Skeletal muscles are essential for locomotion,posture,and metabolic regulation.To understand physiological processes,exercise adaptation,and muscle-related disorders,it is critical to understand the molecular pathways...Skeletal muscles are essential for locomotion,posture,and metabolic regulation.To understand physiological processes,exercise adaptation,and muscle-related disorders,it is critical to understand the molecular pathways that underlie skeletal muscle function.The process of muscle contra ction,orchestrated by a complex interplay of molecular events,is at the core of skeletal muscle function.Muscle contraction is initiated by an action potential and neuromuscular transmission requiring a neuromuscular junction.Within muscle fibers,calcium ions play a critical role in mediating the interaction between actin and myosin filaments that generate force.Regulation of calcium release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum plays a key role in excitation-contraction coupling.The development and growth of skeletal muscle are regulated by a network of molecular pathways collectively known as myogenesis.Myogenic regulators coordinate the diffe rentiation of myoblasts into mature muscle fibers.Signaling pathways regulate muscle protein synthesis and hypertrophy in response to mechanical stimuli and nutrient availability.Seve ral muscle-related diseases,including congenital myasthenic disorders,sarcopenia,muscular dystrophies,and metabolic myopathies,are underpinned by dys regulated molecular pathways in skeletal muscle.Therapeutic interventions aimed at preserving muscle mass and function,enhancing regeneration,and improving metabolic health hold promise by targeting specific molecular pathways.Other molecular signaling pathways in skeletal muscle include the canonical Wnt signaling pathway,a critical regulator of myogenesis,muscle regeneration,and metabolic function,and the Hippo signaling pathway.In recent years,more details have been uncovered about the role of these two pathways during myogenesis and in developing and adult skeletal muscle fibers,and at the neuromuscular junction.In fact,research in the last few years now suggests that these two signaling pathways are interconnected and that they jointly control physiological and pathophysiological processes in muscle fibers.In this review,we will summarize and discuss the data on these two pathways,focusing on their concerted action next to their contribution to skeletal muscle biology.However,an in-depth discussion of the noncanonical Wnt pathway,the fibro/a dipogenic precursors,or the mechanosensory aspects of these pathways is not the focus of this review.展开更多
Zebrafish and human genomes are highly homologous;however,despite this genomic similarity,adult zebrafish can achieve neuronal proliferation,regeneration and functional restoration within 6–8 weeks after spinal cord ...Zebrafish and human genomes are highly homologous;however,despite this genomic similarity,adult zebrafish can achieve neuronal proliferation,regeneration and functional restoration within 6–8 weeks after spinal cord injury,whereas humans cannot.To analyze differentially expressed zebrafish genes between axon-regenerated neurons and axon-non-regenerated neurons after spinal cord injury,and to explore the key genes and pathways of axonal regeneration after spinal cord injury,microarray GSE56842 was analyzed using the online tool,GEO2R,in the Gene Expression Omnibus database.Gene ontology and protein-protein interaction networks were used to analyze the identified differentially expressed genes.Finally,we screened for genes and pathways that may play a role in spinal cord injury repair in zebrafish and mammals.A total of 636 differentially expressed genes were obtained,including 255 up-regulated and 381 down-regulated differentially expressed genes in axon-regenerated neurons.Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment results were also obtained.A protein-protein interaction network contained 480 node genes and 1976 node connections.We also obtained the 10 hub genes with the highest correlation and the two modules with the highest score.The results showed that spectrin may promote axonal regeneration after spinal cord injury in zebrafish.Transforming growth factor beta signaling may inhibit repair after spinal cord injury in zebrafish.Focal adhesion or tight junctions may play an important role in the migration and proliferation of some cells,such as Schwann cells or neural progenitor cells,after spinal cord injury in zebrafish.Bioinformatic analysis identified key candidate genes and pathways in axonal regeneration after spinal cord injury in zebrafish,providing targets for treatment of spinal cord injury in mammals.展开更多
The cGAS–STING pathway plays an important role in ischemia-reperfusion injury in the heart,liver,brain,and kidney,but its role and mechanisms in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury have not been systematically revie...The cGAS–STING pathway plays an important role in ischemia-reperfusion injury in the heart,liver,brain,and kidney,but its role and mechanisms in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury have not been systematically reviewed.Here,we outline the components of the cGAS–STING pathway and then analyze its role in autophagy,ferroptosis,cellular pyroptosis,disequilibrium of calcium homeostasis,inflammatory responses,disruption of the blood–brain barrier,microglia transformation,and complement system activation following cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury.We further analyze the value of cGAS–STING pathway inhibitors in the treatment of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury and conclude that the pathway can regulate cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury through multiple mechanisms.Inhibition of the cGAS–STING pathway may be helpful in the treatment of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury.展开更多
The inflammatory and fibrous responses to injuries are painful and are inhibitory to the regeneration of specialized cells. The fibrous scarring of skin injuries can also be disfiguring. Cells obtain energy not only f...The inflammatory and fibrous responses to injuries are painful and are inhibitory to the regeneration of specialized cells. The fibrous scarring of skin injuries can also be disfiguring. Cells obtain energy not only from the metabolism of food, but also via the alternative cellular energy (ACE) pathway. The ACE pathway is reflected in a dynamic (kinetic) quality of the body’s fluids. It is postulated to result from the absorption of an environmental force called KELEA (kinetic energy limiting electrostatic attraction). The body’s ACE pathway can be enhanced by the parental administration and even the oral consumption of products comprising KELEA activated water. One of these products, termed Enercel, was originally considered a complex homeopathic remedy. Another product is water containing electrolysis-generated, copper-silver-citrate (CSC) complexes. This product was initially formulated to be bacteriocidal, especially for Gram positive bacteria. This article describes the independent successful use of each of these two products in achieving essentially painless, scar-free healing of skin injuries. The skin injuries were due to a variety of causes including: vascular insufficiency from diabetes;hot water burn;penetrating object;chronic infection;and surgical incision. It is proposed that the ACE pathway increases the resilience of cells of the innate immune system to the triggering of an inflammatory reaction by “danger signals” released from damaged tissues. KELEA activated water should be widely available for the urgent therapy of burns and other traumatic injuries to the skin. ACE pathway enhancing modalities also need to be evaluated in the repair of cellular damage occurring to the heart, brain and other internal organs of the body.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
Traumatic brain injury can be categorized into primary and secondary injuries.Secondary injuries are the main cause of disability following traumatic brain injury,which involves a complex multicellular cascade.Microgl...Traumatic brain injury can be categorized into primary and secondary injuries.Secondary injuries are the main cause of disability following traumatic brain injury,which involves a complex multicellular cascade.Microglia play an important role in secondary injury and can be activated in response to traumatic brain injury.In this article,we review the origin and classification of microglia as well as the dynamic changes of microglia in traumatic brain injury.We also clarify the microglial polarization pathways and the therapeutic drugs targeting activated microglia.We found that regulating the signaling pathways involved in pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory microglia,such as the Toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor-kappa B,mitogen-activated protein kinase,Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription,phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B,Notch,and high mobility group box 1 pathways,can alleviate the inflammatory response triggered by microglia in traumatic brain injury,thereby exerting neuroprotective effects.We also reviewed the strategies developed on the basis of these pathways,such as drug and cell replacement therapies.Drugs that modulate inflammatory factors,such as rosuvastatin,have been shown to promote the polarization of antiinflammatory microglia and reduce the inflammatory response caused by traumatic brain injury.Mesenchymal stem cells possess anti-inflammatory properties,and clinical studies have confirmed their significant efficacy and safety in patients with traumatic brain injury.Additionally,advancements in mesenchymal stem cell-delivery methods—such as combinations of novel biomaterials,genetic engineering,and mesenchymal stem cell exosome therapy—have greatly enhanced the efficiency and therapeutic effects of mesenchymal stem cells in animal models.However,numerous challenges in the application of drug and mesenchymal stem cell treatment strategies remain to be addressed.In the future,new technologies,such as single-cell RNA sequencing and transcriptome analysis,can facilitate further experimental studies.Moreover,research involving non-human primates can help translate these treatment strategies to clinical practice.展开更多
The interaction between the gut microbiota and cyclic adenosine monophosphate(cAMP)-protein kinase A(PKA)signaling pathway in the host's central nervous system plays a crucial role in neurological diseases and enh...The interaction between the gut microbiota and cyclic adenosine monophosphate(cAMP)-protein kinase A(PKA)signaling pathway in the host's central nervous system plays a crucial role in neurological diseases and enhances communication along the gut–brain axis.The gut microbiota influences the cAMP-PKA signaling pathway through its metabolites,which activates the vagus nerve and modulates the immune and neuroendocrine systems.Conversely,alterations in the cAMP-PKA signaling pathway can affect the composition of the gut microbiota,creating a dynamic network of microbial-host interactions.This reciprocal regulation affects neurodevelopment,neurotransmitter control,and behavioral traits,thus playing a role in the modulation of neurological diseases.The coordinated activity of the gut microbiota and the cAMP-PKA signaling pathway regulates processes such as amyloid-β protein aggregation,mitochondrial dysfunction,abnormal energy metabolism,microglial activation,oxidative stress,and neurotransmitter release,which collectively influence the onset and progression of neurological diseases.This study explores the complex interplay between the gut microbiota and cAMP-PKA signaling pathway,along with its implications for potential therapeutic interventions in neurological diseases.Recent pharmacological research has shown that restoring the balance between gut flora and cAMP-PKA signaling pathway may improve outcomes in neurodegenerative diseases and emotional disorders.This can be achieved through various methods such as dietary modifications,probiotic supplements,Chinese herbal extracts,combinations of Chinese herbs,and innovative dosage forms.These findings suggest that regulating the gut microbiota and cAMP-PKA signaling pathway may provide valuable evidence for developing novel therapeutic approaches for neurodegenerative diseases.展开更多
Netrin-1 and its receptors play crucial roles in inducing axonal growth and neuronal migration during neuronal development.Their profound impacts then extend into adulthood to encompass the maintenance of neuronal sur...Netrin-1 and its receptors play crucial roles in inducing axonal growth and neuronal migration during neuronal development.Their profound impacts then extend into adulthood to encompass the maintenance of neuronal survival and synaptic function.Increasing amounts of evidence highlight several key points:(1)Diminished Netrin-1 levels exacerbate pathological progression in animal models of Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease,and potentially,similar alterations occur in humans.(2)Genetic mutations of Netrin-1 receptors increase an individuals’susceptibility to neurodegenerative disorders.(3)Therapeutic approaches targeting Netrin-1 and its receptors offer the benefits of enhancing memory and motor function.(4)Netrin-1 and its receptors show genetic and epigenetic alterations in a variety of cancers.These findings provide compelling evidence that Netrin-1 and its receptors are crucial targets in neurodegenerative diseases.Through a comprehensive review of Netrin-1 signaling pathways,our objective is to uncover potential therapeutic avenues for neurodegenerative disorders.展开更多
[Objectives]To investigate the anti-hepatic fibrosis mechanism of lavandulyl flavonoid Kurarinol A(KA)from Sophora flavescens through the TGF/Smad signaling pathway.[Methods]A hepatic fibrosis model was established by...[Objectives]To investigate the anti-hepatic fibrosis mechanism of lavandulyl flavonoid Kurarinol A(KA)from Sophora flavescens through the TGF/Smad signaling pathway.[Methods]A hepatic fibrosis model was established by TGF-β1-induced activation of human hepatic stellate cells LX-2.Western blot and RT-qPCR techniques were employed to study the anti-fibrotic mechanism of KA through the TGF/Smad signaling pathway.[Results]KA exerted anti-hepatic fibrosis effects by significantly reducing the gene expression levels of TGF-β1,Smad2,Smad3,and Smad4,as well as markedly decreasing the protein expression levels of TGF-β1,p-Smad2/3/Smad2/3,and Smad4.[Conclusions]KA demonstrates significant anti-hepatic fibrosis activity and alleviates liver fibrosis through the TGF/Smad signaling pathway.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
Progranulin is closely related to neuronal survival in a neuroinflammatory mouse model and attenuates inflammatory reactions. Atsttrin is an engineered protein composed of three progranulin fragments and has been show...Progranulin is closely related to neuronal survival in a neuroinflammatory mouse model and attenuates inflammatory reactions. Atsttrin is an engineered protein composed of three progranulin fragments and has been shown to have an effect similar to that of progranulin. Atsttrin has anti-inflammatory actions in multiple arthritis mouse models, and it protects against further arthritis development. However, whether Atsttrin has a role in neuroinflammation remains to be elucidated. In this study, we produced a neuroinflammatory mouse model by intracerebroventricular injection of 1 μL lipopolysaccharide(10 μg/μL). Atsttrin(2.5 mg/kg) was administered via intraperitoneal injection every 3 days over a period of 7 days before intracerebroventricular injection of 1 μL lipopolysaccharide(10 μg/μL). In addition, astrocyte cultures were treated with 0, 100 or 300 ng/mL lipopolysaccharide, with 200 ng/mL Atsttrin simultaneously. Immunohistochemistry, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction were performed to examine the protein and mRNA levels of inflammatory mediators and to assess activation of the nuclear factor kappa B signaling pathway. Progranulin expression in the brain of wild-type mice and in astrocyte cultures was increased after lipopolysaccharide administration. The protein and mRNA expression levels of tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β and inducible nitric oxide synthase were increased in the brain of progranulin knockout mice after lipopolysaccharide administration. Atsttrin treatment reduced the lipopolysaccharide-induced increase in the protein and mRNA levels of tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, matrix metalloproteinase-3 and inducible nitric oxide synthase in the brain of progranulin knockout mice. Atsttrin also reduced the expression of cyclooxygenase-2, inducible nitric oxide synthase and matrix metalloproteinase 3 mRNA in lipopolysaccharide-treated astrocytes in vitro, and decreased the concentration of tumor necrosis factor α and interleukin-1β in the supernatant. Furthermore, Atsttrin significantly reduced the levels of phospho-nuclear factor kappa B inhibitor α in the brain of lipopolysaccharide-treated progranulin knockout mice and astrocytes, and it decreased the expression of nuclear factor kappa B2 in astrocytes. Collectively, our findings show that the anti-neuroinflammatory effect of Atsttrin involves inhibiton of the nuclear factor kappa B signaling pathway, and they suggest that Atsttrin may have clinical potential in neuroinflammatory therapy.展开更多
The Wnt/Frizzled signaling pathway participates in many inflammation-linked diseases. However, the inflammatory response mediated by the Wnt/Frizzled signaling pathway in experimental subarachnoid hemorrhage has not b...The Wnt/Frizzled signaling pathway participates in many inflammation-linked diseases. However, the inflammatory response mediated by the Wnt/Frizzled signaling pathway in experimental subarachnoid hemorrhage has not been thoroughly investigated. Consequently, in this study, we examined the potential role of the Wnt/Frizzled signaling pathway in early brain injury in rat models of subarachnoid hemorrhage.Simultaneously, possible neuroprotective mechanisms were also investigated. Experimental subarachnoid hemorrhage rat models were induced by injecting autologous blood into the prechiasmatic cistern. Experiment 1 was designed to examine expression of the Wnt/Frizzled signaling pathway in early brain injury induced by subarachnoid hemorrhage. In total, 42 adult rats were divided into sham(injection of equivalent volume of saline), 6-, 12-, 24-, 48-, 72-hour, and 1-week subarachnoid hemorrhage groups. Experiment 2 was designed to examine neuroprotective mechanisms of the Wnt/Frizzled signaling pathway in early brain injury induced by subarachnoid hemorrhage. Rats were treated with recombinant human Wnt1(rhwnt1), small interfering Wnt1(siwnt1) RNA, and monoclonal antibody of Frizzled1(anti-Frizzled1) at 48 hours after subarachnoid hemorrhage. Expression levels of Wnt1, Frizzled1, β-catenin, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ, CD36, and active nuclear factor-κB were examined by western blot assay and immunofluorescence staining. Microglia type conversion and inflammatory cytokine levels in brain tissue were examined by immunofluorescence staining and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Our results show that compared with the sham group, expression levels of Wnt1, Frizzled1, and β-catenin were low and reduced to a minimum at 48 hours, gradually returning to baseline at 1 week after subarachnoid hemorrhage. rhwnt1 treatment markedly increased Wnt1 expression and alleviated subarachnoid hemorrhage-induced early brain injury(within 72 hours), including cortical cell apoptosis, brain edema, and neurobehavioral deficits, accompanied by increasing protein levels of β-catenin, CD36, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ and decreasing protein levels of nuclear factor-κB. Of note, rhwnt1 promoted M2-type microglia conversion and inhibited release of inflammatory cytokines(interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α). In contrast, siwnt1 RNA and anti-Frizzled1 treatment both resulted in an opposite effect. In conclusion, the Wnt/Frizzled1 signaling pathway may participate in subarachnoid hemorrhage-induced early brain injury via inhibiting the inflammatory response, including regulating microglia type conversion and decreasing inflammatory cytokine release. The study was approved by the Animal Ethics Committee of Anhui Medical University and First Affiliated Hospital of USTC,Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China(approval No. LLSC-20180202) in May 2017.展开更多
BACKGROUND Barrett esophagus(BE),a metaplastic adaptive process to gastrointestinal reflux,is associated with a higher risk of developing esophageal adenocarcinoma.However,the factors and mechanism that drive the mali...BACKGROUND Barrett esophagus(BE),a metaplastic adaptive process to gastrointestinal reflux,is associated with a higher risk of developing esophageal adenocarcinoma.However,the factors and mechanism that drive the malignant progression of BE is not well understood.AIM To investigate the role of bile acids,a component of the reflux fluid,in the malignant progression of BE.METHODS Using engineered green fluorescent protein-labeled adult tissue-resident stem cells isolated from BE clinical biopsies(BE-ASCs)as the target,we studied the effect of hydrophobic deoxycholic acid(DCA)and hydrophilic tetrahydroxylated bile acids(THBA)on cell viability by fluorescence intensity analysis,mucin production by dark density measurement,tissue structure by pathology analysis,expression of different pro-inflammatory factors gene by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and proteins by Western blot.RESULTS We found that hydrophobic DCA has cytotoxic and proinflammatory effects through activation of interleukin-1β(IL-1β)-nuclear factor kappa-B(NF-κB)inflammatory pathway on BE-ASCs.This action results in impaired cell viability,tissue intactness,reduced mucin production,and increased transition to disorganized atypical cells without intestinal features.In contrast,co-culture with hydrophilic THBA inhibited the IL-1β-NF-κB inflammatory pathway with maintenance of mature intestinal type cellular and histomorphology.CONCLUSION Our data indicates that the hydrophilic bile acid THBA can counteract the cytotoxic and proinflammatory effect of hydrophobic DCA and prevent the malignant progression of BE by inhibiting the IL-1β-NF-κB pathway.展开更多
Breast cancer is the leading cause of death in women. Prognosis of breast cancer is often pessimistic because the tumors are prone to metastasizing to the bone, brain, and lung. The estrogen signaling receptor (ESR) p...Breast cancer is the leading cause of death in women. Prognosis of breast cancer is often pessimistic because the tumors are prone to metastasizing to the bone, brain, and lung. The estrogen signaling receptor (ESR) pathway contains 39 main genes and proteins which makes it one of the larger signaling pathways. Predominately this pathway and the proteins within are involved in breast growth and development, making it a prospective area of study for breast cancer. While the healthy ESR pathway has been constructed and is well established, a mechanistic model of mutated genes of ESR pathway has not been delved upon. Such mutated models could be utilized for selecting combinational targets for drug therapies, as well as elucidating crosstalk between other pathways and feedback mechanisms. To construct the mutated models of the ESR pathway it is imperative to assess what is currently understood in the literature and what inconsistencies exist in order to resolve them. Without this information, a model of the ESR pathway will be unreliable and likely unproductive. This review is the detailed literature survey of the biological studies performed on ESR pathways genes, and their respective roles in breast cancer. Furthermore, the details mentioned in the review can be beneficial for the integrated study of the ESR pathway genes, which includes, structural and dynamics study of the genes products, to have a holistic understanding of the cancer mechanism.展开更多
Low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1(LRP1)is a multifunctional endocytic receptor whose dysfunction is linked to developmental dysplasia of the hip,osteoporosis and osteoarthritis.Our work addresses the ...Low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1(LRP1)is a multifunctional endocytic receptor whose dysfunction is linked to developmental dysplasia of the hip,osteoporosis and osteoarthritis.Our work addresses the critical question of how these skeletal pathologies emerge.Here,we show the abundant expression of LRP1 in skeletal progenitor cells at mouse embryonic stage E10.5 and onwards,especially in the perichondrium,the stem cell layer surrounding developing limbs essential for bone formation.Lrp1 deficiency in these stem cells causes joint fusion,malformation of cartilage/bone template and markedly delayed or lack of primary ossification.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
Living organisms derive energy for cellular activities through three primary mechanisms. The first is photosynthesis, which is restricted to plants and certain bacteria. It uses energy in sunlight to combine carbon di...Living organisms derive energy for cellular activities through three primary mechanisms. The first is photosynthesis, which is restricted to plants and certain bacteria. It uses energy in sunlight to combine carbon dioxide with water to form carbohydrates plus oxygen. The second is chemical energy, which is ob-tainable by all organisms from the cellular metabolism of carbohydrates and other organic molecules. The third mechanism of obtaining cellular energy is the alternative cellular energy (ACE) pathway. The ACE pathway is expressed as an added dynamic (kinetic) quality of the body’s fluids. It results from the absorption of an environmental force termed KELEA (kinetic energy limiting electrostatic attraction). The fundamental role of KELEA is presumably to pre-vent the fusion and annihilation of electrostatically attracted opposing electrical charges. KELEA can loosen the hydrogen bonding between fluid molecules. KELEA benefits living organisms in part by enabling more efficient biochemical reactions. Cells require a minimal amount of energy to remain viable. Additional energy is required to undertake specialized cellular functions. Illnesses result if cells have insufficient cellular energy (ICE) for their specialized functions. Since KELEA is attracted to separated electrical charges, it is presumably attracted to the electrical charges comprising the membrane potential of cells. It is proposed that the depolarization of neuronal cells leads to the partial release of KELEA for use by the depolarized cell and as a contribution to the overall activation of the body’s fluids. Many brain illnesses currently attributed to cellular neurodegeneration are explainable as neuronal cells’ adaptations to ICE. The adaptations likely comprise initial hyper-excitability to obtain additional KELEA, followed by functional quiescence prior to actual neuronal cell death. Clinical recovery during both the hyper-excitable and hypoactive phases is potentially achievable by enhancing the ACE pathway. Furthermore, among the restored specialized functions of quiescent neuronal cells may be the capacity to again attract KELEA, leading to sustainable recovery. The opportunity exists for extended clinical trials involving the ACE pathway in neurological and psychiatric illnesses.展开更多
Acacetin(5,7-dihydroxy-4′-methoxyflavone), a potential neuroprotective agent, has an inhibitory effect on lipopolysaccharide-induced neuroinflammatory reactions. However, whether acacetin has an effect on inflammator...Acacetin(5,7-dihydroxy-4′-methoxyflavone), a potential neuroprotective agent, has an inhibitory effect on lipopolysaccharide-induced neuroinflammatory reactions. However, whether acacetin has an effect on inflammatory corpuscle 3(NLRP3) after cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury has not been fully determined. This study used an improved suture method to establish a cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury model in C57BL/6 mice. After ischemia with middle cerebral artery occlusion for 1 hour, reperfusion with intraperitoneal injection of 25 mg/kg of acacetin(acacetin group) or an equal volume of saline(0.1 mL/10 g, middle cerebral artery occlusion group) was used to investigate the effect of acacetin on cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury. Infarct volume and neurological function scores were determined by 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining and the Zea-Longa scoring method. Compared with the middle cerebral artery occlusion group, neurological function scores and cerebral infarction volumes were significantly reduced in the acacetin group. To understand the effect of acacetin on microglia-mediated inflammatory response after cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury, immunohistochemistry for the microglia marker calcium adapter protein ionized calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1(Iba1) was examined in the hippocampus of ischemic brain tissue. In addition, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, and interleukin-6 expression in ischemic brain tissue of mice was quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Expression of Iba1, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β and interleukin-6 was significantly lower in the acacetin group compared with the middle cerebral artery occlusion group. Western blot assay results showed that expression of Toll-like receptor 4, nuclear factor kappa B, NLRP3, procaspase-1, caspase-1, pro-interleukin-1β, and interleukin-1β were significantly lower in the acacetin group compared with the middle cerebral artery occlusion group. Our findings indicate that acacetin has a protective effect on cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury, and its mechanism of action is associated with inhibition of microglia-mediated inflammation and the NLRP3 signaling pathway.展开更多
Objective:To study the effect of estrogen on anovulatory dysfunctional uterine bleeding(ADUB).Methods:Primary endometrial epithelial cells of Hainan Lizu female was cultured and hydrolylic activity of gelalinase was d...Objective:To study the effect of estrogen on anovulatory dysfunctional uterine bleeding(ADUB).Methods:Primary endometrial epithelial cells of Hainan Lizu female was cultured and hydrolylic activity of gelalinase was determined by gelatin zymography analysis.Cellular mRNA and protein synthesis was blocked respectively to determine whether the increased expression of MMP-2/9 was induced by estrogen.The expression of VEGF was blocked by siRNA.After treatment with various factors.MMP-9,VEGF,total Erk and phosphorylated Erk expression in primary uterine epithelial cells was detected by Western blotting analysis.Cell MMP-2/9mRNA levels was measured by real-time RT-PCR.Results:The activity and expression of MMP2/9 was inereased in the endometrium of patients with ADUB.Estrogen could up-regulate the expression of VEGF and activate Erk 1/2-Elk1 signal path.After interference by siRNA,ERK1/2 pathway was blocked in cells,and the expression of MMP-2/9 was down-regulated.ERK1/2 specific blocker U0126 blocked ERK phosphorylation,and it could down-regulate the expression of MMP-2/9.Conclusions:The results showed that the estrogen can increase the expression of VEGF,and thus activate ERK1/2 pathway to induce MMP-2/9 expression.展开更多
With mineral-melt thermobarometers,reconstruction of P-T-depth history of magmas can be established for vol-canic rocks.The pillow lava of Hantangang River Basalt is suitable for the study as it bears narrow compositi...With mineral-melt thermobarometers,reconstruction of P-T-depth history of magmas can be established for vol-canic rocks.The pillow lava of Hantangang River Basalt is suitable for the study as it bears narrow compositional range resulting from little or no fractional crystallization or crustal assimilation and shows evidence of rapid magma ascent.The established thermodynamic model covers the pathway from the magma source depth to the eruption.The model shows that the pillow lava originated at the depths of~85-100 km by fluid ascent from a stagnant slab.This range corresponds to the depth that encompasses the uppermost asthenosphere to the lowermost lithosphere corresponding to the upper garnet to the lower spinel sta-bility fields of the mantle.Subsequently,the melt rose to~66-71 km depth where a primary magma reservoir was generated possibly due to existence of a possible local discontinuity within the upper mantle.The magma uprose rapidly from~61 to~20 km or even to a shallower depth with crystallization of dendritic clinopyroxene and titano-magnetite,due to dehydration of magma.Magma ascent slowed down near the surface possibly due to the volcanic channel split into two or more toward the vents.The model can be applied to other volcanic areas composed of less evolved rocks.展开更多
基金supported by the German Research Council(Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft,HA3309/3-1/2,HA3309/6-1,HA3309/7-1)。
文摘Skeletal muscles are essential for locomotion,posture,and metabolic regulation.To understand physiological processes,exercise adaptation,and muscle-related disorders,it is critical to understand the molecular pathways that underlie skeletal muscle function.The process of muscle contra ction,orchestrated by a complex interplay of molecular events,is at the core of skeletal muscle function.Muscle contraction is initiated by an action potential and neuromuscular transmission requiring a neuromuscular junction.Within muscle fibers,calcium ions play a critical role in mediating the interaction between actin and myosin filaments that generate force.Regulation of calcium release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum plays a key role in excitation-contraction coupling.The development and growth of skeletal muscle are regulated by a network of molecular pathways collectively known as myogenesis.Myogenic regulators coordinate the diffe rentiation of myoblasts into mature muscle fibers.Signaling pathways regulate muscle protein synthesis and hypertrophy in response to mechanical stimuli and nutrient availability.Seve ral muscle-related diseases,including congenital myasthenic disorders,sarcopenia,muscular dystrophies,and metabolic myopathies,are underpinned by dys regulated molecular pathways in skeletal muscle.Therapeutic interventions aimed at preserving muscle mass and function,enhancing regeneration,and improving metabolic health hold promise by targeting specific molecular pathways.Other molecular signaling pathways in skeletal muscle include the canonical Wnt signaling pathway,a critical regulator of myogenesis,muscle regeneration,and metabolic function,and the Hippo signaling pathway.In recent years,more details have been uncovered about the role of these two pathways during myogenesis and in developing and adult skeletal muscle fibers,and at the neuromuscular junction.In fact,research in the last few years now suggests that these two signaling pathways are interconnected and that they jointly control physiological and pathophysiological processes in muscle fibers.In this review,we will summarize and discuss the data on these two pathways,focusing on their concerted action next to their contribution to skeletal muscle biology.However,an in-depth discussion of the noncanonical Wnt pathway,the fibro/a dipogenic precursors,or the mechanosensory aspects of these pathways is not the focus of this review.
基金supported by the State Key Program of National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81330042(to SQF)the International Cooperation Program of the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81620108018(to SQF)
文摘Zebrafish and human genomes are highly homologous;however,despite this genomic similarity,adult zebrafish can achieve neuronal proliferation,regeneration and functional restoration within 6–8 weeks after spinal cord injury,whereas humans cannot.To analyze differentially expressed zebrafish genes between axon-regenerated neurons and axon-non-regenerated neurons after spinal cord injury,and to explore the key genes and pathways of axonal regeneration after spinal cord injury,microarray GSE56842 was analyzed using the online tool,GEO2R,in the Gene Expression Omnibus database.Gene ontology and protein-protein interaction networks were used to analyze the identified differentially expressed genes.Finally,we screened for genes and pathways that may play a role in spinal cord injury repair in zebrafish and mammals.A total of 636 differentially expressed genes were obtained,including 255 up-regulated and 381 down-regulated differentially expressed genes in axon-regenerated neurons.Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment results were also obtained.A protein-protein interaction network contained 480 node genes and 1976 node connections.We also obtained the 10 hub genes with the highest correlation and the two modules with the highest score.The results showed that spectrin may promote axonal regeneration after spinal cord injury in zebrafish.Transforming growth factor beta signaling may inhibit repair after spinal cord injury in zebrafish.Focal adhesion or tight junctions may play an important role in the migration and proliferation of some cells,such as Schwann cells or neural progenitor cells,after spinal cord injury in zebrafish.Bioinformatic analysis identified key candidate genes and pathways in axonal regeneration after spinal cord injury in zebrafish,providing targets for treatment of spinal cord injury in mammals.
基金supported by Yuan Du Scholars,Clinical Research Center of Affiliated Hospital of Shandong Second Medical University,No.2022WYFYLCYJ02Weifang Key Laboratory,Weifang Science and Technology Development Plan Project Medical Category,No.2022YX093.
文摘The cGAS–STING pathway plays an important role in ischemia-reperfusion injury in the heart,liver,brain,and kidney,but its role and mechanisms in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury have not been systematically reviewed.Here,we outline the components of the cGAS–STING pathway and then analyze its role in autophagy,ferroptosis,cellular pyroptosis,disequilibrium of calcium homeostasis,inflammatory responses,disruption of the blood–brain barrier,microglia transformation,and complement system activation following cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury.We further analyze the value of cGAS–STING pathway inhibitors in the treatment of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury and conclude that the pathway can regulate cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury through multiple mechanisms.Inhibition of the cGAS–STING pathway may be helpful in the treatment of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury.
文摘The inflammatory and fibrous responses to injuries are painful and are inhibitory to the regeneration of specialized cells. The fibrous scarring of skin injuries can also be disfiguring. Cells obtain energy not only from the metabolism of food, but also via the alternative cellular energy (ACE) pathway. The ACE pathway is reflected in a dynamic (kinetic) quality of the body’s fluids. It is postulated to result from the absorption of an environmental force called KELEA (kinetic energy limiting electrostatic attraction). The body’s ACE pathway can be enhanced by the parental administration and even the oral consumption of products comprising KELEA activated water. One of these products, termed Enercel, was originally considered a complex homeopathic remedy. Another product is water containing electrolysis-generated, copper-silver-citrate (CSC) complexes. This product was initially formulated to be bacteriocidal, especially for Gram positive bacteria. This article describes the independent successful use of each of these two products in achieving essentially painless, scar-free healing of skin injuries. The skin injuries were due to a variety of causes including: vascular insufficiency from diabetes;hot water burn;penetrating object;chronic infection;and surgical incision. It is proposed that the ACE pathway increases the resilience of cells of the innate immune system to the triggering of an inflammatory reaction by “danger signals” released from damaged tissues. KELEA activated water should be widely available for the urgent therapy of burns and other traumatic injuries to the skin. ACE pathway enhancing modalities also need to be evaluated in the repair of cellular damage occurring to the heart, brain and other internal organs of the body.
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 the Natural Science Foundation of Yunnan Province,No.202401AS070086(to ZW)the National Key Research and Development Program of China,No.2018YFA0801403(to ZW)+1 种基金Yunnan Science and Technology Talent and Platform Plan,No.202105AC160041(to ZW)the Natural Science Foundation of China,No.31960120(to ZW)。
文摘Traumatic brain injury can be categorized into primary and secondary injuries.Secondary injuries are the main cause of disability following traumatic brain injury,which involves a complex multicellular cascade.Microglia play an important role in secondary injury and can be activated in response to traumatic brain injury.In this article,we review the origin and classification of microglia as well as the dynamic changes of microglia in traumatic brain injury.We also clarify the microglial polarization pathways and the therapeutic drugs targeting activated microglia.We found that regulating the signaling pathways involved in pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory microglia,such as the Toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor-kappa B,mitogen-activated protein kinase,Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription,phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B,Notch,and high mobility group box 1 pathways,can alleviate the inflammatory response triggered by microglia in traumatic brain injury,thereby exerting neuroprotective effects.We also reviewed the strategies developed on the basis of these pathways,such as drug and cell replacement therapies.Drugs that modulate inflammatory factors,such as rosuvastatin,have been shown to promote the polarization of antiinflammatory microglia and reduce the inflammatory response caused by traumatic brain injury.Mesenchymal stem cells possess anti-inflammatory properties,and clinical studies have confirmed their significant efficacy and safety in patients with traumatic brain injury.Additionally,advancements in mesenchymal stem cell-delivery methods—such as combinations of novel biomaterials,genetic engineering,and mesenchymal stem cell exosome therapy—have greatly enhanced the efficiency and therapeutic effects of mesenchymal stem cells in animal models.However,numerous challenges in the application of drug and mesenchymal stem cell treatment strategies remain to be addressed.In the future,new technologies,such as single-cell RNA sequencing and transcriptome analysis,can facilitate further experimental studies.Moreover,research involving non-human primates can help translate these treatment strategies to clinical practice.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82003965the Science and Technology Research Project of Sichuan Provincial Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine,No.2024MS167(to LH)+2 种基金the Xinglin Scholar Program of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine,No.QJRC2022033(to LH)the Improvement Plan for the'Xinglin Scholar'Scientific Research Talent Program at Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine,No.XKTD2023002(to LH)the 2023 National Project of the College Students'Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Program at Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine,No.202310633028(to FD)。
文摘The interaction between the gut microbiota and cyclic adenosine monophosphate(cAMP)-protein kinase A(PKA)signaling pathway in the host's central nervous system plays a crucial role in neurological diseases and enhances communication along the gut–brain axis.The gut microbiota influences the cAMP-PKA signaling pathway through its metabolites,which activates the vagus nerve and modulates the immune and neuroendocrine systems.Conversely,alterations in the cAMP-PKA signaling pathway can affect the composition of the gut microbiota,creating a dynamic network of microbial-host interactions.This reciprocal regulation affects neurodevelopment,neurotransmitter control,and behavioral traits,thus playing a role in the modulation of neurological diseases.The coordinated activity of the gut microbiota and the cAMP-PKA signaling pathway regulates processes such as amyloid-β protein aggregation,mitochondrial dysfunction,abnormal energy metabolism,microglial activation,oxidative stress,and neurotransmitter release,which collectively influence the onset and progression of neurological diseases.This study explores the complex interplay between the gut microbiota and cAMP-PKA signaling pathway,along with its implications for potential therapeutic interventions in neurological diseases.Recent pharmacological research has shown that restoring the balance between gut flora and cAMP-PKA signaling pathway may improve outcomes in neurodegenerative diseases and emotional disorders.This can be achieved through various methods such as dietary modifications,probiotic supplements,Chinese herbal extracts,combinations of Chinese herbs,and innovative dosage forms.These findings suggest that regulating the gut microbiota and cAMP-PKA signaling pathway may provide valuable evidence for developing novel therapeutic approaches for neurodegenerative diseases.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Youth Science Fund Project),No.81901292(to GC)the National Key Research and Development Program of China,No.2021YFC2502100(to GC)the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82071183(to ZZ).
文摘Netrin-1 and its receptors play crucial roles in inducing axonal growth and neuronal migration during neuronal development.Their profound impacts then extend into adulthood to encompass the maintenance of neuronal survival and synaptic function.Increasing amounts of evidence highlight several key points:(1)Diminished Netrin-1 levels exacerbate pathological progression in animal models of Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease,and potentially,similar alterations occur in humans.(2)Genetic mutations of Netrin-1 receptors increase an individuals’susceptibility to neurodegenerative disorders.(3)Therapeutic approaches targeting Netrin-1 and its receptors offer the benefits of enhancing memory and motor function.(4)Netrin-1 and its receptors show genetic and epigenetic alterations in a variety of cancers.These findings provide compelling evidence that Netrin-1 and its receptors are crucial targets in neurodegenerative diseases.Through a comprehensive review of Netrin-1 signaling pathways,our objective is to uncover potential therapeutic avenues for neurodegenerative disorders.
基金Supported by Guizhou Provincial Science and Technology Project(2024-023ZK2024-047,2024-015)+3 种基金the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Program for Undergraduates from China(202310660082,S2024106601432X)University Engineering Research Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Diseases by Authentic Medicinal Materials in Guizhou Province(2023-035)Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Guizhou Province(QZYY-2024-134)Science Foundation of the Health Commission of Guizhou Province(gzwkj2025-538).
文摘[Objectives]To investigate the anti-hepatic fibrosis mechanism of lavandulyl flavonoid Kurarinol A(KA)from Sophora flavescens through the TGF/Smad signaling pathway.[Methods]A hepatic fibrosis model was established by TGF-β1-induced activation of human hepatic stellate cells LX-2.Western blot and RT-qPCR techniques were employed to study the anti-fibrotic mechanism of KA through the TGF/Smad signaling pathway.[Results]KA exerted anti-hepatic fibrosis effects by significantly reducing the gene expression levels of TGF-β1,Smad2,Smad3,and Smad4,as well as markedly decreasing the protein expression levels of TGF-β1,p-Smad2/3/Smad2/3,and Smad4.[Conclusions]KA demonstrates significant anti-hepatic fibrosis activity and alleviates liver fibrosis through the TGF/Smad signaling pathway.
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 Foundation of China,No.81572191(to LC)and 81601067(to HZ)
文摘Progranulin is closely related to neuronal survival in a neuroinflammatory mouse model and attenuates inflammatory reactions. Atsttrin is an engineered protein composed of three progranulin fragments and has been shown to have an effect similar to that of progranulin. Atsttrin has anti-inflammatory actions in multiple arthritis mouse models, and it protects against further arthritis development. However, whether Atsttrin has a role in neuroinflammation remains to be elucidated. In this study, we produced a neuroinflammatory mouse model by intracerebroventricular injection of 1 μL lipopolysaccharide(10 μg/μL). Atsttrin(2.5 mg/kg) was administered via intraperitoneal injection every 3 days over a period of 7 days before intracerebroventricular injection of 1 μL lipopolysaccharide(10 μg/μL). In addition, astrocyte cultures were treated with 0, 100 or 300 ng/mL lipopolysaccharide, with 200 ng/mL Atsttrin simultaneously. Immunohistochemistry, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction were performed to examine the protein and mRNA levels of inflammatory mediators and to assess activation of the nuclear factor kappa B signaling pathway. Progranulin expression in the brain of wild-type mice and in astrocyte cultures was increased after lipopolysaccharide administration. The protein and mRNA expression levels of tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β and inducible nitric oxide synthase were increased in the brain of progranulin knockout mice after lipopolysaccharide administration. Atsttrin treatment reduced the lipopolysaccharide-induced increase in the protein and mRNA levels of tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, matrix metalloproteinase-3 and inducible nitric oxide synthase in the brain of progranulin knockout mice. Atsttrin also reduced the expression of cyclooxygenase-2, inducible nitric oxide synthase and matrix metalloproteinase 3 mRNA in lipopolysaccharide-treated astrocytes in vitro, and decreased the concentration of tumor necrosis factor α and interleukin-1β in the supernatant. Furthermore, Atsttrin significantly reduced the levels of phospho-nuclear factor kappa B inhibitor α in the brain of lipopolysaccharide-treated progranulin knockout mice and astrocytes, and it decreased the expression of nuclear factor kappa B2 in astrocytes. Collectively, our findings show that the anti-neuroinflammatory effect of Atsttrin involves inhibiton of the nuclear factor kappa B signaling pathway, and they suggest that Atsttrin may have clinical potential in neuroinflammatory therapy.
基金supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Anhui Province of China,No.1508085QH184(to YW)
文摘The Wnt/Frizzled signaling pathway participates in many inflammation-linked diseases. However, the inflammatory response mediated by the Wnt/Frizzled signaling pathway in experimental subarachnoid hemorrhage has not been thoroughly investigated. Consequently, in this study, we examined the potential role of the Wnt/Frizzled signaling pathway in early brain injury in rat models of subarachnoid hemorrhage.Simultaneously, possible neuroprotective mechanisms were also investigated. Experimental subarachnoid hemorrhage rat models were induced by injecting autologous blood into the prechiasmatic cistern. Experiment 1 was designed to examine expression of the Wnt/Frizzled signaling pathway in early brain injury induced by subarachnoid hemorrhage. In total, 42 adult rats were divided into sham(injection of equivalent volume of saline), 6-, 12-, 24-, 48-, 72-hour, and 1-week subarachnoid hemorrhage groups. Experiment 2 was designed to examine neuroprotective mechanisms of the Wnt/Frizzled signaling pathway in early brain injury induced by subarachnoid hemorrhage. Rats were treated with recombinant human Wnt1(rhwnt1), small interfering Wnt1(siwnt1) RNA, and monoclonal antibody of Frizzled1(anti-Frizzled1) at 48 hours after subarachnoid hemorrhage. Expression levels of Wnt1, Frizzled1, β-catenin, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ, CD36, and active nuclear factor-κB were examined by western blot assay and immunofluorescence staining. Microglia type conversion and inflammatory cytokine levels in brain tissue were examined by immunofluorescence staining and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Our results show that compared with the sham group, expression levels of Wnt1, Frizzled1, and β-catenin were low and reduced to a minimum at 48 hours, gradually returning to baseline at 1 week after subarachnoid hemorrhage. rhwnt1 treatment markedly increased Wnt1 expression and alleviated subarachnoid hemorrhage-induced early brain injury(within 72 hours), including cortical cell apoptosis, brain edema, and neurobehavioral deficits, accompanied by increasing protein levels of β-catenin, CD36, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ and decreasing protein levels of nuclear factor-κB. Of note, rhwnt1 promoted M2-type microglia conversion and inhibited release of inflammatory cytokines(interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α). In contrast, siwnt1 RNA and anti-Frizzled1 treatment both resulted in an opposite effect. In conclusion, the Wnt/Frizzled1 signaling pathway may participate in subarachnoid hemorrhage-induced early brain injury via inhibiting the inflammatory response, including regulating microglia type conversion and decreasing inflammatory cytokine release. The study was approved by the Animal Ethics Committee of Anhui Medical University and First Affiliated Hospital of USTC,Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China(approval No. LLSC-20180202) in May 2017.
文摘BACKGROUND Barrett esophagus(BE),a metaplastic adaptive process to gastrointestinal reflux,is associated with a higher risk of developing esophageal adenocarcinoma.However,the factors and mechanism that drive the malignant progression of BE is not well understood.AIM To investigate the role of bile acids,a component of the reflux fluid,in the malignant progression of BE.METHODS Using engineered green fluorescent protein-labeled adult tissue-resident stem cells isolated from BE clinical biopsies(BE-ASCs)as the target,we studied the effect of hydrophobic deoxycholic acid(DCA)and hydrophilic tetrahydroxylated bile acids(THBA)on cell viability by fluorescence intensity analysis,mucin production by dark density measurement,tissue structure by pathology analysis,expression of different pro-inflammatory factors gene by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and proteins by Western blot.RESULTS We found that hydrophobic DCA has cytotoxic and proinflammatory effects through activation of interleukin-1β(IL-1β)-nuclear factor kappa-B(NF-κB)inflammatory pathway on BE-ASCs.This action results in impaired cell viability,tissue intactness,reduced mucin production,and increased transition to disorganized atypical cells without intestinal features.In contrast,co-culture with hydrophilic THBA inhibited the IL-1β-NF-κB inflammatory pathway with maintenance of mature intestinal type cellular and histomorphology.CONCLUSION Our data indicates that the hydrophilic bile acid THBA can counteract the cytotoxic and proinflammatory effect of hydrophobic DCA and prevent the malignant progression of BE by inhibiting the IL-1β-NF-κB pathway.
文摘Breast cancer is the leading cause of death in women. Prognosis of breast cancer is often pessimistic because the tumors are prone to metastasizing to the bone, brain, and lung. The estrogen signaling receptor (ESR) pathway contains 39 main genes and proteins which makes it one of the larger signaling pathways. Predominately this pathway and the proteins within are involved in breast growth and development, making it a prospective area of study for breast cancer. While the healthy ESR pathway has been constructed and is well established, a mechanistic model of mutated genes of ESR pathway has not been delved upon. Such mutated models could be utilized for selecting combinational targets for drug therapies, as well as elucidating crosstalk between other pathways and feedback mechanisms. To construct the mutated models of the ESR pathway it is imperative to assess what is currently understood in the literature and what inconsistencies exist in order to resolve them. Without this information, a model of the ESR pathway will be unreliable and likely unproductive. This review is the detailed literature survey of the biological studies performed on ESR pathways genes, and their respective roles in breast cancer. Furthermore, the details mentioned in the review can be beneficial for the integrated study of the ESR pathway genes, which includes, structural and dynamics study of the genes products, to have a holistic understanding of the cancer mechanism.
基金The Andor dragonfly Spinning Disk microscope in the CCI was funded by the BBSRC(BB/R01390X/1)This work was supported by the ministry of education of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia(to M.Alhashmi)+6 种基金Libyan Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research and ECMage(to A.M.E.Gremida)Qatar National Research Fund(to N.A.Al-Maslamani)European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie grant agreement(860635 to M.Antonaci and A.Kerr)BBSRC Grants(BB/T00715X/1 to S.K.Maharana and G.N.WheelerBB/X000907/1 to D.A.Turner)Versus Arthritis Career Development Fellowship(21447 to K.Yamamoto)Versus Arthritis Bridging Fellowship(23137 to K.Yamamoto).
文摘Low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1(LRP1)is a multifunctional endocytic receptor whose dysfunction is linked to developmental dysplasia of the hip,osteoporosis and osteoarthritis.Our work addresses the critical question of how these skeletal pathologies emerge.Here,we show the abundant expression of LRP1 in skeletal progenitor cells at mouse embryonic stage E10.5 and onwards,especially in the perichondrium,the stem cell layer surrounding developing limbs essential for bone formation.Lrp1 deficiency in these stem cells causes joint fusion,malformation of cartilage/bone template and markedly delayed or lack of primary ossification.
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.
文摘Living organisms derive energy for cellular activities through three primary mechanisms. The first is photosynthesis, which is restricted to plants and certain bacteria. It uses energy in sunlight to combine carbon dioxide with water to form carbohydrates plus oxygen. The second is chemical energy, which is ob-tainable by all organisms from the cellular metabolism of carbohydrates and other organic molecules. The third mechanism of obtaining cellular energy is the alternative cellular energy (ACE) pathway. The ACE pathway is expressed as an added dynamic (kinetic) quality of the body’s fluids. It results from the absorption of an environmental force termed KELEA (kinetic energy limiting electrostatic attraction). The fundamental role of KELEA is presumably to pre-vent the fusion and annihilation of electrostatically attracted opposing electrical charges. KELEA can loosen the hydrogen bonding between fluid molecules. KELEA benefits living organisms in part by enabling more efficient biochemical reactions. Cells require a minimal amount of energy to remain viable. Additional energy is required to undertake specialized cellular functions. Illnesses result if cells have insufficient cellular energy (ICE) for their specialized functions. Since KELEA is attracted to separated electrical charges, it is presumably attracted to the electrical charges comprising the membrane potential of cells. It is proposed that the depolarization of neuronal cells leads to the partial release of KELEA for use by the depolarized cell and as a contribution to the overall activation of the body’s fluids. Many brain illnesses currently attributed to cellular neurodegeneration are explainable as neuronal cells’ adaptations to ICE. The adaptations likely comprise initial hyper-excitability to obtain additional KELEA, followed by functional quiescence prior to actual neuronal cell death. Clinical recovery during both the hyper-excitable and hypoactive phases is potentially achievable by enhancing the ACE pathway. Furthermore, among the restored specialized functions of quiescent neuronal cells may be the capacity to again attract KELEA, leading to sustainable recovery. The opportunity exists for extended clinical trials involving the ACE pathway in neurological and psychiatric illnesses.
基金supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of China,No.2016D01C120(to JB)
文摘Acacetin(5,7-dihydroxy-4′-methoxyflavone), a potential neuroprotective agent, has an inhibitory effect on lipopolysaccharide-induced neuroinflammatory reactions. However, whether acacetin has an effect on inflammatory corpuscle 3(NLRP3) after cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury has not been fully determined. This study used an improved suture method to establish a cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury model in C57BL/6 mice. After ischemia with middle cerebral artery occlusion for 1 hour, reperfusion with intraperitoneal injection of 25 mg/kg of acacetin(acacetin group) or an equal volume of saline(0.1 mL/10 g, middle cerebral artery occlusion group) was used to investigate the effect of acacetin on cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury. Infarct volume and neurological function scores were determined by 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining and the Zea-Longa scoring method. Compared with the middle cerebral artery occlusion group, neurological function scores and cerebral infarction volumes were significantly reduced in the acacetin group. To understand the effect of acacetin on microglia-mediated inflammatory response after cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury, immunohistochemistry for the microglia marker calcium adapter protein ionized calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1(Iba1) was examined in the hippocampus of ischemic brain tissue. In addition, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, and interleukin-6 expression in ischemic brain tissue of mice was quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Expression of Iba1, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β and interleukin-6 was significantly lower in the acacetin group compared with the middle cerebral artery occlusion group. Western blot assay results showed that expression of Toll-like receptor 4, nuclear factor kappa B, NLRP3, procaspase-1, caspase-1, pro-interleukin-1β, and interleukin-1β were significantly lower in the acacetin group compared with the middle cerebral artery occlusion group. Our findings indicate that acacetin has a protective effect on cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury, and its mechanism of action is associated with inhibition of microglia-mediated inflammation and the NLRP3 signaling pathway.
基金supported by Natural Science Foundation of Hainan Province(No.812148)
文摘Objective:To study the effect of estrogen on anovulatory dysfunctional uterine bleeding(ADUB).Methods:Primary endometrial epithelial cells of Hainan Lizu female was cultured and hydrolylic activity of gelalinase was determined by gelatin zymography analysis.Cellular mRNA and protein synthesis was blocked respectively to determine whether the increased expression of MMP-2/9 was induced by estrogen.The expression of VEGF was blocked by siRNA.After treatment with various factors.MMP-9,VEGF,total Erk and phosphorylated Erk expression in primary uterine epithelial cells was detected by Western blotting analysis.Cell MMP-2/9mRNA levels was measured by real-time RT-PCR.Results:The activity and expression of MMP2/9 was inereased in the endometrium of patients with ADUB.Estrogen could up-regulate the expression of VEGF and activate Erk 1/2-Elk1 signal path.After interference by siRNA,ERK1/2 pathway was blocked in cells,and the expression of MMP-2/9 was down-regulated.ERK1/2 specific blocker U0126 blocked ERK phosphorylation,and it could down-regulate the expression of MMP-2/9.Conclusions:The results showed that the estrogen can increase the expression of VEGF,and thus activate ERK1/2 pathway to induce MMP-2/9 expression.
基金supported by the 2021 Research Project for UNESCO Hantangang River Global Geopark supported by Gyeonggi Provincial Office(Grant No.20210606641-00)Basic Science Research Program through the National Research Foundation of Korea(NRF)funded by the Ministry of Education(No.2019R1A6A1A03033167).
文摘With mineral-melt thermobarometers,reconstruction of P-T-depth history of magmas can be established for vol-canic rocks.The pillow lava of Hantangang River Basalt is suitable for the study as it bears narrow compositional range resulting from little or no fractional crystallization or crustal assimilation and shows evidence of rapid magma ascent.The established thermodynamic model covers the pathway from the magma source depth to the eruption.The model shows that the pillow lava originated at the depths of~85-100 km by fluid ascent from a stagnant slab.This range corresponds to the depth that encompasses the uppermost asthenosphere to the lowermost lithosphere corresponding to the upper garnet to the lower spinel sta-bility fields of the mantle.Subsequently,the melt rose to~66-71 km depth where a primary magma reservoir was generated possibly due to existence of a possible local discontinuity within the upper mantle.The magma uprose rapidly from~61 to~20 km or even to a shallower depth with crystallization of dendritic clinopyroxene and titano-magnetite,due to dehydration of magma.Magma ascent slowed down near the surface possibly due to the volcanic channel split into two or more toward the vents.The model can be applied to other volcanic areas composed of less evolved rocks.
