Inflammation-induced DNA damage, mutations and cancer

Allium sativum Essential Oil Supplementation Reverses the Hepatic Inflammation, Genotoxicity and Apoptotic Effects in Swiss Albino Mice Intoxicated with the Lead Nitrate

Prolonged lead (Pb) exposure impairs human health due to its interference with physiological and biochemical processes. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate natural therapeutics to alleviate Pb-induced intoxication. In the current investigation, essential oil extracted from the fresh bulbs of Allium sativum was considered as a natural remedy. Initially, in vitro antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of A. sativum essential oil (ASEO) were explored. The results reported that ASEO exhibits potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential. Additionally, an in vivo study was conducted to elucidate its preventive role against Lead-nitrate (LN)-induced hepatic damage in Swiss albino mice. The experimental mice were allocated into six groups: Control, LN-intoxicated group (50 mg/kg), LN + ASEO (50 mg/kg), LN + ASEO (80 mg/kg), LN + Silymarin (25 mg/kg), and LN + vehicle oil control group. The entire duration of the study was of 30 days. From the results, it was determined that LN exposure elevated the Pb content in hepatic tissues which subsequently increased the serum biomarkers, inflammatory cytokines (NF-kB, TNF-α, IL-6) as well as apoptotic factors (caspase-3, BAX), all of which contribute to DNA damage. Meanwhile, it reduced anti-inflammatory (IFN-γ and IL-10) and anti-apoptotic factors (Bcl-2). Furthermore, Pb accumulation in hepatic tissues changed the histological architecture, which was linked to necrosis, central vein dilation, inflammatory cell infiltration and Kupffer cell activation. In contrast to this, ASEO administration decreased the Pb content, which in turn reduced the level of serum biomarkers, inflammatory and apoptotic factors. At the same time, it increased the anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic factors, thereby reduced DNA damage and restored the hepatic histology. In conclusion, exhaustive research is of the utmost demand to elucidate the precise defense mechanisms of ASEO against LN-induced hepatotoxicity.

Cell toxicity assessment in co-treatment to metalworking fluids and vibration: an in vitro study of occupational exposure setting

This study was designed to study dual risk of MWFs and vibration according to exposure simulation of selected industry. Air samples of two types MWFs were evaluated according to NIOSH 5026. Vibration acceleration exposure was assessed based on the ISO 8041:2005 standard. Cell treatment of both MWF air samples and vibration as the same as dual exposure to MWF airborne and vibration was assessed. There is a potency of nitrosamine formation in airborne samples of ethylamine containing MWF, while heterocyclic including bore is found in airborne bore containing MWF. DNA breaks caused by boron-containing MWF were higher than nitrosamine air samples. Oxidative stress production and chronic inflammation were highlighted in the response to cell treatments. The risk of cell toxicity in machining workers was evaluated at a level lower than the occupational exposure limit for MWFs and vibration.

Therapeutic potential of traditional Chinese medicine in the prevention and treatment of digestive inflammatory cancer transformation: Portulaca oleracea L. as a promising drug

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been used for centuries to treat various types of inflammation and tumors of the digestive system. Portulaca oleracea L. (POL), has been used in TCM for thousands of years. The chemical composition of POL is variable and includes flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids and organic acids and other classes of natural compounds. Many of these compounds exhibit powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer-transforming effects in the digestive system.

AIM OF STUDY

In this review, we focus on the potential therapeutic role of POL in NASH, gastritis and colitis and their associated cancers, with a focus on the pharmacological properties and potential mechanisms of action of the main natural active compounds in POL.

METHODS

The information and data on Portulaca oleracea L. and its main active ingredients were collated from various resources like ethnobotanical textbooks and literature databases such as CNKI, VIP (Chinese literature), PubMed, Science Direct, Elsevier and Google Scholar (English literatures), Wiley, Springer, Tailor and Francis, Scopus, Inflibnet.

RESULTS

Kaempferol, luteolin, myricetin, quercetin, genistein, EPA, DHA, and melatonin were found to improve NASH and NASH-HCC, while kaempferol, apigenin, luteolin, and quercetin played a therapeutic role in gastritis and gastric cancer. Apigenin, luteolin, myricetin, quercetin, genistein, lupeol, vitamin C and melatonin were found to have therapeutic effects in the treatment of colitis and its associated cancers. The discovery of the beneficial effects of these natural active compounds in POL supports the idea that POL could be a promising novel candidate for the treatment and prevention of inflammation-related cancers of the digestive system.

CONCLUSION

The discovery of the beneficial effects of these natural active compounds in POL supports the idea that POL could be a promising novel candidate for the treatment and prevention of inflammation-related cancers of the digestive system. However, clinical data describing the mode of action of the naturally active compounds of POL are still lacking. In addition, pharmacokinetic data for POL compounds, such as changes in drug dose and absorption rates, cannot be extrapolated from animal models and need to be measured in patients in clinical trials. On the one hand, a systematic meta-analysis of the existing publications on TCM containing POL still needs to be carried out. On the other hand, studies on the hepatic and renal toxicity of POL are also needed. Additionally, well-designed preclinical and clinical studies to validate the therapeutic effects of TCM need to be performed, thus hopefully providing a basis for the validation of the clinical benefits of POL.

Air pollution and survival in patients with malignant mesothelioma and asbestos-related lung cancer: a follow-up study of 1591 patients in South Korea

BACKGROUND

Despite significant advancements in treatments such as surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, the survival rate for patients with asbestos-related cancers remains low. Numerous studies have provided evidence suggesting that air pollution induces oxidative stress and inflammation, affecting acute respiratory diseases, lung cancer, and overall mortality. However, because of the high case fatality rate, there is limited knowledge regarding the effects of air pollution exposures on survival following a diagnosis of asbestos-related cancers. This study aimed to determine the effect of air pollution on the survival of patients with malignant mesothelioma and asbestos-related lung cancer.

METHODS

We followed up with 593 patients with malignant mesothelioma and 998 patients with lung cancer identified as asbestos victims between 2009 and 2022. Data on five air pollutants-sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, fine particulate matter with a diameter < 10 μm, and fine particulate matter with a diameter < 2.5 μm-were obtained from nationwide atmospheric monitoring stations. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate the association of cumulative air pollutant exposure with patient mortality, while adjusting for potential confounders. Quantile-based g-computation was used to assess the combined effect of the air pollutant mixture on mortality.

RESULTS

The 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival rates for both cancer types decreased with increasing exposure to all air pollutants. The estimated hazard ratios rose significantly with a 1-standard deviation increase in each pollutant exposure level. A quartile increase in the pollutant mixture was associated with a 1.99-fold increase in the risk of malignant mesothelioma-related mortality (95% confidence interval: 1.62, 2.44). For lung cancer, a quartile increase in the pollutant mixture triggered a 1.87-fold increase in the mortality risk (95% confidence interval: 1.53, 2.30).

CONCLUSION

These findings support the hypothesis that air pollution exposure after an asbestos-related cancer diagnosis can negatively affect patient survival.

DNA damages in hepatocytes are amended by an inflammation-driven rescue repair mechanism in chronic hepatitis B

BACKGROUND

Our previous study has shown that intrahepatic necroinflammation favors the eliminations of HBV integration and clonal hepatocytes. Here, the effect of inflammation on host DNA damage eliminations in liver biopsy tissues from patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) was further investigated.

METHODS

DNA damage markers, histone γ-H2AX and phosphorylated heterochromatin protein 1γ (p-HP1γ), and senescent marker p21 were detected using immunohistochemical and immunofluorescent assays in liver biopsy samples from 69 CHB patients and 12 liver cirrhosis (LC) patients. Twenty paired hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) surgical samples were used as controls.

RESULTS

Both γ-H2AX and p-HP1γ were sensitively detected in nuclear and cytoplasmic/nuclear patterns. Nuclear γ-H2AX was superior as a DNA damage marker in hepatocytes. The level of nuclear γ-H2AX in CHB, comparable to those in LC and HCC, was correlated with liver fibrosis and coexisted with the senescent marker p21. However, hepatocytes carried an alleviated level of DNA damages, which was associated with the level of cytoplasmic γ-H2AX. Cytoplasmic γ-H2AX chiefly occurred in hepatocytes near necroinflammatory foci, was correlated with liver inflammation and usually indicated the decrease or disappearance of nuclear γ-H2AX. The lack of cytoplasmic γ-H2AX together with the high level of nuclear γ-H2AX was associated with the progression from large cell changes/dysplasia to small cell changes/dysplasia.

CONCLUSIONS

Hepatocytes in CHB already carry massive DNA damages and undergo cellular senescence. The DNA damages in those senescent hepatocytes are histopathologically demonstrated to be amended by a novel cytoplasmic γ-H2AX-indicated and inflammation-driven rescue repair mechanism, which may be involved in hepatocarcinogenesis if it works improperly.

Effects of the glyphosate-based herbicide Roundup on C. elegans and S. cerevisiae mortality, reproduction, and transcription fidelity

Glyphosate-based weed killers such as Roundup have been implicated in detrimental effects on single- and multicellular eukaryotic model organism health and longevity. However, the mode(s) of action for these effects are currently unknown. In this study, we investigate the impact of exposure to Roundup on two model organisms: Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Caenorhabditis elegans and test the hypothesis that exposure to Roundup decreases transcription fidelity. Population growth assays and motility assays were performed in order to determine the phenotypic effects of Roundup exposure. We also used Rolling-Circle Amplification RNA sequencing to quantify the impact of exposure to Roundup on transcription fidelity in these two model organisms. Our results show that exposure to the glyphosate-based herbicide Roundup increases mortality, reduces reproduction, and increases transcription error rates in C. elegans and S. cerevisiae. We suggest that these effects may be due in part to the involvement of inflammation and oxidative stress, conditions which may also contribute to increases in transcription error rates.

Advances in molecular mechanisms of inflammatory bowel disease‑associated colorectal cancer (Review)

The link between inflammation and cancer is well documented and colonic inflammation caused by inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is thought to be a high-risk factor for the development of colorectal cancer (CRC). The complex crosstalk between epithelial and inflammatory cells is thought to underlie the progression from inflammation to cancer. The present review collates and summarises recent advances in the understanding of the pathogenesis of IBD-associated CRC (IBD-CRC), including the oncogenic mechanisms of the main inflammatory signalling pathways and genetic alterations induced by oxidative stress during colonic inflammation, and discusses the crosstalk between the tumour microenvironment, intestinal flora and host immune factors during inflammatory oncogenesis in colitis-associated CRC. In addition, the therapeutic implications of anti-inflammatory therapy for IBD-CRC were discussed, intending to provide new insight into improve clinical practice.

DNA repair deficiencies and neurodegeneration

Neurodegenerative diseases are the second most prevalent cause of death in industrialized countries. Alzheimer's Disease is the most widespread and also most acknowledged form of dementia today. Together with Parkinson's Disease they account for over 90 % cases of neurodegenerative disorders caused by proteopathies. Far less known are the neurodegenerative pathologies in DNA repair deficiency syndromes. Such diseases like Cockayne - or Werner Syndrome are described as progeroid syndromes - diseases that cause the premature ageing of the affected persons, and there are clear implications of such diseases in neurologic dysfunction and degeneration. In this review, we aim to draw the attention on commonalities between proteopathy-associated neurodegeneration and neurodegeneration caused by DNA repair defects and discuss how mitochondria are implicated in the development of both disorder classes. Furthermore, we highlight how nematodes are a valuable and indispensable model organism to study conserved neurodegenerative processes in a fast-forward manner.

Friend or Foe: Exploring the Relationship between the Gut Microbiota and the Pathogenesis and Treatment of Digestive Cancers

Digestive cancers are among the leading causes of cancer death in the world. However, the mechanisms of cancer development and progression are not fully understood. Accumulating evidence in recent years pointing to the bidirectional interactions between gut dysbiosis and the development of a specific type of gastrointestinal cancer is shedding light on the importance of this "unseen organ"-the microbiota. This review focuses on the local role of the gut microbiota imbalance in different digestive tract organs and annexes related to the carcinogenic mechanisms. Microbiota modulation, either by probiotic administration or by dietary changes, plays an important role in the future therapies of various digestive cancers.

Prognostic and therapeutic potential of senescent stromal fibroblasts in prostate cancer

The stromal component of the tumour microenvironment in primary and metastatic prostate cancer can influence and promote disease progression. Within the prostatic stroma, fibroblasts are one of the most prevalent cell types associated with precancerous and cancerous lesions; they have a vital role in the structural composition, organization and integrity of the extracellular matrix. Fibroblasts within the tumour microenvironment can undergo cellular senescence, which is a stable arrest of cell growth and a phenomenon that is emerging as a recognized hallmark of cancer. Supporting the idea that cellular senescence has a pro-tumorigenic role, a subset of senescent cells exhibits a senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), which, along with increased inflammation, can promote prostate cancer cell growth and survival. These cellular characteristics make targeting senescent cells and/or modulating SASP attractive as a potential preventive or therapeutic option for prostate cancer.

Decoding the interplay between genetic and non-genetic drivers of metastasis

Metastasis is a multistep process by which cancer cells break away from their original location and spread to distant organs, and is responsible for the vast majority of cancer-related deaths. Preventing early metastatic dissemination would revolutionize the ability to fight cancer. Unfortunately, the relatively poor understanding of the molecular underpinnings of metastasis has hampered the development of effective anti-metastatic drugs. Although it is now accepted that disseminating tumour cells need to acquire multiple competencies to face the many obstacles they encounter before reaching their metastatic site(s), whether these competencies are acquired through an accumulation of metastasis-specific genetic alterations and/or non-genetic events is often debated. Here we review a growing body of literature highlighting the importance of both genetic and non-genetic reprogramming events during the metastatic cascade, and discuss how genetic and non-genetic processes act in concert to confer metastatic competencies. We also describe how recent technological advances, and in particular the advent of single-cell multi-omics and barcoding approaches, will help to better elucidate the cross-talk between genetic and non-genetic mechanisms of metastasis and ultimately inform innovative paths for the early detection and interception of this lethal process.

Toll-like receptors in health and disease

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are inflammatory triggers and belong to a family of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) that are central to the regulation of host protective adaptive immune responses. Activation of TLRs in innate immune myeloid cells directs lymphocytes to produce the most appropriate effector responses to eliminate infection and maintain homeostasis of the body's internal environment. Inappropriate TLR stimulation can lead to the development of general autoimmune diseases as well as chronic and acute inflammation, and even cancer. Therefore, TLRs are expected to be targets for therapeutic treatment of inflammation-related diseases, autoimmune diseases, microbial infections, and human cancers. This review summarizes the recent discoveries in the molecular and structural biology of TLRs. The role of different TLR signaling pathways in inflammatory diseases, autoimmune diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, digestive diseases, and even cancers (oral, gastric, breast, colorectal) is highlighted and summarizes new drugs and related clinical treatments in clinical trials, providing an overview of the potential and prospects of TLRs for the treatment of TLR-related diseases.

Modeling Radiation-Induced Epithelial Cell Injury in Murine Three-Dimensional Esophageal Organoids

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a deadly consequence of radiation exposure to the esophagus. ESCC arises from esophageal epithelial cells that undergo malignant transformation and features a perturbed squamous cell differentiation program. Understanding the dose- and radiation quality-dependence of the esophageal epithelium response to radiation may provide insights into the ability of radiation to promote ESCC. We have explored factors that may play a role in esophageal epithelial radiosensitivity and their potential relationship to ESCC risk. We have utilized a murine three-dimensional (3D) organoid model that recapitulates the morphology and functions of the stratified squamous epithelium of the esophagus to study persistent dose- and radiation quality-dependent changes. Interestingly, although high-linear energy transfer (LET) Fe ion exposure induced a more intense and persistent alteration of squamous differentiation and 53BP1 DNA damage foci levels as compared to Cs, the MAPK/SAPK stress pathway signaling showed similar altered levels for most phospho-proteins with both radiation qualities. In addition, the lower dose of high-LET exposure also revealed nearly the same degree of morphological changes, even though only ~36% of the cells were predicted to be hit at the lower 0.1 Gy dose, suggesting that a bystander effect may be induced. Although p38 and ERK/MAPK revealed the highest levels following high-LET exposure, the findings reveal that even a low dose (0.1 Gy) of both radiation qualities can elicit a persistent stress signaling response that may critically impact the differentiation gradient of the esophageal epithelium, providing novel insights into the pathogenesis of radiation-induced esophageal injury and early stage esophageal carcinogenesis.

Ginsenoside Rg1 attenuates lipopolysaccharide-induced chronic liver damage by activating Nrf2 signaling and inhibiting inflammasomes in hepatic cells

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ginseng (Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer) is a precious traditional Chinese medicine with multiple pharmacological effects. Ginsenoside Rg1 is a main active ingredient extracted from ginseng, which is known for its age-delaying and antioxidant effects. Increasing evidence indicates that Rg1 exhibits anti-inflammatory properties in numerous diseases and may ameliorate oxidative damage and inflammation in many chronic liver diseases.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Chronic inflammatory injury in liver cells is an important pathological basis of many liver diseases. However, its mechanism remains unclear and therapeutic strategies to prevent its development need to be further explored. Thus, our study is to delve the protective effect and mechanism of Rg1 against chronic hepatic inflammatory injuries induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The chronic liver damage model in mice was build up by injecting intraperitoneally with LPS (200 μg/kg) for 21 days. Serum liver function indicators and levels of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α were examined by using corresponding Kits. Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E), Periodic acid-Schiff (PAS), and Masson stains were utilized to visualize hepatic histopathological damage, glycogen deposition, and liver fibrosis. The nuclear import of p-Nrf2 and the generation of Col4 in the liver were detected by IF, while IHC was employed to detect the expressions of NLRP3 and AIM2 in the hepatic. The Western blot and q-PCR were used to survey the expressions of proteins and mRNAs of fibrosis and apoptosis, and the expressions of Keap1, p-Nrf2 and NLRP3, NLRP1, AIM2 inflammasome-related proteins in mouse liver. The cell viability of human hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HepG2) was detected by Cell Counting Kit-8 to select the action concentration of LPS, and intracellular ROS generation was detected using a kit. The expressions of Nuclear Nrf2, HO-1, NQO1 and NLRP3, NLRP1, and AIM2 inflammasome-related proteins in HepG2 cells were detected by Western blot. Finally, the feasibility of the molecular interlinking between Rg1 and Nrf2 was demonstrated by molecular docking.

RESULTS

Rg1 treatment for 21 days decreased the levels of ALT, AST, and inflammatory factors of serum IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α in mice induced by LPS. Pathological results indicated that Rg1 treatment obviously alleviated hepatocellular injury and apoptosis, inflammatory cell infiltration and liver fibrosis in LPS stimulated mice. Rg1 promoted Keap1 degradation and enhanced the expressions of p-Nrf2, HO-1 and decreased the levels of NLRP1, NLRP3, AIM2, cleaved caspase-1, IL-1β and IL-6 in livers caused by LPS. Furthermore, Rg1 effectively suppressed the rise of ROS in HepG2 cells induced by LPS, whereas inhibition of Nrf2 reversed the role of Rg1 in reducing the production of ROS and NLRP3, NLRP1, and AIM2 expressions in LPS-stimulated HepG2 cells. Finally, the molecular docking illustrated that Rg1 exhibits a strong affinity towards Nrf2.

CONCLUSION

The findings indicate that Rg1 significantly ameliorates chronic liver damage and fibrosis induced by LPS. The mechanism may be mediated through promoting the dissociation of Nrf2 from Keap1 and then activating Nrf2 signaling and further inhibiting NLRP3, NLRP1, and AIM2 inflammasomes in liver cells.

Modulating Nitric Oxide: Implications for Cytotoxicity and Cytoprotection

Despite the significant progress in the fields of biology, physiology, molecular medicine, and pharmacology; the designation of the properties of nitrogen monoxide in the regulation of life-supporting functions of the organism; and numerous works devoted to this molecule, there are still many open questions in this field. It is widely accepted that nitric oxide (•NO) is a unique molecule that, despite its extremely simple structure, has a wide range of functions in the body, including the cardiovascular system, the central nervous system (CNS), reproduction, the endocrine system, respiration, digestion, etc. Here, we systematize the properties of •NO, contributing in conditions of physiological norms, as well as in various pathological processes, to the mechanisms of cytoprotection and cytodestruction. Current experimental and clinical studies are contradictory in describing the role of •NO in the pathogenesis of many diseases of the cardiovascular system and CNS. We describe the mechanisms of cytoprotective action of •NO associated with the regulation of the expression of antiapoptotic and chaperone proteins and the regulation of mitochondrial function. The most prominent mechanisms of cytodestruction-the initiation of nitrosative and oxidative stresses, the production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, and participation in apoptosis and mitosis. The role of •NO in the formation of endothelial and mitochondrial dysfunction is also considered. Moreover, we focus on the various ways of pharmacological modulation in the nitroxidergic system that allow for a decrease in the cytodestructive mechanisms of •NO and increase cytoprotective ones.

The prognostic role of pre-treatment neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio and platelet to lymphocyte ratio in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma treated with concurrent chemoradiotherapy

PURPOSE

In this study, we retrospectively investigated the prognostic role of pre-treatment neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma patients (ESCC) treated with concurrent chemo-radiotherapy (CCRT).

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed the records of 338 patients with pathologically diagnosed esophageal squamous cell carcinoma that underwent concurrent chemo-radiotherapy from January 2013 to December 2017. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to identify prognostic factors for progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

The result showed that the thresholds for NLR and PLR were 2.47 and 136.0 by receiver operating characteristic curve. High NLR and PLR were both associated with tumor length (P < 0.05). High NLR and PLR were significantly associated with poor PFS and OS. Multivariate analyses identified NLR, PLR and TNM stage were independent risk factors for PFS and OS.

CONCLUSIONS

We show that the pre-treatment NLR and PLR may serve as prognostic indicators for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma treated with concurrent chemo-radiotherapy.

Dysfunction of Nrf2-regulated cellular defence system and JNK activation induced by high dose of fly Ash particles are associated with pulmonary injury in mouse lungs

The mechanisms of the exposure to fine particulate matter (PM) as a risk factor for pulmonary injury are not fully understood. The transcription factor, NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), plays a key role in protection lung against PM insult and cancer chemoprevention. In this study, F3-S fly ash particles from a municipal waste incinerator were evaluated as a PM model. We found that F3-S triggered hierarchical oxidative stress responses involving the prolonged activation of the cytoprotective Nrf2 transcriptional program via Keap1 Cys151 modification, and c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK) phosphorylation at higher doses. In mouse lungs exposed to fly ash particles at a low dose (10-20 mg/kg), Nrf2 signalling was upregulated, while in those exposed to a high fly ash particle dose (40 mg/kg), there was significant activation of JNK, and this correlated with Nrf2 phosphorylation and the downregulation of antioxidant response element (ARE)-driven genes. The JNK inhibitor, SP600125, reversed Nrf2 phosphorylation, and downregulation of detoxifying enzymes. Silencing JNK expression in mouse lungs using adenoviral shRNA inhibited JNK activation and Nrf2 phosphorylation, promoted ARE-driven gene expression, and reduced pulmonary injury. Furthermore, we found that the 452-515 amino acid region within the Neh1 domain of Nrf2 was required for its interaction with P-JNK. We demonstrated that Nrf2 was an important P-JNK target in fly ash-induced pulmonary toxicity. JNK phosphorylated Nrf2, leading to a dysfunction of the Nrf2-mediated defence system.

A prognostic model established using bile acid genes to predict the immunity and survival of patients with gastrointestinal cancer

BACKGROUND

The metabolism of abnormal bile acids (BAs) is implicated in the initiation and development of gastrointestinal (GI) cancer. However, there was a lack of research on the molecular mechanisms of BAs metabolism in GI.

METHODS

Genes involved in BAs metabolism were excavated from public databases of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database, Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, and Molecular Signatures Database (MSigDB). ConsensusClusterPlus was used to classify molecular subtypes for GI. To develop a RiskScore model for predicting GI prognosis, univariate Cox analysis was performed on the genes in protein-protein interaction (PPI) network, followed by using Lasso regression and stepwise regression to refine the model and to determine the key prognostic genes. Tumor immune microenvironment in GI patients from different risk groups was assessed using the ESTIMATE algorithm and enrichment analysis. Reverse transcription-quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR), Transwell assay, and wound healing assay were carried out to validate the expression and functions of the model genes.

RESULTS

This study defined three molecular subtypes (C1, C2, and C3). Specifically, C1 had the best prognosis, while C3 had the worst prognosis with high immune checkpoint gene expression levels and TIDE scores. We selected nine key genes (AXIN2, ATOH1, CHST13, PNMA2, GYG2, MAGEA3, SNCG, HEYL, and RASSF10) that significantly affected the prognosis of GI and used them to develop a RiskScore model accordingly. Combining the verification results from a nomogram, the prediction of the model was proven to be accurate. The high RiskScore group was significantly enriched in tumor and immune-related pathways. Compared with normal gastric mucosal epithelial cells, the mRNA levels of the nine genes were differential in the gastric cancer cells. Inhibition of PNMA2 suppressed migration and invasion of the cancer cells.

CONCLUSION

We distinguished three GI molecular subtypes with different prognosis based on the genes related to BAs metabolism and developed a RiskScore model, contributing to the diagnosis and treatment of patients with GI.

Risk Factors for Ovarian Cancer by BRCA Status: A Collaborative Case-Only Analysis

BACKGROUND

Women with an inherited pathogenic variant in BRCA1 or BRCA2 have a greatly increased risk of developing ovarian cancer, but the importance of behavioral factors is less clear. We used a case-only design to compare the magnitude of associations with established reproductive, hormonal, and lifestyle risk factors between BRCA mutation carriers and noncarriers.

METHODS

We pooled data from five studies from the Ovarian Cancer Association Consortium including 637 BRCA carriers and 4,289 noncarriers. Covariate-adjusted generalized linear mixed models were used to estimate interaction risk ratios (IRR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI), with BRCA (carrier vs. noncarrier) as the response variable.

RESULTS

IRRs were above 1.0 for known protective factors including ever being pregnant (IRR = 1.29, 95% CI; 1.00-1.67) and ever using the oral contraceptive pill (1.30, 95% CI; 1.07-1.60), suggesting the protective effects of these factors may be reduced in carriers compared with noncarriers. Conversely, the IRRs for risk factors including endometriosis and menopausal hormone therapy were below 1.0, suggesting weaker positive associations among BRCA carriers. In contrast, associations with lifestyle factors including smoking, physical inactivity, body mass index, and aspirin use did not appear to differ by BRCA status.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that associations with hormonal and reproductive factors are generally weaker for those with a pathogenic BRCA variant than those without, while associations with modifiable lifestyle factors are similar for carriers and noncarriers.

IMPACT

Advice to maintain a healthy weight, be physically active, and refrain from smoking will therefore benefit BRCA carriers as well as noncarriers.

Anemia and Its Connections to Inflammation in Older Adults: A Review

Anemia is a common hematological disorder that affects 12% of the community-dwelling population, 40% of hospitalized patients, and 47% of nursing home residents. Our understanding of the impact of inflammation on iron metabolism and erythropoiesis is still lacking. In older adults, anemia can be divided into nutritional deficiency anemia, bleeding anemia, and unexplained anemia. The last type of anemia might be caused by reduced erythropoietin (EPO) activity, progressive EPO resistance of bone marrow erythroid progenitors, and the chronic subclinical pro-inflammatory state. Overall, one-third of older patients with anemia demonstrate a nutritional deficiency, one-third have a chronic subclinical pro-inflammatory state and chronic kidney disease, and one-third suffer from anemia of unknown etiology. Understanding anemia's pathophysiology in people aged 65 and over is crucial because it contributes to frailty, falls, cognitive decline, decreased functional ability, and higher mortality risk. Inflammation produces adverse effects on the cells of the hematological system. These effects include iron deficiency (hypoferremia), reduced EPO production, and the elevated phagocytosis of erythrocytes by hepatic and splenic macrophages. Additionally, inflammation causes enhanced eryptosis due to oxidative stress in the circulation. Identifying mechanisms behind age-related inflammation is essential for a better understanding and preventing anemia in older adults.

The role of DNA damage in neural stem cells ageing

Neural stem cells (NSCs) are pluripotent stem cells with the potential to differentiate into a variety of nerve cells. NSCs are susceptible to both intracellular and extracellular insults, thus causing DNA damage. Extracellular insults include ultraviolet, ionizing radiation, base analogs, modifiers, alkyl agents and others, while intracellular factors include Reactive oxygen species (ROS) radicals produced by mitochondria, mismatches that occur during DNA replication, deamination of bases, loss of bases, and more. When encountered with DNA damage, cells typically employ three coping strategies: DNA repair, damage tolerance, and apoptosis. NSCs, like many other stem cells, have the ability to divide, differentiate, and repair DNA damage to prevent mutations from being passed down to the next generation. However, when DNA damage accumulates over time, it will lead to a series of alterations in the metabolism of cells, which will cause cellular ageing. The ageing and exhaustion of neural stem cell will have serious effects on the body, such as neurodegenerative diseases. The purpose of this review is to examine the processes by which DNA damage leads to NSCs ageing and the mechanisms of DNA repair in NSCs.

Cellular senescence promotes meibomian gland dysfunction in a chronic graft-versus-host disease mouse model

PURPOSE

Aging is a well-established risk factor for meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). We previously reported an accelerated cellular senescence phenomenon in the lacrimal glands of a murine model of chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD). Herein, we aimed to elucidate the relationship between cellular senescence and MGD in cGVHD mice, utilizing the senolytic agent ABT-263.

METHODS

A cGVHD mouse model was established through allogeneic bone marrow transplantation (BMT) from B10.D2 to BALB/c mice. Subsequently, cGVHD mice were treated with either ABT-263 or vehicle. The eyelids of recipients were analyzed at 4-week intervals post-BMT in both groups.

RESULTS

Meibomian gland (MG) area was significantly smaller in cGVHD mice than in syngeneic control mice. ABT-263-treated mice retained a significantly larger MG area than their vehicle-treated counterparts. Pathological and immunohistochemical examinations revealed significant reductions in eyelid tissue inflammation and pathological fibrosis in the ABT-263 group compared to that in the vehicle-treated group. Additionally, expression of DNA damage markers, senescent cell markers, and senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) factors was elevated in the eyelids of cGVHD mice compared with that in syngeneic mice. The expression of these cellular senescence-associated molecules was considerably suppressed in ABT-263-treated eyelids compared to that in vehicle-treated ones.

CONCLUSIONS

Cellular senescence, along with expression of SASP factors, exhibited increased activity in the eyelids, particularly in the MGs of cGVHD mice. ABT-263 mitigated the severity of MGD. These findings highlight the potential of targeting cellular senescence as an effective approach for MGD treatment in cGVHD.

Roles of reactive oxygen species in inflammation and cancer

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) constitute a spectrum of oxygenic metabolites crucial in modulating pathological organism functions. Disruptions in ROS equilibrium span various diseases, and current insights suggest a dual role for ROS in tumorigenesis and the immune response within cancer. This review rigorously examines ROS production and its role in normal cells, elucidating the subsequent regulatory network in inflammation and cancer. Comprehensive synthesis details the documented impacts of ROS on diverse immune cells. Exploring the intricate relationship between ROS and cancer immunity, we highlight its influence on existing immunotherapies, including immune checkpoint blockade, chimeric antigen receptors, and cancer vaccines. Additionally, we underscore the promising prospects of utilizing ROS and targeting ROS modulators as novel immunotherapeutic interventions for cancer. This review discusses the complex interplay between ROS, inflammation, and tumorigenesis, emphasizing the multifaceted functions of ROS in both physiological and pathological conditions. It also underscores the potential implications of ROS in cancer immunotherapy and suggests future research directions, including the development of targeted therapies and precision oncology approaches. In summary, this review emphasizes the significance of understanding ROS-mediated mechanisms for advancing cancer therapy and developing personalized treatments.

Chia nanoemulsion: anti-inflammatory mechanism, biological behavior and cellular interactions

Aim: This study explores chia oil, rich in ω-3 fatty acids and nutraceutical components, as a potential remedy for diseases, especially those linked to inflammation and cancer. Methods/materials: A chia oil-based nanoemulsion, developed through single emulsification, underwent comprehensive analysis using various techniques. In vitro and in vivo assays, including macrophage polarization, nitrite and cytokine production, cellular uptake and biodistribution, were conducted to assess the anti-inflammatory efficacy. Results & conclusion: Results reveal that the chia nanoemulsion significantly inhibits inflammation, outperforming pure oil with twice the efficacy. Enhanced uptake by macrophage-like cells and substantial accumulation in key organs indicate its potential as an economical and effective anti-inflammatory nanodrug, addressing global economic and health impacts of inflammation-related diseases.

The Killer's Web: Interconnection between Inflammation, Epigenetics and Nutrition in Cancer

Inflammation is a key contributor to both the initiation and progression of tumors, and it can be triggered by genetic instability within tumors, as well as by lifestyle and dietary factors. The inflammatory response plays a critical role in the genetic and epigenetic reprogramming of tumor cells, as well as in the cells that comprise the tumor microenvironment. Cells in the microenvironment acquire a phenotype that promotes immune evasion, progression, and metastasis. We will review the mechanisms and pathways involved in the interaction between tumors, inflammation, and nutrition, the limitations of current therapies, and discuss potential future therapeutic approaches.

Low Adherence to Mediterranean Diet Characterizes Metabolic Patients with Gastrointestinal Cancer

Background. Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers are one of the most relevant causes of death globally, frequently associated with poor dietary patterns. The Mediterranean Diet (MedDiet) contributes to cancer prevention. To assess adherence to MedDiet, our research group validated a new score, the Chrono Med Diet Score (CMDS), that captures increased visceral adiposity. Methods. We enrolled 401 subjects who underwent an evaluation for metabolic diseases and specific screening procedures according to current guidelines and were asked to answer CMDS. A total of 71 new cancer cases were recorded, including 40 GI and 31 non-gastrointestinal (NON-GI) cancers. Results. We found that CMDS was reduced in subjects who were diagnosed with cancers. Patients who reported a CMDS score of 12 or less had an over three times increased risk of being diagnosed with GI cancers and presented increased waist circumference and triglycerides and reduced HDL cholesterol compared to adherent subjects. Conclusions. Low CMDS values capture the risk for cancer diagnosis, especially for GI cancers. Thus, CMDS, along with waist circumference, can be considered as a bona fide marker for increased risk of cancer, requiring anticipated screening procedures for the detection of premalignant and early stage GI cancers in patients with low adherence to MedDiet.

Chronic inflammation and cancer; the two sides of a coin

The correlation between chronic inflammation and cancer was initially identified in the 19th century. Biomolecules like interleukins, chemokines, tumor necrosis factors, growth factors, and adhesion molecules, which regulate inflammation, are recognized contributors to neoplastic transformation through various mechanisms, including oncogenic mutations, resistance to apoptosis, and adaptive responses like angiogenesis. This review aims to establish connections between the intricate and complex mechanisms of chronic inflammation and cancer. We illuminate implicit signaling mechanisms that drive the association between chronic inflammation and the initiation/progression of cancer, exploring potential impacts on other diseases. Additionally, we discuss the modalities of currently available therapeutic options for chronic inflammation and cancer, emphasizing the dual nature of such therapies. A thorough understanding of the molecular basis of chronic inflammation is crucial for developing novel approaches in the prevention and treatment of cancer.

Unraveling lipid and inflammation interplay in cancer, aging and infection for novel theranostic approaches

The synergistic relationships between Cancer, Aging, and Infection, here referred to as the CAIn Triangle, are significant determinants in numerous health maladies and mortality rates. The CAIn-related pathologies exhibit close correlations with each other and share two common underlying factors: persistent inflammation and anomalous lipid concentration profiles in the membranes of affected cells. This study provides a comprehensive evaluation of the most pertinent interconnections within the CAIn Triangle, in addition to examining the relationship between chronic inflammation and specific lipidic compositions in cellular membranes. To tackle the CAIn-associated diseases, a suite of complementary strategies aimed at diagnosis, prevention, and treatment is proffered. Our holistic approach is expected to augment the understanding of the fundamental mechanisms underlying these diseases and highlight the potential of shared features to facilitate the development of novel theranostic strategies.

Exploring the potential of Toxoplasma gondii in drug development and as a delivery system

Immune-mediated inflammatory diseases are various groups of conditions that result in immune system disorders and increased cancer risk. Despite the identification of causative cytokines and pathways, current clinical treatment for immune-mediated inflammatory diseases is limited. In addition, immune-mediated inflammatory disease treatment can increase the risk of cancer. Several previous studies have demonstrated that Toxoplasma gondii manipulates the immune response by inhibiting or stimulating cytokines, suggesting the potential for controlling and maintaining a balanced immune system. Additionally, T. gondii also has the unique characteristic of being a so-called "Trojan horse" bacterium that can be used as a drug delivery system to treat regions that have been resistant to previous drug delivery therapies. In this study, we reviewed the potential of T. gondii in drug development and as a delivery system through current research on inflammation-regulating mechanisms in immune-mediated inflammatory diseases.

Bardoxolone methyl breaks the vicious cycle between M1 macrophages and senescent nucleus pulposus cells through the Nrf2/STING/NF-κB pathway

Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration (IDD), an age-related degenerative disease, is accompanied by the accumulation of senescent nucleus pulposus (NP) cells and extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation. The current study aims to clarify the role of M1 macrophages in the senescence of NP cells, and further explores whether bardoxolone methyl (CDDO-Me) can alleviate the pathological changes induced by M1 macrophages and relieve IDD. On the one hand, conditioned medium (CM) of M1 macrophages (M1CM) triggered senescence of NP cells and ECM degradation in a time-dependent manner. On the other hand, CM of senescent NP cells (S-NPCM) was collected to treat macrophages and we found that S-NPCM promoted the migration and M1-polarization of macrophages. However, both of the above effects can be partially blocked by CDDO-Me. We further explored the mechanism and found that M1CM promoted the expression level of STING and nuclear translocation of P65 in NP cells, while being restrained by CDDO-Me and STING inhibitor H151. In addition, the employment of Nrf2 inhibitor ML385 facilitated the expression level of STING and nuclear translocation of P65, thereby blocking the effects of CDDO-Me on suppressing senescence of NP cells and ECM degradation. In vivo, the injection of CDDO-Me into the disc decreased the infiltration of M1 macrophages and ameliorated degenerative manifestations in the puncture-induced rat IDD model. In conclusion, CDDO-Me was proved to break the vicious cycle between M1 macrophages and senescent NP cells through the Nrf2/STING/NF-κB pathway, thereby attenuating the progression of IDD.

Serum albumin mediates the associations between heavy metals and two novel systemic inflammation indexes among U.S. adults

BACKGROUND

The effects of heavy metal exposure on immunological function have sparked widespread concern, but unequivocal evidence on the association between mixed metal exposure and novel systemic inflammatory indexes remains scarce.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to analyze the associations of heavy metals with two novel systemic inflammation indexes and the mediated effects of serum albumin.

METHODS

Nineteen metals were detected among 4082 U.S. adults based on the NHANES. A linear regression, restricted cubic splines (RCS) regression, weighted quantile sum (WQS), Quantile-based Gcomputation (qgcomp), and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) were conducted to evaluate the associations of single metal and mixed metals with systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) and systemic inflammation response index (SIRI) levels, respectively. A series of subgroup analyses were used to identify potentially vulnerable populations. Furthermore, we conducted mediation analyses to investigate the mediated effects of serum albumin on the associations of metals with SII and SIRI.

RESULTS

In the single-exposure model, exposure to various metals such as urinary Co, As, and serum Zn, Cu was associated with SII and SIRI (PFDR<0.05). Simultaneously, the above metals were linear positively correlated with SII and SIRI. Mixed-exposure analyses consistently showed that overall mixed urinary metal levels were positively pertinent for SII and SIRI levels, and the metal Co played a significant role in the urinary metal mixtures. Subgroup analyses showed that exposure to urinary Cd in men and elderly people increased SII and SIRI levels. The results of mediation analyses suggested the association of urinary metal mixture with SII and SIRI was mediated by albumin, and the proportion of mediation was 14.45% and 9.49%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggested that metal exposure is strongly associated with the levels of system inflammation indexes and that serum albumin is, in part, a mediator of this association.

Genotoxin-producing Salmonella enterica induces tissue-specific types of DNA damage and DNA damage response outcomes

Introduction

Typhoid toxin-expressing Salmonella enterica causes DNA damage in the intestinal mucosa in vivo, activating the DNA damage response (DDR) in the absence of inflammation. To understand whether the tissue microenvironment constrains the infection outcome, we compared the immune response and DDR patterns in the colon and liver of mice infected with a genotoxigenic strain or its isogenic control strain.

Methods

In situ spatial transcriptomic and immunofluorescence have been used to assess DNA damage makers, activation of the DDR, innate immunity markers in a multiparametric analysis.

Result

The presence of the typhoid toxin protected from colonic bacteria-induced inflammation, despite nuclear localization of p53, enhanced co-expression of type-I interferons (IfnbI) and the inflammasome sensor Aim2, both classic features of DNA-break-induced DDR activation. These effects were not observed in the livers of either infected group. Instead, in this tissue, the inflammatory response and DDR were associated with high oxidative stress-induced DNA damage.

Conclusions

Our work highlights the relevance of the tissue microenvironment in enabling the typhoid toxin to suppress the host inflammatory response in vivo.

Rad51 and Systemic Inflammatory Indicators as Novel Prognostic Markers in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

BACKGROUND

RAD51 is a central protein involved in homologous recombination, which has been linked to cancer development and progression. systemic inflammatory indicator markers such as neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio have also been implicated in cancer. However, the relationship between Rad51 and these inflammatory markers in esophageal cancer patients undergoing esophagectomy is not yet understood.

METHODS

We retrospectively observed 320 esophageal cancer patients who underwent esophagectomy. We collected clinical characteristics, postoperative complications, and survival analysis data and analyzed the relationship between Rad51 expression, inflammatory markers, and prognosis.

RESULTS

We found significant linear relationships among the inflammatory markers. There were also close relationships between Rad51 expression and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio or C-reactive protein. Patients with low lymphocyte percentage were more likely to have low Rad51 expression (P = .026), high C-reactive protein (P = .007), and high neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (P = .006). Low lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio was associated with poor overall survival and was an independent prognostic factor (HR = 2.214; 95% confidence interval: 1.044-4.695, P = .038). In patients without lymph node metastases, low albumin (HR= 0.131; 95% confidence interval: 0.025-0.687, P = .016), high neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (HR = 0.002; 95% confidence interval: 0.000-0.221, P = .009), and high Rad51 expression (HR = 14.394; 95% confidence interval: 2.217-97.402, P = .006) were associated with poor overall survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study found a close correlation between elevated Rad51 expression and inflammatory markers. High Rad51 expression, high neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, and low lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio are associated with lower survival rates. The combined assessment of Rad51 and inflammatory markers can be useful for preoperative assessment and prognostic evaluation in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma patients.

Aurantio-obtusin exerts an anti-inflammatory effect on acute kidney injury by inhibiting NF-κB pathway

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is one of the major complications of sepsis. Aurantio-obtusin (AO) is an anthraquinone compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. This study was developed to concentrate on the role and mechanism of AO in sepsis-induced AKI. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated human renal proximal tubular epithelial cells (HK-2) and BALB/c mice receiving cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) surgery were used to establish in vitro cell model and in vivo mouse model. HK-2 cell viability was measured using MTT assays. Histological alterations of mouse renal tissues were analyzed via hematoxylin and eosin staining. Renal function of mice was assessed by measuring the levels of serum creatinine (SCr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN). The concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines in HK-2 cells and serum samples of mice were detected using corresponding ELISA kits. Protein levels of factors associated with nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) pathway were measured in HK-2 cells and renal tissues by Western blotting. AO exerted no cytotoxic effect on HK-2 cells and AO dose-dependently rescued LPS-induced decrease in HK-2 cell viability. The concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines were increased in response to LPS or CLP treatment, and the alterations were reversed by AO treatment. For in vivo experiments, AO markedly ameliorated renal injury and reduced high levels of SCr and BUN in mice underwent CLP operation. In addition, AO administration inhibited the activation of NF-κB signaling pathway in vitro and in vivo. In conclusion, AO alleviates septic AKI by suppressing inflammatory responses through inhibiting the NF-κB pathway.

The ticking of aging clocks

Computational models that measure biological age and aging rate regardless of chronological age are called aging clocks. The underlying counting mechanisms of the intrinsic timers of these clocks are still unclear. Molecular mediators and determinants of aging rate point to the key roles of DNA damage, epigenetic drift, and inflammation. Persistent DNA damage leads to cellular senescence and the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), which induces cytotoxic immune cell infiltration; this further induces DNA damage through reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS). I discuss the possibility that DNA damage (or the response to it, including epigenetic changes) is the fundamental counting unit of cell cycles and cellular senescence, that ultimately accounts for cell composition changes and functional decline in tissues, as well as the key intervention points.

Niosomal formulation of mefenamic acid for enhanced cancer targeting; preparation, characterization and biodistribution study using radiolabeling technique

BACKGROUND

This work aimed to prepare niosomal formulations of an anticancer agent [mefenamic acid (MEF)] to enhance its cancer targeting. 131I was utilized as a radiolabeling isotope to study the radio-kinetics of MEF niosomes.

METHODS

niosomal formulations were prepared by the ether injection method and assessed for entrapment efficiency (EE%), zeta potential (ZP), polydispersity index (PDI) and particle size (PS). MEF was labeled with 131I by direct electrophilic substitution reaction through optimization of radiolabeling-related parameters. In the radio-kinetic study, the optimal 131I-MEF niosomal formula was administered intravenously (I.V.) to solid tumor-bearing mice and compared to I.V. 131I-MEF solution as a control.

RESULTS

the average PS and ZP values of the optimal formulation were 247.23 ± 2.32 nm and - 28.3 ± 1.21, respectively. The highest 131I-MEF labeling yield was 98.7 ± 0.8%. The biodistribution study revealed that the highest tumor uptake of 131I-MEF niosomal formula and 131I-MEF solution at 60 min post-injection were 2.73 and 1.94% ID/g, respectively.

CONCLUSION

MEF-loaded niosomes could be a hopeful candidate in cancer treatment due to their potent tumor uptake. Such high targeting was attributed to passive targeting of the nanosized niosomes and confirmed by radiokinetic evaluation.

Role of rs873601 Polymorphisms in Prognosis of Lung Cancer Patients Treated with Platinum-Based Chemotherapy

BACKGROUND

Lung cancer is still the most lethal malignancy in the world, according to the report of Cancer Statistics in 2021. Platinum-based chemotherapy combined with immunotherapy is the first-line treatment in lung cancer patients. However, the 5-year survival rate is always affected by the adverse reactions and drug resistance caused by platinum-based chemotherapy. DNA damage and repair system is one of the important mechanisms that can affect the response to chemotherapy and clinical outcomes in lung cancer patients.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study is to find the relationship between the polymorphisms of DNA repair genes with the prognosis of platinum-based chemotherapy in lung cancer patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We performed genotyping in 17 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of Excision Repair Cross-Complementation group (ERCC) genes and X-ray Repair Cross-Complementing (XRCC) genes of 345 lung cancer patients via Sequenom MassARRAY. We used Cox proportional hazard models, state, and plink to analyze the associations between SNPs and the prognosis of lung cancer patients.

RESULTS

We found that the ERCC5 rs873601 was associated with the overall survival time in lung cancer patients treated with platinum-based chemotherapy (p = 0.031). There were some polymorphisms that were related to the prognosis in specific subgroups of lung cancer. Rs873601 showed a great influence on the prognosis of patients more than 55 years, Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC), and smoking patients. Rs2444933 was associated with prognosis in age less than 55 years, SCLC, metastasis, and stage III/IV/ED patients. Rs3740051 played an important role in the prognosis of SCLC and metastasis patients. Rs1869641 was involved in the prognosis of SCLC patients. Rs1051685 was related to the prognosis in non-metastasis patients.

CONCLUSION

The ERCC5 rs873601 (G>A) was a valuable biomarker for predicting the prognosis in lung cancer patients treated with platinum-based chemotherapy.

Reduced FOXF1 links unrepaired DNA damage to pulmonary arterial hypertension

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a progressive disease in which pulmonary arterial (PA) endothelial cell (EC) dysfunction is associated with unrepaired DNA damage. BMPR2 is the most common genetic cause of PAH. We report that human PAEC with reduced BMPR2 have persistent DNA damage in room air after hypoxia (reoxygenation), as do mice with EC-specific deletion of Bmpr2 (EC-Bmpr2-/-) and persistent pulmonary hypertension. Similar findings are observed in PAEC with loss of the DNA damage sensor ATM, and in mice with Atm deleted in EC (EC-Atm-/-). Gene expression analysis of EC-Atm-/- and EC-Bmpr2-/- lung EC reveals reduced Foxf1, a transcription factor with selectivity for lung EC. Reducing FOXF1 in control PAEC induces DNA damage and impaired angiogenesis whereas transfection of FOXF1 in PAH PAEC repairs DNA damage and restores angiogenesis. Lung EC targeted delivery of Foxf1 to reoxygenated EC-Bmpr2-/- mice repairs DNA damage, induces angiogenesis and reverses pulmonary hypertension.

A Network Pharmacology and Molecular-Docking-Based Approach to Identify the Probable Targets of Short-Chain Fatty-Acid-Producing Microbial Metabolites against Kidney Cancer and Inflammation

(1) Background: A large and diverse microbial population exists in the human intestinal tract, which supports gut homeostasis and the health of the host. Short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-secreting microbes also generate several metabolites with favorable regulatory effects on various malignancies and immunological inflammations. The involvement of intestinal SCFAs in kidney diseases, such as various kidney malignancies and inflammations, has emerged as a fascinating area of study in recent years. However, the mechanisms of SCFAs and other metabolites produced by SCFA-producing bacteria against kidney cancer and inflammation have not yet been investigated. (2) Methods: We considered 177 different SCFA-producing microbial species and 114 metabolites from the gutMgene database. Further, we used different online-based database platforms to predict 1890 gene targets associated with metabolites. Moreover, DisGeNET, OMIM, and Genecard databases were used to consider 13,104 disease-related gene targets. We used a Venn diagram and various protein-protein interactions (PPIs), KEGG pathways, and GO analyses for the functional analysis of gene targets. Moreover, the subnetwork of protein-protein interactions (through string and cytoscape platforms) was used to select the top 20% of gene targets through degree centrality, betweenness centrality, and closeness centrality. To screen the possible candidate compounds, we performed an analysis of the ADMET (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity) properties of metabolites and then found the best binding affinity using molecular docking simulation. (3) Results: Finally, we found the key gene targets that interact with suitable compounds and function against kidney cancer and inflammation, such as MTOR (with glycocholic acid), PIK3CA (with 11-methoxycurvularin, glycocholic acid, and isoquercitrin), IL6 (with isoquercitrin), PTGS2 (with isoquercitrin), and IGF1R (with 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b] pyridine, isoquercitrin), showed a lower binding affinity. (4) Conclusions: This study provides evidence to support the positive effects of SCFA-producing microbial metabolites that function against kidney cancer and inflammation and makes integrative research proposals that may be used to guide future studies.

The Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of the Main Carotenoids from Tomatoes via Nrf2 and NF-κB Signaling Pathways

Oxidative stress and inflammation are crucial factors in the development of cardiovascular diseases. In previous research, the oxidative stress and inflammation models have frequently been explored independently. In the current study, we investigated the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of tomato extract and its two main carotenoids (lutein and lycopene) with various concentrations using a rat cardiomyocyte model of co-existing oxidative stress and persistent chronic inflammation. It was discovered that the antioxidant effects of 0.5-5 μM lutein, 0.5-5 μM lycopene, and 50-200 μg/mL tomato extract increased in a dose-dependent manner. However, the pro-oxidation effects emerged by measuring the antioxidant-related indices, including the levels of ROS, SOD, and GPX in H9c2 cells as concentrations exceeded those mentioned above. The anti-inflammatory effects of lutein, lycopene, and tomato extract were simultaneously strengthened with higher concentrations, potentially due to the suppression of the NF-κB signaling pathway. Furthermore, high concentrations of lutein, lycopene, and tomato extract potentially regulated Nrf2/HO-1 and NF-κB signaling pathways dependent on TGF-1β and IL-10 to demonstrate high concentrations of pro-oxidation and anti-inflammation effects. Our findings indicate that the dose-effect regulatory mechanisms of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties among lutein, lycopene, and tomato extract will be advantageous in developing more effective therapeutic strategies to prevent cardiovascular diseases.

Lactobacillus coryniformis subsp. torquens T3 alleviates non-alcoholic fatty liver disease via reconstruction of the gut microbiota and redox system

BACKGROUND

A high-fat diet (HFD) that induces obesity has become the most common type of diet worldwide, leading to serious global health issues. Obesity is associated with an increased risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Probiotic supplements have been shown to help alleviate obesity. The present study aimed to investigate the mechanism by which Lactobacillus coryniformis supsp. torquens T3 (T3L) alleviated NAFLD induced by HFD via reconstruction of the gut microbiota and redox system.

RESULTS

The results showed that, compared with the HFD group, T3L inhibited obesity and relieved fat accumulation in the liver of mice with NAFLD. In addition, T3L inhibited liver inflammation and oxidative stress injury in NAFLD mice by regulating the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) inflammatory pathway in the liver. Furthermore, T3L changed the composition of the intestinal flora, reduced the abundance of harmful bacteria in the intestinal tract, enhanced the mechanical function of the intestinal barrier, and increased the short-chain fatty acid contents, thus inhibiting the secondary metabolite LPS, which directly causes liver damage through the portal vein.

CONCLUSION

In summary, T3L ameliorated NAFLD induced by obesity through the liver-gut axis pathway, thus reducing oxidative stress and liver injury. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

MicroRNAs as the critical regulators of tumor angiogenesis in liver cancer

Liver cancer is one of the most common malignancies in human digestive system. Despite the recent therapeutic methods, there is a high rate of mortality among liver cancer patients. Late diagnosis in the advanced tumor stages can be one of the main reasons for the poor prognosis in these patients. Therefore, investigating the molecular mechanisms of liver cancer can be helpful for the early stage tumor detection and treatment. Vascular expansion in liver tumors can be one of the important reasons for poor prognosis and aggressiveness. Therefore, anti-angiogenic drugs are widely used in liver cancer patients. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have key roles in the regulation of angiogenesis in liver tumors. Due to the high stability of miRNAs in body fluids, these factors are widely used as the non-invasive diagnostic and prognostic markers in cancer patients. Regarding, the importance of angiogenesis during liver tumor growth and invasion, in the present review, we discussed the role of miRNAs in regulation of angiogenesis in these tumors. It has been reported that miRNAs mainly exert an anti-angiogenic function by regulation of tumor microenvironment, transcription factors, and signaling pathways in liver tumors. This review can be an effective step to suggest the miRNAs for the non-invasive early detection of malignant and invasive liver tumors.

A pan-tissue survey of mosaic chromosomal alterations in 948 individuals

Genetic mutations accumulate in an organism's body throughout its lifetime. While somatic single-nucleotide variants have been well characterized in the human body, the patterns and consequences of large chromosomal alterations in normal tissues remain largely unknown. Here, we present a pan-tissue survey of mosaic chromosomal alterations (mCAs) in 948 healthy individuals from the Genotype-Tissue Expression project, augmenting RNA-based allelic imbalance estimation with haplotype phasing. We found that approximately a quarter of the individuals carry a clonally-expanded mCA in at least one tissue, with incidence strongly correlated with age. The prevalence and genome-wide patterns of mCAs vary considerably across tissue types, suggesting tissue-specific mutagenic exposure and selection pressures. The mCA landscapes in normal adrenal and pituitary glands resemble those in tumors arising from these tissues, whereas the same is not true for the esophagus and skin. Together, our findings show a widespread age-dependent emergence of mCAs across normal human tissues with intricate connections to tumorigenesis.

Influence of pathogens on host genome and epigenome in development of head and neck cancer

BACKGROUND

Head and neck cancer (HNSCC) is a heterogeneous group of cancers, affecting multiple regions such as oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, and nasal region, each showing a distinct molecular profile. HNSCC accounts for more than 6 million cases worldwide, soaring mainly in the developing countries.

RECENT FINDINGS

The aetiology of HNSCC is complex and multifactorial, involving both genetic and environmental factors. The critical role of microbiome, which includes bacteria, viruses, and fungi, is under spotlight due to the recent reports on their contribution in the development and progression of HNSCC. This review focuses on the effect of opportunistic pathogens on the host genome and epigenome, which contributes to the disease progression. Drawing parallels from the host-pathogen interactions observed in other tumour types arising from the epithelial tissue such as colorectal cancer, the review also calls attention to the potential explorations of the role of pathogens in HNSCC biology and discusses the clinical implications of microbiome research in detection and treatment of HNSCC.

CONCLUSION

Our understanding of the genomic effects of the microbes on the disease progression and the mechanistic insights of the host-pathogen interaction will pave way to novel treatment and preventive approaches in HNSCC.

One-Step Automatic Radiosynthesis and Evaluation of [18F]TM-30089 as GPR44 Radiotracer

Recently, a G-protein coupled receptor 44 (GPR44) was discovered to play a significant role in the process of inflammation-related diseases, including cancer and diabetes. However, the precise role of GPR44 has yet to be fully elucidated. Currently, there is a strong and urgent need for the development of GPR44 radiotracers as a non-invasive methodology to explore the exact mechanism of GPR44 on inflammation-related diseases and monitor the progress of therapy. TM-30089 is a potent GPR44 antagonist that exhibits a high specificity and selectivity for GPR44. Its structure contains a fluorine nuclide, which could potentially be replaced with 18F. In the present study, we successfully took a highly effective synthesis strategy that pretreated the unprotected carboxylic acid group of the precursor and developed a feasible one-step automatic radiosynthesis strategy for [18F]TM-30089 with a high radiochemical purity and a good radiochemical yield. We further evaluated this radiotracer using mice models implanted with 1.1 B4 cell lines (GPR44-enriched cell lines) and human islets (high GPR44 expression), respectively. The results revealed the persistent and specific uptake of [18F]TM-30089 in GPR44 region, indicating that [18F]TM-30089 is a promising candidate for targeting GPR44. Further evaluation is ongoing.

Risk of head and neck cancer in relation to blood inflammatory biomarkers in the Swedish AMORIS cohort

Background

Inflammation is critically involved in the development of human cancer, and blood inflammatory biomarkers have been proposed to indicate the risk of different cancer types.

Methods

Using the Swedish Apolipoprotein-Related Mortality Risk (AMORIS) Cohort (N=812,073), we first performed a time-to-event analysis to evaluate the association of the baseline level of 12 blood inflammatory biomarkers measured during 1985-1996 with the subsequent risk of head and neck cancer (HNC) identified through the nationwide Swedish Cancer Register until end of 2020. A nested case-control study was further conducted to demonstrate the longitudinal trends of the studied biomarkers during the 30-year period prior to diagnosis of HNC.

Results

In the time-to-event analysis, we identified a total of 2,510 newly diagnosed HNC cases. There was an increased risk of HNC per standard deviation (SD) increase of haptoglobin (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.25; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.21-1.30), leukocytes (HR: 1.22; 95%CI: 1.17-1.28), sedimentation rate (HR: 1.17; 95%CI: 1.07-1.29), and monocytes (HR: 1.34; 95%CI: 1.07-1.68) at baseline, after adjustment for age, sex, fasting status, occupational status, and country of birth. In contrast, there was a decreased risk of HNC per SD increase of lymphocytes in % (HR: 0.85; 95%CI: 0.73-0.99) and lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR) (HR: 0.81; 95%CI: 0.69-0.95) at baseline. In the nested case-control study using repeatedly measured biomarker levels, we found that individuals with HNC had consistently higher levels of haptoglobin, leukocytes, sedimentation rate, and monocytes, as well as consistently lower levels of lymphocytes in % and LMR, during the 30-year period prior to diagnosis, compared to controls.

Conclusion

Based on a cohort of more than half a million participants with up to 35 years of follow-up, our findings provide solid evidence supporting the presence of alterations in blood inflammatory biomarkers during the decades before diagnosis of HNC.

"Slow kill" treatment reduces DNA damage in leukocytes of dogs naturally infected with Dirofilaria immitis

Parasitic diseases are considered to be a cause of oxidative stress which leads to oxidative damage of various molecules including DNA. This can result in mutations, replication errors, and genome instability. Therefore, aim of this study was to measure DNA damage induced by Dirofilaria immitis in the single cells such as dogs' leukocytes using the comet assay. Also, we monitored the effects of antiparasitic treatment on mitigation of sensitivity to DNA damage in leukocytes treated with H2O2 using the in vivo and ex vivo comet assay. The whole blood samples from 34 dogs from Serbia were used, both males and females, from one to 13 years old, both pure and mixed-breeds. A rapid immunochromatographic test (Antigen Rapid Heartworm Ag 2.0 Test Kit, Bionote, Minnesota, USA) was used for the detection of D. immitis antigens. The modified Knott's test and PCR were used in the aim of detecting D. immitis microfilariae in dogs' blood, and evaluating the number of circulating microfilariae during the treatment. The genotoxicity evaluation showed that D. immitis infection resulted in DNA damage in naturally infected dogs, with the highest DNA damage occurring in the group of dogs with severe clinical signs. Treatment with ivermectin and doxycycline decreased DNA damage in leukocytes of dogs in all groups, as the intensity of infection decreased due to applied therapy. Ex vivo comet assay results showed that leukocytes exhibited decreased sensitivity to H2O2-induced DNA damage during treatment. The results of the modified Knott's test and PCR in our study showed that treatment with ivermectin and doxycycline was successful in decreasing the average number of microfilariae during the time and at the end eliminating them from the dogs' blood.

Role of neutrophils on cancer cells and other immune cells in the tumor microenvironment

The notion that neutrophils only perform a specific set of single functions in the body has changed with the advancement of research methods. As the most abundant myeloid cells in human blood, neutrophils are currently emerging as important regulators of cancer. Given the duality of neutrophils, neutrophil-based tumor therapy has been clinically carried out in recent years and has made some progress. But due to the complexity of the tumor microenvironment, the therapeutic effect is still not satisfactory. Therefore, in this review, we discuss the direct interaction of neutrophils with the five most common cancer cells and other immune cells in the tumor microenvironment. Also, this review covered current limitations, potential future possibilities, and therapeutic approaches targeting neutrophil function in cancer therapy.

Base Excision Repair: Mechanisms and Impact in Biology, Disease, and Medicine

Base excision repair (BER) corrects forms of oxidative, deamination, alkylation, and abasic single-base damage that appear to have minimal effects on the helix. Since its discovery in 1974, the field has grown in several facets: mechanisms, biology and physiology, understanding deficiencies and human disease, and using BER genes as potential inhibitory targets to develop therapeutics. Within its segregation of short nucleotide (SN-) and long patch (LP-), there are currently six known global mechanisms, with emerging work in transcription- and replication-associated BER. Knockouts (KOs) of BER genes in mouse models showed that single glycosylase knockout had minimal phenotypic impact, but the effects were clearly seen in double knockouts. However, KOs of downstream enzymes showed critical impact on the health and survival of mice. BER gene deficiency contributes to cancer, inflammation, aging, and neurodegenerative disorders. Medicinal targets are being developed for single or combinatorial therapies, but only PARP and APE1 have yet to reach the clinical stage.

Influence of Body Mass Index and Duration of Disease on Chromosome Damage in Lymphocytes of Patients with Diabetes

It is well-established that patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) have a higher incidence of several types of cancer. The precise mechanisms of this association are still unknown, but obesity and chronic inflammation-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) are thought to be the main risk factors. ROS may produce different DNA damage, which could eventually lead to cancer. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the relation of chromosome aberrations (CA) with disease status, demographics, and clinical parameters in 33 subjects with type 1 DM (T1DM), 22 subjects with type 2 DM (T2DM), and 21 controls. CAs were analyzed in cultured peripheral blood lymphocytes and subdivided into chromatid (CTA)- and chromosome (CSA)-type aberrations. Compared with controls, higher levels of CTAs and CSAs were observed in T1DM (p = 0.0053 and p = 0.0203, respectively) and T2DM (p = 0.0133 and p = 0.00002, respectively). While there was no difference in CTAs between T1DM and T2DM, CSAs were higher in T2DM (p = 0.0173). A significant positive association between CTAs and disease duration (rs = 0.2938, p = 0.0099) and between CSAs and disease duration (rs = 0.4306, p = 0.0001), age (rs = 0.3932, p = 0.0004), and body mass index (BMI) (rs = 0.3502, p = 0.0019) was revealed. After multiple regression analysis, duration of disease remained significant for CTA, CSA, and CAs (p = 0.0042, p = 0.00003, and p = 0.00002, respectively). For CSA, BMI and the use of statins were the other important confounding variables (p = 0.0105 and p = 0.0763). Thus, this study demonstrated that both T1DM and T2DM patients had a higher number of all types of aberrations than controls, which increases with the prolonged disease duration. Higher BMI was associated with a higher frequency of CSA. The use of statins might be beneficial for reducing chromosome damage, but further investigations are needed to confirm this association.