Panaxadiol acts as an HIF-1α inhibitor to suppress H9N2-induced inflammation

The H9N2 avian influenza virus (AIV) represents a considerable threat to both poultry industries and public health, not only due to its widespread prevalence but also because of its potential to facilitate the emergence of more virulent influenza strains through genetic reassortment. Recent studies have highlighted the pivotal role of hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF-1α) in viral pathogenesis, immune modulation, and the regulation of inflammatory responses, positioning it as a promising target for antiviral strategies. In this study, we identified that HIF-1α actively contributes to the inflammatory response triggered by H9N2 AIV infection in MH-S cells. Notably, silencing HIF-1α led to reduced morbidity and mortality in infected mouse models, underscoring its involvement in disease progression. Furthermore, we explored the anti-inflammatory potential of Panaxadiol, an potent HIF-1α inhibitor, against H9N2-induced pathology. In vitro, Panaxadiol treatment markedly diminished the production of key pro-inflammatory cytokines, including IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α, by attenuating HIF-1α signaling. Moreover, Panaxadiol mitigates the cGAS-STING signaling activation through suppressing HIF-1α. Additionally, in vivo administration of Panaxadiol alleviated clinical symptoms and lung inflammation in H9N2-infected mice, while simultaneously enhancing alveolar epithelial regeneration, as evidenced by the upregulation of alveolar type II (ATII) cell markers, Abca3 and Sftpb. Collectively, these findings support Panaxadiol as a promising candidate for controlling influenza-associated inflammation and promoting lung repair.