miRNA-30 family inhibition protects against cardiac ischemic injury by regulating cystathionine-γ-lyase expression

miR-30a-5p attenuates hypoxia/reoxygenation-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis by regulating PTEN protein expression and activating PI3K/Akt signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

This study was designed to investigate the mechanism by which miR-30a-5p mediates cardiomyocyte apoptosis after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) induced by hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R).

METHODS

Differentially expressed miRNAs were analyzed by RNA high-throughput sequencing in acute myocardial infarction (ST-elevation myocardial infarction) patients versus healthy individuals (controls). The H/R model was used to assess the regulatory mechanism of miRNAs in AMI. Lentivirus-associated vectors were used to overexpress or knock down miR-30a-5p in cellular models. The pathological mechanisms of miR-30a-5p regulating the development of acute myocardial infarction were serially explored by qPCR, bioinformatics, target gene prediction, dual luciferase, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) and Western blotting.

RESULTS

The results showed that the expression of miR-30a-5p was significantly increased in AMI patients and H9C2 cells. Hypoxia decreased cardiomyocyte survival over time, and reoxygenation further reduced cell survival. Bax and Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN)were suppressed, while Bcl-2 was upregulated. Additionally, miR-30a-5p specifically targeted the PTEN gene. According to the GO and KEGG analyses, miR-30a-5p may participate in apoptosis by interacting with PTEN. The miR-30a-5p mimic decreased the expression of apoptosis-related proteins and the levels of the proinflammatory markers IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α by activating the PTEN/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Conversely, anti-miR-30a-5p treatment attenuated these effects. Additionally, silencing PTEN and anti-miR-30a-5p had opposite effects on H/R-induced cell apoptosis.

CONCLUSIONS

miR-30a-5p plays a crucial role in cardiomyocyte apoptosis after hypoxia-induced acute myocardial infarction. Our findings provide translational evidence that miR-30a-5p is a novel potential therapeutic target for AMI.

The miR-9-5p/CXCL11 pathway is a key target of hydrogen sulfide-mediated inhibition of neuroinflammation in hypoxic ischemic brain injury

We previously showed that hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has a neuroprotective effect in the context of hypoxic ischemic brain injury in neonatal mice. However, the precise mechanism underlying the role of H2S in this situation remains unclear. In this study, we used a neonatal mouse model of hypoxic ischemic brain injury and a lipopolysaccharide-stimulated BV2 cell model and found that treatment with L-cysteine, a H2S precursor, attenuated the cerebral infarction and cerebral atrophy induced by hypoxia and ischemia and increased the expression of miR-9-5p and cystathionine β synthase (a major H2S synthetase in the brain) in the prefrontal cortex. We also found that an miR-9-5p inhibitor blocked the expression of cystathionine β synthase in the prefrontal cortex in mice with brain injury caused by hypoxia and ischemia. Furthermore, miR-9-5p overexpression increased cystathionine-β-synthase and H2S expression in the injured prefrontal cortex of mice with hypoxic ischemic brain injury. L-cysteine decreased the expression of CXCL11, an miR-9-5p target gene, in the prefrontal cortex of the mouse model and in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated BV-2 cells and increased the levels of proinflammatory cytokines BNIP3, FSTL1, SOCS2 and SOCS5, while treatment with an miR-9-5p inhibitor reversed these changes. These findings suggest that H2S can reduce neuroinflammation in a neonatal mouse model of hypoxic ischemic brain injury through regulating the miR-9-5p/CXCL11 axis and restoring β-synthase expression, thereby playing a role in reducing neuroinflammation in hypoxic ischemic brain injury.

The crucial relationship between miRNA-27 and CSE/H2S, and the mechanism of action of GLP-1 in myocardial hypertrophy

Cardiac hypertrophy is the most prevalent compensatory heart disease that ultimately leads to spontaneous heart failure. Mounting evidence suggests that microRNAs (miRs) and endogenous hydrogen sulfide (H2S) play a crucial role in the regulation of cardiac hypertrophy. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether inhibition of miR-27a could protect against cardiac hypertrophy by modulating H2S signaling. We established a model of cardiac hypertrophy by obtaining hypertrophic tissue from mice subjected to transverse aortic constriction (TAC) and from cells treated with angiotensin-II. Molecular alterations in the myocardium were quantified using quantitative real time PCR (qRT-PCR), Western blotting, and ELISA. Morphological changes were characterized by hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining and Masson's trichrome staining. Functional myocardial changes were assessed using echocardiography. Our results demonstrated that miR-27a levels were elevated, while H2S levels were reduced in TAC mice and myocardial hypertrophy. Further luciferase and target scan assays confirmed that cystathionine-γ-lyase (CSE) was a direct target of miR-27a and was negatively regulated by it. Notably, enhancement of H2S expression in the heart was observed in mice injected with recombinant adeno-associated virus vector 9 (rAAV9)-anti-miR-27a and in cells transfected with a miR-27a inhibitor during cardiac hypertrophy. However, this effect was abolished by co-transfection with CSE siRNA and the miR-27a inhibitor. Conversely, injecting rAAV9-miR-27a yielded opposite results. Interestingly, our findings demonstrated that glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists could mitigate myocardial damage by down-regulating miR-27a and up-regulating CSE. In summary, our study suggests that inhibition of miR-27a holds therapeutic promise for the treatment of cardiac hypertrophy by increasing H2S levels. Furthermore, our findings unveil a novel mechanism of GLP-1 agonists involving the miR-27a/H2S pathway in the management of cardiac hypertrophy.

Role of Hydrogen Sulfide in Oncological and Non-Oncological Disorders and Its Regulation by Non-Coding RNAs: A Comprehensive Review

Recently, myriad studies have defined the versatile abilities of gasotransmitters and their synthesizing enzymes to play a "Maestro" role in orchestrating several oncological and non-oncological circuits and, thus, nominated them as possible therapeutic targets. Although a significant amount of work has been conducted on the role of nitric oxide (NO) and carbon monoxide (CO) and their inter-relationship in the field of oncology, research about hydrogen sulfide (H2S) remains in its infancy. Recently, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have been reported to play a dominating role in the regulation of the endogenous machinery system of H2S in several pathological contexts. A growing list of microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are leading the way as upstream regulators for H2S biosynthesis in different mammalian cells during the development and progression of human diseases; therefore, their targeting can be of great therapeutic benefit. In the current review, the authors shed the light onto the biosynthetic pathways of H2S and their regulation by miRNAs and lncRNAs in various oncological and non-oncological disorders.

Hydrogen Sulfide and Functional Therapy: Novel Mechanisms from Epigenetics

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a gasotransmitter with significant physiological effects, including anti-inflammatory properties, regulation of oxidative stress, and vasodilation, thus regulating body functions. Functional therapy involves using treatments that target the underlying cause of a disease, rather than simply treating symptoms. Epigenetics refers to changes in gene expression that occur through modifications to DNA, to the proteins that package DNA, or to noncoding RNA mechanisms. Recent research advances suggest that H2S may play a role in epigenetic regulation by altering DNA methylation patterns and regulating histone deacetylases, enzymes that modify histone proteins, or modulating microRNA mechanisms. These critical findings suggest that H2S may be a promising molecule for functional therapy in various diseases where epigenetic modifications are dysregulated. We reviewed the relevant research progress in this area, hoping to provide new insights into the epigenetic mechanisms of H2S. Despite the challenges of clinical use of H2S, future research may lead to the progress of new therapeutic approaches. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 40, 110-121.

Cystathionine γ-lyase S-sulfhydrates SIRT1 to attenuate myocardial death in isoprenaline-induced heart failure

OBJECTIVE

Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), the third gasotransmitter, plays a critical role in protecting against heart failure. Sirtuin-1 (SIRT1) is a highly conserved histone deacetylase that has a protective role in the treatment of heart failure by regulating the deacetylation of some functional proteins. This study investigates the interaction between SIRT1 and H₂S in heart failure and the underlying mechanisms.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Using endogenous H₂S-generating enzyme cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE) knockout mice, we found that CSE deficiency aggravated isoprenaline-induced cardiac injury. Treatment with H₂S attenuated atrial natriuretic peptide level, brain natriuretic peptide level, improved cardiac function. Moreover, H₂S treatment potentiated myocardial SIRT1 expression. Silencing CSE abolished intracellular SIRT1 expression. Furthermore, CSE/ H₂S S-sulfhydrated SIRT1 at its zinc finger domains and augmented its zinc ion binding activity to stabilize the alpha-helix structure.

DISCUSSION

In conclusion, these results uncover that a novel mechanism that CSE/H₂S S-sulfhydrated SIRT1 to prevent heart dysfunction through modulating its activity.

Skeletal muscle-derived FSTL1 starting up angiogenesis by regulating endothelial junction via activating Src pathway can be upregulated by hydrogen sulfide

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) promotes microangiogenesis and revascularization after ischemia. Neovascularization starts with the destruction of intercellular junctions and is accompanied by various endothelial cell angiogenic behaviors. Follistatin-like 1 (FSTL1) is a cardiovascular-protective myokine that works against ischemic injury. The present study examined whether FSTL1 was involved in H2S-induced angiogenesis and explored the underlying molecular mechanism. We observed that H2S accelerated blood perfusion after ischemia in the mouse hindlimb ischemia model. Western blot analysis showed that H2S stabilized FSTL1 transcript and increased FSTL1 and Human antigen R (HuR) levels in skeletal muscle. RNA-interference HuR significantly inhibited the H2S-promoted increase in FSTL1 levels. Exogenous FSTL1 promoted the wound-healing migration of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and increased monolayer endothelial barrier permeability. Immunostaining showed that FSTL1 increased interendothelial gap formation and decreased VE-Cadherin, Occludin, Connexin-43, and Claudin-5 expression. In addition, FSTL1 significantly increased the phosphorylation of Src and VEGFR2. However, the Src inhibitor, not the VEGFR2 inhibitor, could block FSTL1-induced effects in angiogenesis. In conclusion, we demonstrated that H2S could upregulate the expression of FSTL1 by increasing the HuR levels in skeletal muscle, and paracrine FSTL1 could initiate angiogenesis by opening intercellular junctions via the Src signaling pathway.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The myocyte-derived paracrine protein FSTL1 acts on vascular endothelial cells and initiates the process of angiogenesis by opening the intercellular junction via activating Src kinase. H2S can significantly upregulate FSTL1 protein levels in skeletal muscles by increasing HuR expression.

Recent advances in the role of endogenous hydrogen sulphide in cancer cells

Hydrogen sulphide (H2 S) is a gaseous neurotransmitter that can be self-synthesized by living organisms. With the deepening of research, the pathophysiological mechanisms of endogenous H2 S in cancer have been increasingly elucidated: (1) promote angiogenesis, (2) stimulate cell bioenergetics, (3) promote migration and proliferation thereby invasion, (4) inhibit apoptosis and (5) activate abnormal cell cycle. However, the increasing H2 S levels via exogenous sources show the opposite trend. This phenomenon can be explained by the bell-shaped pharmacological model of H2 S, that is, the production of endogenous (low concentration) H2 S promotes tumour growth while the exogenous (high concentration) H2 S inhibits tumour growth. Here, we review the impact of endogenous H2 S synthesis and metabolism on tumour progression, summarize the mechanism of action of H2 S in tumour growth, and discuss the possibility of H2 S as a potential target for tumour treatment.

The Role of Gasotransmitter-Dependent Signaling Mechanisms in Apoptotic Cell Death in Cardiovascular, Rheumatic, Kidney, and Neurodegenerative Diseases and Mental Disorders

Cardiovascular, rheumatic, kidney, and neurodegenerative diseases and mental disorders are a common cause of deterioration in the quality of life up to severe disability and death worldwide. Many pathological conditions, including this group of diseases, are based on increased cell death through apoptosis. It is known that this process is associated with signaling pathways controlled by a group of gaseous signaling molecules called gasotransmitters. They are unique messengers that can control the process of apoptosis at different stages of its implementation. However, their role in the regulation of apoptotic signaling in these pathological conditions is often controversial and not completely clear. This review analyzes the role of nitric oxide (NO), carbon monoxide (CO), hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), and sulfur dioxide (SO₂) in apoptotic cell death in cardiovascular, rheumatic, kidney, and neurodegenerative diseases. The signaling processes involved in apoptosis in schizophrenia, bipolar, depressive, and anxiety disorders are also considered. The role of gasotransmitters in apoptosis in these diseases is largely determined by cell specificity and concentration. NO has the greatest dualism; scales are more prone to apoptosis. At the same time, CO, H₂S, and SO₂ are more involved in cytoprotective processes.

Triangular-shaped homologous heterostructure as photocatalytic H2S scavenger and macrophage modulator for rheumatoid arthritis therapy

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic arthropathy causing cartilage destruction, bone erosion, and even disability. Although some advances in RA treatment have been made based on inflammatory cytokine inhibition, long-term treatment and drug effect have been restrained by severe side effects. Herein, we developed a resveratrol (RSV)-loaded Ag/Ag₂S triangular-shaped homologous heterostructure with polyethylene glycol/folic acid (PEG/FA) modification (Ag/Ag₂S-PEG-FA/RSV NTs) to simultaneously suppress inflammatory cytokine over-expression through photocatalytic H₂S scavenging and macrophage polarization stimulation. On one hand, the over-expressed H₂S, which acted as a pro-inflammatory mediator to activate the MAPK/ICAM-1 pathway and exacerbate inflammation, was eliminated through photocatalysis. The homologous Ag and Ag₂S of the heterostructure enhanced electron separation and transfer by acting as a charge acceptor and electron generator, respectively, which restrained electron/hole recombination and promoted photocatalysis efficiency. Additionally, the intrinsic superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activity of Ag decomposed the reactive oxygen species (ROS) over-expressed in the RA microenvironment, which supplied O₂ for the photocatalytic H₂S scavenging progress. On the other hand, RSV, a natural product with anti-inflammatory activity, could be delivered to the inflammatory joint by the targeting effect of PEG-FA, thus inhibiting the IκB/NF-κB pro-inflammatory pathway to induce macrophage interconversion balance from M1 to M2. As expected, the Ag/Ag₂S-PEG-FA/RSV NTs exhibited H₂S scavenging capacity and modulated macrophage polarization to reduce the inflammatory cytokine level and halt RA progression in vitro and in vivo. Overall, this study revealed a therapeutic strategy with high efficacy, which opens broad prospects for RA treatment.

Sodium hydrosulfide and bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells combined therapy for bleomycin induced pulmonary fibrosis in rats: Implication of micro RNA-21 and Lnc GAS5

AIMS

Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is considered as an end stage for many lung diseases. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) as regenerative therapy have become a remarkably valuable therapeutic strategy in different diseases. Hydrogen sulfide has been recently introduced into the medical field for its antifibrotic properties in addition to enhancement of MSC stemness and function. The aim of the present study was to investigate the ability of BM-MSC in combination with NaHS to attenuate Bleomycin induced pulmonary fibrosis was studied in rats. A special emphasis was given to miR-21 and GAS5 as important players in the development of PF.

MAIN METHODS

PF was induced in 32 Wistar male rats by single endotracheal injection of bleomycin, those were randomly divided into four groups (8 rats each): (untreated PF group) - (PF + MSC) treated group- (PF + NaHS treated group) - PF + combined (NAHS + MSC) treated group.

KEY FINDINGS

Induction of PF was associated with increased miR-21 and decreased lncRNA-GAS5 expression. Treatment with either NaHS or BM-MSC leads to an inhibitory effect on pulmonary fibrosis as evidenced by improvement of histopathological studies, pulmonary function tests, reduction of inflammatory and fibrotic markers like Hydroxyproline, TNF α, TGF-β and caspase -3 together with downregulation miR-21 and increase lncRNA-GAS5 expression.

SIGNIFICANCE

The current work revealed the inhibitory effect of combined NaHS and BM-MSC on pulmonary fibrosis with concomitant modulation of miR-21 and lncRNA-GAS5 expression.

Wildfires and extracellular vesicles: Exosomal MicroRNAs as mediators of cross-tissue cardiopulmonary responses to biomass smoke

INTRODUCTION

Wildfires are a threat to public health world-wide that are growing in intensity and prevalence. The biological mechanisms that elicit wildfire-associated toxicity remain largely unknown. The potential involvement of cross-tissue communication via extracellular vesicles (EVs) is a new mechanism that has yet to be evaluated.

METHODS

Female CD-1 mice were exposed to smoke condensate samples collected from the following biomass burn scenarios: flaming peat; smoldering peat; flaming red oak; and smoldering red oak, representing lab-based simulations of wildfire scenarios. Lung tissue, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) samples, peripheral blood, and heart tissues were collected 4 and 24 h post-exposure. Exosome-enriched EVs were isolated from plasma, physically characterized, and profiled for microRNA (miRNA) expression. Pathway-level responses in the lung and heart were evaluated through RNA sequencing and pathway analyses.

RESULTS

Markers of cardiopulmonary tissue injury and inflammation from BALF samples were significantly altered in response to exposures, with the greatest changes occurring from flaming biomass conditions. Plasma EV miRNAs relevant to cardiovascular disease showed exposure-induced expression alterations, including miR-150, miR-183, miR-223-3p, miR-30b, and miR-378a. Lung and heart mRNAs were identified with differential expression enriched for hypoxia and cell stress-related pathways. Flaming red oak exposure induced the greatest transcriptional response in the heart, a large portion of which were predicted as regulated by plasma EV miRNAs, including miRNAs known to regulate hypoxia-induced cardiovascular injury. Many of these miRNAs had published evidence supporting their transfer across tissues. A follow-up analysis of miR-30b showed that it was increased in expression in the heart of exposed mice in the absence of changes to its precursor molecular, pri-miR-30b, suggesting potential transfer from external sources (e.g., plasma).

DISCUSSION

This study posits a potential mechanism through which wildfire exposures induce cardiopulmonary responses, highlighting the role of circulating plasma EVs in intercellular and systems-level communication between tissues.

A Nomogram model for predicting the occurrence of no-reflow phenomenon after percutaneous coronary intervention using the lncRNA TUG1/miR-30e/NPPB biomarkers

Background

Studies have shown that percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is considered as the essential therapeutic strategy for the patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). However; no-reflow could still occur in a few patients after PCI. Studies have reported that biomarkers related to no-reflow pathogenetic components could play a prognostic role in the prediction phenomenon. Hence, this study explored the establishment of nomogram model for predicting the occurrence of no-reflow phenomenon after PCI using the lncRNA TUG1/miR-30e/NPPB biomarkers in patients with STEMI after PCI.

Methods

In this observational study, a total of 76 STEMI patients who underwent emergency PCI between January 2018 and December 2021were included. The patients after PCI, were divided into reflow (n=44) and no-reflow groups (n=32). The demographic, environmental and clinical risk factors were assessed and analysed between the groups. Quantitative RT-PCR was used to detect TUG1, miR-30e, and NPPB messenger RNA (mRNA) expression levels in the plasma of patients after PCI. Bioinformatic methods were used to predict the interaction of the plasma TUG1/miR-30e/NPPB axis. The risk factors in the no-reflow group were screened using a logistic-regression analysis, and a nomogram prediction model was constructed and validated. Subsequently, a gene set enrichment analysis revealed the function of lncRNA TUG1.

Results

Plasma lncRNA TUG1 and NPPB were more highly expressed and miR-30e was more lowly expressed in the no-reflow group than the normal-reflow group (P<0.001). A negative correlation was observed between lncRNA TUG1 and miR-30e, and between miR-30e and NPPB. However, a positive correlation was observed between lncRNA TUG1 and NPPB mRNA. The bioinformatics analysis predicted multiple binding sites on the lncRNA TUG1 and miR-30e. LncRNA TUG1 [odds ratio (OR): 0.163, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.021–0.944] and hs-CRP (OR: 2.151, 95% CI: 1.536–3.974) found to be as independent predictors. The C-index of this prediction model was 0.982 (95% CI: 0.956–1.000).

Conclusions

TUG1 could function as an effective biomarker for no-reflow among patients with STEMI after PCT and the proposed nomogram may provide information for individualized treatment in patients with STEMI.

The Regulatory Role of Non-coding RNA in Autophagy in Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury

Following an acute myocardial infarction (AMI), thrombolysis, coronary artery bypass grafting and primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) are the best interventions to restore reperfusion and relieve the ischemic myocardium, however, the myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI) largely offsets the benefits of revascularization in patients. Studies have demonstrated that autophagy is one of the important mechanisms mediating the occurrence of the MIRI, while non-coding RNAs are the main regulatory factors of autophagy, which plays an important role in the autophagy-related mTOR signaling pathways and the process of autophagosome formation Therefore, non-coding RNAs may be used as novel clinical diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets in the diagnosis and treatment of the MIRI. In this review, we not only describe the effect of non-coding RNA regulation of autophagy on MIRI outcome, but also zero in on the regulation of non-coding RNA on autophagy-related mTOR signaling pathways and mitophagy. Besides, we focus on how non-coding RNAs affect the outcome of MIRI by regulating autophagy induction, formation and extension of autophagic vesicles, and the fusion of autophagosome and lysosome. In addition, we summarize all non-coding RNAs reported in MIRI that can be served as possible druggable targets, hoping to provide a new idea for the prediction and treatment of MIRI.

The regulatory role of MiR-203 in oxidative stress induced cell injury through the CBS/H2S pathway

Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) mediates biological effects in a variety of ways. Due to its strong reducing potential, H2S has been recognized to have an important role in oxidative stress induced hypoxia. It has been reported that H2S production and miRNA can mutually regulate each other. H2S is produced by the catalytic activity of cystathionine-β-synthase (CBS), which is under the regulation of miRNAs. In this study, we used target gene prediction software, and identified miR-203 as a potential regulator of CBS. We verified this finding using an oxygen and glucose deprivation (OGD) hypoxia cell model in SH-SY5Y cells and pMIR-REPORT™ luciferase miRNA expression reporter vector. Furthermore, transfecting SH-SY5Y cells with miRNA agomir (agonist) and antagomir (antagonist) by lipofectamin RNAiMAX, we further validated miR-203 as a direct regulator of CBS. We also found that miR-203 protects from cell injury by regulating lipid peroxidation, cell apoptosis, and mitochondrial membrane potential. These findings suggest that while over-expression of miR-203 can aggravate OGD induced cell injury, inhibition of miR-203 can protect against OGD induced cell injury. Based on our data and that of others, we propose that miR-203 may regulate oxidative stress induced cell injury by regulating CBS expression and adjusting the levels of H2S production.

Profiling Cystathionine β/γ-Lyase in Complex Biosamples Using Novel Activatable Fluorogens

Cystathionine lyase, the key enzyme in transsulfuration and reverse transsulfuration pathways, is involved in a wide array of physiological and pathophysiological processes in both mammals and nonmammals. Though the biological significance of the hydrogen sulfide/cystathionine lyase system in disease states is extensively discussed, the absence of molecular methods for direct monitoring of cystathionine lyase in complex biosamples renders the result unreliable and perplexing. Here, we present the first attempt at designing and developing effective activatable fluorescent probes for cystathionine lyase based on the naphthylamide scaffold. CBLP and CSEP were designed based on the catalytic preference of cystathionine β-lyase (CBL) and cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE). Briefly, incorporation of cysteine/homocysteine as the recognition moiety and a carbamate ethyl sulfide group as a self-immolated linker proved to be an effective strategy for cystathionine lyase fluorescence reporting. CBLP exhibits high selectivity and sensitivity in vitro in semiquantifying CBL levels in roots of wild-type Arabidopsis thaliana and cbl mutants (cbl knockout: SALK_014740C, overexpressed: OE-CBL). Meanwhile, CSEP successfully detected CSE levels in HCC-LM3 cells, zebrafish models, and upregulated CSE in frozen section slides from the liver tissue of cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced septic rats, which was also validated by Western blotting and immunohistochemical analysis. In summary, the practical design strategy facilitates profiling of cystathionine lyase activity in biological processes. It may pave the way for the development of accurate and efficient methods for the direct estimation of cystathionine lyase.

MicroRNA as a Potential Biomarker and Treatment Strategy for Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury

Ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury is a progressive injury that aggravates the pathological state when the organ tissue restores blood supply after a certain period of ischemia, including the myocardial, brain, liver, kidney, and intestinal. With growing evidence that microRNAs (miRNAs) play an important role as posttranscription gene silencing mediators in many I/R injury, in this review, we highlight the microRNAs that are related to I/R injury and their regulatory molecular pathways. In addition, we discussed the potential role of miRNA as a biomarker and its role as a target in I/R injury treatment. Developing miRNAs are not without its challenges, but prudent design combined with existing clinical treatments will result in more effective therapies for I/R injury. This review is aimed at providing new research results obtained in this research field. It is hoped that new research on this topic will not only generate new insights into the pathophysiology of miRNA in I/R injury but also can provide a basis for the clinical application of miRNA in I/R.

Inverse association of plasma hydrogen sulfide levels with visceral fat area among Chinese young men: a cross-sectional study

Objective

To investigate the association between plasma Hydrogen Sulfide (H₂S) levels and visceral fat area (VFA) among Chinese young men.

Methods

This cross-sectional study involved 156 Chinese male subjects, aged 18-45 years, who visited the First Hospital of Qinhuangdao (Hebei, China) in 2014 for annual health check-up. Participants were categorized into: low (VFA < 75.57 cm²), medium (75.57 cm² ≤ VFA<100.37 cm²), and high (VFA ≥ 100.37 cm²) (n = 52/group). We estimated VFA and plasma H₂S levels by using bioelectrical impedance analysis and a fluorescence probe-based approach, respectively. The associations of H₂S with VFA and obesity anthropometric measures were assessed.

Results

In the high VFA group, the body mass index (BMI, 30.4 ± 2.45 kg/m²), total body fat (TBF, 27.9 ± 3.23 kg), plasma H₂S (3.5 µmol/L), free fatty acid (FFA, 0.6 ± 0.24 mmol/L), triglyceride (TG, 2.0 mmol/L), and total cholesterol (TC, 5.5 ± 1.02 mmol/L) levels were significantly higher than that of those of the low and medium VFA groups, respectively (P < 0.05). Plasma H₂S levels were found to be inversely correlated with VFA, TBF, waist circumference, BMI, FFA, LnFINS, LnHOMA-IR, LnTG, TC, and LDL-C (P < 0.05). Multiple backward stepwise regression analysis revealed an inverse correlation of plasma H₂S levels with FFA (β = -0.214, P = 0.005) and VFA (β = -0.429, P < 0.001), independent of adiposity measures and other confounding factors.

Conclusion

VFA was independently and inversely associated with plasma H₂S levels among Chinese young men. Therefore, determining plasma H₂S levels could aid in the assessment of abnormal VAT distribution.

Cell type-specific microRNA therapies for myocardial infarction

Current interventions fail to recover injured myocardium after infarction and prompt the need for development of cardioprotective strategies. Of increasing interest is the therapeutic use of microRNAs to control gene expression through specific targeting of mRNAs. In this Review, we discuss current microRNA-based therapeutic strategies, describing the outcomes and limitations of key microRNAs with a focus on target cell types and molecular pathways. Last, we offer a perspective on the outlook of microRNA therapies for myocardial infarction, highlighting the outstanding challenges and emerging strategies.

EndMT: Potential Target of H2S against Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is a chronic arterial wall illness that forms atherosclerotic plaques within the arteries. Plaque formation and endothelial dysfunction are atherosclerosis' characteristics. It is believed that the occurrence and development of atherosclerosis mainly include endothelial cell damage, lipoprotein deposition, inflammation and fibrous cap formation, but its molecular mechanism has not been elucidated. Therefore, protecting the vascular endothelium from damage is one of the key factors against atherosclerosis. The factors and processes involved in vascular endothelial injury are complex. Finding out the key factors and mechanisms of atherosclerosis caused by vascular endothelial injury is an important target for reversing and preventing atherosclerosis. Changes in cell adhesion are the early characteristics of EndMT, and cell adhesion is related to vascular endothelial injury and atherosclerosis. Recent researches have exhibited that endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) can urge atherosclerosis' progress, and it is expected that inhibition of EndMT will be an object for anti-atherosclerosis. We speculate whether inhibition of EndMT can become an effective target for reversing atherosclerosis by improving cell adhesion changes and vascular endothelial injury. Studies have shown that H₂S has a strong cardiovascular protective effect. As H₂S has anti- inflammatory, anti-oxidant, inhibiting foam cell formation, regulating ion channels and enhancing cell adhesion and endothelial functions, the current research on H₂S in cardiovascular aspects is increasing, but anti-atherosclerosis's molecular mechanism and the function of H2S in EndMT have not been explicit. In order to explore the mechanism of H₂S against atherosclerosis, to find an effective target to reverse atherosclerosis, we sum up the progress of EndMT promoting atherosclerosis, and Hydrogen sulfide's potential anti- EndMT effect is discussed in this review.

Modulation of EndMT by Hydrogen Sulfide in the Prevention of Cardiovascular Fibrosis

Endothelial mesenchymal transition (EndMT) has been described as a fundamental process during embryogenesis; however, it can occur also in adult age, underlying pathological events, including fibrosis. Indeed, during EndMT, the endothelial cells lose their specific markers, such as vascular endothelial cadherin (VE-cadherin), and acquire a mesenchymal phenotype, expressing specific products, such as α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and type I collagen; moreover, the integrity of the endothelium is disrupted, and cells show a migratory, invasive and proliferative phenotype. Several stimuli can trigger this transition, but transforming growth factor (TGF-β1) is considered the most relevant. EndMT can proceed in a canonical smad-dependent or non-canonical smad-independent manner and ultimately regulate gene expression of pro-fibrotic machinery. These events lead to endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis at the vascular level as well as myocardial hypertrophy and fibrosis. Indeed, EndMT is the mechanism which promotes the progression of cardiovascular disorders following hypertension, diabetes, heart failure and also ageing. In this scenario, hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) has been widely described for its preventive properties, but its role in EndMT is poorly investigated. This review is focused on the evaluation of the putative role of H₂S in the EndMT process.

H3K14 hyperacetylation‑mediated c‑Myc binding to the miR‑30a‑5p gene promoter under hypoxia postconditioning protects senescent cardiomyocytes from hypoxia/reoxygenation injury

Our previous study reported that microRNA (miR)‑30a‑5p upregulation under hypoxia postconditioning (HPostC) exert a protective effect on aged H9C2 cells against hypoxia/reoxygenation injury via DNA methyltransferase 3B‑induced DNA hypomethylation at the miR‑30a‑5p gene promoter. This suggests that miR‑30a‑5p may be a potential preventative and therapeutic target for ischemic heart disease in aged myocardium. The present study aimed to investigate the underlying mechanisms of miR‑30a‑5p transcription in aged myocardium in ischemic heart disease. Cardiomyocytes were treated with 8 mg/ml D‑galactose for 9 days, and then exposed to hypoxic conditions. Cell viability was determined using a cell viability assay. Expression levels of histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2), LC3B‑II/I, beclin‑1 and p62 were detected via reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR and western blotting. Chromatin immunoprecipitation‑PCR and luciferase reporter assays were performed to evaluate the effect of c‑Myc binding and activity on the miR‑30a‑5p promoter in senescent cardiomyocytes following HPostC. It was found that HPostC enhanced the acetylation levels of H3K14 at the miR‑30a‑5p gene promoter in senescent cardiomyocytes, which attributed to the decreased expression of HDAC2. In addition, c‑Myc could positively regulate miR‑30a‑5p transcription to inhibit senescent cardiomyocyte autophagy. Mechanically, it was observed that increased H3K14 acetylation level exposed to romidepsin facilitated c‑Myc binding to the miR‑30a‑5p gene promoter region, which led to the increased transcription of miR‑30a‑5p. Taken together, these results demonstrated that HDAC2‑mediated H3K14 hyperacetylation promoted c‑Myc binding to the miR‑30a‑5p gene promoter, which contributed to HPostC senescent cardioprotection.

MicroRNA-30 regulates left ventricular hypertrophy in chronic kidney disease

Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is a primary feature of cardiovascular complications in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). miRNA-30 is an important posttranscriptional regulator of LVH, but it is unknown whether miRNA-30 participates in the process of CKD-induced LVH. In the present study, we found that CKD not only resulted in LVH but also suppressed miRNA-30 expression in the myocardium. Rescue of cardiomyocyte-specific miRNA-30 attenuated LVH in CKD rats without altering CKD progression. Importantly, in vivo and in vitro knockdown of miRNA-30 in cardiomyocytes led to cardiomyocyte hypertrophy by upregulating the calcineurin signaling directly. Furthermore, CKD-related detrimental factors, such as fibroblast growth factor-23, uremic toxin, angiotensin II, and transforming growth factor–β, suppressed cardiac miRNA-30 expression, while miRNA-30 supplementation blunted cardiomyocyte hypertrophy induced by such factors. These results uncover a potentially novel mechanism of CKD-induced LVH and provide a potential therapeutic target for CKD patients with LVH.

Downregulation of myocardial miRNA-30 is involved in chronic kidney disease–induced left ventricular hypertrophy, whereas exogenous miRNA-30 rescue inhibits this process.

lncRNA C2dat2 facilitates autophagy and apoptosis via the miR-30d-5p/DDIT4/mTOR axis in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury

Cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI) is an important pathophysiological process of ischemic stroke associated with various physiological and pathological processes, including autophagy and apoptosis. In this study, we examined the role and mechanism of long noncoding RNA CAMK2D-associated transcript 2 (C2dat2) in regulating CIRI in vivo and in vitro. C2dat2 up-regulation facilitated neuronal autophagy and apoptosis induced by CIRI. Mechanistically, C2dat2 acts as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) to negatively regulate miR-30d-5p expression. More specifically, miR-30d-5p targeted the 3′-untranslated region of DNA damage-inducible transcript 4 (DDIT4) and silenced its target mRNA DDIT4. Additionally, C2dat2 binding with heat shock cognate 70/heat shock protein 90 blocked RNA-induced silencing complex assembly to abolish the miR-30d-5p targeting of DDIT4 and inhibited miR-30d-5p to silence its target mRNA DDIT4. Further analysis showed that C2dat2 knockdown conspicuously inhibited the up-regulation of DDIT4 and Beclin-1 levels and LC3B II/I ratio and the down-regulation of P62 and phosphorylated mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)/mTOR and phosphorylated-P70S6K/P70S6K ratio in Neuro-2a cells after oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation. This study first revealed that C2dat2/miR-30d-5p/DDIT4/mTOR forms a novel signaling pathway to facilitate autophagy and apoptosis induced by CIRI, contributing to the better understanding of the mechanisms of CIRI and enriching the ceRNA hypothesis in CIRI.

MicroRNA-30a-5p silencing polarizes macrophages toward M2 phenotype to alleviate cardiac injury following viral myocarditis by targeting SOCS1

Viral myocarditis (VMC) is a life-threatening disease characterized by severe cardiac inflammation generally caused by coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) infection. Several microRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) are known to play crucial roles in the pathogenesis of VMC. The study aimed to decipher the role of miR-30a-5p in the underlying mechanisms of VMC pathogenesis. We first quantified miR-30a-5p expression in a CVB3-induced mouse VMC model. The physiological characteristics of mouse cardiac tissues were then detected by hematoxylin and eosin (HE) and Picrosirius red staining. We established the correlation between miR-30a-5p and SOCS1, using dual-luciferase gene assay and Pearson's correlation coefficient. The expression of inflammatory factors (IFN-γ, IL-6, IL-10, and IL-13), M1 polarization markers [TNF-α, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS)], M2 polarization markers (Arg-1, IL-10), and myocardial hypertrophy markers [atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP)] was detected by RT-qPCR and Western blot analysis. miR-30a-5p was found to be highly expressed in VMC mice. Silencing of miR-30a-5p improved the cardiac function index and reduced heart weight-to-body weight ratio, myocardial tissue pathological changes and fibrosis degree, serological indexes, as well as proinflammatory factor levels, while enhancing anti-inflammatory factor levels in VMC mice. Furthermore, silencing of miR-30a-5p inhibited M1 polarization of macrophages while promoting M2 polarization in vivo and in vitro. SOCS1 was a target gene of miR-30a-5p, and the aforementioned cardioprotective effects of miR-30a-5p silencing were reversed upon silencing of SOCS1. Overall, this study shows that silencing of miR-30a-5p may promote M2 polarization of macrophages and improve cardiac injury following VMC via SOCS1 upregulation, constituting a potential therapeutic target for VMC treatment.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We found in this study that microRNA (miR)-30a-5p inhibition might improve cardiac injury following viral myocarditis (VMC) by accelerating M2 polarization of macrophages via SOCS1 upregulation. Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory mechanisms of miR-30a-5p inhibition may contribute to the development of new therapeutic strategies for VMC.

Involvement of non‑coding RNAs in the pathogenesis of myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury (Review)

Myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury (MIRI) may cause myocardial stunning, reperfusion arrhythmia, no‑reflow phenomenon and lethal reperfusion injury, which has a significant effect on the prognosis of patients undergoing thrombolytic agent therapy and percutaneous coronary intervention. Increasing evidence suggests that apoptosis, innate inflammation, oxidative stress, calcium overload and autophagy are involved in the pathogenesis of MIRI. Recent advancements in RNA sequencing technologies and genome‑wide analyses led to the finding of small non‑coding RNAs (ncRNAs). ncRNAs modulate cellular processes such as signal transduction, transcription, chromatin remodeling and post‑transcriptional modification. The effects of ncRNAs on cellular biology is more considerable than initially expected, and thus ncRNAs have gained increasing attention and focus in modern medical research. There are several types of ncRNAs, such as microRNAs (miRNAs), long non‑coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs), which have been shown to regulate gene expression at the transcription, post‑transcription and epigenetic levels. Dysregulation of ncRNAs, including miRNAs, lncRNAs and circRNAs, may participate in the molecular mechanisms of MIRI. The present review summarizes the characteristics and biological roles of miRNAs, lncRNAs and circRNAs, with particular emphasis on their role in MIRI, which show the novel complexity of ischemic hearts and may offer valuable insights into the pathogenesis of MIRI.

The Potential of Hydrogen Sulfide Donors in Treating Cardiovascular Diseases

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has long been considered as a toxic gas, but as research progressed, the idea has been updated and it has now been shown to have potent protective effects at reasonable concentrations. H2S is an endogenous gas signaling molecule in mammals and is produced by specific enzymes in different cell types. An increasing number of studies indicate that H2S plays an important role in cardiovascular homeostasis, and in most cases, H2S has been reported to be downregulated in cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Similarly, in preclinical studies, H2S has been shown to prevent CVDs and improve heart function after heart failure. Recently, many H2S donors have been synthesized and tested in cellular and animal models. Moreover, numerous molecular mechanisms have been proposed to demonstrate the effects of these donors. In this review, we will provide an update on the role of H2S in cardiovascular activities and its involvement in pathological states, with a special focus on the roles of exogenous H2S in cardiac protection.

Role of Hydrogen Sulfide in Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury

ABSTRACT

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S), generally known as a new gas signal molecule after nitric oxide and carbon monoxide, has been found as an important endogenous gasotransmitter in the last few decades, and it plays a significant role in the cardiovascular system both pathologically and physiologically. In recent years, there is growing evidence that H2S provides myocardial protection against myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI), which resulted in an ongoing focus on the possible mechanisms of action accounting for the H2S cardioprotective effect. At present, lots of mechanisms of action have been verified through in vitro and in vivo models of I/R injury, such as S-sulfhydrated modification, antiapoptosis, effects on microRNA, bidirectional effect on autophagy, antioxidant stress, or interaction with NO and CO. With advances in understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of MIRI and pharmacology studies, the design, the development, and the pharmacological characterization of H2S donor drugs have made great important progress. This review summarizes the latest research progress on the role of H2S in MIRI, systematically explains the molecular mechanism of H2S affecting MIRI, and provides a new idea for the formulation of a myocardial protection strategy in the future.

Roles and regulatory mechanisms of miR-30b in cancer, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic disorders (Review)

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are non-coding RNAs 21-23 nucleotides in length that regulate gene expression, and thereby modulate signaling pathways and protein synthesis in both physiological and pathogenic processes. miR-30b inhibits cell proliferation, migration, invasion and epithelial-mesenchymal transformation in multiple types of cancer. In addition to its role in several types of neoplasias, miR-30b has been shown to exhibit essential roles in cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. In the present review, an overview of the biological functions of miR-30b and its role in the pathogenesis of neoplastic, cardiovascular and metabolic diseases is provided. miR-30b is a potential candidate for clinical development as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker, therapeutic agent and drug target. However, further research is required to elucidate its role in health and disease and to harness its potential clinical utility.

Therapeutic Value of miRNAs in Coronary Artery Disease

Atherosclerotic ischemic coronary artery disease (CAD) is a significant community health challenge and the principal cause of morbidity and mortality in both developed and developing countries for all ethnic groups. The progressive chronic coronary atherosclerosis is the main underlying cause of CAD. Although enormous progress occurred in the last three decades in the management of cardiovascular diseases, the prevalence of CAD continues to increase worldwide, indicating the need for discovery of deeper molecular insights of CAD mechanisms, biomarkers, and innovative therapeutic targets. Recently, several research groups established that microRNAs essentially regulate various cardiovascular development and functions, and a deregulated cardiac enriched microRNA profile plays a vital role in the pathogenesis of CAD and its biological aging. Numerous studies established that over- or downregulation of a single miRNA gene by ago-miRNA or anti-miRNA is enough to modify the CAD disease process, significantly prevent age-dependent cardiac cell death, and markedly improve cardiac function. In the light of more recent experimental and clinical evidences, we briefly reviewed and discussed the involvement of miRNAs in CAD and their possible diagnostic/therapeutic values. Moreover, we also focused on the role of miRNAs in the initiation and progression of the atherosclerosis plaque as the strongest risk factor for CAD.

Early Detection of Coronary Artery Disease by Micro-RNA Analysis in Asymptomatic Patients Stratified by Coronary CT Angiography

Early detection of asymptomatic coronary artery disease (CAD) is essential but underdeveloped. The aim of this study was to assess micro-RNA (miRNA) expression profiles in patients with or without CAD as selected by coronary CT angiography (CTA) and stratified by risk of CAD as determined by Framingham Risk Score (FRS). In this pilot study, patients were divided into two groups based on the presence or absence of CAD. Disease status was determined by Coronary CTA by identification of atherosclerosis and/or calcified plaque in coronary arteries. There were 16 control subjects and 16 subjects with documented CAD. Groups were then subdivided based on FRS. Pathway-specific microarray profiling of 86 genes using miRNAs isolated from whole peripheral blood was analyzed. MiRNA were differentially expressed in patients with and without CAD and who were stratified on the basis of FRS with miRNA associated with endothelial function, cardiomyocyte protection and inflammatory response (hsa-miR-17-5p, hsa-miR-21-5p, hsa-miR-210-3p, hsa-miR-29b-3p, hsa-miR-7-5p and hsa-miR-99a-5p) consistently upregulated by greater than twofold in groups with CAD. The present study reveals that miRNA expression patterns in whole blood as selected on the basis of coronary CTA and risk scores vary significantly depending on the subject phenotype. Thus, profiling miRNA may improve early detection of CAD.

Critical functions of microRNA-30a-5p-E2F3 in cardiomyocyte apoptosis induced by hypoxia/reoxygenation

The high-mortality rate of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) is associated with the myocardial ischemia and reperfusion (I/R). Recent investigations have revealed that microRNAs (miRNAs) exert vital functions in the apoptosis of cardiomyocyte cell. Nevertheless, the potential role of miR-30a-5p in the regulation of cardiomyocyte cell apoptosis needs to be illuminated. In the current study, we observed that hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) remarkably raised the level of miR-30a-5p but reduced the expression of E2F transcription factor 3 (E2F3) in H9c2 cardiomyocytes. In vivo, miR-30a-5p was found to be significantly upregulated in the hearts of rats following I/R. Downregulation of miR-30a-5p using anti-miR-30a-5p decreased H9c2 cardiomyocytes apoptosis caused by H/R and promoted the proliferation of H9c2 inhibited by H/R. Moreover, E2F3 was a possible target gene of miR-30a-5p and upregulation of miR-30a-5p reduced the expression level of E2F3 in H9c2 cardiomyocytes. We further identified that E2F3 silencing reversed the effect of anti-miR-30a-5p on the proliferation and apoptosis in H/R treated H9c2 cells. These studies suggested that downregulation of miR-30a-5p attenuated the impact of H/R on H9c2 cardiomyocytes through targeting E2F3.

Targeting hydrogen sulphide signaling in breast cancer

Introduction

Hydrogen sulphide (H₂S) has been established as a key member of the gasotransmitters family that recently showed a pivotal role in various pathological conditions including cancer.

Objectives

This study investigated the role of H₂S in breast cancer (BC) pathogenesis, on BC immune recognition capacity and the consequence of targeting H₂S using non-coding RNAs.

Methods

Eighty BC patients have been recruited for the study. BC cell lines were cultured and transfected using validated oligonucleotide delivery system. Gene and protein expression analysis was performed using qRT-PCR, western blot and flow-cytometry. In-vitro analysis for BC hallmarks was performed using MTT, BrdU, Modified Boyden chamber, migration and colony forming assays. H₂S and nitric oxide (NO) levels were measured spectrophotometrically. Primary natural killer cells (NK cells) and T cell isolation and chimeric antigen receptor transduction (CAR T cells) were performed using appropriate kits. NK and T cells cytotoxicity was measured. Finally, computational target prediction analysis and binding confirmation analyses were performed using different software and dual luciferase assay kit, respectively.

Results

The H₂S synthesizing enzymes, cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) and cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE), exhibited elevated levels in the clinical samples that correlated with tumor proliferation index. Knock-down of CBS and CSE in the HER2+ BC and triple negative BC (TNBC) cells resulted in significant attenuation of BC malignancy. In addition to increased susceptibility of HER2+ BC and TNBC to the cytotoxic activity of HER2 targeting CAR T cells and NK cells, respectively. Transcriptomic and phosphoprotein analysis revealed that H₂S signaling is mediated through Akt in MCF7, STAT3 in MDA-MB-231 and miR-155/ NOS2/NO signaling in both cell lines. Lastly, miR-4317 was found to function as an upstream regulator of CBS and CSE synergistically abrogates the malignancy of BC cells.

Conclusion

These findings demonstrate the potential role of H₂S signaling in BC pathogenesis and the potential of its targeting for disease mitigation.

Protective mechanisms of hydrogen sulfide in myocardial ischemia

Hydrogen sulfide (H₂ S), which has been identified as the third gaseous signaling molecule after nitric oxide (NO) and carbon monoxide (CO), plays an important role in maintaining homeostasis in the cardiovascular system. Endogenous H₂ S is produced mainly by three endogenous enzymes: cystathionine β-synthase, cystathionine γ-lyase, and 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfur transferase. Numerous studies have shown that H₂ S has a significant protective role in myocardial ischemia. The mechanisms by which H₂ S affords cardioprotection include the antifibrotic and antiapoptotic effects, regulation of ion channels, protection of mitochondria, reduction of oxidative stress and inflammatory response, regulation of microRNA expression, and promotion of angiogenesis. Amplification of NO- and CO-mediated signaling through crosstalk between H₂ S, NO, and CO may also contribute to the cardioprotective effect. Exogenous H₂ S donors are expected to become effective drugs for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. This review article focuses on the protective mechanisms and potential therapeutic applications of H₂ S in myocardial ischemia.

LncRNA Oprm1 overexpression attenuates myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury by increasing endogenous hydrogen sulfide via Oprm1/miR-30b-5p/CSE axis

AIMS

Ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury largely limits the efficacy of revascularization in acute myocardial infarction. Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) Oprm1 is protective in cerebral I/R injury. This study aimed to investigate the effect of lncRNA Oprm1 on myocardial I/R injury and its mechanism.

MAIN METHODS

We ligated and then released the left anterior descending coronary artery of adult male rats to build the I/R model in vivo. At the same time, an H9c2 cardiomyocytes hypoxia-reoxygenation (H/R) model was also used. Myocardial infarction area, cardiac function, histology, TUNEL staining, cell viability, and vital protein expression was conducted and compared.

KEY FINDINGS

LncRNA Oprm1 was significantly down-regulated in the I/R injury model. When administered with the AAV9-Oprm1 vector, the myocardial injury and cardiac function were mitigated and preserved, with apoptosis reduced. The cystathionine-γ-lyase (CSE) expression and hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) expression were increased. The dual-luciferase reporter gene revealed the targeted relationship between lncRNA Oprm1 and miR-30b-5p. In H9c2 cardiomyocytes models, the miR-30b-5p blocked the protective effect of lncRNA Oprm1 on H/R injury, when Bcl-2, Bcl-xl was down-regulated, and HIF-1α, Bnip-3, Caspase-3, and Caspase-9 up-regulated.

SIGNIFICANCE

LncRNA Oprm1can competitively combines with miR-30b-5p, which down-regulates the expression of CSE. When administered with lncRNA Oprm1, increased endogenous H₂S can reduce apoptosis and protect the myocardium from I/R injury via activating PI3K/Akt pathway and inhibiting HIF1-α activity.

Cardioprotective Effect of (Z)-2-Acetoxy-3-(3,4-Dihydroxyphenyl) Acrylic Acid: Inhibition of Apoptosis in Cardiomyocytes

Background

Although many studies have been performed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of heart failure, an effective pharmacological therapy to protect cardiac tissues from severe loss of contractile function associated with heart failure after acute myocardial infarction (MI) has yet to be developed.

Methods

We examined the cardioprotective effects of (Z)-2-acetoxy-3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl) acrylic acid, a new compound with potent antioxidant and antiapoptotic activities in a rat model of heart failure. (Z)-2-Acetoxy-3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl) acrylic acid was systemically delivered to rats 6 weeks after MI at different doses (15, 30, and 60 mg/kg). Cardiac function was assessed by hemodynamic measurements. The expression of proinflammatory cytokines, apoptosis-related molecules, and markers of adverse ventricular remodeling was measured using RT-PCR and Western blot.

Results

Treatment with (Z)-2-acetoxy-3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl) acrylic acid significantly improved cardiac function, in particular by increasing dP/dt. Simultaneously, the expression of the proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1β was markedly reduced in the treatment group compared with the MI group. In addition, (Z)-2-acetoxy-3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl) acrylic acid-treated tissues displayed decreased expression of Bax, caspase-3, and caspase-9 and increased expression of Bcl-2, which was in part due to the promotion of Akt phosphorylation.

Conclusion

These data demonstrated that (Z)-2-acetoxy-3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl) acrylic acid possesses potent cardioprotective effects against cardiac injury in a rat model of heart failure, which is mediated, at least in part, by suppression of the inflammatory and cell apoptosis responses.

Prospective Advances in Non-coding RNAs Investigation

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) play significant roles in numerous physiological cellular processes and molecular alterations during pathological conditions including heart diseases, cancer, immunological disorders and neurological diseases. This chapter is focusing on the basis of ncRNA relation with their functions and prospective advances in non-coding RNAs particularly miRNAs investigation in the cardiovascular disease management.The field of ncRNAs therapeutics is a very fascinating and challenging too. Scientists have opportunity to develop more advanced therapeutics as well as diagnostic approaches for cardiovascular conditions. Advanced studies are critically needed to deepen the understanding of the molecular biology, mechanism and modulation of ncRNAs and chemical formulations for managing CVDs.

Hydrogen Sulfide as a Potential Alternative for the Treatment of Myocardial Fibrosis

Harmful, stressful conditions or events in the cardiovascular system result in cellular damage, inflammation, and fibrosis. Currently, there is no targeted therapy for myocardial fibrosis, which is highly associated with a large number of cardiovascular diseases and can lead to fatal heart failure. Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) is an endogenous gasotransmitter similar to nitric oxide and carbon monoxide. H₂S is involved in the suppression of oxidative stress, inflammation, and cellular death in the cardiovascular system. The level of H₂S in the body can be boosted by stimulating its synthesis or supplying it exogenously with a simple H₂S donor with a rapid- or slow-releasing mode, an organosulfur compound, or a hybrid with known drugs (e.g., aspirin). Hypertension, myocardial infarction, and inflammation are exaggerated when H₂S is reduced. In addition, the exogenous delivery of H₂S mitigates myocardial fibrosis caused by various pathological conditions, such as a myocardial infarct, hypertension, diabetes, or excessive β-adrenergic stimulation, via its involvement in a variety of signaling pathways. Numerous experimental findings suggest that H₂S may work as a potential alternative for the management of myocardial fibrosis. In this review, the antifibrosis role of H₂S is briefly addressed in order to gain insight into the development of novel strategies for the treatment of myocardial fibrosis.

Dexmedetomidine Postconditioning Alleviates Hypoxia/Reoxygenation Injury in Senescent Myocardial Cells by Regulating lncRNA H19 and m6A Modification

H19, a long noncoding RNA (lncRNA), reportedly protects myocardial cells (H9c2 cell line) against hypoxia-reoxygenation- (H/R-) induced injury. Dexmedetomidine (Dex) has an important myocardial protective effect, although its function and mechanism in cardiac ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, especially for senile patients, requires further study. RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most abundant endogenous RNA modification. However, the effect of Dex postconditioning on RNA m6A modification has rarely been reported. The aim of this study was to evaluate roles of H19 and m6A modification in Dex postconditioning of aged cardiomyocytes. Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) was used to induce senescence of H9c2 cells. After 6 h of hypoxia, H9c2 cells were exposed to different concentrations of dexmedetomidine (0, 500 nM, 1 μM, and 2 μM) for 6 h. After knockdown or overexpression of H19 and its downstream gene miR-29b-3p and cellular inhibitor of apoptosis protein 1 (cIAP1), Dex postconditioning experiments were performed to examine effects on myocardial cell injury. Global m6A levels after H/R with or without Dex postconditioning were measured with a colorimetric m6A RNA Methylation Quantification Kit. The mechanism by which RNA m6A methylation regulated genes mediating H19 expression was verified by m6A RNA immunoprecipitation (MeRIP), and the function of Dex postconditioning of aged cardiomyocytes was investigated. Dex postconditioning protected against H/R-induced injury of aged myocardial cells through H19/miR-29b-3p/cIAP1, increased methylation of RNA m6A elicited by H/R, and attenuated H/R-induced injury by suppressing expression of the RNA m6A demethylase gene alkB homolog 5 (ALKBH5). In addition, AKLBH5 regulated the expression of H19, and Dex postconditioning attenuated H/R-induced injury via ALKBH5 in aged cardiomyocytes.

Atherosclerotic Conditions Promote the Packaging of Functional MicroRNA-92a-3p Into Endothelial Microvesicles

RATIONALE

Microvesicle-incorporated microRNAs (miRs) are biomarkers and effectors of cardiovascular disease. Whether microvesicle-miR expression is regulated in coronary artery disease (CAD) or not is unknown.

OBJECTIVE

Here, we explore the expression of circulating microvesicle-miRs in patients with CAD and investigate the role of microvesicle-miR in endothelial cells.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Circulating microvesicles were isolated from patients' plasma by using ultracentrifugation. Electron microscopy was used to determine the size of the microvesicles. A Taqman miR array revealed certain microvesicle-miRs are significantly regulated in patients with stable CAD compared with patients with ACS. To validate the miR array results, 180 patients with angiographically excluded CAD (n=41), stable CAD (n=77), and acute coronary syndrome (n=62) were prospectively studied. Nine miRs involved in regulation of vascular performance-miR-126-3p, miR-222-3p, miR-let-7d-5p, miR-21-5p, miR-26a-5p, miR-92a-3p, miR-139-5p, miR-30b-5p, and miR-199a-5p-were quantified in circulating microvesicles by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Among these, miR-92a-3p was significantly increased in patients with CAD compared with non-CAD patients. Microvesicle-sorting experiments showed endothelial cells (ECs) were the major cell source for microvesicles containing miR-92a-3p. In vitro oxLDL (oxidized low-density lipoprotein) and IL-6 (interleukin-6) stimulation increased miR-92a-3p expression in parent ECs and upregulated the expression level of endothelial microvesicle (EMV)-incorporated miR-92a-3p. Labeling of miR-92a-3p and EMVs demonstrated that functional miR-92a-3p was transported into recipient ECs, which accelerated cell migration and proliferation. Knockdown of miR-92a-3p in EMVs abrogated EMV-mediated effects on EC migration, proliferation, and blocked vascular network formation in a matrigel plug. Polymerase chain reaction-based gene profiling showed that the expression of THBS1 (thrombospondin 1) protein-a target of miR-92a-3p and an inhibitor of angiogenesis-was significantly reduced in ECs by EMVs. Knockdown of miR-92a-3p in EMVs abrogated EMV-mediated inhibition of the THBS1 gene and protein expression.

CONCLUSIONS

Atherosclerotic conditions promote the packaging of endothelial miR-92a-3p into EMVs. EMV-mediated transfer of functional miR-92a-3p regulates angiogenesis in recipient ECs by a THBS1-dependent mechanism.

Down-regulation of miR-30b-5p protects cardiomyocytes against hypoxia-induced injury by targeting Aven

Background

Ischemia/hypoxia-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis has been considered as a main cause of myocardial infarction. Here, we aimed to investigate the functional role of miR-30b-5p in hypoxic cardiomyocytes.

Methods

AC16 human cardiomyocytes were cultured under hypoxia to simulate myocardial infarction. A qRT-PCR assay was performed to determine miR-30b-5p expression in hypoxic cardiomyocytes. Cell survival, injury and apoptosis were assessed by MTT, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, and flow cytometry assays, respectively. The target gene of miR-30b-5p in hypoxic cardiomyocytes was validated by luciferase reporter assay and Western blotting.

Results

MiR-30b-5p expression was found to be significantly upregulated in hypoxic AC16 cells. The in vitro experiments showed that downregulation of miR-30b-5p effectively alleviated hypoxia-induced cardiomyocyte injury. Furthermore, Aven is a potential target gene of miR-30b-5p and its downregulation could partially reverse the influence of miR-30b-5p knockdown on AC16 cells under hypoxia.

Conclusions

Inhibition of miR-30b-5p could protect cardiomyocytes against hypoxia-induced injury by targeting Aven.

The microRNA in ventricular remodeling: the miR-30 family

Ventricular remodeling (VR) is a complex pathological process of cardiomyocyte apoptosis, cardiac hypertrophy, and myocardial fibrosis, which is often caused by various cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) such as hypertension, acute myocardial infarction, heart failure (HF), etc. It is also an independent risk factor for a variety of CVDs, which will eventually to damage the heart function, promote cardiovascular events, and lead to an increase in mortality. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) can participate in a variety of CVDs through post-transcriptional regulation of target gene proteins. Among them, microRNA-30 (miR-30) is one of the most abundant miRNAs in the heart. In recent years, the study found that the miR-30 family can participate in VR through a variety of mechanisms, including autophagy, apoptosis, oxidative stress, and inflammation. VR is commonly found in ischemic heart disease (IHD), hypertensive heart disease (HHD), diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM), antineoplastic drug cardiotoxicity (CTX), and other CVDs. Therefore, we will review the relevant mechanisms of the miR-30 in VR induced by various diseases.

Core-Shell Polymer-Based Nanoparticles Deliver miR-155-5p to Endothelial Cells

Heart failure occurs in over 30% of the worldwide population and most commonly originates from cardiovascular diseases such as myocardial infarction. microRNAs (miRNAs) target and silence specific mRNAs, thereby regulating gene expression. Because the endogenous miR-155-5p has been ascribed to vasculoprotection, loading it onto positively charged, core-shell poly(isobutylcyanoacrylate) (PIBCA)-polysaccharide nanoparticles (NPs) was attempted. NPs showed a decrease (p < 0.0001) in surface electrical charge (ζ potential), with negligible changes in size or shape when loaded with the anionic miR-155-5p. Presence of miR-155-5p in loaded NPs was further quantified. Cytocompatibility up to 100 μg/mL of NPs for 2 days with human coronary artery endothelial cells (hCAECs) was documented. NPs were able to enter hCAECs and were localized in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Expression of miR-155-5p was increased within the cells by 75-fold after 4 hours of incubation (p < 0.05) and was still noticeable at day 2. Differences between loaded NP-cultured cells and free miRNA, at days 1 (p < 0.05) and 2 (p < 0.001) suggest the ability of prolonged load release in physiological conditions. Expression of miR-155-5p downstream target BACH1 was decreased in the cells by 4-fold after 1 day of incubation (p < 0.05). This study is a first proof of concept that miR-155-5p can be loaded onto NPs and remain intact and biologically active in endothelial cells (ECs). These nanosystems could potentially increase an endogenous cytoprotective response and decrease damage within infarcted hearts.

ZYZ-803 Mitigates Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress-Related Necroptosis after Acute Myocardial Infarction through Downregulating the RIP3-CaMKII Signaling Pathway

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and both cardiac necroptosis and endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) have been involved in the pathophysiology of AMI. ZYZ-803 is a hybrid molecule of a dual donor for gasotransmitters H₂S and NO. The aim of the present study is to investigate the antinecroptosis role and potential mechanisms of ZYZ-803 in the setting of ERS during AMI injury. In vivo, ZYZ-803 preserves cardiac function and reduces infarct size significantly after 24-hour left coronary artery ligation through revising H₂S and NO imbalance. In addition, ZYZ-803 relieves ERS and necroptosis in an AMI heart. In vitro, ZYZ-803 ameliorates ERS-related necroptosis induced by tunicamycin, and such effect has been depending on the receptor-interacting protein 3- (RIP3-) Ca²⁺-calmodulin-dependent protein kinase (CaMKII) signaling pathway. These findings have identified a novel antinecroptosis potential of ZYZ-803, providing a valuable candidate for cardioprotection in acute myocardial ischemia.

miR-30e-5p Mitigates Hypoxia-Induced Apoptosis in Human Stem Cell-Derived Cardiomyocytes by Suppressing Bim

Coronary microembolization can cause slow or no reflow, which is one of the crucial reasons for reverse of clinical advantage from cardiac reperfusion therapy. miRNAs and apoptosis are dramatically involved in the occurrence and process of cardiovascular diseases. Fortunately, human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs) have emerged as an appealing model for the evaluation of cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, our study was designed to explore the role of miR-30e-5p and apoptosis in a hypoxia-induced hiPSC-CM injury model. Our results showed that the expression levels of miR-30e-5p were overtly downregulated in a time-dependent manner under hypoxic conditions. Expression of miR-30e-5p was significantly downregulated after 24 hours of hypoxia, hypoxia treatment dramatically induced apoptosis. Calcium handling capability significantly decreased after 24 hours of hypoxia treatment. miR-30e-5p overexpression partially mitigated hypoxia-induced apoptosis and rescued hypoxia-induced calcium handling defects in hiPSC-CMs. The luciferase reporter assay showed that miR-30e-5p can directly target the 3'-UTR of Bim, which is an apoptosis activator and autophagy suppressor. The mRNA and protein of Bim remarkably increased after hypoxia treatment and reduced with miR-30e-5p overexpression. Moreover, downregulation of Bim mitigated hypoxia-induced apoptosis and activated autophagy. These results demonstrated that miR-30e-5p mitigated hypoxia-induced apoptosis in hiPSC-CMs at least in part via Bim suppression and subsequent autophagy activation. Our study suggested miR-30e-5p may act as a potential therapeutic target for coronary microembolization.

Adenomatous polyposis coli as a predictor of environmental chemical-induced transgenerational effects related to male infertility

Exposure to toxic environmental chemicals during pregnancy is a ubiquitous threat to health with potentially transgenerational consequences. However, the underlying mechanism of how transgenerational effects occur as part of environmental chemical exposure are not well understood. We investigated the potential molecular changes associated with dibutyl phthalate exposure that induced transgenerational effects, using a rat model. Through the analysis of the Gene Expression Omnibus database, we found some similar studies of environmental exposure induced transgenerational effects. Then, we analyzed one of the studies and our results to identify the adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) gene. This gene participated the most of the pathways and was upregulated in both studies. We used the miRWALK data set to predict the microRNAs which targeted the APC gene. We confirmed the miR-30 family were significantly downregulated in F3 testis tissues and targeted the APC gene. In conclusion, the miR-30 family/APC interaction is a potential mechanism for the transgenerational effects induced by the environmental chemical.

Semaphorin 3A Contributes to Secondary Blood-Brain Barrier Damage After Traumatic Brain Injury

Semaphorin 3A (SEMA3A) is a member of the Semaphorins family, a class of membrane-associated protein that participates in the construction of nerve networks. SEMA3A has been reported to affect vascular permeability previously, but its influence in traumatic brain injury (TBI) is still unknown. To investigate the effects of SEMA3A, we used a mouse TBI model with a controlled cortical impact (CCI) device and a blood–brain barrier (BBB) injury model in vitro with oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD). We tested post-TBI changes in SEMA3A, and its related receptors (Nrp-1 and plexin-A1) expression and distribution through western blotting and double-immunofluorescence staining, respectively. Neurological outcomes were evaluated by modified neurological severity scores (mNSSs) and beam-walking test. We examined BBB damage through Evans Blue dye extravasation, brain water content, and western blotting for VE-cadherin and p-VE-cadherin in vivo, and we examined the endothelial cell barrier through hopping probe ion conductance microscopy (HPICM), transwell leakage, and western blotting for VE-cadherin and p-VE-cadherin in vitro. Changes in miR-30b-5p were assessed by RT-PCR. Finally, the neuroprotective function of miR-30b-5p is measured by brain water content, mNSSs and beam-walking test. SEMA3A expression varied following TBI and peaked on the third day which expressed approximate fourfold increase compared with sham group, with the protein concentrated at the lesion boundary. SEMA3A contributed to neurological function deficits and secondary BBB damage in vivo. Our results demonstrated that SEMA3A level following OGD injury almost doubled than control group, and the negative effects of OGD injury can be improved by blocking SEMA3A expression. Furthermore, the expression of miR-30b-5p decreased approximate 40% at the third day and 60% at the seventh day post-CCI. OGD injury also exhibited an effect to approximately decrease 50% of miR-30b-5p expression. Additionally, the expression of SEMA3A post-TBI is regulated by miR-30b-5p, and miR-30b-5p could improve neurological outcomes post-TBI efficiently. Our results demonstrate that SEMA3A is a significant factor in secondary BBB damage after TBI and can be abolished by miR-30b-5p, which represents a potential therapeutic target.

Role of microRNAs in doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity: an overview of preclinical models and cancer patients

Cardiotoxicity is a well-known side effect of doxorubicin (DOX), but the mechanisms leading to this phenomenon are still not completely clear. Prediction of drug-induced dysfunction onset is difficult and is still largely based on detection of cardiac troponin (cTn), a circulating marker of heart damage. In the last years, several investigations focused on the possible involvement of microRNAs (miRNAs) in DOX-induced toxicity in vitro, with contrasting results. Recently, several groups employed animal models to mimic patient’s condition, investigate the biological pathways perturbed by DOX, and identify diagnostic markers of cardiotoxicity. We reviewed the results from several studies investigating cardiac miRNAs expression in rodent models of DOX-treatment. We also discussed the data from two publications indicating the possible use of circulating miRNA as biomarkers of DOX-induced cardiotoxicity. Unfortunately, limited information was derived from these studies, as selection methods of candidate-miRNAs and heterogeneity in cardiotoxicity assessment greatly hampered the novelty and robustness of the findings. Nevertheless, at least one circulating miRNA, miR-1, showed a good potential as early biomarker of drug-mediated cardiac dysfunction onset. The use of animal models to investigate DOX-induced cardiotoxicity surely helps narrowing the gap between basic research and clinical practice. Despite this, several issues, including selection of relevant miRNAs and less-than-optimal assessment of cardiotoxicity, greatly limited the results obtained so far. Nonetheless, the association of patients-based studies with the use of preclinical models may be the key to address the many unanswered questions regarding the pathophysiology and early detection of cardiotoxicity.

Role of miRNA in the Regulatory Mechanisms of Estrogens in Cardiovascular Ageing

Cardiovascular diseases are a worldwide health problem and are the leading cause of mortality in developed countries. Together with experimental data, the lower incidence of cardiovascular diseases in women than in men of reproductive age points to the influence of sex hormones at the cardiovascular level and suggests that estrogens play a protective role against cardiovascular disease and that this role is also modified by ageing. Estrogens affect cardiovascular function via their specific estrogen receptors to trigger gene expression changes at the transcriptional level. In addition, emerging studies have proposed a role for microRNAs in the vascular effects mediated by estrogens. miRNAs regulate gene expression by repressing translational processes and have been estimated to be involved in the regulation of approximately 30% of all protein-coding genes in mammals. In this review, we highlight the current knowledge of the role of estrogen-sensitive miRNAs, and their influence in regulating vascular ageing.