Vitamins B2 and B3 modulate LPS-induced inflammatory responses in BV2 cells: Effects on TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB related signaling.

Abstract

Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) and nicotinamide (Vitamin B3) are essential micronutrients widely utilized in food fortification, yet their immunomodulatory potential in the central nervous system remains under-explored. This study employed an LPS-induced BV2 microglial model to evaluate the anti-neuroinflammatory mechanisms of these vitamins, aiming to provide a fundamental cellular rationale from a nutritional perspective. Results showed treatment-dependent reductions in NO production and in several pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6), together with enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities (GSH, CAT, and SOD). Mechanistically, VB2 treatment reduced intracellular Ca²⁺ levels, whereas VB3 treatment markedly attenuated ROS accumulation. The combined treatment also attenuated TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB related signaling and reduced multiple inflammatory readouts. These findings characterize the distinct cellular responses to VB2 and VB3 and the anti-neuroinflammatory effects observed under their co-treatment, providing a theoretical basis for future studies of their combined application.