Physiological actions and clinical applications of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta)

The role of transforming growth factor β in cervical carcinogenesis

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is involved in virtually all cases of cervical cancer. However, HPV alone is not sufficient to cause malignant development. The effects of chronic inflammation and the interaction of immune components with the microenvironment infected with the high-risk HPV type (HR) may contribute to cancer development. Transforming growth factor β (TGFB) appears to play an important role in cervical carcinogenesis. Protein and mRNA levels of this cytokine gradually increase as normal tissue develops into malignant tissue and are closely related to the severity of HPV infection. At the onset of infection, TGFB can inhibit the proliferation of infected cells and viral amplification by inhibiting cell growth and downregulating the transcriptional activity of the long control region (LCR) of HPV, thereby reducing the expression of early genes. When infected cells progress to a malignant phenotype, the response to the cell growth inhibitory effect of TGFB1 is lost and the suppression of E6 and E7 expression decreases. Subsequently, TGFB1 expression is upregulated by high levels of E6 and E7 oncoproteins, leading to an increase in TGFB1 in the tumor microenvironment, where this molecule promotes epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), cell motility, angiogenesis, and immunosuppression. This interaction between HPV oncoproteins and TGFB1 is an important mechanism promoting the development and progression of cervical cancer.

Circulating inflammatory proteins and abdominal aortic aneurysm: A two-sample Mendelian randomization and colocalization analyses

OBJECTIVES

Inflammatory proteins are implicated in the progression of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA); however, it remains debated whether they are causal or consequential. This study aimed to assess the influence of circulating inflammatory proteins on AAA via two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) and colocalization analysis.

METHODS

Summary data on 91 circulating inflammatory protein levels were extracted from a comprehensive protein quantitative trait loci (pQTL) study involving 14,824 individuals. Genetic associations with AAA were derived from the FinnGen study (3,869 cases and 381,977 controls). MR analysis was conducted to assess the relationships between proteins and AAA risk. Colocalization analysis was employed to explore potential shared causal variants between identified proteins and AAA.

RESULTS

Using a two-sample bidirectional MR study, our findings suggested that genetically predicted elevated levels of TGFB1 (OR = 1.21, P = 0.003), SIRT2 (OR = 1.196, P = 0.031) and TNFSF14 (OR = 1.129, P = 0.034) were linked to an increased risk of AAA. Conversely, genetically predicted higher levels of CD40 (OR = 0.912, P = 0.049), IL2RB (OR = 0.839, P = 0.028) and KITLG (OR = 0.827, P = 0.008) were associated with a decreased risk of AAA. Colocalization analyses supported the association of TGFB1 and SIRT2 levels with AAA risk.

CONCLUSIONS

The proteome-wide MR and colocalization study identified TGFB1 and SIRT2 as being associated with the risk of AAA, warranting further investigation as potential therapeutic targets.

Baeckea frutescens L. Promotes wound healing by upregulating expression of TGF-β, IL-1 β, VEGF and MMP-2

Baeckea frutescens L. has been traditionally used for treating snakebites and is known to possess antifebrile and hemostatic properties. These properties are closely related to wound healing. This study aimed to evaluate the wound healing properties of B. frutescens leaves extract (BFLE) in vitro and in vivo. The in vitro study focused on proliferation, migration, and expression of TGF-β, IL-1β, VEGF, and MMP-2 genes and proteins. The in vivo study included excisional wound healing, histology, and tensile strength studies. The ethanolic extract of B. frutescens (BFLE) was tested for its effects on proliferation and migration using keratinocytes (HaCaT) and fibroblasts (BJ) cells. Gene and protein expression related to wound healing were analyzed using real-time PCR and Western blot assays. The wound healing properties of BFLE were evaluated in vivo using Wistar albino rats, focusing on excisional wound healing, histology, and tensile strength studies. The BFLE displayed significant proliferative and migratory effects on keratinocytes and fibroblasts cells, while upregulating the expression of TGF-β, IL-1β, VEGF, and MMP-2 genes and proteins. BFLE also exhibited significant wound healing effects on Wistar albino rats' excisional wounds and improved the overall tensile strength. The results suggest that BFLE has strong wound healing properties, as demonstrated by its ability to increase keratinocytes and fibroblasts proliferation and migration, upregulate genes and proteins involved in the wound healing process, and improve wound healing rates and tensile strength. The findings of this study provide important insights into the potential use of B. frutescens as a natural wound healing agent.

Targeting transforming growth factor beta signaling in metastatic osteosarcoma

Osteosarcoma is a rare type of bone cancer, and half of the cases affect children and adolescents younger than 20 years of age. Despite intensive efforts to improve both chemotherapeutics and surgical management, the clinical outcome for metastatic osteosarcoma remains poor. Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) is one of the most abundant growth factors in bones. The TGF-β signaling pathway has complex and contradictory roles in the pathogenesis of human cancers. TGF-β is primarily a tumor suppressor that inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis of premalignant epithelial cells. In the later stages of cancer progression, however, TGF-β functions as a metastasis promoter by promoting tumor growth, inducing epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), blocking antitumor immune responses, increasing tumor-associated fibrosis, and enhancing angiogenesis. In contrast with the dual effects of TGF-β on carcinoma (epithelial origin) progression, TGF-β seems to mainly have a pro-tumoral effect on sarcomas including osteosarcoma (mesenchymal origin). Many drugs that target TGF-β signaling have been developed: neutralizing antibodies that prevent TGF-β binding to receptor complexes; ligand trap employing recombinant Fc-fusion proteins containing the soluble ectodomain of either type II (TβRII) or the type III receptor ((TβRIII), preventing TGF-β from binding to its receptors; antisense nucleotides that reduce TGF-β expression at the transcriptional/translational level; small molecule inhibitors of serine/threonine kinases of the type I receptor (TβRI) preventing downstream signaling; and vaccines that contain cell lines transfected with TβRII antisense genes, or target furin convertase, resulting in reduced TGF-β signaling. TGF-β antagonists have been shown to have effects on osteosarcoma in vitro and in vivo. One of the small molecule TβRI inhibitors, Vactosertib, is currently undergoing a phase 1/2 clinical trial to evaluate its effect on osteosarcoma. Several phase 1/2/3 clinical trials have shown TGF-β antagonists are safe and well tolerated. For instance, Luspatercept, a TGF-β ligand trap, has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of anemia associated with myeloid dysplastic syndrome (MDS) with ring sideroblasts/mutated SF3B1 with acceptable safety. Clinical trials evaluating the long-term safety of Luspatercept are in process.

Recent progress in the manipulation of biochemical and biophysical cues for engineering functional tissues

Tissue engineering (TE) is currently considered a cutting-edge discipline that offers the potential for developing treatments for health conditions that negatively affect the quality of life. This interdisciplinary field typically involves the combination of cells, scaffolds, and appropriate induction factors for the regeneration and repair of damaged tissue. Cell fate decisions, such as survival, proliferation, or differentiation, critically depend on various biochemical and biophysical factors provided by the extracellular environment during developmental, physiological, and pathological processes. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms of action of these factors is critical to accurately mimic the complex architecture of the extracellular environment of living tissues and improve the efficiency of TE approaches. In this review, we recapitulate the effects that biochemical and biophysical induction factors have on various aspects of cell fate. While the role of biochemical factors, such as growth factors, small molecules, extracellular matrix (ECM) components, and cytokines, has been extensively studied in the context of TE applications, it is only recently that we have begun to understand the effects of biophysical signals such as surface topography, mechanical, and electrical signals. These biophysical cues could provide a more robust set of stimuli to manipulate cell signaling pathways during the formation of the engineered tissue. Furthermore, the simultaneous application of different types of signals appears to elicit synergistic responses that are likely to improve functional outcomes, which could help translate results into successful clinical therapies in the future.

Inhibitors of the Sialidase NEU3 as Potential Therapeutics for Fibrosis

Fibrosing diseases are a major medical problem, and are associated with more deaths per year than cancer in the US. Sialidases are enzymes that remove the sugar sialic acid from glycoconjugates. In this review, we describe efforts to inhibit fibrosis by inhibiting sialidases, and describe the following rationale for considering sialidases to be a potential target to inhibit fibrosis. First, sialidases are upregulated in fibrotic lesions in humans and in a mouse model of pulmonary fibrosis. Second, the extracellular sialidase NEU3 appears to be both necessary and sufficient for pulmonary fibrosis in mice. Third, there exist at least three mechanistic ways in which NEU3 potentiates fibrosis, with two of them being positive feedback loops where a profibrotic cytokine upregulates NEU3, and the upregulated NEU3 then upregulates the profibrotic cytokine. Fourth, a variety of NEU3 inhibitors block pulmonary fibrosis in a mouse model. Finally, the high sialidase levels in a fibrotic lesion cause an easily observed desialylation of serum proteins, and in a mouse model, sialidase inhibitors that stop fibrosis reverse the serum protein desialylation. This then indicates that serum protein sialylation is a potential surrogate biomarker for the effect of sialidase inhibitors, which would facilitate clinical trials to test the exciting possibility that sialidase inhibitors could be used as therapeutics for fibrosis.

The Function of Mixed Postbiotic PE0401 in Improving Intestinal Health via Elevating Anti-inflammation, Anti-oxidation, Epithelial Tight Junction Gene Expression and Promoting Beneficial Bacteria Growth

Dysbiosis of intestinal microbiota may cause irregular digestive function, and intestinal wall inflammation. Over the past few years, probiotics generate bioactive metabolites, named postbiotics, have been discovered its crucial roles in modulation of intestinal microbiota. Single-strain postbiotics have positive effect on health of host, but the functions of multi-strain postbiotics remain unclear. This study proposed a useful application of multi-strain postbiotics and thereby establish the developing foundation of multi-strain postbiotics. Initially, various probiotics and postbiotics were screened for anti-inflammatory activity through inducing the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β)and interleukin-10 (IL-10) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Then, we detailed the synergistic effects of 4Mix postbiotics (named as Probiotic Extracts of 4 strains- number 1, PE0401) consisted of metabolites generated from Lactobacillus salivarius AP-32, Lactobacillus acidophilus TYCA06, Lactobacillus plantarum LPL28, Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis BLI-02 on anti-inflammatory activity, anti-oxidative capacity, regulation of tight junction proteins. The results displayed that anti-inflammatory activity of 4Mix postbiotics PE0401 was stronger than other mixed postbiotic combinations. The anti-oxidative capacity, which correlated to anti-inflammation, also significantly increased as shown in DPPH and FRAP assays. The epithelial tight junction proteins expressed in mRNA levels (ZO-1, ZO-2, Occludin, JAM-A, and Claudin) were highly potent modulated by PE0401. In addition, PE0401 selectively promoted the growth of intestinal bacterial strains including Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium strains and other beneficial bacteria. Therefore, this study provides a fascinating insight into the strategy to the treatment of the intestinal disorders. PE0401 may deliver as health functional food ingredient.

A Possible Cause for the Differential Expression of a Subset of miRNAs in Mesenchymal Stem Cells Derived from Myometrium and Leiomyoma

The aetiology of leiomyoma is debated; however, dysregulated progenitor cells or miRNAs appear to be involved. Previous profiling analysis of miRNA in healthy myometrium- (M-MSCs) and leiomyoma- (L-MSCs) derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) identified 15 miRNAs differentially expressed between M-MSCs and L-MSCs. Here, we try to elucidate whether these differentially regulated 15 miRNAs arise as a conversion of M-MSCs along the differentiation process or whether they may originate from divergent cell commitment. To trace the origin of the dysregulation, a comparison was made of the expression of miRNAs previously identified as differentially regulated in M-MSCs and L-MSCs with that detected in MSCs from amniotic fluid (considered as a substitute for embryonic cells). The results do not allow for a foregone conclusion: the miRNAs converging to the adherens junction pathway showed a gradual change along the differentiation process, and the miRNAs which coincided with the other three pathways (ECM-receptor interaction, TGFβ and cell cycle) showed a complex, not linear, regulation and, therefore, a trend along the hypothetical differentiation process was not deduced. However, the role of miRNAs appears to be predominant in the onset of leiomyoma and may follow two different mechanisms (early commitment; exacerbation); furthermore, miRNAs can support the observed (epigenetic) predisposition.

A stress-induced model of acute necrotic enteritis in broiler chickens using dietary corticosterone administration

Mounting evidence indicates that stress can predispose chickens to disease. The objective of the current study was to develop a method that utilized physiological stress to predispose Ross 308 broiler chickens to acute necrotic enteritis (NE). Stress was mediated through the administration of the stress hormone, corticosterone. At 11 d posthatch (p.h.), corticosterone (20 mg kg⁻¹) administration commenced. At 12 and 13 d p.h., birds were orally inoculated with a virulent strain of Clostridium perfringens, and at 14 d p.h., birds were euthanized. Birds administered corticosterone exhibited decreased weight gain, and birds co-challenged with C. perfringens and corticosterone were affected to a higher degree. Necrotic lesions were present in birds inoculated with C. perfringens (33%), but a substantially higher prevalence of birds treated with C. perfringens and corticosterone in combination exhibited lesions (100%). Clostridium perfringens densities were correlated with necrotic lesion and histopathologic scores. Both C. perfringens and corticosterone challenge altered mRNA immune responses in the small intestine. In this regard, birds infected with the pathogen showed higher relative mRNA concentrations of toll-like receptor 2A (TLR2A), transforming growth factor beta 2 (TGFβ2), and inducible nitric oxide synthase (INOS). Birds co-challenged with C. perfringens and corticosterone showed hindered TLR2A mRNA expression. A reduction in TLR2A responses mediated by corticosterone administration suggests that the glucocorticoid suppresses immune stimulation in jejunal mucosa, which may be the underlying cause for the increased prevalence and intensity of disease observed in corticosterone treated birds. Overall, the corticosterone stress model resulted in levels of NE comparable to other models of NE that currently exist without the use of a co-infection agent. This model may facilitate the exploration of mechanisms of stress-induced NE, and the development of effective alternatives to antibiotics.

Implications of TGFβ Signaling and CDK Inhibition for the Treatment of Breast Cancer

TGFβ signaling enacts tumor-suppressive functions in normal cells through promotion of several cell regulatory actions including cell-cycle control and apoptosis. Canonical TGFβ signaling proceeds through phosphorylation of the transcription factor, SMAD3, at the C-terminus of the protein. During oncogenic progression, this tumor suppressant phosphorylation of SMAD3 can be inhibited. Overexpression of cyclins D and E, and subsequent hyperactivation of cyclin-dependent kinases 2/4 (CDKs), are often observed in breast cancer, and have been associated with poor prognosis. The noncanonical phosphorylation of SMAD3 by CDKs 2 and 4 leads to the inhibition of tumor-suppressive function of SMAD3. As a result, CDK overactivation drives oncogenic progression, and can be targeted to improve clinical outcomes. This review focuses on breast cancer, and highlights advances in the understanding of CDK-mediated noncanonical SMAD3 phosphorylation. Specifically, the role of aberrant TGFβ signaling in oncogenic progression and treatment response will be examined to illustrate the potential for therapeutic discovery in the context of cyclins/CDKs and SMAD3.

Targeting hyperactive TGFBR2 for treating MYOCD deficient lung cancer

Purpose: Clinical success of cancer therapy is severely limited by drug resistance, attributed in large part to the loss of function of tumor suppressor genes (TSGs). Developing effective strategies to treat those tumors is challenging, but urgently needed in clinic.

Experimental Design: MYOCD is a clinically relevant TSG in lung cancer patients. Our in vitro and in vivo data confirm its tumor suppressive function. Further analysis reveals that MYOCD potently inhibits stemness of lung cancer stem cells. Mechanistically, MYOCD localizes to TGFBR2 promoter region and thereby recruits PRMT5/MEP50 complex to epigenetically silence its transcription.

Conclusions: NSCLC cells deficient of MYOCD are particularly sensitive to TGFBR kinase inhibitor (TGFBRi). TGFBRi and stemness inhibitor synergize with existing drugs to treat MYOCD deficient lung cancers. Our current work shows that loss of function of MYOCD creates Achilles' heels in lung cancer cells, which might be exploited in clinic.

Global Transcriptomic Analyses Reveal Genes Involved in Conceptus Development During the Implantation Stages in Pigs

Prenatal mortality remains a significant concern to the pig farming industry around the world. Spontaneous fetal loss ranging from 20 to 45% by term occur after fertilization, with most of the loss happening during the implantation period. Since the factors regulating the high mortality rates of early conceptus during implantation phases are poorly understood, we sought to analyze the overall gene expression changes during this period, and identify the molecular mechanisms involved in conceptus development. This work employed Illumina's next-generation sequencing (RNA-Seq) and quantitative real-time PCR to analyze differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Soft clustering was subsequently used for the cluster analysis of gene expression. We identified 8236 DEGs in porcine conceptus at day 9, 12, and 15 of pregnancy. Annotation analysis of these genes revealed rRNA processing (GO:0006364), cell adhesion (GO:1904874), and heart development (GO:0007507), as the most significantly enriched biological processes at day 9, 12, and 15 of pregnancy, respectively. In addition, we found various genes, such as T-complex 1, RuvB-like AAA ATPase 2, connective tissue growth factor, integrins, interferon gamma, SLA-1, chemokine ligand 9, PAG-2, transforming growth factor beta receptor 1, and Annexin A2, that play essential roles in conceptus morphological development and implantation in pigs. Furthermore, we investigated the function of PAG-2 in vitro and found that PAG-2 can inhibit trophoblast cell proliferation and migration. Our analysis provides a valuable resource for understanding the mechanisms of conceptus development and implantation in pigs.

Latent profile analysis of blood marker phenotypes and their relationships with clinical pain and interference reports in people with acute musculoskeletal trauma

Background: The prevalence of inadequate treatments for chronic pain has necessitated the search for biological factors that influence the transition to chronicity.

Methods: Antecubital blood was drawn from those who experienced acute, noncatastrophic musculoskeletal trauma. Follow-up occurred at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months with the primary outcome being Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) Functional Interference scores. Eight markers were chosen for latent profile analysis: brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF); transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1); C-reactive protein (CRP); tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α); interleukins (ILs) 1-beta, 6, and 10; and the stress hormone cortisol.

Results: Mean age of the 106 participants was 44.6 years and 58.5% were female. The final model indicated a three-class solution that could be adequately described by three of the eight markers: class 1 = low concentration of all markers (33.9% of the sample), class 2 = average concentration of all markers (47.7%), and class 3 = high concentration of BDNF and TGF-β1 (18.3%). BPI Pain Interference scores captured at both inception and 6-month follow-up were compared across the three groups. Mean scores were significantly higher in class 3 for the BPI Interference subscale at inception (27.0 [SD 16.4] vs. 35.8 [SD 17.3], P = 0.05) and at 6-month follow-up (2.2 [SD 4.8] vs. 7.3 [SD 10.7], P = 0.03) compared to those of the other two classes.

Conclusions: Although recovered populations are not significantly different in BDNF and TGF-β1 levels, those who experience persisting disability are more likely to have moderate to high levels in serum.

Externally triggered release of growth factors - A tissue regeneration approach

Tissue regeneration aims to achieve functional restoration following injury by creating an environment to enable the body to self-repair. Strategies for regeneration rely on the introduction of biomaterial scaffolding, cells and bioactive molecules into the body, at or near the injury site. Of these bioactive molecules, growth factors (GFs) play a pivotal role in directing regenerative pathways for many cell populations. However, the therapeutic use of GFs has been limited by the complexity of biological injury and repair, and the properties of the GFs themselves, including their short half-life, poor tissue penetration, and off-target side effects. Externally triggered delivery systems have the potential to facilitate the delivery of GFs into the target tissues with considerations of the timing, sequence, amount, and location of GF presentation. This review briefly discusses the challenges facing the therapeutic use of GFs, then, we discuss approaches to externally trigger GF release from delivery systems categorised by stimulation type; ultrasound, temperature, light, magnetic fields and electric fields. Overall, while the use of GFs for tissue regeneration is still in its infancy, externally controlled GF delivery technologies have the potential to achieve robust and effective solutions to present GFs to injured tissues. Future technological developments must occur in conjunction with a comprehensive understanding of the biology at the injury site to ensure translation of promising technologies into real world benefit.

Inflammatory Biomarkers Levels in T2DM Emirati Patients with Diabetic Neuropathy

INTRODUCTION

Previous studies have suggested the involvement of chronic low-grade inflammation in the pathogenesis of diabetic neuropathy (DNP). However, none of these studies have examined the levels of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients with confirmed diagnosis of neuropathy. Therefore, the present study aims to investigate the levels of MCP-1 along with IL-6, IL-8 and TGF-β in patients with T2DM and confirmed neuropathy and identify correlations, if any, between MCP-1 and other parameters.

METHODS

A single center cross-sectional clinical study was conducted at University Hospital Sharjah (UHS) and University of Sharjah. One hundred and two patients with T2DM were recruited from diabetes clinics at UHS and were stratified into different groups based on diagnosis of DNP and other parameters. Several analyses were conducted to evaluate and compare the levels of MCP-1, IL-6, IL-8, and TGF-β across these groups of patients and identify correlations, if any, between MCP-1 and other variables.

RESULTS

A significant increase was found in the levels of MCP-1 in T2DM patients with DNP compared to the patients without DNP (p=0.002, p-adj=0.007). Further analysis has shown that levels of IL-8 (p=0.008) and TGF-β (p=0.06) were increased and decreased, respectively, in patients with DNP compared to patients without DNP. Moreover, strong correlations were found between MCP-1, IL-8 and TGF-β levels.

CONCLUSION

The key finding of the present study is the significant elevation in levels of MCP-1 in T2DM patients with DNP compared to the patients without DNP and IL-8 and TGF-β were strong predictors of MCP-1 increased levels.

The TGF-β1 Induces the Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition via the UCA1/miR-455/ZEB1 Regulatory Axis in Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells

Transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) plays important roles in the endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT). Recently, long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been identified to be involved in the physiological and pathological processes of human diseases. However, the role of endothelial lncRNAs in the TGF-β1-mediated control of angiogenesis and its underlying mechanism remains largely unclear. In this study, we first demonstrated that TGF-β1 induced EndMT; promoted cell viability, proliferation, migration, and tube formation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Second, our study displayed that TGF-β1 upregulated the lncRNA UCA1 expression in HUVECs, knocked down UCA1 with small interfering RNAs, and inhibited the function of TGF-β1 in HUVECs. Third, our study showed that UCA1 was located in the cytoplasm and absorbed miR-455 in TGF-β1-treated HUVECs. Further, the miR-455 inhibitor restored the role of the inhibited UCA1 in HUVECs treated with TGF-β1. Fourth, our study revealed that miR-455 inhibited ZEB1 expression, and overexpression of ZEB1 restored the role of miR-455 in HUVECs treated with TGF-β1. Finally, our study revealed that UCA1 exerted its role via regulating the UCA1/miR-455/ZEB1 regulatory axis in HUVECs treated with TGF-β1. Collectively, our study identified the role of the UCA1/miR-455/ZEB1 pathway in HUVECs treated with TGF-β1 and indicated the potential therapeutic role of this regulatory axis in angiogenesis.

Clinical Proteomics Profiling for Biomarker Identification Among Patients Suffering With Indian Post Kala Azar Dermal Leishmaniasis

Background: Post Kala Azar Dermal Leishmaniasis (PKDL) is a non-fatal dermal sequel of Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL), affecting individuals worldwide. Available diagnostic tools lack sensitivity and specificity toward identifying macular (MAC) PKDL patients, due to low parasite load in patients' sample. Confirmatory test like punch biopsy are invasive and painful. Considering the rural nature of this disease and the prevailing situation of diagnostic scenario, PKDL patients mostly remains unattended from receiving proper medical care. They in turn act as “mobile parasite reservoir,” responsible for VL transmission among healthy individuals (HI). This study aims to identify PKDL disease specific glycated protein biomarkers, utilizing the powerful LC-MS/MS technology, which is the tool of choice to efficiently identify and quantify disease specific protein biomarkers. These identified PKDL disease specific novel glycoproteins could be developed in future as immunochromatographic based assay for efficient case detection.

Methodology: Previously our lab had identified importance of glycated (Circulating Immune Complexes) CICs, among PKDL patients. This study aims to further characterize disease specific glycated protein biomarkers, among MAC PKDL patients for both diagnostic and prognostic evaluation of the disease. LC-MS/MS based comparative spectral count analysis of MAC PKDL to polymorphic (POLY) PKDL, HI, and Cured (CR) individuals were performed. Proteins level alterations among all study groups were confirmed by Western blot and enzyme-linked immunosorbant Assay (ELISA).

Results: Among MAC PKDL patients 43, 60, 90 proteins were altered compared to POLY PKDL, HI, and CR groups, respectively. Filtering for the most significant proteins, Plasminogen (PLG) and Vitronectin (VTN) were identified which promisingly identified MAC PKDL cases. Active surveillance results from endemic districts of West Bengal revealed drastic rise of MAC PKDL cases, alarming the urgency for field adaptive efficient biomarker.

Conclusion: This current study aims to establish PLG and VTN as novel diagnostic and prognostic protein biomarker for MAC and POLY PKDL cases management.

Transcriptome Analysis of Paralichthys olivaceus Erythrocytes Reveals Profound Immune Responses Induced by Edwardsiella tarda Infection

Unlike mammalian red blood cells (RBCs), fish RBCs are nucleated and thus capable of gene expression. Japanese flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus) is a species of marine fish with important economic values. Flounder are susceptible to Edwardsiella tarda, a severe bacterial pathogen that is able to infect and survive in flounder phagocytes. However, the infectivity of and the immune response induced by E. tarda in flounder RBCs are unclear. In the present research, we found that E. tarda was able to invade and replicate inside flounder RBCs in both in vitro and in vivo infections. To investigate the immune response induced by E. tarda in RBCs, transcriptome analysis of the spleen RBCs of flounder challenged with E. tarda was performed. Six sequencing libraries were constructed, and an average of 43 million clean reads per library were obtained, with 85% of the reads being successfully mapped to the genome of flounder. A total of 1720 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in E. tarda-infected fish. The DEGs were significantly enriched in diverse Gene Ontology (GO) terms and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways, especially those associated with immunity, disease, and infection. Ninety-one key DEGs involved in 12 immune-related pathways were found to form extensive interaction networks. Twenty-one genes that constituted the hub of the networks were further identified, which were highly regulated by E. tarda and involved in a number of immune processes, notably pathogen recognition and signal transduction, antigen processing and presentation, inflammation, and splicing. These results provide new insights into the immune role of flounder RBCs during bacterial infection.

Circulating cytokines and outcome in metastatic colorectal cancer patients treated with regorafenib

BACKGROUND

Regorafenib is an oral small-molecule multikinase inhibitor approved in third or later line of treatment for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). Regorafenib has shown significant benefits in overall survival and progression free survival in two phase III trials compared to placebo in patients with mCRC who had progressed on previous therapy.

AIM

To identify an immune profile that might specifically correlate with the outcome in patients treated with regorafenib.

METHODS

Blood samples were collected from 17 patients before treatment with regorafenib and from 6 healthy volunteers. The proteins evaluated (TNF-α, TGF-β, VEGF, CCL-2, CCL-4, and CCL-5) were selected on the basis of their roles in angiogenesis and colorectal cancer pathogenesis.

RESULTS

We found that TNF-α basal level was significantly higher in mCRC patients compared to healthy individuals. Non Responder (NR) patients showing progression of disease (n = 12) had higher basal level of TGF-β, TNF-α, VEGF, CCL-2 and CCL-5 compared to Responder (R) patients (complete response CR, n = 1; partial response PR, n = 1; Stable Disease SD, n = 3). On the contrary, plasma basal level of CCL-4 was higher in R compared to NR patients. High values of TGF-β and TNF-α negatively correlated with progression free survival.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest a cytokine signature potentially able to discriminate between R and NR patients to treatment with regorafenib.

Novel Biomarkers for Evaluation of Endothelial Dysfunction

Endothelial dysfunction is one of the earliest indicators of cardiovascular (CV) dysfunction, and its evaluation would be of considerable importance to stratify CV risk of many diseases and to assess the efficacy of atheroprotective treatments. Flow-mediated dilation is the most widely used method to study endothelial function. However, it is operator-dependent and can be influenced by physiological variations. Circulating biomarkers are a promising alternative. Due to the complexity of endothelial function, many of the biomarkers studied do not provide consistent information about the endothelium when measured alone. New circulating markers are being explored and some of them are thought to be suitable for the clinical setting. In this review, we focus on novel biomarkers of endothelial dysfunction, particularly endothelial microparticles, endocan, and endoglin, and discuss whether they fulfill the criteria to be applied in clinical practice.

TGF-β1 fucosylation enhances the autophagy and mitophagy via PI3K/Akt and Ras-Raf-MEK-ERK in ovarian carcinoma

Transforming growth factor-β, a cell secretion factor of the TGF-β superfamily, is involved in the regulation of cell proliferation, differentiation, cytoskeleton formation, migration, invasion and other biological behaviors. Autophagy and mitophagy play an important role in tumor progression by regulating self-digestion, and degradation and reuse of cells and mitochondria. In this study, changes in autophagy and mitophagy processes in ovarian cancer cells under TGF-β1 treatment were detected via Western blot and immunofluorescence, as well as the role of fucosylation modification. Changes in mitochondrial membrane potential in response to TGF-β1 and fucosylation were detected via immunofluorescence. The effects of TGF-β1 and its fucosylation on autophagic flux were further determined by transient transfection of cells with Ad-mRFP-GFP-LC3 adenovirus. TGF-β1 clearly promoted autophagy and mitophagy in ovarian cancer cells. TGF-β1 fucosylation stimulated these regulatory effects on ovarian cancer cells via modulation of PI3K/Akt and Ras-Raf-MEK-ERK pathways through TAK1. Our collective data support the physiological significance of TGF-β1 and provide a novel direction for targeted therapy for ovarian cancer.

Role of the long noncoding RNA H19 in TGF-β1-induced Tenon's capsule fibroblast proliferation and extracellular matrix deposition

Glaucoma filtration surgery (GFS) is a classic surgical method used to treat glaucoma, the second leading cause of blindness. Scar formation caused by excessive Tenon's capsule fibroblast activation leads to surgical failure. However, the mechanism underlying this activation is largely unknown. In this study, we first isolated primary human Tenon's capsule fibroblasts (HTFs) and found that TGF-β promoted the viability, proliferation and extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition of HTFs. Then, we showed that TGF-β promoted the expression of H19 in HTFs and that suppression of H19 inhibited the effect of TGF-β on HTFs. Furthermore, we revealed that H19 exerted its effects by interacting with miR-200a in TGF-β-treated HTFs. Additionally, we showed that β-catenin was a target of miR-200a in TGF-β-treated HTFs. We also demonstrated that H19 acted by modulating the H19/miR-200a/β-catenin regulatory axis in TGF-β-treated HTFs. Ultimately, we found that the components of the H19/miR-200a/β-catenin regulatory axis were aberrantly expressed in a rat model of GFS. Our results show that H19 indeed acts by modulating β-catenin expression via miR-200a in TGF-β-treated HTFs, thus providing a novel rationale for the development of H19-based strategies to attenuate scar formation after GFS.

Corticosterone-mediated physiological stress modulates hepatic lipid metabolism, metabolite profiles, and systemic responses in chickens

The impact of physiological stress on lipid metabolism, the metabolome, and systemic responses was examined in chickens. To incite a stress response, birds were continuously administered corticosterone (CORT) in their drinking water at three doses (0 mg/L, 10 mg/L, and 30 mg/L), and they were sampled 1, 5, and 12 days after commencement of CORT administration. Corticosterone administration to birds differentially regulated lipogenesis genes (i.e. FAS, ACC, ME, and SREBF1), and histopathological examination indicated lipid deposition in hepatocytes. In addition, CORT affected water-soluble metabolite profiles in the liver, as well as in kidney tissue and breast muscle; thirteen unique metabolites were distinguished in CORT-treated birds and this was consistent with the dysregulation of lipid metabolism due to physiological stress. Acute phase responses (APRs) were also altered by CORT, and in particular, expression of SAA1 was decreased and expression of CP was increased. Furthermore, CORT administration caused lymphoid depletion in the bursa of Fabricius and elevated IL6 and TGFβ2 mRNA expression after 5 and 12 days of CORT administration. Collectively, incitement of physiological stress via administration of CORT in chickens modulated host metabolism and systemic responses, which indicated that energy potentials are diverted from muscle anabolism during periods of stress.

A case of acute megakaryoblastic leukaemia (FAB M7), a rare type of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), in a teenager

Acute Megakaryoblastic Leukaemia (AML, M7) is a rare type of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) evolving from primitive megakaryoblasts. It accounted for 1.2% of newly diagnosed AML according to Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) trials between 1984 and 1997. Patients may present with a broad variety of symptoms including low-grade fever, easy bruising, and life-threatening conditions. We report a rare case of AML, M7 in a 19-year-old lady who presented with weakness and fatigue. She was diagnosed as a case of AML, M7 on the basis of peripheral blood finding, bone marrow examination report, radiological findings and immunophenotyping.

DNA-PKcs Mediates An Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Process Promoting Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma Invasion And Metastasis By Targeting The TGF-β1/Smad Signaling Pathway

Purpose

DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs) has attracted extensive attention in various types of malignant tumors. However, the role of DNA-PKcs in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) development has not been elucidated. In this study, we investigated the role of DNA-PKcs in cSCC and the molecular mechanisms of TGF-β1-induced cSCC progression mediated by DNA-PKcs.

Methods

We performed bioinformatic analysis and RT-PCR to examine the DNA-PKcs expression level in cSCC. Then, we downregulated DNA-PKcs using a DNA-PK-specific inhibitor or small interfering RNA (siRNA) to explore the effects of DNA-PKcs on SCL-1 cell migration and invasion. To further investigate the mechanism by which DNA-PKcs promotes cSCC progression, TGF-β1 and the TGF-β receptor (TGF-βR) I/II dual inhibitor LY2109761 were used to examine whether DNA-PKcs participates in TGF-β1/Smad signaling.

Results

DNA-PKcs expression was upregulated in cSCC. DNA-PK inhibition or expression knockdown resulted in inhibited migration and invasion and altered epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) marker expression patterns in SCL-1 cells. Importantly, TGF-β1 mediated EMT induction in cSCC cells, and DNA-PKcs was identified as a TGF-β1-responsive gene. TGF-β1 promoted DNA-PKcs transcription, and DNA-PKcs enhanced the TGF-β1-induced EMT program involved in cSCC invasion and metastasis by phosphorylating Smad3.

Conclusion

This study is the first to show that DNA-PKcs mediates EMT to promote cSCC aggressiveness by targeting the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway, which provides insight into how DNA-PKcs impacts cSCC progression and identifies a new therapeutic target.

The Polyphenols as Potential Agents in Prevention and Therapy of Prostate Diseases

In recent years, the progress of science and medicine greatly has influenced human life span and health. However, lifestyle habits, like physical activity, smoking cessation, moderate alcohol consumption, diet, and maintaining a normal body weight represent measures that greatly reduce the risk of various diseases. The type of diet is very important for disease development. Numerous epidemiological clinical data confirm that longevity is linked to predominantly plant-based diets and it is related to a long life; whereas the western diet, rich in red meat and fats, increases the risk of oxidative stress and thus the risk of developing various diseases and pre-aging. This review is focused on the bioavailability of polyphenols and the use of polyphenols for the prevention of prostate diseases. Special focus in this paper is placed on the isoflavonoids and flavan-3-ols, subgroups of polyphenols, and their protective effects against the development of prostate diseases.

Locally Advanced Breast Cancer in the Elderly: Curettage Mastectomy

Aims and background

Locally advanced breast tumor represents 5–20% of new cases diagnosed every year. The purpose of this study was to report our experience and to compare it with the literature.

Methods

From 1998 to 2003 at the Molinette Hospital in the Turin University Third Division of General Surgery, there were 34 cases of breast cancer in older women (between 70 and 94 years of age), 14 of which (41.18%) were locally advanced breast tumor. We evaluated the type of surgical intervention and anesthesia used, muscular invasion, the presence of receptors positive to estrogens and progesterone, the operative mortality, the percentage of local-regional recurrence, and relapses after a period of time.

Results

Among the patients with locally advanced breast tumor, 21.43% (3/14) were at stage MIA and 78.57% (11/14) at stage IIIB. In 14.29% (2/14) of the cases, Patey's radical mastectomy was performed, in 57.14% (8/14) Halsted's radical mastectomy, and in 28.57% (4/14) a simple mastectomy with the removal of the fascia of the major pectoral muscle. Three (21.43%) patients underwent a second intervention for local-regional disease. None of the patients had distant metastasis in the first 2 years after the operation. Mortality after 2 years was 23.1% (3/13). None of the patients who underwent surgery had adjuvant therapy, usually because it was refused by the patients themselves or their families. All the negative and positive hormone receptor patients received tamoxifen.

Conclusions

Locally advanced breast tumors are frequent in elderly women. In the past, there has been a tendency to surgical under-treatment. As regards locally advanced breast tumor, curettage operations represent the only possibility to improve the quality of life of the elderly. These should be performed after carefully evaluating a series of variables in the general and local condition of the patient, the aggressiveness of the intervention and the life expectancy.

Hypereosinophilia and Multisite Vasculopathy of Fibromuscular Dysplasia: A Case Report

The impact of blood disorders on fibromuscular dysplasia is unknown, and cardiovascular surgery results are also unclear. Furthermore, there are only a few case reports about the association between fibromuscular dysplasia and blood disorders. We report a case of a coronary bypass surgery and an aortic root replacement for a patient who is hypereosinophilic with multisite vasculopathy of fibromuscular dysplasia, including that of the coronary artery and saphenous vein, which was diagnosed by a histopathologic examination after an autopsy was performed 5 months after surgery. The outcome of cardiovascular surgery can be unfavorable for fibromuscular dysplasia. Blood disorders may also have an impact on the outcome.

TGF‑β1 upregulates the expression of lncRNA‑ATB to promote atherosclerosis

Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 is reported to be associated with the occurrence of atherosclerosis, although the mechanism remains unclear. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the involvement of TGF-β1 signaling in atherosclerosis. A total of 56 patients with atherosclerosis and 44 healthy volunteers were involved in this study. Serum expression of TGF-β1 and long non-coding RNA-ATB was detected by ELISA and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was performed to analyze the diagnostic value of serum TGF-β1 and lncRNA-ATB for atherosclerosis. A human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) line overexpressing lncRNA-ATB was constructed. The effects of TGF-β1 treatment and lncRNA-ATB overexpression on HUVEC cell proliferation and viability was detected with Cell Counting Kit-8 and MTT assays, respectively. Expression of TGF-β1 and pro-apoptotic Caspase-3 in lncRNA-ATB-overexpressing HUVECs was detected by western blotting. In addition, the expression of lncRNA-ATB in TGF-β1-treated HUVECs was detected by qPCR. It was demonstrated that serum TGF-β1 and lncRNA-ATB expression was significantly higher in atherosclerosis patients, compared with controls, and could be used to effectively distinguish patients from healthy individuals. TGF-β1 treatment and lncRNA-ATB overexpression reduced HUVEC viability and proliferation. TGF-β1 treatment increased the expression of lncRNA-ATB in HUVECs, while lncRNA-ATB overexpression had no significant effect on TGF-β1 expression. LncRNA-ATB silencing with small interfering RNA significantly reduced the effects of TGF-β1 treatment on the proliferation and viability of HUVECs. Furthermore, LncRNA-ATB overexpression upregulated the expression of caspase-3 in HUVECs. Therefore, it was concluded that TGF-β1 may have upregulated the expression of lncRNA-ATB to promote atherosclerosis, and lncRNA-ATB may serve as a potential therapeutic target for atherosclerosis. However, the mechanism remains to be further investigated.

Therapeutic potential of pharmacological TGF-β signaling pathway inhibitors in the pathogenesis of breast cancer

The TGF-β signaling pathway plays an important role in cancer cell proliferation, growth, inflammation, angiogenesis, and metastasis. The role of TGF-β signaling in the pathogenesis of breast cancer is complex. TGF-β acts as a tumor suppressor in the early stages of disease, and as a tumor promoter in its later stages. Over-activation of the TGF-β signaling pathway and over-expression of the TGF-β receptors are frequently found in breast tumors. Suppression of TGF-β pathway using biological or pharmacological inhibitors is a potentially novel therapeutic approach for breast cancer treatment. This review summarizes the regulatory role of TGF-β signaling in the pathogenesis of breast cancer for a better understanding and hence a better management of this disease.

Potential function of TGF-β isoforms in maturation-stage ameloblasts

OBJECTIVES

To investigate potential functions of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) isoforms in maturation-stage ameloblasts during amelogenesis.

METHODS

In vivo activation of TGF-β was characterized by using matrix metalloproteinase 20 null (Mmp20^-/-) and wild-type (Mmp20^+/+) mice. Using mHAT9d cells cultured in the presence of each TGF-β isoform, (1) cell proliferation was determined by MTS assay, (2) immunostaining with anti-cleaved caspase-3 monoclonal antibody was performed and apoptotic indices were measured, (3) gene expression was analyzed by RT-qPCR, and (4) the uptake of amelogenin into mHAT9d cells was directly observed using a fluorescence microscope.

RESULTS

TGF-β1 and TGF-β3 were present in the enamel matrix of developing teeth which were activated by MMP20 in vivo. A genetic study revealed that the three TGF-β isoforms upregulate kallikrein 4 (KLK4) mRNA levels but downregulate carbonic anhydrase II. Moreover, TGF-β1 and TGF-β2 significantly upregulated the mRNA level of amelotin, whereas TGF-β3 dramatically downregulated the mRNA levels of odontogenic ameloblast-associated protein (ODAM), family with sequence similarity 83 member H (FAM83H), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). Immunostaining analysis showed that the apoptosis of mHAT9d cells is induced by three TGF-β isoforms, with TGF-β3 being most effective. Both TGF-β1 and TGF-β3 induced endocytosis of amelogenin.

CONCLUSIONS

We propose that TGF-β is regulated in an isoform-specific manner to perform multiple biological functions such as gene expression related to the structure of basal lamina/ameloblasts, mineral ion transport, apoptosis, and endocytosis in maturation-stage ameloblasts.

Transforming Growth Factor β1 (TGF-β1) Appears to Promote Coronary Artery Disease by Upregulating Sphingosine Kinase 1 (SPHK1) and Further Upregulating Its Downstream TIMP-1

BACKGROUND Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 is involved in the pathogenesis of coronary artery disease (CAD), but the mechanism of its action remains unclear. Our study aimed to investigate the role of TGF-β1 in CAD and to explore the possible mechanisms. MATERIAL AND METHODS A total of 60 CAD patients and 54 healthy people were included in this study. Blood samples were drawn from each participant to prepare serum. ELISA was utilized to measure serum level of TGF-β1. TGF-β1 expression vector, TGF-β1 siRNA, and TIMP-1 siRNA were transfected into human primary coronary artery endothelial cell (HCAEC) line cells, and expression of TGF-β1 sphingosine kinase 1 (SPHK1) and TIMP metallopeptidase inhibitor 1 (TIMP-1) was detected by Western blot. Cell apoptosis was detected by MTT assay. RESULTS Serum level of TGF-β1 was specifically higher in patients with CAD than in healthy controls. Serum levels of active TGF-β1 can be used to effectively distinguish CAD patients from healthy controls. TGF-β1 overexpression promoted the apoptosis of HCAEC and TGF-β1 siRNA silencing inhibited the apoptosis of HCAEC. TGF-β1 overexpression also promoted the expression of SPHK1 and TIMP-1. SPHK1 overexpression upregulated TIMP-1 but it showed no significant effects on TGF-β1. TIMP-1 overexpression showed no significant effects on TGF-β1 or SPHK1. SPHK1 inhibitor and TIMP-1 silencing reduced the enhancing effects of TGF-β1 overexpression on cell apoptosis. CONCLUSIONS TGF-β1 appears to promote CAD through the induction of cell apoptosis by upregulating SPHK1 expression and further upregulating its downstream TIMP-1.

Oncogenic Signaling Induced by HCV Infection

The liver is frequently exposed to toxins, metabolites, and oxidative stress, which can challenge organ function and genomic stability. Liver regeneration is therefore a highly regulated process involving several sequential signaling events. It is thus not surprising that individual oncogenic mutations in hepatocytes do not necessarily lead to cancer and that the genetic profiles of hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) are highly heterogeneous. Long-term infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) creates an oncogenic environment by a combination of viral protein expression, persistent liver inflammation, oxidative stress, and chronically deregulated signaling events that cumulate as a tipping point for genetic stability. Although novel direct-acting antivirals (DAA)-based treatments efficiently eradicate HCV, the associated HCC risk cannot be fully eliminated by viral cure in patients with advanced liver disease. This suggests that HCV may persistently deregulate signaling pathways beyond viral cure and thereby continue to perturb cancer-relevant gene function. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge about oncogenic signaling pathways derailed by chronic HCV infection. This will not only help to understand the mechanisms of hepatocarcinogenesis but will also highlight potential chemopreventive strategies to help patients with a high-risk profile of developing HCC.

Pitavastatin ameliorates myocardial damage by preventing inflammation and collagen deposition via reduced free radical generation in isoproterenol-induced cardiomyopathy

Pitavastatin inhibits 3 hydroxy 3 methyl glutaryl coenzyme A (HMGCoA) reductase enzyme, preventing cholesterol synthesis along with elevating high density apolipoprotein A1 (Apo-A1). The present study was designed to evaluate cardioprotective potential of pitavastatin at 1 mg/kg/day and 3 mg/kg/day dose for 14 days in low dose isoproterenol (ISO) (5 mg/kg/day for 7 consecutive days) induced myocardial damage. ISO administration induced significant reduction in endogenous antioxidant enzymes like reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and raised thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) indicating activated lipid peroxidation. Along with this, a significant increase in level of cardiac injury biomarkers vie, creatine kinase (CK-MB), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), aspartate amino transferase (AST), tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) and transforming growth factor (TGF-β) as well as brain natriuretic peptide (BNP). Histological examination also revealed marked myocardial tissue damage in ISO treated rats. However, pretreatment with pitavastatin (3 mg/kg/day) significantly maintained nearly normal levels of cardiac biomarkers and oxidant antioxidant status as well as lipid peroxidation in ISO induced MI rats. Cardiac histological assessment and infarct size assessment also showed marked reduction in myocardial architecture alteration including infarct size as well as collagen deposition by pitavastatin that strongly supported biochemical findings. These observations strongly corroborate that pitavastatin prevents myocardial damages via up regulation of endogenous oxidants along with its hypocholesterolemic activity.

Retinal pigment epithelium-derived transforming growth factor-β2 inhibits the angiogenic response of endothelial cells by decreasing vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 expression

Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is a multifunctional cytokine that is known to modulate various aspects of endothelial cell (EC) biology. Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is important for regulating angiogenesis of choriocapillaris and one of the main cell sources of TGF-β secretion, particularly TGF-β2. However, it is largely unclear whether and how TGF-β2 affects angiogenic responses of ECs. In the current study, we demonstrated that TGF-β2 reduces vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR-2) expression in ECs and thereby inhibits vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling and VEGF-induced angiogenic responses such as EC migration and tube formation. We also demonstrated that the reduction of VEGFR-2 expression by TGF-β2 is due to the suppression of JNK signaling. In coculture of RPE cells and ECs, RPE cells decreased VEGFR-2 levels in ECs and EC migration. In addition, we showed that TGF-β2 derived from RPE cells is involved in the reduction of VEGFR-2 expression and inhibition of EC migration. These results suggest that TGF-β2 plays an important role in inhibiting the angiogenic responses of ECs during the interaction between RPE cells and ECs and that angiogenic responses of ECs may be amplified by a decrease in TGF-β2 expression in RPE cells under pathologic conditions.

Efficacy of Adjunctive Bioactive Materials in the Treatment of Periodontal Intrabony Defects: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Objectives

Lots of bioactive materials have been additionally applied for the treatment of periodontal intrabony defect. However, there is dearth of studies to systematically evaluate the supplementary role of them in periodontal regeneration. The goal of this meta-analysis is to evaluate the adjunctive effects of bioactive materials such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP), platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), enamel matrix derivative (EMD), and amnion membrane (AM) on the outcomes of bone grafting treatment for periodontal intrabony defects.

Methods

Articles published before December 2017 were searched electronically in three databases (PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central), with no date or language limits. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the assessment of effectiveness of the four biomaterials in conjunction with demineralized freeze-dried bone allografts (DFDBA) in the treatment of periodontal intrabony defects were enrolled in this meta-analysis. Data were analyzed with STATA 12.

Results

Nine studies were included. PRF and PRP significantly improved pocket depth (PD) reduction and clinical attachment loss (CAL) gain. Only PRF exhibited a positive result in recession reduction (RecRed). Only PRP showed a statistically significant increase in bone fill. AM merely gained more CAL. EMD did not improve any clinical outcome.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that PRF/PRP could be taken as a preferred adjunct to facilitate periodontal regeneration of intrabony defects.

Developmentally regulated signaling pathways in glioma invasion

Malignant gliomas are the most common, infiltrative, and lethal primary brain tumors affecting the adult population. The grim prognosis for this disease is due to a combination of the presence of highly invasive tumor cells that escape surgical resection and the presence of a population of therapy-resistant cancer stem cells found within these tumors. Several studies suggest that glioma cells have cleverly hijacked the normal developmental program of neural progenitor cells, including their transcriptional programs, to enhance gliomagenesis. In this review, we summarize the role of developmentally regulated signaling pathways that have been found to facilitate glioma growth and invasion. Furthermore, we discuss how the microenvironment and treatment-induced perturbations of these highly interconnected signaling networks can trigger a shift in cellular phenotype and tumor subtype.

Pathogenic roles of B lymphocytes in systemic sclerosis

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a collagen disease characterized by autoimmunity and excessive extracellular matrix deposition in the skin and visceral organs. Although the pathogenic relationship between systemic autoimmunity and the clinical manifestations of SSc remains unknown, SSc patients show a variety of abnormal immune activation including the production of disease-specific autoantibodies and cytokine production. Many recent studies have demonstrated that immune cells, including T cells, B cells, and macrophages, have a variety of immunological abnormalities in SSc. So far, several groups and our group reported that B cells play a critical role in systemic autoimmunity and disease expression through various functions, such as cytokine production, lymphoid organogenesis, and induction of other immune cell activation in addition to autoantibody production. Recent studies show that B cells from SSc patients demonstrate an up-regulated CD19 expression, a crucial regulator of B cell activation, which induces chronic hyper-reactivity of memory B cells and SSc-specific autoantibody production and also causes fibrosis of several organs. Furthermore, in SSc-model mice, such as tight-skin mice, bleomycin-induced SSc model mice, and DNA topoisomerase I and complete Freund's adjuvant-induced SSc model mice, have abnormal B cell activation which associates with skin and lung fibrosis. Indeed, B cell depletion therapy using anti-CD20 Ab, Rituximab, is considered to one potential beneficial treatment for patients with SSc. However, there is no direct evidence which can explain how B cells, especially autoantigen-reactive B cells, progress or regulate disease manifestations of SSc. Collectively, B cell abnormalities in SSc is most likely participating in fibrosis and tissue damage of SSc. If the relationship between SSc-specific tissue damage and B cell abnormalities is revealed, these findings lead to novel effective therapy for SSc.

Dual effects of hyperglycemia on endothelial cells and cardiomyocytes to enhance coronary LPL activity

In the diabetic heart, there is excessive dependence on fatty acid (FA) utilization to generate ATP. Lipoprotein lipase (LPL)-mediated hydrolysis of circulating triglycerides is suggested to be the predominant source of FA for cardiac utilization during diabetes. In the heart, the majority of LPL is synthesized in cardiomyocytes and secreted onto cell surface heparan sulfate proteoglycan (HSPG), where an endothelial cell (EC)-releasable β-endoglycosidase, heparanase cleaves the side chains of HSPG to liberate LPL for its onward movement across the EC. EC glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored high-density lipoprotein-binding protein 1 (GPIHBP1) captures this released enzyme at its basolateral side and shuttles it across to its luminal side. We tested whether the diabetes-induced increase of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) can influence the myocyte and EC to help transfer LPL to the vascular lumen to generate triglyceride-FA. In response to high glucose and EC heparanase secretion, this endoglycosidase is taken up by the cardiomyocyte (Wang Y, Chiu AP, Neumaier K, Wang F, Zhang D, Hussein B, Lal N, Wan A, Liu G, Vlodavsky I, Rodrigues B. Diabetes 63: 2643–2655, 2014) to stimulate matrix metalloproteinase-9 expression and the conversion of latent to active TGF-β. In the cardiomyocyte, TGF-β activation of RhoA enhances actin cytoskeleton rearrangement to promote LPL trafficking and secretion onto cell surface HSPG. In the EC, TGF-β signaling promotes mesodermal homeobox 2 translocation to the nucleus, which increases the expression of GPIHBP1, which facilitates movement of LPL to the vascular lumen. Collectively, our data suggest that in the diabetic heart, TGF-β actions on the cardiomyocyte promotes movement of LPL, whereas its action on the EC facilitates LPL shuttling.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Endothelial cells, as first responders to hyperglycemia, release heparanase, whose subsequent uptake by cardiomyocytes amplifies matrix metalloproteinase-9 expression and activation of transforming growth factor-β. Transforming growth factor-β increases lipoprotein lipase secretion from cardiomyocytes and promotes mesodermal homeobox 2 to enhance glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored high-density lipoprotein-binding protein 1-dependent transfer of lipoprotein lipase across endothelial cells, mechanisms that accelerate fatty acid utilization by the diabetic heart.

An Update on the Therapeutic Potential of Stem Cells

The seeming setbacks noted for stem cells underscore the need for experimental studies for safe and efficacious application to patients. Both clinical and experimental researchers have gained valuable knowledge on the characteristics of stem cells, and their behavior in different microenvironment. This introductory chapter focuses on adult mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) based on the predominance in the clinic. MSCs can be influenced by inflammatory mediators to exert immune suppressive properties, commonly referred to as "licensing." Interestingly, while there are questions if other stem cells can be delivered across allogeneic barrier, there is no question on the ability of MSCs to provide this benefit. This property has been a great advantage since MSCs could be available for immediate application as "off-the-shelf" stem cells for several disorders, tissue repair and gene/drug delivery. Despite the benefit of MSCs, it is imperative that research continues with the various types of stem cells. The method needed to isolate these cells is outlined in this book. In parallel, safety studies are needed; particularly links to oncogenic event. In summary, this introductory chapter discusses several potential areas that need to be addressed for safe and efficient delivery of stem cells, and argue for the incorporation of microenvironmental factors in the studies. The method described in this chapter could be extrapolated to the field of chimeric antigen receptor T-cells (CAR-T). This will require application to stem cell hierarchy of memory T-cells.

Sex Differences in Early Postnatal Microglial Colonization of the Developing Rat Hippocampus Following a Single-Day Alcohol Exposure

Microglia are involved in various homeostatic processes in the brain, including phagocytosis, apoptosis, and synaptic pruning. Sex differences in microglia colonization of the developing brain have been reported, but have not been established following alcohol insult. Developmental alcohol exposure represents a neuroimmune challenge that may contribute to cognitive dysfunction prevalent in humans with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) and in rodent models of FASD. Most studies have investigated neuroimmune activation following adult alcohol exposure or following multiple exposures. The current study uses a single day binge alcohol exposure model (postnatal day [PD] 4) to examine sex differences in the neuroimmune response in the developing rat hippocampus on PD5 and 8. The neuroimmune response was evaluated through measurement of microglial number and cytokine gene expression at both time points. Male pups had higher microglial number compared to females in many hippocampal subregions on PD5, but this difference disappeared by PD8, unless exposed to alcohol. Expression of pro-inflammatory marker CD11b was higher on PD5 in alcohol-exposed (AE) females compared to AE males. After alcohol exposure, C-C motif chemokine ligand 4 (CCL4) was significantly increased in female AE pups on PD5 and PD8. Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels were also upregulated by AE in males on PD8. The results demonstrate a clear difference between the male and female neuroimmune response to an AE challenge, which also occurs in a time-dependent manner. These findings are significant as they add to our knowledge of specific sex-dependent effects of alcohol exposure on microglia within the developing brain.

Distribution of Smad mRNA and proteins in the rat brain

Smad proteins are known to transduce the action of TGF-β superfamily proteins including TGF-βs, activins, and bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs). In this study, we examined the expression of Smad1, -2, -3, -4, -5, and -8 mRNA in the rat brain by means of RT-PCR and in situ hybridization (ISH). In addition, we examined the nuclear accumulation of Smad1, -2, -3, -5, and -8 proteins after intracerebroventricular injection of TGF-β1, activin A, or BMP6 with immunohistochemistry to investigate whether TGF-β, activin, and/or BMP activate Smads in the rat brain. RT-PCR analysis revealed that Smad1, -2, -3, -4, -5, and -8 mRNA was expressed in the brain and that the Smad3 and Smad8 mRNA differed in the expression level between brain regions. For example, there were high levels of expression of Smad3 mRNA in the cerebral cortex, caudate putamen/globus pallidus, and cerebellum, but low levels in the thalamus and midbrain. Expression of Smad8 mRNA was higher in the midbrain, cerebellum, and pons/medulla oblongata in comparison to the olfactory bulb, cerebral cortex, caudate putamen/globus pallidus, hippocampus/dentate gyrus, and thalamus. ISH signals for Smad1 mRNA were widely detected in the brain except for a small number of regions including the olfactory tubercle, posterior region of hypothalamus, and cerebellar nuclei. ISH signals for Smad2 mRNA were abundantly observed in several brain regions including the olfactory bulb, piriform cortex, basal ganglia, cingulate cortex, epithalamus, including the pineal gland and medial habenular nuclei, hypothalamus, inferior colliculi of the midbrain, and some nuclei in the pons, cerebellar cortex, and choroid plexus. ISH signals for Smad3 mRNA were also abundantly observed in several brain regions. Especially strong signals for Smad3 mRNA were observed in the olfactory tubercle, piriform cortex, basal ganglia, dentate gyrus, and cingulate cortex. ISH signals for Smad5 and Smad8 mRNA were restricted to a small number of brain regions, the signal intensity of which was weak. ISH signals for Smad4 mRNA were detected in all regions examined. Intracerebroventricular injection of activin A induced nuclear accumulation of Smad2 and Smad3 immunoreactivity in neurons. In contrast, intracerebroventricular injection of TGF-β1 or BMP6 did not induce nuclear accumulation of the immunoreactivity for any Smad in neurons. These results suggest that activin-Smad signaling plays an important role in brain homeostasis.

Vasohibin-2 is required for epithelial-mesenchymal transition of ovarian cancer cells by modulating transforming growth factor-β signaling

Vasohibin‐2 (VASH2) is a homolog of VASH1, an endothelium‐derived angiogenesis inhibitor. Vasohibin‐2 is mainly expressed in cancer cells, and has been implicated in the progression of cancer by inducing angiogenesis and tumor growth. Although VASH2 has been recently reported to be involved in epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), its precise roles are obscure. The aim of the present study was to clarify the role of VASH2 in the EMT of cancer cells in relation to transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) signaling, which is a major stimulator of EMT. Decreased expression of VASH2 in ovarian cancer cells significantly repressed the expression of TGF‐β type I receptor, namely activin receptor‐like kinase 5. Transforming growth factor‐β1‐induced phosphorylation of Smad2 and Smad3 was markedly decreased in VASH2 knockdown cells while the expression of Smad2 and Smad3 was unchanged. Accordingly, the responses to TGF‐β1 shown by promoter assay and plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 expression were significantly attenuated in VASH2 knockdown cells. Furthermore, knockdown of VASH2 in cancer cells abrogated the TGF‐β1‐induced reduced expression of epithelial markers including E‐cadherin, and the elevated expression of mesenchymal markers including fibronectin, ZEB2, and Snail2, suggesting that endogenous VASH2 is required for TGF‐β1‐induced EMT. In accordance with these results, the effects of TGF‐β1 on cell morphology, migration, invasion, and MMP2 expression were also abrogated when VASH2 was knocked down. These results indicate that VASH2 played a significant role in the EMT by modulating the TGF‐β signaling. We propose that VASH2 would be a novel molecular target for the prevention of EMT in cancers.

BBC3 in macrophages promoted pulmonary fibrosis development through inducing autophagy during silicosis

Following inhalation into the lungs, silica particles are engulfed by alveolar macrophages, which triggers endogenous or exogenous apoptosis signaling pathways. As an inducer of apoptosis, the role of BBC3/PUMA (BCL2-binding component 3) in macrophages during silicosis remains unknown. Here, we exposed U937 cell-derived macrophages (UDMs) to SiO₂in vitro to explore the function of BBC3 in SiO₂-induced disease. We found that SiO₂ induced increased BBC3 expression, as well as macrophage activation and apoptosis. Knockdown of Bbc3 with specific siRNA significantly mitigated the SiO₂-induced effects. In addition, our results clearly showed increased levels of autophagy in macrophages exposed to SiO₂. However, inhibition of BBC3 decreased the occurrence of autophagy. Furthermore, we observed that the blockade of autophagy with 3-MA, an autophagy inhibitor, inhibited SiO₂-induced macrophage activation and apoptosis. In contrast, rapamycin, an autophagy inducer, further enhanced the effects induced by SiO₂. The conditioned medium from macrophages exposed to SiO₂ promoted the proliferation and migration of fibroblasts, and the inhibition of BBC3/autophagy reduced the effects of the conditioned medium on fibroblasts. In the mouse model of silicosis, Bbc3 knockout mice clearly exhibited decreased levels of autophagy and fibrosis progression. These results suggest that downregulation of BBC3 expression may become a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of silicosis.

Fibromodulin Expression in Folliculostellate Cells and Pericytes Is Promoted by TGFβ Signaling in Rat Anterior Pituitary Gland

Fibromodulin belongs to the family of small leucine-rich proteoglycans (SLRPs), an active component of extracellular matrix. It directly binds collagens to promote fibrillogenesis and also binds transforming growth factor-beta (TGFβ) to antagonize its actions. Our previous studies of rat anterior pituitary gland revealed that fibromodulin is expressed in folliculostellate cells and pericytes. Although our recent study showed that TGFβ2 secreted from folliculostellate cells induces collagen synthesis in pericytes, the involvement of fibromodulin in TGFβ2-mediated collagen regulation has not been studied. The present study examined the effect of TGFβ2 on fibromodulin synthesis in rat anterior pituitary gland. In situ hybridization for TGFβ receptor II and immunohistological techniques revealed the presence of TGFβ receptor II in folliculostellate cells and pericytes. To confirm canonical TGFβ intracellular signaling, Smad2 immunocytochemistry was performed. Nuclear translocation of Smad2 was observed in folliculostellate cells and pericytes after TGFβ2 treatment. TGFβ2 strongly enhanced fibromodulin mRNA and protein expressions, and TGFβ2-induced mRNA expression was completely blocked by TGFβ receptor I inhibitor (SB431542). These results suggest that folliculostellate cells and pericytes exhibit canonical TGFβ2 signaling, which is associated with fibromodulin production. Thus, this is the first report to show that TGFβ signaling regulates the endogenous TGFβ antagonist fibromodulin in the gland.

Effective treatment for prevention of post-operative adhesion after strabismus surgery in experimental rabbit model: 0.5 % tranilast ophthalmic solution

Background

Postoperative adhesion is one of the major complications of strabismus surgery and result in motility dysfunction that brings unpredictable surgical outcomes. However, there was no definitely accepted treatment method to prevent postoperative adhesion.

Methods

A prospective, randomized, controlled experimental animal study was performed. Both eyes of each of 14 New Zealand White rabbits underwent superior rectus muscle recession. After the surgical procedure, the subjects were divided randomly into two groups; 0.5 % tranilast ophthalmic solutions and fluoroquinolone antibiotic eye drops were administered to the group tranilast (N = 14), while the group control (N = 14) received fluoroquinolone eye drops only. Five weeks after surgery, we evaluated gross adhesions with a numeric score (0 to 4). In addition, histopathologic examination with hematoxylin & eosin staining, Masson’s-trichrome staining, and anti-transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) immuno-histochemical staining were done.

Results

The group tranilast showed significantly less gross adhesion and inflammation than the group control (P = 0.01 and P < 0.001, respectively). Masson’s-trichrome staining revealed that post-operative collagen deposition was more prominent in the group control than the group tranilast (P < 0.001). Moreover, remarkable TGF-β1 expression was observed in areas with excessive collagen deposition.

Conclusions

Instillation of 0.5 % tranilast ophthalmic solution is a simple and effective method for preventing post-operative adhesion after strabismus surgery.

Growth Factor Variation in Two Types of Autologous Platelet Biomaterials: PRP Versus PRF

Autologous platelet biomaterials represent a key source of cytokines and growth factors extensively used for clinical and surgical applications involving tissue regeneration; wound healing and tissue repair. In this communication we discuss the growth factors released by activated platelet rich plasma (PRP) and platelet rich fibrin (PRF) releasate. Our study highlights that significantly higher growth factors (TGF-ß1) are released by activated PRP as compared to releasate of PRF. The various growth factors released by both platelet products are significantly higher than the baseline concentration in the whole blood and have different bio-mechanism hence should be individualized as per the clinical indication.

Capparis Spinosa L. promotes anti-inflammatory response in vitro through the control of cytokine gene expression in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells

BACKGROUND

Capparis Spinosa L. is an aromatic plant growing wild in dry regions around the Mediterranean basin. Capparis Spinosa was shown to possess several properties such as antioxidant, antifungal, and anti-hepatotoxic actions. In this work, we aimed to evaluate immunomodulatory properties of Capparis Spinosa leaf extracts in vitro on human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from healthy individuals.

RESULTS

Using MTT assay, we identified a range of Capparis Spinosa doses, which were not toxic. Unexpectedly, we found out that Capparis Spinosa aqueous fraction exhibited an increase in cell metabolic activity, even though similar doses did not affect cell proliferation as shown by CFSE. Interestingly, Capparis Spinosa aqueous fraction appeared to induce an overall anti-inflammatory response through significant inhibition of IL-17 and induction of IL-4 gene expression when PBMCs were treated with the non toxic doses of 100 and/or 500 μg/ml. Phytoscreening analysis of the used Capparis Spinosa preparations showed that these contain tannins; sterols, alkaloids; polyphenols and flavonoids. Surprisingly, quantification assays showed that our Capparis Spinosa preparation contains low amounts of polyphenols relative to Capparis Spinosa used in other studies. This Capparis Spinosa also appeared to act as a weaker scavenging free radical agent as evidenced by DPPH radical scavenging test. Finally, polyphenolic compounds including catechin, caffeic acid, syringic acid, rutin and ferulic acid were identified by HPLC, in the Capparis spinosa preparation.

CONCLUSION

Altogether, these findings suggest that our Capparis Spinosa preparation contains interesting compounds, which could be used to suppress IL-17 and to enhance IL-4 gene expression in certain inflammatory situations. Other studies are underway in order to identify the compound(s) underlying this effect.