Baicalin induced colon cancer cells apoptosis through miR-217/DKK1-mediated inhibition of Wnt signaling pathway

Baicalin Prevents Colon Cancer by Suppressing CDKN2A Protein Expression

OBJECTIVE

To observe the therapeutic effects and underlying mechanism of baicalin against colon cancer.

METHODS

The effects of baicalin on the proliferation and growth of colon cancer cells MC38 and CT26. WT were observed and predicted potential molecular targets of baicalin for colon cancer therapy were studied by network pharmacology. Furthermore, molecular docking and drug affinity responsive target stability (DARTS) analysis were performed to confirm the interaction between potential targets and baicalin. Finally, the mechanisms predicted by in silico analyses were experimentally verified in-vitro and in-vivo.

RESULTS

Baicalin significantly inhibited proliferation, invasion, migration, and induced apoptosis in MC38 and CT26 cells (all P<0.01). Additionally, baicalin caused cell cycle arrest at the S phase, while the G0/G1 phase was detected in the tiny portion of the cells. Subsequent network pharmacology analysis identified 6 therapeutic targets associated with baicalin, which potentially affect various pathways including 39 biological processes and 99 signaling pathways. In addition, molecular docking and DARTS predicted the potential binding of baicalin with cyclin dependent kinase inhibitor 2A (CDKN2A), protein kinase B (AKT), caspase 3, and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). In vitro, the expressions of CDKN2A, MAPK, and p-AKT were suppressed by baicalin in MC38 and CT26 cells. In vivo, baicalin significantly reduced the tumor size and weight (all P<0.01) in the colon cancer mouse model via inactivating p-AKT, CDKN2A, cyclin dependent kinase 4, cyclin dependent kinase 2, interleukin-1, tumor necrosis factor α, and activating caspase 3 and mouse double minute 2 homolog signaling (all P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Baicalin suppressed the CDKN2A protein level to prevent colon cancer and could be used as a therapeutic target for colon cancer.

Prognostic significance of Dickkopf-1 in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Dickkopf-1 (DKK1) exhibits abnormal expression in various cancers and correlates with poor prognosis. This study investigates DKK1's prognostic relevance in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSC).

METHODS

We conducted a comprehensive search across literature and sequencing databases to gather eligible studies and HNSC datasets. We calculated pooled standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for clinical characteristics, as well as hazard ratios (HR) with 95% CIs for overall survival (OS) and progression-free/disease-free survival (PFS/DFS). Sensitivity analysis gauged result stability, and Egger's test assessed publication bias.

RESULTS

Pooled results indicated that HNSC patients with higher T-stage exhibited elevated DKK1 expression levels, and this elevated expression was associated with shorter OS and PFS/DFS. While sensitivity analysis identified some studies significantly affecting pooled results, most were unaffected, and no publication bias was detected.

CONCLUSION

DKK1 holds promise as a potential biomarker for predicting poor prognosis in HNSC patients, but further research is needed for confirmation.

Multiple roles of baicalin and baicalein in the regulation of colorectal cancer

The prevalence of colorectal cancer is increasing worldwide, and despite advances in treatment, colorectal cancer (CRC) remains in the top three for mortality due to several issues, including drug resistance and low efficiency. There is increasing evidence that baicalin and baicalein, novel small molecule inhibitor extracts of the Chinese herb Scutellaria baicalensis, have better anti-colorectal cancer effects and are less likely to induce drug resistance in cancer cells. The present review article explains the anti-proliferative properties of baicalin and baicalein in the context of against CRC. Additionally, it explores the underlying mechanisms by which these compounds modulate diverse signaling pathways associated with apoptosis, cell proliferation, tumor angiogenesis, invasion, metastasis, and tumor microenvironment. Moreover, this review article highlights the inhibitory effect of colorectal inflammatory-cancer transformation and the near-term therapeutic strategy of using them as adjuvant agents in chemotherapy.

A Multifunctional Liposome for Synergistic Chemotherapy with Ferroptosis Activation of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

There is an urgent need to develop efficient treatments for highly invasive triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) with a high rate of postoperative. Baicalin (BA) has shown inhibitory effects on several tumor cells and could activate ferroptosis in some tumor cells by producing reactive oxygen species (ROS). For overcoming the shortcomings of BA in clinical applications and enhancing the effect of ferroptosis in TNBC, herein, a multifunctional liposome (BA-Fe(III) coordination-polymer-loaded liposome, BA-Fe(III) Lipo) was developed for synergistic chemotherapy of TNBC with ferroptosis activation. Fe(III) released from BA-Fe(III) Lipo could be efficiently reduced to Fe(II) in the presence of high glutathione in tumor microenvironment, which in turn catalyzed the oxidation of unsaturated fats through lipid peroxidation for more ROS production. In addition, BA-Fe(III) Lipo activated tumor cell ferroptosis by down-regulating the enzymatic activity of ferritin heavy chain 1 protein and glutathione peroxidase. This study provided a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of TNBC by ingeniously combining chemotherapy with the activation of ferroptosis, which presented potential clinical applications.

Human neural stem cells repress glioma cell progression in a paracrine manner by downregulating the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway

Neural stem cells (NSCs) play crucial roles in neurological disorders and tissue injury repair through exerting paracrine effects. However, the effects of NSC-derived factors on glioma progression remain unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of human NSC-conditioned medium (NSC-CM) on the behaviour of glioma cells using an in vitro co-culture system. Cell counting kit-8 and 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine assays revealed that NSC-CM inhibited glioma cell proliferation and growth in a fetal bovine serum (FBS)-independent manner. In addition, our wound-healing assay demonstrated that NSC-CM repressed glioma cell migration, while results from transwell and 3D spheroid invasion assays indicated that NSC-CM also reduced the invasion capacity of glioma cells. Flow cytometry showed that NSC-CM prevented cell cycle progression from the G1 to S phase and promoted apoptosis. Western blotting was used to show that the expression of Wnt/β-catenin pathway-related proteins, including β-catenin, c-Myc, cyclin D1, CD44 and Met, was remarkably decreased in NSC-CM-treated glioma cells. Furthermore, the addition of a Wnt/β-catenin pathway activator, CHIR99021, significantly induced the expression of β-catenin and Met and increased the proliferative and invasive capabilities of control medium-treated glioma cells but not those of NSC-CM-treated glioma cells. The use of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) revealed the secretion of some antitumour factors in human and rat NSCs, including interferon-α and dickkopf-1. Our data suggest that NSC-CM partially inhibits glioma cell progression by downregulating Wnt/β-catenin signalling. This study may serve as a basis for developing future antiglioma therapies based on NSC derivatives.

Natural Products Treat Colorectal Cancer by Regulating miRNA

Diseases are evolving as living standards continue to improve. Cancer is the main cause of death and a major public health problem that seriously threatens human life. Colorectal cancer is one of the top ten most common malignant tumors in China, ranking second after gastric cancer among gastrointestinal malignant tumors, and its incidence rate is increasing dramatically each year due to changes in the dietary habits and lifestyle of the world's population. Although conventional therapies, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, have profoundly impacted the treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC), drug resistance and toxicity remain substantial challenges. Natural products, such as dietary therapeutic agents, are considered the safest alternative for treating CRC. In addition, there is substantial evidence that natural products can induce apoptosis, inhibit cell cycle arrest, and reduce the invasion and migration of colon cancer cells by targeting and regulating the expression and function of miRNAs. Here, we summarize the recent research findings on the miRNA-regulation-based antitumor mechanisms of various active ingredients in natural products, highlighting how natural products target miRNA regulation in colon cancer prevention and treatment. The application of natural drug delivery systems and predictive disease biomarkers in cancer prevention and treatment is also discussed. Such approaches will contribute to the discovery of new regulatory mechanisms associated with disease pathways and provide a new theoretical basis for developing novel colon cancer drugs and compounds and identifying new therapeutic targets.

In Vitro and In Silico Study on the Impact of Chlorogenic Acid in Colorectal Cancer Cells: Proliferation, Apoptosis, and Interaction with β-Catenin and LRP6

Colorectal cancer mortality rate and highly altered proteins from the Wnt/β-catenin pathway increase the scientific community's interest in finding alternatives for prevention and treatment. This study aims to determine the biological effect of chlorogenic acid (CGA) on two colorectal cancer cell lines, HT-29 and SW480, and its interactions with β-catenin and LRP6 to elucidate a possible modulatory mechanism on the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. These effects were determined by propidium iodide and DiOC6 for mitochondrial membrane permeability, MitoTracker Red for mitochondrial ROS production, DNA content for cell distribution on cell cycle phases, and molecular docking for protein-ligand interactions and binding affinity. Here, it was found that CGA at 2000 µM significantly affects cell viability and causes DNA fragmentation in SW480 cells rather than in HT-29 cells, but in both cell lines, it induces ROS production. Additionally, CGA has similar affinity and interactions for LRP6 as niclosamide but has a higher affinity for both β-catenin sites than C2 and iCRT14. These results suggest a possible modulatory role of CGA over the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in colorectal cancer.

Baicalin Blocks Colon Cancer Cell Cycle and Inhibits Cell Proliferation through miR-139-3p Upregulation by Targeting CDK16

Baicalin was reported to facilitate the apoptosis of colon cells and inhibit tumor growth in vivo. This study aimed to explore the specific mechanism and function of baicalin on colon cells. Relative mRNA levels were tested via qPCR. Cell proliferation, viability, and cell cycle phases were evaluated using MTT, colony formation, and flow cytometry assays, respectively. The interaction between miR-139-3p and cyclin-dependent kinase 16 (CDK16) was measured via a dual-luciferase reporter assay. Immunohistochemistry was used to count the positivity cells in tumor tissues collected from treated xenografted tumor mice. The results showed that baicalin increased miR-139-3p expression while also decreasing CDK16 levels, blocking the cell cycle, and inhibiting cell proliferation in colon cancer cells. miR-139-3p silencing or CDK16 overexpression abolished the inhibitory effects of baicalin on colon cancer proliferation. miR-139-3p directly targeted and interacted with CDK16 at the cellular level. The protective functions of miR-139-3p knockdown on tumor cells were abrogated by silencing CDK16. The combination of baicalin treatment and CDK16 knockdown further inhibited tumor growth of xenografted tumor mice compared with the groups injected with only sh-CDK16 or baicalin in vivo. In conclusion, baicalin inhibited colon cancer growth by modulating the miR-139-3p/CDK16 axis.

Icariin-Mediated miR-875-5p Inhibits Autophagy and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition by Regulation of MDM4 in Cervical Cancer

MicroRNAs, one type of non-coding RNA, and Icariin have attracted tremendous attention concerning various diseases, especially cancers. Also, the function of Icariin on malignant behaviors by targeting miR-875-5p/MDM4 axis in cervical cancer remains unknown. MiR-875-5p analogs combined with MDM4 or Icariin were used to explore autophagy and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in cancer cells. Xenograft mice were highlighted to elucidate the influences of Icariin and miR-875-5p in vivo. As a result, miR-875-5p was cut down in cervical cancer cells, which promoted malignant phenotype, autophagy, and limited apoptosis in cervical cancer cells. Contrarily,miR-875-5p overexpression had a contrary performance in cervical cancer cells. miR-875-5p was validated as a sponge of MDM4. Enhanced expression of MDM4 weakened the performance of miR-875-5p mimic on autophagy and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Moreover, Icariin reversed the stimulative action of the inhibitor on autophagy and xenograft tumor growth. Generally, These findings imply that Icariin could be identified as a curative avenue for cervical cancer via miR-875-5p/MDM4 axis.

Role of baicalin as a potential therapeutic agent in hepatobiliary and gastrointestinal disorders: A review

Baicalin is a natural bioactive compound derived from Scutellaria baicalensis, which is extensively used in traditional Chinese medicine. A literature survey demonstrated the broad spectrum of health benefits of baicalin such as antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, cardio-protective, hepatoprotective, renal protective, and neuroprotective properties. Baicalin is hydrolyzed to its metabolite baicalein by the action of gut microbiota, which is further reconverted to baicalin via phase 2 metabolism in the liver. Many studies have suggested that baicalin exhibits therapeutic potential against several types of hepatic disorders including hepatic fibrosis, xenobiotic-induced liver injury, fatty liver disease, viral hepatitis, cholestasis, ulcerative colitis, hepatocellular and colorectal cancer. During in vitro and in vivo examinations, it has been observed that baicalin showed a protective role against liver and gut-associated abnormalities by modifying several signaling pathways such as nuclear factor-kappa B, transforming growth factor beta 1/SMAD3, sirtuin 1, p38/mitogen-activated protein kinase/Janus kinase, and calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase kinaseβ/adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase/acetyl-coenzyme A carboxylase pathways. Furthermore, baicalin also regulates the expression of fibrotic genes such as smooth muscle actin, connective tissue growth factor, β-catenin, and inflammatory cytokines such as interferon gamma, interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and IL-1β, and attenuates the production of apoptotic proteins such as caspase-3, caspase-9 and B-cell lymphoma 2. However, due to its low solubility and poor bioavailability, widespread therapeutic applications of baicalin still remain a challenge. This review summarized the hepatic and gastrointestinal protective attributes of baicalin with an emphasis on the molecular mechanisms that regulate the interaction of baicalin with the gut microbiota.

Baicalin Attenuates Continuous Activation of β-Catenin Induced by Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and Depression Complicated by Infertility in Male Rats

Background

Baicalin (BA) is a potential candidate drug to inhibit depressive behavior. However, the mechanism of BA's role on depression complicated with male infertility (DCMI) is still unclear. This study aimed to investigate the role of BA in alleviating inflammatory factor-induced DCMI by regulating β-catenin.

Methods

Firstly, we performed sucrose preference test (SPT), open field test (OFT), tail suspension test (TST), and forced swim test (FST) in the chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) + lipopolysaccharide (LPS) model rats to study the effect of BA on depressive behavior. The levels of neuropeptide Y (NPY), testosterone (T), and IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, IL-10, and IL-4 in the peripheral blood plasma of normal people, patients with depression, and patients with DCMI were measured. Then, the levels of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, IL-10, IL-4, β-catenin in rat testis and peripheral blood and ANXA2, APP, SEMG1, and SEMG2 in seminal plasma proteins were examined. Moreover, the level of β-catenin in the testicular tissue was detected. LPS was used to treat Sertoli cells, and the level of β-catenin was detected. Finally, we evaluated the reproductive phenotype and sperm motility of rats.

Results

BA (especially 100 mg/kg) could notably ameliorate depression-like behavior induced by CUMS + LPS. The levels of IL-4, IL-10, T, and NPY in depression patients, DCMI patients, and CUMS + LPS model rats elevated, while the levels of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α were reduced. However, BA alleviated the changes in these factors. Moreover, BA alleviated male rat depression induced by CUMS + LPS. LPS upregulated β-catenin (NP) but could not adjust β-catenin (TP) level in rat Sertoli cells. BA relieved the symptoms of DCMI by regulating β-catenin. Furthermore, BA ameliorated the reproductive ability of depressed rats.

Conclusion

BA modulated β-catenin in the relief of inflammatory factor-induced DCMI.

Drug Discovery of DKK1 Inhibitors

Dickkopf-1 (DKK1) is a well-characterized Wnt inhibitor and component of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, whose dysregulation is associated with multiple abnormal pathologies including osteoporosis, Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, and various cancers. The Wnt signaling pathway has fundamental roles in cell fate determination, cell proliferation, and survival; thus, its mis-regulation can lead to disease. Although DKK1 is involved in other signaling pathways, including the β-catenin-independent Wnt pathway and the DKK1/CKAP4 pathway, the inhibition of DKK1 to propagate Wnt/β-catenin signals has been validated as an effective way to treat related diseases. In fact, strategies for developing DKK1 inhibitors have produced encouraging clinical results in different pathological models, and many publications provide detailed information about these inhibitors, which include small molecules, antibodies, and nucleic acids, and may function at the protein or mRNA level. However, no systematic review has yet provided an overview of the various aspects of their development and prospects. Therefore, we review the DKK1 inhibitors currently available or under study and provide an outlook on future studies involving DKK1 and drug discovery.

Metabolomics analysis of three Artemisia species in the Tibet autonomous region of China

BACKGROUND

The Artemisia species are widely distributed around the world, and have found important usage in traditional medicinal practice. This study was designed to investigate the metabolites of Tibetan Artemisia species and understand the metabolic pathways.

METHODS

The metabolites from three Artemisia species in Tibet, were analyzed using LC-MS/MS. The differential metabolites were classified and analyzed by principal component analysis (PCA), partial least squares analysis and hierarchical clustering. KEGG Pathway enrichment analysis was used to identify the key metabolic pathways involved in the differential metabolites of three Artemisia species.

RESULT

The metabolites of three Artemisia species were analyzed. Under the positive ion mode in LC-MS/MS, 262 distinct metabolites were differentially detected from Artemisia sieversiana and Artemisia annua, 312 differential metabolites were detected from Artemisia wellbyi and Artemisia sieversiana, 306 differential metabolites were screened from Artemisia wellbyi and Artemisia annua. With the negative ion mode, 106 differential metabolites were identified from Artemisia sieversiana and Artemisia annua, 131 differential metabolites were identified from Artemisia wellbyi and Artemisia sieversiana,133 differential metabolites were differentially detected from Artemisia wellbyi and Artemisia annua. The selected differential metabolites were mainly organic acids and their derivatives, ketones, phenols, alcohols and coumarins. Among these natural compounds, artemisinin, has the highest relative content in Artemisia annua.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first reported attempt to comparatively determine the types of the metabolites of the three widely distributed Artemisia species in Tibet. The information should help medicinal research and facilitate comprehensive development and utilization of Artemisia species in Tibet.

Therapeutic effect of baicalin on inflammatory bowel disease: A review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Baicalin (BI) is an important biologically active flavonoid isolated from the root of Scutellaria radix (Huang Qin). Traditionally Scutellaria radix was the common drug of dysentery. As the main flavonoid compound, there is a distribution tendency of baicalin to the intestinal tract and it has a protective effect on the gastrointestinal tract.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

This review aims to compile up-to-date and comprehensive information on the efficacy of baicalin in vitro and in vivo, about treating inflammatory bowel disease. Relevant information on the therapeutic potential of baicalin against inflammatory bowel disease was collected from the Web of Science, Pubmed and so on. Additionally, a few books and magazines were also consulted to get the important information.

RESULTS

The mechanisms of baicalin against inflammatory bowel disease mainly include anti-inflammation, antioxidant, immune regulation, maintenance of intestinal barrier, maintenance of intestinal flora balance. Also, BI can relieve parts of extraintestinal manifestations (EIMs), and prevent colorectal cancer.

CONCLUSION

Baicalin determined the promising therapeutic prospects as potential supplementary medicines for the treatment of IBD.

MicroRNA-217: a therapeutic and diagnostic tumor marker

INTRODUCTION

Cancer as one of the most common causes of death has always been one of the major health challenges globally. Since, the identification of tumors in the early tumor stages can significantly reduce mortality rates; it is required to introduce novel early detection tumor markers. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have pivotal roles in regulation of cell proliferation, migration, apoptosis, and tumor progression. Moreover, due to the higher stability of miRNAs than mRNAs in body fluids, they can be considered as non-invasive diagnostic or prognostic markers in cancer patients.

AREAS COVERED

In the present review we have summarized the role of miR-217 during tumor progressions. The miR-217 functions were categorized based on its target molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways.

EXPERT OPINION

It was observed that miR-217 mainly exerts its function by regulation of the transcription factors during tumor progressions. The WNT, MAPK, and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways were also important molecular targets of miR-217 in different cancers. The present review clarifies the molecular biology of miR-217 and paves the way of introducing miR-217 as a non-invasive diagnostic marker and therapeutic target in cancer therapy.

Perspectives on miRNAs Targeting DKK1 for Developing Hair Regeneration Therapy

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) remains an unsolved problem for the well-being of humankind, although multiple important involvements in hair growth have been discovered. Up until now, there is no ideal therapy in clinical practice in terms of efficacy and safety. Ultimately, there is a strong need for developing a feasible remedy for preventing and treating AGA. The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is critical in hair restoration. Thus, AGA treatment via modulating this pathway is rational, although challenging. Dickkopf-related protein 1 (DKK1) is distinctly identified as an inhibitor of canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Thus, in order to stimulate the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, inhibition of DKK1 is greatly demanding. Studying DKK1-targeting microRNAs (miRNAs) involved in the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway may lay the groundwork for the promotion of hair growth. Bearing in mind that DKK1 inhibition in the balding scalp of AGA certainly makes sense, this review sheds light on the perspectives of miRNA-mediated hair growth for treating AGA via regulating DKK1 and, eventually, modulating Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Consequently, certain miRNAs regulating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway via DKK1 inhibition might represent attractive candidates for further studies focusing on promoting hair growth and AGA therapy.

Identification of C3 and FN1 as potential biomarkers associated with progression and prognosis for clear cell renal cell carcinoma

Background

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is one of the most lethal urological malignancies, but the pathogenesis and prognosis of ccRCC remain obscure, which need to be better understand.

Methods

Differentially expressed genes were identified and function enrichment analyses were performed using three publicly available ccRCC gene expression profiles downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. The protein-protein interaction and the competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks were visualized by Cytoscape. Multivariate Cox analysis was used to predict an optimal risk mode, and the survival analysis was performed with the Kaplan-Meier curve and log-rank test. Protein expression data were downloaded from Clinical Proteomic Tumor Analysis Consortium database and Human Protein Atlas database, and the clinical information as well as the corresponding lncRNA and miRNA expression data were obtained via The Cancer Genome Atlas database. The co-expressed genes and potential function of candidate genes were explored using data exacted from the Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia database.

Results

Of the 1044 differentially expressed genes shared across the three datasets, 461 were upregulated, and 583 were downregulated, which significantly enriched in multiple immunoregulatory-related biological process and tumor-associated pathways, such as HIF-1, PI3K-AKT, P53 and Rap1 signaling pathways. In the most significant module, 36 hub genes were identified and were predominantly enriched in inflammatory response and immune and biotic stimulus pathways. Survival analysis and validation of the hub genes at the mRNA and protein expression levels suggested that these genes, particularly complement component 3 (C3) and fibronectin 1 (FN1), were primarily responsible for ccRCC tumorigenesis and progression. Increased expression of C3 or FN1 was also associated with advanced clinical stage, high pathological grade, and poor survival in patients with ccRCC. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis qualified the expression levels of the two genes as candidate biomarkers for predicting poor survival. FN1 was potentially regulated by miR-429, miR-216b and miR-217, and constructed a bridge to C3 and C3AR1 in the ceRNA network, indicating a critical position of FN1.

Conclusions

The biomarkers C3 and FN1 could provide theoretical support for the development of a novel prognostic tool to advance ccRCC diagnosis and targeted therapy.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-021-08818-0.

Inhibition of angiotensin II type 1 receptor by candesartan reduces tumor growth and ameliorates fibrosis in colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is an important cause of cancer-related mortality. Aberrant activation of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is reported to be associated with poor clinical outcomes in patients with CRC. This study was designed to explore the anti-tumor effects of the angiotensin receptor blocker Candesartan either alone or in combination with 5-FU in in vitro and in vivo models of CRC. The cytotoxic effects of Candesartan were assessed using the MTT assay in two colorectal cancer cell lines (CT-26 and SW-480). To investigate the potential regulatory role of Candesartan on tumor growth, apoptosis, and migration, the expression levels of Cyclin D1, Survivin, MMP3, MMP9, and E-cadherin mRNAs were evaluated. The oxidant/antioxidant balance was also examined by determining the levels of MDA, thiols, SOD, and CAT. We used a xenograft model of colon cancer to investigate the effects of Candesartan alone, or in combination with 5-FU, on tumor growth following histological staining (Hematoxylin & Eosin and Masson trichrome staining) and biochemical studies as well as gene expression analyses by RT-PCR and western blotting. Candesartan suppressed tumor cell proliferation and migration by modulating Cyclin D1, MMP3/9, and E-cadherin. Treatment with Candesartan either alone, or in combination with 5-FU decreased tumor size in the mouse model, and also increased the level of oxidative markers MDA and reduced CAT, SOD, and thiols. Histological evaluation showed that Candesartan increased tumor necrosis, reduced tumor density and attenuated collagen deposition reducing tumor fibrosis in tumor xenograft. Candesartan, an inhibitor of the RAS, when used in combination with 5-FU reduced tumor growth by inhibiting fibrosis and inducing ROS production, supporting further clinical studies on this therapeutic approach for treatment of CRC.

A four-component combination derived from Huang-Qin Decoction significantly enhances anticancer activity of irinotecan

Huang-Qin Decoction (HQD) is a classic prescription for diarrhea in Chinese medicine treatment. Recent studies have demonstrated that HQD and its modified formulation PHY906 could ameliorate irinotecan (CPT-11) induced gastrointestinal (GI) toxicity and enhance its anticancer therapeutic efficacy. Nevertheless, which constituents in HQD are effective is still unclear so far. The study aims to screen out the key bioactive components combination from HQD that could enhance the anticancer effect of CPT-11. First, the potential bioactive constituents were obtained through system pharmacology strategy. Then the bioactivity of each constituent was investigated synthetically from the aspects of NCM460 cell migration, TNF-α release of THP-1-derived macrophage and MTT assay in HCT116 cell. The contribution of each constituent in HQD was evaluated using the bioactive index E_i, which taken the content and bioactivity into comprehensive consideration. And then, the most contributing constituents were selected out to form a key-component combination. At last, the bioefficacy of the key-component combination was validated in vitro and in vivo. As a result, a key-component combination (HB4) consisting of four compounds baicalin, baicalein, glycyrrhizic acid and wogonin was screened out. In vitro assessment indicated that HB4 could enhance the effect of CPT-11 on inhibiting cell proliferation and inducing apoptosis in HCT116. Furthermore, the in vivo study confirmed that HB4 and HQD have similar pharmacological activity and could both enhance the antitumor effect of CPT-11 in HCT116 xenograft model. Meanwhile, HB4 could also reduce the CPT-11 induced GI toxicity.

The Use of Chinese Skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis) and Its Extracts for Sustainable Animal Production

Simple Summary

With the increasing pressure to address the problems of bacterial resistance and drug residues, medicinal herbs are gradually taking a more important role in animal production. Scutellaria baicalensis is a common and widely used Chinese medicinal herb. The main bioactive compounds in the plant are baicalein and baicalin. These compounds have many biological functions including anti-oxidation, antipyretic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antiallergic, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, and antitumor effects. S. baicalensis and its extracts can effectively promote animal growth, improve the production performance of dairy cows, reduce the stress and inflammatory response, and have effective therapeutic effects on diseases caused by bacteria, viruses, and other pathogenic microorganisms. This paper summarizes the biological function of S. baicalensis and its application in sustainable animal production to provide a reference for future application of S. baicalensis and other medicinal herbs in animal production and disease treatment.

Abstract

Drugs have been widely adopted in animal production. However, drug residues and bacterial resistance are a worldwide issue, and thus the most important organizations (FAO, USDA, EU, and EFSA) have limited or banned the use of some drugs and the use of antibiotics as growth promoters. Natural products such as medicinal herbs are unlikely to cause bacterial resistance and have no chemical residues. With these advantages, medicinal herbs have long been used to treat animal diseases and improve animal performance. In recent years, there has been an increasing interest in the study of medicinal herbs. S. baicalensis is a herb with a high medicinal value. The main active compounds are baicalin and baicalein. They may act as antipyretic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antiallergenic, antimicrobial, and antitumor agents. They also possess characteristics of being safe, purely natural, and not prone to drug resistance. S. baicalensis and its extracts can effectively promote the production performance of livestock and treat many animal diseases, such as mastitis. In this review, we summarize the active compounds, biological functions, and applications of S. baicalensis in the production of livestock and provide a guideline for the application of natural medicines in the production and treatment of diseases.

Anti-Tumor Mechanisms Associated With Regulation of Non-Coding RNA by Active Ingredients of Chinese Medicine: A Review

Cancer has become the second leading cause of death worldwide; however, its complex pathogenesis remains largely unclear. Previous research has shown that cancer development and progression are closely associated with various non-coding RNAs, including long non-coding RNAs and microRNAs, which regulate gene expression. Target gene abnormalities are regulated and engaged in the complex mechanism underlying tumor formation, thereby controlling apoptosis, invasion, and migration of tumor cells and providing potentially effective targets for the treatment of malignant tumors. Chemotherapy is a commonly used therapeutic strategy for cancer; however, its effectiveness is limited by general toxicity and tumor cell drug resistance. Therefore, increasing attention has been paid to developing new cancer treatment modalities using traditional Chinese medicines, which exert regulatory effects on multiple components, targets, and pathways. Several active ingredients in Chinese medicine, including ginsenoside, baicalin, and matrine have been found to regulate ncRNA expression levels, thus, exerting anti-tumor effects. This review summarizes the scientific progress made regarding the anti-tumor mechanisms elicited by various active ingredients of Chinese medicine in regulating non-coding RNAs, to provide a theoretical foundation for treating tumors using traditional Chinese medicine.

Baicalin and the liver-gut system: Pharmacological bases explaining its therapeutic effects

With the development of high-throughput screening and bioinformatics technology, natural products with a range of pharmacological targets in multiple diseases have become important sources of new drug discovery. These compounds are derived from various plants, including the dried root of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, which is often used as a traditional Chinese herb named Huangqin, a popular medication used for thousands of years in China. Many studies have shown that baicalin, an extract from Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, exerts various protective effects on liver and gut diseases. Baicalin plays a therapeutic role mainly by mediating downstream apoptosis and immune response pathways induced by upstream oxidative stress and inflammation. During oxidative stress regulation, PI3K/Akt/NRF2, Keap-1, NF-κB and HO-1 are key factors associated with the healing effects of baicalin on NAFLD/NASH, ulcerative colitis and cholestasis. In the inflammatory response, IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, MIP-2 and MIP-1α are involved in the alleviation of NAFLD/NASH, cholestasis and liver fibrosis by baicalin, as are TGF-β1/Smads, STAT3 and NF-κB. Regarding the apoptosis pathway, Bax, Bcl-2, Caspase-3 and Caspase-9 are key factors related to the suppression of hepatocellular carcinoma and attenuation of liver injury and colorectal cancer. In addition to immune regulation, PD-1/PDL-1 and TLR4-NF-κB are correlated with the alleviation of hepatocellular carcinoma, ulcerative colitis and colorectal cancer by baicalin. Moreover, baicalin regulates intestinal flora by promoting the production of SCFAs. Furthermore, BA is involved in the interactions of the liver-gut axis by regulating TGR5, FXR, bile acids and the microbiota. In general, a comprehensive analysis of this natural compound was conducted to determine the mechanism by which it regulates bile acid metabolism, the intestinal flora and related signaling pathways, providing new insights into the pharmacological effects of baicalin. The mechanism linking the liver and gut systems needs to be elucidated to draw attention to its great clinical importance.

Baicalin Protects Against Acute Pancreatitis Involving JNK Signaling Pathway via Regulating miR-15a

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a kind of reversible inflammatory process of the exocrine pancreas. During the process, systemic inflammatory syndromes are involved, which relates closely to inflammatory mediators. Baicalin is a type of flavone compound extracted from Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi and exhibits anti-inflammation effect in several cancers. In this study, baicalin displayed a suppressing role on IL-1[Formula: see text], TNF[Formula: see text] and IL-6 in both cell and mice models. Necrosis was decreased in the baicalin treatment group and got a markedly lower pathological score. In this study, miR-15a is the core intermediate in baicalin regulation, which increased through baicalin treatment and protected pancreas cells and tissues, inhibiting the JNK signaling pathway by targeting MAP2K4. The long non-coding RNA MALAT1 is also a direct target of miR-15a and forms a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network with MAP2K4, which can be regulated by baicalin. In addition, upstream genes, including CDC42 and MAP3K1, were also regulated by baicalin, of which CDC42 was confirmed to form the second ceRNA network with MALAT1 and miR-15a. In conclusion, baicalin exhibits therapeutic activity towards AP by pumping up miR-15a level and inhibiting CDC42/MAP3K1, which affects AP as a brake by targeting MAP2K4 and inhibiting the JNK signaling pathway.

Baicalin mediated regulation of key signaling pathways in cancer

Baicalin has been widely investigated against different types of malignancies both at the cellular and molecular levels over the past few years. Due to its remarkable anti-proliferative potential in numerous cancer cell lines, it has created immense interest as a potential chemotherapeutic modality compared to other flavonoids. Thus, this review focuses on the recent accomplishments of baicalin and its limitations in cancer prevention and treatment. Further, combination studies and nanoformulations using baicalin to treat cancer along with the metabolism, bioavailability, toxicity, and pharmacokinetics have been discussed. The present review explains biological source, and anti-proliferative potential of baicalin against cancers including breast, colon, hepatic, leukemia, lung, and skin, as well as the relevant mechanism of action to modulate diverse signaling pathways including apoptosis, cell cycle, invasion, and migration, angiogenesis, and autophagy. The anticancer mechanism of baicalin in orthotropic and xenograft mice models have been deliberated. The combination studies of baicalin in novel therapies as chemotherapeutic adjuvants have also been summarized. The low bioavailability, fast metabolism, and poor solubility, and other significant factors that limit the clinical use of baicalin have been examined as a challenge. The improvement in the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of baicalin with newer approaches and the gaps are highlighted, which could establish baicalin as an effective and safe compound for cancer treatment as well as help to translate its potential from bench to bedside.

Participation of MicroRNAs in the Treatment of Cancer with Phytochemicals

Cancer is a global health concern and one of the main causes of disease-related death. Even with considerable progress in investigations on cancer therapy, effective anti-cancer agents and regimens have thus far been insufficient. There has been compelling evidence that natural phytochemicals and their derivatives have potent anti-cancer activities. Plant-based anti-cancer agents, such as etoposide, irinotecan, paclitaxel, and vincristine, are currently being applied in medical treatments for patients with cancer. Further, the efficacy of plenty of phytochemicals has been evaluated to discover a promising candidate for cancer therapy. For developing more effective cancer therapy, it is required to apprehend the molecular mechanism deployed by natural compounds. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been realized to play a pivotal role in regulating cellular signaling pathways, affecting the efficacy of therapeutic agents in cancer. This review presents a feature of phytochemicals with anti-cancer activity, focusing mainly on the relationship between phytochemicals and miRNAs, with insights into the role of miRNAs as the mediators and the regulators of anti-cancer effects of phytochemicals.

Nature-derived compounds modulating Wnt/ -catenin pathway: a preventive and therapeutic opportunity in neoplastic diseases

The Wnt/β-catenin signaling is a conserved pathway that has a crucial role in embryonic and adult life. Dysregulation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway has been associated with diseases including cancer, and components of the signaling have been proposed as innovative therapeutic targets, mainly for cancer therapy. The attention of the worldwide researchers paid to this issue is increasing, also in view of the therapeutic potential of these agents in diseases, such as Parkinson's disease (PD), for which no cure is existing today. Much evidence indicates that abnormal Wnt/β-catenin signaling is involved in tumor immunology and the targeting of Wnt/β-catenin pathway has been also proposed as an attractive strategy to potentiate cancer immunotherapy. During the last decade, several products, including naturally occurring dietary agents as well as a wide variety of products from plant sources, including curcumin, quercetin, berberin, and ginsenosides, have been identified as potent modulators of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling and have gained interest as promising candidates for the development of chemopreventive or therapeutic drugs for cancer. In this review we make an overview of the nature-derived compounds reported to have antitumor activity by modulating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling, also focusing on extraction methods, chemical features, and bio-activity assays used for the screening of these compounds.

Paeonol exerts anti‑tumor activity against colorectal cancer cells by inducing G0/G1 phase arrest and cell apoptosis via inhibiting the Wnt/β‑catenin signaling pathway

Paeonol is a simple phenolic compound isolated from herbal root bark, which has been reported to possess numerous biological and pharmacological characteristics, including a desirable anti‑tumor effect. To date, the effect of paeonol against colorectal cancer (CRC) cells is yet to be fully elucidated. Therefore, the present study aimed to identify the underlying mechanism via which paeonol exerts its anti‑tumor activity on HCT116 cells. After incubation with various concentrations of paeonol (7.8125, 15.625, 31.25, 62.5, 125, 250 and 500 µg/ml), the inhibitory effect of paeonol on cell viability was assessed using a Cell Counting Kit‑8 assay. Cell apoptosis and cell cycle distribution were measured using flow cytometry. Moreover, caspase activity was measured using a colorimetric caspase assay. Luciferase assay was also used to determine the β‑catenin‑mediated transcriptional activity of T‑cell specific transcription factor/lymphoid‑enhancer binding factor (TCF/LEF), and western blotting analysis was performed to measure the related expression of proteins. The results indicated that paeonol exhibited a notable effect against HCT116 cells by inducing G0/G1‑phase arrest, as demonstrated by downregulation of the cell cycle regulators cyclin‑dependent kinase 4 and cyclin D1 and upregulation of p21Cip1 in a dose‑dependent manner. Furthermore, paeonol dose‑dependently induced cell apoptosis, accompanied by an increase in the Bax/Bcl‑2 ratio, release of cytochrome c and further activation of caspases. Paeonol also dose‑dependently blocked the activation of the Wnt/β‑catenin signaling pathway by suppressing the expression of β‑catenin, resulting in a decrease in β‑catenin‑mediated activity of TCF/LEF and downregulation of downstream target genes, including cyclin D1, survivin and c‑Myc. Therefore, the present results suggested that paeonol exerted its anti‑tumor effects on CRC cells, including the inhibition of cell proliferation, induction of cell cycle arrest and initiation of apoptosis, at least partly by suppressing the Wnt/β‑catenin pathway, which may offer a promising therapeutic strategy for CRC.

MicroRNAs and Apoptosis in Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third leading cause of cancer death in the world, and its incidence is rising in developing countries. Treatment with 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is known to improve survival in CRC patients. Most anti-cancer therapies trigger apoptosis induction to eliminate malignant cells. However, de-regulated apoptotic signaling allows cancer cells to escape this signaling, leading to therapeutic resistance. Treatment resistance is a major challenge in the development of effective therapies. The microRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in CRC treatment resistance and CRC progression and apoptosis. This review discusses the role of miRNAs in contributing to the promotion or inhibition of apoptosis in CRC and the role of miRNAs in modulating treatment resistance in CRC cells.

Baicalin Protects Human OA Chondrocytes Against IL-1β-Induced Apoptosis and ECM Degradation by Activating Autophagy via MiR-766-3p/AIFM1 Axis

Background

Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most prevalent and degenerative diseases with complicated pathology including articular cartilage degradation, subchondral sclerosis and synovitis. Chondrocytes play a crucial role in maintaining cartilage integrity.

Methods

Primary chondrocytes were treated with 10 ng/mL IL-1β alone, or pre-treated with 20 μM baicalin for 5 h followed by co-treatment with 20 μM baicalin and 10 ng/mL IL-1β. CCK-8 assay was used to assess cell viability, and cell apoptosis was analyzed by both PI/FITC-Annexin V staining and quantitating apoptosis-related Bcl-2, Bax and cleaved-caspase-3 expression at both protein and mRNA level by Western blotting and qRT-PCR, respectively. Chondrocytes were transfected with miRNA-766-3p mimic and autophagy flux was examined by LC3, Beclin and p62 Western blotting and by Cyto-ID assay to quantify autophagic vacuoles.

Results

Baicalin treatment decreased the apoptosis rate and the expressions of pro-apoptotic proteins induced by IL-1β, up-regulated anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 expression, and inhibited the degradation of ECM. Baicalin increased autophagy through up-regulating the autophagy markers Beclin-1 expression and LC3 Ⅱ/LC3 Ⅰ ratio and promoting autophagic flux. Contrarily, autophagy inhibition partially alleviated the beneficial effects of baicalin on ECM synthesis and anti-apoptosis in the chondrocytes treated with L-1β. Furthermore, the differential expressional profiles of miR-766-3p and apoptosis-inducing factor mitochondria-associated 1 (AIFM1) were determined in IL-1β and IL-1β + baicalin-treated chondrocytes, and we confirmed AIFM1 was a target of miR-766-3p. MiR-766-3p overexpression suppressed apoptosis and facilitated autophagy and ECM synthesis in the chondrocytes through decreasing AIFM1. Contrarily, silencing of miR-766-3p inhibited chondrocyte autophagy and promoted apoptosis, and this effect could be reversed by AIFM1 silence.

Conclusion

Baicalin protects human OA chondrocytes against IL-1β-induced apoptosis and the degradation of ECM through activating autophagy via miR-766-3p/AIFM1 axis and serves as a potential therapeutic candidate for OA treatment.

Baicalin serves a protective role in diabetic nephropathy through preventing high glucose-induced podocyte apoptosis

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is one of the late complications of diabetes, which seriously affects the lives of patients. Baicalin (BA) is a flavone glycoside that has been identified to improve renal function in patients with DN. The present study aimed to investigate the roles and mechanisms of BA in DN. For that purpose, podocytes were cultured for 48 h under conditions of high glucose (HG; 30 mM D-glucose) or normal glucose (NG; 5 mM D-glucose). Then, the cells were treated with different concentrations of BA (6.25, 12.5 and 25 µM) for 24 h. Cell viability and apoptosis were determined using an MTT assay and flow cytometry, respectively. Protein and mRNA expression levels were analyzed using western blotting and reverse transcription-quantitative PCR, respectively. BA treatment was identified to promote the viability of podocytes and suppress cell apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner. Compared with the results in the NG group, HG stimulation significantly decreased the viability of podocytes and increased the apoptotic rate, whereas BA treatment following HG stimulation increased the viability of podocytes and decreased the apoptotic rate. Moreover, the effect of BA was revealed to be associated with the sirtuin 1/NF-κB signaling pathway in DN. In conclusion, the results of the present study suggested that BA treatment may significantly decrease HG-induced podocyte apoptosis, which indicated that BA might be a promising agent for DN treatment.

Baicalin, a Potent Inhibitor of NF-κB Signaling Pathway, Enhances Chemosensitivity of Breast Cancer Cells to Docetaxel and Inhibits Tumor Growth and Metastasis Both In Vitro and In Vivo

Objective

The aim of this study is to investigate the anti-cancer activity and sensibilization of baicalin (BA) against breast cancer (BC) cells.

Methods

The anti-proliferation of BA in BC cell lines was evaluated by MTT and colony formation assays. Apoptotic induction of BA was measured by flow cytometry. Wound-healing and transwell assays were exploited to assess migrated and invasive inhibition of BA. Western-blot and immunofluorescence were used to study mechanisms of anti-migration and sensibilization of BA. Anti-tumor and anti-metastasis effects of BA were evaluated in subcutaneous and pulmonary metastasis mouse model of BC cells.

Results

BA significantly suppressed proliferation and induced apoptosis of BC cells in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. Additionally, BA induced cell apoptosis via the mitochondria-mediated pathway, as evidenced by cellular induction of reactive oxygen species and upregulated expression of the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. The overall expression and nuclear translocation of NF-κB signaling pathway in BC cells were dramatically inhibited by treatment with BA. BA significantly suppressed abilities of migration and invasion in BC cells. Notably, BA sensitized BC cells to docetaxel (DXL) by suppressing the expression of survivin/Bcl-2. BA also retarded tumor growth and triggered apoptosis of tumor cells in a tumor mouse model of 4T1 cells. Furthermore, pulmonary metastasis of BC cells was distinctly suppressed by BA in a tumor mouse model of 4T1 cells.

Conclusion

BA effectively triggered apoptosis, inhibited metastasis, and enhanced chemosensitivity of BC, implying that BA might serve as a promising agent for the treatment of BC.

Prognostic role of dickkopf-1 in patients with cancer

As an antagonist for the WNT signal passway, dickkopf-1(DKK1) have a great important role in the occurence and development of various type cancer. The present paper performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the predictive significance of DKK1 in cancer.To assess the relationship between the expression of DKK1 and prognostic role in human cancers, a total of 16 articals were screened from the multiple online databases (Pubmed, EMBASE, CNKI, Web of Science and Google Scholar) in our study. By using the STATA soft,pooled hazard ratio and 95% confidence intervals of overall survival (OS), progression-free survival, disease-free survival and time to recurrence were used to evaluate the strength of this relationship.The meta-analysis showed that higher expression of DKK1 was significantly associated with shorter OS in cancer patients. In stratified analyzes, the higher expression of DKK1 could reduced the OS in patients with breast cancer,digestive system cancer and urogenital system cancer, but not patients with the lung cancer. It also showed that higher expression of DKK1 was significantly associated with shorter progression-free survival, disease-free survival and time to recurrence in cancer patients.The present study indicate that higher expression of DKK1 predict an unfavorable clinical outcome in patients with breast cancer, digestive system cancer and urogenital system cancer.

MicroRNAs Associated With Colon Cancer: New Potential Prognostic Markers and Targets for Therapy

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a kind of non-coding RNA (ncRNA) that regulate the expression of target genes and play a role in the occurrence and development of cancers. Colon cancer (COAD) is the second most common cause of cancer-related mortality. However, the prognostic value of miRNAs in COAD is still confusing. In this study, we obtain miRNAs and messenger RNAs (mRNAs) expression profiles of COAD from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. After preliminary data screening and preprocessing, we acquire the expression data of 894 miRNAs and 17,019 mRNAs. Then, compared with the normal samples, 39 upregulated miRNAs and 54 downregulated miRNAs are identified by differential expression analysis. Furthermore, we obtain 1,487 upregulated mRNAs and 2,847 downregulated mRNAs. We confirm nine key miRNAs related to the survival rate of COAD patients. Moreover, by using bioinformatics methods, we get 461 common genes from both the target genes of these nine key miRNAs and differentially expressed mRNAs. Through analyzing the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of these 461 common genes and survival analysis, we confirm five hub genes as promising biomarkers for COAD prognosis. It is worth mentioning that no previous reports have found that PGR and KCNB1 are related to COAD. We expect these key miRNAs and hub genes will provide a new way for the study of COAD.

MicroRNA-217-5p ameliorates endothelial cell apoptosis induced by ox-LDL by targeting CLIC4

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Endothelial cell apoptosis plays an essential role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. MicroRNAs and chloride intracellular channels (CLICs) have been verified to participate in the endothelial cell apoptosis process, however, the underlying molecular mechanisms are still unclear. The main aim of this study was to investigate the biological effects of microRNA-217-5p (miR-217-5p) and CLIC4 on endothelial cell apoptosis in atherosclerosis.

METHODS AND RESULTS

An atherosclerotic mouse model (n = 18) was constructed by feeding apolipo protein E knockout ApoE^(-/-) mice with high-fat diet for 12 weeks. An atherosclerotic cell model was established by treating human aortic endothelial cells with oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL; 50 μg/mL) for 24 h. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and immunofluorescent staining confirmed the downregulation of miR-217-5p and upregulation of CLIC4 in atherosclerotic endothelial cells. Combined with western blot, flow cytometry assay and Hoechst staining, we demonstrated that miR-217-5p upregulation or CLIC4 knockdown regulated the apoptosis-related genes, ameliorated mitochondrial membrane permeability and therefore inhibited the apoptosis of aortic endothelial cells induced by ox-LDL. We further confirmed that miR-217-5p inhibited apoptosis of endothelial cells through targeting CLIC4 using luciferase report assay and rescue experiments.

CONCLUSION

We revealed for the first time that miR-217-5p inhibited apoptosis of endothelial cells in atherosclerosis and identified CLIC4 as a novel target of miR-217-5p. Our work provides a potential therapeutic approach for the treatment of atherosclerosis.