Incidence and risk factors for febrile neutropenia of patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma receiving R-CHOP-21 in China

OBJECTIVE

Febrile neutropenia (FN) is a serious complication of patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) receiving R-CHOP-21. The prophylactic use of granulocyte colony-stimulating factors (G-CSFs) can significantly reduce the risk of FN. International guidelines recommend G-CSFs for patients receiving chemotherapy with FN risk of 20% or 10 to 20% with defined risk factors. However, there are few studies on the incidence and risk factors of FN in patients with DLBCL receiving R-CHOP-21, especially in patients without primary G-CSF prophylaxis.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective analysis for the clinical data of 103 patients with DLBCL who underwent first R-CHOP-21 without primary G-CSF prophylaxis. The objective of the assessment was the incidence and risk factors of FN after the first chemotherapy cycle.

RESULTS

After the first chemotherapy cycle, the incidence of FN was 20.4%. Multivariate analysis showed that age ≥ 65 years, bone marrow involvement, albumin < 35 g/L, and average relative dose intensity ≥ 80% were independent risk factors for FN. According to risk factors, we created a risk score system. The incidence of FN in the low-, intermediate- and high-risk groups was 5.6%, 17.2%, and 61.9%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Our data indicated that R-CHOP-21 itself is associated with a high-risk regiment for FN. We recommend that intermediate/high-risk patients should actively consider primary G-CSF prophylaxis to reduce the incidence of FN after chemotherapy.

Proteomic Analysis of the Mitochondrial Responses in P19 Embryonic Stem Cells Exposed to Florfenicol

Florfenicol (FLO) has been shown to elicit diverse toxic effects in plants, insects, and mammals. Previously, our investigations revealed that FLO induced abnormal cardiac development and early embryonic mortality in chicken embryos. However, the effect of FLO on mitochondrial responses in stem cells remains unclear. In this study, we show that FLO significantly diminishes proliferation viability and obstructs the directed differentiation of P19 stem cells (P19SCs) into cardiomyocytes. Proteomic analysis revealed 148 differentially expressed proteins in response to FLO. Functional analysis has pinpointed FLO interference with biological processes associated with oxidative phosphorylation within the mitochondria. In alignment with the results of proteomic analysis, we confirmed that FLO inhibits the expression of both nuclear DNA-encoded and mitochondrial DNA-encoded subunits of the electron transport chain. Subsequent experiments demonstrated that FLO disrupts mitochondrial dynamics and induces the mitochondrial unfolded protein response to maintain mitochondrial homeostasis. These findings collectively highlight the significance of mitochondrial dynamics and the mitochondrial unfolded protein response to mediate the decreased proliferation viability and directed differentiation potential in P19SCs treated with FLO. In conclusion, this study provides a comprehensive overview of mitochondrial responses to FLO-induced cytotoxicity and enhances our understandings of the molecular mechanisms underlying FLO-induced embryonic toxicity.

A Phase I Trial of Focal Salvage Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy for Radiorecurrent Prostate Cancer

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Locally recurrent prostate cancer after radiotherapy (RT) is an increasingly recognized entity with no standard management. NCT03253744 was a phase I trial with a primary objective of identifying the maximally tolerated dose (MTD) of a course of image-guided, focal, salvage stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) for patients with local recurrence after prior definitive RT. Additional objectives included biochemical control and imaging response on mpMRI and 18F-DCFPyL (PSMA) PET/CT.

MATERIALS/METHODS

SBRT was prescribed to three dose levels (DLs): 40Gy (DL1), 42.5Gy (DL2), and 45Gy (DL3) in 5 fractions. The prescription dose was delivered to a PTV defined by mpMRI and PSMA imaging and biopsy confirmed tumor volume. Dose escalation followed a 3+3 design with a 3-patient expansion at the MTD. Toxicities above baseline were scored using CTCAE v5.0 criteria for two years after completion of SBRT. Escalation was halted if 2 dose limiting toxicities (DLTs) were observed. DLTs were defined as any persistent (>4 days) grade 3 toxicity occurring within the first 3 weeks after SBRT, and any grade 3 GU or grade 4 GI toxicity thereafter. Imaging response was compared between baseline and 6-months by the Wilcoxon signed rank test.

RESULTS

Between 08/2018 and 05/2022, 8 patients underwent salvage SBRT to 11 intraprostatic lesions with a median follow-up of 27 months. No DLTs were observed on DL1. Two patients were enrolled on DL2 and both experienced grade 3 GU toxicities, prompting de-escalation and expansion (n = 6) on DL1, the MTD. The most common toxicities were grade 2 GU toxicities: acute urinary urgency/frequency, acute weak urinary stream, and noninfective cystitis. One patient at DL1 had a self-limited episode of grade 2 GI toxicity (proctitis). No grade 3 GI toxicities were observed. All but two patients achieved an undetectable PSA nadir. Only one of these experienced biochemical failure (nadir + 2.0) at 33 months with suspicion of distant metastatic failure on restaging PET/CT. Imaging response was demonstrated by MRI in all lesions with heterogeneity in volumetric response (6% to 100%). A significant (p<0.01) response on PSMA PET/CT was observed for all measured parameters (SUVMax, SUVMean, GTVPSMA, Total Lesion PSMA [SUVMean × GTVPSMA]). Of the 11 lesions, 1 (9%) demonstrated a complete response (CR) by MRI and 9 (82%) by PSMA PET/CT. A single lesion increased in volume by 0.06 cc (16%) at 6-month PSMA PET/CT compared to baseline in the only patient who did not achieve an undetectable PSA nadir and did not have imaging suggestive of distant failure.

CONCLUSION

On this phase I dose escalation study of salvage SBRT for isolated intraprostatic local failure after definitive RT, the MTD was 40Gy in 5 fractions. producing a 100% 24-month bPFS, with one late failure at 33 months occurring after the 24-month study period. The most frequent clinically significant toxicity was late grade 2 GU toxicity. Imaging response was demonstrated in all lesions on MRI and PSMA PET/CT with exception of a single lesion.

Exposure to bisphenol A induces neurotoxicity associated with synaptic and cytoskeletal dysfunction in neuro-2a cells

Bisphenol A (BPA) has been reported to injure the developing and adult brain. However, the underlying mechanism still remains elusive. This study used neuro-2a cells as a cellular model to investigate the neurotoxic effects of BPA. Microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAP2) and tau protein maintain microtubule normal function and promote the normal development of the nervous system. Synaptophysin (SYP) and drebrin (Dbn) proteins are involved in regulating synaptic plasticity. Cells were exposed to the minimum essential medium (MEM), 0.01% (v/v) DMSO, and 150 μM BPA for 12, 24, or 36 h. Morphological analysis revealed that the cells in the BPA-treated groups shrank and collapsed compared with those in the control groups. CCK-8 and lactate dehydrogenase assay (LDH) assays showed that the mortality of neuro-2a cells increased as the BPA treatment time was prolonged. Ultrastructural analysis further revealed that cells demonstrated nucleolar swelling, dissolution of nuclear and mitochondrial membranes, and partial mitochondrial condensation following exposure to BPA. BPA also decreased the relative protein expression levels of MAP2, tau, and Dbn. Interestingly, the relative protein expression levels of SYP increased. These results indicated that BPA inhibited the proliferation and disrupted cytoskeleton and synaptic integrity of neuro-2a cells.

Fluoride exposure disrupts the cytoskeletal arrangement and ATP synthesis of HT-22 cell by activating the RhoA/ROCK signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Fluoride, an environmental contaminant, is ubiquitously present in air, water, and soil. It usually enters the body through drinking water and may cause structural and functional disorders in the central nervous system in humans and animals. Fluoride exposure affects cytoskeleton and neural function, but the mechanism is not clear.

METHODS

The specific neurotoxic mechanism of fluoride was explored in HT-22 cells. Cellular proliferation and toxicity detection were investigated by CCK-8, CCK-F, and cytotoxicity detection kits. The development morphology of HT-22 cells was observed under a light microscope. Cell membrane permeability and neurotransmitter content were determined using lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and glutamate content determination kits, respectively. The ultrastructural changes were detected by transmission electron microscopy, and actin homeostasis was observed by laser confocal microscopy. ATP enzyme and ATP activity were determined using the ATP content kit and ultramicro-total ATP enzyme content kit, respectively. The expression levels of GLUT1 and 3 were assessed by Western Blot assays and qRT-PCR.

RESULTS

Our results showed that fluoride reduced the proliferation and survival rates of HT-22 cells. Cytomorphology showed that dendritic spines became shorter, cellular bodies became rounder, and adhesion decreased gradually after fluoride exposure. LDH results showed that fluoride exposure increased the membrane permeability of HT-22 cells. Transmission electron microscopy results showed that fluoride caused cells to swell, microvilli content decreased, cellular membrane integrity was damaged, chromatin was sparse, mitochondria ridge gap became wide, and microfilament and microtubule density decreased. Western Blot and qRT-PCR analyses showed that RhoA/ROCK/LIMK/Cofilin signaling pathway was activated by fluoride. F-actin/G-actin fluorescence intensity ratio remarkably increased in 0.125 and 0.5 mM NaF, and the mRNA expression of MAP2 was significantly decreased. Further studies showed that GLUT3 significantly increased in all fluoride groups, while GLUT1 decreased (p < 0.05). ATP contents remarkably increased, and ATP enzyme activity substantially decreased after NaF treatment with the control.

CONCLUSION

Fluoride activates the RhoA/ROCK/LIMK/Cofilin signaling pathway, impairs the ultrastructure, and depresses the connection of synapses in HT-22 cells. Moreover, fluoride exposure affects the expression of glucose transporters (GLUT1 and 3) and ATP synthesis. Sum up fluoride exposure disrupts actin homeostasis, ultimately affecting structure, and function in HT-22 cells. These findings support our previous hypothesis and provide a new perspective on the neurotoxic mechanism of fluorosis.

Exposure to fluoride induces apoptosis in the liver, kidney, and heart of Xenopus laevis by regulating the Caspase-8/3 signaling pathway

Fluoride compounds are abundant and widely distributed in the environment at various concentrations, which can seriously injure the human body. In this study, we aim to evaluate the effects of excessive fluoride exposure on the liver, kidney, and heart tissues of healthy female Xenopus laevis by administering NaF (0, 100, and 200 mg/L) in drinking water for 90 days. The expression level of procaspase-8, cleaved-caspase-8, and procaspase-3 proteins were determined by Western blot. Compared with the control group, the group exposed to NaF exhibited expression levels of procaspase-8, cleaved-caspase-8, and procaspase-3 proteins that were considerably upregulated at a concentration of 200 mg/L in the liver and kidney. The cleaved-caspase-8 protein expression in the group exposed to a high concentration of NaF was lower than that in the control group in heart. Histopathological results by hematoxylin and eosin staining showed that excessive NaF exposure caused necrosis of hepatocytes and vacuolization degeneration. Granular degeneration and necrosis in renal tubular epithelial cells were also observed. Moreover, hypertrophy of myocardial cells, atrophy of myocardial fibers and disorder of myocardial fibers were detected. These results demonstrated that NaF-induced apoptosis and the mediated death receptor pathway activation ultimately damaged the liver and kidney tissues. This finding offers a fresh perspective on the effects of F-induced apoptosis in X. laevis.

Case report: First report of haploidentical allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation from donors with mild alpha-thalassemia for acute leukemia

For acute leukemia (AL) with adverse prognostic factors, allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) is the standard care option after the first complete remission. Meanwhile, as the success of haploidentical HSCT (haplo-HSCT), haploidentical donors (HIDs) become a reliable choice. However, there have been no reports on haplo-HSCT from HIDs with mild alpha(α)-thalassemia for AL yet. In the present report, we first describe two cases of successful haplo-HSCT from HIDs with mild α-thalassemia for AL.

Acute lead acetate induces neurotoxicity through decreased synaptic plasticity-related protein expression and disordered dendritic formation in nerve cells

Lead (Pb) is a widespread environmental heavy metal that can damage the cerebral cortex and hippocampus, and reduce the learning and memory ability in humans and animals. In vivo and in vitro models of acute lead acetate exposure were established to further study the mechanism of neurons injury. In this study, 4-week-old female Kunming mice were randomly divided into four groups. Each group was treated with distilled water with different Pb concentrations (0, 2.4, 4.8 and 9.6 mM). Mice were killed, and brain tissues were collected to detect the changes in synaptic plasticity-related protein expression. Furthermore, Neuro-2A cells were treated with 0, 5, 25 and 50 μM lead acetate for 24 h to observe the changes in cell morphology and function. In in vivo experiment, results showed that the expression levels of cytoskeleton-associated and neural function-related proteins decreased in a dose-dependent manner in the mouse brain tissue. In in vitro experiment, compared with the control group, Pb treatment groups were observed with smaller and round cells, decreased cell density and number of synapses. In the Pb exposure group, the survival rate of nerve cells decreased evidently, and the permeability of the cell membrane was increased. Western blot results showed that the expression of cytoskeleton-associated and function-related proteins decreased gradually with increased Pb exposure dose. Confocal laser scanning microscopy results revealed the morphological and volumetric changes in Neuro-2A cells, and a dose-dependent reduction in the number of axon and dendrites. These results suggested that abnormal neural structures and inhibiting expression of synaptic plasticity-related proteins might be the possible mechanisms of Pb-induced mental retardation in human and animals, thereby laying a foundation for the molecular mechanism of Pb neurotoxicity.

Molecular Mechanisms Underlying the Inhibition of Proliferation and Differentiation by Florfenicol in P19 Stem Cells: Transcriptome Analysis

Florfenicol (FLO), which is widely used in veterinary clinics and aquaculture, can disrupt the protein synthesis of bacteria and mitochondria and, thus, lead to antibacterial and toxic effects in plants, insects, and mammals. FLO was found to repress chicken embryonic development and induce early embryonic death previously, but the underlying mechanism is not fully understood. Clarifying the mechanism of FLO-induced embryonic toxicity is important to the research and development of new drugs and the rational use of FLO to ensure human and animal health and ecological safety. In this study, the effects of FLO on pluripotency, proliferation, and differentiation were investigated in P19 stem cells (P19SCs). We also identified differentially expressed genes and performed bioinformatics analysis to obtain hub genes and conducted some functional analysis. FLO inhibited the proliferation and pluripotency of P19SCs and repressed the formation of embryoid bodies derived from P19SCs. A total of 2,396 DEGs were identified using RNA-Seq in FLO-treated P19SCs, and these genes were significantly enriched in biological processes, such as angiogenesis, embryonic organ development, and morphogenesis of organs. Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genome-based pathway analysis also showed that five relevant pathways, especially the canonical Wnt pathway, were engaged in FLO-induced toxicity of pluripotent stem cells. We further analyzed modules and hub genes and found the involvement of ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis, DNA replication, and cell cycle machinery in regulating the pluripotency and proliferation of FLO-treated P19SCs. In summary, our data suggest that FLO disrupts the signaling transduction of pathways, especially the canonical Wnt pathway, and further inhibits the expression of target genes involved in regulating DNA replication, cell cycle, and pluripotency. This phenomenon leads to the inhibition of proliferation and differentiation in FLO-treated P19SCs. However, further experiments are required to validate our findings and elucidate the potential mechanisms underlying FLO-induced embryonic toxicity.

Disruption of hematopoiesis attenuates the osteogenic differentiation capacity of bone marrow stromal cells

Background

The homeostasis of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is modulated by both their own intracellular molecules and extracellular milieu signals. Hematopoiesis in the bone marrow is maintained by niche cells, including MSCs, and it is indispensable for life. The role of MSCs in maintaining hematopoietic homeostasis has been fully elucidated. However, little is known about the mechanism by which hematopoietic cells reciprocally regulate niche cells. The present study aimed to explore the close relationship between MSCs and hematopoietic cells, which may be exploited for the development of new therapeutic strategies for related diseases.

Methods

In this study, we isolated cells from the offspring of Tie2Cre + and Pten^flox/flox mice. After cell isolation and culture, we investigated the effect of hematopoietic cells on MSCs using various methods, including flow cytometry, adipogenic and osteogenic differentiation analyses, quantitative PCR, western bloting, and microCT analysis.

Results

Our results showed that when the phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10 (Pten) gene was half-deleted in hematopoietic cells, hematopoiesis and osteogenesis were normal in young mice; the frequency of erythroid progenitor cells in the bone marrow gradually decreased and osteogenesis in the femoral epiphysis weakened as the mice grew. The heterozygous loss of Pten in hematopoietic cells leads to the attenuation of osteogenic differentiation and enhanced adipogenic differentiation of MSCs in vitro. Co-culture with normal hematopoietic cells rescued the abnormal differentiation of MSCs, and in contrast, MSCs co-cultured with heterozygous null Pten hematopoietic cells showed abnormal differentiation activity. Co-culture with erythroid progenitor cells also revealed them to play an important role in MSC differentiation.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that hematopoietic cells function as niche cells of MSCs to balance the differentiation activity of MSCs and may ultimately affect bone development.

Protein phosphatase 2A catalytic subunit β suppresses PMA/ionomycin-induced T-cell activation by negatively regulating PI3K/Akt signaling

The precise regulation of the T-cell activation process is critical for overall immune homeostasis. Although protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) is required for T-cell development and function, the role of PPP2CB, which is the catalytic subunit β isoform of PP2A, remains unknown. In the present study, using a T cell-specific knockout mouse of PPP2CB (PPP2CB^fl/fl Lck-Cre⁺ ), we demonstrated that PPP2CB was dispensable for T-cell development in the thymus and peripheral lymphoid organs. Furthermore, PPP2CB deletion did not affect T-cell receptor (TCR)-induced T-cell activation or cytokine-induced T-cell responses; however, it specifically enhanced phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) plus ionomycin-induced T-cell activation with increased cellular proliferation, elevated CD69 and CD25 expression, and enhanced cytokine production (inteferon-γ, interleukin-2 and tumor necrosis factor). Mechanistic analyses suggested that the PPP2CB deletion enhanced activation of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/Akt signaling pathway and Ca²⁺ flux following stimulation with PMA plus ionomycin. Moreover, the specific PI3K inhibitor rescued the augmented cell activation in PPP2CB-deficient T cells. Using mass spectrometry-based phospho-peptide analysis, we identified potential substrates of PPP2CB during PMA plus ionomycin-induced T-cell activation. Collectively, our study provides evidence of the specific role of PPP2CB in controlling PMA plus ionomycin-induced T-cell activation.

CD19 CAR-T Cells With Membrane-Bound IL-15 for B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia After Failure of CD19 and CD22 CAR-T Cells: Case Report

Objectives

At present, reinfusions of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell have exhibited limited efficacy, while their efficacy on extramedullary relapse remains to be further elucidated in B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL). Although combination with IL-15 demonstrated the potential to enhance antitumor activity of CAR-T, the efficacy of this approach remains to be validated clinically.

Methods

We reported a patient with B-ALL with extramedullary relapse after allogeneic stem cell transplantation and who was resistant to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. In total, he received four treatments with CAR-T cells repeatedly under the status of disease progression.

Results

First, the patient received autologous murine CAR19-CD28-CD3ζ-T cells and achieved full resolution of extramedullary leukemia lasting 8 months. After systemic disease relapse, he received autologous humanized CAR22-41BB-CD3ζ-tEGFR-T cells and achieved complete remission (CR) with incomplete blood count recovery (CRi) with minimal residual disease (MRD) negativity in the bone marrow and shrinkage of extramedullary leukemia. Over 2 months later, he experienced a relapse of the systemic disease and he received autologous murine CAR19-41BB-CD3ζ-mIL15-T cells and achieved CRi_MRD- lasting 5 months with the strongest expansion and persistence of CAR. Finally, on relapse of CD19^- medullary disease, he received allogeneic humanized CAR22-41BB-CD3ζ-tEGFR-T cells but only achieved a transient decrease in the number of blasts. No CAR-T-cell-related encephalopathy syndrome was observed, and all side effects were manageable.

Conclusion

Our report hints the feasibility and safety of CD19 CAR-T cell expressing membrane-bound IL-15 for patient with B-ALL even if relapsed after multiple CAR-T-cell therapies.

Fluoride exposure decreased neurite formation on cerebral cortical neurons of SD rats in vitro

Fluoride, a geochemical element, can damage the brain and result in dysfunction of the central nervous system. In recent years, fluoride-induced neurotoxicity has become one of research focuses of environmental toxicology. Our previous study showed that fluoride could induce the structural damages of the cerebral cortex and reduce the learning and memory abilities of mice offspring. However, the underlying mechanisms of these effects remain unclear. In this study, primary neurons were isolated from the cerebral cortices of postnatal 1-day SD rats. The primary cultured cerebral cortical neurons were adherent and the cellular network was obvious. Neurons were identified by Nissl's staining and were used for experiments. Different concentrations of sodium fluoride (0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 and 2.5 mM) were chosen to explore its toxic effects on neuron of SD rats in vitro. Results showed that neuronal morphology was obviously damaged in 2.0 and 2.5 mM, but was not adversely affected in 0.5 and 1 mM. Further studies revealed that the neurites of neuron were shrunken and even became fractured with the increase in NaF dose, which have been detected by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Meanwhile, TEM showed marginated chromatin, widened nuclear gaps, damaged nuclei and swollen or even absent mitochondria in 1.5, 2 and 2.5 mM group. The cytoskeletal staining was consistent with the above results. The number of neurites of cerebral cortical neuron significantly decreased after fluoride exposure by immunofluorescent assay. In summary, high fluoride (1.5, 2 and 2.5 mM) concentrations exerted a significant toxic effect on the cellular morphologies and neural formation of primary cultured cortical neurons. These findings provide new insights into the roles of NaF in neuronal damage and can contribute to an improved understanding of fluoride-induced neurotoxicity.

Bisphenol A exposure induces apoptosis and impairs early embryonic development in Xenopus laevis

Bisphenol A (BPA), an endocrine-disrupting chemical that is largely produced and used in the plastics industry, causes environmental pollution and is absorbed by humans through consumption of food and liquids in polycarbonate containers. BPA exerts developmental and genetic toxicities to embryos and offsprings, but the embryotoxicity mechanism of this chemical is unclear. This study aimed to explore the toxic effect of BPA on embryonic development and elucidate its toxicity mechanism. Embryos of Xenopus laevis as a model were treated with different concentrations (0.1, 1, 10, and 20 μM) of BPA at the two-cell stage to investigate the developmental toxicity of BPA. Embryonic development and behaviors were monitored 24 h-96 h of BPA exposure. BPA concentrations greater than 1 μM exerted significant teratogenic effects on the Xenopus embryos, which showed short tail axis, miscoiled guts, and bent notochord as the main malformations. The 20 μM BPA-treated embryos were seriously damaged in all aspects and exhibited deformity, impaired behavioral ability, and tissue damage. The DNA integrity and apoptosis of the Xenopus embryos were also investigated. Exposure to BPA concentrations higher than 0.1 μM significantly induced DNA damage (p < 0.05). The 10 and 20 μM BPA-treated embryos exhibited higher levels of cleaved caspase-3 protein than the control. The ratios of bax/bcl-2 mRNA were significantly higher in the 10 μM and 20 μM-treated embryos than the ratio in the control group. Overall, data indicated that BPA can delay the early development, induce DNA damage and apoptosis, and eventually cause multiple malformations in Xenopus embryos.

Effect of dietary l-arginine of broiler breeder hens on embryonic development, apparent metabolism, and immunity of offspring

This study investigated the effects of supplemented l-arginine (l-Arg) in broiler breeder hens' diets on the embryonic development and physiological changes of offspring during the hatching period. A total of 480 35-wk-old healthy female Arbor Acres broiler breeders were randomly divided into 6 groups and fed a corn and soybean meal diet with 6 digestible Arg levels (0.96%, 1.16%, 1.35%, 1.55%, 1.74%, and 1.93%). After a 10-wk experiment, eggs were collected for incubation. At embryonic day (E) 11 to E21, eggs, embryos, and organs (liver, breast muscle, and thigh muscle) were weighed. Total protein, urea nitrogen, creatinine, cholesterol, and triglyceride in plasma, were measured. Plasma level of immunoglobulin G (IgG), immunoglobulin M (IgM), and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) were measured at E13, E17, and E21. Messenger RNA expression of carbamoyl phosphate synthase I (CPS1), ornithine transcarbamylase (OTC), and argininosuccinate synthase (ASS) in liver and breast muscle tissues was assessed at E13, E17, and E21. The results showed that 1.16% Arg in maternal diet increased egg weight (P < 0.05). The level of Arg in maternal diet has a significant effect on organ index and embryo weight of multiple embryonic days (P < 0.05). Embryonic plasma total protein concentration was significantly affected by maternal dietary Arg level (P < 0.05) and exhibited quadratic responses at E11, E15, E17, and E21 (P < 0.01). Plasma urea nitrogen, creatinine, triglyceride, and cholesterol level were also significantly affected by the level of maternal Arg at different embryonic ages (P < 0.05). Dietary digestible Arg levels quadratically influenced plasma urea nitrogen level at E21 (P < 0.05) and cholesterol concentration at E17 and E19 (P < 0.01). L-Arg supplementation in maternal diet significantly improved the IgG level at E17 and E21 (1.16%, 1.35%, 1.55%, and 1.74%; P < 0.05), the IgM level at E13 (1.35%, 1.55%, 1.74%, and 1.93%) and E17 (P < 0.05) and the NOS level at E13, E17, and E21 (P < 0.05). Maternal dietary L-Arg supplementation significantly improved the expression of CPS1 gene, OTC gene (1.16%, 1.35%, and 1.55%), and ASS gene (1.35% and 1.55%) in the liver (P < 0.05), and also enhanced the CPS1 gene (except 1.35%) and OTC gene (1.55% and 1.74%) expression in the breast muscle (P < 0.05). In conclusion, maternal Arg level affected the embryonic development of offspring and regulated the apparent metabolic programming and immunity state of the embryo. Arginine level of 1.55% in hens' diet was beneficial to the protein synthesis and immunity of the offspring in the embryonic period, and it was recommended to obtain healthy offspring.

Signatures of Ultrafast Reversal of Excitonic Order in Ta_{2}NiSe_{5}

In the presence of electron-phonon coupling, an excitonic insulator harbors two degenerate ground states described by an Ising-type order parameter. Starting from a microscopic Hamiltonian, we derive the equations of motion for the Ising order parameter in the phonon coupled excitonic insulator Ta_{2}NiSe_{5} and show that it can be controllably reversed on ultrashort timescales using appropriate laser pulse sequences. Using a combination of theory and time-resolved optical reflectivity measurements, we report evidence of such order parameter reversal in Ta_{2}NiSe_{5} based on the anomalous behavior of its coherently excited order-parameter-coupled phonons. Our Letter expands the field of ultrafast order parameter control beyond spin and charge ordered materials.

Ultrafast Enhancement of Ferromagnetic Spin Exchange Induced by Ligand-to-Metal Charge Transfer

We theoretically predict and experimentally demonstrate a nonthermal pathway to optically enhance superexchange interaction energies in a material based on exciting ligand-to-metal charge-transfer transitions, which introduces lower-order virtual hopping contributions that are absent in the ground state. We demonstrate this effect in the layered ferromagnetic insulator CrSiTe_{3} by exciting Te-to-Cr charge-transfer transitions using ultrashort laser pulses and detecting coherent phonon oscillations that are impulsively generated by superexchange enhancement via magneto-elastic coupling. This mechanism kicks in below the temperature scale where short-range in-plane spin correlations begin to develop and disappears when the excitation energy is tuned away from the charge-transfer resonance, consistent with our predictions.

Dietary Cyanidin-3-Glucoside Attenuates High-Fat-Diet-Induced Body-Weight Gain and Impairment of Glucose Tolerance in Mice via Effects on the Hepatic Hormone FGF21

BACKGROUND

Dietary polyphenols including anthocyanins target multiple organs.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to assess the involvement of glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), leptin, insulin and fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) in mediating metabolic beneficial effects of purified anthocyanin cyanidin-3-glucoside (Cy3G).

METHODS

Intestinal proglucagon gene (Gcg; encoding GLP-1) and liver Fgf21 expression were assessed in 6-wk-old male C57BL-6J mice fed a low-fat-diet (LFD; 10% of energy from fat), alone or with 1.6 mg Cy3G/L in drinking water for 3 wk [experiment (Exp.) 1; n = 5/group]. Similar mice were fed the LFD or a high-fat diet (HFD; 60% energy from fat) with or without Cy3G for 20 wk. Half of the mice administered Cy3G also received 4 broad-spectrum antibiotics (ABs) in drinking water between weeks 11 and 14, for a total of 6 groups (n = 8/group). Metabolic tolerance tests were conducted between weeks 2 and 16. Relevant hormone gene expression and plasma hormone concentrations were assessed mainly at the end of 20 wk (Exp. 2).

RESULTS

In Exp. 1, Cy3G administration increased ileal but not colonic Gcg level by 2-fold (P < 0.05). In Exp. 2, Cy3G attenuated HFD-induced body-weight gain (20.3% at week 16), and improved glucose tolerance (26.5% at week 15) but not insulin tolerance. Although Cy3G had no effect on glucose tolerance in LFD mice, LFD/Cy3G/AB mice showed better glucose tolerance than LFD/Cy3G mice (23%). In contrast, HFD/Cy3G/AB mice showed worse glucose tolerance compared with HFD/Cy3G mice (15%). Beneficial effects of Cy3G in HFD mice were not associated with changes in plasma leptin, insulin or GLP-1 concentrations. However, Cy3G increased hepatic Fgf21 expression in mice in Exp. 1 by 4-fold and attenuated Fgf21 overexpression in HFD mice (Exp. 2, 22%), associated with increased expression of genes that encode FGFR1 and β-klotho (>3-fold, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Dietary Cy3G may reduce body weight and exert metabolic homeostatic effects in mice via changes in hepatic FGF21.

Bisphenol-A exposure induced neurotoxicity and associated with synapse and cytoskeleton in Neuro-2a cells

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an environmental chemical that induces neurotoxic effects for human. Synaptophysin (SYP) and drebrin (Dbn) proteins are involved in regulating synaptic morphology. The stability of the cytoskeleton in nerve cells in the brain is regulated by Tau and MAP2. This study aimed to determine the toxicity of BPA to Neuro-2a cells by investigating the synaptic and cytoskeletal damage induced in these cells by 24 h of exposure to 0 (MEM), 50, 100, 150, or 200 μM BPA or DMSO. MTT and LDH assays showed that the death rates of Neuro-2a cells increased, as the BPA concentration increased. Ultrastructural assays revealed that cells underwent nucleolar swelling as well as nuclear membrane and partial mitochondrial dissolution or condensation, following BPA exposure. Morphological analysis further revealed that compared with the cells in the control group, the cells in the BPA-treated groups shrank, became rounded, and exhibited a reduced number of synapses. BPA also significantly decreased the relative protein and mRNA expression levels of Dbn, MAP2 and Tau (P < .01), but increased the relative protein and mRNA expression levels of SYP (P < .01). These results indicated that BPA suppressed the development and proliferation of Neuro-2a cells by disrupting cellular and synaptic integrity and inflicting cytoskeleton injury.

Pharmacokinetics and Safety of Posaconazole Tablet Formulation in Chinese Participants at High Risk for Invasive Fungal Infection

INTRODUCTION

This study characterized the multidose pharmacokinetic (PK) characteristics of posaconazole tablets used as prophylactic antifungal therapy in Chinese patients with acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) at risk for invasive fungal infection (IFI).

METHODS

Participants in this open-label, single-arm, phase 1b study received posaconazole 300 mg twice daily on day 1 and then once daily for up to 28 days. In the intensive PK sampling subgroup, posaconazole was administered under fasting conditions on days 1 and 8, and blood samples were regularly collected over 24 h. Trough PK sampling was conducted in all participants on days 1, 2, 3, 8, 14, 21, and 28 without regard for food intake. Population PK characteristics were predicted using PK modeling. Primary endpoints were steady-state average concentration (C_avg) and percentage of participants with steady-state C_avg (predicted and observed) > 500 ng/ml. Treatment safety and efficacy were secondary endpoints.

RESULTS

Sixty-five adult Chinese participants were enrolled. On day 8, steady-state arithmetic mean C_avg was 1610 ng/ml (% coefficient of variation [%CV] 42.8%) in the intensive PK subgroup (n = 20). All participants achieved a steady-state C_avg > 500 ng/ml. Predicted C_avg (pC_avg) was 1770 ng/ml (%CV 33.7%) in the total population (n = 64); 92.2% of participants had pC_avg values ≥ 500 ng/ml (n = 59). The posaconazole tablet safety profile was consistent with that of the oral formulation, and the IFI rate was 3%.

CONCLUSION

In Chinese AML patients, the posaconazole 300-mg tablet provided PK data comparable with those of previous studies and was generally well tolerated and efficacious.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02387983.

iTRAQ-based proteomic analysis reveals key proteins affecting cardiac function in broilers that died of sudden death syndrome

Sudden death syndrome (SDS), which is a cardiac-related condition commonly observed in chickens selected for rapid growth, causes significant economic losses to the global poultry industry. Its pathogenesis in broilers is poorly understood, and little is known about the proteome of the heart tissue of SDS broilers. A quantitative proteomic approach using isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification labeling of peptides was used to characterize the protein expression profiles in the left ventricle of SDS broilers. These proteins were further analyzed by bioinformatics, and two proteins were validated by western blot analysis. We identified 186 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs), of which 72 were upregulated, and 114 were downregulated in the SDS group. Functional annotation suggested that 7 DEPs were related to cardiac muscle contraction, and another 7 DEPs were related to cardiac energy metabolism. Protein interaction network predictions indicated that differences in cardiac muscle contraction between SDS and healthy groups were regulated by troponin T, tropomyosin alpha-1 chain, fast myosin heavy chain HCIII, myosin-1B, coronin, and myoglobin, whereas differences in cardiac energy metabolism and biosynthesis of amino acids were regulated by gamma-enolase, phosphoglycerate mutase, NADH-ubiquinone oxidoreductase chain 2, serine/threonine-protein kinase, myoglobin, and alpha-amylase. Our expression profiles provide useful information and new insights into key proteins to elucidate SDS for further studies.

Growth and cardiovascular development are repressed by florfenicol exposure in early chicken embryos

Florfenicol (FLO) is one of the most popular antibacterial drugs used in veterinary clinics and aquaculture. The drug was found to decrease the hatchability of eggs laid by treated hens in veterinary clinics and research work. However, the pathological changes in developing embryos and their cardiovascular system and the mechanism underlying FLO-induced embryonic death remain unclear. In the present study, fertilized eggs laid by hens treated with a therapeutic dose of FLO were collected and incubated. Results showed that FLO exposure repressed embryonic development and induced early embryonic death. As a result, FLO decreased the hatchability and increased the proportion of weak chicks. Moreover, FLO exposure led to embryonic lethality and inhibited the development of chick embryos as characterized by decreased weights, lagging distribution of Hamburger–Hamilton stages, and dysplastic eyes. Pathological examination indicated that FLO exposure affected the normal development of the heart in 4.5-day-old chick embryos, as characterized by shorter transverse cardiac diameter, disordered arrangement of trabecular muscles in ventricles, and reduced thickness of ventricular walls. Furthermore, FLO decreased blood vascular densities and downregulated the expression levels of key angiogenesis-related genes, including the vascular endothelial growth factor and fibroblast growth factor, in the yolk sac membrane. These findings indicated that FLO exposure restricted vascular development during early embryonic development. In summary, our data suggest that the restricted growth and abnormal cardiovascular development may be responsible for FLO-induced early embryonic death. Thus, these findings can be useful for guiding the proper use of FLO and in laying a foundation for further studies on the mechanism of FLO-induced embryonic toxicity.

Quantitative Analysis of Thymus-Independent Donor-Derived T Cell Expansion in Transplant Patients

Although thymus-independent donor-derived T cell expansion may determine the occurrence of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) and relapse after transplantation, the characteristics and dynamics of the expansion process remain unclear. To address this issue, we monitored T cell receptor β repertoire at day 0, day 28, and day 61 after transplantation in 30 patients with hematologic malignancies by next-generation sequencing. The clonality index showed an increasing clonality over time (P = .001). The top 200 clonotypes accounted for more than half of the total clonotypes (median frequency, 63.55%) at day 61, and there was a remarkable overlapping between the top 200 clonotypes of each repertoire and its former repertoire (>50%). A normalized index, called the T Cell Response Index (TCRI), was designed on the basis of rank-shift analysis to quantify antigen-driven expansion. The TCRI during the first month was not related to relapse or GVHD (P> .05), whereas the TCRI during the second month was related to relapse (P = .006). Recipients with a TCRI below 1.0 during the second month had a higher cumulative relapse rate (31.25% versus 0%, P = .0323) and had a lower 1-year survival rate (56.25% versus 78.57%, P = .281). The clonotypes with strong competitiveness in the second month in the nonrelapse group preferentially used TRBV2, TRBV12-3, TRBJ1-1 and TRBJ1-5 segments (P< .01). In conclusion, homeostatic expansion predominates in the first month due to nonspecific T cell proliferation, whereas antigen-driven expansion predominates in the second month and results in a graft-versus-tumor (GvT) effect. Moreover, TCRI could serve as a quantitative indicator of GvT against relapse within the first year. The difference in V and J segment usage reveals that T cells responsible for potent GvT effect are similar among patients.

CRISPR-Edited Stem Cells in a Patient with HIV and Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia

The safety of CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats)-based genome editing in the context of human gene therapy is largely unknown. CCR5 is a reasonable but not absolutely protective target for a cure of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection, because CCR5-null blood cells are largely resistant to HIV-1 entry. We transplanted CRISPR-edited CCR5-ablated hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) into a patient with HIV-1 infection and acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The acute lymphoblastic leukemia was in complete remission with full donor chimerism, and donor cells carrying the ablated CCR5 persisted for more than 19 months without gene editing-related adverse events. The percentage of CD4+ cells with CCR5 ablation increased by a small degree during a period of antiretroviral-therapy interruption. Although we achieved successful transplantation and long-term engraftment of CRISPR-edited HSPCs, the percentage of CCR5 disruption in lymphocytes was only approximately 5%, which indicates the need for further research into this approach. (Funded by the Beijing Municipal Science and Technology Commission and others; ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT03164135.).

Expression and tissue distribution analysis of Angiotensin II in sheep (Ovis aries) skins associated with white and black coat colors

Angiotensin II (AngII) regulates pigment synthesis by tyrosinase in melanocytes. To evaluate the association between AngII and coat color formation, we detected the expression distribution of AngII in white and black sheep skins by LC-ESI-MS/MS, western blot, quantitative real-time-PCR (qPCR) and distribution of AngII by immunohistochemistry.Liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization tandem MS (LC-ESI-MS/MS) results showed that AngII was found in white and black skin tissues of sheep. Western blot results verified the LC-ESI-MS/MS results and suggested that AngII was expressed at significantly higher levels in black sheep skins compared with the white sheep skins. Quantitative real time PCR (qRT-PCR) results also revealed that the expression level of AngII mRNA was higher in black sheep skins than that in white sheep skins. Immunohistochemical analysis further demonstrated that AngII protein was localized in the hair bulb and outer root sheath of hair follicle in sheep. In summary, protein and transcripts exhibited the same expression pattern in white and black sheep skins. Furthermore, the expressions of AngII in the hair bulb and outer root sheath of black sheep were stronger than those in white sheep. These results suggested that AngII functions in sheep coat color regulation and offer a novel insight for further investigation on the role of AngII in the coat color formation in sheep.

Cadmium induces actin cytoskeleton alterations and dysfunction in Neuro-2a cells

Cadmium (Cd) is considered a possible etiological factor in neurodegenerative diseases. However, the exact mechanism by which Cd induces neurotoxicity is not well elucidated. In this study, Neuro-2a cells were treated with 0, 10, 20, and 40 μM cadmium chloride for 24 hours to investigate the effects of Cd on the cytoskeleton of nerve cells. MTT assay and ELISA assay were used to examine cell viability and release of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) from cells, respectively. Results showed that Cd reduced cell viability and increased the release of LDH in a dose-dependent manner (P < 0.05). The morphology of treated cell was damaged as indicated by cell collapse and dimensionality reduction. Moreover, the axonal spines and normal features of Cd-treated neurons disappeared. We checked the ultrastructure of Neuro-2a cells and found that Cd-induced swelling, membrane damage, overflow of cytoplasm contents, and cell fragmentation. Damaged mitochondria, expanded endoplasmic reticulum, and abnormal microfilaments were found in Cd-treated cells rather than in untreated cells. Compared with the control group, the relative release of glutamate in the supernatant after Cd treatment was reduced, indicating that Cd exposure could reduce the release of glutamate by inhibiting the function of nerve-2a cells. Cd decreased the mRNA and protein expression levels of cytoskeletal proteins including DBN, SYP, and TAU, which might promote cytoskeleton alterations in Cd-treated cells. In conclusion, Cd-induced actin cytoskeleton alterations and dysfunction of cultured neurons. The results of the present study provide new insights for the investigation of Cd-induced neurotoxicity.

Baseline concentration of misfolded α-synuclein aggregates in cerebrospinal fluid predicts risk of cognitive decline in Parkinson's disease

BACKGROUND

The prognostic significance of misfolded α-synuclein (α-Syn) aggregates in Parkinson's disease (PD) has not been well investigated. The aim of this study was to reveal the relationship between misfolded α-Syn aggregate concentration in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and cognitive decline risk in PD.

METHODS

A total of 278 patients with PD were retrospectively included. They were diagnosed between 2011 and 2013. The end-point was 2016, and the follow-up period was 54.3 ± 10.0 months. Cognitive decline was defined as a 4-point decrease in the Mini-Mental State Examination score during follow-up. Misfolded α-Syn aggregate concentration in baseline CSF was measured using the protein misfolding cyclic amplification (PMCA) technique. Time to reach 50% of the maximum fluorescence value was recorded.

RESULTS

The PMCA technique successfully detected the level of misfolded α-Syn aggregates in CSF with a sensitivity of 85.3% and a specificity of 91.4%. The time to reach 50% of the maximum fluorescence value was shorter in the patients with cognitive decline than in the patients without cognitive decline (190.7 ± 40.1 h vs. 240.8 ± 45.6 h, P < 0.001). Multifactorial Cox regression analysis revealed that reaching 50% of the maximum fluorescence value in ≤219 h at baseline was associated with increased risk of cognitive decline during the follow-up (HR: 4.90, 95% CI: 2.75-8.74, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Baseline concentration of misfolded α-Syn aggregates in CSF measured by the PMCA technique predicts risk of cognitive decline in PD.

Fluoride-induced alterations of synapse-related proteins in the cerebral cortex of ICR offspring mouse brain

Fluoride (F) exposure causes cognitive dysfunction in humans and animals. However, the precise molecular mechanisms by which fluoride exerts its neurotoxic effects are poorly understood. In this study, an animal model of fluoride exposure was created by providing ICR mice were treated with vehicle F at a dose of 0 (control group), 50 (low-fluoride group) or 100 mg/L (high-fluoride group) in water for one month. After the mice mated, parents and offspring were treated and maintained under these conditions. The cognitive abilities of the mice were examined using a Morris water maze test. Results indicated that fluoride exposure significantly prolonged the escape latency period and decreased the number of crossings in a particular zone. Histopathologic analysis revealed the shrinkage and fragmentation of glial cells in the fluoride-treated groups. Pyramidal cells in the cerebral cortices of fluoride-treated groups were fewer than those of the control group. The expression of microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAP2) and synaptic proteins of the cerebral cortex in mouse offspring was assayed using RT-PCR and Western blot. Fluoride exposure possibly induced a significantly decreased expression of MAP2, synaptophysin (SYP) and developmentally regulated brain protein (Dbn) at protein and mRNA levels. Glutamate receptor (N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor, NMDAR) was also expressed, and this finding was consistent with the reduced MAP2, SYP and Dbn expression. Therefore, fluoride-mediated reduction in cognitive dysfunction is likely caused by the disruption of the expression of these synapse-associated proteins, resulting in attenuated neuronal functioning.

Lead-induced changes of cytoskeletal protein is involved in the pathological basis in mice brain

Lead poisoning is a geochemical disease. On the other hand, lead is highly carcinogenic and exhibits liver and kidney toxicity. This element can also cross the blood-brain barrier, reduce learning and memory ability and damage the structure of the cerebral cortex and hippocampus. To further investigate the mechanism of lead neurotoxicity, 4-week-old Kunming mice were used to explore the effects of different concentrations of Pb²⁺ (0, 2.4, 4.8 and 9.6 mM) for 9 days. In this study, pathological and ultrastructural changes in brain cells of the treated group were related to damages to mitochondria, chromatin and the nucleus. Lead content in blood was tested by atomic absorption spectroscopy, which showed high lead concentrations in the blood with increasing doses of lead. Distribution of lead in nerve cells was analysed by transmission electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy. Data showed the presence of lead in nucleopores, chromatin and nuclear membrane of nerve cells in the treatment groups, whereas lead content increased with increasing doses of lead acetate. Finally, microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAP2) mRNA and protein expression levels were detected by real-time PCR and Western blotting, which showed a reduction in MAP2 expression with increasing lead doses in the mouse brain. These findings suggest that acute lead poisoning can cause significant dose-dependent toxic effects on mouse brain function and can contribute to better understanding of lead-induced toxicity.

Identification of a novel functional JAK1 S646P mutation in acute lymphoblastic leukemia

The survival rate of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is approaching 90%, while the prognosis of adults remains poor due to the limited therapeutic approaches. In order to identify new targets for ALL, we performed whole-exome sequencing on four adults with B-ALL and discovered a somatic JAK1 S646P mutation. Sanger sequencing of JAK1 was conducted on 53 ALL patients, and two cases exhibited A639G and P960S mutations separately. Functional studies demonstrated that only JAK1 S646P mutation could activate multiple signaling pathways, drive cytokine-independent cell growth, and promote proliferation of malignant cells in nude mice. Moreover, a high sensitivity to the JAK1/2 inhibitor ruxolitinib was observed in S646P mutant model. Exploration in a total of 209 ALL cases showed that JAK1 mutations occur at a frequency of 10.5% in T-ALL (2/19) and 1.6% in B-ALL (3/190). Collectively, our results suggested that JAK1 S646P is an activating mutation in vitro and in vivo. JAK-STAT pathway might represent a promising therapeutic target for ALL.

Efficacy of intracellular immune checkpoint-silenced DC vaccine

BACKGROUND

DC-based tumor vaccines have had limited clinical success thus far. SOCS1, a key inhibitor of inflammatory cytokine signaling, is an immune checkpoint regulator that limits DC immunopotency.

METHODS

We generated a genetically modified DC (gmDC) vaccine to perform immunotherapy. The adenovirus (Ad-siSSF) delivers two tumor-associated antigens (TAAs), survivin and MUC1; secretory bacterial flagellin for DC maturation; and an RNA interference moiety to suppress SOCS1. A 2-stage phase I trial was performed for patients with relapsed acute leukemia after allogenic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: in stage 1, we compared the safety and efficacy between gmDC treatment (23 patients) and standard donor lymphocyte infusion (25 patients); in stage 2, we tested the efficacy of the gmDC vaccine for 12 acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients with early molecular relapse.

RESULTS

gmDCs elicited potent TAA-specific CTL responses in vitro, and the immunostimulatory activity of gmDC vaccination was demonstrated in rhesus monkeys. A stage 1 study established that this combinatory gmDC vaccine is safe in acute leukemia patients and yielded improved survival rate. In stage 2, we observed a complete remission rate of 83% in 12 relapsed AML patients. Overall, no grade 3 or grade 4 graft-versus-host disease incidence was detected in any of the 35 patients enrolled.

CONCLUSIONS

This study, with combinatory modifications in DCs, demonstrates the safety and efficacy of SOCS1-silenced DCs in treating relapsed acute leukemia.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01956630.

FUNDING

National Institute of Health (R01CA90427); the Key New Drug Development and Manufacturing Program of the "Twelfth Five-Year Plan" of China (2011ZX09102-001-29); and Clinical Application Research of Beijing (Z131107002213148).

The effects of fluoride on neuronal function occurs via cytoskeleton damage and decreased signal transmission

It has been reported that fluoride exposure may cause serious public health problems, particularly neurotoxicity. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study used Neuro-2A cells to investigate the effects of fluoride on the cytoskeleton. The Neuro-2A cells were exposed to 0, 1, 2, 4 and 6 mM sodium fluoride (NaF) for 24 h. Cell viability and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release were examined. It was observed that exposure to NaF reduced cell viability, disrupted cellular membrane integrity, and high levels of LDH were released. The observed changes occurred in a dose response manner. Morphologic observations showed that cell became rounded and were loosely adherent following exposure to NaF. Axon spines and normal features disappeared with high dose NaF treatment. The expression of MAP2 and synaptophysin decreased, particularly at 4 mM and 6 mM (P < 0.05) for MAP2. These results corroborate the morphologic observations. The content of glutamate and NMDAR (glutamate receptor) protein were assessed to help understand the relationship between synapses and neurotransmitter release using ELISA and Western-blot. Compared with the control, glutamate and NMDAR expression declined significantly at 4 mM and 6 mM (P < 0.05) group. Finally, the ultrastructural changes observed with increasing doses of NaF were: disappearance of synapses, mitochondrial agglutination, vacuole formation, and cellular edema. Taken together, NaF exposure disrupted cellular integrity and suppressed the release of neurotransmitters, thus effecting neuronal function. These findings provide deeper insights into roles of NaF in neuron damage, which could contribute to a better understanding of fluoride-induced neurotoxicity.