The Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase (MAPK) Pathway: Role in Immune Evasion by Trypanosomatids

The Janus face of HIF-1α in ischemic stroke and the possible associated pathways

Stroke is the most devastating disease, causing paralysis and eventually death. Many clinical and experimental trials have been done in search of a new safe and efficient medicine; nevertheless, scientists have yet to discover successful remedies that are also free of adverse effects. This is owing to the variability in intensity, localization, medication routes, and each patient's immune system reaction. HIF-1α represents the modern tool employed to treat stroke diseases due to its functions: downstream genes such as glucose metabolism, angiogenesis, erythropoiesis, and cell survival. Its role can be achieved via two downstream EPO and VEGF strongly related to apoptosis and antioxidant processes. Recently, scientists paid more attention to drugs dealing with the HIF-1 pathway. This review focuses on medicines used for ischemia treatment and their potential HIF-1α pathways. Furthermore, we discussed the interaction between HIF-1α and other biological pathways such as oxidative stress; however, a spotlight has been focused on certain potential signalling contributed to the HIF-1α pathway. HIF-1α is an essential regulator of oxygen balance within cells which affects and controls the expression of thousands of genes related to sustaining homeostasis as oxygen levels fluctuate. HIF-1α's role in ischemic stroke strongly depends on the duration and severity of brain damage after onset. HIF-1α remains difficult to investigate, particularly in ischemic stroke, due to alterations in the acute and chronic phases of the disease, as well as discrepancies between the penumbra and ischemic core. This review emphasizes these contrasts and analyzes the future of this intriguing and demanding field.

Translational Relevance of Secondary Intracellular Signaling Cascades Following Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury

Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) is a life-threatening and life-altering condition that results in debilitating sensorimotor and autonomic impairments. Despite significant advances in the clinical management of traumatic SCI, many patients continue to suffer due to a lack of effective therapies. The initial mechanical injury to the spinal cord results in a series of secondary molecular processes and intracellular signaling cascades in immune, vascular, glial, and neuronal cell populations, which further damage the injured spinal cord. These intracellular cascades present promising translationally relevant targets for therapeutic intervention due to their high ubiquity and conservation across eukaryotic evolution. To date, many therapeutics have shown either direct or indirect involvement of these pathways in improving recovery after SCI. However, the complex, multifaceted, and heterogeneous nature of traumatic SCI requires better elucidation of the underlying secondary intracellular signaling cascades to minimize off-target effects and maximize effectiveness. Recent advances in transcriptional and molecular neuroscience provide a closer characterization of these pathways in the injured spinal cord. This narrative review article aims to survey the MAPK, PI3K-AKT-mTOR, Rho-ROCK, NF-κB, and JAK-STAT signaling cascades, in addition to providing a comprehensive overview of the involvement and therapeutic potential of these secondary intracellular pathways following traumatic SCI.

Cellular and transcriptomic response to pathogenic and non-pathogenic Vibrio parahaemolyticus strains causing acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (AHPND) in Litopenaeus vannamei

The shrimp industry has historically been affected by viral and bacterial diseases. One of the most recent emerging diseases is Acute Hepatopancreatic Necrosis Disease (AHPND), which causes severe mortality. Despite its significance to sanitation and economics, little is known about the molecular response of shrimp to this disease. Here, we present the cellular and transcriptomic responses of Litopenaeus vannamei exposed to two Vibrio parahaemolyticus strains for 98 h, wherein one is non-pathogenic (VpN) and the other causes AHPND (VpP). Exposure to the VpN strain resulted in minor alterations in hepatopancreas morphology, including reductions in the size of R and B cells and detachments of small epithelial cells from 72 h onwards. On the other hand, exposure to the VpP strain is characterized by acute detachment of epithelial cells from the hepatopancreatic tubules and infiltration of hemocytes in the inter-tubular spaces. At the end of exposure, RNA-Seq analysis revealed functional enrichment in biological processes, such as the toll3 receptor signaling pathway, apoptotic processes, and production of molecular mediators involved in the inflammatory response of shrimp exposed to VpN treatment. The biological processes identified in the VpP treatment include superoxide anion metabolism, innate immune response, antimicrobial humoral response, and toll3 receptor signaling pathway. Furthermore, KEGG enrichment analysis revealed metabolic pathways associated with survival, cell adhesion, and reactive oxygen species, among others, for shrimp exposed to VpP. Our study proves the differential immune responses to two strains of V. parahaemolyticus, one pathogenic and the other nonpathogenic, enlarges our knowledge on the evolution of AHPND in L. vannamei, and uncovers unique perspectives on establishing genomic resources that may function as a groundwork for detecting probable molecular markers linked to the immune system in shrimp.

Proteomic and Cellular Characterization of Omicron Breakthrough Infections and a Third Homologous or Heterologous Boosting Vaccination in a Longitudinal Cohort

The understanding of dynamic plasma proteome features in hybrid immunity and breakthrough infection is limited. A deeper understanding of the immune differences between heterologous and homologous immunization could assist in the future establishment of vaccination strategies. In this study, 40 participants who received a third dose of either a homologous BBIBP-CorV or a heterologous ZF2001 protein subunit vaccine following two doses of inactivated coronavirus disease 2019 vaccines and 12 patients with BA2.2 breakthrough infections were enrolled. Serum samples were collected at days 0, 28, and 180 following the boosting vaccination and breakthrough and then analyzed using neutralizing antibody tests and mass spectrometer-based proteomics. Mass cytometry of peripheral blood mononuclear cell samples was also performed in this cohort. The chemokine signaling pathway and humoral response markers (IgG2 and IgG3) associated with infection were found to be upregulated in breakthrough infections compared to vaccination-induced immunity. Elevated expression of IGKV, IGHV, IL-17 signaling, and the phagocytosis pathway, along with lower expression of FGL2, were correlated with higher antibody levels in the boosting vaccination groups. The MAPK signaling pathway and Fc gamma R-mediated phagocytosis were more enriched in the heterologous immunization groups than in the homologous immunization groups. Breakthrough infections can trigger more intensive inflammatory chemokine responses than vaccination. T-cell and innate immune activation have been shown to be closely related to enhanced antibody levels after vaccination and therefore might be potential targets for vaccine adjuvant design.

Fulvic acid modulates mucosal immunity in fish skin: Sustainable aquaculture solution or environmental risk factor?

This is the first study determining the effects of bath exposure to fulvic acid, a humic substance, on the skin mucosal immunity of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Humic substances have recently been gaining attention for their increasing concentrations in aquatic ecosystems and their use as supplements in sustainable aquaculture. This study demonstrated that water exposure to fulvic acid at concentrations of 5 mg C/L and 50 mg C/L increased lysozyme and alkaline phosphatase activities in the mucus by approximately 2-fold and 2.5 to 3.2-fold, respectively. Furthermore, exposure to 50 mg C/L resulted in a 77.0% increase in mucosal immunoglobulin concentrations compared to the other groups. Importantly, all mucus samples demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against Yersinia ruckeri, with control mucus reducing bacterial growth by 44.5% and exposure to fulvic acid increasing this effect to 26.3%. Although these modulations show promise for application in aquaculture, alterations of the beneficial microbiota from long-term exposure in natural waters can be expected. Monitoring the rising concentrations of humic substances in natural water bodies is therefore urgently needed. Overall, this study represents the first investigation revealing the ability of humic substances to modulate skin mucosal immunity and the capacity to combat microorganisms.

Design, Synthesis, and Molecular Docking of Novel Miscellaneous Chalcones as p38α Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Inhibitors

New chalcones were synthesized and evaluated to serve as p38-α type of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) inhibitors. According to the National Cancer Institute, the findings indicated that at a 10 μM dosage, compounds 3a and 6 were the most active among all the compounds examined, with mean growth inhibition% of 94.83 and 58.49, respectively. In 5-dose testing, they showed anticancer activity in the micro-molar range with GI50 in the range of 1.41-46.1 and 2.07-31.3 μM, respectively. Besides, powerful activity, especially against the leukaemia cell lines and good selectivity to cancer cells compared to normal PCS-800-017 with a selectivity index=12.41 and 23.77, respectively. Compounds 3a and 6 inhibited p38α MAPK with IC50 values of 0.1462±0.0063 and 0.4356±0.0189 μM, correspondingly. 3a showed good inhibition for HL-60(TB) cells and induced cell cycle arrest in HL-60(TB) cells at the G2/M phase. Besides, it elevated the total apoptosis by 14.68-fold and increased the caspase-3 level by 3.52-fold compared with doxorubicin, which raised it by 4.30-fold, inducing apoptosis by acting as caspase-dependent inducers. These results suggest that 3a is a promising antiproliferative and p38α MAPK inhibitor, confirmed by molecular docking with high compatibility 3a with the p38α MAPK binding site.

LdCyPA attenuates MAPK pathway to assist Leishmania donovani immune escape in host cells

BACKGROUND

Visceral leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease affecting millions of people worldwide. Macrophages serve as the primary host cells for L. donovani, the immune response capability of these host cells is crucial for parasites' intracellular survival. L. donovani peptidyl-prolyl cis/trans isomerase Cyclophilin A (LdCypA) is a key protein for L. donovani intracellular proliferation, while the molecular mechanism conducive to intracellular survival of parasites remains elusive.

METHODS

In this study, we generated a macrophage cell line overexpressing LdCyPA to investigate its role in controlling host immunity and promoting intracellular immune escape of L. donovani.

RESULTS

It was discovered that the overexpression of the LdCyPA cell line regulated the host immune response following infection by downregulating the proportion of M1-type macrophages, promoting the secretion of the anti-inflammatory factor IL-4, and inhibiting the secretion of pro-inflammatory factors like IL-12, IFN-γ, TNF-α, and INOS. Transcriptome sequencing and mechanistic validation, meanwhile, demonstrated that cells overexpressing LdCyPA controlled the immune responses that followed infection by blocking the phosphorylation of P38 and JNK1/2 proteins in the MAPK signaling pathway and simultaneously increasing the phosphorylation of ERK proteins, which helped the L. donovani escape immune recognition.

CONCLUSION

Our findings thus pave the way for the development of host-directed antiparasitic drugs by illuminating the pro-Leishmania survival mechanism of L. donovani cyclophilin A and exposing a novel immune escape strategy for L. donovani that targets host cellular immune regulation.

Inflammatory Patterns Associated with Legionella in HIV and Pneumonia Coinfections

Legionella infections have a propensity for occurring in HIV-infected individuals, with immunosuppressed individuals tending to present with more severe disease. However, understanding regarding the Legionella host response in immune compromised individuals is lacking. This study investigated the inflammatory profiles associated with Legionella infection in patients hospitalized with HIV and pneumonia in Medellín, Colombia from February 2007 to April 2014, and correlated these profiles with clinical outcomes. Sample aliquots from the Colombian cohort were shipped to Canada where Legionella infections and systemic cytokine profiles were determined using real-time PCR and bead-based technology, respectively. To determine the effect of Legionella coinfection on clinical outcome, a patient database was consulted, comparing laboratory results and outcomes between Legionella-positive and -negative individuals. Principal component analysis revealed higher plasma concentrations of eotaxin, IP-10 and MCP-1 (p = 0.0046) during Legionella infection. Individuals with this immune profile also had higher rates of intensive care unit admissions (adjusted relative risk 1.047 [95% confidence interval 1.027-1.066]). Results demonstrate that systemic markers of monocyte/macrophage activation and differentiation (eotaxin, MCP-1, and IP-10) are associated with Legionella infection and worse patient outcomes. Further investigations are warranted to determine how this cytokine profile may play a role in Legionella pneumonia pathogenesis or immunity.

A Genome-Wide Association Study for Resistance to Tropical Theileriosis in Two Bovine Portuguese Autochthonous Breeds

The control of Tropical Theileriosis, a tick-borne disease with a strong impact on cattle breeding, can be facilitated using marker-assisted selection in breeding programs. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) using high-density arrays are extremely important for the ongoing process of identifying genomic variants associated with resistance to Theileria annulata infection. In this work, single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were analyzed in the Portuguese autochthonous cattle breeds Alentejana and Mertolenga. In total, 24 SNPs suggestive of significance (p ≤ 10-4) were identified for Alentejana cattle and 20 SNPs were identified for Mertolenga cattle. The genomic regions around these SNPs were further investigated for annotated genes and quantitative trait loci (QTLs) previously described by other authors. Regarding the Alentejana breed, the MAP3K1, CMTM7, SSFA2, and ATG13 genes are located near suggestive SNPs and appear as candidate genes for resistance to Tropical Theileriosis, considering its action in the immune response and resistance to other diseases. On the other hand, in the Mertolenga breed, the UOX gene is also a candidate gene due to its apparent link to the pathogenesis of the disease. These results may represent a first step toward the possibility of including genetic markers for resistance to Tropical Theileriosis in current breed selection programs.

Exploration of key drug target proteins highlighting their related regulatory molecules, functional pathways and drug candidates associated with delirium: evidence from meta-data analyses

BACKGROUND

Delirium is a prevalent neuropsychiatric medical phenomenon that causes serious emergency outcomes, including mortality and morbidity. It also increases the suffering and the economic burden for families and carers. Unfortunately, the pathophysiology of delirium is still unknown, which is a major obstacle to therapeutic development. The modern network-based system biology and multi-omics analysis approach has been widely used to recover the key drug target biomolecules and signaling pathways associated with disease pathophysiology. This study aimed to identify the major drug target hub-proteins associated with delirium, their regulatory molecules with functional pathways, and repurposable drug candidates for delirium treatment.

METHODS

We used a comprehensive proteomic seed dataset derived from a systematic literature review and the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD). An integrated multi-omics network-based bioinformatics approach was utilized in this study. The STRING database was used to construct the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network. The gene set enrichment and signaling pathways analysis, the regulatory transcription factors and microRNAs were conducted using delirium-associated genes. Finally, hub-proteins associated repurposable drugs were retrieved from CMap database.

RESULTS

We have distinguished 11 drug targeted hub-proteins (MAPK1, MAPK3, TP53, JUN, STAT3, SRC, RELA, AKT1, MAPK14, HSP90AA1 and DLG4), 5 transcription factors (FOXC1, GATA2, YY1, TFAP2A and SREBF1) and 6 microRNA (miR-375, miR-17-5, miR-17-5p, miR-106a-5p, miR-125b-5p, and miR-125a-5p) associated with delirium. The functional enrichment and pathway analysis revealed the cytokines, inflammation, postoperative pain, oxidative stress-associated pathways, developmental biology, shigellosis and cellular senescence which are closely connected with delirium development and the hallmarks of aging. The hub-proteins associated computationally identified repurposable drugs were retrieved from database. The predicted drug molecules including aspirin, irbesartan, ephedrine-(racemic), nedocromil, and guanidine were characterized as anti-inflammatory, stimulating the central nervous system, neuroprotective medication based on the existing literatures. The drug molecules may play an important role for therapeutic development against delirium if they are investigated more extensively through clinical trials and various wet lab experiments.

CONCLUSION

This study could possibly help future research on investigating the delirium-associated therapeutic target biomarker hub-proteins and repurposed drug compounds. These results will also aid understanding of the molecular mechanisms that underlie the pathophysiology of delirium onset and molecular function.

Unlocking the potential of the tumor microenvironment for cancer therapy

The tumor microenvironment (TME) holds a crucial role in the progression of cancer. Epithelial-derived tumors share common traits in shaping the TME. The Warburg effect is a notable phenomenon wherein tumor cells exhibit resistance to apoptosis and an increased reliance on anaerobic glycolysis for energy production. Recognizing the pivotal role of the TME in controlling tumor growth and influencing responses to chemotherapy, researchers have focused on developing potential cancer treatment strategies. A wide array of therapies, including immunotherapies, antiangiogenic agents, interventions targeting cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF), and therapies directed at the extracellular matrix, have been under investigation and have demonstrated efficacy. Additionally, innovative techniques such as tumor tissue explants, "tumor-on-a-chip" models, and multicellular tumor spheres have been explored in laboratory research. This comprehensive review aims to provide insights into the intricate cross-talk between cancer-associated signaling pathways and the TME in cancer progression, current therapeutic approaches targeting the TME, the immune landscape within solid tumors, the role of the viral TME, and cancer cell metabolism.

In silico and in vitro potentials of crocin and amphotericin B on Leishmania major: Multiple synergistic mechanisms of actions

A significant barrier to optimal antileishmanial treatment is low efficacy and the emergence of drug resistance. Multiple approaches were used to monitor and assess crocin (a central component of saffron) mixed with amphotericin B (AmpB) potential in silico and in vitro consequences. The binding behavior of crocin and iNOS was the purpose of molecular docking. The results showed that crocin coupled with AmpB demonstrated a safe combination, extremely antileishmanial, suppressed Leishmania arginase absorption, and increased parasite death. This natural flower component is a robust antioxidant, significantly promoting the expression of the Th1-connected cytokines (IL12p40, IFN-γ, and TNF- α), iNOS, and transcription factors (Elk-1, c-Fos, and STAT-1). In comparison, the expression of the Th2-associated phenotypes (IL-10, IL-4, and TGF-β) was significantly reduced. The leishmanicidal effect of this combination was also mediated through programmed cell death (PCD), as confirmed by the manifestation of phosphatidylserine and cell cycle detention at the sub-GO/G1 phase. In conclusion, crocin with AmpB synergistically exerted in vitro antileishmanial action, generated nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species, modulated Th1, and Th2 phenotypes and transfer factors, enhanced PCD profile and arrested the cell cycle of Leishmania major promastigotes. The main action of crocin and AmpB involved wide-ranging mechanistic insights for conducting other clinical settings as promising drug candidates for cutaneous leishmaniasis. Therefore, this combination could be esteemed as a basis for a potential bioactive component and a logical source for leishmanicidal drug development against CL in future advanced clinical settings.

Cellular responses in crustaceans under white spot syndrome virus infection

Innate immunity plays the most important system responsible for protecting crustaceans against invading pathogens. White spot syndrome virus (WSSV) is considered a serious pathogen in crustaceans with high cumulative mortality and morbidity in infected animals. Understanding the mechanism of the response of hosts to WSSV infection is necessary, which is useful for effective prevention in controlling infection. In this review, we summarize the participation of signaling pathways (toll, immune deficiency, JAK/STAT, endocytosis, mitogen-activated protein kinase, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, cGAS-STING, Wingless/Integrated signal transduction, and prophenoloxidase (proPO) cascade) and the activity of cells (apoptosis, autophagy, as well as, reactive oxygen species and antioxidant enzymes) in the cellular-mediated immune response of crustaceans during WSSV infection. The information presented in this current review is important for a better understanding of the mechanism of the response of hosts to pathogens. Additionally, this provides a piece of basic knowledge for discovering approaches to strengthen the immune system and resistance of cultured animals against viral infections.

miRNome expression analysis in canine diffuse large B-cell lymphoma

Introduction

Lymphoma is a common canine cancer with translational relevance to human disease. Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most frequent subtype, contributing to almost fifty percent of clinically recognized lymphoma cases. Identifying new biomarkers capable of early diagnosis and monitoring DLBCL is crucial for enhancing remission rates. This research seeks to advance our knowledge of the molecular biology of DLBCL by analyzing the expression of microRNAs, which regulate gene expression by negatively impacting gene expression via targeted RNA degradation or translational repression. The stability and accessibility of microRNAs make them appropriate biomarkers for the diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring of diseases.

Methods

We extracted and sequenced microRNAs from ten fresh-frozen lymph node tissue samples (six DLBCL and four non-neoplastic).

Results

Small RNA sequencing data analysis revealed 35 differently expressed miRNAs (DEMs) compared to controls. RT-qPCR confirmed that 23/35 DEMs in DLBCL were significantly upregulated (n = 14) or downregulated (n = 9). Statistical significance was determined by comparing each miRNA's average expression fold-change (2-Cq) between the DLCBL and healthy groups by applying the unpaired parametric Welch's 2-sample t-test and false discovery rate (FDR). The predicted target genes of the DEMs were mainly enriched in the PI3K-Akt-MAPK pathway.

Discussion

Our data point to the potential value of miRNA signatures as diagnostic biomarkers and serve as a guideline for subsequent experimental studies to determine the targets and functions of these altered miRNAs in canine DLBCL.

The significance of ERK5 catalytic-independent functions in disease pathways

Extracellular signal-regulated kinase 5 (ERK5), also known as BMK1 or MAPK7, represents a recent addition to the classical mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) family. This family includes well-known members such as ERK1/2, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK), as well as atypical MAPKs such as ERK3, ERK4, ERK7 (ERK8), and Nemo-like kinase (NLK). Comprehensive reviews available elsewhere provide detailed insights into ERK5, which interested readers can refer to for in-depth knowledge (Nithianandarajah-Jones et al., 2012; Monti et al., Cancers (Basel), 2022, 14). The primary aim of this review is to emphasize the essential characteristics of ERK5 and shed light on the intricate nature of its activation, with particular attention to the catalytic-independent functions in disease pathways.

The Therapeutic Values of IL-7/IL-7R and the Recombinant Derivatives in Glioma: A Narrative Review

Interleukin-7 (IL-7) is essential for maintaining the immune system's defense functions by regulating the development and homeostasis of lymphocytes. Findings have shown the high efficacy of IL-7/IL-7 receptor (IL-7R)-based immunotherapy on various malignancies, with confirmation in both animal models and humans. In recent years, the progression-free survival and overall survival of patients suffering from gliomas significantly increased by introducing C7R-expressing chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells and long-acting IL-7 agonists such as NT-I7 (rhIL-7-hyFc, Efineptakin alfa). However, the effect of IL-7-based immunotherapies on the resistance of tumor cells to chemotherapy (when used simultaneously with chemotherapy agents) is still ambiguous and requires further studies. This article first reviews the pathophysiological roles of IL-7/IL-7R in tumors, focusing on gliomas. Subsequently, it discusses the therapeutic values of IL-7/IL-7R and the recombinant derivatives in gliomas.

Genome-wide identification and immune response analysis of mitogen-activated protein kinase cascades in tea geometrid, Ectropis grisescens Warren (Geometridae, Lepidoptera)

BACKGROUND

Tea geometrid Ectropis grisescens (Geometridae: Lepidoptera), is one of the most destructive defoliators in tea plantations in China. The MAPK cascade is known to be an evolutionarily conserved signaling module, acting as pivotal cores of host-pathogen interactions. Although the chromosome-level reference genome of E. grisescens was published, the whole MAPK cascade gene family has not been fully identified yet, especially the expression patterns of MAPK cascade gene family members upon an ecological biopesticide, Metarhizium anisopliae, remains to be understood.

RESULTS

In this study, we have identified 19 MAPK cascade gene family members in E. grisescens, including 5 MAPKs, 4 MAP2Ks, 8 MAP3Ks, and 2 MAP4Ks. The molecular evolution characteristics of the whole Eg-MAPK cascade gene family, including gene structures, protein structural organization, chromosomal localization, orthologs construction and gene duplication, were systematically investigated. Our results showed that the members of Eg-MAPK cascade gene family were unevenly distributed in 13 chromosomes, and the clustered members in each group shared similar structures of the genes and proteins. Gene expression data revealed that MAPK cascade genes were expressed in all four developmental stages of E. grisescens and were fairly and evenly distributed in four different larva tissues. Importantly, most of the MAPK cascade genes were induced or constitutively expressed upon M. anisopliae infection.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, the present study was one of few studies on MAPK cascade gene in E. grisescens. The characterization and expression profiles of Eg-MAPK cascades genes might help develop new ecofriendly biological insecticides to protect tea trees.

Gene expression analysis of the Tao kinase family of Ste20p-like map kinase kinase kinases during early embryonic development in Xenopus laevis

Development of the vertebrate embryo requires strict coordination of a highly complex series of signaling cascades, that drive cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, and the general morphogenetic program. Members of the Map kinase signaling pathway are repeatedly required throughout development to activate the downstream effectors, ERK, p38, and JNK. Regulation of these pathways occurs at many levels in the signaling cascade, with the Map3Ks playing an essential role in target selection. The thousand and one amino acid kinases (Taoks) are Map3Ks that have been shown to activate both p38 and JNK and are linked to neurodevelopment in both invertebrate and vertebrate organisms. In vertebrates, there are three Taok paralogs (Taok1, Taok2, and Taok3) which have not yet been ascribed a role in early development. Here we describe the spatiotemporal expression of Taok1, Taok2, and Taok3 in the model organism Xenopus laevis. The X. laevis Tao kinases share roughly 80% identity to each other, with the bulk of the conservation in the kinase domain. Taok1 and Taok3 are highly expressed in pre-gastrula and gastrula stage embryos, with initial expression localized to the animal pole and later expression in the ectoderm and mesoderm. All three Taoks are expressed in the neural and tailbud stages, with overlapping expression in the neural tube, notochord, and many anterior structures (including branchial arches, brain, otic vesicles, and eye). The expression patterns described here provide evidence that the Tao kinases may play a central role in early development, in addition to their function during neural development, and establish a framework to better understand the developmental roles of Tao kinase signaling.

LeishIF3d is a non-canonical cap-binding protein in Leishmania

Translation of most cellular mRNAs in eukaryotes proceeds through a cap-dependent pathway, whereby the cap-binding complex, eIF4F, anchors the pre-initiation complex at the 5' end of mRNAs driving translation initiation. The genome of Leishmania encodes a large repertoire of cap-binding complexes that fulfill a variety of functions possibly involved in survival along the life cycle. However, most of these complexes function in the promastigote life form that resides in the sand fly vector and decrease their activity in amastigotes, the mammalian life form. Here we examined the possibility that LeishIF3d drives translation in Leishmania using alternative pathways. We describe a non-canonical cap-binding activity of LeishIF3d and examine its potential role in driving translation. LeishIF3d is required for translation, as reducing its expression by a hemizygous deletion reduces the translation activity of the LeishIF3d(+/-) mutant cells. Proteomic analysis of the mutant cells highlights the reduced expression of flagellar and cytoskeletal proteins, as reflected in the morphological changes observed in the mutant cells. Targeted mutations in two predicted alpha helices diminish the cap-binding activity of LeishIF3d. Overall, LeishIF3d could serve as a driving force for alternative translation pathways, although it does not seem to offer an alternative pathway for translation in amastigotes.

Interplay of host and viral factors in inflammatory pathway mediated cytokine storm during RNA virus infection

RNA viruses always have been a serious concern for human health by causing several outbreaks, often pandemics. The excessive mortality and deaths associated with the outbreaks caused by these viruses were due to the excessive induction of pro-inflammatory cytokines leading to cytokine storm. Cytokines are important for cell-to-cell communication to maintain cell homeostasis. Disturbances of this homeostasis can lead to intricate chain reactions resulting in a massive release of cytokines. This could lead to a severe self-reinforcement of several feedback processes, which could eventually cause systemic harm, multiple organ failure, or death. Multiple inflammation-associated pathways were involved in the cytokine production and its regulation. Different RNA viruses induce these pathways through the interplay with their viral factors and host proteins and miRNAs regulating these pathways. This review will discuss the interplay of host proteins and miRNAs that can play an important role in the regulation of cytokine storm and the possible therapeutic potential of these molecules for the treatment and the challenges associated with the clinical translation.

Identification of crucial genes involved in thyroid cancer development

BACKGROUND

A malignancy of the endocrine system, one of the most common types, is thyroid cancer. It is proven that children who receive radiation treatment for leukemia or lymphoma are at a heightened risk of thyroid cancer due to low-dose radiation exposure throughout childhood. Several factors can increase the risk of thyroid cancer (ThyCa), such as chromosomal and genetic mutations, iodine intake, TSH levels, autoimmune thyroid disorders, estrogen, obesity, lifestyle changes, and environmental contaminants.

OBJECTIVES

The study aimed to identify a specific gene as an essential candidate for thyroid cancer progression. We might be able to focus on developing a better understanding of how thyroid cancer is inherited.

METHODS

The review article uses electronic databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Central. The most frequently associated genes with thyroid cancer found on PubMed were BAX, XRCC1, XRCC3, XPO5, IL-10, BRAF, RET, and K-RAS. To perform an electronic literature search, genes derived from DisGeNET: a database of gene-disease associations, including PRKAR1A, BRAF, RET, NRAS, and KRAS, are used.

CONCLUSION

Examining the genetics of thyroid cancer explicitly emphasizes the primary genes associated with the pathophysiology of young and older people with thyroid cancer. Developing such gene investigations at the beginning of the thyroid cancer development process can identify better outcomes and the most aggressive thyroid cancers.

Nomogram for Early Prediction of Parkinson's Disease Based on microRNA Profiles and Clinical Variables

BACKGROUND

Few efficient and simple models for the early prediction of Parkinson's disease (PD) exists.

OBJECTIVE

To develop and validate a novel nomogram for early identification of PD by incorporating microRNA (miRNA) expression profiles and clinical indicators.

METHODS

Expression levels of blood-based miRNAs and clinical variables from 1,284 individuals were downloaded from the Parkinson's Progression Marker Initiative database on June 1, 2022. Initially, the generalized estimating equation was used to screen candidate biomarkers of PD progression in the discovery phase. Then, the elastic net model was utilized for variable selection and a logistics regression model was constructed to establish a nomogram. Additionally, the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, decision curve analysis (DCA), and calibration curves were utilized to evaluate the performance of the nomogram.

RESULTS

An accurate and externally validated nomogram was constructed for predicting prodromal and early PD. The nomogram is easy to utilize in a clinical setting since it consists of age, gender, education level, and transcriptional score (calculated by 10 miRNA profiles). Compared with the independent clinical model or 10 miRNA panel separately, the nomogram was reliable and satisfactory because the area under the ROC curve achieved 0.72 (95% confidence interval, 0.68-0.77) and obtained a superior clinical net benefit in DCA based on external datasets. Moreover, calibration curves also revealed its excellent prediction power.

CONCLUSION

The constructed nomogram has potential for large-scale early screening of PD based upon its utility and precision.

Toward discovering a novel family of peptides targeting neuroinflammatory states of brain microglia and astrocytes

Microglia are immune-derived cells critical to the development and healthy function of the brain and spinal cord, yet are implicated in the active pathology of many neuropsychiatric disorders. A range of functional phenotypes associated with the healthy brain or disease states has been suggested from in vivo work and were modeled in vitro as surveying, reactive, and primed sub-types of primary rat microglia and mixed microglia/astrocytes. It was hypothesized that the biomolecular profile of these cells undergoes a phenotypical change as well, and these functional phenotypes were explored for potential novel peptide binders using a custom 7 amino acid-presenting M13 phage library (SX7) to identify unique peptides that bind differentially to these respective cell types. Surveying glia were untreated, reactive were induced with a lipopolysaccharide treatment, recovery was modeled with a potent anti-inflammatory treatment dexamethasone, and priming was determined by subsequently challenging the cells with interferon gamma. Microglial function was profiled by determining the secretion of cytokines and nitric oxide, and expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase. After incubation with the SX7 phage library, populations of SX7-positive microglia and/or astrocytes were collected using fluorescence-activated cell sorting, SX7 phage was amplified in Escherichia coli culture, and phage DNA was sequenced via next-generation sequencing. Binding validation was done with synthesized peptides via in-cell westerns. Fifty-eight unique peptides were discovered, and their potential functions were assessed using a basic local alignment search tool. Peptides potentially originated from proteins ranging in function from a variety of supportive glial roles, including synapse support and pruning, to inflammatory incitement including cytokine and interleukin activation, and potential regulation in neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders.

Bacterial protease alleviate chronic liver fibrosis induced by thioacetamide through suppression of hepatic stellate cells consequently decrease its proliferative index

In chronic liver diseases, liver fibrosis occurs due to excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) protein accumulation. Approximately 2 million deaths occur yearly due to liver disease, while cirrhosis is the 11th most common cause of death. Therefore, newer compounds or biomolecules must be synthesized to treat chronic liver diseases. In this aspect, the present study focuses on the assessment of the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant impact of Bacterial Protease (BP) produced by a new mutant strain of bacteria (Bacillus cereus S6-3/UM90) and 4,4'-(2,5-dimethoxy-1,4-phenylene) bis (1-(3-ethoxy phenyl)-1H-1,2,3-triazole) (DPET) in the treatment of early stage of liver fibrosis induced by thioacetamide (TAA). Sixty male rats were divided into six groups, ten rats each as follows: (1) Control group, (2) BP group, (3) TAA group, (4) TAA-Silymarin (S) group, (5) TAA-BP group, and (6) TAA-DPET group. Liver fibrosis significantly elevated liver function ALT, AST, and ALP, as well as anti-inflammatory interleukin 6 (IL-6) and VEGF. The oxidative stress parameters (MDA, SOD, and NO) were significantly increased with a marked reduction in GSH. Expression of MAPK and MCP-1 was unregulated in the TAA group, with downregulation of Nrf₂ was observed. TAA caused histopathological alterations associated with hepatic vacuolation and fibrosis, increasing collagen fibers and high immuno-expression of VEGF. On the other hand, treatment with BP successfully improved the severe effects of TAA on the liver and restored histological architecture. Our study concluded the protective potentials of BP for attenuating liver fibrosis and could be used as adjuvant therapy for treating hepatic fibrosis.

Oxymatrine and insulin resistance: Focusing on mechanistic intricacies involve in diabetes associated cardiomyopathy via SIRT1/AMPK and TGF-β signaling pathway

Cardiomyopathy (CDM) and related morbidity and mortality are increasing at an alarming rate, in large part because of the increase in the number of diabetes mellitus cases. The clinical consequence associated with CDM is heart failure (HF) and is considerably worse for patients with diabetes mellitus, as compared to nondiabetics. Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is characterized by structural and functional malfunctioning of the heart, which includes diastolic dysfunction followed by systolic dysfunction, myocyte hypertrophy, cardiac dysfunctional remodeling, and myocardial fibrosis. Indeed, many reports in the literature indicate that various signaling pathways, such as the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1), PI3K/Akt, and TGF-β/smad pathways, are involved in diabetes-related cardiomyopathy, which increases the risk of functional and structural abnormalities of the heart. Therefore, targeting these pathways augments the prevention as well as treatment of patients with DCM. Alternative pharmacotherapy, such as that using natural compounds, has been shown to have promising therapeutic effects. Thus, this article reviews the potential role of the quinazoline alkaloid, oxymatrine obtained from the Sophora flavescensin CDM associated with diabetes mellitus. Numerous studies have given a therapeutic glimpse of the role of oxymatrine in the multiple secondary complications related to diabetes, such as retinopathy, nephropathy, stroke, and cardiovascular complications via reductions in oxidative stress, inflammation, and metabolic dysregulation, which might be due to targeting signaling pathways, such as AMPK, SIRT1, PI3K/Akt, and TGF-β pathways. Thus, these pathways are considered central regulators of diabetes and its secondary complications, and targeting these pathways with oxymatrine might provide a therapeutic tool for the diagnosis and treatment of diabetes-associated cardiomyopathy.

Immunogenetic variations predict immune-related adverse events for PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors

BACKGROUND

PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors have brought remarkable benefits but can cause profound immune-related adverse events (irAEs). The host immunogenetic background is likely to play a role in irAE susceptibility. In this study, we aimed to identify potential immunogenetic biomarkers to predict irAEs.

METHODS

Patients with solid tumours receiving PD-1/PD-L1 blockade were recruited and followed up. Genes considered pivotal contributors to tumour-immunity and autoimmune diseases were screened out via protein-protein interaction network and Cytoscape. Consequently, thirty-nine variants in eighteen genes were genotyped using the multiplex genotyping assay. Association analysis between genetic variants and irAEs as well as irAEs-free survival was performed.

RESULTS

Four immunogenetic variants as predictive biomarkers of irAEs were identified. The C allele of Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 1 (MAPK1) rs3810610 (odds ratio [OR] = 1.495, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.093-2.044, P = 0.012) was a risk predictor while the A allele of PTPRC rs6428474 (OR = 0.717, 95% CI = 0.521-0.987, P = 0.041) was a protective factor for all-grade irAEs. The A allele of ADAD1 rs17388568 (OR = 2.599, 95% CI = 1.355-4.983, P = 0.003) increased the risk while the G allele of IL6 rs1800796 (OR = 0.425, 95% CI = 0.205-0.881, P = 0.018) protected patients from high-grade irAEs. Significant immunogenetic variants reached a similar tendency in PD-1 blockade or lung cancer subgroups. In multivariate Cox regression analysis, the MAPK1 rs3810610 was an independent factor regarding all-grade irAEs-free survival (CC versus CT or TT: hazard ratio [HR] = 0.71, 95% CI = 0.52-0.99, P = 0.042). ADAD1 rs17388568 (AA versus AG or GG: HR = 0.11, 95% CI = 0.025-0.49, P = 0.004) and IL6 rs1800796 (GG or GC versus CC: HR = 3.10, 95% CI = 1.315-7.29, P = 0.01) were independent variables for high-grade irAEs-free survival.

CONCLUSION

We first identified several immunogenetic polymorphisms associated with irAEs and irAEs-free survival in PD-1/PD-L1 blockade-treated tumour patients, and they may serve as potential predictive biomarkers.

Effect of Ginseng Sapogenin Protopanaxadiol-Enriched Rice (DJ-PPD) on Immunomodulation

Protopanaxadiol (PPD), a gut microbiome-induced ginseng metabolite, has positive immune effects. We previously reported the immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory effects of PPD-enricshed rice seed extracts in normal and inflammatory cell environments, respectively. In the present study, the immunomodulatory activity of PPD-enriched transgenic rice seed extract (DJ-PPD), which exhibited the highest immune-related activity among all available extracts, was compared with that of commercially synthesized 20s-PPD (S-PPD) and natural ginseng root extract (GE), in RAW264.7 cells. Compared with S-PPD and GE treatment, DJ-PPD treatment (i) significantly promoted NF-κB p65 and c-Jun N-terminal protein kinase (JNK) phosphorylation; (ii) upregulated IL-1β, IL-6, COX-2, TLR-4, and TNF-α expression; (iii) and increased prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) production. However, there were no significant differences in the effects of the three treatments containing PPD-type sapogenin or saponins on nitric oxide (NO) production and phagocytic activity. In the inflammatory cell environment, DJ-PPD treatment markedly decreased the production of LPS-induced inflammatory factors, including NO and PGE₂, as well as proinflammatory cytokine expression, by decreasing phosphorylated (p-)NF-κB p65, p-p38 MAPK, and p-JNK levels. Thus, DJ-PPD that does not require complex intestinal microbial processes to exert higher anti-inflammatory effects compared with S-PPD and GE. However, DJ-PPD exerted similar or higher immune-boosting effects (depending on inflammatory biomarkers) than S-PPD and GE. These findings indicate the potential of PPD-enriched transgenic rice as an alternative immunomodulatory agent.

Comprehensive analysis of long noncoding RNAs and lncRNA-mRNA networks in snakehead (Channa argus) response to Nocardia seriolae infection

Evidence has been demonstrated that lncRNAs are involved in a variety of immune responses in vertebrate. It has been demonstrated that immune-related lncRNAs play vital functions in immune regulation against infections in teleost. Nocardia seriolae, as one of the Gram-positive bacteria, can cause chronic systemic granulomatous disease for snakehead (Channa argus). However, how lncRNAs function in the immune regulation process once snakehead was infected with N. seriolae infection has not been studied so far. Accordingly, transcription landscapes of lncRNAs and mRNAs in snakehead were investigated. A total of 1,991 lncRNA were obtained. Totally, we predicted 57,584 co-expression and 16,047 co-location lncRNA-mRNA pairs. To further analyze the potential function of these lncRNAs, GO enrichment analysis and KEGG signal pathways were performed on the target mRNAs of these differently expressed lncRNAs, suggesting that lncRNAs may play essential roles in modulating mRNA expression levels, and subsequently trigger downstream immune signaling pathways to regulate the immune response in snakehead. In addition, 9 DEmRNA and 3 lncRNAs were randomly selected for qRT-PCR analyzed, which confirmed the accuracy of transcriptome data. These results can provide novel knowledge about lncRNAs in immune responses process in snakehead, and can serve as important resources for further investigating the roles of lncRNAs during pathogen infections in teleost.

Novel thiazolidines of potential anti-proliferation properties against esophageal squamous cell carcinoma via ERK pathway

The discovery of a new class of extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (ERK) inhibitors has been achieved via developing novel 2-imino-5-arylidene-thiazolidine analogues. A novel synthetic method employing a solid support-mediated reaction was used to construct the targeted thiazolidines through a cascade reaction with good yields. The chemical and physical stability of the new thiazolidine library has successfully been achieved by blocking the labile C5-position to aerobic oxidation. A cell viability study was performed using esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cell lines (KYSE-30 and KYSE-150) and non-tumorous esophageal epithelial cell lines (HET-1A and NES-G4T) through utilization of an MTT assay, revealing that (Z)-5-((Z)-4-bromobenzylidene)-N-(4-methoxy-2-nitrophenyl)-4,4-dimethylthiazolidin-2-imine (6g) was the best compound among the synthesized library in terms of selectivity. DAPI staining experiments were performed to visualize the morphological changes and to investigate the apoptotic activity. Moreover, western blots were used to probe the mechanism/pathway behind the observed activity/selectivity of thiazolidine 6g which established selective inhibition of phosphorylation in the ERK pathway. Molecular modeling techniques have been utilized to confirm the observed activity. A molecular docking study revealed similar binding interactions between the synthesized thiazolidines and reported co-crystalized inhibitors with ERK proteins. Thus, the present study provides a starting point for the development of interesting bioactive 2-imino-5-arylidene-thiazolidines.

Polypropylene nanoplastic exposure leads to lung inflammation through p38-mediated NF-κB pathway due to mitochondrial damage

BACKGROUND

Polypropylene (PP) is used in various products such as disposable containers, spoons, and automobile parts. The disposable masks used for COVID-19 prevention mainly comprise PP, and the disposal of such masks is concerning because of the potential environmental pollution. Recent reports have suggested that weathered PP microparticles can be inhaled, however, the inhalation toxicology of PP microparticles is poorly understood.

RESULTS

Inflammatory cell numbers, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and the levels of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in PP-instilled mice (2.5 or 5 mg/kg) increased significantly compared to with those in the control. Histopathological analysis of the lung tissue of PP-stimulated mice revealed lung injuries, including the infiltration of inflammatory cells into the perivascular/parenchymal space, alveolar epithelial hyperplasia, and foamy macrophage aggregates. The in vitro study indicated that PP stimulation causes mitochondrial dysfunction including mitochondrial depolarization and decreased adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels. PP stimulation led to cytotoxicity, ROS production, increase of inflammatory cytokines, and cell deaths in A549 cells. The results showed that PP stimulation increased the p-p38 and p-NF-κB protein levels both in vivo and in vitro, while p-ERK and p-JNK remained unchanged. Interestingly, the cytotoxicity that was induced by PP exposure was regulated by p38 and ROS inhibition in A549 cells.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that PP stimulation may contribute to inflammation pathogenesis via the p38 phosphorylation-mediated NF-κB pathway as a result of mitochondrial damage.

Diabetic Neuropathy: Review on Molecular Mechanisms

Diabetic mellitus is a worldwide endocrine and metabolic disorder with insulin insensitivity or deficiency or both whose prevalence could rise up to 592 million by 2035. Consistent hyperglycemia leads to one of the most common comorbidities like Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN). DPN is underlined with unpleasant sensory experience, such as tingling and burning sensation, hyperalgesia, numbness, etc. Globally, 50-60% of the diabetic population is suffering from such symptoms as microvascular complications. Consistent hyperglycemia during DM causes activation/inhibition of various pathways playing important role in the homeostasis of neurons and other cells. Disruption of these pathways results into apoptosis and mitochondrial dysfunctions, causing neuropathy. Among these, pathways like Polyol and PARP are some of the most intensively studied ones whereas those like Wnt pathway, Mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK), mTOR pathway are comparatively newly discovered. Understanding of these pathways and their role in pathophysiology of DN underlines a few molecules of immense therapeutic value. The inhibitors or activators of these molecules can be of therapeutic importance in the management of DPN. This review, hence, focuses on these underlying molecular mechanisms intending to provide therapeutically effective molecular targets for the treatment of DPN.

MAP3K1 rs889312 polymorphism and cancer prognosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Accumulating studies have evaluated the association between MAP3K1 polymorphisms and cancer prognosis. However, the results of these studies are conflicting. Given the potential impact of MAP3K1 rs889312 SNP on the prognosis of various cancers, this meta-analysis was performed to obtain solid and credible evidence.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

This study was performed according to the PRISMA 2020 statement. A comprehensive article search was conducted to find and select articles from multiple databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library, published up to 15th September 2022. The data analysis was performed with Review Manager v5.2. Pooled HR with its 95% CI and p-value was calculated where HR >1 suggests worse/poor survival and HR <1 suggests better survival of cancer patients.

RESULTS

A total of five articles comprising 24 439 patients were included for both qualitative and quantitative data synthesis. It was found that only the dominant genetic model (AC + CC vs. AA) showed a statistically significant poor overall survival for MAP3K1 rs889312 polymorphism (HR = 1.25, 95% CI = 1.06-1.47, p = .01). In addition, publication bias analysis by the Egger's test and the Begg-Mazumdar test reported no significant bias in the analysis of overall survival (p > .05).

CONCLUSIONS

The present study concludes that MAP3K1 gene rs889312 polymorphism plays a prognostic role in the survival of cancer patients. However, future research is recommended that will analyze more MAP3K SNPs along with rs889312, which may reveal more credible outcomes in terms of cancer prognosis.

Transcriptomic Analysis Insight into the Immune Modulation during the Interaction of Ophiocordyceps sinensis and Hepialus xiaojinensis

Ophiocordyceps sinensis (Berk.) is an entomopathogenic fungus that can infect the larva of the ghost moth, Hepialus xiaojinensis, causing mummification after more than one year. This prolonged infection provides a valuable model for studying the immunological interplay between an insect host and a pathogenic fungus. A comparative transcriptome analysis of pre-infection (L) and one-year post-infection (IL) larvae was performed to investigate the immune response in the host. Here, a total of 59,668 unigenes were obtained using Illumina Sequencing in IL and L. Among the 345 identified immune-related genes, 83 out of 86 immune-related differentially expressed genes (DEGs) had a much higher expression in IL than in L. Furthermore, the immune-related DEGs were classified as pathogen recognition receptors (PRRs), signal modulators or transductors, and immune effector molecules. Serpins and protease inhibitors were found to be upregulated in the late phase of infection, suppressing the host’s immune response. Based on the above analysis, the expression levels of most immune-related genes would return to the baseline with the immune response being repressed in the late phase of infection, leading to the fungal immunological tolerance after prolonged infection. Meanwhile, the transcriptomes of IL and the mummified larva (ML) were compared to explore O. sinensis invasion. A total of 1408 novel genes were identified, with 162 of them annotated with putative functions. The gene families likely implicated in O. sinensis pathogenicity have been identified, primarily including serine carboxypeptidase, peroxidase, metalloprotease peptidase, aminopeptidases, cytochrome P450, and oxidoreductase. Furthermore, quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) was used to assess the expression levels of some critical genes that were involved in immune response and fungal pathogenicity. The results showed that their expression levels were consistent with the transcriptomes. Taken together, our findings offered a comprehensive and precise transcriptome study to understand the immune defense in H. xiaojinensis and O. sinensis invasion, which would accelerate the large-scale artificial cultivation of this medicinal fungus.

Toxic effects of pesticides on cellular and humoral immunity: an overview

People are exposed to pesticides through food, drinking water, and the environment. These compounds are associated with several disorders, such as inflammatory diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, and a condition related to metabolic syndrome. The immunotoxicants or immunotoxic compounds can cause a wide variety of effects on immune function, altering humoral immunity and cell-mediated immunity, resulting in adverse effects to the body. Here, immune system disorders are highlighted because they are closely linked to multiple organs, including the nervous, endocrine, reproductive, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems, leading to transient or permanent changes. Therefore, this study reviewed the mechanisms involved in the immunotoxicity of fungicides, herbicides, and insecticides in cells, animals, and humans in the past 11 years. According to the studies analyzed, the pesticides interfere with innate and adaptive immune functions, but the effects observed mainly on cellular and humoral immunity were highlighted. These compounds affected specific immune cells, causing apoptosis, changes in factor nuclear kappa B (NF-κB) expression, pro-inflammatory factors interleukin 6 (IL-6), interleukin 8 (IL-8), interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), chemokines (CXCL-c1c), and anti-inflammatory factor, such as interleukin 10 (IL-10). To verify the threats of these compounds, new evaluations with immunotoxicological biomarkers are necessary. HighlightsPesticides interfere with the innate and adaptive immune response.Cells, animals and human studies demonstrate the immunotoxicity of pesticides in the cellular and humoral immune response.Fungicides, herbicides, and insecticides alter the immune system by various mechanisms, such as pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory factors.

Alpha-pyrrolidinopentiothiophenone (α-PVT) activates the TLR-NF-κB-MAPK signaling pathway and proinflammatory cytokine production and induces behavioral sensitization in mice

Synthetic cathinones are chemical derivatives of cathinone, a structural analog to amphetamine. It has been shown that synthetic cathinones have abuse potentials similar to psychomotor stimulants such as amphetamine and induce neuroinflammation. Among the novel synthetic cathinones, α-pyrrolidinopentiothiophenone (α-PVT) has been known to produce rewarding and reinforcing effects in rodent models. However, it has not yet been determined whether α-PVT induces neuroinflammation in vivo. In the present study, mice were exposed to repeated saline or α-PVT (20 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) for 7 days to test changes in locomotor activity and neuroinflammation-related factors in the striatum of mice. Repeated administration of α-PVT significantly induced locomotor sensitization. In addition, repeated α-PVT administration significantly increased the number of microglial cells, accompanied by marked increases in TLR1, TLR4, TLR6, and TLR7 mRNA levels in the striatum of mice. Furthermore, acute or repeated α-PVT administration increased the levels of phosphorylated NF-κB, ERK, p38, and JNK MAPK activation and repeated α-PVT, but not acute, increased the levels of TNF-α and IL-6 mRNA in the striatum of mice. Finally, systemic administration of TAK-242 (5 mg/kg, i.p.) or MPLA (50 μg/kg, i.p.), each an inhibitor or activator of TLR4, did not change α-PVT-induced behavioral sensitization in mice. These results suggest that the activation of TLR4 by repeated α-PVT administration may lead to neuroinflammation via TLR-mediated NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways and the production of TNF-α and IL-6 in the striatum of mice, at least without the regulation of behavioral sensitization.

Proteomics unveil a central role for peroxisomes in butyrate assimilation of the heterotrophic Chlorophyte alga Polytomella sp

Volatile fatty acids found in effluents of the dark fermentation of biowastes can be used for mixotrophic growth of microalgae, improving productivity and reducing the cost of the feedstock. Microalgae can use the acetate in the effluents very well, but butyrate is poorly assimilated and can inhibit growth above 1 gC.L-1. The non-photosynthetic chlorophyte alga Polytomella sp. SAG 198.80 was found to be able to assimilate butyrate fast. To decipher the metabolic pathways implicated in butyrate assimilation, quantitative proteomics study was developed comparing Polytomella sp. cells grown on acetate and butyrate at 1 gC.L-1. After statistical analysis, a total of 1772 proteins were retained, of which 119 proteins were found to be overaccumulated on butyrate vs. only 46 on acetate, indicating that butyrate assimilation necessitates additional metabolic steps. The data show that butyrate assimilation occurs in the peroxisome via the β-oxidation pathway to produce acetyl-CoA and further tri/dicarboxylic acids in the glyoxylate cycle. Concomitantly, reactive oxygen species defense enzymes as well as the branched amino acid degradation pathway were strongly induced. Although no clear dedicated butyrate transport mechanism could be inferred, several membrane transporters induced on butyrate are identified as potential condidates. Metabolic responses correspond globally to the increased needs for central cofactors NAD, ATP and CoA, especially in the peroxisome and the cytosol.

Potential of Epidermal Growth Factor-like Peptide from the Sea Cucumber Stichopus horrens to Increase the Growth of Human Cells: In Silico Molecular Docking Approach

The sea cucumber is prominent as a traditional remedy among Asians for wound healing due to its high capacity for regeneration after expulsion of its internal organs. A short peptide consisting of 45 amino acids from transcriptome data of Stichopus horrens (Sh-EGFl-1) shows a convincing capability to promote the growth of human melanoma cells. Molecular docking of Sh-EGFl-1 peptide with human epidermal growth factor receptor (hEGFR) exhibited a favorable intermolecular interaction, where most of the Sh-EGFl-1 residues interacted with calcium binding-like domains. A superimposed image of the docked structure against a human EGF–EGFR crystal model also gave an acceptable root mean square deviation (RMSD) value of less than 1.5 Å. Human cell growth was significantly improved by Sh-EGFl-1 peptide at a lower concentration in a cell proliferation assay. Gene expression profiling of the cells indicated that Sh-EGFl-1 has activates hEGFR through five epidermal growth factor signaling pathways; phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), phospholipase C gamma (PLC-gamma), Janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK-STAT) and Ras homologous (Rho) pathways. All these pathways triggered cells’ proliferation, differentiation, survival and re-organization of the actin cytoskeleton. Overall, this marine-derived, bioactive peptide has the capability to promote proliferation and could be further explored as a cell-growth-promoting agent for biomedical and bioprocessing applications.

Exploring actinomycetes natural products to identify potential multi-target inhibitors against Leishmania donovani

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a neglected tropical disease that mainly affects the poor population of the Indian, African, and South American subcontinent. The increasing resistance to antimonial and miltefosine and frequent toxicity of amphotericin B drives an urgent need to develop an anti-leishmanial drug with excellent efficacy and safety profile. In this study, three sequential docking protocols (HTVS, SP, and XP) were performed to screen the secondary metabolites (n = 6519) from the actinomycetes source against five key proteins involved in the metabolic pathway of Leishmania donovani. Those proteins were adenine phosphoribosyltransferase (PDB ID: 1QB7), trypanothione reductase (PDB ID: 2JK6), N-myristoyl transferase (PDB ID: 2WUU), pteridine reductase (PDB ID: 2XOX), and MAP kinase (PDB ID: 4QNY). Although the binding energy of top ligands was predicted using the MM-GBSA module of the Schrödinger suite. SP and XP docking mode resulted in 55 multi-targeted ligands against L donovani. MM-GBSA analysis selected the top 18 ligands with good-binding affinity and the binding-free energy for four proteins, as mentioned earlier, when compared with the miltefosine, paromomycin, and a reference ligand selected for each target. Finally, molecular dynamics simulation, post-MD-binding-free energy (MM-PBSA), and principal component analysis (PCA) proposed three best ligands (Adenosine pentaphosphate, Atetra P, and GDP-4-keto-6-deoxymannose) qualifying the above screening parameters and confirmed as a potential drug candidate to fight against Leishmania donovani parasites.

Expression Profile Analysis of Circular RNAs in Leishmaniasis

Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease that seriously influences global public health. Among all the parasitic diseases, leishmaniasis is the third most common cause of morbidity after malaria and schistosomiasis. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a new type of noncoding RNAs that are involved in the regulation of biological and developmental processes. However, there is no published research on the function of circRNAs in leishmaniasis. This is the first study to explore the expression profiles of circRNAs in leishmaniasis. GO and KEGG analyses were performed to determine the potential function of the host genes of differentially expressed circRNAs. CircRNA–miRNA–mRNA (ceRNA) regulatory network analysis and protein–protein interaction (PPI) networks were analyzed by R software and the STRING database, respectively. A total of 4664 significant differentially expressed circRNAs were identified and compared to those in control groups; a total of 1931 were up-regulated and 2733 were down-regulated. The host genes of differentially expressed circRNAs were enriched in ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis, endocytosis, the MAPK signaling pathway, renal cell carcinoma, autophagy and the ErbB signaling pathway. Then, five hub genes (BRCA1, CREBBP, EP300, PIK3R1, and CRK) were identified. This study provides new evidence of the change of differentially expressed circRNAs and its potential function in leishmaniasis. These results may provide novel insights and evidence for the diagnosis and treatment of leishmaniasis.

The gene knockout of angiotensin II type 1a receptor improves high-fat diet-induced obesity in rat via promoting adipose lipolysis

Aims

The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is over-activated and the serum angiotensin II (Ang II) level increased in obese patients, while their correlations were incompletely understood. This study aims to explore the role of Ang II in diet-induced obesity by focusing on adipose lipid anabolism and catabolism.

Methods

Rat model of AT1aR gene knockout were established to investigate the special role of Ang II on adipose lipid metabolism. Wild-type (WT) and AT1aR gene knockout (AT1aR^-/-) SD rats were fed with normal diet or high-fat diet for 12 weeks. Adipose morphology and adipose lipid synthesis and lipolysis were examined.

Results

AT1aR deficiency activated lipolysis-related enzymes and increased the levels of NEFAs and glycerol released from adipose tissue in high-fat diet rats, while did not affect triglycerides synthesis. Besides, AT1aR knockout promoted energy expenditure and fatty acids oxidation in adipose tissue. cAMP levels and PKA phosphorylation in the adipose tissue were significantly increased in AT1aR^-/- rats fed with high-fat. Activated PKA could promote adipose lipolysis and thus improved adipose histomorphology and insulin sensitivity in high-fat diet rats.

Conclusions

AT1aR deficiency alleviated adipocyte hypertrophy in high-fat diet rats by promoting adipose lipolysis probably via cAMP/PKA pathway, and thereby delayed the onset of obesity and related metabolic diseases.

Plant Responses to Herbivory, Wounding, and Infection

Plants have various self-defense mechanisms against biotic attacks, involving both physical and chemical barriers. Physical barriers include spines, trichomes, and cuticle layers, whereas chemical barriers include secondary metabolites (SMs) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Complex interactions between plants and herbivores occur. Plant responses to insect herbivory begin with the perception of physical stimuli, chemical compounds (orally secreted by insects and herbivore-induced VOCs) during feeding. Plant cell membranes then generate ion fluxes that create differences in plasma membrane potential (Vm), which provokes the initiation of signal transduction, the activation of various hormones (e.g., jasmonic acid, salicylic acid, and ethylene), and the release of VOCs and SMs. This review of recent studies of plant–herbivore–infection interactions focuses on early and late plant responses, including physical barriers, signal transduction, SM production as well as epigenetic regulation, and phytohormone responses.

Growth hormone modulates Trypanosoma cruzi infection in vitro

OBJECTIVE

Chagas disease (CD) is caused by the protozoan parasite, Trypanosoma cruzi. It affects 7 to 8 million people worldwide and leads to approximately 50,000 deaths per year. In vitro and in vivo studies had demonstrated that Trypanosoma cruziinfection causes an imbalance in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis that is accompanied by a progressive decrease in growth hormone (GH) and prolactin (PRL) production. In humans, inactivating mutations in the GH receptor gene cause Laron Syndrome (LS), an autosomal recessive disorder. Affected subjects are short, have increased adiposity, decreased insulin-like growth factor-I (IGFI), increased serum GH levels, are highly resistant to diabetes and cancer, and display slow cognitive decline. In addition, CD incidence in these individuals is diminished despite living in highly endemic areas. Consequently, we decided to investigate the in vitro effect of GH/IGF-I on T. cruzi infection.

DESIGN

We first treated the parasite and/or host cells with different peptide hormones including GH, IGFI, and PRL. Then, we treated cells using different combinations of GH/IGF-I attempting to mimic the GH/IGF-I serum levels observed in LS subjects.

RESULTS

We found that exogenous GH confers protection against T. cruzi infection. Moreover, this effect is mediated by GH and not IGFI. The combination of relatively high GH (50 ng/ml) and low IGF-I (20 ng/ml), mimicking the hormonal pattern seen in LS individuals, consistently decreased T. cruzi infection in vitro.

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of relatively high GH and low IGF-I serum levels in LS individuals may be an underlying condition providing partial protection against T. cruzi infection.

An Eimeria maxima Antigen: Its Functions on Stimulating Th1 Cytokines and Protective Efficacy Against Coccidiosis

A consensus is that the Th1 immune response plays a predominant role against avian coccidiosis. Therefore, an antigen with the ability to induce Th1 cytokine responses is an ideal candidate for the development of coccidiosis vaccines. In our previous study, EmARM-β, a Th1 cytokines-stimulating antigen, was screened from the cDNA expression library of Eimeria maxima (E. maxima). Herein, we verified its stimulative effects on Th1 cytokine productions and evaluated its protective efficacy against E. maxima infection. Recombinant EmARM-β protein was expressed, and eukaryotic expression plasmid pVAX1-EmARM-β was also constructed for the immunization of birds. An immunofluorescence assay was performed to detect the native form of EmARM-β protein in the stage of sporozoites. Expressions of specific transcription factors and cytokines in immunized chickens were measured using qPCR and ELISA to verify its stimulating function on Th1 cytokines. Specific IgG antibody levels and T lymphocyte subpopulation in the immunized chickens were detected using ELISA and indirect flow cytometry to determine induced immune responses. The results showed that EmARM-β native protein is massively expressed in the sporozoites stage of E. maxima. Effective stimulation from the EmARM-β antigen to T-bet and Th1 cytokines (IL-2 and IFN-γ) was observed in vivo. After being immunized with rEmARM-β or pVAX1-EmARM-β, significant promotion to the proportion of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and the level of antigen-specific IgG antibodies in immunized chickens was also observed. Furthermore, vaccination with rEmARM-β antigen or pVAX1-EmARM-β resulted in alleviated weight loss and enteric lesion, reduced oocyst output, and higher anticoccidial index (ACI) in challenged birds. These results indicate that EmARM-β antigen can effectively stimulate the expression of Th1 cytokines and initiate host immune responses, providing moderate protective efficacy against E. maxima. Notably, EmARM-β protein is a promising candidate for developing a novel anticoccidial vaccine.

Deciphering the Molecular Mechanism Underlying African Animal Trypanosomiasis by Means of the 1000 Bull Genomes Project Genomic Dataset

Simple Summary

Climate change is increasing the risk of spreading vector-borne diseases such as African Animal Trypanosomiasis (AAT), which is causing major economic losses, especially in sub-Saharan African countries. Mainly considering this disease, we have investigated transcriptomic and genomic data from two cattle breeds, namely Boran and N‘Dama, where the former is known for its susceptibility and the latter one for its tolerance to the AAT. Despite the rich literature on this disease, there is still a need to investigate underlying genetic mechanisms to decipher the complex interplay of regulatory SNPs (rSNPs), their corresponding gene expression profiles and the downstream effectors associated with the AAT disease. The findings of this study complement our previous results, which mainly involve the upstream events, including transcription factors (TFs) and their co-operations as well as master regulators. Moreover, our investigation of significant rSNPs and effectors found in the liver, spleen and lymph node tissues of both cattle breeds could enhance the understanding of distinct mechanisms leading to either resistance or susceptibility of cattle breeds.

Abstract

African Animal Trypanosomiasis (AAT) is a neglected tropical disease and spreads by the vector tsetse fly, which carries the infectious Trypanosoma sp. in their saliva. Particularly, this parasitic disease affects the health of livestock, thereby imposing economic constraints on farmers, costing billions of dollars every year, especially in sub-Saharan African countries. Mainly considering the AAT disease as a multistage progression process, we previously performed upstream analysis to identify transcription factors (TFs), their co-operations, over-represented pathways and master regulators. However, downstream analysis, including effectors, corresponding gene expression profiles and their association with the regulatory SNPs (rSNPs), has not yet been established. Therefore, in this study, we aim to investigate the complex interplay of rSNPs, corresponding gene expression and downstream effectors with regard to the AAT disease progression based on two cattle breeds: trypanosusceptible Boran and trypanotolerant N’Dama. Our findings provide mechanistic insights into the effectors involved in the regulation of several signal transduction pathways, thereby differentiating the molecular mechanism with regard to the immune responses of the cattle breeds. The effectors and their associated genes (especially MAPKAPK5, CSK, DOK2, RAC1 and DNMT1) could be promising drug candidates as they orchestrate various downstream regulatory cascades in both cattle breeds.

Ceramide synthase 6 impacts T-cell allogeneic response and graft-versus-host disease through regulating N-RAS/ERK pathway

Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT) is an effective immunotherapy for various hematologic malignances, predominantly through potent graft-versus-leukemia (GVL) effect. However, the mortality after allo-HCT is because of relapse of primary malignancy and followed by graft-vs-host-disease (GVHD) as a major cause of transplant-related mortality. Hence, strategies to limit GVHD while preserving the GVL effect are highly desirable. Ceramide, which serves a central role in sphingolipid metabolism, is generated by ceramide synthases (CerS1–6). In this study, we found that genetic or pharmacologic targeting of CerS6 prevented and reversed chronic GVHD (cGVHD). Furthermore, specific inhibition of CerS6 with ST1072 significantly ameliorated acute GVHD (aGVHD) while preserving the GVL effect, which differed from FTY720 that attenuated aGVHD but impaired GVL activity. At the cellular level, blockade of CerS6 restrained donor T cells from migrating into GVHD target organs and preferentially reduced activation of donor CD4 T cells. At the molecular level, CerS6 was required for optimal TCR signaling, CD3/PKCθ co-localization, and subsequent N-RAS activation and ERK signaling, especially on CD4⁺ T cells. The current study provides rationale and means for targeting CerS6 to control GVHD and leukemia relapse, which would enhance the efficacy of allo-HCT as an immunotherapy for hematologic malignancies in the clinic.

Can Neuropeptide S Be an Indicator for Assessing Anxiety in Psychiatric Disorders?

Neuropeptide S (NPS) is a neuropeptide primarily produced within three brainstem regions including locus coeruleus, trigeminal nerve nucleus, and lateral parabrachial nucleus. NPS is involved in the central regulation of stress, fear, and cognitive integration. NPS is a mediator of behavior, seeking food, and the proliferation of new adipocytes in the setting of obesity. So far, current research of NPS is only limited to animal models; data regarding its functions in humans is still scarce. Animal studies showed that anxiety and appetite might be suppressed by the action of NPS. The discovery of this neuromodulator peptide is effective considering its strong anxiolytic action, which has the potential to be an interesting therapeutic option in treating neuropsychiatric disorders. In this article, we aimed to analyze the pharmaceutical properties of NPS as well as its influence on several neurophysiological aspects-modulation of behavior, association with obesity, as well as its potential application in rehabilitation and treatment of psychiatric disorders.

The Molecular Mechanism of Hepatic Lipid Metabolism Disorder Caused by NaAsO2 through Regulating the ERK/PPAR Signaling Pathway

Chronic arsenic exposure is a risk factor for human fatty liver disease, and the ERK signaling pathway plays an important role in the regulation of liver lipid metabolism. However, whether ERK plays a role in the progression of arsenic-induced liver lipid metabolism disorder and the specific mechanism remain unclear. Here, by constructing a rat model of liver lipid metabolism disorder induced by chronic arsenic exposure, we demonstrated that ERK might regulate arsenic-induced liver lipid metabolism disorders through the PPAR signaling pathway. Arsenic could upregulate the expression of PPARγ and CD36 in the rat liver, decrease the expression of PPARα and CPT-1 in the rat liver, increase the organ coefficient of the rat liver, decrease the content of TG in rat serum, and promote fat deposition in the rat liver. In the arsenic-induced rat model of hepatic lipid metabolism disorder, we found that the expression of p-ERK was increased. In order to further explore whether the ERK signaling pathway was involved in arsenic-induced liver lipid metabolism disorder, we exposed L-02 cells to different arsenic concentrations, and the results showed that arsenic significantly increased the expression of P-ERK in L-02 cells in a dose-dependent manner. We further treated L-02 cells with ERK inhibitors and found that the expression of TG, PPARα, and CPT-1 in L-02 cells increased, while the expression of P-ERK, PPARγ, and CD36 decreased. In conclusion, ERK may be involved in arsenic-induced liver lipid metabolism disorder by regulating the PPAR signaling pathway. These findings are expected to provide a new targeting strategy for arsenic-induced liver lipid metabolism disorder.

The Complex Biology of the Obesity-Induced, Metastasis-Promoting Tumor Microenvironment in Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers in women contributing to cancer-related death in the advanced world. Apart from the menopausal status, the trigger for developing breast cancer may vary widely from race to lifestyle factors. Epidemiological studies refer to obesity-associated metabolic changes as a critical risk factor behind the progression of breast cancer. The plethora of signals arising due to obesity-induced changes in adipocytes present in breast tumor microenvironment, significantly affect the behavior of adjacent breast cells. Adipocytes from white adipose tissue are currently recognized as an active endocrine organ secreting different bioactive compounds. However, due to excess energy intake and increased fat accumulation, there are morphological followed by secretory changes in adipocytes, which make the breast microenvironment proinflammatory. This proinflammatory milieu not only increases the risk of breast cancer development through hormone conversion, but it also plays a role in breast cancer progression through the activation of effector proteins responsible for the biological phenomenon of metastasis. The aim of this review is to present a comprehensive picture of the complex biology of obesity-induced changes in white adipocytes and demonstrate the relationship between obesity and breast cancer progression to metastasis.

Bioprospecting of microalgae metabolites against cytokine storm syndrome during COVID-19

In viral respiratory infections, disrupted pathophysiological outcomes have been attributed to hyper-activated and unresolved inflammation responses of the immune system. Integration between available drugs and natural therapeutics have reported benefits in relieving inflammation-related physiological outcomes and microalgae may be a feasible source from which to draw from against future coronavirus-infections. Microalgae represent a large and diverse source of chemically functional compounds such as carotenoids and lipids that possess various bioactivities, including anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore in this paper, some implicated pathways causing inflammation in viral respiratory infections are discussed and juxtaposed along with available research done on several microalgal metabolites. Additionally, the therapeutic properties of some known anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immunomodulating compounds sourced from microalgae are reported for added clarity.