Background:Epidemiological studies have confirmed that longer exposure to insecticides like cypermethrin(CYP)significantly increases the risk of male reproductive toxicity.Crocus sativus L.has been recognized due to i...Background:Epidemiological studies have confirmed that longer exposure to insecticides like cypermethrin(CYP)significantly increases the risk of male reproductive toxicity.Crocus sativus L.has been recognized due to its therapeutic properties,but its exact role and molecular mechanisms in treatment of reproductive dysfunction remain unclear.Methods:During this study,36 rats were randomly divided into six groups(n=6):control,CYP-induced(60 mg/kg),standard(leuprolide 3 mg/kg)and three treatment groups receiving aqueous,ethanolic,and oil extracts(50 mg/kg or 20 mL/kg)for post-toxicity induction.Results:The finding represented that exposure of CYP significantly increased oxidative stress,disrupted testicular architecture,and markedly reduced testosterone levels(P<0.05).Importantly,Crocus sativus L.treatment alleviated these changes by increasing the expression of Nrf2(nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2),restoring the activity of antioxidant enzymes,and enhancing testicular histomorphology.Surprisingly,molecular docking established a high binding affinity of Crocus sativus L.phytoconstituents such as gallic acid,cinnamic acid and quercetin to the Nrf2-Keap1 complex.It is worth noting that,Crocus sativus L.exhibited a high level of protection against reproductive toxicity caused by CYP in male rats,which was mediated by the activation of Nrf2 pathway,reduction of oxidative damage,and favorable ADMET characteristics.Conclusion:Notably,this research provides a more valid,safe,and effective method of developing new drugs for reproductive disorders,however,further investigation is needed to support the research findings and implement it in clinical practice.展开更多
Peripheral nerve defect repair is a complex process that involves multiple cell types;perineurial cells play a pivotal role.Hair follicle neural crest stem cells promote perineurial cell proliferation and migration vi...Peripheral nerve defect repair is a complex process that involves multiple cell types;perineurial cells play a pivotal role.Hair follicle neural crest stem cells promote perineurial cell proliferation and migration via paracrine signaling;however,their clinical applications are limited by potential risks such as tumorigenesis and xenogeneic immune rejection,which are similar to the risks associated with other stem cell transplantations.The present study therefore focuses on small extracellular vesicles derived from hair follicle neural crest stem cells,which preserve the bioactive properties of the parent cells while avoiding the transplantation-associated risks.In vitro,small extracellular vesicles derived from hair follicle neural crest stem cells significantly enhanced the proliferation,migration,tube formation,and barrier function of perineurial cells,and subsequently upregulated the expression of tight junction proteins.Furthermore,in a rat model of sciatic nerve defects bridged with silicon tubes,treatment with small extracellular vesicles derived from hair follicle neural crest stem cells resulted in higher tight junction protein expression in perineurial cells,thus facilitating neural tissue regeneration.At 10 weeks post-surgery,rats treated with small extracellular vesicles derived from hair follicle neural crest stem cells exhibited improved nerve function recovery and reduced muscle atrophy.Transcriptomic and micro RNA analyses revealed that small extracellular vesicles derived from hair follicle neural crest stem cells deliver mi R-21-5p,which inhibits mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 7 expression,thereby activating the transforming growth factor-β/mothers against decapentaplegic homolog signaling pathway and upregulating hyaluronan synthase 2 expression,and further enhancing tight junction protein expression.Together,our findings indicate that small extracellular vesicles derived from hair follicle neural crest stem cells promote the proliferation,migration,and tight junction protein formation of perineurial cells.These results provide new insights into peripheral nerve regeneration from the perspective of perineurial cells,and present a novel approach for the clinical treatment of peripheral nerve defects.展开更多
Ulcerative colitis(UC)is an idiopathic,relapsing,and etiologically complicated chronic inflammatory bowel disease.Despite substantial progress in the management of UC,the outcomes of mucosal barrier repair are unsatis...Ulcerative colitis(UC)is an idiopathic,relapsing,and etiologically complicated chronic inflammatory bowel disease.Despite substantial progress in the management of UC,the outcomes of mucosal barrier repair are unsatisfactory.In this study,phillygenin(PHI)treatment alleviated the symptoms of chronic colitis in mice,including body weight loss,severe disease activity index scores,colon shortening,splenomegaly,oxidative stress,and inflammatory response.In particular,PHI treatment ameliorated the tight junction proteins(TJs)reduction,fibrosis,apoptosis,and intestinal stem cell activity,indicating that PHI exerted beneficial effects on the intestinal mucosal barrier in mice with chronic colitis.In the NCM460 cells damage model,dextran sulfate sodium triggered the sequential induction of TJs reduction,fibrosis,and apoptosis.Takeda G protein-coupled receptor-5(TGR5)dysfunction mediated NCM460 cell injury.Moreover,PHI treatment enhanced TJs and suppressed fibrosis and apoptosis to maintain NCM460 cell function,depending on TGR5 activation.PHI promoted TGR5 activation and elevated intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate levels in HEK 293T cells transfected with TGR5 expression plasmids.Cellular thermal shift assay and molecular docking studies confirmed that PHI directly binds to TGR5,indicating that PHI is an agonist of TGR5.The process of PERK-eIF2α pathway-mediated endoplasmic reticulum Ca^(2+) release was involved in NCM460 cell injury as well,which was associated with TGR5 dysfunction.When NCM460 cells were pretreated with PHI,the PERK-eIF2α pathway and elevated Ca^(2+) levels were blocked.In conclusion,our study demonstrated a novel mechanism that PHI inhibited the PERK-eIF2α-Ca^(2+) pathway through TGR5 activation to against DSS-induced TJs reduction,fibrosis,and apoptosis.展开更多
Spinal cord injury involves non-reversible damage to the central nervous system that is characterized by limited regenerative capacity and secondary inflammatory damage.The expression of the C-C motif chemokine ligand...Spinal cord injury involves non-reversible damage to the central nervous system that is characterized by limited regenerative capacity and secondary inflammatory damage.The expression of the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis exhibits significant differences before and after injury.Recent studies have revealed that the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis is closely associated with secondary inflammatory responses and the recruitment of immune cells following spinal cord injury,suggesting that this axis is a novel target and regulatory control point for treatment.This review comprehensively examines the therapeutic strategies targeting the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis,along with the regenerative and repair mechanisms linking the axis to spinal cord injury.Additionally,we summarize the upstream and downstream inflammatory signaling pathways associated with spinal cord injury and the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis.This review primarily elaborates on therapeutic strategies that target the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis and the latest progress of research on antagonistic drugs,along with the approaches used to exploit new therapeutic targets within the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis and the development of targeted drugs.Nevertheless,there are presently no clinical studies relating to spinal cord injury that are focusing on the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis.This review aims to provide new ideas and therapeutic strategies for the future treatment of spinal cord injury.展开更多
5-Hydroxymethylfurfural （5-HMF）, a water-soluble compound extracted from wine-processed Fructus corni, is a novel hepatic protectant for treating acute liver injury. The present study was designed to investigate the...5-Hydroxymethylfurfural （5-HMF）, a water-soluble compound extracted from wine-processed Fructus corni, is a novel hepatic protectant for treating acute liver injury. The present study was designed to investigate the protective effect of 5-HMF in human L02 hepatocytes injured by D-galactosamine （GAIN） and tumor necrosis factor-α （TNF-α） in vitro and to explore the underlying mechanisms of action. Our results showed that 5-HMF caused significant increase in the viability of L02 cells injured by GalN/TNF-α, in accordance with a dose-dependent decrease in apoptotic cell death confirmed by morphological and flow cytometric analyses. Based on immunofluorescence and Western blot assays, we found that GalN/TNF-α induced ER stress in the cells, as indicated by the disturbance of intracellular Ca^2＋ concentration, the activation of protein kinase RNA （PKR）-like ER kinase （PERK）, phosphorylation of eukaryotic initiation factor 2 alpha （eIF2α）, and expression of ATF4 and CHOP proteins, which was reversed by 5-HMF pre-treatment in a dose-dependent manner. The anti-apoptotic effect of 5-HMF was further evidenced by balancing the expression of Bcl-2 family members. In addition, the knockdown of PERK suppressed the expression of phospho-PERK, phospho-eIF2α, ATF4, and CHOP, resulting in a significant decrease in cell apoptosis after the treatment with GalN/TNF-α. 5-HMF could enhance the effects of PERK knockdown, protecting the cells against the GalN/TNF-α insult. In conclusion, these findings demonstrate that 5-HMF can effectively protect GalN/TNF-α-injured L02 hepatocytes against ER stress-induced apoptosis through the regulation of the PERK- eIF2α signaling pathway, suggesting that it is a possible candidate for liver disease therapy.展开更多
AIM: To investigate the effect of high concentration of glucose(HCG) on double stranded RNA-activated protein kinase-like ER kinase(PERK)-eukaryotic initiation factor-2α(eIF2α)-transcription factor C/EBP homologous ...AIM: To investigate the effect of high concentration of glucose(HCG) on double stranded RNA-activated protein kinase-like ER kinase(PERK)-eukaryotic initiation factor-2α(eIF2α)-transcription factor C/EBP homologous protein(CHOP)-cysteine aspartate specific proteinase(caspase-12) signaling pathway activation and apoptosis in rabbit corneal epithelial cells(RCECs). METHODS: RCECs were treated by different concentrations of glucose for 0-48 h. The expressions of PERK, p-PERK, eIF2α, p-eIF2α, 78 k Da glucose-regulated protein 78(GRP78), CHOP, B-cell lymphoma 2(Bcl-2), B-cell lymphoma-2-associated X protein(Bax) and caspase-12 were determined by Western blot. Apoptosis was detected by TUNEL assay. Meanwhile, the function of PERK-eI F2α-CHOP-caspase-12 signaling pathway activation in high glucose-induced apoptosis was evaluated using PERK inhibitor, GSK2606414. RESULTS: HCG significantly promoted the expression of p-PERK, p-eIF2α, GRP78, CHOP, Bax and cleaved caspase-12 in RCECs(P<0.05), while remarkably decreased the expression of Bcl-2 and caspase-12(P<0.05), and the alterations caused by glucose were in concentration-and time-dependent manners. Meanwhile, PERK and eIF2α expressions were not affected in all groups(P>0.05). TUNEL assay showed that the apoptosis rate of RCECs in the HCG group increased significantly in contrast with that in the normal concentration of glucose or osmotic pressure control group(P<0.05), and the apoptosis rate increased with the increase of glucose concentration within limits(P<0.05). GSK2606414 down-regulated the expression of p-PERK and p-eI F2α in the HCG group(P<0.05), while still did not affect the expression of PERK and eIF2α among groups(P>0.05). Correspondingly, GSK2606414 also significantly reduced the apoptosis rate induced by high glucose(P<0.05). CONCLUSION: HCG activates PERK-eIF2α-CHOPcaspase-12 signaling pathway and promotes apoptosis of RCECs.展开更多
Background:Rotavirus(RV)is a major pathogen that causes severe gastroenteritis in infants and young animals.Endoplasmic reticulum(ER)stress and subsequent apoptosis play pivotal role in virus infection.However,the pro...Background:Rotavirus(RV)is a major pathogen that causes severe gastroenteritis in infants and young animals.Endoplasmic reticulum(ER)stress and subsequent apoptosis play pivotal role in virus infection.However,the protective mechanisms of intestinal damage caused by RV are poorly defined,especially the molecular pathways related to enterocytes apoptosis.Thus,the aim of this study was to investigate the protective effect and mechanism of sodium butyrate(SB)on RV-induced apoptosis of IPEC-J2 cells.Results:The RV infection led to significant cell apoptosis,increased the expression levels of ER stress(ERS)markers,phosphorylated protein kinase-like ER kinase(PERK),eukaryotic initiation factor 2 alpha(eIF2α),caspase9,and caspase3.Blocking PERK pathway using specific inhibitor GSK subsequently reversed RV-induced cell apoptosis.The SB treatment significantly inhibited RV-induced ERS by decreasing the expression of glucose regulated protein 78(GRP78),PERK,and eIF2α.In addition,SB treatment restrained the ERS-mediated apoptotic pathway,as indicated by downregulation of C/EBP homologous protein(CHOP)mRNA level,as well as decreased cleaved caspase9 and caspase3 protein levels.Furthermore,siRNA-induced GPR109a knockdown significantly suppressed the protective effect of SB on RV-induced cell apoptosis.Conclusions:These results indicate that SB exerts protective effects against RV-induced cell apoptosis through inhibiting ERS mediated apoptosis by regulating PERK-eIF2αsignaling pathway via GPR109a,which provide new ideas for the prevention and control of RV.展开更多
Objective:The occurrence and development of atrial fibrillation(AF)are influenced by the autonomic nervous system and inflammation.Acupuncture is an effective treatment for AF.This study explored the protective effect...Objective:The occurrence and development of atrial fibrillation(AF)are influenced by the autonomic nervous system and inflammation.Acupuncture is an effective treatment for AF.This study explored the protective effects of acupuncture in a rat model of paroxysmal AF and investigated its mechanisms.Methods:Male Sprague-Dawley rats(n=130)were randomly divided into blank control(Con),sham operation(Sham),AF,and acupuncture treatment(Acu)groups.A paroxysmal AF model was established by rapid atrial pacing through the jugular vein.Rats in the Acu group were immobilized to receive acupuncture treatment at Neiguan acupoint(PC6)for 20 min daily for seven days.The other groups were immobilized for the same duration over the treatment period but did not receive acupuncture.The AF induction rate,AF duration,cardiac electrophysiological parameters,and heart rate variability were evaluated by monitoring surface electrocardiogram and vagus nerve discharge signals.After the intervention,the rats were euthanized,and atrial morphology was assessed using haematoxylin and eosin staining.The expression of macrophage F4/80 antigen(F4/80)and cluster of differentiation(CD)86 in atrial myocardial tissue was detected using immunohistochemistry,immunofluorescence and flow cytometry.The expression levels or contents of interleukin(IL)-1β,IL-6,tumor necrosis factor-a(TNF-a),a7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor(a7nAChR),phosphorylated Janus kinase 2(p-JAK2),and phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3(p-STAT3)in atrial myocardial tissue were detected using Western blotting,reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction,or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.The role of a7nAChR in acupuncture treatment was verified by intraperitoneal injection of the a7nAChR antagonist methyllycaconitine(MLA).Results:Compared with the AF group,acupuncture significantly reduced AF duration and induction rate,improved cardiac electrophysiology by enhancing vagus nerve activity and regulating autonomic balance.It also decreased the pro-inflammatory M1 macrophage proportion,alleviating myocardial injury and infiltration.MLA weakened acupuncture's electrophysiological improvement and anti-inflammatory effect.Results suggest that acupuncture triggers the a7nAChR-JAK2/STAT3 pathway and exerts cardioprotection via neuroimmune regulation.Conclusion:Acupuncture significantly reduced the AF induction rate,shortened AF duration,improved cardiac electrophysiological parameters,enhanced vagus nerve activity,and decreased the expression of pro-inflammatory M1 macrophages and inflammatory factors in rats with paroxysmal AF.展开更多
The electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide(CO_(2))into value-added chemicals and fuels has been extensively studied as a promising strategy for mitigating environmental issues and achieving sustainable energy con...The electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide(CO_(2))into value-added chemicals and fuels has been extensively studied as a promising strategy for mitigating environmental issues and achieving sustainable energy conversion.Substantial efforts have been made to improve the understanding of CO_(2)reduction reaction(CO_(2)RR)mechanisms by computational and spectroscopic studies.An in-depth understanding of CO_(2)RR mechanism can provide the guidance and criteria for designing high-efficiency catalysts,and hence,steering CO_(2)RR to desired products.This review systematically discusses the formation mechanisms and reaction pathways of various CO_(2)RR products,including C_(1)products(CO,HCOOH,and CH_(4)),C_(2)products(C_(2)H_(4),C_(2)H_(5)OH,and CH_(3)COOH),and C_(3+)products(C_(3)H_(6),C_(3)H_(7)OH,and others).The reaction pathways are elucidated by analyzing the adsorption behavior,energy barriers,and intermediate coupling steps involved in the generation of each product.Particular emphasis is placed on the key intermediates,such as^(*)OCHO,^(*)COOH,^(*)CO,^(*)OCCOH,and^(*)CCO,which play crucial roles in determining the product selectivity.The effects of catalyst composition,morphology,and electronic structure on the adsorption and activation of these intermediates are also discussed.Moreover,advanced characterization techniques,including in-situ spectroscopy and isotopic labeling experiments,are highlighted for their contributions to unraveling the reaction mechanisms.The review aims to provide critical insights to reveal the activity-determining para meters and underlying CO_(2)RR mechanisms,which will guide the rational design of next-generation electrocatalysts for selective CO^(2)RR towards high-value products.展开更多
The activation of the sirtuin1(SIRT1)/nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2(Nrf2)/heme oxygenase 1(HO-1)pathway has been shown to mitigate oxidative stress-induced apoptosis and mitochondrial damage by reducing ...The activation of the sirtuin1(SIRT1)/nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2(Nrf2)/heme oxygenase 1(HO-1)pathway has been shown to mitigate oxidative stress-induced apoptosis and mitochondrial damage by reducing reactive oxygen species(ROS)levels.Clinical trials have demonstrated that Zhongfeng Xingnao Liquid(ZFXN)ameliorates post-stroke cognitive impairment(PSCI).However,the underlying mechanism,particularly whether it involves protecting mitochondria and inhibiting apoptosis through the SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 pathway,remains unclear.This study employed an oxygen-glucose deprivation(OGD)cell model using SHSY5Y cells and induced PSCI in rats through modified bilateral carotid artery ligation(2VO).The effects of ZFXN on learning and memory,neuroprotective activity,mitochondrial function,oxidative stress,and the SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 pathway were evaluated both in vivo and in vitro.Results indicated that ZFXN significantly increased the B-cell lymphoma 2(Bcl2)/Bcl2-associated X(Bax)ratio,reduced terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated d UTP nickend-labeling(TUNEL)+cells,and markedly improved cognition,synaptic plasticity,and neuronal function in the hippocampus and cortex.Furthermore,ZFXN exhibited potent antioxidant activity,evidenced by decreased ROS and malondialdehyde(MDA)content and increased superoxide dismutase(SOD),catalase(CAT),and glutathione(GSH)levels.ZFXN also demonstrated considerable enhancement of mitochondrial membrane potential(MMP),Tom 20 fluorescence intensity,adenosine triphosphate(ATP)and energy charge(EC)levels,and mitochondrial complexⅠandⅢactivity,thereby inhibiting mitochondrial damage.Additionally,ZFXN significantly increased SIRT1 activity and elevated SIRT1,nuclear Nrf2,and HO-1 levels.Notably,these effects were substantially counteracted when SIRT1 was suppressed by the inhibitor EX-527 in vitro.In conclusion,ZFXN alleviates PSCI by activating the SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 pathway and preventing mitochondrial damage.展开更多
OBJECTIVE To explore hypoglycemic effect of 95%ethanol fraction of Nitraria roborowskii Kom(NRK-C)and its possible mechanism evaluated in the type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)mice.METHODS The body weight,organ indices,bl...OBJECTIVE To explore hypoglycemic effect of 95%ethanol fraction of Nitraria roborowskii Kom(NRK-C)and its possible mechanism evaluated in the type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)mice.METHODS The body weight,organ indices,blood glucose levels,serum biochemical indexes,as well as HE/PAS histopathological section were all analyzed to assess the hypoglycemic effect of NRK-C in T2DM mice induced by a high-fat diet(HFD)combined with six intraperitoneal injections of 35 mg·kg^(-1)of streptozotocin(STZ).The Western blotting and immunofluorescence were further applied to determine the regulatory effect of NRK-C on key signaling proteins.RESULTS The fasting blood glucose levels were significantly reduced after 7 weeks of administration of NRK-C.In addition,NRK-C could also significantly improve glucose tolerance,hepatic glycogen levels,and lipid levels(total cholesterol,triglyceride,low density lipoprotein and high density lipoprotein),and significantly reduced insulin resistance of diabetic mice,which played an important role in the antidiabetic effects.Further mechanism research demonstrated that phosphorylated PI3K expression was up-regulated and p-GSK3βexpression was up-regulated after NRK-C intervention,indicating that NRK-C might exert a potential antidiabetic effect by modulating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.CONCLUSION All these results suggested that NRK-C might improve T2DM and had the potential to be used as an adjunctive therapy.展开更多
Background:Although the buried wood of Phoebe zhennan is known as the“mummy”of the plant kingdom,there is little research on its pharmacological activity.This study endeavored to investigate the effect and mechanism...Background:Although the buried wood of Phoebe zhennan is known as the“mummy”of the plant kingdom,there is little research on its pharmacological activity.This study endeavored to investigate the effect and mechanism of buried wood of Phoebe zhennan extract(BPE)on physical fatigue mice induced by weight-loaded forced swimming.Methods:Firstly,BPE was obtained by 70%ethanol extraction and freeze-drying processes.Then,the effect of BPE on physical fatigue mice was evaluated by swimming time,rotating stick time,levels of lipid peroxidation,lactate,lactate dehydrogenase,urea nitrogen,creatine kinase and muscle glycogen.Finally,real time fluorescence quantification and western blot were used to investigate the possible mechanism of BPE.Results:BPE could significantly alleviate muscle tissue damage,prolong the exhaustion time of weight-bearing swimming and rotating stick time.Meanwhile,BPE treatment could notably reduce the accumulation of serum lactate,urea nitrogen,and activities of lactate dehydrogenase and creatine kinase,while increasing the levels of glycogen and activities of glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase in muscles.Moreover,BPE treatment obviously increased HO-1,Nrf-2,AMPK,PGC-1αmRNA and protein expressions in the muscles of physical fatigue mice.Conclusion:BPE treatment could ameliorate various impairments and oxidative stress injury induced by physical fatigue via activating Nrf-2/HO-1 and AMPK/PGC-1αsignaling pathway.展开更多
Background Deoxynivalenol(DON)is a mycotoxin that severely pollutes feed ingredients,and methods for reducing DON toxicity have become a significant research direction.Chlorogenic acid(CGA)is an active polyphenol foun...Background Deoxynivalenol(DON)is a mycotoxin that severely pollutes feed ingredients,and methods for reducing DON toxicity have become a significant research direction.Chlorogenic acid(CGA)is an active polyphenol found in some plants,which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and a protective effect on animal intestinal health.The effects of CGA on DON-induced pyroptosis in the intestinal porcine epithelial cell line-J2(IPEC-J2)and its potential mechanism were explored in this study.Results IPEC-J2 cells viability and membrane integrity were inversely correlated with DON concentration.Compared to those in the group treated with DON alone at 2,500 ng/mL,pretreatment with 80μmol/L CGA for 4 h significantly improved cell viability(P<0.01),and the alleviation of typical pyroptotic symptoms induced by DON were observed,including reduced cellular DNA fragmentation,decreased release of lactate dehydrogenase(LDH),normalized ROS levels,restoration of extracellularCa2+andK+contents to normal levels(P<0.01),as well as suppressed the enzyme activities of caspase-1 and caspase-4(P<0.01).Additionally,the mRNA expression levels of TNF,MDP,NOD2,TLR4,ASC and GSDMD were significantly improved(P<0.01),while both mRNA and protein expression levels of NF-κB,NLRP3,caspase-1,IL-1βand IL-18 were significantly upregulated(P<0.01)in the CGA+DON group,compare to those in the DON group.Conclusion Pretreatment with 80μmol/L CGA for 4 h effectively alleviated pyroptosis in IPEC-J2 cells induced by 2,500 ng/mL of DON through inhibiting activation of the NF-κB/NLRP3/capase-1 pathway.展开更多
The objective of electrochemical CO_(2) reduction technologies(ECRs)is notably audacious:to revolutionize the market by generating fuel and essential chemicals at a more competitive price than petrochemicals can offer...The objective of electrochemical CO_(2) reduction technologies(ECRs)is notably audacious:to revolutionize the market by generating fuel and essential chemicals at a more competitive price than petrochemicals can offer,all while prioritizing environmental sustainability.To expedite the commercialization of ECR technology,we discuss here how ECR can reshape the industry landscape through 2e−pathways.展开更多
Aging is an inevitable biological phenomenon that involves a multitude of physiological alterations.Dietary interventions are being considered as potential strategies for delaying age-related dysfunction.Unsaponifiabl...Aging is an inevitable biological phenomenon that involves a multitude of physiological alterations.Dietary interventions are being considered as potential strategies for delaying age-related dysfunction.Unsaponifiable matter(USM),a composition of highly active ingredients found in walnut oil,has demonstrated antioxidant effects.This study aims to explore the neuroprotective effects of USM on d-galactose-treated C57BL/6 mice and elucidate its underlying mechanism,which was validated in PC12 cells treated with d-galactose.The results of behavioral tests demonstrated that USM significantly improved cognitive deficits associated with aging.The morphological analysis demonstrated that USM effectively alleviated hippocampal neuronal damage,synaptic impairment,and mitochondrial dysfunction induced by d-galactose.Furthermore,USM significantly increases the antioxidant enzymes activity while reducing the malondialdehyde and reactive oxygen species levels.The results suggest that USM can mitigate age-related symptoms caused by d-galactose by activating the nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 signaling pathway,which enhances the expression of antioxidant enzymes,restore redox balance,and improves synaptic and mitochondrial functions.This has a positive on improving cognition and memory disorders in elderly mice.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
The need to secure environmentally sustainable sources of clean fuel has led to intensive research into the catalytic conversion of CO_(2)into valuable C_(2)+compounds.However,the intrinsically sluggish reduction kine...The need to secure environmentally sustainable sources of clean fuel has led to intensive research into the catalytic conversion of CO_(2)into valuable C_(2)+compounds.However,the intrinsically sluggish reduction kinetics and competing reaction pathways present challenges in achieving high product selectivity and efficiency.Herein,we focus on the transformation of CO_(2)into C_(2)+products,particularly emphasizing advances in non-copper-based catalytic systems,which have emerged as promising alternatives that present unique electronic structures and adsorption properties.Unlike conventional copper catalysts,these systems offer distinct advantages in selectivity and stability,particularly through the modulation of surface defect engineering.We systematically analyze the main reaction pathways leading to C_(2)+products,including ethylene formation and higher hydrocarbon(C_(2)-4)alcohols and oxygenates,while critically assessing the mechanistic insights that differentiate non-copper catalysts from their Cu-based counterparts.By summarizing recent developments,the key challenges,and optimization strategies,we provide a comprehensive overview of how non-copper catalysts can enable efficient and scalable CO_(2)reduction reactions,with an aim of assisting researchers in their design of novel catalysts that may reach industrial applications.展开更多
文摘Background:Epidemiological studies have confirmed that longer exposure to insecticides like cypermethrin(CYP)significantly increases the risk of male reproductive toxicity.Crocus sativus L.has been recognized due to its therapeutic properties,but its exact role and molecular mechanisms in treatment of reproductive dysfunction remain unclear.Methods:During this study,36 rats were randomly divided into six groups(n=6):control,CYP-induced(60 mg/kg),standard(leuprolide 3 mg/kg)and three treatment groups receiving aqueous,ethanolic,and oil extracts(50 mg/kg or 20 mL/kg)for post-toxicity induction.Results:The finding represented that exposure of CYP significantly increased oxidative stress,disrupted testicular architecture,and markedly reduced testosterone levels(P<0.05).Importantly,Crocus sativus L.treatment alleviated these changes by increasing the expression of Nrf2(nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2),restoring the activity of antioxidant enzymes,and enhancing testicular histomorphology.Surprisingly,molecular docking established a high binding affinity of Crocus sativus L.phytoconstituents such as gallic acid,cinnamic acid and quercetin to the Nrf2-Keap1 complex.It is worth noting that,Crocus sativus L.exhibited a high level of protection against reproductive toxicity caused by CYP in male rats,which was mediated by the activation of Nrf2 pathway,reduction of oxidative damage,and favorable ADMET characteristics.Conclusion:Notably,this research provides a more valid,safe,and effective method of developing new drugs for reproductive disorders,however,further investigation is needed to support the research findings and implement it in clinical practice.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81571211(to FL)the Natural Science Foundation of Shanghai,No.22ZR1476800(to CH)。
文摘Peripheral nerve defect repair is a complex process that involves multiple cell types;perineurial cells play a pivotal role.Hair follicle neural crest stem cells promote perineurial cell proliferation and migration via paracrine signaling;however,their clinical applications are limited by potential risks such as tumorigenesis and xenogeneic immune rejection,which are similar to the risks associated with other stem cell transplantations.The present study therefore focuses on small extracellular vesicles derived from hair follicle neural crest stem cells,which preserve the bioactive properties of the parent cells while avoiding the transplantation-associated risks.In vitro,small extracellular vesicles derived from hair follicle neural crest stem cells significantly enhanced the proliferation,migration,tube formation,and barrier function of perineurial cells,and subsequently upregulated the expression of tight junction proteins.Furthermore,in a rat model of sciatic nerve defects bridged with silicon tubes,treatment with small extracellular vesicles derived from hair follicle neural crest stem cells resulted in higher tight junction protein expression in perineurial cells,thus facilitating neural tissue regeneration.At 10 weeks post-surgery,rats treated with small extracellular vesicles derived from hair follicle neural crest stem cells exhibited improved nerve function recovery and reduced muscle atrophy.Transcriptomic and micro RNA analyses revealed that small extracellular vesicles derived from hair follicle neural crest stem cells deliver mi R-21-5p,which inhibits mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 7 expression,thereby activating the transforming growth factor-β/mothers against decapentaplegic homolog signaling pathway and upregulating hyaluronan synthase 2 expression,and further enhancing tight junction protein expression.Together,our findings indicate that small extracellular vesicles derived from hair follicle neural crest stem cells promote the proliferation,migration,and tight junction protein formation of perineurial cells.These results provide new insights into peripheral nerve regeneration from the perspective of perineurial cells,and present a novel approach for the clinical treatment of peripheral nerve defects.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Fund of China(Grant Nos.:31800293 and 32370422)Project of Standard for TCM(Grant No.:ZYBZH-Y-JIN-34).
文摘Ulcerative colitis(UC)is an idiopathic,relapsing,and etiologically complicated chronic inflammatory bowel disease.Despite substantial progress in the management of UC,the outcomes of mucosal barrier repair are unsatisfactory.In this study,phillygenin(PHI)treatment alleviated the symptoms of chronic colitis in mice,including body weight loss,severe disease activity index scores,colon shortening,splenomegaly,oxidative stress,and inflammatory response.In particular,PHI treatment ameliorated the tight junction proteins(TJs)reduction,fibrosis,apoptosis,and intestinal stem cell activity,indicating that PHI exerted beneficial effects on the intestinal mucosal barrier in mice with chronic colitis.In the NCM460 cells damage model,dextran sulfate sodium triggered the sequential induction of TJs reduction,fibrosis,and apoptosis.Takeda G protein-coupled receptor-5(TGR5)dysfunction mediated NCM460 cell injury.Moreover,PHI treatment enhanced TJs and suppressed fibrosis and apoptosis to maintain NCM460 cell function,depending on TGR5 activation.PHI promoted TGR5 activation and elevated intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate levels in HEK 293T cells transfected with TGR5 expression plasmids.Cellular thermal shift assay and molecular docking studies confirmed that PHI directly binds to TGR5,indicating that PHI is an agonist of TGR5.The process of PERK-eIF2α pathway-mediated endoplasmic reticulum Ca^(2+) release was involved in NCM460 cell injury as well,which was associated with TGR5 dysfunction.When NCM460 cells were pretreated with PHI,the PERK-eIF2α pathway and elevated Ca^(2+) levels were blocked.In conclusion,our study demonstrated a novel mechanism that PHI inhibited the PERK-eIF2α-Ca^(2+) pathway through TGR5 activation to against DSS-induced TJs reduction,fibrosis,and apoptosis.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Key Program),No.11932013the National Natural Science Foundation of China(General Program),No.82272255+2 种基金Armed Police Force High-Level Science and Technology Personnel ProjectThe Armed Police Force Focuses on Supporting Scientific and Technological Innovation TeamsKey Project of Tianjin Science and Technology Plan,No.20JCZDJC00570(all to XC)。
文摘Spinal cord injury involves non-reversible damage to the central nervous system that is characterized by limited regenerative capacity and secondary inflammatory damage.The expression of the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis exhibits significant differences before and after injury.Recent studies have revealed that the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis is closely associated with secondary inflammatory responses and the recruitment of immune cells following spinal cord injury,suggesting that this axis is a novel target and regulatory control point for treatment.This review comprehensively examines the therapeutic strategies targeting the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis,along with the regenerative and repair mechanisms linking the axis to spinal cord injury.Additionally,we summarize the upstream and downstream inflammatory signaling pathways associated with spinal cord injury and the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis.This review primarily elaborates on therapeutic strategies that target the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis and the latest progress of research on antagonistic drugs,along with the approaches used to exploit new therapeutic targets within the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis and the development of targeted drugs.Nevertheless,there are presently no clinical studies relating to spinal cord injury that are focusing on the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis.This review aims to provide new ideas and therapeutic strategies for the future treatment of spinal cord injury.
基金supported by grants from Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions of China(No.13KJB360010)Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM) Prevention and Treatment of Tumor(No.012092002002)+1 种基金China and Europe Taking Care of Healthcare Solutions,CHETCH(No.PIRSES-GA-2013-612589)Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions(PAPD)
文摘5-Hydroxymethylfurfural （5-HMF）, a water-soluble compound extracted from wine-processed Fructus corni, is a novel hepatic protectant for treating acute liver injury. The present study was designed to investigate the protective effect of 5-HMF in human L02 hepatocytes injured by D-galactosamine （GAIN） and tumor necrosis factor-α （TNF-α） in vitro and to explore the underlying mechanisms of action. Our results showed that 5-HMF caused significant increase in the viability of L02 cells injured by GalN/TNF-α, in accordance with a dose-dependent decrease in apoptotic cell death confirmed by morphological and flow cytometric analyses. Based on immunofluorescence and Western blot assays, we found that GalN/TNF-α induced ER stress in the cells, as indicated by the disturbance of intracellular Ca^2＋ concentration, the activation of protein kinase RNA （PKR）-like ER kinase （PERK）, phosphorylation of eukaryotic initiation factor 2 alpha （eIF2α）, and expression of ATF4 and CHOP proteins, which was reversed by 5-HMF pre-treatment in a dose-dependent manner. The anti-apoptotic effect of 5-HMF was further evidenced by balancing the expression of Bcl-2 family members. In addition, the knockdown of PERK suppressed the expression of phospho-PERK, phospho-eIF2α, ATF4, and CHOP, resulting in a significant decrease in cell apoptosis after the treatment with GalN/TNF-α. 5-HMF could enhance the effects of PERK knockdown, protecting the cells against the GalN/TNF-α insult. In conclusion, these findings demonstrate that 5-HMF can effectively protect GalN/TNF-α-injured L02 hepatocytes against ER stress-induced apoptosis through the regulation of the PERK- eIF2α signaling pathway, suggesting that it is a possible candidate for liver disease therapy.
基金Supported by Shanghai Natural Science Foundation (No.19ZR1450500)National Foundation Cultivation Project of Tongji University (No.22120180285)the Good Physician Training Project of Yangpu District, Shanghai
文摘AIM: To investigate the effect of high concentration of glucose(HCG) on double stranded RNA-activated protein kinase-like ER kinase(PERK)-eukaryotic initiation factor-2α(eIF2α)-transcription factor C/EBP homologous protein(CHOP)-cysteine aspartate specific proteinase(caspase-12) signaling pathway activation and apoptosis in rabbit corneal epithelial cells(RCECs). METHODS: RCECs were treated by different concentrations of glucose for 0-48 h. The expressions of PERK, p-PERK, eIF2α, p-eIF2α, 78 k Da glucose-regulated protein 78(GRP78), CHOP, B-cell lymphoma 2(Bcl-2), B-cell lymphoma-2-associated X protein(Bax) and caspase-12 were determined by Western blot. Apoptosis was detected by TUNEL assay. Meanwhile, the function of PERK-eI F2α-CHOP-caspase-12 signaling pathway activation in high glucose-induced apoptosis was evaluated using PERK inhibitor, GSK2606414. RESULTS: HCG significantly promoted the expression of p-PERK, p-eIF2α, GRP78, CHOP, Bax and cleaved caspase-12 in RCECs(P<0.05), while remarkably decreased the expression of Bcl-2 and caspase-12(P<0.05), and the alterations caused by glucose were in concentration-and time-dependent manners. Meanwhile, PERK and eIF2α expressions were not affected in all groups(P>0.05). TUNEL assay showed that the apoptosis rate of RCECs in the HCG group increased significantly in contrast with that in the normal concentration of glucose or osmotic pressure control group(P<0.05), and the apoptosis rate increased with the increase of glucose concentration within limits(P<0.05). GSK2606414 down-regulated the expression of p-PERK and p-eI F2α in the HCG group(P<0.05), while still did not affect the expression of PERK and eIF2α among groups(P>0.05). Correspondingly, GSK2606414 also significantly reduced the apoptosis rate induced by high glucose(P<0.05). CONCLUSION: HCG activates PERK-eIF2α-CHOPcaspase-12 signaling pathway and promotes apoptosis of RCECs.
基金supported by Key Program for the National Key Research&Development Program of China(2018YFD0501004)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31730091)the Sichuan Science and Technology Support Program(2020YFN0147).
文摘Background:Rotavirus(RV)is a major pathogen that causes severe gastroenteritis in infants and young animals.Endoplasmic reticulum(ER)stress and subsequent apoptosis play pivotal role in virus infection.However,the protective mechanisms of intestinal damage caused by RV are poorly defined,especially the molecular pathways related to enterocytes apoptosis.Thus,the aim of this study was to investigate the protective effect and mechanism of sodium butyrate(SB)on RV-induced apoptosis of IPEC-J2 cells.Results:The RV infection led to significant cell apoptosis,increased the expression levels of ER stress(ERS)markers,phosphorylated protein kinase-like ER kinase(PERK),eukaryotic initiation factor 2 alpha(eIF2α),caspase9,and caspase3.Blocking PERK pathway using specific inhibitor GSK subsequently reversed RV-induced cell apoptosis.The SB treatment significantly inhibited RV-induced ERS by decreasing the expression of glucose regulated protein 78(GRP78),PERK,and eIF2α.In addition,SB treatment restrained the ERS-mediated apoptotic pathway,as indicated by downregulation of C/EBP homologous protein(CHOP)mRNA level,as well as decreased cleaved caspase9 and caspase3 protein levels.Furthermore,siRNA-induced GPR109a knockdown significantly suppressed the protective effect of SB on RV-induced cell apoptosis.Conclusions:These results indicate that SB exerts protective effects against RV-induced cell apoptosis through inhibiting ERS mediated apoptosis by regulating PERK-eIF2αsignaling pathway via GPR109a,which provide new ideas for the prevention and control of RV.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(No.2019YFC1712100)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82105017)。
文摘Objective:The occurrence and development of atrial fibrillation(AF)are influenced by the autonomic nervous system and inflammation.Acupuncture is an effective treatment for AF.This study explored the protective effects of acupuncture in a rat model of paroxysmal AF and investigated its mechanisms.Methods:Male Sprague-Dawley rats(n=130)were randomly divided into blank control(Con),sham operation(Sham),AF,and acupuncture treatment(Acu)groups.A paroxysmal AF model was established by rapid atrial pacing through the jugular vein.Rats in the Acu group were immobilized to receive acupuncture treatment at Neiguan acupoint(PC6)for 20 min daily for seven days.The other groups were immobilized for the same duration over the treatment period but did not receive acupuncture.The AF induction rate,AF duration,cardiac electrophysiological parameters,and heart rate variability were evaluated by monitoring surface electrocardiogram and vagus nerve discharge signals.After the intervention,the rats were euthanized,and atrial morphology was assessed using haematoxylin and eosin staining.The expression of macrophage F4/80 antigen(F4/80)and cluster of differentiation(CD)86 in atrial myocardial tissue was detected using immunohistochemistry,immunofluorescence and flow cytometry.The expression levels or contents of interleukin(IL)-1β,IL-6,tumor necrosis factor-a(TNF-a),a7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor(a7nAChR),phosphorylated Janus kinase 2(p-JAK2),and phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3(p-STAT3)in atrial myocardial tissue were detected using Western blotting,reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction,or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.The role of a7nAChR in acupuncture treatment was verified by intraperitoneal injection of the a7nAChR antagonist methyllycaconitine(MLA).Results:Compared with the AF group,acupuncture significantly reduced AF duration and induction rate,improved cardiac electrophysiology by enhancing vagus nerve activity and regulating autonomic balance.It also decreased the pro-inflammatory M1 macrophage proportion,alleviating myocardial injury and infiltration.MLA weakened acupuncture's electrophysiological improvement and anti-inflammatory effect.Results suggest that acupuncture triggers the a7nAChR-JAK2/STAT3 pathway and exerts cardioprotection via neuroimmune regulation.Conclusion:Acupuncture significantly reduced the AF induction rate,shortened AF duration,improved cardiac electrophysiological parameters,enhanced vagus nerve activity,and decreased the expression of pro-inflammatory M1 macrophages and inflammatory factors in rats with paroxysmal AF.
基金financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grants 22225901,21975237 and 51702312)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(Grant WK2340000101)+5 种基金the USTC Research Funds of the Double First-Class Initiative(Grant YD2340002007 and YD9990002017)the Open Funds of the State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization(Grant RERU2022007)the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(Grants 2023M733371,2024M750006 and 2023T160617)Postdoctoral Fellowship Program(Grade C)of China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(GZC20230008)the Natural Science Foundation Youth Project of Anhui Province(2408085QB065)the Postdoctoral Research Funding Project of Anhui Province(2023B727)。
文摘The electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide(CO_(2))into value-added chemicals and fuels has been extensively studied as a promising strategy for mitigating environmental issues and achieving sustainable energy conversion.Substantial efforts have been made to improve the understanding of CO_(2)reduction reaction(CO_(2)RR)mechanisms by computational and spectroscopic studies.An in-depth understanding of CO_(2)RR mechanism can provide the guidance and criteria for designing high-efficiency catalysts,and hence,steering CO_(2)RR to desired products.This review systematically discusses the formation mechanisms and reaction pathways of various CO_(2)RR products,including C_(1)products(CO,HCOOH,and CH_(4)),C_(2)products(C_(2)H_(4),C_(2)H_(5)OH,and CH_(3)COOH),and C_(3+)products(C_(3)H_(6),C_(3)H_(7)OH,and others).The reaction pathways are elucidated by analyzing the adsorption behavior,energy barriers,and intermediate coupling steps involved in the generation of each product.Particular emphasis is placed on the key intermediates,such as^(*)OCHO,^(*)COOH,^(*)CO,^(*)OCCOH,and^(*)CCO,which play crucial roles in determining the product selectivity.The effects of catalyst composition,morphology,and electronic structure on the adsorption and activation of these intermediates are also discussed.Moreover,advanced characterization techniques,including in-situ spectroscopy and isotopic labeling experiments,are highlighted for their contributions to unraveling the reaction mechanisms.The review aims to provide critical insights to reveal the activity-determining para meters and underlying CO_(2)RR mechanisms,which will guide the rational design of next-generation electrocatalysts for selective CO^(2)RR towards high-value products.
基金supported by the Science&Technology Department of Sichuan Province(No.2019YFS0040)the Improvement Plan of“Xinglin Scholar”Scientific Research Talent,Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine(No.XKTD2022002)。
文摘The activation of the sirtuin1(SIRT1)/nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2(Nrf2)/heme oxygenase 1(HO-1)pathway has been shown to mitigate oxidative stress-induced apoptosis and mitochondrial damage by reducing reactive oxygen species(ROS)levels.Clinical trials have demonstrated that Zhongfeng Xingnao Liquid(ZFXN)ameliorates post-stroke cognitive impairment(PSCI).However,the underlying mechanism,particularly whether it involves protecting mitochondria and inhibiting apoptosis through the SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 pathway,remains unclear.This study employed an oxygen-glucose deprivation(OGD)cell model using SHSY5Y cells and induced PSCI in rats through modified bilateral carotid artery ligation(2VO).The effects of ZFXN on learning and memory,neuroprotective activity,mitochondrial function,oxidative stress,and the SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 pathway were evaluated both in vivo and in vitro.Results indicated that ZFXN significantly increased the B-cell lymphoma 2(Bcl2)/Bcl2-associated X(Bax)ratio,reduced terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated d UTP nickend-labeling(TUNEL)+cells,and markedly improved cognition,synaptic plasticity,and neuronal function in the hippocampus and cortex.Furthermore,ZFXN exhibited potent antioxidant activity,evidenced by decreased ROS and malondialdehyde(MDA)content and increased superoxide dismutase(SOD),catalase(CAT),and glutathione(GSH)levels.ZFXN also demonstrated considerable enhancement of mitochondrial membrane potential(MMP),Tom 20 fluorescence intensity,adenosine triphosphate(ATP)and energy charge(EC)levels,and mitochondrial complexⅠandⅢactivity,thereby inhibiting mitochondrial damage.Additionally,ZFXN significantly increased SIRT1 activity and elevated SIRT1,nuclear Nrf2,and HO-1 levels.Notably,these effects were substantially counteracted when SIRT1 was suppressed by the inhibitor EX-527 in vitro.In conclusion,ZFXN alleviates PSCI by activating the SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 pathway and preventing mitochondrial damage.
文摘OBJECTIVE To explore hypoglycemic effect of 95%ethanol fraction of Nitraria roborowskii Kom(NRK-C)and its possible mechanism evaluated in the type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)mice.METHODS The body weight,organ indices,blood glucose levels,serum biochemical indexes,as well as HE/PAS histopathological section were all analyzed to assess the hypoglycemic effect of NRK-C in T2DM mice induced by a high-fat diet(HFD)combined with six intraperitoneal injections of 35 mg·kg^(-1)of streptozotocin(STZ).The Western blotting and immunofluorescence were further applied to determine the regulatory effect of NRK-C on key signaling proteins.RESULTS The fasting blood glucose levels were significantly reduced after 7 weeks of administration of NRK-C.In addition,NRK-C could also significantly improve glucose tolerance,hepatic glycogen levels,and lipid levels(total cholesterol,triglyceride,low density lipoprotein and high density lipoprotein),and significantly reduced insulin resistance of diabetic mice,which played an important role in the antidiabetic effects.Further mechanism research demonstrated that phosphorylated PI3K expression was up-regulated and p-GSK3βexpression was up-regulated after NRK-C intervention,indicating that NRK-C might exert a potential antidiabetic effect by modulating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.CONCLUSION All these results suggested that NRK-C might improve T2DM and had the potential to be used as an adjunctive therapy.
基金supported by the Scientific Research Foundation for the introduction of talent of Pingdingshan University(No.PXY-BSQD-2022040,PXY-BSQD-2023024)Henan Province Science and Technology Research Project(No.242102310313,232102310460).
文摘Background:Although the buried wood of Phoebe zhennan is known as the“mummy”of the plant kingdom,there is little research on its pharmacological activity.This study endeavored to investigate the effect and mechanism of buried wood of Phoebe zhennan extract(BPE)on physical fatigue mice induced by weight-loaded forced swimming.Methods:Firstly,BPE was obtained by 70%ethanol extraction and freeze-drying processes.Then,the effect of BPE on physical fatigue mice was evaluated by swimming time,rotating stick time,levels of lipid peroxidation,lactate,lactate dehydrogenase,urea nitrogen,creatine kinase and muscle glycogen.Finally,real time fluorescence quantification and western blot were used to investigate the possible mechanism of BPE.Results:BPE could significantly alleviate muscle tissue damage,prolong the exhaustion time of weight-bearing swimming and rotating stick time.Meanwhile,BPE treatment could notably reduce the accumulation of serum lactate,urea nitrogen,and activities of lactate dehydrogenase and creatine kinase,while increasing the levels of glycogen and activities of glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase in muscles.Moreover,BPE treatment obviously increased HO-1,Nrf-2,AMPK,PGC-1αmRNA and protein expressions in the muscles of physical fatigue mice.Conclusion:BPE treatment could ameliorate various impairments and oxidative stress injury induced by physical fatigue via activating Nrf-2/HO-1 and AMPK/PGC-1αsignaling pathway.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32373062)the Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province(ZR2023MC144)Funds of Shandong Province Modern Agricultural Technology System Innovation Team Program(SDAIT-21-10).
文摘Background Deoxynivalenol(DON)is a mycotoxin that severely pollutes feed ingredients,and methods for reducing DON toxicity have become a significant research direction.Chlorogenic acid(CGA)is an active polyphenol found in some plants,which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and a protective effect on animal intestinal health.The effects of CGA on DON-induced pyroptosis in the intestinal porcine epithelial cell line-J2(IPEC-J2)and its potential mechanism were explored in this study.Results IPEC-J2 cells viability and membrane integrity were inversely correlated with DON concentration.Compared to those in the group treated with DON alone at 2,500 ng/mL,pretreatment with 80μmol/L CGA for 4 h significantly improved cell viability(P<0.01),and the alleviation of typical pyroptotic symptoms induced by DON were observed,including reduced cellular DNA fragmentation,decreased release of lactate dehydrogenase(LDH),normalized ROS levels,restoration of extracellularCa2+andK+contents to normal levels(P<0.01),as well as suppressed the enzyme activities of caspase-1 and caspase-4(P<0.01).Additionally,the mRNA expression levels of TNF,MDP,NOD2,TLR4,ASC and GSDMD were significantly improved(P<0.01),while both mRNA and protein expression levels of NF-κB,NLRP3,caspase-1,IL-1βand IL-18 were significantly upregulated(P<0.01)in the CGA+DON group,compare to those in the DON group.Conclusion Pretreatment with 80μmol/L CGA for 4 h effectively alleviated pyroptosis in IPEC-J2 cells induced by 2,500 ng/mL of DON through inhibiting activation of the NF-κB/NLRP3/capase-1 pathway.
文摘The objective of electrochemical CO_(2) reduction technologies(ECRs)is notably audacious:to revolutionize the market by generating fuel and essential chemicals at a more competitive price than petrochemicals can offer,all while prioritizing environmental sustainability.To expedite the commercialization of ECR technology,we discuss here how ECR can reshape the industry landscape through 2e−pathways.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program(2022YFD1600402)Hebei Provincial Major Science and Technology Achievement Transformation Project(21287101Z)Hebei Provincial Innovation and Entrepreneurship Team Project(215A7102D)。
文摘Aging is an inevitable biological phenomenon that involves a multitude of physiological alterations.Dietary interventions are being considered as potential strategies for delaying age-related dysfunction.Unsaponifiable matter(USM),a composition of highly active ingredients found in walnut oil,has demonstrated antioxidant effects.This study aims to explore the neuroprotective effects of USM on d-galactose-treated C57BL/6 mice and elucidate its underlying mechanism,which was validated in PC12 cells treated with d-galactose.The results of behavioral tests demonstrated that USM significantly improved cognitive deficits associated with aging.The morphological analysis demonstrated that USM effectively alleviated hippocampal neuronal damage,synaptic impairment,and mitochondrial dysfunction induced by d-galactose.Furthermore,USM significantly increases the antioxidant enzymes activity while reducing the malondialdehyde and reactive oxygen species levels.The results suggest that USM can mitigate age-related symptoms caused by d-galactose by activating the nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 signaling pathway,which enhances the expression of antioxidant enzymes,restore redox balance,and improves synaptic and mitochondrial functions.This has a positive on improving cognition and memory disorders in elderly mice.
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 Joint Funds of the National Natural Science Foundation of China(U24B20201)National Natural Science Foundation of China(22372007 and 21972010).
文摘The need to secure environmentally sustainable sources of clean fuel has led to intensive research into the catalytic conversion of CO_(2)into valuable C_(2)+compounds.However,the intrinsically sluggish reduction kinetics and competing reaction pathways present challenges in achieving high product selectivity and efficiency.Herein,we focus on the transformation of CO_(2)into C_(2)+products,particularly emphasizing advances in non-copper-based catalytic systems,which have emerged as promising alternatives that present unique electronic structures and adsorption properties.Unlike conventional copper catalysts,these systems offer distinct advantages in selectivity and stability,particularly through the modulation of surface defect engineering.We systematically analyze the main reaction pathways leading to C_(2)+products,including ethylene formation and higher hydrocarbon(C_(2)-4)alcohols and oxygenates,while critically assessing the mechanistic insights that differentiate non-copper catalysts from their Cu-based counterparts.By summarizing recent developments,the key challenges,and optimization strategies,we provide a comprehensive overview of how non-copper catalysts can enable efficient and scalable CO_(2)reduction reactions,with an aim of assisting researchers in their design of novel catalysts that may reach industrial applications.
