PI3K/Akt and apoptosis: size matters

RAD21 promotes oncogenesis and lethal progression of prostate cancer

Higher levels of aneuploidy, characterized by imbalanced chromosome numbers, are associated with lethal progression in prostate cancer. However, how aneuploidy contributes to prostate cancer aggressiveness remains poorly understood. In this study, we assessed in patients which genes on chromosome 8q, one of the most frequently gained chromosome arms in prostate tumors, were most strongly associated with long-term risk of cancer progression to metastases and death from prostate cancer (lethal disease) in 403 patients and found the strongest candidate was cohesin subunit gene, RAD21, with an odds ratio of 3.7 (95% CI 1.8, 7.6) comparing the highest vs. lowest tertiles of mRNA expression and adjusting for overall aneuploidy burden and Gleason score, both strong prognostic factors in primary prostate cancer. Studying prostate cancer driven by the TMPRSS2-ERG oncogenic fusion, found in about half of all prostate tumors, we found that increased RAD21 alleviated toxic oncogenic stress and DNA damage caused by oncogene expression. Data from both organoids and patients indicate that increased RAD21 thereby enables aggressive tumors to sustain tumor proliferation, and more broadly suggests one path through which tumors benefit from aneuploidy.

10-Eicosanol Alleviates Patulin-Induced Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptosis by Activating AKT (Protein Kinase B) in Porcine Intestinal Epithelial Cells

Patulin (PAT) is a fungal toxin prevalent in apples and apple products and associated with several toxic effects, potentially harming multiple organs, including the kidneys, liver, and colon. However, the precise molecular mechanism through which PAT affects the intestines remains comprehensively unclear. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the molecular effects of PAT on the intestinal epithelium. Gene expression profiling was conducted, hypothesizing that PAT induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis through the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. Cell cycle analysis, along with Annexin-V and propidium iodide staining, confirmed that PAT induced G2/M phase arrest and apoptosis in IPEC-J2 cells. Additionally, PAT activated the expression of cell cycle-related genes (CDK1, CCNB1) and apoptosis-related genes (BCL6, CASP9). Treatment with SC79, an AKT activator, mitigated cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. To identify natural products that could mitigate the harmful effects of PAT in small intestinal epithelial cells in pigs, the high-throughput screening of a natural product library was conducted, revealing 10-Eicosanol as a promising candidate. In conclusion, our study demonstrates that 10-Eicosanol alleviates PAT-induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in IPEC-J2 cells by activating AKT.

A novel chromone-based as a potential inhibitor of ULK1 that modulates autophagy and induces apoptosis in colon cancer

Aim: Chromones are promising for anticancer drug development.Methods & results: 12 chromone-based compounds were synthesized and tested against cancer cell lines. Compound 8 showed the highest cytotoxicity (LC50 3.2 μM) against colorectal cancer cells, surpassing 5-fluorouracil (LC50 4.2 μM). It suppressed colony formation, induced cell cycle arrest and triggered apoptotic cell death, confirmed by staining and apoptosis markers. Cell death was accompanied by enhanced reactive oxygen species formation and modulation of the autophagic machinery (autophagy marker light chain 3B (LC3B); adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK); protein kinase B (PKB); UNC-51-like kinase (ULK)-1; and ULK2). Molecular docking and dynamic simulations revealed that compound 8 directly binds to ULK1.Conclusion: Compound 8 is a promising lead for autophagy-modulating anti-colon cancer drugs.

Exendin-4, a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist, alleviates muscular dysfunction and wasting in a streptozotocin-induced diabetic mouse model compared to metformin

Diabetic muscular atrophy is becoming a fast-growing problem worldwide, including sarcopenia, which is associated with substantial mortality and morbidity risk. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) have been marketed and suggested to exert protective effects on not only glycemic control but also diabetic complications in diabetic patients. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic use of GLP-1RAs exendin-4, compared to antidiabetic drug metformin, for the intervention of muscular dysfunction during diabetic conditions using a streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mouse model. The results showed that both exendin-4 and metformin could effectively alleviate hyperglycemia in diabetic mice, and also counteract diabetes-induced muscle weight loss, weaker grip, and changes in muscle fiber cross-sectional area distribution. Unexpectedly, exendin-4, but not metformin, enhanced the increased kidney weight and histological change in diabetic mice. Taken together, these findings suggest that both exendin-4 and metformin could effectively improve the diabetic hyperglycemia and muscular dysfunction; but exendin-4 may aggravate the nephropathy in STZ-induced diabetic mice.

PTPRO inhibits LPS-induced apoptosis in alveolar epithelial cells

Acute lung injury (ALI) and its severe manifestation, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), represent critical clinical syndromes with multifactorial origins, notably stemming from sepsis within intensive care units (ICUs). Despite their high mortality rates, no selective cure is available beside ventilation support. Apoptosis plays a complex and pivotal role in the pathophysiology of acute lung injury. Excessive apoptosis of alveolar epithelial and microvascular endothelial cells can lead to disruption of lung epithelial barrier integrity, impairing the body's ability to exchange blood and gas. At the same time, apoptosis of damaged or dysfunctional cells, including endothelial and epithelial cells, can help maintain tissue integrity and accelerate recovery from organ pro-inflammatory stress. The balance between pro-survival and pro-apoptotic signals in lung injury determines patient outcomes, making the modulation of apoptosis an area of intense research in the quest for more effective therapies. Here we found that protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor type O (PTPRO), a poorly understood receptor-like protein tyrosine phosphatase, is consistently upregulated in multiple tissue types of mice under septic conditions and in the lung alveolar epithelial cells. PTPRO reduction by its selective short-interfering RNA (siRNA) leads to excessive apoptosis in lung alveolar epithelial cells without affecting cell proliferation. Consistently PTPRO overexpression by a DNA construct attenuates apoptotic signaling induced by LPS. These effects of PTPTO on cellular apoptosis are dependent on an ErbB2/PI3K/Akt/NFκB signaling pathway. Here we revealed a novel regulatory pathway of cellular apoptosis by PTPRO in lung alveolar epithelial cells during sepsis.

Fatty acid synthase: A key driver of ovarian cancer metastasis and a promising therapeutic target

Fatty acid synthase (FASN) is a critical enzyme essential for the production of fats in the body. The abnormal expression of FASN is associated with different types of malignancies, including ovarian cancer. FASN plays a crucial role in cell growth and survival as a metabolic oncogene, although the specific processes that cause its dysregulation are still unknown. FASN interacts with signaling pathways linked to the progression of cancer. Pharmacologically inhibiting or inactivating the FASN gene has shown potential in causing the death of cancer cells, offering a possible treatment approach. This review examines the function of FASN in ovarian cancer, namely its level of expression, influence on the advancement of the disease, and its potential as a target for therapeutic interventions.

Patulin alters alpha-adrenergic receptor signalling and induces epigenetic modifications in the kidneys of C57BL/6 mice

Patulin (PAT) is a food-borne mycotoxin produced by Penicillium and Byssochlamys species. It is widely known for its mutagenic, carcinogenic, and genotoxic effects and has been associated with kidney injury; however, the mechanism of toxicity remains unclear. To address this gap, we conducted a study to explore the changes in α-adrenergic receptor signalling pathways and epigenetic modifications induced by PAT in the kidneys of C57BL/6 mice during acute (1 day) and prolonged (10 days) exposure. The mice (20-22 g) were orally administered PAT (2.5 mg/kg; at 1 and 10 days), and post-treatment, the kidneys were harvested, homogenised and extracted for RNA, DNA, and protein. The relative gene expression of the α-adrenergic receptors (ADRA1, ADRA2A, ADRA2B) and associated signalling pathways (MAPK, MAPK14, ERK, PI3K, and AKT) was assessed by qPCR. The protein expression of ERK1/2 and MAPK was determined by western blot. The impact of PAT on DNA methylation was evaluated by quantifying global DNA methylation; qPCR was used to determine gene expression levels of DNA methyltransferases (DNMT1, DNMT3A, and DNMT3B) and demethylase (MBD2). PAT downregulated the expression of ADRA1, ADRA2A, ADRA2B, PI3K, and AKT and upregulated ERK1/2 and MAPK protein expression. Furthermore, PAT induced alterations in DNA methylation patterns by upregulating DNMT1 and MBD2 expressions and downregulating DNMT3A and DNMT3B expressions, resulting in global DNA hypomethylation. In conclusion, PAT disrupts α-1 and α-2 adrenergic receptor signalling pathways and induces epigenetic modifications, that can lead to kidney injury.

Submandibular Gland Pathogenesis Following SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Implications for Xerostomia

Although SARS-CoV-2 induces mucin hypersecretion in the respiratory tract, hyposalivation/xerostomia has been reported by COVID-19 patients. We evaluate the submandibular gland (SMGs) pathogenesis in SARS-CoV-2-infected K18-hACE2 mice, focusing on the impact of infection on the mucin production and structural integrity of acini, ductal system, myoepithelial cells (MECs) and telocytes. The spike protein, the nucleocapsid protein, hACE2, actin, EGF, TNF-α and IL-1β were detected by immunofluorescence, and the Egfr and Muc5b expression was evaluated. In the infected animals, significant acinar hypertrophy was observed in contrast to ductal atrophy. Nucleocapsid proteins and/or viral particles were detected in the SMG cells, mainly in the nuclear membrane-derived vesicles, confirming the nuclear role in the viral formation. The acinar cells showed intense TNF-α and IL-1β immunoexpression, and the EGF-EGFR signaling increased, together with Muc5b upregulation. This finding explains mucin hypersecretion and acinar hypertrophy, which compress the ducts. Dying MECs and actin reduction were also observed, indicating failure of contraction and acinar support, favoring acinar hypertrophy. Viral assembly was found in the dying telocytes, pointing to these intercommunicating cells as viral transmitters in SMGs. Therefore, EGF-EGFR-induced mucin hypersecretion was triggered by SARS-CoV-2 in acinar cells, likely mediated by cytokines. The damage to telocytes and MECs may have favored the acinar hypertrophy, leading to ductal obstruction, explaining xerostomia in COVID-19 patients. Thus, acinar cells, telocytes and MECs may be viral targets, which favor replication and cell-to-cell viral transmission in the SMG, corroborating the high viral load in saliva of infected individuals.

Multiomic ALS signatures highlight subclusters and sex differences suggesting the MAPK pathway as therapeutic target

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a debilitating motor neuron disease and lacks effective disease-modifying treatments. This study utilizes a comprehensive multiomic approach to investigate the early and sex-specific molecular mechanisms underlying ALS. By analyzing the prefrontal cortex of 51 patients with sporadic ALS and 50 control subjects, alongside four transgenic mouse models (C9orf72-, SOD1-, TDP-43-, and FUS-ALS), we have uncovered significant molecular alterations associated with the disease. Here, we show that males exhibit more pronounced changes in molecular pathways compared to females. Our integrated analysis of transcriptomes, (phospho)proteomes, and miRNAomes also identified distinct ALS subclusters in humans, characterized by variations in immune response, extracellular matrix composition, mitochondrial function, and RNA processing. The molecular signatures of human subclusters were reflected in specific mouse models. Our study highlighted the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway as an early disease mechanism. We further demonstrate that trametinib, a MAPK inhibitor, has potential therapeutic benefits in vitro and in vivo, particularly in females, suggesting a direction for developing targeted ALS treatments.

miR-122-5p Promotes Cowshed Particulate Matter2.5-Induced Apoptosis in NR8383 by Targeting COL4A1

It is well known that Particulate Matter2.5 (PM2.5) has a major adverse effect on the organism. However, the health hazards of livestock farm PM2.5 to humans and animals are not yet known, and the role of miRNAs in the cellular damage induced by livestock farm PM2.5 is also unclear. Therefore, our study used cowshed PM2.5 to stimulate rat alveolar macrophage NR8383 to construct an in vitro injury model to investigate the effect of miR-122-5p on PM2.5-induced apoptosis in the NR8383. The level of apoptosis was quantified by flow cytometry and Hoechst 33342/PI double staining. Furthermore, the potential target gene Collagen type IV alpha (COL4A1) of miR-122-5p was identified through the use of bioinformatics methods. The results demonstrated a decline in cell viability and an increase in apoptosis with rising PM2.5 concentrations and exposure durations. The transfection of miR-122-5p mimics resulted in an upregulation of the pro-apoptotic protein Bcl-xL/Bcl-2 and activation of cleaved caspase-3 while inhibiting the anti-apoptotic protein B-cell lymphoma-2. The experimental data indicate that miR-122-5p is involved in the apoptotic process by targeting COL4A1. Furthermore, the overexpression of COL4A1 was observed to enhance the PM2.5-activated PI3K/AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway, which contributed to the inhibition of apoptosis. This finding offers a promising avenue for the development of therapeutic strategies aimed at mitigating cellular damage induced by PM2.5 exposure.

Bacillus licheniformis ameliorates Aflatoxin B1-induced testicular damage by improving the gut-metabolism-testis axis

Global aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) contamination is inevitable, and it can significantly damage testicular development. However, the current mechanism is confusing. Here, by integrating the transcriptome, microbiome, and serum metabolome, we comprehensively explain the impact of AFB1 on testis from the gut-metabolism-testis axis. Transcriptome analysis suggested that AFB1 exposure directly causes abnormalities in testicular inflammation-related signalling, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) pathway, and proliferation-related signalling pathways, such as phosphatidylinositide 3-kinases-protein kinase B (PI3K-AKT) pathway, which was verified by immunofluorescence. On the other hand, we found that upregulated inflammatory factors in the intestine after AFB1 exposure were associated with intestinal microbial dysbiosis, especially the enrichment of Bacilli, and enrichment analysis showed that this may be related to NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3)-mediated NOD-like receptor signalling. Also, AFB1 exposure caused blood metabolic disturbances, manifested as decreased hormone levels and increased oxidative stress. Significantly, B. licheniformis has remarkable AFB1 degradation efficiency (> 90%). B. licheniformis treatment is effective in attenuating gut-testis axis damage caused by AFB1 exposure through the above-mentioned signalling pathways. In conclusion, our findings indicate that AFB1 exposure disrupts testicular development through the gut-metabolism-testis axis, and B. licheniformis can effectively degrade AFB1.

Protective Role of Rapamycin in Fibrotic Liver Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury (C57bl/6 Mouse)

BACKGROUND

Liver ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) is a well-documented phenomenon that occurs after liver resection and transplantation, posing a significant clinical challenge. We aim to contribute valuable insights into potential therapeutic interventions for fibrotic liver IRI, ultimately advancing our understanding of liver transplantation and resection outcomes.

METHODS

Twenty-four mice were divided randomly into 4 equal groups: [1] the normal group, n = 6; [2] the liver fibrosis (LF) group, n = 6; [3] the LF and IR group, n = 6; and [4] the LF with treatment of rapamycin and IR group; n = 6.

RESULTS

Key biomarkers assessing liver function, alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase, significantly decreased with Rapamycin administration. There is a substantial decrease observed in inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL) 6, IL-1B, tumor necrosis factor alpha, Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta), and Inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) with rapamycin treatment. Furthermore, NOX levels, caspase-3, and caspase-9 were reduced after rapamycin administration.

CONCLUSION

The application of rapamycin demonstrates appropriate effects in anti-inflammation, antioxidation, and anti-apoptosis, indicating significant therapeutic potential for fibrotic liver IRI.

N-Acetylcysteine Alleviates D-Galactose-Induced Injury of Ovarian Granulosa Cells in Female Rabbits by Regulating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR Signaling Pathway

The ovary plays a crucial role in the reproductive system of female animals. Ovarian problems such as ovarian insufficiency, premature aging, polycystic ovary syndrome, and ovarian cysts may lead to ovulation disorders, abnormal hormone secretion, or luteal dysfunction, thereby increasing the risk of infertility and abortion. Only when the ovarian function and other organs in the reproductive system remain healthy and work normally can female animals be ensured to carry out reproductive activities regularly, improve the pregnancy rate and litter size, promote the healthy development of the fetus, and then improve their economic value. The follicle, as the functional unit of the ovary, is composed of theca cells, granulosa cells (GCs), and oocytes. GCs are the largest cell population and main functional unit in follicles and provide the necessary nutrients for the growth and development of follicles. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a prevalent and cell-permeable antioxidant molecule that effectively prevents apoptosis and promotes cellular survival. Over the past few years, its function in boosting reproductive performance in animals at the cellular level has been widely acknowledged. However, its specific role and mechanism in influencing GCs is yet to be fully understood. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of NAC on ovarian damage in female rabbits. For this purpose, D-galactose (D-gal) was first used to establish a model of damaged GCs, with exposure to 1.5 mg/mL of D-gal leading to substantial damage. Subsequently, varying concentrations of NAC were introduced to determine the precise mechanism through which it influences cell damage. Based on the results of the Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, flow cytometry, and Western blotting, it was found that 0.5 mg/mL of NAC could significantly suppress cell apoptosis and promote proliferation. In particular, it decreased the expression levels of Bax, p53, and Caspase-9 genes, while concurrently upregulating the expression of the BCL-2 gene. Moreover, NAC was found to alleviate intracellular oxidative stress, suppress the discharge of mitochondrial Cytochrome c, and boost the enzymatic activities of CAT (Catalase), GSH (Glutathione), and SOD (Superoxide dismutase). RNA sequencing analysis subsequently underscored the critical role of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway in governing proliferation and apoptosis within GCs. These findings demonstrated that NAC could significantly influence gene expression within this pathway, thereby clarifying the exact relationship between the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling cascade and the underlying cellular processes controlling proliferation and apoptosis. In conclusion, NAC can reduce the expression of Bax, p53, and Caspase-9 genes, inhibit the apoptosis of GCs, improve cell viability, and resist D-gal-induced oxidative stress by increasing the activity of CAT, GSH, and SOD. The molecular mechanism of NAC in alleviating D-gal-induced ovarian GC injury in female rabbits by regulating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway provides experimental evidence for the effect of NAC on animal reproductive function at the cellular level.

TAN (tannic acid) inhibits BPA-induced pyroptosis of L8824 (grass carp hepatocytes) by regulating PTEN/PI3K/AKT pathway

Bisphenol A (BPA) and its analogues are still one of the most important substances that pollute aquatic systems and pose a threat to aquatic organisms. Tannic acid (TAN) is a kind of glycosyl compound, which has the functions of anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation and anti-apoptosis. However, it is unknown if BPA can regulate PTEN/PI3K/AKT pathway to induce pyroptosis of grass carp hepatocytes (L8824) and the antagonistic effect of tannic acid (TAN) through oxidative stress. Therefore, we established the grass carp hepatocytes (L8824) cell model treated with BPA. The oxidative stress indexes (SOD, CAT, GSH, H2O2 and T-AOC) were detected by oxidative stress kit, mRNA and protein expression of associated genes were examined using qRT-PCR and western blotting. The results showed that BPA treatment increased the content of hydrogen peroxide and decreased the activities of antioxidant enzymes and antioxidants (SOD, CAT, GSH, and T-AOC) in L8824 cells. We also found that PTEN/PI3K/AKT pathway was activated dramatically and the expression of pyroptosis-related genes (GSDMD, NLRP3, Caspase1, ASC and IL-1β) was increased significantly. In addition, TAN could significantly reduce the toxicity of BPA on L8824 cells. After the addition of PTEN specific inhibitor SF1670, the activation of PTEN/PI3K/AKT pathway decreased by BPA was inhibited and the expression of scorch related genes was decreased. On the whole, TAN inhibits BPA-induced pyroptosis of L8824 by modulating the PTEN/PI3K/AKT pathway. The present study provides a novel perspective for toxicological mechanism of BPA, and new insights into the detoxification mechanism of TAN.

DPPA2/4 Promote the Pluripotency and Proliferation of Bovine Extended Pluripotent Stem Cells by Upregulating the PI3K/AKT/GSK3β/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway

Developmental pluripotency-associated 2 (DPPA2) and DPPA4 are crucial transcription factors involved in maintaining pluripotency in humans and mice. However, the role of DPPA2/4 in bovine extended pluripotent stem cells (bEPSCs) has not been investigated. In this study, a subset of bEPSC-related differentially expressed genes (DEGs), including DPPA2 and DPPA4, was identified based on multiomics data (ATAC-seq and RNA-seq). Subsequent investigations revealed that double overexpression of DPPA2/4 facilitates the reprogramming of bovine fetal fibroblasts (BFFs) into bEPSCs, whereas knockout of DPPA2/4 in BFFs leads to inefficient reprogramming. DPPA2/4 overexpression and knockdown experiments revealed that the pluripotency and proliferation capability of bEPSCs were maintained by promoting the transition from the G1 phase to the S phase of the cell cycle. By activating the PI3K/AKT/GSK3β/β-catenin pathway in bEPSCs, DPPA2/4 can increase the nuclear accumulation of β-catenin, which further upregulates lymphoid enhancer binding factor 1 (LEF1) transcription factor activity. Moreover, DPPA2/4 can also regulate the expression of LEF1 by directly binding to its promoter region. Overall, our results demonstrate that DPPA2/4 promote the reprogramming of BFFs into bEPSCs while also maintaining the pluripotency and proliferation capability of bEPSCs by regulating the PI3K/AKT/GSK3β/β-catenin pathway and subsequently activating LEF1. These findings expand our understanding of the gene regulatory network involved in bEPSC pluripotency.

Expression of microRNAs related to apoptosis in the aqueous humor and lens capsule of patients with glaucoma

Background

The aim of this study is to investigate the expression profiles of microRNAs (miRNAs) related to apoptosis in the aqueous humor (AH) and lens capsule (LC) of patients with glaucoma.

Methods

AH and LC samples were collected from patients with open-angle glaucoma and control participants who were scheduled for cataract surgery. A miRNA PCR array comprising 84 miRNAs was used to analyze the AH (glaucoma, n = 3; control, n = 3) and LC samples (glaucoma, n = 3; control, n = 4). Additionally, the AH and LC samples (glaucoma, n = 3; control, n = 4) were subjected to quantitative real-time PCR to validate the differentially expressed miRNAs determined using the PCR array. Bioinformatics analysis was performed to identify the interactions between miRNAs and diseases. Additionally, the differential expression of these miRNAs and the target gene was validated through in vitro experiments using a retinal ganglion cell (RGC) model.

Results

Expression levels of 19 and 3 miRNAs were significantly upregulated in the AH and LC samples of the glaucoma group, respectively (p < 0.05). Of these, the expression levels of hsa-miR-193a-5p and hsa-miR-222-3p showed significant differences in both AH and LC samples. Bioinformatics analysis showed experimentally validated 8 miRNA:gene pairs. Among them, PTEN was selected to analyze the expression level in AH and LC from separate cohort (glaucoma, n = 5; control, n = 4). The result showed downregulation of PTEN concurrent with upregulation of the two miRNAs in LC samples of glaucoma group. In vitro experiments validated that the expression levels of hsa-miR-193a-5p and hsa-miR-222-3p were significantly upregulated, and that of PTEN was significantly downregulated in the H2O2-treated RGC, while the level of PTEN was recovered through co-treatment with miR-193a inhibitor or miR-222 inhibitor.

Conclusion

This is the first study to investigate the differential expression of apoptosis-related miRNAs in the AH and LC of patients with glaucoma. Hsa-miR-193a-5p and hsa-miR-222-3p, which were upregulated in both AH and LC, may be considered potential biomarkers for glaucoma.

Horizontal transfer of miR-383 sensitise cells to cisplatin by targeting VEGFA-Akt signalling loop

BACKGROUND

Cellular resistance to cisplatin has been one of the major obstacles in the success of combination therapy for many types of cancers. Emerging evidences suggest that exosomes released by drug resistant tumour cells play significant role in conferring resistance to drug sensitive cells by means of horizontal transfer of genetic materials such as miRNAs. Though exosomal miRNAs have been reported to confer drug resistance, the exact underlying mechanisms are still unclear.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In the present study, mature miRNAs secreted differentially by cisplatin resistant and cisplatin sensitive HepG2 cells were profiled and the effect of most significantly lowered miRNA in conferring cisplatin resistance when horizontally transferred, was analysed. we report miR-383 to be present at the lowest levels among the differentially abundant miRNAs expressed in exosomes secreted by cisplatin resistant cells compared to that that of cisplatin sensitive cells. We therefore, checked the effect of ectopic expression of miR-383 in altering cisplatin sensitivity of Hela cells. Drug sensitivity assay and apoptotic assays revealed that miR-383 could sensitise cells to cisplatin by targeting VEGF and its downstream Akt mediated pathway.

CONCLUSION

Results presented here provide evidence for the important role of miR-383 in regulating cisplatin sensitivity by modulating VEGF signalling loop upon horizontal transfer across different cell types.

Characterization, modes of interactions with DNA/BSA biomolecules and anti-tumor activity of newly synthesized dinuclear platinum(II) complexes with pyridazine bridging ligand

Platinum-based drugs are widely recognized efficient anti-tumor agents, but faced with multiple undesirable effects. Here, four dinuclear platinum(II) complexes, [{Pt(1,2-pn)Cl}2(μ-pydz)]Cl2 (C1), [{Pt(ibn)Cl}2(μ-pydz)]Cl2 (C2), [{Pt(1,3-pn)Cl}2(μ-pydz)]Cl2 (C3) and [{Pt(1,3-pnd)Cl}2(μ-pydz)]Cl2 (C4), were designed (pydz is pyridazine, 1,2-pn is ( ±)-1,2-propylenediamine, ibn is 1,2-diamino-2-methylpropane, 1,3-pn is 1,3-propylenediamine, and 1,3-pnd is 1,3-pentanediamine). Interactions and binding ability of C1-C4 complexes with calf thymus DNA (CT-DNA) has been monitored by viscosity measurements, UV-Vis, fluorescence emission spectroscopy and molecular docking. Binding affinities of C1-C4 complexes to the bovine serum albumin (BSA) has been monitored by fluorescence emission spectroscopy. The tested complexes exhibit variable cytotoxicity toward different mouse and human tumor cell lines. C2 shows the most potent cytotoxicity, especially against mouse (4T1) and human (MDA-MD468) breast cancer cells in the dose- and time-dependent manner. C2 induces 4T1 and MDA-MD468 cells apoptosis, further documented by the accumulation of cells at sub-G1 phase of cell cycle and increase of executive caspase 3 and caspase 9 levels in 4T1 cells. C2 exhibits anti-proliferative effect through the reduction of cyclin D3 and cyclin E expression and elevation of inhibitor p27 level. Also, C2 downregulates c-Myc and phosphorylated AKT, oncogenes involved in the control of tumor cell proliferation and death. In order to measure the amount of platinum(II) complexes taken up by the cells, the cellular platinum content were quantified. However, C2 failed to inhibit mouse breast cancer growth in vivo. Chemical modifications of tested platinum(II) complexes might be a valuable approach for the improvement of their anti-tumor activity, especially effects in vivo.

Identifying the function of the PI3K-AKT pathway during the pathogenic infection of Macrobrachium rosenbergii

The phosphoinositide-3-kinase/protein kinase b (PI3K-Akt) pathway is a signalling pathway based on protein phosphorylation and can be activated by a wide range of factors. To investigate the function of the PI3K-AKT signalling pathway in antibacterial immunity, we analysed the gene expression level of three key factors (PI3K, AKT and FoxO) and innate immune factors in immune tissues at different time points after Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Staphylococcus aureus infection. Tissues analysis showed that PI3K, AKT, and FoxO were expressed at high levels in the intestinal, hemocytes and hepatopancreas. Moreover, the expression levels of PI3K, AKT and FoxO can be regulated postinfection by different pathogens. In hemocytes and the intestine, V. parahaemolyticus infection was found to regulate the levels of PI3K, AKT, and FoxO more rapidly; however, an S. aureus infection regulated the levels of these factors more rapidly in the hepatopancreas and gills. Analysis showed that V. parahaemolyticus and S. aureus infection caused changes in the gene expression level of crustin, caspase 3 and NF-κB. Therefore, PI3K-AKT regulates the downstream immune pathway differentially in different immune tissues and participates in the regulation of cell apoptosis and the inflammatory response by activating caspase and NF-κB, respectively, following infection with V. parahaemolyticus and S. aureus.

Divergent roles of the regulatory subunits of class IA PI3K

The regulatory subunit of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), known as p85, is a critical component in the insulin signaling pathway. Extensive research has shed light on the diverse roles played by the two isoforms of p85, namely p85α and p85β. The gene pik3r1 encodes p85α and its variants, p55α and p50α, while pik3r2 encodes p85β. These isoforms exhibit various activities depending on tissue types, nutrient availability, and cellular stoichiometry. Whole-body or liver-specific deletion of pik3r1 have shown to display increased insulin sensitivity and improved glucose homeostasis; however, skeletal muscle-specific deletion of p85α does not exhibit any significant effects on glucose homeostasis. On the other hand, whole-body deletion of pik3r2 shows improved insulin sensitivity with no significant impact on glucose tolerance. Meanwhile, liver-specific double knockout of pik3r1 and pik3r2 leads to reduced insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance. In the context of obesity, upregulation of hepatic p85α or p85β has been shown to improve glucose homeostasis. However, hepatic overexpression of p85α in the absence of p50α and p55α results in increased insulin resistance in obese mice. p85α and p85β have distinctive roles in cancer development. p85α acts as a tumor suppressor, but p85β promotes tumor progression. In the immune system, p85α facilitates B cell development, while p85β regulates T cell differentiation and maturation. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the distinct functions attributed to p85α and p85β, highlighting their significance in various physiological processes, including insulin signaling, cancer development, and immune system regulation.

Paraquat and Parkinson's Disease: The Molecular Crosstalk of Upstream Signal Transduction Pathways Leading to Apoptosis

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a heterogeneous disease involving a complex interaction between genes and the environment that affects various cellular pathways and neural networks. Several studies have suggested that environmental factors such as exposure to herbicides, pesticides, heavy metals, and other organic pollutants are significant risk factors for the development of PD. Among the herbicides, paraquat has been commonly used, although it has been banned in many countries due to its acute toxicity. Although the direct causational relationship between paraquat exposure and PD has not been established, paraquat has been demonstrated to cause the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta. The underlying mechanisms of the dopaminergic lesion are primarily driven by the generation of reactive oxygen species, decrease in antioxidant enzyme levels, neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and ER stress, leading to a cascade of molecular crosstalks that result in the initiation of apoptosis. This review critically analyses the crucial upstream molecular pathways of the apoptotic cascade involved in paraquat neurotoxicity, including mitogenactivated protein kinase (MAPK), phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT, mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways.

Apoptosis-inducing, anti-angiogenic and anti-migratory effects of a dinuclear Pd(II) complex on breast cancer: A promising novel compound

Because of the high mortality and morbidity rate of breast cancer, successful management of the disease requires synthesis of novel compounds. To this end, ongoing attempts to create new candidates include synthesis of multinuclear metal complexes. The high DNA binding affinity and cytotoxic activity of these complexes makes them promising as breast cancer treatments. This study investigated anti-growth/cytotoxic effect of the dinuclear Pd(II) complex on breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7, MDA-MB-231) using various methods of staining, flow cytometry, and immunoblotting. The study conducted colony formation, invasion, and migration assays were to assess the effect of the complex on metastasis. Increased caspase-3/7 levels and positive annexin V staining were observed in both cell lines, proving apoptosis. Altered TNFR1 and TRADD expression with caspase-8 cleavage followed by BCL-2 inactivation with loss of mitochondrial membrane potential confirmed the presence of apoptosis in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231, regardless of p53 expression status. The results implied anti-migration properties. Finally, the study used the CAM assay to assess antiangiogenic properties and showed that the complex inhibited angiogenesis. The study concluded the dinuclear Pd(II) complex warrants further in vivo experiments to show its potential in the treatment of breast cancer.

The Inhibitory Effect of Geraniol on CCL4-induced Hepatorenal Toxicity in Pregnant Mice through the PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway

Background

Hepatotoxicity caused by CCL4 is well known. Geraniol (GNL) has high antioxidant effect that can induces liver regeneration. However, the protective effect of GNL effect on CCL4-induced hepatorenal toxicity in pregnant mice has not yet been studied.

Objective

To investigate whether GNL could protect against oxidative stress induced by CCL4 via the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway, which is regulated by phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT), and has been found to have protective effects on renal and hepatic tissues.

Materials and Methods

Forty-eight female albino mice weighing 25-30 g were randomly allocated to 4 groups: Group I served as a control; Group II received a toxicity-inducing single dose of 15 μL of CCL4 on the 4th day after mating; Group III received 40 mg/kg GNL + CCL4 (with GNL from the 1st day of assimilation to delivery); and Group IV received GNL alone from the 1st day of assimilation to the end of the delivery period. GNL was evaluated for its protective effects on hepatotoxicity in CCL4-treated pregnant mice. Litter size, weight, survival rate, and resorption were recorded. In addition, H & E staining was done for liver and kidney pathology as well as biochemical markers and oxidative markers malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, and catalase were analyzed.

Results

CCL4 significantly reduced survival rate and increased resorption after exposure. Alanine transaminase and aspartate aminotransferase concentrations in the serum, tissue MDA, blood urea nitrogen, and creatinine were increased after CCL4 exposure. GNL improved enzyme and antioxidant levels and prevented CCL4-induced hepatic injury in mice. Caspase-3 cleavage was decreased by GNL, which increased PI3K, phosphorylated AKT, Nrf2, and B-cell lymphoma 2.

Conclusion

GNL demonstrates a protective effect against CCl4-induced hepatorenal toxicity, mediated through the activation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and the upregulation of Nrf2. These findings highlight the potential therapeutic implications of GNL in mitigating oxidative stress and inflammation in liver and kidney tissues.

Endoxifen downregulates AKT phosphorylation through protein kinase C beta 1 inhibition in ERα+ breast cancer

Endoxifen, a secondary tamoxifen metabolite, is a potent antiestrogen exhibiting estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) binding at nanomolar concentrations. Phase I/II clinical trials identified clinical activity of Z-endoxifen (ENDX), in endocrine-refractory metastatic breast cancer as well as ERα+ solid tumors, raising the possibility that ENDX may have a second, ERα-independent, mechanism of action. An unbiased mass spectrometry approach revealed that ENDX concentrations achieved clinically with direct ENDX administration (5 µM), but not low concentrations observed during tamoxifen treatment (<0.1 µM), profoundly altered the phosphoproteome of the aromatase expressing MCF7AC1 cells with limited impact on the total proteome. Computational analysis revealed protein kinase C beta (PKCβ) and protein kinase B alpha or AKT1 as potential kinases responsible for mediating ENDX effects on protein phosphorylation. ENDX more potently inhibited PKCβ1 kinase activity compared to other PKC isoforms, and ENDX binding to PKCβ1 was confirmed using Surface Plasma Resonance. Under conditions that activated PKC/AKT signaling, ENDX induced PKCβ1 degradation, attenuated PKCβ1-activated AKTSer473 phosphorylation, diminished AKT substrate phosphorylation, and induced apoptosis. ENDX's effects on AKT were phenocopied by siRNA-mediated PKCβ1 knockdown or treatment with the pan-AKT inhibitor, MK-2206, while overexpression of constitutively active AKT diminished ENDX-induced apoptosis. These findings, which identify PKCβ1 as an ENDX target, indicate that PKCβ1/ENDX interactions suppress AKT signaling and induce apoptosis in breast cancer.

Recombinant human erythropoietin protects against immature brain damage induced by hypoxic/ischemia insult

To investigate the neuroprotection of recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEPO) against hypoxic/ischemic (HI) insult in three-day-old rats. Postnatal day 3 (PD3) rats were randomly divided into three groups: Sham group, HI group and HI+rhEPO group. Ligation of the right common carotid artery and hypoxia to induce HI brain injury. After HI insult, the rats received intraperitoneal injection of rhEPO (5000 IU/Kg, qod) in HI+rhEPO group or equal saline in other groups. On PD10, damage of brain tissue was examined by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, observation of neuronal apoptosis in the hippocampus and cortex using immunofluorescence assay (marker: TUNEL). Immunohistochemical staining or western blotting was performed to detect the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), Caspase-3 and phosphorylated Akt (p-Akt) protein. On PD28, cognitive ability of rats was assessed by Morris water maze test. HI injury causes brain pathological morphology and cognitive function damage in PD3 rats, which can be alleviated by rhEPO intervention. Compared with the HI group, the HI+rhEPO group showed an increase in platform discovery rate and cross platform frequency, while the search platform time was shortened (P < 0.05). The proportion of TUNEL positive neurons and the expression of COX-2 and Caspase-3 proteins in brain tissue in the hippocampus and cortex was decreased, while the expression of p-Akt protein was upregulated (P < 0.05). RhEPO could protect against the pathological and cognitive impairment of immature brain induced by HI insult. This neuroprotective activity may involve in inhibiting inflammatory and apoptosis by activation of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.

A multi-layered network model identifies Akt1 as a common modulator of neurodegeneration

The accumulation of misfolded and aggregated proteins is a hallmark of neurodegenerative proteinopathies. Although multiple genetic loci have been associated with specific neurodegenerative diseases (NDs), molecular mechanisms that may have a broader relevance for most or all proteinopathies remain poorly resolved. In this study, we developed a multi-layered network expansion (MLnet) model to predict protein modifiers that are common to a group of diseases and, therefore, may have broader pathophysiological relevance for that group. When applied to the four NDs Alzheimer's disease (AD), Huntington's disease, and spinocerebellar ataxia types 1 and 3, we predicted multiple members of the insulin pathway, including PDK1, Akt1, InR, and sgg (GSK-3β), as common modifiers. We validated these modifiers with the help of four Drosophila ND models. Further evaluation of Akt1 in human cell-based ND models revealed that activation of Akt1 signaling by the small molecule SC79 increased cell viability in all models. Moreover, treatment of AD model mice with SC79 enhanced their long-term memory and ameliorated dysregulated anxiety levels, which are commonly affected in AD patients. These findings validate MLnet as a valuable tool to uncover molecular pathways and proteins involved in the pathophysiology of entire disease groups and identify potential therapeutic targets that have relevance across disease boundaries. MLnet can be used for any group of diseases and is available as a web tool at http://ssbio.cau.ac.kr/software/mlnet.

Circular RNA as new serum metabolic biomarkers in patients with premature ovarian insufficiency

OBJECTIVE

Quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) is used to detect the differential expression of circular RNAs in patients of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), to explore the new biomarkers of POI that can be detected from blood as soon as possible.

METHODS

The study collected plasma samples from 30 patients in POI group and 30 normal people group who meet the inclusion criteria, who visited the gynecology clinic of The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine from July 2019 to December 2020. Then, circRNAs in plasma were extracted for qPCR validation.

RESULTS

1. qPCR technology was performed on hsa_circRNA_008901 and hsa_circRNA_403959, and it was found that the levels of both were considerably downregulated in POI group. Clinical evaluation showed that both hsa_circRNA_008901 and hsa_circRNA_403959 have good diagnostic value for POI. 2. According to miRNA Regulatory Element (MRE) analysis, the predicted target miRNAs of hsa_circRNA_008901 are: hsa-miR-548c-3p, hsa-miR-924, hsa-miR-4677-5p, hsa-miR-6786-3p and hsa-miR-7974; the predicted target miRNAs of hsa_circRNA_403959 are: hsa-miR-1207-5p, hsa-miR-4691-5p, hsa-miR-4763-3p, hsa-miR-6807-5p and hsa-miR-7160-5p.

CONCLUSION

Compared with the normal group, the expression levels of hsa_circRNA_008901 and hsa_circRNA_403959 in the POI group were downregulated, suggesting that these two circRNAs may be potential biomarkers of POI. Bioinformatics analysis indicated that hsa_circRNA_008901 and hsa_circRNA_403959 may regulate their binding miRNA through the action form of "molecular sponge", and then regulate the signaling pathway regulated by miRNA, and ultimately affect the disease progression of POI.

Advances of phytotherapy in ischemic stroke targeting PI3K/Akt signaling

The pathogenesis of ischemic stroke is complex, and PI3K/Akt signaling is considered to play a crucial role in it. The PI3K/Akt pathway regulates inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, autophagy, and vascular endothelial homeostasis after cerebral ischemia; therefore, drug research targeting the PI3K/Akt pathway has become the focus of scientists. In this review, we analyzed the research reports of antiischemic stroke drugs targeting the PI3K/Akt pathway in the past two decades. Because of the rich sources of natural products, increasing studies have explored the value of natural compounds, including Flavonoids, Quinones, Alkaloids, Phenylpropanoids, Phenols, Saponins, and Terpenoids, in alleviating neurological impairment and achieved satisfactory results. Herbal extracts and medicinal formulas have been applied in the treatment of ischemic stroke for thousands of years in East Asian countries. These precious clinical experiences provide a new avenue for research of antiischemic stroke drugs. Finally, we summarize and discuss the characteristics and shortcomings of the current research and put forward prospects for further in-depth exploration.

Keeping the Heart Healthy: The Role of Exercise in Cardiac Repair and Regeneration

Significance: Heart failure is often accompanied by a decrease in the number of cardiomyocytes. Although the adult mammalian hearts have limited regenerative capacity, the rate of regeneration is extremely low and decreases with age. Exercise is an effective means to improve cardiovascular function and prevent cardiovascular diseases. However, the molecular mechanisms of how exercise acts on cardiomyocytes are still not fully elucidated. Therefore, it is important to explore the role of exercise in cardiomyocytes and cardiac regeneration. Recent Advances: Recent advances have shown that the effects of exercise on cardiomyocytes are critical for cardiac repair and regeneration. Exercise can induce cardiomyocyte growth by increasing the size and number. It can induce physiological cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, inhibit cardiomyocyte apoptosis, and promote cardiomyocyte proliferation. In this review, we have discussed the molecular mechanisms and recent studies of exercise-induced cardiac regeneration, with a focus on its effects on cardiomyocytes. Critical Issues: There is no effective way to promote cardiac regeneration. Moderate exercise can keep the heart healthy by encouraging adult cardiomyocytes to survive and regenerate. Therefore, exercise could be a promising tool for stimulating the regenerative capability of the heart and keeping the heart healthy. Future Directions: Although exercise is an important measure to promote cardiomyocyte growth and subsequent cardiac regeneration, more studies are needed on how to do beneficial exercise and what factors are involved in cardiac repair and regeneration. Thus, it is important to clarify the mechanisms, pathways, and other critical factors involved in the exercise-mediated cardiac repair and regeneration. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 39, 1088-1107.

Targeting cellular metabolism in head and neck cancer precision medicine era: A promising strategy to overcome therapy resistance

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is among the most prevalent cancer worldwide, with the most severe impact on quality of life of patients. Despite the development of multimodal therapeutic approaches, the clinical outcomes of HNSCC are still unsatisfactory, mainly caused by relatively low responsiveness to treatment and severe drug resistance. Metabolic reprogramming is currently considered to play a pivotal role in anticancer therapeutic resistance. This review aimed to define the specific metabolic programs and adaptations in HNSCC therapy resistance. An extensive literature review of HNSCC was conducted via the PubMed including metabolic reprogramming, chemo- or immune-therapy resistance. Glucose metabolism, fatty acid metabolism, and amino acid metabolism are closely related to the malignant biological characteristics of cancer, anti-tumor drug resistance, and adverse clinical results. For HNSCC, pyruvate, lactate and almost all lipid categories are related to the occurrence and maintenance of drug resistance, and targeting amino acid metabolism can prevent tumor development and enhance the response of drug-resistant tumors to anticancer therapy. This review will provide a better understanding of the altered metabolism in therapy resistance of HNSCC and promote the development of new therapeutic strategies against HNSCC, thereby contribute to a more efficacious precision medicine.

Apoptosis and long non-coding RNAs: Focus on their roles in Heart diseases

Heart disease is one of the principal death reasons around the world and there is a growing requirement to discover novel healing targets that have the potential to avert or manage these illnesses. On the other hand, apoptosis is a strongly controlled, cell removal procedure that has a crucial part in numerous cardiac problems, such as reperfusion injury, MI (myocardial infarction), consecutive heart failure, and inflammation of myocardium. Completely comprehending the managing procedures of cell death signaling is critical as it is the primary factor that influences patient mortality and morbidity, owing to cardiomyocyte damage. Indeed, the prevention of heart cell death appears to be a viable treatment approach for heart illnesses. According to current researches, a number of long non-coding RNAs cause the heart cells death via different methods that are embroiled in controlling the activity of transcription elements, the pathways that signals transmission within cells, small miRNAs, and the constancy of proteins. When there is too much cell death in the heart, it can cause problems like reduced blood flow, heart damage after restoring blood flow, heart disease in diabetics, and changes in the heart after reduced blood flow. Therefore, studying how lncRNAs control apoptosis could help us find new treatments for heart diseases. In this review, we present recent discoveries about how lncRNAs are involved in causing cell death in different cardiovascular diseases.

MenSCs Transplantation Improve the Viability of Injured Endometrial Cells Through Activating PI3K/Akt Pathway

Endometrial injury is one of the leading causes of female infertility and is caused by intrauterine surgery, endometrial infection, repeated abortion, or genital tuberculosis. Currently, there is little effective treatment to restore the fertility of patients with severe intrauterine adhesions and thin endometrium. Recent studies have confirmed the promising therapeutic effects of mesenchymal stem cell transplantation on various diseases with definite tissue injury. The aim of this study is to investigate the improvements of menstrual blood-derived endometrial stem cells (MenSCs) transplantation on functional restoration in the endometrium of mouse model. Therefore, ethanol-induced endometrial injury mouse models were randomly divided into two groups: the PBS-treated group, and the MenSCs-treated group. As expected, the endometrial thickness and gland number in the endometrium of MenSCs-treated mice were significantly improved compared to those of PBS-treated mice (P < 0.05), and fibrosis levels were significantly reduced (P < 0.05). Subsequent results revealed that MenSCs treatment significantly promoted angiogenesis in the injured endometrium. Simultaneously, MenSCs enhance the proliferation and antiapoptotic capacity of endometrial cells, which is likely contributed by activating the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Further tests also confirmed the chemotaxis of GFP-labeled MenSCs towards the injured uterus. Consequently, MenSCs treatment significantly improved the pregnant mice and the number of embryos in pregnant mice. This study confirmed the superior improvements of MenSCs transplantation on the injured endometrium and uncovered the potential therapeutic mechanism, which provides a promising alternative for patients with serious endometrial injury.

Investigating the Underlying Mechanisms of Ardisia japonica Extract's Anti-Blood-Stasis Effect via Metabolomics and Network Pharmacology

OBJECTIVE

Our study aims to assess Ardisia japonica (AJ)'s anti-blood-stasis effect and its underlying action mechanisms.

METHODS

The primary components of AJ were determined using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). The blood stasis model was used to investigate the anti-blood-stasis effect of AJ extract. The underlying mechanisms of AJ against blood stasis were investigated via network pharmacology, molecular docking, and plasma non-targeted metabolomics.

RESULTS

In total, 94 compounds were identified from an aqueous extract of AJ, including terpenoids, phenylpropanoids, alkaloids, and fatty acyl compounds. In rats with blood stasis, AJ reduced the area of stasis, decreased the inflammatory reaction in the liver and lungs of rats, lowered the plasma viscosity, increased the index of erythrocyte deformability, and decreased the index of erythrocyte aggregation, suggesting that AJ has an anti-blood-stasis effect. Different metabolites were identified via plasma untargeted metabolomics, and it was found that AJ exerts its anti-blood-stasis effect by reducing inflammatory responses through the cysteine and methionine metabolism, linolenic acid metabolism, and sphingolipid metabolism. For the effect of AJ on blood stasis syndrome, the main active ingredients predicted via network pharmacology include sinensetin, galanin, isorhamnetin, kaempferol, wogonin, quercetin, and bergenin, and their targets were TP53, HSP90AA1, VEGFA, AKT1, EGFR, and PIK3CA that were mainly enriched in the PI3K/AKT and MAPK signaling pathways, which modulate the inflammatory response. Molecular docking was also performed, and the binding energies of these seven compounds to six proteins were less than -5, indicating that the chemical components bind to the target proteins.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests AJ effectively prevents blood stasis by reducing inflammation.

Circulatory extracellular vesicle derived miR-195-5p promotes cellular apoptosis and suppresses cell proliferation in the buffalo endometrial primary cell culture

In pregnant animals, communication between the mother and conceptus occurs via extracellular vesicles (EVs) that carry several biomolecules such as nucleic acids (miRNAs, mRNAs), proteins, and lipids. At the time of implantation, the endometrium undergoes several morphological and physiological changes, such as angiogenesis, apoptosis, and cell proliferation regulation at the implantation site, to attain a receptive state. This study was conducted to detect pregnancy-specific miRNAs derived from extracellular vesicles in the systemic circulation of Bubalus bubalis (water buffalo) and to assess their functional significance in the modulation of endometrial primary cells. The extracellular vesicles were isolated from the blood plasma using a precipitation-based method and further characterized by various methods such as Differential light scattering, Nanoparticle tracking assay, Western blot, and transmission electron microscopy. The relative expression of the selected extracellular vesicles associated miRNAs (EV-miRNA) at different intervals (days 15, 19, 25, and 30) post artificial insemination (AI) was analyzed using RT-qPCR, and expression of miR-195-5p was found to be significantly higher (P < 0.01) in pregnant animals on day 19 post AI (implantation window) as compared to day 15 post AI. The elevated expression might indicate the involvement of this miRNA in the maternal-conceptus cross-talk occurring during the implantation period. The KEGG pathway enrichment and Gene Ontology analyses of the miR-195-5p target genes revealed that these were mostly involved in the PI3-Akt, MAPK, cell cycle, ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis, and mTOR signaling pathways, which are related to the regulation of cell proliferation. Transfecting the in vitro cultured cells with miR-195-5p mimic significantly suppressed (P < 0.05) the expression of its target genes such as YWHAQ, CDC27, AKT-3, FGF-7, MAPK8, SGK1, VEGFA, CACAND1, CUL2, MKNK1, and CACAN2D1. Furthermore, the downregulation of the miR-195-5p target genes was positively correlated with a significant increase in the apoptotic rate and a decrease in the proliferation. In conclusion, the current findings provide vital information on the presence of EV miR-195-5p in maternal circulation during the implantation window indicating its important role in the modulation of buffalo endometrium epithelial cells via promoting cell death. Altogether, the milieu of miR-195-5p may serve as a novel and potential molecular factor facilitating the implantation of the early embryo during the establishment of pregnancy in buffaloes. Thus, miR-195-5p may be identified as a unique circulatory EV biomarker related to establishing pregnancy in buffaloes as early as day 19 post-AI.

Hesperidin ameliorates impairment in hippocampal neural stem cells related to apoptosis induced by methotrexate in adult rats

Neurogenesis is a process of generating neural stem cells (NSCs) as functional neurons can be decreased after chemotherapy treatments. Methotrexate (MTX) is a folate antagonist that is used for cancer treatment but has negative effects, including oxidative stress, neuronal apoptosis and cognitive impairments. Hesperidin (Hsd), a flavonoid found in citrus fruits, has antioxidant and neuroprotection properties. This study investigated whether Hsd could attenuate impairments of hippocampal neural stem cells related to apoptosis induced by MTX. Spraque-Dawley rats (n = 24) were divided into 4 groups: (1) Vehicle group received propylene glycol (21 days) and 0.9% normal saline (day 8 and 15), (2) Hsd group received 100 mg/kg (21 days), (3) MTX group received 75 mg/kg (days 8 and 15) and (4) MTX+Hsd group received MTX, 75 mg/kg (day 8 and 15) and Hsd 100 mg/kg (21 days). Our results showed that MTX decreased hippocampal neural stem cells including SRY (sex determining region Y)-box 2 (SOX2) and nestin. MTX diminished vascular related (VR) Ki-67 positive cells in the hippocampus but not non-vascular related (NVR) Ki-67. Additionally, MTX reduced SOX2, nestin, postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD-95) and B-cell lymphoma-2 family of proteins (Bcl-2), whereas Bax and caspase-3 were enhanced in the hippocampal tissues. Interestingly, co-treatment with Hsd and MTX revealed upregulation of SOX2, nestin and VR Ki-67 positive cells as well as elevated SOX2, nestin, PSD-95 and Bcl-2 proteins. Moreover, receiving both Hsd and MTX significantly suppressed increased Bax and caspase-3. These results confirm that Hsd can ameliorate MTX-induced impairments of hippocampal NSC proliferation and neuronal apoptosis.

Mitoquinone Alleviates Donation after Cardiac Death Kidney Injury during Hypothermic Machine Perfusion in Rat Model

Transplanted organs are subjected to harmful conditions through stopping blood flow, hypothermic storage of the graft, and subsequent reperfusion. In particular, kidneys donated from patients after cardiac arrest (DCD) are classified as more vulnerable to ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI). Hypothermic machine perfusion is proposed as a solution for better kidney storage before transplantation, and it is a good platform for additional graft treatment. Antioxidants have gained interest in regenerative medicine due to their ability to scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS), which play a key role in IRI. We evaluated the effect of Mitoquinone (MitoQ), a strong mitochondria-targeted antioxidant, administered directly to the perfusing buffer. Rat kidneys were isolated, randomly classified into one of the following groups, donation after brainstem death (DBD), DCD, and DCD with MitoQ, and perfused for 22 hours with a hypothermic machine perfusion system. Subsequently, we detected levels of kidney injury (KIM-1) and oxidative stress (ROS/RNS, cytochrome C oxidase, and mitochondrial integrity) markers. We compared the activation of the apoptosis pathway (caspase 3 and 9), the concentration of phosphorylated Akt (pAkt), and the pAkt/total Akt ratio. MitoQ reduces KIM-1 concentration, total ROS/RNS, and the level of caspases. We observed a decrease in pAkt and the pAkt/total Akt ratio after drug administration. The length of warm ischemia time negatively impacts the graft condition. However, MitoQ added to the perfusing system as an 'on pump' therapy mitigates injury to the kidney before transplantation by inhibiting apoptosis and reducing ROS/RNS levels. We propose MitoQ as a potential drug for DCD graft preconditioning.

Sanikovich V, S. Rusanov A, N. Pirogova Y, Boroda A, Rozhkov A, Kemfang Ngowa JD, N. Bagmet L, I. Sekacheva M. Angiogenesis in Lung Cancer: Understanding the Roles of Growth Factors

Research has shown the role of growth factors in lung cancer angiogenesis. Angiogenesis promotes lung cancer progression by stimulating tumor growth, enhancing tumor invasion, contributing to metastasis, and modifying immune system responses within the tumor microenvironment. As a result, new treatment techniques based on the anti-angiogenic characteristics of compounds have been developed. These compounds selectively block the growth factors themselves, their receptors, or the downstream signaling pathways activated by these growth factors. The EGF and VEGF families are the primary targets in this approach, and several studies are being conducted to propose anti-angiogenic drugs that are increasingly suitable for the treatment of lung cancer, either as monotherapy or as combined therapy. The efficacy of the results are encouraging, but caution must be placed on the higher risk of toxicity, outlining the importance of personalized follow-up in the management of these patients.

Combinatorial Effects of miRNAs in HSV-2 Infection of Macrophages: An In Silico and In Vitro Integration Approach

The rising issues of herpes simplex virus (HSV)-2 drug ramifications have encouraged the researchers to look for new and alternative approaches that pose minimum adversities in the host while efficiently reducing the HSV-2 infection. Although microRNAs (miRNAs), as unorthodox approaches, are gaining popularity due to eliciting highly reduced immunogenic reactions, their implications in HSV-2 research have been rarely explored. In this study, a pool of cellular miRNAs with significance in HSV-2-induced inflammatory and immune responses have been identified. Computationally recognizing the host targets of these miRNAs through network biology and machine learning, in vitro validation has been addressed along with the identification of their regulation in the HSV-2 infection. To signify the role of these identified miRNAs, they have been individually ectopically expressed in macrophages. The ectopic expression of the individual miRNAs was able to suppress HSV-2 viral gene expression. Taking a step forward, this study also highlights the Box-Behnken design-based combinatorial effect of ectopically expressed miRNAs on maximum suppression of HSV-2 infectivity. Therefore, the concentrations of each of the miRNAs optimized in a combination, predicted through expert systems biology tools were validated in vitro to not only recover the target expressions but also inhibit the HSV-2 infection in the macrophages. Overall, the study offers miRNAs as intriguing alternatives to commercially available medications against HSV-2. Moreover, the study illuminates the prophylactic potentiality of the miRNAs, which is significant since there are currently no vaccines available for HSV-2. Moving forward, the miRNAs are employed in an innovative strategy that incorporates intricate biological system models and in vitro confirmation methods to deliver a prospective combinatorial miRNA therapeutic against HSV-2 infection.

Mechanism of Simiao Decoction in the treatment of atherosclerosis based on network pharmacology prediction and molecular docking

To explore the molecular mechanism of Simiao Decoction (SMD) intervening atherosclerosis (AS). The main components and potential mechanisms of SMD remain unknown. This study aims to initially clarify the potential mechanism of SMD in the treatment of AS based on network pharmacology and molecular docking techniques. The principal components and corresponding protein targets of SMD were searched on Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform and the compound-target network was constructed by Cytoscape3.9.1. AS targets were searched on DrugBank, OMIM, and TTD databases. The intersection of compound target and disease target was obtained and the coincidence target was imported into STRING database to construct a protein-protein interaction network. We further performed Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analysis on the targets. The molecular docking method was used to verify the interaction between core components of SMD and targets. We created the active compounds-targets network and the active compounds-AS-targets network based on the network database containing Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform, DrugBank, OMIM, and TTD. We discovered that the therapy of AS with SMD involves 3 key substances-quercetin, kaempferol, and luteolin-as well as 5 crucial targets-ALB, AKT1, TNF, IL6, and TP53. The Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis revealed that the shared targets involved a number of signaling pathways, including the advanced glycosylation end product-receptor of AGE signaling pathway in diabetic complications, Hepatitis B, Lipid and atherosclerosis, Chemical Carcinogenesis-Receptor Activation, and Pathways in Cancer. The molecular docking demonstrated that the binding energies of quercetin, kaempferol, and luteolin with 5 important targets were favorable. This study reveals the active ingredients and potential molecular mechanism of SMD in the treatment of AS, and provides a reference for subsequent basic research.

MiR-93-5p inhibits retinal neurons apoptosis by regulating PDCD4 in acute ocular hypertension model

The present study focused on the effect of miR-93-5p on apoptosis of retinal neurons in acute ocular hypertension (AOH) model by regulating PDCD4 and explored its related mechanism. We detected that miR-93-5p expression was decreased and PDCD4 expression was increased in the AOH retina by qRT-PCR. Therefore, we explored the role of miR-93-5p and PDCD4. MiR-93-5p overexpression inhibited the apoptosis of retinal neurons and the expression of PDCD4 in vivo and in vitro. Inhibiting the expression of PDCD4 via transfected interfering RNA decreased the apoptosis of retinal cells and increased the expression of PI3K/Akt pathway-related proteins in vitro. However, the addition of PI3K protein inhibitor LY294002 reversed this effect, leading to a decrease of PI3K/Akt pathway protein expression and an increase of apoptosis-related protein Bax/Bcl-2 expression ratio. Finally, up-regulating miR-93-5p or down-regulating PDCD4 increased the expression of PI3K/Akt pathway protein in vivo. In conclusion, under the condition of AOH injury, miR-93-5p-inhibiting PDCD4 expression reduced the apoptosis of retinal neurons by activating PI3K/Akt pathway.

Fibroblast growth factor 10 ameliorates neurodegeneration in mouse and cellular models of Alzheimer's disease via reducing tau hyperphosphorylation and neuronal apoptosis

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized with senile plaques formed by Aβ deposition, and neurofibrillary tangles composed of hyperphosphorylated tau protein, which ultimately lead to cognitive impairment. Despite the heavy economic and life burdens faced by the patients with AD, effective treatments are still lacking. Previous studies have reported the neuroprotective effects of FGF10 in CNS diseases, but its role in AD remains unclear. In this study, we demonstrated that FGF10 levels were reduced in the serum of AD patients, as well as in the brains of 3xTg-AD mice and APPswe-transfected HT22 cells, suggesting a close relationship between FGF10 and AD. Further investigations revealed that intranasal delivery of FGF10 improved cognitive functions in 3xTg-AD mice. Additionally, FGF10 treatment reduced tau hyperphosphorylation and neuronal apoptosis, thereby mitigating neuronal cell damage and synaptic deficits in the cortex and hippocampus of 3xTg-AD mice, as well as APPswe-transfected HT22 cells. Furthermore, we evaluated the therapeutic potential of FGF10 gene delivery for treating AD symptoms and pathologies. Tail vein delivery of the FGF10 gene using AAV9 improved cognitive and neuronal functions in 3xTg-AD mice. Similarly, endogenous FGF10 overexpression ameliorated tau hyperphosphorylation and neuronal apoptosis in the cortex and hippocampus of 3xTg-AD mice. Importantly, we confirmed that the FGFR2/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway was activated following intranasal FGF10 delivery and AAV9-mediated FGF10 gene delivery in 3xTg-AD mice and APPswe-transfected HT22 cells. Knockdown of FGFR2 attenuated the protective effect of FGF10. Collectively, these findings suggest that intranasal delivery of FGF10 and AAV9-mediated FGF10 gene delivery could be a promising disease-modifying therapy for AD.

A Comprehensive Review of the Impact of Chromium Picolinate on Testicular Steroidogenesis and Antioxidant Balance

Low testosterone (T) levels are a major cause of male infertility, as this hormone is crucial for several processes throughout the entire male reproductive tract. Leydig cells (LC) produce T through testicular steroidogenesis. Disrupted LC function can hinder steroid production and fertility. Among the factors that affect steroidogenesis, endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) raise concerns, as they disturb hormonal signaling. Chromium is classified as an EDC, and its main forms are hexavalent (Cr(VI)) and trivalent chromium (Cr(III)). While Cr(III) is controversially regarded as an essential metal, its compound Cr(III) picolinate (CrPic3) is used as a nutritional supplement due to its antidiabetic and antioxidant properties. This review aims to identify the possible effects of CrPic3 on testicular steroidogenesis and thus, on male fertility. The detriments caused by CrPic3 in LC include the inhibition of enzymes involved in steroidogenesis, and, as in other cells, the induction of mutagenesis and apoptosis. Remarkably, CrPic3 impacts male fertility through the alteration of reactive oxygen species (ROS), T levels, and sperm parameters (sperm motility and abnormal sperm count). However, gaps and inconsistencies exist in the literature concerning its effects on male fertility. Thus, further research is imperative to comprehend the underlying mechanisms of CrPic3 in the physiological processes relevant to male fertility, ensuring the supplement's safety for use by men.

Thiopental sodium attenuates hypoxia/reoxygenation-induced injury in osteoblasts by modulating AKT signaling

Thiopental sodium (TPTS) is a barbiturate general anesthetic, while its effects on hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R)-induced injury are still unclear. This study aimed to investigate whether TPTS exerts protective effects against the H/R-induced osteoblast cell injury and explore the underlying mechanisms. Osteoblast cell injury model was induced by the H/R condition, which was treated with or without TPTS. Cell viability and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release were determined by the corresponding commercial kits. The levels of oxidative stress were determined in the experimental groups. Cell apoptosis and Caspase-3 activities were determined by propidium iodide staining and substrate-based assay, respectively. Western blotting and qRT-PCR were performed to measure the mRNA and protein levels, respectively. Treatment with TPTS was able to increase cell viability and reduce LDH release in H/R-induced osteoblasts. Additionally, TPTS regulated oxidative stress in H/R-induced osteoblasts by suppressing malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) as well as boosting superoxide dismutase (SOD). TPTS was able to suppress cell apoptosis by suppressing Caspase-3 activity and cleavage. TPTS exerted protective effects against cell injury and apoptosis induced by the H/R conditions, which were associated with its regulation of Akt signaling. Moreover, TPTS induced osteoblast differentiation under the H/R condition. In summary, TPTS attenuates H/R-induced injury in osteoblasts by regulating AKT signaling.

John M. Anticancer effects of thymoquinone in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: A scoping review

Objective

Thymoquinone (TQ), the active constituent of Nigella sativa, has been shown to have anticancer effects in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). This review aims to outline the properties of TQ, the known drivers in HNSCC formation, and summarize the anticancer effects of TQ in SCC.

Data Sources

Three databases (PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar) were queried for the key words "thymoquinone squamous cell carcinoma."

Review Methods

Publications that were not original research and publications that did not have full-text available for review were excluded.

Results

Sixteen research articles met the inclusion criteria. Our review demonstrates that TQ-induced cytotoxicity is associated with increased expression and activity of the tumor suppressor p53, proapoptotic proteins Bax and caspases, as well as decreased expression and activity of antiapoptotic proteins Bcl-2 and Mdm2. Additionally, TQ modulates cell-survival pathways such as the PI3k/Akt pathway. TQ synergizes with therapeutics including cisplatin and radiation. Early TQ administration may prevent carcinogenesis via upregulation of antioxidant enzymes, and TQ administration in the presence of cancer can result in disease mitigation via induction of oxidative stress.

Conclusion

TQ acts as an upregulator of proapoptotic pathways and downregulator of antiapoptotic pathways, modulates the oxidative stress balance in tumor development, and works synergistically alongside other chemotherapeutics to increase cytotoxicity. TQ has the potential to prevent carcinogenesis in patients who are at high-risk for SCC and adjuvant treatment for SCC patients undergoing conventional treatments. Future studies should aim to identify specific populations in which TQ's effects would be the most beneficial.

Level of Evidence

Not available.

Silencing of FAM111B inhibits tumor growth and promotes apoptosis by decreasing AKT activity in ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecological tumor in women worldwide. FAM111B (family with sequence similarity 111 member B) is an oncoprotein associated with multiple cancers, but its biological functions in ovarian cancer remain elusive. In this study, FAM111B was overexpressed in ovarian cancer tissues and cell lines. Functional studies in vitro revealed that silencing of FAM111B inhibited ovarian cancer cell proliferation, invasion, and migration, as well as increased cell apoptosis. Furthermore, FAM111B silencing arrested the ovarian cancer cell cycle at the G1/S phase. Furthermore, western blot assays demonstrated that silencing of FAM111B resulted in downregulation of phospho-AKT (p-AKT) protein expression, as well as upregulation of p53 and caspase-1 protein expression. The xenograft animal model of ovarian cancer demonstrated that FAM111B silencing inhibited tumor growth, enhanced cell apoptosis, and inhibited Ki-67 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) protein expression in vivo. Conversely, the overexpression of FAM111B exhibited opposite effects on the ovarian cancer xenograft. It was previously established that inactivating AKT inhibited ovarian cancer progression. This study found that silencing of FAM111B inhibits tumor growth and promotes apoptosis by decreasing AKT activity in ovarian cancer. Caspase-1 and p53 signaling also influenced the function of FAM111B in SKOV3 cells. Collectively, our results demonstrate that silencing of FAM111B is a potential therapeutic strategy against ovarian cancer.

Natural Products Targeting PI3K/AKT in Myocardial Ischemic Reperfusion Injury: A Scoping Review

This scoping review aimed to summarize the effects of natural products targeting phosphoinositide-3-kinases/serine/threonine kinase (PI3K/AKT) in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI). The review details various types of natural compounds such as gypenoside (GP), gypenoside XVII (GP-17), geniposide, berberine, dihydroquercetin (DHQ), and tilianin which identified to reduce MIRI in vitro and in vivo by regulating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. In this study, 14 research publications that met the inclusion criteria and exclusion criteria were shortlisted. Following the intervention, we discovered that natural products effectively improved cardiac functions through regulation of antioxidant status, down-regulation of Bax, and up-regulation of Bcl-2 and caspases cleavage. Furthermore, although comparing outcomes can be challenging due to the heterogeneity in the study model, the results we assembled here were consistent, giving us confidence in the intervention's efficacy. We also discussed if MIRI is associated with multiple pathological condition such as oxidative stress, ERS, mitochondrial injury, inflammation, and apoptosis. This brief review provides evidence to support the huge potential of natural products used in the treatment of MIRI due to their various biological activities and drug-like properties.

TREM2 Inhibits Tau Hyperphosphorylation and Neuronal Apoptosis via the PI3K/Akt/GSK-3β Signaling Pathway In vivo and In vitro

Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells-2 (TREM2), a cell surface receptor mainly expressed on microglia, has been shown to play a critical role in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis and progression. Our recent results showed that overexpression of TREM2 inhibited inflammatory response in APP/PS1 mice and BV2 cells. Several studies indicated that TREM2 ameliorated tau hyperphosphorylation might be ascribed to the inhibition of neuroinflammation. However, the precise signaling pathways underlying the effect of TREM2 on tau pathology and neuronal apoptosis have not been fully elucidated. In the present study, upregulation of TREM2 significantly inhibited tau hyperphosphorylation at Ser199, Ser396, and Thr205, respectively, as well as prevented neuronal loss and apoptosis. We also found that upregulation of TREM2 alleviated behavioral deficits and improved the spatial cognitive ability of APP/PS1 mice. Further study revealed that TREM2 could activate phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) signaling pathway, resulting in an inhibitory effect on glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β), which is a major kinase responsible for tau hyperphosphorylation in AD. In line with in vivo findings, TREM2-overexpressing BV2 microglia following β-amyloid (Aβ) stimulation led to a significant increase in the phosphorylation of PI3K, Akt, and GSK-3β, accompanied by a decrease in tau hyperphosphorylation and apoptosis in co-cultured SH-SY5Y cells. Furthermore, LY294002, a specific PI3K inhibitor, was observed to abolish the beneficial effects of TREM2 on tau hyperphosphorylation, neuronal apoptosis, and spatial cognitive impairments in vivo and in vitro. Thus, our findings indicated that TREM2 inhibits tau hyperphosphorylation and neuronal apoptosis, at least in part, by the activation of the PI3K/Akt/GSK-3β signaling pathway. Taken together, the above results allow us to better understand how TREM2 protects against tau pathology and suggest that upregulation of TREM2 may provide new ideas and therapeutic targets for AD.

Oxymatrine inhibits TGF‑β1‑mediated mitochondrial apoptotic signaling in alveolar epithelial cells via activation of PI3K/AKT signaling

Although pulmonary fibrosis (PF) causes respiratory failure and death, effective therapies for PF have not been developed. Oxymatrine (OMT), an active ingredient in the Chinese herb Sophora flavescens, exerts antifibrotic effects; however, its effect on PF remains unclear. The present study aimed to determine whether OMT decreases transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)-induced PF in human lung cancer A549 cells by inhibiting apoptosis and targeting the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT) pathway. To construct a PF cell model, A549 cells were stimulated with TGF-β1. The experimental groups were as follows: control (untreated cells grown in complete medium), TGF-β1 (cells treated with 5 ng/ml TGF-β1), OMT (cells treated with 5 ng/ml TGF-β1 and 0.25, 0.50, or 1.00 mg/ml OMT), and OMT + LY294002 (cells treated with 5 ng/ml TGF-β1, 1.0 mg/ml OMT. and 25 µmol/l LY294002). The effects of OMT on cell morphology (via electron microscopy), apoptosis (via Annexin V-PI staining), mitochondrial apoptosis signaling [using JC-1 method to analyze mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP)], and Bcl-2, as well as Bax expression (via western blotting and reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction), were analyzed. OMT significantly protected cells against TGF-β1-induced PF by inhibiting apoptosis. The specific manifestations were cell injury, as evidenced by morphological changes and decreased MMP. Following OMT treatment, the expression of the pro-apoptotic protein Bax increased, whereas that of the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 decreased. The PI3K/AKT-specific inhibitor LY294002 significantly inhibited the ameliorative effects of OMT on TGF-β1-induced apoptosis. Collectively, OMT attenuated TGF-β1-mediated mitochondrial apoptosis of alveolar epithelial cells by activating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Therefore, OMT may be a promising drug for PF treatment.

PGAM5 promotes tumorigenesis of gastric cancer cells through PI3K/AKT pathway

PGAM5 has been associated with the development of tumours, however, its function in gastric cancer (GC) remains unexplored. Here, we investigated the role and mechanism of PGAM5 in regulating GC. The results revealed that PGAM5 was upregulated in GC tissues and cell lines, which was correlated with tumour size and TNM stage. Moreover, PGAM5 knockdown inhibited proliferation, migration, and invasion progression, whereas PGAM5 overexpression promoted the function of GC cells in vitro. PGAM5 also promoted the activation of the PI3K/AKT signalling pathway. Furthermore, MK-2206, an AKT inhibitor, reversed the proliferation and activation of the PI3K/AKT signalling pathway induced by PGAM5 knockdown in GC cells. In conclusion, PGAM5 promotes the proliferation of GC by positively regulating the activation of the PI3K/AKT signalling pathway in GC cells.