Objectives:This study aimed to determine the role and mechanism underlying migration and invasion inhibitory protein(MIIP)modulation in M2 macrophages within the tumor microenvironment and the potential of targeting t...Objectives:This study aimed to determine the role and mechanism underlying migration and invasion inhibitory protein(MIIP)modulation in M2 macrophages within the tumor microenvironment and the potential of targeting the MIIP-stimulator of interferon genes(STING)pathway in colorectal cancer(CRC)therapy.Methods:MIIP expression was analyzed for associations with the STING pathway and M2 macrophage infiltration using public datasets and clinical CRC samples.CRC cells were genetically modified using lentiviral vectors to overexpress or silence MIIP and STING.The interactions of genetically modified CRC cells with macrophages were studied in co-culture systems.Techniques,including immunofluorescence staining,RT‒qPCR,western blot,ELISA,flow cytometry,and Transwell migration and invasion assays,were used to evaluate the crosstalk between CRC cells and macrophages.An orthotopic mouse CRC model was developed to study the effects of MIIP on M2 macrophage polarization and tumor metastasis through the STING-NFκB2-IL10 axis.The therapeutic significance of a STING antagonist was also assessed in vivo.Results:Analyses of The Cancer Genome Atlas(TCGA)cohort and our CRC cohort revealed low MIIP expression is associated with STING pathway activation,increased M2 macrophage infiltration,and poor clinical outcomes.The results of functional experiments demonstrated that MIIP inhibits IL10 production via the STING-TRAF3-NFκB2 axis in CRC cells,suppressing M2 macrophage polarization in co-culture systems.Conversely,M2 macrophages promoted CRC cell migration and invasion in an IL10-dependent manner.In vitro and in vivo studies confirmed that the MIIP-mediated feedback loop between CRC cells and macrophages depends on the STING-NFκB2-IL10 axis.Furthermore,inhibition of STING expression in a mouse model reduced M2 macrophage polarization and tumor metastasis.Conclusions:This study established MIIP as a crucial regulator of macrophage polarization in the CRC tumor microenvironment,providing new insights into the role in suppressing CRC progression and immune-tumor crosstalk.These findings highlight the potential of targeting the STING pathway as a therapeutic strategy for CRC patients who respond poorly to immune checkpoint inhibitors.展开更多
Background:Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)is an aggressive and lethal malignancy.Metabolic reprogramming dynamically remodels the tumor microenvironment(TME)and drives HCC progression.This study investigated the mechani...Background:Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)is an aggressive and lethal malignancy.Metabolic reprogramming dynamically remodels the tumor microenvironment(TME)and drives HCC progression.This study investigated the mechanism through which metabolic reprogramming remodels the TME in HCC.Methods:HCC patient transcriptome data were subjected to bioinformatics analysis to identify differentially expressed genes and immune infiltration status.Immunohistochemical analysis was performed to determine the correlation between succinate dehydrogenase complex subunit A(SDHA)expression and M2 macrophage infiltration.SDHA-knockdown or SDHA-overexpressing HCC cells were used for in vitro experiments,including co-culturing,flow cytometry,and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.Western blotting assay,functional assays,and subcutaneous tumor model mice were used to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying succinate-mediated HCC cell-macrophage interactions in the TME.Results:Higher infiltration of M2 macrophages correlated with worse prognosis in HCC patients.SDHA was downregulated in HCC tumor tissues and showed a negative correlation with M2 macrophage infiltration.SDHA knockdown promoted M2 macrophage polarization,whereas SDHA overexpression reversed this effect.Mechanistically,SDHA deficiency in HCC cells induced succinate accumulation,which promoted M2 macrophage polarization by activating the G protein-coupled receptor 91(GPR91)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3(STAT3)pathway.Concurrently,succinate stimulation enhanced mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation in M2 macrophages,thereby promoting HCC progression.Serum succinate levels were elevated in HCC patients.The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis indicated that serum succinate is a promising diagnostic marker for HCC(area under the curve=0.815).Conclusion:SDHA deficiency leads to succinate accumulation,which promotes M2 macrophage polarization through the GPR91/STAT3 pathway,thereby facilitating HCC progression.Based on these findings,serum succinate could be a promising diagnostic biomarker for HCC.展开更多
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)is one of the most aggressive tumors worldwide.Chronic inflammation contributes to tumor evolution,and the infiltration of tumor-associated macrophages(TAMs),also known as M2-li...BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)is one of the most aggressive tumors worldwide.Chronic inflammation contributes to tumor evolution,and the infiltration of tumor-associated macrophages(TAMs),also known as M2-like macrophages,is associated with the most aggressive behavior.Therefore,these macrophages provide the primary growth and migratory factors to the tumor cells,including those of HCC.Current therapies are not well optimized for eliminating trans-formed cells or neutralizing the tumor immune microenvironment leukocytes,such as TAMs.Growth differentiation factor 11(GDF11)may represent a promi-sing dual therapeutic target due to its reported anti-tumorigenic and immuno-modulatory properties.AIM To characterize the effects of GDF11 in M2-like macrophages and the HCC cell interaction using a functional in vitro model.METHODS This research used THP-1 and Huh7 cell lines.We applied recombinant GDF11(50 ng/mL)every 24 hours on THP-1 differentiated macrophages with M2-like polarization using interleukin-4 and interleukin-13.Firstly,the GDF11 effects on signaling,viability,proliferation,metabolism,and redox state in macrophages were charac-terized.Subsequently,we extracted conditioned media(CM)from macrophages and performed indirect co-cultures with Huh7 cells.The functional parameters were proliferation and migration assays.Finally,we charac-terized secretion in the CM using the cytokine array membrane assay.RESULTS The present study demonstrated that GDF11 activates the canonical pathway Smad2/3 without cytotoxic or prolif-erative effects.We provide evidence that GDF11 also diminishes the pro-tumoral properties of M2-like macrophages.GDF11 promoted the reduction of the M2-like macrophage marker,cluster of differentiation 206,indicating a loss of pro-tumoral properties in these leukocytes.Furthermore,this molecule induced changes in metabolism and an increase in reactive oxygen species.Using CM derived from GDF11-treated M2-like macrophages,we observed a reduction in the proliferation and migratory capacity of liver cancer cells.Moreover,the cytokine profile was affected by GDF11 stimulus,demonstrating that this molecule alters the pro-tumoral properties of TAMs,which in turn impact the behavior of HCC-derived cells.CONCLUSION This in vitro study suggests that mitigating tumor-promoting or M2-like macrophages with GDF11 may be an effective strategy for controlling the aggressiveness of HCC.展开更多
Objective miR-34c-3p is down-regulated in nasopharyngeal carcinoma(NPC).The biological role of miR-34c-3p in NPC and its underlying mechanisms are unknown and were explored in this study.Methods Flow cytometry and imm...Objective miR-34c-3p is down-regulated in nasopharyngeal carcinoma(NPC).The biological role of miR-34c-3p in NPC and its underlying mechanisms are unknown and were explored in this study.Methods Flow cytometry and immunohistochemical staining were employed to detect cluster of differentiation 86(CD86)and cluster of differentiation 206(CD206)expression;quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(qRT-PCR)and western blotting were employed to examine mRNA expression and protein levels;cell counting kit-8(CCK8)and transwell assays were employed to assess cell proliferation,migration,and invasion;and hematoxylin-eosin(HE)staining was employed to assess pathological changes in tumor tissues.Results Our results revealed that the miR-34c-3p mimic markedly inhibited M2 polarization of macrophages by targeting SLC7A11,and M2 macrophages transfected with the miR-34c-3p mimic inhibited the proliferation,migration,and invasion of NPC cells.The in vivo experiments further confirmed that miR-34c-3p mimics blocked tumor growth and reduced inflammatory infiltration in tumor tissues.Conclusion This study provides novel insights into the pathogenesis of NPC and a new treatment strategy.展开更多
BACKGROUND Mesenchymal stem cells,found in various tissues,possess significant healing and immunomodulatory properties,influencing macrophage polarization,which is essential for wound repair.However,chronic wounds pre...BACKGROUND Mesenchymal stem cells,found in various tissues,possess significant healing and immunomodulatory properties,influencing macrophage polarization,which is essential for wound repair.However,chronic wounds present significant therapeutic challenges,requiring novel strategies to improve healing outcomes.AIM To investigate the potential of fetal dermal mesenchymal stem cells(FDMSCs)in enhancing wound healing through modulation of macrophage polarization,specifically by promoting the M2 phenotype to address inflammatory responses in chronic wounds.METHODS FDMSCs were isolated from BalB/C mice and co-cultured with RAW264.7 macrophages to assess their effects on macrophage polarization.Flow cytometry,quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction,and histological analyses were employed to evaluate shifts in macrophage phenotype and wound healing in a mouse model.Statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism.RESULTS FDMSCs induced macrophage polarization from the M1 to M2 phenotype,as demonstrated by a reduction in proinflammatory markers(inducible nitric oxide synthase,interleukin-6)and an increase in anti-inflammatory markers[mannose receptor(CD206),arginase-1]in co-cultured RAW264.7 macrophages.These shifts were confirmed by flow cytometry.In an acute skin wound model,FDMSC-treated mice exhibited faster wound healing,enhanced collagen deposition,and improved vascular regeneration compared to controls.Significantly higher expression of arginase-1 further indicated an enriched M2 macrophage environment.CONCLUSION FDMSCs effectively modulate macrophage polarization from M1 to M2,reduce inflammation,and enhance tissue repair,demonstrating their potential as an immunomodulatory strategy in wound healing.These findings highlight the promising therapeutic application of FDMSCs in managing chronic wounds.展开更多
Objective:Aloin,the main active component in Aloe vera(L.)Burm.f.,has shown promising anti-tumor effects.This study investigated the impact of aloin in lung squamous cell carcinoma(LUSC)and explored its functional mec...Objective:Aloin,the main active component in Aloe vera(L.)Burm.f.,has shown promising anti-tumor effects.This study investigated the impact of aloin in lung squamous cell carcinoma(LUSC)and explored its functional mechanism.Methods:We analyzed the viability,migration,invasion,proliferation,and apoptosis of two LUSC cell lines after treatment with aloin.Target molecules of aloin and downstream target transcripts of nuclear receptor subfamily 3 group C member 2(NR3C2)were predicted by bioinformatics.The biological functions of NR3C2 and metallothionein 1M(MT1M)in the malignant properties of LUSC cells were determined.A co-culture system of LUSC cells with monocyte-derived macrophages was constructed.Mouse xenograft tumor models were generated to analyze the functions of aloin and NR3C2 in the tumorigenic activity of LUSC cells and macrophage polarization in vivo.Results:Aloin suppressed malignant properties of LUSC cells in vitro.However,these effects were negated by the silencing of NR3C2.NR3C2 was found to activate MT1M transcription by binding to its promoter.Additional upregulation of MT1M suppressed the malignant behavior of LUSC cells augmented by NR3C2 silencing.Analysis of the M1 and M2 markers/cytokines in the macrophages or the culture supernatant revealed that aloin treatment or MT1M overexpression in LUSC cells enhanced M1 polarization while suppressing M2 polarization of macrophages,whereas NR3C2 silencing led to reverse trends.Consistent findings were reproduced in vivo.Conclusion:This study demonstrated that aloin activates the NR3C2/MT1M axis to suppress the malignant behavior of LUSC cells and M2 macrophage polarization.Please cite this article as:Chen YN,Lu JY,Gao CF,Fang ZR,Zhou Y.Aloin blocks the malignant behavior of lung squamous cell carcinoma cells and M2 macrophage polarization by modulating the NR3C2/MT1M axis.展开更多
BACKGROUNDMultiple exosomal microRNAs were reported to have a significant role incolorectal cancer (CRC) cells. The function and mechanism of exosomal miR-191in CRC have not been clearly elucidated.AIMTo explore the r...BACKGROUNDMultiple exosomal microRNAs were reported to have a significant role incolorectal cancer (CRC) cells. The function and mechanism of exosomal miR-191in CRC have not been clearly elucidated.AIMTo explore the roles of miR-191 in CRC.METHODSSupernatant exosomes from CRC cells were extracted and identified. After coculture,macrophage polarization was determined using flow cytometry for themarkers cluster of differentiation (CD) 68 and CD163, enzyme-linked immunosorbentassay for the cytokines interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-10, western blotting forchitinase-like protein 3 and arginase-1 expression, and immunofluorescentstaining for 1,1’-dioctadecyl-3,3,3’,3’-tetramethylindocarbocyanine perchlorate.Reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, ferroptosis-related proteins (SLC7A11 andGPX4), and apoptosis were determined with flow cytometry, western blotting,and TUNEL staining. We performed in vivo experiments to determine the functionof exosomal miR-191 and M2 macrophage polarization.RESULTSWe successfully isolated exosomes from CRC cells. Inhibition of miR-191 in CRCcells suppressed M2 polarization of macrophages. After coculture of macrophages,inhibition of miR-191 induced ROS production, ferroptosis, and apoptosisof CRC cells. Silencing of exosomal miR-191 from CRC cells prevented M2polarization of macrophages, and weakened CRC development by inducingferroptosis. Exosomal miR-191 accelerated cancer progression in CRC nude miceby promoting M2 polarization of macrophages. CONCLUSIONInhibition of exosomal miR-191 attenuated CRC progression by inducing ferroptosis in macrophages. This studyrevealed a novel mechanism by which exosomal miR-191 modulates the tumor microenvironment.展开更多
Metabolic reprogramming reshapes the tumor microenvironment(TME)and facilitates metastasis,but its molecular mechanisms remain incompletely understood.Here,we identified enolase 2(ENO2),a critical glycolytic enzyme,as...Metabolic reprogramming reshapes the tumor microenvironment(TME)and facilitates metastasis,but its molecular mechanisms remain incompletely understood.Here,we identified enolase 2(ENO2),a critical glycolytic enzyme,as being associated with lymphatic metastasis in head and neck squamous cell carci-noma(HNSCC).Mechanistically,phosphoenolpyruvate(PEP),the metabolite secreted by ENO2-expressing HNSCC cells,drove histone H3 lysine 18 lactylation(H3K18la)-mediated M2 polarization in macrophages,which,in turn,enhanced the epithelial-mesenchymal transition(EMT)and invasiveness of HNSCC cells.Pharmacological inhibition of ENO2 with POMHEX effectively reversed M2 macrophage polarization and inhibited HNSCC lymphatic metastasis.Collectively,our findings underscore the prog-nostic significance of ENO2 and highlight its potential as a therapeutic target for metastatic HNSCC.Furthermore,we reveal a previously underappreciated role of PEP in modulating the tumor immune microenvironment and tumor metastasis via epigenetic modification.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:To investigate the impact of Shenhua tablet(肾华片,SHT)on renal macrophage polarization and renal injury in mice with diabetic kidney disease(DKD)and to explore the potential mechanism involving the hypoxia-...OBJECTIVE:To investigate the impact of Shenhua tablet(肾华片,SHT)on renal macrophage polarization and renal injury in mice with diabetic kidney disease(DKD)and to explore the potential mechanism involving the hypoxia-inducible factor-1α(HIF-1α)and pyruvate kinase M2(PKM2)signaling pathway,along with the glycolysis metabolism pathway.METHODS:The animals were divided into the following groups:Model,Control,dapagliflozin,SHT low-dose,SHT medium-dose,and SHT high-dose.We assessed 24-hour urine protein(24 h-UTP)levels,urinary albuminto-creatinine ratio,and regularly monitored fasting blood glucose during the treatment period.After treatment,we examined renal tissue structure,renal function(urea nitrogen,uric acid,creatinine,cystatin C,β2-microglobulin),and glycolysis in renal macrophages.Additionally,we observed macrophage polarization in renal tissue and measured inflammatory factors(tumor necrosis factor-α,interleukin-1β,interleukin-6,interleukin-10,monocyte chemoattractant protein-1)to assess the immunoinflammatory status of the renal tissue.Finally,we investigated the expression of the HIF-1α/PKM2 signaling pathway in macrophages to explore its role in the glycolysis process.RESULTS:SHT shows a beneficial effect in treating DKD by reducing 24 h-UTP,regulating blood glucose levels,improving renal tissue structure,protecting renal function,inhibiting macrophage glycolysis,reducing macrophage transformation to the M1 state,and suppressing the expression of the HIF-1α/PKM2 signaling pathway.CONCLUSION:SHT may exert renoprotective effects by inhibiting macrophage glycolysis via the HIF-1α/PKM2 signaling pathway.This inhibition decreases macrophage M1 polarization and reduces immunoinflammatory injury in the renal tissue of DKD mice.展开更多
Ulcerative colitis(UC)is a chronic and non-specific inflammatory bowel disease(IBD).Huanglian Ganjiang decoction(HGD),derived from ancient book Beiji Qianjin Yao Fang,has demonstrated efficacy in treating UC patients ...Ulcerative colitis(UC)is a chronic and non-specific inflammatory bowel disease(IBD).Huanglian Ganjiang decoction(HGD),derived from ancient book Beiji Qianjin Yao Fang,has demonstrated efficacy in treating UC patients traditionally.Previous research established that the compatibility of cold herb Coptidis Rhizoma+Phellodendri Chinensis Cortex(CP)and hot herb Angelicae Sinensis Radix+Zingiberis Rhizoma(AZ)in HGD synergistically improved colitis mice.This study investigated the compatibility mechanisms through which CP and AZ regulated inflammatory balance in colitis mice.The experimental colitis model was established by administering 3%dextran sulphate sodium(DSS)to mice for 7 days,followed by CP,AZ and CPAZ treatment for an additional 7 days.M1/M2 macrophage polarization levels,glucose metabolites levels and pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4(PDK4)expression were analyzed using flow cytometry,Western blot,immunofluorescence and targeted glucose metabolomics.The findings indicated that CP inhibited M1 macrophage polarization,decreased inflammatory metabolites associated with tricarboxylic acid(TCA)cycle,and suppressed PDK4 expression and pyruvate dehydrogenase(PDH)(Ser-293)phosphorylation level.AZ enhanced M2 macrophage polarization,increased lactate axis metabolite lactate levels,and upregulated PDK4 expression and PDH(Ser-293)phosphorylation level.TCA cycle blocker AG-221 and adeno-associated virus(AAV)-PDK4 partially negated CP’s inhibition of M1 macrophage polarization.Lactate axis antagonist oxamate and PDK4 inhibitor dichloroacetate(DCA)partially reduced AZ’s activation of M2 macrophage polarization.In conclusion,the compatibility of CP and AZ synergistically alleviated colitis in mice through M1/M2 macrophage polarization balance via PDK4-mediated glucose metabolism reprogramming.Specifically,CP reduced M1 macrophage polarization by restoration of TCA cycle via PDK4 inhibition,while AZ increased M2 macrophage polarization through activation of PDK4/lactate axis.展开更多
Chronic,unresolved inflammation correlates with persistent hepatic injury and fibrosis,ultimately progressing to hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).Bisdemethoxycurcumin(BDMC)demonstrates therapeutic potential against HCC,y...Chronic,unresolved inflammation correlates with persistent hepatic injury and fibrosis,ultimately progressing to hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).Bisdemethoxycurcumin(BDMC)demonstrates therapeutic potential against HCC,yet its mechanism in preventing hepatic"inflammation-carcinoma transformation"remains incompletely understood.In the current research,clinical HCC specimens underwent analysis using hematoxylin-eosin(H&E)staining and immunohistochemistry(IHC)to evaluate the expression of fibrosis markers,M2 macrophage markers,and CXCL12.In vitro,transforming growth factor-β1(TGF-β1)-induced LX-2 cells and a co-culture system of LX-2,THP-1,and HCC cells were established.Cell functions underwent assessment through 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide(MTT),flow cytometry,and Transwell assays.Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction(RT-qPCR),Western blotting and immunofluorescence evaluated the differential expression of molecules.The interaction betweenβ-catenin/TCF4 and CXCL12 was examined using co-immunoprecipitation(Co-IP),dual luciferase,and chromatin immunoprecipitation(ChIP)assays.A DEN-induced rat model was developed to investigate BDMC’s role in liver fibrosis-associated HCC(LFAHCC)development in vivo.Our results showed that clinical HCC tissues exhibited elevated fibrosis and enriched M2 macrophages.BDMC delayed liver fibrosis progression to HCC in vivo.BDMC inhibited the inflammatory microenvironment induced by activated hepatic stellate cells(HSCs).Furthermore,BDMC suppressed M2 macrophage-induced fibrosis and HCC cell proliferation and metastasis.Mechanistically,BDMC repressed TCF4/β-catenin complex formation,thereby reducing CXCL12 transcription in LX-2 cells.Moreover,CXCL12 overexpression reversed BDMC’s inhibitory effect on macrophage M2 polarization and its mediation of fibrosis,as well as HCC proliferation and metastasis.BDMC significantly suppressed LFAHCC development through CXCL12 in rats.In conclusion,BDMC inhibited LFAHCC progression by reducing M2 macrophage polarization through suppressingβ-catenin/TCF4-mediated CXCL12 transcription.展开更多
Macrophages are widely distributed immune cells that contribute to tissue homeostasis.Human THP-1 cells have been widely used in various macrophage-associated studies,especially those involving pro-inflammatory M1 and...Macrophages are widely distributed immune cells that contribute to tissue homeostasis.Human THP-1 cells have been widely used in various macrophage-associated studies,especially those involving pro-inflammatory M1 and anti-inflammatory M2 phenotypes.However,the molecular characterization of four M2 subtypes(M2a,M2b,M2c,and M2d)derived from THP-1has not been fully investigated.In this study,we systematically analyzed the protein expression profiles of human THP-1-derived macrophages(M0,M1,M2a,M2b,M2c,and M2d)using quantitative proteomics approaches.The commonly and specially regulated proteins of the four M2 subtypes and their potential biological functions were further investigated.The results showed that M2a and M2b,and M2c and M2d have very similar protein expression profiles.These data could serve as an important resource for studies of macrophages using THP-1 cells,and provide a reference to distinguish different M2 subtypes in macrophage-associated diseases for subsequent clinical research.展开更多
BACKGROUND Gastric cancer is a prevalent malignant cancer with a high incidence and significantly affects the health of modern people globally.Cisplatin(DDP)is one of the most common and effective chemotherapies for p...BACKGROUND Gastric cancer is a prevalent malignant cancer with a high incidence and significantly affects the health of modern people globally.Cisplatin(DDP)is one of the most common and effective chemotherapies for patients with gastric cancer,but DDP resistance remains a severe clinical challenge.AIM To explore the function of M2 polarized macrophages-derived exosomal microRNA(miR)-588 in the modulation of DDP resistance of gastric cancer cells.METHODS M2 polarized macrophages were isolated and identified by specific markers using flow cytometry analysis.The exosomes from M2 macrophages were identified by transmission electron microscopy and related markers.The uptake of the PKH67-labelled M2 macrophages-derived exosomes was detected in SGC7901 cells.The function and mechanism of exosomal miR-588 from M2 macrophages in the modulation of DDP resistance of gastric cancer cells was analyzed by CCK-8 assay,apoptosis analysis,colony formation assay,Western blot analysis,qPCR analysis,and luciferase reporter assay in SGC7901 and SGC7901/DDP cells,and by tumorigenicity analysis in nude mice.RESULTS M2 polarized macrophages were isolated from mouse bone marrow stimulated with interleukin(IL)-13 and IL-4.Co-cultivation of gastric cancer cells with M2 polarized macrophages promoted DDP resistance.M2 polarized macrophagesderived exosomes could transfer in gastric cancer cells to enhance DDP resistance.Exosomal miR-588 from M2 macrophages contributed to DDP resistance of gastric cancer cells.miR-588 promoted DDP-resistant gastric cancer cell growth in vivo.miR-588 was able to target cylindromatosis(CYLD)in gastric cancer cells.The depletion of CYLD reversed miR-588 inhibition-regulated cell proliferation and apoptosis of gastric cancer cells exposed to DDP.CONCLUSION In conclusion,we uncovered that exosomal miR-588 from M2 macrophages contributes to DDP resistance of gastric cancer cells by partly targeting CYLD.miR-588 may be applied as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of gastric cancer.展开更多
The process of lymphatic metastasis was proved to be associated with podoplanin-expressing macrophages in breast cancer(BC).This study aimed to investigate the role of the M2 phenotype of tumor-associated macrophages ...The process of lymphatic metastasis was proved to be associated with podoplanin-expressing macrophages in breast cancer(BC).This study aimed to investigate the role of the M2 phenotype of tumor-associated macrophages and mine the key M2 macrophages-related genes for lymph node metastasis in BC.We downloaded the GSE158399 dataset from the Gene Expression Omnibus(GEO)database,which includes transcriptomic profiles of individual cells from primary tumors,negative lymph nodes(NLNs),and positive lymph nodes(PLNs)of breast cancer patients.The cell subsets were identified by clustering analysis after quality control of the scRNA-seq using Seurat.The activation and migration capability of M2 macrophages were evaluated with R package“GSVA”.The key M2 macrophages-related genes were screened from the differential expressed genes(DEGs)and M2 macrophages activation and migration gene sets collected from MSigDB database.Our analysis identified three main cell types in primary tumors,NLNs,and PLNs:basal cells,luminal cells,and immune cell subsets.The further cell type classification of immune cell subsets indicated M2 macrophages accumulation in NLs and PLs.The GSVA enrichment scores for activation and migration capability were increased significantly in M2 macrophages from primary tumors than NLNs and PLNs(pvalue<0.001).Seven M2 macrophages activation-related and 15 M2 macrophages migration-related genes were significantly up-regulated in primary tumors than NLNs and PLNs.The proportion and GSVA enrichment scores for activation and migration of M2 macrophages may be potential markers for lymph node metastasis in breast cancer.Our study demonstrated that twenty-two up-regulated mRNA may be possible therapeutic targets for lymph node metastasis in breast cancer.展开更多
Pain is a signal of inflammation that can have both protective and pathogenic effects.Macrophages,significant components of the immune system,play crucial roles in the occurrence and development of pain,particularly i...Pain is a signal of inflammation that can have both protective and pathogenic effects.Macrophages,significant components of the immune system,play crucial roles in the occurrence and development of pain,particularly in neuroimmune communication.Macrophages exhibit plasticity and heterogeneity,adopting either pro-inflammatory M1 or anti-inflammatory M2 phenotypes depending on their functional orientation.Recent research highlights the contribution of macrophages to pain dynamics by undergoing changes in their functional polarity,leading to macrophage activation,tissue infiltration,and cytokine secretion.M1 macrophages release pro-inflammatory mediators that are not only essential in defending against infections,but also contributing to tissue damage and the elicitation of pain.However,this process can be counteracted by M2 macrophages,facilitating pain relief through producing anti-inflammatory cytokines and opioid peptides or enhancing efferocytosis.M1 and M2 macrophages play important roles in both the initiation and mitigation of pain.展开更多
Pathologic inflammatory conditions are frequently correlated with dynamic alterations through macrophage activation,with classically activated Ml cells associated with promoting and sustaining inflammation and M2 cell...Pathologic inflammatory conditions are frequently correlated with dynamic alterations through macrophage activation,with classically activated Ml cells associated with promoting and sustaining inflammation and M2 cells implicated in resolving or smoldering chronic inflammation.Inflammation is a common feature of various chronic diseases,and it has direct involvement in the emergence and progression of these conditions.Macrophages participate in an autoregulatory loop characterizing inflammatory process,as they produce a wide range of biologically active mediators that exert either deleterious or beneficial effects during inflammation.Therefore,balancing the ratio of M1/M2 macrophages can help to ameliorate the inflammatory landscape of pathological conditions.This review will explore the role of macrophage polarization in distant pathological inflammatory conditions,such as cancer,autoimmunity,renal inflammation,stroke,and atherosclerosis,while sharing macrophage-driven pathogenesis.展开更多
The problem of liver cancer is becoming increasingly important due to the epi-demic of metabolic diseases and persistent high alcohol consumption.This deter-mines great attention to the development and improvement of ...The problem of liver cancer is becoming increasingly important due to the epi-demic of metabolic diseases and persistent high alcohol consumption.This deter-mines great attention to the development and improvement of methods for early diagnosis and treatment of liver cancer.Huang et al presented a study in the World Journal of Gastroenterology,in which they showed that the use of the traditional Chinese medicine Calculus bovis(CB)can suppress tumor growth in mice by inhibiting M2 tumor-associated macrophages(TAM)through modulating the activity of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway.The interaction of CB components with the Wnt/β-catenin pathway,M2 TAM polarization,and tumor dynamics were studied using network pharmacology,transcriptomics,and molecular docking.It is now generally accepted that the polarization of TAM and the differentiation of the functions of M1 and M2 phagocytes are of great importance for the progression of neoplasms.It is assumed that M2 TAM promote proliferation and migration of tumor cells.Attempts to medicinally influence the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in order to modulate phagocyte polarization now belong to one of the most promising areas of immunotherapy of oncological diseases.Undoubtedly,the work of the Chinese authors deserves attention and further development.展开更多
Objective:To observe the effect of Pingchuan granule on the number of typeⅡinnate lymphocytes(ILC2)and M2 polarization of macrophages in the lung tissue of asthmatic mice;Methods:Ovalbumin sensitized and challenged a...Objective:To observe the effect of Pingchuan granule on the number of typeⅡinnate lymphocytes(ILC2)and M2 polarization of macrophages in the lung tissue of asthmatic mice;Methods:Ovalbumin sensitized and challenged asthmatic mouse models were established,and then Pingchuan granules or IL-33 neutralizing antibody were given to intervene.The pathological morphology of lung tissue was observed by HE,PAS and Masson staining,and the expressions of IL-4,IL-5,IL-13 and IL-33 in BALF and lung tissue were detected by ELISA and qRT-PCR,Flow cytometry was used to detect the number of type II innate lymphocytes and type M2 macrophages in lung tissue.Western blot was used to detect the protein expression levels of ST-2,FIZZ1 and Arg-1 in lung tissue;Results:Compared with the control group,the inflammation score,PAS score and collagen staining area of the model group were significantly increased,the expressions of IL-4,IL-5,IL-13 and IL-33 in BALF and lung tissue were significantly increased,the number of ILC2 and M2 macrophages,the expression of ST-2,FIZZ1 and Arg-1 protein in lung tissue were significantly increased,and the differences were statistically significant(P<0.05);Compared with the model group,Pingchuan granule could significantly reduce the inflammation score,PAS score and collagen staining area of asthmatic mice,down-regulate the expression of IL-4,IL-5,IL-13 and IL-33 in BALF and lung tissue,reduce the number of ILC2 and M2 macrophages,and the expression of ST-2,FIZZ1 and Arg-1 protein in lung tissue(P<0.05);Conclusion:Pingchuan granule improve the airway remodeling of asthma by inhibiting the polarization of M2 macrophages mediated by ILC2.展开更多
Background:Breast cancer(BC)is the most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer death in women.Immune features play an important role in improving the prognosis prediction of BC.However,while previous immune sig...Background:Breast cancer(BC)is the most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer death in women.Immune features play an important role in improving the prognosis prediction of BC.However,while previous immune signatures consisted mainly of immune genes,immune cell-based signatures have been rarely reported.Methods:In this study,we report that a novel immune cell signature is effective in improving prognostic prediction by combining M2 macrophages.We identified 17 differentially infiltrating immune cells between cancer and normal groups.Prognostic features of the four immune cells identified by LASSO COX analysis showed good performance for survival risk stratification in both the training and validation datasets.Independent prognostic analysis showed that M2 macrophages were significantly associated with survival in BC patients and both the cells and the risk score were the main prognostic factors independent of survival in BC patients.Results:Therefore,we combined M2 macrophages and risk scores to create a nomogram with good prognostic predictive power.Finally,we attempted to study the effect of M2 on M2 macrophage progression in BC in vitro.BC cells cultured with M2 macrophage-conditioned medium exhibited distinct malignant features,including migration and invasion.Conclusion:The findings suggest that M2 macrophages are associated with poor prognosis in breast cancer patients possibly by promoting tumor invasion and migration.This work may provide a new strategy for prognostic prediction and immunotherapy in BC.展开更多
Gastrointestinal stromal tumors(GIST)are the most common mesenchymalderived tumors of the GI tract.They can occur throughout the GI tract,and the survival time of some patients can be improved by first-line targeted t...Gastrointestinal stromal tumors(GIST)are the most common mesenchymalderived tumors of the GI tract.They can occur throughout the GI tract,and the survival time of some patients can be improved by first-line targeted therapy with imatinib.However,there are some limitations with imatinib treatment.Immunotherapy for GIST has attracted much attention in recent years,and as one of the most abundant cells in the GIST microenvironment,M2 macrophages play an important role in disease progression.They have unique anti-inflammatory and pro-tumorigenic effects and are one target for immunotherapy.This review summarizes the connection between different factors and the programmed death receptor-1/programmed death ligand-1 pathway and M2 macrophages to reactivate or enhance anti-tumor immunity and improve imatinib efficacy,and to provide new ideas for GIST immunotherapy.展开更多
文摘Objectives:This study aimed to determine the role and mechanism underlying migration and invasion inhibitory protein(MIIP)modulation in M2 macrophages within the tumor microenvironment and the potential of targeting the MIIP-stimulator of interferon genes(STING)pathway in colorectal cancer(CRC)therapy.Methods:MIIP expression was analyzed for associations with the STING pathway and M2 macrophage infiltration using public datasets and clinical CRC samples.CRC cells were genetically modified using lentiviral vectors to overexpress or silence MIIP and STING.The interactions of genetically modified CRC cells with macrophages were studied in co-culture systems.Techniques,including immunofluorescence staining,RT‒qPCR,western blot,ELISA,flow cytometry,and Transwell migration and invasion assays,were used to evaluate the crosstalk between CRC cells and macrophages.An orthotopic mouse CRC model was developed to study the effects of MIIP on M2 macrophage polarization and tumor metastasis through the STING-NFκB2-IL10 axis.The therapeutic significance of a STING antagonist was also assessed in vivo.Results:Analyses of The Cancer Genome Atlas(TCGA)cohort and our CRC cohort revealed low MIIP expression is associated with STING pathway activation,increased M2 macrophage infiltration,and poor clinical outcomes.The results of functional experiments demonstrated that MIIP inhibits IL10 production via the STING-TRAF3-NFκB2 axis in CRC cells,suppressing M2 macrophage polarization in co-culture systems.Conversely,M2 macrophages promoted CRC cell migration and invasion in an IL10-dependent manner.In vitro and in vivo studies confirmed that the MIIP-mediated feedback loop between CRC cells and macrophages depends on the STING-NFκB2-IL10 axis.Furthermore,inhibition of STING expression in a mouse model reduced M2 macrophage polarization and tumor metastasis.Conclusions:This study established MIIP as a crucial regulator of macrophage polarization in the CRC tumor microenvironment,providing new insights into the role in suppressing CRC progression and immune-tumor crosstalk.These findings highlight the potential of targeting the STING pathway as a therapeutic strategy for CRC patients who respond poorly to immune checkpoint inhibitors.
基金supported by the Central Government-Guided Local Science and Technology Development Fund Project(Science and Technology Innovation Base Project)(Grant No.236Z7749G)Hebei Provincial Precision Medicine Innovation and Development Joint Fund Incubation Project(Grant No.H2025206547)Hebei Provincial Basic Research Special Youth Science Fund Project(Grant No.H2025206274).
文摘Background:Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)is an aggressive and lethal malignancy.Metabolic reprogramming dynamically remodels the tumor microenvironment(TME)and drives HCC progression.This study investigated the mechanism through which metabolic reprogramming remodels the TME in HCC.Methods:HCC patient transcriptome data were subjected to bioinformatics analysis to identify differentially expressed genes and immune infiltration status.Immunohistochemical analysis was performed to determine the correlation between succinate dehydrogenase complex subunit A(SDHA)expression and M2 macrophage infiltration.SDHA-knockdown or SDHA-overexpressing HCC cells were used for in vitro experiments,including co-culturing,flow cytometry,and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.Western blotting assay,functional assays,and subcutaneous tumor model mice were used to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying succinate-mediated HCC cell-macrophage interactions in the TME.Results:Higher infiltration of M2 macrophages correlated with worse prognosis in HCC patients.SDHA was downregulated in HCC tumor tissues and showed a negative correlation with M2 macrophage infiltration.SDHA knockdown promoted M2 macrophage polarization,whereas SDHA overexpression reversed this effect.Mechanistically,SDHA deficiency in HCC cells induced succinate accumulation,which promoted M2 macrophage polarization by activating the G protein-coupled receptor 91(GPR91)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3(STAT3)pathway.Concurrently,succinate stimulation enhanced mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation in M2 macrophages,thereby promoting HCC progression.Serum succinate levels were elevated in HCC patients.The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis indicated that serum succinate is a promising diagnostic marker for HCC(area under the curve=0.815).Conclusion:SDHA deficiency leads to succinate accumulation,which promotes M2 macrophage polarization through the GPR91/STAT3 pathway,thereby facilitating HCC progression.Based on these findings,serum succinate could be a promising diagnostic biomarker for HCC.
文摘BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)is one of the most aggressive tumors worldwide.Chronic inflammation contributes to tumor evolution,and the infiltration of tumor-associated macrophages(TAMs),also known as M2-like macrophages,is associated with the most aggressive behavior.Therefore,these macrophages provide the primary growth and migratory factors to the tumor cells,including those of HCC.Current therapies are not well optimized for eliminating trans-formed cells or neutralizing the tumor immune microenvironment leukocytes,such as TAMs.Growth differentiation factor 11(GDF11)may represent a promi-sing dual therapeutic target due to its reported anti-tumorigenic and immuno-modulatory properties.AIM To characterize the effects of GDF11 in M2-like macrophages and the HCC cell interaction using a functional in vitro model.METHODS This research used THP-1 and Huh7 cell lines.We applied recombinant GDF11(50 ng/mL)every 24 hours on THP-1 differentiated macrophages with M2-like polarization using interleukin-4 and interleukin-13.Firstly,the GDF11 effects on signaling,viability,proliferation,metabolism,and redox state in macrophages were charac-terized.Subsequently,we extracted conditioned media(CM)from macrophages and performed indirect co-cultures with Huh7 cells.The functional parameters were proliferation and migration assays.Finally,we charac-terized secretion in the CM using the cytokine array membrane assay.RESULTS The present study demonstrated that GDF11 activates the canonical pathway Smad2/3 without cytotoxic or prolif-erative effects.We provide evidence that GDF11 also diminishes the pro-tumoral properties of M2-like macrophages.GDF11 promoted the reduction of the M2-like macrophage marker,cluster of differentiation 206,indicating a loss of pro-tumoral properties in these leukocytes.Furthermore,this molecule induced changes in metabolism and an increase in reactive oxygen species.Using CM derived from GDF11-treated M2-like macrophages,we observed a reduction in the proliferation and migratory capacity of liver cancer cells.Moreover,the cytokine profile was affected by GDF11 stimulus,demonstrating that this molecule alters the pro-tumoral properties of TAMs,which in turn impact the behavior of HCC-derived cells.CONCLUSION This in vitro study suggests that mitigating tumor-promoting or M2-like macrophages with GDF11 may be an effective strategy for controlling the aggressiveness of HCC.
文摘Objective miR-34c-3p is down-regulated in nasopharyngeal carcinoma(NPC).The biological role of miR-34c-3p in NPC and its underlying mechanisms are unknown and were explored in this study.Methods Flow cytometry and immunohistochemical staining were employed to detect cluster of differentiation 86(CD86)and cluster of differentiation 206(CD206)expression;quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(qRT-PCR)and western blotting were employed to examine mRNA expression and protein levels;cell counting kit-8(CCK8)and transwell assays were employed to assess cell proliferation,migration,and invasion;and hematoxylin-eosin(HE)staining was employed to assess pathological changes in tumor tissues.Results Our results revealed that the miR-34c-3p mimic markedly inhibited M2 polarization of macrophages by targeting SLC7A11,and M2 macrophages transfected with the miR-34c-3p mimic inhibited the proliferation,migration,and invasion of NPC cells.The in vivo experiments further confirmed that miR-34c-3p mimics blocked tumor growth and reduced inflammatory infiltration in tumor tissues.Conclusion This study provides novel insights into the pathogenesis of NPC and a new treatment strategy.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81873934and Jinan Science and Technology Planning Project,No.202225065.
文摘BACKGROUND Mesenchymal stem cells,found in various tissues,possess significant healing and immunomodulatory properties,influencing macrophage polarization,which is essential for wound repair.However,chronic wounds present significant therapeutic challenges,requiring novel strategies to improve healing outcomes.AIM To investigate the potential of fetal dermal mesenchymal stem cells(FDMSCs)in enhancing wound healing through modulation of macrophage polarization,specifically by promoting the M2 phenotype to address inflammatory responses in chronic wounds.METHODS FDMSCs were isolated from BalB/C mice and co-cultured with RAW264.7 macrophages to assess their effects on macrophage polarization.Flow cytometry,quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction,and histological analyses were employed to evaluate shifts in macrophage phenotype and wound healing in a mouse model.Statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism.RESULTS FDMSCs induced macrophage polarization from the M1 to M2 phenotype,as demonstrated by a reduction in proinflammatory markers(inducible nitric oxide synthase,interleukin-6)and an increase in anti-inflammatory markers[mannose receptor(CD206),arginase-1]in co-cultured RAW264.7 macrophages.These shifts were confirmed by flow cytometry.In an acute skin wound model,FDMSC-treated mice exhibited faster wound healing,enhanced collagen deposition,and improved vascular regeneration compared to controls.Significantly higher expression of arginase-1 further indicated an enriched M2 macrophage environment.CONCLUSION FDMSCs effectively modulate macrophage polarization from M1 to M2,reduce inflammation,and enhance tissue repair,demonstrating their potential as an immunomodulatory strategy in wound healing.These findings highlight the promising therapeutic application of FDMSCs in managing chronic wounds.
基金Financial support was provided by the Research Start-up Funding of Changzhou University(No.ZMF19020381)。
文摘Objective:Aloin,the main active component in Aloe vera(L.)Burm.f.,has shown promising anti-tumor effects.This study investigated the impact of aloin in lung squamous cell carcinoma(LUSC)and explored its functional mechanism.Methods:We analyzed the viability,migration,invasion,proliferation,and apoptosis of two LUSC cell lines after treatment with aloin.Target molecules of aloin and downstream target transcripts of nuclear receptor subfamily 3 group C member 2(NR3C2)were predicted by bioinformatics.The biological functions of NR3C2 and metallothionein 1M(MT1M)in the malignant properties of LUSC cells were determined.A co-culture system of LUSC cells with monocyte-derived macrophages was constructed.Mouse xenograft tumor models were generated to analyze the functions of aloin and NR3C2 in the tumorigenic activity of LUSC cells and macrophage polarization in vivo.Results:Aloin suppressed malignant properties of LUSC cells in vitro.However,these effects were negated by the silencing of NR3C2.NR3C2 was found to activate MT1M transcription by binding to its promoter.Additional upregulation of MT1M suppressed the malignant behavior of LUSC cells augmented by NR3C2 silencing.Analysis of the M1 and M2 markers/cytokines in the macrophages or the culture supernatant revealed that aloin treatment or MT1M overexpression in LUSC cells enhanced M1 polarization while suppressing M2 polarization of macrophages,whereas NR3C2 silencing led to reverse trends.Consistent findings were reproduced in vivo.Conclusion:This study demonstrated that aloin activates the NR3C2/MT1M axis to suppress the malignant behavior of LUSC cells and M2 macrophage polarization.Please cite this article as:Chen YN,Lu JY,Gao CF,Fang ZR,Zhou Y.Aloin blocks the malignant behavior of lung squamous cell carcinoma cells and M2 macrophage polarization by modulating the NR3C2/MT1M axis.
文摘BACKGROUNDMultiple exosomal microRNAs were reported to have a significant role incolorectal cancer (CRC) cells. The function and mechanism of exosomal miR-191in CRC have not been clearly elucidated.AIMTo explore the roles of miR-191 in CRC.METHODSSupernatant exosomes from CRC cells were extracted and identified. After coculture,macrophage polarization was determined using flow cytometry for themarkers cluster of differentiation (CD) 68 and CD163, enzyme-linked immunosorbentassay for the cytokines interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-10, western blotting forchitinase-like protein 3 and arginase-1 expression, and immunofluorescentstaining for 1,1’-dioctadecyl-3,3,3’,3’-tetramethylindocarbocyanine perchlorate.Reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, ferroptosis-related proteins (SLC7A11 andGPX4), and apoptosis were determined with flow cytometry, western blotting,and TUNEL staining. We performed in vivo experiments to determine the functionof exosomal miR-191 and M2 macrophage polarization.RESULTSWe successfully isolated exosomes from CRC cells. Inhibition of miR-191 in CRCcells suppressed M2 polarization of macrophages. After coculture of macrophages,inhibition of miR-191 induced ROS production, ferroptosis, and apoptosisof CRC cells. Silencing of exosomal miR-191 from CRC cells prevented M2polarization of macrophages, and weakened CRC development by inducingferroptosis. Exosomal miR-191 accelerated cancer progression in CRC nude miceby promoting M2 polarization of macrophages. CONCLUSIONInhibition of exosomal miR-191 attenuated CRC progression by inducing ferroptosis in macrophages. This studyrevealed a novel mechanism by which exosomal miR-191 modulates the tumor microenvironment.
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82204428,U24A20815,82304526,82204427,82201001,82430108,82293681(82293680),82273941)the National High-level Personnelof Special Support Program(to Dongmei Zhang and Minfeng Chen)+5 种基金the Natural Science Foundation of Guangdong Province(2023A1515010361 and 2022A1515011813)the Guangdong Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation(2024B1515020098)the Science and Technology Program of Guangzhou(SL2024A04J00410,SL2024A04J00374,SL2024A04J00280)the Fundamental Research Funds for The Central Universities(21624103)the Science and Technology Projects in Guangzhou(2023A03J1030,202201010173,202102070001)the Clinical Frontier Technology Program of the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University,China(JNU1AF-CFTP-2022-a01210).
文摘Metabolic reprogramming reshapes the tumor microenvironment(TME)and facilitates metastasis,but its molecular mechanisms remain incompletely understood.Here,we identified enolase 2(ENO2),a critical glycolytic enzyme,as being associated with lymphatic metastasis in head and neck squamous cell carci-noma(HNSCC).Mechanistically,phosphoenolpyruvate(PEP),the metabolite secreted by ENO2-expressing HNSCC cells,drove histone H3 lysine 18 lactylation(H3K18la)-mediated M2 polarization in macrophages,which,in turn,enhanced the epithelial-mesenchymal transition(EMT)and invasiveness of HNSCC cells.Pharmacological inhibition of ENO2 with POMHEX effectively reversed M2 macrophage polarization and inhibited HNSCC lymphatic metastasis.Collectively,our findings underscore the prog-nostic significance of ENO2 and highlight its potential as a therapeutic target for metastatic HNSCC.Furthermore,we reveal a previously underappreciated role of PEP in modulating the tumor immune microenvironment and tumor metastasis via epigenetic modification.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China:Basic Research on the Mechanism of Organ Immune Damage and the Diagnosis and Treatment of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine(No.32141005)。
文摘OBJECTIVE:To investigate the impact of Shenhua tablet(肾华片,SHT)on renal macrophage polarization and renal injury in mice with diabetic kidney disease(DKD)and to explore the potential mechanism involving the hypoxia-inducible factor-1α(HIF-1α)and pyruvate kinase M2(PKM2)signaling pathway,along with the glycolysis metabolism pathway.METHODS:The animals were divided into the following groups:Model,Control,dapagliflozin,SHT low-dose,SHT medium-dose,and SHT high-dose.We assessed 24-hour urine protein(24 h-UTP)levels,urinary albuminto-creatinine ratio,and regularly monitored fasting blood glucose during the treatment period.After treatment,we examined renal tissue structure,renal function(urea nitrogen,uric acid,creatinine,cystatin C,β2-microglobulin),and glycolysis in renal macrophages.Additionally,we observed macrophage polarization in renal tissue and measured inflammatory factors(tumor necrosis factor-α,interleukin-1β,interleukin-6,interleukin-10,monocyte chemoattractant protein-1)to assess the immunoinflammatory status of the renal tissue.Finally,we investigated the expression of the HIF-1α/PKM2 signaling pathway in macrophages to explore its role in the glycolysis process.RESULTS:SHT shows a beneficial effect in treating DKD by reducing 24 h-UTP,regulating blood glucose levels,improving renal tissue structure,protecting renal function,inhibiting macrophage glycolysis,reducing macrophage transformation to the M1 state,and suppressing the expression of the HIF-1α/PKM2 signaling pathway.CONCLUSION:SHT may exert renoprotective effects by inhibiting macrophage glycolysis via the HIF-1α/PKM2 signaling pathway.This inhibition decreases macrophage M1 polarization and reduces immunoinflammatory injury in the renal tissue of DKD mice.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.82374325 and 82074322)GDAS'ProjectofScience and Technology Development(No.2022GDASZH-2022010110).
文摘Ulcerative colitis(UC)is a chronic and non-specific inflammatory bowel disease(IBD).Huanglian Ganjiang decoction(HGD),derived from ancient book Beiji Qianjin Yao Fang,has demonstrated efficacy in treating UC patients traditionally.Previous research established that the compatibility of cold herb Coptidis Rhizoma+Phellodendri Chinensis Cortex(CP)and hot herb Angelicae Sinensis Radix+Zingiberis Rhizoma(AZ)in HGD synergistically improved colitis mice.This study investigated the compatibility mechanisms through which CP and AZ regulated inflammatory balance in colitis mice.The experimental colitis model was established by administering 3%dextran sulphate sodium(DSS)to mice for 7 days,followed by CP,AZ and CPAZ treatment for an additional 7 days.M1/M2 macrophage polarization levels,glucose metabolites levels and pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4(PDK4)expression were analyzed using flow cytometry,Western blot,immunofluorescence and targeted glucose metabolomics.The findings indicated that CP inhibited M1 macrophage polarization,decreased inflammatory metabolites associated with tricarboxylic acid(TCA)cycle,and suppressed PDK4 expression and pyruvate dehydrogenase(PDH)(Ser-293)phosphorylation level.AZ enhanced M2 macrophage polarization,increased lactate axis metabolite lactate levels,and upregulated PDK4 expression and PDH(Ser-293)phosphorylation level.TCA cycle blocker AG-221 and adeno-associated virus(AAV)-PDK4 partially negated CP’s inhibition of M1 macrophage polarization.Lactate axis antagonist oxamate and PDK4 inhibitor dichloroacetate(DCA)partially reduced AZ’s activation of M2 macrophage polarization.In conclusion,the compatibility of CP and AZ synergistically alleviated colitis in mice through M1/M2 macrophage polarization balance via PDK4-mediated glucose metabolism reprogramming.Specifically,CP reduced M1 macrophage polarization by restoration of TCA cycle via PDK4 inhibition,while AZ increased M2 macrophage polarization through activation of PDK4/lactate axis.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81904182)the Training Program for Excellent Young Innovators of Changsha(No.kq2209020)+1 种基金the Excellent Youth Project of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine(No.2022XJB006)the Excellent Youth Project of Natural Science Foundation of Heilongjiang Province(No.YQ2022H015).
文摘Chronic,unresolved inflammation correlates with persistent hepatic injury and fibrosis,ultimately progressing to hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).Bisdemethoxycurcumin(BDMC)demonstrates therapeutic potential against HCC,yet its mechanism in preventing hepatic"inflammation-carcinoma transformation"remains incompletely understood.In the current research,clinical HCC specimens underwent analysis using hematoxylin-eosin(H&E)staining and immunohistochemistry(IHC)to evaluate the expression of fibrosis markers,M2 macrophage markers,and CXCL12.In vitro,transforming growth factor-β1(TGF-β1)-induced LX-2 cells and a co-culture system of LX-2,THP-1,and HCC cells were established.Cell functions underwent assessment through 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide(MTT),flow cytometry,and Transwell assays.Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction(RT-qPCR),Western blotting and immunofluorescence evaluated the differential expression of molecules.The interaction betweenβ-catenin/TCF4 and CXCL12 was examined using co-immunoprecipitation(Co-IP),dual luciferase,and chromatin immunoprecipitation(ChIP)assays.A DEN-induced rat model was developed to investigate BDMC’s role in liver fibrosis-associated HCC(LFAHCC)development in vivo.Our results showed that clinical HCC tissues exhibited elevated fibrosis and enriched M2 macrophages.BDMC delayed liver fibrosis progression to HCC in vivo.BDMC inhibited the inflammatory microenvironment induced by activated hepatic stellate cells(HSCs).Furthermore,BDMC suppressed M2 macrophage-induced fibrosis and HCC cell proliferation and metastasis.Mechanistically,BDMC repressed TCF4/β-catenin complex formation,thereby reducing CXCL12 transcription in LX-2 cells.Moreover,CXCL12 overexpression reversed BDMC’s inhibitory effect on macrophage M2 polarization and its mediation of fibrosis,as well as HCC proliferation and metastasis.BDMC significantly suppressed LFAHCC development through CXCL12 in rats.In conclusion,BDMC inhibited LFAHCC progression by reducing M2 macrophage polarization through suppressingβ-catenin/TCF4-mediated CXCL12 transcription.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(No.2019YFA0905200)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.91853123,81773180,81800655,and 21705127)the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(Nos.2019M653715,2019TQ0260,and 2019M663798)。
文摘Macrophages are widely distributed immune cells that contribute to tissue homeostasis.Human THP-1 cells have been widely used in various macrophage-associated studies,especially those involving pro-inflammatory M1 and anti-inflammatory M2 phenotypes.However,the molecular characterization of four M2 subtypes(M2a,M2b,M2c,and M2d)derived from THP-1has not been fully investigated.In this study,we systematically analyzed the protein expression profiles of human THP-1-derived macrophages(M0,M1,M2a,M2b,M2c,and M2d)using quantitative proteomics approaches.The commonly and specially regulated proteins of the four M2 subtypes and their potential biological functions were further investigated.The results showed that M2a and M2b,and M2c and M2d have very similar protein expression profiles.These data could serve as an important resource for studies of macrophages using THP-1 cells,and provide a reference to distinguish different M2 subtypes in macrophage-associated diseases for subsequent clinical research.
文摘BACKGROUND Gastric cancer is a prevalent malignant cancer with a high incidence and significantly affects the health of modern people globally.Cisplatin(DDP)is one of the most common and effective chemotherapies for patients with gastric cancer,but DDP resistance remains a severe clinical challenge.AIM To explore the function of M2 polarized macrophages-derived exosomal microRNA(miR)-588 in the modulation of DDP resistance of gastric cancer cells.METHODS M2 polarized macrophages were isolated and identified by specific markers using flow cytometry analysis.The exosomes from M2 macrophages were identified by transmission electron microscopy and related markers.The uptake of the PKH67-labelled M2 macrophages-derived exosomes was detected in SGC7901 cells.The function and mechanism of exosomal miR-588 from M2 macrophages in the modulation of DDP resistance of gastric cancer cells was analyzed by CCK-8 assay,apoptosis analysis,colony formation assay,Western blot analysis,qPCR analysis,and luciferase reporter assay in SGC7901 and SGC7901/DDP cells,and by tumorigenicity analysis in nude mice.RESULTS M2 polarized macrophages were isolated from mouse bone marrow stimulated with interleukin(IL)-13 and IL-4.Co-cultivation of gastric cancer cells with M2 polarized macrophages promoted DDP resistance.M2 polarized macrophagesderived exosomes could transfer in gastric cancer cells to enhance DDP resistance.Exosomal miR-588 from M2 macrophages contributed to DDP resistance of gastric cancer cells.miR-588 promoted DDP-resistant gastric cancer cell growth in vivo.miR-588 was able to target cylindromatosis(CYLD)in gastric cancer cells.The depletion of CYLD reversed miR-588 inhibition-regulated cell proliferation and apoptosis of gastric cancer cells exposed to DDP.CONCLUSION In conclusion,we uncovered that exosomal miR-588 from M2 macrophages contributes to DDP resistance of gastric cancer cells by partly targeting CYLD.miR-588 may be applied as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of gastric cancer.
文摘The process of lymphatic metastasis was proved to be associated with podoplanin-expressing macrophages in breast cancer(BC).This study aimed to investigate the role of the M2 phenotype of tumor-associated macrophages and mine the key M2 macrophages-related genes for lymph node metastasis in BC.We downloaded the GSE158399 dataset from the Gene Expression Omnibus(GEO)database,which includes transcriptomic profiles of individual cells from primary tumors,negative lymph nodes(NLNs),and positive lymph nodes(PLNs)of breast cancer patients.The cell subsets were identified by clustering analysis after quality control of the scRNA-seq using Seurat.The activation and migration capability of M2 macrophages were evaluated with R package“GSVA”.The key M2 macrophages-related genes were screened from the differential expressed genes(DEGs)and M2 macrophages activation and migration gene sets collected from MSigDB database.Our analysis identified three main cell types in primary tumors,NLNs,and PLNs:basal cells,luminal cells,and immune cell subsets.The further cell type classification of immune cell subsets indicated M2 macrophages accumulation in NLs and PLs.The GSVA enrichment scores for activation and migration capability were increased significantly in M2 macrophages from primary tumors than NLNs and PLNs(pvalue<0.001).Seven M2 macrophages activation-related and 15 M2 macrophages migration-related genes were significantly up-regulated in primary tumors than NLNs and PLNs.The proportion and GSVA enrichment scores for activation and migration of M2 macrophages may be potential markers for lymph node metastasis in breast cancer.Our study demonstrated that twenty-two up-regulated mRNA may be possible therapeutic targets for lymph node metastasis in breast cancer.
基金supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Hunan Province(2021JJ41060,2022JJ30972)the Changsha Municipal Natural Science Foundation(kq2014280)+1 种基金the Research Program Project of Hunan Health Commission(B202304119634)China。
文摘Pain is a signal of inflammation that can have both protective and pathogenic effects.Macrophages,significant components of the immune system,play crucial roles in the occurrence and development of pain,particularly in neuroimmune communication.Macrophages exhibit plasticity and heterogeneity,adopting either pro-inflammatory M1 or anti-inflammatory M2 phenotypes depending on their functional orientation.Recent research highlights the contribution of macrophages to pain dynamics by undergoing changes in their functional polarity,leading to macrophage activation,tissue infiltration,and cytokine secretion.M1 macrophages release pro-inflammatory mediators that are not only essential in defending against infections,but also contributing to tissue damage and the elicitation of pain.However,this process can be counteracted by M2 macrophages,facilitating pain relief through producing anti-inflammatory cytokines and opioid peptides or enhancing efferocytosis.M1 and M2 macrophages play important roles in both the initiation and mitigation of pain.
文摘Pathologic inflammatory conditions are frequently correlated with dynamic alterations through macrophage activation,with classically activated Ml cells associated with promoting and sustaining inflammation and M2 cells implicated in resolving or smoldering chronic inflammation.Inflammation is a common feature of various chronic diseases,and it has direct involvement in the emergence and progression of these conditions.Macrophages participate in an autoregulatory loop characterizing inflammatory process,as they produce a wide range of biologically active mediators that exert either deleterious or beneficial effects during inflammation.Therefore,balancing the ratio of M1/M2 macrophages can help to ameliorate the inflammatory landscape of pathological conditions.This review will explore the role of macrophage polarization in distant pathological inflammatory conditions,such as cancer,autoimmunity,renal inflammation,stroke,and atherosclerosis,while sharing macrophage-driven pathogenesis.
文摘The problem of liver cancer is becoming increasingly important due to the epi-demic of metabolic diseases and persistent high alcohol consumption.This deter-mines great attention to the development and improvement of methods for early diagnosis and treatment of liver cancer.Huang et al presented a study in the World Journal of Gastroenterology,in which they showed that the use of the traditional Chinese medicine Calculus bovis(CB)can suppress tumor growth in mice by inhibiting M2 tumor-associated macrophages(TAM)through modulating the activity of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway.The interaction of CB components with the Wnt/β-catenin pathway,M2 TAM polarization,and tumor dynamics were studied using network pharmacology,transcriptomics,and molecular docking.It is now generally accepted that the polarization of TAM and the differentiation of the functions of M1 and M2 phagocytes are of great importance for the progression of neoplasms.It is assumed that M2 TAM promote proliferation and migration of tumor cells.Attempts to medicinally influence the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in order to modulate phagocyte polarization now belong to one of the most promising areas of immunotherapy of oncological diseases.Undoubtedly,the work of the Chinese authors deserves attention and further development.
基金General Program of the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82074365)General Program of the Natural Science Foundation of Heilongjiang Province(No.H2017068)Harbin City Applied Technology Research and Development Project(No.2017RAXXJ053)。
文摘Objective:To observe the effect of Pingchuan granule on the number of typeⅡinnate lymphocytes(ILC2)and M2 polarization of macrophages in the lung tissue of asthmatic mice;Methods:Ovalbumin sensitized and challenged asthmatic mouse models were established,and then Pingchuan granules or IL-33 neutralizing antibody were given to intervene.The pathological morphology of lung tissue was observed by HE,PAS and Masson staining,and the expressions of IL-4,IL-5,IL-13 and IL-33 in BALF and lung tissue were detected by ELISA and qRT-PCR,Flow cytometry was used to detect the number of type II innate lymphocytes and type M2 macrophages in lung tissue.Western blot was used to detect the protein expression levels of ST-2,FIZZ1 and Arg-1 in lung tissue;Results:Compared with the control group,the inflammation score,PAS score and collagen staining area of the model group were significantly increased,the expressions of IL-4,IL-5,IL-13 and IL-33 in BALF and lung tissue were significantly increased,the number of ILC2 and M2 macrophages,the expression of ST-2,FIZZ1 and Arg-1 protein in lung tissue were significantly increased,and the differences were statistically significant(P<0.05);Compared with the model group,Pingchuan granule could significantly reduce the inflammation score,PAS score and collagen staining area of asthmatic mice,down-regulate the expression of IL-4,IL-5,IL-13 and IL-33 in BALF and lung tissue,reduce the number of ILC2 and M2 macrophages,and the expression of ST-2,FIZZ1 and Arg-1 protein in lung tissue(P<0.05);Conclusion:Pingchuan granule improve the airway remodeling of asthma by inhibiting the polarization of M2 macrophages mediated by ILC2.
基金funded by the Construction and Practice of Management Cloud Platform for Intravenous Therapy Specialist Alliance,Sichuan Provincial Health Commission of Sichuan Provincial(l9pj120).
文摘Background:Breast cancer(BC)is the most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer death in women.Immune features play an important role in improving the prognosis prediction of BC.However,while previous immune signatures consisted mainly of immune genes,immune cell-based signatures have been rarely reported.Methods:In this study,we report that a novel immune cell signature is effective in improving prognostic prediction by combining M2 macrophages.We identified 17 differentially infiltrating immune cells between cancer and normal groups.Prognostic features of the four immune cells identified by LASSO COX analysis showed good performance for survival risk stratification in both the training and validation datasets.Independent prognostic analysis showed that M2 macrophages were significantly associated with survival in BC patients and both the cells and the risk score were the main prognostic factors independent of survival in BC patients.Results:Therefore,we combined M2 macrophages and risk scores to create a nomogram with good prognostic predictive power.Finally,we attempted to study the effect of M2 on M2 macrophage progression in BC in vitro.BC cells cultured with M2 macrophage-conditioned medium exhibited distinct malignant features,including migration and invasion.Conclusion:The findings suggest that M2 macrophages are associated with poor prognosis in breast cancer patients possibly by promoting tumor invasion and migration.This work may provide a new strategy for prognostic prediction and immunotherapy in BC.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82160842Clinical Research Project of Research Fund of Gansu Provincial Hospital,No.23GSSYD-17.
文摘Gastrointestinal stromal tumors(GIST)are the most common mesenchymalderived tumors of the GI tract.They can occur throughout the GI tract,and the survival time of some patients can be improved by first-line targeted therapy with imatinib.However,there are some limitations with imatinib treatment.Immunotherapy for GIST has attracted much attention in recent years,and as one of the most abundant cells in the GIST microenvironment,M2 macrophages play an important role in disease progression.They have unique anti-inflammatory and pro-tumorigenic effects and are one target for immunotherapy.This review summarizes the connection between different factors and the programmed death receptor-1/programmed death ligand-1 pathway and M2 macrophages to reactivate or enhance anti-tumor immunity and improve imatinib efficacy,and to provide new ideas for GIST immunotherapy.
