Ion Channels and Oxidative Stress as a Potential Link for the Diagnosis or Treatment of Liver Diseases

Captopril's influence on Danio rerio embryonic development: Unveiling significant toxic outcomes at environmentally relevant concentrations

Anticipating a global increase in cardiovascular diseases, there is an expected surge in the use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, notably captopril (CAP). This heightened usage raises significant environmental apprehensions, mainly due to limited knowledge regarding CAP's toxic effects on aquatic species. In response to these concerns, the current study aimed to tackle this knowledge gap by evaluating the potential influence of nominal concentrations of CAP (0.2-2000 μg/L) on the embryonic development of Danio rerio. The findings revealed that CAP at all concentrations, even at concentrations considered environmentally significant (0.2 and 2 μg/L), induced various malformations in the embryos, ultimately leading to their mortality. Main malformations included pericardial edema, craniofacial malformation, scoliosis, tail deformation, and yolk sac deformation. In addition, CAP significantly altered the antioxidant activity of superoxide dismutase and catalase across all concentrations. Simultaneously, it elevated lipid peroxidation levels, hydroperoxides, and carbonylic proteins in the embryos, eliciting a substantial oxidative stress response. Likewise, CAP, at all concentrations, exerted significant modulatory effects on the expression of genes associated with apoptosis (bax, bcl2, p53, and casp3), organogenesis (tbx2a, tbx2b, and irx3b), and ion exchange (slc12a1 and kcnj1) in Danio rerio embryos. Both augmentation and reduction in the expression levels of these genes characterized this modulation. The Pearson correlation analysis indicated a close association between oxidative damage biomarkers and the expression patterns of all examined genes with the elevated incidence of malformations and mortality in the embryos. In summary, it can be deduced that CAP poses a threat to aquatic species. Nevertheless, further research is imperative to enhance our understanding of the environmental implications of this pharmaceutical compound.

Aging as a loss of morphostatic information: A developmental bioelectricity perspective

Maintaining order at the tissue level is crucial throughout the lifespan, as failure can lead to cancer and an accumulation of molecular and cellular disorders. Perhaps, the most consistent and pervasive result of these failures is aging, which is characterized by the progressive loss of function and decline in the ability to maintain anatomical homeostasis and reproduce. This leads to organ malfunction, diseases, and ultimately death. The traditional understanding of aging is that it is caused by the accumulation of molecular and cellular damage. In this article, we propose a complementary view of aging from the perspective of endogenous bioelectricity which has not yet been integrated into aging research. We propose a view of aging as a morphostasis defect, a loss of biophysical prepattern information, encoding anatomical setpoints used for dynamic tissue and organ homeostasis. We hypothesize that this is specifically driven by abrogation of the endogenous bioelectric signaling that normally harnesses individual cell behaviors toward the creation and upkeep of complex multicellular structures in vivo. Herein, we first describe bioelectricity as the physiological software of life, and then identify and discuss the links between bioelectricity and life extension strategies and age-related diseases. We develop a bridge between aging and regeneration via bioelectric signaling that suggests a research program for healthful longevity via morphoceuticals. Finally, we discuss the broader implications of the homologies between development, aging, cancer and regeneration and how morphoceuticals can be developed for aging.

Oxidative stress and ion channels in neurodegenerative diseases

Numerous neurodegenerative diseases result from altered ion channel function and mutations. The intracellular redox status can significantly alter the gating characteristics of ion channels. Abundant neurodegenerative diseases associated with oxidative stress have been documented, including Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, spinocerebellar ataxia, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Huntington's disease. Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species compounds trigger posttranslational alterations that target specific sites within the subunits responsible for channel assembly. These alterations include the adjustment of cysteine residues through redox reactions induced by reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitration, and S-nitrosylation assisted by nitric oxide of tyrosine residues through peroxynitrite. Several ion channels have been directly investigated for their functional responses to oxidizing agents and oxidative stress. This review primarily explores the relationship and potential links between oxidative stress and ion channels in neurodegenerative conditions, such as cerebellar ataxias and Parkinson's disease. The potential correlation between oxidative stress and ion channels could hold promise for developing innovative therapies for common neurodegenerative diseases.

Genetic variants and effect modifiers of QT interval prolongation in patients with sickle cell disease

BACKGROUND

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a common inherited blood disorder among African Americans (AA), with premature mortality which has been associated with prolongation of the heart rate-corrected QT interval (QTc), a known risk factor for sudden cardiac death. Although numerous genetic variants have been identified as contributors to QT interval prolongation in the general population, their impact on SCD patients remains unclear. This study used an unweighted polygenic risk score (PRS) to validate the previously identified associations between SNPs and QTc interval in SCD patients, and to explore possible interactions with other factors that prolong QTc interval in AA individuals with SCD.

METHODS

In SCD patients, candidate genetic variants associated with the QTc interval were genotyped. To identify any risk SNPs that may be correlated with QTc interval prolongation, linear regression was employed, and an unweighted PRS was subsequently constructed. The effect of PRS on the QTc interval was evaluated using linear regression, while stratification analysis was used to assess the influence of serum alanine transaminase (ALT), a biomarker for liver disease, on the PRS effect. We also evaluated the PRS with the two subcomponents of QTc, the QRS and JTc intervals.

RESULTS

Out of 26 candidate SNPs, five risk SNPs were identified for QTc duration under the recessive model. For every unit increase in PRS, the QTc interval prolonged by 4.0 ms (95% CI: [2.0, 6.1]; p-value: <0.001) in the additive model and 9.4 ms in the recessive model (95% CI: [4.6, 14.1]; p-value: <0.001). Serum ALT showed a modification effect on PRS-QTc prolongation under the recessive model. In the normal ALT group, each PRS unit increased QTc interval by 11.7 ms (95% CI: [6.3, 17.1]; p-value: 2.60E-5), whereas this effect was not observed in the elevated ALT group (0.9 ms; 95% CI: [-7.0, 8.8]; p-value: 0.823).

CONCLUSION

Several candidate genetic variants are associated with QTc interval prolongation in SCD patients, and serum ALT acts as a modifying factor. The association of a CPS1 gene variant in both QTc and JTc duration adds to NOS1AP as evidence of involvement of the urea cycle and nitric oxide metabolism in cardiac repolarization in SCD. Larger replication studies are needed to confirm these findings and elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

Reduction of cryopreservation-induced structural, functional and molecular damages in ram sperm by hydrated C60 fullerene

This study aimed to investigate the morphological, functional and molecular changes in frozen-thawed ram sperm using an extender containing different concentrations of hydrated carbon 60 fullerene (C60 HyFn), a nanotechnological product. Semen taken from each of the seven Akkaraman rams were pooled. Semen collection was done twice a week and it continued for 3 weeks. Each pooled semen sample was divided into six equal groups and diluted with tris + egg yolk extender including 0 (control), 200, 400, 800 nM, 1 and 5 μM concentrations of C60 HyFn at 37°C. They were then frozen in liquid nitrogen vapour at -140°C, stored in liquid nitrogen container (-196°C) and thawed at 37°C for 25 s before analysis. In comparison with control, C60 HyFn addition prior to freezing procedure provided significant increases in total and progressive motility rates, glutathione peroxidase, catalase activities and percentage of highly active mitochondria, and significant decreases in dead and abnormal sperm rates, lipid peroxidation, caspase-3 and DNA fragmentation levels in frozen-thawed ram semen. When compared to control, C60 HyFn supplementation significantly down-regulated the expression levels of miR-200a and KCNJ11, and significantly up-regulated the expression levels of miR-3958-3p (at the concentrations of 200, 400, 800 nM and 1 μM), CatSper1 (at the concentrations of 200, 400 nM and 5 μM), CatSper2 (at the concentrations of 1 and 5 μM), CatSper3 (at the concentrations of 200, 400 nM, 1 and 5 μM), CatSper4 (at all concentrations), ANO1 (at the concentrations of 800 nM, 1 and 5 μM) and TRPV5 (at the concentrations of 200, 400 and 800 nM). The addition of C60 HyFn had no effect on global DNA methylation rates. As a result, C60 HyFn supplementation to ram semen extenders may be beneficial in reducing some of the functional, structural and molecular damages in sperm induced by the freeze-thawing procedure.

Biological Effects of Magnetic Storms and ELF Magnetic Fields

Magnetic fields are a constant and essential part of our environment. The main components of ambient magnetic fields are the constant part of the geomagnetic field, its fluctuations caused by magnetic storms, and man-made magnetic fields. These fields refer to extremely-low-frequency (<1 kHz) magnetic fields (ELF-MFs). Since the 1980s, a huge amount of data has been accumulated on the biological effects of magnetic fields, in particular ELF-MFs. However, a unified picture of the patterns of action of magnetic fields has not been formed. Even though a unified mechanism has not yet been generally accepted, several theories have been proposed. In this review, we attempted to take a new approach to analyzing the quantitative data on the effects of ELF-MFs to identify new potential areas for research. This review provides general descriptions of the main effects of magnetic storms and anthropogenic fields on living organisms (molecular-cellular level and whole organism) and a brief description of the main mechanisms of magnetic field effects on living organisms. This review may be of interest to specialists in the fields of biology, physics, medicine, and other interdisciplinary areas.

Simulated microgravity-induced oxidative stress and loss of osteogenic potential of osteoblasts can be prevented by protection of primary cilia

Oxidative stress has been considered to be closely related to spaceflight-induced bone loss; however, mechanism is elusive and there are no effective countermeasures. Using cultured rat calvarial osteoblasts exposed to microgravity simulated by a random positioning machine, this study addressed the hypotheses that microgravity-induced shortening of primary cilia leads to oxidative stress and that primary cilium protection prevents oxidative stress and osteogenesis loss. Microgravity was found to induce oxidative stress (as represented by increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde production, and decreased activities of antioxidant enzymes), which was perfectly replicated in osteoblasts growing in NG with abrogated primary cilia (created by transfection of an interfering RNA), suggesting the possibility that shortening of primary cilia leads to oxidative stress. Oxidative stress was accompanied by mitochondrial dysfunction (represented by increased mitochondrial ROS and decreased mitochondrial membrane potential) and intracellular Ca2+ overload, and the latter was found to be caused by increased activity of Ca2+ channel transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4), as also evidenced by TRPV4 agonist GSK1016790A-elicited Ca2+ influx. Supplementation of HC-067047, a specific antagonist of TRPV4, attenuated microgravity-induced mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and osteogenesis loss. Although TRPV4 was found localized in primary cilia and expressed at low levels in NG, microgravity-induced shortening of primary cilia led to increased TRPV4 levels and Ca2+ influx. When primary cilia were protected by miR-129-3p overexpression or supplementation with a natural flavonoid moslosooflavone, microgravity-induced increased TRPV4 expression, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and osteogenesis loss were all prevented. Our data revealed a new mechanism that primary cilia function as a controller for TRPV4 expression. Microgravity-induced injury on primary cilia leads to increased expression and overactive channel of TRPV4, causing intracellular Ca2+ overload and oxidative stress, and primary cilium protection could be an effective countermeasure against microgravity-induced oxidative stress and loss of osteogenic potential of osteoblasts.

Potassium channels activity unveils cancer vulnerability

"No cell could exist without ion channels" (Clay Armstrong; 1999). Since the discovery in the early 1950s, that ions move across biological membranes, the idea that changes of ionic gradients can generate biological signals has fascinated scientists in any fields. Soon later (1960s) it was found that ionic flows were controlled by a class of specific and selective proteins called ion channels. Thus, it became clear that the concerted activities of these proteins can initiate, arrest, and finely tune a variety of biochemical cascades which offered the opportunity to better understand both biology and pathology. Cancer is a disease that is notoriously difficult to treat due its heterogeneous nature which makes it the deadliest disease in the developed world. Recently, emerging evidence has established that potassium channels are critical modulators of several hallmarks of cancer including tumor growth, metastasis, and metabolism. Nevertheless, the role of potassium ion channels in cancer biology and the therapeutic potential offered by targeting these proteins has not been explored thoroughly. This chapter is addressed to both cancer biologists and ion channels scientists and it aims to shine a light on the established and potential roles of potassium ion channels in cancer biology and on the therapeutic benefit of targeting potassium channels with activator molecules.

Biomimetic Hyaluronic Acid-Based Brush Polymers Modulate Chondrocyte Homeostasis via ROS/Ca2+/TRPV4

Bionic mimics using natural cartilage matrix molecules can modulate the corresponding metabolic activity by improving the microenvironment of chondrocytes. A bionic brush polymer, HA/PX, has been found to reverse the loss of cartilage extracellular matrix (ECM) and has promising applications in the clinical treatment of osteoarthritis (OA). However, the unknown bioremediation mechanism of HA/PX severely hinders its clinical translation. In OA, the massive loss of the ECM may be attributed to a decrease in transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) activity, which affects reactive oxygen species (ROS) clearance and [Ca2+]i signaling, initiating downstream catabolic pathways. In this study, we investigated the bioremediation mechanism of HA/PX in a model of interleukin 1β (IL-1β)-induced inflammation. Through TRPV4, HA/PX reduced ROS accumulation in chondrocytes and enhanced [Ca2+]i signaling, reflecting a short-term protection capacity for chondrocytes. In addition, HA/PX balanced the metabolic homeostasis of chondrocytes via TRPV4, including promoting the secretion of type II collagen (Col-II) and aggrecan, the major components of the ECM, and reducing the expression of matrix metal-degrading enzyme (MMP-13), exerting long-term protective effects on chondrocytes. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations showed that HA/PX could act as a TRPV4 activator. Our results suggest that HA/PX can regulate chondrocyte homeostasis via ROS/Ca2+/TRPV4, thereby improving cartilage regeneration. Because the ECM is a prevalent feature of various cell types, HA/PX holds promising potential for improving regeneration and disease modification for not only cartilage-related healthcare but many other tissues and diseases.

Electromagnetic fields regulate calcium-mediated cell fate of stem cells: osteogenesis, chondrogenesis and apoptosis

Electromagnetic fields (EMF) are increasing in popularity as a safe and non-invasive therapy. On the one hand, it is widely acknowledged that EMF can regulate the proliferation and differentiation of stem cells, promoting the undifferentiated cells capable of osteogenesis, angiogenesis, and chondroblast differentiation to achieve bone repair purpose. On the other hand, EMF can inhibit tumor stem cells proliferation and promote apoptosis to suppress tumor growth. As an essential second messenger, intracellular calcium plays a role in regulating cell cycle, such as proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis. There is increasing evidence that the modulation of intracellular calcium ion by EMF leads to differential outcomes in different stem cells. This review summarizes the regulation of channels, transporters, and ion pumps by EMF-induced calcium oscillations. It furtherly discusses the role of molecules and pathways activated by EMF-dependent calcium oscillations in promoting bone and cartilage repair and inhibiting tumor stem cells growth.

Morphoceuticals: perspectives for discovery of drugs targeting anatomical control mechanisms in regenerative medicine, cancer and aging

Morphoceuticals are a new class of interventions that target the setpoints of anatomical homeostasis for efficient, modular control of growth and form. Here, we focus on a subclass: electroceuticals, which specifically target the cellular bioelectrical interface. Cellular collectives in all tissues form bioelectrical networks via ion channels and gap junctions that process morphogenetic information, controlling gene expression and allowing cell networks to adaptively and dynamically control growth and pattern formation. Recent progress in understanding this physiological control system, including predictive computational models, suggests that targeting bioelectrical interfaces can control embryogenesis and maintain shape against injury, senescence and tumorigenesis. We propose a roadmap for drug discovery focused on manipulating endogenous bioelectric signaling for regenerative medicine, cancer suppression and antiaging therapeutics. Teaser: By taking advantage of the native problem-solving competencies of cells and tissues, a new kind of top-down approach to biomedicine becomes possible. Bioelectricity offers an especially tractable interface for interventions targeting the software of life for regenerative medicine applications.

The effects of glyphosate exposure on gene transcription and immune function of the silkworm, Bombyx mori

Glyphosate is a widely used herbicide and crop desiccant. However, whether its extensive use has any effect on the species diversity of nontarget organisms is still unclear. In this study, we used the silkworm, Bombyx mori, as the research subject, and performed RNA sequencing to analyze the transcriptional profile of silkworm midgut after exposure to glyphosate at 2975.20 mg/L (a concentration commonly used at mulberry fields). A total of 125 significantly differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were detected in the midgut of glyphosate-exposed silkworm (q < 0.05), of which 53 were upregulated and 72 were downregulated. Gene ontology enrichment analysis showed that the DEGs were mainly enriched in biological process, cellular component, and molecular function. Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes analysis showed that the differential genes were mainly related to oxidative stress, nutrient metabolism, and immune defense pathways, including oxidative stress-related Cat and Jafrac1, nutrient metabolism-related Fatp and Scpx, and immune-related CYP6AN2, UGT40B4, CTL11, serpin-2, and so forth. Experimental verification showed that glyphosate exposure led to a 4.35-fold increase in the mortality of silkworm after Beauveria bassiana infection, which might be caused by the decreased PO (phenoloxidase) activity and impaired immunity. These results provide evidence for the potential effects of residue glyphosate on the physiological functions of silkworm, and also provide a reference for the biosafety evaluation of glyphosate.

HC067047 Ameliorates Sepsis-associated Encephalopathy by Suppressing Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Oxidative Stress-Induced Pyroptosis in the Hippocampi of Mice

Sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE) is a common neurological complication of sepsis and is characterized by hyperneuroinflammation. NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis can induce an inflammatory cascade response and plays a key role in SAE. TRPV4 is involved in the hyperinflammatory response associated with inflammation; however, whether TRPV4 inhibition might alleviate SAE-related brain damage is still unknown. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the role and mechanism of HC067047, a potent inhibitor of TRPV4, in hyperneuroinflammation and blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction in a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced SAE mouse model. We found that HC067047 administration significantly inhibited the expression of TRPV4 and p-CamkIIα in the hippocampi of SAE mice. Furthermore, HC067047 treatment attenuated LPS-induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and oxidative stress (OS), thus remarkably preventing NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis, as well as the expression of proinflammatory factors (IL-1β and IL-18). Additionally, we found that HC067047 selectively prevented pyroptosis in hippocampal cells, mainly the neurons, oligodendrocytes and the resident microglia. The disruption of BBB integrity in SAE mice was also rescued by HC067047 intervention. Thus, we can conclude that the TRPV4 inhibitor HC067047 could protect against hippocampal cell pyroptosis, which might be due to the attenuation of the NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis pathway caused by ER stress and OS. Our findings suggest a potential preventive role for HC067047 in SAE.

Pan-Cancer Analysis of the TRP Family, Especially TRPV4 and TRPC4, and Its Expression Correlated with Prognosis, Tumor Microenvironment, and Treatment Sensitivity

BACKGROUND

Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are involved in various physiological, pathological, and tumorigenesis-related processes. However, only a few studies have comprehensively analyzed TRP family members and their association with prognosis and tumor microenvironment (TME) in various cancers. Thus, in this study, we focused on TRP channels in pan-cancer and screened two typical TRP channels, TRPV4 and TRPC4, as examples.

METHODS

Based on the latest public databases, we evaluated the expression level and prognostic value of TRP family genes in pan-cancer tissues via various bioinformatic analytical methods, and investigated the relationship between the expression of TRP family genes with TME, stemness score, immune subtype, drug sensitivity, and immunotherapy outcome in pan-cancer tissues.

RESULTS

Pan-cancer analysis revealed that the TRP family genes were differentially expressed in tumor and para-carcinoma tissues. A significant correlation existed between the expression of TRP family genes and prognosis. The expression of TRP family genes was significantly correlated with stromal, immune, RNA stemness, and DNA stemness scores in pan-cancer tissues. Our results indicated that the expression of TRP family genes correlated with the sensitivity to various drugs including PLX-4720, SB-590885, and HYPOTHEMYCIN, immunotherapy outcome, and immune-activation-related genes. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed significant differential expression of TRPV4 in bladder and para-carcinoma tissues.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study elucidated the possible role of TRP family genes in cancer progression and provided insights for further studies on TRP family genes as potential pan-cancer targets to develop diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

Hepatoprotective effect of nicorandil against acetaminophen-induced oxidative stress and hepatotoxicity in mice via modulating NO synthesis

Acetaminophen (APAP) overdose can produce hepatotoxicity and consequently liver damage. This study investigated the hepatoprotective impacts of nicorandil on hepatic damage induced by APAP. Nicorandil was administered orally (100 mg/kg) for seven days before APAP challenge (500 mg/kg, ip). Pretreatment with nicorandil reduced serum levels of aminotransferases, bilirubin, GGT and LDH, and increased serum level of albumin. Moreover, nicorandil inhibited the increase in liver MDA levels and reversed the decline in GSH content and SOD activity. Besides, it notably alleviated APAP-induced necrosis observed in histopathological findings. Additionally, nicorandil alleviated APAP-induced NO overproduction and iNOS expression; however, the protein expression of eNOS was significantly increased. Moreover, nicorandil markedly reduced hepatic TNF-α and NF-κB levels, in addition to decreasing the protein expression of MPO in hepatic tissues. Furthermore, flow cytometry (annexin V-FITC/PI) displayed a significant decline in late apoptotic and necrotic cells, and an increase in viable cells in nicorandil group. Also, nicorandil caused a significant boost in hepatic antiapoptotic marker bcl-2 level. The presented data proposed that the protective effect of nicorandil might be attributed to its antioxidant, its impact on NO homeostasis, and its anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, nicorandil may be a promising candidate for protection from liver injury induced by APAP.

Salidroside in the Treatment of NAFLD/NASH

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the commonest reason for chronic liver diseases in the world and is commonly related to the hepatic manifestation of the metabolic syndrome. Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a deteriorating form of NAFLD, which can eventually develop into fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. The reason for NAFLD/NASH development is complicated, such as liver lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, inflammatory response, apoptosis and autophagy, liver fibrosis and gut microbiota. Apart from bariatric surgery and lifestyle changes, officially approved drug therapy for NAFLD/NASH treatment is lacking. Salidroside (SDS) is a phenolic compound extensively distributed in the tubers of Rhodiola plants, which possesses many significant biological activities. This review summarized the related targets regulated by SDS in treating NAFLD/NASH. It is indicated that SDS could improve the status of NAFLD/NASH by ameliorating abnormal lipid metabolism, inhibiting oxidative stress, regulating apoptosis and autophagy, reducing inflammatory response, alleviating fibrosis and regulating gut microbiota. In conclusion, although the multiple bioactivities of SDS have been confirmed, the clinical data are inadequate and need to become the focus of attention in the later study.

The crosstalk effect between ferrous and other ions metabolism in ferroptosis for therapy of cancer

Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent cell death process characterized by excessive accumulation of reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxidation. The elucidation of ferroptosis pathways may lead to novel cancer therapies. Current evidence suggests that the mechanism of ferroptosis can be summarized as oxidative stress and antioxidant defense mechanisms. During this process, ferrous ions play a crucial role in cellular oxidation, plasma membrane damage, reactive oxygen species removal imbalance and lipid peroxidation. Although, disregulation of intracellular cations (Fe²⁺, Ca²⁺, Zn²⁺, etc.) and anions (Cl^-, etc.) have been widely reported to be involved in ferroptosis, their specific regulatory mechanisms have not been established. To further understand the crosstalk effect between ferrous and other ions in ferroptosis, we reviewed the ferroptosis process from the perspective of ions metabolism. In addition, the role of ferrous and other ions in tumor therapy is briefly summarized.

Targeting Oxidative Stress Mechanisms to Treat Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease: A Critical Review

Neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD) are becoming more frequent as the age increases. Contemporary therapies provide symptom resolution instead of targeting underlying pathological pathways. Consequently, there is considerable heterogeneity in response to treatment. Research has elucidated multiple potential of pathophysiological mechanisms contributing to neurodegenerative conditions, among which oxidative stress pathways appear to be suitable drug targets. The oxidative stress pathway has given rise to numerous novel pharmacological therapies that may provide a new avenue for neurodegenerative diseases. For example, SKQ (plastoquinone), MitoVitE, vitamin E, SOD mimic, MitoTEMPO (SOD mimetic), and bioactive molecules like curcumin and vitamin C have indeed been examined. To better understand how oxidative stress contributes to neurodegenerative diseases (such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's), we analyzed the medicinal qualities of medicines that target markers in the cellular oxidative pathways. The specific pathway by which mitochondrial dysfunction causes neurodegeneration will require more investigation. An animal study should be carried out on medications that tackle cellular redox mechanisms but are not currently licensed for use in the management of neurodegenerative conditions.

Alterations at biochemical, proteomic and transcriptomic levels in liver of tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) under chronic exposure to environmentally relevant level of glyphosate

The toxicity of glyphosate (Gly) on aquatic animals has received attention from many researchers. However, the chronic toxicity mechanism of Gly on fish has not yet been clarified entirely. Thus, this study aimed to explore the potential toxicity mechanism of Gly at 2 mg/L, a possibly existing concentration in the aquatic environment, via biochemical, transcriptomic and proteomic analyses in the liver of tilapia. Long-term Gly exposure increased lipid content, and altered redox status in liver. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that Gly exposure changed dramatically the expression of 225 genes in liver, including 94 up-regulated genes and 131 down-regulated genes. GO (Gene Ontology) and KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) enrichment analyses showed that these genes were predominantly enriched in ion transport, lipid metabolism and PPAR (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor) signaling pathway. Meanwhile, at proteomic level, long-term Gly exposure resulted in alteration of 21 proteins, which were principally related to hepatic metabolism function. In conclusion, our data displayed a potential toxicity, mainly manifested as redox imbalance and dysregulation of metabolism function, in the liver of tilapia after long-term Gly exposure at 2 mg/L. This study provided novel insight into underlying toxicity mechanism of long-term Gly exposure at an environmentally relevant concentration in fish.

Bioinspired Hydrogen Peroxide-Activated Nanochannels and Their Applications in Cancer Cell Analysis

Bioinspired nanochannels that manipulate ion transport have shown great potential for understanding complex physiological processes. Herein, inspired by the gating function of the biological ion channels, we designed and constructed artificial hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-activated nanochannels by decorating the inner pore surface with 4-(phenoxymethyl) benzeneboronic acid pinacol ester (PBAE). Benefiting from the specific hydrolysis reaction between H₂O₂ and PBAE in the confined nanochannels, the functionalized artificial nanochannels exhibited a highly selective and sensitive response toward H₂O₂. The system could switch between open/closed states in the presence/absence of H₂O₂ by the ionic current test. Meanwhile, comsol simulations were carried out to evidence the mechanism of hydrogen peroxide triggered regulation of ion transport by the nanochannels. It was found that the surface charge density of the nanochannels changed along with the addition of H₂O₂. Furthermore, based on the sensing strategy, the PBAE-functionalized nanochannel membrane was applied in the detection of H₂O₂ in the tumor microenvironment, which achieved highly selective distinguishing of cancerous cells from normal cells. This work provides a versatile method to construct bioinspired nanochannel-based platforms for detecting small reactive molecules and offers prospects for the application of disease diagnosis and prognosis.

The molecular phenotypes of injury, steatohepatitis, and fibrosis in liver transplant biopsies in the INTERLIVER study

To extend previous molecular analyses of rejection in liver transplant biopsies in the INTERLIVER study (ClinicalTrials.gov #NCT03193151), the present study aimed to define the gene expression selective for parenchymal injury, fibrosis, and steatohepatitis. We analyzed genome-wide microarray measurements from 337 liver transplant biopsies from 13 centers. We examined expression of genes previously annotated as increased in injury and fibrosis using principal component analysis (PCA). PC1 reflected parenchymal injury and related inflammation in the early posttransplant period, slowly regressing over many months. PC2 separated early injury from late fibrosis. Positive PC3 identified a distinct mildly inflamed state correlating with histologic steatohepatitis. Injury PCs correlated with liver function and histologic abnormalities. A classifier trained on histologic steatohepatitis predicted histologic steatohepatitis with cross-validated AUC = 0.83, and was associated with pathways reflecting metabolic abnormalities distinct from fibrosis. PC2 predicted histologic fibrosis (AUC = 0.80), as did a molecular fibrosis classifier (AUC = 0.74). The fibrosis classifier correlated with matrix remodeling pathways with minimal overlap with those selective for steatohepatitis, although some biopsies had both. Genome-wide assessment of liver transplant biopsies can not only detect molecular changes induced by rejection but also those correlating with parenchymal injury, steatohepatitis, and fibrosis, offering potential insights into disease mechanisms for primary diseases.

Human‑made electromagnetic fields: Ion forced‑oscillation and voltage‑gated ion channel dysfunction, oxidative stress and DNA damage (Review)

Exposure of animals/biological samples to human‑made electromagnetic fields (EMFs), especially in the extremely low frequency (ELF) band, and the microwave/radio frequency (RF) band which is always combined with ELF, may lead to DNA damage. DNA damage is connected with cell death, infertility and other pathologies, including cancer. ELF exposure from high‑voltage power lines and complex RF exposure from wireless communication antennas/devices are linked to increased cancer risk. Almost all human‑made RF EMFs include ELF components in the form of modulation, pulsing and random variability. Thus, in addition to polarization and coherence, the existence of ELFs is a common feature of almost all human‑made EMFs. The present study reviews the DNA damage and related effects induced by human‑made EMFs. The ion forced‑oscillation mechanism for irregular gating of voltage‑gated ion channels on cell membranes by polarized/coherent EMFs is extensively described. Dysfunction of ion channels disrupts intracellular ionic concentrations, which determine the cell's electrochemical balance and homeostasis. The present study shows how this can result in DNA damage through reactive oxygen species/free radical overproduction. Thus, a complete picture is provided of how human‑made EMF exposure may indeed lead to DNA damage and related pathologies, including cancer. Moreover, it is suggested that the non‑thermal biological effects attributed to RF EMFs are actually due to their ELF components.

Effect of freeze-thawing process on lipid peroxidation, miRNAs, ion channels, apoptosis and global DNA methylation in ram spermatozoa

This study was carried out to investigate the effect of the semen freeze-thawing process on the functionality and molecular structure of ram spermatozoa. The temperature of pooled and diluted semen at 38°C (group 1, control) was lowered to 5°C (group 2), and it was subjected to glycerolisation-equilibration (group 3), frozen and thawed (group 4). Compared to the control, deterioration in spermatological parameters and significant increases in lipid peroxidation and global DNA methylation levels were observed in groups 3 and 4. When compared with the control, significant downregulation in the levels of miR-485 of group 2, miR-29a of group 3 and let-7a, miR-485 and miR-29a of group 4, and significant upregulation in the levels of miR-107 of group 3 and miR-127 of groups 3 and 4 were detected. In comparison to the control, significant upregulation in the levels of CatSper1, CatSper2, CatSper3, CatSper4, ANO1 and TRPM3 of group 2, CatSper4, ANO1 and TRPM3 of group 3 and KCNJ11 of group 4, and significant downregulation in the CatSper 3 level of group 4 were determined. As a result, the semen freeze-thawing process causes motility and morphological disorders in rams. This may be due to molecular changes associated with lipid peroxidation in spermatozoa.

Oxidative Stress and NADPH Oxidase: Connecting Electromagnetic Fields, Cation Channels and Biological Effects

Electromagnetic fields (EMFs) disrupt the electrochemical balance of biological membranes, thereby causing abnormal cation movement and deterioration of the function of membrane voltage-gated ion channels. These can trigger an increase of oxidative stress (OS) and the impairment of all cellular functions, including DNA damage and subsequent carcinogenesis. In this review we focus on the main mechanisms of OS generation by EMF-sensitized NADPH oxidase (NOX), the involved OS biochemistry, and the associated key biological effects.

Scavenging of reactive oxygen species mimics the anoxic response in goldfish pyramidal neurons

Goldfish are one of a few species able to avoid cellular damage during month-long periods in severely hypoxic environments. By suppressing action potentials in excitatory glutamatergic neurons, the goldfish brain decreases its overall energy expenditure. Coincident with reductions in O2 availability is a natural decrease in cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, which has been proposed to function as part of a low-oxygen signal transduction pathway. Using live-tissue fluorescence microscopy, we found that ROS production decreased by 10% with the onset of anoxia in goldfish telencephalic brain slices. Employing whole-cell patch-clamp recording, we found that, similar to severe hypoxia, the ROS scavengers N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) and MitoTEMPO, added during normoxic periods, depolarized membrane potential (severe hypoxia -73.6 to -61.4 mV, NAC -76.6 to -66.2 mV and MitoTEMPO -71.5 mV to -62.5 mV) and increased whole-cell conductance (severe hypoxia 5.7 nS to 8.0 nS, NAC 6.0 nS to 7.5 nS and MitoTEMPO 6.0 nS to 7.6 nS). Also, in a subset of active pyramidal neurons, these treatments reduced action potential firing frequency (severe hypoxia 0.18 Hz to 0.03 Hz, NAC 0.27 Hz to 0.06 Hz and MitoTEMPO 0.35 Hz to 0.08 Hz). Neither severe hypoxia nor ROS scavenging impacted action potential threshold. The addition of exogenous hydrogen peroxide could reverse the effects of the antioxidants. Taken together, this supports a role for a reduction in [ROS] as a low-oxygen signal in goldfish brain.

Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.) Protects Hepatocytes against Alcohol-Induced Damage through Nrf2 Activation

This study aimed at evaluating the cytoprotective activity of jujube water extract (JWE) against alcohol-induced oxidative stress via the activation of the Nrf2 pathway in HepG2 cells. JWE had various phenolic compounds, and the vanillic acid content was the highest in the extract. To determine the cytoprotective effect of JWE against alcohol-induced damage, hepatocytes were treated with JWE and 3% ethanol. JWE (100 μg/mL) markedly increased cell viability by approximately 100% in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, JWE attenuated the production of malondialdehyde, reactive oxygen species, aspartate, and alanine aminotransferase and the depletion of glutathione. Moreover, JWE enhanced the expression of antioxidant defense enzymes including heme oxygenase-1, NADPH quinone oxidoreductase 1, and γ-glutamate-cysteine ligase catalytic against alcohol-induced oxidative damage in hepatocytes via the activation of Nrf2. Taken together, JWE possesses the protective effect against alcohol-induced oxidative injury in hepatocytes through the upregulation of the Nrf2 signaling pathway. Therefore, jujube fruit might have the potential to improve alcohol-related liver problems.

Biochemical aspects and therapeutic mechanisms of cannabidiol in epilepsy

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disease characterized by recurrent epileptic seizures. Studies have shown the complexity of epileptogenesis and ictogenesis, in which immunological processes and epigenetic and structural changes in neuronal tissues have been identified as triggering epilepsy. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a major active component of the Cannabis plant and the source of CBD-enriched products for the treatment of epilepsy and associated diseases. In this review, we provide an up-to-date discussion on cellular and molecular mechanisms triggered during epilepsy crises, and the phytochemical characteristics of CBD that make it an attractive candidate for controlling rare syndromes, with excellent therapeutic properties. We also discuss possible CBD anticonvulsant mechanisms and molecular targets in neurodegenerative disorders and epilepsy. Based on these arguments, we conclude that CBD presents a biotecnological potential in the anticonvulsant process, including decreasing dependence on health care in hospitals, and could make the patient's life more stable, with regard to neurological conditions.

Antispasmodic Drug Drofenine as an Inhibitor of Kv2.1 Channel Ameliorates Peripheral Neuropathy in Diabetic Mice

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a common diabetic complication and has yet no efficient medication. Here, we report that antispasmodic drug drofenine (Dfe) blocks Kv2.1 and ameliorates DPN-like pathology in diabetic mice. The underlying mechanisms are investigated against the DPN mice with in vivo Kv2.1 knockdown through adeno associated virus AAV9-Kv2.1-RNAi. Streptozotocin (STZ) induced type 1 or db/db type 2 diabetic mice with DPN exhibited a high level of Kv2.1 protein in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) tissue and a suppressed neurite outgrowth in DRG neuron. Dfe promoted neurite outgrowth by inhibiting Kv2.1 channel and/or Kv2.1 mRNA and protein expression level. Moreover, it suppressed inflammation by repressing IκBα/NF-κB signaling, inhibited apoptosis by regulating Kv2.1-mediated Bcl-2 family proteins and Caspase-3 and ameliorated mitochondrial dysfunction through Kv2.1/CaMKKβ/AMPK/PGC1α pathway. Our work supports that Kv2.1 inhibition is a promisingly therapeutic strategy for DPN and highlights the potential of Dfe in treating this disease.

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Antispasmodic drug drofenine (Dfe) ameliorates DPN-like pathology in diabetic mice

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Dfe inhibits Kv2.1 channel and/or Kv2.1 mRNA and protein expression level

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Dfe represses inflammation, apoptosis, and mitochondrial dysfunction in DPN mice

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Kv2.1 inhibition is a therapeutic tactic and Dfe shows therapeutic potential for DPN

Novel Therapeutic Approaches of Ion Channels and Transporters in Cancer

The expression and function of many ion channels and transporters in cancer cells display major differences in comparison to those from healthy cells. These differences provide the cancer cells with advantages for tumor development. Accordingly, targeting ion channels and transporters have beneficial anticancer effects including inhibition of cancer cell proliferation, migration, invasion, metastasis, tumor vascularization, and chemotherapy resistance, as well as promoting apoptosis. Some of the molecular mechanisms associating ion channels and transporters with cancer include the participation of oxidative stress, immune response, metabolic pathways, drug synergism, as well as noncanonical functions of ion channels. This diversity of mechanisms offers an exciting possibility to suggest novel and more effective therapeutic approaches to fight cancer. Here, we review and discuss most of the current knowledge suggesting novel therapeutic approaches for cancer therapy targeting ion channels and transporters. The role and regulation of ion channels and transporters in cancer provide a plethora of exceptional opportunities in drug design, as well as novel and promising therapeutic approaches that may be used for the benefit of cancer patients.

Protective Effects of Vitamin K Compounds on the Proteomic Profile of Osteoblasts under Oxidative Stress Conditions

Oxidative stress, which accompanies the pathogenesis of many bone diseases, contributes to the reduction of osteoblast activity, resulting in the inhibition of differentiation. This study aimed to assess the effect of vitamins K1 and K2 (MK4 and MK7) on the proteomic profile of human osteoblasts cell line under oxidative conditions induced by hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂). The analysis was performed using QExactiveHF mass spectrometer with a nanoelectrospray ionization source. The osteoblast protein exposed to oxidative stress and vitamin K was compared with the proteome of cells exposed only to oxidative stress. Our proteomic analysis identified 1234 proteins changed after 5 days, 967 after 15 days, and 1214 after 20 days of culture. We observed the most frequent changes in the expression of proteins with catalytic activity or protein/DNA binding properties (45% and 40%, respectively). Significant changes were also observed in proteins with transcription/translation regulator activity (2–6%), regulators of molecular functions (5–6%), signal transducers (1–4%), transporters (4–6%), and structural molecules (3–5%). Our results clearly show that vitamins K protect cells from H₂O₂-induced changes in protein expression, primarily through their effects on transcriptional regulators and transporter proteins. As a result, vitamins K can support the formation, remodeling, and mineralization of bone tissue.

TRP Channels as Emerging Therapeutic Targets for Neurodegenerative Diseases

The development of treatment for neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is facing medical challenges due to the increasingly aging population. However, some pharmaceutical companies have ceased the development of therapeutics for NDs, and no new treatments for NDs have been established during the last decade. The relationship between ND pathogenesis and risk factors has not been completely elucidated. Herein, we review the potential involvement of transient receptor potential (TRP) channels in NDs, where oxidative stress and disrupted Ca²⁺ homeostasis consequently lead to neuronal apoptosis. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) -sensitive TRP channels can be key risk factors as polymodal sensors, since progressive late onset with secondary pathological damage after initial toxic insult is one of the typical characteristics of NDs. Recent evidence indicates that the dysregulation of TRP channels is a missing link between disruption of Ca²⁺ homeostasis and neuronal loss in NDs. In this review, we discuss the latest findings regarding TRP channels to provide insights into the research and quests for alternative therapeutic candidates for NDs. As the structures of TRP channels have recently been revealed by cryo-electron microscopy, it is necessary to develop new TRP channel antagonists and reevaluate existing drugs.

A chloride channel in rat pancreatic acinar AR42J cells is sensitive to extracellular acidification and dependent on ROS

Extracellular acidification, playing a promoting role in the process of acute pancreatitis, has been reported to activate Cl^- channels in several types of cells. However, whether extracellular acidification aggravates acute pancreatitis via activating Cl^- channels remains unclear. Here, we investigated the effects of extracellular acidification on Cl^- channels in rat pancreatic acinar AR42J cells using whole-cell patch-clamp recordings. We found that extracellular acidification induced a moderately outward-rectified Cl^- current, with a selectivity sequence of I^- > Br^- ≥ Cl^- > gluconate^-, while intracellular acidification failed to induce the currents. The acid-sensitive currents were inhibited by Cl^- channel blockers, 4,4'-Diisothiocyanatostilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid disodium salt hydrate and 5-Nitro-2-(3-phenylpropylamino) benzoic acid. After ClC-3 was silenced by ClC-3 shRNA, the acid-sensitive Cl^- currents were attenuated significantly, indicating that ClC-3 plays a vital role in the induction of acid-sensitive Cl^- currents. Extracellular acid elevated the intracellular level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) significantly, prior to inducing Cl^- currents. When ROS production was scavenged, the acid-sensitive Cl^- currents were abolished. Whereas, the level of acid-induced ROS was unaffected with silence of ClC-3. Our findings above demonstrate that extracellular acidification induces a Cl^- current in pancreatic acinar cells via promoting ROS generation, implying an underlying mechanism that extracellular acidification might aggravate acute pancreatitis through Cl^- channels.

Study on the synergistic protective effect of Lycium barbarum L. polysaccharides and zinc sulfate on chronic alcoholic liver injury in rats

Both Lycium barbarum L. polysaccharides (LBP) and zinc have protective effects on liver injuries. In this paper, LBP and ZnSO4 were combined to study the effects on the prevention of alcoholic liver injury. The rats were divided into six groups, the normal group, alcohol group, zinc sulfate group, LBP group, low-dose group of ZnSO4, and high-dose group of ZnSO4 and LBP, used to explore the impact of LBP and ZnSO4 complex on liver lipid metabolism of alcohol, alcohol-metabolizing enzymes, oxidative damage, and inflammation of the liver. The experimental model was established by gavage treatment, observation, and determination of indexes of rats. The results showed that the combination of LBP and ZnSO4 could significantly decrease the levels of triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-ɑ), malondialdehyde (MDA), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and the activity of enzyme subtype 2E1 (CYP2E1). It also significantly increased the activities of total superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), glutathione peptide (GSH), and alcohol dehydrogenase, effectively improved the liver tissue lesion. What is more, the combination of LBP and ZnSO4 had a synergistic effect on the remission of alcoholic fatty liver, and alleviated chronic alcoholic liver injury by promoting lipid metabolism, inhibiting oxidative stress, controlling inflammatory responses, and regulating the expression and activity of alcohol-metabolizing enzymes in rats.

Effect of Imipramine on radiosensitivity of Prostate Cancer: An In Vitro Study

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer and leading cause of cancer death for males. Imipramine (IMI), which is a tricyclic antidepressant, has also been shown to has antineoplastic effect. This study was performed to investigate the radiosensitizing effect of IMI on DU145 prostate cancer cell. Cells were divided into 4 groups. Cell index, apoptotic activity, cell cycle arrest, oxidative stress and EAG1 channel currents were determined in all groups. Our findings showed that combined treatment with IMI and radiotherapy (RAD) did not enhance radiosensitivity of DU145 cells but as unexpected finding, treatment of IMI alone was more effective in DU145 cells.

Acetaminophen-induced liver injury is mediated by the ion channel TRPV4

Overdosing of the analgesic acetaminophen (APAP) is one of the most common causes for acute liver failure in modern countries. Although the exact molecular mechanisms mediating hepatocellular necrosis are still elusive, it is preceded by oxidative stress triggered by excessive levels of the metabolite N-acetyl-para-benzoquinone imine (NAPQI). Here, we describe the role of the redox-sensitive transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channel TRP vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) for APAP-induced hepatoxicity. Both pharmacological inhibition and genetic deletion of TRPV4 ameliorate APAP-induced necrosis in mouse and human hepatocytes in vitro. Liver injury caused by a systemic overdose of APAP is reduced in TRPV4-deficient mice and in wild-type mice treated with a TRPV4 inhibitor. The reduction of hepatotoxicity accomplished by systemic TRPV4 inhibition is comparable to the protective effects of the antioxidant N-acetyl-cysteine. Although TRPV4 does not modulate intrahepatic levels of glutathione, both its inhibition and genetic deletion attenuate APAP-induced oxidative and nitrosative stress as well as mitochondrial membrane depolarization. NAPQI evokes a calcium influx by activating heterologously expressed TRPV4 channels and endogenous TRPV4 channels in hepatoma cells but not in primary mouse hepatocytes. Taken together, our data suggest that TRPV4 mediates APAP-induced hepatotoxicity and thus may be a suitable target for treatment of this critical side effect.-Echtermeyer, F., Eberhardt, M., Risser, L., Herzog, C., Gueler, F., Khalil, M., Engel, M., Vondran, F., Leffler, A. Acetaminophen-induced liver injury is mediated by the ion channel TRPV4.

Advanced oxidation protein products play critical roles in liver diseases

There is a complex oxidant and antioxidant system that maintains the redox homoeostasis in the liver. While suffering from exogenous or endogenous risk factors, the balance between oxidants and antioxidants is disturbed and excessive reactive oxygen species are generated, resulting in oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is prevalent in various liver diseases and is thought to be involved in their pathophysiology. Advanced oxidation protein products are generated under conditions of oxidative damage and are newly described protein markers of oxidative stress. Previous studies have underscored the universal pathogenic roles of oxidation protein products in various diseases. However, investigations into how these products participate in the development of liver diseases have been superficial and insufficient. In this review, we highlight the current understanding of the roles of advanced oxidation protein products in liver disease pathogenesis and the underlying mechanisms. Moreover, we summarize the current studies on advanced oxidation protein products in infectious and noninfectious, acute and chronic liver diseases. Different strategies for targeting these advanced oxidation protein products and future perspectives, which may pave the way for developing new therapeutic strategies, will also be discussed here.

Salidroside-Mitigated Inflammatory Injury of Hepatocytes with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease via Inhibition TRPM2 Ion Channel Activation

PURPOSE

Oxidative stress plays an important role in the pathogenesis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). TRPM2 ion channel functions as a molecular sensor for oxidative stress. The aim of this study was to examine the protective effects of Salidroside, a powerful antioxidative plant, on TRPM2 in an established in vitro model of NAFLD.

METHODS

NAFLD model was established by palmitic acid (PA) in hepatic L02 cell lines and was added to the media at a final concentration of 400 μM. Cells were used as normal group, PA group and PA receiving varied concentrations of Salidroside (75μg/mL, 150μg/mL, 300μg/mL). After treating 24 hrs, MTT assay was used to detect cell viability, and ALT level was measured using an appropriate kit assay. Intracellular lipid accumulation was observed by Oil red O staining. Cytosolic Ca²⁺ concentrations were evaluated by flow cytometer with Fluo-3/AM. Quantitative RT-PCR was used to measure the mRNA expression of TRPM2, IL-1β and IL-6, and the protein expressions of TRPM2, p-CaMKII and autophagy (LC3B, p62) were determined using Western blot.

RESULTS

Treatment with Salidroside effectively restored liver injury and alleviated lipid droplet deposition in a dose-dependent manner, which was associated with inhibition of TRPM2/Ca²⁺/CaMKII pathway. Additionally, autophagic clearance was enhanced by intervention with Salidroside in a dose-dependent manner. Further investigation indicated that Salidroside down-regulated the mRNA expression of IL-1β and IL-6-pro-inflammatory cytokines.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that Salidroside could alleviate inflammatory injury and steatosis via autophagy activation mediated by downregulation of the TRPM2/Ca²⁺/CaMKII pathway. Targeting the TRPM2 ion channel is a novel treatment strategy for oxidative stress-induced liver in NAFLD.

Repression of TXNIP-NLRP3 axis restores intestinal barrier function via inhibition of myeloperoxidase activity and oxidative stress in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis

Dysfunction of the intestinal barrier function occurs in hepatic injury, but the specific mechanisms responsible are largely unknown. Recently, NOD-like receptor 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome functions in impairing endothelial barrier function. In this study, we test the hypothesis that TXNIP-NLRP3 axis repression prevents against intestinal barrier function disruption in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). First, lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced alterations in expression of ZO-1 and occludin, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, and transepithelial electric resistance (TEER) in intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) isolated from C57BL/6 wild-type (WT) and TXNIP^-/- mice were evaluated. The underlying regulatory mechanisms of TXNIP knockout in vivo were investigated with the detection of expressions of TXNIP, NLRP3 and ZO-1, and occludin, the interaction of TXNIP-NLRP3, MPO activity, ROS level, permeability of intestinal mucosa, levels of inflammatory factors in serum, and LPS concentration. We identified that TXNIP knockout promoted ZO-1 and occludin expression, yet reduced MPO activity, ROS level, and cell permeability in IECs, indicating restored the intestinal barrier function. However, LPS upregulated TXNIP and NLRP3 expression, as well as contributed to the interaction between TXNIP and NLRP3 in vitro. Furthermore, TXNIP was significantly upregulated in the intestinal mucosa of NASH mice and its knockout repaired the intestinal barrier disrupt, inhibited expression of inflammatory factors, and reduced LPS concentration as well as hepatic injury in vivo. Taken together, our findings demonstrated that inhibited the activation of the TXNIP-NLRP3 axis reduced MPO activity and oxidative stress and thus restoring the intestinal barrier function in NASH. TXNIP-NLRP3 axis may be a promising therapeutic strategy for the NASH treatment.

Tissue-specific pathways and networks underlying sexual dimorphism in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

BACKGROUND

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) encompasses benign steatosis and more severe conditions such as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), cirrhosis, and liver cancer. This chronic liver disease has a poorly understood etiology and demonstrates sexual dimorphisms. We aim to examine the molecular mechanisms underlying sexual dimorphisms in NAFLD pathogenesis through a comprehensive multi-omics study. We integrated genomics (DNA variations), transcriptomics of liver and adipose tissue, and phenotypic data of NAFLD derived from female mice of ~ 100 strains included in the hybrid mouse diversity panel (HMDP) and compared the NAFLD molecular pathways and gene networks between sexes.

RESULTS

We identified both shared and sex-specific biological processes for NAFLD. Adaptive immunity, branched chain amino acid metabolism, oxidative phosphorylation, and cell cycle/apoptosis were shared between sexes. Among the sex-specific pathways were vitamins and cofactors metabolism and ion channel transport for females, and phospholipid, lysophospholipid, and phosphatidylinositol metabolism and insulin signaling for males. Additionally, numerous lipid and insulin-related pathways and inflammatory processes in the adipose and liver tissue appeared to show more prominent association with NAFLD in male HMDP. Using data-driven network modeling, we identified plausible sex-specific and tissue-specific regulatory genes as well as those that are shared between sexes. These key regulators orchestrate the NAFLD pathways in a sex- and tissue-specific manner. Gonadectomy experiments support that sex hormones may partially underlie the sexually dimorphic genes and pathways involved in NAFLD.

CONCLUSIONS

Our multi-omics integrative study reveals sex- and tissue-specific genes, processes, and networks underlying sexual dimorphism in NAFLD and may facilitate sex-specific precision medicine.

Tracing the pH dependent activation of autophagy in cancer cells by silicon nanowire-based impedance biosensor

Monitoring the pH dependent behavior of normal and cancer cells by impedimetric biosensor based on Silicon Nanowires (SiNWs) was introduced to diagnose the invasive cancer cells. Autophagy as a biologically activated process in invasive cancer cells during acidosis, protect them from apoptosis in lower pH which presented in our work. As the autophagy is the only activated pathways which can maintain cellular proliferation in acidic media, responses of SiNW-ECIS in acidified cells could be correlated to the probability of autophagy activation in normal or cancer cells. In contrast, cell survival pathway wasn't activated in low-grade cancer cells which resulted in their acidosis. The measured electrical resistance of MCF10, MCF7, and MDA-MB468 cell lines, by SiNW sensor, in normal and acidic media were matched by the biological analyses of their vital functions. Invasive cancer cells exhibited increased electrical resistance in pH 6.5 meanwhile the two other types of the breast cells exhibited sharp (MCF10) and moderate (MCF7) decrease in their resistance. This procedure would be a new trend in microenvironment based cancer investigation.

Effect of CLIC1 gene silencing on proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis of human gallbladder cancer cells

This study aimed to explore the effects of CLIC1 gene silencing on proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis of human gallbladder cancer (GBC). GBC and normal gallbladder tissues were extracted for the detection of mRNA and protein expressions of CLIC1. GBC‐SD and NOZ cells in the logarithmic growth phase were selected to conduct the experiment. Three different siRNA recombined expression vectors were established using CLIC1 as a target at different sites. Reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) and Western blotting were, respectively, used to detect the CLIC1 mRNA and protein expressions. MTT assay was performed to detect the cell proliferation. Flow cytometry was applied to measure the cell apoptosis and cell cycle distribution. The variations of cell migration and invasion were evaluated using Transwell assay. GBC tissues showed higher CLIC1 mRNA and protein expressions than normal gallbladder tissues. The CLIC1 mRNA and protein expressions in the CLIC1 siRNA group were significantly lower than those in the NC and blank groups. Compared with the NC and blank groups, the CLIC1 siRNA group showed a significant decrease in cell proliferation but an obvious increase in apoptosis rate in GBC cells. Besides, in the CLIC1 siRNA group, cell percentage in G0/G1 and G2/M phase was gradually increased but decreased in S phases. The migration and invasion abilities in GBC cells were significantly lower than those in the NC and blank groups. Our study demonstrates that CLIC1 gene silencing could promote apoptosis and inhibit proliferation migration and invasion of GBC cells.

Cell-type-resolved alternative splicing patterns in mouse liver

Alternative splicing (AS) is an important post-transcriptional regulatory mechanism to generate transcription diversity. However, the functional roles of AS in multiple cell types from one organ have not been reported. Here, we provide the most comprehensive profile for cell-type-resolved AS patterns in mouse liver. A total of 13,637 AS events are detected, representing 81.5% of all known AS events in the database. About 46.2% of multi-exon genes undergo AS from the four cell types of mouse liver: hepatocyte, liver sinusoidal endothelial cell, Kupffer cell and hepatic stellate cell, which regulates cell-specific functions and maintains cell characteristics. We also present a cell-type-specific splicing factors network in these four cell types of mouse liver, allowing data mining and generating knowledge to elucidate the roles of splicing factors in sustaining the cell-type-specialized AS profiles and functions. The splicing switching of Tak1 gene between different cell types is firstly discovered and the specific Tak1 isoform regulates hepatic cell-type-specific functions is verified. Thus, our work constructs a hepatic cell-specific splicing landscape and reveals the considerable contribution of AS to the cell type constitution and organ features.

Identification of Non-Electrophilic Nrf2 Activators from Approved Drugs

Oxidative damage can lead to a wide range of diseases. Nrf2 is an important transcription factor that regulates many of the cytoprotective enzymes involved in the oxidative stress response. Therefore, targeting the regulation of Nrf2 activation is one logical and effective strategy to prevent or lower the risk of oxidative stress-related diseases. Until now, most research has focused on electrophilic indirect Nrf2 activators, but the risk of 'off-target' effects may be associated with these activators. To find novel small non-electrophilic modulators of Nrf2, we started from chemical agents derived from a connectivity map (cMap) and identified 22 non-electrophilic potential Nrf2-activating drugs through a drug repositioning tactic. By determining the expression changes of antioxidant genes in MCF7 cells that were treated with the potential Nrf2 activators using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction RT-PCR (real-time polymerase chain reaction) (qRT-PCR), astemizole was found to have a greater scale of upregulating antioxidant genes NQO1, HO-1, and GCLM than the positive control d,l-sulforaphane, although the testing concentration was lower than that of the control. Astemizole is a good potential redox regulator and deserves more pharmacodynamic experimentation to test and verify its feasibility for use as an Nrf2 activator.