Epigenetic Alterations of IL-6/STAT3 Signaling by Placental Stem Cells Promote Hepatic Regeneration in a Rat Model with CCl4-induced Liver Injury

Effective substances and molecular mechanisms guided by network pharmacology: An example study of Scrophulariae Radix treatment of hyperthyroidism and thyroid hormone-induced liver and kidney injuries

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Scrophulariae Radix (Xuanshen [XS]) has been used for several years to treat hyperthyroidism. However, its effective substances and pharmacological mechanisms in the treatment of hyperthyroidism and thyroid hormone-induced liver and kidney injuries have not yet been elucidated.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to explore the pharmacological material basis and potential mechanism of XS therapy for hyperthyroidism and thyroid hormone-induced liver and kidney injuries based on network pharmacology prediction and experimental validation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Based on 31 in vivo XS compounds identified using ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem quadruple exactive orbitrap high-resolution accurate-mass spectrometry (UPLC-QE-HRMS), a network pharmacology approach was used for mechanism prediction. Systematic networks were constructed to identify the potential molecular targets, biological processes (BP), and signaling pathways. A component-target-pathway network was established. Mice were administered levothyroxine sodium through gavage for 30 d and then treated with different doses of XS extract with or without propylthiouracil (PTU) for 30 d. Blood, liver, and kidney samples were analyzed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and western blotting.

RESULTS

A total of 31 prototypes, 60 Phase I metabolites, and 23 Phase II metabolites were tentatively identified in the plasma of rats following the oral administration of XS extract. Ninety-six potential common targets between the 31 in vivo compounds and the diseases were identified. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis revealed that Bcl-2, BAD, JNK, p38, and ERK1/2 were the top targets. XS extract with or without PTU had the following effects: inhibition of T3/T4/fT3/fT4 caused by levothyroxine; increase of TSH levels in serum; restoration of thyroid structure; improvement of liver and kidney structure and function by elevating the activities of anti-oxidant enzymes catalase (CAT),superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px); activation anti-apoptotic proteins Bcl-2; inhibition the apoptotic protein p-BAD; downregulation inflammation-related proteins p-ERK1/2, p-JNK, and p-p38; and inhibition of the aggregation of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, as well as immune cells in the liver.

CONCLUSION

XS can be used to treat hyperthyroidism and liver and kidney injuries caused by thyroid hormones through its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties. In addition, serum pharmacochemical analysis revealed that five active compounds, namely 4-methylcatechol, sugiol, eugenol, acetovanillone, and oleic acid, have diverse metabolic pathways in vivo and exhibit potential as effective therapeutic agents.

Human placental extract regulates polarization of macrophages via IRGM/NLRP3 in allergic rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is globally prevalent and its pathogenesis remains unclear. Alternative activation of macrophages is suggested in AR and thought to be involved in natural immunoregulatory processes in AR. Aberrant activation of Nod-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is linked with AR. Human placenta extract (HPE) is widely used in clinics due to its multiple therapeutic potential carried by diverse bioactive molecules in it. We aim to investigate the effect of HPE on AR and the possible underlying mechanism. Ovalbumin (OVA)-induced AR rat model was set up and treated by HPE or cetirizine. General manifestation of AR was evaluated along with the histological and biochemical analysis performed on rat nasal mucosa. A proteomic analysis was performed on AR rat mucosa. Mouse alveolar macrophages (MH-S cells) were cultured under OVA stimulation to investigate the regulation of macrophages polarization. The morphological changes and the expression of NLRP3 inflammasome and immunity-related GTPase M (IRGM) in nasal mucosa as well as in MH-S cells were evaluated respectively. The results of our study showed the general manifestation of AR along with the histological changes in nasal mucosa of AR rats were improved by HPE. HPE suppresses NLRP3 inflammasome and the decline of IRGM in AR rats and MH-S cells. HPE regulates macrophage polarization through IRGM/NLRP3. We demonstrated that HPE had protection for AR and the protection is achieved partly through suppressing M1 while promoting M2, the process which is mediated by IRGM via inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome in AR.

Effects of Mesenchymal Stem Cells Treatment on Radiation-Induced Proctitis in Rats

PURPOSE

There are no effective treatment methods with which to control complications of radiation proctitis with fistula or recurrent bleeding following radiation treatment for prostate, cervical, or rectal cancer. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can induce immune modification, resulting in tissue repair and regeneration. Therefore, we used a rat model of radiation-induced proctitis and observed the effects of using human placenta-derived (PD) and adipose tissue-derived (AD) MSCs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Female Sprague Dawley rats were irradiated at the pelvic area with 25 Gy. We injected 1×10⁶ cells of human PD-MSCs, human AD-MSCs, human foreskin fibroblasts, and control media into the rectal submucosa following irradiation. We sacrificed rats for pathologic evaluation.

RESULTS

Fibrosis on the rectum was reduced in both MSC groups, compared to the control group. Mucosal Ki-67 indices of both MSC injected groups were higher than those in the control group. Although caspase-3 positive cells in the mucosa gradually increased and decreased in the control group, those in both MSC injected groups increased rapidly and decreased thereafter.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrated the effects of regional MSC injection treatment for radiation-induced proctitis in rats. MSC injection reduced fibrosis and increased proliferation in rat mucosa. Human AD-MSCs and PD-MSCs had similar effectiveness.

Protective Effect and Mechanism of Placenta Extract on Liver

The placenta contains multiple biologically active substances, which exert antioxidation, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and delayed aging effects. Its extract can improve hepatic morphology and function: on the one hand, it can reduce liver interstitial collagen deposition, lipogenesis, and inflammatory cell infiltration and improve fibrosis; on the other hand, it can prevent hepatocellular degeneration by scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inhibiting inflammatory cytokine production, further improve hepatocyte apoptosis and necrosis, and promote hepatocyte regeneration, making it a promising liver-protective agent. Current research on placenta extract (PE) mainly focuses on treating a specific type of liver injury, and there are no systematic reports. Therefore, this review comprehensively summarizes the treatment reports of PE on liver injury and analyzes its mechanism of action.

Effect of Porcine Placental Extract Mixture on Alcohol-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats

This study was conducted to examine the effect of porcine placenta extract mixture (pPEM, enzymatic/acidic extract = 1/3) on alcoholic hepatotoxicity after pPEM dosing with alcohol in rats. The experimental groups were normal, control, silymarin, three pPEM (590, 1771, and 2511 mg/kg/day, po), and silymarin (100 mg/kg/day, po) groups (n = 10). Alcoholic hepatotoxicity was caused by a liquid ethanol diet for 4 weeks. The effect of pPEM and silymarin on alcoholic hepatotoxicity was evaluated by serology, hepatic ADH and ALDH activities, and histopathological findings. After oral dosing with alcohol for 4 weeks, ALT and AST were significantly increased to 33.7 → 115.6 and 81.37 → 235.0 in the alcohol group, respectively. These levels were decreased significantly to 83.9 and 126.7 in the silymarin group and dose-dependently to 73.6–56.9 and 139.2–122.8 in all pPEM groups. Hepatic ADH and ALDH might have been increased in the control and not in the silymarin and pPEM groups for hepatic ADH. All pPEM groups exhibited no effects on hepatic ALDH except for the high pPEM group. Mild inflammation and fatty lesions were observed in the alcohol group and were attenuated in the silymarin and pPEM groups. As a results, the pPEM showed protective activities against alcoholic hepatotoxicity on the serological markers, hepatic ADH and ALDH, and pathological findings.

Combination Therapy of Placenta-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells with WKYMVm Promotes Hepatic Function in a Rat Model with Hepatic Disease via Vascular Remodeling

Changes in the structure and function of blood vessels are important factors that play a primary role in regeneration of injured organs. WKYMVm has been reported as a therapeutic factor that promotes the migration and proliferation of angiogenic cells. Additionally, we previously demonstrated that placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells (PD-MSCs) induce hepatic regeneration in hepatic failure via antifibrotic effects. Therefore, our objectives were to analyze the combination effect of PD-MSCs and WKYMVm in a rat model with bile duct ligation (BDL) and evaluate their therapeutic mechanism. To analyze the anti-fibrotic and angiogenic effects on liver regeneration, it was analyzed using ELISA, qRT-PCR, Western blot, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry. Collagen accumulation was significantly decreased in PD-MSCs with the WKYMVm combination (Tx+WK) group compared with the nontransplantation (NTx) and PD-MSC-transplanted (Tx) group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the combination of PD-MSCs with WKYMVm significantly promoted hepatic function by increasing hepatocyte proliferation and albumin as well as angiogenesis by activated FPR2 signaling (p < 0.05). The combination therapy of PD-MSCs with WKYMVm could be an efficient treatment in hepatic diseases via vascular remodeling. Therefore, the combination therapy of PD-MSCs with WKYMVm could be a new therapeutic strategy in degenerative medicine.

The Methyltransferase Smyd1 Mediates LPS-Triggered Up-Regulation of IL-6 in Endothelial Cells

The lysine methyltransferase Smyd1 with its characteristic catalytic SET-domain is highly enriched in the embryonic heart and skeletal muscles, participating in cardiomyogenesis, sarcomere assembly and chromatin remodeling. Recently, significant Smyd1 levels were discovered in endothelial cells (ECs) that responded to inflammatory cytokines. Based on these biochemical properties, we hypothesized that Smyd1 is involved in inflammation-triggered signaling in ECs and therefore, investigated its role within the LPS-induced signaling cascade. Human endothelial cells (HUVECs and EA.hy926 cells) responded to LPS stimulation with higher intrinsic Smyd1 expression. By transfection with expression vectors containing gene inserts encoding either intact Smyd1, a catalytically inactive Smyd1-mutant or Smyd1-specific siRNAs, we show that Smyd1 contributes to LPS-triggered expression and secretion of IL-6 in EA.hy926 cells. Further molecular analysis revealed this process to be based on two signaling pathways: Smyd1 increased the activity of NF-κB and promoted the trimethylation of lysine-4 of histone-3 (H3K4me3) within the IL-6 promoter, as shown by ChIP-RT-qPCR combined with IL-6-promoter-driven luciferase reporter gene assays. In summary, our experimental analysis revealed that LPS-binding to ECs leads to the up-regulation of Smyd1 expression to transduce the signal for IL-6 up-regulation via activation of the established NF-κB pathway as well as via epigenetic trimethylation of H3K4.

Human placental extract ameliorates methotrexate-induced hepatotoxicity in rats via regulating antioxidative and anti-inflammatory responses

Purpose

Methotrexate (MTX) induces hepatotoxicity, limiting its clinical efficacy as a widely known chemotherapy drug. In the current study, we examined the protective effect of human placenta extract (HPE) against MTX-induced liver damage in rats, as well as its ability to regulate antioxidative and anti-inflammatory liver responses.

Methods

Male rats were orally administered MTX at a daily dose of 5 mg/kg-body-weight in the presence or absence of HPE (10.08 mg/kg) for 2 weeks. We measured the biological effects of MTX and HPE on the levels of liver enzymes, lipid profile, lipid peroxidation, oxidative stress biomarkers, and cytokines [tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-10 (IL-10)]. In addition, histological examination and histopathological scoring of liver tissues were performed.

Results

MTX-treated rats showed significantly increased (p < 0.001) liver enzyme levels for aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total bilirubin, total cholesterol, and triglyceride levels. However, HPE supplementation in MTX-treated rats significantly decreased (p < 0.001) these elevated levels. HPE supplementation also significantly reduced the oxidative stress biomarker malondialdehyde (MDA), reversed the reduction in glutathione (GSH), and markedly increased the antioxidant enzyme activities of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the livers of MTX-treated rats. Furthermore, HPE supplementation significantly decreased the MTX-elevated levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-10. Histopathological examinations showed that MTX produced severe cellular damage and inflammatory lesions in liver tissues, while treatment with HPE improved hepatic histologic architecture.

Conclusion

HPE has the ability to ameliorate methotrexate-induced liver injury in rats by mechanisms that include boosting antioxidative responses and down-regulating MDA and pro-inflammatory cytokine production.

Application of Modified Mesenchymal Stem Cells Transplantation in the Treatment of Liver Injury

Acute and chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, and other liver diseases pose a serious threat to human health; however, liver transplantation is the only reliable treatment for the terminal stage of liver diseases. Previous researchers have shown that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are characterized by differentiation and paracrine effects, as well as anti-oxidative stress and immune regulation functions. When MSCs are transplanted into animals, they migrate to the injured liver tissue along with the circulation, to protect the liver and alleviate the injury through the paracrine, immune regulation and other characteristics, making mesenchymal stem cell transplantation a promising alternative therapy for liver diseases. Although the efficacy of MSCs transplantation has been confirmed in various animal models of liver injury, many researchers have also proposed various pretreatment methods to improve the efficacy of mesenchymal stem cell transplantation, but there is still lack a set of scientific methods system aimed at improving the efficacy of transplantation therapy in scientific research and clinical practice. In this review, we summarize the possible mechanisms of MSCs therapy and compare the existing methods of MSCs modification corresponding to the treatment mechanism, hoping to provide as a reference to help future researchers explore a safe and simple transplantation strategy.

F4/80+ Kupffer Cell-Derived Oncostatin M Sustains the Progression Phase of Liver Regeneration through Inhibition of TGF-β2 Pathway

The role of Kupffer cells (KCs) in liver regeneration is complicated and controversial. To investigate the distinct role of F4/80⁺ KCs at the different stages of the regeneration process, two-thirds partial hepatectomy (PHx) was performed in mice to induce physiological liver regeneration. In pre- or post-PHx, the clearance of KCs by intraperitoneal injection of the anti-F4/80 antibody (α-F4/80) was performed to study the distinct role of F4/80⁺ KCs during the regenerative process. In RNA sequencing of isolated F4/80⁺ KCs, the initiation phase was compared with the progression phase. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence staining of Ki67, HNF-4α, CD-31, and F4/80 and Western blot of the TGF-β2 pathway were performed. Depletion of F4/80⁺ KCs in pre-PHx delayed the peak of hepatocyte proliferation from 48 h to 120 h, whereas depletion in post-PHx unexpectedly led to persistent inhibition of hepatocyte proliferation, indicating the distinct role of F4/80⁺ KCs in the initiation and progression phases of liver regeneration. F4/80⁺ KC depletion in post-PHx could significantly increase TGF-β2 serum levels, while TGF-βRI partially rescued the impaired proliferation of hepatocytes. Additionally, F4/80⁺ KC depletion in post-PHx significantly lowered the expression of oncostatin M (OSM), a key downstream mediator of interleukin-6, which is required for hepatocyte proliferation during liver regeneration. In vivo, recombinant OSM (r-OSM) treatment alleviated the inhibitory effect of α-F4/80 on the regenerative progression. Collectively, F4/80⁺ KCs release OSM to inhibit TGF-β2 activation, sustaining hepatocyte proliferation by releasing a proliferative brake.

Formyl Peptide Receptor 2 Alleviates Hepatic Fibrosis in Liver Cirrhosis by Vascular Remodeling

Hexapeptide WKYMVm (Trp-Lys-Tyr-Met-Val-D-Met), a ligand of formyl peptide receptor 2, exhibits anti-inflammatory and angiogenic properties in disease models. However, the therapeutic effects of WKYMVm on hepatic fibrosis have not been evaluated to date. Therefore, we investigated whether WKYMVm exerts antifibrotic effects and induces vascular regeneration in a rat model of bile duct ligation (BDL). The antifibrotic and angiogenic effects of WKYMVm on liver regeneration in the BDL rat model were analyzed using biochemical assays, qRT-PCR, western blotting, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry. To determine the effects of WKYMVm on hepatic fibrosis and angiogenesis in vitro, we measured the expression levels of fibrotic factors in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and angiogenic factors in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). WKYMVm attenuated the expression of collagen type I (Col I) and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and significantly increased the levels of angiogenetic factors in the BDL model (p < 0.05). WKYMVm reduced fibrotic marker expression in transforming growth factor (TGF)-β-induced HSCs and promoted angiogenic activity through tube formation in 5-Fluorouracil (FU)-treated HUVECs (p < 0.05). Also, WKYMVm administration enhanced hepatocyte proliferation in BDL rats (p < 0.05). The WKYMVm alleviates hepatic fibrosis by inhibiting HSC activation and promotes hepatic regeneration via vascular remodeling. These data suggest that the WKYMVm may be a new therapeutic agent for liver fibrosis.

Upregulation of C-Reactive Protein by Placenta-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Promotes Angiogenesis in A Rat Model with Cirrhotic Liver

Background and Objectives

Liver cirrhosis is accompanied by abnormal vascular shunts. The Wnt pathway is essential for endothelial cell survival and proliferation. C-reactive protein (CRP), which is produced by hepatocyte, activates angiogenesis in cardiovascular diseases.

Methods and Results

The expression of CRP in CCl₄-injured rat livers was detected using qRT-PCR and Western blotting after transplantation of placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells (PD-MSCs) into rats. To determine whether CRP functions in hepatic regeneration by promoting angiogenesis through the Wnt pathway, we detected VEGF and β-catenin in liver tissues and BrdU and β-catenin in hepatocytes by immunofluorescence. The expression levels of CRP, Wnt pathway-related and angiogenic factors were increased in CCl₄-injured and PD-MSCs transplanted rat livers. In vitro, the expression levels of Wnt signaling and angiogenic factors were decreased in siRNA-CRP-transfected rat hepatocytes.

Conclusions

CRP upregulation by PD-MSCs participates in vascular remodeling to promote liver regeneration via the Wnt signaling pathway during hepatic failure.

Enhanced PRL-1 expression in placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells accelerates hepatic function via mitochondrial dynamics in a cirrhotic rat model

BACKGROUND

Placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells (PD-MSCs) have been highlighted as an alternative cell therapy agent that has become a next-generation stem cell treatment. Phosphatase of regenerating liver-1 (PRL-1), an immediate early gene, plays a critical role during liver regeneration. Here, we generated enhanced PRL-1 in PD-MSCs (PD-MSCs^PRL-1, PRL-1+) using lentiviral and nonviral gene delivery systems and investigated mitochondrial functions by PD-MSC^PRL-1 transplantation for hepatic functions in a rat bile duct ligation (BDL) model.

METHODS

PD-MSCs^PRL-1 were generated by lentiviral and nonviral AMAXA gene delivery systems and analyzed for their characteristics and mitochondrial metabolic functions. Liver cirrhosis was induced in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats using common BDL for 10 days. PKH67+ naïve and PD-MSCs^PRL-1 using a nonviral sysyem (2 × 10⁶ cells/animal) were intravenously administered into cirrhotic rats. The animals were sacrificed at 1, 2, 3, and 5 weeks after transplantation and engraftment of stem cells, and histopathological analysis and hepatic mitochondrial functions were performed.

RESULTS

PD-MSCs^PRL-1 were successfully generated using lentiviral and nonviral AMAXA systems and maintained characteristics similar to those of naïve cells. Compared with naïve cells, PD-MSCs^PRL-1 improved respirational metabolic states of mitochondria. In particular, mitochondria in PD-MSCs^PRL-1 generated by the nonviral AMAXA system showed a significant increase in the respirational metabolic state, including ATP production and mitochondrial biogenesis (*p < 0.05). Furthermore, transplantation of PD-MSCs^PRL-1 using a nonviral AMAXA system promoted engraftment into injured target liver tissues of a rat BDL cirrhotic model and enhanced the metabolism of mitochondria via increased mtDNA and ATP production, thereby improving therapeutic efficacy.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings will further our understanding of the therapeutic mechanism of enhanced MSCs and provide useful data for the development of next-generation MSC-based cell therapy and therapeutic strategies for regenerative medicine in liver disease.

Human placental hydrolysate promotes the long-term culture of hepatocyte-like cells derived from canine bone marrow

Long-term culture of canine artificial hepatocytes has not been established. We hypothesized that human placental hydrolysate (hPH) may support the long-term culture of differentiated hepatocyte-like cells. Canine bone marrow cells were cultured using modified hepatocyte growth medium supplemented with hPH. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and immunocytochemical analysis for albumin, qualitative RT-PCR for cytochrome P450 1A1 (CYP1A1), hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), Cytokeratin 7 (CK7), CD90, CD44, and CD34, and functional analyses of CYP450 activity and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) uptake were performed. Cultured hepatocyte-like cells were able to maintain hepatocyte characteristics, including morphology, albumin synthesis, CYP450 activity, and LDL uptake for 80 days. Thus, hPH may be a potential facilitator for the long-term culture of hepatocyte-like cells. Clinicopathologically, this culture protocol of artificial hepatocytes will contribute to liver function evaluation.

Differentiation of Cells Isolated from Afterbirth Tissues into Hepatocyte-Like Cells and Their Potential Clinical Application in Liver Regeneration

Toxic, viral and surgical injuries can pose medical indications for liver transplantation. The number of patients waiting for a liver transplant still increases, but the number of organ donors is insufficient. Hepatocyte transplantation was suggested as a promising alternative to liver transplantation, however, this method has some significant limitations. Currently, afterbirth tissues seem to be an interesting source of cells for the regenerative medicine, because of their unique biological and immunological properties. It has been proven in experimental animal models, that the native stem cells, and to a greater extent, hepatocyte-like cells derived from them and transplanted, can accelerate regenerative processes and restore organ functioning. The effective protocol for obtaining functional mature hepatocytes in vitro is still not defined, but some studies resulted in obtaining functionally active hepatocyte-like cells. In this review, we focused on human stem cells isolated from placenta and umbilical cord, as potent precursors of hepatocyte-like cells for regenerative medicine. We summarized the results of preclinical and clinical studies dealing with the introduction of epithelial and mesenchymal stem cells of the afterbirth origin to the liver failure therapy. It was concluded that the use of native afterbirth epithelial and mesenchymal cells in the treatment of liver failure could support liver function and regeneration. This effect would be enhanced by the use of hepatocyte-like cells obtained from placental and/or umbilical stem cells.

Placenta-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Restore the Ovary Function in an Ovariectomized Rat Model via an Antioxidant Effect

Oxidative stress is one of the major etiologies of ovarian dysfunction, including premature ovarian failure (POF). Previous reports have demonstrated the therapeutic effects of human placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells (PD-MSCs) in an ovariectomized rat model (OVX). However, their therapeutic mechanism in oxidative stress has not been reported. Therefore, we investigated to profile the exosome of serum and demonstrate the therapeutic effect of PD-MSCs transplantation for the ovary function. We established an OVX model by ovariectomy and PD-MSCs transplantation was conducted by intravenous injection. Additionally, various factors in the exosome were profiled by LC-MS analysis. As a result, the transplanted PD-MSCs were engrafted into the ovary and the existence of antioxidant factors in the exosome. A decreased expression of oxidative stress markers and increased expression of antioxidant markers were shown in the transplantation (Tx) in comparison to the non-transplantation group (NTx) (* p < 0.05). The apoptosis factors were decreased, and ovary function was improved in Tx in comparison to NTx (* p < 0.05). These results suggest that transplanted PD-MSCs restore the ovarian function in an OVX model via upregulated antioxidant factors. These findings offer new insights for further understanding of stem cell therapy for reproductive systems.

Effects of Human Placenta Extract (Laennec) on Ligament Healing in a Rodent Model

Rich in bioactive substances such as amino acids and peptides, Laennec (human placenta hydrolysate) has been widely used to control various types of musculoskeletal pain. However, the effects of Laennec on tendon and ligament injuries are not clearly understood. In the present study, Laennec was tested to identify its in vivo effects on ligament injury in an animal model and its in vitro effects on tendon-derived fibrocytes. A total of 99 Sprague Dawley rats were divided into the negative control (normal) group (n = 11) and the ligament injury group (n = 88). The ligament injury group was subdivided into normal saline-treated group, Laennec-treated group, polydeoxyribonucleotide-treated group, and 20% dextrose-treated group. Ligaments were collected at 1 week and 4 weeks after treatment. Histologic and biomechanical properties were analyzed. In vitro effects of Laennec and polydeoxyribonucleotide on fibrocytes were also analyzed. Although all other treatment groups showed increased inflammatory cells, the Laennec-treated group maintained cell counts and activated macrophage levels that were similar to the normal group. Unlike the saline-treated group and dextrose-treated group, the Laennec-treated group had low levels of degenerative changes at 4 weeks after treatment. Supportively, in vitro results showed that the Laennec-treated group had increased collagen type I, scleraxis (Scx) and tenomodulin (Tnmd) expression (p < 0.05). Our study demonstrates that Laennec treatment enhances wound healing of damaged ligament by suppressing immune responses and reducing degenerative changes of damaged ligament. In addition, we found that Laennec induces the gene expression of type I collagen, Scx and Tnmd in fibrocytes, suggesting that Laennec may facilitate regeneration of damaged ligaments. Therefore, we expect that Laennec can be a useful drug to treat injured ligament.

Anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties of helicid protect against CCl4 induced acute liver injury in mice

Acute liver injury can be caused by chemicals and can lead to liver failure. We investigated the protective effect of helicid (HEL) on acute liver injury caused by CCl₄ in mice. We found that ALT and AST levels as well as hepatic pathological damage in mice treated with CCl₄ was increased significantly, while the effects were decreased by HEL treatment. HEL treatment increased the activity of T-SOD, GSH and CAT and reduced the level of MDA in CCl₄ treated mice. HEL improved the histopathology of liver caused by CCl₄. HEL also reduced TNF-α, IL-1β and IL- 6 activity caused by CCl₄. We investigated the phosphorylation of p65 and IκB protein and found that HEL can alleviate liver damage via the NF-κB signaling pathway. Our findings indicate that HEL protects against acute liver injury induced by CCl₄. The protective effect of HEL appears to be due to its antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties through the NF-κB signaling pathway.

Alterations in IL-6/STAT3 Signaling by Korean Mistletoe Lectin Regulate the Self-Renewal Activity of Placenta-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells

Korean mistletoe (Viscum album L. var. coloratum) lectin (VCA) is known as an anticancer drug. However, it is not clear whether VCA affects the self-renewal activity of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Therefore, the objectives of this study were to analyze the effect of VCA on the proliferation of MSCs and expression of stemness markers. We also evaluated the usefulness of placenta-derived MSCs (PD-MSCs) as a screening tool. VCA was stably administered to MSCs, and analyzed self-renewal activities. The effect of IL-6 signaling on MSC proliferation was explored by quantitative methylation-specific PCR (qMSP) and western blot analysis. Compared with the control condition, low concentrations of VCA (10 pg/mL) induced an increase in the self-renewal activity of MSCs. Interestingly, a low concentration of VCA promoted IL-6 signaling in PD-MSCs through altered IL-6/STAT3 gene methylation. Furthermore, inhibition of IL-6 expression in PD-MSCs using an anti-IL-6 antibody caused a decrease in their self-renewal activity through IL-6/STAT3 signaling by altering IL-6/STAT3 gene methylation. These findings provide helpful data for understanding the mechanism of MSC self-renewal via VCA and show that VCA may be useful as a functional natural product for developing efficient therapies using placenta-derived stem cells.

Dynamic Regulation of miRNA Expression by Functionally Enhanced Placental Mesenchymal Stem Cells PromotesHepatic Regeneration in a Rat Model with Bile Duct Ligation

Placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells (PD-MSCs) were highlighted as therapeutic sources in several degenerative diseases. Recently, microRNAs (miRNAs)were found to mediate one of the therapeutic mechanisms of PD-MSCs in regenerative medicine. To enhance the therapeutic effects of PD-MSCs, we established functionally enhanced PD-MSCs with phosphatase of regenerating liver-1 overexpression (PRL-1(+)). However, the profile and functions of miRNAs induced by PRL-1(+) PD-MSCs in a rat model with hepatic failure prepared by bile duct ligation (BDL) remained unclear. Hence, the objectives of the present study were to analyze the expression of miRNAs and investigate their therapeutic mechanisms for hepatic regeneration via PRL-1(+) in a rat model with BDL. We selected candidate miRNAs based on microarray analysis. Under hypoxic conditions, compared with migrated naïve PD-MSCs, migrated PRL-1(+) PD-MSCs showed improved integrin-dependent migration abilitythrough Ras homolog (RHO) family-targeted miRNA expression (e.g., hsa-miR-30a-5p, 340-5p, and 146a-3p). Moreover, rno-miR-30a-5p and 340-5p regulated engraftment into injured rat liver by transplantedPRL-1(+) PD-MSCs through the integrin family. Additionally, an increase inplatelet-derived growth factor receptor A (PDGFRA) by suppressing rno-miR-27a-3p improved vascular structure in rat liver tissues after PRL-1(+) PD-MSC transplantation. Furthermore, decreased rno-miR-122-5p was significantly correlated with increased proliferation of hepatocytes in liver tissues by PRL-1(+) PD-MSCs byactivating the interleukin-6 (IL-6) signaling pathway through the repression of rno-miR-21-5p. Taken together, these findings improve the understandingof therapeutic mechanisms based on miRNA-mediated stem-cell therapy in liver diseases.

Human Placenta Hydrolysate Promotes Liver Regeneration via Activation of the Cytokine/Growth Factor-Mediated Pathway and Anti-oxidative Effect

Liver regeneration is a very complex process and is regulated by several cytokines and growth factors. It is also known that liver transplantation and the regeneration process cause massive oxidative stress, which interferes with liver regeneration. The placenta is known to contain various physiologically active ingredients such as cytokines, growth factors, and amino acids. In particular, human placenta hydrolysate (hPH) has been found to contain many amino acids. Most of the growth factors found in the placenta are known to be closely related to liver regeneration. Therefore, in this study, we investigated whether hPH is effective in promoting liver regeneration in rats undergoing partial hepatectomy. We confirmed that cell proliferation was significantly increased in HepG2 and human primary cells. Hepatocyte proliferation was also promoted in partial hepatectomized rats by hPH treatment. hPH increased liver regeneration rate, double nucleic cell ratio, mitotic cell ratio, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), and K_i-67 positive cells in vivo as well as interleukin (IL)-6, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). Moreover, Kupffer cells secreting IL-6 and TNF-α were activated by hPH treatment. In addition, hPH reduced thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARs) and significantly increased glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Taken together, these results suggest that hPH promotes liver regeneration by activating cytokines and growth factors associated with liver regeneration and eliminating oxidative stress.

Subcutaneous Inoculation of Echinococcus multilocularis Induces Delayed Regeneration after Partial Hepatectomy

Alveolar echinococcosis (AE) is caused by the larval stage of echinococcus multilocularis (E. multilocularis), and hepatectomy is the main modality in hepatic AE patients. Liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy (PHx) in such patients is challenging, and further investigation is needed. Thus far, knowledge regarding the possible impact of E. multilocularis on liver regeneration after PHx is limited. Herein, a subcutaneous infection model of E. multilocularis was developed in C57 BL/6 mice, and after 3 months, PHx was performed. Plasma and liver samples were harvested under inhalational isofluorane (2%) anaesthesia at designated post-PHx time points (0, 24, 48, 96 and 168 h). The parameters included the future remnant liver/body weight ratio (FLR/BW), liver function tests (AST and ALT) and related cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, Factor V, HMGB1, TGF-β, TSP-1, and TLR4) and proteins (MyD88 and STAT3). To assess the proliferation intensity of hepatocytes, BrdU, Ki67 and PAS staining were carried out in regenerated liver tissue. The FLR/BW in the infected group from 48 h after surgery was lower than that in the control group. The BrdU positive hepatocyte proportions reached their peak at 48 h in the control group and 96 h in the infected group and then gradually decreased. During the first 48 h after surgery, both the AST and ALT levels in the infected group were lower; however, these levels were altered from 96 h after surgery. In the infected group, the concentrations and mRNA expression levels of the pre-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6 demonstrated a delayed peak. Moreover, post-operatively, the TGF-β and TSP-1 levels showed high levels in the infected group at each different time-point compared to those in the control group; however, high levels of TGF-β were observed at 96 h in the control group. The MyD88 and STAT3 protein expression levels in the infected group were markedly higher than those in the control group 96 h after surgery. Delayed liver regeneration after PHx was observed in the C57 BL/6 mice with the subcutaneous infection of E. multilocularis in the current study. This phenomenon could be partially explained by the alteration in the pro-inflammatory cytokines in the immunotolerant milieu induced by chronic E. multilocularis infection.

Human chorionic plate-derived mesenchymal stem cells transplantation restores ovarian function in a chemotherapy-induced mouse model of premature ovarian failure

Background

Previous studies have reported that transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from many human tissues could ameliorate ovarian dysfunction. However, no study has revealed the therapeutic efficiency of MSCs derived from the chorionic plate (CP-MSCs) for premature ovarian failure (POF).

Methods

We investigated the restorative effects of CP-MSCs on cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced POF. The POF mouse models were established via intraperitoneal injection of 50 mg/kg CTX into female mice for 15 consecutive days. After that, CP-MSCs were intravenously transplanted into the mice once a week for 4 weeks. The serum estradiol (E2) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels in the mouse models were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) before and after treatment. Ovarian function was evaluated through counting the follicles, estrous cycles, and oocytes.

Results

CP-MSC transplantation restored the serum hormone level and ovarian function of the mice in the mouse model of POF induced by CTX. The levels of serum E2 and FSH in the POF model group was 232.33 ± 17.16 pg/mL and 4.48 ± 0.29 mIU/mL, respectively, after 6 weeks of treatment, which were similar to the values in the wild-type (WT) group. The superovulation demonstrated that ovarian function was significantly improved compared with nontreated POF model mice. The CP-MSC transplantation could restore CTX-induced ovarian dysfunction.

Conclusions

Our results offer a potential application for human CP-MSCs in POF treatment.

Interleukin-6: A promising cytokine to support liver regeneration and adaptive immunity in liver pathologies

Liver pathologies (fibrosis, cirrhosis, alcoholic, non-alcoholic diseases and hepatocellular carcinoma) represent one of the most common causes of death worldwide. A number of genetic and environmental factors contribute to the development of liver diseases. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a pleiotropic cytokine, exerting variety of effects on inflammation, liver regeneration, and defence against infections by regulating adaptive immunity. Due to its high abundance in inflammatory settings, IL-6 is often viewed as a detrimental cytokine. However, accumulating evidence supports the view that IL-6 has a beneficial impact in numerous liver pathologies, due to its roles in liver regeneration and in promoting an anti-inflammatory response in certain conditions. IL-6 promotes proliferation, angiogenesis and metabolism, and downregulates apoptosis and oxidative stress; together these functions are critical for mediating hepatoprotection. IL-6 is also an important regulator of adaptive immunity where it induces T cell differentiation and regulates autoimmunity. It can augment antiviral adaptive immune responses and mitigate exhaustion of T cells during chronic infection. This review focuses on studies that present IL-6 as a key factor in regulating liver regeneration and in supporting effector immune functions and suggests that these functions of IL-6 can be exploited in treatment strategies for liver pathologies.

Genome-wide analysis of DNA methylation in five tissues of sika deer (Cervus nippon)

DNA methylation plays an important role in regulating gene expression during tissue development and differentiation in eukaryotes. In contrast to domestic animals, epigenetic studies have been seldom conducted in wild animals. In the present study, we conducted the genome-wide profiling of DNA methylation for five tissues of sika deer using the fluorescence-labeled methylation-sensitive amplified polymorphism (F-MSAP) technique. Overall, a total of 104,131 fragments were amplified including 41,951 methylated fragments using 32 pairs of selected primers. The average incidence of DNA methylation was approximately 38.18% in muscle, 40.32% in heart, 41.86% in liver, 41.20% in lung, and 41.68% in kidney, respectively. Also, the significant differences of the DNA methylation levels were found between the different tissue types (P<0.05), which indicates that the differences of genome-wide DNA methylation levels may be related to gene expression during tissue development and differentiation. In addition, 37 tissue-specific differentially methylated regions (T-DMRs) were identified and recovered by MSAP in five tissues, and were further confirmed by Southern blot analysis. Our study presents the first look at the T-DMRs in sika deer and represents an initial step towards understanding of epigenetic regulatory mechanism underlying tissue development and differentiation in sika deer.

Human Chorionic Plate-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Restore Hepatic Lipid Metabolism in a Rat Model of Bile Duct Ligation

In cholestatic liver diseases, impaired bile excretion disrupts lipid homeostasis. We investigated changes of lipid metabolism, including mitochondrial β-oxidation, in a rat model of bile duct ligation (BDL) in which chorionic plate-derived mesenchymal stem cells (CP-MSCs) were transplanted. Serum cholesterol level, which was elevated after BDL, was significantly decreased following CP-MSC transplantation. The expression levels of genes involved in intracellular lipid uptake, including long-chain fatty acyl-CoA synthetases and fatty acid transport proteins, were decreased in rats after BDL; however, they were not significantly changed by subsequent CP-MSC transplantation. Carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1A (CPT1A), a rate-limiting enzyme in mitochondrial β-oxidation, was upregulated after BDL and then was downregulated after CP-MSC transplantation. CPT1A expression was changed via microRNA-33—a posttranscriptional regulator of CPT1A—in a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α-independent manner. Cellular adenosine triphosphate production—an indicator of mitochondrial function—was reduced after BDL and was restored by CP-MSC transplantation. Expression levels of heme oxygenases also were significantly affected following BDL and CP-MSC transplantation. Lipid metabolism is altered in response to chronic cholestatic liver injury and can be restored by CP-MSC transplantation. Our study findings support the therapeutic potential of CP-MSCs in cholestatic liver diseases and help in understanding the fundamental mechanisms by which CP-MSCs affect energy metabolism.

Quercetin prevents alcohol-induced liver injury through targeting of PI3K/Akt/nuclear factor-κB and STAT3 signaling pathway

Quercetin is a type of flavonoid compound, which has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, capable of treating a variety of diseases including neurodegenerative diseases, tumors, diabetes and obesity. The present study selected alcohol-induced liver injury model mice and aimed at studying the protective role of quercetin in preventing alcohol-induced liver injury. In alcohol-induced liver injury mice treated with quercetin, it was demonstrated that levels of aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, total bilirubin and triglyceride were reduced. In addition to this, the activities of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase were increased, malondialdehyde was inhibited, and interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-10 and inducible nitric oxide synthase were suppressed. Quercetin additionally suppressed the protein expression levels of B-cell lymphoma (Bcl)-2, Bcl-2 associated X apoptosis regulator, Caspase-3, poly ADP-ribose polymerase, and signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 3 phosphorylation, nuclear factor (NF)-κB and protein kinase B (Akt) phosphorylation levels in alcohol-induced liver injured mice. These results suggested that the protective role of quercetin prevents alcohol-induced liver injury through the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/Akt/NF-κB and STAT3 pathway.

[Effect of pregnant rat adipose-derived stem cells on repair of acute liver injury]

Objective

To assess the effect of pregnant rat adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) on repair of acute liver injury.

Methods

ADSCs were isolated from 18-week pregnant Sprague Dawley rats and were identified by flow cytometry. Twenty Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into groups A, B, C, and D ( n=5); rats in group A were not treated as normal controls; rats in groups B, C, and D were injected intraperitoneally with CCl ₄ to establish the acute liver injury model. At 2 hours after modeling, DPBS, 0.1 mL normal rat ADSCs (2×10 ⁶cells/mL), and pregnant rat ADSCs (2×10 ⁶cells/mL) were injected into the spleen in groups A, C, and D respectively; rats in group B was not treated. After 7 days, total bilirubin (TBIL), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartic acid transaminase (AST), albumin (ALB), and total protein (TP) in serum were measured. The liver tissue sections were stained with HE. The expressions of Ki67, alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), and ALB were measured by immunohistochemistry.

Results

The serum levels of TBIL, ALT, and AST in group B were significantly higher than those in groups A, C, and D ( P<0.05), but ALB and TP were significantly lower than those in groups A, C, and D ( P<0.05). The levels of TBIL, ALT, and AST were significantly higher in groups C and D than group A, and in group C than group D ( P<0.05). There was no significant difference in serum levels of ALB among groups A, C, and D ( P>0.05). The serum level of TP in groups C and D was significantly lower than that in group A ( P<0.05), but no significant difference was found between group C and group D ( P>0.05). HE staining showed that the liver tissue of group A had clear structure; the cells arranged neatly with uniform size. The hepatocytes in group B showed obvious edema, disorderly arrangement, dot necrosis in liver lobules, and diffuse infiltration of inflammatory cells. In groups C and D, the inflammation and hepatocellular necrosis were obviously reduced when compared with group B, and the number of vacuoles caused by dilation of mitochondria and rough endoplasmic reticulum was decreased; especially in group D, improvement of liver injury was more effective. The Ki67 positive cell rate was significantly higher in groups C and D than groups A and B ( P<0.05), in group B than group A ( P<0.05), and in group D than group C ( P<0.05). There was no expression of AFP in groups A and B, but positive expression was observed in groups C and D, and AFP positive cell rate of group D was significantly higher than that of group C ( t=3.006, P=0.017). ALB expression was significantly higher in groups C and D than groups A and B ( P<0.05), and in group D than group C ( P<0.05).

Conclusion

Pregnant rat ADSCs could promote repair of liver injury induced by CCl ₄.

Epigenetic modifications of interleukin-6 in synovial fibroblasts from osteoarthritis patients

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common degenerative disease of the synovial joint. The synovial membrane is responsible for the inflammatory reaction leading to the secretion of macrophage-derived pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-6. Suppressing IL-6 over-expression in synovial fibroblasts (SF) is a promising method to prevent OA development and progression, in which the prerequisite is the elucidation of the molecular mechanisms underlying IL-6 over-expression in SF. Currently, there are few reports concerning epigenetic modifications in IL-6 in OA SF. In the present study, we attempted to investigate this phenomenon. SF over-expressing IL-6 was collected from OA patients. DNA hypomethylation and histone hyperacetylation were observed in the IL-6 promoter regions in OA SF compared with normal SF. No differences in the status of H3K9 di-methylation, H3K27 tri-methylation and H3K4 tri-methylation were observed in the IL-6 promoter regions between normal and OA SF. DNA (cytosine-5-)-methyltransferase 3 alpha (Dnmt3a) overexpression and anacardic acid (histone acetyltransferase inhibitor) treatment increased DNA methylation and decreased histone acetylation in the IL-6 promoter, and IL-6 over-expression in OA SF was suppressed. These observations provide deeper insight into the pathogenesis of OA and can be used to design new drugs and develop new therapeutic methods to treat OA.

Serum translationally controlled tumor protein is involved in rat liver regeneration after hepatectomy

AIM

The translationally controlled tumor protein (TCTP) has been reported to promote progression of many physiological processes. However, whether TCTP is involved in liver regeneration has been rarely studied. This study aimed to investigate the potential role of serum TCTP in liver regeneration after two-thirds partial hepatectomy.

METHODS

The synthesis rate and accumulated expression of TCTP was assessed by phosphor imaging and Western blot analysis, respectively. The mRNA expression of tctp was analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR. The effect of serum TCTP on hepatocyte proliferation was investigated by bromodeoxyuridine incorporation, liver/body weight ratio, albumin concentration, and histological examination of liver following treatment of rat with anti-TCTP antibody or prokaryotic TCTP protein before hepatectomy. The MTT assay was used to examine effect of TCTP on hepatocyte proliferation in vitro.

RESULTS

The results showed that the expression of intracellular and serum TCTP protein was significantly increased in rats after two-thirds partial hepatectomy. In vivo bromodeoxyuridine labeling assay suggested that treatment with anti-TCTP antibody before hepatectomy significantly decreased hepatocyte proliferation and liver/body weight ratio. The prokaryotic TCTP had a potential promoting effect on hepatocyte proliferation both in vivo and in vitro, although prokaryotic TCTP given to rats prior to hepatectomy did not increase the proliferation ratio or liver/body weight ratio. Furthermore, anti-TCTP antibody pretreatment decreased the expression of cyclin E, cdk2, and interleukin-6 in rat liver.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest serum TCTP is involved in rat liver regeneration through promoting hepatocyte proliferation.

MicroRNA-203 promotes liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy in cirrhotic rats

BACKGROUND

Liver resection or partial hepatectomy (PH) is still the most commonly used therapeutic option for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) at present. However, the impaired regenerative ability induced by the accompanied liver cirrhosis is an important risk factor of posthepatectomy liver failure, and posthepatectomy liver failure is a feared complication that accounts for up to 75% of mortality after extensive liver resection. MicroRNA(miR)-203 is a tumor suppressor of HCC and may act as a positive intermediary in A20-enhanced interleukin (IL-6)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pro-proliferative signals, which may promote liver regeneration after PH. However, its direct pro-proliferative effect on cirrhotic liver after hepatectomy is unknown.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Liver cirrhosis was induced by intraperitoneal injection of 50% CCl4-olive oil solution in adult male Wistar rat. Rats with liver cirrhosis received portal vein injection of physiological saline, miR-203 lentivirus, or control empty lentivirus, and then 70% PH was performed under ether anesthesia 7 d later. Liver samples were harvested at 0, 24, 36, and 72 h after 70% PH. Hepatic expressions of cyclin D1 and Ki67 were checked to evaluate the liver regenerative ability. Hepatic expressions of IL-6, suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3), and phospho-STAT3 were also tested to clarify the mechanisms of miR-203 in liver regeneration.

RESULTS

The regeneration of miR-203 overexpression cirrhotic liver after 70% PH was enhanced and peaked at 24 and 36 h after 70% PH. The cyclin D1-positive liver cells/high-power field (HPF) in miR-203 overexpression liver markedly increased at 24 and 36 h after 70% PH compared with 0-h samples. When comparing with the control groups, cyclin D1-positive liver cells/HPF in miR-203 overexpression liver were also significantly increased at 24 and 36 h after 70% PH. A similar result of the Ki67-positive liver cells/HPF was achieved at 36 h after 70% PH. The hepatic expression of IL-6 showed a rising tendency after 70% PH, and the levels of IL-6 are significantly higher in miR-203 overexpression livers. Hepatic expression of SOCS3 was negatively expressed with hepatic miR-203 expression level, and the reduced expression of SOCS3 facilitated the phosphorylation of STAT3.

CONCLUSIONS

By targeting SOCS3 and then enhancing proliferating IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway, hepatic overexpression of miR-203 can facilitate the initiation of liver regeneration and enhance the potency of liver regeneration after 70% PH in cirrhotic rat. Together with the tumor suppressive effect on HCC, miR-203 would be an ideal candidate for promoting liver regeneration in HCC patients undergoing liver resection without the risk of tumorigenesis or cancer recurrence.

Safety and therapeutic effect of mesenchymal stem cell infusion on moderate to severe ulcerative colitis

One of the primary targets of the clinical treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC) is to repair the damaged colonic mucosa. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have therapeutic potential in regenerative medicine due to their differentiation capacity and their secretion of numerous bioactive molecules. The present study describes a clinical trial (trial registration no. NCT01221428) investigating the safety and therapeutic effect of MSCs derived from human umbilical cord on moderate to severe UC. Thirty-four patients with UC were included in group I and treated with MSC infusion in addition to the base treatment, and thirty-six patients were in group II and treated with normal saline in addition to the base treatment. One month after therapy, 30/36 patients in group I showed good response, and diffuse and deep ulcer formation and severe inflammatory mucosa were improved markedly. During the follow up, the median Mayo score and histology score in group I were decreased while IBDQ scores were significantly improved compared with before treatment and group II (P<0.05). Compared with group II, there were no evident adverse reactions after MSC infusion in any of the patients in group I, and no chronic side effects or lingering effects appeared during the follow-up period. In conclusion, MSC infusion might be a useful and safe therapy for treating UC.

Hypomethylation of Interleukin-6 Promoter is Associated with the Risk of Coronary Heart Disease

BACKGROUND

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is implicated in the pathogenesis of coronary heart disease (CHD), and IL-6 expression has associated with reduced DNA methylation of its gene promoter. However, there are no data on IL-6 promoter methylation and the risk of CHD.

OBJECTIVE

To examine whether IL-6 promoter methylation measured in blood leukocyte DNA is associated with CHD risk.

METHODS

A total of 212 cases with CHD and 218 controls were enrolled. Methylation at two CpG sites in IL-6 promoter was measured by bisulfite pyrosequencing, and the mean IL-6 methylation was calculated by averaging the methylation measures of the two CpGs.

RESULTS

Mean methylation level in IL-6 promoter in CHD cases was significantly lower than that in controls (p = 0.023). Logistic regression analysis showed that IL-6 methylation was inversely associated with the risk of CHD. The odds ratios (ORs) of CHD for subjects in the second and first (lowest) tertile of IL-6 methylation were 1.87 (95% CI = 1.10‑3.20) and 2.01 (95% CI = 1.19-3.38) (ptrend = 0.013), respectively, compared to subjects in the third (highest) tertile. The IL-6 hypomethylation-related risk estimates tended to be stronger for acute myocardial infarction (ptrend = 0.006). CpG position-specific analysis showed that hypomethylation of position 1 conferred a more pronounced increase in CHD risk than that of position 2.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that DNA hypomethylation of IL-6 promoter is associated with the increased risk for CHD, especially for acute myocardial infarction. The two distinct CpGs in IL-6 may contribute differently to the development of CHD.

Association of interleukin-6 methylation in leukocyte DNA with serum level and the risk of ischemic heart disease

Background Interleukin-6 (IL-6), a multifunctional cytokine, plays an important role in the development of ischemic heart disease (IHD), and DNA hypomethylation of 2 CpGs, located downstream in the proximity of the IL-6 gene promoter, has been associated with risk factor for IHD. This study was to examine the association of blood leukocyte DNA methylation of the 2 CpGs in IL-6 with the risk of IHD and the serum IL-6 level. Methods IL-6 methylation levels of 582 cases and 673 controls were measured using the bisulfite pyrosequencing technology. Serum level of IL-6 was measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results The IL-6 methylation was significantly lower in IHD cases than in the controls, irrespective of CpG site. After multivariate adjustment, lower (< median) average IL-6 methylation was associated with an increased risk of IHD (OR 1.57, 95% CI 1.22-2.02, p < 0.001). Average IL-6 methylation level was inversely associated with serum IL-6 level (β = -1.02 pg/mL per increase in IL-6 methylation, p = 0.002) among IHD cases. This significant relationship was not observed among controls. Conclusions DNA hypomethylation of IL-6 gene measured in blood leukocytes was associated with increased risk of IHD. IL-6 demethylation may upregulate its expression, whereby exerting its risk effect on the development of IHD.

Therapeutic Effects of Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Patients with Chronic Liver Diseases: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Based on their ability to differentiate into multiple cell types including hepatocytes, the transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has been suggested as an effective therapy for chronic liver diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety, efficacy and therapeutic effects of MSCs in patients with chronic liver disease through a literature-based examination. We performed a systematic review (SR) and meta-analysis (MA) of the literature using the Ovid-MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane Library databases (up to November 2014) to identify clinical studies in which patients with liver diseases were treated with MSC therapy. Of the 568 studies identified by the initial literature search, we analyzed 14 studies and 448 patients based on our selection criteria. None of the studies reported the occurrence of statistically significant adverse events, side effects or complications. The majority of the analyzed studies showed improvements in liver function, ascites and encephalopathy. In particular, an MA showed that MSC therapy improved the total bilirubin level, the serum albumin level and the Model for End-stage Liver Disease (MELD) score after MSC treatment. Based on these results, MSC transplantation is considered to be safe for the treatment of chronic liver disease. However, although MSCs are potential therapeutic agents that may improve liver function, in order to obtain meaningful insights into their clinical efficacy, further robust clinical studies must be conducted to evaluate the clinical outcomes, such as histological improvement, increased survival and reduced liver-related complications, in patients with chronic liver disease.