Fusaric acid (FA) protects heart failure induced by isoproterenol (ISP) in mice through fibrosis prevention via TGF-β1/SMADs and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways

MicroRNA-322-5p targeting Smurf2 regulates the TGF-β/Smad pathway to protect cardiac function and inhibit myocardial infarction

Acute coronary artery blockage leads to acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Cardiomyocytes are terminally differentiated cells that rarely divide. Treatments preventing cardiomyocyte loss during AMI have a high therapeutic benefit. Accumulating evidence shows that microRNAs (miRNAs) may play an essential role in cardiovascular diseases. This study aims to explore the biological function and underlying regulatory molecular mechanism of miR-322-5p on myocardial infarction (MI). This study's miR-322-5p is downregulated in MI-injured hearts according to integrative bioinformatics and experimental analyses. In the MI rat model, miR-322-5p overexpression partially eliminated MI-induced changes in myocardial enzymes and oxidative stress markers, improved MI-caused impairment on cardiac functions, inhibited myocardial apoptosis, attenuated MI-caused alterations in TGF-β, p-Smad2, p-Smad4, and Smad7 protein levels. In oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD)-injured H9c2 cells, miR-322-5p overexpression partially rescued OGD-inhibited cell viability and attenuated OGD-caused alterations in the TGF-β/Smad signaling. miR-322-5p directly targeted Smurf2 and inhibited Smurf2 expression. In OGD-injured H9c2 cells, Smurf2 knockdown exerted similar effects to miR-322-5p overexpression upon cell viability and TGF-β/Smad signaling; moreover, Smurf2 knockdown partially attenuated miR-322-5p inhibition effects on OGD-injured H9c2 cells. In conclusion, miR-322-5p is downregulated in MI rat heart and OGD-stimulated rat cardiomyocytes; the miR-322-5p/Smurf2 axis improves OGD-inhibited cardiomyocyte cell viability and MI-induced cardiac injuries and dysfunction through the TGF-β/Smad signaling.

Effects of Long-Term Administration of Bovine Bone Gelatin Peptides on Myocardial Hypertrophy in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats

The research purpose was to investigate the effects and the underlying molecular mechanisms of bovine bone gelatin peptides (BGP) on myocardial hypertrophy in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). BGP relieved myocardial hypertrophy and fibrosis in SHR rats in a dose-dependent manner by reducing the left ventricular mass index, myocardial cell diameter, myocardial fibrosis area, and levels of myocardial hypertrophy markers (atrial natriuretic and brain natriuretic peptide). Label-free quantitative proteomics analysis showed that long-term administration of BGP changed the left ventricle proteomes of SHR. The 37 differentially expressed proteins in the high-dose BGP group participated in multiple signaling pathways associated with cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis indicating that BGP could play a cardioprotective effect on SHR rats by targeting multiple signaling pathways. Further validation experiments showed that a high dose of BGP inhibited the expression of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (Pi3k), phosphorylated protein kinase B (p-Akt), and transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) in the myocardial tissue of SHR rats. Together, BGP could be an effective candidate for functional nutritional supplements to inhibit myocardial hypertrophy and fibrosis by negatively regulating the TGF-β1 and Pi3k/Akt signaling pathways.

Lagopsis supina ameliorates myocardial ischemia injury by regulating angiogenesis, thrombosis, inflammation, and energy metabolism through VEGF, ROS and HMGB1 signaling pathways in rats

BACKGROUND

Lagopsis supina (Steph. ex. Willd.) Ikonn.-Gal. is an important traditional Chinese medicine used to treat various ailments. However, its impact on myocardial ischemia (MI) injury remains unknown.

PURPOSE

This research aimed to reveal the therapeutic effect, potential mechanism, and metabolomics of L. supina against MI injury in rats.

METHODS

The therapeutic effects of the ethanolic extract of L. supina (LS) and its four fractions (LSA∼D) on a left anterior descending (LAD) artery occlusion-induced MI model rat were explored. The pharmacodynamics including myocardial infraction area, myocardial tissue pathology and apoptosis, and serum biochemical parameters (CK, CK-MB, CTn-T, SOD, ET-1, NO, eNOS, VEGF, TXB2, 6-keto-PGF1α, TNF-α, IL-6, and CRP) were evaluated. The 24 related protein expressions were detected using western blotting assay. Simultaneously, the qualitative and quantitative analyses of microporous adsorption resin with 30% (LSC) and 60% (LSD) aqueous ethanol fractions were performed using UHPLC-MS and HPLC. Moreover, the serum metabolomics analysis of rats was profiled using UHPLC-MS.

RESULTS

LS exerted remarkable alleviating effect on MI in rats. Importantly, LSC and LSD, two effective fractions of LS, significantly reduced myocardial infraction area, alleviated myocardial tissue pathology and apoptosis, regulated serum biochemical parameters. Furthermore, LSC and LSD markedly up-regulated the levels of VEGF-A, VEGFR-2, PKC, Bcl-2, Nrf2, HO-1, and thrombin, as well as prominently down-regulated the protein expression of Notch 1, p-PI3K, p-PI3K/PI3K, p-Akt, p-Akt/Akt, Bax, cleaved-caspase-3, cleaved-caspase-3/caspase-3, vWF, p-Erk, p-Erk/Erk, HMGB1, p-p38, p-p38/p38, p-p65, and p-p65/p65. A total of 26 candidate biomarkers were significantly regulated by LSC and LSD and they are mainly involved in amino acid metabolism, glycerophospholipid metabolism, and sphingolipid metabolism. Finally, phenylethanols and flavonoids may be major bio-constituents of LSC and LSD against MI.

CONCLUSIONS

This work, for the first time, demonstrated that L. supina had a significant therapeutic effect on MI in rats. Additionally, LSC and LSD, two bio-fractions from L. supina, exerted their potential to ameliorate MI injury by promoting angiogenesis, inhibiting thrombosis, blocking inflammation, and facilitating energy metabolism through promotion of VEGF pathway, as well as suppression of ROS and HMGB1 pathways in rats. These findings suggest that LSC and LSD hold promise as potential therapeutic agents for MI injury in clinical application.

Cylindrin from Imperata cylindrica inhibits M2 macrophage formation and attenuates renal fibrosis by downregulating the LXR-α/PI3K/AKT pathway

Imperata cylindrica, a medicinal plant used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, has been used to treat chronic kidney disease. Extracts of I. cylindrica display anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and anti-fibrotic properties. However, the active components of the extracts and their protective mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. In this study, we explored the ability of cylindrin, the main active compound extracted from I. cylindrica, to protect against renal fibrosis and to investigate the potential mechanisms involved. At high doses, cylindrin exerted protective effects against folic acid-induced kidney fibrosis in mice. Bioinformatic analysis predicted the LXR-α/PI3K/AKT pathway as a target of regulation by cylindrin. This was supported by our in vitro and in vivo results showing that cylindrin significantly downregulated the expression of LXR-α and phosphorylated PI3K/AKT in M2 macrophages and mouse renal tissues. Furthermore, high-dose cylindrin inhibited M2 polarization of IL-4-stimulated macrophages in vitro. Our results suggest that cylindrin alleviates renal fibrosis by attenuating M2 macrophage polarization through inhibition of the PI3K/AKT pathway via downregulation of LXR-α.

Jatrorrhizine reduces myocardial infarction-induced apoptosis and fibrosis through inhibiting p53 and TGF-β1/Smad2/3 pathways in mice

PURPOSE

To explore the mechanism of jatrorrhizine on apoptosis and fibrosis induced by myocardial infarction (MI) in an animal model.

METHODS

The left anterior descending branch of coronary artery was surgically ligated to duplicate the mouse model of MI. The sham and infarcted mice were treated with normal saline once a day, while mice in experimental groups received low-dose (LD) and high-dose (HD) jatrorrhizine once a day respectively. Two weeks later, cardiac function was detected by echocardiography, and histopathological examination was performed using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Masson staining. The expressions of p53, TGF-β1, Smad/2/3, Bax, Bcl-2, collagen I and collagen III were quantified using qRT-PCR and western blot assays.

RESULTS

Jatrorrhizine significantly improved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and left ventricle end-systolic (LVES) in mice. Histopathological, administration of jatrorrhizine weakened infiltration of inflammatory cells and cardiac fibrosis in myocardium of mice caused by MI. Additionally, jatrorrhizine suppressed cardiomyocyte apoptosis exhibited as its capability to reverse changes of Bax and Bcl-2 levels in myocardium caused by MI. Jatrorrhizine statistically significantly downregulated expression of collagen I and collagen III, as well as TGF-β1, Smad2/3 and p53.

CONCLUSIONS

Jatrorrhizine reduce cardiomyocyte apoptosis and fibrosis through inhibiting p53/Bax/Bcl-2 and TGF-β1/Smad2/3 signaling pathways.

Dapagliflozin Protection against Myocardial Ischemia by Modulating Sodium-glucose Transporter 2 Inhibitor, Silent Information Regulator 1, and Fatty Acid Synthase Expressions

BACKGROUND: The emerging role of sodium-glucose transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors drugs as potential therapeutic agents in myocardial ischemic (MI) injury treatment has raised the concern for possible mechanisms of action. AIM: The current experimental study aimed to investigate the possible protective effects of dapagliflozin (DAPA) a SGLT2i, on isoproterenol (ISO)-induced MI in rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty Wistar rats were divided randomly and equally into three groups. Group 1 (control group): Received 1.0 mL of normal saline through an orogastric tube for 14 days. Group 2 (ISO group): Received 1.0 mL of normal saline orally through an orogastric tube for 14 days. In the last 2 days (days 13 and 14), ISO (100 mg/kg) was freshly dissolved in normal saline and injected subcutaneously once daily. Group 3 (ISO + DAPA-treated group): Received DAPA 1.0 mg/kg/day orally for 14 days. In the last 2 days (days 13 and 14), ISO (100 mg/kg) was introduced like that described in Group 2. RESULTS: DAPA protects MI development by reversal of blood pressure changes, electrocardiographic alterations, stabilization of cardiac enzymes, inflammation restoration, oxidative stress, and lipid profile. SGLT2 was overexpressed in the ISO-induced MI, which declined in the ISO + DAPA group. Moreover, DAPA induced silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1)/fatty acid synthase (FASN) overexpression in ISO-induced MI. DAPA could have a potential protective role against acute MI. CONCLUSION: DAPA protects against acute MI by modulating SIRT1 and FASN expression in cardiac muscles, suppressing oxidative stress, and downregulating inflammatory mediators.

Effect of injection of different doses of isoproterenol on the hearts of mice

Background

Heart failure (HF) is one of the diseases that seriously threaten human health today and its mechanisms are very complex. Our study aims to confirm the optimal dose ISO-induced chronic heart failure mice model for better study of HF-related mechanisms and treatments in the future.

Methods

C57BL/6 mice were used to establish mice model of chronic heart failure. We injected isoproterenol subcutaneously in a dose gradient of 250 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg, 150 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg. Echocardiography and ELISA were performed to figure out the occurrence of HF. We also supplemented the echocardiographic changes in mice over 30 days.

Results

Except group S and group E, echocardiographic abnormalities were found in other groups, suggesting a decrease in cardiac function. Except group S, myofibrolysis were found in the hearts of mice in other groups. Brain natriuretic peptide was significantly increased in groups B and D, and C-reactive protein was significantly increased in each group.

Conclusion

Our research finally found that the HFrEF mice model created by injection at a dose of 100 mg/kg for 7 days was the most suitable and a relatively stable chronic heart failure model could be obtained by placing it for 21 days.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12872-022-02852-x.

CDC-like kinase 4 deficiency contributes to pathological cardiac hypertrophy by modulating NEXN phosphorylation

Kinase-catalyzed phosphorylation plays a crucial role in pathological cardiac hypertrophy. Here, we show that CDC-like kinase 4 (CLK4) is a critical regulator of cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and heart failure. Knockdown of Clk4 leads to pathological cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, while overexpression of Clk4 confers resistance to phenylephrine-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. Cardiac-specific Clk4-knockout mice manifest pathological myocardial hypertrophy with progressive left ventricular systolic dysfunction and heart dilation. Further investigation identifies nexilin (NEXN) as the direct substrate of CLK4, and overexpression of a phosphorylation-mimic mutant of NEXN is sufficient to reverse the hypertrophic growth of cardiomyocytes induced by Clk4 knockdown. Importantly, restoring phosphorylation of NEXN ameliorates myocardial hypertrophy in mice with cardiac-specific Clk4 deletion. We conclude that CLK4 regulates cardiac function through phosphorylation of NEXN, and its deficiency may lead to pathological cardiac hypertrophy. CLK4 is a potential intervention target for the prevention and treatment of heart failure.

Phosphorylation catalyzed by kinases is a key event in signaling pathways involved in cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. Here the authors show that the kinase CLK4 ameliorates cardiac hypertrophy by phosphorylating NEXN.

Effect of Secreted Frizzled-Related Protein 5 in Mice with Heart Failure

Although some progress has been made in its treatment, heart failure is still one of the most important health problems that endanger public health. This study aims to explore the myocardial protective effect of secreted frizzled-related protein 5 (SFRP5) on mice with heart failure. The mouse model of heart failure was established by using the isoproterenol (ISO) hydrochloride gradient modeling method. The treatment group was injected with 0.02 mg/kg/24 h SFRP5 recombinant protein intraperitoneally 30 minutes after the injection of isoproterenol, and the ISO + phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) group was injected with the same amount of PBS. After intraperitoneal injection of SFRP5 recombinant protein in mice with heart failure, the inflammatory response was reduced, and the left ventricular systolic and diastolic function of heart failure mice and the pathological structure of the myocardial tissue were improved. Compared with the ISO group, the expression level of SFRP5 protein in the ISO + SFRP5 group was increased significantly, the expression levels of Wnt5a and JNK protein were decreased markedly, and the enzyme activities of SOD and GSH-Px in the serum were observably increased, but they were lower than those parameters in the normal group. The SFRP5 recombinant protein has a protective effect on isoproterenol-induced heart failure in mice. The mechanism of action may be related to inhibiting the Wnt5A/JNK signaling pathway and reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. SFRP5 may be one of the therapeutic targets of heart failure.

Activation of the TGF-β1/Smads/α-SMA pathway is related to histological and functional changes in children with neurogenic bladder

This research is to investigate the expression of the TGF-β1/Smads/α-SMA pathway and its effect on bladder histology and function in children with neurogenic bladder (NB). The bladder specimens from 10 children with NB and 8 children with vesicoureteral junction obstruction were collected into the NB and control groups. The expression of TGF-β1, Smad2, Smad3, Smad4, Smad6, α-SMA, fibronectin, collagen I and collagen III in bladder tissues was detected. In addition, the histological characteristics of the bladder were evaluated. A preoperative urodynamic study was performed on all children with NB. We analysed the correlations among the expression of the marker protein a-SMA in myofibroblasts, effector cells of the pathway, and bladder function parameters. Compared with those in the control group, the expression of TGF-β1, Smad2, Smad3, Smad4, α-SMA, fibronectin, collagen I and collagen III was significantly increased in the NB group, while the expression of Smad6 was decreased (p < 0.01). HE and Masson staining in the NB group showed increased collagen levels and hypertrophy of smooth muscle cells. Children with NB had a low bladder volume ratio (BVR), low compliance (△C) and high maximum bladder pressure, low maximum flow rate, large postvoid residual volume, low bladder contraction index and low bladder voiding efficiency. The expression of α-SMA was negatively correlated with the BVR (r =  − 0.7066, P = 0.0223) and △C (r =  − 0.6516, P = 0.0412). We conclude that the TGF-β1/Smads/α-SMA pathway is activated in the bladder tissue of children with NB and may be involved in the processes causing histological and functional changes.

Chinese herbal decoction astragalus and angelica exerts its therapeutic effect on renal interstitial fibrosis through the inhibition of MAPK, PI3K-Akt and TNF signaling pathways

Astragalus and Angelica decoction (A&A) has been clinically used as a classical traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula in China for many years for the treatment of kidney diseases, especially renal interstitial fibrosis (RIF). However, the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of A&A on RIF remains poorly understood. In the present study, systematic network pharmacology and effective experimental verification were utilized for the first time to elucidate the pharmacological efficacy and potential mechanism. The outcomes indicated that 22 active components and 87 target genes of A&A were identified and cross-referenced with RIF-associated genes, contributing to confirmation of 74 target genes of A&A for RIF. Pathway and functional enrichment analyses revealed that A&A had substantial effects on MAPK, PI3K-Akt and TNF signaling pathways. In addition, seven core targets with relatively higher betweenness and degree were identified in the constructed Chinese medicine material-chemical component-target-signal pathway network. Moreover, we verified the potential therapeutic effect of A&A in vivo (using a mouse model of RIF), confirming that A&A could effectively protect the kidney by regulating these target genes. The therapeutic effect of A&A on RIF could be attributed to its role in regulating the cell cycle, limiting the apoptosis, and inhibiting the inflammation.

Forsythiaside B inhibits myocardial fibrosis via down regulating TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway

Forsythiaside B is the major ingredient of Callicarpa kwangtungensis Chun, and has been proven to protect myocardium from ischemia-reperfusion injury to achieve myocardial protection. However, the effect of forsythiaside B on adverse myocardial fibrosis remains unclear. In the present study, the myocardial fibrosis animal models were established induced by isoproterenol (ISO) to investigate whether forsythiaside B exhibited antifibrotic actions. Forsythiaside B was found to significantly improve the cardiac ejection fraction and fractional shortening rate of myocardial fibrosis mice compared with the normal saline group. In addition, forsythiaside B could lower the level of TGF-β1, the expression of α-SMA and collagen III. Forsythiaside B down-regulated the expression of Smad4 and the phosphorylation level of Smad3, which indicates that forsythiaside B could suppress myocardial fibrosis by inhibiting the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway. These results demonstrated that forsythiaside B could prevent myocardial fibrosis in ISO-induced mice, and may be a potentially rational therapeutic approach for the treatment of myocardial fibrosis.

MicroRNAs in Transforming Growth Factor-Beta Signaling Pathway Associated With Fibrosis Involving Different Systems of the Human Body

Fibrosis, a major cause of morbidity and mortality, is a histopathological manifestation of many chronic inflammatory diseases affecting different systems of the human body. Two types of transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling pathways regulate fibrosis: the canonical TGF-β signaling pathway, represented by SMAD-2 and SMAD-3, and the noncanonical pathway, which functions without SMAD-2/3 participation and currently includes TGF-β/mitogen-activated protein kinases, TGF-β/SMAD-1/5, TGF-β/phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/Akt, TGF-β/Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription protein-3, and TGF-β/rho-associated coiled-coil containing kinase signaling pathways. MicroRNA (miRNA), a type of non-coding single-stranded small RNA, comprises approximately 22 nucleotides encoded by endogenous genes, which can regulate physiological and pathological processes in fibrotic diseases, particularly affecting organs such as the liver, the kidney, the lungs, and the heart. The aim of this review is to introduce the characteristics of the canonical and non-canonical TGF-β signaling pathways and to classify miRNAs with regulatory effects on these two pathways based on the influenced organ. Further, we aim to summarize the limitations of the current research of the mechanisms of fibrosis, provide insights into possible future research directions, and propose therapeutic options for fibrosis.

Huoxin Pill inhibits isoproterenol-induced transdifferentiation and collagen synthesis in cardiac fibroblasts through the TGF-β/Smads pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The abnormal proliferation and differentiation of cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) are universally regarded as the key process for the progressive development of cardiac fibrosis following various cardiovascular diseases. Huoxin Pill (Concentrated pill, HXP) is a Chinese herbal formula for treating coronary heart disease. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms of HXP in the treatment of myocardial fibrosis are still unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate the effects of HXP on CFs transdifferentiation and collagen synthesis under isoproterenol (ISO) conditions, as well as the potential mechanism of action.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In vivo, we established a rat model of cardiac fibrosis induced by ISO, and administered with low or high dose of HXP (10 mg/kg/day or 30 mg/kg/day). The level of α-SMA was detected by immunohistochemistry examination, and combined with RNA-sequencing analysis to determine the protective effect of HXP on myocardial fibrosis rats. In vitro, by culturing primary rat CFs, we examined the effects of HXP on the proliferation and transdifferentiation of CFs using CCK8, scratch wound healing and immunofluorescence assays. Western blot was used to determine protein expression.

RESULTS

The findings revealed that HXP protects against ISO-induced cardiac fibrosis and CFs transdifferentiation in rats. RNA-sequencing and pathway analyses demonstrated 238 or 295 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and multiple enriched signal pathways, including transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) receptor signaling activates Smads, downregulation of TGF-β receptor signaling, signaling by TGF-β receptor complex, and collagen formation under treatment with low or high-dose of HXP. Moreover, HXP also markedly inhibited ISO-induced primary rat CFs proliferation, transdifferentiation, collagen synthesis and the upregulation of TGF-β1 and phosphorylated Smad2/3 protein expression.

CONCLUSION

HXP suppresses ISO-induced CFs transdifferentiation and collagen synthesis, and it may exert these effects in part by inhibiting the activation of the TGF-β/Smads pathway. This may be a new therapeutic tool for cardiac fibrosis.

Pinoresinol diglucoside (PDG) attenuates cardiac hypertrophy via AKT/mTOR/NF-κB signaling in pressure overload-induced rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Pinoresinol diglucoside (PDG), the active compound extracted from Eucommia ulmoides, Styrax sp. and Forsythia suspensa, plays the roles in regulating hypertension, inflammation and oxidative stress.

AIMS

Considering that hypertension and inflammation has been proved to contribute to cardiac remodeling, we tested the effects of PDG on cardiac hypertrophy (CM).

METHODS

Male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were used to construct hypertrophic rats by partial abdominal aortic constriction (AAC)-surgery. PDG solution (2 mg/ml) was used to treat AAC-induced rats by intraperitoneal injection at low dose (L-PDG, 2.5 mg/kg per day), medium dose (M-PDG, 5 mg/kg per day), and high dose (H-PDG, 7.5 mg/kg per day) for 3 weeks post AAC-surgery. CM was evaluated by the ratio of left ventricular weight to body weight ratio (LVW/BW), left ventricular wall thickness by H&E staining, and collagen content deposit by Masson's staining. Further, isoproterenol (ISO) and phenylephrine (PE) were used to produce cellular models of CM in neonatal rat ventricular cardiomyocytes (NRVMs). PDG pre-treated NRVMs 2 h at low dose (L-PDG, 2.5 μg/ml), medium dose (M-PDG, 5 μg/ml), and high dose (H-PDG, 7.5 μg/ml) for 24 h with or without PE- and ISO-stimulation. CM was evaluated by the expressions of hypertrophic biomarkers. Next, the hypertrophic biomarkers and pro-inflammatory cytokines were measured using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), the expressions of protein kinase B (AKT)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)/transcription factor nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kB) signaling pathway were determined by Western blotting.

RESULTS

PDG treatment prevented cardiac histomorphology damages, decreased upregulations of hypertrophic biomarkers, and prevented fibrosis and inflammation after pressure overload resulting from AAC-surgery. Consistently, PDG remarkably inhibited the changes of cardiomyocyte hypertrophic biomarkers and inflammatory responses in cellular models of CM. Interestingly, PDG administration inhibited the activation of AKT/mTOR/NF-kB signaling pathway both in vivo and in vitro.

CONCLUSIONS

PDG prevents AAC-induced CM in vivo, PE- and ISO-induced CM in vitro. The AKT/mTOR/NF-kB signaling pathway could be the potential therapeutic target involved in the protection of PDG. These findings provide novel evidence that PDG might be a promising therapeutic strategy for CM.

Production of antimicrobial metabolites against pathogenic bacteria and yeasts by Fusarium oxysporum in submerged culture processes

The antimicrobial activity of the metabolites produced by Fusarium oxysporum PR-33 in submerged culture was evaluated against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and yeasts. Metabolites were determined by HPLC-DAD-MS/MS. An extract was obtained following the removal of mycelium by centrifugation and lyophilisation of the supernatant. The compounds in this extract demonstrated broad-spectrum antimicrobial action, with rates of inhibition between 60 and 80%, depending on the species and extract tested. The major compounds of the extracts were identified as fusarinolic acid and its isomer [56.9% flask extract (FE)] and 59.2% bioreactor extract (BE), dehydrofusaric acid (35.7% FE and 31.6% BE), and fusaric acid (6.5% FE and 1.1% BE). Fusaric acid has been shown to be responsible for antimicrobial activity. The cytotoxicity of the extracts was evaluated in culture of HEK-293 and SH-SY5Y animal cells and toxicity of these extracts was verified even in the lowest tested concentrations. Therefore, our results indicate that the compounds identified exhibit potential as antimicrobial agents.

Crosstalk between the activated Slit2-Robo1 pathway and TGF-β1 signalling promotes cardiac fibrosis

AIMS

Previous reports indicated that the Slit2-Robo signalling pathway is involved in embryonic heart development and fibrosis in other solid organs, but its function in adult cardiac fibrosis has not been investigated. Here, we investigate the role of the Slit2-Robo1 signalling pathway in cardiac fibrosis.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The right atrial tissue samples were obtained from patients with valvular heart disease complicated by atrial fibrillation during heart valve surgery and from healthy heart donors. The fibrotic animal model is created by performing transverse aortic constriction (TAC) surgery. The Robo1, Slit2, TGF-β1, and collagen I expression levels in human and animal samples were evaluated by immunohistochemistry and western blot analysis. Echocardiography measured the changes in heart size and cardiac functions of animals. Angiotensin II (Ang II), Slit2-siRNA, TGF-β1-siRNA, recombinant Slit2, and recombinant TGF-β1 were transfected to cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) respectively to observe their effects on collagen I expression level. The right atrial appendage of patients with valvular heart disease complicated by atrial fibrillation found significantly up-regulated Slit2, Robo1, TGF-β1, and collagen I expression levels. TAC surgery leads to heart enlargement, cardiac fibrosis, and up-regulation of Slit2, Robo1, TGF-β1, and collagen I expression levels in animal model. Robo1 antagonist R5 and TGF-β1 antagonist SB431542 suppressed cardiac fibrosis in TAC mice. Treatment with 100 nM Ang II in CFs caused significantly increased Slit2, Robo1, Smad2/3, TGF-β1, collagen I, PI3K, and Akt expression levels. Transfecting Slit2-siRNA and TGF-β1-siRNA, respectively, into rat CFs significantly down-regulated Smad2/3 and collagen I expression, inhibiting the effects of Ang II. Recombinant Slit2 activated the TGF-β1/Smad signalling pathway in CFs and up-regulated Periostin, Robo1, and collagen I expression.

CONCLUSIONS

The Slit2-Robo1 signalling pathway interfered with the TGF-β1/Smad pathway and promoted cardiac fibrosis. Blockade of Slit2-Robo1 might be a new treatment for cardiac fibrosis.

Concurrent vitamin D supplementation and exercise training improve cardiac fibrosis via TGF-β/Smad signaling in myocardial infarction model of rats

Although the role of vitamin D in various types of disorders such as cancer and diabetes has been well recognized, its relation to cardiovascular diseases still remains equivocal. The present study aims to investigate the interactive effects of aerobic-resistance training (ART) and vitamin D₃ (VD₃) on both cardiac fibrosis and heart functions considering TGF-β1/Smad2, 3 (transforming growth factor-β1/mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 2/3) signaling in the myocardial infarction (MI) model of rats. Fifty-six male Wistar rats were divided into 2 groups of sham (n = 8), and MI (n = 48). Then, MI rats were divided into six groups of VD₃, ART, VD₃+ART, Veh, Veh+ART, and sedentary MI. The animals received the related treatments for 8 weeks, and then their functional exercise capacity (FEC) and strength gain (SG) were estimated through exercise tests. Ejection fraction (EF%) and fractional shortening (FS%) and serum level of VD₃ were measured by echocardiography and ELISA, respectively. Cardiac expressions of TGF-β1, Smad2/3, and collagen I/III were assessed by western blotting and fibrosis by Masson's trichrome staining. The highest EF, parallel with the lowest expression of cardiac TGF-β1, Smad2/3, collagen I, and collagen III were observed in MI + VD₃ (P = 0.021), MI + ART (P = 0.001), and MI + VD₃ + ART (P < 0.001). Furthermore, similar to FS, the highest FEC and SG were related to the groups of MI + VD₃ + ART and MI + ART compared to the MI group. In conclusion, our data indicate that concurrent vitamin D supplementation and ART, compared with monotherapy, successfully improve cardiac function and alleviate myocardial fibrosis via downregulating TGF-β1, Smad2/3 signaling, and also regulating collagen I and III expressions.

Huoxin pill attenuates myocardial infarction-induced apoptosis and fibrosis via suppression of p53 and TGF-β1/Smad2/3 pathways

Huoxin Pill (HXP), a Traditional Chinese Medicine, is used widely to treat patients with coronary heart disease and angina pectoris in China. However, the underlying protective mechanism of HXP on cardiac apoptosis and fibrosis has never been evaluated. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the role of HXP in a myocardial infarction (MI) mouse model. The mice were randomly divided into 3 groups and subjected to surgical ligation of the left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery or sham surgery (n = 6 for each group) and treated with HXP (50 mg/kg/day) or saline by gavage for 2 weeks. At 2 weeks post MI, we found that HXP significantly enhanced myocardial function and attenuated the increase of heart weight index (HWI) and pathological changes in MI mice. RNA-sequencing and KEGG pathway analyses identified 660 differentially expressed genes and multiple enriched signaling pathways including p53 and TGF-β. In support of these findings, HXP attenuated cardiac apoptosis and decreased p53 and Bax protein expression, while increasing Bcl-2 protein expression in cardiac tissues of MI mice. Furthermore, HXP treatment inhibited cardiac fibrosis and significantly down-regulated TGF-β1 protein expression and Smad2/3 phosphorylation in cardiac tissues. In summary, HXP can improve cardiac function in mice after MI by attenuating cardiac apoptosis and fibrosis partly via supression of the p53/Bax/Bcl-2 and TGF-β1/Smad2/3 pathways.

Fusaric acid-induced epigenetic modulation of hepatic H3K9me3 triggers apoptosis in vitro and in vivo

Aim: To determine the effect of the food-borne mycotoxin, fusaric acid (FA) on miR-200a, SUV39H1-mediated H3K9me3, genome integrity and apoptosis in human liver (HepG2) cells and C57BL/6 mice livers. Materials & methods: MiR-200a, Sirt1, SUV39H1-mediated H3K9me3, genome integrity and apoptosis was measured in HepG2 cells and C57BL/6 mice livers using qPCR, western blot, DNA electrophoresis and luminometry. Results: FA: upregulated miR-200a and decreased Sirt1 expression in HepG2 cells and mice livers; decreased expression of SUV39H1 and KDM4B, thus decreasing H3K9me3 and increasing H3K9me1; increased cell mortality via apoptosis. Conclusion: FA induced apoptosis by upregulating miR-200a and decreasing SUV39H1-mediated H3K9me3 in HepG2 cells and mice livers.

The Mechanism Underlying the Protective Effects of Tannic Acid Against Isoproterenol-Induced Myocardial Fibrosis in Mice

Tannic acid (TA) belongs to a class of complex water-soluble polyphenolic derivatives that show anticarcinogenic, antiinflammatory, antioxidant, and scavenging activities. Here, we investigate the protective effects of TA against isoproterenol (ISO)-induced myocardial fibrosis (MF) in mice. Mice received TA and ISO dosing and were sacrificed 48 h later. The activities of creatine kinase (CK), creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and mitochondria enzymes were measured. Cardiac histopathology was done using H&E, Sirius red, and Masson’s Trichrome staining. Immunohistochemical staining was applied to indicate changes in B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2), Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax), and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) protein expressions in cardiac tissue. RT-PCR was used to measure the expression of atrial and brain natriuretic peptides (ANP and BNP, respectively), c-fos, and c-jun. Western blotting was used to measure the expression of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) p65, phosphorylated NF-κB p65), toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), p38, phosphorylated p38, Bax, Bcl-2, and caspase-3. Compared to the ISO group, the TA group had reduced levels of TLR4, p38, p-p38, NF-κB (p65), p-NF-κB (p-p65), caspase-3, Bax, and Bcl-2, as well as CK, CK-MB, and LDH. These results indicate that TA protects against ISO-induced MF, possibly through its ability to suppress the TLR4-mediated NF-κB signaling pathway.

Ursolic acid modulates MMPs, collagen-I, α-SMA, and TGF-β expression in isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction in rats

In the present study, the modulatory effect of ursolic acid (UA) on cardiac fibrosis and mitochondrial and lysosomal enzymes activity in isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction (MI) in rats were examined. Isoproterenol hydrochloride (ISO; 85 mg/kg body weight) was administered subcutaneously for first two consecutive days. ISO-induced MI in rats significantly decreased the activities of mitochondrial tricarboxylic acid cycle enzymes and respiratory chain enzymes while increased the activities of lysosomal glycohydrolases and cathepsins. The expression of matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2), MMP-9, collagen type I, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) were upregulated in ISO-induced MI in rats. UA administration to rats showed increased activities of mitochondrial tricarboxylic acid cycle enzymes and respiratory chain enzymes and decreased activities of lysosomal glycohydrolases and cathepsins in ISO-induced rats. Furthermore, expression of MMP-2, MMP-9, collagen type I, α-SMA, and TGF-β downregulated in UA-administered rats. Thus, our results demonstrate that UA has an anti-fibrotic effect and attenuates the mitochondrial and lysosomal dysfunction in ISO-induced MI in rats.

Fusaric acid-induced promoter methylation of DNA methyltransferases triggers DNA hypomethylation in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cells

Fusaric acid (FA), a mycotoxin contaminant of maize, displays toxicity in plants and animals; however, its epigenetic mechanism is unknown. DNA methylation, an epigenetic modification that regulates gene expression, is mediated by DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs; DNMT1, DNMT3A, and DNMT3B) and demethylases (MBD2). The expression of DNMTs and demethylases are regulated by promoter methylation, microRNAs (miR-29b) and post-translational modifications (ubiquitination). Alterations in these DNA methylation modifying enzymes affect DNA methylation patterns and offer novel mechanisms of FA toxicity. We determined the effect of FA on global DNA methylation as well as a mechanism of FA-induced changes in DNA methylation by transcriptional (promoter methylation), post-transcriptional (miR-29b) and post-translational (ubiquitination) regulation of DNMTs and MBD2 in the human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cell line. FA induced global DNA hypomethylation (p < 0.0001) in HepG2 cells. FA decreased the mRNA and protein expression of DNMT1 (p < 0.0001), DNMT3A (p < 0.0001), and DNMT3B (p < 0.0001) by upregulating miR-29b (p < 0.0001) and inducing promoter hypermethylation of DNMT1 (p < 0.0001) and DNMT3B (p < 0.0001). FA decreased the ubiquitination of DNMT1 (p = 0.0753), DNMT3A (p = 0.0008), and DNMT3B (p < 0.0001) by decreasing UHRF1 (p < 0.0001) and USP7 (p < 0.0001). FA also induced MBD2 promoter hypomethylation (p < 0.0001) and increased MBD2 expression (p < 0.0001). Together these results indicate that FA induces global DNA hypomethylation by altering DNMT promoter methylation, upregulating miR-29b, and increasing MBD2 in HepG2 cells.

LncRNA PVT1 regulates atrial fibrosis via miR-128-3p-SP1-TGF-β1-Smad axis in atrial fibrillation

BACKGROUND

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNA) plasmacytoma variant translocation 1 (PVT1) has been shown to be associated with liver fibrosis. Nevertheless, the role of PVT1 in atrial fibrosis remains undefined. This study aims to elucidate the pathophysiological role of lncRNA PVT1 in the regulation of atrial fibrosis and to explore the underlying mechanism.

METHODS

Expression of PVT1, miR-128-sp, and Sp1 were examined in human atrial muscle tissues and angiotensin-II (Ang-II)-induced human atrial fibroblasts. Furthermore, the role of PVT1 in regulating atrial fibrosis in Ang-II-treated human atrial fibroblasts and Ang-II-induced atrial fibrosis in mice was investigated. Moreover, the interaction among PVT1, miR-128-3p, and Sp1 were examined using bioinformatics, expression correlation analysis, gain- or loss-of-function assays, RIP assays, and luciferase reporter assays. The involvement of transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1)/Smad pathway in this process was also explored.

RESULTS

PVT1 was increased in atrial muscle tissues from AF patients and positively with collagen I and collagen III. In vitro assay revealed that PVT1 overexpression facilitated the Ang-II-induced atrial fibroblasts proliferation, collagen production, and TGF-β1/Smad signaling activation, whereas PVT1 knockdown caused the opposite effect. In vivo assay further confirmed that PVT1 knockdown attenuated the Ang-II-induced mouse atrial fibrosis. Mechanically, PVT1 acted as a sponge for miR-128-3p to facilitate Sp1 expression, thereby activating the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

LncRNA PVT1 promotes atrial fibrosis via miR-128-3p-SP1-TGF-β1-Smad axis in atrial fibrillation.

Ginsenoside Re Improves Isoproterenol-Induced Myocardial Fibrosis and Heart Failure in Rats

Objective. Panax ginseng is used widely for treatment of cardiovascular disorders in China. Ginsenoside Re is the main chemical component of P. ginseng. We aimed to investigate the protective effect of ginsenoside Re on isoproterenol-induced myocardial fibrosis and heart failure in rats. Methods. A model of myocardial fibrosis and heart failure was established by once-daily subcutaneous injection of isoproterenol (5 mg/kg/day) to rats for 7 days. Simultaneously, rats were orally administrated ginsenoside Re (5 or 20 mg/kg) or vehicle daily for 4 weeks. Results. Isoproterenol enhanced the heart weight, myocardial fibrosis, and hydroxyproline content in rat hearts. Ginsenoside Re inhibited (at least in part) the isoproterenol-induced increase in heart weight, myocardial fibrosis, and hydroxyproline content. Compared with the isoproterenol group, treatment with ginsenoside Re ameliorated changes in left ventricular systolic pressure, left ventricular end diastolic pressure, and the positive and negative maximal values of the first derivative of left ventricular pressure. Ginsenoside Re administration also resulted in decreased expression of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 in serum and decreased expression of Smad3 and collagen I in heart tissue. Conclusion. Ginsenoside Re can improve isoproterenol-induced myocardial fibrosis and heart failure by regulation of the TGF-β1/Smad3 pathway.

MiR-20a-3p regulates TGF-β1/Survivin pathway to affect keratinocytes proliferation and apoptosis by targeting SFMBT1 in vitro

Psoriasis is a common immune-mediated chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by abnormal keratinocyte proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis. However, the exact etiology and pathogenesis are still unclear. Evidence is rapidly accumulating for the role of microRNAs in psoriasis. It has been demonstrated that Interleukin-22 (IL-22) plays vital role in T cell-mediated immune response by interacting with keratinocytes in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. The aim of our study was to explore the possible functional role of miR-20a-3p in psoriasis and in IL-22 induced keratinocyte proliferation. Here, we found that miR-20a-3p was down-regulated in psoriatic lesions and in HaCaT cells (human keratinocyte cell line) treated by IL-22 stimulation. Functional experiments showed that overexpression of miR-20a-3p in HaCaT cells suppressed proliferation and induced apoptosis while its knockdown promoted cell proliferation and reduces cell apoptosis. Mechanistically, SFMBT1 was identified as the direct target of miR-20a-3p by dual luciferase reporter assay. SFMBT1 knockdown was demonstrated to inhibit cell growth and induced apoptosis, which was consistent with the function of miR-20a-3p upregulation in HaCaT cells. In addition, results of western blot analysis showed that miR-20a-3p upregulation or SFMBT1 knockdown changed the protein expression levels of TGF-β1 and survivin. Our findings suggest that miR-20a-3p play roles through targeting SFMBT1 and TGF-β1/Survivin pathway in HaCaT cells, and loss of miR-20a-3p in psoriasis may contribute to hyperproliferation and aberrant apoptosis of keratinocytes.

Geniposide Alleviates Isoproterenol-Induced Cardiac Fibrosis Partially via SIRT1 Activation in vivo and in vitro

Objective: Geniposide (GE) is a major component in the fruit of Gardenia jasminoides Ellis. Oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and canonical Smad3 pathway are implicated in the pathogenesis of cardiac fibrosis. We aim to investigate the protective roles of GE in isoproterenol (ISO)-induced cardiac fibrosis.

Methods: ISO was used to induce cardiac fibrosis in male C57BL/6 mice. GE and the EX-527 were given for 2 weeks to detect the effects of GE on cardiac fibrosis. Levels of oxidative stress, ER stress, and Smad3 were evaluated by real time-PCR, Western blots, immunohistochemistry staining, immunofluorescence staining, and assay kits.

Results: GE treatment alleviated cardiac dysfunction, fibrosis, and hypertrophy in mice response to ISO. Additionally, GE also suppressed the transformation of cardiac fibroblasts to myofibroblasts stimulated by transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) in vitro. Mechanistically, GE inhibited the oxidative stress, ER stress, as well as Smad3 pathway activated by ISO or TGF-β. A selective antagonist of sirtuin 1 deacetylase (SIRT1), EX-527, partially counteracted the anti-fibrotic effect and weakened the inhibitory effect on the transformation of cardiac fibroblasts to myofibroblasts after the treatment of GE. Acetylated Smad3 (ac-Smad3), oxidative stress, as well as ER stress pathway were significantly enhanced after SIRT1 was blocked while phosphorylated Smad3 (P-Smad3) was not affected.

Conclusion: GE could combat cardiac fibrosis in vivo and in vitro by inhibiting oxidative stress, ER stress, and ac-Smad3 in a SIRT1-dependent manner and suppressing P-Samd3 pathway independent of SIRT1 activation. GE is expected to be a promising agent against cardiac fibrosis.

The positive role of vitronectin in radiation induced lung toxicity: the in vitro and in vivo mechanism study

Background

Radiation-induced lung toxicity (RILT) is a severe complication of radiotherapy in patients with thoracic tumors. Through proteomics, we have previously identified vitronectin (VTN) as a potential biomarker for patients with lung toxicity of grade ≥ 2 radiation. Herein, we explored the molecular mechanism of VTN in the process of RILT.

Methods

In this study, lentivirus encoding for VTN and VTN-specific siRNA were constructed and transfected into the cultured fibroblasts and C57BL mice. Real-time PCR, western blot and ELISA were used to examine expression of collagens and several potential proteins involved in lung fibrosis. Hematoxylin–eosin and immunohistochemical staining were used to assess the fibrosis scores of lung tissue from mice received irradiation.

Results

The expression of VTN was up-regulated by irradiation. The change trend of collagens, TGF-β expression and p-ERK, p-AKT, and p-JNK expression levels were positively related with VTN mRNA level. Furthermore, overexpression of VTN significantly increased the expression level of α-SMA, as well as the degree of lung fibrosis in mice at 8 and 12 weeks post-irradiation. By contrast, siRNA VTN induced opposite results both in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusions

VTN played a positive role in the lung fibrosis of RILT, possibly through modulation of fibrosis regulatory pathways and up-regulating the expression levels of fibrosis-related genes. Taken together, all the results suggested that VTN had a novel therapeutic potential for the treatment of RILT.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12967-018-1474-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Isoproterenol-Induced Heart Failure Mouse Model Using Osmotic Pump Implantation

Isoproterenol is used widely for inducing heart failure in mice. Isoproterenol is a nonselective beta-adrenergic agonist. The acute model mimics stress-induced cardiomyopathy. The chronic model mimics advanced heart failure in humans. In this chapter, we describe a protocol that we used to induce heart failure in 100+ strains of inbred mice. Techniques on surgical pump implantation and echocardiography are described in detail. We also discuss the impact of drug dosage, duration, mortality, age, gender, and strain on cardiac remodeling responses. The success of model creation may be assessed by echocardiogram or molecular markers. This chapter may be relevant to those who are interested in using this heart failure model.