Multiparametric and semiquantitative scoring systems for the evaluation of mouse model histopathology--a systematic review

Toxoplasma gondii modulates immune responses and mitigates type 1 diabetes progression in a streptozotocin-induced rat model

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is an autoimmune disease characterized by the destruction of insulin-producing β-cells in the pancreas. Emerging evidence suggests that infections, including Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii), may modulate immune responses and influence disease outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the effects of T. gondii infection on the development of T1DM in a Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced rat model, with an emphasis on immune modulation, cytokine profiles, and organ inflammation. In rats experimentally infected with pathogenic and non-pathogenic Toxoplasma strains, diabetes was induced via STZ injection and compared to a control group. Blood glucose levels and the expression of IL-10, IL-1β, and TNF-α at both gene and protein levels were assessed. Histopathological examinations of the pancreas and kidneys were conducted, alongside small-animal PET scans to evaluate metabolic activity in these organs. The T. gondii-infected diabetic groups showed reduced blood glucose levels, increased IL-10, and decreased TNF-α and IL-1β levels compared to the STZ group. Histopathological and PET imaging analyses revealed improved pancreatic and renal tissues and reduced metabolic activity, indicating improvement effects associated with decreased inflammation and immune modulation. T. gondii infection seems to influence immune responses and slow the progression of T1DM in a rat model. These results suggest a potential therapeutic role for parasitic infections in autoimmune diseases, offering valuable insights into the complex relationship between infections, immune regulation, and metabolic health.

Assessing the therapeutic potential of silicon dioxide nanoparticles in acute and chronic toxoplasmosis in BALB/c mice

Toxoplasmosis, an infection caused by the obligate intracellular parasite Toxoplasma gondii, represents a significant global health concern, particularly for immunocompromised individuals. This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effects of silicon dioxide nanoparticles (SiO2-NPs) against both acute (T. gondii RH strain) and chronic (T. gondii PRU strain) infections in BALB/c mice. In the acute infection model, mice (n = 40) were infected with 104 T. gondii tachyzoites, while the chronic infection model (n = 40) involved the injection of 50 active cysts. Mice were treated with SiO2-NPs or pyrimethamine. Evaluations of parasite load and histopathological changes were conducted. The results showed that SiO2-NPs significantly reduced the number of cysts in the brain, indicating their effectiveness in controlling T. gondii proliferation. In cases of acute infection, there was a statistically significant decrease in parasite load (p < 0.01). Although there was no significant difference between the pyrimethamine and SiO2-NPs groups (p > 0.05), nanoparticles exhibited greater efficacy than pyrimethamine in acute infection. Furthermore, histopathological analysis revealed that mice were treated with SiO2-NPs displayed less severe lesions compared to the positive control group. The findings suggest that SiO2-NPs may offer a dual therapeutic advantage by reducing parasite load while also mitigating tissue damage. Further research is needed to explore the mechanisms behind the effectiveness of SiO2-NPs and to assess their long-term effects on T. gondii infections.

IgA nephropathy is associated with Opisthorchis felineus liver fluke infection: Retrospective 5-year analysis of human kidney samples

OBJECTIVES

Infection with the fish-borne liver fluke Opisthorchis felineus, which is transmitted through the consumption of raw or undercooked fish, results in serious liver damage in humans. Currently, limited clinical and experimental data reveal kidney damage co-occurring with chronic opisthorchiasis. We conducted a retrospective analysis of kidney autopsy samples over a five-year period (n = 84). The aim of the study was to assess pathomorphological changes in the kidneys and evaluate whether there is an association between IgA nephropathy and liver fluke infection.

METHODS

Histological analysis, immunohistochemistry, and statistical analysis were performed.

RESULTS

In this study, we demonstrated for the first time that chronic O. felineus infection in humans was associated with tubular dystrophy, the accumulation of renal tubular casts, and glomerulosclerosis. The hypertension increases the pathomorphological changes associated with chronic opisthorchiasis. We also detected IgA and the O. felineus total antigen in glomeruli of infected people. Fisher's test showed a significant association between O. felineus infection and IgA nephropathy, as well as between O. felineus infection and glomerulosclerosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Therefore, the findings of this study highlight the importance of recognising O. felineus infection as a more than hepatobiliary disease and emphasise the need for careful, personalised monitoring of kidney function in infected individuals.

Experimental Investigation into the Effect of Variable Inflation Intervals on Capsule Thickness in Tissue Expander

Introduction: Increasing the thickness of the capsule around the tissue expander, as in breast reconstruction complicates the expansion process and increases the time to achieve the required flap size. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of changes in inflation intervals and amounts on the capsule thickness around the tissue expander. Methods: Fifteen adult rats were divided into 3 groups, and 25 cc elliptical tissue expanders were placed on the back of each, and inflated with 5 cc saline. Expanders were inflated daily in Group 1, every 3 days in Group 2, and every 10 days in Group 3. Inflation was stopped, then expanders were removed and skin flaps were harvested after the results of the expansion were measured. Biopsies containing skin and capsule tissue were evaluated by histomorphometry and immunohistochemistry. Results: Skin flaps were measured as 81 cm2 in Group 1 and 89.3 cm2 in both Groups 2 and 3. When capsule thickness and number of vessels were examined; the thickest capsule was found in Group 2 while Group 3 had the densest vascularization. On histopathological examination of the biopsies, no significant difference was found between groups, except for the histiocyte density, which was the lowest in Group 1 and the highest in Group 3. Conclusions: This experiment showed that inflating tissue expander in small amounts at frequent intervals decreased the thickness of the capsule but it resulted in smaller skin flaps. Thus, it may be beneficial to adopt this protocol in some patients, for example in patients who are predicted to have increased capsule thickness due to the effect of radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy, or who are prone to fibrosis. Additionally, in patients whose flap size is important, it may be reasonable to inflate the tissue expander at less frequent intervals and in relatively large volumes for preventing flap loss and avoiding an increase in capsule thickness.

Enhanced inflammatory and oxidative response mitigation by acetyl-L-carnitine in a rat model of pelvic inflammatory disease

Acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC) is known for its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This research aimed to investigate the properties of ALC in combating pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in a rat model. PID, a consequence of sexually transmitted infections in females, can impact the fallopian tubes and uterus, leading to complications. This study is a randomized control preclinical experiment. A total of 24 reproductively mature Sprague Dawley female rats were randomly and equally assigned (n = 4 per group) to six cohorts: control, PID, low-dose prophylactic, high-dose prophylactic, and low-dose therapeutic and high-dose therapeutic groups. PID was induced by injecting the rat cervix with a multi-pathogen solution. Acetyl-L-carnitine, 100 mg/kg (once a day), was orally administered to rats in the low-dose prophylactic group, while 200 mg/kg (once a day) to the high-dose prophylactic group, starting 1 day prior to induction of PID. The therapeutic groups were given similar doses of ALC 1 day after the PID model was confirmed. Samples from the right upper genital tract were collected for ELISA and antioxidant assays, while the left upper genital tract samples underwent histopathological analysis. According to the results, the ALC-treated groups showed a decreased level of cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α) and oxidative stress markers (catalase, lipid peroxidation) when compared to the PID group. Histopathological examinations revealed that ALC treatment reduced the infiltration of neutrophils and lymphocytes in the uterus compared to the PID group. It was concluded that ALC showed potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in PID and, therefore, could be used as a possible option for the treatment of PID.

Integrated In-silico and In-vivo Assessments of Betaine's Effect on the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Testicular (HPT) Axis in Fluoride-Treated Rats

Toxicity is associated with undue sodium fluoride (NaF) exposure, and Betaine (BET) is recognised for its nutraceutical benefits. Although it is necessary to reduce toxic level exposure to fluoride, the literature lacks information on the role of BET in mitigating fluoride-induced reproductive toxicity. Therefore, this study assesses the impact of BET on NaF-induced reproductive perturbation in male rats. Wistar rats were treated with NaF (9 mg/kg) alone or co-treated with BET (50 or 100 mg/kg) for 28 d. Our findings indicate that BET significantly mitigated alterations in sperm functionality indices caused by NaF treatment. BET substantially increased reproductive hormone levels and averted NaF-induced increases in oxidative stress biomarkers and testicular enzymes. NaF-induced increases in inflammatory markers in the testis, epididymis, and hypothalamus were effectively reversed upon BET co-treatment. Also, co-treatment with BET protected genome integrity, as evidenced by p53 and apoptotic markers Bax and Bcl-2 levels, abating damages in the testes, epididymis, and hypothalamus of NaF-treated rats. Also, our findings from in-silico studies revealed that BET moderately inhibits the molecular activation of the inhibitor of nuclear factor-κB kinase, hypoxia-inducible factor -1 alpha, and proviral integration for the Moloney murine leukaemia virus-1 kinase. While it is preferable to reduce fluoride exposure, the relevant findings here indicate that BET exhibits anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic properties that ameliorate inadvertent NaF-mediated toxicities in experimental rats exposed to NaF.

Effect of cinnamon oil (Cinnamomum burmannii) on the histological kidney of male diabetic rats (Rattus norvegicus)

Background

Chronic systemic disease known as diabetes mellitus is defined by elevated blood glucose levels and problems with fat, carbohydrate, and protein metabolism. In Indonesia, the cinnamon species found include Cinnamomum burmannii, which also has hypoglycemic activity. The primary antioxidant chemicals found in C. burmannii bark extract are polyphenols, which include tannins and flavonoids.

Aim

The antidiabetic activity of cinnamon essential oil (C. burmannii) against streptozotocin (STZ) was examined in this study.

Methods

STZ (45 mg/kg BW) was administered intraperitoneally as a single dose. Twenty male rats were employed in this investigation. The rats were divided into five groups: treatment 1 (P1) was administered with STZ and provided with 100 mg/kg BW; treatment 2 (P2) was administered with STZ and provided with 200 mg/kg BW; and treatment 3 (P3) was administered with STZ and provided with 400 mg/kg BW. The negative control group (K-) was not treated with STZ and was treated with 1% Tween 80. For 14 days, the medication was administered daily.

Results

The essential oil of cinnamon may lessen glomerulosclerosis, tubular necrosis, tubular degeneration, and glomerular necrosis. The kidney P3 treatment (400 mg/kg BW) produced negligible effects.

Conclusion

It is possible to create cinnamon essential oil as an herbal antidiabetic medication by lowering the degree of kidney cell damage.

Effect of feeding Tithonia diversifolia zinc oxide nanoparticle emulsion on glutathione peroxidase and anti-insulin production in diabetic nephropathy Wistar rats

Background and Aim

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a major complication of diabetes mellitus characterized by oxidative stress and inflammation. Conventional treatments often fail to prevent its progression. This study investigates the therapeutic potential of Tithonia diversifolia zinc oxide nanoparticle emulsion (TDNP) in mitigating DN by enhancing antioxidant and immunomodulatory mechanisms. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of TDNP on oxidative stress markers, inflammation, and insulin activity in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced DN rats.

Materials and Methods

Male Wistar rats (n = 24) were divided into four groups: control (saline), positive control (0.1% zinc oxide suspension), treatment (TDNP at 100 mg/kg body weight), and comparison (quercetin at 5 mg/kg body weight). DN was induced using STZ and nicotinamide. Blood glucose, creatinine, urea, gamma-glutamyl transferase (γ-GT), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were assessed. Oxidative stress markers (superoxide dismutase [SOD], glutathione peroxidase [GPx]), inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α), and immunohistochemical indicators (anti-insulin, interferon-gamma [IFN-γ]) were measured. Data were analyzed using a one-way analysis of variance and Kruskal-Wallis tests.

Results

TDNP treatment significantly reduced blood glucose, creatinine, urea, γ-GT, and TNF-α levels (p ≤ 0.05), while increasing SOD, GPx, and anti-insulin levels compared with the positive control. Histopathological analysis showed decreased necrosis and inflammation in pancreatic and renal tissues. Immunohistochemistry revealed enhanced anti-insulin and reduced IFN-γ expression in TDNP-treated rats, indicating improved immune regulation and oxidative stress mitigation.

Conclusion

TDNP demonstrates potent antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects, effectively improving glucose metabolism and kidney function in DN. These findings highlight TDNP as a promising therapeutic agent for managing DN.

Ultradiluted Eupatorium perfoliatum Prevents and Alleviates SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein-Induced Lung Pathogenesis by Regulating Inflammatory Response and Apoptosis

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

SARS-CoV-2 provokes acute oxidative stress in the lungs via cytokines, inflammatory mediators, and apoptotic factors, which might cause alveolar injury followed by severe respiratory syndrome during COVID-19 infection. The lack of particular antivirals for SARS-CoV-2 has opened novel avenues of complementary and alternative medicine as a potential remedy. The current study explored the mechanistic role of the ultradiluted formulation of Eupatorium (UDE) against SARS-CoV-2 recombinant S protein-mediated oxidative stress and mitochondriopathy.

METHODS

Cell line and BALB/c mice were used to report that SARS-CoV-2 S protein caused an inflammatory response and subsequent cytokine storm via the NF-κB pathway in the lung along with oxidative damage. Morphological examination was performed using DAPI staining and histology for treated cells and lung tissues of animals, respectively. The molecular mechanism of action of UDE was investigated through qRT-PCR for the genetic expressions of various cytokines, inflammatory, and apoptotic mediators; ELISA, immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, and Western blot for the translational expression of the same molecules assayed for genetic expressions; and biochemical assays for various enzymes and ROS.

RESULTS

UDE treatment suppressed the inflammatory cell infiltration and tissue-level oxidative stress and safeguarded mitochondrial integrity from free radical-mediated oxidative damage. Additionally, UDE played a direct role in restoring cellular redox homeostasis and reducing the inflammatory response by suppressing NF-κB, IL-1β, IL-18, caspase-1 expression, and ROS formation. Further, a plausible mechanism of action of UDE against S protein-induced damage was proposed.

CONCLUSIONS

This study described a novel therapeutic approach against S protein-mediated hyperinflammation, apoptosis, and oxidative damage. Hence, UDE may be considered as a prospective alternative to combat life-threatening consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Shen Qi Wan regulates OPN/CD44/PI3K pathway to improve airway inflammation in COPD: Network pharmacology, bioinformatics, and experimental validation

BACKGROUND

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the most common respiratory diseases with undefined pathogenesis and unsatisfactory therapeutic options. Shenqi Wan (SQW), a traditional Chinese medicinal compound, has demonstrated certain preventive and therapeutic effects on COPD. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain incompletely understood. In this study, we used weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and machine learning to identify biomarkers for COPD, combined with network pharmacology and experimental validation to evaluate how SQW reduces airway inflammation in COPD.

METHODS

Targets of SQW in treating COPD and its network regulation mechanism were predicted via network pharmacology. Meanwhile, potential biomarkers were predicted using WGCNA and machine learning algorithms and validated in COPD patients. The relationship between the core pathway and key target was analyzed by ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA) to reveal the regulatory mechanism of SQW. We evaluated the efficacy of SQW treatment in LPS/MS-induced COPD mice by evaluating lung function, histopathological parameters, and levels of inflammatory markers and oxidative stress. The distribution and expression of OPN/CD44/PI3K loop-related proteins were examined through immunofluorescence staining and Western Blotting. In vitro, we added LPS to BEAS-2B cells to mimic the inflammatory microenvironment and transfected the cells with OPN overexpression plasmid to observe the improvement induced by SQW.

RESULTS

GO and KEGG analyses demonstrated that SQW inhibited inflammation and oxidative stress via the PI3K/Akt pathway, thereby improving COPD. Machine learning algorithms identified OPN as a potential biomarker, with elevated expression observed in the lung tissue of COPD patients. IPA indicated that OPN may modulate the CD44-mediated activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway, forming a positive feedback regulatory mechanism. SQW ameliorated lung function and pathological injury in mice; further, it reduced inflammation, oxidative stress, and OPN/CD44/PI3K positive feedback loop-related protein expression in both mice and cells. After OPN overexpression, the levels of inflammatory factors and ROS were significantly increased, and the OPN/CD44/PI3K signal was further activated, weakening the ameliorative effect of the SQW drug-containing serum.

CONCLUSION

Overall, SQW contributed to ameliorating COPD by reducing airway inflammation and oxidative stress through inhibiting the OPN/CD44/PI3K positive feedback loop.

Semisynthetic Glycoconjugate Vaccine Lead against Klebsiella pneumoniae Serotype O2afg Induces Functional Antibodies and Reduces the Burden of Acute Pneumonia

Carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CR-Kp) bacteria are a serious global health concern due to their drug-resistance to nearly all available antibiotics, fast spread, and high mortality rate. O2afg is a major CR-Kp serotype in the sequence type 258 group (KPST258) that is weakly immunogenic in humans. Here, we describe the creation and evaluation of semisynthetic O2afg glycoconjugate vaccine leads containing one and two repeating units of the polysaccharide epitope that covers the surface of the bacteria conjugated to the carrier protein CRM197. The semisynthetic glycoconjugate containing two repeating units induced functional IgG antibodies in rabbits with opsonophagocytic killing activity and enhanced complement activation and complement-mediated killing of CR-Kp. Passive immunization reduced the burden of acute pneumonia in mice and may represent an alternative to antimicrobial therapy. The semisynthetic glycoconjugate vaccine lead against CR-Kp expressing O2afg antigen is awaiting preclinical development.

Unveiling the physiological impact of ESCRT-dependent autophagosome closure by targeting the VPS37A ubiquitin E2 variant-like domain

Macroautophagy (autophagy) involves the formation of phagophores that mature into autophagosomes. The impact of inhibiting autophagosome closure remains unclear. Here, we report the generation and analysis of mice with impaired autophagosome closure by targeting the ubiquitin E2 variant-like (UEVL) β strands of the endosomal sorting complex required for transport (ESCRT) I subunit VPS37A. The VPS37A UEVL mutation (Δ43-139) impairs bulk autophagic flux without disrupting ESCRT-I complex assembly and endosomal function. Homozygous mutant mice exhibit signs of autophagy impairment, including p62/SQSTM1 and ubiquitinated protein accumulation, neuronal dysfunction, growth retardation, antioxidant gene upregulation, and tissue abnormalities. However, about half of the mutant neonates survive to adulthood without severe liver injury. LC3 proximity proteomics reveals that the VPS37A UEVL mutation leads to active TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK1) accumulation on phagophores, resulting in increased p62 phosphorylation and inclusion formation. These findings reveal a previously unappreciated role of LC3-conjugated phagophores in facilitating protein aggregation and sequestration, potentially alleviating proteotoxicity.

Impact of ivermectin on nerve regeneration following sciatic injury in mice: the consequences of dietary high fructose

Background/aim

Peripheral nerve injuries (PNIs) are debilitating disorders affecting predominantly the younger generation, often leading to significant disabilities. Current treatment strategies are inadequate for addressing the complex nature of these injuries. Peripheral nerve healing and functional recovery are crucial components of both pathophysiology and therapeutic approaches. High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a sweetener frequently used in several beverages and foods. It is associated with several metabolic disturbances including insulin resistance and may impair nerve healing. This study investigated the therapeutic role of ivermectin on nerve regeneration following sciatic nerve injury and evaluated motor and sensorial functions together with histopathological evaluation. Additionally, we aimed to compare nerve healing between animals that consume HFCS and those that do not.

Materials and methods

Forty-eight male Swiss albino mice were randomly divided into six groups, with three consuming HFCS-42 (11% v/v) and the other three regular tap water for 8 weeks. On day 28, sciatic nerve injury (SNI) was caused in all groups. Ivermectin (1 mg/kg) or gabapentin (30 mg/kg) treatments were administered to selected groups. Body weight, blood glucose, motor function (rotarod, open field test), and thermal-mechanical sensorial functions were assessed weekly. Finally, insulin levels were measured and histopathological samples were taken.

Results

Eight weeks of HFCS consumption impaired mechanical and thermal sensory functions and resulted in histopathologically poor nerve repair. Ivermectin resulted in improved sensorial and faster motor function recovery in the HFCS groups. Elevated plasma insulin levels/HOMA-IR values were diminished by ivermectin in the HFCS groups. In the ivermectin non-HFCS group, histopathology revealed accelerated healing and higher scores in total. Ivermectin also ameliorated mechanical sensation loss after SNI along with cold sensation.

Conclusion

Ivermectin accelerated sensorial and motor nerve recovery, resulting in faster nerve healing alongside improved insulin resistance, suggesting it might serve as a potential foundation for developing a new treatment for nerve regeneration after injury.

Species-specific renal and liver responses during infection with food-borne trematodes Opisthorchis felineus, Opisthorchis viverrini, or Clonorchis sinensis

Three food-borne trematodes-Opisthorchis felineus, Opisthorchis viverrini, and Clonorchis sinensis-are closely related epidemiologically important species. Despite the similarity of their life cycles, these liver flukes also have marked differences in the geographical range, helminth biology, and hepatobiliary disorders. O. viverrini and C. sinensis are classified as Group 1 biological carcinogens while O. felineus is not. Direct comparisons of systemic response to the liver fluke infections are unexplored aspects. This study was carried out to identify species-specific liver and kidney responses in the hamster models after the infection with one of the three liver flukes. Liver periductal-fibrosis development was similar between hamsters infected with O. felineus or C. sinensis, whereas biliary intraepithelial neoplasia development was noticed predominantly in O. viverrini-infected ones. Species-specific renal damage was detected, including progression of interstitial fibrosis and IgA deposition in glomeruli of O. felineus-infected hamsters and C. sinensis-infected ones. A strong correlation (R = 0.63; P = 0.0001) was found between periductal fibrosis in the liver and kidney interstitial fibrosis. Future comparative studies are needed to elucidate the development of serious complications during the long term of the infection, as well as under the influence of additional factors, including concomitant infections and the use of dimethylnitrosamine to clarify the mechanisms underlying the liver fluke-associated carcinogenesis. Thus, our findings may stimulate new comparative studies on the pathogenicity.

Acute toxicity effects of ethylene glycol on lethal dose 50 (LD50), urine production, and histopathology change renal tubule cell in mice

Background

The LD50 (lethal dose causing 50% mortality) of ethylene glycol (EG) and its associated toxicity in mice (Mus musculus) were assessed by evaluating kidney function.

Aim

This study aimed to determine the acute toxicity of an oral lethal dose of 50% (LD50) of EG, also degeneration, necrosis, and inflammatory cell invasion in kidney tubules of male rats (Rattus norvegicus) as an animal model.

Methods

There were 66 DDG (Deutschland Denken Yoken) mice in 11 groups of six in this investigation. The daylong metabolic cage study contained one control (C) and 10 treatment groups that received different EG doses. EG's daily BW/kg dosage varied from 0.5 mg/kg to 15,000 mg/kg. The treatment group was given a single dose of EG at a dose of T1 = 0.5 mg/kg BW, T2 = 1.57 mg/kg BW, T3 = 4.94 mg/kg BW, T4 = 15.54 mg/kg BW, T5 = 48.84 mg/kg BW, T6 = 153.55 mg/kg BW, T7 = 482.74 mg/kg BW, and T8 = 1517.66 mg/kg BW T9 = 4771.24 mg/kg BW, T10 = 14999.99 ≈ 15. 000 mg/kg BW. One-way Analysis of Variance testing was used to analyze the data.

Results

The LD50 value of EG in mice was determined to be 1.598 mg/kg BW, classifying EG as "Slightly Toxic." According to renal histopathology, EG dosage increased renal tubular degeneration, necrosis, and interstitial inflammatory cell infiltration. Acute renal impairment and lower urine output were observed in the EG (4.94 mg/kg-1517.66 mg/kg BW). Histologically, EG levels are associated with renal tubular cell degeneration, necrosis, and interstitial inflammatory cell growth.

Conclusion

Acute EG exposure caused renal failure in male mice. Acute exposure to EG causes renal tubular cell degeneration and inflammation, indicating toxicity and health hazards.

TRIM7 ubiquitinates SARS-CoV-2 membrane protein to limit apoptosis and viral replication

SARS-CoV-2 is a highly transmissible virus that causes COVID-19 disease. Mechanisms of viral pathogenesis include excessive inflammation and viral-induced cell death, resulting in tissue damage. Here we show that the host E3-ubiquitin ligase TRIM7 acts as an inhibitor of apoptosis and SARS-CoV-2 replication via ubiquitination of the viral membrane (M) protein. Trim7-/- mice exhibit increased pathology and virus titers associated with epithelial apoptosis and dysregulated immune responses. Mechanistically, TRIM7 ubiquitinates M on K14, which protects cells from cell death. Longitudinal SARS-CoV-2 sequence analysis from infected patients reveal that mutations on M-K14 appeared in circulating variants during the pandemic. The relevance of these mutations was tested in a mouse model. A recombinant M-K14/K15R virus shows reduced viral replication, consistent with the role of K15 in virus assembly, and increased levels of apoptosis associated with the loss of ubiquitination on K14. TRIM7 antiviral activity requires caspase-6 inhibition, linking apoptosis with viral replication and pathology.

Novel insights into antioxidant status, gene expression, and immunohistochemistry in an animal model infected with camel-derived Trypanosoma evansi and Theileria annulata

BACKGROUND

Hemoprotozoan diseases, especially trypanosomosis and theileriosis, adversely affect the productivity, growth, and performance of camels. Regular sampling and investigation of camels are challenging due to several factors. Consequently, there is a lack of knowledge on camel parasite genotyping, cytokine production, and oxidative stress parameters during infection.

METHODS

The present study investigated two critical blood protozoa infecting camels in Egypt, Trypanosoma evansi and Theileria annulata, using molecular methods, specifically 18S rRNA gene analysis. Following molecular confirmation, experimental infections were induced in Swiss albino mice to assess the expression of immune response genes and oxidative stress parameters. The study further explored the correlation between histopathological alterations and inflammatory reactions in the kidney, spleen, and liver of infected mice, alongside the immunohistochemical expression of caspase-3, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF).

RESULTS

Trypanosoma evansi and T. annulata isolated from naturally infected camels were molecularly identified and deposited in GenBank under accession numbers OR116429 and OR103130, respectively. Infection with T. evansi and T. annulata caused significant adverse effects on the immune condition of infected mice, increasing the pathogenicity of the infection. This was evidenced by a significant increase in oxidative stress parameter levels in both naturally infected camels and experimentally infected mice compared to healthy controls. Furthermore, the expression of immune response genes was significantly elevated in infected mice. Immunohistochemistry analysis showed a pronounced upregulation of caspase-3, PCNA, and TNF in the infected groups relative to the control group. These findings are the first to be reported in Egypt.

CONCLUSIONS

This study successfully identified and genotyped two economically important blood protozoa, T. evansi and T. annulata, from camels in Egypt. Additionally, the experimental animal model provided valuable insights into the immune response, oxidative stress, and histopathological changes induced by these parasites, demonstrating comparable results to naturally infected camels. These findings highlight the potential of this model to study parasite-host interactions and immune responses, contributing to a better understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms of T. evansi and T. annulata infections. This model may be useful for future studies focused on disease control and therapeutic interventions.

Microbiota-induced alteration of kynurenine metabolism in macrophages drives formation of creeping fat in Crohn's disease

Hyperplasia of mesenteric tissues in Crohn's disease, called creeping fat (CrF), is associated with surgical recurrence. Although microbiota translocation and colonization have been found in CrF, convincing mouse phenotypes and the underlying mechanisms of CrF formation remain unclear. Utilizing single-nucleus RNA (snRNA) sequencing of CrF and different mouse models, we demonstrate that the commensal Achromobacter pulmonis induces mesenteric adipogenesis through macrophage alteration. Targeted metabolome analysis reveals that L-kynurenine is the most enriched metabolite in CrF. Upregulation of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) enhances kynurenine metabolism and drives mesenteric adipogenesis. Leveraging single-cell RNA (scRNA) sequencing of mouse mesenteric tissues and macrophage-specific IDO1 knockout mice, we verify the role of macrophage-sourced L-kynurenine in mesenteric adipogenesis. Mechanistically, L-kynurenine-induced adipogenesis is mediated by the aryl hydrocarbon receptors in adipocytes. Administration of an IDO1 inhibitor or bacteria engineered to degrade L-kynurenine alleviates mesenteric adipogenesis in mice. Collectively, our study demonstrates that microbiota-induced modulation of macrophage metabolism potentiates CrF formation.

A novel mouse model of hepatocyte-specific apoptosis-induced myeloid cell-dominant sterile liver injury and repair response

Apoptosis, inflammation, and wound healing are critical pathophysiological events associated with various liver diseases. Currently, there is a lack of in vivo approaches to study hepatocyte apoptosis-induced liver injury and repair. To address this critical knowledge gap, we developed a unique genetically modified mouse model, namely, 3-Transgene (Tg) with inducible Hepatocyte-Specific Apoptosis Phenotype (3xTg-iHAP) in this study. The 3xTg-iHAP mice possess three transgenes including Alb-Cre, Rosa26-rtTA, and tetO-Fasl on a B6 background. These mice are phenotypically normal, viable, and fertile. After subcutaneous administration of a single dose of doxycycline (5 mg/kg, Dox) to 3xTg-iHAP mice, we observed a complete histological spectrum of sterile liver wound-healing responses: asymptomatic hepatocyte apoptosis at 8 h, necrotic liver injury and sterile inflammation at 48 h, followed by hepatocyte mitosis and regeneration within 7 days. During the injury phase, the mice exhibited an increase in the biomarkers of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 1 (CXCL1), and IL-6 in peripheral blood, as well as α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) protein in liver tissues. Conversely, the mice displayed a decrease in these markers in the recovery phase. Remarkably, this model shows that the sterile liver injury following elevated hepatocyte apoptosis is associated with an increase in myeloid cells in the liver. Within 7 days post-Dox administration, the liver of Dox-treated 3xTg-iHAP mice displays a normal histological structure, indicating the completion of wound healing. Together, we established a novel mouse model of injury and regeneration induced by hepatocyte apoptosis. This tool provides a robust in vivo platform for studying the pathophysiology of sterile liver inflammation, regeneration, and new therapeutic interventions for liver diseases.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Bu et al. present a triple-transgenic mouse model, namely, 3xTg-iHAP mice that are engineered to explore hepatocyte apoptosis-triggered sterile liver injury and regeneration. This model demonstrates a full spectrum of liver wound-healing responses from asymptomatic apoptosis to injury, myeloid cell-dominant sterile inflammation, and repair after induction of hepatocyte-specific apoptosis. The robust nature of this model makes it an invaluable in vivo tool for studying sterile liver inflammation, regeneration, and new therapeutic strategies.

Alterations of Liver Morphology in Senescent Rats

Age-related liver changes can have important implications for health and metabolic function. This study aimed to describe the morphoquantitative alterations of the liver in senescent rats compared to adult rats. Twelve male rats were used, divided into 6-month-old adults (group A) and 36-month-old senescent rats (group S). Morphometric and histopathological studies, quantification of collagen types I and III, and stereological analyses were performed to determine the volume density of mononucleated (VvhepM) and binucleated (VvhepB) hepatocyte nuclei, surface area density (SvhepM), and number density (NvhepM) of mononucleated hepatocyte nuclei. The findings reveal an alteration of the normal liver tissue architecture in senescent rats and the presence of inflammatory lesions and fibrosis. In addition, there was a decrease in body and liver mass and volume. Group S showed a significant reduction in VvhepM and NvhepM; however, SvhepM was significantly higher. No significant differences were noted in the percentage of binucleated hepatocytes between the two groups. This study reveals substantial morphological changes in the aging liver, with possible functional implications. More research is needed on the underlying mechanisms and their consequences at older ages.

A spatially resolved single-cell lung atlas integrated with clinical and blood signatures distinguishes COVID-19 disease trajectories

COVID-19 is characterized by a broad range of symptoms and disease trajectories. Understanding the correlation between clinical biomarkers and lung pathology during acute COVID-19 is necessary to understand its diverse pathogenesis and inform more effective treatments. Here, we present an integrated analysis of longitudinal clinical parameters, peripheral blood markers, and lung pathology in 142 Brazilian patients hospitalized with COVID-19. We identified core clinical and peripheral blood signatures differentiating disease progression between patients who recovered from severe disease compared with those who succumbed to the disease. Signatures were heterogeneous among fatal cases yet clustered into two patient groups: "early death" (<15 days until death) and "late death" (>15 days). Progression to early death was characterized systemically and in lung histopathological samples by rapid endothelial and myeloid activation and the presence of thrombi associated with SARS-CoV-2+ macrophages. In contrast, progression to late death was associated with fibrosis, apoptosis, and SARS-CoV-2+ epithelial cells in postmortem lung tissue. In late death cases, cytotoxicity, interferon, and T helper 17 (TH17) signatures were only detectable in the peripheral blood after 2 weeks of hospitalization. Progression to recovery was associated with higher lymphocyte counts, TH2 responses, and anti-inflammatory-mediated responses. By integrating antemortem longitudinal blood signatures and spatial single-cell lung signatures from postmortem lung samples, we defined clinical parameters that could be used to help predict COVID-19 outcomes.

TIM-3 on myeloid cells promotes pulmonary inflammation through increased production of galectin-3

T cell immunoglobulin and mucin-containing molecule 3 (TIM-3) exhibits unique, cell type- and context-dependent characteristics and functions. Here, we report that TIM-3 on myeloid cells plays essential roles in modulating lung inflammation. We found that myeloid cell-specific TIM-3 knock-in (FSF-TIM3/LysM-Cre+) mice have lower body weight and shorter lifespan than WT mice. Intriguingly, the lungs of FSF-TIM3/LysM-Cre+ mice display excessive inflammation and features of disease-associated pathology. We further revealed that galectin-3 levels are notably elevated in TIM-3-overexpressing lung-derived myeloid cells. Furthermore, both TIM-3 blockade and GB1107, a galectin-3 inhibitor, ameliorated lung inflammation in FSF-TIM3/LysM-Cre+/- mice. Using an LPS-induced lung inflammation model with myeloid cell-specific TIM-3 knock-out mice, we demonstrated the association of TIM-3 with both lung inflammation and galectin-3. Collectively, our findings suggest that myeloid TIM-3 is an important regulator in the lungs and that modulation of TIM-3 and galectin-3 could offer therapeutic benefits for inflammation-associated lung diseases.

Effects of liver X receptor in O3-induced airway inflammation and remodeling in mice

Background

The current clinical treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) mainly uses drugs to improve symptoms, but these drugs cannot reverse the progression of the disease and the pathological changes in lung tissue. This study aimed to investigate the effects and mechanisms of Liver X receptors (LXRs) in ozone (O3)-induced airway inflammation and remodeling in mice.

Methods

Wild mice and LXR deficient mice were exposed to O3 twice a week for 6 weeks. Some wild mice were intraperitoneally injected with T0901317 (a LXR agonist) before O3 exposure. Wild mice were exposed to ambient air and intraperitoneally injected with normal saline (NS) as control group. The lung tissues and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were collected to evaluate airway inflammation, airway remodeling and lipid disorder.

Results

After O3 exposure, LXR deficient mice showed severe airway inflammation and airway remodeling compared with the wild mice. There were a lot of foamy macrophages appeared in BALF of LXR deficient mice. The inflammatory proteins such as myeloid differentiation primary response protein 88 (MyD88) and interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase (IRAK) in the lung tissues of LXR deficient mice were significantly increased compared with the wild mice. In wild mice exposed to O3, T0901317 treatment can alleviate airway inflammation, airway remodeling and foamy macrophages in BALF. And MyD88 and IRAK expression in lung tissue were also attenuated by T0901317 treatment.

Conclusions

LXRs play protective roles in O3-induced lipid accumulation, airway inflammation and airway remodeling.

An exploratory deep learning approach to investigate tuberculosis pathogenesis in nonhuman primate model: Combining automated radiological analysis with clinical and biomarkers data

BACKGROUND

Tuberculosis (TB) kills approximately 1.6 million people yearly despite the fact anti-TB drugs are generally curative. Therefore, TB-case detection and monitoring of therapy, need a comprehensive approach. Automated radiological analysis, combined with clinical, microbiological, and immunological data, by machine learning (ML), can help achieve it.

METHODS

Six rhesus macaques were experimentally inoculated with pathogenic Mycobacterium tuberculosis in the lung. Data, including Computed Tomography (CT), were collected at 0, 2, 4, 8, 12, 16, and 20 weeks.

RESULTS

Our ML-based CT analysis (TB-Net) efficiently and accurately analyzed disease progression, performing better than standard deep learning model (LLM OpenAI's CLIP Vi4). TB-Net based results were more consistent than, and confirmed independently by, blinded manual disease scoring by two radiologists and exhibited strong correlations with blood biomarkers, TB-lesion volumes, and disease-signs during disease pathogenesis.

CONCLUSION

The proposed approach is valuable in early disease detection, monitoring efficacy of therapy, and clinical decision making.

PDIA iminosugar influence on subcutaneous Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections in mice

Introduction

Biofilm-associated infections persist as a therapeutic challenge in contemporary medicine. The efficacy of antibiotic therapies is ineffective in numerous instances, necessitating a heightened focus on exploring novel anti-biofilm medical strategies. Among these, iminosugars emerge as a distinctive class of compounds displaying promising biofilm inhibition properties.

Methods

This study employs an in vivo wound infection mouse model to evaluate the effectiveness of PDIA in treating biofilm-associated skin wound infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Dermic wounds in mice were infected with biofilm-forming strains, specifically S. aureus 48 and P. aeruginosa 5, which were isolated from patients with diabetic foot, and are well-known for their strong biofilm formation. The subsequent analysis included clinical, microbiological, and histopathological parameters. Furthermore, an exploration into the susceptibility of the infectious strains to hydrogen peroxide was conducted, acknowledging its potential presence during induced inflammation in mouse dermal wounds within an in vivo model.

Results

The findings revealed the efficacy of PDIA iminosugar against the S. aureus strain, evidenced by a reduction in bacterial numbers within the wound and the inflammatory focus.

Discussion

This study suggests that PDIA iminosugar emerges as an active and potentially effective antibiofilm agent, positioning it as a viable treatment option for staphylococcal infections.

Diminished Immune Response and Elevated Abundance in Gut Microbe Dubosiella in Mouse Models of Chronic Colitis with GBP5 Deficiency

Guanylate binding protein 5 (GBP5) is an emerging immune component that has been increasingly recognized for its involvement in autoimmune diseases, particularly inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). IBD is a complex disease involving inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Here, we explored the functional significance of GBP5 using Gbp5 knockout mice and wildtype mice exposed to dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) to generate chronic colitis model. We found that Gbp5 deficiency protected mice from DSS-induced chronic colitis. Transcriptome analysis of colon tissues showed reduced immune responses in Gbp5 knockout mice compared to those in corresponding wildtype mice. We further observed that after repeated DSS exposure, the gut microbiota was altered, both in wildtype mice and Gbp5 knockout mice; however, the gut microbiome health index was higher in the Gbp5 knockout mice. Notably, a probiotic murine commensal bacterium, Dubosiella, was predominantly enriched in these knockout mice. Our findings suggest that GBP5 plays an important role in promoting inflammation and dysbiosis in the intestine, the prevention of which might therefore be worth exploring in regards to IBD treatment.

Reveal the mechanism of hepatic oxidative stress in mice induced by photo-oxidation milk using multi-omics analysis techniques

INTRODUCTION

Photo-oxidation is recognized as a contributor to the deterioration of milk quality, posing potential safety hazards to human health. However, there has been limited investigation into the impact of consuming photo-oxidized milk on health.

OBJECTIVES

This study employs multi-omics analysis techniques to elucidate the mechanisms by which photo-oxidized milk induces oxidative stress in the liver.

METHODS

Mouse model was used to determine the effect of the gavage administration of milk with varying degrees of photo-oxidation on the mouse liver. The damage degree was established by measuring serum markers indicative of oxidative stress, and with a subsequent histopathological examination of liver tissues. In addition, comprehensive metabolome, lipidome, and transcriptome analyses were conducted to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms of hepatic damage caused by photo-oxidized milk.

RESULTS

A significant elevation in the oxidative stress levels and the presence of hepatocellular swelling and inflammation subsequent to the gavage administration of photo-oxidized milk to mice. Significant alterations in the levels of metabolites such as lumichrome, all-trans-retinal, L-valine, phosphatidylglycerol, and phosphatidylcholine within the hepatic tissue of mice. Moreover, photo-oxidized milk exerted a pronounced detrimental impact on the glycerophospholipid metabolism of mice liver. The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR) signaling pathway enrichment appreciated in the animals that consumed photo-oxidized milk further supports the substantial negative influence of photo-oxidized milk on hepatic lipid metabolism. Gene set enrichment and interaction analyses revealed that photo-oxidized milk inhibited the cytochrome P450 pathway in mice, while also affecting other pathways associated with cellular stress response and lipid biosynthesis.

CONCLUSION

This comprehensive study provides significant evidence regarding the potential health risks associated with photo-oxidized milk, particularly in terms of hepatic oxidative damage. It establishes a scientific foundation for assessing the safety of such milk and ensuring the quality of dairy products.

TRIM7 ubiquitinates SARS-CoV-2 membrane protein to limit apoptosis and viral replication

SARS-CoV-2 is a highly transmissible virus that causes COVID-19 disease. Mechanisms of viral pathogenesis include excessive inflammation and viral-induced cell death, resulting in tissue damage. We identified the host E3-ubiquitin ligase TRIM7 as an inhibitor of apoptosis and SARS-CoV-2 replication via ubiquitination of the viral membrane (M) protein. Trim7 -/- mice exhibited increased pathology and virus titers associated with epithelial apoptosis and dysregulated immune responses. Mechanistically, TRIM7 ubiquitinates M on K14, which protects cells from cell death. Longitudinal SARS-CoV-2 sequence analysis from infected patients revealed that mutations on M-K14 appeared in circulating variants during the pandemic. The relevance of these mutations was tested in a mouse model. A recombinant M-K14/K15R virus showed reduced viral replication, consistent with the role of K15 in virus assembly, and increased levels of apoptosis associated with the loss of ubiquitination on K14. TRIM7 antiviral activity requires caspase-6 inhibition, linking apoptosis with viral replication and pathology.

Discovery of BIO-8169─A Highly Potent, Selective, and Brain-Penetrant IRAK4 Inhibitor for the Treatment of Neuroinflammation

Interleukin receptor associated kinase 4 (IRAK4) plays an important role in innate immune signaling through Toll-like and interleukin-1 receptors and represents an attractive target for the treatment of inflammatory diseases and cancer. We previously reported the development of a potent, selective, and brain-penetrant imidazopyrimidine series of IRAK4 inhibitors. However, lead molecule BIO-7488 (1) suffered from low solubility which led to variable PK, compound accumulation, and poor in vivo tolerability. Herein, we describe the discovery of a series of pyridone analogs with improved solubility which are highly potent, selective and demonstrate desirable PK profiles including good oral bioavailability and excellent brain penetration. BIO-8169 (2) reduced the in vivo production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, was well tolerated in safety studies in rodents and dog at margins well above the predicted efficacious exposure and showed promising results in a mouse model for multiple sclerosis.

[Comparative pathology in oncology-Best practice]

Comparative experimental pathology is a research field at the interface of human and veterinary medicine. It is focused on the comparative study of similarities and differences between spontaneous and experimentally induced diseases in animals (animal models) compared to human diseases. The use of animal models for studying human diseases is an essential component of biomedical research. Interdisciplinary teams with species-specific expertise should collaborate wherever possible and maintain close communication. Mutual openness, cooperation, and willingness to learn form the basis for a fruitful collaboration. Research projects jointly led by or involving both animal and human pathologists make a significant contribution to high-quality biomedical research. Such approaches are promising not only in oncological research, as outlined in this article, but also in other research areas where animal models are regularly used, such as infectiology, neurology, and developmental biology.

Interleukin-2/anti-interleukin-2 complex attenuates inflammation in a mouse COPD model by expanding CD4+ CD25+ Foxp3+ regulatory T cells

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Chronic, nonspecific inflammation of the alveoli and airways is an important pathological feature of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), while sustained inflammatory reactions can cause alveolar damage. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) inhibit inflammation, whereas the interleukin-2/anti-interleukin-2 complex (IL-2C) increases the number of Tregs; however, whether the IL-2C has a therapeutic role in COPD remains unknown. Therefore, this study investigated whether IL-2C alleviates lung inflammation in COPD by increasing the number of Tregs.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

A mouse COPD model was created by exposing mice to lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and cigarette smoke (CS), and the effects of IL-2C treatment on COPD were evaluated. The number of Tregs in the spleen and lung, pulmonary pathological changes, and inflammatory damage were examined through flow cytometry, histopathology, and immunofluorescence, respectively.

KEY RESULTS

IL-2C increased the number of Treg cells in the spleen and lungs after exposure to CS and LPS, reduced the number of T helper 17 (Th17) cells in lung tissue, and improved the Th17/Treg balance. IL-2C decreased the number of inflammatory cells and reduced the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1β, CCL5, KC, and MCP-1 in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and serum. IL-2C significantly reduced the pathological scores for lung inflammation, as well as decreased airway mucus secretion and infiltration of neutrophils and macrophages in the lungs. The depletion of Tregs using anti-CD25 antibodies eliminated the beneficial effects of IL-2C.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

IL-2C is a potential therapeutic agent for alleviating excessive inflammation in the lungs of patients with COPD.

Robust adhesive nanocomposite sponge composed of citric acid and nano clays modified cellulose for rapid hemostasis of lethal non-compressible hemorrhage

Massive bleeding control plays the main role in saving people's lives in emergency situations. Herein, modified cellulose-based nanocomposite sponges by polydopamine (PDA) and laponite nano-clay was developed to sturdily deal with non-compressible lethal severe bleeding. PDA accomplishes supreme adhesion in the bleeding site (∼405 kPa) to form strong physical barrier and seal the position. Sponges super porous (∼70 % porosity) and super absorbent capacity (48 g blood absorbed per 1 g sponge) by concentrating the blood cells and platelets provides the requirements for primary hemostasis. Synergistically, the nanocomposite sponges' intelligent chemical structure induces hemostasis by activation of the XI, IX, X, II and FVII factors of intrinsic and extrinsic coagulation pathways. Excellent hemostatic performance of sponges in-vitro was assessed by RBC accumulation (∼100 %), blood clotting index (∼10 %), platelet aggregation/activation (∼93 %) and clotting time. The nanocomposite sponges depicted super performance in the fatal high-pressure non-compressible hemorrhage model by reducing of >2, 15 and 3 times in the bleeding amount at New Zealand rabbit's heart and liver, and rat's femoral artery bleeding models, respectively compared to commercial hemostatic agents (Pvalue˂0.001). The in-vivo host response results exhibited biosafety with no systemic and significant local inflammatory response by hematological, pathological and biochemical parameters assessments.

Complex In Vitro Model Characterization for Context of Use in Toxicologic Pathology: Use Cases by Collaborative Teams of Biologists, Bioengineers, and Pathologists

Complex in vitro models (CIVMs) offer the potential to increase the clinical relevance of preclinical efficacy and toxicity assessments and reduce the reliance on animals in drug development. The European Society of Toxicologic Pathology (ESTP) and Society for Toxicologic Pathology (STP) are collaborating to highlight the role of pathologists in the development and use of CIVM. Pathologists are trained in comparative animal medicine which enhances their understanding of mechanisms of human and animal diseases, thus allowing them to bridge between animal models and humans. This skill set is important for CIVM development, validation, and data interpretation. Ideally, diverse teams of scientists, including engineers, biologists, pathologists, and others, should collaboratively develop and characterize novel CIVM, and collectively assess their precise use cases (context of use). Implementing a morphological CIVM evaluation should be essential in this process. This requires robust histological technique workflows, image analysis techniques, and needs correlation with translational biomarkers. In this review, we demonstrate how such tissue technologies and analytics support the development and use of CIVM for drug efficacy and safety evaluations. We encourage the scientific community to explore similar options for their projects and to engage with health authorities on the use of CIVM in benefit-risk assessment.

The therapeutic effect of Loranthus parasiticus lignan derivatives on collagen-induced arthritis in rats through the SHBG/NFκB pathway

Lignan-rich beans, nuts, and various seeds are the main foods with antioxidative and hormone-modulating activities. Although the role of lignans in mediating hormone-dependent cancers and cardiovascular diseases is well characterized, the function of lignans in anti-arthritic activity and its underlying mechanisms remain unknown. Three new lignan derivatives, (-)-nortrachelogenin, trachelogenin, and matairesinol, were extracted from Loranthus parasiticus. After establishing the collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) model by intradermal injection of collagen, rats were treated with three new lignan derivatives ((-)-nortrachelogenin: 37%; trachelogenin: 27%; matairesinol: 25.7%) at a concentration of 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg, or methotrexate at 0.3 mg/kg. Mixed lignan derivatives significantly attenuated the immune responses in the joints of CIA rats, leading to lower levels of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-α) and higher levels of free androgen in the serum compared to the CIA model. The results of molecular docking using AutoDock Vina showed that the lignan derivative (-)-nortrachelogenin was the most effective compound for binding to sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), thus inhibiting the activity of NFκB in LPS-stimulated macrophages. In this study, (-)-nortrachelogenin was identified as a novel natural lignan derivative with previously unrecognized anti-inflammatory activity. Its molecular mechanism appears related to the regulation of the NFκB/SHBG pathway. Our findings suggest that further application of sex hormone-like compounds in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and the potential clinical applications of (-)-nortrachelogenin are promising.

Biofilms and core pathogens shape the tumor microenvironment and immune phenotype in colorectal cancer

Extensive research has explored the role of gut microbiota in colorectal cancer (CRC). Nonetheless, metatranscriptomic studies investigating the in situ functional implications of host-microbe interactions in CRC are scarce. Therefore, we characterized the influence of CRC core pathogens and biofilms on the tumor microenvironment (TME) in 40 CRC, paired normal, and healthy tissue biopsies using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and dual-RNA sequencing. FISH revealed that Fusobacterium spp. was associated with increased bacterial biomass and inflammatory response in CRC samples. Dual-RNA sequencing demonstrated increased expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, defensins, matrix-metalloproteases, and immunomodulatory factors in CRC samples with high bacterial activity. In addition, bacterial activity correlated with the infiltration of several immune cell subtypes, including M2 macrophages and regulatory T-cells in CRC samples. Specifically, Bacteroides fragilis and Fusobacterium nucleatum correlated with the infiltration of neutrophils and CD4+ T-cells, respectively. The collective bacterial activity/biomass appeared to exert a more significant influence on the TME than core pathogens, underscoring the intricate interplay between gut microbiota and CRC. These results emphasize how biofilms and core pathogens shape the immune phenotype and TME in CRC while highlighting the need to extend the bacterial scope beyond CRC pathogens to advance our understanding and identify treatment targets.

Research-based Analytical Procedures to Evaluate Diabetic Biomarkers and Related Parameters: In Vitro and In Vivo Methods

BACKGROUND

The degenerative tendency of diabetes leads to micro- and macrovascular complications due to abnormal levels of biochemicals, particularly in patients with poor diabetic control. Diabetes is supposed to be treated by reducing blood glucose levels, scavenging free radicals, and maintaining other relevant parameters close to normal ranges. In preclinical studies, numerous in vivo trials on animals as well as in vitro tests are used to assess the antidiabetic and antioxidant effects of the test substances. Since a substance that performs poorly in vitro won't perform better in vivo, the outcomes of in vitro studies can be utilized as a direct indicator of in vivo activities.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the present study is to provide research scholars with a comprehensive overview of laboratory methods and procedures for a few selected diabetic biomarkers and related parameters.

METHOD

The search was conducted on scientific database portals such as ScienceDirect, PubMed, Google Scholar, BASE, DOAJ, etc. Conclusion: The development of new biomarkers is greatly facilitated by modern technology such as cell culture research, lipidomics study, microRNA biomarkers, machine learning techniques, and improved electron microscopies. These biomarkers do, however, have some usage restrictions. There is a critical need to find more accurate and sensitive biomarkers. With a few modifications, these biomarkers can be used with or even replace conventional markers of diabetes.

The effects of short-time air pollution, SO2, and ozone on biochemical, histo-pathological, oxidative stress, and carcinogenesis related genes expressions in the liver of the rats

OBJECTIVE OF THE RESEARCH

Air pollution is a universal issue and has significant deleterious effects on both human health and also environment. The important indicators of air pollution include ozone (O3), particulate matter (PM), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and sulfur dioxide (SO2). This research aims to investigate the impacts of ambient air pollution (AAP), SO2, and O3 on oxidative stress parameters, liver tissue histopathology, and expression of some carcinogenesis-related genes in the hepatic tissue of rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

32 Wistar rats were randomly allocated to four groups: the control group, the AAP group, the SO2 group (10 ppm), and the ozone group (0.6 ppm). Over a period of five consecutive weeks, the rats were exposed to the specified pollutants for 3 h daily; liver tissues were harvested and instantly fixed with formalin. Pathological changes were assessed in the tissue samples. Additionally, the RT-qPCR technique was utilized to investigate Expression alterations of BAX, p-53, BCL2, caspase-3, caspase-8 and caspase-9. Furthermore, 30 milligrams of hepatic tissues were extracted to assess the activities of oxidative stress enzymes.

RESULTS

The liver catalase and MDA activity were elevated in the air pollution (p < .05). Also, liver GPx activity in air pollution and ozone groups was significant in comparison to the control group (p < .05). The SO2 group exhibited severe lesions in histopathology examinations.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings revealed an alteration in liver histopathology, an induction of oxidative stress, and the expression of some apoptosis-related genes in hepatic tissues after exposure to AAP, SO2, and O3.

Metabolic reprograming and increased inflammation by cadmium exposure following early-life respiratory syncytial virus infection-the involvement of protein S-palmitoylation

Early-life respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection (eRSV) is one of the leading causes of serious pulmonary disease in children. eRSV is associated with higher risk of developing asthma and compromised lung function later in life. Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic metal, widely present in the environment and in food. We recently showed that eRSV re-programs metabolism and potentiates Cd toxicity in the lung, and our transcriptome-metabolome-wide study showed strong associations between S-palmitoyl transferase expression and Cd-stimulated lung inflammation and fibrosis signaling. Limited information is available on the mechanism by which eRSV re-programs metabolism and potentiates Cd toxicity in the lung. In the current study, we used a mouse model to examine the role of protein S-palmitoylation (Pr-S-Pal) in low dose Cd-elevated lung metabolic disruption and inflammation following eRSV. Mice exposed to eRSV were later treated with Cd (3.3 mg CdCl2/L) in drinking water for 6 weeks (RSV+Cd). The role of Pr-S-Pal was studied using a palmitoyl transferase inhibitor, 2-bromopalmitate (BP, 10 µM). Inflammatory marker analysis showed that cytokines, chemokines and inflammatory cells were highest in the RSV+Cd group, and BP decreased inflammatory markers. Lung metabolomics analysis showed that pathways including phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan, phosphatidylinositol and sphingolipid were altered across treatments. BP antagonized metabolic disruption of sphingolipid and glycosaminoglycan metabolism by RSV+Cd, consistent with BP effect on inflammatory markers. This study shows that Cd exposure following eRSV has a significant impact on subsequent inflammatory response and lung metabolism, which is mediated by Pr-S-Pal, and warrants future research for a therapeutic target.

Safety assessment of European cranberrybush (Viburnum opulus L.) fruit juice: Acute and subacute oral toxicity

European cranberrybush (ECB) (Viburnum opulus L.) fruits are abundant in phenolic compounds associated with various health benefits. However, the toxicity and safety of ECB juice have not been systematically studied. In the present study, acute and subacute oral toxicities of ECB fruit juice were evaluated on Sprague-Dawley rats and BALB/c mice to establish a toxicity profile. In acute tests, a single administration of 2000 mg/kg body weight of extract to rats exhibited no clinical signs of toxicity or mortality, indicating that the lethal dose (LD50) was over 2000 mg/kg. In subacute tests, repeated administration for 28 days at 0 (control), 500, and 2000 mg/kg doses of extract in mice did not display adverse clinical signs or deaths. However, in the 2000 mg/kg subacute group, platelet counts were significantly high, which correlated with histopathological analyses revealing that ECB extract at 2000 mg/kg was toxic to the kidney, liver, and adipose tissue. The NOAEL value of ECB extract was found as 500 mg/kg/day, but further sub-chronic and chronic toxicity studies are warranted to comprehensively evaluate the long-term safety implications. The study's results emphasize the importance of considering the dosage of dietary supplements containing high levels of phenolic compounds over an extended period to avoid potential cumulative effects from prolonged consumption of high doses.

Safety evaluation of rare ginsenosides of stems and leaves from American ginseng: 90-day exposure toxicity study combined with intestinal flora analysis and metabonomics in rats

Rare ginsenosides have already been widely applied in many fields, including health food and bio-medicine. The human being can expose to rare ginsenosides directly or indirectly increasingly. However, there are few studies on the safety assessment of rare ginsenoside mixtures. In the present study, the sub-chronic toxicity of rare ginsenosides for 90 days on SD rats was performed by combining the intestinal flora analysis and urine metabonomics aiming to illustrate the safety of long-term consumption of rare ginsenosides and the potential damage for liver and intestinal. 48 adult rats were divided into four groups: control (0 mg/kg), low-dose (60 mg/kg), medium-dose (200 mg/kg), and high-dose (600 mg/kg). Rats in the high-dose group showed inflammatory changes in their livers and intestines. The strong bactericidal effect of rare ginsenosides caused intestinal flora disorder and changed the structure of intestinal flora in rats, thus inducing intestinal damage in rats. In the high-dose group, levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and alkaline phosphatase (AKP) increased significantly. As a result of the high-dose treatment, certain metabolic pathways were altered, such as vitamin B6 metabolism, methionine metabolism, glutathione metabolism, and others. These results indicated that high doses of rare ginsenosides induced liver injury by affecting the above metabolic pathways. Rare ginsenosides with no observed adverse effect level (NOAEL) were below 200 mg/kg/day in vivo. Thus, this present study provides insight into the rational use of rare ginsenosides.

Chronic Kombucha Beverage Consumption Attenuates Inflammatory Markers and Histopathology of Brain Tissue in Transnet Global Brain Ischemia in Rats

There is evidence that kombucha beverage (KB), a traditional fermented beverage, has a preventive effect on experimental brain ischemia. According to our previous studies, pre-treatment of KB attenuates brain edema and improves motor skills and oxidative stress in a rat model of global brain ischemia. This study was designed to evaluate the effects of the pre-treatment of KB, as a novel agent, on pro-inflammatory parameters and brain histopathology changes following global brain ischemia. Adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into the sham, the control, and the groups treated with kombucha (KB1 and KB2 groups). KB at doses 1 and 2 mL/kg was prescribed two-week consecutive days before induction of global brain ischemia. Global brain ischemia was induced by blocking common carotid arteries for 60 min and the following reperfusion by 24 h. The serum and brain levels of tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α), IL-1β, histopathological change, and infarct volume are determined using the ELISA, hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), and 2,3,5-triphenyl tetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining, respectively. This study indicated that pre-treatment of KB significantly reduced infarct volume, the serum, and brain levels of TNF-α and IL-1β. The histopathological finding of the brain tissue confirmed a protective role for pre-treatment KB in the ischemic rats. Thus, the present study showed that the beneficial effects of KB pre-treatment on brain ischemic may be mediated by decreasing pro-inflammatory parameters.

Dietary aflatoxin B1 and antimalarial-a lumefantrine/artesunate-therapy perturbs male rat reproductive function via pro-inflammatory and oxidative mechanisms

We investigated the impact of Coartem™ (COA) and aflatoxin B1 (AFB₁) on rats' hypothalamus, epididymis, and testis. Male rats were randomly grouped (n = 5 rats) and treated: control group (corn oil), AFB₁ (70 µg/kg), COA (5 mg/kg), COA + AFB₁ (5 + 0.035 mg/kg) and COA + AFB₁ (5 + 0.07 mg/kg) for 28 days. Blood samples were collected for serum prolactin, testosterone, follicle-stimulating and luteinising hormones (FSH and LH) assay upon sacrifice. The semen, hypothalamus, epididymis, and testes were harvested for morphological, biochemical, and histopathology determination of oxidative, inflammation stress, genomic integrity, and pathological alterations. Exposure to the COA and AFB₁ caused the cauda epididymal spermatozoa to display low motility, viability, and volume, with increased abnormalities. Hormonal disruption ensued in animals exposed to COA and AFB₁ alone or together, exemplified by increased prolactin, and decreased testosterone, FSH and LH levels. Treatment-related reduction in biomarkers of testicular metabolism-acid and alkaline phosphatases, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, and lactate dehydrogenase-were observed. Also, COA and AFB₁ treatment caused reductions in antioxidant (Glutathione and total thiols) levels and antioxidant enzyme (Catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione-S-transferase) activities in the examined organs. At the same time, treatment-related increases in DNA damage (p53), oxidative stress (xanthine oxidase, reactive oxygen and nitrogen species and lipid peroxidation), inflammation (nitric oxide and tumour necrosis factor-alpha), and apoptosis (caspase-9, and -3) were observed. Chronic exposure to COA and AFB1 led to oxidative stress, inflammation, and DNA damage in male rats' hypothalamic-reproductive axis, which might potentiate infertility if not contained.

Development and Validation of a Multiparametric Semiquantitative Scoring System for the Histopathological Assessment of Ischaemia Severity in Skeletal Muscle

Skeletal muscle is one of the most abundant and dynamic tissues of the body, with a strong regenerative capacity. Muscle injuries can occur as a result of a variety of events, including tissue ischaemia. Lower limb ischaemia occurs when there is an insufficient nutrient and oxygen supply, often caused by stenosis of the arteries due to atherosclerosis. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a multiparametric scoring tool for assessing ischaemia severity in skeletal muscle in a commonly used preclinical animal model. Tissue ischaemia was surgically induced in mice by ligation and excision of the femoral artery. Calf muscles were carefully dissected, prepared for histological analysis, and scored for inflammation, fibrosis, necrosis, adipocyte infiltration, and muscle fibre degeneration/regeneration. Kendall's coefficient of concordance (W) showed a very good agreement between the appraisers when scoring each individual histological feature: inflammation (W = 0.92, p ≤ 0.001), fibrosis (W = 0.94, p ≤ 0.001), necrosis (W = 0.77, p ≤ 0.001), adipocyte infiltration (W = 0.91, p ≤ 0.001), and fibre degeneration/regeneration (W = 0.86, p ≤ 0.001). Intrarater agreement was also excellent (W = 0.94 or more, p ≤ 0.001). There was a statistically significant negative association between the level of muscle ischaemia damage and the calf muscle weight and skeletal muscle fibre diameter. Here, we have developed and validated a new multiparametric, semiquantitative scoring system for assessing skeletal muscle damage due to ischaemia, with excellent inter- and intrarater reproducibility. This scoring system can be used for assessing treatment efficacy in preclinical models of hind limb ischaemia.

Mechanism of Action of Natural Compounds in Peripheral Multiorgan Dysfunction and Hippocampal Neuroinflammation Induced by Sepsis

Bacterial sepsis induces the production of excessive pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress, resulting in tissue injury and hyperinflammation. Patients recovering from sepsis have increased rates of central nervous system (CNS) morbidities, which are linked to long-term cognitive impairment, such as neurodegenerative pathologies. This paper focuses on the tissue injury and hyperinflammation observed in the acute phase of sepsis and on the development of long-term neuroinflammation associated with septicemia. Here we evaluate the effects of Coriolus versicolor administration as a novel approach to treat polymicrobial sepsis. Rats underwent cecal ligation and perforation (CLP), and Coriolus versicolor (200 mg/kg in saline) was administered daily by gavage. Survival was monitored, and tissues from vital organs that easily succumb to infection were harvested after 72 h to evaluate the histological changes. Twenty-eight days after CLP, behavioral analyses were performed, and serum and brain (hippocampus) samples were harvested at four weeks from surgery. Coriolus versicolor increased survival and reduced acute tissue injury. Indeed, it reduced the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the bloodstream, leading to a reduced chronic inflammation. In the hippocampus, Coriolus versicolor administration restored tight junction expressions, reduce cytokines accumulation and glia activation. It also reduced toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and the NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome components expression. Coriolus versicolor showed antioxidant activities, restoring glutathione (GSH) levels and catalase and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities and reducing lipid peroxidation, nitrite and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. Importantly, Coriolus versicolor reduced amyloid precursor protein (APP), phosphorylated-Tau (p-Tau), pathologically phosphorylated tau (PHF1), phosphorylated tau (Ser202 and Thr205) (AT8), interferon-induced transmembrane protein 3 (IFITM3) expression, and β-amyloid accumulation induced by CLP. Indeed, Coriolus versicolor restored synaptic dysfunction and behavioral alterations. This research shows the effects of Coriolus versicolor administration on the long-term development of neuroinflammation and brain dysfunction induced by sepsis. Overall, our results demonstrated that Coriolus versicolor administration was able to counteract the degenerative process triggered by sepsis.

Uroplakin 1a Knockout Mice Display Marginal Reduction in Fecundity, Decreased Bacterial Clearance Capacity, and Drastic Changes in the Testicular Transcriptome

Uroplakins (UPKs) form physical and chemical barriers in the bladder and other urinary tract tissues. We previously reported the identification and localization of UPKs in the male reproductive tract of rat. In this study, we characterized Upk1a knockout mice and report a marginal reduction in fecundity associated with significant decrease in sperm count. Upk1a mice had lower bacterial clearance capacity when challenged with uropathogenic Escherichia coli for 1 to 5 days. High-throughput analyses of testicular transcriptome indicated that 1128 genes that are expressed in testis of wild-type mice were completely absent in the knockout, while 2330 genes were found to be expressed only in the testis of knockout mice. Furthermore, differential regulation of 148 (67 upregulated and 81 downregulated) was observed. Gene ontology analyses indicated that processes related to integral components of membrane (plasma membrane), G-protein receptor activity and signaling, olfactory receptor activity and perception of smell, organization of extracellular space/region, immune and inflammatory responses to pathogens, spermatid development, meiotic cell cycle, and formation of synaptonemal complex were affected. Results of this study provide evidence on the possible multi-functional role of Upk1a in male reproductive tract and in other tissues as well.

Association between the dual use of electronic and conventional cigarettes and NAFLD status in Korean men

INTRODUCTION

This study investigated the association between smoking types, including dual use (usage of both combustible cigarettes and e-cigarettes), and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) status in Korean men.

METHODS

Data from the 7th and 8th Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) 2016-2020 were used. The presence of NAFLD was defined by the respective cut-off values for the Hepatic Steatosis Index (HSI), NAFLD Ridge Score (NRS), and Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey NAFLD score (KNS). Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to determine the associations between smoking types and NAFLD as determined by HSI, NRS, and KNS.

RESULTS

After adjustment for confounders, an independent association was observed between dual use and NAFLD (HSI: AOR=1.47; 95% CI: 1.08-1.99, p=0.014; NRS: AOR=2.21; 95% CI: 1.70-2.86, p=0.000; KNS: AOR=1.35; 95% CI: 1.01-1.81, p=0.045). Cigarette only smokers also had significantly higher odds of NAFLD compared to never smokers for all of the NAFLD indices (HSI: AOR=1.22; 95% CI: 1.05-1.42, p=0.008; NRS: AOR=2.13; 95% CI: 1.87-2.42, p=0.000; KNS: AOR=1.33; 95% CI: 1.14-1.55, p=0.000). In subgroup analyses, no significant interaction effects were found for age, BMI, alcohol consumption, income, physical activity, and the diagnosis of T2DM. Moreover, cigarette only smokers and dual users differed significantly in terms of log-transformed urine cotinine and pack-years. The relationship between smoking type and pack-years was attenuated after stratification by age.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that the dual use of e-cigarettes and combustible cigarettes is associated with NAFLD. Age differences may explain why dual users, with a greater proportion of young people, appear to have fewer pack-years than cigarette only smokers. Further research should be conducted to investigate the adverse effects of dual use on hepatic steatosis.

Use of acellular dermal matrix in peripheral nerve reconstruction: an experimental study on rat sciatic nerve defect

BACKGROUND

In patients with nerve tissue defects, the use of autologous nerve grafts is the standard method of treatment. Alternatives to autologous, nerve grafts have attracted the attention of reconstructive surgeons. In this study, the results of nerve repairs using acellular dermal matrix (ADM) in an experimental rat sciatic nerve defect model are presented.

METHODS

Thirty-six Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into 5 groups: Group 1: control group, Group 2: negative control group (n = 6), Group 3: autologous nerve graft group (n = 10), Group 4: donor site entubulated with ADM group (n = 10); and Group 5: nerve graft entubulated with ADM group (n = 10). The animals in each group were evaluated for electrophysiologic functions, gastrocnemius muscle weight and histomorphology on the 3rd and 6th month.

RESULTS

The compound muscle action potential was observed to be distinctly lower in Groups 3, 4 and 5 in comparison to the control group. In Group 4, the gastrocnemius ratio (GCR) values on the 6th month were statistically significantly lower than the GCR values in Group 3 and Group 5, The histological scores and myelinated axonal counts in Group 5 were statistically significantly higher than the values in Group 3 and Group 4.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study showed that wrapping ADM around nerve grafts resulted in better outcomes with respect to nerve healing.

Acute cytomegalovirus infection modulates the intestinal microbiota and targets intestinal epithelial cells

Primary and recurrent cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections frequently cause CMV colitis in immunocompromised as well as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients. Additionally, colitis occasionally occurs upon primary CMV infection in patients who are apparently immunocompetent. In both cases, the underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms are largely elusive - in part due to the lack of adequate access to specimens. We employed the mouse cytomegalovirus (MCMV) model to assess the association between CMV and colitis. During acute primary MCMV infection of immunocompetent mice, the gut microbial composition was affected as manifested by an altered ratio of the Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes phyla. Interestingly, these microbial changes coincided with high-titer MCMV replication in the colon, crypt hyperplasia, increased colonic pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, and a transient increase in the expression of the antimicrobial protein Regenerating islet-derived protein 3 gamma (Reg3γ). Further analyses revealed that murine and human intestinal epithelial cell lines, as well as primary intestinal crypt cells and organoids represent direct targets of CMV infection causing increased cell death. Accordingly, in vivo MCMV infection disrupted the intestinal epithelial barrier and increased apoptosis of intestinal epithelial cells. In summary, our data show that CMV transiently induces colitis in immunocompetent hosts by altering the intestinal homeostasis.

Therapeutic role of ursodeoxycholic acid in colitis-associated cancer via gut microbiota modulation

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a predisposing factor for colitis-associated cancer (CAC). The association between bile acids and the gut microbiota has been demonstrated in colon neoplasia; however, the effect of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) on gut microbiota alteration in development of colitis and CAC is unknown. Our analysis of publicly available datasets demonstrated the association of UDCA treatment and accumulation of Akkermansia. UDCA-mediated alleviation of DSS-induced colitis was microbially dependent. UDCA treatment significantly upregulated Akkermansia colonization in a mouse model. Colonization of Akkermansia was associated with enhancement of the mucus layer upon UDCA treatment as well as activation of bile acid receptors in macrophages. UDCA played a role in CAC prevention and treatment in the AOM-DSS and ApcMin/+-DSS models through downregulation of inflammation and accumulation of Akkermansia. This study suggests that UDCA intervention could reshape intestinal gut homeostasis, facilitating colonization of Akkermansia and preventing and treating colitis and CAC.