Cell cycle arrest and apoptosis provoked by UV radiation-induced DNA damage are transcriptionally highly divergent responses

Germicidal lamps using UV-C radiation may pose health safety issues: a biomolecular analysis of their effects on apoptosis and senescence

The battle against the COVID-19 pandemic has spurred a heightened state of vigilance in global healthcare, leading to the proliferation of diverse sanitization methods. Among these approaches, germicidal lamps utilizing ultraviolet (UV) rays, particularly UV-C (wavelength ranging from 280 to 100 nm), have gained prominence for domestic use. These light-emitting diode (LED) lamps are designed to sanitize the air, objects, and surfaces. However, the prevailing concern is that these UV lamps are often introduced into the market without adequate accompanying information to ensure their safe utilization. Importantly, exposure to absorbed UV light can potentially trigger adverse biological responses, encompassing cell death and senescence. Our research encompassed a series of investigations aimed at comprehending the biological repercussions of UV-C radiation exposure from readily available domestic lamps. Our focus centered on epithelial retinal cells, keratinocytes, and fibroblasts, components of the skin and ocular targets frequently exposed to UV irradiation. Our findings underscore the potential harm associated with even brief exposure to UV, leading to irreversible and detrimental alterations in both skin cells and retinal cells of the eye. Notably, epithelial retinal cells exhibited heightened sensitivity, marked by substantial apoptosis. In contrast, keratinocytes demonstrated resilience to apoptosis even at elevated UV doses, though they were prone to senescence. Meanwhile, fibroblasts displayed a gradual amplification of both senescence and apoptosis as radiation doses escalated. In summary, despite the potential benefits offered by UV-C in deactivating pathogens like SARS-CoV-2, it remains evident that the concurrent risks posed by UV-C to human health cannot be ignored.

Targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and small molecules and peptidomimetics as emerging immunoregulatory agents for melanoma

Primary cutaneous melanoma is the most lethal of all skin neoplasms and its incidence is increasing. Clinical management of advanced melanoma in the last decade has been revolutionised by the availability of immunotherapies and targeted therapies, used alone and in combination. This article summarizes advances in the treatment of late-stage melanoma including use of protein kinase inhibitors, antibody-based immune checkpoint inhibitors, adoptive immunotherapy, vaccines and more recently, small molecules and peptidomimetics as emerging immunoregulatory agents.

Protein expression of nucleolar protein 12 in the retina and its implication in protection of retina from UV irradiation damage

Nucleolar protein 12 (NOL12), one of the nucleolar proteins which are primarily expressed in the nucleolus and play key roles in RNA metabolism, cell proliferation, cell cycle, and cell survival, is widely expressed in various species and multiple organs. Although it has been reported that the mRNA of Drosophila NOL12 homolog viriato is expressed in the eyes of Drosophila, the protein expression of NOL12 in mammalian eyes remains to be elucidated. In this study, we showed through immunohistochemistry that NOL12 was present in the rat retina, with predominant distribution in the cytoplasm of the retinal neuronal cells. In the human retinoblastoma cell line WERI-Rb1, we found that altering NOL12 expression led to a change in WERI-Rb1 cell viability. Knocking down NOL12 expression decreased cell viability. In contrast, overexpressing NOL12 increased cell viability. Furthermore, increasing NOL12 expression inhibited ultraviolet (UV)-induced apoptosis. These findings demonstrated that NOL12 may play an important protective role in retinal cells. In the WERI-Rb1 cells exposed to UV irradiation, we detected that NOL12 was degraded, but this degradation could be attenuated by a pan-Caspase inhibitor. Notably, the inhibitory effect of NOL12 against UV-induced apoptosis could be restrained by increasing the expression of ATR serine/threonine kinase (ATR), a kinase that, when activated by severe DNA damage, can result in apoptosis. We also found that upregulating NOL12 inhibited the activation of ATR caused by UV irradiation. Additionally, inhibiting ATR activity reduced apoptosis resulting from both silencing NOL12 expression and UV exposure. Thus, NOL12 may protect against UV irradiation-induced retinal damage by inhibiting ATR activity.

Host transcriptome response to heat stress and Eimeria maxima infection in meat-type chickens

Eimeria (E.) maxima parasite infects chickens' midgut disrupting the jejunal and ileal mucosa causing high morbidity and mortality. Heat stress (HS) is a seasonal stressor that impacts biological functions leading to poor performance. This study elucidates how HS, E. maxima infection, and their combination affect the ileum transcriptome. Two-hundred and forty 2-week-old males Ross708 chickens were randomly allocated into four treatment groups: thermoneutral-control (TNc), thermoneutral-infected (TNi), heat-stress control (HSc), and heat stress-infected (HSi), with 6 replicates each of 10 birds. Infected groups received 200x103 sporulated E. maxima oocysts/bird, and heat-treated groups were raised at 35°C. At 6-day post-treatment, ileums of five randomly selected chickens per group were sampled, RNA was extracted and sequenced. A total of 413, 3377, 1908, and 2304 DEGs were identified when applying the comparisons: TNc vs HSc, TNc vs TNi, HSi vs HSc, and TNi vs HSi, respectively, at cutoff ≥1.2-fold change (FDR: q<0.05). HSc vs TNc showed upregulation of lipid metabolic pathways and degradation/metabolism of multiple amino acids; and downregulation of most immune-related and protein synthesis pathways. TNc vs TNi displayed upregulation of most of immune-associated pathways and eukaryotic mRNA maturation pathways; and downregulation of fatty acid metabolism and multiple amino acid metabolism pathways including tryptophan. Comparing HSi versus HSc and TNi revealed that combining the two stressors restored the expression of some cellular functions, e.g., oxidative phosphorylation and protein synthesis; and downregulate immune response pathways associated with E. maxima infection. During E. maxima infection under HS the calcium signaling pathway was downregulated, including genes responsible for increasing the cytoplasmic calcium concentration; and tryptophan metabolism was upregulated, including genes that contribute to catabolizing tryptophan through serotonin and indole pathways; which might result in reducing the cytoplasmic pool of nutrients and calcium available for the parasite to scavenge and consequently might affect the parasite's reproductive ability.

Photon spectra effects tested on the vegetal model Allium cepa

The use of artificial light sources in plants is considered a type of photobiomodulation (PBM), a trend in agriculture and food industries, aiming at decontamination, pest control, and increased production yield. However, literature lacks a broader assessment to address the effects of photon light spectra on plant characteristics. Here, we aimed to describe the effects of visible light, infrared, and ultraviolet light upon Allium cepa, a known bioindicator, under various light doses. Samples irradiated under visible and infrared light did not show cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, or mutagenicity in any of the evaluated doses. Light induction at 460 and 635 nm significantly stimulated root development of the test organism. In contrast, 254 nm irradiation proved to be cytotoxic, genotoxic, and mutagenic. This work reveals and quantifies the spectral response of A. cepa seeds, suggesting that it can be proposed as a model for future research on mechanisms of PBM in plants.

Leveraging 3D Bioprinting and Photon-Counting Computed Tomography to Enable Noninvasive Quantitative Tracking of Multifunctional Tissue Engineered Constructs

3D bioprinting is revolutionizing the fields of personalized and precision medicine by enabling the manufacturing of bioartificial implants that recapitulate the structural and functional characteristics of native tissues. However, the lack of quantitative and noninvasive techniques to longitudinally track the function of implants has hampered clinical applications of bioprinted scaffolds. In this study, multimaterial 3D bioprinting, engineered nanoparticles (NPs), and spectral photon-counting computed tomography (PCCT) technologies are integrated for the aim of developing a new precision medicine approach to custom-engineer scaffolds with traceability. Multiple CT-visible hydrogel-based bioinks, containing distinct molecular (iodine and gadolinium) and NP (iodine-loaded liposome, gold, methacrylated gold (AuMA), and Gd2 O3 ) contrast agents, are used to bioprint scaffolds with varying geometries at adequate fidelity levels. In vitro release studies, together with printing fidelity, mechanical, and biocompatibility tests identified AuMA and Gd2 O3 NPs as optimal reagents to track bioprinted constructs. Spectral PCCT imaging of scaffolds in vitro and subcutaneous implants in mice enabled noninvasive material discrimination and contrast agent quantification. Together, these results establish a novel theranostic platform with high precision, tunability, throughput, and reproducibility and open new prospects for a broad range of applications in the field of precision and personalized regenerative medicine.

CSF1R-dependent macrophages in the salivary gland are essential for epithelial regeneration after radiation-induced injury

The salivary glands often become damaged in individuals receiving radiotherapy for head and neck cancer, resulting in chronic dry mouth. This leads to detrimental effects on their health and quality of life, for which there is no regenerative therapy. Macrophages are the predominant immune cell in the salivary glands and are attractive therapeutic targets due to their unrivaled capacity to drive tissue repair. Yet, the nature and role of macrophages in salivary gland homeostasis and how they may contribute to tissue repair after injury are not well understood. Here, we show that at least two phenotypically and transcriptionally distinct CX3CR1+ macrophage populations are present in the adult salivary gland, which occupy anatomically distinct niches. CD11c+CD206-CD163- macrophages typically associate with gland epithelium, whereas CD11c-CD206+CD163+ macrophages associate with blood vessels and nerves. Using a suite of complementary fate mapping systems, we show that there are highly dynamic changes in the ontogeny and composition of salivary gland macrophages with age. Using an in vivo model of radiation-induced salivary gland injury combined with genetic or antibody-mediated depletion of macrophages, we demonstrate an essential role for macrophages in clearance of cells with DNA damage. Furthermore, we show that epithelial-associated macrophages are indispensable for effective tissue repair and gland function after radiation-induced injury, with their depletion resulting in reduced saliva production. Our data, therefore, provide a strong case for exploring the therapeutic potential of manipulating macrophages to promote tissue repair and thus minimize salivary gland dysfunction after radiotherapy.

Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals Novel Regulators of the Scots Pine Stilbene Pathway

Stilbenes accumulate in Scots pine heartwood where they have important roles in protecting wood from decaying fungi. They are also part of active defense responses, and their production is induced by different (a)biotic stressors. The specific transcriptional regulators as well as the enzyme responsible for activating the stilbene precursor cinnamate in the pathway are still unknown. UV-C radiation was the first discovered artificial stress activator of the pathway. Here, we describe a large-scale transcriptomic analysis of pine needles in response to UV-C and treatment with translational inhibitors, both activating the transcription of stilbene pathway genes. We used the data to identify putative candidates for the missing CoA ligase and for pathway regulators. We further showed that the pathway is transcriptionally activated by phosphatase inhibitor, ethylene and jasmonate treatments, as in grapevine, and that the stilbene synthase promoter retains its inducibility in some of the tested conditions in Arabidopsis, a species that normally does not synthesize stilbenes. Shared features between gymnosperm and angiosperm regulation and partially retained inducibility in Arabidopsis suggest that pathway regulation occurs not only via ancient stress-response pathway(s) but also via species-specific regulators. Understanding which genes control the biosynthesis of stilbenes in Scots pine aids breeding of more resistant trees.

Novel insights into bulky DNA damage formation and nucleotide excision repair from high-resolution genomics

DNA damages compromise cell function and fate. Cells of all organisms activate a global DNA damage response that includes a signaling stress response, activation of checkpoints, and recruitment of repair enzymes. Especially deleterious are bulky, helix-distorting damages that block transcription and replication. Due to their miscoding nature, these damages lead to mutations and cancer. In human cells, bulky DNA damages are repaired by nucleotide excision repair (NER). To date, the basic mechanism of NER in naked DNA is well defined. Still, there is a fundamental gap in our understanding of how repair is orchestrated despite the packaging of DNA in chromatin, and how it is coordinated with active transcription and replication. The last decade has brought forth huge advances in our ability to detect and assay bulky DNA damages and their repair at single nucleotide resolution across the human genome. Here we review recent findings on the effect of chromatin and DNA-binding proteins on the formation of bulky DNA damages, and novel insights on NER, provided by the recent application of genomic methods.

Proteomics Reveals How the Tardigrade Damage Suppressor Protein Teaches Transfected Human Cells to Survive UV-C Stress

The genome sequencing of the tardigrade Ramazzottius varieornatus revealed a unique nucleosome-binding protein named damage suppressor (Dsup), which was discovered to be crucial for the extraordinary abilities of tardigrades in surviving extreme stresses, such as UV. Evidence in Dsup-transfected human cells suggests that Dsup mediates an overall response in DNA damage signaling, DNA repair, and cell cycle regulation, resulting in an acquired resistance to stress. Given these promising outcomes, our study attempts to provide a wider comprehension of the molecular mechanisms modulated by Dsup in human cells and to explore the Dsup-activated molecular pathways under stress. We performed a differential proteomic analysis of Dsup-transfected and control human cells under basal conditions and at 24 h recovery after exposure to UV-C. We demonstrate via enrichment and network analyses, for the first time, that even in the absence of external stimuli, and more significantly, after stress, Dsup activates mechanisms involved with the unfolded protein response, the mRNA processing and stability, cytoplasmic stress granules, the DNA damage response, and the telomere maintenance. In conclusion, our results shed new light on Dsup-mediated protective mechanisms and increases our knowledge of the molecular machineries of extraordinary protection against UV-C stress.

ISG15: A link between innate immune signaling, DNA replication, and genome stability

Interferon stimulated gene 15 (ISG15) encodes a ubiquitin-like protein that is highly induced upon activation of interferon signaling and cytoplasmic DNA sensing pathways. As part of the innate immune system ISG15 acts to inhibit viral replication and particle release via the covalent conjugation to both viral and host proteins. Unlike ubiquitin, unconjugated ISG15 also functions as an intracellular and extra-cellular signaling molecule to modulate the immune response. Several recent studies have shown ISG15 to also function in a diverse array of cellular processes and pathways outside of the innate immune response. This review explores the role of ISG15 in maintaining genome stability, particularly during DNA replication, and how this relates to cancer biology. It puts forth the hypothesis that ISG15, along with DNA sensors, function within a DNA replication fork surveillance pathway to help maintain genome stability.

A Pathogenic Role of Non-Parenchymal Liver Cells in Alcohol-Associated Liver Disease of Infectious and Non-Infectious Origin

Now, much is known regarding the impact of chronic and heavy alcohol consumption on the disruption of physiological liver functions and the induction of structural distortions in the hepatic tissues in alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD). This review deliberates the effects of alcohol on the activity and properties of liver non-parenchymal cells (NPCs), which are either residential or infiltrated into the liver from the general circulation. NPCs play a pivotal role in the regulation of organ inflammation and fibrosis, both in the context of hepatotropic infections and in non-infectious settings. Here, we overview how NPC functions in ALD are regulated by second hits, such as gender and the exposure to bacterial or viral infections. As an example of the virus-mediated trigger of liver injury, we focused on HIV infections potentiated by alcohol exposure, since this combination was only limitedly studied in relation to the role of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) in the development of liver fibrosis. The review specifically focusses on liver macrophages, HSC, and T-lymphocytes and their regulation of ALD pathogenesis and outcomes. It also illustrates the activation of NPCs by the engulfment of apoptotic bodies, a frequent event observed when hepatocytes are exposed to ethanol metabolites and infections. As an example of such a double-hit-induced apoptotic hepatocyte death, we deliberate on the hepatotoxic accumulation of HIV proteins, which in combination with ethanol metabolites, causes intensive hepatic cell death and pro-fibrotic activation of HSCs engulfing these HIV- and malondialdehyde-expressing apoptotic hepatocytes.

Evaluation of Personalized Skincare Through in-silico Gene Interactive Networks and Cellular Responses to UVR and Oxidative Stress

Purpose

Personalized approaches in dermatology are designed to match the specific requirements based on the individual genetic makeup. One major factor accounting for the differences in skin phenotypes is single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) within several genes with diverse roles that extend beyond skin tone and pigmentation. Therefore, the cellular sensitivities to the environmental stress and damage linked to extrinsic aging could also underlie the individual characteristics of the skin and dictate the unique skin care requirements. This study aimed to identify the likely biomarkers and molecular signatures expressed in skin cells of different ethnic backgrounds, which could aid further the design of personalized skin products based on specific demands.

Methods

Using data mining and in-silico modeling, the association of SNP-affected genes with three major skin types of European, Asian and African origin was analyzed and compared within the structure-function gene interaction networks. Cultured dermal fibroblasts were subsequently subjected to ultraviolet radiation and oxidative stress and analyzed for DNA damage and senescent markers. The protective applications of two cosmetic ingredients, Resveratrol and Quercetin, were validated in both cellular and in-silico models.

Results

Each skin type was characterized by the presence of SNPs in the genes controlling facultative and constitutive pigmentation, which could also underlie the major differences in responses to photodamage, such as oxidative stress, inflammation, and barrier homeostasis. Skin-type-specific dermal fibroblasts cultured in-vitro demonstrated distinctive sensitivities to ultraviolet radiation and oxidative stress, which could be modulated further by the bioactive compounds with the predicted capacities to interact with some of the genes in the in-silico models.

Conclusion

Evaluation of the SNP-affected gene networks and likely sensitivities of skin cells, defined as low threshold levels to extrinsic stress factors, can provide a valuable tool for the design and formulation of personalized skin products that match more accurately diverse ethnic backgrounds.

RNA-binding protein ZCCHC4 promotes human cancer chemoresistance by disrupting DNA-damage-induced apoptosis

RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) play important roles in cancer development and treatment. However, the tumor-promoting RBPs and their partners, which may potentially serve as the cancer therapeutic targets, need to be further identified. Here, we report that zinc finger CCHC domain-containing protein 4 (ZCCHC4) is of aberrantly high expression in multiple human cancer tissues and is associated with poor prognosis and chemoresistance in patients of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), pancreatic cancer and colon cancer. ZCCHC4 promotes chemoresistance of HCC cells to DNA-damage agent (DDA) both in vitro and in vivo. HCC cell deficiency of ZCCHC4 reduces tumor growth in vivo and intratumoral interference of ZCCHC4 expression obviously enhances the DDA-induced antitumor effect. Mechanistically, ZCCHC4 inhibits DNA-damage-induced apoptosis in HCC cells by interacting with a new long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) AL133467.2 to hamper its pro-apoptotic function. Also, ZCCHC4 blocks the interaction between AL133467.2 and γH2AX upon DDA treatment to inhibit apoptotic signaling and promote chemoresistance to DDAs. Knockout of ZCCHC4 promotes AL133467.2 and γH2AX interaction for enhancing chemosensitivity in HCC cells. Together, our study identifies ZCCHC4 as a new predictor of cancer poor prognosis and a potential target for improving chemotherapy effects, providing mechanistic insights to the roles of RBPs and their partners in cancer progression and chemoresistance.

Does Ultraviolet Radiation Exhibit Antimicrobial Effect against Oral Pathogens Attached on Various Dental Implant Surfaces? A Systematic Review

Background: Dental implant therapy is currently identified as the most effective treatment for edentulous patient. However, peri-implant inflammations were found to be one of the most common complications that leads to the loss and failure of dental implantation. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation has been proposed to enhance bone integration and reduce bacterial attachment. In this study, we aimed to systematically review the current evidence regarding the antimicrobial effect of UV on different dental implant surfaces. Methods: Five databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of science, VHL, and Cochran Library were searched to retrieve relevant articles. All original reports that examined the effect of the application of UV radiation on dental implants were included in our study. Results: A total of 16 in vitro studies were included in this systematic review. Polymethyl methacrylate UV radiation has induced a significant decrease in bacterial survival in PMMA materials, with an increased effect by modification with 2.5% and 5% TiO₂ nanotubes. UV-C showed a superior effect to UV-A in reducing bacterial attachment and accumulation. UV wavelength of 265 and 285 nm showed powerful bactericidal effects. UV of 365 nm for 24 h had the highest inhibition of bacterial growth in ZnO coated magnesium alloys. In UV-irradiated commercially pure titanium surfaces treated with plasma electrolytic oxidation, silver ion application, heat or alkali had shown significant higher bactericidal effect vs non-irradiated treated surfaces than the treatment with any of them alone. UVC and gamma-ray irradiation increased the hydrophilicity of zirconia surface, compared to the dry heat. Conclusion: UV radiation on Ti surfaces exhibited significant antibacterial effects demonstrated through the reduction in bacterial attachment and biofilm formation with suppression of bacterial cells growth. Combination of UV and treated surfaces with alkali, plasma electrolytic oxidation, silver ion application or heat enhance the overall photocatalytic antimicrobial effect.

Noninvasive Physical Plasma as Innovative and Tissue-Preserving Therapy for Women Positive for Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia

Simple Summary

The treatment of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) is still associated with the use of invasive therapeutic procedures. Although CIN 1/2 lesions show high remission rates, treatment is necessary in individual cases and noninvasive and oncologically safe therapeutic options should be available for these patients. Here, we characterized the antineoplastic properties of noninvasive physical plasma (NIPP) at the in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo levels and performed a prospective, single-armed phase-IIb trial on 20 patients with CIN1/2 (NCT03218436). NIPP-treated dysplastic cell models exhibited significant cell growth retardation due to DNA damage, cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. A tissue level analysis showed a transmucosal tissue devitalization while preserving the tissue morphology. Within 24 weeks of follow-up, treatment success was achieved in 19 (95%) participants with CIN 1/2 without peri- or postinterventional complications. Therefore, NIPP may be a sufficient treatment alternative for CIN, other mucosal dysplasia and beyond.

Abstract

(1) Background: Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) of long-term persistence or associated with individual treatment indications often requires highly invasive treatments. These are associated with risks of bleeding, infertility, and pregnancy complications. For low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), standard treatment procedures are difficult to implement and manage. We characterized the application of the highly energized gas “noninvasive physical plasma” (NIPP) for tissue devitalization and the treatment of CIN. (2) Methods: We report the establishment of a promising tissue devitalization procedure by NIPP application. The procedure was characterized at the in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo levels. We performed the first prospective, single-armed phase-IIb trial in 20 CIN1/2 patients (NCT03218436). (3) Results: NIPP-treated cervical cancer cells used as dysplastic in vitro model exhibited significant cell growth retardation due to DNA damage, cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Ex vivo and in vivo tissue assessments showed a highly noninvasive and tissue-preserving treatment procedure which induces transmucosal tissue devitalization. Twenty participants were treated with NIPP and attended a 24-week follow-up. Treatment success was achieved in 19 (95%) participants without postinterventional complications other than mild to moderate discomfort during application. (4) Conclusions: The results from this study preliminarily suggest that NIPP could be used for an effective and tissue-preserving treatment for CIN without the disadvantages of standard treatments. However, randomized controlled trials must confirm the efficacy and noninferiority of NIPP compared to standard treatments.

Beta human papillomavirus 8 E6 allows colocalization of non-homologous end joining and homologous recombination repair factors

Beta human papillomavirus (β-HPV) are hypothesized to make DNA damage more mutagenic and potentially more carcinogenic. Double strand breaks (DSBs) are the most deleterious DNA lesion. They are typically repaired by homologous recombination (HR) or non-homologous end joining (NHEJ). HR occurs after DNA replication while NHEJ can occur at any point in the cell cycle. HR and NHEJ are not thought to occur in the same cell at the same time. HR is restricted to cells in phases of the cell cycle where homologous templates are available, while NHEJ occurs primarily during G1. β-HPV type 8 protein E6 (8E6) attenuates both repair pathways. We use a series of immunofluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry experiments to better define the impact of this attenuation. We found that 8E6 causes colocalization of HR factors (RPA70 and RAD51) with an NHEJ factor (activated DNA-PKcs or pDNA-PKcs) at persistent DSBs. 8E6 also causes RAD51 foci to form during G1. The initiation of NHEJ and HR at the same lesion could lead to antagonistic DNA end processing. Further, HR cannot be readily completed in an error-free manner during G1. Both aberrant repair events would cause deletions. To determine if these mutations were occurring, we used next generation sequencing of the 200kb surrounding a CAS9-induced DSB. 8E6 caused a 21-fold increase in deletions. Chemical and genetic inhibition of p300 as well as an 8E6 mutant that is incapable of destabilizing p300 demonstrates that 8E6 is acting via p300 destabilization. More specific chemical inhibitors of DNA repair provided mechanistic insight by mimicking 8E6-induced dysregulation of DNA repair in a virus-free system. Specifically, inhibition of NHEJ causes RAD51 foci to form in G1 and colocalization of RAD51 with pDNA-PKcs.

Our previous work shows that a master transcription regulator, p300, facilitates two major DNA double strand break (DSB) repair pathways: non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) and homologous recombination (HR). By degrading p300, beta genus human papillomavirus 8 protein E6 (8E6) hinders pDNA-PKcs resolution, an essential step during NHEJ. NHEJ and HR are known to compete, with only one pathway initiating repair of a DSB. NHEJ tends to be used in G1 and HR occurs in S/G2. Here, we show that 8E6 allows NHEJ and HR to initiate at the same break site. We show that 8E6 allows HR to initiate in G1, suggesting that NHEJ starts but fails before HR is initiated at the same DSB. Next generation sequencing of the region surrounding a CAS9-induced DSB supports our hypothesis that this dysregulation of DSB repair is mutagenic as 8E6 caused a 15- to 20-fold increase in mutations associated with a CAS9-induced DSB. These studies support the putative role of HPV8 infections in non-melanoma skin cancer development.

Regulation of host factor γ-H2AX level and location by enterovirus A71 for viral replication

Numerous viruses manipulate host factors for viral production. We demonstrated that human enterovirus A71 (EVA71), a primary causative agent for hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD), increased the level of the DNA damage response (DDR) marker γ-H2AX. DDR is primarily mediated by the ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM), ATM and Rad3-related (ATR), or DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) pathways. Upregulation of γ-H2AX by EVA71 was dependent on the ATR but not the ATM or DNA-PK pathway. As a nuclear factor, there is no previous evidence of cytoplasmic distribution of γ-H2AX. However, the present findings demonstrated that EVA71 encouraged the localization of γ-H2AX to the cytoplasm. Of note, γ-H2AX formed a complex with structural protein VP3, non-structural protein 3D, and the viral genome. Treatment with an inhibitor or CRISPR/Cas9 technology to decrease or silence the expression of γ-H2AX decreased viral genome replication in host cells; this effect was accompanied by decreased viral protein expression and virions. In animal experiments, caffeine was used to inhibit DDR; the results revealed that caffeine protected neonatal mice from death after infection with EVA71, laying the foundation for new therapeutic applications of caffeine. More importantly, in children with HFMD, γ-H2AX was upregulated in peripheral blood lymphocytes. The consistent in vitro and in vivo data on γ-H2AX from this study suggested that caffeine or other inhibitors of DDR might be novel therapeutic agents for HFMD.

Optogenetics in bacteria - applications and opportunities

Optogenetics holds the promise of controlling biological processes with superb temporal and spatial resolution at minimal perturbation. Although many of the light-reactive proteins used in optogenetic systems are derived from prokaryotes, applications were largely limited to eukaryotes for a long time. In recent years, however, an increasing number of microbiologists use optogenetics as a powerful new tool to study and control key aspects of bacterial biology in a fast and often reversible manner. After a brief discussion of optogenetic principles, this review provides an overview of the rapidly growing number of optogenetic applications in bacteria, with a particular focus on studies venturing beyond transcriptional control. To guide future experiments, we highlight helpful tools, provide considerations for successful application of optogenetics in bacterial systems, and identify particular opportunities and challenges that arise when applying these approaches in bacteria.

Xeroderma Pigmentosum: General Aspects and Management

Xeroderma Pigmentosum (XP) is a rare genetic syndrome with a defective DNA nucleotide excision repair. It is characterized by (i) an extreme sensitivity to ultraviolet (UV)-induced damages in the skin and eyes; (ii) high risk to develop multiple skin tumours; and (iii) neurologic alterations in the most severe form. To date, the management of XP patients consists of (i) early diagnosis; (ii) a long-life protection from ultraviolet radiation, including avoidance of unnecessary UV exposure, wearing UV blocking clothing, and use of topical sunscreens; and (iii) surgical resections of skin cancers. No curative treatment is available at present. Thus, in the last decade, in order to prevent or delay the progression of the clinical signs of XP, numerous strategies have been proposed and tested, in some cases, with adverse effects. The present review provides an overview of the molecular mechanisms featuring the development of XP and highlights both advantages and disadvantages of the clinical approaches developed throughout the years. The intention of the authors is to sensitize scientists to the crucial aspects of the pathology that could be differently targeted. In this context, the exploration of the process underlining the conception of liposomal nanocarriers is reported to focus the attention on the potentialities of liposomal technology to optimize the administration of chemoprotective agents in XP patients.

The psychosocial genomics paradigm of hypnosis and mind-body integrated psychotherapy: Experimental evidence

The psychosocial genomics paradigm first proposed by Ernest Rossi established an epistemological shift in our application of hypnosis. We present original experimental research conducted within this paradigm that highlights the mind-gene relationship and, in particular, the positive health effects associated with hypnosis and mind-body integrated psychotherapy. We document that these approaches can stimulate epigenetic modifications and the expression of genes related to anti-inflammatory processes. These strategies strengthen the immune system and reduce oxidative stress both in normal and in oncological participants.

APT: An Automated Probe Tracker From Gene Expression Data

Out of currently available semi-automatic tools for detecting diagnostic probes relevant to a pathophysiological condition, ArrayMining and GEO2R of NCBI are most popular. The shortcomings of ArrayMining and GEO2R are that both tools list the probes ordering them on the basis of their individual statistical level of significances with only difference of statistical methods used by them. While the latest tool GEO2R outputs either top 250 or all genes following its own ranking mechanism, ArrayMining requires number of probes to be inputted by the user. This study provided a way for automatic selection of probe-set that can be obtained from the voting of outputs resulted from statistical methods, t-Test, Mann-Whitney Test and Empirical Bayes Moderated t-test. It was also intriguing to find that the parameters of these statistical methods can be represented as a mathematical function of group fisher's discriminant ratio of a disease-control expression data-pair. Result of this fully automatic method, APT shows 88.97 percent success in comparison to 80.40 and 87.60 percent successes of ArrayMining and GEO2R respectively to include reported probes. Furthermore, out of 10 fold cross validation and 5 new test cases, APT shows a better performance than both ArrayMining and GEO2R in regards to sensitivity and specificity.

Photopharmacological Applications for Cherenkov Radiation Generated by Clinically Used Radionuclides

Translational photopharmacological applications are limited through irradiation by light showing wavelengths within the bio-optical window. To achieve sufficient tissue penetration, using wavelengths >500 nm is mandatory. Nevertheless, the majority of photopharmacological compounds respond to irradiation with more energetic UV light, which shows only a minor depth of tissue penetration in the µm range. Thus, we became interested in UV light containing Cherenkov radiation (CR) induced as a by-product by clinically employed radionuclides labeling specific tissues. Therefore, CR may be applicable in novel photopharmacological approaches. To provide evidence for the hypothesis, we verified the clinically established radionuclides ⁶⁸Ga and ⁹⁰Y but not ¹⁸F in clinically used activities to be capable of generating CR in aqueous solutions. We then investigated whether the generated CR was able to photoactivate the caged kinase inhibitor cagedAZD5438 as a photoresponsive model system. Herein, 21% uncaging of the model system cagedAZD5438 occurred by incubation with ⁹⁰Y, along with a non-specific compound decomposition for ⁶⁸Ga and partly for ⁹⁰Y. The findings suggest that the combination of a clinically employed radionuclide with an optimized photoresponsive agent could be beneficial for highly focused photopharmacological therapies.

Expression of the Ebola Virus VP24 Protein Compromises the Integrity of the Nuclear Envelope and Induces a Laminopathy-Like Cellular Phenotype

Ebola virus (EBOV) VP24 protein is a nucleocapsid-associated protein that inhibits interferon (IFN) gene expression and counteracts the IFN-mediated antiviral response, preventing nuclear import of signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1). Proteomic studies to identify additional EBOV VP24 partners have pointed to the nuclear membrane component emerin as a potential element of the VP24 cellular interactome. Here, we have further studied this interaction and its impact on cell biology. We demonstrate that VP24 interacts with emerin but also with other components of the inner nuclear membrane, such as lamin A/C and lamin B. We also show that VP24 diminishes the interaction between emerin and lamin A/C and compromises the integrity of the nuclear membrane. This disruption is associated with nuclear morphological abnormalities, activation of a DNA damage response, the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), and the induction of interferon-stimulated gene 15 (ISG15). Interestingly, expression of VP24 also promoted the cytoplasmic translocation and downmodulation of barrier-to-autointegration factor (BAF), a common interactor of lamin A/C and emerin, leading to repression of the BAF-regulated CSF1 gene. Importantly, we found that EBOV infection results in the activation of pathways associated with nuclear envelope damage, consistent with our observations in cells expressing VP24. In summary, here we demonstrate that VP24 acts at the nuclear membrane, causing morphological and functional changes in cells that recapitulate several of the hallmarks of laminopathy diseases.

Effect of therapeutic UVC on corneal DNA: Safety assessment for potential keratitis treatment

PURPOSE

Antimicrobial ultraviolet C (UVC) has proven efficacy in vitro against keratitis isolates and has potential to treat corneal infection if safety can be confirmed.

METHOD

Safety of 265 nm, 1.93 mW/cm² intensity UVC (15-300 s exposures) was investigated in vitro via cyclobutane pyrimidine dimer (CPD) formation in DNA of human cultured corneal epithelial cells; ex vivo, by evaluating UVC transmissibility as a function of porcine corneal thickness; and in vivo, by evaluating CPD induction in the mouse cornea following UVC exposure.

RESULTS

A single exposure of 15 s UVC did not induce significant CPD formation (0.92 ± 1.45%) in vitro relative to untreated control (p = 0.93) whereas 300 s exposure caused extensive CPD formation (86.8 ± 13.73%; p < 0.0001). Cumulative exposure to 15 s UVC daily for 3 days induced more CPD (14.6 ± 8.2%) than a single equivalent 45 s exposure (8.3 ± 4.0%) (p < 0.001) but levels returned to baseline within 72 h (p = 0.29), indicating highly efficient DNA repair. Ex vivo, UVC transmission decreased sharply with increasing corneal thickness, confirming UVC effects are limited to the superficial corneal layers. In vivo evaluations demonstrated no detectable CPD after three consecutive daily 15 s UVC exposures, whereas a single 300 s exposure induced extensive CPD formation in superficial corneal epithelium.

CONCLUSION

Up to three daily doses of 15 s UVC, in vivo, appear safe with respect to CPD formation. Ongoing research exploring UVC as a possible treatment for microbial keratitis is warranted.

The Anti-photoaging Effects of Pre- and Post-treatment of Platelet-rich Plasma on UVB-damaged HaCaT Keratinocytes

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has seen wide clinical use owing to its regenerative and repair abilities.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the anti-photoaging effects of pre- and post-treatment of PRP on UVB-damaged HaCaT cells.

METHODS

HaCaT cells were irradiated with 80 mJ/cm² UVB, before or after PRP treatment (1000 × 10⁷ /L), and following measurements were taken: survival rate of UVB-irradiated HaCaT cells, malondialdehyde (MDA) content and activities of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT). Western blot was used to determine the effect of different PRP intervention on the expression of PI3K, AKT, ERK, MMP-1, MMP-9, TIMP-1 and γ-H2AX in the UVB-irradiated HaCaT cells.

RESULTS

pre- and post-PRP treatment reduced MDA content and increased the activities of GSH-Px, SOD and CAT in photoaged HaCaT cells. These changes resulted in reduced cytotoxic effects. Besides, different PRP intervention promoted cell proliferation via PI3K/AKT pathway. Furthermore, PRP application suppressed the expression of γ-H2AX. Also, PRP intervention alleviated photoaging effects by upregulating the expression level of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1 (TIMP-1) while downregulating matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expression level in photoaged HaCaT cells.

CONCLUSION

pre- and post-PRP treatment play anti-photoaging role through strengthening cellular oxidative defense capacity, mitigating MMP expression, alleviating DNA damages and promoting proliferation of UVB-irradiated HaCaT cells.

More than Meets the ISG15: Emerging Roles in the DNA Damage Response and Beyond

Maintenance of genome stability is a crucial priority for any organism. To meet this priority, robust signalling networks exist to facilitate error-free DNA replication and repair. These signalling cascades are subject to various regulatory post-translational modifications that range from simple additions of chemical moieties to the conjugation of ubiquitin-like proteins (UBLs). Interferon Stimulated Gene 15 (ISG15) is one such UBL. While classically thought of as a component of antiviral immunity, ISG15 has recently emerged as a regulator of genome stability, with key roles in the DNA damage response (DDR) to modulate p53 signalling and error-free DNA replication. Additional proteomic analyses and cancer-focused studies hint at wider-reaching, uncharacterised functions for ISG15 in genome stability. We review these recent discoveries and highlight future perspectives to increase our understanding of this multifaceted UBL in health and disease.

Restricted suitability of BODIPY for caging in biological applications based on singlet oxygen generation

Recent studies report the boron-dipyrromethene (BODIPY) moiety to be interesting for caging applications in photopharmacology based on its response to irradiation with wavelengths in the biooptical window. Thus, in a model study, we investigated the meso-methyl-BODIPY caged CDK2 inhibitor AZD5438 and aimed to assess the usability of BODIPY as a photoremovable protecting group in photoresponsive kinase inhibitor applications. Photochemical analysis and biological characterisation in vitro revealed significant limitations of the BODIPY-caged inhibitor concept regarding solubility and uncaging in aqueous solution. Notably, we provide evidence for BODIPY-caged compounds generating singlet oxygen/radicals upon irradiation, followed by photodegradation of the caged compound system. Consequently, instead of caging, a non-specific induction of necrosis in cells suggests the potential usage of BODIPY derivatives for photodynamic approaches.

Focus on UV-Induced DNA Damage and Repair-Disease Relevance and Protective Strategies

The protective ozone layer is continually depleting due to the release of deteriorating environmental pollutants. The diminished ozone layer contributes to excessive exposure of cells to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This leads to various cellular responses utilized to restore the homeostasis of exposed cells. DNA is the primary chromophore of the cells that absorbs sunlight energy. Exposure of genomic DNA to UV light leads to the formation of multitude of types of damage (depending on wavelength and exposure time) that are removed by effectively working repair pathways. The aim of this review is to summarize current knowledge considering cellular response to UV radiation with special focus on DNA damage and repair and to give a comprehensive insight for new researchers in this field. We also highlight most important future prospects considering application of the progressing knowledge of UV response for the clinical control of diverse pathologies.

DNA damage invokes mitophagy through a pathway involving Spata18

Mitochondria are vital for cellular energy supply and intracellular signaling after stress. Here, we aimed to investigate how mitochondria respond to acute DNA damage with respect to mitophagy, which is an important mitochondrial quality control process. Our results show that mitophagy increases after DNA damage in primary fibroblasts, murine neurons and Caenorhabditis elegans neurons. Our results indicate that modulation of mitophagy after DNA damage is independent of the type of DNA damage stimuli used and that the protein Spata18 is an important player in this process. Knockdown of Spata18 suppresses mitophagy, disturbs mitochondrial Ca2+ homeostasis, affects ATP production, and attenuates DNA repair. Importantly, mitophagy after DNA damage is a vital cellular response to maintain mitochondrial functions and DNA repair.

Ubiquitin-like proteins in the DNA damage response: the next generation

DNA suffers constant insult from a variety of endogenous and exogenous sources. To deal with the arising lesions, cells have evolved complex and coordinated pathways, collectively termed the DNA damage response (DDR). Importantly, an improper DDR can lead to genome instability, premature ageing and human diseases, including cancer as well as neurodegenerative disorders. As a crucial process for cell survival, regulation of the DDR is multi-layered and includes several post-translational modifications. Since the discovery of ubiquitin in 1975 and the ubiquitylation cascade in the early 1980s, a number of ubiquitin-like proteins (UBLs) have been identified as post-translational modifiers. However, while the importance of ubiquitin and the UBLs SUMO and NEDD8 in DNA damage repair and signalling is well established, the roles of the remaining UBLs in the DDR are only starting to be uncovered. Herein, we revise the current status of the UBLs ISG15, UBL5, FAT10 and UFM1 as emerging co-regulators of DDR processes. In fact, it is becoming clear that these post-translational modifiers play important pleiotropic roles in DNA damage and/or associated stress-related cellular responses. Expanding our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying these emerging UBL functions will be fundamental for enhancing our knowledge of the DDR and potentially provide new therapeutic strategies for various human diseases including cancer.

The Potential Regulatory Roles of lncRNAs in DNA Damage Response in Human Lymphocytes Exposed to UVC Irradiation

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a class of noncoding RNAs that modulate gene expression, thereby participating in the regulation of various cellular processes. However, it is not clear about the expression and underlying mechanism of lncRNAs in irradiation-induced DNA damage response. In the present study, we performed integrative analysis of lncRNA-mRNA expression profile in human lymphocytes irradiated with ultraviolet-C (UVC). The results showed that exposure to UVC irradiation dose-dependently increased the fluorescence intensity of γ-H₂AX and induced cell death. Microarray analysis revealed that up-regulated lncRNAs were more common than down-regulated lncRNAs with the increase of radiation dose in UVC-radiated cells. Stem analysis demonstrated the relationship between lncRNA expression level and radiation dose. qPCR results confirmed that LOC338799 and its coexpressed genes such as LCE1F and ISCU showed the increase in expression levels with the increase of UVC radiation dose. We utilized Cytoscape to screen out 5 lncRNAs and 13 coexpressed genes linking to p53, which might participate in the regulation of DNA damage, cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, and cell death. These findings suggest that lncRNAs might play a role in UVC-induced DNA damage response through regulating expression of genes in p53 signaling pathway.

Involvement of lncRNA-HOTTIP in the Repair of Ultraviolet Light-Induced DNA Damage in Spermatogenic Cells

Ultraviolet light (UV)-induced cellular response has been studied by numerous investigators for many years. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are emerging as new regulators of diverse cellular process; however, little is known about the role of lncRNAs in the cellular response to UV treatment. Here, we demonstrate that levels of lncRNA-HOTTIP significantly increases after UV stimulation and regulates the UV-mediated cellular response to UV through the coordinate activation of its neighboring gene Hoxa13 in GC-1 cells (spermatogonia germ cell line). UV-induced, G2/M-phase arrest and early apoptosis can be regulated by lncRNA-HOTTIP and Hoxa13. Furthermore, lncRNA-HOTTIP can up-regulate γ-H2AX and p53 expression via Hoxa13 in UV-irradiated GC-1 cells. In addition, p53 has the ability to regulate the expression of both lncRNA-HOTTIP and Hoxa13 in vitro and in vivo. Our results provide new data regarding the role lncRNAs play in the UV response in spermatogenic cells.

Diminished stimulator of interferon genes production with cigarette smoke-exposure contributes to weakened anti-adenovirus vectors response and destruction of lung in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease model

Cigarette smoke (CS) is the primary risk factor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and dampens antiviral response, which increases viral infections and leads to COPD acute exacerbation (AECOPD). Adenovirus, a nonenveloped DNA virus, is linked with AECOPD, whose DNAs trigger innate immune response via interacting with pattern recognition receptors (PRRs). Stimulator of interferon genes (STING), as a cytosolic DNA sensor, participates in adenovirus-induced interferon β (IFNβ)-dependent antiviral response. STING is involved in various pulmonary diseases, but role of STING in pathogenesis of AECOPD is not well documented. In the present study, we explored relationship between STING and AECOPD induced by recombinant adenovirus vectors (rAdVs) and CS in wild type (WT) and STING-/- mice; and also characterized the inhibition of STING- IFNβ pathway in pulmonary epithelium exposed to cigarette smoke extract (CSE). We found that CS or CSE exposure alone dramatically inhibited STING expression, but not significantly effected IFNβ production. Moreover, CS or CSE-exposed significantly suppressed activation of STING-IFNβ pathway induced by rAdVs and suppressed clearance of rAdVs DNA. Inflammation, fibrosis and emphysema of lung tissues were exaggerated when treated with CS plus rAdVs, which further deteriorate in absences of STING. In A549 cells with knockdown of STING, we also observed enhancing apoptosis related to emphysema, especially CSE and adenovirus vectors in combination. Therefore, STING may play a protective role in preventing the progress of COPD.

CSNAP, the smallest CSN subunit, modulates proteostasis through cullin-RING ubiquitin ligases

The cullin-RING ubiquitin E3 ligase (CRL) family consists of ~250 complexes that catalyze ubiquitylation of proteins to achieve cellular regulation. All CRLs are inhibited by the COP9 signalosome complex (CSN) through both enzymatic (deneddylation) and nonenzymatic (steric) mechanisms. The relative contribution of these two mechanisms is unclear. Here, we decouple the mechanisms using CSNAP, the recently discovered ninth subunit of the CSN. We find that CSNAP reduces the affinity of CSN toward CRL complexes. Removing CSNAP does not affect deneddylation, but leads to global effects on the CRL, causing altered reproductive capacity, suppressed DNA damage response, and delayed cell cycle progression. Thus, although CSNAP is only 2% of the CSN mass, it plays a critical role in the steric regulation of CRLs by the CSN.

The Effects of Ultraviolet Light-Emitting Diodes with Different Wavelengths on Periodontopathic Bacteria In Vitro

Objective: The aim of this study was to examine effects of recently developed ultraviolet light-emitting diodes (UV LEDs) wavelengths on in vitro growth and gene expression of cultural periodontopathic bacteria, and on viability of experimental gingival fibroblasts. Materials and methods: Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, and Streptococcus oralis were irradiated by UV LEDs (265, 285, 310, 365, and 448 nm) at 600 mJ/cm² and grown anaerobically in vitro. The colony forming units were counted after 1 week. Cell morphology was observed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was performed to investigate gene expression changes by 310 nm irradiation. Viability of the irradiated human gingival fibroblasts was evaluated using WST-8 assay. Results: Both 265 and 285 nm resulted in the complete death of bacteria and fibroblasts, whereas 310 nm caused partial killing and suppression of bacterial growth and much less damage to the fibroblasts in vitro. Both 365 and 448 nm resulted in no significant change. SEM showed that P. gingivalis cells gradually degraded from day 2 or 3 and were severely destructed on day 5 for 265, 285, and 310 nm. The 310 nm irradiation transiently suppressed the transcripts of SOS response- and cell division-relative genes. Conclusions: Both 265 and 285 nm may induce powerful bactericidal effects and severe fibroblast phototoxicity, and 310 nm may induce partial killing or growth suppression of bacterial cells with much less fibroblast phototoxicity. UV lights may have potential for bacterial suppression, with situations dependent on wavelength, in periodontal and peri-implant therapy.

Ultraviolet-C (UVC) ray acts as a synchronizing cue for circadian rhythm control in murine fibroblast

Ultraviolet-C (UVC) electromagnetic radiation is the most damaging type of the UV radiation and causes many cellular and physiological responses. UVC has been using for sterilization and disinfection, and the risk of exposure to the UVC is increasing. Here, we determined the effect of the UVC on the cellular circadian clock system. UVC irradiation synchronized the biological clock system and induced time-dependent expression of clock genes including Clock, Cry1, and Per1. The rhythmic expression of clock genes is also followed by time-dependent mRNA degradation or non-canonical translation initiation of clock genes. Furthermore, we show a translocation of PERIOD1 (PER1) protein after UVC irradiation, which mediates the rhythmic feedback loop of clock genes. Our results suggest that UVC can synchronize the circadian clock system, and induces rhythmic expression of clock genes via time-dependent transcription, post-transcription, and post-translational modification.

RNA-Seq analysis revealed genes associated with UV-induced cell necrosis through MAPK/TNF-α pathways in human dermal fibroblast cells as an inducer of premature photoaging

Exposing the skin to solar UV radiation induces cascades of signaling pathways and biological alterations such as redox imbalance, suppression of antioxidant genes and programmed cell death. Therefore, the aim of this study was to use RNA-Seq to unravel the effects of UV radiation on Normal Human Adult Fibroblast cells (NHDF). Cells were exposed to UV (20 mJ/cm2 for 3 mins) and incubated for 24 h. Total mRNA from the cells generated libraries of 72,080,648 and 40,750,939 raw reads from UV-treated and control cells respectively. Of the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) produced 2,007 were up-regulated and 2,791 were down-regulated (fold change ≥2, p < 0.05). The expression of 4 genes was validated with RT-qPCR. Chemokine signaling pathways in cancer were significantly activated and antioxidant genes were down-regulated. This study applied Next Generation Sequencing technology to reveal the genes and pathways involved in UV-induced human dermal fibroblast cells necrosis.

Fluorescent Retinoic Acid Analogues as Probes for Biochemical and Intracellular Characterization of Retinoid Signaling Pathways

Retinoids, such as all- trans-retinoic acid (ATRA), are endogenous signaling molecules derived from vitamin A that influence a variety of cellular processes through mediation of transcription events in the cell nucleus. Because of these wide-ranging and powerful biological activities, retinoids have emerged as therapeutic candidates of enormous potential. However, their use has been limited, to date, due to a lack of understanding of the complex and intricate signaling pathways that they control. We have designed and synthesized a family of synthetic retinoids that exhibit strong, intrinsic, solvatochromatic fluorescence as multifunctional tools to interrogate these important biological activities. We utilized the unique photophysical characteristics of these fluorescent retinoids to develop a novel in vitro fluorometric binding assay to characterize and quantify their binding to their cellular targets, including cellular retinoid binding protein II (CRABPII). The dihydroquinoline retinoid, DC360, exhibited particularly strong binding ( K_d = 34.0 ± 2.5 nM), and we further used X-ray crystallography to determine the structure of the DC360-CRABPII complex to 1.8 Å, which showed that DC360 occupies the known hydrophobic retinoid binding pocket. Finally, we used confocal fluorescence microscopy to image the cellular behavior of the compounds in cultured human epithelial cells, highlighting a fascinating nuclear localization, and used RNA sequencing to confirm that the compounds regulate cellular processes similar to those of ATRA. We anticipate that the unique properties of these fluorescent retinoids can now be used to cast new light on the vital and highly complex retinoid signaling pathway.

Genomic insult oriented mitochondrial instability and proliferative hindrance in the bone marrow of aplastic mice including stem/progenitor population

Aplastic anemia is the bone marrow failure condition characterized by the development of hypocellularity in both marrow and peripheral blood compartments. Anti-tumor chemotherapeutic agents often exert secondary effect on hematopoietic system leading to aplastic anemia by marrow failure. The precise mechanisms behind the marrow ablative effects of the drugs remain yet to be established. The present study holds a mechanistic approach to unveil the mystery. Aplastic anemia was generated in mice with the administration of busulfan and cyclophosphamide followed by the characterization of the disease with peripheral blood hemogram, histopathological and cytochemical examinations of bone marrow. To gain deep knowledge about the molecular mechanisms of the hematopoietic disruption, cytotoxicity assay, DNA damage measurement, apoptosis study, replicative senescence analysis, redox balance study, mitochondrial membrane potential change assessment, flowcytometric expressional analysis of p21, p53, ATM, Chk-2, Necdin, Gfi-1, c-myc, KU-80 and Sod-2 were done with marrow hematopoietic stem/ progenitor cells (HSPCs). Severe blood pancytopenia and marrow hypocellularity was found in aplastic mice. Proliferative hindrance and apoptosis of marrow cells were identified as the cause behind the hematopoietic catastrophe. The genotoxic effects of the drugs triggered chromatin damage and induced replicative senescence in aplastic HSPCs by upregulating p21 in a p53 independent manner. Moreover, accumulation of genomic insults also caused apoptotic elimination of marrow cells due to disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential by generating redox imbalance. The study established the underlying mechanisms behind hematopoietic disruption during drug induced marrow aplasia. Outcome of the study may be helpful in successful designing of therapeutic strategies for the disease concerned.

The transcription factors TFE3 and TFEB amplify p53 dependent transcriptional programs in response to DNA damage

The transcription factors TFE3 and TFEB cooperate to regulate autophagy induction and lysosome biogenesis in response to starvation. Here we demonstrate that DNA damage activates TFE3 and TFEB in a p53 and mTORC1 dependent manner. RNA-Seq analysis of TFEB/TFE3 double-knockout cells exposed to etoposide reveals a profound dysregulation of the DNA damage response, including upstream regulators and downstream p53 targets. TFE3 and TFEB contribute to sustain p53-dependent response by stabilizing p53 protein levels. In TFEB/TFE3 DKOs, p53 half-life is significantly decreased due to elevated Mdm2 levels. Transcriptional profiles of genes involved in lysosome membrane permeabilization and cell death pathways are dysregulated in TFEB/TFE3-depleted cells. Consequently, prolonged DNA damage results in impaired LMP and apoptosis induction. Finally, expression of multiple genes implicated in cell cycle control is altered in TFEB/TFE3 DKOs, revealing a previously unrecognized role of TFEB and TFE3 in the regulation of cell cycle checkpoints in response to stress.

Cytotoxicity of ultraviolet-C radiation on a heterogeneous population of human glioblastoma multiforme cells: Meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Current treatment strategies for glioblastoma multiforme are limited due to early recurrence and heterogeneity of the cell population that causes a varied response to treatment. Ultraviolet-C (UVC) radiation may be a potential adjuvant treatment that could theoretically be delivered locally by implantable micro-electromechanical systems that sense and kill early recurrence and/or minimally residual cancer. in vitro irradiation experiments are limited because they commonly use a single cell line. Therefore other methods are required to investigate cytotoxicity across a heterogeneous population of GBM.

METHODS

A meta-analysis was conducted to assess the cytotoxic effects of UVC radiation on human GBM cell lines, with or without genetic modification, in monolayer to simulate a heterogeneous model. 16 publications were included using 14 different cell lines and 19 gene vectors. Effect sizes were calculated for cell survival, viability, apoptosis and proliferation. Univariate meta-regression was used to investigate the effects of radiant exposure (J/m²) and timing on cytotoxicity.

RESULTS

UVC resulted in a 70.9% (CI: 63.6%-78.2%) reduction in survival, 16.6% (CI: 10.8%-22.4%) increase in apoptosis, 32.0% (CI: 9.95%-54.2%) reduction in viability, and 413.8% (CI: 95.7%-731.9%) reduction in proliferation of GBM cell lines compared to controls. Radiant exposure was significantly associated with survival (R² = 0.486, p < 0.0001) but not with apoptosis or viability.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides more data on the therapeutic translational potential of UVC to a more clinically-realistic context. Overall, UVC is cytotoxic to GBM cell lines in aggregate and may be clinically useful when combined with genetic modification or other adjuvant treatments.

Unexpected dose response of HaCaT to UVB irradiation

Application of high-dosage UVB irradiation in phototherapeutic dermatological treatments present health concerns attributed to UV-exposure. In assessing UV-induced photobiological damage, we investigated dose-dependent effects of UVB irradiation on human keratinocyte cells (HaCaT). Our study implemented survival and apoptosis assays and revealed an unexpected dose response wherein higher UVB-dosage induced higher viability. Established inhibitors, such as AKT- (LY294002), PKC- (Gö6976, and Rottlerin), ERK- (PD98059), P38 MAPK- (SB203580), and JNK- (SP600125), were assessed to investigate UV-induced apoptotic pathways. Despite unobvious contributions of known signaling pathways in dose-response mediation, microarray analysis identified transcriptional expression of UVB-response genes related to the respiratory-chain. Observed correlation of ROS-production with UVB irradiation potentiated ROS as the underlying mechanism for observed dose responses. Inability of established pathways to explain such responses suggests the complex nature underlying UVB-phototherapy response.

Effects of Ultraviolet Radiation on Glioma: Systematic Review

Glioblastoma multiforme is the most aggressive primary brain tumor. Treatment is largely palliative, with current strategies unable to prevent inevitable tumor recurrence. Implantable micro-electromechanical systems are becoming more feasible for the management of several human diseases. These systems may have a role in detecting tumor recurrence and delivering localized therapies. One potential therapeutic tool is ultraviolet (UV) light. This systematic review assesses the effects of UV light on glioma cells. A total of 47 publications are included. The large majority were in vitro experiments conducted on human glioblastoma cell lines in monolayer. In these cells, UV light was shown to induce apoptosis and the expression of genes or activation of proteins that modulate cell death, repair, and proliferation. The nature and magnitude of cellular response varied by UV wavelength, dose, cell line, and time after irradiation. UVC (wavelength 100-280 nm) was most effective at inducing apoptosis, and this effect was dose dependent. The included studies had varied methodologies, complicating reconciliation of results. Further work will be required to determine the best regime of UV irradiation for therapeutic use. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 4063-4071, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

MCPIP1 contributes to the inflammatory response of UVB-treated keratinocytes

BACKGROUND

Monocyte chemoattractant protein-1-induced protein-1 (MCPIP1), also known as regnase-1, negatively regulates many cellular processes including the cellular response to inflammatory agents, differentiation, viability, and proliferation. It possesses a PilT N-terminus (PIN) domain that is directly involved in regulating the stability of transcripts and miRNAs by recognizing stem loop structures and degrading them by endonucleolytic cleavage.

OBJECTIVE

We investigated the role of MCPIP1 in the response of human primary keratinocytes to UVB stress.

METHODS

Keratinocytes were treated with UVB, siRNA against MCPIP1, pharmacological inhibitors of signaling pathways, or subjected to control treatments. The mRNA and protein levels of MCPIP1 and MCPIP1-dependent changes gene expression were analyzed by quantitative (Q)-RT-PCRs and Western blots. Secretion of TNFα and IL-8 was determined by ELISA.

RESULTS

UVB treatment of keratinocytes induced upregulation of MCPIP1 at the mRNA level after 4-8h and at the protein level after 8-16h. MCPIP1 abundance depended on NF-κB activity. Using an siRNA strategy, we found that diminished MCPIP1 resulted in an up-regulation of transcripts coding for IL-8, TNFα, COX-2, and BCL-2, as well as an enhanced release of IL-8. Moreover, decreased phosphorylation of NF-κB and p38 signaling pathways were observed in addition to a slight up-regulation of ERK1/2 directly after UVB treatment. Twenty-four hours later, decreased phosphorylation was observed only for NF-κB and p38. Furthermore, in MCPIP1-suppressed cells, the levels of pro-apoptotic Puma, the phosphorylated form of p53 and the abundance of its target p21 as well as the activity of caspase 3 decreased, while the level of cyclin D1 increased.

CONCLUSION

MCPIP1 contributes to the UVB response of keratinocytes by altering metabolic and apoptotic processes and the release of inflammatory mediators.

Interferon-Stimulated Gene 15 in the Control of Cellular Responses to Genotoxic Stress

Error-free replication and repair of DNA are pivotal to organisms for faithful transmission of their genetic information. Cells orchestrate complex signaling networks that sense and resolve DNA damage. Post-translational protein modifications by ubiquitin and ubiquitin-like proteins, including SUMO and NEDD8, are critically involved in DNA damage response (DDR) and DNA damage tolerance (DDT). The expression of interferon-stimulated gene 15 (ISG15), the first identified ubiquitin-like protein, has recently been shown to be induced under various DNA damage conditions, such as exposure to UV, camptothecin, and doxorubicin. Here we overview the recent findings on the role of ISG15 and its conjugation to target proteins (e.g., p53, ΔNp63α, and PCNA) in the control of cellular responses to genotoxic stress, such as the inhibition of cell growth and tumorigenesis.

Plasmonic nanocone arrays for rapid and detailed cell lysate surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy analysis

A plasmonic nanocone SERS substrate with a uniform enhancement factor is developed and applied for cell lysate studies.