Mechanisms of cytochrome c release by proapoptotic BCL-2 family members

USP7 cardiomyocyte specific knockout causes disordered mitochondrial biogenesis and dynamics and early neonatal lethality in mice

BACKGROUND

Ubiquitination is an enzymatic modification involving ubiquitin chains, that can be reversed by deubiquitination (DUB) enzymes. Ubiquitin-specific protease 7 (USP7), which is also known as herpes virus-associated ubiquitin-specific protease (HAUSP), has been shown to play a vital role in cardiovascular diseases. However, the underlying molecular mechanism by which USP7 regulates cardiomyocyte function has not been reported.

METHODS

To understand the physiological function of USP7 in the heart, we constructed cardiomyocyte-specific USP7 conditional knockout mice.

RESULTS

We found that homozygous knockout mice died approximately three weeks after birth, while heterozygous knockout mice grew normally into adulthood. Severe cardiac dysfunction, hypertrophy, fibrosis, and cell apoptosis were observed in cardiomyocyte-specific USP7 knockout mice, and these effects were accompanied by disordered mitochondrial dynamics and cardiometabolic-related proteins.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, we investigated changes in the growth status and cardiac function of cardiomyocyte-specific USP7 knockout mice, and preliminarily explored the underlying mechanism.

Investigating the proliferative inhibition of HepG2 cells by exosome-like nanovesicles derived from Centella asiatica extract through metabolomics

Nano-particles demonstrating excellent anticancer properties have gradually found application in cancer therapy. However, their widespread use is impeded by their potential toxicity, high cost, and the complexity of the preparation process. In this study, we achieved exosome-like Centella asiatica-derived nanovesicles (ADNVs) through a straightforward juicing and high-speed centrifugation process. We employed transmission electron microscopy and nanoparticle flow cytometry to characterize the morphology, diameter, and stability of the ADNVs. We evaluated the in vitro anticancer effects of ADNVs using Cell Counting Kit-8 and apoptosis assays. Through sequencing and bicinchoninic acid protein analysis, we discovered the abundant presence of proteins and microRNAs in ADNVs. These microRNAs can target various diseases such as cancer and infection. Furthermore, we demonstrated the effective internalization of ADNVs by HepG2 cells, resulting in an increase in reactive oxygen species levels, mitochondrial damage, cell cycle arrest at the G1 phase, and apoptosis. Finally, we analyzed changes in cellular metabolites post-treatment using cell metabolomics techniques. Our findings indicated that ADNVs primarily influence metabolic pathways such as amino acid metabolism and lipid biosynthesis, which are closely associated with HepG2 treatment. Our results demonstrate the potential utility of ADNVs as anticancer agents.

Inhibition of MFN1 restores tamoxifen-induced apoptosis in resistant cells by disrupting aberrant mitochondrial fusion dynamics

Tamoxifen (TAM) resistance presents a major clinical obstacle in the management of estrogen-sensitive breast cancer, highlighting the need to understand the underlying mechanisms and potential therapeutic approaches. We showed that dysregulated mitochondrial dynamics were involved in TAM resistance by protecting against mitochondrial apoptosis. The dysregulated mitochondrial dynamics were associated with increased mitochondrial fusion and decreased fission, thus preventing the release of mitochondrial cytochrome c to the cytoplasm following TAM treatment. Dynamin-related GTPase protein mitofusin 1 (MFN1), which promotes fusion, was upregulated in TAM-resistant cells, and high MFN1 expression indicated a poor prognosis in TAM-treated patients. Mitochondrial translocation of MFN1 and interaction between MFN1 and mitofusin 2 (MFN2) were enhanced to promote mitochondrial outer membrane fusion. The interaction of MFN1 and cristae-shaping protein optic atrophy 1 (OPA1) and OPA1 oligomerization were reduced due to augmented OPA1 proteolytic cleavage, and their apoptosis-promoting function was reduced due to cristae remodeling. Furthermore, the interaction of MFN1 and BAK were increased, which restrained BAK activation following TAM treatment. Knockdown or pharmacological inhibition of MFN1 blocked mitochondrial fusion, restored BAK oligomerization and cytochrome c release, and amplified activation of caspase-3/9, thus sensitizing resistant cells to apoptosis and facilitating the therapeutic effects of TAM both in vivo and in vitro. Conversely, overexpression of MFN1 alleviated TAM-induced mitochondrial apoptosis and promoted TAM resistance in sensitive cells. These results revealed that dysregulated mitochondrial dynamics contributes to the development of TAM resistance, suggesting that targeting MFN1-mediated mitochondrial fusion is a promising strategy to circumvent TAM resistance.

Cymensifin A: a promising pharmaceutical candidate to defeat lung cancer via cellular reactive oxygen species-mediated apoptosis

Background: The upgrade of natural products for cancer treatment is essential since current anticancer drugs still pose severe side effects. Cymensifin A (Cym A) isolated from an orchid Cymbidium ensifolium has shown its potential to induce the death of several cancer cells; however, its underlying molecular mechanisms are hitherto unknown. Methods: Here, we conducted a set of in vitro preliminary tests to assess the cytotoxic effects of Cym A on non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells (A549, H23, H292, and H460). A flow cytometry system and Western blot analyses were employed to unveil molecular mechanisms underlying cancer cell apoptosis caused by Cym A. Results: Cym A at 25-50 μM caused the death of all NSCLC cells tested, and its cytotoxicity was comparable to cisplatin, a currently used anticancer drug. The compound induced apoptosis of all NSCLC cells in a dose-dependent manner (5-50 μM), proven by flow cytometry, but H460 cells showed more resistance compared to other cells tested. Cym A-treated H460 cells demonstrated increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) and downregulated antioxidants (catalase, superoxide dismutase, and thioredoxin). The compound also upregulated the tumor suppressor P53 and the pro-apoptotic protein BAX but downregulated pro-survival proteins (BCL-2 and MCL-1) and deactivated survival signals (AKT and ERK) in H460 cells. Cym A was proven to trigger cellular ROS formation, but P53 and BAX were 2-fold more activated by Cym A compared to those treated with hydrogen peroxide. Our findings also supported that Cym A exerted its roles in the downregulation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (a regulator of cellular antioxidant activity) and the increased levels of cleaved poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) and cleaved caspase 3/7 during apoptosis. Conclusion: We propose that Cym A induces lung cancer cell death via ROS-mediated apoptosis, while the modulation of cellular ROS/antioxidant activity, the upregulation of P53 and BAX, the downregulation or deactivation of BCL-2, MCL-1, AKT, and ERK, and the increased cleavage of PARP and caspase 3/7, were the elucidated underlying molecular mechanisms of this phytochemical. The compound can be a promising candidate for future anticancer drug development.

Probing the Mechanism of Action of Bis(phenolato) Amine (ONO Donor Set) Titanium(IV) Anticancer Agents

The need for anticancer therapies that overcome metallodrug resistance while minimizing adverse toxicities is targeted, herein, using titanium coordination complexes. Octahedral titanium(IV) trans,mer-[Ti{R1N(CH2-2-MeO-4-R1-C6H2)2}2] [R1 = Et, allyl, n-Pr, CHO, F, CH2(morpholino), the latter from the formyl derivative; R2 = Me, Et; not all combinations] are attained from Mannich reactions of commercial 2-methoxyphenols (27-74% overall yield, 2 steps). These crystalline (four X-ray structures) Ti(IV)-complexes are active against MCF-7, HCT-116, HT-29, PANC-1, and MDA-MB-468 cancer cell lines (GI50 = 0.5-38 μM). Their activity and cancer selectivity (vs nontumor MRC-5 cells) typically exceeds that of cisplatin (up to 16-fold). Proteomic analysis (in MCF-7) supported by other studies (G2/M cell cycle arrest, ROS generation, γH2AX production, caspase activation, annexin positivity, western blot, and kinase screens in MCF-7 and HCT-116) suggest apoptosis elicited by more than one mechanism of action. Comparison of these data to the modes of action proposed for salan Ti(IV) complexes is made.

Inhibition of TLR4, NF-κB, and INOS pathways mediates ameliorative effect of syringic acid in experimental ulcerative colitis in rats

OBJECTIVE

Numerous therapeutics and pharmacological properties have been reported in syringic acid (SA). In this study, we aimed to evaluate effect of SA in ulcerative colitis (UC) in rats considering effect on TLR4, NF-κB, and INOS pathways.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

48 Wistar rats were randomly designated into six groups (n = 8). UC was induced via intra-rectal administration of 7% acetic acid (0.8 ml). SA at doses of 10, 25, 50 mg/kg was administrated through gavage, and dexamethasone (2 mg/kg) administrated intra-peritoneally for 5 consecutive days. The macroscopic and histopathological damages as well as expression of inflammatory and apoptotic genes along with superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), nitric oxide (NO), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in the colon tissue were assessed.

RESULTS

UC led to an increase in the apoptotic and inflammatory genes, NO and MDA levels as well as decrease in TAC level, and SOD and CAT activities (p < 0.05). UC also caused severe damage, edema, inflammation, and necrosis in the colon. SA significantly reduced gene expressions of INOS, TLR4, IL-6, IL-1β, NF-κB, Caspase-3, Caspase-8, and Bax. SA ameliorated negative macroscopic and histopathologic effects of UC. SA significantly reduced MDA and NO levels, and increased TAC level and CAT activity in the colon tissue in comparison to the UC rats without treatment (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

SA via attenuation of the TLR4-NF-κB, NF-κB-INOS-NO pathways, oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis of UC in rats.

A review for cancer treatment with mushroom metabolites through targeting mitochondrial signaling pathway: In vitro and in vivo evaluations, clinical studies and future prospects for mycomedicine

Resistance to apoptosis stands as a roadblock to the successful pharmacological execution of anticancer drug effect. A comprehensive insight into apoptotic signaling pathways and an understanding of the mechanisms of apoptosis resistance are crucial to unveil new drug targets. At this juncture, researchers are heading towards natural sources in particular, mushroom as their potential drugs leads to being the reliable source of potent bioactive compounds. Given the continuous increase in cancer cases, the potent anticancer efficacy of mushrooms has inevitably become a fascinating object to researchers due to their higher safety margin and multitarget. This review aimed to collect and summarize all the available scientific data on mushrooms from their extracts to bioactive molecules in order to suggest their anticancer attributes via a mitochondrion -mediated intrinsic signaling mechanism. Compiled data revealed that bioactive components of mushrooms including polysaccharides, sterols and terpenoids as well as extracts prepared using 15 different solvents from 53 species could be effective in the supportive treatment of 20 various cancers. The underlying therapeutic mechanisms of the studied mushrooms are explored in this review through diverse and complementary investigations: in vitro assays, pre-clinical studies and clinical randomized controlled trials. The processes mainly involved were ROS production, mitochondrial membrane dysfunction, and action of caspase 3, caspase 9, XIAP, cIAP, p53, Bax, and Bcl-2. In summary, the study provides facts pertaining to the potential beneficial effect of mushroom extracts and their active compounds against various types of cancer and is shedding light on the underlying targeted signaling pathways.

A novel CD8+ T cell-related gene signature for predicting the prognosis and immunotherapy efficacy in bladder cancer

OBJECTIVE

To identify CD8+ T cell-related molecular clusters and establish a novel gene signature for predicting the prognosis and efficacy of immunotherapy in bladder cancer (BCa).

METHODS

Transcriptome and clinical data of BCa samples were obtained from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and GEO databases. The CD8+ T cell-related genes were screened through the CIBERSORT algorithm and correlation analysis. Consensus clustering analysis was utilized to identified CD8+ T cell-related molecular clusters. A novel CD8+ T cell-related prognostic model was developed using univariate Cox regression analysis and Lasso regression analysis. Internal and external validations were performed and the validity of the model was validated in a real-world cohort. Finally, preliminary experimental verifications were carried out to verify the biological functions of SH2D2A in bladder cancer.

RESULTS

A total of 52 CD8+ T cell-related prognostic genes were screened and two molecular clusters with notably diverse immune cell infiltration, prognosis and clinical features were developed. Then, a novel CD8+ T cell-related prognostic model was constructed. The patients with high-risk scores exhibited a significantly worse overall survival in training, test, whole TCGA and validating cohort. The AUC was 0.766, 0.725, 0.739 and 0.658 in the four cohorts sequentially. Subgroup analysis suggested that the novel prognostic model has a robust clinical application for selecting high-risk patients. Finally, we confirmed that patients in the low-risk group might benefit more from immunotherapy or chemotherapy, and validated the prognostic model in a real-world immunotherapy cohort. Preliminary experiment showed that SH2D2A was capable of attenuating proliferation, migration and invasion of BCa cells.

CONCLUSIONS

CD8+ T cell-related molecular clusters were successfully identified. Besides, a novel CD8+ T cell-related prognostic model with an excellent predictive performance in predicting survival rates and immunotherapy efficacy of BCa was developed.

Protective effect of cerium oxide on testicular function and oxidative stress after torsion/detorsion in adult male rats

Testicular torsion (T)/detorsion (D) can cause testicular injury due to the rotation of the spermatic cord and its vessels, therefore it represents an urological emergency that is surgically treated. Oxidative damage occurs in the testis and distant organs because of the overproduction of free radicals and overexpression of proinflammatory cytokines by reperfusion after surgery. Cerium oxide (CeO₂) nanoparticles, a material also known as nanoceria, have regenerative antioxidant properties on oxidative stress. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of nanoceria on testis tissues in testicular T/D in rats. A total of 24 rats were equally and randomly divided into four groups: Control, CeO₂, T/D and CeO2-T/D groups. Left inguinoscrotal incision was performed in the control group. In the CeO₂ group, 0.5 mg/kg CeO₂ was given intraperitoneally 30 min before inguinoscrotal incision. In the T/D group, unilateral testicular T/D was performed through an inguinoscrotal incision and rotating the left testis 720˚ clockwise, which was then left ischemic for 120 min, followed by 120 min of reperfusion. In the CeO₂-T/D group, 0.5 mg/kg CeO₂ was given intraperitoneally 30 min before testicular T/D. At the end of the experiment, testis tissues were removed for histopathological and biochemical examinations. The samples were histologically examined, Glutathione-s transferase (GST), catalase (CAT), paraoxonase (PON) activities and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured via biochemical analysis methods, while the expression levels of p53, Bax and Bcl-2 were detected using immunohistochemistry. The present results revealed statistically significant inter-group differences in PON, CAT and GST activities and MDA levels. GST, CAT and PON activities were significantly higher, whereas MDA levels in the CeO₂-T/D group were significantly lower compared with those in the T/D group. The T/D group had increased Bax and decreased Bcl-2 expression levels in their seminiferous tubules compared with the control and CeO₂ groups. CeO₂ treatment led to downregulation of Bax and upregulation of Bcl-2. The expression of p53 was high in the T/D group compared with that in the control and CeO2 groups, and was upregulated in all germinal cells. However, compared with that in the T/D group, p53 expression was significantly decreased in the CeO₂-T/D group. The testicular injury score significantly increased in the CeO₂-T/D group compared with the control and CeO₂ groups. Rats in the CeO₂-T/D group demonstrated significantly milder tissue lesions compared with those in T/D group. The present findings indicated that nanoceria may protect testis in rats against the harmful effects of T/D. Further studies are required to evaluate how CeO₂ reduces oxidative stress and cell death in testis tissue that underwent T/D-related injury.

Coumaric acid ameliorates experimental colitis in rats through attenuation of oxidative stress, inflammatory response and apoptosis

OBJECTIVE

Due to the high side effects of commonly used drugs and according to the pharmacological properties reported for coumaric acid (CA), this study was designed to determine the impact of CA on acetic acid-induced colitis in rats, considering its possible anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic properties.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-eight male Wistar rats were divided into 6 equal groups (n = 8). Colitis was induced by acetic acid intrarectally. CA in three different doses (50, 100, and 150 mg/kg) was administrated for 5 days. Finally, the macroscopic and histopathological changes in the colon tissue were examined. The expression of inflammatory and apoptotic genes, including NF-κB, TNF-α, INOS, IL-1β, IL-6, TLR4, Caspase-3, Caspase-8, Bax, Bcl-2 was assessed. In addition, changes in the levels of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), nitrite, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were measured in the colon tissue.

RESULTS

Colitis led to a decrease in TAC and the activity levels of CAT and SOD and an increase in the expression of inflammatory and apoptotic genes, MDA, and nitrite levels in the colon. Colitis was also associated with edema and severe damage to the epithelium, infiltration of inflammatory cells, and the presence of ulcers and necrosis in the colon tissue. CA significantly improved the inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and histopathological indices caused by acetic acid-induced colitis on the colon.

CONCLUSION

It is concluded that CA probably exerts its positive effects in the management of colitis, through its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic properties.

Effect of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis SF on enhancing the tumor suppression of irinotecan by regulating the intestinal flora

The gut microbiota plays a role in tumor therapy by participating in immune regulation. Here, we demonstrated through 8-day probiotic supplementation experiments and fecal microbiota transplantation experiments that Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis SF enhanced the antitumor effect of irinotecan and prevented the occurrence of intestinal damage by modulating the gut microbiota and reducing the relative abundance of pro-inflammatory microbiota. Therefore, the intestinal inflammation was inhibited, the TGF-β leakage was reduced, and the PI3K/AKT pathway activation was inhibited. Thus, the tumor apoptotic autophagy was finally promoted. Simultaneously, the reduction of TGF-β relieved the immunosuppression caused by CPT-11, promoted the differentiation of CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells in tumor tissue, and consequently inhibited tumor growth and invasion. This study disclosed the mechanism of B. lactis SF assisting CPT-11 in antitumor activity and suggested that B. lactis SF plays a new role in anticancer effects as a nutritional intervention.

Effect of low energy shock wave on testicular microenvironment homeostasis in rats

OBJECTIVE

To further investigate whether two sets of low-energy extracorporeal shock waves (LESWs) impulse parameters, i.e., 0.02 mJ/mm² for 500 impulses and 0.04 mJ/mm² for 500 impulses, which have been shown to directly affect the testes, can promote testicular spermatogenesis or positively regulate homeostasis of the testicular microenvironment.

METHODS

(1) Twenty-four experimental rats were randomly divided into a 0.02 mJ/mm² 500 impulses group (L1 group), a 0.04 mJ/mm² 500 impulses group (M1 group), a sham intervention group (S group) and a blank control group (N group). The experiment period was 8 weeks. (2) Apoptosis of the spermatogenic cells in the left testicle was detected by the TUNEL method, VEGF and eNOs protein expression was detected by immunohistochemistry, and histomorphological changes were observed in PAS-stained sections. Moreover, the morphologies of the spermatogenic tubules and testicular stroma were quantitatively analyzed by stereological analysis. The right testicle was used for Western blot detection of the protein expression levels of Bax, Cytochrome C, Caspase-3, Bcl-2, VEGF and eNOs.

RESULTS

Compared with the other three groups, the rate of M1 testicular germ cell apoptosis induced by shock treatment was higher, the expression levels of proapoptotic proteins increased significantly while that of the antiapoptotic protein was lower, and the suppression of cell proliferation correlated with the protein expression levels. Additionally, with respect to the absolute volume of the seminiferous tubules, the absolute interstitial testicular volume notably increased, producing a series of biological effects working against testicular sperm production and function. However, there was no significant difference between the L1 group and the N and S groups.

CONCLUSIONS

LESWs treatment with impulse parameters of 0.02 mJ/mm² for 500 impulses showed a better protective effect on testicular spermatic function in rats and has a positive regulatory biological effect.

Impacts of cadmium on male fertility: Lessons learnt so far

Cadmium (Cd) is one of the most dangerous heavy metals in the world. Globally, toxicities associated with cadmium and its attendant negative impact on humans and animals cannot be under-estimated. Cd is a heavy metal, and people are exposed to it through contaminated foods and smoking. Cd exerts its deleterious impacts on the testes (male reproductive system) by inducing oxidative stress, spermatogenic cells apoptosis, testicular inflammation, decreasing androgenic and sperm cell functions, disrupting ionic homeostasis, pathways and epigenetic gene regulation, damaging vascular endothelium and blood testes barrier. In association with other industrial by-products, Cd has been incriminated for the recent decline of male fertility rate seen in both man and animals. Understanding the processes involved in Cd-induced testicular toxicity is vital for the innovation of techniques that will help ameliorate infertility in males. In this review, we summed up recent studies on the processes of testicular toxicity and male infertility due to Cd exposure. Also, the usage of different compounds including phytochemicals, and plant extracts to manage Cd reprotoxicity will be reviewed.

Study of the dynamics of in vitro infection with bovine gammaherpesvirus type 4 and apoptosis markers in susceptible cells

Bovine gammaherpesvirus type 4 (BoHV-4) shows tropism for the endometrium, in which it causes the death of epithelial and stroma cells. Despite having anti-apoptotic genes in its genome, experiments based on immortalized cell lines have shown that BoHV-4 induces cell death by apoptosis. In the present study, we evaluated BoHV-4 replication, pro-apoptotic (Bax) and anti-apoptotic (Bcl-2) mitochondrial genes expression and chromatin condensation in bovine endometrium primary culture cells (BEC) and in the Madin Darby bovine kidney (MDBK) cell line. Results showed that BoHV-4 has a preference for replication in BEC cells over the MDBK cell line, demonstrated by the high viral titer that is consistent with the tropism of the virus. In BEC cells, chromatin condensation was consistent with the values of viral kinetics at the late stage of infection, accompanied with a balance in the mRNA levels of apoptotic mitochondrial proteins. As a consequence, in those cells viral transmission would be enhanced by inhibiting apoptosis in the early stage of virus proliferation, allowing the complete production of viral progeny, and then, the induction of apoptosis in late stages would allow neighboring cells infection. In MDBK cells replication kinetics was coincident with the up-regulation of Bcl-2, which suggests that the productive infection in MDBK is associated with a lytic phase of the virus or another cell death pathway (probably autophagy mechanism) at the late stage of infection. The results agree with the study of nuclear morphology, where a constant chromatin condensation was observed over time. It is clear that the documented BoHV-4 apoptotic responses observed in the cell lines studied above are not valid in cells from primary cultures. The data presented in this study suggest that BoHV-4 could induce apoptosis in BEC cells without a leading role of the mitochondria pathway. Further studies will be necessary to characterize in detail the programmed cell death pathways involved in BoHV-4 infection in the primary cell cultures evaluated.

Integrins Cooperate With the EGFR/Ras Pathway to Preserve Epithelia Survival and Architecture in Development and Oncogenesis

Adhesion to the extracellular matrix (ECM) is required for normal epithelial cell survival. Disruption of this interaction leads to a specific type of apoptosis known as anoikis. Yet, there are physiological and pathological situations in which cells not connected to the ECM are protected from anoikis, such as during cell migration or metastasis. The main receptors transmitting signals from the ECM are members of the integrin family. However, although integrin-mediated cell-ECM anchorage has been long recognized as crucial for epithelial cell survival, the in vivo significance of this interaction remains to be weighed. In this work, we have used the Drosophila wing imaginal disc epithelium to analyze the importance of integrins as survival factors during epithelia morphogenesis. We show that reducing integrin expression in the wing disc induces caspase-dependent cell death and basal extrusion of the dead cells. In this case, anoikis is mediated by the activation of the JNK pathway, which in turn triggers expression of the proapoptotic protein Hid. In addition, our results strongly suggest that, during wing disc morphogenesis, the EGFR pathway protects cells undergoing cell shape changes upon ECM detachment from anoikis. Furthermore, we show that oncogenic activation of the EGFR/Ras pathway in integrin mutant cells rescues them from apoptosis while promoting their extrusion from the epithelium. Altogether, our results support the idea that integrins promote cell survival during normal tissue morphogenesis and prevent the extrusion of transformed cells.

Cariporide Attenuates Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity in Rats by Inhibiting Oxidative Stress, Inflammation and Apoptosis Partly Through Regulation of Akt/GSK-3β and Sirt1 Signaling Pathway

Background: Doxorubicin (DOX) is a potent chemotherapeutic agent with limited usage due to its cumulative cardiotoxicity. The Na⁺/H⁺ exchanger isoform 1 (NHE1) is a known regulator of oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. The present study was designed to investigate the possible protective effect of cariporide (CAR), a selective inhibitor of NHE1, against DOX-induced cardiotoxicity in rats.

Methods: Male Sprague-Dawley rats were intraperitoneally injected with DOX to induce cardiac toxicity and CAR was given orally for treatment. The injured H9c2 cell model was established by incubation with DOX in vitro. Echocardiography, as well as morphological and ultra-structural examination were performed to evaluate cardiac function and histopathological changes. The biochemical parameters were determined according to the manufacturer’s guideline of kits. ROS were assessed by using an immunofluorescence assay. The serum levels and mRNA expressions of inflammatory cytokines were measured by using ELISA or qRT-PCR. Cardiac cell apoptosis and H9c2 cell viability were tested by TUNEL or MTT method respectively. The protein expressions of Cleaved-Caspase-3, Bcl-2, Bax, Akt, GSK-3β, and Sirt1 were detected by western blot.

Results: Treatment with CAR protected against DOX-induced body weight changes, impairment of heart function, leakage of cardiac enzymes, and heart histopathological damage. In addition, CAR significantly attenuated oxidative stress and inhibited the levels and mRNA expressions of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-18, and IL-1β), which were increased by DOX treatment. Moreover, CAR significantly suppressed myocardial apoptosis and Cleaved-Caspase-3 protein expression induced by DOX, which was in agreement with the increased Bcl-2/Bax ratio. Also, DOX suppressed phosphorylation of Akt and GSK-3β, which was significantly reversed by administration of CAR. Furthermore, CAR treatment prevented DOX-induced down-regulation of Sirt1 at the protein level in vitro and in vivo. Finally, Sirt1 inhibitor reversed the protective effects of CAR, as evidenced by reduced cell viability and Sirt1 protein expression in vitro.

Conclusion: Taken together, we provide evidence for the first time in the current study that CAR exerts potent protective effects against DOX-induced cardiotoxicity in rats. This cardio-protective effect is attributed to suppressing oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis, at least in part, through regulation of Akt/GSK-3β and Sirt1 signaling pathway, which has not been reported to date.

Fumonisin B1 Induces Immunotoxicity and Apoptosis of Chicken Splenic Lymphocytes

Fumonisin B₁ (FB₁), produced by Fusarium, is among the most abundant and toxic mycotoxin contaminations in feed, causing damages to the health of livestock. However, the mechanisms of FB₁ toxicity in chickens are less understood. As splenic lymphocytes play important roles in the immune system, the aim of this study was to investigate the immunotoxic effects and mechanisms of FB₁ on chicken splenic lymphocytes. In the present study, the chicken primary splenic lymphocytes were harvested and treated with 0, 2.5, 5, 10, 20 and 40 μg/mL FB₁. Then, the cell proliferation, damage, ultrastructure, inflammation and apoptosis were evaluated. Results showed that the proliferation rate of splenic lymphocytes was decreased by FB₁ treatments. The activity of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) was increased by FB₁ treatments in a dose-dependent manner, implying the induction of cell damage. Consistently, the ultrastructure of splenic lymphocytes showed that FB₁ at all the tested concentrations caused cell structure alterations, including nuclear vacuolation, mitochondrial swelling and mitochondrial crest fracture. Besides, immunosuppressive effects of FB₁ were observed by the decreased concentrations of interleukin-2 (IL-2), IL-4, IL-12 and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) in the cell culture supernatant. Furthermore, apoptosis was observed in FB₁-treated cells by flow cytometry. The mRNA expressions of apoptosis-related genes showed that the expression of Bcl-2 was decreased, while the expressions of the P53, Bax, Bak-1, and Caspase-3 were increased with FB₁ treatment. Similar results were found in the concentrations of apoptosis-related proteins in the cell supernatant by ELISA assay. Moreover, regression analysis indicated that increasing FB₁ concentration increased LDH activity, concentrations of Bax, Bak-1 and mRNA expression of Bak-1 linearly, increased M1 area percentage quadratically, decreased concentration of IFN-γ, mRNA expression of Bcl-2 linearly, and decreased concentrations of IL-2 and IL-4 quadratically. Besides, regression analysis also showed reciprocal relationships between IL-12 concentration, Caspase-3 mRNA expression and increasing FB₁ concentration. The increasing FB₁ concentration could decrease IL-12 concentration and increase Caspase-3 mRNA expression. Altogether, this study reported that FB₁ induced the immunotoxicity of chicken splenic lymphocytes and caused splenic lymphocytes apoptosis by the Bcl-2 family-mediated mitochondrial pathway of caspase activation.

Rosuvastatin Alleviates Coronary Microembolization-Induced Cardiac Injury by Suppressing Nox2-Induced ROS Overproduction and Myocardial Apoptosis

To explore the mechanism by which rosuvastatin prevents coronary microembolism (CME)-induced cardiac injury and cardiomyocyte apoptosis. Animal and cell models of CME were established and treated with different doses of rosuvastatin. Echocardiography and histological staining were applied to assess left ventricular function and cardiac injury. Masson trichrome staining was used to evaluate fibrin deposition in the myocardium. The activity of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in serum and cell culture supernatant was detected. TUNEL staining and flow cytometry were used to evaluate apoptosis in myocardium and cardiomyocytes, respectively. The activity of ROS was revealed by DHE staining. The expression levels of Nox2, cleaved caspase-3, cytochrome C, p53, Bax and Bcl-2 were also detected. Rosuvastatin pretreatment improved the left ventricular function of CME mice and reduced inflammatory cell infiltration and fibrin deposition in the myocardium. Rosuvastatin reduced the production of ROS by inhibiting the expression of Nox2. Rosuvastatin also downregulated pro-apoptotic proteins cleaved caspase-3, cytochrome C, p53 and Bax, and upregulated anti-apoptotic Bcl-2. Rosuvastatin mitigates CME-induced cardiac injury by inhibiting Nox2-induced ROS overproduction and alleviating p53/Bax/Bcl-2-dependent cardiomyocyte apoptosis.

Asiatic Acid Alleviates Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury by Inhibiting the ROS-Mediated Mitochondria-Dependent Apoptosis Pathway

Myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI) is a major cause of heart failure in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD). Mitochondrial dysfunction is the crucial factor of MIRI; oxidative stress caused by mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) aggravates myocardial cell damage through the mitochondria-dependent apoptosis pathway. Asiatic acid (AA) is a type of pentacyclic triterpene compound purified from the traditional Chinese medicine Centella asiatica, and its protective pharmacological activities have been reported in various disease models. This study is aimed at investigating the protective effects of AA and the underlying mechanisms in MIRI. To achieve this goal, an animal model of MIRI in vivo and a cell model of oxygen-glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R) in vitro were established. The results show that AA exerts a protective effect on MIRI by improving cardiac function and reducing cardiomyocyte damage. Due to its antioxidant properties, AA alleviates mitochondrial oxidative stress, as evidenced by the stable mitochondrial structure, maintained mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and reduced ROS generation, otherwise due to its antiapoptotic properties. AA inhibits the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/mitochondria-dependent apoptosis pathway, as evidenced by the limited phosphorylation of p38-MAPK and JNK-MAPK, balanced proportion of Bcl-2/Bax, reduced cytochrome c release, inhibition of caspase cascade, and reduced apoptosis. In conclusion, our study confirms that AA exerts cardiac-protective effects by regulating ROS-induced oxidative stress via the MAPK/mitochondria-dependent apoptosis pathway; the results provide new evidence that AA may represent a potential treatment for CHD patients.

Protective Effect of Shenfu Injection () on Vascular Endothelial Damage in a Porcine Model of Hemorrhagic Shock

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of Shenfu Injection (, SFI) on endothelial damage in a porcine model of hemorrhagic shock (HS).

METHODS

After being bled to a mean arterial pressure of 40±3 mm Hg and held for 60 min, 32 pigs were treated with a venous injection of either shed blood (transfusion group), shed blood and saline (saline group), shed blood and SFI (SFI group) or without resuscitation (sham group). Venous blood samples were collected and analyzed at baseline and 0, 1, 2, 4, and 6 h after HS. Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), serum interleuking (IL)-6, and IL-10 levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA); expressions of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM -1), von Willebrand factor (vWF), plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) and Bcl-2, Bax, and caspase-3 proteins were determined by Western blot.

RESULTS

The serum level of TNF-α in the SFI group was significantly lower than in the other groups at 0, 1, and 2 h after HS, while the level of IL-6 was lower at 4 and 6 h compared with the saline group (P<0.01 or P<0.05). The concentration of serum IL-10 was significantly higher in the SFI group than in the other groups at 0, 1, 4, and 6 h after HS (P<0.01). Western blot and immunohistochemistry of vascular tissue showed that the expression of caspase-3 was downregulated, and that of Bcl-2 and Bax was upregulated in the SFI group compared to other groups (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

SFI attenuated endothelial injury in the porcine model of HS by inhibiting cell apoptosis, suppressing the formation of proinflammatory cytokines, and reducing endothelial activation.

Excretory-secretory product of Trichinella spiralis inhibits tumor cell growth by regulating the immune response and inducing apoptosis

The excretory-secretory product (ESP) of Trichinella spiralis (T. spiralis) has been reported to inhibit the growth of various tumor cells, but the mechanism is not yet clear. To explore the effect and mechanism of ESP on liver cancer cells, tumor models were established with H22 cells and then infected with T. spiralis. The results showed that the growth of tumors in mice infected with T. spiralis was significantly inhibited. ESP from adult worms or muscle larvae were then incubated with H22 cells in vitro, and it was found that the ESP could inhibit cell proliferation and promote apoptosis. Subsequently, apoptosis-related proteins in stimulated H22 cells were evaluated, and ESP was found to induce cell apoptosis through the mitochondrial pathway. Additionally, Th-related cytokines were investigated in vivo, and the results showed that the levels of Th1 cytokines were significantly increased in the early stage of T. spiralis infection, while Th2 cytokines increased later than Th1 cytokines, implying that Th1 cytokines with antitumor effects may play a role in inhibiting tumor growth at early stage. In short, ESP can directly induce tumor cell apoptosis and indirectly inhibit tumor cell growth through the host immune system, which may be the antitumor mechanism of T. spiralis infection.

Dichloromethane fractions of Calystegia soldanella induce S‑phase arrest and apoptosis in HT‑29 human colorectal cancer cells

Calystegia soldanella is a halophyte and a perennial herb that grows on coastal sand dunes worldwide. Extracts from this plant have been previously revealed to have a variety of bioactive properties in humans. However, their effects on colorectal cancer cells remain poorly understood. In the present study, the potential biological activity of C. soldanella extracts in the colorectal cancer cell line HT-29 was examined. First, five solvent fractions [n-hexane, dichloromethane (DCM), ethyl acetate, n-butanol and water] were obtained from the crude extracts of C. soldanella through an organic solvent extraction method. In particular, the DCM fraction was demonstrated to exert marked dose- and time-dependent inhibitory effects according to results from the cell viability assay. Data obtained from the apoptosis assay suggested that the inhibition of HT-29 cell viability induced by DCM treatment was attributed to increased apoptosis. The apoptotic rate was markedly increased in a dose-dependent manner, which was associated with the protein expression levels of apoptosis-related proteins, including increased Fas, Bad and Bax, and decreased pro-caspase-8, Bcl-2, Bcl-xL, pro-caspase-9, pro-caspase-7 and pro-caspase-3. A mitochondrial membrane potential assay demonstrated that more cells became depolarized and the extent of cytochrome c release was markedly increased in a dose-dependent manner in HT-29 cells treated with DCM. In addition, cell cycle analysis confirmed S-phase arrest following DCM fraction treatment, which was associated with decreased protein expression levels of cell cycle-related proteins, such as cyclin A, CDK2, cell division cycle 25 A and cyclin dependent kinase inhibitor 1. Based on these results, the present study suggested that the DCM fraction of the C. soldanella extract can inhibit HT-29 cell viability whilst inducing apoptosis through mitochondrial membrane potential regulation and S-phase arrest. These results also suggested that the DCM fraction has potential anticancer activity in HT-29 colorectal cells. Further research on the composition of the DCM fraction is warranted.

In vivo Study of a Newly Synthesized Chromen-4-one Derivative as an Antitumor Agent against HCC

BACKGROUND

Chromenes are a wide group of natural compounds that can be synthesized chemically. The chromen-4-one nucleus acts as a skeleton for varieties of additional active groups that makes the chromene activity vary between antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents. In the present study, a newly synthesized chromene compound exhibits different behaviors other than anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities that it is the first time that a member of chromen-4-one compound can control the cancer progress. Inflammation is the first step in tumor development where the severity grade can potentiate tumor growth and progression. In many tumors, pro-inflammatory genes record high expression level such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) and vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF). These pro-inflammatory factors act as rate limiting steps in tumor initiation, and controlling its expression acts as an early therapeutic way to control the tumor proliferation. The chromone derivatives have biological activities such as anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor activity.

METHODS

In the present study, hepatocellular cancer (HCC) induced by diethylnitrosamine (DEN) in rats and then treated with the new chromene derivative and the parameters TNF-α, VEGF, p53, Cyt C, MMP-9, Bcl2, and Bax were measured.

RESULTS

The treatment strategy Ch compound is to downregulate pro-inflammatory gene expression of early genes as TNF-α as well as VEGF and subsequently control other factors such as p53, Cyt C, and MMP-9. Also, retrieve the balance between Bcl2 and Bax proteins in DEN-induced HCC in rats.

CONCLUSION

The ability of the new Ch derivative to control the primary initiators of HCC such as TNF-α offers this derivative an anti-tumor activity and encourages further researches to follow and monitor its effect on the molecular level.

Designing BH3-Mimetic Peptide Inhibitors for the Viral Bcl-2 Homologues A179L and BHRF1: Importance of Long-Range Electrostatic Interactions

Viruses have evolved strategies to prevent apoptosis of infected cells at early stages of infection. The viral proteins (vBcl-2s) from specific viral genes adopt a helical fold that is structurally similar to that of mammalian antiapoptotic Bcl-2 proteins and exhibit little sequence similarity. Hence, vBcl-2 homologues are attractive targets to prevent viral infection. However, very few studies have focused on developing inhibitors for vBcl-2 homologues. In this study, we have considered two vBcl-2 homologues, A179L from African swine fever virus and BHRF1 from Epstein-Barr virus. We generated two sets of 8000 randomized BH3-like sequences from eight wild-type proapoptotic BH3 peptides. During this process, the four conserved hydrophobic residues and an Asp residue were retained at their respective positions, and all other positions were substituted randomly without any bias. We constructed 8000 structures each for A179L and BHRF1 in complex with BH3-like sequences. Histograms of interaction energies calculated between the peptide and the protein resulted in negatively skewed distributions. The BH3-like peptides with high helical propensities selected from the negative tail of the respective interaction energy distributions exhibited more favorable interactions with A179L and BHRF1, and they are rich in basic residues. Molecular dynamics studies and electrostatic potential maps further revealed that both acidic and basic residues favorably interact with A179L, while only basic residues have the most favorable interactions with BHRF1. As in mammalian homologues, the role of long-range interactions and nonhotspot residues has to be taken into account while designing specific BH3-mimetic inhibitors for vBcl-2 homologues.

Effects of andrographolide on renal tubulointersticial injury and fibrosis. Evidence of its mechanism of action

BACKGROUND

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is associated with renal interstitial injury and fibrosis. Our previous study showed that andrographolide protected against the progression of DN and high glucose (HG)-induced mesangial dysfunction. However, the protective effects of andrographolide on renal tubular epithelial cells have not been fully elucidated.

PURPOSE

To determine the protective effects of andrographolide on renal tubular damage and explore the underlying mechanism.

STUDY DESIGN

Human tubular epithelial cells (HK-2 cells) were treated with andrographolide (5 and 10 μM) under HG conditions. Diabetic mice were treated with andrographolide (i.p. 2 and 4 mg/kg, twice per week).

METHODS

Western blotting, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), immunofluorescence and flow cytometry were used to analyze the effects of andrographolide on renal tubular injury and fibrotic mechanisms in HK-2 cells. The protective effects of andrographolide against renal tubulointerstitial injury and fibrosis were investigated in diabetic mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD). Renal interstitial tissue was collected at sacrifice for immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence analysis, RT-PCR and Western blotting to analyze the effects of andrographolide on renal tubular injury and fibrosis.

RESULTS

In vitro assay results indicated that andrographolide (5 and 10 μM) effectively inhibited HG-induced apoptosis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and collagen deposition in HK-2 cells. Mechanistically, HG stimulated mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS)-mediated NOD-like receptor family and pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation and EMT in tubular epithelial cells, and andrographolide (5 and 10 μM) inhibited these effects by ameliorating mitochondrial dysfunction. In vivo, treatment with andrographolide (2 and 4 mg/kg) inhibited renal tubular cell apoptosis, EMT and tubulointerstitial fibrosis, mitochondrial dysfunction and NLRP3 inflammasome activation in diabetic mice.

CONCLUSION

Andrographolide (5 and 10 μM) prevents HG-induced renal tubular cell damage, and andrographolide (2 and 4 mg/kg) protects against the progression of diabetic tubular injury and fibrosis in mice by suppressing mitochondrial dysfunction and NLRP3 inflammasome activation.

Male subfertility and oxidative stress

To date 15% of couples are suffering from infertility with 45-50% of males being responsible. With an increase in paternal age as well as various environmental and lifestyle factors worsening these figures are expected to increase. As the so-called free radical theory of infertility suggests, free radicals or reactive oxygen species (ROS) play an essential role in this process. However, ROS also fulfill important functions for instance in sperm maturation. The aim of this review article is to discuss the role reactive oxygen species play in male fertility and how these are influenced by lifestyle, age or disease. We will further discuss how these ROS are measured and how they can be avoided during in-vitro fertilization.

Near infrared II laser controlled free radical releasing nanogenerator for synergistic nitric oxide and alkyl radical therapy of breast cancer

Recently, alkyl radicals have attracted much attention in cancer therapy due to their oxygen-independent generation property. For the first time, alkyl radical and nitric oxide (NO) combined therapy is demonstrated as an effective strategy for tumor inhibition. As a proof of concept, a biocompatible free radical nanogenerator with near-infrared (NIR) II laser-induced simultaneous NO and alkyl radical release property was elaborately fabricated. In particular, an NIR II molecule (IR 1061), NO donor (BNN6) and alkyl radical initiator (AIPH) were firstly encapsulated in a natural lecithin stabilized phase change material, and then further functionalized by an amphiphile of DSPE-PEG-RGD with specific tumor targeting ability, finally obtaining biocompatible P(IR/BNN6/AIPH)@Lip-RGD. Upon NIR II laser irradiation, the photothermal effect generated from IR 1061 could trigger the phase change of the nanogenerator by releasing the encapsulated BNN6 and AIPH, and subsequently decompose them to generate highly active NO and alkyl radicals. Remarkably, NO and alkyl radical release profiles of P(IR/BNN6/AIPH)@Lip-RGD could be precisely controlled using intermittent NIR II laser irradiation. Moreover, P(IR/BNN6/AIPH)@Lip-RGD displayed a synergistic NO and alkyl radicals' anticancer effect by significantly inhibiting the growth of breast tumors, upon NIR II laser exposure. Furthermore, an in depth mechanistic study revealed that synergistic NO and alkyl radical effect induced cancer cell apoptosis through a mitochondria-mediated apoptotic pathway. The synergistic effect jointly caused a burst generation of mitochondrial ROS, which significantly down-regulated Bcl-2 protein expression, accelerated cytochrome c release and triggered a cascade of apoptosis-related proteins of Caspase-3 and Caspase-9.

Resveratrol attenuates retinal ganglion cell loss in a mouse model of retinal ischemia reperfusion injury via multiple pathways

BACKGROUND

Resveratrol (RES) is a natural polyphenol that has been shown to protect retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) following retinal ischemia reperfusion (I/R) injury. However, the molecular mechanisms of resveratrol function are yet to be fully elucidated. Thus, this study explored the potential mechanisms of resveratrol in vivo.

METHODS

A retinal ischemia reperfusion injury model was established in adult male C57BL/6 J mice. Intraperitoneal injection of resveratrol was administered continuously for 5 days. RGC survival was determined by immunofluorescence staining with Brn3a. Flash electroretinography (ERG) was conducted to assess visual function. Proteins of HIF-1a, VEGF, p38, p53, PI3K, Akt, Bax, Bcl2, and Cleaved Caspase3 were detected using Western blot.

RESULTS

RES administration significantly ameliorated retinal thickness damage and increased Brn3a stained RGCs 7 days after I/R injury. We also found that administration of RES remarkably inhibited the upregulation of mitochondrial apoptosis-related protein Bax and Cleaved Caspase3, as well as increased the expression of Bcl2. Furthermore, RES administration significantly suppressed the I/R injury-induced upregulation of the HIF-1a/VEGF and p38/p53 pathways, while activating the I/R injury-induced downregulation of the PI3K/Akt pathway. Moreover, RES administration remarkably improved retinal function after I/R injury-induced functional impairment.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data demonstrated that resveratrol can mitigate retinal ischemic injury induced RGC loss and retinal function impairment by inhibiting the HIF-1a/VEGF and p38/p53 pathways while activating the PI3K/Akt pathway. Therefore, our results further reinforce that resveratrol has potential for treating glaucoma.

Gestational Low Protein Diet Modulation on miRNA Transcriptome and Its Target During Fetal and Breastfeeding Nephrogenesis

BACKGROUND

The kidney ontogenesis is the most structurally affected by gestational protein restriction, reducing 28% of their functional units. The reduced nephron number is predictive of hypertension and cardiovascular dysfunctions that are generally observed in the adult age of most fetal programming models. We demonstrate miRNAs and predict molecular pathway changes associated with reduced reciprocal interaction between metanephros cap (CM) and ureter bud (UB) and a 28% decreased nephron stem cells in the 17 gestational days (17GD) low protein (LP) intake male fetal kidney. Here, we evaluated the same miRNAs and predicted targets in the kidneys of 21GD and at 7 days of life (7DL) LP offspring to elucidate the molecular modulations during nephrogenesis.

METHODS

Pregnant Wistar rats were allocated into two groups: NP (regular protein diet- 17%) or LP (diet-6%). miRNA transcriptome sequencing (miRNA-Seq) was performed on the MiSeq platform from 21GD and 7DL male offspring kidneys using previously described methods. Among the top 10 dysfunctional regulated miRNAs, we validated 7 related to proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis processes and investigated predicted target genes and proteins by RT-qPCR and immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

In 21GD, LP fetuses were identified alongside 21 differently expressed miRNAs, of which 12 were upregulated and 9 downregulated compared to age-matched NP offspring. In 7-DL LP offspring, the differentially expressed miRNAs were counted to be 74, of which 46 were upregulated and 28 downregulated. The curve from 17-GD to 7-DL shows that mTOR was fundamental in reducing the number of nephrons in fetal kidneys where the mothers were subjected to a protein restriction. IGF1 and TGFβ curves also seemed to present the same mTOR pattern and were modulated by miRNAs 181a-5p, 181a-3p, and 199a-5p. The miRNA 181c-3p modulated SIX2 and Notch1 reduction in 7-DL but not in terms of the enhanced expression of both in the 21-GD, suggesting the participation of an additional regulator. We found enhanced Bax in 21-GD; it was regulated by miRNA 298-5p, and Bcl2 and Caspase-3 were controlled by miRNA (by 7a-5p and not by the predicted 181a-5p). The miRNA 144-3p regulated BCL6, which was enhanced, as well as Zeb 1 and 2 induced by BCL6. These results revealed that in 21GD, the compensatory mechanisms in LP kidneys led to the activation of UB ramification. Besides, an increase of 32% in the CM stem cells and a possible cell cycle halt of renal progenitor cells, which remaining undifferentiated, were observed. In the 7DL, much more altered miRNA expression was found in LP kidneys, and this was probably due to an increased maternal diet content. Additionally, we verified the activation of pathways related to differentiation and consumption of progenitor cells.

Mesenchymal stem cells support delivery and boost the efficacy of oncolytic reoviruses in TC-1 tumor cells

Cancer has remained a major health problem around the world. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs)-based therapy exhibits a therapeutic effect via different mechanisms. By using MSCs as carrier cells, the major problem of clearance of oncolytic viruses is resolved by neutralizing antibodies before they react with cancer cells. The aim of this study was to characterize the effect of infected MSCs by reovirus type-3 Dearing (T3D) for in vitro cancer therapy. Adipose-derived MSCs (AD-MSCs) were infected with reovirus T3D and its biological properties were evaluated. Then, the effects of reovirus-infected AD-MSCs on cytokine profile, nitric oxide (NO) production, and apoptosis induction in TC-1 cells were assessed. Our results indicated that the differentiation potential of AD-MSCs was affected by reovirus. However, phenotypes were not affected after infection. Then, the effects of reovirus-infected AD-MSCs in TC-1 cells showed an increased amount of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and NO production and a decreased amount of transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) and interleukin-10 (IL-10). Moreover, apoptosis significantly increased via coculturing of TC-1 cells with infected AD-MSCs, compared with control, and both internal and external apoptosis pathways are activated in experimental groups. In conclusion, the data showed that with increasing TNF-α and NO production and reducing IL-10 and TGF-β production, AD-MSCs can enhance the oncolytic effect of reovirus in cancer cells. Furthermore, the results suggested that AD-MSCs can be used as effective carrier cells candidate for reovirus T3D to maximize their anticancer cell activity.

Horizontal Transfer of miR-643 from Cisplatin-Resistant Cells Confers Chemoresistance to Recipient Drug-Sensitive Cells by Targeting APOL6

Acquisition of resistance to cisplatin is a major impediment to the success of cisplatin-based combination therapies for cancer. Recent studies indicate that exosomal miRNAs derived from drug-resistant tumour cells can confer resistance properties to recipient cells by a horizontal transfer mechanism. Although the role of horizontal transfer of a few miRNAs has been described, little is known about the concerted action of horizontal transfer of miRNAs in conferring cisplatin resistance. The present study was designed to identify the role of miR-643, which is one of the most significantly increased miRNA in exosomes released from cisplatin-resistant Heptocarcinoma cells, in altering the cisplatin resistance properties of recipient cells. Drug-sensitivity assays involving miR-643 revealed that ectopic expression of miR-643 can desensitise the cells towards cisplatin. Furthermore, we identified APOL6 as a major target of miR-643. Further mechanistic studies showed that miR-643 can modulate APOL6 mRNA and protein levels, leading to a reversal of APOL6-mediated apoptosis. Altogether, our results suggest an APOL6-dependent mechanism for miR-643 mediated cisplatin resistance upon the horizontal transfer across cell types.

Osthole improves pulmonary artery hypertension by inducing apoptosis in pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells

OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this study were to explore the effect of Osthole (Ost) on apoptosis in pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) and investigate the potential mechanism of this effect.

METHODS

Rats were injected subcutaneously with monocrotaline (MCT) to establish a PAH model, and Ost were intragastrically administrated from day 1 to day 35. After 35 days administration, the mean pulmonary artery pressure and lung weight index were measured. HE and TUNEL staining were used to observe the morphology of pulmonary artery and the apoptosis of PASMCs. In addition, the apoptosis of PASMCs were detected by flow cytometry in cultured PASMCs. The proteins of Bax and Bcl-2, and the levels of p-ASK1 and cleaved caspase 3 were measured by Western blot.

KEY FINDINGS

Ost decreased the mean pulmonary artery pressure and lung weight index in MCT-induced rats, and promoted apoptosis in PASMCs in MCT-induced rats and PDGF-BB stimulated PASMCs. Ost increased the ratio of Bax/Bcl-2 and the levels of p-ASK1, cleaved caspase 3 in MCT-induced rats and PDGF-BB stimulated PASMCs.

CONCLUSION

Ost promoted apoptosis in PASMCs in vivo and in vitro, and the mechanism may be associated with upregulation of ASK1 and the Bax/Bcl-2-caspase 3 signalling pathway.

Scutellarin ameliorates high glucose-induced vascular endothelial cells injury by activating PINK1/Parkin-mediated mitophagy

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Scutellarin (Scu) is one of the main active ingredients of Erigeron breviscapus (Vant.) Hand.-Mazz which has been used to treat cardiovascular disease including vascular dysfunction caused by diabetes. Scu also has a protective effect on vascular endothelial cells against hyperglycemia. However, molecular mechanisms underlying this effect are not clear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Scu on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) injury induced by high glucose (HG), especially the regulation of PTEN-induced kinase 1 (PINK1)/Parkin-mediated mitophagy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

HUVECs were exposed to HG to induce vascular endothelial cells injury in vitro. Cell viability was assessed by MTT assay. The extent of cell apoptosis was measured by Hoechst staining and flow cytometry. Mitophagy was assayed by fluorescent immunostaining, transmission electron microscope and immunoblot. Besides, virtual docking was conducted to validate the interaction of PINK1 protein and Scu.

RESULTS

We found that Scu significantly increased cell viability in HG-treated HUVECs. Scu reduces the expression of Bcl-2, Bax and cytochrome C (Cyt.c) to inhibit apoptosis through a mitochondria-dependent pathway. Meanwhile, Scu improved the overload of reactive oxygen species (ROS), superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and SOD2 protein expression, and reversed the collapse of mitochondrial membrane potential. Besides, Scu increased autophagic flux, improved the expression of microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 Ⅱ (LC3 II), Beclin 1 and autophagy-related gene 5 (Atg 5) and decreased the expression of Sequestosome1/P62 in HG-treated HUVECs. Furthermore, Scu improved the expressions of PINK1, Parkin, and Mitofusin2, which revealed the enhancement of mitophagy. Moreover, the beneficial effects of Scu on HG-induced low expression of Parkin, overproduction of ROS, and over expressions of P62, Cyt.c and Cleaved caspase-3 were weakened by PINK1 gene knockdown. Molecular docking suggested good interaction of Scu and PINK1 protein.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that Scu may protect vascular endothelial cells against hyperglycemia-induced injury by up-regulating mitophagy via PINK1/Parkin signal pathway.

Cytotoxicity induced by fine particulate matter (PM2.5) via mitochondria-mediated apoptosis pathway in rat alveolar macrophages

Although positive associations exist between ambient particulate matter (PM_2.5; diameter ≤ 2.5 μm) and the morbidity and mortality rates for respiratory diseases, the biological mechanisms of the reported health effects are unclear. Considering that alveolar macrophages (AM) are the main cells responsible for phagocytic clearance of xenobiotic particles that reach the airspaces of the lungs, the purpose of this study was to investigate whether PM_2.5 induced AM apoptosis, and investigate its possible mechanisms. Freshly isolated AM from Wistar rats were treated with extracted PM_2.5 at concentrations of 33, 100, or 300 μg/mL for 4 h; thereafter, the cytotoxic effects were evaluated. The results demonstrated that PM_2.5 induced cytotoxicity by decreasing cell viability and increasing lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels in AMs. The levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and intracellular calcium cations (Ca²⁺) markedly increased in higher PM_2.5 concentration groups. Additionally, the apoptotic ratio increased, and the apoptosis-related proteins BCL2-associated X (Bax), caspase-3, and caspase-9 were upregulated, whereas B cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) protein levels were downregulated following PM_2.5 exposure. Cumulative findings showed that PM_2.5 induced apoptosis in AMs through a mitochondrial-mediated pathway, which indicated that PM_2.5 plays a significant role in lung injury diseases.

Pistachio Green Hull Extract Induces Apoptosis through Multiple Signaling Pathways by Causing Oxidative Stress on Colon Cancer Cells

BACKGROUND

Pistachio is considered to be one of the fifty foods with the highest antioxidant effect. However, the anticancer effect mechanisms of this plant extracts are unknown.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the anticancer effect of different extracts from the green hull of pistachio.

METHODS

The cytotoxic effects of different solvent extracts on cancer and normal cells were examined by cell viability assay and flow cytometric analysis. The levels of the apoptotic gene and protein were investigated by Western Blot and ELISA, and qPCR. The intracellular free radical exchange was determined by oxidative and nitric oxide analyses. DNA damage level was measured by the 8-OHdG test. Phenolic and free fatty acid components were examined by LC-MS/MS and GC-MS, respectively.

RESULTS

It was determined that the n-hexane fraction showed a higher cytotoxic effect on cancer cells. Oxidative and cell cycle analyses indicated that the n-hexane fraction arrested cell cycle of HT-29 at the sub-G1 phase by increasing DNA damage through oxidative stress. In addition, gene expression analysis of the HT-29 treated with the n-hexane fraction indicated that apoptotic and autophagic gene expressions were significantly upregulated. LC-MS/MS analysis of the n-hexane fraction revealed the presence of 15 phenolic compounds, containing mainly gallic acid and catechin hydrate, and GC-MS analysis determined the presence of the following fatty acids: 9-octadecenoic acid, 9,12-octadecadienoic acid and hexadecenoic acid.

CONCLUSION

Based on these grounds, we suggest that the n-hexane fraction of pistachio green hull damages DNA, arrests the cell cycle at the G₁ subphase, and induces apoptosis through oxidative pathways in colon cancer.

Costunolide, a Sesquiterpene Lactone, Suppresses Skin Cancer via Induction of Apoptosis and Blockage of Cell Proliferation

Costunolide is a naturally occurring sesquiterpene lactone that demonstrates various therapeutic actions such as anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. Costunolide has recently emerged as a potential anti-cancer agent in various types of cancer, including colon, lung, and breast cancer. However, its mode of action in skin cancer remains unclear. To determine the anti-cancer potential of costunolide in skin cancer, human epidermoid carcinoma cell line A431 was treated with costunolide. A lactate dehydrogenase assay showed that costunolide diminished the viability of A431 cells. Apoptotic cells were detected by annexin V/propidium iodide double staining and Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase mediated dUTP nick end labeling assay assay, and costunolide induced cell apoptosis via activation of caspase-3 as well as induction of poly-ADP ribose polymerase cleavage in A431 cells. In addition, costunolide elevated the level of the pro-apoptotic protein Bax while lowering the levels of anti-apoptotic proteins, including Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL. To address the inhibitory effect of costunolide on cell proliferation and survival, various signaling pathways, including mitogen-activated protein kinases, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), nuclear factor κB (NF-κB), and Akt, were investigated. Costunolide activated the p38 and c-Jun N-terminal kinase pathways while suppressing the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), STAT3, NF-κB, and Akt pathways in A431 cells. Consequently, it was inferred that costunolide suppresses cell proliferation and survival via these signaling pathways. Taken together, our data clearly indicated that costunolide exerts anti-cancer activity in A431 cells by suppressing cell growth via inhibition of proliferation and promotion of apoptosis. Therefore, it may be employed as a potentially tumor-specific candidate in skin cancer treatment.

Impact of gestational low-protein intake on embryonic kidney microRNA expression and in nephron progenitor cells of the male fetus

BACKGROUND

Here, we have demonstrated that gestational low-protein (LP) intake offspring present lower birth weight, reduced nephron numbers, renal salt excretion, arterial hypertension, and renal failure development compared to regular protein (NP) intake rats in adulthood. We evaluated the expression of various miRNAs and predicted target genes in the kidney in gestational 17-days LP (DG-17) fetal metanephros to identify molecular pathways involved in the proliferation and differentiation of renal embryonic or fetal cells.

METHODS

Pregnant Wistar rats were classified into two groups based on protein supply during pregnancy: NP (regular protein diet, 17%) or LP diet (6%). Renal miRNA sequencing (miRNA-Seq) performed on the MiSeq platform, RT-qPCR of predicted target genes, immunohistochemistry, and morphological analysis of 17-DG NP and LP offspring were performed using previously described methods.

RESULTS

A total of 44 miRNAs, of which 19 were up and 25 downregulated, were identified in 17-DG LP fetuses compared to age-matched NP offspring. We selected 7 miRNAs involved in proliferation, differentiation, and cellular apoptosis. Our findings revealed reduced cell number and Six-2 and c-Myc immunoreactivity in metanephros cap (CM) and ureter bud (UB) in 17-DG LP fetuses. Ki-67 immunoreactivity in CM was 48% lesser in LP compared to age-matched NP fetuses. Conversely, in LP CM and UB, β-catenin was 154%, and 85% increased, respectively. Furthermore, mTOR immunoreactivity was higher in LP CM (139%) and UB (104%) compared to that in NP offspring. TGFβ-1 positive cells in the UB increased by approximately 30% in the LP offspring. Moreover, ZEB1 metanephros-stained cells increased by 30% in the LP offspring. ZEB2 immunofluorescence, although present in the entire metanephros, was similar in both experimental groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Maternal protein restriction changes the expression of miRNAs, mRNAs, and proteins involved in proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis during renal development. Renal ontogenic dysfunction, caused by maternal protein restriction, promotes reduced reciprocal interaction between CM and UB; consequently, a programmed and expressive decrease in nephron number occurs in the fetus.

A Network Pharmacology Approach to Estimate Potential Targets of the Active Ingredients of Epimedium for Alleviating Mild Cognitive Impairment and Treating Alzheimer's Disease

BACKGROUND

The present study made use of a network pharmacological approach to evaluate the mechanisms and potential targets of the active ingredients of Epimedium for alleviating mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and treating Alzheimer's disease (AD).

METHODS

The active ingredients of Epimedium were acquired from the Traditional Chinese Medicine System Pharmacology database, and potential targets were predicted using the TCMSP target module, SwissTargetPrediction, and PharmMapper database. Target proteins correlating with MCI and AD were downloaded from the GeneCards, DisGeNet, and OMIM databases. The common targets of Epimedium, MCI, and AD were identified using the Jvenn online tool, and a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed using the String database and Cytoscape. Finally, Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis of the common targets was performed using DAVID, and molecular docking between active ingredients and target genes was modeled using AutoDock Vina.

RESULTS

A total of 20 active ingredients were analyzed, and 337 compound-related targets were identified for Epimedium. Out of 236 proteins associated with MCI and AD, 54 overlapped with the targets of Epimedium. The top 30 interacting proteins in this set were ranked by topological analysis. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis suggested that the common targets participated in diverse biological processes and pathways, including cell proliferation and apoptosis, inflammatory response, signal transduction, and protein phosphorylation through cancer pathway, MAPK signaling pathway, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, HIF-1 signaling pathway, sphingolipid signaling pathway, FoxO signaling pathway, and TNF signaling pathway. Molecular docking analysis suggested that the 20 active ingredients could bind to the top 5 protein targets.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study provides theoretical evidence for in-depth analysis of the mechanisms and molecular targets by which Epimedium protects against MCI, AD, and other neurodegenerative diseases and lays the foundation for pragmatic clinical applications and potential new drug development.

Expanding the Limits of Photodynamic Therapy: The Design of Organelles and Hypoxia-Targeting Nanomaterials for Enhanced Photokilling of Cancer

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a minimally invasive clinical protocol that combines a nontoxic photosensitizer (PS), appropriate visible light, and molecular oxygen for cancer treatment. This triad generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) in situ, leading to different cell death pathways and limiting the arrival of nutrients by irreversible destruction of the tumor vascular system. Despite the number of formulations and applications available, the advancement of therapy is hindered by some characteristics such as the hypoxic condition of solid tumors and the limited energy density (light fluence) that reaches the target. As a result, the use of PDT as a definitive monotherapy for cancer is generally restricted to pretumor lesions or neoplastic tissue of approximately 1 cm in size. To expand this limitation, researchers have synthesized functional nanoparticles (NPs) capable of carrying classical photosensitizers with self-supplying oxygen as well as targeting specific organelles such as mitochondria and lysosomes. This has improved outcomes in vitro and in vivo. This review highlights the basis of PDT, many of the most commonly used strategies of functionalization of smart NPs, and their potential to break the current limits of the classical protocol of PDT against cancer. The application and future perspectives of the multifunctional nanoparticles in PDT are also discussed in some detail.

Insulin-like growth factor-1 improves postoperative cognitive dysfunction following splenectomy in aged rats

Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a serious complication following anesthesia and operations in aged patients undergoing surgical intervention. It is characterized by temporary or permanent cognitive decline, memory impairment and deterioration in language comprehension and social adaption ability. Therefore, the development of POCD prevention and treatment tools has become an area of interest. The current study assessed the therapeutic effects of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) on POCD in aged rats and explored the underlying mechanisms. Model rats underwent splenectomy under 1.5-2% isoflurane and mechanical ventilation. IGF-1 (50 µg/kg) was diluted in normal saline and administered by abdominal hypodermic injection daily from the operation to day 7 post-operation. Following splenectomy, the animals showed marked cognitive impairment as determined by the Morris water maze test. Hippocampal protein levels of amyloid precursor protein (APP), β-site APP-cleaving enzyme-1 (BACE-1), amyloid-β (Aβ), capase3, Bax and Bcl-2 were assessed by immunoblotting. Neuronal apoptosis in the hippocampus was analyzed using a TUNEL assay. The results demonstrated that the levels of APP, BACE-1, Aβ, caspase3 and Bax were increased following splenectomy, while the levels of Bcl2 were reduced at days 1, 3 and 7 post-operation in aged rats. However, IGF-1 downregulated APP, BACE-1, Aβ, capase3 and Bax, and upregulated Bcl2 at these time points following splenectomy. TUNEL staining revealed that administration of IGF-1 significantly reduced neuronal apoptosis in the hippocampal CA1 region following splenectomy. These results indicated that IGF-1 decreased Aβ-protein production and inhibited neuronal apoptosis in the hippocampus following splenectomy, subsequently alleviating POCD.

The role of the DFF40/CAD endonuclease in genomic stability

Maintenance of genomic stability in cells is primordial for cellular integrity and protection against tumor progression. Many factors such as ultraviolet light, oxidative stress, exposure to chemical reagents, particularly mutagens and radiation, can alter the integrity of the genome. Thus, human cells are equipped with many mechanisms that prevent these irreversible lesions in the genome, as DNA repair pathways, cell cycle checkpoints, and telomeric function. These mechanisms activate cellular apoptosis to maintain DNA stability. Emerging studies have proposed a new protein in the maintenance of genomic stability: the DNA fragmentation factor (DFF). The DFF40 is an endonuclease responsible of the oligonucleosomal fragmentation of the DNA during apoptosis. The lack of DFF in renal carcinoma cells induces apoptosis without oligonucleosomal fragmentation, which poses a threat to genetic information transfer between cancerous and healthy cells. In this review, we expose the link between the DFF and genomic instability as the source of disease development.

Effect of different doses of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) on cardiac parameters in male Wistar rats

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of different doses of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic herbicide in rat hearts. Exposure was through rat food that was nebulized with the herbicide. Thirty adult male Wistar rats (200-300 g) were used. The diet was exposed to 2,4-D in two different doses (CG: control group 10 ml distilled water; LCG: low concentration group 3.71 × 10^-3 g.ia/ha diluted in 10 ml saline at 0.9% and HCG: High concentration group 9.28 × 10^-3 g.ia/ha diluted in 10 ml 0.9% saline). After 6 months of exposure, blood samples were collected for CKMB evaluation, and left ventricular fragments were analyzed by histological evaluation, fibrosis measurements, fractal dimension and immunohistochemistry (BAX, Bcl2, TNF-α and NF-kB). There were no significant changes in CK-MB concentration, histological parameters, fibrosis measurements and fractal dimension. Long-term oral consumption of food nebulized by the herbicide 2,4-D promoted an increase in BAX, Bcl-2/BAX, and cytoplasmic NF-kB in the nuclear area of the group that received the highest dose of the herbicide. This suggests that the herbicide induces cardiotoxicity.

The efficacy of the anticancer 3-bromopyruvate is potentiated by antimycin and menadione by unbalancing mitochondrial ROS production and disposal in U118 glioblastoma cells

Metabolic reprogramming of tumour cells sustains cancer progression. Similar to other cancer cells, glioblastoma cells exhibit an increased glycolytic flow, which encourages the use of antiglycolytics as an effective complementary therapy. We used the antiglycolytic 3-bromopyruvate (3BP) as a metabolic modifier to treat U118 glioblastoma cells and investigated the toxic effects and the conditions to increase drug effectiveness at the lowest concentration. Cellular vitality was not affected by 3BP concentrations lower than 40 μM, although p-Akt dephosphorylation, p53 degradation, and ATP reduction occurred already at 30 μM 3BP. ROS generated in mitochondria were enhanced at 30 μM 3BP, possibly by unbalancing their generation and their disposal because of glutathione peroxidase inhibition. ROS triggered JNK and ERK phosphorylation, and cyt c release outside mitochondria, not accompanied by caspases-9 and -3 activation, probably due to 3BP-dependent alkylation of cysteine residues at caspase-9 catalytic site. To explore the possibility of sensitizing cells to 3BP treatment, we exploited 3BP effects on mitochondria by using 30 μM 3BP in association with antimycin A or menadione concentrations that in themselves exhibit poor toxicity. 3BP effect on cyt c release and cell vitality loss was potentiated due the greater oxidative stress induced by antimycin or menadione association with 3BP, supporting a preeminent role of mitochondrial ROS in 3BP toxicity. Indeed, the scavenger of mitochondrial superoxide MitoTEMPO counteracted 3BP-induced cyt c release and weakened the potentiating effect of 3BP/antimycin association. In conclusion, the biochemical mechanisms leading U118 glioblastoma cells to viability loss following 3BP treatment rely on mitochondrial ROS-dependent pathways. Their potentiation at low 3BP concentrations is consistent with the goal to minimize the toxic effect of the drug towards non-cancer cells.

Effect of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate on Nrf2-regulated glutathione homeostasis in mouse kidney

Environmental toxicants such as phthalate have been involved in multiple health disorders including renal diseases. Oxidative damage is implicated in many alterations caused by phthalate especially the di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), which is the most useful phthalate. However, information regarding its mechanism of renal damage is lacking. The transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) regulates gene expression implicated in free radical scavenging and cytoprotection including the antioxidant glutathione (GSH) pathway. The aim of this study was to assess whether DEHP affects the Nrf2 pathway and the GSH concentration. Mice were divided into four groups: a control group and three groups treated with DEHP at different concentrations (5, 50, and 200 mg/kg body weight) for 30 days. Our results showed that DEHP altered the normal levels of serum biochemical parameters creatinine (CREA), urea, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). This phthalate caused oxidative damage through the induction of lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation as marked by increase of protein carbonyl (PC) and loss of protein-bound sulfhydryls (PSH). Simultaneously, DEHP treatment decreased the protein level of Nrf-2, HO-1, and GCLC (responsible of GSH synthesis) and decreased the GSH level. Inhibition of the Nrf2 pathway is related to the activation of the mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis. This apoptotic process is evidenced by an upregulation of p53 and Bax protein levels in addition to a downregulation of Bcl-2. Collectively, our data demonstrated that depletion of Nrf2 and GSH was associated with the elevation of oxidative stress and the activation of intrinsic apoptosis in mouse kidney treated with DEHP.