FOXP3 (in)stability and cancer immunotherapy

Dysregulation of regulatory T cells (Tregs) is described in the context of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, and cancer. Forkhead box P3 (FOXP3) is a transcription factor that its activity is an indicator of Treg identity. FOXP3 induces metabolic versatility in intra-tumoral Tregs, so that its deficiency mediates Treg instability or even gives rise to the acquisition of effector T cell phenotype. FOXP3 dysregulation and defectiveness occurs upon ubiquitination, methylation and presumably acetylation. Stimulators of PTEN, mammalian target of rapamycin complex 2 (mTORC2), and nucleus accumbens-associated protein-1 (NAC1), and inhibitors of B lymphocyte-induced maturation protein-1 (Blimp-1), Deltex1 (DTX1) and ubiquitin-specific peptidase 22 (USP22) are suggested to hamper FOXP3 stability, and to promote its downregulation and further Treg depletion. A point is that Treg subsets reveal different reliance on FOXP3, which indicates that not all Tregs are strictly dependent on FOXP3, and presumably Tregs with different origin rely on diverse regulators of FOXP3 stability. The focus of this review is over the current understanding toward FOXP3, its activity in Tregs and influence from different regulators within tumor microenvironment (TME). Implication of FOXP3 targeting in cancer immunotherapy is another focus of this paper.

Mechanic study based on untargeted metabolomics of Pi-pa-run-fei-tang on pepper combined with ammonia induced chronic cough model mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Pi-pa-run-fei-tang (PPRFT), a traditional Chinese medicine formula with long-standing history, demonstrated beneficial effect on chronic cough. However, the mechanism underlying efficacy unclear. In current research, we explored the impact and molecular mechanism of chronic cough mouse stimulating with capsaicin combined with ammonia.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate the metabolic modulating effects, and potential mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effect of PPRFT in chronic cough.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Chronic cough mouse models were created by stimulating mice by capsaicin combined with ammonia. Number of coughs and cough latency within 2 min were recorded. With lung tissue and serum samples collected for histopathology, metabolomics, RT-qPCR, immunohistochemistry, and WB analysis. Lymphocytes were isolated and flow cytometric assays were conducted to evaluate the differentiation between Th17 and Treg cell among CD4+ cells.

RESULTS

Results indicated that PPRFT obviously reduced the number of coughs, prolonged cough latency, reduced inflammatory cell infiltration and lung tissues damage, and decreased the serum level of IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-17 while increasing IL-10 levels. Notably, PPRFT suppressed Th17 cell divergence and promoted Treg cell divergence. Furthermore, serum metabolomic assays showed that 46 metabolites differed significantly between group, with 35 pathways involved. Moreover, mRNA levels of IL-6, NF-κB, IL-17, RORγT, JAK2, STAT3, PI3K and AKT in lung tissues remarkably reduced and mRNA levels of IL-10 and FOXP3 were elevated after PPRFT pretreatment. Additionally, PPRFT treatments decreased the protein levels of IL-6, NF-κB, IL-17, RORγT, p-JAK2, p-STAT3, p-PI3K, and p-AKT and increased the protein levels of IL-10 and FOXP3, but no significantly effects to the levels on JAK2, STAT3, PI3K, and AKT in the lungs.

CONCLUSION

Conclusively, our result suggested the effect with PPRFT on chronic cough may be mediated through IL-6/JAK2/STAT3 and PI3K/AKT/NF-κB pathway, which regulate the differentiation between Th17 and Treg cell. This beneficial effect of PPRFT in capsaicin and ammonia-stimulated chronic cough mice indicates its potential application in treating chronic cough.

Calycosin enhances Treg differentiation for alleviating skin inflammation in atopic dermatitis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a prevalent chronic inflammatory skin disorder that poses a significant global health challenge. There is a lack of safe and effective medications to treat AD. Astragalus membranaceous is a traditional Chinese medicine widely used in clinical treatment of skin diseases. Calycosin (CA), derived from the root of Astragalus membranaceous, exhibits dual attributes of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, suggesting its promise for addressing cutaneous inflammation. Nonetheless, the precise mechanisms underlying CA's therapeutic actions in AD remain elusive.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of CA in treating AD while also delving into the mechanistic underpinnings of CA's action in AD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The cell viability and anti-inflammatory impacts of CA in vitro were first gauged using CCK-8 and RT-qPCR. The potential mechanisms of CA were then probed using modular pharmacology. Flow cytometry was employed to ascertain the differentiation of Treg and Th17 cells derived from naïve T cells, as well as the proportions and mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) of human iTreg cells. The expressions of IL-10 and TGF-β1 were measured and Treg suppression assay was performed. The in vivo therapeutic efficacy of topical CA application was assessed using a calcipotriol (MC903)-induced AD mouse model. The expression metrics of inflammatory cytokines, IL-17A, FOXP3, and RORγt were authenticated via immunohistochemistry, RT-qPCR, Western blot, and ELISA.

RESULTS

CA exhibited a favorable safety profile and reduced the mRNA expressions of Th2 inflammatory cytokines in HaCaT cells. Modular pharmacology analysis pinpointed Th17 differentiation as the pivotal mechanism behind CA's therapeutic effect on AD. In vitro, CA fostered the differentiation of naïve T cells into Tregs while inhibiting their differentiation into Th17 cells. Furthermore, CA augmented the proliferation of human iTregs. In vivo, CA alleviated skin manifestations and decreased the levels of inflammatory mediators (IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, TSLP, and NF-κB related cytokines) in AD-like mouse models. Simultaneously, it regulated Treg/Th17 balance through suppressing IL-17A and RORγt expressions and bolstering FOXP3 expression.

CONCLUSIONS

The study provides insights into the mechanistic pathways through which CA exerts its anti-inflammatory effects, particularly through promoting Treg cell differentiation and inhibiting Th17 cell differentiation. Furthermore, CA emerges as an alternative or adjunctive treatment strategy for managing AD.

Role of sulfatide-reactive vNKT cells in promoting lung Treg cells via dendritic cell modulation in asthma models

Our previous studies have showed that sulfatide-reactive type II NKT (i.e. variant NKT, vNKT) cells inhibit the immunogenic maturation during the development of mature lung dendritic cells (LDCs), leading todeclined allergic airway inflammation in asthma. Nonetheless, the specific immunoregulatory roles of vNKT cells in LDC-mediated Th2 cell responses remain incompletely understood. Herein, we found that administration of sulfatide facilitated the generation of CD4+FoxP3+ regulatory T (Treg) cells in the lungs of wild-type mice, but not in CD1d-/- and Jα18-/- mice, after ovalbumin or house dust mite exposure. This finding implies that the enhancement of lung Treg cells by sulfatide requires vNKT cells, which dependent on invariant NKT (iNKT) cells. Furthermore, the CD4+FoxP3+ Treg cells induced by sulfatide-reactive vNKT cells were found to be associated with PD-L1 molecules expressed on LDCs, and this association was dependent on iNKT cells. Collectively, our findings suggest that in asthma-mimicking murine models, sulfatide-reactive vNKT cells facilitate the generation of lung Treg cells through inducing tolerogenic properties in LDCs, and this process is dependent on the presence of lung iNKT cells. These results may provide a potential therapeutic approach to treat allergic asthma.

The muscle regeneration marker FOXP3 is associated with muscle injury in Duchenne muscular dystrophy

BACKGROUND

In Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), the immune system cells (ISC) synthesize molecules to regulate inflammation, a process needed to regenerate muscle. The relationship between those molecules and the muscle injury is unknown. Monocytes belonging to ISC are regulated by omega-3 fatty acids (ω-3 LCPUFAs) in DMD, but whether those fatty acids influence other ISC like T-cells is unknown.

OBJECTIVE

We analyzed the expression of the muscle regeneration markers (FOXP3 and AREG) in circulating leukocytes of DMD patients with different lower limb muscle functions and whether ω-3 LCPUFAs regulate the expression of those markers, and the populations of circulating T-cells, their intracellular cytokines, and disease progression (CD69 and CD49d) markers.

METHODS

This placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomized study was conducted in DMD boys supplemented with ω-3 LCPUFAs (n = 18) or placebo (sunflower oil, n = 13) for six months. FOXP3 and AREG mRNA expression in leukocytes, immunophenotyping of T-cell populations, CD49d and CD69 markers, and intracellular cytokines in blood samples were analyzed at baseline and months 1, 2, 3, and 6 of supplementation.

RESULTS

Patients with assisted ambulation expressed higher (P = 0.015) FOXP3 mRNA levels than ambulatory patients. The FOXP3 mRNA expression correlated (Rho = -0.526, P = 0.03) with the Vignos scale score at month six of supplementation with ω-3 LCPUFAs. CD49d + CD8 + T-cells population was lower (P = 0.037) in the ω -3 LCPUFAs group than placebo at month six of supplementation.

CONCLUSION

FOXP3 is highly expressed in circulating leukocytes of DMD patients with the worst muscle function. Omega-3 LCPUFAs might modulate the synthesis of the adhesion marker CD49d + CD8 + T-cells, but their plausible impact on FOXP3 needs more research.

Silencing of forkhead box protein O-1 (FOXO-1) enhances insulin-producing cell generation from adipose mesenchymal stem cells for diabetes therapy

AIMS

Generation of mature β-cells from MSCs has been a challenge in the field of stem cell therapy of diabetes. Adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (Ad-MSCs) have made their mark in regenerative medicine, and provide several advantages compared to other MSCs sources. Forkhead box protein O-1 (FOXO-1) is an important transcription factor for normal development of β-cells, yet its over expression in β-cells may cause glucose intolerance. In this study, we isolated, characterized Ad-MSCs from rat epididymal fat pads, differentiated these MSCs into insulin producing cells (IPCs) and studied the role of FOXO-1 in such differentiation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We examined the expression of FOXO-1 and its nuclear cytoplasmic localization in the generated IPCs. Afterwards we knocked down FOXO-1 using siRNA targeting FOXO-1 (siFOXO-1). The differentiated siFOXO-1 IPCs were compared to non-targeting siRNA (siNT) IPCs regarding expression of β-cell markers by qRT-PCR and western blotting, dithizone (DTZ) staining and glucose stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS).

KEY FINDINGS

Isolated Ad-MSCs exhibited all characteristics of MSCs and can generate IPCs. FOXO-1 was initially elevated during differentiation followed by a decline towards end of differentiation. FOXO-1 was dephosphorylated and localized to the nucleus upon differentiation into IPCs. Knock down of FOXO-1 improved the expression of β-cell markers in final differentiated IPCs, improved DTZ uptake and showed increased insulin secretion upon challenging with increased glucose concentration.

SIGNIFICANCE

These results portray FOXO-1 as a hindering factor of generation of IPCs whose down-regulation can generate more mature IPCs for MSCs therapy of diabetes mellitus.

C. elegans insulin-like peptides

Insulin-like peptides are a group of hormones crucial for regulating metabolism, growth, and development in animals. Invertebrates, such as C. elegans, have been instrumental in understanding the molecular mechanisms of insulin-like peptides. Here, we review the 40 insulin-like peptide genes encoded in the C. elegans genome. Despite the large number, there is only one C. elegans insulin-like peptide receptor, called DAF-2. The insulin and insulin-like growth factor signaling (IIS) pathway is evolutionarily conserved from worms to humans. Thus C. elegans provides an excellent model to understand how these insulin-like peptides function. C. elegans is unique in that it possesses insulin-like peptides that have antagonistic properties, unlike all human insulin-like peptides, which are agonists. This review provides an overview of the current literature on C. elegans insulin-like peptide structures, processing, tissue localization, and regulation. We will also provide examples of insulin-like peptide signaling in C. elegans during growth, development, germline development, learning/memory, and longevity.

Autophagy dysregulation plays a crucial role in regulatory T-cell loss and neuroinflammation in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

OBJECTIVE

Neuroinflammation is the hallmark of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) disease. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are essential in immune tolerance and neuroinflammation prevention. It has been shown that a significant decrease in Treg and FoxP3 protein expression is observed in ALS patients. The main reason for the FoxP3+ Treg loss in ALS is unknown. In this study, the role of autophagy dysregulation in FoxP3+ Tregs in ALS was investigated.

METHODS

Twenty-three ALS patients and 24 healthy controls were recruited for the study. Mononuclear cells (MNCs) were obtained from peripheral blood, and then Tregs were isolated. Isolated Tregs were stained with FoxP3 and LC3 antibodies and analyzed in flow cytometry to determine autophagy levels in FoxP3+ Tregs in patients and controls.

RESULTS

The mean of FoxP3+ LC3+ cells, were 0.47 and 0.45 in patients and controls, respectively. The mean of FoxP3+ LC3- cells was 0.15 in patients and 0.20 in controls, p = 0.030 (p < 0.05). There is no significant correlation between ALSFRS-R decay rate and autophagy level in patients. Also, there is no significant difference between autophagy levels in FoxP3+ Tregs in patients with rapidly progressing ALS and slow-progressing ALS.

CONCLUSION

Excessive autophagy levels in FoxP3+ Tregs in ALS patients can potentially be an explanation for an increased cell death and result in worsened neuroinflammation and disease onset. However, the disease progress is not attributable to autophagy levels in FoxP3+ Tregs.

FOXO3a functions as a transcriptional and co-transcriptional splicing regulator in vascular endothelial cell lines

Recent studies have indicated a connection between Forkhead box O3a protein and coronary artery disease, yet the exact role of FOXO3a in the regulation of metabolic processes and apoptosis in vascular endothelial cells is still unknown. Therefore, we investigated the role of FOXO3a on target genes in a human vascular endothelial cell line. Through the utilization of high-throughput sequencing technology, we analyzed gene expression profiles and alternative splicing patterns in human vascular endothelial cells with FOXO3a over expression. This study identified 419 DEGs between FOXO3a-OE HUVEC model and control cells. KEGG analysis indicated that the upregulated genes were mainly enriched in inflammation-related signaling pathways, and the downregulated genes were enriched in lipid metabolism-related pathways.

HIF-1α induced by hypoxic condition regulates Treg/Th17 axis polarization in chronic immune thrombocytopenia

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an acquired immune disorder characterized by increased platelet destruction and reduced platelet (Plt) production. Hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) have regulatory effects on Treg/Th17 axis balance and may represent relevant factors in the pathogenesis of ITP. Treg/Th17 ratio, serum levels and gene expression were investigated in new diagnosed ITP (NITP) and chronic ITP (CITP). The Treg/Th17 ratio obviously decreased in CITP (P = 0.001). The ratio of Treg/Th17 was correlated with the level of HIF-1α level both in mRNA (r = 0.49, P < 0.0001) and serum level (r = 0.50, P < 0.0001). However, none statistical upregulation of HIF-1α was observed in CITP. In vitro, There was significant polarization difference of Treg/Th17 axis (P = 0.042) and Foxp3-MFI/IL17-MFI (P = 0.0003) in hypoxic condition between NITP and CITP. These findings suggest that HIF-1α induced by hypoxia plays a crucial role in the chronicity of ITP by mediating the imbalance of the Treg/Th17 axis.

Tyrosol attenuates NASH features by reprogramming the hepatic immune milieu

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a leading cause of chronic liver disease, and no drugs have been approved for its therapy. Among plant-derived molecules, phenolic compounds of extra virgin olive oil like tyrosol (Tyr) had demonstrated multiple beneficial actions for liver health, including the modulation of inflammation in fibrosis. This study aims at assessing the protective effect and mechanism of Tyr in invitro and in vivo models of NASH, with a focus on the hepatic immune microenvironment and extrahepatic manifestations. The effect of Tyr was evaluated in cellular models of NASH, obtained by co-culturing palmitic and oleic acid-treated HepG2 cells with THP1-derived M1 macrophages and LX2 cells, and in a mouse model of NASH induced by a high fructose-high fat diet combined to CCl4 treatment. In vitro Tyr reduced fatty acid (FA) accumulation in HepG2 cells and displayed a beneficial effect on LX2 activation and macrophage differentiation. In vivo, beside reducing steatosis and fibrosis in NASH animals, Tyr prevented inflammation, as demonstrated by the reduction of hepatic inflammatory foci, and immune cells like CD86+ macrophages (p < 0.05), CD4+ (p < 0.05) and T helper effector CD4+ FoxP3- CD62L-lymphocytes (p < 0.05). Also, the prooxidant enzyme NOX1 and the mRNA expression of TGF-β1 and IL6 (p < 0.05) were reduced by Tyr. Notably, in Tyr-treated animals, a significant increase of CD4+ FoxP3+ Treg cells (p < 0.05) was observed, involved in regenerative pathways. Moreover, Tyr attenuated the fatigue and anxious behavior observed in NASH mice. In conclusion, Tyr effectively reduced NASH-related steatosis, fibrosis, oxidative stress, and inflammation, displaying a beneficial effect on the hepatic immune infiltrate, indicating its possible development as a therapeutic agent for NASH due to its multifaceted mechanism.

Cold-induced FOXO1 nuclear transport aids cold survival and tissue storage

Cold-induced injuries severely limit opportunities and outcomes of hypothermic therapies and organ preservation, calling for better understanding of cold adaptation. Here, by surveying cold-altered chromatin accessibility and integrated CUT&Tag/RNA-seq analyses in human stem cells, we reveal forkhead box O1 (FOXO1) as a key transcription factor for autonomous cold adaptation. Accordingly, we find a nonconventional, temperature-sensitive FOXO1 transport mechanism involving the nuclear pore complex protein RANBP2, SUMO-modification of transporter proteins Importin-7 and Exportin-1, and a SUMO-interacting motif on FOXO1. Our conclusions are supported by cold survival experiments with human cell models and zebrafish larvae. Promoting FOXO1 nuclear entry by the Exportin-1 inhibitor KPT-330 enhances cold tolerance in pre-diabetic obese mice, and greatly prolongs the shelf-life of human and mouse pancreatic tissues and islets. Transplantation of mouse islets cold-stored for 14 days reestablishes normoglycemia in diabetic mice. Our findings uncover a regulatory network and potential therapeutic targets to boost spontaneous cold adaptation.

Cyclocodon lancifolius fruit prolongs the lifespan of Caenorhabditis elegans via antioxidation and regulation of purine metabolism

Cyclocodon lancifolius fruit is a promising commercial fruit with antioxidant activity and is rich in polyphenolic compounds. In this study, the anti-aging activity of C. lancifolius fruit extract (CF) on Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) was evaluated by observing the longevity, stress response, reproduction, oscillation, lipofuscin, and antioxidant enzymes of worms. Moreover, the effects and potential mechanisms of CF on delaying C. elegans senescence at the mRNA and metabolite levels were investigated. The results showed that CF treatment significantly increased the lifespan and stress resistance, decreased the levels of lipofuscin and reactive oxygen species (ROS), and improved the antioxidant system of C. elegans. The extension of the lifespan of C. elegans was remarkably correlated with the upregulation of mtl-1 and Hsp-16.2, along with the downregulation of age-1, daf-2, and akt-1. Metabolomics analysis revealed that purine metabolism is a key regulatory pathway for CF to exert anti-aging effects. The present study suggests that C. lancifolius fruit has potential for use as a functional food to enhance antioxidant capacity and delay aging.

Regulatory role of PI16 in autoimmune arthritis and intestinal inflammation: implications for Treg cell differentiation and function

BACKGROUND

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are crucial in maintaining immune homeostasis and preventing autoimmunity and inflammation. A proportion of Treg cells can lose Foxp3 expression and become unstable under inflammation conditions. The precise mechanisms underlying this phenomenon remain unclear.

METHODS

The PI16 gene knockout mice (PI16fl/flFoxp3Cre) in Treg were constructed, and the genotypes were identified. The proportion and phenotypic differences of immune cells in 8-week-old mice were detected by cell counter and flow cytometry. Two groups of mouse Naïve CD4+T cells were induced to differentiate into iTreg cells to observe the effect of PI16 on the differentiation and proliferation of iTreg cells, CD4+CD25+Treg and CD4+CD25- effector T cells (Teff) were selected and co-cultured with antigen presenting cells (APC) to observe the effect of PI16 on the inhibitory ability of Treg cells in vitro. The effects of directed knockout of PI16 in Treg cells on inflammatory symptoms, histopathological changes and immune cell expression in mice with enteritis and autoimmune arthritis were observed by constructing the model of antigen-induced arthritis (AIA) and colitis induced by dextran sulfate sodium salt (DSS).

RESULTS

We identified peptidase inhibitor 16 (PI16) as a negative regulator of Treg cells. Our findings demonstrate that conditional knock-out of PI16 in Tregs significantly enhances their differentiation and suppressive functions. The conditional knockout of the PI16 gene resulted in a significantly higher abundance of Foxp3 expression (35.12 ± 5.71% vs. 20.00 ± 1.61%, p = 0.034) in iTreg cells induced in vitro compared to wild-type mice. Mice with Treg cell-specific PI16 ablation are protected from autoimmune arthritis (AIA) and dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis development. The AIA model of PI16CKO is characterized by the reduction of joint structure and the attenuation of synovial inflammation and in DSS-induced colitis model, conditional knockout of the PI16 reduce intestinal structural damage. Additionally, we found that the deletion of the PI16 gene in Treg can increase the proportion of Treg (1.46 ± 0.14% vs. 0.64 ± 0.07%, p < 0.0001) and decrease the proportion of Th17 (1.00 ± 0.12% vs. 3.84 ± 0.64%, p = 0.001). This change will enhance the shift of Th17/Treg toward Treg cells in AIA arthritis model (0.71 ± 0.06% vs. 8.07 ± 1.98%, p = 0.003). In DSS-induced colitis model of PI16CKO, the proportion of Treg in spleen was significantly increased (1.40 ± 0.15% vs. 0.50 ± 0.11%, p = 0.003), Th17 (2.18 ± 0.55% vs. 6.42 ± 1.47%, p = 0.017), Th1 (3.42 ± 0.19% vs. 6.59 ± 1.28%, p = 0.028) and Th2 (1.52 ± 0.27% vs. 2.76 ± 0.38%, p = 0.018) in spleen was significantly decreased and the Th17/Treg balance swift toward Treg cells (1.44 ± 0.50% vs. 24.09 ± 7.18%, p = 0.012).

CONCLUSION

PI16 plays an essential role in inhibiting Treg cell differentiation and function. Conditional knock out PI16 gene in Treg can promote the Treg/Th17 balance towards Treg dominance, thereby alleviating the condition. Targeting PI16 may facilitate Treg cell-based therapies for preventing autoimmune diseases and inflammatory diseases. The research provides us with novel insights and future research avenues for the treatment of autoimmune diseases, particularly arthritis and colitis.

Evolutionarily conserved roles of foxg1a in the developing subpallium of zebrafish embryos

The vertebrate telencephalic lobes consist of the pallium (dorsal) and subpallium (ventral). The subpallium gives rise to the basal ganglia, encompassing the pallidum and striatum. The development of this region is believed to depend on Foxg1/Foxg1a functions in both mice and zebrafish. This study aims to elucidate the genetic regulatory network controlled by foxg1a in subpallium development using zebrafish as a model. The expression gradient of foxg1a within the developing telencephalon was examined semi-quantitatively in initial investigations. Utilizing the CRISPR/Cas9 technique, we subsequently established a foxg1a mutant line and observed the resultant phenotypes. Morphological assessment revealed that foxg1a mutants exhibit a thin telencephalon together with a misshapen preoptic area (POA). Notably, accumulation of apoptotic cells was identified in this region. In mutants at 24 h postfertilization, the expression of pallium markers expanded ventrally, while that of subpallium markers was markedly suppressed. Concurrently, the expression of fgf8a, vax2, and six3b was shifted ventrally, causing anomalous expression in regions typical of POA formation in wild-type embryos. Consequently, the foxg1a mutation led to expansion of the pallium and disrupted the subpallium and POA. This highlights a pivotal role of foxg1a in directing the dorsoventral patterning of the telencephalon, particularly in subpallium differentiation, mirroring observations in mice. Additionally, reduced expression of neural progenitor maintenance genes was detected in mutants, suggesting the necessity of foxg1a in preserving neural progenitors. Collectively, these findings underscore evolutionarily conserved functions of foxg1 in the development of the subpallium in vertebrate embryos.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tumor microenvironment is more suppressive than colorectal cancer liver metastasis (CRLM) tumor microenvironment

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

While HCC is an inflammation-associated cancer, CRLM develops on permissive healthy liver microenvironment. To evaluate the immune aspects of these two different environments, peripheral blood-(PB), peritumoral-(PT) and tumoral tissues-(TT) from HCC and CRLM patients were evaluated.

METHODS

40 HCC and 34 CRLM were enrolled and freshly TT, PT and PB were collected at the surgery. PB-, PT- and TT-derived CD4+CD25+ Tregs, M/PMN-MDSC and PB-derived CD4+CD25- T-effector cells (Teffs) were isolated and characterized. Tregs' function was also evaluated in the presence of the CXCR4 inhibitor, peptide-R29, AMD3100 or anti-PD1. RNA was extracted from PB/PT/TT tissues and tested for FOXP3, CXCL12, CXCR4, CCL5, IL-15, CXCL5, Arg-1, N-cad, Vim, CXCL8, TGFβ and VEGF-A expression.

RESULTS

In HCC/CRLM-PB, higher number of functional Tregs, CD4+CD25hiFOXP3+ was detected, although PB-HCC Tregs exert a more suppressive function as compared to CRLM Tregs. In HCC/CRLM-TT, Tregs were highly represented with activated/ENTPD-1+Tregs prevalent in HCC. As compared to CRLM, HCC overexpressed CXCR4 and N-cadherin/vimentin in a contest rich in arginase and CCL5. Monocytic MDSCs were highly represented in HCC/CRLM, while high polymorphonuclear MDSCs were detected only in HCC. Interestingly, the function of CXCR4-PB-Tregs was impaired in HCC/CRLM by the CXCR4 inhibitor R29.

CONCLUSION

In HCC and CRLM, peripheral blood, peritumoral and tumoral tissues Tregs are highly represented and functional. Nevertheless, HCC displays a more immunosuppressive TME due to Tregs, MDSCs, intrinsic tumor features (CXCR4, CCL5, arginase) and the contest in which it develops. As CXCR4 is overexpressed in HCC/CRLM tumor/TME cells, CXCR4 inhibitors may be considered for double hit therapy in liver cancer patients.

Foxp and Skor family proteins control differentiation of Purkinje cells from Ptf1a- and Neurog1-expressing progenitors in zebrafish

Cerebellar neurons, such as GABAergic Purkinje cells (PCs), interneurons (INs) and glutamatergic granule cells (GCs) are differentiated from neural progenitors expressing proneural genes, including ptf1a, neurog1 and atoh1a/b/c. Studies in mammals previously suggested that these genes determine cerebellar neuron cell fate. However, our studies on ptf1a;neurog1 zebrafish mutants and lineage tracing of ptf1a-expressing progenitors have revealed that the ptf1a/neurog1-expressing progenitors can generate diverse cerebellar neurons, including PCs, INs and a subset of GCs in zebrafish. The precise mechanisms of how each cerebellar neuron type is specified remains elusive. We found that genes encoding the transcriptional regulators Foxp1b, Foxp4, Skor1b and Skor2, which are reportedly expressed in PCs, were absent in ptf1a;neurog1 mutants. foxp1b;foxp4 mutants showed a strong reduction in PCs, whereas skor1b;skor2 mutants completely lacked PCs, and displayed an increase in immature GCs. Misexpression of skor2 in GC progenitors expressing atoh1c suppressed GC fate. These data indicate that Foxp1b/4 and Skor1b/2 function as key transcriptional regulators in the initial step of PC differentiation from ptf1a/neurog1-expressing neural progenitors, and that Skor1b and Skor2 control PC differentiation by suppressing their differentiation into GCs.

The Prognostic Value of Tumor Infiltrating Lymphocytes After Radical Cystectomy for Bladder Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

We aimed to assess the prognostic value of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in patients with bladder cancer (BC) after radical cystectomy (RC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We searched Pubmed, Web of Science and Scopus in April 2022 to identify studies assessing the prognostic value of TILs, including a subset of lymphocytes (eg, CD3, CD8, FOXP3), after RC. The endpoints were overall survival and recurrent free survival. Subgroup analyses were performed based on the evaluation method for TILs (ie, CD3, CD8, FOXP3, HE staining).

RESULTS

Overall, 9 studies comprising 1413 patients were included in this meta-analysis. The meta-analysis revealed that elevated expressions of TILs were significantly associated with favorable OS (pooled hazard ratio [HR]: 0.65, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.51-0.83) and RFS (pooled HR: 0.48, 95% CI: 0.35-0.64). In subgroup analyses, high CD8+ TILs were also associated with favorable OS (HR: 0.51, 95% CI: 0.33-0.80) and RFS (pooled HR: 0.53, 95% CI: 0.36-0.76). Among 3 studies comprising 146 patients, high intratumoral TILs were significantly associated with favorable OS (pooled HR: 0.34, 95% CI: 0.19-0.60).

CONCLUSION

TILs are useful prognostic markers in patients treated with RC for BC. Although the prognostic value of TILs is varied, depending on the subset and infiltration site, CD8+ TILs and intratumoral TILs are associated with oncologic outcomes. Further studies are warranted to explicate the predictive value of TILs on the response to perioperative systemic therapy to help clinical decision-making in patients with BC.

Tumoural Pellino-1 expression and Pellino-1-expressive cytotoxic T-cells are associated with poor prognosis in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma

Pellino-1 plays a role in regulating inflammation and immune responses, and its effects on tumours are complex, with different outcomes reported in various studies. Additionally, the role of Pellino-1 in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) has not been thoroughly investigated. We aimed to examine the expression of Pellino-1 in tumour cells and tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) separately and identify the clinicopathological significance of Pellino-1 expression in DLBCL. We evaluated Pellino-1 expression in 104 patients with DLBCL. The density of specific cell types was quantitatively analysed using digital image analysis after a multiplex immunofluorescence staining with Pellino-1, CD20, CD8, FOXP3, and PD-1. Pellino-1 expression was mostly observed in CD20+ tumour cells and CD8+ TILs. The high CD8+/Pellino-1+ group was significantly associated with the non-GCB subtype and higher numbers of Foxp3+ T-cells. Patients with high CD20+/Pellino-1+ and high CD8+/Pellino-1+ cell densities had significantly shorter event-free survival (EFS) rates. The multivariate Cox-regression analysis showed that CD20+/Pellino-1+ cell density and CD8+/Pellino-1+ cell density were independent poor prognostic factors for EFS. Furthermore, patients with low densities of both CD20+/Pellino-1+ and CD8+/Pellino-1+ cells demonstrated a prognosis superior to that of patients with high Pellino-1+ cell densities, either alone or in combination. Additionally, the multivariate analysis demonstrated that the combination of CD20+/Pellino-1+ and CD8+/Pellino-1+ cell densities was an independent prognostic factor for EFS and overall survival. Pellino-1 expression was observed in both tumour cells and TILs, particularly in cytotoxic T-cells, and was correlated with poor outcomes in DLBCL. Thus, Pellino-1 might have an oncogenic effect on DLBCL and might be a potential target for improving cytotoxic T-cell activity.

Implication of transcription factor FOXD2 dysfunction in syndromic congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT)

Congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT) are the predominant cause for chronic kidney disease below age 30 years. Many monogenic forms have been discovered due to comprehensive genetic testing like exome sequencing. However, disease-causing variants in known disease-associated genes only explain a proportion of cases. Here, we aim to unravel underlying molecular mechanisms of syndromic CAKUT in three unrelated multiplex families with presumed autosomal recessive inheritance. Exome sequencing in the index individuals revealed three different rare homozygous variants in FOXD2, encoding a transcription factor not previously implicated in CAKUT in humans: a frameshift in the Arabic and a missense variant each in the Turkish and the Israeli family with segregation patterns consistent with autosomal recessive inheritance. CRISPR/Cas9-derived Foxd2 knockout mice presented with a bilateral dilated kidney pelvis accompanied by atrophy of the kidney papilla and mandibular, ophthalmologic, and behavioral anomalies, recapitulating the human phenotype. In a complementary approach to study pathomechanisms of FOXD2-dysfunction-mediated developmental kidney defects, we generated CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout of Foxd2 in ureteric bud-induced mouse metanephric mesenchyme cells. Transcriptomic analyses revealed enrichment of numerous differentially expressed genes important for kidney/urogenital development, including Pax2 and Wnt4 as well as gene expression changes indicating a shift toward a stromal cell identity. Histology of Foxd2 knockout mouse kidneys confirmed increased fibrosis. Further, genome-wide association studies suggest that FOXD2 could play a role for maintenance of podocyte integrity during adulthood. Thus, our studies help in genetic diagnostics of monogenic CAKUT and in understanding of monogenic and multifactorial kidney diseases.

Distal renal tubular acidosis as presenting manifestation of Wilson disease in a 11-year-old girl

A 11-year-old girl was referred to the pediatric nephrology services of our hospital for evaluation of vitamin-D-refractory rickets. She was born to second-degree consanguineous parents. On examination, she had wrist widening and bilateral genu varum. She had normal anion gap metabolic acidosis, hypokalemia, and hyperchloremia. The fractional excretion of bicarbonate was 3% and the urine anion gap was positive. She also had hypercalciuria, but no phosphaturia, glucosuria or aminoaciduria. In view of a family history of an elder sister having rigidity with cognitive and speech impairment, an ophthalmic evaluation by slit lamp examination was performed in the index case that revealed bilateral Kayser-Fleischer rings. Serum ceruloplasmin was low and 24-h urine copper was elevated in the index case. Whole exome sequencing unveiled a novel pathogenic variant in exon 2 of the ATP7B gene (chr13: c.470del; Depth: 142x) (homozygous) that resulted in a frameshift and premature truncation of the protein, 15 amino acids downstream to codon 157 (p. Cys157LeufsTer15; NM_000053.4) confirming Wilson disease. There were no mutations in the ATP6V0A4, ATP6V1B1, SLC4A1, FOXI1, WDR72 genes or other genes that are known to cause distal RTA. Therapy with D-penicillamine and zinc supplements was initiated. A low dose of 2.5 mEq/kg/day of potassium citrate supplementation normalized the serum bicarbonate levels. This case was notable for the absence of hepatic or neurological involvement at admission. Wilson disease is well known to cause proximal renal tubular acidosis and Fanconi syndrome, with relatively lesser involvement of the distal renal tubules in the literature. However, isolated distal renal tubular involvement as presenting manifestation of Wilson disease (without hepatic or neurological involvement) is rare and can lead to diagnostic confusion.

Investigating the T regulatory cells and Sirtuin-I serum level in immunotherapy treated house dust mite allergic asthma patients

OBJECTIVES

House dust mite aeroallergens are predominant triggers of frequent asthma attacks among adults and children. The intensity of asthma and immune reaction necessitates treatment alternatives based on adjusting chosen immunity biomarkers to control the exacerbation of symptoms and establish long-term immune tolerance. In this study, we selected CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs), FOXP3, and Sirtuin-1 as they are known to have a potential role in the immune reaction in different allergic diseases. We investigated their interplay during HDM allergic asthma and its respective immunotherapy.

METHODS

Eighty-four subjects were divided into 3 groups; healthy controls (CT), HDM asthma patients without immunotherapy (WOIT), and HDM asthma patients treated with subcutaneous immunotherapy for 6 months before recruitment (WIT). They were enrolled according to the pulmonary function, skin prick tests, and HDM-specific IgE. CD4+ CD25+ and CD4+ CD25+ FOXP3+hi T cells Cell percentages, FOXP3 gene expression, and Sirtuin-1 (Sirt1) serum level were analyzed.

RESULTS

We found that there is a significant difference between WOIT and WIT groups in the CD4+ CD25+ and CD4+ CD25+ FOXP3+hi T cell percentages. While there is no statistically significant difference between WOIT and WIT groups in FOXP3 level. On the controversy, the SIRT1 level in the CT group (4.53 ± 3.880) significantly decreased in the WOIT and WIT groups.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed that both CD4 CD25 and CD4 CD25 high FOXP3 cell percentages increased in the WIT group and declined in the WOIT group. While, FOXP3 gene expression increased in both groups. In addition, the Sirt1 serum level showed some improvement in WIT group after a serious drop in the WOIT group comparing with the CT group. The modulation of these biomarkers for the remission and control of allergic asthma can be a prognostic outcome of immunotherapy which needs to be confirmed by larger scale studies.

Paeonol promotes longevity and fitness in Caenorhabditis elegans through activating the DAF-16/FOXO and SKN-1/Nrf2 transcription factors

Paeonol, as one of the most abundant plant-derived polyphenols, has multiple bioactivities including anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and anti-cardiovascular diseases. Nevertheless, the anti-aging effects and related mechanisms of paeonol are rarely reported. In this study, we found that paeonol significantly prolonged the mean lifespan of Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) by 28.49% at a dose of 200 μM. Moreover, paeonol promoted the health of C. elegans by increasing the body bending and pharyngeal pumping rates and reducing the lipofuscin accumulation level. Meanwhile, paeonol induced the expression of stress-related genes or proteins by activating the transcription factors DAF-16/FOXO, SKN-1/Nrf2, and HSF-1, which in turn enhanced oxidative and thermal stress tolerance. The mechanism behind the anti-aging effect of paeonol occurred by down-regulating the insulin/IGF-1 signaling (IIS) pathway. Our findings shed new light on the application of paeonol for longevity promotion and human health.

The FOXP3+ Pro-Inflammatory T Cell: A Potential Therapeutic Target in Crohn's Disease

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The incidence of Crohn's disease (CD) continues to increase worldwide. The contribution of CD4+ cell populations remains to be elucidated. We aimed to provide an in-depth transcriptional assessment of CD4+ T cells driving chronic inflammation in CD.

METHODS

We performed single-cell RNA-sequencing in CD4+ T cells isolated from ileal biopsies of patients with CD compared with healthy individuals. Cells underwent clustering analysis, followed by analysis of gene signaling networks. We overlapped our differentially expressed genes with publicly available microarray data sets and performed functional in vitro studies, including an in vitro suppression assay and organoid systems, to model gene expression changes observed in CD regulatory T (Treg) cells and to test predicted therapeutics.

RESULTS

We identified 5 distinct FOXP3+ regulatory Treg subpopulations. Tregs isolated from healthy controls represent the origin of pseudotemporal development into inflammation-associated subtypes. These proinflammatory Tregs displayed a unique responsiveness to tumor necrosis factor-α signaling with impaired suppressive activity in vitro and an elevated cytokine response in an organoid coculture system. As predicted in silico, the histone deacetylase inhibitor vorinostat normalized gene expression patterns, rescuing the suppressive function of FOXP3+ cells in vitro.

CONCLUSIONS

We identified a novel, proinflammatory FOXP3+ T cell subpopulation in patients with CD and developed a pipeline to specifically target these cells using the US Food and Drug Administration-approved drug vorinostat.

Frequency of natural regulatory T cells specific for factor VIII in the peripheral blood of healthy donors

Tolerance to self-proteins involves multiple mechanisms, including conventional CD4+ T-cell (Tconv) deletion in the thymus and the recruitment of natural regulatory T cells (nTregs). The significant incidence of autoantibodies specific for the blood coagulation factor VIII (FVIII) in healthy donors illustrates that tolerance to self-proteins is not always complete. In contrast to FVIII-specific Tconvs, FVIII-specific nTregs have never been revealed and characterized. To determine the frequency of FVIII-specific Tregs in human peripheral blood, we assessed the specificity of in vitro expanded Tregs by the membrane expression of the CD137 activation marker. Amplified Tregs maintain high levels of FOXP3 expression and exhibit almost complete demethylation of the FOXP3 Treg-specific demethylated region. The cells retained FOXP3 expression after long-term culture in vitro, strongly suggesting that FVIII-specific Tregs are derived from the thymus. From eleven healthy donors, we estimated the frequencies of FVIII-specific Tregs at 0.17 cells per million, which is about 10-fold lower than the frequency of FVIII-specific CD4+ T cells we previously published. Our results shed light on the mechanisms of FVIII tolerance by a renewed approach that could be extended to other self- or non-self-antigens.

CRIF1 deficiency induces FOXP3LOW inflammatory non-suppressive regulatory T cells, thereby promoting antitumor immunity

Recently identified human FOXP3lowCD45RA- inflammatory non-suppressive (INS) cells produce proinflammatory cytokines, exhibit reduced suppressiveness, and promote antitumor immunity unlike conventional regulatory T cells (Tregs). In spite of their implication in tumors, the mechanism for generation of FOXP3lowCD45RA- INS cells in vivo is unclear. We showed that the FOXP3lowCD45RA- cells in human tumors demonstrate attenuated expression of CRIF1, a vital mitochondrial regulator. Mice with CRIF1 deficiency in Tregs bore Foxp3lowINS-Tregs with mitochondrial dysfunction and metabolic reprograming. The enhanced glutaminolysis activated α-ketoglutarate-mTORC1 axis, which promoted proinflammatory cytokine expression by inducing EOMES and SATB1 expression. Moreover, chromatin openness of the regulatory regions of the Ifng and Il4 genes was increased, which facilitated EOMES/SATB1 binding. The increased α-ketoglutarate-derived 2-hydroxyglutarate down-regulated Foxp3 expression by methylating the Foxp3 gene regulatory regions. Furthermore, CRIF1 deficiency-induced Foxp3lowINS-Tregs suppressed tumor growth in an IFN-γ-dependent manner. Thus, CRIF1 deficiency-mediated mitochondrial dysfunction results in the induction of Foxp3lowINS-Tregs including FOXP3lowCD45RA- cells that promote antitumor immunity.

Deciphering the developmental trajectory of tissue-resident Foxp3+ regulatory T cells

Foxp3+ TREG cells have been at the focus of intense investigation for their recognized roles in preventing autoimmunity, facilitating tissue recuperation following injury, and orchestrating a tolerance to innocuous non-self-antigens. To perform these critical tasks, TREG cells undergo deep epigenetic, transcriptional, and post-transcriptional changes that allow them to adapt to conditions found in tissues both at steady-state and during inflammation. The path leading TREG cells to express these tissue-specialized phenotypes begins during thymic development, and is further driven by epigenetic and transcriptional modifications following TCR engagement and polarizing signals in the periphery. However, this process is highly regulated and requires TREG cells to adopt strategies to avoid losing their regulatory program altogether. Here, we review the origins of tissue-resident TREG cells, from their thymic and peripheral development to the transcriptional regulators involved in their tissue residency program. In addition, we discuss the distinct signalling pathways that engage the inflammatory adaptation of tissue-resident TREG cells, and how they relate to their ability to recognize tissue and pathogen-derived danger signals.

LPD-3 as a megaprotein brake for aging and insulin-mTOR signaling in C. elegans

Insulin-mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling drives anabolic growth during organismal development; its late-life dysregulation contributes to aging and limits lifespans. Age-related regulatory mechanisms and functional consequences of insulin-mTOR remain incompletely understood. Here, we identify LPD-3 as a megaprotein that orchestrates the tempo of insulin-mTOR signaling during C. elegans aging. We find that an agonist insulin, INS-7, is drastically overproduced from early life and shortens lifespan in lpd-3 mutants. LPD-3 forms a bridge-like tunnel megaprotein to facilitate non-vesicular cellular lipid trafficking. Lipidomic profiling reveals increased hexaceramide species in lpd-3 mutants, accompanied by up-regulation of hexaceramide biosynthetic enzymes, including HYL-1. Reducing the abundance of HYL-1, insulin receptor/DAF-2 or mTOR/LET-363, normalizes INS-7 levels and rescues the lifespan of lpd-3 mutants. LPD-3 antagonizes SINH-1, a key mTORC2 component, and decreases expression with age. We propose that LPD-3 acts as a megaprotein brake for organismal aging and that its age-dependent decline restricts lifespan through the sphingolipid-hexaceramide and insulin-mTOR pathways.

Foxp2 Is Required for Nucleus Accumbens-mediated Multifaceted Limbic Function

The forkhead box protein P2 (Foxp2), initially identified for its role in speech and language development, plays an important role in neural development. Previous studies investigated the function of the Foxp2 gene by deleting or mutating Foxp2 from developmental stages. Little is known about its physiological function in adult brains. Although Foxp2 has been well studied in the dorsal striatum, its function in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) of the ventral striatum remains elusive. Here, we examine the physiological function of Foxp2 in NAc of mouse brains. We conditionally knocked out Foxp2 by microinjections of AAV-EGFP-Cre viruses into the medial shell of NAc of Foxp2 floxed (cKO) mice. Immunostaining showed increased c-Fos positive cells in cKO NAc at basal levels, suggesting an abnormality in Foxp2-deficient NAc cells. Unbiased behavioral profiling of Foxp2 cKO mice showed abnormalities in limbic-associated function. Foxp2 cKO mice exhibited abnormal social novelty without preference for interaction with strangers and familiar mice. In appetitive reward learning, Foxp2 cKO mice failed to learn the time expectancy of food delivery. In fear learning, Foxp2 cKO mice exhibited abnormal increases in freezing levels in response to tone paired with foot shock during fear conditioning. The extinction of the fear response was also altered in Foxp2 cKO mice. In contrast, conditional knockout of Foxp2 in NAc did not affect locomotion, motor coordination, thermal pain sensation, anxiety- and depression-like behaviors. Collectively, our study suggests that Foxp2 has a multifaceted physiological role in NAc in the regulation of limbic function in the adult brain.

FOXL2 interaction with different binding partners regulates the dynamics of ovarian development

The transcription factor FOXL2 is required in ovarian somatic cells for female fertility. Differential timing of Foxl2 deletion, in embryonic versus adult mouse ovary, leads to distinctive outcomes, suggesting different roles across development. Here, we comprehensively investigated FOXL2's role through a multi-omics approach to characterize gene expression dynamics and chromatin accessibility changes, coupled with genome-wide identification of FOXL2 targets and on-chromatin interacting partners in somatic cells across ovarian development. We found that FOXL2 regulates more targets postnatally, through interaction with factors regulating primordial follicle formation and steroidogenesis. Deletion of one interactor, ubiquitin-specific protease 7 (Usp7), results in impairment of somatic cell differentiation, germ cell nest breakdown, and ovarian development, leading to sterility. Our datasets constitute a comprehensive resource for exploration of the molecular mechanisms of ovarian development and causes of female infertility.

Role of regulatory T cells in mouse lung development

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) constitute a specialized subset of T cells with dual immunoregulatory and modulatory functions. Recent studies have reported that Tregs mediate immune responses and regulate the development and repair processes in non-lymphoid tissues, including bone and cardiac muscle. Additionally, Tregs facilitate the repair and regeneration of damaged lung tissues. However, limited studies have examined the role of Tregs in pulmonary development. This study aimed to evaluate the role of Tregs in pulmonary development by investigating the dynamic alterations in Tregs and their hallmark cellular factor Forkhead box P3 (Foxp3) at various stages of murine lung development and establishing a murine model of anti-CD25 antibody-induced Treg depletion. During the early stages of murine lung development, especially the canalicular and saccular stages, the levels of Treg abundance and expression of Foxp3 and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) were upregulated. This coincided with the proliferation period of alveolar epithelial cells and vascular endothelial cells, indicating an adaptation to the dynamic lung developmental processes. Furthermore, the depletion of Tregs disrupted lung tissue morphology and downregulated lung development-related factors, such as surfactant protein C (SFTPC), vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) and platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 (PECAM1/CD31). These findings suggest that Tregs promote murine lung development.

Clinical phenotype of FOXP1 syndrome: parent-reported medical signs and symptoms in 40 individuals

BACKGROUND

The first studies on patients with forkhead-box protein P1 (FOXP1) syndrome reported associated global neurodevelopmental delay, autism symptomatology, dysmorphic features and cardiac and urogenital malformations. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of congenital abnormalities in an unbiased cohort of patients with FOXP1 syndrome and to document rare complications.

METHODS

Patients with FOXP1 syndrome were included, mostly diagnosed via whole-exome sequencing for neurodevelopmental delay. A parent-report questionnaire was used to assess medical signs and symptoms, including questions about features rated as most burdensome by patients and their family.

RESULTS

Forty individuals were included, 20 females and 20 males. The mean age at assessment was 13.2 years (median 8.5 years; range 2-54 years; ≥18 years n = 7). Seven adults were included. All patients had developmental problems, including cognitive, communication, social-emotional and motor delays. The most prevalent medical signs and symptoms include delayed bladder control, sleeping problems, hypermetropia, strabismus, sacral dimple, undescended testes, abnormal muscle tone and airway infections. The most burdensome complaints for patients with FOXP1 syndrome, as perceived by parents, include intellectual disability, impaired communication, behaviour problems, lack of age-appropriate self-reliance, attention problems and anxiety. According to parents, patients have quite similar reported symptoms, although incontinence, obsessions and a complex sensory profile have a higher ranking.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study may be used to further guide medical management and identify patient priorities for future research targeted on those features of FOXP1 syndrome that most impair quality of life of patients and their families.

Integrative analysis with machine learning identifies diagnostic and prognostic signatures in neuroblastoma based on differentially DNA methylated enhancers between INSS stage 4 and 4S neuroblastoma

INTRODUCTION

Accumulating evidence demonstrates that aberrant methylation of enhancers is crucial in gene expression profiles across several cancers. However, the latent effect of differently expressed enhancers between INSS stage 4S and 4 neuroblastoma (NB) remains elusive.

METHODS

We utilized the transcriptome and methylation data of stage 4S and 4 NB patients to perform Enhancer Linking by Methylation/Expression Relationships (ELMER) analysis, discovering a differently expressed motif within 67 enhancers between stage 4S and 4 NB. Harnessing the 67 motif genes, we established the INSS stage related signature (ISRS) by amalgamating 12 and 10 distinct machine learning (ML) algorithms across 113 and 101 ML combinations to precisely diagnose stage 4 NB among all NB patients and to predict the prognosis of NB patients. Based on risk scores calculated by prognostic ISRS, patients were categorized into high and low-risk groups according to median risk score. We conducted comprehensive comparisons between two risk groups, in terms of clinical applications, immune microenvironment, somatic mutations, immunotherapy, chemotherapy and single-cell analysis. Ultimately, we empirically validated the differential expressions of two ISRS model genes, CAMTA2 and FOXD1, through immunochemistry staining.

RESULTS

Through leave-one-out cross-validation, in both feature selection and model construction, we selected the random forest algorithm to diagnose stage 4 NB, and Enet algorithm to develop prognostic ISRS, due to their highest average C-index across five NB cohorts. After validations, the ISRS demonstrated a stable predictive capability, outperforming the previously published NB signatures and several clinic variables. We stratified NB patients into high and low-risk group based on median risk score, which showed the low-risk group with a superior survival outcome, an abundant immune infiltration, a decreased mutation landscape, and an enhanced sensitivity to immunotherapy. Single-cell analysis between two risk groups reveals biologically cellular variations underlying ISRS. Finally, we verified the significantly higher protein levels of CAMTA2 and FOXD1 in stage 4S NB, as well as their protective prognosis value in NB.

CONCLUSION

Based on multi-omics data and ML algorithms, we successfully developed the ISRS to enable accurate diagnosis and prognostic stratification in NB, which shed light on molecular mechanisms of spontaneous regression and clinical utilization of ISRS.

IRF4-mediated Treg phenotype switching can aggravate hyperoxia-induced alveolar epithelial cell injury

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is characterized by alveolar dysplasia, and evidence indicates that interferon regulatory factor 4 (IRF4) is involved in the pathogenesis of various inflammatory lung diseases. Nonetheless, the significance and mechanism of IRF4 in BPD remain unelucidated. Consequently, we established a mouse model of BPD through hyperoxia exposure, and ELISA was employed to measure interleukin-17 A (IL-17 A) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) expression levels in lung tissues. Western blotting was adopted to determine the expression of IRF4, surfactant protein C (SP-C), and podoplanin (T1α) in lung tissues. Flow cytometry was utilized for analyzing the percentages of FOXP3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) and FOXP3+RORγt+ Tregs in CD4+ T cells in lung tissues to clarify the underlying mechanism. Our findings revealed that BPD mice exhibited disordered lung tissue structure, elevated IRF4 expression, decreased SP-C and T1α expression, increased IL-17 A and IL-6 levels, reduced proportion of FOXP3+ Tregs, and increased proportion of FOXP3+RORγt+ Tregs. For the purpose of further elucidating the effect of IRF4 on Treg phenotype switching induced by hyperoxia in lung tissues, we exposed neonatal mice with IRF4 knockout to hyperoxia. These mice exhibited regular lung tissue structure, increased proportion of FOXP3+ Tregs, reduced proportion of FOXP3+RORγt+ Tregs, elevated SP-C and T1α expression, and decreased IL-17 A and IL-6 levels. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate that IRF4-mediated Treg phenotype switching in lung tissues exacerbates alveolar epithelial cell injury under hyperoxia exposure.

Exploring the clinical significance of IL-38 correlation with PD-1, CTLA-4, and FOXP3 in colorectal cancer draining lymph nodes

Introduction

Colorectal cancer (CRC) presents a substantial challenge characterized by unacceptably high mortality and morbidity, primarily attributed to delayed diagnosis and reliance on palliative care. The immune response of the host plays a pivotal role in carcinogenesis, with IL-38 emerging as a potential protective factor in CRC. However, the precise involvement of IL-38 among various leucocytes, its interactions with PD-1/PD-L1, and its impact on metastasis require further elucidation.

Results

Our investigation revealed a significant correlation between IL-38 expression and metastasis, particularly concerning survival and interactions among diverse leucocytes within draining lymph nodes. In the mesentery lymph nodes, we observed an inverse correlation between IL-38 expression and stages of lymph node invasions (TNM), invasion depth, distance, and differentiation. This aligns with an overall survival advantage associated with higher IL-38 expression in CRC patients' nodes compared to lower levels, as well as elevated IL-38 expression on CD4+ or CD8+ cells. Notably, a distinct subset of patients characterized by IL-38high/PD-1low expression exhibited superior survival outcomes compared to other combinations.

Discussion

Our findings demonstrate that IL-38 expression in colorectal regional nodes from CRC patients is inversely correlated with PD-1/PD-L1 but positively correlated with infiltrating CD4+ or CD8+ lymphocytes. The combined assessment of IL-38 and PD-1 expression in colorectal regional nodes emerges as a promising biomarker for predicting the prognosis of CRC.

Downregulation of TCF7 and LEF1 is a key determinant of tumor-infiltrating regulatory T-cell function

Forkhead box P3 (Foxp3)-expressing regulatory T (Treg) cells play essential roles in immune homeostasis but also contribute to establish a favorable environment for tumor growth by suppressing anti-tumor immune responses. It is thus necessary to specifically target tumor-infiltrating Treg cells to minimize effects on immune homeostasis in cancer immunotherapy. However, molecular features that distinguish tumor-infiltrating Treg cells from those in secondary lymphoid organs remain unknown. Here we characterize distinct features of tumor-infiltrating Treg cells by global analyses of the transcriptome and chromatin landscape. They exhibited activated phenotypes with enhanced Foxp3-dependent transcriptional regulation, yet being distinct from activated Treg cells in secondary lymphoid organs. Such differences may be attributed to the extensive clonal expansion of tumor-infiltrating Treg cells. Moreover, we found that TCF7 and LEF1 were specifically downregulated in tumor-infiltrating Treg cells both in mice and humans. These factors and Foxp3 co-occupied Treg suppressive function-related gene loci in secondary lymphoid organ Treg cells, whereas the absence of TCF7 and LEF1 accompanied altered gene expression and chromatin status at these gene loci in tumor-infiltrating Treg cells. Functionally, overexpression of TCF7 and LEF1 in Treg cells inhibited the enhancement of Treg suppressive function upon activation. Our results thus show the downregulation of TCF7 and LEF1 as markers of highly suppressive Treg cells in tumors and suggest that their absence controls the augmentation of Treg suppressive function in tumors. These molecules may be potential targets for novel cancer immunotherapy with minimum effects on immune homeostasis.

FoxO6-mediated ApoC3 upregulation promotes hepatic steatosis and hyperlipidemia in aged rats fed a high-fat diet

FoxO6, an identified factor, induces hyperlipidemia and hepatic steatosis during aging by activating hepatic lipoprotein secretion and lipogenesis leading to increased ApoC3 concentrations in the bloodstream. However, the intricate mechanisms underlying hepatic steatosis induced by elevated FoxO6 under hyperglycemic conditions remain intricate and require further elucidation. In order to delineate the regulatory pathway involving ApoC3 controlled by FoxO6 and its resultant functional impacts, we employed a spectrum of models including liver cell cultures, aged rats subjected to HFD, transgenic mice overexpressing FoxO6 (FoxO6-Tg), and FoxO6 knockout mice (FoxO6-KO). Our findings indicate that FoxO6 triggered ApoC3-driven lipid accumulation in the livers of aged rats on an HFD and in FoxO6-Tg, consequently leading to hepatic steatosis and hyperglycemia. Conversely, the absence of FoxO6 attenuated the expression of genes involved in lipogenesis, resulting in diminished hepatic lipid accumulation and mitigated hyperlipidemia in murine models. Additionally, the upregulation of FoxO6 due to elevated glucose levels led to increased ApoC3 expression, consequently instigating cellular triglyceride mediated lipid accumulation. The transcriptional activation of FoxO6 induced by both the HFD and high glucose levels resulted in hepatic steatosis by upregulating ApoC3 and genes associated with gluconeogenesis in aged rats and liver cell cultures. Our conclusions indicate that the upregulation of ApoC3 by FoxO6 promotes the development of hyperlipidemia, hyperglycemia, and hepatic steatosis in vivo, and in vitro. Taken together, our findings underscore the significance of FoxO6 in driving hyperlipidemia and hepatic steatosis specifically under hyperglycemic states by enhancing the expression of ApoC3 in aged rats.

Research progress on the regulatory mechanisms of FOXC1 expression in cancers and its role in drug resistance

The Forkhead box C1 (FOXC1) transcription factor is an important member of the FOX family. After initially being identified in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) with significant oncogenic function, FOXC1 was subsequently demonstrated to be involved in the development of more than 16 types of cancers. In recent years, increasing studies have focused on the deregulatory mechanisms of FOXC1 expression and revealed that FOXC1 expression was regulated at multiple levels including transcriptional regulation, post-transcription regulation and post-translational modification. Moreover, dysregulation of FOXC1 is also implicated in drug resistance in various types of cancer, especially in breast cancer, which further emphasizes the translational and clinical significance of FOXC1 as a therapeutic target in cancer treatment. This review summarizes recent findings on mechanisms of FOXC1 dysregulation in cancers and its role in chemoresistance, which will help to better understand the oncogenic role of FOXC1, overcome FOXC1-mediated drug resistance and develop targeted therapy for FOXC1 in cancers.

TLR2 agonist prevents the progression of periapical lesions in mice by reducing osteoclast activity and regulating the frequency of Tregs

AIM

To evaluate the role of regulatory T lymphocytes (Tregs) in the presence or absence of the synthetic ligand Pam3Cys during the progression of periapical lesion in wild-type (WT) and toll-like receptor 2 knockout (TLR2KO) mice.

METHODOLOGY

A total of 130 C57BL/6 male WT and TLR2KO mice were allocated into control (n = 5) and experimental (periapical lesion induction) (n = 10) groups. In specific groups (WT+Pam3cys and TLR2KO+Pam3cys), the synthetic ligand Pam3cys was administered intraperitoneally every 7 days, according to the experimental period (14, 21 and 42 days). At the end of those periods, the animals were euthanized, and the mandible and the spleen were submitted to histotechnical processing. Mandible histological sections were analysed by haematoxylin and eosin, TRAP histoenzymology and immunohistochemistry (FOXP3, RANK, RANKL and OPG). Spleen sections were analysed by immunohistochemistry (FOXP3).

RESULTS

The inflammatory infiltrate and bone resorption were more intense in the TLR2KO group compared to the WT group. The animals that received the Pam3cys had smaller periapical lesions when compared to the animals that did not receive the ligand (p < .05). TLR2KO animals showed a significant increase in the number of osteoclasts when compared to TLR2KO+Pam3cys group (p < .05). At 21 days, the WT+Pam3cys group had a lower number of osteoclasts when compared to the WT animals (p = .02). FOXP3 expression was more intense in the WT+Pam3cys groups when compared to the WT animals in the 42 days (p = .03). In the spleen analysis, the WT+Pam3cys group also had a higher expression of FOXP3 when compared to the WT animals at 14 and 42 days (p = .02). Concerning RANKL, there was a reduction in staining in the KOTLR2+Pam3cys groups at 21 and 42 days (p = .03) and a higher binding ratio between RANK/RANKL in animals that did not receive the ligand.

CONCLUSION

Administration of the Pam3cys increased the proliferation of Tregs, showed by FOXP3 expression and prevented the progression of the periapical lesion in WT mice. On the other hand, in the TLR2KO animals, Treg expression was lower with larger areas of periapical lesions. Finally, systemic administration of the Pam3cys in KO animals was able to limit the deleterious effects of the absence of the TLR2 receptor.

Increased infiltration of CD4+ IL-17A+ FOXP3+ T cells in Helicobacter pylori-induced gastritis

Helicobacter pylori is one of the main predisposing factors for gastric cancer, causing chronic inflammation and proper glands atrophy in the gastric mucosa. Although H. pylori-induced inflammation is a key inducer of precancerous lesions in the gastric mucosa, it remains unclear which precise immune cell subsets are responsible for the progression of H. pylori-induced gastritis. Here, we observed an abundance of CD4+ IL-17A+ FOXP3+ T cells exhibiting a Th17-like phenotype within the microenvironment of H. pylori-induced gastritis. Mechanistically, H. pylori upregulated the expression of IL-6 in Dendritic cells and macrophages, by activating NF-κB signaling through the virulence factor CagA and thus, induced IL-17A expression in FOXP3+ T cells. Moreover, CD4+ IL-17A+ FOXP3+ T cells were positively associated with advanced precancerous lesions. Therefore, these findings offer essential insights into how FOXP3+ T cells sense inflammatory signals from the environment, such as IL-6, during H. pylori infections, thereby guiding the effector immune response and aggravating the gastritis.

FOXS1 is increased in liver fibrosis and regulates TGFβ responsiveness and proliferation pathways in human hepatic stellate cells

Liver fibrosis commences with liver injury stimulating transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), causing scarring and irreversible damage. TGFβ induces expression of the transcription factor Forkhead box S1 (FOXS1) in hepatocytes and may have a role in the pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). To date, no studies have determined how it affects HSCs. We analyzed human livers with cirrhosis, HCC, and a murine fibrosis model and found that FOXS1 expression is significantly higher in fibrotic livers but not in HCC. Next, we treated human LX2 HSC cells with TGFβ to activate fibrotic pathways, and FOXS1 mRNA was significantly increased. To study TGFβ-FOXS1 signaling, we developed human LX2 FOXS1 CRISPR KO and scrambled control HSCs. To determine differentially expressed gene transcripts controlled by TGFβ-FOXS1, we performed RNA-seq in the FOXS1 KO and control cells and over 400 gene responses were attenuated in the FOXS1 KO HSCs with TGFβ-activation. To validate the RNA-seq findings, we used our state-of-the-art PamGene PamStation kinase activity technology that measures hundreds of signaling pathways nonselectively in real time. Using our RNA-seq data, kinase activity data, and descriptive measurements, we found that FOXS1 controls pathways mediating TGFβ responsiveness, protein translation, and proliferation. Our study is the first to identify that FOXS1 may serve as a biomarker for liver fibrosis and HSC activation, which may help with early detection of hepatic fibrosis or treatment options for end-stage liver disease.

FOXO3: at the crossroads of metabolic, inflammatory, and tumorigenic remodeling in the colon

The Forkhead box O3 (FOXO3) transcription factor regulates the expression of genes critical for diverse cellular functions in homeostasis. Diminished FOXO3 activity is associated with human diseases such as obesity, metabolic diseases, inflammatory diseases, and cancer. In the mouse colon, FOXO3 deficiency leads to an inflammatory immune landscape and dysregulated molecular pathways, which, under various insults, exacerbates inflammation and tumor burden, mimicking characteristics of human diseases. This deficiency also results in dysregulated lipid metabolism, and consequently, the accumulation of intracellular lipid droplets (LDs) in colonic epithelial cells and infiltrated immune cells. FOXO3 and LDs form a self-reinforcing negative regulatory loop in colonic epithelial cells, neutrophils, and macrophages, which is associated with inflammatory bowel disease and colon cancer, particularly in the context of obesity.

Natural bioactive compounds and FOXO3a in cancer therapeutics: An update

Forkhead box protein 3a (FOXO3a) is a transcription factor that regulates various downstream targets upon its activation, leading to the upregulation of tumor suppressor and apoptotic pathways. Hence, targeting FOXO3a is an emerging strategy for cancer prevention and treatment. Recently, Natural Bioactive Compounds (NBCs) have been used in drug discovery for treating various disorders including cancer. Notably, several NBCs have been shown as potent FOXO3a activators. NBCs upregulate FOXO3a expressions through PI3K/Akt, MEK/ERK, AMPK, and IκB signaling pathways. FOXO3a promotes its anticancer effects by upregulating the levels of its downstream targets, including Bim, FasL, and Bax, leading to apoptosis. This review focuses on the dysregulation of FOXO3a in carcinogenesis and explores the potent FOXO3a activating NBCs for cancer prevention and treatment. Additionally, the review evaluates the safety and efficacy of NBCs. Looking ahead, NBCs are anticipated to become a cost-effective, potent, and safer therapeutic option for cancer, making them a focal point of research in the field of cancer prevention and treatment.

Mechanistic regulation of FOXO transcription factors in the nucleus

FOXO proteins represent evolutionarily conserved transcription factors (TFs) that play critical roles in responding to various physiological signals or pathological stimuli, either through transcription-dependent or -independent mechanisms. Dysfunction of these proteins have been implicated in numerous diseases, including cancer. Although the regulation of FOXO TFs shuttling between the cytoplasm and the nucleus has been extensively studied and reviewed, there's still a lack of a comprehensive review focusing on the intricate interactions between FOXO, DNA, and cofactors in the regulation of gene expression. In this review, we aim to summarize recent advances and provide a detailed understanding of the mechanism underlying FOXO proteins binding to target DNA. Additionally, we will discuss the challenges associated with pharmacological approaches in modulating FOXO function, and explore the dynamic association between TF, DNA, and RNA on chromatin. This review will contribute to a better understanding of mechanistic regulations of eukaryotic TFs within the nucleus.

Characterization of the MT-2 Treg-like cell line in the presence and absence of forkhead box P3 (FOXP3)

CD4+ forkhead box P3 (FOXP3)+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) are essential in maintaining immune tolerance and suppressing excessive immune responses. Tregs also contribute to tissue repair processes distinct from their roles in immune suppression. For these reasons, Tregs are candidates for targeted therapies for inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, and in diseases where tissue damage occurs. MT-2 cells, an immortalized Treg-like cell line, offer a model to study Treg biology and their therapeutic potential. In the present study, we use clustered regularly interspaced palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-mediated knockdown of FOXP3 in MT-2 cells to understand the transcriptional and functional changes that occur when FOXP3 is lost and to compare MT-2 cells with primary human Tregs. We demonstrate that loss of FOXP3 affects the transcriptome of MT-2 cells and that FOXP3's potential downstream targets include a wide range of transcripts that participate in the cell cycle, promote growth and contribute to inflammatory processes, but do not wholly simulate previously reported human primary Treg transcriptional changes in the absence of FOXP3. We also demonstrate that FOXP3 regulates cell cycling and proliferation, expression of molecules crucial to Treg function and MT-2 cell-suppressive activities. Thus, MT-2 cells offer opportunities to address regulatory T-cell functions in vitro.

LET-381/FoxF and its target UNC-30/Pitx2 specify and maintain the molecular identity of C. elegans mesodermal glia that regulate motor behavior

While most glial cell types in the central nervous system (CNS) arise from neuroectodermal progenitors, some, like microglia, are mesodermally derived. To understand mesodermal glia development and function, we investigated C. elegans GLR glia, which envelop the brain neuropil and separate it from the circulatory system cavity. Transcriptome analysis shows that GLR glia combine astrocytic and endothelial characteristics, which are relegated to separate cell types in vertebrates. Combined fate acquisition is orchestrated by LET-381/FoxF, a fate-specification/maintenance transcription factor also expressed in glia and endothelia of other animals. Among LET-381/FoxF targets, the UNC-30/Pitx2 transcription factor controls GLR glia morphology and represses alternative mesodermal fates. LET-381 and UNC-30 co-expression in naive cells is sufficient for GLR glia gene expression. GLR glia inactivation by ablation or let-381 mutation disrupts locomotory behavior and promotes salt-induced paralysis, suggesting brain-neuropil activity dysregulation. Our studies uncover mechanisms of mesodermal glia development and show that like neuronal differentiation, glia differentiation requires autoregulatory terminal selector genes that define and maintain the glial fate.

A high concentrate diet inhibits forkhead box protein A2 expression, and induces oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction and mitochondrial unfolded protein response in the liver of dairy cows

High-concentrate diet induce subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA) and cause liver damage in ruminants. It has been reported that forkhead box protein A2 (FOXA2) can enhance mitochondrial membrane potential but its function in mitochondrial dysfunction induced by high concentrate diets is still unknown. Therefore, the aim of this study was to elucidate the effect of high-concentrate (HC) diet on hepatic FOXA2 expression, mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRmt), mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress. A total of 12 healthy mid-lactation Holstein cows were selected and randomized into 2 groups: the low concentrate (LC) diet group (concentrate:forage = 4:6) and HC diet group (concentrate:forage = 6:4). The trial lasted 21 d. The rumen fluid, blood and liver tissue were collected at the end of the experiment. The results showed that the rumen fluid pH level was reduced in the HC group and the pH was lower than 5.6 for more than 4 h/d, indicating that feeding HC diets successfully induced SARA in dairy cows. Both FOXA2 mRNA and protein abundance were significantly reduced in the liver of the HC group compared with the LC group. The activity of antioxidant enzymes (CAT, G6PDH, T-SOD, Cu/Zn SOD, Mn SOD) and mtDNA copy number in the liver tissue of the HC group decreased, while the level of H2O2 significantly increased, this increase was accompanied by a decrease in oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). The balance of mitochondrial division and fusion was disrupted in the HC group, as evidenced by the decreased mRNA level of OPA1, MFN1, and MFN2 and increased mRNA level of Drp1, Fis1, and MFF. At the same time, HC diet downregulated the expression level of SIRT1, SIRT3, PGC-1α, TFAM, and Nrf 1 to inhibit mitochondrial biogenesis. The HC group induced UPRmt in liver tissue by upregulating the mRNA and protein levels of CLPP, LONP1, CHOP, Hsp10, and Hsp60. In addition, HC diet could increase the protein abundance of Bax, CytoC, Caspase 3 and Cleaved-Caspase 3, while decrease the protein abundance of Bcl-2 and the Bcl-2/Bax ratio. Overall, our study suggests that the decreased expression of FOXA2 may be related to UPRmt, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and apoptosis in the liver of dairy cows fed a high concentrate diet.

BARX1 repressed FOXF1 expression and activated Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway to drive lung adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

Underlying molecular mechanisms of BARX homeobox 1 (BARX1) in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) remain elusive.

METHODS

Abnormally expressed genes in LUAD tissues were analyzed by RNA-sequencing. CCK-8, colony formation, transwell, and wound healing assays examined proliferation, colony formation, invasion, and migration of LUAD cells, respectively. Electrophoretic mobility shift assay and chromatin immunoprecipitation assay examined the interaction between BARX1 and Forkhead Box F1 (FOXF1). Xenograft mouse model of LUAD was constructed to monitor the growth and metastasis of tumor.

RESULTS

BARX1 was upregulated, FOXF1 was downregulated in LUAD tissues and cells. There was a negative correlation between BARX1 and FOXF1 expression. BARX1 deficiency limited malignant phenotypes of LUAD cells, including proliferation, invasion, migration and EMT. In vivo, BARX1 knockdown suppressed tumor growth and metastasis in A549-drove xenograft mouse model. BARX1 interacted with FOXF1 promoter and repressed FOXF1 expression. Upregulation of BARX1 promoted the expression of Wnt5a, β-catenin, and phosphorylated-glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta (p-GSK3β), whereas inhibited FOXF1, p-β-catenin, and GSK3β in LUAD cells. BARX1 knockdown caused an opposite result. Rescue assays uncovered that FOXF1 reversed the impact of BARX1 on malignant phenotypes and Wnt/β-catenin of LUAD cells.

CONCLUSION

BARX1 repressed FOXF1 expression and activated Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway to drive lung adenocarcinoma.

[Xixin Decoction regulates Th17/Treg balance and transcription factor expression in senescence-accelerated mouse-prone]

This study aims to investigate the effect of Xixin Decoction on the T helper 17 cell(Th17)/regulatory T cell(Treg) ba-lance of intestinal mucosa and the expression of related transcription factors in the senescence-accelerated mouse-prone 8(SAMP8) model. Fifty 14-week male mice of SAMP8 were randomized by the random number table method into model group, probiotics group, and high-, medium-, and low-dose Xixin Decoction groups, with 10 mice in each group. Ten 14-week male mice of senescence-acce-lerated mouse-resistant 1(SAMR1) served as control group. After 10 weeks of feeding, the mice were administrated with correspon-ding drugs for 10 weeks. Morris water maze test was carried out to examine the learning and memory abilities of mice. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA) was employed to determine the content of secretory immunoglobulin A(SIgA) in the intestinal mucosa, and flow cytometry to detect the percentage content of Th17 and Treg in the intestinal mucosa. Western blot was performed to determine the protein levels of retinoid-related orphan receptor gamma t(RORγt) and forkhead box p3(Foxp3) in the mouse colon tissue. Compared with control group, the escape latency of mice in model group was significantly prolonged(P<0.01), and the number of times of crossing the platform and the residence time in the target quadrant were significantly reduced within 60 s(P<0.01), intestinal mucosal SIgA content was significantly decreased(P<0.01), Th17 content was increased(P<0.05), Treg content was decreased(P<0.01), the expression of RORγt protein was increased and Foxp3 protein was decreased in colon(P<0.01). Compared with the model group, high-dose Xixin Decoction group improved the learning and memory ability(P<0.05 or P<0.01). Probiotics group and high-and medium-dose Xixin Decoction group increased the content of SIgA in intestinal mucosa(P<0.05 or P<0.01), decreased percentage content of Th17 and increased the percentage content of Treg in intestinal mucosa(P<0.05 or P<0.01). Furthermore, they down-regulated the protein level of RORγt and up-regulated the protein level of Foxp3 in the intestinal mucosa(P<0.01). In conclusion, Xixin Decoction may act on intestinal mucosal immune barrier, affect gut-brain information exchange, and improve the learning and memory ability of SAMP8 by promoting SIgA secretion and regulating the Th17/Treg balance and the expression of RORγt and Foxp3.