Insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-I and IGF binding proteins axis in diabetes mellitus

Glucose Promotes EMMPRIN/CD147 and the Secretion of Pro-Angiogenic Factors in a Co-Culture System of Endothelial Cells and Monocytes

Vascular complications in Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients increase morbidity and mortality. In T2DM, angiogenesis is impaired and can be enhanced or reduced in different tissues ("angiogenic paradox"). The present study aimed to delineate differences between macrovascular and microvascular endothelial cells that might explain this paradox. In a monoculture system of human macrovascular (EaHy926) or microvascular (HMEC-1) endothelial cell lines and a monocytic cell line (U937), high glucose concentrations (25 mmole/L) increased the secretion of the pro-angiogenic factors CD147/EMMPRIN, VEGF, and MMP-9 from both endothelial cells, but not from monocytes. Co-cultures of EaHy926/HMEC-1 with U937 enhanced EMMPRIN and MMP-9 secretion, even in low glucose concentrations (5.5 mmole/L), while in high glucose HMEC-1 co-cultures enhanced all three factors. EMMPRIN mediated these effects, as the addition of anti-EMMPRIN antibody decreased VEGF and MMP-9 secretion, and inhibited the angiogenic potential assessed through the wound assay. Thus, the minor differences between the macrovascular and microvascular endothelial cells cannot explain the angiogenic paradox. Metformin, a widely used drug for the treatment of T2DM, inhibited EMMPRIN, VEGF, and MMP-9 secretion in high glucose concentration, and the AMPK inhibitor dorsomorphin enhanced it. Thus, AMPK regulates EMMPRIN, a key factor in diabetic angiogenesis, suggesting that targeting EMMPRIN may help in the treatment of diabetic vascular complications.

Effects of rasagiline combined with levodopa and benserazide hydrochloride on motor function and homocysteine and IGF-1 levels in elderly patients with Parkinson's disease

BACKGROUND

During the course of their illness, people with Parkinson's disease may see changes in their insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) and serum homocysteine (Hcy) indices. In this study, patients with intermediate to severe Parkinson's disease were examined for how Resagiline and levodopa and benserazide hydrochloride affected their motor performance, serum levels of homocysteine (Hcy), and insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1).

METHODS

From June 2020 to December 2021, a total of 100+ cases of Parkinson's patients over 60 years old in the middle and late stages of Parkinson's were seen in the outpatient and inpatient departments of the Third People's Hospital of Chengdu City and had a detailed observation record, and according to the inclusion criteria, the patients who met the criteria were randomly grouped into a clinical observation group and a control group. The subjects in the control group received only levodopa and benserazide hydrochloride treatment, while the observation group was treated with Resagiline in combination with the clinical control group. The total treatment observation period was 1 year for both groups, and the motor function and serum Hcy and IGF-1 indexes of both groups were compared after the end of treatment.

RESULTS

We randomly and evenly grouped 64 patients who met the requirements of the inclusion criteria into a clinical observation group and a control group, each with 32 patients, from among 168 patients over 60 years of age with detailed observation records in the middle and late stages of Parkinson's. After the 1-year observation period, we found that the total effective rate after treatment in the clinical observation group (93.75%) and significantly higher than that in the control group (68.75%) (P < 0.05); after 1 year of treatment, the UPDRS score decreased in both groups, and the observation group was significantly lower than the control group (P < 0.05); after treatment, serum Hcy decreased and IGF-1 increased in both groups, and the observation group was higher than the control group mean values (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with Parkinson's disease who are in the middle and late stages of the disease, the administration of Resagiline combined with levodopa and benserazide hydrochloride can significantly lower the body's serum Hcy level, significantly raise IGF-1 levels, and significantly improve motor function in patients with Parkinson's disease. It can also have significant therapeutic effects.

Excavation and characterization of key circRNAs for milk fat percentage in Holstein cattle

Milk fat percentage is one of the significant indicators governing the price and quality of milk and is regulated by a variety of non-coding RNAs. We used RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) techniques and bioinformatics approaches to explore potential candidate circular RNAs (circRNAs) regulating milk fat metabolism. After analysis, compared with low milk fat percentage (LMF) cows, 309 circRNAs were significantly differentially expressed in high milk fat percentage (HMF) cows. Functional enrichment and pathway analysis revealed that the main functions of the parental genes of differentially expressed circRNAs (DE-circRNAs) were related to lipid metabolism. We selected four circRNAs (Novel_circ_0000856, Novel_circ_0011157, novel_circ_0011944, and Novel_circ_0018279) derived from parental genes related to lipid metabolism as key candidate DE-circRNAs. Their head-to-tail splicing was demonstrated by linear RNase R digestion experiments and Sanger sequencing. However, the tissue expression profiles showed that only Novel_circ_0000856, Novel_circ_0011157, and Novel_circ_0011944 were expressed with high abundance in breast tissue. Based on the subcellular localization found that Novel_circ_0000856, Novel_circ_0011157, and Novel_circ_0011944 mainly function as competitive endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) in the cytoplasm. Therefore, we constructed their ceRNA regulatory networks, and the five hub target genes (CSF1, TET2, VDR, CD34, and MECP2) in ceRNAs were obtained by CytoHubba and MCODE plugins in Cytoscape, as well as tissue expression profiles analysis of target genes. These genes play a key role as important target genes in lipid metabolism, energy metabolism, and cellular autophagy. The Novel_circ_0000856, Novel_circ_0011157, and Novel_circ_0011944 regulate the expression of hub target genes through interaction with miRNAs and constitute key regulatory networks that may be involved in milk fat metabolism. The circRNAs obtained in this study may act as miRNA sponges and thus influence mammary gland development and lipid metabolism in cows, which improves our understanding of the role of circRNAs in cow lactation.

Transcriptional Profiling of Insulin-like Growth Factor Signaling Components in Embryonic Lung Development and Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis

Insulin-like growth factor (IGF) signaling controls the development and growth of many organs, including the lung. Loss of function of Igf1 or its receptor Igf1r impairs lung development and leads to neonatal respiratory distress in mice. Although many components of the IGF signaling pathway have shown to be dysregulated in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), the expression pattern of such components in different cellular compartments of the developing and/or fibrotic lung has been elusive. In this study, we provide a comprehensive transcriptional profile for such signaling components during embryonic lung development in mice, bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice and in human IPF lung explants. During late gestation, we found that Igf1 is upregulated in parallel to Igf1r downregulation in the lung mesenchyme. Lung tissues derived from bleomycin-treated mice and explanted IPF lungs revealed upregulation of IGF1 in parallel to downregulation of IGF1R, in addition to upregulation of several IGF binding proteins (IGFBPs) in lung fibrosis. Finally, treatment of IPF lung fibroblasts with recombinant IGF1 led to myogenic differentiation. Our data serve as a resource for the transcriptional profile of IGF signaling components and warrant further research on the involvement of this pathway in both lung development and pulmonary disease.

Hormonal patterns in men with prediabetes and diabetes in NHANES III: possible links with prostate cancer

PURPOSE

Pathways involving sex hormones and insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) have been proposed to explain, in part, the lower risk of prostate cancer among men with diabetes. To gain insights into potential biological mechanisms we explored differences in serum concentrations of sex hormones and IGFs across the trajectory from normoglycemia to prediabetes to poorly controlled diabetes.

METHODS

Using cross-sectional data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III we examined differences in levels of circulating sex hormones, sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), IGF-1, and IFG-binding protein 3 (IGFBP-3), according to diabetes status: no diabetes [n = 648], prediabetes [n = 578], undiagnosed diabetes [n = 106], well-controlled diabetes [n = 42], and poorly controlled diabetes [n = 56]. Adjusted geometric mean concentrations were derived using multivariable linear regression, adjusted for age, race, and other lifestyle factors.

RESULTS

Total testosterone concentrations were lower among prediabetics (4.89 ng/mL, 95% confidence interval (CI) 4.95-5.21) than men without prediabetes/diabetes (5.29 ng/mL, 95% CI 5.06-5.53) but did not reduce further across diabetes groups. Concentrations of estradiol, estimated free testosterone, SHGB, IGF-1, and IGFBP-3 did not differ. While the ratio of IGF-1 to IGFBP-3 was lower among men with prediabetics and undiagnosed diabetes than men without prediabetes/diabetes, there was no trend across groups. A positive trend for the ratio of estradiol-to-testosterone levels was observed across groups (p trend = 0.045).

CONCLUSION

Our findings do not provide clear support for either an androgen driven or IGF-driven pathway for the inverse association between diabetes and prostate cancer risk.

Pathophysiological pathways related to high plasma GDF-15 concentrations in patients with heart failure

AIMS

Elevated concentrations of Growth Differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15) in patients with heart failure (HF) have been consistently associated with worse clinical outcomes, but what disease mechanisms high GDF-15 concentrations represent remains unclear. Here, we aim to identify activated pathophysiological pathways related to elevated GDF-15 expression in patients with HF.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In 2279 patients with HF, we measured circulating levels of 363 biomarkers. Then, we performed a pathway over-representation analysis to identify key biological pathways between patients in the highest and lowest GDF-15 concentration quartiles. Data were validated in an independent cohort of 1705 patients with HF. In both cohorts, the strongest up-regulated biomarkers in those with high GDF-15 were fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF-23), death receptor 5 (TRAIL-R2), WNT1-inducible-signaling pathway protein 1 (WISP-1), TNF Receptor Superfamily Member 11a (TNFRSF11A), leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptor subfamily B member 4 (LILRB4), and Trefoil Factor 3 (TFF3). Pathway over-representation analysis revealed that high GDF-15 patients had increased activity of pathways related to inflammatory processes, notably positive regulation of chemokine production; response to interleukin 6 (IL-6); tumour necrosis factor (TNF) and death receptor activity; and positive regulation of T cell differentiation and inflammatory response. Furthermore, we found pathways involved in regulation of insulin-like growth factor (IGF) receptor signalling and regulatory pathways of tissue, bones, and branching structures. GDF-15 quartiles significantly predicted all-cause mortality and HF hospitalization.

CONCLUSION

Patients with HF and high plasma concentrations of GDF-15 are characterized by increased activation of inflammatory pathways and pathways related to IGF-1 regulation and bone/tissue remodelling.

Berberine Decreases Intestinal GLUT2 Translocation and Reduces Intestinal Glucose Absorption in Mice

Postprandial hyperglycemia is an important causative factor of type 2 diabetes mellitus, and permanent localization of intestinal GLUT2 in the brush border membrane is an important reason of postprandial hyperglycemia. Berberine, a small molecule derived from Coptidis rhizome, has been found to be potent at lowering blood glucose, but how berberine lowers postprandial blood glucose is still elusive. Here, we investigated the effect of berberine on intestinal glucose transporter 2 (GLUT2) translocation and intestinal glucose absorption in type 2 diabetes mouse model. Type 2 diabetes was induced by feeding of a high-fat diet and injection of streptozotocin and diabetic mice were treated with berberine for 6 weeks. The effects of berberine on intestinal glucose transport and GLUT2 translocation were accessed in isolated intestines and intestinal epithelial cells (IEC-6), respectively. We found that berberine treatment improved glucose tolerance and systemic insulin sensitivity in diabetic mice. Furthermore, berberine decreased intestinal glucose transport and inhibited GLUT2 translocation from cytoplasm to brush border membrane in intestinal epithelial cells. Mechanistically, berberine inhibited intestinal insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1R) phosphorylation and thus reduced localization of PLC-β2 in the membrane, leading to decreased GLUT2 translocation. These results suggest that berberine reduces intestinal glucose absorption through inhibiting IGF-1R-PLC-β2-GLUT2 signal pathway.

Nanostring-Based Identification of the Gene Expression Profile in Trigger Finger Samples

Trigger finger is a common yet vastly understudied fibroproliferative hand pathology, severely affecting patients' quality of life. Consistent trauma due to inadequate positioning within the afflicted finger's tendon/pulley system leads to cellular dysregulation and eventual fibrosis. While the genetic characteristics of the fibrotic tissue in the trigger finger have been studied, the pathways that govern the initiation and propagation of fibrosis are still unknown. The complete gene expression profile of the trigger finger has never been explored. Our study has used the Nanostring nCounter gene expression assay to investigate the molecular signaling involved in trigger finger pathogenesis. We collected samples from patients undergoing trigger finger (n = 4) release surgery and compared the gene expression to carpal tunnel tissue (n = 4). Nanostring nCounter analysis identified 165 genes that were differentially regulated; 145 of these genes were upregulated, whereas 20 genes were downregulated. We found that several collagen genes were significantly upregulated, and a regulatory matrix metalloproteinase (MMP), MMP-3, was downregulated. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that several known signaling pathways were dysregulated, such as the TGF-β1 and Wnt signaling pathways. We also found several novel signaling pathways (e.g., PI3K, MAPK, JAK-STAT, and Notch) differentially regulated in trigger finger. The outcome of our study helps in understanding the molecular signaling pathway involved in the pathogenesis of the trigger finger.

[Diabetes mellitus and cancer: a system of insulin-like growth factors]

Diabetes mellitus and malignant tumors are among the most common and complex diseases. Epidemiological studies have shown a strong relationship between these pathologies. The causality of this relationship has not yet been unambiguously established, but a number of probable biological mechanisms have been proposed to explain it through the effects of hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia on the process of oncogenesis. An important role in this is played by the axis of insulin-like growth factors, their receptors and binding proteins (IGF / IGFR / IGFBP). The review provides data on the structural elements of the insulin / IGF / IGFR / IGFBP signaling axis and their internal relationships in diabetes mellitus and in the development of malignant tumors. Significant changes in the axis that occur during the formation of the diabetic environment prepare the background, which, under certain conditions, can lead to the stimulation or inhibition of tumor development. The considered signaling system, playing a significant role in the physiology of normal cells, often functions as a decisive factor in the survival of tumor cells, providing fine context-dependent regulation of many cellular processes associated with oncogenesis. However, despite many years of in-depth studies of the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus and malignant tumors, the molecular mechanisms of the relationship between these pathologies are still largely unclear, and the internal heterogeneity of pathologies complicates research and interpretation of the results, leaving many questions.

Relationship of Serum Total Insulin-Like Growth Factor Binding Protein-3 with Insulin-Like Growth Factor-I and Glucose Tolerance in Korean Children and Adolescents

Insulin is important in glucose metabolism. However, insulin-like growth factor binding protein (IGFBP) also plays an important role in glucose homeostasis, although the IGF-independent role of IGFBP-3 in the glucose intolerance state is poorly understood. We investigated the relationship of serum IGF-I with total IGFBP-3 levels and glucose tolerance in Korean children and adolescents who underwent the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). A total of 187 children without known diabetes underwent OGTT, and data related to their clinical and laboratory parameters were collected. Serum IGF-I and total IGFBP-3 levels, fasting plasma glucose levels, lipid profiles, insulin levels, C-peptide levels, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) index, and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels were measured. Serum IGF-I and total IGFBP-3 levels were significantly higher in individuals with impaired glucose tolerance and type 2 diabetes (DM) than in those with normal glucose tolerance (NGT) (P < 0.05). Serum IGF-I and IGFBP-3 levels were correlated with age, HbA1c, C-peptide, insulin, and HOMA-IR in the NGT group. However, these relationships were altered in patients with glucose intolerance, especially in those with DM. In the DM group, serum IGF-I and total IGFBP-3 levels were positively correlated with fasting plasma glucose and HbA1c levels. In addition, total IGFBP-3 levels were positively correlated with total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and IGF-I levels but not with age or body mass index. The IGF-I-IGFBP-3 axis, especially IGFBP-3, may be involved in the pathogenesis and metabolic control of glucose intolerance, specifically in diabetes patients. Moreover, IGFBP-3 might be a therapeutic marker.

Relationships Between Serum Expression of IGF-1 and Metabolic Syndrome Metrics in Syrian Women with Breast Cancer

Background and aims: Insulin-like Growth Factors (IGF-1) plays as mediator between metabolic syndrome (MetS), oxidative stress and breast cancer (BrCa) progression. The objective of this study was to examine the relationships between IGF-1 serum levels and metabolic profile biomarkers in a population group of BrCa patients.

Material and methods: 126 Syrian women with breast lesions were assigned in 3 study groups: I. Malignant breast tumor group, II. Benign breast tumor group and a Normal (control) group. The following biochemical parameters were measured: IGF-1, HDL-cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, triglycerides (TG) and glucose.

Results: The mean levels of serum IGF- 1 in patients with breast cancer was significantly higher than those with benign tumors but we did not find any correlation between IGF-1 serum levels and tumor stage or lymph nodes metastases. Total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol levels, along with TG were significantly higher in patients with BrCa versus benign and normal subjects.

Conclusion: Results support the link of metabolic dysregulation and oxidative stress in BrCa progression as elevation of serum IGF-1 levels in BrCa patients are associated with metabolic syndrome markers which eventually adds more risk in cancer progression.

Expression of genes encoding IGF1, IGF2, and IGFBPs in blood of obese adolescents with insulin resistance

OBJECTIVE

The development of obesity and its metabolic complications is associated with dys-regulation of various intrinsic mechanisms, which control basic metabolic processes via changes in the expression of numerous regulatory genes. The main goal of this work was to study the association between the expression of insulin-like growth factors (IGF1 and IGF2) and IGF-binding proteins and insulin resistance in obese adolescents for evaluation of possible contribution of these genes in development of insulin resistance.

METHODS

The expression of IGF1, IGF2, and IGFBPs mRNA was measured in blood of obese adolescents with normal insulin sensitivity and insulin resistance in comparison with the normal (control) individuals.

RESULTS

In the blood of obese adolescents with normal insulin sensitivity the expression of IGFBP4, IGFBP5 and HTRA1 genes was down-regulated, but IGFBP2 and IGFBP7 genes up-regulated as compared to control (normal) group. At the same time, no significant changes in IGF1 and IGF2 gene expressions in this group of obese adolescents were found. Insulin resistance in obese adolescents led to up-regulation of IGF2, IGFBP2, and IGFBP7 gene expressions as well as to down-regulation of the expression of IGF1, IGFBP5 and HTRA1 genes in the blood in comparison with the obese patients, which have normal insulin sensitivity. Furthermore, the level of IGFBP4 gene expression was similar in both groups of obese adolescents.

CONCLUSIONS

Results of this investigation provide evidence that insulin resistance in obese adolescents is associated with gene specific changes in the expression of IGF1, IGF2, IGFBP2, IGFBP5, IGFBP7, and HTRA1 genes and these changes possibly contribute to the development of glucose intolerance and insulin resistance.

Potential of Gentiana lutea for the Treatment of Obesity-associated Diseases

BACKGROUND

Obesity, diabetes, and associated diseases are increasing all over the world, and pose a great burden on public health. According to the latest reports, 440 million people are suffering from diabetes. Diabetes is caused by impaired ability to produce or respond to the hormone insulin consequently resulting in hyperglycemia.

METHODS

Data used for this review was obtained by using PUBMED/MEDLINE (1987-2018). The main data search terms were: Gentiana lutea, Gentiana lutea extract, Gentiana lutea constituents, obesity, diabetes mellitus, diabetic complications.

RESULTS

In the present review, we describe the potential of root powder of yellow gentian (Gentiana lutea) for the prevention of obesity and diabetes including complications related to this disease.

CONCLUSION

Reasonably effective, low-cost alternatives could fulfill an important role for a large part of the human population and could be of great value for the food market. Even a modest reduction of morbidity and mortality with respect to this disease translates into millions of lives saved.

Production of CAR T-cells by GMP-grade lentiviral vectors: latest advances and future prospects

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cells represent a paradigm shift in cancer immunotherapy and a new milestone in the history of oncology. In 2017, the Food and Drug Administration approved two CD19-targeted CAR T-cell therapies (Kymriah™, Novartis, and Yescarta™, Kite Pharma/Gilead Sciences) that have remarkable efficacy in some B-cell malignancies. The CAR approach is currently being evaluated in multiple pivotal trials designed for the immunotherapy of hematological malignancies as well as solid tumors. To generate CAR T-cells ex vivo, lentiviral vectors (LVs) are particularly appealing due to their ability to stably integrate relatively large DNA inserts, and to efficiently transduce both dividing and nondividing cells. This review discusses the latest advances and challenges in the design and production of CAR T-cells, and the good manufacturing practices (GMP)-grade production process of LVs used as a gene transfer vehicle. New developments in the application of CAR T-cell therapy are also outlined with particular emphasis on next-generation allogeneic CAR T-cells.

Insulin-like growth factor-1 is inversely associated with liver fibrotic markers in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

AIMS/INTRODUCTION

Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) regulates mitochondrial function, oxidative stress, inflammation, stellate cells and insulin sensitivity in the liver, and it might be associated with liver fibrosis from non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. In contrast, type 2 diabetes mellitus is closely associated with the progression from non-alcoholic fatty liver to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and cirrhosis, so careful evaluation of liver fibrosis is required for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Therefore, we examined the relationship between IGF-1 and liver fibrosis markers in type 2 diabetes patients without obvious alcoholic consumption and determined whether IGF-1 is associated with fibrosis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We selected 415 patients with type 2 diabetes without obvious alcohol consumption, who were admitted to Uwajima City Hospital between May 2013 and December 2016. We collected and analyzed clinical data to determine correlations between IGF-1 or IGF-1 standard deviation score and fibrosis-4 index or 7S domain of type IV collagen.

RESULTS

Multiple linear regression analysis showed that the fibrosis-4 index was inversely correlated with IGF-1 and IGF-1 standard deviation score. Furthermore, the 7S domain of type IV collagen was also inversely correlated with IGF-1 and IGF-1 standard deviation score.

CONCLUSIONS

IGF-1 was inversely correlated with liver fibrosis markers in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients without obvious alcoholic consumption. Measuring serum IGF-1 levels might help clinicians to identify type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with advanced non-alcoholic steatohepatitis.

Effect of diets supplemented with linseed alone or combined with vitamin E and selenium or with plant extracts, on Longissimus thoracis transcriptome in growing-finishing Italian Large White pigs

Background

Supplementing farm animals diet with functional ingredients may improve the nutritional quality of meat products. Diet composition has been also demonstrated to influence the gene expression with effect on biological processes and pathways. However, the knowledge on the effect of nutrients at the molecular level is scant. In particular, studies on the effects of antioxidants and polyphenols dietary supplementation have been investigated mainly in rodents, and only scarcely in farm animals so far. RNA-Seq with next-generation sequencing is increasingly the method of choice for studying changes in the transcriptome and it has been recently employed also in pig nutrigenomics studies to identify diet-induced changes in gene expression. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of diets enriched with functional ingredients (linseed, vitamin E and plant extracts) on the transcriptome of pig Longissimus thoracis to elucidate the role of these compounds in influencing genes involved in muscle physiology and metabolism compared to a standard diet.

Results

Eight hundred ninety-three significant differentially expressed genes (DEGs) (FDR adjusted P-value ≤ 0.05) were detected by RNA-Seq analysis in the three diet comparisons (D2-D1, D3-D1, D4-D1). The functional analysis of DEGs showed that the diet enriched with n-3 PUFA from linseed (D2) mostly downregulated genes in pathways and biological processes (BPs) related to muscle development, contraction, and glycogen metabolism compared to the standard diet. The diet supplemented with linseed and vitamin E/Selenium (D3) showed to mostly downregulate genes linked to oxidative phosphorylation. Only few genes involved in extracellular matrix (ECM) organization were upregulated by the D3. Finally, the comparison D4-D1 showed that the diet supplemented with linseed and plant extracts (D4) upregulated the majority of genes compared to D1 that were involved in a complex network of pathways and BPs all connected by hub genes. In particular, IGF2 was a hub gene connecting protein metabolism, ECM organization, immune system and lipid biosynthesis pathways.

Conclusion

The supplementation of pig diet with n-3 PUFA from linseed, antioxidants and plant-derived polyphenols can influence the expression of a relevant number of genes in Longissimus thoracis muscle that are involved in a variety of biochemical pathways linked to muscle function and metabolism.

Systems Oncology: Bridging Pancreatic and Castrate Resistant Prostate Cancer

Large investments by pharmaceutical companies in the development of new antineoplastic drugs have not been resulting in adequate advances of new therapies. Despite the introduction of new methods, technologies, translational medicine and bioinformatics, the usage of collected knowledge is unsatisfactory. In this paper, using examples of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PaC) and castrate-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), we proposed a concept showing that, in order to improve applicability of current knowledge in oncology, the re-clustering of clinical and scientific data is crucial. Such an approach, based on systems oncology, would include bridging of data on biomarkers and pathways between different cancer types. Proposed concept would introduce a new matrix, which enables combining of already approved therapies between cancer types. Paper provides a (a) detailed analysis of similarities in mechanisms of etiology and progression between PaC and CRPC, (b) diabetes as common hallmark of both cancer types and (c) knowledge gaps and directions of future investigations. Proposed horizontal and vertical matrix in cancer profiling has potency to improve current antineoplastic therapy efficacy. Systems biology map using Systems Biology Graphical Notation Language is used for summarizing complex interactions and similarities of mechanisms in biology of PaC and CRPC.

Biomarkers and Gene Polymorphisms in Members of Long- and Short-lived Families: A Longevity Study

Background

The influence of biomarkers in human lifespan has been investigated but with no clear results yet.

Materials and methods

Lipids, Uric Acid (UA), Adiponectin (ADIPOQ), Insulin-like Growth Factor (IGF-1), cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) proteins, as well as CETP, ADIPOQ, insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP3) and ACE-gene polymorphisms were evaluated in 149 Greek individuals. The Long-Lived Families (LON) (n=84) comprised of 3 generations: long-lived aged ≥90 years (P), offspring (FL1) and their grandchildren (FL2), while the Short-Lived Families (EAD) (n=65) where both parents died <75 years, comprised of 2 generations: middle-aged (FD1) and children (FD2).

Results

Serum CETP and IGF-1 levels were lower, whereas AdipoQ concentrations were higher in P compared with FL1 and FL2 members (CETP: p = 0.03 for both comparisons; IGF-1 p < 0.001 for both comparisons and ADIPOQ: p = 0.001 and p = 0.004, respectively). Furthermore, serum triglycerides, UA and glucose concentrations were higher in FD1 compared with FD2 subjects (p=0.001, 0.02 and ≤0.001, respectively). In FD2 and FL2, CETP levels were lower in individuals with B2B2 compared with B1B1 genotype (p=0.007). Additionally, ACE concentrations were higher in individuals with DD compared with II genotype in both Families (p=0.001). After adjustment for age and gender, CETP levels were lower in P and FL2 individuals with B2B2 compared with the B1B1 genotype (p=0.004 and 0.007, respectively).

Conclusion

Increase serum TGs, UA and GL concentrations were higher in the middle-aged individuals compared with their children in families independently of their lifespan. The serum adiponectin concentration was the highest in the oldest old individuals implying beneficial influence on lifespan. Independently of family's lifespan history, the youngest individuals with CETPB2B2 genotype, compared with individuals with CETPB1B1 genotypes, had lower serum CETP concentrations. The knowledge of the unfavourable gene(s)influencing human lifespan may be helpful in encouraging individuals to follow healthier lifestyle habits and better control their high-risk biomarkers.

Challenges in Orphan Drug Development: Identification of Effective Therapy for Thyroid-Associated Ophthalmopathy

Thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO), the ocular manifestation of Graves' disease, is a process in which orbital connective tissues and extraocular muscles undergo inflammation and remodeling. The condition seems to result from autoimmune responses to antigens shared by the thyroid and orbit. The thyrotropin receptor (TSHR), expressed at low levels in orbital tissues, is a leading candidate antigen. Recent evidence suggests that another protein, the insulin-like growth factor-I receptor (IGF-IR), is overexpressed in TAO, and antibodies against IGF-IR have been detected in patients with the disease. Furthermore, TSHR and IGF-IR form a physical and functional complex, and signaling initiated at TSHR requires IGF-IR activity. Identification of therapy for this rare disease has proven challenging and currently relies on nonspecific and inadequate agents, thus representing an important unmet need. A recently completed therapeutic trial suggests that inhibiting IGF-IR activity with a monoclonal antibody may be an effective and safe treatment for active TAO.

Role of IGF-binding proteins in regulating IGF responses to changes in metabolism

The IGF-binding protein family contains six members that share significant structural homology. Their principal function is to regulate the actions of IGF1 and IGF2. These proteins are present in plasma and extracellular fluids and regulate access of both IGF1 and II to the type I IGF receptor. Additionally, they have functions that are independent of their ability to bind IGFs. Each protein is regulated independently of IGF1 and IGF2, and this provides an important mechanism by which other hormones and physiologic variables can regulate IGF actions indirectly. Several members of the family are sensitive to changes in intermediary metabolism. Specifically the presence of obesity/insulin resistance can significantly alter the expression of these proteins. Similarly changes in nutrition or catabolism can alter their synthesis and degradation. Multiple hormones such as glucocorticoids, androgens, estrogen and insulin regulate IGFBP synthesis and bioavailability. In addition to their ability to regulate IGF access to receptors these proteins can bind to distinct cell surface proteins or proteins in extracellular matrix and several cellular functions are influenced by these interactions. IGFBPs can be transported intracellularly and interact with nuclear proteins to alter cellular physiology. In pathophysiologic states, there is significant dysregulation between the changes in IGFBP synthesis and bioavailability and changes in IGF1 and IGF2. These discordant changes can lead to marked alterations in IGF action. Although binding protein physiology and pathophysiology are complex, experimental results have provided an important avenue for understanding how IGF actions are regulated in a variety of physiologic and pathophysiologic conditions.

Pathophysiological analyses of skeletal muscle in obese type 2 diabetes SDT fatty rats

Sarcopenia is the age-related decrease of muscle mass and function. Diabetes and obesity are known to be risk factors that exacerbate sarcopenia, but the underlying mechanism of diabetes-related sarcopenia is still unknown. Obese type 2 diabetes SDT fatty rats show early onset of severe diabetes and there have been no reports on the characteristics of their skeletal muscle. Therefore, pathophysiological analyses were performed for the skeletal muscle in these rats. Diabetic male SDT fatty rats were sacrificed at 8, 16, 24, 32 and 40 weeks of age. Age-matched Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were used as the normal control. In addition to biological blood parameters, the soleus and the extensor digitorum longus muscles were examined for muscle weight, histopathology, and protein synthesis and degradation. Muscle grip strength was also examined. These results revealed that the muscle weights of the SDT fatty rats were significantly decreased from 16 weeks of age. The mean cross-sectional area of muscle fibers in the SDT fatty rats decreased from 24 weeks of age. Increased intramyocellular lipid accumulation, identified by immunohistochemistry for adipophilin and TEM, was observed in the SDT fatty rats from 8 weeks of age. Plasma insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 levels and muscle strength in the SDT fatty rats decreased at 24 weeks of age and thereafter. These pathophysiological findings have been reported both in sarcopenia in aged humans and in patients with diabetes. In conclusion, the SDT fatty rat was considered to be a useful model for analysis of diabetes-related sarcopenia.

TXNDC5 contributes to rheumatoid arthritis by down-regulating IGFBP1 expression

The thioredoxin domain-containing 5 (TXNDC5) gene is associated with susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and exhibits increased expression in the synovial tissues. TXNDC5 is also associated strongly with diabetes, a metabolic disease characterized by interrupted insulin signalling. This study investigated whether TXNDC5 contributes to RA via the insulin signalling pathway. In this study, RA synovial fibroblast-like cells (RASFs) transfected with an anti-TXNDC5 small interfering RNA (siRNA) were analysed with an insulin signaling pathway RT² profiler polymerase chain reaction (PCR) array and an insulin resistance RT² profiler PCR array. The PCR arrays detected significantly increased expression of insulin-like growth factor binding protein 1 (IGFBP1) in RASFs with suppressed TXNDC5 expression. The result was verified using real-time PCR and Western blot analyses. Significantly elevated IGFBP1 expression and decreased interleukin (IL)-6 secretion were also detected in culture medium of transfected RASFs. Furthermore, decreased IGFBP1 mRNA and protein expression levels were detected in RA synovial tissues. Additionally, significantly increased apoptosis and decreased cell proliferation and cell migration were observed in RASFs transfected with the anti-TXNDC5 siRNA, whereas transfection with the anti-IGFBP1 siRNA or a mixture of the anti-IGFBP1 and anti-TXNDC5 siRNAs restored normal cell proliferation, migration and IL-6 level in RASFs. Insulin-like growth factor (IGF) has potent prosurvival and anti-apoptotic functions, and IGFBP1 can suppress IGF activity. Based on the results of the present study, we suggest that TXNDC5 contributes to abnormal RASF proliferation, migration and IL-6 production by inhibiting IGFBP1 expression.

Expression of genes encoding IGFBPs, SNARK, CD36, and PECAM1 in the liver of mice treated with chromium disilicide and titanium nitride nanoparticles

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of chromium disilicide and titanium nitride nanoparticles on the expression level of genes encoding important regulatory factors (IGFBP1, IGFBP2, IGFBP3, IGFBP4, IGFBP5, SNARK/NUAK2, CD36, and PECAM1/CD31) in mouse liver for evaluation of possible toxic effects of these nanoparticles.

METHODS

Male mice received 20 mg chromium disilicide nanoparticles (45 nm) and titanium nitride nanoparticles (20 nm) with food every working day for 2 months. The expression of IGFBP1, IGFBP2, IGFBP3, IGFBP4, IGFBP5, SNARK, CD36, and PECAM1 genes in mouse liver was studied by quantitative polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

Treatment of mice with chromium disilicide nanoparticles led to down-regulation of the expression of IGFBP2, IGFBP5, PECAM1, and SNARK genes in the liver in comparison with control mice, with more prominent changes for SNARK gene. At the same time, the expression of IGFBP3 and CD36 genes was increased in mouse liver upon treatment with chromium disilicide nanoparticles. We have also shown that treatment with titanium nitride nanoparticles resulted in down-regulation of the expression of IGFBP2 and SNARK genes in the liver with more prominent changes for SNARK gene. At the same time, the expression of IGFBP3, IGFBP4, and CD36 genes was increased in the liver of mice treated with titanium nitride nanoparticles. Furthermore, the effect of chromium disilicide nanoparticles on IGFBP2 and CD36 genes expression was significantly stronger as compared to titanium nitride nanoparticles.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study demonstrate that chromium disilicide and titanium nitride nanoparticles have variable effects on the expression of IGFBP2, IGFBP3, IGFBP4, IGFBP5, SNARK, CD36, and PECAM1 genes in mouse liver, which may reflect the genotoxic activities of the studied nanoparticles.

A Functional Interplay between IGF-1 and Adiponectin

A functional relationship is suggested between two well-known protein hormones, insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and adiponectin. In the last two decades in fact, different experimental evidence has indicated a non-random link between them. Here, we describe briefly the IGF-1 and adiponectin systems, and we then focus on their putative interplay in relation to several pathological conditions, including obesity, diabetes, insulin resistance, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Although the existing studies are hardly comparable, they definitely indicate a functional connection between these two protein hormones. In conclusion, the current knowledge strongly encourages further research into the common, as well as novel, mechanisms through which IGF-1 and adiponectin exert their concerted action.

Vitamin D increases IGF-I and insulin levels in experimental diabetic rats

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE

Previous studies have found that IGF-I may play an important role in glucose metabolism. The aim of this study is to examine the effect of vitamin D intake on the serum levels of glucose, insulin, and IGF-I in experimental diabetic rats.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 24 male Sprague-Dawley rats aged six to seven months, with an average weight of 300±30g, were randomly divided into three groups (eight rats per group). The first group served as control and the other two groups received an intraperitoneal injection of 45mg/kg streptozotocin (STZ) to develop diabetes. Then groups were treated for four weeks either with placebo or vitamin D (two injections of 20,000IU/kg).

RESULTS

At the end of the experiment, two injection of vitamin D were found to result in a significant increase in plasma cholecalciferol, which could improve hyperglycaemia and hypoinsulinemia in diabetic rats. HbA1c concentration had a slight and insignificant decrease following vitamin D intake. In addition, a significant decline was observed in the serum IGF-I level of STZ-treated rats in comparison to the controls, which was compensated in the vitamin D group. The serum vitamin D concentration was positively correlated to the changes in IGF-I level by Pearson test.

CONCLUSIONS

These data showed for the first time that vitamin D intake could significantly improve fasting plasma glucose, insulin, and IGF-I in an experimental type 1 diabetes model.

The energy sensing LKB1-AMPKα1 pathway regulates IGF1 secretion and consequent activation of the IGF1R-PKB pathway in primary hepatocytes

The insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) pathway has been linked with various diseases including diabetes, cancer and aging. In contrast to the well-established regulatory mechanisms controlling IGF1 expression, molecular mechanisms regulating its secretion are not fully understood. The AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a key energy sensor, and cumulative evidence shows that it is an attractive therapeutic target for treatment of diabetes, cancer and aging. Here we found that deficiency of AMPK promoted IGF1 secretion in mouse primary hepatocytes. Furthermore, we found that AMPKα1 but not AMPKα2 was involved in regulation of IGF1 secretion in mouse primary hepatocytes. Knockout of AMPK caused activation of the IGF1 receptor (IGF1R)-protein kinase B (PKB; also known as Akt) pathway in hepatocytes, which was mediated by hypersecretion of IGF1. Upstream of AMPK, liver kinase B1 (LKB1) was responsible for AMPK-dependent suppression of IGF1 secretion in hepatocytes. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that the energy-sensing LKB1-AMPK pathway regulates IGF1 secretion in mouse primary hepatocytes, which in turn regulates activation of the IGF1R-PKB pathway.

IGF-1 in retinopathy of prematurity, a CNS neurovascular disease

The retina is part of the central nervous system and both the retina as well as the brain can suffer from severe damage after very preterm birth. Retinopathy of prematurity is one of the major causes of blindness in these children and brain neuronal impairments including cognitive defects, cerebral palsy and intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) are also complications of very preterm birth. Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) acts to promote proliferation, maturation, growth and survival of neural cells. Low levels of circulating IGF-1 are associated with ROP and defects in the IGF-1 gene are associated with CNS disorders including learning deficits and brain growth restriction. Treatment of preterm infants with recombinant IGF-1 may potentially prevent ROP and CNS disorders. This review compares the role of IGF-1 in ROP and CNS disorders. A recent phase 2 study showed a positive effect of IGF-1 on the severity of IVH but no effect on ROP. A phase 3 trial is planned.

Insulin-like growth factor-1 improves diabetic cardiomyopathy through antioxidative and anti-inflammatory processes along with modulation of Akt/GSK-3β signaling in rats

Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM), a serious complication of diabetes mellitus, is associated with changes in myocardial structure and function. This study sought to explore the ability of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) to modulate DCM and its related mechanisms. Twenty-four male Wistar rats were injected with streptozotocin (STZ, 60 mg/kg) to mimic diabetes mellitus. Myocardial fibrosis and apoptosis were evaluated by histopathologic analyses, and relevant proteins were analyzed by Western blotting. Inflammatory factors were assessed by ELISA. Markers of oxidative stress were tested by colorimetric analysis. Rats with DCM displayed decreased body weight, metabolic abnormalities, elevated apoptosis (as assessed by the bcl-2/bax ratio and TUNEL assays), increased fibrosis, increased markers of oxidative stress (MDA and SOD) and inflammatory factors (TNF-α and IL-1β), and decreased phosphorylation of Akt and glycogen synthase kinase (GSK-3β). IGF-1 treatment, however, attenuated the metabolic abnormalities and myocardial apoptosis, interstitial fibrosis, oxidative stress and inflammation seen in diabetic rats, while also increasing the phosphorylation levels of Akt and GSK-3β. These findings suggest that IGF-1 ameliorates the pathophysiological progress of DCM along with an activation of the Akt/GSK-3β signaling pathway. Our findings suggest that IGF-1 could be a potential therapeutic choice for controlling DCM.

Elevated expression levels of serum insulin-like growth factor-1, tumor necrosis factor-α and vascular endothelial growth factor 165 might exacerbate type 2 diabetic nephropathy

AIMS/INTRODUCTION

The present study aimed to determine the associations between expressions of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and vascular endothelial growth factor 165 (VEGF₁₆₅ ) in serum, and occurrence and development of type 2 diabetic nephropathy (DN).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 108 patients diagnosed as DN were randomly selected, including 50 patients in the microalbuminuria group, 44 patients in the macroalbuminuria group and 14 patients in the renal insufficiency group. Meanwhile, 97 healthy people were collected as a normal control group. Urinary albumin (UALB) and urine creatinine (Cr) of all participants were measured for 24 h, with their ratio (UALB/Cr) being calculated. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to detect the serum concentrations of IGF-1, TNF-α and VEGF₁₆₅ .

RESULTS

The expressions of serum IGF-1, TNF-α and VEGF₁₆₅ in the type 2 DN patients were significantly higher than those in the control group (all P < 0.05). The expressions of serum IGF-1, TNF-α and VEGF₁₆₅ in the type 2 DN patients were positively correlated with UALB/Cr (all P < 0.05). As type 2 DN worsened, the expressions of serum IGF-1, TNF-α and VEGF₁₆₅ increased, and type 2 DN severity had positive correlations with serum IGF-1, TNF-α and VEGF₁₆₅ concentrations (all P < 0.05). There was a positive association between IGF-1 and TNF-α, IGF-1 and VEGF₁₆₅ , and TNF-α and VEGF₁₆₅ (all P < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis showed that IGF-1 and VEGF₁₆₅ were associated with the progression of DN (both P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Elevated expression levels of serum IGF-1, TNF-α and VEGF₁₆₅ might exacerbate type 2 DN.

Retinopathy of prematurity: the need for prevention

More than 450,000 babies are born prematurely in the USA every year. The improved survival of even the most vulnerable low body weight preterm infants has, despite improving health outcomes, led to the resurgence in preterm complications including one of the major causes for blindness in children, retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). The current mainstay in ROP therapy is laser photocoagulation and the injection of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) antibodies in the late stages of the disease after the onset of neovascularization. Both are proven options for ophthalmologists to treat the severe forms of late ROP. However, laser photocoagulation destroys major parts of the retina, and the injection of VEGF antibodies, although rather simple to administer, may cause a systemic suppression of normal vascularization, which has not been studied in sufficient depth. However, the use of neither VEGF antibody nor laser treatment prevents ROP, which should be the long-term goal. It should be possible to prevent ROP by more closely mimicking the intrauterine environment after preterm birth. Such preventive measures include preventing the toxic postbirth influences (eg, oxygen excess) as well as providing the missing intrauterine factors (eg, insulin growth factor 1) and are likely to also reduce other complications of premature birth as well as ROP. This review is meant to summarize the current knowledge on the prevention of ROP with a particular emphasize on the use of insulin growth factor 1 supplementation.

Direct regulation of IGF-binding protein 1 promoter by interleukin-1β via an insulin- and FoxO-1-independent mechanism

The level of insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 1 (IGFBP1), a liver-produced serum protein that regulates insulin-like growth factor-I bioactivity, glucose homeostasis, and tissue regeneration, increases during inflammation. This manuscript describes a novel pathway for the regulation of hepatic IGFBP1 mRNA and protein levels by interleukin (IL)-1β. Experiments with the luciferase reporter system show that IL-1β stimulates transcriptional activity from the 1-kb promoter region of IGFBP1. Although IL-1β stimulation suppresses the insulin activation of protein kinase B, the major upstream regulator of IGFBP1 mRNA transcription, the induction of IGFBP1 by IL-1β did not require an intact insulin response element. Furthermore, neither overexpression nor silencing of FoxO-1 had any effect on the IL-1β-induced increase in IGFBP1 mRNA levels and promoter activity. However, inhibition of the ERK MAP kinases effectively prevented the IL-1β effects. Inhibition of neutral sphingomyelinase, a key player in the IL-1β signaling cascade that acts upstream of ERK, also suppressed the IL-1β effects, while increasing the ceramide, through the addition of C2-ceramide or via treatment with exogenous sphingomyelinase, was sufficient to induce IGFBP1 promoter-driven luciferase activity. Studies in primary rat hepatocytes where the levels of neutral sphingomyelinase were either elevated or suppressed using adenoviral constructs affirmed the key role of neutral sphingomyelinase and ceramide (exerted likely through ERK activation) in the IL-1β-induced IGFBP1 production. Finally, the IL-1β effects on IGFBP1 mRNA production and protein secretion could be abolished by the addition of insulin, either at very late time points or at very high doses.

IGF-Binding Proteins in Type-1 Diabetes Are More Severely Altered in the Presence of Complications

AIMS

Reduced levels of free and total insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-I) have been observed in type-1 diabetes (T1D) patients. The bioavailability of IGF-I from the circulation to the target cells is controlled by multifunctional IGF-binding proteins (IGFBPs). The aim of this study was to profile serum IGFBPs in T1D and its complications.

DESIGN

We measured the IGFBP levels in 3662 patient serum samples from our ongoing Phenome and Genome of Diabetes Autoimmunity (PAGODA) study. IGFBP levels of four different groups of T1D patients (with 0, 1, 2, and ≥3 complications) were compared with healthy controls.

RESULTS

Three serum IGFBPs (IGFBP-1, -2, and -6) are significantly higher in T1D patients, and these alterations are greater in the presence of diabetic complications. IGFBP-3 is lower in patients with diabetic complications. Analyses using quintiles revealed that risk of T1D complications increases with increasing concentrations of IGFBP-2 (fifth quintile ORs: 18-60, p < 10(-26)), IGFBP-1 (fifth quintile ORs: 8-20, p < 10(-15)), and IGFBP-6 (fifth quintile ORs: 3-148, p < 10(-3)). IGFBP-3 has a negative association with T1D complications (fifth quintile ORs: 0.12-0.25, p < 10(-5)).

CONCLUSION

We found that elevated serum levels of IGFBP-1, -2, and -6 were associated with T1D, and its complications and IGFBP-3 level was found to be decreased in T1D with complications. Given the known role of these IGFBPs, the overall impact of these alterations suggests a negative effect on IGF signaling.

Research Advances in Tissue Engineering Materials for Sustained Release of Growth Factors

Growth factors are a class of cytokines that stimulate cell growth and are widely used in clinical practice, such as wound healing, revascularization, bone repair, and nervous system disease. However, free growth factors have a short half-life and are instable in vivo. Therefore, the search of excellent carriers to enhance sustained release of growth factors in vivo has become an area of intense research interest. The development of controlled-release systems that protect the recombinant growth factors from enzymatic degradation and provide sustained delivery at the injury site during healing should enhance the growth factor's application in tissue regeneration. Thus, this study reviews current research on commonly used carriers for sustained release of growth factors and their sustained release effects for preservation of their bioactivity and their accomplishment in tissue engineering approaches.