ErHuang Formula Improves Renal Fibrosis in Diabetic Nephropathy Rats by Inhibiting CXCL6/JAK/STAT3 Signaling Pathway

Sensitive sensing platform based on Co, Mo doped electrospun nanofibers for simultaneous electrochemical detection of dopamine and uric acid

Abnormal levels of dopamine (DA) and uric acid (UA) in the human body are valuable indicators for monitoring human health, as they are associated with certain diseases. Therefore, it is crucial to develop sensitive and simultaneous analytical techniques for DA and UA in diagnosing the related diseases. Herein, the Co- and Mo- doped carbon nanofibers (Co, Mo@CNFs) electrochemical biosensor was developed successfully for the sensitive and accurate simultaneous detection of DA and UA. A straightforward electrospinning technique followed by a carbonization process was employed for the synthesis of Co, Mo@CNFs, and the encapsulation of Co and Mo within CNFs served to not only prevent nanoparticle agglomeration, thus providing more active sites, but also to facilitate rapid electron transfer. By incorporating Co and Mo into CNFs, the electrocatalytic activity of the modified electrode was greatly improved due to the beneficial conductivity and synergistic effects of transition metals. This enhancement effectively addressed issues such as the overlapping anodic peaks that occur when DA and UA are oxidized concurrently. Due to the mentioned synergistic contributions, the modified Co, Mo@CNFs electrode (Co, Mo@CNFs/GCE) achieved remarkable sensitivity for the simultaneous detection of DA and UA, while also exhibiting strong anti-interference ability. The detection limits for DA and UA were 2.35 nmol L-1 and 0.16 μmol L-1, respectively. We applied the developed Co, Mo@CNFs/GCE electrochemical biosensor to detect DA and UA in 50-fold diluted serum and urine samples. The results affirm the biosensor's reliability and precision. Moreover, the developed Co, Mo@CNFs/GCE biosensor demonstrated excellent performance in simultaneously detecting DA and UA, providing an efficient and dependable detection approach for clinical diagnosis and bioanalysis.

Landscape of infiltrating immune cells and related genes in diabetic kidney disease

INTRODUCTION

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is one of the prominent microvascular complications of diabetes and the leading cause of end-stage renal disease. Inflammation plays a crucial role in the development and progression of DKD. Currently, only a few studies depict the landscape of infiltrating immune cells and their potential regulatory network in DKD. To gain a better understanding of the role of immune cells in the renal microenvironment, we sought to reveal the profile of infiltrating immune cells and their potential regulatory network in DKD.

METHODS

We obtained the transcriptomes and the corresponding clinical data of 19 DKD and 25 control samples from the Gene Expression Omnibus and Nephroseq databases, respectively. Thereafter, we conducted an analysis on the infiltrating immune cells and identified immune-related differentially expressed genes through bioinformatics. Finally, correlation analyses among immune cells, immune genes, and clinical manifestations were performed, and differentially infiltrating immune cell subsets were verified through multiplex immunofluorescence staining.

RESULTS

We demonstrated the landscape of infiltrating immune cells in patients with DKD and identified the top five hub immune regulatory genes (C3, IL7R, TYROBP, BMP2, and CXCL6). Three of the core genes (C3, BMP2, and CXCL6) were significantly correlated with the estimated glomerular filtration rate. Through multiplex immunofluorescence staining, we verified that macrophage numbers were remarkably elevated, whereas Treg cells were remarkably reduced in diabetic kidney tissues. Th2 cells were scarce in the kidney tissue.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, our findings shed light on new, possible therapeutic strategies for DKD, from an immune microenvironment perspective.

Traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of immune-related nephropathy: A review

Immune-related nephropathy (IRN) refers to immune-response-mediated glomerulonephritis and is the main cause of end-stage renal failure. The pathogenesis of IRN is not fully understood; therefore, treatment is challenging. Traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) have potent clinical effects in the treatment of the IRN conditions immunoglobulin A nephropathy, lupus nephropathy, and diabetic nephropathy. The underlying mechanisms mainly include its inhibition of inflammation; improvements to renal interstitial fibrosis, oxidative stress, autophagy, apoptosis; and regulation of immunity. In this review, we summarize the clinical symptoms of the three IRN subtypes and the use of TCM prescriptions, herbs, and bioactive compounds in treating IRN, as well as the potential mechanisms, intending to provide a reference for the future study of TCM as IRN treatments.

Isoliquiritigenin attenuates high glucose-induced proliferation, inflammation, and extracellular matrix deposition in glomerular mesangial cells by suppressing JAK2/STAT3 pathway

To investigate the effect of isoliquiritigenin (ISL) on high glucose (HG)-induced glomerular mesangial cells (GMCs) proliferation, extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition and inflammation, and the underlying mechanisms. Mouse GMCs (SV40-MES-13) were cultured in HG medium, with or without ISL. The proliferation of GMCs was determined by MTT assay. The production of proinflammatory cytokines was detected by qRT-PCR and ELISA. The expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), TGF-β1, collagen IV, and fibronectin was measured by qRT-PCR and western blot. The phosphorylation of JAK2 and STAT3 was examined by western blot. Next, JAK2 inhibitor AG490 was applied to HG-exposed GMCs. The levels of JAK2/STAT3 phosphorylation and pro-fibrotic markers were analyzed by western blot, and the secretion of TNF-α and IL-1β was evaluated by ELISA. GMCs were treated with HG, HG plus ISL or HG plus ISL, and recombinant IL-6 (rIL-6) which is a JAK2 activator. The levels of JAK2/STAT3 activation, ECM formation, and proinflammatory cytokines secretion were determined by western blot and ELISA, respectively. In mouse GMCs, ISL successfully repressed HG-induced hyperproliferation; production of TNF-α and IL-1β; expression of CTGF, TGF-β1, collagen IV, and fibronectin; and activation of JAK2/STAT3. Similar to ISL, AG490 was able to reverse the inflammation and ECM generation caused by HG. Moreover, rIL-6 impeded the amelioration of ISL on HG-induced adverse effects. Our study demonstrated that ISL displayed preventive effects on HG-exposed GMCs through inhibiting JAK2/STAT3 pathway and provided an insight into the application of ISL for diabetic nephropathy (DN) treatment.

CXCL6: A potential therapeutic target for inflammation and cancer

Chemokines were originally defined as cytokines that affect the movement of immune cells. In recent years, due to the increasing importance of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME), the role of chemokines has changed from a single "chemotactic agent" to a key factor that can regulate TME and affect the tumor phenotype. CXCL6, also known as granulocyte chemoattractant protein-2 (GCP-2), can recruit neutrophils to complete non-specific immunity in the process of inflammation. Cancer-related genes and interleukin family can promote the abnormal secretion of CXCL6, which promotes tumor growth, metastasis, epithelial mesenchymal transformation (EMT) and angiogenesis in the TME. CXCL6 also has a role in promoting fibrosis and tissue damage repair. In this review, we focus on the regulatory network affecting CXCL6 expression, its role in the progress of inflammation and how it affects tumorigenesis and progression based on the TME, in an attempt to provide a potential target for the treatment of diseases such as inflammation and cancer.

Identification and validation of disulfidptosis-related gene signatures and their subtype in diabetic nephropathy

Background: Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is the most common complication of diabetes, and its pathogenesis is complex involving a variety of programmed cell death, inflammatory responses, and autophagy mechanisms. Disulfidptosis is a newly discovered mechanism of cell death. There are little studies about the role of disulfidptosis on DN. Methods: First, we obtained the data required for this study from the GeneCards database, the Nephroseq v5 database, and the GEO database. Through differential analysis, we obtained differential disulfidptosis-related genes. At the same time, through WGCNA analysis, we obtained key module genes in DN patients. The obtained intersecting genes were further screened by Lasso as well as SVM-RFE. By intersecting the results of the two, we ended up with a key gene for diabetic nephropathy. The diagnostic performance and expression of key genes were verified by the GSE30528, GSE30529, GSE96804, and Nephroseq v5 datasets. Using clinical information from the Nephroseq v5 database, we investigated the correlation between the expression of key genes and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and serum creatinine content. Next, we constructed a nomogram and analyzed the immune microenvironment of patients with DN. The identification of subtypes facilitates individualized treatment of patients with DN. Results: We obtained 91 differential disulfidptosis-related genes. Through WGCNA analysis, we obtained 39 key module genes in DN patients. Taking the intersection of the two, we preliminarily screened 20 genes characteristic of DN. Through correlation analysis, we found that these 20 genes are positively correlated with each other. Further screening by Lasso and SVM-RFE algorithms and intersecting the results of the two, we identified CXCL6, CD48, C1QB, and COL6A3 as key genes in DN. Clinical correlation analysis found that the expression levels of key genes were closely related to eGFR. Immune cell infiltration is higher in samples from patients with DN than in normal samples. Conclusion: We identified and validated 4 DN key genes from disulfidptosis-related genes that CXCL6, CD48, C1QB, and COL6A3 may be key genes that promote the onset of DN and are closely related to the eGFR and immune cell infiltrated in the kidney tissue.

Periostin deficiency attenuates kidney fibrosis in diabetic nephropathy by improving pancreatic β-cell dysfunction and reducing kidney EMT

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is associated with kidney fibrosis. A previous study revealed that periostin (POSTN) contributes to kidney fibrosis. This study examined the role of POSTN in DN. The urinary concentrations of POSTN and TNC increased according to the severity of DN in human samples. Streptozotocin (STZ) was administered after unilateral nephrectomy (UNXSTZ) to induce DN in wild-type and Postn-null mice. Four experimental groups were generated: wild-typeham (WT Sham), wild-type UNXSTZ (WT STZ), Postn-null Sham (KO Sham), and Postn-null UNXSTZ (KO STZ). After 20 weeks, the KO STZ group had lower levels of urine albumin excretion, glomerular sclerosis, and interstitial fibrosis than those of the WT STZ group. Additionally, the KO STZ group had lower expression of fibrosis markers, including TNC. The KO STZ group showed better glucose regulation than the WT STZ model. Furthermore, the KO STZ group exhibited significantly preserved pancreatic islet integrity and insulin expression. HK-2 cells were used to observe the aggravation of fibrosis caused by POSTN under TGF-β conditions. We stimulated INS-1 cells with streptozotocin and evaluated the viability of these cells. The anti-POSTN antibody treatment of INS-1 cells with streptozotocin resulted in higher cell viability than that with treatment with streptozotocin alone. The absence of POSTN in DN contributes to renal fibrosis alleviation by improving pancreatic β-cell function. Additionally, there is an association between POSTN and TNC.

JAK/STAT signaling in diabetic kidney disease

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is the most important microvascular complication of diabetes and the leading cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) worldwide. The Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of the transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling pathway, which is out of balance in the context of DKD, acts through a range of metabolism-related cytokines and hormones. JAK/STAT is the primary signaling node in the progression of DKD. The latest research on JAK/STAT signaling helps determine the role of this pathway in the factors associated with DKD progression. These factors include the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), fibrosis, immunity, inflammation, aging, autophagy, and EMT. This review epitomizes the progress in understanding the complicated explanation of the etiologies of DKD and the role of the JAK/STAT pathway in the progression of DKD and discusses whether it can be a potential target for treating DKD. It further summarizes the JAK/STAT inhibitors, natural products, and other drugs that are promising for treating DKD and discusses how these inhibitors can alleviate DKD to explore possible potential drugs that will contribute to formulating effective treatment strategies for DKD in the near future.

Lysozyme promotes renal fibrosis through the JAK/STAT3 signal pathway in diabetic nephropathy

Introduction

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a leading cause of kidney failure. Lysozyme (LYZ) is an essential component of innate immunity and exhibits antibacterial properties. However, LYZ has been reported to induce nephropathy, implying a possible association between impaired renal function and lysozyme expression.

Material and methods

Bioinformatics analysis was used to predict the hub gene associated with DN, and the differential expression of the hub gene was confirmed using a mouse model. A mouse model of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic nephropathy was established to investigate the correlation between DN and LYZ expression, and the functionality of LYZ was verified through knockdown and overexpression experiments conducted in vivo. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was utilized to assess fibrosis-related markers and cytokines, while Masson staining was performed to assess renal fibrosis. Fibroblast proliferation was assessed using the Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. The role of the JAK pathway was confirmed using the JAK inhibitor AG490, and Western blot was used to investigate the underlying mechanisms.

Results

Mechanistically, 25 mM glucose promotes the expression of LYZ in fibroblastic cells, and LYZ may in turn promote the proliferation of renal interstitial fibroblasts. Western blot shows that glucose can activate STAT3 in an LYZ-dependent manner, and the JAK inhibitor AG490 can partially suppress LYZ-induced STAT3 activation. Furthermore, in vivo observations have revealed that overexpression of LYZ is associated with the senescent phenotype of renal tubular epithelial cells (RTECs).

Conclusions

Lysozyme promotes kidney fibrosis via the JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway in diabetic nephropathy, and glucose may promote fibroblast proliferation by promoting LYZ auto-secretion.

Promising therapeutic mechanism for Chinese herbal medicine in ameliorating renal fibrosis in diabetic nephropathy

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is one of the most serious chronic microvascular abnormalities of diabetes mellitus and the major cause of uremia. Accumulating evidence has confirmed that fibrosis is a significant pathological feature that contributes to the development of chronic kidney disease in DN. However, the exact mechanism of renal fibrosis in DN is still unclear, which greatly hinders the treatment of DN. Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) has shown efficacy and safety in ameliorating inflammation and albuminuria in diabetic patients. In this review, we outline the underlying mechanisms of renal fibrosis in DN, including oxidative stress (OS) generation and OS-elicited ASK1-p38/JNK activation. Also, we briefly summarize the current status of CHM treating DN by improving renal fibrosis. The treatment of DN by inhibiting ASK1 activation to alleviate renal fibrosis in DN with CHM will promote the discovery of novel therapeutic targets for DN and provide a beneficial therapeutic method for DN.

Piperlonguminine attenuates renal fibrosis by inhibiting TRPC6

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Liuwei Dihuang (LWDH) is a classic prescription that has been used to the treatment of "Kidney-Yin" deficiency syndrome for more than 1000 years in China. Recent studies have confirmed that LWDH can prevent the progression of renal fibrosis. Numerous studies have demonstrated the critical role that TRPC6 plays in the development of renal fibrosis. Due to the complex composition of LWDH and its remarkable therapeutic effect on renal fibrosis, it is possible to discover new active ingredients targeting TRPC6 for the treatment of renal fibrosis.

AIM OF STUDY

This study aimed to identify selective TRPC6 inhibitors from LWDH and evaluate their therapeutical effects on renal fibrosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Computer-aided drug design was used to screen the biologically active ingredients of LWDH, and their affinities to human TRPC6 protein were detected by microcalorimetry. TRPC6, TRPC3, and TRPC7 over-expressed HEK293 cells were constructed, and the selective activities of the compounds on TRPC6 were determined by measuring [Ca²⁺]_i in these cells. To establish an in vitro model of renal fibrosis, human renal proximal tubular epithelial HK-2 cells were stimulated with TGF-β1. The therapeutic effects of LWDH compounds on renal fibrosis were then tested by detecting the related proteins. TRPC6 was knocked-down in HK-2 cells to investigate the effects of LWDH active ingredients on TRPC6. Finally, a unilateral ureteral obstruction model of renal fibrosis was established to test the therapeutic effect.

RESULTS

From hundreds of LWDH ingredients, 64 active components with oral bioavailability ≥30% and drug-likeness index ≥0.18 were acquired. A total of 10 active components were obtained by molecular docking with TRPC6 protein. Among them, 4 components had an affinity with TRPC6. Piperlonguminine (PLG) had the most potent affinity with TRPC6 and blocking effect on TRPC6-mediated Ca²⁺ entry. A 100 μM of PLG showed no detectable inhibition on TRPC1, TRPC3, TRPC4, TRPC5, or TRPC7-mediated Ca²⁺ influx into cells. In vitro results indicated that PLG concentration-dependently inhibited the abnormally high expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen I, vimentin, and TRPC6 in TGF-β1-induced HK-2 cells. Consistently, PLG also could not further inhibit TGF-β1-induced expressions of these protein biomarkers in TRPC6 knocked-down HK-2 cells. In vivo, PLG dose-dependently reduced urinary protein, serum creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen levels in renal fibrosis mice and markedly alleviated fibrosis and the expressions of α-SMA, collagen I, vimentin, and TRPC6 in kidney tissues.

CONCLUSION

Our results showed that PLG had anti-renal fibrosis effects by selectively inhibiting TRPC6. PLG might be a promising therapeutic agent for the treatment of renal fibrosis.

Ginkgo biloba extract attenuates cisplatin-induced renal interstitial fibrosis by inhibiting the activation of renal fibroblasts through down-regulating the HIF-1α/STAT3/IL-6 pathway in renal tubular epithelial cells

BACKGROUND

Activation of renal fibroblasts into myofibroblasts plays an important role in promoting renal interstitial fibrosis (RIF). Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb) can alleviate RIF induced by cisplatin (CDDP).

PURPOSE

To elucidate the effect of EGb treatment on cisplatin-induced RIF and reveal its potential mechanism.

METHODS

The two main active components in EGb were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis. Rats were induced by CDDP and then treated with EGb, 2ME2 (HIF-1α inhibitor) or amifostine. After HK-2 cells and HIF-1α siRNA HK-2 cells were treated with CDDP, EGb or amifostine, the conditioned medium from each group was cultured with NRK-49F cells. The renal function of rats was detected. The renal damage and fibrosis were evaluated by H&E and Masson trichrome staining. The IL-6 content in the cell medium was detected by ELISA. The expression levels of indicators related to renal fibrosis and signaling pathway were examined by western blotting and qRT-PCR.

RESULTS

HPLC analysis showed that the contents of quercetin and kaempferol in EGb were 36.0 μg/ml and 45.7 μg/ml, respectively. In vivo, EGb and 2ME2 alleviated renal damage and fibrosis, as well as significantly decreased the levels of α-SMA, HIF-1α, STAT3 and IL-6 in rat tissues induced by CDDP. In vitro, the levels of HIF-1α, STAT3 and IL-6 were significantly increased in HK-2 cells and HIF-1α siRNA HK-2 cells induced by CDDP. Notably, HIF-1α siRNA significantly decreased the levels of HIF-1α, STAT3 and IL-6 in HK-2 cells, as well as the IL-6 level in medium from HK-2 cells. Additionally, the α-SMA level in NRK-49F cells was significantly increased after being cultured with conditioned medium from HK-2 cells or HIF-1α siRNA HK-2 cells exposed to CDDP. Furthermore, exogenous IL-6 increased the α-SMA level in NRK-49F cells. Importantly, the expression levels of the above-mentioned indicators were significantly decreased after the HK-2 cells and HIF-1α siRNA HK-2 cells were treated with EGb.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed that EGb improves CDDP-induced RIF, and the mechanism may be related to its inhibition of the renal fibroblast activation by down-regulating the HIF-1α/STAT3/IL-6 pathway in renal tubular epithelial cells.

Nephroprotective and nephrotoxic effects of Rhubarb and their molecular mechanisms

Rhubarb, in the form of a traditional Chinese medicine, is used in the treatment of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Previous studies have demonstrated that Rhubarb possesses a good nephroprotective effect, which primarily protects the kidneys from fibrosis, oxidation, inflammation, autophagy, and apoptosis. However, studies have shown that the long-term inappropriate use of Rhubarb may cause damage to renal function. Therefore, how to correctly understand and scientifically evaluate the pharmacodynamics and toxicity of Rhubarb with regard to CKD is a scientific question that urgently needs to be answered. In this review, we explain and illustrate how Rhubarb exerts its nephroprotective effect against CKD. We also describe the mechanisms of action that may cause its nephrotoxicity. Valuable and practical clinical guidance is proposed with regard to methods for mitigating the nephrotoxicity of Rhubarb.

Uncovering the molecular mechanisms of Curcumae Rhizoma against myocardial fibrosis using network pharmacology and experimental validation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Myocardial fibrosis leads to cardiac remodeling and dysfunction. Curcumae Rhizoma has been utilized in clinical trials to treat a variety of cardiovascular illnesses, although its role in myocardial fibrosis is unknown.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The purpose of current study was to explore the potential mechanism action and anti-myocardial fibrosis effects of treatment with Curcumae Rhizoma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The chemical components in the aqueous extract from Curcumae Rhizoma were identified using GC-MS analysis. A prediction network describing the relationship between Curcumae Rhizoma and MF was established based on information collected from multiple databases. Functional enrichment analysis was performed to investigate the specific functions and pathways involved in the candidate Curcumae Rhizoma targets acting on MF, which were further validated by vivo experiments.

RESULTS

There were 444 targets obtained from the 39 active ingredients in Curcumae Rhizoma, and 5691 disease targets related to MF were identified. Then, 41 key targets were determined with the PPI interaction network, which was structured from 324 overlapping gene targets. GO and KEGG analyses revealed that the p38 MAPK/NF-κB and TGF-β1/Smad2/3 signaling pathways might play crucial roles in the therapeutic mechanism of MF. According to the results of molecular docking, the binding activity between core components and targets was marvelous (affinity < -6 kcal/mol). Take it a step further, the experimental validation data affirmed that Curcumae Rhizoma substantially decreased myocardial fibrosis and recovered cardiac function in the ISO-induced rats. The associated proteins expression data implied that the p38 MAPK/NF-κB and TGF-β1/Smad2/3 pathways might be vital in the anti-fibrosis effect of Curcumae Rhizoma.

CONCLUSION

The findings suggested that Curcumae Rhizoma diminished myocardial fibrosis by suppressing fibrosis multiplication and collagen deposition through inhibiting p38 MAPK/NF-κB and TGF-β1/Smad2/3 pathways, which might be a promising therapeutic medicament for alleviating myocardial fibrosis.

Bie-Jia-Ruan-Mai-Tang, a Chinese Medicine Formula, Inhibits Retinal Neovascularization in Diabetic Mice Through Inducing the Apoptosis of Retinal Vascular Endothelial Cells

Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) is one of the main complications of diabetes, mainly caused by the aberrant proliferation of retinal vascular endothelial cells and the formation of new blood vessels. Traditional Chinese medicines possess great potential in the prevention and treatment of PDR. Bie-Jia-Ruan-Mai-Tang (BJ), a Chinese medicine formula, has a good therapeutic effect on PDR clinically; however, the mechanism of action involved remains unclear. Therefore, we investigated the effect of BJ on PDR through in vitro and in vivo experiments. A diabetic mouse model with PDR was established by feeding a high-fat–high-glucose diet combined with an intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ), while high-glucose-exposed human retinal capillary endothelial cells (HRCECs) were employed to mimic PDR in vitro. The in vivo experiments indicated that BJ inhibited the formation of acellular capillaries, decreased the expression of VEGF, and increased the level of ZO-1 in diabetic mice retina. In vitro experiments showed that high glucose significantly promoted cell viability and proliferation. However, BJ inhibited cell proliferation by cycle arrest in the S phase, thus leading to apoptosis; it also increased the production of ROS, decreased the mitochondrial membrane potential, reduced the ATP production, and also reduced the expressions of p-PI3K, p-AKT, and Bcl-xL, but increased the expressions of Bax and p-NF-κB. These results suggest that BJ induces the apoptosis of HRCECs exposed to high glucose through activating the mitochondrial death pathway by decreasing the PI3K/AKT signaling and increasing the NF-κB signaling to inhibit the formation of acellular capillaries in the retina, thus impeding the development of PDR.

Yi-Shen-Hua-Shi Granule Alleviates Adriamycin-Induced Glomerular Fibrosis by Suppressing the BMP2/Smad Signaling Pathway

Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) is a common clinical condition with manifestations of nephrotic syndrome and fibrosis of the glomeruli and interstitium. Yi-Shen-Hua-Shi (YSHS) granule has been shown to have a good effect in alleviating nephrotic syndrome (NS) in clinical and in animal models of FSGS, but whether it can alleviate renal fibrosis in FSGS and its mechanism and targets are not clear. In this study, we explored the anti-fibrotic effect and the targets of the YSHS granule in an adriamycin (ADR)-induced FSGS model and found that the YSHS granule significantly improved the renal function of ADR-induced FSGS model mice and also significantly reduced the deposition of collagen fibers and the expression of mesenchymal cell markers FN, vimentin, and α-SMA in the glomeruli of ADR-induced FSGS mice, suggesting that the YSHS granule inhibited the fibrosis of sclerotic glomeruli. Subsequently, a network pharmacology-based approach was used to identify the potential targets of the YSHS granule for the alleviation of glomerulosclerosis in FSGS, and the results showed that the YSHS granule down-regulated the expressions of BMP2, GSTA1, GATS3, BST1, and S100A9 and up-regulated the expressions of TTR and GATM in ADR-induced FSGS model mice. We also proved that the YSHS granule inhibited the fibrosis in the glomeruli of ADR-induced FSGS model mice through the suppression of the BMP2/Smad signaling pathway.

San-Huang-Yi-Shen Capsule Ameliorates Diabetic Nephropathy in Rats Through Modulating the Gut Microbiota and Overall Metabolism

San-Huang-Yi-Shen capsule (SHYS) has been used in the treatment of diabetic nephropathy (DN) in clinic. However, the mechanisms of SHYS on DN remain unknown. In this study, we used a high-fat diet (HFD) combined with streptozotocin (STZ) injection to establish a DN rat model. Next, we used 16S rRNA sequencing and untargeted metabolomics to study the potential mechanisms of SHYS on DN. Our results showed that SHYS treatment alleviated the body weight loss, hyperglycemia, proteinuria, pathological changes in kidney in DN rats. SHYS could also inhibite the oxidative stress and inflammatory response in kidney. 16S rRNA sequencing analysis showed that SHYS affected the beta diversity of gut microbiota community in DN model rats. SHYX could also decrease the Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes (F to B) ratio in phylum level. In genus level, SHYX treatment affected the relative abundances of Lactobacillus, Ruminococcaceae UCG-005, Allobaculum, Anaerovibrio, Bacteroides and Candidatus_Saccharimonas. Untargeted metabolomics analysis showed that SHYX treatment altered the serum metabolic profile in DN model rats through affecting the levels of guanidineacetic acid, L-kynurenine, prostaglandin F1α, threonine, creatine, acetylcholine and other 21 kind of metabolites. These metabolites are mainly involved in glycerophospholipid metabolism, tryptophan metabolism, alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism, arginine biosynthesis, tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, tyrosine metabolism, arginine and proline metabolism, arginine and proline metabolism, phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis, phenylalanine metabolism, and D-glutamine and D-glutamate metabolism pathways. Spearman correlation analysis showed that Lactobacillus, Candidatus_Saccharimonas, Ruminococcaceae UCG-005, Anaerovibrio, Bacteroides, and Christensenellaceae_R-7_group were closely correlated with most of physiological data and the differential metabolites following SHYS treatment. In conclusion, our study revealed multiple ameliorative effects of SHYS on DN including the alleviation of hyperglycemia and the improvement of renal function, pathological changes in kidney, oxidative stress, and the inflammatory response. The mechanism of SHYS on DN may be related to the improvement of gut microbiota which regulates arginine biosynthesis, TCA cycle, tyrosine metabolism, and arginine and proline metabolism.

Interleukin-33/ Suppression of Tumorigenicity 2 in Renal Fibrosis: Emerging Roles in Prognosis and Treatment

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major public health problem that affects more than 10% of the population worldwide and has a high mortality rate. Therefore, it is necessary to identify novel treatment strategies for CKD. Incidentally, renal fibrosis plays a central role in the progression of CKD to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The activation of inflammatory pathways leads to the development of renal fibrosis. In fact, interleukin-33 (IL-33), a newly discovered member of the interleukin 1 (IL-1) cytokine family, is a crucial regulator of the inflammatory process. It exerts pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic effects via the suppression of tumorigenicity 2 (ST2) receptor, which, in turn, activates other inflammatory pathways. Although the role of this pathway in cardiac, pulmonary, and hepatic fibrotic diseases has been extensively studied, its precise role in renal fibrosis has not yet been completely elucidated. Recent studies have shown that a sustained activation of IL-33/ST2 pathway promotes the development of renal fibrosis. However, with prolonged research in this field, it is expected that the IL-33/ST2 pathway will be used as a diagnostic and prognostic tool for renal diseases. In addition, the IL-33/ST2 pathway seems to be a new target for the future treatment of CKD. Here, we review the mechanisms and potential applications of the IL-33/ST2 pathway in renal fibrosis; such that it can help clinicians and researchers to explore effective treatment options and develop novel medicines for CKD patients.

STAT3: A key regulator in liver fibrosis

Janus protein tyrosine kinase (JAK) has the ability to activate signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT). STAT3 is a valued member of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway. In recent years, several studies have documented that STAT3 is closely related to the occurrence and development of liver fibrosis caused by various factors. Activation of STAT3 can play anti- or pro-inflammatory roles in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis. This article reviewed the recent studies on STAT3 in the development of various liver fibrosis to find a more effective method to relieve and cure liver diseases, such as hepatitis B virus (HBV), non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), schistosomiasis, and chemical liver injury.

Dandelion sterol improves diabetes mellitus-induced renal injury in in vitro and in vivo study

The purpose of our research was to evaluate Dandelion sterol's treatment effects on diabetes mellitus-induced renal injury in in vitro and in vivo study. The rats were divided into five groups as normal control (Ctrl), diabetic nephropathy model (Model), Dandelion sterol low-dose treated (Dan-Low), Dandelion sterol middle-dose treated (Dan-Middle), and Dandelion sterol high-dose treated (Dan-High). Measuring serum TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 concentrations by Elisa assay, evaluate kidney pathology by HE staining, kidney cell apoptosis of TUNEL, TLR4, and NF-κB(p65) proteins expression by IHC assay, and relative gene expressions by RT-qPCR assay. In the following step, using HK-2 treated with high glucose to model DN cell model to discuss the relative mechanisms, evaluate TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 concentrations by Elisa assay, evaluate cell apoptosis by flow cytometry, evaluate TLR4 and NF-κB(p65) proteins expression by WB assay, relative gene expression by RT-qPCR assay, and NF-κB(p65) nuclear volume by cellular immunofluorescence. Compared with Ctrl group, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 concentrations and apoptosis cell number were significantly increased, TLR4/NF-κB(p65) pathway was significantly stimulated in Model rats and cell groups. With Dan supplement, the diabetic-induced renal injury was significantly improved (p < .05, respectively). By cell experiment, Dan improved cell apoptosis and inflammatory factors via miR-140-5p. Dan improved diabetes mellitus-induced renal injury via regulation of miR-140-5p/TLR4 axis in in vitro and in vivo study.

Crocin alleviates the inflammation and oxidative stress responses associated with diabetic nephropathy in rats via NLRP3 inflammasomes

AIM

Currently, drugs for the treatment of diabetic nephropathy (DN) are lacking. This study aimed to explore the protective effect of crocin on DN.

MAIN METHODS

Diabetes was induced in rats by streptozotocin (STZ), and changes in metabolism and renal parameters after crocin treatment were measured. Dihydroethidium (DHE) fluorescence and superoxide generation were used to detect the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in rat renal tissues. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to measure changes inflammation-related factors with crocin treatment. In addition, the expression of Nod-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) signaling pathway components was detected by western blot analysis, qRT-PCR, and immunohistochemistry.

KEY FINDINGS

Crocin lowered blood sugar, increased serum insulin levels, and improved diabetes-related symptoms, including kidney dysfunction. Masson trichrome staining revealed that crocin could improve renal tissue fibrosis caused by hyperglycemia. Moreover, crocin inhibited ROS production in renal tissues and generally inhibited the production of the proinflammatory factors TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-18. Crocin exerted these functions by inhibiting the expression of the NLRP3 inflammasome in DN rats.

SIGNIFICANCE

Crocin alleviates DN related oxidative stress and inflammation by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasomes. Our results provide a new target for the treatment of DN.

Icariin ameliorates streptozocin-induced diabetic nephropathy through suppressing the TLR4/NF-κB signal pathway

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is one of the complex and severe complications of diabetes mellitus (DM). Icariin (ICA) is a flavonoid extracted from the leaves and stems of Herba epimedii with a wide range of pharmacological effects, such as anti-osteoporosis, anti-fibrosis, anti-aging, anti-inflammation and antioxidation. The purpose of our study was to explore the renal protective effect of ICA on DN in mice and its possible mechanisms. ICR mice were exposed to STZ-induced DN. The kidney organ coefficient of mice was computed. 24 h UP in urine was measured. Serum FBG, Cr and BUN were detected. The content of MDA and the activities of SOD, CAT and GSH-Px in renal tissues were tested. HE staining, PAS staining, PASM staining and transmission electron microscopy were used to observe renal pathological changes. Furthermore, TLR4, p-NF-κB p65, TNF-α and IL-6 of renal tissues were assayed by immunohistochemistry and western blotting. Our results indicated that ICA observably optimized the renal organ coefficient, reduced the level of 24 h UP in urine, decreased the content of Cr, BUN in serum and MDA in renal tissues, promoted the activities of SOD, CAT and GSH-Px in renal tissues, and ameliorated pathological lesions of kidneys noticeably. Besides, ICA inhibited the expressions of TLR4, p-NF-κB p65, TNF-α and IL-6 remarkably in renal tissues. ICA, which might lighten the renal inflammatory response by suppressing the TLR4/NF-κB signal pathway, played a protective role in kidneys of STZ-induced DN mice.

Dissecting Efficacy and Metabolic Characteristic Mechanism of Taxifolin on Renal Fibrosis by Multivariate Approach and Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography Coupled With Mass Spectrometry-Based Metabolomics Strategy

Taxifolin (TFN) is an important natural compound with antifibrotic activity; however, its pharmacological mechanism is not clear. In this study, our aim is to gain insight into the effects of TFN and its potential mechanisms in unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) animal model using metabolomics approach to identify the metabolic biomarkers and perturbed pathways. Serum metabolomics analysis by UPLC-Q-TOF/MS was carried out to discover the changes in the metabolic profile. It showed that TFN has a significant protective effect on UUO-induced renal fibrosis and a total of 32 potential biomarkers were identified and related to RF progression. Of note, 27 biomarkers were regulated by TFN treatment, which participate in eight metabolic pathways, including phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis, and phenylalanine metabolism. It also showed that metabolomics was a promising strategy to better dissect metabolic characteristics and pharmacological mechanisms of natural compounds by multivariate approach and ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry.