Colchicine
Colchicine is a medication primarily used to treat and prevent gout flares and familial Mediterranean fever. It reduces inflammation through several key molecular pathways and mechanisms: Microtubule Disruption: Colchicine binds to tubulin, a protein that forms microtubules, and prevents its polymerization into microtubules. This disrupts the cytoskeleton of cells, affecting their ability to move and function properly. In inflammatory cells, particularly neutrophils, this disruption inhibits their ability to migrate to sites of inflammation. Inhibition of Neutrophil Activation: By impairing microtubule formation, colchicine reduces the activation, mobility, and degranulation of neutrophils. Neutrophils are key players in the inflammatory response, and their reduced activity diminishes the release of pro-inflammatory substances like lysosomal enzymes and reactive oxygen species. Reduction of Cytokine Production: Colchicine interferes with the production of pro-inflammatory cytokin...