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Shen N, Kong L, Wang X, Zhang Y, Li R, Tao C, Wang G, Xu P, Hu W. Elabela ameliorates neuronal pyroptosis and mitochondrial fission via APJ/ZBP1 signaling in ischemic stroke. Exp Neurol 2024; 378:114802. [PMID: 38679280 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2024.114802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Pyroptosis signifies a significant form of programmed neuronal demise subsequent to ischemic stroke. In our prior investigations, we demonstrated that the Elabela (ELA)-Apelin receptor (APJ) axis alleviated neuronal death by improving collateral circulation and mitigating ferroptosis in a murine model of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). However, the connection between ELA and neuronal pyroptosis remains further elucidation. Here, we observed an upregulation of ELA and APJ expression in both murine brain specimens and cultured HT-22 hippocampal neurons exposed to experimental ischemic stroke. ELA administration markedly diminished the infarct size in comparison to controls. ELA treatment ameliorated neurological deficits and anxiety-like symptoms in mice with stroke, concurrently inhibiting pyroptosis and mitochondria fission in neurons. Conversely, ELA knockdown yielded the opposite effects. Utilizing RNA-sequencing analysis, we identified a candidate for pyroptosis priming, Z-DNA-binding protein 1 (ZBP1), which was suppressed in ELA-treated HT-22 neurons during oxygen-glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R). Subsequent co-immunoprecipitation analyses demonstrated the binding between APJ and ZBP1. Specifically, APJ suppressed ZBP1 to inhibit NLRP3 inflammasome activation and dynamin-related protein 1-mediated mitochondrial fission in neurons. In summary, our findings suggest that ELA functions as a stroke-induced signal limiting neuronal pyroptosis and mitochondrial fission via APJ/ZBP1 signaling, thereby underscoring ELA as a potential therapeutic target for ischemic stroke treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Shen
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China
| | - Lingqi Kong
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China
| | - Xinyue Wang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China
| | - Rui Li
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China
| | - Chunrong Tao
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China
| | - Guoping Wang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China
| | - Pengfei Xu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China.
| | - Wei Hu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China.
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2
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Mohammed SM, Al-Saedi HFS, Mohammed AQ, Amir AA, Radi UK, Sattar R, Ahmad I, Ramadan MF, Alshahrani MY, Balasim HM, Alawadi A. Mechanisms of Bleomycin-induced Lung Fibrosis: A Review of Therapeutic Targets and Approaches. Cell Biochem Biophys 2024:10.1007/s12013-024-01384-9. [PMID: 38955925 DOI: 10.1007/s12013-024-01384-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
Pulmonary toxicity is a serious side effect of some specific anticancer drugs. Bleomycin is a well-known anticancer drug that triggers severe reactions in the lungs. It is an approved drug that may be prescribed for the treatment of testicular cancers, Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's lymphomas, ovarian cancer, head and neck cancers, and cervical cancer. A large number of experimental studies and clinical findings show that bleomycin can concentrate in lung tissue, leading to massive oxidative stress, alveolar epithelial cell death, the proliferation of fibroblasts, and finally the infiltration of immune cells. Chronic release of pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic molecules by immune cells and fibroblasts leads to pneumonitis and fibrosis. Both fibrosis and pneumonitis are serious concerns for patients who receive bleomycin and may lead to death. Therefore, the management of lung toxicity following cancer therapy with bleomycin is a critical issue. This review explains the cellular and molecular mechanisms of pulmonary injury following treatment with bleomycin. Furthermore, we review therapeutic targets and possible promising strategies for ameliorating bleomycin-induced lung injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaimaa M Mohammed
- Department of Pharmacy, Al- Mustaqbal University College, 51001, Hilla, Babylon, Iraq
| | | | | | - Ahmed Ali Amir
- Department of Medical Laboratories Technology, Al-Nisour University College, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Usama Kadem Radi
- College of Pharmacy, National University of Science and Technology, Nasiriyah, Dhi Qar, Iraq
| | - Ruaa Sattar
- Al-Hadi University College, Baghdad, 10011, Iraq
| | - Irfan Ahmad
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Mohammad Y Alshahrani
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Halah Majeed Balasim
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technologies, Al Rafidain University College, Bagdad, Iraq
| | - Ahmed Alawadi
- College of technical engineering, the Islamic University, Najaf, Iraq
- College of technical engineering, the Islamic University of Al Diwaniyah, Al Diwaniyah, Iraq
- College of technical engineering, the Islamic University of Babylon, Hilla, Iraq
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3
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Yu T, Gao Q, Zhang G, Li T, Liu X, Li C, Zheng L, Sun X, Wu J, Cao H, Bi F, Wang R, Liang H, Li X, Zhou Y, Lv L, Shan H. lncRNA Gm20257 alleviates pathological cardiac hypertrophy by modulating the PGC-1α-mitochondrial complex IV axis. Front Med 2024:10.1007/s11684-024-1065-7. [PMID: 38926249 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-024-1065-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Pathological cardiac hypertrophy, a major contributor to heart failure, is closely linked to mitochondrial function. The roles of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), which regulate mitochondrial function, remain largely unexplored in this context. Herein, a previously unknown lncRNA, Gm20257, was identified. It markedly increased under hypertrophic stress in vivo and in vitro. The suppression of Gm20257 by using small interfering RNAs significantly induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. Conversely, the overexpression of Gm20257 through plasmid transfection or adeno-associated viral vector-9 mitigated angiotensin II-induced hypertrophic phenotypes in neonatal mouse ventricular cells or alleviated cardiac hypertrophy in a mouse TAC model respectively, thus restoring cardiac function. Importantly, Gm20257 restored mitochondrial complex IV level and enhanced mitochondrial function. Bioinformatics prediction showed that Gm20257 had a high binding score with peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor coactivator-1 (PGC-1α), which could increase mitochondrial complex IV. Subsequently, Western blot analysis results revealed that Gm20257 substantially affected the expression of PGC-1α. Further analyses through RNA immunoprecipitation and immunoblotting following RNA pull-down indicated that PGC-1α was a direct downstream target of Gm20257. This interaction was demonstrated to rescue the reduction of mitochondrial complex IV induced by hypertrophic stress and promote the generation of mitochondrial ATP. These findings suggest that Gm20257 improves mitochondrial function through the PGC-1α-mitochondrial complex IV axis, offering a novel approach for attenuating pathological cardiac hypertrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Yu
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Research Center for Druggability of Cardiovascular Noncoding RNA, Institute for Frontier Medical Technology, Shanghai University of Engineering Science, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Qiang Gao
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Guofang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Frigid Zone Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Tianyu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Frigid Zone Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Xiaoshan Liu
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Research Center for Druggability of Cardiovascular Noncoding RNA, Institute for Frontier Medical Technology, Shanghai University of Engineering Science, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Chao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Frigid Zone Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Lan Zheng
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Xiang Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Frigid Zone Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Jianbo Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Frigid Zone Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Huiying Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Frigid Zone Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Fangfang Bi
- State Key Laboratory of Frigid Zone Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Ruifeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Frigid Zone Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Haihai Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Frigid Zone Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Xuelian Li
- State Key Laboratory of Frigid Zone Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Yuhong Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Frigid Zone Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Lifang Lv
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China.
- The Center of Functional Experiment Teaching, School of Basic Medicine, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China.
| | - Hongli Shan
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Research Center for Druggability of Cardiovascular Noncoding RNA, Institute for Frontier Medical Technology, Shanghai University of Engineering Science, Shanghai, 201620, China.
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Giri A, Mehan S, Khan Z, Das Gupta G, Narula AS, Kalfin R. Modulation of neural circuits by melatonin in neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 397:3867-3895. [PMID: 38225412 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-023-02939-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders are two broad categories of neurological disorders characterized by progressive impairments in movement and cognitive functions within the central and peripheral nervous systems, and have emerged as a significant cause of mortality. Oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and neurotransmitter imbalances are recognized as prominent pathogenic factors contributing to cognitive deficits and neurobehavioral anomalies. Consequently, preventing neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases has surfaced as a pivotal challenge in contemporary public health. This review explores the investigation of neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders using both synthetic and natural bioactive compounds. A central focus lies on melatonin, a neuroregulatory hormone secreted by the pineal gland in response to light-dark cycles. Melatonin, an amphiphilic molecule, assumes multifaceted roles, including scavenging free radicals, modulating energy metabolism, and synchronizing circadian rhythms. Noteworthy for its robust antioxidant and antiapoptotic properties, melatonin exhibits diverse neuroprotective effects. The inherent attributes of melatonin position it as a potential key player in the pathophysiology of neurological disorders. Preclinical and clinical studies have demonstrated melatonin's efficacy in alleviating neuropathological symptoms across neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric conditions (depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and autism spectrum disorder). The documented neuroprotective prowess of melatonin introduces novel therapeutic avenues for addressing neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders. This comprehensive review encompasses many of melatonin's applications in treating diverse brain disorders. Despite the strides made, realizing melatonin's full neuroprotective potential necessitates further rigorous clinical investigations. By unravelling the extended neuroprotective benefits of melatonin, future studies promise to deepen our understanding and augment the therapeutic implications against neurological deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditi Giri
- Division of Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy Moga, Punjab, India
| | - Sidharth Mehan
- Division of Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy Moga, Punjab, India.
- IK Gujral Punjab Technical University, Jalandhar, Punjab, 144603, India.
| | - Zuber Khan
- Division of Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy Moga, Punjab, India
- IK Gujral Punjab Technical University, Jalandhar, Punjab, 144603, India
| | | | - Acharan S Narula
- Narula Research, LLC, 107 Boulder Bluff, Chapel Hill, NC, 27516, USA
| | - Reni Kalfin
- Institute of Neurobiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. G. Bonchev St., Block 23, Sofia, 1113, Bulgaria
- Department of Healthcare, South-West University "NeofitRilski", Ivan Mihailov St. 66, Blagoevgrad, 2700, Bulgaria
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Yin H, Sun Y, Ya B, Guo Y, Zhao H, Zhang L, Wang F, Zhang W, Yang Q. Apelin-13 protects against cisplatin-induced ototoxicity by inhibiting apoptosis and regulating STAT1 and STAT3. Arch Toxicol 2023; 97:2477-2493. [PMID: 37395757 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-023-03544-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
The ototoxic side effect of cisplatin is a main cause of sensorineural hearing loss. This side effect limits the clinical application of cisplatin and affects patients' quality of life. This study was designed to investigate the effect of apelin-13 on cisplatin-induced C57BL/6 mice hearing loss model and explore the potential underlying molecular mechanisms. Mice were intraperitoneally injected with 100 μg/kg apelin-13 2 h before 3 mg/kg cisplatin injection for 7 consecutive days. Cochlear explants cultured in vitro were pretreated with 10 nM apelin-13 2 h prior to 30 μM cisplatin treatment for another 24 h. Hearing test and morphology results showed that apelin-13 attenuated cisplatin-induced mice hearing loss and protected cochlear hair cells and spiral ganglion neurons from damage. In vivo and in vitro experimental results showed that apelin-3 reduced cisplatin-induced apoptosis of hair cells and spiral ganglion neurons. In addition, apelin-3 preserved mitochondrial membrane potential and inhibited ROS production in cultured cochlear explants. Mechanistic studies showed that apelin-3 decreased cisplatin-induced cleaved caspase 3 expression but increased Bcl-2; inhibited the expression of pro-inflammatory factors TNF-a and IL-6; and increased STAT1 phosphorylation but decreased STAT3 phosphorylation. In conclusion, our results indicate that apelin-13 could be a potential otoprotective agent to prevent cisplatin-induced ototoxicity by inhibiting apoptosis, ROS production, TNF-α and IL-6 expression, and regulating phosphorylation of STAT1 and STAT3 transcription factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyan Yin
- Jining Key Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Science, Jining Medical University, No. 133, Hehua Road, Jining, 272067, Shandong, China.
| | - Yinuo Sun
- Jining Key Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Science, Jining Medical University, No. 133, Hehua Road, Jining, 272067, Shandong, China
| | - Bailiu Ya
- Jining Key Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Science, Jining Medical University, No. 133, Hehua Road, Jining, 272067, Shandong, China
| | - Yan Guo
- Jining Key Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Science, Jining Medical University, No. 133, Hehua Road, Jining, 272067, Shandong, China
| | - Hao Zhao
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, People's Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Lili Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Yantai Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264100, Shandong, China
| | - Fan Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Weiwei Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Tengzhou Central People's Hospital, Tengzhou, Shandong, China
| | - Qianqian Yang
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No. 899, Pinghai Road, Suzhou, 215123, Jiangsu, China.
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Verma AK, Singh S, Rizvi SI. Therapeutic potential of melatonin and its derivatives in aging and neurodegenerative diseases. Biogerontology 2023; 24:183-206. [PMID: 36550377 DOI: 10.1007/s10522-022-10006-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Aging is associated with increasing impairments in brain homeostasis and represents the main risk factor across most neurodegenerative disorders. Melatonin, a neuroendocrine hormone that regulates mammalian chronobiology and endocrine functions is well known for its antioxidant potential, exhibiting both cytoprotective and chronobiotic abilities. Age-related decline of melatonin disrupting mitochondrial homeostasis and cytosolic DNA-mediated inflammatory reactions in neurons is a major contributory factor in the emergence of neurological abnormalities. There is scattered literature on the possible use of melatonin against neurodegenerative mechanisms in the aging process and its associated diseases. We have searched PUBMED with many combinations of key words for available literature spanning two decades. Based on the vast number of experimental papers, we hereby review recent advancements concerning the potential impact of melatonin on cellular redox balance and mitochondrial dynamics in the context of neurodegeneration. Next, we discuss a broader explanation of the involvement of disrupted redox homeostasis in the pathophysiology of age-related diseases and its connection to circadian mechanisms. Our effort may result in the discovery of novel therapeutic approaches. Finally, we summarize the current knowledge on molecular and circadian regulatory mechanisms of melatonin to overcome neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Huntington's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, however, these findings need to be confirmed by larger, well-designed clinical trials. This review is also expected to uncover the associated molecular alterations in the aging brain and explain how melatonin-mediated circadian restoration of neuronal homeodynamics may increase healthy lifespan in age-related NDDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avnish Kumar Verma
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Allahabad, Allahabad, 211002, India
| | - Sandeep Singh
- Biological Psychiatry Laboratory, Hadassah Medical Center - Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Syed Ibrahim Rizvi
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Allahabad, Allahabad, 211002, India.
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7
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Liu H, Shi Q, Tang L, Wang H, Wang D. APELIN-13 AMELIORATES LPS-INDUCED ENDOTHELIAL-TO-MESENCHYMAL TRANSITION AND POST-ACUTE LUNG INJURY PULMONARY FIBROSIS BY SUPPRESSING TRANSFORMING GROWTH FACTOR-Β1 SIGNALING. Shock 2023; 59:108-117. [PMID: 36377383 DOI: 10.1097/shk.0000000000002046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT The pathophysiology of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) involves cytokine storms, alveolar-capillary barrier destruction, and fibrotic progression. Pulmonary interstitial fibrosis is an important factor affecting the prognosis of ARDS patients. Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) plays an important role in the development of fibrotic diseases, and the occurrence of EndMT has been observed in experimental models of LPS-induced acute lung injury (ALI). Apelin is an endogenous active polypeptide that plays an important role in maintaining endothelial cell homeostasis and inhibiting fibrotic progression in various diseases. However, whether apelin attenuates EndMT in ALI and post-ALI pulmonary fibrosis remains unclear. We analyzed the serum levels of apelin-13 in patients with sepsis-associated ARDS to examine its possible clinical value. A murine model of LPS-induced pulmonary fibrosis and an LPS-challenged endothelial cell injury model were used to analyze the protective effect and underlying mechanism of apelin-13. Mice were treated with apelin-13 by i.p. injection, and human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells were incubated with apelin-13 in vitro . We found that the circulating apelin-13 levels were significantly elevated in sepsis-associated ARDS patients compared with healthy controls. Our study also confirmed that LPS induced EndMT progression and pulmonary fibrosis, which were characterized by decreased CD31 expression and increased α-smooth muscle actin expression and collagen deposition. LPS also stimulated the production of transforming growth factor β1 and activated the Smad signaling pathway. However, apelin-13 treatment significantly attenuated these changes. Our findings suggest that apelin-13 may be a novel biomarker in patients with sepsis-associated ARDS. These results demonstrate that apelin-13 ameliorates LPS-induced EndMT and post-ALI pulmonary fibrosis by suppressing transforming growth factor β1 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huang Liu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Potential Therapeutic Approach of Melatonin against Omicron and Some Other Variants of SARS-CoV-2. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27206934. [PMID: 36296527 PMCID: PMC9609612 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27206934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The Omicron variant (B.529) of COVID-19 caused disease outbreaks worldwide because of its contagious and diverse mutations. To reduce these outbreaks, therapeutic drugs and adjuvant vaccines have been applied for the treatment of the disease. However, these drugs have not shown high efficacy in reducing COVID-19 severity, and even antiviral drugs have not shown to be effective. Researchers thus continue to search for an effective adjuvant therapy with a combination of drugs or vaccines to treat COVID-19 disease. We were motivated to consider melatonin as a defensive agent against SARS-CoV-2 because of its various unique properties. Over 200 scientific publications have shown the significant effects of melatonin in treating diseases, with strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. Melatonin has a high safety profile, but it needs further clinical trials and experiments for use as a therapeutic agent against the Omicron variant of COVID-19. It might immediately be able to prevent the development of severe symptoms caused by the coronavirus and can reduce the severity of the infection by improving immunity.
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Melatonin antagonizes ovarian aging via YTHDF2-MAPK-NF-κB pathway. Genes Dis 2022; 9:494-509. [PMID: 35224163 PMCID: PMC8843885 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2020.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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Shchetinin E, Baturin V, Arushanyan E, Bolatchiev A, Bobryshev D. Potential and Possible Therapeutic Effects of Melatonin on SARS-CoV-2 Infection. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:140. [PMID: 35052644 PMCID: PMC8772978 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11010140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The absence of effective drugs for COVID-19 prevention and treatment requires the search for new candidates among approved medicines. Fundamental studies and clinical observations allow us to approach an understanding of the mechanisms of damage and protection from exposure to SARS-CoV-2, to identify possible points of application for pharmacological interventions. In this review we presented studies on the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunotropic properties of melatonin. We have attempted to present scientifically proven mechanisms of action for the potential therapeutic use of melatonin during SARS-CoV-2 infection. A wide range of pharmacological properties allows its inclusion as an effective addition to the methods of prevention and treatment of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evgeny Shchetinin
- Department of Pathophysiology, Stavropol State Medical University, 355000 Stavropol, Russia
| | - Vladimir Baturin
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Stavropol State Medical University, 355000 Stavropol, Russia
| | - Eduard Arushanyan
- Department of Pharmacology, Stavropol State Medical University, 355000 Stavropol, Russia
| | - Albert Bolatchiev
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Stavropol State Medical University, 355000 Stavropol, Russia
| | - Dmitriy Bobryshev
- Center of Personalized Medicine, Stavropol State Medical University, 355000 Stavropol, Russia
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Manohar K, Gupta RK, Gupta P, Saha D, Gare S, Sarkar R, Misra A, Giri L. FDA approved L-type channel blocker Nifedipine reduces cell death in hypoxic A549 cells through modulation of mitochondrial calcium and superoxide generation. Free Radic Biol Med 2021; 177:189-200. [PMID: 34666149 PMCID: PMC8520174 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2021.08.245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
As hypoxia is a major driver for the pathophysiology of COVID-19, it is crucial to characterize the hypoxic response at the cellular and molecular levels. In order to augment drug repurposing with the identification of appropriate molecular targets, investigations on therapeutics preventing hypoxic cell damage is required. In this work, we propose a hypoxia model based on alveolar lung epithelial cells line using chemical inducer, CoCl2 that can be used for testing calcium channel blockers (CCBs). Since recent studies suggested that CCBs may reduce the infectivity of SARS-Cov-2, we specifically select FDA approved calcium channel blocker, nifedipine for the study. First, we examined hypoxia-induced cell morphology and found a significant increase in cytosolic calcium levels, mitochondrial calcium overload as well as ROS production in hypoxic A549 cells. Secondly, we demonstrate the protective behaviour of nifedipine for cells that are already subjected to hypoxia through measurement of cell viability as well as 4D imaging of cellular morphology and nuclear condensation. Thirdly, we show that the protective effect of nifedipine is achieved through the reduction of cytosolic calcium, mitochondrial calcium, and ROS generation. Overall, we outline a framework for quantitative analysis of mitochondrial calcium and ROS using 3D imaging in laser scanning confocal microscopy and the open-source image analysis platform ImageJ. The proposed pipeline was used to visualize mitochondrial calcium and ROS level in individual cells that provide an understanding of molecular targets. Our findings suggest that the therapeutic value of nifedipine may potentially be evaluated in the context of COVID-19 therapeutic trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuruba Manohar
- Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology, Hyderabad, 502285, India
| | - Rishikesh Kumar Gupta
- International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology in Warsaw, Warsaw, 02 109, Poland; Postgraduate School of Molecular Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, 02-091, Poland
| | - Parth Gupta
- Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology, Hyderabad, 502285, India
| | - Debasmita Saha
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Hyderabad, 502285, India
| | - Suman Gare
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Hyderabad, 502285, India
| | - Rahuldeb Sarkar
- Departments of Respiratory Medicine and Critical Care, Medway NHS Foundation Trust, Gillingham, Kent, UK; Faculty of Life Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Ashish Misra
- Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology, Hyderabad, 502285, India
| | - Lopamudra Giri
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Hyderabad, 502285, India.
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12
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Li HX, Liang XY, Wu JH, Yuan YP, Gao Y, Cai SH. Simvastatin attenuates acute lung injury by activation of A2B adenosine receptor. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2021; 422:115460. [PMID: 33774062 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2021.115460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
To explore the protective mechanism of simvastatin in acute lung injury (ALI), the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced (5 mg/kg) ALI rat model was used to examine the effects of simvastatin. Following simvastatin treatment, the histopathological evaluation of lung tissues was made using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. Also, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and the levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), and IL-10 were determined by ELISA. Blood gas analyses of arterial blood samples were performed to assess the pulmonary gas exchange. Moreover, the neutrophil count and total protein content were determined in the bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid. The ratio of wet lung to dry lung (W/D) and the alveolar fluid clearance (AFC) were calculated to estimate the severity of edema. Lastly, the levels of A2BAR, CFTR, claudin4, and claudin18 were also measured by qRT-PCR and Western blotting. Simvastatin treatment, in a dose-related manner, markedly improved the lung histological injury and decreased the levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, and increased IL-10 in LPS induced ALI. Also, pulmonary neutrophil count was alleviated. Besides, a decreased ratio of W/D lung also confirmed the simvastatin intervention. Notably, simvastatin reduced the levels of A2BAR, CFTR, and claudin18 but upregulated claudin4 in lung tissues. Additionally, treatment with PSB1115, an antagonist of A2BAR, countered the protective effect of simvastatin in ALI. Our study demonstrates that simvastatin has a protective effect against LPS-induced ALI by activating A2BAR and should be exploited as a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of ALI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Xia Li
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Medical Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China
| | - Xiao-Yan Liang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine in Special Wards, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China
| | - Jiong-He Wu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Medical Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China
| | - Ya-Ping Yuan
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Medical Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China
| | - Yue Gao
- Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, AMMS, Haidian, Beijing 100039, China.
| | - Shao-Hua Cai
- Department of Respiratory Medicine in Special Wards, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China.
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13
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Chen D, Zhang T, Lee TH. Cellular Mechanisms of Melatonin: Insight from Neurodegenerative Diseases. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10081158. [PMID: 32784556 PMCID: PMC7464852 DOI: 10.3390/biom10081158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are the second most common cause of death and characterized by progressive impairments in movement or mental functioning in the central or peripheral nervous system. The prevention of neurodegenerative disorders has become an emerging public health challenge for our society. Melatonin, a pineal hormone, has various physiological functions in the brain, including regulating circadian rhythms, clearing free radicals, inhibiting biomolecular oxidation, and suppressing neuroinflammation. Cumulative evidence indicates that melatonin has a wide range of neuroprotective roles by regulating pathophysiological mechanisms and signaling pathways. Moreover, melatonin levels are decreased in patients with neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on the regulation, molecular mechanisms and biological functions of melatonin in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, vascular dementia and multiple sclerosis. We also discuss the clinical application of melatonin in neurodegenerative disorders. This information will lead to a better understanding of the regulation of melatonin in the brain and provide therapeutic options for the treatment of various neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongmei Chen
- Correspondence: (D.C.); (T.H.L.); Tel.: +86-591-2286-2498 (D.C.); +86-591-2286-2498 (T.H.L.)
| | | | - Tae Ho Lee
- Correspondence: (D.C.); (T.H.L.); Tel.: +86-591-2286-2498 (D.C.); +86-591-2286-2498 (T.H.L.)
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14
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Bueno M, Calyeca J, Rojas M, Mora AL. Mitochondria dysfunction and metabolic reprogramming as drivers of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Redox Biol 2020; 33:101509. [PMID: 32234292 PMCID: PMC7251240 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2020.101509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2020] [Revised: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a devastating lung disease of unknown etiology. It is characterized by deposition of extracellular matrix proteins, like collagen and fibronectin in the lung interstitium leading to respiratory failure. Our understanding of the pathobiology underlying IPF is still incomplete; however, it is accepted that aging is a major risk factor in the disease while growing evidence suggests that the mitochondria plays an important role in the initiation and progression of pulmonary fibrosis. Mitochondria dysfunction and metabolic reprogramming had been identified in different IPF lung cells (alveolar epithelial cells, fibroblasts, and macrophages) promoting low resilience and increasing susceptibility to activation of profibrotic responses. Here we summarize changes in mitochondrial numbers, biogenesis, turnover and associated metabolic adaptations that promote disrepair and fibrosis in the lung. Finally, we highlight new possible therapeutic approaches focused on ameliorate mitochondrial dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Bueno
- Aging Institute, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Division of Pulmonary Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Vascular Medicine Institute, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jazmin Calyeca
- Aging Institute, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Mauricio Rojas
- Division of Pulmonary Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Dorothy and Richard Simmons Center for Interstitial Lung Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Ana L Mora
- Aging Institute, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Division of Pulmonary Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Vascular Medicine Institute, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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15
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Dong SA, Gong LR, Yu JB, Kan YX. The Role of Melatonin in Electroacupuncture Alleviating Lung Injury Induced by Limb Ischemia-Reperfusion in Rabbits. Med Sci Monit 2020; 26:e922525. [PMID: 32427819 PMCID: PMC7251961 DOI: 10.12659/msm.922525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Our previous studies have shown that electroacupuncture (EA) can alleviate lung injury induced by limb ischemia-reperfusion, but the specific mechanism is still unclear. Material/Methods The animals were randomly divided into sham operation group (Sham), model group (IR), electroacupuncture group (EA), sham electroacupuncture group (SEA), and EA+luzindole group (EA+luzindole). The limb ischemia-reperfusion model was established according to previously described, the rabbits in the EA and EA+luzindole groups were given EA at ST36 and BL13 for 7 days before the model preparation and during the model implementation, however, sham EA was mainly used to stimulate the rabbits in the SEA group with shallow needling at the points 0.5 cm near ST36 and BL13. Then, 30 mg/kg of luzindole was intraperitoneally injected 30 minutes before the model preparation in the EA+luzindole group. Results The wet weight/dry weight (W/D) ratio, lung injury score, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents in the EA group at 4 hours after reperfusion were significantly lower than those in the IR, SEA, and EA+luzindole groups. The levels of serum melatonin at T0 in the EA and EA+luzindole groups were significantly higher than those in the Sham group. The levels of serum melatonin at T1 and T2 in the IR group were significantly lower than those in the Sham group. There was no significant difference in the expression levels of melatonin receptor 1 (MR-1) and MR-2 in lung tissues among the 5 groups. Conclusions EA could alleviate the lung injury induced by limb ischemia-reperfusion by promoting the secretion of melatonin, while having no effect on the expression of melatonin receptor in lung tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu-An Dong
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tianjin Nankai Hospital, Tianjin, China (mainland)
| | - Li-Rong Gong
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tianjin Nankai Hospital, Tianjin, China (mainland)
| | - Jian-Bo Yu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tianjin Nankai Hospital, Tianjin, China (mainland)
| | - Yong-Xing Kan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Dagang Hospital of Tianjin Binhai New Area, Tianjin, China (mainland)
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16
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Zhang X, Zhu Y, Zhou Y, Fei B. Activation of Nrf2 Signaling by Apelin Attenuates Renal Ischemia Reperfusion Injury in Diabetic Rats. Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes 2020; 13:2169-2177. [PMID: 32606875 PMCID: PMC7320893 DOI: 10.2147/dmso.s246743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Renal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury is commonly seen in diabetic patients. Apelin has been demonstrated to protect against renal I/R injury, whereas detailed modulatory mechanisms by which Apelin exerts its role in renal I/R injury in diabetic patients remain unclarified. This research aimed to probe the functional molecules under the regulation of Apelin in renal I/R injury in diabetic rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS First, animal models were established for subsequent assays. Biochemical kits measured the serum levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine (SCR), and hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining examined the histopathological changes of kidney tissues. Inflammatory factors containing tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 1β (IL-1β), interleukin 6 (IL-6) and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) were tested through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), respectively. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in the serum and kidney tissues were separately assessed by specific ROS kits. Cell apoptosis was further estimated through terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) and Western blot analysis. Eventually, the influences of Apelin on nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2) and its downstream genes were explored via Western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry (IHC). RESULTS In the present study, Apelin ameliorated the damage to renal function and histological structure, decreased levels of inflammatory factors and ROS, and hampered cell apoptosis in renal I/R injury of diabetic rats. Moreover, Apelin could elevate the levels of Nrf2 and downstream genes which were decreased under renal I/R injury. CONCLUSION These data indicated that Apelin inhibited renal I/R injury through regulating Nrf2 signaling in diabetic rats, which might shed new light on the treatment of renal I/R injury in diabetic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaobo Zhang
- Nephrology Department, The Affiliated Huaian No. 1 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Huaian, Jiangsu Province223300, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Xiaobo Zhang The Affiliated Huaian No. 1 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Number 1 Huanghe Xi Lu, Huaiyin District, Huaian, Jiangsu Province223300, People’s Republic of China Email
| | - Ying Zhu
- Nephrology Department, The Affiliated Huaian No. 1 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Huaian, Jiangsu Province223300, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ying Zhou
- Nephrology Department, The Affiliated Huaian No. 1 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Huaian, Jiangsu Province223300, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bingru Fei
- Nephrology Department, The Affiliated Huaian No. 1 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Huaian, Jiangsu Province223300, People’s Republic of China
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Roles of the Hepatic Endocannabinoid and Apelin Systems in the Pathogenesis of Liver Fibrosis. Cells 2019; 8:cells8111311. [PMID: 31653030 PMCID: PMC6912778 DOI: 10.3390/cells8111311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Revised: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis is the consequence of an unresolved wound healing process in response to chronic liver injury and involves multiple cell types and molecular mechanisms. The hepatic endocannabinoid and apelin systems are two signalling pathways with a substantial role in the liver fibrosis pathophysiology-both are upregulated in patients with advanced liver disease. Endogenous cannabinoids are lipid-signalling molecules derived from arachidonic acid involved in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular dysfunction, portal hypertension, liver fibrosis, and other processes associated with hepatic disease through their interactions with the CB1 and CB2 receptors. Apelin is a peptide that participates in cardiovascular and renal functions, inflammation, angiogenesis, and hepatic fibrosis through its interaction with the APJ receptor. The endocannabinoid and apelin systems are two of the multiple cell-signalling pathways involved in the transformation of quiescent hepatic stellate cells into myofibroblast like cells, the main matrix-producing cells in liver fibrosis. The mechanisms underlying the control of hepatic stellate cell activity are coincident despite the marked dissimilarities between the endocannabinoid and apelin signalling pathways. This review discusses the current understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which the hepatic endocannabinoid and apelin systems play a significant role in the pathophysiology of liver fibrosis.
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