BACKGROUND:The lack of a stable,easy-to-operate animal model for severe trauma has hindered the research progress.The aim of this study is to develop a mouse model that replicates the pathophysiological conditions of ...BACKGROUND:The lack of a stable,easy-to-operate animal model for severe trauma has hindered the research progress.The aim of this study is to develop a mouse model that replicates the pathophysiological conditions of severe trauma,providing a reliable research tool.METHODS:Male C57BL/6J mice(aged 8-10 weeks and weighting approximately 20 g)were used to establish the severe trauma model.Under anesthesia,a midshaft femoral fracture was created and packed with sterile cotton.A midline incision was made from the inguinal region to the sternum,exposing the abdominal organs for 30 min.The right femoral artery was cannulated to induce controlled blood loss at 30%,35%,40%,and 50%of the total blood volume.Survival rates were monitored for 24 h post-induction.In the mice that experienced 30%blood loss,the mean arterial pressure,body temperature,blood gas parameters,peripheral blood inflammatory markers,and major organ pathological changes were assessed.RESULTS:Mice with femoral fractures,soft tissue injuries,abdominal organ exposure,and 30%blood loss exhibited stable survival rates.Increased blood loss significantly reduced survival rates.Mean arterial pressure decreased initially,recovering within 0-15 min and returning to baseline by 50 min.Similarly,the body temperature decreased initially and gradually recovered to baseline within 50 min.Levels of peripheral blood inflammatory markers remained elevated for 12 h post-injury.Distant organs,including intestines,lungs,liver,spleen and kidneys,displayed varying degrees of injury.CONCLUSION:The established mouse model replicates the pathophysiological responses to severe trauma,indicating stability and reproducibility,which could be an useful tool for further trauma research.展开更多
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis(IPF),characterized by aggravated alveolar destruc-tion and fibrotic matrix deposition,tendentiously experiences the stage called acute exacerbation IPF(AE-IPF)and progresses to multiple o...Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis(IPF),characterized by aggravated alveolar destruc-tion and fibrotic matrix deposition,tendentiously experiences the stage called acute exacerbation IPF(AE-IPF)and progresses to multiple organ damage,especially liver injury.Recent studies have found a variety of immune microenvironment disorders associated with elevated IPF risk and secondary organ injury,whereas current animal models induced with bleomycin(BLM)could not completely reflect the pathologi-cal manifestations of AE-IPF patients in clinic,and the exact underlying mechanisms are not yet fully explored.In the current study,we established an AE-IPF model by tracheal administration of a single dose of BLM and then repeated administrations of lipopolysaccharide in mice.This mouse model successfully recapitulated the clinical features of AE-IPF,including excessive intrapulmonary inflammation and fibrosis and extrapulmonary manifestations,as indicated by significant upregulation of Il6,Tnfa,Il1b,Tgfb,fibronectin,and Col1a1 in both lungs and liver and elevated serum aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase levels.These effects might be attributed to the regulation of Th17 cells.By sharing this novel murine model,we expect to pro-vide an appropriate experimental platform to investigate the pathogenesis of AE-IPF coupled with liver injury and contribute to the discovery and development of targeted interventions.展开更多
BACKGROUND Acetaminophen overdose is the most frequent cause of drug-induced liver failure in developed countries.Substantial progress has been made in understanding the mechanism of hepatocellular injury,but N-acetyl...BACKGROUND Acetaminophen overdose is the most frequent cause of drug-induced liver failure in developed countries.Substantial progress has been made in understanding the mechanism of hepatocellular injury,but N-acetylcysteine remains the only effective treatment despite its short therapeutic window.Thus,other hepatoprotective drugs are needed for the delayed treatment of acetaminopheninduced hepatotoxicity.Our interest focused on glycyrrhizin for its role as an inhibitor of high mobility group box 1(HMGB1)protein,a member of the family of damage-associated molecular pattern,known to play an important pathological role in various diseases.AIM To investigate the efficacy of the N-acetylcysteine/glycyrrhizin combination compared to N-acetylcysteine alone in the prevention of liver toxicity.METHODS Eight-week-old C57BL/6J wild-type female mice were used for all our experiments.Mice fasted for 15 h were treated with acetaminophen(500 mg/kg)or vehicle(phosphate-buffered saline)by intraperitoneal injection and separated into the following groups:Glycyrrhizin(200 mg/kg);N-acetylcysteine(150 mg/kg);and N-acetylcysteine/glycyrrhizin.In all groups,mice were sacrificed 12 h following acetaminophen administration.The assessment of hepatotoxicity was performed by measuring plasma levels of alanine aminotransferase,aspartate aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase.Hepatotoxicity was also evaluated by histological examination of hematoxylin and eosin-stained tissues sections.Survival rates were compared between various groups using Kaplan-Meier curves.RESULTS Consistent with data published in the literature,we confirmed that intraperitoneal administration of acetaminophen(500 mg/kg)in mice induced severe liver injury as evidenced by increases in alanine aminotransferase,aspartate aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase but also by liver necrosis score.Glycyrrhizin administration was shown to reduce the release of HMGB1 and significantly decreased the severity of liver injury.Thus,the co-administration of glycyrrhizin and N-acetylcysteine was investigated.Administered concomitantly with acetaminophen,the combination significantly reduced the severity of liver injury.Delayed administration of the combination of drugs,2 h or 6 h after acetaminophen,also induced a significant decrease in hepatocyte necrosis compared to mice treated with N-acetylcysteine alone.In addition,administration of N-acetylcysteine/glycyrrhizin combination was associated with an improved survival rate compared to mice treated with only N-acetylcysteine.CONCLUSION We demonstrate that,compared to N-acetylcysteine alone,co-administration of glycyrrhizin decreases the liver necrosis score and improves survival in a murine model of acetaminophen-induced liver injury.Our study opens a potential new therapeutic pathway in the prevention of acetaminophen hepatotoxicity.展开更多
Homeostasis of platelet number in human and other mammals is well maintained for prevention of minor bleeding and for other im- munological functions, but the exact molecular mechanism responsible for immune thrombocy...Homeostasis of platelet number in human and other mammals is well maintained for prevention of minor bleeding and for other im- munological functions, but the exact molecular mechanism responsible for immune thrombocytopenic purpura （ITP） has not been fully understood. In an effort to identify genetic factors involved in initiation of platelet production in response to bleeding injury or platelet destruction, we have successfully generated an animal model of human ITP via intraperitoneal injection of anti-platelet antibody into the Balb/c mouse. Platelet counts were dropped dramatically in animals that received antibody injection within 4 h, maintained at the mini- mum level for a period of 44 h, started to rebound after 48 h, and reached to the maximum at 144 h （6 days）. Final homeostasis reached at approximately 408 h （17 days）, following a minor cycle of platelet number fluctuation. Using semi-quantitative RT-PCR, we assessed and compared mRNA level of CD41, c-myb, c-mpl, caspase-3, caspase-9, GATA-1, and Bcl-xl in bone marrow and spleen. Alteration of mRNA expression was correlated with the change of platelet level, and an inverse relationship was found for expression of the genes be- tween bone marrow and spleen. No transcription was detectable for any of the seven genes in bone marrow at the time when platelet number reached the maximum （144 h）. In contrast, mRNA transcripts of the seven genes were found to be at the highest level in spleen tissue. This is the first study of simultaneous detection of multiple platelet related genes in a highly reproducible ITP animal model. Our results provided the supportive evidence that expression of the above seven genes are more related to negative regulation of platelet number in spleen tissue, at least in the model animals.展开更多
Modern warfare has caused a large number of severe extremity injuries, many of which become infected. In more recent conflicts, a pattern of co-infection with Acinetobacter baumannii and methicillin-resistant Staphylo...Modern warfare has caused a large number of severe extremity injuries, many of which become infected. In more recent conflicts, a pattern of co-infection with Acinetobacter baumannii and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus has emerged. We attempted to recreate this pattern in an animal model to evaluate the role of vascularity in contaminated open fractures. Historically, it has been observed that infected bones frequently appear hypovascular, but vascularity in association with bone infection has not been examined in animal models. Adult rats underwent femur fracture and muscle crush injury followed by stabilization and bacterial contamination with A. baumannii complex and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.Vascularity and perfusion were assessed by micro CT angiography and SPECT scanning, respectively, at 1, 2 and 4 weeks after injury. Quantitative bacterial cultures were also obtained. Multi-bacterial infections were successfully created, with methicillin-resistant S. aureus predominating. There was overall increase in blood flow to injured limbs that was markedly greater in bacteria-inoculated limbs. Vessel volume was greater in the infected group. Quadriceps atrophy was seen in both groups, but was greater in the infected group. In this animal model, infected open fractures had greater perfusion and vascularity than non-infected limbs.展开更多
Background:Osteosarcoma is the most common malignant primary bone tumor.The prognosis for patients with disseminated disease remains very poor despite recent advancements in chemotherapy.Moreover,current treatment reg...Background:Osteosarcoma is the most common malignant primary bone tumor.The prognosis for patients with disseminated disease remains very poor despite recent advancements in chemotherapy.Moreover,current treatment regimens bear a significant risk of serious side effects.Thus,there is an unmet clinical need for effective therapies with improved safety profiles.Taurolidine is an antibacterial agent that has been shown to induce cell death in different types of cancer cell lines.Methods:In this study,we examined both the antineoplastic and antiangiogenic effects of taurolidine in animal models of osteosarcoma.K7M2 murine osteosarcoma cells were injected,both intramuscular and intraperitoneal,into 60 BALB/c mice on day zero.Animals were then randomized to receive treatment with taurolidine 2%(800 mg/kg),taurolidine 1%(400 mg/kg),or NaCl 0.9%control for seven days by intravenous or intraperitoneal administration.Results:After 35 days,mice were euthanized,and the tumors were harvested for analysis.Eighteen mice were excluded from the analysis due to complications.Body weight was significantly lower in the 2%taurolidine intraperitoneal treatment group from day 9 to 21,consistent with elevated mortality in this group.Intraperitoneal tumor weight was significantly lower in the 1%(p=0.003)and 2%(p=0.006)intraperitoneal taurolidine treatment groups compared to the control.No antineoplastic effects were observed on intramuscular tumors or for intravenous administration of taurolidine.There were no significant differences in microvessel density or mitotic rate between treatment groups.Reduced body weight and elevated mortality in the 2%taurolidine intraperitoneal group suggest that the lower 1%dose is preferable.Conclusions:In conclusion,there is no evidence of antiangiogenic activity,and the antitumor effects of taurolidine on osteosarcoma observed in this study are limited.Moreover,its toxic profile grants further evaluation.Given these observations,further research is necessary to refine the use of taurolidine in osteosarcoma treatment.展开更多
The γc cytokines play an important role in proliferation and survival of T cells. Blocking the γc signals can cause the activated donor-reactive T cells losing the ability to proliferate, and getting into apoptosis ...The γc cytokines play an important role in proliferation and survival of T cells. Blocking the γc signals can cause the activated donor-reactive T cells losing the ability to proliferate, and getting into apoptosis pathway, which contributes to induction of the peripheral tolerance. In this study, we induced the transplant tolerance through blocking the γc in combination with donor-specific transfusion (DST) in the cardiac transplantation. Following DST, on the day 2, 4 and 6, C57BL/6 recipients received anti-γc monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) injection, and those in control group were not given anti-γc mAbs. On the day 7, Balb/c cardiac allografts were transplanted. All recipients in experimental group accepted cardiac allografts over 30 days, and two of them accepted allografts without rejection until sacrifice on the 120 day. Animals only receiving DST rejected grafts within 5 days, and the mice receiving cardiac transplantation alone rejected grafts within 9 days. Our study showed that blockade of γc signaling combined with DST significantly prolonged allograft survival, which was probably associated with inhibition of antigen-specific T-cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis.展开更多
Background Asthma is a chronic airway disease with inflammation characterized by physiological changes （airway hyper-responsiveness, AHR） and pathological changes （inflammatory cells infiltration and mucus product...Background Asthma is a chronic airway disease with inflammation characterized by physiological changes （airway hyper-responsiveness, AHR） and pathological changes （inflammatory cells infiltration and mucus production）. Eosinophils play a key role in the allergic inflammation. But the causative relationship between eosinophils and airway inflammation is hard to prove. One of the reasons is lack of activation marker of murine eosinophils. We investigated the expression of CD69 on murine eosinophils in vitro, the relationship between the expression of CD69 on eosinophils from peripheral blood and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and on airway inflammation in asthmatic mice. Methods Eosinophils from peripheral blood of IL-5 transgenic mice （NJ.1638） were purified. Mice were divided into five groups： wild type mice sensitized and challenged with saline （WS group）, wild type mice sensitized and challenged with ovalbumin （WO group）, IL-5^-/- mice sensitized and challenged with saline and transferred with purified eosinophils （ISE group）, IL-5^-/- mice sensitized and challenged with OVA and transferred with purified eosinophils （IOE group）, IL-5^-/- mice sensitized and challenged with OVA and transferred with purified eosinophils, pretreated with anti CD4 monoclonal antibody （IOE＋antiCD4mAb group）. IL-5^-/- mice were sensitized with OVA at day 0 and day 14, then challenged with OVA aerosol. On days 24, 25, 26 and 27 purified eosinophils were transferred intratracheally to IL-5^-/- mice. On day 28, blood and BALF were collected and CD69 expression on eosinophils measured by flowcytometry. Results Purified eosinophils did not express CD69. But eosinophils cultured with PMA＋MA, IFN- T, IL-5 or GM-CSF expressed CD69 strongly. Eosinophils from blood of WO, WS group did not express CD69 at all. The numbers of eosinophils in BALF of WO group, IOE group, ISE group and IOE＋antiCD4mAb group were significantly higher than in mice of WS group which did not have eosinophils at all. CD69 expression on eosinophils in BALF of IOE and WO groups was strong. Eosinophils in BALF of ISE and IOE＋antiCDmAb groups did not express CD69. The mucus production result was similar to CD69 expression. There were eosinophils infiltration in lung slides of all groups except WS group. Conclusion Activation in airway of eosinophils could directly lead to airway inflammation.展开更多
Dengue virus(DENV)is a single-stranded RNA virus transmitted by mosquitoes in tropical and subtropical regions.It causes dengue fever,dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome in patients.Each year,390 millio...Dengue virus(DENV)is a single-stranded RNA virus transmitted by mosquitoes in tropical and subtropical regions.It causes dengue fever,dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome in patients.Each year,390 million people are estimated to be infected by four serotypes of dengue virus,creating a great burden on global public health and local economy.So far,no antiviral drug is available for dengue disease,and the newly licensed vaccine is far from satisfactory.One large obstacle for dengue vaccine and drug development is the lack of suitable small animal models.Although some DENV infection models have been developed,only a small number of viral strains can infect immunodeficient mice.In this study,with biologically cloned viruses from a single clinical isolate,we have established two mouse models of DENV infection,one is severe lethal infection in immunocompromised mice,and the other resembles self-limited disease manifestations in Balb/c mice with transient blockage of type I IFN responses.This study not only offers new small animal models of dengue viral infection,but also provides new viral variants for further investigations on dengue viral pathogenesis.展开更多
Proteinase-activated receptors(PARs)are a novel subclass of seven transmembrane-spanning,G protein-coupled receptors.PAR-1 and PAR-2 are widely expressed in a variety of cells and are found to be involved in many phys...Proteinase-activated receptors(PARs)are a novel subclass of seven transmembrane-spanning,G protein-coupled receptors.PAR-1 and PAR-2 are widely expressed in a variety of cells and are found to be involved in many physiological and pathological processes includ-ing inflammation and immune response.However,little is known about the function of PAR-1,2 in acute graft vs host disease(GVHD).In the present study,wefirst detected the expression of PAR-1,2 protein and mRNA in a murine model of acute GVHD using the methods of immunohis-tochemistry,Western blot and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(PCR).Syngeneic hematopoie-tic stem cell transplantation(HSCT)mice served as controls.The relative gene expression level of PAR-1 was significantly increased in the skin,liver,small intestine of allogeneic HSCT mice(in skin:0.039�0.013 vs 0.008�0.002 of controls,P=0.009;in liver:0.165�0.006 vs 0.017�0.006 of controls,P=0.004;in small intestine:0.215�0.009 vs 0.016�0.002 of con-trols,P=0.003),but not in the stomach,lung and kidney of allogeneic HSCT mice(P>0.05).PAR-2 mRNA expression in the liver and small intestine of allogeneic HSCT mice(in liver:0.010�0.002 vs 0.003�0.001 of controls,P=0.008;in small intestine:0.006�0.001 vs 0.003�0.001 of controls,P=0.024)was increased significantly,but PAR-2 mRNA expression in the other organs(P>0.05)was not found to be significantly elevated.PAR-1,2 protein expression was in accordance with the mRNA expression,as shown by Western blot.Using immunohistochemistry the present study demon-strated that there was strong PAR-1,2 immunoreactivity in the epithelial cell and vascular endothelial cell of target organs of acute GVHD.Ourfindings of markedly increased expression of PAR-1,2 in target organs of acute GVHD suggest that PAR-1 and PAR-2 may play an important role in the pathogenesis of acute GVHD.展开更多
Background: Mechanical ventilation (hit one) during surgery (hit two) is often needed and both induce an inflammatory response. Dysregulation of the inflammatory response can cause chronic postoperative pain. Methods:...Background: Mechanical ventilation (hit one) during surgery (hit two) is often needed and both induce an inflammatory response. Dysregulation of the inflammatory response can cause chronic postoperative pain. Methods: Healthy C57BL6 mice (n = 56) were mechanically ventilated (MV) and allocated to receive sham (MV-sham) or mechanically ventilation with chronic constriction injury (MV-CCI) surgery in the left hind paw. Plasma interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-10, keratinocyte derived chemokine (KC) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α were determined on day 0 and 16. Sensory testing was performed on day 0, 3, 7 and 16 by cold plate test (number of lifts (NOL) and cumulative reaction time (CRT)) and von Frey test. The effect of lidocaine on cytokines and sensory testing was analyzed. Results: MV-Sham showed an increase in IL-1β and TNF-α, and MV- CCI-lido increased levels of KC compared with MV on day 0. No difference in cytokine levels was observed on day 16. NOL of the left paw versus the right was increased in MV-CCI on day 7, and in MV-CCI-lido on day 7 and 16. The NOL of the left paw was decreased in MV-sham and MV-CCI-lido compared with MV-CCI on day 16. The CRT of the left paw was increased for MV-CCI on day 3 and 7, and for MV-CCI-lido on day 7. On day 16, MV-sham and MV-CCI-lido showed a decreased CRT of the left paw compared with MV-CCI. Conclusion: Nerve injury and not systemic inflammatory response seems mandatory for development of neuropathic pain in this “two-hit” model. Lidocaine attenuates cold allodynia in mice.展开更多
BACKGROUND Skin wounds are common injuries that affect quality of life and incur high costs.A considerable portion of healthcare resources in Western countries is allocated to wound treatment,mainly using mechanical,b...BACKGROUND Skin wounds are common injuries that affect quality of life and incur high costs.A considerable portion of healthcare resources in Western countries is allocated to wound treatment,mainly using mechanical,biological,or artificial dressings.Biological and artificial dressings,such as hydrogels,are preferred for their biocompatibility.Platelet concentrates,such as platelet-rich plasma(PRP)and platelet-rich fibrin(PRF),stand out for accelerating tissue repair and minimizing risks of allergies and rejection.This study developed PRF and PRP-based dressings to treat skin wounds in an animal model,evaluating their functionality and efficiency in accelerating the tissue repair process.AIM To develop wound dressings based on platelet concentrates and evaluating their efficiency in treating skin wounds in Wistar rats.METHODS Wistar rats,both male and female,were subjected to the creation of a skin wound,distributed into groups(n=64/group),and treated with Carbopol(negative control);PRP+Carbopol;PRF+Carbopol;or PRF+CaCl_(2)+Carbopol,on days zero(D0),D3,D7,D14,and D21.PRP and PRF were obtained only from male rats.On D3,D7,D14,and D21,the wounds were analyzed for area,contraction rate,and histopathology of the tissue repair process.RESULTS The PRF-based dressing was more effective in accelerating wound closure early in the tissue repair process(up to D7),while PRF+CaCl_(2) seemed to delay the process,as wound closure was not complete by D21.Regarding macroscopic parameters,animals treated with PRF+CaCl_(2) showed significantly more crusting(necrosis)early in the repair process(D3).In terms of histopathological parameters,the PRF group exhibited significant collagenization at the later stages of the repair process(D14 and D21).By D21,fibroblast proliferation and inflammatory infiltration were higher in the PRP group.Animals treated with PRF+CaCl_(2) experienced a more pronounced inflammatory response up to D7,which diminished from D14 onwards.CONCLUSION The PRF-based dressing was effective in accelerating the closure of cutaneous wounds in Wistar rats early in the process and in aiding tissue repair at the later stages.展开更多
The pro-inflammation factor high-mobility group box protein 1 （HMGB1） has been implicated in the pathogenesis of asthma. In this study, we used a murine model of chronic asthma to evaluate the effects of HMGB 1 on a...The pro-inflammation factor high-mobility group box protein 1 （HMGB1） has been implicated in the pathogenesis of asthma. In this study, we used a murine model of chronic asthma to evaluate the effects of HMGB 1 on airway remodeling. Female BALB/c mice were randomly divided into four groups： control, ovalbumin （OVA） asthmatic, OVA＋ isotype antibody and OVA＋anti-HMGB 1 antibody. Anti-HMGB 1 antibody therapy was started on day 21 and was administered three times per week for 6 weeks before intranasal challenge with OVA. In this mouse model, HMGB1 expression is significantly elevated. The anti-HMGB1 antibody group exhibited decreased levels of immunoglobulin E （IgE） and inflammatory mediators and reduced inflammatory cell accumulation, airway hyperresponsiveness （AHR）, mucus synthesis, smooth muscle thickness and lung collagen content compared with the OVA groups. Treatment with HMGB1 increased proliferation, migration, collagen secretion and a-smooth muscle actin （SMA） expression in MRC-5 ceils. Treatment with the HMGB1/IL-1β complex significantly increased the expression and secretion of transforming growth factor （TGF-βl）, matrix metalloproteinase （MMP）-9 and vascular endothelial growth factor （VEGF）. Altogether, these results suggest that blocking HMGB1 activity may reverse airway remodeling by suppressing airway inflammation and modulating lung fibroblast phenotype and activation.展开更多
The subcutaneous air pouch model has been used extensively to study the pathophysiology of inflammatory conditions such as joint diseases and the potential efficacy of pharmacological treatments in vivo.Delivery of ai...The subcutaneous air pouch model has been used extensively to study the pathophysiology of inflammatory conditions such as joint diseases and the potential efficacy of pharmacological treatments in vivo.Delivery of air between the subcutaneous and dermal layer of the intra-scapular zone of the rodent generates an environment analogous to the synovial joint space.Introduction of monosodium urate crystals or calcium pyrophosphate crystals into the air space produces a sterile acute inflammatory response mimicking clinical gout and pseudogout,respectively.The inflammatory response can be quantitatively and robustly evaluated by measuring leukocyte infiltration,inflammatory cytokine production,eicosanoid release,complement activation and reactive oxygen species generation.Despite the utility of this model,great variation exists within the literature regarding the design,sampling time points,and endpoints measured.This systematic review summarizes the current literature on the subcutaneous air pouch model studying monosodium urate or calcium pyrophosphate crystals and provides recommendations for standardizing and improving the reliability and validity of this model.Standardizing the experimental approach would improve inter-study comparability,increase the internal validity of studies and reproducibility of results,and ultimately improve the understanding of gout and pseudogout and accelerate the discovery of new pharmacological therapies.展开更多
To investigate the expression of vaginal Th1 and Th2 cytokines in rats with experimental vaginal candidiasis under different immune conditions, ICR murine vaginal candidiasis model was established and immno-suppressed...To investigate the expression of vaginal Th1 and Th2 cytokines in rats with experimental vaginal candidiasis under different immune conditions, ICR murine vaginal candidiasis model was established and immno-suppressed murine models of vaginal cadidiasis were established in estrogen-treated mice. Non-estrogen-treated mice were used as controls. The mRNA level of Th1 （IL-2）/Th2 （IL-4, IL-10, TGF-β1） cytokines in murine vaginal tissues was determined by RT-PCR. The cykotine in local tissues was increased to different extent under normal immune condition. IL-2 mRNA was increased during early stage of infection, while IL-10 was increased transiently during late stage of infection. TGF-β1 production was found to be increased persistently. At same time, the expression of IL-2 mRNA was suppressed in immno-suppressed group, and the level of IL-4, IL-10, and TGF-β1 were higher than the normal immunity group to different degree during infection. The high level of IL-2 mRNA during early stage of infection was associated with clearance of mucosal Candidia albicans （C. albicans）, and its expression suppressed leading to decreased clearance of mucosal C. albican in immuno-suppression. The over-expression of IL-4 and IL-10 could significantly enhance the susceptibility to C. albicans infection in mice.展开更多
To compare the therapeutic effects of three different anti-fungal drugs （i.e., terbinafine, fluconazole and intraconazole） in the treatment of experimental vaginitis caused by Candida albicans （C. albicans） in mic...To compare the therapeutic effects of three different anti-fungal drugs （i.e., terbinafine, fluconazole and intraconazole） in the treatment of experimental vaginitis caused by Candida albicans （C. albicans） in mice, the fungal vaginitis model was established in female ICR mice by intravaginal inoculation of suspension of C. albicans after the animal had been pretreated with estradiol. Mice were divided at random into different groups and then respectively treated with terbinafine, fluconazole and intraconazole given by gastrogavage. The burden of the fungus in the vaginal lavage fluids in the mice of the different groups was measured dynamically at different time points after the beginning of the drug treatment. The fungal burdens in the vaginal lavage fluids taken at different time points from the mice treated with terbinafine were significantly higher than those taken at corresponding time points from mice treated with fluconazole or itraconazole （P〈0.01）. The fungal burdens in the vaginal lavage fluids taken from mice 1 week after the beginning of the treatment with terbinafine remained at a relatively high level. A dramatic drop in the fungal burden was noted in the vaginal lavage fluids taken on the 2nd day of the treatment from mice treated with itraconazole or fluconazole group and the fungal burden on the 3rd day of the treatment in these mice were at a very low level, suggesting that fluconazole or itraconazole were highly effective for the treatment. However, the difference in the therapeutic effect between the two drugs was not significant （P〉0.05）. Itraconazole or fluconazole, but not terbinafine, is very effective for the treatment of fungal vaginitis caused by C. albicans in mice.展开更多
In order to investigate the expression of Th1 and Th2 cytokines in the vaginal candidiasis caused by Candida, the fungal vaginitis model was established in female ICR mice by intravaginal inoculation of suspension of ...In order to investigate the expression of Th1 and Th2 cytokines in the vaginal candidiasis caused by Candida, the fungal vaginitis model was established in female ICR mice by intravaginal inoculation of suspension of C. albicans after the animals were pretreated with estradiol. Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction （RT-PCR） was used to detect the expression of IL-2, IL-4, IL-10 and TGF-β1 in the vagina in the mice of different groups at different time points after the beginning of the experiment. The average expression level of IL-2 mRNA in group D （estrogen-treated mice） was significantly higher than that in groups H （estrogen-untreated mice） and I （control group） on the day 2. The average expression level of IL-4 mRNA in group D was significantly higher than that in groups I and H on the day 5. The average expression level of IL-10 mRNA in group D was significantly higher than that in groups H and I from day 7 to 11. The average expression level of TGF-β1 mRNA in group D was significantly higher than that in groups H and I at all time points. It was concludes that the high-level expression of IL-2 mRNA during early infection was associated with clearance of mucosal C. albicans, and the high-level expression of IL-10 mRNA during late stage of the infection was related to susceptibility to infection. TGF-β1 may play a predominant role when the virtual absence of changes in other Th-type cytokines during infection.展开更多
Background:Spinal cord injury(SCI)is a devastating disease with no clear molecular mechanisms or effective treatments.Murine models of SCI have been widely used to explore its pathogenesis.Methods:In this study,a comp...Background:Spinal cord injury(SCI)is a devastating disease with no clear molecular mechanisms or effective treatments.Murine models of SCI have been widely used to explore its pathogenesis.Methods:In this study,a comprehensive bioinformatic analysis using GEO datasets was performed to evaluate the characteristics of different SCI models.Results:We found that the contusion model was similar to the compression model,with inflammation and apoptosis significantly enriched,while more complex biological processes existed in hemisection and transection model.Inflammatory markers can be used as a primary evaluation index of SCI models not only in the acute and subacute phases,but also in the chronic phase.In the meantime,apoptosis markers are more suitable for evaluating mouse SCI models while inflammatory markers are more suitable for rat SCI models.In addition,SCI models with different ages,genders,injury positions,and injury levels were also analyzed.Conclusion:Our findings indicate that SCI is a heterogeneous disease and play an instructive role in model selecting.展开更多
The cancer-associated anorexia-cachexia syndrome is observed in 80% of patients with advanced-stage cancer, and is one of the major obstacles in chemo- therapy. Ghrelin is a orexigenic hormone that has been proposed t...The cancer-associated anorexia-cachexia syndrome is observed in 80% of patients with advanced-stage cancer, and is one of the major obstacles in chemo- therapy. Ghrelin is a orexigenic hormone that has been proposed to prevent anorexia. Aim of the study was to determine whether the addition of the ghrelin agonist growth hormone releasing peptide 2 (GHRP-2) to cytotoxic therapy with 5-fluoruracil (5-FU) prevents the anorexia associated with chemotherapy in cancer cachectic mice. Thirty-three BALB/c female tumourbearing mice were randomized to receive a solution containing: (a) placebo; (b) GHRP-2; (c) 5-FU; or (d) 5-FU + GHRP-2. Ten BALB/c no tumour-bearing mice received placebo solution. Food intake and survival were checked. Six hours after the drug injection the cumulative food intake was signifi cantly increased in mice treated with the combination of 5-FU + GHRP-2 versus the 5-FU alone (P = 0.0096). On day 3, the cumulative food intake of mice treated with GHRP-2,5-FU and 5-FU + GHRP-2 signifi cantly increased com- pared with naive and vehicle groups (P = 0.0007, P = 0.0038 and P = 0.0166, respectively). The median survival time was longer in 5-FU + GHRP-2 treated mice than in those with 5-FU, although it was not signifi cant (18 d versus 15.5 d, P = 0.7). For the fi rst time, we demonstrated that the addition of GHRP-2 to cytotoxic therapy with 5-FU improved appetite in tumour-bearing mice with anorexia/cachexia syndrome in early stage. These data suggest that GHRP-2 may improve the effi cacy of therapy and the quality of life of cancer patients thank to the amelioration of their nutritional state.展开更多
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82102315).
文摘BACKGROUND:The lack of a stable,easy-to-operate animal model for severe trauma has hindered the research progress.The aim of this study is to develop a mouse model that replicates the pathophysiological conditions of severe trauma,providing a reliable research tool.METHODS:Male C57BL/6J mice(aged 8-10 weeks and weighting approximately 20 g)were used to establish the severe trauma model.Under anesthesia,a midshaft femoral fracture was created and packed with sterile cotton.A midline incision was made from the inguinal region to the sternum,exposing the abdominal organs for 30 min.The right femoral artery was cannulated to induce controlled blood loss at 30%,35%,40%,and 50%of the total blood volume.Survival rates were monitored for 24 h post-induction.In the mice that experienced 30%blood loss,the mean arterial pressure,body temperature,blood gas parameters,peripheral blood inflammatory markers,and major organ pathological changes were assessed.RESULTS:Mice with femoral fractures,soft tissue injuries,abdominal organ exposure,and 30%blood loss exhibited stable survival rates.Increased blood loss significantly reduced survival rates.Mean arterial pressure decreased initially,recovering within 0-15 min and returning to baseline by 50 min.Similarly,the body temperature decreased initially and gradually recovered to baseline within 50 min.Levels of peripheral blood inflammatory markers remained elevated for 12 h post-injury.Distant organs,including intestines,lungs,liver,spleen and kidneys,displayed varying degrees of injury.CONCLUSION:The established mouse model replicates the pathophysiological responses to severe trauma,indicating stability and reproducibility,which could be an useful tool for further trauma research.
基金supported by the Innovation Team and Talents Cultivation Program of the National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine(grant no.:ZYYCXTD-C-202006 to XG and Xiaojiaoyang Li)Beijing Municipal Science and Technology Commission(grant no.:7212174 to Xiaojiaoyang Li)+2 种基金National Natural Science Foundation of China(grant no.:82004045 to Xiaojiaoyang Li)Beijing Nova Program of Science and Technology(grant no.:Z191100001119088 to Xiaojiaoyang Li)the Young Elite Scientists Sponsorship Program by CACM(grant no.:2020-QNRC2-01 to Xiaojiaoyang Li).
文摘Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis(IPF),characterized by aggravated alveolar destruc-tion and fibrotic matrix deposition,tendentiously experiences the stage called acute exacerbation IPF(AE-IPF)and progresses to multiple organ damage,especially liver injury.Recent studies have found a variety of immune microenvironment disorders associated with elevated IPF risk and secondary organ injury,whereas current animal models induced with bleomycin(BLM)could not completely reflect the pathologi-cal manifestations of AE-IPF patients in clinic,and the exact underlying mechanisms are not yet fully explored.In the current study,we established an AE-IPF model by tracheal administration of a single dose of BLM and then repeated administrations of lipopolysaccharide in mice.This mouse model successfully recapitulated the clinical features of AE-IPF,including excessive intrapulmonary inflammation and fibrosis and extrapulmonary manifestations,as indicated by significant upregulation of Il6,Tnfa,Il1b,Tgfb,fibronectin,and Col1a1 in both lungs and liver and elevated serum aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase levels.These effects might be attributed to the regulation of Th17 cells.By sharing this novel murine model,we expect to pro-vide an appropriate experimental platform to investigate the pathogenesis of AE-IPF coupled with liver injury and contribute to the discovery and development of targeted interventions.
基金Supported by the Bourse du Conseil Médical de l’hôpital Erasme,Fonds E.et S.Jacobs and Novartis GrantThe CMMI is supported by the European Regional Development Fund and Wallonia
文摘BACKGROUND Acetaminophen overdose is the most frequent cause of drug-induced liver failure in developed countries.Substantial progress has been made in understanding the mechanism of hepatocellular injury,but N-acetylcysteine remains the only effective treatment despite its short therapeutic window.Thus,other hepatoprotective drugs are needed for the delayed treatment of acetaminopheninduced hepatotoxicity.Our interest focused on glycyrrhizin for its role as an inhibitor of high mobility group box 1(HMGB1)protein,a member of the family of damage-associated molecular pattern,known to play an important pathological role in various diseases.AIM To investigate the efficacy of the N-acetylcysteine/glycyrrhizin combination compared to N-acetylcysteine alone in the prevention of liver toxicity.METHODS Eight-week-old C57BL/6J wild-type female mice were used for all our experiments.Mice fasted for 15 h were treated with acetaminophen(500 mg/kg)or vehicle(phosphate-buffered saline)by intraperitoneal injection and separated into the following groups:Glycyrrhizin(200 mg/kg);N-acetylcysteine(150 mg/kg);and N-acetylcysteine/glycyrrhizin.In all groups,mice were sacrificed 12 h following acetaminophen administration.The assessment of hepatotoxicity was performed by measuring plasma levels of alanine aminotransferase,aspartate aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase.Hepatotoxicity was also evaluated by histological examination of hematoxylin and eosin-stained tissues sections.Survival rates were compared between various groups using Kaplan-Meier curves.RESULTS Consistent with data published in the literature,we confirmed that intraperitoneal administration of acetaminophen(500 mg/kg)in mice induced severe liver injury as evidenced by increases in alanine aminotransferase,aspartate aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase but also by liver necrosis score.Glycyrrhizin administration was shown to reduce the release of HMGB1 and significantly decreased the severity of liver injury.Thus,the co-administration of glycyrrhizin and N-acetylcysteine was investigated.Administered concomitantly with acetaminophen,the combination significantly reduced the severity of liver injury.Delayed administration of the combination of drugs,2 h or 6 h after acetaminophen,also induced a significant decrease in hepatocyte necrosis compared to mice treated with N-acetylcysteine alone.In addition,administration of N-acetylcysteine/glycyrrhizin combination was associated with an improved survival rate compared to mice treated with only N-acetylcysteine.CONCLUSION We demonstrate that,compared to N-acetylcysteine alone,co-administration of glycyrrhizin decreases the liver necrosis score and improves survival in a murine model of acetaminophen-induced liver injury.Our study opens a potential new therapeutic pathway in the prevention of acetaminophen hepatotoxicity.
文摘Homeostasis of platelet number in human and other mammals is well maintained for prevention of minor bleeding and for other im- munological functions, but the exact molecular mechanism responsible for immune thrombocytopenic purpura （ITP） has not been fully understood. In an effort to identify genetic factors involved in initiation of platelet production in response to bleeding injury or platelet destruction, we have successfully generated an animal model of human ITP via intraperitoneal injection of anti-platelet antibody into the Balb/c mouse. Platelet counts were dropped dramatically in animals that received antibody injection within 4 h, maintained at the mini- mum level for a period of 44 h, started to rebound after 48 h, and reached to the maximum at 144 h （6 days）. Final homeostasis reached at approximately 408 h （17 days）, following a minor cycle of platelet number fluctuation. Using semi-quantitative RT-PCR, we assessed and compared mRNA level of CD41, c-myb, c-mpl, caspase-3, caspase-9, GATA-1, and Bcl-xl in bone marrow and spleen. Alteration of mRNA expression was correlated with the change of platelet level, and an inverse relationship was found for expression of the genes be- tween bone marrow and spleen. No transcription was detectable for any of the seven genes in bone marrow at the time when platelet number reached the maximum （144 h）. In contrast, mRNA transcripts of the seven genes were found to be at the highest level in spleen tissue. This is the first study of simultaneous detection of multiple platelet related genes in a highly reproducible ITP animal model. Our results provided the supportive evidence that expression of the above seven genes are more related to negative regulation of platelet number in spleen tissue, at least in the model animals.
基金Department of Defense,Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program OR 090206 to SG.The Small Animal Phenotyping Core provided faxiotron and micro CT imaging (P30DK056336 and P30DK079626)
文摘Modern warfare has caused a large number of severe extremity injuries, many of which become infected. In more recent conflicts, a pattern of co-infection with Acinetobacter baumannii and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus has emerged. We attempted to recreate this pattern in an animal model to evaluate the role of vascularity in contaminated open fractures. Historically, it has been observed that infected bones frequently appear hypovascular, but vascularity in association with bone infection has not been examined in animal models. Adult rats underwent femur fracture and muscle crush injury followed by stabilization and bacterial contamination with A. baumannii complex and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.Vascularity and perfusion were assessed by micro CT angiography and SPECT scanning, respectively, at 1, 2 and 4 weeks after injury. Quantitative bacterial cultures were also obtained. Multi-bacterial infections were successfully created, with methicillin-resistant S. aureus predominating. There was overall increase in blood flow to injured limbs that was markedly greater in bacteria-inoculated limbs. Vessel volume was greater in the infected group. Quadriceps atrophy was seen in both groups, but was greater in the infected group. In this animal model, infected open fractures had greater perfusion and vascularity than non-infected limbs.
文摘Background:Osteosarcoma is the most common malignant primary bone tumor.The prognosis for patients with disseminated disease remains very poor despite recent advancements in chemotherapy.Moreover,current treatment regimens bear a significant risk of serious side effects.Thus,there is an unmet clinical need for effective therapies with improved safety profiles.Taurolidine is an antibacterial agent that has been shown to induce cell death in different types of cancer cell lines.Methods:In this study,we examined both the antineoplastic and antiangiogenic effects of taurolidine in animal models of osteosarcoma.K7M2 murine osteosarcoma cells were injected,both intramuscular and intraperitoneal,into 60 BALB/c mice on day zero.Animals were then randomized to receive treatment with taurolidine 2%(800 mg/kg),taurolidine 1%(400 mg/kg),or NaCl 0.9%control for seven days by intravenous or intraperitoneal administration.Results:After 35 days,mice were euthanized,and the tumors were harvested for analysis.Eighteen mice were excluded from the analysis due to complications.Body weight was significantly lower in the 2%taurolidine intraperitoneal treatment group from day 9 to 21,consistent with elevated mortality in this group.Intraperitoneal tumor weight was significantly lower in the 1%(p=0.003)and 2%(p=0.006)intraperitoneal taurolidine treatment groups compared to the control.No antineoplastic effects were observed on intramuscular tumors or for intravenous administration of taurolidine.There were no significant differences in microvessel density or mitotic rate between treatment groups.Reduced body weight and elevated mortality in the 2%taurolidine intraperitoneal group suggest that the lower 1%dose is preferable.Conclusions:In conclusion,there is no evidence of antiangiogenic activity,and the antitumor effects of taurolidine on osteosarcoma observed in this study are limited.Moreover,its toxic profile grants further evaluation.Given these observations,further research is necessary to refine the use of taurolidine in osteosarcoma treatment.
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Sciences Foundation of China (No. 30500468 and 30700768)
文摘The γc cytokines play an important role in proliferation and survival of T cells. Blocking the γc signals can cause the activated donor-reactive T cells losing the ability to proliferate, and getting into apoptosis pathway, which contributes to induction of the peripheral tolerance. In this study, we induced the transplant tolerance through blocking the γc in combination with donor-specific transfusion (DST) in the cardiac transplantation. Following DST, on the day 2, 4 and 6, C57BL/6 recipients received anti-γc monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) injection, and those in control group were not given anti-γc mAbs. On the day 7, Balb/c cardiac allografts were transplanted. All recipients in experimental group accepted cardiac allografts over 30 days, and two of them accepted allografts without rejection until sacrifice on the 120 day. Animals only receiving DST rejected grafts within 5 days, and the mice receiving cardiac transplantation alone rejected grafts within 9 days. Our study showed that blockade of γc signaling combined with DST significantly prolonged allograft survival, which was probably associated with inhibition of antigen-specific T-cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis.
基金This work was partially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 30570807).
文摘Background Asthma is a chronic airway disease with inflammation characterized by physiological changes （airway hyper-responsiveness, AHR） and pathological changes （inflammatory cells infiltration and mucus production）. Eosinophils play a key role in the allergic inflammation. But the causative relationship between eosinophils and airway inflammation is hard to prove. One of the reasons is lack of activation marker of murine eosinophils. We investigated the expression of CD69 on murine eosinophils in vitro, the relationship between the expression of CD69 on eosinophils from peripheral blood and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and on airway inflammation in asthmatic mice. Methods Eosinophils from peripheral blood of IL-5 transgenic mice （NJ.1638） were purified. Mice were divided into five groups： wild type mice sensitized and challenged with saline （WS group）, wild type mice sensitized and challenged with ovalbumin （WO group）, IL-5^-/- mice sensitized and challenged with saline and transferred with purified eosinophils （ISE group）, IL-5^-/- mice sensitized and challenged with OVA and transferred with purified eosinophils （IOE group）, IL-5^-/- mice sensitized and challenged with OVA and transferred with purified eosinophils, pretreated with anti CD4 monoclonal antibody （IOE＋antiCD4mAb group）. IL-5^-/- mice were sensitized with OVA at day 0 and day 14, then challenged with OVA aerosol. On days 24, 25, 26 and 27 purified eosinophils were transferred intratracheally to IL-5^-/- mice. On day 28, blood and BALF were collected and CD69 expression on eosinophils measured by flowcytometry. Results Purified eosinophils did not express CD69. But eosinophils cultured with PMA＋MA, IFN- T, IL-5 or GM-CSF expressed CD69 strongly. Eosinophils from blood of WO, WS group did not express CD69 at all. The numbers of eosinophils in BALF of WO group, IOE group, ISE group and IOE＋antiCD4mAb group were significantly higher than in mice of WS group which did not have eosinophils at all. CD69 expression on eosinophils in BALF of IOE and WO groups was strong. Eosinophils in BALF of ISE and IOE＋antiCDmAb groups did not express CD69. The mucus production result was similar to CD69 expression. There were eosinophils infiltration in lung slides of all groups except WS group. Conclusion Activation in airway of eosinophils could directly lead to airway inflammation.
基金supported in part by Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality(Grant No.19ZR1462900)the National Science Foundation of China(Grant No.31300757)the National Science Foundation of China(Grant No.31870916 and No.31670941)
文摘Dengue virus(DENV)is a single-stranded RNA virus transmitted by mosquitoes in tropical and subtropical regions.It causes dengue fever,dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome in patients.Each year,390 million people are estimated to be infected by four serotypes of dengue virus,creating a great burden on global public health and local economy.So far,no antiviral drug is available for dengue disease,and the newly licensed vaccine is far from satisfactory.One large obstacle for dengue vaccine and drug development is the lack of suitable small animal models.Although some DENV infection models have been developed,only a small number of viral strains can infect immunodeficient mice.In this study,with biologically cloned viruses from a single clinical isolate,we have established two mouse models of DENV infection,one is severe lethal infection in immunocompromised mice,and the other resembles self-limited disease manifestations in Balb/c mice with transient blockage of type I IFN responses.This study not only offers new small animal models of dengue viral infection,but also provides new viral variants for further investigations on dengue viral pathogenesis.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.30600570).
文摘Proteinase-activated receptors(PARs)are a novel subclass of seven transmembrane-spanning,G protein-coupled receptors.PAR-1 and PAR-2 are widely expressed in a variety of cells and are found to be involved in many physiological and pathological processes includ-ing inflammation and immune response.However,little is known about the function of PAR-1,2 in acute graft vs host disease(GVHD).In the present study,wefirst detected the expression of PAR-1,2 protein and mRNA in a murine model of acute GVHD using the methods of immunohis-tochemistry,Western blot and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(PCR).Syngeneic hematopoie-tic stem cell transplantation(HSCT)mice served as controls.The relative gene expression level of PAR-1 was significantly increased in the skin,liver,small intestine of allogeneic HSCT mice(in skin:0.039�0.013 vs 0.008�0.002 of controls,P=0.009;in liver:0.165�0.006 vs 0.017�0.006 of controls,P=0.004;in small intestine:0.215�0.009 vs 0.016�0.002 of con-trols,P=0.003),but not in the stomach,lung and kidney of allogeneic HSCT mice(P>0.05).PAR-2 mRNA expression in the liver and small intestine of allogeneic HSCT mice(in liver:0.010�0.002 vs 0.003�0.001 of controls,P=0.008;in small intestine:0.006�0.001 vs 0.003�0.001 of controls,P=0.024)was increased significantly,but PAR-2 mRNA expression in the other organs(P>0.05)was not found to be significantly elevated.PAR-1,2 protein expression was in accordance with the mRNA expression,as shown by Western blot.Using immunohistochemistry the present study demon-strated that there was strong PAR-1,2 immunoreactivity in the epithelial cell and vascular endothelial cell of target organs of acute GVHD.Ourfindings of markedly increased expression of PAR-1,2 in target organs of acute GVHD suggest that PAR-1 and PAR-2 may play an important role in the pathogenesis of acute GVHD.
文摘Background: Mechanical ventilation (hit one) during surgery (hit two) is often needed and both induce an inflammatory response. Dysregulation of the inflammatory response can cause chronic postoperative pain. Methods: Healthy C57BL6 mice (n = 56) were mechanically ventilated (MV) and allocated to receive sham (MV-sham) or mechanically ventilation with chronic constriction injury (MV-CCI) surgery in the left hind paw. Plasma interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-10, keratinocyte derived chemokine (KC) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α were determined on day 0 and 16. Sensory testing was performed on day 0, 3, 7 and 16 by cold plate test (number of lifts (NOL) and cumulative reaction time (CRT)) and von Frey test. The effect of lidocaine on cytokines and sensory testing was analyzed. Results: MV-Sham showed an increase in IL-1β and TNF-α, and MV- CCI-lido increased levels of KC compared with MV on day 0. No difference in cytokine levels was observed on day 16. NOL of the left paw versus the right was increased in MV-CCI on day 7, and in MV-CCI-lido on day 7 and 16. The NOL of the left paw was decreased in MV-sham and MV-CCI-lido compared with MV-CCI on day 16. The CRT of the left paw was increased for MV-CCI on day 3 and 7, and for MV-CCI-lido on day 7. On day 16, MV-sham and MV-CCI-lido showed a decreased CRT of the left paw compared with MV-CCI. Conclusion: Nerve injury and not systemic inflammatory response seems mandatory for development of neuropathic pain in this “two-hit” model. Lidocaine attenuates cold allodynia in mice.
文摘BACKGROUND Skin wounds are common injuries that affect quality of life and incur high costs.A considerable portion of healthcare resources in Western countries is allocated to wound treatment,mainly using mechanical,biological,or artificial dressings.Biological and artificial dressings,such as hydrogels,are preferred for their biocompatibility.Platelet concentrates,such as platelet-rich plasma(PRP)and platelet-rich fibrin(PRF),stand out for accelerating tissue repair and minimizing risks of allergies and rejection.This study developed PRF and PRP-based dressings to treat skin wounds in an animal model,evaluating their functionality and efficiency in accelerating the tissue repair process.AIM To develop wound dressings based on platelet concentrates and evaluating their efficiency in treating skin wounds in Wistar rats.METHODS Wistar rats,both male and female,were subjected to the creation of a skin wound,distributed into groups(n=64/group),and treated with Carbopol(negative control);PRP+Carbopol;PRF+Carbopol;or PRF+CaCl_(2)+Carbopol,on days zero(D0),D3,D7,D14,and D21.PRP and PRF were obtained only from male rats.On D3,D7,D14,and D21,the wounds were analyzed for area,contraction rate,and histopathology of the tissue repair process.RESULTS The PRF-based dressing was more effective in accelerating wound closure early in the tissue repair process(up to D7),while PRF+CaCl_(2) seemed to delay the process,as wound closure was not complete by D21.Regarding macroscopic parameters,animals treated with PRF+CaCl_(2) showed significantly more crusting(necrosis)early in the repair process(D3).In terms of histopathological parameters,the PRF group exhibited significant collagenization at the later stages of the repair process(D14 and D21).By D21,fibroblast proliferation and inflammatory infiltration were higher in the PRP group.Animals treated with PRF+CaCl_(2) experienced a more pronounced inflammatory response up to D7,which diminished from D14 onwards.CONCLUSION The PRF-based dressing was effective in accelerating the closure of cutaneous wounds in Wistar rats early in the process and in aiding tissue repair at the later stages.
基金This study was supported by the Scientific Research and Technological Development Program Project of Guangxi Province （10124001A-32）, the Young Science Foundation of Guangxi Medical University （GXMUSF201206） and the Innovation Project of Guangxi Graduate Education （YCBZ2013014）.
文摘The pro-inflammation factor high-mobility group box protein 1 （HMGB1） has been implicated in the pathogenesis of asthma. In this study, we used a murine model of chronic asthma to evaluate the effects of HMGB 1 on airway remodeling. Female BALB/c mice were randomly divided into four groups： control, ovalbumin （OVA） asthmatic, OVA＋ isotype antibody and OVA＋anti-HMGB 1 antibody. Anti-HMGB 1 antibody therapy was started on day 21 and was administered three times per week for 6 weeks before intranasal challenge with OVA. In this mouse model, HMGB1 expression is significantly elevated. The anti-HMGB1 antibody group exhibited decreased levels of immunoglobulin E （IgE） and inflammatory mediators and reduced inflammatory cell accumulation, airway hyperresponsiveness （AHR）, mucus synthesis, smooth muscle thickness and lung collagen content compared with the OVA groups. Treatment with HMGB1 increased proliferation, migration, collagen secretion and a-smooth muscle actin （SMA） expression in MRC-5 ceils. Treatment with the HMGB1/IL-1β complex significantly increased the expression and secretion of transforming growth factor （TGF-βl）, matrix metalloproteinase （MMP）-9 and vascular endothelial growth factor （VEGF）. Altogether, these results suggest that blocking HMGB1 activity may reverse airway remodeling by suppressing airway inflammation and modulating lung fibroblast phenotype and activation.
文摘The subcutaneous air pouch model has been used extensively to study the pathophysiology of inflammatory conditions such as joint diseases and the potential efficacy of pharmacological treatments in vivo.Delivery of air between the subcutaneous and dermal layer of the intra-scapular zone of the rodent generates an environment analogous to the synovial joint space.Introduction of monosodium urate crystals or calcium pyrophosphate crystals into the air space produces a sterile acute inflammatory response mimicking clinical gout and pseudogout,respectively.The inflammatory response can be quantitatively and robustly evaluated by measuring leukocyte infiltration,inflammatory cytokine production,eicosanoid release,complement activation and reactive oxygen species generation.Despite the utility of this model,great variation exists within the literature regarding the design,sampling time points,and endpoints measured.This systematic review summarizes the current literature on the subcutaneous air pouch model studying monosodium urate or calcium pyrophosphate crystals and provides recommendations for standardizing and improving the reliability and validity of this model.Standardizing the experimental approach would improve inter-study comparability,increase the internal validity of studies and reproducibility of results,and ultimately improve the understanding of gout and pseudogout and accelerate the discovery of new pharmacological therapies.
基金the Science Research Foundation of Health Department of Hubei Prov-ince (No. JXIB048)Janssen Research Foundation
文摘To investigate the expression of vaginal Th1 and Th2 cytokines in rats with experimental vaginal candidiasis under different immune conditions, ICR murine vaginal candidiasis model was established and immno-suppressed murine models of vaginal cadidiasis were established in estrogen-treated mice. Non-estrogen-treated mice were used as controls. The mRNA level of Th1 （IL-2）/Th2 （IL-4, IL-10, TGF-β1） cytokines in murine vaginal tissues was determined by RT-PCR. The cykotine in local tissues was increased to different extent under normal immune condition. IL-2 mRNA was increased during early stage of infection, while IL-10 was increased transiently during late stage of infection. TGF-β1 production was found to be increased persistently. At same time, the expression of IL-2 mRNA was suppressed in immno-suppressed group, and the level of IL-4, IL-10, and TGF-β1 were higher than the normal immunity group to different degree during infection. The high level of IL-2 mRNA during early stage of infection was associated with clearance of mucosal Candidia albicans （C. albicans）, and its expression suppressed leading to decreased clearance of mucosal C. albican in immuno-suppression. The over-expression of IL-4 and IL-10 could significantly enhance the susceptibility to C. albicans infection in mice.
基金This project was supported by grants from the Science Research Foundation of Health Department of Hubei Province (No. JXIB048)the Janssen Research Foundation
文摘To compare the therapeutic effects of three different anti-fungal drugs （i.e., terbinafine, fluconazole and intraconazole） in the treatment of experimental vaginitis caused by Candida albicans （C. albicans） in mice, the fungal vaginitis model was established in female ICR mice by intravaginal inoculation of suspension of C. albicans after the animal had been pretreated with estradiol. Mice were divided at random into different groups and then respectively treated with terbinafine, fluconazole and intraconazole given by gastrogavage. The burden of the fungus in the vaginal lavage fluids in the mice of the different groups was measured dynamically at different time points after the beginning of the drug treatment. The fungal burdens in the vaginal lavage fluids taken at different time points from the mice treated with terbinafine were significantly higher than those taken at corresponding time points from mice treated with fluconazole or itraconazole （P〈0.01）. The fungal burdens in the vaginal lavage fluids taken from mice 1 week after the beginning of the treatment with terbinafine remained at a relatively high level. A dramatic drop in the fungal burden was noted in the vaginal lavage fluids taken on the 2nd day of the treatment from mice treated with itraconazole or fluconazole group and the fungal burden on the 3rd day of the treatment in these mice were at a very low level, suggesting that fluconazole or itraconazole were highly effective for the treatment. However, the difference in the therapeutic effect between the two drugs was not significant （P〉0.05）. Itraconazole or fluconazole, but not terbinafine, is very effective for the treatment of fungal vaginitis caused by C. albicans in mice.
基金grants from the science Research Foundation of Health Department of Hubei Province,China (No. JXIB048)the Janssen Research Foundation
文摘In order to investigate the expression of Th1 and Th2 cytokines in the vaginal candidiasis caused by Candida, the fungal vaginitis model was established in female ICR mice by intravaginal inoculation of suspension of C. albicans after the animals were pretreated with estradiol. Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction （RT-PCR） was used to detect the expression of IL-2, IL-4, IL-10 and TGF-β1 in the vagina in the mice of different groups at different time points after the beginning of the experiment. The average expression level of IL-2 mRNA in group D （estrogen-treated mice） was significantly higher than that in groups H （estrogen-untreated mice） and I （control group） on the day 2. The average expression level of IL-4 mRNA in group D was significantly higher than that in groups I and H on the day 5. The average expression level of IL-10 mRNA in group D was significantly higher than that in groups H and I from day 7 to 11. The average expression level of TGF-β1 mRNA in group D was significantly higher than that in groups H and I at all time points. It was concludes that the high-level expression of IL-2 mRNA during early infection was associated with clearance of mucosal C. albicans, and the high-level expression of IL-10 mRNA during late stage of the infection was related to susceptibility to infection. TGF-β1 may play a predominant role when the virtual absence of changes in other Th-type cytokines during infection.
基金supported by the National Key R&D Program of China(2018AAA0100300,R.X.and 2018AAA0100302,R.X.)National Natural Science Foundation of China(81870909,R.X.,82071315,R.X.,82271342,R.X.and 82171381,J.Y.)Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality(21002411700,J.Y.).
文摘Background:Spinal cord injury(SCI)is a devastating disease with no clear molecular mechanisms or effective treatments.Murine models of SCI have been widely used to explore its pathogenesis.Methods:In this study,a comprehensive bioinformatic analysis using GEO datasets was performed to evaluate the characteristics of different SCI models.Results:We found that the contusion model was similar to the compression model,with inflammation and apoptosis significantly enriched,while more complex biological processes existed in hemisection and transection model.Inflammatory markers can be used as a primary evaluation index of SCI models not only in the acute and subacute phases,but also in the chronic phase.In the meantime,apoptosis markers are more suitable for evaluating mouse SCI models while inflammatory markers are more suitable for rat SCI models.In addition,SCI models with different ages,genders,injury positions,and injury levels were also analyzed.Conclusion:Our findings indicate that SCI is a heterogeneous disease and play an instructive role in model selecting.
基金Supported by (in part) A Grant-in-Aid for Scientic Research (B:16390208) from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology of Japan (to A.I.)
文摘The cancer-associated anorexia-cachexia syndrome is observed in 80% of patients with advanced-stage cancer, and is one of the major obstacles in chemo- therapy. Ghrelin is a orexigenic hormone that has been proposed to prevent anorexia. Aim of the study was to determine whether the addition of the ghrelin agonist growth hormone releasing peptide 2 (GHRP-2) to cytotoxic therapy with 5-fluoruracil (5-FU) prevents the anorexia associated with chemotherapy in cancer cachectic mice. Thirty-three BALB/c female tumourbearing mice were randomized to receive a solution containing: (a) placebo; (b) GHRP-2; (c) 5-FU; or (d) 5-FU + GHRP-2. Ten BALB/c no tumour-bearing mice received placebo solution. Food intake and survival were checked. Six hours after the drug injection the cumulative food intake was signifi cantly increased in mice treated with the combination of 5-FU + GHRP-2 versus the 5-FU alone (P = 0.0096). On day 3, the cumulative food intake of mice treated with GHRP-2,5-FU and 5-FU + GHRP-2 signifi cantly increased com- pared with naive and vehicle groups (P = 0.0007, P = 0.0038 and P = 0.0166, respectively). The median survival time was longer in 5-FU + GHRP-2 treated mice than in those with 5-FU, although it was not signifi cant (18 d versus 15.5 d, P = 0.7). For the fi rst time, we demonstrated that the addition of GHRP-2 to cytotoxic therapy with 5-FU improved appetite in tumour-bearing mice with anorexia/cachexia syndrome in early stage. These data suggest that GHRP-2 may improve the effi cacy of therapy and the quality of life of cancer patients thank to the amelioration of their nutritional state.
