How is mRNA expression predictive for protein expression? A correlation study on human circulating monocytes

Innate and adaptive immune response of Rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) naturally infected with Yersinia ruckeri

Rainbow trout is an important fish species for Peruvian artisanal aquaculture, comprising over 60 % of the total aquaculture production. However, their industry has been highly affected by several bacterial agents such as Yersinia ruckeri. This pathogen is the causative agent of Enteric Redmouth Disease, and causes high mortality in fingerlings and chronic infection in adult rainbow trout. To date, the immune response of rainbow trout against Y. ruckeri has been well studied in laboratory-controlled infection studies (i.e. intraperitoneal infection, bath immersion), however, the immune response during natural infection has not been explored. To address this, in this study, 35 clinically healthy O. mykiss without evidence of lesions or changes in behavior and 32 rainbow trout naturally infected by Y. ruckeri, were collected from semi-intensive fish farms located in the Central Highlands of Peru. To evaluate the effect on the immune response, RT-qPCR, western blotting, and ELISA were conducted using head kidney, spleen, and skin tissues to evaluate the relative gene expression and protein levels. Our results show a significant increase in the expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokines il1b, tnfa, and il6, as well as ifng in all three tissues, as well as increases in IL-1β and IFN-γ protein levels. The endogenous pathway of antigen presentation showed to play a key role in defense against Y. ruckeri, due to the upregulation of mhc-I, tapasin, and b2m transcripts, and the significant increase of Tapasin protein levels in infected rainbow trout. None of the genes associated with the exogenous pathway of antigen presentation showed a significant increase in infected fish, suggesting that this pathway is not involved in the response against this intracellular pathogen. Finally, the transcripts of immunoglobulins IgM and IgT did not show a modulation, nor were the protein levels evaluated in this study.

Ibogaine administration following repeated morphine administration upregulates myelination markers 2', 3'-cyclic nucleotide 3'-phosphodiesterase (CNP) and myelin basic protein (MBP) mRNA and protein expression in the internal capsule of Sprague Dawley rats

Ibogaine is a psychedelic alkaloid being investigated as a possible treatment for opioid use disorder. Ibogaine has a multi-receptor profile with affinities for mu and kappa opioid as well as NMDA receptors amongst others. Due to the sparsity of research into ibogaine's effects on white matter integrity and given the growing evidence that opioid use disorder is characterized by white matter pathology, we set out to investigate ibogaine's effects on two markers of myelination, 2', 3'-cyclic nucleotide 3'-phosphodiesterase (CNP) and myelin basic protein (MBP). Fifty Sprague Dawley rats were randomly assigned to five experimental groups of n = 10; (1) a saline control group received daily saline injections for 10 days, (2) a morphine control group received escalating morphine doses from 5 to 15 mg/kg over 10 days, (3) an ibogaine control group that received 10 days of saline followed by 50 mg/kg ibogaine hydrochloride, (4) a combination morphine and ibogaine group 1 that received the escalating morphine regime followed by 50 mg/kg ibogaine hydrochloride and (5) a second combination morphine and ibogaine group 2 which followed the same morphine and ibogaine regimen yet was terminated 72 h after administration compared to 24 h in the other groups. White matter from the internal capsule was dissected and qPCR and western blotting determined protein and gene expression of CNP and MBP. Morphine upregulated CNPase whereas ibogaine alone had no effect on CNP mRNA or protein expression. However, ibogaine administration following repeated morphine administration had an immediate effect by increasing CNP mRNA expression. This effect diminished after 72 h and resulted in a highly significant upregulation of CNPase protein at 72 h post administration. Ibogaine administration alone significantly upregulated protein expression yet downregulated MBP mRNA expression. Ibogaine administration following repeated morphine administration significantly upregulated MBP mRNA expression which increased at 72 h post administration resulting in a highly significant upregulation of MBP protein expression at 72 h post administration. These findings indicate that ibogaine is able to upregulate genes and proteins involved in the process of remyelination following opioid use and highlights an important mechanism of action of ibogaine's ability to treat substance use disorders.

Assessing the Potential of an Enzymatically Liberated Salmon Oil to Support Immune Health Recovery from Acute SARS-CoV-2 Infection via Change in the Expression of Cytokine, Chemokine and Interferon-Related Genes

Cytokines, chemokines, and interferons are released in response to viral infection with the ultimate aim of viral clearance. However, in SARS-CoV-2 infection, there is an imbalanced immune response, with raised cytokine levels but only a limited interferon response with inefficient viral clearance. Furthermore, the inflammatory response can be exaggerated, which risks both acute and chronic sequelae. Several observational studies have suggested a reduced risk of progression to severe COVID-19 in subjects with a higher omega-3 index. However, randomized studies of omega-3 supplementation have failed to replicate this benefit. Omega-3 fats provide important anti-inflammatory effects; however, fatty fish contains many other fatty acids that provide health benefits distinct from omega-3. Therefore, the immune health benefit of whole salmon oil (SO) was assessed in adults with mild to moderate COVID-19. Eleven subjects were randomized to best supportive care (BSC) with or without a full spectrum, enzymatically liberated SO, dosed at 4g daily, for twenty-eight days. Nasal swabs were taken to measure the change in gene expression of markers of immune response and showed that the SO provided both broad inflammation-resolving effects and improved interferon response. The results also suggest improved lung barrier function and enhanced immune memory, although the clinical relevance needs to be assessed in longer-duration studies. In conclusion, the salmon oil was well tolerated and provided broad inflammation-resolving effects, indicating a potential to enhance immune health.

GAS-Luc2 Reporter Cell Lines for Immune Checkpoint Drug Screening in Solid Tumors

Recent studies highlight the integral role of the interferon gamma receptor (IFNγR) pathway in T cell-mediated cytotoxicity against solid but not liquid tumors. IFNγ not only directly facilitates tumor cell death by T cells but also indirectly promotes cytotoxicity via myeloid phagocytosis in the tumor microenvironment. Meanwhile, full human ex vivo immune checkpoint drug screening remains challenging. We hypothesized that an engineered gamma interferon activation site response element luciferase reporter (GAS-Luc2) can be utilized for immune checkpoint drug screening in diverse ex vivo T cell-solid tumor cell co-culture systems. We comprehensively profiled cell surface proteins in ATCC's extensive collection of human tumor and immune cell lines, identifying those with endogenously high expression of established and novel immune checkpoint molecules and binding ligands. We then engineered three GAS-Luc2 reporter tumor cell lines expressing immune checkpoints PD-L1, CD155, or B7-H3/CD276. Luciferase expression was suppressed upon relevant immune checkpoint-ligand engagement. In the presence of an immune checkpoint inhibitor, T cells released IFNγ, activating the JAK-STAT pathway in GAS-Luc2 cells, and generating a quantifiable bioluminescent signal for inhibitor evaluation. These reporter lines also detected paracrine IFNγ signaling for immune checkpoint-targeted ADCC drug screening. Further development into an artificial antigen-presenting cell line (aAPC) significantly enhanced T cell signaling for superior performance in these ex vivo immune checkpoint drug screening platforms.

Immunology of Physical Exercise: Is Equus caballus an Appropriate Animal Model for Human Athletes?

Domestic horses routinely participate in vigorous and various athletic activities. This enables the horse to serve as a model for studying athletic physiology and immunology in other species, including humans. For instance, as a model of physical efforts, such as endurance rides (long-distance running/aerobic exercise) and races (anaerobic exercise), the horse can be useful in evaluating post-exercise response. Currently, there has been significant interest in finding biomarkers, which characterize the advancement of training and adaptation to physical exercise in the horse. The parallels in cellular responses to physical exercises, such as changes in receptor expression and blood cell activity, improve our understanding of the mechanisms involved in the body's response to intense physical activity. This study focuses on the changes in levels of the pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines and cellular response in the context of post-exercise immune response. Both the direction of changes in cytokine levels and cellular responses of the body, such as proliferation and expression of surface markers on lymphocytes, monocytes and neutrophils, show cross-functional similarities. This review reveals that horses are robust research models for studying the immune response to physical exercise in human athletes.

Discrepant Phenotyping of Monocytes Based on CX3CR1 and CCR2 Using Fluorescent Reporters and Antibodies

Monocytes, as well as downstream macrophages and dendritic cells, are essential players in the immune system, fulfilling key roles in homeostasis as well as in inflammatory conditions. Conventionally, driven by studies on reporter models, mouse monocytes are categorized into a classical and a non-classical subset based on their inversely correlated surface expression of Ly6C/CCR2 and CX3CR1. Here, we aimed to challenge this concept by antibody staining and reporter mouse models. Therefore, we took advantage of Cx3cr1GFP and Ccr2RFP reporter mice, in which the respective gene was replaced by a fluorescent reporter protein gene. We analyzed the expression of CX3CR1 and CCR2 by flow cytometry using several validated fluorochrome-coupled antibodies and compared them with the reporter gene signal in these reporter mouse strains. Although we were able to validate the specificity of the fluorochrome-coupled flow cytometry antibodies, mouse Ly6Chigh classical and Ly6Clow non-classical monocytes showed no differences in CX3CR1 expression levels in the peripheral blood and spleen when stained with these antibodies. On the contrary, in Cx3cr1GFP reporter mice, we were able to reproduce the inverse correlation of the CX3CR1 reporter gene signal and Ly6C surface expression. Furthermore, differential CCR2 surface expression correlating with the expression of Ly6C was observed by antibody staining, but not in Ccr2RFP reporter mice. In conclusion, our data suggest that phenotyping strategies for mouse monocyte subsets should be carefully selected. In accordance with the literature, the suitability of CX3CR1 antibody staining is limited, whereas for CCR2, caution should be applied when using reporter mice.

Quantification of AMPA receptor subunits and RNA editing-related proteins in the J20 mouse model of Alzheimer's disease by capillary western blotting

Introduction

Accurate modelling of molecular changes in Alzheimer's disease (AD) dementia is crucial for understanding the mechanisms driving neuronal pathology and for developing treatments. Synaptic dysfunction has long been implicated as a mechanism underpinning memory dysfunction in AD and may result in part from changes in adenosine deaminase acting on RNA (ADAR) mediated RNA editing of the GluA2 subunit of AMPA receptors and changes in AMPA receptor function at the post synaptic cleft. However, few studies have investigated changes in proteins which influence RNA editing and notably, AD studies that focus on studying changes in protein expression, rather than changes in mRNA, often use traditional western blotting.

Methods

Here, we demonstrate the value of automated capillary western blotting to investigate the protein expression of AMPA receptor subunits (GluA1-4), the ADAR RNA editing proteins (ADAR1-3), and proteins known to regulate RNA editing (PIN1, WWP2, FXR1P, and CREB1), in the J20 AD mouse model. We describe extensive optimisation and validation of the automated capillary western blotting method, demonstrating the use of total protein to normalise protein load, in addition to characterising the optimal protein/antibody concentrations to ensure accurate protein quantification. Following this, we assessed changes in proteins of interest in the hippocampus of 44-week-old J20 AD mice.

Results

We observed an increase in the expression of ADAR1 p110 and GluA3 and a decrease in ADAR2 in the hippocampus of 44-week-old J20 mice. These changes signify a shift in the balance of proteins that play a critical role at the synapse. Regression analysis revealed unique J20-specific correlations between changes in AMPA receptor subunits, ADAR enzymes, and proteins that regulate ADAR stability in J20 mice, highlighting potential mechanisms mediating RNA-editing changes found in AD.

Discussion

Our findings in J20 mice generally reflect changes seen in the human AD brain. This study underlines the importance of novel techniques, like automated capillary western blotting, to assess protein expression in AD. It also provides further evidence to support the hypothesis that a dysregulation in RNA editing-related proteins may play a role in the initiation and/or progression of AD.

The presence and distribution of various genes in postnatal CLP-affected palatine tissue

BACKGROUND

Worldwide cleft lip with or without a cleft palate (CL/P) is the most common craniofacial birth defect. Apart from changes in facial appearance, additionally affected individuals often suffer from various associated comorbidities requiring complex multidisciplinary treatment with overall high expenses. Understanding the complete pathogenetic mechanisms of CL/P might aid in developing new preventative strategies and therapeutic approaches, help with genetic counselling, and improve quality of life. Many genes have been associated with the development of orofacial clefts; however, the majority require further research. Based on the role of PAX7, PAX9, SHH, SOX3, WNT3A, and WNT9B in orofacial development, the intention was to use chromogenic in situ hybridization to detect the six genes in postnatal CLP-affected palatine tissue and compare their distribution within the tissue samples.

RESULTS

Statistically significant differences in the distribution of PAX7, PAX9, WNT3A, and WNT9B were observed. In total, 19 pairs of moderate to very strong positive correlations were noted.

CONCLUSIONS

Changes in the cleft-affected palatine epithelium primarily seem to be associated with the PAX7 gene; however, PAX9, WNT3A, WNT9B, and SOX3 role seems to be more limited. Whilst connective tissue changes seem to depend on PAX7 only, SHH seems to participate individually and indistinctly. Numerous positive correlations reflect the complicating interactions of the pathways and their components in the orofacial cleft morphopathogenesis.

Pulmonary decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) modified polyethylene terephthalate three-dimensional cell carriers regulate the proliferation and paracrine activity of mesenchymal stem cells

Introduction: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) possess a high degree of self-renewal capacity and in vitro multi-lineage differentiation potential. Decellularized materials have garnered considerable attention due to their elevated biocompatibility, reduced immunogenicity, excellent biodegradability, and the ability to partially mimic the in vivo microenvironment conducive to cell growth. To address the issue of mesenchymal stem cells losing their stem cell characteristics during two-dimensional (2D) cultivation, this study established three-dimensional cell carriers modified with lung decellularized extracellular matrix and assessed its impact on the life activities of mesenchymal stem cells. Methods: This study employed PET as a substrate material, grafting with polydopamine (PDA), and constructing a decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) coating on its surface, thus creating the PET/PDA/dECM three-dimensional (3D) composite carrier. Subsequently, material characterization of the cellular carriers was conducted, followed by co-culturing with human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells in vitro, aiming to investigate the material's impact on the proliferation and paracrine activity of mesenchymal stem cells. Results and Discussion: Material characterization demonstrated successful grafting of PDA and dECM materials, and it had complete hydrophilicity, high porosity, and excellent mechanical properties. The material was rich in various ECM proteins (collagen I, collagen IV , laminin, fibronectin, elastin), indicating good biocompatibility. In long-term in vitro cultivation (14 days) experiments, the PET/PDA/dECM three-dimensional composite carrier significantly enhanced adhesion and proliferation of human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (HUCMSCs), with a proliferation rate 1.9 times higher than that of cells cultured on tissue culture polystyrene (TCPS) at day 14. Furthermore, it effectively maintained the stem cell characteristics, expressing specific antigens for HUCMSCs. Through qPCR, Western blot, and ELISA experiments, the composite carrier markedly promoted the expression and secretion of key cell factors in HUCMSCs. These results demonstrate that the PET/PDA/dECM composite carrier holds great potential for scaling up MSCs' long-term in vitro cultivation and the production of paracrine factors.

Nuclear Entry of DNA and Transgene Expression in Dividing and Non-dividing Cells

Introduction

Plasmid DNA (pDNA) must be delivered into the nucleus for transgene expression in mammalian cells. The entry may happen passively during the nuclear envelope breakdown and reformation in dividing cells or actively through the nuclear pore complexes. The goal of this study was to investigate the relative importance of these two pathways for pDNA nuclear entry and subsequent gene expression.

Methods

To measure nuclear entry of pDNA encoding enhanced green florescence protein (EGFP) in electrotransfected cells, we developed a sensitive technique for quantitative analysis of pDNA in the nuclei, based on a hybridization probe for pDNA detection at the single molecule level and automatic image analysis. In matched experiments, we used an mRNA targeted hybridization probe to quantify reporter mRNA expression per cell, and flow cytometry to quantify expression of EGFP.

Results

We discovered two distinct patterns of pDNA distribution in the nuclei: punctate and diffuse, which were dominant in arrested and unarrested cells, respectively. The cell cycle arrest decreased diffuse pDNA and increased punctate pDNA. Its net effect was a decrease in the total intranuclear pDNA. Additionally, the cell cycle arrest increased the reporter mRNA synthesis but had no substantial impact on reporter protein expression.

Conclusion

Results from the study demonstrated that the efficient nuclear entry of pDNA during cell division did not necessarily lead to a high level of transgene expression. They also suggested that the punctate pDNA was more transcriptionally active than diffuse pDNA in the nuclei. These data will be useful in future studies for understanding mechanisms of nonviral gene delivery.

Temporal Expression of Hox Genes and Phox2b in the Rat Nucleus Ambiguus During Development: Implications on Laryngeal Innervation

OBJECTIVES

Recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) injury results in synkinetic reinnervation and vocal fold paralysis. Investigation of cues expressed in the developing brainstem that influence correct selective targeting of intrinsic laryngeal muscles may elucidate post-injury abnormalities contributing to non-functional reinnervation. Primary targets of interest were Hoxb1 and Hoxb2, members of the Hox family that create overlapping gradients in the developing brain, and their target Phox2b, a transcription factor necessary for cranial nerve branchio- and visceromotoneuron survival.

METHODS

Rat embryos at developmental days E14, E16, E18, and E20 (4 animals/age) were sectioned for RNA in situ hybridization to detect Hoxb1, Hoxb2, and Phox2b mRNA within the brainstem. Slides were costained with Islet1 antibody for identification of the nucleus ambiguus. Results were confirmed using immunohistochemistry. Sections were imaged on a confocal microscope. RNA and protein expressions were quantified using QuPath. Statistical analyses were performed using R.

RESULTS

Hoxb1, Hoxb2, and Phox2b expressions varied according to embryologic age. Hoxb1 and Hoxb2 expression peaked at E16, with significant decreases at E18 and E20 (one-way ANOVA p = 0.001 for both). Phox2b expression was highest at E14 and trended downward with increased embryologic age (one-way ANOVA p = 0.005).

CONCLUSION

Peak expression of Hoxb1 and Hoxb2 is observed at time points when the RLN arrives at the larynx and begins to branch toward individual muscles, positioning these gene products to be involved in cueing laryngeal motoneuron identity and target identification. Higher expression of Phox2b earlier in development suggests a role in laryngeal motoneuron formation.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

NA Laryngoscope, 133:3462-3471, 2023.

The immune checkpoint VISTA is associated with prognosis in patients with malignant uveal melanoma

Introduction

Uveal melanoma (UM) is a rare yet deadly tumor. It is known for its high metastatic potential, which makes it one of the most aggressive and lethal cancers. Recently, immune checkpoints such as Programmed cell Death protein-1 (PD1) and Cytotoxic T-Lymphocyte-Associated significantly increasing patient survival in multiple human cancers, especially cutaneous melanoma. However, patients with UMs were excluded from these studies because of their molecular characteristics, which tend to be widely different from those of cutaneous melanoma. This study aimed to analyze the expression of V domain Ig Suppressor T-cell Activation (VISTA), a novel immune checkpoint, to evaluate its prognosis significance and its correlation with PD1 and CTLA-4.

Methods

Evaluation of VISTA, CTLA-4, and PD1 expression was performed through TCGA database analysis and immunohistochemistry using two independent cohorts with primary malignant UM.

Results and discussion

Our results showed that VISTA expression was associated with tumor aggressiveness, T cell exhaustion, and the shortest median overall survival among patients. Surprisingly, PD1 protein expression was negative in all patients, whereas CTLA-4 expression was high in patients with advanced stages. Our findings suggest that VISTA may be a prognostic marker and an attractive treatment strategy for immunotherapy in patients with UM. Exploring its expression profile may predict response to immunotherapy and may lead to the improvement of precision therapy in malignant uveal melanoma patients.

Relationship between insulin and Netrin-1/DCC guidance cue pathway regulation in the prefrontal cortex of rodents exposed to prenatal dietary restriction

Fetal restriction (FR) alters insulin sensitivity, but it is unknown how the metabolic profile associated with restriction affects development of the dopamine (DA) system and DA-related behaviors. The Netrin-1/DCC guidance cue system participates in maturation of the mesocorticolimbic DA circuitry. Therefore, our objective was to identify if FR modifies Netrin-1/DCC receptor protein expression in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) at birth and mRNA in adulthood in rodent males. We used cultured HEK293 cells to assess if levels of miR-218, microRNA regulator of DCC, are sensitive to insulin. To assess this, pregnant dams were subjected to a 50% FR diet from gestational day 10 until birth. Medial PFC (mPFC) DCC/Netrin-1 protein expression was measured at P0 at baseline and Dcc/Netrin-1 mRNA levels were quantified in adults 15 min after a saline/insulin injection. miR-218 levels in HEK-293 cells were measured in response to insulin exposure. At P0, Netrin-1 levels are downregulated in FR animals in comparison to controls. In adult rodents, insulin administration results in an increase in Dcc mRNA levels in control but not FR rats. In HEK293 cells, there is a positive correlation between insulin concentration and miR-218 levels. Since miR-218 is a Dcc gene expression regulator and our in vitro results show that insulin regulates miR-218 levels, we suggest that FR-induced changes in insulin sensitivity could be affecting Dcc expression via miR-218, impacting DA system maturation and organization. As fetal adversity is linked to nonadaptive behaviors later in life, this may contribute to early identification of vulnerability to chronic diseases associated with fetal adversity.

Protein restriction impairs the response activation/responsivity of MAPK signaling pathway of hematopoietic stem cells

Protein restriction (PR) leads to bone marrow hypoplasia with changes in stromal cellularity components of the extracellular matrix in hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). However, the underlying signaling mechanisms are poorly understood. We hypothesize that PR impairs the HSC mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway response activation. Our aim is to evaluate the activation of MAPK and interleukin-3 (IL-3) proteins in HSC to explain PR-induced bone marrow hypoplasia, which causes altered proliferation and differentiation. C57BL/6 male mice were subjected to a low-protein diet (2% protein) or normoproteic (12% protein). PKC, PLCγ2, CaMKII, AKT, STAT3/5, ERK1/2, JNK, and p38d phosphorylation were evaluated by flow cytometry, and GATA1/2, PU.1, C/EBPα, NF-E2, and Ikz-3 genes (mRNAs) assessed by quantitative real-time-polymerase chain reaction. Pathway proteins, such as PLCγ2, JAK2, STAT3/5, PKC, and RAS do not respond to the IL-3 stimulus in PR, leading to lower activation of ERK1/2 and Ca2+ signaling pathways, consequently lowering the production of hematopoietic transcription factors. Colony forming units granulocyte-macrophage and colony forming units macrophage formation are impaired in PR even after being stimulated with IL-3. Long-term hematopoietic stem cells, short-term hematopoietic stem cells, granulocyte myeloid progenitor, and megakaryocyte-erythroid progenitor cells were significantly reduced in PR animals. This study shows for the first time that activation of MAPK pathway key proteins in HSCs is impaired in cases of PR. Several pathway proteins, such as PLCγ2, JAK2, STAT3, PKC, and RAS do not respond to IL-3 stimulation, leading to lower activation of extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase 1/2 and consequently lower production of hematopoietic transcription factors GATA1/2, PU.1, C/EBPa, NF-E2, and Ikz3. These changes result in a reduction in colony-forming units, proliferation, and differentiation, leading to hypocellularity.

Mathematical modeling identifies LAG3 and HAVCR2 as biomarkers of T cell exhaustion in melanoma

Cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) control tumors via lysis of antigen-presenting targets or through secretion of cytokines such as interferon-γ (IFNG), which inhibit tumor cell proliferation. Improved understanding of CTL interactions within solid tumors will aid the development of immunotherapeutic strategies against cancer. In this study, we take a systems biology approach to compare the importance of cytolytic versus IFNG-mediated cytostatic effects in a murine melanoma model (B16F10) and to dissect the contribution of immune checkpoints HAVCR2, LAG3, and PDCD1/CD274 to CTL exhaustion. We integrated multimodal data to inform an ordinary differential equation (ODE) model of CTL activities inside the tumor. Our model predicted that CTL cytotoxicity played only a minor role in tumor control relative to the cytostatic effects of IFNG. Furthermore, our analysis revealed that within B16F10 melanomas HAVCR2 and LAG3 better characterize the development of a dysfunctional CTL phenotype than does the PDCD1/CD274 axis.

LPCAT1 enhances the invasion and migration in gastric cancer: Based on computational biology methods and in vitro experiments

BACKGROUND AND AIM

The biological functions and clinical implications of lysophosphatidylcholine acyltransferase 1 (LPCAT1) remain unclarified in gastric cancer (GC). The aim of the current study was to explore the possible clinicopathological significance of LPCAT1 and its perspective mechanism in GC tissues.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The protein expression and mRNA levels of LPCAT1 were detected from in-house immunohistochemistry and public high-throughput RNA arrays and RNA sequencing. To have a comprehensive understanding of the clinical value of LPCAT1 in GC, all enrolled data were integrated to calculate the expression difference and standard mean difference (SMD). The biological mechanism of LPCAT1 in GC was confirmed by computational biology and in vitro experiments. Migration and invasion assays were also conducted to confirm the effect of LPCAT1 in GC.

RESULTS

Both protein and mRNA expression levels of LPCAT1 in GC were remarkably higher than those in noncancerous controls. Comprehensively, the SMD of LPCAT1 mRNA was 1.11 (95% CI = 0.86-1.36) in GC, and the summarized AUC was 0.85 based on 15 datasets containing 1727 cases of GC and 940 cases of non-GC controls. Moreover, LPCAT1 could accelerate the invasion and migration of GC by boosting the neutrophil degranulation pathway and disturbing the immune microenvironment.

CONCLUSION

An increased level of LPCAT1 may promote the progression of GC.

Quantification of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein expression from mRNA vaccines using isotope dilution mass spectrometry

The advent of mRNA vaccine technology has been vital in rapidly creating and manufacturing COVID-19 vaccines at an industrial scale. To continue to accelerate this leading vaccine technology, an accurate method is needed to quantify antigens produced by the transfection of cells with a mRNA vaccine product. This will allow monitoring of protein expression during mRNA vaccine development and provide information on how changes to vaccine components affects the expression of the desired antigen. Developing novel approaches that allow for high-throughput screening of vaccines to detect changes in antigen production in cell culture prior to in vivo studies could aid vaccine development. We have developed and optimized an isotope dilution mass spectrometry method to detect and quantify the spike protein expressed after transfection of baby hamster kidney cells with expired COVID-19 mRNA vaccines. Five peptides of the spike protein are simultaneously quantified and provide assurance that protein digestion in the region of the target peptides is complete since results between the five peptides had a relative standard deviation of less than 15 %. In addition, two housekeeping proteins, actin and GAPDH, are quantified in the same analytical run to account for any variation in cell growth within the experiment. IDMS allows a precise and accurate means to quantify protein expression by mammalian cells transfected with an mRNA vaccine.

Immunologic Profile of Severe COVID-19 Patients in Alborz Province, Iran

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has prompted researchers to look for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pathogenicity in depth. Immune system dysregulation was one of the major mechanisms in its pathogenesis. The evidence regarding the levels of interferons (IFNs) and pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in COVID-19 patients is not well-established. Objectives: Therefore, this study evaluated the expression level of type-I, II, III IFNs, along with interleukin-1 (IL-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-10 (IL-10), and FOXP3 genes in patients with severe COVID-19 to provide additional insights regarding the regulation of these cytokines during COVID-19 infection. Methods: Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were isolated from two groups, including severe COVID-19 patients and healthy controls. Ribonucleic acid was extracted to evaluate the expression level of IFN-a, IFN-b, IFN-g, IFN-la, IL-1, IL-6, IL-10, and FOXP3 genes using real-time polymerase chain reaction. The correlations between the expression levels of these genes were also assessed. Results: A total of 40 samples were divided into two groups, with each group consisting of 20 samples. When comparing the severe COVID-19 group to the controls, the expression levels of IFN-g, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), IL-6, and IL-10 genes were significantly higher in the severe COVID-19 group. The two groups had no significant differences in IFN-a, IFN-b, IFN-la, IL-1, and FOXP3 expression. The correlation analysis revealed a negative correlation between type I and type III IFNs (i.e., IFN-a and IFN-la) and pro-inflammatory cytokines (i.e., IL-1 and IL-10). Conclusions: This study suggests the possible upregulation of IFN-g, IL-6, IL-10, and TNF-α during SARS-CoV-2 pathogenicity. The preliminary findings of this study and those reported previously show that the levels of IFNs and pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines are not uniformly expressed among all COVID-19 patients and might differ as the disease progresses to the severe stage.

Relation between Selected Sleep Parameters, Depression, Anti-Tumor Necrosis Factor Therapy, and the Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Pathway in Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients often have sleep and mood disorders. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and proBDNF were shown to modulate interactions between the central nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract, possibly contributing to psychological issues. Anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) therapy in IBD can alter BDNF expression and further affect the brain-gut axis. Eighty IBD patients and 44 healthy controls (HCs) were enrolled and divided into subsets based on disease activity and condition (ulcerative colitis (UC)/Crohn's disease (CD)). Questionnaires evaluating sleep parameters and depression as well as venous blood were collected. The IBD group had a lower expression of BDNF mRNA, but higher proBDNF and BDNF protein concentration than HCs. The UC group had a higher BDNF protein concentration than the CD. BDNF protein was positively correlated to sleep efficiency in the IBD group. Depression severity was associated positively with BDNF mRNA and negatively with BDNF protein in the remission group. Anti-TNF therapy enhanced BDNF mRNA expression. The BDNF pathway might be disturbed in IBD, linking it to sleep disorders and depression. Systemic inflammation could be the main cause of this disruption. BDNF mRNA is a more reliable parameter than protein due to numerous post-translational modifications.

Profiling disease-selective drug targets: From proteomics to ligandomics

Despite advancements in omics technologies, including proteomics and transcriptomics, identification of therapeutic targets remains challenging. Ligandomics recently emerged as a unique technology of functional proteomics for global profiling of cell-binding protein ligands. When applied to diseased versus healthy vasculatures, comparative ligandomics systematically maps novel disease-restricted ligands that allow selective targeting of pathological but not physiological pathways, providing high efficacy with intrinsic safety. In this review, we discuss the potential of cellular ligands as therapeutic targets and summarize the development of ligandomics. We further compare the advantages and limitations of different omics technologies for drug target discovery and discuss target selection criteria to improve drug R&D success rates.

The life and times of endogenous opioid peptides: Updated understanding of synthesis, spatiotemporal dynamics, and the clinical impact in alcohol use disorder

The opioid G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) strongly modulate many of the central nervous system structures that contribute to neurological and psychiatric disorders including pain, major depressive disorder, and substance use disorders. To better treat these and related diseases, it is essential to understand the signaling of their endogenous ligands. In this review, we focus on what is known and unknown about the regulation of the over two dozen endogenous peptides with high affinity for one or more of the opioid receptors. We briefly describe which peptides are produced, with a particular focus on the recently proposed possible synthesis pathways for the endomorphins. Next, we describe examples of endogenous opioid peptide expression organization in several neural circuits and how they appear to be released from specific neural compartments that vary across brain regions. We discuss current knowledge regarding the strength of neural activity required to drive endogenous opioid peptide release, clues about how far peptides diffuse from release sites, and their extracellular lifetime after release. Finally, as a translational example, we discuss the mechanisms of action of naltrexone (NTX), which is used clinically to treat alcohol use disorder. NTX is a synthetic morphine analog that non-specifically antagonizes the action of most endogenous opioid peptides developed in the 1960s and FDA approved in the 1980s. We review recent studies clarifying the precise endogenous activity that NTX prevents. Together, the works described here highlight the challenges and opportunities the complex opioid system presents as a therapeutic target.

Effects of L-Chg10-Teixobactin on Viability, Proliferation, and Osteo/Odontogenic Differentiation of Stem Cells from Apical Papilla

INTRODUCTION

Intracanal medicament is one of the essential steps for ensuring success in regenerative endodontic procedures. _L-Chg₁₀-teixobactin is a novel antimicrobial agent that exhibited potent antibacterial and antibiofilm effects against Enterococcusfaecalis at low concentrations compared with ampicillin. At the same time, its cytotoxicity on dental stem cells has not been studied. This study aimed to investigate the effects of _L-Chg₁₀-teixobactin on the viability, proliferation, migration, and osteo/odontogenic differentiation of stem cells from apical papilla (SCAPs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

SCAPs isolated from immature human third molars were treated with various concentrations of _L-Chg₁₀-teixobactin, calcium hydroxide, and dimethyl sulfoxide. The viability and proliferation of SCAPs were assessed using the LIVE/DEAD Viability/Cytotoxicity Kit and Cell Counting Kit-8. A scratch wound healing test was used to evaluate the lateral migration capacity of SCAPs. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, calcium mineralization ability tests -ie, ALP staining and alizarin red S staining, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction were performed to assess the osteo /odontogenic differentiation of SCAPs.

RESULTS

The tested concentrations of _L-Chg₁₀-teixobactin (0.01, 0.02, and 0.03 mg/mL), 1 mg/mL calcium hydroxide, and 0.03% dimethyl sulfoxide had no significant cytotoxic effect on SCAPs at any time point (P > .05). Besides, there were no significant differences between the control and experimental groups in SCAPs' viability, proliferation, and migration. _L-Chg₁₀-teixobactin upregulated the gene expression of osteo/odontogenic markers in SCAPs, while no significant difference was found in the ALP activity and alizarin red S staining.

CONCLUSIONS

_L-Chg₁₀-teixobactin demonstrated excellent biocompatibility on SCAPs at concentrations from 0.01 to 0.03 mg/mL and potentially enhance the osteo/odontogenic differentiation of SCAPs; suggesting its promising role as root canal medicament for regenerative endodontic procedures.

The effect of dapagliflozin on myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in diabetic rats

The incidence of ischemic heart disease is 2-3 times higher in diabetic patients. However, the effect of dapagliflozin on ischemia-reperfusion myocardial injury in diabetic rats has not been studied. We examined the effects of dapagliflozin on myocardial IR injury in streptozotocin-nicotinamide-induced diabetic rats. Rats were divided into four groups (n = 7 in each group): control, control-dapagliflozin, diabetes, and diabetes-dapagliflozin. Dapagliflozin (1.5 mg/kg/day) was administered concomitantly in drinking water for 2 months. The hearts were perfused in a Langendorff's apparatus at 2 months and assessed before (baseline) and after myocardial IR for the following parameters: left ventricular developed pressure (LVDP), minimum and maximum rates of pressure change in the left ventricle (±dP/dt), endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthase (eNOS) and inducible NO synthase (iNOS) mRNA expressions, creatine kinase MB (CK-MB) and troponin imyocardial enzyme extravasation, and lactate dehydrogenase. The recovery of LVDP and ±dP/dt in diabetic rats was lower than that in controls but near normal after dapagliflozin treatment. Diabetic rats had decreased eNOS expression and increased iNOS expression at baseline and after IR, whereas dapagliflozin normalized these parameters after IR. Compared with controls, cardiac NOx levels were initially lower in diabetic patients but higher after IR. Baseline MDA levels were higher in diabetic rats after IR, whereas cardiac NOx levels decreased after treatment with dapagliflozin. Dapagliflozin protects the diabetic rat heart from ischemia-reperfusion myocardial injury by regulating the expression of eNOS and iNOS and inhibiting cardiac lipid peroxidation.

Elucidation of adipogenic differentiation regulatory mechanism in human maxillary/mandibular bone marrow-derived stem cells

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms that regulate the adipogenic differentiation of maxillary/mandibular bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MBMSCs).

DESIGN

MBMSCs and iliac bone marrow-derived MSCs (IBMSCs) were compared for osteogenic, chondrogenic, and adipogenic differentiation. Cell surface antigen expression was examined using flow cytometry, and stem cell marker expression was assessed using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Various adipogenic regulatory factors' expression was evaluated using real-time PCR and western blotting.

RESULTS

No significant differences in cell surface antigen profiles or stem cell marker expression in MBMSCs and IBMSCs were observed. MBMSCs and IBMSCs displayed similar osteogenic and chondrogenic potentials, whereas MBMSCs showed significantly lower adipogenic potentials than those shown by IBMSCs. Expression of CCAAT/enhancer binding protein β (C/EBPβ), C/EBPδ, early B-cell factor 1 (Ebf-1), and Krüppel-like factor 5 (KLF5), which are early adipogenic differentiation factors, was suppressed in MBMSCs compared to that in IBMSCs. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ) and C/EBPα, which play important roles in the terminal differentiation of adipocytes, was lower in MBMSCs than that in IBMSCs. Furthermore, the level of zinc finger protein 423 (Zfp423), which is involved in the commitment of undifferentiated MSCs to the adipocyte lineage, was significantly lower in MBMSCs than that in IBMSCs.

CONCLUSIONS

MBMSCs are negatively regulated in the commitment of undifferentiated MSCs to the adipocyte lineage (preadipocytes) as well as in the terminal differentiation of preadipocytes into mature adipocytes. These results may elucidate the site-specific characteristics of MBMSCs.

Fiber and Electrical Field Alignment Increases BDNF Expression in SH-SY5Y Cells following Electrical Stimulation

The limited expression of neurotrophic factors that can be included in neural tissue engineering scaffolds is insufficient for sustained neural regeneration. A localized and sustained method of introducing neurotrophic factors is required. We describe our attempt at inducing neuroblastoma cells to express trophic factors following electrical stimulation. Human SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells, cultured on polycaprolactone electrospun nanofibers, were electrically stimulated using a 100 mV/mm electric field. Nuclear morphology and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression were analyzed. Cells were classified based on the type of fiber orientation and the alignment of these fibers in relation to the electric field. Nuclear deformation was mainly influenced by fiber orientation rather than the electrical field. Similarly, fiber orientation also induced BDNF expression. Although electrical field alone had no significant effect on BDNF expression, combining fiber orientation with electrical field resulted in BDNF expression in cells that grew on electrospun fibers that were aligned perpendicular to the electrical field.

Purification and Isolation of Proteins from Hyaline Cartilage

Proteins from hyaline or articular cartilage can be isolated and purified using a series of chemical extraction steps and various identification techniques including mass spectrometry and immunoblotting. The isolation and purification of proteins from cartilage will facilitate the study of specific proteins and multimeric complexes of cartilage proteins to better understand their functions in normal healthy cartilage as well as pathological conditions of cartilage. Cartilage tissue engineering efforts rely on the comprehensive understanding of the composition of cartilage and the function of each of the protein constituents.

D1 receptor-expressing neurons in ventral tegmental area alleviate mouse anxiety-like behaviors via glutamatergic projection to lateral septum

Dopamine (DA) acts as a key regulator in controlling emotion, and dysfunction of DA signal has been implicated in the pathophysiology of some psychiatric disorders, including anxiety. Ventral tegmental area (VTA) is one of main regions with DA-producing neurons. VTA DAergic projections in mesolimbic brain regions play a crucial role in regulating anxiety-like behaviors, however, the function of DA signal within VTA in regulating emotion remains unclear. Here, we observe that pharmacological activation/inhibition of VTA D1 receptors will alleviate/aggravate mouse anxiety-like behaviors, and knockdown of VTA D1 receptor expression also exerts anxiogenic effect. With fluorescence in situ hybridization and electrophysiological recording, we find that D1 receptors are functionally expressed in VTA neurons. Silencing/activating VTA D1 neurons bidirectionally modulate mouse anxiety-like behaviors. Furthermore, knocking down D1 receptors in VTA DA and glutamate neurons elevates anxiety-like state, but in GABA neurons has the opposite effect. In addition, we identify the glutamatergic projection from VTA D1 neurons to lateral septum is mainly responsible for the anxiolytic effect induced by activating VTA D1 neurons. Thus, our study not only characterizes the functional expression of D1 receptors in VTA neurons, but also uncovers the pivotal role of DA signal within VTA in mediating anxiety-like behaviors.

Modulation of vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA) by Gelam honey in bilateral oophorectomized rats

INTRODUCTION

Vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA) is a common condition in post-menopausal women. Symptoms of VVA include dyspareunia, vaginal dryness, vaginal and/or vulvar itching, burning and soreness, dysuria and vaginal bleeding accompanying sexual activity. These symptoms are physiological responses to hypoestrogenicity, inducing atrophy of the vagina epithelia and sudden reduction in mucous production. Prevailing therapy for VVA is hormone replacement therapy (HRT), notably estrogen, progesterone or a combination of the two. However, using HRT is associated with an increased incidence of breast and endometrial cancer, venous thromboembolism in the lungs and legs, stroke and cardiovascular complications.

METHODS

This study evaluated Malaysian Gelam honey as a nutraceutical alternative to estrogen HRT (ERT) in alleviating VVA. A total of 24 female 8-weekold Sprague Dawley rats underwent bilateral oophorectomy. A minimum of 14 days elapsed from the time of surgery and administration of the first dose of Gelam honey to allow the female hormones to subside to a stable baseline and complete recovery from surgery. Vaginal tissues were harvested following a 2-week administration of Gelam honey, the harvested vagina tissue underwent immunohistochemistry (IHC) analysis for protein localization and qPCR for mRNA expression analysis.

RESULTS

Results indicated that Gelam honey administration had increased the localization of Aqp1, Aqp5, CFTR and Muc1 proteins in vaginal tissue compared to the menopause group. The effect of Gelam honey on the protein expressions is summarized as Aqp1>CFTR>Aqp5>Muc1.

DISCUSSION

Gene expression analysis reveals Gelam honey had no effect on Aqp1 and CFTR genes. Gelam honey had up-regulated Aqp5 gene expression. However, its expression was lower than in the ERT+Ovx group. Additionally, Gelam honey up-regulated Muc1 in the vagina, with an expression level higher than those observed either in the ERT+Ovx or SC groups. Gelam honey exhibits a weak estrogenic effect on the genes and proteins responsible for regulating water in the vaginal tissue (Aqp1, Aqp5 and CFTR). In contrast, Gelam honey exhibits a strong estrogenic ability in influencing gene and protein expression for the sialic acid Muc1. Muc1 is associated with mucous production at the vaginal epithelial layer. In conclusion, the protein and gene expression changes in the vagina by Gelam honey had reduced the occurrence of vaginal atrophy in surgically-induced menopause models.

Imaging of Gαq Proteins in Mouse and Human Organs and Tissues

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) transfer extracellular signals across cell membranes by activating intracellular heterotrimeric G proteins. Several studies suggested G proteins as novel drug targets for the treatment of complex diseases, e.g., asthma and cancer. Recently, we developed specific radiotracers, [³H]PSB-15900-FR and [³H]PSB-16254-YM, for the Gαq family of G proteins by tritiation of the macrocyclic natural products FR900359 (FR) and YM-254890 (YM). In the present study, we utilized these potent radioligands to perform autoradiography studies in tissues of healthy mice, mouse models of disease, and human tissues. Specific binding was high, while non-specific binding was extraordinarily low, giving nearly identical results for both radioligands. High expression levels of Gαq proteins were detected in healthy mouse organs showing the following rank order of potency: kidney > liver > brain > pancreas > lung > spleen, while expression in the heart was low. Organ sub-structures, e.g., of mouse brain and lung, were clearly distinguishable. Whereas an acute asthma model in mice did not result in altered Gαq protein expressions as compared to control animals, a cutaneous melanoma model displayed significantly increased expression in comparison to healthy skin. These results suggest the future development of Gαq-protein-binding radio-tracers as novel diagnostics.

Microarray Expression Profile of Myricetin-Treated THP-1 Macrophages Exhibits Alterations in Atherosclerosis-Related Regulator Molecules and LXR/RXR Pathway

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammation characterized by macrophage infiltration, lipid deposition, and arterial wall thickening. Prevention of atherosclerosis by nutraceuticals is gaining attention. Myricetin, a dietary flavonol, is claimed to possess anti-atherosclerosis properties. We studied myricetin's effect on the atherosclerosis-associated molecular mechanism. Cytotoxicity and proliferation testing to check the viability of myricetin-treated THP-1 macrophages and monocyte migration study in the presence and absence of myricetin was performed. The whole transcriptome analysis was conducted using the Affymetrix microarray platform. The Partek genomics suite for detecting differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and ingenuity pathway analysis was used to identify canonical pathways. Cytotoxicity assays exhibited no significant toxicity in THP-1 macrophages treated with different myricetin concentrations (10-200 μM). Genome-wide expression profiling revealed 58 DEGs (53 upregulated and 5 downregulated) in myricetin-treated THP-1 macrophages. Pathway analysis revealed inhibition of LXR/RXR activation and angiogenesis inhibition by thrombospondin-1 and activated phagocytosis in myricetin-treated THP-1 macrophages. The cytotoxicity assay shows myricetin as a safe phytochemical. In vitro and in silico pathway studies on THP-1 macrophages showed that they can inhibit THP-1 monocyte migration and alter the cholesterol efflux mediated via LXR/RXR signaling. Therefore, myricetin could help in the prevention of cell infiltration in atherosclerotic plaque with reduced risk of stroke or brain damage.

Rat and fish peripheral blood leukocytes respond distinctively to Anisakis pegreffii (Nematoda, Anisakidae) crude extract

Infective third-stage larvae (L3) of the marine nematode Anisakis pegreffii cause inflammation and clinical symptoms in humans, their accidental host, that subside and self-resolve in a couple of weeks after L3 die. To characterise the differences in an early immune response of a marine vs. terrestrial host, we stimulated peripheral blood leukocytes (PBLs) of fish (paratenic host) and rat (accidental, human-model host) with A. pegreffii crude extract and analysed PBL transcriptomes 1 and 12 h post-stimulation. Fish and rat PBLs differentially expressed 712 and 493 transcripts, respectively, between 1 and 12 h post-stimulation (false discovery rate, FDR <0.001, logFC >2). While there was a difference in the highest upregulated transcripts between two time-points, the same Gene Ontologies, biological processes (intracellular signal transduction, DNA-dependent transcription, and DNA-regulated regulation of transcription), and molecular functions (ATP and metal ion binding) were enriched in the two hosts, showing an incrementing dynamic between 1 and 12 h. This suggests that the two distinct hosts employ qualitatively different transcript cascades only to achieve the same effect, at least during an early innate immunity response. Activation of later immunity elements and/or a combination of other host's intrinsic conditions may contribute to the death of L3 in the terrestrial host.

Protein-Based Oncopanel as Addition to Target Sequencing in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma to Individualize Treatment Decisions

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a heterogeneous group of cancers and patients have limited therapy options if primary treatment fails. Therefore, additional information about the biology of the tumor is essential. Here we performed a feasibility study of concurrently applying two precision diagnostic tools in a consecutive series of HNSCC patients. We analyzed tumor samples of 31 patients using a genomic (oncomine) and a proteomic, immunohistochemical approach (oncopanel) and compared the result, also in the focus on their overlapping therapeutical targets. We found no strong correlation between the two approaches and observed a higher proportion of marker expression for the immunohistochemical panel. However, both panels show in our HNSCC cohort distinct patterns with druggable targets. The data suggest that both approaches complement one another and can be applied side-by-side to identify the best targets for the development of individual treatment options for HNSCC patients.

Regulatory Role of the RUNX2 Transcription Factor in Lung Cancer Apoptosis

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death globally. Numerous factors intervene in the onset and progression of lung tumors, among which the participation of lineage-specific transcription factors stands out. Several transcription factors important in embryonic development are abnormally expressed in adult tissues and thus participate in the activation of signaling pathways related to the acquisition of the tumor phenotype. RUNX2 is the transcription factor responsible for osteogenic differentiation in mammals. Current studies have confirmed that RUNX2 is closely related to the proliferation, invasion, and bone metastasis of multiple cancer types, such as osteosarcoma, breast cancer (BC), prostate cancer, gastric cancer, colorectal cancer, and lung cancer. Thus, the present study is aimed at evaluating the role of the RUNX2 transcription factor in inhibiting the apoptosis process. Loss-of-function assays using sh-RNA from lentiviral particles and coupled with Annexin/propidium iodide (PI) assays (flow cytometry), immunofluorescence, and quantitative PCR analysis of genes related to cell apoptosis (BAD, BAX, BCL2, BCL-XL, and MCL1) were performed. Silencing assays and Annexin/PI assays demonstrated that when RUNX2 was absent, the percentage of dead cells increased, and the expression levels of the BCL2, BCL-XL, and MCL1 genes were downregulated. Furthermore, to confirm whether the regulatory role of RUNX2 in the expression of these genes is related to its binding to the promoter region, we performed chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays. Here, we report that overexpression of the RUNX2 gene in lung cancer may be related to the inhibition of the intrinsic apoptosis pathway, specifically, through direct transcriptional regulation of the antiapoptotic gene BCL2 and indirect regulation of BCL-XL and MCL1.

Transplantation of Differentiated Tonsil-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Ameliorates Murine Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy via Autophagy Activation

BACKGROUND

Skeletal muscles play many important roles in the human body and any malfunction or disorder of the skeletal muscles can lead to a reduced quality of life. Some skeletal dysfunctions are acquired, such as sarcopenia but others are congenital. Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is one of the most common forms of hereditary muscular dystrophy and is caused by a deficiency of the protein, Dystrophin. Currently, there is no clear treatment for DMD, there are only methods that can alleviate the symptoms of the disease. Mesenchymal stem cells, including tonsil-derived mesenchymal stem cells (TMSCs) have been shown to differentiate into skeletal muscle cells (TMSC-myocyte) and can be one of the resources for the treatment of DMD. Skeletal muscle cell characteristics of TMSC-myocytes have been confirmed through changes in morphology and expression of skeletal muscle markers such as Myogenin, Myf6, and MYH families after differentiation.

MEOTHDS

Based on these characteristics, TMSC-myocytes have been transplanted into mdx mice, a mouse model of DMD, to investigate whether they can help improve the symptoms of DMD. The red fluorescent protein gene was transduced into TMSC (TMSC-R) for tracking transplanted cells.

RESULTS

Prior to transplantation (TP), it was confirmed whether TMSC-R-myocytes had the same differentiation potential as TMSC-myocytes. Increased expression of dystrophin and autophagy markers in the TP group compared with the sham group was confirmed in the gastrocnemius muscle 12 weeks after TP.

CONCLUSION

These results demonstrate muscle regeneration and functional recovery of mdx via autophagy activation following TMSC-myocyte TP.

Effect of Sex Steroids and PGF2α on the Expression of Their Receptors and Decorin in Bovine Caruncular Epithelial Cells in Early-Mid Pregnancy

Changes in the expression of various genes, including pregnancy-associated hormone receptors and extracellular matrix proteins, have been suggested to play a significant role in bovine placental development. This study aimed to examine the influence of sex steroids and PGF2α on decorin (DCN) expression in the epithelial cells of bovine caruncle in early−mid pregnancy in cows. The expression patterns of DCN, PTGFR, PGR and ESR1 were analyzed by RT-qPCR and Western blotting in primary caruncular epithelial cell cultures (PCECC) and placental tissue homogenates derived from the 2nd and 4th months of pregnancy. PCECC were found to express DCN, PTGFR, PGR and ESR1. The intensity of PGR staining was higher in cells derived from the 4th month of pregnancy (p < 0.05). The 17β-estradiol, progesterone and PGF2α have not been shown to affect DCN expression. PGF2α decreased PTGFR expression in cells derived from the 4th month of gestation (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the results of the present preliminary study showed that the expression of the PTGFR, ESR1, PGR and DCN in PCECC does not vary throughout early−mid pregnancy. Further studies should be carried out to observe the relationship between hormonal status and cellular adhesion to determine their importance for properly developing placentation and pregnancy in cows.

Targeting EZH2 Promotes Chemosensitivity of BCL-2 Inhibitor through Suppressing PI3K and c-KIT Signaling in Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is one of the most common hematological malignancies with high heterogeneity, characterized by a differentiating block at the early progenitor stage. The selective BCL-2 inhibitor, Venetoclax (Ven), has shown exciting clinical results in a certain group of AML patients. However, Ven alone is insufficient to reach an enduringly complete response, which leads to the concern of Ven resistance. Alternative combined therapies with Ven are demanded in AML. Here, we reported the synergistic effect and molecular mechanism of the enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) inhibitor DZNeP with Ven in AML cells. Results showed that the combination of DZNeP with Ven significantly induces cell proliferation arrest compared to single-drug control in AML cells and primary samples, and CalcuSyn analysis showed their significant synergy. The combination also significantly promotes apoptosis and increases the expression of pro-apoptotic proteins. The whole transcriptome analysis showed that phosphoinositide-3-kinase-interacting protein1 (PIK3IP1), the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling suppressor, is upregulated upon DZNeP treatment. Moreover, EZH2 is upregulated but PIK3IP1 is downregulated in 88 newly diagnosed AML cohorts compared to 70 healthy controls, and a higher expression of EZH2 is associated with poor outcomes in AML patients. Particularly, the combination of DZNeP with Ven dramatically eliminated CD117 (c-KIT) (+) AML blasts, suggesting the effect of the combination on tumor stem cells. In summary, our data indicated that DZNeP increases the sensitivity of Ven in AML by affecting PI3K and c-KIT signaling in AML. Our results also suggested that the therapeutic targeting of both EZH2 and BCL-2 provides a novel potential combined strategy against AML.

Comparison of interferon gamma release assay and CXCL9 gene expression assay for the detection of Mycobacterium bovis infection in African lions (Panthera leo)

Mycobacterium bovis (M. bovis) infection has been identified in both domestic and wild animals and may threaten the conservation of vulnerable species including African lions (Panthera leo). There is a need to develop accurate ante-mortem tools for detection of M. bovis infection in African big cat populations for wildlife management and disease surveillance. The aim of this study was to compare the performances of two immunological assays, the QuantiFERON®-TB Gold Plus (QFT) Mabtech Cat interferon gamma release assay (IGRA) and QFT CXCL9 gene expression assay (GEA), which have both shown diagnostic potential for M. bovis detection in African lions. Lion whole blood (n=47), stimulated using the QFT platform, was used for measuring antigen-specific CXCL9 expression and IFN-γ production and to assign M. bovis infection status. A subset (n=12) of mycobacterial culture-confirmed M. bovis infected and uninfected African lions was used to compare the agreement between the immunological diagnostic assays. There was no statistical difference between the proportions of test positive African lions tested by the QFT Mabtech Cat IGRA compared to the QFT CXCL9 GEA. There was also a moderate association between immunological diagnostic assays when numerical results were compared. The majority of lions had the same diagnostic outcome using the paired assays. Although the QFT Mabtech Cat IGRA provides a more standardized, commercially available, and cost-effective test compared to QFT CXCL9 GEA, using both assays to categorize M. bovis infection status in lions will increase confidence in results.

The Effects of Six Weeks of Endurance Training and CGRP Inhibition on Nrf2 and AKT Expression in the Hippocampal Tissue of Male Wistar Rats

Purpose

To study the effects of a six-week endurance training protocol and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) inhibition on the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and protein kinase B (PKB) or AKT expression in the hippocampal tissue of male Wistar rats. Main Methods. Building on a controlled experimental design with a posttest, 28 healthy Wistar male rats were randomly assigned to four groups (n = 7 per group), including control, control+CGRP inhibition, endurance training, and endurance training+CGRP inhibition groups. The training groups were trained for six weeks. Rats in the CGRP inhibition group received CGRP receptor antagonist daily (0.25 mg/kg) via intravenous (IV) injection. The Nrf2 and AKT (PKB) expression was measured using the real-time PCR technique.

Results

In the endurance training group, Nrf2 expression in the hippocampal tissue was increased significantly more than in other groups (P < 0.05). There was also a significant increase in the AKT expression in the endurance training group compared to the control group (P = 0.048) and in the endurance training+CGRP inhibition compared to the control group (P = 0.012). In addition, there was no significant relationship between AKT (PKB) and Nrf2 (r = −0.27, n = 28, P = 0.16).

Conclusion

Endurance training alone has been able to increase Nrf2 and AKT (PKB) mRNA levels in the hippocampal tissue, considering that endurance training had no significant effect on AKT and Nrf2 expression after adding to CGRP inhibition.

A novel missense variant in CEACAM16 gene causes autosomal dominant nonsyndromic hearing loss

Aim

Autosomal dominant non‐syndromic hearing loss is a common sensorineural disorder with extremely high genetic heterogeneity. CEA antigen‐related cell adhesion molecule 16(CEACAM16)is a secreted glycoprotein encoded by the CEACAM16 gene. Mutations in CEACAM16 lead to autosomal dominant non‐syndromic hearing loss in humans, due defects in the tectorial membrane of the inner ear. Here we reported a novel missense variant in CEACAM16 gene causes autosomal dominant non‐syndromic hearing loss.

Material and methods

A four‐generation Chinese family affected by late‐onset and progressive hearing loss was enrolled in this study. The proband was analyzed by targeted next‐generation sequencing and bioinformatic analysis. And in vitro experiments were performed in overexpressed transfected HEK293T cells to investigate the pathogenesis of the mutant protein.

Results

We identified a novel missense variant in the CEACAM16 gene c.763A>G; (p.Arg255Gly) as causing autosomal dominant non‐syndromic hearing loss in the Chinese family. Using Western blot analysis, ELISA, and immunofluorescence we found increased expression level of the secreted mutant CEACAM16 protein, both intracellularly and extracellularly, compared with wild type CEACAM16 protein.

Conclusion

Our study showed that the p.Arg255Gly variant leads to increased secretion of mutant CEACAM16 protein, with potential deleterious effect to the function of the protein. Our findings expand the mutation spectrum of CEACAM16, and further the understanding CEACAM16 function and implications in disease.

High Expression of PRNP Predicts Poor Prognosis in Korean Patients with Gastric Cancer

Gastric cancer (GC) has the highest occurrence and fourth-highest mortality rate of all cancers in Korea. Although survival rates are improving with the development of diagnosis and treatment methods, the five-year survival rate for stage 4 GC in Korea remains <10%. Therefore, it is important to identify candidate prognostic factors for predicting poor prognosis. PRNP is a gene encoding the prion protein PrP, which has been noted for its role in the nervous system and is known to be upregulated in various cancers and associated with both cell proliferation and metastasis. However, the value of PRNP as a prognostic factor for Korean GC patients remains unclear. Here, we analyzed the relationship between PRNP expression and survival in three independent datasets for Korean patients with GC as well as the TCGA-STAD dataset. Survival analysis indicates that high levels of PRNP expression are associated with poor overall survival of patients with GC. Gene set enrichment analysis showed that PRNP is associated with epithelial mesenchymal transition and Hedgehog signaling. In addition, proliferation of GC cell lines was inhibited after siRNA-mediated knockdown of PRNP. In conclusion, our study suggests a potential role for PRNP as a candidate prognostic factor for patients with GC.

Genome-Wide Analysis of the GDSL Genes in Pecan (Carya illinoensis K. Koch): Phylogeny, Structure, Promoter Cis-Elements, Co-Expression Networks, and Response to Salt Stresses

The Gly-Asp-Ser-Leu (GDSL)-lipase family is a large subfamily of lipolytic enzymes that plays an important role in plant growth and defense against environmental stress. However, little is known about their function in pecans (Carya illinoensis K. Koch). In this study, 87 CilGDSLs were identified and divided into 2 groups and 12 subgroups using phylogenetic analysis; members of the same sub-branch had conserved gene structure and motif composition. The majority of the genes had four introns and were composed of an α-helix and a β-strand. Subcellular localization analysis revealed that these genes were localized in the extracellular matrix, chloroplasts, cytoplasm, nucleus, vacuole, and endoplasmic reticulum, and were validated by transient expression in tobacco mesophyll cells. Furthermore, the analysis of the promoter cis-elements for the CilGDSLs revealed the presence of plant anaerobic induction regulatory, abscisic acid response, light response elements, jasmonic acid (JA) response elements, etc. The qRT-PCR analysis results in “Pawnee” with salt treatment showed that the CilGDSL42.93 (leaf) and CilGDSL39.88 (root) were highly expressed in different tissues. After salt stress treatment, isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ) analysis revealed the presence of a total of ten GDSL proteins. Moreover, the weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) showed that one set of co-expressed genes (module), primarily CilGDSL41.11, CilGDSL39.49, CilGDSL34.85, and CilGDSL41.01, was significantly associated with salt stress in leaf. In short, some of them were shown to be involved in plant defense against salt stress in this study.

Leptin modulated microRNA-628-5p targets Jagged-1 and inhibits prostate cancer hallmarks

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are single-stranded non-coding RNA molecules that play a regulatory role in gene expression and cancer cell signaling. We previously identified miR-628-5p (miR-628) as a potential biomarker in serum samples from men with prostate cancer (PCa) (Srivastava et al. in Tumour Biol 35:4867–4873, 10.1007/s13277-014-1638-1, 2014). This study examined the detailed cellular phenotypes and pathways regulated by miR-628 in PCa cells. Since obesity is a significant risk factor for PCa, and there is a correlation between levels of the obesity-associated hormone leptin and PCa development, here we investigated the functional relationship between leptin and miR-628 regulation in PCa. We demonstrated that exposure to leptin downregulated the expression of miR-628 and increased cell proliferation/migration in PCa cells. We next studied the effects on cancer-related phenotypes in PCa cells after altering miR-628 expression levels. Enforced expression of miR-628 in PCa cells inhibited cell proliferation, reduced PCa cell survival/migration/invasion/spheroid formation, and decreased markers of cell stemness. Mechanistically, miR-628 binds with the JAG1-3′UTR and inhibits the expression of Jagged-1 (JAG1). JAG1 inhibition by miR-628 downregulated Notch signaling, decreased the expression of Snail/Slug, and modulated epithelial-mesenchymal transition and invasiveness in PC3 cells. Furthermore, expression of miR-628 in PCa cells increased sensitivity towards the drugs enzalutamide and docetaxel by induction of cell apoptosis. Collectively our data suggest that miR-628 is a key regulator of PCa carcinogenesis and is modulated by leptin, offering a novel therapeutic opportunity to inhibit the growth of advanced PCa.

A role for the calcium-sensing receptor in the expression of inflammatory mediators in LPS-treated human dental pulp cells

The aim of this study is to investigate the role of calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) in the expression of inflammatory mediators of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated human dental pulp cells (hDPCs). The expression profile of CaSR in LPS-simulated hDPCs was detected using immunofluorescence, real time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR), and Western blot analyses. Then, its regulatory effects on the expression of specific inflammatory mediators such as interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2)-derived prostaglandin E2 (PGE₂), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and IL-10 were determined by RT-qPCR and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). LPS significantly downregulated the gene expression of CaSR, but upregulated its protein expression level in hDPCs. Treatments by CaSR agonist R568 or its antagonist Calhex231, and their combinations with protein kinase B (AKT) inhibitor LY294002 showed obvious effects on the expression of selected inflammatory mediators in a time-dependent manner. Meanwhile, an opposite direction was found between the action of R568 and Calhex231, as well as the expression of the pro- (IL-1β, IL-6, COX2-derived PGE₂, and TNF-α) and anti-inflammatory (IL-10) mediators. The results provide the first evidence that CaSR-phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K)-AKT-signaling pathway is involved in the release of inflammatory mediators in LPS-treated hDPCs, suggesting that the activation or blockade of CaSR may provide a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of pulp inflammatory diseases.

Multiple optimizations of recombinant plasmid for improving expression of Hepatitis B core antigen in Escherichia coli

Hepatitis B core antigen (HBcAg) can self-assemble into virus-like particles (VLPs) when expressed in Escherichia coli. We optimized the different of the expression plasmid pBV220, including the ribosome bind site (RBS), spacer region, promoter and replication origin (ori), as well as the hbc gene dosage, to enhance HBcAg transcription and translation in E. coli. The optimized construct with a customized RBS6, 6 nt spacer, T7 promoter and pUCori significantly increased the levels of HBc36GFP fusion protein to 3.4-folds compared to the control. Thereafter, we substituted hbc36gfp gene with different copies of the hbc gene and tested the effects of gene dosage on HBcAg expression. The HBcAg-VLPs yield obtained using an engineered strain with three copies of hbc was 842.1 ± 46.8 μg/mL, which was 2.2-folds higher compared to that in the control strain. Thus, our study provides a simple and effective strategy for improving HBcAg expression in E. coli. Since the HBcAg-VLPs are promising carriers for presenting foreign antigen epitopes, an in vitro expression system that can generate high levels of HBcAg-VLPs can serve as a promising tool for developing novel HBV vaccines and drugs.

Expression of the hedgehog signaling pathway and the effect of inhibition at the level of Smoothened in canine osteosarcoma cell lines

Osteosarcoma (OSA) is the most common malignant bone cancer in dogs. Canine and human OSA share several features, including tumor environments, response to traditional treatment, and several molecular pathways. Hedgehog (Hh) signaling is known to contribute to tumorigenesis and progression of various cancers, including human OSA. This study aimed to identify the role of the Hh signaling pathway in canine OSA cell lines, including Abrams, D17, and Moresco, focusing on the signal transducer Smoothened (SMO). mRNA and protein levels of Hh pathway components, including SHH, IHH, SMO, and PTCH1, were aberrant in all examined OSA cell lines compared with canine osteoblast cells. The SMO inhibitor cyclopamine significantly decreased cell viability and colony-forming ability in the canine OSA cell lines in a dose-dependent manner. Moresco cells, which expressed the highest level of SMO protein, were the most sensitive to the anticancer effect of cyclopamine among the three canine OSA cell lines tested. Hh downstream target gene and protein expression in canine OSA cell lines were downregulated after cyclopamine treatment. In addition, cyclopamine significantly increased apoptotic cell death in Abrams and Moresco cells. The findings that Hh/SMO is activated in canine OSA cell lines and cyclopamine suppresses OSA cell survival via inhibition of SMO suggest that the Hh/SMO signaling pathway might be a novel therapeutic target for canine OSA. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

ACE2 and TMPRSS2 Immunolocalization and COVID-19-Related Thyroid Disorder

Thyroid dysfunction has been reported to be an extrapulmonary symptom of COVID-19. It is important to identify the tissue subset that expresses angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2), which are essential for host infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), in order to understand the viral pathogenesis of COVID-19-related thyroid dysfunction. We investigated the expression and distribution of ACE2- and TMPRSS2-expressing cells in the thyroid gland. RT-PCR and Western blotting were performed on human thyroid follicular cells (Nthy-ori3-1) and rat thyroid tissues to detect the expression levels of ACE and TMPRSS2 mRNA and proteins. We also analyzed the expression patterns of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in 9 Sprague-Dawley rats and 15 human thyroid tissues, including 5 normal, 5 with Hashimoto's thyroiditis, and 5 with Graves' disease, by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and immunofluorescence. Both ACE2 and TMPRSS2 mRNAs and proteins were detected in the thyroid tissue. However, ACE2 and TMPRSS2 proteins were not expressed in thyroid follicular cells. In IHC, ACE2 and TMPRSS2 were not stained in the follicular cells. No cells co-expressed ACE2 and TMPRSS2. ACE2 was expressed in pericytes between follicles, and TMPRSS2 was mainly stained in the colloid inside the follicle. There was no difference in expression between the normal thyroid, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, and Graves' disease. SARS-CoV-2 does not directly invade the thyroid follicular cells. Whether SARS-CoV-2 infection of pericytes can affect COVID-19-related thyroid dysfunction warrants further study.

Protein detection and localization of the non-selective cation channel TRPC6 in the human heart

Due to longer lifespans in societies in industrialized countries, cardiovascular diseases are becoming increasingly important for medical research. It has already been shown that the cell membrane-bound, non-selective TRPC6 ion channel is important in the pathogenesis of heart diseases. Among other things, it is permeable to calcium ion, which plays a critical role in cardiac contraction and relaxation. The TRPC6 ion channel is a promising therapeutic target in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. A deeper understanding of the physiological and pathophysiological role as well as the localization of TRPC6 in human cardiac tissue is the basis for new drug development. Although the TRPC6 channel has been detected in animal studies, at the mRNA level in humans, and sparse TRPC6 protein has been detected in humans, there are no systematic studies of TRPC6 protein detection in the human heart. For the first time, TRPC6 ion channel protein was detected histologically in human heart tissue from body donors in different structures, localizations, and histological layers - particularly in cardiomyocytes and intramuscular arterioles - by immunohistochemistry, just as TRPC6 expression has already been shown in animal models of the heart by other research groups. In the sense of the translational concept, this indicates a possible transferability of research results from animal models to humans.

Analysis of serum and gene expression profile of cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α and TGF-β1) in chronic hepatitis C virus infection

Background

Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is one of the major causes of liver cirrhosis and liver carcinoma. Studies have indicated that an imbalance of cytokine activities could contribute to the pathogenesis of chronic HCV infection. This study aimed to investigate serum levels and gene expression of cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α and TGF-β1) in chronic HCV infection among Malay male subjects.

Methods

Thirty-nine subjects were enrolled from various health clinics in Kelantan, Malaysia, and divided into two groups: patients with chronic HCV infection (HP) and healthy control (HS). The serum cytokines IL-6, TNF-a-were measured using Luminex assay, and serum TGF-β1 was measured by ELISA. The mRNA gene expression for IL-6, TNF-α and TGF-β1 was measured by real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).

Results

There were statistically significant differences in the mean serum levels of IL-6, and TGF-β1 in HP compared to HS group (p = 0.0180 and p = 0.0005, respectively). There was no significant difference in the mean serum level of TNF-α in HP compared to HS group. The gene expression for the studied cytokines showed no significant differences in HP compared to HS group.

Conclusion

Serum IL-6 was significantly associated with chronic HCV infection.