Synergistic effects of curcumin and stem cells on spinal cord injury: a comprehensive review

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is damage to the spinal cord that permanently or temporarily disrupts its function, causing considerable autonomic, sensory, and motor disorders, and involves between 10 and 83 cases per million yearly. Traumatic SCI happens following primary acute mechanical damage, leading to injury to the spinal cord tissue and worsening clinical outcomes. The present therapeutic strategies for this complex disease fundamentally rely on surgical approaches and conservative remedies. However, these modalities are not effective enough for neurological recovery. Therefore, it is necessary to discover more efficient methods to treat patients with SCI. Today, considerable attention has been drawn to bioactive compounds-based remedies and stem cell therapy for curing various ailments and disorders, such as neurological diseases. Some researchers have recommended that harnessing curcumin, a polyphenol obtained from turmeric, in combination with stem cells, like mesenchymal stem cells, neural stem cells, and ependymal stem cells, can remarkably improve neurological recovery-related parameters more effective than the treatment with these two methods separately in experimental models. Hereby, this literature review delves into the functionality of curcumin combined with stem cells in treating SCI with a focus on cellular and molecular mechanisms.

Emerging strategies for nerve repair and regeneration in ischemic stroke: neural stem cell therapy

Ischemic stroke is a major cause of mortality and disability worldwide, with limited treatment options available in clinical practice. The emergence of stem cell therapy has provided new hope to the field of stroke treatment via the restoration of brain neuron function. Exogenous neural stem cells are beneficial not only in cell replacement but also through the bystander effect. Neural stem cells regulate multiple physiological responses, including nerve repair, endogenous regeneration, immune function, and blood-brain barrier permeability, through the secretion of bioactive substances, including extracellular vesicles/exosomes. However, due to the complex microenvironment of ischemic cerebrovascular events and the low survival rate of neural stem cells following transplantation, limitations in the treatment effect remain unresolved. In this paper, we provide a detailed summary of the potential mechanisms of neural stem cell therapy for the treatment of ischemic stroke, review current neural stem cell therapeutic strategies and clinical trial results, and summarize the latest advancements in neural stem cell engineering to improve the survival rate of neural stem cells. We hope that this review could help provide insight into the therapeutic potential of neural stem cells and guide future scientific endeavors on neural stem cells.

Current concepts in the epigenetic regulation of cardiac fibrosis

Cardiac fibrosis is a significant driver of congestive heart failure, a syndrome that continues to affect a growing patient population globally. Cardiac fibrosis results from a constellation of complex processes at the transcription, receptor, and signaling axes levels. Various mediators and signaling cascades, such as the transformation growth factor-beta pathway, have been implicated in the pathophysiology of cardiac tissue fibrosis. Our understanding of these markers and pathways has improved in recent years as more advanced technologies and assays have been developed, allowing for better delineation of the crosstalk between specific factors. There is mounting evidence suggesting that epigenetic modulation plays a pivotal role in the progression of cardiac fibrosis. Transcriptional regulation of key pro- and antifibrotic pathways can accentuate or blunt the rate and extent of fibrosis at the tissue level. Exosomes, micro-RNAs, and long noncoding RNAs all belong to factors that can impact the epigenetic signature in cardiac fibrosis. Herein, we comprehensively review the latest literature about exosomes, their contents, and cardiac fibrosis. In doing so, we highlight the specific transcriptional factors with pro- or antifibrotic properties. We also assimilate the data supporting these mediators' potential utility as diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers. Finally, we offer insight into where further work can be done to fill existing gaps to translate preclinical findings better and improve clinical outcomes.

Multidisciplinary approaches to study anaemia with special mention on aplastic anaemia (Review)

Anaemia is a common health problem worldwide that disproportionately affects vulnerable groups, such as children and expectant mothers. It has a variety of underlying causes, some of which are genetic. A comprehensive strategy combining physical examination, laboratory testing (for example, a complete blood count), and molecular tools for accurate identification is required for diagnosis. With nearly 400 varieties of anaemia, accurate diagnosis remains a challenging task. Red blood cell abnormalities are largely caused by genetic factors, which means that a thorough understanding requires interpretation at the molecular level. As a result, precision medicine has become a key paradigm, utilising artificial intelligence (AI) techniques, such as deep learning and machine learning, to improve prognostic evaluation, treatment prediction, and diagnostic accuracy. Furthermore, exploring the immunomodulatory role of vitamin D along with biomarker‑based molecular techniques offers promising avenues for insight into anaemia's pathophysiology. The intricacy of aplastic anaemia makes it particularly noteworthy as a topic deserving of concentrated molecular research. Given the complexity of anaemia, an integrated strategy integrating clinical, laboratory, molecular, and AI techniques shows a great deal of promise. Such an approach holds promise for enhancing global anaemia management options in addition to advancing our understanding of the illness.

ALDH and cancer stem cells: Pathways, challenges, and future directions in targeted therapy

Human ALDH comprise 19 subfamilies in which ALDH1A1, ALDH1A3, ALDH3A1, ALDH5A1, ALDH7A1, and ALDH18A1 are implicated in CSC. Studies have shown that ALDH can also be involved in drug resistance and standard chemotherapy regimens are ineffective in treating patients at the stage of disease recurrence. Existing chemotherapeutic drugs eliminate the bulk of tumors but are usually not effective against CSC which express ALDH+ population. Henceforth, targeting ALDH is convincing to treat the patient's post-relapse. Combination therapies that interlink signaling mechanisms seem promising to increase the overall disease-free survival rate. Therefore, targeting ALDH through ALDH inhibitors along with immunotherapies may create a novel platform for translational research. This review aims to fill in the gap between ALDH1 family members in relation to its cell signaling mechanisms, highlighting their potential as molecular targets to sensitize recurrent tumors and bring forward the future development concerning the current progress and draw backs. This review summarizes the role of cancer stem cells and their upregulation by maintaining the tumor microenvironment in which ALDH is specifically highlighted. It discusses the regulation of ALDH family proteins and the crosstalk between ALDH and CSC in relation to cancer metabolism. Furthermore, it establishes the correlation between ALDH involved signaling mechanisms and their specific targeted inhibitors, as well as their functional modularity, bioavailability, and mechanistic role in various cancers.

Boric Acid Affects the Expression of DNA Double-Strand Break Repair Factors in A549 Cells and A549 Cancer Stem Cells: An In Vitro Study

DNA double-strand break (DSB) repair genes interact with tumor stemness- and resistance-associated processes in cancer stem cells (CSCs). Therefore, targeting DNA DSB genes in cancer treatment is important for the CSC phenotype. Although the anti-cancer effect of boric acid (BA) has been studied, its effect on DNA DSB is unclear. Moreover, no studies investigate BA's effects on DNA DSB of lung cancer stem cells (LC-SCs). To fill the gap, we aimed to assess the effects of BA on A549 cancer stem cells. CSCs were isolated from human non-small cell lung cancer cells (A549) and characterized by flow cytometry. Different concentrations of BA (at doses ranging from 1 to 100 mM) were applied to cancer stem cells. Cytotoxic activities were determined using the cell viability assay (MTT assay) at 24 and 48 h. Expression levels of DNA DSB genes that BRCA1, BRCA2, RAD51, KU70/80, ATM, and XRCC4 were evaluated by RT-qPCR. Additionally, immunofluorescence staining analysis was exploited for caspase-3 and E-cadherin. ATM expression increased significantly (p < 0.001). No significant change was observed in the expression of other genes. Moreover, BA up-regulated caspase-3 and E-cadherin expression. Consequently, we can say that BA affects DNA DSB and the apoptotic abilities of LC-SCs.

Human Breast Milk Enhances Cellular Proliferation in Cornea Wound Healing

PURPOSE

Corneal epithelial defects from trauma or surgery heal as new epithelial cells grow centripetally from the limbus and replenish the epithelium. Corneal wound healing requires cell signalling molecules. However, a topical treatment with these components is not available. Human breast milk (HBM) offers a potential, novel treatment as it contains bioactive molecules important in epithelial cell healing. This study seeks to investigate the potential of HBM in cornea wound healing.

METHODS

Balb/c mice, 8-12 weeks old, were anesthetized prior to creating a 2 mm central cornea epithelial defect. Mice were randomly assigned to a treatment group: HBM, ophthalmic ointment containing neomycin, polymyxin B, dexamethasone (RxTx), or saline and treated 4x/day for 2 days. Wound area was quantified by fluorescein and ImageJ at 0, 8, 24, and 48 h post wounding and eyes used for histology, RT-qPCR, and ELISA.

RESULTS

Wounded corneas treated with HBM demonstrated increased re-epithelialization at 8 h post injury compared to saline treatments. ELISA showed significantly higher Ki67 in HBM treated eyes vs. saline control at 8 h (p = 0.0278). Additionally, immunohistology revealed more Ki67 positive cells in the HBM group compared to saline at 8 h and 24 h (p = 0.0063 8 h; p = 0.0007 24 h). For inflammatory analysis, HBM group IL-1β levels were similar to the saline group, and higher than RxTx treated eyes (p < 0.05). Immunohistochemical staining for CD11b (macrophage marker) revealed HBM-treated eyes had significantly more positive cells vs. saline. RT-qPCR of limbal stem cell markers (LESCs) revealed upregulation of Integrin αV at 8 h with HBM vs. saline.

CONCLUSIONS

HBM treatment on corneas with debridement of epithelium demonstrated improved healing, cellular proliferation, and upregulation of the LESC gene transcript, integrin αV, after wounding. Future studies could investigate LESC response to different signalling molecules in HBM to better understand the efficacy of this potential therapy.

Comprehensive phenotypic assessment of nonsense mutations in mitochondrial ND5 in mice

Mitochondrial dysfunction induced by mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations has been implicated in various human diseases. A comprehensive analysis of mitochondrial genetic disorders requires suitable animal models for human disease studies. While gene knockout via premature stop codons is a powerful method for investigating the unique functions of target genes, achieving knockout of mtDNA has been rare. Here, we report the genotypes and phenotypes of heteroplasmic MT-ND5 gene-knockout mice. These mutant mice presented damaged mitochondrial cristae in the cerebral cortex, hippocampal atrophy, and asymmetry, leading to learning and memory abnormalities. Moreover, mutant mice are susceptible to obesity and thermogenetic disorders. We propose that these mtDNA gene-knockdown mice could serve as valuable animal models for studying the MT-ND5 gene and developing therapies for human mitochondrial disorders in the future.

Candidate stem cell isolation and transplantation in Hexacorallia

Stem cells are the foundation for cell therapy due to their ability to self-renew, differentiate into other cell types, and persist throughout the life of an organism. Stem cell isolation and transplantation have not yet been established in Hexacorallia, a cnidarian subclass containing stony corals and sea anemones. Here, we demonstrate that candidate stem cells in the hexacorallian Nematostella vectensis can be transplanted into adult animals. These cells exhibited the hallmarks of stem cell functional properties; they integrated into recipients' tissues and rescued them from lethal doses of chemotherapy. Additionally, these cells proliferated and survived serial transplantations. Notably, we showed that this cellular subpopulation can be enriched by sorting using species-non-specific cell markers and that similar subpopulations of cells can be isolated from other hexacorallians, including stony corals. This research establishes the basis for studying stem cell biology on a functional level in Hexacorallia.

Role of mesenchymal stem cells in sepsis and their therapeutic potential in sepsis‑associated myopathy (Review)

Sepsis‑induced myopathy (SIM) is one of the leading causes of death in critically ill patients. SIM mainly involves the respiratory and skeletal muscles of patients, resulting in an increased risk of lung infection, aggravated respiratory failure, and prolonged mechanical ventilation and hospital stay. SIM is also an independent risk factor associated with increased mortality in critically ill patients. At present, no effective treatment for SIM has yet been established. However, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have emerged as a promising therapeutic approach and have been utilized in the treatment of various clinical conditions. A significant body of basic and clinical research supports the efficacy of MSCs in managing sepsis and muscle‑related diseases. This literature review aims to explore the relationship between MSCs and sepsis, as well as their impact on skeletal muscle‑associated diseases. Additionally, the present review discusses the potential mechanisms and therapeutic benefits of MSCs in the context of SIM.

Synthetic and natural polymer hydrogels: A review of 3D spheroids and drug delivery

This review centers on the synthesis and characterization of both natural and synthetic hydrogels, highlighting their diverse applications across various fields. We will delve into the evolution of hydrogels, focusing on the importance of polysaccharide-based and synthetic variants, which have been particularly chosen for 3D spheroid development in cancer research and drug delivery. A detailed background on the research and specific methodologies, including the in-situ free radical polymerization used for synthesizing these hydrogels, will be extensively discussed. Additionally, the review will explore various applications of these hydrogels, such as their self-healing properties, swelling ratios, pH responsiveness, and cell viability. A comprehensive literature review will support this investigation. Ultimately, this review aims to clearly outline the objectives and significance of hydrogel synthesis and their applications.

Epigenetic Mechanisms of Aluminum-Induced Neurotoxicity and Alzheimer's Disease: A Focus on Non-Coding RNAs

Aluminum (Al) is known to induce neurotoxic effects, potentially contributing to Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis. Recent studies suggest that epigenetic modification may contribute to Al neurotoxicity, although the mechanisms are still debatable. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to summarize existing data on the involvement of epigenetic mechanisms in Al-induced neurotoxicity, especially AD-type pathology. Existing data demonstrate that Al exposure induces disruption in DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNA expression in brains. Alterations in DNA methylation following Al exposure were shown to be mediated by changes in expression and activity of DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) and ten-eleven translocation proteins (TETs). Al exposure was shown to reduce histone acetylation by up-regulating expression of histone deacetylases (HDACs) and impair histone methylation, ultimately contributing to down-regulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression and activation of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) signaling. Neurotoxic effects of Al exposure were also associated with aberrant expression of non-coding RNAs, especially microRNAs (miR). Al-induced patterns of miR expression were involved in development of AD-type pathology by increasing amyloid β (Aβ) production through up-regulation of Aβ precursor protein (APP) and β secretase (BACE1) expression (down-regulation of miR-29a/b, miR-101, miR-124, and Let-7c expression), increasing in neuroinflammation through NF-κB signaling (up-regulation of miR-9, miR-125b, miR-128, and 146a), as well as modulating other signaling pathways. Furthermore, reduced global DNA methylation, altered histone modification, and aberrant miRNA expression were associated with cognitive decline in Al-exposed subjects. However, further studies are required to evaluate the contribution of epigenetic mechanisms to Al-induced neurotoxicity and/or AD development.

Sequencing-based study of neural induction of human dental pulp stem cells

Techniques for triggering neural differentiation of embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells into neural stem cells and neurons have been established. However, neural induction of mesenchymal stem cells, including dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs), has been assessed primarily based on neural-related gene regulation, and detailed studies into the characteristics and differentiation status of cells are lacking. Therefore, this study was aimed at evaluating the cellular components and differentiation pathways of neural lineage cells obtained via neural induction of human DPSCs. Human DPSCs were induced to neural cells in monolayer culture and examined for gene expression and mechanisms underlying differentiation using microarray-based ingenuity pathway analysis. In addition, the neural lineage cells were subjected to single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) to classify cell populations based on gene expression profiles and to elucidate their differentiation pathways. Ingenuity pathway analysis revealed that genes exhibiting marked overexpression, post-neuronal induction, such as FABP7 and ZIC1, were associated with neurogenesis. Furthermore, in canonical pathway analysis, axon guidance signals demonstrated maximum activation. The scRNA-seq and cell type annotations revealed the presence of neural progenitor cells, astrocytes, neurons, and a small number of non-neural lineage cells. Moreover, trajectory and pseudotime analyses demonstrated that the neural progenitor cells initially engendered neurons, which subsequently differentiated into astrocytes. This result indicates that the aforementioned neural induction strategy generated neural stem/progenitor cells from DPSCs, which might differentiate and proliferate to constitute neural lineage cells. Therefore, neural induction of DPSCs may present an alternative approach to pluripotent stem cell-based therapeutic interventions for nervous system disorders.

Engineered Tendon-Fibrocartilage-Bone Composite With Mechanical Stimulation for Augmentation of Rotator Cuff Repair: A Study Using an In Vivo Canine Model With a 6-Month Follow-up

BACKGROUND

Rotator cuff repair augmentation using biological materials has become popular in clinical practice to reduce the high retear rates associated with traditional repair techniques. Tissue engineering approaches, such as engineered tendon-fibrocartilage-bone composite (TFBC), have shown promise in enhancing the biological healing of rotator cuff tears in animals. However, previous studies have provided limited long-term data on TFBC repair outcomes. The effect of mechanical stimulation on TFBC has not been explored extensively.

PURPOSE

To evaluate functional outcomes after rotator cuff repair with engineered TFBC subjected to mechanical stimulation in a 6-month follow-up using a canine in vivo model.

STUDY DESIGN

Controlled laboratory study.

METHODS

A total of 40 canines with an acute infraspinatus (ISP) tendon transection model were randomly allocated to 4 groups (n =10): (1) unilateral ISP tendon undergoing suture repair only (control surgery); (2) augmentation with engineered TFBC alone (TFBC); (3) augmentation with engineered TFBC and bone marrow-derived stem cells (BMSCs) (TFBC+C); and (4) augmentation with engineered TFBC and BMSCs, as well as mechanical stimulation (TFBC+C+M). Outcome measures-including biomechanical evaluations such as failure strength, stiffness, failure mode, gross appearance, ISP tendon and muscle morphological assessment, and histological analysis-were performed 6 months after surgery.

RESULTS

As shown in the mechanical test, the TFBC+C+M group exhibited higher failure strength compared with other repair techniques. The most common failure mode was avulsion fracture in the TFBC+C+M group, but tendon-bone junction rupture was observed predominantly in different groups. Engineered TFBC with mechanical stimulation showed over 70% relative failure strength compared with normal ISP, and the other groups showed about 50% relative failure strength. Histological analysis revealed less fat infiltration and closer-to-normal muscle fiber structure in the mechanical stimulation group.

CONCLUSION

This study provides evidence that mechanical stimulation of engineered TFBC promotes rotator cuff regeneration, thus supporting its potential for rotator cuff repair augmentation.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

This study provides valuable evidence supporting the use of a novel tissue-engineered material (TFBC) in rotator cuff repair and paves the way for advancements in the field of rotator cuff regeneration.

Novel collagen gradient membranes with multiphasic structures: Preparation, characterization, and biocompatibility

Scaffolds with multiphasic structures are considered to be superior for guided tissue regeneration. Two types of tilapia skin collagen gradient membranes (stepped gradient and linear gradient) with multiphasic structures were prepared by controlling the collagen concentrations and the freezing rates. The results revealed that collagen gradient membranes were more capable of guiding tissue regeneration compared to homogeneous membranes. These two gradient membranes featured a dense outer layer and a loose inner layer, with good mechanical properties as indicated by tensile strengths of more than 250 Kpa and porosities exceeding 85 %. Additionally, these membranes also showed good hydrophilicity and water absorption, with an inner layer contact angle of less than 91° and a water absorption ratio greater than 40 times. Furthermore, the multiphasic scaffolds were proved to be biocompatible by the acute toxicity assay, the intradermal irritation test and so on. Gradient membranes could effectively promote the adhesion and proliferation of fibroblasts and osteoblasts, through elevating the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway by TGF-β and Smads, and activating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway by LRP5 and β-catenin, similar to homogenous membranes. Therefore, collagen gradient membranes from tilapia skin show important application value in guiding tissue regeneration.

Current Therapeutic Strategies of Intervertebral Disc Regenerative Medicine

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is one of the most frequent causes of low back pain. No treatment is currently available to delay the progression of IDD. Conservative treatment or surgical interventions is only used to target the symptoms of IDD rather than treat the underlying cause. Currently, numerous potential therapeutic strategies are available, including molecular therapy, gene therapy, and cell therapy. However, the hostile environment of degenerated discs is a major problem that has hindered the clinical applicability of such approaches. In this regard, the design of drugs using alternative delivery systems (macro-, micro-, and nano-sized particles) may resolve this problem. These can protect and deliver biomolecules along with helping to improve the therapeutic effect of drugs via concentrating, protecting, and prolonging their presence in the degenerated disc. This review summarizes the research progress of diagnosis and the current options for treating IDD.

Deciphering adipose development: Function, differentiation and regulation

The overdevelopment of adipose tissues, accompanied by excess lipid accumulation and energy storage, leads to adipose deposition and obesity. With the increasing incidence of obesity in recent years, obesity is becoming a major risk factor for human health, causing various relevant diseases (including hypertension, diabetes, osteoarthritis and cancers). Therefore, it is of significance to antagonize obesity to reduce the risk of obesity-related diseases. Excess lipid accumulation in adipose tissues is mediated by adipocyte hypertrophy (expansion of pre-existing adipocytes) or hyperplasia (increase of newly-formed adipocytes). It is necessary to prevent excessive accumulation of adipose tissues by controlling adipose development. Adipogenesis is exquisitely regulated by many factors in vivo and in vitro, including hormones, cytokines, gender and dietary components. The present review has concluded a comprehensive understanding of adipose development including its origin, classification, distribution, function, differentiation and molecular mechanisms underlying adipogenesis, which may provide potential therapeutic strategies for harnessing obesity without impairing adipose tissue function.

Mechanisms underlying the health benefits of intermittent hypoxia conditioning

Intermittent hypoxia (IH) is commonly associated with pathological conditions, particularly obstructive sleep apnoea. However, IH is also increasingly used to enhance health and performance and is emerging as a potent non-pharmacological intervention against numerous diseases. Whether IH is detrimental or beneficial for health is largely determined by the intensity, duration, number and frequency of the hypoxic exposures and by the specific responses they engender. Adaptive responses to hypoxia protect from future hypoxic or ischaemic insults, improve cellular resilience and functions, and boost mental and physical performance. The cellular and systemic mechanisms producing these benefits are highly complex, and the failure of different components can shift long-term adaptation to maladaptation and the development of pathologies. Rather than discussing in detail the well-characterized individual responses and adaptations to IH, we here aim to summarize and integrate hypoxia-activated mechanisms into a holistic picture of the body's adaptive responses to hypoxia and specifically IH, and demonstrate how these mechanisms might be mobilized for their health benefits while minimizing the risks of hypoxia exposure.

BMSCs-EVs Alleviate Pelvic Floor Dysfunction in Mice by Reducing Inflammation and Promoting Tissue Regeneration

BACKGROUND/AIM

Pelvic floor dysfunctions (PFDs), which encompass pelvic organ prolapse (POP), stress urinary incontinence (SUI), and anal incontinence (AI), are common degenerative diseases in women. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) hold promise for the treatment of PFDs. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from BMSCs, have displayed an extensive role in intercellular communication and tissue repair. However, efficacy of the treatment using EVs originated from BMSCs on mouse models of PFD remains unknown. This study investigated the therapeutic potential of BMSC-derived EVs in a female PFD mouse model induced by vaginal distension (VD).

MATERIALS AND METHODS/RESULTS

Flow cytometry analysis confirmed the positive expression of BMSC-related markers, and successful induction of multilineage differentiation further validated their characteristics. As expected, the EVs extracted from BMSCs exhibited typical cup-shaped and circular-shaped structures. In the PFD model, BMSC-derived EVs significantly reduced the levels of inflammatory cytokines (p<0.05), improved tissue repair, and mitigated neutrophil infiltration. Furthermore, EVs promoted cell proliferation, decreased expression of relaxin receptors, increased expression of elastin, and elevated collagen content in the anterior vaginal wall tissue (p<0.05), suggesting beneficial effects on tissue regeneration and connective tissue restoration in PFD.

CONCLUSION

BMSC-derived EVs effectively reduce tissue inflammation, promote tissue regeneration and connective tissue reconstruction, and improve pelvic support deficiency, thereby alleviating PFD induced by vaginal distension (VD) in vivo.

Dental stem cell dynamics in periodontal ligament regeneration: from mechanism to application

Periodontitis, a globally prevalent chronic inflammatory disease is characterized by the progressive degradation of tooth-supporting structures, particularly the periodontal ligament (PDL), which can eventually result in tooth loss. Despite the various clinical interventions available, most focus on symptomatic relief and lack substantial evidence of supporting the functional regeneration of the PDL. Dental stem cells (DSCs), with their homology and mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) properties, have gained significant attention as a potential avenue for PDL regeneration. Consequently, multiple therapeutic strategies have been developed to enhance the efficacy of DSC-based treatments and improve clinical outcomes. This review examines the mechanisms by which DSCs and their derivatives promote PDL regeneration, and explores the diverse applications of exogenous implantation and endogenous regenerative technology (ERT) aimed at amplifying the regenerative capacity of endogenous DSCs. Additionally, the persistent challenges and controversies surrounding DSC therapies are discussed, alongside an evaluation of the limitations in current research on the underlying mechanisms and innovative applications of DSCs in PDL regeneration with the aim of providing new insights for future development. Periodontitis, a chronic inflammatory disease, represents a major global public health concern, affecting a significant proportion of the population and standing as the leading cause tooth loss in adults. The functional periodontal ligament (PDL) plays an indispensable role in maintaining periodontal health, as its structural and biological integrity is crucial for the long-term prognosis of periodontal tissues. It is widely recognized as the cornerstone of periodontal regeneration Despite the availability of various treatments, ranging from nonsurgical interventions to guided tissue regeneration (GTR) techniques, these methods have shown limited success in achieving meaningful PDL regeneration. As a result, the inability to fully restore PDL function underscores the urgent need for innovative therapeutic strategies at reconstructing this essential structure. Stem cell therapy, known for its regenerative and immunomodulatory potential, offers a promising approach for periodontal tissue repair. Their application marks a significant paradigm shift in the treatment of periodontal diseases, opening new avenues for functional PDL regeneration. However, much of the current research has primarily focused on the regeneration of alveolar bone and gingiva, as these hard and soft tissues can be more easily evaluated through visual assessment. The complexity of PDL structure, coupled with the intricate interactions among cellular and molecular components, presents significant scientific and clinical hurdles in translating DSC research into practical therapeutic applications. This review provides a thorough exploration of DSC dynamics in periodontal regeneration, detailing their origins, properties, and derived products, while also examining their potential mechanisms and applications in PDL regeneration. It offers an in-depth analysis of the current research, landscape, acknowledging both the progress made and the challenges that remain in bridging the gap between laboratory findings and clinical implementation. Finally, the need for continued investigation into the intricate mechanisms governing DSC behavior and the optimization of their use in regenerative therapies for periodontal diseases is also emphasized.

Elevated expression levels of the protein kinase DYRK1B induce mesenchymal features in A549 lung cancer cells

BACKGROUND

The protein kinase DYRK1B is a negative regulator of cell proliferation but has been found to be overexpressed in diverse human solid cancers. While DYRK1B is recognized to promote cell survival and adaption to stressful conditions, the consequences of elevated DYRK1B levels in cancer cells are largely uncharted.

METHODS

To elucidate the role of DYRK1B in cancer cells, we established a A549 lung adenocarcinoma cell model featuring conditional overexpression of DYRK1B. This system was used to characterize the impact of heightened DYRK1B levels on gene expression and to monitor phenotypic and functional changes.

RESULTS

A549 cells with induced overexpression of wild type DYRK1B acquired a mesenchymal cell morphology with diminished cell-cell contacts and a reorganization of the pericellular actin cytoskeleton into stress fibers. This transition was not observed in cells overexpressing a catalytically impaired DYRK1B variant. The phenotypic changes were associated with increased expression of the transcription factors SNAIL and SLUG, which are core regulators of epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT). Further profiling of DYRK1B-overexpressing cells revealed transcriptional changes that are characteristic for the mesenchymal conversion of epithelial cells, including the upregulation of genes that are related to cancer cell invasion and metastasis. Functionally, DYRK1B overexpression enhanced the migratory capacity of A549 cells in a wound healing assay.

CONCLUSIONS

The present data identify DYRK1B as a regulator of phenotypic plasticity in A549 cells. Increased expression of DYRK1B induces mesenchymal traits in A549 lung adenocarcinoma cells.

Self-assembled aldehyde dehydrogenase-activatable nano-prodrug for cancer stem cell-enriched tumor detection and treatment

Cancer stem cells, characterized by high tumorigenicity and drug-resistance, are often responsible for tumor progression and metastasis. Aldehyde dehydrogenases, often overexpressed in cancer stem cells enriched tumors, present a potential target for specific anti-cancer stem cells treatment. In this study, we report a self-assembled nano-prodrug composed of aldehyde dehydrogenases activatable photosensitizer and disulfide-linked all-trans retinoic acid for diagnosis and targeted treatment of cancer stem cells enriched tumors. The disulfide-linked all-trans retinoic acid can load with photosensitizer and self-assemble into a stable nano-prodrug, which can be disassembled into all-trans retinoic acid and photosensitizer in cancer stem cells by high level of glutathione. As for the released photosensitizer, overexpressed aldehyde dehydrogenase catalyzes the oxidation of aldehydes to carboxyl under cancer stem cells enriched microenvironment, activating the generation of reactive oxygen species and fluorescence emission. This generation of reactive oxygen species leads to direct killing of cancer stem cells and is accompanied by a noticeable fluorescence enhancement for real-time monitoring of the cancer stem cells enriched microenvironment. Moreover, the released all-trans retinoic acid, as a differentiation agent, reduce the cancer stem cells stemness and improve the cancer stem cells enriched microenvironment, offering a synergistic effect for enhanced anti-cancer stem cells treatment of photosensitizer in inhibition of in vivo tumor growth and metastasis.

Interleukin-33 induces angiogenesis after myocardial infarction via AKT/eNOS signaling pathway

Myocardial infarction (MI) is one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity worldwide. MI-damaged vascular structures are difficult to completely restore due to the heart's low regenerative capacity. Given interleukin-33 (IL-33) as a potent endothelial activator promoting angiogenesis, this study investigated the role of IL-33 in angiogenesis and cardiac repair after MI. A mouse model of MI was established. IL-33 improved cardiac function and induced an increase in vascular density after MI. Besides, IL-33 promoted human endothelial cells proliferation, migration, and differentiation under both normoxic and hypoxic conditions, consistently with increased angiogenesis in vivo. Mechanistic studies demonstrated that IL-33 could promote angiogenesis by activating eNOS and AKT, and stimulating NO production in vivo and in vitro. Given that injection of exogenous IL-33 induced an inflammatory response, we employed a multifunctional biomimetic nanoparticle drug delivery system to deliver IL-33, thereby enhancing its targeting to the heart for fibrotic therapy and reducing inflammation. In conclusion, our results indicate that IL-33 promotes endothelial angiogenesis after MI through AKT/eNOS/NO signaling pathway. PM&EM/IL-33 nanoparticles may hold promising therapeutic potential for protecting cardiac ischemic injury and mitigating inflammation.

Polyethyleneimine facilitates the growth and electrophysiological characterization of iPSC-derived motor neurons

Induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology, in combination with electrophysiological characterization via multielectrode array (MEA), has facilitated the utilization of iPSC-derived motor neurons (iPSC-MNs) as highly valuable models for underpinning pathogenic mechanisms and developing novel therapeutic interventions for motor neuron diseases (MNDs). However, the challenge of MN adherence to the MEA plate and the heterogeneity presented in iPSC-derived cultures raise concerns about the reproducibility of the findings obtained from these cellular models. We discovered that one novel factor modulating the electrophysiological activity of iPSC-MNs is the extracellular matrix (ECM) used in the coating to support in vitro growth, differentiation and maturation of iPSC-MNs. The current study showed that two coating conditions, namely, Poly-L-ornithine/Matrigel (POM) and Polyethyleneimine (PEI) strongly promoted attachment of iPSC-MNs on MEA culture dishes compared to three other coating conditions, and both facilitated the maturation of iPSC-MNs as characterized by the detection of extensive electrophysiological activities from the MEA plates. POM coating accelerated the maturation of the iPSC-MNs for up to 5 weeks, which suits modeling of neurodevelopmental disorders. However, the application of PEI resulted in more even distribution of the MNs on the culture dish and reduced variability of electrophysiological signals from the iPSC-MNs in 7-week cultures, which permitted the detection of enhanced excitability in iPSC-MNs from patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). This study provides a comprehensive comparison of five coating conditions and offers POM and PEI as favorable coatings for in vitro modeling of neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders, respectively.

Synergistic effects of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells/neural stem cells and epidural electrical stimulation on spinal cord injury rehabilitation

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a severe neurological condition marked by a complex pathology leading to irreversible functional loss, which current treatments fail to improve. Epidural electrical stimulation (EES) shows promise in alleviating pathological pain, regulating hemodynamic disturbances, and enhancing motor function by modulating residual interneurons in the lower spinal cord. Cell transplantation (CT), especially using human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs) and neural stem cells (NSCs), has significantly improved sensory and motor recovery in SCI. However, the limitations of single treatments have driven the exploration of a multifaceted strategy, combining various modalities to optimize recovery at different stages. To comprehensively investigate the effectiveness of in situ transplantation of hUCMSCs/NSCs combined with subacute epidural electrical stimulation in a murine spinal cord crush injury model, providing valuable references for future animal studies and clinical research. In this study, we first examined neural stem cell changes via mRNA sequencing in an in vitro Transwell co-culture model. We then explored cell interaction mechanisms using proliferation assays, differentiation assays, and neuron complexity analysis. For animal experiments, 40 C57BL/6 mice were assigned to four groups (Injury/EES/CT/Combination). Histological evaluations employed HE and immunofluorescence staining, while electrophysiological and behavioral tests assessed motor recovery. Quantitative data were reported as mean ± standard error, with statistical analyses performed using GraphPad Prism and SPSS. Initially, we found that NSCs in the in vitro co-culture model showed a unique expression profile of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) compared to controls. GO/KEGG analysis indicated these DEGs were mainly linked to cell differentiation and growth factor secretion pathways. Neuronal and astrocytic markers further confirmed enhanced NSC differentiation and neuronal maturation in the co-culture model. In vivo, live imaging and human nuclei immunofluorescence staining revealed that transplanted cells persisted for some time post-transplantation. Histological analysis showed that during acute inflammation, both the stem cell and combined therapy groups significantly inhibited microglial polarization. In the chronic phase, these groups reduced fibrotic scar formation and encouraged astrocytic bridging. Behavioral tests, including swimming and gait analysis, demonstrated that combined CT and EES therapy was more effective than either treatment alone. In summary, the combined therapy offers a promising approach for spinal cord injury treatment, providing superior outcomes over individual treatments. Our findings underscore the potential of a combined treatment approach utilizing stem cells transplantation and EES as an effective strategy for the comprehensive management of spinal cord crush injury in mice. This integrated approach holds promise for enhancing functional recovery and improving the quality of life for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI).

Polydeoxyribonucleotide ameliorates IL-1β-induced impairment of chondrogenic differentiation in human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative disease of the joints, prevalent worldwide. Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) is used for treating knee OA. However, the role of PDRN in IL-1β-induced inflammatory responses in human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) remains unknown. Here, we investigated the role of PDRN in IL-1β-induced impairment of chondrogenic differentiation in hBMSCs. hBMSCs treated with PDRN showed a large micromass, enhanced safranin O and alcian blue staining intensity, and increased expression of chondrogenic genes in IL-1β-induced inflammatory responses, in addition to regulation of catabolic and anabolic genes. In addition, PDRN treatment suppressed the expression of inflammatory cytokines and mitigated IL-1β-induced apoptosis in hBMSCs. Mechanistically, PDRN treatment increased the formation of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and upregulated the phosphorylation of cAMP-dependent protein kinase A (PKA)/cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) through the adenosine A2A receptor in hBMSCs and thus blocked the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cell (NF-κB) signaling pathway. Thus, IL-1β-induced expression of inflammatory cytokines in hBMSCs was directly reduced by adenosine A2A receptor activation. Based on our results, we suggest that PDRN may be a promising MSC-based therapeutic agent for OA.

Tissue engineering strategies for ocular regeneration; from bench to the bedside

Millions globally suffer from visual impairment, complicating the management of eye diseases due to various ocular barriers. The eye's complex structure and the limitations of existing treatments have spurred interest in tissue engineering (TE) as a solution. This approach offers new functionalities and improves therapeutic outcomes over traditional drug delivery methods, creating opportunities for treating various eye disorders, from corneal injuries to retinal degeneration. In our review of recent articles concerning the use of scaffolds for eye repair, we categorized scaffolds employed in eye TE from recent studies into four types based on tissue characteristics: natural, synthetic, biohybrid, and decellularized tissue. Additionally, we gathered data on the cell types and animal models associated with each scaffold. This allowed us to gather valuable insights into the benefits and drawbacks of each material. Our research elucidates that, in comparison to conventional treatment modalities, scaffolds in TE emulate the extracellular matrix (ECM) of the eye and facilitate cell proliferation and tissue regeneration. These scaffolds can be precisely tailored to incorporate growth factors that augment the healing process while also providing considerable advantages such as bacterial inhibition, biocompatibility, and enhanced durability. However, they also have drawbacks, such as potential immune responses, poor tissue integration, complex and costly manufacturing, and inconsistent degradation rates that can affect their effectiveness. In this review, we provide an overview of the present condition of eye regenerative treatments, assess notable preclinical and clinical research endeavors, contemplate the obstacles encountered, and speculate on potential advancements in the upcoming decade.

Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Cancer Therapy

The mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) are multipotent cells that were initially discovered in the bone marrow in the late 1960s but have so far been discovered in almost all tissues of the body. The multipotent property of MSCs enables them to differentiate into various cell types and lineages, such as adipocytes, chondrocytes, and osteocytes. The immunomodulation capacity and tumor-targeting features of MSCs made their use crucial for cell-based therapies in cancer treatment, yet limited advancement could be observed in translational medicine prospects due to the need for more information regarding the controversial roles of MSCs in crosstalk tumors. In this review, we discuss the therapeutic potential of MSCs, the controversial roles played by MSCs in cancer progression, and the anticancer therapeutic strategies that are in association with MSCs. Finally, the clinical trials designed for the direct use of MSCs for cancer therapy or for their use in decreasing the side effects of other cancer therapies are also mentioned in this review to evaluate the current status of MSC-based cancer therapies.

Potential molecular targets for the pharmacologic management of non-traumatic osteonecrosis

INTRODUCTION

Non-traumatic osteonecrosis is a debilitating condition marked by bone death, primarily due to reduced blood supply. Currently, no effective pharmacologic intervention is available to manage this condition effectively.

AREAS COVERED

Lipid metabolic disorders, chronic inflammation, vascular dysfunction, coagulopathy, and impaired bone homeostasis are suggested as the key pathogenic mechanisms involved in the development of non-traumatic osteonecrosis. Targeting any of these dysfunctions offers a potential avenue for pharmacologic intervention. However, the potential molecular targets for pharmacologic treatment of non-traumatic osteonecrosis remain underexplored. In this study, we reviewed available databases to compile a comprehensive set of pathogenic mechanisms and corresponding therapeutic targets for non-traumatic osteonecrosis.

EXPERT OPINION

Evidence suggests that a single pathogenic mechanism cannot fully explain the development of osteonecrosis, supporting the adoption of a multi-pathogenic theory. This theory implies that effective management of non-traumatic osteonecrosis requires targeting multiple pathogenic mechanisms simultaneously. Moreover, the same pathogenic mechanisms are unlikely to explain osteonecrosis development in patients with different etiologies. Consequently, a one-size-fits-all approach to medication is unlikely to be effective across all types of non-traumatic osteonecrosis. Future research should, therefore, focus on developing multi-target pharmacologic treatments tailored to the specific etiology of non-traumatic osteonecrosis.

Hoxa5 alleviates adipose tissue metabolic distortions in high-fat diet mice associated with a reduction in MERC

BACKGROUND

Mitochondria-endoplasmic reticulum membrane contact (MERC) is an important mode of intercellular organelle communication and plays a crucial role in adipose tissue metabolism. Functionality of Hoxa5 is an important transcription factor involved in adipose tissue fate determination and metabolic regulation, but the relationship between Hoxa5 and MERC is not well understood.

RESULTS

In our study, we established an obesity model mouse by high-fat diet (HFD), induced the alteration of Hoxa5 expression by adenoviral transfection, and explored the effect of Hoxa5 on MERC dysfunction and metabolic distortions of adipose tissue with the help of transmission electron microscopy, calcium ion probe staining, and other detection means. The results showed Hoxa5 was able to reduce MERC production, alleviate endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and calcium over-transport, and affect cGAS-STING-mediated innate immune response affecting adipose tissue energy metabolism, as well as affect the AKT-IP3R pathway to alleviate insulin resistance and ameliorate metabolic distortions in adipose tissue of mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that Hoxa5 can ameliorate high-fat diet-induced MERC overproduction and related functional abnormalities, in which finding is expected to provide new ideas for the improvement of obesity-related metabolic distortions.

The chromatin tapestry as a framework for neurodevelopment

The neuronal nucleus houses a meticulously organized genome. Within this structure, genetic material is not simply compacted but arranged into a precise and functional 3D chromatin landscape essential for cellular regulation. This mini-review highlights the importance of this chromatin landscape in healthy neurodevelopment, as well as the diseases that occur with aberrant chromatin architecture. We discuss insights into the fundamental mechanistic relationship between histone modifications, DNA methylation, and genome organization. We then discuss findings that reveal how these epigenetic features change throughout normal neurodevelopment. Finally, we highlight single-gene neurodevelopmental disorders that illustrate the interdependence of epigenetic features, showing how disruptions in DNA methylation or genome architecture can ripple across the entire epigenome. As such, we emphasize the importance of measuring multiple chromatin architectural aspects, as the disruption of one mechanism can likely impact others in the intricate epigenetic network. This mini-review underscores the vast gaps in our understanding of chromatin structure in neurodevelopmental diseases and the substantial research needed to understand the interplay between chromatin features and neurodevelopment.

Comprehensive review on leucine-rich pentatricopeptide repeat-containing protein (LRPPRC, PPR protein): A burgeoning target for cancer therapy

Leucine-rich pentatricopeptide repeat-containing (LRPPRC), known as the gene mutations that cause Leigh Syndrome French Canadian, encodes a high molecular weight PPR protein (157,905 Da), LRPPRC. LRPPRC binds to DNA, RNA, and proteins to regulate transcription and translation, leading to changes in cell fate. Increasing evidence indicates that LRPPRC plays a pivotal role in various human diseases, particularly cancer in recent years. Here, we review the structure, function, molecular mechanism, as well as inhibitors of LRPPRC. LRPPRC expression elevates in most cancer types and high expression of LRPPRC predicts the poor prognosis of cancer patients. Targeting LRPPRC suppresses tumor progression by affecting several cancer hallmarks, including signal transduction, cancer metabolism, and immune regulation. LRPPRC is a promising target in cancer research, serving as both a biomarker and therapeutic target. Further studies are required to extend the understanding of LRPPRC function and molecular mechanism, as well as to refine novel therapeutic strategies targeting LRPPRC in cancer therapy.

Human mesenchymal stem/stromal cell based-therapy in diabetes mellitus: experimental and clinical perspectives

Diabetes mellitus (DM), a chronic metabolic disease, poses a significant global health challenge, with current treatments often fail to prevent the long-term disease complications. Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) are, adult progenitors, able to repair injured tissues, exhibiting regenerative effects and immunoregulatory and anti-inflammatory responses, so they have been emerged as a promising therapeutic approach in many immune-related and inflammatory diseases. This review summarizes the therapeutic mechanisms and outcomes of MSCs, derived from different human tissue sources (hMSCs), in the context of DM type 1 and type 2. Animal model studies and clinical trials indicate that hMSCs can facilitate pleiotropic actions in the diabetic milieu for improved metabolic indices. In addition to modulating abnormally active immune system, hMSCs can ameliorate peripheral insulin resistance, halt beta-cell destruction, preserve residual beta-cell mass, promote beta-cell regeneration and insulin production, support islet grafts, and correct lipid metabolism. Moreover, hMSC-free derivatives, importantly extracellular vesicles, have shown potent experimental anti-diabetic efficacy. Moreover, the review discusses the diverse priming strategies that are introduced to enhance the preclinical anti-diabetic actions of hMSCs. Such strategies are recommended to restore the characteristics and functions of MSCs isolated from patients with DM for autologous implications. Finally, limitations and merits for the wide spread clinical applications of MSCs in DM such as the challenge of autologous versus allogeneic MSCs, the optimal MSC tissue source and administration route, the necessity of larger clinical trials for longer evaluation duration to assess safety concerns, are briefly presented.

Concurrent hypoxia and apoptosis imparts immune programming potential in mesenchymal stem cells: Lesson from acute graft-versus-host-disease model

BACKGROUND

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have emerged as promising candidates for immune modulation in various diseases that are associated with dysregulated immune responses like Graft-versus-Host-Disease (GVHD). MSCs are pleiotropic and the fate of MSCs following administration is a major determinant of their therapeutic efficacy.

METHODS

Human MSCs were derived from bone marrow (BM) and Wharton's Jelly (WJ) and preconditioned through exposure to hypoxia and induction of apoptosis, either sequentially or simultaneously. The immune programming potential of preconditioned MSCs was evaluated by assessing their effects on T cell proliferation, induction of Tregs, programming of effector T-cell towards Th2 phenotype, macrophage polarization in the direct co-culture of MSCs and aGVHD patients-derived PBMNCs. Additionally, efferocytosis of MSCs and relative change in the expression of immunomodulatory soluble factors were examined.

RESULTS

Our study demonstrated that hypoxia preconditioned apoptotic MSCs (BM-MSCs, WJ-MSCs) bear more immune programming ability in a cellular model of acute Graft-versus-Host-Disease (aGVHD). Our findings revealed that WJ-MSCsHYP+APO were superior to BM-MSCsHYP+APO for immune regulation. These induced the differentiation of CD4+T-cell into Tregs, enhanced Th2 effector responses, and simultaneously mitigated Th1- and Th17 responses. Additionally, this approach led to the polarization of M1 macrophages toward an M2 phenotype.

CONCLUSION

Our study highlights the potential of WJ-MSCs conditioned with hypoxia and apoptosis concurrently, as a promising therapeutic strategy for aGVHD. It underscores the importance of considering MSC apoptosis in optimizing MSCs-based cellular therapy protocols for enhanced therapeutic efficacy in aGvHD.

Clinically Relevant and Precisely Printable Live Adipose Tissue-Based Bio-Ink for Volumetric Soft Tissue Reconstruction

Autologous fat is widely used in soft tissue reconstruction; however, significant volume reduction owing to necrosis and degradation of the transplanted adipose tissue (AT) remains a major challenge. To address this issue, a novel live AT micro-fragment-based bio-ink (ATmf bio-ink) compatible with precision 3D printing, is developed. Live AT micro-fragments of ≈280 µm in size are prepared using a custom tissue micronizer and they are incorporated into a fibrinogen/gelatin mixture to create the ATmf bio-ink. AT micro-fragments exhibit high viability and preserve the heterogeneous cell population and extracellular matrix of the native AT. The developed bio-ink enables precise micropatterning and provides an excellent adipo-inductive microenvironment. AT grafts produced by co-printing the bio-ink with polycaprolactone demonstrate a 500% improvement in volume retention and a 300% increase in blood vessel infiltration in vivo compared with conventional microfat grafts. In vivo engraftment of AT grafts is further enhanced by using a stem cell-laden ATmf bio-ink. Last, it is successfully demonstrated that the bio-ink is enabled for the creation of clinically relevant and patient-specific AT grafts for patients undergoing partial mastectomy. This novel ATmf bio-ink for volumetric soft tissue reconstruction offers a pioneering solution for addressing the limitations of existing clinical techniques.

DNMT3A transcriptionally downregulated by KLF5 alleviates LPS-induced inflammatory response and promotes osteogenic differentiation in hPDLSCs

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease typically characterized by the destruction of periodontal tissues and complicated etiology. DNA methyltransferase 3A (DNMT3A) has been implicated in possessing pro-inflammatory properties. This study sought to explore the role of DNMT3A in periodontitis and its relevant mechanism.

METHODOLOGY

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was used to induce inflammation in human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs). DNMT3A and KLF5 expressions were detected using RT-qPCR and western blot. The levels of inflammatory cytokines and inflammation-related proteins were detected using ELISA and western blot. NF-κB p65 expression was detected using immunofluorescence (IF) assay, while osteogenic differentiation was assessed using ALP assay and ARS staining. Western blot was used to measure the protein contents associated with osteogenic differentiation. DNMT3A activity was detected using luciferase report assay and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) was used to verify the interaction between KLF5 and DNMT3A.

RESULTS

DNMT3A expression increased in LPS-induced hPDLSCs. Silencing DNMT3A suppressed the LPS-induced inflammation in hPDLSCs, while promoting osteogenic differentiation. It was also found that transcriptional factor KLF5 could bind to DNMT3A promoters and regulate DNMT3A expression. Rescue experiments showed that KLF5 interference partially counteracted the inhibitory impacts of DNMT3A deficiency on inflammation and the promotive effects on osteogenic differentiation in LPS-induced hPDLSCs.

CONCLUSION

DNMT3A, when transcriptionally downregulated by KLF5, could alleviate LPS-challenged inflammatory responses and facilitate osteogenic differentiation in hPDLSCs.

A complete sojourn on exosomes: Potential diagnostic and therapeutic agents

Exosomes are vesicles produced by the human body for carrying certain information from one cell to another. The carriers are nanosized vesicles carrying a wide variety of cargo like RNA, DNA, and proteins. Exosomes are also being used in the early diagnosis of various diseases and disorders. Current research focuses on exosomes tailoring for achieving therapeutic potential in various diseases and disorders. Besides this, their biocompatibility, stability, adjustable efficacy, and targeting properties make them attractive vehicles for formulation developers. Various preclinical studies suggested that the exosome culture cells are also modified with certain genes to achieve the desirable properties of resultant exosomes. The human body also produces some other vesicles like Ectosomes and Exomeres produced along with exosomes. Additionally, vesicles like Migrasomes are produced by migrating cells and apoptotic bodies, and Oncosomes are produced by cancer cells which can also be useful for the diagnosis of various diseases and disorders. For the separation of desired exosomes from other vesicles some latest techniques that can be useful viz differential centrifugation, density gradient centrifugation, and immunoaffinity purification have been discussed. Briefly, this review summarized various techniques of isolation of purified exosomes along with an overview of the application of exosomes in various neurodegenerative disorders and cancer along with various latest aspects of exosomes in disease progression and management which might be beneficial for the researchers.

Recent advances in liposomes and peptide-based therapeutics for glioblastoma treatment

In the context of glioblastoma treatment, the penetration of drugs is drastically limited by the blood-brain-barrier (BBB). Emerging therapies have focused on the field of therapeutic peptides for their excellent BBB targeting properties that promote a deep tumor penetration. Peptide-based strategies are also renowned for their abilities of driving cargo such as liposomal system allowing an active targeting of receptors overexpressed on GBM cells. This review provides a detailed description of the internalization mechanisms of specific GBM homing and penetrating peptides as well as the latest in vitro/in vivo studies of liposomes functionalized with them. The purpose of this review is to summarize a selection of promising pre-clinical results that demonstrate the advantages of this nanosystem, including an increase of tumor cell targeting, triggering drug accumulation and thus a strong antitumor effect. Aware of the early stage of these studies, many challenges need to be overcome to promote peptide-directed liposome at clinical level. In particular, the lack of suitable production, the difficulty to characterize the nanosystem and therapeutic competition leaded by antibodies.

Advancing diabetes management: Exploring pancreatic beta-cell restoration's potential and challenges

Diabetes mellitus, characterized by chronic hyperglycemia due to insulin deficiency or resistance, poses a significant global health burden. Central to its pathogenesis is the dysfunction or loss of pancreatic beta cells, which are res-ponsible for insulin production. Recent advances in beta-cell regeneration research offer promising strategies for diabetes treatment, aiming to restore endogenous insulin production and achieve glycemic control. This review explores the physiological basis of beta-cell function, recent scientific advan-cements, and the challenges in translating these findings into clinical applications. It highlights key developments in stem cell therapy, gene editing technologies, and the identification of novel regenerative molecules. Despite the potential, the field faces hurdles such as ensuring the safety and long-term efficacy of regen-erative therapies, ethical concerns around stem cell use, and the complexity of beta-cell differentiation and integration. The review highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, increased funding, the need for patient-centered approaches and the integration of new treatments into comprehensive care strategies to overcome these challenges. Through continued research and collaboration, beta-cell regeneration holds the potential to revolutionize diabetes care, turning a chronic condition into a manageable or even curable disease.

An integrated view of the structure and function of the human 4D nucleome

The dynamic three-dimensional (3D) organization of the human genome (the "4D Nucleome") is closely linked to genome function. Here, we integrate a wide variety of genomic data generated by the 4D Nucleome Project to provide a detailed view of human 3D genome organization in widely used embryonic stem cells (H1-hESCs) and immortalized fibroblasts (HFFc6). We provide extensive benchmarking of 3D genome mapping assays and integrate these diverse datasets to annotate spatial genomic features across scales. The data reveal a rich complexity of chromatin domains and their sub-nuclear positions, and over one hundred thousand structural loops and promoter-enhancer interactions. We developed 3D models of population-based and individual cell-to-cell variation in genome structure, establishing connections between chromosome folding, nuclear organization, chromatin looping, gene transcription, and DNA replication. We demonstrate the use of computational methods to predict genome folding from DNA sequence, uncovering potential effects of genetic variants on genome structure and function. Together, this comprehensive analysis contributes insights into human genome organization and enhances our understanding of connections between the regulation of genome function and 3D genome organization in general.

Emergence of the stromal vascular fraction and secretome in regenerative medicine

Recently, we read a mini-review published by Jeyaraman et al. The article explored the optimal methods for isolating mesenchymal stromal cells from adipose tissue-derived stromal vascular fraction (SVF). Key factors include tissue source, processing techniques, cell viability assessment, and the advantages/disadvantages of autologous vs allogeneic use. The authors emphasized the need for standardized protocols for SVF isolation, ethical and regulatory standards for cell-based therapy, and safety to advance mesenchymal stromal cell-based therapies in human patients. This manuscript shares our perspective on SVF isolation in canines. We discussed future directions to potentiate effective regenerative medicine therapeutics in human and veterinary medicine.

Bioengineering breakthroughs: The impact of stem cell models on advanced therapy medicinal product development

The burgeoning field of bioengineering has witnessed significant strides due to the advent of stem cell models, particularly in their application in advanced therapy medicinal products (ATMPs). In this review, we examine the multifaceted impact of these developments, emphasizing the potential of stem cell models to enhance the sophistication of ATMPs and to offer alternatives to animal testing. Stem cell-derived tissues are particularly promising because they can reshape the preclinical landscape by providing more physiologically relevant and ethically sound platforms for drug screening and disease modelling. We also discuss the critical challenges of reproducibility and accuracy in measurements to ensure the integrity and utility of stem cell models in research and application. Moreover, this review highlights the imperative of stem cell models to align with regulatory standards, ensuring using stem cells in ATMPs translates into safe and effective clinical therapies. With regulatory approval serving as a gateway to clinical adoption, the collaborative efforts between scientists and regulators are vital for the progression of stem cell applications from bench to bedside. We advocate for a balanced approach that nurtures innovation within the framework of rigorous validation and regulatory compliance, ensuring that stem cell-base solutions are maximized to promote public trust and patient health in ATMPs.

Enhancing the functionality of mesenchymal stem cells: An attractive treatment strategy for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease?

The intrinsic heterogeneity of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MASLD) and the intricate pathogenesis have impeded the advancement and clinical implementation of therapeutic interventions, underscoring the critical demand for novel treatments. A recent publication by Li et al proposes mesenchymal stem cells as promising effectors for the treatment of MASLD. This editorial is a continuum of the article published by Jiang et al which focuses on the significance of strategies to enhance the functionality of mesenchymal stem cells to improve efficacy in curing MASLD, including physical pretreatment, drug or chemical pretreatment, pretreatment with bioactive substances, and genetic engineering.

Skeletal muscle reprogramming enhances reinnervation after peripheral nerve injury

Peripheral Nerve Injuries (PNI) affect more than 20 million Americans and severely impact quality of life by causing long-term disability. PNI is characterized by nerve degeneration distal to the site of nerve injury resulting in long periods of skeletal muscle denervation. During this period, muscle fibers atrophy and frequently become incapable of "accepting" innervation because of the slow speed of axon regeneration post injury. We hypothesize that reprogramming the skeletal muscle to an embryonic-like state may preserve its reinnervation capability following PNI. To this end, we generate a mouse model in which NANOG, a pluripotency-associated transcription factor is expressed locally upon delivery of doxycycline (Dox) in a polymeric vehicle. NANOG expression in the muscle upregulates the percentage of Pax7+ nuclei and expression of eMYHC along with other genes that are involved in muscle development. In a sciatic nerve transection model, NANOG expression leads to upregulation of key genes associated with myogenesis, neurogenesis and neuromuscular junction (NMJ) formation. Further, NANOG mice demonstrate extensive overlap between synaptic vesicles and NMJ acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) indicating restored innervation. Indeed, NANOG mice show greater improvement in motor function as compared to wild-type (WT) animals, as evidenced by improved toe-spread reflex, EMG responses and isometric force production. In conclusion, we demonstrate that reprogramming muscle can be an effective strategy to improve reinnervation and functional outcomes after PNI.

Utility of hypoxic modalities for musculoskeletal injury rehabilitation in athletes: A narrative review of mechanisms and contemporary perspectives

Recent evidence suggests that different hypoxic modalities might accelerate the rehabilitation process in injured athletes. In this review, the application of hypoxia during rehabilitation from musculoskeletal injury is explored in relation to two principles: (1) facilitating the healing of damaged tissue, and (2) mitigating detraining and inducing training adaptations with a reduced training load. Key literature that explores the underlying mechanisms for these themes is presented, and considerations for practice and future research directions are outlined. For principle (1), passive intermittent hypoxic exposures might accelerate tissue healing through angiogenic and osteogenic mechanisms. Experimental evidence is largely derived from rodent research, so further work is warranted to establish whether clinically meaningful effects can be observed in humans, before optimal protocols are determined (duration, frequency, and hypoxic severity). Regarding principle (2), a hypoxia-related increase in the cardiometabolic stimulus imposed by low-load exercise is appealing for load-compromised athletes. As rehabilitation progresses, a variety of hypoxic modalities can be implemented to enhance adaptation to energy-systems and resistance-based training, and more efficiently return the athlete to competition readiness. While hypoxic modalities seem promising for accelerating musculoskeletal injury rehabilitation in humans, and are already being widely used in practice, a significant gap remains regarding their evidence-based application.

Cisplatin-resistance and aggressiveness are enhanced by a highly stable endothelin-converting enzyme-1c in lung cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Lung cancer constitutes the leading cause of cancer mortality. High levels of endothelin-1 (ET-1), its cognate receptor ETAR and its activating enzyme, the endothelin-converting enzyme-1 (ECE-1), have been reported in several cancer types, including lung cancer. ECE-1 comprises four isoforms, which only differ in their cytoplasmic N-terminus. Protein kinase CK2 phosphorylates the N-terminus of isoform ECE-1c, increasing its stability and leading to enhanced invasiveness in glioblastoma and colorectal cancer cells, which is believed to be mediated by the amino acid residue Lys-6, a conserved putative ubiquitination site neighboring the CK2-phosphorylated residues Ser-18 and Ser-20. Whether Lys-6 is linked to the acquisition of a cancer stem cell (CSC)-like phenotype and aggressiveness in human non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells has not been studied.

METHODS

In order to establish the role of Lys-6 in the stability of ECE-1c and its involvement in lung cancer aggressiveness, we mutated this residue to a non-ubiquitinable arginine and constitutively expressed the wild-type (ECE-1cWT) and mutant (ECE-1cK6R) proteins in A549 and H1299 human NSCLC cells by lentiviral transduction. We determined the protein stability of these clones alone or in the presence of the CK2 inhibitor silmitasertib, compared to ECE-1cWT and mock-transduced cells. In addition, the concentration of secreted ET-1 in the growth media was determined by ELISA. Expression of stemness genes were determined by Western blot and RT-qPCR. Chemoresistance to cisplatin was studied by MTS viability assay. Migration and invasion were measured through transwell and Matrigel assays, respectively, and the side-population was determined using flow cytometry.

RESULTS

ECE-1cK6R displayed higher stability in NSCLC cells compared to ECE-1cWT-expressing cells, but ET-1 secreted levels showed no difference up to 48 h. Most importantly, ECE-1cK6R promoted expression of the stemness genes c-Myc, Sox-2, Oct-4, CD44 and CD133, which enhance cellular self-renewal capability. Also, the ECE-1cK6R-expressing cells showed higher cisplatin chemoresistance, correlating with an augmented side-population abundance due to the increased expression of the ABCG2 efflux pump. Finally, the ECE-1cK6R-expressing cells showed enhanced invasiveness, which correlated with the regulated expression of known EMT markers.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest an important role of ECE-1c in lung cancer. ECE-1c is key in a non-canonical ET-1-independent mechanism which triggers a CSC-like phenotype, leading to enhanced lung cancer aggressiveness. Underlying this mechanism, ECE-1c is stabilized upon phosphorylation by CK2, which is upregulated in many cancers. Thus, phospho-ECE-1c may be considered as a novel prognostic biomarker of recurrence, as well as the CK2 inhibitor silmitasertib as a potential therapy for lung cancer patients.

Exosomes for Treating Hair Loss: A Review of Clinical Studies

BACKGROUND

The regenerative properties of exosomes make them especially appealing to treat skin and hair diseases. Preclinical studies suggest that exosomes may fuel hair growth by stimulating dermal papilla cells, activating hair follicle stem cells, and promoting angiogenesis. However, very limited data are available on the safety and efficacy of exosome use in human subjects.

OBJECTIVE

To review the published literature on exosome use in human subjects with a focus on safety and the challenges facing clinical implementation in the treatment of androgenetic and nonscarring alopecias.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A review was conducted of PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases and included 48 studies. Twenty-five studies were clinical trials, 14 case reports, 4 case series, 1 retrospective review, and 4 conference abstracts.

RESULTS

Nine clinical studies were found relevant to alopecia. One hundred twenty-five patients received an exosome treatment for hair loss. Side effects were rare. However, in the broader field of dermatology, at least 10 serious adverse events have been reported.

CONCLUSION

Although exosomes have many promising therapeutic applications, there is demand for larger well-designed clinical trials with extended follow-up periods to prove efficacy and a need for consistent manufacturing standards and regulatory oversight to ensure product safety.

The ameliorating effects of adipose-derived stromal vascular fraction cells on blue light-induced rat retinal injury via modulation of TLR4 signaling, apoptosis, and glial cell activity

Blue light (BL)-induced retinal injury has become a very common problem due to over exposure to blue light-emitting sources. This study aimed to investigate the possible ameliorating impact of stromal vascular fraction cells (SVFCs) on BL-induced retinal injury. Forty male albino rats were randomly allocated into four groups. The control group rats were kept in 12-h light/12-h dark. Rats of SVFC-control as the control group, but rats were intravenously injected once by SVFCs. Rats of both the BL-group and BL-SVFC group were exposed to BL for 2 weeks; then rats of the BL-SVFC group were intravenously injected once by SVFCs. Following the BL exposure, rats were kept for 8 weeks. Physical and physiological studies were performed; then retinal tissues were collected for biochemical and histological studies. The BL-group showed physical and physiological changes indicating affection of the visual function. Biochemical marker assessment showed a significant increase in MDA, TLR4 and MYD88 tissue levels with a significant decrease in TAC levels. Histological and ultrastructural assessment showed disruption of the normal histological architecture with retinal pigment epithelium, photoreceptors, and ganglion cell deterioration. A significant increase in NF-κB, caspase-3, and GFAP immunoreactivity was also detected. BL-SVFC group showed a significant improvement in physical, physiological, and biochemical parameters. Retinal tissues revealed amelioration of retinal structural and ultrastructural deterioration and a significant decrease in NF-κB and caspase-3 immunoreactivity with a significant increase in GFAP immunoreaction. This study concluded that SVFCs could ameliorate the BL-induced retinal injury through TLR-4/MYD-88/NF-κB signaling inhibition, regenerative, anti-oxidative, and anti-apoptotic effects.

Role of hsa-miR-543-KIF5C/CALM3 pathway in neuron differentiation of embryonic mesenchymal stem cells

BACKGROUND

Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) have the ability to differentiate into nerve cells, which offers promising options for treating neurodegenerative diseases.

AIM

To explore the important regulatory molecules of hUC-MSCs differentiation into neurons.

METHOD

In this research, the neural differentiation of hUC-MSCs was induced by a low-serum DMSO/BHA/DMEM medium. The GEO database was used to retrieve the relevant datasets. The starBase and miEAA databases were used for bioinformatics analysis. RT-qPCR was used to detect the hsa-miR-543 level and the mRNA levels of NSE, NeuN, NF-M, KIF5C, and CALM3. The protein levels of KIF5C and CALM3 were checked by western blotting.

RESULTS

The expression levels of NSE, NeuN, NF-M, KIF5C, and CALM3 were elevated, while hsa-miR-543 was under-expressed in neuro-induced hUC-MSCs. The increase in NSE, NeuN, and NF-M mRNA levels induced by DMSO/BHA/DMEM was partially reversed by the knockdown of KIF5C and CALM3 in hUC-MSCs. Moreover, the transfection of hsa-miR-543 mimic partially countered the DMSO/BHA/DMEM-induced elevation in NSE, NeuN, NF-M, KIF5C, and CALM3 mRNA levels.

CONCLUSION

KIF5C and CALM3 facilitated the neuronal differentiation of hUC-MSCs, whereas hsa-miR-543 exerted an opposing effect by negatively regulating KIF5C and CALM3.

Cancer stem cells: Masters of all traits

Cancer is a heterogeneous disease, which contributes to its rapid progression and therapeutic failure. Besides interpatient tumor heterogeneity, tumors within a single patient can present with a heterogeneous mix of genetically and phenotypically distinct subclones. These unique subclones can significantly impact the traits of cancer. With the plasticity that intratumoral heterogeneity provides, cancers can easily adapt to changes in their microenvironment and therapeutic exposure. Indeed, tumor cells dynamically shift between a more differentiated, rapidly proliferating state with limited tumorigenic potential and a cancer stem cell (CSC)-like state that resembles undifferentiated cellular precursors and is associated with high tumorigenicity. In this context, CSCs are functionally located at the apex of the tumor hierarchy, contributing to the initiation, maintenance, and progression of tumors, as they also represent the subpopulation of tumor cells most resistant to conventional anti-cancer therapies. Although the CSC model is well established, it is constantly evolving and being reshaped by advancing knowledge on the roles of CSCs in different cancer types. Here, we review the current evidence of how CSCs play a pivotal role in providing the many traits of aggressive tumors while simultaneously evading immunosurveillance and anti-cancer therapy in several cancer types. We discuss the key traits and characteristics of CSCs to provide updated insights into CSC biology and highlight its implications for therapeutic development and improved treatment of aggressive cancers.