Potential Antitumor Activity of Combined Lycopene and Sorafenib against Solid Ehrlich Carcinoma via Targeting Autophagy and Apoptosis and Suppressing Proliferation

An FDA-approved kinase inhibitor called sorafenib (SOR) is used to treat primary kidney and liver cancer as well as to stop the spread of advanced breast cancer. Side effects from SOR, such as palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome, can negatively impact an individual's quality of life. There are a lot of data supporting the importance of lycopene (LYC) in preventing cancer. The antitumor properties of the combination of sorafenib and lycopene were examined in this study. A viability test against MDA-MB-231 was used to assess the anticancer efficacy of sorafenib, lycopene, and their combination in vitro. Moreover, a cell cycle analysis and Annexin-V/PI double staining were performed by using flow cytometry. In addition, the protein level of JNK-1, ERK-1, Beclin-1, P38, and P53 of the MDA-MB-231 cell line was estimated using ELISA kits. In addition, mice with SEC were divided into four equal groups at random (n = 10) to investigate the possible processes underlying the in vivo antitumor effect. Group IV (SEC-SOR-LYC) received SOR (30 mg/kg/day, p.o.) and LYC (20 mg/kg/day, p.o.); Group I received the SEC control; Group II received SEC-SOR (30 mg/kg/day, p.o.); and Group III received SEC-LYC (20 mg/kg/day, p.o.). The findings demonstrated that the combination of sorafenib and lycopene was superior to sorafenib and lycopene alone in causing early cell cycle arrest, suppressing the viability of cancer cells, and increasing cell apoptosis and autophagy. Likewise, the combination of sorafenib and lycopene demonstrated inhibition of the levels of Bcl-2, Ki-67, VEGF, IL-1β, and TNF-α protein. Otherwise, the quantities of the proteins BAX, P53, and caspase 3 were amplified. Furthermore, the combined treatment led to a substantial increase in TNF-α, caspase 3, and VEGF gene expression compared to the equivalent dosages of monotherapy. The combination of sorafenib and lycopene enhanced apoptosis and reduced inflammation, as seen by the tumor's decreased weight and volume, hence demonstrating its potential anticancer effect.

Immune cell early activation, apoptotic kinetic, and T-cell functional impairment in domestic pigs after ASFV CADC_HN09 strain infection

African swine fever (ASF) caused by the African swine fever virus (ASFV) is a fatal and highly contagious disease of domestic pigs characterized by rapid disease progression and death within 2 weeks. How the immune cells respond to acute ASFV infection and contribute to the immunopathogenesis of ASFV has not been completely understood. In this study, we examined the activation, apoptosis, and functional changes of distinct immune cells in domestic pigs following acute infection with the ASFV CADC_HN09 strain using multicolor flow cytometry. We found that ASFV infection induced broad apoptosis of DCs, monocytes, neutrophils, and lymphocytes in the peripheral blood of pigs over time. The expression of MHC class II molecule (SLA-DR/DQ) on monocytes and conventional DCs as well as CD21 expression on B cells were downregulated after ASFV infection, implying a potential impairment of antigen presentation and humoral response. Further examination of CD69 and ex vivo expression of IFN-γ on immune cells showed that T cells were transiently activated and expressed IFN-γ as early as 5 days post-infection. However, the capability of T cells to produce cytokines was significantly impaired in the infected pigs when stimulated with mitogen. These results suggest that the adaptive cellular immunity to ASFV might be initiated but later overridden by ASFV-induced immunosuppression. Our study clarified the cell types that were affected by ASFV infection and contributed to lymphopenia, improving our understanding of the immunopathogenesis of ASFV.

PPARβ/δ activation protects against hepatic ischaemia-reperfusion injury

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Hepatic ischaemia/reperfusion injury (HIRI) is a pathophysiological process that occurs during the liver resection and transplantation. Reportedly, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor β/δ (PPARβ/δ) can ameliorate kidney and myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion injury. However, the effect of PPARβ/δ in HIRI remains unclear.

METHODS

Mouse hepatic ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R) models were constructed for in vivo study. Primary hepatocytes and Kupffer cells (KCs) isolated from mice and cell anoxia/reoxygenation (A/R) injury model were constructed for in vitro study. Liver injury and inflammation were investigated. Small molecular compounds (GW0742 and GSK0660) and adenoviruses were used to interfere with PPARβ/δ.

RESULTS

We found that PPARβ/δ expression was increased in the I/R and A/R models. Overexpression of PPARβ/δ in hepatocytes alleviated A/R-induced cell apoptosis, while knockdown of PPARβ/δ in hepatocytes aggravated A/R injury. Activation of PPARβ/δ by GW0742 protected against I/R-induced liver damage, inflammation and cell death, whereas inhibition of PPARβ/δ by GSK0660 had the opposite effects. Consistent results were obtained in mouse I/R models through the tail vein injection of adenovirus-mediated PPARβ/δ overexpression or knockdown vectors. Furthermore, knockdown and overexpression of PPARβ/δ in KCs aggravated and ameliorated A/R-induced hepatocyte injury, respectively. Gene ontology and gene set enrichment analysis showed that PPARβ/δ deletion was significantly enriched in the NF-κB pathway. PPARβ/δ inhibited the expression of p-IKBα and p-P65 and decreased NF-κB activity.

CONCLUSIONS

PPARβ/δ exerts anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects on HIRI by inhibiting the NF-κB pathway, and hepatocytes and KCs may play a synergistic role in this phenomenon. Thus, PPARβ/δ is a potential therapeutic target for HIRI.

Xiaojianzhong decoction attenuates aspirin-induced gastric mucosal injury via the PI3K/AKT/mTOR/ULK1 and AMPK/ULK1 pathways

CONTEXT

Xiaojianzhong decoction (XJZD), classically prescribed in Chinese medicine, has protective and healing effects on gastric mucosal injury. However, the exact mechanism behind this effect remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of XJZD on gastric mucosal injury and explore its underlying mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

C57BL/6 mice were randomized into six groups (n = 10): the control group receiving sterile water, the model (aspirin 300 mg/kg), the XJZD high-dose (12 g/kg), XJZD medium-dose (6 g/kg), XJZD low-dose (3 g/kg) and omeprazole (20 mg/kg) groups, by gavage daily for 14 days. The area of gastric mucosal injury, mucosal injury index and degree of histopathological damage were analysed. Gastric mucosal epithelial cell apoptosis was detected. Epithelial cell autophagy was observed. The expression levels of tight junction proteins and proteins related to apoptosis, autophagy and the pentose phosphate pathway were analysed.

RESULTS

The results showed that after treatment with XJZD (12, 6 and 3 g/kg), the mucosal injury area was reduced (83.4%, 22.6% and 11.3%), the expression level of ZO-1 and occludin was up-regulated, the apoptosis rate of epithelial cells was reduced (40.8%, 25.4% and 8.7%), the expression of autophagy-related proteins LC3 and Beclin1 was decreased and the expression of p62 was increased, the PI3K/AKT/mTOR/ULK1(ser757) signalling pathway was activated, and the AMPK/ULK1(ser317) signalling pathway was inhibited. In addition, XJZD can antagonize the imbalance of redox homeostasis caused by aspirin and protect the gastric mucosa.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

XJZD protects against aspirin-induced gastric mucosal injury, implying it to be a potential therapeutic agent.

Supplementation of Thymoquinone Nanoparticles to Semen Extender Boosts Cryotolerance and Fertilizing Ability of Buffalo Bull Spermatozoa

Thymoquinone nanoparticles (TQNPs) are broadly utilized in numerous pharmaceutical applications. In the present study, we tested the effects of TQNP supplementation on sperm quality and kinematics, acrosome exocytosis, oxidative biomarkers, apoptosis-like and morphological changes of frozen-thawed buffalo sperm, as well as the fertilizing capacity. Semen was collected from buffalo bulls, diluted (1:10; semen/extender), and divided into five aliquots comprising various concentrations of TQNP 0 (CON), 12.5 (TQNP12.5), 25 (TQNP25), 37.5 (TQNP37.5), and 50 (TQNP50) µg/mL, and then cryopreserved and stored in liquid nitrogen (-196 °C). The results revealed that TQNPs (25 to 50 µg/mL) provided the most optimal results in terms of membrane integrity (p < 0.001) and progressive motility (p < 0.01). In contrast, TQNP50 resulted in a greater post-thawed sperm viability (p = 0.02) compared with other groups. The addition of TQNPs to the extender had no discernible effects on sperm morphology measures. Sperm kinematic motion was significantly improved in the TQNP50 group compared to the control group (p < 0.01). TQNPs effectively reduced the content of H2O2 and MDA levels and improved the total antioxidant capacity of post-thawed extended semen (p < 0.01). The addition of TQNP significantly increased the number of intact acrosomes (p < 0.0001) and decreased the number of exocytosed acrosomes (p < 0.0001). A significant reduction in apoptosis-like changes was observed in TQNP groups. The non-return rates of buffalo cows inseminated with TQNP50-treated spermatozoa were higher than those in the control group (p < 0.05; 88% vs. 72%). These findings suggested that the freezing extender supplemented with TQNPs could effectively enhance the cryotolerance and fertility of buffalo sperm.

Hybrids of 1,4-Naphthoquinone with Thymidine Derivatives: Synthesis, Anticancer Activity, and Molecular Docking Study

One of the most essential health problems is cancer, the first or second cause of death worldwide. Head and neck cancers are hard to detect due to non-specific symptoms. The treatment often relies on a combination of radio and chemotherapy. For this reason, the research of new anticancer compounds is fundamental. The natural and synthetic compounds with 1,4-naphthoquinone scaffold is characterized by high anticancer activity. The study aimed to evaluate the synthesis and anticancer activity of hybrids 1,4-naphthoquinone with thymidine derivatives. The series of compounds allows us to check the influence of the substituent in the C3' position of the thymidine moiety on the cytotoxicity against squamous cancer cell lines (SCC-9 and SCC-25) and submandibular gland cancer (A-253). An annexin V/propidium iodide (PI) co-staining assay shows that derivatives cause the apoptotic in SCC-25 and A-253 cell lines. The molecular docking study examined the interaction between the active site of the BCL-2 protein and the hybrids.

The anticancer, anti-oxidant, and antibacterial activities of chitosan-lecithin-coated parthenolide/tyrosol hybrid nanoparticles

Tyrosol (TYR) and parthenolide (PLT) have been used as synthetic antioxidant and natural anticancer compounds. In the current study, we aimed to synthesize an encapsulated complex of both PLT and TYR in a hybrid coating layer consisting of lecithin and chitosan molecules, a proper biocompatible drug delivery system to evaluate its antibacterial and anticancer potentials on human liver HepG2 and pancreatic Panc cancer cell lines. The chitosan-lecithin-coated PLT/TYR nanoparticles (clPT-NPs) were synthesized applying an auto-self-assembling method. The clPT-NPs were characterized utilizing DLS, FTIR, zeta potential, and TEM analysis. The clPT-NPs' antioxidant activity was measured by running ABTS and DPPH antioxidant assays. Moreover, the antibacterial potential of clPT-NPs was evaluated by applying disk diffusion, MIC, and MBC assays. Finally, the nanoparticles' cytotoxicity and apoptotic activity were studied by conducting MTT, Flow cytometry, AO/PI cell staining, and real-time PCR techniques. The clPT-NPs (38 nm) exhibited significant antioxidant activity by inhibiting ABTS and DPPH radicals at 187 and 290 μg/mL IC50 concentrations, respectively. Also, the nanoparticles induced a notable antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus at 0.0625 mg/mL MIC and 0.125 mg/mL MBC concentrations. The clPT-NPs selectively decreased the cancer cells' survival and increased the apoptotic dead cells by up-regulating apoptotic gene expression (BAX and Cas-8) and down-regulating BCL-2 anti-apoptotic gene expression. The PLT toxicity has been merged with improved TYR antioxidant activity, which has been functionalized in a safe, biocompatible hybrid nano-delivery system.

The Antiproliferative Activity of Adiantum pedatum Extract and/or Piceatannol in Phenylhydrazine-Induced Colon Cancer in Male Albino Rats: The miR-145 Expression of the PI-3K/Akt/p53 and Oct4/Sox2/Nanog Pathways

Colon cancer is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide, and its incidence is increasing. Despite advances in medical science, the treatment of colon cancer still poses a significant challenge. This study aimed to investigate the potential protective effects of Adiantum pedatum (AP) extract and/or piceatannol on colon cancer induced via phenylhydrazine (PHZ) in terms of the antioxidant and apoptotic pathways and histopathologic changes in the colons of male albino rats. The rats were randomly divided into eight groups: control, AP extract, piceatannol (P), PHZ, PHZ and AP treatments, PHZ and P treatments, PHZ and both AP and P, and PHZ and prophylaxis with both AP and P. The results demonstrated that PHZ induced oxidative damage, apoptosis, and histopathological changes compared to the control group. However, the administration of AP or P or AP + P as therapy or prophylaxis significantly ameliorated these changes and upregulated the colonic mir-145 and mRNA expression of P53 and PDCD-4 while downregulating the colonic mRNA expression of PI3K, AKT, c-Myc, CK-20, SOX-2, OCT-4, and NanoG compared to the PHZ group. These findings suggest that the candidate drugs may exert their anti-cancer effects through multiple mechanisms, including antioxidant and apoptotic activities.

Eco-Friendly Green Synthesis and Characterization of Silver Nanoparticles by Scutellaria multicaulis Leaf Extract and Its Biological Activities

Scutellaria multicaulis is a medicinal plant indigenous to Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. It has been widely used as a prominent herb in traditional medicine for thousands of years. This plant is reported to contain baicalein, wogonin, and chrysin flavonoids, which are a significant group of chemical ingredients which can cure different diseases, such as breast cancer. S. multicaulis leaf extract was used for the bioreduction of silver nanoparticles (SmL-Ag-NPs), and their phytochemical contents and antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-proliferative, and apoptotic activity were evaluated. Optimal physicochemical properties of SmL-Ag-NPs were obtained by mixing 5% of leaf extract and 2 mM of aqueous AgNO₃ solution and confirmed by characterization studies including UV-visible spectrophotometry, Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FE-SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX), Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), zeta potential, Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS), X-ray crystallography (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy. SmL-Ag-NPs exhibited a higher content of total phenol and total flavonoid and potential antioxidant activity. SmL-Ag-NPs also demonstrated dose-dependent cytotoxicity against MDA-MB231 cell multiplication with an IC₅₀ value of 37.62 μg/mL through inducing cell apoptosis. Results show that SmL-Ag-NPs is effective at inhibiting the proliferation of MDA-MB231 cells compared to tamoxifen. This demonstrates that SmL-Ag-NPs could be a bio-friendly and safe strategy to develop new cancer therapies with a reduction in the adverse effects of chemotherapy in the near future.

Heat Shock Proteins in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer-Functional Mechanism

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for 80-85% of all lung cancers, which has the highest cancer-related mortality worldwide. Regardless of the therapeutic effects of chemotherapy or targeted therapy, drug resistance will occur after 1 year. Heat shock proteins (HSPs) are a class of molecular chaperones participated in protein stability and multiple intracellular signaling pathways. It has been widely reported that HSPs family is over expressed in non-small cell lung cancer, and these molecules are also associated with protein stability and multiple intracellular signaling pathways. The effect of chemotherapy drugs or targeted drugs on cancer cells is usually to induce apoptosis. It is necessary to explore the interaction between heat shock protein family and apoptosis pathway in NSCLC. Here we provide a brief review of how HSPs affect the apoptotic pathway in NSCLC.

Making the head: Caspases in life and death

The term apoptosis, as a way of programmed cell death, was coined a half century ago and since its discovery the process has been extensively investigated. The anatomy and physiology of the head are complex and thus apoptosis has mostly been followed in separate structures, tissues or cell types. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of recent knowledge concerning apoptosis-related molecules involved in the development of structures of head with a particular focus on caspases, cysteine proteases having a key position in apoptotic pathways. Since many classical apoptosis-related molecules, including caspases, are emerging in several non-apoptotic processes, these were also considered. The largest organ of the head region is the brain and its development has been extensively investigated, including the roles of apoptosis and related molecules. Neurogenesis research also includes sensory organs such as the eye and ear, efferent nervous system and associated muscles and glands. Caspases have been also associated with normal function of the skin and hair follicles. Regarding mineralised tissues within craniofacial morphogenesis, apoptosis in bones has been of interest along with palate fusion and tooth development. Finally, the role of apoptosis and caspases in angiogenesis, necessary for any tissue/organ development and maintenance/homeostasis, are discussed. Additionally, this review points to abnormalities of development resulting from improper expression/activation of apoptosis-related molecules.

Cucurbitacins as Potent Chemo-Preventive Agents: Mechanistic Insight and Recent Trends

Cucurbitacins constitute a group of cucumber-derived dietary lipids, highly oxidized tetracyclic triterpenoids, with potential medical uses. These compounds are known to interact with a variety of recognized cellular targets to impede the growth of cancer cells. Accumulating evidence has suggested that inhibition of tumor cell growth via induction of apoptosis, cell-cycle arrest, anti-metastasis and anti-angiogenesis are major promising chemo-preventive actions of cucurbitacins. Cucurbitacins may be a potential choice for investigations of synergism with other drugs to reverse cancer cells' treatment resistance. The detailed molecular mechanisms underlying these effects include interactions between cucurbitacins and numerous cellular targets (Bcl-2/Bax, caspases, STAT3, cyclins, NF-κB, COX-2, MMP-9, VEGF/R, etc.) as well as control of a variety of intracellular signal transduction pathways. The current study is focused on the efforts undertaken to find possible molecular targets for cucurbitacins in suppressing diverse malignant processes. The review is distinctive since it presents all potential molecular targets of cucurbitacins in cancer on one common podium.

[Effects of matrine combined with LY294002 on proliferation, apoptosis and cell cycle of human myeloid leukemia K562 cells]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of matrine combined with LY294002 on proliferation, apoptosis and cell cycle of human myeloid leukemia K562 cells and explore the underlying mechanism.

METHODS

The effects of different concentrations of matrine alone and in combination with LY294002 on the proliferation of K562 cells were examined with CCK-8 assay. The changes in morphology of K562 cells were observed following treatment for 48 h with 0.4 g/L matrine and 10 μmol/L Y294002, either alone or in combination, and cell apoptosis was detected using flow cytometry with annexin V-FITC/PI double labeling; the changes in cell cycle was detected with PI labeling. Western blotting was performed to examine the effect of matrine combined with LY294002 on expressions of p-mTOR, p-PI3K, Akt, p-Akt, cyclinD1, Bcl-2 and caspase-9 in the cells.

RESULTS

Treatment with different concentrations of matrine, both alone and in combination with LY294002, inhibited the proliferation of K562 cells in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. Compared with matrine treatment alone, the combined treatment caused more obvious morphological changes of the cells, significantly increased cell apoptosis (P < 0.01), and induced cell cycle arrest in G₀/G₁ (P < 0.01). Western blotting showed that the protein expression levels of p-mTOR, cyclinD1, p-PI3K, p-Akt and Bcl-2 in K562 cells increased while the expression level of caspase-9 decreased significantly after the combined treatment (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Matrine combined with LY294002 produces a synergistic inhibitory effect on K562 cells possibly by down-regulating the p-Akt expression in PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, reducing the expressions of p-mTOR, cyclinD1 and Bcl-2, and increasing the expression of caspase-9.

Glycosylation of FGFR4 in cholangiocarcinoma regulates receptor processing and cancer signaling

Recent advances in targeted treatment for cholangiocarcinoma have focused on fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling. There are four receptor tyrosine kinases that respond to FGFs, and posttranslational processing has been demonstrated for each FGF receptor. Here, we investigated the role of N-linked glycosylation on the processing and function of FGFR4. We altered glycosylation through enzymatic deglycosylation, small molecule inhibition of glycosyltransferases, or through site-directed mutagenesis of selected asparagine residues in FGFR4. Signaling was tested through caspase activation, migration, and subcellular localization of FGFR4. Our data demonstrate that FGFR4 has multiple glycoforms, with predominant bands relating to the full-length receptor that has a high mannose- or hybrid-type form and a complex-type glycan form. We further identified a set of faster migrating FGFR4 bands that correspond to the intracellular kinase domain, termed FGFR4 intracellular domain (R4-ICD). These glycoforms and R4-ICD were detected in human cholangiocarcinoma tumor samples, where R4-ICD was predominant. Removal of glycans in intact cells by enzymatic deglycosylation resulted in increased processing to R4-ICD. Inhibition of glycosylation using NGI-1, an oligosaccharyltransferase inhibitor, reduced both high mannose- or hybrid- and complex-type glycan forms of FGFR4, increased processing and sensitized to apoptosis. Mutation of Asn-112, Asn-258, Asn-290, or Asn-311 to glutamine modestly reduced apoptosis resistance, while mutation of Asn-322 or simultaneous mutation of the other four asparagine residues caused a loss of cytoprotection by FGFR4. None of the glycomutants altered the migration of cancer cells. Finally, mutation of Asn-112 caused a partial localization of FGFR4 to the Golgi. Overall, preventing glycosylation at individual residues reduced the cell survival function of FGFR4 and receptor glycosylation may regulate access to an extracellular protease or proteolytic susceptibility of FGFR4.

The influence of PM2.5 exposure on kidney diseases

The harm of air pollution to public health has become a research hotspot, especially atmospheric fine-particulate matter (PM_2.5). In recent years, epidemiological investigations have confirmed that PM_2.5 is closely related to chronic kidney disease and membranous nephropathy Basic research has demonstrated that PM_2.5 has an impact on the normal function of the kidneys through accumulation in the kidney, endothelial dysfunction, abnormal renin-angiotensin system, and immune complex deposition. Moreover, the mechanism of PM_2.5 damage to the kidney involves inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, DNA damage, and autophagy. In this review, we summarized the latest developments in the effects of PM_2.5 on kidney disease in human and animal studies, so as to provide new ideas for the prevention and treatment of kidney disease.

Evaluation of the Anticancer Potential of Crude, Irradiated Cerastes cerastes Snake Venom and Propolis Ethanolic Extract & Related Biological Alterations

We aimed to evaluate the anticancer potential of crude venom (CV), γ irradiated Certastes cerastes venom (IRRV), and propolis ethanolic extract (PEE). IRRV showed a higher toxicity than CV, while CV-PEE showed higher toxicity than IRRV and CV against lung [A549] and prostate [PC3] cancer cells. Toxicity to [A549] and [PC3] cells was concentration and cell type dependent. In comparison to controls, apoptotic genes showed a significant upregulation of P53 and Casp-3 and a downregulation of Bcl-2. Also, induced elevated DNA accumulation in the [S] phase post PC3 cell treatment with IRRV and CV, as well as a significant DNA accumulation at G2/M phase after IRRV treatment of A549 cells. In contrast, PC3 cells showed a negligible cellular DNA accumulation after PEE treatment. Glutathione reductase [GR] was reduced in case of PC3 and A549 cell treated with IRRV, CV, and PEE compared with its values in untreated cell control. The Malondialdehyde [MDA] values in both cells recorded a significant elevation post IRRV treatment compared to the rest of the treatment regimen and untreated cell control. Similarly, IRRV and CV-PEE mix showed obviously higher reactive oxygen species [ROS] values than PC3 and A549 cell treatments with CV and PEE.

Curcumin in a tris-based semen extender improves cryosurvival of Hariana bull spermatozoa

In this study, the cryoprotective potential of natural antioxidant curcumin in Hariana bull semen was evaluated as an additive in a tris-based extender with the assessment of motility and motion parameters of spermatozoa, membrane intactness, progesterone-receptor binding, protein carbonyl content, cervical mucus penetration, cryocapacitation-associated and apoptotic-like changes. The collected ejaculates were divided into five groups in the tris-based extender (control without curcumin-I, 10 µM-II, 25 µM-III, 50 µM-IV and 75µM-V) and were cryopreserved. Groups II and III containing 10 and 25 µM curcumin substantially (p < .05) improved the post-thaw sperm parameters like viability, motility, and velocity parameters; intact acrosome and membrane; lowered protein carbonyl content; DNA fragmentation and cryocapacitation-associated changes in comparison to control. It was interesting to note that early apoptotic-like changes in sperm cells were significantly (p < .05) decreased in Group II along with an increase in a higher population of sperm cells having high mitochondrial transmembrane potential. Higher progesterone-receptor binding, Vanguard distance and in vitro capacitation response were observed only in Group II (10µM) compared to other groups. In conclusion, curcumin in a semen extender manifests cryoprotective effects and may be incorporated at 10 µM concentration in a Hariana bull semen extender for better post-thaw sperm quality.

Long non-coding RNA LUCAT1 inhibits myocardial oxidative stress and apoptosis after myocardial infarction via targeting microRNA-181a-5p

This study hoped to explore the effects and mechanism of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) LUCAT1 regulating microRNA-181a-5p (miR-181a-5p) on oxidative stress and apoptosis of cardiomyocytes induced by H₂O₂. Totally, 72 patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) were included. H9c2 cardiomyocytes were cultured in vitro, and the H₂O₂ model of cardiomyocytes was established. The expression levels of LUCAT1 and miR-181a-5p were detected by qRT-PCR after H₂O₂ induction. The contents of reactive oxygen species (ROS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and malondialdehyde (MDA) in cells were detected. The survival rate of the cells was detected by the Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) method; the apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry. The luciferase reporter experiment and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) were used to verify the targeted relationship between LUCAT1 and miR-181a-5p. LUCAT1 was lowly expressed in the AMI patients. After H₂O₂ induction, the expression of LUCAT1 in H9c2 cells lessened significantly, while the expression of miR-181a-5p elevated significantly (P < 0.001). Transfection of p-LUCAT1 significantly reversed the decreased SOD levels, the increased MDA and ROS content, and the elevated tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) in H₂O₂-stimulated cells (P < 0.001). Upregulation of LUCAT1 contributed to the mitigation of H₂O₂ injury by promoting viable cells and repressing apoptotic cells (P < 0.01). LUCAT1 targeted miR-181a-5p and negatively regulated miR-181a-5p expression (P < 0.001). Collectively, LUCAT1 played a protective role on oxidative stress injury, inflammation, viability, and apoptosis of cardiomyocytes induced by H₂O₂ via regulating miR-181a-5p.

The Apoptotic Properties of Leaf Extracts of Simarouba glauca against Human Leukemic Cancer Cells

Background and objective:

Simarouba glauca is a plant belonging to the family of Simaroubaceae. It is a potent source of secondary metabolites. The aim of this study was to evaluate the apoptotic properties of leaf extracts of Simarouba glauca against human leukemic cancer cells.

Materials and Methods:

Cytotoxicity of Simarouba glauca was assessed in the leaf extract of petroleum ether against leukemic cells by MTT assay. To detect the apoptotic features, fluorescence microscopy analysis was done with dual acridine orange/ethidium bromide fluorescent staining and Hoechst staining. To determine the externalization of phosphatidylserine, annexin v staining was done. Mitochondrial or death receptor activation was confirmed by caspase 3 analysis by flow cytometry.

Results:

This study revealed that Simarouba glauca was able to treat leukemia. Among the four extracts, petroleum ether extract showed a higher order of in vitro anticancer activity. The petroleum ether extract strongly inhibited the proliferation of K562 cell lines with IC₅₀ values of 186 µg/ml. Dual acridine orange/ethidium bromide fluorescent staining and Hoechst staining revealed the characteristic features of apoptosis. Annexin V confirmed early and late stage apoptosis. Caspase-3 analysis revealed that cell death was due to mitochondrial or death receptor activation in mitochondrial pathway.

Conclusion:

These findings suggested that Simarouba glauca leaf extracts inhibited leukemic cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner either through mitochondrial or death receptor activation. The leaf extracts of Simarouba glauca was found to be nontoxic to lymphocytes. It can be concluded that Simarouba glauca is an important source of phytochemicals posing efficacy against leukemic cancer cells.

The Cytotoxic, Apoptotic Induction, and Cell Cycle Arrest Activities of Solanum nigrum L. Ethanolic Extract on MCF-7 Human Breast Cancer Cell

Objective:

The purpose of this research was to evaluate the cytotoxic, cell cycle arrest, and apoptotic induction activities of the fruit of S. nigrum L. ethanolic-70% extract against MCF-7 human breast cancer cell.

Methods:

S. nigrum L. ripe fruit was blended and macerated with ethanol 70% and the filtrate was evaporated. The semisolid extract was then analyzed phytochemically. Cytotoxic analysis was performed using MCF-7 cancer and Vero normal cell by MTT method and followed by apoptotic and cell cycle arrest analysis using flow cytometry.

Results:

The phytochemical analysis resulted that extract contained total phenolic and flavonoid compounds with the level of 1.545±0.080% and 0.212±0.002%, respectively. Glycitin was the highest level of isoflavone compound, namely, 375.0844 mg/100 g extract. The cytotoxic evaluation revealed that the extract exhibited a selectively toxic effect between cancer and normal cell. The extract inhibited MCF-7 proliferation with IC50 value about 40.77±4.86 μg/mL and conversely toward Vero cell at lower cytotoxic activity with an IC50 value of 298.96±27.28 μg/mL. Evaluation of MCF-7 cell cycles demonstrated that the extract arrested the cell cycle in the S phase and continued to the G2/M phase at the half of the IC50 value. The extract induced apoptotic of MCF-7 cell about 43.31% in which this activity was nearly the same with doxorubicin as a positive control (59.14%). However, solamargine was predicted as the most active anticancer compounds by a molecular docking study so that it was suggested to measure the level of this compound.

Conclusion:

It can be concluded that the fruit of S. nigrum L. ethanolic-70% extract demonstrated cytotoxic activity toward MCF-7 breast cancer cell and nontoxic on Vero normal cell. Solamargine was predicted as the most active anticancer compound. This extract had an opportunity to be developed as a potential anticancer agent to overcome breast cancer diseases.

Modulating effect of hesperetin on the molecular expression pattern of apoptotic and cell proliferative markers in 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene-induced oral carcinogenesis

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is widespread malignant neoplasm and refractory cancers in worldwide. Here, we studied the chemopreventive potential of hesperetin on 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA)-induced hamster buccal pouch carcinogenesis (HBPCs). Oral tumours were developed in the buccal pouches of male golden Syrian hamsters by topical application of 0.5% DMBA three times a week for 10 weeks. This causes sequentially hyperplasia, dysplasia and well differentiates squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) with up-regulation of molecular markers like mutant-p53, Caspase-3 and caspase-9 and cyclin-D1. Histology, immunohistochemistry (IHC), real time PCR (qRT-PCR) and western blot analysis of hesperetin treated animals shows a reversal in the above expression pattern to near normal in buccal mucosal tissue. Therefore, hesperetin exhibits the potential protective effect against DMBA-induced oral cancer through apoptotic and anti-proliferative properties. However, a long-term observation would be needed to confirm the possibility of malignant change of the resulted dysplastic lesions upon hesperetin pretreatment.

Design, synthesis, and preliminary biological evaluation of chrysin amino acid derivatives that induce apoptosis and suppress cell migration

Amino acid derivatives containing chrysin were synthesized for evaluating their anticancer effects. Among them, compound N-(7-((5-hydroxy-4-oxo-2-phenyl-4H-chromen-7-yl)oxy)heptanoyl)-L-isoleucine (6e) displayed the most potent antiproliferative activity against MGC-803 cells with IC₅₀ value of 20.0 μM. Preliminary mechanistic studies showed that compound 6e could inhibit the colony formation and migration of MGC-803 cells. Flow cytometry analysis demonstrated that compound 6e mediated cell apoptosis of MGC-803 cells and arrested cell cycle in G2/M-phase. Moreover, 6e treatment in MGC-803 cells downregulated anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 and upregulated pro-apoptotic gene Bax in a concentration-dependent manner. Our studies suggest that compound 6e may sever as an effective chemotherapeutic candidate. [Formula: see text].

Recognition of Apoptotic Cells by Viruses and Cytolytic Lymphocytes: Target Selection in the Fog of War

Viruses and cytolytic lymphocytes operate in an environment filled with dying and dead cells, and cell fragments. For viruses, irreversible fusion with doomed cells is suicide. For cytotoxic T lymphocyte and natural killer cells, time and limited lytic resources spent on apoptotic targets is wasteful and may result in death of the host. We make the case that the target membrane cytoskeleton is the best source of information regarding the suitability of potential targets for engagement for both viruses and lytic effector cells, and we present experimental evidence for detection of apoptotic cells by HIV, without loss of infectivity.

Brassica rapa Polysaccharides Ameliorate CCl4 -Induced Acute Liver Injury in Mice through Inhibiting Inflammatory Apoptotic Response and Oxidative Stress

Brassica rapa L., also called NIUMA, is used empirically in Tibetan medicine for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiradiation activities. This study explored the hepatoprotective effects of B. rapa polysaccharides (BRPs) on acute liver injury induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄ ) in mice and the underlying mechanisms. Mice were treated with CCl₄ after the oral administration of BRPs (55, 110 and 220 mg/kg) or bifendate (100 mg/kg) for 7 days. Blood and liver samples of mice were collected for analysis after 24 h. The ALP, ALT and AST levels and the biological activities of SOD, MDA and GSH-Px were measured. Histopathological changes in the liver were determined through hematoxylin and eosin staining. Moreover, TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 expression levels were detected by commercial reagent kits. Finally, Western blot analysis was used to check the relative expression levels of caspase-3, p-JAK2 and p-STAT3. The BRP pre-treatment significantly decreased the enzymatic activities of ALT, ALP and AST in the serum, markedly increased the activities of SOD and GSH-Px in the liver and reduced the MDA concentration in the liver. BRPs alleviated hepatocyte injury and markedly inhibited the expression of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6, also downregulating the CCl₄ -induced hepatic tissue expression of caspase-3. Furthermore, BRPs inhibited the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway in a dose-dependent manner in the liver. This study demonstrated that BRPs exert hepatoprotective effect against the CCl₄ -induced liver injury via modulating the apoptotic and inflammatory responses and downregulating the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. Therefore, B. rapa could be considered a hepatoprotective medicine.

Clinical, Prognostic and Therapeutic Significance of Heat Shock Proteins in Cancer

BACKGROUND

Heat Shock Proteins (HSPs) constitute a group of proteins that play a crucial role in the process of protein folding. HSPs are also known to modulate a number of key apoptotic factors. High expression of these proteins is reported in an array of cancers, such as breast, prostate, colorectal, lung, ovarian, gastric, oral and esophageal cancer. Ample amount of investigations were carried out on a variety of cancers suggesting HSPs as a promising hallmark in cancers. Their expression profile in several tumors elucidates that they help in proliferation, invasion, metastasis and death of cancerous cells. Detection of the levels of heat shock proteins and their specific antibodies in the sera of diseased individuals can play an important role in cancer diagnosis.

OBJECTIVES

This review will present and summarize latest research being carried out on heat shock proteins. It will also highlight the clinical and prognostic features of HSP27, HSP60, HSP70, HSP90 and HSP110, and will discuss future implications of HSPs in the diagnosis and prognosis of cancer. Furthermore, the role of heat shock proteins as a therapeutic target in cancer will be discussed. In addition, the review article will report various studies, where HSPs have been targeted for their therapeutic potential.

CONCLUSION

In summary, multiple experimental investigations have been successful in suggesting the role of heat shock protein as a clinical biomarker and therapeutic target in cancer. HSPs are associated with a number of cancer hallmarks such as cell proliferation, invasion and metastasis. Inhibition of HSPs has resulted in successful therapeutic outcome in cancer. It has served as a novel anti-cancer therapy for the treatment of several cancer forms. However, more experimental studies are required to elucidate the reliability and efficacy of heat shock proteins in combination with other conventional markers for cancer diagnosis and prognosis. Novel and effective interventions through HSP inhibition are expected to decrease the burden of cancer in the near future.

Exploring the Antioxidant Effects and Periodic Regulation of Cancer Cells by Polyphenols Produced by the Fermentation of Grape Skin by Lactobacillus plantarum KFY02

Lactobacillus plantarum KFY02 (LP-KFY02) was isolated from naturally fermented yoghurt in Xinjiang. We previously demonstrated that LP-KFY02 has good biological activity in vitro. In this study, LP-KFY02 was used to ferment grape skin, and the LP-KFY02 fermented grape skin extract solution (KFSE) was examined for its antioxidant ability in a human embryonic kidney (293T) cell oxidative damage model caused by H2O2 and its inhibitory effect on human hepatoma (HepG2) cells. The results showed that KFSE reduced the degree of oxidative damage in 293T cells, increased the relevant expression levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH), and GSH-peroxidase (GSH-Px), and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), and decreased the expression levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), malondialdehyde (MDA), and nitric oxide (NO). The expression of genes and proteins of SOD, CAT, GSH, and GSH-Px was up-regulated. In addition, KFSE-induced growth inhibition appeared to be through induction of cell-cycle arrest. This induction was accompanied by a reduction in the expression of cell-cycle genes, such as cyclin-D1 and CDK4. In addition, KFSE induced gene expression of p21, the apoptosis gene wild-type p53 and the caspase family. At the protein expression level, Bax and Caspase-8 were up-regulated, and the inflammatory marker Nuclear Factor Kappa-B (NF-κB) was down-regulated. The fermentation solution polyphenols were separated and identified as epicatechin gallate, coumarin, new chlorogenic acid, rutin, resveratrol, chlorogenic acid, rosmarinic acid, etc. by HPLC. Overall, these results demonstrate that KFSE significantly attenuated oxidative damage in 293T cells and inhibited tumor growth in HepG2 cancer cells, induces cell-cycle arrest and affects proteins involved in cell-cycle regulation and proliferation. This suggests that KFSE may also be explored as a neo-adjuvant to expansion of hepatoma.

Pro-apoptotic and anti-proliferative effects of Physalis angulata leaf extract on retinoblastoma cells

AIM

To investigate the effect of Physalis angulata leaf extract on apoptotic and proliferation of retinoblastoma cells. Despite several previous studies evidencing the anti-cancer potential of Physalis angulata; however, certain study that proves its benefits in retinoblastoma cancer cells has been limited.

METHODS

This study utilizes an in-vitro experimental study by applying Y79 human retinoblastoma cell line culture obtained from the American Type Culture Collection (ATCC; 10801 University Boulevard Manassas, VA 20110, USA). The cell was divided into 4 groups. Group I was the control group without the administration of Physalis angulata leaf extract. Whereas, group II, II and IV are engaged with 25, 50, and 100 µg/mL of Physalis angulata leaf extract respectively. After a 24h incubation, an examination with microtetrazolium (MTT) cell proliferation assay and Annexin V apoptosis detection was conducted. Statistical analysis was performed with the Tukey test.

RESULTS

Physalis angulata leaf extract improved apoptosis and significantly reduced the number of living cells in retinoblastoma cells, along with the increase in the given dose. Based on the Tukey test, a significant difference was found in the treatment group at 50 µg/mL (P=0.025) and 100 µg/mL (P=0.001) in the measurement of apoptosis. Proliferation measurements also indicated a significant decrease in the number of living cells in the 50µg/mL treatment group (P=0.004), and in the 100 µg/mL treatment group (P=0.000). Meanwhile, a dose of 25 µg/mL indicated insignificant difference in the two measurements. Improved apoptosis and decreased number of living cells occured at a dose of 100 µg/mL. Decreased number of living cells (in the measurement of proliferation) was due to the inhibited proliferation or improved apoptosis.

CONCLUSION

Physalis angulata leaf extract improve apoptosis in retinoblastoma cell culture, requiring further research to inhibit proliferation.

Biological activities of farnesiferol C: a review

Farnesiferol C (FC) is a sesquiterpene coumarin, with a unique chemical structure, isolated from Ferula (Apiaceae) species including Ferula assa-foetida and Ferula szowitsiana. The compound is an important natural product with different biological activities. Recently, researchers have been interested in FC and begun to investigate its biological effects. They have shown that FC possesses various biological properties including cytotoxic, apoptotic, MDR reversal, antitumor, antimutagenic, and antiviral activity. In addition, FC has shown moderate neuroprotective activity against oxygen-glucose deprivation in vitro. This review summarizes the biological activities of FC that has been published to date. A complete search performed on relevant databases consists of Pubmed, Scopus, Web of science, Google scholar, Science direct, and Magiran. Selected keywords were sesquiterpene coumarin, farnesiferol C, biological activity, cytotoxicity, pharmacology, anticancer, and anti-angiogenesis. All of the data were checked out and irrelevant articles were discarded.

Docetaxel-Loaded Self-Assembly Stearic Acid-Modified Bletilla striata Polysaccharide Micelles and Their Anticancer Effect: Preparation, Characterization, Cellular Uptake and In Vitro Evaluation

Poorly soluble drugs have low bioavailability after oral administration, thereby hindering effective drug delivery. A novel drug-delivery system of docetaxel (DTX)-based stearic acid (SA)-modified Bletilla striata polysaccharides (BSPs) copolymers was successfully developed. Particle size, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency (EE), and loading capacity (LC) were determined. The DTX release percentage in vitro was determined using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The hemolysis and in vitro anticancer activity were studied. Cellular uptake and apoptotic rate were measured using flow cytometry assay. Particle size, zeta potential, EE and LC were 125.30 ± 1.89 nm, -26.92 ± 0.18 mV, 86.6% ± 0.17%, and 14.8% ± 0.13%, respectively. The anticancer activities of DTX-SA-BSPs copolymer micelles against HepG2, HeLa, SW480, and MCF-7 (83.7% ± 1.0%, 54.5% ± 4.2%, 48.5% ± 4.2%, and 59.8% ± 1.4%, respectively) were superior to that of docetaxel injection (39.2% ± 1.1%, 44.5% ± 5.3%, 38.5% ± 5.4%, and 49.8% ± 2.9%, respectively) at 0.5 μg/mL drug concentration. The DTX release percentage of DTX-SA-BSPs copolymer micelles and docetaxel injection were 66.93% ± 1.79% and 97.06% ± 1.56% in two days, respectively. Cellular uptake of DTX-FITC-SA-BSPs copolymer micelles in cells had a time-dependent relation. Apoptotic rate of DTX-SA-BSPs copolymer micelles and docetaxel injection were 73.48% and 69.64%, respectively. The SA-BSPs copolymer showed good hemocompatibility. Therefore, SA-BSPs copolymer can be used as a carrier for delivering hydrophobic drugs.

Anti-proliferative effect on a colon adenocarcinoma cell line exerted by a membrane disrupting antimicrobial peptide KL15

The antimicrobial and anticancer activities of an antimicrobial peptide (AMP) KL15 obtained through in silico modification on the sequences of 2 previously identified bacteriocins m2163 and m2386 from Lactobacillus casei ATCC 334 by us have been studied. While significant bactericidal effect on the pathogenic bacteria Listeria, Escherichia, Bacillus, Staphylococcus, Enterococcus is exerted by KL15, the AMP can also kill 2 human adenocarcinoma cells SW480 and Caco-2 with measured IC50 as 50 μg/ml or 26.3 μM. However, the IC50 determined for KL15 on killing the normal human mammary epithelial cell H184B5F5/M10 is 150 μg/ml. The conformation of KL15 dissolved in 50% 2,2,2-trifluroroethanol or in 2 large unilamellar vesicle systems determined by circular dichroism spectroscopy appears to be helical. Further, the cell membrane permeability of treated SW480 cells by KL15 appears to be significantly enhanced as studied by both flow cytometry and confocal microscopy. As observed under a scanning electron microscope, the morphology of treated SW480 cells is also significantly changed as treating time by 80 μg/ml KL15 is increased. KL15 appears to be able to pierce the cell membrane of treated SW480 cells so that numerous porous structures are generated and observable. Therefore, KL15 is likely to kill the treated SW480 cells through the necrotic pathway similar to some recently identified AMPs by others.

Attenuation of hyperglycemia-induced apoptotic signaling and anti-angiogenic milieu in cultured cytotrophoblast cells

OBJECTIVE

Preeclampsia (preE) is a hypertensive disorder that occurs 20% in diabetic pregnancy. We have shown that hyperglycemia impairs cytotrophoblast cell (CTB) function. In this study, we assess apoptotic and anti-angiogenic signaling in excess glucose-induced CTBs.

STUDY DESIGN

Human extravillous CTBs (Sw. 71) were treated with 100, 150, 200, 300, or 400 mg/dL glucose for 48 h. Some cells were pretreated with a p38 inhibitor (SB203580) or a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) ligand (rosiglitazone) or with D-mannitol. Cell lysates were utilized to measure p38 MAPK phosphorylation, PPARγ, Bcl-2-associated-X protein (Bax), anti-apoptotic Bcl-2, caspase-9, and cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox-2) expression by western blot. Levels of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), placental growth factor (PlGF), soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1), soluble endoglin (sEng), and interleukin 6 (IL-6) were measured in culture media using ELISA kits. Statistical comparisons were performed using analysis of variance with Duncan's post hoc test.

RESULTS

p38 phosphorylation and PPARγ were upregulated (p < 0.05) in CTBs treated with ≥150 mg/dL glucose compared to basal (100 mg/dL). Expressions of Bax/Bcl-2, Cox-2, and caspase-9 were upregulated (p < 0.05) in CTBs treated with ≥150 mg/dL glucose. Secretion of sFlt-1, sEng, and IL-6 was increased while VEGF and PIGF were decreased in CTB-treated ≥150 mg/dl of glucose (*p < 0.01 for each). SB203580 or rosiglitazone pretreatment significantly attenuated hyperglycemia-induced apoptotic and anti-angiogenic signaling. D-Mannitol had no effect.

CONCLUSION

Hyperglycemia induced apoptotic and anti-angiogenic signaling in CTBs. The observed diminution of hyperglycemia-induced signaling by SB203580 or rosiglitazone pretreatment suggests the involvement of apoptotic and anti-angiogenic signaling in CTB dysfunction.

PAC1R agonist maxadilan enhances hADSC viability and neural differentiation potential

Pituitary adenylate cyclase‐activating polypeptide (PACAP) is a structurally endogenous peptide with many biological roles. However, little is known about its presence or effects in human adipose‐derived stem cells (hADSCs). In this study, the expression of PACAP type I receptor (PAC1R) was first confirmed in hADSCs. Maxadilan, a specific agonist of PAC1R, could increase hADSC proliferation as determined by Cell Counting Kit‐8 and cell cycle analysis and promote migration as shown in wound‐healing assays. Maxadilan also showed anti‐apoptotic activity in hADSCs against serum withdrawal‐induced apoptosis based on Annexin V/propidium iodide analysis and mitochondrial membrane potential assays. The anti‐apoptotic effects of maxadilan correlated with the down‐regulation of Cleaved Caspase 3 and Caspase 9 as well as up‐regulation of Bcl‐2. The chemical neural differentiation potential could be enhanced by maxadilan as indicated through quantitative PCR, Western blot and cell morphology analysis. Moreover, cytokine neural redifferentiation of hADSCs treated with maxadilan acquired stronger neuron‐like functions with higher voltage‐dependent tetrodotoxin‐sensitive sodium currents, higher outward potassium currents and partial electrical impulses as determined using whole‐cell patch clamp recordings. Maxadilan up‐regulated the Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway associated with dimer‐dependent activity of PAC1R, promoting cell viability that was inhibited by XAV939, and it also activated the protein kinase A (PKA) signalling pathway associated with ligand‐dependent activity of PAC1R, enhancing cell viability and neural differentiation potential that was inhibited by H‐89. In summary, these results demonstrated that PAC1R is present in hADSCs, and maxadilan could enhance hADSC viability and neural differentiation potential in neural differentiation medium.

Intestinal epithelial apoptosis initiates gut mucosal injury during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in the newborn piglet

Neonates and young infants exposed to extracorporeal circulation during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and cardiopulmonary bypass are at risk of developing a systemic inflammatory response syndrome with multi-organ dysfunction. We used a piglet model of ECMO to investigate the hypothesis that epithelial apoptosis is an early event that precedes villous damage during ECMO-related bowel injury. Healthy 3-week-old piglets were subjected to ECMO for up to 8 h. Epithelial apoptosis was measured in histopathological analysis, nuclear imaging, and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling. Plasma intestinal fatty acid-binding protein (I-FABP) levels were measured by enzyme immunoassay. Intestinal mast cells were isolated by fluorescence-assisted cell sorting. Cleaved caspase-8, caspase-9, phospho-p38 MAPK, and fas ligand expression were investigated by immunohistochemistry, western blots, and reverse transcriptase-quantitative PCR. Piglet ECMO was associated with increased gut epithelial apoptosis. Extensive apoptotic changes were noted on villus tips and in scattered crypt cells after 2 h of ECMO. After 8 h, the villi were denuded and apoptotic changes were evident in a majority of crypt cells. Increased circulating I-FABP levels, a marker of gut epithelial injury, showed that epithelial injury occurred during ECMO. We detected increased cleaved caspase-8, but not cleaved caspase-9, in epithelial cells indicating that the extrinsic apoptotic pathway was active. ECMO was associated with increased fas ligand expression in intestinal mast cells, which was induced through activation of the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase. We conclude that epithelial apoptosis is an early event that initiates gut mucosal injury in a piglet model of ECMO.

Antitumor immune responses mediated by dendritic cells: How signals derived from dying cancer cells drive antigen cross-presentation

Dendritic cells (DCs) are essential for the induction of adaptive immune responses against malignant cells by virtue of their capacity to effectively cross-present exogenous antigens to T lymphocytes. Dying cancer cells are indeed a rich source of antigens that may be harnessed for the development of DC-based vaccines. In particular, malignant cells succumbing to apoptosis, rather than necrosis, appear to release antigens in a manner that allows for the elicitation of adaptive immune responses. In this review, we describe the processes that mediate the cross-presentation of antigens released by apoptotic cancer cells to CD8⁺ T lymphocytes, resulting in the activation of protective tumor-specific immune responses.

Detection of apoptotic frequency in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO-K1) cells after gamma-irradiation using both neutral Comet assay andterminal desoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT) assay

OBJECTIVES

Two assay methods, namely the neutral Comet assay andterminal desoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT) assay, were carried out for comparison to investigate the capability of using the neutral Comet assay as an alternative for detection of apoptosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Chinese hamster ovary-K1 (CHO-K1) cells were exposed to gamma-rays with different doses and then the frequencies of apoptotic cells were determined at given points of time using the neutral Comet assay andTdT assay.

RESULTS

Apoptotic frequency of CHO-K1 cells after gamma-irradiation is dependent on both time after irradiation and radiation dose using either the neutral Comet assay orTdT assay. There are differences between the data obtained using the neutral Comet assay andTdT assay (p<0.01, Student's t-test).

CONCLUSIONS

The neutral Comet assay appears to be an appropriate tool for detection of radiationinduced apoptosis at the early stage of the process. Compared to the other methods such as theTdT assay, the neutral Comet assay is a rapid, simple and economical method for detection of apoptosis.