Blocking the REDD1/TXNIP axis ameliorates LPS-induced vascular endothelial cell injury through repressing oxidative stress and apoptosis

A biomimetic tri-phasic scaffold with spatiotemporal patterns of gastrodin to regulate hierarchical tissue-based vascular regeneration

Clinical use of small-diameter vascular grafts remains a challenging issue in neovessel regeneration in view of thrombosis and intimal hyperplasia. Developing a vascular graft with structure and function similar to those of the native vessels necessitates a major direction of vascular tissue regeneration. Thus, this study sought to design and fabricate a range of tri-phasic scaffolds (0, 2, and 5 wt% gastrodin-polyurethane (PU)) with spatiotemporally defined structure and gastrodin-release for regulating the highly coordinated processes in growth of the intima and media. While the small pores of inner layer guided infiltration of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), the bigger pores of medial layer could offer smooth muscle cell (SMC)-friendly habitat, and external fibers conferred adequate mechanical properties. Correspondingly, spatial distribution and differential regulation of key proteins in HUVECs and SMCs were mediated by hierarchical release of gastrodin, of which rapid release in inner layer elicited enhanced HUVEC proliferation and migration against those of the SMC via activated endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) signal. Of note, superior anti-coagulation was reflected in 2 wt% gastrodin-PU ex vivo extracorporeal blood circulation experiment. After in vivo implantation for 12 weeks, there was no formation of obvious thrombosis and intimal hyperplasia in 2 wt% gastrodin-PU. The scaffold maintained high patency and improved vascular remodeling, including the formation of thin endothelialization in lumen and dense extracellular matrix deposition in medial layer. Taken together, the results demonstrate the positive function of hierarchical releasing system that responded to tri-phasic structure, which not only suppressed intimal thickening but also tightly controlled tissue regeneration.

TXNIP knockdown protects rats against bupivacaine-induced spinal neurotoxicity via the inhibition of oxidative stress and apoptosis

Bupivacaine (BUP) is an anesthetic commonly used in clinical practice that when used for spinal anesthesia, might exert neurotoxic effects. Thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) is a member of the α-arrestin protein superfamily that binds covalently to thioredoxin (TRX) to inhibit its function, leading to increased oxidative stress and activation of apoptosis. The role of TXNIP in BUP-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis remains to be elucidated. In this context, the present study aimed to explore the effects of TXNIP knockdown on BUP-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in the spinal cord of rats and in PC12 cells through the transfection of adeno-associated virus-TXNIP short hairpin RNA (AAV-TXNIP shRNA) and siRNA-TXNIP, respectively. In vivo, a rat model of spinal neurotoxicity was established by intrathecally injecting rats with BUP. The BUP + TXNIP shRNA and the BUP + Control shRNA groups of rats were injected with an AAV carrying the TXNIP shRNA and the Control shRNA, respectively, into the subarachnoid space four weeks prior to BUP treatment. The Basso, Beattie & Bresnahan (BBB) locomotor rating score, % MPE of TFL, H&E staining, and Nissl staining analyses were conducted. In vitro, 0.8 mM BUP was determined by CCK-8 assay to establish a cytotoxicity model in PC12 cells. Transfection with siRNA-TXNIP was carried out to suppress TXNIP expression prior to exposing PC12 cells to BUP. The results revealed that BUP effectively induced neurological behavioral dysfunction and neuronal damage and death in the spinal cord of the rats. Similarly, BUP triggered cytotoxicity and apoptosis in PC12 cells. In addition, treated with BUP both in vitro and in vivo exhibited upregulated TXNIP expression and increased oxidative stress and apoptosis. Interestingly, TXNIP knockdown in the spinal cord of rats through transfection of AAV-TXNIP shRNA exerted a protective effect against BUP-induced spinal neurotoxicity by ameliorating behavioral and histological outcomes and promoting the survival of spinal cord neurons. Similarly, transfection with siRNA-TXNIP mitigated BUP-induced cytotoxicity in PC12 cells. In addition, TXNIP knockdown mitigated the upregulation of ROS, MDA, Bax, and cleaved caspase-3 and restored the downregulation of GSH, SOD, CAT, GPX4, and Bcl2 induced upon BUP exposure. These findings suggested that TXNIP knockdown protected against BUP-induced spinal neurotoxicity by suppressing oxidative stress and apoptosis. In summary, TXNIP could be a central signaling hub that positively regulates oxidative stress and apoptosis during neuronal damage, which renders TXNIP a promising target for treatment strategies against BUP-induced spinal neurotoxicity.

Omarigliptin/rosinidin combination ameliorates cyclophosphamide-induced lung toxicity in rats: The interaction between glucagon-like peptide-1, TXNIP/NLRP3 inflammasome signaling, and PI3K/Akt/FoxO1 axis

Cyclophosphamide is an anti-neoplastic drug that has shown competence in the management of a broad range of malignant tumors. In addition, it represents a keystone agent for management of immunological conditions. Despite these unique properties, induction of lung toxicity may limit its clinical use. Omarigliptin is one of the dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors that has proven efficacy in management of diabetes mellitus. Rosinidin is an anthocyanidin flavonoid that exhibited promising results in management of diseases characterized by oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. The present work investigated the possible effects of omarigliptin with or without rosinidin on cyclophosphamide-induced lung toxicity with an exploration of the molecular mechanisms that contribute to these effects. In a rodent model of cyclophosphamide elicited lung toxicity, the potential efficacy of omarigliptin with or without rosinidin was investigated at both the biochemical and the histopathological levels. Both omarigliptin and rosinidin exhibited a synergistic ability to augment the tissue antioxidant defenses, mitigate the inflammatory pathways, restore glucagon-like peptide-1 levels, modulate high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1)/receptors of advanced glycation end products (RAGE)/nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) axis, downregulate the fibrogenic mediators, and create a balance between the pathways involved in apoptosis and the autophagy signals in the pulmonary tissues. In conclusion, omarigliptin/rosinidin combination may be introduced as a novel therapeutic modality that attenuates the different forms of lung toxicities induced by cyclophosphamide.

The involvement of Sting in exacerbating acute lung injury in sepsis via the PARP-1/NLRP3 signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Interferon gene stimulator (Sting) is an indispensable adaptor protein that plays a crucial role in acute lung injury (ALI) induced by sepsis, and the PARP-1/NLRP3 signaling pathway may be an integral component of the inflammatory response mediated by Sting. However, the regulatory role of Sting in the PARP-1/NLRP3 pathway in ALI remains insufficiently elucidated.

METHODS

Using lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to induce ALI in C57BL/6 mice and HUVEC cells, an in vivo and in vitro model was established. In vivo, Sting agonists and inhibitors were administered, while in vitro, Sting was knocked down using siRNA. ELISA was employed to quantify the levels of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. TUNEL staining was conducted to assess cellular apoptosis, while co-immunoprecipitation was utilized to investigate the interaction between Sting and NLRP3. Expression levels of Sting, NLRP3, PARP-1, among others, were assessed via Western blotting and RT-qPCR. Lung HE staining and lung wet/dry ratio were evaluated in the in vivo mouse model. To validate the role of the PARP-1/NLRP3 signaling pathway, PARP-1 inhibitors were employed both in vivo and in vitro.

RESULTS

In vitro experiments revealed that the Sting agonist group exacerbated LPS-induced pulmonary pathological damage, pulmonary edema, inflammatory response (increased levels of IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β), and cellular injury, whereas the Sting inhibitor group significantly ameliorated the aforementioned injuries, with further improvement observed in the combination therapy of Sting inhibitor and PARP-1 inhibitor. Western blotting and RT-qPCR results demonstrated significant suppression of ICAM-1, VCAM-1, NLRP3, and PARP-1 expression in the Sting inhibitor group, with this reduction further enhanced in the Sting inhibitor + PARP-1 inhibitor treatment group, exhibiting opposite outcomes to the agonist. Furthermore, in vitro experiments using HUVEC cell lines validated these findings.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study provides new insights into the roles of Sting and the PARP-1/NLRP3 signaling pathway in inflammatory responses, offering novel targets for the development of therapeutic interventions against inflammatory reactions.

The investigation on sialic acid-modified pectin nanoparticles loaded with oxymatrine for orally targeting and inhibiting the of ulcerative colitis

The aim of the study was to develop an oral targeting drug delivery system (OTDDS) of oxymatrine (OMT) to effectively treat ulcerative colitis (UC). The OTDDS of OMT (OMT/SA-NPs) was constructed with OMT, pectin, Ca2+, chitosan (CS) and sialic acid (SA). The obtained particles were characterized in terms of particle size, zeta potential, morphology, drug loading, encapsulation efficiency, drug release and stability. The average size of OMT/SA-NPs was 255.0 nm with a zeta potential of -12.4 mV. The loading content and encapsulation efficiency of OMT/SA-NPs were 14.65% and 84.83%, respectively. The particle size of OMT/SA-NPs changed slightly in the gastrointestinal tract. The nanoparticles can delivery most of the drug to the colon region. In vitro cell experiments showed that the SA-NPs had excellent biocompatibility and anti-inflammation, and the uptake of SA-NPs by RAW 264.7 cells was time and concentration-dependent. The conjugated SA can help the internalization of NPs into target cells. In vivo experiments showed that OMT/SA-NPs had a superior anti-inflammation effect and the effect of reducing UC, which was attributed to the delivery most of OMT to the colonic lumen, the specific targeting and retention in colitis site and the combined anti-inflammation of OMT and NPs.

New insights into the anti-apoptotic mechanism of natural polyphenols in complex with Bax protein

Excessive apoptosis can kill normal cells and lead to liver damage, heart failure and neurodegenerative diseases. Polyphenols are secondary metabolites of plants that can interact with proteins to inhibit toxins and disease-related apoptosis. Bax is the major pro-apoptotic protein that disrupts the outer mitochondrial membrane to induce apoptosis, but limited studies have focused on the interaction between polyphenols and Bax and the associated anti-apoptotic mechanisms, especially at the atomic level. In this article, we collected 69 common polyphenols for active ingredient screening targeting Bax. Polyphenols with better and worse molecular docking scores were selected, and their anti-apoptosis effects were compared using the H2O2-induced HepG2 cell model. The interactions between the selected polyphenols and Bax protein were analyzed using molecular dynamics simulation to explore the molecular mechanism underlying the anti-apoptosis effect. Secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG) and Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) with the best affinity for Bax (-6.76 and -6.52 kcal/mol) reduced the expression of cytochrome c and caspase 3, decreasing the apoptosis rate from 52 to 11% and 12%. Molecular dynamics simulation results showed that Bim unfolded the α1-α2 loop of Bax, and disrupted the non-bond interactions between the loop (Pro-43, Glu-44 and Leu-45) and surface (Ile-133, Arg-134 and Met-137) residues, with binding free energy changed from -15.0 to 0 kJ/mol. The hydrogen bonds and van der Waals interactions formed between polyphenols and Bax prevented the unfolding of the loop. Taken together, our results proved that polyphenols can inhibit apoptosis by maintaining the unactivated conformation of Bax to reduce outer mitochondrial membrane damage.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Synergistic dual cell therapy for atherosclerosis regression: ROS-responsive Bio-liposomes co-loaded with Geniposide and Emodin

The development of nanomaterials for delivering natural compounds has emerged as a promising approach for atherosclerosis therapy. However, premature drug release remains a challenge. Here, we present a ROS-responsive biomimetic nanocomplex co-loaded with Geniposide (GP) and Emodin (EM) in nanoliposome particles (LP NPs) for targeted atherosclerosis therapy. The nanocomplex, hybridized with the macrophage membrane (Møm), effectively evades immune system clearance and targets atherosclerotic plaques. A modified thioketal (TK) system responds to ROS-rich plaque regions, triggering controlled drug release. In vitro, the nanocomplex inhibits endothelial cell apoptosis and macrophage lipid accumulation, restores endothelial cell function, and promotes cholesterol effluxion. In vivo, it targets ROS-rich atherosclerotic plaques, reducing plaque area ROS levels and restoring endothelial cell function, consequently promoting cholesterol outflow. Our study demonstrates that ROS-responsive biomimetic nanocomplexes co-delivering GP and EM exert a synergistic effect against endothelial cell apoptosis and lipid deposition in macrophages, offering a promising dual-cell therapy modality for atherosclerosis regression.

Silencing p75NTR regulates osteogenic differentiation and angiogenesis of BMSCs to enhance bone healing in fractured rats

BACKGROUND

Fractures heal through a process that involves angiogenesis and osteogenesis but may also lead to non-union or delayed healing. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) have been reported to play a pivotal role in bone formation and vascular regeneration and the p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) as being an important regulator of osteogenesis. Herein, we aim to determine the potential mediation of BMSCs by p75NTR in bone healing.

METHODS

Rat BMSCs were identified by flow cytometry (FCM) to detect cell cycle and surface markers. Then transfection of si/oe-p75NTR was performed in BMSCs, followed by Alizarin red staining to detect osteogenic differentiation of cells, immunofluorescence double staining was performed to detect the expression of p75NTR and sortilin, co-immunoprecipitation (CO-IP) was conducted to analyze the interaction between p75NTR and sortilin, and EdU staining and cell scratch assay to assess the proliferation and migration of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). The expression of HIF-1α, VEGF, and apoptosis-related proteins were also detected. In addition, a rat fracture healing model was constructed, and BMSCs-si-p75NTR were injected, following which the fracture condition was observed using micro-CT imaging, and the expression of platelet/endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 (CD31) was assessed.

RESULTS

The results showed that BMSCs were successfully isolated, p75NTR inhibited apoptosis and the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs, while si-p75NTR led to a decrease in sortilin expression in BMSCs, increased proliferation and migration in HUVECs, and upregulation of HIF-1α and VEGF expression. In addition, an interaction was observed between p75NTR and sortilin. The knockdown of p75NTR was found to reduce the severity of fracture in rats and increase the expression of CD31 and osteogenesis-related proteins.

CONCLUSION

Silencing p75NTR effectively modulates BMSCs to promote osteogenic differentiation and angiogenesis, offering a novel perspective for improving fracture healing.

Reduction of renal interstitial fibrosis by targeting Tie2 in vascular endothelial cells

BACKGROUND

Tie2, a functional angiopoietin receptor, is expressed in vascular endothelial cells and plays an important role in angiogenesis and vascular stability. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of an agonistic Tie2 signal on renal interstitial fibrosis (RIF) and elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

METHODS

We established an in vivo mouse model of folic acid-induced nephropathy (FAN) and an in vitro model of lipopolysaccharide-stimulated endothelial cell injury, then an agonistic Tie2 monoclonal antibody (Tie2 mAb) was used to intervent these processes. The degree of tubulointerstitial lesions and related molecular mechanisms were determined by histological assessment, immunohistochemistry, western blotting, and qPCR.

RESULTS

Tie2 mAb attenuated RIF and reduced the level of fibroblast-specific protein 1 (FSP1). Further, it suppressed vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) and increased CD31 density in FAN. In the in vitro model, Tie2 mAb was found to decrease the expression of VCAM-1, Bax, and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA).

CONCLUSIONS

The present findings indicate that the agonistic Tie2 mAb exerted vascular protective effects and ameliorated RIF via inhibition of vascular inflammation, apoptosis, and fibrosis. Therefore, Tie2 may be a potential target for the treatment of this disease.

IMPACT

This is the first report to confirm that an agonistic Tie2 monoclonal antibody can reduce renal interstitial fibrosis in folic acid-induced nephropathy in mice. This mechanism possibly involves vascular protective effects brought about by inhibition of vascular inflammation, apoptosis and fibrosis. Our data show that Tie2 signal may be a novel, endothelium-specific target for the treatment of tubulointerstitial fibrosis.

Endothelial downregulation of nuclear m6A reader YTHDC1 promotes pulmonary vascular remodeling in sugen hypoxia model of pulmonary hypertension

Background

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is characterized with vascular remodeling, which is intiated by vascular endothelial dysfunction. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification mediates gene expression in many ways including mediating RNA degradation, splicing, nuclear export et al. m6A modification have been found to be associated with the development of PH. However, the role of m6A regulators in pulmonary artery endothelial cells (PAECs) dysfunction of PH is still under research.

Methods

The expression levels of m6A regulators in PAECs were analyzed with the single-cell sequencing Data(scRNA). Next, the target differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of m6A regulators in PAECs were functionally annotated. The analysis of cellular interactions included the examination of receptor-ligand pairs regulated by m6A regulators. Pseudo-time trajectory analyses and a ceRNA network involving lncRNAs, miRNAs, and mRNAs were conducted in PAECs. Furthermore, microarray data (GSE180169) for Sugen Hypoxia PH (SuHx PH) mouse models was screened for DEGs and m6A regulators in PAECs. Moreover, the expression of YTHDC1 in the lung samples of SuHx PH models was determined using immunofluorescence. In vitro, the mRNA expression of YTHDC1 in HPAECs under hypoxia conditions was detected. The effect of YTHDC1 recombinant protein on HPAEC proliferation was detected by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8).

Results

Dysregulation of m6A regulators was observed in mouse PAECs. The m6A reader of YTHDC1 was decreased in PAECs in scRNA data and RNAseq data of isolated PAECs of SuHx PH models. Downregulation of YTHDC1 was caused by hypoxia in PAECs in vitro and similar results was observed in PAECs of SuHx PH mouse models. Next, YTHDC1 recombinant protein was found to inhibit HPAECs proliferation. The DEGs targeted by YTHDC1 were enriched in angiogenesis, endothelial cell migration, fluid shear stress, and stem cell maintenance. Analysis indicates that interactions among endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, fibroblasts, and immune cells, mediated by specific YTHDC1 target genes (e.g., PTPRC-MRC1, ITBG2-ICAM1, COL4A1-CD44), contribute to PH development. Also, the YTHDC1 expression were consistent with Thioredoxin interacting protein (TXNIP). What's more, the predicted transcription factors showed that NFKB1, Foxd3 may be involved in the regulation of YTHDC1. Lastly, our data suggest that YTHDC1 may be involved in regulating PAECs dysfunction through lncRNA/miRNA/mRNA network.

Conclusion

For the first time, we analyzed changes in the expression and biological functions of m6A regulators in SuHx PH mouse models. We causatively linked YTHDC1 to PAECs dysfunction, providing novel insight into and opportunities to diagnose and treat PH.

Molecular Mechanism of SOX18 in Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Injury of Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells

Endothelial dysfunction is associated with the progression of sepsis. This study sought to probe the molecular route of sex-determining region on the Y chromosome-box transcription factor 18 (SOX18) in sepsis-associated endothelial injury. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to establish the sepsis cell model. Cell viability, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, oxidative stress (reactive oxygen species/malondialdehyde/superoxide dismutase), and inflammation (interleukin-1β/tumor necrosis factor-α/interleukin-6) were evaluated by cell counting kit-8 assay and relevant assay kits. The expression levels of SOX18, microRNA (miR)-204-5p, and cadherin-2 (CDH2) in cells were determined by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blot assay. The interaction of SOX18, miR-204-5p, and CDH2 was analyzed by chromatin immunoprecipitation and dual-luciferase assay. LPS induced HUVECs injury and downregulation of SOX18. SOX18 overexpression increased cell viability, while decreased LDH activity, oxidative stress, and inflammation. SOX18 bound to the miR-204-5p promoter to promote miR-204-5p expression, and further repressed CDH2 expression. miR-204-5p knockdown and CDH2 overexpression abrogated the protective role of SOX18 in HUVECs injury. Overall, SOX18 alleviated LPS-induced injury of HUVECs by promoting miR-204-5p and repressing CDH2, suggesting it as a potential target for sepsis treatment.

Lycopene alleviates oxidative stress-induced cell injury in human vascular endothelial cells by encouraging the SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 pathway

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Epidemiological research have displayed that dietary intake rich in lycopene, an antioxidant, is negatively correlated with the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). This study aimed to investigate whether the intervention with different concentrations of lycopene could attenuate H₂O₂-induced oxidative stress injury in human vascular endothelial cells (VECs).

METHODS

The human VECs HMEC-1 and ECV-304 were incubated with a final concentration of 300 µmol/L H₂O₂, followed by they were incubated with lycopene at doses of 0.5, 1, or 2 µm. Subsequently, cell proliferation, cytotoxicity, cell adhesion, reactive oxygen species (ROS) contents, adhesion molecule expression, oxidative stress levels, pro-inflammatory factor production, the apoptosis protein levels, and the silent information regulator-1 (SIRT1)/nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) pathway protein levels were tested by CCK-8 kit, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) kit, immunofluorescence labeling, cell surface enzyme immunoassays (EIA), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), as well as Western blot assays, respectively.

RESULTS

Under H₂O₂ stimulation, HMEC-1 and ECV-304 cell proliferation and the SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 pathway protein expression were significantly reduced, whereas cytotoxicity, apoptosis, cell adhesion molecule expression, pro-inflammatory and oxidative stress factors production were apparently encouraged, which were partially countered by lycopene intervention in a dose-dependent manner.

CONCLUSION

Lycopene alleviates H₂O₂-induced oxidative damage in human VECs by reducing intracellular ROS levels, inflammatory factor production, cell adhesiveness, and apoptosis rate under oxidative stress conditions through activation of the SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 pathway.

Sirtuin1 Mediates the Protective Effects of Echinacoside against Sepsis-Induced Acute Lung Injury via Regulating the NOX4-Nrf2 Axis

Currently, the treatment for sepsis-induced acute lung injury mainly involves mechanical ventilation with limited use of drugs, highlighting the urgent need for new therapeutic options. As a pivotal aspect of acute lung injury, the pathologic activation and apoptosis of endothelial cells related to oxidative stress play a crucial role in disease progression, with NOX4 and Nrf2 being important targets in regulating ROS production and clearance. Echinacoside, extracted from the traditional Chinese herbal plant Cistanche deserticola, possesses diverse biological activities. However, its role in sepsis-induced acute lung injury remains unexplored. Moreover, although some studies have demonstrated the regulation of NOX4 expression by SIRT1, the specific mechanisms are yet to be elucidated. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of echinacoside on sepsis-induced acute lung injury and oxidative stress in mice and to explore the intricate regulatory mechanism of SIRT1 on NOX4. We found that echinacoside inhibited sepsis-induced acute lung injury and oxidative stress while preserving endothelial function. In vitro experiments demonstrated that echinacoside activated SIRT1 and promoted its expression. The activated SIRT1 was competitively bound to p22 phox, inhibiting the activation of NOX4 and facilitating the ubiquitination and degradation of NOX4. Additionally, SIRT1 deacetylated Nrf2, promoting the downstream expression of antioxidant enzymes, thus enhancing the NOX4-Nrf2 axis and mitigating oxidative stress-induced endothelial cell pathologic activation and mitochondrial pathway apoptosis. The SIRT1-mediated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of echinacoside were validated in vivo. Consequently, the SIRT1-regulated NOX4-Nrf2 axis may represent a crucial target for echinacoside in the treatment of sepsis-induced acute lung injury.

Chimpanzee adenovirus-mediated multiple gene therapy for age-related macular degeneration

Neovascular age-related macular degeneration AMD (nAMD) is characterized by choroidal neovascularization (CNV) and could lead to irreversible blindness. However, anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy has limited efficacy. Therefore, we generated a chimpanzee adenoviral vector (AdC68-PFC) containing three genes, pigment endothelial-derived factor (PEDF), soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1), and soluble forms of CD59 (sCD59), to treat nAMD. The results showed that AdC68-PFC mediated a strong onset of PEDF, sFlt-1, and sCD59 expression both in vivo and in vitro. AdC68-PFC showed preventive and therapeutic effects following intravitreal (IVT) injection in the laser-induced CNV model and very low-density lipoprotein receptor-deficient (Vldlr-/-) mouse model. In vitro assessment indicated that AdC68-PFC had a strong inhibitory effect on endothelial cells. Importantly, the safety test showed no evidence of in vivo toxicity of adenovirus in murine eyes. Our findings suggest that AdC68-PFC may be a long-acting and safe gene therapy vector for future nAMD treatments.

The stress-responsive protein REDD1 and its pathophysiological functions

Regulated in development and DNA damage-response 1 (REDD1) is a stress-induced protein that controls various cellular functions, including metabolism, oxidative stress, autophagy, and cell fate, and contributes to the pathogenesis of metabolic and inflammatory disorders, neurodegeneration, and cancer. REDD1 usually exerts deleterious effects, including tumorigenesis, metabolic inflammation, neurodegeneration, and muscle dystrophy; however, it also exhibits protective functions by regulating multiple intrinsic cell activities through either an mTORC1-dependent or -independent mechanism. REDD1 typically regulates mTORC1 signaling, NF-κB activation, and cellular pro-oxidant or antioxidant activity by interacting with 14-3-3 proteins, IκBα, and thioredoxin-interacting protein or 75 kDa glucose-regulated protein, respectively. The diverse functions of REDD1 depend on cell type, cellular context, interaction partners, and cellular localization (e.g., mitochondria, endomembrane, or cytosol). Therefore, comprehensively understanding the molecular mechanisms and biological roles of REDD1 under pathophysiological conditions is of utmost importance. In this review, based on the published literature, we highlight and discuss the molecular mechanisms underlying the REDD1 expression and its actions, biological functions, and pathophysiological roles.

Decreased miR-17-92 cluster correlates with senescence features, disrupted oxidative homeostasis, and impaired therapeutic efficacy of mesenchymal stem cells

Aging and replicative cellular senescence are associated with the reduced therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) on a variety of diseases. This study aimed to determine the mechanism in MSC senescence and further explore a modification strategy to reverse senescence-associated cell dysfunction to improve the therapeutic efficacy of MSCs on acute liver failure (ALF). We found that the adipose tissue-derived MSCs from old mice (oAMSCs) exhibited senescence phenotypes and showed reduced therapeutic efficacy in lipopolysaccharide and D-galactosamine-induced ALF, as shown by the increased hepatic necrosis, liver histology activity index scores, serum liver function indicator levels, and inflammatory cytokine levels. The expression of miR-17-92 cluster members, especially miR-17 and miR-20a, was obviously decreased in oAMSCs and replicatively senescent AMSCs, and was consistent with the decreased oncogene c-Myc level during AMSC senescence and may mediate c-Myc stemness addiction. Further experiments revealed that c-Myc-regulated miR-17-92 expression contributed to increased p21 expression and redox system dysregulation during AMSC senescence. Furthermore, modification of AMSCs with the two key miRNAs in the miR-17-92 cluster mentioned above reversed the senescence features of oAMSCs and restored the therapeutic effect of senescent AMSCs on ALF. In conclusion, the cellular miR-17-92 cluster level is correlated with AMSC senescence and can be used both as an index for evaluating and as a modification target for improving the therapeutic potential of AMSCs.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We reported for the first time that c-Myc-regulated miR-17-92 contributed to increased p21 expression and redox system dysregulation during AMSC senescence and was associated with the reduced therapeutic effects of senescent AMSCs on ALF. Moreover, modifying the expression of the miR-17-92 cluster members, especially miR-17 and/or miR-20a, could reverse AMSC senescence. Thus, miR-17-92 cluster can be used both as an index for evaluating and as a modification strategy for improving the therapeutic potential of AMSCs.

Small extracellular vesicles-transported lncRNA TDRKH-AS1 derived from AOPPs-treated trophoblasts initiates endothelial cells pyroptosis through PDIA4/DDIT4 axis in preeclampsia

BACKGROUND

Substantial studies have demonstrated that oxidative stress placenta and endothelial injury are considered to inextricably critical events in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia (PE). Systemic inflammatory response and endothelial dysfunction are induced by the circulating factors released from oxidative stress placentae. As a novel biomarker of oxidative stress, advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs) levels are strongly correlated with PE characteristics. Nevertheless, the molecular mechanism underlying the effect of factors is still largely unknown.

METHODS

With the exponential knowledge on the importance of placenta-derived extracellular vesicles (pEVs), we carried out lncRNA transcriptome profiling on small EVs (sEVs) secreted from AOPPs-treated trophoblast cells and identified upregulated lncRNA TDRKH-AS1 as a potentially causative factor for PE. We isolated and characterized sEVs from plasma and trophoblast cells by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) and western blotting. The expression and correlation of lncRNA TDRKH-AS1 were evaluated using qRT-PCR in plasmatic sEVs and placentae from patients. Pregnant mice injected with TDRKH-AS1-riched trophoblast sEVs was performed to detect the TDRKH-AS1 function in vivo. To investigate the potential effect of sEVs-derived TDRKH-AS1 on endothelial function in vitro, transcriptome sequencing, scanning electron Microscopy (SEM), immunofluorescence, ELISA and western blotting were conducted in HUVECs. RNA pulldown, mass spectrometry, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP), chromatin isolation by RNA purification (ChIRP) and coimmunoprecipitation (Co-IP) were used to reveal the latent mechanism of TDRKH-AS1 on endothelial injury.

RESULTS

The expression level of TDRKH-AS1 was significantly increased in plasmatic sEVs and placentae from patients, and elevated TDRKH-AS1 in plasmatic sEVs was positively correlated with clinical severity of the patients. Moreover, pregnant mice injected with TDRKH-AS1-riched trophoblast sEVs exhibited a hallmark feature of PE with increased blood pressure and systemic inflammatory responses. Pyroptosis, an inflammatory form of programmed cell death, is involved in the development of PE. Indeed, our in vitro study indicated that sEVs-derived TDRKH-AS1 secreted from AOPPs-induced trophoblast elevated DDIT4 expression levels to trigger inflammatory response of pyroptosis in endothelial cells through interacting with PDIA4.

CONCLUSIONS

Herein, results in the present study supported that TDRKH-AS1 in sEVs isolated from oxidative stress trophoblast may be implicated in the pathogenesis of PE via inducing pyroptosis and aggravating endothelial dysfunction.

Proanthocyanidins: A novel approach to Henoch‑Schonlein purpura through balancing immunity and arresting oxidative stress via TLR4/MyD88/NF‑κB signaling pathway (Review)

Henoch-Schonlein purpura (HSP), a recurrent and immunoglobulin (Ig)A-mediated vasculitis, presents not only as skin lesions but also as systemic involvement that can be life-threatening. Although the etiology of HSP remains unknown, immune imbalance and oxidative stress (OS) are primary contributors to its pathogenesis, alongside the abnormal activation of Toll-like receptor (TLR)/myeloid differentiation primary response gene 88 (MyD88)/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway. TLRs, especially TLR4, stimulate downstream signaling molecules such as NF-κB and proinflammatory cytokines, which are released when TLRs combine with the key adapter molecule MyD88. This leads to the activation of T helper (Th) cell 2/Th17 and overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The function of regulatory T (Treg) cells is suppressed in the process. Th17/Treg imbalance then produces various inflammatory cytokines to promote proliferation and differentiation of B cells and the secretion of antibodies. IgA is secreted, and it binds to vascular endothelial surface receptors where the complex induces injury of the vascular endothelial cells. Additionally, excessive ROS creates OS that leads to an inflammatory response and vascular cell apoptosis or necrosis, thereby contributing to vascular endothelial damage and HSP occurrence. Proanthocyanidins are active compounds naturally enriched in fruits, vegetables and plants. Proanthocyanidins have diverse properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, immunoregulatory, anticarcinogenic and vascular protective effects. Proanthocyanidins are used in the management of various diseases. Proanthocyanidins regulate T cells, equilibrate immunity and arrest OS by inhibiting the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway. Considering the pathogenesis of HSP and the properties of proanthocyanidins, the present study hypothesized that these compounds may potentially lead to HSP recovery through modulating the immune equilibrium and preventing OS by inhibiting the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway. To the best of our knowledge, however, little is known about the positive effects of proanthocyanidins against HSP. The present review summarizes the potential of proanthocyanidins to treat HSP.

Resveratrol inhibits LPS-induced apoptosis in bovine mammary epithelial cells: the role of PGC1α-SIRT3 axis

Resveratrol (Res) is a bioactive dietary component and alleviates apoptosis in multiple cell types. However, its effect and mechanism on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced bovine mammary epithelial cells (BMEC) apoptosis, which commonly happens in dairy cows with mastitis, is unknown. We hypothesized that Res would inhibit LPS-induced apoptosis in BMEC through SIRT3, a NAD + -dependent deacetylase activated by Res. To test the dose-response effect on apoptosis, 0-50 μM Res were incubated with BMEC for 12 h, followed by 250 μg/mL LPS treatment for 12 h. To investigate the role of SIRT3 in Res-mediated alleviation of apoptosis, BMEC were pretreated with 50 μM Res for 12 h, then incubated with si-SIRT3 for 12 h and were finally treated with 250 μg/mL LPS for 12 h. Res dose-dependently promoted the cell viability and protein levels of Bcl-2 (Linear P < 0.001) but decreased protein levels of Bax, Caspase-3 and Bax/Bcl-2 (Linear P < 0.001). TUNEL assays indicated that cellular fluorescence intensity declined with the rising doses of Res. Res also dose-dependently upregulated SIRT3 expression, but LPS had the opposite effect. SIRT3 silencing abolished these results with Res incubation. Mechanically, Res enhanced the nuclear translocation of PGC1α, the transcriptional cofactor for SIRT3. Further molecular docking analysis revealed that Res could directly bind to PGC1α by forming a hydrogen bond with Tyr-722. Overall, our data suggested that Res relieved LPS-induced BMEC apoptosis through the PGC1α-SIRT3 axis, providing a basis for further in vivo investigations of applying Res to relieve mastitis in dairy cows.

Cyr61 Mediates Angiotensin II-Induced Podocyte Apoptosis via the Upregulation of TXNIP

Purpose. It is well documented that angiotensin II (Ang II) elevation promotes apoptosis of podocytes in vivo and vitro, but the potential mechanism is still oscular. The current study is aimed at probing into the assignment of cysteine-rich protein 61 (Cyr61) in Ang II-induced podocyte apoptosis. Methods. Podocytes were treated with Ang II (10-6 mol/L) for 48 hours to establish an injury model in vitro. Western blot assays were detected the expression of Cyr61, Cyt-c, Bax, and Bcl-2. Gene microarray was used to analyze the expression of mRNAs after treatment with Ang II. CRISPR/Cas9 technology was used to knock down Cyr61 and overexpress TXNIP gene, respectively. Results. The expression of Cyr61, TXNIP, Cyt-c, and Bax in podocytes treated with Ang II were upregulated, but the expression and apoptotic rates of Bcl-2 in podocytes were inhibited. The level of the above factors was not significantly different after the knockdown of Cyr61 with Ang II in podocytes. In Ang II group, when knocked down Cyr61, the expressed level of TXNIP, Cyt-c, and Bax was diminished after Ang II treatment; interestingly Bcl-2 expression and podocyte apoptotic rate were reduced. Under the stimulation of Ang II, the expression of Cyt-c and Bax were growing, whereas Bcl-2 was reduced, and the apoptotic rates were higher in the TXNIP overexpression group. Cyt-c and Bax were put on, whereas that of Bcl-2 was to be cut down when the Cyr61 was knockdown, and the apoptotic rates were gained in the TXNIP overexpression+Cyr61 knockdown group. Conclusions. The results of the study extrapolate that Cyr61 plays a dominant role in Ang II-induced podocyte apoptosis. Additionally, Cyr61 may mediate the Ang II-induced podocyte apoptosis by promoting the expression of TNXIP.

Comparison of the efficacy of the mouse hepatic and renal antioxidant systems against inflammation-induced oxidative stress

This study was conducted to compare the efficacy of the mouse hepatic and renal antioxidant systems against inflammation-induced oxidative stress. Increased Il-1 and Il-6 expressions, markers of inflammation, were represented by inflammation models in mouse liver and kidney tissues injected intraperitoneally with LPS. After establishing the model, the GSH level and the GSH/GSSG ratio, which are oxidative stress markers, were investigated in both tissues treated with LPS and the control group. The expression of Trx1, TrxR, and Txnip genes increased in the liver tissues of LPS-treated mice. In the kidney tissue, while Trx1 expression decreased, no change was observed in TrxR1 expression, and Txnip expression increased. In the kidneys, TRXR1 and GR activities decreased, whereas GPx activity increased. In both tissues, the TRXR1 protein expression decreased significantly, while TXNIP expression increased. In conclusion, different behaviors of antioxidant system members were observed during acute inflammation in both tissues. Additionally, it can be said that the kidney tissue is more sensitive and takes earlier measures than the liver tissue against cellular damage caused by inflammation and inflammation-induced oxidative stress.

PERK/ATF4-dependent expression of the stress response protein REDD1 promotes proinflammatory cytokine expression in the heart of obese mice

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and inflammation are hallmarks of myocardial impairment. Here, we investigated the role of the stress response protein regulated in development and DNA damage 1 (REDD1) as a molecular link between ER stress and inflammation in cardiomyocytes. In mice fed a high-fat high-sucrose (HFHS, 42% kcal fat, 34% sucrose by weight) diet for 12 wk, REDD1 expression in the heart was increased in coordination with markers of ER stress and inflammation. In human AC16 cardiomyocytes exposed to either hyperglycemic conditions or the saturated fatty acid palmitate, REDD1 expression was increased coincident with ER stress and upregulated expression of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and TNFα. In cardiomyocytes exposed to hyperglycemic/hyperlipidemic conditions, pharmacological inhibition of the ER kinase protein kinase RNA-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK) or knockdown of the transcription factor ATF4 prevented the increase in REDD1 expression. REDD1 deletion reduced proinflammatory cytokine expression in both cardiomyocytes exposed to hyperglycemic/hyperlipidemic conditions and in the hearts of obese mice. Overall, the findings support a model wherein HFHS diet contributes to the development of inflammation in cardiomyocytes by promoting REDD1 expression via activation of a PERK/ATF4 signaling axis.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Interplay between endoplasmic reticulum stress and inflammation contributes to cardiovascular disease progression. The studies here identify the stress response protein known as REDD1 as a missing molecular link that connects the development of endoplasmic reticulum stress with increased production of proinflammatory cytokines in the hearts of obese mice.

GATA2 promotes oxidative stress to aggravate renal ischemia-reperfusion injury by up-regulating Redd1

Renal ischemia-reperfusion injury (RIRI) is a common pathophysiological process, and it is also an important cause of acute renal failure. Therefore, finding an effective therapeutic target for RIRI is extremely urgent. In our study, we constructed hypoxia-reoxygenation (HR) model in vitro and a renal ischemia-reperfusion (IR) model in vivo. Elevated levels of serum creatinine (Cr), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and malondialdehyde (MDA) along with the decreased levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH) proved that kidney function was damaged after IR, and pathological changes of renal tissues were observed using HE staining and TUNEL staining. The protein of Redd1 expression level was detected to be upregulated after IR by western blot (WB). However, transfection of short hairpin RNA of Redd1 (sh-Redd1) alleviated the HR injury on LLC-PK1 cells, as evidenced by increased cell viability, proliferation and decreased cell apoptosis; additionally, the accumulation of ROS was inhibited. Sh-Redd1 also alleviated IR injury in the mouse model. Subsequently, GATA2 was proved to be upregulated in IR and HR models and was the transcription factor of Redd1. Knockdown of GATA2 efficiently mitigated the oxidative stress induced damages in vivo and in vitro, while these mitigations were reversed by transfection of Redd1 overexpression plasmid. In conclusion, our study clarified the possible underlying mechanism of protecting RIRI.

EPSTI1 promotes monocyte adhesion to endothelial cells in vitro via upregulating VCAM-1 and ICAM-1 expression

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease of arterial wall, and circulating monocyte adhesion to endothelial cells is a crucial step in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Epithelial-stromal interaction 1 (EPSTI1) is a novel gene, which is dramatically induced by epithelial-stromal interaction in human breast cancer. EPSTI1 expression is not only restricted to the breast but also in other normal tissues. In this study we investigated the role of EPSTI1 in monocyte-endothelial cell adhesion and its expression pattern in atherosclerotic plaques. We showed that EPSTI1 was dramatically upregulated in human and mouse atherosclerotic plaques when compared with normal arteries. In addition, the expression of EPSTI1 in endothelial cells of human and mouse atherosclerotic plaques is significantly higher than that of the normal arteries. Furthermore, we demonstrated that EPSTI1 promoted human monocytic THP-1 cell adhesion to human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) via upregulating VCAM-1 and ICAM-1 expression in HUVECs. Treatment with LPS (100, 500, 1000 ng/mL) induced EPSTI1 expression in HUVECs at both mRNA and protein levels in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Knockdown of EPSTI1 significantly inhibited LPS-induced monocyte-endothelial cell adhesion via downregulation of VCAM-1 and ICAM-1. Moreover, we revealed that LPS induced EPSTI1 expression through p65 nuclear translocation. Thus, we conclude that EPSTI1 promotes THP-1 cell adhesion to endothelial cells by upregulating VCAM-1 and ICAM-1 expression, implying its potential role in the development of atherosclerosis.

Exosomes Derived from AT2R-Overexpressing BMSC Prevent Restenosis After Carotid Artery Injury by Attenuating the Injury-Induced Neointimal Hyperplasia

Restenosis is a severe complication after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty which limits the long-term efficacy of the intervention. In this study, we investigated the efficiency of exosomes derived from AT2R-overexpressing bone mesenchymal stem cells on the prevention of restenosis after carotid artery injury. Our data showed that AT2R-EXO promoted the proliferation and migration of vascular endothelial cells and maintained the ratio of eNOS/iNOS. On the contrary, AT2R-EXO inhibited the proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells. In vivo study proved that AT2R-Exo were more effectively accumulated in the injured carotid artery than EXO and Vehicle-EXO controls. AT2R-EXO treatment could improve blood flow of the injured carotid artery site more effectively. Further analysis revealed that AT2REXO prevents restenosis after carotid artery injury by attenuating the injury-induced neointimal hyperplasia. Our study provides a novel and more efficient exosome for the treatment of restenosis diseases after intervention.

In silico high-throughput screening system for AKT1 activators with therapeutic applications in sepsis acute lung injury

Purpose

AKT1 is an important target in sepsis acute lung injury (SALI). The current study was aim to construct a high-throughput screening (HTS) system based on the ChemDiv database (https://www.chemdiv.com/complete-list/) and use the system to screen for AKT1 activation agents, which may provide clues for the research and development of new drugs to treat SALI.

Methods

Based on the existing X-ray structure of AKT1 and known AKT activators, a large-scale virtual HTS was performed on the ChemDiv database of small molecules by the cascade docking method and demonstrated both accuracy and screening efficiency. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations were used to assess the stability and binding characteristics of the identified small-molecule compounds. The protective effect of the new highly selective compound on SALI were verified both in vitro and in vivo experiments.

Results

The small-molecule compound 7460-0250 was screened out as a specific activator of AKT1. Molecular validation experiments confirmed that compound 7460-0250 specifically promoted the phosphorylation of AKT1 and down-regulated the LPS-induced apoptosis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) by activating the AKT-mTOR pathway. Up-regulated mTOR was detected to directly interact with Bax to reduce apoptosis. In vivo, compound 7460-0250 could improved survival rate and alleviated lung injury of sepsis mice induced by cecum ligation and puncture (CLP), parallel with the activation of the AKT-mTOR pathway.

Conclusion

Small-molecule compound 7460-0250 was successfully screened and confirmed as a highly selective AKT1 activator, which is a critical target in the development of new therapeutics for SALI.

The BCL2/BAX/ROS pathway is involved in the inhibitory effect of astragaloside IV on pyroptosis in human umbilical vein endothelial cells

CONTEXT

Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) is extracted from Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bunge (Fabaceae). However, its effects on endothelial cell injury remain unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the mechanisms underlying the effects of AS-IV on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced endothelial injury in vitro.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were pre-treated with AS-IV (100 µmol/mL), 4-hydroxy-3-methoxyacetophenone (APO, 10 µmol/mL), N-acetylcysteine (NAC, 50 µmol/mL) and Ac-YVAD-cmk (AC, 5 µmol/mL) for 2 h before 1 μg/mL LPS 24 h exposure. Untreated cells cultured without any exposure were used as controls. Cell viability, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and pyroptosis assays were performed. The pyroptosis related proteins were detected by western blot.

RESULTS

The rate in late pyroptosis (Q2-2) of AS-IV (13.65 ± 0.74%), APO (13.69 ± 0.67%) and NAC (15.87 ± 0.46%) groups was lower than the LPS group (21.89 ± 0.66%, p < 0.05), while the rate in early pyroptosis (Q2-4) of AS-IV group (12.00 ± 0.26%) was lower than other groups (p < 0.05). The expression of NOX4, GSDMD, NLRP3, ASC and caspase-1 decreased after AS-IV, NAC or AC intervention (p < 0.05). The ROS production in AS-IV (4664 ± 153.20), APO (4094 ± 78.37), NAC (5103 ± 131.10) and AC (3994 ± 102.50) groups was lower than the LPS (5986 ± 127.30) group, while the mitochondrial BCL2/BAX protein expression ratio increased in AS-IV, APO and NAC groups (p < 0.05).

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

AS-IV suppressed pyroptosis in LPS-activated HUVECs by inducing ROS/NLRP3-mediated inhibition of the inflammatory response, providing a scientific basis for clinical applications of AS-IV.

Stress response protein REDD1 promotes diabetes-induced retinal inflammation by sustaining canonical NF-κB signaling

Inflammation contributes to the progression of retinal pathology caused by diabetes. Here, we investigated a role for the stress response protein regulated in development and DNA damage response 1 (REDD1) in the development of retinal inflammation. Increased REDD1 expression was observed in the retina of mice after 16-weeks of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes, and REDD1 was essential for diabetes-induced pro-inflammatory cytokine expression. In human retinal MIO-M1 Müller cell cultures, REDD1 deletion prevented increased pro-inflammatory cytokine expression in response to hyperglycemic conditions. REDD1 deletion promoted nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) hyperactivation; however, Nrf2 was not required for reduced inflammatory cytokine expression in REDD1-deficient cells. Rather, REDD1 enhanced inflammatory cytokine expression by promoting activation of nuclear transcription factor κB (NF-κB). In WT cells exposed to tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), inflammatory cytokine expression was increased in coordination with activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4)-dependent REDD1 expression and sustained activation of NF-κB. In both Müller cell cultures exposed to TNFα and in the retina of STZ-diabetic mice, REDD1 deletion promoted inhibitor of κB (IκB) expression and reduced NF-κB DNA-binding activity. We found that REDD1 acted upstream of IκB by enhancing both K63-ubiquitination and auto-phosphorylation of IκB kinase complex. In contrast with STZ-diabetic REDD1^+/+ mice, IκB kinase complex autophosphorylation and macrophage infiltration were not observed in the retina of STZ-diabetic REDD1^-/- mice. The findings provide new insight into how diabetes promotes retinal inflammation and support a model wherein REDD1 sustains activation of canonical NF-κB signaling.

CircRNA, lncRNA, and mRNA profiles of umbilical cord blood exosomes from preterm newborns showing bronchopulmonary dysplasia

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) represents a multifactorial chronic pulmonary pathology and a major factor causing premature illness and death. The therapeutic role of exosomes in BPD has been feverishly investigated. Meanwhile, the potential roles of exosomal circRNAs, lncRNAs, and mRNAs in umbilical cord blood (UCB) serum have not been studied. This study aimed to detect the expression profiles of circRNAs, lncRNAs, and mRNAs in UCB-derived exosomes of infants with BPD. Microarray analysis was performed to compare the RNA profiles of UCB-derived exosomes of a preterm newborn with (BPD group) and without (non-BPD, NBPD group) BPD. Then, circRNA/lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA co-expression networks were built to determine their association with BPD. In addition, cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay was used to evaluate the proliferation of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced human bronchial epithelial cells (BEAS-2B cells) and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). The levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-1β in LPS-induced BEAS-2B cells and HUVECs were assessed through Western blot analysis. Then, quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction assay was used to evaluate the expression levels of four differentially expressed circRNAs (hsa_circ_0086913, hsa_circ_0049170, hsa_circ_0087059, and hsa_circ_0065188) and two lncRNAs (small nucleolar RNA host gene 20 (SNHG20) and LINC00582) detected in LPS-induced BEAS-2B cells or HUVECs. A total of 317 circRNAs, 104 lncRNAs, and 135 mRNAs showed significant differential expression in UCB-derived exosomes of preterm infants with BPD compared with those with NBPD. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were conducted to examine differentially expressed exosomal circRNAs, lncRNAs, and mRNAs. The results showed that the GO terms and KEGG pathways mostly involving differentially expressed exosomal RNAs were closely associated with endothelial or epithelial cell development. In vitro, CCK-8 and Western blot assays revealed that LPS remarkably inhibited the viability and promoted inflammatory responses (TNF-α and IL-1β) of BEAS-2B cells or HUVECs. The expression levels of circRNAs hsa_circ_0049170 and hsa_circ_0087059 were upregulated in LPS-induced BEAS-2B cells; the expression level of hsa_circ_0086913 was upregulated and that of hsa_circ_0065188 was downregulated in LPS-induced HUVECs. Moreover, the expression level of lncRNA SNHG20 was upregulated and that of LINC00582 was downregulated in LPS-induced BEAS-2B cells. Further, 455 circRNA/lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA interaction networks were predicted, including hsa_circ_0086913/hsa-miR-103a-3p/transmembrane 4 L six family member 1 (TM4SF1) and lncRNA-SNHG20/hsa-miR-6720-5p/spermine synthase (SMS) networks, which may take part in BPD.

CONCLUSION

This study provided a systematic perspective on UCB-derived exosomal circRNAs and lncRNAs and laid an important foundation for further investigating the potential biological functions of exosomal circRNAs and lncRNAs in BPD.

WHAT IS KNOWN

• BPD represents a multifactorial chronic pulmonary pathology and a major factor causing premature illness and death. • The therapeutic role of exosomes in BPD has been feverishly investigated, and exosomal RNAs were ignored.

WHAT IS NEW

• The profiles of UCB-derived exosomal circRNAs, lncRNAs, and mRNAs were performed. • Several differentially expressed circRNAs and lncRNAs were identified in LPS-induced BEAS-2B cells and HUVECs.

Nutritional Sensor REDD1 in Cancer and Inflammation: Friend or Foe?

Regulated in Development and DNA Damage Response 1 (REDD1)/DNA Damage-Induced Transcript 4 (DDIT4) is an immediate early response gene activated by different stress conditions, including growth factor depletion, hypoxia, DNA damage, and stress hormones, i.e., glucocorticoids. The most known functions of REDD1 are the inhibition of proliferative signaling and the regulation of metabolism via the repression of the central regulator of these processes, the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). The involvement of REDD1 in cell growth, apoptosis, metabolism, and oxidative stress implies its role in various pathological conditions, including cancer and inflammatory diseases. Recently, REDD1 was identified as one of the central genes mechanistically involved in undesirable atrophic effects induced by chronic topical and systemic glucocorticoids widely used for the treatment of blood cancer and inflammatory diseases. In this review, we discuss the role of REDD1 in the regulation of cell signaling and processes in normal and cancer cells, its involvement in the pathogenesis of different diseases, and the approach to safer glucocorticoid receptor (GR)-targeted therapies via a combination of glucocorticoids and REDD1 inhibitors to decrease the adverse atrophogenic effects of these steroids.

Paeoniflorin alleviates liver injury in hypercholesterolemic rats through the ROCK/AMPK pathway

Paeoniflorin (PF) is the main active component in Paeonia lactiflora Pall, and it has multiple effects. However, the precise mechanism of PF in hypercholesterolemia is unclear. In this study, rats were either fed a high-cholesterol diet (HCD) for 4 weeks to establish the hypercholesterolemic model or administered normal saline or PF (20 mg/kg/day). PF significantly reduced liver weight and the liver index. PF reduced hepatic lipid deposition and inflammation, improved serum lipid metabolism, and significantly inhibited serum and hepatic oxidative stress and the inflammatory response. PF treatment caused a marked decrease in the phosphorylated myosin phosphatase target subunit (p-MYPT)-1, nuclear sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1c (SREBP-1c), fatty acid synthase (FAS) levels, and an increase in the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) and phosphorylated-AMP-activated protein kinase (p-AMPK). Thus, PF could alleviate liver injury in hypercholesterolemic rats, and the specific mechanism may be related to the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory properties, and ROCK/AMPK/SREBP-1c signaling pathway.

ZPI prevents ox-LDL-mediated endothelial injury leading to inhibition of EndMT, inflammation, apoptosis, and oxidative stress through activating Pi3k/Akt signal pathway

Oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL)-mediated endothelial dysfunction exerts an essential role in the development of atherosclerosis. Protein Z-dependent protease inhibitor (ZPI), a member of the serine protease inhibitor superfamily, could inhibit the function of activated coagulation factor X (FXa) via interaction with protein Z (PZ). Studies have pointed out that ZPI was statistically related to atherosclerotic diseases, which may have a robust cardiovascular protective effect. However, the underlying mechanism of ZPI on ox-LDL-mediated endothelial injury requires further elucidation. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were treated with ox-LDL (100 μg/ml) and ZPI (10 μg/ml). Cell viability was measured by the Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Cell apoptosis, oxidative stress, and endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) were analyzed by immunofluorescence (IF). Cell migration was measured using a wound-healing assay. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis were performed to determine messenger RNA and protein expression. Ox-LDL (100 μg/ml, 48 h) significantly reduced cell viability and migration, increased EndMT, inflammation, apoptosis, and oxidative stress. The related protein expression of phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase/protein kinase B (Pi3k/Akt) signal pathway in HUVECs was also simultaneously decreased. We also discovered that ZPI treatment could prevent ox-LDL-mediated endothelial injury through the improvement of cell viability and alleviation of apoptosis, oxidative stress, EndMT, and inflammation. Thus, the protective effect of ZPI on HUVECs may be mediated by activation of the Pi3k/Akt signal pathway. ZPI may exert an important protective role in HUVECs dysfunction triggered by ox-LDL via activation of the Pi3k/Akt signal pathway. Therefore, ZPI may possess potential therapeutic effects on atherosclerotic endothelial injury-related diseases.

Gegen Qinlian pills alleviate carrageenan-induced thrombosis in mice model by regulating the HMGB1/NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling

BACKGROUND

The high incidence of thrombotic events is one of the clinical characteristics of coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19), due to a hyperinflammatory response caused by the virus. Gegen Qinlian Pills (GQP) is a Traditional Chinese Medicine that is included in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia and played an important role in the clinical fight against COVID-19. Although GQP has shown the potential to treat thrombosis, there is no relevant research on its treatment of thrombosis so far.

HYPOTHESIS

We hypothesized that GQP may be capable inhibit inflammation-induced thrombosis.

STUDY DESIGN

We tested our hypothesis in a carrageenan-induced thrombosis mouse model in vivo and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced human endothelial cells (HUVECs) in vitro.

METHODS

We used a carrageenan-induced mouse thrombus model to confirm the inhibitory effect of GQP on inflammation-induced thrombus. In vitro, studies in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and in silico network pharmacology analyses were performed to reveal the underlying mechanisms of GQP and determine the main components, targets, and pathways of GQP, respectively.

RESULTS

Oral administration of 227.5 mg/kg, 445 mg/kg and 910 mg/kg of GQP significantly inhibited thrombi in the lung, liver, and tail and augmented tail blood flow of carrageenan-induced mice with reduced plasma tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) and diminished expression of high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) in lung tissues. GQP ethanol extract (1, 2, or 5 μg/ml) also reduced the adhesion of platelets to LPS stimulated HUVECs. The TNF-α and the expression of HMGB1, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), and NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) in LPS stimulated HUVECs were also attenuated. Moreover, we analyzed the components of GQP and inferred the main targets, biological processes, and pathways of GQP in the treatment of inflammation-induced thrombosis through network pharmacology.

CONCLUSION

Overall, we demonstrated that GQP could reduce inflammation-induced thrombosis by inhibiting HMGB1/NFκB/NLRP3 signaling and provided an accurate explanation for the multi-target, multi-function mechanism of GQP in the treatment of thromboinflammation, and provides a reference for the clinical usage of GQP.

Tetrahedral Framework Nucleic Acids Connected with MicroRNA-126 Mimics for Applications in Vascular Inflammation, Remodeling, and Homeostasis

The repair of damaged endothelium is crucial for vascular homeostasis maintenance, which comprises the recovery of early stage impaired endothelial cells and migration of surrounding unimpaired endothelial cells. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play an indispensable role in balancing gene expression in organisms. For vascular tissues, miR-126 is one of the most important regulators and might have substantial application potential in maintaining vascular homeostasis. In this study, a type of sticky-end-modified tetrahedral framework nucleic acids (tFNAs-SE) was employed to successfully link the miR-126 5p mimic duplex, which was termed tFNAs-miR-126 5p mimics (tFNAs-MMs). Existing vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF), tFNAs-MMs can improve cell viability, resist apoptosis, and recover the state and functions of LPS-induced impaired human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). The angiogenesis ability of impaired HUVECs was recovered by tFNAs-MMs in vitro and in vivo. The mechanisms underlying these phenomena were demonstrated to be related to the downregulation of caspase3 and negative regulators of VEGF (SPRED1 and PIK3R2). Moreover, tFNAs-MMs promoted the migration and proliferation of HUVECs. Briefly, the strategy of sticky-end-modified tFNAs connecting miRNA mimics is available for miRNA gain of function, while tFNAs-MMs might be a promising agent for repairing early stage vascular damage and maintaining vascular homeostasis.

MicroRNA-136-5p from Endothelial Progenitor Cells-released Extracellular Vesicles Mediates TXNIP to Promote the Dissolution of Deep Venous Thrombosis

OBJECTIVE

Endothelial progenitor cells-released extracellular vesicles (EPCs-EVs) have previously been reported to promote the dissolution of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) through delivery of microRNA (miR). Given that, this research was projected to search the relative action of EPCs-EVs transferring of miR-136-5p in DVT.

METHODS

From EPCs transfected with miR-136-5p agomir or antagomir, EVs were extracted and then injected into DVT mice. Meanwhile, based on the treatment with EPCs-EVs loading miR-136-5p antagomir, silenced thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) lentivirus was injected into DVT mice to perform the rescue experiments. Afterwards, the length and weight of venous thrombosis, EPC apoptosis and inflammatory factors, plasmin, fibrinogen, and thrombin-antithrombin were measured. miR-136-5p and TXNIP expression in DVT mice, and their targeting relationship were evaluated.

RESULTS

miR-136-5p expression was suppressed and TXNIP expression was elevated in DVT mice. EPCs-EV reduced the length and weight of venous thrombosis, suppressed cell apoptosis and inflammatory reaction, as well as elevated level of plasmin, and reduced levels of fibrinogen and thrombin-antithrombin in DVT mice. Restored miR-136-5p loaded by EPCs-EV further attenuated DVT but EPCs-EV transfer of depleted miR-136-5p resulted in the opposite consequences. miR-136-5p targeted TXNIP and silenced TXNIP rescued the effect of EPCs-EV transfer of depleted miR-136-5p on DVT.

CONCLUSION

miR-136-5p from EPCs-EV suppresses TXNIP expression to reduce the thrombus size in DVT, offering a promising treatment target for DVT.

Protective Effects of N-Acetylcysteine on Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Respiratory Inflammation and Oxidative Stress

As the leading cause of bovine respiratory disease (BRD), bacterial pneumonia can result in tremendous losses in the herd farming industry worldwide. N-acetylcysteine (NAC), an acetylated precursor of the amino acid L-cysteine, has been reported to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. To explore the protective effect and underlying mechanisms of NAC in ALI, we investigated its role in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced bovine embryo tracheal cells (EBTr) and mouse lung injury models. We found that NAC pretreatment attenuated LPS-induced inflammation in EBTr and mouse models. Moreover, LPS suppressed the expression of oxidative-related factors in EBTr and promoted gene expression and the secretion of inflammatory cytokines. Conversely, the pretreatment of NAC alleviated the secretion of inflammatory cytokines and decreased their mRNA levels, maintaining stable levels of antioxidative gene expression. In vivo, NAC helped LPS-induced inflammatory responses and lung injury in ALI mice. The relative protein concentration, total cells, and percentage of neutrophils in BALF; the level of secretion of IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, and IL-1β; MPO activity; lung injury score; and the expression level of inflammatory-related genes were decreased significantly in the NAC group compared with the LPS group. NAC also ameliorated LPS-induced mRNA level changes in antioxidative genes. In conclusion, our findings suggest that NAC affects the inflammatory and oxidative response, alleviating LPS-induced EBTr inflammation and mouse lung injury, which offers a natural therapeutic strategy for BRD.

Quercetin regulates vascular endothelium function in chronic renal failure via modulation of Eph/Cav-1 signaling

Arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is frequently believed to be the best vascular access for chronic renal failure (CRF) patients. Vascular endothelial cell dysfunction has been implicated in AVF maturation. Quercetin (Quer) is a natural polyphenolic compound widely used in traditional Chinese medicine. We aimed to uncover the impacts of Quer on vascular endothelial cells in a CRF rat model and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and serum from rat with CRF. Blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine levels were tested in CRF rat model after administration of Quer. H&E staining was used to estimate endothelial damage. Nitric oxide (NO), endothelial NO synthase (eNOS), EPH receptor B4 (EphB4), EphrinB2, and p-caveolin-1 (p-Cav-1) levels in the serum were examined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Western blot was employed to analyze the expressions of eNOS, phosphorylated (p)-eNOS, EphB4, and Cav-1 in arterial tissues and HUVECs. Cell counting kit-8 was applied for assessing cell proliferation. TUNEL (terminal-deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated nick end labeling) assay was employed to estimate cell apoptosis. Results showed that Quer ameliorated renal function impairment and endothelial injury in vivo. Meanwhile, Quer boosted the proliferation and suppressed the apoptosis of HUVECs stimulated by LPS and serum from rat with CRF. Additionally, Quer elevated NO and eNOS levels, upregulated p-eNOS expression but downregulated EphB4, EphrinB2, and p-Cav-1 expressions. Moreover, EphB4 inhibitor had the similar effect as Quer treatment in HUVECs stimulated by LPS and serum from rat with CRF. Collectively, Quer might effectively regulate vascular function to prevent AVF failure in CRF via modulation of Eph/Cav-1 signaling.

Comparative transcriptome analysis reveals immunoregulation mechanism of lncRNA-mRNA in gill and skin of large yellow croaker (Larimichthys crocea) in response to Cryptocaryon irritans infection

Background

Cryptocaryonosis caused by Cryptocaryon irritans is one of the major diseases of large yellow croaker (Larimichthys crocea), which lead to massive economic losses annually to the aquaculture industry of L. crocea. Although there have been some studies on the pathogenesis for cryptocaryonosis, little is known about the innate defense mechanism of different immune organs of large yellow croaker.

Results

In order to analyze the roles of long non-coding RNAs and genes specifically expressed between immune organs during the infection of C. irritans, in this study, by comparing transcriptome data from different tissues of L. crocea, we identified tissue-specific transcripts in the gills and skin, including 507 DE lncRNAs and 1592 DEGs identified in the gills, and 110 DE lncRNAs and 1160 DEGs identified in the skin. Furthermore, we constructed transcriptome co-expression profiles of L. crocea gill and skin, including 7,503 long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and 23,172 protein-coding genes. Gene Ontology (GO) annotation and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses showed that the DEGs and the target genes of the DE lncRNAs in the gill were specifically enriched in several pathways related to immune such as HIF-1 signaling pathway. The target genes of DE lncRNAs and DEGs in the skin are specifically enriched in the complement and coagulation cascade pathways. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) network analysis identified 3 hub genes including NFKBIA, TNFAIP3 and CEBPB, and 5 important DE lncRNAs including MSTRG.24134.4, MSTRG.3038.5, MSTRG.27019.3, MSTRG.26559.1, and MSTRG.10983.1. The expression patterns of 6 randomly selected differentially expressed immune-related genes were validated using the quantitative real-time PCR method.

Conclusions

In short, our study is helpful to explore the potential interplay between lncRNAs and protein coding genes in different tissues of L. crocea post C. irritans and the molecular mechanism of pathogenesis for cryptocaryonosis.

Highlights

Skin and gills are important sources of pro-inflammatory molecules, and their gene expression patterns are tissue-specific after C. irritans infection.

15 DEGs and 5 DE lncRNAs were identified as hub regulatory elements after C. irritans infection

The HIF-1 signaling pathway and the complement and coagulation cascade pathway may be key tissue-specific regulatory pathways in gills and skin, respectively.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12864-022-08431-w.

Dapagliflozin attenuates cholesterol overloading-induced injury in mice hepatocytes with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) via eliminating oxidative damages

Cholesterol overloading-induced damages on hepatocytes cause liver dysfunctions, which further damages cholesterol metabolism and results in visceral fat accumulation in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor Dapagliflozin has been reported to regulate cholesterol levels in T2DM patients, but the underlying mechanisms have not been studied. In the present study, we initially established in vivo T2DM mice models, and our results showed that both free cholesterol (FC) and cholesteryl ester (CE) were accumulated, while the pro-proliferation associated genes were downregulated in T2DM mice liver tissues, which were reversed by Dapagliflozin co-treatment. Similarly, the mice primary hepatocytes were loaded with cholesterol to establish in vitro models, and we expectedly found that Dapagliflozin attenuated cholesterol-overloading induced cytotoxicity and cellular senescence in the hepatocytes. Then, we noticed that oxidative damages occurred in T2DM mice liver tissues and cholesterol treated hepatocytes, which could be suppressed by Dapagliflozin. Also, elimination of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) by N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) recovered cellular functions of hepatocytes in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, the potential underlying mechanisms were uncovered, and our data suggested that Dapagliflozin activated the anti-oxidant Nrf2/HO-1 pathway in mice hepatocytes, and silencing of Nrf2 abrogated the protective effects of Dapagliflozin on cholesterol-overloaded hepatocytes. Collectively, we concluded that Dapagliflozin recovered cholesterol metabolism functions in T2DM mice liver via activating the anti-oxidant Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, and our data supported that Dapagliflozin was a potential therapeutic drug to eliminate cholesterol-induced cytotoxicity during T2DM pathogenesis.

MiR-29b-3p Inhibits the Inflammation Injury in Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells by Regulating SEC23A

This study aims to investigate the effects of miR-29b-3p on the inflammation injury of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and explore the underlying mechanisms. The effects of different concentrations of LPS (0, 1, 5 and 10 μg/mL) on inflammation injury in HUVECs are detected by ELISA, CCK-8, EdU, flow cytometry and western blot analyses to determine the optimal stimulus concentration. After stimulating HUVECs with 10 μg/mL LPS, the expression levels of miR-29b-3p are detected, and the effects of miR-29b-3p on inflammation injury are detected by ELISA, CCK-8, EdU, flow cytometry and western blot analyses. Bioinformatic analysis, luciferase reporter assay and confirmatory experiments are applied to identify the target gene bound with miR-29b-3p. Rescue experiments have verified the roles of miR-29b-3p and the target gene in inflammation injury. We found that pro-inflammatory factor was increased, apoptosis was promoted, and cell proliferation was inhibited after the treatment of LPS in HUVECs. Overexpression of miR-29b-3p inhibited LPS-induced inflammatory response and apoptosis while promoting proliferation in HUVECs. Besides, bioinformatics analysis indicated that SEC23A was the target gene of miR-29b-3p and the confirmatory experiments showed that SEC23A was negatively correlated with miR-29b-3p and positively correlated with LPS concentration. Rescue experiments revealed that overexpression of SEC23A partially enhanced the inflammation injury effects in LPS-induced HUVECs with overexpression of miR-29b-3p. Hence, miR-29b-3p repressed inflammatory response, cell apoptosis and promoted cell proliferation in LPS-induced HUVECs by targeting SEC23A, providing a potential target for treating sepsis.

Nitric oxide inhibits endothelial cell apoptosis by inhibiting cysteine-dependent SOD1 monomerization

Endothelial cell apoptosis is an important pathophysiology in many cardiovascular diseases. The gasotransmitter nitric oxide (NO) is known to regulate cell survival and apoptosis. However, the mechanism underlying the effect of NO remains unclear. In this research, by targeting cytosolic copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (SOD1) monomerization, we aimed to explore how NO inhibited endothelial cell apoptosis. We showed that treatment with the NO synthase (NOS) inhibitor nomega‐nitro‐l‐arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (L‐NAME) significantly decreased the endogenous NO content of endothelial cells, facilitated the formation of SOD1 monomers, inhibited dismutase activity, and promoted reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs); by contrast, supplementation with the NO donor sodium nitroprusside (SNP) upregulated NO content, prevented the formation of SOD1 monomers, enhanced dismutase activity, and reduced ROS accumulation in L‐NAME‐treated HUVECs. Mechanistically, tris(2‐carboxyethyl) phosphine hydrochloride (TCEP), a specific reducer of cysteine thiol, increased SOD1 monomer formation, thus preventing the NO‐induced increase in dismutase activity and the decrease in ROS. Furthermore, SNP inhibited HUVEC apoptosis caused by the decrease in endogenous NO, whereas TCEP abolished this protective effect of SNP. In summary, our data reveal that NO protects endothelial cells against apoptosis by inhibiting cysteine‐dependent SOD1 monomerization to enhance SOD1 activity and inhibit oxidative stress.

Blocking REDD1/TXNIP Complex Ameliorates HG-Induced Renal Tubular Epithelial Cell Apoptosis and EMT through Repressing Oxidative Stress

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) has become the most common secondary kidney disease causing end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Nevertheless, the underlying mechanisms responsible for DN remain largely unknown. Regulated in development and DNA damage response 1 (REDD1) is a prooxidative molecule known to contribute to diabetes mellitus and its complications. However, it has not been previously examined whether and how REDD1 can further drive renal tubular epithelial cell (RTEC) apoptosis and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in DN. The expression of REDD1 was elevated in the kidneys of DN patients and diabetic mice in this study. By generating the DN model in REDD1 knockout mice, we demonstrated that REDD1 deficiency significantly improved apoptosis and EMT in diabetic mice. In vitro experiments showed that REDD1 generation was induced by high glucose (HG) in HK-2 cells. Similarly, the transfection of REDD1 siRNA plasmid also suppressed HG-induced apoptosis and EMT. Furthermore, we discovered that the inhibition of REDD1 suppressed the expression of Nox4-induced HG and reactive oxygen species (ROS) synthesis in HK-2 cells. In addition, HG could induce endogenous REDD1 and TXNIP to form a powerful complex. In summary, our findings demonstrate that blocking the REDD1/TXNIP complex can prevent HG-induced apoptosis and EMT by inhibiting ROS production, highlighting REDD1 as a valuable therapeutic priority site for DN.

Evaluation of Endothelial Dysfunction and Autophagy in Fibromyalgia-Related Vascular and Cerebral Cortical Changes and the Ameliorative Effect of Fisetin

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a common chronic pain syndrome that affects 1% to 5% of the population. We aimed to investigate the role of endothelial dysfunction and autophagy in fibromyalgia-related vascular and cerebral cortical changes in a reserpine-induced rat model of fibromyalgia at the histological and molecular levels and to study the ameliorative effect of fisetin. Forty adult female albino rats were divided into four groups (10 each): two control groups, the reserpine-induced fibromyalgia group, and the fisetin-treated group. The carotid arteries and brains of the animals were dissected. Frozen tissue samples were used for total RNA extraction and qPCR analysis of eNOS, caspase-3, Bcl-2, LC-3, BECN-1, CHOP, and TNF-α expression. Histological, immunohistochemical (eNOS), and ultrastructure studies were conducted. The carotid arteries revealed excessive autophagy and endothelial, vascular, and apoptotic changes. The cerebral cortex showed similar findings apart from endoplasmic reticulum stress. Additionally, there was decreased gene expression of eNOS and Bcl-2 and increased expression of caspase-3, LC-3, BECN-1, CHOP, and TNF-α. In the fisetin-treated rats, improvements in the histological and molecular results were detected. In conclusion, oxidative stress, enhanced apoptosis, and excessive autophagy are fundamental pathophysiologic mechanisms of reserpine-induced fibromyalgia. Moreover, fisetin has an ameliorative effect against fibromyalgia.

MicroRNA-383-5p Regulates Oxidative Stress in Mice with Acute Myocardial Infarction through the AMPK Signaling Pathway via PFKM

Objective

The purpose of this study is to explore the regulating role of microRNA-383-5p (miR-383-5p) in oxidative stress after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) through AMPK pathway via phosphofructokinase muscle-type (PFKM).

Methods

We established the AMI model, and the model mice were injected with miR-383-5p agomir to study the effect of miR-383-5p in AMPK signaling pathways. The target gene for miR-383-5p was reported to be PFKM, so we hypothesized that overexpression of miR-383-5p inhibits activation of the AMPK signaling pathway.

Results

In this research, we found that overexpression of miR-383-5p decreases myocardial oxidative stress, myocardial apoptosis, the expression level of PFKM malondialdehyde (MDA), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the myocardial tissues after AMI, and finally, AMI-induced cardiac systolic and diastolic function could be improved.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that miR-383-5p could reduce the oxidative stress after AMI through AMPK signaling pathway by targeting PFKM.

Senolytic Combination of Dasatinib and Quercetin Alleviates Intestinal Senescence and Inflammation and Modulates the Gut Microbiome in Aged Mice

Cellular senescence contributes to age-related disorders including physical dysfunction, disabilities, and mortality caused by tissue inflammation and damage. Senescent cells accumulate in multiple tissues with aging and at etiological sites of multiple chronic disorders. The senolytic drug combination, Dasatinib plus Quercetin (D+Q), is known to reduce senescent cell abundance in aged mice. However, the effects of long-term D+Q treatment on intestinal senescent cell and inflammatory burden and microbiome composition in aged mice remain unknown. Here, we examine the effect of D+Q on senescence (p16Ink4a and p21Cip1) and inflammation (Cxcl1, Il1β, Il6, Mcp1, and Tnfα) markers in small (ileum) and large (caecum and colon) intestine in aged mice (n = 10) compared to age-matched placebo-treated mice (n = 10). Additionally, we examine microbial composition along the intestinal tract in these mice. D+Q-treated mice show significantly lower senescent cell (p16 and p21 expression) and inflammatory (Cxcl1, Il1β, Il6, Mcp1, and Tnfα expression) burden in small and large intestine compared with control mice. Further, we find specific microbial signatures in ileal, cecal, colonic, and fecal regions that are distinctly modulated by D+Q, with modulation being most prominent in small intestine. Further analyses reveal specific correlation of senescence and inflammation markers with specific microbial signatures. Together, these data demonstrate that the senolytic treatment reduces intestinal senescence and inflammation while altering specific microbiota signatures and suggest that the optimized senolytic regimens might improve health via reducing intestinal senescence, inflammation, and microbial dysbiosis in older subjects.

The REDD1/TXNIP Complex Accelerates Oxidative Stress-Induced Apoptosis of Nucleus Pulposus Cells through the Mitochondrial Pathway

The death of nucleus pulposus (NP) cells is an important cause of intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration. Redox disturbance caused by dysfunctional mitochondria has been considered as a vital risk for NP cell survival. It is valuable to identify key proteins maintaining mitochondrial function in NP cells. A previous study found that regulated in development and DNA damage response 1 (REDD1) are upregulated during intervertebral disc degeneration and that REDD1 can cause NP cell apoptosis. Thus, the present study further explores the effect of REDD1 on IVD degeneration. Our results showed that REDD1 promotes NP cell apoptosis via the mitochondrial pathway. Importantly, REDD1 formed a complex with TXNIP to strengthen its own action, and the combination was consolidated under H₂O₂-induced oxidative stress. The combined inhibition of the REDD1/TXNIP complex was better than that of REDD1 or TXNIP alone in restoring cell proliferation and accelerating apoptosis. Moreover, p53 acts as the transcription factor of REDD1 to regulate the REDD1/TXNIP complex under oxidative stress. Altogether, our results demonstrated that the REDD1/TXNIP complex mediated H₂O₂-induced human NP cell apoptosis and IVD degeneration through the mitochondrial pathway. Interferences on these sites to achieve mitochondrial redox homeostasis may be a novel therapeutic strategy for oxidative stress-associated IVD degeneration.

Early Stress-Response Gene REDD1 Controls Oxazolone-Induced Allergic Contact Dermatitis

REDD1 is an energy sensor and stress-induced mTOR inhibitor. Recently, its novel role in linking metabolism and inflammation/immune responses has emerged. In this study, we assessed the role of REDD1 in murine oxazolone-induced allergic contact dermatitis (ACD), a T cell-dependent model with features of human ACD. A variety of immune indices, including edema, cellular infiltration, inflammatory gene expression, and glucocorticoid response, were compared in Redd1 knockout (KO) and isogenic (C57BL/6 × 129)F1 wild-type mice after sensitization and subsequent ear challenge with oxazolone. Despite relatively normal thymic profiles and similar T cell populations in the lymph nodes of naive Redd1 KO mice, early T cell expansion and cytokine production were profoundly impaired after sensitization. Surprisingly, higher steady-state populations of CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells, as well as macrophages (CD45⁺/Ly-6G^-/CD11b⁺), dendritic cells (CD45⁺/Ly-6G^-/CD11c⁺), neutrophils (CD45⁺/Ly-6G⁺/CD11b⁺), and innate lymphoid cells (CD45⁺/Lineage^-/IL-7Ra⁺/ST2⁺/c-Kit⁺), were observed in the ears of naive Redd1 KO mice. Upon challenge, ear edema, T cell, macrophage, neutrophil, and dendritic cell infiltration into the ear was significantly reduced in Redd1 KO animals. Accordingly, we observed significantly lower induction of IFN-γ, IL-4, and other cytokines as well as proinflammatory factors, including TSLP, IL-33, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α, in challenged ears of Redd1 KO mice. The response to glucocorticoid treatment was also diminished. Taken together, these data establish REDD1 as an essential immune modulator that influences both the initiation of ACD disease, by driving naive T cell activation, and the effector phase, by promoting immune cell trafficking in T cell-mediated skin inflammation.

Elephant seal muscle cells adapt to sustained glucocorticoid exposure by shifting their metabolic phenotype

Elephant seals experience natural periods of prolonged food deprivation while breeding, molting, and undergoing postnatal development. Prolonged food deprivation in elephant seals increases circulating glucocorticoids without inducing muscle atrophy, but the cellular mechanisms that allow elephant seals to cope with such conditions remain elusive. We generated a cellular model and conducted transcriptomic, metabolic, and morphological analyses to study how seal cells adapt to sustained glucocorticoid exposure. Seal muscle progenitor cells differentiate into contractile myotubes with a distinctive morphology, gene expression profile, and metabolic phenotype. Exposure to dexamethasone at three ascending concentrations for 48 h modulated the expression of six clusters of genes related to structural constituents of muscle and pathways associated with energy metabolism and cell survival. Knockdown of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and downstream expression analyses corroborated that GR mediates the observed effects. Dexamethasone also decreased cellular respiration, shifted the metabolic phenotype toward glycolysis, and induced mitochondrial fission and dissociation of mitochondria-endoplasmic reticulum (ER) interactions without decreasing cell viability. Knockdown of DNA damage-inducible transcript 4 (DDIT4), a GR target involved in the dissociation of mitochondria-ER membranes, recovered respiration and modulated antioxidant gene expression in myotubes treated with dexamethasone. These results show that adaptation to sustained glucocorticoid exposure in elephant seal myotubes involves a metabolic shift toward glycolysis, which is supported by alterations in mitochondrial morphology and a reduction in mitochondria-ER interactions, resulting in decreased respiration without compromising cell survival.

Geniposide Combined With Notoginsenoside R1 Attenuates Inflammation and Apoptosis in Atherosclerosis via the AMPK/mTOR/Nrf2 Signaling Pathway

Inflammation and apoptosis of vascular endothelial cells play a key role in the occurrence and development of atherosclerosis (AS), and the AMPK/mTOR/Nrf2 signaling pathway plays an important role in alleviating the symptoms of AS. Geniposide combined with notoginsenoside R1 (GN combination) is a patented supplement for the prevention and treatment of AS. It has been proven to improve blood lipid levels and inhibit the formation of AS plaques; however, it is still unclear whether GN combination can inhibit inflammation and apoptosis in AS by regulating the AMPK/mTOR/Nrf2 signaling pathway and its downstream signals. Our results confirmed that the GN combination could improve blood lipid levels and plaque formation in ApoE^−/− mice fed with a high-fat diet (HFD), inhibit the secretion of serum inflammatory factors and oxidative stress factors. It also decreased the expression of pyrin domain containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome-related protein and Bax/Bcl2/caspase-3 pathway-related proteins. At the same time, the GN combination could also inhibit the H₂O₂-induced inflammatory response and apoptosis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), which is mainly related to the activation of the AMPK/mTOR pathway by GN combination, which in turn induces the activation of Nrf2/HO-1 signal. In addition, the above phenomenon could be significantly reversed by dorsomorphin. Therefore, our experiments proved for the first time that the GN combination can effectively inhibit AS inflammation and apoptosis by activating the AMPK/mTOR/Nrf2 signaling pathway to inhibit the NLRP3 inflammasome and Bax/Bcl2/caspase-3 pathway.

Bakkenolide‑IIIa ameliorates lipopolysaccharide‑induced inflammatory injury in human umbilical vein endothelial cells by upregulating LINC00294

Inflammation, which causes injury to vascular endothelial cells, is one of the major factors associated with atherosclerosis (AS); therefore, inhibition of endothelial inflammation is a key step toward preventing AS. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of bakkenolide-IIIa (Bak-IIIa), an important active component of bakkenolides, on endothelial inflammation, as well as the mechanisms underlying such effects. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-damaged human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were treated with Bak-IIIa. The results of the MTT assay and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay indicated that Bak-IIIa significantly alleviated survival inhibition, and decreased the levels of LPS-induced TNF-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-8, and IL-6. Furthermore, long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) microarray analyses revealed 70 differentially expressed lncRNAs (DELs) in LPS-damaged HUVECs treated with Bak-IIIa. lncRNA target prediction results revealed that 44 DELs had 52 cis-targets, whereas 12 DELs covered 386 trans-targets. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analyses of the trans-targets indicated that three GO terms were associated with inflammation. Therefore, 17 targets involved in these GO terms and six relevant DELs were screened out. Validation via reverse transcription-quantitative PCR indicated that the fold change of NR_015451 (LINC00294) was the highest among the six candidates and that overexpression of LINC00294 significantly alleviated LPS-induced survival inhibition and inflammatory damage in HUVECs. In conclusion, Bak-IIIa ameliorated LPS-induced inflammatory damage in HUVECs by upregulating LINC00294. Thus, Bak-IIIa exhibited potential for preventing vascular inflammation.