Unveiling cell subpopulations in T1D mouse islets using single-cell RNA sequencing

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease characterized by the destruction of β cells by immune cells. The interactions among cells within the islets may be closely linked to the pathogenesis of T1D. In this study, we utilized single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) to analyze the cellular heterogeneity within the islets of a T1D mouse model. We established a T1D mouse model induced by streptozotocin and identified cell subpopulations using scRNA-seq technology. Our results revealed 11 major cell types in the pancreatic islets of T1D mice, with heterogeneity observed in the alpha and beta cell subgroups, which may play a crucial role in the progression of T1D. Flow cytometry further confirmed a mature alpha and beta cell reduction in T1D mice. Overall, our scRNA-seq analysis provided insights into the cellular heterogeneity of T1D islet tissue and highlighted the potential importance of alpha and beta cells in developing T1D. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Created a comprehensive single-cell atlas of pancreatic islets in a T1D mouse model using scRNA-seq. Identified 11 major cell types in the islets, highlighting the role of alpha and beta cells in T1D. Revealed significant reduction in maturity alpha and beta cells in T1D mice through flow cytometry. Demonstrated the heterogeneity of alpha and beta cells, potentially crucial for T1D progression. Provided new insights for understanding and treating T1D by studying cell subtype changes and functions.

STS ⅡA inhibited angiogenesis of lung adenocarcinoma by activating FOXO3 to inhibit CXCL1/STAT3/VEGF pathway

BACKGROUND

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is the most popular type of lung cancer. Sulfotanshinone IIA sodium (STS IIA) has been proven to have an anticancer effect. However, its role in LUAD and its underlying mechanism remain unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the role and mechanism of STS IIA in LUAD angiogenesis.

METHODS

The mRNA levels of genes, including forkhead box O3 (FOXO3) and chemokine C-X-C motif ligand 1 (CXCL1), were detected by qRT-PCR. The levels of proteins, including FOXO3, CXCL1, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), were measured by Western blot. The proliferation and angiogenesis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were detected by the EdU assay and the tubule formation assay, respectively. The binding relationship between FOXO3 and CXCL1 was detected by dual-luciferase reporter assay.

RESULTS

Our results illustrated that different concentrations of STS IIA inhibited the proliferation and angiogenesis of HUVECs. FOXO3 regulated the proliferation and angiogenesis of HUVECs inhibited by STS ⅡA via targeting CXCL1. Subsequently, we proved that exogenous CXCL1 alleviated the inhibition of proliferation and angiogenesis of HUVECs regulated by STS IIA via activating the STAT3/VEGF pathway. Finally, we found that STS IIA inhibited the angiogenesis of lung adenocarcinoma though FOXO3 to inhibit the CXCL1/STAT3/VEGF pathway.

CONCLUSION

Our study finally elucidated the underlying molecular mechanism by which STS ⅡA inhibits LUAD angiogenesis.

Cancer-associated fibroblasts promote stemness maintenance and gemcitabine resistance via HIF-1α/miR-21 axis under hypoxic conditions in pancreatic cancer

Gemcitabine (GEM) resistance affects chemotherapy efficacy of pancreatic cancer (PC). Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) possess the ability of regulating chemoresistance. This study probed the mechanism of hypoxia-treated CAFs regulating cell stemness and GEM resistance in PC. Miapaca-2/SW1990 were co-cultured with PC-derived CAFs under normoxic/hypoxic conditions. Cell viability/self-renewal ability was determined by MTT/sphere formation assays, respectively. Protein levels of CD44, CD133, Oct4, and Sox2 were determined by western blot. GEM tumoricidal assay was performed. PC cell GEM resistance was evaluated by MTT assay. CAFs were cultured at normoxia/hypoxia. HIF-1α and miR-21 expression levels were assessed by RT-qPCR and western blot, with their binding sites and binding relationship predicted and verified. CAF-extracellular vesicles (EVs) were incubated with Miapaca-2 cells. The RAS/AKT/ERK pathway activation was detected by western blot. PC xenograft models were established and treated with hypoxic CAF-EVs and GEM. CAFs and PC cell co-culture increased cell stemness maintenance, GEM resistance, cell viability, stem cell sphere number, and protein levels of CD44, CD133, Oct4, and Sox2, and weakened GEM tumoricidal ability to PC cells, with the effects further enhanced by hypoxia. Hypoxia induced HIF-1α and miR-21 overexpression in CAFs. Hypoxia promoted CAFs to secrete high-level miR-21 EVs via the HIF-1α/miR-21 axis, and activated the miR-21/RAS/AKT/ERK pathway. CAF-EVs promoted GEM resistance in PC via the miR-21/RAS/ATK/ERK pathway in vivo. Hypoxia promoted CAFs to secrete high-level miR-21 EVs through the HIF-1α/miR-21 axis, and activated the miR-21/RAS/AKT/ERK pathway via EVs to trigger stemness maintenance and GEM resistance in PC.

LncRNA MIR210HG promotes the proliferation, migration, and invasion of lung cancer cells by inhibiting the transcription of SH3GL3

Lung cancer (LCa), the most frequent malignancy worldwide, causes millions of mortalities each year. Overexpression of the long noncoding RNA MIR210HG in LCa has been established; however, a more comprehensive investigation into its biological role within LCa is imperative. This study aimed to validate the MIR210H levels in LCa tissues and cells. The expression of indicated genes was evaluated using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and/or Western blotting. The viability, proliferation, migration, and invasion of LCa cells were measured using the 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT), colony formation, wound healing, and transwell assays, respectively. The methylation levels of LCa cells were determined via methylation-specific PCR; additionally, chromatin immunoprecipitation or RNA immunoprecipitation assays were performed to determine the targeting relationship between DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) and the SH3-domain containing CRB2 like 3 (SH3GL3) promoters and the interaction between DNMT1 and MIR210HG, respectively. Our findings revealed the upregulation of MIR210HG, coupled with a diminished expression of SH3GL3 in LCa tissues and cells. Knockdown of MIR210HG or overexpression of SH3GL3 suppressed the proliferative, migratory, and invasive capacities of the cells. DNMT1 bound to the SH3GL3 promoter region, and MIR210HG inhibited the transcription of SH3GL3 by recruiting DNMT1. These findings indicate that MIR210HG facilitates LCa cell growth and metastasis by repressing SH3GL3 transcription via the recruitment of DNMT1 to the SH3GL3 promoter region.

Sodium tanshinone IIA sulphate inhibits angiogenesis in lung adenocarcinoma via mediation of miR-874/eEF-2K/TG2 axis

CONTEXT

Sodium tanshinone IIA sulphate (STS) is a product originated from Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge [Lamiaceae], which exerts an antitumour effect. However, the role of STS on lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) remains unexplored.

OBJECTIVE

Our study explores the effect and mechanism of STS against LUAD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

LUAD cells were treated with 100 μM STS for 24 h and control group cells were cultured under normal medium conditions. Functionally, the viability, migration, invasion and angiogenesis of LUAD cells were examined by MTT, wound healing, transwell and tube formation assay, respectively. Moreover, cells were transvected with different transfection plasmids. Dual luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays were used to verify the relationship between miR-874 and eEF-2K.

RESULTS

STS significantly decreased the viability (40-50% reduction), migration (migration rate of A549 cells from 0.67 to 0.28, H1299 cells from 0.71 to 0.41), invasion (invasion numbers of A549 cells from 172 to 55, H1299 cells from 188 to 35) and angiogenesis (80-90% reduction) of LUAD cells. Downregulation of miR-874 partially abolished the antitumour effect of STS. EEF-2K was identified to be the target of miR-874, and its downregulation markedly abolished the effects of miR-874 downregulation on tumourigenesis of LUAD. Moreover, silencing of TG2 abrogated eEF-2K-induced progression of LUAD.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

STS attenuated the tumourigenesis of LUAD through the mediation of the miR-874/eEF-2K/TG2 axis. STS is a promising drug to fight against lung cancer, which might effectively reverse drug resistance when combined with classical anticancer drugs.

Dihydroquercetin (DHQ) ameliorates LPS-induced acute lung injury by regulating macrophage M2 polarization through IRF4/miR-132-3p/FBXW7 axis

BACKGROUND

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a common complication of sepsis. Dihydroquercetin (DHQ) has been found to attenuate lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation. However, the effect of DHQ on LPS-challenged ALI remains unclear.

METHODS

Pulmonary HE and TUNEL staining and lung wet/dry ratio were detected in LPS-treated Balb/c mice. IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α levels were determined utilizing ELISA assay. RAW264.7 cell apoptosis and macrophage markers (CD86, CD206) were tested using flow cytometry. TC-1 viability was analyzed by MTT assay. Western blot measured protein expression of macrophage markers. Interactions of miR-132-3p, IRF4 and FBXW7 were explored utilizing ChIP, RNA pull-down and dual luciferase reporter assays.

RESULTS

DHQ alleviated histopathological change, pulmonary edema and apoptosis in LPS-treated mice. DHQ affected LPS-induced M2 macrophage polarization and TC-1 cell injury-related indicators, such as decreased cell activity, decreased LDH levels, and increased apoptosis. LPS inhibited IRF4 and miR-132-3p expression, activated Notch pathway and increased FBXW7 level, which were overturned by DHQ. IRF4 transcriptionally activated miR-132-3p expression. FBXW7 was a downstream target of miR-132-3p.

CONCLUSION

DHQ alleviated LPS-induced lung injury through promoting macrophage M2 polarization via IRF4/miR-132-3p/FBXW7 axis, which provides a new therapeutic strategy for ALI.

Iodine status and its association with prevalence of thyroid diseases in adults from Jiangxi Province, China

BACKGROUND

Iodine is an essential element for the biosynthesis of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). Both excessive and deficient iodine are major risk factors for thyroid diseases, including thyroid dysfunction, thyroid nodules, and thyroid autoimmunity (TAI). This study aimed to elucidate the relationship between iodine status and the prevalence of thyroid diseases through a national cross-sectional epidemiological survey in Jiangxi province (China).

METHODS

This population-based, cross-sectional study enrolled 2636 Chinese local inhabitants who aged over 18 years old from April to August in 2015. Physical examination was performed and biochemical indices, urinary iodine concentration (UIC), and TSH level were measured. The Chi-square test, nonparametric test, and 4 multivariate logistic regression models adjusted for risk factors were applied to analysis. Spearman correlation coefficients were calculated to investigate the relationship between iodine intake level and the prevalence of thyroid diseases.

RESULTS

The median UIC was 176.4 μg/L, and a significant difference was found in median UIC between men (182.45 μg/L) and women (169.25 μg/L) (P = 0.03). Among these study subjects, 14.4%, 44.5%, 26.1%, and 15.0% had deficient, adequate, more than adequate, and excessive iodine concentrations, respectively. The prevalence rates of hyperthyroidism, subclinical hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, subclinical hypothyroidism, thyroid nodules, and TAI were 0.91%, 0.57%, 0.34% and 7.89%, 9.45%, and 12.7%, respectively. Significant differences were found in iodine status, waist circumstance, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), total cholesterol (TC), TSH, thyroid nodules, and TAI between men and women (P < 0.05). Compared with those with adequate UIC, subjects with excessive UIC had higher prevalence rates of thyroid dysfunction (odds ratio (OR) = 1.74, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.40-2.54) and thyroid nodules (OR = 3.33, 95%CI 1.32-8.42). In addition, subjects with deficient and excessive UIC were at the higher risk of TAI compared with those with adequate UIC (OR = 1.68, 95%CI: 1.19-2.60; OR = 1.52, 95%CI: 1.04-2.96, respectively). UIC was positively correlated with the prevalence rates of thyroid nodules (r = -0.44, P < 0.01) and TAI (r = -0.055, P < 0.01). On the contrary, UIC was negatively correlated with the risk of thyroid dysfunction (r = -0.24, P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Adult inhabitants from Jiangxi province in the TIDE study were in the adequate iodine status. Excessive iodine status was noted as a risk factor for thyroid dysfunction and thyroid nodules. In addition, both iodine deficiency and excessive iodine were risk factors for TAI.

Quantitative law and scenario-based forecasting of different land use expansion, based on reliability analysis in mountainous areas

The continuous high-intensity and disorderly expansion of construction land in mountainous areas threatens city development; consequently, the scientific guidance of its sustainable development has become a research hotspot. This work aimed to develop a new theoretical framework for predicting land expansion. Based on DMSP/OLS-Landsat 7 data correction from 2000 to 2019, to ensure data reliability, this study quantitatively analysed the expansion law of land-use and land-cover (LULC) in Huayuan, a typical mountainous area in China. Based on the land expansion law, the patch-generating land use simulation (PLUS) model was used to predict various types of LULCs in different scenarios. The results showed that (1) the reliability of LULC under multi-source spatio-temporal data correction reached more than 0.97. (2) The expansion law of industrial and mining land, urban living land, and traffic land is sprawl, while rural living land is enclaved and the expansion direction and intensity are obviously different. (3) The scale of land expansion in the natural-oriented scenario was significantly higher than that in the humanism-oriented scenario, with a higher value of 199.33 hm2. This study expands the case study of land use analysis and prediction, and provides scientific guidance for different land expansion planning, which can avoid the mismatch and waste of land resources. Furthermore, it also deepens the exploration of LULC identification reliability method and enriches the theory of different land use prediction in mountainous areas.

Mechanism of immune escape mediated by receptor tyrosine kinase KIT in thyroid cancer

OBJECTIVE

Thyroid cancer (TC) is one of the fastest-growing malignant tumors. This study sought to explore the mechanism of immune escape mediated by receptor tyrosine kinase (KIT) in TC.

METHODS

The expression microarray of TC was acquired through the GEO database, and the difference analysis and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes pathway enrichment analysis were carried out. KIT levels in TC cell lines (K1/SW579/BCPAP) and human normal thyroid cells were detected using reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis. TC cells were transfected with overexpressed (oe)-KIT and CD8+ T cells were cocultured with SW579 cells. Subsequently, cell proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities, CD8+ T cell proliferation, cytokine levels (interferon-γ [IFN-γ]/tumor necrosis factor-α [TNF-α]) were determined using colony formation assay, Transwell assays, flow cytometry, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The phosphorylation of MAPK pathway-related protein (ERK) was measured by western blot analysis. After transfection with oe-KIT, cells were treated with anisomycin (an activator of the MAPK pathway), and the protein levels of p-ERK/ERK and programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) were detected.

RESULTS

Differentially expressed genes (N = 2472) were obtained from the GEO database. KIT was reduced in TC samples and lower in tumor cells than those in normal cells. Overexpression of KIT inhibited immune escape of TC cells. Specifically, the proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities of TC cells were lowered, the proliferation level of CD8+ T cells was elevated, and IFN-γ and TNF-α levels were increased. KIT inhibited the activation of the MAPK pathway in TC cells and downregulated PD-L1.

CONCLUSION

KIT suppressed immune escape of TC by blocking the activation of the MAPK pathway and downregulating PD-L1.

The role of mitochondrial fission in intervertebral disc degeneration

Low back pain (LBP) is an extremely common disorder and is a major cause of disability globally. Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is the main contributor to LBP. Nevertheless, the specific mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of IVDD remain unclear. Mitochondria are highly dynamic organelles that continuously undergo fusion and fission, known as mitochondrial dynamics. Accumulating evidence has revealed that aberrantly activated mitochondrial fission leads to mitochondrial fragmentation and dysfunction, which are involved in the development and progression of IVDD. To date, research into mitochondrial dynamics in IVDD is at an early stage. The present narrative review aims to summarize the most recent findings about the role of mitochondrial fission in the pathogenesis of IVDD.

Meta-Optics-Empowered Switchable Integrated Mode Converter Based on the Adjoint Method

Monolithic integrated mode converters with high integration are essential to photonic integrated circuits (PICs), and they are widely used in next-generation optical communications and complex quantum systems. It is expected that PICs will become more miniaturized, multifunctional, and intelligent with the development of micro/nano-technology. The increase in design space makes it difficult to realize high-performance device design based on traditional parameter sweeping or heuristic design, especially in the optimal design of reconfigurable PIC devices. Combining the mode coupling theory and adjoint calculation method, we proposed a design method for a switchable mode converter. The device could realize the transmission of TE0 mode and the conversion from TE0 to TE1 mode with a footprint of 0.9 × 7.5 μm² based on the phase change materials (PCMs). We also found that the mode purity could reach 78.2% in both states at the working wavelength of 1.55 μm. The designed method will provide a new impetus for programmable photonic integrated devices and find broad application prospects in communication, optical neural networks, and sensing.

Efficacy and safety of closed-loop insulin delivery versus sensor-augmented pump in the treatment of adults with type 1 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized-controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Controversy remains regarding whether closed-loop (CL) insulin delivery or insulin sensor-augmented pump (SAP) delivery is more efficient for clinical treatment. Therefore, we aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of CL insulin delivery systems versus insulin SAP delivery for adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

METHODS

Embase, Ovid MEDLINE, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, the Cochrane Library, and other databases were searched for related articles, and we analyzed the average blood glucose (BG), time in range (TIR), and adverse effects (AEs) as primary endpoints to evaluate efficacy and safety.

RESULTS

Of 1616 articles, 12 randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) were included in the final analysis. Regarding BG control efficacy, CL insulin delivery resulted better outcomes than SAP therapy with regard to the average BG value, which was detected and recorded by continuous glucose monitoring (mean difference [MD][mmol/L]:  - 0.25 95% confidence interval [CI]  - 0.42 to - 0.08, p = 0.003); TIR 3.9-10 mmol/L (MD [%]: 7.91 95% CI 4.45-11.37, p < 0.00001). Similar results were observed for the secondary outcomes including low blood glucose index (LBGI) (MD:  - 0.41 95% CI - 0.55 to - 0.26, p < 0.00001), high blood glucose index (HBGI) (MD:  - 2.56 95% CI - 3.38 to - 1.74, p < 0.00001), and standard deviation (SD) of glucose variability (MD [mmol/L]: -0.25 95% CI - 0.44 to - 0.06, p = 0.01). Furthermore, SAP therapy was associated with more adverse effects (risk ratio: 0.20 95% CI 0.07-0.52, p = 0.001) than CL insulin delivery, and one of the most common adverse effects was hypoglycemia.

CONCLUSIONS

CL insulin delivery appears to be a better treatment method than SAP therapy for adults with T1D because of its increased BG control efficacy and decreased number of hypoglycemic events.

Vitamin D supplementation induces CatG-mediated CD4+ T cell inactivation and restores pancreatic β-cell function in mice with type 1 diabetes

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a chronic autoimmune disease accompanied by the immune-mediated destruction of pancreatic β-cells. In this study, we aimed to explore the regulatory effects of vitamin D (VD) supplementation on pancreatic β-cell function by altering the expression of bioinformatically identified cathepsin G (CatG) in T1D mice. A T1D mouse model was established in nonobese diabetic (NOD) mice, and their islets were isolated and purified. Pancreatic mononuclear cells (MNCs) were collected, from which CD4⁺ T cells were isolated. The levels of interleukin (IL)-2, IL-10, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) in the supernatant of mouse pancreatic tissue homogenate were assessed using ELISA. Immunohistochemistry and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick-end labelin (TUNEL) staining were conducted to evaluate the effects of VD supplementation on pancreatic tissues of T1D mice. The pancreatic β-cell line MIN6 was used for in vitro substantiation of findings in vivo. VD supplementation reduced glucose levels and improved glucose tolerance in T1D mice. Furthermore, VD supplementation improved pancreatic β-cell function and suppressed immunological and inflammatory reactions in the T1D mice. We documented overexpression of CatG in diabetes tissue samples, and then showed that VD supplementation normalized the islet immune microenvironment through downregulating CatG expression in T1D mice. Experiments in vitro subsequently demonstrated that VD supplementation impeded CD4⁺ T activation by downregulating CatG expression and thereby enhanced pancreatic β-cell function. Results of the present study elucidated that VD supplementation can downregulate the expression of CatG and inhibit CD4⁺ T cell activation, thereby improving β-cell function in T1D.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We report that vitamin D (VD) supplementation downregulates CatG expression and inhibits CD4⁺ T cell activation, thereby improving β-cell function in type 1 diabetes (T1D). This study deepens our understanding of the pathogenesis of T1D and clarifies molecular events underlying the alleviatory effect of VD for immunotherapy against T1D.

Mechanisms and therapeutic strategies of immune checkpoint molecules and regulators in type 1 diabetes

BACKGROUND

Considered a significant risk to health and survival, type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a heterogeneous autoimmune disease characterized by hyperglycemia caused by an absolute deficiency of insulin, which is mainly due to the immune-mediated destruction of pancreatic beta cells.

SCOPE OF REVIEW

In recent years, the role of immune checkpoints in the treatment of cancer has been increasingly recognized, but unfortunately, little attention has been paid to the significant role they play both in the development of secondary diabetes with immune checkpoint inhibitors and the treatment of T1D, such as cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4(CTLA-4), programmed cell death protein-1(PD-1), lymphocyte activation gene-3(LAG-3), programmed death ligand-1(PD-L1), and T-cell immunoglobulin mucin protein-3(TIM-3). Here, this review summarizes recent research on the role and mechanisms of diverse immune checkpoint molecules in mediating the development of T1D and their potential and theoretical basis for the prevention and treatment of diabetes.

MAJOR CONCLUSIONS

Immune checkpoint inhibitors related diabetes, similar to T1D, are severe endocrine toxicity induced with immune checkpoint inhibitors. Interestingly, numerous treatment measures show excellent efficacy for T1D via regulating diverse immune checkpoint molecules, including co-inhibitory and co-stimulatory molecules. Thus, targeting immune checkpoint molecules may exhibit potential for T1D treatment and improve clinical outcomes.

Efficacy and safety of empagliflozin at different doses in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A network meta-analysis based on randomized controlled trials

WHAT IS KNOWN AND OBJECTIVE

As an oral hypoglycaemic drug that significantly reduces cardiovascular risk, empagliflozin is often used in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, the dosage and administration of empagliflozin are still controversial clinically. To determine the most appropriate dose, we performed this network meta-analysis.

METHODS

We identified randomized controlled trials (RCTs) about empagliflozin from eight databases. We analysed the pharmacodynamics, adverse effects (AEs), and pharmacokinetics of empagliflozin at different doses.

RESULTS

We identified 8264 articles, of which 23 RCTs with 10518 patients were included. Regarding haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and fasting plasma glucose (FPG), high-daily doses (10, 25, 50 mg) were significantly better than low doses (1, 2.5, 5 mg). For total AEs, there was a dose-response trend in which safety decreased with increasing doses. According to SUCRA sequencing, the order for lowering HbA1c was 25 > 50 > 10 > 5 > 1 mg, for lowering FPG was 50 > 25 > 10 > 5 > 2.5 > 1 mg and for safety was 1> 5 > 10 > 25> 2.5 > 50 mg. When considering HbA1c, FPG and total AEs, we performed a hierarchical cluster analysis and network meta-analysis to find that 25 mg performed best among different doses, which was more significant after long-term use (≥ 12 weeks). Pharmacokinetic parameters exhibited significant dose-response relationships.

WHAT IS NEW AND CONCLUSION

High-daily doses (10, 25, 50 mg) had better efficacy than low doses (1, 2.5, 5 mg). When considering HbA1c, FPG and total AEs, 25 mg performed best among the different doses in patients with T2DM.

Exosomes from mesenchymal stem cells expressing microribonucleic acid-125b inhibit the progression of diabetic nephropathy via the tumour necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6/Akt axis

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) seriously threatens the health of patients with diabetes. Moreover, it has been reported that mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-derived exosomal miRNAs can modulate the progression of multiple diseases, including DN. It has been suggested that miR-125b is involved in DN. However, the biological functions of exosomal miRNAs, especially miR-125b, in DN are still unclear. To establish a DN model in vitro, we used a model of human embryonic kidney epithelial cells (HKCs) injury induced by high glucose (HG). Then, miR-125b was delivered to the model cells in vitro via MSC-derived exosomes (MSC-Exos), and the effect of exosomal miR-125b on HKCs apoptosis was evaluated by flow cytometry. qRT-PCR or western blotting was performed to measure miR-125b or tumour necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6) expression in HKC. The effect of MSC-Exos on HKCs apoptosis after miR-125b knockdown was determined by flow cytometry. Moreover, dual-luciferase reporter assays were used to determine the targeting relationship between miR-125b and TRAF6 in HKCs. Our data revealed that MSC-Exos increased HG-induced autophagy in HKCs and reversed HKCs apoptosis. Moreover, our study found that miR-125b was enriched in MSC-Exos and directly targeted TRAF6 in HKCs. In addition, exosomally transferred miR-125b inhibited the apoptosis of HG-treated HKCs by mediating Akt signalling. In summary, MSC-derived exosomal miR-125b induced autophagy and inhibited apoptosis in HG-treated HKCs via the downregulation of TRAF6. Therefore, our study provided a new idea for DN treatment.

Effects of pre-oxidation on residual dissolved aluminum in coagulated water: A pilot-scale study

Residual dissolved aluminum (Al) in drinking water is becoming a serious concern due to its high potential risks to human health. However, the mechanism by which residual dissolved Al forms is yet to be elucidated in detail. In this study, the effects of pre-oxidation by ozonation and chlorination on the properties of dissolved organic matter (DOM) and residual Al concentrations remaining in solution after coagulation were explored in a pilot-scale test. Changes in the DOM properties caused by the water treatment process were characterized by ultraviolet-visible absorbance spectroscopy. Theprotonation-active sites, carboxylic- and phenolic-type groupsof DOM were quantified by spectral parameter DlnA400 (differential log-transformed spectra at wavelength 400 nm) in combination with the revised non-ideal competitive adsorption model. The results show that ozonation and chlorination significantly affect the properties of DOM and the amount of residual dissolved Al in coagulated drinking water. This effect was associated with the changes in the carboxylic- and phenolic-type groups in DOM. Results of the study show that residual dissolved Al in coagulated water can be controlled by affecting theAl binding sites in DOM by pre-oxidation before coagulation. The nature of pre-oxidation agent and its dosage should be selected depending on the quality of the raw water to be treated. Ozonation was concluded to be preferable pre-oxidation agent for the water in examined this study.

Genome-Wide Association Analysis of Neonatal White Matter Microstructure

A better understanding of genetic influences on early white matter development could significantly advance our understanding of neurological and psychiatric conditions characterized by altered integrity of axonal pathways. We conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) phenotypes in 471 neonates. We used a hierarchical functional principal regression model (HFPRM) to perform joint analysis of 44 fiber bundles. HFPRM revealed a latent measure of white matter microstructure that explained approximately 50% of variation in our tractography-based measures and accounted for a large proportion of heritable variation in each individual bundle. An intronic SNP in PSMF1 on chromosome 20 exceeded the conventional GWAS threshold of 5 x 10-8 (p = 4.61 x 10-8). Additional loci nearing genome-wide significance were located near genes with known roles in axon growth and guidance, fasciculation, and myelination.

Association of magnesium intake with type 2 diabetes and total stroke: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

The detailed associations between type 2 diabetes (T2D) and total stroke and magnesium intake as well as the dose-response trend should be updated in a timely manner.

DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analyses.

DATA SOURCES

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science and ClinicalTrials.gov were rigorously searched from inception to 15 March 2019.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Prospective cohort studies investigating these two diseases were included.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Relative risk (RR) and 95% CI in random effects models as well as absolute risk (AR) were pooled to calculate the risk of T2D and stroke. Methodological quality was assessed by the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.

RESULTS

Forty-one studies involving 53 cohorts were included. The magnitude of the risk was significantly reduced by 22% for T2D (RR 0.78 (95% CI 0.75 to 0.81); p<0.001; AR reduction 0.120%), 11% for total stroke (RR 0.89 (95% CI 0.83 to 0.94); p<0.001; AR reduction 0.281%) and 12% for ischaemic stroke (RR 0.88 (95% CI 0.81 to 0.95); p=0.001; AR reduction 0.246%) when comparing the highest magnesium intake to the lowest. The inverse association still existed when studies on T2D were adjusted for cereal fibre (RR 0.79; p<0.001) and those on total stroke were adjusted for calcium (RR 0.89; p=0.040). Subgroup analyses suggested that the risk for total and ischaemic stroke was significantly decreased in females, participants with ≥25 mg/m² body mass index and those with ≥12-year follow-up; the reduced risk in Asians was not as notable as that in North American and European populations.

CONCLUSIONS

Magnesium intake has significantly inverse associations with T2D and total stroke in a dose-dependent manner. Feasible magnesium-rich dietary patterns may be highly beneficial for specific populations and could be highlighted in the primary T2D and total stroke prevention strategies disseminated to the public.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42018092690.

Association of magnesium consumption with type 2 diabetes and glucose metabolism: A systematic review and pooled study with trial sequential analysis

Prevention of type 2 diabetes (T2D) with diet or diet supplementation is challenging. This article aims to draw conclusive associations between magnesium intake and T2D incidence and evaluate the effect of magnesium supplementation on glucose metabolism. Databases were searched for related articles from inception to May 15, 2019. Prospective cohort studies investigating the relevant relationship as well as randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effect of magnesium supplementation were eligible. We conducted trial sequential analysis (TSA) to prove the sufficiency of the current evidence. Twenty-six publications involving 35 cohorts were included in the analysis. Compared to the lowest magnesium intake, the highest level was associated with a 22% lower risk for T2D; the risk was reduced by 6% for each 100 mg increment in daily magnesium intake. Additional analysis of 26 RCTs (1168 participants) was performed, revealing that magnesium supplementation significantly reduced the fasting plasma glucose (FPG) level (SMD, -0.32 [95% CI, -0.59 to -0.05], 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test (2-h OGTT) result (SMD, -0.30 [-0.58 to -0.02]), fasting insulin level (SMD, -0.17 [-0.30 to -0.04]), homeostatic model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) score (SMD, -0.41 [-0.71 to -0.11]), triglyceride (TG) level, systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP). TSA showed an inverse association, with most benefits of magnesium supplementation on glucose metabolism being stable. In conclusion, magnesium intake has an inverse dose-response association with T2D incidence, and supplementation appears to be advisable in terms of glucose parameters in T2D/high-risk individuals.

In-situ characterization of dissolved organic matter removal by coagulation using differential UV-Visible absorbance spectroscopy

Removing dissolved organic matter (DOM) is of great concern due to its adverse effects on water supplies. Great effort has been given to studying DOM removal by coagulation, while the mechanism of DOM removal and the changes in its properties during coagulation have not been clearly illustrated due to the limitations of detection methods under practical environmental conditions. In this paper, the changes in DOM during coagulation were quantified using differential UV-Visible absorbance spectroscopy, and the differential spectra of DOM in the wavelength range of 200-600 nm could be deconvoluted into six Gaussian bands with maxima at approximately 200, 240, 276, 316, 385, and 457 nm after coagulation, respectively. The intensity of these maxima decreased with the type and dosage of coagulants. These observations should reflect the difference in the removability of DOM by coagulation, and this perspective was further confirmed by examining the deprotonation-protonation properties of DOM before and after coagulation. The affinity sites of DOM in coagulated waters, quantified by spectra parameter DlnA₄₀₀ (differential log-transformed spectra at wavelength 400 nm) in combination with the revised NICA model, increased as the coagulant dosage, which indicates that coagulation is inclined to remove the DOM fraction with fewer functional groups. Polyaluminum chloride (PAC) and Al-aggregate (Al₁₃) were more efficient than Alum for removing DOM due to their high efficiency for removing DOM fractions with fewer functional groups. The residual dissolved Al concentration depended on the total amount of reactive binding sites in DOM, and there was a strong linear correlation between residual dissolved Al and the total amount of reactive binding sites in DOM for Alum, while a weaker correlation was presented for PAC and Al₁₃. This indicates that Al_a was the dominant species to bind with the affinity sites in DOM to form residual dissolved Al.

ADAMTS-1 inhibits angiogenesis via the PI3K/Akt-eNOS-VEGF pathway in lung cancer cells

BACKGROUND

ADAMTS-1 (a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin repeats-1) is a recently characterized protein containing a metalloproteinase domain, a disintegrin-like domain and a thrombospondin type 1 motif, which is involved in angiogenesis. However, the roles of ADAMTS-1 in angiogenesis of lung cancer (LC) remain unclear.

METHODS

The mRNA expression of ADAMTS-1 and VEGF was examined by qRT-PCR. Western blots were used to detect the protein expression of ADAMTS-1 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in A549 cells and to analyse the cellular effect of a PI3K/Akt activator and an endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) activator. ADAMTS-1 and VEGF contents in cell culture supernatants were measured by ELISA. Cell viability, cell cycle, migration, and angiogenesis of HUVECs were evaluated by MTT assay, flow cytometry, scratch assay and tube formation assay, respectively.

RESULTS

Our data revealed that the expression of ADAMTS-1 was downregulated, while the expression of VEGF was upregulated in A549 cells. Decreased ADAMTS-1 content was also detected in A549 cell culture supernatant. Overexpression of ADAMTS-1 inhibited VEGF expression and A549 cell proliferation. Moreover, ADAMTS-1 overexpression repressed proliferation, migration and angiogenesis of HUVECs. Mechanistically, ADAMTS-1 suppressed the expression of VEGF in HUVECs by inhibiting PI3K/Akt-eNOS, while a PI3K activator and an eNOS activator each partly reversed the expression of VEGF. In addition, activation of the PI3K/Akt pathway or VEGF overexpression reversed the inhibitory effect of ADAMTS-1 overexpression on HUVECs angiogenesis.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicated that ADAMTS-1 inhibited angiogenesis of LC cells via regulation of the PI3K/Akt-eNOS/VEGF axis, which shed light on LC pathogenesis and provided potential targets for LC therapy.

Sophocarpine Suppresses NF-κB-Mediated Inflammation Both In Vitro and In Vivo and Inhibits Diabetic Cardiomyopathy

Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a leading cause of mortality in patients with diabetes. DCM is a leading cause of mortality in patients with diabetes. We used both in vitro and in vivo experiments to investigate the hypothesis that sophocarpine (SPC), a natural quinolizidine alkaloid derived from a Chinese herb, could protect against DCM. We used hyperglycemic myocardial cells and a streptozotocin (STZ)-induced type 1 diabetes mellitus mouse model. SPC protected myocardial cells from hyperglycemia-induced injury by improving mitochondrial function, suppressing inflammation, and inhibiting cardiac apoptosis. The SPC treatment significantly inhibited the activation of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) signaling in high-glucose-stimulated inflammatory responses. Moreover, SPC significantly slowed the development and progression of DCM in STZ-induced diabetic mice. These results show that SPC suppresses NF-κB-mediated inflammation both in vitro and in vivo and may be used to treat DCM.

Chewing lice from high-altitude and migrating birds in Yunnan, China, with descriptions of two new species of Guimaraesiella

In total, 366 birds representing 55 species in 24 families and eight orders, were examined for chewing lice (Phthiraptera: Amblycera, Ischnocera) in two high-altitude localities in Yunnan Province, China. In Ailaoshan, almost all of the birds examined were resident passeriforms, of which 36% were parasitized by chewing lice. In Jinshanyakou, most birds were on migration, and included both passerine and non-passerine birds. Of the passerine birds caught in Jinshanyakou, only one bird (0.7%) was parasitized by chewing lice. The prevalence of Myrsidea and Brueelia-complex lice on birds caught in Ailaoshan was higher than in previous reports. Of the chewing lice identifiable to species level, three represent new records for China: Actornithophilus hoplopteri (Mjöberg, 1910), Maculinirmus ljosalfar Gustafsson & Bush, 2017 and Quadraceps sinensis Timmermann, 1954. In total, 17 new host records are included, of which we describe two as new species in the Brueelia-complex: Guimaraesiella (Cicchinella) ailaoshanensis sp. nov. ex Schoeniparus dubius dubius (Hume, 1874) and G. (C.) montisodalis sp. nov. ex Fulvetta manipurensis tonkinensis Delacour & Jabouille, 1930. This published work has been registered in ZooBank, http://zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:9FC3D8EE-2CED-4DBE-A1DB-471B71260D27.

A cluster of CYP6 gene family associated with the major quantitative trait locus is responsible for the pyrethroid resistance in Culex pipiens pallen

The emergence and rapid spread of insecticide resistance in several mosquito species has become a significant obstacle in management of mosquito-borne diseases, including deltamethrin resistance in Culex pipiens pallens. Previous study identified a major deltamethrin resistance quantitative trait locus (DR-6) that alone explained 62% of the genetic variance. In this study, the marker L4B1.102 and L4B1.175 associated with the DR-6 were characterized. We searched for potential candidate genes in the flank region of two markers in the genome sequence and showed that a cluster of CYP6 cytochrome P450 genes (CYP6BB4, CYP6BB3, CYP6CC2, CYP6P14, CYP6BZ2, CYP6AA9, CYP6AA8, CYP6AA7) was in the vicinity of DR-6. Significant differences in the expression of these P450s in the larval and adult stages were identified in the resistant strains compared with the susceptible strain. For CYP6AA9 and CYP6BB4, the correlation analysis showed a highly positive correlation between relative gene expression quantification and the resistance level in different strains. Knockdown of CYP6BB4 increased the sensitivity of mosquitoes to deltamethrin. We identified that the deltamethrin resistance was in a cluster of CYP6 genes in C. pipiens pallens, and CYP6BB4 may play a significant role in the development of deltamethrin resistance.

Humidity Sensor Based on a Long-Period Fiber Grating Coated with Polymer Composite Film

We demonstrate a simple and highly sensitive optical fiber relative humidity (RH) sensor based on a long-period fiber grating (LPFG) coated with polyethylene glycol (PEG)/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) composite films. The resonance wavelength of the LPFG is sensitive to environmental humidity due to the change in effective refractive index caused by the strong surface absorption and desorption of the porous PEG/PVA coatings. The sensor is sensitive in a wide range from 50% to 95% RH, with a highest sensitivity of 2.485 nm/%RH in the range 50–75% RH. The proposed RH sensor has the advantages of compact size, good reversibility, and stability, which makes it attractive for high-humidity environments.

Protective effects and active ingredients of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge extracts on airway responsiveness, inflammation and remodeling in mice with ovalbumin-induced allergic asthma

BACKGROUND

Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (S. miltiorrhiza), a traditional Chinese medicine, has demonstrated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial activities. However, its effects against asthma that shows chronic inflammation and oxidative damage remain unknown.

PURPOSE

To assess the effects of S. miltiorrhiza extracts on airway responsiveness, inflammation, and remodeling in ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthmatic mice.

METHODS

Mice with ovalbumin (OVA)-induced allergic asthma were treated with S. miltiorrhiza extracts, and airway resistance (R_L) to methacholine, inflammatory cell infiltration, Th1/Th2 cytokine levels, and airway remodeling were assessed. TGF-β1-induced BEAS-2B and MRC-5 cells were used to evaluate the effects of five S. miltiorrhiza compounds on epithelial-mesenchymal transition and fibrosis.

RESULTS

OVA-challenge resulted in remarkably increased R_L, inflammatory cell infiltration, Th1/Th2 cytokine levels in BALF, goblet cell hyperplasia, collagen deposition, and airway wall thickening. Daily treatment with S. miltiorrhiza ethanolic (EE, 246 mg/kg) or water (WE, 156 mg/kg) extract significantly reduced OVA-induced airway inflammatory cell infiltration, Th1/Th2 cytokine amounts, and goblet cells hyperplasia. However, only WE remarkably decreased R_L, collagen deposition, and airway wall thickening. Moreover, Chromatography showed that salvianic acid A and caffeic acid levels were much higher in WE than EE, while rosmarinic acid was slightly lower; salvianolic acid B and tanshinone IIA levels were much higher in EE than WE. Interestingly, caffeic acid and rosmarinic acid were more potent in reducing E-cadherin and vimentin levels in TGF-β1-induced BEAS-2B cells, and α-SMA and COL1A1 amounts in TGF-β1-induced MRC-5 cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Both S. miltiorrhiza WE and EE alleviate airway inflammation in mice with OVA-sensitized allergic asthma. S. miltiorrhiza WE is more potent in reducing responsiveness and airway remodeling.

CO2 laser-written long-period fiber grating with a high diffractive order cladding mode near the turning point

We demonstrate the fabrication of a long-period fiber grating (LPFG) in a boron-doped single-mode fiber with a high-diffractive-order cladding mode (HDCM) near the turning point (TP). The simulations show that an LPFG with less than 0.2 duty cycles can couple light to the HDCM. An LPFG with a period of more than 400 μm can achieve strong mode coupling between the fundamental mode and the HDCM near the TP. The effect of the external refractive index on the transmission spectrum of a LPFG with different grating periods is investigated by simulations and experiments. With an increase in grating period, the spectral dip corresponding to the HDCM travels faster than the conventional dip, and overlapped dips appear in the transmission spectrum. High sensitivities of up to 13,497.7  nm/RIU and 0.77  nm/°C of, respectively, RI and temperature sensing can be achieved. Such LPFGs could be potentially used as optical filters and high-sensitivity sensors.

Appropriate dose of Lactobacillus buchneri supplement improves intestinal microbiota and prevents diarrhoea in weaning Rex rabbits

This study examined the effects on intestinal microbiota and diarrhoea of Lactobacillus buchneri supplementation to the diet of weaning Rex rabbits. To this end, rabbits were treated with L. buchneri at two different doses (LC: 104 cfu/g diet and HC: 105 cfu/g diet) for 4 weeks. PCR-DGGE was used to determine the diversity of the intestinal microbiota, while real-time PCR permitted the detection of individual bacterial species. ELISA and real-time PCR allowed the identification of numerous cytokines in the intestinal tissues. Zonula occludens-1, polymeric immunoglobulin receptor and immunoglobulin A genes were examined to evaluate intestinal barriers. Results showed that the biodiversity of the intestinal microbiota of weaning Rex rabbits improved in the whole tract of the treated groups. The abundance of most detected bacterial species was highly increased in the duodenum, jejunum and ileum after L. buchneri administration. The species abundance in the HC group was more increased than in the LC group when compared to the control. Although the abundance of Enterobacteriaceae exhibited a different pattern, Escherichia coli was inhibited in all treatment groups. Toll-like receptor (TLR)2 and TLR4 genes were down-regulated in all intestinal tissues as the microbiota changed. In the LC group, the secretion of the inflammatory cytokine tumour necrosis factor-α was reduced, the gene expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)-4 was up-regulated and the expression of intestinal-barrier-related genes was enhanced. Conversely, IL-4 expression was increased and the expression of other tested genes did not change in the HC group. The beneficial effects of LC were greater than those of HC or the control in terms of improving the daily weight gain and survival rate of weaning Rex rabbits and reducing their diarrhoea rate. Therefore, 104 cfu/g L. buchneri treatment improved the microbiota of weaning Rex rabbits and prevented diarrhoea in these animals.

Secretory Clusterin Mediates Oxaliplatin Resistance via the Gadd45a/PI3K/Akt Signaling Pathway in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Purpose: Systemic therapy has often been used for patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, due to drug resistance, the use of cytotoxic chemotherapy in the treatment of patients with advanced HCC has typically demonstrated low response rates. Secretory clusterin (sCLU) is expressed in aggressive late-stage tumors and associated with resistance to chemotherapy, including that in HCC cases. The present research aimed to investigate the biological role of sCLU in HCC.

Methods: sCLU expression in HCC and normal tissues was examined using immunohistochemical staining, followed by analysis of the correlation between sCLU expression and clinical indicators. In addition, the role and internal mechanism of sCLU in cell proliferation and apoptosis were investigated in HCC cells.

Results: sCLU expression was significantly upregulated in HCC tissues; and was associated with histological grade and poor overall survival. The levels of sCLU were significantly increased in Bel7402, SMMC7721 and resistant HCC cells (Bel7404-OR). Inhibiting the activity of sCLU enhanced the chemosensitivity of Bel7402 and SMMC7721 cells. Downregulation of sCLU could increase the expression of Gadd45a in HCC cells. Overexpression of sCLU contributed to drug resistance in Bel7402, SMMC7721 and Bel7404-OR cells; whereas, overexpression of Gadd45a alone overcame drug resistance in the cells above. No significant expression changes of sCLU and Gadd45a were observed in HCC cells after the interference of a selective inhibitor of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. However, regulation of the expression of Gadd45a could influence the phosphorylation level of Akt; and further regulate the expression of Bcl-2 and Bax proteins involved in the mitochondrial apoptosis pathways.

Conclusions: The results demonstrate that sCLU/Gadd45a/PI3K/Akt signaling represents a novel pathway that could regulate drug resistance in a one-way manner in HCC cells.

Downregulation of cathepsin G reduces the activation of CD4+ T cells in murine autoimmune diabetes

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is an autoimmune disease due to progressive injury of islet cells mediated by T lymphocytes (T cells). Our previous studies have shown that only cathepsin G (CatG), not other proteases, is involved in the antigen presentation of proinsulin, and if the presentation is inhibited, the activation of CD4+ T cells induced by proinsulin is alleviated in T1DM patients, and CatG-specific inhibitor reduces the activation of CD4+ cells induced by proinsulin in T1DM patients. Therefore, we hypothesize that CatG may play an important role in the activation of CD4+ T cells in T1DM. To this end, mouse studies were conducted to demonstrate that CatG impacts the activation of CD4+ T cells in non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice. CatG gene expression and the activation of CD4+ T cells were examined in NOD mice. The effect of CatG inhibitor was investigated in NOD mice on the activation of CD4+ T cells, islet β cell function, islet inflammation and β-cell apoptosis. Furthermore, NOD mice were injected with CatG siRNA in early stage to observe the effect of CatG knockdown on the activation status of CD4+ T cells and the progression of diabetes. During the pathogenesis of diabetes, the expression level of CatG in NOD mice gradually increased and the CD4+ T cells were gradually activated, resulting in more TH1 cells and less TH2 and Treg cells. Treatment with CatG-specific inhibitor reduced the blood glucose level, improved the function of islet β cells and reduced the activation of CD4+ T cells. Early application of CatG siRNA improved the function of islet β cells, reduced islet inflammation and β cell apoptosis, and lowered the activation level of CD4+ T cells, thus slowing down the progression of diabetes.

[Cancer-associated-fibroblasts regulate the chemoresistance of lung cancer cell line A549 via SDF-1 secretion]

Objective: To investigate whether cancer-associated- fibroblasts (CAF), the key component of tumor microenvironment, regulate the chemoresistant capacity of lung cancer cell line A549 through SDF-1 secretion. Methods: Primary cell isolation techniques was used to isolate cancer-associated-fibroblasts from lung cancer patients. MTT assay was applied to determine the proliferation and chemoresistance of A549 cells. Quantative PCR was used to detect the mRNA changes of Bcl-xL. Western blotting was used to detect the protein expression of Bcl-xL. ELISA was applied to detect the SDF-1 secretion from normal fibroblasts (NF) and CAF. Results: CAF promoted the proliferation of A549 cells, while NF had no significant effect on them. After 72 hrs incubation, the absorbance value of A549+ CAF medium group was 0.814±0.006, significantly different from the 0.753±0.006 of the A549+ NF medium group (P<0.05). The Q-PCR assay indicated that mRNA expressions of Bcl-xL in the A549 group, A549+ NF medium group and A549+ CAF medium group were 1.00±0.11, 1.10±0.09 and 3.50±0.30, respectively, showing a significant difference between the A549+ NF medium group and A549+ CAF medium group (P<0.05). The Western blot showed that protein expressions of Bcl-xL in the A549 group, A549+ NF medium group and A549+ CAF medium group were 1.00±0.08, 1.10±0.12 and 3.10±0.25, respectively, with a significant difference between the A549+ NF medium group and A549+ CAF medium group (P<0.05). The ELISA results showed that the SDF-1 concentrations in the A549+ NF medium group and A549+ CAF medium group were 3.23±0.02 and 9.53±0.10, respectively, significantly different from each other (P<0.05). The MTT assay indicated that the absorbance values of OD of A549 group, A549+ AMD3100 group, A549+ NF medium group, A549+ NF medium+ AMD3100 group, A549+ CAF medium and A549+ CA Fmedium+ AMD3100 group were 0.43±0.03, 0.25±0.02, 0.48±0.03, 0.31±0.03, 0.72±0.06 and 0.45±0.03, respectively. The data of A549+ NF medium group was significantly different from that of A549+ CAF medium group (P<0.05). Conclusions: Cancer-associated-fibroblasts enhance the drug resistance of A549 cells through SDF-1 secretion, upregulating the expression level of Bcl-xL through interaction with CXCR4. Our study not only illustrates that tumor microenvironment is able to enhance drug resistance of tumor, but also provides experimental evidence for the cancer-associated-fibroblasts as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of lung cancer.

Blockade of β-catenin signaling attenuates toluene diisocyanate-induced experimental asthma

BACKGROUND

Aberrant activation of β-catenin signaling by both WNT-dependent and WNT-independent pathways has been demonstrated in asthmatic airways, which is thought to contribute critically in remodeling of the airways. Yet, the exact role of β-catenin in asthma is very poorly defined. As we have previously reported abnormal expression of β-catenin in a toluene diisocyanate (TDI)-induced asthma model, in this study, we evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of two small molecules XAV-939 and ICG-001 in TDI-asthmatic male BALB/c mice, which selectively block β-catenin-mediated transcription.

METHODS

Male BALB/c mice were sensitized and challenged with TDI to generate a chemically induced asthma model. Inhibitors of β-catenin, XAV-939, and ICG-001 were respectively given to the mice through intraperitoneally injection.

RESULTS

TDI exposure led to a significantly increased activity of β-catenin, which was then confirmed by a luciferase assay in 16HBE transfected with the TOPFlash reporter plasmid. Treatment with either XAV-939 or ICG-001 effectively inhibited activation of β-catenin and downregulated mRNA expression of β-catenin-targeted genes in TDI-asthmatic mice, paralleled by dramatically attenuated TDI-induced hyperresponsiveness and inflammation of the airway, alleviated airway goblet cell metaplasia and collagen deposition, decreased Th2 inflammation, as well as lower levels of TGFβ1, VEGF, HMGB1, and IL-1β.

CONCLUSION

The results showed that β-catenin is a principal mediator of TDI-induced asthma, proposing β-catenin as a promising therapeutic target in asthma.

Retraction: Cell orientation, proliferation, and differentiation on poly(l-lactide) spherulites

Retraction of ‘Cell orientation, proliferation, and differentiation on poly(l-lactide) spherulites’ by F. Zou et al., RSC Adv., 2016, 6, 57396–57402.

Effects of oncostatin M on cell proliferation and osteogenic differentiation in C3H10T1/2

OBJECTIVE

To explore the effects of protein factor Oncostatin M (OSM), a member of the Interleukin-6 (IL-6) family on cell proliferation, osteogenic differentiation and mineralization.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Basal nutrient solutions of different concentrations of OSM (0, 5, 10, 20, 40, 80 ng/ml) were used. In order to divide embryonic origin between mesenchymal stem cells C3H10T1/2 of in vitro cultured mice, and the effects of in vitro proliferation efficiencies of C3H10T1/2 cells of different concentrations of OSM, the C3H10T1/2 cells were divided into four groups: (1) Basal nutrient solution group (negative control); (2) Osteogenesis induced liquid group (positive control); (3) OSM (20 ng/ml) group; (4) Experimental group (osteogenesis induced liquid + OSM (20 ng/ml)). The expressions levels of relevant osteogenesis and mineralization genes were detected.

RESULTS

OSM had several effects on promoting the proliferation of embryonic origin mesenchymal stem cells C3H10T1/2 with respect to time of exposure as well as concentrations. In the present study, it has been shown that when the concentration of OSM is 20 ng/ml, the effects of promoting proliferation are most obvious. OSM can induce osteogenic differentiation of C3H10T1/2, make the process of osteogenic differentiation in advance, and promote the formation of end-stage calcium deposits and mineralized nodule, and osteogenic differentiation of C3H10T1/2 is finally achieved.

CONCLUSION

OSM can promote the proliferation of C3H10T1/2, and induce its osteogenic differentiation and end-stage mineralization.

[Investigation of CXCR4 mediated chemoresistance in nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell line CNE2]

Objective:Since nasopharyngeal carcinoma is easy to develop resistance during cisplatin-based chemotherapy,CXCR4 expression levels were elevated in mang tumors,and the factor to do with tumor metastasis and chemotherapy drug resistance,and so on has a very important link.We established cisplatin-resistant nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell line, named as CNE2/DDP, and investigated the function of CXCR4 in molecular mechanism behind this resistance.Method:CNE2/DDP was firstly build up by increasing concentration of cisplatin. And then afterwards,MTT assay, RNA interference techniques, microRNA overexpresion techniques, quantative PCR and western blotting were applied to analyze the function of CXCR4 and its downstream effectors.Result:①the expression of CXCR4 was increased in CNE2/DDP and downregulation of CXCR4 with CXCR4 siRNA was able to decrease the resistance of CNE/DDP to cisplatin; ②the expression of let-7a was decrease in CNE2/DDP, while the expression of bcl-2 was increased. Upregulation of let-7a via transfection of let-7a mimics could downregulate the expression of bcl-2 and damage the resistance of CNE2/DDP to cisplation;③downregulation of CXCR4 through CXCR4 siRNA transfection was capable of improving the expression of let-7a. Conclusion:We were the first to found that CXCR4 was related to chemoresistance of CNE2/DPP to cisplatin. Meanwhile, we confirmed that CXCR4 affected the expression of bcl-2 through regulating the expression of let-7a to modulate the chemoresistance of CNE2/DPP to cisplatin.

One case of multiple vascular tumors of the spleen

Multiple vascular tumors of the spleen is a rare clinical condition. Since this condition has no specific clinical manifestations, MRI is the preferred imaging examination. However, there is still certain difficulty in the diagnosis, and a clear diagnosis often relies on pathology. Surgery is the primary therapeutic option for multiple vascular tumors of the spleen.

Impact of glucose load in an oral glucose tolerance test on urinary albumin excretion varies with 2-h glucose levels

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present study was to investigate whether an oral glucose load can induce an increase in urinary albumin excretion (UAE).

METHODS

One hundred and thirty subjects without macroalbuminuria or increased fasting serum glucose (≥7.0 mmol/L) were included in the study. At 0600 hours, subjects were asked to empty their bladder and drink 300 mL water. At 0800 hours, venous blood and 2-h urine were collected for fasting examination. Subjects were then asked to drink 300 mL solution containing 75 g glucose and, at 1000 hours, samples were collected again for post-challenge examination. Concentrations of serum glucose, urinary glucose, albumin, N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase and retinol-binding protein were measured.

RESULTS

Based on the results of the oral glucose tolerance test, subjects were divided into three groups: (i) normal glucose tolerance (NGT; n = 55); (ii) impaired glucose tolerance (IGT; n = 39); and (iii) newly diagnosed diabetes mellitus (NDM; n = 36). In the NDM group, post-challenge urinary excretion of glucose and albumin was 14- and 1.6-fold greater than fasting values, respectively. In the IGT and NGT groups, although post-challenge urinary glucose excretion was 2.6- and 1.6-fold greater than fasting values, UAE did not increase. There was a positive correlation between post-challenge serum glucose and the UAE rate (UAER; r = 0.24, P < 0.01) and the UAER increment (ΔUAER; r = 0.19, P < 0.05), as well as between the serum glucose increment and post-challenge UAER (r = 0.23, P < 0.01) and ΔUAER (r = 0.18, P < 0.05). Post-challenge serum glucose levels were independently correlated with logarithmically converted post-challenge UAER (β = 0.322, P = 0.008).

CONCLUSIONS

Oral glucose load can induce a significant increase in UAE in NDM subjects. The main mechanism may be glomerular hyperfiltration.

Gene expression in major depressive disorder

The search for genetic variants underlying major depressive disorder (MDD) has not yet provided firm leads to its underlying molecular biology. A complementary approach is to study gene expression in relation to MDD. We measured gene expression in peripheral blood from 1848 subjects from The Netherlands Study of Depression and Anxiety. Subjects were divided into current MDD (N=882), remitted MDD (N=635) and control (N=331) groups. MDD status and gene expression were measured again 2 years later in 414 subjects. The strongest gene expression differences were between the current MDD and control groups (129 genes at false-discovery rate, FDR<0.1). Gene expression differences across MDD status were largely unrelated to antidepressant use, inflammatory status and blood cell counts. Genes associated with MDD were enriched for interleukin-6 (IL-6)-signaling and natural killer (NK) cell pathways. We identified 13 gene expression clusters with specific clusters enriched for genes involved in NK cell activation (downregulated in current MDD, FDR=5.8 × 10(-5)) and IL-6 pathways (upregulated in current MDD, FDR=3.2 × 10(-3)). Longitudinal analyses largely confirmed results observed in the cross-sectional data. Comparisons of gene expression results to the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium (PGC) MDD genome-wide association study results revealed overlap with DVL3. In conclusion, multiple gene expression associations with MDD were identified and suggest a measurable impact of current MDD state on gene expression. Identified genes and gene clusters are enriched with immune pathways previously associated with the etiology of MDD, in line with the immune suppression and immune activation hypothesis of MDD.

Initial locomotor sensitivity to cocaine varies widely among inbred mouse strains

Initial sensitivity to psychostimulants can predict subsequent use and abuse in humans. Acute locomotor activation in response to psychostimulants is commonly used as an animal model of initial drug sensitivity and has been shown to have a substantial genetic component. Identifying the specific genetic differences that lead to phenotypic differences in initial drug sensitivity can advance our understanding of the processes that lead to addiction. Phenotyping inbred mouse strain panels are frequently used as a first step for studying the genetic architecture of complex traits. We assessed locomotor activation following a single, acute 20 mg/kg dose of cocaine (COC) in males from 45 inbred mouse strains and observed significant phenotypic variation across strains indicating a substantial genetic component. We also measured levels of COC, the active metabolite, norcocaine and the major inactive metabolite, benzoylecgonine, in plasma and brain in the same set of inbred strains. Pharmacokinetic (PK) and behavioral data were significantly correlated, but at a level that indicates that PK alone does not account for the behavioral differences observed across strains. Phenotypic data from this reference population of inbred strains can be utilized in studies aimed at examining the role of psychostimulant-induced locomotor activation on drug reward and reinforcement and to test theories about addiction processes. Moreover, these data serve as a starting point for identifying genes that alter sensitivity to the locomotor stimulatory effects of COC.

A highly selective and sensitive near-infrared fluorescent probe for imaging of hydrogen sulphide in living cells and mice

Hydrogen sulphide (H₂S), the third endogenous gaseous signalling molecule, has attracted attention in biochemical research. The selective detection of H₂S in living systems is essential for studying its functions. Fluorescence detection methods have become useful tools to explore the physiological roles of H₂S because of their real-time and non-destructive characteristics. Herein we report a near-infrared fluorescent probe, NIR-HS, capable of tracking H₂S in living organisms. With high sensitivity, good selectivity and low cytotoxicity, NIR-HS was able to recognize both the exogenous and endogenous H₂S in living cells. More importantly, it realized the visualization of endogenous H₂S generated in cells overexpressing cystathionine β-synthase (CBS), one of the enzymes responsible for producing endogenous H₂S. The probe was also successfully applied to detect both the exogenous and endogenous H₂S in living mice. The superior sensing properties of the probe render it a valuable research tool in the H₂S-related medical research.

Retracted Article: Cell orientation, proliferation, and differentiation on poly(l-lactide) spherulites

We show cytoskeleton and nuclear alignment on PLLA crystallized at 140 °C. Cell proliferation and differentiation were also promoted significantly and we study the effect of polymer spherulites on cell orientation, proliferation and differentiation.