Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-Cas9 transfection of guide RNA targeting on MMP9 as anti-cancer therapy in human cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma cell line A431

Introduction

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common form of skin malignancy, representing around 20% of all skin cancers. It is the main cause of death due to non-melanoma skin cancer every year. Metastatic cutaneous SCC is associated with poor prognosis in patients and warrants a more effective and specific approach such as disruption of genes associated with cancer metastasis.

Material and methods

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are enzymes involved in cancer progression and are regarded as major oncotargets. Among others, MMP9 plays critical roles in tumour progression, angiogenesis, and invasion of cutaneous SCC. We aimed to determine whether the MMP9 gene is a suitable gene target for anti-cancer therapy for cutaneous SCC. We performed clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)-Cas9 transfection of guide RNA (gRNA) targeting the MMP9 gene into human cutaneous SCC cell line A431.

Results

Following CRISPR transfection treatment, the viability (p < 0.01) and migratory activities (p < 0.0001) of in vitro cutaneous SCC cells were found to be reduced significantly. The use of quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) also revealed downregulation of the mRNA expression levels of cancer-promoting genes TGF-β, FGF, PI3K, VEGF-A, and vimentin. Direct inhibition of the MMP9 gene was shown to decrease survivability and metastasis of cutaneous SCC cell line A431.

Conclusions

Our findings provided direct evidence that MMP9 is important in the viability, proliferation, and metastasis of cutaneous SCC cells. It serves as a positive foundation for future CRISPR-based targeted anti-cancer therapies in treating skin cancer and other forms of malignancies that involve MMPs as the key determinants.

Nanocomposites of iron oxide, sodium alginate, and eugenol induce apoptosis via PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling in Hep3 cells and in vivo hepatotoxicity in the zebrafish model

Hepatic cancer is among the most recurrently detected malignancies worldwide and one of the main contributors to cancer-associated mortality. With few available therapeutic choices, there is an instant necessity to explore suitable options. In this aspect, Nanotechnology has been employed to explore prospective chemotherapeutic approaches, especially for cancer treatment. Nanotechnology is concerned with the biological and physical properties of nanoparticles in the therapeutic use of drugs. In the current work, formulation, and characterization of α-Fe2O3-Sodium Alginate-Eugenol nanocomposites (FSE NCs) using several approaches like SEM and TEM, UV-visible, FTIR, and PL spectroscopy, XRD, EDAX, and DLS studies have been performed. With an average size of 50 nm, the rhombohedral structure of NCs was identified. Further, their anticancer activity against Hep3B liver cancer cell lines has been performed by cell viability, dual staining, DCFH-DA, Annexin-V/-FITC/PI, cell cycle analysis methods, and PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling proteins were studied to assess the anticancer effects of the NCs in Hep3B cells. Also, anti-cancer activity on animal modeling in-vivo using zebra fishes to hematological parameters, liver enzymes, and histopathology study effectiveness was noticed. Moreover, the NCs reduced the viability, elevated the ROS accumulation, diminished the membrane integrity, reduced the antioxidants, blocked the cell cycle, and triggered the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling axis that eventually resulted in cell death. As a result, FSE NCs possess huge potential for use as a possible anticancer candidate.

Syzygium cumini (L.) Extract-Derived Green Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles Induce Caspase-Dependent Apoptosis in Hepatic Cancer Cells

An aqueous extract of Syzygium cumini seeds was utilized to green synthesize titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs). UV-Visible, DLS, FTIR, XRD, FESEM, TEM, SAED, EDAX, and photoluminescence spectroscopy techniques were employed to characterize the prepared TiO2 nanoparticles. The rutile crystal structure of TiO2 NPs was revealed by XRD study. The TEM and FESEM images of the TiO2 NPs revealed an average particle size of 50-100 nm. We employed EDAX to investigate the elemental compositions of TiO2 NPs. The O-Ti-O stretching bands appeared in the FTIR spectrum of TiO2 NPs at wavenumbers of 495 cm-1. The absorption edge peaks of TiO2 NPs were found in the UV-vis spectra at 397 nm. The MTT study revealed that TiO2 NPs effectively inhibited the growth of liver cancer Hep3 and Hep-G2 cells. The results of the corresponding fluorescent staining assays showed that TiO2 NPs significantly increased ROS generation, decreased MMP, and induced apoptosis in both liver cancer Hep3 and Hep-G2 cells. TiO2 nanoparticles lessened SOD, CAT, and GSH levels while augmenting MDA contents in Hep3 and Hep-G2 cells. In both Hep3 and Hep-G2 cells treated with TiO2 NPs, the Bax, CytC, p53, caspase-3, -8, and -9 expressions were remarkably augmented, while Bcl-2 expression was reduced. Overall, these findings revealed that formulated TiO2 NPs treatment considerably inhibited growth and triggered apoptosis in Hep3 and HepG2 cells.

Current advances in the development of meniscus tissue engineering: narrative review

INTRODUCTION

The meniscus plays an important role in maintaining homeostasis to facilitate the normal function of the knee joint. It is one of the most commonly injured areas of the knee joint. Meniscal-related injuries can lead to significantly decreased athletic ability, and their incidence has increased yearly. It has been found that most meniscal injuries are irreparable, and meniscectomy can increase the predisposition to knee osteoarthritis. Tissue engineering technology on meniscus repairing and transplantation has received widespread attention recently. This review aimed to analyse the scientific literature regarding the potential applications of tissue engineering on meniscus repairing and transplantation procedures.

METHOD AND MATERIALS

The electronic search was carried out using PubMed/MEDLINEⓇdatabases with the keywords "tissue engineering AND meniscus" spanning the period of publications from Jan 1980 until Dec 2022.

RESULTS

The literature search identified 405 references in PubMed/MEDLINE, and 179 were selected following the eligibility requirements. The research analysis showed that the existing meniscal tissue engineering studies used a wide variety of seed cells, cytokines, bioactive materials and 3D structures. Each showed distinct advantages and disadvantages in terms of biocompatibility, degradability, mechanical strength, porosity, and etc. It was noted that 3D printing technology is promising for tissue engineering meniscus research. In addition, the optimal use of compression and hydrostatic pressure to markedly improve the functional properties of tissue-engineering meniscal can serve as an useful strategy.

CONCLUSION

This review analysed the different approaches employed for meniscus tissue engineering and regeneration. Meniscal tissue engineering still faces several major challenges in terms of seed cells, choice of materials and 3D printing strategies, which should be effectively overcome to harness the full potential of this technology.

Sodium alginate encapsulated iron oxide decorated with thymoquinone nanocomposite induces apoptosis in human breast cancer cells via PI3K-Akt-mTOR pathway

The present study investigated the cytotoxicity and proapoptotic properties of iron oxide-sodium-alginate-thymoquinone nanocomposites against breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells in vitro and in silico. This study used chemical synthesis to formulate the nanocomposite. Electron microscopies such as scanning (SEM) and transmission (TEM), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), Ultraviolet-Visible, Photoluminescence spectroscopy, selected area (electron) diffraction (SAED), energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), and X-ray diffraction studies (XRD) were used to characterize the synthesized ISAT-NCs and the average size of them was found to be 55 nm. To evaluate the cytotoxic, antiproliferative, and apoptotic potentials of ISAT-NCs on MDA-MB-231 cells, MTT assays, FACS-based cell cycle studies, annexin-V-PI staining, ELISA, and qRT-PCR were used. PI3K-Akt-mTOR receptors and thymoquinone were predicted using in-silico docking studies. Cell proliferation is reduced in MDA-MB-231 cells due to ISAT-NC cytotoxicity. As a result of FACS analysis, ISAT-NCs had nuclear damage, ROS production, and elevated annexin-V levels, which resulted in cell cycle arrest in the S phase. The ISAT-NCs in MDA-MB-231 cells were found to downregulate PI3K-Akt-mTOR regulatory pathways in the presence of inhibitors of PI3K-Akt-mTOR, showing that these regulatory pathways are involved in apoptotic cell death. We also predicted the molecular interaction between thymoquinone and PI3K-Akt-mTOR receptor proteins using in-silico docking studies which also support PI3K-Akt-mTOR signaling inhibition by ISAT-NCs in MDA-MB-231 cells. As a result of this study, we can conclude that ISAT-NCs inhibit the PI3K-Akt-mTOR pathway in breast cancer cell lines, causing apoptotic cell death.

Pluronic-F-127-Passivated SnO2 Nanoparticles Derived by Using Polygonum cuspidatum Root Extract: Synthesis, Characterization, and Anticancer Properties

Nanotechnology has emerged as the most popular research topic with revolutionary applications across all scientific disciplines. Tin oxide (SnO₂) has been gaining considerable attention lately owing to its intriguing features, which can be enhanced by its synthesis in the nanoscale range. The establishment of a cost-efficient and ecologically friendly procedure for its production is the result of growing concerns about human well-being. The novelty and significance of this study lie in the fact that the synthesized SnO₂ nanoparticles have been tailored to have specific properties, such as size and morphology. These properties are crucial for their applications. Moreover, this study provides insights into the synthesis process of SnO₂ nanoparticles, which can be useful for developing efficient and cost-effective methods for large-scale production. In the current study, green Pluronic-coated SnO₂ nanoparticles (NPs) utilizing the root extracts of Polygonum cuspidatum have been formulated and characterized by several methods such as UV-visible, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), energy dispersive X-ray (EDAX), transmission electron microscope (TEM), field emission-scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), photoluminescence (PL), and dynamic light scattering (DLS) studies. The crystallite size of SnO₂ NPs was estimated to be 45 nm, and a tetragonal rutile-type crystalline structure was observed. FESEM analysis validated the NPs' spherical structure. The cytotoxic potential of the NPs against HepG2 cells was assessed using the in vitro MTT assay. The apoptotic efficiency of the NPs was evaluated using a dual-staining approach. The NPs revealed substantial cytotoxic effects against HepG2 cells but failed to exhibit cytotoxicity in different liver cell lines. Furthermore, dual staining and flow cytometry studies revealed higher apoptosis in NP-treated HepG2 cells. Nanoparticle treatment also inhibited the cell cycle at G0/G1 stage. It increased oxidative stress and promoted apoptosis by encouraging pro-apoptotic protein expression in HepG2 cells. NP treatment effectively blocked the PI3K/Akt/mTOR axis in HepG2 cells. Thus, green Pluronic-F-127-coated SnO₂ NPs exhibits enormous efficiency to be utilized as an talented anticancer agent.

Effects of Albumin-Chlorogenic Acid Nanoparticles on Apoptosis and PI3K/Akt/mTOR Pathway Inhibitory Activity in MDA-MB-435s Cells

In this study, we synthesized, characterized, and explored the anti-microbial and anti-cancer effects of albumin-chlorogenic acid nanoparticles (NPs). Characterization studies with a UV-vis spectrophotometer, FTIR, PL spectrum, TEM, FESEM, XRD, and DLA analysis showed patterns confirming the physio-chemical nature of biogenic nanocomposites. Further, anti-microbial studies using bacterial strains Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumonia, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Vibrio cholera, and fungal strain Candida albicans showed significant (p < 0.05) anti-bacterial and anti-fungal activities. Next, we used MDA-MB-435s, a human cell line, to evaluate the anti-cancer effects of albumin-chlorogenic acid NPs. Cytotoxic studies revealed its IC50 concentration at 24 μg/mL after a 24 h treatment of MDA-MB-435s cells. We chose this IC50 dose to analyze albumin-chlorogenic acid NPs anti-cancer effects in vitro. MDA-MB-435s cells exposed to our NPs were studied via AO/EtBr staining, cell cycle analyses via PI staining, the status of whole genomic damage via comet assay, levels of apoptotic cells via annexin V/PI staining, ROS generation via DCFH-DA staining, an assay of antioxidant enzymes catalase, superoxide dismutase, and antioxidant GSH, via ELISA analyses of apoptotic markers caspase-3, 8, 9, Bax, Bcl-2, CytC, and p53, PI3/AKT/mTOR pathway. Our results collectively showed albumin-chlorogenic acid NPs induced apoptosis via p53-dependent and PI3/AKT/mTOR inhibition in MDA-MB-435s cells. Our results denote albumin-chlorogenic acid NPs can be used as an effective candidate for anti-microbial and anti-cancer applications; however, further in vivo confirmatory studies are warranted.

Therapeutic Potential of Albumin Nanoparticles Encapsulated Visnagin in MDA-MB-468 Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells

Breast cancer is among the most recurrent malignancies, and its prevalence is rising. With only a few treatment options available, there is an immediate need to search for better alternatives. In this regard, nanotechnology has been applied to develop potential chemotherapeutic techniques, particularly for cancer therapy. Specifically, albumin-based nanoparticles are a developing platform for the administration of diverse chemotherapy drugs owing to their biocompatibility and non-toxicity. Visnagin, a naturally derived furanochromone, treats cancers, epilepsy, angina, coughs, and inflammatory illnesses. In the current study, the synthesis and characterization of albumin visnagin (AV) nanoparticles (NPs) using a variety of techniques such as transmission electron microscopy, UV-visible, Fourier transform infrared, energy dispersive X-ray composition analysis, field emission scanning electron microscopy, photoluminescence, X-Ray diffraction, and dynamic light scattering analyses have been carried out. The MTT test, dual AO/EB, DCFH-DA, Annexin-V-FITC/PI, Propidium iodide staining techniques as well as analysis of apoptotic proteins, antioxidant enzymes, and PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling analysis was performed to examine the NPs' efficacy to suppress MDA-MB-468 cell lines. The NPs decreased cell viability increased the amount of ROS in the cells, disrupted membrane integrity, decreased the level of antioxidant enzymes, induced cell cycle arrest, and activated the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling cascade, ultimately leading to cell death. Thus, AV NPs possesses huge potential to be employed as a strong anticancer therapy alternative.

Synthesis, Characterization, and Antimicrobial and Antiproliferative Effects of CuO-TiO2-Chitosan-Escin Nanocomposites on Human Leukemic MOLT4 Cells

Nanocomposites comprised of CuO-TiO2-chitosan-escin, which has adjustable physicochemical properties, provide a solution for therapeutic selectivity in cancer treatment. By controlling the intrinsic signaling primarily through the mitochondrial signaling pathway, we desired nanocomposites with enhanced anticancer activity by containing CuO-TiO2-chitosan-escin. The metal oxides CuO and TiO2, the natural polymer chitosan, and a phytochemical compound escin were combined to form CuO-TiO2-chitosan-escin nanocomposites. The synthesized nanocomposites were confirmed and characterized using FTIR spectroscopy, TEM, and UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy. A human leukemia cell line (MOLT-4) was used to assess the efficacy and selectivity of nanocomposites. Based on a cytotoxicity study, CuO-TiO2-chitosan-escin nanocomposites had inhibition concentrations (IC50) of 13.68, 8.9, and 7.14 µg/mL against human T lymphoblast cells after 24, 48, and 72 h of incubation, respectively. Compared with untreated MOLT-4 cells, CuO-TiO2-chitosan-escin nanocomposite-treated cells significantly increased (p < 0.05) caspase-3, -8, and -9 and decreased the levels of antioxidant enzymes GR, SOD, and GSH. Furthermore, MDA for lipid peroxidase and ROS levels significantly increased (p < 0.05) in the treated cells than in the untreated cells. Remarkably, CuO-TiO2-chitosan-escin nanocomposite-mediated control of cell cycles were mainly achieved through the activation of caspase-3, -8, and -9.

Structural, Optical, Antibacterial, and Anticancer Properties of Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles Prepared by Green Synthesis Using Morinda citrifolia Leaves Extract

Currently, new advancements in the area of nanotechnology opened up new prospects in the field of medicine that could provide us with a solution for numerous medical complications. Although a several varieties of nanoparticles is being explored to be used as nanomedicines, cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO2 NPs) are the most attractive due to their biocompatibility and their switchable oxidation state (+3 and +4) or in other words the ability to act as prooxidant and antioxidant depending on the pH condition. Green synthesis of nanoparticles is preferred to make it more economical, eco-friendly, and less toxic. The aim of our study here is to formulate the CeO2 NPs (CeO2 NPs) using Morinda citrifolia (Noni) leaf extract and study its optical, structural, antibacterial, and anticancer abilities. Their optical and structural characterization was accomplished by employing X-ray diffractography (XRD), TEM, EDAX, FTIR, UV-vis, and photoluminescence assays. Our CeO2 NPs expressed strong antibacterial effects against Gram-positive S. aureus and S. pneumonia in addition to Gram-negative E. coli and K. pneumonia when compared with amoxicillin. The anticancer properties of the green synthesized CeO2 NPs against human acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) MOLT-4 cells were further explored by the meticulous study of their ability to diminish cancer cell viability (cytotoxicity), accelerate apoptosis, escalate intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, decline the mitochondria membrane potential (MMP) level, modify the cell adhesion, and shoot up the activation of proapoptotic markers, caspase-3, -8, and -9, in the tumor cells. Altogether, the outcomes demonstrated that our green synthesized CeO2 NPs are an excellent candidate for alternative cancer therapy.

Synthesis of Zinc Oxide (ZnO)-Titanium Dioxide (TiO2)-Chitosan-Farnesol Nanocomposites and Assessment of Their Anticancer Potential in Human Leukemic MOLT-4 Cell Line

Leukemia is the most prevalent cancer in children and one of the most common and deadly cancers that affect adults. Several metal oxide nanoparticles, biopolymers, and phytochemicals have been discovered to target cancer cells selectively while inflicting low to no damage to healthy cells. Among the existing nanoparticle synthesis methodologies, biologically synthesized nanoparticles using phytochemicals have emerged as a straightforward, economical, and environmentally sound strategy. The synergistic antitumor potential of ZnO-TiO2-chitosan-farnesol nanocomposites (NCs) against leukemia MOLT-4 cells was investigated in the current study. After synthesizing the NCs, characterization of the same was carried out using XRD, DLS, FESEM, TEM, PL, EDX, and FTIR spectroscopy. To analyze its anticancer activity, MOLT-4 cells were cultured and treated at diverse dosages of NCs. The cell viability upon treatment was examined by MTT assay. The morphological and nuclear modifications were observed by dual staining. ROS and MMP levels were observed by DCFH-DA staining and Rh-123 dye, respectively. Furthermore, the caspase 3, 8, and 9 levels were examined by performing ELISA. The XRD patterns exhibited a hexagonal structure of the NCs. In the DLS spectrum, the hydrodynamic diameter of the NCs was observed to be 126.2 nm. The electrostatic interface between the ZnO-TiO2-chitosan-farnesol NCs was confirmed by the FTIR spectra. A significant loss of cell viability in a dosage-dependent trend confirmed the cytotoxic effect of the NCs. An elevated ROS level and MMP depletion suggested apoptosis-associated cell death via the intrinsic pathway, which was confirmed by elevated expressions of caspase 3, 8, and 9 markers. Thus, the results showed that the synthesized NCs demonstrated a remarkable anticancer potential against leukemic cells and can be potentially valuable in cancer treatments. The findings from this study conclude that this is a new approach for modifying the physicochemical characteristics of ZnO-TiO2-chitosan-farnesol composites to increase their properties and synergistically exhibit anticancer properties in human leukemic cancer cells.

CuO-TiO2-Chitosan-Berbamine Nanocomposites Induce Apoptosis through the Mitochondrial Pathway with the Expression of P53, BAX, and BCL-2 in the Human K562 Cancer Cell Line

In this study, cells from human Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (K562) were cultivated with CuO-TiO2-Chitosan-Berbamine nanocomposites. We examined nanocomposites using XRD, DLS, FESEM, TEM, PL, EDAX, and FTIR spectroscopy, as well as MTT for cytotoxicity, and AO/EtBr for apoptotic morphology assessment. The rate of apoptosis and cell cycle arrests was determined using flow cytometry. Flow cytometry was also employed to identify pro- and antiapoptotic proteins such as Bcl2, Bad, Bax, P53, and Cyt C. The FTIR spectrum revealed that the CuO-TiO2-Chitosan-Berbamine nanocomposites were electrostatically interlocked. The nanocomposites' XRD signals revealed a hexagonal shape. In the DLS spectrum, nanocomposites were found to have a hydrodynamic diameter. As a result of their cytotoxic action, nanocomposites displayed concentration-dependent cytotoxicity. The nanocomposites, like Doxorubicin, caused cell cycle phase arrest in K562 cells. After treatment with IC50 concentrations of CuO-TiO2-Chitosan-Berbamine nanocomposites and Doxorubicin, a substantial percentage of cells were in G2/M stage arrest. Caspase-3, -7, -8, -9, Bax, Bad, Cyt C, and P53 expression were considerably enhanced in K562 cells, whereas Bcl2 expression was decreased, indicating that these cells may have therapeutic potential against human blood cancer/leukemia-derived disorders. As a result, the nanocomposites demonstrated outstanding anticancer potential against leukemic cells. CuO-TiO2-Chitosan-Berbamine, according to our findings.

Rescue of photoreceptor with human mesenchyme stem cell and human mesenchyme stem cell expressing erythropoietin in total degeneration of retina animal model

Purpose:

This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of human-derived umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (HDUMSC) and human-derived umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells expressing erythropoietin (HDUMSC-EPO) to rescue total degenerated retina in a rat model.

Methods:

The study included four treatment groups, namely negative control using normal saline (HBSS) injection, positive control using sodium iodide 60 mg/kg (SI), SI treated with HDUMSC, and SI treated with HDUMSC-EPO given via subretinal and intravenous routes, to test the efficacy of retinal regeneration following SI-induced retinal degeneration. Retinal function in both phases was tested via electroretinography (ERG) and histological staining examining the outer nuclear layer (ONL).

Results:

There was a statistically significant result (P < 0.05) in the SI treated with HDUMSC-EPO only when comparing day 11 (mean = 23.6 μv), day 18 (mean = 25.2 μv), day 26 (mean = 26.3 μv), and day 32 (mean = 28.2 μv) to the b-wave ERG on day 4 rescue injection day (mean = 12.5 μv). The SI treated with HDUMSC-EPO showed significant improvement in b-wave ERG readings in the Sprague–Dawley (SD) rat but did not restore baseline readings prior to degeneration (day 0). Both treated groups’ ONL thicknesses did not show significant changes compared to the negative control group (HBSS) following rescue therapy.

Conclusion:

Total retinal degeneration following intravenous SI injection was observed at 60 mg/kg. SI treated with HDUMSC and HDUMSC-EPO showed no regenerative potential compared to baseline in SI-induced total retina degeneration on ERG or histology, whereas SI treated with HDUMSC-EPO group showed a substantial increase in b-wave ERG amplitude over time.

Hematological Findings among COVID-19 Patients Attending King Khalid Hospital at Najran, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

COVID-19 is a global pandemic viral infection that has affected millions worldwide. Limited data is available on the effect of COVID-19 on hematological parameters in Saudi Arabia. This study is aimed at examining the role of hematological parameters among COVID-19 patients admitted to King Khalid Hospital in Najran, Saudi Arabia. This is a retrospective, hospital-based study of 514 cases who were recruited during August to October 2020. 257 COVID-19 patients formed the study group, and a further 257 negative subjects formed the control group. Anemia was significantly elevated in positive subjects over controls (respectively, 64.2% and 35.8%), with patients 2.5 times more likely to be anemic (p < 0.01). Thrombocytopenia was higher in patients over controls (respectively, 62% and 38%), with patients ~1.7 times more likely to be thrombocytopenic (p < 0.01). Moreover, leukopenia was significantly higher in patients over controls (respectively, 71% and 29%), with positive subjects ~2.6 times more likely to be leukopenic. Our study results indicate that mild anemia associated with leukopenia may have diagnostic value for COVID-19. Careful assessment of hematological parameters, at baseline and throughout the disease path, will assist physicians in formulating personalized approaches to treatment and promptly offer intensive care to those in greater need.

Camptothecin Encapsulated in β-Cyclodextrin-EDTA-Fe3O4 Nanoparticles Induce Metabolic Reprogramming Repair in HT29 Cancer Cells through Epigenetic Modulation: A Bioinformatics Approach

Cancer progresses through a distinctive reprogramming of metabolic pathways directed by genetic and epigenetic modifications. The hardwired changes induced by genetic mutations are resilient, while epigenetic modifications are softwired and more vulnerable to therapeutic intervention. Colon cancer is no different. This gives us the need to explore the mechanism as an attractive therapeutic target to combat colon cancer cells. We have previously established the enhanced therapeutic efficacy of a newly formulated camptothecin encapsulated in β-cyclodextrin-EDTA-Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles (CPT-CEF) in colon cancer cells. We furthered this study by carrying out RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) to underscore specific regulatory signatures in the CPT-CEF treated versus untreated HT29 cells. In the study, we identified 95 upregulated and 146 downregulated genes spanning cellular components and molecular and metabolic functions. We carried out extensive bioinformatics analysis to harness genes potentially involved in epigenetic modulation as either the cause or effect of metabolic rewiring exerted by CPT-CEF. Significant downregulation of 13 genes involved in the epigenetic modulation and 40 genes from core metabolism was identified. Three genes, namely, DNMT-1, POLE3, and PKM-2, were identified as the regulatory overlap between epigenetic drivers and metabolic reprogramming in HT29 cells. Based on our results, we propose a possible mechanism that intercepts the two functional axes, namely epigenetic control, and metabolic modulation via CPT-CEF in colon cancer cells, which could skew cancer-induced metabolic deregulation towards metabolic repair. Thus, the study provides avenues for further validation of transcriptomic changes affected by these deregulated genes at epigenetic level, and ultimately may be harnessed as targets for regenerating normal metabolism in colon cancer with better treatment potential, thereby providing new avenues for colon cancer therapy.

Treatment of HT29 Human Colorectal Cancer Cell Line with Nanocarrier-Encapsulated Camptothecin Reveals Histone Modifier Genes in the Wnt Signaling Pathway as Important Molecular Cues for Colon Cancer Targeting

Cancer cells are able to proliferate in an unregulated manner. There are several mechanisms involved that propel such neoplastic transformations. One of these processes involves bypassing cell death through changes in gene expression and, consequently, cell growth. This involves a complex epigenetic interaction within the cell, which drives it towards oncogenic transformations. These epigenetic events augment cellular growth by potentially altering chromatin structures and influencing key gene expressions. Therapeutic mechanisms have been developed to combat this by taking advantage of the underlying oncogenic mechanisms through chemical modulation. Camptothecin (CPT) is an example of this type of drug. It is a selective topoisomerase I inhibitor that is effective against many cancers, such as colorectal cancer. Previously, we successfully formulated a magnetic nanocarrier-conjugated CPT with β-cyclodextrin and iron NPs (Fe₃O₄) cross-linked using EDTA (CPT-CEF). Compared to CPT alone, it boasts higher efficacy due to its selective targeting and increased solubility. In this study, we treated HT29 colon cancer cells with CPT-CEF and attempted to investigate the cytotoxic effects of the formulation through an epigenetic perspective. By using RNA-Seq, several differentially expressed genes were obtained (p < 0.05). Enrichr was then used for the over-representation analysis, and the genes were compared to the epigenetic roadmap and histone modification database. The results showed that the DEGs had a high correlation with epigenetic modifications involving histone H3 acetylation. Furthermore, a subset of these genes was shown to be associated with the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, which is highly upregulated in a large number of cancer cells. These genes could be investigated as downstream therapeutic targets against the uncontrolled proliferation of cancer cells. Further interaction analysis of the identified genes with the key genes of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in colorectal cancer identified the direct interactors and a few transcription regulators. Further analysis in cBioPortal confirmed their genetic alterations and their distribution across patient samples. Thus, the findings of this study reveal that colorectal cancer could be reversed by treatment with the CPT-CEF nanoparticle-conjugated nanocarrier through an epigenetic mechanism.

Corrigendum: Transplanted Erythropoietin-Expressing Mesenchymal Stem Cells Promote Pro-survival Gene Expression and Protect Photoreceptors From Sodium Iodate-Induced Cytotoxicity in a Retinal Degeneration Model

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.652017.].

Hypoxia in Bone and Oxygen Releasing Biomaterials in Fracture Treatments Using Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy: A Review

Bone fractures have a high degree of severity. This is usually a result of the physical trauma of diseases that affect bone tissues, such as osteoporosis. Due to its highly vascular nature, the bone is in a constant state of remodeling. Although those of younger ages possess bones with high regenerative potential, the impact of a disrupted vasculature can severely affect the recovery process and cause osteonecrosis. This is commonly seen in the neck of femur, scaphoid, and talus bone. In recent years, mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy has been used to aid in the regeneration of afflicted bone. However, the cut-off in blood supply due to bone fractures can lead to hypoxia-induced changes in engrafted MSCs. Researchers have designed several oxygen-generating biomaterials and yielded varying degrees of success in enhancing tissue salvage and preserving cellular metabolism under ischemia. These can be utilized to further improve stem cell therapy for bone repair. In this review, we touch on the pathophysiology of these bone fractures and review the application of oxygen-generating biomaterials to further enhance MSC-mediated repair of fractures in the three aforementioned parts of the bone.

Nanoparticle-Encapsulated Camptothecin: Epigenetic Modulation in DNA Repair Mechanisms in Colon Cancer Cells

Molecular crosstalk between the cellular epigenome and genome converge as a synergistic driver of oncogenic transformations. Besides other pathways, epigenetic regulatory circuits exert their effect towards cancer progression through the induction of DNA repair deficiencies. We explored this mechanism using a camptothecin encapsulated in β-cyclodextrin-EDTA-Fe3O4 nanoparticles (CPT-CEF)-treated HT29 cells model. We previously demonstrated that CPT-CEF treatment of HT29 cells effectively induces apoptosis and cell cycle arrest, stalling cancer progression. A comparative transcriptome analysis of CPT-CEF-treated versus untreated HT29 cells indicated that genes controlling mismatch repair, base excision repair, and homologues recombination were downregulated in these cancer cells. Our study demonstrated that treatment with CPT-CEF alleviated this repression. We observed that CPT-CEF exerts its effect by possibly affecting the DNA repair mechanism through epigenetic modulation involving genes of HMGB1, APEX1, and POLE3. Hence, we propose that CPT-CEF could be a DNA repair modulator that harnesses the cell's epigenomic plasticity to amend DNA repair deficiencies in cancer cells.

Mechanisms and Impact of Biofilms and Targeting of Biofilms Using Bioactive Compounds-A Review

Biofilms comprising aggregates of microorganisms or multicellular communities have been a major issue as they cause resistance against antimicrobial agents and biofouling. To date, numerous biofilm-forming microorganisms have been identified, which have been shown to result in major effects including biofouling and biofilm-related infections. Quorum sensing (which describes the cell communication within biofilms) plays a vital role in the regulation of biofilm formation and its virulence. As such, elucidating the various mechanisms responsible for biofilm resistance (including quorum sensing) will assist in developing strategies to inhibit and control the formation of biofilms in nature. Employing biological control measures (such as the use of bioactive compounds) in targeting biofilms is of great interest since they naturally possess antimicrobial activity among other favorable attributes and can also possibly act as potent antibiofilm agents. As an effort to re-establish the current notion and understanding of biofilms, the present review discuss the stages involved in biofilm formation, the factors contributing to its development, the effects of biofilms in various industries, and the use of various bioactive compounds and their strategies in biofilm inhibition.

Lipofection of Single Guide RNA Targeting MMP8 Decreases Proliferation and Migration in Lung Adenocarcinoma Cells

Background and Objectives: Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) have been implicated as major determinants of tumour growth and metastasis, which are considered two of the main hallmarks of cancer. The interaction of MMP8 and other signalling molecules within and adjacent tumoral tissues, including immune cells, are rather elusive, particularly of adenocarcinoma cell type. In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of MMP8 in non-small cell lung cancer proliferation and invasiveness potential. Materials and Methods: We individually lipofected with two different single guide RNA (sgRNAs) that specifically targeted on MMP8, with CRISPR-Cas 9 protein into the cells. Results: Our results clearly indicated that the lipofection of these complexes could lead to reduced ability of A549 cells to survive and proliferate to form colonies. In addition, when compared to non-transfected cells, the experimental cell groups receiving sgRNAs demonstrated relatively decreased migration rate, hence, wider wound gaps in scratch assay. The quantitative real time-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) demonstrated significant reduction in the MAP-K, survivin and PI3-K gene expression. MMP8 might have protective roles over tumour growth and spread in our body. Conclusions: The delivery of sgRNAs targeting on the MMP8 gene could induce tumour cell death and arrest cell migratory activity.

Stem Cell Therapy in Dengue Virus-Infected BALB/C Mice Improves Hepatic Injury

Extensive clinical efforts have been made to control the severity of dengue diseases; however, the dengue morbidity and mortality have not declined. Dengue virus (DENV) can infect and cause systemic damage in many organs, resulting in organ failure. Here, we present a novel report showing a tailored stem-cell-based therapy that can aid in viral clearance and rescue liver cells from further damage during dengue infection. We administered a combination of hematopoietic stem cells and endothelial progenitor cells in a DENV-infected BALB/c mouse model and found that delivery of this cell cocktail had improved their liver functions, confirmed by hematology, histopathology, and next-generation sequencing. These stem and progenitor cells can differentiate into target cells and repair the damaged tissues. In addition, the regime can regulate endothelial proliferation and permeability, modulate inflammatory reactions, enhance extracellular matrix production and angiogenesis, and secrete an array of growth factors to create an enhanced milieu for cell reparation. No previous study has been published on the treatment of dengue infection using stem cells combination. In conclusion, dengue-induced liver damage was rescued by administration of stem cell therapy, with less apoptosis and improved repair and regeneration in the dengue mouse model.

Lung development, repair and cancer: A study on the role of MMP20 gene in adenocarcinoma

Multiple matrix metalloproteinases have significant roles in tissue organization during lung development, and repair. Imbalance of proteinases may lead to chronic inflammation, changes in tissue structure, and are also highly associated to cancer development. The role of MMP20 is not well studied in lung organogenesis, however, it was previously shown to be present at high level in lung adenocarcinoma. The current study aimed to identify the functional properties of MMP20 on cell proliferation and motility in a lung adenocarcinoma in vitro cell model, and relate the interaction of MMP20 with other molecular signalling pathways in the lung cells after gaining tumoral properties. In this study, two different single guide RNA (sgRNAs) that specifically targeted on MMP20 sites were transfected into human lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells by using CRISPR-Cas method. Following that, the changes of PI3-K, survivin, and MAP-K mRNA gene expression were determined by Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR). The occurrence of cell death was also examined by Acridine Orange/Propidium Iodide double staining. Meanwhile, the motility of the transfected cells was evaluated by wound healing assay. All the data were compared with non-transfected cells as a control group. Our results demonstrated that the transfection of the individual sgRNAs significantly disrupted the proliferation of the A549 cell line through suppression in the gene expression of PI3-K, survivin, and MAP-K. When compared to non-transfected cells, both experimental cell groups showed reduction in the migration rate, as reflected by the wider gaps in the wound healing assay. The current study provided preliminary evidence that MMP20 could have regulatory role on stemness and proliferative genes in the lung tissues and affect the cell motility. It also supports the notion that targeting MMP20 could be a potential treatment mode for halting cancer progression.

Transplanted Erythropoietin-Expressing Mesenchymal Stem Cells Promote Pro-survival Gene Expression and Protect Photoreceptors From Sodium Iodate-Induced Cytotoxicity in a Retinal Degeneration Model

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) are highly regarded as a potential treatment for retinal degenerative disorders like retinitis pigmentosa and age-related macular degeneration. However, donor cell heterogeneity and inconsistent protocols for transplantation have led to varied outcomes in clinical trials. We previously showed that genetically-modifying MSCs to express erythropoietin (MSC^EPO) improved its regenerative capabilities in vitro. Hence, in this study, we sought to prove its potential in vivo by transplanting MSCs^EPO in a rat retinal degeneration model and analyzing its retinal transcriptome using RNA-Seq. Firstly, MSCs^EPO were cultured and expanded before being intravitreally transplanted into the sodium iodate-induced model. After the procedure, electroretinography (ERG) was performed bi-weekly for 30 days. Histological analyses were performed after the ERG assessment. The retina was then harvested for RNA extraction. After mRNA-enrichment and library preparation, paired-end RNA-Seq was performed. Salmon and DESeq2 were used to process the output files. The generated dataset was then analyzed using over-representation (ORA), functional enrichment (GSEA), and pathway topology analysis tools (SPIA) to identify enrichment of key pathways in the experimental groups. The results showed that the MSC^EPO-treated group had detectable ERG waves (P <0.05), which were indicative of successful phototransduction. The stem cells were also successfully detected by immunohistochemistry 30 days after intravitreal transplantation. An initial over-representation analysis revealed a snapshot of immune-related pathways in all the groups but was mainly overexpressed in the MSC group. A subsequent GSEA and SPIA analysis later revealed enrichment in a large number of biological processes including phototransduction, regeneration, and cell death (P_adj <0.05). Based on these pathways, a set of pro-survival gene expressions were extracted and tabulated. This study provided an in-depth transcriptomic analysis on the MSC^EPO-treated retinal degeneration model as well as a profile of pro-survival genes that can be used as candidates for further genetic enhancement studies on stem cells.

Mitigation of Sodium Iodate-Induced Cytotoxicity in Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells in vitro by Transgenic Erythropoietin-Expressing Mesenchymal Stem Cells

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) have shown promise in restoring the vision of patients in clinical trials. However, this therapeutic effect is not observed in every treated patient and is possibly due to the inefficacies of cell delivery and high cell death following transplantation. Utilizing erythropoietin can significantly enhance the regenerative properties of MSCs and hence improve retinal neuron survivability in oxidative stress. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the efficacy of conditioned medium (CM) obtained from transgenic human erythropoietin-expressing MSCs (MSC _EPO ) in protecting human retinal pigment epithelial cells from sodium iodate (NaIO₃)-induced cell death. Human MSC and MSC _EPO were first cultured to obtain conditioned media (CM). The IC₅₀ of NaIO₃ in the ARPE-19 culture was then determined by an MTT assay. After that, the efficacy of both MSC-CM and MSC-CM _EPO in ARPE-19 cell survival were compared at 24 and 48 h after NaIO₃ treatment with MTT. The treatment effects on mitochondrial membrane potential was then measured by a JC-1 flow cytometric assay. The MTT results indicated a corresponding increase in cell survivability (5-58%) in the ARPE-19 cell cultures. In comparison to MSC-CM, the use of conditioned medium collected from the MSC-CM _EPO further enhanced the rate of ARPE-19 survivability at 24 h (P < 0.05) and 48 h (P < 0.05) in the presence of NaIO₃. Furthermore, more than 90% were found viable with the JC-1 assay after MSC-CM _EPO treatment, showing a positive implication on the mitochondrial dynamics of ARPE-19. The MSC-CM _EPO provided an enhanced mitigating effect against NaIO₃-induced ARPE-19 cell death over that of MSC-CM alone during the early phase of the treatment, and it may act as a future therapy in treating retinal degenerative diseases.

Computational drug screening against the SARS-CoV-2 Saudi Arabia isolates through a multiple-sequence alignment approach

COVID-19 is a rapidly emerging infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus currently spreading throughout the world. To date, there are no specific drugs formulated for it, and researchers around the globe are racing against the clock to investigate potential drug candidates. The repurposing of existing drugs in the market represents an effective and economical strategy commonly utilized in such investigations. In this study, we used a multiple-sequence alignment approach for preliminary screening of commercially-available drugs on SARS-CoV sequences from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) isolates. The viral genomic sequences from KSA isolates were obtained from GISAID, an open access repository housing a wide variety of epidemic and pandemic virus data. A phylogenetic analysis of the present 164 sequences from the KSA provinces was carried out using the MEGA X software, which displayed high similarity (around 98%). The sequence was then analyzed using the VIGOR4 genome annotator to construct its genomic structure. Screening of existing drugs was carried out by mining data based on viral gene expressions from the ZINC database. A total of 73 hits were generated. The viral target orthologs were mapped to the SARS-CoV-2 KSA isolate sequence by multiple sequence alignment using CLUSTAL OMEGA, and a list of 29 orthologs with purchasable drug information was generated. The results showed that the SARS CoV replicase polyprotein 1a had the highest sequence similarity at 79.91%. Through ZINC data mining, tanshinones were found to have high binding affinities to this target. These compounds could be ideal candidates for SARS-CoV-2. Other matches ranged between 27 and 52%. The results of this study would serve as a significant endeavor towards drug discovery that would increase our chances of finding an effective treatment or prevention against COVID19.

Metabolic utilization of human osteoblast cell line hFOB 1.19 under normoxic and hypoxic conditions: A phenotypic microarray analysis

Osteoblasts play an important role in bone regeneration and repair. The hypoxia condition in bone occurs when bone undergoes fracture, and this will trigger a series of biochemical and mechanical changes to enable bone repair. Hence, it is interesting to observe the metabolites and metabolism changes when osteoblasts are exposed to hypoxic condition. This study has looked into the response of human osteoblast hFOB 1.19 under normoxic and hypoxic conditions by observing the cell growth and utilization of metabolites via Phenotype MicroArrays™ under these two different oxygen concentrations. The cell growth of hFOB 1.19 under hypoxic condition showed better growth compared to hFOB 1.19 under normal condition. In this study, osteoblast used glycolysis as the main pathway to produce energy as hFOB 1.19 in both hypoxic and normoxic conditions showed cell growth in well containing dextrin, glycogen, maltotriose, D-maltose, D-glucose-6-phospate, D-glucose, D-mannose, D-Turanose, D-fructose-6-phosphate, D-galactose, uridine, adenosine, inosine and α-keto-glutaric acid. In hypoxia, the cells have utilized additional metabolites such as α-D-glucose-1-phosphate and D-fructose, indicating possible activation of glycogen synthesis and glycogenolysis to metabolize α-D-glucose-1-phosphate. Meanwhile, during normoxia, D-L-α-glycerol phosphate was used, and this implies that the osteoblast may use glycerol-3-phosphate shuttle and oxidative phosphorylation to metabolize glycerol-3-phosphate.

Leptospiral Infection, Pathogenesis and Its Diagnosis-A Review

Leptospirosis is a perplexing conundrum for many. In the existing literature, the pathophysiological mechanisms pertaining to leptospirosis is still not understood in full. Considered as a neglected tropical zoonotic disease, leptospirosis is culminating as a serious problem worldwide, seemingly existing as co-infections with various other unrelated diseases, including dengue and malaria. Misdiagnosis is also common as non-specific symptoms are documented extensively in the literature. This can easily lead to death, as the severe form of leptospirosis (Weil's disease) manifests as a complex of systemic complications, especially renal failure. The virulence of Leptospira sp. is usually attributed to the outer membrane proteins, including LipL32. With an armament of virulence factors at their disposal, their ability to easily adhere, invade and replicate within cells calls for a swift refinement in research progress to establish their exact pathophysiological framework. As an effort to reconstitute the current knowledge on leptospirosis, the basis of leptospiral infection, including its risk factors, classification, morphology, transmission, pathogenesis, co-infections and clinical manifestations are highlighted in this review. The various diagnostic techniques are also outlined with emphasis on their respective pros and cons.

Human Dental Pulp Stem Cells (DPSCs) Therapy in Rescuing Photoreceptors and Establishing a Sodium Iodate-Induced Retinal Degeneration Rat Model

BACKGROUND

Different methods have been used to inject stem cells into the eye for research. We previously explored the intravitreal route. Here, we investigate the efficacy of intravenous and subretinal-transplanted human dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) in rescuing the photoreceptors of a sodium iodate-induced retinal degeneration model.

METHODS

Three groups of Sprague Dawley rats were used: intervention, vehicle group and negative control groups (n = 6 in each). Intravenous injection of 60 mg/kg sodium iodate (day 0) induced retinal degeneration. On day 4 post-injection of sodium iodate, the rats in the intervention group received intravenous DPSC and subretinal DPSC in the right eye; rats in the vehicle group received subretinal Hank's balance salt solution and intravenous normal saline; while negative control group received nothing. Electroretinogram (ERG) was performed to assess the retinal function at day 0 (baseline), day 4, day 11, day 18, day 26, and day 32. By the end of the study at day 32, the rats were euthanized, and both their enucleated eyes were sent for histology.

RESULTS

No significant difference in maximal ERG a-wave (p = 0.107) and b-wave, (p = 0.153) amplitude was seen amongst the experimental groups. However, photopic 30 Hz flicker amplitude of the study eye showed significant differences in the 3 groups (p = 0.032). Within the intervention group, there was an improvement in 30 Hz flicker ERG response of all 6 treated right eyes, which was injected with subretinal DPSC; while the 30 Hz flicker ERG of the non-treated left eyes remained flat. Histology showed improved outer nuclear layer thickness in intervention group; however, findings were not significant compared to the negative and vehicle groups.

CONCLUSION

Combination of subretinal and intravenous injection of DPSCs may have potential to rescue cone function from a NaIO₃-induced retinal injury model.

Sagittal Jaw Relationship of Different Types of Cleft and Non-cleft Individuals

To investigate whether the craniofacial sagittal jaw relationship in patients with non-syndromic cleft differed from non-cleft (NC) individuals by artificial intelligence (A.I.)-driven lateral cephalometric (Late. Ceph.) analysis. The study group comprised 123 subjects with different types of clefts including 29 = BCLP (bilateral cleft lip and palate), 41 = UCLP (unilateral cleft lip and palate), 9 = UCLA (unilateral cleft lip and alveolus), 13 = UCL (unilateral cleft lip) and NC = 31. The mean age was 14.77 years. SNA, SNB, ANB angle and Wits appraisal was measured in lateral cephalogram using a new innovative A.I driven Webceph software. Two-way ANOVA and multiple-comparison statistics tests were applied to see the differences between gender and among different types of clefts vs. NC individuals. A significant decrease (p < 0.005) in SNA, ANB, Wits appraisal was observed in different types of clefts vs. NC individuals. SNB (p > 0.005) showed insignificant variables in relation to type of clefts. No significant difference was also found in terms of gender in relation to any type of clefts and NC group. The present study advocates a decrease in sagittal development (SNA, ANB and Wits appraisal) in different types of cleft compared to NC individuals.

Hypoxic-Mediated Oxidative Stress Condition and Hydroxyapatite-Inducing Osteogenic Differentiation of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells: A Mathematical Modeling Study

Avascular necrosis (AVN) of the bones remains a major clinical challenge. Fractures in the talus, the scaphoid, and the neck of the femur are especially challenging to heal due to the low blood vessel network and the lack of collateral blood supply. These fractures are associated with high rates of nonunion and increased infections that require repeated operations. Conventional treatments by autografting or allografting bone replacement and synthetic bone implants have limitations, including the invasiveness of operative procedures, tissue supply insufficiency, and the risk of host rejection. The advancement in tissue engineering has revealed the potential of stem cells as restorative agents for bone injuries. The administration of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) into the talus, the scaphoid, and the neck of the femur could produce enhanced osteogenesis via the manipulation of MSC culture conditions. In this study, we used hydroxyapatite as the nanomaterial, and hypoxic milieu to enhance MSC differentiation capacity into the osteogenic lineage, allowing for more rapid and efficient bone cell replacement treatment. Our results demonstrate 1% oxygen and 12.5 μg/mL of hydroxyapatite (HAP) as the optimal conditions to incorporate the osteogenic medium for the osteogenic induction of MSCs. We also established a proof of concept that the addition of HAP and hypoxic conditions could augment the osteoinductive capacity of MSCs. We also developed an accurate mathematical model to support future bone cell replacement therapy.

Dental pulp stem cells therapy overcome photoreceptor cell death and protects the retina in a rat model of sodium iodate-induced retinal degeneration

Blindness and vision loss contribute to irreversible retinal degeneration, and cellular therapy for retinal cell replacement has the potential to treat individuals who have lost light sensitive photoreceptors in the retina. Retinal cells are well characterized in function, and are a subject of interest in cellular replacement therapy of photoreceptors and the retinal pigment epithelium. However, retinal cell transplantation is limited by various factors, including the choice of potential stem cell source that can show variability in plasticity as well as host tissue integration. Dental pulp is one such source that contains an abundance of stem cells. In this study we used dental pulp-derived mesenchymal stem cells (DPSCs) to mitigate sodium iodate (NaIO₃) insult in a rat model of retinal degeneration. Sprague-Dawley rats were first given an intravitreal injection of 3 × 10⁵ DPSCs as well as a single systemic administration of NaIO₃ (40 mg/kg). Electroretinography (ERG) was performed for the next two months and was followed-up by histological analysis. The ERG recordings showed protection of DPSC-treated retinas within 4 weeks, which was statistically significant (* P ≤ .05) compared to the control. Retinal thickness of the control was also found to be thinner (*** P ≤ .001). The DPSCs were found integrated in the photoreceptor layer through immunohistochemical staining. Our findings showed that DPSCs have the potential to moderate retinal degeneration. In conclusion, DPSCs are a potential source of stem cells in the field of eye stem cell therapy due to its protective effects against retinal degeneration.

Genetically-modified human mesenchymal stem cells to express erythropoietin enhances differentiation into retinal photoreceptors: An in-vitro study

Dysfunctional or death of retinal photoreceptors is an irreversible phenomenon that is closely associated with a broad range of retinal degenerative diseases, such as retinitis pigmentosa and age-related macular degeneration (AMD), resulting in successive loss of visual function and blindness. In search for viable treatment for retinal degenerative diseases, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has demonstrated promising therapeutic capabilities to repair and replace damaged photoreceptor cells in both in vitro and in vivo conditions. Nevertheless, the dearth of MSC differentiation capacity into photoreceptors has limited its use in cell replacement therapy. Erythropoietin (EPO) has vital role in early neural retinal cell differentiation and demonstrated rescue potential on dying photoreceptor cells. Hence, we aimed to evaluate the differentiation capacity of MSCs into photoreceptor cells in the presence of human EPO protein. We derived the MSC from human Wharton's jelly of umbilical cord and transduced the cells with lentivirus particles encoding EPO and green fluorescent protein (GFP) as reporter gene. The transduced cells were selectively cultured and induced to differentiate into photoreceptors by exposing to photoreceptor differentiation cocktail. Our preliminary results showed that transduced cells exposed to induction medium had an enhanced differentiation capacity when compared to non-transduced cells. Our results demonstrated a novel strategy to increase the yield of in vitro photoreceptor differentiation and may be potentially useful in improving the efficiency of stem cell transplantation for ocular disorders.

Empowering Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Ocular Degenerative Disorders

Multipotent mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been employed in numerous pre-clinical and clinical settings for various diseases. MSCs have been used in treating degenerative disorders pertaining to the eye, for example, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, retinitis pigmentosa, diabetic retinopathy, and optic neuritis. Despite the known therapeutic role and mechanisms of MSCs, low cell precision towards the targeted area and cell survivability at tissue needing repair often resulted in a disparity in therapeutic outcomes. In this review, we will discuss the current and feasible strategy options to enhance treatment outcomes with MSC therapy. We will review the application of various types of biomaterials and advances in nanotechnology, which have been employed on MSCs to augment cellular function and differentiation for improving treatment of visual functions. In addition, several modes of gene delivery into MSCs and the types of associated therapeutic genes that are important for modulation of ocular tissue function and repair will be highlighted.

Modulatory and regenerative potential of transplanted bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells on rifampicin-induced kidney toxicity

INTRODUCTION

Anti-tuberculosis agent rifampicin is extensively used for its effectiveness. Possible complications of tuberculosis and prolonged rifampicin treatment include kidney damage; these conditions can lead to reduced efficiency of the affected kidney and consequently to other diseases. Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) can be used in conjunction with rifampicin to avert kidney damage; because of its regenerative and differentiating potentials into kidney cells. This research was designed to assess the modulatory and regenerative potentials of MSCs in averting kidney damage due to rifampicin-induced kidney toxicity in Wistar rats and their progenies. BMMSCs used in this research were characterized according to the guidelines of International Society for Cellular Therapy.

METHODS

The rats (male and female) were divided into three experimental groups, as follows: Group 1: control rats (4 males & 4 females); Group 2: rats treated with rifampicin only (4 males & 4 females); and Group 3: rats treated with rifampicin plus MSCs (4 males & 4 females). Therapeutic doses of rifampicin (9 mg/kg/day for 3-months) and MSCs infusions (twice/month for 3-months) were administered orally and intravenously respectively. At the end of the three months, the animals were bred together to determine if the effects would carry over to the next generation. Following breeding, the rats were sacrificed to harvest serum for biochemical analysis and the kidneys were also harvested for histological analysis and quantification of the glomeruli size, for the adult rats and their progenies.

RESULTS

The results showed some level of alterations in the biochemical indicators and histopathological damage in the rats that received rifampicin treatment alone, while the control and stem cells treated group showed apparently normal to nearly normal levels of both bio-indicators and normal histological architecture.

CONCLUSIONS

Intravenous administration of MSCs yielded sensible development, as seen from biochemical indicators, histology and the quantitative cell analysis, hence implying the modulatory and regenerative properties of MSCs.

Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells Expressing Erythropoietin Enhance Survivability of Retinal Neurons Against Oxidative Stress: An In Vitro Study

Retinal degeneration is a prominent feature in ocular disorders. In exploring possible treatments, Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) have been recognized to yield therapeutic role for retinal degenerative diseases. Studies have also displayed that erythropoietin (EPO) administration into degenerative retina models confers significant neuroprotective actions in limiting pathological cell death. In this study, we aimed to use MSCs to deliver EPO and to evaluate the ability of EPO to rescue retinal neurons from dying upon reactive oxidative stress induction. We derived human MSCs from Wharton's jelly (hWJMSCs) of the umbilical cord and cells were transduced with lentivirus particles encoding EPO and a reporter gene of green fluorescent protein (GFP). The supernatants of both transduced and non-transduced cells were collected and used as a pre-conditioning medium for Y79 retinoblastoma cells (retinal neuron cell line) following exposure to glutamate induction. Retinal cells exposed to glutamate showed reduced mitochondrial depolarization and enhanced improvement in cell viability when incubated with pre-conditioned media of transduced cells. Our results established a proof-of-concept that MSCs could be used as a candidate for the delivery of EPO therapeutic gene in the treatment of retinal degenerations.

Fruit-Derived Polysaccharides and Terpenoids: Recent Update on the Gastroprotective Effects and Mechanisms

Ulceration in the stomach develops in peptic ulcer disease when there is a loss of protective mucosal layers, particularly in Helicobacter pylori infection. Antibiotic therapy has failed to eradicate and impede the colonization of H. pylori. Despite given treatment, recurrent bleeding can occur and lead to death in the affected individual. The disease progression is also related to the non-steroidal inflammatory drug and stress. There are extensive research efforts to identify the gastroprotective property from various alkaloids, flavonoids, and tannins compounds from plants and marine. These natural products are believed to be safe for consumption. However, not much attention was given to summarize the carbohydrate and terpenoidal anti-ulcer compounds. Hence, this review will cover the possible mechanisms and information about acidic hydroxylans, arabinogalactan and rhamnogalacturon; and limonene, pinene, lupeol, citral, ursolic acid and nomilin to exemplify on the gastroprotective properties of polysaccharides and terpenoid, respectively, obtained from fruits. These compounds could act as a prebiotic to prevent the inhabitation of H. pylori, modulate the inflammation, suppress gastric cancer growth, and capable of stimulating the reparative mechanisms on the affected regions. Finally, this review provides the future research prospects of these natural compounds in an effort to develop new therapy for gastrointestinal tissue healing.

Novel triple‑positive markers identified in human non‑small cell lung cancer cell line with chemotherapy-resistant and putative cancer stem cell characteristics

Through the specific identification and direct targeting of cancer stem cells (CSCs), it is believed that a better treatment efficacy of cancer may be achieved. Hence, the present study aimed to identify a CSC subpopulation from adenocarcinoma cells (A549) as a model of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Initially, we sorted two subpopulations known as the triple-positive (EpCAM⁺/CD166⁺/CD44⁺) and triple-negative (EpCAM⁻/CD166⁻/CD44⁻) subpopulation using fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS). Sorted cells were subsequently evaluated for proliferation and chemotherapy-resistance using a viability assay and were further characterized for their clonal heterogeneity, self-renewal characteristics, cellular migration, alkaline dehydrogenase (ALDH) activity and the expression of stemness-related genes. According to our findings the triple-positive subpopulation revealed significantly higher (P<0.01) proliferation activity, exhibited better clonogenicity, was mostly comprised of holoclones and had markedly bigger (P<0.001) spheroid formation indicating a better self-renewal capacity. A relatively higher resistance to both 5-fluouracil and cisplatin with 80% expression of ALDH was observed in the triple-positive subpopulation, compared to only 67% detected in the triple-negative subpopulation indicated that high ALDH activity contributed to greater chemotherapy-resistance characteristics. Higher percentage of migrated cells was observed in the triple-positive subpopulation with 56% cellular migration being detected, compared to only 19% in the triple-negative subpopulation on day 2. This was similarly observed on day 3 in the triple-positive subpopulation with 36% higher cellular migration compared to the triple-negative subpopulation. Consistently, elevated levels of the stem cell genes such as REX1 and SSEA4 were also found in the triple-positive subpopulation indicating that the subpopulation displayed a strong characteristic of pluripotency. In conclusion, our study revealed that the triple-positive subpopulation demonstrated similar characteristics to CSCs compared to the triple-negative subpopulation. It also confirmed the feasibility of using the triple-positive (EpCAM⁺/CD166⁺/CD44⁺) marker as a novel candidate marker that may lead to the development of novel therapies targeting CSCs of NSCLC.

Recent Updates on Treatment of Ocular Microbial Infections by Stem Cell Therapy: A Review

Ocular microbial infection has emerged as a major public health crisis during the past two decades. A variety of causative agents can cause ocular microbial infections; which are characterized by persistent and destructive inflammation of the ocular tissue; progressive visual disturbance; and may result in loss of visual function in patients if early and effective treatments are not received. The conventional therapeutic approaches to treat vision impairment and blindness resulting from microbial infections involve antimicrobial therapy to eliminate the offending pathogens or in severe cases; by surgical methods and retinal prosthesis replacing of the infected area. In cases where there is concurrent inflammation, once infection is controlled, anti-inflammatory agents are indicated to reduce ocular damage from inflammation which ensues. Despite advances in medical research; progress in the control of ocular microbial infections remains slow. The varying level of ocular tissue recovery in individuals and the incomplete visual functional restoration indicate the chief limitations of current strategies. The development of a more extensive therapy is needed to help in healing to regain vision in patients. Stem cells are multipotent stromal cells that can give rise to a vast variety of cell types following proper differentiation protocol. Stem cell therapy shows promise in reducing inflammation and repairing tissue damage on the eye caused by microbial infections by its ability to modulate immune response and promote tissue regeneration. This article reviews a selected list of common infectious agents affecting the eye; which include fungi; viruses; parasites and bacteria with the aim of discussing the current antimicrobial treatments and the associated therapeutic challenges. We also provide recent updates of the advances in stem cells studies on sepsis therapy as a suggestion of optimum treatment regime for ocular microbial infections.

Micro-Computed Tomography Detection of Gold Nanoparticle-Labelled Mesenchymal Stem Cells in the Rat Subretinal Layer

Mesenchymal stem cells are widely used in many pre-clinical and clinical settings. Despite advances in molecular technology; the migration and homing activities of these cells in in vivo systems are not well understood. Labelling mesenchymal stem cells with gold nanoparticles has no cytotoxic effect and may offer suitable indications for stem cell tracking. Here, we report a simple protocol to label mesenchymal stem cells using 80 nm gold nanoparticles. Once the cells and particles were incubated together for 24 h, the labelled products were injected into the rat subretinal layer. Micro-computed tomography was then conducted on the 15th and 30th day post-injection to track the movement of these cells, as visualized by an area of hyperdensity from the coronal section images of the rat head. In addition, we confirmed the cellular uptake of the gold nanoparticles by the mesenchymal stem cells using transmission electron microscopy. As opposed to other methods, the current protocol provides a simple, less labour-intensive and more efficient labelling mechanism for real-time cell tracking. Finally, we discuss the potential manipulations of gold nanoparticles in stem cells for cell replacement and cancer therapy in ocular disorders or diseases.

Induced pluripotent stem cells from human hair follicle keratinocytes as a potential source for in vitro hair follicle cloning

Background

Human hair follicles are important for the renewal of new hairs and their development. The generation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from hair follicles is easy due to its accessibility and availability. The pluripotent cells derived from hair follicles not only have a higher tendency to re-differentiate into hair follicles, but are also more suited for growth in hair scalp tissue microenvironment.

Methods

In this study, human hair follicular keratinocytes were used to generate iPSCs, which were then further differentiated in vitro into keratinocytes. The derived iPSCs were characterised by using immunofluorescence staining, flow cytometry, and reverse-transcription PCR to check for its pluripotency markers expression.

Results

The iPSC clones expressed pluripotency markers such as TRA-1-60, TRA-1-81, SSEA4, OCT4, SOX2, NANOG, LEFTY, and GABRB. The well-formed three germ layers were observed during differentiation using iPSCs derived from hair follicles. The successful formation of keratioctyes from iPSCs was confirmed by the expression of cytokeratin 14 marker.

Discussion

Hair follicles represent a valuable keratinocytes source for in vitro hair cloning for use in treating hair balding or grafting in burn patients. Our significant findings in this report proved that hair follicles could be used to produce pluripotent stem cells and suggested that the genetic and micro-environmental elements of hair follicles might trigger higher and more efficient hair follicles re-differentiation.