Redox signaling and the MAP kinase pathways

Inhibition of HDAC6 elicits anticancer effects on head and neck cancer cells through Sp1/SOD3/MKP1 signaling axis to downregulate ERK phosphorylation

Oxidative stress caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS) and superoxides is linked to various cancer-related biological events. Extracellular superoxide dismutase (SOD3), an antioxidant enzyme that removes superoxides, contributes to redox homeostasis and has the potential to regulate tumorigenesis. Histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6), a major HDAC isoform responsible for mediating the deacetylation of non-histone protein substrates, also plays a role in cancer progression. In this study, we examined the potential effects of HDAC6 inhibition on SOD3 expression in head and neck cancer (HNC) cells and its impact on cell proliferation, which remains unaddressed. We found that functional inactivation of HDAC6, through the use of chemical inhibitors such as tubastatin A (TubA), gene knockdown, or overexpression of an inactive mutant, strongly upregulated protein and mRNA levels of SOD3 in HNC cell lines FaDu and Detroit562. Mechanistically, TubA induced acetylation of the transcription factor Sp1 at Lys703, which consequently enhanced its binding to the SOD3 proximal promoter region and increased SOD3 expression. An acetylation-defective Sp1 mutant (K703R) was much less effective in inducing SOD3 expression compared to wild-type Sp1. TubA reduced intracellular ROS and superoxide levels, and this antioxidative effect was attenuated in SOD3 knockdown cells. Similar to the changes in ROS levels, HDAC6 inhibition as well as SOD3 overexpression suppressed cell proliferation and the stimulatory phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), whereas SOD3 knockdown produced opposite effects in both resting and TubA-treated conditions. In addition, SOD3 overexpression prevented ROS-induced ERK1/2 phosphorylation and enhanced the protein stability of mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphatase 1 (MKP1), thereby counteracting ERK1/2 phosphorylation. We further showed that SOD3-mediated ERK1/2 dephosphorylation was moderated in MKP1 knockdown cells. Collectively, these results suggest that HDAC6 inhibition elicits anticancer effects on HNC cells by promoting Sp1 acetylation-dependent SOD3 upregulation, leading to MKP1 stabilization and subsequent ERK1/2 inactivation.

Mechanisms of time-restricted feeding-induced neuroprotection and neuronal plasticity in ischemic stroke as a function of circadian rhythm

Time-restricted feeding (TRF) is known to promote longevity and brain function, and potentially prevent neurological diseases. Animal studies show that TRF enhances brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signaling and regulates autophagy and neuroinflammation, supporting synaptic plasticity, neurogenesis and neuroprotection. Feeding/fasting paradigms influence the circadian cycle, with TRF aligning circadian cycle-related gene expression, and thus altering physiological processes. Emerging evidence highlights the role of gut microbiota in neuronal plasticity, based on the observation that TRF significantly alters gut microbiota composition. Hence, the gut-brain axis may be crucial for maintaining cognitive functions and presents a potential therapeutic target for TRF-mediated neuroprotection. In the context of ischemic stroke where neuronal damage is extensive, TRF can be a preconditioning strategy to enhance synaptic plasticity and neuronal resilience, thus improving outcomes after stroke. This review discussed the link between TRF and circadian regulation in neuronal plasticity and its implications for recovery after stroke.

Mustard Meal Extract as an Alternative to Zinc Oxide for Protecting the Intestinal Barrier Against E. coli-Lipopolysaccharide Damage

The present study aimed to investigate the ability of an aqueous extract derived from mustard seed meal to counteract the effects of E. coli endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on the intestinal epithelium. Caco-2 cells were cultured together with HT29-MTX and used as a cellular model to analyze critical intestinal parameters, such as renewal, integrity, innate immunity, and signaling pathway. Byproducts of mustard seed oil extraction are rich in soluble polysaccharides, proteins, allyl isothiocyanates, and phenolic acids, which are known as powerful antioxidants with antimicrobial and antifungal properties. Cells were seeded at a ratio of nine (Caco-2) to one (HT29-MXT) and treated for 2 h with mustard meal extract (ME, dilution 1/50) and zinc oxide (ZnO, 50 μM) after reaching 80-100% confluence. Then, they were challenged with 5 μg/mL E. coli-LPS and incubated for another 4 h. The results show that LPS did not alter the cell viability but decreased proliferation compared to the control, ME and ZnO treatments. LPS altered the cell membrane integrity and monolayer permeability by decreasing the transepithelial electrical resistance and tight-junction protein expression. In addition, LPS increased the activity of LDH and the expression of Toll-like receptors. The mechanisms by which LPS induces these disturbances involves the overexpression of PKC, p38 MAPK, and NF-κB signaling molecules. The pretreatment with mustard meal and ZnO succeeded in counteracting the impairment of epithelial renewal, the damage of the membrane integrity and permeability as well as in restoring the gene expression of tight-junction proteins.

Mitochondria-targeted antioxidant mitoquinone mitigates vitrification-induced damage in mouse ovarian tissue by maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis via the p38 MAPK pathway

OBJECTIVE

Ovarian tissue cryopreservation has become a promising alternative for fertility preservation in cancer patients, allowing ovarian tissue to be stored for future autotransplantation. Oxidative stress damage occurring during the cryopreservation process may impact tissue quality and function. This study aims to investigate the protective effects and potential mechanisms of Mitoquinone (MitoQ), a mitochondria-targeted derivative of the antioxidant ubiquinone, during the vitrification of ovarian tissue in mice.

METHODS

KGN cells were treated with various concentrations (0.1, 1, 10, and 50 μM) of MitoQ to determine the optimal concentration. Female ICR mice were divided into three groups: control, conventional vitrification, and MitoQ-supplemented vitrification. Ovarian samples were cryopreserved, thawed, and assessed for tissue morphology using Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) staining, and mitochondrial changes using immunofluorescence, transmission electron microscopy, and Western blot analysis. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was employed to explore potential protective mechanisms. Autotransplantation experiments were conducted, and the long-term effects of MitoQ on ovarian function were evaluated by counting follicle numbers through H&E staining and measuring serum estradiol and AMH levels using ELISA.

RESULTS

MitoQ at 1 μM was found to be the optimal concentration for maintaining follicular morphology after vitrification. It effectively reduced mitochondrial oxidative damage, preserved mitochondrial morphology, and regulated the expression of mitochondrial dynamics proteins (Drp1 and Mfn2). RNA-seq and Western blot analyses revealed that MitoQ inhibited the p38 MAPK pathway, thereby reducing apoptosis. Additionally, autotransplantation experiments showed that MitoQ treatment significantly increased follicle counts, estradiol (E2), and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels compared to conventional vitrification.

CONCLUSIONS

MitoQ effectively mitigates vitrification-induced oxidative damage, maintains mitochondrial homeostasis, and preserves both follicular reserve and endocrine function. These findings suggest that MitoQ is a valuable adjunct in ovarian tissue cryopreservation and could significantly improve fertility preservation outcomes for cancer patients.

Supplementing ageing male laying breeders with lycopene alleviates oxidative stress in testis and improves testosterone secretion

BACKGROUND

Reproductive performance is a crucial aspect of poultry production and is carefully controlled by endocrine, paracrine, and autocrine factors. This study aimed to investigate the effect of lycopene on testosterone synthesis in Leydig cells of laying breeder roosters, clarify the mechanism of lycopene improving Leydig cells function and promoting testosterone production, and explore the role of related signal transduction pathways in testosterone synthesis.

RESULTS

A total of 96 healthy 55-week-old breeding roosters were randomly assigned to one of five dietary treatments. They were provided with a corn-soybean meal-based diet containing different levels of lycopene: 0 mg/kg (control), 50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg, or 200 mg/kg. The experiment lasted for 6 weeks. With the increase in lycopene levels, the testosterone content in the plasma was significantly higher than in the control group. Testicular Leydig cells were isolated and cultured from fresh testicular tissue of 45-wk-old to 60-wk-old breeding roosters. Various doses of lycopene were administered to Leydig cells, and subsequently, cells were collected for the detection of cell viability and testosterone content. The optimal concentration of lycopene to be added was determined, and changes in mRNA expression and protein levels of key proteins involved in testosterone synthesis were investigated. The results showed that lycopene treatment significantly increased testosterone secretion, mRNA expression, and protein levels of steroid-producing enzymes. Cells were collected to measure the activity of antioxidant enzymes, the mRNA transcription level of apoptotic factors, and the protein expression of apoptotic factors after treatment with lycopene. The results showed that lycopene significantly increased the activities of antioxidant enzymes, and the ability to inhibit oxygen radicals, and decreased the content of malondialdehyde. Apoptosis was inhibited by regulating the expression of apoptosis-inducing and anti-apoptosis factors. After that, the MAPK signaling pathway and downstream SF-1, Nrf2 gene, and protein expression levels were detected. The results showed that lycopene treatment significantly increased the gene and protein expression of JNK, SF-1, and Nrf2, and significantly decreased the gene and protein expression of p38.

CONCLUSIONS

Lycopene treatment could promote testosterone synthesis of testicular Leydig cells by activating MAPK-SF-1 (increasing steroid-producing enzyme level) and MAPK-Nrf2 pathways (resisting oxidative damage).

Comparative Analyses of Dynamic Transcriptome Profile of Heart Highlight the Key Response Genes for Heat Stress in Zhikong Scallop Chlamys farreri

Heat stress resulting from global climate change has been demonstrated to adversely affect growth, development, and reproduction of marine organisms. The Zhikong scallop (Chlamys farreri), an important economical mollusk in China, faces increasing risks of summer mortality due to the prolonged heat waves. The heart, responsible for transporting gas and nutrients, is vital in maintaining homeostasis and physiological status in response to environmental changes. In this study, the effect of heat stress on the cardiac function of C. farreri was investigated during the continuous 30-day heat stress at 27 °C. The results showed the heart rate of scallops increased due to stress in the initial phase of high temperature exposure, peaking at 12 h, and then gradually recovered, indicating an acclimatization at the end of the experiment. In addition, the levels of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) exhibited an initial increase followed by recovery in response to heat stress. Furthermore, transcriptome analysis of the heart identified 3541 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in response to heat stress. Subsequent GO and KEGG enrichment analysis showed that these genes were primarily related to signal transduction and oxidative stress, such as the phosphatidylinositol signaling system, regulation of actin cytoskeleton, MAPK signaling pathway, FoxO signaling pathway, etc. In addition, two modules were identified as significant responsive modules according to the weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). The upregulation of key enzymes within the base excision repair and gap junction pathways indicated that the heart of C. farreri under heat stress enhanced DNA repair and maintained cellular integrity. In addition, the variable expression of essential signaling molecules and cytoskeletal regulators suggested that the heart of C. farreri modulated cardiomyocyte contraction, intracellular signaling, and heart rate through complex regulation of phosphorylation and calcium dynamics in response to heat stress. Collectively, this study enhances our understanding of cardiac function and provides novel evidence for unraveling the mechanism underlying the thermal response in mollusks.

Exercise-specific adaptations in human skeletal muscle: Molecular mechanisms of making muscles fit and mighty

The mechanisms leading to a predominantly hypertrophied phenotype versus a predominantly oxidative phenotype, the hallmarks of resistance training (RT) or aerobic training (AT), respectively, are being unraveled. In humans, exposure of naïve persons to either AT or RT results in their skeletal muscle exhibiting generic 'exercise stress-related' signaling, transcription, and translation responses. However, with increasing engagement in AT or RT, the responses become refined, and the phenotype typically associated with each form of exercise emerges. Here, we review some of the mechanisms underpinning the adaptations of how muscles become, through AT, 'fit' and RT, 'mighty.' Much of our understanding of molecular exercise physiology has arisen from targeted analysis of post-translational modifications and measures of protein synthesis. Phosphorylation of specific residue sites has been a dominant focus, with canonical signaling pathways (AMPK and mTOR) studied extensively in the context of AT and RT, respectively. These alone, along with protein synthesis, have only begun to elucidate key differences in AT and RT signaling. Still, key yet uncharacterized differences exist in signaling and regulation of protein synthesis that drive unique adaptation to AT and RT. Omic studies are required to better understand the divergent relationship between exercise and phenotypic outcomes of training.

Enhancement of keratinocyte survival and migration elicited by interleukin 24 upregulation in dermal microvascular endothelium upon welding-fume exposure

Occupational exposure to welding fumes constitutes a serious health concern. Although the effects of fumes on the respiratory tract have been investigated, few apparent reports were published on their effects on the skin. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of exposure to welding fumes on skin cells, focusing on interleukin-24 (IL-24), a cytokine involved in the pathophysiology of skin conditions, such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. Treatment with welding fumes increased IL-24 expression and production levels in human dermal microvascular endothelial cells (HDMEC) which were higher than that in normal human epidermal keratinocytes. IL-24 levels in Trolox and deferoxamine markedly suppressed welding fume-induced IL-24 expression in HDMEC, indicating that oxidative stress may be involved in this cytokine expression. IL-24 released from HDMEC protected keratinocytes from welding fume-induced damage and enhanced keratinocyte migration. Serum IL-24 was higher in welding workers than in general subjects and was positively correlated with elevated serum levels of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine, an oxidative stress marker. In summary, welding fumes enhanced IL-24 expression in HDMEC, stimulating keratinocyte survival and migration. IL-24 expression in endothelial cells may act as an adaptive response to welding-fume exposure in the skin.

Pogostemon cablin essential oil as feed additive promotes the repair of the rumen epithelial barrier in heat-stressed beef cattle

Pogostemon cablin essential oil (PEO), extracted from P. cablin, has anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-stress properties, as well as the ability to improve gastrointestinal digestion. This study aims to evaluate the effects of PEO on the performance, rumen epithelial morphology, and barrier function in heat-stressed beef cattle. Thirty-six male Jingjiang cattle at 18 months old were randomly assigned into four groups and fed a diet containing PEO at 0 (control), 50, 100, or 150 mg/kg in the feed concentrate (n = 9). All experimental cattle were fed under high temperature and humidity in summer for 60 days. The results indicated that 50 mg/kg of PEO treatment enhanced the average daily gain of beef cattle compared with the control group (P = 0.032). All PEO treatments reduced the diamine oxidase activity (P = 0.004) and malondialdehyde content (P = 0.008) in serum. In addition, the content of 70 kDa heat shock protein in the 100 mg/kg group was increased, and the activity of glutathione peroxidase and total antioxidant capacity in both 100 mg/kg and 150 mg/kg groups were enhanced compared to the control group (P < 0.05). More importantly, PEO treatment with 50 mg/kg enhanced the mRNA relative expressions of occludin in ruminal epithelia but decreased the mRNA relative expressions of c-Jun N-terminal kinase, P38 mitogen-activated protein kinases, caspase-3, Beclin1 (P < 0.05), and extremely significant declined the mRNA relative expressions of extracellular regulated protein kinases and ubiquitin-binding protein in contrast to the control group (P < 0.01). These findings indicated that dietary PEO supplementation might be favorable to improve growth performance and repairing damaged rumen epithelium of heat-stressed cattle by down-regulating the mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway.

Dissemination of pathogenic bacteria is reinforced by a MARTX toxin effector duet

Multiple bacterial genera take advantage of the multifunctional autoprocessing repeats-in-toxin (MARTX) toxin to invade host cells. Secretion of the MARTX toxin by Vibrio vulnificus, a deadly opportunistic pathogen that causes primary septicemia, the precursor of sepsis, is a major driver of infection; however, the molecular mechanism via which the toxin contributes to septicemia remains unclear. Here, we report the crystal and cryo-electron microscopy (EM) structures of a toxin effector duet comprising the domain of unknown function in the first position (DUF1)/Rho inactivation domain (RID) complexed with human targets. These structures reveal how the duet is used by bacteria as a potent weapon. The data show that DUF1 acts as a RID-dependent transforming NADase domain (RDTND) that disrupts NAD+ homeostasis by hijacking calmodulin. The cryo-EM structure of the RDTND-RID duet complexed with calmodulin and Rac1, together with immunological analyses in vitro and in mice, provide mechanistic insight into how V. vulnificus uses the duet to suppress ROS generation by depleting NAD(P)+ and modifying Rac1 in a mutually-reinforcing manner that ultimately paralyzes first line immune responses, promotes dissemination of invaders, and induces sepsis. These data may allow development of tools or strategies to combat MARTX toxin-related human diseases.

Harnessing Mitochondrial Stress for Health and Disease: Opportunities and Challenges

Mitochondria, essential organelles orchestrating cellular metabolism, have emerged as central players in various disease pathologies. Recent research has shed light on mitohormesis, a concept proposing an adaptive response of mitochondria to minor disturbances in homeostasis, offering novel therapeutic avenues for mitochondria-related diseases. This comprehensive review explores the concept of mitohormesis, elucidating its induction mechanisms and occurrence. Intracellular molecules like reactive oxygen species (ROS), calcium, mitochondrial unfolded proteins (UPRmt), and integrated stress response (ISR), along with external factors such as hydrogen sulfide (H2S), physical stimuli, and exercise, play pivotal roles in regulating mitohormesis. Based on the available evidence, we elucidate how mitohormesis maintains mitochondrial homeostasis through mechanisms like mitochondrial quality control and mitophagy. Furthermore, the regulatory role of mitohormesis in mitochondria-related diseases is discussed. By envisioning future applications, this review underscores the significance of mitohormesis as a potential therapeutic target, paving the way for innovative interventions in disease management.

Regulatory role of oxidative stress in retrorsine - Induced apoptosis and autophagy in primary rat hepatocytes

Pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) are a group of naturally occurring alkaloids widely present in plants. PAs are highly hepatotoxic and have been documented to cause many incidents of human and animal poisoning. Retrorsine (RTS) is a pyrrolizidine alkaloid (PA) derived from the Compositae Senecio, which has been shown to cause hepatotoxicity. Human liver poisoning occurs through the consumption of RTS-contaminated food, and animals can also be poisoned by ingesting RTS-containing toxic plants. The mechanism of RTS-induced liver toxicity is not fully understood. In this study, we demonstrated that RTS-induced oxidative stress plays a pivotal role in RTS-induced liver toxicity involving apoptosis and autophagy. The results showed that RTS treatment in the cultured Primary rat hepatocytes caused cytotoxicity and release of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Our study showed that treatment of RTS induced ROS and MDA (malondialdehyde, a lipid peroxidation marker) in the hepatocytes, and reduced antioxidant capacity (GSH content, SOD activity), suggesting RTS treatment caused oxidative stress response in the hepatocytes. Furthermore, we found that RTS induced apoptosis and autophagy in the hepatocytes, and RTS-induced apoptosis and autophagy could be alleviated by ROS scavenger N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and the MAPK pathway inhibitors suggesting ROS/MAPK signaling pathway plays a role in RTS induced apoptosis and autophagy. Collectively, this study reveals the regulatory mechanism of oxidative stress in RTS-induced apoptosis and autophagy in the hepatocytes, providing important insights of molecular mechanisms of hepatotoxicity induced by RTS and related pyrrolizidine alkaloids in liver. This mechanism provides a basis for the prevention and treatment of PA poisoning in humans and animals.

Melosira nummuloides Ethanol Extract Ameliorates Alcohol-Induced Liver Injury by Affecting Metabolic Pathways

Melosira nummuloides is a microalga with a nutritionally favorable polyunsaturated fatty acid profile. In the present study, M. nummuloides ethanol extract (MNE) was administered to chronic-binge alcohol-fed mice and alcohol-treated HepG2 cells, and its hepatoprotective effects and underlying mechanisms were investigated. MNE administration reduced triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (T-CHO), and liver injury markers, including aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT), in the serum of chronic-binge alcohol-fed mice. However, MNE administration increased the levels of phosphorylated adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (P-AMPK/AMPK) and PPARα, which was accompanied by a decrease in SREBP-1; this indicates that MNE can inhibit adipogenesis and improve fatty acid oxidation. Moreover, MNE administration upregulated the expression of antioxidant enzymes, including SOD, NAD(P)H quinone dehydrogenase 1, and GPX, and ameliorated alcohol-induced inflammation by repressing the Akt/NFκB/COX-2 pathway. Metabolomic analysis revealed that MNE treatment modulated many lipid metabolites in alcohol-treated HepG2 cells. Our study findings provide evidence for the efficacy and mechanisms of MNE in ameliorating alcohol-induced liver injury.

Redox-Responsive Polymeric Nanoparticle for Nucleic Acid Delivery and Cancer Therapy: Progress, Opportunities, and Challenges

Cancer development and progression of cancer are closely associated with the activation of oncogenes and loss of tumor suppressor genes. Nucleic acid drugs (e.g., siRNA, mRNA, and DNA) are widely used for cancer therapy due to their specific ability to regulate the expression of any cancer-associated genes. However, nucleic acid drugs are negatively charged biomacromolecules that are susceptible to serum nucleases and cannot cross cell membrane. Therefore, specific delivery tools are required to facilitate the intracellular delivery of nucleic acid drugs. In the past few decades, a variety of nanoparticles (NPs) are designed and developed for nucleic acid delivery and cancer therapy. In particular, the polymeric NPs in response to the abnormal redox status in cancer cells have garnered much more attention as their potential in redox-triggered nanostructure dissociation and rapid intracellular release of nucleic acid drugs. In this review, the important genes or signaling pathways regulating the abnormal redox status in cancer cells are briefly introduced and the recent development of redox-responsive NPs for nucleic acid delivery and cancer therapy is systemically summarized. The future development of NPs-mediated nucleic acid delivery and their challenges in clinical translation are also discussed.

Reactive oxygen species in biological systems: Pathways, associated diseases, and potential inhibitors-A review

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are produced under normal physiological conditions and may have beneficial and harmful effects on biological systems. ROS are involved in many physiological processes such as differentiation, proliferation, necrosis, autophagy, and apoptosis by acting as signaling molecules or regulators of transcription factors. In this case, maintaining proper cellular ROS levels is known as redox homeostasis. Oxidative stress occurs because of the imbalance between the production of ROS and antioxidant defenses. Sources of ROS include the mitochondria, auto-oxidation of glucose, and enzymatic pathways such as nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate reduced (NAD[P]H) oxidase. The possible ROS pathways are NF-κB, MAPKs, PI3K-Akt, and the Keap1-Nrf2-ARE signaling pathway. This review covers the literature pertaining to the possible ROS pathways and strategies to inhibit them. Additionally, this review summarizes the literature related to finding ROS inhibitors.

Oxidative stress and antioxidants in cataract development

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Oxidative stress plays a central role in cataract pathogenesis, a leading cause of global blindness. This review delves into the role of oxidative stress in cataract development and key biomarkers - glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), and 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) - to clarify their functions and potential applications in predictive diagnostics and therapies.

RECENT FINDINGS

Antioxidants serve as pivotal markers in cataract pathogenesis. GSH affects the central lens due to factors such as enzyme depletion and altered connexin expression, impairing GSH diffusion. Age-related oxidative stress may hinder GSH transport via connexin channels or an internal microcirculation system. N-acetylcysteine, a GSH precursor, shows promise in mitigating lens opacity when applied topically. Additionally, SOD, particularly SOD1, correlates with increased cataract development and gel formulations have exhibited protective effects against posterior subscapular cataracts. Lastly, markers of lipid peroxidation, MDA and 4-HNE, have been shown to reflect disease severity. Studies suggest a potential link between 4-HNE and connexin channel modification, possibly contributing to reduced GSH levels.

SUMMARY

Oxidative stress is a significant contributor to cataract development, underscoring the importance of antioxidants in diagnosis and treatment. Notably, GSH depletion, SOD decline, and lipid peroxidation markers are pivotal factors in cataract pathogenesis, offering promising avenues for both diagnosis and therapeutic intervention.

Differential Effect of 4H-Benzo[d] [1, 3]oxazines on the Proliferation of Breast Cancer Cell Lines

BACKGROUND

A family of 4H-benzo[d][1,3]oxazines were obtained from a group of N-(2-alkynyl)aryl benzamides precursors via gold(I) catalysed chemoselective 6-exo-dig C-O cyclization.

METHOD

The precursors and oxazines obtained were studied in breast cancer cell lines MCF-7, CAMA-1, HCC1954 and SKBR-3 with differential biological activity showing various degrees of inhibition with a notable effect for those that had an aryl substituted at C-2 of the molecules. 4H-benzo[d][1,3]oxazines showed an IC50 rating from 0.30 to 157.4 µM in MCF-7, 0.16 to 139 in CAMA-1, 0.09 to 93.08 in SKBR-3, and 0.51 to 157.2 in HCC1954 cells.

RESULTS

We observed that etoposide is similar to benzoxazines while taxol effect is more potent. Four cell lines responded to benzoxazines while SKBR-3 cell line responded to precursors and benzoxazines. Compounds 16, 24, 25 and 26 have the potent effect in cell proliferation inhibition in the 4 cell lines tested and correlated with oxidant activity suggesting a possible mechanism by ROS generation.

CONCLUSION

These compounds represent possible drug candidates for the treatment of breast cancer. However, further trials are needed to elucidate its full effect on cellular and molecular features of cancer.

Phellinus merrillii extracts induce apoptosis of vascular smooth muscle cells via intrinsic and extrinsic pathways

Restenosis frequently occurs after balloon angioplasty. Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI)-induced artery damage is a significant part of triggering restenosis of the vascular smooth muscles (VSMC). This study aimed to study how ethanol extract of Phellinus merrillii (EPM) affected balloon injury-induced overgrowth of VSMC, indicating neointima formation. Firstly, our results demonstrated that EPM notably decreased VSMC viability. A fragmentation assay and Annexin V/Propidium Iodide apoptosis assay showed that higher doses of EPM significantly induced the apoptosis of VSMC after 24 h of exposure. Total protein extracted from VSMC treated with EPM in various time and concentration periods was then conducted in Western blotting analysis. Our data demonstrated that EPM substantially elevated the p53, p21, Fas, Bax, p-p38, and active caspase-3 protein expressions. The results indicated that EPM induces VSMC apoptosis via intrinsic and extrinsic pathways. Also, our results demonstrated that EPM effectively attenuated the balloon injury-induced neointima formation. In conclusion, the information offers a mechanism of EPM in inducing the VSMC apoptosis, thus as a potential interference for restenosis.

Role of the p38/AKT Pathway in the Promotion of Cell Proliferation by Serum Heat Inactivation

Serum is a common biomaterial in cell culture that provides nutrients and essential growth factors for cell growth. Serum heat inactivation is a common treatment method whose main purpose is to remove complement factors and viruses. As serum contains many heat-labile factors, heat inactivation may affect cell proliferation, migration, differentiation, and other functions. However, the specific mechanism of its effect on cell function has not been studied. Thus, we investigate the exact effects of heat-inactivated FBS on the viability of various cells and explore the possible molecular mechanisms. We treated HCT116, HT-29, and HepG2 cell lines with heat-inactivated (56 °C for 30 min) medium, DMEM, or fetal bovine serum (FBS) for different times (0, 10, 15, 30, 60, or 90 min); we found that heat-inactivated FBS significantly promoted the viability of these cells, whereas DMEM did not have this effect. Moreover, heat-inactivated FBS stimulated cells to produce a small amount of ROS and activated intracellular signaling pathways, mainly the p38/AKT signaling pathway. These results indicate that heat-inactivated FBS may regulate the p38/AKT signaling pathway by promoting the production of appropriate amounts of ROS, thereby regulating cell viability.

Reactive oxygen species- and nitric oxide-dependent regulation of ion and metal homeostasis in plants

Deterioration and impoverishment of soil, caused by environmental pollution and climate change, result in reduced crop productivity. To adapt to hostile soils, plants have developed a complex network of factors involved in stress sensing, signal transduction, and adaptive responses. The chemical properties of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) allow them to participate in integrating the perception of external signals by fine-tuning protein redox regulation and signal transduction, triggering specific gene expression. Here, we update and summarize progress in understanding the mechanistic basis of ROS and RNS production at the subcellular level in plants and their role in the regulation of ion channels/transporters at both transcriptional and post-translational levels. We have also carried out an in silico analysis of different redox-dependent modifications of ion channels/transporters and identified cysteine and tyrosine targets of nitric oxide in metal transporters. Further, we summarize possible ROS- and RNS-dependent sensors involved in metal stress sensing, such as kinases and phosphatases, as well as some ROS/RNS-regulated transcription factors that could be involved in metal homeostasis. Understanding ROS- and RNS-dependent signaling events is crucial to designing new strategies to fortify crops and improve plant tolerance of nutritional imbalance and metal toxicity.

Association of autoantibody levels with different stages of age-related macular degeneration (AMD): Results from the population-based Gutenberg Health Study (GHS)

PURPOSE

Anti-retinal autoantibodies are assumed to be associated with age-related macular degeneration (AMD). To our knowledge, this is the first evaluation of autoantibodies in human sera of participants with different stages of AMD in a large population-based, observational cohort study in Germany.

METHODS

The Gutenberg Health Study (GHS) is a population-based, observational cohort study in Germany, including 15,010 participants aged between 35 and 74. Amongst others, non-mydriatic fundus photography (Visucam PRO NM™, Carl Zeiss Meditec AG, Jena, Germany) was performed. Fundus images of the first 5000 participants were graded based on the Rotterdam Eye Study classification. Sera of participants with AMD (n=541) and sera of age-matched participants without AMD (n=490) were analyzed by antigen-microarrays. Besides descriptive statistics, autoantibody-levels were compared by Mann-Whitney-U test and the associations of level of autoantibodies with AMD were calculated by logistic regression analysis. Likewise, possible associations of the autoantibodies and both clinical and laboratory parameters on AMD subjects were analyzed.

RESULTS

Autoantibodies against transferrin (p<0.001) were significantly downregulated in participants with early AMD and soft, distinct drusen (≥63 μm) or pigmentary abnormalities only compared to Controls. Mitogen-activated protein kinase 3 (p=0.041), glutathione peroxidase 4 (p=0.048), clusterin (p=0.045), lysozyme (p=0.19), protein kinase C substrate 80K-H (p=0.02), heat shock 70 kDa protein 1A (p=0.04) and insulin (p=0.018) show a trend between Control and participants with early AMD and soft, distinct drusen (≥63 μm) or pigmentary abnormalities only.

CONCLUSIONS

This study contributes to a growing knowledge of autoantibodies in association with different AMD stages compared to controls in the context of a large population-based study in Germany. Especially autoantibodies against inflammatory proteins were downregulated in participants with early AMD and soft, distinct drusen (≥63 μm) or pigmentary abnormalities only.

Protective effect and mechanism research of Phyllanthus emblica Linn. fruit extract on UV-induced photodamage in keratinocytes

Ultraviolet (UV) irradiation causes acute and chronic cutaneous effects that may result in photodamage and photoaging. Epidermis keratinocytes, as the closest surface of skin, are susceptible to damage from UV rays. Phyllanthus emblica Linn. fruit (PE) extract, as a medicine and food dual-use plant, contains high levels of polyphenols and possesses multiple pharmacological properties. The present study investigated common and different molecular mechanisms and signaling pathway activations of UVA and UVB stimulated cell damage and photoprotective effect of PE extract against UVA and UVB by Methyl Thiazolyl Tetrazolium (MTT) method, Elisa assay, flow cytometry, differentially expressed genes analysis and western blot analysis. The results showed that UVA exposure (10 J/cm2) reduced HaCaT cell viability significantly, increased the apoptosis rate, elevated intracellular reactive oxygen species level and reduced antioxidant enzyme activities. And UVA irradiation could inhibit the ERK/TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway to downregulate collagen I, collagen III and elastin expressions, resulting in the photoaging of skin cells. We also found UVB exposure (30 mJ/cm2) caused HaCaT cell damage, promoted apoptosis, increased ROS production and induced the release of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1α, IL-6 and PGE2). Further, in HaCaT cells, UVB ray was able to induce the activation of apoptosis markers (cleaved PARP1 and cleaved caspase3) through the MAPK/AP-1 signaling pathway using western blot analysis. Pre-treatment of PE extract prevented the UVA and UVB induced photoaging and injury in HaCaT cells through activation of ERK/TGF-β/Smad pathway and inhibition of MAPK/AP-1 pathway, respectively. Therefore, PE extract has the potential to be used as an oral and topical preparation against skin aging and injury induced by UVA and UVB.

The Impacts of Animal-Based Diets in Cardiovascular Disease Development: A Cellular and Physiological Overview

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in the United States, and diet plays an instrumental role in CVD development. Plant-based diets have been strongly tied to a reduction in CVD incidence. In contrast, animal food consumption may increase CVD risk. While increased serum low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol concentrations are an established risk factor which may partially explain the positive association with animal foods and CVD, numerous other biochemical factors are also at play. Thus, the aim of this review is to summarize the major cellular and molecular effects of animal food consumption in relation to CVD development. Animal-food-centered diets may (1) increase cardiovascular toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling, due to increased serum endotoxins and oxidized LDL cholesterol, (2) increase cardiovascular lipotoxicity, (3) increase renin-angiotensin system components and subsequent angiotensin II type-1 receptor (AT1R) signaling and (4) increase serum trimethylamine-N-oxide concentrations. These nutritionally mediated factors independently increase cardiovascular oxidative stress and inflammation and are all independently tied to CVD development. Public policy efforts should continue to advocate for the consumption of a mostly plant-based diet, with the minimization of animal-based foods.

Mechano-energetic uncoupling in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: Pathophysiological mechanisms and therapeutic opportunities

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a frequent inherited form of heart failure. The underlying cause of HCM is generally attributed to mutations in genes that encode for sarcomeric proteins, but the pathogenesis of the disease is also influenced by non-genetic factors, which can contribute to diastolic dysfunction and hypertrophic remodeling. Central to the pathogenesis of HCM is hypercontractility, a state that is an antecedent to several key derangements, including increased mitochondrial workload and oxidative stress. As a result, energy depletion and mechano-energetic uncoupling drive cardiac growth through signaling pathways such as ERK and/or potentially AMPK downregulation. Metabolic remodeling also occurs in HCM, characterized by decreased fatty acid oxidation and increased glucose uptake. In some instances, ketones may also feed the heart with energy and act as signaling molecules to reduce oxidative stress and hypertrophic signaling. In addition, arrhythmias are frequently triggered in HCM, resulting from the high Ca2+-buffering of the myofilaments and changes in the ATP/ADP ratio. Understanding the mechanisms driving the progression of HCM is critical to the development of effective therapeutic strategies. This paper presents evidence from both experimental and clinical studies that support the role of hypercontractility and cellular energy alterations in the progression of HCM towards heart failure and sudden cardiac death.

Insights into nanoparticles-induced neurotoxicity and cope up strategies

Nanoparticle applications are becoming increasingly popular in fields such as photonics, catalysis, magnetics, biotechnology, manufacturing of cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and medicines. There is still a huge pile of undermining information about the potential toxicity of these products to humans, which can be encountered by neuroprotective antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Nanoparticles can be administered using a variety of methods, including oronasal, topical applications, and enteral and parenteral routes of administration. There are different properties of these nanomaterials that characterize different pathways. Crossing of the blood-brain barrier, a direct sensory nerve-to-brain pathway whose barriers are bypassed, these checks otherwise prevent the nanoparticles from entering the brain. This inflicts damage to sensory neurons and receptors by nanoparticles that lead to neurotoxicity of the central nervous system. A number of routes make nanoparticles able to penetrate through the skin. Exposure by various routes to these nanoparticles can result in oxidative stress, and immune suppression triggers inflammatory cascades and genome-level mutations after they are introduced into the body. To out-power, these complications, plant-based antioxidants, essential oils, and dietary supplements can be put into use. Direct nanoparticle transport pathways from sensory nerves to the brain via blood have been studied grossly. Recent findings regarding the direct pathways through which nanoparticles cross the blood-brain barriers, how nanoparticles elicit different responses on sensory receptors and nerves, how they cause central neurotoxicity and neurodegeneration through sensory nerve routes, and the possible mechanisms that outcast these effects are discussed.

Molecular Mechanisms Associated with Protecting IEC-6 Cells from Acrylamide-Induced Tight Junction Damage by Ganoderma atrum Polysaccharide

SCOPE

The previous in vivo studies show Ganoderma atrum polysaccharide (PSG-F₂ ) has a protective effect against the acrylamide (AA)-induced intestinal oxidative damage in rats. Now, this study aims to explore the protective mechanism with IEC-6 cell model.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Based on RNA Sequencing (RNA-Seq), the study screens MAPK signaling pathway as one of the most crucial pathways for pretreatment with PSG-F₂   against AA-induced damage in IEC-6 cells. In total, six key MAPK signaling pathway-related proteins (p-P38/P38, p-ERK/ERK, and p-JNK/JNK), and three tight junction key proteins (Zonula Occludens protein-1, Claudin-1, and Occludin) are detected by Western blot and immunofluorescence, which verify the RNA-Seq data. Moreover, PD98059 interference inhibits critical proteins in the MAPK signaling pathway, thus uncovering the precise molecular mechanisms of MAPK/ERK signaling pathway involve in the protective effects of PSG-F₂ against AA-induced intestinal barrier damage.

CONCLUSION

These findings confirm that PSG-F₂ can be used as a daily dietary supplement to protect the intestinal cells from damage caused by thermal processing hazards AA.

Effects of anthocyanin-rich supplementation on cognition of the cognitively healthy middle-aged and older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

CONTEXT

The prevalence of age-related cognitive decline has been on the rise as the global population age, putting the independence and quality of life of elderly at risk. Anthocyanin, as a subclass of dietary flavonoids, may have a beneficial impact on cognitive outcomes.

OBJECTIVES

To examine the effects of dietary anthocyanin supplementation on cognition of the cognitively healthy middle-aged and older adults.

DATA SOURCES

PubMed, ScienceDirect, CINAHL, EMBASE, ProQuest and Cochrane databases were searched.

DATA EXTRACTION AND ANALYSIS

Thirteen studies were included in this meta-analysis. Anthocyanin-rich supplementation was found to significantly improve the processing speed of the older adults (95%CI 0.08, 0.44; P = 0.004). No significant differences were observed between intervention and control groups on memory, attention, executive function and psychomotor performance. Current neuroimaging studies have found promising effects of anthocyanin supplementation on brain activation and cerebral perfusion.

CONCLUSION

Anthocyanin-rich supplementation may preserve cognitive processing speed and neuro-activities in older adults, which improves their daily functioning and quality of life. This review provides useful insights to guide direction and methodological designs for future studies to explore the underlying mechanisms of anthocyanins.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS REGISTRATION

PROSPERO registration No. CRD42021228007.

The antioxidant glutathione

Reduced glutathione (GSH) is an essential non-enzymatic antioxidant in mammalian cells. GSH can act directly as an antioxidant to protect cells against free radicals and pro-oxidants, and as a cofactor for antioxidant and detoxification enzymes such as glutathione peroxidases, glutathione S-transferases, and glyoxalases. Glutathione peroxidases detoxify peroxides by a reaction that is coupled to GSH oxidation to glutathione disulfide (GSSG). GSSG is converted back to GSH by glutathione reductase and cofactor NADPH. GSH can regenerate vitamin E following detoxification reactions of vitamin E with lipid peroxyl radicals (LOO). GSH is a cofactor for GST during detoxification of electrophilic substances and xenobiotics. Dicarbonyl stress induced by methylglyoxal and glyoxal is alleviated by glyoxalase enzymes and GSH. GSH regulates redox signaling through reversible oxidation of critical protein cysteine residues by S-glutathionylation. GSH is involved in other cellular processes such as protein folding, protecting protein thiols from oxidation and crosslinking, degradation of proteins with disulfide bonds, cell cycle regulation and proliferation, ascorbate metabolism, apoptosis and ferroptosis.

MS-5, a Naphthalene Derivative, Induces Apoptosis in Human Pancreatic Cancer BxPC-3 Cells by Modulating Reactive Oxygen Species

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most fatal cancers with a poor prognosis. Standard chemotherapies have proven largely ineffective because of their toxicity and the development of resistance. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop novel therapies. In this study, we investigated the antitumor activity of MS-5, a naphthalene derivative, on BxPC-3, a human pancreatic cancer cell line. We observed that MS-5 was cytotoxic to BxPC-3 cells, as well as inhibited the growth of cells in a concentration- and time- dependent manner. Flow cytometry analysis revealed that the percentage of annexin V-positive cells increased after MS-5 treatment. We also observed cleavage of caspases and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase, and downregulation of Bcl-xL protein. Flow cytometry analysis of intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial superoxide suggested that MS-5 induced the generation of mitochondrial superoxide while lowering the overall intracellular ROS levels. Thus, MS-5 may be potential candidate for pancreatic cancer treatment.

The mechanisms of glycolipid metabolism disorder on vascular injury in type 2 diabetes

Patients with diabetes have severe vascular complications, such as diabetic nephropathy, diabetic retinopathy, cardiovascular disease, and neuropathy. Devastating vascular complications lead to increased mortality, blindness, kidney failure, and decreased overall quality of life in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Glycolipid metabolism disorder plays a vital role in the vascular complications of T2D. However, the specific mechanism of action remains to be elucidated. In T2D patients, vascular damage begins to develop before insulin resistance and clinical diagnosis. Endothelial dysregulation is a significant cause of vascular complications and the early event of vascular injury. Hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia can trigger inflammation and oxidative stress, which impair endothelial function. Furthermore, during the pathogenesis of T2D, epigenetic modifications are aberrant and activate various biological processes, resulting in endothelial dysregulation. In the present review, we provide an overview and discussion of the roles of hyperglycemia- and hyperlipidemia-induced endothelial dysfunction, inflammatory response, oxidative stress, and epigenetic modification in the pathogenesis of T2D. Understanding the connections of glucotoxicity and lipotoxicity with vascular injury may reveal a novel potential therapeutic target for diabetic vascular complications.

Compound C Inhibits Renca Renal Epithelial Carcinoma Growth in Syngeneic Mouse Models by Blocking Cell Cycle Progression, Adhesion and Invasion

Compound C (CompC), an inhibitor of AMP-activated protein kinase, reduces the viability of various renal carcinoma cells. The molecular mechanism underlying anti-proliferative effect was investigated by flow cytometry and western blot analysis in Renca cells. Its effect on the growth of Renca xenografts was also examined in a syngeneic BALB/c mouse model. Subsequent results demonstrated that CompC reduced platelet-derived growth factor receptor signaling pathways and increased ERK1/2 activation as well as reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. CompC also increased the level of active Wee1 tyrosine kinase (P-Ser⁶⁴²-Wee1) and the inactive form of Cdk1 (P-Tyr¹⁵-Cdk1) while reducing the level of active histone H3 (P-Ser¹⁰-H3). ROS-dependent ERK1/2 activation and sequential alterations in Wee1, Cdk1, and histone H3 might be responsible for the CompC-induced G2/M cell cycle arrest and cell viability reduction. In addition, CompC reduced the adhesion, migration, and invasion of Renca cells in the in vitro cell systems, and growth of Renca xenografts in the BALB/c mouse model. Taken together, the inhibition of in vivo tumor growth by CompC may be attributed to the blockage of cell cycle progression, adhesion, migration, and invasion of tumor cells. These findings suggest the therapeutic potential of CompC against tumor development and progression.

Differential expression and methylation patterns of NFATC1, NADSYN1 and JAK3 gene in equine chondrocytes expanded in monolayer culture

Ex vivo expansion of chondrocytes in monolayer (ML) culture for therapeutic purposes is burdened with difficulties related to the loss of cartilaginous phenotype. Epigenetic mechanisms responsible for regulation of gene expression are believed to underlie chondrocyte dedifferentiation. We have inspected the relevance of DNA methylation alterations for passage-related differential expression of NFATC1 gene involved in hard connective tissue turnover and development, NADSYN1 influencing redox metabolism, and JAK3 - an important driver of inflammation. We have assessed relative amount of transcript abundance and performed DNA bisulfite sequencing of upstream located elements. It seems that anabolic-like effects of chondrogenic differentiation were observed in form of NFATC1 and NADSYN1 upregulation in chondrocytes at the earlier stages of passaging whereas JAK3 upregulation at the 11th passage was the sign of chondrocytes dedifferentiation. Summarizing the inversely correlated DNA methylation and expression patterns in NFATC1 and JAK3 locus might be relevant for cellular dedifferentiation during chondrocyte expansion in monolayer. Obtained results are supportive for further studies on the role of encoded proteins in regenerative biology of articular cartilage using in vitro expanded chondrocytes.

Melatonin Prevents UVB-Induced Skin Photoaging by Inhibiting Oxidative Damage and MMP Expression through JNK/AP-1 Signaling Pathway in Human Dermal Fibroblasts

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) irradiation causes damage to the skin and induces photoaging. UV irradiation stimulates production of reactive oxygen/nitrogen species, which results in activation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) in fibroblasts. MAPKs are responsible for activation of activator protein-1 (AP-1), which subsequently upregulates expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Melatonin is a potent free radical scavenger which is known to have photoprotective effects. The aim of this study is to investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms for the photoprotective effects of melatonin in UVB-irradiated primary human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) in terms of EGFR activation, oxidative/nitrosative damage, JNK/AP-1 activation, MMP activities, and the levels of tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) and type I procollagen (PIP-C). In this study, HDFs were pretreated with 1 μM of melatonin and then irradiated with 0.1 J/cm² of UVB. Changes in the molecules were analyzed at different time points. Melatonin inhibited UVB-induced oxidative/nitrosative stress damage by reducing malondialdehyde, the ratio of oxidized/reduced glutathione, and nitrotyrosine. Melatonin downregulated UV-induced activation of EGFR and the JNK/AP-1 signaling pathway. UVB-induced activities of MMP-1 and MMP-3 were decreased and levels of TIMP-1 and PIP-C were increased by melatonin. These findings suggest that melatonin can protect against the adverse effects of UVB radiation by inhibiting MMP-1 and MMP-3 activity and increasing TIMP-1 and PIP-C levels, probably through the suppression of oxidative/nitrosative damage, EGFR, and JNK/AP-1 activation in HDFs.

Cineole alleviates the BPA-inhibited NETs formation by regulating the p38 pathway-mediated programmed cell death

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine disruptor, that can cause immune dysfunction. Cineole (CIN) has that effect of regulating immune function and resist oxidation. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are one of the ways to resist pathogen invasion. In order to explore the effects of BPA and CIN on the release of chicken NETs and the antagonistic effect of CIN, take chicken peripheral blood neutrophils as object of study, grouping as NC, CIN, BPA + CIN and BPA. SEM, flow cytometry, RT-PCR, Western-blot and other methods were used to detect related indicators. The results showed that BPA inhibited the activities of GPX, SOD and CAT, increased the contents of MDA and NO, increased the activity of iNOS. BPA exposure inhibited the expression of myeloperoxidase (MPO), neutrophil elastase (NE) and histone, and inhibited the release of NETs. BPA activated downstream apoptosis and necroptosis through the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38-MAPK) pathway, which increased the expression of cytochrome C (CytC), bcl-2 associated K protein gene (bak), cysteinyl aspartate specific proteinase 3 (caspase-3), cysteinyl aspartate specific proteinase 9 (caspase-9), receptor-interacting protein kinase 1 (RIPK1), receptor-interacting protein kinase 1 (RIPK3) and mixed lineage kinase domain-like protein (MLKL), decreased the expression of B-cell lymphoma-2 (bcl-2). However, the co-exposure of CIN and BPA partially recovered the release of NETs, alleviated BPA-induced oxidative stress, and inhibited the activation of p38-MAPK pathway, necroptosis, and mitochondrial apoptosis pathway. These results indicated that CIN modulated p38 pathway alleviated BPA-induced neutrophil necroptosis and apoptosis, and increased NETs formation.

MAPK Cascades and Transcriptional Factors: Regulation of Heavy Metal Tolerance in Plants

In nature, heavy metal (HM) stress is one of the most destructive abiotic stresses for plants. Heavy metals produce toxicity by targeting key molecules and important processes in plant cells. The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade transfers the signals perceived by cell membrane surface receptors to cells through phosphorylation and dephosphorylation and targets various effector proteins or transcriptional factors so as to result in the stress response. Signal molecules such as plant hormones, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and nitric oxide (NO) can activate the MAPK cascade through differentially expressed genes, the activation of the antioxidant system and synergistic crosstalk between different signal molecules in order to regulate plant responses to HMs. Transcriptional factors, located downstream of MAPK, are key factors in regulating plant responses to heavy metals and improving plant heavy metal tolerance and accumulation. Thus, understanding how HMs activate the expression of the genes related to the MAPK cascade pathway and then phosphorylate those transcriptional factors may allow us to develop a regulation network to increase our knowledge of HMs tolerance and accumulation. This review highlighted MAPK pathway activation and responses under HMs and mainly focused on the specificity of MAPK activation mediated by ROS, NO and plant hormones. Here, we also described the signaling pathways and their interactions under heavy metal stresses. Moreover, the process of MAPK phosphorylation and the response of downstream transcriptional factors exhibited the importance of regulating targets. It was conducive to analyzing the molecular mechanisms underlying heavy metal accumulation and tolerance.

Protective effects of the postbiotic deriving from cow's milk fermentation with L. paracasei CBA L74 against Rotavirus infection in human enterocytes

Rotavirus (RV) is the leading cause of acute gastroenteritis-associated mortality in early childhood. Emerging clinical evidence suggest the efficacy of the postbiotic approach based on cow's milk fermentation with the probiotic Lacticaseibacillus paracasei CBAL74 (FM-CBAL74) in preventing pediatric acute gastroenteritis, but the mechanisms of action are still poorly characterized. We evaluated the protective action of FM-CBAL74 in an in vitro model of RV infection in human enterocytes. The number of infected cells together with the relevant aspects of RV infection were assessed: epithelial barrier damage (tight-junction proteins and transepithelial electrical resistance evaluation), and inflammation (reactive oxygen species, pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α, and mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway activation). Pre-incubation with FM-CBA L74 resulted in an inhibition of epithelial barrier damage and inflammation mediated by mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway activation induced by RV infection. Modulating several protective mechanisms, the postbiotic FM-CBAL74 exerted a preventive action against RV infection. This approach could be a disrupting nutritional strategy against one of the most common killers for the pediatric age.

Sargahydroquinoic acid isolated from Sargassum serratifolium as inhibitor of cellular basophils activation and passive cutaneous anaphylaxis in mice

Basophils and mast cells are characteristic effector cells in allergic reactions. Sargahydorquinoic acid (SHQA), a compound isolated from Sargassum serratifolium (marine alga), possesses various biochemical properties, including potent antioxidant activities. The objective of the present study was to investigate inhibitory effects of SHQA on the activation of human basophilic KU812F cells induced by phorbol myristate acetate and A23187 (PMACI), a calcium ionophore. Furthermore, we confirmed the inhibitory effects of SHQA on the activation of rat basophilic leukemia (RBL)-2H3 cells induced by compound 48/80 (com 48/80), bone marrow-derived mast cells (BMCMCs) induced by anti-dinitrophenyl(DNP)-immunoglobulin E (IgE)/DNP-bovine serum albumin (BSA), DNP/IgE and on the reaction of passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) mediated by IgE. SHQA reduced PMACI-induced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and calcium levels. Western blot analysis revealed that SHQA downregulated the activation of ERK, p38, and NF-κB in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, SHQA suppressed the production and gene expression of various cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-1 β, IL-4, IL-6, and IL-8 in PMACI-induced KU812F cells and IL-4 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)- α in com 48/80-induced RBL-2H3 cells. It also determined the inhibition of PMACI, com 48/80- and IgE/DNP-induced degranulation by reducing the release of β -hexosaminidase. Furthermore, it attenuated the IgE/DNP-induced PCA reaction in the ears of BALB/c mice. These results suggest that SHQA isolated from S. serratifolium is a potential therapeutic functional food material for inhibiting effector cell activation in allergic reactions and anaphylaxis in animal model.

Selenium nanoparticles alleviate lead acetate-induced toxicological and morphological changes in rat testes through modulation of calmodulin-related genes expression

Lead (Pb) is one of the most common toxic heavy metals. It is a well-known testicular toxicant. Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) are a more effective form of elemental selenium that reduces drug-induced toxicities. This study aimed to study the possible ameliorating effect of SeNPs on the toxicological and morphological changes in testes of lead acetate intoxicated rats. The study was conducted on 40 adult male albino rats divided into four groups; control, SeNPs-treated, lead acetate-treated, lead acetate and SeNPS treated groups. The concurrent treatment of lead acetate-exposed rats with SeNPs (0.1 mg/kg/day) for 12 weeks significantly lowered the blood and testicular lead levels, increased serum testosterone, and decreased luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone to approach control values. In addition, it improved the histopathological, and ultrastructural alterations of the testes and improved the immunohistochemical expression of the c-kit. This was accompanied by maintenance of the testicular oxidant/antioxidant balance and reversing the lead-induced disrupted calmodulin-related genes expression in testicular tissue in the form of downregulation of CAMMK2 and MAP2K6 and upregulation of CXCR4 genes. There was a strong positive correlation between testicular malondialdehyde and MAP2K6 expression level as well as a strong positive correlation between CXCR4 gene expression and the C-kit area %. In conclusion, SeNPs can be considered as a potential therapy for a lead-induced testicular injury.

Involvement of FoxO1, Sp1, and Nrf2 in Upregulation of Negative Regulator of ROS by 15d-PGJ2 Attenuates H2O2-Induced IL-6 Expression in Rat Brain Astrocytes

Excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by NADPH oxidase (Nox) resulted in inflammation. The negative regulator of ROS (NRROS) dampens ROS generation during inflammatory responses. 15-Deoxy-∆12,14-prostaglandin J₂ (15d-PGJ₂) exhibits neuroprotective effects on central nervous system (CNS). However, whether 15d-PGJ₂-induced NRROS expression was unknown in rat brain astrocytes (RBA-1). NRROS expression was determined by Western blot, RT/real-time PCR, and promoter activity assays. The signaling components were investigated using pharmacological inhibitors or specific siRNAs. The interaction between transcription factors and the NRROS promoter was investigated by chromatin immunoprecipitation assay. Upregulation of NRROS on the hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-mediated ROS generation and interleukin 6 (IL-6) secretion was measured. 15d-PGJ₂-induced NRROS expression was mediated through PI3K/Akt-dependent activation of Sp1 and FoxO1 and established the essential promoter regions. We demonstrated that 15d-PGJ₂ activated PI3K/Akt and following by cooperation between phosphorylated nuclear FoxO1 and Sp1 to initiate the NRROS transcription. In addition, Nrf2 played a key role in NRROS expression induced by 15d-PGJ₂ which was mediated through its phosphorylation. Finally, the NRROS stable clones attenuated the H₂O₂-induced ROS generation and expression of IL-6 through suppressing the Nox-2 activity. These results suggested that 15d-PGJ₂-induced NRROS expression is mediated through a PI3K/Akt-dependent FoxO1 and Sp1 phosphorylation, and Nrf2 cascade, which suppresses ROS generation through attenuating the p47^phox phosphorylation and gp91^phox formation and IL-6 expression in RBA-1 cells. These results confirmed the mechanisms underlying 15d-PGJ₂-induced NRROS expression which might be a potential strategy for prevention and management of brain inflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases.

Spatial Regulation of Reactive Oxygen Species via G6PD in Brown Adipocytes Supports Thermogenic Function

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are associated with various roles of brown adipocytes. Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) controls cellular redox potentials by producing NADPH. Although G6PD upregulates cellular ROS levels in white adipocytes, the roles of G6PD in brown adipocytes remain elusive. Here, we found that G6PD defect in brown adipocytes impaired thermogenic function through excessive cytosolic ROS accumulation. Upon cold exposure, G6PD-deficient mutant (G6PD^mut) mice exhibited cold intolerance and downregulated thermogenic gene expression in brown adipose tissue (BAT). In addition, G6PD-deficient brown adipocytes had increased cytosolic ROS levels, leading to extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activation. In BAT of G6PD^mut mice, administration of antioxidant restored the thermogenic activity by potentiating thermogenic gene expression and relieving ERK activation. Consistently, body temperature and thermogenic execution were rescued by ERK inhibition in cold-exposed G6PD^mut mice. Taken together, these data suggest that G6PD in brown adipocytes would protect against cytosolic oxidative stress, leading to cold-induced thermogenesis.

Dietary Antioxidant Anthocyanins Mitigate Type II Diabetes through Improving the Disorder of Glycometabolism and Insulin Resistance

Insulin resistance (IR) is one of the pathological reasons for type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Therefore, it is important to prevent the body from developing T2DM by improving IR and maintaining glucose homeostasis. Anthocyanins (ACNs) are water-soluble pigments and are widely distributed in natural products. This article summarizes research on the bioavailability and metabolism of ACNs. Moreover, we further elaborate on how ACNs reduce IR and hyperglycemia during the development of T2DM based on studies over the past 20 years. Many studies have demonstrated that ACNs are small molecules that target the pancreatic, liver, muscle, and adipose tissues, preventing IR and hyperglycemia. However, the molecular mechanisms are still unclear. Therefore, we envision whether the molecular mechanism of reducing T2DM by ACNs could be more deeply investigated.

Eriocitrin, a dietary flavonoid suppressed cell proliferation, induced apoptosis through modulation of JAK2/STAT3 and JNK/p38 MAPKs signaling pathway in MCF-7 cells

Eriocitrin, a lemons flavanone, exhibits several biological properties, antiproliferative, and proapoptotic effects. However, its molecular mechanical action is not entirely clarified. Oxidative stress causes abnormal stimulation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) signaling has been strongly connected with the ruling of cell survival and apoptosis of cancer cells. Herein, we investigated an antiproliferative and proapoptotic effect that Eriocitrin modulates STAT3/MAPKs signaling activation in MCF-7 cells. We noticed that Eriocitrin strongly enhances reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, alteration of mitochondrial outer membrane potential, and enhances apoptotic morphological changes. Furthermore, Eriocitrin suppressed STAT3 phosphorylation via inhibiting an upstream molecule of JAK2 and Src kinase activation, thereby blocking STAT3 nuclear translocation. Similarly, Eriocitrin causes oxidative stress-mediated JNK/p38 MAPK signaling activation. We confirmed that Eriocitrin induced ROS-mediated apoptosis inhibited by the antioxidant substance of N-acetylcysteine. Eriocitrin induced apoptosis via suppression of STAT3 signaling regulated proteins, activating proapoptotic factors Bax, caspase 7, 8, 9 and suppressing Bcl-2, Bcl-x expression in MCF-7 cells. Overall, these results evidenced that Eriocitrin can affect multiple signaling events associated with tumorigenesis. From this evidence, Eriocitrin, a novel chemotherapeutic agent, can be used to treat breast cancer.

Integrating network pharmacology and experimental evidence to decipher the cardioprotective mechanism of Yiqihuoxue decoction in rats after myocardial infarction

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

"Qi deficiency and blood stasis" syndrome is one of the most common syndromes treated with Traditional Chinese Medicine among ischemic heart disease (IHD) patients in clinic. As a Chinese herbal formula with the function of tonifying Qi and activating blood, Yiqihuoxue Decoction (YQHX) has been frequently proven to be effective in the clinical treatment of IHD.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The cardioprotective mechanisms of YQHX in treating ischemic heart disease were investigated, with emphasis on the key targets and pathways.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In the present study, the potential targets of compounds identified in YQHX were predicted using PharmMapper, Symmap, and STITCH databases, and a "herb-compound-target" network was constructed using Cytoscape. Subsequently, the GO and KEGG functional enrichment analyses were analyzed using the DAVID database. Furthermore, a protein-protein interaction network was constructed using STRING to obtain the key target information. Besides, we used a myocardial ischemia rat model to investigate the cardioprotective effects of YQHX. Transmission electron microscopy and Western blotting were used to observe apoptotic bodies and confirm protein expressions of key candidate targets, respectively.

RESULTS

Network pharmacology showed that a total of 141 potential targets were obtained from these databases. The functional analysis results revealed that the targets of YQHX were largely associated with apoptosis, and the PI3K-AKT and MAPK pathways might represent key functional pathways. The hub genes of network include ALB, TP53, AKT1, TNF, VEGFA, EGFR, MAPK1, CASP3, JUN, FN1, MMP9, and MAPK8. In vivo, YQHX significantly improved cardiac function and suppressed apoptosis in ischemic rat myocardium. Furthermore, YQHX could significantly upregulate Nrf2 and HO-1 expression, and inhibit JNK phosphorylation.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on network pharmacology and experimental evidence, this study proves that the cardioprotective effects and mechanisms of YQHX depend on multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway. In particular, YQHX exerts anti-apoptotic effects potentially by regulating the Nrf2/HO-1 and JNK-MAPK pathways.

TRK inhibitors block NFKB and induce NRF2 in TRK fusion-positive colon cancer

Tropomyosin receptor kinase (TRK) fusion is one of the oncogenic driver causes of colon cancer, and tropomyosin 3-neurotrophic receptor tyrosine kinase 1 (TPM3-NTRK1) fusion has been detected in the KM12SM cell line. In the present study, we investigated anticancer mechanisms in the KM12SM cell line using three different form of dovitinib (dovitinib (free base), dovitinib lactate (mono acid), and dovitinib dilactic acid (diacid)) and four TRK inhibitors (LOXO-101, entrectinib, regorafenib, and crizotinib). Exposure of TRK inhibitors at concentrations of 10 nM resulted in the apoptosis of KM12SM cells, whereas regorafenib had no effect. Treatment with all inhibitors except regorafenib also significantly increased the expression levels of the genes nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) and glutamyl cysteine ligase catalytic subunit (GCLC) in KM12SM. These drugs significantly reduced expression of the phosphorylated proteins NFκB and COX-2 in the KM12SM cell line, and significantly attenuated KM12SM cell migration, according to a Transwell migration assay. Together, these results suggest that TRK inhibitors block products of carcinogenesis by negatively regulating the NFκB signaling pathway and positively regulating the antioxidant NRF2 signaling pathway.

p38-mediated cell growth and survival drive rapid embryonic wound repair

Embryos repair wounds rapidly, with no inflammation or scarring, in a process that involves polarization of the actomyosin cytoskeleton. Actomyosin polarization results in the assembly of a contractile cable around the wound that drives wound closure. Here, we demonstrate that a contractile actomyosin cable is not sufficient for rapid wound repair in Drosophila embryos. We show that wounding causes activation of the serine/threonine kinase p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) in the cells adjacent to the wound. p38 activation reduces the levels of wound-induced reactive oxygen species in the cells around the wound, limiting wound size. In addition, p38 promotes an increase in volume in the cells around the wound, thus facilitating the collective cell movements that drive rapid wound healing. Our data indicate that p38 regulates cell volumes through the sodium-potassium-chloride cotransporter NKCC1. Our work reveals cell growth and cell survival as cell behaviors critical for embryonic wound repair.

Green tea catechins EGCG and ECG enhance the fitness and lifespan of Caenorhabditis elegans by complex I inhibition

Green tea catechins are associated with a delay in aging. We have designed the current study to investigate the impact and to unveil the target of the most abundant green tea catechins, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and epicatechin gallate (ECG).

Experiments were performed in Caenorhabditis elegans to analyze cellular metabolism, ROS homeostasis, stress resistance, physical exercise capacity, health- and lifespan, and the underlying signaling pathways. Besides, we examined the impact of EGCG and ECG in isolated murine mitochondria.

A concentration of 2.5 μM EGCG and ECG enhanced health- and lifespan as well as stress resistance in C. elegans. Catechins hampered mitochondrial respiration in C. elegans after 6–12 h and the activity of complex I in isolated rodent mitochondria. The impaired mitochondrial respiration was accompanied by a transient drop in ATP production and a temporary increase in ROS levels in C. elegans. After 24 h, mitochondrial respiration and ATP levels got restored, and ROS levels even dropped below control conditions. The lifespan increases induced by EGCG and ECG were dependent on AAK-2/AMPK and SIR-2.1/SIRT1, as well as on PMK-1/p38 MAPK, SKN-1/NRF2, and DAF-16/FOXO. Long-term effects included significantly diminished fat content and enhanced SOD and CAT activities, required for the positive impact of catechins on lifespan.

In summary, complex I inhibition by EGCG and ECG induced a transient drop in cellular ATP levels and a temporary ROS burst, resulting in SKN-1 and DAF-16 activation. Through adaptative responses, catechins reduced fat content, enhanced ROS defense, and improved healthspan in the long term.

ERK: A Double-Edged Sword in Cancer. ERK-Dependent Apoptosis as a Potential Therapeutic Strategy for Cancer

The RAF/MEK/ERK signaling pathway regulates diverse cellular processes as exemplified by cell proliferation, differentiation, motility, and survival. Activation of ERK1/2 generally promotes cell proliferation, and its deregulated activity is a hallmark of many cancers. Therefore, components and regulators of the ERK pathway are considered potential therapeutic targets for cancer, and inhibitors of this pathway, including some MEK and BRAF inhibitors, are already being used in the clinic. Notably, ERK1/2 kinases also have pro-apoptotic functions under certain conditions and enhanced ERK1/2 signaling can cause tumor cell death. Although the repertoire of the compounds which mediate ERK activation and apoptosis is expanding, and various anti-cancer compounds induce ERK activation while exerting their anti-proliferative effects, the mechanisms underlying ERK1/2-mediated cell death are still vague. Recent studies highlight the importance of dual-specificity phosphatases (DUSPs) in determining the pro- versus anti-apoptotic function of ERK in cancer. In this review, we will summarize the recent major findings in understanding the role of ERK in apoptosis, focusing on the major compounds mediating ERK-dependent apoptosis. Studies that further define the molecular targets of these compounds relevant to cell death will be essential to harnessing these compounds for developing effective cancer treatments.

Detection of Oxidative Stress Induced by Nanomaterials in Cells-The Roles of Reactive Oxygen Species and Glutathione

The potential of nanomaterials use is huge, especially in fields such as medicine or industry. Due to widespread use of nanomaterials, their cytotoxicity and involvement in cellular pathways ought to be evaluated in detail. Nanomaterials can induce the production of a number of substances in cells, including reactive oxygen species (ROS), participating in physiological and pathological cellular processes. These highly reactive substances include: superoxide, singlet oxygen, hydroxyl radical, and hydrogen peroxide. For overall assessment, there are a number of fluorescent probes in particular that are very specific and selective for given ROS. In addition, due to the involvement of ROS in a number of cellular signaling pathways, understanding the principle of ROS production induced by nanomaterials is very important. For defense, the cells have a number of reparative and especially antioxidant mechanisms. One of the most potent antioxidants is a tripeptide glutathione. Thus, the glutathione depletion can be a characteristic manifestation of harmful effects caused by the prooxidative-acting of nanomaterials in cells. For these reasons, here we would like to provide a review on the current knowledge of ROS-mediated cellular nanotoxicity manifesting as glutathione depletion, including an overview of approaches for the detection of ROS levels in cells.

Mapping the molecular basis for growth related phenotypes in industrial producer CHO cell lines using differential proteomic analysis

Background

The ability to achieve high peak viable cell density earlier in CHO cell culture and maintain an extended cell viability throughout the production process is highly desirable to increase recombinant protein yields, reduce host cell impurities for downstream processing and reduce the cost of goods. In this study we implemented label-free LC-MS/MS proteomic profiling of IgG4 producing CHO cell lines throughout the duration of the cell culture to identify differentially expressed (DE) proteins and intracellular pathways associated with the high peak viable cell density (VCD) and extended culture VCD phenotypes.

Results

We identified key pathways in DNA replication, mitotic cell cycle and evasion of p53 mediated apoptosis in high peak VCD clonally derived cell lines (CDCLs). ER to Golgi vesicle mediated transport was found to be highly expressed in extended culture VCD CDCLs while networks involving endocytosis and oxidative stress response were significantly downregulated.

Conclusion

This investigation highlights key pathways for targeted engineering to generate desirable CHO cell phenotypes for biotherapeutic production.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12896-021-00704-8.

The Protective Effects of a Combination of an Arginine Silicate Complex and Magnesium Biotinate Against UV-Induced Skin Damage in Rats

The purpose of this study was to observe the effects of a novel combination of inositol-stabilized arginine silicate complex (ASI) and magnesium biotinate (MgB) on the prevention of skin damage after UVB exposure in rats. Forty-nine Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into one of the following groups: (1) NC, normal control, (2) SC, shaved control, (3) UVB (exposed to UVB radiation), (4) ASI+MgB-L (Low Dose), (5) ASI+MgB-H (High Dose), (6) ASI+MgB-L+MgB cream, (7) ASI+MgB-H+MgB cream. The results showed that ASI+MgB treatment alleviated the macroscopic and histopathological damages in the skin of rats caused by UVB exposure. Skin elasticity evaluation showed a similar trend. ASI+MgB increased serum Mg, Fe, Zn, Cu, Si, biotin, and arginine concentrations and skin hydroxyproline and biotinidase levels while decreasing skin elastase activity (p < 0.05) and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration (p < 0.001). Moreover, ASI+MgB treatment increased skin levels of biotin-dependent carboxylases (ACC1, ACC2, PC, PCC, MCC) and decreased mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathways and matrix metalloproteinase protein levels by the regulation of the activator protein 1 (AP-1), and mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPKs) signaling pathways. In addition, ASI+MgB caused lower levels of inflammatory factors, including TNF-α, NFκB, IL-6, IL-8, and COX-2 in the skin samples (p < 0.05). The levels of Bax and caspase-3 were increased, while anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 was decreased by UVB exposure, which was reversed by ASI+MgB treatment. These results show that treatment with ASI and MgB protects against skin damage by improving skin appearance, elasticity, inflammation, apoptosis, and overall health.