Feasibility of hemoperfusion using extracorporeal therapy in the horse

Objective

Develop, implement, and monitor for adverse effects of, a novel hemoperfusion therapy in adult horses.

Methods

A prospective, observational feasibility study using three healthy adult horses from the North Carolina State University teaching herd. Health status was determined by physical exam, complete blood count, coagulation panel, and serum biochemistry. Each horse was instrumented with a 14 Fr × 25 cm double-lumen temporary hemodialysis catheter and underwent a 240 min polymer-based hemoperfusion session. Horses were administered unfractionated heparin to maintain anti-coagulation during the session. Given the novelty of this therapy in horses, each horse was treated as a learning opportunity that informed an iterative process of protocol development and modification.

Measurements and main results

Our long-term goal is to investigate potential clinical applications of hemoperfusion in horses, including cytokine reduction in horses with severe SIRS/sepsis. Horses were monitored for changes in clinical exam, biochemistry and hematology parameters. Additionally, cytokines were quantified to determine whether extracorporeal hemadsorption therapy alone caused an inflammatory response. Our results show that hemoperfusion therapy was associated with decreased platelet counts and serum albumin concentration. There was no significant change in plasma cytokine concentrations with hemoperfusion therapy. In one horse, the cytokine concentrations decreased, as previously reported with hemoperfusion therapy in humans.

Hypothesis

We hypothesized that hemoperfusion therapy could be performed in healthy adult horses without significant adverse effects.

Conclusion

Polymer-based hemoperfusion is a feasible extracorporeal therapy (ECT) modality for adult horses. Additional studies are needed to further establish clinical protocols, as well as establish efficacy of polymer-based hemoperfusion for treatment of various conditions in horses, including intoxications, immune-mediated conditions, and sepsis.

Deciphering and overcoming Anti-PD-1 resistance in Melanoma: A comprehensive review of Mechanisms, biomarker Developments, and therapeutic strategies

Worldwide, tens of thousands of people die from melanoma each year, making it the most frequently fatal form of cutaneous cancer. Immunotherapeutic advancements, particularly with anti-PD-1 medications, have significantly enhanced treatment outcomes over recent decades. With the broad application of anti-PD-1 therapies, insights into the mechanisms of resistance have evolved. Despite the development of combination treatments and early predictive biomarkers, a comprehensive synthesis of these advancements is absent in the current literature. This review underscores the prevailing knowledge of anti-PD-1 resistance mechanisms and underscores the critical role of robust predictive biomarkers in stratifying patients for targeted combinations of anti-PD-1 and other conventional or innovative therapeutic approaches. Additionally, we offer insights that may shape future melanoma treatment strategies.

Interplay Between Drug-Induced Liver Injury and Gut Microbiota: A Comprehensive Overview

Drug-induced liver injury is a prevalent severe adverse event in clinical settings, leading to increased medical burdens for patients and presenting challenges for the development and commercialization of novel pharmaceuticals. Research has revealed a close association between gut microbiota and drug-induced liver injury in recent years. However, there has yet to be a consensus on the specific mechanism by which gut microbiota is involved in drug-induced liver injury. Gut microbiota may contribute to drug-induced liver injury by increasing intestinal permeability, disrupting intestinal metabolite homeostasis, and promoting inflammation and oxidative stress. Alterations in gut microbiota were found in drug-induced liver injury caused by antibiotics, psychotropic drugs, acetaminophen, antituberculosis drugs, and antithyroid drugs. Specific gut microbiota and their abundance are associated closely with the severity of drug-induced liver injury. Therefore, gut microbiota is expected to be a new target for the treatment of drug-induced liver injury. This review focuses on the association of gut microbiota with common hepatotoxic drugs and the potential mechanisms by which gut microbiota may contribute to the pathogenesis of drug-induced liver injury, providing a more comprehensive reference for the interaction between drug-induced liver injury and gut microbiota.

Short-term exposure to antibiotics begets long-term disturbance in gut microbial metabolism and molecular ecological networks

BACKGROUND

Antibiotic exposure can occur in medical settings and from environmental sources. Long-term effects of brief antibiotic exposure in early life are largely unknown.

RESULTS

Post a short-term treatment by ceftriaxone to C57BL/6 mice in early life, a 14-month observation was performed using 16S rRNA gene-sequencing technique, metabolomics analysis, and metagenomics analysis on the effects of ceftriaxone exposure. Firstly, the results showed that antibiotic pre-treatment significantly disturbed gut microbial α and β diversities (P < 0.05). Both Chao1 indices and Shannon indices manifested recovery trends over time, but they didn't entirely recover to the baseline of control throughout the experiment. Secondly, antibiotic pre-treatment reduced the complexity of gut molecular ecological networks (MENs). Various network parameters were affected and manifested recovery trends over time with different degrees, such as nodes (P < 0.001, R2 = 0.6563), links (P < 0.01, R2 = 0.4543), number of modules (P = 0.0672, R2 = 0.2523), relative modularity (P = 0.6714, R2 = 0.0155), number of keystones (P = 0.1003, R2 = 0.2090), robustness_random (P = 0.79, R2 = 0.0063), and vulnerability (P = 0.0528, R2 = 0.28). The network parameters didn't entirely recover. Antibiotic exposure obviously reduced the number of key species in gut MENs. Interestingly, new keystones appeared during the recovery process of network complexity. Changes in network stability might be caused by variations in network complexity, which supports the ecological theory that complexity begets stability. Besides, the metabolism profiles of the antibiotic group and control were significantly different. Correlation analysis showed that antibiotic-induced differences in gut microbial metabolism were related to MEN changes. Antibiotic exposure also caused long-term effects on gut microbial functional networks in mice.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that short-term antibiotic exposure in early life will cause long-term negative impacts on gut microbial diversity, MENs, and microbial metabolism. Therefore, great concern should be raised about children's brief exposure to antibiotics if the results observed in mice are applicable to humans. Video Abstract.

Long COVID-19 gastrointestinal related disorders and traditional Chinese medicine: A network target-based approach

The significant number of individuals impacted by the pandemic makes prolonged symptoms after COVID-19 a matter of considerable concern. These are numerous and affect multiple organ systems. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), prolonged gastrointestinal issues are a crucial part of post-COVID-19 syndrome. The resulting disruption of homeostasis underscores the need for a therapeutic approach based on compounds that can simultaneously affect more than one target/node. The present review aimed to check for nutraceuticals possessing multiple molecular mechanisms helpful in relieving Long COVID-19-specific gastrointestinal symptoms. Specific plants used in Keywords Chinese Medicine (TCM) expected to be included in the WHO Global Medical Compendium were selected based on the following criteria: (1) they are widely used in the Western world as natural remedies and complementary medicine adjuvants; (2) their import and trade are regulated by specific laws that ensure quality and safety (3) have the potential to be beneficial in alleviating intestinal issues associated with Long COVID-19. Searches were performed in PubMed, Elsevier, Google Scholar, Scopus, Science Direct, and ResearchGate up to 2023. Cinnamomum cassia, Glycyrrhiza uralensis, Magnolia officinalis, Poria cocos, Salvia miltiorrhiza, Scutellaria baicalensis, and Zingiber officinalis were identified as the most promising for their potential impact on inflammation and oxidative stress. Based on the molecular mechanisms of the phytocomplexes and isolated compounds of the considered plants, their clinical use may lead to benefits in gastrointestinal diseases associated with Long COVID-19, thanks to a multiorgan and multitarget approach.

The presence of virulence factor genes downregulates uterine AQP3 and alters glutathione peroxidase activity and uterine histopathology in canine pyometra

Present study was designed to evaluate the role of virulence factor genes (papG, cnf1 and hylA) in the pathogenesis of canine pyometra. Antimicrobial susceptibility test and detection of virulence genes were performed Escherichia coli (E. coli) detected in uterine swab samples. Animals were divided into two groups based on the presence (VF+, n:14) or absence (VF-, n:7) of the virulence factor genes papG, cnf1 and hylA. Blood and tissue glutathione peroxidase activity, uterine histopathologic analysis and AQP3, ESR1, PGR, OXTR gene expressions were determined in both groups. Statistical analyses were performed using Stata version 15.1. All E. coli isolates were susceptible to amikacin, whereas resistant to ampicillin, amoxicillin/clavulanic acid and lincomycin. None of the isolates were susceptible to cefotaxime. E. coli isolates had at least one virulence gene. The most prevalent gene was fimH (100%), followed by fyuA (95.8%), usp (83.3%), sfa (75%), cnf1 and hlyA (70.8%) genes. Blood GPx activity was greater in VF+ animals. On the other hand, uterine tissue GPx activity was lower in VF+ group compared to the control group. Expression levels of AQP3 were upregulated more than fivefold in VF-dogs compared to the control group. In addition, AQP3 expression levels were found approximately threefold higher in VF (-) than VF (+) group (p < .05). Varying degree of inflammation noted for all animals with pyometra, but the presence of bacteria noted only in VF+ animals. In conclusion, the presence of virulence factor genes does not play a role in the histopathological degree of inflammation, the presence of bacteria was found to vary. Serum GPx activity increased in VF+ animals. While the hormone receptor expressions were similar, AQP expression was upregulated in the absence of virulence factor genes.

Targeting liver and adipose tissue in obese mice: Effects of a N-acylethanolamine mixture on insulin resistance and adipocyte reprogramming

N-acylethanolamines (NAEs) are endogenous lipid-signalling molecules involved in inflammation and energy metabolism. The potential pharmacological effect of NAE association in managing inflammation-based metabolic disorders is unexplored. To date, targeting liver-adipose axis can be considered a therapeutic approach for the treatment of obesity and related dysfunctions. Here, we investigated the metabolic effect of OLALIAMID® (OLA), an olive oil-derived NAE mixture, in limiting liver and adipose tissue (AT) dysfunction of high-fat diet (HFD)-fed mice. OLA reduced body weight and fat mass in obese mice, decreasing insulin resistance (IR), as shown by homeostasis model assessment index, and leptin/adiponectin ratio, a marker of adipocyte dysfunction. OLA improved serum lipid and hepatic profile and the immune/inflammatory pattern of metainflammation. In liver of HFD mice, OLA treatment counteracted glucose and lipid dysmetabolism, restoring insulin signalling (phosphorylation of AKT and AMPK), and reducing mRNAs of key markers of fatty acid accumulation. Furthermore, OLA positively affected AT function deeply altered by HFD by reprogramming of genes involved in thermogenesis of interscapular brown AT (iBAT) and subcutaneous white AT (scWAT), and inducing the beigeing of scWAT. Notably, the NAE mixture reduced inflammation in iBAT and promoted M1-to-M2 macrophage shift in scWAT of obese mice. The tissue and systemic anti-inflammatory effects of OLA and the increased expression of glucose transporter 4 in scWAT contributed to the improvement of gluco-lipid toxicity and insulin sensitivity. In conclusion, we demonstrated that this olive oil-derived NAE mixture is a valid nutritional strategy to counteract IR and obesity acting on liver-AT crosstalk, restoring both hepatic and AT function and metabolism.

A Futile Cycle?: Tissue Homeostatic Trans-Membrane Water Co-Transport: Kinetics, Thermodynamics, Metabolic Consequences

The phenomenon of active trans-membrane water cycling (AWC) has emerged in little over a decade. Here, we consider H2O transport across cell membranes from the origins of its study. Historically, trans-membrane water transport processes were classified into: A) compensating bidirectional fluxes ("exchange"), and B) unidirectional flux ("net flow") categories. Recent literature molecular structure determinations and molecular dynamic (MD) simulations indicate probably all the many different hydrophilic substrate membrane co-transporters have membrane-spanning hydrophilic pathways and co-transport water along with their substrates, and that they individually catalyze category A and/or B water flux processes, although usually not simultaneously. The AWC name signifies that, integrated over the all the cell's co-transporters, the rate of homeostatic, bidirectional trans-cytolemmal water exchange (category A) is synchronized with the metabolic rate of the crucial Na+,K+-ATPase (NKA) enzyme. A literature survey indicates the stoichiometric (category B) water/substrate ratios of individual co-transporters are often very large. The MD simulations also suggest how different co-transporter reactions can be kinetically coupled molecularly. Is this (Na+,K+-ATPase rate-synchronized) cycling futile, or is it consequential? Conservatively representative literature metabolomic and proteinomic results enable comprehensive free energy analyses of the many transport reactions with known water stoichiometries. Free energy calculations, using literature intracellular pressure (Pi) values reveals there is an outward trans-membrane H2O barochemical gradient of magnitude comparable to that of the well-known inward Na+ electrochemical gradient. For most co-influxers, these gradients are finely balanced to maintain intracellular metabolite concentration values near their consuming enzyme Michaelis constants. The thermodynamic analyses include glucose, glutamate-, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and lactate- transporters. 2%-4% Pi alterations can lead to disastrous concentration levels. For the neurotransmitters glutamate- and GABA, very small astrocytic Pi changes can allow/disallow synaptic transmission. Unlike the Na+ and K+ electrochemical steady-states, the H2O barochemical steady-state is in (or near) chemical equilibrium. The analyses show why the presence of aquaporins (AQPs) does not dissipate the trans-membrane pressure gradient. A feedback loop inherent in the opposing Na+ electrochemical and H2O barochemical gradients regulates AQP-catalyzed water flux as an integral AWC aspect. These results also require a re-consideration of the underlying nature of Pi. Active trans-membrane water cycling is not futile, but is inherent to the cell's "NKA system" - a new, fundamental aspect of biology.

Biosensors for melanoma skin cancer diagnostics

Skin cancer is a critical global public health concern, with melanoma being the deadliest variant, correlated to 80% of skin cancer-related deaths and a remarkable propensity to metastasize. Despite notable progress in skin cancer prevention and diagnosis, the limitations of existing methods accentuate the demand for precise diagnostic tools. Biosensors have emerged as valuable clinical tools, enabling rapid and reliable point-of-care (POC) testing of skin cancer. This review offers insights into skin cancer development, highlights essential cutaneous melanoma biomarkers, and assesses the current landscape of biosensing technologies for diagnosis. The comprehensive analysis in this review underscores the transformative potential of biosensors in revolutionizing melanoma skin cancer diagnosis, emphasizing their critical role in advancing patient outcomes and healthcare efficiency. The increasing availability of these approaches supports direct diagnosis and aims to reduce the reliance on biopsies, enhancing POC diagnosis. Recent advancements in biosensors for skin cancer diagnosis hold great promise, with their integration into healthcare expected to enhance early detection accuracy and reliability, thereby mitigating socioeconomic disparities.

Signaling crosstalk between mesenchymal stem cells and tumor cells: Implications for tumor suppression or progression

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been extensively used in various therapeutic applications over the last two decades, particularly in regenerative medicine and cancer treatment. MSCs have the ability to differentiate into mesodermal and non-mesodermal lineages, which makes them a popular choice in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Studies have shown that MSCs have inherent tumor-suppressive properties and can affect the behavior of multiple cells contributing to tumor development. Additionally, MSCs possess a tumor tropism property and have a hypoimmune nature. The intrinsic features of MSCs along with their potential to undergo genetic manipulation and be loaded with various anticancer therapeutics have motivated researchers to use them in different cancer therapy approaches without considering their complex dynamic biological aspects. However, despite their desirable features, several reports have shown that MSCs possess tumor-supportive properties. These contradictory results signify the sophisticated nature of MSCs and warn against the potential therapeutic applications of MSCs. Therefore, researchers should meticulously consider the biological properties of MSCs in preclinical and clinical studies to avoid any undesirable outcomes. This manuscript reviews preclinical studies on MSCs and cancer from the last two decades, discusses how MSC properties affect tumor progression and explains the mechanisms behind tumor suppressive and supportive functions. It also highlights critical cellular pathways that could be targeted in future studies to improve the safety and effectiveness of MSC-based therapies for cancer treatment. The insights obtained from this study will pave the way for further clinical research on MSCs and development of more effective cancer treatments.

Extracellular vesicles are key players in mesenchymal stem cells' dual potential to regenerate and modulate the immune system

MSCs are used for treatment of inflammatory conditions or for regenerative purposes. MSCs are complete cells and allogenic transplantation is in principle possible, but mostly autologous use is preferred. In recent years, it was discovered that cells secrete extracellular vesicles. These are active budded off vesicles that carry a cargo. The cargo can be miRNA, protein, lipids etc. The extracellular vesicles can be transported through the body and fuse with target cells. Thereby, they influence the phenotype and modulate the disease. The extracellular vesicles have, like the MSCs, immunomodulatory or regenerative capacities. This review will focus on those features of extracellular vesicles and discuss their dual role. Besides the immunomodulation, the regeneration will concentrate on bone, cartilage, tendon, vessels and nerves. Current clinical trials with extracellular vesicles for immunomodulation and regeneration that started in the last five years are highlighted as well. In summary, extracellular vesicles have a great potential as disease modulating entity and treatment. Their dual characteristics need to be taken into account and often are both important for having the best effect.

Amino acid-based supramolecular chiral hydrogels promote osteogenesis of human dental pulp stem cells via the MAPK pathway

Critical-size defects (CSDs) of the craniofacial bones cause aesthetic and functional complications that seriously impact the quality of life. The transplantation of human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) is a promising strategy for bone tissue engineering. Chirality is commonly observed in natural biomolecules, yet its effect on stem cell differentiation is seldom studied, and little is known about the underlying mechanism. In this study, supramolecular chiral hydrogels were constructed using L/d-phenylalanine (L/D-Phe) derivatives. The results of alkaline phosphatase expression analysis, alizarin red S assay, as well as quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot analyses suggest that right-handed D-Phe hydrogel fibers significantly promoted osteogenic differentiation of hDPSCs. A rat model of calvarial defects was created to investigate the regulation of chiral nanofibers on the osteogenic differentiation of hDPSCs in vivo. The results of the animal experiment demonstrated that the D-Phe group exhibited greater and faster bone formation on hDPSCs. The results of RNA sequencing, vinculin immunofluorescence staining, a calcium fluorescence probe assay, and western blot analysis indicated that L-Phe significantly promoted adhesion of hDPSCs, while D-Phe nanofibers enhanced osteogenic differentiation of hDPSCs by facilitating calcium entry into cells and activate the MAPK pathway. These results of chirality-dependent osteogenic differentiation offer a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of CSDs by optimising the differentiation of hDPSCs into chiral nanofibers.

Harnessing and delivering microbial metabolites as therapeutics via advanced pharmaceutical approaches

Microbial metabolites have emerged as key players in the interplay between diet, the gut microbiome, and host health. Two major classes, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and tryptophan (Trp) metabolites, are recognized to regulate inflammatory, immune, and metabolic responses within the host. Given that many human diseases are associated with dysbiosis of the gut microbiome and consequent reductions in microbial metabolite production, the administration of these metabolites represents a direct, multi-targeted treatment. While a multitude of preclinical studies showcase the therapeutic potential of both SCFAs and Trp metabolites, they often rely on high doses and frequent dosing regimens to achieve systemic effects, thereby constraining their clinical applicability. To address these limitations, a variety of pharmaceutical formulations approaches that enable targeted, delayed, and/or sustained microbial metabolite delivery have been developed. These approaches, including enteric encapsulations, esterification to dietary fiber, prodrugs, and nanoformulations, pave the way for the next generation of microbial metabolite-based therapeutics. In this review, we first provide an overview of the roles of microbial metabolites in maintaining host homeostasis and outline how compromised metabolite production contributes to the pathogenesis of inflammatory, metabolic, autoimmune, allergic, infectious, and cancerous diseases. Additionally, we explore the therapeutic potential of metabolites in these disease contexts. Then, we provide a comprehensive and up-to-date review of the pharmaceutical strategies that have been employed to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of microbial metabolites, with a focus on SCFAs and Trp metabolites.

Clinical validation of circulating immune complexes for use as a diagnostic marker of canine leishmaniosis

Introduction

Canine leishmaniosis (CanL) is a systemic disease that affects dogs. When multiplication of the parasite cannot be controlled, dogs consistently show high levels of antigen and IgG antibodies, which lead to the formation of circulating immune complexes (CIC). Timely intervention to reduce the parasite load and CIC levels is crucial for preventing irreversible organ damage. However, a diagnostic test to quantify CIC levels is currently lacking.

Methods

In this real-world study, we aimed to examine the performance of a new ELISA to measure CIC levels in dogs naturally infected with Leishmania infantum. Thirty-four dogs were treated according to their clinical condition and followed for 360 days. Before (day 0) and after treatment (days 30, 90, 180, 270, and 360), all dogs underwent a physical examination, and blood samples were obtained for CBC, biochemical profile, serum protein electrophoresis and IFAT. Serum PEG-precipitated CIC were determined by ELISA.

Results

Our results indicate higher CIC levels in dogs in advanced disease stages showing higher antibody titres (p < 0.0001, r = 0.735), anemia (p < 0.0001), dysproteinemia (p < 0.0001), and proteinuria (p = 0.004). Importantly, dogs responding well to treatment exhibited declining CIC levels (p < 0.0001), while in poor responders and those experiencing relapses, CIC were consistently elevated. CIC emerged as a robust discriminator of relapse, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.808. The optimal cut-off to accurately identify relapse was an optical density of 1.539.

Discussion

Our findings suggest that declining CIC levels should be expected in dogs showing a favorable treatment response. Conversely, in dogs displaying a poor response and recurrent clinical relapses, CIC levels will be high, emphasizing the need for vigilant monitoring. These findings suggest that CIC could serve as a valuable biomarker for disease progression, treatment efficacy, and relapse detection in CanL. Our study contributes to enhancing diagnostic approaches for CanL and underscores the potential of CIC as a complementary tool in veterinary practice. As we move forward, larger studies will be essential to confirm these findings and establish definitive cut-offs for clinical application.

Value of [18F]FDG PET/CT parameters of the primary tumor in assessing overall survival in NSCLC patients with cN1-cN3 lymph nodes involvement

Background

The aim of this retrospective study was to assess the value of 18F-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography ([18F]FDG PET/CT parameters in cN1-cN3 non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients.

Materials and methods

59 consecutive patients (35 M, 24 F) with NSCLC who underwent pretreatment [18F]FDG PET/CT were enrolled to this study. Several primary tumor PET parameters, including the maximum and mean standardized uptake value (SUVmax and SUVmean), the metabolic active tumor volume (MTV) and the total lesion glycolysis (TLG = MTVxSUVmean), were extracted and analysed. Overall survival was defined as time from primary diagnosis to death or the last info.

Results

In the whole analysed group 44 patients underwent curative treatment, while 15, because of the severity of the disease, were classified for palliative treatment. Univariate Cox analysis of clinical and metric PET parameters revealed that MTV was a significant prognostic factor for OS (p = 0.024), while TLG and curative treatment showed a trend for significance (p < 0.1). In multivariate Cox regression (MTV and curative treatment) MTV remained a significant factor (p = 0.047).

Conclusions

Metabolic tumor volume of the primary tumor was the only independent prognostic factor for cN1-cN3 NSCLC patients.

Abundance of selected genes implicated in testicular functions in Camelus dromedarius with high and low epididymal semen quality

Studying testicular genes' expression may give key insights into precise regulation of its functions that influence epididymal sperm quality. The current study aimed to investigate the abundance of candidate genes involved in the regulation of testicular functions specially those regulate sperm function (PLA2G4D, SPP1, and CLUAP1), testicular steroidogenic function (ESR1 and AR), materials transport (AQP12B and LCN15), and defense mechanisms (DEFB110, GPX5, SOCS3, and IL6). Therefore, blood samples and testes with epididymis were collected from mature middle-aged (5-10 years) dromedary camels (n = 45) directly prior and after their slaughtering, respectively, during breeding season. Sera were evaluated for testosterone level and testicular biometry was measured with caliper. The epididymal tail semen was evaluated manually. Samples were distinguished based on testosterone level, testicular biometry, as well as epididymal semen features into high and low fertile groups. Total RNA was isolated from testicular tissues and gene expression was done using Quantitative Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR). Results revealed that testosterone levels were significantly (P < 0.005) higher in camels with good semen quality than those of low quality. There was a significant (P < 0.0001) increase in testicular weight, length, width, thickness, and volume in high fertile than low fertile camels. PLA2G4D, SPP1, CLUAP1, ESR1, AR, AQP12B, LCN15, DEFB110, GPX5, and SOCS3 genes were upregulated (P < 0.001), and IL6 gene was downregulated (P < 0.01) in the testes of high fertile camels compared to the low fertile one. Thus, it could be concluded that examined genes might be valuable monitors of testicular functional status and fertility in dromedary camels.

Extracellular vesicles derived from SARS-CoV-2 M-protein-induced triple negative breast cancer cells promoted the ability of tissue stem cells supporting cancer progression

Introduction

SARS-CoV-2 infection increases the risk of worse outcomes in cancer patients, including those with breast cancer. Our previous study reported that the SARS-CoV-2 membrane protein (M-protein) promotes the malignant transformation of triple-negative breast cancer cells (triple-negative BCC).

Methods

In the present study, the effects of M-protein on the ability of extracellular vesicles (EV) derived from triple-negative BCC to regulate the functions of tissue stem cells facilitating the tumor microenvironment were examined.

Results

Our results showed that EV derived from M-protein-induced triple-negative BCC (MpEV) significantly induced the paracrine effects of adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ATMSC) on non-aggressive BCC, promoting the migration, stemness phenotypes, and in vivo metastasis of BCC, which is related to PGE2/IL1 signaling pathways, in comparison to EV derived from normal triple-negative BCC (nEV). In addition to ATMSC, the effects of MpEV on endothelial progenitor cells (EPC), another type of tissue stem cells, were examined. Our data suggested that EPC uptaking MpEV acquired a tumor endothelial cell-like phenotype, with increasing angiogenesis and the ability to support the aggressiveness and metastasis of non-aggressive BCC.

Discussion

Taken together, our findings suggest the role of SARS-CoV-2 M-protein in altering the cellular communication between cancer cells and other non-cancer cells inside the tumor microenvironment via EV. Specifically, M-proteins induced the ability of EV derived from triple-negative BCC to promote the functions of non-cancer cells, such as tissue stem cells, in tumorigenesis.

Proteomic Analysis Highlights the Impact of the Sphingolipid Metabolizing Enzyme β-Galactosylceramidase on Mitochondrial Plasticity in Human Melanoma

Mitochondrial plasticity, marked by a dynamism between glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation due to adaptation to genetic and microenvironmental alterations, represents a characteristic feature of melanoma progression. Sphingolipids play a significant role in various aspects of cancer cell biology, including metabolic reprogramming. Previous observations have shown that the lysosomal sphingolipid-metabolizing enzyme β-galactosylceramidase (GALC) exerts pro-oncogenic functions in melanoma. Here, mining the cBioPortal for a Cancer Genomics data base identified the top 200 nuclear-encoded genes whose expression is negatively correlated with GALC expression in human melanoma. Their categorization indicated a significant enrichment in Gene Ontology terms and KEGG pathways related to mitochondrial proteins and function. In parallel, proteomic analysis by LC-MS/MS of two GALC overexpressing human melanoma cell lines identified 98 downregulated proteins when compared to control mock cells. Such downregulation was confirmed at a transcriptional level by a Gene Set Enrichment Analysis of the genome-wide expression profiling data obtained from the same cells. Among the GALC downregulated proteins, we identified a cluster of 42 proteins significantly associated with GO and KEGG categorizations related to mitochondrion and energetic metabolism. Overall, our data indicate that changes in GALC expression may exert a significant impact on mitochondrial plasticity in human melanoma cells.

Effect of vitamin D3 and a stinging nettle extract on the gastric tissue of rats administered with trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid

In this study, the effects of vitamin D3 (Vit. D) and a stinging nettle [Urtica dioica L. (UD)] extract were examined using histopathological and immunohistochemical methods in the stomach tissues of an experimentally created rat model of Crohn's disease (CD). The CD model was created using trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS). The animals in the study were divided into control, TNBS, TNBS+Vit. D, and TNBS+UD groups. At the end of the experiment, the animals were euthanised and their stomach tissues were evaluated for necrosis, degeneration, apoptosis, and inflammation. Additionally, an immunohistochemical method was applied to determine the somatostatin (SSTR), aquaporin-1 (AQP-1), caspase-3, and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) immunoreactivity in the gastric tissues. In the evaluations, degenerative and necrotic changes and mononuclear cell infiltration areas were observed in the TNBS group, but such changes could be improved with Vit. D and UD applications. The results suggest that the combination of the Vit. D and UD extract may have a protective and therapeutic role in mitigating TNBS-induced damage to the gastric tissues, potentially through the regulation of SSTR, AQP-1, caspase-3, and TNF-α expression. This indicates a promising avenue for further research and the exploration of these compounds in the context of gastrointestinal health.

Norcantharidin in cancer therapy - a new approach to overcoming therapeutic resistance: A review

Therapeutic resistance in cancer remains a dilemma that scientists and oncologists are eager to solve. Despite several preclinical and clinical studies dedicated to overcoming therapeutic resistance, they often do not yield the expected outcomes. This is primarily due to the multifactorial phenomenon of therapeutic resistance. Norcantharidin (NCTD) is an artificial compound derived from cantharidin that has significant anticancer efficacy without incurring serious side effects. Intriguingly, extensive research suggests that NCTD is essential for boosting anticancer efficacy and reversing treatment resistance. This review article presents a full description of how NCTD can effectively overcome cancer resistance to standard treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy. We also discuss the potential prospects and challenges associated with using NCTD as a therapeutic strategy for reversing resistance to cancer therapy. We anticipate that our review will serve as a valuable reference for researchers and clinicians.

Exploring the potential use of platelet rich plasma (PRP) from adult and umbilical cord blood in murine follicle culture

Ovarian follicle culture is a powerful tool to study follicular physiology and has potential applications in clinical and commercial settings. Despite remarkable progress, recreating folliculogenesis in vitro remains challenging for many mammalian species. This study investigates the impact of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) derived from adult blood (human platelet lysate, hPL) and umbilical cord blood (Umbilical cord plasma, UCP) on murine pre-antral follicle culture and oocyte maturation. Pre-antral follicles were cultured individually for 10 days with fetal bovine serum (FBS) serving as the control and two PRP sources (hPL and UCP) and their activated forms (Ac-hPL and Ac-UCP). The results suggest that neither hPL nor UCP, regardless of activation status, improved follicle culture outcomes compared to FBS. Interestingly, activation did not significantly impact the main functional outcomes such as maturation rates, survival, and growth. Oestradiol secretion and oocyte diameter, often considered hallmarks of follicle quality, did not show significant differences between matured and non-matured oocytes across the treatment groups. However, gene expression analysis revealed a significant upregulation of Gdf-9 and Bmp-15 mRNA levels in oocytes from the Ac-UCP group, regardless of maturation stage, suggesting that the accumulation of the mRNA could be due to potential challenges in translation in the Ac-UCP group. In conclusion, this study challenges the hypothesis that PRP, as a serum source, could improve follicle culture outcomes compared to FBS, the gold standard in murine follicle culture. Further research is needed to understand the species-specific effects of PRP and explore other potential factors affecting follicle culture and oocyte quality.

Molecular Profile of Variants Potentially Associated with Severe Forms of COVID-19 in Amazonian Indigenous Populations

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infection caused by SARS-CoV-2. Genome-wide association studies (GWASs) have suggested a strong association of genetic factors with the severity of the disease. However, many of these studies have been completed in European populations, and little is known about the genetic variability of indigenous peoples' underlying infection by SARS-CoV-2. The objective of the study is to investigate genetic variants present in the genes AQP3, ARHGAP27, ELF5L, IFNAR2, LIMD1, OAS1 and UPK1A, selected due to their association with the severity of COVID-19, in a sample of indigenous people from the Brazilian Amazon in order to describe potential new and already studied variants. We performed the complete sequencing of the exome of 64 healthy indigenous people from the Brazilian Amazon. The allele frequency data of the population were compared with data from other continental populations. A total of 66 variants present in the seven genes studied were identified, including a variant with a high impact on the ARHGAP27 gene (rs201721078) and three new variants located in the Amazon Indigenous populations (INDG) present in the AQP3, IFNAR2 and LIMD1 genes, with low, moderate and modifier impact, respectively.

Structural perturbations induced by cumulative action of methylglyoxal and peroxynitrite on human fibrinogen: An in vitro and in silico approach

Methylglyoxal (MGO); a reducing sugar and a dicarbonyl; attaches to the biomolecules (proteins, lipids, and DNA) leading to glycation and accumulation of oxidative stress in cells and tissues. Superoxide anion formed under such conditions entraps free nitric oxide radical (NO) to form peroxynitrite (PON). Nitro-oxidative stress due to PON is well established. Human fibrinogen plays a key role in haemostasis and is a highly vulnerable target for oxidation. Modifications of fibrinogen can potentially disrupt its structure and function. Earlier evidence suggested that glycation and nitro-oxidation lead to protein aggregation by making it resistant to lysis. This study aims to reveal the structural perturbations on fibrinogen in the presence of MGO and PON synergistically. The in vitro glyco-nitro-oxidation of human fibrinogen by MGO and PON leads to substantial structural alterations, as evident by biophysical and biochemical studies. In-silico results revealed the formation of stable complexes. UV-visible, intrinsic fluorescence, and circular dichroism investigations confirmed the synergistic effect of MGO and PON caused micro-structural modifications leading to secondary structural alterations. AGEs formation in MGO-modified fibrinogen reduced the free lysine and free arginine residues which were quantified by TNBS and phenanthrenequinone assays. Enhanced oxidative status was confirmed by estimating carbonyl content. ANS fluorophore validated exposure of hydrophobic patches in modified protein and thioflavin-T showed maximum binding with synergistically modified fibrinogen, indicated the formation of β-sheet. Confocal and electron microscope results corroborated the formation of aggregates. This study, therefore, evaluated the impact of MGO and PON on the structural integrity, oxidative status and aggregate formation of fibrinogen that can aggravate metabolic complications.

Utilization of Infrared Thermography in Assessing Thermal Responses of Farm Animals under Heat Stress

Heat stress is a condition that can affect the health, performance, and welfare of farm animals. The perception of thermal stress leads to the activation of the autonomic nervous system to start a series of physiological and behavioral mechanisms to restore thermostability. One of these mechanisms is vasodilation of peripheral blood vessels to increase heat loss through the skin. Due to this aspect, infrared thermography has been suggested as a method to assess the thermal state of animals and predict rectal temperature values noninvasively. However, it is important to consider that predicting rectal temperature is challenging, and its association with IRT is not always a direct linear relationship. The present review aims to analyze the neurobiological response associated with heat stress and how thermal imaging in different thermal windows can be used to recognize heat stress in farmed ungulates.

Investigation of Climate Effects on the Physiological Parameters of Dairy Livestock (Cow vs. Buffalo)

Nowadays climate change is affecting the planet's biodiversity, and livestock practices must adapt themselves to improve production without affecting animal welfare. This work investigates the influence that some climatic parameters such as Environment Temperature, Relative Humidity, Thermal excursion and Temperature-Humidity Index (THI), can have on milk quantity and quality in two different dairy species (buffaloes and cows) raised on the same farm. A further aim was to understand if THI threshold used for cows could also be used for buffaloes. The climatic parameters were recorded daily through a meteorological station located inside the farm. Milk quantity (converted into ECM) and quality (Fat Percentage-FP; Protein Percentage-PP; Somatic Cell Count-SCC) were measured. Data were analyzed with Spearman's correlation index, separately for buffaloes and cows. The results indicate a greater sensitivity of cows to heat stress and a strong negative correlation of the ECM with meteorological data (p < 0.01). The results of this study may stimulate the use of integrated technologies (sensors, software) in the dairy sector, since the IoT (sensors, software) helps to enhance animal well-being and to optimize process costs, with a precision livestock farming approach.

Hypothalamic Neuromodulation of Hypothermia in Domestic Animals

When an organism detects decreases in their core body temperature, the hypothalamus, the main thermoregulatory center, triggers compensatory responses. These responses include vasomotor changes to prevent heat loss and physiological mechanisms (e.g., shivering and non-shivering thermogenesis) for heat production. Both types of changes require the participation of peripheral thermoreceptors, afferent signaling to the spinal cord and hypothalamus, and efferent pathways to motor and/or sympathetic neurons. The present review aims to analyze the scientific evidence of the hypothalamic control of hypothermia and the central and peripheral changes that are triggered in domestic animals.

Mesenchymal stromal cells and CAR-T cells in regenerative medicine: The homing procedure and their effective parameters

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells are two core elements in cell therapy procedures. MSCs have significant immunomodulatory effects that alleviate inflammation in the tissue regeneration process, while administration of specific chemokines and adhesive molecules would primarily facilitate CAR-T cell trafficking into solid tumors. Multiple parameters affect cell homing, including the recipient's age, the number of cell passages, proper cell culture, and the delivery method. In addition, several chemokines are involved in the tumor microenvironment, affecting the homing procedure. This review discusses parameters that improve the efficiency of cell homing and significant cell therapy challenges. Emerging comprehensive mechanistic strategies such as non-systemic and systemic homing that revealed a significant role in cell therapy remodeling were also reviewed. Finally, the primary implications for the development of combination therapies that incorporate both MSCs and CAR-T cells for cancer treatment were discussed.

Cellular Distribution of Aquaporin 3, 7 and 9 in the Male Reproductive System: A Lesson from Bovine Study (Bos taurus)

The increasing incidence of male infertility in humans and animals creates the need to search for new factors that significantly affect the course of reproductive processes. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the temporospatial expression of aquaglyceroporins (AQP3, AQP7 and AQP9) in the bovine (Bos taurus) reproductive system using immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. The study also included morphological analysis and identification of GATA-4. In brief, in immature individuals, AQP3 and AQP7 were found in gonocytes. In reproductive bulls, AQP3 was observed in spermatocytes and spermatogonia, while AQP7 was visible in all germ cells and the Sertoli cells. AQP7 and AQP9 were detected in the Leydig cells. Along the entire epididymis of reproductive bulls, aquaglyceroporins were visible, among others, in basal cells (AQP3 and AQP7), in epididymal sperm (AQP7) and in the stereocilia of the principal cells (AQP9). In males of all ages, aquaglyceroporins were identified in the principal and basal cells of the vas deferens. An increase in the expression of AQP3 in the testis and cauda epididymis and a decrease in the abundance of AQP7 in the vas deferens with age were found. In conclusion, age-related changes in the expression and/or distribution patterns of AQP3, AQP7 and AQP9 indicate the involvement of these proteins in the normal development and course of male reproductive processes in cattle.

Mechanisms of Melanoma Progression and Treatment Resistance: Role of Cancer Stem-like Cells

Melanoma is the third most common type of skin cancer, characterized by its heterogeneity and propensity to metastasize to distant organs. Melanoma is a heterogeneous tumor, composed of genetically divergent subpopulations, including a small fraction of melanoma-initiating cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) and many non-cancer stem cells (non-CSCs). CSCs are characterized by their unique surface proteins associated with aberrant signaling pathways with a causal or consequential relationship with tumor progression, drug resistance, and recurrence. Melanomas also harbor significant alterations in functional genes (BRAF, CDKN2A, NRAS, TP53, and NF1). Of these, the most common are the BRAF and NRAS oncogenes, with 50% of melanomas demonstrating the BRAF mutation (BRAFV600E). While the successful targeting of BRAFV600E does improve overall survival, the long-term efficacy of available therapeutic options is limited due to adverse side effects and reduced clinical efficacy. Additionally, drug resistance develops rapidly via mechanisms involving fast feedback re-activation of MAPK signaling pathways. This article updates information relevant to the mechanisms of melanoma progression and resistance and particularly the mechanistic role of CSCs in melanoma progression, drug resistance, and recurrence.

G Protein-Coupled Estrogen Receptor (GPER) and ERs Are Modulated in the Testis-Epididymal Complex in the Normal and Cryptorchid Dog

There is growing evidence by the literature that the unbalance between androgens and estrogens is a relevant condition associated with a common canine reproductive disorder known as cryptorchidism. The role of estrogens in regulating testicular cell function and reproductive events is supposedly due to the wide expression of two nuclear estrogen receptors (ERs), ER-alpha and ER-beta and a trans-membrane G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) in the testis. In this study, immunohistochemistry, Western blotting and qRT-PCR were used to assess the distribution and expression of GPER in the testis-epididymal complex in the normal and cryptorchid dog. ER-alpha and ER-beta were also evaluated to better characterize the relative abundances of all three receptors. In addition, in these tissues, the expression level of two proteins as SOD1 and Nrf2 normally associated with oxidative stress was investigated to evaluate a possible relationship with ERs. Our data revealed changes in the distribution and expression of the GPER between the normal and cryptorchid dog. In particular, dogs affected by cryptorchidism showed an upregulation of GPER at level of the examined reproductive tract. Also considering the obtained result of a modulation of SOD1 and Nrf2 expression, we could hypothesize the involvement of GPER in the cryptorchid condition. Further studies are, however, necessary to characterize the role of GPER and its specific signaling mechanisms.

Differences in human and commercial hybrid pig platelet activation induced by borosilicate glass beads in a modified chandler loop-system

 The pig (Sus scrofa) is the most widely used large animal model in Europe, with cardiovascular research being one of the main areas of application. Adequate refinement of interventional studies in this field, meeting the requirements of Russell and Burch's 3 R concept, can only be performed if blood-contacting medical devices are hemocompatible. Because most medical devices for cardiovascular interventional procedures are developed for humans, they are tested only for compatibility with human blood. The aim of this study was therefore to determine whether there are differences in behavior of human and porcine platelets from commercial hybrid pigs when they come into contact with borosilicate glass, which was used as an exemplary thrombogenic material. For this purpose, changes in platelet count, platelet volume and platelet expression of the activation markers CD61, CD62P and CD63 were measured using a modified chandler loop-system simulating the fluidic effects of the bloodflow. Commercial hybrid pig and human platelets showed significant adhesions to borosilicate glass but the commercial hybrid pigs platelets showed a significantly higher tendency to adhere to borosilicate glass. In contrast to human platelets the platelets of commercial hybrid pigs showed significant activation after 4 to 8 minutes exposure to borosilicate glass and there were differences among the ratios of surface and activation markers in between the platelets of both species.

Fn-HMGB1 Adsorption Behavior Initiates Early Immune Recognition and Subsequent Osteoinduction of Biomaterials

Implantable biomaterials are widely used in bone tissue engineering, but little is still known about how they initiate early immune recognition and the initial dynamics. Herein, the early immune recognition and subsequent osteoinduction of biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) after implantation to the protein adsorption behavior is attributed. By liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis, the biomaterial-related molecular patterns (BAMPs) formed after BCP implantation are mapped, dominated by the highly expressed extracellular matrix protein fibronectin (Fn) and the high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1). Molecular dynamics simulations show that Fn has the ability to bind more readily to the BCP surface than HMGB1. The preferential binding of Fn provides a higher adsorption energy for HMGB1. Furthermore, multiple hydrogen bonding sites between HMGB1 and Fn are demonstrated using a molecular docking approach. Ultimately, the formation of BAMPs through HMGB1 antagonist glycyrrhizic acid (GA), resulting in impaired immune recognition of myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MYD88) mediated dendritic cells (DCs) and macrophages (Mφs), as well as failed osteoinduction processes is obstructed. This study introduces a mechanism for early immune recognition of implant materials based on protein adsorption, providing perspectives for future design and application of tissue engineering materials.

Histological study of Bactrian camel cryptorchidism and expression of immunoglobulin λ light chain in the testicular and epididymis of cryptorchid Bactrian camel

Lambda light chains (λ-LCs) are frequently responsible for triggering the activation of inflammatory factors in autoimmune disorders, and an increase in their levels will cause various pathological changes in serum. The aim of this study was to determine the histological differences between the epididymis and testis of normal and cryptorchid Bactrian camels and the differences in λ-LC expression in the epididymis and testis of normal and cryptorchid Bactrian camels. Haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining was used to examine the pathological changes in cryptorchidism. The gene and protein levels of λ-LC were determined using RT-qPCR and western blot. The distribution of λ-LCs was assessed by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. Compared with that in normal Bactrian camels, the diameter of the epididymal lumen and the thickness of the epithelium were decreased in the epididymis of cryptorchidic animals. Additionally, no sperm was detected in the cavity of the cryptorchidic epididymis. Meanwhile, the expression of λ-LC was significantly increased in the cryptorchidic epididymis at both the mRNA and protein levels (p < .05). The highest protein expression of λ-LC was found in epididymal epithelial halo cells and testicular Sertoli cells. These findings suggested that the structural changes observed in the epididymal epithelium of cryptorchidic camels affect its secretory and absorptive functions. Additionally, the high level of λ-LC expression recorded in halo cells suggested that these cells play an important role in epithelial immunity in cryptorchidic Bactrian camels. Furthermore, the high λ-LC expression levels detected in normal testicular Sertoli cells indicated that λ-LCs may be involved in spermatogenesis. The results of this study provide clues for an in-depth study of immunological sterility in cryptorchidic Bactrian camels.

Distributions and expressions of Aquaporin-5 and 7 in the testes of developing male chicks

Aquaporins (AQPs) are integral membrane proteins that act as water channels for which a total of 13 orthologs of AQP genes in birds have been reported. Tissue expression and cellular or subcellular localization of AQPs have been poorly investigated in the male reproductive system of birds. We aimed to determine the distribution and localization of AQP5 and AQP7 proteins by immunocytochemistry in testicular tissues obtained from developing chicks (14, 21, 28, 35 and 42 days old). Totally 175 male chicks (Ross 308) were used in the study from which testicular tissue was removed, fixed in 10% formaldehyde solution, then embedded in paraffin blocks. Five μm sections were cut, mounted on poly-L-lysine slides, dried in an oven, then dehydrated using standard immunohistochemistry staining protocol. The sections were imaged with a Nikon Eclipse 50i trinocular light microscope. Immunohistochemical evaluation of the immune reactivity of AQP5 revealed a positive immune reaction in spermatocytes and interstitial areas of the testes in 14-day-old chicks. Testicular tissue AQP5 immune reactivity was observed in the tubule and the interstitial regions of 21-, 28-, 35- and 42-day-old chicks. AQP7 immune reactions were determined in the tubule and interstitial areas testes of developing chicks' testis tissue, with increasing positivity corresponding to older age. The expression of AQP5 and AQP7 appears to be species-specific due to differences in localization and expression in male chicks compared with studies of other mammals, which is likely to play an important role in regulating fluid and sperm volume. This research can serve as a base for future studies that will contribute to the understanding of the male genital system of AQPs.

Therapeutic applications of canine platelets and their derivatives: a narrative review

Platelets contain a multitude of growth factors and play a crucial role in physiological processes such as thrombogenesis, tissue repair, and angiogenesis. As a result, platelet-derived products have significant potential for efficient utilization in the realm of regenerative medicine due to their therapeutic and biological attributes. Numerous studies have already substantiated the therapeutic viability of platelets in various canine ailments. The existing literature indicates a substantial surge in the clinical application of canine platelets, positioning platelet-derived products as a viable alternative to conventional therapeutic agents. Platelet concentrates, including platelet-rich plasma and platelet-rich fibrin are commonly used as a therapeutic modality in clinical cases. These therapeutic derivatives exhibit effectiveness in tissue regeneration and can serve as complementary therapies. Notably, they offer a cost-effective and easily accessible therapeutic option, which has demonstrated its benefits in chronic inflammatory disorders such as osteoarthritis and tendinitis, ophthalmic conditions, wound healing, and mandibular injuries in canine patients. The broad spectrum of therapeutic effects displayed by platelets is providing researchers with novel perspectives for crafting therapeutic models in future investigations. This review centers on exploring the therapeutic potential of canine platelets across diverse disorders. Further exploration into platelet products, encompassing their preparation and applicability in canine medicine, is imperative. These inquiries hold the promise of unveiling fresh horizons for the domain of regenerative medicine.

Platelet Concentrates Preconditioning of Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Combined Therapies: Integrating Regenerative Strategies for Enhanced Clinical Applications

This article presents a comprehensive review of the factors influencing the efficacy of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) transplantation and its association with platelet concentrates (PCs). It focuses on investigating the impact of PCs' composition, the age and health status of platelet donors, application methods, and environmental factors on the outcomes of relevant treatments. In addition, it delves into the strategies and mechanisms for optimizing MSCs transplantation with PCs, encompassing preconditioning and combined therapies. Furthermore, it provides an in-depth exploration of the signaling pathways and proteomic characteristics associated with preconditioning and emphasizes the efficacy and specific effects of combined therapy. The article also introduces the latest advancements in the application of biomaterials for optimizing regenerative medical strategies, stimulating scholarly discourse on this subject. Through this comprehensive review, the primary goal is to facilitate a more profound comprehension of the factors influencing treatment outcomes, as well as the strategies and mechanisms for optimizing MSCs transplantation and the application of biomaterials in regenerative medicine, offering theoretical guidance and practical references for related research and clinical practice.

Aquaporin Expression and Regulation in Clinical and Experimental Sepsis

Sepsis is an inflammatory disorder caused by the host's dysfunctional response to infection. Septic patients present diverse clinical characteristics, and in the recent years, it has been the main cause of death in intensive care units (ICU). Aquaporins, membrane proteins with a role in water transportation, have been reported to participate in numerous biological processes. Their role in sepsis progression has been studied extensively. This review aims to examine recent literature on aquaporin expression and regulation in clinical sepsis, as well as established experimental models of sepsis. We will present how sepsis affects aquaporin expression at the molecular and protein level. Moreover, we will delve into the importance of aquaporin regulation at transcriptional, post-transcriptional, translational, and post-translational levels in sepsis by presenting data on aquaporin regulation by non-coding RNAs and selected chemical molecules. Finally, we will focus on the importance of aquaporin single-nucleotide polymorphisms in the setting of sepsis.

Advances in Stem Cell-Based Therapies in the Treatment of Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic, degenerative joint disease presenting a significant global health threat. While current therapeutic approaches primarily target symptom relief, their efficacy in repairing joint damage remains limited. Recent research has highlighted mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) as potential contributors to cartilage repair, anti-inflammatory modulation, and immune regulation in OA patients. Notably, MSCs from different sources and their derivatives exhibit variations in their effectiveness in treating OA. Moreover, pretreatment and gene editing techniques of MSCs can enhance their therapeutic outcomes in OA. Additionally, the combination of novel biomaterials with MSCs has shown promise in facilitating the repair of damaged cartilage. This review summarizes recent studies on the role of MSCs in the treatment of OA, delving into their advantages and exploring potential directions for development, with the aim of providing fresh insights for future research in this critical field.

Role of gut microbiota and bacterial translocation in acute intestinal injury and mortality in patients admitted in ICU for septic shock

Introduction

Sepsis is a life-threatening organ dysfunction with high mortality rate. The gut origin hypothesis of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome relates to loss of gut barrier function and the ensuing bacterial translocation. The aim of this study was to describe the evolution of gut microbiota in a cohort of septic shock patients over seven days and the potential link between gut microbiota and bacterial translocation.

Methods

Sixty consecutive adult patients hospitalized for septic shock in intensive care units (ICU) were prospectively enrolled. Non-inclusion criteria included patients with recent or scheduled digestive surgery, having taken laxatives, pre- or probiotic in the previous seven days, a progressive digestive neoplasia, digestive lymphoma, chronic inflammatory bowel disease, moribund patient, and pregnant and lactating patients. The primary objective was to evaluate the evolution of bacterial diversity and richness of gut microbiota during seven days in septic shock. Epidemiological, clinical and biological data were gathered over seven days. Gut microbiota was analyzed through a metagenomic approach. 100 healthy controls were selected among healthy blood donors for reference basal 16S rDNA values.

Results

Significantly lower bacterial diversity and richness was observed in gut microbiota of patients at Day 7 compared with Day 0 (p<0.01). SOFA score at Day 0, Acute Gastrointestinal Injury (AGI) local grade, septic shock origin and bacterial translocation had an impact on alpha diversity. A large increase in Enterococcus genus was observed at Day 7 with a decrease in Enterobacterales, Clostridiales, Bifidobacterium and other butyrate-producing bacteria.

Discussion

This study shows the importance of bacterial translocation during AGI in septic shock patients. This bacterial translocation decreases during hospitalization in ICUs in parallel to the decrease of microbiota diversity. This work highlights the role of gut microbiota and bacterial translocation during septic shock.

Combined signature of G protein-coupled receptors and tumor microenvironment provides a prognostic and therapeutic biomarker for skin cutaneous melanoma

BACKGROUND

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) have been shown to have an important role in tumor development and metastasis, and abnormal expression of GPCRs is significantly associated with poor prognosis of tumor patients. In this study, we analyzed the GPCRs-related gene (GPRGs) and tumor microenvironment (TME) in skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM) to construct a prognostic model to help SKCM patients obtain accurate clinical treatment strategies.

METHODS

SKCM expression data and clinical information were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases. Differential expression analysis, LASSO algorithm, and univariate and multivariate cox regression analysis were used to screen prognosis-related genes (GPR19, GPR146, S1PR2, PTH1R, ADGRE5, CXCR3, GPR143, and OR2I1P) and multiple prognosis-good immune cells; the data set was analyzed according to above results and build up a GPR-TME classifier. The model was further subjected to immune infiltration, functional enrichment, tumor mutational load, immunotherapy prediction, and scRNA-seq data analysis. Finally, cellular experiments were conducted to validate the functionality of the key gene GPR19 in the model.

RESULTS

The findings indicate that high expression of GPRGs is associated with a poor prognosis in patients with SKCM, highlighting the significant role of GPRGs and the tumor microenvironment (TME) in SKCM development. Notably, the group characterized by low GPR expression and a high TME exhibited the most favorable prognosis and immunotherapeutic efficacy. Furthermore, cellular assays demonstrated that knockdown of GPR19 significantly reduced the proliferation, migration, and invasive capabilities of melanoma cells in A375 and A2058 cell lines.

CONCLUSION

This study provides novel insights for the prognosis evaluation and treatment of melanoma, along with the identification of a new biomarker, GPR19.

Aquaporins: Potential Targets in Inflammatory Diseases

Inflammation involves a long chain of molecular reactions and cellular activity designed to repair tissue damaged by various causes. The inflammatory process and its complex mechanisms have recently become a focus of interest for many researchers. After the onset of inflammation, various adverse conditions that initiate the inflammatory response need to be addressed; however, failure to limit the inflammatory reaction may result in the damage or destruction of host cells. Therefore, inflammatory reactions play a role in many diferent diseases. Aquaporins (AQPs), commonly referred to as water channels, are protein channels responsible for forming pores in the membranes of biological cells. Their main function is to aid in the movement of water between cells. Aquaporins not only regulate transepithelial fluid transport across membranes but also play a role in regulating essential events crucial for the inflammatory response. Aquaporins have been shown in many studies to have important roles in inflammatory diseases. This clearly indicates that AQPs may be potential targets for inflammatory diseases. This review summarizes the research to date on the structure and function of AQPs and provides an update on the relationship between AQPs and various human inflammatory diseases.

Orexins and Prostate Cancer: State of the Art and Potential Experimental and Therapeutic Perspectives

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most common cancer in humans. Peptides have recently been used as targeted therapeutics in cancers, due to their extensive multi-functional applications. Two hypothalamic peptides, orexins A (OXA) and B (OXB) and their specific receptors, orexin receptor 1 (OX1R) and 2 (OX2R), orchestrate several biological processes in the central nervous system and peripheral organs. However, in addition to their role in physiological responses, orexins are involved in numerous inflammatory and/or neoplastic pathologies. The presence and expression of orexins in different cancer models, including prostate cancer, and their role in inducing pro- or anti-apoptotic responses in tumor cell lines, suggest that the orexinergic system might have potential therapeutic action or function as a diagnostic marker in PCa. In addition to the traditional animal models for studying human PCa, the canine model might also serve as an additional tool, due to its clinical similarities with human prostate cancer.

Linking stress with urocortin in rats

The corticotropin-releasing factor neuropeptides (CRH and UCN-1,2,3), as well as spexin, contribute to the control of energy balance and limit food intake in mammals. However, the role of these neuropeptides in chronic variable stress remains unknown. The effect of chronic varied stress on circulating corticosterone levels and urocortin expression levels in the brains of experimental rats was studied in this study. Rats were subjected with 28 days long term stress protocol, end of stress protocol experimental and control animal organs isolated, brain urocorcortin-1,2,3 expression by RT-PCR and serum corticosterone by ELISA method. UCN levels in the brain were altered in rats subjected to prolonged varied stress. Furthermore, corticosterone levels were elevated as a result of the same urocortin expression pattern, indicating that urocortin expression is controlled by glucocorticoids via a glucocorticoid-responsive element (GRE). Thus, data shows that hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, also known as the LHPA axis, and limbic system are both stimulated by stress, which is reflected in the form of elevated corticosterone levels, according to the genes UCN1, 2, and 3.

Curcumin analog GO-Y030 inhibits tumor metastasis and glycolysis

Tumor metastasis is one of the worst prognostic features of cancer. Although metastasis is a major cause of cancer-related deaths, an effective treatment has not yet been established. Here, we explore the antitumor effects of GO-Y030, a curcumin analog, via various mechanisms using a mouse model. GO-Y030 treatment of B16-F10 melanoma cells inhibited TGF-β expression and glycolysis. The invasion assay results showed almost complete invasion inhibition following GO-Y030 treatment. Mouse experiments demonstrated that GO-Y030 administration inhibited lung tumor metastasis without affecting vascular endothelial cells. Consistent with this result, GO-Y030 treatment led to the downregulation of MMP2 and VEGFα, inhibiting tumor invasion and metastasis. The silencing of eIF4B, a downstream molecule of S6, attenuated MMP2 expression. Our study demonstrates the novel efficacy of GO-Y030 in inhibiting tumor metastasis by regulating metastasis-associated gene expression via inhibiting dual access, glycolytic and TGF-β pathways.

Roles and regulation of Aquaporin-3 in maintaining the gut health: an updated review

Aquaporin-3 (AQP3) is a predominant water channel protein expressed in the intestine, and plays important roles in the gut physiology and pathophysiology due to its permeability to water, glycerol and hydrogen peroxide. In this review, we systematically summarized the current understanding of the expression of AQP3 in the intestine of different species, and focused on the potential roles of AQP3 in water transport, different types of diarrhea and constipation, intestinal inflammation, intestinal barrier function, oxidative stress, and autophagy. These updated findings have supported that AQP3 may function as an important target in maintaining gut health of human and animals.

Discrimination between the effects of pulsed electrical stimulation and electrochemically conditioned medium on human osteoblasts

BACKGROUND

Electrical stimulation is used for enhanced bone fracture healing. Electrochemical processes occur during the electrical stimulation at the electrodes and influence cellular reactions. Our approach aimed to distinguish between electrochemical and electric field effects on osteoblast-like MG-63 cells. We applied 20 Hz biphasic pulses via platinum electrodes for 2 h. The electrical stimulation of the cell culture medium and subsequent application to cells was compared to directly stimulated cells. The electric field distribution was predicted using a digital twin.

RESULTS

Cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy revealed partial electrolysis at the electrodes, which was confirmed by increased concentrations of hydrogen peroxide in the medium. While both direct stimulation and AC-conditioned medium decreased cell adhesion and spreading, only the direct stimulation enhanced the intracellular calcium ions and reactive oxygen species.

CONCLUSION

The electrochemical by-product hydrogen peroxide is not the main contributor to the cellular effects of electrical stimulation. However, undesired effects like decreased adhesion are mediated through electrochemical products in stimulated medium. Detailed characterisation and monitoring of the stimulation set up and electrochemical reactions are necessary to find safe electrical stimulation protocols.

Construction of a prognostic 6-gene signature for breast cancer based on multi-omics and single-cell data

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer (BC) is one of the females' most common malignant tumors there are large individual differences in its prognosis. We intended to uncover novel useful genetic biomarkers and a risk signature for BC to aid determining clinical strategies.

METHODS

A combined significance (p combined) was calculated for each gene by Fisher's method based on the RNA-seq, CNV, and DNA methylation data from TCGA-BRCA. Genes with a p combined< 0.01 were subjected to univariate cox and Lasso regression, whereby an RS signature was established. The predicted performance of the RS signature would be assessed in GSE7390 and GSE20685, and emphatically analyzed in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) patients, while the expression of immune checkpoints and drug sensitivity were also examined. GSE176078, a single-cell dataset, was used to validate the differences in cellular composition in tumors between TNBC patients with different RS.

RESULTS

The RS signature consisted of C15orf52, C1orf228, CEL, FUZ, PAK6, and SIRPG showed good performance. It could distinguish the prognosis of patients well, even stratified by disease stages or subtypes and also showed a stronger predictive ability than traditional clinical indicators. The down-regulated expressions of many immune checkpoints, while the decreased sensitivity of many antitumor drugs was observed in TNBC patients with higher RS. The overall cells and lymphocytes composition differed between patients with different RS, which could facilitate a more personalized treatment.

CONCLUSION

The six genes RS signature established based on multi-omics data exhibited well performance in predicting the prognosis of BC patients, regardless of disease stages or subtypes. Contributing to a more personalized treatment, our signature might benefit the outcome of BC patients.

Aquaporin 9 causes recurrent spontaneous abortion by inhibiting trophoblast cell epithelial-mesenchymal transformation and invasion through the PI3K/AKT pathway†

BACKGROUND

Invasion of the endometrium by trophoblast cells is a key event during pregnancy, although the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Aquaporin 9 (AQP 9) is expressed in many eukaryotes and is associated with cell invasion. The objective of this study was to evaluate the significance of AQP9 in recurrent spontaneous abortion.

METHODS

We screened the GSE22490 dataset and further differentiated aquaporin 9 expression in villi. AQP9 was evaluated as one of the key factors in abortion by injecting AQP9 overexpressed plasmid into the uterus of CD1 mice. Trophoblast cells were transfected with AQP9-overexpressing plasmid or siAQP9 to measure cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis. Western blot was used to measure changes in the expression of invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transformation process, and PI3K/AKT pathway. Finally, the role of AQP9 in PI3K/AKT signaling pathway was determined using the PI3K/AKT inhibitor, LY294002, and activator, 740Y-P.

RESULTS

AQP9 is highly expressed in recurrent spontaneous abortion villus. Intrauterine injections of AQP9-overexpressing plasmid into CD1 mice resulted in atrophy and blackness of the gestational sac and increased the absorption rate, it is the causative factor of abortion. AQP9 upregulation inhibited the proliferation, invasion, migration, and epithelial-mesenchymal transformation process in vitro of trophoblast cells and increased cell apoptosis. The opposite result was observed after silencing AQP9. AQP9 overexpression also inhibited the PI3K/AKT pathway. LY294002 and 740Y-P partially recovered AQP9-induced trophoblast invasion and migration via the PI3K/AKT pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

AQP9 reduces the invasive ability of trophoblast cells by regulating PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, participating in recurrent spontaneous abortion.

Mesenchymal Stem Cells in the Pathogenesis and Therapy of Autoimmune and Autoinflammatory Diseases

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) modulate immune responses and maintain self-tolerance. Their trophic activities and regenerative properties make them potential immunosuppressants for treating autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases. MSCs are drawn to sites of injury and inflammation where they can both reduce inflammation and contribute to tissue regeneration. An increased understanding of the role of MSCs in the development and progression of autoimmune disorders has revealed that MSCs are passive targets in the inflammatory process, becoming impaired by it and exhibiting loss of immunomodulatory activity. MSCs have been considered as potential novel cell therapies for severe autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases, which at present have only disease modifying rather than curative treatment options. MSCs are emerging as potential therapies for severe autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases. Clinical application of MSCs in rare cases of severe disease in which other existing treatment modalities have failed, have demonstrated potential use in treating multiple diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, myocardial infarction, liver cirrhosis, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, and COVID-19 pneumonia. This review explores the biological mechanisms behind the role of MSCs in autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases. It also covers their immunomodulatory capabilities, potential therapeutic applications, and the challenges and risks associated with MSC therapy.