BACKGROUND Cartilage defects are some of the most common causes of arthritis.Cartilage lesions caused by inflammation,trauma or degenerative disease normally result in osteochondral defects.Previous studies have shown...BACKGROUND Cartilage defects are some of the most common causes of arthritis.Cartilage lesions caused by inflammation,trauma or degenerative disease normally result in osteochondral defects.Previous studies have shown that decellularized extracellular matrix(ECM)derived from autologous,allogenic,or xenogeneic mesenchymal stromal cells(MSCs)can effectively restore osteochondral integrity.AIM To determine whether the decellularized ECM of antler reserve mesenchymal cells(RMCs),a xenogeneic material from antler stem cells,is superior to the currently available treatments for osteochondral defects.METHODS We isolated the RMCs from a 60-d-old sika deer antler and cultured them in vitro to 70%confluence;50 mg/mL L-ascorbic acid was then added to the medium to stimulate ECM deposition.Decellularized sheets of adipocyte-derived MSCs(aMSCs)and antlerogenic periosteal cells(another type of antler stem cells)were used as the controls.Three weeks after ascorbic acid stimulation,the ECM sheets were harvested and applied to the osteochondral defects in rat knee joints.RESULTS The defects were successfully repaired by applying the ECM-sheets.The highest quality of repair was achieved in the RMC-ECM group both in vitro(including cell attachment and proliferation),and in vivo(including the simultaneous regeneration of well-vascularized subchondral bone and avascular articular hyaline cartilage integrated with surrounding native tissues).Notably,the antler-stem-cell-derived ECM(xenogeneic)performed better than the aMSC-ECM(allogenic),while the ECM of the active antler stem cells was superior to that of the quiescent antler stem cells.CONCLUSION Decellularized xenogeneic ECM derived from the antler stem cell,particularly the active form(RMC-ECM),can achieve high quality repair/reconstruction of osteochondral defects,suggesting that selection of decellularized ECM for such repair should be focused more on bioactivity rather than kinship.展开更多
In recent years,there has been considerable exploration into methods aimed at enhancing the regenerative capacity of transplanted and/or tissue-resident cells.Biomaterials,in particular,have garnered significant inter...In recent years,there has been considerable exploration into methods aimed at enhancing the regenerative capacity of transplanted and/or tissue-resident cells.Biomaterials,in particular,have garnered significant interest for their potential to serve as natural scaffolds for cells.In this editorial,we provide commentary on the study by Wang et al,in a recently published issue of World J Stem Cells,which investigates the use of a decellularized xenogeneic extracellular matrix(ECM)derived from antler stem cells for repairing osteochondral defects in rat knee joints.Our focus lies specifically on the crucial role of biological scaffolds as a strategy for augmenting stem cell potential and regenerative capabilities,thanks to the establishment of a favorable microenvironment(niche).Stem cell differen-tiation heavily depends on exposure to intrinsic properties of the ECM,including its chemical and protein composition,as well as the mechanical forces it can generate.Collectively,these physicochemical cues contribute to a bio-instructive signaling environment that offers tissue-specific guidance for achieving effective repair and regeneration.The interest in mechanobiology,often conceptualized as a form of“structural memory”,is steadily gaining more validation and momen-tum,especially in light of findings such as these.展开更多
Antler, one of the secondary sex characteristics of male deer, is a highly valued traditional Chinese medicine. The generation and regeneration of deer antler is regulated not only by hormones, but also by nutritional...Antler, one of the secondary sex characteristics of male deer, is a highly valued traditional Chinese medicine. The generation and regeneration of deer antler is regulated not only by hormones, but also by nutritional factors. Nutritional factors have great influences on pedicle generation, first antler generation and antler development. Therefore, this paper summarizes recent advances in the study of the influences of nutritional factors on antler generation and regeneration, analyzes the pathways regulating antler generation and regeneration by nutritional factors, and proposes thai nutritional factors regulale antler regeneralion by direct pathway and indirect pathway.展开更多
Peptides from Pilose antler aqueous extract(PAAE) have been shown to stimulate the proliferation and differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells(BMSCs). However, the underlying molecular mechanisms are not w...Peptides from Pilose antler aqueous extract(PAAE) have been shown to stimulate the proliferation and differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells(BMSCs). However, the underlying molecular mechanisms are not well understood. Here, PAAE was isolated and purified to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying PAAE’s effects on BMSCs as well as its osteoprotective effects in ovariectomized rats. Our results showed that PAAE promoted proliferation and differentiation of BMSCs to become osteoblasts by enhancing ALP activity and increasing extracellular matrix mineralization. The trabecular microarchitecture of ovariectomized rats was also found to be protected by PAAE. Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction(Quantitative RT-PCR) results suggest that PAAE also increased the expression of osteogenic markers including, alkaline phosphatase(ALP), runt-related transcription factor 2(Runx2), osteocalcin(OCN), bone morphogenetic protein-2(BMP-2), and collagen I(COL-I). Immunoblotting results indicated that PAAE upregulated the levels of BMP-2 and Runx2 and was associated with Smad1/5 phosphorylation. PAAE A at the concentration of 200μg·mL^-1 showed the strongest effect on proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs after 48 h. Using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry(MALDI-TOF MS), we identified the molecular weight of PAAE A and found that it is less than 3000 Da and showed several significant peaks. In conclusion, PAAE activates the BMP-2/Smad1, 5/Runx2 pathway to induce osteoblastic differentiation and mineralization in BMSCs and can inhibit OVX-induced bone loss. These mechanisms are likely responsible for its therapeutic effect on postmenopausal osteoporosis.展开更多
Twenty-four-month-old male C57BU6 mice with low serum testosterone levels were used as a late-onset hypogonadism （LOH） animal model for examining the effects of velvet antler polypeptide （VAP） on sexual function a...Twenty-four-month-old male C57BU6 mice with low serum testosterone levels were used as a late-onset hypogonadism （LOH） animal model for examining the effects of velvet antler polypeptide （VAP） on sexual function and testosterone synthesis. These mice received VAP for 5 consecutive weeks by daily gavage at doses of 100, 200, or 300 mg kg-1 body weight per day （n = 10 mice per dose）. Control animals （n = 10） received the same weight-based volume of vehicle. Sexual behavior and testosterone levels in serum and interstitial tissue of testis were measured after the last administration of VAP. Furthermore, to investigate the mechanisms of how VAP affects sexual behavior and testosterone synthesis in vivo, the expression of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein （STAR）, cytochrome P450 cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme （P450scc）, and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase （3βHSD） in Leydig cells was also measured by immunofluorescence staining and quantitative real-time PCR. As a result, VAP produced a significant improvement in the sexual function of these aging male mice. Serum testosterone level and intratesticular testosterone （ITT） concentration also increased in the VAP-treated groups. The expression of STAR, P450scc, and 3β-HSD was also found to be enhanced in the VAP-treated groups compared with the control group. Our results suggested that VAP was effective in improving sexual function in aging male mice. The effect of velvet antler on sexual function was due to the increased expression of several rate-limiting enzymes of testosterone synthesis （STAR, P450scc, and 3β-HSD） and the following promotion of testosterone syothesis in vivo.展开更多
Compared to other vertebrates,the regenerative capacity of appendages in mammals is very limited.Deer antlers are an exception and can fully regenerate annually in postnatal mammals.This process is initiated by the an...Compared to other vertebrates,the regenerative capacity of appendages in mammals is very limited.Deer antlers are an exception and can fully regenerate annually in postnatal mammals.This process is initiated by the antler stem cells(AnSCs).AnSCs can be divided into three types:(1)Antlerogenic periosteum cells(for initial pedicle and first antler formation);(2)Pedicle periosteum cells(for annual antler regeneration);and(3)Reserve mesenchyme cells(RMCs)(for rapid antler growth).Previous studies have demonstrated that AnSCs express both classic mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs)and embryonic stem cells(ESCs),and are able to differentiate into multiple cell types in vitro.Thus,AnSCs were defined as MSCs,but with partial ESC attributes.Near-perfect generative wound healing can naturally occur in deer,and wound healing can be achieved by the direct injection of AnSCs or topical application of conditioned medium of AnSCs in rats.In addition,in rabbits,the use of both implants with AnSCs and cell-free preparations derived from AnSCs can stimulate osteogenesis and repair defects of bone.A more comprehensive understanding of AnSCs will lay the foundation for developing an effective clinical therapy for wound healing and bone repair.展开更多
Supercritical CO2 (SC-CO2) extraction technology and ultrasonic technology were used to extract two active sex hormones, estradiol and progesterone, and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) from antler velvet. The eff...Supercritical CO2 (SC-CO2) extraction technology and ultrasonic technology were used to extract two active sex hormones, estradiol and progesterone, and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) from antler velvet. The effects of SC-CO2 extraction condition on the extraction yield and content of sex hormones, the ultrasonic extrac-tion condition on the content of IGF-1 and the SC-CO2 extraction condition on the activity remaining of IGF-1 were studied. The optimal conditions were obtained. The experimental results showed that, in presence of 75% ethanol as the co-solvent, the mean yield and content of estradiol and progesterone were 87.67 pg·g-1 and 1224.10 pg·g-1, 12.38 ng·g-1 and 354.06 ng·g-1, respectively, with extraction pressure of 30 MPa, temperature of 35°C, extraction time of 30 min and CO2 consumption of 15 L·g-1 at the flow rate of 2.0 L·min-1. The highest content of IGF-1 was 7425.75 ng·g-1 antler velvet residue, when the pH10 ammonia-ammonium chloride buffer solution was used as the solvent, the ratio of solvent to sample was 20/1 (volume/mass), the extraction temperature was 0-35°C, and the ex-traction time was 4×15 min. Under these conditions, 93.68% activity remaining of IGF-1 in the residue was ob-tained, while little IGF-1 activity exists in traditional residue. The experimental results indicate that the technology of SC-CO2 with co-solvent is of advantage for getting high content sexual hormones and keeping high activity of IGF-1 in the residue, which can not be achieved by traditional extraction methods.展开更多
Eighteen sex hormones in antler velvet were determined by high performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry.The solid phase extraction was applied to eliminating the matrix effect.The experimental condit...Eighteen sex hormones in antler velvet were determined by high performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry.The solid phase extraction was applied to eliminating the matrix effect.The experimental conditions were examined and optimized.Under the optimal conditions,the proposed method provides the good linearities and determination limits（0.2―1.0 μg/kg） of the analytes investigated.The recoveries ranging from 72.3% to 149.5% were obtained for the target analytes at two concentration levels.This method was applied to the determination of eighteen sex hormones in different kinds of antler velvet samples and the obtained results are satisfactory.The results indicate that the proposed method is suitable for the determination of sex hormones in antler velvet samples.展开更多
BACKGROUND Scar formation and loss of cutaneous appendages are the greatest challenges in cutaneous wound healing.Previous studies have indicated that antler reserve mesenchyme(RM)cells and their conditioned medium im...BACKGROUND Scar formation and loss of cutaneous appendages are the greatest challenges in cutaneous wound healing.Previous studies have indicated that antler reserve mesenchyme(RM)cells and their conditioned medium improved regenerative wound healing with partial recovery of cutaneous appendages.AIM To develop hydrogels from the antler RM matrix(HARM)and evaluate the effect on wound healing.METHODS We prepared the hydrogels from the HARM via enzymatic solubilization with pepsin.Then we investigated the therapeutic effects of HARM on a full-thickness cutaneous wound healing rat model using both local injections surrounding the wound and topical wound application.RESULTS The results showed that HARM accelerated wound healing rate and reduced scar formation.Also,HARM stimulated the regeneration of cutaneous appendages and blood vessels,and reduced collagen fiber aggregation.Further study showed that these functions might be achieved via creating a fetal-like niche at the wound site.The levels of fetal wound healing-related genes,including Collagen III and TGFβ3 treated with HARM were all increased,while the expression levels of Collagen I,TGFβ1,and Engrailed 1 were decreased in the healing.Moreover,the number of stem cells was increased in the fetal-like niche created by HARM,which may contribute to the regeneration of cutaneous appendages.CONCLUSION Overall,we successfully developed an injectable hydrogel made from antler RM matrix for the regenerative repair of full-thickness cutaneous wounds.We uncovered the molecular mechanism of the hydrogels in promoting regenerative wound healing,and thus pave the way for HARM to be developed for the clinic use.展开更多
Previously we have demonstrated that calcinated antler cancellous bone（CACB） has great potential for bone defect repair,due to its highly similar composition and architecture to natural extracellular bone matrix.Thi...Previously we have demonstrated that calcinated antler cancellous bone（CACB） has great potential for bone defect repair,due to its highly similar composition and architecture to natural extracellular bone matrix.This study is aiming at seeking for an optimal strategy of combined application of CACB and bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells（BMSCs） in bone defect repair.In vitro study demonstrated that CACB promoted the adhesion,spreading and viability of BMSCs.Increased extracellular matrix production and expression of osteogenic markers in BMSCs were observed when seeded on CACB scaffolds.The cells ceased to proliferation in the dual effect of CACB and osteogenic induction at the early stage of incubation.Hence synergistic effect of CACB combined with autologous undifferentiated BMSCs in rabbit mandible critical-sized defect repair was further evaluated.Histological analysis results showed that loading the CACB with autologous BMSCs resulted in enhanced new bone formation and angiogenesis when compared with implanted CACB alone.These findings indicate that the combination of CACB and autologous BMSCs should become potential routes to improve bone repair efficiency展开更多
In 1917 D’Arcy Thompson observed that the pair of antlers of a red deer, a sambur or a wapiti Make up between them a single surface that is more or less spherical or occasionally an ellipsoidal surface. The palmated ...In 1917 D’Arcy Thompson observed that the pair of antlers of a red deer, a sambur or a wapiti Make up between them a single surface that is more or less spherical or occasionally an ellipsoidal surface. The palmated antlers of the moose are explored to provide an exam-ple of how antlers can be instrumental in lowering the threshold sensitivity of hearing.展开更多
OBJECTIVE To explore the therapeutic effects and underlying mechanisms of velvet antler polypeptides(VVAPs)in CCl4-induced experimental hepatic fibrosis in rats.METHODS Anti-hepatic fibrosis properties of VAPs were te...OBJECTIVE To explore the therapeutic effects and underlying mechanisms of velvet antler polypeptides(VVAPs)in CCl4-induced experimental hepatic fibrosis in rats.METHODS Anti-hepatic fibrosis properties of VAPs were tested by Subcutaneous injection(SC)into male Wistar rats of CCl4- induced experimental hepatic fibrosis.After SC injections for 45 consecutive days at doses of 5mg·kg-1(low dose,VAPsL),10mg·kg-1(mid-dose,VAPsM)and 20mg·kg-1(high-dose,VAPsH),the rats were sacrificed and the various indicators were evaluated and tested.Observed hepatic cells degeneration and necrosis,inflammatory infiltration and levels of serum enzymes to assess treatment of VAPs;The expression levels of superoxide dismutase(SOD),glutathione peroxidase(GSH-Px),MDA,and hydroxyproline(HYP)in liver tissue were analyzed;RT-PCR analysis was carried out to detect the expression levels of matrix metalloproteinases2(MMP-2)and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 1(TIMP-1)in liver tissue.RESULTS VAPs has obvious anti-hepatic fibrosis effects.Hepatocyte swelling,fatty degeneration was significantly reduced,reducing infiltration of inflammatory cells.Release of alanine aminotransferase(ALT)and aspartate aminotransferase(AST)decreased significantly,reduction of hyaluronic acid(HA)and laminin(LN)obviously,at the same time,the content of total protein and albumin increased significantly in serum.Activity of SOD and GSH-Px was significantly raised and the content of MDA and HYP was reduced significantly in liver tissue.Expression levels of MMP-2and TIMP-1 mRNA in liver were decreased significantly.These improvements were more significant in high-dos and mid-dose groups(P<0.05 or P<0.01 vs model group).CONCLUSION These findings suggest VAPs can significant treat the hepatic fibrosis,which may be due to protect liver cells and improve liver functions by hydroxyl radical scavenging activity and great effect of antioxidation,and decrease the gene expression of MMP-2,improving exist-environment of liver cells and decreasing the gene expression of TIMP-1,prompting degradation of extracellular matrix.展开更多
ANXA2（AnnexinA2）, a calcium-dependent phospholipid bind- ing protein, is involved in various Ca2＋-related biological activities. In the present study, full-length cDNA of ANXA2 was isolated from the velvet antler t...ANXA2（AnnexinA2）, a calcium-dependent phospholipid bind- ing protein, is involved in various Ca2＋-related biological activities. In the present study, full-length cDNA of ANXA2 was isolated from the velvet antler tip tissue of sika deer （Cervus nippon hortulomm）; the amino acid sequence and gene expression was analyzed by using bioinformatics and real-time reverse transcdptase polymerase chain reaction （RT-PCR） techniques. Nucleotide sequence analysis reveals that the full-length cDNA of the ANXA2 gene was 1372 bp, of which 1020 bp was in the opan-reading frame （OR.F） encoding 339 amino acids; its relative mo- lecular weight was 38.3 kDa; and isoelectrie point was 6.72. Sequence analysis indicates that the protein includes four conserved tan- dem-duplication ANX domains. The gene-aceession nucleotide sequence number in GenBank is JX315571. Expression analysis by RT-PCR re- veals that ANXA2 gene expression has a significant positive correlation with the antler-tissue mineralization process, indicating that this gene may play an important role in the regulation of antler-tissue mineraliza- tion.展开更多
[Objectives]To study the quality standard of Chinese drug in compound Qianglinaogingsu Tablets(Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis and Coru Cervi Pantotrichum).[Methods]The thin layer chromatography(TLC)differentiation meth...[Objectives]To study the quality standard of Chinese drug in compound Qianglinaogingsu Tablets(Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis and Coru Cervi Pantotrichum).[Methods]The thin layer chromatography(TLC)differentiation method was established for Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis and Cornu Cervi Pantotrichum.[Results]TLC spots developed were fairly clear,and the blank test showed no interference.[Conclusions]The method is fast,simple and can be used for quality control of Qianglinaoqingsu Tablets.展开更多
[Objectives]This study was conducted to find out the causes of abnormal antler shedding in Père David s deer(Elaphurus davidianus).[Methods]Abnormally-shed antlers were compared with normally-shed antlers in term...[Objectives]This study was conducted to find out the causes of abnormal antler shedding in Père David s deer(Elaphurus davidianus).[Methods]Abnormally-shed antlers were compared with normally-shed antlers in terms of light condition,antler development and bone nutritional status during the abnormal shedding season in the growth area of Père David s deer.[Results]Abnormally-shed antlers had no significant differences in the development of shed antlers,or even in the overall composition of antlers,from those of normal Père David s deer.[Conclusions]Insufficient light was the main cause of abnormal antler shedding in Père David s deer.展开更多
Kanglu Brand Pilose Antler Nourishing Cream, developed by the Navy Anti-aging Research Institute and the Hainan Fengmu Deer Breeding Farm, is a kind of high-tech nourishing cream. The cream is produced from the fresh ...Kanglu Brand Pilose Antler Nourishing Cream, developed by the Navy Anti-aging Research Institute and the Hainan Fengmu Deer Breeding Farm, is a kind of high-tech nourishing cream. The cream is produced from the fresh pilose antler of younger deer, and contains the quintessence of pilose antlers——the total fat and SOD. The SOD is regarded as the best anti-aging agent展开更多
Deer antlers are the only known mammalian organ that,once lost,can fully grow back naturally.Hence,the antler offers a unique opportunity to learn how nature has solved the problem of mammalian epimorphic regeneration...Deer antlers are the only known mammalian organ that,once lost,can fully grow back naturally.Hence,the antler offers a unique opportunity to learn how nature has solved the problem of mammalian epimorphic regeneration(EpR).Comprehensive comparisons amongst different types of EpR reveal that antler renewal is fundamentally different from that in lower vertebrates such as regeneration of the newt limb.Surprisingly,antler renewal is comparable to wound healing over a stump of regeneration-incompetent digit/limb,bone fracture repair,and to a lesser extent to digit tip regeneration in mammals.Common to all these mammalian cases of reaction to the amputation/mechanical trauma is the response of the periosteal cells at the distal end/injury site with formation of a circumferential cartilaginous callus(CCC).Interestingly,whether the CCC can proceed to the next stage to transform to a blastema fully depends on the presence of an interactive partner.The actual form of the partner can vary in different cases with the nail organ in digit tip EpR,the opposing callus in bone fracture repair,and the closely associated enveloping skin in antler regeneration.Due to absence of such an interactive partner,the CCC of a mouse/rat digit/limb stump becomes involuted gradually.Based on these discoveries,we created an interactive partner for the rat digit/limb stump through surgically removal of the interposing layers of loose connective tissue and muscle between the resultant CCC and the enveloping skin after amputation and by forcefully bonding two tissue types tightly together.In so doing partial regeneration of the limb stump occurred.In summary,if EpR in humans is to be realized,then I envisage that it would be more likely in a manner akin to antler regeneration rather to that of lower vertebrates such as newt limbs.展开更多
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.U20A20403This study was conducted in accordance with the Animal Ethics Committee of the Institute of Antler Science and Product Technology,Changchun Sci-Tech University(AEC No:CKARI202309).
文摘BACKGROUND Cartilage defects are some of the most common causes of arthritis.Cartilage lesions caused by inflammation,trauma or degenerative disease normally result in osteochondral defects.Previous studies have shown that decellularized extracellular matrix(ECM)derived from autologous,allogenic,or xenogeneic mesenchymal stromal cells(MSCs)can effectively restore osteochondral integrity.AIM To determine whether the decellularized ECM of antler reserve mesenchymal cells(RMCs),a xenogeneic material from antler stem cells,is superior to the currently available treatments for osteochondral defects.METHODS We isolated the RMCs from a 60-d-old sika deer antler and cultured them in vitro to 70%confluence;50 mg/mL L-ascorbic acid was then added to the medium to stimulate ECM deposition.Decellularized sheets of adipocyte-derived MSCs(aMSCs)and antlerogenic periosteal cells(another type of antler stem cells)were used as the controls.Three weeks after ascorbic acid stimulation,the ECM sheets were harvested and applied to the osteochondral defects in rat knee joints.RESULTS The defects were successfully repaired by applying the ECM-sheets.The highest quality of repair was achieved in the RMC-ECM group both in vitro(including cell attachment and proliferation),and in vivo(including the simultaneous regeneration of well-vascularized subchondral bone and avascular articular hyaline cartilage integrated with surrounding native tissues).Notably,the antler-stem-cell-derived ECM(xenogeneic)performed better than the aMSC-ECM(allogenic),while the ECM of the active antler stem cells was superior to that of the quiescent antler stem cells.CONCLUSION Decellularized xenogeneic ECM derived from the antler stem cell,particularly the active form(RMC-ECM),can achieve high quality repair/reconstruction of osteochondral defects,suggesting that selection of decellularized ECM for such repair should be focused more on bioactivity rather than kinship.
文摘In recent years,there has been considerable exploration into methods aimed at enhancing the regenerative capacity of transplanted and/or tissue-resident cells.Biomaterials,in particular,have garnered significant interest for their potential to serve as natural scaffolds for cells.In this editorial,we provide commentary on the study by Wang et al,in a recently published issue of World J Stem Cells,which investigates the use of a decellularized xenogeneic extracellular matrix(ECM)derived from antler stem cells for repairing osteochondral defects in rat knee joints.Our focus lies specifically on the crucial role of biological scaffolds as a strategy for augmenting stem cell potential and regenerative capabilities,thanks to the establishment of a favorable microenvironment(niche).Stem cell differen-tiation heavily depends on exposure to intrinsic properties of the ECM,including its chemical and protein composition,as well as the mechanical forces it can generate.Collectively,these physicochemical cues contribute to a bio-instructive signaling environment that offers tissue-specific guidance for achieving effective repair and regeneration.The interest in mechanobiology,often conceptualized as a form of“structural memory”,is steadily gaining more validation and momen-tum,especially in light of findings such as these.
基金Supported by the Science and Technology Innovation Project of Chinese Academy of Agricultural SciencesMajor Science and Technology Project of Jilin Province(20140203018NY)
文摘Antler, one of the secondary sex characteristics of male deer, is a highly valued traditional Chinese medicine. The generation and regeneration of deer antler is regulated not only by hormones, but also by nutritional factors. Nutritional factors have great influences on pedicle generation, first antler generation and antler development. Therefore, this paper summarizes recent advances in the study of the influences of nutritional factors on antler generation and regeneration, analyzes the pathways regulating antler generation and regeneration by nutritional factors, and proposes thai nutritional factors regulale antler regeneralion by direct pathway and indirect pathway.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81473314)
文摘Peptides from Pilose antler aqueous extract(PAAE) have been shown to stimulate the proliferation and differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells(BMSCs). However, the underlying molecular mechanisms are not well understood. Here, PAAE was isolated and purified to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying PAAE’s effects on BMSCs as well as its osteoprotective effects in ovariectomized rats. Our results showed that PAAE promoted proliferation and differentiation of BMSCs to become osteoblasts by enhancing ALP activity and increasing extracellular matrix mineralization. The trabecular microarchitecture of ovariectomized rats was also found to be protected by PAAE. Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction(Quantitative RT-PCR) results suggest that PAAE also increased the expression of osteogenic markers including, alkaline phosphatase(ALP), runt-related transcription factor 2(Runx2), osteocalcin(OCN), bone morphogenetic protein-2(BMP-2), and collagen I(COL-I). Immunoblotting results indicated that PAAE upregulated the levels of BMP-2 and Runx2 and was associated with Smad1/5 phosphorylation. PAAE A at the concentration of 200μg·mL^-1 showed the strongest effect on proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs after 48 h. Using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry(MALDI-TOF MS), we identified the molecular weight of PAAE A and found that it is less than 3000 Da and showed several significant peaks. In conclusion, PAAE activates the BMP-2/Smad1, 5/Runx2 pathway to induce osteoblastic differentiation and mineralization in BMSCs and can inhibit OVX-induced bone loss. These mechanisms are likely responsible for its therapeutic effect on postmenopausal osteoporosis.
基金This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China （No. 81302223） and the Medical Scientific Research Foundation of Guangdong Province, China （B2013104）.
文摘Twenty-four-month-old male C57BU6 mice with low serum testosterone levels were used as a late-onset hypogonadism （LOH） animal model for examining the effects of velvet antler polypeptide （VAP） on sexual function and testosterone synthesis. These mice received VAP for 5 consecutive weeks by daily gavage at doses of 100, 200, or 300 mg kg-1 body weight per day （n = 10 mice per dose）. Control animals （n = 10） received the same weight-based volume of vehicle. Sexual behavior and testosterone levels in serum and interstitial tissue of testis were measured after the last administration of VAP. Furthermore, to investigate the mechanisms of how VAP affects sexual behavior and testosterone synthesis in vivo, the expression of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein （STAR）, cytochrome P450 cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme （P450scc）, and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase （3βHSD） in Leydig cells was also measured by immunofluorescence staining and quantitative real-time PCR. As a result, VAP produced a significant improvement in the sexual function of these aging male mice. Serum testosterone level and intratesticular testosterone （ITT） concentration also increased in the VAP-treated groups. The expression of STAR, P450scc, and 3β-HSD was also found to be enhanced in the VAP-treated groups compared with the control group. Our results suggested that VAP was effective in improving sexual function in aging male mice. The effect of velvet antler on sexual function was due to the increased expression of several rate-limiting enzymes of testosterone synthesis （STAR, P450scc, and 3β-HSD） and the following promotion of testosterone syothesis in vivo.
文摘Compared to other vertebrates,the regenerative capacity of appendages in mammals is very limited.Deer antlers are an exception and can fully regenerate annually in postnatal mammals.This process is initiated by the antler stem cells(AnSCs).AnSCs can be divided into three types:(1)Antlerogenic periosteum cells(for initial pedicle and first antler formation);(2)Pedicle periosteum cells(for annual antler regeneration);and(3)Reserve mesenchyme cells(RMCs)(for rapid antler growth).Previous studies have demonstrated that AnSCs express both classic mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs)and embryonic stem cells(ESCs),and are able to differentiate into multiple cell types in vitro.Thus,AnSCs were defined as MSCs,but with partial ESC attributes.Near-perfect generative wound healing can naturally occur in deer,and wound healing can be achieved by the direct injection of AnSCs or topical application of conditioned medium of AnSCs in rats.In addition,in rabbits,the use of both implants with AnSCs and cell-free preparations derived from AnSCs can stimulate osteogenesis and repair defects of bone.A more comprehensive understanding of AnSCs will lay the foundation for developing an effective clinical therapy for wound healing and bone repair.
基金Supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Tianjin (06YFJMJC10500)
文摘Supercritical CO2 (SC-CO2) extraction technology and ultrasonic technology were used to extract two active sex hormones, estradiol and progesterone, and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) from antler velvet. The effects of SC-CO2 extraction condition on the extraction yield and content of sex hormones, the ultrasonic extrac-tion condition on the content of IGF-1 and the SC-CO2 extraction condition on the activity remaining of IGF-1 were studied. The optimal conditions were obtained. The experimental results showed that, in presence of 75% ethanol as the co-solvent, the mean yield and content of estradiol and progesterone were 87.67 pg·g-1 and 1224.10 pg·g-1, 12.38 ng·g-1 and 354.06 ng·g-1, respectively, with extraction pressure of 30 MPa, temperature of 35°C, extraction time of 30 min and CO2 consumption of 15 L·g-1 at the flow rate of 2.0 L·min-1. The highest content of IGF-1 was 7425.75 ng·g-1 antler velvet residue, when the pH10 ammonia-ammonium chloride buffer solution was used as the solvent, the ratio of solvent to sample was 20/1 (volume/mass), the extraction temperature was 0-35°C, and the ex-traction time was 4×15 min. Under these conditions, 93.68% activity remaining of IGF-1 in the residue was ob-tained, while little IGF-1 activity exists in traditional residue. The experimental results indicate that the technology of SC-CO2 with co-solvent is of advantage for getting high content sexual hormones and keeping high activity of IGF-1 in the residue, which can not be achieved by traditional extraction methods.
基金Supported by the Projects of the General Administration of Quality Supervision,Inspection and Quarantine of China(No.2007IK157)
文摘Eighteen sex hormones in antler velvet were determined by high performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry.The solid phase extraction was applied to eliminating the matrix effect.The experimental conditions were examined and optimized.Under the optimal conditions,the proposed method provides the good linearities and determination limits（0.2―1.0 μg/kg） of the analytes investigated.The recoveries ranging from 72.3% to 149.5% were obtained for the target analytes at two concentration levels.This method was applied to the determination of eighteen sex hormones in different kinds of antler velvet samples and the obtained results are satisfactory.The results indicate that the proposed method is suitable for the determination of sex hormones in antler velvet samples.
基金Supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Jilin Province,No.YDZJ202301ZYTS508National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.U20A20403+2 种基金Doctoral Research Start-Up Fund of Changchun Sci-Tech University,No.202303Young Scientific and Technological Talents Support Project of Jilin Province,No.QT202203Strategic Research and Consulting Project of Chinese Academy of Engineering,No.JL2022-05.
文摘BACKGROUND Scar formation and loss of cutaneous appendages are the greatest challenges in cutaneous wound healing.Previous studies have indicated that antler reserve mesenchyme(RM)cells and their conditioned medium improved regenerative wound healing with partial recovery of cutaneous appendages.AIM To develop hydrogels from the antler RM matrix(HARM)and evaluate the effect on wound healing.METHODS We prepared the hydrogels from the HARM via enzymatic solubilization with pepsin.Then we investigated the therapeutic effects of HARM on a full-thickness cutaneous wound healing rat model using both local injections surrounding the wound and topical wound application.RESULTS The results showed that HARM accelerated wound healing rate and reduced scar formation.Also,HARM stimulated the regeneration of cutaneous appendages and blood vessels,and reduced collagen fiber aggregation.Further study showed that these functions might be achieved via creating a fetal-like niche at the wound site.The levels of fetal wound healing-related genes,including Collagen III and TGFβ3 treated with HARM were all increased,while the expression levels of Collagen I,TGFβ1,and Engrailed 1 were decreased in the healing.Moreover,the number of stem cells was increased in the fetal-like niche created by HARM,which may contribute to the regeneration of cutaneous appendages.CONCLUSION Overall,we successfully developed an injectable hydrogel made from antler RM matrix for the regenerative repair of full-thickness cutaneous wounds.We uncovered the molecular mechanism of the hydrogels in promoting regenerative wound healing,and thus pave the way for HARM to be developed for the clinic use.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.81425007,51502006)the National High-tech R&D Program of China(No.2015AA033601)Beijing Municipal Science & Technology Commission Projects(No. Z161100000116033)
文摘Previously we have demonstrated that calcinated antler cancellous bone（CACB） has great potential for bone defect repair,due to its highly similar composition and architecture to natural extracellular bone matrix.This study is aiming at seeking for an optimal strategy of combined application of CACB and bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells（BMSCs） in bone defect repair.In vitro study demonstrated that CACB promoted the adhesion,spreading and viability of BMSCs.Increased extracellular matrix production and expression of osteogenic markers in BMSCs were observed when seeded on CACB scaffolds.The cells ceased to proliferation in the dual effect of CACB and osteogenic induction at the early stage of incubation.Hence synergistic effect of CACB combined with autologous undifferentiated BMSCs in rabbit mandible critical-sized defect repair was further evaluated.Histological analysis results showed that loading the CACB with autologous BMSCs resulted in enhanced new bone formation and angiogenesis when compared with implanted CACB alone.These findings indicate that the combination of CACB and autologous BMSCs should become potential routes to improve bone repair efficiency
文摘In 1917 D’Arcy Thompson observed that the pair of antlers of a red deer, a sambur or a wapiti Make up between them a single surface that is more or less spherical or occasionally an ellipsoidal surface. The palmated antlers of the moose are explored to provide an exam-ple of how antlers can be instrumental in lowering the threshold sensitivity of hearing.
基金The project supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(U1204826)
文摘OBJECTIVE To explore the therapeutic effects and underlying mechanisms of velvet antler polypeptides(VVAPs)in CCl4-induced experimental hepatic fibrosis in rats.METHODS Anti-hepatic fibrosis properties of VAPs were tested by Subcutaneous injection(SC)into male Wistar rats of CCl4- induced experimental hepatic fibrosis.After SC injections for 45 consecutive days at doses of 5mg·kg-1(low dose,VAPsL),10mg·kg-1(mid-dose,VAPsM)and 20mg·kg-1(high-dose,VAPsH),the rats were sacrificed and the various indicators were evaluated and tested.Observed hepatic cells degeneration and necrosis,inflammatory infiltration and levels of serum enzymes to assess treatment of VAPs;The expression levels of superoxide dismutase(SOD),glutathione peroxidase(GSH-Px),MDA,and hydroxyproline(HYP)in liver tissue were analyzed;RT-PCR analysis was carried out to detect the expression levels of matrix metalloproteinases2(MMP-2)and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 1(TIMP-1)in liver tissue.RESULTS VAPs has obvious anti-hepatic fibrosis effects.Hepatocyte swelling,fatty degeneration was significantly reduced,reducing infiltration of inflammatory cells.Release of alanine aminotransferase(ALT)and aspartate aminotransferase(AST)decreased significantly,reduction of hyaluronic acid(HA)and laminin(LN)obviously,at the same time,the content of total protein and albumin increased significantly in serum.Activity of SOD and GSH-Px was significantly raised and the content of MDA and HYP was reduced significantly in liver tissue.Expression levels of MMP-2and TIMP-1 mRNA in liver were decreased significantly.These improvements were more significant in high-dos and mid-dose groups(P<0.05 or P<0.01 vs model group).CONCLUSION These findings suggest VAPs can significant treat the hepatic fibrosis,which may be due to protect liver cells and improve liver functions by hydroxyl radical scavenging activity and great effect of antioxidation,and decrease the gene expression of MMP-2,improving exist-environment of liver cells and decreasing the gene expression of TIMP-1,prompting degradation of extracellular matrix.
基金funded by the General Program of the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31271324)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(2572014EA05-03)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(DL10BA08)
文摘ANXA2（AnnexinA2）, a calcium-dependent phospholipid bind- ing protein, is involved in various Ca2＋-related biological activities. In the present study, full-length cDNA of ANXA2 was isolated from the velvet antler tip tissue of sika deer （Cervus nippon hortulomm）; the amino acid sequence and gene expression was analyzed by using bioinformatics and real-time reverse transcdptase polymerase chain reaction （RT-PCR） techniques. Nucleotide sequence analysis reveals that the full-length cDNA of the ANXA2 gene was 1372 bp, of which 1020 bp was in the opan-reading frame （OR.F） encoding 339 amino acids; its relative mo- lecular weight was 38.3 kDa; and isoelectrie point was 6.72. Sequence analysis indicates that the protein includes four conserved tan- dem-duplication ANX domains. The gene-aceession nucleotide sequence number in GenBank is JX315571. Expression analysis by RT-PCR re- veals that ANXA2 gene expression has a significant positive correlation with the antler-tissue mineralization process, indicating that this gene may play an important role in the regulation of antler-tissue mineraliza- tion.
基金Chinese Pharmacopoeia Commission Drug Standardization Research Project(2019Z061).
文摘[Objectives]To study the quality standard of Chinese drug in compound Qianglinaogingsu Tablets(Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis and Coru Cervi Pantotrichum).[Methods]The thin layer chromatography(TLC)differentiation method was established for Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis and Cornu Cervi Pantotrichum.[Results]TLC spots developed were fairly clear,and the blank test showed no interference.[Conclusions]The method is fast,simple and can be used for quality control of Qianglinaoqingsu Tablets.
基金Supported by Science and Technology Research Project of Hubei Provincial Department of Education (B2018522).
文摘[Objectives]This study was conducted to find out the causes of abnormal antler shedding in Père David s deer(Elaphurus davidianus).[Methods]Abnormally-shed antlers were compared with normally-shed antlers in terms of light condition,antler development and bone nutritional status during the abnormal shedding season in the growth area of Père David s deer.[Results]Abnormally-shed antlers had no significant differences in the development of shed antlers,or even in the overall composition of antlers,from those of normal Père David s deer.[Conclusions]Insufficient light was the main cause of abnormal antler shedding in Père David s deer.
文摘Kanglu Brand Pilose Antler Nourishing Cream, developed by the Navy Anti-aging Research Institute and the Hainan Fengmu Deer Breeding Farm, is a kind of high-tech nourishing cream. The cream is produced from the fresh pilose antler of younger deer, and contains the quintessence of pilose antlers——the total fat and SOD. The SOD is regarded as the best anti-aging agent
基金supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(Regional Joint Funds,No.U20A20403).
文摘Deer antlers are the only known mammalian organ that,once lost,can fully grow back naturally.Hence,the antler offers a unique opportunity to learn how nature has solved the problem of mammalian epimorphic regeneration(EpR).Comprehensive comparisons amongst different types of EpR reveal that antler renewal is fundamentally different from that in lower vertebrates such as regeneration of the newt limb.Surprisingly,antler renewal is comparable to wound healing over a stump of regeneration-incompetent digit/limb,bone fracture repair,and to a lesser extent to digit tip regeneration in mammals.Common to all these mammalian cases of reaction to the amputation/mechanical trauma is the response of the periosteal cells at the distal end/injury site with formation of a circumferential cartilaginous callus(CCC).Interestingly,whether the CCC can proceed to the next stage to transform to a blastema fully depends on the presence of an interactive partner.The actual form of the partner can vary in different cases with the nail organ in digit tip EpR,the opposing callus in bone fracture repair,and the closely associated enveloping skin in antler regeneration.Due to absence of such an interactive partner,the CCC of a mouse/rat digit/limb stump becomes involuted gradually.Based on these discoveries,we created an interactive partner for the rat digit/limb stump through surgically removal of the interposing layers of loose connective tissue and muscle between the resultant CCC and the enveloping skin after amputation and by forcefully bonding two tissue types tightly together.In so doing partial regeneration of the limb stump occurred.In summary,if EpR in humans is to be realized,then I envisage that it would be more likely in a manner akin to antler regeneration rather to that of lower vertebrates such as newt limbs.
