Sevoflurane prevents miR-181a-induced cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury

Sevoflurane blocks KLF5-mediated transcriptional activation of ITGB2 to inhibit macrophage infiltration in hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury

BACKGROUND

Sevoflurane (Sevo) preconditioning and postconditioning play a protective role against injury induced by hepatic ischemia/reperfusion (I/R). At the same time, the involvement of macrophage infiltration in this process and the precise mechanisms are unclear. Here, we designed this research to elucidate the protective effects of Sevo against hepatic I/R injury and the molecules involved.

METHODS

The alleviating effect of Sevo on the liver injury was analyzed by liver function analysis, hematoxylin and eosin staining, Masson trichrome staining, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated 2'-deoxyuridine 5'-triphosphate nick end labeling, western blot analysis and an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. An in vitro cell model was developed using alpha mouse liver 12 (AML12) cells, and the cell model was treated with oxygen-glucose deprivation and reoxygenation and Sevo. Multiple bioinformatics databases were used to screen transcriptional regulators related to hepatic I/R injury and the targets of Krueppel-like factor 5 (KLF5). KLF5 expression was artificially upregulated alone or with integrin beta-2 (ITGB2) knockdown to substantiate their involvement in Sevo-mediated hepatoprotection.

RESULTS

Sevo protected the liver against I/R injury by reducing cell apoptosis and inflammatory response. KLF5 was upregulated in liver tissues following I/R injury, whereas KLF5 overexpression aggravated macrophage infiltration and liver injury induced by I/R injury. KLF5 bound to the promoter of ITGB2 to enhance ITGB2 transcription. Knockdown of ITGB2 reversed the aggravation of injury caused by KLF5 overexpression in mice and AML12 cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Sevo blocked KLF5-mediated transcriptional activation of ITGB2, thereby inhibiting macrophage infiltration in hepatic I/R injury.

Research hotspots and frontiers of preconditioning in cerebral ischemia: A bibliometric analysis

Background

Preconditioning is a promising strategy against ischemic brain injury, and numerous studies in vitro and in vivo have demonstrated its neuroprotective effects. However, at present there is no bibliometric analysis of preconditioning in cerebral ischemia. Therefore, a comprehensive overview of the current status, hot spots, and emerging trends in this research field is necessary.

Materials and methods

Studies on preconditioning in cerebral ischemia from January 1999-December 2022 were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC) database. CiteSpace was used for data mining and visual analysis.

Results

A total of 1738 papers on preconditioning in cerebral ischemia were included in the study. The annual publications showed an upwards and then downwards trend but currently remain high in terms of annual publications. The US was the leading country, followed by China, the most active country in recent years. Capital Medical University published the largest number of articles. Perez-Pinzon, Miguel A contributed the most publications, while KITAGAWA K was the most cited author. The focus of the study covered three areas: (1) relevant diseases and experimental models, (2) types of preconditioning and stimuli, and (3) mechanisms of ischemic tolerance. Remote ischemic preconditioning, preconditioning of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and inflammation are the frontiers of research in this field.

Conclusion

Our study provides a visual and scientific overview of research on preconditioning in cerebral ischemia, providing valuable information and new directions for researchers.

Pro-Con Debate: Should All General Anesthesia Be Done Using Target-Controlled Propofol Infusion Guided by Objective Monitoring of Depth of Anesthesia?

In this Pro-Con commentary article, we discuss whether all general anesthesia should be done using target-controlled propofol anesthesia guided by monitoring of depth of anesthesia. This is an ongoing debate since more than 25 years, representing a scientific, cultural as well as geographical divide in the anesthesia community. The Pro side argues that total intravenous anesthesia causes less postoperative nausea and higher patient satisfaction than anesthesia using volatile anesthetics. Target-controlled infusion (TCI) of anesthetic agents allows for better titration of intravenous anesthesia using pharmacokinetic models. Processed EEG monitors, such as bispectral index monitoring, allows for better assessing the effect of TCI anesthesia than solely assessment of clinical parameters, such as ECG or blood pressure. The combination of TCI propofol and objective depth of anesthesia monitoring allows creating a pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic profile for each patient. Finally, anesthesia using volatile anesthetics poses health risks for healthcare professionals and contributes to greenhouse effect. The Con side argues that for procedures accompanied with ischemia and reperfusion injury of an organ or tissue and for patients suffering from a severe inflammation' the use of volatile anesthetics might well have its advantages above propofol. In times of sudden shortage of drugs, volatile anesthetics can overcome the restriction in the operating theater or even on the intensive care unit, which is another advantage. Volatile anesthetics can be used for induction of anesthesia when IV access is impossible, end-tidal measurements of volatile anesthetic concentration allows confirmation that patients receive anesthetics. Taking environmental considerations into account, both propofol and volatile anesthetics bear certain harm to the environment, be it as waste product or as greenhouse gases. The authors therefore suggest to carefully considering advantages and disadvantages for each patient in its according environment. A well-balanced choice based on the available literature is recommended. The authors recommend careful consideration of advantages and disadvantages of each technique when tailoring an anesthetic to meet patient needs. Where appropriate, anesthesia providers are encouraged to account for unique features of anesthetic drug behavior, patient-reported and observed postoperative outcomes, and economic and environmental considerations when choosing any of the 2 described techniques.

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.

Sevoflurane preconditioning improves neuroinflammation in cerebral ischemia/reperfusion induced rats through ROS-NLRP3 pathway

AIM

We aimed to study the influence of sevoflurane on the nucleotide-binding domain and Leucine-rich repeat protein 3 (NLRP3) pathways in rats with cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury.

METHODS

Sixty Sprague-Dawley rats were equally divided into five groups randomly: sham-operated, cerebral I/R, sevoflurane (Sevo), NLRP3 inhibitor-treated (MCC950), and sevoflurane and NLRP3 inducer-treated groups. Rats' neurological functions were assessed using Longa scoring after 24 h of reperfusion, after which they were sacrificed, and cerebral infarction area was determined by triphenyl tetrazolium chloride staining. Pathological changes in damaged portions were assessed using hematoxylin-eosin and Nissl staining, and cell apoptosis was detected by terminal-deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated nick end labeling staining. Interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-18 (IL-18), malondialdehyde (MDA), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels in brain tissues were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were analyzed using a ROS assay kit. Protein levels of NLRP3, caspase-1, and IL-1β were determined by western blot.

RESULTS

Neurological function scores, cerebral infarction areas, and neuronal apoptosis index were decreased in the Sevo and MCC950 groups than in the I/R group. IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-18, NLRP3, caspase-1, and IL-1β levels decreased in the Sevo and MCC950 groups (p < 0.05). ROS and MDA levels increased, but SOD levels increased in the Sevo and MCC950 groups than in the I/R group. NLPR3-inducer nigericin eliminated the protective effects of sevoflurane on cerebral I/R injury in rats.

CONCLUSION

Sevoflurane could alleviate cerebral I/R-induced brain damage by inhibiting the ROS-NLRP3 pathway.

Neural stem cell-derived exosome as a nano-sized carrier for BDNF delivery to a rat model of ischemic stroke

Our previous study demonstrated the potential therapeutic role of human neural stem cell-derived exosomes (hNSC-Exo) in ischemic stroke. Here, we loaded brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) into exosomes derived from NSCs to construct engineered exosomes (BDNF-hNSC-Exo) and compared their effects with those of hNSC-Exo on ischemic stroke both in vitro and in vivo. In a model of H₂O₂-induced oxidative stress in NSCs, BDNF-hNSC-Exo markedly enhanced cell survival. In a rat middle cerebral artery occlusion model, BDNF-hNSC-Exo not only inhibited the activation of microglia, but also promoted the differentiation of endogenous NSCs into neurons. These results suggest that BDNF can improve the function of NSC-derived exosomes in the treatment of ischemic stroke. Our research may support the clinical use of other neurotrophic factors for central nervous system diseases.

Transcription Factor YY1 Ameliorates Liver Ischemia-reperfusion Injury Through Modulating the miR-181a-5p/ESR1/ERBB2 Axis

BACKGROUND

Liver ischemia/reperfusion injury (I/RI) is characterized by inflammatory actions. Understanding the mechanistic insights underpinning inflammation is critical to developing treatment strategies. In this study, we illustrated the mechanistic insights of transcription factor Yin-Yang 1 (YY1)-mediated microRNA (miR)-181a-5p/estrogen receptor alpha (ESR1)/epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (ERBB2) axis in liver I/RI.

METHODS

First, we established liver I/RI models in mice and hypoxia-reperfusion (H/R) cell models in mouse hepatocytes (AML12). Subsequently, the expression of YY1, miR-181a-5p, and ESR1 was determined in the 2 models. I/RI mouse models were further injected with lentivirus carrying oe-YY1' and H/R-exposed AML12 cells were subjected to a series of inhibitors, mimics, and shRNAs to validate the mechanisms of YY1 in controlling miR-181a-5p and ESR1 in liver I/RI.

RESULTS

Upregulated expression of miR-181a-5p and downregulated expression of YY1 were identified in the liver tissues of liver I/RI mice and H/R-exposed hepatocytes. Moreover, overexpression of YY1 inhibited the miR-181a-5p expression and thus repressed the H/R-induced hepatocyte apoptosis and inflammation. ESR1 was further validated as a target gene of miR-181a-5p and could be negatively regulated by miR-181a-5p. miR-181a-5p inhibition elevated ESR1 expression, which consequently enhanced the ERBB2 expression and reduced H/R-induced hepatocyte apoptosis and inflammation.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, these findings highlighted that YY1 repressed the miR-181a-5p expression and stimulated ESR1-mediated activation of ERBB2, thereby ameliorating liver I/RI. This study provides insight into the development of novel targets for liver I/RI.

Dihydromyricetin Attenuates Cerebral Ischemia Reperfusion Injury by Inhibiting SPHK1/mTOR Signaling and Targeting Ferroptosis

Background

Dihydromyricetin (DHM) exerts protective effects in various brain diseases. The aim of this research was to investigate the biological role of DHM in cerebral ischemia reperfusion (I/R) injury.

Methods

We generated a rat model of cerebral I/R injury by performing middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/R). The neurological score and brain water content of the experimental rats was then evaluated. The infarct volume and extent of apoptosis in brain tissues was then assessed by 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium (TTC) and TdT-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining. Hippocampal neuronal cells (HT22) were subjected to oxygen-glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R) and cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assays and flow cytometry were performed to detect cell viability and apoptosis. The levels of lipid reactive oxygen species (ROS) and iron were detected and the expression levels of key proteins were assessed by Western blotting.

Results

DHM obviously reduced neurological deficits, brain water content, infarct volume and cell apoptosis in the brain tissues of MCAO/R rats. DHM repressed ferroptosis and inhibited the sphingosine kinase 1 (SPHK1)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway in MCAO/R rats. In addition, DHM promoted cell viability and repressed apoptosis in OGD/R-treated HT22 cells. DHM also suppressed the levels of lipid ROS and intracellular iron in OGD/R-treated HT22 cells. The expression levels of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) was enhanced while the levels of acyl-CoA synthetase long-chain family member 4 (ACSL4) and phosphatidylethanolamine binding protein 1 (PEBP1) were reduced in OGD/R-treated HT22 cells in the presence of DHM. Moreover, the influence conferred by DHM was abrogated by the overexpression of SPHK1 or treatment with MHY1485 (an activator of mTOR).

Conclusion

This research demonstrated that DHM repressed ferroptosis by inhibiting the SPHK1/mTOR signaling pathway, thereby alleviating cerebral I/R injury. Our findings suggest that DHM may be a candidate drug for cerebral I/R injury treatment.

Sevoflurane up-regulates miR-7a to protect against ischemic brain injury in rats by down-regulating ATG7 and reducing neuronal autophagy

The current study aimed to elucidate the effects of Sevoflurane on neuronal autophagy and ischemic brain injury by regulating miR-7a/ATG7 axis. The rat model of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) was established by thread embolization. The expression pattern of microRNA-7a (miR-7a) and autophagy-related gene 7 (ATG7) was subsequently determined in Sevoflurane-treated MCAO rats with their relation and effects on neuronal autophagy and ischemic brain injury further analyzed. Bioinformatics analysis confirmed that miR-7a could target to inhibit ATG7 in ischemic brain injury samples. Sevoflurane could alleviate ischemic brain injury in rats by reducing the level of neuronal autophagy-related factors. The expression of miR-7a was up-regulated and ATG7 was down-regulated in the brain tissues of MCAO rats after Sevoflurane treatment. ATG7 was found to induce neuronal autophagy during autophagy in the brain tissues of MCAO rats. In summary, Sevoflurane exerts protective effects on ischemic brain injury via inhibiting autophagy of neurons and microglia through the miR-7a-mediated downregulation of ATG7.

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.

Protective effects of fraxin on cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury by mediating neuroinflammation and oxidative stress through PPAR-γ/NF-κB pathway

BACKGROUND

Inflammation and oxidative stress are associated with the pathogenesis of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. Fraxin, one of the primary active ingredients of Cortex Fraxini, may have potent anti-inflammatory activity. This study intended to investigate the function and mechanism of fraxin in a middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model.

METHODS

A middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) rat model was engineered. Both in-vivo and in-vitro models were dealt with Fraxin. The profiles of inflammation-concerned cytokines, proteins and oxidative stress factors were determined by RT-PCR, western blot, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and neuronal apoptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were measured. The neurological functions of rats were evaluated by Morris water maze and modified neurological severity scores (mNSS).

RESULTS

The data revealed that fraxin abated the OGD/R-mediated release of inflammatory and oxidative stress mediators, enhanced "M2″-like BV2 microglia polarization, and mitigated HT22 cell apoptosis. Mechanistically, fraxin boosted PPAR-γ expression, activated the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, and suppressed NF-κB, IKK-β，p38 MAPK, ERK1/2 and Keap1 in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, attenuating PPAR-γ through pharmacological treatment with GW9662 (a PPAR-γ antagonist) mainly weakened the neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory functions of fraxin.

CONCLUSION

Fraxin could considerably ameliorate cerebral I/R damage by repressing oxidative stress, inflammatory response, and cell apoptosis through abrogating the PPARγ/ NF-κB pathway.

MicroRNA-27a-3p relieves inflammation and neurologic impairment after cerebral ischemia reperfusion via inhibiting LITAF and the TLR4/NF-κB pathway

Cerebral ischemia reperfusion (CIR) affects microRNA (miR) expression and causes substantial inflammation. Here, we investigated the influence and underlying mechanism of miR-27a-3p in rats with CIR. Firstly, Biliverdin treatment relieved cerebral infarction and decreased the levels of serum interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α. Through our previous study, we found key miR-27a-3p and its targeted gene LITAF might involve in the molecular mechanism of CIR. Then, the regulation between miR-27a-3p and LITAF was verified by the temporal miR-27a-3p and LITAF expression profiles and luciferase assay. Moreover, intracerebroventricular injection of the miR-27a-3p mimic significantly decreased the LITAF, TLR4, NF-κB and IL-6 levels at 24h post-surgery, whereas miR-27a-3p inhibitor reversed these effects. Furthermore, miR-27a-3p mimic could relieve cerebral infarct and neurologic deficit after CIR. In addition, injection of miR-27a-3p mimic decreased neuronal damage induced by CIR. Taken together, our results suggest that miR-27a-3p protect against CIR by relieving inflammation, neuronal damage and neurologic deficit via regulating LITAF and the TLR4/NF-κB pathway.

Sevoflurane activates MEF2D-mediated Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway via microRNA-374b-5p to affect renal ischemia/reperfusion injury

BACKGROUND

The inhaled sevoflurane (Sev) has been demonstrated to protect multiple organs against ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI). However, the mechanisms of Sev in renal IRI remain largely unknown. This study intends to explore the effect of Sev on renal IRI and the molecular mechanism behind.

METHODS

Following Sev preconditioning, a mouse model with renal IRI was established. The effects of Sev on IRI in mice were assessed by BUN, Scr, MDA and SOD kits, Western blot, HE staining, and TUNEL. Subsequently, we performed microarray analysis on renal tissues from mice with Sev to identify differentially expressed microRNAs (miRNAs). Then, the mice were treated with agomiR-374b-5p combined with Sev to observe the renal histopathology after IRI. The targeting mRNA of miR-374b-5p was verified using bioinformatics analysis and dual-luciferase assay, followed by KEGG enrichment analysis. Rescue experiments were implemented with simultaneous miR-374b-5p and MEF2D overexpression to detect renal histopathology and Wnt/β-catenin pathway activity in the mice.

RESULTS

Sev significantly reduced the levels of BUN and Scr in mouse serum, prevented cell apoptosis, decreased MDA content and increased SOD levels in renal tissues. Moreover, Sev downregulated the miR-374b-5p expression in the renal tissues. Overexpression of miR-374b-5p attenuated the protective effects of Sev on mouse renal tissues. miR-374b-5p targeted MEF2D and blocked the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Overexpression of MEF2D activated the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and attenuated the supporting effects of miR-374b-5p on renal IRI.

CONCLUSION

Sev promotes MEF2D and activates the Wnt/β-catenin pathway through inhibition of miR-374b-5p expression to affect renal IRI.

Mechanism of lncRNA SNHG16 in oxidative stress and inflammation in oxygen-glucose deprivation and reoxygenation-induced SK-N-SH cells

Cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury imposes a clinical challenge for physicians in the wake of ischemic stroke. Meanwhile, recent evidence has come to light eliciting the neuroprotective function of SNHG16 in cerebrovascular diseases. Accordingly, the current study sought to analyze the regulatory mechanism of long non-coding RNA small nucleolar RNA host gene16 (SNHG16) in oxidative stress (OS) injury and cell inflammation. Firstly, models of oxygen-glucose deprivation and reoxygenation (OGD/R) were established in SK-N-SH cells. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were appraised using cell counting kit-8 and flow cytometry. Additionally, SNHG16, X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP), microRNA (miR-421), reactive oxygen species (ROS), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), tumor necrosis factor -α, interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-10 expression patterns were determined. In addition, we determined and validated the subcellular localization of SNHG16 and the binding relationships between SNHG16 and miR-421, and miR-421 and XIAP. It was found that SNHG16 was poorly-expressed in OGD/R-treated cells. On the other hand, SNHG16 over-expression enhanced cell proliferation, inhibited apoptosis, and alleviated OS and cell inflammation. Furthermore, SNHG16 bound to miR-421 to facilitate the expression of XIAP. Up-regulation of miR-421 or down-regulation of XIAP could reverse the suppressive effects of SNHG16 on OS and cell inflammation. Collectively, our findings indicated that SNHG16 bound to miR-421 to facilitate XIAP expression, thus alleviating OS injury and inflammation in OGD/R-induced SK-N-SH cells.

Sevoflurane protects mice from cerebral ischemic injury by regulating microRNA-203-3p/HDAC4/Bcl-2 axis

Sevoflurane (Sevo) is neuroprotective in ischemic injury, but its specific mechanism in the disease from microRNA-203-3p/histone deacetylases 4/B-cell lymphoma 2 (miR-203-3p/HDAC4/Bcl-2) axis asks for a comprehensive explanation. A middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) mouse model was established by nylon suture method. miR-203-3p and HDAC4 expression was measured in mouse brain tissues. The MCAO mice were exposed to Sevo or injected with miR-203-3p- or HDAC4-related plasmids. In response to Sevo treatment or plasmid interference, neurological function, brain pathology, neuronal apoptosis and inflammation were determined. The interactions of miR-203-3p and HDAC4, and HDAC4 and Bcl-2 were verified. MCAO mice presented down-regulated miR-203-3p and up-regulated HDAC4. Sevo improved neurological function, brain pathological damage and reduced neuronal apoptosis and inflammation in MCAO mice, while overexpressing miR-203-3p further enhanced those effects. HDAC4 overexpression antagonized the impacts of miR-203-3p up-regulation on MCAO mice. The targeting relation existed between miR-203-3p and HDAC4, as well as between HDAC4 and Bcl-2. It is clearly elucidated that miR-203-3p enhances the protective effects of Sevo on MCAO mice through elevating Bcl-2 and down-regulating HDAC4, potentially and clinically offering an effective treatment method with Sevo for cerebral ischemic injury.

Sevoflurane Offers Neuroprotection in a Cerebral Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury Rat Model Through the E2F1/EZH2/TIMP2 Regulatory Axis

Cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury contributes considerably to the poor prognosis in patients with ischemic stroke. This study is aimed to delineate the molecular mechanistic actions by which sevoflurane protects against cerebral I/R injury. A rat model of cerebral I/R injury was established and pre-treated with sevoflurane, in which hippocampal neuron apoptosis was found to be repressed and the level of E2F transcription factor 1 (E2F1) was observed to be down-regulated. Then, the up-regulated expression of E2F1 was validated in rats with cerebral I/R injury, responsible for stimulated neuron apoptosis. Further, the binding of E2F1 to enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) and EZH2 to tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-2 (TIMP2) was identified. The stimulative effect of the E2F1/EZH2/TIMP2 regulatory axis on neuron apoptosis was subsequently demonstrated through functional assays. After that, it was substantiated in vivo that sevoflurane suppressed the apoptosis of hippocampal neurons in rats with cerebral I/R injury by down-regulating E2F1 to activate the EZH2/TIMP2 axis. Taken together, our data elucidated that sevoflurane reduced neuron apoptosis through mediating the E2F1/EZH2/TIMP2 regulatory axis, thus protecting rats against cerebral I/R injury.

Genome-wide analysis of circular RNAs and validation of hsa_circ_0086354 as a promising biomarker for early diagnosis of cerebral palsy

Background

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a spectrum of non-progressive motor disorders caused by brain injury during fetal or postnatal periods. Current diagnosis of CP mainly relies on neuroimaging and motor assessment. Here, we aimed to explore novel biomarkers for early diagnosis of CP.

Methods

Blood plasma from five children with CP and their healthy twin brothers/sisters was analyzed by gene microarray to screen out differentially expressed RNAs. Selected differentially expressed circular RNAs (circRNAs) were further validated using quantitative real-time PCR. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to assess the specificity and sensitivity of hsa_circ_0086354 in discriminating children with CP and healthy controls.

Results

43 up-regulated circRNAs and 2 down-regulated circRNAs were obtained by difference analysis (fold change > 2, p < 0.05), among which five circRNAs related to neuron differentiation and neurogenesis were chosen for further validation. Additional 30 pairs of children with CP and healthy controls were recruited and five selected circRNAs were further detected, showing that hsa_circ_0086354 was significantly down-regulated in CP plasma compared with control, which was highly in accord with microarray analysis. ROC curve analysis showed that the area under curve (AUC) to discriminate children with CP and healthy controls using hsa_circ_0086354 was 0.967, the sensitivity was 0.833 and the specificity was 0.966. Moreover, hsa_circ_0086354 was predicted as a competitive endogenous RNA for miR-181a, and hsa_circ_0086354 expression was negatively correlated to miR-181a expression in children with CP.

Conclusion

Hsa_circ_0086354 was significantly down-regulated in blood plasma of children with CP, which may be a novel competent biomarker for early diagnosis of CP.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12920-022-01163-6.

Sevoflurane protects against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury via microrna-30c-5p modulating homeodomain-interacting protein kinase 1

Sevoflurane (SEV) has been reported to be an effective neuroprotective agent for cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury (CIRI). However, the precise molecular mechanisms of Sev preconditioning in CIRI remain largely unknown. Therefore, CIRI model was established via middle cerebral artery occlusion method. SEV was applied before modeling. after successful modeling, lentivirus was injected into the lateral ventricle of the brain. Neurological impairment score was performed in each group, and histopathologic condition, infarct volume, apoptosis, inflammation, oxidative stress, microRNA (miR)-30 c-5p and homeodomain-interacting protein kinase 1 (HIPK1) were detected. Mouse hippocampal neuronal cell line HT22 cells were pretreated with SEV, and the in vitro model was stimulated via oxygen-glucose deprivation and reoxygenation. The corresponding plasmids were transfected, and the cell growth was detected, including inflammation and oxidative stress, etc. The targeting of miR-30 c-5p with HIPK1 was examined. The results clarified that reduced miR-30 c-5p and elevated HIPK1 were manifested in CIRI. SEV could improve CIRI and modulate the miR-30 c-5p-HIPK1 axis in vitro and in vivo, and miR-30 c-5p could target HIPK1. Depressed miR-30 c-5p could eliminate the protection of SEV in vitro and in vivo. Repression of HIPK1 reversed the effect of reduced miR-30 c-5p on CIRI. Therefore, it is concluded that SEV is available to depress CIRI via targeting HIPK1 through upregulated miR-30 c-5p.

Anesthetics mediated the immunomodulatory effects via regulation of TLR signaling

Anesthetics have been widely used in surgery and found to suppress inflammatory injury and affect the outcomes of the surgery and diseases. In contrast, anesthetics are also found to induce neuronal injury and inflammation. However, the immune-modulation mechanism of anesthetics is still not clear. Recent studies have shown that the immune-modulation of anesthetics is associated with the regulation of toll-like receptor (TLR)-mediated signaling. Moreover, the regulation of anesthetics in TLR signaling is related to modulations of non-coding RNAs (nc RNAs). Consistently, nc RNAs are mainly divided into micro RNAs (miRs) and long non-coding RNAs (lnc RNAs), which have been found to exert regulatory effects on the immune system. In this review, we summarize the immunomodulatory functions of the widely used anesthetic agents, which are associated with regulation of TLR signaling. In addition, we also focus on the roles of nc RNAs induced by anesthetics in regulations of TLR signaling.

Role of microRNA‑218‑5p in sevoflurane‑induced protective effects in hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury mice by regulating GAB2/PI3K/AKT pathway

Hepatic ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury (HIRI) often occurs following tissue resection, hemorrhagic shock or transplantation surgery. Previous investigations showed that sevoflurane (Sevo), an inhalation anesthetic, had protective properties against different organ damage in animal models including HIRI. This study is aimed to investigate the underlying mechanisms involved in the protective effects of Sevo on HIRI. The present study results showed that treatment with Sevo improved histologic damage, inflammatory response, oxidative stress and apoptosis after hepatic I/R, indicating the protective role of Sevo against liver I/R injury. Importantly, in order to determine the molecular mechanism of Sevo in HIRI, the focus of the study was on microRNA (miR) regulation. By retrieving the microarray data in the Gene Expression Omnibus dataset (GSE72315), miR-218-5p was found to be significantly downregulated by Sevo. Moreover, miR-218-5p overexpression using agomiR-218-5p reversed the protective roles of Sevo against HIRI. Furthermore, GAB2, a positive regulator of PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, was found as a target gene of miR-218-5p. It was also found that the Sevo-mediated protective effects may be dependent on the activation of GAB2/PI3K/AKT. Collectively, these data revealed that Sevo alleviated HIRI in mice by restraining apoptosis, relieving oxidative stress and inflammatory response through the miR-218-5p/GAB2/PI3K/AKT pathway, which helps in understanding the novel mechanism of the hepatic-protection of Sevo.

The protective effect of the PDE-4 inhibitor rolipram on intracerebral haemorrhage is associated with the cAMP/AMPK/SIRT1 pathway

Rolipram specifically inhibits phosphodiesterase (PDE) 4, thereby preventing inactivation of the intracellular second messenger cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). Rolipram has been shown to play a neuroprotective role in some central nervous system (CNS) diseases. However, the role of PDE4 and the potential protective effect of rolipram on the pathophysiological process of intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH) are still not entirely clear. In this study, a mouse model of ICH was established by the collagenase method. Rolipram reduced brain oedema, blood–brain barrier (BBB) leakage, neuronal apoptosis and inflammatory cytokine release and improved neurological function in our mouse model of ICH. Moreover, rolipram increased the levels of cAMP and silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1) and upregulated the phosphorylation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Furthermore, these effects of rolipram could be reversed by the SIRT1 inhibitor sirtinol. In conclusion, rolipram can play a neuroprotective role in the pathological process of ICH by activating the cAMP/AMPK/SIRT1 pathway.

Mechanism of total glucosides of paeony in hypoxia/reoxygenation-induced cardiomyocyte pyroptosis

Inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis can aggravate myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury. Total glucosides of paeony (TGP) is widely used in anti-inflammation. This study investigated the effect of TGP on pyroptosis of hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R)-induced cardiomyocytes. HL-1 cells were subjected to H/R treatment. H/R-induced cardiomyocytes were treated with TGP at different concentrations (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg). The viability of H/R-induced cardiomyocytes was measured. The levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were determined. The activity of caspase-1, the expressions of NLRP3 and GSDMD-N, and the concentrations of IL-1β and IL-18 were examined. miR-181a-5p expression in H/R cardiomyocytes was determined. The targeting relationship between miR-181a-5p and adenylate cyclase 1 (ADCY1) was verified. Functional rescue experiments were performed to verify the effect of miR-181a-5p or ADCY1 on the pyroptosis of H/R cardiomyocytes. TGP enhanced H/R-induced cardiomyocyte viability in a dose-dependent manner, reduced LDH, MDA, and ROS levels, increased SOD level, decreased caspase-1 activity, reduced NLRP3 and GSDMD-N expressions, and inhibited IL-1β and IL-18 concentrations. TGP suppressed miR-181a-5p expression in H/R cardiomyocytes. miR-181a-5p targeted ADCY1. miR-181a-5p overexpression or ADCY1 inhibition reversed the inhibitory effect of TGP on the pyroptosis of H/R cardiomyocytes. Collectively, TGP alleviated the pyroptosis of H/R cardiomyocytes via the miR-181a-5p/ADCY1 axis.

Geniposide-Loaded Liposomes for Brain Targeting: Development, Evaluation, and In Vivo Studies

Geniposide (GE) possesses excellent neuroprotective effects but with poor brain targeting and short half-life. Liposome was considered to have great potential for brain diseases. Therefore, this research aimed to develop a geniposide liposome (GE-LP) as a brain delivery system for cerebral ischemia reperfusion injury (CIRI) therapy and evaluate its characterization, pharmacokinetics, brain targeting, and neuroprotective effects in vivo. Then, a reverse-phase evaporation method was applied to develop the GE-LP and optimize the formulation. Notably, the GE-LP had suitable size, which was 223.8 nm. Subsequently, the pharmacokinetic behavior of GE solution and GE-LP in mice plasma was investigated, and the brain targeting was also researched. The results showed that GE in plasma of GE-LP displayed three folds longer distribution half-life and a higher bioavailability and brain targeting compared to GE solution. In vivo neuroprotective effects was evaluated through the middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) rat model, and GE-LP exhibited a stronger tendency in preventing the injury of CIRI, which can significantly improve neurological deficits. Overall, this study demonstrates GE-LP as a new formulation with ease of preparation, sustained release, and high brain targeting, which has significant development prospects on CIRI; this is expected to improve the efficacy of GE and reduce the frequency of administration.

Neuroprotection of sevoflurane against ischemia/reperfusion-induced brain injury through inhibiting GluN2A/GluN2B-PSD-95-MLK3 module

To investigate the role of GluN2A and GluN2B in neuroprotective effect of sevoflurane preconditioning against cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI). Rats were randomly divided into five groups as follows: control, ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) 6 h, sevoflurane preconditioning (SP), SP + amantadine, SP + NMDA. Immunoblot and immunoprecipitation were used to detect the tyrosine phosphorylation of GluN2A/GluN2B, the interaction of GluN2A/GluN2B-PSD-95-MLK3 and the expression of phosphorylation of MLK3, MKK7 and JNK3. Cresyl violet staining was employed to analyse neuronal injury in rat hippocampal CA1 subfields. Sevoflurane preconditioning inhibits the tyrosine phosphorylation of GluN2A/GluN2B, the interaction of GluN2A/GluN2B-PSD-95-MLK3 and the phosphorylation of MLK3, MKK7 and JNK3 in rat hippocampus. An N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonist amantadine reversed the MLK3-MKK7- JNK3 signal events. Such reversion was also realized by NMDA (60 and 80 nmol) and low doses of NMDA (0-40 nmol) could not change the inhibitory effect of sevoflurane preconditioning on MLK3-MKK7-JNK3 signal events. Finally, Cresyl violet staining also confirmed that low dose of NMDA reduced neuronal loss in rat hippocampal CA1 subfields. Sevoflurane preconditioning provides neuroprotection against CIRI by inhibiting NMDAR over-activation.

Blockage of miR-485-5p on Cortical Neuronal Apoptosis Induced by Oxygen and Glucose Deprivation/Reoxygenation Through Inactivating MAPK Pathway

This study is designed to explore the role of miR-485-5p in hypoxia/reoxygenation-induced neuronal injury in primary rat cortical neurons. Hypoxia/reoxygenation model was established through oxygen and glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R). RN-c cells were transfected with miR-485-5p mimics, miR-485-5p inhibitors, si-SOX6, pCNDA3.1-SOX6 or miR-485-5p + pCDNA3.1-SOX6, in which cell viability, apoptosis, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release rate were assessed. Western blot detected the protein expressions of apoptotic-related proteins (caspase3, Bcl-2, Bax) and the phosphorylated level of ERK1/2. The potential binding sites between miR-485-5p and SOX6 were predicted by STARBASE and identified using dual luciferase reporter gene assay. OGD/R-treated RN-c cell presented increases in apoptosis and LDH release rate as well as a decrease in cell viability. miR-485-5p was downregulated while SOX6 was upregulated in OGD/R-treated RN-c cells. Overexpression of miR-485-5p or SOX6 knockdown rescued cell viability and Bcl-2 expression, while attenuated apoptosis, LDH release rate, expression of SOX6 and the phosphorylated level of ERK1/2. Consistently, miR-485-5p inhibition led to the reverse pattern. Co-transfection of miR-485-5p and SOX6 reversed the protective effect of miR-485-5p on OGD/R-induced neuronal apoptosis. miR-485-5p can directly target SOX6. Together, miR-485-5p inhibited SOX6 to alleviate OGD/R-induced apoptosis. Collectively, miR-485-5p protects primary cortical neurons against hypoxia injury through downregulating SOX6 and inhibiting MAPK pathway.

Sevoflurane pretreatment regulates abnormal expression of MicroRNAs associated with spinal cord ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats

Background

Spinal cord ischemia/reperfusion injury (SCII) is one of the most serious spinal cord complications that stem from varied spine injuries or thoracoabdominal aortic surgery. Nevertheless, the molecular mechanisms underlying the SCII remain unclear.

Methods

Male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into 5 groups of sham, SCII 24 h, SCII 72 h, sevoflurane preconditioning SCII 24 h (SCII 24 h+sevo), and sevoflurane preconditioning SCII 72 h (SCII 72 h+sevo) group. We then analyzed the expression of differentially expressed micro RNAs (DEmiRNAs) in these groups and their target genes. Functional enrichment analysis of their target genes was further performed using Metascape software. The microRNA-messenger RNA-pathway (miRNA-mRNA-pathway) network and the sevoflurane-miRNA-mRNA-pathway integrative network were further constructed to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying SCII and neuroprotective effects of sevoflurane against SCII. Molecular docking was also performed to evaluate the interactions between hub targets and sevoflurane. Finally, the expression levels of miR-21-5p and its target genes [mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 3 and protein phosphatase 1 regulatory subunit 3B (MAP2K3 and PPP1R3B)] were measured using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blot analyses.

Results

We found that sevoflurane alters several miRNA expression following SCII at 24 and 72 h after reperfusion. It was shown that miR-221-3p, miR-181a-1-3p, and miR-21-5p were upregulated both at 24 and 72 h in the sevoflurane pre-treatment reperfusion groups. Functional enrichment analysis revealed that target genes for the above co-DEmiRNAs at 24 and 72 h in the SCII group with sevoflurane pretreatment participated in the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), ErbB, apoptosis, and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) signaling pathways. Both MAP2K3 and PPP1R3B were found to be common targets for sevoflurane and miRNA-mRNA-pathway (rno-miR-21-5p). It was shown that MAP2K3 regulates the MAPK signaling and the T cell receptor signaling pathways, whereas PPP1R3B regulates the ErbB signaling pathway. Molecular docking further revealed that sevoflurane strongly binds the MAP2K3 and PPP1R3B proteins. Compared to the sham group, SCII induced significant under-expression of miR-21-5p but upregulated PPP1R3B and MAP2K3 proteins; sevoflurane pretreatment increased the expression of miR-21-5p but decreased those of PPP1R3B and MAP2K3 proteins.

Conclusions

In general, sevoflurane regulates the expression of several miRNAs following SCII. In particular, sevoflurane might protect against SCII via regulating the expression of miR-21-5p, its target genes (MAP2K3 and PPP1R3B), and related signaling pathways.

Overexpression of microRNA-202-3p in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells improves cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury by promoting angiogenesis and inhibiting inflammation

BACKGROUND

Cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI) can cause brain tissue inflammation, neuronal degeneration, and apoptosis. There is increasing evidence that microRNAs (miRNA) exert neuroprotective effects by regulating the inflammatory process during cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury. Additionally, it is increasingly acknowledged that neuroinflammation is regulated by Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4). However, it is unclear whether miRNA can exert its neuroprotective effects by regulating TLR4-mediated inflammation.

METHODS

The effects of BMSCs over-expressing miR-202-3p on CIRI, angiogenesis in midbrain tissue, and the release of inflammatory factors (IFs) in the serum were measured using in vivo rat models. We also used SH-SY5Y cells to establish an ischemia-reperfusion in vitro cell model. The interaction between miR-202-3p and TLR4 was analyzed by overexpressing miR-202-3p and knocking down TLR4. Knockdown of TLR4 was performed using siRNA.

RESULTS

Overexpression of miR-202-3p in BMSCs could significantly improve brain function and reduce brain damage. Simultaneously, miR-202-3p could significantly promote angiogenesis, increase the expression of vWF and VEGF, and reduce the expression of IFs. When the expression of TLR4 was significantly reduced in SH-SY5Y cells, the expression of IFs increased. Therefore, miRNA-202-3p may interact with TLR4 to modulate inflammation.

CONCLUSION

Our data indicated that miR-202-3p potentially exerts its neuroprotective effects and protects against CIRI by regulating TLR4-mediated inflammation.

Sevoflurane Postconditioning Attenuates Hepatic Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury by Limiting HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB Pathway via Modulating microRNA-142 in vivo and in vitro

Preconditioning of sevoflurane (Sevo) has been demonstrated to protect the liver from ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. However, it is unknown whether it has hepatoprotective when given at the onset of reperfusion (postconditioning), a protocol with more clinical impact. The present study aimed to explore the hepatoprotective effects of Sevo postconditioning against hepatic IR injury in vivo and in vitro and the possible mechanisms. Using a mouse model of hepatic I/R, Sevo postconditioning significantly improved hepatic injury after reperfusion, as demonstrated by reduced AST, ALT, and LDH serum levels and reduced histologic damage in liver tissues. Furthermore, Sevo postconditioning could suppress the apoptosis, inhibit oxidative stress and inflammatory response in liver tissue of HIRI mice, as well as improve the survival rate of HIRI mice. Through analyzing GSE72314 from the gene expression omnibus (GEO) database, it was demonstrated that microRNA (miR)-142 is downregulated by HIRI, which was reversed by Sevo treatment. Further investigation showed that agomiR-142 injection could enhance the hepatoprotective effects of Sevo postconditioning on I/R injury, while antagomiR-142 reversed these effects in mice. Notably, high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), an important inflammatory factor, was directly targeted by miR-142 in hepatic cells, and we further found that Sevo could inhibit the expression of HMGB1 through up-regulating miR-142 expression in HIRI mice model. In addition, we found that I/R injury induced the activation of TLR4/NF-κB inflammatory pathway was partially suppressed by Sevo postconditioning, and miR-142 mediated the regulatory role of Sevo postconditioning. In line with the in vivo results, Sevo treatment improved the cell viability, inhibited cell apoptosis, oxidative stress and inflammatory response in vitro HIRI model, while these effects were reversed by antagomiR-142 transfection. Collectively, our findings demonstrated that Sevo postconditioning counteracts the downregulation of miR-142 provoked by I/R, in turn decreased the expression of HMGB1, blocking TLR4/NF-κB pathway activation, thus improving hepatic I/R injury. Our data suggest that Sevo may be a valuable alternative anaesthetic agent in liver transplantation and major liver surgeries.

Retracted: Sevoflurane improves nerve regeneration and repair of neurological deficit in brain damage rats via microRNA-490-5p/CDK1 axis

BACKGROUND

Sevoflurane (Sevo) is neuroprotective in brain damage, thus our objective was to further investigate the impact of Sevo treatment on nerve regeneration and repair of neurological deficit in brain damage rats by regulating miR-490-5p and cyclin-dependent kinases 1 (CDK1).

METHODS

The rat middle cerebral artery occlusion model was established. miR-490-5p and CDK1 levels in brain tissues were tested. The behavioral changes, the number of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) positive cells, ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule-1 (Iba-1) and Nestin mRNA expression, the survival and apoptosis of neurons in peripheral tissues of infarct areas were detected by a series of assays. Furthermore, the target relationship between miR-490-5p and CDK1 was verified.

RESULTS

miR-490-5p was reduced and CDK1 was raised in brain tissues of brain damage rats. Sevo raised miR-490-5p and decreased CDK1 to improve neurological deficits, reduce apoptotic neurons, suppress expression levels of GFAP and Iba-1, and increase Nestin expression and the number of surviving neurons in peripheral tissue in infarct area, and alleviate the pathological changes of brain tissues of brain damage rats. CDK1 was negatively regulated by miR-490-5p.

CONCLUSION

Our study presents that Sevo treatment is involved in neurogenesis and repair of neurological deficit of brain damage rats via up-regulating miR-490-5p and inhibiting CDK1.

miR-181a Mediates Inflammatory Gene Expression After Intracerebral Hemorrhage: An Integrated Analysis of miRNA-seq and mRNA-seq in a Swine ICH Model

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a severe neurological disorder with no proven treatment. Inflammation after ICH contributes to clinical outcomes, but the relevant molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. In studies of peripheral leukocyte counts and mRNA-sequencing (mRNA-seq), our group previously reported that monocytes and Interleukin-8 (IL-8) were important contributors to post-ICH inflammation. microRNA (miRNA) are powerful regulators of gene expression and promising therapeutic targets. We now report findings from an integrated analysis of miRNA-seq and mRNA-seq in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from a swine ICH model. In 10 pigs, one PBMC sample was collected immediately prior to ICH induction and a second 6 h later; miRNA-seq and mRNA-seq were completed for each sample. An aggregate score calculation determined which miRNA regulated the differentially expressed mRNA. Networks of molecular interactions were generated for the combined miRNA/target mRNA. A total of 227 miRNA were identified, and 46 were differentially expressed after ICH (FDR < 0.05). The anti-inflammatory miR-181a was decreased post-ICH, and it was the most highly connected miRNA in the miRNA/mRNA bioinformatic network analysis. miR-181a has interconnected pathophysiology with IL-8 and monocytes; in prior studies, we found that IL-8 and monocytes contributed to post-ICH inflammation and ICH clinical outcome, respectively. miR-181a was a significant mediator of post-ICH inflammation and is promising for further study, including as a potential therapeutic target. This investigation also demonstrated feasible methodology for miRNA-seq/mRNA-seq analysis in swine that is innovative, and with unique challenges, compared with transcriptomics research in more established species.

SET8 mitigates hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury in mice by suppressing MARK4/NLRP3 inflammasome pathway

AIMS

Hepatic ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury is a critical factor affecting the prognosis of liver surgery. The aim of this study is to explore the effects of SET8 on hepatic I/R injury and the putative mechanisms.

MAIN METHODS

The expression of SET8 and MARK4 in I/R group and sham group were detected both in vivo and in vitro. In addition, mouse and RAW 264.7 cells were transfected with MARK4 siRNA and SET8 siRNA knockdown of MARK4 and SET8, respectively. The expression of SET8, MARK4 and NLRP3-associated proteins were detected after different treatments. The pathology of liver and the serologic detection were detected after different treatments.

KEY FINDINGS

Our present study identified SET domain-containing protein 8 (SET8) as an efficient protein, which can negatively regulate hepatic I/R-mediated inflammatory response and ameliorate hepatic I/R injury by suppressing microtubule affinity-regulating kinase 4 (MARK4)/ NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome pathway. The data showed that MARK4 deficiency inhibited hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R)-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation, while SET8 deficiency showed the opposite effect. We further demonstrated that SET8 restrained NLRP3 inflammasome activation by inhibiting MARK4. Moreover, we verified SET8 made protective effect on hepatic I/R injury.

SIGNIFICANCE

SET8 plays an essential role in hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury in mice by suppressing MARK4/NLRP3 inflammasome pathway. Our results may offer a new strategy to mitigate hepatic I/R injury.