Rosmarinic acid alleviates cardiomyocyte apoptosis via cardiac fibroblast in doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity

MicroRNA-1287-5p promotes ferroptosis of osteosarcoma cells through inhibiting GPX4

Osteosarcoma is the most prevalent primary bone malignancy in adolescents, and ferroptosis is implicated in its pathogenesis. MicroRNA (miR)-1287-5p plays critical roles in multiple human cancers, and the present study aims to investigate the role and underlying mechanisms of miR-1287-5p in regulating ferroptosis and osteosarcoma progression. Human osteosarcoma cell lines were treated with the mimic, inhibitor or matched controls of miR-1287-5p. Cell viability, colony formation, cell death ratio and ferroptosis were determined. miR-1287-5p expression was downregulated in human osteosarcoma, but upregulated upon ferroptotic stimulation. Overexpression of miR-1287-5p significantly induced, while inhibition of miR-1287-5p suppressed ferroptosis of osteosarcoma cells, thereby modulating cell viability and colony formation. Mechanistic studies indicated that miR-1287-5p directly bound to the 3'-untranslated region of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) to inhibit its protein level and activity, and that GPX4 overexpression completely abolished the miR-1287-5p mimic-mediated ferroptotic induction and tumor suppression. Moreover, the miR-1287-5p mimic dramatically sensitized human osteosarcoma cells to cisplatin chemotherapy. Our findings prove that miR-1287-5p promotes ferroptosis of osteosarcoma cells through inhibiting GPX4, identifying an adjuvant and even alternative method for the treatment of human osteosarcoma.

MicroRNA-137-3p Improves Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease through Activating AMPKα

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most common chronic liver diseases worldwide and can develop to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and later hepatic cirrhosis with a high prevalence to hepatocellular carcinoma. Oxidative stress and chronic hepatic inflammation are implicated in the pathogenesis of NAFLD. MicroRNA-137-3p (miR-137-3p) are associated with oxidative stress and inflammation; however, its role and mechanism in NAFLD remain unclear. Mice were fed with a high-fat diet (HFD) for 24 weeks to establish the NAFLD model. To overexpress or suppress hepatic miR-137-3p expression, mice were intraperitoneally injected with the agomir, antagomir, or respective controls of miR-137-3p at a dose of 100 mg/kg weekly for 6 consecutive weeks before the mice were sacrificed. To validate the involvement of AMP-activated protein kinase alpha (AMPKα) or cAMP-specific phosphodiesterase 4D (PDE4D), HFD mice were intraperitoneally injected with 20 mg/kg compound C or 0.5 mg/kg rolipram every other day for 8 consecutive weeks before the mice were sacrificed. Hepatic miR-137-3p expression was significantly decreased in mice upon HFD stimulation. miR-137-3p agomir alleviated, while miR-137-3p antagomir facilitated HFD-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and hepatic dysfunction in mice. Mechanistically, we revealed that miR-137-3p is directly bound to the 3'-untranslated region of PDE4D and subsequently increased hepatic cAMP level and protein kinase A activity, thereby activating the downstream AMPKα pathway. In summary, miR-137-3p improves NAFLD through activating AMPKα and it is a promising therapeutic candidate to treat NAFLD.

Cardioprotective effect of rosmarinic acid against myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion injury via suppression of the NF-κB inflammatory signalling pathway and ROS production in mice

CONTEXT

Rosmarinic acid (RosA), a natural poly-phenolic compound isolated from a variety of Labiatae herbs, has been reported to have a range of biological effects.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the cardioprotective effects of RosA against myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Male C57BL/6J mice were given RosA (100 mg/kg) via intragastric administration. After 1 week of administration, the mice were subjected to 30 min/24 h myocardial I/R injury. The mice were randomly subdivided into 4 groups: Vehicle, RosA, Vehicle + I/R, and RosA + I/R. Infarct size (IS), cardiac function (including EF, FS), histopathology, serum enzyme activities, ROS changes, cis aconitase (ACO) activity, and specific mRNA and protein levels were assessed in vivo. HL-1 cells were pre-treated with or without RosA (50 μM), followed by stimulation with 9 h/6 h of oxygen and glucose deprivation/re-oxygenation (OGD/R). The cells were randomly subdivided into 4 groups: Vehicle, RosA, Vehicle + OGD/R, and RosA + OGD/R. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels, ACO activity, ROS changes and protein levels were measured in vitro.

RESULTS

Treatment with RosA reduced the following indicators in vivo (p < 0.05): (1) IS (14.5%); (2) EF (-23.4%) and FS (-18.4%); (3) the myocardial injury enzymes CK-MB (20.8 ng/mL) and cTnI (7.7 ng/mL); (4) DHE-ROS: (94.1%); (5) ACO activity (-2.1 mU/mg protein); (6) ogdh mRNA level (122.9%); and (7) OGDH protein level (69.9%). Moreover, treatment with RosA attenuated the following indicators in vitro (p < 0.05): (1) LDH level (191 U/L); (2) DHE-ROS: (165.2%); (3) ACO activity (-3.2 mU/mg protein); (4) ogdh mRNA level (70.0%); and (5) OGDH (110.1%), p-IκB-a (56.8%), and p-NF-κB (57.7%) protein levels.

CONCLUSIONS

RosA has the potential to treat myocardial I/R injury with potential application in the clinic.

Ubiquitin-Specific Protease 29 Exacerbates Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Mice

Oxidative stress and apoptosis contribute to the progression of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. Ubiquitin-specific protease 29 (USP29) is abundantly expressed in the brain and plays critical roles in regulating oxidative stress and cell apoptosis. The purpose of the present study is to investigate the role and underlying mechanisms of USP29 in cerebral I/R injury. Neuron-specific USP29 knockout mice were generated and subjected to cerebral I/R surgery. For USP29 overexpression, mice were stereotactically injected with the adenoassociated virus serotype 9 vectors carrying USP29 for 4 weeks before cerebral I/R. And primary cortical neurons were isolated and exposed to oxygen glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R) stimulation to imitate cerebral I/R injury in vitro. USP29 expression was elevated in the brain and primary cortical neurons upon I/R injury. Neuron-specific USP29 knockout significantly diminished, whereas USP29 overexpression aggravated cerebral I/R-induced oxidative stress, apoptosis, and neurological dysfunction in mice. In addition, OGD/R-induced oxidative stress and neuronal apoptosis were also attenuated by USP29 silence but exacerbated by USP29 overexpression in vitro. Mechanistically, neuronal USP29 enhanced p53/miR-34a-mediated silent information regulator 1 downregulation and then promoted the acetylation and suppression of brain and muscle ARNT-like protein, thereby aggravating oxidative stress and apoptosis upon cerebral I/R injury. Our findings for the first time identify that USP29 upregulation during cerebral I/R may contribute to oxidative stress, neuronal apoptosis, and the progression of cerebral I/R injury and that inhibition of USP29 may help to develop novel therapeutic strategies to treat cerebral I/R injury.

The function and mechanism of microRNA-92a-3p in lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury

OBJECTIVES

Sepsis-associated acute lung injury (ALI) is a clinically severe respiratory disorder and remains the leading cause of multiple organ failure and mortality. Herein, we used lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to generate sepsis-induced ALI and try to explore the role and mechanism of microRNA-92a-3p (miR-92a-3p) in this process.

METHODS

Mice were intravenously injected with miR-92a-3p agomir, antagomir and negative controls for 3 consecutive days and then were intratracheally instillated by LPS (5 mg/kg) for 12 h. To knock down the endogenous A-kinase anchoring protein 1 (AKAP1), mice were intratracheally injected with recombinant adenovirus carrying the short hairpin RNA targeting AKAP1 (shAkap1) at 1 week before LPS administration.

RESULTS

miR-92a-3p level was significantly upregulated in the lungs by LPS injection. miR-92a-3p antagomir reduced LPS-induced intrapulmonary inflammation and oxidative stress, thereby preventing pulmonary injury and dysfunction. In contrast, miR-92a-3p agomir aggravated LPS-induced intrapulmonary inflammation, oxidative stress, pulmonary injury and dysfunction. Moreover, we reported that AKAP1 upregulation was required for the beneficial effects of miR-92a-3p antagomir, and that AKAP1 knockdown completely abolished the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capacities of miR-92a-3p antagomir.

CONCLUSION

Our data identify that miR-92a-3p modulates LPS-induced intrapulmonary inflammation, oxidative stress and ALI via AKAP1 in mice.

Doxorubicin nanomedicine based on ginsenoside Rg1 with alleviated cardiotoxicity and enhanced antitumor activity

Aim: The authors aimed to develop Dox@Rg1 nanoparticles with decreased cardiotoxicity to expand their application in cancer. Materials & methods: Dox@Rg1 nanoparticles were developed by encapsulating doxorubicin (Dox) in a self-assembled Rg1. The antitumor effect of the nanoparticles was estimated using 4T1 tumor-bearing mice and the protective effect on the heart was investigated in vitro and in vivo. Results: Different from Dox, the Dox@Rg1 nanoparticles induced increased cytotoxicity to tumor cells, which was decreased in cardiomyocytes by the inhibition of apoptosis. The study in vivo revealed that the Dox@Rg1 nanoparticles presented a perfect tumor-targeting ability and improved antitumor effects. Conclusion: Dox@Rg1 nanoparticles could enhance the antitumor effects and decrease the cardiotoxicity of Dox.

miR‑351‑5p aggravates lipopolysaccharide‑induced acute lung injury via inhibiting AMPK

Inflammation and oxidative stress have indispensable roles in the development of acute lung injury (ALI). MicroRNA (miRNA/miR)‑351‑5p was initially identified as a myogenesis‑associated miRNA; however, its role in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‑induced ALI remains unclear. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role and potential mechanisms of miR‑351‑5p in ALI. ALI was induced through a single intratracheal injection of LPS for 12 h, and miR‑351‑5p agomir, antagomir or their corresponding negative controls were injected into the tail vein before LPS stimulation. Compound C, 2',5'‑dideoxyadenosine and H89 were used to inhibit AMP‑activated protein kinase (AMPK), adenylate cyclase and protein kinase A (PKA), respectively. miR‑351‑5p levels in the lungs were significantly increased in response to LPS injection. miR‑351‑5p antagomir alleviated, while miR‑351‑5p agomir aggravated LPS‑induced oxidative stress and inflammation in the lungs. The present results also demonstrated that miR‑351‑5p antagomir attenuated LPS‑induced ALI via activating AMPK, and that the cAMP/PKA axis was required for the activation of AMPK by the miR‑351‑5p antagomir. In conclusion, the present study indicated that miR‑351‑5p aggravated LPS‑induced ALI via inhibiting AMPK, suggesting that targeting miR‑351‑5p may help to develop efficient therapeutic approaches for treating ALI.

Fibronectin type III domain-containing 5 in cardiovascular and metabolic diseases: a promising biomarker and therapeutic target

Cardiovascular and metabolic diseases are the leading causes of death and disability worldwide and impose a tremendous socioeconomic burden on individuals as well as the healthcare system. Fibronectin type III domain-containing 5 (FNDC5) is a widely distributed transmembrane glycoprotein that can be proteolytically cleaved and secreted as irisin to regulate glycolipid metabolism and cardiovascular homeostasis. In this review, we present the current knowledge on the predictive and therapeutic role of FNDC5 in a variety of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, such as hypertension, atherosclerosis, ischemic heart disease, arrhythmia, metabolic cardiomyopathy, cardiac remodeling, heart failure, diabetes mellitus, and obesity.

MicroRNA-23a-5p Is Involved in the Regulation of Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Acute Lung Injury by Targeting HSP20/ASK1

Inflammation and oxidative stress contribute to the progression of acute lung injury (ALI). MicroRNA-23a-5p (miR-23a-5p) has been reported to regulate inflammation and oxidative stress; however, its role in ALI is still poorly elucidated. Mice were intravenously treated with the miR-23a-5p antagomir, agomir, or the negative controls for 3 consecutive days and then received a single intratracheal injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 5 mg/kg) to induce ALI. Pulmonary function, bronchoalveolar lavage fluids (BALFs), arterial blood gas, and molecular biomarkers associated with inflammation and oxidative stress were analyzed. In addition, murine peritoneal macrophages were isolated and treated with LPS to verify the role of miR-23a-5p in vitro. We detected an elevation of miR-23a-5p expression in the lungs from ALI mice. The miR-23a-5p antagomir was prevented, whereas the miR-23a-5p agomir aggravated inflammation, oxidative stress, lung tissue injury, and pulmonary dysfunction in LPS-treated mice. Besides, the miR-23a-5p antagomir also reduced the productions of proinflammatory cytokines and free radicals in LPS-treated primary macrophages, which were further augmented in cells following the miR-23a-5p agomir treatment. Additional findings demonstrated that the miR-23a-5p agomir exacerbated LPS-induced ALI via activating apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1), and that pharmacological or genetic inhibition of ASK1 significantly repressed the deleterious effects of the miR-23a-5p agomir. Moreover, we proved that the miR-23a-5p agomir activated ASK1 via directly reducing heat shock protein 20 (HSP20) expression. miR-23a-5p is involved in the regulation of LPS-induced inflammation, oxidative stress, lung tissue injury, and pulmonary dysfunction by targeting HSP20/ASK1, and it is a valuable therapeutic candidate for the treatment of ALI.

MicroRNA-670-3p suppresses ferroptosis of human glioblastoma cells through targeting ACSL4

Glioblastoma is one of the most frequent malignant tumors derived from the brain in adults with very poor prognosis. Ferroptosis is implicated in the initiation and progression of various tumors, including the glioblastoma. The present study aims to investigate the function of microRNA (miR)-670-3p in glioblastoma, and tries to demonstrate whether ferroptosis is involved in this process. Human glioblastoma cell lines, U87MG and A172, were transfected with the inhibitor, mimic and matched negative controls of miR-670-3p to manipulate intracellular miR-670-3p level. To validate the involvement of ferroptosis in miR-670-3p inhibitor-mediated tumor suppressive effects, ferrostain-1 and liproxstatin-1 were used to inhibit ferroptosis in the presence of miR-670-3p inhibitor. In addition, the small interfering RNA against acyl-CoA synthase long chain family member 4 (ACSL4) was used to knock down endogenous ACSL4 expression. To validate the combined effects between miR-670-3p inhibitor and temozolomide (TMZ), cells were pretreated with TMZ and then transfected with or without miR-670-3p inhibitor. miR-670-3p level was elevated in human glioblastoma, but decreased upon ferroptotic stimulation. miR-670-3p inhibitor suppressed, while miR-670-3p mimic promoted glioblastoma cell growth through modulating ferroptosis. Mechanistically, ACSL4 was required for the regulation on ferroptosis and growth of glioblastoma cells by miR-670-3p. Moreover, U87MG and A172 cells treated with miR-670-3p inhibitor showed an increased chemosensitivity to TMZ. We prove that miR-670-3p suppresses ferroptosis of human glioblastoma cells through targeting ACSL4, and that inhibiting miR-670-3p can be an alternative, at least adjuvant strategy to treat glioblastoma.

MicroRNA-214-5p aggravates sepsis-related acute kidney injury in mice

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a devastating comorbidity in sepsis and correlates with a very poor prognosis and increased mortality. Currently, we use lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to establish sepsis-related AKI and try to demonstrate the pathophysiological role of microRNA-214-5p (miR-214-5p) in this process. Mice were intravenously injected with the miR-214-5p agomir, antagomir or negative controls for three consecutive days and then received a single intraperitoneal injection of LPS (10 mg/kg) for 24 h to induce AKI. Besides, the Boston University mouse proximal tubular cell lines were stimulated with LPS (10 μg/ml) for 8 h to investigate the role of miR-214-5p in vitro. To inhibit adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), compound C (CpC) was used in vivo. For glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) silence, cells were transfected with the small interfering RNA against GLP-1R. miR-214-5p level was upregulated in LPS-treated kidneys and proximal tubular cell lines. The miR-214-5p antagomir reduced LPS-induced renal inflammation and oxidative stress, thereby preventing renal damage and dysfunction. In contrast, the miR-214-5p agomir aggravated LPS-induced inflammation, oxidative stress and AKI in vivo and in vitro. Mechanistically, we found that the miR-214-5p antagomir prevented septic AKI via activating AMPK and that CpC treatment completely abrogated its renoprotective effect in mice. Further detection showed that miR-214-5p directly bound to the 3'-untranslational region of GLP-1R to inhibit GLP-1R/AMPK axis. Our data identify miR-214-5p as a promising therapeutic candidate to treat sepsis-related AKI.

MicroRNA-302a-3p induces ferroptosis of non-small cell lung cancer cells via targeting ferroportin

Ferroptosis is a newly described regulated form of cell death that contributes to the progression of non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLCs). MicroRNA-302a-3p (miR-302a-3p) plays critical roles in the tumorigenicity of different cancers; however, its function and underlying mechanism in ferroptosis and NSCLCs remain unclear. Human NSCLCs cells were incubated with miR-302a-3pmimic or inhibitor in the presence or absence of erastin or RSL3. Cell viability, colony numbers, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) releases, lipid peroxidation and intracellular iron level were measured. Besides, the synergistic effects of cisplatin and paclitaxel with miR-302a-3p were determined. miR-302a-3p level was reduced in human NSCLCs cells and tissues. ThemiR-302a-3p mimic induced lipid peroxidation, iron overload and ferroptosis, thereby inhibiting cell growth and colony formation of NSCLCs cells. Conversely, the miR-302a-3p inhibitor block ederastin- or RSL3-related ferroptosis and tumor suppression. Additionally, we found that miR-302a-3p directly bound to the 3'-untranslational region of ferroportin to decrease its protein expression, and that ferroportin overexpression significantly prevented miR-302a-3p mimic-induced ferroptosis and tumor inhibition. Moreover, the miR-302a-3p mimic sensitized NSCLCs cells to cisplatin and paclitaxel chemotherapy. miR-302a-3p functions as a tumor inhibitor, at least partly, via targeting ferroportin to induce ferroptosis of NSCLCs.

MicroRNA-762 Modulates Lipopolysaccharide-induced Acute Lung Injury via SIRT7

Background: Inflammation and oxidative stress contribute to the pathogenesis of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute lung injury (ALI). MicroRNA-762 (miR-762) has been implicated in the progression of inflammation and oxidative stress; however, its role in ALI remains unclear. In this study, we aim to investigate the role and underlying mechanisms of miR-762 in LPS-induced ALI. Methods: Mice were intravenously injected with miR-762 antagomir, agomir or the negative controls for 3 consecutive days and then received a single intratracheal instillation of LPS (5 mg/kg) for 12 h to establish ALI model. Adenoviral vectors were used to knock down the endogenous SIRT7 expression. Results: An increased miR-762 expression was detected in LPS-treated lungs. miR-762 antagomir significantly reduced inflammation, oxidative stress and ALI in mice, while the mice with miR-762 agomir treatment exhibited a deleterious phenotype. Besides, we found that SIRT7 upregulation was essential for the pulmonoprotective effects of miR-762 antagomir, and that SIRT7 silence completely abolished the anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant capacities of miR-762 antagomir. Conclusion: miR-762 is implicated in the pathogenesis of LPS-induced ALI via modulating inflammation and oxidative stress, which depends on its regulation of SIRT7 expression. It might be a valuable therapeutic target for the treatment of ALI.

Dioscin and diosgenin: Insights into their potential protective effects in cardiac diseases

BACKGROUND AND ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Dioscin and diosgenin derived from plants of the genus Dioscoreaceae such as D. nipponica and D. panthaica Prain et Burk. Were utilized as the main active ingredients of traditional herbal medicinal products for coronary heart disease in the former Soviet Union and China since 1960s. A growing number of research showed that dioscin and diosgenin have a wide range of pharmacological activities in heart diseases.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To summarize the evidence of the effectiveness of dioscin and diosgenin in cardiac diseases, and to provide a basis and reference for future research into their clinical applications and drug development in the field of cardiac disease.

METHODS

Literatures in this review were searched in PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and Web of Science. All eligible studies are analyzed and summarized in this review.

RESULTS

The pharmacological activities and therapeutic potentials of dioscin and diosgenin in cardiac diseases are similar, can effectively improve hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, arrhythmia, myocardial I/R injury and cardiotoxicity caused by doxorubicin. But the bioavailability of dioscin and diosgenin may be too low as a result of poor absorption and slow metabolism, which hinders their development and utilization.

CONCLUSION

Dioscin and diosgenin need further in-depth experimental research, clinical transformation and structural modification or research of new preparations before they can be expected to be developed into new therapeutic drugs in the field of cardiac disease.

MicroRNA-30d-5p ameliorates lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury via activating AMPKα

OBJECTIVES

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a devastating lung disease characterized by uncontrolled pulmonary inflammation and oxidative stress. Currently, no effective therapeutic strategies are available for ALI and its prognosis remains poor. The present study aims to investigate the role and potential mechanism of microRNA-30d-5p (miR-30d-5p) in the progression of ALI.

METHODS

Mice were intravenously treated with miR-30d-5p agomir, antagomir or their respective controls for 3 consecutive days and then were exposed to a single intratracheal injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) for 12 h at a dosage of 5 mg/kg to induce ALI. To inhibit adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase α (AMPKα) or phosphodiesterase 4 D (PDE4D), compound C (CpC) and rolipram were used.

RESULTS

miR-30d-5p expression in the lungs was significantly inhibited by LPS treatment. miR-30d-5p agomir significantly alleviated, while miR-30d-5p antagomir aggravated pulmonary inflammation, oxidative damage, and dysfunction in ALI mice. Besides, we found that miR-30d-5p agomir ameliorated LPS-induced ALI via activating AMPKα and that the inhibition of AMPKα by CpC completely abolished these beneficial effects of miR-30d-5p agomir. Further findings validated that PDE4D downregulation was required for the activation of AMPKα by miR-30d-5p agomir.

CONCLUSION

miR-30d-5p ameliorates LPS-induced ALI via activating AMPKα and it is a valuable therapeutic candidate in the treatment of ALI.

MicroRNA-328-3p facilitates the progression of gastric cancer via KEAP1/NRF2 axis

Gastric cancer is a common lethal malignancy and causes great cancer-related mortality worldwide. MicroRNA (miR)-328-3p is implicated in the progression of various human cancers; however, its role and mechanism in the progression of gastric cancer remain unclear.Human gastric cancer cells were incubated with miR-328-3p mimic, inhibitor or the matched negative control. Cell viability, colony formation, migrative and invasive capacity, cell apoptosis and oxidative stress were measured. To clarify the involvement of nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2 (NRF2) and kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1), small interfering RNA was used. miR-328-3p was upregulated in human gastric cancer cells and tissues, and its level positively correlated with the progression of gastric cancer. miR-328-3p promoted cell viability, colony formation, migration and invasion, thereby facilitating the progression of gastric cancer. miR-328-3p mimic reduced, while miR-328-3p inhibitor increased apoptosis and oxidative stress of human gastric cancer cells. Mechanistically, miR-328-3p upregulated NRF2 via targeting KEAP1to attenuate excessive free radical production and cell apoptosis. miR-328-3p functions as an oncogenic gene and inhibiting miR-328-3p may help to develop novel therapeutic strategies of human gastric cancer.

Osteocrin, a novel myokine, prevents diabetic cardiomyopathy via restoring proteasomal activity

Proteasomal activity is compromised in diabetic hearts that contributes to proteotoxic stresses and cardiac dysfunction. Osteocrin (OSTN) acts as a novel exercise-responsive myokine and is implicated in various cardiac diseases. Herein, we aim to investigate the role and underlying molecular basis of OSTN in diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM). Mice received a single intravenous injection of the cardiotrophic adeno-associated virus serotype 9 to overexpress OSTN in the heart and then were exposed to intraperitoneal injections of streptozotocin (STZ, 50 mg/kg) for consecutive 5 days to generate diabetic models. Neonatal rat cardiomyocytes were isolated and stimulated with high glucose to verify the role of OSTN in vitro. OSTN expression was reduced by protein kinase B/forkhead box O1 dephosphorylation in diabetic hearts, while its overexpression significantly attenuated cardiac injury and dysfunction in mice with STZ treatment. Besides, OSTN incubation prevented, whereas OSTN silence aggravated cardiomyocyte apoptosis and injury upon hyperglycemic stimulation in vitro. Mechanistically, OSTN treatment restored protein kinase G (PKG)-dependent proteasomal function, and PKG or proteasome inhibition abrogated the protective effects of OSTN in vivo and in vitro. Furthermore, OSTN replenishment was sufficient to prevent the progression of pre-established DCM and had synergistic cardioprotection with sildenafil. OSTN protects against DCM via restoring PKG-dependent proteasomal activity and it is a promising therapeutic target to treat DCM.

Melissa officinalis L. as a Nutritional Strategy for Cardioprotection

This review aimed to provide a summary on the traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacological activities in the cardiovascular system and cardiotoxicity of Melissa officinalis (MO), with the special emphasis on the protective mechanisms in different cardiovascular pathologies. MO is a perennial aromatic herb commonly known as lemon balm, honey balm, or bee balm, which belongs to Lamiaceae family. Active components are mainly located in the leaves or essential oil and include volatile compounds, terpenoid (monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, triterpenes), and polyphenolic compounds [rosmarinic acid (RA), caffeic acid, protocatechuic acid, quercitrin, rhamnocitrin, luteolin]. For centuries, MO has been traditionally used as a remedy for memory, cognition, anxiety, depression, and heart palpitations. Up until now, several beneficial cardiovascular effects of MO, in the form of extracts (aqueous, alcoholic, and hydroalcoholic), essential oil, and isolated compounds, have been confirmed in preclinical animal studies, such as antiarrhythmogenic, negative chronotropic and dromotropic, hypotensive, vasorelaxant, and infarct size-reducing effects. Nonetheless, MO effects on heart palpitations are the only ones confirmed in human subjects. The main mechanisms proposed for the cardiovascular effects of this plant are antioxidant free radical-scavenging properties of MO polyphenols, amelioration of oxidative stress, anti-inflammatory effects, activation of M2 and antagonism of β1 receptors in the heart, blockage of voltage-dependent Ca²⁺ channels, stimulation of endothelial nitric oxide synthesis, prevention of fibrotic changes, etc. Additionally, the main active ingredient of MO-RA, per se, has shown substantial cardiovascular effects. Because of the vastness of encouraging data from animal studies, this plant, as well as the main ingredient RA, should be considered and investigated further as a tool for cardioprotection and adjuvant therapy in patients suffering from cardiovascular diseases.

Deubiquitinase USP35 modulates ferroptosis in lung cancer via targeting ferroportin

BACKGROUND

Ferroptosis is essential to regulate tumor growth and serves as a promising therapeutic target to lung cancer. Ubiquitin-specific protease 35 (USP35) belongs to the deubiquitinases family that is associated with cell proliferation and mitosis. In this research, we aim to elucidate the potential role and molecular basis of USP35 in lung cancer.

METHODS

Lung cancer cells were infected with lentiviral vectors to silence or overexpress USP35. Cell viability, colony formation, lipid reactive oxygen species production, intracellular iron metabolism, and other ferroptotic markers were detected. The role of USP35 on ferroptosis and tumor progression were also tested in mouse tumor xenograft models in vivo.

RESULTS

USP35 was abundant in human lung cancer tissues and cell lines. USP35 knockdown promoted ferroptosis, and inhibited cell growth, colony formation, and tumor progression in lung cancer cells. USP35 overexpression did not affect tumorigenesis and ferroptosis under basal conditions, but reduced erastin/RSL3-triggered iron disturbance and ferroptosis, thereby facilitating lung cancer cell growth and tumor progression. Further studies determined that USP35 directly interacted with ferroportin (FPN) and functioned as a deubiquitinase to maintain its protein stability. More importantly, we observed that USP35 knockdown sensitized lung cancer cells to cisplatin and paclitaxel chemotherapy.

CONCLUSION

USP35 modulates ferroptosis in lung cancer via targeting FPN, and it is a promising therapeutic target to lung cancer.

Matrine attenuates pathological cardiac fibrosis via RPS5/p38 in mice

Pathological cardiac fibrosis is a common feature in multiple cardiovascular diseases that contributes to the occurrence of heart failure and life-threatening arrhythmias. Our previous study demonstrated that matrine could attenuate doxorubicin-induced oxidative stress and cardiomyocyte apoptosis. In this study, we investigated the effect of matrine on cardiac fibrosis. Mice received aortic banding (AB) operation or continuous injection of isoprenaline (ISO) to generate pathological cardiac fibrosis and then were exposed to matrine lavage (200 mg·kg-1·d-1) or an equal volume of vehicle as the control. We found that matrine lavage significantly attenuated AB or ISO-induced fibrotic remodeling and cardiac dysfunction. We also showed that matrine (200 μmol/L) significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration, collagen production, and phenotypic transdifferentiation of cardiac fibroblasts. Mechanistically, matrine suppressed p38 activation in vivo and in vitro, and overexpression of constitutively active p38 completely abolished the protective effects of matrine. We also demonstrated that ribosomal protein S5 (RPS5) upregulation was responsible for matrine-mediated inhibition on p38 and fibrogenesis. More importantly, matrine was capable of ameliorating preexisting cardiac fibrosis in mice. In conclusion, matrine treatment attenuates cardiac fibrosis by regulating RPS5/p38 signaling in mice, and it might be a promising therapeutic agent for treating pathological cardiac fibrosis.

Elucidation of the mechanism of action of pinitol against pressure overload-induced cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis in an animal model of aortic stenosis

The long-term imposition of pressure overload on the cardiac tissue causes left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and cardiac fibrosis. Pinitol has been reported to possess antioxidant potential. The aim was to evaluate the efficacy of pinitol against pressure overload-induced cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis in the aortic stenosis (AS) rat model. Cardiac hypertrophy was produced in Sprague-Dawley rats by abdominal aortic constriction and treated with lisinopril (15 mg/kg) or pinitol (5, 10, and 20 mg/kg). Pressure overload-induced alterations in hemodynamic and left ventricular function tests, cardiac SOD, GSH, MDA, NO, Na-K-ATPase, and mitochondrial complex enzyme levels were significantly attenuated by pinitol. The upregulated mRNA expressions of cardiac ANP, BNP, cTn-I, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, Bax, Caspase-3, collagen-I, and cardiac apoptosis were markedly downregulated by pinitol. In conclusion, pinitol ameliorated pressure overload-induced LVH and fibrosis via its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antifibrotic, and antiapoptotic potential in experimental AS.

Growth differentiation factor 11 mitigates cardiac radiotoxicity via activating AMPKα

Cardiac radiotoxicity largely impedes the therapeutic benefits of radiotherapy to malignancies. Growth differentiation factor 11 (GDF11) is implicated in the pathogenesis of cardiac diseases under different pathological conditions. This study aims to investigate the role and underlying mechanisms of GDF11 on cardiac radiotoxicity. Mice were injected with cardiotropic adeno-associated virus 9 carrying the full-length mouse GDF11 gene or negative control under a cTnT promoter from the tail vein, and then received a single dose of 20 Gray (Gy) whole-heart irradiation (WHI) for 16 weeks to imitate cardiac radiotoxicity. Compound C (CC, 20 mg/kg) was intraperitoneally injected every two days at 1 week before WHI stimulation to inhibit 5' AMP-activated protein kinase α (AMPKα). Cardiac GDF11 expression was significantly suppressed at both the protein and mRNA levels. GDF11 overexpression decreased oxidative stress, apoptosis, and fibrosis in radiated hearts, thereby mitigating cardiac radiotoxicity, and dysfunction. Further detection revealed that GDF11 activated AMPKα to reduce radiation-induced oxidative damage and that AMPKα inhibition by CC offset the cardioprotective effects by GDF11. GDF11 mitigates cardiac radiotoxicity via activating AMPKα and it is a promising candidate to treat cardiac radiotoxicity.

Endothelial ERG alleviates cardiac fibrosis via blocking endothelin-1-dependent paracrine mechanism

Cardiac endothelium communicates closely with adjacent cardiac cells by multiple cytokines and plays critical roles in regulating fibroblasts proliferation, activation, and collagen synthesis during cardiac fibrosis. E26 transformation-specific (ETS)-related gene (ERG) belongs to the ETS transcriptional factor family and is required for endothelial cells (ECs) homeostasis and cardiac development. This study aims at investigating the potential role and molecular basis of ERG in fibrotic remodeling within the adult heart. We observed that ERG was abundant in murine hearts, especially in cardiac ECs, but decreased during cardiac fibrosis. ERG knockdown within murine hearts caused spontaneously cardiac fibrosis and dysfunction, accompanied by the activation of multiple Smad-dependent and independent pathways. However, the direct silence of ERG in cardiac fibroblasts did not affect the expression of fibrotic markers. Intriguingly, ERG knockdown in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) promoted the secretion of endothelin-1 (ET-1), which subsequently accelerated the proliferation, phenotypic transition, and collagen synthesis of cardiac fibroblasts in a paracrine manner. Suppressing ET-1 with either a neutralizing antibody or a receptor blocker abolished ERG knockdown-mediated deleterious effect in vivo and in vitro. This pro-fibrotic effect was also negated by RGD (Arg-Gly-Asp)-peptide magnetic nanoparticles target delivery of ET-1 small interfering RNA to ECs in mice. More importantly, we proved that endothelial ERG overexpression notably prevented pressure overload-induced cardiac fibrosis. Collectively, endothelial ERG alleviates cardiac fibrosis via blocking ET-1-dependent paracrine mechanism and it functions as a candidate for treating cardiac fibrosis. • ERG is abundant in murine hearts, especially in cardiac ECs, but decreased during fibrotic remodeling. • ERG knockdown causes spontaneously cardiac fibrosis and dysfunction. • ERG silence in HUVECs promotes the secretion of endothelin-1, which in turn activates cardiac fibroblasts in a paracrine manner. • Endothelial ERG overexpression prevents pressure overload-induced cardiac fibrosis.

MicroRNA-499-5p targets SIRT1 to aggravate lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a life-threatening disease without effective and specific therapeutic strategies except the life-supporting treatments. Inflammation and oxidative stress are essential for the progression of ALI. MicroRNA-499-5p (miR-499-5p) has multiple pathophysiological actions; however, its function and mechanisms in ALI remain elusive. Mice were intravenously injected with miR-499-5p agomir, antagomir or the negative controls for 3 consecutive days and then received a single intratracheal injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 5 mg/kg) to generate ALI model. Twenty four hours prior to LPS injection, EX-527 (1 mg/kg) was applied to inhibit SIRT1 activity. We identified a significant upregulation of miR-499-5p in LPS-treated lung tissues. miR-499-5p antagomir prevented, while miR-499-5p agomir promoted inflammation, oxidative stress and ALI in LPS-treated mice. Further studies indicated that miR-499-5p directly bound to the 3'-untranslated region of Sirtuin 1 (Sirt1) and decreased its protein level. SIRT1 inhibition blocked miR-499-5p antagomir-mediated pulmonary protection against LPS injury. miR-499-5p targets SIRT1 to aggravate LPS-induced ALI and it is a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of ALI.

MicroRNA-217 modulates inflammation, oxidative stress, and lung injury in septic mice via SIRT1

Inflammation and oxidative stress contribute to the initiation and progression of septic lung injury. MicroRNA-217 (miR-217) is proved to be involved in controlling inflammatory response and oxidative stress, yet its role and underlying mechanism in the pathogenesis of septic lung injury remain elusive. Caecal ligation and puncture surgery were performed to generate sepsis in vivo and mice were kept for 12 h to imitate septic lung injury. Next, mice were administrated with miR-217 antagomir or agomir to decrease or increase the expression of miR-217 in lung tissue. Moreover, primary peritoneal macrophages were separated and incubated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to further verify the role of miR-217 in vitro. miR-217 was upregulated in septic lungs and primary macrophages. miR-217 antagomir alleviated, whereas miR-217 agomir aggravated inflammation and oxidative stress in septic mice and LPS-stimulated macrophages. Further detection identified SIRT1 was responsible for miR-217 antagomir-mediated anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects, and SIRT1 inhibition abolished the beneficial effects of miR-217 antagomir in vivo and in vitro. Our data defined miR-217 as a therapeutic target for treating septic lung injury.

Cathepsin B aggravated doxorubicin‑induced myocardial injury via NF‑κB signalling

Myocyte apoptosis and oxidative stress key critical roles in the process of doxorubicin (DOX)-induced cardiotoxicity. However, how apoptosis and oxidative stress arise in DOX-induced heart injury remains largely unknown. Cathepsin B (CTSB) is a typical lysosomal cysteine protease that is associated with apoptosis, inflammatory responses, oxidative stress and autophagy. The present study aimed to investigate the role of CTSB in DOX-induced heart injury and its potential mechanism. H9C2 cells were infected with adenovirus or transfected with small interfering RNA to overexpress or knock down CTSB, respectively, and then stimulated with DOX. DOX induced increased CTSB expression levels in H9C2 cells. DOX-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis and oxidative stress were attenuated by CTSB knockdown but aggravated by CTSB overexpression in vitro. Mechanistically, the present study showed that CTSB activated the NF-κB pathway in response to DOX. In summary, CTSB aggravated DOX-induced H9C2 cell apoptosis and oxidative stress via NF-κB signalling. CTSB constitutes a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of DOX-induced cardiotoxicity.

[miR-133b inhibits myocardial ischemia-reperfusion-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis and accumulation of reactive oxygen species in rats by targeting YES1]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of miR-133b on cardiomyocyte apoptosis induced by myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) and explore the mechanism.

METHODS

Thirty-six adult SD rats were randomized into sham-operated group, I/R group, AdmiR-NC group and AdmiR-133b group, and rat models of myocardial I/R were established in the latter 3 groups with myocardial injections of saline or recombinant adenoviruses in the left ventricle. The expression of MiR-133b was detected using RT-qPCR, and cardiac function of the rats was determined using FDP 1 HRV and BRS analysis system. Serum CK-MB and cTnI levels were determined by ELISA, myocardial injury was evaluated with HE staining, cardiomocyte apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry, and ROS content was determined using a DCFH-DA probe. In the in vitro experiment, H9C2 myocardial cells with hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) treatment were transfected with Mir-NC or MiR-133b mimic, and the cellular expression of MiR-133b, cell apoptosis, and ROS content were determined. Dual luciferase reporter assay was performed to verify the targeting relationship between miR-133b and YES1. The effects of pc-YES1 or miR-133b mimic transfection on YES1 expression, apoptosis, and ROS content in H9C2 cells were evaluated.

RESULTS

Compared with those in I/R group, miR-133b expression was obviously up-regulated, LVEDP, cTnI and CK-MB levels were significantly decreased, and LVSP, +dp/dt, -dp/dt, HR and CF levels were increased in admiR-133b group (P < 0.01). The rats in admiR-133b group showed obviously reduced pathological damage, cell apoptosis and ROS content compared with those in I/ R group (P < 0.01). In H9C2 cells exposed to H/R, transfection with miR-133b mimic significantly up-regulated miR-133b expression and decreased cell apoptosis and ROS content (P < 0.01). The results of dual luciferase reporter assay suggested a direct targeting relationship between miR-133b and YES1, and MiR-133b mimic transfection significantly down-regulated YES1 protein expression in cells with H/R exposure (P < 0.01). Co-transfection with pc-YES1 reversed the effect of miR-133b overexpression on myocardial cell apoptosis and ROS accumulation.

CONCLUSIONS

miR-133b can inhibit I/R-induced myocardial cell apoptosis and ROS accumulation by targeting YES1 to reduce myocardial I/R injury in rats.

Possible Susceptibility Genes for Intervention against Chemotherapy-Induced Cardiotoxicity

Recent therapeutic advances have significantly improved the short- and long-term survival rates in patients with heart disease and cancer. Survival in cancer patients may, however, be accompanied by disadvantages, namely, increased rates of cardiovascular events. Chemotherapy-related cardiac dysfunction is an important side effect of anticancer therapy. While advances in cancer treatment have increased patient survival, treatments are associated with cardiovascular complications, including heart failure (HF), arrhythmias, cardiac ischemia, valve disease, pericarditis, and fibrosis of the pericardium and myocardium. The molecular mechanisms of cardiotoxicity caused by cancer treatment have not yet been elucidated, and they may be both varied and complex. By identifying the functional genetic variations responsible for this toxicity, we may be able to improve our understanding of the potential mechanisms and pathways of treatment, paving the way for the development of new therapies to target these toxicities. Data from studies on genetic defects and pharmacological interventions have suggested that many molecules, primarily those regulating oxidative stress, inflammation, autophagy, apoptosis, and metabolism, contribute to the pathogenesis of cardiotoxicity induced by cancer treatment. Here, we review the progress of genetic research in illuminating the molecular mechanisms of cancer treatment-mediated cardiotoxicity and provide insights for the research and development of new therapies to treat or even prevent cardiotoxicity in patients undergoing cancer treatment. The current evidence is not clear about the role of pharmacogenomic screening of susceptible genes. Further studies need to done in chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity.

MicroRNA-31-5p Exacerbates Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Acute Lung Injury via Inactivating Cab39/AMPKα Pathway

Acute lung injury (ALI) and the subsequent acute respiratory distress syndrome remain devastating diseases with high mortality rates and poor prognoses among patients in intensive care units. The present study is aimed at investigating the role and underlying mechanisms of microRNA-31-5p (miR-31-5p) on lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) induced ALI. Mice were pretreated with miR-31-5p agomir, antagomir, and their negative controls at indicated doses for 3 consecutive days, and then they received a single intratracheal injection of LPS (5 mg/kg) for 12 h to induce ALI. MH-S murine alveolar macrophage cell lines were cultured to further verify the role of miR-31-5p in vitro. For AMP-activated protein kinase α (AMPKα) and calcium-binding protein 39 (Cab39) inhibition, compound C or lentiviral vectors were used in vivo and in vitro. We observed an upregulation of miR-31-5p in lung tissue upon LPS injection. miR-31-5p antagomir alleviated, while miR-31-5p agomir exacerbated LPS-induced inflammation, oxidative damage, and pulmonary dysfunction in vivo and in vitro. Mechanistically, miR-31-5p antagomir activated AMPKα to exert the protective effects that were abrogated by AMPKα inhibition. Further studies revealed that Cab39 was required for AMPKα activation and pulmonary protection by miR-31-5p antagomir. We provide the evidence that endogenous miR-31-5p is a key pathogenic factor for inflammation and oxidative damage during LPS-induced ALI, which is related to Cab39-dependent inhibition of AMPKα.

Meteorin-like protein attenuates doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity via activating cAMP/PKA/SIRT1 pathway

Meteorin-like (METRNL) protein is a newly identified myokine that functions to modulate energy expenditure and inflammation in adipose tissue. Herein, we aim to investigate the potential role and molecular basis of METRNL in doxorubicin (DOX)-induced cardiotoxicity. METRNL was found to be abundantly expressed in cardiac muscle under physiological conditions that was decreased upon DOX exposure. Cardiac-specific overexpression of METRNL by adeno-associated virus serotype 9 markedly improved oxidative stress, apoptosis, cardiac dysfunction and survival status in DOX-treated mice. Conversely, knocking down endogenous METRNL by an intramyocardial injection of adenovirus exacerbated DOX-induced cardiotoxicity and death. Meanwhile, METRNL overexpression attenuated, while METRNL silence promoted oxidative damage and apoptosis in DOX-treated H9C2 cells. Systemic METRNL depletion by a neutralizing antibody aggravated DOX-related cardiac injury and dysfunction in vivo, which were notably alleviated by METRNL overexpression within the cardiomyocytes. Besides, we detected robust METRNL secretion from isolated rodent hearts and cardiomyocytes, but to a less extent in those with DOX treatment. And the beneficial effects of METRNL in H9C2 cells disappeared after the incubation with a METRNL neutralizing antibody. Mechanistically, METRNL activated SIRT1 via the cAMP/PKA pathway, and its antioxidant and antiapoptotic capacities were blocked by SIRT1 deficiency. More importantly, METRNL did not affect the tumor-killing action of DOX in 4T1 breast cancer cells and tumor-bearing mice. Collectively, cardiac-derived METRNL activates SIRT1 via cAMP/PKA signaling axis in an autocrine manner, which ultimately improves DOX-elicited oxidative stress, apoptosis and cardiac dysfunction. Targeting METRNL may provide a novel therapeutic strategy for the prevention of DOX-associated cardiotoxicity.

•

METRNL is abundant in the heart, yet decreased upon DOX treatment.

•

METRNL overexpression improves, while METRNL deficiency exacerbates DOX-induced cardiotoxicity in vivo and in vitro.

•

METRNL activates SIRT1 via cAMP/PKA signaling axis in an autocrine manner.

•

METRNL does not affect the tumor-killing action of DOX in cancer cells.

Resolvin E1 protects against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity by inhibiting oxidative stress, autophagy and apoptosis by targeting AKT/mTOR signaling

Doxorubicin (DOX)-induced cardiotoxicity impairs the quality of life of cancer patients during or after DOX treatment, and it is imperative to explore a novel strategy to address this problem. Resolvin E1 (RvE1) is derived from eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), which has been reported to exert beneficial effects on DOX-induced oxidative stress in cardiomyocytes. This study was designed to investigate whether RvE1 protects against DOX-induced cardiotoxicity, and the underlying mechanism was explored. DOX (20 mg/kg, one injection, i.p.) was used to induce DOX-induced cardiotoxicity in C57BL/6 mice. At 5 days after DOX administration, the effect of RvE1 was assessed by measuring cardiac function, oxidative stress, autophagy and apoptosis in cardiac tissue. We used an AKT inhibitor and rapamycin to investigate the underlying mechanisms. Our results showed that RvE1 inhibited the DOX-induced decrease in body weight and heart weight, the reduction in left ventricular ejection fraction and fractional shortening, and the increase in lactate dehydrogenase, creatine kinase myocardial bound and cardiomyocyte vacuolization. Compared to the control group, the DOX group exhibited increased oxidative stress, autophagy and apoptosis in cardiac tissue, which were alleviated by treatment with RvE1. The AKT/mTOR signaling pathways were responsible for RvE1-mediated regulation of DOX-induced oxidative stress, autophagy and myocardial apoptosis. In conclusion, RvE1 protected against DOX-induced cardiotoxicity via the regulation of AKT/mTOR signaling.

Coumestrol ameliorates doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity via activating AMPKα

Doxorubicin (DOX) acts as the cornerstone in multiple tumour chemotherapy regimens, however, its clinical application is often impeded due to the induction of a severe cardiotoxicity that eventually provokes left ventricular dysfunction and congestive heart failure. Coumestrol (CMT) is a common dietary phytoestrogen with pleiotropic pharmacological effects. The present study aims to investigate the role and mechanism of CMT on DOX-induced cardiotoxicity. Mice were intragastrically administrated with CMT (5 mg/kg/day) for consecutive 2 weeks and then received a single intraperitoneal injection of DOX (15 mg/kg) to mimic the clinical toxic effects after 8-day additional feeding. To verify the role of 5' AMP-activated protein kinase alpha (AMPKα), AMPKα2 global knockout mice were used. H9C2 cells were cultured to further validate the beneficial role of CMT in vitro. CMT administration notably ameliorated oxidative damage, cell apoptosis and cardiac dysfunction in DOX-treated mice. Besides, we observed that DOX-induced reactive oxygen species overproduction and cardiomyocyte apoptosis were also reduced by CMT incubation in H9C2 cells. Mechanistically, CMT activated AMPKα and Ampkα deficiency abolished the beneficial effects of CMT in vivo and in vitro. Finally, we proved that protein kinase A (PKA) was required for CMT-mediated AMPKα activation and cardioprotective effects. CMT activated PKA/AMPKα pathway to alleviate DOX-induced oxidative damage, cell apoptosis and cardiac dysfunction. Our findings provide a promising therapeutic agent for cancer patients receiving anthracycline chemotherapy.

MicroRNA‑375 prevents TGF‑β‑dependent transdifferentiation of lung fibroblasts via the MAP2K6/P38 pathway

Transdifferentiation of lung fibroblasts to myofibroblasts is a crucial pathophysiological process in pulmonary fibrosis. MicroRNA‑375 (miR‑375) was initially identified as a tumor‑suppressive factor, and its expression was negatively associated with the severity of lung cancer; however, its role and potential mechanism in myofibroblast transdifferentiation and pulmonary fibrosis remain unclear. In the present study, human lung fibroblasts were stimulated with transforming growth factor‑β (TGF‑β) to induce myofibroblast transdifferentiation. A mimic and inhibitor of miR‑375, and their negative controls, were used to overexpress or suppress miR‑375 in lung fibroblasts, respectively. The mRNA expression levels of fibrotic markers, and protein expression of α‑smooth muscle actin and periostin, were subsequently detected by reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR and western blotting, to assess myofibroblast transdifferentiation. miR‑375 was markedly upregulated in human lung fibroblasts after TGF‑β stimulation. The miR‑375 mimic alleviated, whereas the miR‑375 inhibitor aggravated TGF‑β‑dependent transdifferentiation of lung fibroblasts. Mechanistically, miR‑375 prevented myofibroblast transdifferentiation and collagen synthesis by blocking the P38 mitogen‑activated protein kinases (P38) pathway, and P38 suppression abrogated the deleterious effect of the miR‑375 inhibitor on myofibroblast transdifferentiation. Furthermore, the present study revealed that mitogen‑activated protein kinase kinase 6 was involved in P38 inactivation by miR‑375. In conclusion, miR‑375 was implicated in modulating TGF‑β‑dependent transdifferentiation of lung fibroblasts, and targeting miR‑375 expression may help to develop therapeutic approaches for treating pulmonary fibrosis.

Phytochemical constituents, biological activities, and health-promoting effects of the genus Origanum

Origanum species are mostly distributed around the Mediterranean, Euro-Siberian, and Iran-Siberian regions. Since time immemorial, the genus has popularly been used in Southern Europe, as well as on the American continent as a spice now known all over the world under the name "oregano" or "pizza-spice." Origanum plants are also employed to prepare bitter tinctures, wines, vermouths, beer, and kvass. The major components of Origanum essential oil are various terpenes, phenols, phenolic acids, and flavonoids with predominant occurrence of carvacrol and thymol (with reasonable amounts of p-cymen and -terpinene) or of terpinene-4-ol, linalool, and sabinene hydrate. Many species of Origanum genus are used to treat kidney, digestive, nervous, and respiratory disorders, spasms, sore throat, diabetes, lean menstruation, hypertension, cold, insomnia, toothache, headache, epilepsy, urinary tract infections, etc. Origanum essential oil showed potent bioactivities owing to its major constituents' carvacrol, thymol, and monoterpenes. Several preclinical studies evidenced its pharmacological potential as antiproliferative or anticancer, antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic, anti-obesity, renoprotective, antiinflammatory, vasoprotective, cardioprotective, antinociceptive, insecticidal, and hepatoprotective properties. Its nanotechnological applications as a promising pharmaceutical in order to enhance the solubility, physicochemical stability, and the accumulation rate of its essential oils have been investigated. However, Origanum has been reported causing angioedema, perioral dermatitis, allergic reaction, inhibition of platelet aggregation, hypoglycemia, and abortion. Conclusive evidences are still required for its clinical applications against human medical conditions. Toxicity analyses and risk assessment will aid to its safe and efficacious application. In addition, elaborate structure-activity studies are needed to explore the potential use of Origanum-derived phytochemicals as promising drug candidates.

Osteocrin attenuates inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and cardiac dysfunction in doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity

Background

Inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis contribute to the evolution of doxorubicin (DOX)‐induced cardiotoxicity. Osteocrin (OSTN) is a novel secretory peptide mainly derived from the bone and skeletal muscle, and plays critical roles in regulating bone growth and physical endurance. Inspiringly, OSTN was also reported to be abundant in the myocardium that functioned as a therapeutic agent against cardiac rupture and congestive heart failure in mice after myocardial infarction. Herein, we investigated the role and potential mechanism of OSTN in DOX‐induced cardiotoxicity.

Methods

Cardiac‐restrict OSTN overexpression was performed by the intravenous injection of a cardiotropic AAV9 vector, and subsequently the mice received 15 mg/kg DOX injection (i.p., once) to induce acute cardiac injury. Besides, H9C2 cell lines were used to assess the possible role of OSTN in vitro by incubating with recombinant human OSTN or small interfering RNA against Ostn (siOstn). To clarify the involvement of protein kinase G (PKG), KT5823 and siPkg were used in vivo and in vitro. Mice were also administrated intraperitoneally with 5 mg/kg DOX weekly for consecutive 3 weeks at a cumulative dose of 15 mg/kg to mimic the cardiotoxic effects upon chronic DOX exposure.

Results

OSTN treatment notably attenuated, whereas OSTN silence exacerbated inflammation, oxidative stress, and cardiomyocyte apoptosis in DOX‐treated H9C2 cells. Besides, cardiac‐restrict OSTN‐overexpressed mice showed an alleviated cardiac injury and malfunction upon DOX injection. Mechanistically, we found that OSTN activated PKG, while PKG inhibition abrogated the beneficial effect of OSTN in vivo and in vitro. As expected, OSTN overexpression also improved cardiac function and survival rate in mice after chronic DOX treatment.

Conclusions

OSTN protects against DOX‐elicited inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and cardiac dysfunction via activating PKG, and cardiac gene therapy with OSTN provides a novel therapeutic strategy against DOX‐induced cardiotoxicity.

Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiomyocyte Death in Drug-Induced Cardiotoxicity

Homeostatic regulation of cardiomyocytes plays a crucial role in maintaining the normal physiological activity of cardiac tissue. Severe cardiotoxicity results in cardiac diseases including but not limited to arrhythmia, myocardial infarction and myocardial hypertrophy. Drug-induced cardiotoxicity limits or forbids further use of the implicated drugs. Such drugs that are currently available in the clinic include anti-tumor drugs (doxorubicin, cisplatin, trastuzumab, etc.), antidiabetic drugs (rosiglitazone and pioglitazone), and an antiviral drug (zidovudine). This review focused on cardiomyocyte death forms and related mechanisms underlying clinical drug-induced cardiotoxicity, including apoptosis, autophagy, necrosis, necroptosis, pryoptosis, and ferroptosis. The key proteins involved in cardiomyocyte death signaling were discussed and evaluated, aiming to provide a theoretical basis and target for the prevention and treatment of drug-induced cardiotoxicity in the clinical practice.

Establishment of hairy root cultures of Salvia bulleyana Diels for production of polyphenolic compounds

This study was to obtain stable transformed roots of Salvia bulleyana using A. rhizogenes strain A4 and then evaluate their phytochemical profile and selected the most productive clone. Our results indicated that the type of explant and medium used for bacterium and explant incubation had an influence on the frequency of hairy root formation. The best response was obtained on leaves infected with bacteria cultivated on YMB medium supplemented with acetosyringone. Of the four selected transformed root clones, after five-week cultivation in Woody Plant (WP) medium, the highest growth indexes were demonstrated for line C1: i.e. 13 for fresh and 15 for dry weight (81.4 and 8.2 g/l fresh and dry weight, respectively). The qualitative analysis of hydromethanolic extracts of hairy roots of S. bulleyana using UPLC-PDA-ESI-MS/MS method showed the presence of 10 polyphenolic compounds including predominant rosmarinic acid (RA), its derivatives (hexoside and methyl rosmarinate), caffeic acid, its derivatives and several salvianolic acids: K, E and F. Their production varied among the four root clones studied; the highest RA (39.6 mg/g dry weight) and total polyphenol (48.9 mg/g dry weight) level were found in the roots of C4 clone. These values were significantly higher than those of the roots of plants grown for several years under field conditions. The transformation of the obtained root cultures was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction using aux1, aux2, rolB, rolC and rolD primers.

FNDC5 promotes paclitaxel sensitivity of non-small cell lung cancers via inhibiting MDR1

Therapeutic benefits and clinical application of paclitaxel for treating non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLCs) are extremely hampered due to the chemoresistance. A recent study found that fibronectin type III domain-containing protein 5 (FNDC5) was downregulated in NSCLCs cells and negatively correlated with the clinicopathological characteristics in patients with NSCLCs. However, the role and potential molecular basis for FNDC5 in paclitaxel sensitivity of NSCLCs remain unclear. Paclitaxel-sensitive or resistant NSCLCs cell lines were exposed to small interfering RNA against FNDC5 (siFndc5) or recombinant irisin in the presence or absence of paclitaxel. NSCLCs cell lines have decreased FNDC5 expression compared with the normal human lung epithelial cells, which was further downregulated in paclitaxel-resistant cells. Irisin treatment suppressed, whereas Fndc5 silence promoted NSCLCs cells proliferation under basal conditions. Besides, we found that FNDC5 increased paclitaxel chemosensitivity in paclitaxel-sensitive or resistant NSCLCs cell lines via downregulating multidrug resistance protein 1 (MDR1). Further studies revealed that FNDC5 inhibited MDR1 expression via blocking nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation. FNDC5 promotes paclitaxel sensitivity of NSCLCs cells via inhibiting NF-κB/MDR1 signaling, and FNDC5 might be a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of NSCLCs.

The Effects of Inhibition of MicroRNA-375 in a Mouse Model of Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiac Toxicity

BACKGROUND Doxorubicin-induced myocardial toxicity is associated with oxidative stress, cardiomyocyte, apoptosis, and loss of contractile function. Previous studies showed that microRNA-375 (miR-375) expression was increased in mouse models of heart failure and clinically, and that inhibition of miR-375 reduced inflammation and increased survival of cardiomyocytes. This study aimed to investigate the effects and mechanisms of inhibition of miR-375 in a mouse model of doxorubicin-induced cardiac toxicity in vivo and in doxorubicin-treated rat and mouse cardiomyocytes in vitro. MATERIAL AND METHODS The mouse model of doxorubicin-induced cardiac toxicity was developed using an intraperitoneal injection of doxorubicin (15 mg/kg diluted in 0.9% saline) for eight days. Treatment was followed by a single subcutaneous injection of miR-375 inhibitor. H9c2 rat cardiac myocytes and adult murine cardiomyocytes (AMCs) were cultured in vitro and treated with doxorubicin, with and without pretreatment with miR-375 inhibitor. RESULTS Doxorubicin significantly upregulated miR-375 expression in vitro and in vivo, and inhibition of miR-375 re-established myocardial redox homeostasis, prevented doxorubicin-induced oxidative stress and cardiomyocyte apoptosis, and activated the PDK1/AKT axis by reducing the direct binding of miR-375 to 3' UTR of the PDK1 gene. Inhibition of PDK1 and AKT abolished the protective role of miR-375 inhibition on doxorubicin-induced oxidative damage. CONCLUSIONS Inhibition of miR-375 prevented oxidative damage in a mouse model of doxorubicin-induced cardiac toxicity in vivo and in doxorubicin-treated rat and mouse cardiomyocytes in vitro through the PDK1/AKT signaling pathway.

MicroRNA-143 Increases Oxidative Stress and Myocardial Cell Apoptosis in a Mouse Model of Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiac Toxicity

BACKGROUND Oxidative stress and myocardial apoptosis are features of doxorubicin-induced cardiac toxicity that can result in cardiac dysfunction. Previous studies showed that microRNA-143 (miR-143) was expressed in the myocardium and had a role in cardiac function. This study aimed to investigate the effects and possible molecular mechanisms of miR-143 on oxidative stress and myocardial cell apoptosis in a mouse model of doxorubicin-induced cardiac toxicity. MATERIAL AND METHODS Mice underwent intraperitoneal injection of doxorubicin (15 mg/kg) daily for eight days to develop the mouse model of doxorubicin-induced cardiac toxicity. Four days before doxorubicin administration, a group of mice was pretreated daily with a miR-143 antagonist (25 mg/kg/day) for four consecutive days by tail vein injection. The study included the use of a miR-143 antagomir, or anti-microRNA, an oligonucleotide that silenced endogenous microRNA (miR), and an agomir to miR-143, and also the AKT inhibitor, MK2206. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and immunoblot analysis were used to measure mRNA and protein expression, respectively. RESULTS Doxorubicin treatment increased the expression of miR-143, which was reduced by the miR-143 antagomir. Overexpression of miR-143 increased doxorubicin-induced myocardial apoptosis and oxidative stress. The use of the miR-143 antagomir significantly activated protein kinase B (PKB) and AKT, which were reduced in the presence of the AKT inhibitor, MK2206. However, the use of the miR-143 antagomir further down-regulated AKT phosphorylation following doxorubicin treatment and increased AKT activation. CONCLUSIONS In a mouse model of doxorubicin-induced cardiac toxicity, miR-143 increased oxidative stress and myocardial cell apoptosis following doxorubicin treatment by inhibiting AKT.

The Long Noncoding RNA Hotair Regulates Oxidative Stress and Cardiac Myocyte Apoptosis during Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury

Oxidative stress and subsequent cardiac myocyte apoptosis play central roles in the initiation and progression of myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. Homeobox transcript antisense intergenic RNA (Hotair) was previously implicated in various heart diseases, yet its role in myocardial I/R injury has not been clearly demonstrated. Mice with cardiac-restricted knockdown or overexpression of Hotair were exposed to I/R surgery. H9c2 cells were cultured and subjected to hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) stimulation to further verify the role and underlying mechanisms of Hotair in vitro. Histological examination, molecular detection, and functional parameters were determined in vivo and in vitro. In response to I/R or H/R treatment, Hotair expression was increased in a bromodomain-containing protein 4-dependent manner. Cardiac-restricted knockdown of Hotair exacerbated, whereas Hotair overexpression prevented I/R-induced oxidative stress, cardiac myocyte apoptosis, and cardiac dysfunction. Mechanistically, we observed that Hotair exerted its beneficial effects via activating AMP-activated protein kinase alpha (AMPKα). Further detection revealed that Hotair activated AMPKα through regulating the enhancer of zeste homolog 2/microRNA-451/calcium-binding protein 39 (EZH2/miR-451/Cab39) axis. We provide the evidence that endogenous lncRNA Hotair is an essential negative regulator for oxidative stress and cardiac myocyte apoptosis in myocardial I/R injury, which is dependent on AMPKα activation via the EZH2/miR-451/Cab39 axis.

Glycosylation of proteins of human skin fibroblasts is changed by rosmarinic acid

Glycosylation is a common post-translational process of protein modification. Glycans participate in many crucial biological functions like cell differentiation, cell adhesion, cell-cell interactions, and regulation of signaling pathways. Rosmarinic acid (RA) is a natural flavonoid with many pharmacological activities including anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, anti-bacterial, or anti-fibrotic. In this study, we aimed to determine the effect of 25, 50, and 100 μM rosmarinic acid on specific carbohydrate antigens in human skin fibroblasts. ELISA-liked test with biotinylated lectins was used to assess the level of sugar structures in cell lysates and culture supernatant. RT-PCR was applied to determine mRNA of selected glycosyltransferases responsible for formation of sugar antigens. Rosmarinic acid inhibited the expression of Tn, T antigens and their sialylated forms, fucosylated antigens, di NAclactosamine, and mannose antigens. All used doses of RA significantly decreased core 1 β1-3galactosyltransferase mRNA and 25 and 50 μM acid significantly inhibited GalNAcα2-6-sialyltransferase mRNA. The results indicate that rosmarinic acid, due to decreasing effect on specific sugar antigens, can change some of crucial carbohydrate functions in skin fibroblasts, e.g., involved in cell adhesion and cell-cell interactions.

Melatonin attenuates doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity through preservation of YAP expression

There are increasing concerns related to the cardiotoxicity of doxorubicin in the clinical setting. Recently, melatonin has been shown to exert a cardioprotective effect in various cardiovascular diseases, including cardiotoxic conditions. In this study, we examined the possible protective effects of melatonin on doxorubicin‐induced cardiotoxicity and explored the underlying mechanisms related to this process. We found that in vitro doxorubicin treatment significantly decreased H9c2 cell viability and induced apoptosis as manifested by increased TUNEL‐positive cells, down‐regulation of anti‐apoptotic protein Bcl‐2, as well as up‐regulation of pro‐apoptotic protein Bax. This was associated with increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and decreased mitochondrial membrane potentials (MMP). In vivo, five weeks of doxorubicin treatment significantly decreased cardiac function, as evaluated by echocardiography. TUNEL staining results confirmed the increased apoptosis caused by doxorubicin. On the other hand, combinational treatment of doxorubicin with melatonin decreased cardiomyocyte ROS and apoptosis levels, along with increasing MMP. Such doxorubicin‐melatonin co‐treatment alleviated in vivo doxorubicin‐induced cardiac injury. Western Blots, along with in vitro immunofluorescence and in vivo immunohistochemical staining confirmed that doxorubicin treatment significantly down‐regulated Yes‐associated protein (YAP) expression, while YAP levels were maintained under co‐treatment of doxorubicin and melatonin. YAP inhibition by siRNA abolished the protective effects of melatonin on doxorubicin‐treated cardiomyocytes, with reversed ROS level and apoptosis. Our findings suggested that melatonin treatment attenuated doxorubicin‐induced cardiotoxicity through preserving YAP levels, which in turn decreases oxidative stress and apoptosis.

Rosmarinic Acid as a Candidate in a Phenotypic Profiling Cardio-/Cytotoxicity Cell Model Induced by Doxorubicin

Advances in cancer treatment have led to significant improvements in long-term survival in many types of cancer, but heart dysfunction and heart failure, associated with cancer treatment, have also increased. Anthracyclines are the main cause of this type of cardiotoxicity. In this study, we describe a combined experimental and cell morphology analysis approach for the high-throughput measurement and analysis of a cardiomyocyte cell profile, using partial least square linear discriminant analysis (PLS-LDA) as the pattern recognition algorithm. When screening a small-scale natural compound library, rosmarinic acid (RosA), as a candidate drug, showed the same cardioprotective effect as the positive control. We investigated the protective mechanism of RosA on a human cardiomyocyte cell line (AC16) and human induced pluripotent stem-cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs). We showed that RosA pretreatment suppressed doxorubicin (Dox)-induced cell apoptosis and decreased the activity of caspase-9. RosA promotes the expression of Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and reduces the production of reactive oxygen species (Ros), which is induced by Dox. Meanwhile, it can also promote the expression of cardiac-development-related protein, including histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1), GATA binding protein 4 (GATA4) and troponin I3, cardiac type (CTnI). Collectively, our data support the notion that RosA is a protective agent in hiPSC-CMs and has the potential for therapeutic use in the treatment of cancer therapy-related cardiac dysfunction and heart failure.

MicroRNA-22 inhibition prevents doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity via upregulating SIRT1

Oxidative stress and cardiomyocyte apoptosis contributed to the progression of doxorubicin (Dox)-induced cardiotoxicity. Recent studies identified microRNA-22 (miR-22) as a cardiac- and skeletal muscle-enriched microRNA that functioned as a key regulator in stress-induced cardiac injury. The present study aimed to investigate the role and possible mechanism of miR-22 on Dox-induced oxidative stress and cardiomyocyte apoptosis. Mice were exposed to reduplicative injections of Dox (i.p., 4 mg/kg) weekly for consecutive 4 weeks to generate Dox-induced cardiotoxicity. Herein, we found that miR-22 level was significantly increased in murine hearts subjected to chronic Dox treatment. MiR-22 inhibition attenuated oxidative stress and cardiomyocyte apoptosis in vivo and in vitro, thereby preventing Dox-induced cardiac dysfunction. Mechanistically, we observed that miR-22 directly bound to the 3'-UTR of Sirt1 and caused SIRT1 downregulation. Conversely, miR-22 antagomir upregulated SIRT1 expression and SIRT1 inhibitor abolished the beneficial effects of miR-22 antagomir. In conclusion, miR-22 inhibition prevented oxidative stress and cardiomyocyte apoptosis via upregulating SIRT1 and miR-22 might be a new target for treating Dox-induced cardiotoxicity.