Copper-instigated modulatory cell mortality mechanisms and progress in kidney diseases

Copper is a vital cofactor in various enzymes, plays a pivotal role in maintaining cell homeostasis. When copper metabolism is disordered and mitochondrial dysfunction is impaired, programmed cell death such as apoptosis, paraptosis, pyroptosis, ferroptosis, cuproptosis, autophagy and necroptosis can be induced. In this review, we focus on the metabolic mechanisms of copper. In addition, we discuss the mechanism by which copper induces various programmed cell deaths. Finally, this review examines copper's involvement in prevalent kidney diseases such as acute kidney injury and chronic kidney disease. The findings indicate that the use of copper chelators or plant extracts can mitigate kidney damage by reducing copper accumulation, offering novel insights into the pathogenesis and treatment strategies for kidney diseases.

Recovery of the injured neural system through gene delivery to surviving neurons in Parkinson's disease

A critical unaddressed problem in Parkinson's disease is the lack of therapy that slows or hampers neurodegeneration. While medications effectively manage symptoms, they offer no long-term benefit because they fail to address the underlying neuronal loss. This highlights that the elusive goals of halting progression and restoring damaged neurons limit the long-term impact of current approaches. Recent clinical trials using gene therapy have demonstrated the safety of various vector delivery systems, dosages, and transgenes expressed in the central nervous system, signifying tangible and substantial progress in applying gene therapy as a promising Parkinson's disease treatment. Intriguingly, at diagnosis, many dopamine neurons remain in the substantia nigra, offering a potential window for recovery and survival. We propose that modulating these surviving dopamine neurons and axons in the substantia nigra and striatum using gene therapy offers a potentially more impactful therapeutic approach for future research. Moreover, innovative gene therapies that focus on preserving the remaining elements may have significant potential for enhancing long-term outcomes and the quality of life for patients with Parkinson's disease. In this review, we provide a perspective on how gene therapy can protect vulnerable elements in the substantia nigra and striatum, offering a novel approach to addressing Parkinson's disease at its core.

Reprogramming of lipids and amino acids metabolism is an early event in myocardium of type 1 diabetic rhesus monkeys

Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DC) refers to the abnormal myocardial structure and performance induced by diabetes. Although numerous studies have been carried out, the pathophysiological mechanisms of cardiovascular disorders during diabetes have not been fully clarified. Here, we compared the cardiomyopathy of healthy rhesus monkeys and rhesus monkeys with a history of streptozocin induced type 1 diabetes (T1D) over 7 years. Through comparing the cardiac function using echocardiography, and detecting the serum biochemical indexes, and changes of left ventricle (LV), we found that decreased systolic function, higher blood glycosylated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1C) level, hyperglycemia, and hyperlipidemia were early events in diabetic rhesus monkeys. In addition, cardiac histological analysis showed mildly fibrosis and early myocardial hypertrophy, as evidenced by increased Sirius red stained area and cross-sectional area of left ventricle. Transcriptome results revealed that the nutrients metabolism and extracellular matrix related pathways were markedly changed in the left ventricle of diabetic monkeys. Targeted metabolomics and targeted lipid metabolomics further revealed that disturbed amino acid metabolism and lipid accumulation in the LV of diabetic monkeys manifested by accumulated branched chain amino acids (BCAAs) and triglycerides (TAGs), and reduced contents of sphingolipids, glycerophospholipids, cholesteryl esters and carnitines. In conclusion, we reported here for the first time that diabetes lasting for more than 7 years leads to some early pathological changes of myocardium in rhesus monkeys. The cardiac function is mildly compromised and the reprogramming of lipids and amino acids metabolism might play important roles in the progression of DC.

FBXW7 mediates high glucose-induced epithelial to mesenchymal transition via KLF5 in renal tubular cells of diabetic kidney disease

F-box and WD repeat domain-containing 7 (FBXW7) protein is known as one of the crucial components of the E3 ubiquitin ligase called the Skp1-Cullin1-F-box (SCF) complex, which regulates the degradation of a network of proteins via the ubiquitin-proteasome system. In our study, we investigated the latent impact of FBXW7 on renal tubular cells injury and its molecular mechanism in diabetic kidney disease (DKD). FBXW7 was upregulated in kidneys of diabetic mice and human renal proximal tubular cells exposed to high glucose. Again, the function of experiment found that overexpression of FBXW7 led to epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of HK2 cells, as indicated by decreased E-cadherin and increased α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA). Knockdown of FBXW7 ameliorated high glucose-induced EMT of HK2 cells via downregulation of TGF-β1. Then, FBXW7 overexpression downregulated the stability of the KLF5 protein and promoted protein ubiquitination in normal glucose-cultured HK2 cells, which was significantly reversed by the addition of MG132, a specific proteasome inhibitor. Furthermore, overexpression of KLF5 effectively prevented FBXW7 upregulation-induced EMT in HK2 cells. Finally, chemical inhibitors or mTOR kinase dead vector to interfere the activity of mTOR effectively suppressed FBXW7 expression in HK2 cells treated with high glucose. Taken together, these above data suggest that mTOR signaling pathway-regulated FBXW7 mediates high glucose-induced EMT of renal tubular cells by affecting the stability of KLF5.

Effect of metabolic disorders on reactive gliosis and glial scarring at the early subacute phase of stroke in a mouse model of diabetes and obesity

It is well recognized that type II Diabetes (T2D) and overweight/obesity are established risk factors for stroke, worsening also their consequences. However, the underlying mechanisms by which these disorders aggravate outcomes are not yet clear limiting the therapeutic opportunities. To fill this gap, we characterized, for the first time, the effects of T2D and obesity on the brain repair mechanisms occurring 7 days after stroke, notably glial scarring. In the present study, by performing a 30-minute middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) on db/db (obese diabetics mice) and db/+ (controls) mice, we demonstrated that obese and diabetic mice displayed larger lesions (i.e. increased infarct volume, ischemic core, apoptotic cell number) and worsened neurological outcomes compared to their control littermates. We then investigated the formation of the glial scar in control and db/db mice 7 days post-stroke. Our observations argue in favor of a stronger and more persistent activation of astrocytes and microglia in db/db mice. Furthermore, an increased deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) was observed in db/db vs control mice (i.e. chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan and collagen type IV). Consequently, we demonstrated for the first time that the db/db status is associated with increased astrocytic and microglial activation 7 days after stroke and resulted in higher deposition of ECM within the damaged area. Interestingly, the injury-induced neurogenesis appeared stronger in db/db as shown by the labeling of migrating neuroblast. This increase appeared correlated to the larger size of lesion. It nevertheless raises the question of the functional integration of the new neurons in db/db mice given the observed dense ECM, known to be repulsive for neuronal migration. Carefully limiting glial scar formation after stroke represents a promising area of research for reducing neuronal loss and limiting disability in diabetic/obese patients.

Biomonitoring of metals in the blood and urine of waste recyclers from exposure to airborne fine particulate matter (PM2.5)

This is the first systematic investigation of occupational exposure to toxic metals among waste recyclers in municipal waste recycling facilities. Concentrations of heavy metals (HMs) in the blood and urine of exposed recyclers in different jobs were compared to control groups (administrative department), identifying possible work-related and socio-demographic exposure factors. The potential relationship between HMs levels in PM2.5 and HM concentrations in the blood and urine of recyclers was studied for ten elements. Mean concentrations of HMs of recyclers were significantly higher than for the control group. Over 50% of the waste recyclers had HM levels higher than the recommended limits. The study revealed that most of the waste recyclers engaged in a minimum of three tasks, posing a challenge in establishing a correlation between specific tasks and the levels of elements monitored through biomonitoring. Co levels in blood and Fe levels in the urine of waste recyclers have a significant relationship with the increase in daily working hours. Among the variables related to the participant's demographic information, the level of education and monthly income were significantly different compared to the control group. Also, a significant correlation was found between HM levels in PM2.5 personal exposure and recyclers' urine and blood. Management controls include workflow or, in other words, alternate relocation of workers exposed to severe risks. Engineering controls such as ventilation systems, applying appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and risk management methods are the implementation cases to reduce exposure.

Graphical abstract

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40201-024-00924-y.

Neuroimmune regulation of the prefrontal cortex tetrapartite synapse

The prefrontal cortex (PFC) is an essential driver of cognitive, affective, and motivational behavior. There is clear evidence that the neuroimmune system directly influences PFC synapses, in addition to its role as the first line of defense against toxins and pathogens. In this review, we first describe the core structures that form the tetrapartite PFC synapse, focusing on the signaling microdomain created by astrocytic cradling of the synapse as well as the emerging role of the extracellular matrix in synaptic organization and plasticity. Neuroimmune signals (e.g. pro-inflammatory interleukin 1β) can impact the function of each core structure within the tetrapartite synapse, as well as promote intra-synaptic crosstalk, and we will provide an overview of recent advances in this field. Finally, evidence from post mortem human brain tissue and preclinical studies indicate that inflammation may be a key contributor to PFC dysfunction. Therefore, we conclude with a mechanistic discussion of neuroimmune-mediated maladaptive plasticity in neuropsychiatric disorders, with a focus on alcohol use disorder (AUD). Growing recognition of the neuroimmune system's role as a critical regulator of the PFC tetrapartite synapse provides strong support for targeting the neuroimmune system to develop new pharmacotherapeutics.

Modeling diabetic cardiomyopathy using human cardiac organoids: Effects of high glucose and lipid conditions

Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a complex metabolic disorder resulting from chronic hyperglycemia and lipid toxicity, which leads to cardiac dysfunction, fibrosis, inflammation, and mitochondrial impairment. Traditional two-dimensional (2D) cell cultures and animal models have limitations in replicating human cardiac physiology and pathophysiology. In this study, we successfully developed a three-dimensional (3D) model of DCM using cardiac organoids generated from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs). These organoids were treated with varying concentrations of glucose and sodium palmitate to mimic the high-glucose and high-lipid environment associated with diabetes. At lower concentrations, glucose and sodium palmitate enhanced cell viability, while higher concentrations induced significant cardiotoxic effects, including apoptosis, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction. The cardiac organoids also exhibited increased expression of cardiac injury markers, fibrosis-related genes, and inflammatory cytokines under high-glucose and high-lipid conditions. Treatment with metformin, a widely used antidiabetic drug, mitigated these adverse effects, indicating the model's potential for drug testing and evaluation. Our findings demonstrate that this human-derived 3D cardiac organoid model provides a more physiologically relevant platform for studying DCM and can effectively complement traditional models. This model holds promise for advancing the understanding of diabetic heart disease and for assessing the efficacy of potential therapeutic interventions.

Double-edged sword of L-arginine in diabetes: Exploring anti-inflammatory and antioxidant strategies

The article by Mansouri et al provides a comprehensive investigation into the effects of L-arginine (L-Arg) on diabetic cardiomyopathy. The authors conclude that while a low dose (0.5 g/kg) of L-Arg improves lipid profiles and reduces body weight, higher doses (≥ 1 g/kg) exacerbate oxidative stress, inflammation, and myocardial damage. In this letter, we aim to expand on the potential role of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant strategies in mitigating these adverse effects. Specifically, we focus on nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 activation and nitric oxide synthase modulation. These strategies could enhance the clinical utility of L-Arg by preserving its metabolic benefits while reducing its cardiotoxic risks. We believe this perspective will stimulate future research on L-Arg-based therapies in patients with diabetes, with an emphasis on optimizing dosage and exploring synergistic co-therapies.

Palmitic acid induces cardiomyocyte apoptosis by enhancing the KLF4/cMLCK signaling pathway

Hyperlipidemia and myocardial apoptosis caused by myocardial ischemia are the main causes of high mortality rates in cardiovascular diseases. Previous studies have indicated that Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) is involved in the induction of cardiac myocyte apoptosis under various stress conditions. In current study, we discovered that KLF4 also participates in palmitic acid (PA)-induced cardiac myocyte apoptosis. However, the specific mechanisms by which KLF4 regulates cardiac myocyte apoptosis remain unclear. Cardiac myosin light-chain kinase (cMLCK) is a crucial enzyme involved in regulating cardiac myocyte contraction and is closely associated with the regulation of apoptosis. Here, we employed the lipotoxicity in vitro and in vivo models to explore the potential synergistic role of KLF4 and cMLCK in cardiac myocyte apoptosis. Our findings demonstrate that under the influence of PA, upregulation of KLF4 expression accompanied by downregulation of cMLCK expression leads to cardiomyocyte apoptosis and cell proliferation inhibition. Selective knockdown and overexpression of KLF4 in cardiomyocytes further confirmed the involvement of KLF4 in PA-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis. Likewise, overexpression of cMLCK alleviated PA-induced cardiac myocyte apoptosis. Our study reveals the pro-apoptotic effect of KLF4 and elucidates the specific mechanism by which the KLF4/cMLCK signaling pathway is involved in PA-induced cardiac myocyte apoptosis, providing new therapeutic targets for cardiovascular disease treatment.

Rapid identification of horse oil adulteration based on deep learning infrared spectroscopy detection method

As a natural oil, horse oil has unique biological activity ingredients and therapeutic characteristics, which has important application value and market potential in healthcare, food, skin care and other fields. However, fraud is rampant in the horse oil market, and traditional methods such as chemical analysis and physical property detection are time-consuming, costly, and have low accuracy in detecting adulteration. Excessive adulteration may cause health risks, skin problems, and economic losses. Therefore, it is urgent to establish a rapid method for identifying adulteration in horse oil. Infrared spectroscopy exhibits substantial potential within detection applications, attributable to its fast analysis speed, non-destructive, and easy operation. This study collected four types of samples: horse oil, butter, sheep oil, and lard, and mixed them in different proportions (5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%). The infrared spectral data were enhanced by Gaussian white noise and preprocessed by Standard normal variable transformation and detrending (SNV-DT), and 591 × 3601 infrared spectral data were obtained for each adulteration ratio. In terms of model selection, by comparing CNN, RNN, Transformer, and ResNet, which are commonly used in foods, cosmetics and other fields, it is found that the fine-tuning ResNet can achieve the best results in identifying adulterated horse oil applications. For the first time, this study proposed a method for rapid detection of horse oil adulteration by combining infrared spectroscopy and deep learning, which reflected the significance of combining deep learning and infrared spectroscopy in the field of adulteration, and laid a foundation for qualitative detection in this field.

TFEB-dependent autophagy-lysosomal pathway is required for NRF2-driven antioxidative action in obstructive sleep apnea-induced neuronal injury

Nearly one billion individuals worldwide suffer from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and are potentially impacted by related neurodegeneration. TFEB is considered a master regulator of autophagy and lysosomal biogenesis, but little is known about its role in neuronal oxidative stress and resultant injury induced by OSA. This study aimed to investigate these issues. Here, we demonstrated that neuronal TFEB induction is repressed in OSA mouse models. Activation of a TFEB-dependent autophagy-lysosomal pathway (ALP) reduces hippocampal neuronal cell death and mitigates OSA-related cognitive impairment. Neuronal NRF2 induction was also found to be defective in OSA mouse models. A series of staining assays for HO1, SOD3, ROS, GSH, 8-OHdG, MDA and PI revealed that enhancement of NRF2 expression restores neuronal redox balance and protects hippocampal neurons. We then identified a novel interplay between TFEB-dependent ALP and NRF2-mediated relief of oxidative stress. Inhibition of NRF2 hinders TFEB expression and lysosomal biogenesis. Conversely, knockdown of TFEB or blocking autophagy dampens the antioxidative effect of NRF2. Our findings highlight the unexpected and crucial role of TFEB-dependent ALP as a downstream event of NRF2 in NRF2-promoted redox balance. This study provides novel insights into the mechanism behind NRF2-driven antioxidative action and the regulation of TFEB-dependent ALP.

Thermo-sensitive ε-polylysine-heparin-poloxamer hydrogel-encapsulated BMSCs promote endometrial regeneration

Endometrium plays a key role in embryo implantation and maintenance of pregnancy. However, to repair endometrial injury is still a challenge. In recent years, hydrogel materials have been widely used as effective support matrices to prevent intrauterine adhesions after endometrial injury. They can also be used as preparation scaffolds for encapsulating MSCs and certain therapeutic drugs. This study aimed to develop a preparation scaffold with high tissue affinity, high viscoelasticity and controlled release for repair of endometrial injury. The scaffold utilized heparin poloxamer (HP) as the matrix material and ε-polylysine (EPL) as the functional excipient to prepare a hydrogel that is suitable for endometrial adhesion and further encapsulate BMSCs. Furthermore, a strategy of the thermo-sensitive EPL-HP hydrogel-encapsulated BMSCs were used for better homing of BMSC after transplantation into the rat endometrial injury model, so as to exert the potential of endometrial regeneration by activating Nrf2 to regulate SDF-1/CXCR4 axis.

Sulforaphane alleviates renal fibrosis through dual regulation on mTOR-mediated autophagy pathway

Renal fibrosis is a common pathological process of progressive chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, effective therapy is constrained currently. Autophagy is an important mechanism in kidney injury and repairment but its exact role in renal fibrosis was discrepant according to previous studies. Sulforaphane (SFN), a natural plant compound, has been explored as a promising nutritional therapy for a variety of diseases. But the salutary effect and underlying mechanism of SFN on CKD have not been fully elucidated. In this study, we investigated the effect of SFN on renal fibrosis in unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) mice. Then we examined the regulatory effect of SFN on autophagy-related proteins in renal fibroblasts and renal tubular epithelial cells. Our results showed that sulforaphane could significantly alleviate renal fibrosis in UUO mice. In vitro, the expression levels of autophagy-related protein showed that SFN could upregulate the autophagy activity of renal interstitial fibroblasts and downregulate the autophagy activity of renal tubular epithelial cells. Furthermore, we found that phosphorylated mTOR protein levels was reduced in renal fibroblasts and increased in renal tubular epithelial cells after SFN treatment. Our results strongly suggested that SFN could alleviate renal fibrosis through dual regulation of mTOR-mediated autophagy pathway. This finding may provide a new perspective on the renal salutary effect of SFN and provide a preclinical rationale for exploring the therapeutic potential of SFN to slow down renal fibrosis.

Paternal alcohol exposure affected offspring mesenteric artery via ROS-Cacna1c and DNA hypomethylation

BACKGROUND

Paternal preconception alcohol exposure affects fetal development; however, it is largely unknown about the influences on offspring vasculature and mechanisms.

METHODS

Offspring born form paternal rats treated with alcohol or water before pregnant was raised until 3 months of age. Vessel tone of mesenteric arteries was detected using myograph system; whole-cell calcium channel current in smooth muscle cells was tested using patch-clamp; molecule expressions were detected with real-time PCR, western blotting, and Dihydroethidium (DHE); DNA methylations were determined using targeted bisulfate sequencing assay. Following 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine incubation, vessel tone in offspring mesenteric artery and Cacna1c expression in A7r5 was tested.

RESULTS

When comparing with the control, stress-strain curve was left-shifted in alcohol. There was lower incremental distensibility and endothelium-dependent dilation associated with endothelial nitric oxide synthase. Agonists-induced constrictions were greater in alcohol offspring than that in control, associated with higher expression of AT1R, Cacna1c, and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Baseline and Ang II-stimulated calcium channel currents were higher in alcohol group. Tempol and apocynin could restore Ang II-increased constriction and calcium channel current in alcohol offspring. When comparing with the control, there was lower DNA methylation of Cacna1c promotor in alcohol offspring mesenteric artery and in paternal sperm. 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine increased contraction in control offspring mesenteric artery and Cacna1c expression in A7r5.

CONCLUSION

Paternal preconception alcohol exposure-affected offspring mesenteric artery was via ROS-Cacna1c. Abnormal offspring vascular functions might be inherited via DNA hypomethylation of Cacna1c promotor from paternal sperm exposed to alcohol. These data gained provided important clues for cardiovascular disorders at germ cell origin.

Cardiomyocyte-specific deletion of STING improves cardiac function, glucose homeostasis, and wound healing in diabetic mice

AIMS

The present study aimed to investigate the effects and underling mechanisms of cardiomyocyte-specific STING knockout on cardiac function and wound healing in diabetes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study, type 2 diabetes was induced in cardiomyocyte-specific STING knockout mice using a combination of a high-fat diet and streptozotocin. Cardiac function and remodeling were assessed by echocardiography and histopathological analysis. Glucose homeostasis was evaluated through insulin sensitivity tests and intraperitoneal glucose tolerance tests. Wound healing was quantified by measuring the wound area in diabetic mice.

KEY FINDINGS

The results demonstrated that STING deletion in cardiomyocytes improved cardiac function in diabetic mice, which was accompanied by enhanced insulin sensitivity and improved glucose tolerance. Furthermore, the deletion of STING partially mitigated mitochondrial dysfunction in the myocardium. STING knockout in cardiomyocytes also facilitated angiogenesis and wound healing in diabetic mice.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our findings suggest that cardiomyocyte-specific STING deletion enhances cardiac function, glucose homeostasis, and wound healing, indicating that targeting STING in the heart may serve as a promising therapeutic strategy for managing diabetes mellitus.

IL-27 aggravates acute hepatic injury by promoting macrophage M1 polarization to induce Caspase-11 mediated Pyroptosis in vitro and in vivo

OBJECTIVES

Our aim was to explore the IL-27 effect in sepsis (SP)-related acute hepatic injury (AHI) as well as its possible mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Herein, we utilized both wild-type (WT) and IL-27 receptor (WSX-1)-deficient (IL-27R-/-) mice alongside RAW264.7 cells. Our study established an SP-associated AHI model through the intraperitoneal injections of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) + D-galactosamine (D-G). For examining the IL-27 impact on AHI, mice serum and liver tissue samples were gathered. Inflammatory factor levels in the liver and serum were detected using ELISA and immunohistochemistry. Immunofluorescence and Western blot techniques were employed for the detection of protein expression associated with polarization and pyroptosis in the liver, including iNOS, ARG-1, caspase-11, RAGE, and GSDMD. To further verify the IL-27 effects on macrophage polarization and pyroptosis and explore possible mechanisms involved, we used LPS-triggered RAW264.7 macrophages to assess AMPK/SIRT1 expression after IL-27 intervention. This study utilized Compound C (CC) to block the AMPK/SIRT1 pathway. The inflammatory response level and protein expression related to macrophage polarization and pyroptosis were measured again to reveal IL-27 implication in AHI and determine whether its role is associated with the AMPK/SIRT1 pathway.

RESULTS

The results revealed that IL-27 exacerbated systemic inflammation and liver damage in AHI mice by promoting M1 macrophage polarization, thereby increasing pro-inflammatory phenotype macrophages (M1). This further exacerbated the inflammatory response and pyroptosis in vivo and in vitro. Additionally, IL-27 down-regulated p-AMPK and SIRT1 protein expression while overexpressing macrophage inflammatory mediators including IL-1β/6 and TNFα. Furthermore, IL-27 promoted increased RAGE and caspase-11 protein expression, aggravating macrophage pyroptosis. Employing CC to block the AMPK pathway further aggravated M1 macrophage polarization and pyroptosis in vitro and in vivo, ultimately worsening liver injury.

CONCLUSIONS

Here, IL-27 aggravates AHI by promoting macrophage M1 polarization to induce caspase-11-mediated pyroptosis in vitro and in vivo, which may be linked to the AMPK/SIRT1 signaling pathway.

The trend of atherogenic indices in patients with type 2 diabetes after bariatric surgery: a national cohort study

BACKGROUND

Bariatric surgery has profound effects on weight loss, metabolic regulation, and gut hormone modulation, which make it an efficient tool for managing obesity and improving diabetes outcomes.

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study is to evaluate the atherogenic indices, including atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), atherogenic coefficient (AC), Castelli's risk index II (CRI-II), and lipoprotein combine index (LCI) in individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D) living with excess weight, who have undergone bariatric surgery.

SETTING

Three types of surgery including one-anastomosis gastric bypass/mini gastric bypass (OAGB/MGB), sleeve gastrectomy (SG), and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) were performed on patients with obesity and T2D in the period of August 2009 to February 2021 at the Surgical Department of Hazrat-e Rasool Hospital (University Hospital), Tehran, Iran.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort, 1246 individuals with obesity and T2D who underwent 3 types of bariatric surgery including RYGB, SG, and OAGB/MGB were studied for 2years after the surgery; the data were derived from the National Iranian Obesity Surgery Database. Afterward, the trend of biochemical parameters, total weight loss (TWL%), and atherogenesis-related indices were evaluated from baseline up to 2years in 5 follow-up visits.

RESULTS

A total of 1246 patients with T2D and obesity who underwent bariatric surgery were included in this study. The trend of all atherogenesis-related indices, including AIP, LCI, CRI-II, and AC, showed a significant reduction (49.2%, 53.4%, 20.8%, 22%, respectively) 2years after the bariatric surgery (P < .05). In the 6-month follow-up, 1-year follow-up, and 2-year follow-up, 1023 (83.10%), 719 (57.70%), and 341 (27.36%) individuals participated, respectively. In addition, a significant increase in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels was observed 2years after the surgery in both sexes (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

The bariatric surgery significantly reduced the levels of atherogenic indices including AIP, CRI-II, LCI, and AC.

Therapeutic Targeting of Decr1 Ameliorates Cardiomyopathy by Suppressing Mitochondrial Fatty Acid Oxidation in Diabetic Mice

BACKGROUND

A significant increase in mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation (FAO) is now increasingly recognized as one of the metabolic alterations in diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM). However, the molecular mechanisms underlying mitochondrial FAO impairment in DCM remain to be fully elucidated.

METHODS

A type 2 diabetes (T2D) mouse model was established by a combination of high-fat diet (HFD) and streptozotocin (STZ) injection. Neonatal rat cardiomyocytes were treated with high glucose (HG) and palmitic acid (HP) to simulate diabetic cardiac injury. Gain- and loss-of-function approaches and RNA sequencing were utilized to investigate the role and mechanism of 2,4-dienoyl-CoA reductase 1 (Decr1) in DCM.

RESULTS

By integrating the genomic data available in the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) with DCM rodents, we found that the transcriptional level of Decr1 was consistently upregulated in DCM (+255% for diabetic heart, p < 0.0001; +281% for diabetic cells, p < 0.0001). Cardiomyocytes-specific knockdown of Decr1 preserved cardiac function (+41% for EF, p < 0.0001; +24% for FS, p = 0.0052), inhibited cardiac hypertrophy (-34%, p < 0.0001), fibrosis (-69%, p < 0.0001), apoptosis (-56%, p < 0.0001) and oxidative damage (-59%, p < 0.0001) in DCM mice, while cardiomyocytes-specific overexpression of Decr1 aggravated DCM (-28% for EF, p = 0.0347; -17% for FS, p = 0.0014). Deletion of Decr1 prevented high glucose/palmitate (HG/HP)-induced hypertrophy (-22%, p = 0.0006), mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis (-74%, p < 0.0001) in cultured cardiomyocytes. Furthermore, RNA sequencing and functional analysis showed that Decr1 interacted with and upregulated pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4 (PDK4) in injured cardiomyocytes, and overexpression of PDK4 eliminated the benefits of Decr1 downregulation in DCM (-20% for EF, p = 0.0071; -28% for FS, p = 0.0022). Mechanistically, PDK4 acted as a kinase that induced phosphorylation and mitochondrial translocation of HDAC3. In the mitochondria, HDAC3 mediated the deacetylation of dehydrogenase trifunctional multienzyme complex α subunit (HADHA), contributing to excessive mitochondrial FAO and subsequent cardiac injury. From a screening of 256 natural products, we identified Atranorin and Kurarinone as potential inhibitors of Decr1, both demonstrating protective effects against DCM (Atranorin, +21% for EF, p = 0.0134; +24% for FS, p = 0.0006; Kurarinone, +20% for EF, p = 0.0183; +27% for FS, p = 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study delineates a molecular mechanism by which Decr1 potentiated higher mitochondrial lipid oxidation and cardiac damage by enhancing HADHA deacetylation through the PDK4/HDAC3 signalling pathway.

The effects of modest intake of soy milk enriched with Lactobacillus casei and omega-3 on the testis parameters in diabetic rats: a stereological study

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus is a widely distributed endocrine disorder in the world. Altered reproductive function is a notable long-term consequence of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). In the current study, we assessed the effects of soya milk containing Lactobacillus casei and omega-3 on stereology of testes in type 1 diabetic rats.

METHODS

30 male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly allocated into five groups. Streptozocin (STZ (60 mg/kg)) was applied for diabetes induction. The non-diabetic and diabetic control groups were fed with 1 ml of distilled water. Three treatment diabetic groups were fed 1 ml of Soy milk group (SM), Probiotic soy milk group (PSM), and Omega-3 probiotic soy milk group (OPSM) via intragastric gavage for 60 days. At the endpoint, the animals were sacrificed and serum luteinizing hormone (LH), Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), testosterone, MDA besides testicular, and seminal parameters were analyzed.

RESULTS

The administration of soy milk supplemented with L. casei and omega-3 in diabetic rats elevated the concentrations of LH, FSH, testosterone, and reduced malondialdehyde (MDA). In addition, this combination improved sperm quality, enhanced the number of sperm with rapid progress, increased testis weight and volume, seminiferous tubule and germinal epithelium volume; and also augmented the number of spermatogonia, spermatocyte, round and long spermatids, Sertoli cells and Leydig cells.

CONCLUSION

Supplementation with soy milk containing L. casei and omega-3 can inhibit T1DM-induced infertility rats through improving testicular parameters, enhancing sperm quality, and increasing Sertoli and Leydig cell number.

FGF1 alleviates polystyrene nanoplastics-induced neuroinflammation through the suppression of lipophagy

Global contamination with nanoplastics (NPs) has raised public concern regarding their adverse effects on human health. However, little is known about the toxic effects of NPs on the nervous system. This study explored the neurotoxicity of polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) under the exposure model in vitro and in vivo. The results showed that environmentally relevant PS-NPs exposure activated lipophagy-related lipolysis. This activation promoted the production of lipid inflammatory mediators 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), thereby driving neuroinflammation in vitro. RNA sequencing revealed that fibroblast growth factor (FGF1) was negatively associated with the activation of lipophagy. Exogenous treatment with FGF1 inhibited PS-NPs-induced neuroinflammation and lipid accumulation in vitro and in vivo via the suppression of lipophagy. In addition, exogenous treatment with FGF1 alleviated PS-NPs-induced learning and memory deficits and neuropathological injury in mice. Our results provided new insights into the neurotoxicity effects and mechanisms of PS-NPs. Meanwhile, we found that FGF1 is a potential neuroprotective factor against PS-NPs-induced neurological injury by remodeling lipid metabolism in the central nervous system.

The role of long non-coding RNAs in cardiovascular diseases: A comprehensive review

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, posing significant challenges to healthcare systems. Despite advances in medical interventions, the molecular mechanisms underlying CVDs are not yet fully understood. For decades, protein-coding genes have been the focus of CVD research. However, recent advances in genomics have highlighted the importance of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in cardiovascular health and disease. Changes in lncRNA expression specific to tissues may result from various internal or external factors, leading to tissue damage, organ dysfunction, and disease. In this review, we provide a comprehensive discussion of the regulatory mechanisms underlying lncRNAs and their roles in the pathogenesis and progression of CVDs, such as coronary heart disease, atherosclerosis, heart failure, arrhythmias, cardiomyopathies, and diabetic cardiomyopathy, to explore their potential as therapeutic targets and diagnostic biomarkers.

Prenatal exposure to heavy metals and childhood atopic disease

INTRODUCTION

Our objective was to determine the relationship between biomarkers of exposure to eleven heavy metals measured at birth and atopic disease in offspring up to 5.5 years.

METHODS

Heavy metals were measured in women of the ELFE cohort from: maternal urine (n = 804; arsenic [As], cadmium [Ca], cesium [Cs], chromium [Cr], cobalt [Co], nickel [Ni], antimony [Sb], tin [Sn] and vanadium [V]), hair (n = 1649; mercury [Hg]), and cord blood (n = 1525; lead [Pb]) collected at birth. Data on atopic diseases (eczema, food allergy, wheezing, asthma, and rhinitis) were collected from 2 months to 5.5 years. Five multimorbidity clusters were previously identified using latent class analysis: "asymptomatic", "early wheeze without asthma", "allergies without asthma", "asthma only", and "multimorbidity". Multinomial logistic regression was performed, using the asymptomatic cluster as the reference, to determine the relationship between heavy metal concentrations and atopic diseases.

RESULTS

Concentrations of Co were negatively associated with the multimorbidity cluster in the whole sample (OR 0.66 [95% CI 0.49, 0.89]). In boys, Cs was associated with lower odds of belonging to the early wheeze without asthma (0.71 [0.52, 0.97]) and multimorbidity clusters (0.54 [0.35, 0.82), while Sn was negatively associated with the multimorbidity cluster (0.66 [0.46, 0.96]). Results with binary outcomes supported findings from cluster analyses.

CONCLUSION

Exposure to some heavy metals assessed at delivery was inversely associated with the risk of atopic diseases, especially among boys. Further research should focus on heavy metal subtypes to distinguish between the more and less toxic forms.

Sulforaphane promotes diabetic wound healing by regulating macrophage efferocytosis and polarization

BACKGROUND

Delayed wound healing frequently occurs as a complication of diabetes. Diabetic wounds that are difficult to heal are associated with chronic, persistent inflammation, characterized by impaired efferocytosis and a sustained pro-inflammatory state of macrophages at the wound site. Sulforaphane (SFN), a bioactive compound found in cruciferous vegetables, possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. Numerous studies have shown that SFN can inhibit various inflammatory diseases such as atherosclerosis and psoriasis; however, its potential in treating diabetic wounds remains unknown.

PURPOSE

This study investigates the effects and potential mechanisms of SFN on diabetic wound healing.

METHODS

Network pharmacology approaches were employed to identify potential targets of SFN for diabetic wound treatment. Additionally, an STZ-induced diabetic mouse model (C57/B6) was used in in vivo studies to examine SFN's impact on diabetic wound healing. Simultaneously, immunofluorescence staining, immunohistochemical staining, Western blotting, and qPCR analysis were employed to detect phenotypes associated with macrophage efferocytosis and M2 polarization. Subsequently, the mechanism underlying SFN treatment was explored through in vitro experiments utilizing the THP-1 human monocyte cell line.

RESULTS

The results demonstrated that topical SFN application accelerated wound healing in diabetic mice, partly through the enhancement of impaired macrophage efferocytosis and the promotion of M2 macrophage polarization, thereby reducing the inflammatory response at the wound site. SFN promoted the phagocytosis of apoptotic Jurkat cells by THP-1 differentiated macrophages, reducing the resulting inflammatory response. Mechanistic studies revealed that SFN promotes macrophage efferocytosis by activating nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), leading to upregulation of heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) expression and subsequent enhancement of mer proto-oncogene tyrosine kinase (MERTK), a recognition receptor for efferocytosis. Furthermore, SFN enhanced macrophage polarization toward the M2 phenotype and reduced the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory response in vitro.

CONCLUSION

These data suggest that SFN could serve as an effective adjunct or novel therapeutic agent for treating chronic non-healing wounds in diabetes.

Elastographic evaluation for fatty liver disease in north Indian children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes

OBJECTIVES

The prevalence and predisposing factors to metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) in children with type 1 Diabetes (T1D) living in developing countries are unknown.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted in children with T1D. The presence of liver fat and tissue stiffness were assessed by ultrasonography and shear-wave elastography (SWE), respectively. The SWE values were correlated to body mass index (BMI), glycemic control, disease duration, and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT). Healthy non-obese children (n=36) were recruited as controls.

RESULTS

One hundred children with T1D were grouped (Group A-C) according to the disease duration (<5, 5-10, and >10 years, respectively). The mean diabetes duration and glycated hemoglobin were 5.9 ± 4.0 years and 8.2 ± 0.55 %, respectively. The mean SWE values were significantly higher in the patient groups compared to controls (5.07 ± 0.67, 5.27 ± 0.65, 5.16 ± 0.50, vs. 4.80 ± 0.82 kPa, p-value 0.006). The liver stiffness based on SWE showed a positive but weak relationship with BMI, diabetes duration, glycemic control, and GGT levels. A significantly higher number of children with T1D had MAFLD [9(20 %), 7(24.1 %), 7(26.9 %), vs. 1(3 %), p-value <0.001] based on ultrasonography.

CONCLUSIONS

Children with T1D showed higher liver stiffness values than controls. A weakly positive relationship of liver stiffness was observed with BMI, duration of diabetes, glycemic control, and serum GGT. Approximately one-fourth of children with diabetes showed sonographic evidence of hepatic steatosis. Larger studies are needed to ascertain the effects of obesity, diabetes duration, and metabolic control on the prevalence and progression of MAFLD in children with T1D.

Chromium Oral Bioavailability in 16 Contaminated Soils from Different Sources: Mouse Model Development and Cr Speciation in Soil and Mouse Tissues

Soil contamination by chromium (Cr) has attracted much public attention due to its ubiquity in the environment and toxicity to humans, with hexavalent CrVI being more toxic and mobile than trivalent CrIII. In this study, 16 soils contaminated from different sources were chosen to determine their Cr accumulation in mouse tissues and changes in Cr speciation in soils, and mouse intestinal contents, organs and excreta based on a steady-state mouse model. The Cr accumulation in mouse organs after exposing to CrVI was 1.6-2.6 fold greater than those exposing to CrIII. Further, Cr relative bioavailability (RBA) was measured using a mouse urinary excretion bioassay. Results show that Cr via oral digestion was mainly accumulated in the kidneys, with Cr-RBA in soils being 5.12-50.0%, averaging 15.6%. Besides soil properties, variation in Cr-RBA also depended on its contamination sources, with soils near electronic waste dismantling and tannery sites showing greater values. Further, instead of the CrVI contents in contaminated soils, Cr-RBA was closely related to the unreduced CrVI contents in mouse intestines, with 90.1% of CrVI being reduced before its absorption. This study helps to evaluate the health risks associated with Cr-contaminated soils by measuring Cr-RBA via a newly developed mouse model and its influence by Cr speciation. Our data suggest a potential risk associated with incidental exposure to Cr-contaminated soils via an oral pathway.

Cancer-associated mutations in autophagy-related proteins analyzed in yeast and human cells

Macroautophagy/autophagy is a conserved process among eukaryotes and is essential to maintain cell homeostasis; the dysregulation of autophagy has been linked with multiple human diseases, including cancer. However, not many studies have focused on the cancer-related mutations in ATG (autophagy related) proteins, which are likely to affect the protein function, influence autophagy activity and further contribute to the progression of the disease. In this study, we focused on the four ATG4 isoforms, which have a higher mutation frequency compared with the other core ATG proteins (i.e. those involved in autophagosome formation). We first studied the mutations in conserved residues and characterized one cancer-associated mutation that significantly impairs protein function and autophagy activity. Extending the study, we determined a region around the mutant residue to be essential for protein function, which had yet to be examined in previous studies. In addition, we created a yeast system expressing the human ATG4B protein to study mutations in the residues that are not conserved from human to yeast. Using this yeast model, we identified six cancer-associated mutations affecting autophagy. The effects of these mutations were further tested in mammalian cells using a quadruple ATG4 gene knockout cell line. Our study proves the principle of using human disease-associated mutations to study Atg proteins in yeast and generates a yeast tool that is helpful for a rapid screen of mutations to determine the autophagy phenotype, providing a new perspective in studying autophagy and its relation with cancer.Abbreviations: 4KO: ATG4 tetra knockout; ATG: autophagy related; BafA1: bafilomycin A1; GFP: green fluorescent protein; LC3-II: PE-conjugated form of LC3B; ORF: open reading frame; PE: phosphatidylethanolamine; RFP: red fluorescent protein; SEP: superecliptic pHluorin; Ubl: ubiquitin-like; UCEC: uterine corpus endometrial carcinoma.

Downregulation of HSPB1 and MGST1 Promotes Ferroptosis and Impacts Immune Infiltration in Diabetic Cardiomyopathy

Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a leading cause of death in diabetic patients. Current therapies do not adequately resolve this problem and focus only on the optimal level of blood glucose for patients. Ferroptosis plays an important role in diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular diseases. However, the role of ferroptosis in DCM remains unclear. Differentially expressed ferroptosis-related genes (DE-FRGs) were identified by intersection of the GSE26887 dataset and the Ferroptosis Database. The associations between the DE-FRGs and immune cells in DCM, estimated via the CIBERSORTx algorithm, were analysed. Flow cytometry (FCM) was used to evaluate the infiltration of immune cells in myocardial tissues. The expression of DE-FRGs, glutathione peroxidase 4 and solute carrier family 7 member 11 was examined via real-time quantitative PCR and Western blotting. Three DE-FRGs were identified: heat shock protein family B (small) member 1 (HSPB1), microsomal glutathione S-transferase 1 (MGST1) and solute carrier family 40 member 1 (SLC40A1), which are closely linked to immune cells in DCM. In vivo, the levels of CD8 + T cells, B cells and regulatory T (Treg) cells were significantly decreased in the DCM group, whereas the levels of CD4 + T cells, M1 cells, M2 cells and monocytes were increased. Diabetes significantly decreased HSPB1 and MGST1 levels and increased ferroptosis compared with the Normal group. Furthermore, the ferroptosis inhibitor ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1) alleviated high-fat diet (HFD)-induced cardiomyocyte injury and rescued ferroptosis. These findings suggest that the ferroptosis-related genes HSPB1 and MGST1 are closely related to immune cell infiltration and may be therapeutic targets for DCM.

CRISPRi-based screens in iAssembloids to elucidate neuron-glia interactions

The complexity of the human brain makes it challenging to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying brain function. Genome-wide association studies have uncovered variants associated with neurological phenotypes. Single-cell transcriptomics have provided descriptions of changes brain cells undergo during disease. However, these approaches do not establish molecular mechanism. To facilitate the scalable interrogation of causal molecular mechanisms in brain cell types, we developed a 3D co-culture system of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neurons and glia, termed iAssembloids. Using iAssembloids, we ask how glial and neuronal cells interact to control neuronal death and survival. Our CRISPRi-based screens identified that GSK3β inhibits the protective NRF2-mediated oxidative stress response elicited by high neuronal activity. We then investigate the role of APOE-ε4, a risk variant for Alzheimer's disease, on neuronal survival. We find that APOE-ε4-expressing astrocytes may promote neuronal hyperactivity as compared with APOE-ε3-expressing astrocytes. This platform allows for the unbiased identification of mechanisms of neuron-glia cell interactions.

TGF-β-induced acetylation of KLF5 drives TNFAIP2 transcription and EMT in nasopharyngeal carcinoma: Unveiling a novel regulatory mechanism

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is one of the critical mechanisms underlying migration, invasion, and metastasis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) cells. The transcription factor KLF5 plays a pivotal role in various cancers, however, its precise functions in NPC remain incompletely understood. This study aims to explore the detailed mechanisms by which TGF-β enhances TNFAIP2 transcription by acetylating KLF5, thereby inducing EMT in NPC. KLF5 was significantly overexpressed in NPC tissues and closely associated with adverse clinicopathological features of the patients. Further studies revealed that TGF-β markedly increased the expression of KLF5 and its acetylated form, Ac-KLF5, in NPC cells, with the acetylation status of KLF5 being crucial for its function. KLF5 induced EMT in NPC cells by directly binding to the TNFAIP2 promoter and promoting its transcription. The pro-migratory and pro-invasive effects of acetylated KLF5 on NPC cells depended on TNFAIP2. Additionally, in vivo experiments confirmed that TGF-β treatment induced tumors in NPC mouse models to exhibit apparent EMT characteristics. These results collectively support the central role of the TGF-β-KLF5-TNFAIP2 axis in EMT of NPC. This study elucidates the specific mechanisms by which TGF-β promotes TNFAIP2 transcription by acetylating KLF5, thereby inducing EMT in NPC. This discovery not only provides new insights into the pathogenesis of NPC but also identifies potential therapeutic targets for NPC treatment.

GPNMB disrupts SNARE complex assembly to maintain bacterial proliferation within macrophages

Xenophagy plays a crucial role in restraining the growth of intracellular bacteria in macrophages. However, the machinery governing autophagosome‒lysosome fusion during bacterial infection remains incompletely understood. Here, we utilize leprosy, an ideal model for exploring the interactions between host defense mechanisms and bacterial infection. We highlight the glycoprotein nonmetastatic melanoma protein B (GPNMB), which is highly expressed in macrophages from lepromatous leprosy (L-Lep) patients and interferes with xenophagy during bacterial infection. Upon infection, GPNMB interacts with autophagosomal-localized STX17, leading to a reduced N-glycosylation level at N296 of GPNMB. This modification promotes the degradation of SNAP29, thus preventing the assembly of the STX17-SNAP29-VAMP8 SNARE complex. Consequently, the fusion of autophagosomes with lysosomes is disrupted, resulting in inhibited cellular autophagic flux. In addition to Mycobacterium leprae, GPNMB deficiency impairs the proliferation of various intracellular bacteria in human macrophages, suggesting a universal role of GPNMB in intracellular bacterial infection. Furthermore, compared with their counterparts, Gpnmbfl/fl Lyz2-Cre mice presented decreased Mycobacterium marinum amplification. Overall, our study reveals a previously unrecognized role of GPNMB in host antibacterial defense and provides insights into its regulatory mechanism in SNARE complex assembly.

Nanoscale Resolution Imaging of Whole Mouse Embryos Using Expansion Microscopy

Nanoscale imaging of whole vertebrates is essential for the systematic understanding of human diseases, yet this goal has not yet been achieved. Expansion microscopy (ExM) is an attractive option for accomplishing this aim; however, the expansion of even mouse embryos at mid- and late-developmental stages, which have fewer calcified body parts than adult mice, is yet to be demonstrated due to the challenges of expanding calcified tissues. Here, we introduce a state-of-the-art ExM technique, termed whole-body ExM, that utilizes cyclic digestion. This technique allows for the super-resolution, volumetric imaging of anatomical structures, proteins, and endogenous fluorescent proteins (FPs) within embryonic and neonatal mice by expanding them 4-fold. The key feature of whole-body ExM is the alternating application of two enzyme compositions repeated multiple times. Through the simple repetition of this digestion process with an increasing number of cycles, mouse embryos of various stages up to E18.5, and even neonatal mice, which display a dramatic difference in the content of calcified tissues compared to embryos, are expanded without further laborious optimization. Furthermore, the whole-body ExM's ability to retain FP signals allows the visualization of various neuronal structures in transgenic mice. Whole-body ExM could facilitate studies of molecular changes in various vertebrates.

Autophagy regulates cellular senescence by mediating the degradation of CDKN1A/p21 and CDKN2A/p16 through SQSTM1/p62-mediated selective autophagy in myxomatous mitral valve degeneration

Myxomatous mitral valve degeneration (MMVD) is one of the most important age-dependent degenerative heart valve disorders in both humans and dogs. It is characterized by the aberrant remodeling of extracellular matrix (ECM), regulated by senescent myofibroblasts (aVICs) transitioning from quiescent valve interstitial cells (qVICs), primarily under TGFB1/TGF-β1 control. In the present study, we found senescent aVICs exhibited impaired macroautophagy/autophagy as evidenced by compromised autophagy flux and immature autophagosomes. MTOR-dependent autophagy induced by rapamycin and torin-1 attenuated cell senescence and decreased the expression of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors (CDKIs) CDKN2A/p16INK4A and CDKN1A/p21CIP1. Furthermore, induction of autophagy in aVICs by ATG (autophagy related) gene overexpression restored autophagy flux, with a concomitant reduction in CDKN1A and CDKN2A expression and senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). Conversely, autophagy deficiency induced CDKN1A and CDKN2A accumulation and SASP, whereas ATG re-expression alleviated senescent phenotypic transformation. Notably, CDKN1A and CDKN2A localized to autophagosomes and lysosomes following MTOR antagonism or MG132 treatment. SQSTM1/p62 was identified as the autophagy receptor to selectively sequester CDKN1A and CDKN2A cargoes for autophagic degradation. Our findings are the first demonstration that CDKN1A and CDKN2A are degraded through SQSTM1-mediated selective autophagy, independent of the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. These data will inform development of therapeutic strategies for the treatment of canine and human MMVD, and for the treatment of Alzheimer disease, Parkinson disease and other age-related degenerative disorders.Abbreviations: ACTA2/α-SMA: actin alpha 2, smooth muscle; AKT: AKT serine/threonine kinase; aVICs: activated valve interstitial cells; ATG: autophagy related; baf-A1: bafilomycin A1; BrdU, bromodeoxyuridine; BSA: bovine serum albumin; CDKIs, cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors; CDKN1A/p21: cyclin dependent kinase inhibitor 1A; CDKN2A/p16: cyclin dependent kinase inhibitor 2A; co-IP: co-immunoprecipitation; DMSO: dimethylsulfoxide; ECM, extracellular matrix; EIF4EBP1: eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E binding protein 1; eGFP: green fluorescent protein; ELISA: enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay; HEK-293T, human embryonic kidney 293T; HRP: horseradish peroxidase; KO: knockout; MAP1LC3/LC3: microtubule associated protein 1 light chain 3; LIR: MAP1LC3/LC3-interacting region; MFS: Marfan syndrome; MKI67/Ki-67: marker of proliferation Ki-67; MMVD: myxomatous mitral valve degeneration; MTOR: mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase; MTORC: MTOR complex; OE: overexpression; PBST, phosphate-buffered saline with 0.1% Tween-20; PCNA: proliferating cell nuclear antigen; PIK3CA/PI3K: phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase catalytic subunit alpha; PLA: proximity ligation assays; PSMA1: proteasome 20S subunit alpha 1; PSMB5: proteasome 20S subunit beta 5; qVICs: quiescent valve interstitial cells; qRT-PCR: quantitative real-time PCR; SA-GLB1/β-gal: SA-senescence-associated GLB1/β-galactosidase; ROS: reactive oxygen species; SASP: senescence-associated secretory phenotype; RPS6KB1/p70 S6K: ribosomal protein S6 kinase B1; SMAD: SMAD family member; SQSTM1/p62: sequestosome 1; STEM: scanning transmission electron microscopy; TGFB: transforming growth factor beta; TGFBR: transforming growth factor beta receptor; TP53/p53: tumor protein p53; UPS: ubiquitin-proteasome system; WT, wild-type.

Novel Dual-Emissive Up-conversion Fluorescent Probe for Imaging Ectopic Lipid Accumulation in Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a leading cause of death among diabetic patients, primarily due to ectopic lipid accumulation in nonadipose tissues. The lack of molecular tools for quantitatively visualizing this lipid accumulation has hindered in-depth studies. This study aims to develop a dual-emissive up-conversion fluorescent probe, DSDM, for precise in vivo and ex vivo analyses of lipid accumulation. DSDM exhibits up-conversion green emission and down-conversion near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence when excited at 561 nm. This allows for the simultaneous imaging of lipid droplets (LDs) and the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), the primary sites for lipid synthesis and storage. With intracellular lipid consumption and accumulation, the green emission in LDs decreased or increased, while the NIR fluorescence in the ER remained constant. Using the NIR emission as an internal control, the green-to-NIR emission intensity ratio can quantify the LD amount accurately, overcoming the possible interferences from inhomogeneous staining, variation in cell population, and other factors. With the probe, we quantitatively analyzed LD accumulation in human kidney cells with either overexpressed or silenced aquaporin 7 (AQP7), induced by palmitic acid. Herein, AQP7 is specifically expressed in kidney tubules and is the only channel that regulates adipose glycerol transport. In DKD mice with kidney-specific AQP7 knockout, the probe successfully detected up-regulated lipid accumulation and ER stress. Tissue imaging revealed that the inhibited close contact between LDs and ER might facilitate the assessment of lipid accumulation in DKD. This approach effectively addresses the limitations of precise tissue biopsy in DKD, thereby improving DKD management.

KLF5 enhances CXCL12 transcription in adipose-derived stem cells to promote endothelial progenitor cells neovascularization and accelerate diabetic wound healing

BACKGROUND

Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) have been shown to accelerate diabetic wound healing by promoting neovascularization, though the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. This study aims to explore whether ADSCs influence endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) function to enhance diabetic wound healing.

METHODS

Human adipose-derived stem cells (hADSCs) were isolated from patient adipose tissue and cultured under normal and high glucose (HG) conditions. RNA sequencing analyzed gene expression, while immunofluorescence validated findings in patient wound tissues. Mouse adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) from C57BL/6 mice were evaluated in vitro for their effects on EPCs under HG using EdU, Transwell, and tube formation assays. A diabetic mouse wound model was used to assess ADSCs therapeutic effects via digital imaging, histology, and immunofluorescence. Kruppel-like factor 5 (KLF5), identified via the JASPAR database, was confirmed by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. KLF5 and C-X-C motif chemokine 12 (CXCL12) expression levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), western blot, and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), and their relationship was validated through dual-luciferase assays.

RESULTS

We constructed a neovascularization-related signature (NRS) comprising 75 genes on the basis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) linked to neovascularization. GO and KEGG analyses revealed that the NRS is primarily involved in vasculature development and receptor-ligand activity. Seven hub genes (CD34, CXCL12, FGF7, FGF18, FGF1, TEK, KIT) were identified and validated. In a diabetic mouse model, CXCL12 knockdown in ADSCs reduced their ability of promoting wound healing and neovascularization. KLF5 expression was lower in patients with diabetic ulcers and diabetic mice wound tissues compared with normal tissues, while ADSCs treatment significantly increased KLF5 expression in diabetic mice wounds. Dual-luciferase reporter assays confirmed KLF5 as an upstream transcription factor of CXCL12. Additionally, knocking down KLF5 in ADSCs impaired their therapeutic effects on diabetic wound healing. In vitro, the addition of exogenous CXCL12 recombinant protein restored EPCs proliferation, migration, and vasculogenic capacity in a high glucose environment after KLF5 silencing in ADSCs.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings underscore the pivotal role of KLF5 in enhancing CXCL12 transcription within ADSCs, thereby facilitating EPC-mediated neovascularization and improving diabetic wound healing. Additionally, KLF5 emerges as a promising therapeutic target for accelerating tissue repair in diabetic wounds.

Remodeling of the cardiac striatin interactome and its dynamics in the diabetic heart

Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DbCM) is a silent and complex condition involving numerous signaling pathways that impair cardiomyocyte metabolism and cardiac performance. Striatin (STRN) is a multifaceted protein that binds metabolic proteins, yet its role in diabetic heart remains unexplored. Here we characterized the cardiac STRN interactome by performing immunoprecipitation on left ventricle (LV) proteins from control and diabetic hearts (rats treated with streptozotocin for 24 weeks) to dissect its derivative protein complex. Diabetic rats exhibited pathological heart remodeling characterized by increased heart weight/body weight ratio, elevated levels of Atrial Natriuretic Factor (ANF), and altered expression of alpha and beta-myosin heavy chain isoforms. Notably, STRN expression mirrored that of the remodeling marker ANF across all cardiac chambers. Proteomic analysis yielded 247 proteins interacting with STRN exclusively in diabetic LV, 94 in both control and diabetic LV, and 11 only in control LV. STRN retained a higher interaction with some STRN interacting phosphatase and kinase complex (STRIPAK) proteins (i.e. protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A), and sarcolemmal associated membrane protein (SLMAP)) in diabetic LV, indicating a preserved role of this signalosome in diabetic settings. Functional enrichment and gene ontology revealed that the STRN interactome in diabetic LV carried signalosomes related to cardiac contractility, endoplasmic reticulum stress, mitochondrial function, and apoptotic processes. Western blot experiments confirmed the interaction between STRN and SLMAP in both control and diabetic heart. These data suggest a pivotal role for the STRN signalosome in cardiometabolic disorders, potentially paving the way for novel therapeutic management of DbCM. Targeting the STRN interactome in DbCM, mainly the first-line interactors SLMAP, PP2A, and Cav-1 may offer hope for patients with diabetes-induced cardiac injuries.

The role of programmed cell death in diabetes mellitus-induced erectile dysfunction: from mechanisms to targeted therapy

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disease that often leads to vascular endothelial injury and peripheral neuropathy. Erectile dysfunction (ED), a common condition in andrology, is frequently associated with DM. The incidence of diabetes mellitus-induced ED (DMED) is second only to the cardiovascular complications of diabetes. Compared to other types of ED, DMED presents with more severe symptoms, rapid progression, and notable resistance to phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5is). Various forms of programmed cell death (PCD)-including apoptosis, autophagy, pyroptosis, and ferroptosis-play pivotal roles in the pathogenesis of DMED. An exacerbation of DMED is linked to critical irritants like advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the corpus cavernosum tissue. These irritants can spark anomalous activations of diverse PCDs, which damage primary corpus cavernosum cells like cavernous nerve cells, endothelial cells, and myocytes, leading to ED. Hence, we reviewed current knowledge on the mechanisms and therapeutic potential of targeting PCDs in DMED, aiming to advance strategies for enhancing erectile function.

Metabolic interventions as adjunctive therapies to insulin in type 1 diabetes: Current clinical landscape and perspectives

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is classically characterized as an autoimmune disease wherein the immune system erroneously attacks insulin-producing pancreatic β-cells, causing insulin insufficiency and severe metabolic dysregulation. However, intensive investigation and numerous clinical trials with immunotherapies have been largely unable to significantly alter the course of disease. Currently, there is no effective way to prevent or cure T1D, and insulin remains the cornerstone of T1D treatment. In recent years, a growing body of research suggests that β-cells actively contribute to the immune response and to disease development. Factors including glucotoxicity, lipotoxicity, inflammation, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and oxidative stress can induce β-cell apoptosis and senescence, further promoting insulitis. Recent studies highlight the importance of targeting metabolic control for T1D management and treatment. Metabolic interventions, through their direct and indirect impacts on β-cells, have shown promise in preserving β-cell function. These interventions can reduce glucose toxicity, alleviate oxidative stress and inflammation, enhance insulin sensitivity, and indirectly mitigate the autoimmune responses. By preserving β-cell function, individuals with T1D attain better glycaemic control, reduced complication risks and exhibit improved overall metabolic health. Here, we provide an overview of insights from clinical studies, systematic reviews and meta-analyses that collectively demonstrate that adjunctive metabolic interventions can enhance glycaemic control, reduce insulin requirements and mitigate adverse effects associated with insulin monotherapy. They also show potential for halting disease progression, preserving residual β-cell function and improving long-term outcomes for newly diagnosed individuals. Future research should focus on optimizing these treatment strategies and establishing their long-term efficacy and safety.

Dual targeting PPARα and NPC1L1 metabolic vulnerabilities blocks tumorigenesis

Dysregulated lipid metabolism is linked to tumor progression. In this study, we identified Niemann-Pick C1-like 1 (NPC1L1) as a downstream effector of PKM2. In breast cancer cells, PKM2 knockout (KO) enhanced NPC1L1 expression while downregulating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα) signaling pathway. PPARα and nuclear factor-E2 p45-related factor 1/2(Nrf1/2) are transcription factors regulating NPC1L1. In vitro PKM2 KO enhanced recruitment of Nrf1/2 to the NPC1L1 promoter region. Fenofibrate, a PPARα activator, promoted NPC1L1 expression; ezetimibe, an NPC1L1 inhibitor and effective Nrf2 activator, also elevated NPC1L1 expression. Combined administration of fenofibrate and ezetimibe significantly induced cytoplasmic vacuolation, and cell apoptosis. Mechanistically, this combined administration activated inositol required enzyme 1α(IRE1α) and produced the spliced form of X-box binding protein (XBP1s), which in turn enhanced lysine demethylase 6B (KDM6B) transcription. XBP1s interacts with KDM6B to activate genes involved in the unfolded protein response by demethylating di- and tri-methylated lysine 27 of histone H3 (H3K27), consequently increasing H3K27 acetylation levels in breast cancer cell lines. Fenofibrate and ezetimibe synergistically inhibited tumor growth in vivo. Our findings reveal that dual targeting of PPARα and NPC1L1 may represent a novel therapeutic regimen for breast cancer therapy.

Vascular actions of Ang 1-7 and Ang 1-8 through EDRFs and EDHFs in non-diabetes and diabetes mellitus

The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) plays a pivotal role in regulating vascular homeostasis, while angiotensin 1-8 (Ang 1-8) traditionally dominates as a vasoconstrictor factor. However, the discovery of angiotensin 1-7 (Ang 1-7) and Ang 1-8 has revealed counter-regulatory mechanisms mediated through endothelial-derived relaxing factors (EDRFs) and endothelial-derived hyperpolarizing factors (EDHFs). This review delves into the vascular actions of Ang 1-7 and Ang 1-8 in both non-diabetes mellitus (non-DM) and diabetes mellitus (DM) conditions, highlighting their effects on vascular endothelial cell (VECs) function as well. In a non-DM vasculature context, Ang 1-8 demonstrate dual effect including vasoconstriction and vasodilation, respectively. Additionally, Ang 1-7 induces vasodilation upon nitric oxide (NO) production as a prominent EDRFs in distinct mechanisms. Further research elucidating the precise mechanisms underlying the vascular actions of Ang 1-7 and Ang 1-8 in DM will facilitate the development of tailored therapeutic interventions aimed at preserving vascular health and preventing cardiovascular complications.

Multiple biological responses and transcriptome plasticity of the model unicellular eukaryote paramecium for cadmium toxicity aggravated by freshwater acidification

Cadmium (Cd) pollution is a widespread threat to aquatic life, and ongoing freshwater acidification (FA) can be expected to interact with Cd compounds to disrupt freshwater ecosystems. However, the effects of FA on Cd biotoxicity remain unclear. Herein, the model ciliate Paramecium tetraurelia, a model unicellular eukaryotic organism, was used to explore the response to environmental relevant concentrations of Cd under acidification conditions. We show for the first time that exposure to acidified freshwater accelerated Cd bioaccumulation and enhanced Cd bioavailability in P. tetraurelia, suggesting the synergistic interaction of Cd and FA. The co-exposure greatly reduced the abundance and carbon biomass, altered lysosomal membrane stability, induced oxidative stress, and consumed more ATP in exposed ciliates. Transcriptome plasticity enabled P. tetraurelia to develop a Cd stress-adaptive transcriptional profile (upregulation of transport and detoxification and downregulation of energy metabolism) under acidification. With a concomitant inhibition in energy production, the exposed ciliates might have diverted the energy from growth and cell replication to compensate for the energetic cost from stress response and detoxification. Collectively, acidified freshwater could aggravate Cd toxicity, which, in turn, arouses the response strategy of ciliates to cope with stress, providing a mechanistic understanding of the interaction between freshwater acidification and Cd pollution in the basic trophic level ciliated protozoa in freshwater ecosystems.

The Role of mTOR in the Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity: A Systematic Review

Doxorubicin (DOX) is a chemotherapy drug known to induce metabolic changes in the heart, leading to potential heart toxicity. These changes impact various cellular functions and pathways such as disrupting the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway. The study aimed to investigate the effect of DOX on the mTOR pathway through an in vivo systematic review. Databases were searched on September 11, 2023. We finally included 30 in vivo studies that examined the mTOR expression in cardiac tissue samples. The present study has shown that the PI3K/AKT/mTOR, the AMPK/mTOR, the p53/mTOR signaling, the mTOR/TFEB pathway, the p38 MAPK/mTOR, the sestrins/mTOR, and the KLF15/eNOS/mTORC1 signaling pathways play a crucial role in the development of DOX-induced cardiotoxicity. Inhibition or dysregulation of these pathways can lead to increased oxidative stress, apoptosis, and other adverse effects on the heart. Strategies that target and modulate the mTOR pathways, such as the use of mTOR inhibitors like rapamycin, have the potential to enhance the anticancer effects of DOX while also mitigating its cardiotoxic side effects.

β-eudesmol inhibits cell growth and enhances cell chemosensitivity of NPC through targeting FGF1/FGFR signaling

BACKGROUND

Chemoresistance is one ofthe main challenges for advanced NPCtreatment.We previouslyproved LHX2 transcriptionally regulates FGF1 and promotes cancer progression through activating FGF1/FGFR axis,which prompted us toexplore the potential inhibitors for FGFR to improve the therapy response.

METHODS

RT-qPCR, immunohistochemistry, western blot assayand immunofluorescencewere applied to verify the gene expression levels. Xenograftmodel as well as lung metastasis model was performed forin vitroassays. Flow cytometry and Tunel stainingwere used to determine the apoptosis of NPC cells.The interaction between β-eudesmol and FGFR1/2 was analyzed by Autodock software.

RESULTS

β-eudesmol inhibited the growth and metastasisof NPCin vivoandin vitro.In addition,β-eudesmol treatment promoted NPC apoptosis and sensitized NPC to cisplatin. β-eudesmol putatively bound to FGFR and blocked the Akt signaling, STAT3 signalingandERKsignaling,which in turn restrainedABCC1 transcription.

CONCLUSION

β-eudesmol suppressed cell growth, metastasis and chemoresistance in NPC through targetingFGF1/FGFR signaling, thereby blocking the Akt signaling, STAT3 signaling andERKsignaling, as well as down-regulating ABCC1 expression. Our findings provided a novel potential drug for NPC treatment.

Concentric remodeling and the metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease in patients with type 1 diabetes: an exploratory study

INTRODUCTION

Diabetic cardiomyopathy in young patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) usually presents as asymptomatic diastolic heart dysfunction with left ventricle (LV) remodeling. Its prevalence seems to be underestimated. One of the factors seemingly influencing LV remodeling is a metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), which was extensively investigated in patients with type 2 diabetes but not with T1D. This study aimed to describe the correlation between MASLD risk and relative wall thickness (RWT) in young patients with T1D without heart failure symptoms or treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Study participants were recruited at the inpatient diabetology department, in admission order. Patients underwent a set of laboratory tests and echocardiographic examinations. The risk of MASLD was estimated using fatty liver index (FLI). Acquired data was then statistically analyzed.

RESULTS

The study group consisted of 55 patients. 25 participants had RWT > 0.42, suggesting LV remodeling. Study participants did not differ in HbA1c, NT-proBNP, HDL, LDL, non-HDL, and uric acid concentrations. However, patients with RWT > 0.42 had higher FLI (40.97 vs. 13.82, p < 0.01) and BMI (27.3 vs. 22.5, p < 0.01) and differed in transaminase concentrations. Moreover, patients with RWT > 0.42 had significantly higher LV mass index (85.6 vs. 68.2 g/m2) and altered mitral ring velocities. In univariable logistic regression, FLI correlated with LV remodeling risk (OR 1.028, p = 0.05). The optimal cutoff point for FLI predicting the RWT > 0.42 was 26.38 (OR 10.6, p = 0.04, sensitivity 0.857, specificity 0.657).

CONCLUSIONS

FLI correlates with RWT in patients with T1D independently of diabetes metabolic control and hypothetically may support recognizing T1D patients with a higher risk of LV remodeling.

Angiogenic and neurogenic potential of dental-derived stem cells for functional pulp regeneration: A narrative review

BACKGROUND

Dental pulp tissue engineering is expected to become an ideal treatment for irreversible pulpitis and apical periodontitis. However, angiogenesis and neurogenesis for functional pulp regeneration have not yet met the standard for large-scale clinical application, and need further research.

OBJECTIVE

This review focused on the potential mechanisms of angiogenesis and neurogenesis in pulp regeneration, including stem cell types, upstream and downstream regulatory molecules and cascade signalling pathways, thereby providing a theoretical basis and inspiring new ideas to improve the effectiveness of dental pulp tissue engineering.

METHODS

An electronic literature search was carried out using the keywords of 'pulp regeneration', 'stem cell transplantation', 'dental pulp stem cells', 'angiogenesis' and 'neurogenesis'. The resulting literature was screened and reviewed.

RESULTS

Stem cells used in dental pulp tissue engineering can be classified as dental-derived and non-dental-derived stem cells, amongst which dental pulp stem cells (DPSC) have achieved promising results in animal experiments and clinical trials. Multiple molecules and signalling pathways are involved in the process of DPSC-mediated angiogenic and neurogenetic regeneration. In order to promote angiogenesis and neurogenesis in pulp regeneration, feasible measures include the addition of growth factors, the modulation of transcription factors and signalling pathways, the use of extracellular vesicles and the modification of bioscaffold materials.

CONCLUSION

Dental pulp tissue engineering has had breakthroughs in preclinical and clinical studies in vivo. Overcoming difficulties in pulpal angiogenesis and neurogenesis, and achieving functional pulp regeneration will lead to a significant impact in endodontics.

Heritable dysregulation of DNA methylation may underlie the diabetogenic effects of paternal preconception exposure to inorganic arsenic in C57BL/6J mice

Chronic exposure to inorganic arsenic (iAs) has been linked with the development of diabetes mellitus (DM). We recently showed that parental exposure to iAs (200 ppb) prior to mating was associated with diabetic phenotypes in offspring and altered gene expression in parents and offspring. The goal of the present study was to determine if DNA methylation underlies the differential gene expression in the livers of offspring. DNA methylation was assessed in paternal (G0) sperm and livers of their offspring (G1) using a genome wide DNA methylation array. We found that iAs exposure significantly altered CpG methylation (p < 0.05) in 54.3 %, 49.4 %, and 63.7 % of the differentially expressed genes in G0 sperm, G1 female livers, and G1 male livers, respectively. Importantly, a subset of differentially methylated CpG sites were shared across generations. Sensitivity analyses (FDR < 0.1) of imprinted and DM-associated genes revealed differential methylation of 74 imprinted genes and 100 DM-associated genes in the livers of G1 males. These male-specific results are intriguing given the prior findings of diabetic phenotypes found exclusively in male offspring from parents exposed to iAs. In summary, these data demonstrate that heritable changes in DNA methylation through the paternal germline may underlie the diabetogenic effects of preconception iAs exposure.

miR-874-3p Alleviates Macrophage-Mediated Inflammatory Injury in Intracerebral Hemorrhage by Targeting HIPK2

Macrophages mediate secondary inflammatory injury after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). This study aimed to investigate the role and molecular mechanisms of miR-874-3p in macrophage polarization. A mice model of ICH was constructed by autologous blood injection. Macrophages were treated with erythrocyte lysates to construct an ICH cell model. Real-time quantitative reverse transcription PCR (RT-qPCR) was used to detect miR-874-3p levels. Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) was used to detect macrophage polarization markers. Brain tissue water content and neurological deficit scores were used to assess the degree of inflammatory injury in ICH mice. RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) and Dual-luciferase reporter (DLR) assays were used to analyze the targeting relationship between miR-874-3p and target mRNA. miR-874-3p levels were decreased in ICH mice and erythrocyte lysates-treated macrophages. miR-874-3p mimic alleviated inflammatory injury, decreased the levels of M1 macrophage markers, and increased the levels of M2 macrophage markers, suggesting that miR-874-3p is involved in ICH by regulating macrophage polarization. HIPK2 is the target mRNA of miR-874-3p and has the opposite expression pattern of miR-874-3p. Overexpression of HIPK2 attenuates the effect of elevated miR-874-3p levels on macrophage polarization and inflammatory brain injury in ICH mice. miR-874-3p regulates macrophage polarization in ICH by targeting HIPK2. Therefore, the miR-874-3p/HIPK2 axis may be a promising target for ICH treatment.

Current application of tissue-engineered dermal scaffolds mimicking the extracellular matrix microenvironment in wound healing

With the continuous advancement of materials science, cell biology, and biotechnology, tissue engineering has introduced novel solutions to traditional wound healing approaches, particularly demonstrating significant potential in addressing complex or non-healing wounds. One of the key technologies in this field, dermal scaffolds, serve as wound coverage materials that mimic the structural framework of the dermis. They primarily assume the function of extracellular matrix, providing space for cell attachment, migration, and proliferation, thus supporting cellular growth and regulating multiple biological processes in healing. Tissue engineering utilizes combinations of natural or synthetic scaffolds, seeded cells, or growth factors to induce distinct effects in angiogenesis, extracellular matrix deposition, and functional recovery. Therefore, various bioengineered dermal scaffolds hold significant potential for clinical translation in wound healing. This review outlines various extracellular matrix molecules utilized in the development of dermal scaffolds, emphasizes recent progress in cell- and growth factor-modified scaffolds, and discusses the challenges and future perspectives in this evolving field.

Cytokines in age-related eye diseases: pathogenesis and potential targets for innovative therapies

Age-related eye diseases (AREDs), such as dry eye disease (DED), age-related macular degeneration (AMD), glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy (DR), are significant worldwide health concerns due to their rising prevalence and debilitating effects. Despite substantial research on the pathobiology of AREDs, the impact of immune-related alterations caused by aging is still not well understood. Tissue-resident cells and invading immune cells in the eye control innate responses in the event of damage or infection. However, as cells age, they gradually lose their ability to perform their protective duties and develop abnormal characteristics. Therefore, the disrupted regulation of immune responses in the eyes of older individuals enhances their vulnerability to and the intensity of eye disorders. Cytokines, immune system components, have a role in developing AREDs by contributing to inflammation. This paper examines the deficiencies in the pathogenic and therapeutic aspects of pro-inflammatory cytokines in AREDs that require further investigation in future studies.