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Wang X, Wang P. Effect of a protein kinase B (Akt) inhibitor on the angiogenesis of HUVECs and corneal neovascularization. Wien Klin Wochenschr 2024; 136:154-162. [PMID: 37261487 DOI: 10.1007/s00508-023-02208-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Corneal neovascularization (CNV) is a vision-threatening disease and an increasing public health concern. It was found that administering an Akt inhibitor in the second phase of retinopathy significantly decreased retinal neovascularization. METHODS This study investigated the effect of an Akt inhibitor on the angiogenesis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and its impacts on the degree of CNV and corneal opacity in a rat keratoplasty model. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) assays, tube formation assays, cell scratch experiments, and a fully allogeneic corneal transplant model were performed. RESULTS It was found that an Akt inhibitor inhibited the proliferation, angiogenesis, and migration of HUVECs induced by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). The results showed that both CNV and corneal opacity were decreased in rats after Akt inhibitor administration. CONCLUSION The research illustrates the vital role of Akt inhibitors in mediating CNV. The analysis shows that the Akt inhibitor may provide a novel and feasible therapeutic approach to prevent CNV, but its mechanism needs further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Wang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Chongqing Eye Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 1, Youyi Road, Yuanjiagang, Yuzhong District, 400016, Chongqing, China
| | - Peng Wang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Chongqing Eye Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 1, Youyi Road, Yuanjiagang, Yuzhong District, 400016, Chongqing, China.
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Zhang X, Zhao Q, Li B. Current and promising therapies based on the pathogenesis of Graves' ophthalmopathy. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1217253. [PMID: 38035032 PMCID: PMC10687425 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1217253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO) is a hyperthyroidism-related and immune-mediated disease that poses a significant threat to human health. The pathogenesis of GO primarily involves T cells, B cells, and fibroblasts, suggesting a pivotal role for the thyrotropin-antibody-immunocyte-fibroblast axis. Traditional treatment approaches for Graves' disease (GD) or GO encompass antithyroid drugs (ATDs), radioactive iodine, and beta-blockers. However, despite decades of treatment, there has been limited improvement in the global incidence of GO. In recent years, promising therapies, including immunotherapy, have emerged as leading contenders, demonstrating substantial benefits in clinical trials by inhibiting the activation of immune cells like Th1 and B cells. Furthermore, the impact of diet, gut microbiota, and metabolites on GO regulation has been recognized, suggesting the potential of non-pharmaceutical interventions. Moreover, as traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) components have been extensively explored and have shown effective results in treating autoimmune diseases, remarkable progress has been achieved in managing GO with TCM. In this review, we elucidate the pathogenesis of GO, summarize current and prospective therapies for GO, and delve into the mechanisms and prospects of TCM in its treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Zhang
- Eye School of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chengdu Integrated TCM and Western Medicine Hospital/Chengdu First People’s Hospital, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Standardization of Chinese Medicine, Ministry of Education, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Qixiang Zhao
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Peking University, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, China
| | - Bei Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chengdu Integrated TCM and Western Medicine Hospital/Chengdu First People’s Hospital, Chengdu, China
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Zhang X, Yu X, Yu Z, Fan C, Li Y, Li H, Shen Y, Sun Z, Zhang S. Network pharmacology and bioinformatics to identify molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets of Ruyi Jinhuang Powder in the treatment of monkeypox. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e33576. [PMID: 37115075 PMCID: PMC10145999 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000033576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Monkeypox outbreaks across the globe has aroused widespread concern. Ruyi Jinhuang Powder (RJP), a common formula in Chinese medicine, is used to treat pox-like illnesses. This study aimed to identify the molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets of RJP for the treatment of monkeypox using network pharmacology and bioinformatics techniques. The bioactive substances and potential targets of each component of RJP were retrieved from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP). The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of the monkeypox virus (MPXV) were identified from the GSE24125 by GEO2R. Key signaling pathways, bioactive components, and potential targets were obtained by bioinformatics analysis, including gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), disease ontology (DO), and protein-protein interactions (PPI) analyses. Finally, molecular docking was used to predict the interaction between active compounds and core targets. A total of 158 active ingredients and 17 drug-disease-shared targets of RJP were screened. Bioinformatics indicated that wogonin and quercetin might be potential drug candidates. Potential therapeutic targets were identified. Immune-related mechanisms that exerted antiviral effects included signaling pathways like TNF, age-rage, and c-type lectin receptor pathways. Our results illustrated the good therapeutic effect of RJP on monkeypox in terms of biological activity, potential targets, and molecular mechanism. This also offered a promising strategy to reveal the scientific basis and therapeutic mechanism of herbal formulas used to treat the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Zhang
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Xinping Yu
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Zhichao Yu
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Chengcheng Fan
- College of Rehabilitation, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yueming Li
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Huan Li
- College of First Clinical Medical, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yingkai Shen
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Zijin Sun
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Shuo Zhang
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
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Disulfiram: Mechanisms, Applications, and Challenges. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:antibiotics12030524. [PMID: 36978391 PMCID: PMC10044060 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12030524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Since disulfiram’s discovery in the 1940s and its FDA approval for alcohol use disorder, other indications have been investigated. This review describes potential clinical applications, associated risks, and challenges. Methods: For this narrative review, a PubMed search was conducted for articles addressing in vivo studies of disulfiram with an emphasis on drug repurposing for the treatment of human diseases. The key search terms were “disulfiram” and “Antabuse”. Animal studies and in vitro studies highlighting important mechanisms and safety issues were also included. Results: In total, 196 sources addressing our research focus spanning 1948–2022 were selected for inclusion. In addition to alcohol use disorder, emerging data support a potential role for disulfiram in the treatment of other addictions (e.g., cocaine), infections (e.g., bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Borrelia burgdorferi, viruses, parasites), inflammatory conditions, neurological diseases, and cancers. The side effects range from minor to life-threatening, with lower doses conveying less risk. Caution in human use is needed due to the considerable inter-subject variability in disulfiram pharmacokinetics. Conclusions: While disulfiram has promise as a “repurposed” agent in human disease, its risk profile is of concern. Animal studies and well-controlled clinical trials are needed to assess its safety and efficacy for non-alcohol-related indications.
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Teng M, Luo Y, Wang C, Lei A. Effect of Disulfiram on the Reproductive Capacity of Female Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032371. [PMID: 36768698 PMCID: PMC9916984 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
In the process of assisted reproduction, the high-oxygen in vitro environment can easily cause oxidative damage to oocytes. Disulfiram (DSF) can play an anti-oxidant or pro-oxidant role in different cells, and the effect of DSF on oocytes remains unclear. Moreover, it remains unclear whether the use of DSF in the early stages of pregnancy has a negative impact on the fetus. In this study, we found that DSF increased serum FSH levels and increased the ovulation rate in mice. Moreover, DSF enhanced the antioxidant capacity of oocytes and contributed to the success rate of in vitro fertilization. Moreover, the use of DSF in early pregnancy in mice increased the uterine horn volume and the degree of vascularization, which contributed to a successful pregnancy. In addition, it was found that DSF regulated the mRNA expression of angiogenesis-related genes (VEGF), follicular development-related genes (C1QTNF3, mTOR and PI3K), ovulation-related genes (MAPK1, MAPK3 and p38 MAPK) and antioxidant-related genes (GPX4 and CAT). These results indicate that DSF is helpful for increasing the antioxidant capacity of oocytes and the ovulation rate. In early pregnancy in mice, DSF promotes pregnancy by increasing the degree and volume of uterine vascularization.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Anmin Lei
- Correspondence: ; Tel./Fax: +86-029-87080068
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Zheng J, Duan H, You S, Liang B, Chen Y, Huang H. Research progress on the pathogenesis of Graves’ ophthalmopathy: Based on immunity, noncoding RNA and exosomes. Front Immunol 2022; 13:952954. [PMID: 36081502 PMCID: PMC9445982 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.952954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Graves’ ophthalmopathy (GO), also known as thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy, is a common potentially vision-threatening organ-specific autoimmune disease and the most common extrathyroidal manifestation of Graves’ disease. It can happen to those who have hyperthyroidism or euthyroidism. At present, the pathogenesis of GO has not been fully elucidated, and the majority of clinical treatments are symptomatic. Therefore, we are eager to discover any new therapeutic strategies that target the etiology of GO. To provide fresh ideas for the creation of new therapeutic techniques, this study primarily discusses the research state and progress of GO-related pathogenesis from the perspectives of GO’s cellular immunity, autoantigens, non-coding RNAs, and exosomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyi Zheng
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
- Department of Endocrinology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Honghong Duan
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Sufang You
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
- Department of Endocrinology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Bo Liang
- Department of Endocrinology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Yuping Chen
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
- Department of Endocrinology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Huibin Huang
- Department of Endocrinology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Huibin Huang,
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