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Lu HJ, Koju N, Sheng R. Mammalian integrated stress responses in stressed organelles and their functions. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2024; 45:1095-1114. [PMID: 38267546 PMCID: PMC11130345 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-023-01225-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The integrated stress response (ISR) triggered in response to various cellular stress enables mammalian cells to effectively cope with diverse stressful conditions while maintaining their normal functions. Four kinases (PERK, PKR, GCN2, and HRI) of ISR regulate ISR signaling and intracellular protein translation via mediating the phosphorylation of eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2 α (eIF2α) at Ser51. Early ISR creates an opportunity for cells to repair themselves and restore homeostasis. This effect, however, is reversed in the late stages of ISR. Currently, some studies have shown the non-negligible impact of ISR on diseases such as ischemic diseases, cognitive impairment, metabolic syndrome, cancer, vanishing white matter, etc. Hence, artificial regulation of ISR and its signaling with ISR modulators becomes a promising therapeutic strategy for relieving disease symptoms and improving clinical outcomes. Here, we provide an overview of the essential mechanisms of ISR and describe the ISR-related pathways in organelles including mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and lysosomes. Meanwhile, the regulatory effects of ISR modulators and their potential application in various diseases are also enumerated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao-Jun Lu
- Department of Pharmacology and Laboratory of Aging and Nervous Diseases, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Nirmala Koju
- Department of Pharmacology and Laboratory of Aging and Nervous Diseases, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Rui Sheng
- Department of Pharmacology and Laboratory of Aging and Nervous Diseases, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China.
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2
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Ge K, Du X, Liu H, Meng R, Wu C, Zhang Z, Liang X, Yang J, Zhang H. The cytotoxicity of microcystin-LR: ultrastructural and functional damage of cells. Arch Toxicol 2024; 98:663-687. [PMID: 38252150 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-023-03676-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Microcystin-LR (MC-LR) is a toxin produced by cyanobacteria, which is widely distributed in eutrophic water bodies and has multi-organ toxicity. Previous cytotoxicity studies have mostly elucidated the effects of MC-LR on intracellular-related factors, proteins, and DNA at the molecular level. However, there have been few studies on the adverse effects of MC-LR on cell ultrastructure and function. Therefore, research on the cytotoxicity of MC-LR in recent years was collected and summarized. It was found that MC-LR can induce a series of cytotoxic effects, including decreased cell viability, induced autophagy, apoptosis and necrosis, altered cell cycle, altered cell morphology, abnormal cell migration and invasion as well as leading to genetic damage. The above cytotoxic effects were related to the damage of various ultrastructure and functions such as cell membranes and mitochondria. Furthermore, MC-LR can disrupt cell ultrastructure and function by inducing oxidative stress and inhibiting protein phosphatase activity. In addition, the combined toxic effects of MC-LR and other environmental pollutants were investigated. This review explored the toxic targets of MC-LR at the subcellular level, which will provide new ideas for the prevention and treatment of multi-organ toxicity caused by MC-LR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kangfeng Ge
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Xingde Du
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Haohao Liu
- Department of Public Health, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Ruiyang Meng
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Chunrui Wu
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Zongxin Zhang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Xiao Liang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Jun Yang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Huizhen Zhang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China.
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Dos Santos FCF, da Costa CS, Graceli JB. Effects of microcystin-LR on mammalian ovaries. Reprod Toxicol 2023; 120:108441. [PMID: 37473929 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2023.108441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
The ovaries play critical roles in regulating oocyte maturation and sex steroid hormone production and thus are critical for female reproduction. Ovarian function relies on hormone receptors and signaling pathways, making the ovaries potential targets for environmental factors, such as microcystins (MCs). MCs are a diverse group of cyanobacterial toxins generally found in eutrophic water or algal blooms. Here, we review relevant research on the associations between MC exposure and ovarian dysfunction, including their effects on ovarian morphology, folliculogenesis, steroid production, oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum stress, apoptosis, autophagy, and fertility. This review covers the most recent in vitro and in vivo studies in mammals. We also discuss important gaps in the literature. Overall, current evidence indicates that MC exposure causes impairments in ovarian function, but further studies are needed to elucidate the mechanisms through which MCs affect ovarian function and other female endocrine functions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Charles S da Costa
- Department of Morphology, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitória, Brazil
| | - Jones B Graceli
- Department of Morphology, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitória, Brazil.
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Veerabadhran M, Manivel N, Sarvalingam B, Seenivasan B, Srinivasan H, Davoodbasha M, Yang F. State-of-the-art review on the ecotoxicology, health hazards, and economic loss of the impact of microcystins and their ultrastructural cellular changes. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2023; 256:106417. [PMID: 36805195 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2023.106417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Cyanobacteria are ubiquitously globally present in both freshwater and marine environments. Ample reports have been documented by researchers worldwide for pros and cons of cyanobacterial toxins. The implications of cyanobacterial toxin on health have received much attention in recent decades. Microcystins (MCs) represent the unique class of toxic metabolites produced by cyanobacteria. Although the beneficial aspects of cyanobacterial are numerous, the deleterious effect of MCs overlooked. Several studies on MCs evidently reported that MCs exhibit a plethora of harmful effect on animals, plants, and cell lines. Accordingly, numerous histopathological studies have also found that MCs cause detrimental effects to cells by damaging cellular organelles, including nuclear envelope, Golgi apparatus, endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria, plastids, flagellum, pilus membrane structures and integrity, vesicle structures, and autolysosomes and autophagosomes. Such ultrastructural cellular damages holistically influence the morphological, biochemical, physiological, and genetic status of the host. Indeed, MCs have also been found to cause the deleterious effect to different animals and plants. Such deleterious effects of MCs have greater impact on agriculture, public health which in turn influences ecotoxicology and economic consequences. The impairments correspond to oxidative stress, organ failure, carcinogenesis, aquaculture loss, with an emphasis for blooms and respective bioaccumulation prospects. The preservation of mortality among life forms is addressed in a critical cellular perspective for multitude benefits. The comprehensive cellular assessment could provide opportunity to develop strategy for therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maruthanayagam Veerabadhran
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Typical Environmental Pollution and Health Hazards, School of Public Health, University of South China, Hengyang, China; Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Hunan 410078, China
| | - Nagarajan Manivel
- ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Chennai 600 0028, India
| | - Barathkumar Sarvalingam
- National Centre for Coastal Research (NCCR), Ministry of Earth Science, NIOT Campus, Chennai 600100, India
| | - Boopathi Seenivasan
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Science and Humanities, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai, India
| | - Hemalatha Srinivasan
- School of Life Sciences, B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai 600 0048, India
| | - MubarakAli Davoodbasha
- School of Life Sciences, B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai 600 0048, India.
| | - Fei Yang
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Typical Environmental Pollution and Health Hazards, School of Public Health, University of South China, Hengyang, China.
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Zhang D, Huang L, Jia Y, Zhang S, Bi X, Dai W. Integrated analysis of mRNA and microRNA expression profiles in hepatopancreas of Litopenaeus vannamei under acute exposure to MC-LR. Front Genet 2023; 14:1088191. [PMID: 36741320 PMCID: PMC9892846 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1088191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Intensive shrimp farming is often threatened by microcystins Hepatopancreas is the primary target organ of MCs in shrimp. To investigate the response of hepatopancreas to acute MC-LR exposure, the expression profiles of RNA-seq and miRNA-seq in the hepatopancreas of L. vannamei were determined, and data integration analysis was performed at 72 h after MC-LR injection. The expression of 5 DEGs and three DEMs were detected by Quantitative PCR (qPCR). The results showed that the cumulative mortality rate of shrimp in MC-LR treatment group was 41.1%. A total of 1229 differentially expressed genes (844 up- and 385 down-regulated) and 86 differentially expressed miRNAs (40 up- and 46 down-regulated) were identified after MC-LR exposure. Functional analysis indicated that DEGs is mainly involved in the oxidative activity process in molecular functional categories, and proteasome was the most enriched KEGG pathway for mRNAs profile. According to the functional annotation of target genes of DEMs, protein binding was the most important term in the GO category, and protein processing in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) was the most enriched KEGG pathway. The regulatory network of miRNAs and DEGs involved in the pathway related to protein degradation in endoplasmic reticulum was constructed, and miR-181-5p regulated many genes in this pathway. The results of qPCR showed that there were significant differences in the expression of five DEGs and three DEMs, which might play an important role in the toxicity and hepatopancreas detoxification of MC-LR in shrimp. The results revealed that MC-LR exposure affected the degradation pathway of misfolded protein in ER of L. vannamei hepatopancreas, and miR-181-5p might play an important role in the effect of MC-LR on the degradation pathway of misfolded protein.
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Lin Y, An R, Wu C, Liu H, Deng J, Tan H, Chen L, Chen M, Ma S. Serum microcystin-LR levels and risk of gestational diabetes mellitus: A Chinese nested case-control study. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 13:1047866. [PMID: 36686476 PMCID: PMC9846061 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1047866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Previous experimental studies have reported an association between microcystin-LR (MC-LR) and glucose homeostasis, but whether exposure to MC-LR is a risk factor for the pathogenesis of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) requires further epidemiological study. This study aims to explore the effects of MC-LR on GDM. Methods A prospective nested case-control study was performed in the Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Hospital (HPMCHH) in South China. A total of 119 patients with GDM and 238 controls were enrolled in the study. The two independent samples t-test, or chi-square test was used to compare the difference between the GDM group and the non-GDM group. Binary logistic regression was used to obtain odds ratios (ORs) by controlling for confounders. Results The cumulative incidence of GDM in our sample was 13.7%. The detection rate of MC-LR in the GDM group were significantly higher than those in the control group (44.2% vs. 29.4%; p=0.007). Our results show that an elevated serum MC-LR level in the first trimester of pregnancy was related to an increased risk of GDM (OR: 1.924; 95% CI: 1.092-3.391; p<0.05). When stratified by age, educational level, parity, and passive smoking, significantly relationships were observed among those aged >30 years, lower income, higher education, none passive smoking, and more likely to be multiparous. Conclusions Our data reveals that serum MC-LR level in the first trimester is independently associated with GDM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Lin
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Rongjing An
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Chunli Wu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Huixia Liu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jing Deng
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hongzhuan Tan
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lizhang Chen
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Mengshi Chen
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Shujuan Ma
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Clinical Research Center For Reproduction and Genetics In Hunan Province, Changsha, China
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Zhang S, Liu H, Du X, Chen X, Petlulu P, Tian Z, Shi L, Zhang B, Yuan S, Guo X, Wang Y, Guo H, Zhang H. A new identity of microcystins: Environmental endocrine disruptors? An evidence-based review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 851:158262. [PMID: 36029820 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.158262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Microcystins (MCs) are widely distributed cyanobacterial toxins in eutrophic waters. At present, the endocrine-disrupting effects of MCs have been extensively studied, but whether MCs can be classified as environmental endocrine disruptors (EDCs) is still unclear. This review is aimed to evaluate the rationality for MCs as to be classified as EDCs based on the available evidence. It has been identified that MCs meet eight of ten key characteristics of chemicals that can be classified as EDCs. MCs interfere with the six processes, including synthesis, release, circulation, metabolism, binding and action of natural hormones in the body. Also, they are fit two other characteristics of EDC: altering the fate of producing/responding cells and epigenetic modification. Further evidence indicates that the endocrine-disrupting effect of MCs may be an important cause of adverse health outcomes such as metabolic disorders, reproductive disorders and effects on the growth and development of offspring. Generally, MCs have endocrine-disrupting properties, suggesting that it is reasonable for them to be considered EDCs. This is of great importance in understanding and evaluating the harm done by MCs on humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyu Zhang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China; Quality Control Department, Ninth Hospital of Xi'an, Shanxi, China
| | - Haohao Liu
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Xingde Du
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Xinghai Chen
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, St Mary's University, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | | | - Zhihui Tian
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Linjia Shi
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Bingyu Zhang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Shumeng Yuan
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Xing Guo
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yongshui Wang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Hongxiang Guo
- College of Life Sciences, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
| | - Huizhen Zhang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
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Ma Y, Liu H, Du X, Shi Z, Liu X, Wang R, Zhang S, Tian Z, Shi L, Guo H, Zhang H. Advances in the toxicology research of microcystins based on Omics approaches. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2021; 154:106661. [PMID: 34077854 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2021.106661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Microcystins (MCs) are the most widely distributed cyanotoxins, which can be ingested by animals and human body in multiple ways, resulting in a threat to human health and the biodiversity of wildlife. Therefore, the study on toxic effects and mechanisms of MCs is one of the focuses of attention. Recently, the Omics techniques, i.e. genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics, have significantly contributed to the comprehensive understanding and revealing of the molecular mechanisms about the toxicity of MCs. This paper mainly reviews current literature using the Omics approaches to explore the toxicity mechanism of MCs in liver, gonad, spleen, brain, intestine and lung of multiple species. It was found that MCs can exert strong toxic effects on various metabolic activities and cell signal transduction in cell cycle, apoptosis, destruction of cell cytoskeleton and redox disorder, at protein, transcription and metabolism level. Meanwhile, it was also revealed that the alteration of non-coding RNAs (miRNA, circRNA and lncRNA, etc.) and gut microbiota plays an essential regulatory role in the toxic effects of MCs, especially in hepatotoxicity and reproductive toxicity. In addition, we summarized current research gaps and pointed out the future directions for research. The detailed information in this paper shows that the application and development of Omics techniques have significantly promoted the research on MCs toxicity, and it is also a valuable resource for exploring the toxic mechanism of MCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya Ma
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, PR China
| | - Haohao Liu
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, PR China
| | - Xingde Du
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, PR China
| | - Ziang Shi
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, PR China
| | - Xiaohui Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, PR China
| | - Rui Wang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, PR China
| | - Shiyu Zhang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, PR China
| | - Zhihui Tian
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, PR China
| | - Linjia Shi
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, PR China
| | - Hongxiang Guo
- College of Life Sciences, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, PR China
| | - Huizhen Zhang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, PR China.
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Du X, Liu H, Liu X, Chen X, Yuan L, Ma Y, Huang H, Wang Y, Wang R, Zhang S, Tian Z, Shi L, Zhang H. Microcystin-LR induces ovarian injury and apoptosis in mice via activating apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1-mediated P38/JNK pathway. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2021; 213:112066. [PMID: 33610944 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2021.112066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
As an emerging pollutant in the aquatic environment, microcystin-LR (MC-LR) can enter the body through multiple pathways, and then induce apoptosis and gonadal damage, affecting reproductive function. Previous studies focused on male reproductive toxicity induced by MC-LR neglecting its effects on females. The apoptotic signal-regulated kinase 1 (ASK1) is an upstream protein of P38/JNK pathway, closely associated with apoptosis and organ damage. However, the role of ASK1 in MC-LR-induced reproductive toxicity is unclear. Therefore, this study investigated the role of ASK1 in mouse ovarian injury and apoptosis induced by MC-LR. After MC-LR exposure, ASK1 expression in mouse ovarian granulosa cells was increased at the protein and mRNA levels, and decreased following pretreatment by antioxidant N-acetylcysteine, suggesting that MC-LR-induced oxidative stress has a regulatory role in ASK1 expression. Inhibition of ASK1 expression with siASK1 and NQDI-1 could effectively alleviate MC-LR-induced mitochondrial membrane potential damage and apoptosis in ovarian granulosa cells, as well as pathological damage, apoptosis and the decreased gonadal index in ovaries of C57BL/6 mice. Moreover, the P38/JNK pathway and downstream apoptosis-related proteins (P-P38, P-JNK, P-P53, Fas) and genes (MKK4, MKK3, Ddit3, Mef2c) were activated in vivo and vitro, but their activation was restrained after ASK1 inhibition. Data presented herein suggest that the ASK1-mediated P38/JNK pathway is involved in ovarian injury and apoptosis induced by MC-LR in mice. It is confirmed that ASK1 has an important role in MC-LR-induced ovarian injury, which provides new insights for preventing MCs-induced reproductive toxicity in females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingde Du
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Haohao Liu
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Xiaohui Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Xinghai Chen
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, St Mary's University, San Antonio, TX 78228, USA
| | - Le Yuan
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Ya Ma
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Hui Huang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Yueqin Wang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Rui Wang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Shiyu Zhang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Zhihui Tian
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Linjia Shi
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Huizhen Zhang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China.
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Huang P, Chen K, Ma T, Cao N, Weng D, Xu C, Xu L. The effects of short-term treatment of microcystin-LR on the insulin pathway in both the HL7702 cell line and livers of mice. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2020; 35:727-737. [PMID: 32073747 DOI: 10.1002/tox.22907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Revised: 12/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Our previous work indicated exposure of Human liver cell 7702 (HL7702) cells to Microcystin-leucine-arginine (MC-LR) for 24 hours can disrupt insulin (INS) signaling by the hyperphosphorylation of specific proteins. For further exploring the time-dependent effect posed by MC-LR on this pathway, in the current study, HL7702 cells together with mice were exposed to the MC-LR with different concentrations under short-term treatment, and then, protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) activity and expression of proteins related to INS signaling, as well as the characteristics of their action in the liver, were investigated. The results indicated, in HL7702 cells with 0.5, 1, and 6 hours of treatment by MC-LR, PP2A activity showed an obvious decrease in a time and concentration-dependent manner. While the total protein level of Akt, glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK-3), and glycogen synthase remained unchanged, GSK-3 and Akt phosphorylation increased significantly. In livers of mice with 1 hour of intraperitoneal injection with MC-LR, a similar change in these proteins was observed. In addition, the levels of total IRS1 and p-IRS1 at serine sites showed decreasing and increasing trends,respectively, and the hematoxylin and eosin staining showed that liver tissues of mice in the maximum-dose group exhibited obvious hepatocyte degeneration and hemorrhage. Our results further proved that short-term treatment with MC-LR can inhibit PP2A activity and disrupt INS signaling proteins' phosphorylation level, thereby interfering with the INS pathway. Our findings provide a helpful understanding of the toxic effects posed by MC-LR on the glucose metabolism of liver via interference with the INS signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pu Huang
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kele Chen
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tianfeng Ma
- Department I of Clinical Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Naifang Cao
- Department I of Clinical Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Dengpo Weng
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chun Xu
- Department of Endocrinology, The Third Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lihong Xu
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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11
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Ma T, Cao N, Chen K, Wang H, Xu L, Xu C, Huang P. Microcystin-LR exposure disrupts the insulin signaling pathway in C2C12 mice muscle cell line. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2020; 35:194-202. [PMID: 31714646 DOI: 10.1002/tox.22856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Revised: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 09/14/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Microcystin-LR (MC-LR) is a widely produced monocyclic heptapeptides in eutrophication waterbodies. MC-LR can induce various toxic effects in different cells. Our previous studies have found that MC-LR exposure can disrupt insulin signaling pathway in human liver cells (HL 7702). Skeletal muscle is one of the major organs for glucose disposal and responsive to insulin. However, the effects of MC-LR on insulin signaling pathway in muscle cells have not been fully explored. By using C2C12 mice muscle cells, this study aims to investigate the toxic effects of MC-LR in muscle cells with a focus on its effects on insulin signaling pathways. It was found that MC-LR entered into cells and inhibited protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) significantly. Furthermore, MC-LR increased phosphorylation of Ser302, Ser307, Ser612 of insulin receptor substrate 1, AKT-Ser473, GSK3α-Ser21, and S6K1-Thr389 by inhibiting the activity of PP2A. The results in this study demonstrate that exposure of MCLR can disrupt the insulin pathway in muscle cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianfeng Ma
- Department I of Clinical Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Naifang Cao
- Department I of Clinical Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kele Chen
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Toxicology Program in the Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Lihong Xu
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chun Xu
- Department of Endocrinology, The Third Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Pu Huang
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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Cao Q, Liu W, Jiang W, Shu X, Xie L. Glutathione biosynthesis plays an important role in microcystin-LR depuration in lettuce and spinach. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2019; 253:599-605. [PMID: 31330351 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2019.07.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Revised: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/12/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Irrigation of crop plants with microcystins (MCs) contaminated water could be a threat to human health via bioaccumulation. Despite the fact MCs bioaccumulation in crop plants is well documented, MCs depuration, as well as the mechanism involved remains unclear. The objectives of the present study were to investigate the bioaccumulation and depuration of microcystin-LR (MC-LR) in lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) and spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.), as well as to explore the role of glutathione (GSH) biosynthesis in MC-LR depuration. The tested plants were irrigated with deionized water containing 10 μg L-1 MC-LR for 12 days (bioaccumulation), and subsequently, with either deionized water only or deionized water containing 0.5 mM buthionine sulfoximine (BSO, a specific inhibitor of GSH biosynthesis) for 12 days (depuration). After bioaccumulation period, highest concentrations of MC-LR found in lettuce and spinach were 114.4 and 138.5 μg kg-1 dry weight (DW) respectively. Depuration rates of MC-LR in lettuce and spinach were 9.5 and 8.1 μg kg-1 DW d-1, which deceased to 3.7 and 4.6 μg kg-1 DW d-1 in treatments with BSO application. GSH content in both lettuce and spinach were not significantly affected during depuration without BSO; whereas after treatment with BSO, GSH content significantly decreased by 36.0% and 24.7% in lettuce and spinach on 15 d, and the decrease remained on 18 d and 21 d in lettuce. Moreover, during the bioaccumulation period, activities of glutathione reductase (GR) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) were enhanced in both plants. Our results suggested that GSH biosynthesis played an important role in MC-LR depuration in the tested plants. Concerning human health risk, most of the estimated daily intake (EDI) values during the bioaccumulation period exceeded the tolerable daily intake (TDI) guideline. However, the risk could be alleviated by irrigating with MCs-free water for a certain amount of time before harvest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Cao
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Engineering, Jiangsu Provincial Academy of Environmental Science, Nanjing 210036, China; State Key Laboratory of Lake Science and Environment, Nanjing Institute of Geography and Limnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 73 East Beijing Road, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Weijing Liu
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Engineering, Jiangsu Provincial Academy of Environmental Science, Nanjing 210036, China
| | - Weili Jiang
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Engineering, Jiangsu Provincial Academy of Environmental Science, Nanjing 210036, China
| | - Xiubo Shu
- State Key Laboratory of Lake Science and Environment, Nanjing Institute of Geography and Limnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 73 East Beijing Road, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Liqiang Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Lake Science and Environment, Nanjing Institute of Geography and Limnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 73 East Beijing Road, Nanjing 210008, China.
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Arman T, Lynch KD, Montonye ML, Goedken M, Clarke JD. Sub-Chronic Microcystin-LR Liver Toxicity in Preexisting Diet-Induced Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis in Rats. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:toxins11070398. [PMID: 31323923 PMCID: PMC6669744 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11070398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2019] [Revised: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Microcystin-LR (MCLR) is a hepatotoxic cyanotoxin reported to cause a phenotype similar to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). NASH is a common progressive liver disease that advances in severity due to exogenous stressors such as poor diet and toxicant exposure. Our objective was to determine how sub-chronic MCLR toxicity affects preexisting diet-induced NASH. Sprague-Dawley rats were fed one of three diets for 10 weeks: control, methionine and choline deficient (MCD), or high fat/high cholesterol (HFHC). After six weeks of diet, animals received vehicle, 10 µg/kg, or 30 µg/kg MCLR via intraperitoneal injection every other day for the final 4 weeks. Incidence and severity scoring of histopathology endpoints suggested that MCLR toxicity drove NASH to a less fatty and more fibrotic state. In general, expression of genes involved in de novo lipogenesis and fatty acid esterification were altered in favor of decreased steatosis. The higher MCLR dose increased expression of genes involved in fibrosis and inflammation in the control and HFHC groups. These data suggest MCLR toxicity in the context of preexisting NASH may drive the liver to a more severe phenotype that resembles burnt-out NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarana Arman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Washington State University, Spokane, WA 99202, USA
| | - Katherine D Lynch
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Washington State University, Spokane, WA 99202, USA
| | - Michelle L Montonye
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Washington State University, Spokane, WA 99202, USA
| | - Michael Goedken
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08901, USA
| | - John D Clarke
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Washington State University, Spokane, WA 99202, USA.
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Wang J, Chen Y, Chen Z, Xiang Z, Ding J, Han X. Microcystin-leucine arginine inhibits gonadotropin-releasing hormone synthesis in mice hypothalamus. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2018; 163:391-399. [PMID: 30064084 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2018.07.094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2018] [Revised: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Microcystin-leucine arginine (MC-LR) causes serum testosterone declines and male reproductive disorders. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the pathological changes are still unclear. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the toxic effects of MC-LR on gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons in the hypothalamus. Our results demonstrated that MC-LR could enter GnRH neurons and inhibit GnRH synthesis, resulting in the decrease of serum GnRH and testosterone levels. The inhibitory effects of MC-LR on GnRH synthesis were identified to be associated with activation of the cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)/protein kinase A (PKA)/cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB)/c-Fos signaling pathway. With miRNA microarray analyses, we found that miR-329-3p was down-regulated most dramatically in MC-LR-treated GT1-7 cells. We then further identified that miR-329-3p regulated PRKAR1A and PRKACB expression and thus influenced GnRH synthesis. This is the first study to explore the molecular mechanism underlying the inhibitory effects of MC-LR on GnRH synthesis in the hypothalamus. Our data have provided a new perspective in the development of diagnosis and treatment strategies for male infertility as a result of dysfunction of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Yabing Chen
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Zhangpeng Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Department of Biological Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Zou Xiang
- Department of Health Technology and Informatics, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jie Ding
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China.
| | - Xiaodong Han
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China.
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15
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Pan C, Chen Y, Xu T, Wang J, Li D, Han X. Chronic exposure to microcystin-leucine-arginine promoted proliferation of prostate epithelial cells resulting in benign prostatic hyperplasia. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2018; 242:1535-1545. [PMID: 30145517 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2018.08.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2018] [Revised: 08/04/2018] [Accepted: 08/07/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Microcystin-leucine-arginine (MC-LR), as a most common and deleterious variant among all structural analogues of Microcystins (MCs), can cause male reproductive dysfunction. However, its toxic effects on prostate in adult mice have not been invested in detail. In this study, we observed that MC-LR could enter prostate tissues and induce focal hyperplasia and prostate inflammation. Moreover, increased levels of prostate specific antigen (PSA) and prostate acid phosphatase (PAP) in serum of mice following chronic exposure to MC-LR were detected. We also examined increased expression of forkhead box protein M1 (FOXM1) and PSA in human prostate epithelial cells (RWPE-1) treated with MC-LR at low levels, and FOXM1 could regulate PSA expression. Furthermore, MC-LR also induced expression of CyclinD1 via FOXM1/Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways in RWPE-1 cells, promoting proliferation of prostate epithelial cells, resulting in prostatic hyperplasia in vivo. As a foreign substance, MC-LR also induced immune reaction in RWPE-1 cells mediated by NF-κB pathway, promoting production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Collectively, these findings demonstrated that MC-LR may induce prostatic hyperplasia and prostatitis in mice following chronic low-dose exposure to MC-LR. This work may provide new perspectives in developing new diagnosis and treatment strategies for MC-LR-induced prostatic toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun Pan
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Yabing Chen
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Tianchi Xu
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Dongmei Li
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Xiaodong Han
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China.
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16
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Arunagiri A, Haataja L, Cunningham CN, Shrestha N, Tsai B, Qi L, Liu M, Arvan P. Misfolded proinsulin in the endoplasmic reticulum during development of beta cell failure in diabetes. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2018; 1418:5-19. [PMID: 29377149 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.13531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2017] [Revised: 09/14/2017] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is broadly distributed throughout the cytoplasm of pancreatic beta cells, and this is where all proinsulin is initially made. Healthy beta cells can synthesize 6000 proinsulin molecules per second. Ordinarily, nascent proinsulin entering the ER rapidly folds via the formation of three evolutionarily conserved disulfide bonds (B7-A7, B19-A20, and A6-A11). A modest amount of proinsulin misfolding, including both intramolecular disulfide mispairing and intermolecular disulfide-linked protein complexes, is a natural by-product of proinsulin biosynthesis, as is the case for many proteins. The steady-state level of misfolded proinsulin-a potential ER stressor-is linked to (1) production rate, (2) ER environment, (3) presence or absence of naturally occurring (mutational) defects in proinsulin, and (4) clearance of misfolded proinsulin molecules. Accumulation of misfolded proinsulin beyond a certain threshold begins to interfere with the normal intracellular transport of bystander proinsulin, leading to diminished insulin production and hyperglycemia, as well as exacerbating ER stress. This is most obvious in mutant INS gene-induced Diabetes of Youth (MIDY; an autosomal dominant disease) but also likely to occur in type 2 diabetes owing to dysregulation in proinsulin synthesis, ER folding environment, or clearance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anoop Arunagiri
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology & Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Leena Haataja
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology & Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Corey N Cunningham
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Neha Shrestha
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Billy Tsai
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Ling Qi
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Ming Liu
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology & Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan.,Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Peter Arvan
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology & Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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Chen Y, Wang J, Zhang Q, Xiang Z, Li D, Han X. Microcystin-leucine arginine exhibits immunomodulatory roles in testicular cells resulting in orchitis. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2017; 229:964-975. [PMID: 28765008 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2017.07.081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2017] [Revised: 06/06/2017] [Accepted: 07/24/2017] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Microcystin-leucine arginine (MC-LR) causes testicular inflammation and hinders spermatogenesis. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the immune responses to MC-LR in the testis have not been elucidated in detail. In this study, we show that MC-LR induced immune responses in Sertoli cells (SC), germ cells (GC), and Leydig cells (LC) via activating phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT/nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), resulting in the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines including tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), and chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 10 (CXCL10). The observed effects were attributed to reduced activity of protein phosphatases 2A (PP2A) as a result of binding of MC-LR to the catalytic subunit of PP2A in SC and GC. By contrast, innate immune responses were triggered by Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) in LC because MC-LR could not enter into the LC and subsequently inhibit the PP2A activity. PI3K/AKT/NF-κB were also activated in SC, GC, and LC in vivo, with the enrichment of TNF-α, IL-6, MCP-1, and CXCL10 in the testis. Following chronic exposure, MC-LR-treated mice exhibited decreased sperm counts and abnormal sperm morphology. Our data demonstrate that MC-LR can activate innate immune responses in testicular cells, which provides novel insights to explore the mechanism associated with MC-LR-induced orchitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yabing Chen
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Qin Zhang
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Zou Xiang
- Department of Health Technology and Informatics, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Dongmei Li
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Xiaodong Han
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China.
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