HIF-1α Enhances Intestinal Injury and Inflammation in Severe Acute Pancreatitis Through NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation

Background Severe Acute Pancreatitis (SAP) is associated with significant intestinal injury and inflammation. Hypoxia-Inducible Factor-1α (HIF-1α) and NLRP3 inflammasome have been implicated in this process, but their specific roles remain unclear. Objective This study aims to elucidate the roles of HIF-1α and NLRP3 in the pathogenesis of SAP and their effects on intestinal injury, barrier function, and inflammatory responses. Methods A SAP rat model was established, and histological changes were assessed via HE staining. Western blot was used to analyze HIF-1α and NLRP3 expression in intestinal mucosa. The effects of HIF-1α modulation were examined using the activator DMOG and inhibitor BAY87-2243. Immunohistochemistry, ELISA, and TUNEL staining were used to evaluate intestinal barrier function, permeability markers, and apoptosis. Results HIF-1α and NLRP3 expression significantly increased in SAP rats, peaking at 72 h. HIF-1α activation aggravated intestinal injury and barrier dysfunction, decreasing tight junction protein levels and increasing epithelial apoptosis. Enhanced intestinal permeability and elevated pro-inflammatory cytokines were also observed. Furthermore, HIF-1α activation promoted NLRP3 inflammasome assembly, resulting in increased caspase-1 and IL-1β expression. Conclusion HIF-1α exacerbates intestinal injury and inflammation in SAP, likely through NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Targeting HIF-1α may offer a potential therapeutic approach for SAP-induced damage and inflammation.