Macrophage achieves self-protection against oxidative stress-induced ageing through the Mst-Nrf2 axis

Aberrant Reduction of Short-Chain Fatty Acid (SCFA) Receptor GPR41 and Transporter MCT4 in Prion-Infected Rodent and Cell Models

Mounting evidence shows that short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), derived mainly from intestinal bacteria, play a significant role in maintaining the homeostasis of the immune system and the central nervous system (CNS). SCFAs, directly or indirectly mediated by SCFA receptors and transporters in neuronal cells, participate in the pathophysiological processes of various neurodegenerative diseases, but their roles in prion diseases are rarely addressed. Here, the abnormal changes in SCFA receptors and transporters in a prion-infected cell line and in the brains of several prion-scrapie-infected rodent models were evaluated by various methods. Markedly decreased GPR41 and MCT4 levels were observed in the brains of scrapie-infected rodents at the terminal stage and in the prion-infected cell line, whereas GPR43 and MCT1 levels did not change significantly. Morphological assays identified close colocalization of both GPR41 and MCT4 with NeuN-positive cells, while only a low amount was observed with Iba1-positive and GFAP-positive cells in the brains of prion-infected mice. Reduction of HO-1, an antioxidative agent in Nrf2 signaling, was observed in the brains of both prion-infected rodent models and the prion-infected cell line. Reductions of GPR41 and MCT4 in the prion-infected cell line were reversible after the removal of prion replication and stimulation with SCFA (sodium propionate) or a GPR41 agonist, accompanied by recovering the HO-1 level and improving cell viability. Our data presented here demonstrate a correlation between alterations in GPR41/MCT4 expression and the shifts in cellular composition that accompany prion pathogenesis. Furthermore, we explore the potential association between SCFA signaling and prion neurotoxicity, identifying it as a crucial area for future research endeavors.

Highly Emissive Platinum(II) Metallacage in the Near-Infrared Region for Synergistic Chemo-Photodynamic Therapy

Highly emissive metallacages that generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) are important to synergistic cancer therapy, but it is still challenging to balance the emission and phototheranostic properties. Herein, a metallacage of DTPABT-Mc is prepared. It is observed that emission in the near-infrared region from 600 to 1000 nm with a high photoluminescence quantum yield value of 7.92% in solids is recorded for DTPABT-Mc. In addition, the ability to produce both type I and type II ROS under light irradiation is also observed, leading to potential application in photodynamic therapy (PDT) and chemotherapy. After that, 4T1@DTPABT-Mc-NPs, covering DTPABT-Mc nanoparticles with 4T1 cell membranes, are prepared to enhance their tumor-targeting ability. This finally results in effective therapeutic performance in vivo, effectively inhibiting tumor growth. These results suggest that DTPABT-Mc-NPs exhibit excellent synergistic therapeutic effects by combining PDT and chemotherapy, providing new ideas to design agents for diagnosis and therapy in the future.

Reactive oxygen species in tendon injury and repair

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are chemical moieties that in physiological concentrations serve as fast-acting signaling molecules important for cellular homeostasis. However, their excess either due to overproduction or inability of the antioxidant system to inactivate them results in oxidative stress, contributing to cellular dysfunction and tissue damage. In tendons, which are hypovascular, hypocellular, and composed predominantly of extracellular matrix (ECM), particularly collagen I, ROS likely play a dual role: regulating cellular processes such as inflammation, proliferation, and ECM remodeling under physiological conditions, while contributing to tendinopathy and impaired healing when dysregulated. This review explores the sources of ROS in tendons, including NADPH oxidases and mitochondria, and their role in key processes such as tissue adaptation to mechanical load and injury repair, also in systemic conditions such as diabetes. In addition, we integrate the emerging perspective that calcium signaling-mediated by mechanically activated ion channels-plays a central role in tendon mechanotransduction under daily mechanical loads. We propose that mechanical overuse (overload) may lead to hyperactivation of calcium channels, resulting in chronically elevated intracellular calcium levels that amplify ROS production and oxidative stress. Although direct evidence linking calcium channel hyperactivity, intracellular calcium dysregulation, and ROS generation under overload conditions is currently circumstantial, this review aims to highlight these connections and identify them as critical avenues for future research. By framing ROS within the context of both adaptive and maladaptive responses to mechanical load, this review provides a comprehensive synthesis of redox biology in tendon injury and repair, paving the way for future work, including development of therapeutic strategies targeting ROS and calcium signaling to enhance tendon recovery and resilience.

TRIM15 drives chondrocyte senescence and osteoarthritis progression

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent joint disease characterized by pain, disability, and loss of physical function, posing a challenge to public health. However, molecular mechanisms of OA pathogenesis have not been fully described. We report that tripartite motif containing 15 (TRIM15) is a regulator in chondrocyte senescence and OA. Our study revealed heightened expression of TRIM15 in chondrocytes of senescent cartilage from patients with OA and in aged wild-type mice. Using gain- and loss-of-function studies, we found that TRIM15 facilitated human chondrocyte senescence. Conditional deletion of Trim15 in mouse chondrocytes severely impaired skeletal growth, partially because of impaired embryonic chondrocyte senescence. Compared with conditionally knocked out Col2a1-CreERT2/Trim15flox/flox mice, Trim15flox/flox control mice exhibited accelerated OA phenotypes, increased senescence markers, and senescence-associated secretory phenotype during aging. Mechanistically, TRIM15 bound with yes-associated protein (YAP) and mediated K48-linked YAP ubiquitination at K254, which interrupted the interaction between YAP and angiomotin, leading to enhanced YAP nuclear translocation. Dysregulation of TRIM15-YAP and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) signaling promoted OA progression in both the surgery-induced and natural aging-induced mouse OA model. Intra-articular injection of adeno-associated virus 5 (AAV5)-Trim15 shRNA decelerated OA progression in mice. In particular, YAP and TAZ protein amounts were increased in chondrocytes of patients with OA. Our preclinical results demonstrated that the AAV5-TRIM15 shRNA treatment protected human OA explants against degeneration through inhibiting chondrocyte senescence. Together, our findings underscore the potential of targeting TRIM15 in reshaping the aging cartilage microenvironment and suggest a promising therapeutic avenue for OA.

Reduction reactions dominate the interactions between Mg alloys and cells: Understanding the mechanisms

Magnesium (Mg) alloys are popular biodegradable metals studied for orthopedic and cardiovascular applications, mainly because Mg ions are essential trace elements known to promote angiogenesis and osteogenesis. However, Mg corrosion consists of oxidation and reduction reactions that produce by-products, such as hydrogen gas, reactive oxygen species, and hydroxides. It is still unclear how all these by-products and Mg ions concomitantly alter the microenvironment and cell behaviors spatially and temporally. This study shows that Mg corrosion can enhance cell proliferation by reducing intracellular ROS. However, Mg cannot decrease ROS and promote cell proliferation in simulated inflammatory conditions, meaning the microenvironment is critical. Furthermore, cells may respond to Mg ions differently in chronic or acute alkaline pH or oxidative stress. Depending on the corrosion rate, Mg modulates HIF1α and many signaling pathways like PI3K/AKT/mTOR, mitophagy, cell cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation. Therefore, this study provides a fundamental insight into the importance of reduction reactions in Mg alloys.

Prevention of motor relapses and associated trigeminal pain in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis by reducing neuroinflammation with a purple corn extract enriched in anthocyanins

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the leading cause of disability in young adults, with about 2.5-3 million cases currently diagnosed. Pain is a common comorbid symptom of MS, and develops independently from motor impairments. Currently utilized drugs bear severe side effects; thus, new therapeutic strategies are needed, and nutraceutical supplements represent innovative and safe opportunities. We have selected a variety of anthocyanin-enriched purple corn, from which a water-soluble extract (Red extract) has been obtained and administered to male rats exposed to experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Animals developed relapsing-remitting motor symptoms, accompanied by early onset trigeminal allodynia. The preventive administration of Red extract facilitated the remission of motor symptoms, prevented the development of relapses, and delayed and reduced the development of EAE-associated trigeminal pain. An overall inhibition of neuroinflammation, blunted microgliosis and astrogliosis, activation of autophagy and reduced immune cell infiltration in the brainstem, cervical and lumbar spinal cord were observed. Yellow corn extract, lacking anthocyanins, had no behavioral effects, despite a limited anti-inflammatory action. Therapeutic Red extract administration did not affect EAE motor symptoms, only partially reduced the development of trigeminal pain but maintained its ability to reduce neuroinflammation and glial cell activation and to promote autophagy. Overall, our data suggest that a nutraceutical supplement from anthocyanin-enriched purple corn represents an interesting option to limit the development of motor relapses and the chronicization of multiple sclerosis-associated pain, through the mitigation of neuroinflammation, of the infiltration of immune cells and the promotion of autophagy.

Plasma-derived extracellular vesicles prime alveolar macrophages for autophagy and ferroptosis in sepsis-induced acute lung injury

Sepsis-induced acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a severe complication of sepsis and the leading cause of mortality. Although the role of alveolar macrophages (AMs) in stabilizing pulmonary homeostasis is well established, the effects of circulating extracellular vesicles (EVs) on AMs remain largely unknown. In this study, an investigation was conducted to map the miRNA and protein expression profiles of EVs derived from septic plasma. Notably, EV-based panels (miR-122-5p, miR-125b-5p, miR-223-3p, OLFM4, and LCN2) have been found to be associated with the severity or prognosis of sepsis, with promising AUC values. Moreover, the levels of LCN2, miR-122-5p, and miR-223-3p were identified as independent predictors of septic ARDS. The in vitro coculture results revealed that the effects of LPS-EVs from the plasma of sepsis-induced acute lung injury (ALI), which carry pro-inflammatory EVs, were partly mediated by miR-223-3p, as evidenced by the promotion of inflammation, autophagy and ferroptosis in AMs. Mechanistically, the upregulation of miR-223-3p in LPS-EVs triggers autophagy and ferroptosis in AMs by activating Hippo signaling via the targeting of MEF2C. In vivo, the inhibition of miR-223-3p effectively mitigated LPS-EV-induced inflammation and AM death in the lungs, as well as histological lesions. Overall, miR-223-3p in LPS-EVs contributes to sepsis-induced ALI by priming AMs for autophagy and ferroptosis through the MEF2C/Hippo signaling pathway. These findings suggest a novel mechanism of plasma-AM interaction in sepsis-induced ALI, offering a plausible strategy for assessing septic progression and treating lung injury.

Regulation of Hippo-YAP1/TAZ pathway in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) has become the most prevalent chronic liver disease worldwide, but effective treatments are still lacking. Metabolic disorders such as iron overload, glycolysis, insulin resistance, lipid dysregulation, and glutaminolysis are found to induce liver senescence and ferroptosis, which are hot topics in the research of MASLD. Recent studies have shown that Hippo-YAP1/TAZ pathway is involved in the regulations of metabolism disorders, senescence, ferroptosis, inflammation, and fibrosis in MASLD, but their complex connections and contrast roles are also reported. In addition, therapeutics based on the Hippo-YAP1/TAZ pathway hold promising for MASLD treatment. In this review, we highlight the regulation and molecular mechanism of the Hippo-YAP1/TAZ pathway in MASLD and summarize potential therapeutic strategies for MASLD by regulating Hippo-YAP1/TAZ pathway.

Identification of biomarkers associated with ferroptosis in macrophages infected with Mycobacterium abscessus using bioinformatic tools

Mycobacterium abscessus is a rapidly growing nontuberculous mycobacterium that causes severe pulmonary infections. Recent studies indicate that ferroptosis may play a critical role in the pathogenesis of M. abscessus pulmonary disease. We obtained gene expression microarray data from the Gene Expression Omnibus database, focusing on THP-1-derived macrophages infected with M. abscessus and uninfected controls. Differentially expressed genes related to ferroptosis were identified through weighted gene co-expression network analysis and the "limma" package, followed by gene set variation analysis and gene set enrichment analysis for enrichment assessment. To explore regulatory network relationships among hub genes, we constructed RBP-mRNA, ceRNA, and TF-mRNA networks. Additionally, a protein-protein interaction network was built, and functional enrichment analyses were conducted for the hub genes. The diagnostic value of these genes was assessed using receiver operating characteristic curves. Six differentially expressed genes associated with ferroptosis were identified in M. abscessus infection. The receiver operating characteristic curves demonstrated that these genes had excellent predictive value for the infection. Functional enrichment analysis showed that these genes were involved in immune responses, inflammation, cellular metabolism, cell death, and apoptosis. Pathway enrichment analysis revealed significant enrichment in pathways related to apoptosis, inflammation, and hypoxia. The RBP-mRNA network highlighted significant interactions between hub genes and key RNA-binding proteins, while the ceRNA network predicted that miRNAs and lncRNAs regulate ferroptosis-related genes NACC2 and ITPKB. Furthermore, interactions between the hub gene HSD3B7 and transcription factors LMNB1 and ASCL1 may promote ferroptosis in macrophages by influencing iron metabolism and reactive oxygen species production, contributing to the M. abscessus infection process. Our findings identified biomarkers linked to ferroptosis in M. abscessus infection, providing new insights into its pathogenic mechanisms and potential therapeutic strategies.

Anti-inflammatory effects of a methanol extract from Montanoa grandiflora DC. (Asteraceae) leaves on in vitro and in vivo models

BACKGROUND

Montanoa grandiflora, a plant species native from Mexico to Central America, locally known as "Teresita" in Yucatán, México, is used to alleviate anxiety, rheumatism, and stomach issues. This study aims to investigate the anti-inflammatory properties of the methanol extract of Montanoa grandiflora leaves (MMG) in experimental models of inflammation.

METHODS

Gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy was used to characterize the MMG; cytotoxicity was assessed by MTT assay on murine macrophages and hemolysis assay. The in vitro anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated on LPS-stimulated murine macrophages by measuring of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, NO and H2O2 release. The in vivo anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated using carrageenan-induced mouse paw edema, 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate induced-ear edema, and 1-fluoro-2,4-dinitrobenzene induced-delayed-type hypersensitivity. In addition, the serum levels of prostaglandins and leukotrienes were assessed.

RESULTS

The main compounds found in MMG were terpenes (i.e., β-caryophyllene, (-)-α-cubebene, alloaromadendrene, ( +)-δ-cadinene, β-eudesmol), alkaloid (( ±)-nor-β-hydrastine), cyclic polyol (quinic acid), carbohydrates and their derivatives, and fatty acids (octadecatrienoic acid and octadecanoic acid). MMG did not exhibit cytotoxic or hemolytic activity. However, it demonstrated in vitro anti-inflammatory effects by increasing the production of IL-10, decreasing the levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, NO and H2O2. MMG significantly reduced carrageenan-induced paw edema, TPA-induced ear edema, and DNFB-induced delayed-type hypersensitivity in mice with effects comparable to those of standard drugs, as well as serum levels of prostaglandins and leukotrienes.

CONCLUSION

The anti-inflammatory activity of MMG is associated with increased IL-10 levels and inhibiting inflammatory cell migration mechanisms, without causing cytotoxic or hemolytic damage in both in vitro and in vivo assays.

Analysis of ROMO1 Expression Levels and Its Oncogenic Role in Gastrointestinal Tract Cancers

Gastrointestinal tract cancers account for approximately one-third of cancer-related deaths. Early diagnosis and effective treatment are the most important ways to prevent cancer-related morbidity and mortality. ROMO1 has been shown to play an important role in many types of cancer. However, the biological function of ROMO1 is still poorly understood in gastrointestinal system cancers. The aim of this study is to reveal the expression change and oncogenic role of ROMO in gastrointestinal system cancers. Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA), UALCAN, TIMER, GeneMANIA, TISIDB, and STRING were applied to assess the biological function of ROMO1 in gastrointestinal cancers (colon adenocarcinoma (COAD), esophageal carcinoma (ESCA), liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC), pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD), and stomach adenocarcinoma (STAD)). ROMO1 is significantly increased in COAD, ESCA, LUHC, and PAAD, and the overexpression of ROMO1 is associated with clinicopathological features. In addition, ROMO1 has been found to be closely associated with tumor-infiltrating immune cells in gastrointestinal cancers. ROMO1 is closely related to the inner mitochondrial membrane proteins (TIMM) family. The study revealed that ROMO1 is of significant clinical importance for gastrointestinal cancers and may have potential clinical utility in treatment and prognosis. Functional tests on cell lines derived from these particular gastrointestinal cancers can also be performed in vitro to evaluate the impact of the ROMO1 gene and other factors, like potential drugs, on the expression of these genes and the development and progression of the cancer.

Metabolism and immune responses of striped hamsters to ectoparasite challenges: insights from transcriptomic analysis

Introduction

The striped hamster, often parasitized by ectoparasites in nature, is an ideal model for studying host-ectoparasite molecular interactions. Investigating the response to ectoparasites under laboratory conditions helps elucidate the mechanism of host adaptations to ectoparasite pressure.

Methods

Using transcriptome sequencing, we analyzed gene expression in striped hamsters after short-term (3 days) and long-term (28 days) flea (Xenopsylla cheopis) parasitism. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified and subjected to Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses. Hub genes were pinpointed using protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis and the MCODE in Cytoscape. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) was used to further clarify the functional pathways of these hub genes. Validation of DEGs was performed via RT-qPCR. Additionally, the concentrations of reactive oxygen species (ROS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and catalase (CAT) were determined using specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) detection kits for hamsters.

Results

GO analysis revealed that during early parasitism, hosts primarily responded to the ectoparasites by adjusting the expression of genes related to metabolic functions. As parasitism persisted, the immune response became prominent, activating various immune pathways against ectoparasites. KEGG analysis confirmed the ongoing roles of metabolism and immunity. Notably, the chemical carcinogenesis - reactive oxygen species pathway was upregulated during flea parasitism, with downregulation of hub genes ATP5MC1 and ATP5MC2, highlighting the importance of mitochondrial function in oxidative stress. ELISA findings revealed that on day 3, flea parasitism groups showed elevated ROS expression and reduced SOD and CAT levels compared to the control group. By day 28, only SOD expression showed a significant decrease in both parasitism groups.

Conclusion

This study uncovered the dynamic changes in metabolism and immune responses of striped hamsters parasitized by Xenopsylla cheopis. Hosts adjust their physiological and immune states to optimize survival strategies during different ectoparasite stages, enhancing our understanding of host-ectoparasite interactions. This also paves the way for further research into how hosts regulate complex biological processes in response to ectoparasite challenges.

MST1, a novel therapeutic target for Alzheimer's disease, regulates mitochondrial homeostasis by mediating mitochondrial DNA transcription and the PI3K-Akt-ROS pathway

BACKGROUND

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a prevalent irreversible neurodegenerative condition marked by gradual cognitive deterioration and neuronal loss. The mammalian Ste20-like kinase (MST1)-Hippo pathway is pivotal in regulating cell apoptosis, immune response, mitochondrial function, and oxidative stress. However, the association between MST1 and mitochondrial function in AD remains unknown. Therefore, this study investigates the effect of MST1 on neuronal damage and cognitive impairment by regulating mitochondrial homeostasis in AD.

METHODS

In this study, 4- and 7-month-old 5xFAD mice were selected to simulate the early and middle stages of AD, respectively; age-matched wild-type mice served as controls for comparative analysis. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) was injected into the hippocampus of mice. Four weeks post-injection, cognitive function, neuronal damage indicators, and mitochondrial morphology, dynamics, oxidative stress, ATP, and apoptosis-related indicators were evaluated. Additionally, RNA-sequencing was performed on the hippocampal tissue of 5xFAD mice and MST1-knockdown 5xFAD mice. Subsequently, Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were performed on differentially expressed genes to elucidate the potential mechanism of MST1. In vitro studies were performed to investigate the effects of MST1 on SH-SY5Y model cell viability and mitochondrial function and validate the potential underlying molecular mechanisms.

RESULTS

MST1 overexpression accelerated neuronal degeneration and cognitive deficits in vivo while promoting oxidative stress and mitochondrial damage. Similarly, in vitro, MST1 overexpression facilitated apoptosis and mitochondrial dysfunction. MST1 knockdown and chemical inactivation reduced cognitive decline, mitochondrial dysfunction, and neuronal degeneration. Mechanistically, MST1 regulated the transcription of mitochondrial genes, including MT-ND4L, MT-ATP6, and MT-CO2, by binding to PGC1α. Moreover, MST1 influenced cellular oxidative stress through the PI3K-Akt-ROS pathway, ultimately disrupting mitochondrial homeostasis and mediating cell damage.

CONCLUSIONS

Cumulatively, these results suggest that MST1 primarily regulates mitochondrial DNA transcription levels by interacting with PGC1α and modulates cellular oxidative stress through the PI3K-Akt-ROS pathway, disrupting mitochondrial homeostasis. This discovery can be exploited to potentially enhance mitochondrial energy metabolism pathways by targeting MST1, offering novel potential therapeutic targets for treating AD.

MST2 Acts via AKT Activity to Promote Neurite Outgrowth and Functional Recovery after Spinal Cord Injury in Mice

Spinal cord injury (SCI) constitutes a significant clinical challenge, and there is extensive research focused on identifying molecular activities that can facilitate the repair of spinal cord injuries. Mammalian sterile 20-like kinase 2 (MST2), a core component of the Hippo signaling pathway, plays a key role in apoptosis and cell growth. However, its role in neurite outgrowth after spinal cord injury remains unknown. Through comprehensive in vitro and in vivo experiments, we demonstrated that MST2, predominantly expressed in neurons, actively participated in the natural development of the CNS. Post-SCI, MST2 expression significantly increased, indicating its activation and potential role in the early stages of neural recovery. Detailed analyses showed that MST2 knockdown impaired neurite outgrowth and motor function recovery, whereas MST2 overexpression led to the opposite effects, underscoring MST2's neuroprotective role in enhancing neural repair. Further, we elucidated the mechanism underlying MST2's action, revealing its interaction with AKT and positive regulation of AKT activity, a well-established promoter of neurite outgrowth. Notably, MST2's promotion of neurite outgrowth and motor functional recovery was diminished by AKT inhibitors, highlighting the dependency of MST2's neuroprotective effects on AKT signaling. In conclusion, our findings affirmed MST2's pivotal role in fostering neuronal neurite outgrowth and facilitating functional recovery after SCI, mediated through its positive modulation of AKT activity. In conclusion, our findings confirmed MST2's crucial role in neural protection, promoting neurite outgrowth and functional recovery after SCI through positive AKT activity modulation. These results position MST2 as a potential therapeutic target for SCI, offering new insights into strategies for enhancing neuroregeneration and functional restoration.

Exercise-induced Nrf2 activation increases antioxidant defenses in skeletal muscles

Following the discovery that exercise increases the production of reactive oxygen species in contracting skeletal muscles, evidence quickly emerged that endurance exercise training increases the abundance of key antioxidant enzymes in the trained muscles. Since these early observations, knowledge about the impact that regular exercise has on skeletal muscle antioxidant capacity has increased significantly. Importantly, in recent years, our understanding of the cell signaling pathways responsible for this exercise-induced increase in antioxidant enzymes has expanded exponentially. Therefore, the goals of this review are: 1) summarize our knowledge about the influence that exercise training has on the abundance of key antioxidant enzymes in skeletal muscles; and 2) to provide a state-of-the-art review of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2) signaling pathway that is responsible for many of the exercise-induced changes in muscle antioxidant capacity. We begin with a discussion of the sources of reactive oxygen species in contracting muscles and then examine the exercise-induced changes in the antioxidant enzymes that eliminate both superoxide radicals and hydrogen peroxide in muscle fibers. We conclude with a discussion of the advances in our understanding of the exercise-induced control of the Nrf2 signaling pathway that is responsible for the expression of numerous antioxidant proteins. In hopes of stimulating future research, we also identify gaps in our knowledge about the signaling pathways responsible for the exercise-induced increases in muscle antioxidant enzymes.

Targeting Myeloperoxidase to Reduce Neuroinflammation in X-Linked Dystonia Parkinsonism

AIMS

Although the genetic locus of X-linked dystonia parkinsonism (XDP), a neurodegenerative disease endemic in the Philippines, is well-characterized, the exact mechanisms leading to neuronal loss are not yet fully understood. Recently, we demonstrated an increase in myeloperoxidase (MPO) levels in XDP postmortem prefrontal cortex (PFC), suggesting a role for inflammation in XDP pathogenesis. Therefore, we hypothesized that inhibiting MPO could provide a therapeutic strategy for XDP.

METHODS

MPO activity was measured by using an MPO-activatable fluorescent agent (MAFA) in human postmortem PFC. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and MPO activity were measured in XDP-derived fibroblasts and SH-SY5Y cells following MPO inhibition.

RESULTS

MPO activity was significantly increased in XDP PFC. Additionally, treatment of cell lines with postmortem XDP PFC resulted in a significant increase in ROS levels. To determine whether increases in MPO activity caused increases in ROS, MPO content was immunodepleted from XDP PFC, which resulted in a significant decrease in ROS in SH-SY5Y cells. Consistently, the treatment with verdiperstat, a potent and selective MPO inhibitor, significantly decreased ROS in both XDP-derived fibroblasts and XDP PFC-treated SH-SY5Y cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Collectively, our results suggest that MPO inhibition mitigates oxidative stress and may provide a novel therapeutic strategy for XDP treatment.

Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2 Related Factor 2 and Mitochondria Form a Mutually Regulating Circuit in the Prevention and Treatment of Metabolic Syndrome

Significance: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) has become a major global public health problem and there is an urgent need to elucidate its pathogenesis and find more effective targets and modalities for intervention. Recent Advances: Oxidative stress and inflammation are two of the major causes of MetS-related symptoms such as insulin resistance and obesity. Nuclear factor erythroid 2 related factor 2 (Nrf2) is one of the important systems responding to oxidative stress and inflammation. As cells undergo stress, cysteines within Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) are oxidized or electrophilically modified, allowing Nrf2 to escape ubiquitination and be translocated from the cytoplasm to the nucleus, facilitating the initiation of the antioxidant transcriptional program. Meanwhile, a growing body of evidence points out a specific modulation of mitochondrial homeostasis by Nrf2. After nuclear translocation, Nrf2 activates downstream genes involved in various aspects of mitochondrial homeostasis, including mitochondrial biogenesis and dynamics, mitophagy, aerobic respiration, and energy metabolism. In turn, mitochondria reciprocally activate Nrf2 by releasing reactive oxygen species and regulating antioxidant enzymes. Critical Issues: In this review, we first summarize the interactions between Nrf2 and mitochondria in the modulation of oxidative stress and inflammation to ameliorate MetS, then propose that Nrf2 and mitochondria form a mutually regulating circuit critical to maintaining homeostasis during MetS. Future Directions: Targeting the Nrf2-mitochondrial circuit may be a promising strategy to ameliorate MetS, such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.

Inorganic Nanoparticle Functionalization Strategies in Immunotherapeutic Applications

Nanotechnology has been increasingly utilized in anticancer treatment owing to its ability of engineering functional nanocarriers that enhance therapeutic effectiveness while minimizing adverse effects. Inorganic nanoparticles (INPs) are prevalent nanocarriers to be customized for a wide range of anticancer applications, including theranostics, imaging, targeted drug delivery, and therapeutics, because they are advantageous for their superior biocompatibility, unique optical properties, and capacity of being modified via versatile surface functionalization strategies. In the past decades, the high adaptation of INPs in this emerging immunotherapeutic field makes them good carrier options for tumor immunotherapy and combination immunotherapy. Tumor immunotherapy requires targeted delivery of immunomodulating therapeutics to tumor locations or immunological organs to provoke immune cells and induce tumor-specific immune response while regulating immune homeostasis, particularly switching the tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment. This review explores various INP designs and formulations, and their employment in tumor immunotherapy and combination immunotherapy. We also introduce detailed demonstrations of utilizing surface engineering tactics to create multifunctional INPs. The generated INPs demonstrate the abilities of stimulating and enhancing the immune response, specific targeting, and regulating cancer cells, immune cells, and their resident microenvironment, sometimes along with imaging and tracking capabilities, implying their potential in multitasking immunotherapy. Furthermore, we discuss the promises of INP-based combination immunotherapy in tumor treatments.

1-L Transcription in Prion Diseases

Understanding the pathogenesis and mechanisms of prion diseases can significantly expand our knowledge in the field of neurodegenerative diseases. Prion biology is increasingly recognized as being relevant to the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, both of which affect millions of people each year. This bioinformatics study used a theoretical protein-RNA recognition code (1-L transcription) to reveal the post-transcriptional regulation of the prion protein (PrPC). The principle for this method is directly elucidated on PrPC, in which an octa-repeat can be 1-L transcribed into a GGA triplet repeat RNA aptamer known to reduce the misfolding of normal PrPC into abnormal PrPSc. The identified genes/proteins are associated with mitochondria, cancer, COVID-19 and ER-stress, and approximately half are directly or indirectly associated with prion diseases. For example, the octa-repeat supports CD44, and regions of the brain with astrocytic prion accumulation also display high levels of CD44.

Taming neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's disease: The protective role of phytochemicals through the gut-brain axis

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive degenerative neurological condition characterized by cognitive decline, primarily affecting memory and logical thinking, attributed to amyloid-β plaques and tau protein tangles in the brain, leading to neuronal loss and brain atrophy. Neuroinflammation, a hallmark of AD, involves the activation of microglia and astrocytes in response to pathological changes, potentially exacerbating neuronal damage. The gut-brain axis is a bidirectional communication pathway between the gastrointestinal and central nervous systems, crucial for maintaining brain health. Phytochemicals, natural compounds found in plants with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, such as flavonoids, curcumin, resveratrol, and quercetin, have emerged as potential modulators of this axis, suggesting implications for AD prevention. Intake of phytochemicals influences the gut microbial composition and its metabolites, thereby impacting neuroinflammation and oxidative stress in the brain. Consumption of phytochemical-rich foods may promote a healthy gut microbiota, fostering the production of anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective substances. Early dietary incorporation of phytochemicals offers a non-invasive strategy for modulating the gut-brain axis and potentially reducing AD risk or delaying its onset. The exploration of interventions targeting the gut-brain axis through phytochemical intake represents a promising avenue for the development of preventive or therapeutic strategies against AD initiation and progression.

STK3 kinase activation inhibits tumor proliferation through FOXO1-TP53INP1/P21 pathway in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

PURPOSE

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is an aggressive disease with a poor prognosis, caused by the inactivation of critical cell growth regulators that lead to uncontrolled proliferation and increased malignancy. Although Serine/Threonine Kinase 3 (STK3), also known as Mammalian STE20-like protein kinase 2 (MST2), is a highly conserved kinase of the Hippo pathway, plays a critical role in immunomodulation, organ development, cellular differentiation, and cancer suppression, its phenotype and function in ESCC require further investigation. In this study, we report for the first time on the role of STK3 kinase and its activation condition in ESCC, as well as the mechanism and mediators of kinase activation.

METHODS

In this study, we investigated the expression and clinical significance of STK3 in ESCC. We first used bioinformatics databases and immunohistochemistry to analyze STK3 expression in the ESCC patient cohort and conducted survival analysis. In vivo, we conducted a tumorigenicity assay using nude mouse models to demonstrate the phenotypes of STK3 kinase. In vitro, we conducted Western blot analysis, qPCR analysis, CO-IP, and immunofluorescence (IF) staining analysis to detect molecule expression, interaction, and distribution. We measured proliferation, migration, and apoptosis abilities in ESCC cells in the experimental groups using CCK-8 and transwell assays, flow cytometry, and EdU staining. We used RNA-seq to identify genes that were differentially expressed in ESCC cells with silenced STK3 or FOXO1. We demonstrated the regulatory relationship of the TP53INP1/P21 gene medicated by the STK3-FOXO1 axis using Western blotting and ChIP in vitro.

RESULTS

We demonstrate high STK3 expression in ESCC tissue and cell lines compared to esophageal epithelium. Cellular ROS induces STK3 autophosphorylation in ESCC cells, resulting in upregulated p-STK3/4. STK3 activation inhibits ESCC cell proliferation and migration by triggering apoptosis and suppressing the cell cycle. STK3 kinase activation phosphorylates FOXO1Ser212, promoting nuclear translocation, enhancing transcriptional activity, and upregulating TP53INP1 and P21. We also investigated TP53INP1 and P21's phenotypic effects in ESCC, finding that their knockdown significantly increases tumor proliferation, highlighting their crucial role in ESCC tumorigenesis.

CONCLUSION

STK3 kinase has a high expression level in ESCC and can be activated by cellular ROS, inhibiting cell proliferation and migration. Additionally, STK3 activation-mediated FOXO1 regulates ESCC cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest by targeting TP53INP1/P21. Our research underscores the anti-tumor function of STK3 in ESCC and elucidates the mechanism underlying its anti-tumor effect on ESCC.

NOX2 Enzyme Mimicking Nano-Networks Regulate Tumor-Associated Macrophages to Initiate Both Innate and Adaptive Immune Effects

Macrophages, capable of both direct killing and antigen presentation, are crucial for the interplay between innate and adaptive immunity. However, strategies mainly focus on polarizing tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) to M1 phenotype, while overlooking the inefficient antigen cross-presentation due to hyperactive hydrolytic protease within lysosomes which leads to antigen degradation. In light of the significant influence of reactive oxygen species (ROS) on TAMs' polarization and the inhibition of phagosomal proteolysis, a novel nanosystem termed OVA-Fe-GA (OFG) is engineered, drawing inspiration from the NOX2 enzyme's role. OFG integrates ovalbumin (OVA) and a network composed of Fe-gallic acid (GA), emulating the NOX2 enzyme's sequential ROS generation process ("O2 to O2 •- to H2O2/•OH"). Furthermore, it elucidates a biological mechanism that augments antigen cross-presentation by suppressing the expression of cysteine proteases. OFG restores the innate anti-tumor functionality of TAMs and significantly amplifies their antigen cross-presentation (4.5-fold compared to the PBS control group) in B16-OVA tumor-bearing mice. Notably, the infiltration and activity of intratumoral CD8+ T cells are enhanced, indicating an adaptive immune response. Moreover, OFG exhibits excellent photothermal properties, thereby fostering a system antitumor immune response. This study provides a promising strategy for initiating both innate and adaptive immunity via TAMs activation.

Functional analysis of OmpA and its contribution to pathogenesis of Edwardsiella tarda

Outer membrane protein A (OmpA), a major component of outer membrane proteins in gram-negative bacteria, is considered to be an important virulence factor in various pathogenic bacteria, but its underlying mechanisms involved in pathogenic process of Edwardsiella tarda has not yet been fully elucidated. E. tarda is an important facultative intracellular pathogen with a broad host range. This bacterium could survive and replicate in macrophages as an escape mechanism from the host defense. To address the functions of OmpA and its potential roles in the pathogenesis of E. tarda, ΔompA mutant strain and ΔompA-C complementary strain were constructed by the allelic exchange method in this study. Here, we demonstrate that the abilities of motility, biofilm formation and adherence to RAW264.7 cells of ΔompA were significantly impaired, although there was no difference in growth between wild-type (WT) strain and ΔompA. Moreover, inactivation of ompA rendered E. tarda more sensitive to oxidative, heat shock and osmotic stress, which simulate the in vivo conditions that E. tarda encounters within the intramacrophage environment. Consist with this observation, ΔompA was also found to be markedly attenuated for growth within macrophages. In addition, compared with the WT strain, ΔompA activated macrophages to release more inflammatory mediators, including tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO). However, flow cytometry analysis revealed that ΔompA induced less apoptosis of RAW264.7 cells as compared with WT strain, characterized by decreased Annexin V binding and the activation of caspase-3. Overall, our findings suggest an importance of OmpA to E. tarda and provide the first comprehensive insight into its functions and potential roles in the pathogenesis of E. tarda, including its effect on interaction with macrophages.

Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals that NRF2 regulates vascular smooth muscle cell phenotypic switching in abdominal aortic aneurysm

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a life-threatening disease characterized by extensive membrane destruction in the vascular wall that is closely associated with vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) phenotypic switching. A thorough understanding of the changes in regulatory factors during VSMC phenotypic switching is essential for managing AAA therapy. In this study, we revealed the impact of NRF2 on the modulation of VSMC phenotype and the development of AAA based on single-cell RNA sequencing analysis. By utilizing a murine model of VSMC-specific knockout of nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (NRF2), we observed that the absence of NRF2 in VSMCs exacerbated AAA formation in an angiotensin II-induced AAA model. The downregulation of NRF2 promoted VSMC phenotypic switching, leading to an enhanced inflammatory response. Through genome-wide transcriptome analysis and loss- or gain-of-function experiments, we discovered that NRF2 upregulated the expression of VSMC contractile phenotype-specific genes by facilitating microRNA-145 (miR-145) expression. Our data identified NRF2 as a novel regulator involved in maintaining the VSMC contractile phenotype while also influencing AAA formation through an miR-145-dependent regulatory mechanism.

Imaging Mass Spectrometry and Genome Mining Reveal Antimicrobial Peptides of Novel Pediococcus acidilactici CCFM18

The mechanism of metabolites produced by lactic acid bacteria in mediating microbial interactions has been difficult to ascertain. This study comparatively evaluated the antimicrobial effect of the novel bacterium Pediococcus acidilactici CCFM18 and explored the global chemical view of its interactions with indicator bacteria. P. acidilactici CCFM18 had sufficiently strong antimicrobial activity to effectively inhibit the growth of the indicator bacteria and enhance their intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) level. The emerging technique of matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) imaging mass spectrometry indicated that P. acidilactici CCFM18 increased the production of pediocin PA-1 and the penocin A profile during its interaction with the indicator bacteria, thus differing from P. acidilactici CCFM28 (a commonly used laboratory strain). Strikingly, the production of coagulin A was triggered only by signaling molecules made by the competing strain L. thermophilus, suggesting an idiosyncratic response from P. acidilactici CCFM18. Bioinformatic mining of the P. acidilactici CCFM18 draft genome sequence revealed gene loci that code for the complex secondary metabolites analyzed via MSI. Taken together, these results illustrate that chemical interactions between P. acidilactici CCFM18 and indicator bacteria exhibit high complexity and specificity and can drive P. acidilactici CCFM18 to produce different secondary metabolites.

The role of oxidative stress in aortic dissection: a potential therapeutic target

The incidence of aortic dissection (AD) is steadily increasing, driven by the rising prevalence of chronic conditions such as hypertension and the global aging of the population. Oxidative stress emerges as a pivotal pathophysiological mechanism contributing to the progression of AD. Oxidative stress triggers apoptosis in vascular smooth muscle cells, reshapes the extracellular matrix (ECM), and governs ECM degradation and remodeling, subsequently impacting aortic compliance. Furthermore, oxidative stress not only facilitates the infiltration of macrophages and mononuclear lymphocytes but also disrupts the integral structure and functionality of endothelial cells, thereby inducing endothelial cell dysfunction and furthering the degeneration of the middle layer of the aortic wall. Investigating antioxidants holds promise as a therapeutic avenue for addressing AD.

Therapeutic administration of Luteolin protects against Escherichia coli-derived Lipopolysaccharide-triggered inflammatory response and oxidative injury

Endometritis reduces reproductive effectiveness and leads to significant financial losses in the dairy sector. Luteolin is a natural phyto-flavonoid compound with many biological activities. However, the therapeutic effect of Luteolin against lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-induced endometritis has not yet been explored. A total of eighty female Kunming mice were randomly assigned into four treatment groups (n = 20). Following a successful initiation of the endometritis model by LPS, Luteolin was intraperitoneally administered three times, at six-hour intervals between each injection in the Luteolin groups. The histopathological findings revealed that Luteolin significantly alleviated uterine injury induced by LPS. Moreover, Luteolin suppressed the synthesis of pro-inflammatory mediators [interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α] while promoting the synthesis of an anti-inflammatory mediator (IL-10) altered by LPS. Furthermore, Luteolin significantly mitigated the LPS-induced oxidative stress by scavenging malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS), accumulation and boosting the capacity of antioxidant enzyme activities such as superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase 1 (Gpx1) in the uterine tissue of mice. Additionally, injection of Luteolin markedly increased the expression of Toll-like receptors (TLR) 4 both at mRNA and protein levels under LPS stimulation. Western blotting and ELISA findings demonstrated that Luteolin suppressed the activation of the NF-κB pathway in response to LPS exposure in the uterine tissue of mice. Notably, Luteolin enhanced the anti-oxidant defense system by activating the Nrf2 signaling pathway under LPS exposure in the uterine tissue of mice. Conclusively, our findings demonstrated that Luteolin effectively alleviated LPS-induced endometritis via modulation of TLR4-associated Nrf2 and NF-κB signaling pathways.

Hippo kinases Mst1 and Mst2 maintain NK cell homeostasis by orchestrating metabolic state and transcriptional activity

Natural killer (NK) cells play a crucial role in immune response against viral infections and tumors. However, further investigation is needed to better understand the key molecules responsible for determining the fate and function of NK cells. In this study, we made an important discovery regarding the involvement of the Hippo kinases Mst1 and Mst2 as novel regulators in maintaining mouse NK cell homeostasis. The presence of high Mst1 and Mst2 (Mst1/2) activity in NK cells is essential for their proper development, survival and function in a canonical Hippo signaling independent mode. Mechanistically, Mst1/2 induce cellular quiescence by regulating the processes of proliferation and mitochondrial metabolism, thereby ensuring the development and survival of NK cells. Furthermore, Mst1/2 effectively sense IL-15 signaling and facilitate the activation of pSTAT3-TCF1, which contributes to NK cell homeostasis. Overall, our investigation highlights the crucial role of Mst1/2 as key regulators in metabolic reprogramming and transcriptional regulation for mouse NK cell survival and function, emphasizing the significance of cellular quiescence during NK cell development and functional maturation.

Redox regulation of macrophages

Redox signaling, a mode of signal transduction that involves the transfer of electrons from a nucleophilic to electrophilic molecule, has emerged as an essential regulator of inflammatory macrophages. Redox reactions are driven by reactive oxygen/nitrogen species (ROS and RNS) and redox-sensitive metabolites such as fumarate and itaconate, which can post-translationally modify specific cysteine residues in target proteins. In the past decade our understanding of how ROS, RNS, and redox-sensitive metabolites control macrophage function has expanded dramatically. In this review, we discuss the latest evidence of how ROS, RNS, and metabolites regulate macrophage function and how this is dysregulated with disease. We highlight the key tools to assess redox signaling and important questions that remain.

The current insights of mitochondrial hormesis in the occurrence and treatment of bone and cartilage degeneration

It is widely acknowledged that aging, mitochondrial dysfunction, and cellular phenotypic abnormalities are intricately associated with the degeneration of bone and cartilage. Consequently, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the regulatory patterns governing mitochondrial function and its underlying mechanisms holds promise for mitigating the progression of osteoarthritis, intervertebral disc degeneration, and osteoporosis. Mitochondrial hormesis, referred to as mitohormesis, represents a cellular adaptive stress response mechanism wherein mitochondria restore homeostasis and augment resistance capabilities against stimuli by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS), orchestrating unfolded protein reactions (UPRmt), inducing mitochondrial-derived peptides (MDP), instigating mitochondrial dynamic changes, and activating mitophagy, all prompted by low doses of stressors. The varying nature, intensity, and duration of stimulus sources elicit divergent degrees of mitochondrial stress responses, subsequently activating one or more signaling pathways to initiate mitohormesis. This review focuses specifically on the effector molecules and regulatory networks associated with mitohormesis, while also scrutinizing extant mechanisms of mitochondrial dysfunction contributing to bone and cartilage degeneration through oxidative stress damage. Additionally, it underscores the potential of mechanical stimulation, intermittent dietary restrictions, hypoxic preconditioning, and low-dose toxic compounds to trigger mitohormesis, thereby alleviating bone and cartilage degeneration.

Meningioma achieves malignancy and erastin-induced ferroptosis resistance through FOXM1-AURKA-NRF2 axis

The oncogene Aurora kinase A (AURKA) has been implicated in various tumor, yet its role in meningioma remains unexplored. Recent studies have suggested a potential link between AURKA and ferroptosis, although the underlying mechanisms are unclear. This study presented evidence of AURKA upregulation in high grade meningioma and its ability to enhance malignant characteristics. We identified AURKA as a suppressor of erastin-induced ferroptosis in meningioma. Mechanistically, AURKA directly interacted with and phosphorylated kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1), thereby activating nuclear factor erythroid 2 related factor 2 (NFE2L2/NRF2) and target genes transcription. Additionally, forkhead box protein M1 (FOXM1) facilitated the transcription of AURKA. Suppression of AURKA, in conjunction with erastin, yields significant enhancements in the prognosis of a murine model of meningioma. Our study elucidates an unidentified mechanism by which AURKA governs ferroptosis, and strongly suggests that the combination of AURKA inhibition and ferroptosis-inducing agents could potentially provide therapeutic benefits for meningioma treatment.

The Triterpenoid CDDO-Methyl Ester Reduces Tumor Burden, Reprograms the Immune Microenvironment, and Protects from Chemotherapy-Induced Toxicity in a Preclinical Mouse Model of Established Lung Cancer

NRF2 activation protects epithelial cells from malignancy, but cancer cells can upregulate the pathway to promote survival. NRF2 activators including CDDO-Methyl ester (CDDO-Me) inhibit cancer in preclinical models, suggesting NRF2 activation in other cell types may promote anti-tumor activity. However, the immunomodulatory effects of NRF2 activation remain poorly understood in the context of cancer. To test CDDO-Me in a murine model of established lung cancer, tumor-bearing wildtype (WT) and Nrf2 knockout (KO) mice were treated with 50-100 mg CDDO-Me/kg diet, alone or combined with carboplatin/paclitaxel (C/P) for 8-12 weeks. CDDO-Me decreased tumor burden in an Nrf2-dependent manner. The combination of CDDO-Me plus C/P was significantly (p < 0.05) more effective than either drug alone, reducing tumor burden by 84% in WT mice. CDDO-Me reduced the histopathological grade of WT tumors, with a significantly (p < 0.05) higher proportion of low-grade tumors and a lower proportion of high-grade tumors. These changes were augmented by combination with C/P. CDDO-Me also protected WT mice from C/P-induced toxicity and improved macrophage and T cell phenotypes in WT mice, reducing the expression of CD206 and PD-L1 on macrophages, decreasing immunosuppressive FoxP3+ CD4+ T cells, and increasing activation of CD8+ T cells in a Nrf2-dependent manner.

In vitro heterochronic parabiosis identifies pigment epithelium-derived factor as a systemic mediator of rejuvenation by young blood

Several decades of heterochronic parabiosis (HCPB) studies have demonstrated the restorative impact of young blood, and deleterious influence of aged blood, on physiological function and homeostasis across tissues, although few of the factors responsible for these observations have been identified. Here we develop an in vitro HCPB system to identify these circulating factors, using replicative lifespan (RLS) of primary human fibroblasts as an endpoint of cellular health. We find that RLS is inversely correlated with serum donor age and sensitive to the presence or absence of specific serum components. Through in vitro HCPB, we identify the secreted protein pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) as a circulating factor that extends RLS of primary human fibroblasts and declines with age in mammals. Systemic administration of PEDF to aged mice reverses age-related functional decline and pathology across several tissues, improving cognitive function and reducing hepatic fibrosis and renal lipid accumulation. Together, our data supports PEDF as a systemic mediator of the effect of young blood on organismal health and homeostasis and establishes our in vitro HCPB system as a valuable screening platform for the identification of candidate circulating factors involved in aging and rejuvenation.

Intermittent fasting along with hydroalcoholic extract of Centella-asiatica ameliorates sub-acute hypoxia-induced ischemic stroke in adult zebrafish

Reduced blood flow (hypoxia) to the brain is thought to be the main cause of strokes because it deprives the brain of oxygen and nutrients. An increasing amount of evidence indicates that the Centella-Asiatica (HA-CA) hydroalcoholic extract has a variety of pharmacological benefits, such as antioxidant activity, neuroprotection, anti-inflammatory qualities, and angiogenesis promotion. Intermittent fasting (IF) has neurological benefits such as anti-inflammatory properties, neuroprotective effects, and the ability to enhance neuroplasticity. The current study evaluates the combined effect of IF (for 1, 6, and 12 days) along with HA-CA (daily up to 12 days) in adult zebrafish subjected to hypoxia every 5 min for 12 days followed by behavioral (novel tank and open-field tank test), biochemical (SOD, GSH-Px, and LPO), inflammatory (IL-10, IL-1β, and TNF-α), mitochondrial enzyme activities (Complex-I, II, and IV), signaling molecules (AMPK, MAPK, GSK-3β, Nrf2), and imaging/staining (H&E, TTC, and TEM) analysis. Results show that sub-acute hypoxia promotes the behavioral alterations, and production of radical species and alters the oxidative stress status in brain tissues of zebrafish, along with mitochondrial dysfunction, neuroinflammation, and alteration of signaling molecules. Nevertheless, HA-CA along with IF significantly ameliorates these defects in adult zebrafish as compared to their effects alone. Further, imaging analysis significantly provided evidence of infarct damage along with neuronal and mitochondrial damage which was significantly ameliorated by IF and HA-CA. The use of IF and HA-CA has been proven to enhance the physiological effects of hypoxia in all dimensions.

Inhibition of MST1 ameliorates neuronal apoptosis via GSK3β/β-TrCP/NRF2 pathway in spinal cord injury accompanied by diabetes

AIMS

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating neurological disease that often results in tremendous loss of motor function. Increasing evidence demonstrates that diabetes worsens outcomes for patients with SCI due to the higher levels of neuronal oxidative stress. Mammalian sterile 20-like kinase (MST1) is a key mediator of oxidative stress in the central nervous system; however, the mechanism of its action in SCI is still not clear. Here, we investigated the role of MST1 activation in induced neuronal oxidative stress in patients with both SCI and diabetes.

METHODS

Diabetes was established in mice by diet induction combined with intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ). SCI was performed at T10 level through weight dropping. Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) were applied to mimic diabetic conditions in PC12 cell line in vitro. We employed HE, Nissl staining, footprint assessment and Basso mouse scale to evaluate functional recovery after SCI. Moreover, immunoblotting, qPCR, immunofluorescence and protein-protein docking analysis were used to detect the mechanism.

RESULTS

Regarding in vivo experiments, diabetes resulted in up-regulation of MST1, excessive neuronal apoptosis and weakened motor function in SCI mice. Furthermore, diabetes impeded NRF2-mediated antioxidant defense of neurons in the damaged spinal cord. Treatment with AAV-siMST1 could restore antioxidant properties of neurons to facilitate reactive oxygen species (ROS) clearance, which subsequently promoted neuronal survival to improve locomotor function recovery. In vitro model found that AGEs worsened mitochondrial dysfunction and increased cellular oxidative stress. While MST1 inhibition through the chemical inhibitor XMU-MP-1 or MST1-shRNA infection restored NRF2 nuclear accumulation and its transcription of downstream antioxidant enzymes, therefore preventing ROS generation. However, these antioxidant effects were reversed by NRF2 knockdown. Our in-depth studies showed that over-activation of MST1 in diabetes directly hindered the neuroprotective AKT1, and subsequently fostered NRF2 ubiquitination and degradation via the GSK3β/β-TrCP pathway.

CONCLUSION

MST1 inhibition significantly restores neurological function in SCI mice with preexisting diabetes, which is largely attributed to the activation of antioxidant properties via the GSK3β(Ser 9)/β-TrCP/NRF2 pathway. MST1 may be a promising pharmacological target for the effective treatment of spinal cord injury patients with diabetes.

Inflammatory-stimuli-responsive turn-on NIR fluorogenic theranostic prodrug: adjuvant delivery of diclofenac and hydrogen sulfide attenuates acute inflammatory disorders

Prolonged use of very commonly prescribed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is often associated with undesired side effects, including gastrointestinal ulcers due to the non-selective inhibition of cyclooxygenases. We describe the development of an inflammatory-stimuli-responsive turn-on fluorogenic theranostic prodrug DCF-HS for adjuvant drug delivery. Upon activation by reactive oxygen species (ROS), the prodrug releases diclofenac DCF (active drug) and the NIR fluorophore DCI-NH2 along with carbonyl sulfide (COS). The second activation of COS by the enzyme carbonic anhydrase (CA) generates hydrogen sulfide (H2S). The prodrug was conveniently synthesized using multi-step organic synthesis. The UV-Vis and fluorescence studies revealed the selective reactivity of DCF-HS towards ROS such as H2O2 in the aqueous phase and the desired uncaging of the drug DCF with turn-on NIR fluorescent reporter under physiological conditions. Furthermore, the release of fluorophore DCI-NH2 and drug DCF was confirmed using the reverse phase HPLC method. Compatibility of prodrug activation was studied next in the cellular medium. The prodrug DCF-HS was non-toxic in a representative cancer cell line (HeLa) and a macrophage cell line (RAW 264.7) up to 100 μM concentration, indicating its biocompatibility. The intracellular ROS-mediated activation of the prodrug with the release of NIR dye DCI-NH2 and H2S was investigated in HeLa cells using the H2S-selective probe WSP2. The anti-inflammatory activity of the active drug DCF from the prodrug DCF-HS was studied in the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced macrophage cell line and compared to that of the parent drug DCF using western blot analysis and it was found that the active drug resulted in pronounced inhibition of COX-2 in a dose-dependent manner. Finally, the anti-inflammatory potential of the prodrug and the turn-on fluorescence were validated in the inflammation-induced Wister rat models.

Immune Dysregulation in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a disease whose incidence increase with age and is characterised by chronic inflammation and significant immune dysregulation. Inhalation of toxic substances cause oxidative stress in the lung tissue as well as airway inflammation, under the recruitment of chemokines, immune cells gathered and are activated to play a defensive role. However, persistent inflammation damages the immune system and leads to immune dysregulation, which is mainly manifested in the reduction of the body's immune response to antigens, and immune cells function are impaired, further destroy the respiratory defensive system, leading to recurrent lower respiratory infections and progressive exacerbation of the disease, thus immune dysregulation play an important role in the pathogenesis of COPD. This review summarizes the changes of innate and adaptive immune-related cells during the pathogenesis of COPD, aiming to control COPD airway inflammation and improve lung tissue remodelling by regulating immune dysregulation, for further reducing the risk of COPD progression and opening new avenues of therapeutic intervention in COPD.

MST1/2: Important regulators of Hippo pathway in immune system associated diseases

The Hippo signaling pathway is first found in Drosophila and is highly conserved in evolution. Previous studies on this pathway in mammals have revealed its key role in cell proliferation and differentiation, organ size control, and carcinogenesis. Apart from these, recent findings indicate that mammalian Ste20-like kinases 1 and 2 (MST1/2) have significant effects on immune regulation. In this review, we summarize the updated understanding of how MST1/2 affect the regulation of the immune system and the specific mechanism. The effect of MST1/2 on immune cells and its role in the tumor immune microenvironment can alter the body's response to tumor cells. The relationship between MST1/2 and the immune system suggests new directions in the manipulation of immune responses for clinical immunotherapy, especially for tumor treatment.

Inflammatory liver diseases and susceptibility to sepsis

Patients with inflammatory liver diseases, particularly alcohol-associated liver disease and metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), have higher incidence of infections and mortality rate due to sepsis. The current focus in the development of drugs for MAFLD is the resolution of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and prevention of progression to cirrhosis. In patients with cirrhosis or alcoholic hepatitis, sepsis is a major cause of death. As the metabolic center and a key immune tissue, liver is the guardian, modifier, and target of sepsis. Septic patients with liver dysfunction have the highest mortality rate compared with other organ dysfunctions. In addition to maintaining metabolic homeostasis, the liver produces and secretes hepatokines and acute phase proteins (APPs) essential in tissue protection, immunomodulation, and coagulation. Inflammatory liver diseases cause profound metabolic disorder and impairment of energy metabolism, liver regeneration, and production/secretion of APPs and hepatokines. Herein, the author reviews the roles of (1) disorders in the metabolism of glucose, fatty acids, ketone bodies, and amino acids as well as the clearance of ammonia and lactate in the pathogenesis of inflammatory liver diseases and sepsis; (2) cytokines/chemokines in inflammatory liver diseases and sepsis; (3) APPs and hepatokines in the protection against tissue injury and infections; and (4) major nuclear receptors/signaling pathways underlying the metabolic disorders and tissue injuries as well as the major drug targets for inflammatory liver diseases and sepsis. Approaches that focus on the liver dysfunction and regeneration will not only treat inflammatory liver diseases but also prevent the development of severe infections and sepsis.

Effects of Dietary Gracilaria lichenoides and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens on Growth Performance, Antioxidant Capacity, and Intestinal Health of Penaeus monodon

This research sought to assess the effects of dietary supplements with Gracilaria lichenoides and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, either individually or combined, on the growth performance, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal function of Penaeus monodon. A total of 840 shrimps were randomly assigned to 28 tanks with an average initial weight of (1.04 ± 0.03) g (30 shrimp per tank) with 7 different treatment groups and 4 replicates per treatment. The control treatment (C) consisted of a basal diet; in contrast, the experimental groups were complement with varying levels of G. lichenoides (3% or 8%), either alone (S3 and S8) or in combination with B.amyloliquefaciens at different concentrations (3% G. lichenoides and 109 CFU/g-S3B9; 8% G. lichenoides and 1011 CFU/g B. amyloliquefaciens-S8B11; 109 CFU/g B. amyloliquefaciens-S9; 1011 CFU/g B. amyloliquefaciens-B11). The results indicated that the maximum values of final body weight (FBW) (10.49 ± 0.90) g, weight gain rate (WGR) (908.94 ± 33.58) g, and specific growth rate (SGR) (4.20 ± 0.06) g were perceived in the 3% G. lichenoide diet treatment, and compared with the control group, the difference was significant (p < 0.05). The whole-body lipid content of shrimp in the B9 group was significantly higher than that in the B11 group (p < 0.05), but no significant difference was observed when compared with shrimp fed other diets (p > 0.05). The ash content of shrimp in the B9 group was found to be significantly higher than that in the S3B9 group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the lipase activity in the stomach and intestines of the experimental groups exhibited a statistically significantly increase compared to the control (p < 0.05). In comparison to the control group, the hepatopancreas of the S3 group exhibited a significant increase in the activities of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and antioxidant genes [SOD, catalase (CAT), GSH-Px, thioredoxin (Trx), Hippo, and NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)] expression levels (p < 0.05). Additionally, the activities of total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), SOD, peroxidase (POD), and antioxidant genes (CAT, GSH-Px, Trx, and Hippo) in the S3B9 treatment of hepatopancreas showed significant improvement (p < 0.05). The inclusion of dietary G. lichenoides and B. amyloliquefaciens resulted in enhanced relative expression of intestinal lipid metabolism genes (fatty acid synthetase (FAS), lipophorin receptor (LR), fatty acid transport protein 1 (FATP1)) and suppressed the expression of the long-chain fatty acid-CoA ligase 4 (LCL4) gene. Analysis of microbiota sequencing indicated improvements in composition and structure, with notable increases in Firmicutes at the phylum level and Vibrio at the genus level in the S3 group, as well as an increase in Tenericutes at the genus level in the S8B11 group. Overall, the inclusion of dietary G. lichenoides and B. amyloliquefaciens positively impacted the growth, antioxidant capacity, and microbial composition of shrimp, with particular enhancement observed in shrimp fed a supplementary 3% G. lichenoides diet.

SLC15A3 plays a crucial role in pulmonary fibrosis by regulating macrophage oxidative stress

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a fatal and irreversible disease with few effective treatments. Alveolar macrophages (AMs) are involved in the development of IPF from the initial stages due to direct exposure to air and respond to external oxidative damage (a major inducement of pulmonary fibrosis). Oxidative stress in AMs plays an indispensable role in promoting fibrosis development. The oligopeptide histidine transporter SLC15A3, mainly expressed on the lysosomal membrane of macrophages and highly expressed in the lung, has proved to be involved in innate immune and antiviral signaling pathways. In this study, we demonstrated that during bleomycin (BLM)- or radiation-induced pulmonary fibrosis, the recruitment of macrophages induced an increase of SLC15A3 in the lung, and the deficiency of SLC15A3 protected mice from pulmonary fibrosis and maintained the homeostasis of the pulmonary microenvironment. Mechanistically, deficiency of SLC15A3 resisted oxidative stress in macrophages, and SLC15A3 interacted with the scaffold protein p62 to regulate its expression and phosphorylation activation, thereby regulating p62-nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) antioxidant stress pathway protein, which is related to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Overall, our data provided a novel mechanism for targeting SLC15A3 to regulate oxidative stress in macrophages, supporting the therapeutic potential of inhibiting or silencing SLC15A3 for the precautions and treatment of pulmonary fibrosis.

Ceramide kinase-mediated C1P metabolism attenuates acute liver injury by inhibiting the interaction between KEAP1 and NRF2

Acute liver injury is the basis of the pathogenesis of diverse liver diseases. However, the mechanism underlying liver injury is complex and not completely understood. In our study, we revealed that CERK, which phosphorylates ceramide to produce ceramide-1-phosphate (C1P), was the sphingolipid pathway-related protein that had the most significantly upregulated expression during acute liver injury. A functional study confirmed that CERK and C1P attenuate hepatic injury both in vitro and in vivo through antioxidant effects. Mechanistic studies have shown that CERK and C1P positively regulate the protein expression of NRF2, which is a crucial protein that helps maintain redox homeostasis. Furthermore, our results indicated that C1P disrupted the interaction between NRF2 and KEAP1 by competitively binding to KEAP1, which allowed for the nuclear translocation of NRF2. In addition, pull-down assays and molecular docking analyses revealed that C1P binds to the DGR domain of KEAP1, which allows it to maintain its interaction with NRF2. Importantly, these findings were verified in human primary hepatocytes and a mouse model of hepatic ischemia‒reperfusion injury. Taken together, our findings demonstrated that CERK-mediated C1P metabolism attenuates acute liver injury via the binding of C1P to the DGR domain of KEAP1 and subsequently the release and nuclear translocation of NRF2, which activates the transcription of cytoprotective and antioxidant genes. Our study suggested that the upregulation of CERK and C1P expression may serve as a potential antioxidant strategy to alleviate acute liver injury.

Platycodon D protects human nasal epithelial cells from pyroptosis through the Nrf2/HO-1/ROS signaling cascade in chronic rhinosinusitis

BACKGROUND

Pyroptosis has been demonstrated being closely associated with the inflammatory progression in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). However, platycodon D (PLD) has emerged as a key anti-inflammatory mediator in the inflammatory progression of various respiratory diseases. This study aims at investigating whether PLD could reduce inflammatory progression of CRS by inhibiting pyroptosis.

METHODS

Nasal mucosal tissues from patients with CRS and the control group (simple nasal septal deviation) were analyzed for morphological difference using hematoxylin & eosin staining and for the expression of pyroptosis-related makers by immunofluorescence (IF). Human nasal epithelial cells (HNEpCs) were cultured and co-stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS)/adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to construct an in vitro cellular model simulating CRS. After pretreatment with PLD, EthD-I staining, TUNEL staining, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and GSDMD-NT detection were performed to evaluate pyroptosis markers. The NLRP3 inflammasome was detected by IF and western blotting (WB). Reactive oxygen species (ROS) were detected by H2DCFDA staining, and mitochondrial membrane potential was evaluated by JC-1 staining. Mitochondrial morphology and structure were observed using TEM. The Nrf2/HO-1 antioxidant signaling pathway was detected using WB.

RESULTS

The nasal mucosa structure of patients with CRS exhibited significant damage, with a marked increase in the expression of pyroptosis-related proteins compared with the control group. LPS/ATP co-stimulation resulted in an increased expression of IL-18 and IL-1β in HNEpCs, causing significant damage to nuclear and cell membranes, GSDMD-NT accumulation around the cell membrane, and intracellular NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Furthermore, it led to increased ROS expression, significantly decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, and damaged mitochondrial structure. However, pretreatment with PLD significantly reversed the aforementioned trends and activated the Nrf2/HO-1 antioxidant signaling pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study confirm that NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis plays a crucial role in the pathological process of nasal mucosal impairment in patients with CRS. PLD inhibits NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis, preventing inflammatory damage in HNEpCs of patients with CRS by activating the Nrf2/HO-1 antioxidant signaling pathway, which in turn reduces ROS production and ameliorates mitochondrial damage.

Resveratrol improves meat quality traits by activating the lncRNAs-KEAP1-NRF2 axis in pigs

This research aims at uncovering the effects and investigating the molecular mechanisms of dietary resveratrol (RES) supplementation on antioxidant capacity and meat quality of pigs. In this study, 20 μM RES could activate the KEAP1-NRF2 antioxidant defense pathway in response to oxidative stress in porcine skeletal muscle satellite cells was firstly found. Then, twenty-four healthy crossbred castrated boars were allocated to 4 treatments that were fed with a basal diet (control) and a basal diet supplemented with 200 mg, 400 mg or 600 mg RES per Kilogram (kg) of feed for 41 days, respectively. 400 and 600 mg/kg RES-supplemented diet can effectively improve the meat quality traits and activities of antioxidizing enzymes via the KEAP1-NRF2 signaling pathway of pigs. The molecular dynamic simulation further revealed that RES could directly binding to KEAP1 to reduce the tightness of KEAP1-NRF2 protein-protein interaction. More importantly, dietary supplementation of RES also improves antioxidant capacity through a series of KEAP1-NRF2 pathway-related lncRNAs were found by RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). Altogether, this study demonstrated that RES improves meat quality traits by effectively increasing antioxidant levels via the lncRNA-KEAP1-NRF2 axis in vivo and/or in vitro. These results provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms by which RES, as a nutritional agent, regulates antioxidant capacity and improves meat quality in pigs.

The Mst1/2-BNIP3 axis is required for mitophagy induction and neuronal viability under mitochondrial stress

Mitophagy induction upon mitochondrial stress is critical for maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis and cellular function. Here, we found that Mst1/2 (Stk3/4), key regulators of the Hippo pathway, are required for the induction of mitophagy under various mitochondrial stress conditions. Knockdown of Mst1/2 or pharmacological inhibition by XMU-MP-1 treatment led to impaired mitophagy induction upon CCCP and DFP treatment. Mechanistically, Mst1/2 induces mitophagy independently of the PINK1-Parkin pathway and the canonical Hippo pathway. Moreover, our results suggest the essential involvement of BNIP3 in Mst1/2-mediated mitophagy induction upon mitochondrial stress. Notably, Mst1/2 knockdown diminishes mitophagy induction, exacerbates mitochondrial dysfunction, and reduces cellular survival upon neurotoxic stress in both SH-SY5Y cells and Drosophila models. Conversely, Mst1 and Mst2 expression enhances mitophagy induction and cell survival. In addition, AAV-mediated Mst1 expression reduced the loss of TH-positive neurons, ameliorated behavioral deficits, and improved mitochondrial function in an MPTP-induced Parkinson's disease mouse model. Our findings reveal the Mst1/2-BNIP3 regulatory axis as a novel mediator of mitophagy induction under conditions of mitochondrial stress and suggest that Mst1/2 play a pivotal role in maintaining mitochondrial function and neuronal viability in response to neurotoxic treatment.

Antimicrobial Activity of Eugenol Against Bacillus cereus and Its Application in Skim Milk

Bacillus cereus is a foodborne pathogen widely distributed in the large-scale catering industry and produces spores. The study explored the antibacterial activity, potential mechanism of eugenol against B. cereus, and spores with germination rate. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC; 0.6 mg/mL) of eugenol to six B. cereus strains was compared with the control; B. cereus treated with eugenol had a longer lag phase. Eugenol at a concentration of more than 1/2MIC decreased viable B. cereus (∼5.7 log colony-forming unit [CFU]/mL) counts below detectable limits within 2 h, and eugenol of 3MIC reduced B. cereus (∼5.9 log CFU/mL) in skim milk below detectable limits within 30 min. The pH values of skim milk were unaffected by the addition of eugenol. The ΔE values below 2 show that the color variations of skim milk were not visible to the human eye. For sensory evaluation, eugenol did not significantly affect the color or structural integrity of the skim milk. It had a negative impact on the flavor and general sensory acceptance of the treated milk. Eugenol hyperpolarized B. cereus cell membrane, decreased intracellular ATP concentration, and increased intracellular reactive oxygen species contents and extracellular malondialdehyde contents, resulting in the cell membrane of B. cereus being damaged and permeabilized, and cell morphology being changed. In addition, according to the viable count, confocal laser scanning microscopy, and spore morphology changes, eugenol reduced the germination rate of B. cereus spores. These findings suggest that eugenol can be used as a new natural antibacterial agent to control B. cereus and spores in the food production chain.

Loss of macrophage TSC1 exacerbates sterile inflammatory liver injury through inhibiting the AKT/MST1/NRF2 signaling pathway

Tuberous sclerosis complex 1 (TSC1) plays important roles in regulating innate immunity. However, the precise role of TSC1 in macrophages in the regulation of oxidative stress response and hepatic inflammation in liver ischemia/reperfusion injury (I/R) remains unknown. In a mouse model of liver I/R injury, deletion of myeloid-specific TSC1 inhibited AKT and MST1 phosphorylation, and decreased NRF2 accumulation, whereas activated TLR4/NF-κB pathway, leading to increased hepatic inflammation. Adoptive transfer of AKT- or MST1-overexpressing macrophages, or Keap1 disruption in myeloid-specific TSC1-knockout mice promoted NRF2 activation but reduced TLR4 activity and mitigated I/R-induced liver inflammation. Mechanistically, TSC1 in macrophages promoted AKT and MST1 phosphorylation, and protected NRF2 from Keap1-mediated ubiquitination. Furthermore, overexpression AKT or MST1 in TSC1-knockout macrophages upregulated NRF2 expression, downregulated TLR4/NF-κB, resulting in reduced inflammatory factors, ROS and inflammatory cytokine-mediated hepatocyte apoptosis. Strikingly, TSC1 induction in NRF2-deficient macrophages failed to reverse the TLR4/NF-κB activity and production of pro-inflammatory factors. Conclusions: Macrophage TSC1 promoted the activation of the AKT/MST1 signaling pathway, increased NRF2 levels via reducing Keap1-mediated ubiquitination, and modulated oxidative stress-driven inflammatory responses in liver I/R injury. Our findings underscore the critical role of macrophage TSC1 as a novel regulator of innate immunity and imply the therapeutic potential for the treatment of sterile liver inflammation in transplant recipients. Schematic illustration of macrophage TSC1-mediated AKT/MST1/NRF2 signaling pathway in I/R-triggered liver inflammation. Macrophage TSC1 can be activated in I/R-stressed livers. TSC1 activation promotes phosphorylation of AKT and MST1, which in turn increases NRF2 expression and inhibits ROS production and TLR4/NF-κB activation, resulting in reduced hepatocellular apoptosis in I/R-triggered liver injury.

Mitochondrial stress: a key role of neuroinflammation in stroke

Stroke is a clinical syndrome characterized by an acute, focal neurological deficit, primarily caused by the occlusion or rupture of cerebral blood vessels. In stroke, neuroinflammation emerges as a pivotal event contributing to neuronal cell death. The occurrence and progression of neuroinflammation entail intricate processes, prominently featuring mitochondrial dysfunction and adaptive responses. Mitochondria, a double membrane-bound organelle are recognized as the "energy workshop" of the body. Brain is particularly vulnerable to mitochondrial disturbances due to its high energy demands from mitochondria-related energy production. The interplay between mitochondria and neuroinflammation plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of stroke. The biological and pathological consequences resulting from mitochondrial stress have substantial implications for cerebral function. Mitochondrial stress serves as an adaptive mechanism aimed at mitigating the stress induced by the import of misfolded proteins, which occurs in response to stroke. This adaptive response involves a reduction in misfolded protein accumulation and overall protein synthesis. The influence of mitochondrial stress on the pathological state of stroke is underscored by its capacity to interact with neuroinflammation. The impact of mitochondrial stress on neuroinflammation varies according to its severity. Moderate mitochondrial stress can bolster cellular adaptive defenses, enabling cells to better withstand detrimental stressors. In contrast, sustained and excessive mitochondrial stress detrimentally affects cellular and tissue integrity. The relationship between neuroinflammation and mitochondrial stress depends on the degree of mitochondrial stress present. Understanding its role in stroke pathogenesis is instrumental in excavating the novel treatment of stroke. This review aims to provide the evaluation of the cross-talk between mitochondrial stress and neuroinflammation within the context of stroke. We aim to reveal how mitochondrial stress affects neuroinflammation environment in stroke.

Urchin-like Fe3O4@Bi2S3 Nanospheres Enable the Destruction of Biofilm and Efficiently Antibacterial Activities

Biofilm-associated infections (BAIs) have been considered a major threat to public health, which induce persistent infections and serious complications. The poor penetration of antibacterial agents in biofilm significantly limits the efficiency of combating BAIs. Magnetic urchin-like core-shell nanospheres of Fe3O4@Bi2S3 were developed for physically destructing biofilm and inducing bacterial eradication via reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and innate immunity regulation. The urchin-like magnetic nanospheres with sharp edges of Fe3O4@Bi2S3 exhibited propeller-like rotation to physically destroy biofilm under a rotating magnetic field (RMF). The mild magnetic hyperthermia improved the generation of ROS and enhanced bacterial eradication. Significantly, the urchin-like nanostructure and generated ROS could stimulate macrophage polarization toward the M1 phenotype, which could eradicate the persistent bacteria with a metabolic inactivity state through phagocytosis, thereby promoting the recovery of implant infection and inhibiting recurrence. Thus, the design of magnetic-driven sharp-shaped nanostructures of Fe3O4@Bi2S3 provided enormous potential in combating biofilm infections.