Kaempferol alleviates ox-LDL-induced apoptosis by up-regulation of miR-26a-5p via inhibiting TLR4/NF-κB pathway in human endothelial cells

Kaempferol inhibited invasion and metastasis of gastric cancer cells by targeting AKT/GSK3β pathway based on network pharmacology and molecular docking

This study aims to explore the mechanisms of the inhibitory effect of kaempferol on the invasion and metastasis of gastric cancer (GC) cells through network pharmacology prediction and experimental verification. It identifies core targets via PPI network analysis and finds that kaempferol binds to these targets well. In vitro experiments showed that kaempferol could inhibit the proliferation, colony formation, migration and invasion of GC cells. Western blotting indicated kaempferol may reduce AKT and GSK3β phosphorylation, leading to lower expression of invasion-related genes SRC, MMP9, CXCR4, KDR, and MMP2. Overall, kaempferol may prevent migration and invasion of GC cells via the AKT/GSK3β signaling pathway.

Circ_0002331 Interacts with ELAVL1 to Improve ox-LDL-Induced Vascular Endothelial Cell Dysfunction via Regulating CCND2 mRNA Stability

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been discovered to serve as vital regulators in atherosclerosis (AS). However, the role and mechanism of circ_0002331 in AS process are still unclear. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were treated with ox-LDL to establish an in vitro model for AS. The expression levels of circ_0002331, Cyclin D2 (CCND2) and ELAVL1 were analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, invasion and angiogenesis were assessed by EdU assay, flow cytometry, transwell assay and tube formation assay. The protein levels of CCND2, ELAVL1, and autophagy-related markers were detected using western blot analysis. IL-8 level was analyzed by ELISA. The relationship between ELAVL1 and circ_0002331 or CCND2 was analyzed by RIP assay and RNA pull-down assay. Moreover, FISH assay was used to analyze the co-localization of ELAVL1 and CCND2 in HUVECs. Our data showed that circ_0002331 was obviously downregulated in AS patients and ox-LDL-induced HUVECs. Overexpression of circ_0002331 could promote proliferation, migration, invasion and angiogenesis, while inhibit apoptosis, autophagy and inflammation in ox-LDL-induced HUVECs. Furthermore, CCND2 was positively regulated by circ_0002331, and circ_0002331 could bind with ELAVL1 to promote CCND2 mRNA stability. Besides, CCND2 overexpression suppressed ox-LDL-induced HUVECs dysfunction, and its knockdown also reversed the regulation of circ_0002331 on ox-LDL-induced HUVECs dysfunction. In conclusion, circ_0002331 might be a potential target for AS treatment, which could improve ox-LDL-induced dysfunction of HUVECs via regulating CCND2 by binding with ELAVL1.

Kaempferol efficacy in metabolic diseases: Molecular mechanisms of action in diabetes mellitus, obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, steatohepatitis, and atherosclerosis

The incidence of metabolic diseases has progressively increased, which has a negative impact on human health and life safety globally. Due to the good efficacy and limited side effects, there is growing interest in developing effective drugs to treat metabolic diseases from natural compounds. Kaempferol (KMP), an important flavonoid, exists in many vegetables, fruits, and traditional medicinal plants. Recently, KMP has received widespread attention worldwide due to its good potential in the treatment of metabolic diseases. To promote the basic research and clinical application of KMP, this review provides a timely and comprehensive summary of the pharmacological advances of KMP in the treatment of four metabolic diseases and its potential molecular mechanisms of action, including diabetes mellitus, obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)/nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and atherosclerosis. According to the research, KMP shows remarkable therapeutic effects on metabolic diseases by regulating multiple signaling transduction pathways such as NF-κB, Nrf2, AMPK, PI3K/AKT, TLR4, and ER stress. In addition, the most recent literature on KMP's natural source, pharmacokinetics studies, as well as toxicity and safety are also discussed in this review, thus providing a foundation and evidence for further studies to develop novel and effective drugs from natural compounds. Collectively, our manuscript strongly suggested that KMP could be a promising candidate for the treatment of metabolic diseases.

Noncoding RNAs in atherosclerosis: regulation and therapeutic potential

Atherosclerosis, a chronic disease of arteries, results in high mortality worldwide as the leading cause of cardiovascular disease. The development of clinically relevant atherosclerosis involves the dysfunction of endothelial cells and vascular smooth muscle cells. A large amount of evidence indicates that noncoding RNAs, such as microRNAs (miRNAs), long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), are involved in various physiological and pathological processes. Recently, noncoding RNAs were identified as key regulators in the development of atherosclerosis, including the dysfunction of endothelial cells, and vascular smooth muscle cells and it is pertinent to understand the potential function of noncoding RNAs in atherosclerosis development. In this review, the latest available research relates to the regulatory role of noncoding RNAs in the progression of atherosclerosis and the therapeutic potential for atherosclerosis is summarized. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the regulatory and interventional roles of ncRNAs in atherosclerosis and to inspire new insights for the prevention and treatment of this disease.

Exploring the effective compounds and potential mechanisms of Shengxian Decoction against coronary heart disease by UPLC-Q-TOF/MS and network pharmacology analysis

As a well-known classical Chinese medicine prescription, Shengxian Decoction (SXD) has been applied for a century to treat cardiovascular diseases, especially coronary heart disease (CHD), but the potentially effective compounds and underlying mechanisms remain unclear. With ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-time of flight-mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF/MS) and network pharmacology analysis, the potential effective compounds of SXD and their pharmacological mechanisms against CHD were identified and revealed. 57 effective compounds with favorable pharmacokinetic characteristics and biological activities were screened through UPLC-Q-TOF/MS analysis, database and literature mining, interacting with 96 CHD-related targets to support potential synergistic therapeutic actions. Systematic analysis of the PPI network and microarray data further revealed six core targets, including TNF, IL-1β, IL-6, TP53, VEGFA and PTGS2, which were mainly involved in fluid shear stress and atherosclerosis, lipid and atherosclerosis, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway et al. Moreover, the proposed contribution indexes of effective compounds indicated these compounds, including isoferulic acid, quercetin, calycosin, ferulic acid, kaempferol, calycosin 7-O-glycoside, formononetin, astragaloside IV and saikosaponin D, as the core compounds of SXD. The molecular docking results confirmed that those core compound-target pairs exhibited strong binding energy. Furthermore, we validated that SXD significantly alleviated myocardial tissue injury in CHD rats and reversed H/R-induced decreases in H9c2 cell viability by attenuating the production of TNF, IL-6 and IL-1β, and reducing cardiomyocyte apoptosis via down-regulating the TP53, caspase3 and cytochrome C mRNA expression levels as well as caspase3, caspase9 and cytochrome C protein expression levels according to RT-qPCR and Western blot results. Our findings explained the pharmacological mechanisms underlying the effectiveness of SXD in the treatment of CHD, and laid a foundation for future basic and clinical research of SXD.

BMP7 alleviates trigeminal neuralgia by reducing oligodendrocyte apoptosis and demyelination

BACKGROUND

BMP7 has been shown to have neuroprotective effects and to alleviate demyelination. However, its role in trigeminal neuralgia (TN) has not been well investigated. The current study aims to determine whether BMP7 plays a role in demyelination, its effects on pain behaviors and mechanism of action in rats with TN.

METHODS

We used an infraorbital-nerve chronic-constriction injury (ION-CCI) to establish a rat model of TN. Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) were injected into the rats to upregulate or downregulate BMP7. The mechanical withdrawal thresholds (MWT) of the injured rats were detected using Von Frey filaments. The changes in expression levels of BMP7 and oligodendrocyte (OL) markers were examined by western blotting, quantitative real-time PCR, immunofluorescence, and transmission electron microscopy.

RESULTS

The ION-CCI induced mechanical allodynia, demyelination, and loss of OLs with a reduction of BMP7. Short-hairpin RNA (shRNA)-BMP7 that inhibited BMP7 expression also caused mechanical allodynia, demyelination, and loss of OLs, and its mechanism may be OL apoptosis. Overexpressing BMP7 in the trigeminal spinal subnucleus caudalis(VC) with AAV-BMP7 relieved all three phenotypes induced by the CCI, and its mechanism may be alleviating OLs apoptosis. Two signal pathways associated with apoptosis, STAT3 and p65, were significantly downregulated in the VC after CCI and rescued by BMP7 overexpression.

CONCLUSION

BMP7 can alleviate TN by reducing OLs apoptosis and subsequent demyelination. The mechanism behind this protection could be BMP7-mediated activation of the STAT3 and NF-κB/p65 signaling pathway and subsequent decrease in OL apoptosis. Importantly, our study presents clear evidence in support of BMP7 as a possible therapeutic target for the treatment of TN.

Exploring the active ingredients and mechanism of Shenzhi Tongxin capsule against microvascular angina based on network pharmacology and molecular docking

BACKGROUND

Microvascular angina (MVA) substantially threatens human health, and the Shenzhi Tongxin (SZTX) capsule demonstrates a remarkable cardioprotective effect, making it a potential treatment option for MVA. However, the precise mechanism of action for this medication remains unclear. This study utilized network pharmacology and molecular docking technology to investigate the active components and potential mechanisms underlying the efficacy of the SZTX capsule in alleviating MVA.

METHODS

The main ingredients of the SZTX capsule, along with their targets proteins and potential disease targets associated with MVA, were extracted from public available databases. This study utilized the STRING database and Cytoscape 3.7.2 software to establish a protein-protein interaction network and determine key signaling pathway targets. Subsequently, the DAVID database was utilized to conduct Gene Ontology and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analyses on the intersection targets. To further investigate the molecular interactions, Autodock and PyMOL software were employed to perform molecular docking and visualize the resulting outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 130 and 142 bioactive ingredients and intersection targets were identified respectively. Six core targets were obtained through protein-protein interaction network analysis. Gene Ontology enrichment analysis showed that 610 biological processes, 75 cellular components, and 92 molecular functions were involved. The results of Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses indicated that SZTX capsule molecular mechanism in the treatment of MVA may be related to several pathways, including mitogen-activated protein kinases, PI3K-Akt, HIF-1, and others. The results of molecular docking showed that the 7 key active ingredients of SZTX capsule had good binding ability to 6 core proteins.

CONCLUSION

SZTX capsule potentially exerts its effects by targeting multiple signaling pathways, including the mitogen-activated protein kinases signaling pathway, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, and HIF-1 signaling pathway. This multi-target approach enables SZTX capsule to inhibit inflammation, alleviate oxidative stress, regulate angiogenesis, and enhance endothelial function.

Green tea actions on miRNAs expression – An update

Compounds derived from plants have been widely studied in the context of metabolic diseases and associated clinical conditions. In this regard, although the effects of Camellia sinensis plant, from which various types of teas, such as green tea, originate, have been vastly reported in the literature, the mechanisms underlying these effects remain elusive. A deep search of the literature showed that green tea's action in different cells, tissues, and diseases is an open field in the research of microRNAs (miRNAs). miRNAs are important communicator molecules between cells in different tissues implicated in diverse cellular pathways. They have emerged as an important linkage between physiology and pathophysiology, raising the issue of polyphenols can act also by changing miRNA expression. miRNAs are short, non-coding endogenous RNA, which silence the gene functions by targeting messenger RNA (mRNA) through degradation or translation repression. Therefore, the aim of this review is to present the studies that show the main compounds of green tea modulating the expression of miRNAs in inflammation, adipose tissue, skeletal muscle, and liver. We provide an overview of a few studies that have tried to demonstrate the role of miRNAs associated with the beneficial effects of compounds from green tea. We have emphasized that there is still a considerable gap in the literature investigating the role and likely involvement of miRNAs in the extensive beneficial health effects of green tea compounds already described, indicating miRNAs as potential polyphenols' mediators with a promising field to be investigated.

Recent advances of traditional Chinese medicine for the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Atherosclerosis (AS) is a common systemic disease with increasing morbidity and mortality worldwide. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) with characteristics of multiple pathways and targets, presents advantages in the diagnosis and treatment of atherosclerosis.

AIM OF THE STUDY

With the modernization of TCM, the active ingredients and molecular mechanisms of TCM for AS treatment have been gradually revealed. Therefore, it is necessary to examine the existing studies on TCM therapies aimed at regulating AS over the past two decades.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Using "atherosclerosis" and "Traditional Chinese medicine" as keywords, all relevant TCM literature published in the last 10 years was collected from electronic databases (such as Elsevier, Springer, PubMed, CNKI, and Web of Science), books and papers until March 2022, and the critical information was statistically analyzed.

RESULTS

In this review, we highlighted extracts of 8 single herbs, a total of 41 single active ingredients, 20 TCM formulae, and 25 patented drugs, which were described with chemical structure, source, model, efficacy and potential mechanism.

CONCLUSION

We summarized the cytopathological basis for the development of atherosclerosis involving vascular endothelial cells, macrophages and vascular smooth muscle cells, and categorically elaborated the medicinal TCM used for AS, all of which provide the current evidence on the better management of atherosclerosis by TCM.

Potential implications of polyphenolic compounds in neurodegenerative diseases

Neurodegenerative diseases are common chronic diseases related to progressive damage to the nervous system. Current neurodegenerative diseases present difficulties and despite extensive research efforts to develop new disease-modifying therapies, there is still no effective treatment for halting the neurodegenerative process. Polyphenols are biologically active organic compounds abundantly found in various plants. It has been reported that plant-derived dietary polyphenols may improve some disease states and promote health. Emerging pieces of evidence indicate that polyphenols are associated with neurodegenerative diseases. This review aims to overview the potential neuroprotective roles of polyphenols in most common neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, and ischemic stroke.

Natural drugs targeting inflammation pathways can be used to treat atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis (AS) is the chronic gradual degradation of arteries in combination with inflammation. Currently, the main research focus has been on interactions between inflammatory cells, inflammatory mediators, and immune mechanisms, while some studies have reported natural drugs were exerting a critical role against AS, whereas the usage of natural drugs was always limited by various factors such as poor penetration across biological barriers, low bioavailability, and unclear mechanisms. Herein, we reviewed the potential targets for inflammation against AS, discussed the underlying mechanisms of natural drugs for AS, particularly highlighted the dilemma of current research, and finally, offered perspectives in this field.

Polydatin reverses oxidation low lipoprotein (oxLDL)-induced apoptosis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells <em>via</em> regulating the miR-26a-5p/BID axis

Atherosclerosis is a disease in which lipids and inflammatory factors accumulate on the walls of arteries, forming plaques that eventually block the flow of blood. Polydatin was derived from plant knotweed, which could play an important role in inhibiting the progression of atherosclerosis. However, the mechanism by which polydatin regulates the genesis and development of atherosclerosis remains unclear. To detect the function of polydatin in atherosclerosis, the proliferation, apoptosis and migration of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) was detected using 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine staining, flow cytometry and transwell assays, respectively. In addition, the branch points and capillary length of HUVECs were observed using a tube formation assay, and the lipid accumulation was tested by Oil-red O staining assay. Dual luciferase reporter assays were performed to confirm the association between microRNA (miR)-26a-5p and BH3 interacting domain death agonist (BID) in HUVECs. The data suggested oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) notably inhibited the viability of HUVECs in a dose-dependent manner, and polydatin reversed the oxLDL-induced inhibition of HUVECs viability and proliferation. In addition, polydatin inhibited the apoptosis, migration and epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) process in oxLDL-treated HUVECs. Polydatin reversed oxLDL-induced lipid accumulation and angiogenesis inhibition in HUVECs. Furthermore, BID was targeted by miR-26a-5p, and polydatin reversed the oxLDL-induced apoptosis of HUVECs via regulating the miR-26a-5p/BID axis. In summary, polydatin reversed the oxLDL-induced apoptosis of HUVECs via regulating the miR-26a-5p/BID axis. Therefore, polydatin could act as a new agent for atherosclerosis treatment.

Kaempferol and atherosclerosis: From mechanism to medicine

Natural products possess pleiotropic cardiovascular protective effects owing to their anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation and anti-thrombotic properties. Kaempferol, (3,5,7-trihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-4H-1-benzopyran-4-one), is a kind of naturally occurring flavonoid existing in many common fruits and vegetables (e.g., onions, broccoli, strawberries and grapes) and particularly in traditional Chinese medicine as exemplified by Ginkgo biloba. Epidemiological, preclinical and clinical studies have revealed an inverse association between the consumption of kaempferol-containing foods and medicines and the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. Numerous translational studies in experimental animal models and cultured cells have demonstrated a wide range of pharmacological activities of kaempferol. In this article, we reviewed the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and cardio-protective activities of kaempferol and elucidated the potential molecular basis of the therapeutic capacity of kaempferol by focusing on its anti-atherosclerotic effects. Overall, the review presents the health benefits of kaempferol-containing plants and medicines and reflects on the potential of kaempferol as a possible drug candidate to prevent and treat atherosclerosis, the underlying pathology of most cardiovascular diseases.

Global research trends in atherosclerosis: A bibliometric and visualized study

Background

Increasing evidence has spurred a considerable evolution of concepts related to atherosclerosis, prompting the need to provide a comprehensive view of the growing literature. By retrieving publications in the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) of Clarivate Analytics, we conducted a bibliometric analysis of the scientific literature on atherosclerosis to describe the research landscape.

Methods

A search was conducted of the WoSCC for articles and reviews serving exclusively as a source of information on atherosclerosis published between 2012 and 2022. Microsoft Excel 2019 was used to chart the annual productivity of research relevant to atherosclerosis. Through CiteSpace and VOSviewer, the most prolific countries or regions, authors, journals, and resource-, intellectual-, and knowledge-sharing in atherosclerosis research, as well as co-citation analysis of references and keywords, were analyzed.

Results

A total of 20,014 publications were retrieved. In terms of publications, the United States remains the most productive country (6,390, 31,93%). The most publications have been contributed by Johns Hopkins Univ (730, 3.65%). ALVARO ALONSO produced the most published works (171, 0.85%). With a betweenness centrality of 0.17, ERIN D MICHOS was the most influential author. The most prolific journal was identified as Atherosclerosis (893, 4.46%). Circulation received the most co-citations (14,939, 2.79%). Keywords with the ongoing strong citation bursts were “nucleotide-binding oligomerization (NOD), Leucine-rich repeat (LRR)-containing protein (NLRP3) inflammasome,” “short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs),” “exosome,” and “homeostasis,” etc.

Conclusion

The research on atherosclerosis is driven mostly by North America and Europe. Intensive research has focused on the link between inflammation and atherosclerosis, as well as its complications. Specifically, the NLRP3 inflammasome, interleukin-1β, gut microbiota and SCFAs, exosome, long non-coding RNAs, autophagy, and cellular senescence were described to be hot issues in the field.

Pinocembrin suppresses oxidized low-density lipoprotein-triggered NLRP3 inflammasome/GSDMD-mediated endothelial cell pyroptosis through an Nrf2-dependent signaling pathway

Pinocembrin (Pin) has been confirmed to exert anti-inflammatory and antiatherosclerotic effects. Here we have explored whether and how Pin would protect vascular endothelial cells against pyroptosis elicited by the exposure to oxidized low density lipoprotein (oxLDL). Our results showed that Pin preconditioning dose-dependently suppressed oxLDL-stimulated HUVEC injury and pyroptosis, which were manifested by improved cell viability, lower lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels and DNA damage as well as decreased expression of pyroptosis-related markers, such as NOD-like receptor pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3), apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase activation and recruitment domain (ASC), pro-Caspase-1, cleaved Caspase-1, N-terminus of Gasdermin D-N (GSDMD-N), pro-interleukins-1β (pro-IL-1β), IL-1β and inflammatory cytokines (IL-18 and IL-1β). All of the effects were similar to those of MCC950 (an NLRP3 inhibitor). As expected, Pin distinctly activated the Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) antioxidative signaling pathway assessed through increased expressions of Nrf2, heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1). Furthermore, after transfection with small interfering RNA of Nrf2, the inhibitory effects of Pin on oxLDL-triggered NLRP3 inflammasome/GSDMD-mediated pyroptosis and oxidative stress in HUVECs were weakened. Additionally, Pin up-regulated Nrf2/HO-1 axis and down-regulated NLRP3 inflammasome/GSDMD-mediated pyroptosis signals in Apoe^-/- mice fed with high fat diet. These results contribute to the understanding of the anti-pyroptosis mechanisms of Pin and provide a reference for future research on the anti-atherosclerotic effect of Pin.

Activation of the GPX4/TLR4 Signaling Pathway Participates in the Alleviation of Selenium Yeast on Deltamethrin-Provoked Cerebrum Injury in Quails

Deltamethrin (DLM) is a member of pyrethroid pesticide widely applied for agriculture and aquaculture, and its residue in the environment seriously threatens the bio-safety. The cerebrum might be vulnerable to pesticide-triggered oxidative stress. However, there is no specific antidote for treating DLM-triggered cerebral injury. Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element functionally forming selenoprotein glutathione peroxidase (GPX) in antioxidant defense. Se yeast (SY) is a common and effective organic form of Se supplement with high selenomethionine content. Accordingly, this study focused on investigating the therapeutic potential of SY on DLM-induced cerebral injury in quails after chronically exposing to DLM and exploring the underlying mechanisms. Quails were treated with/without SY (0.4 mg kg^-1 SY added in standard diet) in the presence/absence of DLM (45 mg kg^-1 body weight intragastrically) for 12 weeks. The results showed SY supplementation ameliorated DLM-induced cerebral toxicity. Concretely, SY elevated the content of Se and increased GPX4 level in DLM-treated quail cerebrum. Furthermore, SY enhanced antioxidant defense system by upregulating nuclear factor-erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) associated members. Inversely, SY diminished the changes of apoptosis- and inflammation-associated proteins and genes including toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4). Collectively, our results suggest that dietary SY protects against DLM-induced cerebral toxicity in quails via positively regulating the GPX4/TLR4 signaling pathway. GPX4 may be a potential therapeutic target for insecticide-induced biotoxicity.

Zhilong Huoxue Tongyu Capsule Alleviated the Pyroptosis of Vascular Endothelial Cells Induced by ox-LDL through miR-30b-5p/NLRP3

Background

Our previous studies have demonstrated a protective role of Zhilong Huoxue Tongyu capsule in atherosclerosis (AS); however, the molecular mechanisms are unclear.

Methods

Human coronary artery endothelial cells (HCAECs) were induced with oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) to obtain cellular AS models. Then, the medicated serum of Zhilong Huoxue Tongyu capsule was obtained and used for treatment with ox-LDL-induced HCAECs. The cell viability was detected by CCK-8 assay. Besides, the binding between miR-30b-5p and NLRP3 was determined by the dual-luciferase reporter gene system assay. Furthermore, ox-LDL-induced HCAECs were transfected with miR-30b-5p mimic or miR-30b-5p inhibitor. The pyroptosis of HCAECs was assessed by flow cytometry, LDH content detection, and qRT-PCR assays.

Results

10% medicated serum of Zhilong Huoxue Tongyu capsule was the maximum nontoxic concentration and it was used in subsequent assays. The rate of pyroptosis, LDH content, and the mRNA expression level of pyroptosis-related genes including NLRP3, ASC, Caspase 1, IL-1β, and IL-18 were prominently enhanced after HCAECs were induced by ox-LDL, which were markedly rescued with medicated serum of Zhilong Huoxue Tongyu capsule. In addition, the medicated serum of Zhilong Huoxue Tongyu capsule significantly enhanced the ox-LDL-induced reduction of miR-30b-5p level. NLRP3 could bind to miR-30b-5p and was negatively corrected with miR-30b-5p. Moreover, all the rates of pyroptosis, LDH content, and the mRNA expression levels of pyroptosis-related genes including NLRP3, ASC, Caspase 1, IL-1β, and IL-18 were further observably decreased after ox-LDL-induced HCAECs treated with medicated serum were transfected with miR-30b-5p mimic, while these were significantly rescued with transfection of miR-30b-5p inhibitor.

Conclusion

Zhilong Huoxue Tongyu capsule alleviated the pyroptosis of vascular endothelial cells induced by ox-LDL through miR-30b-5p/NLRP3.

Network pharmacology and in vitro studies reveal the pharmacological effects and molecular mechanisms of Shenzhi Jiannao prescription against vascular dementia

Background

Shenzhi Jiannao (SZJN) prescription is a type of herbal formula adopted in the management of cognitive impairment and related disorders. However, its effects and related regulatory mechanisms on vascular dementia (VD) are elusive. Herein, network pharmacology prediction was employed to explore the pharmacological effects and molecular mechanisms of SZJN prescription on VD using network pharmacology prediction, and validated the results through in vitro experiments.

Methods

Through a search in the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP) database, chemical composition and targets for SZJN prescription were retrieved. The potential targets for VD were then obtained from the GeneCards and DisGeNET databases. The network was constructed that depicted the interactions between putative SZJN prescription and known therapeutic targets for VD using Cytoscape 3.7.1. Analysis of protein-protein interaction was achieved via STRING 11.0 software, followed by Gene Ontology (GO) functional enrichment and Kyoto Gene and Genome Encyclopedia (KEGG) pathway analyses. To validate the computer-predicted results, in vitro experiments based on an excitotoxic injury model were designed using glutamate-exposed PC12 cells, and treated with varying concentrations (low, 0.05; medium, 0.1 and high, 0.2 mg/mL) of SZJN prescription. Cell viability and cell death were detected using the IncuCyte imaging system. Moreover, the expression profiles of Caspase-3 were analyzed through qRT-PCR.

Results

Twenty-eight potentially active ingredients for SZJN prescription, including stigmasterol, beta-sitosterol, and kaempferol, plus 21 therapeutic targets for VD, including PTGS2, PTGS1, and PGR were revealed. The protein-protein interaction network was employed for the analysis of 20 target proteins, including CASP3, JUN, and AChE. The enrichment analysis demonstrated candidate targets of SZJN prescription were more frequently involved in neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction, calcium, apoptosis, and cholinergic synaptic signaling pathways. In vitro experiments revealed that SZJN prescription could significantly reverse glutamate-induced cell viability loss and cell death, and lower the levels of Caspase-3 mRNA in glutamate-induced PC12 cells.

Conclusions

Collectively, this study demonstrated that SZJN prescription exerted the effect of treating VD by regulating multi-targets and multi-channels with multi-components through the method of network pharmacology. Furthermore, in vitro results confirmed that SZJN prescription attenuated glutamate-induced neurotoxicity.

Effects of Adipose-Derived Biogenic Nanoparticle-Associated microRNA-451a on Toll-like Receptor 4-Induced Cytokines

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are cell-released nanoparticles that transfer biomolecular content between cells. Among EV-associated biomolecules, microRNAs (miRNAs/miRs) represent one of the most important modulators of signaling pathways in recipient cells. Previous studies have shown that EVs from adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) and adipose tissue modulate inflammatory pathways in macrophages. In this study, the effects of miRNAs that are abundant in adipose tissue EVs and other biogenic nanoparticles (BiNPs) were assessed in terms of altering Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)-induced cytokines. TLR-4 signaling in macrophages is often triggered by pathogen or damage-induced inflammation and is associated with several diseases. This study demonstrates that miR-451a, which is abundant in adipose tissue BiNPs, suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokines and increases anti-inflammatory cytokines associated with the TLR4 pathway. Therefore, miR-451a may be partially responsible for immunomodulatory effects of adipose tissue-derived BiNPs.

Kaempferol-induced GPER upregulation attenuates atherosclerosis via the PI3K/AKT/Nrf2 pathway

CONTEXT

The effect of kaempferol, a regulator of oestrogen receptors, on atherosclerosis (AS) and the underlying mechanism is elusive.

OBJECTIVE

To explore the effect and mechanism of kaempferol on AS.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

In vivo, C57BL/6 and apolipoprotein E (APOE)^-/- mice were randomly categorized into six groups (C57BL/6: control, ovariectomy (OVX), high-fat diet (HFD); APOE^-/-: OVX-HFD, OVX-HFD + kaempferol (50 mg/kg) and OVX-HFD + kaempferol (100 mg/kg) and administered with kaempferol for 16 weeks, intragastrically. Oil-Red and haematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining were employed to examine the effect of kaempferol. In vitro, human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs) were pre-treated with or without kaempferol (5, 10 or 20 μM), followed by administration with kaempferol and oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) (200 μg/mL). The effect of kaempferol was evaluated using flow cytometry, and TdT-mediated dUTP Nick-End Labelling (TUNEL).

RESULTS

In vivo, kaempferol (50 and 100 mg/kg) normalized the morphology of blood vessels and lipid levels and suppressed inflammation and apoptosis. It also activated the G protein-coupled oestrogen receptor (GPER) and PI3K/AKT/nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathways. In vitro, ox-LDL (200 μg/mL) reduced the cell viability to 50% (IC₅₀). Kaempferol (5, 10 or 20 μM) induced-GPER activation increased cell viability to nearly 10%, 19.8%, 30%, and the decreased cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation (16.7%, 25.6%, 31.1%), respectively, consequently attenuating postmenopausal AS. However, the protective effects of kaempferol were blocked through co-treatment with si-GPER.

CONCLUSIONS

The beneficial effects of kaempferol against postmenopausal AS are associated with the PI3K/AKT/Nrf2 pathways, mediated by the activation of GPER.

Mechanisms of Action of MiRNAs and LncRNAs in Extracellular Vesicle in Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis, a complex chronic inflammatory disease, involves multiple alterations of diverse cells, including endothelial cells (ECs), vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), monocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells (DCs), platelets, and even mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Globally, it is a common cause of morbidity as well as mortality. It leads to myocardial infarctions, stroke and disabling peripheral artery disease. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are a heterogeneous group of cell-derived membranous structures that secreted by multiple cell types and play a central role in cell-to-cell communication by delivering various bioactive cargos, especially microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). Emerging evidence demonstrated that miRNAs and lncRNAs in EVs are tightly associated with the initiation and development of atherosclerosis. In this review, we will outline and compile the cumulative roles of miRNAs and lncRNAs encapsulated in EVs derived from diverse cells in the progression of atherosclerosis. We also discuss intercellular communications via EVs. In addition, we focused on clinical applications and evaluation of miRNAs and lncRNAs in EVs as potential diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for atherosclerosis.

Long Non-Coding RNA, Small Nucleolar RNA Host Gene 5, Inhibits the Oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein Induced Vascular Endothelial Cell Injury by Targeting miR-26a-5p

Atherosclerosis is the major cause of cardiovascular disease, and endothelial cell injury is the primary atherogenic factor. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are increasingly implicated as critical regulators of disease progression. Still, the role of lncRNA in endothelial cell injury is largely unknown. This issue was explored in control, ox-LDL stimulated, ox-LDL stimulated+transfected negative control vector, and ox-LDL stimulated+SNHG5 overexpression vector EA. hy926 cells. Quantitative real-time PCR used to assess the expression of SNHG5 and miR-26a-5p. Flow cytometry was used to evaluate cell apoptosis. Activity or concentration of SOD, MDA, CAT, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) was measured to assess oxidative stress. Western blotting was used to examine protein-level expression of cleaved Caspase-3, cleaved Caspase-9, and cyt-c in cytoplasm and mitochondria. Potential binding sites between SNHG5 and miR-26a-5p were predicted using Starbase software, and dual-luciferase reporter assays were used to identify target relationships. SNHG5 expression in cells following ox-LDL treatment was downregulated in EA. hy926 cells. Ox-LDL treatment promotes apoptosis, and increased C-Caspase-3, C-Caspase-9, and cytoplasmic cyt-c protein levels. MDA concentration and ROS activity were increased, while the activity of SOD and CAT was decreased. Transfection with SNHG5 reversed the effects of ox-LDL on cell apoptosis and oxidative stress. SNHG5 targeted miR-26a-5p and regulated its expression. miR-26a-5p mimics reversed SNHG5 modulation of apoptosis and oxidative stress. lncRNA SNHG5 targets to miR-26a-5p to regulate vascular endothelial cell injury induced by ox-LDL.

MiR-26a-5p Targets WNT5A to Protect Cardiomyocytes from Injury Due to Hypoxia/Reoxygenation Through the Wnt/β-catenin Signaling Pathway

This study aimed to investigate the effect and mechanism of miR-26a-5p on cardiomyocyte injury induced by hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R).After construction of an H/R model in rat cardiomyocyte H9c2 cells, miR-26a-5p in the cells was interfered with (cells transfected with miR-26a-5p inhibitor) or overexpressed (cells transfected with a miR-26a-5p mimics). The viability and the apoptosis rate of cells in each group were detected using CCK-8 and flow cytometry; the relationship between miR-26a-5p and WNT5A was verified by a dual-luciferase reporter assay; the expression of miR-26a-5p, WNT5A, cleavedcaspase3 and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway-related proteins in each group was detected using qRT-PCR or Western blot; LDH release, SOD, and GSH-PX activities in each group were detected by kit.In the H/R group, the expression level of miR-26a-5p was significantly decreased, whereas the expression level of WNT5A was significantly increased. The activity of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway was up-regulated; the level of LDH released was significantly increased; and activities of SOD and GSH-PX were significantly decreased. The aforementioned changes resulted in decreased cell activity and increased apoptosis rate. The overexpression of miR-26a-5p could reduce the expression level of WNT5A, the activity of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, and the apoptosis rate and restore the cell viability.These results suggest that miR-26a-5p can target WNT5A and thus, inhibit the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway activity, inhibiting H/R-induced cardiomyocyte injury and apoptosis.

Oxidized LDL-regulated microRNAs for evaluating vascular endothelial function: molecular mechanisms and potential biomarker roles in atherosclerosis

As a simple monolayer, vascular endothelial cells can respond to physicochemical stimuli. In addition to promoting the formation of foam cells, oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) contributes to the atherosclerotic process through different mechanisms, including endothelial cell dysfunction. As conserved noncoding RNAs, microRNAs (miRNAs) naturally lie in different genomic positions and post-transcriptionally regulate the expression of many genes. They participate in integrated networks formed under stress to maintain cellular homeostasis, vascular inflammation, and metabolism. These small RNAs constitute therapeutic targets in different diseases, including atherosclerosis, and their role as biomarkers is crucial given their detectability even years before the emergence of diseases. This review was performed to investigate the role of ox-LDL-regulated miRNAs in atherosclerosis, their molecular mechanisms, and their application as biomarkers of vascular endothelial cell dysfunction.

Pharmacological activities and Therapeutic potential of kaempferitrin in medicine for the treatment of human disorders: A review of medicinal importance and health benefits

BACKGROUND

Herbal drugs and their derived phytochemicals are valuable for human being as a source of vital component of food material and drugs. Flavonoids are naturally occurring phytochemical produced in plants through metabolisms and they are having anti-hyperlipidemia, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and anti-apoptotic activity. Flavonoids have been identified in the fruits, nuts, vegetables, seeds, stem, flowers and tea. Kaempferol is a natural flavonoidal compound present in edible plants such as apples, broccoli, strawberries, beans, grapefruit, propolis and medicinal plants such as Aloe vera, Ginkgo biloba, Rosmarinus officinalis, Crocus sativus L., Hypericum perforatum L. Kaempferol have anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, pro-apoptotic, cardio-protective and anti-cancer activities.

METHODS

Glycosides of kaempferol such as kaempferitrin also called kaempferol 3,7-dirhamnoside are known to be more abundant than their flavonoid monomers in plants. Various literature databases have been searched to collect all the scientific information of kaempferitrin in the present investigation and analyzed in order to know the therapeutic benefit and biological potential of kaempferitrin. Moreover all the information has been presented here in two broad sections i.e. pharmacological and analytical.

RESULTS

From the analysis of all the collected and presented information, it was found that kaempferitrin has potent insulin-mimetic potential and could be used for the treatment of diabetes and related complication. However, it has also shown anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-convulsant, anti-osteoporotic, anti-depressant, anthelmintic, immunostimulatory and natriuretic properties and inhibits cell proliferation and apoptosis. Kaempferitrin also improves meat quality of broiler chickens.

CONCLUSIONS

The presented information in this work will be valuable to justify the biological importance and therapeutic potential of kaempferitrin in the scientific field.

Neuroinflammation: The next target of exosomal microRNAs derived from mesenchymal stem cells in the context of neurological disorders

Among different types of mechanisms involved in neurological disorders, neuroinflammation links initial insults to secondary injuries and triggers some chronic outcomes, for example, neurodegenerative disorders. Thus, anti-inflammatory substances can be targeted as a novel therapeutic option for translational and clinical research to improve brain disease outcomes. In this review, we propose to introduce a new insight into the anti-inflammatory effects of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) as the most frequent source for stem cell therapy in neurological diseases. Our insight incorporates a bystander effect of these stem cells in modulating inflammation and microglia/macrophage polarization through exosomes. Exosomes are nano-sized membrane vesicles that carry cell-specific constituents, including protein, lipid, DNA, and RNA. microRNAs (miRNAs) have recently been detected in exosomes that can be taken up by other cells and affect the behavior of recipient cells. In this article, we outline and highlight the potential use of exosomal miRNAs derived from MSCs for inflammatory pathways in the context of neurological disorders. Furthermore, we suggest that focusing on exosomal miRNAs derived from MSCs in the course of neuroinflammatory pathways in the future could reveal their functions for diverse neurological diseases, including brain injuries and neurodegenerative diseases. It is hoped that this study will contribute to a deep understanding of stem cell bystander effects through exosomal miRNAs.

Mechanism of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells secreting miR-26a exosomes affecting high glucose-induced skin fibroblasts function by regulating TLR4/NF-κB signaling

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the molecular mechanism of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) secreting miR-26a exosomes on the function of skin fibroblasts.

METHODS

Exosomes from hMSCs were extracted and identified by transmission electron microscopy, particle size was analyzed and protein markers were detected. Then, the exosomes were co-cultured with human skin fibroblasts (BJ). CCK-8, Annexin V/P and Transwell assays were used to detect the proliferation, apoptosis, and migration of BJ cells. In addition, the expressions of miR-26a, related proteins, and related inflammatory factors were detected by qRT-PCR, western blotting, and ELISA.

RESULTS

Compared with the high glucose group, the proliferation rate, migration rate, and the expression of α-SMA, bcl-2, TLR4, NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-6, IL- and IL-1 were significantly decreased in the high glucose + MSC-Exo-miR-26a mimics group, while the apoptosis rate and the expression of miR-26a, cleaved-caspase 3, cleaved-caspase 9 and Bax were significantly increased. The results of the high glucose + MSC-Exo-miR-26a inhibitor group were the opposite.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that hMSCs cells secreting miR-26a exosomes inhibited the proliferation, migration, and transdifferentiation of high glucose-induced BJ cells, and promoted cell apoptosis, which may be related to the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway.

Propofol Ameliorates ox-LDL-Induced Endothelial Damage Through Enhancing Autophagy via PI3K/Akt/m-TOR Pathway: A Novel Therapeutic Strategy in Atherosclerosis

Objective: Atherosclerosis (AS) represents a common age-associated disease, which may be accelerated by oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL)-induced endothelial cell injury. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Propofol on ox-LDL-induced endothelial damage and the underlying molecular mechanisms.

Methods: Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were exposed to ox-LDL to induce endothelial damage. HUVECs were pretreated with 0, 5, 25 and 100°μM Propofol, followed by exposure to 100°μg/ml ox-LDL for 24°h. Cell viability was assessed by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. The expression of autophagy- and apoptosis-related proteins was detected via western blot. Autophagosome was investigated under a transmission electron microscope. After co-treatment with autophagy inhibitor Bafilomycin A1 or si-Beclin-1, cell apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry. Furthermore, under cotreatment with PI3K activator 740Y-P, PI3K/Akt/m-TOR pathway- and autophagy-related proteins were examined by western blot.

Results: With a concentration-dependent manner, Propofol promoted the viability of HUVECs exposed to ox-LDL, and increased LC3-II/I ratio and Beclin-1 expression, and decreased P62 expression. The formation of autophagosome was enhanced by Propofol. Furthermore, Propofol treatment elevated Bcl-2/Bax ratio and lowered Caspase-3 expression. Bafilomycin A1 or si-Beclin-1 distinctly ameliorated the inhibitory effects of Propofol on apoptosis in ox-LDL-exposed HUVECs. Moreover, Propofol lowered the activation of PI3K/Akt/m-TOR pathway in HUVECs under exposure to ox-LDL. However, its inhibitory effects were weakened by 740Y-P.

Conclusion: Collectively, this study revealed that Propofol could ameliorate ox-LDL-induced endothelial damage through enhancing autophagy via PI3K/Akt/m-TOR pathway, which might offer a novel therapeutic strategy in AS.

Expression of LncRNA DLGAP1-AS1 in a Mouse Model of Atherosclerosis and Its Effect on Oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein-Induced Vascular Endothelial Cell Injury

The occurrence of vascular endothelial injury is key to the progression of atherosclerosis (AS). This research explores the expression of lncRNA DLGAP1-AS1 in a mouse model of atherosclerosis and its effect on ox-LDL-induced vascular endothelial cell injury. A mouse model of AS was constructed, and DLGAP1-AS1 expression was detected using the nano real-time PCR method. Vascular endothelial cells (VEC) are categorized into four groups. Flow cytometry detects cell apoptosis, and Western blot detects Bax and Bcl-2 expressions; WST-8 method detects level of SOD. Thiobarbituric acid method, Ammonium molybdate colorimetric method, DCFH-DA method were used to detect MDA, CAT, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, respectively. Bioinformatics software predicted the target genes of DLGAP1-AS1. DLGAP1-AS1 expression was raised in AS mice, apoptotic rate and Bax expression in the ox-LDL group were raised, Bcl-2 expression was abated, MDA and ROS levels were raised, SOD and CAT levels were abated than in control. The si-DLGAP1-AS1+ox-LDL group decreased cell death and Bax expression, increased Bcl-2 expression, decreased MDA and ROS levels, and increased SOD and CAT levels than in the si-NC+ox-LDL group. Down-regulation of DLGAP1-AS1 was targeted in order to promote miR-26a-5p expression. Compared with co-transfection with DLGAP1-AS1 siRNA and inhibitor control, the apoptosis rate and Bax expression were increased after co-transfection with DLGAP1-AS1 siRNA and miR-26a-5p inhibitor, Bcl-2 expression was decreased, and MDA and ROS levels were increased, the level of SOD and CAT were decreased. DLGAP1-AS1 was up-regulated in AS mice and downregulated to promote miR-26a-5p to inhibit ox-LDL-induced vascular endothelial cell death and oxidative damage.

Kaempferol alleviates calcium oxalate crystal-induced renal injury and crystal deposition via regulation of the AR/NOX2 signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Calcium oxalate (CaOx) crystal deposition and crystal-induced renal tubular epithelial cell injury have been found to fundamentally contribute to the formation of CaOx nephrolithiasis.

PURPOSE

In the current work, we aim to study the role and mechanism of kaempferol in CaOx crystal kidney deposition and crystal-induced renal injury.

STUDY DESIGN

Mice models and HK-2 cells were used to investigate the effect of kaempferol in CaOx crystal-induced renal injury and crystal deposition in the kidney and its underlying mechanism by a series of experiments.

METHODS

CaOx crystal deposition in mice renal tubulars and tubular damage were evaluated. And crystal adhesion to HK-2 cells, as well as cellular injury were identified. Furthermore, the effect of kaempferol on the expression of androgen receptor (AR) in renal tubular epithelial cells was assessed. The interaction between AR and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase 2 (NOX2), and the intrinsic molecular mechanism of how AR regulated NOX2 in HK-2 cells were dissected. Additionally, several different assays were applied to analyze the expression levels of various related genes in this study.

RESULTS

It was revealed that kaempferol reduced CaOx crystal deposition in renal tubulars and crystal adhesion to HK-2 cells. Meanwhile, the results of in vivo and in vitro experiments corroborated that crystal-associated cellular injury, oxidative stress, inflammation and over-expression of OPN and CD44 in the kidney were ameliorated by kaempferol. Moreover, kaempferol functioned on inhibiting the expression of AR in renal tubular epithelial cells, and AR was able to up-regulate the expression of NOX2 at the transcriptional level by directly binding to the promoter of NOX2. Kaempferol decreased crystal deposition and crystal-induced renal oxidative and inflammatory injury by the down-regulation of AR/NOX2 signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, our study findings suggest that kaempferol has a suppressive effect on renal AR expression, which can attenuate CaOx crystal deposition and crystal-induced kidney injury through repressing oxidative stress and inflammation in the kidney by modulating the AR/NOX2 signaling pathway. It demonstrates that kaempferol may have preventive and therapeutic potential for CaOx nephrolithiasis.

Chrysin boosts KLF2 expression through suppression of endothelial cell-derived exosomal microRNA-92a in the model of atheroprotection

PURPOSE

Atherosclerosis and its related clinical complications are the leading cause of death. MicroRNA (miR)-92a in the inflammatory endothelial dysfunction leads to atherosclerosis. Krüppel-like factor 2 (KLF2) is required for vascular integrity and endothelial function maintenance. Flavonoids possess many biological properties. This study investigated the vascular protective effects of chrysin in balloon-injured carotid arteries.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Exosomes were extracted from human coronary artery endothelial cell (HCAEC) culture media. Herb flavonoids and chrysin were the treatments in these atheroprotective models. Western blotting and real-time PCRs were performed. In situ hybridization, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence analyses were employed.

RESULTS

MiR-92a increased after balloon injury and was present in HCAEC culture media. Chrysin was treated, and significantly attenuated the miR-92a levels after balloon injury, and similar results were obtained in HCAEC cultures in vitro. Balloon injury-induced miR-92a expression, and attenuated KLF2 expression. Chrysin increased the KLF2 but reduced exosomal miR-92a secretion. The addition of chrysin and antagomir-92a, neointimal formation was reduced by 44.8 and 49.0% compared with balloon injury after 14 days, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Chrysin upregulated KLF2 expression in atheroprotection and attenuated endothelial cell-derived miR-92a-containing exosomes. The suppressive effect of miR-92a suggests that chrysin plays an atheroprotective role. Proposed pathway for human coronary artery endothelial cell (HCAEC)-derived exosomes induced by chrysin to suppress microRNA (miR)-92a expression and counteract the inhibitory effect of miR-92a on KLF2 expression in HCAECs. This provides an outline of the critical role of the herbal flavonoid chrysin, which may serve as a valuable therapeutic supplement for atheroprotection.

Epigenetics and Inflammation in Diabetic Nephropathy

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) leads to high morbidity and disability. Inflammation plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of DN, which involves renal cells and immune cells, the microenvironment, as well as extrinsic factors, such as hyperglycemia, chemokines, cytokines, and growth factors. Epigenetic modifications usually regulate gene expression via DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNAs without altering the DNA sequence. During the past years, numerous studies have been published to reveal the mechanisms of epigenetic modifications that regulate inflammation in DN. This review aimed to summarize the latest evidence on the interplay of epigenetics and inflammation in DN, and highlight the potential targets for treatment and diagnosis of DN.

Integrating Network Pharmacology and Experimental Validation to Decipher the Mechanism of Action of Huanglian Jiedu Decoction in Treating Atherosclerosis

Background

This study used network pharmacology, molecular docking and experimental validation to assess the effects of Huanglian Jiedu Decoction (HLJDD) on atherosclerosis (AS).

Methods

The components and targets of HLJDD were analyzed using the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology database, and information on the genes associated with AS was retrieved from the GeneCards and OMIM platforms. Protein–protein interactions were analyzed using the STRING platform. A component–target–disease network was constructed using Cytoscape. GO and KEGG analyses were performed to identify molecular biological processes and signaling pathways, and the predictions were verified experimentally. Molecular docking was conducted with ChemOffice software, PyMOL software and Vina to verify the correlation of targets and compounds.

Results

HLJDD contained 31 active compounds, with quercetin, kaempferol, moupinamide and 5-hydroxy-7-methoxy-2-(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl)chromone as the core compounds. The most important biotargets of HLJDD in AS were ICAM-1, CD31 and RAM-11. The molecular docking results showed that the molecular docking interaction energy between the 3 key targets and the 4 high-degree components were much less than −5 kJ∙mol⁻¹. The experimental validation results showed that HLJDD might treat AS mainly by reducing TC, TG and LDL-C and increasing HDL-C, upregulating CD31 expression, reducing ICAM-1 and RAM-11 expression, and downregulating inflammatory factors, including CRP, IL-6 and TNF-α. These results support the network pharmacology data and demonstrate that HLJDD affects the expression of core genes and alters the leukocyte transendothelial migration signaling pathway.

Conclusion

Based on network pharmacology and experimental validation, our study indicated that HLJDD exerted anti-AS effect through upregulating CD31 expression and reducing the expression of ICAM-1 and RAM-11. HLJDD may be a potential therapeutic drug to the prevention of AS.

Apoptosis in HUVECs induced by microRNA-616-3p via X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein targeting

Atherosclerosis causes stroke and coronary heart disease and is associated with a high mortality rate worldwide. However, the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis remains unclear. Endothelial cell apoptosis is one of the early changes observed in atherosclerosis. Previous studies have found that microRNA (miR)-616-3p may be involved in the development of atherosclerosis, but the specific mechanism is not clear. The present study aimed to investigate whether miR-616-3p is involved in endothelial cell apoptosis and its underlying mechanism. The present study demonstrated that compared with normal HUVECs, HUVECs treated with oxidized low-density lipoprotein expressed higher miR-616-3p and lower X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP) levels. In the present study, HUVECs were transfected with miR-616-3p mimic and Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), flow cytometry and TUNEL staining assays demonstrated that compared with miR-616-3p mimic control, the miR-616-3p mimic promoted HUVEC apoptosis. In addition, using StarBase 3.0 for bioinformatics analysis it was predicted that miR-616-3p may bind to the 3'untranslated region (UTR) of XIAP mRNA. The present study performed the CCK-8, flow cytometry, TUNEL staining and dual-luciferase reporter assays and demonstrated that miR-616-3p binds to the 3'UTR of the XIAP mRNA and inhibits its expression and that this further promotes apoptosis in HUVECs. In addition, western blotting demonstrated that compared with miR-616-3p mimic control, the miR-616-3p mimic increases the level of cleaved caspase-3 in HUVECs. In summary, the present study demonstrated that miR-616-3p can directly inhibit the expression of XIAP mRNA by targeting its 3'UTR which promoted apoptosis in HUVECs. miR-616-3p and XIAP may be used as therapeutic targets of atherosclerosis in the future.

LncRNA OIP5-AS1 accelerates ox-LDL-treated HUVECs injury by NF-κB pathway via miR-30c-5p

BACKGROUND

Oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) could induce endothelial injury and played a vital role in the progression and development of atherosclerosis. This study aimed to investigate the role of Opa-interacting protein 5 antisense RNA 1 (OIP5-AS1) in ox-LDL-induced human umbilical vascular endothelial cells (HUVECs) injury and the potential mechanisms.

METHODS

Cell proliferation and apoptosis were evaluated by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay and flow cytometry assay, respectively. The levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and nitric oxide (NO) were detected by corresponding detection kits, respectively. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was conducted to measure the expression of OIP5-AS1 or microRNA-30c-5p (miR-30c-5p) in HUVECs. Binding between OIP5-AS1 and miR-30c-5p was predicted through bioinformatics analysis and confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP). Western blot was used to analyze p-IκB, IκB, p-p65 and p65 levels.

RESULTS

In HUVECs, exposure to ox-LDL led to a decrease in cell viability and an increase in LDH release and apoptosis with concomitant enhancement of oxidative stress, as evidenced by increased ROS and MDA generation, as well as decreased SOD activity and NO levels, while OIP5-AS1 knockdown or miR-30c-5p upregulation could rescue these effects above. Mechanically, OIP5-AS1 functioned as a sponge of miR-30c-5p. OIP5-AS1-induced injury and apoptosis, oxidative stress and activation of NF-κB pathway were reversed by miR-30c-5p in ox-LDL-treated HUVECs.

CONCLUSION

OIP5-AS1 contributed to ox-LDL-treated HUVECs injury by activation of NF-κB pathway via miR-30c-5p.

Kaempferol alleviates human endothelial cell injury through circNOL12/miR-6873-3p/FRS2 axis

BACKGROUND

Atherosclerosis, inflammatory disease, is a major reason for cardiovascular diseases and stroke. Kaempferol (Kae) has been well-documented to have pharmacological activities in the previous studies. However, the detailed mechanisms by which Kae regulates inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis in Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells (HUVECs) remain unknown.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was used to measure expression levels of circNOL12, nucleolar protein 12 (NOL12), miR-6873-3p, and Fibroblast growth factor receptor substrate 2 (FRS2) in HUVECs treated with either oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) alone or in combination with Kae. The cells viability was assessed by 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazol-3-ium bromide (MTT) assay. The inflammation and oxidative stress were assessed by checking inflammatory factors, Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), and Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in ox-LDL-induced HUVECs. The apoptotic cells were quantified by flow cytometry assay. The western blot assay was used for measuring protein expression. The interaction relationship between miR-6873-3p and circNOL12 or FRS2 was analyzed by dual-luciferase reporter and RNA pull-down assays. Treatment with Kae could inhibit ox-LDL-induced the upregulation of circNOL12 in HUVECs. Importantly, Kae weakened ox-LDL-induced inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis in HUVECs, which was abolished by overexpression of circNOL12. What's more, miR-6873-3p was a target of circNOL12 in HUVECs, and the upregulation of miR-6873-3p overturned circNOL12 overexpression-induced effects on HUVECs treated with ox-LDL and Kae. FRS2 was negatively regulated by miR-6873-3p in HUVECs.

CONCLUSION

Kae alleviated ox-LDL-induced inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis in HUVECs by regulating circNOL12/miR-6873-3p/FRS2 axis.

Deregulated miRNA expression is associated with endothelial dysfunction in post-mortem lung biopsies of COVID-19 patients

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are critical modulators of endothelial homeostasis, which highlights their involvement in vascular diseases, including those caused by virus infections. Our main objective was to identify miRNAs involved in the endothelial function and determine their expression in post-mortem lung biopsies of COVID-19 patients with severe respiratory injuries and thrombotic events. Based on functional enrichment analysis, miR-26a-5p, miR-29b-3p, and miR-34a-5p were identified as regulators of mRNA targets involved in endothelial and inflammatory signaling pathways, as well as viral diseases. A miRNA/mRNA network, constructed based on protein-protein interactions of the miRNA targets and the inflammatory biomarkers characterized in the patients, revealed a close interconnection of these miRNAs in association to the endothelial activation/dysfunction. Reduced expression levels of selected miRNAs were observed in the lung biopsies of COVID-19 patients (n = 9) compared to the Controls (n = 10) (P < 0.01-0.0001). MiR-26a-5p and miR-29b-3p presented the best power to discriminate these groups (area under the curve (AUC) = 0.8286, and AUC = 0.8125, respectively). The correlation analysis of the miRNAs with inflammatory biomarkers in the COVID-19 patients was significant for miR-26a-5p [IL-6 (r2 = 0.5414), and ICAM-1 (r2 = 0.5624)], and miR-29b-3p [IL-4 (r2 = 0.8332) and IL-8 (r2 = 0.2654)]. Altogether, these findings demonstrate the relevance and the non-random involvement of miR-26a-5p, miR-29b-3p, and miR-34a-5p in endothelial dysfunction and inflammatory response in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection and the occurrence of severe lung injury and immunothrombosis.

Polyphenols in the Mediterranean Diet: From Dietary Sources to microRNA Modulation

It is now well established that polyphenols are a class of natural substance that offers numerous health benefits; they are present in all plants in very different quantities and types. On the other hand, their bioavailability, and efficacy is are not always well proven. Therefore, this work aims to discuss some types of polyphenols belonging to Mediterranean foods. We chose six polyphenols-(1) Naringenin, (2) Apigenin, (3) Kaempferol, (4) Hesperidin, (5) Ellagic Acid and (6) Oleuropein-present in Mediterranean foods, describing dietary source and their chemistry, as well as their pharmacokinetic profile and their use as nutraceuticals/supplements, in addition to the relevant element of their capability in modulating microRNAs expression profile.

Total flavonoids of Radix Tetrastigma suppress inflammation-related hepatocellular carcinoma cell metastasis

This study aimed to investigate the effects of the total flavonoids of Radix Tetrastigma (RTF) on inflammation-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development. Extracted RTF was diluted to different concentrations for subsequent experiments. HCC cells were cotreated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and RTF to investigate the effects of RTF on LPS-stimulated HCC cells. A CCK-8 kit was used to measure cell proliferation. Apoptosis was detected with a flow cytometer. Cell migration and invasion were quantified by wound healing and Transwell assays, respectively. The expression of TLR4 and COX-2 and activation of the NF-κB pathway were determined by Western blotting. Treatment with LPS significantly enhanced cell proliferation and decreased the apoptosis rate, while cell migration and invasion were notably upregulated. RTF suppressed the proliferation and invasion induced by LPS stimulation and promoted HCC cell apoptosis. The protein levels of Bax and cleaved caspase-3 were decreased and that of Bcl-2 was increased by LPS in HCC cells, which could be rescued by RTF. RTF significantly inhibited the LPS-induced expression of the proinflammatory mediators IL-6 and IL-8 in HCC cells. Mechanistically, with RTF treatment, the upregulated expression of TLR4 and COX-2 induced by LPS was obviously downregulated. Furthermore, the phosphorylation of NF-κB/p65 was significantly decreased in LPS-stimulated cells after supplementation with RTF. Our study suggests that RTF exerts a significant inhibitory effect on the LPS-induced enhancement of the malignant behaviors of HCC cells via inactivation of TLR4/NF-κB signaling. RTF may be a promising chemotherapeutic agent to limit HCC development and inflammation-mediated metastasis.

Ethanol Extract of Campsis grandiflora Flower and Its Organic Acid Components Have Inhibitory Effects on Autoinducer Type 1 Quorum Sensing

Chinese herbs are a useful resource bank for natural drug development, and have attracted considerable attention to exploit quorum sensing inhibitors (QSIs). This study was designed to screen QSIs from raw Chinese herb materials. Of the 38 common herbs examined, the ethanol extract of Campsis grandiflora flower had the strongest QSI activity. The C. grandiflora flower ethanol extract (CFEE) was purified by HPD600, and the QSI activities were examined in further detail. CFEE inhibited violacein production of Chromobacterium violaceum 026 in a dose-dependent manner, and inhibit the swarming abilities of Escherichia coli K-12 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1. Furthermore, CFEE could inhibited biofilm formation and destroyed mature biofilms of E. coli K-12 and P. aeruginosa PAO1. The composition of CFEE was determined by UPLC-MS/MS to distinguish active QSI compounds, and 21 compounds were identified. In addition to gallic acid and caffeic acid, two organic acids, malic acid and succinic acid, were confirmed for the first time to have autoinducer type 1 QSI activities. Therefore, CFEE is a potential QSI that could be used as a novel antimicrobial agent and should be considered for medicinal development.

Flavonoids in adipose tissue inflammation and atherosclerosis: one arrow, two targets

Flavonoids are polyphenolic compounds naturally occurring in fruits and vegetables, in addition to beverages such as tea and coffee. Flavonoids are emerging as potent therapeutic agents for cardiovascular as well as metabolic diseases. Several studies corroborated an inverse relationship between flavonoid consumption and cardiovascular disease (CVD) or adipose tissue inflammation (ATI). Flavonoids exert their anti-atherogenic effects by increasing nitric oxide (NO), reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS), and decreasing pro-inflammatory cytokines. In addition, flavonoids alleviate ATI by decreasing triglyceride and cholesterol levels, as well as by attenuating inflammatory mediators. Furthermore, flavonoids inhibit synthesis of fatty acids and promote their oxidation. In this review, we discuss the effect of the main classes of flavonoids, namely flavones, flavonols, flavanols, flavanones, anthocyanins, and isoflavones, on atherosclerosis and ATI. In addition, we dissect the underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms of action for these flavonoids. We conclude by supporting the potential benefit for flavonoids in the management or treatment of CVD; yet, we call for more robust clinical studies for safety and pharmacokinetic values.

Upregulation of miR-223 abrogates NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis to attenuate oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL)-induced cell death in human vascular endothelial cells (ECs)

MiR-223 is closely associated with pathogenesis of coronary artery disease (CAD); however, the molecular mechanisms are unclear. In the present study, the human vascular endothelial cells (ECs) were isolated from patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft and treated with oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) to induce cellular CAD models in vitro. We found that ox-LDL inhibited cell proliferation and viability, and promoted cell apoptosis in ECs. Of note, ox-LDL promoted cell pyroptosis, and both the pyroptosis inhibitor necrosulfonamide (NSA) and NLRP3 ablation restored cell viability in ECs treated with ox-LDL, indicating that ox-LDL induced EC death by triggering cell pyroptosis. In addition, miR-223 was downregulated by ox-LDL in ECs, and miR-223 overexpression rescued cell viability in ECs treated with ox-LDL. Interestingly, there existed targeting sites in miR-223 and 3' untranslated regions (3' UTRs) of NLRP3 mRNA, and further experiments validated that miR-223 negatively regulated NLRP3 expressions in ECs at both transcriptional and translational levels. Finally, we verified that upregulation of NLRP3 abrogated the protective effects of miR-223 overexpression on ox-LDL-treated ECs. Collectively, this in vitro study proved that overexpression of miR-223 protected ox-LDL-stimulated ECs from death through inactivating NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptotic cell death.

Inhibiting Rab27a in renal tubular epithelial cells attenuates the inflammation of diabetic kidney disease through the miR-26a-5p/CHAC1/NF-kB pathway

The effect of exosomes on receptor cells participating in intercellular communication has been extensively studied, but the effect of exosomes on donor cells remains unclear. It has been reported that exosomes secreted by renal proximal tubular epithelial cells (PTECs) under different stimuli accelerate acute and chronic kidney diseases. This study aimed to explore whether inhibiting exosomal secretion in PTECs by knocking out Rab27a, a key exosome regulatory gene, inhibits the excessive inflammatory response in PTECs and delays diabetic kidney disease (DKD). First, we proved that the bovine serum albumin (BSA)-induced inflammatory response in HK-2 cells was inhibited by knocking out Rab27a and that Rab27a, IL-6, TNF-α and COL-1 expression was markedly increased in an HFD/STZ-induced diabetic mouse model. Furthermore, miR-26a-5p expression in exosomes secreted by BSA-treated HK-2 cells was significantly increased but correspondingly decreased in the cells; after knocking out Rab27a, miR-26a-5p levels in the cells rebounded. Next, we confirmed that a miR-26a-5p mimic suppressed the inflammatory response, while a miR-26a-5p inhibitor accelerated the inflammatory response. Then, we found that miR-26a-5p targets the 3'-untranslated region (UTR) of CHAC1. Furthermore, the inflammatory response and NF-κB signalling pathway activation induction by the miR-26a-5p inhibitor were abolished by CHAC1 knockout. Therefore, we conclude that inhibiting exosome secretion by BSA-induced PTECs promotes miR-26a-5p expression in cells, thereby inhibiting the CHAC1/NF-κB pathways to prevent the inflammatory response in PTECs and delaying the development of DKD. This study provides new insight into the pathogenic mechanism of exosomes and a new therapeutic target for DKD.

The Role of Toll-like Receptors in Atherothrombotic Cardiovascular Disease

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are dominant components of the innate immune system. Activated by both pathogen-associated molecular patterns and damage-associated molecular patterns, TLRs underpin the pathology of numerous inflammation related diseases that include not only immune diseases, but also cardiovascular disease (CVD), diabetes, obesity, and cancers. Growing evidence has demonstrated that TLRs are involved in multiple cardiovascular pathophysiologies, such as atherosclerosis and hypertension. Specifically, a trial called the Canakinumab Anti-inflammatory Thrombosis Outcomes Study showed the use of an antibody that neutralizes interleukin-1β, reduces the recurrence of cardiovascular events, demonstrating inflammation as a therapeutic target and also the research value of targeting the TLR system in CVD. In this review, we provide an update of the interplay between TLR signaling, inflammatory mediators, and atherothrombosis, with an aim to identify new therapeutic targets for atherothrombotic CVD.

Asiaticoside attenuates neonatal hypoxic-ischemic brain damage through inhibiting TLR4/NF-κB/STAT3 pathway

Background

Neonatal hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is currently a leading cause of neonatal death. Asiaticoside (AT), a bioactive constituent isolated from Centella asiatica, possesses numerous biological properties. For instance, previous studies showed that AT could protect ischemia hypoxia neurons by mediating BCL-2 protein. However, the roles and underlying mechanisms of AT in neonatal HIE have not been clarified.

Methods

Rice-Vannucci was applied to construct a hypoxic-ischemic brain damage (HIBD) model. Pathological damage of brain neuron tissue was determined by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, while apoptosis was evaluated by terminal-deoxynucleoitidyl transferase nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining. Western blot and immunohistochemistry were applied to monitor related proteins levels. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was conducted to measure the expression levels of inflammatory cytokines.

Results

The present study indicated that AT dose-dependently ameliorated histologic damage and inhibited apoptosis induced by hypoxic ischemia (HI) (P<0.01). AT also dose-dependently alleviated oxidative damage and reduced the levels of proinflammatory cytokines (ICAM-1, IL-18, and IL-1β) and TLR4 level. In terms of mechanism, decrease of TLR and IL-18 suppressed NF-κB phosphorylation and reduced the levels of TNFα, IL-6, and p-STAT3, leading to the inactivation of NF-κB/STAT3 pathway. Interestingly, with the addition of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), the increase of TLR4 activated NF-κB/STAT3 pathway again.

Conclusions

Collectively, the data provide insight into a novel mechanism by which AT may be an effective agent for HIE via the TLR4/NF-κB/STAT3 pathway.

Circulating microRNAs as biomarkers for severe coronary artery disease

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the second leading cause of death after stroke in China. Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) significantly improves the prognosis of CAD patients. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic value of circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) in patients with severe CAD requiring PCI. The plasma miRNA profiles were determined using miRNA microarray. The relative expression levels of differentially expressed miRNA were measured by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Nine miRNAs (ebv-miR-BART12, ebv-miR-BART16, let-7i-5p, miR-130a-3p, miR-26a-5p, miR-3149, miR-3152-3p, miR-32-3p, and miR-149-3p) were differentially expressed between severe CAD and control groups. Four miRNAs (let-7i-5p, miR-32-3p, miR-3149, and miR-26a-5p) validated by qRT-PCR showed good diagnostic accuracy, with the area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs) of 0.634 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.528-0.739), 0.745 (95%CI 0.649-0.84), 0.795 (95%CI 0.709-0.88), and 0.818 (95%CI 0.739-0.897), respectively. Furthermore, the combination of these 4 miRNAs exhibited better diagnostic performance compared with any individual miRNA, with an AUC of 0.837 (95%CI 0.763-0.911). These data indicate that plasma let-7i-5p, miR-32-3p, miR-3149, and miR-26a-5p have promising diagnostic value for severe CAD.

MicroRNA-497 functions as an inflammatory suppressor via targeting DDX3Y and modulating toll-like receptor 4/NF-κB in cigarette smoke extract-stimulated human bronchial epithelial cells

BACKGROUND

We aimed to investigate the biological effect of miR-497 in cigarette smoke extract (CSE)-damaged human bronchial epithelial (HBE) cells and the underlying molecular mechanism.

METHODS

MiR-497 mimic was transfected into HBE cells to up-regulate miR-497 expression. Cigarette smoke extract (CSE, 20 μg/mL) was utilized to treat HBE cells to form the injury model. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were detected by CCK8 and flow cytometry assays. DDX3Y mRNA expression was determined by a quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. The interaction between miR-497 and DDX3Y was verified by a luciferase reporter assay. Protein expression levels were tested by western blotting.

RESULTS

CSE treatment decreased miR-497 level in HBE cells. CSE exposure restrained cell proliferation, promoted cell apoptosis and enhanced the relative expression of TLR4 and p-NF-κB p65. DDX3Y was predicted as a target of miR-497. The mRNA and protein expression of DDX3Y was negatively modulated by miR-497 in CSE-injured HBE cells. Up-regulation of miR-497 by miR-497 mimic increased cell proliferation and reduced cell apoptosis in CSE-treated HBE cells, which were rescued by DDX3Y high expression in CSE-treated HBE cells. Consistently, Bcl-2 protein level was heightened, whereas Bax and actived caspase-3/9 protein levels were decreased by miR-497 mimic in CSE-stimulated HBE cells, which was reversed by DDX3Y over-expression in CSE-stimulated HBE cells. The relative expression of TLR4 and p-NF-κB p65 was decreased by miR-497 mimic, whereas they were rescued by DDX3Y over-expression in CSE-damaged HBE cells.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the present study demonstrate that up-regulation of miR-497 exhibits a protective effect on CSE-damaged HBE cells, which might be achieved by targeting DDX3Y and regulating the TLR4/NF-κB pathway.

Oxidized Low Density Lipoprotein-Induced Atherogenic Response of Human Umbilical Vascular Endothelial Cells (HUVECs) was Protected by Atorvastatin by Regulating miR-26a-5p/Phosphatase and Tensin Homolog (PTEN)

Background

Atherosclerosis is a chronic and multifactorial disease, and it is the main reason of coronary heart disease, cerebral infarction, and peripheral vascular disease, which leads to the formation of lesions in arterial blood vessels. Our study aimed to explore the protective effect and its underlying mechanism of atorvastatin (ATV) on oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL)-induced atherosclerosis.

Material/Methods

Human umbilical vascular endothelial cells (HUVECs) were cultured and pretreated with ox-LDL to establish an in vitro atherosclerotic cell model. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, TUNEL staining, and Transwell assay were used to detect the cell activity, apoptosis, and migration in HUVECs. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blot were applied to measure the mRNA and protein expressions of adhesion-related genes in HUVECs.

Results

Pretreated with 100 mg/L ox-LDL resulted in a 57.23% decrease of cell viability and 81.09% increase of apoptotic injury in HUVECs compare to the control. Meanwhile, ox-LDL pretreatment increased the cell migration and the expression of miR-26a-5p in HUVECs. ATV treatment could effectively reverse the cellular damage induced by ox-LDL, decrease the release of adhesion-related molecules, and downregulate the expression of miR-26a-5p by 44.79% in HUVECs. Moreover, phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) was demonstrated to be the target gene of miR-26a-5p.

Conclusions

Our results highlight that ATV protects against ox-LDL-induced downregulation of cell viability, upregulation of cell apoptosis, migration, as well as the release of adhesion-related molecules in HUVECs through the miR-26a-5p/PTEN axis. This study provides new insights into the underlying mechanism of ATV therapeutic potential in atherosclerosis, and also provides a new strategy for the treatment of atherosclerosis.