The Interplay Between TGF-β Signaling and Cell Metabolism

BATF promotes tumor progression and association with FDG PET-derived parameters in colorectal cancer

PURPOSE

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the expression and function of basic leucine zipper ATF-like transcription factor (BATF) in colorectal cancer (CRC), and its correlation with 2-deoxy-2[18F]fluoro-D-glucose (18F-FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) parameters.

METHODS

The TIMER database, GEPIA database, TCGA, and GEO database were used to analyze the expression profile of BATF in human cancers. The reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR and western blot analyses were used to evaluate the mRNA level and protein expression in different CRC cell lines. The expression of BATF in SW620 and HCT116 cells was silenced and cell counting kit-8 assays and clonogenic assay were utilized to evaluate the role of BATF in CRC proliferation. The expression of tumor BATF and glucose transporter 1 (GLUT-1) were examined using immunohistochemical tools in 37 CRC patients undergoing preoperative 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging. The correlation between the PET/CT parameters and immunohistochemical result was evaluated.

RESULTS

In database, BATF was highly expressed in pan-cancer analyses, including CRC, and was associated with poor prognosis in CRC. In vitro, the results showed that knocking down of BATF expression could inhibit the proliferation of SW620 and HCT116 cells. In CRC patients, BATF expression was upregulated in tumor tissues compared with matched para-tumoral tissues, and was related with gender and Ki-67 levels. BATF expression was positively related to GLUT-1 expression and PET/CT parameters, including tumor size, maximum standard uptake value, metabolic tumor volume, and total lesion glycolysis. The multiple logistic analyses showed that SUVmax was an independent predictor of BATF expression. With 15.96 g/cm3 as the cutoff, sensitivity was 85.71%, specificity 82.61%, and area-under-the-curve 0.854.

CONCLUSION

BATF may be an oncogene associated with 18F-FDG PET/CT parameters in CRC. SUVmax may be an independent predictor of BATF expression.

Epigenetic and Metabolic Reprogramming of Fibroblasts in Crohn's Disease Strictures Reveals Histone Deacetylases as Therapeutic Targets

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

No effective therapeutic intervention exists for intestinal fibrosis in Crohn's disease [CD]. We characterized fibroblast subtypes, epigenetic and metabolic changes, and signalling pathways in CD fibrosis to inform future therapeutic strategies.

METHODS

We undertook immunohistochemistry, metabolic, signalling pathway and epigenetic [Transposase-Accessible Chromatin using sequencing] analyses associated with collagen production in CCD-18Co intestinal fibroblasts and primary fibroblasts isolated from stricturing [SCD] and non-stricturing [NSCD] CD small intestine. SCD/NSCD fibroblasts were cultured with TGFβ and valproic acid [VPA].

RESULTS

Stricturing CD was characterized by distinct histone deacetylase [HDAC] expression profiles, particularly HDAC1, HDAC2, and HDAC7. As a proxy for HDAC activity, reduced numbers of H3K27ac+ cells were found in SCD compared to NSCD sections. Primary fibroblasts had increased extracellular lactate [increased glycolytic activity] and intracellular hydroxyproline [increased collagen production] in SCD compared to NSCD cultures. The metabolic effect of TGFβ stimulation was reversed by the HDAC inhibitor VPA. SCD fibroblasts appeared 'metabolically primed' and responded more strongly to both TGFβ and VPA. Treatment with VPA revealed TGFβ-dependent and TGFβ-independent Collagen-I production in CCD-18Co cells and primary fibroblasts. VPA altered the epigenetic landscape with reduced chromatin accessibility at the COL1A1 and COL1A2 promoters.

CONCLUSIONS

Increased HDAC expression profiles, H3K27ac hypoacetylation, a significant glycolytic phenotype and metabolic priming characterize SCD-derived as compared to NSCD fibroblasts. Our results reveal a novel epigenetic component to Collagen-I regulation and TGFβ-mediated CD fibrosis. HDAC inhibitor therapy may 'reset' the epigenetic changes associated with fibrosis.

Fibroblasts' secretome from calcified and non-calcified dermis in Pseudoxanthoma elasticum differently contributes to elastin calcification

Pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE) is a rare disease characterized by ectopic calcification, however, despite the widely spread effect of pro/anti-calcifying systemic factors associated with this genetic metabolic condition, it is not known why elastic fibers in the same patient are mainly fragmented or highly mineralized in clinically unaffected (CUS) and affected (CAS) skin, respectively. Cellular morphology and secretome are investigated in vitro in CUS and CAS fibroblasts. Here we show that, compared to CUS, CAS fibroblasts exhibit: a) differently distributed and organized focal adhesions and stress fibers; b) modified cell-matrix interactions (i.e., collagen gel retraction); c) imbalance between matrix metalloproteinases and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases; d) differentially expressed pro- and anti-calcifying proteoglycans and elastic-fibers associated glycoproteins. These data emphasize that in the development of pathologic mineral deposition fibroblasts play an active role altering the stability of elastic fibers and of the extracellular matrix milieu creating a local microenvironment guiding the level of matrix remodeling at an extent that may lead to degradation (in CUS) or to degradation and calcification (in CAS) of the elastic component. In conclusion, this study contributes to a better understanding of the mechanisms of the mineral deposition that can be also associated with several inherited or age-related diseases (e.g., diabetes, atherosclerosis, chronic kidney diseases).

Elucidating VSMC phenotypic transition mechanisms to bridge insights into cardiovascular disease implications

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of death worldwide, despite advances in understanding cardiovascular health. Significant barriers still exist in effectively preventing and managing these diseases. Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are crucial for maintaining vascular integrity and can switch between contractile and synthetic functions in response to stimuli such as hypoxia and inflammation. These transformations play a pivotal role in the progression of cardiovascular diseases, facilitating vascular modifications and disease advancement. This article synthesizes the current understanding of the mechanisms and signaling pathways regulating VSMC phenotypic transitions, highlighting their potential as therapeutic targets in cardiovascular disease interventions.

Myocardial sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 expression and cardiac remodelling in patients with severe aortic stenosis: The BIO-AS study

AIM

Cardiac remodelling plays a major role in the prognosis of patients with aortic stenosis (AS) and could impact the benefits of aortic valve replacement. Our study aimed to evaluate the expression of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) gene and protein in patients with severe AS stratified in high gradient (HG) and low flow-low gradient (LF-LG) AS and its association with cardiac functional impairments.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Gene expression and protein levels of main biomarkers of cardiac fibrosis (galectin-3, sST2, serpin-4, procollagen type I amino-terminal peptide, procollagen type I carboxy-terminal propeptide, collagen, transforming growth factor [TGF]-β), inflammation (growth differentiation factor-15, interleukin-6, nuclear factor-κB [NF-κB]), oxidative stress (superoxide dismutase 1 [SOD1] and 2 [SOD2]), and cardiac metabolism (sodium-hydrogen exchanger, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor [PPAR]-α, PPAR-γ, glucose transporter 1 [GLUT1] and 4 [GLUT4]) were evaluated in blood samples and heart biopsies of 45 patients with AS. Our study showed SGLT2 gene and protein hyper-expression in patients with LF-LG AS, compared to controls and HG AS (p < 0.05). These differences remained significant even after adjusting for age, gender, body mass index, history of diabetes mellitus, arterial hypertension, and coronary artery disease. SGLT2 gene expression was positively correlated with: (i) TGF-β (r = 0.72, p < 0.001) and collagen (r = 0.73, p < 0.001) as markers of fibrosis; (ii) NF-κB (r = 0.36, p < 0.01) and myocardial interleukin-6 (r = 0.68, p < 0.001) as markers of inflammation: (iii) SOD2 (r = -0.38, p < 0.006) as a marker of oxidative stress; (iv) GLUT4 (r = 0.33, p < 0.02) and PPAR-α (r = 0.36, p < 0.01) as markers of cardiac metabolism.

CONCLUSION

In patients with LF-LG AS, SGLT2 gene and protein were hyper-expressed in cardiomyocytes and associated with myocardial fibrosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress.

Molecular Atlas of HER2+ Breast Cancer Cells Treated with Endogenous Ligands: Temporal Insights into Mechanisms of Trastuzumab Resistance

Trastuzumab therapy in HER2+ breast cancer patients has mixed success owing to acquired resistance to therapy. A detailed understanding of downstream molecular cascades resulting from trastuzumab resistance is yet to emerge. In this study, we investigate the cellular mechanisms underlying acquired resistance using trastuzumab-sensitive and -resistant cancer cells (BT474 and BT474R) treated with endogenous ligands EGF and HRG across time. We probe early receptor organization through microscopy and signaling events through multiomics measurements and assess the bioenergetic state through mitochondrial measurements. Integrative analyses of our measurements reveal significant alterations in EGF-treated BT474 HER2 membrane dynamics and robust downstream activation of PI3K/AKT/mTORC1 signaling. EGF-treated BT474R shows a sustained interferon-independent activation of the IRF1/STAT1 cascade, potentially contributing to trastuzumab resistance. Both cell lines exhibit temporally divergent metabolic demands and HIF1A-mediated stress responses. BT474R demonstrates inherently increased mitochondrial activity. HRG treatment in BT474R leads to a pronounced reduction in AR expression, affecting downstream lipid metabolism with implications for treatment response. Our results provide novel insights into mechanistic changes underlying ligand treatment in BT474 and BT474R and emphasize the pivotal role of endogenous ligands. These results can serve as a framework for furthering the understanding of trastuzumab resistance, with therapeutic implications for women with acquired resistance.

Multi-Organ Nutrigenomic Effects of Dietary Grapes in a Mouse Model

As a whole food, the potential health benefits of table grapes have been widely studied. Some individual constituents have garnered great attention, particularly resveratrol, but normal quantities in the diet are meniscal. On the other hand, the grape contains hundreds of compounds, many of which have antioxidant potential. Nonetheless, the achievement of serum or tissue concentrations of grape antioxidants sufficient to mediate a direct quenching effect is not likely, which supports the idea of biological responses being mediated by an indirect catalytic-type response. We demonstrate herein with Hsd:ICR (CD-1® Outbred, 18-24 g, 3-4 weeks old, female) mice that supplementation of a semi-synthetic diet with a grape surrogate, equivalent to the human consumption of 2.5 servings per day for 12 months, modulates gene expression in the liver, kidney, colon, and ovary. As might be expected when sampling changes in a pool of over 35,000 genes, there are numerous functional implications. Analysis of some specific differentially expressed genes suggests the potential of grape consumption to bolster metabolic detoxification and regulation of reactive oxygen species in the liver, cellular metabolism, and anti-inflammatory activity in the ovary and kidney. In the colon, the data suggest anti-inflammatory activity, suppression of mitochondrial dysfunction, and maintaining homeostasis. Pathway analysis reveals a combination of up- and down-regulation in the target tissues, primarily up-regulated in the kidney and down-regulated in the ovary. More broadly, based on these data, it seems logical to conclude that grape consumption leads to modulation of gene expression throughout the body, the consequence of which may help to explain the broad array of activities demonstrated in diverse tissues such as the brain, heart, eye, bladder, and colon. In addition, this work further supports the profound impact of nutrigenomics on mammalian phenotypic expression.

Changes in lung epithelial cell volatile metabolite profile induced by pro-fibrotic stimulation with TGF-β1

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have shown promise as potential biomarkers in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Measuring VOCs in the headspace ofin vitromodels of lung fibrosis may offer a method of determining the origin of those detected in exhaled breath. The aim of this study was to determine the VOCs associated with two lung cell lines (A549 and MRC-5 cells) and changes associated with stimulation of cells with the pro-fibrotic cytokine, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1. A dynamic headspace sampling method was used to sample the headspace of A549 cells and MRC-5 cells. These were compared to media control samples and to each other to identify VOCs which discriminated between cell lines. Cells were then stimulated with the TGF-β1 and samples were compared between stimulated and unstimulated cells. Samples were analysed using thermal desorption-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and supervised analysis was performed using sparse partial least squares-discriminant analysis (sPLS-DA). Supervised analysis revealed differential VOC profiles unique to each of the cell lines and from the media control samples. Significant changes in VOC profiles were induced by stimulation of cell lines with TGF-β1. In particular, several terpenoids (isopinocarveol, sativene and 3-carene) were increased in stimulated cells compared to unstimulated cells. VOC profiles differ between lung cell lines and alter in response to pro-fibrotic stimulation. Increased abundance of terpenoids in the headspace of stimulated cells may reflect TGF-β1 cell signalling activity and metabolic reprogramming. This may offer a potential biomarker target in exhaled breath in IPF.

The Dipeptide Gly-Pro (GP), Derived from Hibiscus sabdariffa, Exhibits Potent Antifibrotic Effects by Regulating the TGF-β1-ATF4-Serine/Glycine Biosynthesis Pathway

TGF-β1, a key fibrotic cytokine, enhances both the expression and translocation of the activating transcriptional factor 4 (ATF4) and activates the serine/glycine biosynthesis pathway, which is crucial for augmenting collagen production. Targeting the TGF-β1-ATF4-serine/glycine biosynthesis pathway might offer a promising therapeutic approach for fibrotic diseases. In this study, we aimed to identify a proline-containing dipeptide in Hibiscus sabdariffa plant cells that modulates collagen synthesis. We induced Hibiscus sabdariffa plant cells and screened for a proline-containing dipeptide that can suppress TGF-β1-induced collagen synthesis in fibroblasts. Analyses were conducted using LC-MS/MS, RT-qPCR, Western blot analysis, and immunocytochemistry. We identified Gly-Pro (GP) from the extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa plant cells as a dipeptide capable of suppressing TGF-β1-induced collagen production. GP inhibited the phosphorylation of Smad2/3 and reduced the expression of ATF4, which is upregulated by TGF-β1. Notably, GP also decreased the expression of enzymes involved in the serine/glycine biosynthesis and glucose metabolism pathways, such as PHGDH, PSAT1, PSPH, SHMT2, and SLC2A1. Our findings indicate that the peptide GP, derived from Hibiscus sabdariffa plant cells, exhibits potent anti-fibrotic effects, potentially through its regulation of the TGF-β1-ATF4-serine/glycine biosynthesis pathway.

Pax transactivation domain-interacting protein is required for preserving hematopoietic stem cell quiescence via regulating lysosomal activity

Hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) maintain lifetime whole blood hematopoiesis through self-renewal and differentiation. In order to sustain HSC stemness, most HSC reside in a quiescence state, which is affected by diverse cellular stress and intracellular signal transduction. How HSC accommodate those challenges to preserve lifetime capacity remains elusive. Here we show that Pax transactivation domain-interacting protein (PTIP) is required for preserving HSC quiescence via regulating lysosomal activity. Using a genetic knockout mouse model to specifically delete Ptip in HSC, we find that loss of Ptip promotes HSC exiting quiescence, and results in functional exhaustion of HSC. Mechanistically, Ptip loss increases lysosomal degradative activity of HSC. Restraining lysosomal activity restores the quiescence and repopulation potency of Ptip-/- HSC. Additionally, PTIP interacts with SMAD2/3 and mediates transforming growth factor-β signaling-induced HSC quiescence. Overall, our work uncovers a key role of PTIP in sustaining HSC quiescence via regulating lysosomal activity.

Elucidating shared biomarkers and pathways in kidney stones and diabetes: insights into novel therapeutic targets and the role of resveratrol

BACKGROUND

The pathogenic mechanisms shared between kidney stones and diabetes at the transcriptional level remain elusive, and the molecular mechanisms by which resveratrol exerts its protective effects against these conditions require further investigation.

METHODS

To address these gaps in knowledge, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of microarray and RNA-seq datasets to elucidate shared biomarkers and biological pathways involved in the pathogenesis of kidney stones and diabetes. An assortment of bioinformatic approaches was employed to illuminate the common molecular markers and associated pathways, thereby contributing to the identification of innovative therapeutic targets. Further investigation into the molecular mechanisms of resveratrol in preventing these conditions was conducted using molecular docking simulation and first-principles calculations.

RESULTS

The study identified 11 potential target genes associated with kidney stones and diabetes through the intersection of genes from weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) screening. Among these, Interleukin 11 (IL11) emerged as a pivotal hub gene and a potential diagnostic biomarker for both conditions, particularly in males. Expression analysis of IL11 demonstrated elevated levels in kidney stones and diabetes groups compared to controls. Additionally, IL11 exhibited correlations with specific cell types and differential expression in normal and pathological conditions. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) highlighted significant disparities in biological processes, pathways, and immune signatures associated with IL11. Moreover, molecular docking simulation of resveratrol towards IL11 and a first-principles investigation of Ca adsorption on the resveratrol surface provided structural evidence for the development of resveratrol-based drugs for these conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, this investigation illuminates the discovery of common molecular mechanisms underlying kidney stones and diabetes, unveils potential diagnostic biomarkers, and elucidates the significance of IL11 in these conditions. It also provides insights into IL11 as a promising therapeutic target and highlights the role of resveratrol. Nonetheless, further research is warranted to enhance our understanding of IL11 targeting mechanisms and address any limitations in the study.

Intrinsic TGF-β signaling attenuates proximal tubule mitochondrial injury and inflammation in chronic kidney disease

Excessive TGF-β signaling and mitochondrial dysfunction fuel chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression. However, inhibiting TGF-β failed to impede CKD in humans. The proximal tubule (PT), the most vulnerable renal segment, is packed with giant mitochondria and injured PT is pivotal in CKD progression. How TGF-β signaling affects PT mitochondria in CKD remained unknown. Here, we combine spatial transcriptomics and bulk RNAseq with biochemical analyses to depict the role of TGF-β signaling on PT mitochondrial homeostasis and tubulo-interstitial interactions in CKD. Male mice carrying specific deletion of Tgfbr2 in the PT have increased mitochondrial injury and exacerbated Th1 immune response in the aristolochic acid model of CKD, partly, through impaired complex I expression and mitochondrial quality control associated with a metabolic rewiring toward aerobic glycolysis in the PT cells. Injured S3T2 PT cells are identified as the main mediators of the maladaptive macrophage/dendritic cell activation in the absence of Tgfbr2. snRNAseq database analyses confirm decreased TGF-β receptors and a metabolic deregulation in the PT of CKD patients. This study describes the role of TGF-β signaling in PT mitochondrial homeostasis and inflammation in CKD, suggesting potential therapeutic targets that might be used to mitigate CKD progression.

The Interplay between Maternal Nutrition and Oxidative Stress

This Special Issue of Nutrients, "The Interplay between Maternal Nutrition and Oxidative Stress", was designed to contribute to our understanding of "oxidative stress" in pregnancy [...].

MiR-24-3p regulates the differentiation of adipose-derived stem cells toward pericytes and promotes fat grafting vascularization

Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) enhance fat graft survival by promoting neovascularization. The mechanism that promotes ADSCs differentiation toward pericytes was not known. We treated ADSCs with conditional medium (CM) from endothelial cells (ECs) or human recombinant transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) to induce differentiation into pericytes. Pericytes markers, including platelet-derived growth factor receptor β (PDGFRβ), alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and desmin, were examined. Pericytes differentiation markers, migration, and their association with ECs were examined in ADSCs transfected with miR-24-3p mimics and inhibitors. Bioinformatics target prediction platforms and luciferase assays were used to investigate whether PDGFRβ was directly targeted by miR-24-3p. In vivo, fat mixed with ADSCs transfected with miR-24-3p mimics or inhibitors was implanted subcutaneously on the lower back region of nude mice. Fat grafts were harvested and analyzed at 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks. Results showed that endogenous TGF-β derived from CM from EC or human recombinant TGF-β promoted migration, association with ECs, and induced expression of pericyte markers (PDGFRβ, α-SMA, Desmin) in ADSCs. MiR-24-3p directly targeted PDGFRβ in ADSCs by lucifer reporter assays. Inhibition of miR-24-3p promoted pericytes differentiation, migration, and association with ECs in ADSCs. Inhibition of miR-24-3p in ADSCs promoted survival, integrity, adipocyte viability, vascularization, pericytes association with ECs, and reduced fibrosis, whereas overexpression of miR-24-3p in ADSCs yielded the opposite results. Collectively, TGF-β released by ECs induced ADSCs differentiation toward pericytes through miR-24-3p. Downregulation of miR-24-3p in ADSCs induced survival, integrity, adipocyte viability, vascularization, pericytes association with ECs, and reduced fibrosis after fat grafting.

The Role of Genetic Mutations in Mitochondrial-Driven Cancer Growth in Selected Tumors: Breast and Gynecological Malignancies

There is an increasing understanding of the molecular and cytogenetic background of various tumors that helps us better conceptualize the pathogenesis of specific diseases. Additionally, in many cases, these molecular and cytogenetic alterations have diagnostic, prognostic, and/or therapeutic applications that are heavily used in clinical practice. Given that there is always room for improvement in cancer treatments and in cancer patient management, it is important to discover new therapeutic targets for affected individuals. In this review, we discuss mitochondrial changes in breast and gynecological (endometrial and ovarian) cancers. In addition, we review how the frequently altered genes in these diseases (BRCA1/2, HER2, PTEN, PIK3CA, CTNNB1, RAS, CTNNB1, FGFR, TP53, ARID1A, and TERT) affect the mitochondria, highlighting the possible associated individual therapeutic targets. With this approach, drugs targeting mitochondrial glucose or fatty acid metabolism, reactive oxygen species production, mitochondrial biogenesis, mtDNA transcription, mitophagy, or cell death pathways could provide further tailored treatment.

Vitamin D and chronic kidney disease: Insights on lipid metabolism of tubular epithelial cell and macrophages in tubulointerstitial fibrosis

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has been recognized as a significant global health problem due to being an important contributor to morbidity and mortality. Inflammation is the critical event that leads to CKD development orchestrated by a complex interaction between renal parenchyma and immune cells. Particularly, the crosstalk between tubular epithelial cells (TECs) and macrophages is an example of the critical cell communication in the kidney that drives kidney fibrosis, a pathological feature in CKD. Metabolism dysregulation of TECs and macrophages can be a bridge that connects inflammation and fibrogenesis. Currently, some evidence has reported how cellular lipid disturbances can affect kidney disease and cause tubulointerstitial fibrosis highlighting the importance of investigating potential molecules that can restore metabolic parameters. Vitamin D (VitD) is a hormone naturally produced by mammalian cells in a coordinated manner by the skin, liver, and kidneys. VitD deficiency or insufficiency is prevalent in patients with CKD, and serum levels of VitD are inversely correlated with the degree of kidney inflammation and renal function. Proximal TECs and macrophages produce the active form of VitD, and both express the VitD receptor (VDR) that evidence the importance of this nutrient in regulating their functions. However, whether VitD signaling drives physiological and metabolism improvement of TECs and macrophages during kidney injury is an open issue to be debated. In this review, we brought to light VitD as an important metabolic modulator of lipid metabolism in TECs and macrophages. New scientific approaches targeting VitD e VDR signaling at the cellular metabolic level can provide a better comprehension of its role in renal physiology and CKD progression.

An Electrophysiological and Proteomic Analysis of the Effects of the Superoxide Dismutase Mimetic, MnTMPyP, on Synaptic Signalling Post-Ischemia in Isolated Rat Hippocampal Slices

Metabolic stress and the increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) are two main contributors to neuronal damage and synaptic plasticity in acute ischemic stroke. The superoxide scavenger MnTMPyP has been previously reported to have a neuroprotective effect in organotypic hippocampal slices and to modulate synaptic transmission after in vitro hypoxia and oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD). However, the mechanisms involved in the effect of this scavenger remain elusive. In this study, two concentrations of MnTMPyP were evaluated on synaptic transmission during ischemia and post-ischemic synaptic potentiation. The complex molecular changes supporting cellular adaptation to metabolic stress, and how these are modulated by MnTMPyP, were also investigated. Electrophysiological data showed that MnTMPyP causes a decrease in baseline synaptic transmission and impairment of synaptic potentiation. Proteomic analysis performed on MnTMPyP and hypoxia-treated tissue indicated an impairment in vesicular trafficking mechanisms, including reduced expression of Hsp90 and actin signalling. Alterations of vesicular trafficking may lead to reduced probability of neurotransmitter release and AMPA receptor activity, resulting in the observed modulatory effect of MnTMPyP. In OGD, protein enrichment analysis highlighted impairments in cell proliferation and differentiation, such as TGFβ1 and CDKN1B signalling, in addition to downregulation of mitochondrial dysfunction and an increased expression of CAMKII. Taken together, our results may indicate modulation of neuronal sensitivity to the ischemic insult, and a complex role for MnTMPyP in synaptic transmission and plasticity, potentially providing molecular insights into the mechanisms mediating the effects of MnTMPyP during ischemia.

Nutrigenomic regulation of sensory plasticity

Diet profoundly influences brain physiology, but how metabolic information is transmuted into neural activity and behavior changes remains elusive. Here, we show that the metabolic enzyme O-GlcNAc Transferase (OGT) moonlights on the chromatin of the D. melanogaster gustatory neurons to instruct changes in chromatin accessibility and transcription that underlie sensory adaptations to a high-sugar diet. OGT works synergistically with the Mitogen Activated Kinase/Extracellular signal Regulated Kinase (MAPK/ERK) rolled and its effector stripe (also known as EGR2 or Krox20) to integrate activity information. OGT also cooperates with the epigenetic silencer Polycomb Repressive Complex 2.1 (PRC2.1) to decrease chromatin accessibility and repress transcription in the high-sugar diet. This integration of nutritional and activity information changes the taste neurons' responses to sugar and the flies' ability to sense sweetness. Our findings reveal how nutrigenomic signaling generates neural activity and behavior in response to dietary changes in the sensory neurons.

Metformin and simvastatin exert additive antitumour effects in glioblastoma via senescence-state: clinical and translational evidence

BACKGROUND

Glioblastoma is one of the most devastating and incurable cancers due to its aggressive behaviour and lack of available therapies, being its overall-survival from diagnosis ∼14-months. Thus, identification of new therapeutic tools is urgently needed. Interestingly, metabolism-related drugs (e.g., metformin/statins) are emerging as efficient antitumour agents for several cancers. Herein, we evaluated the in vitro/in vivo effects of metformin and/or statins on key clinical/functional/molecular/signalling parameters in glioblastoma patients/cells.

METHODS

An exploratory-observational-randomized retrospective glioblastoma patient cohort (n = 85), human glioblastoma/non-tumour brain human cells (cell lines/patient-derived cell cultures), mouse astrocytes progenitor cell cultures, and a preclinical xenograft glioblastoma mouse model were used to measure key functional parameters, signalling-pathways and/or antitumour progression in response to metformin and/or simvastatin.

FINDINGS

Metformin and simvastatin exerted strong antitumour actions in glioblastoma cell cultures (i.e., proliferation/migration/tumoursphere/colony-formation/VEGF-secretion inhibition and apoptosis/senescence induction). Notably, their combination additively altered these functional parameters vs. individual treatments. These actions were mediated by the modulation of key oncogenic signalling-pathways (i.e., AKT/JAK-STAT/NF-κB/TGFβ-pathways). Interestingly, an enrichment analysis uncovered a TGFβ-pathway activation, together with AKT inactivation, in response to metformin + simvastatin combination, which might be linked to an induction of the senescence-state, the associated secretory-phenotype, and to the dysregulation of spliceosome components. Remarkably, the antitumour actions of metformin + simvastatin combination were also observed in vivo [i.e., association with longer overall-survival in human, and reduction in tumour-progression in a mouse model (reduced tumour-size/weight/mitosis-number, and increased apoptosis)].

INTERPRETATION

Altogether, metformin and simvastatin reduce aggressiveness features in glioblastomas, being this effect significantly more effective (in vitro/in vivo) when both drugs are combined, offering a clinically relevant opportunity that should be tested for their use in humans.

FUNDING

Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities; Junta de Andalucía; CIBERobn (CIBER is an initiative of Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Spanish Ministry of Health, Social Services and Equality).

Regulation of T Cell Activation and Metabolism by Transforming Growth Factor-Beta

Transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) receptor signalling regulates T cell development, differentiation and effector function. Expression of the immune-associated isoform of this cytokine, TGFβ1, is absolutely required for the maintenance of immunological tolerance in both mice and humans, whilst context-dependent TGFβ1 signalling regulates the differentiation of both anti- and pro-inflammatory T cell effector populations. Thus, distinct TGFβ-dependent T cell responses are implicated in the suppression or initiation of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. In cancer settings, TGFβ signals contribute to the blockade of anti-tumour immune responses and disease progression. Given the key functions of TGFβ in the regulation of immune responses and the potential for therapeutic targeting of TGFβ-dependent pathways, the mechanisms underpinning these pleiotropic effects have been the subject of much investigation. This review focuses on accumulating evidence suggesting that modulation of T cell metabolism represents a major mechanism by which TGFβ influences T cell immunity.

Calponin 2 harnesses metabolic reprogramming to determine kidney fibrosis

In the fibrotic kidneys, the extent of a formed deleterious microenvironment is determined by cellular mechanical forces. This process requires metabolism for energy; however, how cellular mechanics and metabolism are connected remains unclear. Our proteomics revealed that actin filament binding and cell metabolism are the two most dysregulated events in the fibrotic kidneys. As a prominent actin stabilizer, Calponin 2 (CNN2) is predominantly expressed in fibroblasts and pericytes. CNN2 knockdown preserves kidney function and alleviates fibrosis. Global proteomics profiled that CNN2 knockdown enhanced the activities of the key rate-limiting enzymes and regulators of fatty acid oxidation (FAO) in diseased kidneys. Inhibiting carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1α in the FAO pathway results in lipid accumulation and extracellular matrix deposition in the fibrotic kidneys, which were restored after CNN2 knockdown. In patients, increased serum CNN2 levels are correlated with lipid content. Bioinformatics and chromatin immunoprecipitation showed that CNN2 interactor, estrogen receptor 2 (ESR2) binds peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α (PPARα) to transcriptionally regulate FAO downstream target genes expression amid kidney fibrosis. In vitro , ESR2 knockdown repressed the mRNA levels of PPARα and the key genes in the FAO pathway. Conversely, activation of PPARα reduced CNN2-induced matrix inductions. Our results suggest that balancing cell mechanics and metabolism is crucial to develop therapeutic strategies to halt kidney fibrosis.

The transforming growth factor beta ligand TIG-2 modulates the function of neuromuscular junction and muscle energy metabolism in Caenorhabditis elegans

Deciphering the physiological function of TGF-β (the transforming growth factor beta) family ligands is import for understanding the role of TGF-β in animals' development and aging. Here, we investigate the function of TIG-2, one of the ligands in Caenorhabditis elegans TGF-β family, in animals' behavioral modulation. Our results show that a loss-of-function mutation in tig-2 gene result in slower locomotion speed in the early adulthood and an increased density of cholinergic synapses, but a decreased neurotransmitter release at neuromuscular junctions (NMJs). Further tissue-specific rescue results reveal that neuronal and intestinal TIG-2 are essential for the formation of cholinergic synapses at NMJs. Interestingly, tig-2(ok3416) mutant is characterized with reduced muscle mitochondria content and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, although the function of muscle acetylcholine receptors and the morphology muscle fibers in the mutant are comparable to that in wild-type animals. Our result suggests that TIG-2 from different neuron and intestine regulates worm locomotion by modulating synaptogenesis and neurotransmission at NMJs, as well as energy metabolism in postsynaptic muscle cells.

Single-cell sequencing of PBMC characterizes the altered transcriptomic landscape of classical monocytes in BNT162b2-induced myocarditis

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been the most dangerous threat to public health worldwide for the last few years, which led to the development of the novel mRNA vaccine (BNT162b2). However, BNT162b2 vaccination is known to be associated with myocarditis. Here, as an attempt to determine the pathogenesis of the disease and to develop biomarkers to determine whether subjects likely proceed to myocarditis after vaccination, we conducted a time series analysis of peripheral blood mononuclear cells of a patient with BNT162b2-induced myocarditis. Single-cell RNA sequence analysis identified monocytes as the cell clusters with the most dynamic changes. To identify distinct gene expression signatures, we compared monocytes of BNT162b2-induced myocarditis with monocytes under various conditions, including SARS-CoV-2 infection, BNT162b2 vaccination, and Kawasaki disease, a disease similar to myocarditis. Representative changes in the transcriptomic profile of classical monocytes include the upregulation of genes related to fatty acid metabolism and downregulation of transcription factor AP-1 activity. This study provides, for the first time, the importance of classical monocytes in the pathogenesis of myocarditis following BNT162b2 vaccination and presents the possibility that vaccination affects monocytes, further inducing their differentiation and infiltration into the heart.

Epigenetic Profiling in the Saliva of Obese Pregnant Women

Maternal obesity is associated with inflammation and oxidative stress, strongly impacting the intrauterine environment with detrimental consequences for both mother and offspring. The saliva is a non-invasive biofluid reflecting both local and systemic health status. This observational study aimed to profile the epigenetic signature in the saliva of Obese (OB) and Normal-Weight (NW) pregnant women. Sixteen NW and sixteen OB Caucasian women with singleton spontaneous pregnancies were enrolled. microRNAs were quantified by the OpenArray Platform. The promoter region methylation of Suppressor of Cytokine Signaling 3 (SOCS3) and Transforming Growth Factor Beta 1 (TGF-Beta1) was assessed by pyrosequencing. There were 754 microRNAs evaluated: 20 microRNAs resulted in being differentially expressed between OB and NW. microRNA pathway enrichment analysis showed a significant association with the TGF-Beta signaling pathway (miTALOS) and with fatty acids biosynthesis/metabolism, lysine degradation, and ECM–receptor interaction pathways (DIANA–miRPath). Both SOCS3 and TGF-Beta1 were significantly down-methylated in OB vs. NW. These results help to clarify impaired mechanisms involved in obesity and pave the way for the understanding of specific damaged pathways. The characterization of the epigenetic profile in saliva of pregnant women can represent a promising tool for the identification of obesity-related altered mechanisms and of possible biomarkers for early diagnosis and treatment of pregnancy-adverse conditions.