MiR-130a exerts neuroprotective effects against ischemic stroke through PTEN/PI3K/AKT pathway

Mechanism of Efferocytosis in Determining Ischaemic Stroke Resolution-Diving into Microglia/Macrophage Functions and Therapeutic Modality

After ischaemic cerebral vascular injury, efferocytosis-a process known as the efficient clearance of apoptotic cells (ACs) by various phagocytes in both physiological and pathological states-is crucial for maintaining central nervous system (CNS) homeostasis and regaining prognosis. The mechanisms of efferocytosis in ischaemic stroke and its influence on preventing inflammation progression from secondary injury were still not fully understood, despite the fact that the fundamental process of efferocytosis has been described in a series of phases, including AC recognition, phagocyte engulfment, and subsequent degradation. The genetic reprogramming of macrophages and brain-resident microglia after an ischaemic stroke has been equated by some researchers to that of the peripheral blood and brain. Based on previous studies, some molecules, such as signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 (STAT6), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARG), CD300A, and sigma non-opioid intracellular receptor 1 (SIGMAR1), were discovered to be largely associated with aspects of apoptotic cell elimination and accompanying neuroinflammation, such as inflammatory cytokine release, phenotype transformation, and suppressing of antigen presentation. Exacerbated stroke outcomes are brought on by defective efferocytosis and improper modulation of pertinent signalling pathways in blood-borne macrophages and brain microglia, which also results in subsequent tissue inflammatory damage. This review focuses on recent researches which contain a number of recently discovered mechanisms, such as studies on the relationship between benign efferocytosis and the regulation of inflammation in ischaemic stroke, the roles of some risk factors in disease progression, and current immune approaches that aim to promote efferocytosis to treat some autoimmune diseases. Understanding these pathways provides insight into novel pathophysiological processes and fresh characteristics, which can be used to build cerebral ischaemia targeting techniques.

Non-coding RNAs and angiogenesis in cardiovascular diseases: a comprehensive review

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have key roles in the etiology of many illnesses, including heart failure, myocardial infarction, stroke, and in physiological processes like angiogenesis. In transcriptional regulatory circuits that control heart growth, signaling, and stress response, as well as remodeling in cardiac disease, ncRNAs have become important players. Studies on ncRNAs and cardiovascular disease have made great progress recently. Here, we go through the functions of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) like circular RNAs (circRNAs), and microRNAs (miRNAs) as well as long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in modulating cardiovascular disorders.

Crocin alleviates neurotoxicity induced by bupivacaine in SH-SY5Y cells with inhibition of PI3K/AKT signaling

BACKGROUND

Bupivacaine, a common local anesthetic, can cause neurotoxicity and permanent neurological disorders. Crocin has been widely reported as a potential neuroprotective agent in neural injury models.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the role and regulatory mechanism of crocin underlying bupivacaine-induced neurotoxicity.

METHOD

Human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells were treated with bupivacaine and/or crocin for 24 h, followed by detecting cell viability using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. The effect of crocin or bupivacaine on SH-SY5Y cell proliferation was measured by Ki67 immunofluorescence assay. The levels of apoptosis-related proteins and the markers in the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway were examined using western blot analysis. The activities of caspase 3, catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) were tested using respective commercial assay kits. Flow cytometry analysis was executed for detecting SH-SY5Y cell apoptosis.

RESULT

Crocin attenuated bupivacaine-induced neurotoxicity in SH-SY5Y cells. Meanwhile, crocin inhibited SH-SY5Y cell apoptosis induced by bupivacaine via repressing the activity of caspase-3, reducing Bax expression, and elevating Bcl-2 expression. Moreover, crocin mitigated oxidative stress in SH-SY5Y cells by increasing the content of CAT, SOD, GSH-Px and reducing the content of MDA. Additionally, crocin protected against bupivacaine-induced dephosphorylation of Akt and GSK-3β. The protective effects of crocin against bupivacaine-induced neurotoxicity in SH-SY5Y cells were counteracted by the Akt inhibitor.

CONCLUSION

These results suggested that crocin may exert a neuroprotective function by promoting cell proliferation and suppressing apoptosis and oxidative stress in SH-SY5Y cells. Thus, crocin might become a promising drug for the treatment of bupivacaine-induced neurotoxicity.

A cellular regulator of the niche: telocyte

Interstitial cells are present in the environment of stem cells in order to increase stem cell proliferation and differentiation and they are important to increase the efficiency of their transplantation. Telocytes (TCs) play an important role both in the preservation of tissue organ integrity and in the pathophysiology of many diseases, especially cancer. They make homo- or heterocellular contacts to form the structure of 3D network through their telopodes and deliver signaling molecules via a juxtacrine and/or paracrine association by budding shed vesicles into the vascular, nervous and endocrine systems. During this interaction, along with organelles, mRNA, microRNA, long non-coding RNA, and genomic DNA are transferred. This review article not only specifies the properties of TCs and their roles in the tissue organ microenvironment but also gives information about the factors that play a role in the transport of epigenetic information by TCs.

miR-181a targets PTEN to mediate the neuronal injury caused by oxygen-glucose deprivation and reoxygenation

Evidence suggests that the microRNA-181 (miR-181) family performs various roles in the pathophysiology of cerebral ischemia and reperfusion injury (CIRI). MiR-181a has been identified as a critical determinant of neuronal survival. Moreover, the significance of miR-181a in controlling neuronal death after CIRI has received little attention. The objective of this study was to assess the role of miR-181a in neuronal cell injury after CIRI. To mimic the in-vitro and in-vivo CIRI, we developed an oxygen-glucose deficiency/reoxygenation (OGD/R) model in SH-SY5Y cells and a transient middle cerebral artery occlusion model in rats. MiR-181a expression was significantly higher in both in-vivo and in-vitro CIRI models. The overexpression of miR-181a increased cell damage and oxidative stress caused by OGD/R, whereas inhibition of miR-181a reduced both. PTEN has also been found to be a direct miR-181a target. PTEN overexpression reduced cell apoptosis and oxidative stress induced by miR-181a upregulation under an OGD/R condition. Furthermore, we found that the rs322931 A allele was related to increased miR-181a levels in IS peripheral blood and higher susceptibility to IS. The current results offer new insights into the understanding of the molecular pathophysiology of CIRI, as well as possible new treatment candidates.

Puerarin from Pueraria lobate attenuates ischemia-induced cardiac injuries and inflammation in vitro and in vivo: The key role of miR-130a-5p/HMGB2 pathway

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is a common cardiovascular disease and puerarin (Pue) is an active compound from Pueraria lobate with cardio-protective potential. In the current study, the mechanism underlying the cardio-protective effects of Pue was explored by focusing miR-130a-5p/HMGB2 pathway. MiR expression profile was determined and myocardial infarction was induced in cardiomyocytes and rats, which was treated with Pue. The role of miR-130a-5p and downstream HMGB2/NF-κB axis in the cardio-protective effects of Pue was also explored. Pue increased viability and suppressed inflammation in OGD cardiomyocytes, which was associated with the deactivation of HMGB2/NF-κB pathway. After the suppression of miR-130a-5p, the cardio-protective effects of Pue were compromised. In rat models, Pue attenuated structure deterioration and inflammatory response in heart. At the molecular level, miR-130a-5p was up-regulated, and HMGB2 were down-regulated. It was demonstrated that Pue induced the expression of miR-130a-5p, which suppressed the activity of HMGB2/NF-κB, contributing to the attenuation of infarct heart tissues.

MiR-130a-3p regulates FUNDC1-mediated mitophagy by targeting GJA1 in myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury

Understanding the complex pathogenesis in myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury (IRI) is an urgent problem in clinical trials. Increasing pieces of evidence have suggested that miRNAs are involved in the occurrence and development of heart diseases by regulating mitochondria-related gene expression. Mitochondria have been acknowledged as the key triggers of cardiac I/R injury. However, the potential impact of miR-130a on mitochondria remains unclear in myocardial IRI. Exploring the regulatory mechanism of miR-130a on mitochondria may provide a new target for IRI therapy. In the present study, we found that miR-130a significantly increased in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients and myocardial I/R rats. MiR-130a could downregulate the viability of cardiomyocytes and the knockdown of miR-130a could protect the viability of cardiomyocytes under hypoxia-reoxygenation (HR). Over-expression of miR-130a resulted in mitochondrial dysfunction. It was evidenced by decreases in mitochondrial ATP production, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. However, suppression of miR-130a could protect against mitochondrial damage, show elevation of mitochondrial ATP production rate and MMP, and reduce ROS production. We further explored the effect of miR-130a on the mitochondrial quality control (QMC) system by determining mitochondrial-protein-specific proteases and analyzed mitochondrial morphology by fluorescence imaging and electron microscopy, respectively. It was noted that miR-130a could suppress mitochondrial fusion and FUNDC1-mediated mitophagy to accelerate myocardial IRI. Moreover, we investigated the potential miR-130a targeted mitochondria-related genes to understand the regulatory mechanism of miR-130a in the setting of myocardial IRI. It was revealed that miR-130a targeted GJA1, and GJA1 rescued IRI by enhancing ATP production rate and oxidative phosphorylation, meanwhile protecting cell viability, MMP, and activating mitophagy. In addition, the knockdown of miR-130a significantly activated FUNDC1-mediated mitophagy, while the knockdown of GJA1 reversed the relevant response. Collectively, our findings suggest that miR-130a regulates FUNDC1-mediated mitophagy by targeting GJA1 in myocardial IRI.

Helixor-M Suppresses Immunostimulatory Activity through TLR4-Dependent NF-κB Pathway in RAW 264.7 Cells

Inflammation causes a protective immune response, which can be observed by examining the inflammatory responses of macrophages. Macrophages release various immunostimulatory factors when destroying external pathogens. We induced lipopolysaccharides (LPS) in RAW 264.7 cells, a macrophage cell line, to determine whether Helixor-M can cause immuno-suppression. Helixor-M is known to have anticancer and immune effects. However, an indicator that regulates immunity has not been clearly confirmed. To this end, 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was conducted to confirm Helixor-M was not cytotoxic. Western blotting and real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) confirmed the anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally, immunofluorescence assay confirmed the translocation of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) p65, a representative inflammatory pathway. Helixor-M was found to be non-cytotoxic, induce the NF-κB pathway, and reduce the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokine and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). We found Helixor-M affected the PI3K/AKT/JNK pathway. Therefore, we confirmed Helixor-M acts as an anti-inflammatory agent through NF-κB, TLR4 and PI3K inhibition and that it could be an effective immunosuppressive drug.

miR-9a-5p Protects Ischemic Stroke by Regulating Oxidative Stress and Mitochondrial Autophagy

Purpose

Present research is aimed at exploring the effect of miR-9a-5p on mitochondrial autophagy and alleviating cellular oxidative stress injury in ischemic stroke.

Methods

SH-SY5Y cells were cultured with oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) to simulate ischemia/reperfusion. The cells were treated in an anaerobic incubator (95% N₂, 5% CO₂) for 2 h and then reoxygenated in the normoxic condition for 24 h with 2 ml of normal medium. Cells were transfected with miR-9a-5p mimic/inhibitor or negative control. The RT-qPCR assay was utilized to measure the mRNA expression. Western blot was utilized to evaluate the protein expression. The CCK-8 assay was conducted to detect cell viability. Flow cytometry was applied to examine apoptosis and the cell cycle. The ELISA assay was applied to measure the contents of SOD and MDA in mitochondria. Autophagosomes were observed via electron microscopy.

Results

By comparison with the control group, the miR-9a-5p expression in the OGD/R group obviously declined. Mitochondrial crista breaks, vacuole-like changes, and increased autophagosome formation were observed in the OGD/R group. OGD/R injury enhanced oxidative stress damage and mitophagy. When transfected with the miR-9a-5p mimic, mitophagosome production of SH-SY5Y cells decreased and oxidative stress injury was inhibited. However, the miR-9a-5p inhibitor obviously increased mitophagosome production and enhanced oxidative stress injury.

Conclusion

miR-9a-5p protects against ischemic stroke by inhibiting OGD/R-induced mitochondrial autophagy and alleviating cellular oxidative stress injury.

The protection impact of tectoridin on PC12 cell preventing OGD/R-caused damage through PI3K/AKT signaling channel

The present work examined the effect exerted by tectoridin preventing oxygen glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) damage within PC12 cell. We incubated PC12 cells with Na₂S₂O₄ (10 mM) for 2 h, and tectoridin at different concentrations was then added; based on methyl-thiazolyl-tetrazolium (MTT) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) tests, the protection impact was tested. 2',7'-dicholorofluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA), Fluo-3AM, and 5, 5', 6, 6' -tetrachloro-1, 1', 3, 3' -tetraethyl-imidacarbocyanine iodide (JC-1) staining, and Western blotting were used for determining reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, intracellular Ca²⁺ content, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and the related proteins contents. As a result, tectoridin could improve the cell viability and inhibit the release of LDH. In-depth studies demonstrated that tectoridin limited the overproduction of ROS and intracellular Ca²⁺ content and increased MMP, which showed a close association with ROS-mediated mitochondrial function. Moreover, tectoridin hindered apoptosis based on the up-regulation of the expressions of p-AKT, Bcl-2/Bax and p-mTOR. Furthermore, the level of Nrf2 was also improved by treatment of tectoridin. In addition, the expression of Bcl-2/Bax, p-Akt, p-mTOR, Nrf2, HO-1, NQO1 and GCLM were reduced by LY294002 and the protective role of tectoridin was limited by LY294002. The results unambiguously suggested that tectoridin reduced OGD/R-caused damage to PC12 cells and might ensure neuroprotection by stimulating the PI3K/AKT signaling channel.

miR-101-3p improves neuronal morphology and attenuates neuronal apoptosis in ischemic stroke in young mice by downregulating HDAC9

Objective

MiRNAs play a key role in ischemic stroke (IS). Although miR-101-3p can participate in multiple disease processes, its role and mechanism in IS are not clear. The aim of the present study was to observe the effect of miR-101-3p activation on IS in young mice and the role of HDAC9 in this effect.

Methods

The young mice were first subjected to transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO) or sham surgery, and the cerebral infarct area was assessed with 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining. Meanwhile, the expressions of miR-101-3p and HDAC9 were tested using RT-qPCR or western blot. Besides, neuron morphology and apoptosis were confirmed using Nissl staining and TUNEL staining.

Results

We first verified that miR-101-3p was downregulated and HDAC9 was upregulated in the brain tissue of tMCAO young mice. Moreover, we proved that overexpression of miR-101-3p could improve cerebral infarction, neuronal morphology, and neuronal apoptosis in tMCAO young mice by lowering the expression of HDAC9.

Conclusions

Activation of miR-101-3p can protect against IS in young mice, and its mechanism is relevant to the inhibition of HDAC9. Therefore, miR-101-3p and HDAC9 might be the latent targets for IS therapy.

IL1RAP Knockdown in LPS-Stimulated Normal Human Astrocytes Suppresses LPS-Induced Reactive Astrogliosis and Promotes Neuronal Cell Proliferation

The reactivation of astrocytes plays a critical role in spinal cord injury (SCI) repairment. In this study, IL1RAP expression has been found to be upregulated in SCI mice spinal cord, SCI astrocytes, and LPS-stimulated NHAs. Genes correlated with IL1RAP were significantly enriched in cell proliferation relative pathways. In LPS-stimulated NHAs, IL1RAP overexpression promoted NHA cell proliferation, decreased PTEN protein levels, and increased the phosphorylation of Akt and mTOR. IL1RAP overexpression promoted LPS-induced NHA activation and NF-κB signaling activation. Conditioned medium from IL1RAP-overexpressing NHAs inhibited SH-SY5Y cells viability but promoted cell apoptosis. Conclusively, IL1RAP knockdown in LPS-stimulated NHAs could partially suppress LPS-induced reactive astrogliosis, therefore promoting neuronal cell proliferation.

The Roles of Exosomes upon Metallic Ions Stimulation in Bone Regeneration

Metallic ions have been widely investigated and incorporated into bone substitutes for bone regeneration owing to their superior capacity to induce angiogenesis and osteogenesis. Exosomes are key paracrine mediators that play a crucial role in cell-to-cell communication. However, the role of exosomes in metallic ion-induced bone formation and their underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Thus, this review systematically analyzes the effects of metallic ions and metallic ion-incorporated biomaterials on exosome secretion from mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and macrophages, as well as the effects of secreted exosomes on inflammation, angiogenesis, and osteogenesis. In addition, possible signaling pathways involved in metallic ion-mediated exosomes, followed by bone regeneration, are discussed. Despite limited investigation, metallic ions have been confirmed to regulate exosome production and function, affecting immune response, angiogenesis, and osteogenesis. Although the underlying mechanism is not yet clear, these insights enrich our understanding of the mechanisms of the metallic ion-induced microenvironment for bone regeneration, benefiting the design of metallic ion-incorporated implants.

Electroacupuncture of Baihui and Shenting ameliorates cognitive deficits via Pten/Akt pathway in a rat cerebral ischemia injury model

Cerebral ischemic stroke is a huge threat to the health and life of many people. Electroacupuncture (EA) at Baihui (GV20) and Shenting (GV24) acupoints can notably alleviate cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury (CIRI). However, the molecular basis underlying the effectiveness of EA at the GV20 and GV24 acupoints for CIRI remains largely unknown. Our present study demonstrated that EA treatment at the GV20 and GV24 acupoints markedly alleviated middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/R)-induced cognitive deficits and cerebral infarction in rats. Proteomics analysis revealed that 195 and 218 proteins were dysregulated in rat hippocampal tissues in the MCAO/R vs. sham group and thhhe EA vs. MCAO/R group, respectively. Moreover, 62 proteins with converse alteration trends in MCAO/R vs. sham and EA vs. MCAO/R groups were identified. These proteins might be implicated in the EA-mediated protective effect against MCAO/R-induced cerebral injury. GO enrichment analysis showed that 39 dysregulated proteins in the MCAO/R vs. sham group and 40 dysregulated proteins in the EA vs. MCAO/R group were related to brain and nerve development. Protein–protein interaction analysis of the abovementioned dysregulated proteins associated with brain and nerve development suggested that Pten/Akt pathway-related proteins might play major roles in regulating EA-mediated protective effects against MCAO/R-induced brain and nerve injury. Western blot assays demonstrated that Pak4, Akt3, and Efnb2 were expressed at low levels in the MCAO/R group vs. the sham group but at high levels in the EA group vs. the MCAO/R group. In conclusion, multiple proteins related to the protective effect of EA at the GV20 and GV24 acupoints against CIRI were identified in our study.

miRNA Involvement in Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury

Cerebral ischemia reperfusion injury is a debilitating medical condition, currently with only a limited amount of therapies aimed at protecting the cerebral parenchyma. Micro RNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNA molecules that via the RNA-induced silencing complex either degrade or prevent target messenger RNAs from being translated and thus, can modulate the synthesis of target proteins. In the neurological field, miRNAs have been evaluated as potential regulators in brain development processes and pathological events. Following ischemic hypoxic stress, the cellular and molecular events initiated dysregulate different miRNAs, responsible for long-terming progression and extension of neuronal damage. Because of their ability to regulate the synthesis of target proteins, miRNAs emerge as a possible therapeutic strategy in limiting the neuronal damage following a cerebral ischemic event. This review aims to summarize the recent literature evidence of the miRNAs involved in signaling and modulating cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injuries, thus pointing their potential in limiting neuronal damage and repair mechanisms. An in-depth overview of the molecular pathways involved in ischemia reperfusion injury and the involvement of specific miRNAs, could provide future perspectives in the development of neuroprotective agents targeting these specific miRNAs.

The Impact of General Anesthesia on Redox Stability and Epigenetic Inflammation Pathways: Crosstalk on Perioperative Antioxidant Therapy

Worldwide, the prevalence of surgery under general anesthesia has significantly increased, both because of modern anesthetic and pain-control techniques and because of better diagnosis and the increased complexity of surgical techniques. Apart from developing new concepts in the surgical field, researchers and clinicians are now working on minimizing the impact of surgical trauma and offering minimal invasive procedures due to the recent discoveries in the field of cellular and molecular mechanisms that have revealed a systemic inflammatory and pro-oxidative impact not only in the perioperative period but also in the long term, contributing to more difficult recovery, increased morbidity and mortality, and a negative financial impact. Detailed molecular and cellular analysis has shown an overproduction of inflammatory and pro-oxidative species, responsible for augmenting the systemic inflammatory status and making postoperative recovery more difficult. Moreover, there are a series of changes in certain epigenetic structures, the most important being the microRNAs. This review describes the most important molecular and cellular mechanisms that impact the surgical patient undergoing general anesthesia, and it presents a series of antioxidant therapies that can reduce systemic inflammation.

Naoluo Xintong Decoction in the Treatment of Ischemic Stroke: A Network Analysis of the Mechanism of Action

The mechanism of action of Naoluo Xintong decoction (NLXTD) for the treatment of ischemic stroke (IS) is unknown. We used network analysis and molecular docking techniques to verify the potential mechanism of action of NLXTD in treating IS. The main active components of NLXTD were obtained from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP) database, and IS targets were collected from the Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM), GeneCards, and Drugbank databases; their intersection was taken. In addition, Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analyses were performed and used to build protein-protein interaction networks. AutoDock Vina software was used for molecular docking, and animal experiments were conducted to verify the results. Hematoxylin and eosin staining was used to observe the brain morphology of rats in each group, and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was used to detect the expression level of relative mRNA in the brain tissue of rats. Western blot was used to detect the expression level of relative protein in the brain tissue of rats. Network analysis and molecular docking results showed that CASP3, NOS3, VEGFA, TNF, PTGS2, and TP53 are important potential targets for NLXTD in the treatment of IS. RT-qPCR and western blot results showed that NLXTD inhibited the expression of CASP3, TNF, PTGS2, and TP53 and promoted the expression of VEGFA and NOS3. NLXTD treats IS by modulating pathways and targets associated with inflammation and apoptosis in a multicomponent, multitarget manner.

Neuronal Death Mechanisms and Therapeutic Strategy in Ischemic Stroke

Ischemic stroke caused by intracranial vascular occlusion has become increasingly prevalent with considerable mortality and disability, which gravely burdens the global economy. Current relatively effective clinical treatments are limited to intravenous alteplase and thrombectomy. Even so, patients still benefit little due to the short therapeutic window and the risk of ischemia/reperfusion injury. It is therefore urgent to figure out the neuronal death mechanisms following ischemic stroke in order to develop new neuroprotective strategies. Regarding the pathogenesis, multiple pathological events trigger the activation of cell death pathways. Particular attention should be devoted to excitotoxicity, oxidative stress, and inflammatory responses. Thus, in this article, we first review the principal mechanisms underlying neuronal death mediated by these significant events, such as intrinsic and extrinsic apoptosis, ferroptosis, parthanatos, pyroptosis, necroptosis, and autophagic cell death. Then, we further discuss the possibility of interventions targeting these pathological events and summarize the present pharmacological achievements.

MiR‐130a‐3p regulates neural stem cell differentiation in vitro by targeting Acsl4

In the adult mammalian brain, neural stem cells (NSCs) are the precursor cells of neurons that contribute to nervous system development, regeneration, and repair. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non‐coding RNAs that regulate cell fate determination and differentiation by negatively regulating gene expression. Here, we identified a post‐transcriptional mechanism, centred around miR‐130a‐3p that regulated NSC differentiation. Importantly, overexpressing miR‐130a‐3p promoted NSC differentiation into neurons, whereas inhibiting miR‐130a‐3p function reduced the number of neurons. Then, the quantitative PCR, Western blot and dual‐luciferase reporter assays showed that miR‐130a‐3p negatively regulated acyl‐CoA synthetase long‐chain family member 4 (Acsl4) expression. Additionally, inhibition of Acsl4 promoted NSC differentiation into neurons, whereas silencing miR‐130a‐3p partially suppressed the neuronal differentiation induced by inhibiting Acsl4. Furthermore, overexpressing miR‐130a‐3p or inhibiting Acsl4 increased the levels of p‐AKT, p‐GSK‐3β and PI3K. In conclusion, our results suggested that miR‐130a‐3p targeted Acsl4 to promote neuronal differentiation of NSCs via regulating the Akt/PI3K pathway. These findings may help to develop strategies for stem cell‐mediated treatment for central nervous system diseases.

In Silico Identification and Mechanism Exploration of Active Ingredients against Stroke from An-Gong-Niu-Huang-Wan (AGNHW) Formula

An-Gong-Niu-Huang-Wan (AGNHW) is a well-known formula for treating cerebrovascular diseases, with roles including clearing away heat, detoxification, and wake-up consciousness. In recent years, AGNHW has been commonly used for the treatment of ischemic stroke, but the mechanism by which AGNHW relieves stroke has not been clearly elucidated. In the current study, we developed a multiple systems pharmacology-based framework to identify the potential antistroke ingredients in AGNHW and explore the underlying mechanisms of action (MOA) of AGNHW against stroke from a holistic perspective. Specifically, we performed a network-based method to identify the potential antistroke ingredients in AGNHW by integrating the drug-target network and stroke-associated genes. Furthermore, the oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) model was used to validate the anti-inflammatory effects of the key ingredients by determining the levels of inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α. The antiapoptotic effects of the key ingredients were also confirmed in vitro. Integrated pathway analysis of AGNHW revealed that it might regulate three biological signaling pathways, including IL-17, TNF, and PI3K-AKT, to play a protective role in stroke. Moreover, 30 key antistroke ingredients in AGNHW were identified via network-based in silico prediction and were confirmed to have known neuroprotective effects. After drug-like property evaluation and pharmacological validation in vitro, scutellarein (SCU) and caprylic acid (CA) were selected for further antistroke investigation. Finally, systems pharmacology-based analysis of CA and SCU indicated that they might exert antistroke effects via the apoptotic signaling pathway and inflammatory response, which was further validated in an in vitro stroke model. Overall, the current study proposes an integrative systems pharmacology approach to identify antistroke ingredients and demonstrate the underlying pharmacological MOA of AGNHW in stroke, which provides an alternative strategy to investigate novel traditional Chinese medicine formulas for complex diseases.

Role of Forkhead Box Protein O1 (FoxO1) in Stroke: A Literature Review

Stroke is one of the most prevalent causes of death around the world. When a stroke occurs, many cellular signaling cascades and regulators are activated, which results in severe cellular dysfunction and debilitating long-term disability. One crucial regulator of cell fate and function is mammalian Forkhead box protein O1 (FoxO1). Many studies have found FoxO1 to be implicated in many cellular processes, including regulating gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis. During a stroke, modifications of FoxO1 have been linked to a variety of functions, such as inducing cell death and inflammation, inhibiting oxidative injury, affecting the blood brain barrier (BBB), and regulating hepatic gluconeogenesis. For these functions of FoxO1, different measures and treatments were applied to FoxO1 after ischemia. However, the subtle mechanisms of post-transcriptional modification and the role of FoxO1 are still elusive and even contradictory in the development of stroke. The determination of these mechanisms will lead to further enlightenment for FoxO1 signal transduction and the identification of targeted drugs. The regulation and function of FoxO1 may provide an important way for the prevention and treatment of diseases. Overall, the functions of FoxO1 are multifactorial, and this paper will summarize all of the significant pathways in which FoxO1 plays an important role during stroke damage and recovery.

Non-Coding RNA Regulatory Network in Ischemic Stroke

Stroke is a worldwide public health problem that has caused a substantial economic burden to families and society. Despite recent major advances, there is still a need for more timely, effective diagnosis and treatment methods for acute ischemic stroke. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), which widely exist in the human body, do not encode proteins. Instead, these mediate various cellular processes as functional regulatory molecules from the RNA level. Each ncRNA node in organisms is not isolated but constitutes a complex regulatory network, regulating multiple molecular targets and triggering specific physiological or pathological reactions, leading to different outcomes. Abundant studies have proclaimed the impact of ncRNAs in ischemic stroke, which may enlighten new inspirations for diagnosing and treating ischemic stroke. This paper outlines the current understanding of the ncRNA regulatory network and reviews the recent evidence for the contribution of ncRNAs in the experimental ischemic stroke model.

Oxidative stress and regeneration

Regeneration is the process of replacing/restoring a damaged cell/tissue/organ to its full function and is limited respecting complexity of specific organ structures and the level of differentiation of the cells. Unlike physiological cell turnover, this tissue replacement form is activated upon pathological stimuli such as injury and/or disease that usually involves inflammatory response. To which extent will tissue repair itself depends on many factors and involves different mechanisms. Oxidative stress is one of them, either acute, as in case of traumatic brin injury or chronic, as in case of neurodegeneration, oxidative stress within brain involves lipid peroxidation, which generates reactive aldehydes, such as 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE). While 4-HNE is certainly neurotoxic and causes disruption of the blood brain barrier in case of severe injuries, it is also physiologically produced by glial cells, especially astrocytes, but its physiological roles within CNS are not understood. Because 4-HNE can regulate the response of the other cells in the body to stress, enhance their antioxidant capacities, proliferation and differentiation, we could assume that it may also have some beneficial role for neuroregeneration. Therefore, future studies on the relevance of 4-HNE for the interaction between neuronal cells, notably stem cells and reactive astrocytes might reveal novel options to better monitor and treat consequences or brain injuries, neurodegeneration and regeneration.

Knockdown of circ_0007290 alleviates oxygen-glucose deprivation-induced neuronal injury by regulating miR-496/PDCD4 axis

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are highly enriched in the brain and involved in many types of central nervous system pathologies. Herein, this study aimed to investigate the role and mechanism of circ_0007290 in ischemic stroke. The oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) model was established with the HCN-2 cells in vitro. Levels of genes and proteins was detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blot. In vitro experiments were conducted using cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, EdU (5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine) assay, flow cytometry and ELISA, respectively. The levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were measured using the commercial kit. RNA pull-down and dual-luciferase reporter assay were used to identify the target relationship between miR-496 and circ_0007290 or PDCD4 (programmed cell death protein 4). Circ_0007290 expression was elevated in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients and OGD-induced cell injury model. OGD stimulation induced neuronal apoptosis, promoted LDH release, and enhanced inflammation in HCN-2 cells, which all were reversed by the knockdown of circ_0007290. Mechanistically, circ_0007290 served as a sponge for miR-496 to relieve the repression of miR-496 on the expression of its target PDCD4. Moreover, miR-496 inhibition or PDCD4 overexpression abolished the inhibitory effects of circ_0007290 knockdown OGD-evoked neuronal injury. Knockdown of circ_0007290 alleviated OGD-induced neuronal injury by regulating miR-496/PDCD4 axis, providing a novel insight into the pathology of ischemic stroke.

MicroRNA-130a attenuates cardiac fibrosis after myocardial infarction through TGF-β/Smad signaling by directly targeting TGF-β receptor 1

Cardiac fibrosis is a common pathophysiological change associated with myocardial infarction (MI), and while there is evidence that miR-130a plays an important role in a variety of fibrotic diseases, its role in the cardiac fibrosis during MI is unclear. Our study aimed to assess miR-130a’s ability to modulate cardiac fibrosis post-MI and uncover its potential molecular mechanisms. miR-130a was significantly downregulated in infarcted myocardium and hypoxic cardiac fibroblasts (CFs), whereas TGF-β, α-SMA, collagen 1 (Col-1), and TGF-β receptor 1 (TGFBR1) were upregulated. We transfected mice with AAV-9 carrying miR-130a and found that miR-130a overexpression statistically improved cardiac function and reduced the area of cardiac fibrosis in mice post-MI. Eukaryotic transcriptome sequencing and dual-luciferase reporter assay results verified that Tgfbr1 was a target gene of miR-130a. miR-130a inhibition heightened Col-1, α-SMA, and TGFBR1 expressions and Smad3 phosphorylation levels in CFs; however, these increments were suppressed by the overexpression of miR-130a. Meanwhile, co-transfection with TGFBR1 weakened miR-130a’s ability to inhibit α-SMA and Col-1 expression. These findings suggest that miR-130a exerts antifibrotic properties by directly targeting TGFBR1 to regulate TGF-β/Smad signaling and inhibit the conversion of CFs to myofibroblasts. Thus, miR-130a is a promising therapeutic target for alleviating cardiac fibrosis.

miR-197 Participates in Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Cardiomyocyte Injury by Modulating SIRT1

Sepsis is a systemic inflammation and is capable of inducing myocarditis, which is a major leading cause of death in patients. Studies have found that miR-197 is correlated with the prognosis of patients with inflammatory heart disease, but its effect on sepsis-induced cardiomyocyte injury remains unclear. We treated H9c2 cells with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), then detected the cell viability via the cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay and quantified miR-197 expression via quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Then, we investigated the role of miR-197 in LPS-induced H9c2 cells by CCK-8 assay, flow cytometry, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) measurement, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), qRT-PCR, and western blot. Subsequently, silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1) was downregulated in H9c2 cells to explore its interaction with miR-197 under LPS induction. LPS induced miR-197 overexpression in H9c2 cells. LPS restrained viability, the expressions of B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) and SIRT1, but promoted apoptosis, LDH release, and levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), acetyl (AC)-p53, BCL2-associated X (Bax), and cleaved caspase-3 in H9c2 cells. miR-197 inhibition reversed the effects of LPS on H9c2 cells. The protective role of miR-197 downregulation in LPS-induced H9c2 cells was reversed by SIRT1 silencing. miR-197 contributed to LPS-induced cardiomyocyte injury by modulating SIRT1, which might be used as a molecular marker in the management of sepsis.

MiR-1224 downregulation inhibits OGD/R-induced hippocampal neuron apoptosis through targeting Ku protein

Ischemic cerebrovascular disease is the main cause of disability due to stroke. This study aimed to investigate the function of miR-1224 in OGD/R-induced hippocampal neuron apoptosis, as well as the regulatory mechanism of miR-1224 in ischemic cerebrovascular disease. The oxygen-glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R) model of primary mouse hippocampal neurons was established. RT-qPCR detected miR-1224, Ku70 and Ku86 levels. Western blotting was applied to measure the expression of Ku70/86 and apoptosis related proteins. Flow cytometry was used to assess apoptosis. JC-1 fluorescence was performed to test the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) in neurons. The double luciferase reporter assay was performed to investigate the relationship between miR-1224 and Ku70/86. OGD/R induced the apoptosis and mitochondrial injury in neuronal cells, while miR-1224 downregulation or Ku70/86 upregulation reversed this phenomenon. Meanwhile, miR-1224 negatively regulated the expression of Ku70/86 in neuronal cells through directly targeting Ku70/86. Furthermore, knockdown of Ku70/86 significantly reversed the inhibitory effect of miR-1224 silencing on apoptosis and mitochondrial injury in OGD/R-treated neuronal cells. Our findings indicated that miR-1224 downregulation suppressed OGD/R-induced hippocampal neuron apoptosis by targeting Ku protein, suggesting that miR-1224 could serve as a new target for ischemic cerebrovascular disease treatment.

MiR-107 Aggravates Oxygen-Glucose Deprivation/Reoxygenation (OGD/R)-Induced Injury Through Inactivating PI3K-AKT Signalling Pathway by Targeting FGF9/FGF12 in PC12 Cells

OBJECTIVES

The aberrant expression of miR-107 has been confirmed in some neurological diseases, including ischemic stroke (IS). However, the function of miR-107 and underlying mechanisms are ambiguous.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Oxygen-Glucose Deprivation/Reoxygenation (OGD/R)-induced PC12 cells were used to mimic IS condition. MiR-107 expression and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) responding to IS were analyzed by GSE97532 and GSE61616 datasets, respectively. The target genes of miR-107 were predicted by TargetScan and confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter assay. Cell counting kit-8 and apoptosis assays were conducted to explore the role of miR-107 in biological behaviors of OGD/R-induced PC12 cells.

RESULTS

Bioinformatics analysis revealed that miR-107 expression was elevated in rats with middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO), which was confirmed in OGD/R-treated PC12 cells. Notably, miR-107 strongly inhibited the proliferation of OGD/R-treated PC12 cells. As most DEGs were enriched in PI3K-AKT signaling pathway, which was critical for IS, DEGs in this pathway was compared with the down-regulated genes and the predicted genes to obtain potential target genes of miR-107, and ultimately fibroblast growth factor (FGF)9 and FGF12 stood out. The experiments demonstrated that miR-107 inhibited viability and promoted apoptosis of OGD/R-treated PC12 cells by down-regulating FGF9/FGF12 level. Mechanically, for the first time, we clarified the mechanism via which miR-107 inactivated PI3K-AKT signaling pathway by targeting FGF9/FGF12.

CONCLUSIONS

We summarized that miR-107 aggravates OGD/R-induced injury through inactivating PI3K-AKT signaling pathway via targeting FGF9/FGF12. Therefore, our study elucidates the neurotoxicity of miR-107 in IS development and provides a new promising therapy strategy for IS.

Liraglutide Improves Cognitive and Neuronal Function in 3-NP Rat Model of Huntington's Disease

Huntington’s disease (HD) is an autosomal dominant inherited neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive motor, psychiatric, and cognitive abnormalities. The antidiabetic drug liraglutide possesses a neuroprotective potential against several neurodegenerative disorders; however, its role in Huntington’s disease (HD) and the possible mechanisms/trajectories remain elusive, which is the aim of this work. Liraglutide (200 μg/kg, s.c) was administered to rats intoxicated with 3-nitropropionic acid (3-NP) for 4 weeks post HD model induction. Liraglutide abated the 3-NP-induced neurobehavioral deficits (open field and elevated plus maze tests) and histopathological changes. Liraglutide downregulated the striatal mRNA expression of HSP 27, PBR, and GFAP, while it upregulated that of DARPP32. On the molecular level, liraglutide enhanced striatal miR-130a gene expression and TrKB protein expression and its ligand BDNF, while it reduced the striatal protein content and mRNA expression of the death receptors sortilin and p75NTR, respectively. It enhanced the neuroprotective molecules cAMP, p-PI3K, p-Akt, and p-CREB, besides modulating the p-GSK-3β/p-β-catenin axis. Liraglutide enhanced the antioxidant transcription factor Nrf2, abrogated TBARS, upregulated both Bcl2 and Bcl-XL, and downregulated Bax along with decreasing caspase-3 activity. Therefore, liraglutide exerts a neurotherapeutic effect on 3-NP-treated rats that is, besides the upturn of behavioral and structural findings, it at least partially, increased miR-130a and modulated PI3K/Akt/CREB/BDNF/TrKB, sortilin, and p75NTR, and Akt/GSK-3β/p-β-catenin trajectories besides its capacity to decrease apoptosis and oxidative stress, as well as its neurotrophic activity.

Senkyunolide H protects PC12 cells from OGD/R-induced injury via cAMP-PI3K/AKT signaling pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Senkyunolide H (SNH) is a bioactive phthalide isolated from Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort rhizome and was reported to have multiple pharmacological effects.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The study was performed to verify the potency of SNH protecting PC12 cells from oxygen glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R)-induced injury and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

OGD/R model was established in PC12 cells and the cell viability was measured by MTT assay. The cell morphology was observed using scanning electron microscope (SEM). The potential targets of SNH and related targets of OGD/R were screened, and a merged protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of SNH and OGD/R was constructed based on the network pharmacology analysis. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database was used for pathway analysis. Intracellular cAMP level and the protein expression levels were measured to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

RESULTS

SNH pretreatment protected PC12 cells against OGD/R-induced cell death. SNH also significantly protected the cell protrusion. A merged PPI network was constructed and the shared candidate targets significantly enriched in cAMP signaling pathway. The level of intracellular cAMP and the protein level of p-CREB, p-AKT, p-PDK1 and PKA protein were up-regulated after the treatment of SNH compared with OGD/R modeling.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study indicated that SNH protected PC12 cells from OGD/R-induced injury via cAMP-PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.

CircFUNDC1 knockdown alleviates oxygen-glucose deprivation-induced human brain microvascular endothelial cell injuries by inhibiting PTEN via miR-375

BACKGROUND

The maintenance of human brain microvascular endothelial cell (HBMEC) function is crucial to improve the outcomes of ischemic stroke (IS). Emerging evidence shows that circular RNAs (circRNAs) are involved in IS progression. This study aimed to investigate the role of circRNA FUN14 domain containing 1 (circFUNDC1) in oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD)-treated HBMECs.

METHODS

The expression of circFUNDC1, miR-375 and phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) mRNA was detected by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). Cell viability, apoptosis, migration and angiogenesis were determined by CCK-8 assay, flow cytometry assay, transwell assay and tube formation assay. The protein level of PTEN was detected by western blot. The relationship between miR-375 and circFUNDC1 or PTEN was confirmed by pull-down assay, dual-luciferase reporter assay and RIP assay. Exosomes were identified by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA).

RESULTS

CircFUNDC1 expression was increased in peripheral blood of IS patients and OGD-treated HBMECs. CircFUNDC1 knockdown alleviated OGD-induced cell apoptosis and promoted OGD-blocked cell viability, migration and angiogenesis of HBMECs. MiR-375 was a target of circFUNDC1, and miR-375 restoration played similar effects with circFUNDC1 knockdown. The inhibition of miR-375 reversed the effects of circFUNDC1 knockdown. In addition, PTEN was a downstream target of miR-375, and PTEN overexpression abolished the effects of miR-375 restoration. The expression of circFUNDC1 was elevated in serum-derived exosomes of IS patients, and circFUNDC1 harbored diagnostic values.

CONCLUSION

CircFUNDC1 knockdown alleviates OGD-induced HBMECs injuries by inhibiting PTEN via enriching miR-375.

MicroRNA-32-5p attenuates cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injuries by modulating the phosphatase and tensin homologous protein

Non-coding RNAs have recently attracted much attention with the potential in the treatment of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injuries. In this study, we investigated the role of miR-32-5p in cerebral I/R injuries by using oxygen-glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R) PC12 cells and middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/R) rats. The expression of genes and proteins were detected by RT-qPCR and Western blot, respectively. The function of OGD/R PC12 cells was detected using MTT assay and flow cytometry analysis. The influences of MCAO/R on rats was evaluated by measuring the infarct volume and brain water content. Bioinformatics analysis and luciferase gene reporter assay were used to identify the relationship between miR-32-5p and PTEN. The results showed that miR-32-5p had neuroprotective effects on OGD/R induced PC12 cells and MCAO/R injured rats' brain. The level of miR-32-5p was significantly reduced after OGD/R. Overexpression of miR-32-5p significantly reduced MCAO/R-induced brain damages in rats. Moreover, PTEN was found to be a target of miR-32-5p, and overexpression of PTEN attenuated the effects of miR-32-5p overexpression on cerebral I/R injuries. In addition, miR-32-5p was able to activate PI3K/AKT signaling by inhibiting PTEN. In conclusion, miR-32-5p prevents brain I/R injuries through modulating PTEN/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.

Long non-coding RNA LOC366613 alleviates the cerebral ischemic injury via regulating the miR-532-5p/phosphatase and tensin homolog axis

Cerebral infarction (CI) has become a leading cause of death in China. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are intensively involved in the progression of CI. Here, we aimed to investigate the effects of lncRNA LOC366613 (LOC366613) on cerebral I/R injury, as well as its possible mechanism. Transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) was used to establish a mouse model of cerebral I/R, and the PC12 cell line was used to establish an in vitro oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) injury model. The MTT assay was used to determine cell viability, and qRT-PCR was used to determine RNA levels. Western blotting was conducted to detect protein expression levels. The TUNEL assay and flow cytometry were used to measure cell apoptosis, and 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) was used to determine cerebral infarct volume. Finally, RNA pull-down and luciferase activity assays were used to examine interactions between miR-532-5p and LOC366613, as well as between miR-532-5p and phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN). LOC366613 was overexpressed in patients with cerebral I/R injury. In PC12 cells, knockdown of LOC366613 reduced the apoptosis rate and lactic acid dehydrogenase (LDH) expression, while increasing cell viability. Moreover, miR-532-5p was shown to be a target of LOC366613, as predicted. Downregulation of miR-532-5p reversed the effects of LOC366613 knockdown on PC12 cell apoptosis, LDH release, and cell viability. Finally, PTEN was verified as a target of miR-532-5p. LOC366613 participates in cerebral I/R injury by regulating the miR-532-5p/PTEN axis, potentially providing a new CI treatment target.

Longitudinal change in microRNA-130a expression and its correlation with the risk of developing major adverse cardiovascular and cerebral events in patients undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis

BACKGROUND

MicroRNA-130a (miR-130a) regulates angio-cellular dysregulation, atherosclerosis, and cardiocerebral injuries, serving as a biomarker for major adverse cardiovascular and cerebral events (MACCE) in several chronic diseases. However, its clinical application in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD), who are at a high risk of developing MACCE, has not been reported. Therefore, this study aimed to explore this aspect.

METHODS

miR-130a expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells obtained from 50 healthy controls (HCs) at recruitment and 257 ESRD patients undergoing CAPD at month (M)0, M12, M24, and M36 was determined by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. ESRD patients undergoing CAPD were followed up until MACCE occurred or M36. Then, MACCE were recorded, and MACCE-free survival was calculated.

RESULTS

miR-130a expression was significantly lower in ESRD patients undergoing CAPD than in HCs (p < 0.001). In addition, miR-130a expression significantly decreased from M0 to M36 in ESRD patients undergoing CAPD (p < 0.001). Moreover, miR-130a expression at M0, M12, and M24 was significantly lower in patients with MACCE than in those without MACCE (all p < 0.05). Furthermore, high miR-130a expression at M0, M12, and M36 was significantly correlated with prolonged MACCE-free survival in ESRD patients undergoing CAPD (all p < 0.05), and high miR-130a expression at M0 was an independent factor for improved MACCE-free survival (p = 0.015; hazard ratio (HR) (95% confidential interval): 0.456 (0.243-0.857)).

CONCLUSION

miR-130a expression decreases continuously with disease progression in patients with ESRD undergoing CAPD. Additionally, this expression is negatively correlated with MACCE risk in these patients.

Exosomal microRNA-125a-3p from human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells promotes angiogenesis of wound healing through inhibiting PTEN

Angiogenesis plays a key in the process of tissue repair and wound healing. Human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (HADSCs) have been found to act a promotion role during angiogenesis. Moreover, miR-125a-3p in HADSCs could promote the angiogenesis of HUVECs, but their specific mechanism in wound healing needs further study. Western blotting and qRT-PCR were used for detecting the protein and mRNA level, respectively. Exosomes were isolated successfully, and transmission electron microscope was used to identify exosomes. Angiogenesis, cell migration, and proliferation were detected with tube formation, wound healing, and MTT assays. The interactions of miR-125a-3p and PTEN were validated using dual-luciferase reporter assay. Animal model was used to evaluate the effect of miR-125a-3p on wound healing. HADSCs-exosome remarkably promoted the viability, migration, and angiogenesis of HUVECs. Knockdown of miR-125a-3p in HADSCs could inhibit the effect of HADSCs-exosome, while overexpression of miR-125a-3p could further promote the effect of HADSCs-exosome on HUVECs. MiR-125a-3p from HADSCs-exosome inhibited the expression of PTEN in HUVECs. Knockdown of PTEN promoted the viability, migration, and angiogenesis of HUVECs and reversed the effect of miR-125a-3p knockdown on HUVECs. Finally, miR-125a-3p from HADSCs-exosome could promote wound healing and angiogenesis in mice by inhibiting PTEN in mice wound granulation tissues. MiR-125a-3p from the HADSCs-exosome promoted the wound healing and angiogenesis, and these effects were achieved through regulating PTEN. This study may provide a new thought for the treatment and prevention of tissue repair.

MiR-499a prevents astrocytes mediated inflammation in ischemic stroke by targeting PTEN

INTRODUCTION

Ischemic stroke (IS) is a common and severe neurological disorder and is associated with high rates of mortality and morbidity. Inflammatory reaction in astrocytes is one of the important pathological factors of stroke. Improved understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms should aid better treatment of the disease. This study aimed to test our hypothesis that a miR-499a played an important role in the inflammatory response in astrocytes induced by IS targeting phosphatase and tensin homologue deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN).

METHODS

This study was comprised of two models: oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) and reoxygenation model. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and Western blot were used to examine gene expression levels, and MTT assay analysis were used to examine cell states. The relationships between miR-499a and PTEN were confirmed by luciferase reporter assay.

RESULTS

MiR-499a was robustly downregulated with OGD induced injury in astrocytes. Forced transient expression of miR-499a in OGD astrocytes nearly completely reversed the inflammatory response. Knockdown of miR-499a by its specific inhibitor in healthy astrocytes induced the inflammatory response resembling those produced by OGD. On the other hand, PTEN was markedly upregulated in OGD astrocytes, which was reciprocal to the expression of miR-499a. PTEN was experimentally validated as a direct target gene for miR-499a. Overexpression of PTEN was able to induce an inflammatory response of astrocytes. Moreover, PTEN siRNA counteracted the inflammatory response induced by OGD.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, our findings indicate miR-499a as an important factor to prevent inflammatory response and suggest miR-499a as a new molecule for the treatment of IS. The present study also demonstrated the relationship between miR-499a and PTEN, with PTEN as a downstream signaling mediator of miR-499a in the inflammatory response of astrocytes induced by IS.

miR-129 Attenuates Myocardial Ischemia Reperfusion Injury by Regulating the Expression of PTEN in Rats

PTEN/AKT signaling plays pivotal role in myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury (MIRI), and miRNAs are involved in the regulation of AKT signaling. This study was designed to investigate the interaction between miR-129 and PTEN in MIRI. A MIRI rat model and a hypoxia reoxygenation (H/R) H9C2 cell model were constructed to simulate myocardial infarction clinically. TTC staining, creatine kinase (CK) activity, TUNEL/Hoechst double staining, Hoechst staining and flow cytometer were used for evaluating myocardial infarction or cell apoptosis. miR-129 mimic transfection experiment and luciferase reporter gene assay were conducted for investigating the function of miR-129 and the interaction between miR-129 and PTEN, respectively. Real-time PCR and western blotting were performed to analyze the gene expression. Compared to the control, MIRI rats presented obvious myocardial infarction, higher CK activity, increased expression of caspase-3 and PTEN, decreased expression of miR-129, and insufficient AKT phosphorylation. Consistently, H/R significantly increased the apoptosis of H9C2 cells, concomitant with the downregulation of miR-129, upregulation of PTEN and caspase-3, and insufficient phosphorylation of AKT, while miR-129 mimic obviously inhibited the expression of PTEN and caspase-3, increased the AKT phosphorylation, and decreased the cell apoptosis. Additionally, miR-129 mimic obviously decreased the relative luciferase activity in H9C2 cells. To our best knowledge, this study firstly found that the low expression of miR-129 accelerates the myocardial cell apoptosis by directly targeting 3'UTR of PTEN. miR-129 is an important biomarker for MIRI, as well as a potential therapy target.

Suppression of miR-130a-3p Attenuates Oxygen-Glucose Deprivation/Reoxygenation-Induced Dendritic Spine Loss by Promoting APP

BACKGROUND

Cerebral stroke induces neuronal dysfunction as a consequence of neuronal morphology changes. Emerging evidence suggests that microRNAs (miRNAs) may play an important role in regulating dysfunction in stroke, yet there are still few studies examining the association between whole blood miRNAs and neuronal morphology. The present study aimed to ascertain the potential roles and mechanisms of action of miR-130a-3p in ischemic stroke.

METHODS

The miRNA datasets of peripheral serum in the GEO database and the mRNA datasets of the human brain after ischemia were analyzed to identify differentially expressed RNAs, and their functions were verified in cultured neurons in vitro. Furthermore, the target gene was validated by dual-luciferase reporter assay, RT-PCR, Western blot, and immunofluorescence experiments. The identified miRNA was further verified by the OGD test to restore neuronal changes after ischemia through APP.

RESULTS

The expression of whole blood miR-130a-3p was found significantly lower in participants with ischemic stroke than in controls by analyzing expression profiling datasets of cerebral ischemia stroke obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) DataSets portal, which was confirmed in the MCAO model in mice. Furthermore, GO analysis showed that miR-130a-3p might directly affect neuronal function. Indeed, we demonstrated that miR-130a-3p played a central role in the inhibition of dendritic morphogenesis and in the growth of dendritic spines in vitro. We also confirmed that miR-130a-3p could regulate the expression of APP by luciferase reporter assay, RT-PCR, Western blot, and immunofluorescence experiments, which were consistent with the bioinformatic analysis. Last but not least, we also demonstrated that reducing miR-130a-3p expression partially rescued neuronal morphological changes after OGD in vitro.

CONCLUSION

miR-130a-3p is a potential biomarker of cerebral stroke, can affect neuronal morphology through APP, and promote the repair of neurons by promoting APP expression after cerebral ischemia.

Long non-coding RNA ZFAS1 exerts a protective role to alleviate oxygen and glucose deprivation-mediated injury in ischemic stroke cell model through targeting miR-186-5p/MCL1 axis

In recent years, accumulating articles have revealed that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play crucial roles in ischemic stroke (IS). A previous study found that lncRNA zinc finger antisense 1 (ZFAS1) was down-regulated in IS patients compared with healthy controls. However, the precise function of ZFAS1 in IS and its associated mechanism remain unclear. Cell viability was assessed by cell counting kit-8 (CCK8) assay. Cell apoptosis was analyzed by flow cytometry. Western blot assay and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) were conducted to measure protein and RNA expression. The interaction between microRNA-186-5p (miR-186-5p) and ZFAS1 or MCL1 apoptosis regulator, BCL2 family member (MCL1) was confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter assay, RNA-pull down assay and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay. IS cell model was established through exposing N2a cells to oxygen and glucose deprivation (OGD). OGD exposure restrained the viability and induced the apoptosis of N2a cells. OGD exposure down-regulated the expression of ZFAS1 and up-regulated the level of miR-186-5p in a time-dependent manner. ZFAS1 overexpression alleviated OGD-mediated injury in IS cell model. MiR-186-5p was identified as a direct target of ZFAS1, and OGD-induced injury in IS cell model was attenuated by the silence of miR-186-5p. MiR-186-5p interacted with the 3' untranslated region (3'UTR) of MCL1 messenger RNA (mRNA). ZFAS1 positively regulated MCL1 mRNA expression by sequestering miR-186-5p in N2a cells. ZFAS1 overexpression-mediated protective effects in IS cell model were partly overturned by the overexpression of miR-186-5p. MCL1 silencing partly counteracted the protective effects mediated by miR-186-5p silencing in IS cell model. In conclusion, ZFAS1 overexpression exerted a protective role in IS cell model to attenuate OGD-induced injury through targeting miR-186-5p/MCL1 axis. ZFAS1/miR-186-5p/MCL1 signaling might be a novel diagnostic marker and promising treatment target for IS patients.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10616-021-00481-4.

microRNA-130a-5p suppresses myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury by downregulating the HMGB2/NF-κB axis

BACKGROUND

Myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury (MIRI) is defined as tissue injury in the pathological process of progressive aggravation in ischemic myocardium after the occurrence of acute coronary artery occlusion. Research has documented the involvement of microRNAs (miRs) in MIRI. However, there is obscure information about the role of miR-130a-5p in MIRI. Herein, this study aims to investigate the effect of miR-130a-5p on MIRI.

METHODS

MIRI mouse models were established. Then, the cardiac function and hemodynamics were detected using ultrasonography and multiconductive physiological recorder. Functional assays in miR-130a-5p were adopted to test the degrees of oxidative stress, mitochondrial functions, inflammation and apoptosis. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining was performed to validate the myocardial injury in mice. Reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was employed to assess the expression patterns of miR-130a-5p, high mobility group box (HMGB)2 and NF-κB. Then, dual-luciferase reporter gene assay was performed to elucidate the targeting relation between miR-130a-5p and HMGB2.

RESULTS

Disrupted structural arrangement in MIRI mouse models was evident from HE staining. RT-qPCR revealed that overexpressed miR-130a-5p alleviated MIRI, MIRI-induced oxidative stress and mitochondrial disorder in the mice. Next, the targeting relation between miR-130a-5p and HMGB2 was ascertained. Overexpressed HMGB2 annulled the protective effects of miR-130a-5p in MIRI mice. Additionally, miR-130a-5p targets HMGB2 to downregulate the nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) axis, mitigating the inflammatory injury induced by MIRI.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrated that miR-130a-5p suppresses MIRI by down-regulating the HMGB2/NF-κB axis. This investigation may provide novel insights for development of MIRI treatments.

Therapeutic modulation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinases (PI3K) pathway in cerebral ischemic injury

The cerebral ischemic reperfusion injury may leads to morbidity and mortality in patients. phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) signaling pathway has been believed to work in association with its downstream targets, other receptors, and pathways that may offer antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic effects, neuroprotective role in neuronal excitotoxicity. This review elaborates the mechanistic interventions of the PI3K pathway in cerebral ischemic injury in context to nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) regulation, Hypoxia-inducible factor 1 signaling (HIF-1), growth factors, Endothelial NOS (eNOS) proinflammatory cytokines, Erythropoietin (EPO), Phosphatase and tensin homologous protein of chromosome 10 gene (PTEN) signaling, NF-κB/Notch signaling, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and Glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) signaling pathway. Evidences showing the activation of PI3K inhibits apoptotic pathway, which results in its neuroprotective effect in ischemic injury. Despite discussing the therapeutic role of the PI3K pathway in treating cerebral ischemic injury, the review also enlighten the selective modulation of PI3K pathway with activators and inhibitors which may provide promising results in clinical and preclinical settings.

Mechanism of Action of Xiaoyao San in Treatment of Ischemic Stroke is Related to Anti-Apoptosis and Activation of PI3K/Akt Pathway

OBJECTIVE

The traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formulation Xiaoyao San (XYS) has a good clinical effect in treating ischemic stroke (IS). We explored the mechanism and material basis of XYS in IS treatment.

METHODS

Network pharmacology was used to construct a network of XYS components and IS targets. R software was used to analyze the biological process and pathway analysis of the targets of XYS in IS treatment. In vitro, a model of apoptosis of PC12 cells induced by oxygen-glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R) was established to evaluate the neuroprotective effect of XYS and its influence on the expression of apoptotic protein-related genes. The affinity between the potentially active compounds in XYS and apoptotic proteins was evaluated by molecular docking.

RESULTS

XYS was shown to have 136 chemical components that exert potential anti-IS activity by acting on 175 proteins. Bioinformatics analysis showed that apoptosis and the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K-Akt) signaling pathway were the main signaling pathways of XYS. In vitro experiments showed that XYS could improve the effect of OGD/R on PC12-cell activity (EC50 = 0.43 mg/mL) and inhibit apoptosis. The main mechanisms were related to the improvement of oxidative stress and regulation of apoptosis-related gene expression. Molecular docking showed that C22, C102 and other components in XYS had a strong affinity with apoptosis-related proteins.

CONCLUSION

Network pharmacology, in vitro experiments, and molecular docking were used, for the first time, to study the material basis and molecular mechanism of XYS in IS treatment from the perspective of multiple targets and multiple pathways. We provided a new approach for the future study of TCM formulations in the treatment of complex diseases.

miR-221 Exerts Neuroprotective Effects in Ischemic Stroke by Inhibiting the Proinflammatory Response

BACKGROUND

Ischemic stroke is clearly affected by microRNAs (miRNAs) due to dysfunction of their regulatory networks. Our clinical data confirmed decreased miR-221 levels in plasma collected from patients with acute ischemia compared with plasma from healthy controls. Therefore, we further aimed to demonstrate the regulatory mechanisms by which miR-221 exerts its neuroprotective effects in acute ischemic brain injury.

METHODS

Middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) was used to establish focal cerebral ischemia in adult male C57BL/6 mice. A miR-221 mimic or a negative mimic control was injected by intracerebroventricular administration 24 h prior to MCAO. After 48 h, cerebral infarction volume and neurological scores were calculated, and to determine the extent of neuroprotection by miR-221, neurobehavioral tests were performed. Quantitative real-time PCR, ELISA, and flow cytometry were also performed to identify the expression of inflammation-related cytokines and chemokines as well as infiltration/activation of various immune cells in the brain.

RESULTS

The results showed that MCAO mice treated with a miR-221 mimic exhibited significantly decreased cerebral infarction volume and increased amelioration of behavioral deficits. Moreover, the expression of proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, MCP-1, VCAM-1, and IL-6) and chemokines (CCL2 and CCL3) was significantly decreased in the miR-221 mimic-treated group. In addition, the flow cytometry data showed that macrophage infiltration and microglial activation were blocked by miR-221 treatment.

CONCLUSION

our results indicate that miR-221 could decrease brain damage in the setting of acute ischemic stroke by inhibiting the proinflammatory response, which furthered our understanding of the molecular basis of miR-221 and provided a new potential therapeutic target for the treatment of ischemic stroke .

PI3K/AKT activation attenuates acute kidney injury following liver transplantation by inducing FoxO3a nuclear export and deacetylation

AIMS

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a severe complication of autologous orthotopic liver transplantation (AOLT). Apoptosis has been shown to be involved in renal ischemia/reperfusion, and the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway is involved in numerous cell processes, including promoting cell survival and inhibiting apoptosis. We aimed to verify whether the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway participates in the development of post-AOLT AKI.

METHODS

Male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent AOLT with or without treatment with insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1, a PI3K/AKT activator) and LY294002 (a PI3K/AKT inhibitor; n = 8/group). NRK-52E cells (rat renal tubular epithelial cell line) were subjected to hypoxia-re-oxygenation to mimic renal cell I/R injury in vitro, and confirm whether silencing information regulator 1 (SIRT1) mediated the protective effects of PI3K/AKT by deacetylating forkhead protein O3a (FoxO3a).

KEY FINDINGS

During the reperfusion stage, kidney injury peaked at 8 h after reperfusion, then gradually recovered, which was consistent with the dynamic changes in apoptosis and the protein expressions of Bcl-2 interacting mediator of cell death (Bim), Fas ligand (FasL), and nuclear FoxO3a AKT phosphorylation and nuclear SIRT1 protein expression were also upregulated. IGF-1 application decreased Bim, FasL, and nuclear FoxO3a protein expressions, and protected against apoptosis and AKI. In NRK-52E cells, IGF-1 upregulated nuclear SIRT1 expression, reduced FoxO3a acetylation, downregulated Bim and FasL protein expressions, and attenuated apoptosis and AKI; these effects were reversed by SIRT1 blocking.

CONCLUSION

The activation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway not only induced FoxO3a nuclear export but also deacetylation through upregulating nuclear SIRT1 expression to attenuate post-AOLT AKI.

LncRNA GAS5 Silencing Attenuates Oxygen-Glucose Deprivation/Reperfusion-Induced Injury in Brain Microvascular Endothelial Cells via miR-34b-3p-Dependent Regulation of EPHA4

BACKGROUND

The aim of our study was to explore the role of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) growth arrest-specific 5 (GAS5) in ischemic stroke using oxygen-glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R)-induced bEnd.3 cells as in vitro cell model.

METHODS

Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and Western blot assay were adopted to analyze RNA and protein expression. Cell viability and apoptosis were analyzed by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8) assay and flow cytometry. The levels of nitric oxide (NO) and endothelin-1 (ET-1) in culture supernatant were examined by their matching commercial kits. The intermolecular target interaction was predicted by starBase software and tested by dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay.

RESULTS

OGD/R-induced apoptosis and dysregulation in vascular endocrine system were largely alleviated by the knockdown of GAS5. GAS5 interacted with microRNA-34b-3p (miR-34b-3p), and GAS5 silencing protected bEnd.3 cells from OGD/R-induced injury partly through up-regulating miR-34b-3p. EPH receptor A4 (EPHA4) was a target of miR-34b-3p. GAS5 acted as the molecular sponge of miR-34b-3p to up-regulate EPHA4 in bEnd.3 cells. GAS5 interference protected against OGD/R-induced damage in bEnd.3 cells partly through down-regulating EPHA4.

CONCLUSION

LncRNA GAS5 knockdown protected brain microvascular endothelial cells bEnd.3 from OGD/R-induced injury depending on the regulation of miR-34b-3p/EPHA4 axis.

MicroRNA-9-3p Aggravates Cerebral Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury by Targeting Fibroblast Growth Factor 19 (FGF19) to Inactivate GSK-3β/Nrf2/ARE Signaling

PURPOSE

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are emerging as essential regulators in the development of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. This study aimed to explore the regulation of miR-9-3p on FGF19-GSK-3β/Nrf2/ARE signaling in cerebral I/R injury.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A mouse model with I/R injury was constructed by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) and an HT22 cell model was established by oxygen-glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R). The expression of miR-9-3p was detected by RT-qPCR. Protein expression of fibroblast growth factor 19 (FGF19), cleaved caspase-3, and GSK-3β signaling-related proteins (p-GSK-3β and Nrf2) were detected by Western blot. Cell viability was assessed by MTT assay. Oxidative stress was detected by commercial kits. The target of miR-9-3p was predicted by TargetScan and confirmed by luciferase reporter assay. The effects of miR-9-3p on GSK-3β/Nrf2/ARE signaling were assessed by rescue experiments.

RESULTS

MiR-9-3p was significantly upregulated in brain tissues of MCAO/R-treated mice and OGD/R-treated HT22 cells. Downregulation of miR-9-3p attenuated infarct volume and neurological outcomes of MCAO/R-treated mice in vivo and OGD/R-induced cell injury and oxidative stress in vitro, while overexpression of miR-9-3p showed the opposite effects. MiR-9-3p directly bound to the 3'-untranslated region of FGF19 and negatively regulated its expression. Inhibition of miR-9-3p enhanced GSK-3β/Nrf2/ARE signaling-mediated antioxidant response, while this effect was partially eliminated by FGF19 or Nrf2 silencing.

CONCLUSION

Our study suggests that inhibition of miR-9-3p protects against cerebral I/R injury through activating GSK-3β/Nrf2/ARE signaling-mediated antioxidant responses by targeting FGF19, providing a potential therapeutic target for ischemic stroke.

miR-22 protect PC12 from ischemia/reperfusion-induced injury by targeting p53 upregulated modulator of apoptosis (PUMA)

MicroRNAs have been implicated as critical regulatory molecules in many cerebrovascular diseases. Recent studies demonstrated miR-22 might provide a potential neuroprotective effect. However, the neuroprotective effect of miR-22 in ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury has not been thoroughly elucidated. In this study, the PC12 cells were subjected to 4 h oxygen and glucose deprivation (I) and 24 h reoxygenation (R). The PC12 cells were pre-transfected with miR-22 or anti-miR-22 or siRNA-mediated downregulation of p53-upregulated-modulator-of-apoptosis (PUMA)(PUMA siRNA) or their controls at 24 h prior to exposure to I/R. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and Western blot were employed to analyze mRNA and protein expression. PI and Annexin V assays and terminal deoxynucleotidyltransferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay were used to quantify the rate of apoptosis. We found that miR-22 expression was significantly downregulated in the PC12 cells subjected to I/R. Loss of function of miR-22 increased PC12 apoptosis after I/R, and overexpression of miR-22 decreases PC12 apoptosis after I/R. PUMA protein was upregulated in the I/R group as compared with the sham group. The increased PUMA protein expression and apoptosis induced by I/R was reversed by transfection with PUMA siRNA. We concluded that I/R enhanced apoptosis and PUMA expression in PC12 cells via downregulation of miR-22. Enhanced miR-22 expression reversed both PUMA expression and apoptosis induced by I/R in PC12 cells. miR-22/PUMA axis has important implications for their clinical applications.

PTEN inhibitor improves vascular remodeling and cardiac function after myocardial infarction through PI3k/Akt/VEGF signaling pathway

Background

Myocardial infarction (MI) is the leading cause of death from cardiovascular disease (CVD). Currently, the efficacy for MI treatment remains unsatisfactory. Therefore, it is urgent to develop a novel therapeutic strategy.

Methods

Left anterior descending arteries (LAD) of mice were ligated to induce MI. Another set of mice were intravenously injected with PTEN inhibitor BPV (1 mg/kg) 1 h after LAD ligation and continued to receive BPV injection daily for the following 6 days. Mice were performed echocardiography 14 days after surgery.

Results

Mice in MI group displayed an increased expression of PTEN with impaired cardiac function, enhanced cardiomyocyte apoptosis and decreased angiogenesis. BPV treatment significantly improved cardiac function, with reduced cardiomyocyte apoptosis, promoted angiogenesis, and activated PI3K/Akt/vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling pathway.

Conclusion

PTEN inhibitor BPV could effectively prevent myocardial infarction in mice, highlighting its potential as a candidate therapeutic drug.

Regulatory role of microRNAs on PTEN signaling

Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) gene encodes a tumor suppressor protein which is altered in several malignancies. This protein is a negative regulator of the PI3K/AKT signaling. Several transcription factors regulate the expression of PTEN in positive or negative directions. Moreover, numerous microRNAs (miRNAs) have functional interactions with PTEN and inhibit its expression. Suppression of PTEN can attenuate the response of cancer cells to chemotherapeutic agents. Based on the critical role of this tumor suppressor gene, the identification of negative regulators of its expression has practical significance particularly in the prevention and management of cancer. Meanwhile, the interaction between miRNAs and PTEN has functional consequences in non-malignant disorders including myocardial infarction, osteoporosis, cerebral ischemic stroke, and recurrent abortion. In the present review, we describe the role of miRNAs in the regulation of expression and activity of PTEN.