Olive oil-derived nitro-fatty acids: protection of mitochondrial function in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is characterized by excessive liver fat deposition in the absence of significant alcohol intake. Since extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) reduces fat accumulation, we analyzed the involvement of nitro-fatty acids (NO2-FA) on the beneficial effects of EVOO consumption on NAFLD. Nitro-fatty acids formation was observed during digestion in mice supplemented with EVOO and nitrite. Mice fed with a high-fat diet (HF) presented lower plasma NO2-FA levels than normal chow, and circulating concentrations recovered when the HF diet was supplemented with 10% EVOO plus nitrite. Under NO2-FA formation conditions, liver hemoxygenase-1 expression significantly increased while decreased body weight and fat liver accumulation. Mitochondrial dysfunction plays a central role in the pathogenesis of NAFLD while NO2-FA has been shown to protect from mitochondrial oxidative damage. Accordingly, an improvement of respiratory indexes was observed when mice were supplemented with both EVOO plus nitrite. Liver mitochondrial complexes II and V activities were greater in mice with EVOO supplementation and further improved in the presence of nitrite. Overall, our results strongly suggest a positive correlation between NO2-OA formation from EVOO and the observed improvement of mitochondrial function in NAFLD. The formation of NO2-FA can account for the health benefits associated with EVOO consumption.

Physiologically relevant oxygen tensions differentially regulate hepatotoxic responses in HepG2 cells

This study evaluates the impact of physiologically relevant oxygen tensions on the response of HepG2 cells to known inducers and hepatotoxic drugs. We compared transcriptional regulation and CYP1A activity after a 48 h exposure at atmospheric culture conditions (20% O2) with representative periportal (8% O2) and perivenous (3% O2) oxygen tensions. We evaluated cellular responses in 2D and 3D cultures at each oxygen tension in parallel, using monolayers and a paper-based culture platform that supports cells suspended in a collagen-rich environment. Our findings highlight that the toxicity, potency, and mechanism of action of drugs are dependent on both culture format and oxygen tension. HepG2 cells in 3D environments at physiologic oxygen tensions better matched primary human hepatocyte data than HepG2 cells cultured under standard conditions. Despite altered transcriptional regulation with decreasing oxygen tensions, we did not observe the zonation patterns of drug-metabolizing enzymes found in vivo. Our approach demonstrates that oxygen is an important regulator of liver function but it is not the sole regulator. It also highlights the utility of the 3D paper-based culture platform for continued mechanistic studies of microenvironmental influences on cellular responses.

Negative Regulation of Human Hepatic Constitutive Androstane Receptor by Cholesterol Synthesis Inhibition: Role of Sterol Regulatory Element Binding Proteins

The squalene synthase inhibitor squalestatin 1 (Squal1) is a potent and efficacious inducer of CYP2B expression in primary cultured rat hepatocytes and rat liver. To determine whether Squal1 is also an inducer of human CYP2B, the effects of Squal1 treatment were evaluated in primary cultured human hepatocytes, differentiated HepaRG cells, and humanized mouse livers. Squal1 treatment did not increase CYP2B6 mRNA levels in human hepatocytes or HepaRG cells and only slightly and inconsistently increased CYP2B6 mRNA content in humanized mouse liver. However, treatment with farnesol, which mediates Squal1's effect on rat CYP2B expression, increased CYP2B6 mRNA levels in HepaRG cells expressing the constitutive androstane receptor (CAR), but not in cells with knocked-down CAR. To determine the impact of cholesterol biosynthesis inhibition on CAR activation, the effects of pravastatin (Prava) were determined on CITCO-mediated gene expression in primary cultured human hepatocytes. Prava treatment abolished CITCO-inducible CYP2B6 expression, but had less effect on rifampicin-mediated CYP3A4 induction, and CITCO treatment did not affect Prava-inducible HMG-CoA reductase (HMGCR) expression. Treatment with inhibitors of different steps of cholesterol biosynthesis attenuated CITCO-mediated CYP2B6 induction in HepaRG cells, and Prava treatment increased HMGCR expression and inhibited CYP2B6 induction with comparable potency. Transfection of HepG2 cells with transcriptionally active sterol regulatory element binding proteins (SREBPs) reduced CAR-mediated transactivation, and inducible expression of transcriptionally active SREBP2 attenuated CITCO-inducible CYP2B6 expression in HepaRG cells. These findings suggest that Squal1 does not induce CYP2B6 in human hepatocytes because Squal1's inhibitory effect on cholesterol biosynthesis interferes with CAR activation. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: The cholesterol biosynthesis inhibitor squalestatin 1 induces rat hepatic CYP2B expression indirectly by causing accumulation of an endogenous isoprenoid that activates the constitutive androstane receptor (CAR). This study demonstrates that squalestatin 1 does not similarly induce CYP2B6 expression in human hepatocytes. Rather, inhibition of cholesterol biosynthesis interferes with CAR activity, likely by activating sterol regulatory element binding proteins. These findings increase our understanding of the endogenous processes that modulate human drug-metabolizing gene expression.

Tryptophan lessens reserpine induced anxiety, depression and memory impairment by modulating oxidative stress and serotonergic activity

Reserpine (Res)-induced depletion of monoamines and altered neurotransmission and produces oxidative stress. Tryptophan (TRP) regulated the serotonin neurotransmission. Because systemically injected Res induced behavioral deficits and oxidative stress, while, dietary components prevented these adverse effects, we used TRP a pharmacological tool to prevent Res- induced changes in behavior, memory impairments, oxidative stress and regulation of serotonin neurotransmission in rats. Anxiolytic, antidepressant, cognitive functions, lipid peroxidation, antioxidant enzymes serotonin metabolism were studied in Res and vehicle treated animals following administration of 50 and 100 mg/ml/kg of tryptophan. Following administration of TRP [50 and 100mg/ml/kg], Res induced anxiety-and/or depression like behaviors normalized. Res-induced impaired cognitive function and increased acetylcholinesterase activity also improved following administration of TRP at both doses. Res induced increased brains' malondialdehyde (MDA) and decreased antioxidant enzymes activity also normalized by TRP. Res-induced decreased 5-HT metabolism also regulated by administration of TRP at both doses. In conclusion it can be recommended that administration/supplementation of TRP in daily life can aid in battling the anxiety, depression, modulating serotonergic activity and oxidative stress. Study also exhibits the anti-acetylcholinesterase role of TRP which may be possible reason for improved cognition following stress situation.

Gallic acid anti-myotoxic activity and mechanism of action, a snake venom phospholipase A2 toxin inhibitor, isolated from the medicinal plant Anacardium humile

Snakebite envenoming is the cause of an ongoing health crisis in several regions of the world, particularly in tropical and neotropical countries. This scenario creates an urgent necessity for new practical solutions to address the limitations of current therapies. The current study investigated the isolation, phytochemical characterization, and myotoxicity inhibition mechanism of gallic acid (GA), a myotoxin inhibitor obtained from Anacardium humile. The identification and isolation of GA was achieved by employing analytical chromatographic separation, which exhibited a compound with retention time and nuclear magnetic resonance spectra compatible with GA's commercial standard and data from the literature. GA alone was able to inhibit the myotoxic activity induced by the crude venom of Bothrops jararacussu and its two main myotoxins, BthTX-I and BthTX-II. Circular dichroism (CD), fluorescence spectroscopy (FS), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and interaction studies by molecular docking suggested that GA forms a complex with BthTX-I and II. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) kinetics assays showed that GA has a high affinity for BthTX-I with a K_D of 9.146 × 10^-7 M. Taken together, the two-state reaction mode of GA binding to BthTX-I, and CD, FS and DLS assays, suggest that GA is able to induce oligomerization and secondary structure changes for BthTX-I and -II. GA and other tannins have been shown to be effective inhibitors of snake venoms' toxic effects, and herein we demonstrated GA's ability to bind to and inhibit a snake venom PLA₂, thus proposing a new mechanism of PLA₂ inhibition, and presenting more evidence of GA's potential as an antivenom compound.

Apocynin Prevents Anxiety-Like Behavior and Histone Deacetylases Overexpression Induced by Sub-Chronic Stress in Mice

Anxiety disorders are common mental health diseases affecting up to 7% of people around the world. Stress is considered one of the major environmental risk factors to promote anxiety disorders through mechanisms involving epigenetic changes. Moreover, alteration in redox balance and increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production have been detected in anxiety patients and in stressed-animal models of anxiety. Here we tested if the administration of apocynin, a natural origin antioxidant, may prevent the anxiety-like phenotype and reduction of histone acetylation induced by a subchronic forced swimming stress (FSS) paradigm. We found that apocynin prevented the enhanced latency time in the novelty-suppressed feeding test, and the production of malondialdehyde induced by FSS. Moreover, apocynin was able to block the upregulation of p47phox, a key subunit of the NADPH oxidase complex. Finally, apocynin prevented the rise of hippocampal Hdac1, Hdac4 and Hdac5, and the reduction of histone-3 acetylation levels promoted by FSS exposure. In conclusion, our results provide evidence that apocynin reduces the deleterious effect of stress and suggests that oxidative stress may regulate epigenetic mechanisms.

Pre-conditioning of Mesenchymal Stem Cells with Piper longum L. augments osteogenic differentiation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The Indian Traditional Medicine, Ayurveda prescribes Piper longum L. popularly known as Long Pepper (Pippali) for the treatment of inflammatory and degenerative diseases. Therapeutic benefits of Piper longum L. are mainly attributed to the anti-inflammatory and arthritic potential.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study was aimed to explore the activity of Piper longum L. fruit extract on proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of human Wharton's Jelly Mesenchymal Stem Cells (WJMSCs) to find out it's possible role as anti-osteoporotic agent.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Proliferation of WJMSCs treated with Piper longum L. fruit extract was assessed by MTT assay and Cell Cycle Analysis. Effect of Piper longum L. preconditioning on osteogenic differentiation was performed. Ca2+ accumulation and matrix mineralization (Von Kossa and Alizarin Red Staining), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and gene expression of key mRNA (RT PCR) was analyzed.

RESULTS

Significant increase in the proliferation of WJMSCs was observed upon treatment of Piper longum L. at 5 μg/mL (P < 0.001) which can be attributed to the significant decrease in apoptotic cells (P < 0.05) as evidenced by cell cycle analysis. Preconditioning of Piper longum L. (10-100 μg/mL) enhanced Ca2+ accumulation and matrix mineralization as observed by Von Kossa and Alizarin Red staining where ALP activity was elevated 3.6 folds as compared to untreated WJMSCs (P < 0.001). RT-PCR analysis exhibited up regulation of Runx2, Osterix, ALP and OPN mRNAs.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrate for the first time that Piper longum L. fruit extract enhanced osteogenic differentiation of WJMSCs. This finding can be clinically translated into development of an anti-osteoporotic agent.

Chemical profile, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of Miconia albicans (Sw.) Triana (Melastomataceae) fruits extract

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Miconia albicans (Sw.) Triana has been widely used in Brazilian popular medicine for the treatment of several diseases. Aerial parts are used as an infusion to treat arthrosis and arthritis, to relieve rheumatic and stomach pains, and intestinal disorders due to its anti-inflammatory, anti-mutagenic anti-nociceptive, digestive and hepatoprotective properties.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to characterize the of M. albicans (Sw.) Triana fruits extract (MAFRE) chemical profile and to evaluate its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antitumor activities, as well as its toxicity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Maceration with methanol as liquid extractor was used to prepare MAFRE. M. albicans (Sw.) Triana fruits chemical composition was characterized by UHPLC-QTOF-MS/MS and GC-FID (fatty acid methyl esters composition from lyophilized fruits). MAFRE antioxidant potential was evaluated in vitro using a combination of assays: Folin-Ciocalteu reducing capacity, DPPH^• and ABTS radical scavenging ability and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). In vitro antiproliferative activity was investigated in four human tumor cell lines (U251, 786-0, HT29 and MDA-MB-231) while the effect on the non-tumor cell viability was assessed in the VERO cell line using the on-step MTT assay. In addition, in vivo anti-inflammatory effect was assessed by Croton oil-induced ear edema in mice followed by myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity evaluation.

RESULTS

Thirty-five compounds were identified by UHPLC-QTOF-MS/MS. Among it flavonoids derived from quercetin (8), myricetin (1), kaempferol (2), terpenoids (6) and other compounds (18). GC-FID analysis identified and quantified nine fatty acids: palmitic, stearic, arachidic, behenic, elaidic, oleic, eicosenoic, and linoleic acids. The most abundant fatty acids were polyunsaturated fatty acids (5.33 ± 0.17 mg g^-1), followed by saturated fatty acids (2.38 ± 0.07 mg g^-1) and monounsaturated fatty acids (1.74 ± 0.09 mg g^-1). The extract revealed high content of phenolic compounds (43.68 ± 0.50 mg GAE/g of extract), potent antioxidant, and ferrous chelating capacities. Morever, it proved to be non-toxic to the VERO cells, not affecting cells viability (95% of viable cells). No antiproliferative effect against human tumor cell lines were found. Furthermore, MAFRE significantly (p<0.05) reduced ear edema (≈35%) and MPO activity (84.5%) having a statistical effect similar to traditional steroidal and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, the results evidenced that M. albicans fruit extract has antioxidant properties, a higher concentration of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, fatty acids, and also topical anti-inflammatory activity with low toxicity of extract on VERO cells. Through the ethnomedicinal study, these findings supporting the popular use of M. albicans, but also highlight that not only aerial parts and leaves deserve attention, but the fruits also have anti-inflammatory proprieties and can be a source of phenolic compounds and other substances with potential health benefices.

Total barley maiya alkaloids inhibit prolactin secretion by acting on dopamine D2 receptor and protein kinase A targets

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Barley maiya from gramineous plants (Hordeum vulgare L.) is obtained from ripe fruits through germination and drying. It is often used to treat diseases associated with high prolactin levels.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the anti-hyperprolactinemia (anti-HPRL) mechanisms of total barley maiya alkaloids (TBMA) and hordenine.

METHODS

This experiment included 9 groups: Normal group, TBMA group, hordenine group, TBMA + haloperidol group, TBMA + forskolin group, TBMA + 8-bromo-cAMP group, hordenine + haloperidol group, hordenine + forskolin group, and hordenine + 8-bromo-cAMP group. The prolactin (PRL) concentration in the supernatant and the total cAMP concentration in the cells were detected by ELISA. The expression levels of PRL, dopamine D2 receptor (DRD2) and cAMP/PKA/CREB protein were measured by Western Blot.

RESULTS

In the TBMA group and the hordenine group, the PRL level in MMQ cells was significantly decreased, but in GH3 cells there was no change. DRD2 expression level was markedly increased, cAMP concentration was decreased, and the activity of PKA and CREB declined in MMQ cells. Compared with the TBMA group, there was a significant decrease of DRD2 expression level, a remarkable increase of PRL secretion and an increase of cAMP/PKA/CREB expression in MMQ cells within the TBMA + haloperidol group. Compared with the forskolin group, there was no significant change in PRL secretion and cAMP/PKA/CREB expression level in MMQ cells within the TBMA + forskolin group. There was a decrease in PRL secretion and cAMP/PKA/CREB expression level in MMQ cells within the TBMA + 8-bromo-cAMP group compared with the 8-bromo-cAMP group. Compared with the hordenine group, DRD2 expression level was significantly decreased, PRL secretion was markedly increased, and cAMP/PKA/CREB expression level was increased in MMQ cells within the hordenine + haloperidol group. There was no significant change in PRL secretion and cAMP/PKA/CREB expression level in MMQ cells within the hordenine + forskolin group compared with the forskolin group and within the hordenine + 8-bromo-cAMP group compared with the 8-bromo-cAMP group.

CONCLUSION

TBMA and hordenine can both play an anti-HPRL role via DRD2, and TBMA can also act on PKA targets to exert its anti-HPRL effect. TBMA and hordenine may be potential treatment strategies for HPRL.

Protective effects of gallic acid on doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity; an experimantal study

The present study aims to examine the possible beneficial effects of gallic acid (GA) against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in the experimental model. Rats were weighed and divided into groups. Groups as following; control, gallic acid (GA), doxorubicin (DOX) and GA + DOX groups. At the end of the experiment, rats were sacrificed and heart tissue removed. The tissues were analysed in terms of biochemical (MDA, SOD, CAT, GSH, GPx), pathological (hyaline degeneration, Zenkerin necrosis, hyperaemia) and immunohistochemical (TNF-α, Cox-2). MDA level decreased and antioxidant enzyme activities increased in GA + DOX group compared to doxorubicin group. TNF-α, Cox-2 expression levels were severe in the DOX group. Also, pathologic tissue damage in heart tissue increased due to doxorubicin. Additionally, pathologic tissue damage and TNF-α, Cox-2 expression levels decreased in GA + DOX group. According to our findings, GA has protective effect against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity.

An integrative view on vacuolar pH homeostasis in Arabidopsis thaliana: Combining mathematical modeling and experimentation

The acidification of plant vacuoles is of great importance for various physiological processes, as a multitude of secondary active transporters utilize the proton gradient established across the vacuolar membrane. Vacuolar-type H⁺ -translocating ATPases and a pyrophosphatase are thought to enable vacuoles to accumulate protons against their electrochemical potential. However, recent studies pointed to the ATPase located at the trans-Golgi network/early endosome (TGN/EE) to contribute to vacuolar acidification in a manner not understood as of now. Here, we combined experimental data and computational modeling to test different hypotheses for vacuolar acidification mechanisms. For this, we analyzed different models with respect to their ability to describe existing experimental data. To better differentiate between alternative acidification mechanisms, new experimental data have been generated. By fitting the models to the experimental data, we were able to prioritize the hypothesis in which vesicular trafficking of Ca²⁺ /H⁺ -antiporters from the TGN/EE to the vacuolar membrane and the activity of ATP-dependent Ca²⁺ -pumps at the tonoplast might explain the residual acidification observed in Arabidopsis mutants defective in vacuolar proton pump activity. The presented modeling approach provides an integrative perspective on vacuolar pH regulation in Arabidopsis and holds potential to guide further experimental work.

Acylation of non-specific phospholipase C4 determines its function in plant response to phosphate deficiency

Non-specific phospholipase C (NPC) is involved in plant growth, development and stress responses. To elucidate the mechanism by which NPCs mediate cellular functions, here we show that NPC4 is S-acylated at the C terminus and that acylation determines its plasma membrane (PM) association and function. The acylation of NPC4 was detected using NPC4 isolated from Arabidopsis and reconstituted in vitro. The C-terminal Cys-533 was identified as the S-acylation residue, and the mutation of Cys-533 to Ala-533 in NPC4 (NPC4^C533A ) led to the loss of S-acylation and membrane association of NPC4. The knockout of NPC4 impeded the phosphate deficiency-induced decrease of the phosphosphingolipid glycosyl inositol phosphoryl ceramide (GIPC), but introducing NPC4^C533A to npc4-1 failed to complement this defect, thereby supporting the hypothesis that the non-acylated NPC4^C533A fails to hydrolyze GIPC during phosphate deprivation. Moreover, NPC4^C533A failed to complement the primary root growth in npc4-1 under stress. In addition, NPC4 in Brassica napus was S-acylated and mutation of the S-acylating cysteine residue of BnaC01.NPC4 led to the loss of S-acylation and its membrane association. Together, our results reveal that S-acylation of NPC4 in the C terminus is conserved and required for its membrane association, phosphosphingolipid hydrolysis and function in plant stress responses.

ACE2 Expression Is Upregulated in Inflammatory Corneal Epithelial Cells and Attenuated by Resveratrol

Purpose

The ocular surface is considered an important route for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) transmission. The expression level of the SARS-CoV-2 receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is vital for viral infection. However, the regulation of ACE2 expression on the ocular surface is still unknown. We aimed to determine the change in ACE2 expression in inflamed corneal epithelium and explore potential drugs to reduce the expression of ACE2 on the ocular surface.

Methods

The expression of the SARS-CoV-2 receptors ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in human corneal epithelial cells (HCECs) was examined by qPCR and Western blotting. The altered expression of ACE2 in inflammatory corneal epithelium was evaluated in TNFα- and IL-1β-stimulated HCECs and inflamed mouse corneal epithelium, and the effect of resveratrol on ACE2 expression in HCECs was detected by immunofluorescence and Western blot analysis.

Results

ACE2 and TMPRSS2 are expressed on the human corneal epithelial cells. ACE2 expression is upregulated in HCECs by stimulation with TNFα and IL-1β and inflamed mouse corneas, including dry eye and alkali-burned corneas. In addition, resveratrol attenuates the increased expression of ACE2 induced by TNFα in HCECs.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that ACE2 is highly expressed in HCECs and can be upregulated by stimulation with inflammatory cytokines and inflamed mouse corneal epithelium. Resveratrol may be able to reduce the increased expression of ACE2 on the inflammatory ocular surface. Our work suggests that patients with an inflammatory ocular surface may display higher ACE2 expression, which increases the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Functional inhibition of lactate dehydrogenase suppresses pancreatic adenocarcinoma progression

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD) a highly lethal malignancy. The current use of clinical parameters may not accurately predict the clinical outcome, which further renders the unsatisfactory therapeutic outcome.

METHODS

In this study, we retrospectively analyzed the clinical-pathological characteristics and prognosis of 253 PAAD patients. Univariate, multivariate, and Kaplan-Meier survival analyses were conducted to assess risk factors and clinical outcomes. For functional study, we performed bidirectional genetic manipulation of lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA) in PAAD cell lines to measure PAAD progression by both in vitro and in vivo assays.

RESULTS

LDHA is particularly overexpressed in PAAD tissues and elevated serum LDHA-transcribed isoenzymes-5 (LDH-5) was associated with poorer patients' clinical outcomes. Genetic overexpression of LDHA promoted the proliferation and invasion in vitro, and tumor growth and metastasis in vivo in murine PAAD orthotopic models, while knockdown of LDHA exhibited opposite effects. LDHA-induced L-lactate production was responsible for the LDHA-facilitated PAAD progression. Mechanistically, LDHA overexpression reduced the phosphorylation of metabolic regulator AMPK and promoted the downstream mTOR phosphorylation in PAAD cells. Inhibition of mTOR repressed the LDHA-induced proliferation and invasion. A natural product berberine was selected as functional inhibitor of LDHA, which reduced activity and expression of the protein in PAAD cells. Berberine inhibited PAAD cells proliferation and invasion in vitro, and suppressed tumor progression in vivo. The restoration of LDHA attenuated the suppressive effect of berberine on PAAD.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that LDHA may be a novel biomarker and potential therapeutic target of human PAAD.

Celastrol inhibit the proliferation, invasion and migration of human cervical HeLa cancer cells through down-regulation of MMP-2 and MMP-9

The present study evaluated the anticancer potential of celastrol through down-regulation of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and MMP-9. HeLa cells were incubated with different concentrations of celastrol (1, 10 and 100 µM) for 48h. Doxorubicin was used as a reference drug. Cancer cell migration, apoptosis, cell viability and mitochondrial fragmentation were evaluated following celastrol treatment. In addition, the expression level of MMP-2, MMP-9 and caspase-3 was evaluated following celastrol treatment. HeLa cell viability was 94.1 ± 7, 53.4 ± 4 and 36.3 ± 2% at 1-100 µM of celastrol, respectively. Apoptotic cell numbers were increased, and inhibition of larger wounds in cancer cells was observed following celastrol treatment. Celastrol-treated cells showed condensed nuclei and clumped mitochondria. Reduced expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 and increased expression of caspase-3 were observed following celastrol treatment. Based on the experimental results, we are concluding that the celastrol was effective against HeLa cervical cancer cells.

Concentration- and time-dependent induction of Cyp1a and DNA damage response by benzo(a)pyrene in LMH three-dimensional spheroids

In vitro liver toxicity tests performed using cell lines cultured as two-dimensional (2D) monolayer have limited CYP450 activity and may be inadequate for screening chemicals that require activation to exert toxicity. Metabolic competence is greatly improved using three-dimensional (3D) cell culture. In this study, Cyp1a induction, and subsequent DNA damage response induced by benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) were compared in 2D monolayer cells and 3D spheroids of the chicken hepatic cell line, LMH. Cells were exposed to BaP (0.1-100 μM) for different durations: 8, 24, 35, or 48 hr. Cyp1a activity, mRNA expression of Cyp1a and DNA damage response (DDR) genes, and phosphorylation of H2AX (γH2AX) were determined using the EROD assay, a customized PCR array, and flow cytometry, respectively. EROD activity was induced at 8 hr and achieved maximal induction at 24 hr in spheroids; earlier time points than for monolayer cells. In spheroids, BaP exposure resulted in a concentration-dependent increase in Cyp1a4 mRNA expression at 8 hr followed by upregulation of DDR genes at 24 hr, whereas Cyp1a4 mRNA induction was only observed at 48 hr in monolayer cells. Cyp1a5 mRNA was induced at 8 hr in monolayer cells but maximum induction was greater in spheroids. An increase in γH2AX was observed at 24 hr in spheroids; this endpoint was not evaluated in monolayer cells. These results suggest that BaP metabolism precedes the DNA damage response and occurs earlier in 3D spheroids. This study demonstrates that LMH 3D spheroids could be a suitable metabolically-competent in vitro model to measure genotoxicity of chemicals that require metabolic activation by Cyp1a.

Rutin Modulates MAPK Pathway Differently from Quercetin in Angiotensin II-Induced H9c2 Cardiomyocyte Hypertrophy

Rutin is a flavonoid with antioxidant property. It has been shown to exert cardioprotection against cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. However, studies regarding its antihypertrophic property are still lacking, whether it demonstrates similar antihypertrophic effect to its metabolite, quercetin. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the effects of both flavonoids on oxidative stress and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway in H9c2 cardiomyocytes that were exposed to angiotensin II (Ang II) to induce hypertrophy. Cardiomyocytes were exposed to Ang II (600 nM) with or without quercetin (331 μM) or rutin (50 μM) for 24 h. A group given vehicle served as the control. The concentration of the flavonoids was chosen based on the reported effective concentration to reduce cell hypertrophy or cardiac injury in H9c2 cells. Exposure to Ang II increased cell surface area, intracellular superoxide anion level, NADPH oxidase and inducible nitric oxide synthase activities, and reduced cellular superoxide dismutase activity and nitrite level, which were similarly reversed by both rutin and quercetin. Rutin had no significant effects on phosphorylated proteins of extracellular signal-related kinases (ERK1/2) and p38 but downregulated phosphorylated c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK1/2), which were induced by Ang II. Quercetin, on the other hand, had significantly downregulated the phosphorylated proteins of ERK1/2, p38, and JNK1/2. The quercetin inhibitory effect on JNK1/2 was stronger than the rutin. In conclusion, both flavonoids afford similar protective effects against Ang II-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, but they differently modulate MAPK pathway.

Development of a rational strategy for integration of lactate dehydrogenase A suppression into therapeutic algorithms for head and neck cancer

BACKGROUND

Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is a critical metabolic enzyme. LDH A (LDHA) overexpression is a hallmark of aggressive malignancies and has been linked to tumour initiation, reprogramming and progression in multiple tumour types. However, successful LDHA inhibition strategies have not materialised in the translational and clinical space. We sought to develop a rational strategy for LDHA suppression in the context of solid tumour treatment.

METHODS

We utilised a doxycycline-inducible short hairpin RNA (shRNA) system to generate LDHA suppression. Lactate and LDH activity levels were measured biochemically and kinetically using hyperpolarised 13C-pyruvate nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. We evaluated effects of LDHA suppression on cellular proliferation and clonogenic survival, as well as on tumour growth, in orthotopic models of anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), alone or in combination with radiation.

RESULTS

shRNA suppression of LDHA generated a time-dependent decrease in LDH activity with transient shifts in intracellular lactate levels, a decrease in carbon flux from pyruvate into lactate and compensatory shifts in metabolic flux in glycolysis and the Krebs cycle. LDHA suppression decreased cellular proliferation and temporarily stunted tumour growth in ATC and HNSCC xenografts but did not by itself result in tumour cure, owing to the maintenance of residual viable cells. Only when chronic LDHA suppression was combined with radiation was a functional cure achieved.

CONCLUSIONS

Successful targeting of LDHA requires exquisite dose and temporal control without significant concomitant off-target toxicity. Combinatorial strategies with conventional radiation are feasible as long as the suppression is targeted, prolonged and non-toxic.

Tyrosine kinases in the pathogenesis of tissue fibrosis in systemic sclerosis and potential therapeutic role of their inhibition

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an idiopathic autoimmune disease with a heterogeneous clinical phenotype ranging from limited cutaneous involvement to rapidly progressive diffuse SSc. The most severe SSc clinical and pathologic manifestations result from an uncontrolled fibrotic process involving the skin and various internal organs. The molecular mechanisms responsible for the initiation and progression of the SSc fibrotic process have not been fully elucidated. Recently it has been suggested that tyrosine protein kinases play a role. The implicated kinases include receptor-activated tyrosine kinases and nonreceptor tyrosine kinases. The receptor kinases are activated following specific binding of growth factors (platelet-derived growth factor, fibroblast growth factor, or vascular endothelial growth factor). Other receptor kinases are the discoidin domain receptors activated by binding of various collagens, the ephrin receptors that are activated by ephrins and the angiopoetin-Tie-2s receptors. The nonreceptor tyrosine kinases c-Abl, Src, Janus, and STATs have also been shown to participate in SSc-associated tissue fibrosis. Currently, there are no effective disease-modifying therapies for SSc-associated tissue fibrosis. Therefore, extensive investigation has been conducted to examine whether tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) may exert antifibrotic effects. Here, we review the role of receptor and nonreceptor tyrosine kinases in the pathogenesis of the frequently progressive cutaneous and systemic fibrotic alterations in SSc, and the potential of TKIs as SSc disease-modifying antifibrotic therapeutic agents.

Inhibitory Effects of Cycloheterophyllin on Melanin Synthesis

This study was performed to clarify the inhibitory effects of cycloheterophyllin on melanin synthesis. In order to elucidate the inhibitory effects of cycloheterophyllin on the B16F10 cell line, cell viability, messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) expressions, tyrosinase activity assay, and melanin production assay were measured. The effects of cycloheterophyllin on tyrosinase-related protein 1 (TYRP1)/TYRP2/tyrosinase (TYR)/microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) mRNA expressions and melanin content were determined. Quantitative real-time RT-PCR showed that cycloheterophyllin decreased the mRNA expression level of TYRP1/TYRP2/TYR/MITF genes and melanin production contents than α-MSH-treated B16F10 cells. The tyrosinase activity assay revealed that cycloheterophyllin decreased the melanin production in the B16F10 cells. These data show that cycloheterophyllin increases the whitening effects in the B16F10 cells; thus, cycloheterophyllin is a potent ingredient for skin whitening. Thus, further research on the mechanism of action of cycloheterophyllin for the development of functional materials should be investigated.

Metformin Protects against NMDA-Induced Retinal Injury through the MEK/ERK Signaling Pathway in Rats

Metformin, an anti-hyperglycemic drug of the biguanide class, exerts positive effects in several non-diabetes-related diseases. In this study, we aimed to examine the protective effects of metformin against N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA)-induced excitotoxic retinal damage in rats and determine the mechanisms of its protective effects. Male Sprague–Dawley rats (7 to 9 weeks old) were used in this study. Following intravitreal injection of NMDA (200 nmol/eye), the number of neuronal cells in the ganglion cell layer and parvalbumin-positive amacrine cells decreased, whereas the number of CD45-positive leukocytes and Iba1-positive microglia increased. Metformin attenuated these NMDA-induced responses. The neuroprotective effect of metformin was abolished by compound C, an inhibitor of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). The AMPK activator, AICAR, exerted a neuroprotective effect in NMDA-induced retinal injury. The MEK1/2 inhibitor, U0126, reduced the neuroprotective effect of metformin. These results suggest that metformin protects against NMDA-induced retinal neurotoxicity through activation of the AMPK and MEK/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling pathways. This neuroprotective effect could be partially attributable to the inhibitory effects on inflammatory responses.

4-Methyl-2,4-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)pent-1-ene, a Major Active Metabolite of Bisphenol A, Triggers Pancreatic β-Cell Death via a JNK/AMPKα Activation-Regulated Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress-Mediated Apoptotic Pathway

4-methyl-2,4-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)pent-1-ene (MBP), a major active metabolite of bisphenol A (BPA), is generated in the mammalian liver. Some studies have suggested that MBP exerts greater toxicity than BPA. However, the mechanism underlying MBP-induced pancreatic β-cell cytotoxicity remains largely unclear. This study demonstrated the cytotoxicity of MBP in pancreatic β-cells and elucidated the cellular mechanism involved in MBP-induced β-cell death. Our results showed that MBP exposure significantly reduced cell viability, caused insulin secretion dysfunction, and induced apoptotic events including increased caspase-3 activity and the expression of active forms of caspase-3/-7/-9 and PARP protein. In addition, MBP triggered endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, as indicated by the upregulation of GRP 78, CHOP, and cleaved caspase-12 proteins. Pretreatment with 4-phenylbutyric acid (4-PBA; a pharmacological inhibitor of ER stress) markedly reversed MBP-induced ER stress and apoptosis-related signals. Furthermore, exposure to MBP significantly induced the protein phosphorylation of JNK and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)α. Pretreatment of β-cells with pharmacological inhibitors for JNK (SP600125) and AMPK (compound C), respectively, effectively abrogated the MBP-induced apoptosis-related signals. Both JNK and AMPK inhibitors also suppressed the MBP-induced activation of JNK and AMPKα and of each other. In conclusion, these findings suggest that MBP exposure exerts cytotoxicity on β-cells via the interdependent activation of JNK and AMPKα, which regulates the downstream apoptotic signaling pathway.

AKT/AMPK-mediated phosphorylation of TBC1D4 disrupts the interaction with insulin-regulated aminopeptidase

TBC1D4 is a 160 kDa multidomain Rab GTPase-activating protein (RabGAP) and a downstream target of the insulin- and contraction-activated kinases AKT and AMPK. Phosphorylation of TBC1D4 has been linked to translocation of GLUT4 from storage vesicles (GSVs) to the cell surface. However, its impact on enzymatic activity is not well understood, as previous studies mostly investigated the truncated GAP domain lacking the known phosphorylation sites. In the present study, we expressed and purified recombinant full-length TBC1D4 using a baculovirus system. Size-exclusion chromatography and coimmunoprecipitation experiments revealed that full-length TBC1D4 forms oligomers of ∼600 kDa. Compared with the truncated GAP domain, full-length TBC1D4 displayed similar substrate specificity, but had a markedly higher specific GAP activity toward Rab10. Using high-resolution mass spectrometry, we mapped 19 Ser/Thr phosphorylation sites in TBC1D4. We determined Michaelis–Menten kinetics using in vitro phosphorylation assays with purified kinases and stable isotope-labeled γ-[¹⁸O₄]-ATP. These data revealed that Ser³²⁴ (K_M ∼6 μM) and Thr⁶⁴⁹ (K_M ∼25 μM) were preferential sites for phosphorylation by AKT, whereas Ser³⁴⁸, Ser⁵⁷⁷, Ser⁵⁹⁵ (K_M ∼10 μM), Ser⁷¹¹ (K_M ∼79 μM), and Ser⁷⁶⁴ were found to be preferred targets for AMPK. Phosphorylation of TBC1D4 by AKT or AMPK did not alter the intrinsic RabGAP activity, but did disrupt interaction with insulin-regulated aminopeptidase (IRAP), a resident protein of GSVs implicated in GLUT4 trafficking. These findings provide evidence that insulin and contraction may regulate TBC1D4 function primarily by disrupting the recruitment of the RabGAP to GLUT4 vesicles.

Peroxiredoxin alleviates the fitness costs of imidacloprid resistance in an insect pest of rice

Chemical insecticides have been heavily employed as the most effective measure for control of agricultural and medical pests, but evolution of resistance by pests threatens the sustainability of this approach. Resistance-conferring mutations sometimes impose fitness costs, which may drive subsequent evolution of compensatory modifier mutations alleviating the costs of resistance. However, how modifier mutations evolve and function to overcome the fitness cost of resistance still remains unknown. Here we show that overexpression of P450s not only confers imidacloprid resistance in the brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens, the most voracious pest of rice, but also leads to elevated production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) through metabolism of imidacloprid and host plant compounds. The inevitable production of ROS incurs a fitness cost to the pest, which drives the increase or fixation of the compensatory modifier allele T65549 within the promoter region of N. lugens peroxiredoxin (NlPrx) in the pest populations. T65549 allele in turn upregulates the expression of NlPrx and thus increases resistant individuals' ability to clear the cost-incurring ROS of any source. The frequent involvement of P450s in insecticide resistance and their capacity to produce ROS while metabolizing their substrates suggest that peroxiredoxin or other ROS-scavenging genes may be among the common modifier genes for alleviating the fitness cost of insecticide resistance.

Influence of CYP2C9, VKORC1, and CYP4F2 polymorphisms on the pharmacodynamic parameters of warfarin: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Warfarin is the most commonly evaluated drug in pharmacogenetic-guided dosing studies. However, gaps remain regarding the influence of the genetic polymorphisms of CYP2C9, VKORC1, and CYP4F2 on specific pharmacodynamic parameters like the warfarin sensitivity index (WSI), prothrombin time international normalized ratio (PT-INR), and log-INR variability.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted in non-smoking adults receiving warfarin for at least 6 months. Their demographics, diagnoses, warfarin dosing regimen, concomitant drugs, PT-INR, and bleeding episodes were obtained. CYP2C9 (rs1057910-*3 and rs1799853-*2 alleles), CYP4F2 (rs2108622), and VKORC1 (rs9923231) polymorphisms were assessed using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Three genotype groups (I-III) were defined based on the combined genetic polymorphisms of CYP2C9 and VKORC1 from the FDA's recommendations. Key outcome measures included anticoagulation control, time spent in therapeutic range, stable warfarin dose, WSI, log-INR variability, and Warfarin Composite Measure (WCM).

RESULTS

The study recruited 236 patients; 75 (31.8%) carried a functional CYP2C9 variant allele, and, 143 (60.6%) had at least one T allele in CYP4F2 and 133 (56.4%) had at least one T allele in VKORC1. Groups' II and III CYP2C9 and VKORC1 genotypes were observed with reduced stable warfarin dose, increased WSI, higher log-INR variability, and increased bleeding risk. The presence of *2 or *3 allele in CYP2C9 was observed with reduced stable warfarin doses akin to the presence of T alleles in VKORC1; however, the doses increased with T alleles in CYP4F2.

CONCLUSION

The evaluated genetic polymorphisms significantly influenced all the pharmacodynamic parameters of warfarin. Evaluating CYP2C9, VKORC1, and CYP4F2 genetic polymorphisms prior to warfarin initiation is likely to optimize therapeutic response.

Glucokinase activation as antidiabetic therapy: effect of nutraceuticals and phytochemicals on glucokinase gene expression and enzymatic activity

Diabetes represents an important public health problem. Recently, new molecular targets have been identified and exploited to treat this disease. Due to its pivotal role in glucose homeostasis, glucokinase (GCK) is a promising target for the development of novel antidiabetic drugs; however, pharmacological agents that modulate GCK activity have been linked to undesirable side-effects, limiting its use. Interestingly, plants might be a valuable source of new therapeutic compounds with GCK-activating properties and presumably no adverse effects. In this review, we describe biochemical characteristics related to the physiological and pathological importance of GCK, as well as the mechanisms involved in its regulation at different molecular levels. Posteriorly, we present a compendium of findings supporting the potential use of nutraceuticals and phytochemicals in the management of diabetes through modulation of GCK expression and activity. Finally, we propose critical aspects to keep in mind when designing experiments to evaluate GCK modulation properly.

Revisiting Pleiotropic Effects of Type I Interferons: Rationale for Its Prophylactic and Therapeutic Use Against SARS-CoV-2

The pandemic distribution of SARS-CoV-2 together with its particular feature of inactivating the interferon-based endogenous response and accordingly, impairing the innate immunity, has become a challenge for the international scientific and medical community. Fortunately, recombinant interferons as therapeutic products have accumulated a long history of beneficial therapeutic results in the treatment of chronic and acute viral diseases and also in the therapy of some types of cancer. One of the first antiviral treatments during the onset of COVID-19 in China was based on the use of recombinant interferon alfa 2b, so many clinicians began to use it, not only as therapy but also as a prophylactic approach, mainly in medical personnel. At the same time, basic research on interferons provided new insights that have contributed to a much better understanding of how treatment with interferons, initially considered as antivirals, actually has a much broader pharmacological scope. In this review, we briefly describe interferons, how they are induced in the event of a viral infection, and how they elicit signaling after contact with their specific receptor on target cells. Additionally, some of the genes stimulated by type I interferons are described, as well as the way interferon-mediated signaling is torpedoed by coronaviruses and in particular by SARS-CoV-2. Angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) gene is one of the interferon response genes. Although for many scientists this fact could result in an adverse effect of interferon treatment in COVID-19 patients, ACE2 expression contributes to the balance of the renin-angiotensin system, which is greatly affected by SARS-CoV-2 in its internalization into the cell. This manuscript also includes the relationship between type I interferons and neutrophils, NETosis, and interleukin 17. Finally, under the subtitle of "take-home messages", we discuss the rationale behind a timely treatment with interferons in the context of COVID-19 is emphasized.

Inverse Data-Driven Modeling and Multiomics Analysis Reveals Phgdh as a Metabolic Checkpoint of Macrophage Polarization and Proliferation

Mechanistic or mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) is an important regulator of effector functions, proliferation, and cellular metabolism in macrophages. The biochemical processes that are controlled by mTORC1 are still being defined. Here, we demonstrate that integrative multiomics in conjunction with a data-driven inverse modeling approach, termed COVRECON, identifies a biochemical node that influences overall metabolic profiles and reactions of mTORC1-dependent macrophage metabolism. Using a combined approach of metabolomics, proteomics, mRNA expression analysis, and enzymatic activity measurements, we demonstrate that Tsc2, a negative regulator of mTORC1 signaling, critically influences the cellular activity of macrophages by regulating the enzyme phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase (Phgdh) in an mTORC1-dependent manner. More generally, while lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated macrophages repress Phgdh activity, IL-4-stimulated macrophages increase the activity of the enzyme required for the expression of key anti-inflammatory molecules and macrophage proliferation. Thus, we identify Phgdh as a metabolic checkpoint of M2 macrophages.

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Metabolomics and inverse modeling reveal a Tsc2/mTORC1-dependent checkpoint in macrophages

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M2 macrophages have high Phgdh activity

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Phgdh activity promotes M2 polarization

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Phgdh activity supports macrophage proliferation

Inhibition of Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase (iNOS) by Andrographolide and In Vitro Evaluation of Its Antiproliferative and Proapoptotic Effects on Cervical Cancer

This work is aimed at investigating the expression levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in cervical cancer and identifying a potential iNOS inhibitor. The data mining studies performed advocated iNOS to be a promising biomarker for cancer prognosis, as it is highly overexpressed in several malignant cancers. The elevated iNOS was found to be associated with poor survival and increased tumor aggressiveness in cervical cancer. Immunohistochemical and RT-PCR investigations of iNOS showed significant upregulation of endogenous iNOS expression in the cervical tumor samples, thus making iNOS a potent target for decreasing tumor inflammation and aggressiveness. Andrographolide, a plant-derived diterpenoid lactone, is widely reported to be effective against infections and inflammation, causing no adverse side effects on humans. In the current study, we investigated the effect of andrographolide on the prognostic value of iNOS expression in cervical cancer, which has not been reported previously. The binding efficacy of andrographolide was analyzed by performing molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulations. Multiple parameters were used to analyze the simulation trajectory, like root mean square deviation (RMSD), torsional degree of freedom, protein-root mean square fluctuations (P-RMSF), ligand RMSF, total number of intramolecular hydrogen bonds, secondary structure elements (SSE) of the protein, and protein complex with the time-dependent functions of MDS. Ligand-protein interactions revealed binding efficacy of andrographolide with tryptophan amino acid of iNOS protein. Cancer cell proliferation, cell migration, cell cycle analysis, and apoptosis-mediated cell death were assessed in vitro, post iNOS inhibition induced by andrographolide treatment (demonstrated by Western blot). Results. Andrographolide exhibited cytotoxicity by inhibiting the in vitro proliferation of cervical cancer cells and also abrogated the cancer cell migration. A significant increase in apoptosis was observed with increasing andrographolide concentration, and it also induced cell cycle arrest at G1-S phase transition. Our results substantiate that andrographolide significantly inhibits iNOS expression and exhibits antiproliferative and proapoptotic effects on cervical cancer cells.

Endothelial Nox5 Expression Modulates Glucose Uptake and Lipid Accumulation in Mice Fed a High-Fat Diet and 3T3-L1 Adipocytes Treated with Glucose and Palmitic Acid

Obesity is a global health issue associated with insulin resistance and altered lipid homeostasis. It has been described that reactive oxygen species (ROS) derived from nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase (NOX) activity are involved in the development of these pathologies. The present study describes the role of endothelial NOX5 expression over adipose tissue by using two experimental systems: NOX5 conditional knock-in mice fed with a high-fat diet and 3T3-L1 adipocytes cultured with conditioned media of NOX5-expressing endothelial cells previously treated with glucose and palmitic acid. Animals expressing NOX5 presented lower body weight gain and less mesenteric and epididymal adipose mass compared to control mice fed with the same diet. NOX5-expressing mice also showed significantly lower glycaemia and improved insulin-induced glucose uptake. In addition, Glut4 and Caveolin 1 (Cav1) expression were significantly increased in the adipose tissue of these animals. Likewise, 3T3-L1 adipocytes treated with conditioned media from NOX5-expressing endothelial cells, incubated with high glucose and palmitic acid, presented a reduction in lipid accumulation and an increase in glucose uptake. Moreover, a significant increase in the expression of Glut4 and Cav1 was also detected in these cells. Taken together, all these data support that, in response to a highly caloric diet, NOX5 endothelial activity may regulate glucose sensitivity and lipid homeostasis in the adipose tissue.

Genome-wide identification and classification of Lipoxygenase gene family and their roles in sorghum-aphid interaction

This report shows detailed characterization of LOX gene family in sorghum and provides new insight of sorghum LOX genes in genetic structure and their roles in plant response to infestation by sugarcane aphids. Lipoxygenases (LOXs) are monomeric, nonheme iron-containing dioxygenases that initiate the fatty acid oxidation pathway creating oxylipins and plant hormone jasmonate both have a key role in plant development and defense. To date, a comprehensive and systematic analysis of sorghum LOXs is still deficient. Thus, we performed a genome-wide analysis of the sorghum LOXs genome and identified nine LOXs genes. Detailed examination of protein sequences and phylogenetic analysis categorized the sorghum LOXs into two subclasses, 9-LOXs (SbLOX1, SbLOX3, SbLOX4, SbLOXm, and SbLOXo), 13-LOXs (SbLOX9, SbLOX5, and SbLOX2), and the unclassified SbLOX8. This classification was further supported by sequence similarity/identity matrix and subcellular localization analysis. The lipoxygenase domains, motifs, and vital amino acids were highly conserved in all sorghum LOX genes. In silico analysis of the promoter region of SbLOXs identified different hormones responsive cis-elements. Furthermore, to explore the roles of sorghum LOXs during sugarcane aphid feeding and exogenous MeJA application, expression analysis was conducted for all the eight LOXs in resistant (Tx2783) and susceptible (Tx7000) sorghum lines, respectively. As detailed in this report, the data generated from both genome-wide identification and expression analysis of lipoxygenase genes suggest the putative functions of two 13-LOXs (SbLOX9 and SbLOX5) and three 9-LOXs (SbLOX1, SbLOX3, and SbLOXo) in biosynthesis of jasmonic acid, green leaf volatiles and death acids, and all of them are involved in defense-related functions in plants. Furthermore, this report represents the first genome-wide analysis of the LOX gene family in sorghum, which will facilitate future studies to characterize the roles of each individual LOXs gene in aphid resistance and defense responses to other stresses.

Involvement of sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA) in mPRα (PAQR7)-mediated progesterone induction of vascular smooth muscle relaxation

Progesterone acts directly on vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) through activation of membrane progesterone receptor α (mPRα)-dependent signaling to rapidly decrease cytosolic Ca²⁺ concentrations and induce muscle relaxation. However, it is not known whether this progesterone action involves uptake of Ca²⁺ by the sarco/endoplasmic reticulum (SR) and increased sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca²⁺-ATPase (SERCA) activity. The present results show that treatment of cultured human VSMCs with progesterone and the selective mPR agonist Org OD-02-0 (OD 02-0) but not with the nuclear PR agonist R5020 increased SERCA protein expression, which was blocked by knockdown of mPRα with siRNA. Moreover, treatments with progesterone and OD 02-0, but not with R5020, increased phospholamban (PLB) phosphorylation, which would result in disinhibition of SERCA function. Progesterone and OD 02-0 significantly increased Ca²⁺ levels in the SR and caused VSMC relaxation. These effects were blocked by pretreatment with cyclopiazonic acid (CPA), a SERCA inhibitor, and by knockdown of SERCA2 with siRNA, suggesting that SERCA2 plays a critical role in progesterone induction of VSMC relaxation. Treatment with inhibitors of inhibitory G proteins (Gi, NF023), MAP kinase (AZD 6244), Akt/Pi3k (wortmannin), and a Rho activator (calpeptin) blocked the progesterone- and OD 02-0-induced increase in Ca²⁺ levels in the SR and SERCA expressions. These results suggest that the rapid effects of progesterone on cytosolic Ca²⁺ levels and relaxation of VSMCs through mPRα involve regulation of the functions of SERCA2 and PLB through Gi, MAP kinase, and Akt signaling pathways and downregulation of RhoA activity.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The rapid effects of progesterone on cytosolic Ca²⁺ levels and relaxation of VSMCs through mPRα involve regulation of the functions of SERCA2 and PLB through Gi, MAP kinase, and Akt signaling pathways and downregulation of RhoA activity.

8-Hydroxybriaranes from Octocoral Briareum stechei (Briareidae) (Kükenthal, 1908)

Chemical investigation of the octocoral Briareum stechei, collected in the Ie Island, Okinawa, Japan, resulted in the isolation of a new briarane-type diterpenoid, briastecholide A (1), as well as the previously reported metabolites, solenolide C (2) and briarenolide S (3). The structures of briaranes 1–3 were characterized through spectroscopic analysis, and the absolute configuration of 2 was corroborated by a single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. Briarane 3 exhibited bioactivity against the protein expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS).

Structural Determination, Biological Function, and Molecular Modelling Studies of Sulfoaildenafil Adulterated in Herbal Dietary Supplement

Unapproved ingredients included in herbal medicines and dietary supplements have been detected as adulterated synthetic drugs used for erectile dysfunction. Extraction from a dietary supplement was performed to isolate the compounds by HPLC analysis. The structural characterization was confirmed using mass spectrometry (ESI-TOF/MS and LC-MS/MS), 1H NMR, and 13C NMR spectroscopy techniques. Results identified the thus-obtained compound to be sulfoaildenafil, a thioketone analogue of sildenafil. The biological activities of this active compound have been focused for the first time by the experimental point of view performance in vitro. The results revealed that sulfoaildenafil can affect the therapeutic level of nitric oxide through the upregulation of nitric oxide synthase and phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) gene expressions. This bulk material, which displays structural similarity to sildenafil, was analyzed for the presence of a PDE5 inhibitor using a theoretical calculation. These unique features of the potential activity of PDE5 protein and its inhibitors, sildenafil and sulfoaildenafil, may play a key consideration for understanding the mode of actions and predicting the biological activities of PDE5 inhibitors.

Carbonyl reduction pathway in hepatic in vitro metabolism of anthracyclines: Impact of structure on biotransformation rate

Carbonyl reduction biotransformation pathway of anthracyclines (doxorubicin, daunorubicin) is a significant process, associated with drug metabolism and elimination. However, it also plays a pivotal role in anthracyclines-induced cardiotoxicity and cancer resistance. Herein, carbonyl reduction of eight anthracyclines, at in vivo relevant concentrations (20 μM), was studied in human liver cytosol, to describe the relationship between their structure and metabolism. Significant differences of intrinsic clearance between anthracyclines, ranging from 0,62-74,9 μL/min/mg were found and associated with data from in silico analyses, considering their binding in active sites of the main anthracyclines-reducing enzymes: carbonyl reductase 1 (CBR1) and aldo-keto reductase 1C3 (AKR1C3). Partial atomic charges of carbonyl oxygen atom were also determined and considered as a factor associated with reaction rate. Structural features, including presence or absence of side-chain hydroxy group, a configuration of sugar chain hydroxy group, and tetracyclic rings substitution, affecting anthracyclines susceptibility for carbonyl reduction were identified.

Stevioside Activates AMPK to Suppress Inflammation in Macrophages and Protects Mice from LPS-Induced Lethal Shock

Stevioside, a diterpenoid glycoside, is widely used as a natural sweetener; meanwhile, it has been proven to possess various pharmacological properties as well. However, until now there were no comprehensive evaluations focused on the anti-inflammatory activity of stevioside. Thus, the anti-inflammatory activities of stevioside, both in macrophages (RAW 264.7 cells, THP-1 cells, and mouse peritoneal macrophages) and in mice, were extensively investigated for the potential application of stevioside as a novel anti-inflammatory agent. The results showed that stevioside was capable of down-regulating lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced expression and production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators in macrophages from different sources, such as IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1β, iNOS/NO, COX2, and HMGB1, whereas it up-regulated the anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-10 and TGF-β1. Further investigation showed that stevioside could activate the AMPK -mediated inhibition of IRF5 and NF-κB pathways. Similarly, in mice with LPS-induced lethal shock, stevioside inhibited release of pro-inflammatory factors, enhanced production of IL-10, and increased the survival rate of mice. More importantly, stevioside was also shown to activate AMPK in the periphery blood mononuclear cells of mice. Together, these results indicated that stevioside could significantly attenuate LPS-induced inflammatory responses both in vitro and in vivo through regulating several signaling pathways. These findings further strengthened the evidence that stevioside may be developed into a therapeutic agent against inflammatory diseases.

KLF9 regulates PRDX6 expression in hyperglycemia-aggravated bupivacaine neurotoxicity

BACKGROUND

Neurotoxicity induced by local anesthetics (LAs) is potentially life threatening, especially for patients with underlying diseases like diabetes. The anesthetic bupivacaine (Bup) has been reported to induce neurotoxicity mediated by reactive oxygen species (ROS), which is aggravated by hyperglycemia. Krüppel-like factor 9 (KLF9), an axon growth-suppressing transcription factor, plays a key role in neuronal maturation and promotes oxidative stress. This study was designed to investigate whether and how KLF9 regulates ROS levels related to LA neurotoxicity under hyperglycemic conditions.

METHODS

Klf9/GFP ShRNA (LV Sh-Klf9) was used to achieve stable Klf9 knockdown in the SH-SY5Y cell line. KLF9-deficient and normal cells were cultured under normal or high-glucose (HG) culture conditions and then exposed to Bup. Cell viability, intracellular and mitochondrial ROS, and mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) were detected to examine the role of KLF9. Thereafter, KLF9-deficient and normal cells were pretreated with small-interfering RNA targeting peroxiredoxin 6 (siRNA-Prdx6) to determine if PRDX6 was the target protein in HG-aggravated Bup neurotoxicity.

RESULTS

The mRNA and protein levels of KLF9 were increased after Bup and hyperglycemia treatment. In addition, cell survival and mitochondrial function were significantly improved, and ROS production was decreased after Sh-Klf9 treatment compared with Sh-Ctrl. Furthermore, the expression of PRDX6 was suppressed by Bup in hyperglycemic cultures and was upregulated in the Sh-Klf9 group. Moreover, the protection provided by KLF9 deficiency for cell survival, the increase in ROS production in cells and mitochondria, and the disruption of mitochondrial function were abolished by Prdx6 knockdown.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study demonstrated that hyperglycemia aggravated Bup neurotoxicity by upregulating KLF9 expression, which repressed the antioxidant PRDX6 and led to mitochondrial dysfunction, ROS burst, and cell death. Understanding this mechanism may, thus, offer valuable insights for the prevention and treatment of neurotoxicity induced by LAs, especially in diabetic patients.

Ubash3b promotes TPA-mediated suppression of leukemogenesis through accelerated downregulation of PKCδ protein

Acquired drug-resistance, often involving downregulation or mutations in the target protein, is a major caveat in precision medicine. Understanding mechanisms of resistance to therapeutic drugs may unravel strategies to overcome or prevent them. We previously identified phorbol ester (PE) compounds such as TPA that induce Protein Kinase δ (PKCδ), thereby suppressing leukemogenesis. Here we identified erythroleukemia cell lines that resist PEs and showed that reduced PKCδ protein expression underlies drug resistance. Reduced level of PKCδ in resistant cell lines was due to its phosphorylation followed by protein degradation. Indeed, proteasome inhibition prevented PE-induced loss of PKCδ. Accordingly, a combination of TPA and the proteasome inhibitor ALLN significantly suppressed leukemia in a mouse model of leukemia. PKCδ downregulation by TPA was independent of the downstream MAPK/ERK/P38/JNK pathway. Instead, expression of ubiquitin-associated and SH3 domain-containing protein b (Ubash3b) was induced by TPA, which leads to PKCδ protein dephosphorylation and degradation. This specific degradation was blocked by RNAi-mediated depletion of Ubash3b. In drug-sensitive leukemic cells, TPA did not induce Ubash3b, and consequently, PKCδ levels remained high. A PE-resistant cell line derived from PE-treated sensitive cells exhibited very low PKCδ expression. In these drug resistance cells, a Ubash3b independent mechanism led to PKCδ degradation. Thus, PE compounds in combination with proteasome or specific inhibitors for Ubash3b, or other factors can overcome resistance to TPA, leading to durable suppression of leukemic growth. These results identify Ubash3b as a potential target for drug development.

Bioactivation of trichloroethylene to three regioisomeric glutathione conjugates by liver fractions and recombinant human glutathione transferases: Species differences and implications for human risk assessment

Enzymatic conjugation of glutathione (GSH) to trichloroethylene (TCE) followed by catabolism to the corresponding cysteine-conjugate, S-(dichlorovinyl)-L-cysteine (DCVC), and subsequent bioactivation by renal cysteine conjugate beta-lyases is considered to play an important role in the nephrotoxic effects observed in TCE-exposed rat and human. In this study, it is shown for the first time that three regioisomers of GSH-conjugates of TCE are formed by rat and human liver fractions, namely S-(1,2-trans-dichlorovinyl)-glutathione (1,2-trans-DCVG), S-(1,2-cis-dichlorovinyl)-glutathione (1,2-cis-DCVG) and S-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-glutathione (2,2-DCVG). In incubations of TCE with rat liver fractions their amounts decreased in order of 1,2-cis-DCVG > 1,2-trans-DCVG > 2,2-DCVG. Human liver cytosol showed a more than 10-fold lower activity of GSH-conjugation, with amounts of regioisomers decreasing in order 2,2-DCVG > 1,2-trans-DCVG > 1,2-cis-DCVG. Incubations with recombinant human GSTs suggest that GSTA1-1 and GSTA2-2 play the most important role in human liver cytosol. GSTP1-1, which produces regioisomers in order 1,2-trans-DCVG > 2,2-cis-DCVG > 1,2-cis-DCVG, is likely to contribute to extrahepatic GSH-conjugation of TCE. Analysis of the products formed by a beta-lyase mimetic model showed that both 1,2-trans-DCVC and 1,2-cis-DCVC are converted to reactive products that form cross-links between the model nucleophile 4-(4-nitrobenzyl)-pyridine (NBP) and thiol-species. No NBP-alkylation was observed with 2,2-DCVC corresponding to its low cytotoxicity and mutagenicity. The lower activity of GSH-conjugation of TCE by human liver fractions, in combination with the lower fraction of potential nephrotoxic and mutagenic 1,2-DCVG-isomers, suggest that humans are at much lower risk for TCE-associated nephrotoxic effects than rats.

Derangement of hepatic polyamine, folate, and methionine cycle metabolism in cystathionine beta-synthase-deficient homocystinuria in the presence and absence of treatment: Possible implications for pathogenesis

Cystathionine beta-synthase deficient homocystinuria (HCU) is a life-threatening disorder of sulfur metabolism. Our knowledge of the metabolic changes induced in HCU are based almost exclusively on data derived from plasma. In the present study, we present a comprehensive analysis on the effects of HCU upon the hepatic metabolites and enzyme expression levels of the methionine-folate cycles in a mouse model of HCU. HCU induced a 10-fold increase in hepatic total homocysteine and in contrast to plasma, this metabolite was only lowered by approximately 20% by betaine treatment indicating that this toxic metabolite remains unacceptably elevated. Hepatic methionine, S-adenosylmethionine, S-adenosylhomocysteine, N-acetlymethionine, N-formylmethionine, methionine sulfoxide, S-methylcysteine, serine, N-acetylserine, taurocyamine and N-acetyltaurine levels were also significantly increased by HCU while cysteine, N-acetylcysteine and hypotaurine were all significantly decreased. In terms of polyamine metabolism, HCU significantly decreased spermine and spermidine levels while increasing 5'-methylthioadenosine. Betaine treatment restored normal spermine and spermidine levels but further increased 5'-methylthioadenosine. HCU induced a 2-fold induction in expression of both S-adenosylhomocysteine hydrolase and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase. Induction of this latter enzyme was accompanied by a 10-fold accumulation of its product, 5-methyl-tetrahydrofolate, with the potential to significantly perturb one‑carbon metabolism. Expression of the cytoplasmic isoform of serine hydroxymethyltransferase was unaffected by HCU but the mitochondrial isoform was repressed indicating differential regulation of one‑carbon metabolism in different sub-cellular compartments. All HCU-induced changes in enzyme expression were completely reversed by either betaine or taurine treatment. Collectively, our data show significant alterations of polyamine, folate and methionine cycle metabolism in HCU hepatic tissues that in some cases, differ significantly from those observed in plasma, and have the potential to contribute to multiple aspects of pathogenesis.

Identification, characterization and expression analyses of cholinesterases genes in Yesso scallop (Patinopecten yessoensis) reveal molecular function allocation in responses to ocean acidification

Cholinesterases are key enzymes in central and peripheral cholinergic nerve system functioning on nerve impulse transmission in animals. Though cholinesterases have been identified in most vertebrates, the knowledge about the variable numbers and multiple functions of the genes is still quite meagre in invertebrates, especially in scallops. In this study, the complete cholinesterase (ChE) family members have been systematically characterized in Yesso scallop (Patinopecten yessoensis) via whole-genome scanning through in silico analysis. Ten ChE family members in the genome of Yesso scallop (designated PyChEs) were identified and potentially acted to be the largest number of ChE in the reported species to date. Phylogenetic and protein structural analyses were performed to determine the identities and evolutionary relationships of these genes. The expression profiles of PyChEs were determined in all developmental stages, in healthy adult tissues, and in mantles under low pH stress (pH 6.5 and 7.5). Spatiotemporal expression suggested the ubiquitous functional roles of PyChEs in all stages of development, as well as general and tissue-specific functions in scallop tissues. Regulation expressions revealed diverse up- and down-regulated expression patterns at most time points, suggesting different functional specialization of gene superfamily members in response to ocean acidification (OA). Evidences in gene number, phylogenetic relationships and expression patterns of PyChEs revealed that functional innovations and differentiations after gene duplication may result in altered functional constraints among PyChEs gene clusters. Collectively, our results provide the potential clues that the selection pressures coming from the environment were the potential inducement leading to function allocation of ChE family members in scallop.

Trans-2-enoyl-CoA reductase limits Ca2+ accumulation in the endoplasmic reticulum by inhibiting the Ca2+ pump SERCA2b

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) contains various enzymes that metabolize fatty acids (FAs). Given that FAs are the components of membranes, FA metabolic enzymes might be associated with regulation of ER membrane functions. However, it remains unclear whether there is the interplay between FA metabolic enzymes and ER membrane proteins. Trans-2-enoyl-CoA reductase (TER) is an FA reductase present in the ER membrane and catalyzes the last step in the FA elongation cycle and sphingosine degradation pathway. Here we identify sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca²⁺-ATPase 2b (SERCA2b), an ER Ca²⁺ pump responsible for Ca²⁺ accumulation in the ER, as a TER-binding protein by affinity purification from HEK293 cell lysates. We show that TER directly binds to SERCA2b by in vitro assays using recombinant proteins. Thapsigargin, a specific SERCA inhibitor, inhibits this binding. TER binds to SERCA2b through its conserved C-terminal region. TER overexpression suppresses SERCA2b ATPase activity in microsomal membranes of HEK293 cells. Depletion of TER increases Ca²⁺ storage in the ER and accelerates SERCA2b-dependent Ca²⁺ uptake to the ER after ligand-induced Ca²⁺ release. Moreover, depletion of TER reduces the Ca²⁺-dependent nuclear translocation of nuclear factor of activated T cells 4. These results demonstrate that TER is a negative regulator of SERCA2b, implying the direct linkage of FA metabolism and Ca²⁺ accumulation in the ER.

Differential regulation of cytochrome P450 genes associated with biosynthesis and detoxification in bifenthrin-resistant populations of navel orangewom (Amyelois transitella)

Pyrethroid resistance was first reported in 2013 for the navel orangeworm, Amyelois transitella, but the genetic underpinnings of pyrethroid resistance are unknown. We investigated the role of cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (P450s) belonging to the CYP3 and CYP4 clans using colonies derived from individuals collected in 2016 from almond orchards in two counties. One colony (ALM) originated from an almond orchard in Madera County with no reported pyrethroid resistance and the second colony (R347) originated from the same Kern County orchard where pyrethroid resistance was first reported. We used high-throughput quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) analyses of 65 P450s in the CYP3 and CYP4 clans of A. transitella to identify P450s induced by bifenthrin and associated with pyrethroid resistance. Nine P450s were constitutively overexpressed in R347 compared to ALM, including CYP6AE54 (11.7-fold), belonging to a subfamily associated with metabolic pesticide detoxification in Lepidoptera and CYP4G89 (33-fold) belonging to a subfamily associated with cuticular hydrocarbon (CHC) synthesis and resistance via reduced pesticide penetrance. Cuticular hydrocarbons analysis revealed that R347 produced twice as many total CHCs in the egg and adult stages as ALM. Topical toxicity bioassays for R347 determined that egg mortality was reduced at low bifenthrin concentrations and larval mortality was reduced at high concentrations of bifenthrin compared to ALM. Our discovery of both changes in metabolism and production of CHCs for R347 have implications for the possible decreased efficacy of other classes of insecticide used to control this insect. The threat of widespread pyrethroid resistance combined with the potential for cross-resistance to develop through the mechanism of reduced penetrance warrants developing management strategies that facilitate insecticide passage across the cuticle.

Effects of electrotactic exercise and antioxidant EUK-134 on oxidative stress relief in Caenorhabditis elegans

Antioxidant uptake and regular exercise are two well-acknowledged measures used for rejuvenation and oxidative stress elimination. Previous studies have revealed that moderate exercise mildly increases intracellular signaling oxidant levels and strengthens the ability of an organism to deal with escalating oxidative stress by upregulating antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase. Antioxidant supplementation directly scavenges intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) to reduce oxidative stress. However, research to understand the impacts of these enzymes on mitigating oxidative stress from the perspective of simple animals is limited. Herein, we show that exercise combined with antioxidant supplementation ameliorates the physiological phenotypes and markers of aging in wild-type and SOD/CAT-deficient Caenorhabditis elegans. We discovered that treated wild-type and gene-deficient worms show better survivorship, reproduction, and motility compared with their control counterparts. Assays of biochemical indices revealed that variations in sod-3 expression under different stress levels imply an inducible enzyme response resulting from exercise training and antioxidant supplementation. In addition, induced ROS resistance obtained from any type of treatment could persist for several days even after treatment cessation, thus suggesting a potential long-term antioxidative stress effect. Our findings confirm that exercise, antioxidant supplementation, and their combination could significantly improve the ability of C. elegans to withstand adverse stress. Our observations provide promising insights into future therapies of anti-oxidative stress in higher animals.

Cudratricusxanthone A Inhibits Lipid Accumulation and Expression of Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase in 3T3-L1 Preadipocytes

Cudratricusxanthone A (CTXA) is a natural bioactive compound extracted from the roots of Cudrania tricuspidata Bureau and has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, and hepatoprotective activities. However, at present, anti-adipogenic and anti-inflammatory effects of CTXA on adipocytes remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the effects of CTXA on lipid accumulation and expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2, two known inflammatory enzymes, in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. Strikingly, CTXA at 10 µM markedly inhibited lipid accumulation and reduced triglyceride (TG) content during 3T3-L1 preadipocyte differentiation with no cytotoxicity. On mechanistic levels, CTXA at 10 µM suppressed not only expression levels of CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein-α (C/EBP-α), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ), fatty acid synthase (FAS), and perilipin A, but also phosphorylation levels of signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 (STAT-3) and STAT-5 during 3T3-L1 preadipocyte differentiation. In addition, CTXA at 10 µM up-regulated phosphorylation levels of cAMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) while down-regulating expression and phosphorylation levels of acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) during 3T3-L1 preadipocyte differentiation. Moreover, CTXA at 10 µM greatly attenuated tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α-induced expression of iNOS, but not COX-2, in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. These results collectively demonstrate that CTXA has strong anti-adipogenic and anti-inflammatory effects on 3T3-L1 cells through control of the expression and phosphorylation levels of C/EBP-α, PPAR-γ, FAS, ACC, perilipin A, STAT-3/5, AMPK, and iNOS.

Sulfatase 1 mediates IL-10-induced dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase-1 expression and antiproliferative effects in vascular smooth muscle cells of spontaneously hypertensive rats

The extracellular sulfatases (exSulfs) sulfatase 1 (Sulf1) and sulfatase 2 (Sulf2) are well-known regulators of cell signaling and metabolism. In addition, exSulfs mediate the up- or downregulatory effects of cytokines on angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced expression of hypertensive mediators in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) from spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). Previously, we demonstrated that interleukin-10 (IL-10)-induced dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase-1 (DDAH-1) expression was mediated by Ang II subtype 2 receptor (AT2 R) and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation, and that IL-10-mediated inhibition of Ang II-induced proliferation of SHRs VSMC was partially associated with DDAH-1. In this study, we examined the effects of exSulfs on IL-10-induced DDAH-1 expression, abrogation of Ang II-induced DDAH-1 downregulation, and inhibition of Ang II-induced proliferation of SHRs VSMC. IL-10-induced DDAH-1 expression and abrogation of Ang II-induced DDAH-1 downregulation were attenuated in Sulf1 siRNA-transfected SHRs VSMC. However, Sulf2 did not affect IL-10-induced DDAH-1 expression and abrogation of Ang II-induced DDAH-1 downregulation. Downregulation of Sulf1 inhibited IL-10-induced AT2 R expression and the synergistic effects of IL-10 on Ang II-induced AT2 R expression. Additionally, Sulf1 downregulation inhibited IL-10-induced AMPK activity and abrogation of Ang II-induced decrease in AMPK activity. Moreover, the IL-10-mediated inhibition of Ang II-induced proliferation was not detected in Sulf1 siRNA-transfected SHRs VSMC; IL-10-mediated inhibition of Ang II-induced VSMC proliferation was mediated via the AT2 R pathway and AMPK activation. Specifically, IL-10-induced DDAH-1 expression, abrogation of Ang II-induced DDAH-1 downregulation, and inhibition of Ang II-induced proliferation, which is mediated by the AT2 R pathway and AMPK activation, are mainly mediated by Sulf1 activity in SHRs VSMC. These results suggest that Sulf1, and not Sulf2, mediates the IL-10-induced inhibition of Ang II-induced hypertensive effects in SHRs VSMC.

The establishment of a novel high-throughput screening system using RNA-guided genome editing to identify chemicals that suppress aldosterone synthase expression

Aldosterone is synthesized in the adrenal by the aldosterone synthase CYP11B2. Although the control of CYP11B2 expression is important to maintain the mineral homeostasis, its overexpression induced by the depolarization-induced calcium (Ca2+) signaling activation has been reported to increase the synthesis of aldosterone in primary aldosteronism (PA). The drug against PA focused on the suppression of CYP11B2 expression has not yet been developed, since the molecular mechanism of CYP11B2 transcriptional regulation activated via Ca2+ signaling remains unclear. To address the issue, we attempted to reveal the mechanism of the transcriptional regulation of CYP11B2 using chemical screening. We generated a cell line by inserting Nanoluc gene as a reporter into CYP11B2 locus in H295R adrenocortical cells using the CRSPR/Cas9 system, and established the high-throughput screening system using the cell line. We then identified 9 compounds that inhibited the CYP11B2 expression induced by potassium-mediated depolarization from the validated compound library (3399 compounds). Particularly, tacrolimus, an inhibitor of phosphatase calcineurin, strongly suppressed the CYP11B2 expression even at 10 nM. These results suggest that the system is effective in identifying drugs that suppress the depolarization-induced CYP11B2 expression. Our screening system may therefore be a useful tool for the development of novel medicines against PA.

Effects of nutrient restriction and melatonin supplementation from mid-to-late gestation on maternal and fetal small intestinal carbohydrase activities in sheep

The objective of this experiment was to evaluate the effects of nutrient restriction and melatonin supplementation during mid-to-late gestation on maternal and fetal small intestinal carbohydrase activities in sheep. Ewes were randomly assigned to one of 4 dietary treatments arranged in a 2 × 2 factorial design. Ewes were fed to provide 100% (adequate; ADQ) or 60% (restricted; RES) of nutrient recommendations, and diets were supplemented with either no melatonin (control; CON) or 5 mg melatonin/d (melatonin; MEL). This resulted in 4 treatment groups: CON-ADQ (n = 7), CON-RES (n = 8), MEL-ADQ (n = 8), MEL-RES (n = 8). Treatments began on day 50 of gestation, and ewes were euthanized on day 130 for tissue collection. The maternal and fetal small intestine were collected and assayed for small intestinal carbohydrase activities. Data were analyzed using the GLM procedure of SAS with fetal sex, melatonin, nutrition, and the melatonin by nutrition interaction included in the model statement. There were no melatonin by nutrition interactions for maternal or fetal small intestinal protein concentration or carbohydrase activities (P ≥ 0.11). Dietary melatonin supplementation decreased (P = 0.03) maternal small intestinal protein concentration by 22.7% and increased (P = 0.03) maternal small intestinal glucoamylase, isomaltase, and maltase activity per gram protein by 45.5%, 41.3%, and 40.6%, respectively. Nutrient restriction from mid-to-late gestation did not influence (P ≥ 0.46) maternal small intestinal protein concentration, or maltase, isomaltase, and lactase activity. Maternal glucoamylase activity per gram intestine increased (P = 0.05) with nutrient restriction by 49.1%. Melatonin supplementation and maternal nutrient restriction did not influence (P ≥ 0.15) fetal small intestinal protein concentration, or glucoamylase, isomaltase, and lactase activity. Maternal nutrient restriction from mid-to-late gestation decreased (P = 0.05) fetal maltase activity per gram intestine by 20.5% but did not influence fetal maltase activity per gram protein. These data indicate that some maternal and fetal carbohydrases are influenced by nutrient restriction and melatonin supplementation in sheep. More information is needed to understand how nutritional and hormonal factors regulate digestive enzyme activity in ruminants to design improved maternal nutrition programs to optimize fetal growth and development while maintaining maternal productivity.

Roflumilast Suppresses Adipogenic Differentiation via AMPK Mediated Pathway

Obesity and related disorders have increasingly become global health problems over the years. In recent years, obesity has been recognized as the most important risk factor for a variety of diseases including cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, steatohepatitis, and cancer. The medical anti-obesity treatment is to intervene in the metabolic process of adipocytes by suppressing adipogenesis and promoting lipolysis. The Phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4) pathway is involved in fat mass control and metabolic regulation. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of Roflumilast, a selective PDE4 inhibitor, on the differentiation of 3T3-L1 cells and the high fat diet-induced obesity in mice. We showed that treatment with Roflumilast inhibited lipid accumulation and triglycerides storage in mature 3T3-L1 cells, suggesting that Roflumilast suppressed adipogenesis. Mechanistically, we found that Roflumilast decreased the differentiation-induced expression of the adipogenesis genes including SREBP1C, FABP4, and Glut4, as well as their regulators including PPAR-γ and C/EBPα. Moreover, we proved that the effect of Roflumilast was dependent on the activation of the metabolic regulator AMPKα. The treatment with Roflumilast remarkably decreased the animals' body weight, visceral adipose tissue weight, and adipocyte size in high fat diet-induced obese mice. In conclusion, our study revealed that Roflumilast suppressed adipogenesis and promoted lipolysis in cell culture and mice models via AMPK-mediated inhibition of PPAR-γ and C/EBPα. These findings imply roflumilast could have therapeutic potential in obesity-related diseases.

Cucurbitacin B Diminishes Metastatic Behavior of Cholangiocarcinoma Cells by Suppressing Focal Adhesion Kinase

OBJECTIVE

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a malignant tumor with aggressive metastatic property resulted from dysregulation of metastasis-regulated signaling pathways. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of cucurbitacin B on metastatic behavior of CCA cells through modulation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) protein.

METHODS

KKU-452 cells were treated with a specific FAK inhibitor, FAK inhibitor-14, or cucurbitacin B at various concentrations for 24 h. Cell viability was assessed by sulforhodamine B assay. The migratory and invasive abilities of the cells were investigated using wound healing and transwell invasion assays, respectively. The fibronectin-coated plate was used for adhesion assay. The effects of the test compounds on FAK activation and the expression of metastasis-associated proteins were determined by Western blot analysis. The amount of MMP-9 was evaluated using a commercial ELISA Kit.

RESULTS

FAK inhibitor-14 and cucurbitacin B at concentrations which minimally affected KKU-452 cell viability could suppress FAK activation, evidently by decreased level of phospho-FAK protein after exposure to the compound. At these conditions, cucurbitacin B suppressed metastatic behavior including migration, invasion and adhesion abilities of CCA cells similar to FAK inhibitor-14. Further molecular studies demonstrated that FAK inhibitor-14 and cucurbitacin B downregulated the expression of metastasis-associated proteins including MMP-9, ICAM-1 and VEGF. Consequently, exposure to cucurbitacin B inhibited the production of MMP-9 enzyme in CCA cells similar to FAK inhibitor-14 treatment.

CONCLUSION

FAK participated in regulation of metastatic behavior of KKU-452 CCA cells. Cucurbitacin B suppressed FAK activation in the cells which was associated with inhibition of metastasis essential steps and their related metastatic proteins. The compound may be developed as a novel therapeutic agent for CCA metastasis therapy.
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