DEK-targeting aptamer DTA-64 attenuates bronchial EMT-mediated airway remodelling by suppressing TGF-β1/Smad, MAPK and PI3K signalling pathway in asthma

Pharmacological effects and mechanisms of danlong oral liquid in asthma airway remodeling: Insights from serum medicinal chemistry, network pharmacology, and experimental validation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Danlong oral liquid (DLOL) is a traditional Chinese proprietary medicine commonly used to treat chronic respiratory diseases, including bronchial asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. However, the therapeutic effects and pharmacological mechanisms of DLOL in improving airway remodeling remain unclear.

AIMS OF THE STUDY

This study utilizes in vivo and in vitro experiments, serum pharmacological analysis, and network-based pharmacology approaches to investigate the effects and mechanisms of DLOL on airway remodeling and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in asthma.

METHODS

An asthma model was established through ovalbumins (OVA) sensitization and challenge in BALB/c mice to observe the effects of DLOL on airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR), inflammation, remodeling, and molecular markers of EMT. The absorbed chemical prototype constituents of DLOL were analyzed using Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (UPLC-MS), and targets for asthma and airway remodeling were predicted using a network pharmacology approach. Key biological processes and signaling pathways were analyzed. Additionally, TGF-β1 was used to induce EMT in BEAS-2B cells. TGF-β1 and DLOL-containing serum were screened to determine the optimal time and concentration in BEAS-2B cells using CCK8 assays. The cell scratch assay was used to assess cell migration, while immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry were employed to evaluate protein expression levels.

RESULTS

DLOL improved AHR in asthmatic mice, reduced inflammatory cell infiltration in lung tissue, decreased airway wall and smooth muscle thickness, and reduced collagen deposition. It also down-regulated mesenchymal markers (N-cadherin, vimentin, α-SMA) and key remodeling factors (TGF-β1, MMP9), while up-regulating the epithelial marker E-cadherin. A total of 17 absorbed chemical prototype constituents were identified, predicting 54 core targets involved in airway remodeling. Following Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis, the key targets were found to be associated with the regulation of cell migration, cell-cell adhesion, and cell adhesion molecular processes, with the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway likely playing a critical role. Cellular experiments confirmed that DLOL-containing serum inhibited TGF-β1-induced EMT in BEAS-2B cells and suppressed the phosphorylation of Akt and GSK-3β.

CONCLUSION

This study identifies, for the first time, the serum medicinal chemistry of DLOL using UPLC-MS. Combining network pharmacology, in vivo and in vitro experiments, it elucidates the effects and potential mechanisms of the drug on airway remodeling and EMT. DLOL may offer a novel therapeutic approach for asthma-related airway remodeling.

Deficiency of DEK proto-oncogene alleviates allergic rhinitis by inhibiting RhoA/Ezrin-mediated mitochondrial fission

BACKGROUND

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a kind of immune disease mediated by IgE. We are intrigued by the potential role of DEK proto-oncogene (DEK) in inflammation-related diseases. We investigated the effects and mechanisms of DEK in treating AR, aiming to identify potential new treatment targets for AR.

METHODS

The AR mouse model was induced by house dust mite (HDM) (1 mg/mL). HNEpCs stimulated by HDM (1 mg/mL) were pretreated for 24 h with or without DEK lentivirus. The effect of DEK knockout or knockdown on AR was evaluated in vitro and in vivo using western blotting, ELISA, flow cytometry, real-time quantitative PCR, immunohistochemistry, HE staining, PAS staining, Diff staining, and immunofluorescence.

RESULTS

After DEK knockdown, the inflammatory response of AR mice was reduced. In addition, DEK deletion mitigated nasal tissue damage and mitochondrial division. Our further studies showed that DEK deletion or inhibition led to the down-regulation of RhoA activity and decreased phosphorylation of Ezrin and Drp1 proteins, and inhibited mitochondrial division. Overall, DEK deficiency mitigated AR by down-regulating RhoA/Ezrin/Drp1 pathway activity.

CONCLUSION

DEK alleviates AR through RhoA/Ezrin/Drp1 signaling pathway, which provides a new perspective for developing improved therapies and understanding the pathogenesis of AR.

Turmeric extract alleviates airway inflammation via oxidative stress-driven MAPKs/MMPs pathway

Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) extract (CLE) has been shown to elicit several pharmacological properties and is widely used in Asian traditional medicine. Herein, we assessed the impact of CLE on airway inflammation in BALB/c mice and A549 cells to clarify the underlying mechanism. An asthmatic mouse model was established by administering ovalbumin (OVA). CLE (100 or 300 mg/kg/day) was orally administered daily from days 18 to 23, with dexamethasone (3 mg/kg/day) used as the positive control. Human airway epithelial cells, A549, were stimulated using recombinant tumor necrosis factor-α. The CLE100 and CLE400 groups exhibited a significant downregulation in eosinophil counts, cytokine levels, and immunoglobulin-E levels. Moreover, CLE administration dose-dependently suppressed oxidative stress and airway inflammation in the lung tissue. CLE administration inhibited the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and the expression and activity of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9. In vitro, CLE treatment reduced mRNA levels of proinflammatory cytokines, MAPK phosphorylation, and the expression and activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9. Additionally, 50 µg/mL CLE and 2.5 µg/mL curcumin showed similar anti-inflammatory effects. Collectively, our findings revealed that CLE could suppress airway inflammation in asthmatic mice and A549 cells via oxidative stress-driven MAPK/MMPs signaling, suggesting that CLE could be developed as a potential treatment option for patients with asthma.

MAP3K19 Promotes the Progression of Tuberculosis-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis Through Activation of the TGF-β/Smad2 Signaling Pathway

Tuberculosis-induced pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a chronic, irreversible interstitial lung disease, which severely affects lung ventilation and air exchange, leading to respiratory distress, impaired lung function, and ultimately death. As previously reported, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and fibrosis in type II alveolar epithelial cells (AEC II) are two critical processes that contributes to the initiation and progression of tuberculosis-related PF, but the underlying pathological mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, through performing Real-Time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR), Western blot, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence staining assay, we confirmed that the expression levels of EMT and fibrosis-related biomarkers were significantly increased in lung tissues with tuberculosis-associated PF in vivo and Mycobacterium bovis Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) strain-infected AEC II cells in vitro. Besides, we noticed that the mitogen-activated protein kinase 19 (MAP3K19) was aberrantly overexpressed in PF models, and silencing of MAP3K19 significantly reduced the expression levels of fibronectin, collagen type I, and alpha-smooth muscle actin to decrease fibrosis, and upregulated E-cadherin and downregulated vimentin to suppress EMT in BCG-treated AEC II cells. Then, we uncovered the underlying mechanisms and found that BCG synergized with MAP3K19 to activate the pro-inflammatory transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β)/Smad2 signal pathway in AEC II cells, and BCG-induced EMT process and fibrosis in AEC II cells were all abrogated by co-treating cells with TGF-β/Smad2 signal pathway inhibitor LY2109761. In summary, our results uncovered the underlying mechanisms by which the MAP3K19/TGF-β/Smad2 signaling pathway regulated EMT and fibrotic phenotypes of AEC II cells to facilitate the development of tuberculosis-associated PF, and these findings will provide new ideas and biomarkers to ameliorate tuberculosis-induced PF in clinic.

Lentinan attenuates allergic airway inflammation and epithelial barrier dysfunction in asthma via inhibition of the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB pathway

BACKGROUND

Allergic asthma has been regarded as an inflammatory disease mediated by type 2 immunity. The treatment of progressive forms of asthma remains unsatisfactory despite substantial progress in drug development. Lentinan (LTN), a specific polysaccharide derived from Lentinus edodes, exhibits anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory functions. Nevertheless, the effect and underlying mechanisms of Lentinan on asthma remain unclear.

PURPOSE

This research investigated the regulatory role of Lentinan on allergic airway inflammation and epithelial barrier dysfunction in HDM (house dust mite)-induced asthma.

STUDY DESIGN

HDM-induced C57BL/6 mice received different dosages of Lentinan through intraperitoneal injections, to observe the effect of Lentinan against allergic airway inflammation and epithelial barrier dysfunction in asthma.

METHODS

Mice were intranasally administered HDM extract solution on days 0, 1, 2 and on days 8 to 12, establishing the allergic asthma model. On days 8 to 12, mice were intraperitoneally administered varying doses of Lentinan (5/10/20mg/kg) 1h before HDM challenge. On day 14, samples were harvested for analysis. Cell counting, flow cytometry, ELISA, HE and PAS staining, IF staining, western blotting, RT-PCR, and bioinformatic analysis were conducted to delve into the underlying functions and mechanisms of Lentinan in asthma.

RESULTS

Our study revealed that the treatment of Lentinan significantly ameliorated allergic airway inflammation and improved epithelial barrier dysfunction in experimental mice. Following Lentinan treatment, there was a significant reduction in eosinophil counts, accompanied by a diminished presence of type 2 cytokines. Reversal of epithelial barrier dysfunction after treatment was also observed. The therapeutic mechanism involved suppression of the PI3K/AKT/ NF-κB pathway.

CONCLUSION

Our research illuminated the protective role of Lentinan in allergic airway inflammation and impaired epithelial barrier, suggesting LTN could be an innovative and promising candidate for asthma treatment.

Immunologic aspects of asthma: from molecular mechanisms to disease pathophysiology and clinical translation

In the present review, we focused on recent translational and clinical discoveries in asthma immunology, facilitating phenotyping and stratified or personalized interventions for patients with this condition. The immune processes behind chronic inflammation in asthma exhibit marked heterogeneity, with diverse phenotypes defining discernible features and endotypes illuminating the underlying molecular mechanisms. In particular, two primary endotypes of asthma have been identified: "type 2-high," characterized by increased eosinophil levels in the airways and sputum of patients, and "type 2-low," distinguished by increased neutrophils or a pauci-granulocytic profile. Our review encompasses significant advances in both innate and adaptive immunities, with emphasis on the key cellular and molecular mediators, and delves into innovative biological and targeted therapies for all the asthma endotypes. Recognizing that the immunopathology of asthma is dynamic and continuous, exhibiting spatial and temporal variabilities, is the central theme of this review. This complexity is underscored through the innumerable interactions involved, rather than being driven by a single predominant factor. Integrated efforts to improve our understanding of the pathophysiological characteristics of asthma indicate a trend toward an approach based on disease biology, encompassing the combined examination of the clinical, cellular, and molecular dimensions of the disease to more accurately correlate clinical traits with specific disease mechanisms.

Eosinophil peroxidase promotes bronchial epithelial cells to secrete asthma-related factors and induces the early stage of airway remodeling

Asthma is a heterogeneous disease characterized by chronic airway inflammation, reversible airflow limitation, and airway remodeling. Eosinophil peroxidase (EPX) is the most abundant secondary granule protein unique to activated eosinophils. In this study, we aimed to illustrate the effect of EPX on the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in BEAS-2B cells. Our research found that both EPX and ADAM33 were negatively correlated with FEV1/FVC and FEV1%pred, and positively correlated with IL-5 levels. Asthma patients had relatively higher levels of ADAM33 and EPX compared to the healthy control group. The expression of TSLP, TGF-β1 and ADAM33 in the EPX intervention group was significantly higher. Moreover, EPX could promote the proliferation, migration and EMT of BEAS-2B cells, and the effect of EPX on various factors was significantly improved by the PI3K inhibitor LY294002. The findings from this study could potentially offer a novel therapeutic target for addressing airway remodeling in bronchial asthma, particularly focusing on EMT.

miR-21-5p Modulates Airway Inflammation and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Processes in a Mouse Model of Combined Allergic Rhinitis and Asthma Syndrome

INTRODUCTION

Combined allergic rhinitis and asthma syndrome (CARAS) is a concurrent allergic symptom of diseases of allergic rhinitis and asthma. However, the mechanism of CARAS remains unclear. The study aimed to investigate the impact of microRNA-21 (miR-21) on CARAS via targeting poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1) and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT pathways.

METHODS

The levels of miR-21-5p and PARP-1 in CARAS patients were detected by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). An ovalbumin-sensitized mouse model of CARAS was established. And knock down of miR-21-5p was constructed by intranasally administering with miR-21-5p shRNA-encoding adeno-associated virus vector. Airway resistance and airway inflammatory response were detected. ELISA was used to evaluate IL-4/IL-5/IL-13 levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). Expression levels of E-cadherin, fibronectin, and α-SMA were determined using Western blotting. The levels of PARP-1 and the activation of PI3K/AKT were assayed.

RESULTS

Downregulation of miR-21-5p relieved pathophysiological symptoms of asthma including airway hyperreactivity and inflammatory cell infiltration. Downregulation of miR-21-5p significantly reduced the levels of IL4, IL-5, and IL-13 in BALF. Additionally, downregulation of miR-21-5p inhibited the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process in CARAS mice. Furthermore, miR-21-5p regulated PARP-1 and was involved in PI3K/AKT activation in CARAS mice.

CONCLUSION

Downregulation of miR-21-5p ameliorated CARAS-associated lung injury by alleviating airway inflammation, inhibiting the EMT process, and regulating PARP-1/PI3K/AKT in a mouse model of CARAS.

Stigmasterol alleviates airway inflammation in OVA-induced asthmatic mice via inhibiting the TGF-β1/Smad2 and IL-17A signaling pathways

Stigmasterol is a common dietary phytosterol with high nutritional value and physiological activity. In this study, we evaluated the effects of stigmasterol on inflammatory cytokines and the TGF-β1/Smad2 and IL-17A signaling pathway in an ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthma mouse model. Stigmasterol treatment improved airway remodeling. In addition, it significantly attenuated the symptoms of asthma attacks, reduced the number of macrophages, lymphocytes, neutrophils, and eosinophils in BALF and inflammatory cytokines, including IL-1β, IL-5, IL-6, and IL-13. It further decreased the level of IL-17A in BALF, serum and spleen. Spleen single-cell suspension analysis via flow cytometry showed that IL-17A level was consistent with the results obtained in BALF, serum and spleen. Stigmasterol decreased the protein expression levels of TGF-β, p-Smad2 and IL-17A in the spleen, by increasing the protein expression level of IL-10. After 24 h of co-culture of TGF-β, IL-6 and stigmasterol, the level of IL-17 in CD4+ T cell supernatant was lower relative to levels in the group without stigmasterol. Meanwhile, stigmasterol treatment attenuated the expression level of TGF- β, p-Smad2 and IL-17A proteins in CD4+ T cells and enhanced the expression levels of IL-10 protein. These data suggested that stigmasterol inhibited the TGF-β1/Smad2 and IL-17A signaling pathway to achieve anti-asthmatic effects in the OVA-induced asthma mouse model. Collectively, the results of this study are that stigmasterol has achieved preliminary efficacy in the non-clinical laboratory, further studies are needed to consider the clinical application of stigmasterol.

LINC00158 modulates the function of BEAS-2B cells via targeting BCL11B and ameliorates OVA-LPS-induced severe asthma in mice models

Persistent type (T) 2 airway inflammation plays an important role in the development of severe asthma. However, the molecular mechanisms leading to T2 severe asthma have yet to be fully clarified. Human normal lung epithelial cells (BEAS-2B cells) were transfected with LINC00158/BCL11B plasmid/small interfering RNA (siRNA). Levels of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related markers were measured using real-time qPCR (RT-qPCR) and western blot. A dual luciferase reporter assay was used to validate the targeting relationship between LINC00158 and BCL11B. The effects of LINC00158-lentivirus vector-mediated overexpression and dexamethasone on ovalbumin (OVA)/lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced severe asthma were investigated in mice in vivo. Our study showed that overexpression of LINC00158/BCL11B inhibited the levels of EMT-related proteins, apoptosis, and promoted the proliferation of BEAS-2B cells. BCL11B was a direct target of LINC00158. And LINC00158 targeted BCL11B to regulate EMT, apoptosis, and cell proliferation of BEAS-2B cells. Compared with severe asthma mice, LINC00158 overexpression alleviated OVA/LPS-induced airway hyperresponsiveness and airway inflammation, including reductions in T helper 2 cells factors in lung tissue and BALF, serum total- and OVA-specific IgE, inflammatory cell infiltration, and goblet cells hyperplasia. In addition, LINC00158 overexpression alleviated airway remodeling, including reduced plasma TGF-β1 and collagen fiber deposition, as well as suppression of EMT. Additionally, overexpression of LINC00158 enhanced the therapeutic effect of dexamethasone in severe asthmatic mice models. LINC00158 regulates BEAS-2B cell biological function by targeting BCL11B. LINC00158 ameliorates T2 severe asthma in vivo and provides new insights into the clinical treatment of severe asthma.

Early Growth Response Gene-1 Deficiency Interrupts TGFβ1 Signaling Activation and Aggravates Neurodegeneration in Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis Mice

Early growth response protein 1 (Egr-1) triggers the transcription of many genes involved in cell growth, differentiation, synaptic plasticity, and neurogenesis. However, its mechanism in neuronal survival and degeneration is still poorly understood. This study demonstrated that Egr-1 was down-regulated at mRNA and protein levels in the central nervous system (CNS) of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) mice. Egr-1 knockout exacerbated EAE progression in mice, as shown by increased disease severity and incidence; it also aggravated neuronal apoptosis, which was associated with weakened activation of the BDNF/TGFβ 1/MAPK/Akt signaling pathways in the CNS of EAE mice. Consistently, Egr-1 siRNA promoted apoptosis but mitigated the activation of BDNF/TGFβ 1/MAPK/Akt signaling in SH-SY5Y cells. Our results revealed that Egr-1 is a crucial regulator of neuronal survival in EAE by regulating TGFβ 1-mediated signaling activation, implicating the important role of Egr-1 in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis as a potential novel therapy target.

Long non-coding RNA (LncRNA) non-coding RNA activated by DNA damage (NORAD) knockdown alleviates airway remodeling in asthma via regulating miR-410-3p/RCC2 and inhibiting Wnt/β-catenin pathway

Background

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder with high prevalence in childhood. Airway remodeling, an important structural change of the airways, is resulted from epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Long non-coding RNA non-coding RNA activated by DNA damage (NORAD) has been found to promote epithelial-mesenchymal transition in multiple cancers. This study aimed to analyze the role of NORAD in asthma, mainly focusing on epithelial-mesenchymal transition-mediated airway remodeling, and further explored the NORAD-miRNA-mRNA network.

Methods

NORAD expression was analyzed in transforming growth factor-β1-induced BEAS-2B human bronchial epithelial cells and ovalbumin-challenged asthmatic mice. The influences of NORAD on the epithelial-mesenchymal transition characteristics and Wnt/β-catenin pathway activation were analyzed in vitro. The interactions between NORAD and miR-410-3p as well as miR-410-3p and regulator of chromosome condensation 2 were detected by dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA pull-down assay. Rescue experiments using miR-410-3p antagonist and chromosome condensation 2 overexpression were used to confirm the mechanism of NORAD. Additionally, the role and mechanism of NORAD were further evaluated in asthmatic mice.

Results

NORAD expression was elevated in both asthmatic models. Knockdown of NORAD impeded spindle-like morphology changes, elevated E-cadherin expression, decreased N-cadherin expression, suppressed cell migration, and inactivated the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in transforming growth factor-β1-stimulated BEAS-2B cells. NORAD acted as a sponge of miR-410-3p to regulate chromosome condensation 2 expression. Rescue assays demonstrated that silencing of NORAD ameliorated transforming growth factor-β1-induced EMT via miR-410-3p/chromosome condensation 2/Wnt/β-catenin axis. In vivo, knockdown of NORAD led to the reduction of inflammatory cell infiltration and collagen deposition, suppression of IL-4, IL-13, transforming growth factor-β1 and immunoglobulin E production, decreasing of N-cadherin, chromosome condensation 2, β-catenin and c-Myc expression, but increasing of E-cadherin and miR-410-3p expression.

Conclusions

Silencing of NORAD alleviated epithelial-mesenchymal transition-mediated airway remodeling in asthma via mediating miR-410-3p/chromosome condensation 2/Wnt/β-catenin pathway.

DEK deficiency suppresses mitophagy to protect against house dust mite-induced asthma

DEK protein is highly expressed in asthma. However, the mechanism of DEK on mitophagy in asthma has not been fully understood. This study aims to investigate the role and mechanism of DEK in asthmatic airway inflammation and in regulating PINK1-Parkin-mediated mitophagy, NLRP3 inflammasome activation, and apoptosis. PINK1-Parkin mitophagy, NLRP3 inflammasome, and apoptosis were examined after gene silencing or treatment with specific inhibitors (MitoTEMPO, MCC950, and Ac-DEVD-CHO) in house dust mite (HDM) or recombinant DEK (rmDEK)-induced WT and DEK-/- asthmatic mice and BEAS-2B cells. The regulatory role of DEK on ATAD3A was detected using ChIP-sequence and co-immunoprecipitation. rmDEK promoted eosinophil recruitment, and co-localization of TOM20 and LC3B, MFN1 and mitochondria, LC3B and VDAC, and ROS generation, reduced protein level of MnSOD in HDM induced-asthmatic mice. Moreover, rmDEK also increased DRP1 expression, PINK1-Parkin-mediated mitophagy, NLRP3 inflammasome activation, and apoptosis. These effects were partially reversed in DEK-/- mice. In BEAS-2B cells, siDEK diminished the Parkin, LC3B, and DRP1 translocation to mitochondria, mtROS, TOM20, and mtDNA. ChIP-sequence analysis showed that DEK was enriched on the ATAD3A promoter and could positively regulate ATAD3A expression. Additionally, ATAD3A was highly expressed in HDM-induced asthma models and interacted with DRP1, and siATAD3A could down-regulate DRP1 and mtDNA-mediated mitochondrial oxidative damage. Conclusively, DEK deficiency alleviates airway inflammation in asthma by down-regulating PINK1-Parkin mitophagy, NLRP3 inflammasome activation, and apoptosis. The mechanism may be through the DEK/ATAD3A/DRP1 signaling axis. Our findings may provide new potential therapeutic targets for asthma treatment.

Effects of total alkaloids from Alstonia scholaris (L.) R. Br. on ovalbumin-induced asthma mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

More than 300 million people worldwide suffer from asthma, a chronic respiratory inflammatory disease. Total alkaloids (TA) were extracted from the ethnic medicinal plant Alstonia solaris (L.) R.Br., which is used to treat respiratory diseases. They may be effective drugs for treating asthma, but research is still needed to determine their effectiveness and mechanism in treating asthma.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To further understand TA's role in the treatment of asthma and to support the phase II trial of the drug.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study, we investigated the effects of TA in a mouse asthma model produced by Ovalbumin (OVA). H&E and PAS staining were used to observe the histopathological features of lung. airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) was detected by ventilator; The expression of interleukin (IL)-33, suppression of tumorigenicity 2 (ST2) and E-cadherin in the lungs was evaluated by IHC. The concentrations of Mucin5AC (MUC5AC), eotaxin, IL-4, IL-5, IL-9, IL-13, interferon (IFN)-γ, IL-6, IL-8, IL-17A, IL-33, IL-25, thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1), leukotriene (LT) B4, LTC4, LTD4, LTE4 in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and total IgE (tIgE), OVA-Specific IgE (OVA-IgE) in serum were measured by ELISA. ILC2s and eosinophils were detected in lung tissue by flow cytometry. The gene expression levels of IL-33 and ST2 were detected by RT-qPCR.

RESULTS

Administration of TA reduced pulmonary inflammatory symptoms, MUC5AC production in the BALF, and AHR. At the same time, TA inhibited eotaxin production and eosinophil recruitment. Moreover, TA significantly decreased Th2 and Th17 cytokines and increased Th1 cytokines, contributing to restore the balance between Th1 and Th2 and Th17 cytokines. TA may reduce ILC2s numbers by inhibiting IL-33, IL-25, and TSLP levels in BALF and IL-33/ST2 signaling in lung tissue. Finally, TA decreased tIgE, OVA-IgE, and MCP-1 levels and subsequently inhibited mast cell activation and leukotriene release.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings imply that TA may be an effective immunoregulatory medication for the management and prevention of asthma.

Urinary extracellular vesicles prevent di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate-induced hypospadias by facilitating epithelial-mesenchymal transition via PFN2 delivery

BACKGROUND

Urinary extracellular vesicles (EVs) have gained increasing interest in recent years as a potential source of noninvasive biomarkers of diseases related to urinary organs, but knowledge of the mechanism is still limited. The current study sought to clarify the mechanism of urinary EVs behind di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP)-induced hypospadias via PFN2 delivery.

METHOD

PFN2 expression in hypospadias was predicted by bioinformatics analysis. Following the induction of a hypospadias rat model using DEHP, rats were injected with EVs and/or underwent alteration of PFN2 and TGF-β1 to assess their effects in vivo. The extracted rat urothelial cells (UECs) were co-cultured with EVs extracted from urine for in vitro experiments.

RESULT

Microarray analysis predicted poor PFN2 expression in hypospadias. Upregulated PFN2 was found in urinary EVs, and restrained epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) was observed in DEHP-exposed rats. Urinary EVs or PFN2 overexpression increased SMAD2, SMAD3, and TGF-β1 protein expression and SMAD2 and SMAD3 phosphorylation in UECs and DEHP-exposed rats. UEC migration, invasion, and EMT were augmented by EV co-culture or upregulation of PFN2. Of note, the silencing of TGF-β1 counterweighed the effect of PFN2. Besides, EV co-culture or overexpression of PFN2 or TGF-β1 elevated the body weight, anal-genital distance (AGD), anal-genital index (AGI), and EMT of DEHP-exposed rats.

CONCLUSION

In summary, urinary EVs activated the SMAD/TGF-β1 pathway to induce EMT via PFN2 delivery, thus protecting against DEHP-induced hypospadias. (1) EMT in epithelial cells inhibits DEHP-induced hypospadias. (2) Urine-derived EVs deliver PFN2 to promote EMT in epithelial cells. (3) PFN2 can activate the SMAD/TGF-β1 signaling axis. (4) Urine-derived EVs can transmit PFN2 to activate the SMAD/TGF-β1 signaling axis, thus promoting EMT and inhibiting the occurrence of hypospadias.

m6A-modified miR-143-3p inhibits epithelial mesenchymal transition in bronchial epithelial cells and extracellular matrix production in lung fibroblasts by targeting Smad3

BACKGROUND

Airway epithelial cells epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) and lung fibroblasts extracellular matrix (ECM) production are the key steps in airway remodeling. Our previous study demonstrated that miR-143-3p has the ability to impede airway smooth muscle cell proliferation and ECM deposition. However, the function of miR-143-3p in airway epithelial cells and lung fibroblasts remains unclear.

METHODS

Cell viability was determined using MTT method, while cell migration was evaluated through scratch assay. EMT and ECM proteins were detected by western blot, RT-qPCR, and ELISA. To determine the level of miR-143-3p m6A methylation, we employed the meRIP-qPCR assay. Additionally, the binding of miR-143-3p with Smad3 were projected by bioinformatics and validated by dual luciferase reporter assays.

RESULTS

It was discovered that the expression of miR-143-3p were lower in both asthma patients and TGF-β1-treated human bronchial epithelial 16HBE cells and human lung fibroblast HPF cells. Upregulation of miR-143-3p restrained 16HBE cell migration, and decreased EMT mesenchymal markers and increased epithelial markers. And upregulation of miR-143-3p impaired cell viability and ECM protein production in HPF cells. Mechanistically, interfering with METTL3 resulted in decreased m6A modification of miR-143-3p and led to lower levels of miR-143-3p. Moreover, miR-143-3p were verified to directly target and downregulate Smad3. Upregulation of Smad3 attenuated the effects of miR-143-3p on cell EMT and ECM production.

CONCLUSION

MiR-143-3p inhibits airway epithelial cell EMT as well as lung fibroblast ECM production by downregulating Smad3. Therefore, miR-143-3p may be a promising target to reduce airway remodeling in asthma.

The Interaction of OTUB1 and TRAF3 Mediates NLRP3 Inflammasome Activity to Regulate TGF-β1-induced BEAS-2B Cell Injury

Asthma is a frequently chronic respiratory disease with inflammation and remodeling in the airway. OTUB1 has been reported to be associated with pulmonary diseases. However, the role and potential mechanism of OTUB1 in asthma remain unclear. The expressions of OTUB1 in the bronchial mucosal tissues of asthmatic children and TGF-β1-induced BEAS-2B cells were determined. The biological behaviors were assessed in an asthma in vitro model using a loss-function approach. The contents of inflammatory cytokines were detected by ELISA kits. The related protein expressions were performed using western blot assay. Besides, the interaction between OTUB1 and TRAF3 was detected by Co-IP and ubiquitination assays. Our results showed that OTUB1 level was increased in asthmatic bronchial mucosal tissues and TGF-β1-induced BEAS-2B cells. OTUB1 knockdown promoted proliferation, inhibited apoptosis and EMT of TGF-β1-treated cells. The inhibition of OTUB1 attenuated the TGF-β1-induced inflammation and remodeling. Furthermore, OTUB1 knockdown inhibited the deubiquitination of TRAF3 and further suppressed the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome. The overexpression of TRAF3 or NLRP3 reversed the positive role of OTUB1 knockdown in TGF-β1-induced cells injury. Collectively, OTUB1 deubiquitinates TRAF3 to activate NLRP3 inflammasome, thereby leading to inflammation and remodeling of TGF-β1-induced cells, and further promoting the pathogenesis of asthma.

Exploring the action mechanism of Jinxin oral liquid on asthma by network pharmacology, molecular docking, and microRNA recognition

Using network pharmacology, molecular docking, and microRNA recognition, we have elucidated the mechanisms underlying the treatment of asthma by Jinxin oral liquid (JXOL). We began by identifying and normalizing the active compounds in JXOL through searches in the traditional Chinese medicine systems pharmacology database, SwissADME database, encyclopedia of traditional Chinese medicine database, HERB database, and PubChem. Subsequently, we gathered and standardized the targets of these active compounds from sources including the encyclopedia of traditional Chinese medicine database, similarity ensemble approach dataset, UniProt, and other databases. Disease targets were extracted from GeneCards, PharmGKB, OMIM, comparative toxicogenomics database, and DisGeNET. The intersection of targets between JXOL and asthma was determined using a Venn diagram. We visualized a Formula-Herb-Compound-Target-Disease network and a protein-protein interaction network using Cytoscape 3.9.0. Molecular docking studies were performed using Schrodinger software. To identify pathways related to asthma, we conducted gene ontology functional analysis and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes pathway enrichment analysis using Metascape. MicroRNAs regulating the hub genes were obtained from the miRTarBase database, and a network linking these targets and miRNAs was constructed. Finally, we found 88 bioactive components in JXOL and 218 common targets with asthma. Molecular docking showed JXOL key compounds strongly bind to HUB targets. According to gene ontology biological process analysis and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes pathway enrichment analysis, the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, the MAPK signaling pathway, or the cAMP signaling pathway play a key role in treating of asthma by JXOL. The HUB target-miRNA network showed that 6 miRNAs were recognized. In our study, we have revealed for the first time the unique components, multiple targets, and diverse pathways in JXOL that underlie its mechanism of action in treating asthma through miRNAs.

Role of transforming growth factor-β in airway remodelling in bronchiolitis obliterans

Airway remodelling is the main pathological mechanism of bronchiolitis obliterans (BO). Several studies have found that transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) expression is increased in BO during airway remodelling, where it plays an important role in various biological processes by binding to its receptor complex to activate multiple signalling proteins and pathways. This review examines the role of TGF-β in airway remodelling in BO and its potential as a therapeutic target, highlighting the mechanisms of TGF-β activation and signalling, cellular targets of TGF-β actions, and research progress in TGF-β signalling and TGF-β-mediated processes.

Molecular pathogenesis of subretinal fibrosis in neovascular AMD focusing on epithelial-mesenchymal transformation of retinal pigment epithelium

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss among elderly people in developed countries. Neovascular AMD (nAMD) accounts for more than 90% of AMD-related vision loss. At present, intravitreal injection of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) is widely used as the first-line therapy to decrease the choroidal and retinal neovascularizations, and thus to improve or maintain the visual acuity of the patients with nAMD. However, about 1/3 patients still progress to irreversible visual impairment due to subretinal fibrosis even with adequate anti-VEGF treatment. Extensive literatures support the critical role of epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT) of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) in the pathogenesis of subretinal fibrosis in nAMD, but the underlying mechanisms still remain largely unknown. This review summarized the molecular pathogenesis of subretinal fibrosis in nAMD, especially focusing on the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)-induced EMT pathways. It was also discussed how these pathways crosstalk and respond to signals from the microenvironment to mediate EMT and contribute to the progression of nAMD-related subretinal fibrosis. Targeting EMT signaling pathways might provide a promising and effective therapeutic strategy to treat subretinal fibrosis secondary to nAMD.

Gene-Smoking Interaction Analysis for the Identification of Novel Asthma-Associated Genetic Factors

Asthma is a complex heterogeneous disease caused by gene-environment interactions. Although numerous genome-wide association studies have been conducted, these interactions have not been systemically investigated. We sought to identify genetic factors associated with the asthma phenotype in 66,857 subjects from the Health Examination Study, Cardiovascular Disease Association Study, and Korea Association Resource Study cohorts. We investigated asthma-associated gene-environment (smoking status) interactions at the level of single nucleotide polymorphisms, genes, and gene sets. We identified two potentially novel (SETDB1 and ZNF8) and five previously reported (DM4C, DOCK8, MMP20, MYL7, and ADCY9) genes associated with increased asthma risk. Numerous gene ontology processes, including regulation of T cell differentiation in the thymus (GO:0033081), were significantly enriched for asthma risk. Functional annotation analysis confirmed the causal relationship between five genes (two potentially novel and three previously reported genes) and asthma through genome-wide functional prediction scores (combined annotation-dependent depletion, deleterious annotation of genetic variants using neural networks, and RegulomeDB). Our findings elucidate the genetic architecture of asthma and improve the understanding of its biological mechanisms. However, further studies are necessary for developing preventive treatments based on environmental factors and understanding the immune system mechanisms that contribute to the etiology of asthma.

Exploring the Potential of Aptamers in Targeting Neuroinflammation and Neurodegenerative Disorders: Opportunities and Challenges

Neuroinflammation is the precursor for several neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs), such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and multiple sclerosis (MS). Targeting neuroinflammation has emerged as a promising strategy to address a wide range of CNS pathologies. These NDDs still present significant challenges in terms of limited and ineffective diagnosis and treatment options, driving the need to explore innovative and novel therapeutic alternatives. Aptamers are single-stranded nucleic acids that offer the potential for addressing these challenges through diagnostic and therapeutic applications. In this review, we summarize diagnostic and therapeutic aptamers for inflammatory biomolecules, as well as the inflammatory cells in NDDs. We also discussed the potential of short nucleotides for Aptamer-Based Targeted Brain Delivery through their unique features and modifications, as well as their ability to penetrate the blood-brain barrier. Moreover, the unprecedented opportunities and substantial challenges of using aptamers as therapeutic agents, such as drug efficacy, safety considerations, and pharmacokinetics, are also discussed. Taken together, this review assesses the potential of aptamers as a pioneering approach for target delivery to the CNS and the treatment of neuroinflammation and NDDs.

Effect of budesonide combined with montelukast sodium on pulmonary function parameters and immunoglobulin levels in children with bronchial asthma

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Bronchial asthma is a prevalent type of respiratory disease that affects a large proportion of pediatric patients. The purpose of this study is to further investigate the clinical effects of budesonide combined with montelukast sodium in treating bronchial asthma.

METHODS

Eighty six children with bronchial asthma were equally divided into study and control groups via randomized double-blind controlled trial. The control group was treated with aerosol inhalation of budesonide combined with placebo, while the study group was treated with budesonide combined with montelukast sodium. Pulmonary function parameters, immunoglobulin, and recovery of related symptoms, along with the adverse reaction rate, were observed and compared between both groups.

RESULTS

Before treatment, there was no marked difference in pulmonary function parameters and immunoglobulin indexes between both groups (P > 0.05). All pulmonary function indicators and immunoglobulin indexes in both groups improved following therapy, with the study group outperforming the control group (P < 0.05). The recovery time of related symptoms in the study group was shorter than that in the control group (P < 0.05). The incidence of adverse reactions in both groups was compared, with notable differences (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Budesonide combined with montelukast sodium in the treatment of bronchial asthma has the value of clinical application and promotion.

Mitochondrial division inhibitor (mdivi-1) inhibits proliferation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition via the NF-κB pathway in thyroid cancer cells

Excessively fragmented mitochondria have been reported in thyroid cancer (TC). Mitochondrial division inhibitor (mdivi-1), a putative inhibitor of dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1), prevents mitochondrial fission and thereby restricts cell proliferation across several types of primary cancer. However, the role of mdivi-1 on TC has not been sufficiently studied. This research is intended to explore the therapeutic effect of mdivi-1 in TC cells. Results demonstrated that highly invasive TC cells displayed excessive mitochondrial fission with more fragmented mitochondria. Treatment with mdivi-1 inhibited mitochondrial fission in 8505C cells as indicated by transmission electron microscope (TEM). It also impaired the proliferation and increased apoptosis in 8505C and K1 cells as shown by plate cloning assay, cell viability assay, and apoptosis assay. Mdivi-1 treatment also attenuated migratory and invasive abilities in 8505C and K1 cells as shown by the transwell assay and the wound healing assay. And we noticed the same inhibition of mdivi-1 in cell migration and cell viability after the knockdown of Drp1 in 8505C cells. This demonstrated that mdivi-1 exerted an anti-tumor effect independently of Drp1 in 8505C cells. Moreover, mdivi-1 treatment reversed epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) by inhibiting the NF-κB pathway in 8505C cells. The present findings demonstrate that mdivi-1 has a therapeutic role in thyroid carcinoma.

Ginsenoside Rh1 ameliorates the asthma and allergic inflammation via inhibiting Akt, MAPK, and NF-κB signaling pathways in vitro and in vivo

AIMS

Overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines and its-mediated immune cell infiltration play a crucial role in asthma progression. In this study, we investigated the role of ginsenoside Rh1 (Rh1) in ovalbumin (OVA)/lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced allergic asthma both in vitro and in vivo.

MATERIALS AND MAIN METHODS

The phorbol ester (PMA) and LPS were used to induce inflammation in lung airway cells and macrophage activation, respectively. Western blotting, quantitative reverse transcription-PCR, and immunofluorescence (IF) assays were performed to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms. To evaluating the effects of Rh1 in vivo, OVA and LPS were used to establish allergic asthma models.

KEY FINDINGS

Rh1 significantly suppressed PMA-induced lung inflammation and macrophage activation by suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, MCP-1), ICMA-1, and matrix metallopeptidase 9 (MMP9) in A549 cells. Rh1 abolished the PMA-induced inflammation by suppressing MAPK, Akt, and NF-κB p65. Pretreatment with Rh1 blocked PMA-mediated translocation of NF-κB, a key marker of pro-inflammatory cytokine release, into the nucleus. Similar to PMA-induced lung inflammation, Rh1 suppressed LPS-induced macrophage activation by suppressing NF-κB p65 activation and inducible nitric oxide synthase protein and mRNA expression. Consistent with in vitro data, LPS injection enhanced the number of immune cells induced by OVA in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, whereas 20 mg/kg Rh1 significantly decreased OVA/LPS-mediated immune cell induction. In addition, Rh1 inhibited eosinophil, macrophage, and neutrophil maturation through by IL-4 and OVA-specific IgE production.

SIGNIFICANCE

Rh1 protects against OVA/LPS-induced allergic asthma by suppressing immune cell infiltration by blocking the activation of MAPK, Akt, and NF-κB signaling pathways.

CMTM6 as a candidate risk gene for cervical cancer: Comprehensive bioinformatics study

Background: CKLF like MARVEL transmembrane domain containing 6 (CMTM6) is an important programmed cell death 1 ligand 1 regulator (PD-L1). CMTM6 was reported as an important regulator of PD-L1 by promoting PD-L1 expression in tumor cells against T cells. However, the function of CMTM6 in cervical cancer is not well characterized. In addition, the role of CMTM6 in the induction of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in the context of cervical cancer is unknown. Methods: In this study, we evaluated the role of CMTM6, including gene expression analysis, miRNA target regulation, and methylation characteristic, using multiple bioinformatics tools based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. The expression of CMTM6 in cervical cancer tissues and non-cancerous adjacent tissues was assessed using immunohistochemistry. In vitro and in vivo function experiments were performed to explore the effects of CMTM6 on growth and metastasis of cervical cancer. Results: Human cervical cancer tissues showed higher expression of CMTM6 than the adjacent non-cancerous tissues. In vitro assays showed that CMTM6 promoted cervical cancer cell invasion, migration, proliferation, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition via activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) c-jun N-terminal kinase (JNK)/p38 signaling pathway. We identified transcription factors (TFs), miRNAs, and immune cells that may interact with CMTM6. Conclusion: These results indicate that CMTM6 is a potential therapeutic target in the context of cervical cancer.

Role of Ezrin in Asthma-Related Airway Inflammation and Remodeling

Ezrin is an actin binding protein connecting the cell membrane and the cytoskeleton, which is crucial to maintaining cell morphology, intercellular adhesion, and cytoskeleton remodeling. Asthma involves dysfunction of inflammatory cells, cytokines, and airway structural cells. Recent studies have shown that ezrin, whose function is affected by extensive phosphorylation and protein interactions, is closely associated with asthma, may be a therapeutic target for asthma treatment. In this review, we summarize studies on ezrin and discuss its role in asthma-related airway inflammation and remodeling.

miR-181-5p attenuates neutrophilic inflammation in asthma by targeting DEK

We investigated the regulatory role of miR-181b-5p in neutrophilic asthma and its mechanisms by targeting DEK. DEK, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, and MMP-9 were overexpressed and the miR-181b-5p was decreased in mice with neutrophilic asthma. DEK was a direct target of miR-181b-5p. In mouse model, miR-181b-5p agomir had an inhibitory effect on airway inflammation and remodeling. miR-181b-5p inhibited DEK/p-GSK-3β^Ser9/β-catenin/MMP-9 pathway activation by regulating Wnt ligands in BEAS-2B and 16HBE cells. The ability of supernatants from human bronchial epithelial cells (hBECs) co-stimulated with CXCL8 (IL-8) and miR-181b-5p to induce NETs was weaker than that of IL-8 alone. Moreover, DEK overexpression led to excessive mitochondrial dysfunction, including DRP1 up-regulation, p-DRP1ser⁶³⁷ and MFN2 down-regulation, mitochondrial membrane potential loss, excessive mtROS generation and mitochondrial incompleteness. Interestingly, all these phenotypes were rescued by Wnt inhibitor DKK-1 and miR-181b-5p agomir. Additionally, inhibition of DRP1 with Mdivi-1 decreased MMP-9 on BEAS-2B cells. Overall, miR-181b-5p could attenuate neutrophilic asthma through inhibition of NETs release, DEK/p-GSK-3β^Ser9/β-catenin/MMP-9 pathway, DEK/Wnt/DRP1/MMP-9 and mitochondria damage. It may become a new therapeutic target for neutrophilic asthma.

IL-37 protects against airway remodeling by reversing bronchial epithelial-mesenchymal transition via IL-24 signaling pathway in chronic asthma

BACKGROUND

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is one of the mechanisms of airway remodeling in chronic asthma. Interleukin (IL)-24 has been implicated in the promotion of tissue fibrosis, and increased IL-24 levels have been observed in the nasal secretions and sputum of asthmatic patients. However, the role of IL-24 in asthmatic airway remodeling, especially in EMT, remains largely unknown. We aimed to explore the effect and mechanism of IL-24 on EMT and to verify whether IL-37 could alleviate IL-24-induced EMT in chronic asthma.

METHODS

BEAS-2B cells were exposed to IL-24, and cell migration was assessed by wound healing and Transwell assays. The expression of EMT-related biomarkers (E-cadherin, vimentin, and α-SMA) was evaluated after the cells were stimulated with IL-24 with or without IL-37. A murine asthma model was established by intranasal administration of house dust mite (HDM) extracts for 5 weeks, and the effects of IL-24 and IL-37 on EMT and airway remodeling were investigated by intranasal administration of si-IL-24 and rhIL-37.

RESULTS

We observed that IL-24 significantly enhanced the migration of BEAS-2B cells in vitro. IL-24 promoted the expression of the EMT biomarkers vimentin and α-SMA via the STAT3 and ERK1/2 pathways. In addition, we found that IL-37 partially reversed IL-24-induced EMT in BEAS-2B cells by blocking the ERK1/2 and STAT3 pathways. Similarly, the in vivo results showed that IL-24 was overexpressed in the airway epithelium of an HDM-induced chronic asthma model, and IL-24 silencing or IL-37 treatment could reverse EMT biomarker expression.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, these findings indicated that IL-37 mitigated HDM-induced airway remodeling by inhibiting IL-24-mediated EMT via the ERK1/2 and STAT3 pathways, thereby providing experimental evidence for IL-24 as a novel therapeutic target and IL-37 as a promising agent for treating severe asthma.

Crowberry inhibits cell proliferation and migration through a molecular mechanism that includes inhibition of DEK and Akt signaling in cholangiocarcinoma

Background

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a rare biliary adenocarcinoma related to poor clinical prognosis. Crowberry is an herbal medicine used to control inflammatory diseases and reestablish antioxidant enzyme activity. Although crowberry shows significant therapeutic efficacy in various tumors and diseases, its anticancer effects and specific molecular mechanisms in CCA are poorly understood.

Aim of the study

This study was conducted to characterize crowberry effects on CCA cells behavior.

Materials and methods

The chemical profiles of crowberry extract was qualitatively analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and HPLC–tandem mass spectrometry. MTT, colony formation and EdU assays were performed to measure cell proliferation. The effect of crowberry treatment on CCA cell migration was assessed by wound healing and migration assays. Moreover, Hoechst staining assay and flow cytometry were performed to assess the cell apoptosis rate. Western blotting was used to assess the protein expression levels of key factors associated with apoptosis, the Akt signaling pathway, and the epithelial-mesenchymal transition. A xenograft model was established and immunohistochemical and H&E staining was performed to assess crowberry antitumor effects in vivo.

Results

Crowberry clearly inhibited CCA cells proliferation and migration in a dose-dependent manner and induced apoptosis in vitro. Crowberry inactivated the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway by regulating DEK in vitro and significantly inhibited tumor growth by downregulating the DEK expression in xenograft models.

Conclusion

Crowberry inhibits CCA cells proliferation and migration through a molecular mechanism that includes inhibition of DEK and Akt signaling pathway inhibition in vitro and in vivo.

Graphical Abstract

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13020-022-00623-6.

Crowberry alterd expression levels of key mediators in PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.

Crowberry alterd expression levels of key mediators in PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.

Crowberry suppressed the expression of the proto-oncogene DEK in vivo and in vitro.

Crowberry inhibited CCA progression and migration through a molecular mechanism that includes inhibition of DEK and the Akt signaling pathway in vivo and in vitro.

Interaction between tumor microenvironment, autophagy, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in tumor progression

Tumor microenvironment (TME) is the ecosystem surrounding a tumor to influence tumor cells' growth, metastasis and immunological battlefield, in which the tumor systems fight against the body system. TME has been considered as the essential link between the tumorigenesis and development of neoplasm. Both nutrients intake and tumor progression to malignancy require the participation of components in TME. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a key step in the metastasis of tumor cells. Cells that lost polarity and acquired migration ability are prone to metastasize. Autophagy is an important self-protective mechanism in tumor cells and a necessity for the tumor cells to respond to harmful stress. Protective autophagy benefits tumor cells while abnormal autophagy leads to cell injury or death. EMT and autophagy are directly regulated by TME. To date, there are numerous studies on TME, autophagy and EMT separately, but few on their complex interrelationships. This review aims to comprehensively analyze the existing mechanisms and convincing evidence so far to seek novel therapeutic strategies and research directions.

Mechanism of Peitu Shengjin Formula Shenlingbaizhu Powder in Treating Bronchial Asthma and Allergic Colitis through Different Diseases with Simultaneous Treatment Based on Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking

Background

Shenlingbaizhu powder (SLBZP), one of the classic Earth-cultivating and gold-generating prescriptions of traditional Chinese medicine, is widely used to treat various diseases. However, the pharmacological mechanisms of SLBZP on bronchial asthma (BA) and allergic colitis (AC) remain to be elucidated.

Methods

Network pharmacology and molecular docking technology were used to explore the potential mechanism of SLBZP in treating BA and AC with the simultaneous treatment of different diseases. The potential active compounds of SLBZP and their corresponding targets were obtained from BATMAN-TCM, ETCM, SymMap TCM@TAIWAN, and TCMSP databases. BA and AC disease targets were collected through DisGeNET, TTD, GeneCards, PharmGKB, OMIM, NCBI, The Human Phenotype Ontology, and DrugBank databases. Common targets for drugs and diseases were screened by using the bioinformatics and evolutionary genomics platform. The analyses and visualizations of Gene Ontology (GO) function and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment of common targets were carried out by R software. The key targets were screened by using the plug-in “cytoHubba” of Cytoscape software, and the “active compound-key target” network was constructed. Molecular docking analysis was performed using AutoDock software. The miRTarBase database was used to predict microRNAs (miRNAs) targeting key targets, and the key target-miRNA network was constructed.

Result

Through screening, 246 active compounds and 281 corresponding targets were obtained. Common targets were mainly enriched in 2933 biological processes and 182 signal pathways to play the role of treating BA and AC. There were 131 active compounds related to key targets. The results of molecular docking showed that the important active compounds in SLBZP had good binding ability with the key targets. The key target-miRNA network showed that 94 miRNAs were predicted.

Conclusion

SLBZP has played the role of treating different diseases with the same treatment on BA and AC through the characteristics of multicompound, multitarget, and multipathway of traditional Chinese medicine, which provides a theoretical basis for explaining the mechanism and clinical application of SLBZP treating different diseases with the same treatment in BA and AC.

Cell-specific aptamers as potential drugs in therapeutic applications: A review of current progress

Cell-specific aptamers are a promising emerging player in the field of disease therapy. This paper reviews the multidimensional research progress made in terms of their classification, modification, and application. Based on the target location of cell-specific aptamers, it is defined and classified cell-specific aptamers into three groups including aptamers for cell surface markers, aptamers for intracellular components, and aptamers for extracellular components. Moreover, the modification methods of aptamers to achieve improved stability and affinity are concluded. In addition, recent advances in the application of cell-specific aptamers are discussed, mainly focusing on the increasing research attraction of cell state improving helpers and cell recruitment mediators in the improvement of cellular microenvironments to achieve successful disease therapy. This review also highlights 11 types of clinical aptamer drugs. Finally, the challenges and future directions of potential clinical applications are presented. In summary, we believe that cell-specific aptamers are promising drugs in disease therapy.

Dioscin exhibits protective effects on in vivo and in vitro asthma models via suppressing TGF-β1/Smad2/3 and AKT pathways

Dioscin is a natural product that possesses protective effects on multiple chronic injuries, but its effects on asthma are not fully understood. Herein, we evaluated its effects on asthmatic mice established by ovalbumin (OVA) sensitization and challenges and further explored the mechanism. Inflammatory cells in bronchoalveolar lavage fluids (BALFs) were analyzed using Diff-Quik staining. OVA-specific immunoglobulin E (IgE)/IgG1 in serum and inflammatory cytokines (interleukin 4[IL-4], IL-5, IL-13, and tumor necrosis factor-α) in BALFs and lung tissues were measured using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay Kits. Hematoxylin and eosin, periodic acid-Schiff, and immunohistochemistry staining showed histopathological changes in lung tissues. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in human bronchial epithelial (16HBE) cells was assessed by immunofluorescence staining. Hydroxyproline content was used to evaluate collagen deposition. Polymerase chain reaction and Western blot were performed to measure messenger RNA and protein expression. We found that dioscin treatment (particularly at the dose of 80 mg/kg) significantly inhibited pulmonary inflammation in asthmatic mice, as evidenced by the decreased serum OVA-specific IgE/IgG1 and the reduced inflammatory cells and cytokines in BALFs and lung tissues. Moreover, dioscin effectively ameliorated the goblet cell hyperplasia, mucus hypersecretion, collagen deposition, and smooth muscle hyperplasia in the airways of asthmatic mice. Mechanistically, dioscin restrained the activated TGF-β1/Smad2/3 and protein kinase B (AKT) signal pathways in lung tissues and potently reversed the TGF-β1-induced EMT and phosphorylation of Smad2/3 and AKT in 16HBE cells. Collectively, dioscin displayed protective effects on OVA-induced asthmatic mice via adjusting TGF-β1/Smad2/3 and AKT signal pathways, supporting the fact that dioscin could be a candidate for chronic asthma prevention in the future.

The Role of Osthole on TGF-β-Induced Lung Epithelium Apoptosis Injury and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition-Mediated Airway Remodeling in Pediatric Asthma

Osthole, a coumarin compound derived from Fructus Cnidii, exerts anti-inflammatory effects in an asthma model. But the effect of osthole on epithelial injury and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in asthma remains unclear. 16HBE cells were incubated with TGF-β1 with or without osthole in vitro. Ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthmatic mouse model was established in vivo. Cell counting kit-8 was carried out to evaluate the viability of 16HBE cells. The impact of osthole on TGF-β1-evoked cell apoptosis and EMT process was measured by flow cytometry based on Annexin V-FITC/PI staining, transwell assay, immunofluorescence, and Western blot. The regulatory role of osthole in TGF-β1/Smad and p38, ERK1/2, and JNK MAPK signaling was detected via Western blot. Osthole treatment significantly suppressed TGF-β1-induced 16HBE cell apoptosis, verified by a reduced percentage of apoptotic cells, decreased expression of proapoptotic proteins (cleaved-caspase3 and Bax), and enhanced antiapoptotic factor (Bcl-2) expression. In addition, the promotive impact of TGF-β1 on the migration of 16HBE cells was reversed by osthole, accompanied by elevated E-cadherin expression and reduced Snail and N-cadherin expression. The activation of the Smad2/3 and MAPKs pathway evoked by TGF-β1 was inhibited by osthole in 16HBE cells. We also found that osthole mitigated airway epithelium injury and subepithelial fibrosis in OVA-challenged asthmatic mice in vivo. Osthole could mitigate TGF-β1-induced epithelial cell injury and EMT process by suppressing the activation of MAPK and Smad2/3 pathways separately. Our present study showed a new insight into understanding the underlying mechanism of osthole injury on epithelium injury and subepithelial fibrosis in airway remodeling. Asthma, epithelial injury, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and airway remodeling are the effects of osthole on airway remodeling.

PCAT6 May Be a Whistler and Checkpoint Target for Precision Therapy in Human Cancers

Simple Summary

Prostate cancer-associated transcript 6 (PCAT6), as a newly discovered carcinogenic long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), is abnormally expressed in multiple diseases. With the accumulation of studies on PCAT6, we have a deeper understanding of its biological functions and mechanisms. Therefore, in this review, the various molecular mechanisms by which PCAT6 promotes multiple tumorigenesis and progression are summarized and discussed. Furthermore, its potential diagnostic, prognostic, and immunotherapeutic values are also clarified.

Abstract

LncRNAs are involved in the occurrence and progressions of multiple cancers. Emerging evidence has shown that PCAT6, a newly discovered carcinogenic lncRNA, is abnormally elevated in various human malignant tumors. Until now, PCAT6 has been found to sponge various miRNAs to activate the signaling pathways, which further affects tumor cell proliferation, migration, invasion, cycle, apoptosis, radioresistance, and chemoresistance. Moreover, PCAT6 has been shown to exert biological functions beyond ceRNAs. In this review, we summarize the biological characteristics of PCAT6 in a variety of human malignancies and describe the biological mechanisms by which PCAT6 can facilitate tumor progression. Finally, we discuss its diagnostic and prognostic values and clinical applications in various human malignancies.

Bixin protects mice against bronchial asthma though modulating PI3K/Akt pathway

Accumulating evidence has implicated the potential of natural compounds in treatment of asthma. Bixin is a natural food coloring isolated from the seeds of Bixa Orellana, which possesses anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties. Nevertheless, its therapeutic effect in asthma has not been elucidated. Our present study demonstrated that administration of Bixin suppressed allergic airway inflammation and reversed glucocorticoids resistance, as well as alleviated airway remodeling and airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) in asthmatic mice. In vitro studies showed that Bixin treatment could inhibit the development of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) mediated by transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling. Importantly, Bixin antagonized activation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) pathway both in vitro and in vivo. Above all, our findings reveal that Bixin functions as a potent antagonist of PI3K/Akt signaling to protect against allergic asthma, highlighting a novel strategy for asthma treatment based on natural products.