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Zheng WC, Cheng XY, Tao YH, Mao YS, Lu CP, Lin ZH, Chen J. Assessment of the antimicrobial and immunomodulatory activity of QS-CATH, a promising therapeutic agent isolated from the Chinese spiny frogs (Quasipaa spinosa). Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2024; 283:109943. [PMID: 38810897 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2024.109943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Cathelicidins are important antimicrobial peptides in various vertebrate species where they are crucial parts of the innate immune system. The current understanding of amphibian cathelicidins is limited, particularly with regard to their immunomodulatory effects. To address this knowledge gap, we produced the cDNA sequence of the cathelicidin gene from a skin transcriptome of the Chinese spiny frog Quasipaa spinosa. The amino acid sequence of the Quasipaa spinosa cathelicidin (QS-CATH) was predicted to consist of a signal peptide, a cathelin domain, and a mature peptide. Comparative analysis of the QS-CATH amino acid sequence with that of other amphibian cathelicidins revealed high variability in the functional mature peptide among amphibians, whereas the cathelin domain was conserved. The QS-CATH gene was expressed in several tissues, with the highest level of expression in the spleen. Upregulation of QS-CATH after Aeromonas hydrophila infection occurred in the kidney, gut, spleen, skin, and liver. Chemically synthesized QS-CATH exhibited pronounced antibacterial activity against Shigella flexneri, Staphylococcus warneri, Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica, and Listeria monocytogenes. Furthermore, QS-CATH disrupted the cell membrane integrity of S. flexneri, as evidenced by a lactate dehydrogenase release assay, and it hydrolyzed the genomic DNA of S. flexneri. Additionally, QS-CATH elicited chemotaxis and modulated the expression of inflammatory cytokine genes in RAW264.7 mouse leukemic monocyte/macrophage cells. These findings confirm the antimicrobial effects of amphibian cathelicidin and its ability to influence immune cell function. This will expedite the potential utilization of amphibian antimicrobial peptides as therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Cheng Zheng
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; Ecological Forestry Development Center of Suichang County, Lishui 323000, China
| | - Xiao-Yun Cheng
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; Ecological Forestry Development Center of Suichang County, Lishui 323000, China.
| | - Yu-Hui Tao
- Forestry Bureau of Jinyun County, Lishui 321400, China
| | - Yue-Song Mao
- Ecological Forestry Development Center of Suichang County, Lishui 323000, China
| | - Cheng-Pu Lu
- College of Ecology, Lishui University, Lishui 323000, China
| | - Zhi-Hua Lin
- College of Ecology, Lishui University, Lishui 323000, China
| | - Jie Chen
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; College of Ecology, Lishui University, Lishui 323000, China; Lishui Institute for Ecological Economy Research, Lishui 323000, China.
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2
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Chen J, Zhang CY, Wang Y, Zhang L, Seah RWX, Ma L, Ding GH. Discovery of Ll-CATH: a novel cathelicidin from the Chong'an Moustache Toad (Leptobrachium liui) with antibacterial and immunomodulatory activity. BMC Vet Res 2024; 20:343. [PMID: 39095814 PMCID: PMC11295328 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-024-04202-9] [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: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cathelicidins are vital antimicrobial peptides expressed in diverse vertebrates, crucial for immunity. Despite being a new field, amphibian cathelicidin research holds promise. RESULTS We isolated the cDNA sequence of the cathelicidin (Ll-CATH) gene from the liver transcriptome of the Chong'an Moustache Toad (Leptobrachium liui). We confirmed the authenticity of the cDNA sequence by rapid amplification of cDNA ends and reverse transcription PCR, and obtained the Ll-CATH amino acid sequence using the Open Reading Frame Finder, an online bioinformatics tool. Its translated protein contained a cathelin domain, signal peptide, and mature peptide, confirmed by amino acid sequence. The comparative analysis showed that the mature peptides were variable between the amphibian species, while the cathelin domain was conserved. The concentration of Ll-CATH protein and the expression of its gene varied in the tissues, with the spleen showing the highest levels. The expression levels of Ll-CATH in different tissues of toads was significantly increased post infection with Aeromonas hydrophila. Chemically synthesized Ll-CATH effectively combated Proteus mirabilis, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Vibrio harveyi, V. parahaemolyticus, and V. vulnificus; disrupted the membrane of V. harveyi, hydrolyzed its DNA. Ll-CATH induced chemotaxis and modulated the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokine genes in RAW264.7 macrophages. CONCLUSIONS This study unveiled the antibacterial and immunomodulatory potential of amphibian cathelicidin, implying its efficacy against infections. Ll-CATH characterization expands our knowledge, emphasizing its in a bacterial infection therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Chen
- Laboratory of Amphibian Diversity Investigation, College of Ecology, Lishui University, Lishui, 323000, China
| | - Chi-Ying Zhang
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou , Zhejiang, 311121, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Administration Center of Zhejiang Jiulongshan National Nature Reserve, Suichang, Zhejiang, 323300, China
| | - Le Zhang
- College of Medicine, Lishui University, Lishui, 323000, China
| | - Rachel Wan Xin Seah
- Department of Biological Science, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117558, Singapore
| | - Li Ma
- Laboratory of Amphibian Diversity Investigation, College of Ecology, Lishui University, Lishui, 323000, China
| | - Guo-Hua Ding
- Laboratory of Amphibian Diversity Investigation, College of Ecology, Lishui University, Lishui, 323000, China.
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Chen P, Ye T, Li C, Praveen P, Hu Z, Li W, Shang C. Embracing the era of antimicrobial peptides with marine organisms. Nat Prod Rep 2024; 41:331-346. [PMID: 37743806 DOI: 10.1039/d3np00031a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Covering: 2018 to Jun of 2023The efficiency of traditional antibiotics has been undermined by the proliferation of antibiotic-resistant pathogenic microorganisms, necessitating the pursuit of innovative therapeutic agents. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), which are part of host defence peptides found ubiquitously in nature, exhibiting a wide range of activity towards bacteria, fungi, and viruses, offer a highly promising candidate solution. The efficacy of AMPs can frequently be augmented via alterations to their amino acid sequences or structural adjustments. Given the vast reservoir of marine life forms and their distinctive ecosystems, marine AMPs stand as a burgeoning focal point in the quest for alternative peptide templates extracted from natural sources. Advances in identification and characterization techniques have accelerated the discoveries of marine AMPs, thereby stimulating AMP customization, optimization, and synthesis research endeavours. This review presents an overview of recent discoveries related to the intriguing qualities of marine AMPs. Emphasis will be placed upon post-translational modifications (PTMs) of marine AMPs and how they may impact functionality and potency. Additionally, this review considers ways in which marine PTM might support larger-scale, heterologous AMP manufacturing initiatives, providing insights into translational applications of these important biomolecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengyu Chen
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresource and Eco-Environmental Science, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China.
- College of Physics and Optoelectronic Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Ting Ye
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresource and Eco-Environmental Science, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China.
| | - Chunyuan Li
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresource and Eco-Environmental Science, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China.
| | - Praveen Praveen
- Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science La Trobe University, Victoria, 3086, Australia.
| | - Zhangli Hu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresource and Eco-Environmental Science, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China.
| | - Wenyi Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science La Trobe University, Victoria, 3086, Australia.
| | - Chenjing Shang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresource and Eco-Environmental Science, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China.
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Ferreira A, Aversa-Marnai M, Villarino A, Silva-Álvarez V. Innate immune and chronic heat stress responses in sturgeons: Advances and insights from studies on Russian sturgeons. FISH AND SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY REPORTS 2023; 5:100121. [PMID: 37964807 PMCID: PMC10641160 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsirep.2023.100121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic stress deteriorates the immune function of fish, thereby increasing their vulnerability to infections. However, the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying stress-mediated immunosuppression and infection susceptibility in fish remain largely unknown. Understanding these mechanisms will contribute to improving fish welfare and their farm production. Herein, we review the challenges of sturgeon aquaculture in subtropical countries, where current climate change has giving rise to significant temperature increments during summer. This leads to the exposure of fish to stressful conditions during these months. Chronic heat stress deserves attention considering the rapid warming rate of the planet. It is already affecting wild fish populations, with disastrous consequences for sturgeons, which are one of the most endangered fish species in the world. In this context, we discuss the most recent advances through the studies on the effects of chronic heat stress on the innate immune components of sturgeons. To this end, we summarise the findings of studies focusing on the aquaculture of Russian sturgeons and observations made on other Acipenser species. Special attention is given to acute-phase proteins, as they might be valuable biomarkers of heat stress and infection, with applicability in monitoring the fish health status in farms.
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Affiliation(s)
- A.M. Ferreira
- Unidad Asociada de Inmunología, Instituto de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias, Instituto de Higiene, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - M. Aversa-Marnai
- Área Inmunología, Departamento de Biociencias, Facultad de Química, Instituto de Higiene, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - A. Villarino
- Sección Bioquímica, Instituto de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - V. Silva-Álvarez
- Área Inmunología, Departamento de Biociencias, Facultad de Química, Instituto de Higiene, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
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Velumani K, Arasu A, Issac PK, Kishore Kumar MS, Guru A, Arockiaraj J. Advancements of fish-derived peptides for mucormycosis: a novel strategy to treat diabetic compilation. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:10485-10507. [PMID: 37917415 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08882-8] [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: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Mucormycosis, an extremely fatal fungal infection, is a major hurdle in the treatment of diabetes consequences. The increasing prevalence and restricted treatment choices urge the investigation of novel therapeutic techniques. Because of their effective antimicrobial characteristics and varied modes of action, fish-derived peptides have lately emerged as viable options in the fight against mucormycosis. This review examines the potential further application of fish-derived peptides in diagnosing and managing mucormycosis in relation to diabetic complications. First, we examine the pathophysiology of mucormycosis and the difficulties in treating it in diabetics. We emphasize the critical need for alternative therapeutic methods for tackling the limitations of currently available antifungal medicines. The possibility of fish-derived peptides as an innovative approach to combat mucormycosis is then investigated. These peptides, derived from several fish species, provide wide antimicrobial properties against a variety of diseases. They also have distinct modes of action, such as rupture of cell membranes, suppression of development, and modification of the host immunological response. Furthermore, we investigate the problems and prospects connected with the clinical application of fish-derived peptides. Ultimately, future advances in fish-derived peptides, offer interesting avenues for the management of mucormycosis in the context of diabetic comorbidities. More research and clinical trials are needed to properly investigate these peptide's therapeutic potential and pave the way for their adoption into future antifungal therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kadhirmathiyan Velumani
- Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Medical Biotechnology and Integrative Physiology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Thandalam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 602 105, India
| | - Abirami Arasu
- Department of Microbiology, SRM Arts and Science College, Kattankulathur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 603 203, India
| | - Praveen Kumar Issac
- Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Medical Biotechnology and Integrative Physiology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Thandalam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 602 105, India.
| | - Meenakshi Sundaram Kishore Kumar
- Biomedical Research Unit and Laboratory Animal Centre (BRULAC), Department of Anatomy, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, 600 077, India
| | - Ajay Guru
- Department of Cariology, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, India.
| | - Jesu Arockiaraj
- Toxicology and Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Humanities, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, Chengalpattu District, Tamil Nadu, 603203, India.
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6
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van Gelderen TA, Ladisa C, Salazar-Moscoso M, Folgado C, Habibi HR, Ribas L. Metabolomic and transcriptomic profiles after immune stimulation in the zebrafish testes. Genomics 2023; 115:110581. [PMID: 36796654 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2023.110581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Fish farms are prone to disease outbreaks and stress due to high-density rearing conditions in tanks and sea cages, adversely affecting growth, reproduction, and metabolism. To understand the molecular mechanisms affected in the gonads of breeder fish after an immune challenge, we investigated the metabolome and the transcriptome profiles in zebrafish testes after inducing an immune response. After 48 h of the immune challenge, ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (LC-MS) and transcriptomic analysis by RNA-seq (Illumina) resulted in 20 different released metabolites and 80 differentially expressed genes. Among these, glutamine and succinic acid were the most abundant metabolites released and 27,5% of the genes belong to either the immune or reproduction systems. Pathway analysis based on metabolomic and transcriptomic crosstalk identified cad and iars genes that act simultaneously with succinate metabolite. This study deciphers interactions between reproduction and immune systems and provides a basis to improve protocols in generating more resistant broodstock.
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Affiliation(s)
- T A van Gelderen
- Institut de Ciències del Mar - Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (ICM-CSIC), Department of Renewable Marine Resources, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - C Ladisa
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - M Salazar-Moscoso
- Institut de Ciències del Mar - Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (ICM-CSIC), Department of Renewable Marine Resources, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - C Folgado
- Institut de Ciències del Mar - Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (ICM-CSIC), Department of Renewable Marine Resources, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - H R Habibi
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - L Ribas
- Institut de Ciències del Mar - Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (ICM-CSIC), Department of Renewable Marine Resources, 08003 Barcelona, Spain.
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7
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Feng J, Jia Z, Yuan G, Zhu X, Liu Q, Wu K, Wang J, Zou J. Expression and functional characterization of three β-defensins in grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella). DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2023; 140:104616. [PMID: 36565823 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2022.104616] [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: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
β-defensins (BDs) are a group of cysteine-rich cationic antimicrobial peptides and play important roles in the first line of defense against infection. In this study, the expression and antibacterial activities of three grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) (Ci) β-defensin (BD) peptides were comparatively investigated. Expression analysis reveals that CiBD1-3 were constitutively expressed in tissues, with the highest expression detected in the skin. The CiBD-1 transcripts were more abundant than CiBD-2 and CiBD-3. In the primary head kidney leukocytes, CiBDs were induced by PHA, LPS, poly(I:C) and cytokines such as IL-1β and IFN-γ. In vivo challenge of fish with Aeromonas hydrophila resulted in the up-regulation of CiBDs in the head kidney and hindgut. To determine the biological activities, recombinant CiBD proteins were produced in the HEK293-F cells and purified for the minimum inhibitory concentration assay. It was found that all three recombinant CiBD proteins were effective to inhibit the growth of Gram-negative fish bacterial pathogens including Aeromonas hydrophila, Edwardsiella tarda, Flavobacterium columnare and Klebsiella pneumoniae and Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus. CiBD-2 and CiBD-3 were more effective than CiBD-1. Our results demonstrate that all the three CiBDs have broad antibacterial activity against fish bacterial pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianhua Feng
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Zhao Jia
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Gaoliang Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Xiaozhen Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Qin Liu
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Kaizheng Wu
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Junya Wang
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Jun Zou
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266200, China.
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Chen Y, Wu X, Liu X, Lai J, Liu Y, Song M, Li F, Gong Q. Biochemical, transcriptomic and metabolomic responses to total dissolved gas supersaturation and their underlying molecular mechanisms in Yangtze sturgeon (Acipenser dabryanus). ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 216:114457. [PMID: 36183788 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.114457] [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: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
With the rapid development of hydropower facility construction, the total dissolved gas (TDG) generated by dam discharge is seriously threatening the survival of fish and has become an ecological environmental issue of global concern. However, how TDG affects fish physiology and the underlying molecular mechanism remain poorly known. In this study, Acipenser dabryanus, an ancient living fossil that is a flagship species of the Yangtze River, was exposed to water supersaturated with TDG at a level of 116% for 48 h. A comprehensive analysis was performed to study the effect of TDG supersaturation stress on A. dabryanus, including histopathological, biochemical, transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses. The histopathological results showed that mucosal-associated lymphoid tissues were seriously damaged after TDG supersaturation stress. Plasma catalase levels increased significantly under TDG supersaturation stress, while superoxide dismutase levels decreased significantly. Transcriptomic analysis revealed 289 upregulated genes and 162 downregulated genes in gill tissue and 535 upregulated and 104 downregulated genes in liver tissue. Metabolomic analysis revealed 63 and 164 differentially abundant metabolites between the control group and TDG group in gill and liver, respectively. The majority of heat shock proteins and genes related to ubiquitin and various immune-related pathways were significantly upregulated by TDG supersaturation stress. Integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses revealed the upregulation of amino acid metabolism and glycometabolism pathways under TDG supersaturation stress. Glycerophospholipid metabolism was increased which might be associated with maintaining cell membrane integrity. This is the first study revealing the underlying molecular mechanisms of effects of TDG supersaturation on fish. Our results suggested that acute TDG supersaturation stress could enhance immune and antioxidative functions and activate energy metabolic pathways as an adaptive mechanism in A. dabryanus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeyu Chen
- The Fishery Institute of the Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu, 611730, China
| | - Xiaoyun Wu
- The Fishery Institute of the Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu, 611730, China
| | - Xiaoqing Liu
- Key Laboratory of Fluid and Power Machinery, Ministry of Education, Xihua University, Chengdu, 610039, China
| | - Jiansheng Lai
- The Fishery Institute of the Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu, 611730, China
| | - Ya Liu
- The Fishery Institute of the Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu, 611730, China
| | - Mingjiang Song
- The Fishery Institute of the Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu, 611730, China
| | - Feiyang Li
- The Fishery Institute of the Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu, 611730, China
| | - Quan Gong
- The Fishery Institute of the Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu, 611730, China.
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9
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Chen Y, Wu X, Lai J, Liu Y, Song M, Li F, Gong Q. Integrated biochemical, transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses provide insight into heat stress response in Yangtze sturgeon (Acipenser dabryanus). ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 249:114366. [PMID: 36508793 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2022.114366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Temperature fluctuations caused by climate change and global warming pose a great threat to various species. Most fish are particularly vulnerable to elevated temperatures. Understanding the mechanism of high-temperature tolerance in fish can be beneficial for proposing effective strategies to help fish cope with global warming. In this study, we systematically studied the effects of high temperature on Acipenser dabryanus, an ancient living fossil and flagship species of the Yangtze River, at the histological, biochemical, transcriptomic and metabolomic levels. Intestinal and liver tissues from the control groups (18 °C) and acute heat stress groups (30 °C) of A. dabryanus were sampled for histological observation and liver tissues were assessed for transcriptomic and metabolomic profiling. Histopathological analysis showed that the intestine and liver tissues were damaged after heat stress. The plasma cortisol content and the levels of oxidative stress markers (catalase/glutathione reductase) and two aminotransferases (aspartate aminotransferase/alanine aminotransferase) increased significantly in response to acute heat stress. Transcriptomic and metabolomic methods showed 6707 upregulated and 4189 downregulated genes and 64 upregulated and 78 downregulated metabolites in the heat stress group. Heat shock protein (HSP) genes showed striking changes in expression under heat stress, with 21 genes belonging to the HSP30, HSP40, HSP60, HSP70 and HSP90 families significantly upregulated by short-term heat stress. The majority of genes associated with ubiquitin and various immune-related pathways were also markedly upregulated in the heat stress group. In addition, the combined analysis of metabolites and gene profiles suggested an enhancement of amino acid metabolism and glycometabolism and the suppression of fatty acid metabolism during heat stress, which could be a potential energy conservation strategy for A. dabryanus. To the best of our knowledge, the present study represents the first attempt to reveal the mechanisms of heat stress responses in A. dabryanus, which can provide insights into improved cultivation of fish in response to global warming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeyu Chen
- The Fishery Institute of the Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu 611730, China
| | - Xiaoyun Wu
- The Fishery Institute of the Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu 611730, China
| | - Jiansheng Lai
- The Fishery Institute of the Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu 611730, China
| | - Ya Liu
- The Fishery Institute of the Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu 611730, China
| | - Mingjiang Song
- The Fishery Institute of the Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu 611730, China
| | - Feiyang Li
- The Fishery Institute of the Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu 611730, China
| | - Quan Gong
- The Fishery Institute of the Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu 611730, China.
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10
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Das S, Pradhan C, Pillai D. β-Defensin: An adroit saviour in teleosts. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2022; 123:417-430. [PMID: 35331882 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2022.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
β-Defensin (BD) is an important first line innate defense molecule with potent antimicrobial and immunomodulatory activities in fish. The signatures of β-defensins are the presence of a net cationic charge and three intramolecular disulfide bonds mediated by six conserved cysteines. It consists of three exons and two introns. The signal peptide is usually conserved and sequence divergence is mostly seen in mature peptide region. The diverse amino acid sequences of matured peptide contribute to a strong positive selection and broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. It is constitutively expressed in both mucosal as well as systemic sites. Increased expression of β-defensin was mostly reported in bacterial and viral infections in fish. Its role during parasitic and fungal infections is yet to be investigated. β-Defensin isoforms such as BD-1, BD-2, BD-3, BD-4 and BD-5 can be witnessed even in early developmental days to different pathogenic exposure in fish. β-Defensins possess adjuvant properties to enhance antigen-specific immunity promoting both cellular and humoral immune response. It significantly reduces/increases bacterial colonization or viral copy numbers when overexpressed/knockdown. Based on its chemotactic and activating potentials, it can contribute to both innate and adaptive immune responses. With mediated expression, it can also control inflammation. It is potent governing resistance in early developmental days as well. Its expression in pituitary and testis suggests its participation in reproduction and endocrine regulation in fish. Overall, β-defensins is an important member of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) with multifunctional role in general homeostasis and to pathogen exposure possessing tremendous therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sweta Das
- Department of Aquatic Animal Health & Management, Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies, Kochi, Kerala, India.
| | - Chiranjiv Pradhan
- Department of Aquaculture, Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies, Kochi, Kerala, India
| | - Devika Pillai
- Department of Aquatic Animal Health & Management, Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies, Kochi, Kerala, India
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11
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Chen Y, Wu X, Lai J, Liu Y, Song M, Li F, Gong Q. Comprehensive transcriptome analysis reveals the effect of feeding rhythm on the immunity and metabolism of Acipenser dabryanus. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2022; 122:276-287. [PMID: 35181444 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2022.02.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Acipenser dabryanus is a species endemic to Yangtze River drainage in China and is listed as a critical endangered species on the IUCN Red List. In the present study, the liver and spleen transcriptomes were analyzed by comparing the data of A. dabryanus that experienced nine different feeding rhythms (once a day diurnal, T1; two times a day diurnal, T2; three times a day diurnal, T3; four times a day, T4; five times a day, T5; six times a day, T6; once a day nocturnal, Tn1; two times a day nocturnal, Tn2; and three times a day nocturnal, Tn3). Transcriptome sequencing generated 1,901,236,482 clean reads, encompassing 570.4 Gb of sequence data. The reads were assembled into 287,372 unigenes with an average length of 803 bp and an N50 of 1004 bp. KEGG analysis showed that 1,080, 1,030, and 1216 unigenes were annotated to lipid metabolism, amino acid metabolism and carbohydrate metabolism, respectively, and 2549 unigenes were annotated to the immune system category. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between different feeding frequency groups or between nighttime and daytime feeding were obtained and functionally enriched. Importantly, DEGs participating in nutrition metabolism and various immunoregulation pathways and their expression profiles in A. dabryanus were discussed. Interestingly, the majority of key genes related to lipid metabolism or in immunodependent gene families, such as antimicrobial peptides, Toll-like receptors, chemokines, NOD-like receptors, B cell receptors and the major histocompatibility complex, were all significantly upregulated in animals in the T6 group compared to the characteristics of animals in the T2 group that had a normal feeding frequency. In addition, light/dark rhythm also affected the immunity of A. dabryanus, and fish fed at night possessed an improved immune response than fish fed at daytime. Our study suggested that feeding six times a day is optimal for A. dabryanus juvenile growth as it enhances the organism's nutrition metabolism and immune function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeyu Chen
- The Fishery Institute of the Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu, 611730, China
| | - Xiaoyun Wu
- The Fishery Institute of the Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu, 611730, China
| | - Jiansheng Lai
- The Fishery Institute of the Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu, 611730, China
| | - Ya Liu
- The Fishery Institute of the Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu, 611730, China
| | - Mingjiang Song
- The Fishery Institute of the Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu, 611730, China
| | - Feiyang Li
- The Fishery Institute of the Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu, 611730, China
| | - Quan Gong
- The Fishery Institute of the Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu, 611730, China.
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12
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Aversa-Marnai M, Castellano M, Quartiani I, Conijesky D, Perretta A, Villarino A, Silva-Álvarez V, Ferreira AM. Different response of Acipenser gueldenstaedtii CRP/SAP and SAA to bacterial challenge and chronic thermal stress sheds light on the innate immune system of sturgeons. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2022; 121:404-417. [PMID: 34971737 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2021.12.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Sturgeons are chondrostean fish critically endangered due to anthropogenic loss and degradation of natural habitat and overfishing for meat and caviar production. Consequently, sturgeon aquaculture has extensively developed lately, being Russian sturgeon (Acipenser gueldenstaedtii) the second most important species reared for caviar production. However, Russian sturgeon aquaculture in subtropical countries, such as Uruguay, confronts difficulties because fish have to endure excessive summertime warm temperatures, which weaken their innate defences facilitating opportunistic infections. To address this problem, we look for identifying putative acute phase proteins (APPs), which might be robust serum biomarkers of both infection and chronic thermal stress, applied to monitoring Russian sturgeon health status in farms. We focused on the C-Reactive Protein/Serum Amyloid P (CRP/SAP) pentraxin since the pentraxin family includes well-known APPs, better characterised in mammals than fish. We identified A.gueldenstaedtii CRP/SAP (AgCRP/SAP), as a member of the universal CRP/SAP pentraxin sub-family, and studied AgCRP/SAP involvement in sturgeon response to bacterial challenge and chronic thermal stress, in comparison with A. gueldenstaedtii Serum Amyloid A (AgSAA), a previously described positive APP. Results showed that AgCRP/SAP is a constitutive serum component that remained constant upon Aeromonas hydrophila challenge and chronic thermal stress. Contrastingly, serum AgSAA was subjected to regulation by bacterial and thermal stress challenges, showing a 50-fold increase and 3-fold decline in serum levels, respectively. Overall, results highlight the potential value of AgSAA, but not of AgCRP/SAP, as a biomarker of bacterial infection and the need to continue searching for robust chronic thermal stress biomarkers in sturgeons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcio Aversa-Marnai
- Unidad de Inmunología, Instituto de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, CP 11600, Montevideo, Uruguay; Área Inmunología, Departamento de Biociencias, Facultad de Química, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, CP 11600, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Mauricio Castellano
- Unidad de Inmunología, Instituto de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, CP 11600, Montevideo, Uruguay; Área Inmunología, Departamento de Biociencias, Facultad de Química, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, CP 11600, Montevideo, Uruguay; Sección Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, CP 11400, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Ignacio Quartiani
- Unidad de Patología, Biología y Cultivo de Organismos Acuáticos, Departamento de Ciencia y Tecnología de los Alimentos, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de la República, CP 11300, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | | | - Alejandro Perretta
- Unidad de Patología, Biología y Cultivo de Organismos Acuáticos, Departamento de Ciencia y Tecnología de los Alimentos, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de la República, CP 11300, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Andrea Villarino
- Sección Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, CP 11400, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Valeria Silva-Álvarez
- Unidad de Inmunología, Instituto de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, CP 11600, Montevideo, Uruguay; Área Inmunología, Departamento de Biociencias, Facultad de Química, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, CP 11600, Montevideo, Uruguay.
| | - Ana María Ferreira
- Unidad de Inmunología, Instituto de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, CP 11600, Montevideo, Uruguay; Área Inmunología, Departamento de Biociencias, Facultad de Química, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, CP 11600, Montevideo, Uruguay.
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13
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Cu/Zn Superoxide Dismutase and Catalase of Yangtze Sturgeon, Acipenser dabryanus: Molecular Cloning, Tissue Distribution and Response to Fasting and Refeeding. FISHES 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/fishes7010035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Superoxide dismutase and catalase are two major antioxidant enzymes in the fish antioxidant defense system, which can remove excess reactive oxygen species and protect fish from stress-induced oxidative damage. The present study aimed to clone the sequences of Yangtze sturgeon, Acipenser dabryanus, Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (AdCu/Zn-SOD) and catalase (AdCAT), and to explore changes of gene expression in the liver and intestine during fasting and refeeding. A total of 120 fish were exposed to four fasting and refeeding protocols (fasting for 0, 3, 7, or 14 d and then refeeding for 14 d). The coding sequences of AdCu/Zn-SOD and AdCAT encoded 155 and 526 amino acid proteins, respectively, both of which were expressed mainly in the liver. During fasting, when compared to the control group, liver AdCu/Zn-SOD expression was significantly higher in the 3- and 14-d groups, whereas its intestinal expression increased significantly only in the 7-d group. Liver AdCAT expression increased significantly in the 3-, 7-, and 14-d groups. During refeeding, liver AdCu/Zn-SOD expression increased significantly in the 3-, 7-, and 14-d groups compared with those in the control group. Similarly, intestinal AdCu/Zn-SOD expression increased significantly in the 3- and 7-d groups. Moreover, intestinal AdCAT expression was significantly higher in the 3-d group than in the control group, but decreased significantly in the 14-d group. Our findings indicated that AdCu/Zn-SOD and AdCAT play important roles in protecting fish against starvation-induced oxidative stress. Yangtze sturgeon exhibited the potential to adapt to a starvation and refeeding regime.
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Yu SS, Zhao ZH, Gong XF, Fan XL, Lin ZH, Chen J. Antimicrobial and immunomodulatory activity of beta-defensin from the Chinese spiny frog (Quasipaa spinosa). DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2022; 126:104264. [PMID: 34551359 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2021.104264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2021] [Revised: 09/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The β-defensins are important components of the vertebrate innate immune system. While mammalian β-defensins have wide-ranging antibacterial and immunomodulatory activities, those of amphibians remain largely uncharacterised. In this study, β-defensin cDNA was identified from the skin transcriptome of the Chinese spiny frog Quasipaa spinosa. This β-defensin (QS-BD) consists of a signal and a mature peptide. Sequence alignments with other amphibian β-defensins showed conservation of the functional mature peptide and that its closest relative is β-defensin from Zhangixalus puerensis. Synthetic QS-BD showed antibacterial activity against Vibrio vulnificus, Vibrio harveyi, Streptococcus iniae, and Aeromonas hydrophila. QS-BD showed bactericidal activity by destroying the cell membrane integrity, but did not hydrolyse genomic DNA. QS-BD treatment promoted respiratory bursts and upregulated the expression of interleukin-1β and tumour necrosis factor-α in the murine leukemic monocyte/macrophage cell line RAW264.7. This is the first demonstration of immunomodulatory activity by an amphibian β-defensin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shui-Sheng Yu
- College of Ecology, Lishui University, Lishui, 323000, China; Ecological Forestry Development Center of Suichang County, Lishui, 323000, China
| | - Zeng-Hui Zhao
- College of Ecology, Lishui University, Lishui, 323000, China
| | - Xiao-Fei Gong
- College of Ecology, Lishui University, Lishui, 323000, China; Ecological Forestry Development Center of Suichang County, Lishui, 323000, China
| | - Xiao-Li Fan
- College of Ecology, Lishui University, Lishui, 323000, China
| | - Zhi-Hua Lin
- College of Ecology, Lishui University, Lishui, 323000, China.
| | - Jie Chen
- College of Ecology, Lishui University, Lishui, 323000, China.
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15
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Marine Transcriptomics Analysis for the Identification of New Antimicrobial Peptides. Mar Drugs 2021; 19:md19090490. [PMID: 34564152 PMCID: PMC8468504 DOI: 10.3390/md19090490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) participate in the immune system to avoid infection, are present in all living organisms and can be used as drugs. Fish express numerous AMP families including defensins, cathelicidins, liver-expressed antimicrobial peptides (LEAPs), histone-derived peptides, and piscidins (a fish-specific AMP family). The present study demonstrates for the first time the occurrence of several AMPs in lionfish (Pterois volitans). Using the lionfish transcriptome, we identified four transcript sequences encoding cysteine-rich AMPs and two new transcripts encoding piscidin-like peptides. These AMPs are described for the first time in a species of the Scorpaenidae family. A functional approach on new pteroicidins was carried out to determine antimicrobial sequences and potential uses, with a view to using some of these AMPs for human health or in aquaculture.
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16
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Barroso C, Carvalho P, Gonçalves JFM, Rodrigues PNS, Neves JV. Antimicrobial Peptides: Identification of two Beta-Defensins in a Teleost Fish, the European Sea Bass ( Dicentrarchus labrax). Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14060566. [PMID: 34198571 PMCID: PMC8231796 DOI: 10.3390/ph14060566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Beta-defensins consist in a group of cysteine-rich antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), widely found throughout vertebrate species, including teleost fish, with antimicrobial and immunomodulatory activities. However, although the European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) is one of the most commercially important farmed fish species in the Mediterranean area, the characterization of its beta-defensins and its potential applications are still missing. In this study, we characterized two members of the beta-defensin family in this species. Phylogenetic and synteny analysis places sea bass peptides in the beta-defensin subfamilies 1 and 2, sharing similar features with the other members, including the six cysteines and the tertiary structure, that consists in three antiparallel beta-sheets, with beta-defensin 1 presenting an extra alpha-helix at the N-terminal. Further studies are necessary to uncover the functions of sea bass beta-defensins, particularly their antimicrobial and immunomodulatory properties, in order to develop novel prophylactic or therapeutic compounds to be used in aquaculture production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Barroso
- i3S—Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; (P.N.S.R.); (J.V.N.)
- Iron and Innate Immunity, IBMC—Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Programa Doutoral em Biologia Molecular e Celular (MCbiology), ICBAS—Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
- Correspondence:
| | - Pedro Carvalho
- ICBAS—Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (P.C.); (J.F.M.G.)
| | - José F. M. Gonçalves
- ICBAS—Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (P.C.); (J.F.M.G.)
- CIIMAR—Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental, Universidade do Porto, 4450-208 Porto, Portugal
| | - Pedro N. S. Rodrigues
- i3S—Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; (P.N.S.R.); (J.V.N.)
- Iron and Innate Immunity, IBMC—Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- ICBAS—Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (P.C.); (J.F.M.G.)
| | - João V. Neves
- i3S—Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; (P.N.S.R.); (J.V.N.)
- Iron and Innate Immunity, IBMC—Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- ICBAS—Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (P.C.); (J.F.M.G.)
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17
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Neelima S, Archana K, Athira PP, Anju MV, Anooja VV, Bright Singh IS, Philip R. Molecular characterization of a novel β-defensin isoform from the red-toothed trigger fish, Odonus niger (Ruppel, 1836). J Genet Eng Biotechnol 2021; 19:71. [PMID: 33978838 PMCID: PMC8116387 DOI: 10.1186/s43141-021-00175-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Background The concern regarding a post-antibiotic era with increasing drug resistance by pathogens imposes the need to discover alternatives for existing antibiotics. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) with their versatile therapeutic properties are a group of promising molecules with curative potentials. These evolutionarily conserved molecules play important roles in the innate immune system of several organisms. The β-defensins are a group of cysteine rich cationic antimicrobial peptides that play an important role in the innate immune system by their antimicrobial activity against the invading pathogens. The present study deals with a novel β-defensin isoform from the red-toothed trigger fish, Odonus niger. Total RNA was isolated from the gills, cDNA was synthesized and the β-defensin isoform obtained by polymerase chain reaction was cloned and subjected to structural and functional characterization in silico. Results A β-defensin isoform could be detected from the gill mRNA of red-toothed trigger fish, Odonus niger. The cDNA encoded a 63 amino acid peptide, β-defensin, with a 20 amino acid signal sequence followed by 43 amino acid cationic mature peptide (On-Def) having a molecular weight of 5.214 kDa and theoretical pI of 8.89. On-Def possessed six highly conserved cysteine residues forming disulfide bonds between C1–C5, C2–C4, and C3–C6, typical of β-defensins. An anionic pro-region was observed prior to the β-defensin domain within the mature peptide. Clustal alignment and phylogenetic analyses revealed On-Def as a group 2 β-defensin. Furthermore, it shared some structural similarities and functional motifs with β-defensins from other organisms. On-Def was predicted to be non-hemolytic with anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal, anti-cancer, and immunomodulatory potential. Conclusion On-Def is the first report of a β-defensin from the red-toothed trigger fish, Odonus niger. The antimicrobial profile showed the potential for further studies as a suitable candidate for antimicrobial peptide therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Neelima
- Department of Marine Biology, Microbiology & Biochemistry, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Cochin, 682016, India
| | - K Archana
- Department of Marine Biology, Microbiology & Biochemistry, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Cochin, 682016, India
| | - P P Athira
- Department of Marine Biology, Microbiology & Biochemistry, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Cochin, 682016, India
| | - M V Anju
- Department of Marine Biology, Microbiology & Biochemistry, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Cochin, 682016, India
| | - V V Anooja
- Department of Marine Biology, Microbiology & Biochemistry, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Cochin, 682016, India
| | - I S Bright Singh
- National Centre for Aquatic Animal Health, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Cochin, 682016, India
| | - Rosamma Philip
- Department of Marine Biology, Microbiology & Biochemistry, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Cochin, 682016, India.
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18
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Serum amyloid A is a positive acute phase protein in Russian sturgeon challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila. Sci Rep 2020; 10:22162. [PMID: 33335147 PMCID: PMC7746741 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-79065-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The immune system of sturgeons, one of the most ancient and economically valuable fish worldwide, is poorly understood. The lack of molecular tools and data about infection biomarkers hinders the possibility to monitor sturgeon health during farming and detect infection outbreaks. To tackle this issue, we mined publicly available transcriptomic datasets and identified putative positive acute-phase proteins (APPs) of Russian sturgeons that could be induced by a bacterial infection and monitored using non-invasive methods. Teleost literature compelled us to focus on five promising candidates: hepcidin, a warm acclimation associated hemopexin, intelectin, serum amyloid A protein (SAA) and serotransferrin. Among them, SAA was the most upregulated protein at the mRNA level in the liver of sturgeons challenged with heat-inactivated or live Aeromonas hydrophila. To assess whether this upregulation yielded increasing SAA levels in circulation, we developed an in-house ELISA to quantify SAA levels in sturgeon serum. Circulating SAA rose upon bacterial challenge and positively correlated with hepatic saa expression. This is the first time serum SAA has been quantified in an Actinopterygii fish. Since APPs vary across different fish species, our work sheds light on sturgeon acute-phase response, revealing that SAA is a positive APP with potential value as infection biomarker.
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19
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Harte A, Tian G, Xu Q, Secombes CJ, Wang T. Five subfamilies of β-defensin genes are present in salmonids: Evolutionary insights and expression analysis in Atlantic salmon Salmo salar. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2020; 104:103560. [PMID: 31758960 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2019.103560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Revised: 11/17/2019] [Accepted: 11/17/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
β-defensins (BD) are the largest family of vertebrate defensins with potent antimicrobial, chemotactic and immune-regulatory activities. Four BD genes (BD1-4) have been cloned previously in rainbow trout but none have been reported in other salmonids. In this study seven BD genes (BD1a-b, 2-4, 5a-b) are characterised in Atlantic salmon and additional BD genes (BD1b and BD5) in rainbow trout. Bioinformatic analysis revealed up to seven BD genes in the genomes of other salmonids that belong to five subfamilies (BD1-5) due to whole genome duplications. BD1-2 and BD4-5 are also present in basal teleosts but only BD1 and/or BD5 are present in advanced teleosts due to loss of one chromosomal locus. BD3 is salmonid specific. Fish BD have a unique three-coding exon structure. Fish BD are highly divergent between subfamilies but conserved within each subfamily. Atlantic salmon BD genes are differentially expressed in tissues, often with low level expression in systemic immune organs (head kidney and spleen) yet with at least one BD gene highly expressed in mucosal tissues, heart, blood and liver. This suggests an important role of these BD genes in innate immunity in mucosa, liver and blood in Atlantic salmon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Harte
- Scottish Fish Immunology Research Centre, School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, AB24 2TZ, UK
| | - Guangming Tian
- Scottish Fish Immunology Research Centre, School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, AB24 2TZ, UK; School of Animal Science, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, 434020, PR China
| | - Qiaoqing Xu
- School of Animal Science, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, 434020, PR China
| | - Christopher John Secombes
- Scottish Fish Immunology Research Centre, School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, AB24 2TZ, UK.
| | - Tiehui Wang
- Scottish Fish Immunology Research Centre, School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, AB24 2TZ, UK.
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20
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Liu C, Yu X, Meng Z, Zhao N, Bai F, Zhao L. Microwave‐assisted extraction (MAE) combined with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) for determination of volatile small molecules to evaluate compatibility of antimicrobial peptide PL‐5 spray with packaging materials. Biomed Chromatogr 2020; 34:e4748. [DOI: 10.1002/bmc.4748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2019] [Revised: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Chu Liu
- School of PharmacyShenyang Pharmaceutical University Shenyang China
| | - Xiangyong Yu
- School of PharmacyShenyang Pharmaceutical University Shenyang China
| | - Zhaorui Meng
- School of PharmacyShenyang Pharmaceutical University Shenyang China
| | - Ning Zhao
- School of PharmacyShenyang Pharmaceutical University Shenyang China
| | - Fujuan Bai
- School of PharmacyShenyang Pharmaceutical University Shenyang China
| | - Longshan Zhao
- School of PharmacyShenyang Pharmaceutical University Shenyang China
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21
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Contreras G, Shirdel I, Braun MS, Wink M. Defensins: Transcriptional regulation and function beyond antimicrobial activity. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2020; 104:103556. [PMID: 31747541 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2019.103556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2019] [Revised: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Defensins are one the largest group of antimicrobial peptides and are part of the innate defence. Defensins are produced by animals, plants and fungi. In animals and plants, defensins can be constitutively or differentially expressed both locally or systemically which confer defence before and a stronger response after infection. Immune signalling pathways regulate the gene expression of defensins. These pathways include cellular receptors, which recognise pathogen-associated molecular patterns and are found both in plants and animals. After recognition, signalling pathways and, subsequently, transcriptional factors are activated. There is an increasing number of novel functions in defensins, such as immunomodulators and immune cell attractors. Identification of defensin triggers could help us to elucidate other new functions. The present article reviews the different elicitors of defensins with a main focus on human, fish and marine invertebrate defensins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Contreras
- Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Iman Shirdel
- Marine Sciences Faculty, Tarbiat Modares University, Noor, Iran
| | - Markus Santhosh Braun
- Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michael Wink
- Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany.
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22
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Zhou Y, Zhou QJ, Qiao Y, Chen J, Li MY. The host defense peptide β-defensin confers protection against Vibrio anguillarum in ayu, Plecoglossus altivelis. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2020; 103:103511. [PMID: 31580833 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2019.103511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2019] [Revised: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/27/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
β-defensin is a cationic host defense peptide actively participating in host innate immune response against pathogens. In teleost fish, β-defensin exhibits a diversity in genotypes and functions. Herein, a β-defensin homolog (PaBD) was identified from ayu, Plecoglossus altivelis, showing multiple tissues' upregulation against Vibrio anguillarum challenge. In vivo experiments revealed that intraperitoneal injection of chemically synthesized mature PaBD (mPaBD) increased the survival rate of V. anguillarum-infected ayu, accompanied by reduced bacterial load and decreased tissue mRNA levels of tumor necrosis factor α (PaTNF-α) and interleukin 1β (PaIL-1β). However, in vitro, mPaBD showed weak bactericidal activity against V. anguillarum. Interestingly, mPaBD enhanced phagocytosis, intracellular bacterial killing, and respiratory burst of ayu monocytes/macrophages (MO/MΦ). Moreover, it inhibited mRNA levels of PaIL-1β and PaTNF-α in MO/MФ upon V. anguillarum infection. In conclusion, PaBD protects ayu against V. anguillarum challenge not only through its direct antibacterial ability, but also through its immunomodulation in MO/MΦ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhou
- State Key Laboratory for Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, China; Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315832, China
| | - Qian-Jin Zhou
- State Key Laboratory for Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, China; Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315832, China
| | - Yan Qiao
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315832, China
| | - Jiong Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, China; Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315832, China; Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biotechnology of Ministry of Education, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315832, China.
| | - Ming-Yun Li
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315832, China
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23
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Review on Immersion Vaccines for Fish: An Update 2019. Microorganisms 2019; 7:microorganisms7120627. [PMID: 31795391 PMCID: PMC6955699 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms7120627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Immersion vaccines are used for a variety of aquacultured fish to protect against infectious diseases caused by bacteria and viruses. During immersion vaccination the antigens are taken up by the skin, gills or gut and processed by the immune system, where the resulting response may lead to protection. The lack of classical secondary responses following repeated immersion vaccination may partly be explained by the limited uptake of antigens by immersion compared to injection. Administration of vaccines depends on the size of the fish. In most cases, immersion vaccination is inferior to injection vaccination with regard to achieved protection. However, injection is problematic in small fish, and fry as small as 0.5 gram may be immersion vaccinated when they are considered adaptively immunocompetent. Inactivated vaccines are, in many cases, weakly immunogenic, resulting in low protection after immersion vaccination. Therefore, during recent years, several studies have focused on different ways to augment the efficacy of these vaccines. Examples are booster vaccination, administration of immunostimulants/adjuvants, pretreatment with low frequency ultrasound, use of live attenuated and DNA vaccines, preincubation in hyperosmotic solutions, percutaneous application of a multiple puncture instrument and application of more suitable inactivation chemicals. Electrostatic coating with positively charged chitosan to obtain mucoadhesive vaccines and a more efficient delivery of inactivated vaccines has also been successful.
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Chen C, Wang A, Zhang F, Zhang M, Yang H, Li J, Su P, Chen Y, Yu H, Wang Y. The protective effect of fish-derived cathelicidins on bacterial infections in zebrafish, Danio rerio. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2019; 92:519-527. [PMID: 31202967 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2019.06.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2019] [Revised: 05/19/2019] [Accepted: 06/12/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Antibiotic-resistant bacteria are severe threats to aquaculture industry. Boosting and modulating host immune responses has been proved to be an effective strategy to combat with bacterial infections and there is an urgent need for novel immunomodulators. Cathelicidins is an important family of host defense peptides (HDPs) that possess direct antimicrobial activities and potent immunomodulatory properties. Several cathelicidins have been identified and characterized from diverse fish species. Considering the relatively conserved immune systems between different fish species, it is reasonable to speculate that cathelicidins from different fish species possess immunomodulating functions on the other fish species. In the present study, two fish-derived cathelicidins (CATH_BRALE and codCath1) were selected to investigate their protective effect on zebrafish with bacterial infections. They exhibited potent and broad-spectrum antimicrobial activities against the tested aquatic Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogenic bacteria, with MIC values ranging 2.34-18.75 μg/ml for CATH_BRALE and 2.34-37.5 μg/ml for codCath1. And their antimicrobial effect is so rapid that they killed the bacteria within 60 min. Unlike conventional antibiotics, they kill bacteria by inducing bacterial membrane permeabilization and cell disruption. Besides direct antimicrobial activity, CATH_BRALE and codCath1 exhibited potent immunomodulatory functions by both inhibiting bacteria induced zebrafish pro-inflammatory cytokine gene (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) expression and stimulating zebrafish chemokine gene IL-8 expression. In vivo challenge test proved that they could significantly decrease the bacterial numbers and enhance the survival rates of zebrafish. All the results above imply the great potential of CATH_BRALE and codCath1 as novel peptide immunomodulators in fish aquaculture industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Chen
- Chinese-German Joint Laboratory for Natural Product Research, College of Biological Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Technology, Hanzhong, Shaanxi, 723000, China
| | - Aili Wang
- Weifang University of Science and Technology, Shouguang, Shandong, 262700, China
| | - Fen Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, China
| | - Minghui Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, China
| | - Huaixin Yang
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, 116023, China
| | - Jianan Li
- Chinese-German Joint Laboratory for Natural Product Research, College of Biological Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Technology, Hanzhong, Shaanxi, 723000, China
| | - Pengchao Su
- Chinese-German Joint Laboratory for Natural Product Research, College of Biological Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Technology, Hanzhong, Shaanxi, 723000, China
| | - Yan Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, China
| | - Haining Yu
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, 116023, China.
| | - Yipeng Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, China.
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