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Zhang C, Weng Y, Wang H, Zhan S, Li C, Zheng D, Lin Q. A synergistic effect of triptolide and curcumin on rheumatoid arthritis by improving cell proliferation and inducing cell apoptosis via inhibition of the IL-17/NF-κB signaling pathway. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 142:112953. [PMID: 39226828 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 08/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, progressive, systemic autoimmune disease. While triptolide (TPL) and curcumin (CUR) are known to have multiple beneficial effects on RA, the combined effect of TPL and CUR remains unexplored. This study aimed to investigate their synergistic effect on cell proliferation and apoptosis via the IL-17/NF-κB signaling pathway. The collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) rat model was established, showing severe joint and synovial damage compared to normal rats. Treatment with TPL and CUR reduced the severity of RA in the CIA rat model and alleviated serum inflammatory cytokines, such as rheumatoid factor, IL-17, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. The elevated levels of IL-17 and NF-κB in CIA rats were also inhibited, and the resistant apoptosis was aggravated by TPL and CUR. In vitro, the improvement of cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis were observed in LPS-stimulated MH7A cells treated with TPL and CUR, associated with the inhibition of the IL-17/NF-κB signaling pathway. Taken together, a synergistic effect of TPL and CUR on RA may involve relieving symptoms, improving excessive proliferation, inducing apoptosis resistance, and inhibiting the IL-17/NF-κB signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaofeng Zhang
- Department of Hematology and Rheumatology, The Affiliated Hospital of Putian University, Fujian Province, China; School of Basic Medicine, Putian University, Fujian Province, China
| | - Yiyang Weng
- Pharmaceutical and Medical Technology College, Putian University, Fujian Province, China
| | - Haibin Wang
- Pharmaceutical and Medical Technology College, Putian University, Fujian Province, China
| | - Siting Zhan
- School of Basic Medicine, Putian University, Fujian Province, China
| | - Chaoqi Li
- Pharmaceutical and Medical Technology College, Putian University, Fujian Province, China
| | - Donghui Zheng
- Medical Image Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Putian University, Fujian Province, China
| | - Qi Lin
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Putian University, Fujian Province, China.
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Li W, Li Z, Zou Z, Liu X, Li X. Integrated single-cell and bulk RNA sequencing identifies POSTN as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for rheumatoid arthritis. Gene 2024; 928:148798. [PMID: 39067546 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2024.148798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to integrate single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and bulk RNA-seq data to identify potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). METHOD Firstly, we obtained the synovial scRNA-seq data from the Immport database and bulk RNA-seq data from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Then, we used weighted gene correlation network analysis (WGCNA) to screen for module genes most relevant to RA and intersected them with the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) obtained from scRNA-seq and bulk RNA-seq to obtain intersecting genes. Next, we constructed a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of hub genes using the STRING database and Cytoscape software and validated its expression using external validation cohorts. Finally, we performed immune cell infiltration analysis using CIBERSORT and explored the expression and drug binding activity of key gene using clinical samples and molecular docking, respectively. RESULT We identified six cellular subgroups through dimensionality reduction and clustering, and fibroblasts may be the most important cell cluster in RA based on pseudotime and cell-cell communication analyses. Subsequently, we intersected module genes with DEGs obtained from scRNA-seq and bulk RNA-seq and constructed a PPI network of hub genes (BGN, COL11A1, COL1A1, GUCY1A1, POSTN). In external validation cohorts, POSTN was highly expressed and demonstrated the highest diagnostic performance (AUC = 0.716). In subsequent analyses, we defined POSTN as a key gene and found that its expression level was positively correlated with M2 macrophages in immune cell infiltration analysis. Additionally, POSTN was upregulated in clinical samples and exhibited favorable binding activity with nine anti-rheumatoid arthritis drugs (affinity ≤ -6.0 kcal/mol). CONCLUSION Through bioinformatics analysis, clinical sample validation, and molecular docking, we found that POSTN was highly expressed in RA and stably bound to common anti-rheumatoid arthritis drugs, which will provide new insights into potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weihua Li
- Orthopedic Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China; Artificial Joints Engineering and Technology Research Center of Jiangxi Province, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Zhiqiang Li
- Orthopedic Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China; Artificial Joints Engineering and Technology Research Center of Jiangxi Province, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Zehui Zou
- Orthopedic Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China; Artificial Joints Engineering and Technology Research Center of Jiangxi Province, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Xuqiang Liu
- Orthopedic Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China; Artificial Joints Engineering and Technology Research Center of Jiangxi Province, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China.
| | - Xiaofeng Li
- Orthopedic Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China; Artificial Joints Engineering and Technology Research Center of Jiangxi Province, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China.
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Zhao L, Zhang H, Ren P, Sun X. LncRNA SLC9A3-AS1 knockdown increases the sensitivity of liver cancer cell to triptolide by regulating miR-449b-5p-mediated glycolysis. Biotechnol Genet Eng Rev 2024; 40:1389-1405. [PMID: 36946780 DOI: 10.1080/02648725.2023.2193775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
Triptolide (TP) is involved in the progression of liver cancer. However, the detailed molecular network regulated through TP is still unclear. Long non-coding RNA (LncRNA) SLC9A3 exerts roles in various pathological progresses. Nevertheless, whether SLC9A3 affects the sensitivity of liver cancer cells to TP have not been uncovered. The content of SLC9A3-AS1 and miR-449b-5p was estimated by utilizing quantitative real-time polymerase-chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Cell counting kit 8 (CCK-8) assay was introduced to assess cell viability. Additionally, cell viability as well as invasion was tested via transwell assay. The direct binding between miR-449b-5p and SLC9A3-AS1 or LDHA was confirmed through luciferase reporter gene assay. Moreover, glycolysis rate was tested by calculating the uptake of glucose in addition to the production of lactate in Huh7 cells. LncRNA SLC9A3-AS1 was up-regulated in liver cancer tissue samples and cells. Knockdown of SLC9A3-AS1 notably further inhibited viability, migration as well as invasion in Huh7 cells. MiR-449b-5p was the direct downstream miRNA of SLC9A3-AS1 and was down-regulated by SLC9A3-AS1 in Huh7 cells. In addition, miR-449b-5p was reduced in liver cancer tissues and cells. Overexpressed miR-449b-5p increased the sensitivity of Huh7 cells to TP remarkably. Moreover, miR-449b-5p negatively regulated LDHA expression in Huh7 cells. This work proved that SLC9A3-AS1 increased the sensitivity of liver cancer cells to TP by regulating glycolysis rate mediated via miR-449b-5p/LDHA axis. These findings implied that TP is likely to be a potent agent for treating patients diagnosed with liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhao
- Major of integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi, Shandong, China
| | - Houbin Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi, Shandong, China
| | - Peiyou Ren
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi, Shandong, China
| | - Xiangjun Sun
- Department of General Surgery, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi, Shandong, China
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Wang F, Liu J. Regulating the lncRNA DSCR9/RPLP2/PI3K/AKT axis: an important mechanism of Xinfeng capsules in improving rheumatoid arthritis. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1465442. [PMID: 39376558 PMCID: PMC11456487 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1465442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 09/04/2024] [Indexed: 10/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized by chronic and symmetrical polyarthritis. RA patients often experience inflammatory reaction and hypercoagulable state, which together affect the self-perception of patient (SPP). Currently, inhibiting inflammation and hypercoagulable state are common treatment methods for alleviating RA symptoms. Xinfeng Capsules (XFC) has a long history of treating RA, and can effectively improve the inflammatory response and hypercoagulable state of RA. However, the potential mechanisms have not yet been determined. Purpose and study design This study elucidated the action mechanism of XFC in RA inflammation and hypercoagulability through the lncDSCR9/RPLP2/PI3K/AKT axis. Results Clinical observations indicated that there was a strong link between XFC therapy and improvements in inflammatory and coagulation biomarkers, as well as SPP among RA patients. The subsequent network pharmacology analysis results identified the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway as a potential mediator for XFC treatment of RA. Furthermore, clinical validation and sequencing results revealed that lncRNA DSCR9 expression (a gene implicated in inflammation and coagulation) was negatively correlated with clinical markers of inflammation and coagulation, while positively correlated with SF-36 indicators. Notably, XFC treatment remarkably upregulated lncRNA DSCR9 expression and downregulated PI3K and AKT expressions, showing opposite expression trends to the untreated cases.The regulatory effect of XFC on the lncRNA DSCR9/RPLP2/PI3K/AKT axis in RA was investigated using techniques such as RNA pull-down assay, Western blot analysis, RT-PCR, and EdU assay. Moreover, the administration of the PI3K/AKT agonist RMH can counteract the effects of XFC on p-PI3K, p-AKT, inflammation, and hypercoagulability, reinforcing the role of pathway. Finally, animal studies utilizing HE staining and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) demonstrated that XFC notably decreased PI3K and AKT expressions in adjuvant-induced arthritis (AA) rats, mitigated inflammation and hypercoagulability, and enhanced the ultrastructure of synovial cells. These findings underscored the potential mechanisms of XFC in the treatment of RA. Conclusion Regulating the lncRNA DSCR9/RPLP2/PI3K/AKT axis may be an important mechanism by which XFC improved RA inflammatory response and hypercoagulable state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanfan Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, First Clinical Medical College, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Department of Rheumatism Immunity, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Jian Liu
- Department of Rheumatism Immunity, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, China
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Danieli MG, Casciaro M, Paladini A, Bartolucci M, Sordoni M, Shoenfeld Y, Gangemi S. Exposome: Epigenetics and autoimmune diseases. Autoimmun Rev 2024; 23:103584. [PMID: 39097180 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2024.103584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2024] [Revised: 07/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/27/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
Systemic autoimmune diseases are complex conditions characterized by an immune system dysregulation and an aberrant activation against self-antigens, leading to tissue and organ damage. Even though genetic predisposition plays a role, it cannot fully explain the onset of these diseases, highlighting the significant impact of non-heritable influences such as environment, hormones and infections. The exposome represents all those factors, ranging from chemical pollutants and dietary components to psychological stressors and infectious agents. Epigenetics, which studies changes in gene expression without altering the DNA sequence, is a crucial link between exposome and the development of autoimmune diseases. Key epigenetic mechanisms include DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs. These epigenetic modifications could provide a potential piece of the puzzle in understanding systemic autoimmune diseases and their connection with the exposome. In this work we have collected the most important and recent evidence in epigenetic changes linked to systemic autoimmune diseases (systemic lupus erythematosus, idiopathic inflammatory myopathies, ANCA-associated vasculitis, and rheumatoid arthritis), emphasizing the roles these changes may play in disease pathogenesis, their potential as diagnostic biomarkers and their prospective in the development of targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Giovanna Danieli
- SOS Immunologia delle Malattie Rare e dei Trapianti, AOU delle Marche & Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche e Molecolari, Università Politecnica delle Marche, via Tronto 10/A, 60126 Torrette di Ancona, Italy; Postgraduate School of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Università Politecnica delle Marche, via Tronto 10/A, 60126 Ancona, Italy.
| | - Marco Casciaro
- Operative Unit of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98125 Messina, Italy.
| | - Alberto Paladini
- PostGraduate School of Internal Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, via Tronto 10/A, 60126 Ancona, Italy
| | - Martina Bartolucci
- Postgraduate School of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Università Politecnica delle Marche, via Tronto 10/A, 60126 Ancona, Italy
| | - Martina Sordoni
- Postgraduate School of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Università Politecnica delle Marche, via Tronto 10/A, 60126 Ancona, Italy
| | - Yehuda Shoenfeld
- Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Ramat Gan 52621, Israel; Reichman University, Herzelia 46101, Israel.
| | - Sebastiano Gangemi
- Operative Unit of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98125 Messina, Italy.
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Liu X, Liu X, Wang H, Chen M, Zhang G, Ren D, Zhang N, Wei W. Quantitative proteomic analysis of circulating exosomes reveals the mechanism by which Triptolide protects against collagen-induced arthritis. Immun Inflamm Dis 2024; 12:e1322. [PMID: 38888462 PMCID: PMC11184934 DOI: 10.1002/iid3.1322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Triptolide (TP), a natural product derived from the herbal medicine Tripterygium wilfordii, exhibits potent immunosuppressive activity. However, the mechanisms underlying its effects in rheumatoid arthritis remain incompletely understood. METHODS Collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) model was induced in Sprague-Dawley rats by immunization with bovine type II collagen, and TP was administrated as treatment. The therapeutic effect of TP was evaluated based on paw swelling, histopathology, and serum levels of inflammatory factors. Exosomes isolated from rat serum were characterized by transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, and western blot analysis. Proteomic profiling of exosomes was analyzed by direct DIA quantitative proteomics analysis. Gene ontology and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes databases were employed for enrichment analysis related to molecular function, biological processes, and signaling pathways. Western blot analysis was used to analyze differentially expressed proteins. RESULTS TP treatment ameliorated arthritic phenotypes in CIA rats as evidenced by reduced arthritis score, paw swelling, pathological injury severity scores, and serum levels of inflammatory cytokines. The proteomic analysis revealed that TP treatment significantly inhibited complement and coagulation cascades, interleukin-17 signaling pathway, and cholesterol metabolism, which were reactivated in CIA rats. Importantly, lipocalin 2 (LCN2) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) levels were markedly upregulated in the CIA group but suppressed upon TP administration. Furthermore, in synovial tissues, LCN2 and MPO expression levels were also elevated in the CIA group but decreased following TP treatment. CONCLUSION Our findings demonstrate that TP alleviates CIA, possibly through modulation of exosomal LCN2 and MPO proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuchan Liu
- Department of Infectious DiseasesTianjin HospitalTianjinChina
- Department of Rheumatology and ImmunologyTianjin Medical University General HospitalTianjinChina
| | - Xu Liu
- Department of Infectious DiseasesTianjin Medical University General Hospital, Binhai HospitalTianjinChina
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and ImmunologyTianjin Medical University General HospitalTianjinChina
| | - Ming Chen
- Department of Rheumatology and ImmunologyTianjin Medical University General HospitalTianjinChina
| | - Geng Zhang
- Department of Infectious DiseasesTianjin Medical University Baodi Clinical CollegeTianjinChina
| | - Dongyun Ren
- Department of Infectious DiseasesTianjin HospitalTianjinChina
| | - Na Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and ImmunologyTianjin Medical University General HospitalTianjinChina
| | - Wei Wei
- Department of Rheumatology and ImmunologyTianjin Medical University General HospitalTianjinChina
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Bao S, Yi M, Xiang B, Chen P. Antitumor mechanisms and future clinical applications of the natural product triptolide. Cancer Cell Int 2024; 24:150. [PMID: 38678240 PMCID: PMC11055311 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-024-03336-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Triptolide (TPL) is a compound sourced from Tripterygium wilfordii Hook. F., a traditional Chinese medicinal herb recognized for its impressive anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic, immunosuppressive, and antitumor qualities. Notwithstanding its favorable attributes, the precise mechanism through which TPL influences tumor cells remains enigmatic. Its toxicity and limited water solubility significantly impede the clinical application of TPL. We offer a comprehensive overview of recent research endeavors aimed at unraveling the antitumor mechanism of TPL in this review. Additionally, we briefly discuss current strategies to effectively manage the challenges associated with TPL in future clinical applications. By compiling this information, we aim to enhance the understanding of the underlying mechanisms involved in TPL and identify potential avenues for further advancement in antitumor therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiwei Bao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Hunan Provincial Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
- FuRong Laboratory, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Mei Yi
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Bo Xiang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Hunan Provincial Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China.
- FuRong Laboratory, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China.
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
| | - Pan Chen
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Hunan Provincial Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
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Sun S, Liang L, Tian R, Huang Q, Ji Z, Li X, Lin P, Zheng S, Peng Y, Yuan Q, Pan X, Li T, Yuan Z, Huang Y. LncRNA expression profiling in exosomes derived from synovial fluid of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 130:111735. [PMID: 38412675 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.111735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify the long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) expression profiling in exosomes derived from synovial fluid of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients, and carry out bioinformatics analysis on target genes of differentially expressed lncRNAs. METHODS Exosomes were isolated from synovial fluid via ultracentrifugation. RNAs were extracted from exosomes by using HiPure Liquid RNA/miRNA kits, followed by lncRNA sequencing. Differentially expressed lncRNAs in RA were screened, and bioinformatics analysis of their target genes was carried out. qRT-PCR was used to verify the lncRNA expression levels. RESULTS Compared with osteoarthritis (OA), 347 lncRNAs were found differentially expressed in RA. Compared with gout, 805 lncRNAs were found differentially expressed in RA. Compared with both OA and gout, 85 lncRNAs were found specially expressed in RA (65 were upregulated (including ENST00000433825.1)). Functional analysis of target genes of the specially expressed lncRNAs revealed significant enrichment of "autophagy" and "mTOR signaling pathway". The qRT-PCR results indicated that ENST00000433825.1 was highly expressed in RA, compared with both OA and gout (P < 0.05), which matched the lncRNA sequencing results. Correlation analysis showed that the level of ENST00000433825.1 in RA patients was significantly and positively correlated with the level of C-reactive protein (CRP) (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The lncRNA expression profiling in exosomes derived from synovial fluid of RA was significantly different from OA and gout. ENST00000433825.1 was highly and uniquely expressed in RA and significantly and positively correlated with CRP, which might provide a diagnostic and therapeutic biomarker for RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanmiao Sun
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou 510317, Guangdong, China; The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Ling Liang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510260, Guangdong, China
| | - Rui Tian
- School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Higher Education Mega Center, 100 Outside Ring West Road, Guangzhou 510006, Guangdong, China
| | - Qidang Huang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou 510317, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhuyi Ji
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou 510317, Guangdong, China
| | - Xingjian Li
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou 510317, Guangdong, China
| | - Paifeng Lin
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou 510317, Guangdong, China
| | - Shaoling Zheng
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou 510317, Guangdong, China
| | - Yalian Peng
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou 510317, Guangdong, China
| | - Qian Yuan
- School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Higher Education Mega Center, 100 Outside Ring West Road, Guangzhou 510006, Guangdong, China
| | - Xia Pan
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou 510317, Guangdong, China.
| | - Tianwang Li
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou 510317, Guangdong, China; Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Zhaoqing Central People's Hospital, Zhaoqing 526299, Guangdong, China; The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong, China.
| | - Zhengqiang Yuan
- School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Higher Education Mega Center, 100 Outside Ring West Road, Guangzhou 510006, Guangdong, China.
| | - Yukai Huang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou 510317, Guangdong, China.
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Peng Y, Zhang M, Hu J. Non-coding RNAs involved in fibroblast-like synoviocyte functioning in arthritis rheumatoid: From pathogenesis to therapy. Cytokine 2024; 173:156418. [PMID: 37952312 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2023.156418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a polygenic autoimmune disorder with an uncertain etiology, primarily impacting the joints. Moreover, the disease may manifest beyond articular involvement, leading to extra-articular manifestations. Fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) are cells of mesenchymal origin that possess crucial physiological significance within the synovium, contributing to the synthesis of specific constituents found in the synovial fluid and articular cartilage. Consequently, there has been a growing focus on FLS as a potential therapeutic target in the context of RA. Recent investigations have revealed that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) serve as pivotal regulators of FLS function, with their dysregulated expression patterns being detected within FLS populations. NcRNAs, such as microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), assume essential functions as regulators of gene expression at both the post-transcriptional and transcriptional levels, and also serve as guiding molecules for chromatin-modifying complexes. Majority of these ncRNAs contribute to various FLS activities including metastasis, proliferation, and cytokine production. In the current work, we comprehensively review the existing literature on ncRNAs, which play pivotal roles in FLS activity and the pathogenesis of RA. Furthermore, this study provides a comprehensive summary and description of the lncRNA/circRNA-miRNA-mRNA regulatory axes in FLS activity, along with potential implications for the RA development. As well, in the final section, we illustrated that therapeutic agents including herbal medicine, and exosomes by modulating ncRNAs regulate FLS activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuwei Peng
- Rheumatology and Immunology, PingXiangPeople's Hospital, No. 8, Wugongshangzhong Avenue, Anyuan District, PiangXiang City, Jiangxi Province, 337000, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- Rheumatology and Immunology, PingXiangPeople's Hospital, No. 8, Wugongshangzhong Avenue, Anyuan District, PiangXiang City, Jiangxi Province, 337000, China
| | - Jiangkang Hu
- Rheumatology and Immunology, PingXiangPeople's Hospital, No. 8, Wugongshangzhong Avenue, Anyuan District, PiangXiang City, Jiangxi Province, 337000, China.
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10
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Wen J, Liu J, Wan L, Wang F. Long noncoding RNA/circular RNA regulates competitive endogenous RNA networks in rheumatoid arthritis: molecular mechanisms and traditional Chinese medicine therapeutic significances. Ann Med 2023; 55:973-989. [PMID: 36905646 PMCID: PMC10795602 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2023.2172605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic and autoimmune disease that is mainly featured abnormal fibroblast-like synoviocyte (FLS) proliferation and inflammatory cell infiltration. Abnormal expression or function of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs) are closely related to human diseases, including RA. There has been increasing evidence showing that in the competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks, both lncRNA and circRNA are vital in the biological functions of cells. Nevertheless, the exact mechanism of ceRNA in RA remains to be investigated. Herein, we summarized the molecular potencies of lncRNA/circRNA-mediated ceRNA networks in RA, with emphasis on the phenotypic regulation of ceRNA in the progression of RA, including regulation of proliferation, invasion, inflammation and apoptosis, as well as the role of ceRNA in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in the treatment of RA. In addition, we also discussed the future direction and potential clinical value of ceRNA in the treatment of RA, which may provide potential reference value for clinical trials of TCM therapy for the treatment of RA.Key messagesLong noncoding RNA/circular RNA can work as the competitive endogenous RNA sponge and participate in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis.Traditional Chinese medicine and its agents have shown potential roles in the prevention and treatment of rheumatoid arthritis via competitive endogenous RNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianting Wen
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Institute of Rheumatology, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Xin’an Medicine of the Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Jian Liu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Institute of Rheumatology, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Department of Internal Medicine Application Foundation Research and Development, Anhui Province—Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Lei Wan
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Institute of Rheumatology, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Department of Internal Medicine Application Foundation Research and Development, Anhui Province—Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Fanfan Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Institute of Rheumatology, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Department of Internal Medicine Application Foundation Research and Development, Anhui Province—Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, China
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11
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Chen J, Lin X, Liu K, He J, Li X, Zhang C, Deng Y, Luo L, Tao C, Wang Q. CT2-3 induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in rheumatoid arthritis fibroblast-like synoviocytes through regulating PI3K/AKT pathway. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 956:175871. [PMID: 37406849 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.175871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a kind of chronic autoimmune disease. The existing therapies encountered several challenges. Therefore, continued novel anti-RA drug discovery remains necessary for RA therapy. Recently, our group reported a novel compound named CT2-3, which could be realized as a hybrid of the natural product magnolol and phthalimide and exhibited anti-lung cancer activity. However, the effect of CT2-3 on RA is unclear. Here, we aim to explore the effect and potential mechanism of CT2-3 on the abnormal functions of RA-fibroblast-like synoviocytes (RA-FLSs). In this study, we identified the important role of the dysregulated cell cycle and apoptosis of RA-FLSs in RA progression. Interestingly, we found that CT2-3 inhibited the proliferation and DNA replication of primary RA-FLSs and immortalized RA-FLSs namely MH7A. In addition, CT2-3 downregulated the mRNA and protein expression of cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2), cyclin A2, and cyclin B1, resulting in cell cycle arrest of primary RA-FLSs and MH7A cells. Also, CT2-3 downregulated the level of B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2), and increased the level of Bcl-2 associated X (Bax), contributing to apoptosis of primary RA-FLSs and MH7A cells. Furthermore, differential analyses of RNA-sequencing, Western blot, and network pharmacological analysis confirmed that CT2-3 inhibited phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT) pathway of primary RA-FLSs and MH7A cells. In conclusion, CT2-3 induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in RA-FLSs through modulating PI3K/AKT pathway, which may serve as a potential lead compound for further novel small molecule anti-RA drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Chen
- Department of Rheumatism and Immunology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518036, China; Institute of Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Shenzhen Peking University-The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Inflammatory and Immunology Diseases, Shenzhen, 518036, China
| | - Xian Lin
- Department of Rheumatism and Immunology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518036, China; Institute of Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Shenzhen Peking University-The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Inflammatory and Immunology Diseases, Shenzhen, 518036, China
| | - Kangdi Liu
- The First Clinical College, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524023, China
| | - Juan He
- Department of Rheumatism and Immunology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518036, China; Institute of Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Shenzhen Peking University-The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Inflammatory and Immunology Diseases, Shenzhen, 518036, China
| | - Xin Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Research and Development of Natural Drugs, and School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Chuchu Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Research and Development of Natural Drugs, and School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Yongxing Deng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Research and Development of Natural Drugs, and School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Lianxiang Luo
- The Marine Biomedical Research Institute, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524023, China.
| | - Cheng Tao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Research and Development of Natural Drugs, and School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China.
| | - Qingwen Wang
- Department of Rheumatism and Immunology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518036, China; Institute of Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Shenzhen Peking University-The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Inflammatory and Immunology Diseases, Shenzhen, 518036, China.
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12
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Li G, Song Z, Ru Y, Zhang J, Luo L, Yang W, Wu H, Jin H, Bao X, Wei D, Yan Z, Qu H, Zhu Z, Xue X, Zhou G. Small-molecule nanoprodrug with high drug loading and EGFR, PI3K/AKT dual-inhibiting properties for bladder cancer treatment. EXPLORATION (BEIJING, CHINA) 2023; 3:20220141. [PMID: 37933289 PMCID: PMC10582605 DOI: 10.1002/exp.20220141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
Bladder cancer (BCa) is one of the most common malignancies worldwide. Although multiple efforts have been made, the 5-year survival rate of patients with BCa remains unchanged in recent years. Overexpression of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is found in ≈74% of BCa tissue specimens; however, current EGFR-based targeted therapies show little benefit for BCa patients, as the EGFR downstream pathways appear to be circumvented by other receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs). In this study, two natural products are identified, namely triptolide (TPL) and hesperidin (HSP), that target and inhibit the EGFR and its downstream PI3K/AKT pathway in BCa. To synergistically combine triptolide and hesperidin, a succinic acid linker was employed to conjugate them and formed an amphiphilic TPL-HSP EGFR-targeting prodrug (THE), which further self-assembled to generate nanoparticles (THE NPs). These NPs allowed the EGFR-targeted delivery of the triptolide and hesperidin, and simultaneous inhibition of the EGFR and PI3K/AKT both in vitro and in vivo. This study provides a promising EGFR-targeted delivery approach with the dual inhibition of the EGFR and PI3K/AKT, while also exhibiting a high drug loading and low toxicity. Our formulation may be a suitable option to deliver natural products for BCa treatment by EGFR-targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoyin Li
- College of Life Science and AgronomyZhoukou Normal UniversityZhoukouHenanChina
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyState Key Laboratory of Cancer BiologyThe Fourth Military Medical UniversityXi'anShaanxiChina
| | - Zewen Song
- Department of OncologyCentral South University Third Xiangya HospitalChangshaHunanChina
| | - Yi Ru
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyState Key Laboratory of Cancer BiologyThe Fourth Military Medical UniversityXi'anShaanxiChina
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of PathologyXijing HospitalState Key Laboratory of Cancer BiologyThe Fourth Military Medical UniversityXi'anShaanxiChina
| | - Lianxiang Luo
- The Marine Biomedical Research InstituteGuangdong Medical UniversityZhanjiangGuangdongChina
| | - Wei Yang
- Warshel Institute for Computational BiologySchool of Science and EngineeringThe Chinese University of Hong KongShenzhenChina
| | - Hao Wu
- School of Basic Medical SciencesXi'an Key Laboratory of Immune Related DiseasesXi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anShaanxiChina
| | - Haibao Jin
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Advanced Polymeric MaterialsSchool of Materials Science and EngineeringEast China University of Science and TechnologyShanghaiChina
| | - Xuanwen Bao
- Department of Medical OncologyThe First Affiliated HospitalCollege of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiangChina
| | - Di Wei
- Graduate SchoolDepartment of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyThe Fourth Military Medical UniversityXi'anShaanxiChina
| | - Zhao Yan
- Graduate SchoolDepartment of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyThe Fourth Military Medical UniversityXi'anShaanxiChina
| | - Haijing Qu
- School of PharmacyShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityXi'anShanghaiChina
| | - Zheng Zhu
- Department of MedicineHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Xiangdong Xue
- School of PharmacyShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityXi'anShanghaiChina
| | - Gang Zhou
- National Translational Science Center for Molecular MedicineDepartment of Cell BiologyState Key Laboratory of Cancer BiologyFourth Military Medical UniversityXi'anShaanxiChina
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Drafi F, Bauerova K, Chrastina M, Taghdisiesfejír M, Rocha J, Direito R, Figueira ME, Sepodes B, Ponist S. Rhodiola rosea L. Extract, a Known Adaptogen, Evaluated in Experimental Arthritis. Molecules 2023; 28:5053. [PMID: 37446715 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28135053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Rhodiola rosea L. extract (RSE) is mostly known for its adaptogen properties, but not for its antiarthritic activities, therefore monotherapy and combination with low-dose methotrexate (MTX) was studied. The collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) model was used to measure the functional score, and the change in hind paw volume (HPV). Both parameters had significant antiarthritic effects. Based on these preliminary results, an adjuvant arthritis (AA) model was further applied to assess another parameters. The experiment included these animal groups: healthy controls, untreated AA, AA administered with RSE (150 mg/kg b.w. daily, p.o.), AA administered by MTX (0.3 mg/kg b.w. twice a week, p.o.), and AA treated with the combination of RSE+MTX. The combination of RSE+MTX significantly reduced the HPV and increased the body weight. The combination significantly decreased HPV when compared to MTX monotherapy. The plasmatic levels of inflammatory markers (IL-6, IL-17A, MMP-9 and CRP) were significantly decreased by MTX+RSE treatment. The RSE monotherapy didn't influence any of the inflammatory parameters studied. In CIA, the RSE monotherapy significantly decreased the arthritic parameters studied. In summary, the combination of RSE and sub-therapeutic MTX was significantly effective in AA by improving inflammatory and arthritic parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frantisek Drafi
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Centre of Experimental Medicine SAS, 841 04 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Katarina Bauerova
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Centre of Experimental Medicine SAS, 841 04 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Martin Chrastina
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Centre of Experimental Medicine SAS, 841 04 Bratislava, Slovakia
- Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, Malá Hora 10701/4A, 036 01 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Mohsen Taghdisiesfejír
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Centre of Experimental Medicine SAS, 841 04 Bratislava, Slovakia
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University in Bratislava, Ilkovičova 6, 842 15 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - João Rocha
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
- Laboratory of Systems Integration Pharmacology, Clinical and Regulatory Science, Research Institute for Medicines of the University of Lisbon (iMED.ULisboa), Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Rosa Direito
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
- Laboratory of Systems Integration Pharmacology, Clinical and Regulatory Science, Research Institute for Medicines of the University of Lisbon (iMED.ULisboa), Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maria Eduardo Figueira
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
- Laboratory of Systems Integration Pharmacology, Clinical and Regulatory Science, Research Institute for Medicines of the University of Lisbon (iMED.ULisboa), Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Bruno Sepodes
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
- Laboratory of Systems Integration Pharmacology, Clinical and Regulatory Science, Research Institute for Medicines of the University of Lisbon (iMED.ULisboa), Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Silvester Ponist
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Centre of Experimental Medicine SAS, 841 04 Bratislava, Slovakia
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14
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Liu YR, Wang JQ, Li XF, Chen H, Xia Q, Li J. Identification and preliminary validation of synovial tissue-specific genes and their-mediated biological mechanisms in rheumatoid arthritis. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 117:109997. [PMID: 36940554 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.109997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease. It is well known that the formation of positive feedback between synovial hyperplasia and inflammatory infiltration is intimately associated with the occurrence and development of RA. However, the exact mechanisms still remain unknown, making the early diagnosis and therapy of RA difficult. This study was designed to identify prospective diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers, as well as their-mediated biological mechanisms in RA. METHODS Three microarray datasets (GSE36700, GSE77298 and GSE153015) and two RNA-sequencing datasets (GSE89408 and GSE112656) of synovial tissues, as well as three other microarray datasets (GSE101193, GSE134087 and GSE94519) of peripheral blood were downloaded for integrated analysis. The differently expressed genes (DEGs) were identified by "limma" package of R software. Then, weight gene co-expression analysis and gene set enrichment analysis were performed to investigate synovial tissue-specific genes and their-mediated biological mechanisms in RA. The expression of candidate genes and their diagnostic value for RA were verified by quantitative real-time PCR and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, respectively. Relevant biological mechanisms were explored through cell proliferation and colony formation assay. The suggestive anti-RA compounds were discovered by CMap analysis. RESULTS We identified a total of 266 DEGs, which were mainly enriched in cellular proliferation and migration, infection and inflammatory immune signaling pathways. Bioinformatics analysis and molecular validation revealed 5 synovial tissue-specific genes, which exhibited excellent diagnostic value for RA. The infiltration level of immune cells in RA synovial tissue was significantly higher than that in control individuals. Moreover, preliminary molecular experiments suggested that these characteristic genes may be responsible for the high proliferation potential of RA fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs). Finally, 8 small molecular compounds with anti-RA potential were obtained. CONCLUSIONS We have proposed 5 potential diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers (CDK1, TTK, HMMR, DLGAP5, and SKA3) in synovial tissues that may contribute to the pathogenesis of RA. These findings may shed light on the early diagnosis and therapy of RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Ru Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China; The Grade 3 Pharmaceutical Chemistry Laboratory of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230022, China.
| | - Jie-Quan Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Affiliated Psychological Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230000, China; Psychopharmacology Research Laboratory, Anhui Mental Health Center, Hefei 230000, China; Department of Pharmacy, Hefei Fourth People's Hospital, Hefei 230000, China
| | - Xiao-Feng Li
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Hao Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China; The Grade 3 Pharmaceutical Chemistry Laboratory of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230022, China
| | - Quan Xia
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China; The Grade 3 Pharmaceutical Chemistry Laboratory of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230022, China.
| | - Jun Li
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China.
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15
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Jiang S, Wan F, Lian H, Lu Z, Li X, Cao D, Jiang Y, Li J. Friend or foe? The dual role of triptolide in the liver, kidney, and heart. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 161:114470. [PMID: 36868013 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Triptolide, a controversial natural compound due to its significant pharmacological activities and multiorgan toxicity, has gained much attention since it was isolated from the traditional Chinese herb Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F. However, in addition to its severe toxicity, triptolide also presents powerful therapeutic potency in the same organs, such as the liver, kidney, and heart, which corresponds to the Chinese medicine theory of You Gu Wu Yun (anti-fire with fire) and deeply interested us. To determine the possible mechanisms involved in the dual role of triptolide, we reviewed related articles about the application of triptolide in both physiological and pathological conditions. Inflammation and oxidative stress are the two main ways triptolide exerts different roles, and the cross-talk between NF-κB and Nrf2 may be one of the mechanisms responsible for the dual role of triptolide and may represent the scientific connotation of You Gu Wu Yun. For the first time, we present a review of the dual role of triptolide in the same organ and propose the possible scientific connotation of the Chinese medicine theory of You Gu Wu Yun, hoping to promote the safe and efficient use of triptolide and other controversial medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyuan Jiang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Feng Wan
- Department of Anatomy, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Hui Lian
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Zhihao Lu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Xueming Li
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Dan Cao
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Yangyu Jiang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Jian Li
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102488, China.
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16
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Zhang H, Yuan Z, Wang J, Tang Q, Miao Y, Yuan Z, Huang X, Zhu Y, Nong C, Zhang L, Jiang Z, Yu Q. Triptolide leads to hepatic intolerance to exogenous lipopolysaccharide and natural-killer-cell mediated hepatocellular damage by inhibiting MHC class I molecules. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 109:154621. [PMID: 36610139 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2022.154621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tripterygium wilfordii Hook. F (TWHF) is used as a traditional Chinese medicine, called thunder god vine, based on its efficacy for treating inflammatory diseases. However, its hepatotoxicity has limited its clinical application. Triptolide (TP) is the major active and toxic component of TWHF. Previous studies reported that a toxic pretreatment dose of TP leads to hepatic intolerance to exogenous lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation, and to acute liver failure, in mice, but the immune mechanisms of TP-sensitised hepatocytes and the TP-induced excessive immune response to LPS stimulation are unknown. PURPOSE To identify both the key immune cell population and mechanism involved in TP-induced hepatic intolerance of exogenous LPS. STUDY DESIGN In vitro and in vivo experiments were conducted to investigate the inhibitory signal of natural killer (NK) cells maintained in hepatocytes, and the ability of TP to impair that signal. METHODS Flow cytometry was performed to determine NK cell activity and hepatocyte histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules expression; the severity of liver injury was determined based on blood chemistry values, and drug- or cell-mediated hepatocellular damage, by measuring lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release. In vivo H-2Kb transduction was carried out using an adeno-associated viral vector. RESULTS Interferon (IFN)-γ-mediated necroptosis occurred in C57BL/6N mice treated with 500 μg TP/kg and 0.1 mg LPS/kg to induce fulminant hepatitis. Primary hepatocytes pretreated with TP were more prone to necroptosis when exposed to recombinant murine IFN-γ. In mice administered TP and LPS, the intracellular IFN-γ levels of NK cells increased significantly. Subsequent study confirmed that NK cells were activated and resulted in potent hepatocellular toxicity. In vivo and in vitro TP administration significantly inhibited MHC class I molecules in murine hepatocytes. An in vitro analysis demonstrated the susceptibility of TP-pretreated hepatocytes to NK-cell-mediated cytotoxicity, an effect that was significantly attenuated by the induction of hepatocyte MHC-I molecules by IFN-α. In vivo induction or overexpression of hepatocyte MHC-I also protected mouse liver against TP and LPS-induced injury. CONCLUSION The TP-induced inhibition of hepatocyte MHC-I molecules expression leads to hepatic intolerance to exogenous LPS and NK-cell mediated cytotoxicity against self-hepatocytes. These findings shed light on the toxicity of traditional Chinese medicines administered for their immunomodulatory effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haoran Zhang
- New Drug Screening Center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Zihang Yuan
- New Drug Screening Center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Jie Wang
- New Drug Screening Center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Qianhui Tang
- New Drug Screening Center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Yingying Miao
- New Drug Screening Center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Ziqiao Yuan
- New Drug Screening Center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Xinliang Huang
- New Drug Screening Center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Ying Zhu
- New Drug Screening Center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Cheng Nong
- New Drug Screening Center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Luyong Zhang
- New Drug Screening Center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Center for Drug Research and Development, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
| | - Zhenzhou Jiang
- New Drug Screening Center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Key Laboratory of Drug Quality Control and Pharmacovigilance, Ministry of Education, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
| | - Qinwei Yu
- New Drug Screening Center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
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17
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Li N, Chen Z, Feng W, Gong Z, Lin C, Chen J, Chu C, Xu Q. Triptolide improves chondrocyte proliferation and secretion via down-regulation of miR-221 in synovial cell exosomes. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 107:154479. [PMID: 36194972 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2022.154479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), the most common type of inflammatory arthritis, can cause bone damage and disability. Triptolide, a prominent treatment for RA, has satisfactory anti-inflammatory effects. However, the mechanism of action of triptolide in RA remains unknown. PURPOSE This study aimed to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying triptolide-mediated improvements in RA and identify the miRNA pathway responsible for these effects. METHODS We identified various dysregulated miRNAs associated with RA by mining previously described microarray data and verified and screened these candidates using RT-qPCR. Hematoxylin-eosin staining was then applied to identify pathological changes in the affected joints, and cell counting kit-8 analysis and flow cytometry were employed to examine cell proliferation and apoptosis, respectively. Extracted exosomes were verified using transmission electron microscopy. RESULTS Our results revealed that the legs of rats with collagen-induced arthritis presented with obvious swelling and bone damage, a high degree of inflammatory cell infiltration into the synovium, and structural changes to the cartilage. Data mining identified 39 dysregulated miRNAs in these tissues, and RT-qPCR further refined these observations to highlight miR-221 as a potential RA biomarker. Subsequent evaluations revealed that fibroblast-like synovial (FLS) cells secrete Exs carrying dysregulated miR-221 in vitro. These Exs mediate miR-221 levels, inflammation, and TLR4/MyD88 signaling via their fusion with chondrocytes, leading to changes in chondrocyte growth and metabolic factor levels. Additionally, the addition of triptolide impaired miR-221 expression, cell proliferation, inflammatory factors, and the protein levels of TLR4/MyD88 in RA-FLS and promoted the apoptosis of FLS. The therapeutic effect of triptolide on miR-221 Exs was reversed by miR-221 inhibitor in both normal and RA FLS. CONCLUSION Our research shows that effective treatment with triptolide is mediated by its regulation of growth and secretory functions of chondrocytes via the inhibition of miR-221 secretion by FLS, providing a new target and natural medicinal candidate for future RA treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Li
- Formula-Pattern Research Center, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, 510632, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhixin Chen
- Chinese Medicine Department, South China Agricultural University Hospital, 510642, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Feng
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, 510405, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhaohui Gong
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, 510405, Guangzhou, China; Department of Cardiovascular, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, 510405, Guangzhou, China
| | - Changsong Lin
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, 510405, Guangzhou, China; Department of Rheumatology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, 510405, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiaxu Chen
- Formula-Pattern Research Center, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, 510632, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Congqiu Chu
- Oregon Health & Science University, 97239, Portland, OR, United States of America.
| | - Qiang Xu
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, 510405, Guangzhou, China; Department of Rheumatology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, 510405, Guangzhou, China.
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Pan J, Wang H, Chen Y. Trends and frontiers in natural products for arthritis, 2000-2021: A bibliometric analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e30996. [PMID: 36397359 PMCID: PMC9666140 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000030996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Arthritis has become one of the trouble diseases that upsets people. A growing number of studies have shown that natural products have great potential for the treatment of arthritis. However, few bibliometrics have been systematically studied in this area. This paper analyzes the literature data of natural products on the arthritis research, and the research hot spots and future research directions of the treatment of arthritis by natural products were explored. METHOD Through CiteSpace, VOSviewer software and Bibliometricx under the R language environment, the article and review literatures on the treatment of arthritis with natural drugs in the Web of Science core collection database were analyzed by bibliometric analysis. RESULTS On December 28, 2021, a total of 2102 records were retrieved, 81.69% publications were issued in 2012 to 2021, mainly in China-dominated Asian countries, with cooperation among countries. The analysis of the number of articles published by institutions shows that the number of articles published by China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences is up to 82. Lu, Aiping and Smolen, JS are the authors with the highest citation frequency and co-citation frequency. Keywords analysis showed that the research of natural drugs mainly focused on gene expression, anti-inflammatory and other mechanisms and signaling pathways. With the progress of science and technology and the integration of multi-disciplines, the research on natural drugs for arthritis will be more in-depth and specific. CONCLUSION In this study, literature metrology analysis was conducted on natural products in the treatment of arthritis, in order to grasp the background, trends and frontiers of the research, and predict possible research hotspots in the future. It is expected to provide some reference value and direction for future scholars in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junying Pan
- First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Haoyu Wang
- First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Yinghua Chen
- First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
- *Correspondence: Yinghua Chen, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China (e-mail: )
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Cheng Y, Wu X, Xia Y, Liu W, Wang P. The role of lncRNAs in regulation of DKD and diabetes-related cancer. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1035487. [PMID: 36313695 PMCID: PMC9606714 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1035487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus often results in several complications, such as diabetic kidney disease (DKD) and end-stage renal diseases (ESRDs). Cancer patients often have the dysregulated glucose metabolism. Abnormal glucose metabolism can enhance the tumor malignant progression. Recently, lncRNAs have been reported to regulate the key proteins and signaling pathways in DKD development and progression and in cancer patients with diabetes. In this review article, we elaborate the evidence to support the function of lncRNAs in development of DKD and diabetes-associated cancer. Moreover, we envisage that lncRNAs could be diagnosis and prognosis biomarkers for DKD and cancer patients with diabetes. Furthermore, we delineated that targeting lncRNAs might be an alternative approach for treating DKD and cancer with dysregulated glucose metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yawei Cheng
- Department of Disease Prevention, Hainan Province Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Haikou, China
- Hainan Clinical Research Center for Preventive Treatment of Diseases, Haikou, China
- *Correspondence: Yawei Cheng, ; Peter Wang,
| | - Xiaowen Wu
- Department of Disease Prevention, Hainan Province Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Haikou, China
| | - Yujie Xia
- Department of Food Science and Technology Centers, National University of Singapore (Suzhou) Research Institute, Suzhou, China
| | - Wenjun Liu
- Department of Research and Development, Zhejiang Zhongwei Medical Research Center, Hangzhou, China
| | - Peter Wang
- Department of Research and Development, Zhejiang Zhongwei Medical Research Center, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Yawei Cheng, ; Peter Wang,
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20
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Liu X, Wang Z, Qian H, Tao W, Zhang Y, Hu C, Mao W, Guo Q. Natural medicines of targeted rheumatoid arthritis and its action mechanism. Front Immunol 2022; 13:945129. [PMID: 35979373 PMCID: PMC9376257 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.945129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease involving joints, with clinical manifestations of joint inflammation, bone damage and cartilage destruction, joint dysfunction and deformity, and extra-articular organ damage. As an important source of new drug molecules, natural medicines have many advantages, such as a wide range of biological effects and small toxic and side effects. They have become a hot spot for the vast number of researchers to study various diseases and develop therapeutic drugs. In recent years, the research of natural medicines in the treatment of RA has made remarkable achievements. These natural medicines mainly include flavonoids, polyphenols, alkaloids, glycosides and terpenes. Among them, resveratrol, icariin, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, ginsenoside, sinomenine, paeoniflorin, triptolide and paeoniflorin are star natural medicines for the treatment of RA. Its mechanism of treating RA mainly involves these aspects: anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation, immune regulation, pro-apoptosis, inhibition of angiogenesis, inhibition of osteoclastogenesis, inhibition of fibroblast-like synovial cell proliferation, migration and invasion. This review summarizes natural medicines with potential therapeutic effects on RA and briefly discusses their mechanisms of action against RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueling Liu
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Zhiguo Wang
- Chinese Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hua Qian
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang City, China
| | - Wenhua Tao
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang City, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Chunyan Hu
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Weiwei Mao
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Qi Guo
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
- *Correspondence: Qi Guo,
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21
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Sun Y, Liu J, Wen J, Huang D, Zhou Q, Zhang X, Ding X, Chen X. Overexpression of long noncoding RNA LINC00638 inhibits inflammation and oxidative stress in rheumatoid arthritis fibroblast-like synoviocytes by regulating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. Immun Inflamm Dis 2022; 10:e663. [PMID: 35759235 PMCID: PMC9208282 DOI: 10.1002/iid3.663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abnormal expression of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) is involved in several autoimmune diseases including rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In this study, we intended to explore the expression of lncRNA LINC00638 in RA and its potential mechanism of action related to inflammation and oxidative stress. METHODS The level of LINC00638 in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) obtained from 45 RA patients and 30 normal controls was analyzed and its correlation with clinical indicators was investigated. In vitro, we used tumor necrosis factor-α to stimulate fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) of RA patients for cell based experiments. Subsequently, the overexpressed plasmid and small interfering RNA of LINC00638 were designed. Furthermore, we further analyzed the potential effects of LINC00638 on the proliferation and migration of RA-FLS and the nuclear factor erythrocyte derived 2 related factor 2 (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) pathway. RESULTS LINC00638 expression was found to be significantly decreased in PBMCs of RA patients, and it was negatively correlated with erythrocyte sedimentation rate, interleukin (IL)-17, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and disease activity scores for 28 joints (DAS28). Overexpression of LINC00638 activated the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, markedly decreased the expressions of IL-6, IL-17, IL-23, ROS, as well as malondialdehyde, increased the total antioxidant capacity, and attenuated the proliferation and migration of RA-FLS, while silencing of LINC00638 reversed these manifestations. CONCLUSIONS LINC00638 was found to be expressed at low levels in RA patients and was associated with immune inflammation, oxidative stress, and disease activity. Overexpression of LINC00638 can reduce the proliferation as well as migration of RA-FLS, and activate the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway to inhibit the inflammation and oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanqiu Sun
- Graduate SchoolAnhui University of Traditional Chinese MedicineHefeiAnhuiChina
- Department of RheumatologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Traditional Chinese MedicineHefeiAnhuiChina
| | - Jian Liu
- Department of RheumatologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Traditional Chinese MedicineHefeiAnhuiChina
- Institute of RheumatologyAnhui University of Traditional Chinese MedicineHefeiAnhuiChina
| | - Jianting Wen
- Graduate SchoolAnhui University of Traditional Chinese MedicineHefeiAnhuiChina
- Department of RheumatologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Traditional Chinese MedicineHefeiAnhuiChina
| | - Dan Huang
- Department of RheumatologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Traditional Chinese MedicineHefeiAnhuiChina
- Institute of RheumatologyAnhui University of Traditional Chinese MedicineHefeiAnhuiChina
| | - Qin Zhou
- Graduate SchoolAnhui University of Traditional Chinese MedicineHefeiAnhuiChina
- Department of RheumatologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Traditional Chinese MedicineHefeiAnhuiChina
| | - Xianheng Zhang
- Graduate SchoolAnhui University of Traditional Chinese MedicineHefeiAnhuiChina
- Department of RheumatologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Traditional Chinese MedicineHefeiAnhuiChina
| | - Xiang Ding
- Graduate SchoolAnhui University of Traditional Chinese MedicineHefeiAnhuiChina
- Department of RheumatologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Traditional Chinese MedicineHefeiAnhuiChina
| | - Xiaolu Chen
- Graduate SchoolAnhui University of Traditional Chinese MedicineHefeiAnhuiChina
- Department of RheumatologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Traditional Chinese MedicineHefeiAnhuiChina
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22
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Chen J, Lin X, He J, Liu J, He J, Tao C, Wang Q. Novel isatin-based hybrids as potential anti-rheumatoid arthritis drug candidates: Synthesis and biological evaluation. Bioorg Chem 2022; 128:106063. [PMID: 35930922 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2022.106063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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23
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王 杰, 刘 健, 文 建, 王 馨. [Triptolide inhibits inflammatory response and migration of fibroblast like synovial cells in rheumatoid arthritis through the circRNA 0003353/JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway]. NAN FANG YI KE DA XUE XUE BAO = JOURNAL OF SOUTHERN MEDICAL UNIVERSITY 2022; 42:367-374. [PMID: 35426800 PMCID: PMC9010992 DOI: 10.12122/j.issn.1673-4254.2022.03.08] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of triptolide (TPL) on inflammatory response and migration of fibroblast like synovial cells (FLS) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA-FLS) and the mechanism of circular noncoding RNA (circRNA) 0003353 for mediating this effect. METHODS We collected peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and serum samples from 50 hospitalized RA patients and 30 healthy individuals for detecting the expression of circRNA 0003353, immune and inflammatory indexes (ESR, CRP, RF, anti-CCP, IgA, IgG, IgM, C3, and C4) and DAS28 score. Cultured RA-FLS was treated with 10 ng/mL TPL and transfected with a circRNA 0003353 overexpression plasmid, and cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay and Transwell assay were used to detect the changes in the viability and migration of the cells. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to examine the cytokines IL-4, IL-6, and IL-17, and real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was performed to detect the expression of circRNA 003353; Western blotting was used to detect the expressions of p-JAK2, pSTAT3, JAK2 and STAT3 proteins in the treated cells. RESULTS The expression of circRNA 0003353 was significantly increased in PBMCs from RA patients and showed a good performance in assisting the diagnosis of RA (AUC=90.5%, P < 0.001, 95% CI: 0.83-0.98). CircRNA 0003353 expression was positively correlated with ESR, RF and DAS28 (P < 0.05). Treatment with TPL significantly decreased the expression of circRNA 0003353, suppressed the viability and migration ability, decreased the expressions of IL-6 and IL-17, and increased the expression IL-4 in cultured RA-FLS in a time-dependent manner (P < 0.01). TNF-α stimulation of RA-FLS significantly increased the ratios of p-JAK2/JAK2 and p-STAT3/STAT3, which were obviously lowered by TPL treatment (P < 0.01). TPL-treated RA-FLS overexpressing circRNA 0003353 showed significantly increased cell viability and migration ability with decreased IL-4 expression and increased IL-6 and IL-17 expressions and ratios of p-JAK2/ JAK2 and p-STAT3/STAT3 (P < 0.01). CONCLUSION The expression of circRNA 0003353 is increased in PBMCs in RA patients and in RA-FLS. TPL treatment can regulate JAK2/STAT3 signal pathway and inhibit the inflammatory response and migration of RA-FLS through circRNA 0003353.
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Affiliation(s)
- 杰 王
- />安徽中医药大学第一附属医院风湿科,安徽 合肥 230031Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230031, China
| | - 健 刘
- />安徽中医药大学第一附属医院风湿科,安徽 合肥 230031Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230031, China
| | - 建庭 文
- />安徽中医药大学第一附属医院风湿科,安徽 合肥 230031Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230031, China
| | - 馨 王
- />安徽中医药大学第一附属医院风湿科,安徽 合肥 230031Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230031, China
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24
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Huang W, Li X, Huang C, Tang Y, Zhou Q, Chen W. LncRNAs and Rheumatoid Arthritis: From Identifying Mechanisms to Clinical Investigation. Front Immunol 2022; 12:807738. [PMID: 35087527 PMCID: PMC8786719 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.807738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic chronic autoinflammatory disease, and the synovial hyperplasia, pannus formation, articular cartilage damage and bone matrix destruction caused by immune system abnormalities are the main features of RA. The use of Disease Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs (DMARDs) has achieved great advances in the therapy of RA. Yet there are still patients facing the problem of poor response to drug therapy or drug intolerance. Current therapy methods can only moderate RA progress, but cannot stop or reverse the damage it has caused. Recent studies have reported that there are a variety of long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) that have been implicated in mediating many aspects of RA. Understanding the mechanism of LncRNAs in RA is therefore critical for the development of new therapy strategies and prevention strategies. In this review, we systematically elucidate the biological roles and mechanisms of action of LncRNAs and their mechanisms of action in RA. Additionally, we also highlight the potential value of LncRNAs in the clinical diagnosis and therapy of RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wentao Huang
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory of Laser Life Science and Institute of Laser Life Science, College of Biophotonics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Laser Life Science, College of Biophotonics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Spectral Analysis and Functional Probes, College of Biophotonics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xue Li
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory of Laser Life Science and Institute of Laser Life Science, College of Biophotonics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Laser Life Science, College of Biophotonics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Spectral Analysis and Functional Probes, College of Biophotonics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chen Huang
- Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology, Guangzhou Panyu Central, Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yukuan Tang
- Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology, Guangzhou Panyu Central, Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Quan Zhou
- Department of Radiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenli Chen
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory of Laser Life Science and Institute of Laser Life Science, College of Biophotonics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Laser Life Science, College of Biophotonics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Spectral Analysis and Functional Probes, College of Biophotonics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
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25
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Wen JT, Liu J, Wan L, Xin L, Guo JC, Sun YQ, Wang X, Wang J. Triptolide inhibits cell growth and inflammatory response of fibroblast-like synoviocytes by modulating hsa-circ-0003353/microRNA-31-5p/CDK1 axis in rheumatoid arthritis. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 106:108616. [PMID: 35203042 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.108616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Triptolide (TPL) is an active component derived from Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F (TwHF) with therapeutic potential for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, the underlying mechanism of TPL is remains under-studied. Competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks may participate in the response to TPL in RA. Herein, we sought to identify a TPL response-related ceRNA axis. A circular RNA (circRNA)-microRNA (miRNA)-mRNA ceRNA axis associated with the TPL response was constructed according to our previous study. Modulatory mechanisms of the ceRNA axis were ascertained through a series of experimentations. The clinical relevance of the ceRNA axis was also determined using computational models. Here, we found that TPL had excellent clinical effect on RA and promising therapeutic efficacy in experimental animals. The ceRNA axis of hsa-circ-0003353 (circ0003353), miR-31-5p, and CDK1 was identified as a candidate biomarker for the response of RA patients to TPL. TPL inhibited the viability, proliferation, and cell cycle entry of RA-fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs), as well as the production of cytokines. Overexpression of circ0003353 abolished the inhibitory effects of TPL on RA-FLSs. Mechanistically, circ0003353 sponged miR-31-5p that inversely targeted CDK1 and manipulated the p21/Cyclin B axis. Additionally, consecutive rescue experiments indicated that the inhibitory impacts of TPL on RA-FLSs were dependent on the circ0003353/miR-31-5p/CDK1 axis. Molecular docking was also applied to predict the specific binding sites and binding capacity of TPL to related targets. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that TPL repressed the cell growth and inflammatory response of RA-FLSs by mediating the expression of the circ0003353/miR-31-5p/CDK1 axis. This novel ceRNA axis may serve as a biomarker for screening RA patients who respond to TPL treatment, which holds potential applications in the diagnosis and therapy of RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Ting Wen
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China; Institute of Rheumatology, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230012, China; Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine of the Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230038, China.
| | - Jian Liu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China; Institute of Rheumatology, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine Department of Internal Medicine Application Foundation Research and Development, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China.
| | - Lei Wan
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China; Institute of Rheumatology, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine Department of Internal Medicine Application Foundation Research and Development, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China.
| | - Ling Xin
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine Department of Internal Medicine Application Foundation Research and Development, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China.
| | - Jin-Chen Guo
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine of the Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230038, China; Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230038, China.
| | - Yan-Qiu Sun
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine Department of Internal Medicine Application Foundation Research and Development, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China.
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine Department of Internal Medicine Application Foundation Research and Development, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China.
| | - Jie Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine Department of Internal Medicine Application Foundation Research and Development, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China.
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