Age-Related Features of the Response of Cancer Stem Cells and T Cells in Experimental Lung Cancer

The responses of tumor stem cells and various populations of CD4 and CD8 T cells of young and aged C57BL/6 mice were studied in a lung cancer model. Using Lewis lung carcinoma cell line, an orthotopic model of lung cancer was modeled. Cancer stem cells, circulating tumor cells, and various populations of CD4 and CD8 T cells in the blood and lung tissue were studied by cytometry. We revealed age-related differences in the content of various populations of CD4 and CD8 T cells in the blood and lungs of intact young and aged mice. Age-related features of the reaction of various populations of cancer stem cells and CD4 and CD8 T cells in the blood and lungs of animals in the Lewis lung carcinoma were shown.

Age-Related Features of the Early Period of Liver Regeneration after Partial Hepatectomy in Rats

Regenerative processes in the liver were studied in 3-month-old (young) and 9-month-old (aged) male Wistar rats on day 1 after 30 and 70% hepatectomy. Regardless of the resected liver volume, shifts in the biochemical parameters of the serum in aged rats were more pronounced than in young animals. After 30% hepatectomy, no age differences in the rate of hepatic regeneration were found, while after 70% liver resection this parameter was higher in young rats. Hepatectomy in young rats led to recruitment of MSC, hepatocyte precursors, endothelial and epithelial progenitor cells into the liver parenchyma and increased fluidity of the plasma and mitochondrial membranes of hepatocytes. In aged rats, the recruitment of MSC, hepatocyte precursors, and endothelial progenitor cells into the injured liver was impaired and the rigidity of the mitochondrial membranes of hepatocytes increased.

Regenerative Potential of Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor Immobilized by Using Electron-Beam Synthesis Nanotechnology in an Experimental Model of Ovarian Reserve Depletion

The pharmacological activity of granulocyte CSF (G-CSF) immobilized using electron-beam synthesis nanotechnology (imG-CSF) was evaluated in an experimental model of ovarian reserve depletion. The effectiveness of the drug was compared with that of its unmodified form. Depletion of the ovarian follicular pool in female Sprague-Dawley rats was caused by a single intravenous injection of the antitumor drug etoposide in the maximum tolerated dose. The effectiveness of the studied drugs was assessed by serum concentration of anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) measured by ELISA and by the number of primordial, two-layer, multilayer, and atretic follicles counted on serial sections of the ovaries (5-μm thick; through the entire organ) stained with hematoxylin and eosin. It was found that imG-CSF prevents depletion of the ovarian reserve in the model used, which was confirmed by high AMH concentration and higher numbers of primordial, two- and multilayer follicles in comparison with the corresponding parameters in the control (etoposide), and by a decrease in the severity of atretic processes. Unmodified form of the drug demonstrated lower efficiency.

The Role of Cancer and Somatic Stem Cells in the Anti-Inflammatory and Antitumor Effects of Aconitum baicalense Extract on Experimental Breast Cancer

We studied the effects of the extract of the terrestrial part of Aconitum baicalense in BALB/c female mice at the early stages after the injection of N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU). The extract reduced inflammatory activity and tumor growth in the mammary gland. The antitumor and anti-inflammatory effects of the extract are based on the inhibition of cancer stem cells, hematopoietic stem cells, and hematopoietic progenitor cells that promote inflammation. The extract of A. baicalense disrupted the recruitment of epithelial progenitor cells and angiogenesis precursors to the mammary gland preventing neovascularization and transformation of epithelial cells into tumor cells.

Comparative Analysis of Stress-Protective Activity and Prevention of Fatigue during Physical Load of Standardized Humic Acids from Peat and Officinal Preparations of Succinic Acid in Experiment

The effect of humic acids and substances with similar action - derivatives of succinic acid (ethylmethylhydroxypyridine succinate) and combined agent consisting of succinic acid, nicotinamide, riboflavin, and riboxin on the performance and stress resistance of experimental rats was studied. Performance was assessed in the test of exhaustive forced swimming with a load, stress resistance was evaluated by the serum level of corticosterone and open field behavior, and the state of anaerobic metabolism was estimated by the serum level of lactate after swimming test. Humic acids from peat showed anti-stress activity comparable to that of the officinal preparation and preventive effect on fatigue during physical exercise. They can be recommended as a component for the development of drugs that increase human performance and stress resistance.

Early Diagnostic Markers and Therapeutic Targets for Experimental Breast Cancer

Various stem cells were studied in female BALB/c mice at the early terms after administration of N-methyl-N-nitrosourea to search early diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets. At these terms, damage to the epithelium and endothelium, inflammation, and fibrosis were observed in the mammary gland, but the tumor was not detected. Cancer stem cells, hematopoietic stem cells (HSC), hematopoietic progenitor cells, angiogenic precursors, and epithelial progenitor cells were found in the blood and mammary gland. Cancer stem cells (CD44⁺CD24^-) are proposed as the early diagnostic marker of breast cancer, and short-living HSC, hematopoietic progenitor cells, and angiogenic precursors (CD45-CD117⁺FLK-1⁺) as predictors of the formation of tumor microenvironment.

Age-Related Features of the Viscosity of Plasma and Mitochondrial Membranes of Hepatocytes in Liver Cirrhosis

The viscosity of plasma and mitochondrial membranes of hepatocytes was studied in young (3-month-old) and old (9-month-old) male Wistar rats. It was shown that viscosity of hepatocyte plasma and mitochondrial membranes in young rats under optimal vital functions in the area of protein-lipid membrane contacts was significantly lower than in old rats. No age-related differences in the viscosity of lipid-lipid membrane contacts and in the polarity of protein-lipid contacts and lipid layers were found. Liver cirrhosis induced by carbon tetrachloride and ethanol administration was associated with increased fluidity of the plasma and mitochondrial membranes of hepatocytes in rats of both age groups. The decrease in membrane viscosity in young rats occurred due to a decrease of the viscosity in the area of protein-lipid and lipid-lipid contacts, while in old rats in the area of protein-lipid contacts. Carbon tetrachloride and ethanol did not affect the polarity of lipid contacts and lipid layers.

The Role of Intracellular Signaling Molecules in the Production of Granulocytic CSF Mononuclear Phagocytes in Stress and Cytostatic Influence

Under conditions of steady-state hemopoiesis, nuclear factor NF-κB, in contrast to MAP kinase p38, plays an important role in the maintenance of the initial level of secretory activity of monocytes. The increase in the production of G-CSF under stress conditions (10-h immobilization) is mainly regulated by the alternative p38MARK signaling pathway via activation of p38 synthesis. It was shown that under conditions of cytostatic-induced myelosuppression, the production of protein kinase p38 in cells decreases, and it, like NF-κB, is not the main one in the production of hemopoietin by mononuclear phagocytes.

Experimental Evaluation of Long-Term Toxic Effects of Methotrexate on Male Reproductive System

The morphological and functional state of the reproductive system was studied in male outbred rats (SD stock) and male F1(CBA×C57BL/6) mice after long-term (3 months) methotrexate administration. The drug was administered subcutaneously once a week for 4 weeks, the dose for male rats was 1 mg/kg, for male mice 2.2 mg/kg. It was found that male rats retained the ability to conceive, their reproductive potential was not limited by increased risk of embryo death. At the same time, signs of astheno- and pathospermia were revealed. The testicular tissue was characterized by reduced content of the sources of the proliferative pool of spermatogenesis. In mice treated with methotrexate, increased content of DNA breaks was detected in the testicular cells.

Genetic Factors as the Basis of Sex Differences in Damage to Lung Endothelium and Regulation of Angiogenesis Cells in Modeling Pulmonary Emphysema in C57BL/6 Mice with Dyslipidemia and Hyperglycemia

We studied the formation of injuries in lung endothelium and the response of angiogenesis cells during modeling of pulmonary emphysema in male and female C57BL/6 mice with metabolic disorders. Hemodynamic disturbances and reduction in the area of the microvasculature caused by combined pathology in male mice were more pronounced than in females. Mobilization and migration of angiogenic precursors were impaired in both male and female mice. In males, activity of recruiting endothelial progenitor cells, vascular smooth muscle cells, luminal cells of nascent vessels and pericytes into the lungs was additionally reduced. In females, accumulation of endothelial progenitor cells (CD45^-CD31⁺CD34⁺), vascular smooth muscle cells, and pericytes in the lungs was observed, which indicated activation of endothelial regeneration. Sex differences in the reaction of the lung endothelium and angiogenesis cells can be explained by genetic factors of lipid and glucose metabolism.

Involvement of Signaling Cascades in Granulocytopoiesis Regulation under Conditions of Cytostatic Treatment

Suppression of the production of granulocytic CSF under the effect of 5-fluorouracyl is related to disorders in the NF-κB-, cAMP-dependent signaling pathways and MAPK cascade. These secondary messengers are involved in the regulation of functional activity of nonadherent myelokaryocytes starting from day 10 of the experiment (initial period of the hemopoietic granulocytic stem regeneration after antimetabolite challenge). Granulocytic CSF does not play essential role in the formation of colony-stimulating activity of cells of the adherent and nonadherent fractions of the bone marrow. Only cAMP-dependent pathway is involved in the regulation of the realization of the granulocytic precursor growth potential in response to the challenge.

Evaluation of the Effect of p-Tyrosol on the Level of DNA Damage in the DNA Comet Assay In Vivo

The effect of p-tyrosol on the spontaneous level of DNA damage in the cells of the bone marrow, liver, kidney, and rectum of mice (series I) and on the genotoxic effects of cytostatic drugs with different mechanisms of action in rat testicular cells (series II) was studied by DNA comet assay on C57BL/6 mice. p-Tyrosol was administered in a dose of 40 mg/kg once (series I) or for 5 days before and 5 days after cytostatic exposure (busulfan, paclitaxel, methotrexate; series II). It was found that p-tyrosol reduced spontaneous level of DNA damage in all studied organs. p-Tyrosol exhibited an antigenotoxic effect with respect to the DNA-damaging action of methotrexate and produced no genoprotective effect in case of busulfan and paclitaxel.

Blockade of Dopamine D2 Receptors as a Novel Approach to Stimulation of Notch1+ Endothelial Progenitor Cells and Angiogenesis in C57BL/6 Mice with Pulmonary Emphysema Induced by Proteases and Deficiency of α1-Antitrypsin

We studied the effects of spiperone, a selective blocker of dopamine D2 receptors, on the model of pulmonary emphysema provoked by administration of elastase and D-galactosamine hydrochloride to female C57BL/6 mice and characterized by activation of proteases in the lungs and systemic deficiency of its inhibitor α1-antitrypsin. In this model, spiperone prevented the development of inflammatory reaction and reduced the area of emphysematous expanded alveolar tissue. The expression of angiogenic marker CD31 in the lungs increased under these conditions. Regeneration of the damaged microvascular bed under the action of spiperone resulted from recruiting of Notch1⁺ endothelial progenitor cells (CD45^-CD31⁺CD34⁺) into the lungs and blockade of the inhibitory effect of dopamine on phosphorylation of VEGF-2 receptors in endothelial cells of different maturity. In addition, spiperone produced a protective effect on hepatocytes and restored the production and secretion of α1-antitrypsin by these cells.

Pericytes and Smooth Muscle Cells Circulating in the Blood as Markers of Impaired Angiogenesis during Combined Metabolic Impairments and Lung Emphysema

The changes in endothelial progenitor cells and progenitor cells of angiogenesis, pericytes and smooth muscle cells, were studied in female C57BL/6 mice with a combination of metabolic impairments induced by injections of sodium glutamate and lung emphysema modeled by the administration of cigarette smoke extract. It was observed that sodium glutamate significantly enhances pathological changes in the lungs (inflammation and lung emphysema) induced by the administration of cigarette smoke extract. Recruiting of endothelial progenitor cells (CD45^-CD31⁺CD34⁺ and CD31⁺CD34⁺CD146^-) and progenitor cells of angiogenesis (CD45^-CD117⁺CD309⁺) was registered in the injured lungs. Angiogenesis impairment induced by combined exposure is related to altered migration of pericytes (CD31^-CD34^-CD146⁺) and smooth muscle cells (CD31^-CD34⁺CD146⁺) in emphysema-like enlarged lung tissue.

Responses of Blood System to Doxorubicin/Docetaxel Chemotherapy in Patients with Breast Cancer

We studied the effects of combined chemotherapy with doxorubicin/docetaxel on erythroid and granulocytic hematopoietic lineages with particular attention focused on their recovery in patients with stages III-IV breast cancer. Intensification of differentiation of erythroid and granulocytic CFU (even under conditions of their suppressed proliferation) provided the increase in the content of mature and morphologically differentiated elements in the bone marrow and peripheral blood. High proliferative activity of erythroid and granulomonocytic precursors resulted from enhanced production of hematopoiesis-stimulating activities by microenvironment elements.

Endothelial Progenitor Cells as Pathogenetic and Diagnostic Factors, and Potential Targets for GLP-1 in Combination with Metabolic Syndrome and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

In clinical practice, there are patients with a combination of metabolic syndrome (MS) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The pathological mechanisms linking MS and COPD are largely unknown. It remains unclear whether the effect of MS (possible obesity) has a major impact on the progression of COPD. This complicates the development of effective approaches for the treatment of patients with a diagnosis of MS and COPD. Experiments were performed on female C57BL/6 mice. Introduction of monosodium glutamate and extract of cigarette smoke was modeled to simulate the combined pathology of lipid disorders and emphysema. Biological effects of glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) and GLP-1 on endothelial progenitor cells (EPC) in vitro and in vivo were evaluated. Histological, immunohistochemical methods, biochemical methods, cytometric analysis of markers identifying EPC were used in the study. The CD31⁺ endothelial cells in vitro evaluation was produced by Flow Cytometry and Image Processing of each well with a Cytation™ 3. GLP-1 reduces the area of emphysema and increases the number of CD31⁺ endothelial cells in the lungs of mice in conditions of dyslipidemia and damage to alveolar tissue of cigarette smoke extract. The regenerative effects of GLP-1 are caused by a decrease in inflammation, a positive effect on lipid metabolism and glucose metabolism. EPC are proposed as pathogenetic and diagnostic markers of endothelial disorders in combination of MS with COPD. Based on GLP-1, it is proposed to create a drug to stimulate the regeneration of endothelium damaged in MS and COPD.

Endothelial Progenitor Cells and Notch-1 Signaling as Markers of Alveolar Endothelium Regeneration in Pulmonary Emphysema

We studied the effects of elastase, cigarette smoke extract, D-galactosamine hydrochloride, and tyrosine kinase inhibitor SU5416 on endothelial progenitor cells and angiogenesis precursors, as well as on Notch-1 expression by immature endothelial cells. Simultaneously with pulmonary emphysema, different damaging factors with diverse mechanisms of action caused pathological changes in the microvascular network of the lungs and destroyed the alveolar endothelium in female C57Bl/6 mice. D-galactosamine hydrochloride disturbed mobilization of endothelial progenitor cells expressing VEGFR (CD45-CD309+) and angiogenesis progenitors (CD45-CD309+CD117+) and their migration into emphysema expanded lungs. Elastase inhibited VEGFR-expressing endothelial progenitor cells, while cigarette smoke extract inhibited cells with CD45-CD31+CD34+ phenotype. In pulmonary emphysema provoked by elastase or D-galactosamine hydrochloride, angiogenesis was provided by endothelial cells with CD45-CD31+CD34+ phenotype, whereas in emphysema modeled with SU5416 or cigarette smoke extract, it was provided by the endothelial VEGFR-expressing cells and mature CD31+ endothelial cells, respectively. Replenishment of immature endothelial cells damaged by elastase and SU5416 involved Notch-1+ angiogenesis precursors and Notch-1+ endothelial progenitor cells with VEGFR.

Mechanisms of Granulocytopoiesis Recovery Stimulation with Filgrastim in Breast Cancer Patients Receiving Chemotherapy

We studied myelotoxicity of modern schemes of chemotherapy for breast cancer (docetaxel/doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide/doxorubicin/5-fluorouracil) towards granulocytopoiesis, the mechanisms determining the differences of hematological effects of these schemes, and the efficiency of correction of the observed changes with granulocyte CSF (filgrastim). Granulocytopoiesis stimulation with filgrastim during the treatment with docetaxel/doxorubicin combination was more pronounced than during cyclophosphamide/doxorubicin/5-fluorouracil therapy. The observed differences were found at all levels of granulocyte lineage organization (central and peripheral), which is related to different effects of the cytostatic substances used in the proposed protocols on the structures controlling hemopoiesis.

Role of Sertoli and Leydig Cells in the Regulation of Spermatogonial Stem Cell and Development of Reproductive Disorders in Male C57Bl/6 Mice with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

Course administration streptozotocin to male C57Bl/6 mice induces a complex of symptoms typical of type 1 diabetes mellitus: hyperglycemia and insulin deficiency, focal inflammatory infiltration of the pancreas, destructive changes in the Langerhans islets, damage to the insular apparatus (reduced number of PDX1⁺ cells and insulin expression by the secreting cells). Male reproductive disorder are serious complications of type 1 diabetes mellitus. In "diabetic" mice, interstitial edema with inflammatory infiltration and microvascular disorders in the testicular tissue are observed, the number of endothelial precursors (CD45^-/CD31⁺) and the total number and percentage of motile spermatozoa decreased, immature spermatogenic epithelium cells are desquamated of into the lumen of the tubules. Disturbances in the proliferation and differentiation of various spermatogonial stem cell populations (c-kit^-/CD90⁺, c-kit⁺/CD90⁺, and CD51^-/CD24⁺/CD52⁺) in diabetes can be explained by the inhibitory influence of inflammatory factors on testosterone-producing Leydig cells.

Effects of Pegylated Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Analogue in C57Bl/6 Mice under Optimal Conditions and During Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes

Biological activity of a new pegylated form of an of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogue pegGLP-1 was studied in C57Bl/6 mice under normal conditions and during modeling of streptozotocin-induced type I diabetes mellitus. pegGLP-1 differs from GLP-1 (7-37) by polyethylene glycol residue covalently bound to His₇, Lys₂₆, and Lys₃₄ of the GLP-1 molecule. It was shown that single intragastrical administration of pegGLP-1 induced an increase in GLP-1 level in blood serum of healthy mice. The maximum level of this parameter was observed in 4-8 h. pegGLP-1 elimination half-time was 8.5 h and mean retention time was 15 h. Administration of pegGLP-1 to animals with modeled type I diabetes mellitus was followed by an increase in the levels of GLP-1 and insulin in blood serum, produced a hypoglycemic effect, and improved the parameters of glucose-tolerance test. Biological activity of pegGLP-1 was higher than activity of GLP-1.

Assessment of Erythroid and Granulocytic Hematopoietic Lineages in Patients with Non-Small-Cell Lung Carcinoma

The toxic effects of combined cisplatin/docetaxel therapy cycles on erythroid and granulocytic hematopoietic lineages as well as their intercycle recovery were examined in patients with stage III-IV non-small-cell lung carcinoma. Responsiveness of the blood system to this therapy remained at a high level. Combined therapy pronouncedly activated the key elements of the erythroid and granulocytic hematopoietic lineages leading to accumulation of immature and mature myelokaryocytes in the bone marrow, enlargement of the medullary pool of mature neutrophils, and increase in the count of medullary erythroid and granulocytic precursor cells under conditions of their accelerated maturation.

Cardiovascular Effects of High-Molecular-Weight Compounds of Humic Nature

The active ingredient extracted from the peat humic substances was characterized by physicochemical parameters evaluated by UV- and IR-spectroscopy, titration, and elemental (C, H, N) analysis. The cardiovascular effects of this ingredient were examined on isolated Langendorff-perfused rat heart. It was found that the active substance in a concentration range of 0.01-0.1 mg/ml produced a vasodilating effect; in addition, it decreased the end-diastolic and left-ventricular developed pressures.

Regenerative Potential of Spermatogonial Stem Cells, Endothelial Progenitor Cells, and Epithelial Progenitor Cells of C57Bl/6 Male Mice with Metabolic Disorders

The properties of spermatogonial stem cells, endothelial progenitor cells, and the epithelial progenitors of C57Bl/6 mice under conditions of metabolic disorders were studied using the model of busulfan-induced suppression of spermatogenesis and in vitro culture technique. Spermatogonial stem cells CD117-CD90⁺ and epithelial progenitors CD45-CD31-Sca-1⁺CD49f⁺ derived from the testes of mice with metabolic disturbances demonstrated 17- and 28-fold increase in the respective cell mass and generated cell colonies in vitro. In contrast, spermatogonial stem cells with immune phenotype CD51-CD24⁺CD52⁺ had reduced selfrenewal capacity. Spermatogonial stem cells CD117-CD90⁺ and CD117⁺CD90⁺ as well as endothelial progenitors CD45-CD31⁺ derived from the testes of donor mice with metabolic disorders demonstrated high transplantation capacity in C57Bl/6 mouse testes damaged by cytostatic busulfan.

Influence of Humic Acids Extracted from Peat by Different Methods on Functional Activity of Macrophages in Vitro

We studied activation of macrophages with humic acids extracted from peat of large deposits in the Tomsk region by two extraction methods: by hydroxide or sodium pyrophosphate. Humic acid of lowland peat types containing large amounts of aromatic carbon, phenolic and alcohol groups, carbohydrate residues and ethers, irrespectively of the extraction methods contained LPS admixture that probably determines their activating properties. Humic acid of upland peat types characterized by high content of carbonyl, carboxyl, and ester groups enhance NO production and reduce arginase expression, but these effects were minimized when sodium hydroxide was used as an extraction solvent. Pyrophosphate samples of the upland peat types were characterized by aromaticity and diversity of functional groups and have a significant advantage because of they induce specific endotoxin-independent stimulating action on antigen presenting cells.

Regenerative Potential of Stem and Progenitor Cells from Ischemic Testes of C57Bl/6 Mice in Culture and in the Model of Spermatogenesis Suppression Caused by Busulfan

The regenerative potential of stem and progenitor cells from ischemic testes of C57Bl/6 mice was studied in vitro (cell culture) and in vivo (mouse model of busulfan-induced suppression of spermatogenesis). Spermatogonial stem cells with phenotypes CD117^-CD90⁺ and CD51^-CD24⁺CD52⁺ from ischemic testes demonstrated 33-fold and 7-fold increments of cell mass and generated colonies in vitro. Epithelial (CD45^-CD31^-Sca-1⁺CD49f⁺) and endothelial (CD45^-CD31⁺) precursors exhibited lower self-renewal capacity. On day 30 after injection of stem and progenitor cells from ischemic testes to the rete testis zone of the testes of busulfantreated animals, an increase in the count of CD117^-CD90⁺ spermatogonial stem cells, total count, and mobile sperm count in the testes of recipient mice was observed. In addition, we observed an increase in Sca-1⁺ cell count, recovery of the spermatogenic epithelium in the seminiferous tubules, and appearance of immature Leydig cells in "busulfan" testes; the level of tissue testosterone and fertility index also increased.

Role of PI3K, MAPK/ERK 1/2, and p38 in Production of Erythropoietic Activity by Bone Marrow Cells after Blood Loss

The leading role in the regulation of erythropoietic activity of adherent bone marrow cells under conditions of post-hemorrhagic anemia is played by classical MAP kinase pathway (ERK pathway). Erythropoietin is not the decisive factor in the formation of erythropoietic activity of adherent cells. PI3K, MAPK/ERK 1/2, and p38-signaling proteins are not the main regulators of local production of erythropoietin after 30% loss of circulating blood volume.

Role of Tissue-Specific Stem and Progenitor Cells in the Regeneration of the Pancreas and Testicular Tissue in Diabetic Disorders

Using the model of hypogonadism in C57Bl/6 male mice, we showed that injection of streptozotocin to newborn animals and high-fat diet induced serum IFN-γ and IL-17 elevation, glucose metabolism disturbances, insulin resistance, destructive changes of the Langerhans islets (deficit of PDX1⁺β cells), while the number of oligopotent β cell precursors (CD45^-TER119^-CD133⁺CD49f^low) increased. Diabetes played the role of an inducer of testicular tissue inflammation (pan-hemopoietic cell infiltration, increase of IL-2, IL-17, and IL-23 content) and reproductive system disturbances in mice (decrease in free testosterone concentration, suppression of spermatogenesis, and infertility). The development of hypogonadism was paralleled by an increase in the count of spermatogonial stem cells (CD117⁺CD29⁺CD90⁺), multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (CD45^-CD31^-CD90⁺CD106⁺), hemangiogenesis precursors (CD45^-CD117⁺Flk1⁺), and epithelial cells (CD45^-CD31^-CD49f⁺CD326⁺).

Effects of Humic Acids Isolated from Peat of Various Origin on in Vitro Production of Nitric Oxide: a Screening Study

A screening study of biological activity of native humic acids isolated from peat was performed; several physical and chemical parameters of their structures were studied by UV- and infrared spectroscopy. Spectroscopy yielded similar shape of light absorption curves of humic acids of different origin, which can reflect similarity of general structural principles of these substances. Alkaline humic acids have more developed system of polyconjugation, while molecular structures of pyrophosphate humic acids were characterized by higher aromaticity and condensation indexes. Biological activity of the studied humic acids was assessed by NO-stimulating capacity during their culturing with murine peritoneal macrophages in a wide concentration range. It was shown that due to dose-dependent enhancement of NO production humic acids can change the functional state of macrophages towards development of pro-inflammatory properties. These changes were associated with high activity of humic acids isolated by pyrophosphate extraction, which allows considering effects of isolation method on biological activity.

Implication of JAK1, JAK2, and JAK3 in the Realization of Proliferation and Differentiation Potential of Mesenchymal Progenitor Cells In Vitro

Involvement of individual JAK kinases in the realization of growth potential of mesenchymal progenitor cells was examined in vitro. Important role of JAK2 and JAK3 in determining the initial level of mitotic activity of progenitor cells was established. The yield of fibroblast CFUF was suppressed under the effect of specific inhibitors of JAK kinases. Blockade of JAK3 increased the rate of progenitor element differentiation. JAK1 had no effect on proliferation and differentiation status of progenitor cells.

Role of Hematopoietic Stem Cells in Inflammation of the Pancreas during Diabetes Mellitus

The model of streptozotocin-induced diabetes mellitus in C57Bl/6 mice was employed to study the role of precursors of insulin-producing β-cells, hematopoietic stem cells, and progenitor hematopoietic cells in inflammation. In addition to provoking hyperglycemia, streptozotocin elevated serum levels of IL-1β and hyaluronic acid, induced edema in the pancreatic insular tissue and its infiltration by inflammatory cells (neutrophils, lymphocytes, and macrophages) and fibroblasts. Inflammation in pancreatic islets was accompanied by necrotic processes and decreasing counts of multipotent progenitor β-cells (CD45(-), TER119(-), c-kit-1(-), and Flk-1(-)), oligopotent progenitor β-cells (CD45(-), TER119(-), CD133(+), and CD49f(low)), and insulinproducing β-cells (Pdx1(+)). Pancreatic infl ammation was preceded by elevation of the number of short-term hematopoietic stem cells (Lin-Sca-1(+)c-kit(+)CD34(+)) relative to long-term cells (Lin(-)Sca-1(+)c-kit(+)CD34(-)) in the bone marrow as well as recruitment of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells into circulation. Transplantation of bone marrow hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells from diabetic C57Bl/6 donor mice to recipient CBA mice with 5-fluorouracilinduced leukopenia accelerated regeneration of granulocytopoiesis in recipient mice.

Response of Hematopoietic Stem and Progenitor Cells to Reserpine in C57Bl/6 Mice

We studied the response of hematopoietic stem cells and progenitor cells to sympatholytic reserpine in intact C57Bl/6 mice and in animals with cyclophosphamide-induced leukopenia. The count of long-term hematopoietic stem cells (Lin(-)Sca-1(+)c-kit(+)CD34(-)) in the bone marrow of healthy mice increased in 7 min after reserpine injection and remained elevated in 2 h in parallel with elevated content of short-term stem (Lin(-)Sca-1(+)c-kit(+)CD34(+)) and progenitor (Lin(-)Sca-1(+)c-kit(+)) cells. Reserpine produced no effect on recruitment of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells into the peripheral blood, but increased the serum level of granulocyte CSF and increased the count of metamyelocytes and neutrophilic granulocytes in the blood (in 2 h postinjection). Transplantation of bone marrow hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells from reserpine-treated donor C57Bl/6 mice to recipient CBA mice with 5-fluorouracil-induced leukopenia accelerated regeneration of the granulocytic lineage cells in leukemic mice. In cyclophosphamide-treated C57Bl/6 mice, reserpine reduced the level of short-term hematopoietic stem cells and increased the count of progenitor hematopoietic cells in the bone marrow in parallel with recruitment of the progenitors into the peripheral blood.

Pathogenetic Evaluation of Dysfunction in the Erythron System of Experimental Animals during Modeling of Iron Deficiency Anemia in the Gestation Period

We studied the dynamics of erythropoiesis in CBA mice during gestation against the background of treatment with iron-binding drug. The mechanisms of suppression of the bone marrow erythroid stem were evaluated. Administration of deferoxamine in a dose of 1 g/kg induced hypoplasia of the erythroid hemopoietic lineage. Suppression of bone marrow erythropoiesis manifested in a decrease of hemoglobin concentration and counts of reticulocytes, erythrocytes, and erythrokaryocytes. These changes were accompanied by a decrease in functional activity of erythropoietic precursors and secretion of erythropoietically active humoral factors by bone marrow myelokaryocytes. These data indicate that deferoxamine can be used for modeling of iron defi ciency anemia in pregnancy.

Effects of Water-Soluble Polysaccharides with Different Chemical Structure, Isolated from Acorus calamus L. and Trifolium pratense L., on Nitric Oxide Production: A Screening Study

Screening study of the effects of sweet flag (Acorus calamus L.) rhizome and clover (Trifolium pratense L.) aerial part on the production of NO by mouse macrophages was carried out. The polysaccharides were separated by ion exchange chromatography into fractions differing by monomeric composition and ramification type and were used in concentrations of 20, 40, and 100 μg/ml. Four fractions of Acorus calamus L. (PSF-101, PSF-102, PSF-103, and PSF-105), used in different concentrations, moderately stimulated nitrite production by macrophages. Three of five Trifolium pratense L. polysaccharides (PS62-3, PS62-4, and PS62-5) exhibited a significant specific effect on NO production. Rhamnogalactouronans from clover PS63-3 in all concentrations and from PS62-5 in a concentration of 100 μg/ml exhibited the highest activity, comparable to the NO-stimulatory activity of the reference LPS, while polysaccharide PS62-3 in a concentration of 40 μg/ml exhibited even higher activity.

Modulation of bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis by pegylated hyaluronidase and dopamine receptor antagonist in mice

Hyaluronidases are groups of enzymes that degrade hyaluronic acid (HA). To stop enzymatic hydrolysis we modified testicular hyaluronidase (HYAL) by activated polyethylene oxide with the help of electron-beam synthesis. As a result we received pegylated hyaluronidase (pegHYAL). Spiperone is a selective D2 dopamine receptor antagonist. It was demonstrated on the model of a single bleomycin damage of alveolar epithelium that during the inflammatory phase monotherapy by pegHYAL or spiperone reduced the populations of hematopoietic stem /progenitor cells in the lung parenchyma. PegHYAL also reduced the levels of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, interleukin (IL)-1β, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α in the serum and lungs, while spiperone reduced the level of the serum IL-1β. Polytherapy by spiperone and pegHYAL caused the increase of the quantity of hematopoietic stem/ progenitor cells in the lungs. Such an influx of blood cell precursors was observed on the background of considerable fall level of TGF-β and the increase level of TNF-α in the serum and lungs. These results show pegHYAL reduced the bleomycin-induced fibrosis reaction (production and accumulation of collagen) in the lung parenchyma. This effect was observed at a single and repetitive bleomycin damage of alveolar epithelium, the antifibrotic activity of pegHYAL surpassing the activity of testicular HYAL. The antifibrotic effect of pegHYAL is enhanced by an additional instillation of spiperone. Therapy by pegHYAL causes the flow of CD31‒ CD34‒ CD45‒ CD44+ CD73+ CD90+ CD106+-cells into the fibrous lungs. These cells are incapable of differentiating into fibroblast cells. Spiperone instillation separately or together with pegHYAL reduced the MSC-like cells considerably. These data enable us to assume, that pegHYAL is a new and promising instrument both for preventive and therapy of toxic pneumofibrosis. The blockage of D2 dopamine receptors with the following change of hyaluronan matrix can be considered as a new strategy in treatment of pneumofibrosis.

Participation of signaling cascades in the regulation of erythropoiesis under conditions of cytostatic treatment

We studied the role of signaling pathways in the regulation of erythropoiesis against the background of myelosuppression caused by administration of 5-fluorouracil. The important role of cyclic AMP in the maturation of erythroid progenitors after cytostatic treatment was demonstrated. The secretory activity of myelokaryocytes during the period of erythroid hemopoiesis recovery is mainly regulated via the p38 MAPK signaling pathway; non-erythropoietin factors are involved in the formation of erythropoietic activity of adherent cells of the microenvironment.

Involvement of NF-κB-dependent signaling and p38 MAPK signaling pathway in the regulation of hemopoiesis during restrain stress

Protein kinase p38 was shown to contribute to the increase in production of granulocyte CSF by microenvironmental cells under conditions of restraint stress. Stimulation of colony-forming activity was not accompanied by the increase in maturation of clonogenic structures in the bone marrow granulocytic stem. This process was realized with the involvement of NF-κB-dependent signaling and p38 MAPK signaling pathway. Our study showed that the p38 MAPK signaling pathway plays an important role in the regulation of granulocytopoiesis, but not of erythropoiesis.

Antifibrotic effects of immobilized hyaluronidase in repeated bleomycin-induced lesions of the alveolar epithelium

Antifibrotic activity of testicular hyaluronidase, immobilized on polyethylenoxide and obtained by electron beam synthesis, was studied on the model of bleomycin injuries to the alveolar epithelium (irreversible pneumofibrosis) in C57Bl/6 mice and compared to the effect of testicular hyaluronidase. Intranasal therapy with immobilized and testicular hyaluronidases prevented the deposition of fibrotic mass in the parenchyma of "bleomycin" lungs. The effect of immobilized hyaluronidase was more pronounced than that of testicular hyaluronidase. The studied compounds were virtually inessential for infiltration of the alveolar interstitium and alveolar tracts by lymphocytes, macrophages, neutrophils, and plasma cells. Unchanged histoarchitectonics of bleomycin-damaged lungs in immobilized hyaluronidase therapy was due to suppression of the progenitor fibroblast cells (CD45(-)).

Involvement of cAMP- and IKK-2-dependent signal pathways in the growth capacity of mesenchymal progenitor cells under the influence of basic fibroblast growth factor

We studied the role of cAMP- and IKK-2-dependent pathways under conditions of functional stimulation of mesenchymal progenitor cells by basic fibroblast growth factor. An adenylate cyclase inhibitor 2',5'-dideoxyadenosine had no effect on functional activity of early (primitive) mesenchymal precursors. This agent produced a stimulatory effect on proliferation of stromal precursor cells. Mitotic activity of mesenchymal progenitor cells was shown to decrease after treatment with a specific blocker of the IKK-2 kinase-inhibitor complex.

Effect of spiperone on mesenchymal multipotent stromal and hemopoietic stem cells under conditions of pulmonary fibrosis

The antifibrotic properties of spiperone and its effect on stem and progenitor cells were studied on the model of reversible bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in C57Bl/6 mice. Spiperone reduced infiltration of the alveolar interstitium and alveolar ducts with inflammatory cells and prevented the growth of the connective tissue in the parenchyma of bleomycin lungs. Apart from anti-inflammatory effect, spiperone suppressed bone marrow hemopoietic cells (CD3, CD45R (B220), Ly6C, Ly6G (Gr1), CD11b (Mac1), TER-119)-, Sca-1+, c-Kit+, CD34- and progenitor hemopoietic cells (granulocyte-erythroid-macrophage-megakaryocytic and granulocyte CFU). Spiperone-induced disturbances of fi brogenesis were paralleled by restoration of endothelial cells in the lung parenchyma, reduction of the number of circulating bone marrow cells and lung mesenchymopoietic cells (mesenchymal multipotent stromal cells (CD31-, CD34-, CD45-, CD44+, CD73+, CD90+, CD106+) and progenitor fi broblast cells), and suppression of multilineage differentiation of multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (including fi broblast-lineage cells).

Antifibrotic activity of conjugates based on amphiphilic pluronic F68 and hydrophobic pluronic L31 with hyaluronate-endo-β-N-acetylhexosaminidase in pulmonary fibrosis

Antifibrotic activity of intranasally administered conjugates of pluronics L31 and F68 with hyaluronate-endo-β-N-acetylhexosaminidase was studied in C57Bl/6 mice under conditions of single and repeated bleomycin-induced injury to the alveolar epithelium. Conjugates were prepared using the technique of protein immobilization with ionizing radiation. We demonstrate that in cases of single and repeated injuries to the alveolar epithelium, the conjugates administered during phases of inflammation or deposition of fibrotic masses prevent the development of pulmonary fibrosis. The conjugates demonstrated more pronounced antifibrotic activity than hyaluronate-endo-β-N-acetylhexosaminidase. The conjugate based on hydrophobic pluronic L31 showed higher effectiveness in comparison with the conjugate based on amphiphilic pluronic F68.

Differentiation of pancreatic stem and progenitor β-cells into insulin secreting cells in mice with diabetes mellitus

We studied in vitro differentiation of pancreatic stem and progenitor cells into insulin secreting cells in the model of streptozotocin-induced diabetes in C57Bl/6 mice. Streptozotocin was shown to increase the population of pancreatic oligopotent β-cell precursors (CD45(-), TER119(-), CD133(+), and CD49f(low)) and did not affect multipotent (stem) progenitor cells (CD45(-), TER119(-), CD17(-), CD309(-)). During long-term culturing, diabetic multipotent progenitor cells showed high capacity for self-renewal. A population of dithizone-positive (insulin secreting cells) mononuclear cells was obtained releasing insulin after prolonged culturing in suspension enriched with diabetic CD45(-), TER119(-), CD17(-), and CD309(-) cells. The rate of generation of "new" insulin-producing cells and insulin release in the samples of experimental group considerably exceeded activity of the corresponding processes in the control group.

Specific effects of chondroitin sulfate-modified hyaluronidase on the function of progenitor cells

We have demonstrated the possibility of stimulation of the function of various types of precursor cells with hyaluronidase modified with chondroitin sulfate. Parenteral administration of modified hyaluronidase increased the number of fibroblast, granulomonocyte, and erythroid CFU in the hemopoietic tissue. The changes in the pool of mesenchymal progenitor cells were more pronounced in comparison with those induced by native enzyme.

Effect of immobilized hyaluronidase on stem and progenitor cells in pulmonary fibrosis

The effect of immobilized hyaluronidase on stem and progenitor cells of the lungs was studied on the model of partially reversible toxic bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in C57Bl/6 mice. During the inflammation phase, immobilized hyaluronidase reduced infiltration of alveolar interstitium with hemopoietic stem cells Sca-1(+), c-Kit(+), CD34(-), (CD3, CD45R (B220), Ly6C, Ly6G (Gr1), CD11b (Mac1), TER-119)(-). Improvement of histological parameters of bleomycin lungs during the phase of collagen fiber deposition after the treatment was accompanied by accumulation of mesenchymal multipotent stromal cells (CD31(-), CD34(-), CD45(-), CD44(+), CD73(+), CD90(+), CD106(+)decrease in the population of pan-hemopoietic cells (CD45(+)), accelerated restoration of the content of endothelial cells, and inhibition of clonal activity of fibroblast precursors (CD45(-)).

Signaling events during macrophage activation with Betula pendula roth pectic polysaccharides

We studied the effect of two pectic polysaccharides PS-B1-AG and PS-B2-RG that were contained in total polysaccharides extracted from Betula pendula leaves on NO production by mouse macrophages and the contribution of signaling molecules to macrophage activation by the test substances. Unlike the total sample, pectins produced a NO-stimulating effect on macrophages. The effect of PS-B2-RG (10 μg/ml) did not differ from the effect of LPS, while PS-B1-AG produced this effect only in a concentration of 20 μg/ml, which was probably due to differences in the chemical structure of the test substances. The studied pectin polysaccharides activated transcription factor NF-κB, kinases p38 and PI3, and cAMP as a negative regulator. These results indicate that Betula pendula polysaccharides are promising substances for creation of immunomodulating drugs.

Antifibrotic activity of hyaluronidase immobilized on polyethylenoxide under conditions of bleomycin-induced pneumofibrosis

Hyaluronidase immobilized on polyethylenoxide obtained by electron bean synthesis was administered intranasally and intravenously to C57Bl/6 mice after intratracheal bleomycin and the enzyme effects on the development of pneumofibrosis in animals were studied. Intranasal immobilized hyaluronidase prevented connective tissue growth in the lungs exposed to bleomycin and virtually did not modulate the infiltration of the alveolar and alveolar duct interstitium by inflammatory cells (lymphocytes, macrophages, neutrophils, plasma cells). The antifibrotic effect developed sooner after intranasal inoculation of immobilized hyaluronidase and was more pronounced than after intranasal native hyaluronidase. Intravenous injection of immobilized hyaluronidase did not modify the inflammatory process and deposition of collagen fibrils in the lung parenchyma in pneumofibrosis.

Differentiation of mesenchymal multipotent stromal cells of the lungs in pneumofibrosis

We studied differentiation of multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (MMSC) of the lungs of C57Bl/6 mice with bleomycin-induced pneumofibrosis. Adherent mononuclear cells found in mouse lungs demonstrated mesenchymal phenotype and expressed CD44, CD73, CD90, and CD106, but not CD31, CD34, and CD45. The cells with MMSC characteristics differentiate in vitro into various cells of stromal lines (chondrocytes, osteogenic cells, adipocytes, and fibroblasts). Bleomycin increased the growth rate of MMSC and selectively promoted their differentiation towards fibroblast cells.

Effects of phospholipid hepatoprotectors on apoptosis during experimental liver pathology induced by isoniazid and paracetamol

Phospholipid hepatoprotectors essentiale, eplir, and their combinations with succinic acid decreased the relative content of apoptotic lymphocytes and granulocytes in the blood, content of TNF-α, total and indirect bilirubin, and activities of transaminases and alkaline phosphatase and increase the content of IL-10 in rats with experimental intoxication induced by isoniazid and paracetamol. A combination of eplir and succinic acid was most effective in preventing the development of leukocyte apoptosis.

Humoral mechanisms regulating the functions of progenitor cells in chronic hepatitis

We studied the secretory function of the liver and bone marrow microenvironment cells under conditions of chronic CCl4-induced hepatitis. Enhanced production of substances stimulating parenchymal tissue-specific precursors and stem cell homing factors by liver cells was observed. In situ binding of stem cells by bone marrow elements increased due to production of various cooperation and adhesion factors against the background of reduced SDF-1 secretion.

Effect of NF-κB inhibitor aurothiomalate on local inflammation in experimental Th1- and Th2-type immune response

We compared the effect of NF-κB inhibitor aurothiomalate and voltaren on local inflammation in different types of immune response. Both substances reduced edema caused by sheep erythrocytes (Th1-type immune response) and local immediate-type hypersensitivity response induced with ovalbumin (Th2-dependent response). The anti-inflammatory effects of aurothiomalate were similar to those of voltaren during Th1-type immune response.

Effect of hyaluronate-endo-β-N-acetylhexosaminidase pegylated by electron beam synthesis nanotechnology on the formation of hematological shifts in chronic hepatitis

We studied the effect of mobilization of bone marrow multipotent stem cells induced by intragastric administration of pegylated hyaluronate-endo-β-N-acetylhexosaminidase (Peg-HEAHA) on hemopoiesis under conditions of experimental chronic hepatitis. Peg-HEAHA increased the counts of hemopoietic precursors in the hemopoietic tissue against the background of their decelerated maturation. This was paralleled by a short-term decrease in the count of neutrophilic granulocyte in the bone marrow and a slight increase of neutrophil count in the peripheral blood.