Adiponectin and adiponectin receptor 1 overexpression enhance inflammatory bowel disease

Adiponectin as a potential mediator of the pro-cognitive effects of physical exercise on Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease is the primary cause of dementia and imposes a significant socioeconomic burden globally. Physical exercise, as an effective strategy for improving general health, has been largely reported for its effectiveness in slowing neurodegeneration and increasing brain functional plasticity, particularly in aging brains. However, the underlying mechanisms of exercise in cognitive aging remain largely unclear. Adiponectin, a cell-secreted protein hormone, has recently been found to regulate synaptic plasticity and mediate the antidepressant effects of physical exercise. Studies on the neuroprotective effects of adiponectin have revealed potential innovative treatments for Alzheimer's disease. Here, we reviewed the functions of adiponectin and its receptor in the brains of human and animal models of cognitive impairment. We summarized the role of adiponectin in Alzheimer's disease, focusing on its impact on energy metabolism, insulin resistance, and inflammation. We also discuss how exercise increases adiponectin secretion and its potential benefits for learning and memory. Finally, we highlight the latest research on chemical compounds that mimic exercise-enhanced secretion of adiponectin and its receptor in Alzheimer's disease.

MIIST305 mitigates gastrointestinal acute radiation syndrome injury and ameliorates radiation-induced gut microbiome dysbiosis

High-dose radiation exposure results in gastrointestinal (GI) acute radiation syndrome identified by the destruction of mucosal layer, intestinal growth barrier dysfunction, and aberrant inflammatory responses. Further, radiation causes gut microbiome dysbiosis characterized by diminished microbial diversity, mostly commensal bacteria, and the spread of bacterial pathogens that trigger the recruitment of immune cells and the production of pro-inflammatory factors that lead to further GI tissue damage. Currently, there are no U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved countermeasures that can treat radiation-induced GI injuries. To meet this critical need, Synedgen Inc. has developed a glycopolymer radiomitigator (MIIST305) that is specifically targeted to the GI tract, which acts by intercalating into the mucus layer and the glycocalyx of intestinal epithelial cells that could potentially ameliorate the deleterious effects of radiation. Male C57BL/6J adult mice were exposed to 13 Gy partial body X-irradiation with 5% bone marrow shielding and MIIST305 was administered on days 1, 3, and 5 post-irradiation. Approximately 85% of the animals survived the irradiation exposure and were apparently healthy until the end of the 30-day study period. In contrast, no control, Vehicle-treated animals survived past day 10 at this radiation dose. We show that MIIST305 improved intestinal epithelial barrier function and suppressed systemic inflammatory responses mediated by radiation-induced pro-inflammatory cytokines. Taxonomic profiling and community structure of the fecal and colonic mucosa microbiota demonstrated that MIIST305 treatment increased microbial diversity and restored abundance of beneficial commensal bacteria, including Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium genera while suppressing potentially pathogenic bacteria Enterococcus and Staphylococcus compared with Vehicle-treated animals. In summary, MIIST305 is a novel GI-targeted therapeutic that greatly enhances survival in mice exposed to lethal radiation and protects the GI tract from injury by restoring a balanced gut microbiota and reducing pro-inflammatory responses. Further development of this drug as an FDA-approved medical countermeasure is of critical importance.

Role of leptin and adiponectin in immune response and inflammation

Adipose tissue has gained significant attention for its role in immune response and inflammation through the secretion of adipokines. Adipokines, such as leptin and adiponectin, are secreted by adipose tissue and have been implicated in various physiological processes, with a focus on their role in modulating immune responses and inflammation. Leptin and adiponectin are the most abundant adipokines in human, playing a crucial role in regulating functions of the heart, skeletal muscle, growth, and inflammation. Leptin, a pro-inflammatory adipokine, is involved in controlling food intake and energy expenditure, and it influences immune cell activation and cytokine production. In contrast, adiponectin, an anti-inflammatory adipokine, circulates at high levels in the plasma and modulates immune cell functions, counteracting the effects of leptin. Here we provided an overview of the role of adipokines in immune response and inflammation. In addition，The leptin-adiponectin ratio (Adpn/Lep) has emerged as a significant indicator of various metabolic diseases and conditions. Further research is needed to fully elucidate the mechanisms by which adipokines influence immune responses and to identify potential therapeutic targets for inflammatory and metabolic disorders.

Features, functions, and associated diseases of visceral and ectopic fat: a comprehensive review

Obesity is a complex, chronic, and recurrent disease marked by abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that poses significant health risks. The distribution of body fat, especially ectopic fat deposition, plays a crucial role in the development of chronic metabolic diseases. Under normal conditions, fatty acids are primarily stored in subcutaneous adipose tissue; however, excessive intake can lead to fat accumulation in visceral adipose tissue and ectopic sites, including the pancreas, heart, and muscle. This redistribution is associated with disruptions in energy metabolism, inflammation, and insulin resistance, impairing organ function and raising the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and fatty liver. This review explores the roles of visceral and ectopic fat in the development of insulin resistance and related diseases such as type 2 diabetes and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. Specifically, we examine the structure and characteristics of different fat types, their associations with disease, and the underlying pathogenic mechanisms. Future strategies for managing obesity-related diseases may include lifestyle modifications, surgical interventions, and emerging medications that target lipid metabolism and energy regulation, aiming to improve patient outcomes.

Effect of Adiponectin on the Expression of Selected Cytokines in Periodontal Ligament Cells

Periodontitis is a disease caused by a bacterial infection that causes chronic inflammation. The pathogenesis of periodontitis is mediated by several mediators, including chemokines, cytokines, metalloproteinases, and adipokines. Adiponectin is an adipokine that influences several metabolic processes and numerous immunological processes. In this study, we investigated the effect of adiponectin on the expression in the periodontal ligament of selected cytokines involved in the pathogenesis of periodontitis. Human periodontal ligament cells (hPDLCs) were stimulated with adiponectin and then analyzed for expression (TNF-α, IL-1, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-17, and IL-18) in cell cultures at the mRNA level and in supernatants at the protein level. The samples were analyzed after 12, 24, and 48 h of adiponectin stimulation. We found no significant effect of adipokine on TNF-α gene expression after 12, 24, and 48 h of stimulation. For IL-1, a statistically significant increase in IL-1 gene expression was found after 12 h of adiponectin stimulation, while the differences were not statistically significant after 24 and 48 h. Adiponectin caused a statistically significant increase in IL-6 gene expression after 12, 24, and 48 h of stimulation. Stimulating periodontal ligament cells with adiponectin significantly increased TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-8 protein levels in supernatants after 12, 24, and 48 h. The levels of IL-1 were statistically significantly increased after 12 and 24 h of adiponectin stimulation. There was no statistically significant effect of adiponectin on IL-10, IL-17, and IL-18 levels. The results of our study suggest that adiponectin may significantly increase the expression of selected cytokines in periodontal ligament cells.

Coriander microgreens and baby greens: Comparison of volatile and non-volatile metabolites and potential therapeutic effects on type 2 diabetes mellitus and obesity

In this study, to improve the understanding of aroma characteristics, functional components, and nutritional variations in coriander at different growth stages, metabolomic approaches were employed to evaluate the profiles of volatile and non-volatile metabolites in coriander microgreens (CM) and coriander baby greens (CBG), focusing on their types and quantities. A comprehensive analysis identified 1,000 volatile and 1,799 non-volatile metabolites, among which 257 volatile and 597 non-volatile differential metabolites were recognized as key metabolites associated with coriander at various stages of maturity. Notably, key volatile organic compounds (VOCs) 1-p-menthen-8-thiol, 2-isobutyl-3-methoxypyrazine, 5-ethyl-3-hydroxy-4-methyl-2(5H)-furanone and β-ionone were identified as the primary odor determinants during the CM and CBM stages. Additionally, flavonoids such as kaempferol, quercetin, myricetin, isorhamnetin-3-O-glucoside, 7,4'-dihydroxyflavone significantly contribute to flavonoid biosynthesis pathways of coriander. Subsequently, a network pharmacology analysis was conducted to explore the potential therapeutic targets and pathways associated with the bioactive constituents pertinent to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity (OB), as identified through the metabolomics analysis. Through comprehensive bioactive ingredient screening, target prediction, protein-protein interaction network analysis, biological process examination, signaling pathway elucidation, and molecular docking validation, the underlying mechanisms by which CM and CBG potentially confer protection against T2DM and OB were elucidated. Through network pharmacology analysis, 10 core targets and their corresponding 49 compounds, including 17 flavonoids, were screened. This study establishes a theoretical framework for the application of CM and CBG as plant-based functional foods, distinguished by their flavor profiles, nutritional content, and health-promoting properties.

Circulating levels of adiponectin and AdipoR expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells are associated with lower respiratory tract Infection

Objective

The role of adiponectin (APN) in regulating inflammation is well recognized in metabolic disease, but the dysregulation of APN in lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) remains controversial. We aimed to measure APN and its signaling receptors, adiponectin receptor (AdipoR), in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from LRTI patients to explore their potential roles in the LRTI process.

Methods

A total of 99 LRTI patients from the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University were categorized into acute (n=35) and non-acute (n=64), and non-severe (n=62) and severe (n=37) groups. Serum APN was quantified using ELISA, and mRNA levels of PBMC AdipoRs were determined by RT-qPCR.

Results

Both levels of APN in circulation and AdipoR1 mRNA were significantly elevated in the LRTI patients (P=2.61E-04; P=2.49E-08), while no statistical difference was observed for AdipoR2. APN levels were increased in the non-acute group compared to the acute group (P=6.06E-04) and AdipoR1 levels were higher in the severe group (P=0.004). Increased APN and AdipoR1 mRNA levels were positively associated with LRTI even after adjustment for sex, age, BMI and blood lipids (OR=1.10; 95% CI 1.04-1.18; P=9.61E-04; OR=2.69; 95% CI 1.29-5.58; P=0.008). Subgroup analyses based on sex, age, and BMI revealed APN elevation in males, ≥65-year-olds, and overweight individuals, with higher AdipoR2 mRNA in females and those under 65; AdipoR1 was uniformly elevated. Additionally, APN was negatively correlated with lymphocyte count in acute and severe subgroup; AdipoR1 was positively correlated with indicators of inflammation in LRTI group.

Conclusion

Our study highlights that serum APN and AdipoR1 mRNA in PBMCs are associated with LRTI. Circulating APN and PBMC AdipoR1 have different significances in LRTI acute onset and severity.

Adiponectin deficiency prevents chronic colitis-associated colonic fibrosis via inhibiting CXCL13 production

INTRODUCTION

Colonic fibrosis is a long-term complication of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), often leading to functional impairment, intestinal obstruction, and surgery. Adiponectin (APN) is an adipokine derived from adipocytes that plays a pleiotropic role in fibrosis regulation, depending on tissue and cell type specific or disease context, but its role in colonic fibrosis remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To explore the role and involved mechanism of APN in chronic colitis-associated colonic fibrosis.

METHODS

Studies were performed in GEO database, colonic tissues of UC patients, dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colonic fibrosis in male wild-type (WT) and APN-/- mice, mouse L929 and human CCD-18Co fibroblasts treated with recombinant CXCL13 protein, and colonic fibrosis in WT mice infected with shRNA of CXCL13.

RESULTS

APN was highly expressed in the colonic tissues of UC patients and positively correlated with the colonoscopy score and colonic fibrosis markers COL1A1 and COL3A1. APN deficiency significantly improved chronic colitis-induced colonic fibrosis in mice with down-regulating collagenase accumulation and expressions of TGF-β, α-SMA, COL1A1, COL3A1, and MMP-9 in colonic tissues. Transcriptomics showed that APN deficiency mainly affected cytokine-cytokine receptor interactions, especially CXCL13 signaling. Follow-up studies showed that APN deficiency significantly decreased the number of colonic F4/80+CD206+CXCL13+ macrophages by weakening Akt phosphorylation. Additional experiments confirmed that CXCL13 notably increased the expressions of α-SMA and COL1A1 in mouse and human fibroblasts by activating p-Akt, p-p38, p-ERK, and p-JNK. Moreover, inhibiting CXCL13 with shRNA significantly ameliorated colonic fibrosis in mice with DSS-induced chronic colitis. Immunohistochemistry analysis revealed high expression of CXCL13 in the colon tissues of patients with UC, showing a positive correlation with APN, COL1A1, and COL3A1.

CONCLUSION

APN contributes to the progression of colonic fibrosis and can exacerbate this condition by regulating the secretion of CXCL13 in the colon, offering potential new perspectives on the pathophysiology of colonic fibrosis.

MIIST305 mitigates gastrointestinal acute radiation syndrome injury and ameliorates radiation-induced gut microbiome dysbiosis

High-dose radiation exposure results in gastrointestinal (GI) acute radiation syndrome identified by the destruction of mucosal layer, intestinal epithelial barrier dysfunction, and aberrant inflammatory responses. In addition, radiation causes gut microbiome dysbiosis characterized by diminished microbial diversity, reduction in the abundance of beneficial commensal bacteria, and the spread of bacterial pathogens that trigger the recruitment of immune cells and the production of pro-inflammatory factors that lead to further GI tissue damage. Currently, there are no FDA-approved countermeasures that can treat radiation-induced GI injury. To meet this critical need, Synedgen Inc., has developed a glycopolymer radiomitigator (MIIST305) that is specifically targeted to the GI tract which acts by intercalating into the mucus layer and the glycocalyx of intestinal epithelial cells that could potentially ameliorate the deleterious effects of radiation. Male C57BL/6J adult mice were exposed to 13 Gy total body X-irradiation with 5% bone marrow shielding and MIIST305 was administered on days 1, 3, and 5 post-irradiation. Approximately 85% of the animals survived the irradiation exposure and were apparently healthy until the end of the 30-day study period. In contrast, no control, vehicle-treated animals survived past day 10 at this radiation dose. We show that MIIST305 improved intestinal epithelial barrier function and suppressed systemic inflammatory response mediated by radiation-induced pro-inflammatory cytokines. Taxonomic profiling and community structure of the fecal and colonic mucosa microbiota demonstrated that MIIST305 treatment increased microbial diversity and restored abundance of beneficial commensal bacteria, including Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium genera, while suppressing potentially pathogenic bacteria compared with vehicle-treated animals. In summary, MIIST305 is a novel GI-targeted therapeutic that greatly enhances survival in mice exposed to lethal radiation and protects the GI tract from injury by restoring a balanced gut microbiota and effectively reducing proinflammatory responses. Further development of this drug as an FDA-approved medical countermeasure will be of critical importance in the event of a radiation public health emergency.

The mysterious association between adiponectin and endometriosis

Adiponectin is a pleiotropic cytokine predominantly derived from adipose tissue. In addition to its role in regulating energy metabolism, adiponectin may also be related to estrogen-dependent diseases, and many studies have confirmed its involvement in mediating diverse biological processes, including apoptosis, autophagy, inflammation, angiogenesis, and fibrosis, all of which are related to the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Although many researchers have reported low levels of adiponectin in patients with endometriosis and suggested that it may serve as a protective factor against the development of the disease. Therefore, the purpose of this review was to provide an up-to-date summary of the roles of adiponectin and its downstream cytokines and signaling pathways in the aforementioned biological processes. Further systematic studies on the molecular and cellular mechanisms of action of adiponectin may provide novel insights into the pathophysiology of endometriosis as well as potential therapeutic targets.

Exploring exercise-driven exerkines: unraveling the regulation of metabolism and inflammation

Exercise has many beneficial effects that provide health and metabolic benefits. Signaling molecules are released from organs and tissues in response to exercise stimuli and are widely termed exerkines, which exert influence on a multitude of intricate multi-tissue processes, such as muscle, adipose tissue, pancreas, liver, cardiovascular tissue, kidney, and bone. For the metabolic effect, exerkines regulate the metabolic homeostasis of organisms by increasing glucose uptake and improving fat synthesis. For the anti-inflammatory effect, exerkines positively influence various chronic inflammation-related diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and atherosclerosis. This review highlights the prospective contribution of exerkines in regulating metabolism, augmenting the anti-inflammatory effects, and providing additional advantages associated with exercise. Moreover, a comprehensive overview and analysis of recent advancements are provided in this review, in addition to predicting future applications used as a potential biomarker or therapeutic target to benefit patients with chronic diseases.

Single nucleotide polymorphisms rs7799039 and rs2167270 in leptin gene and elevated serum levels of adiponectin predispose Iranians to Behçet's disease

BACKGROUND

Behçet's Disease (BD) is a chronic autoimmune disease with unknown etiology. Adipokines due to their roles in the regulation of immune responses might be important in the induction and progression of BD.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

This case-control study included 340 patients with BD and 310 healthy controls. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in adiponectin (rs266729 and rs1501299) and leptin (rs7799039 and rs2167270) genes were determined using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) and serum levels of adipokines were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

RESULTS

A higher frequency of leptin rs7799039 GG, AG, and AG +GG genotypes and G allele was revealed in patients. Besides, patients had more leptin rs2167270 AG and AG +AA genotypes and A allele. Furthermore, rs2167270 AA genotype and A allele were more frequently seen in total and female patients who had genital aphthous. Patients had significantly more serum levels of adiponectin while those with genital aphthous had significantly more leptin levels. No significant association was observed between genotypes and alleles of adiponectin SNPs and BD.

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicated that leptin gene polymorphisms might predispose Iranian individuals to BD. Besides, elevated serum levels of adiponectin might facilitate BD pathogenesis.

Distinct roles of ADIPOR1 and ADIPOR2: A pan-cancer analysis

INTRODUCTION

AdipoR1 and AdipoR2 proteins, encoded by ADIPOR1 and ADIPOR2 genes respectively, are the receptors of adiponectin secrected by adipose tissue. Increasing studies have identified the vital role of adipose tissue in various diseases, including cancers. Hence, there is an urgent need to explore the roles of AdipoR1 and AdipoR2 in cancers.

METHODS

We conducted a comprehensive pan-cancer analysis for the roles of AdipoR1 and AdipoR2 via several public databases, including expression differences, prognostic value, and the correlations with tumor microenvironment, epigenetic modification, and drug sensitivity.

RESULTS

Both ADIPOR1 and ADIPOR2 genes are dysregulated in most cancers, but their genomic alteration frequencies are low. In addition, they are also correlated with the prognosis of some cancers. Although they are not strongly correlated with tumor mutation burden (TMB) or microsatellite instability (MSI), ADIPOR1/2 genes display a significant association with cancer stemness, tumor immune microenvironment, immune checkpoint genes (especially CD274 and NRP1), and drug sensitivity.

DISCUSSION

ADIPOR1 and ADIPOR2 play critical roles in diverse cancers, and it is a potential strategy to treat tumors through targeting ADIPOR1 and ADIPOR2.

Adiponectin: friend or foe in obesity and inflammation

Adiponectin is an adipokine predominantly produced by fat cells, circulates and exerts insulin-sensitizing, cardioprotective and anti-inflammatory effects. Dysregulation of adiponectin and/or adiponectin signaling is implicated in a number of metabolic diseases such as obesity, insulin resistance, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. However, while the insulin-sensitizing and cardioprotective effects of adiponectin have been widely appreciated in the field, the obesogenic and anti-inflammatory effects of adiponectin are still of much debate. Understanding the physiological function of adiponectin is critical for adiponectin-based therapeutics for the treatment of metabolic diseases.

Adiponectin: a pleiotropic hormone with multifaceted roles

Adipose tissue mostly composed of different types of fat is one of the largest endocrine organs in the body playing multiple intricate roles including but not limited to energy storage, metabolic homeostasis, generation of heat, participation in immune functions and secretion of a number of biologically active factors known as adipokines. The most abundant of them is adiponectin. This adipocite-derived hormone exerts pleiotropic actions and exhibits insulin-sensitizing, antidiabetic, anti-obesogenic, anti-inflammatory, antiatherogenic, cardio- and neuroprotective properties. Contrariwise to its protective effects against various pathological events in different cell types, adiponectin may have links to several systemic diseases and malignances. Reduction in adiponectin levels has an implication in COVID-19-associated respiratory failure, which is attributed mainly to a phenomenon called 'adiponectin paradox'. Ample evidence about multiple functions of adiponectin in the body was obtained from animal, mostly rodent studies. Our succinct review is entirely about multifaceted roles of adiponectin and mechanisms of its action in different physiological and pathological states.

Predicting disease course in ulcerative colitis using stool proteins identified through an aptamer-based screen

In the search for improved stool biomarkers for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), an aptamer-based screen of 1129 stool proteins was conducted using stool samples from an IBD cohort. Here we report that of the 20 proteins subsequently validated by ELISA, stool Ferritin, Fibrinogen, Haptoglobin, Hemoglobin, Lipocalin-2, MMP-12, MMP-9, Myeloperoxidase, PGRP-S, Properdin, Resistin, Serpin A4, and TIMP-1 are significantly elevated in both ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) compared to controls. When tested in a longitudinal cohort of 50 UC patients at 4 time-points, fecal Fibrinogen, MMP-8, PGRP-S, and TIMP-2 show the strongest positive correlation with concurrent PUCAI and PGA scores and are superior to fecal calprotectin. Unlike fecal calprotectin, baseline stool Fibrinogen, MMP-12, PGRP-S, TIMP-1, and TIMP-2 can predict clinical remission at Week-4. Here we show that stool proteins identified using the comprehensive aptamer-based screen are superior to fecal calprotectin alone in disease monitoring and prediction in IBD.

Dimethyl fumarate abridged tauo-/amyloidopathy in a D-Galactose/ovariectomy-induced Alzheimer's-like disease: Modulation of AMPK/SIRT-1, AKT/CREB/BDNF, AKT/GSK-3β, adiponectin/Adipo1R, and NF-κB/IL-1β/ROS trajectories

Since the role of estrogen in postmenauposal-associated dementia is still debatable, this issue urges the search for other medications. Dimethyl fumarate (DMF) is a drug used for the treatment of multiple sclerosis and has shown a neuroprotective effect against other neurodegenerative diseases. Accordingly, the present study aimed to evaluate the effect of DMF on an experimental model of Alzheimer disease (AD) using D-galactose (D-Gal) administered to ovariectomized (OVX) rats, resembling a postmenopausal dementia paradigm. Adult 18-month old female Wistar rats were allocated into sham-operated and OVX/D-Gal groups that were either left untreated or treated with DMF for 56 days starting three weeks after sham-operation or ovariectomy. DMF succeeded to ameliorate cognitive (learning/short- and long-term memory) deficits and to enhance the dampened overall activity (NOR, Barnes-/Y-maze tests). These behavioral upturns were associated with increased intact neurons (Nissl stain) and a reduction in OVX/D-Gal-mediated hippocampal CA1 neurodegeneration and astrocyte activation assessed as GFAP immunoreactivity. Mechanistically, DMF suppressed the hippocampal contents of AD-surrogate markers; viz., apolipoprotein (APO)-E1, BACE1, Aβ42, and hyperphosphorylated Tau. Additionally, DMF has augmented the neuroprotective parameters p-AKT, its downstream target CREB and BDNF. Besides, it activated AMPK, and enhanced SIRT-1, as well as antioxidant defenses (SOD, GSH). On the other hand, DMF inhibited the transcription factor NF-κB, IL-1β, adiponectin/adiponectin receptor type (AdipoR)1, GSK-3β, and MDA. Accordingly, in this postmenopausal AD model, DMF treatment by pursuing the adiponectin/AdipoR1, AMPK/SIRT-1, AKT/CREB/BDNF, AKT/GSK-3β, and APO-E1 quartet hampered the associated tauo-/amyloidopathy and NF-κB-mediated oxidative/inflammatory responses to advance insights into its anti-amnesic effect.

CTRP1 Aggravates Cardiac Dysfunction Post Myocardial Infarction by Modulating TLR4 in Macrophages

CTRP1 (C1q/TNF-α [tumour necrosis factor-α]-related protein 1), an adiponectin paralog, is associated with diabetes and adverse events in cardiovascular disease. However, its effect on cardiac function post myocardial infarction (MI) is unclear. Our study aimed to explore the role of CTRP1 in cardiac function post MI. CTRP1 global knockout mice were subjected to left anterior descending ligation to establish the MI model. C57BL6J mice were also administered recombinant CTRP1 protein (200 μg/kg) 7 days post MI. As a result, mice with CTRP1 deficiency exhibited an increased survival rate, a reduced infarct area, improved cardiac function and decreased inflammation and oxidative stress levels at 4 weeks post MI compared with those of mice receiving the CRTP1 injection, whose conditions deteriorated. However, cardiomyocytes with either CTRP1 silencing or CTRP1 treatment showed few differences in inflammation and oxidative stress levels compared with those of the control under hypoxic conditions. The activation of macrophages isolated from CTRP1-deficient mice was decreased in response to interferon-γ, while CTRP1 enhanced the activation of macrophages in response to interferon-γ. Macrophage scavengers and clodronate liposomes antagonized the effects of CTRP1 injection in mice. We also found that CTRP1 regulated macrophage activation via adiponectin receptor 1, which binds to TLR4 on the macrophage membrane. TLR4 knockout also antagonized the effects of the CTRP1 protein on mice with MI. Taken together, these data indicate that CTRP1 supresses cardiac function post MI via TLR4 on macrophages. Targeting CTRP1 may become a promising therapeutic approach to cardiac dysfunction post MI.

The role of adiponectin in periodontitis: Current state and future prospects

Adiponectin (APN), which is an adipokine primarily secreted by adipose tissue into the peripheral blood, exerts anti-inflammatory and metabolic regulatory functions in many systemic inflammatory diseases. Periodontitis is a localized inflammatory disease and is also the sixth-leading complication of diabetes. Uncontrolled periodontal inflammation gradually destructs the periodontal supporting apparatus and leads to the consequent loss of teeth. Recently, emerging evidence has revealed an association between APN and periodontitis. Herein, we summarize the basic information of APN and its receptor agonists. We also overview current studies considering the role of APN in periodontitis and discuss the potential mechanisms in terms of inflammation and bone metabolism. At last, we outline the correlation between APN and systemic diseases related periodontitis. Above all, APN and its agonists are promising candidates for the treatment of periodontitis, while the underlying mechanisms and clinical translational application require further exploration.

Role of Adipose Tissue in Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs), chronic inflammatory disorders affecting the gastrointestinal tract, include Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. There are increasing clinical and experimental data showing that obesity, especially visceral adiposity, plays a substantial role in the pathogenesis of IBD. Obesity seems to be an important risk factor also for IBD disease severity and clinical outcomes. Visceral adipose tissue is an active multifunctional metabolic organ involved in lipid storage and immunological and endocrine activity. Bowel inflammation penetrates the surrounding adipose tissue along the mesentery. Mesenteric fat serves as a barrier to inflammation and controls immune responses to the translocation of gut bacteria. At the same time, mesenteric adipose tissue may be the principal source of cytokines and adipokines responsible for inflammatory processes associated with IBD. This review is particularly focusing on the potential role of adipokines in IBD pathogenesis and their possible use as promising therapeutic targets.

ROS Dependent Antifungal and Anticancer Modulations of Piper colubrinum Osmotin

Osmotin, a plant defense protein, has functional similarity to adiponectin, an insulin sensitizingsensitising hormone secreted by adipocytes. We speculated that Piper colubrinum Osmotin (PcOSM) could have functional roles in obesity-related cancers, especially breast cancer. Immunofluorescence assays, flow cytometry, cell cycle analysis and a senescence assay were employed to delineate the activity in MDAMB231 breast cancer cell line. PcOSM pre-treated P. nigrum leaves showed significant reduction in disease symptoms correlated with high ROS production. In silico analysis predicted that PcOSM has higher binding efficiency with adiponectin receptor compared to adiponectin. PcOSM was effectively taken up by MDAMB231 cancer cells which resulted in marked increase in intracellular ROS levels leading to senescence and cell cycle arrest in G2/M stage. This study provides evidence on the ROS mediated direct inhibitory activity of the plant derived osmotin protein on the phytopathogen Phytophthora capsici, and the additional functional roles of this plant defense protein on cancer cells through inducing ROS associated senescence. The strong leads produced from this study could be pursued further to obtain more insights into the therapeutic potential of osmotin in human cancers.

Adiponectin: Structure, Physiological Functions, Role in Diseases, and Effects of Nutrition

Adiponectin (a protein consisting of 244 amino acids and characterized by a molecular weight of 28 kDa) is a cytokine that is secreted from adipose tissues (adipokine). Available evidence suggests that adiponectin is involved in a variety of physiological functions, molecular and cellular events, including lipid metabolism, energy regulation, immune response and inflammation, and insulin sensitivity. It has a protective effect on neurons and neural stem cells. Adiponectin levels have been reported to be negatively correlated with cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes, and shown to be affected (i.e., significantly increased) by proper healthy nutrition. The present review comprehensively overviews the role of adiponectin in a range of diseases, showing that it can be used as a biomarker for diagnosing these disorders as well as a target for monitoring the effectiveness of preventive and treatment interventions.

Mechanisms of Adiponectin in Regulation of Proinflammatory Cytokine Production and Migration in Macrophages

Introduction

Evidence indicate that adiponectin may exert pro-inflammatory effects on inflammatory cells. We have found that adiponectin knockout decreased inflammatory reaction and tubular damage in the ischemia-reperfusion kidney in APN-knockout mice. Globular adiponectin and full-length adiponectin (g-APN and f-APN) were used in this study to investigate the effects of adiponectin on proinflammatory cytokines production and migration in Raw 264.7 cells.

Methods

Proinflammatory cytokines production was detected by real-time RT-PCR. NF-kappaB activation was interrupted through Ad-DN-IκBα or SN-50 to confirm how g-APN induces proinflammatory cytokines production. The siRNA against AdipoR1 and AdipoR2 was investigated to uncover the signaling pathway that may involve in NF-kappaB activation and migration in Raw 264.7 cells.

Results

g-APN, not f-APN, was found triggering the production of inflammatory cytokine MIP-2, IL-6, TNFα, and MCP-1 in Raw 264.7 cells. NF-kappaB Inhibition by Ad-DN-IκBα expression or cell-permeable NF-κB inhibitor SN-50 could decrease NF-kappaB nuclear translocation and subsequently decrease inflammatory cytokine expression triggered by globular ANP. However, AdipoR1 and AdipoR2 were not found involved in NF-kappaB activation in this study. Full-length APN, not g-APN, was involved in the promotion of macrophage migration. The migration induced by full-length APN could be inhibited by knockdown of AdipoR1 expression with siRNA. The migration effect could also be inhibited by PI₃Kγ inhibitor, AS-605240.

Discussion

These results suggested that full-length adiponectin increases macrophage migration through Adiponectin-AdipoR1-PI₃Kgamma signaling pathway. However, NF-κB activation induced by g-APN in this study was independent of AdipoR1 or AdipoR2. The exact signaling pathway of NF-κB activation by adiponectin should be further studied to find a new anti-inflammatory target.

Association between Serum Adiponectin and Atrial Fibrillation: A Case-Control Study Stratified by Age and Gender

Background

Circulating adiponectin has been suggested to be associated with atrial fibrillation (AF). However, whether the association differs by age and gender remains unknown. We performed a case-control study to evaluate the above association.

Methods

AF patients who underwent 24-hour long-range 12-channel electrocardiogram examination at our center were included in this study, and people with normal sinus rhythm (NSR) were included as controls. All participants underwent echocardiography and heart rate variability tests. Biochemical parameters and adiponectin levels were also evaluated. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses were used to determine the predictive efficacy of adiponectin for AF, and multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the potential independent predictors of AF.

Results

Overall, 84 patients with AF and 84 people with NSR were included. Serum adiponectin was significantly higher in AF patients compared to that in controls (P < 0.001). ROC analysis showed that higher serum adiponectin (>6.098 μg/mL) had predictive efficacy for AF, with an area under the curve of 0.660 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 577–0.742). The results of multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that higher adiponectin was an independent predictor of AF in the overall participants (odds ratio [OR] 1.224, 95% CI 1.018–1.471, P=0.032). Subgroup analysis showed that higher adiponectin was independently associated with AF in women (OR 1.893, 95% CI 1.160–3.089, P=0.011) and in patients aged < 65 years (OR 1.453, 95% CI 1.023–2.064, P=0.037), but not in men or those aged ≥ 65 years.

Conclusions

Higher serum adiponectin level was independently associated with higher odds for AF in women and in participants <65 years old, but not in men or those aged ≥65 years.

Overexpression of Adiponectin Receptor 1 Inhibits Brown and Beige Adipose Tissue Activity in Mice

Adult humans and mice possess significant classical brown adipose tissues (BAT) and, upon cold-induction, acquire brown-like adipocytes in certain depots of white adipose tissues (WAT), known as beige adipose tissues or WAT browning/beiging. Activating thermogenic classical BAT or WAT beiging to generate heat limits diet-induced obesity or type-2 diabetes in mice. Adiponectin is a beneficial adipokine resisting diabetes, and causing “healthy obese” by increasing WAT expansion to limit lipotoxicity in other metabolic tissues during high-fat feeding. However, the role of its receptors, especially adiponectin receptor 1 (AdipoR1), on cold-induced thermogenesis in vivo in BAT and in WAT beiging is still elusive. Here, we established a cold-induction procedure in transgenic mice over-expressing AdipoR1 and applied a live 3-D [¹⁸F] fluorodeoxyglucose-PET/CT (¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT) scanning to measure BAT activity by determining glucose uptake in cold-acclimated transgenic mice. Results showed that cold-acclimated mice over-expressing AdipoR1 had diminished cold-induced glucose uptake, enlarged adipocyte size in BAT and in browned WAT, and reduced surface BAT/body temperature in vivo. Furthermore, decreased gene expression, related to thermogenic Ucp1, BAT-specific markers, BAT-enriched mitochondrial markers, lipolysis and fatty acid oxidation, and increased expression of whitening genes in BAT or in browned subcutaneous inguinal WAT of AdipoR1 mice are congruent with results of PET/CT scanning and surface body temperature in vivo. Moreover, differentiated brown-like beige adipocytes isolated from pre-adipocytes in subcutaneous WAT of transgenic AdipoR1 mice also had similar effects of lowered expression of thermogenic Ucp1, BAT selective markers, and BAT mitochondrial markers. Therefore, this study combines in vitro and in vivo results with live 3-D scanning and reveals one of the many facets of the adiponectin receptors in regulating energy homeostasis, especially in the involvement of cold-induced thermogenesis.

Dietary Quercetin Alleviated DSS-induced Colitis in Mice Through Several Possible Pathways by Transcriptome Analysis

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of inflammatory bowel disease is rapidly increasing around the world. Quercetin is a flavonoid commonly found in vegetables and fruits and has been reported to exert numerous pharmacological activities such as enhancing antioxidant capacity or suppressing inflammation.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to explore whether quercetin was effective for IBD and the underlying mechanism of quercetin for the ameliorative effects on the DSS-induced colitis in mice.

METHODS

Thirty-six mice were randomly assigned to three treatments, including the control group (Ctr), DSS-induced colitis group (DSS) and DSS-induced colitis supplemented with 500 ppm quercetin (DQ500). Colitis was induced by DSS intake, and body weight was recorded every day. After six days administration of DSS, intestinal permeability was measured, and the liver was taken for antioxidant enzyme tests. Colonic tissue was taken for the histopathlogical score and RNA-sequencing analysis.

RESULTS

In this experiment, dietary quercetin for 500ppm alleviated the DSS-induced colitis, possibly by strengthening intestinal integrity, liver antioxidant capacity. Based on the results of the transcriptome of colon tissue, several key genes were modulated by quercetin. ERK1/2-FKBP pathway and RXR-STAT3 pathway were involved in the development of IBD, furthermore, in the down-regulation of S100a8/9, FBN2 contributed to lowering the risk of colongenesis.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrated that dietary quercetin alleviated the DSS-induced colitis in mice. This is most likely due to its beneficial effects on intestinal integrity and modulation of several key pathways. Based on our research, quercetin was a promising candidate for IBD and its pharmaceutical effects on both IBD and colongenesis need further research.

Effect of Leptin on Chronic Inflammatory Disorders: Insights to Therapeutic Target to Prevent Further Cardiovascular Complication

In response to obesity-associated chronic inflammatory disorders, adipose tissue releases a biologically active peptide known as leptin. Leptin activates the secretion of chemical mediators, which contribute to the pathogenesis of chronic inflammatory disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and psoriasis. Conversely, adiposity and obesity are the major aggravating risk factors in the pathogenesis of metabolic syndrome (MetS), including type II diabetes mellitus and obesity-associated hypertension. Elevated level of leptin in obesity-associated hypertension causes an increase in the production of aldosterone, which also results in elevation of arterial blood pressure. Hyperleptinemia is associated with the progress of the atherosclerosis through secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines, like interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), IL-17, and other cytokines to promote inflammation. The release of those cytokines leads to chronic inflammatory disorders and obesity-associated MetS. Thus, the aberrant leptin level in both MetS and chronic inflammatory disorders also leads to the complication of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Therapeutic target of leptin regarding its pro-inflammatory effect and dysregulated sympathetic nervous system activity may prevent further cardiovascular complication. This review mainly assesses the mechanism of leptin on the pathogenesis and further cardiovascular risk complication of chronic inflammatory disorders.

Adiponectin is Associated with Neutrophils to Lymphocyte Ratio in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Disproportionate systemic inflammation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is associated with declining lung functions and comorbidities. Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) have emerged as valuable markers of the systemic inflammation in COPD. Adiponectin (Acpr30) circulates in serum as complexes of different molecular weight (HMW, MMW, LMW) with multifaceted metabolic and anti-inflammatory properties implicated in airway pathophysiology. We aimed to investigate the association between Acpr30 and its oligomers and the NLR and PLR in COPD patients. Seventy stable COPD patients were enrolled. Acrp30 serum levels and the HMW oligomers as well as hematological parameters and their ratio were evaluated. Both NLR and PLR are associated with lower BMI. Interestingly, total Acpr30 is negatively associated with NLR but not with PLR; after adjusting for age, BMI and FEV1, Acpr30 was independently associated with NLR. Conversely, HMW Acpr30 and HMW/Acpr30 ratio were positively correlated to NLR. The association of Acpr30, HMW Acpr30 and HMW/totalAcpr30 ratio with NLR but not with PLR in COPD patients indicates that Acrp30 oligomerization could represent a biological mechanism interfering with systemic inflammation in COPD. Further studies in larger cohorts of patients are required to confirm these results.

LRRK2 Regulates CPT1A to Promote β-Oxidation in HepG2 Cells

Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) is involved in lipid metabolism; however, the role of LRRK2 in lipid metabolism to affect non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is still unclear. In the mouse model of NAFLD induced by a high-fat diet, we observed that LRRK2 was decreased in livers. In HepG2 cells, exposure to palmitic acid (PA) down-regulated LRRK2. Overexpression and knockdown of LRRK2 in HepG2 cells were performed to further investigate the roles of LRRK2 in lipid metabolism. Our results showed that β-oxidation in HepG2 cells was promoted by LRRK2 overexpression, whereas LRRK2 knockdown inhibited β-oxidation. The critical enzyme of β-oxidation, carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1A (CPT1A), was positively regulated by LRRK2. Our data suggested that the regulation of CPT1A by LRRK2 may be via the activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα). The overexpression of LRRK2 reduced the concentration of a pro-inflammatory cytokine, tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), induced by PA. The increase in β-oxidation may promote lipid catabolism to suppress inflammation induced by PA. These results indicated that LRRK2 participated in the regulation of β-oxidation and suggested that the decreased LRRK2 may promote inflammation by suppressing β-oxidation in the liver.

A novel Adiponectin receptor (AdipoR) involved in regulating cytokines production and apoptosis of haemocytes in oyster Crassostrea gigas

Adiponectin receptors (AdipoRs) comprise a seven-transmembrane domain-containing protein family, which specifically recognize adiponectin (APN) and play critical roles in the immunological and physiological processes in vertebrates. In the present study, a novel AdipoR is identified from oyster Crassostrea gigas (designated as CgAdipoR). The full-length cDNA of CgAdipoR is of 1209 bp encoding a polypeptide of 343 amino acids. There is an N-terminal domain, a Hly III domain, and a C-terminal domain in CgAdipoR. After the transfection of CgAdipoR, the level of intracellular Ca²⁺ into HEK293T cells increases significantly (1.36-fold, p < 0.05) after APN incubation. The mRNA transcripts of CgAdipoR are widely distributed in all the tested tissues, with the highest expression level in haemocytes (3.20-fold of that in hepatopancreas, p < 0.05). After lipopolysaccharide (LPS), Vibrio splendidus and polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (poly (I:C)) stimulations, the mRNA expression of CgAdipoR in haemocytes is significantly up-regulated and reached the highest level at 24 h (15.07-fold, p < 0.01), 6 h (4.39-fold, p < 0.01) and 24 h (5.62-fold, p < 0.01) compared to control group, respectively. After CgAdipoR is interfered by specific CgAdipoR-dsRNA, the expression level of interleukins (CgIL17-1, CgIL17-2, CgIL17-3 and CgIL17-5) in haemocytes decreases significantly (p < 0.01) at 24 h post LPS stimulation, while the expression level of CgTNF-1 increases significantly (1.68-fold, p < 0.01), compared to that in the dsEGFP group. In CgAdipoR dsRNA-injected oysters, the mRNA expressions of anti-apoptotic B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) in haemocytes significantly decreases at 24 h after LPS challenge, which is (0.58-fold, p < 0.05) of that in dsEGFP-injected oysters, while the apoptotic rate of haemocytes is significantly up-regulated (1.93-fold of that in dsEGFP group, p < 0.05). These results collectively suggest that CgAdipoR plays an important role in the immune response of oysters by regulating the expressions of inflammatory cytokines and haemocyte apoptosis.

Multifaceted Physiological Roles of Adiponectin in Inflammation and Diseases

Adiponectin is the richest adipokine in human plasma, and it is mainly secreted from white adipose tissue. Adiponectin circulates in blood as high-molecular, middle-molecular, and low-molecular weight isoforms. Numerous studies have demonstrated its insulin-sensitizing, anti-atherogenic, and anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally, decreased serum levels of adiponectin is associated with chronic inflammation of metabolic disorders including Type 2 diabetes, obesity, and atherosclerosis. However, recent studies showed that adiponectin could have pro-inflammatory roles in patients with autoimmune diseases. In particular, its high serum level was positively associated with inflammation severity and pathological progression in rheumatoid arthritis, chronic kidney disease, and inflammatory bowel disease. Thus, adiponectin seems to have both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory effects. This indirectly indicates that adiponectin has different physiological roles according to an isoform and effector tissue. Knowledge on the specific functions of isoforms would help develop potential anti-inflammatory therapeutics to target specific adiponectin isoforms against metabolic disorders and autoimmune diseases. This review summarizes the current roles of adiponectin in metabolic disorders and autoimmune diseases.

Gene expression profiling of the bone trabecula in patients with osteonecrosis of the femoral head by RNA sequencing

Early diagnosis and treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is challenging. Bone trabecula play a vital role in the severity and progression of ONFH. In the present study, the investigators used gene expression profiling of bone trabecula to investigate gene alterations in ONFH patients. Osteonecrotic bone trabecula (ONBT) such as necrosis, fibrosis, and lacuna were confirmed by histological examination in the patients. The adjacent 'normal' bone trabecula (ANBT) did not show any pathological changes. Gene sequencing data revealed that although ANBT showed no significant histological changes, alteration of mRNA profiling in ANBT was observed, similar to that in ONBT. Our results indicated that the alteration of mRNA profiling in ANBT may cause normal bone tissue to develop into necrotic bone. RNA-seq data indicated that 2,297 differentially abundant mRNAs were found in the ONBT group (1,032 upregulated and 1,265 downregulated) and 1,523 differentially abundant mRNAs in the ANBT group (744 upregulated and 799 downregulated) compared with the healthy control group. Gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis suggested that fatty acid metabolism and degradation were the main zones enriched with differentially expressed genes (DEG). Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis indicated that peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPAR-γ) pathway was the most significantly regulated pathway. Lipocalin-2 (LCN2), an osteoblast-enriched secreted protein, was significantly decreased in ONBT suggesting that downregulation of LCN2 might affect lipid metabolism and lead to hyperlipidemia, and thus promote pathogenesis of ONFH.

Association of circulating resistin and adiponectin levels with Kawasaki disease: A meta-analysis

The present meta-analysis was performed to examine the association between circulating blood adipokine levels and Kawasaki disease (KD). Studies were identified by searching various databases, including Web of Science, EMBASE, PubMed, Wanfang and China National Knowledge Infrastructure. After the studies were pooled, the mean difference (MD) and corresponding 95% CI were calculated. Subgroup analyses and publication bias detection were also performed. The Cochrane Q test and I² statistics were performed using Review Manager software (version 5.3) to test for heterogeneity. A Begg's test was used to assess publication bias and STATA software (version 12.0) was used for statistical analysis. The results revealed that the KD group exhibited higher levels of resistin compared with those in the healthy controls or disease controls (non-KD; MD=20.76, 95% CI=16.16-25.36, P<0.001; MD=21.27, 95% CI=14.24-28.29, P<0.001, respectively). In addition, when compared with those in patients exhibiting non-coronary artery lesions (NCAL), those with coronary artery lesions (CAL) had higher levels of adiponectin and resistin (MD=1.00, 95% CI=0.06-1.96, P=0.04; MD=2.77, 95% CI=1.32-4.22, P<0.001). Furthermore, compared with those in the inactive-phase group, patients in the active-phase group exhibited higher levels of resistin (MD=17.73, 95% CI=12.82-22.65, P<0.001). In conclusion, the present meta-analysis indicated that resistin levels were elevated in patients with KD. It was also revealed that circulating resistin and adiponectin levels in the CAL group were significantly increased compared with those in patients with NCAL. Furthermore, the active group had higher levels of resistin than the inactive group. The results of these meta-analyses indicated that resistin may serve an important role in the pathogenesis of KD and may therefore be used as biomarkers for the diagnosis of KD, whereas adiponectin may only serve an important role in the pathogenesis of CAL and may therefore be used as a biomarker to distinguish CAL from NCAL.

Increased Risk of Diabetes in Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients: A Nationwide Population-based Study in Korea

The association of diabetes with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) remains unclear. The risk of diabetes in patients with IBD compared with non-IBD controls was investigated. Using the National Health Insurance database of South Korea, 8070 patients with IBD based on the International Classification of Disease 10th revision (ICD-10) codes and rare intractable disease codes for Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) were compared with 40,350 non-IBD individuals (2010–2014). Newly diagnosed diabetes identified using ICD-10 codes and the prescription of anti-diabetic medication by the end of the follow-up period (2016) was investigated. During a mean follow-up of 5.1 years, the incidence of diabetes in patients with IBD was significantly higher compared with controls after adjusting for serum glucose levels and steroid use (23.19 vs. 22.02 per 1000 person-years; hazard ratio (HR), 1.135; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.048–1.228). The risk of diabetes was significantly higher in patients with CD (HR, 1.677; 95% CI, 1.408–1.997), but not in UC (HR, 1.061; 95% CI, 0.973–1.156). The effect of IBD on the development of diabetes was significantly more prominent in younger patients (p < 0.001). Patients with CD are at a higher risk of diabetes. Regular monitoring for diabetes is recommended, even in younger CD patients who do not use steroid medication.

The roles of the COX2/PGE2/EP axis in therapeutic resistance

Therapeutic resistance has been and remains to be the major challenge in developing successful treatments for different cancers and therefore, understanding the underlying mechanisms in the development of therapeutic resistance is crucial in combating cancers. Multiple mechanisms underlie the development of therapeutic resistance, and the signaling pathways involved in cancer stem cell repopulation, enhanced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), inflammatory infiltration, and immunosuppression play pivotal roles in this process. Accumulating evidence indicates that the COX2/PGE2/EP axis plays crucial roles not only in tumor development including initiation and progression but also in the development of therapeutic resistance. In this review, we will first dissect the relationship between the COX2/PGE2/EP axis and therapeutic resistance by focusing on the roles of the COX2/PGE2/EP axis in cancer stem cell repopulation, EMT, and anti-cancer immunity. Then, we will summarize the currently available compounds/drugs targeting each component of this axis as well as some of the underlying mechanisms. We hope that better understanding the underlying mechanisms of the functional compounds will be helpful in seeking additive and/or synergistic effects against therapeutic resistance without or with minimal adverse consequence.