Small molecule inhibitors targeting activator protein 1 (AP-1)

Postoperative Innate Immune Dysregulation, Proteomic, and Monocyte Epigenomic Changes After Colorectal Surgery: A Substudy of a Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Colorectal surgery is associated with moderate-to-severe postoperative complications in over 25% of patients, predominantly infections. Monocyte epigenetic alterations leading to immune tolerance could explain postoperative increased susceptibility to infections. This research explores whether changes in monocyte DNA accessibility contribute to postoperative innate immune dysregulation.

METHODS

Damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) and ex vivo cytokine production capacity were measured in a randomized controlled trial (n = 100) in colorectal surgery patients, with additional exploratory subgroup proteomic (proximity extension assay; Olink) and epigenomic analyses (Assay for Transposase-Accessible Chromatin [ATAC sequencing]). Monocytes of healthy volunteers were used to study the effect of high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) and heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) on cytokine production capacity in vitro.

RESULTS

Plasma DAMPs were increased after surgery. HMGB1 showed a mean 235% increase from before- (preop) to the end of surgery (95% confidence interval [CI] [166 - 305], P < .0001) and 90% increase (95% CI [63-118], P = .0004) preop to postoperative day 1 (POD1). HSP70 increased by a mean 12% from preop to the end of surgery (95% CI [3-21], not significant) and 30% to POD1 (95% CI [18-41], P < .0001). Nuclear deoxyribonucleic acid (nDNA) increases by 66% (95% CI [40-92], P < .0001) at the end of surgery and 94% on POD1 (95% CI [60-127], P < .0001). Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) increases by 370% at the end of surgery (95% CI [225-515], P < .0001) and by 503% on POD1 (95% CI [332-673], P < .0001). In vitro incubation of monocytes with HSP70 decreased cytokine production capacity of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) by 46% (95% CI [29-64], P < .0001), IL-6 by 22% (95% CI [12-32], P = .0004) and IL-10 by 19% (95% CI [12-26], P = .0015). In vitro incubation with HMGB1 decreased cytokine production capacity of TNF by 34% (95% CI [3-65], P = .0003), interleukin 1β (IL-1β) by 24% (95% CI [16-32], P < .0001), and IL-10 by 40% (95% CI [21-58], P = .0009). Analysis of the inflammatory proteome alongside epigenetic shifts in monocytes indicated significant changes in gene accessibility, particularly in inflammatory markers such as CXCL8 (IL-8), IL-6, and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ). A significant enrichment of interferon regulatory factors (IRFs) was found in loci exhibiting decreased accessibility, whereas enrichment of activating protein-1 (AP-1) family motifs was found in loci with increased accessibility.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings illuminate the complex epigenetic modulation influencing monocytes' response to surgical stress, shedding light on potential biomarkers for immune dysregulation. Our results advocate for further research into the role of anesthesia in these molecular pathways and the development of personalized interventions to mitigate immune dysfunction after surgery.

Morphogenesis and regeneration share a conserved core transition cell state program that controls lung epithelial cell fate

Transitional cell states are at the crossroads of crucial developmental and regenerative events, yet little is known about how these states emerge and influence outcomes. The alveolar and airway epithelia arise from distal lung multipotent progenitors, which undergo cell fate transitions to form these distinct compartments. The identification and impact of cell states in the developing lung are poorly understood. Here, we identified a population of Icam1/Nkx2-1 epithelial progenitors harboring a transitional state program remarkably conserved in humans and mice during lung morphogenesis and regeneration. Lineage-tracing and functional analyses reveal their role as progenitors to both airways and alveolar cells and the requirement of this transitional program to make distal lung progenitors competent to undergo airway cell fate specification. The identification of a common progenitor cell state in vastly distinct processes suggests a unified program reiteratively regulating outcomes in development and regeneration.

A-to-G/C/T and C-to-T/G/A dual-function base editor for creating multi-nucleotide variants

Multi-nucleotide variants (MNVs) are critical genetic variants associated with various genetic diseases. However, tools for precisely installing MNVs are limited. In this study, we present the development of a dual-base editor, BDBE, by integrating TadA-dual and engineered human N-methylpurine DNA glycosylase (eMPG) into nCas9 (D10A). Our results demonstrate that BDBE effectively converts A-to-G/C/T (referred to as A-to-B) and C-to-T/G/A (referred to as C-to-D) simultaneously, yielding nine types of dinucleotides from adjacent CA nucleotides while maintaining minimal off-target effects. Notably, BDBE4 exhibits exceptional performance across multiple human cell lines and successfully simulated all nine dinucleotide MNVs from the gnomAD database. These findings indicate that BDBE significantly expands the product range of base editors and offers a valuable resource for advancing MNV research.

Spleen tyrosine kinase inhibitors disrupt human neutrophil swarming and antifungal functions

Neutrophils communicate with one another and amplify their destructive power through swarming, a collective process that synchronizes the activities of multiple neutrophils against one target. The sequence of activities contributing to swarming against clusters of fungi has been recently uncovered. However, the molecular signals controlling the neutrophils' activities during the swarming process are just emerging. Here, we report that spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK) inhibitors severely impair neutrophil swarming responses, resulting in the complete loss of fungal restriction. These findings are enabled by a microscale platform to probe the biology of human neutrophils swarming against uniformly sized clusters of growing Candida albicans, a representative opportunistic fungal pathogen. We take advantage of the ability to monitor large arrays of swarms and quantify the effect of multiple chemical inhibitors on different phases of human neutrophil swarming. We show that inhibitors that interfere with PI3Ky signaling disrupt the regulation of the initiation of swarming, while the activation of JNK signaling is essential for the activation of biochemical antifungal functions. Furthermore, we reveal that granulocyte colony-stimulating factors (GCSF and GM-CSF) can partially rescue the antifungal functions of neutrophils exposed to SYK inhibitors. These findings advance our understanding of neutrophil swarming biology in humans and lay the foundation for novel therapeutics that may restore neutrophil function during immunosuppression.

IMPORTANCE

Neutrophils can amplify their destructive power through swarming, a crucial process against large targets that individual neutrophils cannot destroy. However, the molecular mechanisms controlling this process are just emerging. Here, we leveraged microscale tools to probe the biology of swarming against fungi. We used multiple chemical inhibitors and mapped SYK, PI3Ky, and JNK signaling roles during human neutrophil swarming against fungal clusters of Candida albicans. We also found that treating human neutrophils with GCSF and GM-CSF rescues some neutrophil antifungal function during SYK inhibition. These findings advance our understanding of swarming biology in humans while laying the foundation for developing therapeutics that enhance neutrophil function during immunosuppression.

Regulatory Effects of Copper on Ghrelin Secretion in Rat Fundic Glands

Copper (Cu) is an effective additive in feed for promoting growth. Growth dan axis comprising growth hormone (GH), somatostatin (SS) and GH-releasing hormone (GHRH), with ghrelin regulating their release. The growth-promoting effects of Cu are closely related to ghrelin, but the specific mechanism behind the relationship remains unknown. We investigated the adjustment of ghrelin synthesis and secretion by Cu. Sprague-Dawley rats were fed basal diets with an addition of 0, 120 or 240 mg/kg Cu sulfate for 28 day to establish a growth-promoting model. Signalling molecules relevant to ghrelin synthesis and secretion were detected and mechanistically explored using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis. The 120 mg/kg supplement improved growth performance; significantly increased the serum levels of ghrelin, ghrelin O-acyltransferase (GOAT), acylated ghrelin (AG), GH, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) and decreased those of SS; significantly increased the mRNA and protein expression of ghrelin, GOAT, ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1α), and activator protein 1 (AP-1); increased the phosphorylation ratio of JNK and p38 MAPK; and inhibited the mRNA and protein expression of SS and SS receptor subtype 2 (SSTR2) in gastric fundic gland tissues. Thus, Cu may affect gastric ghrelin synthesis at the transcriptional level by activating the JNK/p38 MAPK pathway through increased ROS levels and regulating the activation of the downstream redox-sensitive transcription factor AP-1. SS plays a crucial determinant role in ghrelin regulation via intragastric Cu. Cu promotes GOAT activity and ghrelin secretion by inhibiting SS secretion, affecting AG levels, and promoting ghrelin acylation through ghrelin/GOAT/GHS-R1α system, modulating ghrelin secretion.

New opportunities to overcome T cell dysfunction: the role of transcription factors and how to target them

Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapies, which block inhibitory receptors on T cells, can be efficacious in reinvigorating dysfunctional T cell responses. However, most cancers do not respond to these therapies and even in those that respond, tumors can acquire resistance. New strategies are needed to rescue and recruit T cell responses across patient populations and disease states. In this review, we define mechanisms of T cell dysfunction, focusing on key transcription factor (TF) networks. We discuss the complex and sometimes contradictory roles of core TFs in both T cell function and dysfunction. Finally, we review strategies to target TFs using small molecule modulators, which represent a challenging but highly promising opportunity to tune the T cell response toward sustained immunity.

Geraniin from the methanol extract of Pilea mongolica suppresses LPS-induced inflammatory responses by inhibiting IRAK4/MAPKs/NF-κB/AP-1 pathway in HaCaT cells

The skin acts as a vital barrier, shielding the body from external threats that can trigger dryness, itching, and inflammation. Pilea mongolica, a traditional Chinese medicinal herb, holds promise for various ailments, yet its anti-inflammatory properties remain understudied. This study aimed to explore the potential anti-inflammatory effects of the methanol extract of P. mongolica (MEPM) and its underlying molecular mechanisms and active compounds in LPS-stimulated human keratinocytes. MEPM treatment, at concentrations without cytotoxicity, significantly decreased NO productions and the iNOS, IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α levels in LPS-induced HaCaT cells. Moreover, MEPM suppressed IRAK4 expression and phosphorylation of JNK, ERK, p38, p65, and c-Jun, suggesting that the anti-inflammatory effects of MEPM result from the inhibition of IRAK4/MAPK/NF-κB/AP-1 signaling pathway. Through LC/MS/MS analysis, 30 compounds and 24 compounds were estimated in negative and positive modes, respectively, including various anti-inflammatory compounds, such as corilagin and geraniin. Through HPLC analysis, geraniin was found to be present in MEPM at a concentration of 18.87 mg/g. Similar to MEPM, geraniin reduced iNOS mRNA expression and inhibited NO synthesis. It also decreased mRNA and protein levels of inflammatory cytokines, including IL-6 and TNF-α, and inhibited IRAK4 expression and the phosphorylation of MAPKs, NF-κB, and AP-1 pathways. Therefore, it can be inferred that the anti-inflammatory effects of MEPM are attributable to geraniin. Thus, MEPM and its active compound geraniin are potential candidates for use in natural functional cosmetics.

The aryl hydrocarbon receptor and FOS mediate cytotoxicity induced by Acinetobacter baumannii

Acinetobacter baumannii is a pathogenic and multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacterium that causes severe nosocomial infections. To better understand the mechanism of pathogenesis, we compare the proteomes of uninfected and infected human cells, revealing that transcription factor FOS is the host protein most strongly induced by A. baumannii infection. Pharmacological inhibition of FOS reduces the cytotoxicity of A. baumannii in cell-based models, and similar results are also observed in a mouse infection model. A. baumannii outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) are shown to activate the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) of host cells by inducing the host enzyme tryptophan-2,3-dioxygenase (TDO), producing the ligand kynurenine, which binds AHR. Following ligand binding, AHR is a direct transcriptional activator of the FOS gene. We propose that A. baumannii infection impacts the host tryptophan metabolism and promotes AHR- and FOS-mediated cytotoxicity of infected cells.

Analysis of action of 1,4-naphthoquinone scaffold-derived compounds against acute myeloid leukemia based on network pharmacology, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation

1,4-Naphthoquinone scaffold-derived compounds has shown considerable pharmacological properties against cancer, including acute myeloid leukemia (AML) However, its impact and mechanisms in AML are uncertain. In this study, the mechanisms of 1,4-naphthoquinone scaffold-derived compounds against AML were investigated via network pharmacology, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation. ASINEX database was used to collect the 1,4-naphthoquinone scaffold-derived compounds, and compounds were extracted from the software to evaluate their drug similarity and toxicity. The potential targets of compounds were retrieved from the SwissTargetPrediction Database and the Similarity Ensemble Approach Database, while the potential targets of AML were obtained from the GeneCards databases and Gene Expression Omnibus. The STRING database was used to construct a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network, topologically and Cyto Hubb plugin of Cytoscape screen the central targets. After selecting the potential key targets, the gene ontology (GO) function annotation and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis were performed for the intersection targets, and a network map of "compounds-potential targets-pathway-disease" were constructed. Molecular docking of the compounds with the core target was performed, and core target with the strongest binding force and 1,4-naphthoquinone scaffold-derived compounds was selected for further molecular dynamics simulation and further molecular mechanics/Poisson-Boltzmann surface area (MM/PBSA) approach verification. In addition, the Bloodspot database was applied to perform the overall survival of core targets. A total of 19 1,4-naphthoquinone scaffold-derived compounds were chosen out, and then 836 targets of compounds, 96 intersection targets of AML were screened. Core targets include STAT3, TLR4, HSP90AA1, JUN, MMP9, PTPRC, JAK2, PTGS2, KIT and CSF1R. GO functional enrichment analysis revealed that 90 biological processes, 10 cell components and 12 molecular functions were enriched while KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed 34 enriched signaling pathways. Analysis of KEGG enrichment hinted that these 10 core genes were located in the pathways in cancer, suggesting that 1,4-naphthoquinone scaffold-derived compounds had potential activity against AML. Molecular docking analysis revealed that the binding energies between 1,4-naphthoquinone scaffold-derived compounds and the core proteins were all higher than - 6 kcal/mol, indicating that the 10 core targets all had strong binding ability with compounds. Moreover, a good binding capacity was inferred from molecular dynamics simulations between compound 7 and MMP9. The total binding free energy calculated using the MM/GBSA approach revealed values of - 6356.865 kcal/mol for the MMP9-7 complex. In addition, Bloodspot database results exhibited that HSP90AA1, MMP9 and PTPRC were associated with overall survival. The findings provide foundations for future studies into the interaction underlying the anti-AML potential of compounds with 1,4-naphthoquinone-based scaffold structures. Compounds with 1,4-naphthoquinone-based scaffold structures exhibits considerable potential in mitigating and treating AML through multiple targets and pathways.

The Role of Activator Protein-1 Complex in Diabetes-Associated Atherosclerosis: Insights From Single-Cell RNA Sequencing

Despite advances in treatment, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in patients with diabetes. Even when risk factors are mitigated, the disease progresses, and thus, newer targets need to be identified that directly inhibit the underlying pathobiology of atherosclerosis in diabetes. A single-cell sequencing approach was used to distinguish the proatherogenic transcriptional profile in aortic cells in diabetes using a streptozotocin-induced diabetic Apoe-/- mouse model. Human carotid endarterectomy specimens from individuals with and without diabetes were also evaluated via immunohistochemical analysis. Further mechanistic studies were performed in human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs) and human THP-1-derived macrophages. We then performed a preclinical study using an activator protein-1 (AP-1) inhibitor in a diabetic Apoe-/- mouse model. Single-cell RNA sequencing analysis identified the AP-1 complex as a novel target in diabetes-associated atherosclerosis. AP-1 levels were elevated in carotid endarterectomy specimens from individuals with diabetes compared with those without diabetes. AP-1 was validated as a mechanosensitive transcription factor via immunofluorescence staining for regional heterogeneity of endothelial cells of the aortic region exposed to turbulent blood flow and by performing microfluidics experiments in HAECs. AP-1 inhibition with T-5224 blunted endothelial cell activation as assessed by a monocyte adhesion assay and expression of genes relevant to endothelial function. Furthermore, AP-1 inhibition attenuated foam cell formation. Critically, treatment with T-5224 attenuated atherosclerosis development in diabetic Apoe-/- mice. This study has identified the AP-1 complex as a novel target, the inhibition of which treats the underlying pathobiology of atherosclerosis in diabetes.

ARTICLE HIGHLIGHTS

Inhibitory effects of Gracilaria edulis and Gracilaria salicornia against the MGMT and VEGFA biomarkers involved in the onset and advancement of glioblastoma using in silico and in vitro approaches

Glioblastoma (GBM), an aggressive primary brain tumor originating from glial cells, poses significant treatment challenges due to its rapid growth and invasiveness. The exact mechanisms of GBM's brain damage remain unclear. This study examines primary molecular markers commonly assessed in GBM patients, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), platelet-derived growth factor receptor A (PDGFRA), O6-methylguanine DNA methyltransferase (MGMT), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) using computational approaches. The study revealed significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) in PDGFRA, EGFR, and VEGFA expression rates, which are particularly interesting. Additionally, MGMT and VEGFA showed higher hazard ratios. Expression levels of MGMT and VEGFA were visualized in immune and malignant cells using single-cell RNA datasets GSE103224 and GSE148842. From a total of 48 compounds in Gracilaria edulis and 86 in Gracilaria salicornia, we identified 15 compounds capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier. Notably, 2-tridecanone (binding affinity [BA] = -4.2 kcal/mol; root mean square deviation [RMSD] = 1.479 Å) and decanoic acid, ethyl ester (BA = -4.2 kcal/mol; RMSD = 1.702 Å) from G. edulis interacted with MGMT via hydrogen bonds. The compound alpha-terpineol interacted with MGMT (BA = -5.7 kcal/mol; RMSD = 0.501 Å) and VEGFA (BA = -4.7 kcal/mol; RMSD = 2.483 Å). Ethanolic and methanolic extracts from G. edulis and G. salicornia demonstrated mild anti-cell proliferation properties in the GBM LN-229 cell line, suggesting potential therapeutic benefits. This study highlights the significance of molecular markers and natural compounds in understanding and potentially treating GBM.

Histology and transcriptomic analysis reveal the inflammation and affected pathways under 2-methylisoborneol (2-MIB) exposure on grass carp

2-Methylisoborneol (2-MIB) is a common and widely distributed off-flavor compound in water. However, the toxic mechanisms of 2-MIB on aquatic organisms remain largely unexplored. In this study, grass carp larvae were exposed to different concentrations (0, 5, and 20 μg L-1) of 2-MIB for 96 h. The accumulation of 2-MIB in the dorsal muscle was measured. Histological analysis, ultrastructure observations, and transcriptomic sequencing were conducted on the liver tissues. The results showed that 2-MIB accumulated significantly in the fish muscle, with the accumulation increasing as the exposure concentration increased through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) detection. Histological and ultrastructure observations indicated that 2-MIB caused concentration-dependent inflammatory infiltration and mitochondrial damage in the liver. Transcriptomic analysis revealed lipid metabolism disorders induced by exposure to 2-MIB in grass carp. Additionally, 5 μg L-1 2-MIB affected the neurodevelopment and cardiovascular system of grass carp larvae through extracellular matrix (ECM)-receptor interaction and focal adhesion pathway. Furthermore, several pathways related to the digestive system were significantly enriched, implying that 2-MIB may impact pancreatic secretion function, protein digestion and absorption processes. These findings provide new insights into the potential toxicological mechanisms of 2-MIB.

Exploring the globoid cell leukodystrophy protein network and therapeutic interventions

Globoid cell leukodystrophy is a severe rare disorder characterized by white matter degradation, resulting in a progressive loss of physical and mental abilities and has extremely limited therapeutic interventions. Therefore, this study aimed to delve into the Globoid cell leukodystrophy associated intricate network of differentially expressed genes (p < 0.05, |Fc|> 1) to identify potential druggable targets and possible therapeutic interventions using small molecules. The disease-associated neuronal protein circuit was constructed and analyzed, identifying 53 nodes (minimum edge cutoff 1), among which five (FOS, FOSB, GDNF, GFRA1, and JUN) were discerned as potential core protein nodes. Although our research enumerates the potential small molecules to target various protein nodes in the proposed disease network, we particularly underscore T-5224 to inhibit c-Jun activity as JUN was identified as one of the pivotal elements within the disease-associated neuronal protein circuit. The evaluation of T-5224 binding energy (- 11.0 kcal/mol) from docking study revealed that the compound to exhibit a notable affinity towards Jun/CRE complex. Moreover, the structural integrity of complex was affirmed through comprehensive molecular dynamics simulations, indicating a stable hydrophilic interaction between T-5224 and the Jun/CRE complex, thereby enhancing protein compactness and reducing solvent accessibility. This binding energy was further substantiated by free binding analysis, revealing a substantial thermodynamics complex state (- 448.00 ± 41.73 kJ/mol). Given that this investigation is confined to a computational framework, we additionally propose a hypothetical framework to ascertain the feasibility of inhibiting the Jun/CRE complex with T-5224 against Globoid cell leukodystrophy, employing a combination of in vitro and in vivo methodologies as a prospective avenue of this study.

Involvement of multiple epigenetic mechanisms by altered DNA methylation from the early stage of renal carcinogenesis before proliferative lesion formation upon repeated administration of ochratoxin A

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a rat renal carcinogen that induces karyomegaly and micronuclei in proximal tubular epithelial cells (PTECs). We previously performed comprehensive gene profiling of alterations in promoter-region methylation and gene expression in PTECs of rats treated with OTA for 13 weeks. The OTA-specific gene profile was obtained by excluding genes showing expression changes similar to those upon treatment with 3-chloro-1,2-propanediol, a renal carcinogen not inducing karyomegaly. In this study, we validated the candidate genes using methylated DNA enrichment PCR and real-time RT-PCR, and identified Gen1, Anxa3, Cdkn1a, and Osm as genes showing OTA-specific epigenetic changes. These genes and related molecules were subjected to gene expression and immunohistochemical analyses in the PTECs of rats treated with OTA, other renal carcinogens, or non-carcinogenic renal toxicants for 4 or 13 weeks. Cdkn1a upregulation and increase of p21WAF1/CIP1+ karyomegalic PTECs were observed with OTA, matching the findings associated with micronucleus-inducing carcinogens. This suggested that the increase of p21WAF1/CIP1+ karyomegalic PTECs is linked to micronucleus formation, which in turn accelerates chromosomal instability. The upregulation of Cdkn1a-related genes with OTA suggests the acquisition of a senescence-associated secretory phenotype, which promotes the establishment of a carcinogenic environment. Meanwhile, OTA specifically caused a decrease of GEN1+ PTECs reflecting Gen1 downregulation and an increase of ANXA3+ PTECs reflecting Anxa3 upregulation, as well as Osm upregulation. OTA may efficiently disrupt pathways for repairing the DNA double-strand breaks that it itself causes, via Gen1 downregulation, and enhance cell proliferation through the upregulation of Anxa3 and Osm. This may exacerbate the chromosomal instability from the early stage of OTA-induced renal carcinogenesis before proliferative lesions form. OTA may cause renal carcinogenesis involving multiple epigenetic mechanisms.

Kumujan B suppresses TNF-α-induced inflammatory response and alleviates experimental colitis in mice

Treatments of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are diverse, but their efficacy is limited, and it is therefore urgent to find better therapies. Controlling mucosal inflammation is a must in IBD drug treatment. The occurrence of anti-tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) monoclonal antibodies has provided a safer and more efficacious therapy. However, this kind of treatment still faces failure in the form of loss of response. β-Carboline alkaloids own an anti-inflammatory pharmacological activity. While Kumujan B contains β-carboline, its biological activity remains unknown. In this study, we attempted to determine the anti-inflammatory effects of Kumujan B using both the TNF-α- induced in vitro inflammation and DSS-induced in vivo murine IBD models. Our data show that Kumujan B attenuated the expression of interleukin 1β (IL-1β) and interleukin 6 (IL-6) induced by TNF-α in mouse peritoneal macrophages. Kumujan B suppressed c-Jun N-terminal protein kinases (JNK) signaling, especially c-Jun, for anti-inflammatory response. Furthermore, Kumujan B promoted K11-linked ubiquitination and degradation of c-Jun through the proteasome pathway. In an in vivo study, Kumujan B inhibited the expression of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α and improved the colon barrier function in dextran sulfate sodium salt (DSS)-induced experimental mice colitis. Kumujan B exhibited in vivo and in vitro anti-inflammatory effects, making it a potential therapeutic candidate for treating IBD.

Effect of sitagliptin therapy on IL-29 and its associated signaling molecules in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

OBJECTIVE

The potential immunoregulatory capacity of sitagliptin on interleukin-29 (IL-29) and genes involved in its intracellular pathway were explored in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

T2D patients treated with six months of sitagliptin (Sita+), patients not treated with sitagliptin (Sita-), and healthy controls (HCs) were included. IL-29 levels in the supernatant of stimulated mononuclear immune cells was determined with ELISA. The mRNA expression levels of IL-29, FOS, JUN, NF-AT2, NF-KB1, STAT1-2, IRF1, IRF3, IRF7, and IRF9 was assessed with real-time qPCR.

RESULTS

Increased protein and gene levels of IL-29 were observed in Sita- group compared to HCs (p < 0.001 and p = 0.026), while those levels were diminished in Sita+ group in comparison with Sita- group (p < 0.001 and p = 0.008). Expression of FOS, NF-AT2 and NF-KB1 in Sita- patients was higher than HCs (p = 0.018, p = 0.021, and p = 0.001). A significant decrease in expression of FOS, NF-AT2, and NF-KB1 was found in Sita+ group versus Sita- parients (p = 0.027, p = 0.003, and p = 0.002). In Sita- patients, IL-29 levels were correlated to glucose metabolism parameters including FPG and HbA1c (p < 0.05 for all).

CONCLUSION

Sitagliptin administration has a regulatory effect on the aggressive expression of IL-29 and its signaling molecules including FOS, NF-AT2 and NF-KB1 in T2D.

PAR2 activation on human tubular epithelial cells engages converging signaling pathways to induce an inflammatory and fibrotic milieu

Key features of chronic kidney disease (CKD) include tubulointerstitial inflammation and fibrosis. Protease activated receptor-2 (PAR2), a G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) expressed by the kidney proximal tubular cells, induces potent proinflammatory responses in these cells. The hypothesis tested here was that PAR2 signalling can contribute to both inflammation and fibrosis in the kidney by transactivating known disease associated pathways. Using a primary cell culture model of human kidney tubular epithelial cells (HTEC), PAR2 activation induced a concentration dependent, PAR2 antagonist sensitive, secretion of TNF, CSF2, MMP-9, PAI-1 and CTGF. Transcription factors activated by the PAR2 agonist 2F, including NFκB, AP1 and Smad2, were critical for production of these cytokines. A TGF-β receptor-1 (TGF-βRI) kinase inhibitor, SB431542, and an EGFR kinase inhibitor, AG1478, ameliorated 2F induced secretion of TNF, CSF2, MMP-9, and PAI-1. Whilst an EGFR blocking antibody, cetuximab, blocked PAR2 induced EGFR and ERK phosphorylation, a TGF-βRII blocking antibody failed to influence PAR2 induced secretion of PAI-1. Notably simultaneous activation of TGF-βRII (TGF-β1) and PAR2 (2F) synergistically enhanced secretion of TNF (2.2-fold), CSF2 (4.4-fold), MMP-9 (15-fold), and PAI-1 (2.5-fold). In summary PAR2 activates critical inflammatory and fibrotic signalling pathways in human kidney tubular epithelial cells. Biased antagonists of PAR2 should be explored as a potential therapy for CKD.

Identifying Key Regulatory Genes in Drug Resistance Acquisition: Modeling Pseudotime Trajectories of Breast Cancer Single-Cell Transcriptome

Single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) technology has provided significant insights into cancer drug resistance at the single-cell level. However, understanding dynamic cell transitions at the molecular systems level remains limited, requiring a systems biology approach. We present an approach that combines mathematical modeling with a pseudotime analysis using time-series scRNA-seq data obtained from the breast cancer cell line MCF-7 treated with tamoxifen. Our single-cell analysis identified five distinct subpopulations, including tamoxifen-sensitive and -resistant groups. Using a single-gene mathematical model, we discovered approximately 560-680 genes out of 6000 exhibiting multistable expression states in each subpopulation, including key estrogen-receptor-positive breast cancer cell survival genes, such as RPS6KB1. A bifurcation analysis elucidated their regulatory mechanisms, and we mapped these genes into a molecular network associated with cell survival and metastasis-related pathways. Our modeling approach comprehensively identifies key regulatory genes for drug resistance acquisition, enhancing our understanding of potential drug targets in breast cancer.

FOSL1's Oncogene Roles in Glioma/Glioma Stem Cells and Tumorigenesis: A Comprehensive Review

This review specifically examines the important function of the oncoprotein FOSL1 in the dimeric AP-1 transcription factor, which consists of FOS-related components. FOSL1 is identified as a crucial controller of invasion and metastatic dissemination, making it a potential target for therapeutic treatment in cancer patients. The review offers a thorough examination of the regulatory systems that govern the influence exerted on FOSL1. These include a range of changes that occur throughout the process of transcription and after the translation of proteins. We have discovered that several non-coding RNAs, such as microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), play a significant role in regulating FOSL1 expression by directly interacting with its mRNA transcripts. Moreover, an investigation into the functional aspects of FOSL1 reveals its involvement in apoptosis, proliferation, and migration. This work involves a comprehensive analysis of the complex signaling pathways that support these diverse activities. Furthermore, particular importance is given to the function of FOSL1 in coordinating the activation of several cytokines, such as TGF-beta, and the commencement of IL-6 and VEGF production in tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) that migrate into the tumor microenvironment. There is a specific emphasis on evaluating the predictive consequences linked to FOSL1. Insights are now emerging on the developing roles of FOSL1 in relation to the processes that drive resistance and reliance on specific treatment methods. Targeting FOSL1 has a strong inhibitory effect on the formation and spread of specific types of cancers. Despite extensive endeavors, no drugs targeting AP-1 or FOSL1 for cancer treatment have been approved for clinical use. Hence, it is imperative to implement innovative approaches and conduct additional verifications.

Adaptor protein HIP-55 promotes macrophage M1 polarization through promoting AP-1 complex activation

Overwhelming macrophage M1 polarization induced by malfunction of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) initiates inflammatory responses, which play a crucial role in various cardiovascular diseases. However, the underlying regulatory mechanism remains elusive. Here, we identified adaptor protein HIP-55 as a critical regulator of macrophage M1 polarization. The expression of HIP-55 was upregulated in M1 macrophage induced by Ang II. Overexpression of HIP-55 significantly promoted Ang II-induced macrophage M1 polarization, whereas genetic deletion of HIP-55 inhibited the Ang II-induced macrophage M1 polarization. Mechanistically, HIP-55 facilitated activator protein-1 (AP-1) complex activation induced by Ang II via promoting ERK1/2 and JNK phosphorylation. Moreover, blocking AP-1 complex activation can attenuate the function of HIP-55 in macrophage polarization. Collectively, our results reveal the role of HIP-55 in macrophage polarization and provide potential therapeutic insights for cardiovascular diseases associated with RAAS dysfunction.

Mining phase separation-related diagnostic biomarkers for endometriosis through WGCNA and multiple machine learning techniques: a retrospective and nomogram study

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to investigate the role of phase separation-related genes in the development of endometriosis (EMs) and to identify potential characteristic genes associated with the condition.

METHODS

We used GEO database data, including 74 non-endometriosis and 74 varying-degree EMs patients. Our approach involved identifying significant gene modules, exploring gene intersections, identifying core genes, and screening for potential EMs biomarkers using weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and various machine learning approaches. We also performed gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) to understand relevant pathways. This comprehensive approach helps investigate EMs genetics and potential biomarkers.

RESULTS

Nine genes were identified at the intersection, suggesting their involvement in EMs. GSEA linked DEGs to pathways like complement and coagulation cascades, DNA replication, chemokines, apical plasma membrane processes, and diseases such as Hepatitis B, Human T-cell leukemia virus 1 infection, and COVID-19. Five feature genes (FOS, CFD, CCNA1, CA4, CST1) were selected by machine learning for an effective EMs diagnostic nomogram. GSEA indicated their roles in mismatch repair, cell cycle regulation, complement and coagulation cascades, and IL-17 inflammation. Notable differences in immune cell proportions (CD4 T cells, CD8 T cells, DCs, macrophages) were observed between normal and disease groups, suggesting immune involvement.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests the potential involvement of phase separation-related genes in the pathogenesis of endometriosis (EMs) and identifies promising biomarkers for diagnosis. These findings have implications for further research and the development of new therapeutic strategies for EMs.

Initiation of a ZAKα-dependent ribotoxic stress response by the innate immunity endoribonuclease RNase L

RNase L is an endoribonuclease of higher vertebrates that functions in antiviral innate immunity. Interferons induce oligoadenylate synthetase enzymes that sense double-stranded RNA of viral origin leading to the synthesis of 2',5'-oligoadenylate (2-5A) activators of RNase L. However, it is unknown precisely how RNase L remodels the host cell transcriptome. To isolate effects of RNase L from other effects of double-stranded RNA or virus, 2-5A is directly introduced into cells. Here, we report that RNase L activation by 2-5A causes a ribotoxic stress response involving the MAP kinase kinase kinase (MAP3K) ZAKα, MAP2Ks, and the stress-activated protein kinases JNK and p38α. RNase L activation profoundly alters the transcriptome by widespread depletion of mRNAs associated with different cellular functions but also by JNK/p38α-stimulated induction of inflammatory genes. These results show that the 2-5A/RNase L system triggers a protein kinase cascade leading to proinflammatory signaling and apoptosis.

Transcription Factors in Prostate Cancer: Insights for Disease Development and Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approaches

Transcription factors (TFs) are proteins essential for the regulation of gene expression, and they regulate the genes involved in different cellular processes, such as proliferation, differentiation, survival, and apoptosis. Although their expression is essential in normal physiological conditions, abnormal regulation of TFs plays critical role in several diseases, including cancer. In prostate cancer, the most common malignancy in men, TFs are known to play crucial roles in the initiation, progression, and resistance to therapy of the disease. Understanding the interplay between these TFs and their downstream targets provides insights into the molecular basis of prostate cancer pathogenesis. In this review, we discuss the involvement of key TFs, including the E26 Transformation-Specific (ETS) Family (ERG and SPDEF), NF-κB, Activating Protein-1 (AP-1), MYC, and androgen receptor (AR), in prostate cancer while focusing on the molecular mechanisms involved in prostate cancer development. We also discuss emerging diagnostic strategies, early detection, and risk stratification using TFs. Furthermore, we explore the development of therapeutic interventions targeting TF pathways, including the use of small molecule inhibitors, gene therapies, and immunotherapies, aimed at disrupting oncogenic TF signaling and improving patient outcomes. Understanding the complex regulation of TFs in prostate cancer provides valuable insights into disease biology, which ultimately may lead to advancing precision approaches for patients.

Immune features revealed by single-cell RNA and single-cell TCR/BCR sequencing in patients with rheumatoid arthritis receiving COVID-19 booster vaccination

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by SARS-CoV-2, have profoundly affected human health. Booster COVID-19 vaccines have demonstrated significant efficacy in reducing infection and severe cases. However, the effects of booster COVID-19 vaccines on key immune cell subsets and their responses in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are not well understood. By using single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) combined with scTCR/BCR-seq analysis, a total of 8 major and 27 minor cell clusters were identified from paired peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) which were collected 1 week before and 4 weeks after booster vaccination in stable RA patients. Booster vaccination only had limited impact on the composition and proportions of PBMCs cell clusters. CD8+ cytotoxic T cells (CD8+T_CTL) showed a trend toward an increase after vaccination, while naive B cells and conventional dendritic cells (cDCs) showed a trend toward a decrease. Transcriptomic changes were observed after booster vaccination, primarily involving T/B cell receptor signaling pathways, phagosome, antigen processing and presenting, and viral myocarditis pathways. Interferon (IFN) and pro-inflammatory response gene sets were slightly upregulated across most major cell subpopulations in COVID-19 booster-vaccinated RA individuals. Plasma neutralizing antibody titers significantly increased after booster COVID-19 vaccination (p = 0.037). Single-cell TCR/BCR analysis revealed increased B cell clone expansion and repertoire diversity postvaccination, with no consistent alterations in T cells. Several clonotypes of BCRs and TCRs were identified to be significantly over-represented after vaccination, such as IGHV3-15 and TRBV28. Our study provided a comprehensive single-cell atlas of the peripheral immune response and TCR/BCR immune repertoire profiles to inactivated SARS-CoV-2 booster vaccination in RA patients, which helps us to understand vaccine-induced immune responses better.

Topical application of activator protein-1 inhibitor T-5224 suppresses inflammation and improves skin barrier function in a murine atopic dermatitis-like dermatitis

BACKGROUND

Selective activator protein (AP)-1 inhibitors are potentially promising therapeutic agents for atopic dermatitis (AD) because AP-1 is an important regulator of skin inflammation. However, few studies have investigated the effect of topical application of AP-1 inhibitors in treating inflammatory skin disorders.

METHODS

Immunohistochemistry was conducted to detect phosphorylated AP-1/c-Jun expression of skin lesions in AD patients. In the in vivo study, 1 % T-5224 ointment was topically applied for 8 days to the ears of 2,4 dinitrofluorobenzene challenged AD-like dermatitis model mice. Baricitinib, a conventional therapeutic agent Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor, was also topically applied. In the in vitro study, human epidermal keratinocytes were treated with T-5224 and stimulated with AD-related cytokines.

RESULTS

AP-1/c-Jun was phosphorylated at skin lesions in AD patients. In vivo, topical T-5224 application inhibited ear swelling (P < 0.001), restored filaggrin (Flg) expression (P < 0.01), and generally suppressed immune-related pathways. T-5224 significantly suppressed Il17a and l17f expression, whereas baricitinib did not. Baricitinib suppressed Il4, Il19, Il33 and Ifnb expression, whereas T-5224 did not. Il1a, Il1b, Il23a, Ifna, S100a8, and S100a9 expression was cooperatively downregulated following the combined use of T-5224 and baricitinib. In vitro, T-5224 restored the expression of FLG and loricrin (LOR) (P < 0.05) and suppressed IL33 expression (P < 0.05) without affecting cell viability and cytotoxicity.

CONCLUSIONS

Topical T-5224 ameliorates clinical manifestations of AD-like dermatitis in mice. The effect of this inhibitor is amplified via combined use with JAK inhibitors.

Cotransplantation of NSCs and ethyl stearate promotes synaptic plasticity in PD rats by Drd1/ERK/AP-1 signaling pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Traditional Chinese medicine views kidney shortage as a significant contributor to the aetiology of Parkinson's disease (PD), a neurodegenerative condition that is closely linked to aging. In clinical, patients with Parkinson's disease are often treated with Testudinis Carapax et Plastrum (Plastrum Testudinis, PT), a traditional Chinese medication that tonifies the kidney. Previous research has demonstrated that ethyl stearate (PubChem CID: 8122), an active component of Plastrum Testudinis Extracted with ethyl acetate (PTE), may encourage neural stem cells (NSCs) development into dopaminergic (DAergic) neurons. However, the effectiveness and mechanism of cotransplantation of ethyl stearate and NSCs in treating PD model rats still require further investigation.

AIM OF THE STUDY

PD is a neurodegenerative condition marked by the loss and degradation of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra of the midbrain. Synaptic damage is also a critical pathology in PD. Because of their self-renewal, minimal immunogenicity, and capacity to differentiate into dopaminergic (DAergic) neurons, NSCs are a prospective treatment option for Parkinson's disease cell transplantation therapy. However, encouraging transplanted NSCs to differentiate into dopaminergic neurons and enhancing synaptic plasticity in vivo remains a significant challenge in improving the efficacy of NSCs transplantation for PD. This investigation seeks to examine the efficacy of cotransplantation of NSCs and ethyl stearate in PD model rats and its mechanism related to synaptic plasticity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

On 6-hydroxydopamine-induced PD model rats, we performed NSCs transplantation therapy and cotransplantation therapy involving ethyl stearate and NSCs. Rotating behavior induced by apomorphine (APO) and pole climbing tests were used to evaluate behavioral changes. Using a variety of methods, including Western blotting (WB), immunofluorescence analysis, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), we examined the function and potential molecular mechanisms of ethyl stearate in combined NSCs transplantation therapy.

RESULTS

In the rat PD model, cotransplantation of ethyl stearate with NSCs dramatically reduced motor dysfunction, restored TH protein levels, and boosted dopamine levels in the striatum, according to our findings. Furthermore, the expression levels of SYN1 and PSD95, markers of synaptic plasticity, and BDNF, closely related to synaptic plasticity, were significantly increased. Cotransplantation with ethyl stearate and NSCs also increased the expression levels of Dopamine Receptor D1 (Drd1), an important receptor in the dopamine neural circuit, accompanied by an increase in MMP9 levels, ERK1/2 phosphorylation levels, and c-fos protein levels.

CONCLUSIONS

According to the results of our investigation, cotransplantation of ethyl stearate and NSCs significantly improves the condition of PD model rats. We found that cotransplantation of ethyl stearate and NSCs may promote the expression of MMP9 by regulating the Drd1-ERK-AP-1 pathway, thus improving synaptic plasticity after NSCs transplantation. These findings provide new experimental support for the treatment of PD with the kidney tonifying Chinese medicine Plastrum Testudinis and suggest a potential therapeutic strategy for PD based on cotransplantation therapy.

Super-Enhancer Dysregulation in Rhabdoid Tumor Cells Is Regulated by the SWI/SNF ATPase BRG1

Mutations in the SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex occur in ~20% of cancers. In rhabdoid tumors defined by loss of the SWI/SNF subunit SMARCB1, dysregulation of enhancer-mediated gene expression is pivotal in driving oncogenesis. Enhancer dysregulation in this setting is tied to retention of the SWI/SNF ATPase BRG1-which becomes essential in the absence of SMARCB1-but precisely how BRG1 contributes to this process remains unknown. To characterize how BRG1 participates in chromatin remodeling and gene expression in SMARCB1-deficient cells, we performed a genome-wide characterization of the impact of BRG1 depletion in multiple rhabdoid tumor cell lines. We find that although BRG1-regulated open chromatin sites are distinct at the locus level, the biological characteristics of the loci are very similar, converging on a set of thematically related genes and pointing to the involvement of the AP-1 transcription factor. The open chromatin sites regulated by BRG1 colocalize with histone-marked enhancers and intriguingly include almost all super-enhancers, revealing that BRG1 plays a critical role in maintaining super-enhancer function in this setting. These studies can explain the essentiality of BRG1 to rhabdoid tumor cell identity and survival and implicate the involvement of AP-1 as a critical downstream effector of rhabdoid tumor cell transcriptional programs.

The siRNA-mediated knockdown of AP-1 restores the function of the pulmonary artery and the right ventricle by reducing perivascular and interstitial fibrosis and key molecular players in cardiopulmonary disease

BACKGROUND

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a complex multifactorial vascular pathology characterized by an increased pulmonary arterial pressure, vasoconstriction, remodelling of the pulmonary vasculature, thrombosis in situ and inflammation associated with right-side heart failure. Herein, we explored the potential beneficial effects of treatment with siRNA AP-1 on pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), right ventricular dysfunction along with perivascular and interstitial fibrosis in pulmonary artery-PA, right ventricle-RV and lung in an experimental animal model of monocrotaline (MCT)-induced PAH.

METHODS

Golden Syrian hamsters were divided into: (1) C group-healthy animals taken as control; (2) MCT group obtained by a single subcutaneous injection of 60 mg/kg MCT at the beginning of the experiment; (3) MCT-siRNA AP-1 group received a one-time subcutaneous dose of MCT and subcutaneous injections containing 100 nM siRNA AP-1, every two weeks. All animal groups received water and standard chow ad libitum for 12 weeks.

RESULTS

In comparison with the MCT group, siRNA AP-1 treatment had significant beneficial effects on investigated tissues contributing to: (1) a reduction in TGF-β1/ET-1/IL-1β/TNF-α plasma concentrations; (2) a reduced level of cytosolic ROS production in PA, RV and lung and notable improvements regarding the ultrastructure of these tissues; a decrease of inflammatory and fibrotic marker expressions in PA (COL1A/Fibronectin/Vimentin/α-SMA/CTGF/Calponin/MMP-9), RV and lung (COL1A/CTGF/Fibronectin/α-SMA/F-actin/OB-cadherin) and an increase of endothelial marker expressions (CD31/VE-cadherin) in PA; (4) structural and functional recoveries of the PA [reduced Vel, restored vascular reactivity (NA contraction, ACh relaxation)] and RV (enlarged internal cavity diameter in diastole, increased TAPSE and PRVOFs) associated with a decrease in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and heart rate; (5) a reduced protein expression profile of AP-1S3/ pFAK/FAK/pERK/ERK and a significant decrease in the expression levels of miRNA-145, miRNA-210, miRNA-21, and miRNA-214 along with an increase of miRNA-124 and miRNA-204.

CONCLUSIONS

The siRNA AP-1-based therapy led to an improvement of pulmonary arterial and right ventricular function accompanied by a regression of perivascular and interstitial fibrosis in PA, RV and lung and a down-regulation of key inflammatory and fibrotic markers in MCT-treated hamsters.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea-Associated Intermittent Hypoxia-Induced Immune Responses in Males, Pregnancies, and Offspring

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a respiratory sleep disorder associated with cardiovascular diseases, is more prevalent in men. However, OSA occurrence in pregnant women rises to a level comparable to men during late gestation, creating persistent effects on both maternal and offspring health. The exact mechanisms behind OSA-induced cardiovascular diseases remain unclear, but inflammation and oxidative stress play a key role. Animal models using intermittent hypoxia (IH), a hallmark of OSA, reveal several pro-inflammatory signaling pathways at play in males, such as TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB/MAPK, miRNA/NLRP3, and COX signaling, along with shifts in immune cell populations and function. Limited evidence suggests similarities in pregnancies and offspring. In addition, suppressing these inflammatory molecules ameliorates IH-induced inflammation and tissue injury, providing new potential targets to treat OSA-associated cardiovascular diseases. This review will focus on the inflammatory mechanisms linking IH to cardiovascular dysfunction in males, pregnancies, and their offspring. The goal is to inspire further investigations into the understudied populations of pregnant females and their offspring, which ultimately uncover underlying mechanisms and therapeutic interventions for OSA-associated diseases.

SARS-CoV-2 RNA stabilizes host mRNAs to elicit immunopathogenesis

SARS-CoV-2 RNA interacts with host factors to suppress interferon responses and simultaneously induces cytokine release to drive the development of severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). However, how SARS-CoV-2 hijacks host RNAs to elicit such imbalanced immune responses remains elusive. Here, we analyzed SARS-CoV-2 RNA in situ structures and interactions in infected cells and patient lung samples using RIC-seq. We discovered that SARS-CoV-2 RNA forms 2,095 potential duplexes with the 3' UTRs of 205 host mRNAs to increase their stability by recruiting RNA-binding protein YBX3 in A549 cells. Disrupting the SARS-CoV-2-to-host RNA duplex or knocking down YBX3 decreased host mRNA stability and reduced viral replication. Among SARS-CoV-2-stabilized host targets, NFKBIZ was crucial for promoting cytokine production and reducing interferon responses, probably contributing to cytokine storm induction. Our study uncovers the crucial roles of RNA-RNA interactions in the immunopathogenesis of RNA viruses such as SARS-CoV-2 and provides valuable host targets for drug development.

Macrophage-based therapeutic approaches for cardiovascular diseases

Despite the advances in treatment options, cardiovascular disease (CVDs) remains the leading cause of death over the world. Chronic inflammatory response and irreversible fibrosis are the main underlying pathophysiological causes of progression of CVDs. In recent decades, cardiac macrophages have been recognized as main regulatory players in the development of these complex pathophysiological conditions. Numerous approaches aimed at macrophages have been devised, leading to novel prospects for therapeutic interventions. Our review covers the advancements in macrophage-centric treatment plans for various pathologic conditions and examines the potential consequences and obstacles of employing macrophage-targeted techniques in cardiac diseases.

Transcription factors in the development and treatment of immune disorders

Immune function is highly controlled at the transcriptional level by the binding of transcription factors (TFs) to promoter and enhancer elements. Several TF families play major roles in immune gene expression, including NF-κB, STAT, IRF, AP-1, NRs, and NFAT, which trigger anti-pathogen responses, promote cell differentiation, and maintain immune system homeostasis. Aberrant expression, activation, or sequence of isoforms and variants of these TFs can result in autoimmune and inflammatory diseases as well as hematological and solid tumor cancers. For this reason, TFs have become attractive drug targets, even though most were previously deemed "undruggable" due to their lack of small molecule binding pockets and the presence of intrinsically disordered regions. However, several aspects of TF structure and function can be targeted for therapeutic intervention, such as ligand-binding domains, protein-protein interactions between TFs and with cofactors, TF-DNA binding, TF stability, upstream signaling pathways, and TF expression. In this review, we provide an overview of each of the important TF families, how they function in immunity, and some related diseases they are involved in. Additionally, we discuss the ways of targeting TFs with drugs along with recent research developments in these areas and their clinical applications, followed by the advantages and disadvantages of targeting TFs for the treatment of immune disorders.

Integration of ATAC-seq and RNA-seq identifies MX1-mediated AP-1 transcriptional regulation as a therapeutic target for Down syndrome

BACKGROUND

Growing evidence has suggested that Type I Interferon (I-IFN) plays a potential role in the pathogenesis of Down Syndrome (DS). This work investigates the underlying function of MX1, an effector gene of I-IFN, in DS-associated transcriptional regulation and phenotypic modulation.

METHODS

We performed assay for transposase-accessible chromatin with high-throughout sequencing (ATAC-seq) to explore the difference of chromatin accessibility between DS derived amniocytes (DSACs) and controls. We then combined the annotated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and enriched transcriptional factors (TFs) targeting the promoter region from ATAC-seq results with the DEGs in RNA-seq, to identify key genes and pathways involved in alterations of biological processes and pathways in DS.

RESULTS

Binding motif analysis showed a significant increase in chromatin accessibility of genes related to neural cell function, among others, in DSACs, which is primarily regulated by members of the activator protein-1 (AP-1) transcriptional factor family. Further studies indicated that MX Dynamin Like GTPase 1 (MX1), defined as one of the key effector genes of I-IFN, is a critical upstream regulator. Its overexpression induced expression of AP-1 TFs and mediated inflammatory response, thus leading to decreased cellular viability of DS cells. Moreover, treatment with specific AP-1 inhibitor T-5224 improved DS-associated phenotypes in DSACs.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that MX1-mediated AP-1 activation is partially responsible for cellular dysfunction of DS. T-5224 effectively ameliorated DS-associated phenotypes in DSACs, suggesting it as a potential treatment option for DS patients.

AP-1 signaling modulates cardiac fibroblast stress responses

Matrix remodeling outcomes largely dictate patient survival post myocardial infarction. Moreover, human-restricted noncoding regulatory elements have been shown to worsen fibrosis, but their mechanism of action remains elusive. Here, we demonstrate, using induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiac fibroblasts (iCFs), that inflammatory ligands abundant in the remodeling heart after infarction activate AP-1 transcription factor signaling pathways resulting in fibrotic responses. This observed signaling induces deposition of fibronectin matrix and is further capable of supporting immune cell adhesion; pathway inhibition blocks iCF matrix production and cell adhesion. Polymorphisms in the noncoding regulatory elements within the 9p21 locus (also referred to as ANRIL) redirect stress programs, and in iCFs, they transcriptionally silence the AP-1 inducible transcription factor GATA5. The presence of these polymorphisms modulate iCF matrix production and assembly and reduce cell-cell signaling. These data suggest that this signaling axis is a critical modulator of cardiac disease models and might be influenced by noncoding regulatory elements.

Novel Approaches to Possible Targeted Therapies and Prophylaxis of Uterine Fibroids

Uterine leiomyomas are the most common benign tumors in women of childbearing age. They may lead to problems of conception or complications during the gestational period. The methods of treatment include surgical (myomectomy and hysterectomy, embolization of arteries) and therapeutic treatment (ulipristal acetate, leuprolide acetate, cetrorelix, goserelin, mifepristone). Both approaches are efficient but incompatible with pregnancy planning. Therefore, there is a call for medical practice to develop therapeutical means of preventing leiomyoma onset in patients planning on becoming pregnant. Based on the analysis of GWAS data on the search for mononucleotide polymorphisms associated with the risk of leiomyoma, in meta-transcriptomic and meta-methylomic studies, target proteins have been proposed. Prospective therapeutic treatments of leiomyoma may be based on chemical compounds, humanized recombinant antibodies, vaccines based on markers of the uterine leiomyoma cells that are absent in the adult organism, or DNA and RNA preparations. Three different nosological forms of the disease associated with driver mutations in the MED12, HMGA2, and FH genes should be considered when developing or prescribing drugs. For example, synthetic inhibitors and vaccines based on matrix metalloproteinases MMP11 and MMP16 are expected to be effective only for the prevention of the occurrence of MED12-dependent nodules.

Initiation of a ZAKα-dependent Ribotoxic Stress Response by the Innate Immunity Endoribonuclease RNase L

RNase L is a regulated endoribonuclease in higher vertebrates that functions in antiviral innate immunity. Interferons induce OAS enzymes that sense double-stranded RNA of viral origin leading to synthesis of 2',5'-oligoadenylate (2-5A) activators of RNase L. However, it is unknown precisely how RNase L inhibits viral infections. To isolate effects of RNase L from other effects of double-stranded RNA or virus, 2-5A was directly introduced into cells. Here we report that RNase L activation by 2-5A causes a ribotoxic stress response that requires the ribosome-associated MAP3K, ZAKα. Subsequently, the stress-activated protein kinases (SAPK) JNK and p38α are phosphorylated. RNase L activation profoundly altered the transcriptome by widespread depletion of mRNAs associated with different cellular functions, but also by SAPK-dependent induction of inflammatory genes. Our findings show that 2-5A is a ribotoxic stressor that causes RNA damage through RNase L triggering a ZAKα kinase cascade leading to proinflammatory signaling and apoptosis.

Identification of genes showing altered DNA methylation and gene expression in the renal proximal tubular cells of rats treated with ochratoxin A for 13 weeks

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a mycotoxin that causes renal carcinogenicity following the induction of karyomegaly in proximal tubular cells after repeated administration to rats. Here, we performed gene profiling regarding altered DNA methylation and gene expression in the renal tubules focusing on the mechanism of OTA-induced carcinogenesis. For this purpose, OTA or 3-chloro-1,2-propanediol (3-MCPD), a renal carcinogen not inducing karyomegaly, was administered to rats for 13 weeks, and DNA methylation array and RNA sequencing analyses were performed on proximal tubular cells. Genes for which OTA altered the methylation status and gene expression level, after excluding genes showing similar expression changes by 3-MCPD, were subjected to confirmation analysis of the transcript level by real-time reverse-transcription PCR. Gene Ontology (GO)-based functional annotation analysis of validated genes revealed a cluster of hypermethylated and downregulated genes enriched under the GO term "mitochondrion," such as those associated with metabolic reprogramming in carcinogenic process (Clpx, Mrpl54, Mrps34, and Slc25a23). GO terms enriched for hypomethylated and upregulated genes included "response to arsenic-containing substance," represented by Cdkn1a involved in cell cycle arrest, and "positive regulation of IL-17 production," represented by Osm potentiating cell proliferation promotion. Other genes that did not cluster under any GO term included Lrrc14 involved in NF-κB-mediated inflammation, Gen1 linked to DNA repair, Has1 related to chromosomal aberration, and Anxa3 involved in tumor development and progression. In conclusion, a variety of genes engaged in carcinogenic processes were obtained by epigenetic gene profiling in rat renal tubular cells specific to OTA treatment for 13 weeks.

The novel small molecule TPN10518 alleviates EAE pathogenesis by inhibiting AP1 to depress Th1/Th17 cell differentiation

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is one of the most common autoimmune diseases of central nervous system (CNS) demyelination. Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is the most classic animal model for simulating the onset of clinical symptoms in MS. Previous research has reported the anti-inflammatory effects of artemisinin on autoimmune diseases. In our study, we identified a novel small molecule, TPN10518, an artemisinin derivative, which plays a protective role on the EAE model. We found that TPN10518 reduced CNS inflammatory cell infiltration and alleviated clinical symptoms of EAE. In addition, TPN10518 downregulated the production of Th1 and Th17 cells in vivo and in vitro, and decrease the levels of related chemokines. RNA-seq assay combined with the experimental results demonstrated that TPN10518 lowered the mRNA and protein levels of the AP1 subunits c-Fos and c-Jun in EAE mice. It was further confirmed that TPN10518 was dependent on AP1 to inhibit the differentiation of Th1 and Th17 cells. The results suggest that TPN10518 reduces the production of Th1 and Th17 cells through inhibition of AP1 to alleviate the severity of EAE disease. It is expected to be a potential drug for the treatment of MS.

Progress in Pathological and Therapeutic Research of HIV-Related Neuropathic Pain

HIV-related neuropathic pain (HRNP) is a neurodegeneration that gradually develops during the long-term course of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) and manifests as abnormal sock/sleeve-like symmetrical pain and nociceptive hyperalgesia in the extremities, which seriously reduces patient quality of life. To date, the pathogenesis of HRNP is not completely clear. There is a lack of effective clinical treatment for HRNP and it is becoming a challenge and hot spot for medical research. In this study, we conducted a systematic review of the progress of HRNP research in recent years including (1) the etiology, classification and clinical symptoms of HRNP, (2) the establishment of HRNP pathological models, (3) the pathological mechanisms underlying HRNP from three aspects: molecules, signaling pathways and cells, (4) the therapeutic strategies for HRNP, and (5) the limitations of recent HRNP research and the future research directions and prospects of HRNP. This detailed review provides new and systematic insight into the pathological mechanism of HRNP, which establishes a theoretical basis for the future exploitation of novel target drugs. HIV infection, antiretroviral therapy and opioid abuse contribute to the etiology of HRNP with symmetrical pain in both hands and feet, allodynia and hyperalgesia. The pathogenesis involves changes in cytokine expression, activation of signaling pathways and neuronal cell states. The therapy for HRNP should be patient-centered, integrating pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatments into multimodal intervention.

The selective activator protein-1 inhibitor T-5224 regulates the IRF4/MYC axis and exerts cooperative antimyeloma activity with bortezomib

The activating protein-1 (AP-1) transcription factors (TFs) have been associated with many different cancer types and are promising therapeutic targets in logical malignancies. However, the mechanisms of their role in multiple myeloma (MM) remain elusive. The present study determined and compared the mRNA and protein expression levels of the AP-1 family member JunB in CD138+ mononuclear cells from MM patients and healthy donors. Herein, we investigated the effect of T-5224, an inhibitor of JUN/AP-1, on MM. We found that the cytotoxicity of T-5224 toward myeloma is due to its ability to induce cell apoptosis, inhibit proliferation, and induce cell cycle arrest by increasing the levels of cleaved caspase3/7 and concomitantly inhibiting the IRF4/MYC axis. We also noticed that siJunB-mediated deletion of JunB/AP-1 enhanced MM cell apoptosis and affected cell proliferation. The software PROMO was used in the present study to predict the AP-1 TF that may bind the promoter region of IRF4. We confirmed the correlation between JunB/AP-1 and IRF4. Given that bortezomib (BTZ) facilitates IRF4 degradation in MM cells, we applied combination treatment of BTZ with T-5224. T-5224 and BTZ exerted synergistic effects, and T-5224 reversed the effect of BTZ on CD138+ primary resistance in MM cells, in part due to suppression of the IRF4/MYC axis. Our results suggest that targeting AP-1 TFs is a promising therapeutic strategy for MM. Additionally, targeting both AP-1 and IRF4 with T-5224 may be a synergistic therapeutic strategy for this clinically challenging subset of MM.

Reactive Oxygen Species-Dependent Activation of EGFR/Akt/p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase and JNK1/2/FoxO1 and AP-1 Pathways in Human Pulmonary Alveolar Epithelial Cells Leads to Up-Regulation of COX-2/PGE2 Induced by Silica Nanoparticles

The risk of lung exposure to silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) and related lung inflammatory injury is increasing with the wide application of SiNPs in a variety of industries. A growing body of research has revealed that cyclooxygenase (COX)-2/prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) up-regulated by SiNP toxicity has a role during pulmonary inflammation. The detailed mechanisms underlying SiNP-induced COX-2 expression and PGE2 synthesis remain unknown. The present study aims to dissect the molecular components involved in COX-2/PGE2 up-regulated by SiNPs in human pulmonary alveolar epithelial cells (HPAEpiCs) which are one of the major targets while SiNPs are inhaled. In the present study, we demonstrated that SiNPs induced COX-2 expression and PGE2 release, which were inhibited by pretreatment with a reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenger (edaravone) or the inhibitors of proline-rich tyrosine kinase 2 (Pyk2, PF-431396), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR, AG1478), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K, LY294002), protein kinase B (Akt, Akt inhibitor VIII), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) (p38 MAPK inhibitor VIII), c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK)1/2 (SP600125), Forkhead Box O1 (FoxO1, AS1842856), and activator protein 1 (AP-1, Tanshinone IIA). In addition, we also found that SiNPs induced ROS-dependent Pyk2, EGFR, Akt, p38 MAPK, and JNK1/2 activation in these cells. These signaling pathways induced by SiNPs could further cause c-Jun and FoxO1 activation and translocation from the cytosol to the nucleus. AP-1 and FoxO1 activation could increase COX-2 and PGE2 levels induced by SiNPs. Finally, the COX-2/PGE2 axis might promote the inflammatory responses in HPAEpiCs. In conclusion, we suggested that SiNPs induced COX-2 expression accompanied by PGE2 synthesis mediated via ROS/Pyk2/EGFR/PI3K/Akt/p38 MAPK- and JNK1/2-dependent FoxO1 and AP-1 activation in HPAEpiCs.

c-FOS is an integral component of the IKZF1 transactivator complex and mediates lenalidomide resistance in multiple myeloma

BACKGROUND

The immunomodulatory drug lenalidomide, which is now widely used for the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM), exerts pharmacological action through the ubiquitin-dependent degradation of IKZF1 and subsequent down-regulation of interferon regulatory factor 4 (IRF4), a critical factor for the survival of MM cells. IKZF1 acts principally as a tumour suppressor via transcriptional repression of oncogenes in normal lymphoid lineages. In contrast, IKZF1 activates IRF4 and other oncogenes in MM cells, suggesting the involvement of unknown co-factors in switching the IKZF1 complex from a transcriptional repressor to an activator. The transactivating components of the IKZF1 complex might promote lenalidomide resistance by residing on regulatory regions of the IRF4 gene to maintain its transcription after IKZF1 degradation.

METHODS

To identify unknown components of the IKZF1 complex, we analyzed the genome-wide binding of IKZF1 in MM cells using chromatin immunoprecipitation-sequencing (ChIP-seq) and screened for the co-occupancy of IKZF1 with other DNA-binding factors on the myeloma genome using the ChIP-Atlas platform.

RESULTS

We found that c-FOS, a member of the activator protein-1 (AP-1) family, is an integral component of the IKZF1 complex and is primarily responsible for the activator function of the complex in MM cells. The genome-wide screening revealed the co-occupancy of c-FOS with IKZF1 on the regulatory regions of IKZF1-target genes, including IRF4 and SLAMF7, in MM cells but not normal bone marrow progenitors, pre-B cells or mature T-lymphocytes. c-FOS and IKZF1 bound to the same consensus sequence as the IKZF1 complex through direct protein-protein interactions. The complex also includes c-JUN and IKZF3 but not IRF4. Treatment of MM cells with short-hairpin RNA against FOS or a selective AP-1 inhibitor significantly enhanced the anti-MM activity of lenalidomide in vitro and in two murine MM models. Furthermore, an AP-1 inhibitor mitigated the lenalidomide resistance of MM cells.

CONCLUSIONS

C-FOS determines lenalidomide sensitivity and mediates drug resistance in MM cells as a co-factor of IKZF1 and thus, could be a novel therapeutic target for further improvement of the prognosis of MM patients.

AP-1 is a regulatory transcription factor of inflammaging in the murine kidney and liver

Aging is characterized by chronic low-grade inflammation in multiple tissues, also termed "inflammaging", which represents a significant risk factor for many aging-related chronic diseases. However, the mechanisms and regulatory networks underlying inflammaging across different tissues have not yet been fully elucidated. Here, we profiled the transcriptomes and epigenomes of the kidney and liver from young and aged mice and found that activation of the inflammatory response is a conserved signature in both tissues. Moreover, we revealed links between transcriptome changes and chromatin dynamics through integrative analysis and identified AP-1 and ETS family transcription factors (TFs) as potential regulators of inflammaging. Further in situ validation showed that c-JUN (a member of the AP-1 family) was mainly activated in aged renal and hepatic cells, while increased SPI1 (a member of the ETS family) was mostly induced by elevated infiltration of macrophages, indicating that these TFs have different mechanisms in inflammaging. Functional data demonstrated that genetic knockdown of Fos, a major member of the AP-1 family, significantly attenuated the inflammatory response in aged kidneys and livers. Taken together, our results revealed conserved signatures and regulatory TFs of inflammaging in the kidney and liver, providing novel targets for the development of anti-aging interventions.

Exosomes: A Promising Strategy for Repair, Regeneration and Treatment of Skin Disorders

The skin is the organ that serves as the outermost layer of protection against injury, pathogens, and homeostasis with external factors; in turn, it can be damaged by factors such as burns, trauma, exposure to ultraviolet light (UV), infrared radiation (IR), activating signaling pathways such as Toll-like receptors (TLR) and Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2), among others, causing a need to subsequently repair and regenerate the skin. However, pathologies such as diabetes lengthen the inflammatory stage, complicating the healing process and, in some cases, completely inhibiting it, generating susceptibility to infections. Exosomes are nano-sized extracellular vesicles that can be isolated and purified from different sources such as blood, urine, breast milk, saliva, urine, umbilical cord bile cells, and mesenchymal stem cells. They have bioactive compounds that, thanks to their paracrine activity, have proven to be effective as anti-inflammatory agents, inducers of macrophage polarization and accelerators of skin repair and regeneration, reducing the possible complications relating to poor wound repair, and prolonged inflammation. This review provides information on the use of exosomes as a promising therapy against damage from UV light, infrared radiation, burns, and skin disorders.

The Role of Oxidative Stress and Antioxidants in Cardiovascular Comorbidities in COPD

Oxidative stress driven by several environmental and local airway factors associated with chronic obstructive bronchiolitis, a hallmark feature of COPD, plays a crucial role in disease pathomechanisms. Unbalance between oxidants and antioxidant defense mechanisms amplifies the local inflammatory processes, worsens cardiovascular health, and contributes to COPD-related cardiovascular dysfunctions and mortality. The current review summarizes recent developments in our understanding of different mechanisms contributing to oxidative stress and its countermeasures, with special attention to those that link local and systemic processes. Major regulatory mechanisms orchestrating these pathways are also introduced, with some suggestions for further research in the field.

Crosstalk between phytochemicals and inflammatory signaling pathways

Novel bioactive constituents from natural sources are actively being investigated. The phytochemicals in these phenolic compounds are believed to have a variety of beneficial effects on human health. Several phenolic compounds have been found in plants. The antioxidant potential of phenols has been discussed in numerous studies along with their anti-inflammatory effects on pro-inflammatory cytokine, inducible cyclooxygenase-2, and nitric oxide synthase. Through current study, an attempt is made to outline and highlight a wide variety of inflammation-associated signaling pathways that have been modified by several natural compounds. These signaling pathways include nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-кB), activator protein (AP)-1, protein tyrosine kinases (PTKs), mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) transcription factors, tyrosine phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT, and the ubiquitin-proteasome system. In light of the influence of natural substances on signaling pathways, their impact on the production of inflammatory mediator is highlighted in this review.

Transcriptional regulation of macrophages in heart failure

Adverse cardiac remodeling after acute myocardial infarction is the most important pathological mechanism of heart failure and remains a major problem in clinical practice. Cardiac macrophages, derived from tissue resident macrophages and circulating monocyte, undergo significant phenotypic and functional changes following cardiac injury and play crucial roles in inflammatory response and tissue repair response. Currently, numerous studies indicate that epigenetic regulatory factors and transcription factors can regulate the transcription of inflammatory and reparative genes and timely conversion of inflammatory macrophages into reparative macrophages and then alleviate cardiac remodeling. Accordingly, targeting transcriptional regulation of macrophages may be a promising option for heart failure treatment. In this review, we not only summarize the origin and function of cardiac macrophages, but more importantly, describe the transcriptional regulation of macrophages in heart failure, aiming to provide a potential therapeutic target for heart failure.

Insulin-like growth factor 1 reduces coronary atherosclerosis in pigs with familial hypercholesterolemia

Although murine models of coronary atherosclerotic disease have been used extensively to determine mechanisms, limited new therapeutic options have emerged. Pigs with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH pigs) develop complex coronary atheromas that are almost identical to human lesions. We reported previously that insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) reduced aortic atherosclerosis and promoted features of stable plaque in a murine model. We administered human recombinant IGF-1 or saline (control) in atherosclerotic FH pigs for 6 months. IGF-1 decreased relative coronary atheroma in vivo (intravascular ultrasound) and reduced lesion cross-sectional area (postmortem histology). IGF-1 increased plaque's fibrous cap thickness, and reduced necrotic core, macrophage content, and cell apoptosis, consistent with promotion of a stable plaque phenotype. IGF-1 reduced circulating triglycerides, markers of systemic oxidative stress, and CXCL12 chemokine levels. We used spatial transcriptomics (ST) to identify global transcriptome changes in advanced plaque compartments and to obtain mechanistic insights into IGF-1 effects. ST analysis showed that IGF-1 suppressed FOS/FOSB factors and gene expression of MMP9 and CXCL14 in plaque macrophages, suggesting possible involvement of these molecules in IGF-1's effect on atherosclerosis. Thus, IGF-1 reduced coronary plaque burden and promoted features of stable plaque in a pig model, providing support for consideration of clinical trials.

Activating Protein-1 (AP-1): A Promising Target for the Treatment of Fibrotic Diseases

The fibrosis of tissues and organs occurs via an aberrant tissue remodeling process characterized by an excessive deposition of extracellular matrix, which can lead to organ dysfunction, organ failure, and death. Because the pathogenesis of fibrosis remains unclear and elusive, there is currently no medication to reverse it; hence, this process deserves further study. Activating protein-1 (AP-1)-comprising Jun (c-Jun, JunB, JunD), Fos (c-fos, FosB, Fra1, and Fra2), and activating transcription factor-is a versatile dimeric transcription factor. Numerous studies have demonstrated that AP-1 plays a crucial role in advancing tissue and organ fibrosis via induction of the expression of fibrotic molecules and activating fibroblasts. This review focuses on the role of AP-1 in a range of fibrotic disorders as well as on the antifibrotic effects of AP-1 inhibitors. It also discusses the potential of AP-1 as a new therapeutic target in conditions involving tissue and organ fibrosis.