AIM: To investigate the expression and role of nuclear factor κB(NF-κB) in diabetic retinopathy(DR) and its relationship with neovascularization and retinal cell apoptosis. METHODS: A total of 80 male Wistar rats we...AIM: To investigate the expression and role of nuclear factor κB(NF-κB) in diabetic retinopathy(DR) and its relationship with neovascularization and retinal cell apoptosis. METHODS: A total of 80 male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to control(4, 8, 12 and 16 wk, n =10 in each group) and diabetes mellitus(DM) groups(4, 8, 12 and 16wk, n =10 in each group). A diabetic rat model was established by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin(60 mg/kg). After 4, 8, 12 and 16 wk, rats were sacrificed.Retinal layers and retinal neovascularization growth were stained with hematoxylin-eosin and examined under light microscopy. Cell apoptosis in the retina was detected by Td T-mediated d UTP nick end labeling, and NF-κB distribution and expression in the retina was determined using immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: DM model success rate up to 100%.Diabetes model at each time point after the experimental groupcompared with the control group, the blood glucose was significantly increased, decreased body weight, each time point showed significant differences compared with the control group(P 【0.01). After 12 wk other pathological changes in the retina of diabetic rats were observed; after 16 wk, neovascularization were observed. After 1mo, retinal cell apoptosis was observed.Compared with the control group, NF-κB expression in the DM group significantly increased with disease duration.CONCLUSION: With the prolonging of DM progression,the expression NF-κB increases. NF-κB may be related to retinal cell apoptosis and neovascularization.展开更多
The role of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and nuclear factor κB p65 (NF-κB p65) proteins in the pathogenesis of otitis media is explored. In recent years, the incidence of otitis media has been rising globally, becomi...The role of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and nuclear factor κB p65 (NF-κB p65) proteins in the pathogenesis of otitis media is explored. In recent years, the incidence of otitis media has been rising globally, becoming a significant threat to human health. More and more studies have found that Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), as a member of the Toll-like receptor family, can promote the generation of inflammatory factors and is closely related to the body’s immune response and inflammatory response. Nuclear factor-κB p65 (NF-κB p65) is a nuclear transcription factor that can interact with various cytokines, growth factors, and apoptotic factors, participating in processes such as oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation in the body [1]. This article elaborates on the structure, function, and signaling pathways of TLR4 and NF-κB p65 proteins in the pathogenesis of otitis media, aiming to provide more precise targets and better therapeutic efficacy for the diagnosis and treatment of otitis media. The role of inflammation in disease.展开更多
The transcription factor nuclear factor κB（NF-κB） plays major roles in inflammatory diseases through regulation of inflammation and cell viability.Multiple sclerosis（MS） is a chronic inflammatory demyelinating a...The transcription factor nuclear factor κB（NF-κB） plays major roles in inflammatory diseases through regulation of inflammation and cell viability.Multiple sclerosis（MS） is a chronic inflammatory demyelinating and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system（CNS）.It has been shown that NF-κB is activated in multiple cell types in the CNS of MS patients,including T cells,microglia/macrophages,astrocytes,oligodendrocytes,and neurons.Interestingly,data from animal model studies,particularly studies of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis,have suggested that NF-κB activation in these individual cell types has distinct effects on the development of MS.In this review,we will cover the current literature on NF-κB and the evidence for its role in the development of MS and its animal model experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis.展开更多
AIM： To determine the effect of ellagic acid on apoptosis and proliferation in pancreatic cancer cells and to determine the mechanism of the pro-survival effects of ellagic acid.METHODS： The effect of ellagic acid o...AIM： To determine the effect of ellagic acid on apoptosis and proliferation in pancreatic cancer cells and to determine the mechanism of the pro-survival effects of ellagic acid.METHODS： The effect of ellagic acid on apoptosis was assessed by measuring Phosphatidylserine externalization, caspase activity, mitochondrial membrane potential and DNA fragmentation; and proliferation by measuring DNA thymidine incorporation. Mitochondrial membrane potential was measured in permeabilized cells, and in isolated mitochondria. Nuclear factor κB （NF-κB） activity was measured by electromobility shift assay （EMSA）. RESULTS： We show that ellagic acid, a polyphenolic compound in fruits and berries, at concentrations 10 to 50 mmol/L stimulates apoptosis in human pancreatic adenocarcinoma cells. Further, ellagic acid decreases proliferation by up to 20-fold at 50 mmol/L. Ellagic acid stimulates the mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis associated with mitochondrial depolarization, cytochrome C release, and the downstream caspase activation. Ellagic acid does not directly affect mitochondria. Ellagic acid dose-dependently decreased NF-κB binding activity. Furthermore, inhibition of NF-κB activity using IkB wild type plasmid prevented the effect of ellagic acid on apoptosis. CONCLUSION： Our data indicate that ellagic acid stimulates apoptosis through inhibition of the prosurvival transcription factor NF-κB.展开更多
AIM: To investigate the role of nuclear factor κB(NF-κB) in the regulation of Epstein-Barr virus(EBV) latent membrane protein 1(LMP1) in EBV transformed cells. METHODS: LMP1 expression was examined in EBV transforme...AIM: To investigate the role of nuclear factor κB(NF-κB) in the regulation of Epstein-Barr virus(EBV) latent membrane protein 1(LMP1) in EBV transformed cells. METHODS: LMP1 expression was examined in EBV transformed human B lymphocytes with modulation of NF-κB activity. RESULTS: EBV infection is associated with several human cancers. EBV LMP1 is required for efficient transformation of adult primary B cells in vitro, and is expressed in several pathogenic stages of EBVassociated cancers. Regulation of EBV LMP1 involves both viral and cellular factors. LMP1 activates NF-κB signaling pathway that is a part of the EBV transformation program. However, the relation between NF-κB and LMP1 expression is not well established yet. In this report, we found that blocking the NF-κB activity by Inhibitor of κB stimulated LMP1 expression, while the overexpression of NF-κB repressed LMP1 expression in EBV-transformed IB4 cells. In addition, LMP1 repressed its own promoter activities in reporter assays, and the repression was associated with the activation of NF-κB. Moreover, NF-κB alone is sufficient to repress LMP1 promoter activities. CONCLUSION: Our data suggest LMP1 may repress its own expression through NF-κB in EBV transformed cells and shed a light on LMP1 regulation during EBV transformation.展开更多
Connexin 43 （Cx43） is the major structural protein of gap junctions in the ventricular myocardium and a major determinant of myocardial electrical properties. Cx43 expression is decreased in the wild type mice after...Connexin 43 （Cx43） is the major structural protein of gap junctions in the ventricular myocardium and a major determinant of myocardial electrical properties. Cx43 expression is decreased in the wild type mice after myocardial infarction and this effect is attenuated in MMP-7-/- mice. Matrix metalloproteinase expression is regulated at the transcription level by the modulation of the activation of transcription factors such as activator protein （AP）-I and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain enhancer of activated B cells （NF-KB）. Methods Rat myocardial cells （H9c2） were cultured and maintained at 37 ~C and 5% CO2. H9c2 cells in 6-well plates were treated with lipopolysaccharides （LPS）, NF-kB inhibitor （JSH 23, 30 μ, Santa Cruz） ＋ LPS and c-Jun N-terminal kinase （JNK） inhibitor （SP600125, 10μM, Sigma） ＋ LPS for 6, 12 and 24 h. Apoptosis rate of cells was determined by flow cytometry. Cx43 expression was assessed by Western blotting. Results LPS induced a time-dependent apoptosis in all cell line. We have found that the treatment with LPS induced increase of apoptosis in H9c2 cells at 6 h, 12 h and 24 h, but the effect was decreased by the addition of JSH-23 and SP600125 to LPS respectively （P 〈 0.05） . LPS resulted in decreased expression of Cx43 expression at 6 h, 12 h and 24 h. However, JSH-23 and SP600125 attenuated the loss of Cx43 respectively （P 〈 0.05）. Conclusion Transcription factors NF-kB and JNK/AP-1 signaling pathway participates in the regulation of LPS-induced Cx43 expression in the H9c2 cells, and maybe play an important role in regulation of Cx43 expression.展开更多
Objective To observe the different expression of NF-kBp65 and cyclinD1 during oral carcinogenesis and to analyze the relationship between the abnormal expression of NF-kBp65 , cyclinD1, and the occurrence and developm...Objective To observe the different expression of NF-kBp65 and cyclinD1 during oral carcinogenesis and to analyze the relationship between the abnormal expression of NF-kBp65 , cyclinD1, and the occurrence and development of oral carcinogenesis. Methods The streptavidin-biotin-peroxidase （S-P） immunohistochemical method was employed to detect the expression of NF-kBp65 and cyclinD1 protein in 38 rat tongue carcinogenesis specimens induced by 4-nitroquinoline 1-oxide. Results With the progress of tongue carcinogenesis, the expression of NF-kBp65, cyclinD1 was up-regulated. In normal, mild epithelial dysplasia, moderate epithelial dysplasia, severe epithelial dysplasia, carcinoma in situ and squamous cell carcinoma （SCC）, the positive rate of NF-kBp65 was 20%, 20%, 50%, 62.5%, 50% and 83.33%, respectively. There was significant differences between normal and SCC （ P 〈 0. 05 ） ; while the level of cyclinD1 was 20%, 60%, 62. 5%, 87. 5% , 100% and 83. 33%, respec- tively. There was significant differences between normal and severe epithelial dysplasia, carcinoma in situ and SCC （ P 〈0.01 or P 〈 0. 05 ）. There was a significant correlation between the increased levels of NF-kBp65, cyclinD1 and histopathological grade. The positive expression of NF-kBp65 was also associated with cyclinD1 in SCC （ r = 0. 7353, P 〈 0. 05 ）. Conclusion The up-expression of NF-kBp65 and cyclinD1 protein may be correlated to the occurrence and the development of oral carcinoma ; activated NF-kB plays an important role in the overexpression of cyclinD1. Furthermore, NF-kB and cyclinD1 may be the useful biomarker of oral precancerous lesion.展开更多
The aim was to investigate the molecular mechanisms responsible for the inducible nitric oxide synthase （iNOS） gene expression stimulated by lipid associated membrane proteins （LAMPs） of Ureaplasma urealytictan （...The aim was to investigate the molecular mechanisms responsible for the inducible nitric oxide synthase （iNOS） gene expression stimulated by lipid associated membrane proteins （LAMPs） of Ureaplasma urealytictan （ U. urealyticum ）. Detection of NO, the expression of iNOS and the activation of nuclear factor κB （NF-κB） in direct response to U. urealyticum LAMPs in a murine macrophages, the effects of pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate （PDTC）, an inhibitor of NF-κB and of cycloheximide （CHX）, a protein synthase inhibitor were available. The results indicated that U. urealyticum LAMPs stimulated mouse macrophages to express iNOS and thus produce NO in dose- and time-dependent manner by activating NF-κB. The expression of iNOS, NO production and the activation of NF-κB were inhibited by U. urealyticum LAMPs combination with PDTC or CHX. In conclusion, our findings suggest that U. urealyticum may be an etiological factor to certain diseases due to its ability to stimulate the expression of iNOS, which is probably mediated through the activation of NF-κB.展开更多
Strokes include both ischemic stroke,which is mediated by a blockade or reduction in the blood supply to the brain,and hemorrhagic stroke,which comprises intracerebral hemorrhage and subarachnoid hemorrhage and is cha...Strokes include both ischemic stroke,which is mediated by a blockade or reduction in the blood supply to the brain,and hemorrhagic stroke,which comprises intracerebral hemorrhage and subarachnoid hemorrhage and is characterized by bleeding within the brain.Stroke is a lifethreatening cerebrovascular condition characterized by intricate pathophysiological mechanisms,including oxidative stress,inflammation,mitochondrial dysfunction,and neuronal injury.Critical transcription factors,such as nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 and nuclear factor kappa B,play central roles in the progression of stroke.Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 is sensitive to changes in the cellular redox status and is crucial in protecting cells against oxidative damage,inflammatory responses,and cytotoxic agents.It plays a significant role in post-stroke neuroprotection and repair by influencing mitochondrial function,endoplasmic reticulum stress,and lysosomal activity and regulating metabolic pathways and cytokine expression.Conversely,nuclear factor-kappa B is closely associated with mitochondrial dysfunction,the generation of reactive oxygen species,oxidative stress exacerbation,and inflammation.Nuclear factor-kappa B contributes to neuronal injury,apoptosis,and immune responses following stroke by modulating cell adhesion molecules and inflammatory mediators.The interplay between these pathways,potentially involving crosstalk among various organelles,significantly influences stroke pathophysiology.Advancements in single-cell sequencing and spatial transcriptomics have greatly improved our understanding of stroke pathogenesis and offer new opportunities for the development of targeted,individualized,cell typespecific treatments.In this review,we discuss the mechanisms underlying the involvement of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 and nuclear factor-kappa B in both ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke,with an emphasis on their roles in oxidative stress,inflammation,and neuroprotection.展开更多
Pulpitis is a common infective oral disease in clinical situations.The regulatory mechanisms of immune defense in pulpitis are still being investigated.Osteomodulin(OMD)is a small leucine-rich proteoglycan family memb...Pulpitis is a common infective oral disease in clinical situations.The regulatory mechanisms of immune defense in pulpitis are still being investigated.Osteomodulin(OMD)is a small leucine-rich proteoglycan family member distributed in bones and teeth.It is a bioactive protein that promotes osteogenesis and suppresses the apoptosis of human dental pulp stem cells(hDPSCs).In this study,the role of OMD in pulpitis and the OMD-induced regulatory mechanism were investigated.The OMD expression in normal and inflamed human pulp tissues was detected via immunofluorescence staining.Intriguingly,the OMD expression decreased in the inflammatory infiltration area of pulpitis specimens.The cellular experiments demonstrated that recombined human OMD could resist the detrimental effects of lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-induced inflammation.A conditional Omd knockout mouse model with pulpal inflammation was established.LPS-induced inflammatory impairment significantly increased in conditional Omd knockout mice,whereas OMD administration exhibited a protective effect against pulpitis.Mechanistically,the transcriptome alterations of OMD overexpression showed significant enrichment in the nuclear factor-κB(NF-κB)signaling pathway.Interleukin-1 receptor 1(IL1R1),a vital membrane receptor activating the NF-κB pathway,was significantly downregulated in OMD-overexpressing hDPSCs.Additionally,the interaction between OMD and IL1R1 was verified using co-immunoprecipitation and molecular docking.In vivo,excessive pulpal inflammation in Omd-deficient mice was rescued using an IL1R antagonist.Overall,OMD played a protective role in the inflammatory response via the IL1R1/NF-κB signaling pathway.OMD may optimize the immunomodulatory functions of hDPSCs and can be used for regenerative endodontics.展开更多
BACKGROUND Rosmarinic acid(RA)is a natural polyphenol carboxylic acid known for its role in chemoprevention.Given its widespread use as a food additive,we are interested in whether RA affects the development of colore...BACKGROUND Rosmarinic acid(RA)is a natural polyphenol carboxylic acid known for its role in chemoprevention.Given its widespread use as a food additive,we are interested in whether RA affects the development of colorectal cancer(CRC).AIM To examine the anti-tumor effects of RA on various CRC cell lines,and to further investigate the possible mechanisms.METHODS Cell Counting Kit-8 assay and optical microscopy imaging were used to evaluate the viability of CRC cell lines.Western blot,quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction,and flow cytometry analyses were performed to assess cell viability and activation of nuclear factor-kappa B(NF-κB)signaling.Molecular modeling was used to assess the interaction between RA and inhibitory kappa B kinase beta.Luciferase assay was used to examine the activity of NF-κB-driven transcription.The combinations of RA with 5-fluorouracil or oxaliplatin were utilized to evaluate the potential synergistic action of RA with the chemotherapeutics.RESULTS RA exerted potent cytotoxic actions on all six CRC cell lines examined.RA was docked nicely into the binding pocket of inhibitory kappa B kinase beta by molecular modeling.The activity of NF-κB-driven luciferase and the phosphorylation of NF-κB p65 were decreased after exposure to the compound.Lipopolysaccharide-induced NF-κB activation was effectively inhibited by RA,too.Further,RA downregulated the expression of cell proliferationrelated cyclin D1 and MYC,which are target genes of NF-κB.Of note,the cytotoxic actions of 5-fluorouracil and oxaliplatin were markedly enhanced by RA in those CRC cells.CONCLUSION Our results indicate that RA inhibits NF-κB signaling and induces apoptosis in CRC cells.It enhances the cytotoxic actions of chemotherapeutics and might help to improve the chemotherapy of CRC.展开更多
BACKGROUND Radiation induced pulmonary fibrosis(RIPF)is a long-term lung condition with a bleak outlook and few treatment possibilities.Mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs)-derived exosomes(MSCs-exosomes)possess tissue repair...BACKGROUND Radiation induced pulmonary fibrosis(RIPF)is a long-term lung condition with a bleak outlook and few treatment possibilities.Mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs)-derived exosomes(MSCs-exosomes)possess tissue repair and regenerative pro-perties,but their exact mechanisms in RIPF remain unclear.This study explores whether MSCs-exosomes can alleviate RIPF by modulating inflammation,ex-tracellular matrix(ECM)accumulation,and epithelial-mesenchymal transition(EMT)via the protein kinase B(Akt)/nuclear factor kappa B(NF-κB)pathway.Sprague-Dawley rats were received 30 Gy X-ray radiation on the right chest to induce RIPF,while RLE-6TN and BEAS-2B cell lines were exposed to 10 Gy X-rays.Using differential centrifugation,MSCs-exosomes were isolated,and their protective effects were examined both in vivo and in vitro.Inflammatory cytokine concentrations were measured using Luminex liquid chip detection and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay.ECM and EMT-related proteins were analyzed using immunohistochemistry,western blotting,and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction.Western blotting and immunohistochemistry were also used to investigate the mechanisms underlying MSCs-exosomes’effects in RIPF.RESULTS Administration of MSCs-exosomes significantly mitigated RIPF,reduced collagen deposition,and decreased levels of various inflammatory cytokines.Additionally,MSCs-exosomes prevented radiation-induced ECM accumulation and EMT.Treatment with MSCs-exosomes notably promoted cell proliferation,suppressed inflammation,and reversed ECM deposition and EMT in radiation-exposed alveolar epithelial cells.Mechanistic analysis further revealed that MSCs-exosomes exerted their anti-RIPF effects by inhibiting the Akt/NF-κB pathway,as shown in both in vivo and in vitro models.CONCLUSION MSCs-exosomes mitigate RIPF by suppressing inflammation,ECM deposition,and EMT through Akt/NF-κB inhibition,highlighting their potential as a therapeutic strategy.展开更多
BACKGROUND Mesenchymal stromal cells(MSCs)are renowned for their immunosuppressive properties,which make them widely used in managing excessive inflammation.Although CD146+and CD146-MSCs exhibit similar morphological ...BACKGROUND Mesenchymal stromal cells(MSCs)are renowned for their immunosuppressive properties,which make them widely used in managing excessive inflammation.Although CD146+and CD146-MSCs exhibit similar morphological traits and surface marker expression levels,the specific characteristics and differential regulatory mechanisms of these two subtypes remain poorly understood.This knowledge gap has limited the precise application of MSCs in targeted thera-peutic strategies.AIM To compare the functional differences between CD146+and CD146-MSCs and investigate the underlying mechanisms.METHODS In this study,magnetic beads were used to sort umbilical cord-derived MSCs into CD146+and CD146-subsets.The pro-angiogenic factors(hepatocyte growth factor,prostaglandin E2,vascular endothelial growth factor,angiopoietin-1)production and immunomodulatory effects on T lymphocyte subsets were evaluated in vitro.The therapeutic efficacy was assessed in an acute respiratory distress syndrome(ARDS)mouse model via tail vein injection.RESULTS Cytokine secretion and angiogenesis:CD146+MSCs significantly increased the production of hepatocyte growth factor,prostaglandin E2,vascular endothelial growth factor,and angiopoietin-1 and exhibited increased pro-angiogenic activity in vitro.Immunomodulatory effects:CD146+MSCs potently inhibited the differentiation and proliferation of pro-inflammatory T helper type 1/T helper type 17 cells while promoting the expansion of regulatory T cells during T lymphocyte activation.ARDS therapy:In a mouse ARDS model,compared with CD146-MSCs,CD146+MSCs demonstrated superior therapeutic efficacy,as evidenced by improved clinical scores.Mechanistically,CD146+MSCs activated the nuclear factor kappa B pathway,upregulated cyclooxygenase 2 expression,and facilitated damaged epithelial cell repair.CONCLUSION CD146+MSCs show stronger ARDS therapeutic potential than CD146-MSCs via pro-angiogenic/immunomodulatory traits.Nuclear factor kappa B/cyclooxygenase 2 activation aids epithelial repair,highlighting CD146+MSCs as promising targets.展开更多
BACKGROUND Erianin is a natural bibenzyl compound extracted from Dendrobium chrysotoxum and is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.AIM To explore the possible therapeutic mechanisms of erianin a...BACKGROUND Erianin is a natural bibenzyl compound extracted from Dendrobium chrysotoxum and is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.AIM To explore the possible therapeutic mechanisms of erianin and determine if it can reduce cardiac damage in mice with type 2 diabetes.METHODS High-fat diet and intraperitoneal injections of streptozotocin were used to induce type 2 diabetes mellitus in C57BL/6 mice.Mice were divided into different groups including control,model,and treatment with various doses of erianin(10,20,and 40 mg/kg)as well as ML-385+erianin group.RESULTS Erianin reduced oxidative stress and inflammation and alleviated diabetic cardiomyopathy through the activation of the adenosine monophosphate-acti-vated protein kinase(AMPK)-nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2(Nrf2)-heme oxygenase-1(HO-1)pathway.Treatments with erianin-M and erianin-H promoted weight stabilization and normalized fasting glucose levels relative to diabetic controls.Echocardiographic assessment demonstrated that erianin dose-dependently enhanced left ventricular systolic function(left ventricular ejection fraction,left ventricular fractional shortening)and mitigated ventricular remodeling(left ventricular internal diameter at end-diastole,left ventricular internal diameter at end-systole;P<0.05 vs model group).No significant differences were observed between the ML-385+erianin and placebo-treated groups.Histopathological examination through hematoxylin-eosin staining indicated that erianin ameliorated myocardial fiber fragmentation,structural disorganization,inflammatory cell infiltration,and cytolytic damage.Furthermore,it significantly reduced the serum levels of cardiac troponin I,creatine kinase,and its MB isoenzyme.However,the ML-385+erianin co-treatment failed to alleviate myocardial injury.Metabolic profiling revealed erianin-mediated improvements in glycemic regulation(glycated hemoglobin:P<0.001),plasma insulin homeostasis,and lipid metabolism(total cholesterol,triglycerides,low-density lipo-protein cholesterol reduction,and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol restoration;P<0.05 vs model group).Pro-inflammatory cytokines including tumor necrosis factor-α,interleukin(IL)-1β,and IL-6 were markedly suppressed in the erianin-M and erianin-H groups compared with the model group,whereas no significant differences were detected between the model and ML-385+erianin groups.Oxidative stress parameters showed decreased malondialdehyde levels accompanied by elevated superoxide dismutase and catalase activities in erianin-treated groups,with the most pronounced effects in the erianin-H group(P<0.05).Western blot analysis confirmed the significant upregulation of proteins associated with the AMPK/Nrf2/HO-1 pathway in erianin-M and erianin-H groups.These protective effects were abolished in the ML-385+erianin co-treatment group,which showed no statistical differences from the model group.CONCLUSION Erianin can effectively alleviate myocardial injury in type 2 diabetic mice by activating the AMPK-Nrf2-HO-1 pathway.展开更多
BACKGROUND Excessive oxidative stress plays a key role in the development of diabetic complications,including impaired ulcer healing.Previous studies have shown that fish scale ointment can promote wound healing.AIM T...BACKGROUND Excessive oxidative stress plays a key role in the development of diabetic complications,including impaired ulcer healing.Previous studies have shown that fish scale ointment can promote wound healing.AIM To preliminarily investigate the effect of fish scale ointment on wound healing in a diabetic foot ulcer(DFU)rat model by examining its regulation of the nuclear factor E2-related factor 2(Nrf2)pathway and induction of ferroptosis.METHODS Fish scale ointment(collagen product)was prepared from 500 g of silver carp scales.A diabetic rat model was induced by high-fat and high-sugar feeding combined with intraperitoneal streptozotocin injections.For the DFU rat model,ulcer wounds were created by removing dorsal foot hair and cutting the skin to the fascia.The diabetic rats were randomized into five groups:Model,fish scale collagen(FSC),control+liproxstatin-1(Lip-1),model+Lip-1,and FSC+Lip-1.In each group,treatments were administered once daily by topical application and intraperitoneal injection for 14 days.Wound healing was evaluated on days 7 and 14 after treatment.Hematoxylin and eosin staining was used to assess wound injury and capillary formation.Basic fibroblast growth factor(bFGF)and CD31 levels in wound tissue were measured by immunohistochemistry.Additionally,malondialdehyde(MDA),glutathione(GSH),ferroptosis-associated genes,and iron ion concentrations were quantified using assay kits.Protein levels of Nrf2,heme oxygenase-1(HO-1),and glutathione peroxidase 4(GPX4)were determined using Western blotting.RESULTS Compared with the control group,the model group showed slower wound healing,reduced angiogenesis,decreased bFGF and CD31 levels,increased iron ion concentration and MDA levels,reduced GSH levels,and decreased Nrf2,HO-1,and GPX4 protein expression(all P<0.05).The FSC,model+Lip-1,and FSC+Lip-1 groups showed increased wound healing and angiogenesis,elevated bFGF and CD31 expression,lowered iron ion concentration and MDA levels,increased GSH levels,and enhanced Nrf2,HO-1,and GPX4 protein levels compared with the model group(P<0.05).Improvements were more pronounced in the FSC+Lip-1 group compared with the FSC group(P<0.05).CONCLUSION Fish scale ointment promotes angiogenesis and wound healing in DFU rat models by inhibiting ferroptosis,possibly through the activation of the Nrf2 pathway.展开更多
BACKGROUND Negative pressure wound therapy(NPWT)is a potential treatment for diabetic foot ulcers(DFUs),although the mechanisms underlying its effectiveness remain unclear.This study posits that NPWT may improve wound...BACKGROUND Negative pressure wound therapy(NPWT)is a potential treatment for diabetic foot ulcers(DFUs),although the mechanisms underlying its effectiveness remain unclear.This study posits that NPWT may improve wound healing by promoting angiogenesis and activating the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2(Nrf2)/Kelch-like epichlorohydrin-associated protein 1(Keap1)signaling pathway,which is crucial for the body’s defense against oxidative stress.The hypothesis indicates that enhancing antioxidant defenses through NPWT may positively affect the healing process.There are still limited data on the roles of Nrf2,its downstream signaling molecules,and angiogenesis markers in patients undergoing NPWT.AIM To study the mechanism of NPWT in DFUs.METHODS This study included a total of 40 hospitalized patients with DFUs from Xuzhou Central Hospital,who were divided into Control group(n=21)and NPWT group(n=19).The levels of Nrf2 and Keap1 were analyzed in the granulation tissue 7 days after treatment.The wound condition,erythrocyte sedimentation rate(ESR),procalcitonin(PCT),interleukin 6(IL-6),tumor necrosis factor alpha(TNF-α),vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF),basic fibroblast growth factor(b-FGF),cluster of differentiation 31(CD31),and levels of oxidative stress[malondialdehyde(MDA),superoxide dismutase(SOD),catalase(CAT),and total antioxidant capacity(T-AOC)]were analyzed before and 7 days after treatment by the Mann-Whitney U test.RESULTS The NPWT group demonstrated significant improvements in wound healing compared to the control group after 7 days of treatment.The levels of ESR,PCT,IL-6,and TNF-αwere significantly reduced in the NPWT group compared to the control group(P<0.05),while the levels of CD31,VEGF,and b-FGF showed significant increases(P<0.05).The NPWT group exhibited notable elevations in the levels of Nrf2 and its downstream targets(SOD,CAT,and T-AOC),accompanied by decreases in the levels of Keap1 and MDA(P<0.05).CONCLUSION NPWT may contribute to the healing of DFUs by potentially reducing levels of oxidative stress.Its effects could possibly be enhanced through the action of Nrf2.展开更多
Objective To investigate the mechanisms of catgut implantation at acupoints on ulcerative colitis. Methods Eighteen SD rats were randomly divided into a normal control group （NC）, a model group （MO） and a catgut i...Objective To investigate the mechanisms of catgut implantation at acupoints on ulcerative colitis. Methods Eighteen SD rats were randomly divided into a normal control group （NC）, a model group （MO） and a catgut implantation group （CI） with 6 rats in each group. Animals in group MO and group CI were treated by trinitro-benzene-sulfonic acid （TNBS） to establish model with colitis. No other treatment was given to the rats in group MO, but catgut was implanted at ＂Shàngjùxū＂ （上 巨虚 ST 37）, ＂Tiānshū＂ （天枢 ST 25） and ＂Dàchángshū＂ （大肠俞 BL 25） in the rats in group CI. The symptoms of diarrhea and bloody stool, and changes in histopathology were detected 15 days after the treatment. Expressions of splenic lymphocyte nuclear factor κB p65（NF-κB p65）and correlated signaling molecules（β2AR）were detected by the western blot method. Results Diarrhea and mucus bloody purulent stool were soon controlled, and mucous injures were obviously improved in group CI. The NF-κB p65 value of splenic lymphocytes was signifi cantly increased （P0.01） and expression of β2AR remarkably reduced in group MO （P0.01）, compared with group NC. But, the NF-κB p65 value was significantly decreased （P0.01） and expression of β2AR remarkably increased in group CI （P 0.01） , compared with group MO. Conclusion Catgut implantation at acupoints is obviously effective in treating experimental colitis. Modulation of NF-κB p65 and the correlated signaling molecules β2AR may be involved in the mechanisms.展开更多
A broad spectrum of liver disorders and their associated complications most notably hepatic encephalopathy impact millions of individuals worldwide,including conditions such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease,alcoho...A broad spectrum of liver disorders and their associated complications most notably hepatic encephalopathy impact millions of individuals worldwide,including conditions such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease,alcoholic liver injury,viral hepatitis,hepatic fibrosis,cirrhosis,and hepatocellular carcinoma.The underlying pathogenic mechanisms are multifactorial,encompassing oxidative stress,inflammatory cascades,mitochondrial impairment,and disturbances in immune homeostasis.Hepatic encephalopathy patients experience cognitive impairment,mood disturbances,and psychomotor dysfunction,significantly reducing quality of life through mechanisms including oxidative stress,neuroinflammation,and neurotransmitter imbalances.The nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2(Nrf2)/heme oxygenase-1(HO-1)signaling pathway serves as a critical antioxidative defense mechanism in these conditions.Nrf2 regulates the expression of protective enzymes,while HO-1 exerts anti-inflammatory,anti-apoptotic,and antifibrotic effects through heme degradation products.Natural herbal monomers as Nrf2 activators offer advantages of low toxicity,multi-target actions,and extensive traditional use.Various herbal monomers demonstrate specific effects against different liver diseases:In fatty liver,baicalin alleviates lipid accumulation and inflammation;In alcoholic liver disease,curcumin enhances Nrf2 activity reducing oxidative damage;In drug-induced liver injury,dihydromyricetin mitigates oxidative stress;In viral hepatitis,andrographolide inhibits hepatitis C virus replication;In liver fibrosis,multiple compounds inhibit stellate cell activation.These natural compounds simultaneously alleviate hepatic dysfunction and neuropsychiatric symptoms by modulating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway,though clinical application still faces challenges such as low bioavailability,requiring further research.展开更多
Colorectal cancer(CRC)is the third most common malignancy.However,the efficacy of current treatment strategies remains limited.In recent years,monomeric compounds from traditional Chinese medicine have received extens...Colorectal cancer(CRC)is the third most common malignancy.However,the efficacy of current treatment strategies remains limited.In recent years,monomeric compounds from traditional Chinese medicine have received extensive attention in cancer therapy.Rosmarinic acid(RA),a natural phenolic acid,has multiple biological activities and exhibits anti-oncogenic effects in several cancers.Liu et al previously uncovered that RA could serve as a dual-action therapeutic agent in CRC.By suppressing nuclear factor-kappa B signaling via direct inhibition of inhibitory kappa B kinase beta,RA not only impedes tumor progression but also synergizes with first-line chemotherapeutics(5-fluorouracil/oxaliplatin)to reverse drug resistance.The authors demonstrate RA’s capacity to downregulate nuclear factor-kappa B-driven oncogenes and enhance chemotherapeutic cytotoxicity in vitro through integrative approaches,including molecular docking,luciferase assays,and functional validation.While these findings position RA as a cost-effective adjuvant in precision oncology,critical clinical translational gaps remain,including optimizing RA’s in vivo bioavailability,validating systemic safety in combinatorial regimens,and elucidating its immunomodulatory effects within the tumor microenvironment.This underscores the urgency of bridging phytochemistry and clinical oncology,advocating for biomarker-driven animal studies and phase I trials to translate RA’s potential into actionable CRC therapies.By addressing these hurdles,RA could emerge as a paradigm-shifting agent,harmonizing natural product efficacy with modern therapeutic precision.展开更多
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease,characterized by pathological intracellular triglyceride(TG)accumulation,is mechanistically associated with the disrupted spatiotemporal regulation of hepatocyt...Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease,characterized by pathological intracellular triglyceride(TG)accumulation,is mechanistically associated with the disrupted spatiotemporal regulation of hepatocyte nuclear factor(HNF)-dependent transcriptional programs.HNFs,including key members such as HNF-1α,HNF-4α,and HNF-6,constitute a liver-enriched family of transcription factors that govern hepatic lipid metabolism through hierarchical transcriptional regulatory networks.These networks critically regulate the dynamic equilibrium of TG metabolism,encompassing TG synthesis,storage,lipolysis,and lipoprotein-mediated export.This review comprehensively deciphers the molecular cascades through which HNF dysfunction exacerbates TG metabolic disorder in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease.Additionally,we evaluate emerging translational strategies targeting key HNF regulatory nodes and discuss current clinical challenges as well as potential solutions.展开更多
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No.81371045) Shenyang Science and Technology Plan Project (No.F12-193-9-49)
文摘AIM: To investigate the expression and role of nuclear factor κB(NF-κB) in diabetic retinopathy(DR) and its relationship with neovascularization and retinal cell apoptosis. METHODS: A total of 80 male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to control(4, 8, 12 and 16 wk, n =10 in each group) and diabetes mellitus(DM) groups(4, 8, 12 and 16wk, n =10 in each group). A diabetic rat model was established by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin(60 mg/kg). After 4, 8, 12 and 16 wk, rats were sacrificed.Retinal layers and retinal neovascularization growth were stained with hematoxylin-eosin and examined under light microscopy. Cell apoptosis in the retina was detected by Td T-mediated d UTP nick end labeling, and NF-κB distribution and expression in the retina was determined using immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: DM model success rate up to 100%.Diabetes model at each time point after the experimental groupcompared with the control group, the blood glucose was significantly increased, decreased body weight, each time point showed significant differences compared with the control group(P 【0.01). After 12 wk other pathological changes in the retina of diabetic rats were observed; after 16 wk, neovascularization were observed. After 1mo, retinal cell apoptosis was observed.Compared with the control group, NF-κB expression in the DM group significantly increased with disease duration.CONCLUSION: With the prolonging of DM progression,the expression NF-κB increases. NF-κB may be related to retinal cell apoptosis and neovascularization.
文摘The role of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and nuclear factor κB p65 (NF-κB p65) proteins in the pathogenesis of otitis media is explored. In recent years, the incidence of otitis media has been rising globally, becoming a significant threat to human health. More and more studies have found that Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), as a member of the Toll-like receptor family, can promote the generation of inflammatory factors and is closely related to the body’s immune response and inflammatory response. Nuclear factor-κB p65 (NF-κB p65) is a nuclear transcription factor that can interact with various cytokines, growth factors, and apoptotic factors, participating in processes such as oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation in the body [1]. This article elaborates on the structure, function, and signaling pathways of TLR4 and NF-κB p65 proteins in the pathogenesis of otitis media, aiming to provide more precise targets and better therapeutic efficacy for the diagnosis and treatment of otitis media. The role of inflammation in disease.
基金supported by grants from the National Institutes of Health(NS094151 and NS105689)the National Multiple Sclerosis Society(RG5239-A-3)(to WL)
文摘The transcription factor nuclear factor κB（NF-κB） plays major roles in inflammatory diseases through regulation of inflammation and cell viability.Multiple sclerosis（MS） is a chronic inflammatory demyelinating and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system（CNS）.It has been shown that NF-κB is activated in multiple cell types in the CNS of MS patients,including T cells,microglia/macrophages,astrocytes,oligodendrocytes,and neurons.Interestingly,data from animal model studies,particularly studies of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis,have suggested that NF-κB activation in these individual cell types has distinct effects on the development of MS.In this review,we will cover the current literature on NF-κB and the evidence for its role in the development of MS and its animal model experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis.
基金the Department of Veterans Affairs Merit Review (to A.S.G), the Hirshberg foundation and the NIH/NCCAM (1P01AT003960-01)
文摘AIM： To determine the effect of ellagic acid on apoptosis and proliferation in pancreatic cancer cells and to determine the mechanism of the pro-survival effects of ellagic acid.METHODS： The effect of ellagic acid on apoptosis was assessed by measuring Phosphatidylserine externalization, caspase activity, mitochondrial membrane potential and DNA fragmentation; and proliferation by measuring DNA thymidine incorporation. Mitochondrial membrane potential was measured in permeabilized cells, and in isolated mitochondria. Nuclear factor κB （NF-κB） activity was measured by electromobility shift assay （EMSA）. RESULTS： We show that ellagic acid, a polyphenolic compound in fruits and berries, at concentrations 10 to 50 mmol/L stimulates apoptosis in human pancreatic adenocarcinoma cells. Further, ellagic acid decreases proliferation by up to 20-fold at 50 mmol/L. Ellagic acid stimulates the mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis associated with mitochondrial depolarization, cytochrome C release, and the downstream caspase activation. Ellagic acid does not directly affect mitochondria. Ellagic acid dose-dependently decreased NF-κB binding activity. Furthermore, inhibition of NF-κB activity using IkB wild type plasmid prevented the effect of ellagic acid on apoptosis. CONCLUSION： Our data indicate that ellagic acid stimulates apoptosis through inhibition of the prosurvival transcription factor NF-κB.
基金Supported by Grants from the NIH CA138213,RR15635Department of Defense W81XWH-12-1-0225(Luwen Zhang)Qianli Wang was partially supported by Undergraduate Creative Activities and Research Experiences and Beckman Scholars Program
文摘AIM: To investigate the role of nuclear factor κB(NF-κB) in the regulation of Epstein-Barr virus(EBV) latent membrane protein 1(LMP1) in EBV transformed cells. METHODS: LMP1 expression was examined in EBV transformed human B lymphocytes with modulation of NF-κB activity. RESULTS: EBV infection is associated with several human cancers. EBV LMP1 is required for efficient transformation of adult primary B cells in vitro, and is expressed in several pathogenic stages of EBVassociated cancers. Regulation of EBV LMP1 involves both viral and cellular factors. LMP1 activates NF-κB signaling pathway that is a part of the EBV transformation program. However, the relation between NF-κB and LMP1 expression is not well established yet. In this report, we found that blocking the NF-κB activity by Inhibitor of κB stimulated LMP1 expression, while the overexpression of NF-κB repressed LMP1 expression in EBV-transformed IB4 cells. In addition, LMP1 repressed its own promoter activities in reporter assays, and the repression was associated with the activation of NF-κB. Moreover, NF-κB alone is sufficient to repress LMP1 promoter activities. CONCLUSION: Our data suggest LMP1 may repress its own expression through NF-κB in EBV transformed cells and shed a light on LMP1 regulation during EBV transformation.
基金supported by the National Nature Science Foundation of China (81160152)
文摘Connexin 43 （Cx43） is the major structural protein of gap junctions in the ventricular myocardium and a major determinant of myocardial electrical properties. Cx43 expression is decreased in the wild type mice after myocardial infarction and this effect is attenuated in MMP-7-/- mice. Matrix metalloproteinase expression is regulated at the transcription level by the modulation of the activation of transcription factors such as activator protein （AP）-I and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain enhancer of activated B cells （NF-KB）. Methods Rat myocardial cells （H9c2） were cultured and maintained at 37 ~C and 5% CO2. H9c2 cells in 6-well plates were treated with lipopolysaccharides （LPS）, NF-kB inhibitor （JSH 23, 30 μ, Santa Cruz） ＋ LPS and c-Jun N-terminal kinase （JNK） inhibitor （SP600125, 10μM, Sigma） ＋ LPS for 6, 12 and 24 h. Apoptosis rate of cells was determined by flow cytometry. Cx43 expression was assessed by Western blotting. Results LPS induced a time-dependent apoptosis in all cell line. We have found that the treatment with LPS induced increase of apoptosis in H9c2 cells at 6 h, 12 h and 24 h, but the effect was decreased by the addition of JSH-23 and SP600125 to LPS respectively （P 〈 0.05） . LPS resulted in decreased expression of Cx43 expression at 6 h, 12 h and 24 h. However, JSH-23 and SP600125 attenuated the loss of Cx43 respectively （P 〈 0.05）. Conclusion Transcription factors NF-kB and JNK/AP-1 signaling pathway participates in the regulation of LPS-induced Cx43 expression in the H9c2 cells, and maybe play an important role in regulation of Cx43 expression.
基金Supported by Shanghai Science and Technology Commission,China (03JC14037)
文摘Objective To observe the different expression of NF-kBp65 and cyclinD1 during oral carcinogenesis and to analyze the relationship between the abnormal expression of NF-kBp65 , cyclinD1, and the occurrence and development of oral carcinogenesis. Methods The streptavidin-biotin-peroxidase （S-P） immunohistochemical method was employed to detect the expression of NF-kBp65 and cyclinD1 protein in 38 rat tongue carcinogenesis specimens induced by 4-nitroquinoline 1-oxide. Results With the progress of tongue carcinogenesis, the expression of NF-kBp65, cyclinD1 was up-regulated. In normal, mild epithelial dysplasia, moderate epithelial dysplasia, severe epithelial dysplasia, carcinoma in situ and squamous cell carcinoma （SCC）, the positive rate of NF-kBp65 was 20%, 20%, 50%, 62.5%, 50% and 83.33%, respectively. There was significant differences between normal and SCC （ P 〈 0. 05 ） ; while the level of cyclinD1 was 20%, 60%, 62. 5%, 87. 5% , 100% and 83. 33%, respec- tively. There was significant differences between normal and severe epithelial dysplasia, carcinoma in situ and SCC （ P 〈0.01 or P 〈 0. 05 ）. There was a significant correlation between the increased levels of NF-kBp65, cyclinD1 and histopathological grade. The positive expression of NF-kBp65 was also associated with cyclinD1 in SCC （ r = 0. 7353, P 〈 0. 05 ）. Conclusion The up-expression of NF-kBp65 and cyclinD1 protein may be correlated to the occurrence and the development of oral carcinoma ; activated NF-kB plays an important role in the overexpression of cyclinD1. Furthermore, NF-kB and cyclinD1 may be the useful biomarker of oral precancerous lesion.
文摘The aim was to investigate the molecular mechanisms responsible for the inducible nitric oxide synthase （iNOS） gene expression stimulated by lipid associated membrane proteins （LAMPs） of Ureaplasma urealytictan （ U. urealyticum ）. Detection of NO, the expression of iNOS and the activation of nuclear factor κB （NF-κB） in direct response to U. urealyticum LAMPs in a murine macrophages, the effects of pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate （PDTC）, an inhibitor of NF-κB and of cycloheximide （CHX）, a protein synthase inhibitor were available. The results indicated that U. urealyticum LAMPs stimulated mouse macrophages to express iNOS and thus produce NO in dose- and time-dependent manner by activating NF-κB. The expression of iNOS, NO production and the activation of NF-κB were inhibited by U. urealyticum LAMPs combination with PDTC or CHX. In conclusion, our findings suggest that U. urealyticum may be an etiological factor to certain diseases due to its ability to stimulate the expression of iNOS, which is probably mediated through the activation of NF-κB.
基金supported by grants from the Zhejiang Provincial TCM Science and Technology Plan Project,No.2023ZL156(to YH)Ningbo Top Medical and Health Research Program,No.2022020304(to XG)+1 种基金the Natural Science Foundation of Ningbo,No.2023J019(to YH)Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Atherosclerotic Diseases of Zhejiang Province,No.2022E10026(to YH)。
文摘Strokes include both ischemic stroke,which is mediated by a blockade or reduction in the blood supply to the brain,and hemorrhagic stroke,which comprises intracerebral hemorrhage and subarachnoid hemorrhage and is characterized by bleeding within the brain.Stroke is a lifethreatening cerebrovascular condition characterized by intricate pathophysiological mechanisms,including oxidative stress,inflammation,mitochondrial dysfunction,and neuronal injury.Critical transcription factors,such as nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 and nuclear factor kappa B,play central roles in the progression of stroke.Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 is sensitive to changes in the cellular redox status and is crucial in protecting cells against oxidative damage,inflammatory responses,and cytotoxic agents.It plays a significant role in post-stroke neuroprotection and repair by influencing mitochondrial function,endoplasmic reticulum stress,and lysosomal activity and regulating metabolic pathways and cytokine expression.Conversely,nuclear factor-kappa B is closely associated with mitochondrial dysfunction,the generation of reactive oxygen species,oxidative stress exacerbation,and inflammation.Nuclear factor-kappa B contributes to neuronal injury,apoptosis,and immune responses following stroke by modulating cell adhesion molecules and inflammatory mediators.The interplay between these pathways,potentially involving crosstalk among various organelles,significantly influences stroke pathophysiology.Advancements in single-cell sequencing and spatial transcriptomics have greatly improved our understanding of stroke pathogenesis and offer new opportunities for the development of targeted,individualized,cell typespecific treatments.In this review,we discuss the mechanisms underlying the involvement of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 and nuclear factor-kappa B in both ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke,with an emphasis on their roles in oxidative stress,inflammation,and neuroprotection.
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (82071104)Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality (23XD1434200/22Y21901000)+9 种基金Shanghai Hospital Development Center(SHDC12022120)National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases (NCRCO2021-omics-07)Shanghai Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases (19MC1910600)Major and Key Cultivation Projects of Ninth People’s Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (JYZP006)Shanghai’s Top Priority Research Center (2022ZZ01017)CAMS Innovation Fund for Medical Sciences (2019-I2M-5-037)Fundamental research program funding of Ninth People’s Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine(JYZZ237)Eastern Talent Plan Leading Project (BJZH2024001)partly supported by the Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital affiliated with Shanghai Jiao Tong University,School of Medicine(JYJC202223)Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine on Ear and Nose diseases (14DZ2260300)
文摘Pulpitis is a common infective oral disease in clinical situations.The regulatory mechanisms of immune defense in pulpitis are still being investigated.Osteomodulin(OMD)is a small leucine-rich proteoglycan family member distributed in bones and teeth.It is a bioactive protein that promotes osteogenesis and suppresses the apoptosis of human dental pulp stem cells(hDPSCs).In this study,the role of OMD in pulpitis and the OMD-induced regulatory mechanism were investigated.The OMD expression in normal and inflamed human pulp tissues was detected via immunofluorescence staining.Intriguingly,the OMD expression decreased in the inflammatory infiltration area of pulpitis specimens.The cellular experiments demonstrated that recombined human OMD could resist the detrimental effects of lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-induced inflammation.A conditional Omd knockout mouse model with pulpal inflammation was established.LPS-induced inflammatory impairment significantly increased in conditional Omd knockout mice,whereas OMD administration exhibited a protective effect against pulpitis.Mechanistically,the transcriptome alterations of OMD overexpression showed significant enrichment in the nuclear factor-κB(NF-κB)signaling pathway.Interleukin-1 receptor 1(IL1R1),a vital membrane receptor activating the NF-κB pathway,was significantly downregulated in OMD-overexpressing hDPSCs.Additionally,the interaction between OMD and IL1R1 was verified using co-immunoprecipitation and molecular docking.In vivo,excessive pulpal inflammation in Omd-deficient mice was rescued using an IL1R antagonist.Overall,OMD played a protective role in the inflammatory response via the IL1R1/NF-κB signaling pathway.OMD may optimize the immunomodulatory functions of hDPSCs and can be used for regenerative endodontics.
基金Supported by Natural Science Foundation of Heilongjiang Province of China Under Grant,No.PL2024H020High-Quality Innovation Platform of Science and Education Innovation Zone in Suzhou Industrial Park-Key Platform Project,No.YZCXPT2023104.
文摘BACKGROUND Rosmarinic acid(RA)is a natural polyphenol carboxylic acid known for its role in chemoprevention.Given its widespread use as a food additive,we are interested in whether RA affects the development of colorectal cancer(CRC).AIM To examine the anti-tumor effects of RA on various CRC cell lines,and to further investigate the possible mechanisms.METHODS Cell Counting Kit-8 assay and optical microscopy imaging were used to evaluate the viability of CRC cell lines.Western blot,quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction,and flow cytometry analyses were performed to assess cell viability and activation of nuclear factor-kappa B(NF-κB)signaling.Molecular modeling was used to assess the interaction between RA and inhibitory kappa B kinase beta.Luciferase assay was used to examine the activity of NF-κB-driven transcription.The combinations of RA with 5-fluorouracil or oxaliplatin were utilized to evaluate the potential synergistic action of RA with the chemotherapeutics.RESULTS RA exerted potent cytotoxic actions on all six CRC cell lines examined.RA was docked nicely into the binding pocket of inhibitory kappa B kinase beta by molecular modeling.The activity of NF-κB-driven luciferase and the phosphorylation of NF-κB p65 were decreased after exposure to the compound.Lipopolysaccharide-induced NF-κB activation was effectively inhibited by RA,too.Further,RA downregulated the expression of cell proliferationrelated cyclin D1 and MYC,which are target genes of NF-κB.Of note,the cytotoxic actions of 5-fluorouracil and oxaliplatin were markedly enhanced by RA in those CRC cells.CONCLUSION Our results indicate that RA inhibits NF-κB signaling and induces apoptosis in CRC cells.It enhances the cytotoxic actions of chemotherapeutics and might help to improve the chemotherapy of CRC.
基金Supported by Natural Science Foundation of Liaoning Province,No.2024-MS-250.
文摘BACKGROUND Radiation induced pulmonary fibrosis(RIPF)is a long-term lung condition with a bleak outlook and few treatment possibilities.Mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs)-derived exosomes(MSCs-exosomes)possess tissue repair and regenerative pro-perties,but their exact mechanisms in RIPF remain unclear.This study explores whether MSCs-exosomes can alleviate RIPF by modulating inflammation,ex-tracellular matrix(ECM)accumulation,and epithelial-mesenchymal transition(EMT)via the protein kinase B(Akt)/nuclear factor kappa B(NF-κB)pathway.Sprague-Dawley rats were received 30 Gy X-ray radiation on the right chest to induce RIPF,while RLE-6TN and BEAS-2B cell lines were exposed to 10 Gy X-rays.Using differential centrifugation,MSCs-exosomes were isolated,and their protective effects were examined both in vivo and in vitro.Inflammatory cytokine concentrations were measured using Luminex liquid chip detection and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay.ECM and EMT-related proteins were analyzed using immunohistochemistry,western blotting,and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction.Western blotting and immunohistochemistry were also used to investigate the mechanisms underlying MSCs-exosomes’effects in RIPF.RESULTS Administration of MSCs-exosomes significantly mitigated RIPF,reduced collagen deposition,and decreased levels of various inflammatory cytokines.Additionally,MSCs-exosomes prevented radiation-induced ECM accumulation and EMT.Treatment with MSCs-exosomes notably promoted cell proliferation,suppressed inflammation,and reversed ECM deposition and EMT in radiation-exposed alveolar epithelial cells.Mechanistic analysis further revealed that MSCs-exosomes exerted their anti-RIPF effects by inhibiting the Akt/NF-κB pathway,as shown in both in vivo and in vitro models.CONCLUSION MSCs-exosomes mitigate RIPF by suppressing inflammation,ECM deposition,and EMT through Akt/NF-κB inhibition,highlighting their potential as a therapeutic strategy.
基金Supported by the Science and Technology SMEs Innovation Capacity Improvement Project of Shandong Province,No.2022TSGC1004National Key R&D Program of China,No.2021YFA1101502。
文摘BACKGROUND Mesenchymal stromal cells(MSCs)are renowned for their immunosuppressive properties,which make them widely used in managing excessive inflammation.Although CD146+and CD146-MSCs exhibit similar morphological traits and surface marker expression levels,the specific characteristics and differential regulatory mechanisms of these two subtypes remain poorly understood.This knowledge gap has limited the precise application of MSCs in targeted thera-peutic strategies.AIM To compare the functional differences between CD146+and CD146-MSCs and investigate the underlying mechanisms.METHODS In this study,magnetic beads were used to sort umbilical cord-derived MSCs into CD146+and CD146-subsets.The pro-angiogenic factors(hepatocyte growth factor,prostaglandin E2,vascular endothelial growth factor,angiopoietin-1)production and immunomodulatory effects on T lymphocyte subsets were evaluated in vitro.The therapeutic efficacy was assessed in an acute respiratory distress syndrome(ARDS)mouse model via tail vein injection.RESULTS Cytokine secretion and angiogenesis:CD146+MSCs significantly increased the production of hepatocyte growth factor,prostaglandin E2,vascular endothelial growth factor,and angiopoietin-1 and exhibited increased pro-angiogenic activity in vitro.Immunomodulatory effects:CD146+MSCs potently inhibited the differentiation and proliferation of pro-inflammatory T helper type 1/T helper type 17 cells while promoting the expansion of regulatory T cells during T lymphocyte activation.ARDS therapy:In a mouse ARDS model,compared with CD146-MSCs,CD146+MSCs demonstrated superior therapeutic efficacy,as evidenced by improved clinical scores.Mechanistically,CD146+MSCs activated the nuclear factor kappa B pathway,upregulated cyclooxygenase 2 expression,and facilitated damaged epithelial cell repair.CONCLUSION CD146+MSCs show stronger ARDS therapeutic potential than CD146-MSCs via pro-angiogenic/immunomodulatory traits.Nuclear factor kappa B/cyclooxygenase 2 activation aids epithelial repair,highlighting CD146+MSCs as promising targets.
文摘BACKGROUND Erianin is a natural bibenzyl compound extracted from Dendrobium chrysotoxum and is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.AIM To explore the possible therapeutic mechanisms of erianin and determine if it can reduce cardiac damage in mice with type 2 diabetes.METHODS High-fat diet and intraperitoneal injections of streptozotocin were used to induce type 2 diabetes mellitus in C57BL/6 mice.Mice were divided into different groups including control,model,and treatment with various doses of erianin(10,20,and 40 mg/kg)as well as ML-385+erianin group.RESULTS Erianin reduced oxidative stress and inflammation and alleviated diabetic cardiomyopathy through the activation of the adenosine monophosphate-acti-vated protein kinase(AMPK)-nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2(Nrf2)-heme oxygenase-1(HO-1)pathway.Treatments with erianin-M and erianin-H promoted weight stabilization and normalized fasting glucose levels relative to diabetic controls.Echocardiographic assessment demonstrated that erianin dose-dependently enhanced left ventricular systolic function(left ventricular ejection fraction,left ventricular fractional shortening)and mitigated ventricular remodeling(left ventricular internal diameter at end-diastole,left ventricular internal diameter at end-systole;P<0.05 vs model group).No significant differences were observed between the ML-385+erianin and placebo-treated groups.Histopathological examination through hematoxylin-eosin staining indicated that erianin ameliorated myocardial fiber fragmentation,structural disorganization,inflammatory cell infiltration,and cytolytic damage.Furthermore,it significantly reduced the serum levels of cardiac troponin I,creatine kinase,and its MB isoenzyme.However,the ML-385+erianin co-treatment failed to alleviate myocardial injury.Metabolic profiling revealed erianin-mediated improvements in glycemic regulation(glycated hemoglobin:P<0.001),plasma insulin homeostasis,and lipid metabolism(total cholesterol,triglycerides,low-density lipo-protein cholesterol reduction,and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol restoration;P<0.05 vs model group).Pro-inflammatory cytokines including tumor necrosis factor-α,interleukin(IL)-1β,and IL-6 were markedly suppressed in the erianin-M and erianin-H groups compared with the model group,whereas no significant differences were detected between the model and ML-385+erianin groups.Oxidative stress parameters showed decreased malondialdehyde levels accompanied by elevated superoxide dismutase and catalase activities in erianin-treated groups,with the most pronounced effects in the erianin-H group(P<0.05).Western blot analysis confirmed the significant upregulation of proteins associated with the AMPK/Nrf2/HO-1 pathway in erianin-M and erianin-H groups.These protective effects were abolished in the ML-385+erianin co-treatment group,which showed no statistical differences from the model group.CONCLUSION Erianin can effectively alleviate myocardial injury in type 2 diabetic mice by activating the AMPK-Nrf2-HO-1 pathway.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82172095Qingdao Municipal Traditional Chinese Medicine Science and Technology Project,No.2022-zyym03.
文摘BACKGROUND Excessive oxidative stress plays a key role in the development of diabetic complications,including impaired ulcer healing.Previous studies have shown that fish scale ointment can promote wound healing.AIM To preliminarily investigate the effect of fish scale ointment on wound healing in a diabetic foot ulcer(DFU)rat model by examining its regulation of the nuclear factor E2-related factor 2(Nrf2)pathway and induction of ferroptosis.METHODS Fish scale ointment(collagen product)was prepared from 500 g of silver carp scales.A diabetic rat model was induced by high-fat and high-sugar feeding combined with intraperitoneal streptozotocin injections.For the DFU rat model,ulcer wounds were created by removing dorsal foot hair and cutting the skin to the fascia.The diabetic rats were randomized into five groups:Model,fish scale collagen(FSC),control+liproxstatin-1(Lip-1),model+Lip-1,and FSC+Lip-1.In each group,treatments were administered once daily by topical application and intraperitoneal injection for 14 days.Wound healing was evaluated on days 7 and 14 after treatment.Hematoxylin and eosin staining was used to assess wound injury and capillary formation.Basic fibroblast growth factor(bFGF)and CD31 levels in wound tissue were measured by immunohistochemistry.Additionally,malondialdehyde(MDA),glutathione(GSH),ferroptosis-associated genes,and iron ion concentrations were quantified using assay kits.Protein levels of Nrf2,heme oxygenase-1(HO-1),and glutathione peroxidase 4(GPX4)were determined using Western blotting.RESULTS Compared with the control group,the model group showed slower wound healing,reduced angiogenesis,decreased bFGF and CD31 levels,increased iron ion concentration and MDA levels,reduced GSH levels,and decreased Nrf2,HO-1,and GPX4 protein expression(all P<0.05).The FSC,model+Lip-1,and FSC+Lip-1 groups showed increased wound healing and angiogenesis,elevated bFGF and CD31 expression,lowered iron ion concentration and MDA levels,increased GSH levels,and enhanced Nrf2,HO-1,and GPX4 protein levels compared with the model group(P<0.05).Improvements were more pronounced in the FSC+Lip-1 group compared with the FSC group(P<0.05).CONCLUSION Fish scale ointment promotes angiogenesis and wound healing in DFU rat models by inhibiting ferroptosis,possibly through the activation of the Nrf2 pathway.
文摘BACKGROUND Negative pressure wound therapy(NPWT)is a potential treatment for diabetic foot ulcers(DFUs),although the mechanisms underlying its effectiveness remain unclear.This study posits that NPWT may improve wound healing by promoting angiogenesis and activating the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2(Nrf2)/Kelch-like epichlorohydrin-associated protein 1(Keap1)signaling pathway,which is crucial for the body’s defense against oxidative stress.The hypothesis indicates that enhancing antioxidant defenses through NPWT may positively affect the healing process.There are still limited data on the roles of Nrf2,its downstream signaling molecules,and angiogenesis markers in patients undergoing NPWT.AIM To study the mechanism of NPWT in DFUs.METHODS This study included a total of 40 hospitalized patients with DFUs from Xuzhou Central Hospital,who were divided into Control group(n=21)and NPWT group(n=19).The levels of Nrf2 and Keap1 were analyzed in the granulation tissue 7 days after treatment.The wound condition,erythrocyte sedimentation rate(ESR),procalcitonin(PCT),interleukin 6(IL-6),tumor necrosis factor alpha(TNF-α),vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF),basic fibroblast growth factor(b-FGF),cluster of differentiation 31(CD31),and levels of oxidative stress[malondialdehyde(MDA),superoxide dismutase(SOD),catalase(CAT),and total antioxidant capacity(T-AOC)]were analyzed before and 7 days after treatment by the Mann-Whitney U test.RESULTS The NPWT group demonstrated significant improvements in wound healing compared to the control group after 7 days of treatment.The levels of ESR,PCT,IL-6,and TNF-αwere significantly reduced in the NPWT group compared to the control group(P<0.05),while the levels of CD31,VEGF,and b-FGF showed significant increases(P<0.05).The NPWT group exhibited notable elevations in the levels of Nrf2 and its downstream targets(SOD,CAT,and T-AOC),accompanied by decreases in the levels of Keap1 and MDA(P<0.05).CONCLUSION NPWT may contribute to the healing of DFUs by potentially reducing levels of oxidative stress.Its effects could possibly be enhanced through the action of Nrf2.
基金Supported by the National Scientific Foundation:30772878
文摘Objective To investigate the mechanisms of catgut implantation at acupoints on ulcerative colitis. Methods Eighteen SD rats were randomly divided into a normal control group （NC）, a model group （MO） and a catgut implantation group （CI） with 6 rats in each group. Animals in group MO and group CI were treated by trinitro-benzene-sulfonic acid （TNBS） to establish model with colitis. No other treatment was given to the rats in group MO, but catgut was implanted at ＂Shàngjùxū＂ （上 巨虚 ST 37）, ＂Tiānshū＂ （天枢 ST 25） and ＂Dàchángshū＂ （大肠俞 BL 25） in the rats in group CI. The symptoms of diarrhea and bloody stool, and changes in histopathology were detected 15 days after the treatment. Expressions of splenic lymphocyte nuclear factor κB p65（NF-κB p65）and correlated signaling molecules（β2AR）were detected by the western blot method. Results Diarrhea and mucus bloody purulent stool were soon controlled, and mucous injures were obviously improved in group CI. The NF-κB p65 value of splenic lymphocytes was signifi cantly increased （P0.01） and expression of β2AR remarkably reduced in group MO （P0.01）, compared with group NC. But, the NF-κB p65 value was significantly decreased （P0.01） and expression of β2AR remarkably increased in group CI （P 0.01） , compared with group MO. Conclusion Catgut implantation at acupoints is obviously effective in treating experimental colitis. Modulation of NF-κB p65 and the correlated signaling molecules β2AR may be involved in the mechanisms.
文摘Colorectal cancer(CRC)is the third most common malignancy.However,the efficacy of current treatment strategies remains limited.In recent years,monomeric compounds from traditional Chinese medicine have received extensive attention in cancer therapy.Rosmarinic acid(RA),a natural phenolic acid,has multiple biological activities and exhibits anti-oncogenic effects in several cancers.Liu et al previously uncovered that RA could serve as a dual-action therapeutic agent in CRC.By suppressing nuclear factor-kappa B signaling via direct inhibition of inhibitory kappa B kinase beta,RA not only impedes tumor progression but also synergizes with first-line chemotherapeutics(5-fluorouracil/oxaliplatin)to reverse drug resistance.The authors demonstrate RA’s capacity to downregulate nuclear factor-kappa B-driven oncogenes and enhance chemotherapeutic cytotoxicity in vitro through integrative approaches,including molecular docking,luciferase assays,and functional validation.While these findings position RA as a cost-effective adjuvant in precision oncology,critical clinical translational gaps remain,including optimizing RA’s in vivo bioavailability,validating systemic safety in combinatorial regimens,and elucidating its immunomodulatory effects within the tumor microenvironment.This underscores the urgency of bridging phytochemistry and clinical oncology,advocating for biomarker-driven animal studies and phase I trials to translate RA’s potential into actionable CRC therapies.By addressing these hurdles,RA could emerge as a paradigm-shifting agent,harmonizing natural product efficacy with modern therapeutic precision.
基金Supported by the Science and Technology Planning Projects of Guizhou Province,No.QKHJC-MS[2025]384the Science and Technology Planning Projects of Zunyi City,No.ZSKHHZ(2023)470+3 种基金the WBE Liver Fibrosis Foundation,No.CFHPC2025028Chinese Foundation for Hepatitis Prevention and Control Muxin Research Fund of Chronic Hepatitis B,No.MX202404Beijing Liver and Gallbladder Mutual Aid Public Welfare Foundation Artificial Liver Special Fund,No.iGandanF-1082024-RGG018the Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Program of Zunyi Medical University,No.2024106610923.
文摘Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease,characterized by pathological intracellular triglyceride(TG)accumulation,is mechanistically associated with the disrupted spatiotemporal regulation of hepatocyte nuclear factor(HNF)-dependent transcriptional programs.HNFs,including key members such as HNF-1α,HNF-4α,and HNF-6,constitute a liver-enriched family of transcription factors that govern hepatic lipid metabolism through hierarchical transcriptional regulatory networks.These networks critically regulate the dynamic equilibrium of TG metabolism,encompassing TG synthesis,storage,lipolysis,and lipoprotein-mediated export.This review comprehensively deciphers the molecular cascades through which HNF dysfunction exacerbates TG metabolic disorder in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease.Additionally,we evaluate emerging translational strategies targeting key HNF regulatory nodes and discuss current clinical challenges as well as potential solutions.
