Dietary supplementation of proteases on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, blood characteristics and gut microbiota of growing pigs fed sorghum-based diets

Low-tannin sorghum is an excellent energy source in pig diets. However, sorghum contains several anti-nutritional factors that may have negative effects on nutrient digestibility. The impacts of proteases on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, blood parameters, and gut microbiota of growing pigs fed sorghum-based diets were studied in this study. Ninety-six pigs (20.66 ± 0.65 kg BW) were allocated into three groups (eight pens/group, four pigs/pen): (1) CON (control diet, sorghum-based diet included 66.98% sorghum), (2) PRO1 (CON + 200 mg/kg proteases), (3) PRO2 (CON + 400 mg/kg proteases) for 28 d. No differences were observed in growth performance and apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of nutrients between CON and PRO1 groups. Pigs fed PRO2 diet had increased (P < 0.05) BW on d 21 and 28, and increased (P < 0.05) average daily gain during d 14-21 and the overall period compared with pigs fed CON diet. In addition, pigs fed PRO2 diet had improved (P < 0.05) ATTD of gross energy, CP, and DM compared with pigs fed CON and PRO1 diets. Pigs fed PRO2 diet had lower (P < 0.05) plasma globulin (GLB) level and higher (P < 0.05) plasma glucose, albumin (ALB) and immunoglobulin G levels, and ALB/GLB ratio than pigs fed CON and PRO1 diets. Furthermore, pigs fed PRO2 diet had decreased (P < 0.05) the relative abundance of Acidobacteriota at the phylum level and increased (P < 0.05) the relative abundance of Prevotella_9 at the genus level. The linear discriminant analysis effect size analysis also showed that pigs fed PRO2 diet had significantly enriched short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria, such as Subdoligranulum and Parabacteroides. In conclusion, protease supplementation at 400 mg/kg improved the growth performance of growing pigs fed sorghum-based diets, which may be attributed to the improvement of nutrient digestibility, host metabolism, immune status and associated with the altered gut microbiota profiles.

Antitumor effect of tubeimoside-I on murine colorectal cancers through PKM2-dependent pyroptosis and immunomodulation

Induction of cancer cell death is an established treatment strategy, but chemotherapy drug-mediated apoptosis can be evaded by many tumors. Pyroptosis is a type of inflammatory programmed cell death (PCD) that is important for organism immunity. Tubeimoside-I (TBMS1) is a plant-derived component that exhibits antitumor activity. However, it is unclear how TBMS1 induces pyroptosis to inhibit colorectal cancer (CRC). In this study, we demonstrated that TBMS1 is able to induce pyroptosis in murine CRC cells and releases pro-inflammatory cytokines. Mechanistically, we found that TBMS1 inhibits CRC cell proliferation and migration and induces pyroptosis by activating caspase-3 and cleaving gasdermin E (GSDME) through the inhibition of PKM2. In the animal experiments, TBMS1 attenuated the weight of solid tumors, increased the proportion of CD8+ cytotoxic T cells, and reduced the content of M2-type macrophages in the spleen of tumor-bearing mice. Furthermore, TBMS1 inhibited M2-type polarization by blocking STAT6 pathway activation in RAW 264.7 cells. To sum up, our findings suggest that TBMS1 triggers pyroptosis in CRC by acting on the PKM2/caspase-3/GSDME signaling pathway. Additionally, it modulates the antitumor immune response in CRC murine models. This study provides a promising basis for the potential use of TBMS1 in treating CRC.

Protective effect of liriodendrin on IgG immune complex-induced acute lung injury via inhibiting SRC/STAT3/MAPK signaling pathway: a network pharmacology research

The primary objectives of this research were to investigate the protective effects of liriodendrin against IgG immune complex (IgG-IC)-induced acute lung injury (ALI) and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. This study employed a mouse and cell model of IgG-IC-induced acute lung injury. Lung tissue was stained with hematoxylin-eosin to observe pathological alterations and arterial blood gas analysis was tested. Inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), were measured using ELISA. The mRNA expression of inflammatory cytokines was assessed via RT-qPCR. Molecular docking and enrichment analysis were combined to identify the most potential signaling pathways modulated by liriodendrin, which were then verified using western blot analysis in IgG-IC-induced ALI models. We identified 253 shared targets between liriodendrin and IgG-IC-induced acute lung injury from the database. Through network pharmacology, enrichment analysis, and molecular docking, SRC was determined to be the most closely associated target of liriodendrin in IgG-IC-induced ALI. Pretreatment with liriodendrin notably reduced the increased cytokine secretion of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. Histopathological analysis of lung tissue demonstrated a protective effect of liriodendrin on IgG-IC-induced acute lung injury in mice. Arterial blood gas analysis showed liriodendrin ameliorated acidosis and hypoxemia efficiently. Further studies revealed that liriodendrin pretreatment substantially attenuated the elevated phosphorylation levels of SRC's downstream components (JNK, P38, and STAT3), suggesting that liriodendrin may protect against IgG-IC-induced ALI via the SRC/STAT3/MAPK pathway. Our findings indicate that liriodendrin protects against IgG-IC-induced acute lung injury by inhibiting the SRC/STAT3/MAPK signaling pathway, suggesting that liriodendrin may serve as a potential treatment for acute lung injury caused by IgG-IC.

Syringaresinol alleviates IgG immune complex induced acute lung injury via activating PPARγ and suppressing pyroptosis

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a life-threatening condition characterized by severe lung inflammation and tissue damage. In this study, we investigate the potential therapeutic efficacy of (+)-Syringaresinol (SYG), a natural compound known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, in alleviating ALI induced by IgG immune complexes (IgG-IC). Using MH-S cells as a model, we explore SYG's ability to target peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) and its anti-inflammatory properties. Our comprehensive investigation aims to elucidate the specific molecular mechanisms underlying SYG's effects against pyroptosis, as revealed through transcriptomic analysis. Validation in C57BL/6 mice provides in vivo support. Our findings indicate that SYG effectively mitigates IgG-IC-induced lung damage, as evidenced by a significant reduction in lung inflammation and tissue injury. SYG treatment notably decreases pro-inflammatory cytokine levels (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β) in both lung tissue and cells. Molecular docking analysis reveals SYG's robust binding to PPARγ, leading to the inhibition of IgG-IC-induced inflammatory signaling pathways. Additionally, transcriptomic analysis unveils SYG's potential in suppressing macrophage pyroptosis, potentially through the downregulation of key inflammatory mediators (NLRP3, GSDMD, Caspase-1). In summary, our study presents compelling evidence supporting SYG as an effective therapeutic agent for ALI. SYG's activation of PPARγ contributes to the suppression of NF-κB and C/EBPs expression, thereby mitigating inflammation. Moreover, SYG demonstrates the ability to inhibit macrophage pyroptosis by targeting the NLRP3/GSDMD/caspase-1 axis.

Effects of dietary methionine supplementation from different sources on growth performance and meat quality of barrows and gilts

Methionine is indispensable for growth and meat formation in pigs. However, it is still unclear that increasing dietary sulphur-containing amino acid (SAA) levels using different methionine sources affects the growth performance and meat quality of barrows and gilts. To investigate this, 144 pigs (half barrows and half gilts) were fed the control (100% SAA, CON), DL-Methionine (125% SAA, DL-Met)-supplemented, or OH-Methionine (125% SAA, OH-Met)-supplemented diets during the 11-110 kg period. The results showed that plasma methionine levels varied among treatments during the experimental phase, with increased plasma methionine levels observed following increased SAA consumption during the 25-45 kg period. In contrast, pigs fed the DL-Met diet had lower plasma methionine levels than those fed the CON diet (95-110 kg). Additionally, gilts fed the DL-Met or OH-Met diets showed decreased drip loss in longissimus lumborum muscle (LM) compared to CON-fed gilts. OH-Met-fed gilts had higher pH45min values than those fed the CON or DL-Met diets, whereas OH-Met-fed barrows had higher L45min values than those fed the CON or DL-Met diets. Moreover, increased consumption of SAA, regardless of the methionine source, tended to decrease the shear force of the LM in pigs. In conclusion, this study indicates that increasing dietary levels of SAA (+25%) appeared to improve the meat quality of gilts by decreasing drip loss and increasing meat tenderness.

Saikosaponin d modulates the polarization of tumor-associated macrophages by deactivating the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway in murine models of pancreatic cancer

The tumor microenvironment (TME) of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) poses a major obstacle to traditional and immunomodulatory cancer therapies and is closely associated with macrophage polarization. Saikosaponin d (SSd), a major active component of triterpene saponins derived from Bupleurum falcatum, has anti-inflammatory and antitumor activities. However, whether SSd can regulate immune cells during the development of the TME in PDAC remains unknown. In the present study, we aimed to analyze the role of SSd in regulating immune cells in the PDAC TME, especially the polarization of macrophages, and examine the related mechanisms. An orthotopic PDAC cancer model was used to investigate the antitumor activities and the regulation of immune cells in vivo. In vitro, bone marrow mononuclear (BM-MNC) cells and RAW 264.7 cells were used to induce the M2 macrophage phenotype and examine the effects and molecular mechanism of SSd on M2 macrophage polarization. The results revealed that SSd could directly inhibit the apoptosis and invasion of pancreatic cancer cells, modulate the immunosuppressive microenvironment and reactivate the local immune response, especially by decreasing the shift toward M2 macrophage polarization by downregulating phosphorylated STAT6 levels and the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. Furthermore, 740-Y-P (PI3K activator) was used to verify that SSd inhibited M2 polarization in RAW264.7 cells via the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. In conclusion, this study provided experimental evidence of the antitumor effect of SSd, especially in the regulation of M2 macrophage polarization, and demonstrated that SSd may be a promising therapeutic agent in PDAC.

[Revealing the role of gut microbiota in immune regulation and organ damage in sepsis using 16s rRNA and untargeted metabolomics]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the composition and metabolites of gut microbiota in septic rats by fecal 16s rRNA sequencing and untargeted metabolomics, and to preliminarily explore the effect and potential mechanism of gut microbiota and its metabolites on inflammatory response and multiple organ damage in sepsis.

METHODS

Ten males healthy male Wistar rats were randomly divided into a sham operated group (Sham group) and sepsis model group (CLP group) using a random number table method, with 5 rats in each group. A rat sepsis model was established by cecal ligation and perforation (CLP) method. The animals were sacrificed 24 hours after modeling, the levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in peripheral blood were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was used to observe the pathological changes of lung and kidney tissues, and the pathological scores were evaluated. Fecal samples were collected, and 16s rRNA high-throughput sequencing and non-targeted metabolomics were used to screen microbiota, metabolites and potential signal pathways that may play an important role in disease outcomes. Spearman correlation analysis was conducted to jointly analyze the gut microbiota and non-targeted metabolism.

RESULTS

Compared with the Sham group, the degree of pathological damage to lung and kidney tissues in the CLP group was significantly increased (lung tissue score: 3.60±0.80 vs. 0.00±0.00, kidney tissue score: 2.40±0.80 vs. 0.00±0.00, both P < 0.01), the level of IL-6 and TNF-α in peripheral blood significantly increased [TNF-α (ng/L): 248.12±55.98 vs. 143.28±36.57, IL-6 (ng/L): 260.26±39.47 vs. 116.01±26.43, both P < 0.05], the species diversity of intestinal flora of rats in the CLP group was significantly reduced, the relative abundance of Morganella, Bacteroides and Escherichia-Shigella were significantly increased, and the relative abundance of Lachnospiraceae NK4A136, Ruminococcus, Romboutsia and Roseburia were significantly reduced. In addition, the biosynthesis and bile secretion of phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan in the gut microbiota of the CLP group were significantly increased, while the biosynthesis of secondary bile acids was significantly reduced. There was a significant correlation between differential metabolites and differential microbiota.

CONCLUSIONS

Sepsis can cause significant changes in the characteristics of gut microbiota and fecal metabolites in rats, which provides a basis for translational research to seek new targets for the treatment of sepsis.

Verbenalin alleviates acute lung injury induced by sepsis and IgG immune complex through GPR18 receptor

Acute lung injury is significantly associated with the aberrant activation and pyroptosis of alveolar macrophages. Targeting the GPR18 receptor presents a potential therapeutic approach to mitigate inflammation. Verbenalin, a prominent component of Verbena in Xuanfeibaidu (XFBD) granules, is recommended for treating COVID-19. In this study, we demonstrate the therapeutic effect of verbenalin on lung injury through direct binding to the GPR18 receptor. Verbenalin inhibits the activation of inflammatory signaling pathways induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and IgG immune complex (IgG IC) via GPR18 receptor activation. The structural basis for verbenalin's effect on GPR18 activation is elucidated through molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations. Furthermore, we establish that IgG IC induces macrophage pyroptosis by upregulating the expression of GSDME and GSDMD through CEBP-δ activation, while verbenalin inhibits this process. Additionally, we provide the first evidence that IgG IC promotes the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), and verbenalin suppresses NETs formation. Collectively, our findings indicate that verbenalin functions as a "phytoresolvin" to promote inflammation regression and suggests that targeting the C/EBP-δ/GSDMD/GSDME axis to inhibit macrophage pyroptosis may represent a novel strategy for treating acute lung injury and sepsis.

S1P/S1PR2 promote pancreatic stellate cell activation and pancreatic fibrosis in chronic pancreatitis by regulating autophagy and the NLRP3 inflammasome

Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is a bioactive lipid molecule that governs various functions by embedding its receptor, S1PR, in different cells. Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is characterized by pancreatic fibrosis via activation of pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs). However, the effect of S1P on CP and PSC activation is still unknown. Here, we conducted a series of experiments to explore the effect of S1P on a CP rat model and primary cultured PSCs. In vivo, CP was induced by intravenous injection of dibutyltin dichloride. S1P was administered at a dosage of 200 μg/kg body weight per day by intraperitoneal injection. After 4 weeks, serum, plasma and pancreas samples were collected for molecular analysis and histological detection. In vitro, PSCs were isolated and cultured for treatment with different doses of S1P. 3 MA and MCC950 were used to determine the effect of S1P on PSC activation by regulating autophagy and the NLRP3 inflammasome. JTE013 and Si-S1PR2 were applied to verify that the functions of S1P were realized by combining with S1PR2. Cells were collected for RT‒PCR, western blotting and immunofluorescence. The results showed that S1P was increased in the plasma and pancreatic tissue of CP rats. When S1P was administered to CP rats, the function and histomorphology of the pancreas were severely impaired. In addition, S1P promoted PSC activation, heightened autophagy and enhanced the NLRP3 inflammasome in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, S1PR2 mediated the effect of S1P on PSC activation by regulating autophagy and the NLRP3 inflammasome sequentially. In conclusion, S1P binding to S1PR2 promoted PSC activation and pancreatic fibrosis in CP by regulating autophagy and the NLRP3 inflammasome. These findings provide a theoretical basis for targeting S1P/S1PR2 to treat pancreatic fibrosis and further suggest that considering the role of autophagy and the NLRP3 inflammasome may help with the treatment pancreatic fibrosis.

Xuanfei Baidu Decoction suppresses complement overactivation and ameliorates IgG immune complex-induced acute lung injury by inhibiting JAK2/STAT3/SOCS3 and NF-κB signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

The significant clinical efficacy of Xuanfei Baidu Decoction (XFBD) is proven in the treatment of patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in China. However, the mechanisms of XFBD against acute lung injury (ALI) are still poorly understood.

METHODS

In vivo, the mouse model of ALI was induced by IgG immune complexes (IgG-IC), and then XFBD (4g/kg, 8g/kg) were administered by gavage respectively. 24 h after inducing ALI, the lungs were collected for histological and molecular analysis. In vitro, alveolar macrophages inflammation models induced by IgG-IC were performed and treated with different dosage of XFBD-containing serum to investigate the protective role and molecular mechanisms of XFBD.

RESULTS

The results revealed that XFBD mitigated lung injury and significantly downregulated the production of pro-inflammatory mediators in lung tissues and macrophages upon IgG-IC stimulation. Notably, XFBD attenuated C3a and C5a generation, inhibited the expression of C3aR and C5aR and suppressed the activation of JAK2/STAT3/SOCS3 and NF-κB signaling pathway in lung tissues and macrophages induced by IgG-IC. Moreover, in vitro experiments, we verified that Colivelin TFA (CAF, STAT3 activator) and C5a treatment markedly elevated the IgG-IC-triggered inflammatory responses in macrophages and XFBD weakened the effects of CAF or C5a.

CONCLUSION

XFBD suppressed complement overactivation and ameliorated IgG immune complex-induced acute lung injury by inhibiting JAK2/STAT3/SOCS3 and NF-κB signaling pathway. These data contribute to understanding the mechanisms of XFBD in COVID-19 treatment.

Isobavachalcone Activates Antitumor Immunity on Orthotopic Pancreatic Cancer Model: A Screening and Validation

Pancreatic cancer is accompanied by poor prognosis and accounts for a significant number of deaths every year. Since Psoralea corylifolia L. (PCL) possesses a broad spectrum of bioactivities, it is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine. The study explored potential antitumor agents of PCL and underlying mechanisms in vitro and vivo. Based on network pharmacology, bioinformatics, and molecular docking, we considered isobavachalcone (IBC) as a valuable compound. The activity and potential mechanisms of IBC were investigated by RT-qPCR, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry. It was confirmed that IBC could inhibit Panc 02 cell proliferation and induce apoptosis via increasing the production of reactive oxygen species. IBC could attenuate the weight of solid tumors, increase CD8⁺ T cells, and reduce M2 macrophages in the tumor tissue and spleen. Another promising finding was that IBC alleviated the proportion of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) in the tumor tissue but had no change in the spleen. The study of pharmacological effects of IBC was carried out and suggested IBC restrained M2-like polarization of RAW 264.7 cells by inhibiting the expression of ARG1 and MRC1 and suppressed the expression of ARG1 and TGF-β in bone marrow-derived MDSC. In summary, this research screened IBC as an antineoplastic agent, which could attenuate the growth of pancreatic cancer via activating the immune activity and inducing cell apoptosis. It might be a reference for the antitumor ability of IBC and the treatment of the tumor microenvironment in pancreatic cancer.

3,4-dihydroxyphenylethyl alcohol glycoside reduces acetaminophen-induced acute liver failure in mice by inhibiting hepatocyte ferroptosis and pyroptosis

APAP is one of the most commonly used antipyretic and pain medications, but excessive use can cause liver toxicity and damage. 3,4-dihydroxyphenylethyl alcohol glycoside (DAG) is a component isolated from Sargentodoxa cuneata known to have anti-apoptotic, anti-oxidation and anti-inflammatory effects. However, the effects of DAG on acute liver failure (ALF) are largely unknown. The purpose of this study is to study the protective effects and mechanism of DAG on APAP-induced ALF in mice. We established an ALF model in adult male pathogen-free C57BL/6 mice treated with APAP (300 mg/kg) by intraperitoneal injection and resolved by 24 h. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining was used to evaluate the pathological changes in mouse liver tissue. The infiltration of neutrophils in liver tissue and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in AML12 cells were analyzed by flow cytometry. The levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were analyzed using relevant kits. Our results show that DAG reduced APAP-induced serum ALT and AST levels, histopathological changes, liver neutrophil infiltration and proinflammatory cytokines production, also attenuated the accumulation of MDA and the exhaustion of GSH, CAT and SOD. In vitro experiment indicated that DAG dose-dependently inhibited APAP-induced the levels of pro-inflammatory factors (IL-1β and IL18), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) and preventing GSH depletion in mouse AML12 hepatocytes. More interestingly, DAG inhibited the expression of ERK, HO-1, NLRP3, Caspase1 (p20) and Gasdermin-D and upregulated the expression of GPX4 in liver tissues and AML12hepatocytes. Therefore, our results indicate that DAG may act as a potential agent to treat ALF induced by APAP by inhibiting hepatocyte ferroptosis and pyroptosis.

Sodium MRI at 7T for Early Response Evaluation of Intracranial Tumors following Stereotactic Radiotherapy Using the CyberKnife

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Conventionally, early treatment response to stereotactic radiotherapy in intracranial tumors is often determined by structural MR imaging. Tissue sodium concentration is altered by cellular integrity and energy status in cells. In this study, we aimed to investigate the feasibility of sodium MR imaging at 7T for the preliminary evaluation of radiotherapeutic efficacy for intracranial tumors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data were collected from 16 patients (12 men and 4 women, 24-75 years of age) with 22 intracranial tumors who were treated with stereotactic radiation therapy using CyberKnife at our institution between December 1, 2016, and August 15, 2019. Sodium MR imaging was performed at 7T before and 48 hours, 1 week, and 1 month after CyberKnife radiation therapy. Tissue sodium concentration (TSC) was calculated and analyzed based on manually labeled regions of tumors.

RESULTS

Ultra-high-field sodium MR imaging clearly showed the intratumoral signal, which is significantly higher than that of normal tissue (t = 5.250, P <.001)., but the edema zone has some influence. The average TSC ratios of tumor to CSF in the 22 tumors, contralateral normal tissues, edema zones, frontal cortex, and frontal white matter were 0.66 (range, 0.23-1.5), 0.30 (range, 0.15-0.43), 0.58 (range, 0.25-1.21), 0.25 (range, 0.17-0.42), and 0.30 (range, 0.19-0.49), respectively. A total of 12 tumors in 8 patients were scanned at 48 hours, 1 week, and 1 month after treatment. The average TSC at 48 hours after treatment was 0.06 higher than that before treatment and began to decrease at 1 week. The TSC ratios of 10 continued to decline and 2 tumors increased at 1 month, respectively. Tumor volume decreased by 2.4%-99% after 3 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Changes in the TSC can be quantified by sodium MR imaging at 7T and used to detect radiobiologic alterations in intracranial tumors at early time points after CyberKnife radiation therapy.

Syringaresinol attenuates sepsis-induced cardiac dysfunction by inhibiting inflammation and pyroptosis in mice

The mortality of sepsis-induced cardiac dysfunction (SICD) is very high due to the complex pathophysiological mechanism. Syringaresinol (SYR) is a natural abstract which possesses anti-inflammatory property. The present study aims was to identify the protective impact of SYR on sepsis-induced cardiac dysfunction and investigate the specific mechanisms. We found that SYR improved the cardiac function and alleviated myocardial injury in mice that subjected to cecal ligation and puncture, in addition, SIRT1 expression was significantly elevated after SYR treatment compared to sepsis group both in vivo and in vitro, along with suppression of NLRP3 activation and proinflammatory cytokines release. However, SIRT1 inhibitor EX427 abolished the impact of SYR on LPS-induced pyroptosis in cardiomyocytes. Furthermore, molecular docking analysis predicted that there is high affinity between SYR and estrogen receptor (ER), ER inhibitor ICI182780, the specific ERβ inhibitor PHTP and the specific ERαinhibitor AZD9496 were used to examine the role of ER in the protective effect of SYR against SICD, and the results suggested that ER activation was essential for the cardioprotective function of SYR. In conclusion, SYR ameliorates SICD via the ER/SIRT1/NLRP3/GSDMD pathway.

Hydroxytyrosol Inhibits MDSCs and Promotes M1 Macrophages in Mice With Orthotopic Pancreatic Tumor

The poor immunotherapy of pancreatic cancer is mainly due to its complex immunosuppressive microenvironment. The Mediterranean diet contributes to low cancer incidence. Hydroxytyrosol (HT) derived from olive oil has multiple health-promoting effects, but its therapeutic effect on pancreatic cancer remains controversial. Here, we evaluated the inhibitory effect of HT on mouse pancreatic cancer, and the effect of HT on the immune microenvironment. We found that HT can inhibit the proliferation of Panc 02 cells through signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 3/Cyclin D1 signaling pathway. In the tumor-bearing mice treated with HT, the orthotopic pancreatic tumors were suppressed, accompanied by a decrease in the proportion of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and an increase in the proportion of M1 macrophages. In addition, we found that HT inhibited the expression of immunosuppressive molecules in bone marrow (BM)-derived MDSCs, as well as down-regulated CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein beta (C/EBPβ) and phosphorylation of STAT3. Moreover, HT enhanced the anti-tumor effect of anti-CD47 antibody in vivo. HT combined with plumbagin (PLB) induced more Panc 02 cells death than HT or PLB alone. This combination therapy not only inhibited the accumulation of MDSCs, but also promoted the infiltration of CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells in the tumors. In summary, HT is a potential immunomodulatory drug for the treatment of pancreatic cancer.

Syringaresinol Resisted Sepsis-Induced Acute Lung Injury by Suppressing Pyroptosis Via the Oestrogen Receptor-β Signalling Pathway

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a common lung disease characterized by severe acute inflammatory lung injury in patients with sepsis. Syringaresinol (SYR) has been reported to have anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory effects, but whether it could prevent pyroptosis to improve sepsis-induced ALI remains unclear. The purpose of this work was to examine the impact of SYR on sepsis-induced ALI and investigate the underlying mechanisms. The ALI model was induced by caecal ligation and puncture (CLP) in C57BL/6 mice, structural damage in the lung tissues was determined using haematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining, and the levels of related inflammatory cytokines and macrophage polarization were examined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) and flow cytometry, respectively. The activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome and the protein levels of TLR4, NF-κB and MAPKs was measured by western blotting. The results demonstrated that SYR pretreatment significantly reduced lung tissue histological damage, inhibited the production of proinflammatory cytokines and albumin in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), and decreased myeloperoxidase (MPO) levels, thereby alleviating lung tissue injury. Meanwhile, septic mice treated with SYR displayed a higher survival rate and lower percentage of M1 macrophages in the BALF and spleen than septic mice. In addition, lung tissues from the CLP + SYR group exhibited downregulated protein expression of NLRP3, ASC, GSDMD caspase-1 p20 and TLR4, along with decreased phosphorylated levels of NF-κB, ERK, JNK and P38, indicating that SYR administration effectively prevented CLP-induced pyroptosis in the lung. SYR also suppressed LPS-induced pyroptosis in RAW 264.7 cells by inhibiting the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome, which was abolished by an oestrogen receptor-β (ERβ) antagonist (PHTPP). In conclusion, SYR exerted protective effects on CLP-induced ALI via the oestrogen receptor-β signalling pathway.

Saikosaponin D Attenuates Pancreatic Injury Through Suppressing the Apoptosis of Acinar Cell via Modulation of the MAPK Signaling Pathway

Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is a progressive fibro-inflammatory syndrome. The damage of acinar cells is the main cause of inflammation and the activation of pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs), which can thereby possibly further aggravate the apoptosis of more acinar cells. Saikosaponind (SSd), a major active ingredient derived from Chinese medicinal herb bupleurum falcatum, which exerted multiple pharmacological effects. However, it is not clear whether SSd protects pancreatic injury of CP via regulating the apoptosis of pancreatic acinar cells. This study systematically investigated the effect of SSd on pancreatic injury of CP in vivo and in vitro. The results revealed that SSd attenuate pancreatic damage, decrease the apoptosis and suppress the phosphorylation level of MAPK family proteins (JNK1/2, ERK1/2, and p38 MAPK) significantly in the pancreas of CP rats. In addition, SSd markedly reduced the apoptosis and inflammation of pancreatic acinar AR42J cells induced by cerulein, a drug induced CP, or Conditioned Medium from PSCs (PSCs-CM) or the combination of PSCs-CM and cerulein. Moreover, SSd significantly inhibited the activated phosphorylation of JNK1/2, ERK1/2, and p38 MAPK induced by cerulein or the combination of PSCs-CM and cerulein in AR42J cells. Furthermore, SSd treatment markedly decreased the protein levels of p-JNK and p-p38 MAPK caused by PSCs-CM alone. In conclusion, SSd ameliorated pancreatic injury, suppressed AR42J inflammation and apoptosis induced by cerulein, interrupted the effect of PSCs-CM on AR42J cells inflammation and apoptosis, possibly through MAPK pathway.

Chaihu Guizhi Ganjiang Decoction Ameliorates Pancreatic Fibrosis via JNK/mTOR Signaling Pathway

Pancreatic fibrosis is a pathological characteristic of chronic pancreatitis (CP) and pancreatic cancer. Chaihu Guizhi Ganjiang Decoction (CGGD) is a traditional Chinese medicine, which is widely used in the clinical treatment of digestive diseases. However, the potential anti-fibrosis mechanism of CGGD in treating CP remains unclear. Here, we conducted a series of experiments to examine the effect of CGGD on the CP rat model and primary isolated pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs). The results revealed that CGGD attenuated pancreatic damage, decreased collagen deposition, and inhibited PSC activation in the pancreas of CP rats. However, compared with the CP group, CGGD had no effect on body weight and serum amylase and lipase. In addition, CGGD suppressed autophagy by downregulating Atg5, Beclin-1, and LC3B and facilitated phosphorylation of mTOR and JNK in pancreatic tissues and PSCs. Moreover, the CGGD-containing serum also decreased LC3B or collagen I expression after rapamycin (mTOR inhibitor) or SP600125 (JNK inhibitor) treatment in PSCs. In conclusion, CGGD attenuated pancreatic fibrosis and PSC activation, possibly by suppressing autophagy of PSCs through the JNK/mTOR signaling pathway.

Saikosaponin A inhibits the activation of pancreatic stellate cells by suppressing autophagy and the NLRP3 inflammasome via the AMPK/mTOR pathway

Pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) are the main effector cells in the development of pancreatic fibrosis. Finding substances that inhibit PSC activation is an important approach to inhibiting pancreatic fibrosis. Saikosaponin A (SSa) has numerous pharmacological activities, but its effect on PSCs remains unknown. This study was conducted to explore the effects of SSa on PSC activation in cultured rat PSCs. Cell viability, proliferation, migration and apoptosis were evaluated by MTT assays, the iCELLigence System, Transwell assays and flow cytometry. Markers of PSC activation, autophagy and the NLRP3 inflammasome were measured by real-time PCR, immunofluorescence and western blotting. Rapamycin and phenformin hydrochloride were used to determine the effect of SSa via the AMPK/mTOR pathway. The results showed that SSa suppressed PSC viability, proliferation, and migration and promoted apoptosis. SSa inhibited PSC activation, restrained PSC autophagy and suppressed the NLRP3 inflammasome. In addition, there was interaction between autophagy and the NLRP3 inflammasome during SSa inhibition of PSCs. Moreover, promotion of p-AMPK increased autophagy and the NLRP3 inflammasome. Inhibition of p-mTOR increased autophagy and decreased the NLRP3 inflammasome. Our results indicated that SSa inhibited PSC activation by inhibiting PSC autophagy and the NLRP3 inflammasome via the AMPK/mTOR pathway. These findings provide a theoretical basis for the use of SSa to treat pancreatic fibrosis and further suggest that targeting autophagy and the NLRP3 inflammasome may provide new strategies for the treatment of pancreatic fibrosis.

Treatment with 3,4-dihydroxyphenylethyl alcohol glycoside ameliorates sepsis-induced ALI in mice by reducing inflammation and regulating M1 polarization

The bioactive phenylethanoid 3,4-dihydroxyphenylethyl alcohol glycoside (DAG) is a component isolated from Sargentodoxa cuneata. The effects of DAG on acute lung injury (ALI) are largely unknown. Here, the effects of DAG on sepsis-induced ALI were investigated, and the related mechanisms were explored. Male C57BL/6 mice were used to establish a sepsis-induced ALI model. Levels of inflammatory cytokines were determined using real-time quantitative reverse transcription PCRs (qRT-PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs). Pathological changes in the lung tissues were evaluated using haematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining. Mouse survival was quantified, and macrophage polarization was analyzed using flow cytometry. Our results showed that, in septic mice, pretreatment with DAG significantly improved survival, reduced histological damage in the lung, and suppressed the inflammatory response by inhibiting the activation of the NF-κB, STAT3, and p38 MAPK signaling pathways. Moreover, DAG treatment reduced the percentage of M1 macrophages in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and spleen. In addition, DAG treatment decreased the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and suppressed the activation of the NF-κB, STAT3, and p38 MAPK signaling pathways in LPS-induced MH-S cells. DAG treatment also reduced the relative abundances of M1 macrophages and M1 macrophage markers by suppressing the activation of the Notch1 signaling pathway. Thus, our results provided new insights for the development of drugs to treat ALI.

Purification of 3, 4-dihydroxyphenylethyl alcohol glycoside from Sargentodoxa cuneata (Oliv.) Rehd. et Wils. and its protective effects against DSS-induced colitis

Sargentodoxa cuneata is a tropical plant used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat intestinal inflammation. In this study, 3, 4-dihydroxyphenylethyl alcohol glycoside (DAG) was purified from the stem of S. cuneata using macroporous resins and its bioactivity was also investigated. The adsorption/desorption of DAG on macroporous resins was investigated systematically. HPD300 resin was selected as the most suitable medium for DAG purification. Further dynamic absorption/desorption experiments on the HPD300 column were conducted to obtain the optimal parameters. To obtain more than 95% DAG, a second stage procedure was developed to purify the DAG using SiliaSphere C18 with 8% v/v acetonitrile through elution at low pressure. Further investigation showed that DAG pretreatment significantly reversed the shortening of colon length, the increase in the disease activity index (DAI) scores and histological damage in the colon. Moreover, DAG greatly increased SOD and GPx activities, significantly decreased MPO and MDA activities and reduced the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the colon. Free radical scavenging activities of DAG were assessed using DPPH, with an IC50 value of 17.03 ug/mL. Additionally, DAG suppressed ROS and proinflammatory cytokine production in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages by suppressing activation of the ERK1/2 and NF-κB pathways. The results were indicative of the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of DAG. When viewed together, these findings indicated that DAG can be used to expand future pharmacological research and to potentially treat colitis.

Resveratrol alleviates sepsis-induced acute lung injury by suppressing inflammation and apoptosis of alveolar macrophage cells

Sepsis is a major cause of death in intensive care units. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of resveratrol (RSV) on sepsis-induced acute lung injury (ALI). The underlying molecular mechanisms were deciphered by both in vitro and in vivo experiments. Polymicrobial sepsis was induced in C57BL/6 mice by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). RSV pretreatment significantly attenuated CLP-induced acute lung injury, which was associated with enhanced expression of VEGF-B. The protective properties of RSV were assayed in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated MH-S cells. We determine that RSV administration inhibited the increased production of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β in LPS-stimulated MH-S cells, which was associated with inhibition of the nuclear factor-κB, P38, and ERK signaling pathways. We also provide evidence that RSV administration reduced LPS-induced apoptosis of MH-S cells by altering the unbalance of Bax/Bcl-2 and inhibiting LPS-induced autophagy. The inhibitory effects of RSV on cytokine levels and apoptosis of alveolar macrophages were both blocked by VEGF-B siRNA. Furthermore, RSV administration regulated LPS-induced C5aR and C5L2 expression, revealing an additional mechanism underlying RSV's anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptosis effects. Collectively, these results demonstrated that RSV was able to protect against sepsis-induced acute lung injury by activating the VEGF-B signaling pathway.

Amygdalin improves microcirculatory disturbance and attenuates pancreatic fibrosis by regulating the expression of endothelin-1 and calcitonin gene-related peptide in rats

BACKGROUND

The pathogenesis of chronic pancreatitis (CP) is a complex process of interaction between tissue injury and repair, which involves microcirculatory disturbance. Amygdalin, an effective component extracted from Semen Persicae (a kind of Chinese herbal medicine), can decrease blood viscosity and improve microcirculation. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic effects of amygdalin on pancreatic fibrosis in rats with CP.

METHODS

The rat CP model was induced by injecting dibutyltin dichloride (DBTC) into the right caudal vein. Amygdalin was administrated via the penile vein at a dose of 10 mg/(kg d) from the next day, after the induction of CP, once a day for the previous 3 days, and then once every 2 days, until the end of the experiment. Body weight was observed every 7 days. Pancreatic blood flow and histopathological changes were assessed at 28 days. The activation of pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) was estimated by the expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA). At the same time, the expression of platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB), transforming growth factor β-1 (TGFβ-1), endothelin-1 (ET-1), and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) of pancreatic tissues were detected.

RESULTS

Treatment of CP rats with amygdalin improved body weight and pancreatic blood flow, as well as alleviated pancreatic fibrosis and acinar destruction, accompanied by the down-regulation of the expressions of α-SMA, PDGF-BB, TGFβ-1, and ET-1, and the up-regulation of the CGRP's expression.

CONCLUSION

Amygdalin could reduce the production of pro-fibrotic cytokines, inhibit the activation of PSCs, and attenuate pancreatic fibrosis in a rat with CP. The mechanism probably includes improving microcirculatory disturbance by regulating the production of ET-1 and CGRP.

Nanoscale diffusive memristor crossbars as physical unclonable functions

Physical unclonable functions have emerged as promising hardware security primitives for device authentication and key generation in the era of the Internet of Things. Herein, we report novel physical unclonable functions built upon the crossbars of nanoscale diffusive memristors that translate the stochastic distribution of Ag clusters in a SiO₂ matrix into a random binary bitmap that serves as a device fingerprint. The random dispersion of Ag led to an uneven number of clusters at each cross-point, which in turn resulted in a stochastic ability to switch in the Ag:SiO₂ diffusive memristors in an array. The randomness of the dispersion was a barrier to fingerprint cloning and the unique fingerprints of each device were persistent after fabrication. Using an optimized fabrication procedure, we maximized the randomness and achieved an inter-class Hamming distance of 50.68%. We also discovered that the bits were not flipping after over 10⁴ s at 400 K, suggesting superior reliability of our physical unclonable functions. In addition, our diffusive memristor-based physical unclonable functions were easy to fabricate and did not require complicated post-processing for digitization and thus, provide new opportunities in hardware security applications.

Decreased Expression of MYPT1 Contributes to Tumor Angiogenesis and Poor Patient Prognosis in Human Prostate Cancer

BACKGROUND

Our previous study demonstrated that Myosin Phosphatase Targeting subunit 1 (MYPT1) may function as a direct target of microRNA-30d, which promotes tumor angiogenesis and tumor growth of prostate cancer (PCa). Here, we aimed to investigate the clinical significance of MYPT1 expression and its functions in PCa.

METHODS

Roles of MYPT1 deregulation in tumor angiogenesis of PCa was determined in vitro and in vivo experiments. Expression patterns of MYPT1 and CD31 proteins were examined by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence, respectively. Associations of MYPT1/CD31 combination with various clinicopathological features and patients' prognosis of PCa were also statistically evaluated.

RESULTS

Through gain- and loss-of-function experiments, MYPT1 inhibited capillary tube formation of endothelial cells and in vivo tumor angiogenesis in a mouse model with the downregulation of VEGF and CD31 expression. In addition, MYPT1 expression was significantly decreased, while CD31 expression was dramatically increased in PCa tissues compared to benign prostate tissues. Notably, MYPT1 expression levels in PCa tissues were negatively correlated with that of CD31. Statistically, MYPT1-low/CD31- high expression was distinctly associated with high Gleason score, positive biochemical recurrence, and reduced overall survival of PCa patients. Moreover, PCa patients with MYPT1-low/CD31-high expression more frequently had shorter overall, biochemical recurrence-free and metastasis-free survivals. MYPT1/CD31 combination was identified as an independent factor to predict biochemical recurrence-free and metastasis-free survivals of PCa patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicate that MYPT1 may inhibit angiogenesis and contribute favorable prognosis in PCa patients, implying that MYPT1 might be a potential drug candidate in anticancer therapy.

Perdeuterated and 13C-enriched myo-inositol for DNP assisted monitoring of enzymatic phosphorylation by inositol-3-kinase

The synthesis of perdeuterated and 13C enriched myo-inositol is presented. Myo-inositol and its derivatives are of interest as substrates for enzymes producing phosphorylated species with regulatory functions in many organisms. Its utility in monitoring real-time phosphorylation by myo-inositol-3-kinase is illustrated using dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) to enhance NMR observation.

Mechanism of pingyangmycin-induced apoptosis of cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells

In this study, we investigated the effects of pingyangmycin (PYM) on the growth inhibition and apoptosis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). In this study, we aimed to explore the optimal concentration of PYM to induce the apoptosis of HUVEC and to determine its mechanism of action. After treatment of HUVEC with different concentrations of PYM for 24 h, cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) was used to detect growth inhibiting effects. Annexin V-FITC/propidium iodide stain was used to detect apoptosis, and western blot was used to detect the expression of glucose-related protein 78 (GPR78) and C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) endoplasmic reticulum stress proteins. With increasing PYM concentration, the growth inhibition of HUVEC increased (P < 0.05), the apoptotic numbers of HUVEC increased (P < 0.05), with higher PYM concentrations inducing necrosis, and the protein expression of GRP78 and CHOP increased (P < 0.05). PYM could obviously inhibit the proliferation and promote the apoptosis of HUVEC. Necrotic cells were more prevalent than apoptotic cells at high PYM concentrations. This study helped to determine the proper concentration of PYM to induce more apoptosis than necrosis, which is critical to minimize inflammation, enhance the healing of the skin, and maintain safety for the patient. PYM might induce HUVEC apoptosis through the endoplasmic reticulum stress pathway.

Identification and pathogenicity of Vibrio parahaemolyticus isolates and immune responses of Penaeus (Litopenaeus) vannamei (Boone)

Five different Vibrio parahaemolyticus strains (SH8, SH108, SH58, AH5 and GD10) isolated from the hepatopancreas of moribund shrimp in farms of mainland China were identified and capable of inducing massive mortality of Penaeus (Litopenaeus) vannamei. The immersion challenge results with five isolates indicated variance of virulence, while only GD10 caused massive sloughing of tubule epithelial cells which was recognized as the most significant symptom of AHPND. Differences in immune responses were detected of P. vannamei during 48 h post-infection (p.i.) by injection or immersion challenge with V. parahaemolyticus (SH8, SH108 and GD10) isolates. When injected SH8 and SH108 isolates, the expression of lysozyme (LSZ) showing statistically significant upregulation at 16 and 48 h p.i. and that of Toll-like receptors (TLR) showed statistically significant upregulation at 48 h p.i. When immersion challenge with the GD10 isolate, TLR were upregulated after 8 h p.i. challenge with 10(4)  cfu mL(-1) ; however, LSZ was downregulated when challenged with 10(3)  cfu mL(-1) . The results suggested that LSZ and TLR serve as crucial molecular markers of innate immunity in shrimp against V. parahaemolyticus infection. LSZ is a vital marker for acute bacterial infection, while TLR serves as a crucial marker for chronic infection.

A novel aptasensor for thrombin detection based on alkaline phosphatase decorated ZnO/Pt nanoflowers as signal amplifiers

To remedy the problems caused by the introduction of an additional electron mediator and realize signal amplification, a new strategy has been presented to construct an electrochemical aptasensor for thrombin detection based on the cascade electrocatalysis of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and Pt nanoparticle (PtNP)-functionalized ZnO nanoflowers.

Effects of long term treatment with high doses of odanacatib on bone mass, bone strength, and remodeling/modeling in newly ovariectomized monkeys

The objectives here were to evaluate the effects of odanacatib (ODN) at doses exceeding the clinical exposure on biomechanical properties of lumbar vertebrae (LV), hip and central femur (CF), and compare ODN to alendronate (ALN) on bone remodeling/modeling in ovariectomized (OVX) monkeys. Ten days post-surgery, animals were treated with vehicle (VEH), ODN-L (2mg/kg/day, p.o.), ODN-H (8/4mg/kg/day), or ALN (30μg/kg/week, s.c.) for 20months. An intact group was also included. ODN-L provided systemic exposures of 1.8-fold of clinical exposure. ODN-H started at 20-fold for 5.5months, and then reduced to 7.8-fold of clinical exposure, compared to ALN at approximated clinical exposure. From cross sectional analyses, LV density and peak load in ODN at both doses or ALN were not different from VEH or Intact. However, cortical thickness of femoral neck (FN) and CF in ODN were higher (21-34%, p<0.05) than VEH, due to smaller endocortical (Ec) perimeter of FN (10-11%; p<0.05) and CF (9-12%; ODN-L, p<0.05), and larger CF periosteal (Ps) perimeter (2-12%; ODN-H, p<0.001) versus VEH. ODN groups also showed slightly higher cortical porosity and Ps non-lamellar bone in CF. ODN-H treatment resulted in higher CF peak load (p<0.05) versus VEH. For all bone sites analyzed, a positive, linear relationship (r(2)=0.46-0.69, p<0.0001) of peak load to density or structural parameters was demonstrated. No treatment-related differences in the derived intrinsic strength properties were evidenced as compared between groups. ALN reduced all remodeling surfaces without affecting Ps modeling. Trabecular and intracortical remodeling were reduced in ODN groups, similar to ALN. Ec mineralizing surface in ODN-H trended to be lower than VEH by month 20, but Ec bone formation indices in ODN groups generally were not different from VEH. Ps modeling in ODN groups was significantly higher than other treatment groups. This study overall demonstrated the bone safety profile of ODN and its unique mechanism on cortical bone supporting the clinical application for osteoporosis treatment.

Recent advances in engineering nonribosomal peptide assembly lines

Nonribosomal peptides are amongst the most widespread and structurally diverse secondary metabolites in nature with many possessing bioactivity that can be exploited for therapeutic applications. Due to the major challenges associated with total- and semi-synthesis, bioengineering approaches have been developed to increase yields and generate modified peptides with improved physicochemical properties or altered bioactivity. Here we review the major advances that have been made over the last decade in engineering the biosynthesis of nonribosomal peptides. Structural diversity has been introduced by the modification of enzymes required for the supply of precursors or by heterologous expression of tailoring enzymes. The modularity of nonribosomal peptide synthetase (NRPS) assembly lines further supports module or domain swapping methodologies to achieve changes in the amino acid sequence of nonribosomal peptides. We also review the new synthetic biology technologies promising to speed up the process, enabling the creation and optimisation of many more assembly lines for heterologous expression, offering new opportunities for engineering the biosynthesis of novel nonribosomal peptides.

Recent Advances in Biosensing With Photonic Crystal Surfaces: A Review

Photonic crystal surfaces that are designed to function as wavelength-selective optical resonators have become a widely adopted platform for label-free biosensing, and for enhancement of the output of photon-emitting tags used throughout life science research and in vitro diagnostics. While some applications, such as analysis of drug-protein interactions, require extremely high resolution and the ability to accurately correct for measurement artifacts, others require sensitivity that is high enough for detection of disease biomarkers in serum with concentrations less than 1 pg/ml. As the analysis of cells becomes increasingly important for studying the behavior of stem cells, cancer cells, and biofilms under a variety of conditions, approaches that enable high resolution imaging of live cells without cytotoxic stains or photobleachable fluorescent dyes are providing new tools to biologists who seek to observe individual cells over extended time periods. This paper will review several recent advances in photonic crystal biosensor detection instrumentation and device structures that are being applied towards direct detection of small molecules in the context of high throughput drug screening, photonic crystal fluorescence enhancement as utilized for high sensitivity multiplexed cancer biomarker detection, and label-free high resolution imaging of cells and individual nanoparticles as a new tool for life science research and single-molecule diagnostics.

Conservation and population genetic diversity of Curcuma wenyujin (Zingiberaceae), a multifunctional medicinal herb

Curcuma wenyujin is an important multifunctional medicinal herb in China. Currently, populations of C. wenyujin are decreasing, and wild individuals have almost disappeared from their natural habitats. Moreover, little is known regarding the molecular characteristics of this plant. In this study, we investigated the genetic diversity and variation of five populations of C. wenyujin, using ran-dom amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) and inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) markers. We found that the percentages of polymorphic loci (PPL) at the species level (98.25% by RAPD and 100% by ISSR) were significantly higher than those at the population level (66.32% by RAPD and 67.14% by ISSR). The highest values of PPL, expected heterozygosity, and Shannon's information index were in Pop1, while the lowest values were in Pop2. Both DNA markers revealed a short genetic distance between Pop1 and Pop2 (0.1424 by RAPD and 0.1904 by ISSR). Phylogenetic trees produced similar results, with Pop1, Pop2, and Pop5 in one group and Pop3 and Pop4 in another. There were no significant correlations between their genetic distances and their geographical distances. The highest genetic diversity was in Pop1 and the lowest was in Pop2, and genetic diversity at the species level was relatively low, but much higher than that at the population level. We recommended the establishment of a germplasm bank, in situ con-servation, and propagation of wild individuals. The present study will improve the evaluation, protection, and utilization of the population resources of C. wenyujin.

Immune memory responses to HBV vaccine 13-18 years after primary vaccination

The aim of this study was to evaluate the immune memory response 13-18 years after an hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccine by performing a specific in vitro stimulation experiment. Thirty healthy volunteers who had been inoculated 13-18 years ago with the HBV vaccine were collected from the physical examination center. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were stimulated with 50 ng/mL recombinant HBsAg. An ELISA kit was used for the detection of antibodies that were produced by these cells in vitro. It was found that even 13-18 years after inoculation with the HBV vaccine, an anamnestic antibody response still existed, and was not correlated with the serum antibody levels (r = -0.177, P = 0.377). In conclusion, our data showed that the individuals after inoculation, including those with anti-HBs <10 IU/L as well as those individuals in whom the antibody was not detected, retained immune memory, which may be the main role of memory B cells.

Inhibition of bone resorption by the cathepsin K inhibitor odanacatib is fully reversible

The cathepsin K (CatK) inhibitor odanacatib (ODN) is currently being developed for the treatment of osteoporosis. In clinical trials, efficacy and resolution of effect of ODN treatment on bone turnover biomarkers and accrued bone mass have been demonstrated. Here, we examine the effects of continuing treatment and discontinuation of ODN versus alendronate (ALN) on osteoclast (OC) function. First, accessibility and reversible engagement of active CatK in intracellular vesicles and resorption lacunae of actively resorbing OCs were demonstrated by the selective and reversible CatK inhibitors, BODIPY-L-226 (IC50=39nM) and L-873,724 (IC50=0.5nM). Next, mature human OCs on bone slices were treated with vehicle, ODN, or ALN for 2days, followed by either continuing with the same treatment, or replacement of the inhibitors by vehicle for additional times as specified per experimental conditions. Maintaining OCs on ODN or ALN significantly reduced CTx-I release compared to vehicle controls. However, only the treatment of OCs with ODN resulted in the formation of small shallow discrete resorption pits, retention of intracellular vesicles enriched with CatK and other lysosomal enzymes, increase in 1-CTP release and number of TRAP(+) OCs. Upon discontinuation of ODN treatment, OCs rapidly resumed bone resorption activity, as demonstrated by a return of OC functional markers (CTx-I, 1-CTP), cell number and size, morphology and number of resorption pits, and vesicular secretion of CatK toward the respective vehicle levels. As expected, discontinuation of ALN did not reverse the treatment-related inhibition of OC activity in the time frame of the experiment. In summary, this study demonstrated rapid kinetics of inhibition and reversibility of the effects of ODN on OC bone resorption, that differentiated the cellular mechanism of CatK inhibition from that of the bisphosphate antiresorptive ALN.

Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 rescues the oxidative stress induced by di-N-butylphthalate in testicular Leydig cells

Aim:

This study aimed to determine whether nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 antagonized the oxidative stress induced by di- N-butylphthalate (DBP) in testicular Leydig cells.

Methods:

Mouse TM3 testicular Leydig cells were treated with Nrf2 knockdown (KD) or overexpression in the presence and absence of DBP. Oxidative profiles were examined. Nrf2 target antioxidant genes were studied, and the effects of Nrf2 inducer sulphoraphane (SFN) were tested.

Results:

DBP induced intracellular oxidative stress to a similar extent with Nrf2 KD. Expression and protein levels of Nrf2 were increased together with its target genes, namely heme oxygenase 1, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate quinone oxidoreductase 1 and peroxiredoxin 6, following DBP stimulation. Use of SFN not only restored the intracellular oxidative toxicity but also cell proliferation and testosterone secretion in response to DBP.

Conclusion:

Increased Nrf2 activity, for example, by SFN can effectively antagonize the oxidative stress in testicular Leydig cells caused by DBP.

The effects of the cathepsin K inhibitor odanacatib on osteoclastic bone resorption and vesicular trafficking

Odanacatib (ODN) is a selective, potent and reversible inhibitor of cathepsin K (CatK) that inhibits bone loss in postmenopausal osteoporosis. Evidence from osteoclast (OC) formation from bone marrow of CatK(-/-) mice or human OC progenitors treated with ODN, demonstrated that CatK inhibition has no effect on osteoclastogenesis or survival of OCs. Although having no impact on OC activation, ODN reduces resorption activity as measured by CTx release (IC(50)=9.4 nM) or resorption area (IC(50)=6.5 nM). While untreated cells generate deep trail-like resorption lacunae, treated OCs form small discrete shallow pits. ODN leads to significant accumulation of intracellular vesicles intensely stained for CatK and TRAP. CatK (+) vesicles localize toward the basolateral and functional secretory membranes of the polarized OC and TRAP(+) vesicles evenly distribute in the cytoplasm, suggesting that ODN disrupts multiple vesicular trafficking pathways. Intracellular levels of both precursor and mature TRAP were increased by 2-fold and the pre-pro and mature CatK by 6- and 2-fold in ODN-treated OCs compared to untreated controls. ODN treated OC accumulates labeled degraded bone matrix proteins in CatK containing vesicles. In summary, ODN treatment inhibits bone resorption by blocking degradation of demineralized collagen in the resorption lacunae, and retarding transcytosis for further processing of degraded proteins.

A SAS macro for target dose estimation by reinforced urn processes in phase I clinical trials

The reinforced urn processes (RUPs) approach can estimate the target dose on the basis of the prior distribution function precisely and conveniently without the requirements about the explicit-estimated dose-response curve and the posterior complicated inference. The application of the RUPs approach was not discussed from the perspective of phase I clinical trial in the previous studies which just focused on the theory and methodology. And the modification of the traditional RUPs design should be considered for the purposes of ethnics and efficiency. A SAS macro was designed to explore the appropriate parameter settings according to the simulation outcomes in different situations and apply the RUPs approach for two state processes in phase I clinical trail with the modified RUPs design. The posterior estimation can be obtained precisely and efficiently with application of SAS program following the appropriate workflow and determination rule which were described in the example.