Anti-apoptotic BCL-2 family members in development

Transcriptional regulation and therapeutic potential of cyclin-dependent kinase 9 (CDK9) in sarcoma

Sarcomas include various subtypes comprising two significant groups - soft tissue and bone sarcomas. Although the survival rate for some sarcoma subtypes has improved over time, the current methods of treatment remain efficaciously limited, as recurrent, and metastatic diseases remain a major obstacle. There is a need for better options and therapeutic strategies in treating sarcoma. Cyclin dependent kinase 9 (CDK9) is a transcriptional kinase and has emerged as a promising target for treating various cancers. The aberrant expression and activation of CDK9 have been observed in several sarcoma subtypes, including rhabdomyosarcoma, synovial sarcoma, osteosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma, and chordoma. Enhanced CDK9 expression has also been correlated with poorer prognosis in sarcoma patients. As a master regulator of transcription, CDK9 promotes transcription elongation by phosphorylation and releasing RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) from its promoter proximal pause. Release of RNAPII from this pause induces transcription of critical genes in the tumor cell. Overexpression and activation of CDK9 have been observed to lead to the expression of oncogenes, including MYC and MCL-1, that aid sarcoma development and progression. Inhibition of CDK9 in sarcoma has been proven to reduce these oncogenes' expression and decrease proliferation and growth in different sarcoma cells. Currently, there are several CDK9 inhibitors in preclinical and clinical investigations. This review aims to highlight the recent discovery and results on the transcriptional role and therapeutic potential of CDK9 in sarcoma.

Echinops Asteraceae extract guards against malathion-induced liver damage via minimizing oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis

Malathion (MAL) is one of the highly toxic organophosphorus (OP) compounds that induces hepatotoxicity. Echinops. ritro leaves extract (ERLE) is traditionally used in the treatment of bacterial/fungal infections. This study's goal was to investigate the potential of extracts from ERLE against hepatotoxicity induced by MAL in male albino rats. Four equal groups of forty mature male albino rats were created: The rats in the first group used as a control. The second group of rats received ERLE orally. The third group received MAL. ERLE and MAL were administered to the fourth group of rats. Six-week treatment groups were conducted. Using lipid peroxidation indicators [malondialdehyde (MDA), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST)], oxidative stress markers [catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx)], apoptotic markers [Bcl-2 & caspase-3] and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). Rats treated with MAL underwent a significant increase on MDA, ALT, AST, caspase-3 and TNF-α marker with a significant decrease in antioxidant markers [CAT, SOD, GPx] and Bcl-2. Histologically, MAL-treated group's liver sections displayed damaged hepatocytes with collapsed portions, pyknotic nuclei, vacuolated cytoplasm, and congested central veins. Ultra structurally, rat livers treated with MAL showed dilated cisternae of endoplasmic reticulum, swollen mitochondria with disrupted cristae, nuclei with disrupted chromatin content, multiple lysosomes, multiple vacuolations and a disrupted blood sinusoid. With rats treated with ERLE, these alterations were essentially non-existent. It is possible to conclude that ERLE protects against MAL hepatotoxicity, and that this protection is related, at least in part, to its antioxidant activities.

miR-449a: A Promising Biomarker and Therapeutic Target in Cancer and Other Diseases

In the regulation of gene expression, epigenetic factors like non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) play an equal role in genetics. The role of microRNAs (miRNAs), which are members of the ncRNA family, in post-transcriptional gene regulation is well-documented and has important implications for both normal and abnormal biological processes, such as angiogenesis, proliferation, survival, and apoptosis. The purpose of this study was to synthesize previous research on miR-449a by analyzing published results from various databases, as there have been a number of investigations on miR-449's potential involvement in the development of human disorders. Based on our findings, miR-449 is strongly dysregulated in a wide range of diseases, from various cancers to cardiovascular diseases, cognitive impairments, and respiratory diseases, and it may play a pivotal role in the development of these problems. In addition, miR-449a functions as a crucial regulator of the expression of several well-known genes, including E2F-3, BCL2, NOTCH1, and SOX4. This, in turn, modulates various pathways and processes related to cancer, including Notch, PI3K, and TGF-β, and contributes to the improvement of cancer drug sensitivity. Curiously, abnormalities in the expression of this miRNA may serve as diagnostic or prognostic indicators for distinguishing between healthy people and patients or to evaluate the survival rates for specific disorders. This article provides a synopsis of the current understanding of miR-449a's role in human disease development through its regulation of gene expression and the biological processes related to these genes and their linked processes. In addition, we have covered the topic of miR-449a's potential as a clinical feature (diagnosis and prognosis) indicator for a range of disorders, both neoplastic and non-neoplastic. In general, our goal was to gain a thorough comprehension of the numerous functions of miR-449a in different disorders.

Exploration of beauvericin's toxic effects and mechanisms in human astrocytes and N-acetylcysteine's protective role

Beauvericin (BEA) is a newly identified mycotoxin produced by various Fusarium species, and its contamination in food and animal feed is widespread globally. This mycotoxin demonstrates cytotoxic effects by inducing oxidative stress in multiple models. Furthermore, evidence indicates that BEA possesses diverse toxic activities, making it a promising candidate for toxicological research. Recent studies have highlighted the ability of BEA to traverse the blood-brain barrier, suggesting its potential neurotoxicity. However, limited information is available regarding the neurotoxic effects of BEA on human astrocytes. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the neurotoxic effects of BEA on the Gibco® Human Astrocyte (GHA) cell line and elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Additionally, the study aimed to investigate the protective effects of the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) against BEA-induced toxicity. The data show that exposure to BEA within the 2.5-15 μM concentration range resulted in concentration-dependent cytotoxicity. BEA-treated cells exhibited significantly increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), while intracellular glutathione (GSH) content was significantly reduced. Western blot analysis of cells treated with BEA revealed altered protein levels of Bax, cleaved caspase-9, and caspase-3, along with an increased Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, indicating the induction of apoptosis. Additionally, BEA exposure triggered antioxidant responses, as evidenced by increased protein expression of Nrf2, HO-1, and NQO1. Significantly, pretreatment with NAC partially attenuated the significant toxic effects of BEA. In conclusion, our findings suggest that BEA-induced cytotoxicity in GHA cells involves oxidative stress-associated apoptosis. Furthermore, NAC demonstrates potential as a protective agent against BEA-induced oxidative damage.

Cardiac differentiation is modulated by anti-apoptotic signals in murine embryonic stem cells

BACKGROUND

Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) serve as a crucial ex vivo model, representing epiblast cells derived from the inner cell mass of blastocyst-stage embryos. ESCs exhibit a unique combination of self-renewal potency, unlimited proliferation, and pluripotency. The latter is evident by the ability of the isolated cells to differentiate spontaneously into multiple cell lineages, representing the three primary embryonic germ layers. Multiple regulatory networks guide ESCs, directing their self-renewal and lineage-specific differentiation. Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, emerges as a key event involved in sculpting and forming various organs and structures ensuring proper embryonic development. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the dynamic interplay between differentiation and apoptosis remain poorly understood.

AIM

To investigate the regulatory impact of apoptosis on the early differentiation of ESCs into cardiac cells, using mouse ESC (mESC) models - mESC-B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL-2), mESC-PIM-2, and mESC-metallothionein-1 (MET-1) - which overexpress the anti-apoptotic genes Bcl-2, Pim-2, and Met-1, respectively.

METHODS

mESC-T2 (wild-type), mESC-BCL-2, mESC-PIM-2, and mESC-MET-1 have been used to assess the effect of potentiated apoptotic signals on cardiac differentiation. The hanging drop method was adopted to generate embryoid bodies (EBs) and induce terminal differentiation of mESCs. The size of the generated EBs was measured in each condition compared to the wild type. At the functional level, the percentage of cardiac differentiation was measured by calculating the number of beating cardiomyocytes in the manipulated mESCs compared to the control. At the molecular level, quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction was used to assess the mRNA expression of three cardiac markers: Troponin T, GATA4, and NKX2.5. Additionally, troponin T protein expression was evaluated through immunofluorescence and western blot assays.

RESULTS

Our findings showed that the upregulation of Bcl-2, Pim-2, and Met-1 genes led to a reduction in the size of the EBs derived from the manipulated mESCs, in comparison with their wild-type counterpart. Additionally, a decrease in the count of beating cardiomyocytes among differentiated cells was observed. Furthermore, the mRNA expression of three cardiac markers - troponin T, GATA4, and NKX2.5 - was diminished in mESCs overexpressing the three anti-apoptotic genes compared to the control cell line. Moreover, the overexpression of the anti-apoptotic genes resulted in a reduction in troponin T protein expression.

CONCLUSION

Our findings revealed that the upregulation of Bcl-2, Pim-2, and Met-1 genes altered cardiac differentiation, providing insight into the intricate interplay between apoptosis and ESC fate determination.

Antioxidants activities of phytochemicals perspective modulation of autophagy and apoptosis to treating cancer

The study of chemicals extracted from natural sources should be encouraged due to the significant number of cancer deaths each year and the financial burden imposed by this disease on society. The causes of almost all cancers involve a combination of lifestyle, environmental factors, and genetic and inherited factors. Modern medicine researchers are increasingly interested in traditional phytochemicals as they hold potential for new bioactive compounds with medical applications. Recent publications have provided evidence of the antitumor properties of phytochemicals, a key component of traditional Chinese medicine, thereby opening new avenues for their use in modern medicine. Various studies have demonstrated a strong correlation between apoptosis and autophagy, two critical mechanisms involved in cancer formation and regulation, indicating diverse forms of crosstalk between them. Phytochemicals have the ability to activate both pro-apoptotic and pro-autophagic pathways. Therefore, understanding how phytochemicals influence the relationship between apoptosis and autophagy is crucial for developing a new cancer treatment strategy that targets these molecular mechanisms. This review aims to explore natural phytochemicals that have demonstrated anticancer effects, focusing on their role in regulating the crosstalk between apoptosis and autophagy, which contributes to uncontrolled tumor cell growth. Additionally, the review highlights the limitations and challenges of current research methodologies while suggesting potential avenues for future research in this field.

Tivozanib-induced activation of the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway and suppression of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in oral squamous cell carcinoma

The potential of tivozanib as a treatment for oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) was explored in this study. We investigated the effects of tivozanib on OSCC using the Ca9-22 and CAL27 cell lines. OSCC is a highly prevalent cancer type with a significant risk of lymphatic metastasis and recurrence, which necessitates the development of innovative treatment approaches. Tivozanib, a vascular endothelial growth factor receptor inhibitor, has shown efficacy in inhibiting neovascularization in various cancer types but has not been thoroughly studied in OSCC. Our comprehensive assessment revealed that tivozanib effectively inhibited OSCC cells. This was accompanied by the suppression of Bcl-2, a reduction in matrix metalloproteinase levels, and the induction of intrinsic pathway-mediated apoptosis. Furthermore, tivozanib contributed to epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) inhibition by increasing E-cadherin levels while decreasing N-cadherin levels. These findings highlight the substantial anticancer potential of tivozanib in OSCC and thus its promise as a therapeutic option. Beyond reducing cell viability and inducing apoptosis, the capacity of tivozanib to inhibit EMT and modulate key proteins presents the possibility of a paradigm shift in OSCC treatment.

Anti-apoptotic MCL-1 promotes long-chain fatty acid oxidation through interaction with ACSL1

MCL-1 is essential for promoting the survival of many normal cell lineages and confers survival and chemoresistance in cancer. Beyond apoptosis regulation, MCL-1 has been linked to modulating mitochondrial metabolism, but the mechanism(s) by which it does so are unclear. Here, we show in tissues and cells that MCL-1 supports essential steps in long-chain (but not short-chain) fatty acid β-oxidation (FAO) through its binding to specific long-chain acyl-coenzyme A (CoA) synthetases of the ACSL family. ACSL1 binds to the BH3-binding hydrophobic groove of MCL-1 through a non-conventional BH3-domain. Perturbation of this interaction, via genetic loss of Mcl1, mutagenesis, or use of selective BH3-mimetic MCL-1 inhibitors, represses long-chain FAO in cells and in mouse livers and hearts. Our findings reveal how anti-apoptotic MCL-1 facilitates mitochondrial metabolism and indicate that disruption of this function may be associated with unanticipated cardiac toxicities of MCL-1 inhibitors in clinical trials.

Moringa oleifera leaves ethanolic extract counteracts cortical neurodegeneration induced by aluminum chloride in rats

Background

Aluminum, a well-recognized neurotoxin, is implicated in various neurodegenerative disorders. Moringa oleifera (M. oleifera), known as a miracle tree, is utilized as a functional food and nutritional supplement. This study investigates the potential preventive effects of M. oleifera extract on aluminum chloride (AlCl3)-induced cortical neurodegeneration in rats.

Materials and methods

Therefore, 24 adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four distinct groups: negative control, M. oleifera extract (MOE), AlCl3, and AlCl3 + MOE. Treatments were administered orally for 28 consecutive days. Cognitive performance, brain oxidative/nitrosative stress, neuroinflammation, apoptotic-cell death, and associated histopathological alterations were assessed.

Results

Our results showed that MOE improved spatial learning and memory, enhanced antioxidant superoxide dismutase enzyme activity, antagonized nitrosative stress, reduced inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-6), decreased caspase-3, increased Bcl-2, and facilitated repair of cortical and hippocampal structures.

Conclusions

We concluded that MOE exhibits protective effects against cortical neurodegeneration, making it a promising supplement to counteract aluminum-induced neurotoxic effects.

Sesquiterpene lactones as emerging biomolecules to cease cancer by targeting apoptosis

Apoptosis is a programmed cell death comprising two signaling cascades including the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways. This process has been shown to be involved in the therapy response of different cancer types, making it an effective target for treating cancer. Cancer has been considered a challenging issue in global health. Cancer cells possess six biological characteristics during their developmental process known as cancer hallmarks. Hallmarks of cancer include continuous growth signals, unlimited proliferation, resistance to proliferation inhibitors, apoptosis escaping, active angiogenesis, and metastasis. Sesquiterpene lactones are one of the large and diverse groups of planet-derived phytochemicals that can be used as sources for a variety of drugs. Some sesquiterpene lactones possess many biological activities such as anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-microbial, anti-malarial, anticancer, anti-diabetic, and analgesic. This review article briefly overviews the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways of apoptosis and the interactions between the modulators of both pathways. Also, the present review summarizes the potential effects of sesquiterpene lactones on different modulators of the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways of apoptosis in a variety of cancer cell lines and animal models. The main purpose of the present review is to give a clear picture of the current knowledge about the pro-apoptotic effects of sesquiterpene lactones on various cancers to provide future direction in cancer therapeutics.

Modulation of thioredoxin by chlorogenic acid in an ischemic stroke model and glutamate-exposed neurons

Ischemic stroke increases the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can eventually lead to neuronal death. Thioredoxin is a small reductase protein that acts as an eliminator of ROS and protects neurons from brain damage. Chlorogenic acid is known as a phenolic compound that has a neuroprotective effect. We investigated the change of thioredoxin expression by chlorogenic acid in a middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) animal model. Adult rats were injected intraperitoneally with phosphate buffered saline or chlorogenic acid (30 mg/kg) 2 h after MCAO. MCAO damage induced neurological defects and increased ROS and lipid peroxidation levels, however, chlorogenic acid mitigated these changes. MCAO damage reduced thioredoxin expression, which was mitigated by chlorogenic acid treatment. The interaction between thioredoxin and apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1) was decreased in MCAO animals, chlorogenic acid treatment prevented this decrease. In cultured neurons, chlorogenic acid dose-dependently attenuated glutamate-induced decreases in cell viability and thioredoxin expression. Glutamate toxicity downregulated bcl-2 and upregulated bax, cytochrome c, and caspase-3, however, chlorogenic acid attenuated these changes. The mitigating effect of chlorogenic acid was lower in thioredoxin siRNA-transfected cells than in non-transfected cells. These results provide evidence that chlorogenic acid exerts potent antioxidant and neuroprotective effects through regulation of thioredoxin and modulation of ASK1 and thioredoxin binding in ischemic brain injury. These findings indicate that chlorogenic acid exerts a neuroprotective effect by regulating thioredoxin expression in cerebral ischemia and glutamate exposure conditions.

Protective effect of quercetin on cadmium-induced kidney apoptosis in rats based on PERK signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Cadmium (Cd) is a highly toxic environmental pollutant that can enter the body through bioaccumulation. The kidney is an important target organ for Cd poisoning. Quercetin (Que) is a natural flavonoid compound with free radical scavenging and antioxidant properties. Previous studies showed that Que can alleviate kidney damage caused by Cd poisoning in rats, but the specific mechanism is still unclear.

METHODS

Twenty-four male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were divided into four groups: normal saline-treated control group, Cd group treated by intraperitoneal injection of 2 mg/kg b.w. CdCl2, Cd + Que group treated by intraperitoneal injection of 2 mg/kg b.w. CdCl2 and 100 mg/kg b.w. Que, and Que group treated by 100 mg/kg b.w. Que. Four weeks later, the rats were anesthetized with diethyl ether, and blood was taken intravenously. The rats were executed with their necks cut off, and the kidneys were removed. Body weight, kidney organ weight, and glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured. The structure of kidney tissue was observed by hematoxylin and eosin staining, kidney cell apoptosis was detected by TUNEL assay, and the mRNA expression levels of genes related to the PERK signaling pathway were analyzed by RT-PCR.

RESULTS

Compared with the control group, the Cd-treated group exhibited a significant decrease in body weight (P < 0.01). Their kidneys showed a significant increase in the relative organ weight (P < 0.01). Moreover, the MDA and GSH levels increased. Kidney tissue damage and renal cell apoptosis were observed, and the mRNA expression levels of genes related to the PERK signaling pathway significantly increased (P < 0.01). Compared with the Cd-treated group, the Cd + Que group exhibited a significant increase in body weight (P < 0.01) and significant decreases in the relative organ weight, MDA and GSH levels, and mRNA expression levels of genes related to the PERK signaling pathway (P < 0.01). Furthermore, kidney tissue damage and renal cell apoptosis were observed.

CONCLUSION

Cd treatment resulted in rat weight loss, renal edema, and oxidative stress and caused renal tissue damage and cell apoptosis by activating the PERK signaling pathway. Que was able to restore the body weight and renal coefficient of rats. It also alleviated the oxidative stress and kidney tissue damage caused by Cd and the cell apoptosis caused by Cd through inhibiting the PERK signaling pathway. Thus, Que could be considered for the treatment of kidney diseases caused by Cd poisoning.

Oocyte competence and gene expression in parthenogenetic produced embryos from repeat breeder and normally fertile buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) raised in sub-humid tropical climate

The reproductive management of the buffalo species still faces several unresolved problems, which directly affect the productivity of the herd, one of them being the presence of repeat breeder females. Given this scenario, this study aimed to verify the developmental competence of oocytes obtained from repeat breeder females and submitted to parthenogenetic activation. In addition, embryo gene expression was compared to normally fertile females. Murrah buffaloes were divided into two groups: repeat breeder (RB, n = 8) and normally fertile or control (CR, n = 7). Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were aspirated by transvaginal ovum pick-up from estrus synchronized females. The COCs were submitted to IVM for 24 h, and subsequently, the oocytes were activated using ionomycin, followed by 6-DMAP. Afterwards, the presumptive parthenotes were cultured for six or seven days in a microenvironment of 5 % CO2, 5 % O2, and 90 % N2 at 38.5 °C. The expression of OCT4, GLUT1, BCL2 and TFAM genes from blastocysts was evaluated. The overall COCs recovery rate was 70.9 % (190/268). The maturation (57.8 vs 71.1), cleavage (45.2 vs 62.2) and blastocyst (30.1 vs 45.9) rates did not differ (P > 0.05) between RB and CR females, respectively. Similarly, no significant difference (P > 0.05) was observed for the expression of studied genes in both RB and CR females. In conclusion, oocytes obtained from RB were as developmentally competent as those collected from CR females, with similar energy metabolism and in vitro development capacity. Thus, the low fertility rate of repeat breeder buffaloes, when compared to normal cyclic females, must be due to subsequent events to the blastocyst stage.

Protective effects of vitamin E against acrylamide-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity from fetal development to adulthood: Insights into Akt/NF-κB and Bcl-xL/Bax signaling pathways

Acrylamide (ACR), a toxin present in fried and baked carbohydrate-rich foods, is known to cause liver and kidney damage. This study aimed to investigate the mechanisms of oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis that contribute to liver and kidney damage induced by chronic administration of ACR. Additionally, the effectiveness of vitamin E in mitigating these toxic effects was examined. The study initially involved dividing 40 pregnant rats into four groups. After lactation, the research continued with male offspring rats from each group. The offspring rats were divided into Control, Vitamin E, ACR, and ACR + Vitamin E groups. Following ACR administration, liver and kidney function tests were performed on serum samples. Biochemical analyses, evaluation of inflammation markers, histopathological examination, and assessment of protein levels of Akt/IκBα/NF-κB, Bax, Bcl-xL, and Caspase-9 were conducted on liver and kidney tissues. The analysis demonstrated that ACR adversely affected liver and kidney function, resulting in oxidative stress, increased inflammation, and elevated apoptotic markers. Conversely, administration of vitamin E positively impacted these parameters, restoring them to control levels. Based on the results, the mechanism of ACR's action on oxidative stress and inflammation-induced liver and kidney damage may be associated with the activation of apoptotic markers such as Bax and Caspase-9, as well as the Akt/IκBα/NF-κB signaling pathway. Consequently, the protective properties of vitamin E establish it as an essential vitamin for the prevention or mitigation of various ACR-induced damages.

CBFA2T3::GLIS2 pediatric acute megakaryoblastic leukemia is sensitive to BCL-XL inhibition by navitoclax and DT2216

ABSTRACT

Acute megakaryoblastic leukemia (AMKL) is a rare, developmentally restricted, and highly lethal cancer of early childhood. The paucity and hypocellularity (due to myelofibrosis) of primary patient samples hamper the discovery of cell- and genotype-specific treatments. AMKL is driven by mutually exclusive chimeric fusion oncogenes in two-thirds of the cases, with CBFA2T3::GLIS2 (CG2) and NUP98 fusions (NUP98r) representing the highest-fatality subgroups. We established CD34+ cord blood-derived CG2 models (n = 6) that sustain serial transplantation and recapitulate human leukemia regarding immunophenotype, leukemia-initiating cell frequencies, comutational landscape, and gene expression signature, with distinct upregulation of the prosurvival factor B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2). Cell membrane proteomic analyses highlighted CG2 surface markers preferentially expressed on leukemic cells compared with CD34+ cells (eg, NCAM1 and CD151). AMKL differentiation block in the mega-erythroid progenitor space was confirmed by single-cell profiling. Although CG2 cells were rather resistant to BCL2 genetic knockdown or selective pharmacological inhibition with venetoclax, they were vulnerable to strategies that target the megakaryocytic prosurvival factor BCL-XL (BCL2L1), including in vitro and in vivo treatment with BCL2/BCL-XL/BCL-W inhibitor navitoclax and DT2216, a selective BCL-XL proteolysis-targeting chimera degrader developed to limit thrombocytopenia in patients. NUP98r AMKL were also sensitive to BCL-XL inhibition but not the NUP98r monocytic leukemia, pointing to a lineage-specific dependency. Navitoclax or DT2216 treatment in combination with low-dose cytarabine further reduced leukemic burden in mice. This work extends the cellular and molecular diversity set of human AMKL models and uncovers BCL-XL as a therapeutic vulnerability in CG2 and NUP98r AMKL.

Genetic variants in BCL-2 family genes influence the risk of non-syndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate

BACKGROUND

The BCL-2 family is crucial for cell death regulation and is involved in development, tissue homeostasis, and immunity. This study aimed to investigate the association between genetic variants in BCL-2 family genes and non-syndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate (NSCL/P) risk.

METHODS

A two-stage case-control study was conducted in this association study. Gene-based analysis using Multi-marker Analysis of GenoMic Annotation was performed in the first stage cohort, which included 565 cases and 1269 controls. A logistic regression model was employed to assess the effect of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on susceptibility to NSCL/P. Candidate SNPs were replicated by extra dbGaP case-parent trios. Haploreg, RegulomeDB, and UCSC Genome Browser were used to identify enhancer effects of promising SNPs. Bulk RNA sequencing data obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus was used to identify co-expressed genes. Single-cell RNA sequencing dataset was used to infer the cell population of the candidate gene. The "Monocle" package was used to analyze the pseudotime cell trajectories.

RESULTS

Rs3943258 located in the enhancer region was associated with the risk of NSCL/P (Pmeta  = 5.66 × 10-04 ) and exhibited an eQTL effect for BCL2 (P = 3.96 × 10-02 ). Co-expression and pathway enrichment analysis revealed that genes related to Bcl2 were significantly enriched in the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, MAPK signaling pathway, and Wnt signaling pathway. Five cell clusters were identified in single-cell RNA sequencing, and Bcl2 was mainly located in the mesenchyme.

CONCLUSION

The rs3943258 located within BCL2 was probably related to NSCL/P susceptibility.

The Role of Cancer Stem Cell Markers in Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynaecological cancer and the eighth most common female cancer. The early diagnosis of ovarian cancer remains a clinical problem despite the significant development of technology. Nearly 70% of patients with ovarian cancer are diagnosed with stages III-IV metastatic disease. Reliable diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers are currently lacking. Ovarian cancer recurrence and resistance to chemotherapy pose vital problems and translate into poor outcomes. Cancer stem cells appear to be responsible for tumour recurrence resulting from chemotherapeutic resistance. These cells are also crucial for tumour initiation due to the ability to self-renew, differentiate, avoid immune destruction, and promote inflammation and angiogenesis. Studies have confirmed an association between CSC occurrence and resistance to chemotherapy, subsequent metastases, and cancer relapses. Therefore, the elimination of CSCs appears important for overcoming drug resistance and improving prognoses. This review focuses on the expression of selected ovarian CSC markers, including CD133, CD44, CD24, CD117, and aldehyde dehydrogenase 1, which show potential prognostic significance. Some markers expressed on the surface of CSCs correlate with clinical features and can be used for the diagnosis and prognosis of ovarian cancer. However, due to the heterogeneity and plasticity of CSCs, the determination of specific CSC phenotypes is difficult.

Synephrine and Its Derivative Compound A: Common and Specific Biological Effects

This review is focused on synephrine, the principal phytochemical found in bitter orange and other medicinal plants and widely used as a dietary supplement for weight loss/body fat reduction. We examine different aspects of synephrine biology, delving into its established and potential molecular targets, as well as its mechanisms of action. We present an overview of the origin, chemical composition, receptors, and pharmacological properties of synephrine, including its anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer activity in various in vitro and animal models. Additionally, we conduct a comparative analysis of the molecular targets and effects of synephrine with those of its metabolite, selective glucocorticoid receptor agonist (SEGRA) Compound A (CpdA), which shares a similar chemical structure with synephrine. SEGRAs, including CpdA, have been extensively studied as glucocorticoid receptor activators that have a better benefit/risk profile than glucocorticoids due to their reduced adverse effects. We discuss the potential of synephrine usage as a template for the synthesis of new generation of non-steroidal SEGRAs. The review also provides insights into the safe pharmacological profile of synephrine.

In vitro chemo-protective effect of Eisenia foetida coelomic fluid against histone deacetylase inhibitor-induced oxidative toxicity in breast cancer cells

Developing new drugs from natural products is important for therapeutic effects to minimise tissue toxicity of drugs used in cancer treatment. Eisenia foetida is a worm with a double transport system consisting of coelomic fluid (ECF) that can be used as alternative medicine. It is important to eliminate or reduce the high cytotoxicity of sodium butyrate (NaBu), a chemotherapeutic agent used in breast cancer treatment, for both neoplastic and normal cells. We aimed to evaluate the effect of ECF on the oxidative toxicity induced by NaBu in MCF-7 cells, changes in ROS production levels and expression of cell death and ROS-related genes. It was determined that the expression levels of Bax and Bcl-2 genes remained unchanged, while the amount of ROS decreased significantly in MCF-7 cells exposed to NaBu with ECF. Thus, ECF may be a potential therapeutic molecule with fewer side effects in cancer treatment in the future.

Investigation of BAK, BAX and MAD2L1 gene expression in human aneuploid blastocysts

Maintaining genomic stability is crucial for normal development. At earlier stages of preimplantation development, as the embryonic genome activation is not fully completed, the embryos may be more prone to abnormalities. Aneuploidies are one of the most common genetic causes of implantation failure or first-trimester miscarriages. Apoptosis is a crucial mechanism to eliminate damaged or abnormal cells from the organism to enable healthy growth. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the relationship between the expression levels of genes involved in apoptosis in human aneuploid and euploid blastocysts. In total, 32 human embryos obtained from 21 patients were used for this study. Trophectoderm biopsies were performed and next-generation screening was carried out for aneuploidy screening. Total RNA was extracted from each blastocyst separately and cDNA was synthesized. Gene expression levels were evaluated using RT-PCR. The statistical analysis was performed to evaluate the gene expression level variations in the euploid and aneuploid embryos, respectively. The expression level of the BAX gene was significantly different between the aneuploid and euploid samples. BAX expression levels were found to be 1.5-fold lower in aneuploid cells. However, the expression levels of BAK and MAD2L1 genes were similar in each group. This study aimed to investigate the possible role of genes involved in apoptosis and aneuploidy mechanisms. The findings of this investigation revealed that the BAX gene was expressed significantly differently between aneuploid and euploid embryos. Therefore, it is possible that the genes involved in the apoptotic pathway have a role in the aneuploidy mechanism.

Synergistic ROS generation and directional overloading of endogenous calcium induce mitochondrial dysfunction in living cells

Taking advantage of endogenous Ca2+ to upregulate intramitochondrial Ca2+ level has become a powerful mean for mitochondrial dysfunction-mediated tumor therapy. However, the Ca2+ entered into mitochondria is limited ascribing to the uncontrollability and non-selectivity of endogenous Ca2+ transport. It remains a great challenge to make the maximum use of endogenous Ca2+ to ensure sufficient Ca2+ overloading in mitochondria. Herein, we smartly fabricate an intracellular Ca2+ directional transport channel to selectively transport endogenous Ca2+ from endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to mitochondria based on cascade release nanoplatform ABT-199@liposomes/doxorubicin@FeIII-tannic acid (ABT@Lip/DOX@Fe-TA). In tumor acidic microenvironment, Fe3+ ions are firstly released and reduced by tannic acid (TA) to Fe2+ for ROS generation. Subsequently, under the NIR light irradiation, the released ABT-199 molecules combine with ROS contribute to the formation of IP3R-Grp75-VDAC1 channel between ER and mitochondria, thus Ca2+ ions are directionally delivered and intramitochondrial Ca2+ level is significantly upregulated. The synergetic ROS generation and mitochondrial Ca2+ overloading effectively intensifies mitochondrial dysfunction, thereby achieving efficient tumor inhibition. This work presents a new insight and promising avenue for endogenous Ca2+-involved tumor therapies.

Mitigative potential of rhoifolin against cisplatin prompted testicular toxicity: biochemical, spermatogenic and histological based analysis

Rhoifolin (ROF) is a naturally occurring flavonoid compound with diverse pharmacological and therapeutic benefits. The current investigation was designed to evaluate the curative potential of Rhoifolin (ROF) against Cisplatin (CP) induced testicular damage. Mature male albino rats (n = 48) were randomly distributed into 4 equal groups: control, CP (10 mg/kg), CP + ROF (10 mg/kg + 20 mg/kg) and ROF (20 mg/kg) supplemented group. Following 56 days of the trial, biochemical, inflammatory markers, spermatogenic, steroidogenic, hormonal, apoptotic, anti-apoptotic, and histopathological parameters were evaluated. The exposure to CP markedly (p < 0.05) lowered the activities of anti-oxidant enzymes, glutathione reductase (GSR), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) as well as superoxide dismutase (SOD) in testicular tissues of male albino rats. Besides the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) were considerably augmented in CP exposed rats. The administration of CP also increased the level of inflammatory cytokines i.e. IL-6, TNF-α, 1L-1β and NF-κβ as well as COX-2 activity. Additionally, a notable (p < 0.05) upsurge was observed in dead sperms count, abnormality in the tail, midpiece as well as head of sperms along with a notable decline in sperm motility in CP treated rats. Moreover, the expressions of steroidogenic enzymes were also lowered in CP administered group. The levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and plasma testosterone as well as luteinizing hormone (LH) were decreased in CP treated group. Moreover, the expression of Bax as well as Caspase-3 (apoptotic markers) were increased. On the other hand, Bcl-2 expression (anti-apoptotic marker) was reduced. Furthermore, the histopathological analysis showed that CP considerably (p < 0.05) damaged the testicular tissues. However, the administration of ROF significantly reduced the damaging effects of CP in testicular tissues. The results of our study suggested that ROF can potentially alleviate CP-induced testicular damages due to its androgenic, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory as well as anti-apoptotic nature.

The role of interferon-gamma and its receptors in gastrointestinal cancers

Gastrointestinal malignancies are the most prevalent type of cancer around the world. Even though numerous studies have evaluated gastrointestinal malignancies, the actual underlying mechanism is still unknown. These tumors have a poor prognosis and are frequently discovered at an advanced stage. Globally, there is an increase in the incidence and mortality of gastrointestinal malignancies, including those of the stomach, esophagus, colon, liver, and pancreas. Growth factors and cytokines are signaling molecules that are part of the tumor microenvironment and play a significant role in the development and spread of malignancies. IFN-γ induce its effects by activation of intracellular molecular networks. The main pathway involved in IFN-γ signaling is the JAK/STAT pathway, which regulates the transcription of hundreds of genes and mediates various biological responses. IFN-γ receptor is composed of two IFN-γR1 chains and two IFN-γR2 chains. Binding to IFN-γ, causes the intracellular domains of IFN-γR2 to oligomerize and transphosphorylate with IFN-γR1 which activates downstream signaling components: JAK1 and JAK2. These activated JAKs phosphorylate the receptor, creating binding sites for STAT1. STAT1 is then phosphorylated by JAK, resulting in the formation of STAT1 homodimers (gamma activated factors or GAFs) that translocate to the nucleus and regulate gene expression. The balance between positive and negative regulation of this pathway is crucial for immune responses and tumorigenesis. In this paper, we evaluate the dynamic roles of IFN- γ and its receptors in gastrointestinal cancers and present evidence that inhibiting IFN- γ signaling may be an effective treatment strategy.

Acetylated Oligopeptide and N-acetyl cysteine Protected Against Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, Testicular-Blood Barrier Damage, and Testicular Cell Death in Iron-Overload Rat Model

Multiple organs, including the testes, are damaged by iron overload. It has been shown that N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) influences oxidative stress in iron overload. The present study aimed to evaluate the roles of acetylated peptide (AOP) and NAC in the inhibition of iron-overload induced-testicular damage. At the beginning of the experiment, NAC (150 mg /kg) was given for a week to all 40 rats. Then, four groups were formed by dividing the animals (10 rats/group). Group I included healthy control rats. Group II (iron overload) was given intraperitoneal iron dextran (60 mg/kg/day) 5 days a week for 4 weeks. Group III (NAC) was given NAC orally at a dose of 150 mg/kg/day for 4 weeks in addition to iron dextran. Group IV (AOP) was given AOP orally at a dose of 150 mg/kg/day for 4 weeks besides iron dextran. When the experiment time was over, testosterone serum level, testicular B cell lymphoma-2 (BCL-2) and protein kinase B (PKB) protein levels, nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), and Beclin1 mRNA expression levels, and malondialdehyde (MDA), and reduced glutathione (GSH) were determined by ELISA, quantitative reverse transcription-PCR, and chemical methods. Finally, histopathological examinations and immunohistochemical detection of claudin-1 and CD68 were performed. The iron overload group exhibited decreased testosterone, BCL-2, PKB, claudin-1, and GSH and increased MDA, NF-κB, Beclin1, and CD68, while both NAC and AOP treatments protected against the biochemical and histopathological disturbances occurring in the iron overload model. We concluded that NAC and AOP can protect against testes damage by iron overload via their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, and ant-autophagic properties. The NAC and AOP may be used as preventative measures against iron overload-induced testicular damage.

The mechanism by which Naru 3 pill protects against intervertebral disc cartilage endplate degeneration based on network pharmacology and experimental verification

CONTEXT

Naru 3 pill is a traditional Mongolian medicine for the treatment of intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD), but the mechanism is not yet clear.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the mechanism of Naru 3 pill in the treatment of IDD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Active ingredients and related targets of Naru 3 pill, as well as IDD-related genes, were collected from public databases. The analysis was performed by protein‒protein interaction network analysis, gene ontology and Kyoto Gene and Genome Encyclopedia (KEGG) functional enrichment analysis, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations. Finally, the network pharmacology results were validated by in vitro experiments.

RESULTS

Network analysis showed that sesamin, piperine and ellagic acid were potential key components and CASP3, BAX and BCL2 were key targets. KEGG analysis indicated the apoptotic pathway as a potential pathway. Molecular docking showed that sesamin interacted better with the targets than the other components. The results of molecular dynamics simulations indicated that the three systems BAX-sesamin, BCL2-sesamin and CASP3-sesamin were stable and reasonable during the simulation. In vitro experiments showed that sesamin had the least effect on cell growth and the most pronounced proliferation-promoting effect, and so sesamin was considered the key component. The experiments confirmed that sesamin had antiapoptotic effects and reversed the expression of CASP3, BAX and BCL2 in degeneration models, which was consistent with the network pharmacology results. Furthermore, sesamin alleviated extracellular matrix (ECM) degeneration and promoted cell proliferation in the IDD model.

CONCLUSION

The present study suggested that Naru 3 pill might exert its therapeutic and antiapoptotic effects on IDD by delaying ECM degradation and promoting cell proliferation, which provides a new strategy for the treatment of IDD.

Strategies for the discovery of potential anticancer agents from plants collected from Southeast Asian tropical rainforests as a case study

Covering up to early 2023The present review summarizes recent accomplishments made as part of a multidisciplinary, multi-institutional anticancer drug discovery project, wherein samples comprising higher plants were collected primarily from Southeast Asia, and also from Central America, and the West Indies. In the introductory paragraphs, a short perspective is provided on the current importance of plants in the discovery of cancer therapeutic agents, and the contributions of other groups working towards this objective are mentioned. For our own investigations, following their collection, tropical plants have been subjected to solvent extraction and biological evaluation for their antitumor potential. Several examples of purified plant lead bioactive compounds were obtained and characterized, and found to exhibit diverse structures, including those of the alkaloid, cardiac glycoside, coumarin, cucurbitacin, cyclobenzofuran (rocaglate), flavonoid, lignan, and terpenoid types. In order to maximize the efficiency of work on drug discovery from tropical plant species, strategies to optimize various research components have been developed, including those for the plant collections and taxonomic identification, in accordance with the requirements of contemporary international treaties and with a focus on species conservation. A major component of this aspect of the work is the development of collaborative research agreements with representatives of the source countries of tropical rainforest plants. The phytochemical aspects have included the preparation of plant extracts for initial screening and the selection of promising extracts for activity-guided fractionation. In an attempt to facilitate this process, a TOCSY-based NMR procedure has been applied for the determination of bioactive rocaglate derivatives in samples of Aglaia species (Meliaceae) collected for the project. Preliminary in vitro and in vivo mechanistic studies carried out by the authors are described for two tropical plant-derived bioactive lead compounds, corchorusoside C and (+)-betulin, including work conducted with a zebrafish (Danio rerio) model. In the concluding remarks, a number of lessons are summarized that our group has learned as a result of working on anticancer drug discovery using tropical plants, which we hope will be of interest to future workers.

Attenuative effect of astilbin on polystyrene microplastics induced testicular damage: Biochemical, spermatological and histopathological-based evidences

Polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) are the potential environmental pollutants that possess the ability to induce testicular damage. Astilbin (ASB) is a dihydroflavonol, abundantly reported in multiple plants that has various pharmacological properties. This research elucidated the mitigative potential of ASB against PS-MPs-instigated testicular toxicity. 48 adult male rats (200 ± 10 g) were distributed into 4 groups (n = 12): control, PS-MPs received (0.01 mg/kg), PS-MPs + ASB received (0.01 mg/kg + 20 mg/kg) and ASB supplemented group (20 mg/kg). After 56th day of the trial, animals were sacrificed and testes were harvested for the estimation of biochemical, hormonal, spermatogenic, steroidogenic, apoptotic and histological profiles. PS-MPs intoxication significantly (P < 0.05) lowered glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reductase (GSR) as well as catalase (CAT) activities, whereas elevated MDA as well as ROS levels. Besides, the levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) along with cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) activity were raised. PS-MPs treatment reduced luteinizing hormone (LH), plasma testosterone and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) level besides decreased epididymal sperm number, viability, motility as well as the count of HOS coil-tailed spermatozoa and increased sperm morphological irregularities. PS-MPs exposure lowered steroidogenic enzymes (17β-HSD, 3β-HSD and StAR protein along with Bcl-2 expression, besides increasing Caspase-3 and Bax expressions and histopathological alterations in testicular tissues. However, ASB treatment significantly reversed PS-MPs mediated damage. In conclusion, ASB administration is protective against PS-MPs-instigated testicular damage owing to its anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, antioxidant and androgenic nature.

Active Ingredients from Chinese Medicine for Combination Cancer Therapy

Combination therapy against cancer has gained increasing attention because it can help to target multiple pathways to tackle oncologic progression and improve the limited antitumor effect of single-agent therapy. Chinese medicine has been studied extensively in cancer therapy and proven to be efficacious in many cases due to its wide spectrum of anticancer activities. In this review, we aim to summarize the recent progress of active ingredients from Chinese medicine (AIFCM) in combination with various cancer therapeutic modalities, including chemotherapy, gene therapy, radiotherapy, phototherapy and immunotherapy. In addition to highlighting the potential contribution of AIFCM in combination cancer therapy, we also elucidate the underlying mechanisms behind their synergistic effect and improved anticancer efficacy, thereby encouraging the inclusion of these AIFCM as part of effective armamentarium in fighting intractable cancers. Finally, we present the challenges and future perspectives of AIFCM combination therapy as a feasible and promising strategy for the optimization of cancer treatment and better clinical outcomes.

Application of natural polysaccharides and their novel dosage forms in gynecological cancers: therapeutic implications from the diversity potential of natural compounds

Cancer is one of the most lethal diseases. Globally, the number of cancers is nearly 10 million per year. Gynecological cancers (for instance, ovarian, cervical, and endometrial), relying on hidden diseases, misdiagnoses, and high recurrence rates, have seriously affected women's health. Traditional chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy effectively improve the prognosis of gynecological cancer patients. However, with the emergence of adverse reactions and drug resistance, leading to the occurrence of complications and poor compliance of patients, we have to focus on the new treatment direction of gynecological cancers. Because of the potential effects of natural drugs in regulating immune function, protecting against oxidative damage, and improving the energy metabolism of the body, natural compounds represented by polysaccharides have also attracted extensive attention in recent years. More and more studies have shown that polysaccharides are effective in the treatment of various tumors and in reducing the burden of metastasis. In this review, we focus on the positive role of natural polysaccharides in the treatment of gynecologic cancer, the molecular mechanisms, and the available evidence, and discuss the potential use of new dosage forms derived from polysaccharides in gynecologic cancer. This study covers the most comprehensive discussion on applying natural polysaccharides and their novel preparations in gynecological cancers. By providing complete and valuable sources of information, we hope to promote more effective treatment solutions for clinical diagnosis and treatment of gynecological cancers.

Mitochondrial Bcl-xL promotes brain synaptogenesis by controlling non-lethal caspase activation

Non-lethal caspase activation (NLCA) has been linked to neurodevelopmental processes. However, how neurons control NLCA remains elusive. Here, we focused on Bcl-xL, a Bcl-2 homolog regulating caspase activation through the mitochondria. We generated a mouse model, referred to as ER-xL, in which Bcl-xL is absent in the mitochondria, yet present in the endoplasmic reticulum. Unlike bclx knockout mice that died at E13.5, ER-xL mice survived embryonic development but died post-partum because of altered feeding behavior. Enhanced caspase-3 activity was observed in the brain and the spinal cord white matter, but not the gray matter. No increase in cell death was observed in ER-xL cortical neurons, suggesting that the observed caspase-3 activation was apoptosis-independent. ER-xL neurons displayed increased caspase-3 activity in the neurites, resulting in impaired axon arborescence and synaptogenesis. Together, our findings suggest that mitochondrial Bcl-xL finely tunes caspase-3 through Drp-1-dependent mitochondrial fission, which is critical to neural network design.

Pharmacological inhibition of BCL-2 with the FDA-approved drug venetoclax impairs longitudinal bone growth

Treatment-related skeletal complications are common in childhood cancer patients and survivors. Venetoclax is a BCL-2 inhibitor that has shown efficacy in hematological malignancies in adults and is being investigated in pediatric cancer clinical trials as a promising therapeutic modality. Venetoclax triggers cell death in cancer cells, but whether it exerts similar effects in normal bone cells, is unknown. Chondrogenic ATDC5 cells, E20 fetal rat metatarsal bones, and human growth plate biopsies were treated with different concentrations of venetoclax. Female NMRI nu/nu mice were treated with venetoclax or vehicle for 15 days. Mice were X-rayed at baseline and at the end of the experiment to assess longitudinal bone growth and body weight was monitored throughout the study. Histomorphometric and immunohistochemical analyses were performed to evaluate treatment effects on the growth plate cartilage. Venetoclax decreased the viability of chondrocytes and impaired the growth of ex vivo cultured metatarsals while reducing the height of the resting/proliferative zone and the hypertrophic cell size. When tested in vivo, venetoclax suppressed bone growth and reduced growth plate height. Our experimental data suggest that venetoclax directly targets growth plate chondrocytes suppressing bone growth and we, therefore, encourage careful monitoring of longitudinal bone growth if treating growing children with venetoclax.

Bensulide-induced oxidative stress causes developmental defects of cardiovascular system and liver in zebrafish (Danio rerio)

Bensulide is an organophosphate herbicide commonly used in agricultural crops; however, no studies have reported on its toxic effects in the embryonic development of vertebrates, particularly gene expression level and cellular response. Therefore, to identify developmental toxicity, zebrafish eggs 8 h post-fertilization (hpf) were exposed to bensulide concentrations of up to 3 mg/L. The results indicated that exposure to 3 mg/L bensulide inhibited the hatching of all eggs and decreased the size of the body, eyes, and inner ear. There were demonstrated effects observed in the cardiovascular system and liver caused by bensulide in fli1:eGFP and L-fabp:dsRed transgenic zebrafish models, respectively. Following exposure to 3 mg/L bensulide, normal heart development, including cardiac looping, was disrupted and the heart rate of 96 hpf zebrafish larvae decreased to 16.37%. Development of the liver, the main detoxification organ, was also inhibited by bensulide, and after exposure to 3 mg/L bensulide its size reduced to 41.98%. Additionally, exposure to bensulide resulted in inhibition of antioxidant enzyme expression and an increase in ROS levels by up to 238.29%. Collectively, we identified various biological responses associated with the toxicity of bensulide, which led to various organ malformations and cytotoxic effects in zebrafish.

Cellular mechanisms and clinical applications for phenocopies of inborn errors of immunity: infectious susceptibility due to cytokine autoantibodies

INTRODUCTION

With a growing knowledge of Inborn error immunity (IEI), immunological profiling and genetic predisposition to IEI phenocopies have been developed in recent years.

AREAS COVERED

Here we summarized the correlation between various pathogen invasions, autoantibody profiles, and corresponding clinical features in the context of patients with IEI phenocopies. It has been extensively evident that patients with anti-cytokine autoantibodies underly impaired anti-pathogen immune responses and lead to broad unregulated inflammation and tissue damage. Several hypotheses of anti-cytokine autoantibodies production were summarized here, including a defective negative selection of autoreactive T cells, abnormal germinal center formation, molecular mimicry, HLA class II allele region, lack of auto-reactive lymphocyte apoptosis, and other possible hypotheses.

EXPERT OPINION

Phenocopies of IEI associated with anti-cytokine autoantibodies are increasingly recognized as one of the causes of acquired immunodeficiency and susceptibility to certain pathogen infections, especially facing the current challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic. By investigating clinical, genetic, and pathogenesis autoantibodies profiles associated with various pathogens' susceptibilities, we could better understand the IEI phenocopies with anti-cytokine autoantibodies, especially for those that underlie life-threatening SARS-CoV-2.

Therapeutic targeting of anoikis resistance in cutaneous melanoma metastasis

The acquisition of resistance to anoikis, the cell death induced by loss of adhesion to the extracellular matrix, is an absolute requirement for the survival of disseminating and circulating tumour cells (CTCs), and for the seeding of metastatic lesions. In melanoma, a range of intracellular signalling cascades have been identified as potential drivers of anoikis resistance, however a full understanding of the process is yet to be attained. Mechanisms of anoikis resistance pose an attractive target for the therapeutic treatment of disseminating and circulating melanoma cells. This review explores the range of small molecule, peptide and antibody inhibitors targeting molecules involved in anoikis resistance in melanoma, and may be repurposed to prevent metastatic melanoma prior to its initiation, potentially improving the prognosis for patients.

Stimuli-responsive heparin-drug conjugates co-assembled into stable nanomedicines for cancer therapy

The combination of chemotherapy and photodynamic therapy (PDT) has the potential to complement single-drug therapies, but chemotherapeutic agents and photosensitizers often have compromised therapeutic efficacies and strong toxic effects. In this study, we exploited nanotechnology to address this challenge by utilizing heparin as a carrier for co-delivery of chemotherapeutic drugs and photosensitizers for synergistic cancer therapy. Specifically, heparin-paclitaxel (HP-PTX) and heparin-pyropheophorbide-a (HP-Ppa) were synthesized by attaching paclitaxel (PTX), a small molecular chemotherapeutic drug, through a reactive oxygen species (ROS)-responsive linker and Ppa, a photosensitizer, to heparin, respectively. Two conjugates co-assembled into a nanomedicine, HP-PP nanoparticles (NPs), for controllable co-delivery of Ppa and PTX into tumor cells. HP-PP NPs significantly enhanced the in vitro stability of HP-Ppa and the photostability of Ppa, and the synergistic actions of chemotherapy and PDT were confirmed from both in vitro and in vivo antitumor studies. Notably, HP-PP NPs enhanced tumor accumulation of Ppa up to 11-fold and the treatment of 4T1 tumor-bearing mice with HP-PP NPs resulted in a tumor growth inhibition of 98.1% without systemic toxicity. The strategy of co-assembly of heparin conjugates may offer great potential in enhancing the efficacy of combination therapy. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: : We proposed a nano-delivery system, HP-PP NPs, which was constructed by co-assembly of heparin-paclitaxel (HP-PTX) and heparin-pyropheophorbide-a (HP-Ppa), to co-deliver PTX and Ppa for synergistic cancer therapy. HP-PP NPs enhanced the photostability and the in vitro stability of Ppa and HP-Ppa, and induced greater cytotoxicity than HP-PTX NPs or HP-Ppa NPs. This co-delivery system displays enhanced tumor accumulation and has a remarkable synergistic antitumor effect with a tumor growth inhibition of 98.1%.

Erythroid/megakaryocytic differentiation confers BCL-XL dependency and venetoclax resistance in acute myeloid leukemia

Myeloid neoplasms with erythroid or megakaryocytic differentiation include pure erythroid leukemia, myelodysplastic syndrome with erythroid features, and acute megakaryoblastic leukemia (FAB M7) and are characterized by poor prognosis and limited treatment options. Here, we investigate the drug sensitivity landscape of these rare malignancies. We show that acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cells with erythroid or megakaryocytic differentiation depend on the antiapoptotic protein B-cell lymphoma (BCL)-XL, rather than BCL-2, using combined ex vivo drug sensitivity testing, genetic perturbation, and transcriptomic profiling. High-throughput screening of >500 compounds identified the BCL-XL-selective inhibitor A-1331852 and navitoclax as highly effective against erythroid/megakaryoblastic leukemia cell lines. In contrast, these AML subtypes were resistant to the BCL-2 inhibitor venetoclax, which is used clinically in the treatment of AML. Consistently, genome-scale CRISPR-Cas9 and RNAi screening data demonstrated the striking essentiality of BCL-XL-encoding BCL2L1 but not BCL2 or MCL1, for the survival of erythroid/megakaryoblastic leukemia cell lines. Single-cell and bulk transcriptomics of patient samples with erythroid and megakaryoblastic leukemias identified high BCL2L1 expression compared with other subtypes of AML and other hematological malignancies, where BCL2 and MCL1 were more prominent. BCL-XL inhibition effectively killed blasts in samples from patients with AML with erythroid or megakaryocytic differentiation ex vivo and reduced tumor burden in a mouse erythroleukemia xenograft model. Combining the BCL-XL inhibitor with the JAK inhibitor ruxolitinib showed synergistic and durable responses in cell lines. Our results suggest targeting BCL-XL as a potential therapy option in erythroid/megakaryoblastic leukemias and highlight an AML subgroup with potentially reduced sensitivity to venetoclax-based treatments.

miR-126 mitigates the osteogenic differentiation of human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells by targeting the ERK1/2 and Bcl-2 pathways

Human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMMSCs) are a promising cell source for bone engineering owing to their high potential to differentiate into osteoblasts. The objective of the present study is to assess microRNA-126 (miR-126) and examine its effects on the osteogenic differentiation of hBMMSCs. In this study, we investigate the role of miR-126 in the progression of osteogenic differentiation (OD) as well as the apoptosis and inflammation of hBMMSCs during OD induction. OD is induced in hBMMSCs, and matrix mineralization along with other OD-associated markers are evaluated by Alizarin Red S (AR) staining and quantitative PCR (qPCR). Gain- and loss-of-function studies are performed to demonstrate the role of miR-126 in the OD of hBMMSCs. Flow cytometry and qPCR-based cytokine expression studies are performed to investigate the effect of miR-126 on the apoptosis and inflammation of hBMMSCs. The results indicate that miR-126 expression is downregulated during the OD of hBMMSCs. Gain- and loss-of function assays reveal that miR-126 upregulation inhibits the differentiation of hBMMSCs into osteoblasts, whereas the downregulation of miR-126 promotes hBMMSC differentiation, as assessed by the determination of osteogenic genes and alkaline phosphatase activity. Furthermore, the miR-126 level is positively correlated with the production of inflammatory cytokines and apoptotic cell death. Additionally, our results suggest that miR-126 negatively regulates not only B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) expression but also the phosphorylation of extracellular signal‑regulated protein kinase (ERK) 1/2. Moreover, restoring ERK1/2 activity and upregulating Bcl-2 expression counteract the miR-126-mediated suppression of OD in hBMMSCs by promoting inflammation and apoptosis, respectively. Overall, our findings suggest a novel molecular mechanism relevant to the differentiation of hBMMSCs into osteoblasts, which can potentially facilitate bone formation by counteracting miR-126-mediated suppression of ERK1/2 activity and Bcl-2 expression.

Detoxification mechanisms of ginseng to aconite: A review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Aconite (Fuzi, FZ), the processed root tuber of Aconitum carmichaelii Debx., is utilized as a classic medicine to treat diseases of the cardiovascular system and immune system. Resulting from the narrow margin of safety between a therapeutic dose and a toxic dose, FZ often causes cardiotoxicity including hypotension, palpitation, and bradycardia. Contributing to the detoxification effects of the other famous herbal medicine ginseng (Renshen, RS), which is the dried root and rhizome of Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer, people broadly combine FZ and RS as compatibility more than 1800 years to attenuate the toxicity of FZ. However, the systematic detoxification mechanisms of RS to FZ have not been fully revealed.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

Aiming to provide a comprehensive interpretation of the attenuation processes of FZ via RS, this review summarizes the up-to-date information about regulatory mechanisms of RS to FZ to shed the light on the essence of detoxification.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Literature was searched in electronic databases, including PubMed, Web of Science ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, CNKI and WanFang Data. Relevant studies on detoxification mechanisms were included while irrelevant and duplicate studies were excluded. According to the study design, subject, intervention regime, outcome, first author and year of publication of included data, detoxification mechanisms of RS to FZ were summarized and visualized.

RESULTS

A total of 144 studies were identified through databases from their inception up to Oct. 2022. Included information indicated that diester-diterpenoid alkaloids (DDAs) were the main toxic substances of FZ. The main mechanisms that RS attenuates the toxicity of FZ were transforming toxic compounds of FZ, affecting the absorption and metabolism of FZ as well as the FZ-induced cell toxicity alleviation.

CONCLUSION

FZ, as a famous traditional Chinese medicine, has good prospects for utilization. The narrow margin of safety between a therapeutic dose and a toxic dose of FZ limits its clinical effect and safety while RS is always combined with FZ to alleviate its toxicity. However, mechanisms responsible for the detoxification process have not been well identified. Therefore, detoxification mechanisms of RS to FZ are reviewed to ensure the safety and effectiveness of FZ.

Preventive effect of quercetin-Loaded nanophytosome against autistic-like damage in maternal separation model: The possible role of Caspase-3, Bax/Bcl-2 and Nrf2

The autism is an abnormality in the neuronal advance which starts before age 3 recognized by defective behaviors. This study aimed to make quercetin-loaded nanophytosomes (QNP) on behavioral deficits, cerebellar oxidative stress and apoptosis in an autistic-like model caused by maternal separation (MS). The newborn rats are randomly categorized into seven groups, including control, positive control, disease, and diseases treated with quercetin (10 and 40 mg/kg) and QNP (10 and 40 mg/kg). Pups exposed to MS for 3 h per day from postnatal days (PND) 1-9 showed behavioral impairment in adult rats compared to control group. The oral administration of quercetin and QNP was constantly started after the lactation period (21 postnatal days) for three weeks. Autistic-like behaviors, antioxidant parameters, and Nrf2, Bax/Bcl-2, and Caspase-3 expressions were surveyed in the cerebellum. Quercetin (40 mg/kg) treated improved some behavioral disorders. Also, the improvement of oxidative stress parameters, Nrf2 and apoptotic factors gene expression was observed in the cerebellum of quercetin (40 mg/kg) treated (p < 0.01). QNP treatment (10 and 40 mg/kg) significantly ameliorated anxiety-like behaviors, line crossing, and grooming index (p < 0.001), lipid peroxidation (p < 0.001), and increased catalase (CAT) (p < 0.001), superoxide dismutase (SOD) (p < 0.001), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) (p < 0.001) activity, and glutathione (GSH) levels (p < 0.05). Moreover, QNP significantly reduced Caspase-3 and Bax expression (p < 0.001), but increased Bcl-2, and Nrf2 expressions (p < 0.001). These findings indicated that QNP due to its high bioavailability was more effective than quercetin can be reduced autistic-like behavior, oxidative and apoptotic damages in the model of MS rats.

Nigericin treatment activates endoplasmic reticulum apoptosis pathway in goldfish kidney leukocytes

Nigericin has been reported to induce apoptosis and pyroptosis in mammalian models. However, the effects and mechanism underlying the immune responses of teleost HKLs induced by nigericin remain enigmatic. To decipher the mechanism after nigericin treatment, the transcriptomic profile of goldfish HKLs was analyzed. The results demonstrated that a total of 465 differently expressed genes (DEGs) with 275 up-regulated and 190 down-regulated genes were identified between the control and nigericin treated groups. Among them, the top 20 DEG KEGG enrichment pathways were observed including apoptosis pathways. In addition, the expression level of selected genes (ADP4, ADP5, IRE1, MARCC, ALR1, DDX58) by quantitative real-time PCR showed a significant change after treatment with nigericin, which was generally identical to the expression patterns of the transcriptomic data. Furthermore, the treatment could induce cell death of HKLs, which was confirmed by LDH release and annexin V-FITC/PI assays. Taken together, our results support the idea that nigericin treatment might activate the IRE1-JNK apoptosis pathway in goldfish HKLs, which will provide insights into the mechanisms underlying HKLs immunity towards apoptosis or pyroptosis regulation in teleosts.

Effect of UV Stress on the Structure and Function of Pro-apoptotic Bid and Anti-apoptotic Bcl-xl proteins

Ultraviolet C (UV-C) radiation induces apoptosis in mammalian cells via the mitochondrion-mediated pathway. The Bcl-2 family of proteins are the regulators of the mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis and appears responsive to UV-C radiation. It is unknown how the structure and, effectively, the function of these proteins are directly impacted by UV-C exposure. Here, we present the effect of UV-C irradiation on the structure and function of pro-apoptotic Bid-FL and anti-apoptotic Bcl-xlΔC proteins. Using a variety of biophysical tools, we show that, following UV-C irradiation, the structures of Bcl-xlΔC and Bid-FL are irreversibly altered. Bcl-xLΔC is found to be more sensitive to UV stress than Bid-FL Interestingly, UV-C exposure shows dramatic chemical shift perturbations in consequence of dramatic structural perturbations (α-helix to β-sheet) in the BH3- binding region, a crucial segment of Bcl-xlΔC. Furter it has been shown that UV-exposed Bcl-xlΔC has reduced efficacy of its interactions with pro-apoptotic tBid.

Plant-derived natural products and combination therapy in liver cancer

Liver cancer is one of the malignant cancers globally and seriously endangers human health because of its high morbidity and mortality. Plant-derived natural products have been evaluated as potential anticancer drugs due to low side effects and high anti-tumor efficacy. However, plant-derived natural products also have defects of poor solubility and cumbersome extraction process. In recent years, a growing numbers of plant derived natural products have been used in combination therapy of liver cancer with conventional chemotherapeutic agents, which has improved clinical efficacy through multiple mechanisms, including inhibition of tumor growth, induction of apoptosis, suppression of angiogenesis, enhancement of immunity, reversal of multiple drug resistance and reduction of side effects. The therapeutic effects and mechanisms of plant-derived natural products and combination therapy on liver cancer are reviewed to provide references for developing anti-liver-cancer strategies with high efficacy and low side effects.

An Integrative Pharmacology-Based Strategy to Uncover the Mechanism of Zuogui Jiangtang Shuxin Formula in Diabetic Cardiomyopathy

Purpose

This study aimed to explore the mechanism of Zuogui Jiangtang Shuxin formula (ZGJTSXF) in the treatment of diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) by an integrative strategy combining serum pharmacochemistry, network pharmacology analysis, and experimental validation.

Methods

An Ultra high performance liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-Exactive-Orbitrap-MS) method was constructed to identify compounds in rat serum after oral administration of ZGJTSXF. A component-target network between the targets of ZGJTSXF ingredients and DCM was established using Cytoscape. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analyses were performed to deduce ZGJTSXF-associated targets and pathways. The DCM model mice were treated with ZGJTSXF, and the predicted important signaling pathways were verified using quantitative PCR and Western blot.

Results

We identified 78 compounds in serum of medicated rats, which mainly included flavonoids, small peptides, nucleosides, organic acids, phenylpropanoids, alkaloids, phenanthrenequinones, iridoids, phenols, and saponins. Network pharmacology analysis revealed that ZGJTSXF may regulate targets including ALB, TNF, AKT1, GAPDH, VEGFA, EGFR, SRC, CASP3, MAPK3, JUN, and PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in the treatment of DCM. ZGJTSXF administration improved blood sugar levels, heart function, and cardiac morphological changes in DCM mice. Notably, ZGJTSXF inhibited cardiomyocytes apoptosis, which was associated with restored PI3K/Akt signaling and upregulated Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL proteins expression.

Conclusion

Our preliminary results proposed the material basis and possible mechanisms of ZGJTSXF in treating DCM, which is related to the activation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and apoptosis inhibition. These findings shed new light in developing ZGJTSXF-based therapeutics in treating DCM.

Bone marrow microenvironment- induced regulation of Bcl-2 family members in multiple myeloma (MM): Therapeutic implications

In Multiple Myeloma (MM) the finely tuned homeostasis of the bone marrow (BM) microenvironment is disrupted. Evasion of programmed cell death (apoptosis) represents a hallmark of cancer. Besides genetic aberrations, the supportive and protective MM BM milieu, which is constituted by cytokines and growth factors, intercellular and cell: extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions and exosomes, in particular, plays a key role in the abundance of pro-survival members of the Bcl-2 family (i.e., Mcl-1, Bcl-2, and Bcl-xL) in tumor cells. Moreover, microenvironmental cues have also an impact on stability- regulating post-translational modifications of anti-apoptotic proteins including de/phosphorylation, polyubiquitination; on their intracellular binding affinities, and localization. Advances of our molecular knowledge on the escape of cancer cells from apoptosis have informed the development of a new class of small molecules that mimic the action of BH3-only proteins. Indeed, approaches to directly target anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family members are among today's most promising therapeutic strategies and BH3-mimetics (i.e., venetoclax) are currently revolutionizing not only the treatment of CLL and AML, but also hold great therapeutic promise in MM. Furthermore, approaches that activate apoptotic pathways indirectly via modification of the tumor microenvironment have already entered clinical practice. The present review article will summarize our up-to-date knowledge on molecular mechanisms by which the MM BM microenvironment, cytokines, and growth factors in particular, mediates tumor cell evasion from apoptosis. Moreover, it will discuss some of the most promising science- derived therapeutic strategies to overcome Bcl-2- mediated tumor cell survival in order to further improve MM patient outcome.

BCL-2 protein family: attractive targets for cancer therapy

Acquired resistance to cell death is a hallmark of cancer. The BCL-2 protein family members play important roles in controlling apoptotic cell death. Abnormal over-expression of pro-survival BCL-2 family members or abnormal reduction of pro-apoptotic BCL-2 family proteins, both resulting in the inhibition of apoptosis, are frequently detected in diverse malignancies. The critical role of the pro-survival and pro-apoptotic BCL-2 family proteins in the regulation of apoptosis makes them attractive targets for the development of agents for the treatment of cancer. This review describes the roles of the various pro-survival and pro-apoptotic members of the BCL-2 protein family in normal development and organismal function and how defects in the control of apoptosis promote the development and therapy resistance of cancer. Finally, we discuss the development of inhibitors of pro-survival BCL-2 proteins, termed BH3-mimetic drugs, as novel agents for cancer therapy.

PIWIL2 Regulates the Proliferation, Apoptosis and Colony Formation of Colorectal Cancer Cell Line

Background

Tumor cells proliferation and apoptosis inhibition are the mechanisms through which the Colorectal Cancer (CRC) progression, metastasis and chemoresistance are promoted pathologically, offering clinical advantages for characterizing their molecular regulators.

Objectives

In this study, to unravel the role of PIWIL2 as a potential CRC oncogenic regulator, we examined the effect of its overexpression on proliferation, apoptosis and colony formation of SW480 colon cancer cell line.

Material and Methods

Established SW480-P (overexpression of PIWIL2) and SW480-control (SW480-empty vector) cell lines were cultured in DMEM containing 10% FBS with 1% penicillin-streptomycin. The total DNA and RNA was extracted for further experiments. Real-Time PCR and western blotting assay were performed to measure the differential expression of proliferation associated genes including the expression of cell cycle and anti-apoptotic genes as well as Ki-67 and PIWIL2 in both cell lines. Cell proliferation was determined using MTT assay, doubling time assay and the colony formation rate of transfected cells was measured with the 2D colony formation assay.

Results

At the molecular level, PIWIL2 overexpression was associated with significant up-regulation of cyclin D1, STAT3, BCL2-L1, BCL2-L2 and Ki-67 genes. MTT and doubling time assay showed that PIWIL2 expression induced time-related effects on proliferation rate of SW480 cells. Moreover, SW480-P cells had markedly greater capacity to form colonies.

Conclusions

PIWIL2 plays important roles to promote cancer cell proliferation and colonization via the cell cycle acceleration and inhibition of apoptosis, the mechanisms through which this gene seems to contribute to CRC development, metastasis and chemoresistance, hence potentially highlighting PIWIL2 targeted therapy as a valuable tool for CRC treatment.

Silk fibroin microgels as a platform for cell microencapsulation

Cell microencapsulation has been utilized for years as a means of cell shielding from the external environment while facilitating the transport of gases, general metabolites, and secretory bioactive molecules at once. In this light, hydrogels may support the structural integrity and functionality of encapsulated biologics whereas ensuring cell viability and function and releasing potential therapeutic factors once in situ. In this work, we describe a straightforward strategy to fabricate silk fibroin (SF) microgels (µgels) and encapsulate cells into them. SF µgels (size ≈ 200 µm) were obtained through ultrasonication-induced gelation of SF in a water-oil emulsion phase. A thorough physicochemical (SEM analysis, and FT-IR) and mechanical (microindentation tests) characterization of SF µgels were carried out to assess their nanostructure, porosity, and stiffness. SF µgels were used to encapsulate and culture L929 and primary myoblasts. Interestingly, SF µgels showed a selective release of relatively small proteins (e.g., VEGF, molecular weight, M_W = 40 kDa) by the encapsulated primary myoblasts, while bigger (macro)molecules (M_W = 160 kDa) were hampered to diffusing through the µgels. This article provided the groundwork to expand the use of SF hydrogels into a versatile platform for encapsulating relevant cells able to release paracrine factors potentially regulating tissue and/or organ functions, thus promoting their regeneration.

Bioinformatic Analysis of the BCL-xL/BCL2L1 Interactome in Patients with Pancreatic Cancer

Objectives: The aim of the present study was to analyze the differential gene expression of BCL-xL/BCL2L and the associated genetic, molecular, and biologic functions in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) by employing advanced bioinformatics to investigate potential candidate genes implicated in the pathogenesis of PDAC. Materials and Methods: Bioinformatic techniques were employed to build the gene network of BCL-xL, to assess the translational profile of BCL-xL in PDAC, assess its role in predicting PDAC, and investigate the associated biologic functions and the regulating miRNA families. Results: Microarray data extracted from one dataset was incorporated, including 130 samples (PDAC: 69; Control: 61). In addition, the expression level of BCL-xL was higher in PDAC compared to control samples (p < 0.001). Furthermore, BCL-xL demonstrated excellent discrimination (AUC: 0.83 [95% Confidence Intervals: 0.76, 0.90]; p < 0.001) and calibration (R squared: 0.31) traits for PDAC. A gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) demonstrated the molecular functions and miRNA families (hsa-miR-4804-5p, hsa-miR-4776-5p, hsa-miR-6770-3p, hsa-miR-3619-3p, and hsa-miR-7152-3p) related to BCL-xL. Conclusions: The current findings unveil the biological implications of BCL-xL in PDAC and the related molecular functions and miRNA families.