FIZZ1, a novel cysteine-rich secreted protein associated with pulmonary inflammation, defines a new gene family

The human MIF polymorphism CATT7 enhances pro-inflammatory macrophage polarization in a clinically relevant model of allergic airway inflammation

High level expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokine macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) has been associated with severe asthma. The role of MIF and its functional promotor polymorphism in innate immune training is currently unknown. Using novel humanized CATT7 MIF mice, this study is the first to investigate the effect of MIF on bone marrow-derived macrophage (BMDM) memory after house dust mite (HDM) challenge. CATT7 BMDMs demonstrated a significant primed increase in M1 markers following HDM and LPS stimulation, compared to naive mice. This M1 signature was found to be MIF-dependent, as administration of a small molecule MIF inhibitor, SCD-19, blocked the induction of this pro-inflammatory M1-like phenotype in BMDMs from CATT7 mice challenged with HDM. Training naive BMDMs in vitro with HDM for 24 h followed by a rest period and subsequent stimulation with LPS led to significantly increased production of the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNFα in BMDMs from CATT7 mice but not WT mice. Addition of the pan methyltransferase inhibitor MTA before HDM training significantly abrogated this effect in BMDMs from CATT7 mice, suggesting that HDM-induced training is associated with epigenetic remodelling. These findings suggest that trained immunity induced by HDM is under genetic control, playing an important role in asthma patients with the high MIF genotypes (CATT6/7/8).

Role of Adipose Tissue Hormones in Pathogenesis of Cryptoglandular Anal Fistula

The cryptoglandular perianal fistula is a common benign anorectal disorder that is managed mainly with surgery and in some cases may be an extremely challenging condition. Perianal fistulas are often characterized by significantly decreased patient quality of life. Lack of fully recognized pathogenesis of this disease makes it difficult to treat it properly. Recently, adipose tissue hormones have been proposed to play a role in the genesis of cryptoglandular anal fistulas. The expression of adipose tissue hormones and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) factors were characterized based on 30 samples from simple fistulas and 30 samples from complex cryptoglandular perianal fistulas harvested during surgery. Tissue levels of leptin, resistin, MMP2, and MMP9 were significantly elevated in patients who underwent operations due to complex cryptoglandular perianal fistulas compared to patients with simple fistulas. Adiponectin and E-cadherin were significantly lowered in samples from complex perianal fistulas in comparison to simple fistulas. A negative correlation between leptin and E-cadherin levels was observed. Resistin and MMP2 levels, as well as adiponectin and E-cadherin levels, were positively correlated. Complex perianal cryptoglandular fistulas have a reduced level of the anti-inflammatory adipokine adiponectin and have an increase in the levels of proinflammatory resistin and leptin. Abnormal secretion of these adipokines may affect the integrity of the EMT in the fistula tract. E-cadherin, MMP2, and MMP9 expression levels were shifted in patients with more advanced and complex perianal fistulas. Our results supporting the idea of using mesenchymal stem cells in the treatment of cryptoglandular perianal fistulas seem reasonable, but further studies are warranted.

The Role of Adipokines in the Control of Pituitary Functions

The pituitary gland is a key endocrine gland in all classes of vertebrates, including mammals. The pituitary gland is an important component of hypothalamus-pituitary-target organ hormonal regulatory axes and forms a functional link between the nervous system and the endocrine system. In response to hypothalamic stimuli, the pituitary gland secretes a number of hormones involved in the regulation of metabolism, stress reactions and environmental adaptation, growth and development, as well as reproductive processes and lactation. In turn, hormones secreted by target organs at the lowest levels of the hormonal regulatory axes regulate the functions of the pituitary gland in the process of hormonal feedback. The pituitary also responds to other peripheral signals, including adipose-tissue-derived factors. These substances are a broad group of peptides known as adipocytokines or adipokines that act as endocrine hormones mainly involved in energy homeostasis. Adipokines, including adiponectin, resistin, apelin, chemerin, visfatin, and irisin, are also expressed in the pituitary gland, and they influence the secretory functions of this gland. This review is an overview of the existing knowledge of the relationship between chosen adipose-derived factors and endocrine functions of the pituitary gland, with an emphasis on the pituitary control of reproductive processes.

Injection of resistin into the paraventricular nucleus produces a cardiovascular response that may be mediated by glutamatergic transmission in the rostral ventrolateral medulla

Objectives

High levels of resistin are associated with metabolic diseases and their complications, including hypertension. The paraventricular nucleus (PVN) is also involved in metabolic disorders and cardiovascular diseases, such as hypertension. Therefore, this study aimed to study cardiovascular (CV) responses evoked by the injection of resistin into the lateral ventricle (LV) and PVN and determine the mechanism of these responses in the rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM).

Materials and Methods

Arterial pressure (AP) and heart rate (HR) were evaluated in urethane-anesthetized male rats (1.4 g/kg intraperitoneally) before and after all injections. This study was carried out in two stages. Resistin was injected into LV at the first stage, and AP and HR were evaluated. After that, the paraventricular, supraoptic, and dorsomedial nuclei of the hypothalamus were chosen to evaluate the gene expression of c-Fos. Afterward, resistin was injected into PVN, and cardiovascular responses were monitored. Then to detect possible neural mechanisms of resistin action, agonists or antagonists of glutamatergic, GABAergic, cholinergic, and aminergic transmissions were injected into RVLM.

Results

Resistin injection into LV or PVN could increase AP and HR compared to the control group and before injection. Resistin injection into LV also increases the activity of RVLM, paraventricular, supraoptic, and dorsomedial areas. Moreover, the CV reflex created by the administration of resistin in PVN is probably mediated by glutamatergic transmission within RVLM.

Conclusion

It can be concluded that hypothalamic nuclei, including paraventricular, are important central areas for resistin actions, and glutamatergic transmission in RVLM may be one of the therapeutic targets for high AP in obese people or with metabolic syndrome.

Myeloid- and epithelial-derived RELMα contribute to tissue repair following lung helminth infection

Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections impact billions of individuals globally; however, there is a need to clarify the long-term impacts of these infections on pulmonary health owing to their transient migration and subsequent damage to the lungs. In mouse models of these infections using Nippostrongylus brasiliensis, lung pathology persists at later time points post single infection. These studies also indicate the persistent transcriptional expression of resistin-like molecule α (RELMα), an immunomodulatory protein induced in type 2 immunity and alternatively activated macrophages. Using constitutive and tamoxifen-inducible cell-specific RELMα knockout mouse strains, we identified that epithelial- and myeloid-derived RELMα protein remained elevated at 30 days post infection and altered the immune cell signature and gene expression in lung compartments. Histopathological assessment of alveolar damage revealed a role for RELMα in tissue repair, suggesting the importance of sustained RELMα expression for lung recovery from helminth infection. Acellular three-dimensional (3D) lung scaffolds were prepared from the lungs of wild-type (WT), RELMα KO-naive, or 30 days post N. brasiliensis-infected mice to assess their ability to support epithelial cell growth. N. brasiliensis infection significantly altered the scaffold and impaired epithelial cell growth and metabolic activity, especially in the RELMα KO scaffolds. These findings underscore a need to identify the long-term impacts of helminth infection on human pulmonary disease, particularly as alveolar destruction can develop into chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which remains among the top global causes of death. Translation of these findings to human protein resistin, with sequence homology to RELMα therapeutic opportunities in lung repair.

The Mechanisms of Resistin-Like Molecule-β-Mediated Airway Inflammation in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease via Autophagy

Background

The role of irreversible airway inflammatory damage in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) progression is evident. Autophagy is an essential process in the cellular material metabolic cycle, and a family of resistant vegetative molecules may be involved in the COPD autophagic process. In this study, we investigated the mechanism of resistin-like molecule β (RELMβ) in COPD smoking-induced autophagy.

Methods

Firstly, the expression differences of RELMβ and autophagy markers between COPD and control groups were analyzed in the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets and clinical specimens. Secondly, in vitro and in vivo experiments were conducted using immunoblotting, immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, and other methods to investigate the mechanism by which RELMβ promotes airway inflammation through autophagy in a cigarette smoke extract-induced 16HBE cell inflammation model and a cigarette smoke-induced COPD-like mouse model. In addition, immunoprecipitation was used to analyze the binding of RELMβ to the membrane protein TLR4.

Results

The expression of RELMβ and autophagy genes p62 and LC3B in lung tissue of COPD patients was significantly increased. RELMβ can mediate the activation of autophagy in 16HBE cells, and through autophagy, it increases the expression of inflammatory cytokines in a cigarette smoke extract-induced 16HBE cell inflammation model. RELMβ promotes cigarette smoke-induced COPD-like mouse airway inflammation through autophagy, and RELMβ can mediate signal transduction through the cell membrane receptor TLR4.

Conclusion

The RELMβ binds to TLR4 to encourage signal transduction and that RELMβ can promote inflammation in smoky COPD lungs through autophagy.

Resistin-like Molecule α and Pulmonary Vascular Remodeling: A Multi-Strain Murine Model of Antigen and Urban Ambient Particulate Matter Co-Exposure

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) has a high mortality and few treatment options. Adaptive immune mediators of PH in mice challenged with antigen/particulate matter (antigen/PM) has been the focus of our prior work. We identified key roles of type-2- and type-17 responses in C57BL/6 mice. Here, we focused on type-2-response-related cytokines, specifically resistin-like molecule (RELM)α, a critical mediator of hypoxia-induced PH. Because of strain differences in the immune responses to type 2 stimuli, we compared C57BL/6J and BALB/c mice. A model of intraperitoneal antigen sensitization with subsequent, intranasal challenges with antigen/PM (ovalbumin and urban ambient PM2.5) or saline was used in C57BL/6 and BALB/c wild-type or RELMα-/- mice. Vascular remodeling was assessed with histology; right ventricular (RV) pressure, RV weights and cytokines were quantified. Upon challenge with antigen/PM, both C57BL/6 and BALB/c mice developed pulmonary vascular remodeling; these changes were much more prominent in the C57BL/6 strain. Compared to wild-type mice, RELMα-/- had significantly reduced pulmonary vascular remodeling in BALB/c, but not in C57BL/6 mice. RV weights, RV IL-33 and RV IL-33-receptor were significantly increased in BALB/c wild-type mice, but not in BALB/c-RELMα-/- or in C57BL/6-wild-type or C57BL/6-RELMα-/- mice in response to antigen/PM2.5. RV systolic pressures (RVSP) were higher in BALB/c compared to C57BL/6J mice, and RELMα-/- mice were not different from their respective wild-type controls. The RELMα-/- animals demonstrated significantly decreased expression of RELMβ and RELMγ, which makes these mice comparable to a situation where human RELMβ levels would be significantly modified, as only humans have this single RELM molecule. In BALB/c mice, RELMα was a key contributor to pulmonary vascular remodeling, increase in RV weight and RV cytokine responses induced by exposure to antigen/PM2.5, highlighting the significance of the genetic background for the biological role of RELMα.

Herbal medicine for the treatment of obesity-associated asthma: a comprehensive review

Obesity is fast growing as a global pandemic and is associated with numerous comorbidities like cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, gastroesophageal reflux disease, sleep disorders, nephropathy, neuropathy, as well as asthma. Studies stated that obese asthmatic subjects suffer from an increased risk of asthma, and encounter severe symptoms due to a number of pathophysiology. It is very vital to understand the copious relationship between obesity and asthma, however, a clear and pinpoint pathogenesis underlying the association between obesity and asthma is scarce. There is a plethora of obesity-asthma etiologies reported viz., increased circulating pro-inflammatory adipokines like leptin, resistin, and decreased anti-inflammatory adipokines like adiponectin, depletion of ROS controller Nrf2/HO-1 axis, nucleotide-binding domain, leucine-rich-containing family, pyrin domain-containing-3 (NLRP3) associated macrophage polarization, hypertrophy of WAT, activation of Notch signaling pathway, and dysregulated melanocortin pathway reported, however, there is a very limited number of reports that interrelates these pathophysiologies. Due to the underlying complex pathophysiologies exaggerated by obese conditions, obese asthmatics respond poorly to anti-asthmatic drugs. The poor response towards anti-asthmatic drugs may be due to the anti-asthmatics approach only that ignores the anti-obesity target. So, aiming only at the conventional anti-asthmatic targets in obese-asthmatics may prove to be futile until and unless treatment is directed towards ameliorating obesity pathogenesis for a holistic approach towards amelioration of obesity-associated asthma. Herbal medicines for obesity as well as obesity-associated comorbidities are fast becoming safer and more effective alternatives to conventional drugs due to their multitargeted approach with fewer adverse effects. Although, herbal medicines are widely used for obesity-associated comorbidities, however, a limited number of herbal medicines have been scientifically validated and reported against obesity-associated asthma. Notable among them are quercetin, curcumin, geraniol, resveratrol, β-Caryophyllene, celastrol, tomatidine to name a few. In view of this, there is a dire need for a comprehensive review that may summarize the role of bioactive phytoconstituents from different sources like plants, marine as well as essential oils in terms of their therapeutic mechanisms. So, this review aims to critically discuss the therapeutic role of herbal medicine in the form of bioactive phytoconstituents against obesity-associated asthma available in the scientific literature to date.

Intestinal mucus components and secretion mechanisms: what we do and do not know

Damage to the colon mucus barrier, the first line of defense against microorganisms, is an important determinant of intestinal diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease and colorectal cancer, and disorder in extraintestinal organs. The mucus layer has attracted the attention of the scientific community in recent years, and with the discovery of new mucosal components, it has become increasingly clear that the mucosal barrier is a complex system composed of many components. Moreover, certain components are jointly involved in regulating the structure and function of the mucus barrier. Therefore, a comprehensive and systematic understanding of the functional components of the mucus layer is clearly warranted. In this review, we summarize the various functional components of the mucus layer identified thus far and describe their unique roles in shaping mucosal structure and function. Furthermore, we detail the mechanisms underlying mucus secretion, including baseline and stimulated secretion. In our opinion, baseline secretion can be categorized into spontaneous Ca²⁺ oscillation-mediated slow and continuous secretion and stimulated secretion, which is mediated by massive Ca²⁺ influx induced by exogenous stimuli. This review extends the current understanding of the intestinal mucus barrier, with an emphasis on host defense strategies based on fortification of the mucus layer.

Resistin Contribution to Cardiovascular Risk in Chronic Kidney Disease Male Patients

BACKGROUND

Resistin is a molecule that belongs to the Resistin-Like Molecules family (RELMs), the group of proteins taking part in inflammatory processes. Increased resistin concentrations are observed in cardiovascular complications. Resistin contributes to the onset of atherosclerosis and intensifies the atherosclerotic processes. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between resistin and cardiovascular (CV) risk in men with chronic kidney disease (CKD) not treated with dialysis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred and forty-two men were included in the study: 99 men with eGFR lower than 60 mL/min/1.73 m² and 43 men with eGFR ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73 m². CV risk was assessed. Serum resistin, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) were measured among other biochemical parameters.

RESULTS

We observed that resistin concentrations were significantly higher in patients with CKD compared to individuals with eGFR ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73 m² (p = 0.003). In CKD, after estimating the general linear model (GLM), we found that resistin is associated with CV risk (p = 0.026) and PAI-1 serum concentrations (0.012). The relationship of PAI-1 with resistin depends on the level of CV risk in CKD (p = 0.048).

CONCLUSIONS

Resistin concentrations rise with the increase of CV risk in CKD patients and thus resistin may contribute to the progression of cardiovascular risk in this group of patients. The relationship between resistin and CV risk is modified by PAI-1 concentrations.

Human Resistin Induces Cardiac Dysfunction in Pulmonary Hypertension

Background Cardiac failure is the primary cause of death in most patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PH). As pleiotropic cytokines, human resistin (Hresistin) and its rodent homolog, resistin-like molecule α, are mechanistically critical to pulmonary vascular remodeling in PH. However, it is still unclear whether activation of these resistin-like molecules can directly cause PH-associated cardiac dysfunction and remodeling. Methods and Results In this study, we detected Hresistin protein in right ventricular (RV) tissue of patients with PH and elevated resistin-like molecule expression in RV tissues of rodents with RV hypertrophy and failure. In a humanized mouse model, cardiac-specific Hresistin overexpression was sufficient to cause cardiac dysfunction and remodeling. Dilated hearts exhibited reduced force development and decreased intracellular Ca2+ transients. In the RV tissues overexpressing Hresistin, the impaired contractility was associated with the suppression of protein kinase A and AMP-activated protein kinase. Mechanistically, Hresistin activation triggered the inflammation mediated by signaling of the key damage-associated molecular pattern molecule high-mobility group box 1, and subsequently induced pro-proliferative Ki67 in RV tissues of the transgenic mice. Intriguingly, an anti-Hresistin human antibody that we generated protected the myocardium from hypertrophy and failure in the rodent PH models. Conclusions Our data indicate that Hresistin is expressed in heart tissues and plays a role in the development of RV dysfunction and maladaptive remodeling through its immunoregulatory activities. Targeting this signaling to modulate cardiac inflammation may offer a promising strategy to treat PH-associated RV hypertrophy and failure in humans.

Artesunate inhibits airway remodeling in asthma via the MAPK signaling pathway

Background: Artesunate (ART), is a semi-synthetic water-soluble artemisinin derivative extracted from the plant Artemisia annua, which is often used to treating malaria. In vivo and in vitro studies suggested it may help decrease inflammation and attenuate airway remodeling in asthma. However, its underlying mechanism of action is not elucidated yet. Herein, an attempt is made to investigate the ART molecular mechanism in treating asthma.

Methods: The BALB/c female mice sensitized via ovalbumin (OVA) have been utilized to establish the asthma model, followed by carrying out ART interventions. Lung inflammation scores by Haematoxylin and Eosin (H&E), goblet cell hyperplasia grade by Periodic Acid-Schiff (PAS), and collagen fibers deposition by Masson trichrome staining have been utilized for evaluating how ART affected asthma. RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) analyses were performed to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The DEGs were analyzed by Gene Ontology (GO) terms, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways, and Protein-Protein interaction (PPI) function analyses. Hub clusters were found by Cytoscape MCODE. Subsequently, Real-Time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) verified the mRNA expression profiles of DEGs. Finally, immunohistochemistry (IHC) and western blots have validated the relevant genes and potential pathways.

Results: ART considerably attenuated inflammatory cell infiltration, mucus secretion, and collagen fibers deposition. KEGG pathway analysis revealed that the ART played a protective role via various pathways including the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway as one of them. Moreover, ART could alleviate the overexpression of found in inflammatory zone 1(FIZZ1) as revealed by IHC and Western blot analyses. ART attenuated OVA-induced asthma by downregulating phosphorylated p38 MAPK.

Conclusion: ART exerted a protective function in a multitarget and multi-pathway on asthma. FIZZ1 was a possible target for asthma airway remodeling. The MARK pathway was one of the key pathways by which ART protected against asthma.

Resistin-like molecules: a marker, mediator and therapeutic target for multiple diseases

Resistin-like molecules (RELMs) are highly cysteine-rich proteins, including RELMα, RELMβ, Resistin, and RELMγ. However, RELMs exhibit significant differences in structure, distribution, and function. The expression of RELMs is regulated by various signaling molecules, such as IL-4, IL-13, and their receptors. In addition, RELMs can mediate numerous signaling pathways, including HMGB1/RAGE, IL-4/IL-4Rα, PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathways, and so on. RELMs proteins are involved in wide range of physiological and pathological processes, including inflammatory response, cell proliferation, glucose metabolism, barrier defense, etc., and participate in the progression of numerous diseases such as lung diseases, intestinal diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and cancers. Meanwhile, RELMs can serve as biomarkers, risk predictors, and therapeutic targets for these diseases. An in-depth understanding of the role of RELMs may provide novel targets or strategies for the treatment and prevention of related diseases. Video abstract.

Resistin Modulates the Functional Activity of Colostral Macrophages from Mothers with Obesity and Diabetes

Background: Obesity and diabetes are major public health problems. Resistin is an adipokine that links the two diseases. There are few reports regarding colostrum cells and resistin from mothers with obesity and diabetes. Thus, this study aimed to determine the functional activity of macrophages present in the breast milk and colostrum of diabetic mothers with obesity and the effects of resistin on these cells. Methods: The women were divided according to BMI and glycemic status into normal weight non-diabetic, obese non-diabetic, normal weight type 2 diabetic, or obese type 2 diabetic groups. ELISA determined the resistin in colostrum. The cell subsets and apoptosis were determined by flow cytometry and the functional activity of cells by fluorescence microscopy. Results: The resistin levels were higher in the colostrum from diabetic mothers with obesity. The frequencies of CD14+ cells and cells expressing CD95+, independent of resistin treatment, were higher in the colostrum from diabetic mothers with obesity. The frequency of cells expressing CD14+CD95+ was higher in cells not treated with resistin in the colostrum from diabetic mothers with obesity. Apoptosis, irrespective of the presence of resistin, increased, whereas microbicidal activity decreased in cells from diabetic mothers with obesity. Conclusion: The data suggest that hyperglycemia associated with low-grade inflammation caused by obesity affects the percentage of cells expressing CD14+CD95+, death by apoptosis, and microbicidal indices; meanwhile, resistin restored the microbicidal activity of colostrum cells.

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

Background

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

Results

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

Conclusions

We observed that Telmisartan treatment improved metabolism, decreasing NAFLD.

Graphical Abstract

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

Evaluation of Potential Inflammatory Markers for Cystic Echinococcosis: P-selectin and Resistin

OBJECTIVE

Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is one of the most common zoonotic diseases worldwide. Diagnosis of CE is predominantly based on imaging techniques and serological tests are used in cases of non-characteristic imaging findings as diagnostic reference. However, serological test results cannot be completely reliable as they are affected by multi-factors. P-selectin and resistin are inflammatory markers that are altered during the acute stages of infection. In this purpose, inflammatory markers as P-selectin and resistin have been investigated for a potential diagnostic reference for CE diagnosis.

METHODS

A total of 60 patients who were diagnosed with CE and twenty-five healthy individuals were included in this study. Blood samples were obtained from all participants. Obtained sera were evaluated using the P-selectin and resistin ELISA kits for protein levels. Additionally, the relative expression of SELP (P-selectin) and RETN (resistin) genes were determined using the comparative CT (ΔΔCT) method between groups as CE patients with active and inactive cysts, CE patients and healthy controls.

RESULTS

SELP (13.9-fold change, p<0.05) and RETN (8.1-fold change, p<0.05) were differentially expressed in CE patients compared in the control group. Whereas resistin protein levels were significantly higher in CE patients than the healthy controls (p<0.001), the difference in P-selectin protein levels was not significant (p>0.05). There was no difference between active and inactive CE patients in terms of P-selectin and resistin in gene and protein levels (p>0.05).

CONCLUSION

Although there was no difference between the active and inactive CE patients, the good differentiation between the healthy controls and the CE patients suggested that resistin is a potential inflammatory diagnostic reference.

KSK-74: Dual Histamine H3 and Sigma-2 Receptor Ligand with Anti-Obesity Potential

Many studies involving compounds that enhance histamine release, such as histamine H₃ receptor (H₃R) antagonists, have shown efficacy in inhibiting weight gain, but none have passed clinical trials. As part of the search for H₃ receptor ligands that have additional properties, the aim of this study is to evaluate the activity in the reduction in weight gain in a rat model of excessive eating, as well as the impact on selected metabolic parameters, and the number and size of adipocytes of two new H₃R antagonists, KSK-60 and KSK-74, which also exert a significant affinity at the sigma-2 receptor. Compounds KSK-60 and KSK-74 are homologues and the elongation of the distal part of the molecule resulted in an approximate two-fold reduction in affinity at H₃R, but simultaneously an almost two-fold increase in affinity at the sigma-2 receptor. Animals fed palatable feed and receiving KSK-60 or KSK-74 both at 10 mg/kg b.w. gained significantly less weight than animals in the control obese group. Moreover, KSK-74 significantly compensated for metabolic disturbances that accompany obesity, such as an increase in plasma triglyceride, resistin, and leptin levels; improved glucose tolerance; and protected experimental animals against adipocyte hypertrophy. Furthermore, KSK-74 inhibited the development of inflammation in obesity-exposed adipose tissue. The in vivo pharmacological activity of the tested ligands appears to correlate with the affinity at the sigma-2 receptors; however, the explanation of this phenomenon requires further and extended research.

ATP7A, ATP7B, and RETN genotypes in Labrador Retrievers with and without copper-associated hepatopathy

OBJECTIVE

To determine the frequency of previously reported coding variants in the ATP7A, ATP7B, and RETN genes in a US population of Labrador Retrievers and to explore potential associations of these genotypes with pathologic hepatic copper accumulation.

SAMPLE

Archived hepatic specimens from 90 Labrador Retrievers collected between 2013 and 2021.

PROCEDURES

The Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory database was searched to identify archived tissues from Labrador Retrievers that had undergone hepatic histopathologic assessment. Cases were classified into control, copper-associated hepatopathy (CAH), and intermediate populations on the basis of histopathologic features and hepatic copper accumulation. The DNA was extracted from archived tissues and genotyped for reported variants in the 3 genes. Allele frequencies were determined, and associations of genotypes with CAH status were evaluated.

RESULTS

29 control dogs, 45 CAH dogs, and 16 intermediate dogs were included in the study. The overall ATP7A and RETN variant allele frequencies were 30% and 13%, respectively, and were not significantly different among control, CAH, and intermediate populations. The ATP7B variant allele frequency was significantly higher in the CAH population (30%) as compared to the control population (13%). However, 21 of 45 (47%) CAH dogs did not have an ATP7B variant allele whereas 7 of 28 (25%) control dogs did have an ATP7B variant allele.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Study results supported a contributory role for the ATP7B variant in CAH pathogenesis in Labrador Retrievers. However, the application of genetic testing in a clinical setting is complicated by genotypic variability within healthy and diseased dogs.

Resistin and Cardiovascular Disease: A Review of the Current Literature Regarding Clinical and Pathological Relationships

Serum resistin, mainly secreted by the bone marrow, monocytes, and macrophages, contributes to many processes, including endothelial dysfunction, Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell (VSMC) proliferation, and atherothrombosis demonstrating effects on the development of hypertension and Coronary Artery Disease (CAD). Previously published clinical studies have shown that plasma resistin levels are significantly associated with cardiovascular disease risk factors and adverse clinical outcomes associated with the condition. Resistin is associated with vascular smooth muscle cell dysfunction in vitro, most plausibly due to its relationship with oxidative stress in advanced atherosclerosis whereas in vivo studies have shown resistin to be associated with intimal hyperplasia. We aimed to summarize the role of resistin on cardiovascular disease (CVD), as we could not find any review focused on the role of resistin on CVD.

Response biomarkers of inhalation exposure to cigarette smoke in the mouse lung

Cigarette smoking is known to increase the risk of cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In this study, we evaluated the effects of short-term nose-only inhalation exposure to cigarette smoke in mice. Male 10-week-old C57BL mice were exposed to clean air (control) or mainstream cigarette smoke for 1 h/day, 5 days/week, for 2 or 4 weeks. Exposure to cigarette smoke increased the number of inflammatory cells, especially neutrophils, in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, increased inflammatory cell infiltration foci, and caused an increase in the thickness of the peripheral bronchial epithelium. Microarray gene expression analysis indicated that smoke exposure induced inflammatory responses, including leukocyte migration and activation of phagocytes and myeloid cells, as early as two weeks after the initiation of exposure. Importantly, chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 17, resistin-like alpha, and lipocalin 2 were upregulated and may serve as useful markers of the toxic effects of exposure to cigarette smoke before pulmonary histological changes become evident.

LKB1 deficiency upregulates RELM-α to drive airway goblet cell metaplasia

Targeting airway goblet cell metaplasia is a novel strategy that can potentially reduce the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) symptoms. Tumor suppressor liver kinase B1 (LKB1) is an important regulator of the proliferation and differentiation of stem/progenitor cells. In this study, we report that LKB1 expression was downregulated in the lungs of patients with COPD and in those of cigarette smoke-exposed mice. Nkx2.1^Cre; Lkb1^f/f mice with conditional loss of Lkb1 in mouse lung epithelium displayed airway mucus hypersecretion and pulmonary macrophage infiltration. Single-cell transcriptomic analysis of the lung tissues from Nkx2.1^Cre; Lkb1^f/f mice further revealed that airway goblet cell differentiation was altered in the absence of LKB1. An organoid culture study demonstrated that Lkb1 deficiency in mouse airway (club) progenitor cells promoted the expression of FIZZ1/RELM-α, which drove airway goblet cell differentiation and pulmonary macrophage recruitment. Additionally, monocyte-derived macrophages in the lungs of Nkx2.1^Cre; Lkb1^f/f mice exhibited an alternatively activated M2 phenotype, while expressing RELM-α, which subsequently aggravated airway goblet cell metaplasia. Our findings suggest that the LKB1-mediated crosstalk between airway progenitor cells and macrophages regulates airway goblet cell metaplasia. Moreover, our data suggest that LKB1 agonists might serve as a potential therapeutic option to treat respiratory disorders associated with goblet cell metaplasia.

Differential Expression of Mitosis and Cell Cycle Regulatory Genes during Recovery from an Acute Respiratory Virus Infection

Acute respiratory virus infections can have profound and long-term effects on lung function that persist even after the acute responses have fully resolved. In this study, we examined gene expression by RNA sequencing in the lung tissue of wild-type BALB/c mice that were recovering from a sublethal infection with the pneumonia virus of mice (PVM), a natural rodent pathogen of the same virus family and genus as the human respiratory syncytial virus. We compared these responses to gene expression in PVM-infected mice treated with Lactobacillus plantarum, an immunobiotic agent that limits inflammation and averts the negative clinical sequelae typically observed in response to acute infection with this pathogen. Our findings revealed prominent differential expression of inflammation-associated genes as well as numerous genes and gene families implicated in mitosis and cell-cycle regulation, including cyclins, cyclin-dependent kinases, cell division cycle genes, E2F transcription factors, kinesins, centromere proteins, and aurora kinases, among others. Of particular note was the differential expression of the cell division cycle gene Cdc20b, which was previously identified as critical for the ex vivo differentiation of multi-ciliated cells. Collectively, these findings provided us with substantial insight into post-viral repair processes and broadened our understanding of the mechanisms underlying Lactobacillus-mediated protection.

FIZZ2 as a Biomarker for Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

PURPOSE

Found in inflammatory zone 2 (FIZZ2) is associated with lung inflammation. The aim of the study was to investigate the expression and utility of FIZZ2 as a marker for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

METHODS

Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the expression of FIZZ2 in COPD. The serum concentration of FIZZ2 was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and the episodes of acute exacerbations of COPD (AECOPD) in the following year were recorded.

RESULTS

FIZZ2 expression was elevated in bronchial epithelial cells (0.217 ± 0.021 vs 0.099 ± 0.010, p < 0.0001) and negatively correlated with the pulmonary function (FEV1/FVC%) (p = 0.0149) and positively correlated with the smoking index (p = 0.0241). Serum level of FIZZ2 in COPD were significantly higher than that in healthy controls (561.6 ± 70.71 vs 52.24 ± 20.52 pg/ml, p < 0.0001) and increased with the COPD severity. Serum levels of FIZZ2 negatively correlated with the pulmonary function [Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), Forced Expiratory Volume (FEV1), FEV1%, FEV1/FVC) (r =  - 0.3086, - 0.3529, - 0.3343, and - 0.2676, respectively, p = 0.0003, p < 0.0001, p < 0.0001, p = 0.0014). The expression of human serum FIZZ2 was positively correlated with the smoking index (r = 0.2749, p = 0.0015). There was a positive correlation between the FIZZ2 concentration and the frequency of AECOPD episodes in the following year (r = 0.7291, p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

FIZZ2 expression was elevated in patients with COPD and its serum concentration might be a potential biomarker for AECOPD.

The interplay between statins and adipokines. Is this another explanation of statins' 'pleiotropic' effects?

Statin therapy comprises an integral part of secondary and to a lesser extent of primary cardiovascular disease prevention. This is attributed not only to their lipid-lowering properties, but as well to a plethora of pleiotropic actions. Recently, the cytokines secreted by adipose tissue, the so-called adipokines, have been proved to play a critical role in various pathophysiological functions, among which inflammation and atherosclerosis development and vulnerability. The aim of this literature review was to summarize the effects of statins and the underlying mechanisms on the circulating levels of the most common adipokines regulating atherosclerosis process, as a part of their pleiotropic function. Up to now, robust evidence implicates a significant statin-induced reduction of pro-inflammatory adipokines IL-6, TNF-a and visfatin. Weak evidence from limited, small and mostly non-randomized studies suggest increased levels of anti-inflammatory adipokines apelin, vaspin and omentin-1 after statin therapy. In the rest of most known adipokines, statins have shown either controversial (adiponectin, retinol binding protein-4 and fetuin-A) or negligible effects (leptin and resistin) on their circulating levels. Therefore, statins may favourably alter the balance of inflammatory/anti-inflammatory adipokines, implicating a novel atheroprotective mechanism. However, the interplay between statins and adipokines is still not fully elucidated and its potential clinical relevance is warranted.

The Inflammatory Response Induced by RELMβ Upregulates IL-8 and IL-1β Expression in Bronchial Epithelial Cells in COPD

Purpose

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is associated with a complex inflammatory regulatory network. Resistin-like molecule β (RELMβ) is highly expressed in the lungs of COPD patients. We aimed to investigate the proinflammatory effect of RELMβ on airway epithelial cells in COPD.

Methods

First, a GEO dataset was used to analyze the expression of the RELMβ gene in the COPD and control groups as well as the protein levels of RELMβ in the sera of outpatients with COPD and normal control subjects in our hospital. We also stimulated 16HBE bronchial epithelial cells with recombinant RELMβ protein and analyzed the expression of IL-8 and IL-1β. We upregulated and downregulated the gene expression of RELMβ in 16HBE cells and analyzed the expression of the inflammatory cytokines IL-8 and IL-1β. In addition, we also examined the mechanism by which the p38 MAPK signaling pathway contributed to the regulation of IL-8 and IL-1β expression by RELMβ.

Results

RELMβ expression was increased in COPD tissues in different data sets and in the serum of COPD patients in our hospital. IL-8 and IL-1β expression was also increased in COPD tissues with high RELMβ gene expression in different data sets. The RELMβ gene was mainly related to inflammatory factors and inflammatory signaling pathways in the PPI regulatory network. Experiments at the cellular level showed that RELMβ promoted the expression of the inflammatory cytokines IL-8 and IL-1β, and this regulation was mediated by the p38 MAPK signaling pathway.

Conclusion

RELMβ can promote the expression of the inflammatory cytokines IL-8 and IL-1β in bronchial epithelial cells of patients with COPD and exert inflammatory effects. RELMβ may be a potential target for the treatment of COPD.

Is resistin the master link between inflammation and inflammation-related chronic diseases?

Resistin has been firstly discovered in mice and was identified as an adipose tissue-secreted hormone or adipokine linking obesity and insulin resistance. In humans, resistin has been characterized as a hormone expressed and secreted by Immune cells especially by macrophages, and was linked to many inflammatory responses including inflammation of adipose tissue due to macrophages' infiltration. Human and mouse resistin display sequence and structural similarities and also dissimilarities that could explain their different expression pattern. In mice, strong pieces of evidence clearly associated high resistin plasma levels to obesity and insulin resistance suggesting that resistin could play an important role in the onset and progression of obesity and insulin resistance via resistin-induced inflammation. In humans, the link between resistin and obesity/insulin resistance is still a matter of debate and needs more epidemiological studies. Also, resistin has been linked to other chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases and cancers where resistin has been proposed in many studies as a biological marker.

Resistin: A journey from metabolism to cancer

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

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

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

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

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

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

Macrophage-Regulatory T Cell Interactions Promote Type 2 Immune Homeostasis Through Resistin-Like Molecule α

RELMα is a small, secreted protein expressed by type 2 cytokine-activated “M2” macrophages in helminth infection and allergy. At steady state and in response to type 2 cytokines, RELMα is highly expressed by peritoneal macrophages, however, its function in the serosal cavity is unclear. In this study, we generated RELMα TdTomato (Td) reporter/knockout (Rα^Td) mice and investigated RELMα function in IL-4 complex (IL-4c)-induced peritoneal inflammation. We first validated the RELMα^Td/Td transgenic mice and showed that IL-4c injection led to the significant expansion of large peritoneal macrophages that expressed Td but not RELMα protein, while RELMα^+/+ mice expressed RELMα and not Td. Functionally, RELMα^Td/Td mice had increased IL-4 induced peritoneal macrophage responses and splenomegaly compared to RELMα^+/+ mice. Gene expression analysis indicated that RELMα^Td/Td peritoneal macrophages were more proliferative and activated than RELMα^+/+ macrophages, with increased genes associated with T cell responses, growth factor and cytokine signaling, but decreased genes associated with differentiation and maintenance of myeloid cells. We tested the hypothesis that Rα^Td/Td macrophages drive aberrant T cell activation using peritoneal macrophage and T cell co-culture. There were no differences in CD4⁺ T cell effector responses when co-cultured with RELMα^+/+ or RELMα^Td/Td macrophages, however, RELMα^Td/Td macrophages were impaired in their ability to sustain proliferation of FoxP3⁺ regulatory T cells (Treg). Supportive of the in vitro results, immunofluorescent staining of the spleens revealed significantly decreased FoxP3⁺ cells in the RELMα^Td/Td spleens compared to RELMα^+/+ spleens. Taken together, these studies identify a new RELMα regulatory pathway whereby RELMα-expressing macrophages directly sustain Treg proliferation to limit type 2 inflammatory responses.

Hypoxia-Induced Mitogenic Factor: A Multifunctional Protein Involved in Health and Disease

Hypoxia-induced mitogenic factor (HIMF), also known as resistin-like molecule α (RELMα) or found in inflammatory zone 1 (FIZZ1) is a member of the RELM protein family expressed in mice. It is involved in a plethora of physiological processes, including mitogenesis, angiogenesis, inflammation, and vasoconstriction. HIMF expression can be stimulated under pathological conditions and this plays a critical role in pulmonary, cardiovascular and metabolic disorders. The present review summarizes the molecular characteristics, and the physiological and pathological roles of HIMF in normal and diseased conditions. The potential clinical significance of these findings for human is also discussed.

Resistin, a Novel Host Defense Peptide of Innate Immunity

Resistin, a cysteine-rich protein, expressed in adipocytes, was initially proposed as a link between obesity and diabetes in mice. In humans, resistin is considered to be a pro-inflammatory molecule expressed in immune cells, which plays a regulatory role in many chronic inflammatory diseases, metabolic diseases, infectious diseases, and cancers. However, increasing evidence shows that resistin functions as a host defense peptide of innate immunity, in terms of its wide-spectrum anti-microbial activity, modulation of immunity, and limitation of microbial product-induced inflammation. To date, the understanding of resistin participating in host defense mechanism is still limited. The review aims to summarize current knowledge about the biological properties, functions, and related mechanisms of resistin in host defense, which provides new insights into the pleiotropic biological function of resistin and yields promising strategies for developing new antimicrobial therapeutic agents.

The adipokine Retnla deficiency increases responsiveness to cardiac repair through adiponectin-rich bone marrow cells

Resistin-like alpha (Retnla) is a member of the resistin family and known to modulate fibrosis and inflammation. Here, we investigated the role of Retnla in the cardiac injury model. Myocardial infarction (MI) was induced in wild type (WT), Retnla knockout (KO), and Retnla transgenic (TG) mice. Cardiac function was assessed by echocardiography and was significantly preserved in the KO mice, while worsened in the TG group. Angiogenesis was substantially increased in the KO mice, and cardiomyocyte apoptosis was markedly suppressed in the KO mice. By Retnla treatment, the expression of p21 and the ratio of Bax to Bcl2 were increased in cardiomyocytes, while decreased in cardiac fibroblasts. Interestingly, the numbers of cardiac macrophages and unsorted bone marrow cells (UBCs) were higher in the KO mice than in the WT mice. Besides, phosphorylated histone H3(+) cells were more frequent in bone marrow of KO mice. Moreover, adiponectin in UBCs was notably higher in the KO mice compared with WT mice. In an adoptive transfer study, UBCs were isolated from KO mice to transplant to the WT infarcted heart. Cardiac function was better in the KO-UBCs transplanted group in the WT-UBCs transplanted group. Taken together, proliferative and adiponectin-rich bone marrow niche was associated with substantial cardiac recovery by suppression of cardiac apoptosis and proliferation of cardiac fibroblast.

The Role of Hypoxia-Induced Mitogenic Factor in Organ-Specific Inflammation in the Lung and Liver: Key Concepts and Gaps in Knowledge Regarding Molecular Mechanisms of Acute or Immune-Mediated Liver Injury

Hypoxia-induced mitogenic factor (HIMF), which is also known as resistin-like molecule α (RELM-α), found in inflammatory zone 1 (FIZZ1), or resistin-like alpha (retlna), is a cysteine-rich secretory protein and cytokine. HIMF has been investigated in the lung as a mediator of pulmonary fibrosis, inflammation and as a marker for alternatively activated macrophages. Although these macrophages have been found to have a role in acute liver injury and acetaminophen toxicity, few studies have investigated the role of HIMF in acute or immune-mediated liver injury. The aim of this focused review is to analyze the literature and examine the effects of HIMF and its human homolog in organ-specific inflammation in the lung and liver. We followed the guidelines set by PRISMA in constructing this review. The relevant checklist items from PRISMA were included. Items related to meta-analysis were excluded because there were no randomized controlled clinical trials. We found that HIMF was increased in most models of acute liver injury and reduced damage from acetaminophen-induced liver injury. We also found strong evidence for HIMF as a marker for alternatively activated macrophages. Our overall risk of bias assessment of all studies included revealed that 80% of manuscripts demonstrated some concerns in the randomization process. We also demonstrated some concerns (54.1%) and high risk (45.9%) of bias in the selection of the reported results. The need for randomization and reduction of bias in the reported results was similarly detected in the studies that focused on HIMF and the liver. In conclusion, we propose that HIMF could be utilized as a marker for M2 macrophages in immune-mediated liver injury. However, we also detected the need for randomized clinical trials and additional experimental and human prospective studies in order to fully comprehend the role of HIMF in acute or immune-mediated liver injury.

Resistin-like molecule β acts as a mitogenic factor in hypoxic pulmonary hypertension via the Ca2+-dependent PI3K/Akt/mTOR and PKC/MAPK signaling pathways

Background

Pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cell (PASMC) proliferation plays a crucial role in hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension (HPH). Previous studies have found that resistin-like molecule β (RELM-β) is upregulated de novo in response to hypoxia in cultured human PASMCs (hPASMCs). RELM-β has been reported to promote hPASMC proliferation and is involved in pulmonary vascular remodeling in patients with PAH. However, the expression pattern, effects, and mechanisms of action of RELM-β in HPH remain unclear.

Methods

We assessed the expression pattern, mitogenetic effect, and mechanism of action of RELM-β in a rat HPH model and in hPASMCs.

Results

Overexpression of RELM-β caused hemodynamic changes in a rat model of HPH similar to those induced by chronic hypoxia, including increased mean right ventricular systolic pressure (mRVSP), right ventricular hypertrophy index (RVHI) and thickening of small pulmonary arterioles. Knockdown of RELM-β partially blocked the increases in mRVSP, RVHI, and vascular remodeling induced by hypoxia. The phosphorylation levels of the PI3K, Akt, mTOR, PKC, and MAPK proteins were significantly up- or downregulated by RELM-β gene overexpression or silencing, respectively. Recombinant RELM-β protein increased the intracellular Ca²⁺ concentration in primary cultured hPASMCs and promoted hPASMC proliferation. The mitogenic effects of RELM-β on hPASMCs and the phosphorylation of PI3K, Akt, mTOR, PKC, and MAPK were suppressed by a Ca²⁺ inhibitor.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that RELM-β acts as a cytokine-like growth factor in the development of HPH and that the effects of RELM-β are likely to be mediated by the Ca²⁺-dependent PI3K/Akt/mTOR and PKC/MAPK pathways.

Estimation of Proinflammatory Factors in the Saliva of Adult Patients with Cystic Fibrosis and Dental Caries

Introduction: The available literature lacks data regarding the levels of resistin, lysozyme, lactoferrin, α-amylase activity, pH, and saliva buffer capacity, as well as oral health and hygiene in the group of adult patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). The aim of the research was to assess the selected saliva parameters in patients diagnosed with cystic fibrosis. Materials and methods: Examined group was composed of 40 patients diagnosed with CF, while the control group of 40 healthy individuals. Both groups underwent the same scheme of the assessment (DMT index, salivary pH, buffer capacity, analysis of total sialic acid, total protein estimation, lysozyme levels estimation, lactofferin levels measurement, α-amylase activity, estimation of the levels of resistin and TNF-α). Results: In the examined group, there were higher values of decayed teeth as well as values of sialic acid, total protein, lactoferrin, α-amylase, and TNF-α. However, mean lysozyme, and resistin levels, as well as pH and buffer capacity of the saliva, were lower. Conclusions: New diagnostic methods, including the evaluation of selected salivary biochemical parameters, may indicate the existence of factors predisposing to severe tooth decay in the study group. Appropriate preventive treatment to combat dental caries in adult patients with CF will significantly improve their comfort and life expectancy.

Potential functions of embryonic cardiac macrophages in angiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis and extracellular matrix remodeling

The role of cardiac tissue macrophages (cTMs) during pre- and postnatal developmental stages remains in many aspects unknown. We aimed to characterize cTM populations and their potential functions based on surface markers. Our in situ studies of immunostained cardiac tissue specimens of murine fetuses (from E11to E17) revealed that a significant number of embryonic cTMs (phenotyped by CD45, CD68, CD64, F4/80, CD11b, CD206, Lyve-1) resided mostly in the subepicardial space, not in the entire myocardial wall, as observed in adult individuals. cTMs accompanied newly developed blood and lymphatic vessels adhering to vessel walls by cellular processes. A subpopulation of CD68-positive cells was found to form accumulations in areas of massive apoptosis during the outflow tract remodeling and shortening. Flow cytometry analysis at E14 and E17 stages revealed newly defined three subpopulations:CD64^low, CD64^highCD206-and CD64^highCD206+. The levels of mRNA expression for genes related to regulation of angiogenesis (VEGFa, VEGFb, VEGFc, bFGF), lymphangiogenesis (VEGFc) and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling (MMP13, Arg1, Ym1/Chil3, Retlna/FIZZ1) differed among the selected populations and/or embryonic stages. Our results demonstrate a diversity of embryonic cTMs and their tissue-specific locations, suggesting their various potential roles in regulating angiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis and ECM remodeling.

Investigation of Genetic Modifiers of Copper Toxicosis in Labrador Retrievers

Copper toxicosis is a complex genetic disorder in Labrador retrievers characterized by hepatic copper accumulation eventually leading to liver cirrhosis. The variation of hepatic copper levels in Labrador retrievers has been partly explained by mutations in ATP7A c.980C>T and ATP7B c.4358G>A. To further elucidate the genetic background of this disease, we used targeted Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) in a cohort of 95 Labrador retrievers to analyze 72 potential modifier genes for variations associated with hepatic copper levels. Variants associated with copper levels were subsequently evaluated in a replication cohort of 144 Labrador retrievers. A total of 44 variants in 25 different genes were identified, of which four showed significant association with copper levels. Of the four variants found associated with hepatic copper levels in the NGS cohort, one was validated in the replication cohort. The non-reference allele of the variant NC_006602.3.g.52434480C>T in RETN resulting in amino-acid change p.Leu7Phe was associated with decreased hepatic copper levels. In humans, resistin is associated with severity of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, fibrosis, cirrhosis and mitochondrial dysfunction in hepatocytes. Further studies are needed to investigate the biological function of RETN p.Leu7Phe in the development of copper toxicosis in Labrador retrievers.

Systemic hypoxia mimicry enhances axonal regeneration and functional recovery following peripheral nerve injury

Despite the ability of peripheral nerves to regenerate after injury, failure occurs due to an inability of supporting cells to maintain growth, resulting in long-term consequences such as sensorimotor dysfunction and neuropathic pain. Here, we investigate the potential of engaging the cellular adaptive response to hypoxia, via inhibiting its negative regulators, to enhance the regenerative process. Under normoxic conditions, prolyl hydroxylase domain (PHD) proteins 1, 2, and 3 hydroxylate the key metabolic regulator hypoxia inducible factor 1α (HIF1α), marking it for subsequent proteasomal degradation. We inhibited PHD protein function systemically via either individual genetic deletion or pharmacological pan-PHD inhibition using dimethyloxalylglycine (DMOG). We show enhanced axonal regeneration after sciatic nerve crush injury in PHD1^-/- mice, PHD3^-/- mice, and in DMOG-treated mice, and in PHD1^-/- and DMOG-treated mice a reduction in hypersensitivity to cooling after permanent sciatic ligation. Electromyographically, PHD1^-/- and PHD3^-/- mice showed an increased CMAP amplitude one-month post-injury, probably due to protection against denervation induced muscle atrophy, while DMOG-treated and PHD2^+/- mice showed reduced latencies, indicating improved motor axon function. DMOG treatment did not affect the growth of dorsal root ganglion neurites in vitro, suggesting a lack of direct effects of DMOG on axonal regrowth. Enhanced regeneration in vivo was concurrent with an increase in macrophage density, and a shift in macrophage polarization state ratios (from M1-like toward M2-like) in DMOG-treated animals. These results indicate PHD proteins as a novel therapeutic target to improve regenerative and functional outcomes after peripheral nerve injury without manipulating molecular O₂.

Novel therapeutic intervention of coenzyme Q10 and its combination with pioglitazone on the mRNA expression level of adipocytokines in diabetic rats

AIMS

Aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of co-administration coenzyme Q10 and pioglitazone on the mRNA expression of adipocytokines in white adipose tissues of chemically induced type 2 diabetes mellitus in rats.

MAIN METHODS

Diabetes was induced by administration of streptozotocin (65 mg/kg, i.p.), followed by nicotinamide (110 mg/kg, i.p.) 15 min later. The diabetic rats were treated coenzyme Q10 (Q10, 10 mg/kg, p.o.) or pioglitazone (PIO, 20 mg/kg, p.o.) alone and their combination for four weeks. Biochemical parameters like FBS level, insulin and HbA1c along with tissue levels of MDA, SOD, CAT and GSH were estimated. The mRNA levels of ADIPOQ, RBP4, RETN, IL-6 and TNF-α in White Adipose Tissue (WAT) were measured.

KEY FINDINGS

Treatment with Q10 + PIO showed a significant reduction in the levels of FBS, HbA1c and a significant increase in insulin levels as compared to normal control group. Additionally, there was a significant change in the levels of biomarkers of oxidative stress after treatment with Q10 + PIO as compared to streptozotocin-nicotinamide group. Treatment with Q10 + PIO also significantly altered the mRNA expression of ADIPOQ, RETN, IL-6 and TNF-α when compared to monotherapy. However, mRNA expression of RBP4 did not alter in Q10 + PIO treated animal as compared to Q10 or PIO alone.

SIGNIFICANCE

It is concluded that co-administration of Q10 and PIO has been shown the better therapeutic effect on the mRNA expression of adipocytokines and oxidative stress parameters as compared to either Q10 or PIO.

Systemic evaluation and localization of resistin expression in normal human tissues by a newly developed monoclonal antibody

Resistin and resistin-like molecules are pleiotropic cytokines that are involved in inflammatory diseases. Our previous work suggested that resistin has the potential to be used as a biomarker and therapeutic target for human pulmonary arterial hypertension. However, data are limited on the distribution of resistin in healthy human organs. In this study, we used our newly developed anti-human resistin (hResistin) antibody to immunohistochemically detect the expression, localization, and intracellular/extracellular compartmentalization of hResistin in a full human tissue panel from healthy individuals. The potential cross reactivity of this monoclonal anti-hResistin IgG1 with normal human tissues also was verified. Results showed that hResistin is broadly distributed and principally localized in the cytoplasmic granules of macrophages scattered in the interstitium of most human tissues. Bone marrow hematopoietic precursor cells also exhibited hResistin signals in their cytoplasmic granules. Additionally, hResistin labeling was observed in the cytoplasm of nervous system cells. Notably, the cytokine activity of hResistin was illustrated by positively stained extracellular material in most human tissues. These data indicate that our generated antibody binds to the secreted hResistin and support its potential use for immunotherapy to reduce circulating hResistin levels in human disease. Our findings comprehensively document the basal expression patterns of hResistin protein in normal human tissues, suggest a critical role of this cytokine in normal and pathophysiologic inflammatory processes, and offer key insights for using our antibody in future pharmacokinetic studies and immunotherapeutic strategies.

Pulmonary Involvement in a Mouse Model of Sjögren's Syndrome Induced by STING Activation

Sjögren's Syndrome (SS), a chronic autoimmune disorder affecting multiple organ systems, is characterized by an elevated type I interferon (IFN) response. Activation of Stimulator of Interferon Genes (STING) protein induces type I IFN and in mice, several features of SS, including anti-nuclear antibodies, sialadenitis, and salivary gland dysfunction. Since lung involvement occurs in one-fifth of SS patients, we investigated whether systemic activation of STING also leads to lung inflammation. Lungs from female C57BL/6 mice injected with the STING agonist 5, 6-Dimethylxanthenone-4-acetic acid (DMXAA), were evaluated for acute and chronic inflammatory responses. Within 4h of DMXAA injection, the expression of Ifnb1, Il6, Tnf, Ifng, and Mx1 was significantly upregulated. At 1 and 2 months post-treatment, lungs showed lymphocytic infiltration in the peri-bronchial regions. The lungs from DMXAA treated mice showed an increased expression of multiple chemokines and an increase in lymphatic endothelial cells. Despite STING expression in bronchial epithelium and cells lining the alveolar wall, bone marrow chimeras between STING knockout and wild type mice showed that STING expression in hematopoietic cells was critical for lung inflammation. Our results suggest that activation of the STING pathway might be involved in SS patients with concomitant salivary gland and lung disease.

Resistin family proteins in pulmonary diseases

The family of resistin-like molecules (RELMs) consists of four members in rodents (RELMα/FIZZ1/HIMF, RELMβ/FIZZ2, Resistin/FIZZ3, and RELMγ/FIZZ4) and two members in humans (Resistin and RELMβ), all of which exhibit inflammation-regulating, chemokine, and growth factor properties. The importance of these cytokines in many aspects of physiology and pathophysiology, especially in cardiothoracic diseases, is rapidly evolving in the literature. In this review article, we attempt to summarize the contribution of RELM signaling to the initiation and progression of lung diseases, such as pulmonary hypertension, asthma/allergic airway inflammation, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, fibrosis, cancers, infection, and other acute lung injuries. The potential of RELMs to be used as biomarkers or risk predictors of these diseases also will be discussed. Better understanding of RELM signaling in the pathogenesis of pulmonary diseases may offer novel targets or approaches for the development of therapeutics to treat or prevent a variety of inflammation, tissue remodeling, and fibrosis-related disorders in respiratory, cardiovascular, and other systems.

RELMα is Induced in Airway Epithelial Cells by Oncostatin M Without Requirement of STAT6 or IL-6 in Mouse Lungs In Vivo

Resistin-like molecule alpha (RELMα) and YM-1 are secreted proteins implicated in murine models of alternatively activated macrophage (AA/M2) accumulation and Th2-skewed inflammation. Since the gp130 cytokine Oncostatin M (OSM) induces a Th2-like cytokine and AA/M2 skewed inflammation in mouse lung, we here investigated regulation of RELMα and YM-1. Transient pulmonary overexpression of OSM by Adenovirus vector (AdOSM) markedly induced RELMα and YM-1 protein expression in total lung. In situ hybridization showed that RELMα mRNA was highly induced in airway epithelial cells (AEC) and was co-expressed with CD68 mRNA in some but not all CD68+ cells in parenchyma. IL-6 overexpression (a comparator gp130 cytokine) induced RELMα, but at significantly lower levels. IL-6 (assessing IL-6^-/- mice) was not required, nor was STAT6 (IL-4/13 canonical signalling) for AdOSM-induction of RELMα in AEC. AEC responded directly to OSM in vitro as assessed by pSTAT3 activation. RELMα-deficient mice showed similar inflammatory cell infiltration and cytokine responses to wt in response to AdOSM, but showed less accumulation of CD206+ AA/M2 macrophages, reduced induction of extracellular matrix gene mRNAs for COL1A1, COL3A1, MMP13, and TIMP1, and reduced parenchymal alpha smooth muscle actin. Thus, RELMα is regulated by OSM in AEC and contributes to extracellular matrix remodelling in mouse lung.

The Network of Colonic Host Defense Peptides as an Innate Immune Defense Against Enteropathogenic Bacteria

Host defense peptides, abundantly secreted by colonic epithelial cells and leukocytes, are proposed to be critical components of an innate immune response in the colon against enteropathogenic bacteria, including Shigella spp., Salmonella spp., Clostridium difficile, and attaching and effacing Escherichia coli and Citrobacter rodentium. These short cationic peptides are bactericidal against both Gram-positive and -negative enteric pathogens, but may also exert killing effects on intestinal luminal microbiota. Simultaneously, these peptides modulate numerous cellular responses crucial for gut defenses, including leukocyte chemotaxis and migration, wound healing, cytokine production, cell proliferation, and pathogen sensing. This review discusses recent advances in our understanding of expression, mechanisms of action and microbicidal and immunomodulatory functions of major colonic host defense peptides, namely cathelicidins, β-defensins, and members of the Regenerating islet-derived protein III (RegIII) and Resistin-like molecule (RELM) families. In a theoretical framework where these peptides work synergistically, aspects of pathogenesis of infectious colitis reviewed herein uncover roles of host defense peptides aimed to promote epithelial defenses and prevent pathogen colonization, mediated through a combination of direct antimicrobial function and fine-tuning of host immune response and inflammation. This interactive host defense peptide network may decode how the intestinal immune system functions to quickly clear infections, restore homeostasis and avoid damaging inflammation associated with pathogen persistence during infectious colitis. This information is of interest in development of host defense peptides (either alone or in combination with reduced doses of antibiotics) as antimicrobial and immunomodulatory therapeutics for controlling infectious colitis.

RELMα-expressing macrophages protect against fatal lung damage and reduce parasite burden during helminth infection

Alternatively activated macrophages (AAMs) can contribute to wound healing, regulation of glucose and fat metabolism, resolution of inflammation, and protective immunity against helminths. Their differentiation, tissue distribution, and effector functions are incompletely understood. Murine AAMs express high levels of resistin-like molecule (RELM) α, an effector protein with potent immunomodulatory functions. To visualize RELMα⁺ macrophages (MΦs) in vivo and evaluate their role in defense against helminths, we generated RELMα reporter/deleter mice. Infection with the helminth Nippostrongylus brasiliensis induced expansion of RELMα⁺ lung interstitial but not alveolar MΦs in a STAT6-dependent manner. RELMα⁺ MΦs were required for prevention of fatal lung damage during primary infection. Furthermore, protective immunity was lost upon specific deletion of RELMα⁺ MΦs during secondary infection. Thus, RELMα reporter/deleter mice reveal compartmentalization of AAMs in different tissues and demonstrate their critical role in resolution of severe lung inflammation and protection against migrating helminths.

Resistin in metabolism, inflammation, and disease

Resistin is a small secretory protein that has a pleiotropic role in rodents and humans. Both rodent resistin and human resistin have an extremely stable and high-order multimeric structure. Moreover, there is significant variation in the source of secretion and the diversity of functions of resistin. Mouse resistin resists insulin action and contributes to type 2 diabetes mellitus, while human resistin plays a role in inflammation and also functions as a small accessory chaperone. Currently, active research in the area identified a significant role for resistin in stress biology and as a biomarker in diagnostics to evaluate disease status and treatment outcome. This review summarizes recent developments within resistin biology including their association with obesity, inflammation, stress response mechanisms, and its role in clinical diagnostics.

Cardiovascular responses produced by resistin injected into paraventricular nucleus mediated by the glutamatergic and CRFergic transmissions within rostral ventrolateral medulla

OBJECTIVES

Resistin, as a 12.5 kDa cysteine-rich polypeptide, is expressed in hypothalamus and regulates sympathetic nerve activity. It is associated with obesity, metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular diseases. In this study, we investigated the neural pathway of cardiovascular responses induced by injection of resistin into paraventricular nucleus (PVN) with rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Adult male rats were anesthetized with urethane (1.4 g/kg intraperitoneally). Resistin (3 µg/1 µl/rat) was first injected into PVN, and the glutamatergic, corticotrophin-releasing factor (CRF)-ergic and angiotensinogenic transmission was inhibited by injecting of their antagonist in RVLM. Arterial pressure (AP) and heart rate (HR) were monitored before and after the injection.

RESULTS

The results showed that resistin injection into PVN significantly increased AP and HR compared to control group and prior to its injection (P<0.05). Injection of AP5 ((2R)-amino-5-phosphonovaleric acid; (2R)-amino-5-phosphonopentanoate) (50 nM/rat), losartan (10 nM/rat) and astressin (50 nM/rat) into RVLM reduced cardiovascular responses produced by injected resistin into PVN. Injection of AP5+losartan or astressin+losartan or astressin+AP5 into RVLM could significantly reduce cardiovascular responses produced by resistin compared to before injection (P<0.05). Furthermore, the depressor responses generated by AP5+losartan injected into RVLM were significantly stronger than the depressor responses generated by AP5+astressin and/or astressin+losartan injected into RVLM (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

It can be concluded that glutamatergic and CRFergic transmissions have crucial contribution to cardiovascular responses produced by resistin. The results provided new and potentially important insight regarding neural transmission when the plasma level of resistin increases; this reveals the role of resistin in cardiovascular responses such as metabolic syndrome and hypertension.