Inflammation, Oxidative Stress, Senescence in Atherosclerosis: Thioredoxine-1 as an Emerging Therapeutic Target

Role of airway epithelium in viral respiratory infections: Can carbocysteine prevent or mitigate them?

Alterations in airway epithelial homeostasis increase viral respiratory infections risk. Viral infections frequently are associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations, events that dramatically promote disease progression. Mechanism promoting the main respiratory viruses entry and virus-evocated innate and adaptive immune responses have now been elucidated, and an oxidative stress central role in these pathogenic processes has been recognized. Presence of reactive oxygen species in macrophages and other cells allows them to eliminate virus, but its excess alters the balance between innate and adaptive immune responses and proteases/anti-proteases and leads to uncontrolled inflammation, tissue damage, and hypercoagulability. Different upper and lower airway cell types also play a role in viral entry and infection. Carbocysteine is a muco-active drug with anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties used for the management of several chronic respiratory diseases. Although the use of anti-oxidants has been proposed as an effective strategy in COPD exacerbations management, the molecular mechanisms that explain carbocysteine efficacy have not yet been fully clarified. The present review describes the most relevant features of the common respiratory virus pathophysiology with a focus on epithelial cells and oxidative stress role and reports data supporting a putative role of carbocysteine in viral respiratory infections.

Protective effect of rubber seed oil on human endothelial cells

OBJECTIVE

This study was conducted to characterize the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of Rubber Seed Oil (RSO) against atherosclerosis (AS) through the study of the protective effects and mechanisms on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) injury induced by oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL).

METHODS

HUVECs were treated with RSO, ox-LDL, RSO + ox-LDL, respectively, followed by cell activity testing, levels of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, ROS, NO, the mRNA expression of eNOS and protein expression of MCP-1, VCAM-1, eNOS, TLR4, NF-κB p65、p-NF-κB p65.

RESULTS

Compared with the ox-LDL group, cell viability, NO level and the expression of eNOS mRNA significantly increased. and the levels of pro-inflammatory factors such as IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, IL-10, ROS were significantly decreased, which was accompanied by decreases in TLR4 mRNA, TLR4, MCP-1, VCAM-1 protein expression, as well as the ratio of NF-κB p-p65/p65 in the group treated with 250 μg/ml ox-LDL + 50 μg/ml RSO, 250 μg/ml ox-LDL + 100 μg/ml RSO, 250 μg/ml ox-LDL + 150 μg/ml RSO.

CONCLUSIONS

RSO can reduce the expression of pro-inflammatory mediators, oxidative factors involved in injured vascular endothelial cells, exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties HUVECs exposed to ox-LDL. In addition, it may alleviate endothelial cell damage by inhibiting the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway.

Abdominal aortic calcification volume as a preoperative prognostic predictor for pancreatic cancer

PURPOSE

Atherosclerosis and cancer may progress through common pathological factors. This study was performed to investigate the association between the abdominal aortic calcification (AAC) volume and outcomes following surgical treatment for pancreatic cancer.

METHODS

The subjects of this retrospective study were 194 patients who underwent pancreatic cancer surgery between 2007 and 2020. The AAC volume was assessed through routine preoperative computed tomography. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to evaluate the impact of the AAC volume on oncological outcomes.

RESULTS

A higher AAC volume (≥ 312 mm3) was identified in 66 (34%) patients, who were significantly older and had a higher prevalence of diabetes and sarcopenia. Univariate analysis revealed several risk factors for overall survival (OS), including male sex, an AAC volume ≥ 312 mm3, elevated carbohydrate antigen 19-9, prolonged operation time, increased intraoperative bleeding, lymph node metastasis, poor differentiation, and absence of adjuvant chemotherapy. Multivariate analysis identified an AAC volume ≥ 312 mm3, prolonged operation time, lymph node metastasis, poor differentiation, and absence of adjuvant chemotherapy as independent OS risk factors. The OS rate was significantly lower in the high AAC group than in the low AAC group.

CONCLUSION

The AAC volume may serve as a preoperative prognostic indicator for patients with pancreatic cancer.

Mitochondria-targeted esculetin and metformin delay endothelial senescence by promoting fatty acid β-oxidation: Relevance in age-associated atherosclerosis

Impaired mitochondrial fatty acid β-oxidation (FAO) plays a role in the onset of several age-associated diseases, including atherosclerosis. In the current work, we investigated the efficacies of mitochondria-targeted esculetin (Mito-Esc) and metformin in enhancing FAO in human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs), and its relevance in the delay of cellular senescence and age-associated atherosclerotic plaque formation in Apoe-/- mice. Chronic culturing of HAECs with either Mito-Esc or metformin increased oxygen consumption rates (OCR), and caused delay in senescence features. Conversely, etomoxir (CPT1 inhibitor) reversed Mito-Esc- and metformin-induced OCR, and caused premature endothelial senescence. Interestingly, Mito-Esc, unlike metformin, in the presence of etomoxir failed to preserve OCR. Thereby, underscoring Mito-Esc's exclusive reliance on FAO as an energy source. Mechanistically, chronic culturing of HAECs with either Mito-Esc or metformin led to AMPK activation, increased CPT1 activity, and acetyl-CoA levels along with a concomitant reduction in malonyl-CoA levels, and lipid accumulation. Similar results were observed in Apoe-/- mice aorta and liver tissue with a parallel reduction in age-associated atherosclerotic plaque formation and degeneration of liver with either Mito-Esc or metformin administration. Together, Mito-Esc and metformin by potentiating FAO, may have a role in the delay of cellular senescence by modulating mitochondrial function.

Senolytics ameliorate the failure of bone regeneration through the cell senescence-related inflammatory signalling pathway

Stress-induced premature senescent (SIPS) cells induced by various stresses deteriorate cell functions. Dasatinib and quercetin senolytics (DQ) can alleviate several diseases by eliminating senescent cells. α-tricalcium phosphate (α-TCP) is a widely used therapeutic approach for bone restoration but induces bone formation for a comparatively long time. Furthermore, bone infection exacerbates the detrimental prognosis of bone formation during material implant surgery due to oral cavity bacteria and unintentional contamination. It is essential to mitigate the inhibitory effects on bone formation during surgical procedures. Little is known that DQ improves bone formation in Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-contaminated implants and its intrinsic mechanisms in the study of maxillofacial bone defects. This study aims to investigate whether the administration of DQ ameliorates the impairments on bone repair inflammation and contamination by eliminating SIPS cells. α-TCP and LPS-contaminated α-TCP were implanted into Sprague-Dawley rat calvaria bone defects. Simultaneously, bone formation in the bone defects was investigated with or without the oral administration of DQ. Micro-computed tomography and hematoxylin-eosin staining showed that senolytics significantly enhanced bone formation at the defect site. Histology and immunofluorescence staining revealed that the levels of p21- and p16-positive senescent cells, inflammation, macrophages, reactive oxygen species, and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase-positive cells declined after administering DQ. DQ could partially alleviate the production of senescent markers and senescence-associated secretory phenotypes in vitro. This study indicates that LPS-contaminated α-TCP-based biomaterials can induce cellular senescence and hamper bone regeneration. Senolytics have significant therapeutic potential in reducing the adverse osteogenic effects of biomaterial-related infections and improving bone formation capacity.

Therapeutic efficacies of mitochondria-targeted esculetin and metformin in the improvement of age-associated atherosclerosis via regulating AMPK activation

Atherosclerosis, in general, is an age-associated cardiovascular disease wherein a progressive decline in mitochondrial function due to aging majorly contributes to the disease development. Mitochondria-derived ROS due to dysregulated endothelial cell function accentuates the progression of atherosclerotic plaque formation. To circumvent this, mitochondrially targeted antioxidants are emerging as potential candidates to combat metabolic abnormalities. Recently, we synthesized an alkyl TPP+ tagged esculetin (Mito-Esc), and in the current study, we investigated the therapeutic efficacies of Mito-Esc and metformin, a well-known anti-diabetic drug, in the amelioration of age-associated plaque formation in the aortas of 12 months aged Apoe-/- and 20 months aged C57BL/6 mice, in comparison to young C57BL/6 control mice. Administration of Mito-Esc or metformin significantly reduced age-induced atherosclerotic lesion area, macrophage polarization, vascular inflammation, and senescence. Further, chronic passaging of human aortic endothelial cells (HAEC) with either Mito-Esc or metformin significantly delayed cellular senescence via the activation of the AMPK-SIRT1/SIRT6 axis. Conversely, depletion of either AMPK/SIRT1/SIRT6 caused premature senescence. Consistent with this, Mito-Esc or metformin treatment attenuated NFkB-mediated inflammatory signaling and enhanced ARE-mediated anti-oxidant responses in comparison to late passage control HAECs. Importantly, culturing of HAECs for several passages with either Mito-Esc or metformin significantly improved mitochondrial function. Overall, Mito-Esc and metformin treatments delay age-associated atherosclerosis by regulating vascular senescence via the activation of AMPK-SIRT1/SIRT6 axis.

Understanding the intricacies of cellular senescence in atherosclerosis: Mechanisms and therapeutic implications

Cardiovascular disease is currently the largest cause of mortality and disability globally, surpassing communicable diseases, and atherosclerosis is the main contributor to this epidemic. Aging is intimately linked to atherosclerosis development and progression, however, the mechanism of aging in atherosclerosis is not well known. To emphasize the significant research on the involvement of senescent cells in atherosclerosis, we begin by outlining compelling evidence that indicates various types of senescent cells and SASP factors linked to atherosclerotic phenotypes. We subsequently provide a comprehensive summary of the existing knowledge, shedding light on the intricate mechanisms through which cellular senescence contributes to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Further, we cover that senescence can be identified by both structural changes and several senescence-associated biomarkers. Finally, we discuss that preventing accelerated cellular senescence represents an important therapeutic potential, as permanent changes may occur in advanced atherosclerosis. Together, the review summarizes the relationship between cellular senescence and atherosclerosis, and inspects the molecular knowledge, and potential clinical significance of senescent cells in developing senescent-based therapy, thus providing crucial insights into their biology and potential therapeutic exploration.

New Perspectives on the Role and Therapeutic Potential of Melatonin in Cardiovascular Diseases

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death and disability worldwide. It is essential to develop novel interventions to prevent/delay CVDs by targeting their fundamental cellular and molecular processes. Melatonin is a small indole molecule acting both as a hormone of the pineal gland and as a local regulator molecule in various tissues. It has multiple features that may contribute to its cardiovascular protection. Moreover, melatonin enters all cells and subcellular compartments and crosses morphophysiological barriers. Additionally, this indoleamine also serves as a safe exogenous therapeutic agent. Increasing evidence has demonstrated the beneficial effects of melatonin in preventing and improving cardiovascular risk factors. Exogenous administration of melatonin, as a result of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, has been reported to decrease blood pressure, protect against atherosclerosis, attenuate molecular and cellular damage resulting from cardiac ischemia/reperfusion, and improve the prognosis of myocardial infarction and heart failure. This review aims to summarize the beneficial effects of melatonin against these conditions, the possible protective mechanisms of melatonin, and its potential clinical applicability in CVDs.

N-Acetylcysteine and Atherosclerosis: Promises and Challenges

Atherosclerosis remains a leading cause of cardiovascular diseases. Although the mechanism for atherosclerosis is complex and has not been fully understood, inflammation and oxidative stress play a critical role in the development and progression of atherosclerosis. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) has been used as a mucolytic agent and an antidote for acetaminophen overdose with a well-established safety profile. NAC has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects through multiple mechanisms, including an increase in the intracellular glutathione level and an attenuation of the nuclear factor kappa-B mediated production of inflammatory cytokines like tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukins. Numerous animal studies have demonstrated that NAC significantly decreases the development and progression of atherosclerosis. However, the data on the outcomes of clinical studies in patients with atherosclerosis have been limited and inconsistent. The purpose of this review is to summarize the data on the effect of NAC on atherosclerosis from both pre-clinical and clinical studies and discuss the potential mechanisms of action of NAC on atherosclerosis, as well as challenges in the field.

Frentizole derivatives with mTOR inhibiting and senomorphic properties

Frentizole is immunosuppressive drug with low acute toxicity and lifespan-prolonging effect. Recently, frentizole´s potential to disrupt toxic amyloid β (Aβ) - Aβ-binding alcohol dehydrogenase (ABAD) interaction in mitochondria in Alzheimer´s brains has been revealed. Another broadly studied drug with anti-aging and immunosuppressive properties is an mTOR inhibitor - rapamycin. Since we do not yet precisely know what is behind the lifespan-prolonging effect of rapamycin and frentizole, whether it is the ability to inhibit the mTOR signaling pathway, reduction in mitochondrial toxicity, immunosuppressive effect, or a combination of all of them, we have decided within our previous work to dock the entire in-house library of almost 240 Aβ-ABAD modulators into the FKBP-rapamycin-binding (FRB) domain of mTOR in order to interlink mTOR-centric and mitochondrial free radical-centric theories of aging and thus to increase the chances of success. Based on the results of the docking study, molecular dynamic simulation and MM-PBSA calculations, we have selected nine frentizole-like compounds (1 - 9). Subsequently, we have determined their real physical-chemical properties (logP, logD, pKa and solubility in water and buffer), cytotoxic/cytostatic, mTOR inhibitory, and in vitro anti-senescence (senolytic and senomorphic) effects. Finally, the three best candidates (4, 8, and 9) have been forwarded for in vivo safety studies to assess their acute toxicity and pharmacokinetic properties. Based on obtained results, only compound 4 demonstrated the best results within in vitro testing, the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and the lowest acute toxicity (LD50 in male mice 559 mg/kg; LD50 in female mice 575 mg/kg).

Rac2 mediate foam cell formation and associated immune responses in THP-1 to promote the process of atherosclerotic plaques

Macrophages play an important role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis (AS) by mediating oxidative stress, inflammation and lipid metabolism, which can lead to the formation of vascular plaque. The Rac family isoforms of small molecules GTPase are active by binding to GTPase, but are inactivated by binding to GDP, and play a role in the switch of cell information conduction. This experiment adopts shRNA interference THP-1 cells respectively each subtype expression and inhibiting Rac1, Rac2, Rac3 activity, each subtype of Rac family on lipid metabolism, inflammatory reaction and oxidative stress. THP-1 cells were stimulated with Ox-LDL to establish AS cell models including lipid loading, adhesion, migration and chemotaxis. Oil Red O staining, cell immunofluorescence, scratching test, transwell, Western blot and other experiments were performed. To observe the different effects of three subtypes of Rac family on multiple links in the foaming process of THP-1 cells. ApoE-/- mice on a high-fat diet were used as animal models to examine the effects of Rac subtypes in vivo. The results showed that the activation of immune cells induced by ox-LDL was inhibited when Rac1, Rac2 and Rac3 in THP-1 were decreased, respectively. Thus, Rac1 and Rac3 act in combination with ox-LDL and are associated with cellular oxidative stress and inflammation. This study provides new means and ideas for finding potential intervention targets that have important regulatory effects on atherosclerosis, and provides a new direction for the development of clinical drugs.

Oxidative Stress, Atherogenic Dyslipidemia, and Cardiovascular Risk

Oxidative stress is the consequence of an overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that exceeds the antioxidant defense mechanisms. Increased levels of ROS contribute to the development of cardiovascular disorders through oxidative damage to macromolecules, particularly by oxidation of plasma lipoproteins. One of the most prominent features of atherogenic dyslipidemia is plasma accumulation of small dense LDL (sdLDL) particles, characterized by an increased susceptibility to oxidation. Indeed, a considerable and diverse body of evidence from animal models and epidemiological studies was generated supporting oxidative modification of sdLDL particles as the earliest event in atherogenesis. Lipid peroxidation of LDL particles results in the formation of various bioactive species that contribute to the atherosclerotic process through different pathophysiological mechanisms, including foam cell formation, direct detrimental effects, and receptor-mediated activation of pro-inflammatory signaling pathways. In this paper, we will discuss recent data on the pathophysiological role of oxidative stress and atherogenic dyslipidemia and their interplay in the development of atherosclerosis. In addition, a special focus will be placed on the clinical applicability of novel, promising biomarkers of these processes.

Targeting oxidative stress as a preventive and therapeutic approach for cardiovascular disease

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) continue to exert a significant impact on global mortality rates, encompassing conditions like pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), atherosclerosis (AS), and myocardial infarction (MI). Oxidative stress (OS) plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis and advancement of CVDs, highlighting its significance as a contributing factor. Maintaining an equilibrium between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant systems not only aids in mitigating oxidative stress but also confers protective benefits on cardiac health. Herbal monomers can inhibit OS in CVDs by activating multiple signaling pathways, such as increasing the activity of endogenous antioxidant systems and decreasing the level of ROS expression. Given the actions of herbal monomers to significantly protect the normal function of the heart and reduce the damage caused by OS to the organism. Hence, it is imperative to recognize the significance of herbal monomers as prospective therapeutic interventions for mitigating oxidative damage in CVDs. This paper aims to comprehensively review the origins and mechanisms underlying OS, elucidate the intricate association between CVDs and OS, and explore the therapeutic potential of antioxidant treatment utilizing herbal monomers. Furthermore, particular emphasis will be placed on examining the cardioprotective effects of herbal monomers by evaluating their impact on cardiac signaling pathways subsequent to treatment.

An integrative review of nonobvious puzzles of cellular and molecular cardiooncology

Oncologic patients are subjected to four major treatment types: surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. All nonsurgical forms of cancer management are known to potentially violate the structural and functional integrity of the cardiovascular system. The prevalence and severity of cardiotoxicity and vascular abnormalities led to the emergence of a clinical subdiscipline, called cardiooncology. This relatively new, but rapidly expanding area of knowledge, primarily focuses on clinical observations linking the adverse effects of cancer therapy with deteriorated quality of life of cancer survivors and their increased morbidity and mortality. Cellular and molecular determinants of these relations are far less understood, mainly because of several unsolved paths and contradicting findings in the literature. In this article, we provide a comprehensive view of the cellular and molecular etiology of cardiooncology. We pay particular attention to various intracellular processes that arise in cardiomyocytes, vascular endothelial cells, and smooth muscle cells treated in experimentally-controlled conditions in vitro and in vivo with ionizing radiation and drugs representing diverse modes of anti-cancer activity.

Hydrogen Sulfide and Oxygen Homeostasis in Atherosclerosis: A Systematic Review from Molecular Biology to Therapeutic Perspectives

Atherosclerosis is a complex pathological condition marked by the accumulation of lipids in the arterial wall, leading to the development of plaques that can eventually rupture and cause thrombotic events. In recent years, hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) has emerged as a key mediator of cardiovascular homeostasis, with potential therapeutic applications in atherosclerosis. This systematic review highlights the importance of understanding the complex interplay between H₂S, oxygen homeostasis, and atherosclerosis and suggests that targeting H₂S signaling pathways may offer new avenues for treating and preventing this condition. Oxygen homeostasis is a critical aspect of cardiovascular health, and disruption of this balance can contribute to the development and progression of atherosclerosis. Recent studies have demonstrated that H₂S plays an important role in maintaining oxygen homeostasis by regulating the function of oxygen-sensing enzymes and transcription factors in vascular cells. H₂S has been shown to modulate endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) activity, which plays a key role in regulating vascular tone and oxygen delivery to tissues. The comprehensive analysis of the current understanding of H₂S in atherosclerosis can pave the way for future research and the development of new therapeutic strategies for this debilitating condition. PROSPERO ID: 417150.

Immune Infiltration in Atherosclerosis is Mediated by Cuproptosis-Associated Ferroptosis Genes

Aims: In this study, we aimed to identify cuproptosis-associated ferroptosis genes in the atherosclerosis microarray of the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and to explore hub gene-mediated immune infiltration in atherosclerosis.

Background: Immune infiltration plays a crucial role in atherosclerosis development. Ferroptosis is a mode of cell death caused by the iron-dependent accumulation of lipid peroxides. Cuproptosis is a recently discovered type of programmed cell death. No previous studies have examined the mechanism of cuproptosis-associated ferroptosis gene regulation in immune infiltration in atherosclerosis.

Methods: We searched the qualified atherosclerosis gene microarray in the GEO database, integrated it with ferroptosis and cuproptosis genes, and calculated the correlation coefficients. We then obtained the cuproptosis-associated ferroptosis gene matrix and screened differentially expressed genes. Subsequently, we performed Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses and protein–protein interaction network analysis of differentially expressed genes. We also screened hub genes according to the Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC) algorithm. We conducted enrichment analysis of hub genes to explore their functions and predict related microRNAs (P<0.05). We also used the single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) algorithm to analyze the relationships between hub genes and immune infiltration, and used immune-associated hub genes to construct a risk model. Finally, we used the drug prediction results and molecular docking technology to explore potential therapeutic drugs targeting the hub genes.

Results: Seventy-eight cuproptosis-associated ferroptosis genes were found to be involved in the cellular response to oxidative and chemical stress, and to be enriched in multiple pathways, including ferroptosis, glutathione metabolism, and atherosclerosis. Ten hub genes were identified with the MCC algorithm; according to the ssGSEA algorithm, these genes were closely associated with immune infiltration, thus indicating that cuproptosis-associated ferroptosis genes may participate in atherosclerosis by mediating immune infiltration. The receiver operating characteristic curve indicated that the model had a good ability to predict atherosclerosis risk. The results of drug prediction (adjusted P<0.001) and molecular docking showed that glutathione may be a potential therapeutic drug that targets the hub genes.

Conclusion: Cuproptosis-associated ferroptosis genes are associated with immune infiltration in atherosclerosis.

Induced Inflammatory and Oxidative Markers in Cerebral Microvasculature by Mentally Depressive Stress

Background

Cerebrovascular disease (CVD) is recognized as the leading cause of permanent disability worldwide. Depressive disorders are associated with increased incidence of CVD. The goal of this study was to establish a chronic restraint stress (CRS) model for mice and examine the effect of stress on cerebrovascular inflammation and oxidative stress responses.

Methods

A total of forty 6-week-old male C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into the CRS and control groups. In the CRS group (n = 20), mice were placed in a well-ventilated Plexiglas tube for 6 hours per day for 28 consecutive days. On day 29, open field tests (OFT) and sucrose preference tests (SPT) were performed to assess depressive-like behaviors for the two groups (n = 10/group). Macrophage infiltration into the brain tissue upon stress was analyzed by measuring expression of macrophage marker (CD68) with immunofluorescence in both the CRS and control groups (n = 10/group). Cerebral microvasculature was isolated from the CRS and controls (n = 10/group). mRNA and protein expressions of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), and macrophage chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) in the brain vessels were measured by real-time PCR and Western blot (n = 10/group). Reactive oxygen species (ROS), hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase (NOX) activities were quantified by ELISA to study the oxidative profile of the brain vessels (n = 10/group). Additionally, mRNA and protein expressions of NOX subunits (gp91^phox, p47^phox, p67^phox, and p22^phox) in the cerebrovascular endothelium were analyzed by real-time PCR and Western blot (n = 10/group).

Results

CRS decreased the total distances (p < 0.05) and the time spent in the center zone in OFT (p < 0.001) and sucrose preference test ratio in SPT (p < 0.01). Positive ratio of CD68⁺ was increased with CRS in the entire region of the brain (p < 0.001), reflecting increased macrophage infiltration. CRS increased the expression of inflammatory factors and oxidative stress in the cerebral microvasculature, including TNF-α (p < 0.001), IL-1β (p < 0.05), IL-6 (p < 0.05), VCAM-1 (p < 0.01), MCP-1 (p < 0.01), ROS (p < 0.001), and H₂O₂ (p < 0.001). NADPH oxidase (NOX) was activated by CRS (p < 0.01), and mRNA and protein expressions of NOX subunits (gp91^phox, p47^phox, p67^phox, and p22^phox) in brain microvasculature were found to be increased.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate that CRS induces depressive stress and causes inflammatory and oxidative stress responses in the brain microvasculature.

Plasma Thioredoxin Reductase as a Potential Biomarker for Gynecologic Cancer

BACKGROUND

According to previous literatures, plasma thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) level was significantly elevated in various malignant tumors and serve as a potential biomarker for diagnosis and prognostic prediction. However, there is little awareness of the clinical value of plasma TrxR in gynecologic malignancies. In the present study, we aim to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of plasma TrxR in gynecologic cancer and explore its role in treatment surveillance.

METHODS

We retrospectively enrolled 134 patients with gynecologic cancer and 79 patients with benign gynecologic disease. The difference of plasma TrxR activity and tumor markers level between two groups was compared using Mann-Whitney U test. By detecting pretreatment and post-treatment level of TrxR and conventional tumor markers, we further assessed the change trend of them with the Wilcoxon signed-ranks test.

RESULTS

Compared with benign control [5.7 (5, 6.6) U/mL], statistically significant increase of TrxR activity was observed in gynecologic cancer group [8.4 (7.25, 9.825) U/mL] (P < .0001), regardless of age and stage. On the basis of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, we found plasma TrxR shows the highest diagnostic efficacy for distinguishing malignancy with benign disease, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.823 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.767-0.878), in the whole cohort. Besides, patients receiving treatment previously [8 (6.5, 9) U/mL] had a decreased TrxR level relative to treatment-native patients [9.9 (8.6, 10.85) U/mL]. Furthermore, follow-up data showed that plasma TrxR level would be evidently decreased after two courses of antitumor therapy (P < .0001), which is consistent with the downward trend of conventional tumor markers.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, all these results demonstrated plasma TrxR is an effective parameter for gynecologic cancer diagnosis and concurrently acts as a promising biomarker for treatment response assessment.

Role of Single Nucleotide Polymorphism L55M in the Paraoxonase 1 Gene as a Risk and Prognostic Factor in Acute Coronary Syndrome

The aim of the current study is to explore the possible role of L55M, (rs 854560, 163T > A) SNP as a predisposing factor for acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and to assess its potency as a prognostic biomarker for short (1 year) survival and for median (5 years) and 9-year long patients’ outcome. Methods: The current work is a prospective case-control study with 77 patients with acute coronary syndrome (53 with ST-elevation myocardial infarction, STEMI, 14 with non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction, NSTEMI and 10 with unstable angina, UA) and 122 control individuals. Patients were followed-up for 9 years. The genotyping for PON1 L55M SNP was carried on by PCR-RFLP method. Results: The results of the genotyping for PON1 L55M SNP showed a statistically significant difference (p = 0.023) between the controls and the whole group of patients with acute coronary syndrome, as the individuals with genotype with at least one variant M allele had about 2.5-fold higher risk for developing ACS than those which are homozygous of the wild-type L allele (LL genotype). In patients with variant M allele genotypes (LM + MM) which suffer from non-ST-segment elevation ACS (NSTEACS, i.e., UA or NSTEMI), the serum levels of total cholesterol (TC) and triacylglycerols (TAG) are significantly higher than in NSTEACS patients with LL genotype (p = 0.022 for TC and p = 0.015 for TAG). There was no significant difference in the survival rate at the 1st, 5th and 9th year of follow-up between ACS patients with different genotypes, although it is worth to note that in the subgroup of NSTEACS, all patients (n = 13) with variant M allele genotypes (LM + MM) were alive at the end of the first year, while 2 of the patients with LL genotype (18.2%) were dead. Conclusions: The results of our current study suggest that the variant M allele and the M allele genotypes (LM + MM) of the PON1 L55M polymorphism are risk factors for acute coronary syndrome, especially for patients with STEMI, but do not support the possible effect of this polymorphism on the clinical progression and outcome of the patients with ACS either in short or long follow-up periods.

New Trends in Aging Drug Discovery

Aging is considered the main risk factor for many chronic diseases that frequently appear at advanced ages. However, the inevitability of this process is being questioned by recent research that suggests that senescent cells have specific features that differentiate them from younger cells and that removal of these cells ameliorates senescent phenotype and associated diseases. This opens the door to the design of tailored therapeutic interventions aimed at reducing and delaying the impact of senescence in life, that is, extending healthspan and treating aging as another chronic disease. Although these ideas are still far from reaching the bedside, it is conceivable that they will revolutionize the way we understand aging in the next decades. In this review, we analyze the main and well-validated cellular pathways and targets related to senescence as well as their implication in aging-associated diseases. In addition, the most relevant small molecules with senotherapeutic potential, with a special emphasis on their mechanism of action, ongoing clinical trials, and potential limitations, are discussed. Finally, a brief overview of alternative strategies that go beyond the small molecule field, together with our perspectives for the future of the field, is provided.

Alterungsbedingte Gefäßveränderungen am Beispiel der Arteria carotis

Einer der Hauptrisikofaktoren für das Vorliegen einer Karotisstenose und des karotisbedingten Schlaganfalls ist das Lebensalter. Ziel dieses Übersichtsartikels ist die Darstellung des aktuellen Wissensstands über altersbedingte Veränderungen der Gefäße am Beispiel der Karotisstenose.

Die Gefäßalterung (vaskuläre Seneszenz) als Abnahme struktureller und funktioneller Eigenschaften der Gefäßwand spielt sich auf verschiedenen Ebenen ab. Auf multizellulärer Ebene kommt es mit zunehmendem Alter hauptsächlich aufgrund von atherosklerotischen Veränderungen der Gefäßwand zu einer Zunahme von Gefäßvolumen und -durchmesser sowie der Intima-Media-Dicke. Auf zellulärer und extrazellulärer Ebene kommt es zur Abnahme von Elastinfasern, glatten Muskelzellen und der Gesamtzellularität sowie zur Zunahme der Lipid‑, Cholesterin- und Kalziumphosphatablagerungen und der Neovaskularisierung. Ursachen der Gefäßalterung auf molekularer Ebene sind insbesondere oxidativer Stress, chronische Entzündungsreaktion, mitochondriale Dysfunktion, epigenetische Veränderungen, Dysregulation der Expression nicht kodierender RNAs (ncRNAs) und die Zunahme der Seneszenz. Der altersbedingte Verlust der Heilungs- und Reparaturfähigkeit des Gewebes macht die Plaques vulnerabler und im Falle der A. carotis anfälliger für ischämische Schlaganfälle.

Zunehmende Erkenntnisse über den Einfluss des Alterns auf die Epigenetik und der ncRNAs in atherosklerotischen Plaques kann zukünftig das individuelle Risiko von Patienten genauer quantifizieren und zur Entwicklung zielgerichteter Therapiestrategien beitragen. Weitere Studien sind auf diesem Gebiet jedoch notwendig, um das gesamte Ausmaß der Gefäßalterung und den damit einhergehenden Erkrankungen zu verstehen, damit diesen dann gezielt entgegenwirkt werden kann.

Expatiating the Pharmacological and Nanotechnological Aspects of the Alkaloidal Drug Berberine: Current and Future Trends

Traditionally, herbal compounds have been the focus of scientific interest for the last several centuries, and continuous research into their medicinal potential is underway. Berberine (BBR) is an isoquinoline alkaloid extracted from plants that possess a broad array of medicinal properties, including anti-diarrheal, anti-fibrotic, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, antihyperlipidemic, antihypertensive, antiarrhythmic, antidepressant, and anxiolytic effects, and is frequently utilized as a traditional Chinese medicine. BBR promotes metabolisms of glucose and lipids by activating adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase, stimulating glycolysis and inhibiting functions of mitochondria; all of these ameliorate type 2 diabetes mellitus. BBR has also been shown to have benefits in congestive heart failure, hypercholesterolemia, atherosclerosis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and polycystic ovary syndrome. BBR has been investigated as an interesting pharmacophore with the potential to contribute significantly to the research and development of novel therapeutic medicines for a variety of disorders. Despite its enormous therapeutic promise, the clinical application of this alkaloid was severely limited because of its unpleasant pharmacokinetic characteristics. Poor bioavailability, limited absorption, and poor water solubility are some of the obstacles that restricted its use. Nanotechnology has been suggested as a possible solution to these problems. The present review aims at recent updates on important therapeutic activities of BBR and different types of nanocarriers used for the delivery of BBR in different diseases.

Nitrotyrosine, Nitrated Lipoproteins, and Cardiovascular Dysfunction in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: What Do We Know and What Remains to Be Explained?

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a strong risk factor for the development of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), which are the most important cause of morbidity and mortality in the population of patients living with DM. DM is associated with lipid metabolism disorders characterized by a decrease in the high-density lipoprotein blood concentration, an increase in the triglyceride blood concentration, and the presence of modified lipoproteins not routinely measured in clinical practice. Nitrated lipoproteins are produced by the nitration of the tyrosyl residues of apolipoproteins by myeloperoxidase. There is some evidence from the research conducted showing that nitrated lipoproteins may play a role in the development of cardiovascular dysfunction, but this issue requires further investigation. It was found that the nitration of HDL particles was associated with a decrease in caspase-3 and paraoxonase-1 activity, as well as a decrease in the activity of cholesterol transport via ABCA1, which reduces the protective effect of HDL particles on the cardiovascular system. Less information has been collected about the role of nitrated LDL particles. Thus far, much more information has been obtained on the relationship of nitrotyrosine expression with the presence of cardiovascular risk factors and the development of cardiovascular dysfunction. The purpose of this paper is to provide an extensive review of the literature and to present the most important information on the current state of knowledge on the association between nitrotyrosine and nitrated lipoproteins with dysfunction of the cardiovascular system, especially in patients living with DM. Moreover, directions for future research in this area were discussed.

Endothelial Senescence and the Chronic Vascular Diseases: Challenges and Therapeutic Opportunities in Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is probably one of the paradigms of disease linked to aging. Underlying the physiopathology of atherosclerosis are cellular senescence, oxidative stress, and inflammation. These factors are increased in the elderly and from chronic disease patients. Elevated levels of oxidative stress affect cellular function and metabolism, inducing senescence. This senescence modifies the cell phenotype into a senescent secretory phenotype. This phenotype activates immune cells, leading to chronic systemic inflammation. Moreover, due to their secretory phenotype, senescence cells present an increased release of highlighted extracellular vesicles that will change nearby/neighborhood cells and paracrine signaling. For this reason, searching for specific senescent cell biomarkers and therapies against the development/killing of senescent cells has become relevant. Recently, senomorphic and senolityc drugs have become relevant in slowing down or eliminating senescence cells. However, even though they have shown promising results in experimental studies, their clinical use is still yet to be determined.