Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) immunolocalization in paraffin sections: an index of cell proliferation with evidence of deregulated expression in some neoplasms

Melatonin: Current evidence on protective and therapeutic roles in gynecological diseases

Melatonin, a potent antioxidant and free radical scavenger, has been demonstrated to be effective in gynecological conditions and female reproductive cancers. This review consolidates the accumulating evidence on melatonin's multifaceted protective effects in different pathological contexts. In gynecological conditions such as endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and uterine leiomyoma, melatonin has shown promising effects in reducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and hormonal imbalances. It inhibits adhesion molecules' production, and potentially mitigates leukocyte adherence and inflammatory responses. Melatonin's regulatory effects on hormone production and insulin sensitivity in PCOS individuals make it a promising candidate for improving oocyte quality and menstrual irregularities. Moreover, melatonin exhibits significant antitumor effects by modulating various signaling pathways, promoting apoptosis, and suppressing metastasis in breast cancers and gynecological cancers, including ovarian, endometrial, and cervical cancers. Furthermore, melatonin's protective effects are suggested to be mediated by interactions with its receptors, estrogen receptors and other nuclear receptors. The regulation of clock-related genes and circadian clock systems may also contribute to its inhibitory effects on cancer cell growth. However, more comprehensive research is warranted to fully elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms and establish melatonin as a potential therapeutic agent for these conditions.

Network pharmacology integrated with molecular docking reveals the anticancer mechanism of Jasminum sambac Linn. essential oil against human breast cancer and experimental validation by in vitro and in vivo studies

Jasminum sambac L. (J. sambac) belongs to the family Oleaceae and it is an ornamental subtropical evergreen shrub used in traditional treatments of certain ailments and diseases. This study aimed at devising an integrated strategy attempts to evaluate the bioactive components in the J. sambac essential oil (JEO) against human breast cancer. JEO extracted by distillation process and analyzed by GC-MS was subjected to screening of therapeutic components in their allegiance to the drug-likeness index. The utility and efficacy of its molecular mechanism relating to anticancer potential were probed with network pharmacology analysis. Gene ontology, pathway enrichment, and compound-target-pathway network by Cytoscape helped to harp on hub targets and pathways involved in curative action. Drawing from the network data, molecular docking analysis of selected compounds on breast cancer targets was approached. The anti-proliferative study was carried out in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 to evaluate the cytotoxicity of JEO. Finally, in vivo anticancer activity was verified using rat models. The results showed MDA-MB-231 cell growth was highly inhibited than the MCF-7 cell line. Alongside this in vitro trial, in situ effectiveness of JEO was evaluated using female Sprague-Dawley rat animal models. In vivo experiments and histopathological analysis showed convincing results in DMBA tumor-induced rats. The larger aim of this study is to identify the potential ingredients of the JEO in cancer apoptosis by integrating network pharmacology and experimental validation achieved to certain extent confers credence to the concept of hiring J. sambac as floral therapy in dealing with the disastrous disease.

Section Immunostaining for Protein Expression and Cell Proliferation Studies of Regenerating Fins

Adult zebrafish fins fully regenerate after resection, providing a highly accessible and remarkable vertebrate model of organ regeneration. Fin injury triggers wound epidermis formation and the dedifferentiation of injury-adjacent mature cells to establish an organized blastema of progenitor cells. Balanced cell proliferation and redifferentiation along with cell movements then progressively reestablish patterned tissues and restore the fin to its original size and shape. A mechanistic understanding of these coordinated cell behaviors and transitions requires direct knowledge of proteins in their physiological context, including expression, subcellular localization, and activity. Antibody-based staining of sectioned fins facilitates such high-resolution analyses of specific, native proteins. Therefore, such methods are mainstays of comprehensive, hypothesis-driven fin regeneration studies. However, section immunostaining requires labor-intensive, empirical optimization. Here, we present detailed, multistep procedures for antibody staining and co-detecting proliferating cells using paraffin and frozen fin sections. We include suggestions to avoid common pitfalls and to streamline the development of optimized, validated protocols for new and challenging antibodies.

Mouse Tspyl5 promotes spermatogonia proliferation through enhancing Pcna-mediated DNA replication

CONTEXT

The human TSPY1 (testis-specific protein, Y-linked 1) gene is critical for spermatogenesis and male fertility. However, there have been difficulties with studying the mechanism underlying its function, partly due to the presence of the Tspy1 pseudogene in mice.

AIMS

TSPYL5 (TSPY-like 5), an autosomal homologous gene of TSPY1 showing a similar expression pattern in both human and mouse testes, is also speculated to play a role in male spermatogenesis. It is beneficial to understand the role of TSPY1 in spermatogenesis by investigating Tspyl5 functions.

METHODS

Tspyl5 -knockout mice were generated to investigate the effect of TSPYL5 knockout on spermatogenesis.

KEY RESULTS

Tspyl5 deficiency caused a decline in fertility and decreased the numbers of spermatogonia and spermatozoa in aged male mice. Trancriptomic detection of spermatogonia derived from aged Tspyl5 -knockout mice revealed that the Pcna -mediated DNA replication pathway was downregulated. Furthermore, Tspyl5 was proven to facilitate spermatogonia proliferation and upregulate Pcna expression by promoting the ubiquitination-degradation of the TRP53 protein.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that Tspyl5 is a positive regulator for the maintenance of the spermatogonia pool by enhancing Pcna -mediated DNA replication.

IMPLICATIONS

This observation provides an important clue for further investigation of the spermatogenesis-related function of TSPY1 .

A comprehensive review on the decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-209)-induced male reproductive toxicity: Evidences from rodent studies

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), a class of brominated flame retardants (BFRs), are employed in various manufactured products to prevent fires, slow down their spread and reduce the resulting damages. Decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-209), an example of PBDEs, accounts for approximately 82 % of the total production of PBDEs. BDE-209 is a thyroid hormone (TH)-disrupting chemical owing to its structural similarity with TH. Currently, increase in the level of BDE-209 in biological samples has become a major issue because of its widespread use. BDE-209 causes male reproductive toxicity mainly via impairment of steroidogenesis, generation of oxidative stress (OS) and interference with germ cell dynamics. Further, exposure to this chemical can affect metabolic status, sperm concentration, epigenetic regulation of various developmental genes and integrity of blood-testis barrier in murine testis. However, the possible adverse effects of BDE-209 and its mechanism of action on the male reproductive health have not yet been critically evaluated. Hence, the present review article, with the help of available literature, aims to elucidate the reproductive toxicity of BDE-209 in relation to thyroid dysfunction in rodents. Further, several crucial pathways have been also highlighted in order to strengthen our knowledge on BDE-209-induced male reproductive toxicity. Data were extracted from scientific articles available in PubMed, Web of Science, and other databases. A thorough understanding of the risk assessment of BDE-209 exposure and mechanisms of its action is crucial for greater awareness of the potential threat of this BFR to preserve male fertility.

Immunotherapy of cytomegalovirus infection by low-dose adoptive transfer of antiviral CD8 T cells relies on substantial post-transfer expansion of central memory cells but not effector-memory cells

Cytomegaloviruses (CMVs) are host species-specific in their replication. It is a hallmark of all CMVs that productive primary infection is controlled by concerted innate and adaptive immune responses in the immunocompetent host. As a result, the infection usually passes without overt clinical symptoms and develops into latent infection, referred to as "latency". During latency, the virus is maintained in a non-replicative state from which it can reactivate to productive infection under conditions of waning immune surveillance. In contrast, infection of an immunocompromised host causes CMV disease with viral multiple-organ histopathology resulting in organ failure. Primary or reactivated CMV infection of hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) recipients in a "window of risk" between therapeutic hemato-ablative leukemia therapy and immune system reconstitution remains a clinical challenge. Studies in the mouse model of experimental HCT and infection with murine CMV (mCMV), followed by clinical trials in HCT patients with human CMV (hCMV) reactivation, have revealed a protective function of virus-specific CD8 T cells upon adoptive cell transfer (AT). Memory CD8 T cells derived from latently infected hosts are a favored source for immunotherapy by AT. Strikingly low numbers of these cells were found to prevent CMV disease, suggesting either an immediate effector function of few transferred cells or a clonal expansion generating high numbers of effector cells. In the murine model, the memory population consists of resting central memory T cells (TCM), as well as of conventional effector-memory T cells (cTEM) and inflationary effector-memory T cells (iTEM). iTEM increase in numbers over time in the latently infected host, a phenomenon known as 'memory inflation' (MI). They thus appeared to be a promising source for use in immunotherapy. However, we show here that iTEM contribute little to the control of infection after AT, which relies almost entirely on superior proliferative potential of TCM.

Gastrointestinal structure and function of preweaning dairy calves fed a whole milk powder or a milk replacer high in fat

The composition of milk replacer (MR) for calves greatly differs from that of bovine whole milk, which may affect gastrointestinal development of young calves. In this light, the objective of the current study was to compare gastrointestinal tract structure and function in response to feeding liquid diets having a same macronutrient profile (e.g., fat, lactose, protein) in calves in the first month of life. Eighteen male Holstein calves (46.6 ± 5.12 kg; 1.4 ± 0.50 d of age at arrival; mean ± standard deviation) were housed individually. Upon arrival, calves were blocked based on age and arrival day, and, within a block, calves were randomly assigned to either a whole milk powder (WP; 26% fat, DM basis, n = 9) or a MR high in fat (25% fat, n = 9) fed 3.0 L 3 times daily (9 L total per day) at 135 g/L through teat buckets. On d 21, gut permeability was assessed with indigestible permeability markers [chromium (Cr)-EDTA, lactulose, and d-mannitol]. On d 32 after arrival, calves were slaughtered. The weight of the total forestomach without contents was greater in WP-fed calves. Furthermore, duodenum and ileum weights were similar between treatment groups, but jejunum and total small intestine weights were greater in WP-fed calves. The surface area of the duodenum and ileum did not differ between treatment groups, but the surface area of the proximal jejunum was greater in calves fed WP. Urinary lactulose and Cr-EDTA recoveries were greater in calves fed WP in the first 6 h post marker administration. Tight junction protein gene expression in the proximal jejunum or ileum did not differ between treatments. The free fatty acid and phospholipid fatty acid profiles in the proximal jejunum and ileum differed between treatments and generally reflected the fatty acid profile of each liquid diet. Feeding WP or MR altered gut permeability and fatty acid composition of the gastrointestinal tract and further investigation are needed to understand the biological relevance of the observed differences.

Comparative Genomic Analysis of the Thiolase Family and Functional Characterization of the Acetyl-Coenzyme A Acyltransferase-1 Gene for Milk Biosynthesis and Production of Buffalo and Cattle

Cattle and buffalo served as the first and second largest dairy animals, respectively, providing 96% milk products worldwide. Understanding the mechanisms underlying milk synthesis is critical to develop the technique to improve milk production. Thiolases, also known as acetyl-coenzyme A acetyltransferases (ACAT), are an enzyme family that plays vital roles in lipid metabolism, including ACAT1, ACAT2, ACAA1, ACAA2, and HADHB. Our present study showed that these five members were orthologous in six livestock species including buffalo and cattle. Transcriptomic data analyses derived from different lactations stages showed that ACAA1 displayed different expression patterns between buffalo and cattle. Immunohistochemistry staining revealed that ACAA1 were dominantly located in the mammary epithelial cells of these two dairy animals. Knockdown of ACAA1 inhibited mammary epithelial cell proliferation and triglyceride and β-casein secretion by regulating related gene expressions in cattle and buffalo. In contrast, ACAA1 overexpression promoted cell proliferation and triglyceride secretion. Finally, three novel SNPs (g.-681A>T, g.-23117C>T, and g.-24348G>T) were detected and showed significant association with milk production traits of Mediterranean buffaloes. In addition, g.-681A>T mutation located in the promoter region changed transcriptional activity significantly. Our findings suggested that ACAA1 play a key role in regulating buffalo and cattle milk synthesis and provided basic information to further understand the dairy animal lactation physiology.

The Evolution of Ki-67 and Breast Carcinoma: Past Observations, Present Directions, and Future Considerations

The 1983 discovery of a mouse monoclonal antibody-the Ki-67 antibody-that recognized a nuclear antigen present only in proliferating cells represented a seminal discovery for the pathologic assessment of cellular proliferation in breast cancer and other solid tumors. Cellular proliferation is a central determinant of prognosis and response to cytotoxic chemotherapy in patients with breast cancer, and since the discovery of the Ki-67 antibody, Ki-67 has evolved as an important biomarker with both prognostic and predictive potential in breast cancer. Although there is universal recognition among the international guideline recommendations of the value of Ki-67 in breast cancer, recommendations for the actual use of Ki-67 assays in the prognostic and predictive evaluation of breast cancer remain mixed, primarily due to the lack of assay standardization and inconsistent inter-observer and inter-laboratory reproducibility. The treatment of high-risk ER-positive/human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2) negative breast cancer with the recently FDA-approved drug abemaciclib relies on a quantitative assessment of Ki-67 expression in the treatment decision algorithm. This further reinforces the urgent need for standardization of Ki-67 antibody selection and staining interpretation, which will hopefully lead to multidisciplinary consensus on the use of Ki-67 as a prognostic and predictive marker in breast cancer. The goals of this review are to highlight the historical evolution of Ki-67 in breast cancer, summarize the present literature on Ki-67 in breast cancer, and discuss the evolving literature on the use of Ki-67 as a companion diagnostic biomarker in breast cancer, with consideration for the necessary changes required across pathology practices to help increase the reliability and widespread adoption of Ki-67 as a prognostic and predictive marker for breast cancer in clinical practice.

The Field-Dependent Nature of PageRank Values in Citation Networks

The value of scientific research can be easier to assess at the collective level than at the level of individual contributions. Several journal-level and article-level metrics aim to measure the importance of journals or individual manuscripts. However, many are citation-based and citation practices vary between fields. To account for these differences, scientists have devised normalization schemes to make metrics more comparable across fields. We use PageRank as an example metric and examine the extent to which field-specific citation norms drive estimated importance differences. In doing so, we recapitulate differences in journal and article PageRanks between fields. We also find that manuscripts shared between fields have different PageRanks depending on which field's citation network the metric is calculated in. We implement a degree-preserving graph shuffling algorithm to generate a null distribution of similar networks and find differences more likely attributed to field-specific preferences than citation norms. Our results suggest that while differences exist between fields' metric distributions, applying metrics in a field-aware manner rather than using normalized global metrics avoids losing important information about article preferences. They also imply that assigning a single importance value to a manuscript may not be a useful construct, as the importance of each manuscript varies by the reader's field.

Determining the effects of in ovo administration of monosodium glutamate on the embryonic development of brain in chickens

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a popular flavor enhancer largely used in the food industry. Although numerous studies have reported the neurotoxic effects of MSG on humans and animals, there is limited information about how it affects embryonic brain development. Thus, this study aimed to determine the effects of in ovo administered MSG on embryonic brain development in chickens. For this purpose, 410 fertilized chicken eggs were divided into 5 groups as control, distilled water, 0.12, 0.6 and 1.2 mg/g egg MSG, and injections were performed via the egg yolk. On days 15, 18, and 21 of the incubation period, brain tissue samples were taken from all embryos and chicks. The mortality rates of MSG-treated groups were significantly higher than those of the control and distilled water groups. The MSG-treated groups showed embryonic growth retardation and various structural abnormalities such as abdominal hernia, unilateral anophthalmia, hemorrhage, brain malformation, and the curling of legs and fingers. The relative embryo and body weights of the MSG-treated groups were significantly lower than those of the control group on incubation days 18 and 21. Histopathological evaluations revealed that MSG caused histopathological changes such as necrosis, neuronophagia, and gliosis in brain on incubation days 15, 18, and 21. There was a significant increase in the number of necrotic neurons in the MSG-treated groups compared to the control and distilled water groups in the hyperpallium, optic tectum and hippocampus regions. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) positive cells in brain were found in the hyperpallium, optic tectum, and hippocampus regions; there were more PCNA(+) immunoreactive cells in MSG-treated groups than in control and distilled water groups. In conclusion, it was determined that in ovo MSG administered could adversely affect embryonic growth and development in addition to causing necrosis in the neurons in the developing brain.

Aquaporins in Reproductive System

AQP0-12, a total of 13 aquaporins are expressed in the mammalian reproductive system. These aquaporins mediate the transport of water and small solutes across biofilms for maintaining reproductive tract water balance and germ cell water homeostasis. These aquaporins play important roles in the regulation of sperm and egg cell production, maturation, and fertilization processes. Impaired AQP function may lead to diminished male and female fertility. This review focuses on the distribution, function, and regulation of AQPs throughout the male and female reproductive organs and tracts. Their correlation with reproductive success, revealing recent advances in the physiological and pathophysiological roles of aquaporins in the reproductive system.

Pendimethalin exposure induces bovine mammary epithelial cell death through excessive ROS production and alterations in the PI3K and MAPK signaling pathways

Herbicides are chemicals that have been established to have adverse impacts. However, they are still widely used in agriculture. Pendimethalin (PDM) is an herbicide that is widely used in many countries to control annual grasses. The possibility of livestock being exposed to PDM is relatively high, considering the half-life of PDM and its residues in water, soil and crops. However, the toxicity of PDM in cattle, especially in the mammary glands, has not been reported. Therefore, we investigated whether PDM has toxic effects in the mammary epithelial cells (MAC-T) of cattle. MAC-T cells were treated with various doses (0, 2.5, 5 and 10 μM) of PDM. We found that PDM affected cell viability and cell proliferation and causes cell cycle arrest. Furthermore, PDM triggered cell apoptosis, induced excessive ROS production and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) loss, and disrupted calcium homeostasis. In addition, PDM altered the activation of proteins associated with the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress response and modified PI3K and MAPK signaling cascades. In conclusion, our current study unveiled the mechanism of PDM in MAC-T cells and we suggest that PDM might be harmful to the mammary gland system of cattle, possibly affecting milk production.

Trilinolein, a Natural Triacylglycerol, Protects Cerebral Ischemia through Inhibition of Neuronal Apoptosis and Ameliorates Intimal Hyperplasia via Attenuation of Migration and Modulation of Matrix Metalloproteinase-2 and RAS/MEK/ERK Signaling Pathway in VSMCs

Cerebrovascular disease is one of the leading causes of disability and death worldwide, and seeking a potential treatment is essential. Trilinolein (TriL) is a natural triacylglycerol presented in several plants. The effects of TriL on cerebrovascular diseases such as cerebral ischemia and carotid stenosis have never been studied. Accordingly, we investigated the protection of TriL on cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) and vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) migration in vivo and in vitro. The cerebral infarction area, the intima to media area (I/M ratio), and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA)-staining of the carotid artery were measured. Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-BB-stimulated A7r5 cell migration and potential mechanisms of TriL were investigated by wound healing, transwell, and Western blotting. TriL (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg, p.o.) reduced: the cerebral infarction area; neurological deficit; TUNEL-positive apoptosis; intimal hyperplasia; and PCNA-positive cells in rodents. TriL (5, 10, and 20 µM) significantly inhibited PDGF-BB-stimulated A7r5 cell migration and reduced matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), Ras, MEK, and p-ERK protein levels in PDGF-BB-stimulated A7r5 cells. TriL is protective in models of I/R-induced brain injury, carotid artery ligation-induced intimal hyperplasia, and VSMC migration both in vivo and in vitro. TriL could be potentially efficacious in preventing cerebral ischemia and cerebrovascular diseases.

Khalaf AA, R. Zaki A, Mansour Khalifa M, A. Ibrahim M, M. Mekkawy A, E. Abdelrahman R, Farghali A, A. Noshy P. Hesperidin protects rats’ liver and kidney from oxidative damage and physiological disruption induced by nickel oxide nanoparticles

Background: Nickel oxide nanoparticles (NiO-NPs) have recently been utilized in various advanced industrial fields like lithium-ion micro batteries, nanofibers, electrochromic devices, and several biomedical applications. NiO-NPs are classified as extremely toxic substances as they can cause long-term harm to the environment and aquatic life. Moreover, frequent and prolonged exposure can affect human and animal health, causing skin allergies and major toxic consequences, such as hepatorenal toxicity. Hesperidin (HSP) has been proven to possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and free radical scavenging activities.

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the underlying protective mechanisms and effects of HSP against NiO-NPs-induced hepatorenal toxicities in rats.

Materials and Methods: Forty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 10 in each). The first group served as a Control group. For 8 weeks, the second group was administered NiO-NPs (100 mg/kg/day), and the third group was given HSP (100 mg/kg/day) via oral gavage for both groups. The fourth group received NiO-NPs and HSP concurrently in the same oral daily doses and duration as the second and third groups.

Results: NiO-NPs administration revealed a significant increase in plasma biomarkers of nephrotoxicity (urea, creatinine) and hepatotoxicity (ALT, AST) in NiO-NPs group compared to Control group (p < 0.05). In addition, NiO-NPs administration resulted in a substantial increase in malondialdehyde levels with a significant drop in catalase activity and GSH content in Group II. Also, a significant decreased expression of Nrf-2 and Bcl-2 mRNA levels and upregulation of TNF-α, NF-kβ and BAX in the liver and kidney of NiO-NPs group were also detected. Histologically, the liver and kidney of rats of NiO-NPs group showed significant histopathological disturbances, with a substantial increase in the proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) positive hepatocytes and renal tubular cells in the NiO-NPs group compared to Control and HSP groups (p < 0.05). In contrast, concomitant administration of HSP with NiO-NPs in group IV showed a significant biochemical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical improvement compared to NiO-NPs group.

Conclusion: Co-administration of HSP with NiO-NPs significantly ameliorated most of the NiO-NPs-induced hepatorenal toxicities in male rats.

MRNIP interacts with sex body chromatin to support meiotic progression, spermatogenesis, and male fertility in mice

Meiosis has a principal role in sexual reproduction to generate haploid gametes in both sexes. During meiosis, the cell nucleus hosts a dynamic environment where some genes are transcriptionally activated, and some are inactivated at the same time. This becomes possible through subnuclear compartmentalization. The sex body, sequestering X and Y chromosomes during male meiosis and creating an environment for the meiotic sex chromosome inactivation (MSCI) is one of the best known and studied subnuclear compartments. Herein, we show that MRNIP forms droplet-like accumulations that fuse together to create a distinct subnuclear compartment that partially overlaps with the sex body chromatin during diplotene. We demonstrate that Mrnip-/- spermatocytes have impaired DNA double-strand break (DSB) repair, they display reduced sex body formation and defective MSCI. We show that Mrnip-/- undergoes critical meiocyte loss at the diplotene stage. Furthermore, we determine that DNA DSBs (induced by SPO11) and synapsis initiation (facilitated by SYCP1) precede Mrnip expression in testes. Altogether, our findings indicate that in addition to an emerging role in DNA DSB repair, MRNIP has an essential function in spermatogenesis during meiosis I by forming drop-like accumulations interacting with the sex body.

Protective effects of menthol against sepsis-induced hepatic injury: Role of mediators of hepatic inflammation, apoptosis, and regeneration

Liver dysfunction in sepsis is a major complication that amplifies multiple organ failure and increases the risk of death. Inflammation and oxidative stress are the main mediators in the pathophysiology of sepsis. Therefore, we investigated the role of menthol, a natural antioxidant, against sepsis-induced liver injury in female Wistar rats. Sepsis was induced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). Menthol (100 mg/kg) was given intragastric 2 h after CLP. Blood samples and liver tissues were collected 24 h after surgery. Menthol significantly (p < 0.05) attenuated the sepsis-induced elevation in serum liver enzymes and improved the hepatic histopathological changes. Menthol treatment significantly (p < 0.05) decreased hepatic levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha, malondialdehyde, total nitrite, and cleaved caspase-3. It restored the hepatic levels of superoxide dismutase and reduced glutathione. Additionally, menthol significantly (p < 0.05) increased hepatic levels of B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2); an anti-apoptotic factor, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), a biomarker of regeneration and survival. Our results showed the therapeutic potential of menthol against liver injury induced by sepsis.

Effect of maternal curcumin supplementation on intestinal damage and the gut microbiota in male mice offspring with intra-uterine growth retardation

PURPOSE

The present study investigated whether maternal curcumin supplementation might protect against intra-uterine growth retardation (IUGR) induced intestinal damage and modulate gut microbiota in male mice offspring.

METHODS

In total, 36 C57BL/6 mice (24 females and 12 males, 6-8 weeks old) were randomly divided into three groups based on the diet before and throughout pregnancy and lactation: (1) normal protein (19%), (2) low protein (8%), and (3) low protein (8%) + 600 mg kg-1 curcumin. Offspring were administered a control diet until postnatal day 35.

RESULTS

Maternal curcumin supplementation could normalize the maternal protein deficiency-induced decrease in jejunal SOD activity (NP = 200.40 ± 10.58 U/mg protein; LP = 153.30 ± 5.51 U/mg protein; LPC = 185.40 ± 9.52 U/mg protein; P < 0.05) and T-AOC content (NP = 138.90 ± 17.51 U/mg protein; LP = 84.53 ± 5.42 U/mg protein; LPC = 99.73 ± 12.88 U/mg protein; P < 0.05) in the mice offspring. Maternal curcumin supplementation increased the maternal low protein diet-induced decline in the ratio of villus height-to-crypt depth (NP = 2.23 ± 0.19; LP = 1.90 ± 0.06; LPC = 2.56 ± 0.20; P < 0.05), the number of goblet cells (NP = 12.72 ± 1.16; LP = 7.04 ± 0.53; LPC = 13.10 ± 1.17; P < 0.05), and the ratio of PCNA-positive cells (NP = 13.59 ± 1.13%; LP = 2.42 ± 0.74%; LPC = 6.90 ± 0.96%; P < 0.05). It also reversed the maternal protein deficiency-induced increase of the body weight (NP = 13.00 ± 0.48 g; LP = 16.49 ± 0.75 g; LPC = 10.65 ± 1.12 g; P < 0.05), the serum glucose levels (NP = 5.32 ± 0.28 mmol/L; LP = 6.82 ± 0.33 mmol/L; LPC = 4.69 ± 0.35 mmol/L; P < 0.05), and the jejunal apoptotic index (NP = 6.50 ± 1.58%; LP = 10.65 ± 0.75%; LPC = 5.24 ± 0.71%; P < 0.05). Additionally, maternal curcumin supplementation enhanced the gene expression level of Nrf2 (NP = 1.00 ± 0.12; LP = 0.73 ± 0.10; LPC = 1.34 ± 0.12; P < 0.05), Sod2 (NP = 1.00 ± 0.04; LP = 0.85 ± 0.04; LPC = 1.04 ± 0.04; P < 0.05) and Ocln (NP = 1.00 ± 0.09; LP = 0.94 ± 0.10; LPC = 1.47 ± 0.09; P < 0.05) in the jejunum. Furthermore, maternal curcumin supplementation normalized the relative abundance of Lactobacillus (NP = 31.56 ± 6.19%; LP = 7.60 ± 2.33%; LPC = 17.79 ± 2.41%; P < 0.05) and Desulfovibrio (NP = 3.63 ± 0.93%; LP = 20.73 ± 3.96%; LPC = 13.96 ± 4.23%; P < 0.05), and the ratio of Firmicutes/Bacteroidota (NP = 2.84 ± 0.64; LP = 1.21 ± 0.30; LPC = 1.79 ± 0.15; P < 0.05). Moreover, Lactobacillus was positively correlated with the SOD activity, and it was negatively correlated with Il - 1β expression (P < 0.05). Desulfovibrio was negatively correlated with the SOD activity and the jejunal expression of Sod1, Bcl - 2, Card11, and Zo - 1 (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Maternal curcumin supplementation could improve intestinal integrity, oxidative status, and gut microbiota in male mice offspring with IUGR.

Memory CD8 T Cells Protect against Cytomegalovirus Disease by Formation of Nodular Inflammatory Foci Preventing Intra-Tissue Virus Spread

Cytomegaloviruses (CMVs) are controlled by innate and adaptive immune responses in an immunocompetent host while causing multiple organ diseases in an immunocompromised host. A risk group of high clinical relevance comprises transiently immunocompromised recipients of hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) in the “window of risk” between eradicative therapy of hematopoietic malignancies and complete reconstitution of the immune system. Cellular immunotherapy by adoptive transfer of CMV-specific CD8 T cells is an option to prevent CMV disease by controlling a primary or reactivated infection. While experimental models have revealed a viral epitope-specific antiviral function of cognate CD8 T cells, the site at which control is exerted remained unidentified. The observation that remarkably few transferred cells protect all organs may indicate an early blockade of virus dissemination from a primary site of productive infection to various target organs. Alternatively, it could indicate clonal expansion of a few transferred CD8 T cells for preventing intra-tissue virus spread after successful initial organ colonization. Our data in the mouse model of murine CMV infection provide evidence in support of the second hypothesis. We show that transferred cells vigorously proliferate to prevent virus spread, and thus viral histopathology, by confining and eventually resolving tissue infection within nodular inflammatory foci.

Refining the Mechanism of Drug-Influenced Gingival Enlargement and Its Management

Drug-influenced gingival enlargement (DIGE) or overgrowth manifests as abnormal enlargement of the gingiva due to an adverse effect of certain drug reactions in patients treated with anticonvulsants, immunosuppressants, or calcium channel blockers (CCBs). As the gingival enlargement became significant, it may interfere with the normal oral hygiene measures, aesthetics, as well as masticatory functions of the patients. The exact mechanism of how this undesirable condition develops is yet unknown, and complicated, with non-inflammatory and inflammatory pathways involved. This review illuminates these putative pathways of DIGE and highlights various treatment approaches based on existing research and current observations.

Intrauterine hyponutrition reduces fetal testosterone production and postnatal sperm count in the mouse

Although intrauterine hyponutrition is regarded as a risk factor for the development of "testicular dysgenesis syndrome" (TDS) in the human, underlying mechanism(s) remain largely unknown. To clarify the underlying mechanism(s), we fed vaginal plug-positive C57BL/6N female mice with regular food ad libitum throughout the pregnant course (control females) (C-females) or with 50% of the mean daily intake of the C-females from 6.5 dpc (calorie-restricted females) (R-females), and compared male reproductive findings between 17.5-dpc-old male mice delivered from C-females (C-fetuses) and those delivered from R-females (R-fetuses) and between 6-week-old male mice born to C-females (C-offspring) and those born to R-females (R-offspring). Compared with the C-fetuses, the R-fetuses had (1) morphologically normal external genitalia with significantly reduced anogenital distance index, (2) normal numbers of testicular component cells, and (3) significantly low intratesticular testosterone, in association with significantly reduced expressions of steroidogenic genes. Furthermore, compared with the C-offspring, the R-offspring had (1) significantly increased TUNEL-positive cells and normal numbers of other testicular component cells, (2) normal intratesticular testosterone, in association with normal expressions of steroidogenic genes, (3) significantly reduced sperm count, and normal testis weight and sperm motility, and (4) significantly altered expressions of oxidation stress-related, apoptosis-related, and spermatogenesis-related genes. The results, together with the previous data including the association between testosterone deprivation and oxidative stress-evoked apoptotic activation, imply that reduced fetal testosterone production is the primary underlying factor for the development of TDS in intrauterine hyponutrition, and that TDS is included in the clinical spectrum of Developmental Origins of Health and Disease.

6-OH-BDE-47 inhibited proliferation of skin fibroblasts from pygmy killer whale by inducing cell cycle arrest

Hydroxylated polybrominated diphenyl ethers (OH-BDEs) are major transformation products of PBDEs that readily bioaccumulate in the marine food web. Although 6-OH-BDE-47 is frequently and abundantly detected in cetaceans, its potential toxic effects are largely unknown. We explored the toxicological pathways and mechanisms of OH-BDEs by exposing pygmy killer whale skin fibroblast cell lines (PKW-LWHT) to 6-OH-BDE-47 at concentrations ranging from 0.02, 0.2, 2 to 4 μM. The result showed that 6-OH-BDE-47 inhibited cell proliferation in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. The cell cycle data revealed that the cell cycle was arrest at the G0/G1 phase by 6-OH-BDE-47. Using qPCR and Western blot assay, we found that 6-OH-BDE-47 up-regulated the transcription and expression level of p21 and RB1 and down-regulated the expression level of Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen (PCNA), CDK2, CDK4, cyclin D1, cyclin E2, E2F1, and E2F3 and the cellular phosphorylated RB1. The results showed that 6-OH-BDE-47 was able to arrest the cell cycle of PKW-LWHT cells at G1 phase by changing the expression level of related regulatory genes in G1 stage, and finally inhibit cell proliferation.

Comparative Study between Curcumin and Nanocurcumin Loaded PLGA on Colon Carcinogenesis Induced Mice

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer. Because curcumin (CUR) has anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties, research has been undertaken to indicate that nanocurcumin compounds can be used to treat a variety of cancers. CUR in nanoform has been found to have a stronger effect than conventional CUR. The purpose of this study was to show that CUR-loaded poly lactic-co-glycolic acid nanoparticles (PLGA) (CUR-loaded PLGA) have anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects on colon carcinogenesis in male dimethyl hydrazine (DMH) mice as a comparative study between the nanoform of curcumin and normal curcumin, focusing on the anticancer effect of nanocurcumin. Mice were separated into six groups: No treatment was given to Group I (negative Group-I). Group II was treated with CUR. Group III was treated with CUR-loaded PLGA. Group IV was treated with DMH. Group V received DMH and curcumin. Group VI received DMH and CUR-loaded PLGA. At the conclusion of the trial, the animals were slain (6 weeks). Inflammatory indicators and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels all changed significantly in this study, as the following inflammatory markers as TNF showed percent of change compared to the DMH group. Recovery percentage for Groups V and VI, respectively, were 9.18 and 55.31%. In addition, IL1 was 7.45 and 50.37% for Groups V and VI, respectively. The results of IL6 were 4.86 and 25.79% for Groups V and VI, respectively. The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) recovery percent was 16.98 and 45.12% for Groups V and VI, respectively. Following the effect of DMH on colon mucosa shape, the researchers looked at the effect of CUR-loaded PLGA on colon histology. It was shown that CUR-loaded PLGA affects the cell cycle and PCNA expression. We conclude that nanocurcumin is an important anti-inflammatory and cancer-fighting agent.

Ex Vivo Human Colon Tissue Exposure to Pristine Graphene Activates Genes Involved in the Binding, Adhesion and Proliferation of Epithelial Cells

Toxicology studies on pristine graphene are limited and lack significant correlations with actual human response. The goal of the current study was to determine the response of total colonic human tissue to pristine graphene exposure. Biopsy punches of colon tissues from healthy human were used to assess the biological response after ex vivo exposure to graphene at three different concentrations (1, 10, and 100 µg/mL). mRNA expression of specific genes or intestinal cytokine abundance was assessed using real-time PCR or multiplex immunoassays, respectively. Pristine graphene-activated genes that are related to binding and adhesion (GTPase and KRAS) within 2 h of exposure. Furthermore, the PCNA (proliferating cell nuclear antigen) gene was upregulated after exposure to graphene at all concentrations. Ingenuity pathway analysis revealed that STAT3 and VEGF signaling pathways (known to be involved in cell proliferation and growth) were upregulated. Graphene exposure (10 µg/mL) for 24 h significantly increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines IFNγ, IL-8, IL-17, IL-6, IL-9, MIP-1α, and Eotaxin. Collectively, these results indicated that graphene may activate the STAT3-IL23-IL17 response axis. The findings in this study provide information on toxicity evaluation using a human-relevant ex vivo colon model and serve as a basis for further exploration of its bio-applications.

Protective prospects of eco-friendly synthesized selenium nanoparticles using Moringa oleifera or Moringa oleifera leaf extract against melamine induced nephrotoxicity in male rats

Nanotechnology is used in a wide range of applications, including medical therapies that precisely target disease prevention and treatment. The current study aimed firstly, to synthesize selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) in an eco-friendly manner using Moringa oleifera leaf extract (MOLE). Secondly, to compare the protective effects of green-synthesized MOLE-SeNPs conjugate and MOLE ethanolic extract as remedies for melamine (MEL) induced nephrotoxicity in male rats. One hundred and five male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into seven groups (n = 15), including 1st control, 2nd MOLE (800 mg/kg BW), 3rd SeNPs (0.5 mg/kg BW), 4th MOLE-SeNPs (200 μg/kg BW), 5th MEL (700 mg/kg BW), 6th MEL+MOLE, and 7th MEL+MOLE SeNPs. All groups were orally gavaged day after day for 28 days. SeNPs and the colloidal SeNPs were characterized by TEM, SEM, and DLS particle size. SeNPs showed an absorption peak at a wavelength of 530 nm, spherical shape, and an average size between 3.2 and 20 nm. Colloidal SeNPs absorption spectra were recorded between 400 and 700 nm with an average size of 3.3-17 nm. MEL-induced nephropathic alterations represented by a significant increase in serum creatinine, urea, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), renal TNFα, oxidative stress-related indices, and altered the relative mRNA expression of apoptosis-related genes Bax, Caspase-3, Bcl2, Fas, and FasL. MEL-induced array of nephrotoxic morphological changes, and up-regulated immune-expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and proliferation-associated nuclear antigen Ki-67. Administration of MOLE or MOLE-SeNPs significantly reversed MEL-induced renal function impairments, oxidative stress, histological alterations, modulation in the relative mRNA expression of apoptosis-related genes, and the immune-expression of renal PCNA and Ki-67. Conclusively, the green-synthesized MOLE-SeNPs and MOLE display nephron-protective properties against MEL-induced murine nephropathy. This study is the first to report these effects which were more pronounced in the MOLE group than the green biosynthesized MOLE-SeNPs conjugate group.

Neurogenesis and the development of neural sex differences in vocal control regions of songbirds

The brain regions that control the learning and production of song and other learned vocalizations in songbirds exhibit some of the largest sex differences in the brain known in vertebrates and are associated with sex differences in singing behavior. Song learning takes place through multiple stages: an early sensory phase when song models are memorized, followed by a sensorimotor phase in which auditory feedback is used to modify song output through subsong, plastic song, to adult crystalized song. However, how patterns of neurogenesis in these brain regions change through these learning stages, and differ between the sexes, is little explored. We collected brains from 63 young male and female zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata) over four stages of song learning. Using neurogenesis markers for cell division (proliferating cell nuclear antigen), neuron migration (doublecortin), and mature neurons (neuron-specific nuclear protein), we demonstrate that there are sex-specific changes in neurogenesis over song development that differ between the caudal motor pathway and anterior forebrain pathway of the vocal control circuit. In many of these regions, sex differences emerged very early in development, by 25 days post hatch, at the beginning of song learning. The emergence of sex differences in other components of the system was more gradual and had specific trajectories depending on the brain region and its function. In conclusion, we found that sex differences occurred early and continued during song learning. Moreover, transitions from the different phases of song development do not seem to depend on large changes in neurogenesis in the vocal control areas measured.

Ameliorative effect of N-acetylcysteine against glyphosate-induced hepatotoxicity in adult male albino rats: histopathological, biochemical, and molecular studies

Glyphosate (GLP) is the most commonly used herbicide that presents many hazards to the environment and living organisms. The present study aimed to explore hepatotoxic properties of GLP on adult albino rats, and the ability of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) to ameliorate these toxic effects. Thirty mature male albino rats were distributed into 3 groups (10 rats/group): Group I (C) a negative control, Group II (GLP) orally administered Roundup 0.8503 ml/kg/day which contain GLP (375 mg/kg) (1/10 of LD50) by gavage needle, and Group III (NAC+ GLP) received NAC (160 mg/kg, 1h before Roundup) by gavage needle and Roundup (0.8503 ml/kg) orally for 6 weeks. Blood and liver samples were collected and processed for biochemical, histopathological, ultrastructural, and immunohistochemical investigations. Group II displayed a significant elevation of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, as well as overexpression of apoptotic markers. The total antioxidant capacity "TAC" and mRNA expression of NRF2 were significantly decreased. Concerning the histopathological findings, there were various degenerative changes as the hepatocytes showed hydropic swelling with nuclear pyknosis. These alterations were confirmed ultrastructurally as most of the cytoplasmic organelles were lost and the mitochondria appeared to deteriorate. Immunohistochemical results showed intense immunoreactivity against proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and caspase-3. NAC administration before GLP partially ameliorates these alterations. ALT, AST, and MDA levels as well as expression of apoptotic markers were significantly reduced. TAC and mRNA expression of NRF2 were significantly increased. Histopathological alterations were partially improved as the hepatocytes returned normal and ultrastructurally they showed nearly normal cytoplasmic organelles. Additionally, the intense expression of PCNA and caspase-3 was significantly reduced. We concluded that NAC can ameliorate most of the adverse effects of GLP exposure through its antioxidant property and free radicals scavenging capacity.

The Immunohistochemical Expression of MCM-3, -5, and -7 Proteins in the Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are the most common mesenchymal uterine neoplasms; their prevalence is estimated in 40%–60% of women under 35 and in 70%–80% of women over 50 years of age. The current research aims to focus on the etiopathogenesis of uterine fibroids, the factors that affect their growth, and markers with diagnostic and prognostic properties. The MCM (minichromosome maintenance) protein family consists of peptides whose primary function is participation in the molecular mechanism of creating replication forks while regulating DNA synthesis. The aim of this work was to determine the proliferative potential of uterine fibroid cells based on the expression of the Ki-67 antigen and the MCMs—i.e., MCM-3, MCM-5, and MCM-7. In addition, the expression of estrogen (ER) and progesterone (PgR) receptors was evaluated and correlated with the expression of the abovementioned observations. Ultimately, received results were analyzed in terms of clinical and pathological data. Materials and methods: In forty-four cases of uterine fibroids, immunohistochemical reactions were performed. A tissue microarray (TMA) technique was utilized and analyzed cases were assessed in triplicate. Immunohistochemistry was performed using antibodies against Ki-67 antigen, ER, PgR, MCM-3, MCM-5, and MCM-8 on an automated staining platform. Reactions were digitalized by a histologic scanner and quantified utilizing dedicated software for nuclear analysis. Assessment was based on quantification expression of the three histiospots, each representing one case in TMA. Results: In the study group (uterine fibroids), statistically significant stronger expression of all the investigated MCMs was observed, as compared to the control group. In addition, moderate and strong positive correlations were found between all tested proliferative markers. The expression of the MCM-7 protein also correlated positively with ER and PgR. With regard to clinical and pathological data, there was a negative correlation between the expression of MCMs and the number of both pregnancies and births. Significant reductions in MCM-5 and MCM-7 expression were observed in the group of women receiving oral hormonal contraceptives, while smoking women showed an increase in MCM-7, ER, and PgR. Conclusions: Uterine fibroid cells have greater proliferative potential, as evaluated by expression of the Ki-67 antigen and MCMs, than unaltered myometrial cells of the uterine corpus. The expression of MCM-7 was found to have strong or moderate correlations in all assessed relations. In the context of the clinical data, as well evident proliferative potential of MCMs, further studies are strongly recommended.

Expression of thrombospondin-1 in conjunctival squamous cell carcinoma is correlated to the Ki67 index and associated with progression-free survival

PURPOSE

Conjunctival squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is primarily treated with surgical resection. SCC has various stages, and local recurrence is common. The purpose of this study was to investigate thrombospondin-1 expression and its association with prognosis.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, a gene expression array along with immunohistochemistry were performed for the evaluation of thrombospondin-1 expression, localization, as well as Ki67 labeling cell indices in carcinoma in situ (Tis) and advanced conjunctival SCC (Tadv). The presence or absence and intensity of cytoplasmic and nuclear staining in tumor cells were also divided into groups with a score of 0-3 and semi-quantitatively analyzed to investigate intracellular staining patterns. The association between thrombospondin-1 expression and tumor progression in a series of 31 conjunctival SCCs was further investigated.

RESULTS

All 31 patients in the cohort (100%) were East Asian. A simple comparison between Tis and Tadv demonstrated significant differences in expressions of 45 genes, including thrombospondin-1 (p < 0.01). In this cohort, 30/31 tumors were positive (96%) for thrombospondin-1. Furthermore, thrombospondin-1 intracellular staining pattern analysis scores were 2.12 and 0.96 for nuclear and cytoplasmic staining, respectively, with a significant difference observed between Tis and Tadv (p < 0.01). Alteration of the Ki67 labeling index was significantly correlated with that of the thrombospondin-1 cytoplasmic score (p = 0.030). Furthermore, univariate Cox regression analysis showed a significant correlation between thrombospondin-1 staining and progression-free survival (p = 0.026) and final orbital exenteration (p = 0.019).

CONCLUSIONS

The present results demonstrated that thrombospondin-1 is a potential molecular target in the pathology of conjunctival SCC, in addition to serving as a prognostic factor.

miR-1258 Attenuates Tumorigenesis Through Targeting E2F1 to Inhibit PCNA and MMP2 Transcription in Glioblastoma

MicroRNAs are a group of endogenous small non-coding RNAs commonly dysregulated in tumorigenesis, including glioblastoma (GBM), the most malignant brain tumor with rapid proliferation, diffuse invasion, and therapeutic resistance. Accumulating evidence has manifested that miR-1258 exerts an inhibitory role in many human cancers. However, the expression pattern of miR-1258 and its potential function in GBM tumorigenesis remain unclear. In this study, we reported that miR-1258 expression decreased with the ascending pathological grade of glioma, which indicated an unfavorable prognosis of patients. Functional assays revealed an inhibitory effect of miR-1258 on malignant proliferation, therapeutic resistance, migration, and invasion of GBM in vitro. Moreover, xenograft models also suggested a repression effect of miR-1258 on gliomagenesis. Mechanistically, miR-1258 directly targeted E2F1 in 3’-untranslated regions and attenuated E2F1-mediated downstream gene PCNA and MMP2 transcriptions. Furthermore, restoration of E2F1 expression in GBM cells effectively rescued the tumor-suppressive effect of miR-1258. Our studies illustrated that miR-1258 functioned as a tumor suppressor in GBM by directly targeting E2F1, subsequently inhibiting PCNA and MMP2 transcriptions, which contributed to new potential targets for GBM therapy and other E2F1-driven cancers.

JNK/Elk1 signaling and PCNA protein expression in the brain of hibernating frog Pelophylax esculentus

Mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation and neurogenesis are known to play a role in neuronal survival during hibernation. Herein, we investigate the activity of c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK) and Ets like-1 protein (Elk1) kinase involved in cell survival, as well as the expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), a cell proliferation marker, in the brain of the frog Pelophylax esculentus. The study was conducted on female and male frogs collected during the annual cycle. Our results demonstrated that JNK activity increased during the hibernating phase in relation to the active phase. Interestingly, P-Elk1 levels were positively correlated with P-JNK levels, suggesting that the JNK/Elk1 pathway is pivotal in mediating neuroprotective adaptations that are essential to successful hibernation. On the contrary, we detected higher PCNA expression levels during the active period compared with the hibernating period. A sex dimorphism was observed in the expression levels of P-JNK/P-Elk1 that were specifically higher in males, and in the expression of PCNA reporting higher levels in female brains. Much remains to be learned regarding the regulation of hibernation, however, our findings provide new insights into the role of MAPK and proliferative pathways in hibernation, adding new knowledge concerning the mechanisms activated in the brain of ectothermic species to counteract the damage resulting from extreme temperatures.

Ablation of Vti1a/1b Triggers Neural Progenitor Pool Depletion and Cortical Layer 5 Malformation in Late-embryonic Mouse Cortex

Cortical morphogenesis entails several neurobiological events, including proliferation and differentiation of progenitors, migration of neuroblasts, and neuronal maturation leading to functional neural circuitry. These neurodevelopmental processes are delicately regulated by many factors. Endosomal SNAREs have emerged as formidable modulators of neuronal growth, aside their well-known function in membrane/vesicular trafficking. However, our understanding of their influence on cortex formation is limited. Here, we report that the SNAREs Vti1a and Vti1b (Vti1a/1b) are critical for proper cortical development. Following null mutation of Vti1a/1b in mouse, the late-embryonic mutant cortex appeared dysgenic, and the cortical progenitors therein were depleted beyond normal. Notably, cortical layer 5 (L5) is distinctively disorganized in the absence of Vti1a/1b. The latter defect, coupled with an overt apoptosis of Ctip2-expressing L5 neurons, likely contributed to the substantial loss of corticospinal and callosal projections in the Vti1a/1b-deficient mouse brain. These findings suggest that Vti1a/1b serve key neurodevelopmental functions during cortical histogenesis, which when mechanistically elucidated, can lend clarity to how endosomal SNAREs regulate brain development, or how their dysfunction may have implications for neurological disorders.

A functional polymorphism of inhibin alpha subunit at miR-181b-1-3p-binding site regulates proliferation and apoptosis of chicken ovarian granular cells

INHA, the gene encoding the inhibin alpha subunit, was involved in folliculogenesis in mammals, but no study was reported for its working pathway in birds. Here we hypothesize that gene polymorphism in INHA 3'UTR might influence miRNAs binding efficiency and further affect the function of this gene. Thus, we investigated the association between the 3'UTR single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in INHA and the laying performance in chickens and further explore their possible molecular cascades in granulosa cells (GC). Five SNPs were detected in Tianfu green-shell layers and g. 22,178,975 G > A was significantly associated with total egg numbers at the age of 300 days (EN, n = 286). Birds carrying the AA genotype laid more EN than those with GG (P < 0.05). The allele transition from G to A in the 3'UTR of INHA gene destroyed a binding site which was targeted by miR-181b-1-3p. The expression abundances of INHA mRNA increased firstly and then decreased with follicle growing, and reached the top in the sixth largest pre-ovulation follicle, whereas miR-181b-1-3p levels in chicken pre-hierarchical follicles had the contrary tendency. Further studies indicated that high levels of miR-181b-1-3p increased apoptosis and reduced GC proliferation while miR-181b-1-3p inhibitors decreased apoptosis and promoted GC proliferation. Additionally, depression of INHA increased apoptosis and reduced GC proliferation via a caspase-3-dependent mitochondrial pathway. Generally, the mutation in INHA 3'UTR was tightly correlated with egg production in chickens, and blocked a binding site of miR-181b-1-3p. miR-181b-1-3p inhibited GC proliferation and promoted apoptosis by targeting INHA.

Tissue Engineered Vascular Graft Recipient Interleukin 10 Status Is Critical for Preventing Thrombosis

Tissue engineered vascular grafts (TEVGs) are a promising technology, but are hindered by occlusion. Seeding with bone-marrow derived mononuclear cells (BM-MNCs) mitigates occlusion, yet the precise mechanism remains unclear. Seeded cells disappear quickly and potentially mediate an anti-inflammatory effect through paracrine signaling. Here, a series of reciprocal genetic TEVG implantations plus recombinant protein treatment is reported to investigate what role interleukin-10, an anti-inflammatory cytokine, plays from both host and seeded cells. TEVGs seeded with BM-MNCs from wild-type and IL-10 KO mice, plus unseeded grafts, are implanted into wild-type and IL-10 KO mice. Wild-type mice with unseeded grafts also receive recombinant IL-10. Serial ultrasound evaluates occlusion and TEVGs are harvested at 14 d for immunohistochemical analysis. TEVGs in IL-10 KO mice have significantly higher occlusion incidence compared to wild-type mice attributed to acute (<3 d) thrombosis. Cell seeding rescues TEVGs in IL-10 KO mice comparable to wild-type patency. IL-10 from the host and seeded cells do not significantly influence graft inflammation and macrophage phenotype, yet IL-10 treatment shows interesting biologic effects including decreasing cell proliferation and increasing M2 macrophage polarization. IL-10 from the host is critical for preventing TEVG thrombosis and seeded BM-MNCs exert a significant anti-thrombotic effect in IL-10 KO mice.

Allicin can suppress the activity of vascular endothelial cells probably by regulating JAK2/STAT3 pathway

Whether allicin can suppress the angiogenesis via inhibiting the activity of vascular endothelial cells (VECs) in preventing epidural hypertrophic scars remains unknown. VECs were treated by allicin at a gradient of concentrations. Cell activity was measured by CCK-8 assay, scratch assay and flow cytometry. Reverse-transcription PCR and Western Blot were used to measure the expression levels of relevant genes and proteins. After treated with allicin at concentrations of 0, 25, 50 and 100 mg/L, the viability of VECs significantly decreased at 24 h (p < 0.001*) and 48 h (p < 0.001*), and migration rate significantly decreased in scratch assay (p = 0.017*) and in Transwell assay (p = 0.021*). As the concentrations of allicin increased, the apoptosis rate of VECs rose up (p = 0.018*). There was no significant difference on cell numbers at S phase (p = 0.25), but cell numbers at G1 phase decreased (p = 0.039*) and at G2 phase increased (p = 0.047*). With the increase of allicin concentrations, the ability of tube formation for VECs significantly decreased (p < 0.001*). Comparing with control group, the expression of PCNA and BCL-2 decreased (p < 0.001*), while the expression of BAX increased significantly (p < 0.001*). Regarding to JAK2/STAT3 pathway, the expression levels of JAK3 and STAT3 decreased significantly with the increase of allicin concentrations (p < 0.001*). Allicin can suppress the activity of VECs probably by regulating JAK2/STAT3 pathway.

A transient role of the ciliary gene Inpp5e in controlling direct versus indirect neurogenesis in cortical development

During the development of the cerebral cortex, neurons are generated directly from radial glial cells or indirectly via basal progenitors. The balance between these division modes determines the number and types of neurons formed in the cortex thereby affecting cortical functioning. Here, we investigate the role of primary cilia in controlling the decision between forming neurons directly or indirectly. We show that a mutation in the ciliary gene Inpp5e leads to a transient increase in direct neurogenesis and subsequently to an overproduction of layer V neurons in newborn mice. Loss of Inpp5e also affects ciliary structure coinciding with reduced Gli3 repressor levels. Genetically restoring Gli3 repressor rescues the decreased indirect neurogenesis in Inpp5e mutants. Overall, our analyses reveal how primary cilia determine neuronal subtype composition of the cortex by controlling direct versus indirect neurogenesis. These findings have implications for understanding cortical malformations in ciliopathies with INPP5E mutations.

Evaluation of the anti-oxidant effect of ascorbic acid on apoptosis and proliferation of germinal epithelium cells of rat testis following malathion-induced toxicity

Objective(s):

The aim of this study was to determine the protective role of ascorbic acid on apoptosis and proliferation of spermatogonia and primary spermatocyte cells after malathion administration as an organophosphate pesticide in rat testis.

Materials and Methods:

Thirty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups of 6 rats each, including control (no intervention), sham (normal saline 0.09%), malathion (50 mg/kg), malathion plus ascorbic acid (50 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg, respectively), and ascorbic acid (200 mg/kg) groups. Malathion and ascorbic acid were administrated via intraperitoneal injection once per day and seven times per week. After 6 weeks, animals were sacrificed, and testis tissue was used for evaluation of apoptosis and proliferation of germinal epithelium cells using the TUNEL and PCNA staining techniques.

Results:

The results of TUNEL staining showed that the numbers of apoptotic cells in spermatogonia and primary spermatocyte cells were significantly increased in the malathion 50 mg/kg group vs control group (P<0.001). Co-administration of malathion 50 mg/kg and ascorbic acid 200 mg/kg significantly decreased the apoptotic cells in both cell types in comparison with malathion 50 mg/kg group (P<0.001). The results of PCNA staining revealed that the proliferation of these cells was significantly decreased in malathion 50 mg/kg group vs control group (P<0.001), and malathion 50 mg/kg plus ascorbic acid 200 mg/kg administration increased the proliferation of cells compared with malathion 50 mg/kg group (P<0.001).

Conclusion:

The results provide evidence that ascorbic acid showed preventive effects on malathion-induced toxicity in male rat testis.

Evaluation of Cell Proliferation in Rat Mammary Glands Is Not Predictive of the Carcinogenic Potential of Insulin In Vivo

For nonclinical safety-assessment of insulin analogues in vivo, mitogenic effects are compared to that of human insulin. Besides histopathologic evaluation, this usually includes assessment of cell proliferation (CP) in mammary glands. Insulin analogue X10 is recommended as positive control, due to its known carcinogenic effect in rat mammary glands. Here, we discuss the mitogenic effect of insulin in vivo and use of X10 as positive control. We present results from 4 nonclinical rat studies evaluating effects of repeated dosing with insulin detemir (≤26 weeks) or degludec (52 weeks) in mammary glands. Studies included human insulin-dosed groups as comparators, CP, and histopathologic evaluation. One study included an X10-dosed group (26 weeks), another ≤3 weeks of dosing with X10 or human insulin evaluating effects of these comparators. Neither human insulin, insulin detemir, degludec, nor X10 induced mammary tumors or increased CP in the studies. The CP marker proliferating cell nuclear antigen varied within/between studies and was not correlated with the remaining markers or CP fluctuations during estrous cycle, whereas the other CP markers, Ki-67 and 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU), correlated with estrous cycle changes and each other. In conclusion, we propose that the mitogenic effect of insulin in rat mammary glands is weak in vivo. Cell proliferation evaluation in nonclinical safety assessment studies is not predictive of the carcinogenic potential of insulin, thus, the value of including this end point is debatable. Moreover, X10 is not recommended as positive control, due to lack of proliferative effects. Typical CP markers vary greatly in quality, BrdU seemingly most reliable.

Hepatoprotective, cytotoxic, antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of Dioon spinulosum leaves Dyer Ex Eichler and its isolated secondary metabolites

Given the lack of adequate research on Dioon spinulosum (D. spinulosum) Dyer Ex Eichler, this study was conducted focusing on different biological activities and phytochemical investigation of D. spinulosum for the first time. D. spinulosum showed strong protective activity against DNA damage and potent activity against VERO cell line. It also presented antimicrobial and hepatoprotective activity. Phytochemical investigation of the leaves resulted in isolation of two new flavonoids, apigenin 7-O-α-d-glucopyranoside (15) and amentoflavone 7-O-α-l-rhamnopyranoside (16), in addition to fifteen known compounds: phytone (1), trans-phytol (2), β-sitosterol (3), stigmasterol (4), oliveriflavone (5), 7,4',7″,4″'-tetramethylamentoflavone (6), 7,4',7''-trimethylamentoflavone (7), scaidopitysin (8), bilobetin (9), isoginkgetin (10), aromadendrin (11), sotusflavone (12), engeletin (14) and eriocitrin (17) for the first time together with amentoflavone (13). Compounds (11) and (13) displayed very strong cytotoxic activity and showed the highest protective activity against DNA damage.

Lycopene Inhibits Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition and Promotes Apoptosis in Oral Cancer via PI3K/AKT/m-TOR Signal Pathway

Background

Oral cancer (OC) is one of the most common cancers around the world. Despite the progress in treatment, the prognosis of OC remains poor, especially for patients with advanced diseases. It urges the development of novel therapeutic options against OC. Lycopene (LYC) is an antioxidant with chemoprotective properties against cancer. However, little is known about the mechanisms underlying the protective role of LYC in OC tumorigenesis.

Methods

In this study, we investigated the anti-cancer effect of LYC on the progression of OC in vitro and in vivo and explored the underlying mechanisms involved in this process.

Results

LYC inhibited OC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis, and xenograft tumor growth in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, we found that LYC might inhibit epithelial-mesenchymal transition and induce apoptosis in OC cells by deactivating the PI3K/AKT/m-TOR signaling through increasing the levels of E-cadherin and Bax and downregulating N-cadherin, p-PI3K, p-AKT, p-m-TOR, and bcl-2.

Conclusion

We reported for the first time that LYC exhibited anti-cancer effects on OC development both in vitro and in vivo via regulating EMT process and apoptosis. These findings provide support for the potential clinical use of LYC in OC treatment.

Characterization and anti-uterine tumor effect of extract from Prunella vulgaris L

BACKGROUND

The flowers and dried fruit spikes of Prunella vulgaris L. (P. vulgaris L.) have been widely used in traditional Chinese medicine and food. P. vulgaris L. is regarded as a good option for treating uterine myoma (UM). However, scientific evidence of anti-UM activity of the extract of P. vulgaris L. (PVE) is lacking. The present study aimed to characterize the chemical composition of PVE and evaluate the pharmacodynamics and mechanism of PVE against UM.

METHODS

The chemical composition of PVE was analyzed by GC-MS. MTT was used to screen and evaluate cell proliferation and toxicity. Double fluorescence flow cytometry method were used to determine the apoptosis and cell cycle progression of UM cells under PVE treatment. The anti-UM activity of PVE was investigated by using a specific-pathogen-free (SPF) rat model of UM. TUNEL staining was used to detect the apoptosis of UM cells. The concentrations of estrogen and progesterone in the serum of SPF rats were detected by ELISA. The expression levels of PCNA, estrogen receptor alpha, estrogen receptor beta, progesterone receptor, survivin, caspase-3, Bax and Bcl-2 in the uterus of SPF rats was detected by immunohistochemistry (IHC).

RESULTS

The extraction rate of PVE was 8.1%. The main components were squalene (28.3%), linoleic acid (9.96%), linolenic acid (9.95%), stearic acid (6.26%) and oleic acid (5.51%). In vitro, PVE had significant anti-human UM cell activity, exhibited no drug toxicity, promoted the apoptosis of human UM cells, and inhibited the transition of UM cells from the G0/G1 stage into the G2 stage, in which DNA replication occurs. In vivo, PVE had significant anti-UM activity. PVE decreased the concentrations of estrogen and progesterone and downregulated the expression levels of the estrogen and progesterone receptors through the estrogen signaling pathway. PVE also promoted the apoptosis of UM cells by downregulating the expression levels of the survivin and Bcl-2 proteins and upregulating the expression levels of caspase-3 and Bax through the mitochondria-mediated apoptotic pathway.

CONCLUSION

PVE has marked anti-UM activity. PVE can be used as an ideal candidate drug to treat UM.

Role of pyroglutamylated RFamide peptide43 in germ cell dynamics in mice testes in relation to energy metabolism

QRFP is a neuropeptide that regulates glucose homeostasis and increases insulin sensitivity in tissues. We have previously shown that QRFP and its receptor (GPR103) are predominantly expressed in germ cells and Sertoli cells, respectively, in mice testes. In the present study, we report that QRFP caused an increase in PCNA and a decrease in p27Kip1 expressions in the testis under both in vivo and ex vivo conditions. Besides, via an in vivo study, cell cycle analysis by FACS showed an increase in 2C cells and a decrease in 1C cells. QRFP also induced expression of GDNF and phosphorylation of Akt and ERK-1/2. Together these results suggest that QRFP has a proliferative effect on germ cells in mice testes, since it caused a proportional increase in the mitotic activity and the number of spermatogonial cells. Further, observations of increased expressions of STAT-3 and Neurog3 in treated mice suggest that QRFP treatment regulates priming of undifferentiated spermatogonia to undergo differentiation, while a decrease in c-Kit expression indicate that spermatogonia at this time point are in an undifferentiated state. In addition, QRFP administration also caused an increase in intratesticular levels of glucose and lactate, and in LDH activity accompanied by increased expressions of GLUT-3 and LDH-C in the testis. Also, the phosphorylation of IR-β and expressions of p-Akt and p-mTOR were increased under ex vivo conditions in testicular tissue. In conclusion, our findings suggest that QRFP treatment caused proliferation of germ cells independently from the hypothalamic-pituitary axis via regulation of testicular energy metabolism.

Inhibin A regulates follicular development via hormone secretion and granulosa cell behaviors in laying hens

Inhibin A regulates follicular development, and its expression level is related to physiological activities, such as the recruitment, selection, and predominance during follicular development. Therefore, examining inhibin A and its regulatory effects on the reproductive performance of poultry is crucial. In this study, we measured the mRNA and protein abundances of INHA and INHBA in the chicken reproductive system and determined the hormone secretion and apoptosis of follicular granulosa cells (GCs) after being treated with inhibin A protein, and flow cytometry was performed to analyze GC apoptosis in INHA-specific small RNA interference (siRNA). We detected that INHA and INHBA were mainly expressed in chicken follicles. The highest INHA mRNA abundance was found in the fifth largest preovulatory follicle (F5) (P < 0.05). INHBA mRNA expression in the largest preovulatory follicle (F1) was significantly higher than those in other follicles (P < 0.05). Similar results were found for INHA and INHBA protein expression in those follicles (P < 0.05). Treatment with inhibin A protein increased the activity of GCs in a dose-dependent manner (P < 0.05), which was characterized by decreased gene expression of pro-apoptotic factors Bax and Caspase-3 (P < 0.05) and increased expression of proliferation genes Bcl-2 and PCNA (P < 0.05). Additionally, inhibin A significantly increased the secretion of progesterone and estradiol (P < 0.05). RNAi-mediated knockdown of INHA increased apoptosis in GCs via a Caspase-3-dependent mitochondrial pathway.

Determination of the changes on the small intestine of pregnant mice by histological, enzyme histochemical, and immunohistochemical methods

BACKGROUND/AIMS

The aim of the present study was to determine the changes on the small intestine in mice during pregnancy using histological, enzyme histochemical, and immunohistochemical methods.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 24 Swiss albino female mice were divided as non-pregnant/control, first week, second week, and third week of pregnancy (n=6). Tissue samples obtained from the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum were processed by means of routine histological techniques and stained with Crossmon's triple staining. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was demonstrated with the simultaneous azo-coupling method. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) was demonstrated with the streptavidin-biotin-peroxidase complex method. The numerical data of the parameters were obtained and analyzed statistically.

RESULTS

Villus height, villus width, and the rate of villus height/crypt depth were decreased in the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum in the last week of pregnancy compared with the control group. Changes in the crypt depth of the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum in pregnancy were found. The muscle width increased in pregnancy. It was identified that the ALP reactivity statistically significantly increased in the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum in pregnancy. The percentage of PCNA-positive cells in the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum increased in the first and second weeks of pregnancy, whereas it decreased in the third week of pregnancy compared with non-pregnant control animals.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, villus parameters, ALP reactivity, and percentage of PCNA-positive cells in the small intestine were affected during pregnancy.

Targeting Opsin4/Melanopsin with a Novel Small Molecule Suppresses PKC/RAF/MEK/ERK Signaling and Inhibits Lung Adenocarcinoma Progression

The identification of oncogenic biomolecules as drug targets is an unmet need for the development of clinically effective novel anticancer therapies. In this study, we report for the first time that opsin 4/melanopsin (OPN4) plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and is a potential drug target. Our study has revealed that OPN4 is overexpressed in human lung cancer tissues and cells, and is inversely correlated with patient survival probability. Knocking down expression of OPN4 suppressed cells growth and induced apoptosis in lung cancer cells. We have also found that OPN4, a G protein-coupled receptor, interacted with Gα11 and triggered the PKC/BRAF/MEK/ERKs signaling pathway in lung adenocarcinoma cells. Genetic ablation of OPN4 attenuated the multiplicity and the volume of urethane-induced lung tumors in mice. Importantly, our study provides the first report of AE 51310 (1-[(2,5-dichloro-4-methoxyphenyl)sulfonyl]-3-methylpiperidine) as a small-molecule inhibitor of OPN4, suppressed the anchorage-independent growth of lung cancer cells and the growth of patient-derived xenograft tumors in mice. IMPLICATIONS: Overall, this study unveils the role of OPN4 in NSCLC and suggests that targeting OPN4 with small molecules, such as AE 51310 would be interesting to develop novel anticancer therapies for lung adenocarcinoma.

Feeding colostrum or a 1:1 colostrum:milk mixture for 3 days postnatal increases small intestinal development and minimally influences plasma glucagon-like peptide-2 and serum insulin-like growth factor-1 concentrations in Holstein bull calves

This study evaluated how feeding colostrum- or a colostrum-milk mixture for 3 d postnatal affects plasma glucagon-like peptide-2 (GLP-2), serum insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), and small intestinal histomorphology in calves. Holstein bulls (n = 24) were fed colostrum at 2 h postnatal and randomly assigned to receive either colostrum (COL), whole milk (WM), or a 1:1 COL:WM mixture (MIX) every 12 h from 12 to 72 h. A jugular venous catheter was placed at 1 h postnatal to sample blood frequently for the duration of the experiment. Samples were collected at 1, 2, 3, 6, 9, 11, and 12 h. Following the 12-h meal, blood was collected at half-hour intervals until 16 h and then at 1-h intervals from 16 to 24 h. A 27-h sample was taken, then blood was sampled every 6 h from 30 to 60 h. Again, blood was taken at half-intervals from 60 to 64 h, then at 65 and 66 h, following which, a 2-h sampling interval was used until 72 h. Plasma GLP-2 (all time points) and serum IGF-1 (at time points: 1, 6, 12, 18, 24, 36, 48, and 72 h) were both analyzed. Duodenal, jejunal, and ileal tissues were collected at 75 h of age to assess histomorphology and cellular proliferation. Feeding COL, rather than WM, increased plasma GLP-2 by 60% for 2 h and tended to increase GLP-2 by 49.4% for 4 h after the 60-h meal. Insulin-like growth factor-1 area under the curve (from 12 to 72 h) tended to be 27% greater for COL than WM calves but was otherwise unaffected by treatment. Ileal crypts tended to proliferate more with MIX than WM, whereas ileal crypt proliferation did not differ for COL compared with MIX or WM and was not different between treatments in the proximal jejunum. Villi height was increased 1.8 and 1.5× (COL and MIX vs. WM) in the proximal and distal jejunum, respectively, whereas MIX duodenal and ileal villi height tended to be 1.5 and 1.4× that of WM. Crypt depth did not differ in any region. Surface area of the gastrointestinal tract was reduced for WM by 60 and 58% (proximal jejunum) and 38 and 52% (ileum) relative to COL and MIX and was 54% less than MIX in the distal jejunum. Overall, extended COL feeding minimally increased plasma GLP-2 and serum IGF-1 compared with WM feeding. As COL and MIX similarly promoted small intestinal maturation, feeding calves transition milk to promote intestinal development could be a strategy for producers.

LncRNA FAM66C inhibits pancreatic cancer progression by sponging miR-574-3p

Background

Pancreatic cancer is an extensively concerned human malignancy around the globe, yet the potential therapeutic target remains to be further determined. MicroRNA and LncRNA have been reported to be involved in progression of pancreatic cancer, while the biological role of microRNA-574-3p (miR-574-3p) and FAM66C in pancreatic cancer development is poorly investigated.

Methods

Quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) analysis was employed to detect the expression of miR-574-3p and FAM66C in pancreatic normal or cancerous tissues and cells. The proliferative and apoptosis signaling molecules were also examined via qPCR and western blot separately. Additionally, cell proliferation and apoptosis assay were performed via CCK8, colony formation and Annexin V-FITC apoptosis assay. Interaction between miR-574-3p and FAM66C was interrogated by luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation. Even more, a pancreatic cancer xenograft mice assay was implemented to illustrate the coordinating role of miR-574-3p and FAM66C in pancreatic cancer proliferation.

Results

We found that levels of miR-574-3p were significantly higher in cancer tissues and cells compared to normal (P<0.05). Remarkably, the results indicated that depletion of miR-574-3p inhibited proliferation and promoted apoptosis of human pancreatic cancer cell lines. Additionally, FAM66C was demonstrated to interact with miR-574-3p and inhibit its expression. Significantly, FAM66C was proved to act as a tumor suppressor role via inhibiting cell proliferation and promoting cell apoptosis in pancreatic cancer. Moreover, FAM66C coordinated with miR-574-3p to regulate progression of xenograft tumor in the nude mice.

Conclusions

FAM66C-miR-574-3p axis mediates progression of pancreatic and might be the promising therapeutic target for pancreatic cancer patients.

Allicin Inhibits Proliferation and Promotes Apoptosis of Human Epidural Scar Fibroblasts

BACKGROUND

Allicin can suppress liver and cardiac fibrosis; thus, we hypothesized that it might prevent scar tissue from extensive epidural fibrosis after laminectomy.

METHODS

Human epidural scar fibroblasts were isolated from surgical specimens and treated with allicin at a gradient of concentrations. Morphology, viability, migration rate, cell cycle, and apoptosis rate were measured by fluorescence microscope, Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, scratch assay, and flow cytometry. Western blot was used to measure the expression level of proliferation-related proteins.

RESULTS

After treatment by allicin, cell viability (P = 0.042) and migration rate (P = 0.010 in scratch assay and P = 0.025 in transwell assay) decreased significantly in a dose-dependent manner. The percentage of G₁ phase cells significantly decreased (P = 0.017), whereas the percentage of S phase cells (P = 0.096) and G₂ phase cells (P = 0.038) significantly increased in a dose-dependent manner. Similarly, the percentage of apoptotic cells increased significantly in a dose-dependent manner (P = 0.036). Compared with the control group, the expression level of proliferating cell nuclear antigen protein (P = 0.081) and Bcl-2 protein (P = 0.029) significantly decreased, whereas the BAX protein level significantly increased (P = 0.017).

CONCLUSIONS

Allicin can suppress human epidural scar fibroblast migration, induce cell apoptosis, and block cell proliferation at S phase and G₂ phase.

Melatonin activates cell death programs for the suppression of uterine leiomyoma cell proliferation

The circadian nature of melatonin has a protective effect on the progression of female reproductive cancers, including breast and ovarian cancers. However, the effect of melatonin on the growth of uterine leiomyoma is still unclear. In this study, we found that the growth of uterine leiomyoma ELT3 cells was reduced by treatment with melatonin. Treatment with melatonin increased the distribution of sub-G1 phase and increased DNA condensation in ELT3 cells. Melatonin-induced apoptosis and autophagy cell death progression were observed in ELT3 cells. Melatonin exerts a highly selective effect on primary normal human uterine smooth muscle (UtSMC) cells. The UtSMC cell cycle was arrested by melatonin treatment through up-regulation of p21, p27, and PTEN protein expression, but melatonin did not further promote apoptosis program activation. Melatonin reduced cell proliferation in ELT3 cells underlying the activation of melatonin MT1 and MT2 receptors, which in turn down-regulated the Akt-ERK1/2-NFκB signaling pathway. Melatonin reduced ELT3 tumor growth in both xenograft and orthotopic uterine tumor mice models. The extracellular matrix of the tumor was also reduced by melatonin treatment. Taken together, these results suggest that melatonin potentially plays a role in suppression of uterine leiomyoma growth.