Exploring the casual association between gut microbiome, circulating inflammatory cytokines and chronic pancreatitis: A Mendelian randomization analysis

It has been established that gut dysbiosis contributed to the pathogenesis of digestive disorders. We aimed to explore the causal relationships between intestinal microbiota, circulating inflammatory cytokines and chronic pancreatitis (CP). Summary statistics of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of intestinal microbiome was retrieved from the MiBioGen study and the GWAS data of 91 circulating inflammatory cytokines and CP were obtained from the GWAS catalog. The 2-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was performed between gut microbiota, circulating inflammatory cytokines and CP, in which the inverse variance weighted (IVW) method was regarded as the primary analysis approach. To prove the reliability of the causal estimations, multiple sensitivity analyses were utilized. IVW results revealed that genetically predicted 2 genera, including Sellimonas and Eubacteriumventriosumgroup, and plasm C-C motif chemokine 23 (CCL23) level were positively associated with CP risk, while genus Escherichia Shigella, Eubacteriumruminantiumgroup and Prevotella9, and plasma Caspase 8, Adenosine Deaminase (ADA), and SIR2-like protein 2 (SIRT2) level, demonstrated an ameliorative effect on CP. Leave-one-out analysis confirmed the robustness of the aforementioned causal effects and no significant horizontal pleiotropy or heterogeneity of the instrumental variables was detected. However, no association was found from the identified genera to the CP-related circulating inflammatory cytokines. Besides, the reverse MR analysis demonstrated no causal relationship from CP to the identified genera and circulating inflammatory cytokines. Taken together, our comprehensive analyses offer evidence in favor of the estimated causal connections from the 5 genus-level microbial taxa and 4 circulating inflammatory cytokines to CP risk, which may help to reveal the underlying pathogenesis of CP.

Association Between Plasma Levels of ANGPTL3, 4, 8 and the Most Common Additional Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Patients with Hypertension

Background

ANGPTL3, 4 and 8 have been reported to be involved in the regulation of lipid and glucose metabolism. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of ANGPTL3, 4, 8 in hypertensive patients with or without overweight/obesity, T2D, and hyperlipidemia, and the possible association between their expression and the status of the aforementioned comorbidities.

Methods

Plasma levels of ANGPTL3, 4, and 8 in 87 hospitalized patients with hypertension were measured using ELISA kits. Associations between circulating ANGPTLs levels and the most common additional cardiovascular risk factors were assessed using multivariate linear regression analyses. Pearson's correlation analysis was used to examine the association between ANGPTLs and clinical parameters.

Results

In the context of hypertension, (1) although not statistically significant, circulating ANGPTL3 levels were higher in the overweight/obese group than in the normal weight group; (2) circulating levels of ANGPTL3 and ANGPTL8 were significantly lower in patients with T2D than in non-diabetic patients; (3) circulating ANGPTL3 levels were significantly higher in the hyperlipidemic group than in the non-hyperlipidemic group. ANGPTL3 was associated with T2D and hyperlipidemia status, whereas ANGPTL8 was independently associated with T2D status. In addition, circulating ANGPTL3 levels were positively correlated with TC, TG, LDL-C, HCY, and ANGPTL8, and circulating ANGPTL4 levels were positively correlated with UACR and BNP.

Conclusion

Changes in circulating ANGPTL3 and ANGPTL8 levels have been observed in hypertensive patients with the most common additional cardiovascular risk factors, suggesting a role in the common comorbidities of hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Hypertensive patients with overweight/obesity or hyperlipidemia may benefit from therapies targeting ANGPTL3.

BAX as the mediator of C-MYC sensitizes acute lymphoblastic leukemia to TLR9 agonists

BACKGROUND

The prognosis of B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) has improved significantly with current first-line therapy, although the recurrence of B-ALL is still a problem. Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) agonists have shown good safety and efficiency as immune adjuvants. Apart from their immune regulatory effect, the direct effect of TLR9 agonists on cancer cells with TLR9 expression cannot be ignored. However, the direct effect of TLR9 agonists on B-ALL remains unknown.

METHODS

We discussed the relationship between TLR9 expression and the clinical characteristics of B-ALL and explored whether CpG 685 exerts direct apoptotic effect on B-ALL without inhibiting normal B-cell function. By using western blot, co-immunoprecipitation, immunofluorescence co-localization, and chromatin immunoprecipitation, we explored the mechanism of the apoptosis-inducing effect of CpG 685 in treating B-ALL cells. By exploring the mechanism of CpG 685 on B-ALL, the predictive biomarkers of the efficacy of CpG 685 in treating B-ALL were explored. These efficiencies were also confirmed in mouse model as well as clinical samples.

RESULTS

High expression of TLR9 in B-ALL patients showed good prognosis. C-MYC-induced BAX activation was the key to the effect of CpG oligodeoxynucleotides against B-ALL. C-MYC overexpression promoted P53 stabilization, enhanced Bcl-2 associated X-protein (BAX) activation, and mediated transcription of the BAX gene. Moreover, combination therapy using CpG 685 and imatinib, a BCR-ABL kinase inhibitor, could reverse resistance to CpG 685 or imatinib alone by promoting BAX activation and overcoming BCR-ABL1-independent PI3K/AKT activation.

CONCLUSION

TLR9 is not only a prognostic biomarker but also a potential target for B-ALL therapy. CpG 685 monotherapy might be applicable to Ph^- B-ALL patients with C-MYC overexpression and without BAX deletion. CpG 685 may also serve as an effective combinational therapy against Ph⁺ B-ALL.

Reconstructive types effect the prognosis of patients with tumors in the central and nipple portion of breast cancer? An analysis based on SEER database

Introduction

The impact of different types of reconstruction, including tissue reconstruction, implant reconstruction and combined reconstruction, on patient survival were not illustrated completely. We tried to investigate the impact of patient survival between different types of reconstruction.

Methods

We enrolled 6271 patients with tumors in the central and nipple portion of breast cancer from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. Factors associated with survival were identified by Cox regression analyses. The mortality rates per 1,000 person-years were calculated and compared. Survival curves were produced by Kaplan-Meier analyses using log-rank tests and cox proportional hazards regression quantified the risk of survival.

Results

Reconstructive types, region, insurance, race, marial status, grade, stage, ER status, PR status, HER-2 status and chemotherapy were significant prognostic factors associated with breast cancer-specific survival. The breast cancer mortality rates per 1,000 person-years for patients with tissue, implant and combined group were 26.01,21.54 and 19.83 which showed a downward trend. The HR of implant and combined reconstruction adjusted for demographic, pathological, and therapeutic data was 0.82 (95% CI: 0.67-1.00, p=0.052) and 0.73(95% CI:0.55-0.97, p=0.03) compared with tissue reconstruction.

Conclusion

Breast cancer-related mortality between implant reconstruction and autologous tissue reconstruction showed no significantly different, but the risk of BCSS of compound reconstruction was lower than tissue reconstruction.

Intrahepatic biliary cystadenoma: Confusion, experience, and lessons learned from our center

Background

Intrahepatic biliary cystadenoma (IBC) is a rare benign cystic tumor of the liver. So far, it has not been comprehensively understood, which causes incorrect diagnosis, treatment confusion, and even inappropriate treatment. Here, we reviewed clinical data of IBC patients in our center, shared our experiences and lessons learned, and improved the level of diagnosis and treatment.

Methods

The clinical data of 10 patients with pathologically diagnosed IBC, admitted to the Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery of the Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University from January, 2007, to January, 2022 were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

10 patients underwent surgery and were discharged successfully. Cyst morphology: multiple cysts: 6 cases (6/10), monocular cyst: four cases(4/10). Six patients (6/10) were diagnosed as IBC preoperatively and received hepatectomy. Four patients with monocular cyst IBC underwent intraoperative frozen section examination, except one case showed IBC; the rest were misdiagnosed as simple liver cyst. In three misdiagnosed patients, one underwent open left hepatectomy seven days after the initial operation. The other patient refused to undergo reoperation and required follow-up observation. The last patient could not tolerate hepatectomy due to insufficient residual liver volume and chose follow-up observation

Conclusion

For IBC, especially monocular IBC, it is easy to be misdiagnosed as simple hepatic cyst, which brings great confusion to clinical treatment. We propose strengthening communication with pathologists to deepen understanding of IBC. Attention should be paid to the cyst wall’s shape and the cyst fluid’s properties during the operation to avoid the missed diagnosis, misdiagnosis, or even improper operation. For suspicious cases, directly choose hepatectomy to avoid reoperation after thoroughly evaluating the patient’s condition.

Application of systemic treatment in conversion therapy options for liver cancer

Radical hepatectomy is the main treatment method to improve the prognosis of patients with intermediate and early-stage liver cancer. Most liver cancer patients in China are in the advanced stage at the initial diagnosis, losing the opportunity for surgical treatment. Therefore, it is essential to down-stage unresectable liver cancer to resectable liver cancer clinically, which is an important way to improve patients’ survival and a hotspot of current clinical research. In recent years, with the increase in effective treatment methods for liver cancer, the resection rate of conversion surgery for unresectable advanced liver cancer has been significantly improved, and a growing number of patients benefit from conversion therapy. This article mainly reviews the connotation of conversion therapy for liver cancer, the patient selection, the selection of conversion strategy, the timing of sequential operations, the scheme and safety, etc.

HIF-2α regulates proliferation, invasion, and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma cells via VEGF/Notch1 signaling axis after insufficient radiofrequency ablation

Background and Aims

Although insufficient radiofrequency ablation (RFA) promotes the recurrence and metastasis of liver cancer, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the role and mechanism of HIF-2α in hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HCCs) after Insufficient RFA.

Methods

We established a model of insufficient RFA in MHCC97H hepatoma cells and screened for stable sublines. We inhibited HIF-2α expression in the Insufficient RFA group using PT2385 and assessed the resulting changes in proliferation and biological function of HCCs. Cell viability and proliferation were detected by the MTT method, and scratch and Transwell chamber invasion tests detected migration and invasion abilities of HCCs. The mRNA and protein expression levels of VEGF, HIF-2α, and Notch1 were detected using qPCR, immunofluorescence, and western blotting.

Results

Compared with normal HCCs without RFA treatment, insufficient RFA enhanced the proliferation and invasion abilities of hepatocellular carcinoma subline MHCC97H (P < 0.001), as well as their migration ability (P = 0.046). The HIF-2α-specific inhibitor PT2385 downregulated the migration (P = 0.009) and invasion (P < 0.001) of MHCC97H cells but did not affect cell proliferation (P > 0.05). Insufficient ablation increased the mRNA and protein expression of VEGF, HIF-2α, and Notch1 in HCCs, whereas inhibition of HIF-2α reversed these changes.

Conclusions

Insufficient RFA increases the proliferation, migration, and invasion of HCCs via the HIF-2α/VEGF/Notch1 signaling axis; HIF-2α is a potential target for novel treatments of HCC after insufficient RFA.

Application of metagenomic next-generation sequencing in the diagnosis and treatment of recurrent urinary tract infection in kidney transplant recipients

Background

Rapid and accurate pathogen diagnosis is an urgent unmet clinical need for recurrent urinary tract infection (RUTI) in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). Metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) may offer another strategy for diagnosing uropathogens but remains to be studied.

Methods

Nineteen KTRs with RUTI were collected in this study. The uropathogens were detected and compared by mNGS and urine culture, respectively. Modifications of the anti-infection strategy were also assessed.

Results

Rich and diverse pathogens were revealed by mNGS. mNGS was significantly higher than culture in total positive rate (100.0% vs. 31.6%; p < 0.01) and in identification rates for bacteria (89.5% vs. 31.6%; p < 0.01), for viruses (57.9% vs. 0; p < 0.01), and for fungi (42.1% vs. 0; p < 0.01), respectively. mNGS identified a significantly higher proportion of mixed infections than culture (89.5% vs. 10.5%; p < 0.01). The anti-infection therapies were adjusted in two (33.3%) and 12 (76.9%) cases guided by culture and mNGS, respectively.

Conclusion

mNGS has more remarkable etiological diagnostic performance compared with urine culture for KTRs with RUTI to guide anti-infection strategies and, in turn, protect the graft.

[Role of alternative activation of macrophages in hookworm therapy for inflammatory diseases: a review]

As a type of highly plastic innate immune cells, macrophages may be differentiated into M1 and M2 macrophages upon different stimuli, and M2 macrophages are involved in immune regulation, tissue remodeling and regeneration, and wound healing. Previous epidemiological studies have shown a significant negative correlation between the prevalence of helminth infections and the incidence of inflammatory diseases, such as allergy and autoimmune diseases. As a common type of intestinal helminths, hookworm infection may trigger high levels of type II host immune responses, with alternative activation of macrophages, which are effective to inhibit the development and progression of inflammatory diseases. This review summarizes the advances in alternative activation of macrophages in hookworm therapy for inflammatory diseases.

Timeliness of information disclosure during the low transmission period of COVID-19: resident-level observational study in China

Background

Only when people feel they have received timely disclosure will they have sufficient incentive to implement community prevention and control measures. The timely and standardized information published by authorities as a response to the crisis can better inform the public and enable better preparations for the pandemic during the low transmission period of COVID-19; however, there is limited evidence of whether people consent that information is disclosed timely and influencing factors.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted in China from 4 to 26 February 2021. Convenient sampling strategy was adopted to recruit participators. Participants were asked to filled out the questions that assessed questionnaire on the residents’ attitudes to information disclosure timely. A binary logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the risk factors affecting the residents’ attitudes.

Results

A total of 2361 residents filled out the questionnaire. 1704 (72.17%) consented COVID-19 information has been disclosed timely. Furthermore, age (OR = 0.093, 95%CI = 0.043 ~ 0.201), gender (OR = 1.396, 95%CI = 1.085 ~ 1.797), place of residence (OR = 0.650, 95%CI = 0.525 ~ 0.804), employed status (OR = 2.757, 95%CI = 1.598 ~ 4.756), highest educational level (OR = 0.394, 95%CI = 0.176 ~ 0.880), region (OR = 0.561, 95%CI = 0.437 ~ 0.720) and impact on life by the COVID-19 (OR = 0.482, 95%CI = 0.270 ~ 0.861) were mainly factors associated with residents’ attitudes.

Conclusions

The aims of this study were to evaluate the residents attitudes to information disclosure timely during the low transmission period in China and to provide a scientific basis for effective information communication in future public health crises. Timely and effective efforts to disclose information need to been made during the low transmission period. Continued improvements to local authority reporting will contribute to more effective public communication and efficient public health research responses. The development of protocols and the standardization of epidemic message templates—as well as the use of uniform operating procedures to provide regular information updates—should be prioritized to ensure a coordinated national response.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-022-12804-x.

piRNA-14633 promotes cervical cancer cell malignancy in a METTL14-dependent m6A RNA methylation manner

Background

Cervical cancer (CC) is one of the most common gynecological tumors that threatens women's health and lives. Aberrant expression of PIWI-interacting RNA (piRNA) is closely related with a range of cancers and can serve as a tumor promoter or suppressor in proliferation, migration and invasion. In this study, the aim was not only to discover differential expression of piRNA in CC tissue (CC cells) and normal cervical tissue (normal cervical epithelium cells), but also to investigate the biological function and action mechanism of piRNA in CC.

Methods

The DESeq2 approach was used to estimate fold change in piRNA between CC tissue and normal cervical tissue. The relative expressions of piRNAs (piRNA-20657, piRNA-20497, piRNA-14633 and piRNA-13350) and RNA m6A methyltransferases/demethylases were detected using RT-qPCR. After intervention with piRNA-14633 and METTL14 expression, the viability of CaSki cells and SiHa cells was detected by CCK8. CC cell proliferation was detected by colony formation assay. Apoptosis rate and cell cycle were detected by flow cytometry. Transwell assay was performed to detect cell migration and invasion. EpiQuik m6A RNA Methylation Quantification Kit was used to evaluate m6A RNA methylation levels. Expression of methyltransferase-like protein 14 (METTL14), PIWIL-proteins and CYP1B1 were detected by RT-qPCR and western blot. The effect of piRNA-14633 on METTL14 was evaluated by a dual-luciferase reporter assay. The in vivo effects of piRNA-14633 on CC was assessed by nude mice experiments.

Results

piRNA-14633 showed high expression in CC tissues and cells, piRNA-14633 mimic (piRNA-14633 overexpression) promoted viability, proliferation, migration and invasion of CaSki cells and SiHa cells. Besides, piRNA-14633 mimic increased m6A RNA methylation levels and METTL14 mRNA stability. Results of dual luciferase reporter assays indicated that METTL14 was a directed target gene of piRNA-14633. Knockdown of METTL14 with siRNA attenuated proliferation, migration and invasion of CC cells. piRNA-14633 increased CYP1B1 expression, while silencing of METTL14 impaired its expression. The effect of piRNA overexpression on METTL14 expression has concentration-dependent characteristics. Results from in vivo experiment indicated that piRNA-14633 promoted cervical tumor growth.

Conclusion

piRNA-14633 promotes proliferation, migration and invasion of CC cells by METTL14/CYP1B1 signaling axis, highlighting the important role of piRNA-14633 in CC.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12967-022-03257-2.

CSF high-mobility group box 1 is associated with drug-resistance and symptomatic etiology in adult patients with epilepsy

PURPOSE

Extracellular high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) is considered a proinflammatory mediator and is involved in various neurological disorders. This study aims to determine the expression profiles of HMGB1 in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and paired serum, and to explore whether there is a relationship between CSF HMGB1 concentrations with seizure parameters in adult patients with epilepsy.

METHODS

CSF and paired serum HMGB1 concentrations were measured in patients with drug-refractory epilepsy (DRE, n = 27), newly diagnosed epilepsy (NDE, n = 56), and other non-inflammatory neurological disorders (ONNDs, n = 22). The correlations in HMGB1 levels between CSF and blood were performed. The associations between HMGB1 levels and seizure parameters were analyzed.

RESULTS

Mean (± SD) CSF HMGB1 concentrations were 5.08 ± 3.06, 3.03 ± 2.25, 0.83 ± 0.77 ng/mL in patients with DRE, NDE, and ONNDs, respectively. Corresponding mean (± SD) serum concentrations were 4.53 ± 2.81, 2.32 ± 1.54, 1.56 ± 0.84 ng/mL. The CSF HMGB1 concentrations were significantly higher in the DRE and NDE groups compared with the ONNDs group (p < 0.001). There were no correlations in HMGB1 levels between CSF and serum in the DRE, NDE, and ONNDs groups. Furthermore, patients with symptomatic etiology showed significantly high levels of CSF HMGB1. Patients without remission expressed elevated levels of CSF HMGB1 at one-year follow-up. Additionally, the CSF HMGB1 levels were positively associated with seizure frequency.

CONCLUSION

Our study shows that HMGB1 may be a critical player in seizure mechanisms and CSF HMGB1 might be predictive in determining epilepsy etiology and prognosis.

Anticancer effects of dihydromyricetin on the proliferation, migration, apoptosis and in vivo tumorigenicity of human hepatocellular carcinoma Hep3B cells

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents a serious public health problem worldwide and has high morbidity and mortality. Dihydromyricetin (DHM) exhibits anticancer effect on a variety of malignancies, but its anticancer function of DHM in HCC has been unclear. The aim of this study was designed to investigate the anticancer effect of DHM on cell apoptosis, proliferation, migration and invasion of hepatoma carcinoma cells.

Methods

Cultured Hep3B cells were treated with different DHM concentrations, followed by cell apoptosis, proliferation, migration and invasion were examined by CCK-8, colony formation assay, wound healing, Transwell and flow cytometry, respectively. The mRNA and protein expression of BCL-2, Cleaved-caspase 3, Cleaved-caspase 9, BAK, BAX and BAD were validated by western blot.

Results

DHM markedly suppressed proliferation, migration, invasion and facilitated apoptosis in Hep3B cells. Mechanistically, DHM significantly downregulated the Bcl-2 expression, and upregulated the mRNA and protein levels of Cleaved-Caspase 3, Cleaved- Caspase 9, Bak, Bax and Bad. Furthermore, in the nude mice tumorigenic model, DHM treatment greatly decreased the weight of the HCC cancers compared to the weights in control and NDP group.

Conclusions

DHM could suppress cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and facilitated apoptosis in Hep3B cells. These findings could provide novel insights to develop potential therapeutic strategy for the clinical treatment of HCC.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12906-021-03356-5.

Case Report: Low-Dose Apatinib in the Treatment of Intrahepatic Biliary Cystadenoma With Recurrence and Malignant Transformation

Apatinib is a new oral tyrosine kinase inhibitor that targets vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2. It has been proven effective in treating multiple solid tumors. Herein, we report the case of a 67-year-old Chinese patient who was diagnosed with recurrent and malignant transformation of intrahepatic biliary cystadenoma. After multidisciplinary team discussion, the team considered that the remaining liver volume was insufficient for surgical resection. The patient refused chemotherapy and radiotherapy and was willing to take apatinib. Initially, the patient experienced severe tongue ulcers and difficulty eating. The dose of apatinib was then adjusted to 250 mg/day. To date, he has been taking apatinib for 48 months. Regular re-examination showed that the tumor had significantly decreased in size. On January 16, 2021, a CT scan revealed a tumor diameter of 4.5 cm. In our case, the patient achieved partial response and progression-free survival(PFS) of 48.0 months. During treatment, the patient’s appetite and mental state were expected. The treatment did not induce hypertension, fatigue, hand-foot syndrome, or liver and kidney damage. Apatinib may be an option for the treatment of advanced intrahepatic biliary cystadenocarcinoma. Its toxicity is controllable and tolerable. The exact curative effect still needs to be evaluated in more cases.

Functional cooperation between co-amplified genes promotes aggressive phenotypes of HER2-positive breast cancer

MED1 (mediator subunit 1)co-amplifies with HER2, but its role in HER2-driven mammary tumorigenesis is still unknown. Here, we generate MED1 mammary-specific overexpression mice and cross them with mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV)-HER2 mice. We observe significantly promoted onset, growth, metastasis, and multiplicity of HER2 tumors by MED1 overexpression. Further studies reveal critical roles for MED1 in epithelial-mesenchymal transition, cancer stem cell formation, and response to anti-HER2 therapy. Mechanistically, RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) transcriptome analyses and clinical sample correlation studies identify Jab1, a component of the COP9 signalosome complex, as the key direct target gene of MED1 contributing to these processes. Further studies reveal that Jab1 can also reciprocally regulate the stability and transcriptional activity of MED1. Together, our findings support a functional cooperation between these co-amplified genes in HER2⁺ mammary tumorigenesis and their potential usage as therapeutic targets for the treatment of HER2⁺ breast cancers.

In this study, Yang et al. generate a more clinically relevant MMTV-HER2/MMTV-MED1 mammary tumor mouse model and discover the critical roles and molecular mechanisms of MED1 overexpression in mediating the aggressive phenotypes of HER2⁺ tumor progression, metastasis, cancer stem cell formation, and therapy resistance.

Autophagy Blockade Limits HER2+ Breast Cancer Tumorigenesis by Perturbing HER2 Trafficking and Promoting Release Via Small Extracellular Vesicles

Autophagy modulation is an emerging strategy for cancer therapy. By deleting an essential autophagy gene or disrupting its autophagy function, we determined a mechanism of HER2+ breast cancer tumorigenesis by directly regulating the oncogenic driver. Disruption of FIP200-mediated autophagy reduced HER2 expression on the tumor cell surface and abolished mammary tumorigenesis in MMTV-Neu mice. Decreased HER2 surface expression was due to trafficking from the Golgi to the endocytic pathways instead of the plasma membrane. Autophagy inhibition led to HER2 accumulation in early and late endosomes associated with intraluminal vesicles and released from tumor cells in small extracellular vesicles (sEVs). Increased HER2 release from sEVs correlated with reduced tumor cell surface levels. Blocking sEVs secretion rescued HER2 levels in tumor cells. Our results demonstrate a role for autophagy to promote tumorigenesis in HER2+ breast cancer. This suggests that blocking autophagy could supplement current anti-HER2 agents for treating the disease.

PRMT5 inhibition attenuates cartilage degradation by reducing MAPK and NF-κB signaling

Objectives

A role for the type II arginine methyltransferase PRMT5 in various human diseases has been identified. In this study, the potential mechanism underlying the involvement of PRMT5 in the pathological process leading to osteoarthritis (OA) was investigated.

Methods

PRMT5 expression in cartilage tissues from patients with OA and control individuals was assessed by immunohistochemical staining. The regulatory and functional roles of PRMT5 in the chondrocytes of patients with OA and control individuals were determined by western blotting and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. The effects of the PRMT5 inhibitor EPZ on interleukin-1β-induced inflammation were examined in the chondrocytes of patients with OA and in the destabilized medial meniscus (DMM) of a mouse model of OA.

Results

PRMT5 was specifically upregulated in the cartilage of patients with OA. Moreover, adenovirus-mediated overexpression of PRMT5 in human chondrocytes caused cartilage degeneration. This degeneration was induced by elevated expression levels of matrix-degrading enzymes (matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3) and matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13)) in chondrocytes. The activation of the MAPK and nuclear factor κB signaling pathways was evidenced by elevated levels of p-p65, p-p38, and p-JNK. These effects were attenuated by inhibiting the expression of PRMT5. In the mouse model, EPZ inhibited PRMT5 expression, thus protecting mouse cartilage from DMM-induced OA.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that PRMT5 is a crucial regulator of OA pathogenesis, implying that EPZ has therapeutic value in the treatment of this cartilage-destroying disease.

Generation of GGTA1-/-β2M-/-CIITA-/- Pigs Using CRISPR/Cas9 Technology to Alleviate Xenogeneic Immune Reactions

BACKGROUND

Xenogeneic organ transplantation has been proposed as a potential approach to fundamentally solve organ shortage problem. Xenogeneic immune responses across species is one of the major obstacles for clinic application of xeno-organ transplantation. The generation of glycoprotein galactosyltransferase α 1, 3 (GGTA1) knockout pigs has greatly contributed to the reduction of hyperacute xenograft rejection. However, severe xenograft rejection can still be induced by xenoimmune responses to the porcine major histocompatibility complex antigens swine leukocyte antigen class I and class II.

METHODS

We simultaneously depleted GGTA1, β2-microglobulin (β2M), and major histocompatibility complex class II transactivator (CIITA) genes using clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats and CRISPR-associated proteins technology in Bamma pig fibroblast cells, which were further used to generate GGTA1β2MCIITA triple knockout (GBC-3KO) pigs by nuclear transfer.

RESULTS

The genotype of GBC-3KO pigs was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction and Sanger sequencing, and the loss of expression of α-1,3-galactose, SLA-I, and SLA-II was demonstrated by flow cytometric analysis using fluorescent-conjugated lectin from bandeiraea simplicifolia, anti-β2-microglobulin, and swine leukocyte antigen class II DR antibodies. Furthermore, mixed lymphocyte reaction assay revealed that peripheral blood mononuclear cells from GBC-3KO pigs were significantly less effective than (WT) pig peripheral blood mononuclear cells in inducing human CD3CD4 and CD3CD8 T-cell activation and proliferation. In addition, GBC-3KO pig skin grafts showed a significantly prolonged survival in immunocompetent C57BL/6 mice, when compared with wild-type pig skin grafts.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, these results demonstrate that elimination of GGTA1, β2M, and CIITA genes in pigs can effectively alleviate xenogeneic immune responses and prolong pig organ survival in xenogenesis. We believe that this work will facilitate future research in xenotransplantation.

Dose-response association of resting heart rate and hypertension in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis of cohort studies

BACKGROUND

The association of resting heart rate (RHR) and hypertension in adults is unclear. We aimed to perform a meta-analysis of cohort studies to clarify the association.

METHODS

We searched PubMed and Embase from their inception to November 3, 2017, for published articles. We used a random effects model to combine study-specific relative risks (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). We used restricted cubic spline functions to assess the dose-response relationship.

RESULTS

Nine cohort articles (12 independent studies) with 79,399 individuals and more than 26,380 incident cases of hypertension were included. The summary RR for hypertension was 1.09 (95% CI: 1.06-1.13) with each 10 bpm increment in RHR. The cubic spline model suggested that when compared with 55.5 beats per minute, the risk of hypertension significantly increased with increasing levels of RHR (Pnonlinearity = 0.059).

CONCLUSION

We found a linear dose-response association between RHR and incident hypertension in adults.

[Brain protection strategy and effectivity in pulmonary thromboendarterectomy]

Objective: To summarize the experience and effectivity of brain protection in 25 patients who suffered from chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) and received pulmonary thromboendarterectomy (PTE) under deep hypothermic circulatory arrest. Methods: Retrospective analysis of 25 PTE surgeries in our center from December 2016 to August 2018. All cases were completed underdeep hypothermic circulatory arrest. Standard brain protections were strictly executed, including: balanced and controlled extracorporeal circulation cooling, cerebral oxygen saturation (rSO(2)) monitoring, strictly control of circulatory arrest time, and etc. The neurological adverse events during the perioperative period were recorded and statistically analyzed, and the intelligence level and cognitive function of the patients were evaluated by MMSE scale and MoCA scale before surgery and discharge. Results: All the 25 patients successfully completed the surgery, and 1 patient (4%) died of postoperative infection. The mean pulmonary arterial pressure decreased from (52.9±16.7) mmHg before surgery to (23.6±8.1) mmHg immediately after surgery (t=10.01, P<0.01), and(20.7±7.9) mmHg at 3 months follow-up (t=10.73, P<0.01). Pulmonary vascular resistance decreased from 975.4 (788.6-1 292.8) dyn·s·cm(-5) to 376.1 (283.6-565.5) dyn·s·cm(-5) (Z=5.34, P<0.01). Neurological complications occurred in 3 patients during the perioperative period, including 2 patients with hypoxic encephalopathy, and 1 patient with cerebral hemorrhage. All 3 patients fully recovered before discharge. Univariate analysis showed that the duration of rSO(2)<40% and the maximum decrease rate of rSO(2) from baseline were significantly correlated with postoperative neurological damage. Multivariate analysis showed only time of rSO(2)<40% was significantly correlated with postoperative neurological damage. There was no significant difference in MMSE and MoCA score before and after surgery (P>0.05). Conclusions: Adequate brain protection measures are essential to reduce the neurological complications of PTE surgery. Real-time intraoperative monitoring of rSO(2) and strict control of circulatory arrest time can further reduce the occurrence of neurological damage.

[Analysis of risk factors for cerebrovascular complications after carotid endarterectomy]

Objective: To evaluate the related risk factors of cerebrovascular complications after carotid endarterectomy (CEA) and to improve the efficacy of CEA in the treatment of ischemic stroke. Methods: The clinical data of 295 patients with atherosclerotic carotid artery stenosis who underwent CEA in the Department of Vascular Surgery, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University from January 2013 to March 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. Results: As the results of the single-factor analysis of logistics, severe lower limb artery stenosis (RR=5.667, P=0.017), systolic blood pressure before the carotid artery clamping (RR=6.659, P=0.010), diastolic blood pressure before the carotid artery clamping (RR=3.981, P=0.046), stump pressure (RR=5.359, P=0.021), diastolic blood pressure after surgery (RR=9.550, P=0.002), diastolic blood pressure of the first day after surgery (RR=7.932, P=0.005) were influencing factors of postoperative cerebrovascular complications after CEA. The results of multi-factor analysis of logistic regression indicated that diastolic blood pressure before the carotid artery clamping (RR=0.953, P=0.024) and stump pressure to basic systolic blood pressure index (SSI)>0.25 (RR=0.086, P=0.049) were independent risk factors for postoperative cerebrovascular complications after CEA. Conclusion: Systolic blood pressure before carotid artery clamping and SSI>0.25 are independent risk factors for postoperative cerebrovascular complications after CEA. Close follow-up and drug treatment for patients after CEA might be beneficial to reduce postoperative carotid artery restenosis.

ARF influences diabetes through promoting the proliferation and malignant development of β cells

OBJECTIVE

Diabetes is a common chronic disease. ARF is a new tumor suppressor, which is one hotspot of cell cycle regulators. The mutation of ARF is absent in nearly 50% of tumors. ARF plays an important role in many physiological processes, such as cell proliferation, cell senescence and cell cycle arrest. However, the molecular mechanism of ARF regulating is not clear at present. Our study aims to explore the mechanism of ARF in diabetes.

METHODS

ARF-Tg mice and C57 mice were fasted for 12 hours before the experiment. STZ was injected at a dose of 45-65 mg/kg. The model was established for blood glucose ≥16.7 mmol/L, the level of sugar in urine was at 3 + -4+. The experiment was carried out when the mice was eight weeks. The levels of glucagon with or without doxycycline mice, the proliferation and apoptosis of β-cell after immunosuppressive therapy were determined by immunofluorescence assay. Immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry were used to observe the changes of insulin and glucagon.

RESULTS

Forty-eight model mice (96%) were divided into two groups, each group has 24 mice, respectively. There was not significant difference of insulin and glucagon in both groups without induction. After induction, the level of insulin was increased in ARF-Tg mice, the neonatal β cells were not increased but the number of proliferation cells and apoptotic cells was increased. Sirolimus combined with tacrolimus can effectively inhibit the reversal of the development of diabetes, but the conclusions need to be further confirmed in clinical.

CONCLUSIONS

High expression of ARF can promote the occurrence of diabetes by accelerating cell proliferation and apoptosis. Immunosuppressive agents can effectively reverse this phenomenon.

[Effects of Blood-brain Barrier and Simulated metabolic system on Apoptosis of SH-SY5Y Induced by Acrylamide in Vitro]

Objective: To evaluate the effect of acrylamide on the apoptosis of nerve cells by integral cell modelling in vitro which simulates the barrier effect and metabolic micro-environment. Methods: A non-contact and co-cultured in vitro blood brain barrier (BBB) model was established by using human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) and rat glioma cells (C6) . The trans-endotheilal electrical resistance (TEER) and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) tracer effects were measured to verify the tight connectivity and permeability of the established BBB model. An integrate discrete multiple organ cell co-culture (idMOC) model was established by inoculating the human renal cortical proximal tubular epithelial cells (HK-2) , human normal hepatocytes (L-02) and human neuroblastoma cells (SH-SY5Y) into the self-made multi-organ plate for co-culturing. Then the model was verified by observing the growth curve of various tissue cells under co-culturing or culturing individually. SH-SY5Y cells were exposed to different concentrations of acrylamide directly and indirectly (through BBB model and idMOC model) . The changes of cell apoptosis rate were analyzed by flow cytometry to explore the impact of model on Acrylamide (ACR) injury of typical neurotoxic agents. Results: HUVEC cells can form a wide range of close-connected complex and then inhibit the external electric field under the cross-endothelial movement, and the mean was lower than that of endothelial cell culture group at 4, 5 and 6 days (P<0.05) ; After 20 min, the penetration rate of HRP in the co-culture group was less than that in the individual culture group, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05) , indicating that the barrier function of the co-culture group was higher than that of the individual culture group. All cells can exchange substances through the exchange hole of the culture plate, the cells grow well and there was no obvious death. The growth curve in individual culture group and co-culture group were basically the same, the difference was not statistically significant (P>0.05) . Under the condition of different concentrations of ACR (140, 270 g/ml) , compared with the direct exposure group, the apoptosis rate of the BBB model and the idMOC model were significantly decreased, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05) . Conclusion: Based on HUVEC cells and C6 cells co-culture system, a blood-brain barrier model in vitro was established and based on co-culture of HK-2, L-02 and SH-SY5Y, the idMOC model was established. The toxicity and toxic action characteristics of ACR on SH-SY5Y cells were evaluated by validation tests.

The influence of tumor-induced immune dysfunction on the immune cell distribution of gold nanoparticles in vivo

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have been extensively explored as a drug carrier and have been widely used to provide advanced biomedical research tools in diagnostic imaging and therapy for cancer. Although the mononuclear phagocyte system and immune system are known to play the main roles in the clearance of AuNPs during the circulation, the particle distribution within the immune cells under the condition of immune dysfunction caused by tumor growth has not been thoroughly studied. Here, the cellular distribution of Cy5 labeled AuNPs with diameters of 5, 30 and 50 nm is characterized within the immune populations of the blood, spleen and bone marrow from tumor free and tumor bearing mice using flow cytometry. Tumor-associated immune dysfunction was observed in all immune organs and cell lineages, and it changed with tumor growth. Furthermore, the particle cellular distribution significantly changed in the tumor bearing mice compared with the tumor free mice. Finally, the particle distribution in the immune cells was also different at different stages of the tumor. Overall, these results can help inform and influence future AuNP design criteria including the future applications for nanoparticle-mediated cancer therapy.

HER2-Driven Breast Tumorigenesis Relies upon Interactions of the Estrogen Receptor with Coactivator MED1

Studies of the estrogen receptor (ER) coactivator protein Mediator subunit 1 (MED1) have revealed its specific roles in pubertal mammary gland development and potential contributions to breast tumorigenesis, based on coamplification of MED1 and HER2 in certain breast cancers. In this study, we generated a mouse model of mammary tumorigenesis harboring the MMTV-HER2 oncogene and mutation of MED1 to evaluate its role in HER2-driven tumorigenesis. MED1 mutation in its ER-interacting LxxLL motifs was sufficient to delay tumor onset and to impair tumor growth, metastasis, and cancer stem-like cell formation in this model. Mechanistic investigations revealed that MED1 acted directly to regulate ER signaling through the downstream IGF1 pathway but not the AREG pathway. Our findings show that MED1 is critical for HER2-driven breast tumorigenesis, suggesting its candidacy as a disease-selective therapeutic target.Significance: These findings identify an estrogen receptor-binding protein as a critical mediator of HER2-driven breast tumorigenesis, suggesting its candidacy as a disease-selective therapeutic target. Cancer Res; 78(2); 422-35. ©2017 AACR.

Expression of Wnt3a in hepatocellular carcinoma and its effects on cell cycle and metastasis

Invasion and metastasis are the primary causes of mortality from hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Effective inhibition against participants in the tumourigenesis and metastasis process is critical for treatment of HCC. Wnt3a is involved in the development and metastasis of many malignant tumours. However, the specific mechanisms of Wnt3a-mediated cell proliferation, invasion and metastasis in HCC remain unclear. In this study, we found that Wnt3a and its target gene c-Myc showed higher expression in tumour tissues than normal liver tissues in HCC patients; 71.8% of the cases studied had high Wnt3a and c-Myc expression levels (n=32); Wnt3a expression positively correlated with its target genes MMP-7 and c-Myc. Intriguingly, the expression of Wnt3a, MMP-7 and c-Myc is significantly correlated with Notch3 and Hes1 expression. In vitro experiments showed that Wnt3a was highly expressed in MHcc97H and SK-Hep-1 cells. Therefore, Wnt3a expression was silenced with siRNA, and then, MTT, flow cytometry, wound healing and Transwell assays were performed to analyse cell proliferation, cycle, migration and invasion. The results demonstrated that downregulation of Wnt3a expression inhibited cell viability and induced G₀/G₁ cell cycle arrest via decreased expression of cyclin D1 and c-Myc and increased expression of p21 and p27. In addition, deletion of Wnt3a significantly inhibited migration and invasion by downregulating MMP-2/-7/-9 expression via the MAPK (p38, ERK1/2 and JNK) pathway. In conclusion, our data show that Wnt3a is involved in HCC development. Wnt3a may be an effective target for treatment of HCC.

[Distribution and drug resistance of pathogens at hematology department of Jiangsu Province from 2014 to 2015: results from a multicenter, retrospective study]

Objective: To describe the distribution and drug resistance of pathogens at hematology department of Jiangsu Province from 2014 to 2015 to provide reference for empirical anti-infection treatment. Methods: Pathogens were from hematology department of 26 tertiary hospitals in Jiangsu Province from 2014 to 2015. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was carried out according to a unified protocol using Kirby-Bauer method or agar dilution method. Collection of drug susceptibility results and corresponding patient data were analyzed. Results: The separated pathogens amounted to 4 306. Gram-negative bacteria accounted for 64.26%, while the proportions of gram-positive bacteria and funguses were 26.99% and 8.75% respectively. Common gram-negative bacteria were Escherichia coli (20.48%) , Klebsiella pneumonia (15.40%) , Pseudomonas aeruginosa (8.50%) , Acinetobacter baumannii (5.04%) and Stenotropho-monas maltophilia (3.41%) respectively. CRE amounted to 123 (6.68%) . Common gram-positive bacteria were Staphylococcus aureus (4.92%) , Staphylococcus hominis (4.88%) and Staphylococcus epidermidis (4.71%) respectively. Candida albicans were the main fungus which accounted for 5.43%. The rates of Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumonia resistant to carbapenems were 3.5%-6.1% and 5.0%-6.3% respectively. The rates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa resistant to tobramycin and amikacin were 3.2% and 3.3% respectively. The resistant rates of Acinetobacter baumannii towards tobramycin and cefoperazone/sulbactam were both 19.2%. The rates of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia resistant to minocycline and sulfamethoxazole were 3.5% and 9.3% respectively. The rates of Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecium and Enterococcus faecalis resistant wards vancomycin were 0, 6.4% and 1.4% respectively; also, the rates of them resistant to linezolid were 1.2%, 0 and 1.6% respectively; in addition, the rates of them resistant to teicoplanin were 2.8%, 14.3% and 8.0% respectively. Furthermore, MRSA accounted for 39.15% (83/212) . Conclusions: Pathogens were mainly gram-negative bacteria. CRE accounted for 6.68%. The rates of Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumonia resistant to carbapenems were lower compared with other antibacterial agents. The rates of gram-positive bacteria resistant to vancomycin, linezolid and teicoplanin were still low. MRSA accounted for 39.15%.

[Primary ciliary dyskinesia with HYDIN gene mutations in a child and literature review]

Objective: To review children's primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) in the pathogenesis, clinical manifestation, diagnosis and treatment. Method: To summarize and analyze the clinical data of a patient who was admitted to the first affiliated hospital of Xiamen University with primary ciliary dyskinesia in April 2014 while referring to related literature. Result: An 11 years old boy, weighting about 22 kg, had a course of more than 10 years with repeated cough, stuffy and runny nose shortly after the birth. Examinations after admission to hospital showed that he presented with visible clubbing, bilateral paranasal sinus area tenderness, pharynx posterior wall with visible yellow pussy stuff drip and bilateral lung had scattered wet rales. Auxiliary examination revealed bilateral maxillary sinus, ethmoid sinus inflammation and bronchitis with left lower lung bronchiectasis. Fiberoptic bronchoscopy discovered congestion and a lot of sputum; ciliary biopsy pathology displayed that cilia were sparse and partial cilia 9+ 2 microtubules structural abnormalities. Full sequence of exon gene sequencing revealed two mutations located at chromosome 16 chr16: 71061369 (non-coding regions) and chr16: 70993591 (coding). Two novel mutations m. 3362A>G(E20) and c. 6101G>A(E39) in exon 16 of the HYDIN gene were identified. With the" ciliary motility disorder, gene" as keywords , the CNKI, Wanfang digital knowledge service platform and PubMed were searched for relevant articles from the establishment to July 2016. The studies retrieved included 9 cases and these cases were summarized. Comprehensive analysis showed that HYDIN gene mutations related PCD patients had the typical PCD performance such as repeatedly wet cough, sinusitis, bronchiectasis, and otitis media. The majority of patients have a history of acute respiratory distress syndrome in infancy and no visceral dislocation was not found. Most of the patients had no obvious structural abnormalities in cilia electron microscopic examination. Conclusion: The PCD patients with HYDIN genes mutations have clinical manifestations such as sinusitis, otitis media, bronchiectasis but without transposition of viscera. Cilia structure can be normal under the electron microscopic examination in some of patients.

Overcoming Tamoxifen Resistance of Human Breast Cancer by Targeted Gene Silencing Using Multifunctional pRNA Nanoparticles

Most breast cancers express estrogen receptor (ER) α, and the antiestrogen drug tamoxifen has been widely used for their treatment. Unfortunately, up to half of all ERα-positive tumors have intrinsic or acquired endocrine therapy resistance. Our recent studies revealed that the ER coactivator Mediator Subunit 1 (MED1) plays a critical role in tamoxifen resistance through cross-talk with HER2. Herein, we assembled a three-way junction (3-WJ) pRNA-HER2apt-siMED1 nanoparticle to target HER2-overexpressing human breast cancer via an HER2 RNA aptamer to silence MED1 expression. We found that these ultracompact RNA nanoparticles are very stable under RNase A, serum, and 8 M urea conditions. These nanoparticles specifically bound to HER2-overexpressing breast cancer cells, efficiently depleted MED1 expression, and significantly decreased ERα-mediated gene transcription, whereas point mutations of the HER2 RNA aptamer on these nanoparticles abolished such functions. The RNA nanoparticles not only reduced the growth, metastasis, and mammosphere formation of the HER2-overexpressing breast cancer cells but also sensitized them to tamoxifen treatment. These biosafe nanoparticles efficiently targeted and penetrated into HER2-overexpressing tumors after systemic administration in orthotopic xenograft mouse models. In addition to their ability to greatly inhibit tumor growth and metastasis, these nanoparticles also led to a dramatic reduction in the stem cell content of breast tumors when combined with tamoxifen treatment in vivo. Overall, we have generated multifunctional RNA nanoparticles that specifically targeted HER2-overexpressing human breast cancer, silenced MED1, and overcame tamoxifen resistance.

Activation of β-Catenin Signaling in CD133-Positive Dermal Papilla Cells Drives Postnatal Hair Growth

The hair follicle dermal papilla (DP) contains a unique prominin-1/CD133-positive (CD133+) cell subpopulation, which has been shown to possess hair follicle-inducing capability. By assaying for endogenous CD133 expression and performing lineage tracing using CD133-CreERT2; ZsGreen1 reporter mice, we find that CD133 is expressed in a subpopulation of DP cells during the growth phase of the murine hair cycle (anagen), but is absent at anagen onset. However, how CD133+ DP cells interact with keratinocytes to induce hair regenerative growth remains unclear. Wnt/β-catenin has long been recognized as a major signaling pathway required for hair follicle morphogenesis, development, and regeneration. Nuclear Wnt/β-catenin activity is observed in the DP during the hair growth phase. Here we show that induced expression of a stabilized form of β-catenin in CD133+ DP cells significantly accelerates spontaneous and depilation-induced hair growth. However, hair follicle regression is not affected in these mutants. Further analysis indicates that CD133+ DP-expressed β-catenin increases proliferation and differentiation of epithelial matrix keratinocytes. Upregulated Wnt/β-catenin activity in CD133+ DP cells also increases the number of proliferating DP cells in each anagen follicle. Our data demonstrate that β-catenin signaling potentiates the capability of CD133+ DP cells to promote postnatal hair growth.

Blockade of CD47 ameliorates autoimmune inflammation in CNS by suppressing IL-1-triggered infiltration of pathogenic Th17 cells

The migration of Th17 cells into central nervous system (CNS) tissue is the key pathogenic step in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model. However, the mechanism underlying the pathogenic Th17 cell migration remains elusive. Here we report that blockade of CD47 with CD47-Fc fusion protein is effective in preventing and curing EAE by impairing infiltration of Th17 cells into CNS. However, CD47 deficiency does not directly impair the migration of Th17 cells. Mechanistic studies showed that CD47 deficiency inhibited degradation of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in proteasome of macrophages by Src activation and led to the increased nitric oxide (NO) production. Then NO suppressed inflammasome activation-induced IL-1β production. This lower IL-1β reduces the expression of IL-1R1 and migration-related chemokine receptors on CD47(-/-) Th17 cells, inhibiting the ability of Th17 cells to infiltrate into the CNS of CD47(-/-) mice and therefore suppressing EAE development. In vivo administration of exogenous IL-1β indeed promoted the infiltration CD47(-/-) Th17 cells into CNS and antagonized the protective role of CD47 deficiency in EAE pathogenesis. Our results demonstrate a potential preventive and therapeutic application of CD47 blockade in controlling EAE development.

Bioequivalence of clopidogrel hydrogen sulfate tablets in healthy Chinese volunteers

We aimed to evaluate the bioequivalence of clopidogrel in healthy Chinese volunteers after administration of a single oral dose. We administered a single oral dose of 75 mg clopidogrel (test and reference) to 32 healthy Chinese volunteers according to an open, randomized, crossover design. The concentration of clopidogrel acid (carboxylic metabolite of clopidogrel) in the plasma was determined using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Bioequivalence of the test and reference preparations were calculated using analysis of variance and one-sided t-test by using the DAS 2.0 software. The pharmacokinetic parameters of the test and reference preparations were as follows: peak plasma concentration (Cmax), 1351.101 ± 654.955 ng/mL and 1184.652 ± 607.713 ng/mL; area under the curve, 2642.017 ± 1093.848 ng·h/mL and 2780.666 ± 1283.100 ng·h/mL; and time to reach Cmax (Tmax), 0.789 ± 0.318 h and 0.953 ± 0.633 h, respectively. The relative bioavailability of the formulation was 101.7 ± 35.3%, which indicated that the test preparation was bioequivalent to the reference drug.

Characterization of a New Anastomosis Group (AG-W) of Binucleate Rhizoctonia, Causal Agent for Potato Stem Canker

Two binucleate Rhizoctonia (BNR) isolates were recovered from potato cankered stems in Heilongjiang Province, northeastern China. Their cultural appearance on potato dextrose agar remained whitish as the cultures aged. White monilioid cells formed in the fluffy aerial hyphae, whereas no sclerotia appeared during the incubation. The two isolates could anastomose with each other, but they failed to anastomose with reference strains of BNR from AG-A to AG-Q, and AG-U. Analyses of restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) of internal transcribed spacer of ribosomal DNA (rDNA-ITS) regions confirmed that these two isolates differed from the reference strains. The phylogenetic tree based on the sequences of rDNA-ITS regions showed that they were located in a distinct clade from other BNR AGs. These collective results suggested that the isolates recovered from potato in this study belonged to a new BNR AG designated as AG-W. Pathogenicity tests under glasshouse conditions revealed that both isolates were able to cause brown, dry, and slightly sunken lesions on potato subterranean stems. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the AG-W causing potato disease in China as well as worldwide.

Humanized Mice Reveal Differential Immunogenicity of Cells Derived from Autologous Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells

The breakthrough of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology has raised the possibility that patient-specific iPSCs may become a renewable source of autologous cells for cell therapy without the concern of immune rejection. However, the immunogenicity of autologous human iPSC (hiPSC)-derived cells is not well understood. Using a humanized mouse model (denoted Hu-mice) reconstituted with a functional human immune system, we demonstrate that most teratomas formed by autologous integration-free hiPSCs exhibit local infiltration of antigen-specific T cells and associated tissue necrosis, indicating immune rejection of certain hiPSC-derived cells. In this context, autologous hiPSC-derived smooth muscle cells (SMCs) appear to be highly immunogenic, while autologous hiPSC-derived retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells are immune tolerated even in non-ocular locations. This differential immunogenicity is due in part to abnormal expression of immunogenic antigens in hiPSC-derived SMCs, but not in hiPSC-derived RPEs. These findings support the feasibility of developing hiPSC-derived RPEs for treating macular degeneration.

Nanoparticle Delivery Systems Reduce the Reproductive Toxicity of Docetaxel in Rodents

Various docetaxel (DTX)-loaded nanoparticle delivery systems have been designed to enhance the solubility and pharmacological effects of DTX. However, the toxicity changes of these nano-modified DTX (nano-DTX) are not yet clear enough. Herein, to compare the reproductive toxicity between conventional DTX and nano-DTX, we performed sperm toxicity test in mice, and fertility and early embryo-fetal developmental toxicity test in rats. It was found that DTX severely repressed spermatogenesis and sperm motility, and dramatically increased sperm abnormality in mice and rats. Moreover, DTX significantly decreased copulation, conception and fertility indexes in rats, and no positive pregnant female rat was obtained after treatment with DTX. However, nano-DTX significantly reduced DTX-induced toxicity to sperm. Most importantly, nano-DTX obviously converted DTX-induced fertility and early embryo-fetal developmental toxicity. Furthermore, organ weights and histopathology examination revealed DTX, but not nano-DTX, significantly decreased testis and epididymis weights, and induced obvious histopathological atrophy of testes and epididymides in rats. Further studies indicated that changed activity of lactate dehydrogenase C4 (LDH-C4) in rodents testes was mainly responsible for the above observations. These results strongly support the idea that DTX-loaded nanoformulations have the potential to overcome the reproductive toxicity of DTX.

Mechanism Study of Gene Delivery and Expression in PK-15 Cells Using Magnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles as Gene Carriers

The mechanism of gene delivery and expression is one of the most important concerns raised by the development of gene delivery methods. Limited investigation is performed on how magnetic nanoparticles combine with DNA and deliver gene into mammalian cells. In this context, polyethyleneimine (PEI) coated iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) were used as gene carriers for binding and condensing with plasmid DNA expressing enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP). The morphology and structure of MNP–DNA complexes were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). We evidenced that large amounts of DNA wrapped around the surface of MNPs and that the MNPs were physically entrapped by the DNA arranged both horizontally and vertically. EGFP gene was successfully expressed under mediation of an external magnetic field which is necessary to efficiently target EGFP gene to the cells. Fluorescence from EGFP was separately detected in the cell cytoplasm and cell nucleus.

Exosomes Biogenesis and Potentials in Disease Diagnosis and Drug Delivery

Exosomes were discovered more than 30 years ago. Only recently has their importance been recognized for intercellular communication. Exosomes, with their size ranging from 30 nm to 100 nm, are lipid bilayer nanoparticles and secreted by many different types of cells with versatile functions. Exosomes contain macromolecules and exist in various body fluids, including blood, urine, milk and ascites fluid. Due to their specific property, exosomes are very promising in the fields of disease diagnosis and therapy. Nanotechnology is a great tool that will be helpful in basic research and the application of exosomes. Here, we briefly review the function and potential use of exosomes in nanomedicine.

Effects of Size and Dispersity of Microcrystalline Celluloses on Size, Structure and Stability of Nanocrystalline Celluloses Extracted by Acid Hydrolysis

Nanocrystalline celluloses (NCCs) were separated from four commercial microcrystalline celluloses (MCCs) by an acid hydrolysis–sonication treatment. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrum, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) were conducted to investigate the NCCs. MCCs with different morphologies and particle sizes showed different aggregation degrees. The aggregation of MCCs followed the order MCC1 > MCC3 > MCC2 > MCC4, which is the same order of the heights of the resulting NCCs. The best uniformity and thermal stability were characterized for NCC3, which was produced by MCC3 with smallest original particle size and good dispersity among the four MCCs. This result suggests that both the original particle size and dispersity of MCCs had significant effects on separated NCCs.

Distinct functions for Wnt/β-catenin in hair follicle stem cell proliferation and survival and interfollicular epidermal homeostasis

Wnt/β-catenin signaling is a central regulator of adult stem cells. Variable sensitivity of Wnt reporter transgenes, β-catenin's dual roles in adhesion and signaling, and hair follicle degradation and inflammation resulting from broad deletion of epithelial β-catenin have precluded clear understanding of Wnt/β-catenin's functions in adult skin stem cells. By inducibly deleting β-catenin globally in skin epithelia, only in hair follicle stem cells, or only in interfollicular epidermis and comparing the phenotypes with those caused by ectopic expression of the Wnt/β-catenin inhibitor Dkk1, we show that this pathway is necessary for hair follicle stem cell proliferation. However, β-catenin is not required within hair follicle stem cells for their maintenance, and follicles resume proliferating after ectopic Dkk1 has been removed, indicating persistence of functional progenitors. We further unexpectedly discovered a broader role for Wnt/β-catenin signaling in contributing to progenitor cell proliferation in nonhairy epithelia and interfollicular epidermis under homeostatic, but not inflammatory, conditions.

Identification of a novel peptide that blocks basic fibroblast growth factor-mediated cell proliferation

Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) has been implicated in tumor growth via interactions with its receptors (FGFRs) on the cell surface and therefore, bFGF/FGFRs are considered essential targets for cancer therapy. Herein, a consensus heptapeptide (LSPPRYP) was identified for the first time from a phage display heptapeptide library after three sequential rounds of biopanning against FGFR-expressing cells with competitive displacement of phage by bFGF, followed by subtraction of non-specific binding by FGFR-deficient cells. Phage bearing LSPPRYP showed high levels of binding to Balb/c 3T3 cells expressing high-affinity bFGF-binding FGFR (bFGFR), but not to the cells that do not express bFGFR (Cos-7), or express a very low affinity bFGFR (HaCat). The selected-phage-derived peptide synthesized by solid phase method using a rapid and practical Fmoc strategy was found to specifically compete with bFGF for binding to its receptors, inhibit bFGF-stimulated cell proliferation by inducing cell cycle arrest, and block bFGF-induced activation of Erk1 and Erk2 kinase in B16-F10 melanoma cells. Importantly, treatment of melanoma-bearing mice with the synthetic peptide significantly suppressed tumor growth. The results demonstrate a strong anticancer activity of the isolated bFGFR-binding peptide (and its future derivatives), which may have great potential for cancer therapy.

First Report of Potato Stem Canker Caused by Binucleate Rhizoctonia AG-A in Jilin Province, China

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) stem canker caused by Rhizoctonia solani occurs in potato-growing regions all over the world and can result in severe losses in crop yield and quality. In late July 2011, potato subterraneous stems with stem cankers composed of brownish, sunken lesions were observed at 15% incidence in seven sites in Jilin Province, northeast China. Samples were collected, and stem pieces (each 5 mm long) taken from the margins of the healthy and diseased tissues were surface-disinfested with 0.5% NaOCl for 2 min, rinsed with sterilized water, dried, then placed on potato dextrose agar at 25°C in the dark. Three (designated JL-3, JL-5-1, and JL-6) of seven Rhizoctonia isolates that developed from single hyphal tip transfers were identified preliminarily as binucleate Rhizoctonia (BNR) isolates (teleomorph Ceratobasidium Rogers). The colonies were white or light gray with fluffy aerial hyphae and no sclerotia after 14 days in culture. Hyphal cells were binucleate when stained with 4'-6-diamidino-2-phenylindole. Average hyphal diameters (mean ± standard deviation) of isolates JL-3, JL-5-1, and JL-6 were 4.8 ± 0.5 μm (range 4.1 to 5.6 μm), 4.4 ± 0.4 μm (range 3.9 to 5.2 μm), and 4.5 ± 0.3 μm (range 4.0 to 5.0 μm), respectively. The internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of ribosomal DNA was amplified from genomic DNA with primers ITS1 and ITS4 and sequenced. BLASTn analysis indicated that the resulting sequences (GenBank Accession Nos. JX885459, JX885460, and JX885461 for JL-3, JL-5-1, and JL-6, respectively) were 100% identical to that of a Ceratobasidium sp. AG-A isolate CHR08-10 (HQ270171). So the three isolates were identified as BNR AG-A based on morphological and molecular characteristics. To determine pathogenicity of the BNR isolates, potato seed tubers (cv. Favorita), each with 3- to 5-mm-long sprouts, were inoculated with wheat seeds (sterilized by autoclaving twice at 121°C for 1 h with a 24-h interval between autoclavings) colonized with each isolate (1). One sprouted potato tuber was planted in a plastic pot with a single colonized wheat seed placed 10 mm above the uppermost sprout tip in a sand/sawdust mixture (1:2 v/v). Plants were incubated in a glasshouse at 25 to 27°C, and assessed after 21 days. The test was performed on 20 plants/isolate and the experiment was repeated. The incidence of plants inoculated with JL-3, JL-5-1, and JL-6 that developed stem canker symptoms averaged 11.1, 23.5, and 28.6%, respectively, whereas all control plants inoculated with sterilized wheat seeds remained asymptomatic. Rhizoctonia spp. were not reisolated from the control plants, whereas BNR isolates were reisolated consistently from symptomatic stems of the inoculated plants, and the identity confirmed by morphological and molecular characteristics as described above, fulfilling Koch's postulates. BNR AG-A has been reported to be pathogenic on soybean (Glycine max), pea (Pisum sativum), snap bean (Phaseolus vulgaris), and pak choi (Brassica chinensis) in China (4). Isolates of R. solani AG-3 are most often associated with potato stem canker (2), although unidentified BNR isolates were reported to cause mild symptoms on potato sprouts in Finland (1), and small lesions on potato roots and stems in the United Kingdom (3). To our knowledge, this is the first report of BNR AG-A causing potato stem canker in Jilin Province, one of the main potato-producing areas of China. References: (1) M. J. Lehtonen et al. Plant Pathol. 57:141, 2008. (2) L. Tsror. J. Phytopatology 158:649, 2010. (3) J. W. Woodhall et al. New Dis. Rep. 23:31, 2011. (4) G. H. Yang et al. J. Phytopathology 153:333, 2005.

First Report of Potato Stem Canker Caused by Rhizoctonia solani AG4 HGII in Gansu Province, China

Black scurf and stem canker on potato (Solanum tuberosum L.), caused by Rhizoctonia solani, is an important disease throughout the world. Isolates of R. solani AG3 are the principal cause of these diseases on potato (2). In August 2011, at the tuber bulking growth stage, symptoms typically associated stem canker, including dark brown stem lesions, were observed on 20% of potato plants collected from 23 locations (about 2,000 ha) in Gansu Province, northwest China. Stem pieces (each 5 mm long) taken from the margins of the healthy and diseased tissues were surface-disinfected with 0.5% NaOCl for 2 min, rinsed with sterilized water, dried, then placed on potato dextrose agar (PDA) at 25°C in the dark. Twenty-nine fungal isolates taken from single hyphal tips were identified as R. solani based on morphological traits, including mycelium branched at right angles with a septum near the branch and a slight constriction at the branch base. Hyphal cells were determined to be multinucleate (4 to 10 nuclei/cell) when stained with 4'-6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI). Anastomosis groups were determined by pairing with reference strains (kindly provided by N. Kondo, Hokkaido University, Japan), and three isolates (designed GS-15, GS-24, and GS-25) anastomosed with isolates of R. solani AG4. The internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of rDNA was amplified from genomic DNA of each of the three isolates with primers ITS1 and ITS4. The resulting sequences (GenBank Accession Nos. JX843818, JX843819, and JX843820) were 100% identical to those of >10 R. solani AG4 HGII isolates (e.g., HQ629873.1; isolate ND13). Therefore, based on the anastomosis assay and molecular characteristics, the three isolates were identified as R. solani AG4 HGII. To determine pathogenicity of the AG4 HGII isolates, potato seed tubers (cv. Favorita) with 3 to 5 mm long sprouts were inoculated with wheat seeds (sterilized by autoclaving twice at 121°C for 1 h with a 24 h interval between autoclavings) colonized with each isolate (1). One sprouted tuber was planted in a sterilized plastic pot (1 liter) with a single colonized wheat seed placed 10 mm above the uppermost sprout tip in a sand/sawdust mixture (1:2 v/v, with dry heat sterilization at 161°C for 4 h before use). Plants were incubated in a glasshouse maintained at 25 to 27°C. The test was performed on 20 plants for each isolate, and the experiment was repeated. After 3 weeks, control plants inoculated with sterilized wheat seeds remained asymptomatic, and no Rhizoctonia spp. were isolated from these plants, whereas all inoculated plants showed symptoms of stem canker. R. solani AG4 HGII was reisolated consistently from symptomatic stems, and the identity of the reisolates confirmed by the morphological and molecular characteristics mentioned above, fulfilling Koch's postulates. Potato stem canker caused by R. solani AG4 HGII was reported previously in the United States (3). To our knowledge, this is the first report of R. solani AG4 HGII causing stem canker on potato in Gansu Province, the main potato-producing area of China. R. solani AG4 HGII can cause sheath blight on corn in China (4), which is commonly grown in rotation with potato. This rotation could increase the risk of soilborne infection to either crop by R. solani AG4 HGII. References: (1) M. J. Lehtonen et al. Plant Pathol. 57:141, 2008. (2) L. Tsror. J. Phytopathol. 158:649, 2010. (3) J. W. Woodhall et al. Plant Dis. 96:1701, 2012. (4) X. Zhou et al. J. Shenyang Agric. Univ. 43:33, 2012.

Isolation of a novel basic FGF-binding peptide with potent antiangiogenetic activity

Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), which plays an important role in tumour angiogenesis and progression, provides a potential target for cancer therapy. Here we screened a phage display heptapeptide library with bFGF and identified 11 specific bFGF-binding phage clones. Two of these clones had identical sequence and the corresponding peptide (referred to as P7) showed high homology to the immunoglobulin-like (Ig-like) domain III (D3) of high-affinity bFGF receptors, FGFR1 (IIIc) and FGFR2 (IIIc). The P7 peptide and its corresponding motif in D3 of FGFRs both carried negative charges and shared similar hydrophobic profiles. Functional analysis demonstrated that synthetic P7 peptides mediate strong inhibition of bFGF-induced cell proliferation and neovascularization. Our results demonstrate that the P7 peptide is a potent bFGF antagonist with strong antiangiogenetic activity, and might have therapeutic potential in cancer therapy.

GDNF stimulates the proliferation of cultured mouse immature Sertoli cells via its receptor subunit NCAM and ERK1/2 signaling pathway

Background

The proliferation and final density of Sertoli cells in the testis are regulated by hormones and local factors. Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), a distantly related member of the transforming growth factor-β superfamily, and its receptor subunits GDNF family receptor alpha 1 (GFRα1), RET tyrosine kinase, and neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM) have been reported to be expressed in the testis and involved in the regulation of proliferation of immature Sertoli cells (ISCs). However, the expression patterns of these receptor subunits and the downstream signaling pathways have not been addressed in ISCs.

Results

In the present study, we have reported that the proliferation of cultured ISCs was significantly enhanced by GDNF. The receptor subunits GFRα1 and NCAM but not RET were expressed in ISCs, and the stimulatory effect of GDNF on the proliferation of ISCs was significantly reduced by anti-NCAM antibody blocking or siRNA that specifically targets NCAM mRNA. Additionally, the ERK1/2 inhibitor, PD98059, completely abolished the mitogenic effect of GDNF on ISCs.

Conclusions

GDNF stimulates the proliferation of ISCs via its receptor subunit NCAM and the consequent activation of the ERK1/2 signaling pathway.