Rutin inhibits β-amyloid aggregation and cytotoxicity, attenuates oxidative stress, and decreases the production of nitric oxide and proinflammatory cytokines

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a complex, multi-factorial neurodegenerative disease. The aggregation of soluble β-amyloid (Aβ) into fibrillar deposits is a pathological hallmark of AD. The Aβ aggregate-induced neurotoxicity, inflammatory reactions, oxidative stress, and nitric oxide (NO) generation are strongly linked to the etiology of AD. Here, we show that the common dietary flavonoid, rutin, can dose-dependently inhibit Aβ42 fibrillization and attenuate Aβ42-induced cytotoxicity in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells. Moreover, rutin decreases the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), NO, glutathione disulfide (GSSG), and malondialdehyde (MDA), reduces inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) activity, attenuates mitochondrial damage, increases the glutathione (GSH)/GSSG ratio, enhances the activities of super oxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and modulates the production of proinflammatory cytokines by decreasing TNF-α and IL-1β generation in microglia. Taken together, the actions of rutin on multiple pathogenic factors deserves further investigation for the prevention and treatment of AD.

GPCRs and cancer

G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), which represent the largest gene family in the human genome, play a crucial role in multiple physiological functions as well as in tumor growth and metastasis. For instance, various molecules like hormones, lipids, peptides and neurotransmitters exert their biological effects by binding to these seven-transmembrane receptors coupled to heterotrimeric G-proteins, which are highly specialized transducers able to modulate diverse signaling pathways. Furthermore, numerous responses mediated by GPCRs are not dependent on a single biochemical route, but result from the integration of an intricate network of transduction cascades involved in many physiological activities and tumor development. This review highlights the emerging information on the various responses mediated by a selected choice of GPCRs and the molecular mechanisms by which these receptors exert a primary action in cancer progression. These findings provide a broad overview on the biological activity elicited by GPCRs in tumor cells and contribute to the identification of novel pharmacological approaches for cancer patients.

Reflux and sex: what drives testing, what drives treatment?

Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) affects ∼10-20% of American adults. Although symptoms are equally common in men and women, we hypothesized that sex influences diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in patients with GER. PubMed database between 1997 and October 2011 was searched for English language studies describing symptoms, consultative visits, endoscopic findings, use and results of ambulatory pH study, and surgical therapy for GER. Using data from Nationwide Inpatient Sample, Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, we determined the sex distribution for admissions and reflux surgery between 1997 and 2008. Studies on symptoms or consultative visits did not show sex-specific differences. Even though women are less likely to have esophagitis or Barrett's esophagus, endoscopic studies enrolled as many women as men, and women were more likely to undergo ambulatory pH studies with a female predominance in studies from the US. Surgical GER treatment is more commonly performed in men. However, studies from the US showed an equal sex distribution, with Nationwide Inpatient Sample data demonstrating an increase in women who accounted for 63% of the annual fundoplications in 2008. Despite less common or severe mucosal disease, women are more likely to undergo invasive diagnostic testing. In the US, women are also more likely to undergo antireflux surgery. These results suggest that healthcare-seeking behavior and socioeconomic factors rather than the biology of disease influence the clinical approaches to reflux disease.

The role and pathophysiological relevance of membrane transporter PepT1 in intestinal inflammation and inflammatory bowel disease

Intestinal inflammation is characterized by epithelial disruption, leading to loss of barrier function and the recruitment of immune cells, including neutrophils. Although the mechanisms are not yet completely understood, interactions between environmental and immunological factors are thought to be critical in the initiation and progression of intestinal inflammation. In recent years, it has become apparent that the di/tripeptide transporter PepT1 may play an important role in the pathogenesis of such inflammation. In healthy individuals, PepT1 is primarily expressed in the small intestine and transports di/tripeptides for metabolic purposes. However, during chronic inflammation such as that associated with inflammatory bowel disease, PepT1 expression is upregulated in the colon, wherein the protein is normally expressed either minimally or not at all. Several recent studies have shown that PepT1 binds to and transports various bacterial di/tripeptides into colon cells, leading to activation of downstream proinflammatory responses via peptide interactions with innate immune receptors. In the present review, we examine the relationship between colonic PepT1-mediated peptide transport in the colon and activation of innate immune responses during disease. It is important to understand the mechanisms of PepT1 action during chronic intestinal inflammation to develop future therapies addressing inappropriate immune activation in the colon.

Effects of oral finasteride on erectile function in a rat model

INTRODUCTION

Many clinical studies reported finasteride-related erectile dysfunction, but to date, few animal experiments have focused on it.

AIM

To investigate the effects of oral finasteride on erectile function in a rat model.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Erectile responses and morphological changes.

METHODS

Adult, male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups (25/group): (i) control; (ii) castration; (iii) castration with testosterone (T) replacement; and (iv) oral finasteride treatment. Four weeks later, erectile function was measured by the ratio of intracavernosal pressure and mean arterial blood pressure upon electrical stimulation of the cavernous nerve. Serum T and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and intraprostatic DHT were measured. The weights and histopathological features of the penile corpus cavernosum and prostate were examined.

RESULTS

Serum T and DHT and intraprostatic DHT concentrations, erectile function, and mean weights of the corpus cavernosum and prostate were lowest in group 2. There was no significant difference in the serum T concentration and erectile function between groups 4 and 1. However, the serum and intraprostatic DHT concentrations were significantly lower in group 4 than in group 1 (both P < 0.001). The tissue weights of the corpus cavernosum and prostate were reduced by 25.9% and 92.3% in group 4 compared with group 1 (both P < 0.001). Histopathology revealed a significant atrophy of the prostate in groups 2 and 4. There was a significant decrease in the smooth muscle content in group 2, but not in groups 3 and 4.

CONCLUSIONS

In a rat model, finasteride treatment for 4 weeks reduces the weight of the corpus cavernosum but appears not to affect the erectile responses to electrical stimulation of the cavernous nerve. As erection is a complex process involving important signaling in the brain, further studies are necessary to demonstrate the long-term effects of finasteride on both central and peripheral neural pathways of erection.

Advances in understanding the relationship between lipid metabolism and colorectal carcinoma

In recent years, the morbidity and mortality of colorectal carcinoma (CRC) have been increasing and it has become a serious threat to human health. In the research of the development of CRC, more and more researchers are concerned about the relationship between lipid metabolism and CRC. High-fat diets are more likely to cause CRC. Different types of lipids may play an opposite role in the formation and development of CRC. There are various hypotheses explaining the effect of lipid metabolism on the pathogenesis of CRC, and further studies are needed to confirm them. Elucidation of the relationship between lipid metabolism and CRC will be beneficial to the diagnosis and therapy of this malignancy.

Mediation of glucolipotoxicity in INS-1 rat insulinoma cells by small heterodimer partner interacting leucine zipper protein (SMILE)

Sustained elevations of glucose and free fatty acid concentration have deleterious effects on pancreatic beta cell function. One of the hallmarks of such glucolipotoxicity is a reduction in insulin gene expression, resulting from decreased insulin promoter activity. Sterol regulatory element binding protein-1c (SREBP-1c), a lipogenic transcription factor, is related to the development of beta cell dysfunction caused by elevated concentrations of glucose and free fatty acid. Small heterodimer partner (SHP) interacting leucine zipper protein (SMILE), also known as Zhangfei, is a novel protein which interacts with SHP that mediates glucotoxicity in INS-1 rat insulinoma cells. Treatment of INS-1 cells with high concentrations of glucose and palmitate increased SREBP-1c and SMILE expression, and decreased insulin gene expression. Adenovirus-mediated overexpression of SREBP-1c in INS-1 cells induced SMILE expression. Moreover, adenovirus-mediated overexpression of SMILE (Ad-SMILE) in INS-1 cells impaired glucose-stimulated insulin secretion as well as insulin gene expression. Ad-SMILE overexpression also inhibited the expression of beta-cell enriched transcription factors including pancreatic duodenal homeobox factor-1, beta cell E box transactivator 2 and RIPE3b1/MafA, in INS-1 cells. Finally, in COS-1 cells, expression of SMILE inhibited the insulin promoter activity induced by these same beta-cell enriched transcription factors. These results collectively suggest that SMILE plays an important role in the development of beta cell dysfunction induced by glucolipotoxicity.

Identification of miR-508-3p and miR-509-3p that are associated with cell invasion and migration and involved in the apoptosis of renal cell carcinoma

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as powerful regulators of multiple processes linked to human cancer, including cell apoptosis, proliferation and migration, suggesting that the regulation of miRNA function could play a critical role in cancer progression. Recent studies have found that human serum/plasma contains stably expressed miRNAs. If they prove indicative of disease states, miRNAs measured from peripheral blood samples may be a source for routine clinical detection of cancer. Our studies showed that both miR-508-3p and miR-509-3p were down-regulated in renal cancer tissues. The level of miR-508-3p but not miR-509-3p in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patient plasma demonstrated significant differences from that in control plasma. In addition, the overexpression of miR-508-3p and miR-509-3p suppressed the proliferation of RCC cells (786-0), induced cell apoptosis and inhibited cell migration in vitro. Our data demonstrated that miR-508-3p and miR-509-3p played an important role as tumor suppressor genes during tumor formation and that they may serve as novel diagnostic markers for RCC.

Pericellular pH homeostasis is a primary function of the Warburg effect: inversion of metabolic systems to control lactate steady state in tumor cells

The Warburg effect describes a heightened propensity of tumor cells to produce lactic acid in the presence or absence of O(2) . A generally held notion is that the Warburg effect is related to energy. Using whole-genome, proteomic MALDI-TOF-MS and metabolite analysis, we investigated the Warburg effect in malignant neuroblastoma N2a cells. The findings show that the Warburg effect serves a functional role in regulating acidic pericellular pH (pHe), which is mediated by metabolic inversion or a fluctuating dominance between glycolytic-rate substrate level phosphorylation (SLP) and mitochondrial (mt) oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) to control lactic acid production. The results also show that an alkaline pHe caused an elevation in SLP/OXPHOS ratio (approximately 98% SLP/OXPHOS); while the ratio was approximately 56% at neutral pHe and approximately 93% in acidic pHe. Acidic pHe paralleled greater expression of mitochondrial biogenesis and OXPHOS genes, such as complex III-V (Uqcr10, Atp5 and Cox7c), mt Fmc1, Romo1, Tmem 173, Tomm6, aldehyde dehydrogenase, mt Sod2 mt biogenesis component PPAR-γ co-activator 1 adjunct to loss of mt fission (Mff). Moreover, acidic pHe corresponded to metabolic efficiency evidenced by a rise in mTOR nutrient sensor GβL, its downstream target (Eif4ebp1), insulin modulators (Trib3 and Fetub) and loss of catabolic (Hadhb, Bdh1 and Pygl)/glycolytic processes (aldolase C, pyruvate kinase, Nampt and aldose-reductase). In contrast, alkaline pHe initiated loss of mitofusin 2, complex II-IV (Sdhaf1, Uqcrq, Cox4i2 and Aldh1l2), aconitase, mitochondrial carrier triple repeat 1 and mt biosynthetic (Coq2, Coq5 and Coq9). In conclusion, the Warburg effect might serve as a negative feedback loop that regulates the pHe toward a broad acidic range by altering lactic acid production through inversion of metabolic systems. These effects were independent of changes in O(2) concentration or glucose supply.

Microglia function in Alzheimer's disease

Contrary to early views, we now know that systemic inflammatory/immune responses transmit to the brain. The microglia, the resident "macrophages" of the brain's innate immune system, are most responsive, and increasing evidence suggests that they enter a hyper-reactive state in neurodegenerative conditions and aging. As sustained over-production of microglial pro-inflammatory mediators is neurotoxic, this raises great concern that systemic inflammation (that also escalates with aging) exacerbates or possibly triggers, neurological diseases (Alzheimer's, prion, motoneuron disease). It is known that inflammation has an essential role in the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD), since amyloid-β (Aβ) is able to activate microglia, initiating an inflammatory response, which could have different consequences for neuronal survival. On one hand, microglia may delay the progression of AD by contributing to the clearance of Aβ, since they phagocyte Aβ and release enzymes responsible for Aβ degradation. Microglia also secrete growth factors and anti-inflammatory cytokines, which are neuroprotective. In addition, microglia removal of damaged cells is a very important step in the restoration of the normal brain environment, as if left such cells can become potent inflammatory stimuli, resulting in yet further tissue damage. On the other hand, as we age microglia become steadily less efficient at these processes, tending to become over-activated in response to stimulation and instigating too potent a reaction, which may cause neuronal damage in its own right. Therefore, it is critical to understand the state of activation of microglia in different AD stages to be able to determine the effect of potential anti-inflammatory therapies. We discuss here recent evidence supporting both the beneficial or detrimental performance of microglia in AD, and the attempt to find molecules/biomarkers for early diagnosis or therapeutic interventions.

Effect of D-alanine in teichoic acid from the Streptococcus thermophilus cell wall on the barrier-protection of intestinal epithelial cells

D-Alanylation of teichoic acid (TA) affects various functions of Gram-positive bacteria, including immunomodulatory effects. We investigated in this study the impact of D-alanine (D-Ala) in TA from Streptococcus thermophilus ATCC 19258(T) on the barrier-protecting effect in human intestinal Caco-2 cells. ATCC 19258(T) suppressed the tumor necrosis factor-α-induced decrease in transepithelial electrical resistance (TER), an indicator of the barrier function. The D-alanylation of TA in ATCC 19258(T) was growth phase- and culture temperature-dependent. Treatment of ATCC 19258(T) with Mg(2+) decreased the dlt mRNA expression and D-Ala content in TA and also abolished the suppressive effect on the TER decrease. Supplementation with L-alanine (L-Ala) to the broth led to an increase of D-Ala in ATCC 19258(T) and of the intestinal barrier-protecting effect. Taken together, D-Ala in TA played an important role in the barrier-protecting effect of S. thermophilus in the intestinal epithelium, and these beneficial effects could be enhanced by exogenous L-Ala.

Involvement of the mannose receptor and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway of the microdomain of the integral membrane protein after enteropathogenic Escherichia coli infection

The microdomain of the integral membrane protein (MIMP) has been shown to adhere to mucin and to antagonize the adhesion of enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) to epithelial cells; however, the mechanism has not been fully elucidated. In this study, we further identified the receptor of MIMP on NCM460 cells and investigated the mechanism (the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase [MAPK] pathway) following the interaction of MIMP and its corresponding receptor, mannose receptor. We first identified the target receptor of MIMP on the surfaces of NCM460 cells using immunoprecipitation-mass spectrometry technology. We also verified the mannose receptor and examined the degradation and activation of the p38 MAPK signaling pathway. The results indicated that MIMP adhered to NCM460 cells by binding to the mannose receptor and inhibited the phosphorylation of p38 MAPK stimulated after EPEC infection via inhibition of the Toll-like receptor 5 pathway. These findings indicated that MIMPs relieve the injury of NCM460 cells after enteropathogenic E. coli infection through the mannose receptor and inhibition of the p38 MAPK signaling pathway, both of which may therefore be potential therapeutic targets for intestinal diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease.

A Novel prognostic scoring system to predict 3-month mortality risk in patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure in hepatitis B: a retrospective cohort study

PURPOSE

The present study was done to establish an objective, sensitive prognostic scoring system and to determine the applicability of this model in predicting the 3-month mortality of patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure in hepatitis B (ACLFB).

METHODS

We developed a novel prognostic scoring system, calculated from six clinical indices including serum total bilirubin, prothrombin activity, serum creatinine, hepatic encephalopathy, infections, and the depth of ascites from 499 patients with ACLFB. Differences in the sensitivity, specificity, and practicality of a Novel prognostic scoring system and the model of end-stage liver disease (MELD) were analyzed.

RESULTS

The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) for the Novel scoring systems and MELD scoring systems were 0.967 (95% CI, 0.956-0.977) and 0.900 (95% CI, 0.878-0.922), respectively. The analysis of the ROC curve indicated that the Novel scoring systems were an exact, pertinent, and objective prognostic model with greater accuracy than the MELD. In the Novel scoring systems, the survival rate of these patients whose scores ranged from 2 to 6 was 98.80%, while for those whose scores point at 7 and 15, the mortality rates were 8.70% (2/23) and 95.45% (21/22), respectively, and the mortality rate of these patients whose scores were 16 and above was 100.00%. However, in the MELD prognostic scoring systems, there were no score ranges with 100.00% survival rate.

CONCLUSIONS

We developed an objective, pertinent, and sensitive prognostic scoring system that predicted the 3-month mortality of patients with ACLFB with greater accuracy than the MELD.

MetastamiRs: non-coding MicroRNAs driving cancer invasion and metastasis

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs of ~22 nucleotides that function as negative regulators of gene expression by either inhibiting translation or inducing deadenylation-dependent degradation of target transcripts. Notably, deregulation of miRNAs expression is associated with the initiation and progression of human cancers where they act as oncogenes or tumor suppressors contributing to tumorigenesis. Abnormal miRNA expression may provide potential diagnostic and prognostic tumor biomarkers and new therapeutic targets in cancer. Recently, several miRNAs have been shown to initiate invasion and metastasis by targeting multiple proteins that are major players in these cellular events, thus they have been denominated as metastamiRs. Here, we present a review of the current knowledge of miRNAs in cancer with a special focus on metastamiRs. In addition we discuss their potential use as novel specific markers for cancer progression.

MicroRNAs - Important Molecules in Lung Cancer Research

MicroRNAs (miRNA) are important regulators of gene expression. They are involved in many physiological processes ensuring the cellular homeostasis of human cells. Alterations of the miRNA expression have increasingly been associated with pathophysiologic changes of cancer cells making miRNAs currently to one of the most analyzed molecules in cancer research. Here, we provide an overview of miRNAs in lung cancer. Specifically, we address biological functions of miRNAs in lung cancer cells, miRNA signatures generated from tumor tissue and from patients’ body fluids, the potential of miRNAs as diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for lung cancer, and its role as therapeutic target.

Protons and Ca2+: ionic allies in tumor progression?

Ion channels and G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) play a fundamental role in cancer progression by influencing Ca(2+) influx and signaling pathways in transformed cells. Transformed cells thrive in a hostile environment that is characterized by extracellular acidosis that promotes the pathological phenotype. The pathway(s) by which extracellular protons achieve this remain unclear. Here, a role for proton-sensing ion channels and GPCRs as mediators of the effects of extracellular protons in cancer cells is discussed.

Parkinson's disease therapeutics: new developments and challenges since the introduction of levodopa

The demonstration that dopamine loss is the key pathological feature of Parkinson's disease (PD), and the subsequent introduction of levodopa have revolutionalized the field of PD therapeutics. This review will discuss the significant progress that has been made in the development of new pharmacological and surgical tools to treat PD motor symptoms since this major breakthrough in the 1960s. However, we will also highlight some of the challenges the field of PD therapeutics has been struggling with during the past decades. The lack of neuroprotective therapies and the limited treatment strategies for the nonmotor symptoms of the disease (ie, cognitive impairments, autonomic dysfunctions, psychiatric disorders, etc.) are among the most pressing issues to be addressed in the years to come. It appears that the combination of early PD nonmotor symptoms with imaging of the nigrostriatal dopaminergic system offers a promising path toward the identification of PD biomarkers, which, once characterized, will set the stage for efficient use of neuroprotective agents that could slow down and alter the course of the disease.

Arabidopsis RGLG2, functioning as a RING E3 ligase, interacts with AtERF53 and negatively regulates the plant drought stress response

Transcriptional activities of plants play important roles in responses to environmental stresses. ETHYLENE RESPONSE FACTOR53 (AtERF53) is a drought-induced transcription factor that belongs to the AP2/ERF superfamily and has a highly conserved AP2 domain. It can regulate drought-responsive gene expression by binding to the GCC box and/or the dehydration-responsive element in the promoter of downstream genes. Overexpression of AtERF53 driven by the cauliflower mosaic virus 35S promoter resulted in an unstable drought-tolerant phenotype in T2 transgenic Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) plants. Using a yeast two-hybrid screen, we identified a RING domain ubiquitin E3 ligase, RGLG2, which interacts with AtERF53 in the nucleus. The copine domain of RGLG2 exhibited the strongest interacting activity. We also demonstrated that RGLG2 could move from the plasma membrane to the nucleus under stress treatment. Using an in vitro ubiquitination assay, RGLG2 and its closest sequelog, RGLG1, were shown to have E3 ligase activity and mediated AtERF53 ubiquitination for proteasome degradation. The rglg1rglg2 double mutant but not the rglg2 or rglg1 single mutant exhibited a drought-tolerant phenotype when compared with wild-type plants. AtERF53-green fluorescent proteins expressed in the rglg1rglg2 double mutants were stable. The 35S:AtERF53-green fluorescent protein/rglg1rglg2 showed enhanced AtERF53-regulated gene expression and had greater tolerance to drought stress than the rglg1rglg2 double mutant. In conclusion, RGLG2 negatively regulates the drought stress response by mediating AtERF53 transcriptional activity in Arabidopsis.

Molecular partners for interaction and cell internalization of cell-penetrating peptides: how identical are they?

Cell-penetrating peptides are short basic peptide sequences that might display amphipathic properties. These positively charged peptides internalize into all cell types, albeit with different efficiency. Cell-penetrating peptides use all routes of pinocytosis to internalize, in addition to direct membrane translocation that requires interaction with lipid membrane domains. These differences in internalization efficiency according to the peptide sequence and cell type suggest that the cell-penetrating peptides interact with different molecular partners at the cell surface. This review will first report on data that describe the molecular interaction of the most popular cell-penetrating peptides (penetratin, Tat and oligoarginine) with carbohydrates and lipids. The second part of the review will be dedicated to cell studies that have reported how cell surface composition influences cell internalization. Discussion will focus on the gap between in vitro and in cellulo studies, and more specifically to which extent the interaction with molecules found in membranes reflect the internalization efficiency of the peptides.

Silencing TRPM7 mimics the effects of magnesium deficiency in human microvascular endothelial cells

Evidence has accumulated to suggest that magnesium might play a role in controlling angiogenesis. Since microvascular endothelial cells are protagonists in this process, we investigated the behavior of these cells cultured in low extracellular magnesium or silenced for its transporter Transient Receptor Potential Melastatin (TRPM)7, essential for cellular magnesium homeostasis. In particular, we focused on some crucial steps of the angiogenic process, i.e. proliferation, migration, protease production and organization in tridimensional structures. Silencing TRPM7 mimics the effects of low extracellular magnesium on human microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC). Indeed, while no effects were observed on the production of metalloproteases and on tridimensional organization on matrigel, both magnesium deficiency and silencing of TRPM7 impair cell migration and inhibit growth by arresting the cells in the G0/G1 and G2/M phases of the cell cycle. Since low extracellular magnesium markedly decreases TRPM7 in HMEC, we suggest that TRPM7 downregulation might mediate low magnesium-induced inhibition of cell growth and migration. Human endothelial cells from the umbilical vein are growth inhibited by low magnesium and growth stimulated after TRPM7 silencing. An impairment of ERK phosphorylation in HMEC silencing TRPM7 is responsible, in part, for the different proliferative behavior of these two cell types. We broadened our studies also to endothelial colony-forming cells and found that they are sensitive to fluctuations of the concentrations of extracellular magnesium, while their proliferation rate is not modulated by TRPM7 silencing. Our results point to magnesium and TRPM7 as a modulators of the angiogenic phenotype of microvascular endothelial cells.

ABO blood group, hepatitis B viral infection and risk of pancreatic cancer

Little is known about the role of association between ABO blood type and risk of pancreatic cancer develops through effects on hepatitis B viral (HBV) infection. Our study aimed to determine whether joint ABO blood type and HBV infection could increase the risk for pancreatic cancer. A total of 645 patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma and 711 age- and sex-matched individuals who had nonmalignant diseases treated at the Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center in China were retrospectively analyzed. Blood samples were tested for ABO blood type and hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs), hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg), hepatitis B e antibody (anti-HBe) and hepatitis B core antibody (anti-HBc). Multivariable unconditional logistic regression analysis was used to estimate adjusted odds ratios [AORs] and 95% confidence interval [CI]. Multivariable analysis with adjustment for risk factors showed that A blood type, HBsAg-positive/anti-HBc-positive, anti-HBs-positive/anti-HBc-positive were significantly associated with pancreatic cancer. The estimated AORs (95% CI) were as follows: A blood type, 1.425 (1.071-1.894), HBsAg-positive/anti-HBc-positive, 1.610 (1.125-2.304), anti-HBs-positive/anti-HBc-positive, 1.526 (1.159-2.011). The effect of A blood type significantly modified the risk of pancreatic cancer among subjects with anti-HBc-positive (AORs = 1.882, 95% CI, 1.284-2.760). In our study, we reported an association between A blood type, infection with HBV and pancreatic cancer risk. Moreover, we found a synergism between A blood type and HBV infection in the development of pancreatic cancer.

Mesenchymal stem cell-mediated cancer therapy: A dual-targeted strategy of personalized medicine

Cancer remains one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity throughout the world. To a significant extent, current conventional cancer therapies are symptomatic and passive in nature. The major obstacle to the development of effective cancer therapy is believed to be the absence of sufficient specificity. Since the discovery of the tumor-oriented homing capacity of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), the application of specific anticancer gene-engineered MSCs has held great potential for cancer therapies. The dual-targeted strategy is based on MSCs' capacity of tumor-directed migration and incorporation and in situ expression of tumor-specific anticancer genes. With the aim of translating bench work into meaningful clinical applications, we describe the tumor tropism of MSCs and their use as therapeutic vehicles, the dual-targeted anticancer potential of engineered MSCs and a putative personalized strategy with anticancer gene-engineered MSCs.

Lysate of probiotic Lactobacillus casei DN-114 001 ameliorates colitis by strengthening the gut barrier function and changing the gut microenvironment

Background

Probiotic bacteria can be used for the prevention and treatment of human inflammatory diseases including inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). However, the nature of active components and exact mechanisms of this beneficial effects have not been fully elucidated. Our aim was to investigate if lysate of probiotic bacterium L. casei DN-114 001 (Lc) could decrease the severity of intestinal inflammation in a murine model of IBD.

Methodology/Principal Findings

The preventive effect of oral administration of Lc significantly reduces the severity of acute dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) colitis in BALB/c but not in SCID mice. In order to analyze how this beneficial effect interferes with well-known phases of intestinal inflammation pathogenesis in vivo and in vitro, we evaluated intestinal permeability using the FITC-labeled dextran method and analysed tight junction proteins expression by immunofluorescence and PCR. We also measured CD4⁺FoxP3⁺ regulatory T cells proportion by FACS analysis, microbiota composition by pyrosequencing, and local cytokine production by ELISA. Lc leads to a significant protection against increased intestinal permeability and barrier dysfunction shown by preserved ZO-1 expression. We found that the Lc treatment increases the numbers of CD4⁺FoxP3⁺ regulatory T cells in mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN), decreases production of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IFN-γ, and anti-inflammatory IL-10 in Peyer's patches and large intestine, and changes the gut microbiota composition. Moreover, Lc treatment prevents lipopolysaccharide-induced TNF-α expression in RAW 264.7 cell line by down-regulating the NF-κB signaling pathway.

Conclusion/Significance

Our study provided evidence that even non-living probiotic bacteria can prevent the development of severe forms of intestinal inflammation by strengthening the integrity of intestinal barrier and modulation of gut microenvironment.

Assessing the contribution of inflammation in models of Alzheimer's disease

Inflammation has long been proposed as having a role in AD (Alzheimer's disease), although it remains unclear whether inflammation represents a cause or consequence of AD. Evidence from the clinical setting in support of a role for inflammation in AD includes increased expression of inflammatory mediators and microglial activation in the post-mortem AD brain. Also, epidemiological studies on AD patients under long-term treatment with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs suggest some benefits, although recent prospective trials showed no effect. Furthermore, in AD patients, infection and other systemic inflammatory events worsen symptoms. Finally, several inflammatory genes are associated with increased risk of AD. Therefore, to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of AD and the role of inflammation, researchers have turned to experimental models and here we present a short overview of some key findings from these studies. Activation of microglia is seen in various transgenic models of AD, with both a protective role and a detrimental role being ascribed to it. Early microglial activation is probably beneficial in AD, through phagocytosis of amyloid β-peptide. At later stages however, pro-inflammatory cytokine release from microglia could contribute to neuronal demise. A better understanding of microglial phenotype at the various stages of AD is therefore still required. Although most studies suggest a detrimental role for pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-1 and tumour necrosis factor in AD, contradictory findings do exist. Age-related and differential cellular expression of these inflammatory mediators is probably a key determinant of their exact contribution to AD. In conclusion, there is no doubt that inflammatory processes are part of the pathophysiology of AD, but a better understanding of the exact contribution at different stages of the disease process is still required before appropriate treatment strategies can be devised.

Engineering cold stress tolerance in crop plants

Plants respond with changes in their pattern of gene expression and protein products when exposed to low temperatures. Thus ability to adapt has an impact on the distribution and survival of the plant, and on crop yields. Many species of tropical or subtropical origin are injured or killed by non-freezing low temperatures, and exhibit various symptoms of chilling injury such as chlorosis, necrosis, or growth retardation. In contrast, chilling tolerant species are able to grow at such cold temperatures. Conventional breeding methods have met with limited success in improving the cold tolerance of important crop plants involving inter-specific or inter-generic hybridization. Recent studies involving full genome profiling/ sequencing, mutational and transgenic plant analyses, have provided a deep insight of the complex transcriptional mechanism that operates under cold stress. The alterations in expression of genes in response to cold temperatures are followed by increases in the levels of hundreds of metabolites, some of which are known to have protective effects against the damaging effects of cold stress. Various low temperature inducible genes have been isolated from plants. Most appear to be involved in tolerance to cold stress and the expression of some of them is regulated by C-repeat binding factor/ dehydration-responsive element binding (CBF/DREB1) transcription factors. Numerous physiological and molecular changes occur during cold acclimation which reveals that the cold resistance is more complex than perceived and involves more than one pathway. The findings summarized in this review have shown potential practical applications for breeding cold tolerance in crop and horticultural plants suitable to temperate geographical locations.

Correlation between miR-183 expression and pathological features of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

AIM: To detect the expression of miR-183 in primary esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and to analyze its correlation with clinicopathological features of ESCC.

METHODS: The expression of miR-183 in 53 ESCC samples and matched tumor-adjacent tissue samples was detected by real-time PCR. PCR data were analyzed using the 2^-ΔΔCT method.

RESULTS: Of the 53 ESCC samples analyzed, microRNA-183 was significantly up-regulated (2-6411 folds) in 22 samples compared to the matched tissue samples. Up-regulation of mir-183 expression was correlated with lymph node metastasis and poor prognosis in ESCC (both P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION: Up-regulation of mir-183 expression was significantly correlated with the development and progression of ESCC.

Interactions between microbes and the gut epithelium

Gut microbes interact with the epithelium through cell surface components, fermentation products, and extracellular secreted proteins. Host-microbial interactions primarily involve TLRs (toll-like receptors) and NLR (nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain and leucine-rich repeat containing proteins). In a strain and dose-dependent manner, several probiotic strains directly alter tight junction protein expression and/or localization in gut epithelial cells through the release of secreted compounds. Interactions between gut microbes and intestinal epithelial and immune cells are necessary for the development and maintenance of intestinal homeostasis.

Early molecular and synaptic dysfunctions in the prodromal stages of Alzheimer’s disease: focus on TNF-α and IL-1β

Alterations in cytokine expression as well as deficits in synaptic activity are two features observed in early, prodromal stages of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The cytokines TNF-α and IL-1β are not only mediators of immune responses, but are also involved in regulating synaptic activity through their effects on neuronal excitability and Hebbian plasticity. We propose that early changes occurring in the AD brain, such as increases in soluble amyloid-β oligomers, may increase the expression of certain cytokines and subsequently cause alterations in cytokine-mediated synaptic activity. A shift of focus towards the prodromal stages of AD, which incorporate the earliest detectable molecular, electrophysiological and behavioral alterations, may provide novel therapeutic targets and potential biomarkers for this currently incurable neurodegenerative disease.

Mucosal injuries due to ribosome-inactivating stress and the compensatory responses of the intestinal epithelial barrier

Ribosome-inactivating (ribotoxic) xenobiotics are capable of using cleavage and modification to damage 28S ribosomal RNA, which leads to translational arrest. The blockage of global protein synthesis predisposes rapidly dividing tissues, including gut epithelia, to damage from various pathogenic processes, including epithelial inflammation and carcinogenesis. In particular, mucosal exposure to ribotoxic stress triggers integrated processes that are important for barrier regulation and re-constitution to maintain gut homeostasis. In the present study, various experimental models of the mucosal barrier were evaluated for their response to acute and chronic exposure to ribotoxic agents. Specifically, this review focuses on the regulation of epithelial junctions, epithelial transporting systems, epithelial cytotoxicity, and compensatory responses to mucosal insults. The primary aim is to characterize the mechanisms associated with the intestinal epithelial responses induced by ribotoxic stress and to discuss the implications of ribotoxic stressors as chemical modulators of mucosa-associated diseases such as ulcerative colitis and epithelial cancers.

High throughput object-based image analysis of β-amyloid plaques in human and transgenic mouse brain

Advances in imaging technology have enabled automated approaches for quantitative image analysis. In this study, a high content object based image analysis method was developed for quantification of β-amyloid (Aβ) plaques in postmortem brains of Alzheimer's disease (AD) subjects and in transgenic mice over overexpressing Aβ. Digital images acquired from immunohistochemically stained sections of the superior frontal gyrus were analyzed for Aβ plaque burden using a Definiens object-based segmentation approach. Blinded evaluation of Aβ stained sections from AD and aged matched human subjects accurately identified AD cases with one exception. Brains from transgenic mice overexpressing Aβ (PS1APP mice) were also evaluated by our Definiens object based image analysis approach. We observed an age-dependent increase in the amount of Aβ plaque load that we quantified in both the hippocampus and cortex. From the contralateral hemisphere, we measured the amount of Aβ in brain homogenates biochemically and observed a significant correlation between our biochemical measurements and those that we measured by our object based Definiens system in the hippocampus. Assessment of Aβ plaque load in PS1APP mice using a manual segmentation technique (Image-Pro Plus) confirmed the results of our object-based image analysis approach. Image acquisition and analysis of 32 stained human slides and 100 mouse slides were executed in 8 h and 22 h, respectively supporting the relatively high throughput features of the Definiens platform. The data show that digital imaging combined with object based image analysis is a reliable and efficient approach to quantifying Aβ plaques in human and mouse brain.

Oral administration of Lactobacillus plantarum K68 ameliorates DSS-induced ulcerative colitis in BALB/c mice via the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities

Many different kinds of fermented food are consumed daily in Taiwan, such as stinky tofu, suan-tsai, and fu-tsai. We have previously reported the diversity of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) at different stages of fermentation in the production of suan-tsai and fu-tsai. In this study, the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities of Lactobacillus plantarum K68 (K68) isolated from fu-tsai were evaluated. K68 significantly inhibited the production of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced murine macrophage RAW 264.7 cells and stimulated interferon-γ (IFN-γ) production in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (hPBMCs). Additionally, orally administered K68 ameliorated dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis (UC) in BALB/c mice. Both the disease activity index (DAI) and histological scores (HIS) showed that the severity of UC was significantly reduced by oral administration of K68. Furthermore, the production of pro inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) was significantly reduced in K68-administered group. Colonic mRNA expression levels of TNF-α, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), forkhead box P3 (Foxp3), suppressors of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3), and toll like receptor 4 (TLR4), were also reduced in the K68-administered group. These results suggest that K68 exhibits anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities that ameliorate DSS-induced experimental colitis.

Blebbistain, a myosin II inhibitor, as a novel strategy to regulate detrusor contractility in a rat model of partial bladder outlet obstruction

Partial bladder outlet obstruction (PBOO), a common urologic pathology mostly caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia, can coexist in 40–45% of patients with overactive bladder (OAB) and is associated with detrusor overactivity (DO). PBOO that induces DO results in alteration in bladder myosin II type and isoform composition. Blebbistatin (BLEB) is a myosin II inhibitor we recently demonstrated potently relaxed normal detrusor smooth muscle (SM) and reports suggest varied BLEB efficacy for different SM myosin (SMM) isoforms and/or SMM vs nonmuscle myosin (NMM). We hypothesize BLEB inhibition of myosin II as a novel contraction protein targeted strategy to regulate DO. Using a surgically-induced male rat PBOO model, organ bath contractility, competitive and Real-Time-RT-PCR were performed. It was found that obstructed-bladder weight significantly increased 2.74-fold while in vitro contractility of detrusor to various stimuli was impaired ∼50% along with decreased shortening velocity. Obstruction also altered detrusor spontaneous activities with significantly increased amplitude but depressed frequency. PBOO switched bladder from a phasic-type to a more tonic-type SM. Expression of 5’ myosin heavy chain (MHC) alternatively spliced isoform SM-A (associated with tonic-type SM) increased 3-fold while 3’ MHC SM1 and essential light chain isoform MLC_17b also exhibited increased relative expression. Total SMMHC expression was decreased by 25% while the expression of NMM IIB (SMemb) was greatly increased by 4.5-fold. BLEB was found to completely relax detrusor strips from both sham-operated and PBOO rats pre-contracted with KCl, carbachol or electrical field stimulation although sensitivity was slightly decreased (20%) only at lower doses for PBOO. Thus we provide the first thorough characterization of the response of rat bladder myosin to PBOO and demonstrate complete BLEB-induced PBOO bladder SM relaxation. Furthermore, the present study provides valuable evidence that BLEB may be a novel type of potential therapeutic agent for regulation of myogenic and nerve-evoked DO in OAB.

EGF enhances the migration of cancer cells by up-regulation of TRPM7

Ion channels involved in the migration of tumor cells that is required for their invasion and metastasis. In this paper, we describe the interaction of TRPM7 channel and epidermal growth factor (EGF), an important player in cancer development in the migration of lung cancer cells. The TRPM7 currents in A549 cells were first characterized by means of electrophysiology, pharmacology and RNA interference. Removing Ca(2+) from the extracellular solution not only potentiated a large inward current, but also abolished the outward rectification. 200μM 2-APB inhibited the outward and the inward TRPM7 currents and at the same time restored the property of outward rectification. EGF greatly enhanced the migration of A549 cells, and also markedly up-regulated the membrane protein expression of TRPM7 and the amplitude of TRPM7 currents. Depressing the function of TRPM7 with RNA interference or pharmacological agents not only reversed the EGF-enhanced migration of A549 cells but also inhibited the basal migration of A549 cells in the absence of EGF. Thus it seems that TRPM7 plays a pivotal role in the migration of A549 cells induced by EGF and thus could be a potential therapeutic target in lung cancers.

Ricinus communis intoxications in human and veterinary medicine-a summary of real cases

Accidental and intended Ricinus communis intoxications in humans and animals have been known for centuries but the causative agent remained elusive until 1888 when Stillmark attributed the toxicity to the lectin ricin. Ricinus communis is grown worldwide on an industrial scale for the production of castor oil. As by-product in castor oil production ricin is mass produced above 1 million tons per year. On the basis of its availability, toxicity, ease of preparation and the current lack of medical countermeasures, ricin has gained attention as potential biological warfare agent. The seeds also contain the less toxic, but highly homologous Ricinus communis agglutinin and the alkaloid ricinine, and especially the latter can be used to track intoxications. After oil extraction and detoxification, the defatted press cake is used as organic fertilizer and as low-value feed. In this context there have been sporadic reports from different countries describing animal intoxications after uptake of obviously insufficiently detoxified fertilizer. Observations in Germany over several years, however, have led us to speculate that the detoxification process is not always performed thoroughly and controlled, calling for international regulations which clearly state a ricin threshold in fertilizer. In this review we summarize knowledge on intended and unintended poisoning with ricin or castor seeds both in humans and animals, with a particular emphasis on intoxications due to improperly detoxified castor bean meal and forensic analysis.

Waixenicin A inhibits cell proliferation through magnesium-dependent block of transient receptor potential melastatin 7 (TRPM7) channels

Transient receptor potential melastatin 7 (TRPM7) channels represent the major magnesium-uptake mechanism in mammalian cells and are key regulators of cell growth and proliferation. They are expressed abundantly in a variety of human carcinoma cells controlling survival, growth, and migration. These characteristics are the basis for recent interest in the channel as a target for cancer therapeutics. We screened a chemical library of marine organism-derived extracts and identified waixenicin A from the soft coral Sarcothelia edmondsoni as a strong inhibitor of overexpressed and native TRPM7. Waixenicin A activity was cytosolic and potentiated by intracellular free magnesium (Mg(2+)) concentration. Mutating a Mg(2+) binding site on the TRPM7 kinase domain reduced the potency of the compound, whereas kinase deletion enhanced its efficacy independent of Mg(2+). Waixenicin A failed to inhibit the closely homologous TRPM6 channel and did not significantly affect TRPM2, TRPM4, and Ca(2+) release-activated Ca(2+) current channels. Therefore, waixenicin A represents the first potent and relatively specific inhibitor of TRPM7 ion channels. Consistent with TRPM7 inhibition, the compound blocked cell proliferation in human Jurkat T-cells and rat basophilic leukemia cells. Based on the ability of the compound to inhibit cell proliferation through Mg(2+)-dependent block of TRPM7, waixenicin A, or structural analogs may have cancer-specific therapeutic potential, particularly because certain cancers accumulate cytosolic Mg(2+).

Beneficial effect of probiotics in IBD: are peptidogycan and NOD2 the molecular key effectors?

Although the beneficial capacities of probiotics are more and more substantiated, their effects clearly depend on the strains used and their mechanisms of action remain poorly understood. Recent evidences have highlighted the potential role of cell-wall components in the anti-inflammatory capacity of selected lactobacilli. In this addendum, we summarize our recent results concerning the role of peptidoglycan (PGN) and NOD2 signaling in the regulation of intestinal inflammation. We showed that the protective effect of Lactobacillus PGN is strain-specific and linked to the induction of diverse immune regulatory pathways. Moreover the beneficial effect of Lactobacillus PGN correlated with the release of a specific muropeptide sensed by NOD2. These findings allow for a better understanding of how probiotic lactobacilli exert their beneficial effect and will help guide for more successful strain selection.

Expression of human glucocorticoid receptor in T lymphocytes in acute-on-chronic hepatitis B liver failure

BACKGROUND

Glucocorticoid receptor (GR) participates in the pathogenesis of liver inflammation. However, the potential role of GR in acute-on-chronic hepatitis B liver failure (ACHBLF) is still obscure.

AIM

This present study was aimed to determine peripheral GR expression in ACHBLF patients.

METHODS

Forty patients with ACHBLF, 20 patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) and 16 healthy controls were included in this retrospectively study. Flow cytometry was used to determine the peripheral expression of GR + T lymphocytes. Semi-quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was performed for assessing relative mRNA levels of GR alpha and beta isoforms in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Serum cortisol level was evaluated using radioimmunoassay.

RESULTS

The serum cortisol level and the percentage of GR + T lymphocytes in ACHBLF patients were significantly decreased compared with CHB patients and healthy controls. However, there were no significant differences in mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) of GR + T lymphocytes within three groups. The relative GR alpha mRNA expression in ACHBLF patients was significant decreased compared with healthy controls. However, the relative GR beta mRNA expression in ACHBLF patients was significantly increased compared with CHB patients and healthy controls. In ACHBLF patients, the percentage of GR + T lymphocyte was significantly positively associated with relative GR alpha expression, prothrombin activity, and HBV DNA level, but negatively correlated with serum cortisol level and MELD score. Furthermore, the percentage of GR + T lymphocytes was also obviously elevated in survivors than non-survivors.

CONCLUSIONS

It was strongly suggested that GR play an important role in the pathogenesis of ACHBLF.

Mechanisms of penile erection and basis for pharmacological treatment of erectile dysfunction

Erection is basically a spinal reflex that can be initiated by recruitment of penile afferents, both autonomic and somatic, and supraspinal influences from visual, olfactory, and imaginary stimuli. Several central transmitters are involved in the erectile control. Dopamine, acetylcholine, nitric oxide (NO), and peptides, such as oxytocin and adrenocorticotropin/α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone, have a facilitatory role, whereas serotonin may be either facilitatory or inhibitory, and enkephalins are inhibitory. The balance between contractant and relaxant factors controls the degree of contraction of the smooth muscle of the corpora cavernosa (CC) and determines the functional state of the penis. Noradrenaline contracts both CC and penile vessels via stimulation of α₁-adrenoceptors. Neurogenic NO is considered the most important factor for relaxation of penile vessels and CC. The role of other mediators, released from nerves or endothelium, has not been definitely established. Erectile dysfunction (ED), defined as the "inability to achieve or maintain an erection adequate for sexual satisfaction," may have multiple causes and can be classified as psychogenic, vasculogenic or organic, neurologic, and endocrinologic. Many patients with ED respond well to the pharmacological treatments that are currently available, but there are still groups of patients in whom the response is unsatisfactory. The drugs used are able to substitute, partially or completely, the malfunctioning endogenous mechanisms that control penile erection. Most drugs have a direct action on penile tissue facilitating penile smooth muscle relaxation, including oral phosphodiesterase inhibitors and intracavernosal injections of prostaglandin E₁. Irrespective of the underlying cause, these drugs are effective in the majority of cases. Drugs with a central site of action have so far not been very successful. There is a need for therapeutic alternatives. This requires identification of new therapeutic targets and design of new approaches. Research in the field is expanding, and several promising new targets for future drugs have been identified.

Cryptotanshinone inhibits lymphatic endothelial cell tube formation by suppressing VEGFR-3/ERK and small GTPase pathways

Cryptotanshinone (CPT), isolated from the plant Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge, is a potential anticancer agent. However, the underlying mechanism remains to be defined. Here, we show that CPT inhibited lymphangiogenesis in an in vitro model (tube formation). This effect was partly attributed to inhibiting expression of VEGF receptor 3 (VEGFR-3) in murine lymphatic endothelial cells (LEC), as overexpression of VEGFR-3 conferred resistance to CPT inhibition of the tube formation, whereas downregulation of VEGFR-3 mimicked the effect of CPT, blocking the tube formation. Furthermore, CPT inhibited phosphorylation of the extracellular signal-related kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2). Overexpression of VEGFR-3 attenuated CPT inhibition of ERK1/2 phosphorylation, whereas downregulation of VEGFR-3 inhibited ERK1/2 phosphorylation in LECs. Expression of constitutively active MKK1 resulted in activation of ERK1/2 and partially prevented CPT inhibition of LEC tube formation. In addition, CPT also inhibited protein expression and activities of Rac1 and Cdc42 but not RhoA. Expression of constitutively active Rac1 and Cdc42 concurrently, but not Rac1 or Cdc42 alone, conferred resistance to CPT inhibition of LEC tube formation. Taken together, the results suggest that CPT inhibits LEC tube formation, in part, by inhibiting VEGFR-3-mediated ERK1/2 phosphorylation and, in part, by inhibiting expression of the small GTPases.

Elevated expression of solute carrier family 22 member 18 increases the sensitivity of U251 glioma cells to BCNU

Previous studies showed that solute carrier family 22 member 18 (SLC22A18) is involved in tumorigenesis. The aim of this study was to examine the role of SLC22A18 in glioma cells. Glioma U251 cells were transfected with the human SLC22A18 gene. Transfection of the empty vector pcDNA3.1 was used as a negative control. Sensitivity to BCNU was measured by Annexin V staining. The expression of caspase-3 and bcl-2 was determined by immunohistochemistry. The transfection was confirmed by PCR, RT-PCR and Western blotting. Augmented apoptotic cell death was observed in the SLC22A18-transfected cells, compared to the non-transfected cells or cells with the empty vector. Caspase-3 expression increased in U251-SLC22A18 cells, whereas the bcl-2 expression decreased. These results indicated that SLC22A18 has a pro-apoptotic function in glioma cells.

TRPM6 and TRPM7: A Mul-TRP-PLIK-cation of channel functions

Unique among ion channels, TRPM6 and TRPM7 garnered much interest upon their discovery as the first ion channels to possess their own kinase domain. Soon after their identification, the two proteins were quickly linked to the regulation of magnesium homeostasis. However, study of their physiological functions in mouse and zebrafish have revealed expanding roles for these channel-kinases that include skeletogenesis and melanopore formation, thymopoiesis, cell adhesion, and neural fold closure during early development. In addition, mutations in the TRPM6 gene constitute the underlying genetic defect in hypomagnesemia with secondary hypocalcemia, a rare autosomal-recessive disease characterized by low serum magnesium accompanied by hypocalcemia. Depletion of TRPM7 expression in brain, on the other hand, proved successful in mitigating much of the cellular devastation that accompanies oxygen-glucose deprivation during ischemia. The aim of this review is to summarize the data emerging from molecular genetic, biochemical, electrophysiological, and pharmacological studies of these unique channel-kinases.