Stressing the role of FoxO proteins in lifespan and disease

FoxO3 Regulates Mouse Bone Mesenchymal Stem Cell Fate and Bone-Fat Balance During Skeletal Aging

Age-related osteoporosis is characterized by an imbalance between osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation in bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). Forkhead box O 3 (FoxO3) transcription factor is involved in lifespan and cell differentiation. In this study, we explore whether FoxO3 regulates age-related bone loss and marrow fat accumulation. The expression levels of FoxO3 in BMSCs during aging were detected in vivo and in vitro. To explore the role of FoxO3 in osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation, primary BMSCs were isolated from young and aged mice. FoxO3 expression was modulated by adenoviral vector transfection. The role of FoxO3 in bone-fat balance was evaluated by alizarin red S staining, oil red O staining, quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, Western blot, and histological analysis. Age-related bone loss and fat deposit are associated with downregulation of FoxO3. Overexpression of FoxO3 alleviated age-related bone loss and marrow fat accumulation in aged mice. Mechanistically, FoxO3 reduced adipogenesis and enhanced osteogenesis of BMSCs via downregulation of PPAR-γ and Notch signaling, respectively. In conclusion, FoxO3 is an essential factor controlling the fate of BMSCs and is a potential target for the prevention of age-related osteoporosis.

Deletion of CaMKIIα disrupts glucose metabolism, glutamate uptake, and synaptic energetics in the cerebral cortex

Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II alpha (CaMKIIα) is a key regulator of neuronal signaling and synaptic plasticity. Synaptic activity and neurotransmitter homeostasis are closely coupled to the energy metabolism of both neurons and astrocytes. However, whether CaMKIIα function is implicated in brain energy and neurotransmitter metabolism remains unclear. Here, we explored the metabolic consequences of CaMKIIα deletion in the cerebral cortex using a genetic CaMKIIα knockout (KO) mouse. Energy and neurotransmitter metabolism was functionally investigated in acutely isolated cerebral cortical slices using stable 13C isotope tracing, whereas the metabolic function of synaptosomes was assessed by the rates of glycolytic activity and mitochondrial respiration. The oxidative metabolism of [U-13C]glucose was extensively reduced in cerebral cortical slices of the CaMKIIα KO mice. In contrast, metabolism of [1,2-13C]acetate, primarily reflecting astrocyte metabolism, was unaffected. Cellular uptake, and subsequent metabolism, of [U-13C]glutamate was decreased in cerebral cortical slices of CaMKIIα KO mice, whereas uptake and metabolism of [U-13C]GABA were unaffected, suggesting selective metabolic impairments of the excitatory system. Synaptic metabolic function was maintained during resting conditions in isolated synaptosomes from CaMKIIα KO mice, but both the glycolytic and mitochondrial capacities became insufficient when the synaptosomes were metabolically challenged. Collectively, this study shows that global deletion of CaMKIIα significantly impairs cellular energy and neurotransmitter metabolism, particularly of neurons, suggesting a metabolic role of CaMKIIα signaling in the brain.

The roles of stress-induced premature senescence and Akt/FoxO1 signaling in periapical lesions

OBJECTIVES

There is little knowledge about oxidative stress-induced senescence involvement in apical periodontitis. Here, we explored its molecular mechanism in periapical lesions.

METHODS

Ten cases of radicular cysts and five cases of periapical granulomas were randomly selected. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed to detect the expression and correlation between Senescence-associated factor polymerase I and transcript release factor (PTRF) and Akt/FoxO1 signaling. Human periodontal ligament cells (hPDLCs) pretreated with LY294002 were exposed to H2O2-induced oxidative stress conditions and then cell proliferation, senescence, apoptosis, and associated signaling were evaluated by EdU labeling, β-galactosidase assay, RT-qPCR, and western blot analysis, respectively.

RESULTS

Polymerase I and transcript release factor and Akt/FoxO1 signaling were more frequently expressed in the radicular cyst than in periapical granulomas. Notably, cells in radicular cysts showed Akt activation, FoxO1 phosphorylation, and cytoplasmic translocation. In vitro, prominent H2O2-induced senescence was observed in hPDLCs. LY294002, a PI3K inhibitor, attenuated the expression levels of senescence (Klotho, P16INK4), apoptosis (Bad, Fas), phosphorylated Akt, and phosphorylated FoxO1; however, did not affect cell proliferation.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data indicated that senescence is present in clinical periapical lesions, and Akt/FoxO1 signaling is involved in the H2O2-induced cellular senescence, which could serve as a potential therapeutic target.

Cold-induced FOXO1 nuclear transport aids cold survival and tissue storage

Cold-induced injuries severely limit opportunities and outcomes of hypothermic therapies and organ preservation, calling for better understanding of cold adaptation. Here, by surveying cold-altered chromatin accessibility and integrated CUT&Tag/RNA-seq analyses in human stem cells, we reveal forkhead box O1 (FOXO1) as a key transcription factor for autonomous cold adaptation. Accordingly, we find a nonconventional, temperature-sensitive FOXO1 transport mechanism involving the nuclear pore complex protein RANBP2, SUMO-modification of transporter proteins Importin-7 and Exportin-1, and a SUMO-interacting motif on FOXO1. Our conclusions are supported by cold survival experiments with human cell models and zebrafish larvae. Promoting FOXO1 nuclear entry by the Exportin-1 inhibitor KPT-330 enhances cold tolerance in pre-diabetic obese mice, and greatly prolongs the shelf-life of human and mouse pancreatic tissues and islets. Transplantation of mouse islets cold-stored for 14 days reestablishes normoglycemia in diabetic mice. Our findings uncover a regulatory network and potential therapeutic targets to boost spontaneous cold adaptation.

Pregnane X receptor knockout mitigates weight gain and hepatic metabolic dysregulation in female C57BL/6 J mice on a long-term high-fat diet

Obesity is a significant risk factor for several chronic diseases. However, pre-menopausal females are protected against high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity and its adverse effects. The pregnane X receptor (PXR, NR1I2), a xenobiotic-sensing nuclear receptor, promotes short-term obesity-associated liver disease only in male mice but not in females. Therefore, the current study investigated the metabolic and pathophysiological effects of a long-term 52-week HFD in female wild-type (WT) and PXR-KO mice and characterized the PXR-dependent molecular pathways involved. After 52 weeks of HFD ingestion, the body and liver weights and several markers of hepatotoxicity were significantly higher in WT mice than in their PXR-KO counterparts. The HFD-induced liver injury in WT female mice was also associated with upregulation of the hepatic mRNA levels of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (Pparg), its target genes, fat-specific protein 27 (Fsp27), and the liver-specific Fsp27b involved in lipid accumulation, apoptosis, and inflammation. Notably, PXR-KO mice displayed elevated hepatic Cyp2a5 (anti-obesity gene), aldo-keto reductase 1b7 (Akr1b7), glutathione-S-transferase M3 (Gstm3) (antioxidant gene), and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) levels, contributing to protection against long-term HFD-induced obesity and inflammation. RNA sequencing analysis revealed a general blunting of the transcriptomic response to HFD in PXR-KO compared to WT mice. Pathway enrichment analysis demonstrated enrichment by HFD for several pathways, including oxidative stress and redox pathway, cholesterol biosynthesis, and glycolysis/gluconeogenesis in WT but not PXR-KO mice. In conclusion, this study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms by which PXR deficiency protects against long-term HFD-induced severe obesity and its adverse effects in female mice.

Loranthus tanakae Franch. and Sav. Attenuates Respiratory Inflammation Caused by Asian Sand Dust

Asian sand dust (ASD), generally produced in East Asia, including China, Japan, and Korea, directly leads to the development of pulmonary disease and exacerbates underlying pulmonary diseases. Loranthus tanakae Franch. and Sav. is a traditional herbal medicine applied to improve various inflammatory conditions. Here, we evaluated the curative properties of L. tanakae ethanol extract (LTE) against pulmonary inflammation caused by ASD. Additionally, to investigate the mechanism of action of LTE, we performed network pharmacological analysis. ASD was administrated on day 1, 3, and 5 by intranasal instillation, and LTE was orally administered for 6 days. Administration of LTE significantly decreased inflammatory cytokines and the number of inflammatory cells in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, which was accompanied by a decrease in inflammatory cell accumulation in pulmonary tissue. Administration of LTE decreased the expression of cyclooxygenase2 and matrix metalloproteinase-9 in mice exposed to ASD with the decline in p65 phosphorylation. Additionally, administration of LTE significantly elevated hemeoxygenase (HO)-1 expression in the pulmonary tissue of mice exposed to ASD. These results were consistent with the data of network pharmacological analysis. This experiment showed that LTE attenuated pulmonary inflammation caused by ASD via inhibition of NF-κB and elevation of HO-1. Therefore, LTE may have potential as a therapeutic agent to treat pulmonary inflammation caused by ASD.

Molecular mechanism of microRNA-mediated hypoglycemic effect of whole grain highland barley

As a non-coding RNA, microRNA (miRNA) has been proven to play an important role in the development and progression of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Highland barley is a whole grain from the Tibetan areas of China. Our previous studies have demonstrated its hypoglycemic effect. To further explore the underlining molecular mechanism, we investigated the effect of highland barley intervention on liver miRNA expression profiles in diabetic mice. Our results showed that ten differentially expressed miRNA among different groups were identified and their target genes were predicted. Remarkably, many glycometabolism-associated genes, including Foxo3, Nras, Rptor, Igf1r, Tsc2 and Braf, were negatively regulated by miR-122-5p, miR-503-5p, miR-455-5p and miR-210-3p, respectively. Pathway enrichment analysis revealed these target genes were mainly involved in AMPK, MAPK and FOXO signaling pathways. Thereby, these miRNA and mRNA were validated using qRT-PCR, and the results were consistent with the small RNA-seq and expectations. Highland barley could regulate the MAPK, AMPK, and FOXO signaling pathways by regulating critical miRNA-mRNA pairs, e.x. miR-210-3p-Tsc2/Braf, miR-122-5p-Foxo3, and miR-455-5p-Igf1r, thereby improving blood glucose metabolism in diabetic mice. The present study preliminarily explored the hypoglycaemic effects of highland barley based on transcriptomics, and more detailed and in-depth studies on this topic are needed in the future.

Magnesium and the Hallmarks of Aging

Magnesium is an essential ion in the human body that regulates numerous physiological and pathological processes. Magnesium deficiency is very common in old age. Age-related chronic diseases and the aging process itself are frequently associated with low-grade chronic inflammation, called 'inflammaging'. Because chronic magnesium insufficiency has been linked to excessive generation of inflammatory markers and free radicals, inducing a chronic inflammatory state, we formerly hypothesized that magnesium inadequacy may be considered among the intermediaries helping us explain the link between inflammaging and aging-associated diseases. We show in this review evidence of the relationship of magnesium with all the hallmarks of aging (genomic instability, telomere attrition, epigenetic alterations, loss of proteostasis, deregulated nutrient sensing, mitochondrial dysfunction, cellular senescence, stem cell exhaustion, altered intercellular communication, disabled autophagy, dysbiosis, and chronic inflammation), which may positively affect the human healthspan. It is feasible to hypothesize that maintaining an optimal balance of magnesium during one's life course may turn out to be a safe and economical strategy contributing to the promotion of healthy aging. Future well-designed studies are necessary to further explore this hypothesis.

Assessment of oxidative stress biomarkers in the threatened annual killifish Austrolebias charrua exposed to Roundup

This study aimed to analyze the toxic effects of Roundup Transorb® on the endangered Neotropical annual killifish Austrolebias charrua through the assessment of molecular and biochemical biomarkers. The fish were collected in temporary ponds and exposed to environmentally realistic concentrations of the herbicide (5 mg.L-1 for 96 h). The production of ROS, lipid peroxidation, DNA damage, and membrane fluidity were evaluated in the blood cells by flow cytometry. The mRNA expression of the antioxidant-related genes sod2, cat, gstα, atp1a1, gclc, and ucp1 across the brain, liver, and gills was quantified. The acute exposure of annual killifish to Roundup significantly increased ROS production, lipid peroxidation, and DNA damage in their erythrocytes. Likewise, Roundup Transorb® decreased membrane fluidity in the blood cells of the exposed fish. Gene expression analysis revealed that Roundup exposure alters the relative expression of genes associated with oxidative stress and antioxidant defense. Our results give rise to new insights into adaptive mechanisms of A. charrua in response to Roundup. Since Brazilian annual killifishes strongly risk extinction, this study paves the way for developing novel biotechnologies applied to environmental monitoring and aquatic toxicology assessment.

Mulberry-derived miR168a downregulates BmMthl1 to promote physical development and fecundity in silkworms

Plant-derived miRNAs and their interactions with host organisms are considered important factors in regulating host physiological processes. In this study, we investigated the interaction between the silkworm, an oligophagous insect, and its primary food source, mulberry, to determine whether mulberry-derived miRNAs can penetrate silkworm cells and regulate their functions. Our results demonstrated that miR168a from mulberry leaves enters the silkworm hemolymph and binds to the silkworm Argonaute1 BmAGO1, which is transported via vesicles secreted by silkworm cells to exert its regulatory functions. In vivo and in vitro functional studies revealed that miR168a targets the mRNA of silkworm G protein-coupled receptor, BmMthl1, thereby inhibiting its expression and activating the JNK-FoxO pathway. This activation reduces oxidative stress responses, prolongs the lifespan of silkworms, and improves their reproductive capacity. These findings highlight the challenges of replacing mulberry leaves with alternative protein sources and provide a foundation for developing silkworm germplasms suitable for factory rearing.

The role of ROS in tumor infiltrating immune cells and cancer immunotherapy

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are a group of short-lived highly reactive molecules formed intracellularly from molecular oxygen. ROS can alter biochemical, transcriptional, and epigenetic programs and have an indispensable role in cellular function. In immune cells, ROS are mediators of specialized functions such as phagocytosis, antigen presentation, activation, cytolysis, and differentiation. ROS have a fundamental role in the tumor microenvironment (TME) where they are produced by immune cell-intrinsic and -extrinsic mechanisms. ROS can act as a double-edged sword with short exposures leading to activation in various innate and adaptative immune cells, and prolonged exposures, unopposed by redox balancing antioxidants leading to exhaustion, immunosuppression, and unresponsiveness to cancer immunotherapy. Due to its plasticity and impact on the anti-tumor function of immune cells, attempts are currently in process to harness ROS biology with the purpose to improve contemporary strategies of cancer immunotherapy. Here, we provide a short overview how ROS and various antioxidant systems impact on the function of innate and adaptive immune system cells with emphasis on the TME and immune-based therapies for cancer.

Response of lipid metabolism, energy supply, and cell fate in yellowstripe goby (Mugilogobius chulae) exposed to environmentally relevant concentrations atorvastatin

The usage of typical pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) such as cardiovascular and lipid-modulating drugs in clinical care accounts for the largest share of pharmaceutical consumption in most countries. Atorvastatin (ATV), one of the most commonly used lipid-lowering drugs, is frequently detected with lower concentrations in aquatic environments owing to its wide application, low removal, and degradation rates. However, the adverse effects of ATV on non-target aquatic organisms, especially the molecular mechanisms behind the toxic effects, still remain unclear. Therefore, this study investigated the potentially toxic effects of ATV exposure (including environmental concentrations) on yellowstripe goby (Mugilogobius chulae) and addressed the multi-dimensional responses. The results showed that ATV caused typical hepatotoxicity to M. chulae. ATV interfered with lipid metabolism by blocking fatty acid β-oxidation and led to the over-consumption of lipids. Thus, the exposed organism was obliged to alter the energy supply patterns and substrates utilization pathways to keep the normal energy supply. In addition, the higher concentration of ATV exposure caused oxidative stress to the organism. Subsequently, M. chulae triggered the autophagy and apoptosis processes with the help of key stress-related transcriptional regulators FOXOs and Sestrins to degrade the damaged organelles and proteins to maintain intracellular homeostasis.

Protective effects of Angelica decursiva Franchet & Savatier on allergic responses through enhancement of Nrf2 and suppression of NF-kB/MMP-9 in ovalbumin-exposed mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Angelica decursiva Franchet & Savatier is a traditional medicinal plant used to treat asthma, cough, headache, pyrexia and thick phlegm in China, Japan and Korea. A. decursiva contains many types of coumarins, which can exert several pharmacological activities including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties for treating various diseases such as pneumonitis, atopic dermatitis, diabetes, and Alzheimer's disease.

AIM OF THE STUDY

In this study, we analyzed the components of A. decursiva ethanol extract (ADE) by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and investigated the therapeutic effects of ADE against allergic asthma using lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulated RAW264.7 cells and an ovalbumin (OVA)-exposed allergic asthma model. To elucidate the mechanism of action of ADE, we examined the protein expression through network pharmacological analysis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To establish asthma model, the mice were sensitized on day 0 and 14 via intraperitoneal injection of OVA with aluminum hydroxide. The mice were inhaled with OVA using an ultrasonic nebulizer on day 21, 22 and 23. ADE (50 and 100 mg/kg) was administered to mice by oral gave form day 18-23. On day 24, airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) was measured using flexivent. On day 25, the mice were sacrificed and collected bronchoalveolar lavage fluids (BALF), serum and lung tissue. In LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cell, nitric oxide and cytokines were measured. Additionally, expression of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor (Nrf2) and suppression of nuclear factor (NF)-κB were detected using double-immunofluorescence.

RESULTS

We detected the five coumarin components which included nodakenin, umbelliferon, (-)-marmesin (=nodakenetin), bergapten, and decursin, in ADE by high performance liquid chromatography. Treatment with ADE decreased the production of nitric oxide, interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells accompanied by the enhanced expression of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor (Nrf2) and suppression of nuclear factor (NF)-κB. In the asthma model, the administration of ADE reduced inflammatory cell count and airway hyperresponsiveness in OVA-exposed animals with decreased levels of IL-4, IL-13, and OVA-specific immunoglobulin E. These results were accompanied by the reduction of pulmonary inflammation and mucus secretion. Furthermore, ADE administration inhibited the expression of NF-κB and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 in OVA-exposed animals, which was consistent with the results of network pharmacological analysis.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that ADE effectively attenuated allergic inflammation induced by OVA inhalation through the enhancement of Nrf2 expression and suppression of NF-κB expression. Therefore, ADE may be a potential therapeutic agent for controlling asthma.

A Janus-ROS Healing System Promoting Infectious Bone Regeneration via Sono-Epigenetic Modulation

Elimination of bacterial infections and simultaneously promoting osteogenic differentiation are highly required for infectious bone diseases. Massive reactive oxygen species (ROS) can damage cells, while low ROS concentrations as a molecular signal can regulate cellular fate. In this study, a Janus-ROS healing system is developed for infectious bone regeneration. An alendronate (ALN)-mediated defective metal-organic framework (MOF) sonosensitizer is prepared, which can effectively clear Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections and promote osteogenic differentiation under differential ultrasonic irradiation. In the presence of zirconium-phosphate coordination, the ALN-mediated porphyrin-based MOF (HN25) with a proper defect has great sonodynamic antibacterial efficiency (98.97%, 15 min) and bone-targeting ability. Notably, under low-power ultrasound irradiation, HN25 can increase the chromatin accessibility of ossification-related genes and FOXO1 to promote bone repair through low ROS concentrations. Animal models of paravertebral infection, fracture with infection, and osteomyelitis demonstrate that HN25 successfully realizes the targeted and potent repair of various infectious bone tissues through rapid MRSA elimination, inhibiting osteoclast activity and promoting bone regeneration. The results show that high catalytic efficiency and bioactive MOF can be constructed using pharmaceutical-mediated defect engineering. The Janus-ROS treatment is also a promising therapeutic mode for infectious tissue regeneration.

Acetylation of FOXO1 activates Bim expression involved in CVB3 induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis

Viral myocarditis (VMC) is the major reason for sudden cardiac death among both children and young adults. Of these, coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) is the most common causative agent of myocarditis. Recently, the role of signaling pathways in the pathogenesis of VMC has been evaluated in several studies, which has provided a new perspective on identifying potential therapeutic targets for this hitherto incurable disease. In the present study, in vivo and in vitro experiments showed that CVB3 infection leads to increased Bim expression and triggers apoptosis. In addition, by knocking down Bim using RNAi, we further confirmed the biological function of Bim in apoptosis induced by CVB3 infection. We additionally found that Bim and forkhead box O1 class (FOXO1) inhibition significantly increased the viability of CVB3-infected cells while blocking viral replication and viral release. Moreover, CVB3-induced Bim expression was directly dependent on FOXO1 acetylation, which is catalyzed by the co-regulation of CBP and SirTs. Furthermore, the acetylation of FOXO1 was an important step in Bim activation and apoptosis induced by CVB3 infection. The findings of this study suggest that CVB3 infection induces apoptosis through the FOXO1 acetylation-Bim pathway, thus providing new insights for developing potential therapeutic targets for enteroviral myocarditis.

Emerging links between FOXOs and diabetic complications

Diabetes and its complications are increasing worldwide in the working population as well as in elders. Prolonged hyperglycemia results in damage to blood vessels of various tissues followed by organ damage. Hyperglycemia-induced damage in small blood vessels as in nephrons, retina, and neurons results in diabetic microvascular complications which involve nephropathy, retinopathy, and diabetic neuropathy. Additionally, damage in large blood vessels is considered as a macrovascular complication including diabetic cardiomyopathy. These long-term complications can result in organ failure and thus becomes the leading cause of diabetic-related mortality in patients. Members of the Forkhead Box O family (FOXO) are involved in various body functions including cell proliferation, metabolic processes, differentiation, autophagy, and apoptosis. Moreover, increasing shreds of evidence suggest the involvement of FOXO family members FOXO1, FOXO3, FOXO4, and FOXO6 in several chronic diseases including diabetes and diabetic complications. Hence, this review focuses on the role of FOXO transcription factors in the regulation of diabetic complications.

Calorie restriction modulates the transcription of genes related to stress response and longevity in human muscle: The CALERIE study

The lifespan extension induced by 40% caloric restriction (CR) in rodents is accompanied by postponement of disease, preservation of function, and increased stress resistance. Whether CR elicits the same physiological and molecular responses in humans remains mostly unexplored. In the CALERIE study, 12% CR for 2 years in healthy humans induced minor losses of muscle mass (leg lean mass) without changes of muscle strength, but mechanisms for muscle quality preservation remained unclear. We performed high-depth RNA-Seq (387-618 million paired reads) on human vastus lateralis muscle biopsies collected from the CALERIE participants at baseline, 12- and 24-month follow-up from the 90 CALERIE participants randomized to CR and "ad libitum" control. Using linear mixed effect model, we identified protein-coding genes and splicing variants whose expression was significantly changed in the CR group compared to controls, including genes related to proteostasis, circadian rhythm regulation, DNA repair, mitochondrial biogenesis, mRNA processing/splicing, FOXO3 metabolism, apoptosis, and inflammation. Changes in some of these biological pathways mediated part of the positive effect of CR on muscle quality. Differentially expressed splicing variants were associated with change in pathways shown to be affected by CR in model organisms. Two years of sustained CR in humans positively affected skeletal muscle quality, and impacted gene expression and splicing profiles of biological pathways affected by CR in model organisms, suggesting that attainable levels of CR in a lifestyle intervention can benefit muscle health in humans.

PRMT5 mediates FoxO1 methylation and subcellular localization to regulate lipophagy in myogenic progenitors

Development is regulated by various factors, including protein methylation status. While PRMT5 is well known for its roles in oncogenesis by mediating symmetric di-methylation of arginine, its role in normal development remains elusive. Using Myod1Cre to drive Prmt5 knockout in embryonic myoblasts (Prmt5MKO), we dissected the role of PRMT5 in myogenesis. The Prmt5MKO mice are born normally but exhibit progressive muscle atrophy and premature death. Prmt5MKO inhibits proliferation and promotes premature differentiation of embryonic myoblasts, reducing the number and regenerative function of satellite cells in postnatal mice. Mechanistically, PRMT5 methylates and destabilizes FoxO1. Prmt5MKO increases the total FoxO1 level and promotes its cytoplasmic accumulation, leading to activation of autophagy and depletion of lipid droplets (LDs). Systemic inhibition of autophagy in Prmt5MKO mice restores LDs in myoblasts and moderately improves muscle regeneration. Together, PRMT5 is essential for muscle development and regeneration at least partially through mediating FoxO1 methylation and LD turnover.

Metformin Suppresses Stemness of Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Induced by Paclitaxel through FOXO3a

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) play a pivotal role in drug resistance and metastasis. Among the key players, Forkhead box O3a (FOXO3a) acts as a tumor suppressor. This study aimed to unravel the role of FOXO3a in mediating the inhibitory effect of metformin on cancer stemness derived from paclitaxel (PTX)-resistant non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells. We showed that CSC-like features were acquired by the chronic induction of resistance to PTX, concurrently with inactivation of FOXO3a. In line with this, knockdown of FOXO3a in PTX-sensitive cells led to changes toward stemness, while overexpression of FOXO3a in PTX-resistant cells mitigated stemness in vitro and remarkably curbed the tumorigenesis of NSCLC/PTX cells in vivo. Furthermore, metformin suppressed the self-renewal ability of PTX-resistant cells, reduced the expression of stemness-related markers (c-MYC, Oct4, Nanog and Notch), and upregulated FOXO3a, events concomitant with the activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). All these changes were recapitulated by silencing FOXO3a in PTX-sensitive cells. Intriguingly, the introduction of the AMPK dominant negative mutant offset the inhibitory effect of metformin on the stemness of PTX-resistant cells. In addition, FOXO3a levels were elevated by the treatment of PTX-resistant cells with MK2206 (an Akt inhibitor) and U0126 (a MEK inhibitor). Collectively, our findings indicate that metformin exerts its effect on FOXO3a through the activation of AMPK and the inhibition of protein kinase B (Akt) and MAPK/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (MEK), culminating in the suppression of stemness in paclitaxel-resistant NSCLC cells.

3D sheep rumen epithelial structures driven from single cells in vitro

Ruminants play a vital economic role as livestock, providing high-quality protein for humans. At present, 3D-cultured ruminant abomasum and intestinal organoids have been successfully established to study host and pathogen interaction. The rumen is a unique digestive organ of ruminants that occupies 70% of the volume of the digestive tract and its microbiota can decompose lignocellulose to support animal growth. Here we report a method for culturing rumen epithelial organoids. We found that single rumen epithelial cells form self-organized 3D structures representative of typical stratified squamous epithelium, which is similar to rumen epithelium. EGF, Noggin, Wnt3a, IGF-1, and FGF-10 significantly enhanced the seeding efficiency of organoids. Moreover, the inclusion of CHIR-99021, A83-01, SB202190, and Y-27632 is crucial for organoid formation and maintenance. Importantly, we demonstrate that rumen epithelial cells retain their ability to form organoids after passage, cryopreservation, and resuscitation. The rumen epithelial organoids express rumen cell type-specific genes, uptake fatty acids, and generate 2D cultures. In summary, our data demonstrate that it is feasible to establish organoids from single rumen epithelial cells, which is a novel in vitro system that may reduce the use of experimental animals.

From signalling pathways to targeted therapies: unravelling glioblastoma's secrets and harnessing two decades of progress

Glioblastoma, a rare, and highly lethal form of brain cancer, poses significant challenges in terms of therapeutic resistance, and poor survival rates for both adult and paediatric patients alike. Despite advancements in brain cancer research driven by a technological revolution, translating our understanding of glioblastoma pathogenesis into improved clinical outcomes remains a critical unmet need. This review emphasises the intricate role of receptor tyrosine kinase signalling pathways, epigenetic mechanisms, and metabolic functions in glioblastoma tumourigenesis and therapeutic resistance. We also discuss the extensive efforts over the past two decades that have explored targeted therapies against these pathways. Emerging therapeutic approaches, such as antibody-toxin conjugates or CAR T cell therapies, offer potential by specifically targeting proteins on the glioblastoma cell surface. Combination strategies incorporating protein-targeted therapy and immune-based therapies demonstrate great promise for future clinical research. Moreover, gaining insights into the role of cell-of-origin in glioblastoma treatment response holds the potential to advance precision medicine approaches. Addressing these challenges is crucial to improving outcomes for glioblastoma patients and moving towards more effective precision therapies.

Maternal diabetes increases FOXO1 activation during embryonic cardiac development

Maternal diabetes is known to affect heart development, inducing the programming of cardiac alterations in the offspring's adult life. Previous studies in the heart of adult offspring have shown increased activation of FOXO1 (a transcription factor involved in a wide variety of cellular functions such as apoptosis, cellular proliferation, reactive oxygen species detoxification, and antioxidant and pro-inflammatory processes) and of target genes related to inflammatory and fibrotic processes. In this work, we aimed to evaluate the effects of maternal diabetes on FOXO1 activation as well as on the expression of target genes relevant to the formation of the cardiovascular system during organogenesis (day 12 of gestation). The embryonic heart from diabetic rats showed increased active FOXO1 levels, reduced protein levels of mTOR (a nutrient sensor regulating cell growth, proliferation and metabolism) and reduced mTORC2-SGK1 pathway, which phosphorylates FOXO1. These alterations were related to increases in the levels of 4-hydroxynonenal (an oxidative stress marker) and increased mRNA levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase, angiopoietin-2 and matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP2) (all FOXO1 target genes relevant for cardiac development). Results also showed increased extracellular and intracellular immunolocalization of MMP2 in the myocardium and its projection into the lumen of the cavity (trabeculations) together with decreased immunostaining of connexin 43, a protein relevant for cardiac function that is target of MMP2. In conclusion, increases in active FOXO1 induced by maternal diabetes initiate early during embryonic heart development and are related to increases in markers of oxidative stress and of proinflammatory cardiac development, as well to an altered expression of proteolytic enzymes that regulate connexin 43. These alterations may lead to an altered programming of cardiovascular development in the embryonic heart of diabetic rats.

FoxO3 normalizes Smad3-induced arterial smooth muscle cell growth

Transition of arterial smooth muscle (ASM) from a quiescent, contractile state to a growth-promoting state is a hallmark of cardiovascular disease (CVD), a leading cause of death and disability in the United States and worldwide. While many individual signals have been identified as important mechanisms in this phenotypic conversion, the combined impact of the transcription factors Smad3 and FoxO3 in ASM growth is not known. The purpose of this study was to determine that a coordinated, phosphorylation-specific relationship exists between Smad3 and FoxO3 in the control of ASM cell growth. Using a rat in vivo arterial injury model and rat primary ASM cell lysates and fractions, validated low and high serum in vitro models of respective quiescent and growth states, and adenoviral (Ad-) gene delivery for overexpression (OE) of individual and combined Smad3 and/or FoxO3, we hypothesized that FoxO3 can moderate Smad3-induced ASM cell growth. Key findings revealed unique cellular distribution of Smad3 and FoxO3 under growth conditions, with induction of both nuclear and cytosolic Smad3 yet primarily cytosolic FoxO3; Ad-Smad3 OE leading to cytosolic and nuclear expression of phosphorylated and total Smad3, with almost complete reversal of each with Ad-FoxO3 co-infection in quiescent and growth conditions; Ad-FoxO3 OE leading to enhanced cytosolic expression of phosphorylated and total FoxO3, both reduced with Ad-Smad3 co-infection in quiescent and growth conditions; Ad-FoxO3 inducing expression and activity of the ubiquitin ligase MuRF-1, which was reversed with concomitant Ad-Smad3 OE; and combined Smad3/FoxO3 OE reversing both the pro-growth impact of singular Smad3 and the cytostatic impact of singular FoxO3. A primary takeaway from these observations is the capacity of FoxO3 to reverse growth-promoting effects of Smad3 in ASM cells. Additional findings lend support for reciprocal antagonism of Smad3 on FoxO3-induced cytostasis, and these effects are dependent upon discrete phosphorylation states and cellular localization and involve MuRF-1 in the control of ASM cell growth. Lastly, results showing capacity of FoxO3 to normalize Smad3-induced ASM cell growth largely support our hypothesis, and overall findings provide evidence for utility of Smad3 and/or FoxO3 as potential therapeutic targets against abnormal ASM growth in the context of CVD.

Lipid and glucose metabolism in senescence

Senescence is an inevitable biological process. Disturbances in glucose and lipid metabolism are essential features of cellular senescence. Given the important roles of these types of metabolism, we review the evidence for how key metabolic enzymes influence senescence and how senescence-related secretory phenotypes, autophagy, apoptosis, insulin signaling pathways, and environmental factors modulate glucose and lipid homeostasis. We also discuss the metabolic alterations in abnormal senescence diseases and anti-cancer therapies that target senescence through metabolic interventions. Our work offers insights for developing pharmacological strategies to combat senescence and cancer.

Aortic carboxypeptidase-like protein, a putative myokine, stimulates the differentiation and survival of bone-forming osteoblasts

A new target that stimulates bone formation is needed to overcome limitations of current anti-osteoporotic drugs. Myokines, factors secreted from muscles, may modulate it. In this study, we investigated the role of aortic carboxypeptidase-like protein (ACLP), which is highly expressed in skeletal muscles, on bone formation. MC3T3-E1 cells and/or calvaria osteoblasts were treated with recombinant N-terminal mouse ACLP containing a signal peptide [rmACLP (N)]. The expression and secretion of ACLP were higher in skeletal muscle and differentiated myotube than in other tissues and undifferentiated myoblasts, respectively. rmACLP (N) increased bone formation, ALP activity, and phosphorylated p38 mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase in osteoblasts; reversal was achieved by pre-treatment with a TGF-β receptor inhibitor. Under H2 O2 treatment, rmACLP (N) increased osteoblast survival, phosphorylated p38 MAP kinase, and the nuclear translocation of FoxO3a in osteoblasts. H2 O2 treatment caused rmACLP (N) to suppress its apoptotic, oxidative, and caspase-9 activities. rmACLP (N)-stimulated osteoblast survival was reversed by pre-treatment with a p38 inhibitor, a TGF-β-receptor II blocking antibody, and a FoxO3a shRNA. Conditioned media (CM) from muscle cells stimulated osteoblast survival under H2 O2 treatment, in contrast to CM from ACLP knockdown muscle cells. rmACLP (N) increased the expressions of FoxO3a target anti-oxidant genes such as Sod2, Trx2, and Prx5. In conclusion, ACLP stimulated the differentiation and survival of osteoblasts. This led to the stimulation of bone formation by the activation of p38 MAP kinase and/or FoxO3a via TGF-β receptors. These findings suggest a novel role for ACLP in bone metabolism as a putative myokine.

Luteolin regulates the distribution and function of organelles by controlling SIRT1 activity during postovulatory oocyte aging

The quality of oocytes determines their development competence, which will be rapidly lost if the oocytes are not fertilized at the proper time after ovulation. SIRT1, one of the sirtuin family members, has been proven to protect the quality of oocytes during postovulatory oocyte aging. However, evidence of the effect of SIRT1 on the activity of organelles including the mitochondria, the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), the Golgi apparatus, and the lysosomes in postovulatory aging oocyte is lacking. In this study, we investigated the distribution and function of organelles in postovulatory aged oocytes and discovered abnormalities. Luteolin, which is a natural flavonoid contained in vegetables and fruits, is an activator of SIRT1. When the oocytes were treated with luteolin, the abnormal distribution of mitochondria, ER, and Golgi complex were restored during postovulatory oocyte aging. The ER stress protein GRP78 and the lysosome protein LAMP1 increased, while the mitochondrial membrane potential and the Golgi complex protein GOLPH3 decreased in aged oocytes, and these were restored by luteolin treatment. EX-527, an inhibitor of SIRT1, disrupted the luteolin-mediated normal distribution and function of mitochondria, ER, Golgi apparatus, and lysosomes. In conclusion, we demonstrate that luteolin regulates the distribution and function of mitochondria, ER, Golgi apparatus, and lysosomes during postovulatory oocyte aging by activating SIRT1.

Expression Changes of SIRT1 and FOXO3a Significantly Correlate with Oxidative Stress Resistance Genes in AML Patients

The increased metabolism in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) malignant cells resulted in the production of high levels of free radicals, called oxidative stress conditions. To avoid this situation, malignant cells produce a considerable amount of antioxidant agents, which will lead to the release of a continuous low level of reactive oxygen species (ROS), causing genomic damage and subsequent clonal evolution. SIRT1 has a key role in driving the adaptation to this condition, mainly through the deacetylation of FOXO3a that affects the expression of oxidative stress resistance target genes such as Catalase and Manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD). The aim of this study is to simultaneously investigate the expression of SIRT1, FOXO3a, and free radical-neutralizing enzymes such as Catalase and MnSOD in AML patients and measure their simultaneous change in relation to each other. The gene expression was analyzed using Real Time-PCR in 65 AML patients and 10 healthy controls. Our finding revealed that expression of SIRT1, FOXO3a, MnSOD and Catalase was significantly higher in AML patients in comparison to healthy controls. Also, there was a significant correlation between the expression of SIRT1 and FOXO3a, as well as among the expression of FOXO3a, MnSOD and Catalase genes in patients. According to the results, the expression of genes involved in oxidative stress resistance was higher in AML patients, which possibly contributed to the development of malignant clones. Also, the correlation between the expression of SIRT1 and FOXO3a gene reflects the importance of these two genes in increased oxidative stress resistance of cancer cells.

Eurycomanone (EN) Activates Transcription Factor FoxO by Inhibiting the Insulin Signaling Pathway to Suppress the Development of Spodoptera frugiperda

The insulin-like signaling (IIS) pathway is essential for insect growth and development. In this study, we showed that eurycomanone (EN) is an active compound with growth inhibitory activity against Spodoptera frugiperda larvae. Experiments in cells and RNA-seq analysis in the midgut showed that EN targeted the IIS pathway in S. frugiperda to activate the transcription factor SfFoxO (S. frugiperda forkhead boxO) to regulate mRNA levels associated with nutrient catabolism. Additionally, mass spectrometry imaging revealed that EN was distributed in the larval gut and enriched in the inner membrane of the gut. Immunofluorescence, western blotting, and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) results showed that EN induced program cell death (PCD) in the larvae midgut. Thus, EN targeted the insulin receptor to inhibit the IIS signaling pathway, exerting inhibitory activity on the growth and development of S. frugiperda larvae. Our results suggest that EN has great potential as a botanical pesticide, and the IIS signaling pathway may be an effective target for botanical pesticides.

A Study Based on Network Pharmacology Decoding the Multi-Target Mechanism of Duhuo Jisheng Decoction for the Treatment of Intervertebral Disc Degeneration

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) poses a grim public health impact. Duhuo Jisheng Decoction (DJD), a traditional Chinese medicine formula, has recently received significant attention for its efficacy and safety in treating IDD. However, the pathological processes of IDD in which DJD interferes and molecular mechanism involved are poorly understood, which brings difficulties to the clinical practice of DJD for the treatment of IDD. This study systematically investigated the underlying mechanism of DJD treatment of IDD. Network pharmacology approaches were employed, integrating molecular docking and random walk with restart (RWR) algorithm, to identify key compounds and targets for DJD in the treatment of IDD. Bioinformatics approaches were used to further explore the biological insights in DJD treatment of IDD. The analysis identifies AKT1, PIK3R1, CHUK, ALB, TP53, MYC, NR3C1, IL1B, ERBB2, CAV1, CTNNB1, AR, IGF2, and ESR1 as key targets. Responses to mechanical stress, oxidative stress, cellular inflammatory responses, autophagy, and apoptosis are identified as the critical biological processes involved in DJD treatment of IDD. The regulation of DJD targets in extracellular matrix components, ion channel regulation, transcriptional regulation, synthesis and metabolic regulation of reactive oxygen products in the respiratory chain and mitochondria, fatty acid oxidation, the metabolism of Arachidonic acid, and regulation of Rho and Ras protein activation are found to be potential mechanisms in disc tissue response to mechanical stress and oxidative stress. MAPK, PI3K/AKT, and NF-κB signaling pathways are identified as vital signaling pathways for DJD to treat IDD. Quercetin and Kaempferol are assigned a central position in the treatment of IDD. This study contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of the mechanism of DJD in treating IDD. It provides a reference for applying natural products to delay the pathological process of IDD.

Functional analysis of selenok, selenot and selenop promoters and their regulation by selenium in yellow catfish Pelteobagrus fulvidraco

The selenok, selenot and selenop are three key selenoproteins involved in stress response. Our study, using the yellow catfish Pelteobagrus fulvidraco as the experimental animal, obtained the 1993-bp, 2000-bp and 1959-bp sequences of selenok, selenot and selenop promoters, respectively, and predicted the binding sites of several transcriptional factors on their promoters, such as Forkhead box O 4 (FoxO4), activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4), Kruppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2). Selenium (Se) increased the activities of the selenok, selenot and selenop promoters. FoxO4 and Nrf2 can directly bind with selenok promoter and controlled selenok promoter activities positively; KLF4 and Nrf2 can directly bind with selenot promoter and controlled selenot promoter activities positively; FoxO4 and ATF4 can directly bind to selenop promoter and regulated selenop promoter activities positively. Se promoted FoxO4 and Nrf2 binding to selenok promoter, KLF4 and Nrf2 binding to selenot promoter, and FoxO4 and ATF4 binding to selenop promoter. Thus, we provide the first evidence for FoxO4 and Nrf2 bindnig elements in selenok promoter, KLF4 and Nrf2 binding elements in selenot promoter, and FoxO4 and ATF4 binding elements in selenop promoter, and offer novel insight into regulatory mechanism of these selenoproteins induced by Se.

Angelica sinensis polysaccharide extends lifespan and ameliorates aging-related diseases via insulin and TOR signaling pathways, and antioxidant ability in Drosophila

Angelica sinensis polysaccharide (ASP) is one of the principal active components of Angelica sinensis (AS) that is widely used in natural medicine and has various pharmacological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and enhancing immunity. However, its pharmacological role of anti-aging needs to be clarified. Here, we detected the beneficial effect and mechanism of ASP on healthy aging and aging-related diseases using the Drosophila melanogaster model. The results showed that oral administration of ASP remarkably extended lifespan, increased reproduction, improved climbing ability, and increased resistance to starvation and oxidative stress in aged flies, mainly via inhibiting insulin signaling (IIS) and TOR signaling and boosting antioxidant ability. Further, ASP supplementation protected against aging-induced intestinal homeostasis imbalance via inhibiting intestinal stem cells (ISCs) hyperproliferation and oxidative damage, improved sleep disorders via rescuing sleep rhythm in aged flies, and had a neuroprotective effect on Aβ42 transgenic flies. Taken together, our findings shed light on the possibility that ASP could increase lifespan, improve healthy aging, and ultimately reduce the incidence of age-related illnesses. It holds promise as a candidate for anti-aging intervention and treatment for aging-associated disorders.

Elevated Foxo3a and Fas-ligand expression in human periapical granulomas as a potential treatment target

OBJECTIVE

Periapical granuloma is a common periodontitis type involving chronic inflammation; however, the efficacy of current therapies is limited. Its molecular pathogenesis also remains obscure. Forkhead box transcription factor class o3a (Foxo3a) and Fas-ligand (FasL) are associated with chronic inflammation. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to clarify the roles of Foxo3a and FasL in periapical granuloma pathophysiology.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Periapical lesions were obtained from patients during endodontic surgery and tooth extraction; those diagnosed with periapical granulomas using haematoxylin and eosin staining were further analysed. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed for Foxo3a and FasL, and real-time polymerase chain reaction was performed for FOXO3A, FASL and interleukin (IL)-1β. Healthy gingival tissues were also examined as controls.

RESULTS

Neutrophils, lymphocytes and plasma cells in the periapical granulomas, but not healthy tissues, expressed Foxo3a. Dual-colour immunofluorescence imaging revealed Foxo3a and FasL co-expression in leukocytes. FOXO3A, FASL and IL-1β mRNA levels in healthy gingival tissues were significantly lower than those in the periapical granulomas. Additionally, FOXO3A and IL-1β expressions were negatively correlated.

CONCLUSIONS

Phosphorylated Foxo3a may reduce IL-1β release by inhibiting apoptosis through FasL in periapical periodontitis and prevent exacerbation. Thus, Foxo3a is a potential therapeutic agent for periapical periodontitis.

Molecular Hydrogen: an Emerging Therapeutic Medical Gas for Brain Disorders

Oxidative stress and neuroinflammation are the main physiopathological changes involved in the initiation and progression of various neurodegenerative disorders or brain injuries. Since the landmark finding reported in 2007 found that hydrogen reduced the levels of peroxynitrite anions and hydroxyl free radicals in ischemic stroke, molecular hydrogen's antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects have aroused widespread interest. Due to its excellent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, hydrogen therapy via different routes of administration exhibits great therapeutic potential for a wide range of brain disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, depression, anxiety, traumatic brain injury, ischemic stroke, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis. This paper reviews the routes for hydrogen administration, the effects of hydrogen on the previously mentioned brain disorders, and the primary mechanism underlying hydrogen's neuroprotection. Finally, we discuss hydrogen therapy's remaining issues and challenges in brain disorders. We conclude that understanding the exact molecular target, finding novel routes, and determining the optimal dosage for hydrogen administration is critical for future studies and applications.

The miR-27a-3p/FTO axis modifies hypoxia-induced malignant behaviors of glioma cells

<p indent="0mm">Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is one of the most malignant types of central nervous system (CNS) tumors. N6-methyladenine (m6A) RNA modification is a main type of RNA modification in eukaryotic cells. In this study, we find that the m6A RNA methylation eraser FTO is dramatically downregulated in glioma samples and cell lines, particularly in intermediate and core regions and hypoxia-challenged glioma cells. <italic>In vitro</italic>, FTO overexpression inhibits the hypoxia-induced capacities of glioma cells to proliferate, migrate and invade, and decreases the percentage of cells with m6A RNA methylation. <italic>In vivo</italic>, FTO overexpression inhibits tumor growth in the xenograft model and decreases the protein levels of migration markers, including Vimentin and Twist. miR-27a-3p is upregulated within glioma intermediate and core regions and hypoxia-challenged glioma cells. miR-27a-3p inhibits the expression of FTO via direct binding to FTO. miR-27a-3p overexpression promotes hypoxia-challenged glioma cell aggressiveness, whereas FTO overexpression partially diminishes the oncogenic effects of miR-27a-3p overexpression. FTO overexpression promotes the nuclear translocation of FOXO3a and upregulates the expression levels of the <sc>FOXO3a</sc> downstream targets BIM, BNIP3, BCL-6, and PUMA, possibly by interacting with FOXO3a. Conclusively, FTO serves as a tumor suppressor in glioma by suppressing hypoxia-induced malignant behaviors of glioma cells, possibly by promoting the nuclear translocation of FOXO3a and upregulating FOXO3a downstream targets. miR-27a-3p is a major contributor to FTO downregulation in glioma under hypoxia. </p>.

Knockdown of lncRNA SNHG16 attenuates myocardial ischemia‑reoxygenation injury via targeting miR‑183/FOXO1 axis

Accumulating evidence shows that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are widely involved in cellular processes of myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R). The present study investigated the functions of lncRNA SNHG16 in myocardial I/R and the mechanism mediated by SNHG16. The myocardial I/R rat and cell model and hypoxia/reoxygenation injury (H/R) models of H9C2 cardiomyocytes were established to detect the expression of SNHG16. Cell Counting Kit-8, flow cytometric and western blot assays were conducted to detect cell viability, apoptosis and protein expression. Myocardial cell apoptosis was assessed by TUNEL staining. Dual-luciferase gene reporter was applied to determine the interaction between the molecules. The expressions of SNHG16 were upregulated in myocardial I/R injury models. Inhibition of SNHG16 relieved myocardial I/R injury in vivo and in vitro silencing of SNHG16 alleviated H/R induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis. To explore the regulatory mechanism, it was discovered that SNHG16 directly interacted with miR-183, while forkhead box O1 (FoxO1) was a target of microRNA (miR)-183. Findings from rescue assays revealed that miR-183 inhibitor and upregulation of FOXO1 can rescue the effect of sh-SNHG16 on H/R-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis. The results indicated that the lncRNA SNHG16/miR-183/FOXO1 axis exacerbated myocardial cell apoptosis in myocardial I/R injury, suggesting SNHG16 as a potential therapeutic target for myocardial I/R injury.

Oxidative stress as a critical factor might involve in intervertebral disc degeneration via regulating NOXs/FOXOs

BACKGROUND

Oxidative stress is involved in many musculoskeletal diseases, such as osteoarthritis. However, the effect of oxidative stress on intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is still unclear. This study was aimed to provide an evidence of oxidative stress involved in IDD, and propose a new insight into pathogenesis of IDD.

METHODS

Sixteen rats were randomly divided into sham and cervical muscle section (CMS) groups. The intervertebral disc degeneration scores (DDS) were assessed by histological staining at 8 weeks. Intracellular reactive oxygen species mainly comes from nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidases (NOXs), while its clearance relies on antioxidant enzymes which regulated by forkhead transcription factor O (FOXOs). Thus, the oxidative stress was evaluated by the expression of NOXs and FOXOs. Meanwhile, the protein expression of Aggrecan, matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13), NOXs, FOXOs and antioxidant proteins (Manganese superoxide dismutase: MnSOD and Catalase) were tested in nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs) under tert-butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) intervention.

RESULTS

CMS induced IDD by enhancing DDS in 8 weeks, and the expression of NOX2 and NOX4 were significantly increased and the expression of FOXO3 and FOXO4 were remarkably decreased in the CMS rats. With the stimulation of TBHP, the contents of NOX2 and NOX4 in NPCs increased significantly, and the antioxidant proteins of FOXO1, FOXO3, FOXO4, MnSOD and Catalase and the matrix proteins of Aggrecan decreased remarkably, while MMP-13 significantly increased after TBHP intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study proposed that regulation of NOXs and FOXOs alters oxidative stress in intervertebral disc, which indicates that the intervention of oxidative stress would provide a new strategy to the treatment of IDD.

Activation of the Akt/FoxO3 signaling pathway enhances oxidative stress-induced autophagy and alleviates brain damage in a rat model of ischemic stroke

Autophagy has been implicated in stroke. Our previous study showed that the FoxO3 transcription factor promotes autophagy after transient cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R). However, whether the Akt/FoxO3 signaling pathway plays a regulatory role in autophagy in cerebral I/R-induced oxidative stress injury is still unclear. The present study aims to investigate the effects of the Akt/FoxO3 signaling pathway on autophagy activation and neuronal injury in vitro and in vivo. By employing LY294002 or insulin to regulate the Akt/FoxO3 signaling pathway, we found that insulin pretreatment increased cell viability, decreased reactive oxygen species production, and enhanced the expression of antiapoptotic and autophagy-related proteins following H₂O₂ injury in HT22 cells. In addition, insulin significantly decreased neurological deficit scores and infarct volume and increased the expression of antiapoptotic and autophagy-related proteins following I/R injury in rats. However, LY294002 showed the opposite effects under these conditions. Altogether, these results indicate that Akt/FoxO3 signaling pathway activation inhibited oxidative stress-mediated cell death through activation of autophagy. Our study supports a critical role for the Akt/FoxO3 signaling pathway in autophagy activation in stroke.

Integrative Multi-OMICs Identifies Therapeutic Response Biomarkers and Confirms Fidelity of Clinically Annotated, Serially Passaged Patient-Derived Xenografts Established from Primary and Metastatic Pediatric and AYA Solid Tumors

Establishment of clinically annotated, molecularly characterized, patient-derived xenografts (PDXs) from treatment-naïve and pretreated patients provides a platform to test precision genomics-guided therapies. An integrated multi-OMICS pipeline was developed to identify cancer-associated pathways and evaluate stability of molecular signatures in a panel of pediatric and AYA PDXs following serial passaging in mice. Original solid tumor samples and their corresponding PDXs were evaluated by whole-genome sequencing, RNA-seq, immunoblotting, pathway enrichment analyses, and the drug−gene interaction database to identify as well as cross-validate actionable targets in patients with sarcomas or Wilms tumors. While some divergence between original tumor and the respective PDX was evident, majority of alterations were not functionally impactful, and oncogenic pathway activation was maintained following serial passaging. CDK4/6 and BETs were prioritized as biomarkers of therapeutic response in osteosarcoma PDXs with pertinent molecular signatures. Inhibition of CDK4/6 or BETs decreased osteosarcoma PDX growth (two-way ANOVA, p < 0.05) confirming mechanistic involvement in growth. Linking patient treatment history with molecular and efficacy data in PDX will provide a strong rationale for targeted therapy and improve our understanding of which therapy is most beneficial in patients at diagnosis and in those already exposed to therapy.

Interventions on Gut Microbiota for Healthy Aging

In recent years, the improvement in health and social conditions has led to an increase in the average lifespan. Since aging is the most important risk factor for the majority of chronic human diseases, the development of therapies and intervention to stop, lessen or even reverse various age-related morbidities is an important target to ameliorate the quality of life of the elderly. The gut microbiota, that is, the complex ecosystem of microorganisms living in the gastrointestinal tract, plays an important role, not yet fully understood, in maintaining the host's health and homeostasis, influencing metabolic, oxidative and cognitive status; for this reason, it is also named "the forgotten endocrine organ" or "the second brain". On the other hand, the gut microbiota diversity and richness are affected by unmodifiable factors, such as aging and sex, and modifiable ones, such as diet, pharmacological therapies and lifestyle. In this review, we discuss the changes, mostly disadvantageous, for human health, induced by aging, in microbiota composition and the effects of dietary intervention, of supplementation with probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, psychobiotics and antioxidants and of physical exercise. The development of an integrated strategy to implement microbiota health will help in the goal of healthy aging.

Neuroprotective Effects of Neuropeptide Y on Human Neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y Cells in Glutamate Excitotoxicity and ER Stress Conditions

Neuropeptide Y (NPY), a sympathetic neurotransmitter, is involved in various physiological functions, and its dysregulation is implicated in several neurodegenerative diseases. Glutamate excitotoxicity, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and oxidative stress are the common mechanisms associated with numerous neurodegenerative illnesses. The present study aimed to elucidate the protective effects of NPY against glutamate toxicity and tunicamycin-induced ER stress in the human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cell line. We exposed the SH-SY5Y cells to glutamate and tunicamycin for two different time points and analyzed the protective effects of NPY at different concentrations. The protective effects of NPY treatments were assessed by cell viability assay, and the signalling pathway changes were evaluated by biochemical techniques such as Western blotting and immunofluorescence assays. Our results showed that treatment of SH-SY5Y cells with NPY significantly increased the viability of the cells in both glutamate toxicity and ER stress conditions. NPY treatments significantly attenuated the glutamate-induced pro-apoptotic activation of ERK1/2 and JNK/BAD pathways. The protective effects of NPY were further evident against tunicamycin-induced ER stress. NPY treatments significantly suppressed the ER stress activation by downregulating BiP, phospho-eIF2α, and CHOP expression. In addition, NPY alleviated the Akt/FoxO3a pathway in acute oxidative conditions caused by glutamate and tunicamycin in SH-SY5Y cells. Our results demonstrated that NPY is neuroprotective against glutamate-induced cell toxicity and tunicamycin-induced ER stress through anti-apoptotic actions.

Lamin A/C-dependent chromatin architecture safeguards naïve pluripotency to prevent aberrant cardiovascular cell fate and function

Tight control of cell fate choices is crucial for normal development. Here we show that lamin A/C plays a key role in chromatin organization in embryonic stem cells (ESCs), which safeguards naïve pluripotency and ensures proper cell fate choices during cardiogenesis. We report changes in chromatin compaction and localization of cardiac genes in Lmna-/- ESCs resulting in precocious activation of a transcriptional program promoting cardiomyocyte versus endothelial cell fate. This is accompanied by premature cardiomyocyte differentiation, cell cycle withdrawal and abnormal contractility. Gata4 is activated by lamin A/C loss and Gata4 silencing or haploinsufficiency rescues the aberrant cardiovascular cell fate choices induced by lamin A/C deficiency. We uncover divergent functions of lamin A/C in naïve pluripotent stem cells and cardiomyocytes, which have distinct contributions to the transcriptional alterations of patients with LMNA-associated cardiomyopathy. We conclude that disruption of lamin A/C-dependent chromatin architecture in ESCs is a primary event in LMNA loss-of-function cardiomyopathy.

FOXO4 mediates resistance to oxidative stress in lens epithelial cells by modulating the TRIM25/Nrf2 signaling

Oxidative stress damage to the lens is a key factor in most cataracts. Forkhead box O 4 (FOXO4), a member of the forkhead box O family, plays a pivotal role in oxidative stress. FOXO4 is upregulated in lens of age-related cataract patients, but its role in cataract has not been elucidated. Herein, we investigated the role and mechanism of FOXO4 during oxidative stress damage in lens epithelial cells. H₂O₂ treatment enhanced FOXO4 expression in HLEpiC cells. Short hairpin RNAs mediated FOXO4 silence aggravated H₂O₂-induced cell apoptosis. In addition, upon H₂O₂ exposure, silencing of FOXO4 reduced SOD and CAT activities, as well as increased intracellular MDA and ROS levels. FOXO4 silencing also inhibited Nrf2 nuclear translocation, followed by reducing the expressions of Nrf2-governed antioxidant genes HO-1 and NOQ-1. Exogenous overexpression of FOXO4 was also involved in this study and exhibited opposite effects of FOXO4-silencing. Mechanistically, FOXO4 directly bound the promoter of TRIM25 and regulated its transcription, thereby activating the Nrf2 signaling. Taken together, in the condition of oxidative stress, the expression of FOXO4 showed a compensatory upregulation and it exhibited an anti-oxidative effect by modulating the transcription of TRIM25, thus activating the Nrf2 signaling. The FOXO4/TRIM25/Nrf2 axis may be associated with the pathological mechanisms of cataract.

FOXO4 alleviates hippocampal neuronal damage in epileptic mice via the miR-138-5p/ROCK2 axis

Epilepsy (EP) is one of the most universal neurological disorders. This study investigated the mechanism of forkhead box protein O4 (FOXO4) on hippocampal neuronal damage in EP mice. Initially, the EP mouse model and the in vitro HT-22 cell model were established. EP seizures and neuronal damage in mice were assessed. FOXO4, microRNA (miR)-138-5p, and rho-associated coiled-coil containing protein kinase 2 (ROCK2) levels in hippocampal tissues or HT-22 cells were examined. The cell viability and apoptosis of HT-22 cells were determined. The concentrations of oxidative stress markers and the levels of inflammatory cytokines in hippocampal tissues or HT-22 cells were detected. We found that FOXO4 was poorly expressed in EP. FOXO4 overexpression alleviated hippocampal neuronal damage in EP mice and improved HT-22 cell viability and inhibited apoptosis, and decreased oxidative stress and inflammation in hippocampal tissue and HT-22 cells. The bindings of miR-138-5p to FOXO4 and ROCK2 were analyzed, which showed that FOXO4 promoted miR-138-5p via binding to the miR-138-5p promoter region, and miR-138-5p inhibited ROCK2 expression. Joint experiments showed that miR-138-5p suppression or ROCK2 overexpression reversed the alleviation of FOXO4 overexpression on hippocampal neuronal damage. FOXO4 inhibited ROCK2 expression via promoting miR-138-5p expression, thus alleviating hippocampal neuronal damage in EP mice.

Drosophila as a Model Organism to Study Basic Mechanisms of Longevity

The spatio-temporal regulation of gene expression determines the fate and function of various cells and tissues and, as a consequence, the correct development and functioning of complex organisms. Certain mechanisms of gene activity regulation provide adequate cell responses to changes in environmental factors. Aside from gene expression disorders that lead to various pathologies, alterations of expression of particular genes were shown to significantly decrease or increase the lifespan in a wide range of organisms from yeast to human. Drosophila fruit fly is an ideal model system to explore mechanisms of longevity and aging due to low cost, easy handling and maintenance, large number of progeny per adult, short life cycle and lifespan, relatively low number of paralogous genes, high evolutionary conservation of epigenetic mechanisms and signalling pathways, and availability of a wide range of tools to modulate gene expression in vivo. Here, we focus on the organization of the evolutionarily conserved signaling pathways whose components significantly influence the aging process and on the interconnections of these pathways with gene expression regulation.

Loranthus tanakae Franch. & Sav. Suppresses Inflammatory Response in Cigarette Smoke Condensate Exposed Bronchial Epithelial Cells and Mice

Loranthus tanakae Franch. & Sav. found in China, Japan, and Korea is traditionally used for managing arthritis and respiratory diseases. In this study, we analyzed the components of L. tanakae 70% ethanol extract (LTE) and investigated the therapeutic effects of LTE on pulmonary inflammation using cells exposed to cigarette smoke condensate (CSC) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in vitro and in vivo in mice and performed a network analysis between components and genes based on a public database. We detected quercitrin, afzelin, rhamnetin 3-rhamnoside, and rhamnocitrin 3-rhamnoside in LTE, which induced a significant reduction in inflammatory mediators including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and inflammatory cells in CSC exposed H292 cells and in mice, accompanied by a reduction in inflammatory cell infiltration into lung tissue. In addition, LTE increased translocation into the nuclei of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). By contrast, the activation of nuclear factor (NF)-κB, induced by CSC exposure, decreased after LTE application. These results were consistent with the network pharmacological analysis. In conclusion, LTE effectively attenuated pulmonary inflammation caused by CSC+LPS exposure, which was closely involved in the enhancement of Nrf2 expression and suppression of NF-κB activation. Therefore, LTE may be a potential treatment option for pulmonary inflammatory diseases including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Circular RNAs Involved in the Regulation of the Age-Related Pathways

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a class of covalently circular noncoding RNAs that have been extensively studied in recent years. Aging is a process related to functional decline that is regulated by signal transduction. An increasing number of studies suggest that circRNAs can regulate aging and multiple age-related diseases through their involvement in age-related signaling pathways. CircRNAs perform several biological functions, such as acting as miRNA sponges, directly interacting with proteins, and regulating transcription and translation to proteins or peptides. Herein, we summarize research progress on the biological functions of circRNAs in seven main age-related signaling pathways, namely, the insulin-insulin-like, PI3K-AKT, mTOR, AMPK, FOXO, p53, and NF-κB signaling pathways. In these pathways, circRNAs mainly function as miRNA sponges. In this review, we suggest that circRNAs are widely involved in the regulation of the main age-related pathways and are potential biomarkers for aging and age-related diseases.

Identification and verification of ferroptosis-related genes in the synovial tissue of osteoarthritis using bioinformatics analysis

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a major factor causing pain and disability. Studies performed to date have suggested that synovitis is possibly a critical OA-related pathological change. Ferroptosis represents a novel type of lipid peroxidation-induced iron-dependent cell death. However, its effect on OA remains largely unclear.

Objective: This work focused on identifying and validating the possible ferroptosis-related genes (FRGs) involved in synovitis of OA through bioinformatics analysis.

Materials and Methods: The microarray dataset GSE55235 was downloaded in the database Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). By the Venn diagram and GEO2R, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and ferroptosis DEGs (FDEGs) were detected. DEGs were screened by GO and KEGG enrichment analysis, as well as protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis. Besides, the software Cytoscape and database STRING were utilized to construct hub gene networks. Moreover, this study used the database NetworkAnalyst to predict the target miRNAs of the hub genes. Finally, the hub genes were confirmed by analysis of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve on the GSE12021 and GSE1919 databases. Considering the relationship between ferroptosis and immunity, this study applied CIBERSORTx to analyze the immune infiltration in OA in addition.

Results: This work discovered seven genes, including ATF3, IL6, CDKN1A, IL1B, EGR1, JUN, and CD44, as the hub FDEGs. The ROC analysis demonstrated that almost all hub genes had good diagnostic properties in GSE12021 and GSE 1919.

Conclusion: This study discovered seven FDEGs to be the possible diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets of synovitis during OA, which sheds more light on the pathogenesis of OA at the transcriptome level.

FOXL2 and FOXA1 cooperatively assemble on the TP53 promoter in alternative dimer configurations

Although both the p53 and forkhead box (FOX) family proteins are key transcription factors associated with cancer progression, their direct relationship is unknown. Here, we found that FOX family proteins bind to the non-canonical homotypic cluster of the p53 promoter region (TP53). Analysis of crystal structures of FOX proteins (FOXL2 and FOXA1) bound to the p53 homotypic cluster indicated that they interact with a 2:1 stoichiometry accommodated by FOX-induced DNA allostery. In particular, FOX proteins exhibited distinct dimerization patterns in recognition of the same p53-DNA; dimer formation of FOXA1 involved protein–protein interaction, but FOXL2 did not. Biochemical and biological functional analyses confirmed the cooperative binding of FOX proteins to the TP53 promoter for the transcriptional activation of TP53. In addition, up-regulation of TP53 was necessary for FOX proteins to exhibit anti-proliferative activity in cancer cells. These analyses reveal the presence of a discrete characteristic within FOX family proteins in which FOX proteins regulate the transcription activity of the p53 tumor suppressor via cooperative binding to the TP53 promoter in alternative dimer configurations.

Fasting and cancer: from yeast to mammals

Fasting and fasting mimicking diets extend lifespan and healthspan in mouse models and decrease risk factors for cancer and other age-related pathologies in humans. Normal cells respond to fasting and the consequent decrease in nutrients by down-regulating proto-oncogene pathways to enter a stress-resistant mode, which protects them from different cancer therapies. In contrast, oncogene mutations and the constitutive activation of pathways including RAS, AKT, and PKA allow cancer cells to disobey fasting-dependent anti-growth signal. Importantly, in different tumor types, fasting potentiates the toxicity of various therapies by increasing reactive oxygen species and oxidative stress, which ultimately leads to DNA damage and cell death. This effect is not limited to chemotherapy, since periodic fasting/FMD cycles potentiate the effects of tyrosine kinase inhibitors, hormone therapy, radiotherapy, and pharmacological doses of vitamin C. In addition, the anticancer effects of fasting/FMD can also be tumor-independent and involve an immunotherapy-like activation of T cell-dependent attack of tumor cells. Supported by a range of pre-clinical studies, clinical trials are beginning to confirm the safety and efficacy of fasting/FMD cycles in improving the potential of different cancer therapies, while decreasing side effects to healthy cells and tissues.

Regulatory Mechanisms of Prg4 and Gdf5 Expression in Articular Cartilage and Functions in Osteoarthritis

Owing to the rapid aging of society, the numbers of patients with joint disease continue to increase. Accordingly, a large number of patients require appropriate treatment for osteoarthritis (OA), the most frequent bone and joint disease. Thought to be caused by the degeneration and destruction of articular cartilage following persistent and excessive mechanical stimulation of the joints, OA can significantly impair patient quality of life with symptoms such as knee pain, lower limb muscle weakness, or difficulty walking. Because articular cartilage has a low self-repair ability and an extremely low proliferative capacity, healing of damaged articular cartilage has not been achieved to date. The current pharmaceutical treatment of OA is limited to the slight alleviation of symptoms (e.g., local injection of hyaluronic acid or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs); hence, the development of effective drugs and regenerative therapies for OA is highly desirable. This review article summarizes findings indicating that proteoglycan 4 (Prg4)/lubricin, which is specifically expressed in the superficial zone of articular cartilage and synovium, functions in a protective manner against OA, and covers the transcriptional regulation of Prg4 in articular chondrocytes. We also focused on growth differentiation factor 5 (Gdf5), which is specifically expressed on the surface layer of articular cartilage, particularly in the developmental stage, describing its regulatory mechanisms and functions in joint formation and OA pathogenesis. Because several genetic studies in humans and mice indicate the involvement of these genes in the maintenance of articular cartilage homeostasis and the presentation of OA, molecular targeting of Prg4 and Gdf5 is expected to provide new insights into the aetiology, pathogenesis, and potential treatment of OA.