Melatonin alleviates LPS-induced endoplasmic reticulum stress and inflammation in spermatogonial stem cells

NG-497 Alleviates Microglia-Mediated Neuroinflammation in a MTNR1A-Dependent Manner

Microglia-mediated neuroinflammation plays a crucial role in multiple neurological diseases. We have previously found that Atglistatin, the mouse Adipose Triglyceride Lipase (ATGL) inhibitor, could promote lipid droplets (LDs) accumulation and suppress LPS-induced neuroinflammation in mouse microglia. However, Atglistatin was species-selective, which limited its use in clinical settings. Here, we found that NG-497, a previously identified human ATGL inhibitor, significantly increased LDs accumulation and inhibited LPS-induced pro-inflammatory responses in human microglia. Moreover, NG-497 also protected human neurons against neurotoxic cytokines in a humanized in vitro model of neuroinflammation. However, the anti-inflammatory capacity of NG-497 was independent of its effect on ATGL. Instead, we revealed that NG-497 alleviated microglia-mediated neuroinflammation through elevating the protein level of melatonin receptor 1A (MTNR1A). Therefore, in this study, we uncovered a novel MTNR1A-targeting compound, which exhibited anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effect, highlighting its potential in the treatment of neuroinflammation. Moreover, the MTNRs agonist, Ramelteon, exerts comparable anti-inflammation effects with NG-497.

Deoxynivalenol-mediated kidney injury via endoplasmic reticulum stress in mice

OBJECTIVE

Deoxynivalenol (DON) is a common fungal toxin that poses significant health risks to humans and animals. The present study aimed to investigate the adverse effects and molecular mechanisms of DON-induced kidney injury.

METHODS

Male C57BL/6 mice aged 5-6 weeks were used to establish a DON-induced acute kidney injury model. Histological analysis, biochemical assays, molecular techniques, Western blot, RNA sequencing, and transmission electron microscopy were employed to analyze kidney damage, inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress.

RESULTS

DON disrupted kidney morphology, induced inflammatory cell infiltration, and triggered inflammatory responses. DON increased MDA content while decreasing antioxidant enzyme activity (SOD and CAT). It also triggered apoptosis, evidenced by elevated levels of caspase-12, cleaved caspase-3, and BAX, and reduced levels of Bcl-2. Transcriptomic analysis identified distinct expression patterns in 1756 genes in DON-exposed mouse kidneys, notably upregulating ER stress-related genes. Further investigation revealed ultrastructural changes in the ER and mitochondrial damage induced by DON, along with increased levels of p-IRE1, p-PERK, and their downstream targets, indicating unfolded protein response (UPR) activation in the kidney. The ER stress inhibitor 4-Phenylbutyric acid (4-PBA) significantly mitigated DON-induced ER stress, oxidative damage, apoptosis, tissue injury, ER expansion, and mitochondrial damage.

CONCLUSION

Our findings highlight the role of ER stress in DON-induced kidney injury and the protective effect of 4-PBA against these adverse effects.

The Impact of Chemokine-Like Receptor 1 Gene Knockout on Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Epididymo-Orchitis in Mice

This comprehensive study delved into the pivotal function of chemokine-like receptor 1 (CMKLR1) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-triggered epididymo-orchitis in mice. Upon LPS exposure, wild-type (WT) mice exhibited marked elevations in serum pro-inflammatory markers, including G-CSF, IL-6, and RANTES, along with heightened levels of TNF-α and IL-6 in testicular and epididymal tissues, which accompanied by pronounced structural damage within the testicular tissue and a concurrent decline in serum testosterone, estradiol (E2) levels, and testicular steroid synthetase expression. Remarkably, Cmklr1 gene ablation intensified the pro-inflammatory response in the serum (especially IFN-γ), testes, and epididymis of epididymo-orchitis models. Furthermore, Cmklr1 deficiency uniquely induced structural alterations within the epididymis, which is absent in the WT model. This genetic manipulation also exacerbated the decline in serum testosterone and E2 levels and testicular steroid synthase activity. While chemerin levels were significantly diminished in WT epididymo-orchitis models, Cmklr1 knockout had no discernible effect on chemerin expression in the model. In addition, a noteworthy observation was the elevation of the serum low density lipoprotein/high density lipoprotein (LDL/HDL) ratio in Cmklr1-deficient mice. Collectively, these findings underscore that the lack of chemerin/CMKLR1 signaling axis could potentially worsen the symptoms during LPS-induced epididymo-orchitis, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target in related pathologies.

Potential mechanisms and therapeutic strategies for LPS-associated female fertility decline

As a major component of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) can be recognized by toll-like receptors (TLRs) and induce inflammation through MyD88 or the TIR domain-containing adapter-inducing interferon-β (TRIF) pathway. Previous studies have found that LPS-associated inflammatory/immune challenges were associated with ovarian dysfunction and reduced female fertility. However, the etiology and pathogenesis of female fertility decline associated with LPS are currently complex and multifaceted. In this review, PubMed was used to search for references on LPS and fertility decline so as to elucidate the potential mechanisms of LPS-associated female fertility decline and summarize therapeutic strategies that may improve LPS-associated fertility decline.

Sulfur dioxide-triggered visualization tool for auxiliary diagnosis of alcohol-induced "anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory" development process

Inflammation is the most common disease in humans. Alcohol has been part of human culture throughout history. To avoid alcohol prompting inflammation to develop into a more serious disease, it is important for human health to explore the effects of alcohol on the development of inflammation.Endogenous sulfur dioxide (SO2) is considered an important regulator of the development of inflammation and is involved in the entire development process of inflammation. Taken together, it is of great significance to explore the impact of alcohol on the development process of inflammation through changes in SO2 concentration in the inflammatory microenvironment. Herein, we report the development of a molecular tool (Nu-SO2) with rapid (5 s) response to the important inflammatory modulator sulfur dioxide (SO2) for the diagnosis of inflammation, assessment of therapeutic effects, and evaluation of the development process of alcohol-induced inflammation. The rationality of Nu-SO2 was confirmed through molecular docking calculations, density functional theory (DFT) theoretical calculations, DNA/RNA titration experiments and co-localization experiments. Furthermore, Nu-SO2 was effectively applied for specific response and highly sensitive visualization imaging of SO2 in solution, cells and mice. Importantly, Nu-SO2 was successfully used to diagnose lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation in cells and mice and evaluate the efficacy of dexamethasone in treating inflammation. More significantly, based on the excellent performance of Nu-SO2 in dynamically reporting the further development of inflammation in mice triggered by alcohol, we successfully elucidated the "anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory" trend in the development of inflammation caused by alcohol stimulation. Thus, this work not only advances the research on the relationship between alcohol, inflammation and SO2, but also provides a new non-invasive assessment method for the development mechanism of inflammation induced by external stimuli and the precise diagnosis and treatment of drug efficacy evaluation.

SPARC overexpression in allogeneic adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells in dog dry eye model induced by benzalkonium chloride

BACKGROUND

Nowadays, companion and working dogs hold significant social and economic importance. Dry eye, also known as dry keratoconjunctivitis (KCS), a common disease in ophthalmology, can readily impact a dog's working capacity and lead to economic losses. Although there are several medications available for this disease, all of them only improve the symptoms on the surface of the eye, and they are irritating and not easy to use for long periods of time. Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSC) are promising candidates for tissue regeneration and disease treatment. However, long-term in vitro passaging leads to stemness loss of ADMSC. Here, we aimed to use ADMSC overexpressing Secreted Protein Acidic and Rich in Cysteine (SPARC) to treat 0.25% benzalkonium chloride-treated dogs with dry eye to verify its efficacy. For in vitro validation, we induced corneal epithelial cell (HCECs) damage using 1 µg/mL benzalkonium chloride.

METHODS

Fifteen male crossbred dogs were randomly divided into five groups: normal, dry eye self-healing control, cyclosporine-treated, ADMSC-CMV-treated and ADMSC-OESPARC-treated. HCECs were divided into four groups: normal control group, untreated model group, ADMSC-CMV supernatant culture group and ADMSC-OESRARC supernatant culture group.

RESULTS

SPARC-modified ADMSC had the most significant effect on canine ocular surface inflammation, corneal injury, and tear recovery, and the addition of ADMSC-OESPARC cell supernatant also had a salvage effect on HCECs cellular damage, such as cell viability and cell proliferation ability. Moreover, analysis of the co-transcriptome sequencing data showed that SPARC could promote corneal epithelial cell repair by enhancing the in vitro viability, migration and proliferation and immunosuppression of ADMSC.

CONCLUSION

The in vitro cell test and in vivo model totally suggest that the combination of SPARC and ADMSC has a promising future in novel dry eye therapy.

The effect of biological mechanisms of melatonin on the proliferation of spermatogonial stem cells: a systematic review

In the last decade, melatonin has gained recognition as a potent scavenger and an effective antioxidant capable of neutralizing free radicals, including reactive oxygen species. Additionally, it exhibits anti-apoptotic properties. In this review, we will examine a compilation of articles that explore the cellular signaling function of melatonin on spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) and adjacent cells such as Sertoli and Leydig cells. These cells play a crucial role in the proliferation of SSCs both in vitro and in vivo. In this review, we analyze the function of melatonin in the proliferation of SSCs from other aspects. For this purpose, we examine the articles based on the presence of melatonin on SSCs in four groups: As a supplement in SSCs medium culture, SSCs three-dimensional culture system, SSCs freezing medium, and as a therapeutic factor in vivo. Mechanisms of growth and proliferation of SSCs were considered. The purpose of this study is to investigate the potential effects of melatonin as a powerful antioxidant or growth stimulant for SSCs, both in vivo and in vitro.

RTCB deficiency triggers colitis in mice by influencing the NF-κB and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways

RNA terminal phosphorylase B (RTCB) has been shown to play a significant role in multiple physiological processes. However, the specific role of RTCB in the mouse colon remains unclear. In this study, we employ a conditional knockout mouse model to investigate the effects of RTCB depletion on the colon and the potential molecular mechanisms. We assess the efficiency and phenotype of Rtcb knockout using PCR, western blot analysis, histological staining, and immunohistochemistry. Compared with the control mice, the Rtcb-knockout mice exhibit compromised colonic barrier integrity and prominent inflammatory cell infiltration. In the colonic tissues of Rtcb-knockout mice, the protein levels of TNF-α, IL-8, and p-p65 are increased, whereas the levels of IKKβ and IκBα are decreased. Moreover, the level of GSK3β is increased, whereas the levels of Wnt3a, β-catenin, and LGR5 are decreased. Collectively, our findings unveil a close association between RTCB and colonic tissue homeostasis and demonstrate that RTCB deficiency can lead to dysregulation of both the NF-κB and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways in colonic cells.

UCHL1 maintains microenvironmental homeostasis in goat germline stem cells

Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) play a crucial role in mammalian spermatogenesis and maintain the stable inheritance of the germline in livestock. However, stress and bacterial or viral infections can disrupt immune homeostasis of the testes, thereby leading to spermatogenesis destruction and infertility, which severely affects the health and productivity of mammals. This study aimed to explore the effect of ubiquitin C-terminal hydrolase L1 (UCHL1) knockdown (KD) in goat SSCs and mouse testes and investigate the potential anti-inflammatory function of UCHL1 in a poly(I:C)-induced inflammation model to maintain microenvironmental homeostasis. In vitro, the downregulation of UCHL1 (UCHL1 KD) in goat SSCs increased the expression levels of apoptosis and inflammatory factors and inhibited the self-renewal and proliferation of SSCs. In vivo, the structure of seminiferous tubules and spermatogenic cells was disrupted after UCHL1 KD, and the expression levels of apoptosis- and inflammation-related proteins were significantly upregulated. Furthermore, UCHL1 inhibited the TLR3/TBK1/IRF3 pathway to resist poly(I:C)-induced inflammation in SSCs by antagonizing HSPA8 and thus maintaining SSC autoimmune homeostasis. Most importantly, the results of this study showed that UCHL1 maintained immune homeostasis of SSCs and spermatogenesis. UCHL1 KD not only inhibited the self-renewal and proliferation of goat SSCs and spermatogenesis but was also involved in the inflammatory response of goat SSCs. Additionally, UCHL1 has an antiviral function in SSCs by antagonizing HSPA8, which provides an important basis for exploring the specific mechanisms of UCHL1 in goat spermatogenesis.

Paternal lipopolysaccharide exposure induced intrauterine growth restriction via the inactivation of placental MEST/PI3K/AKT pathway in mice

Maternal lipopolysaccharide (LPS) exposure during pregnancy has been related to IUGR. Here, we explored whether paternal LPS exposure before mating impaired fetal development. All male mice except controls were intraperitoneally injected with LPS every other day for a total of five injections. The next day after the last LPS, male mice were mated with untreated female mice. Interestingly, fetal weight and crown-rump length were reduced, while the incidence of IUGR was increased in paternal LPS exposure group. Additionally, paternal LPS exposure leaded to poor placental development through causing cell proliferation inhibition and apoptosis. Additional experiment demonstrated that the inactivation of placental PI3K/AKT pathway might be involved in paternal LPS-induced cell proliferation inhibition and apoptosis of trophoblast cells. Furthermore, the mRNA and protein levels of mesoderm specific transcript (MEST), a maternally imprinted gene with paternal expression, were significantly decreased in mouse placentas from paternal LPS exposure. Further analysis showed that paternal LPS exposure caused the inactivation of placental PI3K/AKT pathway and then cell proliferation inhibition and apoptosis might be via down-regulating placental MEST. Overall, our results provide evidence that paternal LPS exposure causes poor placental development and subsequently IUGR may be via down-regulating MEST/PI3K/AKT pathway, and then inducing cell proliferation inhibition and apoptosis in placentas.

Eif2s3y alleviated LPS-induced damage to mouse testis and maintained spermatogenesis by negatively regulating Adamts5

Eif2s3y (eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2, subunit 3, structural gene Y-linked, Eif2s3y) is an essential gene for spermatogenesis. Early studies have shown that Eif2s3y can promote the proliferation of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) and can replace the Y chromosome together with sex-determining region Y (Sry) to transform SSCs into round spermatozoa. We injected lentiviral particles into the seminiferous tubules of mouse testes by sterile surgery surgically to establish overexpressing Eif2s3y testes. And then the mice were intraperitoneally injected with LPS to established the model of testis inflammation. Through RNA sequencing, qRT-PCR analysis, Western blot, co-culture etc., we found that Eif2s3y alleviated LPS-induced damage in mouse testes and maintained spermatogenesis. In testes with Eif2s3y overexpression, the seminiferous tubules were more regularly organized after exposure to LPS compared with the control. Eif2s3y performs its function by negatively regulating Adamts5 (a disintegrin and metalloproteinase containing a thrombospondin-1 motif), an extracellular matrix-degrading enzyme. ADAMTS5 shows a disruptive effect when the testis is exposed to LPS. Overexpression of Eif2s3y inhibited the TLR4/NFκB signaling pathway in the testis in response to LPS. Generally, our research shows that Eif2s3y protects the testis from LPS and maintains spermatogenesis by negatively regulating Adamts5.

Downregulation of XBP1s aggravates lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation by promoting NF-κB and NLRP3 pathways' activation in goat endometrial epithelial cells

After delivery, bacterial contamination and uterine tissue degeneration in animals can lead to the development of uterine diseases, such as endometritis, accompanied by endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS). Increasing evidence suggests that spliced X-box binding protein 1 (XBP1s), a critical component of ERS, is involved in several pathological processes in various organisms. However, the specific molecular mechanisms by which XBP1s mediates the inflammatory response in goat endometrial epithelial cells (gEECs) remain largely unknown. In the present study, XBP1s protein was induced into the nucleus in the lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 5 μg/mL)-induced inflammatory response of gEECs. Lipopolysaccharide-induced expression and nucleation of XBP1s were reduced by the inhibition of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) using TAK-242 (1 μM; a TLR4 inhibitor). Expression and nucleation of XBP1s were similarly reduced when the activity of inositol-requiring enzyme 1α (IRE1α) was inhibited using 4μ8C (10 μM; an IRE1α inhibitor). In addition, inhibition of IRE1a increased IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-8 levels and secretion of IL-6 induced by LPS. Notably, phosphorylation of nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) P65 protein and expression of NOD-like receptor thermal protein domain associated protein 3 (NLRP3) were similarly increased. Furthermore, knockdown of XBP1s in gEECs consistently promoted NF-κB P65 protein phosphorylation, NLRP3 protein expression, and inflammatory cytokine secretion. In summary, the current results suggest that in the LPS-induced inflammatory response in gEECs, LPS generates intracellular signaling cascades in gEECs via TLR4, which may promote XBP1s protein expression and nucleation by activating IRE1a. However, downregulation of XBP1s expression exacerbates inflammation by promoting activation of the NF-κB and NLRP3 inflammatory vesicle pathways. These results will potentially contribute to the treatment and prevention of endometritis in ruminants.

Melatonin Supplementation during In Vitro Maturation of Porcine Oocytes Alleviates Oxidative Stress and Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Induced by Imidacloprid Exposure

Imidacloprid (IMI) is an endogenous neonicotinoid insecticide widely used in agriculture and has attracted researchers' attention because of its risks to the environment and human health. Melatonin (MT) is an antioxidant hormone produced by the pineal gland of the brain. Studies have shown that it has a variety of physiological functions and plays a crucial role in the development of animal germ cells and embryos. The potential protective effects of MT against oocyte damage caused by neonicotinoid pesticide toxicity remain unclear. In this study, we report the toxicity of IMI against, and its effects on the quality of, porcine oocytes and the protective effect of MT on IMI-exposed oocytes. The results show that IMI exposure adversely affected oocyte maturation, while MT supplementation ameliorated its toxic effects. Specifically, IMI exposure increased oxidative stress (OS), endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS), and apoptosis, which may affect polar body expulsion rates and blastocyst formation. Also, IMI exposure reduced oocyte cleavage rates and the number of cells in blastocysts. However, all of these toxic effects can be restored after a melatonin supplementation treatment. In conclusion, these results suggest that melatonin has a protective effect on IMI-induced defects during porcine oocyte maturation.

Overview of biological effects of melatonin on testis: A review

Infertility is a major global health issue and male factors account for half of all infertility cases. One of the causes of male infertility is the loss of spermatogonial stem cells, which may occur because of chemotherapy, radiotherapy or genetic defects. In numerous animal species, the evidence suggests the pineal gland and melatonin secretion in their reproductive activities are involved. Recently, considerable attention has pointed to the usage of melatonin in the treatment of diseases. Melatonin is associated with the regulation of circadian and seasonal rhythmic functions, immune system functions, retinal physiology, spermatogenesis and inhibition of tumour growth in different species. Several studies demonstrated that melatonin acts as an anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory, anticancer and antioxidant agent. Melatonin can also protect testicles and spermatogonia against oxidative damage, chemotherapy drugs, environmental radiation, toxic substances, hyperthermia, ischemia/reperfusion, diabetes-induced testicular damage, metal-induced testicular toxicity, improve sperm quality and it affects the testosterone secretion pathway by affecting Leydig cells. Therefore, the objective of this study is to investigate the biological effects of melatonin as a natural antioxidant on testicles and their disorders.

Zearalenone Promotes LPS-Induced Oxidative Stress, Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress, and Accelerates Bovine Mammary Epithelial Cell Apoptosis

Both zearalenone (ZEA) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) can induce oxidative stress, and even apoptosis in bovine mammary epithelial cells (MAC-T), but not much attention has been given to the synergistic effect of ZEA and LPS. In this study, we treated MAC-T cells with different concentrations of LPS (1, 10, 50, and 100 μg/mL) and ZEA (5, 15, and 30 μM) to induce cell damage. Previous results show that MAC-T cell viability decreases with increasing LPS concentration. Meanwhile, 1 µg/mL LPS and ZEA were selected for combined treatment in subsequent studies. It was found that co-treatment with ZEA and LPS increases the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA), decreases mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and superoxide dismutase (SOD), and reduces glutathione (GSH). ZEA and LPS are found to activate endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress by increasing the expression of glucose-regulated protein 78 kDa (GRP78), activating transcription factor 6 (ATF6) and C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP). It increases cell apoptosis by suppressing the expression of the anti-apoptotic protein B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2), indicated by up-regulation of Bcl2-associated X protein (Bax) and Cysteinyl aspartate-specific proteinases 3 (caspase-3) expression. The above results suggest that the synergistic effect of ZEA and LPS aggravate cytotoxicity.

Melatonin protects sheep endometrial epithelial cells against lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation in vitro

Melatonin has known anti-inflammatory effects. However, how melatonin protects sheep endometrial epithelial cells from inflammation remains unknown. In this study, we investigated the melatonin synthetase AANAT and HIOMT, and melatonin membrane receptors MT1 and MT2 distribution in sheep uterus. Using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated sheep endometrial epithelial cells as an in vitro inflammation model. The results showed that melatonin attenuated the expression of inflammatory factors in a concentration-response manner. Melatonin also inhibited the LPS-stimulated phosphorylation of ERK1/2, JNK and NF-κB p65. This attenuation was partially blocked by luzindole (a nonspecific MT1 and MT2 inhibitor) or 4P-PDOT (specific MT2 inhibitor). In addition, the above inhibition of melatonin was abolished by the PI3K/AKT pathway inhibitor LY294002. It was concluded that melatonin had an inhibitory effect on LPS-induced endometrial epithelial cell inflammation in sheep, which was mediated by the activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway via melatonin receptors.

4-Phenylbutyric acid alleviated 3-acetyldeoxynivalenol-induced immune cells response by inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress in mouse spleen

3-Acetyldeoxynivalenol (3-Ac-DON), an acetylated derivative of deoxynivalenol (DON), has contaminated grains and grain-based products in general and been harmful to human and animal health. However, the damage effects and regulatory mechanisms to the host immune system have not been well explored. In the present study, our results revealed that 3-Ac-DON significantly decreased spleen index, elevated MPO activity, upregulated mRNA and protein levels of IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17A, TNF-α, M-CSF, G-CSF, CCL2, IFN-β, and IL-10 in the spleen and serum. Interestingly, 4-phenylbutyric acid (4-PBA), an inhibitor of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, largely abolished the above adverse effects. Importantly, 3-Ac-DON enhanced the mRNA abundances of ER stress-related indicators, such as BIP, IRE1A, ATF6, XBP-1, EIF2A, ATF4, and CHOP, which were abolished by 4-PBA, indicating the inhibiting effects of ER stress by 4-PBA in the spleen. Furthermore, 3-Ac-DON reshaped the populations of innate immune cells (neutrophils, macrophages, dendritic cells, natural killer cells) and adaptive immune cells (T lymphocytes, helper T cells, suppressor T cells, and B lymphocytes) in the peripheral blood and spleen lymphocytes. In conclusion, our studies demonstrated that the adverse effects of 3-Ac-DON on immune cells response could be implemented by ER stress and the ameliorative effect of 4-PBA.

Melatonin and Related Compounds: Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Actions

Melatonin, an indoleamine derived from tryptophan and produced in the pineal gland and other tissues [...].

Clinical investigation of lipopolysaccharide in the persistence of metabolic syndrome (MS) through the activation of GRP78-IRE1α-ASK1 signaling pathway

OBJECTIVE

Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) might play a pivotal role in the persistence of metabolic syndrome (MS). Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) derived from various gram-negative bacteria could result in the ERS. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the association between LPS and ERS in MS.

METHOD

We enrolled 86 patients with MS and 42 healthy people aged 35-65 years. Body weight, waist circumference, blood pressure were measured. LPS, LBP and inflammation factors, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), insulin, total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride, high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), free fatty acid (FFA) were analyzed in blood plasma of patient's cohort. Body mass index (BMI) and HOMA-IR were calculated. The mRNA and protein expression of ERS GRP78, IRE1α, ASK1 and IKKβ, JNK1 were measured in blood plasma of patient's cohort by RT-PCR and Elisa. MS was defined by the updated National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III criterion for Asian Americans.

RESULTS

BMI, waist circumference, blood pressure, FPG, insulin, HOMA-IR, TC, triglyceride, HDL-C, LDL-C, FFA and LPS, LBP, TNF-α, CRP, IL-1, IL-6, MCP-1 were significantly higher in patients with MS than healthy people (P < 0.001). The correlation analysis suggested that LPS were associated with TNF-α, IL-1, IL-6, MCP-1, LBP, FFA, HOMA-IR potently (P < 0.05). The marker gene and protein expressions of ERS (GRP78, IRE1α, ASK1, IKKβ and JNK) were significantly overexpressed in patients with MS and were positive correlation with LPS (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

LPS may play an important role in mediating chronic low-grade inflammation by activating the ERS GRP78-IRE1α-ASK1 signaling pathway, contributing to the persistence of MS.

Non-coding RNA-based regulation of inflammation

Inflammation is a multifactorial process and various biological mechanisms and pathways participate in its development. The presence of inflammation is involved in pathogenesis of different diseases such as diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases and even, cancer. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) comprise large part of transcribed genome and their critical function in physiological and pathological conditions has been confirmed. The present review focuses on miRNAs, lncRNAs and circRNAs as ncRNAs and their potential functions in inflammation regulation and resolution. Pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory factors are regulated by miRNAs via binding to 3'-UTR or indirectly via affecting other pathways such as SIRT1 and NF-κB. LncRNAs display a similar function and they can also affect miRNAs via sponging in regulating levels of cytokines. CircRNAs mainly affect miRNAs and reduce their expression in regulating cytokine levels. Notably, exosomal ncRNAs have shown capacity in inflammation resolution. In addition to pre-clinical studies, clinical trials have examined role of ncRNAs in inflammation-mediated disease pathogenesis and cytokine regulation. The therapeutic targeting of ncRNAs using drugs and nucleic acids have been analyzed to reduce inflammation in disease therapy. Therefore, ncRNAs can serve as diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic targets in inflammation-related diseases in pre-clinical and clinical backgrounds.

Melatonin relieves heat-induced spermatocyte apoptosis in mouse testes by inhibition of ATF6 and PERK signaling pathways

Normal spermatogenic processes require the scrotal temperature to be lower than that of the body as excessive heat affects spermatogenesis in the testes, reduces sperm quality and quantity, and even causes infertility. Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) is a crucial factor in many pathologies. Although several studies have linked ERS to heat stress, researchers have not yet determined which ERS signaling pathways contribute to heat-induced testicular damage. Melatonin activates antioxidant enzymes, scavenges free radicals, and protects the testes from inflammation; however, few studies have reported on the influence of melatonin on heat-induced testicular damage. Using a murine model of testicular hyperthermia, we observed that heat stress causes both ERS and apoptosis in the testes, especially in the spermatocytes. These observations were confirmed using the mouse spermatocyte cell line GC2, where the Atf6 and Perk signaling pathways were activated during heat stress. Knockout of the above genes effectively reduced spermatocyte damage caused by heat stress. Pretreatment with melatonin alleviated heat-induced apoptosis by inhibiting the Atf6 and Perk signaling pathways. This mitigation was dependent on the melatonin receptors. In vivo experiments verified that melatonin treatment relieved heat-induced testicular damage. In conclusion, our results demonstrated that ATF6 and PERK are important mediators for heat-induced apoptosis, which can be prevented by melatonin treatment. Thus, our study highlights melatonin as a potential therapeutic agent in mammals for subfertility/infertility induced by testicular hyperthermia.

Pathogenesis of Brucella epididymoorchitis-game of Brucella death

Brucellosis is a worldwide zoonotic disease caused by Brucella spp. Human infection often results from direct contact with tissues from infected animals or by consumption of undercooked meat and unpasteurised dairy products, causing serious economic losses and public health problems. The male genitourinary system is a common involved system in patients with brucellosis. Among them, unilateral orchitis and epididymitis are the most common. Although the clinical and imaging aspect of orchi-epididymitis caused by brucellosis have been widely described, the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in the damage and the immune response in testis and epididymis have not been fully elucidated. In this review, we first summarised the clinical characteristics of Brucella epididymo-orchitis and the composition of testicular and epididymal immune system. Secondly, with regard to the mechanism of Brucella epididymoorchitis, we mainly discussed the process of Brucella invading testis and epididymis in temporal and spatial order, including i) Brucella evades innate immune recognition of testicular PRRs；ii) Brucella overcomes the immune storm triggered by the invasion of testis through bacterial lipoproteins and virulence factors, and changes the secretion mode of cytokines; iii) Brucella breaks through the blood-testis barrier with the help of macrophages, and inflammatory cytokines promote the oxidative stress of Sertoli cells, damaging the integrity of BTB; iv) Brucella inhibits apoptosis of testicular phagocytes. Finally, we revealed the structure and sequence of testis invaded by Brucella at the tissue level. This review will enable us to better understand the pathogenesis of orchi-epididymitis caused by brucellosis and shed light on the development of new treatment strategies for the treatment of brucellosis and the prevention of transition to chronic form. Facing the testicle with immunity privilege, Brucella is like Bruce Lee in the movie Game of Death, winning is survival while losing is death.HIGHLIGHTSWe summarized the clinical features and pathological changes of Brucellaepididymoorchitis.Our research reveals the pathogenesis of Brucella epididymoorchitis, which mainly includes the subversion of testicular immune privilege by Brucella and a series of destructive reactions derived from it.As a basic framework and valuable resource, this study can promote the exploration of the pathogenesis of Brucella and provide reference for determining new therapeutic targets for brucellosis in the future.

Melatonin Ameliorates LPS-Induced Testicular Nitro-oxidative Stress (iNOS/TNFα) and Inflammation (NF-kB/COX-2) via Modulation of SIRT-1

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) - an endotoxin that is being extensively used in laboratory to mimic microbial infection that adversely affects male fertility. This study investigated the protective effects of melatonin on LPS-induced testicular nitro-oxidative stress, inflammation, and associated damages in the testes of male golden hamsters, Mesocricetus auratus. Hamsters were administered with melatonin and LPS for 7 days. Testes of LPS treated hamsters showed degenerative changes (appearance of vacuoles, exfoliation, and depletion of germ cells in the seminiferous tubules), adverse effects on spermatogenesis (sperm count and viability), and steroidogenesis (declined serum and testicular testosterone). Furthermore, LPS treatment decreased melatonin content, melatonin receptor (MT1), and antioxidant potential (catalase and SOD), and simultaneously increased nitro-oxidative stress (CRP, nitrate, TNFα). LPS upregulated NF-kB, COX-2, and iNOS expressions to increase testicular inflammatory load that resulted in the decrease of germ cell proliferation and survival, thus culminating into germ cell apoptosis as indicated by AO-EB staining and caspase-3 expression. Administration of melatonin with LPS showed improved testicular histoarchitecture, sperm parameters, and testosterone level. Melatonin increased testicular antioxidant status (SOD, catalase) to counteract the LPS-induced testicular ROS and thus reduced testicular nitro-oxidative stress. Furthermore, melatonin treatment upregulated testicular SIRT-1 expression to inhibit LPS-induced inflammatory proteins, i.e., NF-kB/COX-2/iNOS expression. The rescue effect of melatonin was further supported by increased germ cell survival (Bcl-2), proliferation (PCNA), and declined apoptosis (caspase-3). In conclusion, our result demonstrated that melatonin rescued testes from LPS-induced testicular nitro-oxidative stress, inflammation, and associated damages by upregulation of SIRT-1.

Characterization of Tendon-Derived Stem Cells and Rescue Tendon Injury

The natural healing ability of tendon is limited, and it cannot restore the native structure and function of tendon injuries. Tendon-derived stem cells (TDSCs) are a new type of pluripotent stem cells with multi-directional differentiation potential and are expected to become a promising cell-seed for the treatment of tendon injuries in the future. In this review, we outline the latest advances in the culture and identification of TDSCs. In addition, the influencing factors on the differentiation of TDSCs are discussed. Moreover, we aim to discuss recent studies to enhance TDSCs treatment of injured tendons. Finally, we identify the limitations of the current understanding of TDSCs biology, the main challenges of using their use, and potential therapeutic strategies to inform cell-based tendon repair.