Celecoxib plays a multiple role to peripheral blood lymphocytes and allografts in acute rejection in rats after cardiac transplantation:

The effects of apelin on IGF1/FSH-induced steroidogenesis, proliferation, Bax expression, and total antioxidant capacity in granulosa cells of buffalo ovarian follicles

Apelin (APLN) was believed to be an adipokine secreted from adipose tissue. However, studies demonstrate that it is a pleiotropic peptide and has several effects on the female reproductive system. In this study, We examined the effects of different doses of IGF1 and FSH in the presence of APLN-13 on the production of progesterone in buffalo ovary granulosa cells. Furthermore, different doses of APLN isoforms (APLN-13 and APLN-17) were tested on proliferation, Bax protein expression, and antioxidant capacity in the same cells. Granulosa cells of buffalo ovaries were cultured in the presence of different doses of IGF1 and FSH with or without APLN-13 (10-9 M) to evaluate its effect on the secretion of progesterone tested by ELISA assay. The WST-1 method was used to survey the effect of APLN on granulosa cell proliferation and cytotoxicity. In addition, the antioxidant capacity of the cells in the presence of APLN was assessed using the FRAP method. mRNA and Bax protein levels were measured in granulosa cells treated with APLN using real-time PCR and western blot techniques. APLN-13 (10-9) stimulated the effect of IGF1 on the production of progesterone, and its levels were affected by APLN-13 dose-dependently. However, it did not significantly stimulate the effect of FSH on the secretion of progesterone. APLN-13 (all doses) and APLN-17 (10-8 and 10-9 M) improved the proliferation of granulosa cells. Moreover, preincubation of the cells for an hour by APLN receptor antagonist (ML221, 10 µM) did not significantly affect the proliferation of cells induced by APLN. Neither APLN-13 nor APLN-17 were not cytotoxic for the cells compared to the control treatment. APLN-13 at the doses of 10-6 and 10-8 M substantially up and down-regulated Bax protein expression; however, such effects were not observed when the cells were preincubated with ML221. In addition, APLN-17 did not influence the expression amount of Bax. Furthermore, both APLN-13 and -17 improved the total antioxidant capacity of the ovarian granulosa cells, but such effects were not seen when the cells were preincubated with ML221. According to these results, APLN enhanced the steroidogenesis induced by IGF1 but did not affect the steroidogenesis induced by FSH. APLN also enhanced the cell proliferation and antioxidant capacity of buffalo ovaries follicular granulosa cells; however, its effect on Bax expression was different.

Breast cancer plasticity is restricted by a LATS1-NCOR1 repressive axis

Breast cancer, the most frequent cancer in women, is generally classified into several distinct histological and molecular subtypes. However, single-cell technologies have revealed remarkable cellular and functional heterogeneity across subtypes and even within individual breast tumors. Much of this heterogeneity is attributable to dynamic alterations in the epigenetic landscape of the cancer cells, which promote phenotypic plasticity. Such plasticity, including transition from luminal to basal-like cell identity, can promote disease aggressiveness. We now report that the tumor suppressor LATS1, whose expression is often downregulated in human breast cancer, helps maintain luminal breast cancer cell identity by reducing the chromatin accessibility of genes that are characteristic of a "basal-like" state, preventing their spurious activation. This is achieved via interaction of LATS1 with the NCOR1 nuclear corepressor and recruitment of HDAC1, driving histone H3K27 deacetylation near NCOR1-repressed "basal-like" genes. Consequently, decreased expression of LATS1 elevates the expression of such genes and facilitates slippage towards a more basal-like phenotypic identity. We propose that by enforcing rigorous silencing of repressed genes, the LATS1-NCOR1 axis maintains luminal cell identity and restricts breast cancer progression.

Current and emerging treatment options for premature ejaculation

Premature ejaculation (PE) is a prevalent male sexual dysfunction. Current standard treatment regimens include behavioural therapies, topical anaesthetics, dapoxetine and other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Most of the pharmacotherapeutic options target neurotransmitters (such as serotonin and oxytocin) that have a role in the ejaculation mechanism. However, these treatments are mildly effective and only provide a temporary delay in the ejaculation latency time, and PE recurs when the treatment is stopped. Thus, a treatment for PE is urgently needed and research is ongoing to find the ideal PE therapy. The efficacy and safety of topical anaesthetics and SSRIs in delaying ejaculation have been confirmed in many well-designed controlled trials. Both preclinical and clinical studies on new-generation SSRIs are ongoing. Moreover, promising results came from clinical trials in which the efficacy of on-demand PE therapies targeting neurotransmitters other than serotonin, such as α1-adrenoceptor antagonists and oxytocin antagonists, was assessed. Surgical intervention and neuromodulation have been proposed as potential treatment options for PE; however, current PE guidelines do not recommend these treatments owing to safety concerns.

Sympathetic Ophthalmia: Where Do We Currently Stand on Treatment Strategies?

Sympathetic ophthalmia is a rare bilateral diffuse granulomatous panuveitis that usually results from surgical or penetrating trauma to one eye. The symptoms range from impaired near vision to pain, photophobia, and loss of visual acuity. Anterior segment manifestations include bilateral acute uveitis with mutton-fat keratic precipitates and posterior segment findings include vitritis, multifocal neurosensory retinal detachment, choroiditis, optic nerve edema, and Dalen-Fuchs nodules. The diagnosis is clinical. Ancillary investigations include fundus fluorescein angiography, indocyanine green angiography, optical coherence tomography (OCT), ultrasound B scan, and autofluorescence imaging. The management options include corticosteroids (topical and systemic) as the first line along with immunomodulatory therapy started at the presentation of the disease. Recent advances include imaging with OCT-angiography, enhanced depth imaging-OCT (EDI-OCT, choroidal vascular index/CVI), targeting IL-23/IL-17 pathway, and use of biologics for the management of this rare entity. Recent advances in early diagnosis and prompt treatment has led to improved final visual outcomes in both the sympathizing and exciting eye. This review is aimed at giving a comprehensive overview of sympathetic ophthalmia along with a special emphasis on current treatment strategies and recent advances.

Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Primary or Secondary Enucleation or Evisceration After Ocular Trauma

Purpose

To investigate the frequency of primary versus secondary eye removal, frequency of enucleation versus evisceration, and characteristics and outcomes of patients undergoing these procedures after presenting with severe ocular trauma.

Patients and Methods

Retrospective chart review of patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) with severe eye trauma necessitating enucleation or evisceration between 2010 and 2018.

Results

There were 92 eyes from 90 patients included in our study. Twenty-seven percent of eyes underwent primary removal (n=25, 14 enucleation, 11 evisceration), while 73% of eyes underwent secondary removal (n=67, 50 enucleation, 17 evisceration). The mean patient age was 45.2 years (range 4.2–92.6); primary enucleation/evisceration patients were older on average than secondary eye removal patients [53.8 years (range 15.9–91.2) versus 42.2 years (range 4.2–91.6 years), p=0.04]. A median of 34 days passed between ED presentation and secondary enucleation/evisceration. Before undergoing secondary enucleation/evisceration, patients underwent a median of one ocular procedure (range 0–14) for various complications of trauma including orbital infection, choroidal or retinal tear or detachment, and wound dehiscence. Open globe injury repairs comprised 43 of the 92 total procedures (47%) performed prior to secondary enucleation/evisceration. Secondary enucleations/eviscerations required a median of seven clinic visits compared to two clinic visits required after primary surgeries (p<0.01). 10.7% of all patients (n=10) had at least one implant-related complication following enucleation/evisceration, with all but one of these patients being in the secondary enucleation/evisceration group.

Conclusion

Primary enucleation or evisceration was performed in 27% of all eye removals, and enucleation was performed in 69.6% of all eye removals. Future research is warranted to determine if primary eye removal may be appropriate and when to consider enucleation versus evisceration.

Glucose transporters in brain in health and disease

Energy demand of neurons in brain that is covered by glucose supply from the blood is ensured by glucose transporters in capillaries and brain cells. In brain, the facilitative diffusion glucose transporters GLUT1-6 and GLUT8, and the Na⁺-d-glucose cotransporters SGLT1 are expressed. The glucose transporters mediate uptake of d-glucose across the blood-brain barrier and delivery of d-glucose to astrocytes and neurons. They are critically involved in regulatory adaptations to varying energy demands in response to differing neuronal activities and glucose supply. In this review, a comprehensive overview about verified and proposed roles of cerebral glucose transporters during health and diseases is presented. Our current knowledge is mainly based on experiments performed in rodents. First, the functional properties of human glucose transporters expressed in brain and their cerebral locations are described. Thereafter, proposed physiological functions of GLUT1, GLUT2, GLUT3, GLUT4, and SGLT1 for energy supply to neurons, glucose sensing, central regulation of glucohomeostasis, and feeding behavior are compiled, and their roles in learning and memory formation are discussed. In addition, diseases are described in which functional changes of cerebral glucose transporters are relevant. These are GLUT1 deficiency syndrome (GLUT1-SD), diabetes mellitus, Alzheimer’s disease (AD), stroke, and traumatic brain injury (TBI). GLUT1-SD is caused by defect mutations in GLUT1. Diabetes and AD are associated with changed expression of glucose transporters in brain, and transporter-related energy deficiency of neurons may contribute to pathogenesis of AD. Stroke and TBI are associated with changes of glucose transporter expression that influence clinical outcome.

Comparative Effects of Curcumin versus Nano-Curcumin on Insulin Resistance, Serum Levels of Apelin and Lipid Profile in Type 2 Diabetic Rats

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is characterized by insulin resistance and abnormalities in insulin production. Apelin is associated with insulin resistance. According to the anti-diabetic properties of curcumin, the purpose of this study was to compare the effects of curcumin and nano-curcumin intake on insulin resistance and serum levels of fasting blood sugar (FBS), Apelin, and lipid profile (cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL, HDL and VLDL) in T2DM rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-eight male Wistar rats were divided into six groups: Control, diabetic, diabetic treated with two doses of curcumin (100 and 200 mg/kg) and diabetic treated with two doses of nano-curcumin (100 and 200 mg/kg). Induction of T2DM was performed by intraperitoneal injection of Nicotinamide (110 mg/kg) and Streptozotocin (45 mg/kg) in the fasting state. Rats received different doses of nano-curcumin and curcumin by gavage (daily) for 28 days. At the end of the intervention period, insulin resistance and serum levels of FBS, apelin and lipid profiles were measured.

RESULTS

Insulin resistance and serum levels of FBS, Apelin, cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, and VLDL were significantly decreased in diabetic rats treated with curcumin and nano-curcumin (p<0.05) so that nano-curcumin in reducing lipid profile is more effective than curcumin (P<0.05). Serum level of HDL in nano-curcumin groups was significantly higher than diabetic and curcumin groups (p<0.05). Also, with increasing insulin resistance, serum level of apelin increased (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

The therapeutic effects of curcumin and nano-curcumin were effective in decreasing insulin resistance, serum levels of FBS, apelin and lipid profile. The dose of 100 mg/kg nano-curcumin was more effective in reducing lipid profile.

Can ELABELA be a novel target in the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia?

BACKGROUND

It has been shown that bcl2, bcl-XL and mcl-1 protein levels are high in chronic lymphocytic leukemia cells, and resultantly, apoptosis does not occur chronic lymphocytic leukemia cells. Apelin and apela (ELABELA/ELA/Toddler) are two peptide ligands for a class A G-protein coupled receptor called apelin receptor. Studies have shown that ELA inhibits apoptosis by inhibiting apoptotic proteins and activating anti-apoptotic proteins. Proteins and genes involved in apoptosis are valuable for targeted cancer therapy. We hypothesized that serum levels may be increased in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia based on the antiapoptotic effect of ELA. We compared serum ELABELA levels of healthy volunteers and patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia. We aimed to draw attention to a new molecule worthy of research in targeted cancer treatment.

METHODS

Forty two untreated CLL patients and 41 healthy volunteers were included in the study. Serum ELA levels were measured by using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits (Dhanghai Sunred Biological Technology co. Ltd), automated ELISA reader (Thermo Scientific, FİNLAND) and computer program (Scanlt for Multiscan F.C.2.5.1) in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Statistical analysis was done by Statistical Package for Social Sciences for Windows 20 (IBM SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL) ve MedCalc programs. ELA and variables related to CLL were correlated with Spearman correlation anlysis test. ROC analysis and Youden index method were used to determine a cut off point for ELA. All p-values were 2-sided with statistical significance at 0.05 alpha levels.

RESULTS

In our study, we found that serum ELA levels were significantly higher in patients with CLL.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights that ELA targeting may be a potential therapeutic option for treating CLL.

Efficacy and safety of elcatonin in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis: a systematic review with network meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

The present systematic review aimed to evaluate bone mineral density (BMD) change and complication rates of elcatonin on treating postmenopausal osteoporosis. The result confirmed efficacy of elcatonin and safety in combination therapies of elcatonin (C-E).

INTRODUCTION

Postmenopausal osteoporosis is an important issue in global aging trends. One treatment of osteoporosis is elcatonin, a kind of calcitonin. However, it has been challenged for long time because of safety. Many trials investigated on this topic, but they were designed differently. Those designs can be categorized in monotherapy of elcatonin (M-E) and C-E. Unfortunately, no synthesized evidence dealt this topic.

METHODS

This study systematically identified target trials from six important databases and only included randomized controlled trial for synthesis. Two investigators assessed quality of eligible trials using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool, and they independently extracted data. Network meta-analysis performed Peto odds ratio (POR, used for dealing with zero cell) or weighted mean difference (WMD, for continuous data) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) and consistency H.

RESULTS

Sixteen trials recruiting 2754 women with postmenopausal osteoporosis were included in our study. Elcatonin therapies and non-elcatonin medications had comparable fracture rates and bone mineral density change. Yet, C-E (WMD, - 18.93; 95% CI, - 23.97 to - 13.89) and M-E (WMD, - 13.72; 95% CI, - 19.51 to - 7.94) had significantly lower pain score than non-elcatonin medications. However, M-E (POR = 8.413, 95% CI, 2.031 to 34.859) and non-elcatonin medication (Peto OR, 7.450; 95% CI, 1.479 to 37.530) had significantly higher complication rates than placebo. No evidence detected inconsistency and small study effect in this network model.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on current evidence, C-E may be considered for treating postmenopausal osteoporosis because it benefits on pain relief and complications. Moreover, it shows comparable fracture rate and bone mineral density change as compared with anti-osteoporosis and calcium supplements. Nevertheless, further trials are needed to investigate formula and dosages of elcatonin.

Molecular and Pathophysiological Mechanisms of Diabetic Retinopathy in Relation to Adhesion Molecules

Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) is considered as a most common microvascular complication of diabetes affected by one in three people who are suffered for diabetes. Several pathophysiological mechanisms and adhesion molecules may play an etiologic role in the development of diabetes and its complications. The adhesion molecules located on both leucocytes and endothelial cells and considered as important molecules which can assessed the endothelial function. The functions of adhesion molecules involved in the cellular margination, slow rolling and transmigration of leukocytes. Hyperglycemia and its immediate biochemical sequelae or the low-grade inflammation directly alter endothelial function or influence endothelial cell functioning indirectly by induce oxidative stress and activates leukocytosis and leukocyte-endothelial cell interactions by the increased expression of adhesion molecules, growth factors, inflammatory factors, chemokines etc. and results DR. This review summarized the several pathophysiological mechanisms and role of adhesion molecules in disruption of homeostasis of vasculature by leukocytes in the development of diabetic retinopathy.

Association between diabetic retinopathy in type 2 diabetes and the ICAM-1 rs5498 polymorphism: a meta-analysis of case-control studies

Background

Genetic studies have reported contradictory results on the association between the intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) rs5498 polymorphism and diabetic retinopathy (DR) risk in type 2 diabetic patients. We aimed to perform a systematic literature search and conduct random-effects meta-analysis to provide a quantitative evaluation.

Methods

We searched Pubmed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science and Wanfang databases from inception up to January 2018. Allelic and genotype frequencies of rs5498 was compared between DR cases and controls. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using a random effects model.

Results

Nine studies involving a total of 1792 cases and 1400 controls met our inclusion criteria. We did not find any significant association between rs5498 and DR risk at the dominant model (GG + GA versus AA, OR = 1.00, 95% CI: 0.66–1.50, P = 0.987), the recessive model (GG versus GA + AA, OR = 1.24, 95% CI: 0.86–1.77, P = 0.245), the GG versus AA contrast (OR = 1.14, 95% CI: 0.68–1.92, P = 0.611), and the G allele versus A allele contrast (OR = 1.08, 95% CI: 0.81–1.45, P = 0.592). Subgroup analysis by ethnicity showed no association in Asian populations (G allele versus A allele: OR = 1.05, 95% CI: 0.76–1.44, P = 0.790). Subgroup analysis by DR subtype also did not reveal any association of rs5498 with proliferative DR (G allele versus A allele: OR = 1.34, 95% CI: 0.71–2.52, P = 0.364) and non-proliferative DR (G allele versus A allele: OR = 0.71, 95% CI: 0.43–1.17, P = 0.180).

Conclusion

Our meta-analyses provide no evidence of the association of rs5498 with DR in type 2 diabetic patients.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12886-018-0961-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Comparative evaluation of cannabinoid receptors, apelin and S100A6 protein in the heart of women of different age groups

Background

Recent studies have shown a significant role of the endocannabinoid system, apelin and S100A6 protein in the regulation of cardiovascular system functioning. The aim of the study was to compare and evaluate the distribution of cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2), apelin and S100A6 protein in the heart of healthy women in different age groups.

Methods

The study was conducted on the hearts of 10 women (organ donors) without a history of cardiovascular disease, who were divided into two age groups: women older than 50 years and women under 50 years of age. Paraffin heart sections were processed by immunohistochemistry for detection of cannabinoids receptors (CB1 and CB2), apelin and S100A6 protein.

Results

CB1 and CB2 immunoreactivity in the cytoplasm of cardiomyocytes in the heart of women over 50 was weaker than in younger individuals. There was also strong immunoreactivity of CB1 in intercalated discs (ICDs) of the heart, only in women over 50. The presence of this receptor in this location was not found in women under 50. Apelin- and S100A6-immunoreactivity in the cardiomyocytes was stronger in older women compared to women under 50.The CB1, apelin and S100A6 immunostaining in the endothelium of myocardial vessels was weaker in women over 50 than in younger women, while intensity of CB2- immunoreaction in coronary endothelium was similar in both groups of women.

The results of the study indicate the important role of endocannabinoids, apelin, and S100A6 protein in cardiac muscle function.

Conclusion

This report might contribute to a better understanding of the role of endocannabinoid system, apelin and S100 proteins in heart function as well as shed new light on processes involved in age-related cardiomyopathy.

Protective effects of a modified apelin-12 and dinitrosyl iron complexes in experimental cardioplegic ischemia and reperfusion

The maintenance of nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability has been recognized as an important component of myocardial protection during cardiac surgery. This study was designed to evaluate the efficacy of using two NO-donating compounds in cardioplegia and reperfusion: (i) a modified peptide apelin-12 (MA12) that activates endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) and (ii) dinitrosyl iron complexes with reduced glutathione (DNIC-GS), a natural NO vehicle. Isolated perfused working rat hearts were subjected to normothermic global ischemia and reperfusion. St. Thomas' Hospital cardioplegic solution (STH) containing 140 μM MA12 or 100 μM DNIC-GS was used. In separate series, 140 μM MA12 or 100 μM DNIC-GS was administered at early reperfusion. Metabolic state of the hearts was evaluated by myocardial content of high-energy phosphates and lactate. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity in myocardial effluent was used as an index of cell membrane damage. Cardioplegia with MA12 or DNIC-GS improved recovery of coronary flow and cardiac function, and reduced LDH leakage in perfusate compared with STH without additives. Cardioplegic arrest with MA12 significantly enhanced preservation of high-energy phosphates and decreased accumulation of lactate in reperfused hearts. The overall protective effect of cardioplegia with MA12 was significantly greater than with DNIC-GS. The administration of MA12 or DNIC-GS at early reperfusion also increased metabolic and functional recovery of reperfused hearts. In this case, recovery of cardiac contractile and pump function indices was significantly higher if reperfusion was performed with DNIC-GS. The results show that MA12 and DNIC-GS are promising adjunct agents for protection of the heart during cardioplegic arrest and reperfusion.

Participation of Tumor-Associated Myeloid Cells in Progression of Amelanotic Melanoma (RMM Tumor Line) in F344 Rats, with Particular Reference to MHC Class II- and CD163-Expressing Cells

Tumor progression is often influenced by infiltration of myeloid cells; depending on the M1- or M2-like activation status, these cells may have either inhibitory or promoting effects on tumor growth. We investigated the properties of tumor-associated myeloid cells in a previously established homotransplantable amelanotic melanoma (RMM tumor line) in F344 rats. RMM tumor nodules were allowed to reach the sizes of 0.5, 1, 2 and 3 cm, respectively. Immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry was performed for macrophage markers CD68 and CD163, and for the antigen-presenting cell marker, MHC class II. Although no significant change was observed in the number of CD68⁺ and CD163⁺ macrophages during RMM progression, the number of MHC class II⁺ antigen-presenting cells was reduced in 3 cm nodules. Real-time RT-PCR of laser microdissection samples obtained from RMM regions rich in MHC class II⁺ cells demonstrated high expressions of M1-like factors: IFN-γ, GM-CSF and IL-12a. Furthermore, fluorescence-activated cell sorting, followed by real-time RT-PCR for CD11b⁺ MHC class II⁺ (myeloid antigen-presenting cells), CD11b⁺ CD163⁺ (M2 type myeloid cells), CD11b⁺ CD80⁺ (M1 type myeloid cells) and CD11b⁺ CD11c⁺ (dendritic cells) cells was performed. Based on the levels of inflammation- and tumor progression-related factors, MHC class II⁺ antigen-presenting cells showed polarization towards M1, while CD163⁺ macrophages, towards M2. CD80⁺ and CD11c⁺ myeloid cells did not show clear functional polarization. Our results provide novel information on tumor-associated myeloid cells in amelanotic melanoma, and may become useful in further research on melanoma immunity.

Imaging bacteria with radiolabelled quinolones, cephalosporins and siderophores for imaging infection: a systematic review

Bacterial infections are still one of the main causes of patient morbidity and mortality worldwide. Nowadays, many imaging techniques, like computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging, are used to identify inflammatory processes, but, although they recognize anatomical modifications, they cannot easily distinguish bacterial infective foci from non bacterial infections. In nuclear medicine, many efforts have been made to develop specific radiopharmaceuticals to discriminate infection from sterile inflammation. Several compounds (antimicrobial peptides, leukocytes, cytokines, antibiotics…) have been radiolabelled and tested in vitro and in vivo, but none proved to be highly specific for bacteria. Indeed factors, including the number and strain of bacteria, the infection site, and the host condition may affect the specificity of tested radiopharmaceuticals. Ciprofloxacin has been proposed and intensively studied because of its easy radiolabelling method, broad spectrum, and low cost, but at the same time it presents some problems such as low stability or the risk of antibiotic resistance. Therefore, in the present review studies with ciprofloxacin and other radiolabelled antibiotics as possible substitutes of ciprofloxacin are reported. Among them we can distinguish different classes, such as cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones, inhibitors of nucleic acid synthesis, inhibitors of bacterial cell wall synthesis and inhibitors of protein synthesis; then also others, like siderophores or maltodextrin-based probes, have been discussed as bacterial infection imaging agents. A systematic analysis was performed to report the main characteristics and differences of each antibiotic to provide an overview about the state of the art of imaging infection with radiolabelled antibiotics.

Nrf2 as molecular target for polyphenols: A novel therapeutic strategy in diabetic retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is a microvascular complication of diabetes that is considered one of the leading causes of blindness among adults. More than 4.4 million people suffer from this disorder throughout the world. Growing evidence suggests that oxidative stress plays a crucial role in the pathophysiology of diabetic retinopathy. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), a redox sensitive transcription factor, plays an essential protective role in regulating the physiological response to oxidative and electrophilic stress via regulation of multiple genes encoding antioxidant proteins and phase II detoxifying enzymes. Many studies suggest that dozens of natural compounds, including polyphenols, can supress oxidative stress and inflammation through targeting Nrf2 and consequently activating the antioxidant response element-related cytoprotective genes. Therefore, Nrf2 may provide a new therapeutic target for treatment of diabetic retinopathy. In the present article, we will focus on the role of Nrf2 in diabetic retinopathy and the ability of polyphenols to target Nrf2 as a therapeutic strategy.

PDCD2 and NCoR1 as putative tumor suppressors in gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors

PURPOSE

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are the most common mesenchymal tumors in the gastrointestinal tract. Previously, PDCD2 (programmed cell death protein 2) has been identified as a putative tumor suppressor in gastric cancer. As yet, however, no reports on PDCD2 expression and its physical interactor NCoR1 (nuclear receptor co-repressor), and their effects in GIST have been reported.

METHODS

The expression of PDCD2 and NCoR1 was assessed in 43 primary gastric GIST and normal gastric tissue samples using Western blotting and quantitative real-time PCR. Next, associations between PDCD2 and NCoR1 expression and various clinicopathological features, including survival, were determined. To assess the effects of PDCD2 and NCoR1 expression in vitro, two GIST-derived cell lines (GIST-T1 and GIST882) were (co-)transfected with the expression vectors pEGFP-N1-PDCD2 and pcDNA3.1-NCoR1, after which the cells were subjected to CCK-8, PI staining and Annexin V-FITC/PI double staining assays, respectively. Finally, the mechanisms of action of PDCD2 and NCoR1 in GIST-derived cells were determined using immunoprecipitation and Western blotting assays.

RESULTS

We found that the PDCD2 and NCoR1 protein levels were lower in gastric GIST tissues than in normal gastric tissues. The PDCD2 and NCoR1 expression levels were found to be significantly associated with the survival of the patients. Through exogenous expression analyses, we found that PDCD2 and NCoR1 can decrease proliferation, and increase apoptosis and G1 cell cycle arrest, in GIST-derived cells. Furthermore, we found that PDCD2 and NCoR1 can activate Smad2 and Smad3.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data indicate that both PDCD2 and NCoR1 may act as tumor suppressors in GIST cells through the Smad signaling pathway.

Serum markers for the noninvasive diagnosis of endometriosis

Endometriosis is a disease that affects millions of women worldwide and its diagnosis is still challenging. Medical history, symptoms together with imaging data may address the correct diagnosis, but the gold standard remains laparoscopic assessment with histological confirmation. The development of serum markers as diagnostic tools for endometriosis may allow a prompt and noninvasive diagnosis. Several serum biomarkers have been investigated over the years, but none of these have shown a clinical utility and nowadays the more realistic diagnostic biomarker consists in a panel of biomarkers. The recent introduction of new technologies such as genomics and proteomics may represent the future perspective of endometriosis diagnosis.

Intranasal Delivery of Apelin-13 Is Neuroprotective and Promotes Angiogenesis After Ischemic Stroke in Mice

Apelin is a peptide originally isolated from bovine stomach tissue extracts and identified as an endogenous ligand of the APJ receptor; recent work showed that apelin ameliorates the ischemic injury in the heart and the brain. Being an analogue to the angiotensin II receptor, the apelin/APJ signaling may mediate angiogenesis process. We explored the noninvasive intranasal brain delivery method and investigated therapeutic effects of apelin-13 in a focal ischemic stroke model of mice. Intranasal administration of apelin-13 (4 mg/kg) was given 30 min after the onset of stroke and repeated once daily. Three days after stroke, mice received apelin-13 had significantly reduced infarct volume and less neuronal death in the penumbra. Western blot analyses showed upregulated levels of apelin, apelin receptor APLNR, and Bcl-2 and decreased caspase-3 activation in the apelin-13-treated brain. The proinflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-1β, and chemokine monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 mRNA increased in the ischemic brain, which were significantly attenuated by apelin-13. Apelin-13 remarkably reduced microglia recruitment and activation in the penumbra according to morphological features of Iba-1-positive cells 3 days after ischemia. Apelin-13 significantly increased the expression of angiogenic factor vascular endothelial growth factor and matrix metalloproteinase-9 14 days after stroke. Angiogenesis illustrated by collagen IV + /5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridin + colabeled cells was significantly increased by the apelin-13 treatment 21 days after stroke. Finally, apelin-13 promoted the local cerebral blood flow restoration and long-term functional recovery. This study demonstrates a noninvasive intranasal delivery of apelin-13 after stroke, suggesting that the reduced inflammatory activities, decreased cell death, and increased angiogenesis contribute to the therapeutic benefits of apelin-13.

Hyperbilirubinaemia in appendicitis: the diagnostic value for prediction of appendicitis and appendiceal perforation

AIM

The aim of this study is to evaluate the diagnostic value of pre-operative bilirubin levels in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis and appendiceal perforation.

METHOD

A retrospective analysis of 557 patients undergoing emergency appendicectomy over a 24-month period at a large teaching hospital. Hyperbilirubinaemia was defined as >25 µmol/L. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics.

RESULTS

484 of the 557 (86.9 %) operated cases were found histologically to be appendicitis. 116 cases of the 484 were perforated (24 %). Bilirubin levels were significantly higher in the group with appendicitis versus the group found to have a normal appendix at histology, [median (IQR) 12.0 µmol/L (9.00) vs. 8.0 µmol/L (7.00) respectively, p < 0.001], despite being within normal serum bilirubin range. Sensitivity of hyperbilirubinaemia for acute appendicitis was only 8 %, however specificity was 94 %. PPV was 85 % and NPV was 26 %. Whilst bilirubin was higher in patients with a perforated appendix versus acute appendicitis [median (IQR) 13.0 µmol/L (9.00) vs. 11.0 µmol/L (9.00), respectively], statistically, there was no significant difference in pre-operative bilirubin levels between the perforated appendicitis cases and the non-perforated appendicitis cases (p = 0.326). However, the specificity of hyperbilirubinaemia for perforated appendicitis was 93 %, sensitivity 9.4 %, PPV 24 % and NPV 82 %.

CONCLUSION

Bilirubin levels may be high, but remain within normal range, in cases of appendicitis. Therefore, bilirubin levels may be a useful measurement when investigating a patient with suspected appendicitis. Hyperbilirubinaemia is highly specific with regards to perforation, a finding supported by other studies. However, possibly because of the few perforated cases in this study, we cannot recommend that hyperbilirubinaemia be used to predict perforation.

Role of MiR-30a in cardiomyocyte autophagy induced by Angiotensin II

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate whether MiR-30a regulates autophagy by regulating the Beclin-1 protein, which is the marker for autophagosomes during myocardial injury, when induced by angiotensin II (Ang II).

METHODS

We randomly assigned 20 rats into two equal groups: Control group and Ang II group. We detected the expression of MiR-30a by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and we employed western blotting to detect the protein expression of Beclin-1.

RESULTS

In this study, we found that Ang II induced cardiomyocyte autophagy, together with down-regulation of MiR-30a and upregulation of the Beclin-1 protein. We also found that the Beclin-1 protein is regulated by MiR-30a, by transferring a MiR-30a mimic or AMO-204 into the cardiomyocytes.

CONCLUSION

These studies provided evidence that MiR-30a plays an important role in regulating autophagy through the Beclin-1 protein, during myocardial injury induced by Ang II.

Rapidly rising incidence of childhood type 1 diabetes in Chinese population: epidemiology in Shanghai during 1997-2011

The aim of this study was to investigate incidence trend of childhood type 1 diabetes in Shanghai, a megalopolis in east China. We established a population-based retrospective registry for the disease in the city's registered population during 1997-2011 and collected 622 incident type 1 diabetes in children aged 0-14 years. Standardized incidence rates and 95 % CI were estimated by applying the capture-recapture method and assuming Poisson distribution. Incidence trend was analyzed using the Poisson regression model. The mean annual incidence of childhood type 1 diabetes was 3.1 per 100,000 person-years. We did not observe significant difference in incidence between boys and girls. The incidence is unstable and had a mean annual increase 14.2 % per year during the studied period. A faster annual increase was observed in boys, warmer seasons, and in the outer regions of the city. If present trends continue, the number of new type 1 diabetes cases will double from 2016 to 2020, and prevalent cases will sextuple by 2025. Our results showed the incidence of childhood type 1 diabetes was rising rapidly in Shanghai. More studies are needed to analyze incidence changes in other regions of China for appropriate allocation of healthcare resources.

Prolyl carboxypeptidase activity decline correlates with severity and short-term outcome in acute ischemic stroke

Prolyl carboxypeptidase (PRCP) is an enzyme associated with cerebrovascular risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, obesity and hyperlipidemia. We aim to evaluate the relation between serum PRCP activity and severity, evolution and outcome of acute ischemic stroke. We used a specific RP-HPLC activity assay to measure PRCP activity in serum of 50 stroke patients at admission, and at 24 h, 72 h and 7 days after stroke onset to assess correlations with stroke severity based on the National Institutes of Health Stroke scale score (NIHSS), infarct volume on brain MRI scan, stroke outcome based on the modified Rankin scale (mRS) and mortality at 3 months after stroke. The average PRCP activity in serum decreased significantly the first 24 h after stroke onset and returned to baseline values at day 7. High NIHSS scores and infarct volumes at admission were related with a more pronounced decrease of PRCP in the first 24 h after stroke (ΔPRCP24, r = 0.31, P < 0.05; r = 0.30, P < 0.05). In addition, patients who displayed a more pronounced decrease in PRCP levels during the first 24 h after stroke were more likely to be institutionalized upon discharge (n = 21) (ΔPRCP24 ± SD, 0.05 ± 0.10 U/L vs. 0.17 ± 0.14 U/L, P = 0.001). The decrease in PRCP levels in the first 24 h after stroke onset is associated with stroke severity and an unfavourable short-term stroke outcome.

A comparison of nifedipine and tamsulosin as medical expulsive therapy for the management of lower ureteral stones without ESWL

Administration of nifedipine or tamsulosin has been suggested to augment stone expulsion rates. We aimed to compare the stone expulsion rates and adverse effects associated with the use of nifedipine or tamsulosin as medical expulsive therapy (MET) for the management of lower ureteral stones (LUS) without extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) via a literature review and meta-analysis. Relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were identified from the Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane CENTRAL, and Google Scholar databases. Finally, a total of 7 RCTs with 3897 patients were included. Our meta-analysis showed that tamsulosin could significantly increase the stone expulsion rate relative to nifedipine in patients with LUS (random-effects model; risk ratio [RR] = 0.81; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.75–0.88; P < 0.00001). The subgroup analysis indicated no statistically significant difference between the drugs with regard to minor or major adverse effects (fixed-effect model; RR = 1.19, 95% CI = 0.91–1.54, P = 0.20; and RR = 1.63, 95% CI = 0.22–11.82, P = 0.63, respectively). This meta-analysis demonstrated that tamsulosin was more effective than nifedipine in patients with LUS, as evidenced by the higher stone expulsion rate. Tamsulosin treatment should therefore be considered for patients with LUS.

Apelin-APJ effects of ginsenoside-Rb1 depending on hypoxia-induced factor 1α in hypoxia neonatal cardiomyocytes

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether ginsenoside-Rb1 (Gs-Rb1) inhibits the apoptosis of hypoxia cardiomyocytes by up-regulating apelin-APJ system and whether the system is affected by hypoxia-induced factor 1α (Hif-1α).

METHODS

Neonatal rat cardiomyocytes were randomly divided into 6 groups: a control group, a simple CoCl group, a simple Gs-Rb1 group, a CoCl and Gs-Rb1 hypoxia group, a CoCl and 3-(5'-hydroxymethyl-2'-furyl)-1-benzylindazole (YC-1) group, a CoCl and YC-1 group and a Gs-Rb1 group, in which YC-1 inhibits the synthesis and accelerates the degradation of Hif-1a. The concentration of CoCl, Gs-Rb1 and YC-1 was 500 μmol/L, 200 μmol/L and 5 μmol/L, respectively; the apoptosis ratio was analyzed with a flow cytometer; and apelin, APJ and Hif-1α were assayed with immunocytochemistry, Western blot assays and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).

RESULTS

(1) The anti-apoptosis effect of Gs-Rb1 on hypoxia cardiomyocytes was significantly inhibited by YC-1; (2) Hypoxia significantly up-graded the expression of mRNA and protein of apelin; this effect was further reinforced by Gs-Rb1 and significantly inhibited by YC-1; (3) Gs-Rb1 further strengthened the expression of APJ mRNA and APJ proteins once hypoxia occurred, which was significantly inhibited by YC-1; (4) Gs-Rb1 significantly increased the expression of Hif-1α, which was completely abolished by YC-1; (5) There was a negative relationship between AR and apelin (or APJ, including mRNA and protein), a positive correlation between apelin (or APJ) protein and Hif-1a protein, in hypoxia cardiomyocytes.

CONCLUSION

The apelin-APJ system plays an important role in the anti-apoptosis effect of Gs-Rb1 on hypoxia neonatal cardiomyocytes, which was partly adjusted by Hif-1α.

Serum Helicobacter pylori NapA antibody as a potential biomarker for gastric cancer

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is strongly associated with gastric cancer. However, only a minority of infected individuals ever develop gastric cancer. This risk stratification may be in part due to differences among strains. The relationship between neutrophil-activating protein (NapA) and gastric cancer is unclear. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the significance of NapA as a biomarker in gastric cancer. We used enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to determine the status of H. pylori infection. Indirect ELISA method was used for detection of NapA antibody titer in the serum of H. pylori infected individuals. Unconditional logistic regressions were adopted to analyze the variables and determine the association of NapA and gastric cancer. The results of study indicated serum H. pylori NapA antibody level were associated with a reduced risk for development of gastric cancer. It may be used in conjugation with other indicators for gastric cancer detection.

Luteolin, a bioflavonoid inhibits Azoxymethane-induced colorectal cancer through activation of Nrf2 signaling

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is now perceived as a multistep process characterized by the accumulation of genetic alterations in oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes. Plant-derived compounds are receiving considerable attention for their potential role in reducing cancer risk. Luteolin, a bioflavonoid present in many fruits and vegetables, possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative properties. This study was designed to investigate the possible role of luteolin administration on Phase 1 and 2 enzymes and NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/keap1 pathway. Male Balb/C mice were divided into four groups: normal control, Azoxymethane (AOM)-induced, AOM-induced and luteolin treated, normal control treated with luteolin. CRC was induced by administration of AOM (15 mg/kg body weight) intraperitoneally (i.p.) once a week for three weeks. Luteolin administration (1.2 mg/kg body weight/day) significantly alleviated Phase1 enzymes in colon and liver, it increased the levels of phase 2 enzymes. Luteolin modulates the expressions of GST-α, µ and also the expression of Nrf2. Collectively, results of our hypothesis show that luteolin is a novel candidate for treating CRC.

Regulation of autophagy by metabolic and stress signaling pathways in the heart

Autophagy is an essential process for the maintenance of cellular homeostasis in the heart under both normal and stress conditions. Autophagy is a key degradation pathway and acts as a quality control sensor. It protects myocytes from cytotoxic protein aggregates and dysfunctional organelles by quickly clearing them from the cell. It also responds to changes in energy demand and mechanical stressors to maintain contractile function. The autophagic-lysosomal pathway responds to serum starvation to ensure that the cell maintains its metabolism and energy levels when nutrients run low. In contrast, excessive activation of autophagy is detrimental to cells and contributes to the development of pathological conditions. A number of signaling pathways and proteins regulate autophagy. These include the 5'-AMP-activated protein kinase/mammalian target of rapamycin pathway, FoxO transcription factors, Sirtuin 1, oxidative stress, Bcl-2 family proteins, and the E3 ubiquitin ligase Parkin. In this review, we will discuss how this diverse cast of characters regulates the important autophagic process in the myocardium.

SJSZ glycoprotein (38 kDa) modulates macrophage type 1/2-related factors at hepatocarcinogenic stage in N-nitrosodiethylamine-treated Balb/c

Macrophage plays critical role for tumor progression: Type 1 (M1) for tumor prevention and type 2 (M2) for promotion in hepatocellular carcinoma. In order to study the chemopreventive effects of the SJSZ glycoprotein (38 kDa) on M1- or M2-related factors, Balb/c was injected intraperitoneally with N-nitrosodiethylamine (DEN; 50 mg/kg, BW) for 7 weeks. After 7 weeks, the mice were sacrificed. After that, peritoneal macrophages were isolated. We evaluated the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO), hepatocarcinogenic signals [activities of mitogen-activated associated kinase (MAPKs), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), nuclear factor (NF)-κB, and signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 6,], cytokines [interleukin (IL)-10, IL-4, IL-12, and interferon (IFN)-γ], and CD163-positive macrophages (M2 polarization) using biochemical methods, immunoblot analysis, qRT-PCR, ELISA, and flow cytometry. The results revealed that the SJSZ glycoprotein (10 mg/kg, BW) inhibits the phosphorylation of MAPKs and expression of NF-κB, pSTAT6, IL-10, and IL-4; and normalizes production of ROS and NO, and expression of iNOS, IL-12, and IFN-γ. Especially, it inhibited CD163-positive macrophages. In conclusion, these results indicated that SJSZ glycoprotein modulates polarization of macrophage type 1 and type 2 at hepatocarcinogenic initial stage in DEN-treated Balb/c. Thus, SJSZ glycoprotein may be useful as one of immunomodulating agents which have to regulate M1- and M2-related factors to prevent tumor progression.

The interaction between ER and NFκB in resistance to endocrine therapy

Endocrine therapy is a commonly used treatment for estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancer. Although endocrine therapy has a favorable outcome in many patients, development of resistance is common. Recent studies have shown that NFκB, a transcription factor regulating a wide variety of cellular processes, might play a role in the development of endocrine resistance. The precise interaction between ER and NFκB and how this contributes to the attenuated responsiveness of ER-positive breast cancer cells to hormonal treatment remains unclear. This review provides an overview of the mechanisms of action for both transcription factors and focuses on the current knowledge explaining how ER and NFκB affect each other's activity and how this cross-talk might contribute to the development of an endocrine resistance phenotype in breast cancer cells.

Deletion of a single-copy DAAM1 gene in congenital heart defect: a case report

BACKGROUND

With an increasing incidence of congenital heart defects (CHDs) in recent years, genotype-phenotype correlation and array-based methods have contributed to the genome-wide analysis and understanding of genetic variations in the CHD population. Here, we report a copy number deletion of chromosomal 14q23.1 in a female fetus with complex congenital heart defects. This is the first description of DAAM1 gene deletion associated with congenital heart anomalies.

CASE PRESENTATION

Compared with the control population, one CHD fetus showed a unique copy number deletion of 14q23.1, a region that harbored DAAM1 and KIAA0666 genes.

CONCLUSIONS

Results suggest that the copy number deletion on chromosome 14q23.1 may be critical for cardiogenesis. However, the exact relationship and mechanism of how DAAM1 and KIAA0666 deletion contributes to the onset of CHD is yet to be determined.

The association of annexin A2 and cancers

Annexins are a group of calcium- and phospholipid-dependent proteins. As a member of the annexin, annexin A2 (Anxa2) is widely distributed in nucleus, cytoplasm and extracellular surface and mainly expressed in human endothelial cells, mononuclear cells, macrophages, marrow cells and some tumor cells. Accumulated evidences indicated that Anxa2 deregulation was associated with the occurrence, invasion and metastasis of cancers. Anxa2 up-regulation was related to the development, invasion, metastasis and drug resistance of hepatocellular carcinoma, colorectal cancer, breast cancer, pancreatic cancer, acute promyelocytic leukemia and renal cell carcinoma; while Anxa2 down-regulation was associated with prostate cancer, esophageal squamous carcinoma and nasopharyngeal carcinoma and sinonasal adenocarcinoma. The association between Anxa2 and malignant tumors as well as the potential action mechanisms were summarized in current work. Anxa2 might be used as a potential biomarker for the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of certain tumors.

A rare tumor of the lung: inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor

Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor is a rare benign lesion whose tumor origin is now proven. It represents 0.7% of all lung tumors. We report the case of a three-year-old child who suffered from a chronic cough with recurrent respiratory infections. Chest X-ray and computed tomography revealed the presence of a left lower lobe lung mass. After pneumonectomy, histological examination combined with immunohistochemical study discovered an inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor.The virtual slide(s) for this article can be found here: http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/8722069326962972.

HLA-DRB1 gene polymorphism is associated with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy: a meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Some studies have reported that the HLA-DRB1 allele was associated with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy. However, there have been inconsistent results among different studies. To clarify the association of HLA-DRB1 and idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy, a meta-analysis of case-control studies was performed.

METHODS

PubMed database, Science Citation Index database, The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials database, China National Knowledge Information database, Chinese Biomedical Literature database, Wanfang database, and VIP database in China were searched. Search terms included dilated cardiomyopathy and DRB1. Five case-control studies were included in the present meta-analysis to assess the association between HLA-DRB1*1401, HLA-DRB1*0901, HLA-DRB1*0301, and idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy.

RESULTS

A total of four studies were included in our meta-analysis for HLA-DRB1*1401 and HLA-DRB1*0901. The pooled odds ratio (OR) was 2.6 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.11-6.11, P<0.05] and 0.70 (95% CI 0.48-1.00, P=0.05), respectively. For the HLA-DRB1*0301 allele, just three studies were included in our meta-analysis. The pooled OR was 0.49 (95% CI 0.27-0.91, P<0.05). The present meta-analysis indicated that the frequency of HLA-DRB1*1401 was higher in idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy patients than in healthy people, whereas HLA-DRB1*0901 and HLA-DRB1*0301 were higher in healthy people than in idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy patients.

CONCLUSION

The HLA-DRB1*1401 allele might be a risk factor for idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy and HLA-DRB1*0901 and HLA-DRB1*0301 might protect humans from idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy.

Apelin, diabetes, and obesity

Apelin is a peptide known as the ligand of the G-protein-coupled receptor APJ. Several active apelin forms exist such as apelin-36, apelin-17, apelin-13, and the pyroglutamated form of apelin-13. Apelin and APJ are expressed in the central nervous system, particularly in the hypothalamus and in many peripheral tissues. Apelin has been shown to be involved in the regulation of cardiovascular and fluid homeostasis, food intake, cell proliferation, and angiogenesis. In addition to be an ubiquitous peptide, apelin is also produced and secreted by adipocytes and thus considered as an adipokine. This has opened a new field of investigation establishing a link between apelin and metabolic disorders (obesity, type 2 diabetes, etc.) which is the focus of the present review. Several studies, but not all, have reported an increase of plasma apelin concentrations in humans and in animal models with different metabolic pathologies. Moreover, important roles for apelin both in glucose and lipid metabolism have been highlighted as well as the associated signaling pathways. Apelin appears as a beneficial adipokine with anti-obesity and anti-diabetic properties and thus as a promising therapeutic target in metabolic disorders.

Effect of apelin-apelin receptor system in postischaemic myocardial protection: a pharmacological postconditioning tool?

In the heart, a great part of ischaemia and reperfusion injuries occurs mainly during the first minutes of reperfusion. The opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pores is the end point of the cascade to myocardial damage. Also, oxidative stress contributes to cell death. Postconditioning is a protective maneuver that can be selectively timed at the beginning of reperfusion. It is hypothesized that it acts via the reperfusion injury salvage kinase pathway, which includes nitric oxide-dependent and nitric oxide-independent cascades. Apelin is an endogenous peptide that can protect the heart from reperfusion injury if given at the beginning of reperfusion but not before ischaemia. It is hypothesized that it may trigger the reperfusion injury salvage kinase pathway via a specific apelin receptor. Apelin can also limit the oxidative stress by the activation of superoxide dismutase. Apelin and apelin receptor expression increase early after ischaemia and at the beginning of an ischaemic heart failure. These observations suggest that the endogenous release of the peptide can limit the severity of an infarction and ameliorate myocardial contractility compromised by the appearance of the failure. Due to its protective activities, apelin could be a therapeutic tool if administered with the same catheter used for angioplasty or after the maneuvers aimed at bypassing a coronary occlusion.

From molecular mechanisms of cardiac development to genetic substrate of congenital heart diseases

Congenital heart disease is one of the most important chapters in medicine because its incidence is increasing and nowadays it is close to 1.2%. Most congenital heart disorders are the result of defects during embryogenesis, which implies that they are due to alterations in genes involved in cardiac development. This review summarizes current knowledge regarding the molecular mechanisms involved in cardiac development in order to clarify the genetic basis of congenital heart disease.

Dehydroglyasperin C isolated from licorice caused Nrf2-mediated induction of detoxifying enzymes

Our preliminary experiment demonstrated that a n-hexane/EtOH (9:1, volume) extract of Glycyrrhiza uralensis (licorice) caused a significant induction of NAD(P)H:oxidoquinone reductase (NQO1), one of the well-known phase 2 detoxifying enzymes. We isolated dehydroglyasperin C (DGC) as a potent phase 2 enzyme inducer from licorice. DGC induced NQO1 both in wild-type murine hepatoma Hepa1c1c7 and ARNT-lacking BPRc1 cells, indicating that the compound is a monofunctional inducer. The compound induced not only NQO1 but also some other phase 2 detoxifying/antioxidant enzymes, such as glutathione S-transferase, gamma-glutamylcysteine synthase, glutathione reductase, and heme oxygenase 1. Similar to most monofunctional inducers, DGC caused the accumulation of Nrf2 in the nucleus in dose- and time-dependent manners and thereby activated expression of phase 2 detoxifying enzymes. It also resulted in a dose-dependent increase in the luciferase activity in the reporter assay, in which HepG2-C8 cells transfected with antioxidant response element (ARE)-luciferase construct were used, suggesting that the induction of phase 2 detoxifying and antioxidant enzymes could be achieved through the interaction of Nrf2 with the ARE sequence in the promoter region of their genes.