The polyadenylation inhibitor cordycepin reduces pain, inflammation and joint pathology in rodent models of osteoarthritis

A biomimetic lubricating nanosystem for synergistic therapy of osteoarthritis

Failure of articular cartilage lubrication and inflammation are the main causes of osteoarthritis (OA), and integrated treatment realizing joint lubrication and anti-inflammation is becoming the most effective treat model. Inspired by low friction of human synovial fluid and adhesive chemical effect of mussels, our work reports a biomimetic lubricating system that realizes long-time lubrication, photothermal responsiveness and anti-inflammation property. To build the system, a dopamine-mediated strategy is developed to controllably graft hyaluronic acid on the surface of metal organic framework. The design constructs a biomimetic core-shell structure that has good dispersity and stability in water with a high drug loading ratio of 99%. Temperature of the solution rapidly increases to 55 °C under near-infrared light, and the hard-soft lubricating system well adheres to wear surfaces, and greatly reduces frictional coefficient by 75% for more than 7200 times without failure. Cell experiments show that the nanosystem enters cells by endocytosis, and releases medication in a sustained manner. The anti-inflammatory outcomes validate that the nanosystem prevents the progression of OA by down-regulating catabolic proteases and pain-related genes and up-regulating genes that are anabolic in cartilage. The study provides a bioinspired strategy to employ metal organic framework with controlled surface and structure for friction reduction and anti-inflammation, and develops a new concept of OA synergistic therapy model for practical applications.

MAT1-1 and MAT1-2 Ophiocordyceps xuefengensis and Comparison of Their Chemical Composition

Many Cordyceps sensu lato species are used as traditional Chinese medicines. However, Cordyceps are entomopathogenic fungi in the family Clavicipitaceae of Ascomycota, and excessive harvesting severely disrupts natural habitat ecosystems. Artificial cultivation of Cordyceps fruiting bodies offers a viable strategy to protect the ecological environment and mitigate the depletion of wild resource. In this study, mononucleate hyphae were selected using DAPI fluorescence staining, the MAT1-1 and MAT1-2 strains of O. xuefengensis were successfully distinguished using loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP). The chemical composition and bioactive components of fruiting bodies produced by these strains were compared. Results showed that the levels of adenosine, thymidine, adenine, guanosine, uridine, total amino acids, and total essential amino acids in the fruiting bodies of MAT1-1 strains were 1.31 mg/g, 0.15 mg/g, 0.26 mg/g, 2.40 mg/g, 2.34 mg/g, 270.3 mg/g, and 102.5 mg/g, respectively, which were significantly higher than those in the MAT1-2 sample. Contrastingly, the fruiting bodies of MAT1-2 strains contained higher levels of mannose and polysaccharides, at 11.7% and 12.2%, respectively. The levels of toxic elements such as Al, Pb, As, and Hg in the MAT1-1 fruiting bodies were 1.862 mg/kg, 0.0848 mg/kg, 0.534 mg/kg, and 0.0054 mg/kg, respectively, which were markedly lower than those in the MAT1-2 fruiting bodies.

Natural anti-inflammatory products for osteoarthritis: From molecular mechanism to drug delivery systems and clinical trials

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that affects millions globally. The present nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug treatments have different side effects, leading researchers to focus on natural anti-inflammatory products (NAIPs). To review the effectiveness and mechanisms of NAIPs in the cellular microenvironment, examining their impact on OA cell phenotype and organelles levels. Additionally, we summarize relevant research on drug delivery systems and clinical randomized controlled trials (RCTs), to promote clinical studies and explore natural product delivery options. English-language articles were searched on PubMed using the search terms "natural products," "OA," and so forth. We categorized search results based on PubChem and excluded "natural products" which are mix of ingredients or compounds without the structure message. Then further review was separately conducted for molecular mechanisms, drug delivery systems, and RCTs later. At present, it cannot be considered that NAIPs can thoroughly prevent or cure OA. Further high-quality studies on the anti-inflammatory mechanism and drug delivery systems of NAIPs are needed, to determine the appropriate drug types and regimens for clinical application, and to explore the combined effects of different NAIPs to prevent and treat OA.

Sprayed PAA-CaO2 nanoparticles combined with calcium ions and reactive oxygen species for antibacterial and wound healing

The most common socioeconomic healthcare issues in clinical are burns, surgical incisions and other skin injuries. Skin lesion healing can be achieved with nanomedicines and other drug application techniques. This study developed a nano-spray based on cross-linked amorphous calcium peroxide (CaO2) nanoparticles of polyacrylic acid (PAA) for treating skin wounds (PAA-CaO2 nanoparticles). CaO2 serves as a 'drug' precursor, steadily and continuously releasing calcium ions (Ca2+) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) under mildly acidic conditions, while PAA-CaO2 nanoparticles exhibited good spray behavior in aqueous form. Tests demonstrated that PAA-CaO2 nanoparticles exhibited low cytotoxicity and allowed L929 cells proliferation and migration in vitro. The effectiveness of PAA-CaO2 nanoparticles in promoting wound healing and inhibiting bacterial growth in vivo was assessed in SD rats using full-thickness skin defect and Staphylococcus aureus (S.aureus)-infected wound models based thereon. The results revealed that PAA-CaO2 nanoparticles demonstrated significant advantages in both aspects. Notably, the infected rats' skin defects healed in 12 days. The benefits are linked to the functional role of Ca2+ coalesces with H2O2 as known antibacterial and healing-promoted agents. Therefore, we developed nanoscale PAA-CaO2 sprays to prevent bacterial development and heal skin lesions.

Dexmedetomidine alleviates osteoarthritis inflammation and pain through the CB2 pathway in rats

As a common joint disease, osteoarthritis (OA) is often associated with chronic pain. Synovial inflammation is correlated with OA progression and pain. Synovial inflammation can produce a series of destructive substances, such as inflammatory factors and pain mediators, which aggravate cartilage injury and further accelerate the progression of OA. Although many studies investigated the effects of synovial inflammation on the onset and progression of OA, there are limited reports regarding slowing the progression of OA and relieving pain by modulating synovial inflammation. Therefore, there is an urgent need to search for safe and effective drugs to alleviate synovial inflammation. Dexmedetomidine, a selective α₂ agonist, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. However, its role and mechanism in OA remain unclear. Here, the effects and mechanisms of dexmedetomidine in OA synovial inflammation were investigated both in vivo and in vitro. We observed that dexmedetomidine stunted LPS-induced migration and invasion of FLSs and the expression of inflammatory factors by upregulating cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB₂) expression. Surprisingly, the application of AM630 (CB₂ antagonist) reversed this therapeutic effect. The results of the animal experiments showed that dexmedetomidine reduced synovial inflammation and increased the pain threshold in an OA rat model. These preliminary results imply that dexmedetomidine may be an effective compound for OA treatment.

Synergistic effect of CD47 blockade in combination with cordycepin treatment against cancer

Cordycepin is widely considered a direct tumor-suppressive agent. However, few studies have investigated as the effect of cordycepin therapy on the tumor microenvironment (TME). In our present study, we demonstrated that cordycepin could weaken the function of M1-like macrophages in the TME and also contribute to macrophage polarization toward the M2 phenotype. Herein, we established a combined therapeutic strategy combining cordycepin and an anti-CD47 antibody. By using single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), we showed that the combination treatment could significantly enhance the effect of cordycepin, which would reactivate macrophages and reverse macrophage polarization. In addition, the combination treatment could regulate the proportion of CD8⁺ T cells to prolong the progression-free survival (PFS) of patients with digestive tract malignancies. Finally, flow cytometry validated the changes in the proportions of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs). Collectively, our findings suggested that the combination treatment of cordycepin and the anti-CD47 antibody could significantly enhance tumor suppression, increase the proportion of M1 macrophages, and decrease the proportion of M2 macrophages. In addition, the PFS in patients with digestive tract malignancies would be prolonged by regulating CD8 ⁺ T cells.

The RNA-Binding Protein HuR Is Integral to the Function of Nociceptors in Mice and Humans

HuR is an RNA-binding protein implicated in RNA processing, stability, and translation. Previously, we examined protein synthesis in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons treated with inflammatory mediators using ribosome profiling. We found that the HuR consensus binding element was enriched in transcripts with elevated translation. HuR is expressed in the soma of nociceptors and their axons. Pharmacologic inhibition of HuR with the small molecule CMLD-2 reduced the activity of mouse and human sensory neurons. Peripheral administration of CMLD-2 in the paw or genetic elimination of HuR from sensory neurons diminished behavioral responses associated with NGF- and IL-6-induced allodynia in male and female mice. Genetic disruption of HuR altered the proximity of mRNA decay factors near a key neurotrophic factor (TrkA). Collectively, the data suggest that HuR is required for local control of mRNA stability and reveals a new biological function for a broadly conserved post-transcriptional regulatory factor.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Nociceptors undergo long-lived changes in excitability, which may contribute to chronic pain. Noxious cues that promote pain lead to rapid induction of protein synthesis. The underlying mechanisms that confer specificity to mRNA control in nociceptors are unclear. Here, we identify a conserved RNA-binding protein called HuR as a key regulatory factor in sensory neurons. Using a combination of genetics and pharmacology, we demonstrate that HuR is required for signaling in nociceptors. In doing so, we report an important mechanism of mRNA control in sensory neurons that ensures appropriate nociceptive responses to inflammatory mediators.

Cordycepin Attenuates Testosterone-Induced Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia in Rats via Modulation of AMPK and AKT Activation

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a disease that commonly affects elderly men. Cordycepin is an adenosine analog with a wide range of pharmacological activities including antiproliferative and prostatic smooth muscle relaxant effects. This study was designed to assess the actions of cordycepin in testosterone-induced BPH in rats. Animals were divided into six treatment groups: control, cordycepin-alone (10 mg/kg), testosterone-alone (3 mg/kg), cordycepin (5 mg/kg) + testosterone, cordycepin (10 mg/kg) + testosterone, and finasteride (0.5 mg/kg) + testosterone. Treatments were continued daily, 5 days a week, for 4 weeks. Cordycepin significantly prevented the increase in prostate weight and prostate index induced by testosterone. This was confirmed by histopathological examinations. Cordycepin antiproliferative activity was further defined by its ability to inhibit cyclin-D1 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) expression. In addition, cordycepin exhibited significant antioxidant properties as proven by the prevention of lipid peroxidation, reduced glutathione diminution, and superoxide dismutase exhaustion. This was paralleled by anti-inflammatory activity as shown by the inhibition of interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, and nuclear factor-κB expression in prostatic tissues. It also enhanced apoptosis as demonstrated by its ability to enhance and inhibit mRNA expression of Bax and Bcl2, respectively. Western blot analysis indicated that cordycepin augmented phospho-AMP-activated protein kinase (p-AMPK) and inhibited p-AKT expression. Collectively, cordycepin has the ability to prevent testosterone-induced BPH in rats. This is mediated, at least partially, by its antiproliferative, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and pro-apoptotic actions in addition to its modulation of AMPK and AKT activation.

Network Pharmacology-Based Strategy to Investigate the Mechanisms of Cibotium barometz in Treating Osteoarthritis

Cibotium barometz is a representative tonifying kidney drug and is widely used for osteoarthritis (OA) in traditional Chinese medicine. However, its regulatory mechanisms in treating OA remain to be sufficiently investigated. The main chemical components of Cibotium barometz were screened through the TCMID database and the corresponding targets were acquired through SwissTargetPrediction. The OA-related targets were obtained from the OMIM, Genecards, Genebank, TTD, and DisGeNET databases. The prediction of key targets and pathways of Cibotium barometz in the treatment of OA was achieved by constructing a compounds-targets network and performing KEGG enrichment analysis. The OA model rats were established by the Hulth method and used to explore the protective effect of Cibotium barometz via cartilage pathological assessment. In vitro models of OA were built by the proinflammatory factor interleukin-1β (IL-1β) induced SW1353 cells and used to validate the mechanisms predicted by network pharmacology. Network pharmacology results suggested that the therapeutic effects of Cibotium barometz were closely related to matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1, 3, 13 and inflammation-related gene COX2, which are regulated by the NFκB pathway. In vivo experiments revealed that Cibotium barometz could effectively restrain cartilage from degeneration and inhibit the mRNA expression of MMP-1, MMP-3, MMP-13, and COX2 in cartilage. In vitro experiments indicated that Cibotium barometz water extract (CBWE) could significantly inhibit the expression of MMP-1, MMP-3, MMP-13, and PGE₂ in IL-1β-induced SW1353 cells and markedly prevent the translocation of NFκB p65 from the cytoplasm to the nuclei and decrease its phosphorylation level. After small-interfering RNA (siRNA) was used to suppress the synthesis of NFκB p65 to block NFκB signaling pathway, the ability of CBWE to inhibit MMP-1, MMP-3, MMP-13, and PGE₂ was greatly reduced. Cibotium barometz has a chondroprotective effect on OA by inhibiting the response to inflammation and substrate degradation, and the related mechanism is associated with the inhibition of the NFκB pathway.

Cordycepin enhances hyperthermia-induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest by modulating the MAPK pathway in human lymphoma U937 cells

BACKGROUND

Hyperthermia induces cancer cell death. However, the cytotoxic effect of hyperthermia is not sufficient. Cordycepin can also induce apoptosis in cancer cells and enhance the antitumoral activity of irradiation. To examine cordycepin-mediated enhancement of hyperthermia-induced apoptosis, this study investigated the combined effects and apoptotic mechanisms of hyperthermia and cordycepin on human leukemia U937 cells.

METHODS

Cell viability and apoptosis were measured using MTT assays, Hoechst 33342 staining and Annexin V/PI double staining. The distribution of the cell cycle and sub-G1 phase, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) were examined by flow cytometry. The expression of related proteins was analyzed by western blotting.

RESULTS

Combined treatment with hyperthermia and cordycepin markedly augmented apoptosis by upregulating Bax and suppressing Bcl-2, Bid and activated caspase 3 and 8 expression, and apoptosis was decreased by Z-VAD-fmk (a pan caspase inhibitor). We also found that the MMP was significantly decreased and excessive ROS generation occurred. The combination treatment also induced arrest in the G2/M phase by downregulating cyclin dependent kinase 1 (CDK1) and cyclin B1 protein expression. Furthermore, it was observed that mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway including ERK, JNK and p38 signals was involved in the induction of apoptosis. The phosphorylated p38 and JNK were increased and ERK phosphorylation was decreased by the combined treatment. In addition, N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) significantly protected the cells by restoring ROS levels and the activity of caspase-3, inactivating the MAPK pathway.

CONCLUSION

Cordycepin significantly enhanced hyperthermia-induced apoptosis and G2/M phase arrest in U937 cells. The combined treatment enhanced apoptosis through the MAPK pathway and mitochondrial dysfunction, and these effects could be rescued by NAC. We report for the first time that cordycepin can be used as a hyperthermia sensitizer to treat leukemia.

Clinical and Preclinical Evidence for Roles of Soluble Epoxide Hydrolase in Osteoarthritis Knee Pain

OBJECTIVE

Chronic pain due to osteoarthritis (OA) is a major clinical problem, and existing analgesics often have limited beneficial effects and/or adverse effects, necessitating the development of novel therapies. Epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs) are endogenous antiinflammatory mediators, rapidly metabolized by soluble epoxide hydrolase (EH) to dihydroxyeicosatrienoic acids (DHETs). We undertook this study to assess whether soluble EH-driven metabolism of EETs to DHETs plays a critical role in chronic joint pain associated with OA and provides a new target for treatment.

METHODS

Potential associations of chronic knee pain with single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the gene-encoding soluble EH and with circulating levels of EETs and DHETs were investigated in human subjects. A surgically induced murine model of OA was used to determine the effects of both acute and chronic selective inhibition of soluble EH by N-[1-(1-oxopropy)-4-piperidinyl]-N'-(trifluoromethoxy)phenyl]-urea (TPPU) on weight-bearing asymmetry, hind paw withdrawal thresholds, joint histology, and circulating concentrations of EETs and DHETs.

RESULTS

In human subjects with chronic knee pain, 3 pain measures were associated with SNPs of the soluble EH gene EPHX2, and in 2 separate cohorts of subjects, circulating levels of EETs and DHETs were also associated with 3 pain measures. In the murine OA model, systemic administration of TPPU both acutely and chronically reversed established pain behaviors and decreased circulating levels of 8,9-DHET and 14,15-DHET. EET levels were unchanged by TPPU administration.

CONCLUSION

Our novel findings support a role of soluble EH in OA pain and suggest that inhibition of soluble EH and protection of endogenous EETs from catabolism represents a potential new therapeutic target for OA pain.

Anti-Inflammatory and Analgesic Effects of Schisandra chinensis Leaf Extracts and Monosodium Iodoacetate-Induced Osteoarthritis in Rats and Acetic Acid-Induced Writhing in Mice

In this study, we aimed to determine the anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities of Schisandra chinensis leaf extracts (SCLE) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages, an acetic acid-induced mouse model of writhing, and a monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced rat model of osteoarthritis (OA). In LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells, a 100 µg/mL dose of SCLE significantly reduced the production of nitric oxide (NO), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). Acetic acid-induced writhing responses in mice that quantitatively determine pain were significantly inhibited by SCLE treatment. In addition, SCLE significantly decreased the MIA-induced elevation in OA symptoms, the expression levels of pro-inflammatory mediators/cytokines and matrix metalloproteinases, and cartilage damage in the serum and joint tissues. Our data demonstrated that SCLE exerts anti-osteoarthritic effects by regulating inflammation and pain and can be a useful therapeutic candidate against OA.

Botanical Drug Extracts Combined With Biomaterial Carriers for Osteoarthritis Cartilage Degeneration Treatment: A Review of 10 Years of Research

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a long-term chronic arthrosis disease which is usually characterized by pain, swelling, joint stiffness, reduced range of motion, and other clinical manifestations and even results in disability in severe cases. The main pathological manifestation of OA is the degeneration of cartilage. However, due to the special physiological structure of the cartilage, once damaged, it is unable to repair itself, which is one of the challenges of treating OA clinically. Abundant studies have reported the application of cartilage tissue engineering in OA cartilage repair. Among them, cell combined with biological carrier implantation has unique advantages. However, cell senescence, death and dedifferentiation are some problems when cultured in vitro. Botanical drug remedies for OA have a long history in many countries in Asia. In fact, botanical drug extracts (BDEs) have great potential in anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiaging, and other properties, and many studies have confirmed their effects. BDEs combined with cartilage tissue engineering has attracted increasing attention in recent years. In this review, we will explain in detail how cartilage tissue engineering materials and BDEs play a role in cartilage repair, as well as the current research status.

Drug Delivery of Natural Products Through Nanocarriers for Effective Breast Cancer Therapy: A Comprehensive Review of Literature

Despite recent advances in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer (BC), it remains a global health issue affecting millions of women annually. Poor prognosis in BC patients is often linked to drug resistance as well as the lack of effective therapeutic options for metastatic and triple-negative BC. In response to these unmet needs, extensive research efforts have been devoted to exploring the anti-BC potentials of natural products owing to their multi-target mechanisms of action and good safety profiles. Various medicinal plant extracts/essential oils and natural bioactive compounds have demonstrated anti-cancer activities in preclinical BC models. Despite the promising preclinical results, however, the clinical translation of natural products has often been hindered by their poor stability, aqueous solubility and bioavailability. There have been attempts to overcome these limitations, particularly via the use of nano-based drug delivery systems (NDDSs). This review highlights the tumour targeting mechanisms of NDDSs, the advantages and disadvantages of the major classes of NDDSs and their current clinical status in BC treatment. Besides, it also discusses the proposed anti-BC mechanisms and nanoformulations of nine medicinal plants' extracts/essential oils and nine natural bioactive compounds; selected via the screening of various scientific databases, including PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar, based on the following keywords: "Natural Product AND Nanoparticle AND Breast Cancer". Overall, these nanoformulations exhibit improved anti-cancer efficacy against preclinical BC models, with some demonstrating biocompatibility with normal cell lines and mouse models. Further clinical studies are, however, warranted to ascertain their efficacy and biocompatibility in humans.

The Novel Nucleoside Analogue ProTide NUC-7738 Overcomes Cancer Resistance Mechanisms In Vitro and in a First-In-Human Phase I Clinical Trial

PURPOSE

Nucleoside analogues form the backbone of many therapeutic regimens in oncology and require the presence of intracellular enzymes for their activation. A ProTide is comprised of a nucleoside fused to a protective phosphoramidate cap. ProTides are easily incorporated into cells whereupon the cap is cleaved and a preactivated nucleoside released. 3'-Deoxyadenosine (3'-dA) is a naturally occurring adenosine analogue with established anticancer activity in vitro but limited bioavailability due to its rapid in vivo deamination by the circulating enzyme adenosine deaminase, poor uptake into cells, and reliance on adenosine kinase for its activation. In order to overcome these limitations, 3'-dA was chemically modified to create the novel ProTide NUC-7738.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

We describe the synthesis of NUC-7738. We determine the IC50 of NUC-7738 using pharmacokinetics (PK) and conduct genome-wide analyses to identify its mechanism of action using different cancer model systems. We validate these findings in patients with cancer.

RESULTS

We show that NUC-7738 overcomes the cancer resistance mechanisms that limit the activity of 3'-dA and that its activation is dependent on ProTide cleavage by the enzyme histidine triad nucleotide-binding protein 1. PK and tumor samples obtained from the ongoing first-in-human phase I clinical trial of NUC-7738 further validate our in vitro findings and show NUC-7738 is an effective proapoptotic agent in cancer cells with effects on the NF-κB pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study provides proof that NUC-7738 overcomes cellular resistance mechanisms and supports its further clinical evaluation as a novel cancer treatment within the growing pantheon of anticancer ProTides.

Cordyceps militaris: An Overview of Its Chemical Constituents in Relation to Biological Activity

Cordyceps spp. mushrooms have a long tradition of use as a natural raw material in Asian ethnomedicine because of their adaptogenic, tonic effects and their ability to reduce fatigue and stimulate the immune system in humans. This review aims to present the chemical composition and medicinal properties of Cordyceps militaris fruiting bodies and mycelium, as well as mycelium from in vitro cultures. The analytical results of the composition of C. militaris grown in culture media show the bioactive components such as cordycepin, polysaccharides, γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), ergothioneine and others described in the review. To summarize, based on the presence of several bioactive compounds that contribute to biological activity, C. militaris mushrooms definitely deserve to be considered as functional foods and also have great potential for medicinal use. Recent scientific reports indicate the potential of cordycepin in antiviral activity, particularly against COVID-19.

A Systematic Review of the Biological Effects of Cordycepin

We conducted a systematic review of the literature on the effects of cordycepin on cell survival and proliferation, inflammation, signal transduction and animal models. A total of 1204 publications on cordycepin were found by the cut-off date of 1 February 2021. After application of the exclusion criteria, 791 papers remained. These were read and data on the chosen subjects were extracted. We found 192 papers on the effects of cordycepin on cell survival and proliferation and calculated a median inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 135 µM. Cordycepin consistently repressed cell migration (26 papers) and cellular inflammation (53 papers). Evaluation of 76 papers on signal transduction indicated consistently reduced PI3K/mTOR/AKT and ERK signalling and activation of AMPK. In contrast, the effects of cordycepin on the p38 and Jun kinases were variable, as were the effects on cell cycle arrest (53 papers), suggesting these are cell-specific responses. The examination of 150 animal studies indicated that purified cordycepin has many potential therapeutic effects, including the reduction of tumour growth (37 papers), repression of pain and inflammation (9 papers), protecting brain function (11 papers), improvement of respiratory and cardiac conditions (8 and 19 papers) and amelioration of metabolic disorders (8 papers). Nearly all these data are consistent with cordycepin mediating its therapeutic effects through activating AMPK, inhibiting PI3K/mTOR/AKT and repressing the inflammatory response. We conclude that cordycepin has excellent potential as a lead for drug development, especially for age-related diseases. In addition, we discuss the remaining issues around the mechanism of action, toxicity and biodistribution of cordycepin.

Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of C-17-Amino-Substituted Pyrazole-Fused Betulinic Acid Derivatives as Novel Agents for Osteoarthritis Treatment

A series of pyrazole-fused betulinic acid (BA) derivatives were designed and synthesized by replacing the carboxyl group at C-17 with aliphatic amine, amide, and urea groups. The suppressive effects of the compounds on osteoclast (OC) formation and inflammatory cytokine production were evaluated on murine macrophages, RAW264.7 cells, conditioned with receptor activator for nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL)/macrophage colony stimulating factor (M-CSF) or lipopolysaccharide (LPS), respectively. Results showed that, compared with betulinic acid, most of these compounds exhibited significant improvements in inhibitory potency. Compound 25 exhibited distinguished activities on inhibiting OC differentiation with an IC50 value of 1.86 μM. Meanwhile, compound 25, displaying the most promising suppression on IL-1β secretion from RAW264.7 cells, was further found to possess therapeutic effects in the sodium monoiodoacetate (MIA)-induced osteoarthritis rat model. Dose-dependent benefits were observed in MIA-elicited rats with ameliorated joint pain as well as decreased cartilage damage and bone changes after compound 25 treatment.

PTX-3 Secreted by Intra-Articular-Injected SMUP-Cells Reduces Pain in an Osteoarthritis Rat Model

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are accessible, abundantly available, and capable of regenerating; they have the potential to be developed as therapeutic agents for diseases. However, concerns remain in their further application. In this study, we developed a SMall cell+Ultra Potent+Scale UP cell (SMUP-Cell) platform to improve whole-cell processing, including manufacturing bioreactors and xeno-free solutions for commercialization. To confirm the superiority of SMUP-Cell improvements, we demonstrated that a molecule secreted by SMUP-Cells is capable of polarizing inflammatory macrophages (M1) into their anti-inflammatory phenotype (M2) at the site of injury in a pain-associated osteoarthritis (OA) model. Lipopolysaccharide-stimulated macrophages co-cultured with SMUP-Cells expressed low levels of M1-phenotype markers (CD11b, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1α, and interleukin-6), but high levels of M2 markers (CD163 and arginase-1). To identify the paracrine action underlying the anti-inflammatory effect of SMUP-Cells, we employed a cytokine array and detected increased levels of pentraxin-related protein-3 (PTX-3). Additionally, PTX-3 mRNA silencing was applied to confirm PTX-3 function. PTX-3 silencing in SMUP-Cells significantly decreased their therapeutic effects against monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced OA. Thus, PTX-3 expression in injected SMUP-Cells, applied as a therapeutic strategy, reduced pain in an OA model.

Culture Degeneration Reduces Sex-Related Gene Expression, Alters Metabolite Production and Reduces Insect Pathogenic Response in Cordyceps militaris

Cordyceps militaris is an entomopathogenic ascomycete, known primarily for infecting lepidopteran larval (caterpillars) and pupal hosts. Cordycepin, a secondary metabolite produced by this fungus has anti-inflammatory properties and other pharmacological activities. However, little is known about the biological role of this adenosine derivate and its stabilising compound pentostatin in the context of insect infection the life cycle of C. militaris. During repeated subcultivation under laboratory conditions a degeneration of C. militaris marked by decreasing levels of cordycepin production can occur. Here, using degenerated and parental control strains of an isolate of C. militaris, we found that lower cordycepin production coincides with the decline in the production of various other metabolites as well as the reduced expression of genes related to sexual development. Additionally, infection of Galleria mellonella (greater wax moth) caterpillars indicated that cordycepin inhibits the immune response in host haemocytes. Accordingly, the pathogenic response to the degenerated strain was reduced. These data indicate that there are simultaneous changes in sexual reproduction, secondary metabolite production, insect immunity and infection by C. militaris. This study may have implications for biological control of insect crop pests by fungi.

Detection of knee synovitis using non-contrast-enhanced qDESS compared with contrast-enhanced MRI

Background

To assess diagnostic accuracy of quantitative double-echo in steady-state (qDESS) MRI for detecting synovitis in knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

Patients with different degrees of radiographic knee OA were included prospectively. All underwent MRI with both qDESS and contrast-enhanced T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (CE-MRI). A linear combination of the two qDESS images can be used to create an image that displays contrast between synovium and the synovial fluid. Synovitis on both qDESS and CE-MRI was assessed semi-quantitatively, using a whole-knee synovitis sum score, indicating no/equivocal, mild, moderate, and severe synovitis. The correlation between sum scores of qDESS and CE-MRI (reference standard) was determined using Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient and intraclass correlation coefficient for absolute agreement. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed to assess the diagnostic performance of qDESS for detecting different degrees of synovitis, with CE-MRI as reference standard.

Results

In the 31 patients included, very strong correlation was found between synovitis sum scores on qDESS and CE-MRI (ρ = 0.96, p < 0.001), with high absolute agreement (0.84 (95%CI 0.14–0.95)). Mean sum score (SD) values on qDESS 5.16 (3.75) were lower than on CE-MRI 7.13 (4.66), indicating systematically underestimated synovitis severity on qDESS. For detecting mild synovitis or higher, high sensitivity and specificity were found for qDESS (1.00 (95%CI 0.80–1.00) and 0.909 (0.571–1.00), respectively). For detecting moderate synovitis or higher, sensitivity and specificity were good (0.727 (95%CI 0.393–0.927) and 1.00 (0.800–1.00), respectively).

Conclusion

qDESS MRI is able to, however with an underestimation, detect synovitis in patients with knee OA.

Anti-inflammatory effects of cordycepin: A review

Cordycepin is the major bioactive component extracted from Cordyceps militaris. In recent years, cordycepin has received increasing attention owing to its multiple pharmacological activities. This study reviews recent researches on the anti-inflammatory effects and the related activities of cordycepin. The results from our review indicate that cordycepin exerts protective effects against inflammatory injury for many diseases including acute lung injury (ALI), asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, Parkinson's disease (PD), hepatitis, atherosclerosis, and atopic dermatitis. Cordycepin regulates the NF-κB, RIP2/Caspase-1, Akt/GSK-3β/p70S6K, TGF-β/Smads, and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathways among others. Several studies focusing on cordycepin derivatives were reviewed and found to down metabolic velocity of cordycepin and increase its bioavailability. Moreover, cordycepin enhanced immunity, inhibited the proliferation of viral RNA, and suppressed cytokine storms, thereby suggesting its potential to treat COVID-19 and other viral infections. From the collected and reviewed information, this article provides the theoretical basis for the clinical applications of cordycepin and discusses the path for future studies focusing on expanding the medicinal use of cordycepin. Taken together, cordycepin and its analogs show great potential as the next new class of anti-inflammatory agents.

Cordycepin, a metabolite of Cordyceps militaris, reduces immune-related gene expression in insects

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High doses of cordycepin are lethal to G. mellonella.

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Cordycepin interacts with EPF to increase the rate of G. mellonella mortality.

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Cordycepin reduces immune-related gene expression in G. mellonella and S2r+ cells.

Hypocrealean entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) (Sordariomycetes, Ascomycota) are natural regulators of insect populations in terrestrial environments. Their obligately-killing life-cycle means that there is likely to be strong selection pressure for traits that allow them to evade the effects of the host immune system. In this study, we quantified the effects of cordycepin (3′-deoxyadenosine), a secondary metabolite produced by Cordyceps militaris (Hypocreales, Cordycipitaceae), on insect susceptibility to EPF infection and on insect immune gene expression. Application of the immune stimulant curdlan (20 µg ml⁻¹, linear beta-1,3-glucan, a constituent of fungal cell walls) to Drosophila melanogaster S2r+ cells resulted in a significant increase in the expression of the immune effector gene metchnikowin compared to a DMSO-only control, but there was no significant increase when curdlan was co-applied with 25 µg ml⁻¹ cordycepin dissolved in DMSO. Injection of cordycepin into larvae of Galleria mellonella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) resulted in dose-dependent mortality (LC₅₀ of cordycepin = 2.1 mg per insect 6 days after treatment). Incubating conidia of C. militaris and Beauveria bassiana (Hypocreales, Cordycipitaceae; an EPF that does not synthesize cordycepin) with 3.0 mg ml⁻¹ cordycepin had no effect on the numbers of conidia germinating in vitro. Co-injection of G. mellonella with a low concentration of cordycepin (3.0 mg ml⁻¹) plus 10 or 100 conidia per insect of C. militaris or B. bassiana caused a significant decrease in insect median survival time compared to injection with the EPF on their own. Analysis of predicted vs. observed mortalities indicated a synergistic interaction between cordycepin and the EPF. The injection of C. militaris and B. bassiana into G. mellonella resulted in increased expression of the insect immune effector genes lysozyme, IMPI and gallerimycin at 72 h post injection, but this did not occur when the EPF were co-injected with 3.0 mg ml⁻¹ cordycepin. In addition, we observed increased expression of IMPI and lysozyme at 48 h after injection with C. militaris, B. bassiana and sham injection (indicating a wounding response), but this was also prevented by application of cordycepin. These results suggest that cordycepin has potential to act as a suppressor of the immune response during fungal infection of insect hosts.

Emerging Roles of RNA 3'-end Cleavage and Polyadenylation in Pathogenesis, Diagnosis and Therapy of Human Disorders

A crucial feature of gene expression involves RNA processing to produce 3′ ends through a process termed 3′ end cleavage and polyadenylation (CPA). This ensures the nascent RNA molecule can exit the nucleus and be translated to ultimately give rise to a protein which can execute a function. Further, alternative polyadenylation (APA) can produce distinct transcript isoforms, profoundly expanding the complexity of the transcriptome. CPA is carried out by multi-component protein complexes interacting with multiple RNA motifs and is tightly coupled to transcription, other steps of RNA processing, and even epigenetic modifications. CPA and APA contribute to the maintenance of a multitude of diverse physiological processes. It is therefore not surprising that disruptions of CPA and APA can lead to devastating disorders. Here, we review potential CPA and APA mechanisms involving both loss and gain of function that can have tremendous impacts on health and disease. Ultimately we highlight the emerging diagnostic and therapeutic potential CPA and APA offer.

Cordycepin Nanoencapsulated in Poly(Lactic-Co-Glycolic Acid) Exhibits Better Cytotoxicity and Lower Hemotoxicity Than Free Drug

Purpose

Cordycepin, a natural product isolated from the fungus Cordyceps militaris, is a potential candidate for breast cancer therapy. However, due to its structural similarity with adenosine, cordycepin is rapidly metabolized into an inactive form in the body, hindering its development as a therapeutic agent. In the present study, we have prepared cordycepin as nanoparticles in poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) and compared their cellular uptake, cytotoxicity and hemolytic potential with free cordycepin.

Materials and Methods

Cordycepin-loaded PLGA nanoparticles (CPNPs) were prepared by the double-emulsion solvent evaporation method. Physico-chemical characterization of the nanoparticles was done by zetasizer, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and reverse-phase high-pressure liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) analyses. Cellular uptake and cytotoxicity of CPNPs and free drug were tested in human breast cancer cells (MCF7). Hemolytic potential of both of these forms was evaluated in rat red blood cells (RBCs).

Results

Physico-chemical characterization revealed that CPNPs were spherical in shape, possessed a size range of 179–246 nm, and released the encapsulated drug sustainably over a period of 10 days. CPNPs exhibited a high level of cellular uptake and cytotoxicity than the free drug in MCF-7 cells. While CPNPs were not toxic to rat RBCs even at high concentrations, free cordycepin induced hemolysis of these cells at relatively low concentration.

Conclusion

Our results reveal that delivery as CPNPs could enhance the clinical efficacy of cordycepin substantially.

A novel nucleoside rescue metabolic pathway may be responsible for therapeutic effect of orally administered cordycepin

Although adenosine and its analogues have been assessed in the past as potential drug candidates due to the important role of adenosine in physiology, only little is known about their absorption following oral administration. In this work, we have studied the oral absorption and disposition pathways of cordycepin, an adenosine analogue. In vitro biopharmaceutical properties and in vivo oral absorption and disposition of cordycepin were assessed in rats. Despite the fact that numerous studies showed efficacy following oral dosing of cordycepin, we found that intact cordycepin was not absorbed following oral administration to rats. However, 3′-deoxyinosine, a metabolite of cordycepin previously considered to be inactive, was absorbed into the systemic blood circulation. Further investigation was performed to study the conversion of 3′-deoxyinosine to cordycepin 5′-triphosphate in vitro using macrophage-like RAW264.7 cells. It demonstrated that cordycepin 5′-triphosphate, the active metabolite of cordycepin, can be formed not only from cordycepin, but also from 3′-deoxyinosine. The novel nucleoside rescue metabolic pathway proposed in this study could be responsible for therapeutic effects of adenosine and other analogues of adenosine following oral administration. These findings may have importance in understanding the physiology and pathophysiology associated with adenosine, as well as drug discovery and development utilising adenosine analogues.