Toll-Like Receptor (TLR)4 and MyD88 are Essential for Atheroprotection by Peritoneal B1a B Cells

Intercellular pathways of cancer treatment-related cardiotoxicity and their therapeutic implications: the paradigm of radiotherapy

Advances in cancer therapeutics have improved patient survival rates. However, cancer survivors may suffer from adverse events either at the time of therapy or later in life. Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) represent a clinically important, but mechanistically understudied complication, which interfere with the continuation of best-possible care, induce life-threatening risks, and/or lead to long-term morbidity. These concerns are exacerbated by the fact that targeted therapies and immunotherapies are frequently combined with radiotherapy, which induces durable inflammatory and immunogenic responses, thereby providing a fertile ground for the development of CVDs. Stressed and dying irradiated cells produce 'danger' signals including, but not limited to, major histocompatibility complexes, cell-adhesion molecules, proinflammatory cytokines, and damage-associated molecular patterns. These factors activate intercellular signaling pathways which have potentially detrimental effects on the heart tissue homeostasis. Herein, we present the clinical crosstalk between cancer and heart diseases, describe how it is potentiated by cancer therapies, and highlight the multifactorial nature of the underlying mechanisms. We particularly focus on radiotherapy, as a case known to often induce cardiovascular complications even decades after treatment. We provide evidence that the secretome of irradiated tumors entails factors that exert systemic, remote effects on the cardiac tissue, potentially predisposing it to CVDs. We suggest how diverse disciplines can utilize pertinent state-of-the-art methods in feasible experimental workflows, to shed light on the molecular mechanisms of radiotherapy-related cardiotoxicity at the organismal level and untangle the desirable immunogenic properties of cancer therapies from their detrimental effects on heart tissue. Results of such highly collaborative efforts hold promise to be translated to next-generation regimens that maximize tumor control, minimize cardiovascular complications, and support quality of life in cancer survivors.

The roles of B cells in cardiovascular diseases

Damage to the heart can start the repair process and cause cardiac remodeling. B cells play an important role in this process. B cells are recruited to the injured place and activate cardiac remodeling through secreting antibodies and cytokines. Different types of B cells showed specific functions in the heart. Among all types of B cells, heart-associated B cells play a vital role in the heart by secreting TGFβ1. B cells participate in the activation of fibroblasts and promote cardiac fibrosis. Four subtypes of B cells in the heart revealed the relationship between the B cells' heterogeneity and cardiac remodeling. Many cardiovascular diseases like atherosclerosis, heart failure (HF), hypertension, myocardial infarction (MI), and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) are related to B cells. The primary mechanisms of these B cell-related activities will be discussed in this review, which may also suggest potential novel therapeutic targets.

Aloe juvenna Brandham & S.Carter as α-Amylase Inhibitor and Hypoglycaemic Agent with Anti-inflammatory Properties for Diabetes Management

Despite Aloe's traditional use, Aloe juvenna Brandham & S.Carter is poorly characterized. Other Aloes are known for their antidiabetic activity. This study describes the antidiabetic potentials and phytoconstituents of the A. juvenna leaves methanolic extract (AJME). Twenty-six phytoconstituents of AJME were described using HPLC/MS-MS. Lupeol and vitexin were isolated using column chromatography. The antidiabetic activity of AJME was investigated using an in vivo high-fat diet/streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat model and in vitro α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitory activity assays. AJME demonstrated its α-amylase inhibitory activity (IC50=313±39.9 ppm) with no effect on α-glucosidase. In vivo, AJME dose-dependently improved hyperglycaemia in a high-fat diet/streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat model. Notably, the higher dose (1600 mg/kg) of AJME significantly downregulated serum interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, and matrix metalloproteinase-1 genes, suggesting its anti-inflammatory effect. These findings indicate AJME's potential as a significant antidiabetic agent through its α-amylase inhibition, hypoglycaemic, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Causal role of immune cell traits in stroke: A Mendelian randomization study

OBJECTIVES

Immune mechanisms play a crucial role in the development of stroke. However, immune-related phenotypes are diverse and their associations with stroke are largely unknown. Here, we aimed to systematically explore the causal role of immune cell traits in stroke and its subtypes by leveraging data from genome-wide association studies (GWASs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Exposure data were obtained from a recent GWAS on 731 immune cell traits profiled by flow cytometry involving 3757 individuals. By conducting two-sample univariable Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses, each immune cell trait was assessed for causal relationships with stroke outcomes from the MEGASTROKE Consortium (40,585 cases and 406,111 controls). The robustness of the MR results was verified by a series of sensitivity analyses.

RESULTS

We identified three significant associations after Bonferroni correction (P < 1.37E-05). Increased CD27 expression on memory B cell (OR = 1.23, 95% CI = 1.14-1.33, P = 2.78E-08), IgD-CD38dim B cell (OR = 1.16, 95% CI = 1.09-1.23, P = 5.98E-06) and unswitched memory B cell (OR = 1.18, 95% CI = 1.10-1.27, P = 1.09E-05) were associated with a higher risk of large-artery atherosclerotic stroke (LAS). Furthermore, expression quantitative trait loci data also indicated elevated blood CD27 mRNA level was a risk factor for LAS (OR = 1.37, 95% CI = 1.02-1.84, P = 0.037).

CONCLUSIONS

This study provided genetic evidence of the causal relationship between immune cell traits and stroke, highlighting the role of CD27 on memory B cell as a novel factor for LAS risk.

The role of immune system in atherosclerosis: Molecular mechanisms, controversies, and future possibilities

Numerous cardiovascular disorders have atherosclerosis as their pathological underpinning. Numerous studies have demonstrated that, with the aid of pattern recognition receptors, cytokines, and immunoglobulins, innate immunity, represented by monocytes/macrophages, and adaptive immunity, primarily T/B cells, play a critical role in controlling inflammation and abnormal lipid metabolism in atherosclerosis. Additionally, the finding of numerous complement components in atherosclerotic plaques suggests yet again how heavily the immune system controls atherosclerosis. Therefore, it is essential to have a thorough grasp of how the immune system contributes to atherosclerosis. The specific molecular mechanisms involved in the activation of immune cells and immune molecules in atherosclerosis, the controversy surrounding some immune cells in atherosclerosis, and the limitations of extrapolating from relevant animal models to humans were all carefully reviewed in this review from the three perspectives of innate immunity, adaptive immunity, and complement system. This could provide fresh possibilities for atherosclerosis research and treatment in the future.

Emerging mitochondrial signaling mechanisms in cardio-oncology: beyond oxidative stress

Many anticancer therapies (CTx) have cardiotoxic side effects that limit their therapeutic potential and cause long-term cardiovascular complications in cancer survivors. This has given rise to the field of cardio-oncology, which recognizes the need for basic, translational, and clinical research focused on understanding the complex signaling events that drive CTx-induced cardiovascular toxicity. Several CTx agents cause mitochondrial damage in the form of mitochondrial DNA deletions, mutations, and suppression of respiratory function and ATP production. In this review, we provide a brief overview of the cardiovascular complications of clinically used CTx agents and discuss current knowledge of local and systemic secondary signaling events that arise in response to mitochondrial stress/damage. Mitochondrial oxidative stress has long been recognized as a contributor to CTx-induced cardiotoxicity; thus, we focus on emerging roles for mitochondria in epigenetic regulation, innate immunity, and signaling via noncoding RNAs and mitochondrial hormones. Because data exploring mitochondrial secondary signaling in the context of cardio-oncology are limited, we also draw upon clinical and preclinical studies, which have examined these pathways in other relevant pathologies.

Endothelial dysfunction as a complication of anti-cancer therapy

Recent strides in anti-cancer therapeutics have improved longevity and led to a growing population of cancer survivors, who are increasingly likely to die of other causes. Treatment-induced cardiotoxicity is a complication of several therapeutic agents with acute and long-term consequences for cancer patients. Vascular endothelial dysfunction is a precursor and hallmark of ischemic coronary disease and may play a role in anti-cancer therapy-induced cardiotoxicity. This review summarizes clinical evidence for endothelial dysfunction following anti-cancer therapy and extends the discussion to include the impact of therapeutic agents on conduit arteries and the microcirculation. We highlight the role of innate immune system activation and cross-talk between inflammation and oxidative stress as pathogenic mechanisms underlying anti-cancer therapy-induced vascular toxicity. Understanding the impact of anti-cancer agents on the vascular endothelium will inform therapeutic approaches to prevent or reverse treatment-induced cardiotoxicity and may serve as an important tool to predict, monitor, and prevent adverse cardiovascular outcomes in patients undergoing treatment.

B-1b Cells Possess Unique bHLH-Driven P62-Dependent Self-Renewal and Atheroprotection

BACKGROUND

B1a and B1b lymphocytes produce IgM that inactivates oxidation-specific epitopes (IgM^OSE) on LDL (low-density lipoprotein) and protects against atherosclerosis. Loss of ID3 (inhibitor of differentiation 3) in B cells selectively promotes B1b but not B1a cell numbers, leading to higher IgM^OSE production and reduction in atherosclerotic plaque formation. Yet, the mechanism underlying this regulation remains unexplored.

METHODS

Bulk RNA sequencing was utilized to identify differentially expressed genes in B1a and B1b cells from Id3KO and Id3WT mice. CRISPR/Cas9 and lentiviral genome editing coupled with adoptive transfer were used to identify key Id3-dependent signaling pathways regulating B1b cell proliferation and the impact on atherosclerosis. Biospecimens from humans with advanced coronary artery disease imaging were analyzed to translate murine findings to human subjects with coronary artery disease.

RESULTS

Through RNA sequencing, P62 was found to be enriched in Id3KO B1b cells. Further in vitro characterization reveals a novel role for P62 in mediating BAFF (B-cell activating factor)-induced B1b cell proliferation through interacting with TRAF6 and activating NF-κB (nuclear factor kappa B), leading to subsequent C-MYC upregulation. Promoter-reporter assays reveal that Id3 inhibits the E2A protein from activating the P62 promoter. Mice adoptively transferred with B1 cells overexpressing P62 exhibited an increase in B1b cell number and IgM^OSE levels and were protected against atherosclerosis. Consistent with murine mechanistic findings, P62 expression in human B1 cells was significantly higher in subjects harboring a function-impairing SNP (rs11574) in the ID3 gene and directly correlated with plasma IgM^OSE levels.

CONCLUSIONS

This study unveils a novel role for P62 in driving BAFF-induced B1b cell proliferation and IgM^OSE production to attenuate diet-induced atherosclerosis. Results identify a direct role for Id3 in antagonizing E2A from activating the p62 promoter. Moreover, analysis of putative human B1 cells also implicates these pathways in coronary artery disease subjects, suggesting P62 as a new immunomodulatory target for treating atherosclerosis.

Decrease in the inflammatory cytokines of LPS-stimulated PBMCs of patients with atherosclerosis by a TLR-4 antagonist in the co-culture with HUVECs

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are among the players of inflammation during atherosclerosis. We assessed the effects of Eritoran, a TLR-4 antagonist, on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced cytokines production by Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMCs) of patients with high-stenosis (HS) (n = 6) and healthy controls (HCs) (n = 6) co-cultured with Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells (HUVECs). LPS stimulation significantly increased the levels of IL-6 (P = 0.007 and P = 0.005), TNF-α (P = 0.006 and P = 0.005), IL-2 (P = 0.007 and P = 0.002), IFN-γ (P = 0.006 and P = 0.003), IL-17A (P = 0.004 and P = 0.003), IL-17F (P = 0.005 and P = 0.003), IL-5 (P = 0.007 and P = 0.005), IL-13 (P = 0.006 and P = 0.005), IL-9 (P = 0.005 and P = 0.005) and IL-21 (P = 0.007 and P = 0.005) in HUVECs co-cultured with HC and HS PBMCs as compared with un-stimulated co-culture condition, respectively. Eritoran treatment (50 μg/mL and 100 μg/mL) significantly reduced the levels of LPS-induced IL-6 (P = 0.007 and P = 0.006; P = 0.007 and P = 0.007), TNF-α (P = 0.005 and P = 0.003; P = 0.007 and P = 0.005), IL-2 (P = 0.007 and P = 0.005; P = 0.005 and P = 0.004), IFN-γ (P = 0.007 and P = 0.005; P = 0.005 and P = 0.004), IL-17A (P = 0.005 and P = 0.002; P = 0.005 and P = 0.002), IL-17F (P = 0.006 and P = 0.006; P = 0.005 and P = 0.005), IL-5 (P = 0.007 and P = 0.006; P = 0.007 and P = 0.007), IL-9 (P = 0.005 and P = 0.005; P = 0.005 and P = 0.005) and IL-21 (P = 0.007 and P = 0.007; P = 0.005 and P = 0.005) in stimulated HUVECs co-cultured with HC and HS PBMCs, compared to un-treated condition, respectively. Our results demonstrate that attenuating effect of Eritoran on the inflammatory responses to LPS is higher in PBMCs of patients with high stenosis, suggesting its potential role in ameliorating inflammatory conditions in atherosclerosis.

Humoral immunity in atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction: from B cells to antibodies

Immune mechanisms are critically involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and its clinical manifestations. Associations of specific antibody levels and defined B cell subsets with cardiovascular disease activity in humans as well as mounting evidence from preclinical models demonstrate a role of B cells and humoral immunity in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. These include all aspects of B cell immunity, the generation of antigen-specific antibodies, antigen presentation and co-stimulation of T cells, as well as production of cytokines. Through their impact on adaptive and innate immune responses and the regulation of many other immune cells, B cells mediate both protective and detrimental effects in cardiovascular disease. Several antigens derived from (oxidised) lipoproteins, the vascular wall and classical autoantigens have been identified. The unique antibody responses they trigger and their relationship with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease are reviewed. In particular, we focus on the different effector functions of specific IgM, IgG, and IgE antibodies and the cellular responses they trigger and highlight potential strategies to target B cell functions for therapy.

The Emerging Role of B Lymphocytes in Cardiovascular Disease

B cells are traditionally known for their ability to produce antibodies in the context of adaptive immune responses. However, over the last decade B cells have been increasingly recognized as modulators of both adaptive and innate immune responses, as well as players in an important role in the pathogenesis of a variety of human diseases. Here, after briefly summarizing our current understanding of B cell biology, we present a systematic review of the literature from both animal models and human studies that highlight the important role that B lymphocytes play in cardiac and vascular disease. While many aspects of B cell biology in the vasculature and, to an even greater extent, in the heart remain unclear, B cells are emerging as key regulators of cardiovascular adaptation to injury.

Role of TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling in heart and liver-related complications in a rat model of type 2 diabetes mellitus

Aims

To analyze expression of members of the Toll-like receptor (TLR)4/myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MyD88)/nuclear factor (NF)-κB signaling pathway in the heart and liver in a rat model of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Our overall goal was to understand the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms.

Methods

We measured fasting blood glucose (FBG) and insulin (FINS) in a rat model of T2DM. Expression of members of the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway as well as downstream cytokines was investigated. Levels of mRNA and protein were assessed using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting, respectively. Protein content of tissue homogenates was assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays.

Results

Diabetic rats had lower body weights, higher FBG, higher FINS, and higher intraperitoneal glucose tolerance than normal rats. In addition, biochemical indicators related to heart and liver function were elevated in diabetic rats compared with normal rats. TLR4 and MyD88 were involved in the occurrence of T2DM as well as T2DM-related heart and liver complications. TLR4 caused T2DM-related heart and liver complications through activation of NF-κB.

Conclusions

TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling induces production of tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, leading to the heart- and liver-related complications of T2DM.

Functional Role of B Cells in Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is a lipid-driven inflammatory disease of blood vessels, and both innate and adaptive immune responses are involved in its development. The impact of B cells on atherosclerosis has been demonstrated in numerous studies and B cells have been found in close proximity to atherosclerotic plaques in humans and mice. B cells exert both atheroprotective and pro-atherogenic functions, which have been associated with their B cell subset attribution. While B1 cells and marginal zone B cells are considered to protect against atherosclerosis, follicular B cells and innate response activator B cells have been shown to promote atherosclerosis. In this review, we shed light on the role of B cells from a different, functional perspective and focus on the three major B cell functions: antibody production, antigen presentation/T cell interaction, and the release of cytokines. All of these functions have the potential to affect atherosclerosis by multiple ways and are dependent on the cellular milieu and the activation status of the B cell. Moreover, we discuss B cell receptor signaling and the mechanism of B cell activation under atherosclerosis-prone conditions. By summarizing current knowledge of B cells in and beyond atherosclerosis, we are pointing out open questions and enabling new perspectives.

Anti-inflammatory activities of puerarin in high-fat diet-fed rats with streptozotocin-induced gestational diabetes mellitus

To investigate the effect of puerarin on insulin resistance and inflammation in rats with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Gestational diabetic model rats were established by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (25 mg/kg) combined with high-fat feeding and were randomly assigned to three groups: the control group, the GDM group, and the puerarin-treated group. Puerarin was intragastrically administered to rats daily until the offspring were born. The rats in both the GDM group and control group were administered the same volume of normal saline. Serum total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in all groups of rats were measured. Haematoxylin and eosin staining was used to evaluate morphological changes in the liver, pancreas, and adipose tissues around the reproductive organs. Western blotting was carried out to measure the protein expression of IRS-1 and inflammatory factors, including TNF-α, TLR4, MyD88 and phosphorylated NF-κB, in the adipose tissues around the reproductive organs. Puerarin had preventive effects on GDM-induced pathological changes and ameliorated glucose and lipid metabolism disorders in GDM rats. Puerarin upregulated IRS-1 expression and decreased the protein expression of TNF-α, TLR4, and MyD88 as well as the levels of phosphorylated NF-κB in adipose tissues around the reproductive organs in GDM rats. This study indicated that puerarin exerts anti-inflammatory effects by downregulating the important TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB inflammatory signalling pathway. Therefore, puerarin can decrease the expression of TNF-α and ameliorate insulin resistance in GDM rats, suggesting the potential efficacy of puerarin in GDM treatment.

Pterostilbene reduces endothelial cell apoptosis by regulation of the Nrf2-mediated TLR-4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway in a rat model of atherosclerosis

Endothelial cell injury in vascular arterial walls plays a crucial role in the pathological process of atherosclerosis. Pterostilbene, a stilbenoid chemically related to resveratrol, has anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptosis and antioxidant properties. However, the underlying mechanisms mediated by pterostilbene in regards to endothelial cell injury in vascular arterial walls are not fully understood. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the benefits of pterostilbene in a rat model of atherosclerosis. The possible mechanism of pterostilbene was also analyzed in regards to endothelial cell injury in vascular arterial walls in vitro. A rat model of atherosclerosis was established using endothelial injury of the iliac arteries. CCK-8 assay, TUNEL, immunofluorescence, western blot analysis and hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining were used to analyze the role of pterostilbene in the pathological processes of atherosclerosis. In vivo results showed that pterostilbene decreased cholesterol (CHO), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in plasma and attenuated interleukin (IL)-1, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and IL-6 and oxidative stress injury in serum in the experimental animals. Pterostilbene treatment reduced atherogenesis, aortic plaques, macrophage infiltration and apoptosis of vascular arterial walls in the atherosclerosis rat model. In vitro assay demonstrated that pterostilbene administration increased viability of the endothelial cells, attenuated oxidative stress injury and apoptosis of endothelial cells. The results found that pterostilbene regulated endothelial cell apoptosis via the Nrf2-mediated TLR-4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway. In conclusion, data from the present study revealed that pterostilbene protects rats against atherosclerosis by regulation of the Nrf2-mediated TLR-4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway.

Beyond Macrophages and T Cells: B Cells and Immunoglobulins Determine the Fate of the Atherosclerotic Plaque

Atherosclerosis (AS) leading to myocardial infarction and stroke remains worldwide the main cause for mortality. Vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques are responsible for these life-threatening clinical endpoints. Atherosclerosis is a chronic, complex, inflammatory disease with interactions between metabolic dysfunction, dyslipidemia, disturbed microbiome, infectious triggers, vascular, and immune cells. Undoubtedly, the immune response is a most important piece of the pathological puzzle in AS. Although macrophages and T cells have been the focus of research in recent years, B cells producing antibodies and regulating T and natural killer (NKT) cell activation are more important than formerly thought. New results show that the B cells exert a prominent role with atherogenic and protective facets mediated by distinct B cell subsets and different immunoglobulin effects. These new insights come, amongst others, from observations of the effects of innovative B cell targeted therapies in autoimmune diseases like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). These diseases associate with AS, and the beneficial side effects of B cell subset depleting (modifying) therapies on atherosclerotic concomitant disease, have been observed. Moreover, the CANTOS study (NCT01327846) showed impressive results of immune-mediated inflammation as a new promising target of action for the fight against atherosclerotic endpoints. This review will reflect the putative role of B cells in AS in an attempt to connect observations from animal models with the small spectrum of the thus far available human data. We will also discuss the clinical therapeutic potency of B cell modulations on the process of AS.

Hepatitis B virus-induced hyperactivation of B cells in chronic hepatitis B patients via TLR4

B cell hyperactivation and functional impairment were identified from patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (CHB) infection; however, the underlying mechanism remains unknown. Here, we aim to elucidate the mechanisms responsible for B cell hyperactivation during HBV infection. Peripheral CD19⁺ B cells isolated from 4 CHB patients and 4 healthy volunteers were analysed by RNA sequencing. A total of 1401 differentially expressed genes were identified from B cell transcriptome of CHB patients vs healthy volunteers. We found that B cells from CHB patients were functional impaired, with increased TLR4 expression, activated NF‐κB pathway and altered mitochondrial function. The expression of B cell activation‐related genes, including TLR4, was further validated using additional clinical samples. To further verify the role of TLR4 in B cell activation during CHB, B cell phenotypes were determined in wild‐type (WT) and TLR4^−/− HBV‐carrier mice. Hyperactivated B cell and TLR4 signalling pathway were observed in WT HBV‐carrier mice, while TLR4 ablation failed to induce B cell hyperactivation, and downstream MyD88 and NF‐κB were also not altered. Taken together, TLR4 pathway plays a pivotal role in B cell hyperactivation during CHB, which might serve as a promising target for B cell function restoration.

Immunobiology of Atherosclerosis: A Complex Net of Interactions

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of mortality worldwide, and atherosclerosis the principal factor underlying cardiovascular events. Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by endothelial dysfunction, intimal lipid deposition, smooth muscle cell proliferation, cell apoptosis and necrosis, and local and systemic inflammation, involving key contributions to from innate and adaptive immunity. The balance between proatherogenic inflammatory and atheroprotective anti-inflammatory responses is modulated by a complex network of interactions among vascular components and immune cells, including monocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells, and T, B, and foam cells; these interactions modulate the further progression and stability of the atherosclerotic lesion. In this review, we take a global perspective on existing knowledge about the pathogenesis of immune responses in the atherosclerotic microenvironment and the interplay between the major innate and adaptive immune factors in atherosclerosis. Studies such as this are the basis for the development of new therapies against atherosclerosis.

Transcriptome profile in bursa of Fabricius reveals potential mode for stress-influenced immune function in chicken stress model

BACKGROUND

The molecular mechanisms underlying stress-influenced immune function of chicken (Gallus Gallus) are not clear. The stress models can be established effectively by feeding chickens corticosterone (CORT) hormone. The bursa of Fabricius is a unique central immune organ of birds. RNA-Seq technology was used to investigate differences in the expression profiles of immune-related genes and associated pathways in the bursa of Fabricius to clarify molecular mechanisms. The aim of this study was to broaden the understanding of the stress-influenced immune function in chickens.

RESULTS

Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the bursa of Fabricius between experimental group (basal diet with added CORT 30 mg/kg; C_B group) and control group (basal diet; B_B group) were identified by using RNA-seq technology. In total, we found 1434 significant DEGs (SDEGs), which included 199 upregulated and 1235 downregulated genes in the C_B group compared with the B_B group. The immune system process GO term was the top significantly GO term, including MYD88, TLR4, IL15, VEGFA gene and so on. The cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction pathway and the Toll-like receptor signaling pathway were the key pathways affected by stress. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis of the SDEGs showed that VEGFA, MyD88 and IL15 were hub genes and module analysis showed that MYD88, TLR4 and VEGFA play important roles in response to stress.

CONCLUSION

This study showed that the VEGFA and ILs (such as IL15) via the cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction pathway, MYD88 and TLR4 via the Toll-like receptor signaling pathway may play important roles in the regulation of immune function under stress condition with CORT administration. The results of this study provide a reference for further studies of the molecular mechanisms of stress-influenced immune function.

DFMG reverses proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells induced by co-culture with injured vascular endothelial cells via suppression of the TLR4-mediated signaling pathway

7-Difluoromethoxy-5,4′-dimethoxy-genistein (DFMG) is a novel chemical compound synthesized using genistein. Previous studies have indicated that DFMG can reverse the apoptosis of vascular endothelial cells (VECs) by regulating the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway. The present study aimed to investigate the activity and molecular mechanism underlying DFMG-mediated protection of vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMCs) using a non-contact co-culture model established by using Transwell insert. Secretion of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were measured by ELISA. Proliferation and migration of VSMCs were assessed using a Cell Counting kit-8 and wound healing assays, respectively. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) mRNA and protein levels were detected by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting analyses, respectively. In the present study, lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) significantly increased the secretion of IL-6 and TNF-α in VECs. VECs treated with LPC markedly increased proliferation and migration of VSMCs, which were inhibited by DFMG. Transfection of either TLR4 short hairpin RNA (shRNA) or TLR4 cDNA in VECs inhibited and increased proliferation and migration of VSMCs, respectively. Furthermore, transfection of VECs with TLR4 shRNA suppressed the proliferation and migration of VSMCs induced by co-culture with injured VECs, which was further enhanced by treatment with DFMG. By contrast, transfection of VECs with TLR4 cDNA enhanced proliferation and migration of VSMCs and this effect was inhibited by treatment with DFMG. Taken together, the results of the present study demonstrated that DFMG can reverse proliferation and migration of VSMCs induced by co-culture with injured VECs via suppression of the TLR4-mediated signaling pathway.

Plan B (-cell) in atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is a leading cause of death worldwide. It is a complex chronic inflammatory disease involving interactions between vascular, circulating and immune cells. B cells play an important role in chronic inflammation producing antibodies and regulating T and natural killer (NKT) cell activation. The role of B cells in atherosclerosis is complex, with atherogenic and protective roles assigned for distinct B cell subsets. Drugs that deplete B cells or modulate their functions are now used in the treatment of various autoimmune diseases in humans. Here, we briefly review the roles of B cell subsets in atherogenesis, and emphasize the potential impact of B cell targeted therapies on the cardiovascular risk of treated patients. Developing more B cell subset-specific therapies would lead to more effective treatments with enhanced safety profile.

Out of the frying pan and into the fire: damage-associated molecular patterns and cardiovascular toxicity following cancer therapy

Cardio-oncology is a new and rapidly expanding field that merges cancer and cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular disease is an omnipresent side effect of cancer therapy; in fact, it is the second leading cause of death in cancer survivors after recurrent cancer. It has been well documented that many cancer chemotherapeutic agents cause cardiovascular toxicity. Nonetheless, the underlying cause of cancer therapy-induced cardiovascular toxicity is largely unknown. In this review, we discuss the potential role of damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) as an underlying contributor to cancer therapy-induced cardiovascular toxicity. With an increasing number of cancer patients, as well as extended life expectancy, understanding the mechanisms underlying cancer therapy-induced cardiovascular disease is of the utmost importance to ensure that cancer is the only disease burden that cancer survivors have to endure.

B cells and atherosclerosis

B cells have emerged as important immune cells in cardiovascular disease. Initial studies have suggested that B cells protect against atherosclerosis development. However, subsequent studies demonstrating aggravation of atherosclerosis by B-2 cells have shed light on the subset-dependent effects of B cells. Here, we review the literature that has led to our current understanding of B cell regulation of atherosclerosis, touching on the importance of subsets, local regulation, human translation, and therapeutic potential.