Immunomodulatory effects of Kaempferol on microglial and Macrophage cells during the progression of diabetic retinopathy

BACKGROUND

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) stands as a prevalent secondary complication of diabetes, notably Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1D), characterized by immune system involvement potentially impacting the retinal immune response mediated by microglia. Early stages of DR witness blood-retinal barrier permeabilization, facilitating peripheral immune cell interaction with the retinal immune system. Kaempferol (Kae), known for its potent anti-inflammatory activity, presents a promising avenue in DR treatment by targeting the immune mechanisms underlying its onset and progression. Our investigation delves into the molecular intricacies of innate immune cell interaction during DR progression and the attenuation of inflammatory processes pivotal to its pathology.

METHODS

Employing in vitro studies, we exposed HAPI microglial and J774.A1 macrophage cells to pro-inflammatory stimuli in the presence or absence of Kae. Ex vivo and in vivo experiments utilized BB rats, a T1D animal model. Retinal explants from BB rats were cultured with Kae, while intraperitoneal Kae injections were administered to BB rats for 15 days. Quantitative PCR, Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and Spectral Domain - Optical Coherence Tomography (SD-OCT) facilitated survival assessment, cellular signaling analysis, and inflammatory marker determination.

RESULTS

Results demonstrate Kae significantly mitigates inflammatory processes across in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo DR models, primarily targeting immune cell responses. Kae administration notably inhibits proinflammatory responses during DR progression while promoting an anti-inflammatory milieu, chiefly through microglia-mediated synthesis of Arginase-1 and Hemeoxygenase-1(HO-1). In vivo, Kae administration effectively preserves retinal integrity amid DR progression.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings elucidate the interplay between retinal and systemic immune cells in DR progression, underscoring a differential treatment response predominantly orchestrated by microglia's anti-inflammatory action. Kae treatment induces a phenotypic and functional shift in immune cells, delaying DR progression, thereby spotlighting microglial cells as a promising therapeutic target in DR management.

Enumeration of olive derived lignan, pinoresinol for activity against recent Omicron variant spike protein for structure-based drug design, DFT, molecular dynamics simulations, and MMGBSA studies

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was first found in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. Because the virus spreads quickly, it quickly became a global worry. Coronaviridae is the family that contains both SARS-CoV-2 and the viruses that came before (i.e., MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV). Recent sources portray that the COVID-19 virus has affected 344,710,576 people worldwide and killed about 5,598,511 people in the last 2 years. The B.1.1.529 strain, later called "Omicron," was named a Variant of Concern on November 24, 2021. The SARS-CoV-2 virus has gone through a never-ending chain of changes that have never happened before. As a result, it has many different traits. Most of these changes have occurred in the spike protein, where antibodies bind. Because of these changes, the Omicron type is very contagious and easy to pass on. There have been a lot of studies done to try to figure out this new challenge in the COVID-19 strains race, but there is still a lot that needs to be explained. This study focuses on virtual screening, docking, and molecular dynamic analysis; we aimed to identify therapeutic candidates for the SARS-CoV-2 variant Omicron based on their ability to inhibit non-structural proteins. We investigate the prediction of the properties of a substantial database of drug molecules obtained from the OliveNet™ database. Compounds that did not exhibit adequate gastrointestinal absorption and failed the Lipinski test are not considered for further research. The filtered compounds were coupled with our primary target, SARS-CoV-2 Omicron spike protein. We focused on SARS-CoV-2 Omicron spike protein and filtering potent olive compounds. Pinoresinol, the most likely candidate, is bound best (- 8.5 kcal/mol). Pinoresinol's strong interaction with the active site made the complex's dynamic structure more resilient. MD simulations explain the protein-ligand complex's stability and function. Pinoresinol may be a promising SARS-CoV-2 Omicron spike protein receptor lead drug, and additional research may assist the scientific community.

Exploring bi-carbazole-linked triazoles as inhibitors of prolyl endo peptidase via integrated in vitro and in silico study

A serine protease called prolyl endopeptidase (PEP) hydrolyses the peptide bonds on the carboxy side of the proline ring. The excessive PEP expression in brain results in neurodegenerative illnesses like dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease. Results of the prior studies on antioxidant activity, and the non-cytotoxic effect of bi-carbazole-linked triazoles, encouraged us to extend our studies towards its anti-diabetic potential. Hence, for this purpose all compounds 1-9 were evaluated to reveal their anti-prolyl endo peptidase activity. Fortunately, seven compounds resulted into significant inhibitory capability ranging from 26 to 63 µM. Among them six compounds 4-9 exhibited more potent inhibitory activity with IC50 values 46.10 ± 1.16, 42.30 ± 1.18, 37.14 ± 1.21, 26.29 ± 0.76, 28.31 ± 0.64 and 31.11 ± 0.84 µM respectively, while compound 3 was the least active compound in the series with IC50 value 63.10 ± 1.58 µM comparing with standard PEP inhibitor bacitracin (IC50 = 125 ± 1.50 µM). Moreover, mechanistic study was performed for the most active compounds 7 and 8 with Ki values 24.10 ± 0.0076 and 23.67 ± 0.0084 µM respectively. Further, the in silico studies suggested that the compounds exhibited potential interactions and significant molecular conformations, thereby elucidating the structural basis for their inhibitory effects.

Effects of dietary wheat supplementation levels on growth performance, rumen bacterial community and fermentation parameters in Chinese Tibetan Sheep

The objective of this study was to evaluate various wheat supplementation levels on rumen microbiota and fermentation parameter in Tibetan sheep. A total of ninety ram with an average 12.37 ± 0.92 kg at the age of 2 months were randomly allocated to three treatments: 0% wheat diet (CW, N = 30), 10% wheat diet (LW, N = 30), and 15% wheat diet (HW, N = 30) on a dry matter basis. The experiment was conducted over a period of 127 days, including 7 days of adaption to the diets. Our results showed that sheep fed 10% wheat exhibited optimal average daily gain and feed gain ratio compared with HW group (p < 0.05). The serum alkaline phosphatase concentration was the lowest when fed the 10% wheat diet (p < 0.05), whereas serum aspartate aminotransferase concentration was the highest (p < 0.05). Both acetate and propionate increased with increase in dietary wheat ratio (p < 0.05), while a greater decrease in concentrations of NH3 -N was observed (p < 0.05). In rumen fluid, 3413 OTUs were obtained with 97% consistency. Phylum Firmicutes was the predominant bacteria and accounted for 49.04%. The CW groups supported significantly increased the abundance of Bacteroidetes (p < 0.05), as compared with the HW group. The abundance of Bacteroidales_UCG-001, Ruminococcus, and Mitsuokella possessed a higher relative abundance in HW group (p < 0.05). No differences in the bacterial community and fermentation parameters were observed between the sheep fed 0% and 10% wheat (p > 0.05). Ruminal bacterial community structure was significantly correlated with isobutyrite (r2  = 0.4878, p = 0.035) and valerate (r2  = 0.4878, p = 0.013). In conclusion, supplementation of 10% wheat in diet promoted the average daily gain and never altered microbial community structure and fermentation pattern, which can be effectively replace partial corn in Chinese Tibetan Sheep.

Identification of potential biomarkers for melanoma cancer (black tumor) using bioinformatics strategy: a study based on GEO and SRA datasets

Melanoma, a highly invasive type of skin cancer that penetrates the entire dermis layer, is associated with increased mortality rates. Excessive exposure of the skin to sunlight, specifically ultraviolet radiation, is the underlying cause of this malignant condition. The appearance of unique skin moles represents a visible clue, referred to as the "ugly duckling" sign, indicating the presence of melanoma and its association with cellular DNA damage. This research aims to explore potential biomarkers derived from microarray data, employing bioinformatics techniques and methodologies, for a thorough investigation of melanoma skin cancer. The microarray dataset for melanoma skin cancer was obtained from the GEO database, and thorough data analysis and quality control measures were performed to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The top 14 highly expressed DEGs were identified, and their gene information and protein sequences were retrieved from the NCBI gene and protein database. These proteins were further analyzed for domain identification and network analysis. Gene expression analysis was conducted to visualize the upregulated and downregulated genes. Additionally, gene metabolite network analysis was carried out to understand the interactions between highly interconnected genes and regulatory transcripts. Molecular docking was employed to investigate the ligand-binding sites and visualize the three-dimensional structure of proteins. Our research unveiled a collection of genes with varying expression levels, some elevated and others reduced, which could function as promising biomarkers closely linked to the development and advancement of melanoma skin cancer. Through molecular docking analysis of the GINS2 protein, we identified two natural compounds (PubChem-156021169 and PubChem-60700) with potential as inhibitors against melanoma. This research has implications for early detection, treatment, and understanding the molecular basis of melanoma.

Protective effect of Moringa oleifera leaf ethanolic extract against uranyl acetate-induced testicular dysfunction in rats

Uranyl acetate (UA) is used in civilian and military applications, predisposing it to wide dispersion in ecosystems. Using high-performance liquid chromatography, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl scavenging radical analysis, we confirmed that Moringa oleifera leaf ethanolic extract (MLEE) is rich in biologically active phytochemicals. Thus, this study aims to investigate the possible defensive effect of MLEE against UA-induced testicular dysfunction. To achieve this, rats were divided randomly and evenly into three groups for 14 days. The control group received no treatment, while the UA group received a single intraperitoneal injection of UA at a dose of 5 mg/kg BW dissolved in saline on the 12th day of the experiment, followed by no treatment the following day. The MLEE + UA group received daily oral administration of MLEE (300 mg/kg BW) dissolved in distilled water before exposure to UA intoxication. The disruption observed in the pituitary-gonadal axis of UA-intoxicated rats was characterized by a significant decrease in luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, testosterone, and estradiol 17beta levels. Additionally, there was a notable increase in malondialdehyde and a decrease in catalase, superoxide dismutase, reduced glutathione, and nitric oxide, accompanied by an up-regulation in the immuno-expression of nuclear factor-kappa B, indicating a disturbance in the redox balance. The TUNEL assay confirmed a substantial rise in apoptotic cell numbers in the UA group. Testicular histopathological changes, excessive collagen deposition, and reduced glycogen content were evident following UA exposure. However, supplementation with MLEE effectively countered these mentioned abnormalities. MLEE is proposed to combat the toxicological molecular targets in the UA-affected testis by restoring the balance between oxidants and antioxidants while obstructing the apoptotic cascade. MLEE contains an abundance of redox-stabilizing and cytoprotective phytochemicals that have the potential to counteract the mechanistic pathways associated with UA exposure. These findings encourage further research into other plausible protective aspects of Moringa oleifera against the UA challenge.

Molecular dynamics exploration of Lupenone: therapeutic implications for glioblastoma multiforme and alzheimer's amyloid beta pathogenesis

Neuro-oncological and neurodegenerative disorders, represented paradigmatically by glioblastoma and Alzheimer's disease, respectively, persist as formidable challenges in the biomedical realm. The interconnected molecular underpinnings of these conditions necessitate rigorous and novel therapeutic examinations. This comprehensive research was anchored on the premise of unveiling the therapeutic potential and specificity of Lupenone, a potent phytoconstituent, in targeting the molecular pathways underpinning both glioblastoma and Alzheimer's amyloid beta pathology. This was gauged through its interactions with key protein structures, 5H08 and 2ZHV. An integrative approach was adopted, marrying advanced proteomics and modern computer-aided drug design techniques. Molecular docking of Lupenone with 5H08 and 2ZHV was meticulously executed, with subsequent molecular dynamics simulations providing insights into the stability, viability, and intricacies of these interactions. Lupenone demonstrated profound binding affinities, evidenced by robust docking scores of -9.54 kcal/mol for 5H08 and -10.59 kcal/mol for 2ZHV. These interactions underscored Lupenone's eminent therapeutic potential in mitigating glioblastoma and modulating the amyloid beta pathology inherent to Alzheimer's. The introduction of Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs) further magnified the therapeutic prospects, accentuating Lupenone's efficacy. The findings of this study not only underscore the therapeutic acumen of Lupenone in addressing the challenges posed by glioblastoma and Alzheimer's but also lay a strong foundation for its consideration as a leading candidate in future neuro-oncological and neurodegenerative research endeavors. Given the compelling in-silico data, a clarion call is made for its empirical validation in holistic in-vivo settings, potentially pioneering a new therapeutic epoch in both glioblastoma and Alzheimer's interventions.

Identification of potential inhibitors targeting Ebola virus VP35 protein: a computational strategy

Ebola virus (EBOV) poses a severe threat as a highly infectious pathogen, causing devastating hemorrhagic fever in both humans and animals. The EBOV virus VP35 protein plays a crucial role in viral replication and exhibits the ability to suppress the host interferon cascade, leading to immune system depletion. As a potential drug target, VP35 protein inhibition holds promise for combating EBOV. To discover new drug candidates, we employed a computer-aided drug design approach, focusing on compounds capable of inhibiting VP35 protein replication. In this connection, a pharmacophore model was generated using molecular interactions between the VP35 protein and its inhibitor. ZINC and Cambridge database were screened using validated pharmacophore model. Further the compounds were filtered based on Lipinski's rule of five and subjected to MD simulation and relative binding free energy calculation. Six compounds manifest a significant docking score and strong binding interaction towards VP35 protein. MD simulations further confirmed the remarkable stability of these six complexes. Relative binding free energy calculations also showed significant ΔG value in the range of -132.3 and -49.3 kcal/mol. This study paves the way for further optimization of these compounds as potential inhibitors of VP35, facilitating subsequent experimental in vitro studies.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

The body weight heritability and the effect of non-genetic factors on the body measurement traits in Qinchuan cattle

This study aimed to understand the influence of the non-genetic factors that include breeding year, season, and sex of growth and development traits of Qinchuan cattle and to estimate the heritability of body weight at different growth stages. The Qinchuan cattle measurement records were by the Experiment farm of the National Beef Cattle Improvement Center (Yangling, China) from 2000 to 2017. SPSS and R software were used to analyze the influence of non-genetic factors on body size traits that include body weight (BW), withers height (WH), hip height (HH), body length (BL), chest circumference (CC), abdominal girth (AG), and calf girth (CG), at birth, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months of age. Meanwhile, the single-trait animal model of DMU software was used to estimate the variance component and the heritability of body weight. The results of GLM analysis showed as follows: sex, birth year, and birth season had effects on the body size traits of Qinchuan cattle at different growth stages. Respectively, the heritability of body weight at birth, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months of age were 0.43, 0.32, 0.37, 0.32, and 0.38.

Buspirone attenuated methotrexate-induced hippocampal toxicity in rats by regulating Nrf2/HO-1, PPAR-γ, NF-κB/nNOS, and ROS/NLRP3/caspase-1 signaling pathways

Methotrexate (MTX) is a chemotherapeutic agent widely used to treat a variety of tumors. Nonetheless, MTX-induced hippocampal neurotoxicity is a well-defined dose-limiting adverse effect that limits clinical utility. Proinflammatory cytokine production and oxidative stress are possible mechanisms for MTX-induced neurotoxicity. Buspirone (BSP), a partial agonist of the 5-HT1a receptor (5-HT1aR), has emerged as an anxiolytic drug. BSP has been shown to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. The current study investigated BSP's potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in attenuating MTX-induced hippocampal toxicity. Rats received either BSP (1.5 mg/kg) orally for 10 days and MTX (20 mg/kg) i.p. on Day 5. BSP administration markedly protected hippocampal neurons from drastic degenerated neuronal changes induced by MTX. BSP significantly attenuated oxidative injury by downregulating Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 expression while potently elevating hippocampal Nrf2, heme oxygenase-1, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor expression. BSP dampened inflammation by reducing NO2 - , tumor necrosis factor-alpha, IL-6, and interleukin 1 beta levels mediated by downregulating NF-κB and neuronal nitric oxides synthase expression. Moreover, BSP potently counteracted hippocampal pyroptosis by downregulating NLRP3, ASC, and cleaved-caspase-1 proteins. Therefore, BSP may represent a promising approach to attenuate neurotoxicity in patients receiving MTX.

Assembling a Cinnamyl Pharmacophore in the C3-Position of Substituted Isatins via Microwave-Assisted Synthesis: Development of a New Class of Monoamine Oxidase-B Inhibitors for the Treatment of Parkinson's Disease

Monoamine oxidase (MAO, EC 1.4.3.4) is responsible for the oxidative breakdown of both endogenous and exogenous amines and exists in MAO-A and MAO-B isomers. Eighteen indole-based phenylallylidene derivatives were synthesized via nucleophilic addition reactions comprising three sub-series, IHC, IHMC, and IHNC, and were developed and examined for their ability to inhibit MAO. Among them, compound IHC3 showed a strong MAO-B inhibitory effect with an IC50 (half-maximal inhibitory concentration) value of 1.672 μM, followed by IHC2 (IC50 = 16.934 μM). Additionally, IHC3 showed the highest selectivity index (SI) value of >23.92. The effectiveness of IHC3 was lower than the reference pargyline (0.14 μM); however, the SI value was higher than pargyline (17.16). Structurally, the IHC (-H in the B-ring) sub-series exhibited relatively stronger MAO-B inhibition than the others. In the IHC series, IHC3 (-F in the A-ring) exhibited stronger MAO-B suppression than the other substituted derivatives in the order -F > -Br > -Cl > -OCH3, -CH3, and -H at the 2-position in the A-ring. In the reversibility and enzyme kinetics experiments, IHC3 was a reversible inhibitor with a Ki value of 0.51 ± 0.15 μM for MAO-B. Further, it was observed that IHC3 greatly decreased the cell death caused by rotenone in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells. A molecular docking study of the lead molecule was also performed to determine hypothetical interactions in the enzyme-binding cavity. These findings suggest that IHC3 is a strong, specific, and reversible MAO-B inhibitor that can be used to treat neurological diseases.

Identification of the hub genes related to adipose tissue metabolism of bovine

Due to the demand for high-quality animal protein, there has been consistent interest in how to obtain more high-quality beef. As well-known, the adipose content of beef has a close connection with the taste and quality of beef, and cattle with different energy or protein diet have corresponding effects on the lipid metabolism of beef. Thus, we performed weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) with subcutaneous adipose genes from Norwegian red heifers fed different diets to identify hub genes regulating bovine lipid metabolism. For this purpose, the RNA sequencing data of subcutaneous adipose tissue of 12-month-old Norwegian red heifers (n = 48) with different energy or protein levels were selected from the GEO database, and 7,630 genes with the largest variation were selected for WGCNA analysis. Then, three modules were selected as hub genes candidate modules according to the correlation between modules and phenotypes, including pink, magenta and grey60 modules. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis showed that genes were related to metabolism, and participated in Rap, MAPK, AMPK, VEGF signaling pathways, and so forth. Combined gene interaction network analysis using Cytoscape software, eight hub genes of lipid metabolism were identified, including TIA1, LOC516108, SNAPC4, CPSF2, ZNF574, CLASRP, MED15 and U2AF2. Further, the expression levels of hub genes in the cattle tissue were also measured to verify the results, and we found hub genes in higher expression in muscle and adipose tissue in adult cattle. In summary, we predicted the key genes of lipid metabolism in the subcutaneous adipose tissue that were affected by the intake of various energy diets to find the hub genes that coordinate lipid metabolism, which provide a theoretical basis for regulating beef quality.

Blockage of KHSRP-NLRP3 by MCC950 Can Reverse the Effect of Manganese-Induced Neuroinflammation in N2a Cells and Rat Brain

Manganese neurotoxicity has been reported to cause a neurodegenerative disease known as parkinsonism. Previous reports have shown that the expression of the KH-type splicing regulatory protein (KHSRP), a nucleic acid-binding protein, and NLRP3 is increased upon Mn exposure. However, the relation between these two during Mn toxicity has not been fully deduced. The mouse neuroblastoma (N2a) and SD rats are treated with LPS and MnCl2 to evaluate the expression of KHSRP and NLRP3. Further, the effect of the NLRP3 inhibitor MCC950 is checked on the expression of NLRP3, KHSRP and pro-inflammatory markers (TNFα, IL-18 and IL-1β) as well as the caspase-1 enzyme. Our results demonstrated an increment in NLRP3 and KHSRP expression post-MnCl2 exposure in N2a cells and rat brain, while on the other hand with LPS exposure only NLRP3 expression levels were elevated and KHSRP was found to be unaffected. An increased expression of KHSRP, NLRP3, pro-inflammatory markers and the caspase-1 enzyme was observed to be inhibited with MCC950 treatment in MnCl2-exposed cells and rats. Manganese exposure induces NLRP3 and KHSRP expression to induce neuroinflammation, suggesting a correlation between both which functions in toxicity-related pathways. Furthermore, MCC950 treatment reversed the role of KHSRP from anti-inflammatory to pro-inflammatory.

Mitigative Potential of Novel <i>Lactobacillus plantarum</i> TISTR 2076 against the Aflatoxins-Associated Oxidative Stress and Histopathological Alterations in Liver and Kidney of Broiler Chicks during the Entire Growth Period

Aflatoxins are the secondary metabolites produced by <i>Aspergillus flavus</i> and <i>Aspergillus parasiticus</i> and have severe pathological effects on the health of human and animals. The present study was designed to investigate the toxicopathological changes induced by aflatoxins and mitigative potential of <i>Lactobacillus plantarum</i> in broiler birds. One hundred and eighty broiler chicks at one day of age was procured from the local market, and chicks were equally divided into six groups with thirty birds in each group. These birds were treated with aflatoxins (300 and 600 µg/kg) and <i>Lactobacillus plantarum</i> (1 × 10⁸ cfu/kg of feed) in different combinations. The first group was kept as the control, and only a basal diet was provided to birds (BD). In the second group (AF1), the first level of aflatoxins (300 µg/kg) was fed to the birds. In the third group (AF2), the second level of aflatoxins (600 µg/kg) was fed to birds. In the fourth group (AF1LP), <i>Lactobacillus plantarum</i> was given with first level of aflatoxins. In the fifth group (AF2LP), <i>Lactobacillus plantarum</i> was given with the second level of aflatoxins, and in the 6th group (BDLP), <i>Lactobacillus plantarum</i> alone was fed to the chicks. This experimental study was continued for 42 days. Birds were slaughtered after 42 days, and different parameters were assessed. Parameters studied were gain in body weight, organ weight along with some histopathological, hematological, biochemical parameters and residues of aflatoxins in liver and kidney. <i>Lactobacillus plantarum</i> improved the body weight gain and restored the relative organ weight. Hepatic and renal biomarkers returned to normal concentrations, serum proteins were restored in combination group AF1LP, and partial amelioration was observed in the AF2LP group. Red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin centration and packed cell volume became normalized in the AF1LP group, while partial amelioration was observed in the AF2LP group. LP also reduced the concentration of aflatoxin residues in liver kidney and improved the TAC concentrations. The results of this study elucidated the mitigative potential of <i>Lactobacillus plantarum</i> against serum biochemical, histopathological, hematological and toxicopathological changes induced by aflatoxins in the chicks.

Roles of MEF2A and MyoG in the transcriptional regulation of bovine LATS2 gene

As an important downstream effector gene in the hippo signaling pathway, large tumor suppressor gene 2 (LATS2) is involved in cell proliferation and differentiation, organ size and tissue regeneration, and plays an important role in regulating the growth and development of animal muscles. The purpose of this study is to explore the temporal expression of bovine LATS2 gene, and determine the key transcription factors for regulating bovine LATS2 gene. The result showed that bovine LATS2 gene was highly expressed in liver and longissimus dorsi, and was up-regulated in infancy muscle. In addition, it was highly expressed on the 2th day during the differentiation stage of myoblast. The upstream 1.7 Kb sequence of the 5 'translation region of bovine LATS2 gene was cloned, and 7 different deletion fragments were amplified by the upstream primers. These fragments were constructed into double luciferase reporter vectors and transfected into myoblasts and myotubes cells, respectively to detect the core promoter regions. In addition, the key transcription factors of the core promoter sequence of the bovine LATS2 gene were analyzed and predicted by online software. Combining with site-directed mutations, siRNA interference and chromatin immunoprecipitation technology, it was identified that MEF2A and MyoG combined in core promoter region (-248/-56) to regulate the transcription activity of bovine LATS2 gene. The results have laid a theoretical foundation for exploring the molecular regulation mechanism of LATS2 gene in the process of muscle growth.

Structural and compositional segregation of the gut microbiota in HCV and liver cirrhotic patients: A clinical pilot study

Gut microbial dysbiosis during the development of Hepatitis C virus and liver-related diseases is not well studied. Nowadays, HCV and liver cirrhosis are the major concerns that cause gut bacterial alteration, which leads to dysbiosis. For this purpose, the present study was aimed at correlating the gut bacterial community of the control group in comparison to HCV and liver cirrhotic patients. A total of 23 stool samples were collected, including control (9), liver cirrhotic (8), and HCV (6). The collected samples were subjected to 16S rRNA Illumina gene sequencing. In comparison with control, a significant gut bacterial alteration was observed in the progression of HCV and liver cirrhosis. Overall, Firmicutes were significantly abundant in the whole study. No significant difference was observed in the alpha diversity of the control and patient studies. Additionally, the beta diversity based on non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) has a significant difference (p = 0.005) (ANOSIM R² = 0.14) in all groups. The discriminative results based on the LEfSe tool revealed that the HCV-infected patients had higher Enterobacteriaceae and Enterobacterial, as well as Lactobacillus and Bacilli in comparison than the liver-cirrhotic patients. These taxa were significantly different from the control group (p < 0.05). Regarding prospects, a detailed analysis of the function through metagenomics and transcriptomics is needed.

Research progress of m6A regulation during animal growth and development

Environmental factors, genetic factors, and epigenetics are involved in animal growth and development. Among them, methylation is one of the abundant modifications of epigenetics. N6-methyladenosine(m⁶A) is extensive in cellular RNA, of which mRNA is the most common internal modification. m⁶A modification regulates life activities dynamically and reversibly, including expressed genes, RNA metabolism, and protein translation. The m⁶A modifications are closely related to human diseases involving heart failure, tumors, and cancer. It is relatively in-depth in the medical field. However, there are few studies on its biochemical function in animals. We summarized the latest paper related to the chemical structure and role of the writers, the erasers, and the readers to study exerting dynamic regulation of m⁶A modification of animal growth and development. Furthermore, the key roles of m⁶A modification were reported in the process of RNA metabolism. Finally, the dynamic regulation of m⁶A modification in animal growth and development was reviewed, including brain development, fertility, fat deposition, and muscle production. It reveals the key roles of m⁶A modification and the regulation of gene expression, aiming to provide new ideas for m⁶A methylation in animal growth and development.

Krüppel-like factors family regulation of adipogenic markers genes in bovine cattle adipogenesis

Intramuscular fat (IMF) content is a crucial determinant of meat quality traits in livestock. A network of transcription factors act in concert to regulate adipocyte formation and differentiation, which in turn influences intramuscular fat. Several genes and associated transcription factors have been reported to influence lipogenesis and adipogenesis during fetal and subsequent growth stage. Specifically in cattle, Krüppel-like factors (KLFs), which represents a family of transcription factors, have been reported to be involved in adipogenic differentiation and development. KLFs are a relatively large group of zinc-finger transcription factors that have a variety of functions in addition to adipogenesis. In mammals, the participation of KLFs in cell development and differentiation is well known. Specifically in the context of adipogenesis, KLFs function either as positive (KLF4, KLF5, KLF6, KLF8, KLF9, KLF10, KLF11, KLF12, KLF13, KLF14 and KLF15) or negative organizers (KLF2, KLF3 and KLF7), by a variety of different mechanisms such as crosstalk with C/EBP and PPARγ. In this review, we aim to summarize the potential functions of KLFs in regulating adipogenesis and associated pathways in cattle. Furthermore, the function of known bovine adipogenic marker genes, and associated transcription factors that regulate the expression of these marker genes is also summarized. Overall, this review will provide an overview of marker genes known to influence bovine adipogenesis and regulation of expression of these genes, to provide insights into leveraging these genes and transcription factors to enhance breeding programs, especially in the context of IMF deposition and meat quality.

Accelerating Effect of Cucurbita pepo L. Fruit Extract on Excisional Wound Healing in Depressed Rats Is Mediated through Its Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects

Background: Chronic stress can hinder wound healing as it suppresses both the cellular and innate immune responses. Objectives: The study aims to assess the effectiveness of the administration of topical and oral Cucurbita pepo L. (CP) ethanolic extract in prompting excisional wound healing in rats exposed to chronic stress, and to explain how it works. Materials and methods: Fifty albino rats assigned to five groups (n = 10) were utilized in this study. The chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) model was used for 4 weeks to induce depressive-like behavior in rats, and a forced swim test and corticosterone were assessed to confirm its occurrence. During the experiment, an excisional wound was induced in the rats and followed. Oxidant/antioxidants status and pro-inflammatory cytokines levels were measured in the serum and wound area. Gene expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines was also assessed using RT-PCR. Wound closure histopathological changes and immunohistochemical expression of CD68, CD3, and CD4 at the wound area was assessed. Results: The administration of CP, both orally and topically, significantly reduced (p < 0.001) the depressive-like behavior and corticosterone and pro-inflammatory cytokines levels, while it significantly up-regulated the antioxidant activity compared to the untreated and topically CP-treated groups. Both topically CP-treated and combined CP-treated groups showed complete re-epithelialization, reduced inflammatory cells infiltration, collagen fibers deposition, and significantly increased CD3, CD4 positive T cells count, with a superior effect in the combined CP-treated groups. Conclusion: Cucurbita pepo L., administrated both topically and orally, can enhance the wound healing process in rats with depressive-like behavior mostly through the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidepressant activities observed in this study.

An Ethanolic Extract of Cucurbita pepo L. Seeds Modifies Neuroendocrine Disruption in Chronic Stressed Rats and Adrenal Expression of Inflammatory Markers and HSP70

Background: Pumpkins (Cucurbita pepo L.) were described to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-fatigue, and antidepressant-like effect. The adrenal gland is an important stress-responsive organ that maintains homeostasis during stress.

Objectives: This study aimed to assess the efficacy of the administration of Cucurbita pepo L. (CP) extract in relieving behavioral, biochemical, and structural changes in the adrenal gland induced by exposure to chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) and to explore the mechanism behind this impact.

Materials and Methods: Forty male albino rats were divided into 4 groups (n = 10): control, CUMS, fluoxetine-treated, and CP-treated groups. Behavioral changes, corticosterone level, pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6, and oxidant/antioxidant profile were assessed in the serum at the end of the experiment. Adrenal glands were processed for histopathological and immunohistochemical assessment. Gene expression of caspase-3 and Ki67 and heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) were assessed in adrenal glands using RT-PCR.

Results: The CP extract significantly reduced the corticosterone level (p < 0.001), immobility time (p < 0.001), and inflammatory and oxidative changes associated with CUMS-induced depression compared to the untreated group. The CP extract alleviated CUMS-induced adrenal histopathological changes and significantly reduced apoptosis (p < 0.001) and significantly upregulated antioxidant levels in the serum.

Conclusion:Cucurbita pepo L. effectively ameliorated the chronic stress-induced behavioral, biochemical, and adrenal structural changes mostly through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Brain-derived Neurotropic factor (BDNF) mediates the protective effect of Cucurbita pepo L. on salivary glands of rats exposed to chronic stress evident by structural, biochemical and molecular study

BACKGROUND

Acute and chronic stresses affect the salivary glands, representing the source of plasma BDNF during stressful conditions. Pumpkin is a medicinal plant with an evident antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and potential antidepressant effects.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the structural and biochemical effects induced by exposure to chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) on salivary glands of albino rats, and to evaluate the role of pumpkin extract (Pump) in ameliorating this effect.

METHODOLOGY

Four groups (n=10 each) of male albino rats were included in this study: the control, CUMS, Fluoxetine-treated and Pump-treated. The corticosterone, the pro-inflammatory cytokines, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), and the oxidant/antioxidant profile were all assessed in the serum. The level of BDNF mRNA was measured in the salivary glands using qRT-PCR. Histopathological changes of the salivary glands were also assessed.

RESULTS

The depressive-like status was confirmed behaviorally and biochemically. Exposure to CUMS significantly up-regulated (p<0.001) the level of serum corticosterone. CUMS induced degenerative changes in the secretory and ductal elements of the salivary glands evident by increased apoptosis. Both Fluoxetine and Pumpkin significantly up-regulated (p<0.001) BDNF expression in the salivary glands and ameliorated the CUMS-induced histopathological and biochemical alterations in the salivary glands. Pumpkin significantly (p<0.001) increased the serum levels of antioxidant enzymes SOD, GPX and CAT, and reduced the serum levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-6.

CONCLUSION

Pumpkin ameliorates the depressive-like status induced in rats following exposure to chronic stress through exerting a promising anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-depressant-like effects. The pumpkin, subsequently, improved stress-induced structural changes in the salivary glands that might be due to up-regulation of BDNF expression in the glands.

Musk (Moschus moschiferus) Attenuates Changes in Main Olfactory Bulb of Depressed Mice: Behavioral, Biochemical, and Histopathological Evidence

BACKGROUND

Musk (Moschus moschiferus) has been described to have a significant impact on the central nervous system, as well as anticonvulsion and antidepressant effects. This study was designed to evaluate the efficacy of musk in alleviating alterations induced in olfactory bulb of depressed mice exposed to chronic stress and identify the mechanism behind it.

METHODS

Fifty male albino mice were divided into five groups (n = 10 each): control, musk, chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS), fluoxetine-treated, and musk-treated groups were included in this study. Behavioral changes and serum levels of corticosterone and proinflammatory cytokines included tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin 6, and oxidant/antioxidant profile were assessed at the end of the experiment. Main olfactory bulb (MOB) has been processed for histopathological examination. Gene expression of caspase-3, glial fibrillary acidic protein, and Ki67 were assessed in the MOB using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

The study showed that musk inhalation significantly reduced (p < 0.001) corticosterone level, immobility time, inflammatory cytokines, and oxidative stress markers in CUMS-exposed mice compared to the untreated CUMS group. Musk lessened CUMS-associated neuronal alterations in the MOB and significantly reduced apoptosis and enhanced neural cell proliferation (p < 0.001) comparable to fluoxetine. Musk significantly enhanced the level of antioxidants in the serum and significantly reduced inflammatory cytokines. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity of musk and its constituents seemed to be behind its neuroprotective effect observed in this study.

CONCLUSION

Musk effectively ameliorated the chronic stress-induced behavioral, biochemical, and neuronal structural changes in MOB mostly through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect.

Minor to Moderate Side Effects of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine Among Saudi Residents: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study

Background

The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine has recently received emergency approval from the US FDA. The mRNA technology was used to manufacture the Pfizer vaccine; however, as a pioneering technology that has never been used in the manufacture of vaccines, many people have concerns about the vaccine’s side effects. Thus, the current study aimed to track the short-term side effects of the vaccine.

Methods

The information in this study was gathered by a Google Form-questionnaire (online survey). The results included the responses of 455 individuals, all of whom are Saudi Arabia inhabitants. Adverse effects of the vaccine were reported after the first and the second doses.

Results

The most common symptoms were injection site pain, headaches, flu-like symptoms, fever, and tiredness. Less common side effects were a fast heartbeat, whole body aches, difficulty breathing, joint pain, chills, and drowsiness. Rare side effects include Bell’s palsy and lymph nodes swelling and tenderness. Flu-like symptoms were more common among those under 60 years of age, while injection site pain was more frequent among recipients who were 60 years and older. The study revealed a significant increase in the number of females who suffered from the vaccine side effects compared to males. Difficulty of breathing was more reported among recipients who had been previously infected with the coronavirus compared to those who had not been previously infected.

Conclusion

Most of the side effects reported in this study were consistent with Pfizer’s fact sheet for recipients and caregivers. Further studies are required to determine the long-term side effects.