Targeting macrophage TFEB-14-3-3 epsilon Interface by naringenin inhibits abdominal aortic aneurysm

Comprehensive evaluation of differential expression of piRNAs in abdominal aortic aneurysm

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a prevalent and fatal cardiovascular condition characterized by a high incidence rate and nonspecific clinical manifestations, with no effective preventive or therapeutic measures currently available. Piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) have been identified as significant biomarkers for disease diagnosis due to their essential functions in transposon suppression, maintenance of genomic stability, immune response, and epigenetic modulation. The piRNA is intimately associated with various diseases such as cardiac hypertrophy, tumors, and neurodegeneration, yet its role in AAA is unclear. In this study, we employed gene sequencing to analyze the piRNA expression profiles in AAA vascular tissues and predicted variations in their target genes. Our findings revealed a total of 1368 piRNAs with abnormal expression in the AAA group relative to the control group, including 1240 up-regulated and 128 down-regulated piRNAs (|log2(fold change)| ≥ 1.0), with 82 demonstrating significant differences (P < 0.05). Through bioinformatics analysis, it was determined that the Wnt signaling pathway, calcium signaling, TNF-α and the p53 pathway are crucial mechanisms by which piRNAs contribute to the development of AAA. RT-qPCR confirmed that hsa_piR_011324 was the most significantly up-regulated piRNA in AAA (P < 0.0001), corroborating RNA sequencing results. Further results indicate that hsa_piR_011324 promotes phenotypic transformation of human aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (HAVSMCs), enhances the activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), increased up-regulation of inflammation-related markers IL-1β and TNF-α, and induces apoptotic processes. In conclusion, the present study emphasizes the important regulatory role of hsa_piR_011324 in AAA, suggesting that it holds promise as a prospective target for diagnostic and therapeutic intervention.

Macrophage heme oxygenase-1 modulates peroxynitrite-mediated vascular injury and exacerbates abdominal aortic aneurysm development

Inflammatory reactions mediated by macrophages are profoundly related to the depletion of smooth muscle cells (SMCs) in abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) development. The findings from our previous investigation indicate that heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) in macrophages exacerbates proinflammatory responses and oxidative damage. Therefore, the aim of this work was to gain insight into the function of HO-1 derived from macrophages and elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms involved in AAA development. In this study, we discovered a dramatic increase in HO-1 expression in the infiltrated macrophages in experimental calcium phosphate-induced AAA tissues. Myeloid conditional HO-1-deficient mice displayed slower luminal area enlargement, as well as diminished inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS)-positive M1 macrophage activation, peroxynitrite generation, and SMCs apoptosis in aneurysmal tissues compared with littermate controls. Furthermore, we showed that inhibiting HO-1 eliminated the protein expression of iNOS induced by lipopolysaccharide/interferon-γ in bone marrow-derived macrophages, whereas the mRNA expression remained unaffected. Suppressing iNOS in macrophages alleviated SMCs apoptosis by decreasing nitric oxide generation in a coculture system in vitro. In summary, our study illustrates that macrophage-derived HO-1 strengthens AAA development through boosting the production of iNOS-dependent peroxynitrite and the deterioration of SMCs. These findings reveal potential therapeutic targets for resolving aneurysmal diseases.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This article illustrates the role of macrophage-derived heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) in the development of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). HO-1 deletion in macrophages hindered AAA development by reducing inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS)-dependent peroxynitrite production and smooth muscle cells (SMCs) apoptosis in vivo. Mechanistically, inhibition of HO-1 reduced the stimulated iNOS protein production in macrophages by lipopolysaccharide/interferon-γ. Moreover, suppressing iNOS in macrophages prevented SMCs apoptosis by decreasing nitric oxide generation in vitro.

Myeloid Cells in Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a life-threatening vascular disorder with high mortality upon rupture, yet effective pharmacotherapy remains lacking. This review synthesizes the pivotal roles of myeloid cells-key mediators of aortic inflammation and remodeling-in AAA pathogenesis, highlighting their therapeutic targeting potential.

RECENT FINDINGS

Single-cell RNA sequencing has revealed myeloid diversity in AAA. Among these myeloid populations, macrophages (including interferon-responsive monocytes, pro- and anti-inflammatory subsets, and reparative populations) emerge as central regulators of AAA pathogenesis, influencing disease initiation, progression, and tissue repair processes. Neutrophils promote vascular injury via neutrophil extracellular traps, while dendritic cells bridge innate-adaptive immunity. Eosinophils and myeloid-derived suppressor cells exhibited protective effects by immunoregulation. Mechanistic studies identified transcriptional, metabolic, and epigenetic regulators of myeloid plasticity. Clonal hematopoiesis and trained immunity may serve as potential novel mechanisms of myeloid cells involved in AAA. These mechanistic insights have inspired therapeutic innovation, with nanoparticle-targeted myeloid cell therapies showing promising immunomodulatory effects in mitigating AAA progression. Myeloid cells play a pivotal role in AAA pathogenesis by driving inflammatory responses, extracellular matrix degradation, and maladaptive vascular remodeling. Their functional heterogeneity, encompassing both destructive and protective subsets, highlights the need for precisely targeted therapeutic approaches. While single-cell technologies have significantly advanced our understanding of myeloid diversity, clinical translation remains challenged by microenvironmental crosstalk and potential off-target effects. Future research should prioritize: (1) spatial multi-omics characterization of myeloid-vascular interactions, (2) development of precision therapies targeting clonal hematopoiesis-driven subpopulations, and (3) combinatorial strategies to reprogram pathogenic myeloid phenotypes. Addressing these critical gaps may lead to transformative therapies for aneurysm stabilization, ultimately fulfilling the urgent unmet needs in AAA clinical management.

Naringenin Targets PI3K p85alpha to Suppress PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway and Ameliorate Disordered MMP-9 Secretion in Cigarette Smoke Extract-Induced Alveolar Macrophages In Vitro

BACKGROUND

Naringenin has demonstrated potential therapeutic effects against cigarette smoke-induced lung injury; however, its underlying mechanisms of regulating matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) in alveolar macrophages remain unclear.

METHODS

The regulatory mechanisms of naringenin in cigarette smoke extract (CSE)-induced alveolar macrophages were investigated using proteomics, and then, naringenin's targets were further validated by Western blot, molecular docking, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA), and enzyme activity assay.

RESULTS

The proteomics revealed that the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway might play a crucial role in naringenin's inhibition of MMP-9. Western blot analysis confirmed that naringenin significantly inhibited CSE-upregulated PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and reduced MMP-9 expression in MH-S cells. Notably, the PI3K activator 740Y-P reversed naringenin's effects on MMP-9. Additionally, molecular docking, MD simulations, and CETSA identified PI3K p85alpha as the potential binding site for naringenin, and naringenin markedly inhibited CSE-induced PI3K activity. In in vitro experiments, naringenin inhibiting MMP-9 secretion in alveolar macrophages contributed to alleviating elastin and E-cadherin damage in alveolar epithelial cells. Furthermore, naringenin effectively suppressed CSE-induced MMP-9 secretion in primary mouse alveolar macrophages and human THP-1-differentiated macrophages.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings revealed that naringenin, a potential candidate for treating smoking-induced lung injury, directly targeted PI3K p85alpha, inhibiting PI3K activity and MMP-9 expression in CSE-induced alveolar macrophages via suppressing the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.

Macrophage polarization in cancer and beyond: from inflammatory signaling pathways to potential therapeutic strategies

Macrophages are innate immune cells distributed throughout the body that play vital roles in organ development, tissue homeostasis, and immune surveillance. Macrophages acquire a binary M1/M2 polarized phenotype through signaling cascades upon sensing different signaling molecules in the environment, thereby playing a core role in a series of immune tasks, rendering precise regulation essential. M1/M2 macrophage phenotypes regulate inflammatory responses, while controlled activation of inflammatory signaling pathways is involved in regulating macrophage polarization. Among the relevant signaling pathways, we focus on the six well-characterized NF-κB, MAPK, JAK-STAT, PI3K/AKT, inflammasome, and cGAS-STING inflammatory pathways, and elucidate their roles and crosstalk in macrophage polarization. Furthermore, the effects of many environmental signals that influence macrophage polarization are investigated by modulating these pathways in vivo and in vitro. We thus detail the physiological and pathophysiological status of these six inflammatory signaling pathways and involvement in regulating macrophage polarization in cancer and beyond, as well as describe potential therapeutic approaches targeting these signaling pathways. In this review, the latest research advances in inflammatory signaling pathways regulating macrophage polarization are reviewed, as targeting these inflammatory signaling pathways provides suitable strategies to intervene in macrophage polarization and various tumor and non-tumor diseases.

Identification of a Gene Expression Signature to Predict the Risk of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm in Psoriasis Patients

Background 

Psoriasis is an immune-mediated, hereditary condition that presents itself in the skin or joints, or even both. Increasing evidence indicates that psoriasis is connected to an elevated risk of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), owing to their shared inflammatory pathogenesis. Nevertheless, the interplay between psoriasis and AAA lacks sufficient documentation.

Methods

 Through WGCNA and DEGs, psoriasis and AAA phenotype-related genes were identified. Identifying risk genes involved in both psoriasis and AAA involved generating candidate genes by finding the common intersection of hub genes, followed by using LASSO regression. Following this, a nomogram was created to forecast the development of psoriasis alongside AAA, and was then assessed through a ROC curve, DCA, calibration curve, and PR curve. Five algorithms, namely CIBERSORT, ssGSEA, ESTIMATE, MCPcounter, and QuanTIseq, were utilized to assess immune infiltration differences between high and low-risk groups. Simultaneously, we verified the differential gene expression in different tissues.

Results

A total of 1073 psoriasis hub genes and 128 AAA hub genes were generated. A Venn diagram revealed 20 candidate genes that were common to both hub genes of psoriasis and AAA. Of these, six genes (CCR7, CD3D, GBP5, HCLS1, IL7R, and ITGAL) were identified as risk genes. The gene signature generated by these genes demonstrated high accuracy in predicting psoriasis and AAA. Using five algorithms for immune infiltration analysis, an abundance of inflammatory cells was observed in high-risk subgroups. The above six genes were found to be highly expressed in both psoriasis tissue and abdominal aortic aneurysm tissue.

Conclusions 

The study resulted in the identification of a novel gene signature, including six high-risk genes, that has enhanced our knowledge of the common causes and control mechanisms of psoriasis and AAA. These findings are anticipated to pave the way for promising therapeutic targets in mitigating the comorbidities of cardiovascular disease.

Dihydromyricetin mitigates abdominal aortic aneurysm via transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation of heme oxygenase-1 in vascular smooth muscle cells

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a deadly condition of the aorta, carrying a significant risk of death upon rupture. Currently, there is a dearth of efficacious pharmaceutical interventions to impede the advancement of AAA and avert it from rupturing. Here, we investigated dihydromyricetin (DHM), one of the predominant bioactive flavonoids in Ampelopsis grossedentata (A. grossedentata), as a potential agent for inhibiting AAA. DHM effectively blocked the formation of AAA in angiotensin II-infused apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE-/-) mice. A combination of network pharmacology and whole transcriptome sequencing analysis revealed that DHM's anti-AAA action is linked to heme oxygenase (HO)-1 (Hmox-1 for the rodent gene) and hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Remarkably, DHM caused a robust rise (∼10-fold) of HO-1 protein expression in VSMCs, thereby suppressing VSMC inflammation and oxidative stress and preserving the VSMC contractile phenotype. Intriguingly, the therapeutic effect of DHM on AAA was largely abrogated by VSMC-specific Hmox1 knockdown in mice. Mechanistically, on one hand, DHM increased the transcription of Hmox-1 by triggering the nuclear translocation and activation of HIF-1α, but not nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2). On the other hand, molecular docking, combined with cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA), isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), drug affinity responsive target stability (DARTS), co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP), and site mutant experiments revealed that DHM bonded to HO-1 at Lys243 and prevented its degradation, thereby resulting in considerable HO-1 buildup. In summary, our findings suggest that naturally derived DHM has the capacity to markedly enhance HO-1 expression in VSMCs, which may hold promise as a therapeutic strategy for AAA.

Target Discovery Driven by Chemical Biology and Computational Biology

Target identification is crucial for drug screening and development because it can reveal the mechanism of drug action and ensure the reliability and accuracy of the results. Chemical biology, an interdisciplinary field combining chemistry and biology, can assist in this process by studying the interactions between active molecular compounds and proteins and their physiological effects. It can also help predict potential drug targets or candidates, develop new biomarker assays and diagnostic reagents, and evaluate the selectivity and range of active compounds to reduce the risk of off-target effects. Chemical biology can achieve these goals using techniques such as changing protein thermal stability, enzyme sensitivity, and molecular structure and applying probes, isotope labeling and mass spectrometry. Concurrently, computational biology employs a diverse array of computational models to predict drug targets. This approach also offers innovative avenues for repurposing existing drugs. In this paper, we review the reported chemical biology and computational biology techniques for identifying different types of targets that can provide valuable insights for drug target discovery.

Myeloid Cell mPGES-1 Deletion Attenuates Calcium Phosphate-induced Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm in Male Mice

Microsomal PGE2 synthase (mPGES)-1 is the key enzyme responsible for synthesizing inflammatory prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). Our previous studies have shown that deletion mPGES-1 in myeloid cells hinders atherogenesis, suppresses vascular proliferative response to injury and enhances survival after myocardial infarction. Here we aimed to further explore the influence of myeloid cell mPGES-1 deletion in abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) formation. The AAA was triggered by applying 0.5 M calcium phosphate (CaPO4) to the infrarenal aorta of both myeloid mPGES-1 knockout (Mac-mPGES-1-KO) and their littermate control Mac-mPGES-1-WT mice. AAA induction was assessed by calculating the expansion of the infrarenal aortic diameter 4 weeks after CaPO4 application. The maximum diameters of the aortas were measured by morphometry and the mean maximal diameters were calculated. Paraffin sections of the infrarenal aortas were examined for morphological analysis and immunohistochemical staining. The results showed that myeloid cell mPGES-1 deletion significantly mitigated AAA formation, including reducing expansion of the infrarenal aorta, preventing elastic lamellar degradation, and decreasing aortic calcium deposition. Immunohistochemical staining further indicated that macrophage infiltration and matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) expression was attenuated in the Mac-mPGES-1-KO aortas. Consistently, in vitro experiments showed that expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and MMPs was significantly reduced when mPGES-1 was lacking in the primary cultured peritoneal macrophages. These data altogether demonstrated that deletion of mPGES-1 in myeloid cells may attenuate AAA formation and targeting myeloid cell mPGES-1 could potentially offer an effective strategy for the treatment and prevention of vascular inflammatory diseases.

A nomoscore of four genes for predicting the rupture risk in abdominal aortic aneurysm patients with osteoarthritis

BACKGROUND

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) represents one of the most life-threatening cardiovascular diseases and is increasingly becoming a significant global public health concern. The aneurysms-osteoarthritis syndrome (AOS) has gained recognition, as patients with this syndrome often exhibit early-stage osteoarthritis (OA) and have a substantially increased risk of rupture, even with mild dilation of the aneurysm. The aim of this study was to discover potential biomarkers that can predict the occurrence of AAA rupture in patients with OA.

METHODS

Two gene expression profile datasets (GSE98278, GSE51588) and two single-cell RNA-seq datasets (GSE164678, GSE152583) were obtained from the GEO database. Functional enrichment analysis, PPI network construction, and machine learning algorithms, including LASSO, Random Forest, and SVM-RFE, were utilized to identify hub genes. In addition, a nomogram and ROC curves were generated to predict the risk of rupture in patients with AAA. Moreover, we analyzed the immune cell infiltration in the AAA tissue microenvironment by CIBERSORT and validated key gene expression in different macrophage subtypes through single-cell analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 105 intersecting DEGs that showed consistent changes between rAAA and OA dataset were identified. From these DEGs, four hub genes (PAK1, FCGR1B, LOX and PDPN) were selected by machine learning. High predictive performance was observed for the nomogram based on these hub genes, with an AUC of 0.975 (95 % CI: 0.942-1.000). Abnormal immune cell infiltration was detected in rAAA and correlated significantly with the hub genes. Ruptured AAA cases exhibited higher nomoscore values and lower M2 macrophage infiltration compared to stable AAA. Validation in animal models (PPE+BAPN-induced rAAA) confirmed the significant role of these biomarkers in AAA pathology.

CONCLUSION

The present study successfully identified four potential hub genes (PAK1, FCGR1B, LOX and PDPN) and developed a robust predictive nomogram to assess the risk of AAA rupture. The findings also shed light on the connection between hub genes and immune cell components in the microenvironment of rAAA. These findings support future research on key genes in AAA patients with OA, providing insights for novel management strategies for AAA.

Protease activated receptor 2 deficiency retards progression of abdominal aortic aneurysms by modulating phenotypic transformation of vascular smooth muscle cells via ERK signaling

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is characterized by localized structural deterioration of the aortic wall, leading to progressive dilatation and rupture. Protease activated receptor 2 (PAR2) dependent signaling has been implicated in the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis through the regulation of smooth muscle cell function. However, its role in AAA remains unclear. This study investigates the function and potential mechanism of PAR2 in AAA progression. Angiotensin II (Ang II) and β-aminopropionitrile (BAPN) were administered to wild type (WT) mice to induce AAA. Increased PAR2 expression was observed in the aneurysmal tissues of these mice and in Ang II-treated vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). We demonstrated that PAR2 deficiency markedly inhibited aorta dilatation and vascular remodeling in the AAA model relative to WT mice. Immunohistochemical staining showed significant upregulation of contractile markers and a reduction in synthetic markers in PAR2 knockout mice. Consistent with in vivo results, PAR2 knockdown diminished the effects of Ang II on VSMCs phenotypic switching, resulting in reduced proliferation and migration. Conversely, a PAR2 agonist (SLIGRL) induced the opposite effect, which was partially mitigated by pretreatment with an extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) inhibitor (PD98059). This study suggests that PAR2 deficiency restrains aortic expansion and mitigates adverse vascular remodeling in AAA models, mediated in part by the ERK signaling pathway, indicating that PAR2 could be a potential therapeutic target for mitigating AAA development or progression.

Cohort-specific boolean models highlight different regulatory modules during Parkinson's disease progression

Parkinson's disease (PD) involves complex molecular interactions and diverse comorbidities. To better understand its molecular mechanisms, we employed systems medicine approaches using the PD map, a detailed repository of PD-related interactions and applied Probabilistic Boolean Networks (PBNs) to capture the stochastic nature of molecular dynamics. By integrating cohort-level and real-world patient data, we modeled PD's subtype-specific pathway deregulations, providing a refined representation of its molecular landscape. Our study identifies key regulatory biomolecules and pathways that vary across PD subtypes, offering insights into the disease's progression and patient stratification. These findings have significant implications for the development of targeted therapeutic interventions.

Versatility of 14-3-3 proteins and their roles in bone and joint-related diseases

Bone and joint-related diseases, including osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and bone tumors, pose significant health challenges due to their debilitating effects on the musculoskeletal system. 14-3-3 proteins, a family of conserved regulatory molecules, play a critical role in the pathology of these diseases. This review discusses the intricate structure and multifunctionality of 14-3-3 proteins, their regulation of signaling pathways, and their interactions with other proteins. We underscore the significance of 14-3-3 proteins in the regulation of osteoblasts, osteoclasts, chondrocytes, and bone remodeling, all key factors in the maintenance and dysfunction of bone and joint systems. Specific focus is directed toward elucidating the contribution of 14-3-3 proteins in the pathology of OA, RA, and bone malignancies, where dysregulated 14-3-3-mediated signaling cascades have been implicated in the disease processes. This review illuminates how the perturbation of 14-3-3 protein interactions can lead to the pathological manifestations observed in these disorders, including joint destruction and osteolytic activity. We highlight cutting-edge research that positions 14-3-3 proteins as potential biomarkers for disease progression and as innovative therapeutic targets, offering new avenues for disease intervention and management.

Establishment of Mouse Models of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a chronic vascular disease that commonly affects elderly individuals but has recently increased in younger populations. As the aneurysm grows, it can cause compression symptoms such as abdominal pain, rupture, and bleeding, which are absent in the early stages. Once an AAA ruptures and causes bleeding, the mortality rate is alarmingly high. Currently, the pathogenesis for AAA is unknown, and therapeutic options are limited, necessitating improvement in treatment efficacy. An essential research method for studying the processes and potential treatment of AAA is establishing animal models using mice. The present study provides a detailed overview of the widely used AAA mouse animal models and their construction strategies, advantages, disadvantages, scope of applications, and prospects.

Medical treatments for abdominal aortic aneurysm: an overview of clinical trials

INTRODUCTION

Abdominal aortic aneurysm is a progressive, segmental, abdominal aortic dilation associated with a high mortality rate. Abdominal aortic aneurysms with diameters larger than 55 mm are associated with a high risk of rupture, and the most effective treatment options are surgical repair. Close observation and lifestyle adjustments are recommended for smaller abdominal aortic aneurysms with lower rupture risk. The development of medical therapies that limit or prevent the progression, expansion, and eventual rupture of abdominal aortic aneurysms remains an unmet clinical need.

AREAS COVERED

This review provides an overview of completed and ongoing clinical trials examining the efficacies of various drug classes, including antibiotics, antihypertensive drugs, hypolipidemic drugs, hypoglycemic drugs, and other potential therapies for abdominal aortic aneurysms. A search of PubMed, Web of Science, Clinical Trials, and another six clinical trial registries was conducted in January 2024.

EXPERT OPINION

None of the drugs have enough evidence to indicate that they can effectively inhibit the dilation of abdominal aortic aneurysm. More clinical trial data is required to support the efficacy of propranolol. Future research should also explore different drug delivery mechanisms, such as nanoparticles, to elevate drug concentration at the aneurysm wall.

The cellular and molecular targets of natural products against metabolic disorders: a translational approach to reach the bedside

Metabolic disorders, including obesity, dyslipidemia, diabetes, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and metabolic syndrome, are characterized by insulin resistance, abnormalities in circulating cholesterol and lipid profiles, and hypertension. The most common pathophysiologies of metabolic disorders are glucose/lipid metabolism dysregulation, insulin resistance, inflammatory response, and oxidative stress. Although several agents have been approved for the treatment of metabolic disorders, there is still a strong demand for more efficacious drugs with less side effects. Natural products have been critical sources of drug research and discovery for decades. However, the usefulness of bioactive natural products is often limited by incomplete understanding of their direct cellular targets. In this review, we highlight the current understanding of the established and emerging molecular mechanisms of metabolic disorders. We further summarize the therapeutic effects and underlying mechanisms of natural products on metabolic disorders, with highlights on their direct cellular targets, which are mainly implicated in the regulation of glucose/lipid metabolism, insulin resistance, metabolic inflammation, and oxidative stress. Finally, this review also covers the clinical studies of natural products in metabolic disorders. These progresses are expected to facilitate the application of these natural products and their derivatives in the development of novel drugs against metabolic disorders.

Therapeutic potential of natural products and underlying targets for the treatment of aortic aneurysm

Aortic aneurysm is a vascular disease characterized by irreversible vasodilatation that can lead to dissection and rupture of the aortic aneurysm, a life-threatening condition. Thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) and abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) are two main types. The typical treatments for aortic aneurysms are open surgery and endovascular aortic repair, which are only indicated for more severe patients. Most patients with aneurysms have an insidious onset and slow progression, and there are no effective drugs to treat this stage. The inability of current animal models to perfectly simulate all the pathophysiological states of human aneurysms may be the key to this issue. Therefore, elucidating the molecular mechanisms of this disease, finding new therapeutic targets, and developing effective drugs to inhibit the development of aneurysms are the main issues of current research. Natural products have been applied for thousands of years to treat cardiovascular disease (CVD) in China and other Asian countries. In recent years, natural products have combined multi-omics, computational biology, and integrated pharmacology to accurately analyze drug components and targets. Therefore, the multi-component and multi-target complexity of natural products have made them a potentially ideal treatment for multifactorial diseases such as aortic aneurysms. Natural products have regained popularity worldwide. This review provides an overview of the known natural products for the treatment of TAA and AAA and searches for potential cardiovascular-targeted natural products that may treat TAA and AAA based on various cellular molecular mechanisms associated with aneurysm development.

Neddylation activated TRIM25 desensitizes triple-negative breast cancer to paclitaxel via TFEB-mediated autophagy

BACKGROUND

Paclitaxel (PTX) treatment resistance is an important factor leading to poor prognosis in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), therefore there is an urgent need to identify new target for combination therapy. Neddylation is a post-translational process that introduces a ubiquitin-like protein called neural precursor cell expressed developmentally downregulated protein 8 (NEDD8). Previous studies have found that neddylation is activated in multiple tumors, but its relationship with PTX chemotherapy sensitivity has not been reported.

METHODS

Differences in UBC12 and NEDD8 expression levels between PTX-sensitive and PTX-insensitive TNBC tissues were validated using public databases and immunohistochemistry. The in vitro and in vivo functional experiments were used to observe the effect of neddylation inhibition combined with PTX therapy on tumor progression. Co-IP, western blot and PCR assays were used to investigate the molecular mechanisms. Molecular docking was used to simulate the protein binding of UBC12 and TRIM25. Molecular dynamics simulation was used to observe the changes in TRIM25 protein conformation.

RESULTS

We found that in TNBC that is insensitive to PTX, NEDD8 and NEDD8 conjugating enzyme UBC12 are highly expressed. Treatment with the NEDD8-activating enzyme (NAE) inhibitor mln4924 or knockdown of UBC12 significantly increased the sensitivity of the tumor to PTX, and this increase in sensitivity is related to UBC12-mediated autophagy activation. Mechanistically, UBC12 can transfer NEDD8 to E3 ubiquitin ligase tripartite motif containing 25 (TRIM25) at K117. Molecular dynamics simulations indicate that the neddylation modification of TRIM25 reduces steric hindrance in its RING domain, facilitating the binding of TRIM25 and ubiquitylated substrates. Subsequently, TRIM25 promotes the nuclear translocation of transcription factor EB (TFEB) and transcription of autophagy related genes by increasing K63-polyubiquitination of TFEB, thereby reducing tumor sensitivity to PTX.

CONCLUSIONS

Neddylation is activated in PTX-insensitive TNBC. Specifically, autophagy gene transcriptional activation mediated by the UBC12/TRIM25/TFEB axis reduces TNBC sensitivity to PTX. Neddylation suppression combination with PTX treatment shows a synergistic anti-tumor effect.

The cytoplasmic sensor, the AIM2 inflammasome: A precise therapeutic target in vascular and metabolic diseases

Cardio-cerebrovascular diseases encompass pathological changes in the heart, brain and vascular system, which pose a great threat to health and well-being worldwide. Moreover, metabolic diseases contribute to and exacerbate the impact of vascular diseases. Inflammation is a complex process that protects against noxious stimuli but is also dysregulated in numerous so-called inflammatory diseases, one of which is atherosclerosis. Inflammation involves multiple organ systems and a complex cascade of molecular and cellular events. Numerous studies have shown that inflammation plays a vital role in cardio-cerebrovascular diseases and metabolic diseases. The absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2) inflammasome detects and is subsequently activated by double-stranded DNA in damaged cells and pathogens. With the assistance of the mature effector molecule caspase-1, the AIM2 inflammasome performs crucial biological functions that underpin its involvement in cardio-cerebrovascular diseases and related metabolic diseases: The production of interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), interleukin-18 (IL-18) and N-terminal pore-forming Gasdermin D fragment (GSDMD-N) mediates a series of inflammatory responses and programmed cell death (pyroptosis and PANoptosis). Currently, several agents have been reported to inhibit the activity of the AIM2 inflammasome and have the potential to be evaluated for use in clinical settings. In this review, we systemically elucidate the assembly, biological functions, regulation and mechanisms of the AIM2 inflammasome in cardio-cerebrovascular diseases and related metabolic diseases and outline the inhibitory agents of the AIM2 inflammasome as potential therapeutic drugs.

Pentamethylquercetin attenuates angiotensin II-induced abdominal aortic aneurysm formation by blocking nuclear translocation of C/EBPβ at Lys253

BACKGROUND

Pentamethylquercetin (PMQ) is a natural polymethyl flavonoid that possesses anti-apoptotic and other biological properties. Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), a fatal vascular disease with a high risk of rupture, is associated with phenotypic switching and apoptosis of medial vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of PMQ on the development of AAA and the underlying mechanism.

METHODS

ApoE-/- mice were continuously infused with angiotensin II (Ang II) for 4 weeks to develop the AAA model. Intragastric administration of PMQ was initiated 5 days before Ang II infusion and continued for 4 weeks. In vitro, VSMCs were cultured and pretreated with PMQ, stimulated with Ang II. Real-time PCR, western blotting, and immunofluorescence staining were used to examine the roles and mechanisms of PMQ on the phenotypic switching and apoptosis of VSMCs.

RESULTS

PMQ dose-dependently reduced the incidence of Ang II-induced AAA, aneurysm diameter enlargement, elastin degradation, VSMCs phenotypic switching and apoptosis. Furthermore, PMQ also inhibited phenotypic switching and apoptosis in Ang II-stimulated VSMCs. PMQ exerted protective effects by regulating the C/EBPβ/PTEN/AKT/GSK-3β axis. AAV-mediated overexpression of PTEN reduced the therapeutic effects of PMQ in the AAA model mice, suggesting that the effects of PMQ on Ang II-mediated AAA formation were related to the PTEN/AKT/GSK-3β axis. PMQ inhibited VSMCs phenotypic switching and apoptosis by bounding to C/EBPβ at Lys253 with hydrogen bond to regulate C/EBPβ nuclear translocation and PTEN/AKT/GSK-3β axis, thereby inhibiting Ang II-induced AAA formation.

CONCLUSIONS

Pentamethylquercetin inhibits angiotensin II-induced abdominal aortic aneurysm formation by bounding to C/EBPβ at Lys253. Therefore, PMQ prevents the formation of AAA and reduces the incidence of AAA.

Liraglutide attenuates angiotensin II-induced aortic dissection and aortic aneurysm via inhibiting M1 macrophage polarization in APOE -/- mice

BACKGROUND

Aortic Aneurysm and Dissection (AAD) are severe cardiovascular conditions with potentially lethal consequences such as aortic rupture. Existing studies suggest that liraglutide, a long-acting glucagon-like peptide receptor (GLP-1R) agonist, offers protective benefits across various cardiovascular diseases. However, the efficacy of liraglutide in mitigating AAD development is yet to be definitively elucidated.

METHODS

Ang II (Angiotension II) infusion of APOE-/- mouse model with intraperitoneal injection of liraglutide (200 μg/kg) to study the role of GLP-1R in AAD formation. Bone Marrow Derived Macrophages (BMDM) and Raw264.7 were incubated with LPS, liraglutide, exendin 9-39 or LY294002 alone or in combination. SMC phenotype switching was examined in a macrophage and vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) co-culture system. An array of analytical methods, including Western Blot, Immunofluorescence Staining, Enzyme-LinkedImmunosorbent Assay, Real-Time Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction, RNA-seq, and so on were employed.

RESULTS

Our investigation revealed a significant increase in M1 macrophage polarization and GLP-1R expression in aortas of AD patients and Ang II-induced AAD APOE-/- mice. Administering liraglutide in APOE-/- mice notably reduced Ang II-induced AAD incidence and mortality. It was found that liraglutide inhibits M1 macrophage polarization primarily via GLP-1R activation, and subsequently modulates vascular smooth muscle cell phenotypic switching was the primary mechanism. RNA-Seq and subsequent KEGG enrichment analysis identified CXCL3, regulated by the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, as a key element in liraglutide's modulation of M1 macrophage polarization.

CONCLUSION

Our study found liraglutide exhibits protective effects against AAD by modulating M1 macrophage polarization, suppressing CXCL3 expression through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. This makes it a promising therapeutic target for AAD, offering a new avenue in AAD management.

Naringenin Inhibits Acid Sphingomyelinase-Mediated Membrane Raft Clustering to Reduce NADPH Oxidase Activation and Vascular Inflammation

Macrophage inflammation and oxidative stress promote atherosclerosis progression. Naringenin is a naturally occurring flavonoid with antiatherosclerotic properties. Here, we elucidated the effects of naringenin on monocyte/macrophage endothelial infiltration and vascular inflammation. We found naringenin inhibited oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL)-induced pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α toward an M2 macrophage phenotype and inhibited oxLDL-induced TLR4 (Toll-like receptor 4) membrane translocation and downstream NF-κB transcriptional activity. Results from flow cytometric analysis showed that naringenin reduced monocyte/macrophage infiltration in the aorta of high-fat-diet-treated ApoE-deficient mice. The aortic cytokine levels were also inhibited in naringenin-treated mice. Further, we found that naringenin reduced lipid raft clustering and acid sphingomyelinase (ASMase) membrane gathering and inhibited the TLR4 and NADPH oxidase subunit p47phox membrane recruitment, which reduced the inflammatory response. Recombinant ASMase treatment or overexpression of ASMase abolished the naringenin function and activated macrophage and vascular inflammation. We conclude that naringenin inhibits ASMase-mediated lipid raft redox signaling to attenuate macrophage activation and vascular inflammation.

Medium-Dose Formoterol Attenuated Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Induced by EPO via β2AR/cAMP/SIRT1 Pathway

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a life-threatening vascular disease but effective drugs for treatment of AAA are still lacking. Recently, erythropoietin (EPO) is reported to induce AAA formation in apolipoprotein-E knock out (ApoE-/-) mice but an effective antagonist is unknown. In this study, formoterol, a β2 adrenergic receptor (β2AR) agonist, is found to be a promising agent for inhibiting AAA. To test this hypothesis, ApoE-/- mice are treated with vehicle, EPO, and EPO plus low-, medium-, and high-dose formoterol, respectively. The incidence of AAA is 0, 55%, 35%,10%, and 55% in these 5 groups, respectively. Mechanistically, senescence of vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) is increased by EPO while decreased by medium-dose formoterol both in vivo and in vitro, manifested by the altered expression of senescence biomarkers including phosphorylation of H2AXserine139, senescence-associated β-galactosidase activity, and P21 protein level. In addition, expression of sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) in aorta is decreased in EPO-induced AAA but remarkably elevated by medium-dose formoterol. Knockdown of β2AR and blockage of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) attenuate the inhibitory role of formoterol in EPO-induced VSMC senescence. In summary, medium-dose formoterol attenuates EPO-induced AAA via β2AR/cAMP/SIRT1 pathways, which provides a promising medication for the treatment of AAA.

Naringenin nanoparticles targeting cyclin B1 suppress the progression of rheumatoid arthritis-associated lung cancer by inhibiting fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition

There is growing evidence of an elevated risk of lung cancer in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The poor prognosis of rheumatoid arthritis-associated lung cancer and the lack of therapeutic options pose an even greater challenge to the clinical management of patients. This study aimed to identify potential molecular targets associated with the progression of rheumatoid arthritis-associated lung cancer and examine the efficacy of naringenin nanoparticles targeting cyclin B1. Mendelian randomizatio analysis revealed that rheumatoid arthritis has a positive correlation with the risk of lung cancer. Cyclin B1 was significantly upregulated in patients with rheumatoid arthritis-associated lung cancer and was significantly overexpressed in synovial tissue fibroblasts. Furthermore, the overexpression of cyclin B1 in rheumatoid arthritis fibroblast-like synoviocytes, which promotes their proliferation and fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition, can significantly contribute to the growth and infiltration of lung cancer cells. Importantly, our prepared naringenin nanoparticles targeting cyclin B1 effectively attenuated proliferation and fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition by blocking cells at the G2/M phase. In vivo experiments, naringenin nanoparticles targeting cyclin B1 significantly alleviated the development of collagen-induced arthritis and lung orthotopic tumors. Collectively, our results reveal that naringenin nanoparticles targeting cyclin B1 can suppress the progression of rheumatoid arthritis-associated lung cancer by inhibiting fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition. These findings provide new insights into the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis-associated lung cancer therapy.

Naringenin regulates cigarette smoke extract-induced extracellular vesicles from alveolar macrophage to attenuate the mouse lung epithelial ferroptosis through activating EV miR-23a-3p/ACSL4 axis

BACKGROUND

Alveolar macrophages are one of the momentous regulators in pulmonary inflammatory responses, which can secrete extracellular vesicles (EVs) packing miRNAs. Ferroptosis, an iron-dependent cell death, is associated with cigarette smoke-induced lung injury, and EVs have been reported to regulate ferroptosis by transporting intracellular iron. However, the regulatory mechanism of alveolar macrophage-derived EVs has not been clearly illuminated in smoking-related pulmonary ferroptosis. Despite the known anti-ferroptosis effects of naringenin in lung injury, whether naringenin controls EVs-mediated ferroptosis has not yet been explored.

PURPOSE

We explore the effects of EVs from cigarette smoke-stimulated alveolar macrophages in lung epithelial ferroptosis, and elucidate the EV miRNA-mediated pharmacological mechanism of naringenin.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Differential and ultracentrifugation were conducted to extract EVs from different alveolar macrophages treatment groups in vitro. Both intratracheal instilled mice and treated epithelial cells were used to investigate the roles of EVs from alveolar macrophages involved in ferroptosis. Small RNA sequencing analysis was performed to distinguish altered miRNAs in EVs. The ferroptotic effects of EV miRNAs were examined by applying dual-Luciferase reporter assay and miRNA inhibitor transfection experiment.

RESULTS

Here, we firstly reported that EVs from cigarette smoke extract-induced alveolar macrophages (CSE-EVs) provoked pulmonary epithelial ferroptosis. The ferroptosis inhibitor ferrostatin-1 treatment reversed these changes in vitro. Moreover, EVs from naringenin and CSE co-treated alveolar macrophages (CSE+Naringenin-EVs) markedly attenuated the lung epithelial ferroptosis compared with CSE-EVs. Notably, we identified miR-23a-3p as the most dramatically changed miRNA among Normal-EVs, CSE-EVs, and CSE+Naringenin-EVs. Further experimental investigation showed that ACSL4, a pro-ferroptotic gene leading to lipid peroxidation, was negatively regulated by miR-23a-3p. The inhibition of miR-23a-3p diminished the efficacy of CSE+Naringenin-EVs.

CONCLUSION

Our findings firstly provided evidence that naringenin elevated the EV miR-23a-3p level from CSE-induced alveolar macrophages, thereby inhibiting the mouse lung epithelial ferroptosis via targeting ACSL4, and further complemented the mechanism of cigarette-induced lung injury and the protection of naringenin in a paracrine manner. The administration of miR-23a-3p-enriched EVs has the potential to ameliorate pulmonary ferroptosis.

Macrophages reprogramming improves immunotherapy of IL-33 in peritoneal metastasis of gastric cancer

Peritoneal metastasis (PM) has a suppressive tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) that limits the effects of immunotherapy. This study aimed to investigate the immunomodulatory effects of intraperitoneal administration of IL-33, a cytokine that is reported to potentiate antitumor immunity and inhibit metastasis. We found survival was significantly prolonged in patients with high IL-33 mRNA expression. In immunocompetent mice, intraperitoneal administration of IL-33 could induce a celiac inflammatory environment, activate immunologic effector cells, and reverse the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, which effectively delayed tumor progression and PM of gastric cancer. Mechanistically, IL-33 could induce M2 polarization by activating p38-GATA-binding protein 3 signaling. IL-33 combined with anti-CSF1R or p38 inhibitor to regulate tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) had a synergistic antitumor effect. Inducing a local inflammatory milieu by IL-33 administration provided a novel approach for treating peritoneal metastasis, which, when combined with TAM reprogramming to reshape TIME, can achieve better treatment efficacy.

Transcription Factor EB: A Promising Therapeutic Target for Ischemic Stroke

Transcription factor EB (TFEB) is an important endogenous defensive protein that responds to ischemic stimuli. Acute ischemic stroke is a growing concern due to its high morbidity and mortality. Most survivors suffer from disabilities such as numbness or weakness in an arm or leg, facial droop, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, confusion, impaired balance or coordination, or loss of vision. Although TFEB plays a neuroprotective role, its potential effect on ischemic stroke remains unclear. This article describes the basic structure, regulation of transcriptional activity, and biological roles of TFEB relevant to ischemic stroke. Additionally, we explore the effects of TFEB on the various pathological processes underlying ischemic stroke and current therapeutic approaches. The information compiled here may inform clinical and basic studies on TFEB, which may be an effective therapeutic drug target for ischemic stroke.

Comprehensive view of macrophage autophagy and its application in cardiovascular diseases

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the primary drivers of the growing public health epidemic and the leading cause of premature mortality and economic burden worldwide. With decades of research, CVDs have been proven to be associated with the dysregulation of the inflammatory response, with macrophages playing imperative roles in influencing the prognosis of CVDs. Autophagy is a conserved pathway that maintains cellular functions. Emerging evidence has revealed an intrinsic connection between autophagy and macrophage functions. This review focuses on the role and underlying mechanisms of autophagy-mediated regulation of macrophage plasticity in polarization, inflammasome activation, cytokine secretion, metabolism, phagocytosis, and the number of macrophages. In addition, autophagy has been shown to connect macrophages and heart cells. It is attributed to specific substrate degradation or signalling pathway activation by autophagy-related proteins. Referring to the latest reports, applications targeting macrophage autophagy have been discussed in CVDs, such as atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, heart failure, and myocarditis. This review describes a novel approach for future CVD therapies.

Acetylation of MOB1 mediates polyphyllin II-reduced lysosome biogenesis in breast cancer by promoting the cytoplasmic retention of the YAP/TFEB coactivator complex

BACKGROUND

Autophagy‒lysosome abnormalities are associated with the malignant progression of cancer. Transcription factor EB (TFEB) is the master transcriptional regulator of the autophagy‒lysosome machinery, and its abnormal activity is associated with autophagy-lysosome dysfunction. Polyphyllin II (PPII), an active steroidal saponin isolated from the rhizomes of Paris polyphylla, has been demonstrated to have antitumor activity.

PURPOSE

Here, we explored the antitumor activity of PPII in breast cancer (BC) and further clarified its mechanism.

METHODS

Autophagosome was detected by transmission electron microscopy, an autophagy indicator system, and western blot. The effect of PPII on lysosomal activity was evaluated by flow cytometry, a lysosomal cathepsin activity assay, and acridine orange staining. The effect of PPII on the signaling pathway was evaluated by Western blot, gene expression measurement, gene alterations. The binding of PPII and MOB1 was examined through a drug affinity responsive target stability assay. The pharmacokinetic parameters of PPII were evaluated in Sprague-Dawley rats.

RESULTS

PPII exhibits therapeutic potential in BC by inducing the accumulation of autophagosome. PPII promotes the cytoplasmic retention of YAP/TFEB, which is responsible for the accumulation of autophagosome in BC. PPII activates Hippo signaling to promote cytoplasmic retention of YAP. PPII activates Hippo signaling by accelerating acetylation of MOB1 through a direct binding interaction.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, these results confirm that acetylation of MOB1 mediates PPII-induced autophagosome accumulation in BC by promoting cytoplasmic retention of the YAP/TFEB coactivator complex. PPII is expected to be a drug candidate for the treatment of BC based on lysosomal biosynthesis.

Transcription Factor TCF3 Promotes Macrophage-Mediated Inflammation and MMP Secretion in Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm by Regulating miR-143-5p /CCL20

ABSTRACT

Damage to the abdominal aortic wall and the local inflammatory response are key factors resulting in abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) formation. During this process, macrophage polarization plays a key role. However, in AAA, the regulatory mechanism of macrophages is still unclear, and further research is needed. In this study, we found that the transcription factor TCF3 was expressed at low levels in AAA. We overexpressed TCF3 and found that TCF3 could inhibit MMP and inflammatory factor expression and promote M2 macrophage polarization, thereby inhibiting the progression of AAA. Knocking down TCF3 could promote M1 polarization and MMP and inflammatory factor expression. In addition, we found that TCF3 increased miR-143-5p expression through transcriptional activation of miR-143-5p , which further inhibited expression of the downstream chemokine CCL20 and promoted M2 macrophage polarization. Our research indicates that TCF3-mediated macrophage polarization plays a key regulatory role in AAA, complementing the role and mechanism of macrophages in the occurrence and development of AAA and providing a scientific basis for AAA treatment.

Association between the non-HDL-cholesterol to HDL- cholesterol ratio and abdominal aortic aneurysm from a Chinese screening program

BACKGROUND

Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) can result in high mortality upon rupture but are usually undiagnosed because of the absence of symptoms in the early stage. Ultrasound screening is regarded as an impactful way to prevent the AAA-related death but cannot be performed efficiently; therefore, a target population, especially in Asia, for this procedure is lacking. Additionally, although dyslipidaemia and atherosclerosis are associated with AAA. However, it remains undetermined whether the non-high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol ratio (NHHR) is associated with AAA. Therefore, this study was aimed at examining whether NHHR is associated with AAA.

METHOD

A total of 9559 participants who underwent AAA screening at Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital and through screening in two communities in Dongguan, from June 2019 to June 2021 joined in this screening program. The diagnosis of AAA was confirmed by the ultrasound examination of the abdominal aorta rather than any known or suspected AAA. Clinical and laboratory data of participants were collected. The participants were separated into a normal group and an AAA group according to the abdominal aortic status. To eliminate confounding factors, a propensity score matching (PSM) approach was utilized. The independent relationship between NHHR and AAA was assessed through the utilization of multivariable logistic regression analysis. In addition, internal consistency was evaluated through subgroup analysis, which controlled for significant risk factors.

RESULTS

Of all the participants, 219 (2.29%) participants were diagnosed with AAA. A significant elevation in NHHR was identified in the AAA group when contrasted with that in the normal group (P < 0.001). As demonstrated by the results of the multivariable logistic regression analysis, AAA was independently associated with NHHR before (odds ratio [OR], 1.440, P < 0.001) and after PSM (OR, 1.515, P < 0.001). Significant extension was observed in the areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUROCs) of NHHR compared to those of single lipid parameters before and after PSM. An accordant association between NHHR and AAA in different subgroups was demonstrated by subgroup analysis.

CONCLUSION

In the Chinese population, there is an independent association between NHHR and AAA. NHHR might be propitious to distinguish individuals with high risk of AAA.

Lipopolysaccharide promotes NLRP3 inflammasome activation by inhibiting TFEB-mediated autophagy in NRK-52E cells

The NLRP3 inflammasome is involved in many inflammatory diseases. Its activity must be strictly controlled to alleviate the inflammatory process. Autophagy plays a protective role in the negative regulation of NLRP3 inflammasome activation. However, the regulatory mechanism of autophagy controlling NLRP3 inflammasome activation remains to be further investigated. Here, we showed that in NRK-52E cells, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and ATP stimulation significantly decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, increased ROS production and mtDNA copy number in cytosol. Moreover, autophagic flux was blocked when challenged with LPS and ATP as evidenced by increased LC3 II and p62 expression, reduced TFEB and CTSD expression, and impaired lysosomal acid environment. Furthermore, TFEB deficiency increased cytosolic mtDNA and enhanced LPS and ATP induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation and proinflammatory cytokine expression. Taken together, these findings reveal that LPS and ATP stimulation promoted NLRP3 inflammasome activation through inhibiting TFEB-mediated autophagy in NRK-52E cells, and TFEB could be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of NLRP3 inflammasome-related kidney diseases.

Roles of interferon regulatory factor 4 in the AKI-CKD transition, glomerular diseases and kidney allograft rejection

Interferon regulatory factor 4 (IRF4) is expressed in immune cells and is a member of the interferon regulatory factor family. Recently, it has been found that IRF4 plays important roles in the acute kidney injury (AKI)-chronic kidney disease (CKD) transition, glomerular diseases and kidney allograft rejection. In particular, the relationship between IRF4 and the AKI-CKD transition has attracted widespread attention. Furthermore, it was also found that the deficiency of IRF4 hindered the transition from AKI to CKD through the suppression of macrophage-to-fibroblast conversion, inhibition of M1-M2 macrophage polarization, and reduction in neutrophil inward flow. Additionally, an examination of the crucial role of IRF4 in glomerular disease was conducted. It was reported that inhibiting IRF4 could alleviate the progression of glomerular disease, and potential physiopathology mechanisms associated with IRF4 were postulated. Lastly, IRF4 was found to have detrimental effects on the development of antibody-mediated rejection (ABMR) and T-cell-mediated rejection (TCMR).

Myeloid-derived suppressor cells promote the formation of abdominal aortic aneurysms through the IL-3-ICOSL-ICOS axis

Th17 cells are powerful inflammation promoters in the pathogenesis of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs). Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) can promote the differentiation of Th17 cells in chronic inflammatory autoimmune injury. Here, we aim to examine whether MDSCs regulate the differentiation of Th17 cells to participate in the development of AAA. We demonstrated an abnormal accumulation of MDSCs in AAA patients, which was positively associated with Th17 cells. We established angiotensin II-induced apolipoprotein E knockout mice and found the impaired immunosuppressive function of M-MDSCs. After systemic injection of anti-Gr-1 antibody in AAA mice to deplete circulating MDSCs, AAA formation and the differentiation of Th17 cells were abolished, and the overexpression of inducible T-cell costimulator (ICOS) on Th17 cells was reversed accordingly. Regulating the expression of ICOS ligand (ICOSL) on MDSCs affects the differentiation of Th17 cells. The adoptive transfer of ICOSLlowMDSCs in AAA mice inhibited the differentiation of Th17 cells and the development of AAA. Meanwhile, rIL-3 promoted the survival and immunosuppressive dysfunction of MDSCs, upregulated ICOSL expression on MDSCs by inhibiting activation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, and regulated MDSCs to promote the differentiation of Th17 cells via the ICOSL-ICOS axis. An increase in serum IL-3, ICOSL+MDSCs, and ICOS+Th17 cells was detected in AAA patients, and IL-3 levels were positively correlated with the proportion of ICOSL+MDSC cells. In conclusion, we uncovered a pivotal role of MDSCs in promoting the differentiation of Th17 cells through the IL-3-ICOSL-ICOS axis during AAA, providing an important theoretical basis for understanding the pathogenesis of AAA.

DNAzyme Nanoconstruct-Integrated Autonomously-Adaptive Coatings Enhance Titanium-Implant Osteointegration by Cooperative Angiogenesis and Vessel Remodeling

Orthopedic implants have a high failure rate due to insufficient interfacial osseointegration, especially under osteoporotic conditions. Type H vessels are CD31+EMCN+ capillaries with crucial roles in mediating new bone formation, but their abundance in osteoporotic fracture site is highly limited. Herein, we report a nanoengineered composite coating to improve the in situ osseointegration of a Ti implant for osteoporotic fracture repair, which is realized through inhibiting the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) in endothelial cells (ECs) to stimulate type H vessel formation. Autonomously catalytic DNAzyme-ZnO nanoflowers (DNFzns) were prepared through rolling circle amplification (RCA) of STING mRNA-degrading DNAzymes, which were then integrated on the Ti surface and further sequentially complexed with thioketal-bridged polydopamine and naringenin (Ti/DNFzn/PDA-Nar). ECs and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can be recruited to the implant surface by galvanotaxis, accounting for the negative charges of DNFzn/PDA-Nar, subsequently released Nar under reactive oxygen species (ROS) stimulation to upregulate endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) in recruited ECs, leading to enhanced local angiogenesis. Meanwhile, the coordinately released DNFzns would abolish STING expression in ECs to transform the newly formed vessels into Type H vessels, thus substantially promoting the osseointegration of Ti implants. This study provides application prospects for improving implant osteointegration for osteoporotic fracture treatment.

Naringenin facilitates M2 macrophage polarization after myocardial ischemia-reperfusion by promoting nuclear translocation of transcription factor EB and inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway

Myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI) remains an unsolved puzzle in medical circles. Naringenin (NAR) is a flavonoid with cardioprotective potential. The purpose of this article was to discuss the protective mechanism of NAR in MIRI by regulating macrophage polarization. The MIRI mouse model was established and perfused with NAR before surgery. In the in vitro experiment, macrophages RAW264.7 were treated with lipopolysaccharide to induce M1 polarization after pretreatment with NAR. Rescue experiments were carried out to validate the functions of transcription factor EB (TFEB), the NLR pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, and autophagy in macrophage polarization. NAR reduced histopathological injury and infarction of myocardial tissues in MIRI mice, inhibited M1 polarization and promoted M2 polarization of macrophages, diminished levels of pro-inflammatory factors, and augmented levels of anti-inflammatory factors. NAR facilitated TFEB nuclear translocation and inhibited the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway. Silencing TFEB or Nigericin partly nullified the effect of NAR on macrophage polarization. NAR increased autophagosome formation, autophagy flux, and autophagy level. Autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine partly invalidated the inhibition of NAR on the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway. In animal experiments, NAR protected MIRI mice through the TFEB-autophagy-NLRP3 inflammasome pathway. Collectively, NAR inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome activation and facilitated M2 macrophage polarization by stimulating TFEB nuclear translocation, thus protecting against MIRI.

Pharmacological Inhibition of Gasdermin D Suppresses Angiotensin II-Induced Experimental Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

BACKGROUND

Gasdermin D, a molecule downstream of the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor family pyrin domain containing inflammasome, forms the membrane pore for the secretion of interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18, and also mediates pyroptosis. This study was to explore the influence of treatment with disulfiram, a small molecule inhibitor to gasdermin D, on the formation and progression of experimental abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA).

METHODS

AAAs were induced in 10-week-old male apolipoprotein E deficient mice by subcutaneous infusion of angiotensin II (1000 ng/min/kg body weight) for 28 days via osmotic minipumps. Three days prior to angiotensin II infusion, disulfiram (50 mg/kg) or an equal volume of saline as the vehicle control was administered daily via oral gavage. The influence on experimental AAAs was analyzed by serial measurements of aortic diameters via ultrasonography, grading AAA severity and histopathology at sacrifice. Serum IL-1β and IL-18 levels, systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, and triglyceride were also measured. Additional experiments assayed the influences on the cell viability and IL-1β secretion of in vitro activated macrophages.

RESULTS

Disulfiram significantly reduced the enlargement, incidence, and severity of angiotensin II-induced experimental AAAs with attenuation of medial elastin breaks, mural macrophage accumulation, and systolic blood pressure. The AAA suppression was also associated with reduced systemic levels of IL-1β but not IL-18. However, disulfiram treatment had no impact on body weight gain and lipid levels in aneurysmal mice. Additionally, disulfiram treatment also markedly reduced the secretion of IL-1β from activated macrophages with a limited effect on cell viability in vitro.

CONCLUSIONS

Gasdermin D inhibition by disulfiram attenuated angiotensin II-induced experimental AAAs with reduced systemic IL-1β levels and in vitro activated macrophage IL-1β secretion. Our study suggests that pharmacological gasdermin D inhibition may have translational potential for limiting clinical AAA progression.

Worm Generator: A System for High-Throughput in Vivo Screening

Large-scale screening of molecules in organisms requires high-throughput and cost-effective evaluating tools during preclinical development. Here, a novel in vivo screening strategy combining hierarchically structured biohybrid triboelectric nanogenerators (HB-TENGs) arrays with computational bioinformatics analysis for high-throughput pharmacological evaluation using Caenorhabditis elegans is described. Unlike the traditional methods for behavioral monitoring of the animals, which are laborious and costly, HB-TENGs with micropillars are designed to efficiently convert animals' behaviors into friction deformation and result in a contact-separation motion between two triboelectric layers to generate electrical outputs. The triboelectric signals are recorded and extracted to various bioinformation for each screened compound. Moreover, the information-rich electrical readouts are successfully demonstrated to be sufficient to predict a drug's identity by multiple-Gaussian-kernels-based machine learning methods. This proposed strategy can be readily applied to various fields and is especially useful in in vivo explorations to accelerate the identification of novel therapeutics.

Bromelain Ameliorates Atherosclerosis by Activating the TFEB-Mediated Autophagy and Antioxidant Pathways

Bromelain, a cysteine protease found in pineapple, has beneficial effects in the treatment of inflammatory diseases; however, its effects in cardiovascular pathophysiology are not fully understood. We investigated the effect of bromelain on atherosclerosis and its regulatory mechanisms in hyperlipidemia and atheroprone apolipoprotein E-null (apoe-/-) mice. Bromelain was orally administered to 16-week-old male apoe-/- mice for four weeks. Daily bromelain administration decreased hyperlipidemia and aortic inflammation, leading to atherosclerosis retardation in apoe-/- mice. Moreover, hepatic lipid accumulation was decreased by the promotion of cholesteryl ester hydrolysis and autophagy through the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)/transcription factor EB (TFEB)-mediated upregulation of autophagy- and antioxidant-related proteins. Moreover, bromelain decreased oxidative stress by increasing the antioxidant capacity and protein expression of antioxidant proteins while downregulating the protein expression of NADPH oxidases and decreasing the production of reactive oxygen species. Therefore, AMPK/TFEB signaling may be crucial in bromelain-mediated anti-hyperlipidemia, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects, effecting the amelioration of atherosclerosis.

[Naringenin inhibits thoracic aortic aneurysm formation in mice with Marfan syndrome]

OBJECTIVE

To identify whether naringenin plays a protective role during thoracic aneurysm formation in Marfan syndrome.

METHODS

To validate the effect of naringenin, Fbn1^C1039G/+ mice, the mouse model of Marfan syndrome, were fed with naringenin, and the disease progress was evaluated. The molecular mechanism of naringenin was further investigated via in vitro studies, such as bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET), atomic force microscope and radioligand receptor binding assay.

RESULTS

Six-week-old Fbn1^C1039G/+ mice were fed with naringenin for 20 weeks. Compared with the control group, naringenin significantly suppressed the aortic expansion [Fbn1^C1039G/+ vs. Fbn1^C1039G/++naringenin: (2.49±0.47) mm, n=18 vs. (1.87±0.19) mm, n=22, P < 0.05], the degradation of elastin, and the expression and activity of matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) and MMP9 in the ascending aorta of Fbn1^C1039G/+ mice. Besides, treatment with naringenin for 6 weeks also attenuated the disease progress among the 20-week-old Fbn1^C1039G/+ mice with established thoracic aortic aneurysms [Fbn1^C1039G/+ vs. Fbn1^C1039G/++naringenin: (2.24±0.23) mm, n=8 vs. (1.90±0.17) mm, n=8, P < 0.05]. To understand the underlying molecular mechanisms, we examined the effects of naringenin on angiotensin Ⅱ type 1 receptor (AT1) signaling and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling respectively, which were the dominant signaling pathways contributing to aortopathy in Marfan syndrome as previously reported. The results showed that naringenin decreased angiotensin Ⅱ (Ang Ⅱ)-induced phosphorylation of protein kinase C (PKC) and extracellular regulating kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) in HEK293A cell overexpressing AT1 receptor. Moreover, naringenin inhibited Ang Ⅱ-induced calcium mobilization and uclear factor of activated T-cells (NFAT) signaling. The internalization of AT1 receptor and its binding to β-arrestin-2 with Ang Ⅱ induction were also suppressed by naringenin. As evidenced by atomic force microscope and radioligand receptor binding assay, naringenin inhibited Ang Ⅱ binding to AT1 receptor. In terms of TGF-β signaling, we found that feeding the mice with naringenin decreased the phosphorylation of Smad2 and ERK1/2 as well as the expression of TGF-β downstream genes. Besides, the serum level of TGF-β was also decreased by naringenin in the Fbn1^C1039G/+ mice. Furthermore, we detected the effect of naringenin on platelet, a rich source of TGF-β, both in vivo and in vitro. And we found that naringenin markedly decreased the TGF-β level by inhibiting the activation of platelet.

CONCLUSION

Our study showed that naringenin has a protective effect on thoracic aortic aneurysm formation in Marfan syndrome by suppressing both AT1 and TGF-β signaling.

Naringenin restores colistin activation against colistin-resistant gram-negative bacteria in vitro and in vivo

Colistin is used as the “last line of defense” against multidrug-resistant (MDR) Gram-negative bacteria (GNB). However, improper use of colistin may further lead to an increasing number of colistin-resistant (Col-R) strains worldwide, which greatly limits antibiotic treatment options. In this study, we investigated the antibacterial and antibiofilm activities of naringenin (NG) combined with colistin against Col-R GNB in vitro and in vivo. The checkerboard method and time-kill test showed that NG combined with colistin has better antibacterial activity (FICI &lt; 0.5) compared with NG and colistin alone. Biofilm formation inhibition tests demonstrated that combining the two drugs could inhibit biofilm formation; scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed that the combination of the two significantly reduces the number of cells in the biofilm compared with the drug alone. The in vivo experiment showed that the combination of NG and colistin can improve the survival rate of the Galleria mellonella (G. mellonella) and reduce the microbial load in the mouse thigh infection model. Mechanistically, the combination of NG and colistin synergistically enhances the antibacterial activity and changes the permeability of the bacterial outer membrane. More importantly, cytotoxicity tests showed no cell cytotoxicity of NG in combination with colistin. In conclusion, our data revealed that NG combined with colistin exhibited good synergistic effects in vivo and in vitro, thus providing a new therapeutic option for clinical Col-R GNB infections.