Andrographolide attenuates epithelial-mesenchymal transition induced by TGF-β1 in alveolar epithelial cells

GCH1 contributes to high-altitude adaptation in Tibetans by regulating blood nitric oxide

Nitric oxide (NO) is a key vasodilator that regulates vascular pressure and blood flow. Tibetans have developed a "blunted" mechanism for regulating NO levels at high altitude, with GTP cyclohydrolase 1 (GCH1) identified as a key candidate gene. Here, we present comprehensive genetic and functional analyses of GCH1, which exhibits strong Darwinian positive selection in Tibetans. We show that Tibetan-enriched GCH1 variants down-regulate its expression in the blood of Tibetans. Based on this observation, we generate the heterozygous Gch1 knockout (Gch1+/-) mouse model to simulate its downregulation in Tibetans. We find that under prolonged hypoxia, the Gch1+/- mice have relatively higher blood NO and blood oxygen saturation levels compared to the wild-type (WT) controls, providing better oxygen supplies to the cardiovascular and pulmonary systems. Markedly, hypoxia-induced cardiac hypertrophy and pulmonary remodeling are significantly attenuated in the Gch1+/- mice compared with the WT controls, likely due to the adaptive changes in molecular regulations related to metabolism, inflammation, circadian rhythm, extracellular matrix, and oxidative stress. This study sheds light on the role of GCH1 in regulating blood NO, contributing to the physiological adaptation of the cardiovascular and pulmonary systems in Tibetans at high altitude.

Andrographolide: A promising therapeutic agent against organ fibrosis

Fibrosis is the terminal pathology of chronic illness in many organs, marked by excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins. These changes influence organ function, ultimately resulting in organ failure. Although significant progress has been achieved in comprehending the molecular pathways responsible for fibrosis in the last decades, effective and approved clinical therapies for the condition are still lacking. Andrographolide is a diterpenoid isolated and purified mainly from the aboveground parts of the Andrographis paniculata plant, which possesses good effects of purging heat, detoxifying, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. In-depth research has gradually confirmed the anticancer, antioxidant, antiviral and other effects of Andro so that it can play a preventive and therapeutic role in various diseases. Over the past few years, an increasing number of research findings have indicated that Andro exerts antifibrotic effects in various organs by acting on transforming growth factor-β/small mother against decapentaplegic protein, mitogen-activated protein kinases, nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2, nuclear factor kappa-B and other signalling molecules to inhibit inflammation, oxidative stress, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, fibroblast activation and collagen buildup. This review presents a compilation of findings regarding the antifibrotic impact of Andro in tissue and cell models in vitro and in vivo. Emphasis is placed on the potential therapeutic benefits of Andro in diseases related to organ fibrosis. Existing studies and cutting-edge technologies on Andro pharmacokinetics, toxicity and bioavailability are briefly discussed to provide evidence for accelerating its clinical conversion and adoption.

The potential therapeutic effect of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes in bronchopulmonary dysplasia

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a chronic lung disease of preterm infants, with its incidence rising due to improved survival rates of these infants. BPD results from a combination of prenatal and postnatal factors, such as mechanical ventilation, oxygen toxicity, and infections, all of which significantly impact the prognosis and growth of affected infants. Current treatment options for BPD are largely supportive and do not address the underlying pathology. Exosomes are cell-derived bilayer-enclosed membrane structures enclosing proteins, lipids, RNAs, growth factors, cytokines and metabolites. They have become recognized as crucial regulators of intercellular communication in various physiological and pathological processes. Previous studies have revealed the therapeutic potential of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells-derived exosomes (HUCMSCs-Exos) in promoting tissue repair and regeneration. Therefore, HUCMSCs-Exos maybe a promising and effective therapeutic modality for BPD. In this review, we firstly provide a comprehensive overview of BPD, including its etiology and the mechanisms of lung injury. Then we detail the isolation, characterization, and contents of HUCMSCs-Exos, and discuss their potential mechanisms of HUCMSCs-Exos in BPD treatment. Additionally, we summarize current clinical trials and discuss the challenges in translating these findings from bench to bedside. This review aims to lay the groundwork for future clinical applications of HUCMSCs-Exos in treating BPD.

Bone morphogenetic protein 4 ameliorates bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice by repressing NLRP3 inflammasome activation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition

Background

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive and deadly lung disease with limited therapeutic options. Bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4), a multifunctional growth factor that belongs to the transforming growth factor-β superfamily, is able to relieve pulmonary fibrosis in mice; nevertheless, the potential mechanism of action remains largely unknown. Growing evidence supports the notion that reiterant damage to the alveolar epithelial cells (AECs) is usually the "prime mover" for pulmonary fibrosis. Here, we examined the effect and mechanisms of BMP4 on bleomycin (BLM)-induced activation of NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in vivo and in vitro.

Methods

The in vivo impact of BMP4 was investigated in a BLM mouse model. Histopathologic changes were analyzed by hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) and Masson's trichrome staining. The NLRP3 inflammasome activation was determined by quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and immunofluorescence staining. Biomarkers of EMT were measured by qRT-PCR, Western blot and immunofluorescence staining. The in vitro impact of BMP4 on BLM-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation and EMT was explored in A549 AECs. We also evaluated whether BMP4 inhibited BLM-activated ERK1/2 signaling to address the possible molecular mechanisms.

Results

BMP4 was significantly downregulated in the mouse lungs from BLM-induced pulmonary fibrosis. BMP4+/- mice presented with more severe lung fibrosis in response to BLM, and accelerated NLRP3 inflammasome activation and EMT process compared with that in BMP4+/+ mice. Whereas overexpression of BMP4 by injecting adeno-associated virus (AAV) 9 into mice attenuated BLM-induced fibrotic changes, NLRP3 inflammasome activation, and EMT in the mouse lungs, thus exerting protective efficacy against lung fibrosis. In vitro, BMP4 significantly reduced BLM-induced activation of NLRP3 inflammasome and EMT in human alveolar epithelial A549 cells. Mechanically, BMP4 repressed BLM-induced activation of ERK1/2 signaling in vivo and in vitro, suggesting that ERK1/2 inactivation contributes to BMP4-induced effects on BLM-induced activation of NLRP3 inflammasome and EMT.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that BMP4 can suppress NLRP3 inflammasome activation and EMT in AECs via inhibition of ERK1/2 signaling pathway, thus has a potential for the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis.

Monomeric compounds from natural products for the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis: a review

Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is the end stage of lung injury and chronic lung diseases that results in diminished lung function, respiratory failure, and ultimately mortality. Despite extensive research, the pathogenesis of this disease remains elusive, and effective therapeutic options are currently limited, posing a significant clinical challenge. In addition, research on traditional Chinese medicine and naturopathic medicine is hampered by several complications due to complex composition and lack of reference compounds. Natural product monomers, possessing diverse biological activities and excellent safety profiles, have emerged as potential candidates for preventing and treating PF. The effective anti-PF ingredients identified can be generally divided into flavonoids, saponins, polysaccharides, and alkaloids. Specifically, these monomeric compounds can attenuate inflammatory response, oxidative stress, and other physiopathological processes of the lung through many signaling pathways. They also improve pulmonary factors. Additionally, they ameliorate epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and fibroblast-myofibroblast transdifferentiation (FMT) by regulating multiple signal amplifiers in the lungs, thereby mitigating PF. This review highlights the significant role of monomer compounds derived from natural products in reducing inflammation, oxidative stress, and inhibiting EMT process. The article provides comprehensive information and serves as a solid foundation for further exploration of new strategies to harness the potential of botanicals in the treatment of PF.

Structural Modification and Optimisation of Hyperoside Oriented to Inhibit TGF-β-Induced EMT Activity in Alveolar Epithelial Cells

Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a disease characterised by diffuse nonspecific alveolar inflammation with interstitial fibrosis, which clinically manifests as dyspnoea and a significant decline in lung function. Many studies have shown that the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis. Based on our previous findings, hypericin (Hyp) can effectively inhibit the process of the EMT to attenuate lung fibrosis. Therefore, a series of hyperoside derivatives were synthesised via modifying the structure of hyperoside, and subsequently evaluated for A549 cytotoxicity. Among these, the pre-screening of eight derivatives inhibits the EMT. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of Z6, the most promising hyperoside derivative, in reversing TGF-β1-induced EMTs and inhibiting the EMT-associated migration of A549 cells. After the treatment of A549 cells with Z6 for 48 h, RT-qPCR and Western blot results showed that Z6 inhibited TGF-β1-induced EMTs in epithelial cells by supressing morphological changes in A549 cells, up-regulating E-cadherin (p < 0.01, p < 0.001), and down-regulating Vimentin (p < 0.01, p < 0.001). This treatment significantly reduced the mobility of transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1)-stimulated cells (p < 0.001) as assessed by wound closure, while increasing the adhesion rate of A549 cells (p < 0.001). In conclusion, our results suggest that hyperoside derivatives, especially compound Z6, are promising as potential lead compounds for treating pulmonary fibrosis, and therefore deserve further investigation.

Sirtuins and Cellular Senescence in Patients with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis and Systemic Autoimmune Disorders

The sirtuin family is a heterogeneous group of proteins that play a critical role in many cellular activities. Several degenerative diseases have recently been linked to aberrant sirtuin expression and activity because of the involvement of sirtuins in maintaining cell longevity and their putative antiaging function. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and progressive pulmonary fibrosis associated with systemic autoimmune disorders are severe diseases characterized by premature and accelerated exhaustion and failure of alveolar type II cells combined with aberrant activation of fibroblast proliferative pathways leading to dramatic destruction of lung architecture. The mechanisms underlying alveolar type II cell exhaustion in these disorders are not fully understood. In this review, we have focused on the role of sirtuins in the pathogenesis of idiopathic and secondary pulmonary fibrosis and their potential as biomarkers in the diagnosis and management of fibrotic interstitial lung diseases.

The role and regulation of SIRT1 in pulmonary fibrosis

Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a progressive and fatal lung disease with high incidence and a lack of effective treatment, which is a severe public health problem. PF has caused a huge socio-economic burden, and its pathogenesis has become a research hotspot. SIRT1 is a nicotinamide adenosine dinucleotide (NAD)-dependent sirtuin essential in tumours, Epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT), and anti-aging. Numerous studies have demonstrated after extensive research that it is crucial in preventing the progression of pulmonary fibrosis. This article reviews the biological roles and mechanisms of SIRT1 in regulating the progression of pulmonary fibrosis in terms of EMT, oxidative stress, inflammation, aging, autophagy, and discusses the potential of SIRT1 as a therapeutic target for pulmonary fibrosis, and provides a new perspective on therapeutic drugs and prognosis prospects.

Inhibition of TGF-β1-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition in gliomas by DMC-HA

DMC-HA, a novel HDAC inhibitor, has previously demonstrated antiproliferative activity against various cancers, including gliomas. However, the role of DMC-HA in the regulation of EMT and its underlying mechanisms remain unknown. This study aimed to explore the effects of DMC-HA on TGF-β1-induced EMT in human gliomas and the underlying mechanisms involved. Our results showed that TGF-β1 induced EMT of U87 and U251 cells, leading to a decrease in epithelial marker ZO-1 and an increase in mesenchymal markers N-cadherin and Vimentin. Moreover, TGF-β1 treatment resulted in a significant increase in the migratory and invasive abilities of the cells. However, treatment with DMC-HA effectively inhibited the augmented migration and invasion of glioma cells induced by TGF-β1. Additionally, DMC-HA inhibits TGF-β1-induced EMT by suppressing canonical Smad pathway and non-canonical TGF-β/Akt and Erk signalling pathways. These findings suggest that DMC-HA has potential therapeutic implications for gliomas by inhibiting EMT progression.

CSE triggers ferroptosis via SIRT4-mediated GNPAT deacetylation in the pathogenesis of COPD

BACKGROUND

It is now understood that ferroptosis plays a significant role in the progression of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) induced by cigarette smoke extract (CSE). However, the mechanisms underlying this relationship remain largely unclear.

METHODS

In this study, we established a COPD mouse model through exposure to cigarette smoke particulates, followed by H&E staining, analysis of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, and immunohistochemistry assay. A549 cells were exposed to increasing concentrations of CSE, with the addition of the ferroptosis activator erastin or the inhibitor Fer-1. Cell viability, LDH (lactate dehydrogenase) release, inflammatory cytokines, total ROS (reactive oxygen species), and lipid ROS were measured using the corresponding assay kits. The acetylation level of GNPAT was determined through immunoprecipitation. We assessed the expression levels of molecules involved in plasmalogen biosynthesis (FAR1, AGPS, and GNPAT), GPX4, and SIRT4 using quantitative real-time PCR, western blot analysis, and immunofluorescence staining.

RESULTS

CSE-induced lung tissue damage was initially observed, accompanied by oxidative stress, ferroptosis, and increased plasmalogen biosynthesis molecules (FAR1, AGPS, and GNPAT). CSE also induced ferroptosis in A549 cells, resulting in reduced cell viability, GSH, and GPX4 levels, along with increased LDH, ROS, MDA (malondialdehyde) levels, oxidized lipids, and elevated FAR1, AGPS, and GNPAT expression. Knockdown of GNPAT mitigated CSE-induced ferroptosis. Furthermore, we found that CSE regulated the acetylation and protein levels of GNPAT by modulating SIRT4 expression. Importantly, the overexpression of GNPAT countered the inhibitory effects of SIRT4 on ferroptosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study revealed GNPAT could be deacetylated by SIRT4, providing novel insights into the mechanisms underlying the relationship between CSE-induced ferroptosis and COPD.

A systematic review of the research progress of traditional Chinese medicine against pulmonary fibrosis: from a pharmacological perspective

Pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic progressive interstitial lung disease caused by a variety of etiologies. The disease can eventually lead to irreversible damage to the lung tissue structure, severely affecting respiratory function and posing a serious threat to human health. Currently, glucocorticoids and immunosuppressants are the main drugs used in the clinical treatment of pulmonary fibrosis, but their efficacy is limited and they can cause serious adverse effects. Traditional Chinese medicines have important research value and potential for clinical application in anti-pulmonary fibrosis. In recent years, more and more scientific researches have been conducted on the use of traditional Chinese medicine to improve or reduce pulmonary fibrosis, and some important breakthroughs have been made. This review paper systematically summarized the research progress of pharmacological mechanism of traditional Chinese medicines and their active compounds in improving or reducing pulmonary fibrosis. We conducted a systematic search in several main scientific databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, using keywords such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, pulmonary fibrosis, interstitial pneumonia, natural products, herbal medicine, and therapeutic methods. Ultimately, 252 articles were included and systematically evaluated in this analysis. The anti-fibrotic mechanisms of these traditional Chinese medicine studies can be roughly categorized into 5 main aspects, including inhibition of epithelial-mesenchymal transition, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, improvement of extracellular matrix deposition, mediation of apoptosis and autophagy, and inhibition of endoplasmic reticulum stress. The purpose of this article is to provide pharmaceutical researchers with information on the progress of scientific research on improving or reducing Pulmonary fibrosis with traditional Chinese medicine, and to provide reference for further pharmacological research.

Andrographis modulates cisplatin resistance in lung cancer via miR-155-5p/SIRT1 axis

Andrographis (Andro) has been identified as an anti-cancer herbal. This study was to explore its underlying regulatory routes regarding cisplatin (DDP) resistance in lung cancer. The impacts of Andro on cell viability in lung cancer cells and normal cells BEAS-2B were validated using CCK8 tests. Then, cell viability and apoptosis analysis was performed in the cells after DDP, Andro, or combined treatment. RT-qPCR was applied for evaluating miR-155-5p and SIRT1 mRNA expressions, while western blot was for evaluating SIRT1 protein expressions. Binding sites between SIRT1 and miR-155-5p were predicted on TargetScan and were confirmed using luciferase reporter assays. Xenograft animal models were established for in vivo validation of the regulatory function of Andro in lung cancer. Andro decreased the cell viability in lung cancer cells but not normal cells BEAS-2B. The combined treatment with DDP and Andro induced the lowest viability and highest apoptosis in both A549 and A549/DDP cells. MiR-155-5p expression was suppressed, and SIRT was promoted by the Andro treatment, while overexpression of miR-155-5p reversed effects of Andro in cells, which was further counteracted by SIRT1 activation. SIRT1 was verified to be a target of miR-155-5p in A549/DDP cells. Moreover, Andro synergized with DDP in mice with lung cancer via miR-155-5p/SIRT1. Andro modulates cisplatin resistance in lung cancer via miR-155-5p/SIRT1 axis.

The role of Sirtuin 1 and its activators in age-related lung disease

Aging is a major driving factor in lung diseases. Age-related lung disease is associated with downregulated expression of SIRT1, an NAD⁺-dependent deacetylase that regulates inflammation and stress resistance. SIRT1 acts by inducing the deacetylation of various substrates and regulates several mechanisms that relate to lung aging, such as genomic instability, lung stem cell exhaustion, mitochondrial dysfunction, telomere shortening, and immune senescence. Chinese herbal medicines have many biological activities, exerting anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidation, anti-tumor, and immune regulatory effects. Recent studies have confirmed that many Chinese herbs have the effect of activating SIRT1. Therefore, we reviewed the mechanism of SIRT1 in age-related lung disease and explored the potential roles of Chinese herbs as SIRT1 activators in the treatment of age-related lung disease.

Pedunculoside inhibits epithelial-mesenchymal transition and overcomes Gefitinib-resistant non-small cell lung cancer through regulating MAPK and Nrf2 pathways

BACKGROUND

Lung cancer is the primary cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide owing to its strong metastatic ability. EGFR-TKI (Gefitinib) has demonstrated efficacy in metastatic lung cancer therapy, but most patients ultimately develop resistance to Gefitinib, leading to a poor prognosis. Pedunculoside (PE), a triterpene saponin extracted from Ilex rotunda Thunb., has shown anti-inflammatory, lipid-lowering and anti-tumor effects. Nevertheless, the therapeutic effect and potential mechanisms of PE on NSCLC treatment are unclear.

PURPOSE

To investigate the inhibitory effect and prospective mechanisms of PE on NSCLC metastases and Gefitinib-resistant NSCLC.

METHODS

In vitro, A549/GR cells were established by Gefitinib persistent induction of A549 cells with a low dose and shock with a high dose. The cell migratory ability was measured using wound healing and Transwell assays. Additionally, EMT-related Markers or ROS production were assessed by RT-qPCR, immunofluorescence, Western blotting, and flow cytometry assays in A549/GR and TGF-β1-induced A549 cells. In vivo, B16-F10 cells were intravenously injected into mice, and the effect of PE on tumor metastases were determined using hematoxylin-eosin staining, Caliper IVIS Lumina, DCFH₂-DA staining, and western blotting assays.

RESULTS

PE reversed TGF-β1-induced EMT by downregulating EMT-related protein expression through MAPK and Nrf2 pathways, decreasing ROS production, and inhibiting cell migration and invasion ability. Moreover, PE treatment enabled A549/GR cells to retrieve the sensitivity to Gefitinib and mitigate the biological characteristics of EMT. PE also significantly inhibited lung metastasis in mice by reversing EMT proteins expression, decreasing ROS production, and inhibiting MAPK and Nrf2 pathways.

CONCLUSIONS

Collectively, this research presents a novel finding that PE can reverse NSCLC metastasis and improve Gefitinib sensitivity in Gefitinib-resistant NSCLC through the MAPK and Nrf2 pathways, subsequently suppressing lung metastasis in B16-F10 lung metastatic mice model. Our findings indicate that PE is a potential agent for inhibiting metastasis and improving Gefitinib resistance in NSCLC.

microRNA-130b-3p delivery by mesenchymal stem cells-derived exosomes confers protection on acute lung injury

OBJECTIVE

Researchers have investigated miR-130b-3p in lung disease pathology, such as lung fibrosis. The present study was performed to elucidate the miR-130b-3p-involved mechanism in acute lung injury (ALI) through delivery by mesenchymal stem cells-derived exosomes (MSCs-Exo).

METHODS

ALI mouse models were induced via intratracheal administration of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and treated with MSCs-Exo. Lung dry-wet (W/D) ratio, inflammatory factors in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, pathological damage and apoptosis in the lung tissues were analyzed. Expression levels of miR-130b-3p and TGFBR1 were measured in the mouse lung tissues, and the interaction between miR-130b-3p and TGFBR1 was studied.

RESULTS

MSCs-Exo relieved LPS-induced ALI in mice by reducing lung W/D ratio and inflammatory response, and attenuating lung tissue pathological damage and reducing the alveolar cell apoptosis. miR-130b-3p delivery by MSCs-Exo reduced LPS-induced ALI in mice. TGFBR1 was determined to be a downstream target gene of miR-130b-3p. Inhibition of TGFBR1 could remit LPS-induced ALI in mice. The protection mediated by MSCs-Exo carrying miR-130b-3p could be rescued by elevating TGFBR1 expression.

CONCLUSION

miR-130b-3p delivery by MSCs-Exo confers protection on ALI in mice via the downregulation of TGFBR1.

Specific epigenetic regulators serve as potential therapeutic targets in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a disorder observed mostly in older human beings, is characterised by chronic and progressive lung scarring leading to an irreversible decline in lung function. This health condition has a dismal prognosis and the currently available drugs only delay but fail to reverse the progression of lung damage. Consequently, it becomes imperative to discover improved therapeutic compounds and their cellular targets to cure IPF. In this regard, a number of recent studies have targeted the epigenetic regulation by histone deacetylases (HDACs) to develop and categorise antifibrotic drugs for lungs. Therefore, this review focuses on how aberrant expression or activity of Classes I, II and III HDACs alter TGF-β signalling to promote events such as epithelial-mesenchymal transition, differentiation of activated fibroblasts into myofibroblasts, and excess deposition of the extracellular matrix to propel lung fibrosis. Further, this study describes how certain chemical compounds or dietary changes modulate dysregulated HDACs to attenuate five faulty TGF-β-dependent profibrotic processes, both in animal models and cell lines replicating IPF, thereby identifying promising means to treat this lung disorder.

High-content screening of active components of Traditional Chinese Medicine inhibiting TGF-β-induced cell EMT

The epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) has roles in metastasis and invasion during fibrotic diseases and cancer progression. Some Traditional Chinese Medicines (TCMs) have shown inhibitory effects with respect to the EMT. The current study attempted to establish a multiparametric high-content method to screen for active monomeric compounds in TCM with the ability to target cellular EMT by assessing phenotypic changes. A total of 306 monomeric compounds from the MedChemExpress (MCE) compound library were screened by the high-content screening (HCS) system and 5 compounds with anti-EMT activity, including camptothecin (CPT), dimethyl curcumin (DMC), artesunate (ART), sinapine (SNP) and berberine (BER) were identified. To confirm anti-EMT activity, expression of EMT markers was assessed by qRT-PCR and Western blotting, and cell adhesion and migration measured by cell function assays. The results revealed that CPT, DMC, ART, SNP and BER inhibited transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)-induced expression of vimentin and α-SMA, upregulated expression of E-cadherin, increased cell adhesion and reduced cell migration. In summary, by quantifying the cell morphological changes during TGF-β1-induced EMT through multi-parametric analysis, TCM compounds with anti-EMT activity were successfully screened using the HCS system, a faster and more economical approach than conventional methods.

mmu-microRNA-92a-3p attenuates pulmonary fibrosis by modulating Cpeb4-mediated Smad2/3 signaling pathway

Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a chronic lung disorder, in which the mechanism of mmu-microRNA (miR)-92a-3p is not elucidated clearly. The present work was proposed to disclose mmu-miR-92a-3p-focused mechanism in PF with cytoplasmic polyadenylation element-binding protein 4 (Cpeb4)/Smad2/3 axis. PF was induced in mice by the intratracheal injection of bleomycin (BLM). Then, the BLM-treated mice were injected with mmu-miR-92a-3p- and/or Cpeb4-related adenovirus vectors. mmu-miR-92a-3p, Cpeb4, and Smad2/3 expression in lung tissues were examined. Alveolar cell apoptosis and collagen deposition in lung tissues and inflammatory factors in serum were observed. The interaction between mmu-miR-92a-3p and Cpeb4 was explored. Lowly expressed mmu-miR-92a-3p and highly expressed Cpeb4 and Smad2/3 were manifested in BLM-induced PF mice. BLM-induced PF mice exhibited enhanced inflammation, alveolar cell apoptosis, and collagen deposition, which would be attenuated by upregulating mmu-miR-92a-3p or downregulating Cpeb4. mmu-miR-92a-3p targeted Cpeb4. Upregulating mmu-miR-92a-3p or downregulating Cpeb4 inactivated the Smad2/3 signaling pathway in BLM-induced PF mice. It is elaborated that mmu-miR-92a-3p attenuates the process of PF by modulating Cpeb4-mediated Smad2/3 signaling pathway, renewing the molecular mechanism of PF.

Luteolin can ameliorate renal interstitial fibrosis-induced renal anaemia through the SIRT1/FOXO3 pathway

Luteolin is a natural flavonoid exhibiting multiple pharmacological activities.

Andrographolide: A review of its pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, toxicity and clinical trials and pharmaceutical researches

Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) Wall. ex Nees, a renowned herb medicine in China, is broadly utilized in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for the treatment of cold and fever, sore throat, sore tongue, snake bite with its excellent functions of clearing heat and toxin, cooling blood and detumescence from times immemorial. Modern pharmacological research corroborates that andrographolide, the major ingredient in this traditional herb, is the fundamental material basis for its efficacy. As the main component of Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) Wall. ex Nees, andrographolide reveals numerous therapeutic actions, such as antiinflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, antimicrobial, antihyperglycemic and so on. However, there are scarcely systematic summaries on the specific mechanism of disease treatment and pharmacokinetics. Moreover, it is also found that it possesses easily ignored security issues in clinical application, such as nephrotoxicity and reproductive toxicity. Thereby it should be kept a lookout over in clinical. Besides, the relationship between the efficacy and security issues of andrographolide should be investigated and evaluated scientifically. In this review, special emphasis is given to andrographolide, a multifunctional natural terpenoids, including its pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, toxicity and pharmaceutical researches. A brief overview of its clinical trials is also presented. This review intends to systematically and comprehensively summarize the current researches of andrographolide, which is of great significance for the development of andrographolide clinical products. Noteworthy, those un-cracked issues such as specific pharmacological mechanisms, security issues, as well as the bottleneck in clinical transformation, which detailed exploration and excavation are still not to be ignored before achieving integration into clinical practice. In addition, given that current extensive clinical data do not have sufficient rigor and documented details, more high-quality investigations in this field are needed to validate the efficacy and/or safety of many herbal products.

FERMT3 mediates cigarette smoke-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition through Wnt/β-catenin signaling

Background

Cigarette smoking is a major risk factor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung cancer. Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) is an essential pathophysiological process in COPD and plays an important role in airway remodeling, fibrosis, and malignant transformation of COPD. Previous studies have indicated FERMT3 is downregulated and plays a tumor-suppressive role in lung cancer. However, the role of FERMT3 in COPD, including EMT, has not yet been investigated.

Methods

The present study aimed to explore the potential role of FERMT3 in COPD and its underlying molecular mechanisms. Three GEO datasets were utilized to analyse FERMT3 gene expression profiles in COPD. We then established EMT animal models and cell models through cigarette smoke (CS) or cigarette smoke extract (CSE) exposure to detect the expression of FERMT3 and EMT markers. RT-PCR, western blot, immunohistochemical, cell migration, and cell cycle were employed to investigate the potential regulatory effect of FERMT3 in CSE-induced EMT.

Results

Based on Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) data set analysis, FERMT3 expression in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was lower in COPD smokers than in non-smokers or smokers. Moreover, FERMT3 expression was significantly down-regulated in lung tissues of COPD GOLD 4 patients compared with the control group. Cigarette smoke exposure reduced the FERMT3 expression and induces EMT both in vivo and in vitro. The results showed that overexpression of FERMT3 could inhibit EMT induced by CSE in A549 cells. Furthermore, the CSE-induced cell migration and cell cycle progression were reversed by FERMT3 overexpression. Mechanistically, our study showed that overexpression of FERMT3 inhibited CSE-induced EMT through the Wnt/β-catenin signaling.

Conclusions

In summary, these data suggest FERMT3 regulates cigarette smoke-induced epithelial–mesenchymal transition through Wnt/β-catenin signaling. These findings indicated that FERMT3 was correlated with the development of COPD and may serve as a potential target for both COPD and lung cancer.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12931-021-01881-y.

Andrographolide alleviates bleomycin-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in lung epithelial cells by suppressing AKT/mTOR signaling pathway

Background

Andrographolide (Andro), a diterpenoid extracted from Andrographis paniculata, has been shown to attenuate pulmonary fibrosis in rodents; however, the potential mechanisms remain largely unclear. This study investigated whether and how Andro alleviates bleomycin (BLM)-induced NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in the lung epithelial cells.

Methods

The in vivo effects of Andro were evaluated in a rat model of BLM-induced pulmonary fibrosis. The roles of Andro in BLM-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation, EMT and AKT/mTOR signaling were investigated using human alveolar epithelial A549 cells.

Results

We found that Andro significantly alleviated pulmonary edema and histopathological changes, decreased weight loss, and reduced collagen deposition. Andro downregulated the levels of NLRP3, the adaptor molecule apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD (ASC), and Caspase-1 in the lungs of BLM-treated rats, suggesting the inhibitory effect of Andro on NLRP3 inflammasome activation in vivo. Additionally, the symptoms of BLM-mediated EMT phenotype in the lung were also attenuated after Andro administration. In vitro, Andro also markedly inhibited BLM-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation and EMT in A549 cells. Moreover, Andro inhibited BLM-induced phosphorylation of AKT and mTOR in A549 cells, suggesting that AKT/mTOR inactivation mediates Andro-induced effects on BLM-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation and EMT.

Conclusions

These data indicate that Andro can reduce BLM-induced pulmonary fibrosis through suppressing NLRP3 inflammasome activation and EMT in lung epithelial cells via AKT/mTOR signaling pathway.

Positive Effect of Andrographolide Induced Autophagy on Random-Pattern Skin Flaps Survival

Random-pattern skin flap replantation is generally used in the reconstruction of surgical tissues and covering a series of skin flap defects. However, ischemia often occurs at the flap distal parts, which lead to flap necrosis. Previous studies have shown that andrographolide (Andro) protects against ischemic cardiovascular diseases, but little is known about the effect of Andro on flap viability. Thus, our study aimed to building a model of random-pattern skin flap to understand the mechanism of Andro-induced effects on flap survival. In this study, fifty-four mice were randomly categorized into the control, Andro group, and the Andro+3-methyladenine group. The skin flap samples were obtained on postoperative day 7. Subsequently, the tissue samples were underwent a series of evaluations such as changes in the appearance of flap tissue, the intensity of blood flow, and neovascularization density of skin flap. In our study, the results revealed that Andro enhanced the viability of random skin flaps by enhancing angiogenesis, inhibiting apoptosis, and reducing oxidative stress. Furthermore, our results have also demonstrated that the administration of Andro caused an elevation in the autophagy, and these remarkable impact of Andro were reversed by 3-methyladenine (3-MA), the most common autophagy inhibitor. Together, our data proves novel evidence that Andro is a potent modulator of autophagy capable of significantly increasing random-pattern skin flap survival.

Therapeutic Potential of Exosomes in Pulmonary Fibrosis

Pulmonary fibrosis is closely associated with the recruitment of fibroblasts from capillary vessels with damaged endothelial cells, the epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) of type II alveolar epithelial cells, and the transformation of fibroblasts to myofibroblasts. Recent studies suggest that EMT is a key factor in the pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis, as the disruption of EMT-related effector molecules can inhibit the occurrence and development of PF. With the numerous advancements made in molecular biology in recent years, researchers have discovered that exosomes and their cargos, such as miRNAs, lncRNAs, and proteins, can promote or inhibit the EMT, modulate the transformation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts, contribute to the proliferation of fibroblasts and promote immunoregulatory and mitochondrial damage during pulmonary fibrosis. Exosomes are key factors regulating the differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) into myofibroblasts. Interestingly, exosomes derived from BMSCs under pathological and physiological conditions may promote or inhibit the EMT of type II alveolar epithelial cells and the transformation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts to regulate pulmonary fibrosis. Thus, exosomes may become a new direction in the study of drugs for the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis.

Andrographolide attenuates epithelial-mesenchymal transition induced by TGF-β1 in alveolar epithelial cells

Andrographolide (Andro), a component from Chinese medicinal herb Andrographis paniculata, could alleviate pulmonary fibrosis in rodents. Yet, whether and how Andro mitigates epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) induced by TGF-β1 remain unknown. This study aimed to explore the effect of Andro on TGF-β1-induced EMT in human alveolar epithelial cells (AECs) and the mechanisms involved. We illustrated that Andro inhibited TGF-β1-induced EMT and EMT-related transcription factors in alveolar epithelial A549 cells. Andro also reduced TGF-β1-induced cell migration and synthesis of pro-fibrotic factors (ie CCN-2, TGF-β1), matrix metalloproteinases (ie MMP-2, MMP-9) and extracellular matrix (ECM) components (ie collagen 1), implying the inhibiting effect of Andro on TGF-β1-induced EMT-like cell behaviours. Mechanistically, Andro treatment not only repressed TGF-β1-induced Smad2/3 phosphorylation and Smad4 nuclear translocation, but also suppressed TGF-β1-induced Erk1/2 phosphorylation and nuclear translocation in A549 cells. And treatment with ALK5 inhibitor (SB431542) or Erk1/2 inhibitors (SCH772984 and PD98059) remarkably reduced EMT evoked by TGF-β1. In addition, Andro also reduced TGF-β1-induced intracellular ROS generation and NOX4 expression, and elevated antioxidant superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) expression, demonstrating the inhibiting effect of Andro on TGF-β1-induced oxidative stress, which is closely linked to EMT. Furthermore, Andro remarkably attenuated TGF-β1-induced down-regulation of sirtuin1 (Sirt1) and forkhead box O3 (FOXO3), implying that Andro protects AECs from EMT partially by activating Sirt1/FOXO3-mediated anti-oxidative stress pathway. In conclusion, Andro represses TGF-β1-induced EMT in AECs by suppressing Smad2/3 and Erk1/2 signalling pathways and is also closely linked to the activation of sirt1/FOXO3-mediated anti-oxidative stress pathway.