ERK and p38 MAPK-activated protein kinases: a family of protein kinases with diverse biological functions

Dopamine promotes osteogenic differentiation of PDLSCs by activating DRD1 and DRD2 during orthodontic tooth movement via ERK1/2 signaling pathway

Introduction

Orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) involves complex interactions between mechanical forces and periodontal tissue adaptation, mainly mediated by periodontal ligament cells, including periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs), osteoblasts, and osteoclasts. Dopamine (DA), a neurotransmitter known for its critical role in bone metabolism, is investigated in this study for its potential to enhance osteogenic differentiation in PDLSCs, which are pivotal in OTM. This study examined the potential of DA to facilitate OTM by binding to DA receptors (D1R and D2R) and activating the ERK1/2 signaling pathway. We propose that DA's interaction with these receptors on PDLSCs could enhance osteogenic differentiation, thereby accelerating bone remodeling and reducing the duration of orthodontic treatments, which offering a novel approach to improve clinical outcomes in orthodontic care.

Methods

This study utilized a rat OTM model, micro-CT, histological analyses, and in vitro assays to investigate dopamine's effect on osteogenesis. PDLSCs were cultured and treated with DA, and cytotoxicity, osteogenic differentiation, gene and protein expression assessed.

Results

Dopamine administration significantly increased trabecular bone density and osteogenic marker expression in an OTM rat model. In vitro, DA at 10 nM optimally promoted human PDLSCs osteogenesis without affecting proliferation. Blocking DA receptors or inhibiting the ERK1/2 pathway attenuated these effects, underscoring the importance of dopaminergic signaling in tension-induced osteogenesis during OTM.

Conclusion

Taken together, our study reveals that local dopamine administration at a concentration of 10 nM not only enhances tension-induced osteogenesis in vivo but also significantly promotes osteogenic differentiation of PDLSCs in vitro through D1 and D2 receptor-mediated ERK1/2 signaling pathway activation.

Application of the Cellular Thermal Shift Assay (CETSA) to validate drug target engagement in platelets

Small molecule drugs play a major role in the study of human platelets. Effective action of a drug requires it to bind to one or more targets within the platelet (target engagement). However, although in vitro assays with isolated proteins can be used to determine drug affinity to these targets, additional factors affect target engagement and its consequences in an intact platelet, including plasma membrane permeability, intracellular metabolism or compartmentalization, and level of target expression. Mechanistic interpretation of the effect of drugs on platelet activity requires comprehensive investigation of drug binding in the proper cellular context, i.e. in intact platelets. The Cellular Thermal Shift Assay (CETSA) is a valuable method to investigate target engagement within complex cellular environments. The assay is based on the principle that drug binding to a target protein increases that protein's thermal stability. In this technical report, we describe the application of CETSA to platelets. We highlight CETSA as a quick and informative technique for confirming the direct binding of drugs to platelet protein targets, providing a platform for understanding the mechanism of action of drugs in platelets, and which will be a valuable tool for investigating platelet signaling and function.

Unraveling the molecular mechanisms of fish physiological response to freshwater salinization: A comparative multi-tissue transcriptomic study in a river polluted by potash mining

Freshwater salinization is an escalating global environmental issue that threatens freshwater biodiversity, including fish populations. This study aims to uncover the molecular basis of salinity physiological responses in a non-native minnow species (Phoxinus septimaniae x P. dragarum) exposed to saline effluents from potash mines in the Llobregat River, Barcelona, Spain. Employing high-throughput mRNA sequencing and differential gene expression analyses, brain, gills, and liver tissues collected from fish at two stations (upstream and downstream of saline effluent discharge) were examined. Salinization markedly influenced global gene expression profiles, with the brain exhibiting the most differentially expressed genes, emphasizing its unique sensitivity to salinity fluctuations. Pathway analyses revealed the expected enrichment of ion transport and osmoregulation pathways across all tissues. Furthermore, tissue-specific pathways associated with stress, reproduction, growth, immune responses, methylation, and neurological development were identified in the context of salinization. Rigorous validation of RNA-seq data through quantitative PCR (qPCR) underscored the robustness and consistency of our findings across platforms. This investigation unveils intricate molecular mechanisms steering salinity physiological response in non-native minnows confronting diverse environmental stressors. This comprehensive analysis sheds light on the underlying genetic and physiological mechanisms governing fish physiological response in salinity-stressed environments, offering essential knowledge for the conservation and management of freshwater ecosystems facing salinization.

Vitrification of pig embryos dysregulates the microRNA transcriptome profile

This study examined how the vitrification of pig blastocysts using either the superfine open pulled straw (SOPS) or Cryotop method affects the expression profile of embryonic microRNA (miRNA) transcriptomes, as well as its relation to changes in the expression of target genes (TGs). Surgically collected pig blastocysts were vitrified using either the SOPS method (n = 60; 4-6 embryos/device) or the Cryotop system (n = 60; 20 embryos/device). Embryos were cultured in vitro for 24 h after warming. Fresh blastocysts (n = 60) cultured for 24 h served as controls. After in vitro culture, five pools of eight viable blastocysts from each group were prepared for miRNA expression analysis based on a microarray approach. Then, biological interpretation of miRNAs profiles and integrative analysis of miRNA and mRNA transcriptome data were performed. Survival after 24 h of in vitro culture was similar (>96 %) for both the vitrification systems and the control group (100 %). Compared with the controls, the SOPS-vitrified blastocysts had 94 (one upregulated and 93 downregulated) differentially expressed (DE) miRNAs, and the Cryotop-vitrified blastocysts had 174 DE miRNAs (one upregulated and 173 downregulated). One DE miRNA (miR-503) in the SOPS group and three DE miRNAs (miR-7139-3p, miR-214 and miR-885-3p) in the Cryotop group were annotated for Sus scrofa. The integrative analysis showed that 27 and 61 DE TGs were regulated by the DE miRNAs in blastocysts vitrified with the SOPS and Cryotop systems, respectively. The TGs enriched one pathway (the TGF-β signaling pathway) for the SOPS system and four pathways (HIF-1, Notch, ascorbate and aldarate metabolism and glycosphingolipid biosynthesis-ganglio series) for the Cryotop system. In summary, vitrification via the SOPS and Cryotop systems dysregulates miRNAs, with slight differences between methods. The altered miRNAs identified in this study were related mainly to cell proliferation, apoptosis, and the response to cell stress. Further studies are needed to clarify the consequences of dysregulation of miRNAs involved in the TGF-β (SOPS-vitrified blastocyst) and Notch (Cryotop-vitrified blastocyst) signaling pathways, particularly if they can affect embryonic development.

Exosomal miRNAs: the tumor's trojan horse in selective metastasis

Organs of future metastasis are not passive receivers of circulating tumor cells, but are instead selectively and actively modified by the primary tumor before metastatic spread has even occurred. Tumors orchestrate a pre-metastatic program by conditioning distant organs to create microenvironments that foster the survival and proliferation of tumor cells before their arrival, thereby establishing pre-metastatic niches. Primary tumor-derived exosomes modulate these pre-metastatic niches, generating a permissive environment that facilitates the homing and expansion of tumor cells. Moreover, microRNAs have emerged as a key component of exosomal cargo, serving not only to induce the formation of pre-metastatic niches but also to prime these sites for the arrival and colonization of specific secondary tumor populations. Against this backdrop, this review endeavors to elucidate the impact of tumor-derived exosomal microRNAs on the genesis of their individualized pre-metastatic niches, with a view towards identifying novel means of specifying cancer metastasis and exploiting this phenomenon for cancer immunotherapy.

Dual-Action Kinase Inhibitors Influence p38α MAP Kinase Dephosphorylation

Reversible protein phosphorylation directs essential cellular processes including cell division, cell growth, cell death, inflammation, and differentiation. Because protein phosphorylation drives diverse diseases, kinases and phosphatases have been targets for drug discovery, with some achieving remarkable clinical success. Most protein kinases are activated by phosphorylation of their activation loops, which shifts the conformational equilibrium of the kinase towards the active state. To turn off the kinase, protein phosphatases dephosphorylate these sites, but how the conformation of the dynamic activation loop contributes to dephosphorylation was not known. To answer this, we modulated the activation loop conformational equilibrium of human p38α MAP kinase with existing kinase inhibitors that bind and stabilize specific inactive activation loop conformations. From this, we discovered three inhibitors that increase the rate of dephosphorylation of the activation loop phospho-threonine by the PPM serine/threonine phosphatase WIP1. Hence, these compounds are "dual-action" inhibitors that simultaneously block the active site and stimulate p38α dephosphorylation. Our X-ray crystal structures of phosphorylated p38α bound to the dual-action inhibitors reveal a shared flipped conformation of the activation loop with a fully accessible phospho-threonine. In contrast, our X-ray crystal structure of phosphorylated apo human p38α reveals a different activation loop conformation with an inaccessible phospho-threonine, thereby explaining the increased rate of dephosphorylation upon inhibitor binding. These findings reveal a conformational preference of phosphatases for their targets and suggest a new approach to achieving improved potency and specificity for therapeutic kinase inhibitors.

The roles of phosphorylation of signaling proteins in the prognosis of acute myeloid leukemia

Signaling pathways of Retinoblastoma (Rb) protein, Akt-kinase, and Erk-kinase (extracellular signal-regulated kinase) have an important role in the pathogenesis of acute myeloid leukemia. Constitutive activation of these proteins by phosphorylation contributes to cell survival by regulation of cell cycle, proliferation and proapoptotic signaling processes. According to previous data phosphorylated forms of these proteins represent a worse outcome for cancer patients. We investigated the presence of phosphorylated Rb (P-Rb), Akt (P-Akt) and Erk (P-Erk) proteins by Western blot technique using phospho-specific antibodies in bone marrow or peripheral blood samples of 69 AML patients, 36 patients with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and 10 healthy volunteers. Expression level of PTEN (Phosphatase and tensin homolog) and PHLPP (PH domain and leucine-rich repeat Protein Phosphatase) phosphatases, the negative regulators of Akt kinase pathway were also examined. We tested the effect of these proteins on survival and on the correlation with known prognostic features in AML. We found 46.3% of AML patients had detectable P-Rb, 34.7% had P-Akt and 28.9% had P-Erk protein. 66.1% of patients expressing PTEN, 38.9% PHLPP, 37.2% both PTEN and PHLPP and 32.2% neither PTEN nor PHLPP phosphatases. Compared to nucleophosmin mutation (NPMc) negative samples P-Erk was significantly less in nucleophosmin mutated patients, P-Rb was significantly less in patients' group with more than 30 G/L peripheral leukocyte count by diagnosis. PHLPP was significantly present in FAB type M5. The expression of P-Rb represented significant better overall survival (OS), while P-Akt represented significantly worse event-free survival (EFS) in unfavorable cytogenetics patients. The presence of both PHLPP and PTEN phosphatases contributes to better OS and EFS, although the differences were not statistically significant. We confirmed significant positive correlation between P-Akt and PHLPP. Assessing the phosphorylation of Rb, Akt and Erk may define a subgroup of AML patients who would benefit especially from new targeted treatment options complemented the standard chemotherapy, and it may contribute to monitoring remission, relapse or progression of AML.

Novel L-(CaP-ZnP)/SA Nanocomposite Hydrogel with Dual Anti-Inflammatory and Mineralization Effects for Efficient Vital Pulp Therapy

Background

Vital pulp therapy (VPT) is considered a conservative treatment for preserving pulp viability in caries and trauma-induced pulpitis. However, Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) as the most frequently used repair material, exhibits limited efficacy under inflammatory conditions. This study introduces an innovative nanocomposite hydrogel, tailored to simultaneously target anti-inflammation and dentin mineralization, aiming to efficiently preserve vital pulp tissue.

Methods

The L-(CaP-ZnP)/SA nanocomposite hydrogel was designed by combining L-Arginine modified calcium phosphate/zinc phosphate nanoparticles (L-(CaP-ZnP) NPs) with sodium alginate (SA), and was characterized with TEM, SEM, FTIR, EDX, ICP-AES, and Zeta potential. In vitro, we evaluated the cytotoxicity and anti-inflammatory properties. Human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) were cultured with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to induce an inflammatory response, and the cell odontogenic differentiation was measured and possible signaling pathways were explored by alkaline phosphatase (ALP)/alizarin red S (ARS) staining, qRT-PCR, immunofluorescence staining, and Western blotting, respectively. In vivo, a pulpitis model was utilized to explore the potential of the L-(CaP-ZnP)/SA nanocomposite hydrogel in controlling pulp inflammation and enhancing dentin mineralization by Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining and immunohistochemistry staining.

Results

In vitro experiments revealed that the nanocomposite hydrogel was synthesized successfully and presented desirable biocompatibility. Under inflammatory conditions, compared to MTA, the L-(CaP-ZnP)/SA nanocomposite hydrogel demonstrated superior anti-inflammatory and pro-odontogenesis effects. Furthermore, the nanocomposite hydrogel significantly augmented p38 phosphorylation, implicating the involvement of the p38 signaling pathway in pulp repair. Significantly, in a rat pulpitis model, the L-(CaP-ZnP)/SA nanocomposite hydrogel downregulated inflammatory markers while upregulating mineralization-related markers, thereby stimulating the formation of robust reparative dentin.

Conclusion

The L-(CaP-ZnP)/SA nanocomposite hydrogel with good biocompatibility efficiently promoted inflammation resolution and enhanced dentin mineralization by activating p38 signal pathway, as a pulp-capping material, offering a promising and advanced solution for treatment of pulpitis.

High-glucose conditions attenuate the response of macrophages to Legionella pneumophila infection by inhibiting NOD1 and MAPK signaling

BACKGROUND

Patients with diabetes are particularly susceptible to Legionella pneumophila (LP) infection, but the exact pathogenesis of LP infection in diabetic patients is still not fully understood. Herein, we investigated the effect of diabetes on immune function during LP infection in vitro and in vivo.

METHODS

The time course of LP infection in macrophages under normal and high-glucose (HG) conditions was examined in vitro. Western blot was used to determine nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain 1 (NOD1), kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), mitogen-activated protein kinase p38 (MAPK p38), and c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK). Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to assess the secretion of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8) assay assessed U937 cell viability after treating cells with different concentrations of high sugar medium and ML130 (NOD1 inhibitor). For the in vivo study, normal and streptozocin-induced diabetic guinea pigs were infected with LP for 6, 24, and 72 h, after which NOD1, MAPK-related signals, TNF-α, and IL-6 expression in lung tissues were assessed using immunohistochemistry, western blot, and RT-PCR.

RESULTS

HG attenuated the upregulation of NOD1 expression and reduced TNF-α and IL-6 secretion caused by LP compared with LP-infected cells exposed to normal glucose levels (all p < 0.05). In diabetic guinea pigs, HG inhibited the upregulation of NOD1 expression in lung tissues and the activation of p38, ERK1/2, and cJNK caused by LP infection compared to control pigs (all p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

HG attenuates the response of macrophages to LP infection by inhibiting NOD1 upregulation and the activation of MAPK signaling.

The receptor kinase RiSho1 in Rhizophagus irregularis regulates arbuscule development and drought tolerance during arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis

In terrestrial ecosystems, most plant species can form beneficial associations with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi benefit plant nutrient acquisition and enhance plant tolerance to drought. The high osmolarity glycerol 1 mitogen-activated protein kinase (HOG1-MAPK) cascade genes have been characterized in Rhizophagus irregularis. However, the upstream receptor of the HOG1-MAPK cascade remains to be investigated. We identify the receptor kinase RiSho1 from R. irregularis, containing four transmembrane domains and one Src homology 3 (SH3) domain, corresponding to the homologue of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Higher expression levels of RiSho1 were detected during the in planta phase in response to drought. RiSho1 protein was localized in the plasma membrane of yeast, and interacted with the HOG1-MAPK module RiPbs2 directly by protein-protein interaction. RiSho1 complemented the growth defect of the yeast mutant ∆sho1 under sorbitol conditions. Knock-down of RiSho1 led to the decreased expression of downstream HOG1-MAPK cascade (RiSte11, RiPbs2, RiHog1) and drought-resistant genes (RiAQPs, RiTPSs, RiNTH1 and Ri14-3-3), hampered arbuscule development and decreased plants antioxidation ability under drought stress. Our study reveals the role of RiSho1 in regulating arbuscule development and drought-resistant genes via the HOG1-MAPK cascade. These findings provide new perspectives on the mechanisms by which AM fungi respond to drought.

Kinematic analysis of kinases and their oncogenic mutations - Kinases and their mutation kinematic analysis

Protein kinases are crucial cellular enzymes that facilitate the transfer of phosphates from adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to their substrates, thereby regulating numerous cellular activities. Dysfunctional kinase activity often leads to oncogenic conditions. Chosen by using structural similarity to 5UG9, we selected 79 crystal structures from the PDB and based on the position of the phenylalanine side chain in the DFG motif, we classified these 79 crystal structures into 5 group clusters. Our approach applies our kinematic flexibility analysis (KFA) to explore the flexibility of kinases in various activity states and examine the impact of the activation loop on kinase structure. KFA enables the rapid decomposition of macromolecules into different flexibility regions, allowing comprehensive analysis of conformational structures. The results reveal that the activation loop of kinases acts as a "lock" that stabilizes the active conformation of kinases by rigidifying the adjacent α-helices. Furthermore, we investigate specific kinase mutations, such as the L858R mutation commonly associated with non-small cell lung cancer, which induces increased flexibility in active-state kinases. In addition, through analyzing the hydrogen bond pattern, we examine the substructure of kinases in different states. Notably, active-state kinases exhibit a higher occurrence of α-helices compared to inactive-state kinases. This study contributes to the understanding of biomolecular conformation at a level relevant to drug development.

Long- and short-term dietary β-glucan improves intestinal health and disease resistance in pearl gentian grouper (Epinephelus lanceolatus♂ × Epinephelus fuscoguttatus♀)

β-Glucans are immunostimulants and are widely used in aquaculture industry. The present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of different periods of β-glucan management on growth performance, intestinal health, and disease resistance in pearl gentian grouper (Epinephelus lanceolatus♂ × Epinephelus fuscoguttatus♀). A commercial feed was used as control diet (CD), and the β-glucan diet (βD) was based on CD and further supplemented with 0.1% β-glucan. Grouper in control and long-term β-glucan diet (LGD) groups were fed with CD and βD for 8 weeks, respectively. Groupers in short-term β-glucan diet (SGD) group were fed with CD for the first 4 weeks and βD for the last 4 weeks. We found that LGD and SGD had no effect on growth performance but reduced the mortalities of grouper after challenging with Vibrio harveyi. In addition, both LGD and SGD increased intestinal morphology, enhanced antioxidant capacity, enhanced immunity, inhibited apoptosis, altered the transcriptional profile, and activated mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) signaling pathway in the intestine of grouper. Furthermore, the effect of LGD on most of the above parameters was comparable to that of SGD. In conclusion, LGD and SGD did not affect growth rate parameters but enhanced the intestinal health and disease resistance of pearl gentian grouper.

ERK3 is involved in regulating cardiac fibroblast function

ERK3/MAPK6 activates MAP kinase-activated protein kinase (MK)-5 in selected cell types. Male MK5 haplodeficient mice show reduced hypertrophy and attenuated increase in Col1a1 mRNA in response to increased cardiac afterload. In addition, MK5 deficiency impairs cardiac fibroblast function. This study determined the effect of reduced ERK3 on cardiac hypertrophy following transverse aortic constriction (TAC) and fibroblast biology in male mice. Three weeks post-surgery, ERK3, but not ERK4 or p38α, co-immunoprecipitated with MK5 from both sham and TAC heart lysates. The increase in left ventricular mass and myocyte diameter was lower in TAC-ERK3+/- than TAC-ERK3+/+ hearts, whereas ERK3 haploinsufficiency did not alter systolic or diastolic function. Furthermore, the TAC-induced increase in Col1a1 mRNA abundance was diminished in ERK3+/- hearts. ERK3 immunoreactivity was detected in atrial and ventricular fibroblasts but not myocytes. In both quiescent fibroblasts and "activated" myofibroblasts isolated from adult mouse heart, siRNA-mediated knockdown of ERK3 reduced the TGF-β-induced increase in Col1a1 mRNA. In addition, intracellular type 1 collagen immunoreactivity was reduced following ERK3 depletion in quiescent fibroblasts but not myofibroblasts. Finally, knocking down ERK3 impaired motility in both atrial and ventricular myofibroblasts. These results suggest that ERK3 plays an important role in multiple aspects of cardiac fibroblast biology.

FDA-Approved Tedizolid Phosphate Prevents Cisplatin-Induced Hearing Loss Without Decreasing Its Anti-tumor Effect

PURPOSE

Cisplatin is a low-cost clinical anti-tumor drug widely used to treat solid tumors. However, its use could damage cochlear hair cells, leading to irreversible hearing loss. Currently, there appears one drug approved in clinic only used for reducing ototoxicity associated with cisplatin in pediatric patients, which needs to further explore other candidate drugs.

METHODS

Here, by screening 1967 FDA-approved drugs to protect cochlear hair cell line (HEI-OC1) from cisplatin damage, we found that Tedizolid Phosphate (Ted), a drug indicated for the treatment of acute infections, had the best protective effect. Further, we evaluated the protective effect of Ted against ototoxicity in mouse cochlear explants, zebrafish, and adult mice. The mechanism of action of Ted was further explored using RNA sequencing analysis and verified. Meanwhile, we also observed the effect of Ted on the anti-tumor effect of cisplatin.

RESULTS

Ted had a strong protective effect on hair cell (HC) loss induced by cisplatin in zebrafish and mouse cochlear explants. In addition, when administered systemically, it protected mice from cisplatin-induced hearing loss. Moreover, antitumor studies showed that Ted had no effect on the antitumor activity of cisplatin both in vitro and in vivo. RNA sequencing analysis showed that the otoprotective effect of Ted was mainly achieved by inhibiting phosphorylation of ERK. Consistently, ERK activator aggravated the damage of cisplatin to HCs.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, these results showed that FDA-approved Ted protected HCs from cisplatin-induced HC loss by inhibiting ERK phosphorylation, indicating its potential as a candidate for preventing cisplatin ototoxicity in clinical settings.

TGF-β signaling regulates differentiation of MSCs in bone metabolism: disputes among viewpoints

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent cells that can differentiate into cells of different lineages to form mesenchymal tissues, which are promising in regard to treatment for bone diseases. Their osteogenic differentiation is under the tight regulation of intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) is an essential growth factor in bone metabolism, which regulates the differentiation of MSCs. However, published studies differ in their views on whether TGF-β signaling regulates the osteogenic differentiation of MSCs positively or negatively. The controversial results have not been summarized systematically and the related explanations are required. Therefore, we reviewed the basics of TGF-β signaling and summarized how each of three isoforms regulates osteogenic differentiation. Three isoforms of TGF-β (TGF-β1/β2/β3) play distinct roles in regulating osteogenic differentiation of MSCs. Additionally, other possible sources of conflicts are summarized here. Further understanding of TGF-β signaling regulation in MSCs may lead to new applications to promote bone regeneration and improve therapies for bone diseases.

The Medicinal Species of the Lycium Genus (Goji Berries) in East Asia: A Review of Its Effect on Cell Signal Transduction Pathways

Natural plants contain numerous chemical compounds that are beneficial to human health. The berries from the Lycium genus are widely consumed and are highly nutritious. Moreover, their chemical constituents have attracted attention for their health-promoting properties. In East Asia, there are three varieties of the Lycium genus (Lycium barbarum L., Lycium chinense Miller, and L. ruthenicum Murray) that possess medicinal value and are commonly used for treating chronic diseases and improving metabolic disorders. These varieties are locally referred to as "red Goji berries" or "black Goji berries" due to their distinct colors, and they differ in their chemical compositions, primarily in terms of carotenoid and anthocyanin content. The pharmacological functions of these berries include anti-aging, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-exercise fatigue effects. This review aims to analyze previous and recent studies on the active ingredients and pharmacological activities of these Lycium varieties, elucidating their signaling pathways and assessing their impact on the gut microbiota. Furthermore, the potential prospects for using these active ingredients in the treatment of COVID-19 are evaluated. This review explores the potential targets of these Lycium varieties in the treatment of relevant diseases, highlighting their potential value in drug development.

Driver Mutations in Pancreatic Cancer and Opportunities for Targeted Therapy

Pancreatic cancer is the sixth leading cause of cancer-related mortality globally. As the most common form of pancreatic cancer, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) represents up to 95% of all pancreatic cancer cases, accounting for more than 300,000 deaths annually. Due to the lack of early diagnoses and the high refractory response to the currently available treatments, PDAC has a very poor prognosis, with a 5-year overall survival rate of less than 10%. Targeted therapy and immunotherapy are highly effective and have been used for the treatment of many types of cancer; however, they offer limited benefits in pancreatic cancer patients due to tumor-intrinsic and extrinsic factors that culminate in drug resistance. The identification of key factors responsible for PDAC growth and resistance to different treatments is highly valuable in developing new effective therapeutic strategies. In this review, we discuss some molecules which promote PDAC initiation and progression, and their potential as targets for PDAC treatment. We also evaluate the challenges associated with patient outcomes in clinical trials and implications for future research.

Opportunities and Challenges of Soy Proteins with Different Processing Applications

Soybean meal (SBM) is a prevailing plant protein supplement in animal diets because of its nutritional value and availability. This review paper explores the significance of SBM and processed soy products, emphasizing their nutritional and bioactive components, such as isoflavones and soyasaponins. These compounds are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and are associated with a reduced prevalence of chronic diseases. However, the presence of antinutritional compounds in SBM presents a significant challenge. The paper evaluates various processing methods, including ethanol/acid wash, enzyme treatment, and fermentation, which are aimed at enhancing the nutritional value of soy products. It highlights the significance to maintain a balance between nutritional enhancement and the preservation of beneficial bioactive compounds, emphasizing the importance of different processing techniques to fully exploit the health benefits of soy-based products. Therefore, this review illuminates the complex balance between nutritional improvement, bioactive compound preservation, and the overall health implications of soy products.

Exercise-Regulated Mitochondrial and Nuclear Signalling Networks in Skeletal Muscle

Exercise perturbs energy homeostasis in skeletal muscle and engages integrated cellular signalling networks to help meet the contraction-induced increases in skeletal muscle energy and oxygen demand. Investigating exercise-associated perturbations in skeletal muscle signalling networks has uncovered novel mechanisms by which exercise stimulates skeletal muscle mitochondrial biogenesis and promotes whole-body health and fitness. While acute exercise regulates a complex network of protein post-translational modifications (e.g. phosphorylation) in skeletal muscle, previous investigations of exercise signalling in human and rodent skeletal muscle have primarily focused on a select group of exercise-regulated protein kinases [i.e. 5' adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), protein kinase A (PKA), Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase (CaMK) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)] and only a small subset of their respective protein substrates. Recently, global mass spectrometry-based phosphoproteomic approaches have helped unravel the extensive complexity and interconnection of exercise signalling pathways and kinases beyond this select group and phosphorylation and/or translocation of exercise-regulated mitochondrial and nuclear protein substrates. This review provides an overview of recent advances in our understanding of the molecular events associated with acute endurance exercise-regulated signalling pathways and kinases in skeletal muscle with a focus on phosphorylation. We critically appraise recent evidence highlighting the involvement of mitochondrial and nuclear protein phosphorylation and/or translocation in skeletal muscle adaptive responses to an acute bout of endurance exercise that ultimately stimulate mitochondrial biogenesis and contribute to exercise's wider health and fitness benefits.

Ribosomal S6 kinase 2-forkhead box protein O4 signaling pathway plays an essential role in melanogenesis

Although previous studies have examined the signaling pathway involved in melanogenesis through which ultraviolet (UV) or α-melanocyte-stimulating hormones (α-MSH) stimuli act as key inducers to produce melanin at the stratum basal layer of the epidermis, the signaling pathway regulating melanogenesis is still controversial. This study reports that α-MSH, not UVA and UVB, acted as a major stimulus of melanogenesis in B16F10 melanoma cells. Signaling pathway analysis using gene knockdown technology and chemical inhibitors, the mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)/p90 ribosomal S6 kinase 2 (RSK2) played an important role in melanogenesis. Unexpectedly, LY294002, a PI3K inhibitor, increased melanogenesis without UV or α-MSH stimulation, suggesting that the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway may not be a major signaling pathway for melanogenesis. Chemical inhibition of the MEKs/ERKs/RSK2 signaling pathway using U0126 or BI-D1870 suppressed melanogenesis by stimulation of UVA or α-MSH stimulation, or both. In particular, the genetic depletion of RSK2 or constitutive active (CA)-RSK2 overexpression showed that RSK2 plays a key role in melanogenesis. Interestingly, forkhead box protein O4 (FOXO4) was phosphorylated by RSK2, resulting in the increase of FOXO4's transactivation activity. Notably, the FOXO4 mutant harboring serine-to-alanine replacement at the phosphorylation sites totally abrogated the transactivation activity and reduced melanin production, indicating that RSK2-mediated FOXO4 activity plays a key role in melanogenesis. Furthermore, kaempferol, a flavonoid inhibiting the RSK2 activity, suppressed melanogenesis. In addition, FOXO4-wt overexpression showed that FOXO4 enhance melanin synthesis. Overall, the RSK2-FOXO4 signaling pathway plays a key role in modulating melanogenesis.

An insight into crosstalk among multiple signalling pathways contributing to the pathophysiology of PTSD and depressive disorders

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depressive disorders represent two significant mental health challenges with substantial global prevalence. These are debilitating conditions characterized by persistent, often comorbid, symptoms that severely impact an individual's quality of life. Both PTSD and depressive disorders are often precipitated by exposure to traumatic events or chronic stress. The profound impact of PTSD and depressive disorders on individuals and society necessitates a comprehensive exploration of their shared and distinct pathophysiological features. Although the activation of the stress system is essential for maintaining homeostasis, the ability to recover from it after diminishing the threat stimulus is also equally important. However, little is known about the main reasons for individuals' differential susceptibility to external stressful stimuli. The solution to this question can be found by delving into the interplay of stress with the cognitive and emotional processing of traumatic incidents at the molecular level. Evidence suggests that dysregulation in these signalling cascades may contribute to the persistence and severity of PTSD and depressive symptoms. The treatment strategies available for this disorder are antidepressants, which have shown good efficiency in normalizing symptom severity; however, their efficacy is limited in most individuals. This calls for the exploration and development of innovative medications to address the treatment of PTSD. This review delves into the intricate crosstalk among multiple signalling pathways implicated in the development and manifestation of these mental health conditions. By unravelling the complexities of crosstalk among multiple signalling pathways, this review aims to contribute to the broader knowledge base, providing insights that could inform the development of targeted interventions for individuals grappling with the challenges of PTSD and depressive disorders.

The Role of Vitamins in Mitigating the Effects of Various Stress Factors in Pigs Breeding

Good practices in farm animal care are crucial for upholding animal well-being, efficiency, and health. Pigs, like other farm animals, are exposed to various stressors, including environmental, nutritional, chemical, psychological, physiological, and metabolic stressors, which can disrupt their internal balance and compromise their well-being. Oxidative stress can adversely affect animal performance, fertility, and immunity, leading to economic losses for farmers. Dietary considerations are hugely important in attaining these objectives. This paper reviews studies investigating the impact of additional vitamin supplementation on stress reduction in pigs. Vitamin A can be beneficial in counteracting viral and parasitic threats. Vitamin B can be a potential solution for reproductive issues, but it might also be beneficial in reducing the effects of inappropriate nutrition. Vitamin C plays a vital role in reducing the effects of heat stress or exposure to toxins in pigs. Vitamin D proves to be beneficial in addressing stress induced mostly by infections and weaning, while vitamin E has been shown to mitigate the effects of toxins, heat stress, or transport stress. This review highlights the potential benefits of these dietary antioxidants in maintaining pig health, enhancing productivity, and counteracting the adverse effects of various stressors. Understanding the role of vitamins in pig nutrition and stress management is vital for optimising farm animal welfare and production efficiency.

Development of an Imidazopyridazine-Based MNK1/2 Inhibitor for the Treatment of Lymphoma

The mitogen-activated protein kinase-interacting protein kinases (MNKs) are the only kinases known to phosphorylate eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) at Ser209, which plays a significant role in cap-dependent translation. Dysregulation of the MNK/eIF4E axis has been found in various solid tumors and hematological malignancies, including diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Herein, structure-activity relationship studies and docking models determined that 20j exhibits excellent MNK1/2 inhibitory activity, stability, and hERG safety. 20j exhibits strong and broad antiproliferative activity against different cancer cell lines, especially GCB-DLBCL DOHH2. 20j suppresses the phosphorylation of eIF4E in Hela cells (IC50 = 90.5 nM) and downregulates the phosphorylation of eIF4E and 4E-BP1 in A549 cells. In vivo studies first revealed that ibrutinib enhances the antitumor effect of 20j without side effects in a DOHH2 xenograft model. This study provided a solid foundation for the future development of a MNK inhibitor for GCB-DLBCL treatment.

Activating SRC/MAPK signaling via 5-HT1A receptor contributes to the effect of vilazodone on improving thrombocytopenia

Thrombocytopenia caused by long-term radiotherapy and chemotherapy exists in cancer treatment. Previous research demonstrates that 5-Hydroxtrayptamine (5-HT) and its receptors induce the formation of megakaryocytes (MKs) and platelets. However, the relationships between 5-HT1A receptor (5-HTR1A) and MKs is unclear so far. We screened and investigated the mechanism of vilazodone as a 5-HTR1A partial agonist in promoting MK differentiation and evaluated its therapeutic effect in thrombocytopenia. We employed a drug screening model based on machine learning (ML) to screen the megakaryocytopoiesis activity of Vilazodone (VLZ). The effects of VLZ on megakaryocytopoiesis were verified in HEL and Meg-01 cells. Tg (itga2b: eGFP) zebrafish was performed to analyze the alterations in thrombopoiesis. Moreover, we established a thrombocytopenia mice model to investigate how VLZ administration accelerates platelet recovery and function. We carried out network pharmacology, Western blot, and immunofluorescence to demonstrate the potential targets and pathway of VLZ. VLZ has been predicted to have a potential biological action. Meanwhile, VLZ administration promotes MK differentiation and thrombopoiesis in cells and zebrafish models. Progressive experiments showed that VLZ has a potential therapeutic effect on radiation-induced thrombocytopenia in vivo. The network pharmacology and associated mechanism study indicated that SRC and MAPK signaling are both involved in the processes of megakaryopoiesis facilitated by VLZ. Furthermore, the expression of 5-HTR1A during megakaryocyte differentiation is closely related to the activation of SRC and MAPK. Our findings demonstrated that the expression of 5-HTR1A on MK, VLZ could bind to the 5-HTR1A receptor and further regulate the SRC/MAPK signaling pathway to facilitate megakaryocyte differentiation and platelet production, which provides new insights into the alternative therapeutic options for thrombocytopenia.

Mag-Net: Rapid enrichment of membrane-bound particles enables high coverage quantitative analysis of the plasma proteome

Membrane-bound particles in plasma are composed of exosomes, microvesicles, and apoptotic bodies and represent ~1-2% of the total protein composition. Proteomic interrogation of this subset of plasma proteins augments the representation of tissue-specific proteins, representing a "liquid biopsy," while enabling the detection of proteins that would otherwise be beyond the dynamic range of liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry of unfractionated plasma. We have developed an enrichment strategy (Mag-Net) using hyper-porous strong-anion exchange magnetic microparticles to sieve membrane-bound particles from plasma. The Mag-Net method is robust, reproducible, inexpensive, and requires <100 μL plasma input. Coupled to a quantitative data-independent mass spectrometry analytical strategy, we demonstrate that we can collect results for >37,000 peptides from >4,000 plasma proteins with high precision. Using this analytical pipeline on a small cohort of patients with neurodegenerative disease and healthy age-matched controls, we discovered 204 proteins that differentiate (q-value < 0.05) patients with Alzheimer's disease dementia (ADD) from those without ADD. Our method also discovered 310 proteins that were different between Parkinson's disease and those with either ADD or healthy cognitively normal individuals. Using machine learning we were able to distinguish between ADD and not ADD with a mean ROC AUC = 0.98 ± 0.06.

Identification of mapk genes, and their expression profiles in response to low salinity stress, in cobia (Rachycentron canadum)

Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) are a class of protein kinases that regulate various physiological processes, and play a crucial role in maintaining the osmotic equilibrium of fish. The objective of this study was to identify and characterize the mapk family genes in cobia (Rachycentron canadum) and examine their expression profiles under different low salinity stress regimes (acute: from 30‰ to 10‰ in 1 h, sub-chronic: from 30‰ to 10‰ over 4 d). A total of 12 cobia mapk genes (Rcmapks) were identified and cloned, including six erk subfamily genes (Rcmapk1/3/4/6/7/15), three jnk subfamily genes (Rcmapk8/9/10) and three p38 mapk subfamily genes (Rcmapk 11/13/14). Domain analysis indicated that the RcMAPKs possessed the typical domains including S_TKc and PKc_like domain. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the Rcmapks were most closely related to those of the turbot (Scophthalmus maximus). The tissue distribution of mapk genes in adult cobia and the expression patterns of Rcmapks under different low salinity stress regimes were investigated using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). The results revealed that Rcmapk3/9/10/11/13/14 exhibited a relatively broad expression distribution across 14 different tissues. For all these genes the highest expression level was in the brain, except for Rcmapk14 (highly expressed in the stomach, gill, and skin). The genes Rcmapk1/6/15 showed significantly higher expression in the testis. Under acute low salinity stress, expression of Rcmapk1/3/6/7/9/11/13/14 was significantly altered in the gill, intestine, and trunk kidney, however, the aforementioned genes exhibited very different expression patterns among the three tissues. In the gill, most of the genes from the erk (Rcmapk3/6/7) and p38 mapk subfamily (Rcmapk11/13/14) were significantly up-regulated at almost all the time points (P < 0.05); Similarly, the expression of Rcmapk3/9/11/13/14 genes were significantly increased in the trunk kidney; while in the intestine, most of the altered genes (Rcmapk6/7/9/11/13/14) were significantly down-regulated at 1 h. Following the sub-chronic low salinity stress, expression of Rcmapk1/3/6/7/9/11/13/14 genes were significantly altered in all three tissues. These findings provide important reference data for elucidating the roles of cobia mapk family genes in response to low salinity stress.

Decoding the mechanism of earthworm extract against wounds: an integrated metabolomics and network pharmacology study

Earthworms are used to cure wounds in Chinese villages for thousands of years. Recently, scientists realized their extracts could promote wound healing and they have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-apoptosis, and anti-microbial properties, but its mechanism of promoting wound healing remains unclear. In the presented study, electronic literature databases and LC-MS/MS were used to determine earthworms' ingredients and differential metabolites. Swiss Target Prediction database was used for ingredients' target prediction and wound disease-relevant genes were found from GeneCards, OMIM, and DrugBank databases. Network pharmacology was conducted to demonstrate filtering hub targets, biological functions, and the signaling pathways of earthworms extract against wounds. Molecular docking and metabolism analysis were used to look for core target genes and key bioactive molecules from earthworms. Finally, the investigation shows 5 most important signal pathways, 5 core genes, and 6 bioactive ingredients-related cell-cell adhesion, cell proliferation, and cell migration processes could be affected by earthworms' extract. On 3rd day, the extract could regulate HIF1A and EGFR targets to make the differences of quantities of 4-pyridoxate, tetradecanoic acid, and L-kynurenine. While on 7th day, the regulation refers 6 earthworms' bioactive ingredients, 4 core genes (CTNNB1, EGFR, SRC, and CASP3), and 4 differential metabolites (4-hydoxy-2-quinolinecarboxylic acid, urocanate, deoxyinosine, creatine, and sn-glycerol-3-phosphocholine). on 14th day, 2 core genes (EGFR, SRC) are influenced in the biological processes. Briefly, we found that 6 ingredients from earthworms have most bioactive and 5 core genes play an important role in promoting wound-healing processes. These discovers indicates earthworms could against wound via AGE-RAGE, PI3K-Akt, HIF1A, MAPK, and Axon guidance pathways.

Echinacea purpurea root extract mitigates hepatotoxicity, genotoxicity, and ultrastructural changes induced by hexavalent chromium via oxidative stress suppression

Environmental and occupational exposure to hexavalent chromium (CrVI) is mostly renowned as a possible hepatotoxic in mammals. Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench, a phenolic-rich plant, is recurrently used for its therapeutic properties. Therefore, this investigation was done to explore whether E. purpurea (EP) root extract would have any potential health benefits against an acute dose of CrVI-induced oxidative damage and hepatotoxicity. Results revealed that GC-MS analysis of EP root extract has 26 identified components with a significant amount of total phenolic and flavonoid contents. Twenty-four Male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: control, EP (50 mg/kg BW/day for 21 days), CrVI (15 mg/kg BW as a single intraperitoneal dosage), and EP + CrVI, respectively. Rats treated with CrVI displayed a remarkable rise in oxidative stress markers (TBARS, H2O2, PCC), bilirubin, and lactate dehydrogenase activity, and a marked decrease in enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, transaminases, and alkaline phosphatase activities, and serum protein level. Also, CrVI administration induced apoptosis and inflammation in addition to histological and ultrastructural abnormalities in the liver tissue. The examined parameters were improved significantly in rats pretreated with EP and then intoxicated with CrVI. Conclusively, EP had a potent antioxidant activity and could be used in the modulation of CrVI-induced hepatotoxicity.

Protective effect of hygrolansamycin C against corticosterone-induced toxicity and oxidative stress-mediated via autophagy and the MAPK signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Excessive stress, a major problem in modern societies, affects people of all ages worldwide. Corticosterone is one of the most abundant hormones secreted during stressful conditions and is associated with various dysfunctions in the body. In particular, we aimed to investigate the protective effects of hygrolansamycin C (HYGC) against corticosterone-induced cellular stress, a manifestation of excessive stress prevalent in contemporary societies.

METHODS

We isolated HYGC from Streptomyces sp. KCB17JA11 and subjected PC12 cells to corticosterone-induced stress. The effects of HYGC were assessed by measuring autophagy and the expression of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphorylation-related genes. We used established cellular and molecular techniques to analyze protein levels and pathways.

RESULTS

HYGC effectively protected cells against corticosterone-induced injury. Specifically, it significantly reduced corticosterone-induced oxidative stress and inhibited the expression of autophagy-related proteins induced by corticosterone, which provided mechanistic insight into the protective effects of HYGC. At the signaling level, HYGC suppressed c-Jun N-terminal kinase and extracellular signal-regulated kinase phosphorylation and p38 activation.

CONCLUSIONS

HYGC is a promising candidate to counteract corticosterone-induced apoptosis and oxidative stress. Autophagy and MAPK pathway inhibition contribute to the protective effects of HYGC. Our findings highlight the potential of HYGC as a therapeutic agent for stress-related disorders and serve as a stepping stone for further exploration and development of stress management strategies.

NLRP1 restricts porcine deltacoronavirus infection via IL-11 inhibiting the phosphorylation of the ERK signaling pathway

Continuously emerging highly pathogenic coronaviruses remain a major threat to human and animal health. Porcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV) is a newly emerging enterotropic swine coronavirus that causes large-scale outbreaks of severe diarrhea disease in piglets. Unlike other porcine coronaviruses, PDCoV has a wide range of species tissue tropism, including primary human cells, which poses a significant risk of cross-species transmission. Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor (NLR) family pyrin domain-containing 1 (NLRP1) has a key role in linking host innate immunity to microbes and the regulation of inflammatory pathways. We now report a role for NLRP1 in the control of PDCoV infection. Overexpression of NLRP1 remarkably suppressed PDCoV infection, whereas knockout of NLRP1 led to a significant increase in PDCoV replication. A mechanistic study revealed that NLRP1 suppressed PDCoV replication in cells by upregulating IL-11 expression, which in turn inhibited the phosphorylation of the ERK signaling pathway. Furthermore, the ERK phosphorylation inhibitor U0126 effectively hindered PDCoV replication in pigs. Together, our results demonstrated that NLRP1 exerted an anti-PDCoV effect by IL-11-mediated inhibition of the phosphorylation of the ERK signaling pathway, providing a novel antiviral signal axis of NLRP1-IL-11-ERK. This study expands our understanding of the regulatory network of NLRP1 in the host defense against virus infection and provides a new insight into the treatment of coronaviruses and the development of corresponding drugs.IMPORTANCECoronavirus, which mainly infects gastrointestinal and respiratory epithelial cells in vivo, poses a huge threat to both humans and animals. Although porcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV) is known to primarily cause fatal diarrhea in piglets, reports detected in plasma samples from Haitian children emphasize the potential risk of animal-to-human spillover. Finding effective therapeutics against coronaviruses is crucial for controlling viral infection. Nucleotide-binding oligomerization-like receptor (NLR) family pyrin domain-containing 1 (NLRP1), a key regulatory factor in the innate immune system, is highly expressed in epithelial cells and associated with the pathogenesis of viruses. We demonstrate here that NLRP1 inhibits the infection of the intestinal coronavirus PDCoV through IL-11-mediated phosphorylation inhibition of the ERK signaling pathway. Furthermore, the ERK phosphorylation inhibitor can control the infection of PDCoV in pigs. Our study emphasizes the importance of NLRP1 as an immune regulatory factor and may open up new avenues for the treatment of coronavirus infection.

Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of MNK-PROTACs

Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)-interacting kinases (MNKs) can regulate cellular mRNA translation by controlling the phosphorylation of the eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E (eIF4E), which plays an important role in tumor initiation, development, and metastasis. Although small-molecule MNK inhibitors have made significant breakthroughs in the treatment of various malignancies, their clinical application can be limited by drug resistance, target selectivity and other factors. The strategy of MNK-PROTACs which selectively degrades MNK kinases provides a new approach for developing small-molecule drugs for related diseases. In this study, DS33059, a small-molecule compound modified based on the ongoing clinical trials drug ETC-206, was chosen as the target protein ligand. A series of novel MNK-PROTACs were designed, synthesized and evaluated biological activity. Several compounds showed good inhibitory activities against MNK1/2. Besides, compounds exhibited moderate to excellent anti-proliferative activity in A549 and TMD-8 cells in vitro. In particular, compound II-5 significantly inhibited A549 (IC50 = 1.79 μM) and TMD-8 (IC50 = 1.07 μM) cells. The protein degradation assay showed that compound II-5 had good capability to degrade MNK1. The MNK-PROTACs strategy represents a new direction in treating tumors and deserves further exploration.

Epithelial MAPK signaling directs endothelial NRF2 signaling and IL-8 secretion in a tri-culture model of the alveolar-microvascular interface following diesel exhaust particulate (DEP) exposure

BACKGROUND

Particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5) deposition in the lung's alveolar capillary region (ACR) is significantly associated with respiratory disease development, yet the molecular mechanisms are not completely understood. Adverse responses that promote respiratory disease development involve orchestrated, intercellular signaling between multiple cell types within the ACR. We investigated the molecular mechanisms elicited in response to PM2.5 deposition in the ACR, in an in vitro model that enables intercellular communication between multiple resident cell types of the ACR.

METHODS

An in vitro, tri-culture model of the ACR, incorporating alveolar-like epithelial cells (NCI-H441), pulmonary fibroblasts (IMR90), and pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (HULEC) was developed to investigate cell type-specific molecular responses to a PM2.5 exposure in an in-vivo-like model. This tri-culture in vitro model was termed the alveolar capillary region exposure (ACRE) model. Alveolar epithelial cells in the ACRE model were exposed to a suspension of diesel exhaust particulates (DEP) (20 µg/cm2) with an average diameter of 2.5 µm. Alveolar epithelial barrier formation, and transcriptional and protein expression alterations in the directly exposed alveolar epithelial and the underlying endothelial cells were investigated over a 24 h DEP exposure.

RESULTS

Alveolar epithelial barrier formation was not perturbed by the 24 h DEP exposure. Despite no alteration in barrier formation, we demonstrate that alveolar epithelial DEP exposure induces transcriptional and protein changes in both the alveolar epithelial cells and the underlying microvascular endothelial cells. Specifically, we show that the underlying microvascular endothelial cells develop redox dysfunction and increase proinflammatory cytokine secretion. Furthermore, we demonstrate that alveolar epithelial MAPK signaling modulates the activation of NRF2 and IL-8 secretion in the underlying microvascular endothelial cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Endothelial redox dysfunction and increased proinflammatory cytokine secretion are two common events in respiratory disease development. These findings highlight new, cell-type specific roles of the alveolar epithelium and microvascular endothelium in the ACR in respiratory disease development following PM2.5 exposure. Ultimately, these data expand our current understanding of respiratory disease development following particle exposures and illustrate the utility of multicellular in vitro systems for investigating respiratory tract health.

Piperine improves the quality of porcine oocytes by reducing oxidative stress

Oxidative stress caused by light and high temperature arises during in vitro maturation (IVM), resulting in low-quality embryos compared with those obtained in vivo. To overcome this problem, we investigated the influence of piperine (PIP) treatment during maturation of porcine oocytes on subsequent embryo development in vitro. Porcine oocytes were cultured in IVM medium supplemented with 0, 50, 100, 200, or 400 μM PIP. After parthenogenetic activation, the blastocyst (BL) formation was significantly higher and the apoptosis rate was significantly lower using 200 μM PIP-treated oocytes (200 PIP). In the 200 PIP group, the level of reactive oxygen species at the metaphase II stage was decreased, accompanied by an increased level of glutathione and increased expression of antioxidant processes (Nrf2, CAT, HO-1, SOD1, and SOD2). Consistently, chromosome misalignment and aberrant spindle organization were alleviated and phosphorylated p44/42 mitogen-activated protein kinase activity was increased in the 200 PIP group. Expression of development-related (CDX2, NANOG, POU5F1, and SOX2), anti-apoptotic (BCL2L1 and BIRC5), and pro-apoptotic (BAK, FAS, and CASP3) processes was altered in the 200 PIP group. Ultimately, embryo development was improved in the 200 PIP group following somatic cell nuclear transfer. These findings suggest that PIP improves the quality of porcine oocytes by reducing oxidative stress, which inevitably arises via IVM. In-depth mechanistic studies of porcine oocytes will improve the efficiencies of assisted reproductive technologies.

Neurophysiological, histological, and behavioral characterization of animal models of distraction spinal cord injury: a systematic review

Distraction spinal cord injury is caused by some degree of distraction or longitudinal tension on the spinal cord and commonly occurs in patients who undergo corrective operation for severe spinal deformity. With the increased degree and duration of distraction, spinal cord injuries become more serious in terms of their neurophysiology, histology, and behavior. Very few studies have been published on the specific characteristics of distraction spinal cord injury. In this study, we systematically review 22 related studies involving animal models of distraction spinal cord injury, focusing particularly on the neurophysiological, histological, and behavioral characteristics of this disease. In addition, we summarize the mechanisms underlying primary and secondary injuries caused by distraction spinal cord injury and clarify the effects of different degrees and durations of distraction on the primary injuries associated with spinal cord injury. We provide new concepts for the establishment of a model of distraction spinal cord injury and related basic research, and provide reference guidelines for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of this disease.

Therapeutic potential of a prominent dihydroxyflavanone pinocembrin for osteolytic bone disease: In vitro and in vivo evidence

Background/objective

As the pivotal cellular mediators of bone resorption and pathological bone remodeling, osteoclasts have emerged as a prominent target for anti-resorptive interventions. Pinocembrin (PIN), a predominant flavonoid found in damiana, honey, fingerroot, and propolis, has been recognized for its potential therapeutic effects in osteolysis. The purpose of our project is to investigate the potential of PIN to prevent bone resorption in ovariectomized (OVX) mice by suppressing osteoclast production through its underlying mechanisms.

Methods

The study commenced by employing protein-ligand molecular docking to ascertain the specific interaction between PIN and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) ligand (RANKL). Subsequently, PIN was introduced to bone marrow macrophages (BMMs) under the stimulation of RANKL. The impact of PIN on osteoclastic activity was assessed through the utilization of a positive TRAcP staining kit and a hydroxyapatite resorption assay. Furthermore, the study investigated the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in osteoclasts induced by RANKL using H2DCFDA. To delve deeper into the underlying mechanisms, molecular cascades triggered by RANKL, including NF-κB, ROS, calcium oscillations, and NFATc1-mediated signaling pathways, were explored using Luciferase gene report, western blot analysis, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Moreover, an estrogen-deficient osteoporosis murine model was established to evaluate the therapeutic effects of PIN in vivo.

Results

In this study, we elucidated the profound inhibitory effects of PIN on osteoclastogenesis and bone resorption, achieved through repression of NF-κB and NFATc1-mediated signaling pathways. Notably, PIN also exhibited potent anti-oxidative properties by mitigating RANKL-induced ROS generation and augmenting activities of ROS-scavenging enzymes, ultimately leading to a reduction in intracellular ROS levels. Moreover, PIN effectively abrogated the expression of osteoclast-specific marker genes (Acp5, Cathepsin K, Atp6v0d2, Nfatc1, c-fos, and Mmp9), further underscoring its inhibitory impact on osteoclast differentiation and function. Additionally, employing an in vivo mouse model, we demonstrated that PIN effectively prevented osteoclast-induced bone loss resultant from estrogen deficiency.

Conclusion

Our findings highlight the potent inhibitory effects of PIN on osteoclastogenesis, bone resorption, and RANKL-induced signaling pathways, thereby establishing PIN as a promising therapeutic candidate for the prevention and management of osteolytic bone diseases.

The translational potential of this article

PIN serves as a promising therapeutic agent for the prevention and management of osteolytic bone diseases and holds promise for future clinical applications in addressing conditions characterized by excessive bone resorption. PIN is a natural compound found in various sources, including damiana, honey, fingerroot, and propolis. Its widespread availability and potential for therapeutic use make it an attractive candidate for further investigation and development as a clinical intervention.

Repurposing Niclosamide as a plausible neurotherapeutic in autism spectrum disorders, targeting mitochondrial dysfunction: a strong hypothesis

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are a complex set of neurodevelopmental manifestations which present in the form of social and communication deficits. Affecting a growing proportion of children worldwide, the exact pathogenesis of this disorder is not very well understood, and multiple signaling pathways have been implicated. Among them, the ERK/MAPK pathway is critical in a number of cellular processes, and the normal functioning of neuronal cells also depends on this cascade. As such, recent studies have increasingly focused on the impact this pathway has on the development of autistic symptoms. Improper ERK signaling is suspected to be involved in neurotoxicity, and the same might be implicated in autism spectrum disorders (ASD), through a variety of effects including mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress. Niclosamide, an antihelminthic and anti-inflammatory agent, has shown potential in inhibiting this pathway, and countering the effects shown by its overactivity in inflammation. While it has previously been evaluated in other neurological disorders like Alzheimer's Disease and Parkinson's Disease, as well as various cancers by targeting ERK/MAPK, it's efficacy in autism has not yet been evaluated. In this article, we attempt to discuss the potential role of the ERK/MAPK pathway in the pathogenesis of ASD, specifically through mitochondrial damage, before moving to the therapeutic potential of niclosamide in the disorder, mediated by the inhibition of this pathway and its detrimental effects of neuronal development.

Exploring the therapeutic potential of isoorientin in the treatment of osteoporosis: a study using network pharmacology and experimental validation

BACKGROUND

Isoorientin (ISO) is a glycosylated flavonoid with antitumor, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. However, its effects on bone metabolism remain largely unknown.

METHODS

In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of ISO on receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL)-induced osteoclast formation in vitro and bone loss in post-ovariectomy (OVX) rats, as well as to elucidate the underlying mechanism. First, network pharmacology analysis indicated that MAPK1 and AKT1 may be potential therapeutic targets of ISO and that ISO has potential regulatory effects on the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT) pathways, as well as oxidative stress. ISO was added to RAW264.7 cells stimulated by RANKL, and its effects on osteoclast differentiation were evaluated using tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining, TRAP activity measurement, and F-actin ring analysis. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in osteoclasts was detected using a ROS assay kit. The effects of ISO on RANKL-triggered molecular cascade response were further investigated by Western blotting, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, and immunofluorescence staining. In addition, the therapeutic effects of ISO were evaluated in vivo.

RESULTS

ISO inhibited osteoclastogenesis in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. Mechanistically, ISO downregulated the expression of the main transcription factor for osteoclast differentiation by inhibiting MAPK and PI3K/AKT1 signaling pathways. Moreover, ISO exhibited protective effects in OVX-induced bone loss rats. This was consistent with the results derived from network pharmacology.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest a potential therapeutic utility of ISO in the management of osteoclast-associated bone diseases, including osteoporosis.

Palmitic acid in type 2 diabetes mellitus promotes atherosclerotic plaque vulnerability via macrophage Dll4 signaling

Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus are increasingly susceptible to atherosclerotic plaque vulnerability, leading to severe cardiovascular events. In this study, we demonstrate that elevated serum levels of palmitic acid, a type of saturated fatty acid, are significantly linked to this enhanced vulnerability in patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Through a combination of human cohort studies and animal models, our research identifies a key mechanistic pathway: palmitic acid induces macrophage Delta-like ligand 4 signaling, which in turn triggers senescence in vascular smooth muscle cells. This process is critical for plaque instability due to reduced collagen synthesis and deposition. Importantly, our findings reveal that macrophage-specific knockout of Delta-like ligand 4 in atherosclerotic mice leads to reduced plaque burden and improved stability, highlighting the potential of targeting this pathway. These insights offer a promising direction for developing therapeutic strategies to mitigate cardiovascular risks in patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

Electric field modulation of ERK dynamics shows dependency on waveform and timing

Different exogenous electric fields (EF) can guide cell migration, disrupt proliferation, and program cell development. Studies have shown that many of these processes were initiated at the cell membrane, but the mechanism has been unclear, especially for conventionally non-excitable cells. In this study, we focus on the electrostatic aspects of EF coupling with the cell membrane by eliminating Faradaic processes using dielectric-coated microelectrodes. Our data unveil a distinctive biphasic response of the ERK signaling pathway of epithelial cells (MCF10A) to alternate current (AC) EF. The ERK signal exhibits both inhibition and activation phases, with the former triggered by a lower threshold of AC EF, featuring a swifter peaking time and briefer refractory periods than the later-occurring activation phase, induced at a higher threshold. Interestingly, the biphasic ERK responses are sensitive to the waveform and timing of EF stimulation pulses, depicting the characteristics of electrostatic and dissipative interactions. Blocker tests and correlated changes of active Ras on the cell membrane with ERK signals indicated that both EGFR and Ras were involved in the rich ERK dynamics induced by EF. We propose that the frequency-dependent dielectric relaxation process could be an important mechanism to couple EF energy to the cell membrane region and modulate membrane protein-initiated signaling pathways, which can be further explored to precisely control cell behavior and fate with high temporal and spatial resolution.

Granzyme B promotes matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) release from gingival fibroblasts in a PAR1- and Erk1/2-dependent manner: A novel role in periodontal inflammation

OBJECTIVE

To gain insights into how proteases signal to connective tissues cells in the periodontium.

BACKGROUND

The connective tissue degradation observed in periodontitis is largely due to matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) release by gingival fibroblasts. Granzyme B (GzmB) is a serine protease whose role in periodontitis is undefined.

METHODS

Human gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) samples were obtained from sites with periodontal disease and healthy control sites. GzmB was quantified in the GCF ([GzmB]GCF ) by ELISA. Gingival fibroblasts (GF) were cultured in the presence or absence of recombinant GzmB. Culture supernatants were analyzed by ELISA to quantify GzmB-induced release of interstitial collagenase (MMP-1). In some experiments, cells were pre-treated with the inhibitor PD98059 to block MEK/ERK signaling. The protease-activated receptor-1 (PAR-1) was blocked with ATAP-2 neutralizing antibody prior to GzmB stimulation. Systemic MMP-1 levels were measured in plasma from wild-type (WT) and granzyme-B-knockout (GzmB-/- ) mice.

RESULTS

The [GzmB]GCF in human samples was ~4-5 fold higher at sites of periodontal disease (gingivitis/periodontitis) compared to healthy control sites, suggesting an association between GzmB and localized matrix degradation. GzmB induced a ~4-5-fold increase in MMP-1 secretion by cultured fibroblasts. GzmB induced phosphorylation of Erk1/2, which was abrogated by PD98059. GzmB-induced upregulation of MMP-1 secretion was also reduced by PD98059. Blockade of PAR-1 function by ATAP-2 abrogated the increase in MMP-1 secretion by GF. Circulating MMP-1 was similar in WT and GzmB-/- mice, suggesting that GzmB's effects on MMP-1 release are not reflected systemically.

CONCLUSION

These data point to a novel GzmB-driven signaling pathway in fibroblasts in which MMP-1 secretion is upregulated in a PAR1- and Erk1/2-dependent manner.

Deciphering the role of KRAS gene in oncogenesis: Focus on signaling pathways, genetic alterations in 3'UTR, KRAS specific miRNAs and therapeutic interventions

Cancer is a significant cause of death after cardiovascular disease. The genomic, epigenetic and environmental factors have been found to be the risk factor for the disease. The most important genes that develop cancer are oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes. Among oncogenes, KRAS has emerged as a significant player in the development of many cancers. Dysregulation of the RAS signaling pathway either on account of mutation in significant genes involved in the pathway or aberrant expression of different miRNAs targeting these genes including KRAS. The focus is also on the alterations in 3'UTR of the KRAS gene sequence as well as the changes in the miRNA encoding genes especially the one targeting the KRAS gene. Efforts are also being put in to target the dysregulated KRAS gene as a therapeutic approach to treat different cancers. However, there are some challenges like resistance to KRAS inhibitors that need to be addressed.

Involvement of Sep38β in the Insecticidal Activity of Bacillus thuringiensis against Beet Armyworm, Spodoptera exigua (Lepidoptera)

The p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) are associated with insect immunity, tissue repair, and the insecticidal activity of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt). Here, a p38 MAPK family gene (Sep38β) was identified from Spodoptera exigua. Among the developmental stages, the transcription level of Sep38β was the highest in egg, followed by that in prepupa and pupa. Sep38β expression peaked in Malpighian tubules and the hemolymph of fifth instar larvae. Knockdown of Sep38β or injection of SB203580 (a p38 MAPK inhibitor) significantly downregulated the SeDUOX expression and reactive oxygen species (ROS) level in the midgut, accounting for deterioration of the midgut to scavenge pathogens and enhancement of Bt insecticidal activity. In conclusion, all the results demonstrate that Sep38β regulates the immune-related ROS level in the insect midgut, which suppresses the insecticidal activity of Bt against S. exigua by 17-22%. Our study highlights that Sep38β is essential for insect immunity and the insecticidal activity of Bt to S. exigua and is a potential target for pest control.

Research Advances on Swine Acute Diarrhea Syndrome Coronavirus

Swine acute diarrhea syndrome coronavirus (SADS-CoV) is a virulent pathogen that causes acute diarrhea in piglets. The virus was first discovered in Guangdong Province, China, in 2017 and has since emerged in Jiangxi, Fujian, and Guangxi Provinces. The outbreak exhibited a localized and sporadic pattern, with no discernable temporal continuity. The virus can infect human progenitor cells and demonstrates considerable potential for cross-species transmission, representing a potential risk for zoonotic transmission. Therefore, continuous surveillance of and comprehensive research on SADS-CoV are imperative. This review provides an overview of the temporal and evolutionary features of SADS-CoV outbreaks, focusing on the structural characteristics of the virus, which serve as the basis for discussing its potential for interspecies transmission. Additionally, the review summarizes virus-host interactions, including the effects on host cells, as well as apoptotic and autophagic behaviors, and discusses prevention and treatment modalities for this viral infection.

Liquid application dosing alters the physiology of air-liquid interface (ALI) primary human bronchial epithelial cell/lung fibroblast co-cultures and in vitro testing relevant endpoints

Differentiated primary human bronchial epithelial cell (dpHBEC) cultures grown under air-liquid interface (ALI) conditions exhibit key features of the human respiratory tract and are thus critical for respiratory research as well as efficacy and toxicity testing of inhaled substances (e.g., consumer products, industrial chemicals, and pharmaceuticals). Many inhalable substances (e.g., particles, aerosols, hydrophobic substances, reactive substances) have physiochemical properties that challenge their evaluation under ALI conditions in vitro. Evaluation of the effects of these methodologically challenging chemicals (MCCs) in vitro is typically conducted by "liquid application," involving the direct application of a solution containing the test substance to the apical, air-exposed surface of dpHBEC-ALI cultures. We report that the application of liquid to the apical surface of a dpHBEC-ALI co-culture model results in significant reprogramming of the dpHBEC transcriptome and biological pathway activity, alternative regulation of cellular signaling pathways, increased secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and growth factors, and decreased epithelial barrier integrity. Given the prevalence of liquid application in the delivery of test substances to ALI systems, understanding its effects provides critical infrastructure for the use of in vitro systems in respiratory research as well as in the safety and efficacy testing of inhalable substances.

Unraveling the mechanisms of intervertebral disc degeneration: an exploration of the p38 MAPK signaling pathway

Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration (IDD) is a worldwide spinal degenerative disease. Low back pain (LBP) is frequently caused by a variety of conditions brought on by IDD, including IVD herniation and spinal stenosis, etc. These conditions bring substantial physical and psychological pressure and economic burden to patients. IDD is closely tied with the structural or functional changes of the IVD tissue and can be caused by various complex factors like senescence, genetics, and trauma. The IVD dysfunction and structural changes can result from extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation, differentiation, inflammation, oxidative stress, mechanical stress, and senescence of IVD cells. At present, the treatment of IDD is basically to alleviate the symptoms, but not from the pathophysiological changes of IVD. Interestingly, the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) signaling pathway is involved in many processes of IDD, including inflammation, ECM degradation, apoptosis, senescence, proliferation, oxidative stress, and autophagy. These activities in degenerated IVD tissue are closely relevant to the development trend of IDD. Hence, the p38 MAPK signaling pathway may be a fitting curative target for IDD. In order to better understand the pathophysiological alterations of the intervertebral disc tissue during IDD and offer potential paths for targeted treatments for intervertebral disc degeneration, this article reviews the purpose of the p38 MAPK signaling pathway in IDD.

Discovery of pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidines as novel mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 3 (MKK3) inhibitors

The dual-specificity protein kinase MKK3 has been implicated in tumor cell proliferation and survival, yet its precise role in cancer remains inconclusive. A critical step in elucidating the kinase's involvement in disease biology is the identification of potent, cell-permeable kinase inhibitors. Presently, MKK3 lacks a dedicated tool compound for these purposes, along with validated methods for the facile screening, identification, and optimization of inhibitors. In this study, we have developed a TR-FRET-based enzymatic assay for the detection of MKK3 activity in vitro and a BRET-based assay to assess ligand binding to this enzyme within intact human cells. These assays were instrumental in identifying hit compounds against MKK3 that share a common chemical scaffold, sourced from a library of bioactive kinase inhibitors. Initial hits were subsequently expanded through the synthesis of novel analogs. The resulting structure-activity relationship (SAR) was rationalized using molecular dynamics simulations against a homology model of MKK3. We expect our findings to expedite the development of novel, potent, selective, and bioactive inhibitors, thus facilitating investigations into MKK3's role in various cancers.

The cell cycle, autophagy, and cell wall integrity pathway jointly governed by MoSwe1 in Magnaporthe oryzae

The cell cycle is pivotal to cellular differentiation in plant pathogenic fungi. Cell wall integrity (CWI) signaling plays an essential role in coping with cell wall stress. Autophagy is a degradation process in which cells decompose their components to recover macromolecules and provide energy under stress conditions. However, the specific association between cell cycle, autophagy and CWI pathway remains unclear in model pathogenic fungi Magnaporthe oryzae. Here, we have identified MoSwe1 as the conserved component of the cell cycle in the rice blast fungus. We have found that MoSwe1 targets MoMps1, a conserved critical MAP kinase of the CWI pathway, through protein phosphorylation that positively regulates CWI signaling. The CWI pathway is abnormal in the ΔMoswe1 mutant with cell cycle arrest. In addition, we provided evidence that MoSwe1 positively regulates autophagy by interacting with MoAtg17 and MoAtg18, the core autophagy proteins. Moreover, the S phase initiation was earlier, the morphology of conidia and appressoria was abnormal, and septum formation and glycogen degradation were impaired in the ΔMoswe1 mutant. Our research defines that MoSWE1 regulation of G1/S transition, CWI pathway, and autophagy supports its specific requirement for appressorium development and virulence in plant pathogenic fungi. Video Abstract.

Drugging the undruggable: Advances in targeting KRAS signaling in solid tumors

Cancer remains the leading cause of global mortality, prompting a paradigm shift in its treatment and outcomes with the advent of targeted therapies. Among the most prevalent mutations in RAS-driven cancers, Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog (KRAS) mutations account for approximately 86% of cases worldwide, particularly in lung, pancreatic, and colon cancers, contributing to poor prognosis and reduced overall survival. Despite numerous efforts to understand the biology of KRAS mutants and their pivotal role in cancer development, the lack of well-defined drug-binding pockets has deemed KRAS an "undruggable" therapeutic target, presenting significant challenges for researchers and clinicians alike. Through significant biochemical and technological advances, the last decade has witnessed promising breakthroughs in targeted therapies for KRAS-mutated lung, colon, and pancreatic cancers, marking a critical turning point in the field. In this chapter, we provide an overview of the characteristics of KRAS mutations across various solid tumors, highlighting ongoing cutting-edge research on the immune microenvironment, the development of KRAS-driven mice models, and the recent progress in the exploration of specific KRAS mutant-targeted therapeutic approaches. By comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of KRAS signaling in solid tumors and the latest therapeutic developments, this chapter will shed light on the potential for novel therapeutic strategies to combat KRAS-driven tumors and improve patient outcomes.

p38 Molecular Targeting for Next-Generation Multiple Myeloma Therapy

Resistance to therapy and disease progression are the main causes of mortality in most cancers. In particular, the development of resistance is an important limitation affecting the efficacy of therapeutic alternatives for cancer, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy. Signaling pathways are largely responsible for the mechanisms of resistance to cancer treatment and progression, and multiple myeloma is no exception. p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38) is downstream of several signaling pathways specific to treatment resistance and progression. Therefore, in recent years, developing therapeutic alternatives directed at p38 has been of great interest, in order to reverse chemotherapy resistance and prevent progression. In this review, we discuss recent findings on the role of p38, including recent advances in our understanding of its expression and activity as well as its isoforms, and its possible clinical role based on the mechanisms of resistance and progression in multiple myeloma.