Role of platelet-derived growth factor in type II diabetes mellitus and its complications

Elucidating molecular mechanism and chemical space of chalcones through biological networks and machine learning approaches

We developed a bio-cheminformatics method, exploring disease inhibition mechanisms using machine learning-enhanced quantitative structure-activity relationship (ML-QSAR) models and knowledge-driven neural networks. ML-QSAR models were developed using molecular fingerprint descriptors and the Random Forest algorithm to explore the chemical spaces of Chalcones inhibitors against diverse disease properties, including antifungal, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antimicrobial, and antiviral effects. We generated and validated robust machine learning-based bioactivity prediction models (https://github.com/RatulChemoinformatics/QSAR) for the top genes. These models underwent ROC and applicability domain analysis, followed by molecular docking studies to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of the molecules. Through comprehensive neural network analysis, crucial genes such as AKT1, HSP90AA1, SRC, and STAT3 were identified. The PubChem fingerprint-based model revealed key descriptors: PubchemFP521 for AKT1, PubchemFP180 for SRC, PubchemFP633 for HSP90AA1, and PubchemFP145 and PubchemFP338 for STAT3, consistently contributing to bioactivity across targets. Notably, chalcone derivatives demonstrated significant bioactivity against target genes, with compound RA1 displaying a predictive pIC50 value of 5.76 against HSP90AA1 and strong binding affinities across other targets. Compounds RA5 to RA7 also exhibited high binding affinity scores comparable to or exceeding existing drugs. These findings emphasize the importance of knowledge-based neural network-based research for developing effective drugs against diverse disease properties. These interactions warrant further in vitro and in vivo investigations to elucidate their potential in rational drug design. The presented models provide valuable insights for inhibitor design and hold promise for drug development. Future research will prioritize investigating these molecules for mycobacterium tuberculosis, enhancing the comprehension of effectiveness in addressing infectious diseases.

Shared genetic architecture between periodontal disease and type 2 diabetes: a large scale genome-wide cross-trait analysis

PURPOSE

To investigate the relationship between abnormal glucose metabolism, type 2 diabetes (T2D), and periodontal disease (PER) independent of Body Mass Index (BMI), we employed a genome-wide cross-trait approach to clarify the association.

METHODS

Our study utilized the most extensive genome-wide association studies conducted for populations of European ancestry, including PER, T2D, fasting glucose, fasting insulin, 2-hour glucose after an oral glucose challenge, HOMA-β, HOMA-IR (unadjusted or adjusted for BMI) and HbA1c.

RESULTS

With this approach, we were able to identify pleiotropic loci, establish expression-trait associations, and quantify global and local genetic correlations. There was a significant positive global genetic correlation between T2D (rg = 0.261, p = 2.65 × 10-13), HbA1c (rg = 0.182, p = 4.14 × 10-6) and PER, as well as for T2D independent of BMI (rg = 0.158, p = 2.34 × 10-6). A significant local genetic correlation was also observed between PER and glycemic traits or T2D. We also identified 62 independent pleiotropic loci that impact both PER and glycemic traits, including T2D. Nine significant pathways were identified between the shared genes between T2D, glycemic traits and PER. Genetically liability of HOMA-βadjBMI was causally associated with the risk of PER.

CONCLUSION

Our research has revealed a genetic link between T2D, glycemic traits, and PER that is influenced by biological pleiotropy. Notably, some of these links are not related to BMI. Our research highlights an underlying link between patients with T2D and PER, regardless of their BMI.

Associations between multiple neurological biomarkers and distal sensorimotor polyneuropathy: KORA F4/FF4 study

AIMS

The aim of this study was to assess associations between neurological biomarkers and distal sensorimotor polyneuropathy (DSPN).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Cross-sectional analyses were based on 1032 participants aged 61-82 years from the population-based KORA F4 survey, 177 of whom had DSPN at baseline. The prevalence of type 2 diabetes was 20%. Prospective analyses used data from 505 participants without DSPN at baseline, of whom 125 had developed DSPN until the KORA FF4 survey. DSPN was defined based on the examination part of the Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument. Serum levels of neurological biomarkers were measured using proximity extension assay technology. Associations between 88 biomarkers and prevalent or incident DSPN were estimated using Poisson regression with robust error variance and are expressed as risk ratios (RR) and 95% CI per 1-SD increase. Results were adjusted for multiple confounders and multiple testing using the Benjamini-Hochberg procedure.

RESULTS

Higher serum levels of CTSC (cathepsin C; RR [95% CI] 1.23 (1.08; 1.39), pB-H = 0.044) and PDGFRα (platelet-derived growth factor receptor A; RR [95% CI] 1.21 (1.08; 1.35), pB-H = 0.044) were associated with prevalent DSPN in the total study sample. CDH3, JAM-B, LAYN, RGMA and SCARA5 were positively associated with DSPN in the diabetes subgroup, whereas GCP5 was positively associated with DSPN in people without diabetes (all pB-H for interaction <0.05). None of the biomarkers showed an association with incident DSPN (all pB-H>0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

This study identified multiple novel associations between neurological biomarkers and prevalent DSPN, which may be attributable to functions of these proteins in neuroinflammation, neural development and myelination.

Recent Advances in Biomolecular Patho-Mechanistic Pathways behind the Development and Progression of Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetic neuropathy (DN) is a neurodegenerative disorder that is primarily characterized by distal sensory loss, reduced mobility, and foot ulcers that may potentially lead to amputation. The multifaceted etiology of DN is linked to a range of inflammatory, vascular, metabolic, and other neurodegenerative factors. Chronic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and oxidative stress are the three basic biological changes that contribute to the development of DN. Although our understanding of the intricacies of DN has advanced significantly over the past decade, the distinctive mechanisms underlying the condition are still poorly understood, which may be the reason behind the lack of an effective treatment and cure for DN. The present study delivers a comprehensive understanding and highlights the potential role of the several pathways and molecular mechanisms underlying the etiopathogenesis of DN. Moreover, Schwann cells and satellite glial cells, as integral factors in the pathogenesis of DN, have been enlightened. This work will motivate allied research disciplines to gain a better understanding and analysis of the current state of the biomolecular mechanisms behind the pathogenesis of DN, which will be essential to effectively address every facet of DN, from prevention to treatment.

Cell and molecular targeted therapies for diabetic retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) stands as a prevalent complication in the eye resulting from diabetes mellitus, predominantly associated with high blood sugar levels and hypertension as individuals age. DR is a severe microvascular complication of both type I and type II diabetes mellitus and the leading cause of vision impairment. The critical approach to combatting and halting the advancement of DR lies in effectively managing blood glucose and blood pressure levels in diabetic patients; however, this is seldom achieved. Both human and animal studies have revealed the intricate nature of this condition involving various cell types and molecules. Aside from photocoagulation, the sole therapy targeting VEGF molecules in the retina to prevent abnormal blood vessel growth is intravitreal anti-VEGF therapy. However, a substantial portion of cases, approximately 30-40%, do not respond to this treatment. This review explores distinctive pathophysiological phenomena of DR and identifiable cell types and molecules that could be targeted to mitigate the chronic changes occurring in the retina due to diabetes mellitus. Addressing the significant research gap in this domain is imperative to broaden the treatment options available for managing DR effectively.

Novel therapeutic activities of dragon blood from palm tree Daemonorops draco for the treatment of chronic diabetic wounds

BACKGROUND

The clinical efficacy of Jinchuang Ointment, a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), in treating chronic non-healing diabetic wounds has been demonstrated over the past decades. Both in vitro and in vivo angiogenic activities have been reported for its herbal ingredients, including dragon blood from the palm tree Daemonorops draco and catechu from Uncaria gambir Roxb. Additionally, crude extracts of dragon blood have exhibited hypoglycemic effects not only in animal studies but also in cell-based in vitro assays.

RESULTS

Our findings indicate that crude dragon blood extract promotes the differentiation of myoblasts into myotubes. Partially purified fractions of dragon blood crude extract significantly enhance the expression of muscle cell differentiation-related genes such as myoG, myoD, and myoHC. Our results also demonstrate that crude extracts of dragon blood can inhibit platelet-derived growth factor-induced PAI-1 expression in primary rat vascular smooth muscle cells, thereby favoring changes in hemostasis towards fibrinolysis. Consistent with previous reports, reduced expression of plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1) accelerates wound healing. However, further separation resulted in a significant loss of both activities, indicating the involvement of more than one compound in these processes. Stem cells play a crucial role in muscle injury repair. Neither dragon blood nor catechu alone stimulated the proliferation of human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT)-immortalized and umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells. Interestingly, the proliferation of both types of stem cells was observed when crude extracts of dragon blood and catechu were present together in the stem cell growth medium.

CONCLUSIONS

Dragon blood from D. draco offers multifaceted therapeutic benefits for treating chronic nonhealing diabetic wounds from various perspectives. Most drugs in Western medicine consist of small molecules with defined ingredients. However, this is not the case in TCM, as the activities of dragon blood reported in this study. Surprisingly, the activities documented here align with descriptions in ancient Chinese medical texts dating back to A.D. 1625.

Diabetes and further risk of cancer: a nationwide population-based study

BACKGROUND

Individuals with diabetes have a significantly higher risk of developing various forms of cancer, and the potential biological links between these two diseases are not completely understood.

METHODS

This was a longitudinal retrospective nationwide cohort study, a study design that allows us to examine the natural course of cancer development over an extended period of time with a large sample size. Initially, 3,111,975 and 22,208,395 eligible patients aged ≥ 20 years with and without diabetes, respectively, were matched by age, sex, and the Charlson comorbidity index. Ultimately, 1,751,457 patients were selected from each group. Stratified populations for diabetic retinopathy (DR) (n = 380,822) and without DR (n = 380,822) as well as proliferative DR (PDR) (n = 141,150) and non-proliferative DR (NPDR) (n = 141,150) were analyzed in this study. The main outcome measure was the first-time diagnosis of cancer during the follow-up period.

RESULTS

We observed a 20% higher risk of total cancer incidence [hazard ratios (HR), 1.20; p < 0.001] in the diabetes cohort compared to the non-diabetes cohort. The highest HR was observed for liver and pancreas cancers. Moderately increased risks were observed for oral, colon, gallbladder, reproductive (female), kidney, and brain cancer. Furthermore, there was a borderline significantly increased risk of stomach, skin, soft tissue, female breast, and urinary tract (except kidney) cancers and lymphatic and hematopoietic malignancies. The stratified analysis revealed that the total cancer incidence was significantly higher in the DR cohort compared to the non-DR cohort (HR, 1.31; p < 0.001), and there was a borderline increased risk in the PDR cohort compared to the NPDR cohort (HR, 1.13; p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides large-scale, nationwide, population-based evidence that diabetes is independently associated with an increased risk of subsequent development of total cancer and cancer at specific sites. Notably, this risk may further increase when DR develops.

Effect of Diabetes on Wound Healing: A Bibliometrics and Visual Analysis

Objective

The quality of life of diabetic patients is seriously affected by wound healing difficulty, which can lead to increased infection, skin deep tissue injury and continuous pain. By analyzing the research trends and hot spots in this field, the visualization analysis map is constructed.

Methods

The contents of the selected articles were sorted out and analyzed by bibliometrics. We use CiteSpace, Vosviewer and HistCite to visualize literature information, including national publication statistics, institutions, authors, journal partnerships, and citations of published articles.

Results

Among the 2942 articles, the United States and China ranked first in both article circulation and TGCS, and many countries also cooperated. The collaboration between schools and research institutions is a core part of dissertation research institution collaboration, with most authors coming from the same institution. Most of the literature studies on the mechanisms and methods of promoting diabetic wound healing. Improving cell function or making innovative attempts in local treatment are the fruits of researchers' efforts to promote diabetic wound healing in recent years.

Conclusion

Through the metrology method, the time distribution, author institution, cooperation network, research status, research hotspot and development trend of the literature on the influence of diabetes on wound healing were intuitively displayed, which provided a reference for further research and development direction.

Comorbidity Genes of Alzheimer's Disease and Type 2 Diabetes Associated with Memory and Cognitive Function

Alzheimer's disease (AD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are comorbidities that result from the sharing of common genes. The molecular background of comorbidities can provide clues for the development of treatment and management strategies. Here, the common genes involved in the development of the two diseases and in memory and cognitive function are reviewed. Network clustering based on protein-protein interaction network identified tightly connected gene clusters that have an impact on memory and cognition among the comorbidity genes of AD and T2DM. Genes with functional implications were intensively reviewed and relevant evidence summarized. Gene information will be useful in the discovery of biomarkers and the identification of tentative therapeutic targets for AD and T2DM.

Overexpression of SENP3 promotes PPAR-γ transcription through the increase of HIF-1α stability via SUMO2/3 and participates in molecular mechanisms of osteoporosis

Patients with type II diabetes are exposed to a high risk of osteoporosis. The present study sought to exploit the detailed mechanisms of the SENP3/HIF-1α/PPAR-γ axis in osteoporosis. A rat model of type II diabetic osteoporosis was established, followed by the isolation of bone marrow mononuclear macrophages (BMMs). Gain- and loss-of-function assays were conducted in rat models and BMMs from rat models, followed by the evaluation of SENP3, HIF-1α, and PPAR-γ expression and detection of osteoclast differentiation-related indexes. Next, the SUMOylated modification of HIF-1α and the regulation of SENP3 on SUMOylated modification level of HIF-1α were assessed using immunoprecipitation, and the binding of HIF-1α to the PPARγ promoter was identified with ChIP and dual-luciferase reporter assays. SENP3 and HIF-1α expression was down-regulated in tissues of type II diabetes-induced osteoporotic rats and BMMs, with high SUMOylated modification levels of HIF-1α. Mechanically, HIF-1α was modified by SUMO2/3. SENP3 suppressed SUMOylated modification of HIF-1α and enhanced HIF-1α stability. HIF-1α bound to the PPAR-γ promoter and facilitated PPAR-γ transcription. SENP3 overexpression restrained osteoblast differentiation in type II diabetes-induced osteoporotic rats and BMMs from rat models. SENP3 knockdown facilitated osteoclast differentiation in type II diabetes-induced osteoporotic rats and BMMs from rat models, which was neutralized by further HIF-1α overexpression. To sum up, SENP3 overexpression restrained osteoclast differentiation in type II diabetic osteoporosis by increasing HIF-1α stability and expression and thus promoting PPAR-γ expression via de-SUMOylation, which might expand the understanding of the mechanisms of type II diabetes combined with osteoporosis.

Single-cell RNA-seq uncovers novel metabolic functions of Schwann cells beyond myelination

Schwann cells (SCs) support peripheral nerves under homeostatic conditions, independent of myelination, and contribute to damage in prediabetic peripheral neuropathy (PN). Here, we used single-cell RNA sequencing to characterize the transcriptional profiles and intercellular communication of SCs in the nerve microenvironment using the high-fat diet-fed mouse, which mimics human prediabetes and neuropathy. We identified four major SC clusters, myelinating, nonmyelinating, immature, and repair in healthy and neuropathic nerves, in addition to a distinct cluster of nerve macrophages. Myelinating SCs acquired a unique transcriptional profile, beyond myelination, in response to metabolic stress. Mapping SC intercellular communication identified a shift in communication, centered on immune response and trophic support pathways, which primarily impacted nonmyelinating SCs. Validation analyses revealed that neuropathic SCs become pro-inflammatory and insulin resistant under prediabetic conditions. Overall, our study offers a unique resource for interrogating SC function, communication, and signaling in nerve pathophysiology to help inform SC-specific therapies.

Methylglyoxal Impairs the Pro-Angiogenic Ability of Mouse Adipose-Derived Stem Cells (mADSCs) via a Senescence-Associated Mechanism

Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) play a crucial role in angiogenesis and repair of damaged tissues. However, in pathological conditions including diabetes, ADSC function is compromised. This work aims at evaluating the effect of Methylglyoxal (MGO), a product of chronic hyperglycemia, on mouse ADSCs' (mADSCs) pro-angiogenic function and the molecular mediators involved. The mADSCs were isolated from C57bl6 mice. MGO-adducts and p-p38 MAPK protein levels were evaluated by Western Blot. Human retinal endothelial cell (hREC) migration was analyzed by transwell assays. Gene expression was measured by qRT-PCR, and SA-βGal activity by cytofluorimetry. Soluble factor release was evaluated by multiplex assay. MGO treatment does not impair mADSC viability and induces MGO-adduct accumulation. hREC migration is reduced in response to both MGO-treated mADSCs and conditioned media from MGO-treated mADSCs, compared to untreated cells. This is associated with an increase of SA-βGal activity, SASP factor release and p53 and p21 expression, together with a VEGF- and PDGF-reduced release from MGO-treated mADSCs and a reduced p38-MAPK activation in hRECs. The MGO-induced impairment of mADSC function is reverted by senolytics. In conclusion, MGO impairs mADSCs' pro-angiogenic function through the induction of a senescent phenotype, associated with the reduced secretion of growth factors crucial for hREC migration.

Future treatment of Diabetes - Tyrosine Kinase inhibitors

Background

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a group of metabolic disorders that have an increased risk of macro and micro-vascular complications due to lipid dysfunction. The present drug treatments for the management of DM either have numerous side effects or do not have long-lasting therapeutic effects. So it is essential to find a newer class of drug for DM treatment.

Method

Broad information has been researched regarding Tyrosine kinase Inhibitors (TKIs) and their mechanism of action. They are proven for the management of various kinds of cancers. TKIs produce anti-hyperglycemic effects by acting on multiple targets such as c-Abl, Platelet-Derived Growth Factor Receptor (PDGFR), Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor (VEGFR), Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR), and c-Kit.

Result

This family of drugs blocks numerous tyrosine kinases by acting as a partial agonist of PPAR-γ receptors and results in an anti-diabetic effect by improving insulin sensitivity and glucose disposal rate.

Conclusion

Therefore, it is said that TKI drugs will be great potential for the treatment of Diabetes. This review summarizes the possible targets of TKIs and TKIs being a potential drug class in the management of Diabetes mellitus.

Impact of Acute High Glucose on Mitochondrial Function in a Model of Endothelial Cells: Role of PDGF-C

An increase in plasma high glucose promotes endothelial dysfunction mainly through increasing mitochondrial ROS production. High glucose ROS-induced has been implicated in the fragmentation of the mitochondrial network, mainly by an unbalance expression of mitochondrial fusion and fission proteins. Mitochondrial dynamics alterations affect cellular bioenergetics. Here, we assessed the effect of PDGF-C on mitochondrial dynamics and glycolytic and mitochondrial metabolism in a model of endothelial dysfunction induced by high glucose. High glucose induced a fragmented mitochondrial phenotype associated with the reduced expression of OPA1 protein, high DRP1^pSer616 levels and reduced basal respiration, maximal respiration, spare respiratory capacity, non-mitochondrial oxygen consumption and ATP production, regarding normal glucose. In these conditions, PDGF-C significantly increased the expression of OPA1 fusion protein, diminished DRP1^pSer616 levels and restored the mitochondrial network. On mitochondrial function, PDGF-C increased the non-mitochondrial oxygen consumption diminished by high glucose conditions. These results suggest that PDGF-C modulates the damage induced by HG on the mitochondrial network and morphology of human aortic endothelial cells; additionally, it compensates for the alteration in the energetic phenotype induced by HG.

Impact of atorvastatin on plasma and cardiac biomarkers of inflammation, oxidative stress, and fibrosis in a rat model of streptozotocin-induced diabetes

Oxidative stress and fibrosis foster the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in diabetes. Atorvastatin protects against cardiovascular diseases in diabetes patients. However, the mechanisms are not completely known. This study evaluated the impact of atorvastatin on vascular and myocardial oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis in a model of diabetes. Male Wistar rats were assigned into four groups; control rats, atorvastatin-treated rats (Ator, 40 mg/kg given by oral gavage for 6 weeks), diabetes rats (DM, single IP 40 mg/kg streptozotocin), and diabetes rats treated with atorvastatin (DM + Ator). Serum and cardiac inflammatory, oxidant, and fibrotic markers were measured. Cardiac fibrosis was evaluated by Masson trichrome stain. Streptozotocin-induced diabetes as documented by the marked elevation in blood glucose. Levels of oxidant biomarkers of serum and cardiac nitrite, cardiac nitrate, and cardiac thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) were increased in the DM group. The use of atorvastatin reduced nitrite and TBARS levels. Serum and cardiac inflammatory factors of endothelin-1 (ET-1) were elevated in the DM group, and the use of atorvastatin reduced these increases. Cardiac C-reactive protein tended to increase in the DM group and the use of atorvastatin reduced its level. Cardiac interstitial fibrosis was increased in the DM group with a parallel increase in the platelet-derived growth factor level. The use of atorvastatin reduced cardiac fibrosis. Diabetes was associated with an increase in serum and/or myocardial markers of oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis. The use of atorvastatin reduced cardiac interstitial fibrosis and decreased cardiac oxidant and inflammatory biomarkers.

Hyperglycemic conditions induce rapid cell dysfunction-promoting transcriptional alterations in human aortic endothelial cells

Hyperglycemia is a major risk factor in the development of diabetic complications and promotes vascular complications through dysregulation of endothelial cell function. Various mechanisms have been proposed for endothelial cell dysregulation but the early transcriptomic alterations of endothelial cells under hyperglycemic conditions are not well documented. Here we use deep time-series RNA-seq profiling of human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs) following exposure to normal (NG) and high glucose (HG) conditions over a time course from baseline to 24 h to identify the early and transient transcriptomic changes, alteration of molecular networks, and their temporal dynamics. The analysis revealed that the most significant pathway activation/inhibition events take place in the 1- to 4-h transition and identified distinct clusters of genes that underlie a cascade of coordinated transcriptional events unique to HG conditions. Temporal co-expression and causal network analysis implicate the activation of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and growth factor signalling pathways including STAT3 and NF-κB. These results document HAEC transcriptional changes induced by hyperglycemic conditions and provide basic insight into the rapid molecular alterations that promote endothelial cell dysfunction.

Endothelium dysfunction in hind limb arteries of male Zucker Diabetic-Sprague Dawley rats

Endothelium dysfunction produces peripheral vascular disease comorbidities in type 2 diabetes, including hypertension, and critical limb ischemia. In this study we aimed to test endothelial dysfunction, the vasodilator effects of a proteinase-activated receptor 2 (PAR2) agonist (2fLIGRLO), and thromboxane A₂ synthase inhibitor (ozagrel) on PAR2 vasodilation in hind limb arteries ex vivo, using Zucker Diabetic-Sprague Dawley (ZDSD) rats, a model of type 2 diabetes. Male Sprague Dawley rats (SD) and ZDSD were fed a high-fat content 'Western diet' from 16 to 20 weeks of age (wks) then fed a standard laboratory diet. We identified diabetic ZDSD rats by two consecutive blood glucose measurements > 12.5 mM, based on weekly monitoring. We used acetylcholine, 2fLIGRLO, and nitroprusside with wire-myograph methods to compare relaxations of femoral, and saphenous arteries from diabetic ZDSD (21-23 wks) to age-matched normoglycemic SD. All arteries showed evidence of endothelium dysfunction using acetylcholine (reduced maximum relaxations, reduced sensitivity), and higher sensitivities to 2fLIGRLO, and nitroprusside in ZDSD vs SD. Ozagrel treatment of ZDSD distal segments, and end-branches of saphenous arteries decreased their sensitivities to 2fLIGRLO. We tested aortas for altered expression of endothelium-specific gene targets using PCR array and qPCR. PAR2, and placental growth factor gene transcripts were 1.5, and 4-times higher in ZDSD than SD aortas. Hind limb arteries of ZDSD exhibit endothelium dysfunction having less GPCR agonist induced vasodilation by endothelial NO-release. Different expression of several endothelial genes in ZDSD vs SD aortas, including PAR2, suggests altered inflammatory, and angiogenesis signaling pathways in the endothelium of ZDSD.

Endothelium-Derived Relaxing Factors and Endothelial Function: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

The endothelium plays a pivotal role in homeostatic mechanisms. It specifically modulates vascular tone by releasing vasodilatory mediators, which act on the vascular smooth muscle. Large amounts of work have been dedicated towards identifying mediators of vasodilation and vasoconstriction alongside the deleterious effects of reactive oxygen species on the endothelium. We conducted a systematic review to study the role of the factors released by the endothelium and the effects on the vessels alongside its role in atherosclerosis.

METHODS

A search was conducted with appropriate search terms. Specific attention was offered to the effects of emerging modulators of endothelial functions focusing the analysis on studies that investigated the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS), perivascular adipose tissue, shear stress, AMP-activated protein kinase, potassium channels, bone morphogenic protein 4, and P2Y2 receptor.

RESULTS

530 citations were reviewed, with 35 studies included in the final systematic review. The endpoints were evaluated in these studies which offered an extensive discussion on emerging modulators of endothelial functions. Specific factors such as reactive oxygen species had deleterious effects, especially in the obese and elderly. Another important finding included the shear stress-induced endothelial nitric oxide (NO), which may delay development of atherosclerosis. Perivascular Adipose Tissue (PVAT) also contributes to reparative measures against atherosclerosis, although this may turn pathological in obese subjects. Some of these factors may be targets for pharmaceutical agents in the near future.

CONCLUSION

The complex role and function of the endothelium is vital for regular homeostasis. Dysregulation may drive atherogenesis; thus, efforts should be placed at considering therapeutic options by targeting some of the factors noted.

EPDR1 is a noncanonical effector of insulin-mediated angiogenesis regulated by an endothelial-specific TGF-β receptor complex

Insulin signaling in blood vessels primarily functions to stimulate angiogenesis and maintain vascular homeostasis through the canonical PI3K and MAPK signaling pathways. However, angiogenesis is a complex process coordinated by multiple other signaling events. Here, we report a distinct crosstalk between the insulin receptor and endoglin/activin receptor-like kinase 1 (ALK1), an endothelial cell-specific TGF-β receptor complex essential for angiogenesis. While the endoglin-ALK1 complex normally binds to TGF-β or bone morphogenetic protein 9 (BMP9) to promote gene regulation via transcription factors Smad1/5, we show that insulin drives insulin receptor oligomerization with endoglin-ALK1 at the cell surface to trigger rapid Smad1/5 activation. Through quantitative proteomic analysis, we identify ependymin-related protein 1 (EPDR1) as a major Smad1/5 gene target induced by insulin but not by TGF-β or BMP9. We found endothelial EPDR1 expression is minimal at the basal state but is markedly enhanced upon prolonged insulin treatment to promote cell migration and formation of capillary tubules. Conversely, we demonstrate EPDR1 depletion strongly abrogates these angiogenic effects, indicating that EPDR1 is a crucial mediator of insulin-induced angiogenesis. Taken together, these results suggest important therapeutic implications for EPDR1 and the TGF-β pathways in pathologic angiogenesis during hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance.

Temporal response characterization across individual multiomics profiles of prediabetic and diabetic subjects

Longitudinal deep multiomics profiling, which combines biomolecular, physiological, environmental and clinical measures data, shows great promise for precision health. However, integrating and understanding the complexity of such data remains a big challenge. Here we utilize an individual-focused bottom-up approach aimed at first assessing single individuals’ multiomics time series, and using the individual-level responses to assess multi-individual grouping based directly on similarity of their longitudinal deep multiomics profiles. We used this individual-focused approach to analyze profiles from a study profiling longitudinal responses in type 2 diabetes mellitus. After generating periodograms for individual subject omics signals, we constructed within-person omics networks and analyzed personal-level immune changes. The results identified both individual-level responses to immune perturbation, and the clusters of individuals that have similar behaviors in immune response and which were associated to measures of their diabetic status.

Bioinformatics Analysis of Exercise-Related Biomarkers in Diabetes

Background

Exercise is a regular behavioral activity that not only helps to lose weight but also reduces the risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Diabetes is a common disease that plagues human health. It is shown that regular exercise can improve the insulin sensitivity of diabetic patients and have an important function in adjuvant therapy.

Methods

We downloaded the GSE101931 dataset from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, 10 samples were obtained from the GSE101931 dataset, including 5 before exercise and 5 postexercise samples, and GEO2R was used to screen the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) exhibited by a heat map. Then, the enrichment analysis of DEGs in Gene Ontology (GO) function was analyzed by Metascape, and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway of DEGs was also analyzed by gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). Next, the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network maps were drawn, and the hub genes were identified through Metascape. Finally, the expressions of the hub genes in the dataset were analyzed.

Results

Totally, 116 upregulated DEGs and 1017 downregulated DEGs were identified from these data. These DEGs were mainly enriched in the platelet-derived growth factor receptor signaling pathway and mRNA processing. Then, the GSEA analysis showed that 6 KEGG pathways were associated with postexercise prediabetic samples, namely, ABC transporters, focal adhesion, MAPK signaling pathway, prion diseases, melanogenesis, and gap junction. Afterward, three hub genes (HSPA8, STIP1, and HSPH1) were highly expressed after exercise through the box plot analysis.

Conclusion

A myriad of research results confirms that there is a certain connection between exercise and diabetes, which provides a favorable basis for emerging exercise into the treatment of diabetic patients.

Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor Superfamily Member 21 Induces Endothelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Coronary Artery Endothelium of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is an increasing threat to human health and regarded as an important public issue. Coronary artery disease is one of the main causes of death in type 2 DM patients. However, the effect of hyperglycemia on coronary artery endothelial cells (CAECs) and the pathophysiologic mechanisms are still not well-explored. This study aims to explore the signal pathway and novel biomarkers of injury of CAECs in DM in understanding the microenvironment changes and mechanisms of diabetic heart disease. Next-generation sequence (NGS) and bioinformatics analysis to analyze the CAECs of one type 2 DM patient and one normal individual was performed, and it was found that tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 21 (TNFRSF21) was a soluble factor in circulating system. Further experiments confirmed that advanced glycation end products (AGEs), the metabolite derived by hyperglycemia, increased the expression of TNFRSF21 in CAECs. TNFRSF21 induced endothelial–mesenchymal transition (EndoMT) in CAECs, resulting in increased permeability of CAECs. In addition, levels of serum TNFRSF21 were higher in type 2 DM patients with left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) than those without LVH. Serum TNFRSF21 levels were also positively correlated with the LV mass index and negatively with LV systolic function. Serum TNFRSF21 levels were associated with changes in cardiac structure and function in patients with type 2 DM. In conclusion, TNFRSF21 plays a pathogenic role in heart disease of type 2 DM, and can be used as a biomarker of the impairment of cardiac structure and function in type 2 DM patients.

Genetic Modification as a New Approach to Ameliorate the Therapeutic Efficacy of Stem Cells in Diabetic Retinopathy

Over the last decades, the strategy of using stem cells has gained a lot of attention in treating many diseases. Recently, DR was identified as one of the common complications experienced by diabetic patients around the world. The current treatment strategy needs to be addressed since the active progression of DR may lead to permanent blindness. Interestingly, varieties of stem cells have emerged to optimize the therapeutic effects. It is also known that stem cells possess multilineage properties and are capable of differentiating, expanding in vitro and undergoing genetic modification. Moreover, modified stem cells have shown to be an ideal resource to prevent the degenerative disease and exhibit promising effects in conferring the migratory, anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory and provide better homing for cells into the damaged tissue or organ as well promoting healing properties. Therefore, the understanding of the functional properties of the stem cells may provide the comprehensive guidance to understand the manipulation of stem cells making them useful for long-term therapeutic applications. Hence in this review the potential use and current challenges of genetically modified stem cells to treat DR will be discussed along with its future perspectives.

Receptor tyrosine kinases as a therapeutic target by natural compounds in cancer treatment

Background

Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) are single-pass transmembrane proteins that play significant roles in regulating cellular processes, including cell division and growth. Overexpression and mutations of RTKs have been found in clinical manifestations of different forms of cancer. Therefore, RTKs have received considerable interest as a therapeutic biomarker in the treatment of cancer cells.

Main body of the abstract

Comprehensive data on RTKs, pharmacological and biological properties of natural compounds were systematically searched up to 2021 using relevant keywords from various databases, such as Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus. The scientific search by various standard electronic resources and databases unveils the effectiveness of medicinal plants in the treatment of various cancers. In vitro and in vivo studies suggested that bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, phenols, alkaloids, and many others can be used pharmacologically as RTKs inhibitors (RTKI) either by competing with ATP at the ATP binding site of the tyrosine kinase domain or competing for the receptor extracellular domain. Additionally, studies conducted on animal models indicated that inhibition of RTKs catalytic activity by natural compounds is one of the most effective ways to block the activation of RTKs signaling cascades, thereby hampering the proliferation of cancer cells. Furthermore, various pharmacological experiments, transcriptomic, and proteomic data also reported that cancer cells treated with different plants extracts or isolated phytochemicals exhibited better anticancer properties with minimal side effects than synthetic drugs. Clinically, natural compounds have demonstrated significant anti-proliferative effect via induction of cell apoptosis in cancer cell lines.

Short conclusion

An in-depth knowledge of the mechanism of inhibition and structural characterization of RTKs is important to the design of novel and selective RTKIs. This review focuses on the molecular mechanisms and structures of natural compounds RTKI targeting vascular endothelial growth factor, epidermal growth factor receptor, insulin receptor, and platelet-derived growth factor while also giving future directions to ameliorate the scientific burden of cancer.

Graphic abstract

Serum Levels of PDGF, EGF, and sFlt-1 in Patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Their Predictive Effects on Pregnancy Outcomes

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a neuroendocrine disease with complex etiology characterized by infrequent menstruation, follicular developmental disorders, insulin resistance, and hyperandrogenism. PCOS patients often suffer from anovulatory infertility, and even after successful pregnancy promotion, spontaneous abortion is easy to occur. At present, PCOS is mainly diagnosed by auxiliary examinations such as sex hormones and B ultrasonography, and there is a lack of specific serological markers for the diagnosis of diseases. Similarly, there is a lack of effective evaluation methods for the risk of abortion in PCOS patients. Therefore, it is extremely important to explore the factors that affect the occurrence of abortion in PCOS patients and to find specific indicators that can guide the pregnancy outcome of PCOS patients. The purpose of this study was to investigate the serum levels of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), epidermal growth factor (EGF), and soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) in PCOS patients and analyze their predictive effects on the pregnancy outcomes of PCOS patients. The results showed that serum PDGF, EGF, and sFlt-1 levels were secreted abnormally in PCOS patients with abortion and were closely related to the pregnancy outcome of PCOS patients. The combination of the three levels has the highest value in predicting the pregnancy outcome of PCOS patients, which is worth promoting.

Atypical Cellular Elements of Unknown Origin in the Subbasal Nerve Plexus of a Diabetic Cornea Diagnosed by Large-Area Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy

In vivo large-area confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) of the human eye using EyeGuidance technology allows a large-scale morphometric assessment of the corneal subbasal nerve plexus (SNP). Here, the SNP of a patient suffering from diabetes and associated late complications was analyzed. The SNP contained multiple clusters of large hyperintense, stellate-shaped, cellular-like structures. Comparable structures were not observed in control corneas from healthy volunteers. Two hypotheses regarding the origin of these atypical structures are proposed. First, these structures might be keratocyte-derived myofibroblasts that entered the epithelium from the underlying stroma through breaks in Bowman’s layer. Second, these structures could be proliferating Schwann cells that entered the epithelium in association with subbasal nerves. The nature and pathophysiological significance of these atypical cellular structures, and whether they are a direct consequence of the patient’s diabetic neuropathy/or a non-specific secondary effect of associated inflammatory processes, are unknown.