Resistin is secreted from macrophages in atheromas and promotes atherosclerosis

Resistin - A Plausible Therapeutic Target in the Pathogenesis of Psoriasis

Resistin, a cytokine hormone predominantly secreted by adipose tissue, is elevated in various metabolic disorders such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. In addition to its involvement in metabolic regulation, resistin has been implicated in the pathogenesis of psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory skin disorder. Numerous studies have reported increased resistin levels in psoriatic skin lesions, suggesting a possible association between resistin and psoriasis. Recent studies have suggested the potential involvement of resistin in the development and progression of certain cancers. Resistin is overexpressed in breast, colorectal, and gastric cancers. This suggests that it may play a role in the development of these cancers, possibly by inducing inflammation and cell growth. The link between resistin and cancer raises the possibility of shared underlying mechanisms driving the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Chronic inflammation, one such mechanism, is a hallmark of psoriasis and cancer. Further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between resistin and psoriasis. Identifying potential therapeutic targets is crucial for effective management of psoriasis. By doing so, we may be able to develop more effective treatment options for individuals living with psoriasis and ultimately improve their quality of life. Ultimately, a more comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms underlying the impact of resistin on psoriasis is essential for advancing our knowledge and finding new ways to treat and manage this challenging condition.

Ameliorating impact of coenzyme Q10 on the profile of adipokines, cardiomyopathy, and hematological markers correlated with the glucotoxicity sequelae in diabetic rats

BACKGROUND

In diabetes, high blood glucose induces glucotoxicity, resulting in the further damage of pancreatic beta-cells and then precipitating diabetic complications. This study was aimed to investigate the relationship between glucotoxicity with the level of adipokines, diabetic cardiomyopathy, and hematological markers. Moreover, the study examined the potential modulatory effect of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) on the aforementioned markers associated with the sequelae of diabetes mellitus.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Twenty-four male rats were randomly assigned to receive an injection of STZ to induce diabetes (n = 16) or to remain uninduced (n = 8). The hyperglycemic status was induced in fasting rats by single intraperitoneal injection of STZ (45 mg /kg b.w.) dissolved in citrate buffer (pH 4.5). Three days after STZ injection, rats were divided into three groups; Normal control group (A), Diabetic control group (B), and CoQ10- treated diabetic group (C). The group (C) was fed with the basal diet supplemented with 5 g of CoQ10 per kilogram of diet for three weeks after the diabetes induction. After 21 days, the blood and serum samples were taken to conduct biochemical analyses. Blood glucose was determined by Blood Glucose Monitoring System. Adipokines or cytokines were evaluated by ELISA from a serum sample. Cardiac myopathy biomarkers were estimated by UP-Converting Phosphor Immunoassay Analyzer, and hematological parameters were measured by automatic hematology analyzer.

RESULTS

In hyperglycemic rats, the level of fasting blood glucose, and serum level of resistin, omentin, TNF-α, and cardiomyopathy biomarkers significantly increased (P < 0.05). The treatment with CoQ10 significantly decreased the profile of adipokines and cardiomyopathy markers (cardiac enzymes and LPPLA2) in diabetic rats and also reduced glucose levels (P < 0.05). Lymphocyte percentages significantly decreased while significant increases were observed in granulocytes and MID percentages in hyperglycemic rats.

CONCLUSION

Diabetic rats had higher serum levels of adipokines and cardiomyopathy markers. Among the hematological markers, GRA% and MID% increased while LYM% decreased. The profile of adipokines and cardiomyopathy markers improved when CoQ10 was supplemented. The study suggests that CoQ10 may have a beneficial effect on improving diabetic complications.

Intermittent fasting favorably modulates adipokines and potentially attenuates atherosclerosis

Adipose tissue is now recognized as an endocrine organ that secretes bioactive molecules called adipokines. These biomolecules regulate key physiological functions, including insulin sensitivity, energy metabolism, appetite regulation, endothelial function and immunity. Dysregulated secretion of adipokines is intimately associated with obesity, and translates into increased risk of obesity-related cardiovasculo-metabolic diseases. In particular, emerging evidence suggests that adipokine imbalance contributes to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. One of the promising diet regimens that is beneficial in the fight against obesity and cardiometabolic disorders is intermittent fasting (IF). Indeed, IF robustly suppresses inflammation, meditates weight loss and mitigates many aspects of the cardiometabolic syndrome. In this paper, we review the main adipokines and their role in atherosclerosis, which remains a major contributor to cardiovascular-associated morbidity and mortality. We further discuss how IF can be employed as an effective management modality for obesity-associated atherosclerosis. By exploring a plethora of the beneficial effects of IF, particularly on inflammatory markers, we present IF as a possible intervention to help prevent atherosclerosis.

Regulation of cardiovascular health and disease by visceral adipose tissue-derived metabolic hormones

Visceral adipose tissue (VAT) is a metabolic organ known to regulate fat mass, and glucose and nutrient homeostasis. VAT is an active endocrine gland that synthesizes and secretes numerous bioactive mediators called 'adipocytokines/adipokines' into systemic circulation. These adipocytokines act on organs of metabolic importance like the liver and skeletal muscle. Multiple preclinical and in vitro studies showed strong evidence of the roles of adipocytokines in the regulation of metabolic disorders like diabetes, obesity and insulin resistance. Adipocytokines, such as adiponectin and omentin, are anti-inflammatory and have been shown to prevent atherogenesis by increasing nitric oxide (NO) production by the endothelium, suppressing endothelium-derived inflammation and decreasing foam cell formation. By inhibiting differentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) into osteoblasts, adiponectin and omentin prevent vascular calcification. On the other hand, adipocytokines like leptin and resistin induce inflammation and endothelial dysfunction that leads to vasoconstriction. By promoting VSMC migration and proliferation, extracellular matrix degradation and inflammatory polarization of macrophages, leptin and resistin increase the risk of atherosclerotic plaque vulnerability and rupture. Additionally, the plasma concentrations of these adipocytokines alter in ageing, rendering older humans vulnerable to cardiovascular disease. The disturbances in the normal physiological concentrations of these adipocytokines secreted by VAT under pathological conditions impede the normal functions of various organs and affect cardiovascular health. These adipokines could be used for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes in cardiovascular disease.

Changes in the Secretion of Melatonin and Selected Adipokines during the Progression of Parkinson's Disease-Preliminary Studies

Parkinson's disease (PD) is one of the most common neurodegenerative diseases affecting elderly people. Considering the gap in the literature on melatonin and adipokine levels in PD patients at various stages of the disease, we conducted a study to investigate the levels of selected parameters in PD patients at the disease's early (ES) and advanced (AS) stages. Melatonin, leptin, adiponectin, and resistin concentrations were measured in the blood serum of 20 PD patients without dyskinesia (ES), 24 PD patients with dyskinesia (AS), and 20 healthy volunteers as a control group (CG). The data were analyzed using ANOVA. Melatonin was significantly lower in ES (p < 0.05) and higher in AS patients (p < 0.05) compared to CG. The level of leptin was increased both in ES (p < 0.001) and AS (p < 0.001) versus CG, while resistin was increased only in patients with dyskinesia (p < 0.05). Higher melatonin (p < 0.001) and resistin (p < 0.05) and lower leptin (p < 0.05) levels were found in AS versus ES. The main findings of the study include the changes in inflammatory markers' levels during PD and a surprising increase in melatonin level in dyskinesia patients. Further research is necessary, which will be aimed at modulating the secretion of melatonin and adipokines as a treatment target for PD.

Influence of Pre-Pregnancy Obesity on Carbohydrate and Lipid Metabolism with Selected Adipokines in the Maternal and Fetal Compartment

A higher body mass index (BMI) before pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of maternal and perinatal complications. This study aimed to analyze selected parameters of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, including adipokines, in obese pre-pregnant women, and their influence on the birth weight of newborns.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study group (O) consisted of 34 pregnant women with higher BMI (obese) before pregnancy. The control group (C) was 27 pregnant women with target BMI and physiological pregnancy. The BMI index: body weight [kg]/(height [m]² was assessed on the first obstetrical visit. The research material was the serum of pregnant women collected in the third trimester of pregnancy and umbilical cord blood collected immediately after delivery. Selected parameters of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism and adipokines were determined.

RESULTS

There were no statistically significant differences between the study group and the control group concerning the concentrations of insulin, glucose, VLDL, adiponectin, TNF-α, HOMA-IR, as well as LDH and cholesterol in maternal blood serum and umbilical cord blood serum. Total cholesterol and HDL in both maternal blood serum and umbilical cord blood were statistically significantly lower than those in the control group. The concentration of triglycerides (TG) and resistin in the blood serum of obese mothers were higher than those in the control group (p < 0.05). However, no statistically significant differences were found between the two groups regarding the concentrations of TG and resistin in the umbilical cord blood. The concentration of LDL cholesterol in the umbilical blood serum in the obese group was statistically significantly lower than that in the control group. The concentration of leptin in maternal blood serum and umbilical cord blood serum in the study group was statistically significantly higher than that in the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Pregestational obesity does not substantially affect the basic parameters of carbohydrate metabolism in pregnant women, but it disturbs the lipid profile, which is manifested by a significant increase in triglycerides and a decrease in the level of HDL cholesterol in the serum. Preexisting obesity increases the concentration of leptin and resistin in the serum of pregnant women, which may be caused by the increased volume of adipose tissue. The concentrations of leptin and resistin in the blood of pregnant women correlate positively, and the concentrations of adiponectin and TNF-α negatively correlate with pre-pregnancy BMI values. There is a positive correlation between the concentration of leptin in the serum of umbilical cord blood and the birth weight of the newborn, which suggests that this parameter contributes to the pathomechanism of macrosomia.

Inflammation, stress and depression: An exploration of ketamine's therapeutic profile

Well-established animal models of depression have described a proximal relationship between stress and central nervous system (CNS) inflammation - a relationship mirrored in the peripheral inflammatory biomarkers of individuals with depression. Evidence also suggests that stress-induced proinflammatory states can contribute to the neurobiology of treatment-resistant depression. Interestingly, ketamine, a rapid-acting antidepressant, can partially exert its therapeutic effects via anti-inflammatory actions on the hypothalamic-pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis, the kynurenine pathway or by cytokine suppression. Further investigations into the relationship between ketamine, inflammation and stress could provide insight into ketamine's unique therapeutic mechanisms and stimulate efforts to develop rapid-acting, anti-inflammatory-based antidepressants.

Identification and verification of feature biomarkers associated with immune cells in neonatal sepsis

BACKGROUND

Neonatal sepsis (NS), a life-threatening condition, is characterized by organ dysfunction and is the most common cause of neonatal death. However, the pathogenesis of NS is unclear and the clinical inflammatory markers currently used are not ideal for diagnosis of NS. Thus, exploring the link between immune responses in NS pathogenesis, elucidating the molecular mechanisms involved, and identifying potential therapeutic targets is of great significance in clinical practice. Herein, our study aimed to explore immune-related genes in NS and identify potential diagnostic biomarkers. Datasets for patients with NS and healthy controls were downloaded from the GEO database; GSE69686 and GSE25504 were used as the analysis and validation datasets, respectively. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) was performed to determine their biological functions. Composition of immune cells was determined and immune-related genes (IRGs) between the two clusters were identified and their metabolic pathways were determined. Key genes with correlation coefficient > 0.5 and p < 0.05 were selected as screening biomarkers. Logistic regression models were constructed based on the selected biomarkers, and the diagnostic models were validated.

RESULTS

Fifty-two DEGs were identified, and GSEA indicated involvement in acute inflammatory response, bacterial detection, and regulation of macrophage activation. Most infiltrating immune cells, including activated CD8 + T cells, were significantly different in patients with NS compared to the healthy controls. Fifty-four IRGs were identified, and GSEA indicated involvement in immune response and macrophage activation and regulation of T cell activation. Diagnostic models of DEGs containing five genes (PROS1, TDRD9, RETN, LOC728401, and METTL7B) and IRG with one gene (NSUN7) constructed using LASSO algorithm were validated using the GPL6947 and GPL13667 subset datasets, respectively. The IRG model outperformed the DEG model. Additionally, statistical analysis suggested that risk scores may be related to gestational age and birth weight, regardless of sex.

CONCLUSIONS

We identified six IRGs as potential diagnostic biomarkers for NS and developed diagnostic models for NS. Our findings provide a new perspective for future research on NS pathogenesis.

Angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1) blockade by Telmisartan attenuates hepatic steatosis in high-fat fed mice reducing Resistin, TRL4, and Myd88 expression

Background

Telmisartan is a non-peptide angiotensin II receptor antagonist which acts by ACE/AngII/AT1 axis blockade (ARB). In the last years increasing evidence of its metabolic benefits pointed out this drug as the most promising ARB for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) treatment. The aim of the present study was to investigate the Telmisartan effect on treating NAFLD in mice fed with a high-fat diet evaluating liver gene modulation. Twenty-four male mice were divided into four groups and fed for 60 days with a standard diet (ST), standard diet plus TEL (ST+TEL 5 mg/kg/day by gavage for 4 weeks), high-fat diet (HFD), or high-fat diet plus TEL (HFD+TEL 5 mg/kg/day by gavage for 4 weeks). Body weight, lipid profile, insulin, alanine transaminase, and aspartate aminotransferase were evaluated. Liver histology was analyzed. US imaging was performed to access liver dimension and echogenicity and also epididymal fat pad thickness. The expression of proinflammatory resistin/TRL4/MYD88 pathway was analyzed.

Results

The main findings showed that TEL reduced the resistin, TRL4, and Myd88 liver expression in the HFD + TEL group when compared to the obese control group (HFD). Decreased hepatic steatosis in the HFD + TEL group demonstrated by US measurements of the liver longitudinal axis and echogenicity were observed. In addition, TEL reduced epididymal adipose pad thickness, body weight, transaminases, and improved glucose tolerance test and HDL cholesterol.

Conclusions

We observed that Telmisartan treatment improved metabolism, decreasing NAFLD.

Graphical Abstract

Telmisartan improves metabolic and lipid profile and liver steatosis of obese mice

Perivascular adipose tissue in autoimmune rheumatic diseases

Perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) resides at the outermost boundary of the vascular wall, surrounding most conduit blood vessels, except for the cerebral vessels, in humans. A growing body of evidence suggests that inflammation localized within PVAT may contribute to the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases (ARDs), e.g., systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriasis, etc., exhibit heightened systemic inflammation and are at increased risk for CVD. Data from clinical studies in patients with ARDs support a linkage between dysfunctional adipose tissue, and PVAT in particular, in disease pathogenesis. Here, we review the data linking PVAT to the pathogenesis of CVD in patients with ARDs, focusing on the role of novel PVAT imaging techniques in defining disease risk and responses to biological therapies.

The Molecular Mechanisms of Ferroptosis and Its Role in Blood-Brain Barrier Dysfunction

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a selective, semi-permeable layer of endothelial cells that protects the central nervous system from harmful substances circulating in blood. It is one of the important barriers of the nervous system. BBB dysfunction is an early pathophysiological change observed in nervous system diseases. There are few treatments for BBB dysfunction, so this motivates the review. Ferroptosis is a novel cell death mode caused by iron-mediated lipid peroxidation accumulation, which has recently attracted more attention due to its possible role in nervous system disorders. Studies have shown that lipid peroxidation and iron accumulation are related to the barrier dysfunction, especially the expression of tight junction proteins. Therefore, examination of the relationship between ferroptosis and BBB dysfunction may reveal new targets for the treatment of brain diseases.

Adipocytokines: Emerging therapeutic targets for pain management

Although pain has lower mortality rates than cancer, diabetes and stroke, pain is a predominate source of distress and disability. However, the management of pain remains an enormous problem. Many drugs used to pain treatment have more or less side effects. Therefore, the development of novel therapeutic target is critical for the treatment of pain. Notably, studies have shown that adipocytokines have a dual role in pain. Growing shreds of evidence shows that the levels of adipocytokines are upregulated or downregulated in the development of pain. In addition, substantial evidence indicates that regulation of adipocytokines levels in models of pain attenuates or promotes pain behaviors. In this review, we summarized and discussed the effect of adipocytokines in pain. These evidence indicates that adipocytokines attenuate or promote pain behaviors through interacting with their receptors, activating serotonin pathway, interacting with μ-opioid receptor, activating microglia, infiltrating macrophage and so on. Overall, adipocytokines have some potential in treating pain, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear and need to be further studied.

The Role of the Adipokine Resistin in the Pathogenesis and Progression of Epithelial Ovarian Cancer

Obesity is a civilization disease associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and some malignancies. The results concerning the relationship between obesity and epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) are inconclusive. The higher incidence of neoplasms in obese subjects has led to the development of the adipokine hypothesis. Omental adipocyte cells interact with cancer cells, promoting their migration and metastasis via the secretion of adipokines, growth factors, and hormones. One of the adipokines is resistin. It was shown in vitro that resistin stimulates the growth and differentiation of ovarian cancer cells. Moreover, it increases the level of angiogenesis factors, e.g., matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) and vascular epithelial growth factor (VEGF). Additionally, resistin induces epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and stemness in EOC cell lines. A positive correlation has been shown between a higher level of resistin expression and the stage of histological differentiation of EOC or the occurrence of lymph node metastases. In addition, the overexpression of resistin has been found to act as an independent factor determining disease-free survival as well as overall survival in EOC patients. Growing evidence supports the finding that resistin plays an important role in some mechanisms leading to the progression of EOC, though this issue still requires further research.

Prognostic role of inflammatory cytokines and novel adipokines in acute myocardial infarction: An updated and comprehensive review

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The inflammation response during and after AMI is common and seems to play a key role in the peri-AMI period, related with ischaemia-reperfusion injury, adverse cardiac remodelling, infarct size and poor prognosis. In this article, we provide an updated and comprehensive overview of the most important cytokines and adipokines involved in the complex pathophysiology mechanisms in AMI, summarizing their prognostic role post-AMI. Data so far support that elevated levels of the major proinflammatory cytokines TNFα, IL-6 and IL-1 and the adipokines adiponectin, visfatin and resistin, are linked to high mortality and morbidity. In contrary, there is evidence that anti-inflammatory cytokines and adipokines as IL-10, omentin-1 and ghrelin can suppress the AMI-induced inflammatory response and are correlated with better prognosis. Mixed data make unclear the role of the novel adipokines leptin and apelin. After all, imbalance of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines may result in worst AMI prognosis. The incorporation of these inflammation biomarkers in established prognostic models could further improve their prognostic power improving overall the management of AMI patients.

Disease association of cyclase-associated protein (CAP): Lessons from gene-targeted mice and human genetic studies

Cyclase-associated protein (CAP) is an actin binding protein that has been initially described as partner of the adenylyl cyclase in yeast. In all vertebrates and some invertebrate species, two orthologs, named CAP1 and CAP2, have been described. CAP1 and CAP2 are characterized by a similar multidomain structure, but different expression patterns. Several molecular studies clarified the biological function of the different CAP domains, and they shed light onto the mechanisms underlying CAP-dependent regulation of actin treadmilling. However, CAPs are crucial elements not only for the regulation of actin dynamics, but also for signal transduction pathways. During recent years, human genetic studies and the analysis of gene-targeted mice provided important novel insights into the physiological roles of CAPs and their involvement in the pathogenesis of several diseases. In the present review, we summarize and discuss recent progress in our understanding of CAPs' physiological functions, focusing on heart, skeletal muscle and central nervous system as well as their involvement in the mechanisms controlling metabolism. Remarkably, loss of CAPs or impairment of CAPs-dependent pathways can contribute to the pathogenesis of different diseases. Overall, these studies unraveled CAPs complexity highlighting their capability to orchestrate structural and signaling pathways in the cells.

Effects of PCSK9 Targeting: Alleviating Oxidation, Inflammation, and Atherosclerosis

Characterized as a chronic inflammatory disease of the large arteries, atherosclerosis is the primary cause of cardiovascular disease, the leading contributor of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Elevated plasma cholesterol levels and chronic inflammation within the arterial plaque are major mediators of plaque initiation, progression, and instability. In 2003, the protein PCSK9 (proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin 9) was discovered to play a critical role in cholesterol regulation, thus becoming a key player in the mechanisms behind atherosclerotic plaque development. Emerging evidence suggests that PCSK9 could potentially have effects on atherosclerosis that are independent of cholesterol levels. The objective of this review was to discuss the role on PCSK9 in oxidation, inflammation, and atherosclerosis. This function activates proinflammatory cytokine production and affects oxidative modifications within atherosclerotic lesions, revealing its more significant role in atherosclerosis. Although a variety of evidence demonstrates that PCSK9 plays a role in atherosclerotic inflammation, the direct mechanism of involvement is still unknown, driving a gap in knowledge to such a predominant player in cardiovascular disease. Investigation of proteins structurally related to PCSK9 may interestingly be the link in unveiling the mechanistic role of this protein’s involvement in oxidation and inflammation. Importantly, the unique structure of PCSK9 bears structural homology to a one‐of‐a‐kind domain found in the metabolic protein resistin, which is responsible for many of the same inflammatory outcomes as PCSK9. Closing this gap in knowledge of PCSK9`s role in atherosclerotic oxidation and inflammation will provide fundamental information for understanding, preventing, and treating cardiovascular disease.

Exosomal MALAT1 Derived from High Glucose-Treated Macrophages Up-Regulates Resistin Expression via miR-150-5p Downregulation

Metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) plays a crucial role in the pathophysiological process associated with diabetes-related complications. The effect of high glucose levels on macrophage-derived exosomal MALAT1 is unknown. Therefore, we investigated the molecular regulatory mechanisms controlling exosomal MALAT1 in macrophages under high glucose treatment and the therapeutic target of macrophage-derived exosomal MALAT1 using a balloon injury model of vascular disease in diabetic rats. High glucose (25 mM) significantly increased MALAT1 expression in macrophage-derived exosomes. MALAT1 suppressed miR-150-5p expression in macrophage-derived exosomes under high-glucose conditions. Silencing MALAT1 using MALAT1 siRNA significantly reversed miR-150-5p expression induced by macrophage-derived exosomes. Macrophage-derived exosomes under high-glucose treatment significantly increased resistin expression in macrophages. Silencing MALAT1 and overexpression of miR-150-5p significantly decreased resistin expression induced by macrophage-derived exosomes. Overexpression of miR-150-5p significantly decreased resistin luciferase activity induced by macrophage-derived exosomes. Macrophage-derived exosome significantly decreased glucose uptake in macrophages and silencing MALAT1, resistin or overexpression of miR-150-5p significantly reversed glucose uptake. Balloon injury to the carotid artery significantly increased MALAT1 and resistin expression and significantly decreased miR-150-5p expression in arterial tissue. Silencing MALAT1 significantly reversed miR-150-5p expression in arterial tissue after balloon injury. Silencing MALAT1 or overexpression of miR-150-5p significantly reduced resistin expression after balloon injury. In conclusion, high glucose up-regulates MALAT1 to suppress miR-150-5p expression and counteracts the inhibitory effect of miR-150-5p on resistin expression in macrophages to promote vascular disease. Macrophage-derived exosomes containing MALAT1 may serve as a novel cell-free approach for the treatment of vascular disease in diabetes mellitus.

The Relationship Between Lipoprotein-Associated Phospholipase-A2 and Coronary Artery Aneurysm in Children With Kawasaki Disease

BACKGROUND

Coronary artery lesions including aneurysm, as the most severe complications of Kawasaki disease (KD), remain of great concern. Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) is implicated in the regulation of inflammatory response and lipid metabolism. Since excessive inflammatory response and aberrant lipid metabolism have involved in the development of KD, we in this study sought to investigate the relationship between coronary artery aneurysm (CAA) and Lp-PLA2 and other blood parameters in children with KD.

METHODS

The participants included 71 KD patients, 63 healthy controls (HCs) and 51 febrile controls (FCs). KD patients were divided into KD-CAA (KD with CAA) group and KD-NCAA (KD without CAA) group. Serum Lp-PLA2 levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Other routine clinical parameters were also detected.

RESULTS

Serum Lp-PLA2 levels in KD group [4.83 μg/mL (3.95-6.77)] were significantly higher than those in HC [1.29 μg/mL (0.95-2.05)] and FC [1.74 μg/mL (1.18-2.74)] groups. KD-CAA group [5.56 μg/mL (4.55-22.01)] presented substantially higher serum Lp-PLA2 levels as compared with KD-NCAA group [4.64 μg/mL (2.60-5.55)]. In KD group, serum Lp-PLA2 level was positively related with erythrocyte sedimentation rate, the levels of leukocytes, platelets, albumin, creatine kinase-MB, and D-dimer, and the Z-scores of left main CA, right CA, left anterior descending CA, and left circumflex CA; and negatively related with mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration and mean platelet volume. Moreover, receiver operating characteristic curves showed that Lp-PLA2 exhibited superior and moderate diagnostic performance for distinguishing KD patients from HC and FC ones, respectively, and possessed the potential ability to predict the occurrence of CAAs in KD.

CONCLUSION

Lp-PLA2 may be related to KD and the formation of CAAs, and thus may serve as a potential diagnostic biomarker for KD.

Positive Correlation of Serum Resistin Level with Peripheral Artery Disease in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease Stage 3 to 5

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with higher risk of cardiovascular disease-related ischemic events, which includes peripheral arterial disease (PAD). PAD is a strong predictor of future cardiovascular events, which can cause significant morbidity and mortality. Resistin has been found to be involved in pathological processes leading to CVD. Therefore, we aim to investigate whether resistin level is correlated with PAD in patients with non-dialysis CKD stage 3 to 5. There were 240 CKD patients enrolled in this study. Ankle-brachial index (ABI) values were measured using the automated oscillometric method. An ABI value < 0.9 defined the low ABI group. Serum levels of human resistin were determined using a commercially available enzyme immunoassay. Thirty CKD patients (12.5%) were included in the low ABI group. Patients in the low ABI group were older and had higher resistin levels as well as higher diabetes mellitus, hypertension and habit of smoking, and lower estimated glomerular filtration rate than patients in the normal ABI group. After the adjustment for factors that were significantly associated with PAD by multivariate logistic regression analysis, age and serum resistin level were independent predictors of PAD. A high serum resistin level is an independent predictor of PAD in non-dialysis CKD stage 3 to 5.

High Serum Levels of Resistin is Associated With Acute Cerebral Infarction

BACKGROUND

The inflammatory process is involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and brain tissue injury following cerebral ischemia. Human resistin is a member of small cysteine-rich secreted proteins and has been implicated in inflammatory responses. This study investigated the association of serum resistin level with acute cerebral infarction (ACI). We also investigated its association with the short-term functional outcome.

METHODS

This study included 106 patients with ACI and 106 age-matched and sex-matched healthy control subjects. Serum resistin level was assessed by using enzyme-linked immunosorbent sandwich assay. The association of serum resistin levels with ACI was analyzed by logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

The serum resistin level was significantly higher in patients with ACI than the control group [median (interquartile range), 35.7 ng/mL (13.0 to 70.5) ng/mL vs. 10.5 ng/ml (15.4 to 16.6), P<0.001]. Logistic regression analysis showed that serum resistin level was associated with an ACI (odds ratio=1.055, 95% confidence interval: 1.035-1.074, P<0.001). Among stroke subtypes, the serum resistin level was higher in the patients with large artery atherosclerosis than those with other subtypes (P=0.013). High resistin levels were also significantly associated with unfavorable functional outcome at discharge (odds ratio=1.043, 95% confidence interval: 1.024-1.063, P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests the potential association of resistin with stroke and cerebral atherosclerosis. Increased serum resistin levels were also associated with early unfavorable neurological outcome.

Resistin: A journey from metabolism to cancer

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Resistin levels have been associated with several pathological disorders such as metabolic disorders, cancers etc.

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Resistin exists in three isoforms namely RELM-α, β and γ.

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High resistin level activates inflammatory pathways, promotes metabolic disorders and is associated with carcinogenesis.

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Increase in the resistin level impairs the therapeutic response by inducing stemness or resistance, in cancer cells.

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Conventional drugs which alter resistin level could have therapeutic implications in several pathological disorders.

Resistin, a small secretory molecule, has been implicated to play an important role in the development of insulin resistance under obese condition. For the past few decades, it has been linked to various cellular and metabolic functions. It has been associated with diseases like metabolic disorders, cardiovascular diseases and cancers. Numerous clinical studies have indicated an increased serum resistin level in pathological disorders which have been reported to increase mortality rate in comparison to low resistin expressing subjects. Various molecular studies suggest resistin plays a pivotal role in proliferation, metastasis, angiogenesis, inflammation as well as in regulating metabolism in cancer cells. Therefore, understanding the role of resistin and elucidating its’ associated molecular mechanism will give a better insight into the management of these disorders. In this article, we summarize the diverse roles of resistin in pathological disorders based on the available literature, clinicopathological data, and a compiled study from various databases. The article mainly provides comprehensive information of its role as a target in different treatment modalities in pre as well as post-clinical studies.

Regional Heterogeneity of Perivascular Adipose Tissue: Morphology, Origin, and Secretome

Perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) is a unique fat depot with local and systemic impacts. PVATs are anatomically, developmentally, and functionally different from classical adipose tissues and they are also different from each other. PVAT adipocytes originate from different progenitors and precursors. They can produce and secrete a wide range of autocrine and paracrine factors, many of which are vasoactive modulators. In the context of obesity-associated low-grade inflammation, these phenotypic and functional differences become more evident. In this review, we focus on the recent findings of PVAT’s heterogeneity by comparing commonly studied adipose tissues around the thoracic aorta (tPVAT), abdominal aorta (aPVAT), and mesenteric artery (mPVAT). Distinct origins and developmental trajectory of PVAT adipocyte potentially contribute to regional heterogeneity. Regional differences also exist in ways how PVAT communicates with its neighboring vasculature by producing specific adipokines, vascular tone regulators, and extracellular vesicles in a given microenvironment. These insights may inspire new therapeutic strategies targeting the PVAT.

Expression of Resistin, Chemerin, and Chemerin's Receptor in the Unstable Carotid Atherosclerotic Plaque

[Figure: see text].

Adipokines in vascular calcification

Adipose tissue (AT), a critical endocrine gland, is capable of producing and secreting abundant adipokines. Adipokines act on distant or adjacent organ tissues via paracrine, autocrine, and endocrine mechanism, which play attractive roles in the regulation of glycolipid metabolism and inflammatory response. Increasing evidence shows that adipokines can connect obesity with cardiovascular diseases by serving as promoters or inhibitors in vascular calcification. The chronic hypoxia in AT, caused by the adipocyte hypertrophy, is able to trigger imbalanced adipokine generation, which leads to apoptosis, osteogenic differentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), vascular inflammation, and abnormal deposition of calcium and phosphorus in the vessel wall. The objectives of this review aim at providing a brief summary of the crucial influence of major adipokines on the formation and development of vascular calcification, which may contribute to better understanding these adipokines for establishing the appropriate therapeutic strategies to counteract obesity-associated vascular calcification.

Association of resistin (rs3745367) and urotensin II (rs228648 and rs2890565) gene polymorphisms with risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus in Indian population

Insulin resistance may become the most powerful predictor of future development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and a therapeutic target for the treatment of the same. Both Resistin, an adipose derived peptide hormone and Urotensin II a potent vasoconstrictor, are reported to be involved in the development of insulin resistance and T2DM but the results remain contradictory. Therefore, investigations were carried out to study the association of T2DM and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in Resistin (RETN) gene at rs3745367 (+ 299 G > A) and Urotensin II (UTS2) gene at rs228648 (+ 143 G > A) and rs2890565 (+ 3836 C > T) in a North Indian population. Method: The present case-control study, conducted from August 2017 to July 2020, involved 168 T2DM patients and 102 healthy controls. SNPs rs3745367, rs228648 and rs2890565 were amplified from genomic DNA in the studied samples by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using specific primers. The amplified products were genotyped by restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) using particular restriction endonucleases. Clinical parameters viz. glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting blood glucose (FBG), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (CHL) and fasting insulin were determined by enzymatic methods. Result and conclusion: A statistically significant association between T2DM and RETN gene at SNP rs3745367 (p = 0.001) and UTS2 gene at SNP rs2890565 (p = 0.001) was observed. In RETN gene SNP rs3745367, insulin and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were found to be higher in GA + AA combined genotype than in GG genotype for T2DM subjects. Regression analysis revealed that SNP rs2890565 and HOMA-IR were independently associated with the risk of development of T2DM when three SNPs were taken as independent variable adjusted for clinical variables. Among four haplotypes, A/T was found associated with increased risk of T2DM as determined for rs228648 and rs2890565 of UTS2 gene. It can be concluded from these results that polymorphism at rs3745367 of RETN gene and at rs2890565 of UTS2 gene are associated with risk of T2DM in North Indian population.

Relation between resistin, PPAR-γ, obesity and atherosclerosis in male albino rats

Obesity and atherosclerosis are inflammatory states involving variable metabolic signals. The adipokine resistin is implicated in adipose tissue dysfunction and is modulated by PPARγ. In this study, resistin and PPARγ role is investigated in the development of CVS disease. Forty-eight Adult male albino rats were divided into control, obesity and atherosclerotic groups; each group is divided into two subgroups; with and without PPARγ agonist administration for 8 weeks. To assess pathological changes; lipid profile, inflammatory mediator, serum resistin level and resistin expression in adipose tissue were measured. Aorta is histopathologically evaluated. It was found that resistin expression is significantly correlated with lipid profile and inflammatory status in obesity and atherosclerotic groups, and PPARγ agonist administration significantly improves inflammatory status and dyslipidemic profile across studied groups (p < .05). Aortic wall shows histopathological evidence of atherosclerosis in obesity group which is more evident in atherosclerotic group, and milder changes upon receiving PPARγ agonist.

Relationship between non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and coronary heart disease

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the leading cause of chronic liver disease and considered a liver manifestation of metabolic syndrome. It is in close relationship with insulin resistance, obesity, diabetes mellitus, all of which increase risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Besides, many studies point out that NAFLD independently contributes to the development of atherosclerosis and CHD. On the other hand, CVDs are the leading cause of death in NAFLD patients. Many pathophysiological changes and molecular mechanisms play an important role in NAFLD for CVD formation. Atherosclerosis is common in NAFLD, which also mainly contributes to the CVD formation and CHD. Many studies linking atherosclerotic CHD and NAFLD are present in the literature. Subclinical CHD, mainly detected by coronary computed tomography views, have been detected more common in NAFLD patients. Presence of NAFLD has been found to be more common in patients with severe CHD and in stable CHD, NAFLD has been found to be associated with more diffuse disease. In acute coronary syndromes, especially in acute myocardial infarction, patients with NAFLD have been found to have poor prognosis when compared with NAFLD free patients. In this review, our aim is to evaluate the relationship between NAFLD and CHD in detail and go over the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying this relationship.

Adipokines and Inflammation: Focus on Cardiovascular Diseases

It is well established that adipose tissue, apart from its energy storage function, acts as an endocrine organ that produces and secretes a number of bioactive substances, including hormones commonly known as adipokines. Obesity is a major risk factor for the development of cardiovascular diseases, mainly due to a low grade of inflammation and the excessive fat accumulation produced in this state. The adipose tissue dysfunction in obesity leads to an aberrant release of adipokines, some of them with direct cardiovascular and inflammatory regulatory functions. Inflammation is a common link between obesity and cardiovascular diseases, so this review will summarise the role of the main adipokines implicated in the regulation of the inflammatory processes occurring under the scenario of cardiovascular diseases.

Biomimetic 3D Models for Investigating the Role of Monocytes and Macrophages in Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis, the inflammation of artery walls due to the accumulation of lipids, is the most common underlying cause for cardiovascular diseases. Monocytes and macrophages are major cells that contribute to the initiation and progression of atherosclerotic plaques. During this process, an accumulation of LDL-laden macrophages (foam cells) and an alteration in the extracellular matrix (ECM) organization leads to a local vessel stiffening. Current in vitro models are carried out onto two-dimensional tissue culture plastic and cannot replicate the relevant microenvironments. To bridge the gap between in vitro and in vivo conditions, we utilized three-dimensional (3D) collagen matrices that allowed us to mimic the ECM stiffening during atherosclerosis by increasing collagen density. First, human monocytic THP-1 cells were embedded into 3D collagen matrices reconstituted at low and high density. Cells were subsequently differentiated into uncommitted macrophages (M0) and further activated into pro- (M1) and anti-inflammatory (M2) phenotypes. In order to mimic atherosclerotic conditions, cells were cultured in the presence of oxidized LDL (oxLDL) and analyzed in terms of oxLDL uptake capability and relevant receptors along with their cytokine secretomes. Although oxLDL uptake and larger lipid size could be observed in macrophages in a matrix dependent manner, monocytes showed higher numbers of oxLDL uptake cells. By analyzing major oxLDL uptake receptors, both monocytes and macrophages expressed lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 (LOX1), while enhanced expression of scavenger receptor CD36 could be observed only in M2. Notably, by analyzing the secretome of macrophages exposed to oxLDL, we demonstrated that the cells could, in fact, secrete adipokines and growth factors in distinct patterns. Besides, oxLDL appeared to up-regulate MHCII expression in all cells, while an up-regulation of CD68, a pan-macrophage marker, was found only in monocytes, suggesting a possible differentiation of monocytes into a pro-inflammatory macrophage. Overall, our work demonstrated that collagen density in the plaque could be one of the major factors driving atherosclerotic progression via modulation of monocyte and macrophages behaviors.

Potential role of perivascular adipose tissue in modulating atherosclerosis

Perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) directly juxtaposes the vascular adventitia and contains a distinct mixture of mature adipocytes, preadipocytes, stem cells, and inflammatory cells that communicate via adipocytokines and other signaling mediators with the nearby vessel wall to regulate vascular function. Cross-talk between perivascular adipocytes and the cells in the blood vessel wall is vital for normal vascular function and becomes perturbed in diseases such as atherosclerosis. Perivascular adipocytes surrounding coronary arteries may be primed to promote inflammation and angiogenesis, and PVAT phenotypic changes occurring in the setting of obesity, hyperlipidemia etc., are fundamentally important in determining a pathogenic versus protective role of PVAT in vascular disease. Recent discoveries have advanced our understanding of the role of perivascular adipocytes in modulating vascular function. However, their impact on cardiovascular disease (CVD), particularly in humans, is yet to be fully elucidated. This review will highlight the complex mechanisms whereby PVAT regulates atherosclerosis, with an emphasis on clinical implications of PVAT and emerging strategies for evaluation and treatment of CVD based on PVAT biology.

Resistin-Inhibited Neural Stem Cell-Derived Astrocyte Differentiation Contributes to Permeability Destruction of the Blood-Brain Barrier

Neuroinflammation is an important part of the development of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Inflammatory factors destroy the balance of the microenvironment, which results in changes in neural stem cell differentiation and proliferation behaviour. However, the mechanism underlying inflammatory factor-induced NSC behavioural changes is not clear. Resistin is a proinflammatory and adipogenic factor and is involved in several human pathology processes. The neural stem cell microenvironment changes when the concentration of resistin in the brain during an inflammatory response disease increases. In the present study, we explored the effect and mechanism of resistin on the proliferation and differentiation of neural stem cells. We found that intracerebroventricular injection of resistin induced a decrease in GFAP-positive cells in mice by influencing NSC differentiation. Resistin significantly decreased TEER and increased permeability in an in vitro blood-brain barrier model, which is consistent with the results of an HBMEC-astrocyte coculture system. Resistin-inhibited astrocyte differentiation is mediated through TLR4 on neural stem cells. To our knowledge, this is the first study reporting the effect of resistin on neural stem cells. Our findings shed light on resistin-involved neural stem cell degeneration mechanisms.

Adipocytokines in Rheumatoid Arthritis: The Hidden Link between Inflammation and Cardiometabolic Comorbidities

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting typically synovial joints and leading to progressive articular damage, disability, and reduced quality of life. Despite better recent therapeutic strategies improving long-term outcomes, RA is associated with a high rate of comorbidities, infections, malignancies, and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Remarkably, some well-known pathogenic proinflammatory mediators in RA, such as interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF), may play a pivotal role in the development of CVD. Interestingly, different preclinical and clinical studies have suggested that biologic agents commonly used to treat RA patients may be effective in improving CVD. In this context, the contribution of adipocytokines has been suggested. Adipocytokines are pleiotropic molecules, mainly released by white adipose tissue and immune cells. Adipocytokines modulate the function of different tissues and cells, and in addition to energy homeostasis and metabolism, amplify inflammation, immune response, and tissue damage. Adipocytokines may contribute to the proinflammatory state in RA patients and development of bone damage. Furthermore, they could be associated with the occurrence of CVD. In this study, we reviewed available evidence about adipocytokines in RA, because of their involvement in disease activity, associated CVD, and possible biomarkers of prognosis and treatment outcome and because of their potential as a possible new therapeutic target.

Serum resistin is associated with impaired endothelial function and a higher rate of adverse cardiac events in patients with peripheral artery disease

OBJECTIVE

Resistin is a hormone that has been associated with metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease. The role of resistin in patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) has not been fully explored. This study seeks to understand the relationship between serum resistin, vascular function, and cardiovascular outcomes in patients with PAD.

METHODS

There were 106 patients with PAD who were recruited between 2011 and 2016. Patients attended a baseline visit during which a comprehensive vascular physiology assessment including medical and surgical history, radial artery tonometry, and flow mediated-vasodilation (FMD) was completed. A blood sample was drawn, and serum resistin was assayed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. Using the time of study enrollment as the time of origin, incident major adverse cardiac events (MACEs) were identified by subsequent chart review and defined as a composite end point of myocardial infarction, coronary revascularization, transient ischemic attack, stroke, or death from a cardiac cause.

RESULTS

Patients had a mean age of 68 ± 8 years, were largely white (75%), and had comorbidities commonly associated with PAD including hypertension (92%), hyperlipidemia (87%), coronary artery disease (37%), and diabetes mellitus (38%). After stratification by resistin quartile, higher resistin quartiles were significantly associated with an older age, a greater number of pack-years smoked, and a lower estimated glomerular filtration rate. Despite similar comorbidities and medication use, endothelial function, as measured by FMD, was significantly lower with increasing resistin quartile (I, 9.1% ± 3.3%; II, 7.1% ± 3.5%; III, 5.8% ± 4.0%; IV, 5.6% ± 3.5%; P = .002). In multivariable linear regression, higher resistin quartiles (III and IV) were associated with lower FMD relative to quartile I after adjusting for several patient characteristics, medications, and comorbidities (III, -2.26 [95% confidence interval (CI), -4.51 to -0.01; P = .05]; IV, -2.53 [95% CI, -4.87 to -0.20; P = .03]). During a median follow-up period of 36 months (interquartile range, 29-45 months), 21 patients experienced the primary end point. In a Cox proportional hazards model adjusted for smoking status, coronary artery disease, and age, each 1 ng/mL increase in resistin was associated with a 10% increased risk of MACEs (hazard ratio, 1.10; 95% CI, 1.00-1.20; P = .04).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with PAD, higher levels of resistin were associated with impaired endothelial function and an increased rate of MACEs. These results suggest that resistin may be a marker or effector of impaired vascular physiology and adverse cardiac outcomes in patients with PAD. Further research is needed to determine the potential mechanisms by which resistin may impair endothelial function and increase MACEs in this population.

Vitamin D replacement ameliorates serum lipoprotein functions, adipokine profile and subclinical atherosclerosis in pre-menopausal women

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Low vitamin D (vitD) has been linked to increased cardiovascular (CV) risk, but the effects of vitD supplementation are not clarified. We evaluated the impact of vitD normalization on HDL cholesterol efflux capacity (CEC), which inversely correlates with CV risk, the proatherogenic serum cholesterol loading capacity (CLC), adipokine profile and subclinical atherosclerosis.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Healthy premenopausal women with vitD deficiency (n = 31) underwent supplementation. Subclinical atherosclerosis was evaluated by flow-mediated dilation (FMD), pulse wave velocity (PWV) and augmentation index (AIx), measured with standard techniques. HDL CEC and serum CLC were measured by a radioisotopic and fluorimetric assay, respectively. Malondialdehyde (MDA) in HDL was quantified by the TBARS assay. Pre-β HDL was assessed by 2D-electrophoresis. Serum adipokines were measured by ELISA. VitD replacement restored normal levels of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) and significantly improved FMD (+4%; p < 0.001), PWV (-4.1%: p < 0.001) and AIx (-16.1%; p < 0.001). Total CEC was significantly improved (+19.5%; p = 0.003), with a specific increase in the ABCA1-mediated CEC (+70.8%; p < 0.001). HDL-MDA slightly but significantly decreased (-9.6%; p = 0.027), while no difference was detected in pre-β HDL. No change was observed in aqueous diffusion nor in the ABCG1-mediated CEC. Serum CLC was significantly reduced (-13.3%; p = 0.026). Levels of adiponectin were increased (+50.6%; p < 0.0001) and resistin levels were decreased (-24.3%; p < 0.0001). After vitD replacement, an inverse relationship was found linking the ABCA1-mediated CEC with pre-β HDL (r² = 0.346; p < 0.001) and resistin (r² = 0.220; p = 0.009).

CONCLUSION

Our data support vitD supplementation for CV risk prevention.

The interplay between adipose tissue and the cardiovascular system: is fat always bad?

Obesity is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, clinical research has revealed a paradoxically protective role for obesity in patients with chronic diseases including CVD, suggesting that the biological 'quality' of adipose tissue (AT) may be more important than overall AT mass or body weight. Importantly, AT is recognised as a dynamic organ secreting a wide range of biologically active adipokines, microRNAs, gaseous messengers, and other metabolites that affect the cardiovascular system in both endocrine and paracrine ways. Despite being able to mediate normal cardiovascular function under physiological conditions, AT undergoes a phenotypic shift characterised by acquisition of pro-oxidant and pro-inflammatory properties in cases of CVD. Crucially, recent evidence suggests that AT depots such as perivascular AT and epicardial AT are able to modify their phenotype in response to local signals of vascular and myocardial origin, respectively. Utilisation of this unique property of certain AT depots to dynamically track cardiovascular biology may reveal novel diagnostic and prognostic tools against CVD. Better understanding of the mechanisms controlling the 'quality' of AT secretome, as well as the communication links between AT and the cardiovascular system, is required for the efficient management of CVD.

Resistin Is a Novel Marker for Postoperative Pain Intensity

BACKGROUND

Pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines (adipokines) associated with adipose tissue can modulate inflammatory processes and lead to systemic inflammatory conditions such as metabolic syndrome. In the present pilot study, we investigated 3 major adipokines (leptin, adiponectin, and resistin) and 2 nonspecific proinflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor α and interleukin-6) with regard to their association with postoperative pain intensity.

METHODS

We analyzed a total of 45 single-nucleotide polymorphisms of the adipokines in 57 patients with postlaparotomy pain. We adjusted for multiple testing to reduce the chance of false-positive results by controlling the false discovery rate. Serum levels of the adipokines and proinflammatory cytokines were measured in another 36 patients undergoing laparotomy. A stepwise multiple linear regression analysis using these measurements and opioid dosages as independent variables was performed to explore the factors associated with postoperative pain.

RESULTS

Only 1 variant of the resistin gene (rs3745367) demonstrated a significant association with postoperative pain (P < .002). Patients exhibiting homozygosity for the minor alleles (n = 7; numerical rating scale [NRS], 2.3 ± 1.3) demonstrated lower pain intensity compared with those exhibiting homozygosity for the major alleles (n = 29; NRS, 3.8 ± 1.0; P = .004) and heterozygosity for the minor alleles (n = 21; NRS, 4.2 ± 0.8; P < .001). Only serum resistin levels showed a positive association with postoperative pain.

CONCLUSIONS

A genetic variant of resistin and serum resistin levels were associated with postoperative pain intensity, while other adipokines and cytokines exhibit no such association. Resistin can alter the inflammatory responses in postoperative wounds, although it could be a determinant factor that is independent of inflammatory processes. Resistin may be a novel marker for postoperative pain intensity.

Activation of the porcine alveolar macrophages via toll-like receptor 4/NF-κB mediated pathway provides a mechanism of resistin leading to inflammation

Resistin, a previously discovered cysteine-rich adipokine known to regulate glucose metabolism, has been emerged as a mediator in inflammation and immunity. Its level was supposed to be related to the expression of indicators, such as interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in inflammation. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) was reported to be a receptor for resistin in cells, like leukocytes and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). However, the pro-inflammatory role of resistin and its intracellular mechanisms in alveolar macrophages have not been thoroughly validated. Here we found that the pro-inflammatory cytokine expression in porcine alveolar macrophages (PAMs) was positively correlated with resistin. Our results also showed that resistin induced the expression of TLR4, intracellular molecules myeloid differentiation primary response protein 88 (MyD88), TRIF-related adaptor molecule (TRAM) and nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) in PAMs. In contrast, inhibition of TLR4, MyD88, TRAM and NF-κB abrogated the pro-inflammatory effect of resistin on PAMs. Additionally, the associations among TLR4, MyD88/TRAM and NF-κB were investigated by introducing TLR4-siRNA, MyD88-siRNA and TRAM-siRNA respectively into PAMs prior to the treatment with resistin. Taken together, our findings demonstrated that resistin promoted the production of pro-inflammatory cytokine in PAMs via TLR4/NF-κB-mediated pathway (TLR4/MyD88/TRAM/NF-κB).

Serum Resistin Negatively Correlates with Clinical Severity of Postural Tachycardia Syndrome in Children

This study was designed to analyse the serum resistin level in children with postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS) and its clinical significance. Twenty-one children with POTS and 31 healthy children as controls participated in the study. Clinical characteristics, heart rate and blood pressure in the supine and upright positions were monitored and collected during an upright test, and the symptom scoring of POTS patients was recorded. The serum resistin levels of patients in both groups were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The change in serum resistin levels in the POTS group before and after standing, as well as its correlation with symptom scores and change in heart rate after standing, was analysed. Compared with the control group, the serum resistin levels in the POTS group were significantly increased (P < 0.01). The serum resistin levels in the POTS group before and after standing did not differ (P > 0.05). There was a negative correlation between the serum resistin levels and a change in heart rate from the supine to upright position (correlation coefficient = -0.615, P < 0.01). Moreover, serum resistin levels were negatively correlated with symptom scores (correlation coefficient = -0.493, P < 0.05). Serum resistin levels in children with POTS were significantly higher than those in healthy children and negatively correlated with a change in heart rate from the supine to upright position and symptom scores. These results suggest a protective role of increased resistin in the pathogenesis of POTS.

Emerging evidence for the role of differential tumor microenvironment in breast cancer racial disparity: a closer look at the surroundings

Although increased awareness leading to early detection and prevention, as well as advancements in treatment strategies, have resulted in superior clinical outcomes, African American women with breast cancer continue to have greater mortality rates, compared to Caucasian American counterparts. Moreover, African American women are more likely to have breast cancer at a younger age and be diagnosed with aggressive tumor sub-types. Such racial disparities can be attributed to socioeconomic differences, but it is increasingly being recognized that these disparities may indeed be due to certain genetic and other non-genetic biological differences. Tumor microenvironment, which provides a favorable niche for the growth of tumor cells, is comprised of several types of stromal cells and the various proteins secreted as a consequence of bi-directional tumor-stromal cross-talk. Emerging evidence suggests inherent biological differences in the tumor microenvironment of breast cancer patients from different racial backgrounds. Tumor microenvironment components, affected by the genetic make-up of the tumor cells as well as other non-tumor-associated factors, may also render patients more susceptible to the development of aggressive tumors and faster progression of disease resulting in early onset, thus adversely affecting patients' survival. This review provides an overview of breast cancer racial disparity and discusses the existence of race-associated differential tumor microenvironment and its underlying genetic and non-genetic causal factors. A better understanding of these aspects would help further research on effective cancer management and improved approaches for reducing the racial disparities gaps in breast cancer patients.

Exploring the Crosstalk between Adipose Tissue and the Cardiovascular System

Obesity is a clinical entity critically involved in the development and progression of cardiovascular disease (CVD), which is characterised by variable expansion of adipose tissue (AT) mass across the body as well as by phenotypic alterations in AT. AT is able to secrete a diverse spectrum of biologically active substances called adipocytokines, which reach the cardiovascular system via both endocrine and paracrine routes, potentially regulating a variety of physiological and pathophysiological responses in the vasculature and heart. Such responses include regulation of inflammation and oxidative stress as well as cell proliferation, migration and hypertrophy. Furthermore, clinical observations such as the “obesity paradox,” namely the fact that moderately obese patients with CVD have favourable clinical outcome, strongly indicate that the biological “quality” of AT may be far more crucial than its overall mass in the regulation of CVD pathogenesis. In this work, we describe the anatomical and biological diversity of AT in health and metabolic disease; we next explore its association with CVD and, importantly, novel evidence for its dynamic crosstalk with the cardiovascular system, which could regulate CVD pathogenesis.

Resistin causes G1 arrest in colon cancer cells through upregulation of SOCS3

Resistin, a proinflammatory cytokine, is elevated in a number of pathological disorders, including cancer. The serum resistin level in colon cancer patients is elevated and correlates with tumor grade. However, the implications of increased resistin on colon cancer cells remain unclear. In the present study, we find that resistin binds to TLR4 on colon cancer cell membrane and initiates TLR4-MyD88-dependent activation of ERK. In addition, the upregulation of SOCS3 by ERK downregulates the JAK2/TAT3 pathway and causes the arrest of cells in G1 phase. Interestingly, we observe that resistin-exposed cells survive 5-fluorouracil treatment because of a decrease in drug uptake due to the arrest of cells in G1 phase.

Serum resistin is causally related to mortality risk in patients with type 2 diabetes: preliminary evidences from genetic data

Resistin has been firmly associated with all-cause mortality. We investigated, whether, in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D), this association is sustained by a cause-effect relationship. A genotype risk score (GRS), created by summing the number of resistin increasing alleles of two genome-wide association studies (GWAS)-derived single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), serum resistin measurements and all-cause death records were obtained in 1,479 (403 events/12,454 person-years), patients with T2D from three cohorts, Gargano Heart Study-prospective design (n = 350), Gargano Mortality Study (n = 698) and Foggia Mortality Study (n = 431), from Italy. GRS was strongly associated with serum resistin in a non-linear fashion (overall p = 3.5 * 10^-7) with effect size modest for GRS = 1 and 2 and much higher for GRS >3, with respect to GRS = 0. A significant non-linear association was observed also between GRS and all-cause mortality (overall p = 3.3 * 10^-2), with a low effect size for GRS = 1 and 2, and nearly doubled for GRS ≥ 3, with respect to GRS = 0. Based on the above-reported associations, each genetic equivalent SD increase in log-resistin levels showed a causal hazard ratio of all-cause mortality equal to 2.17 (95%CI: 1.22-3.87), thus providing evidence for a causal role of resistin in shaping the risk of mortality in diabetic patients.