Epigenetic Regulation of Inflammatory Signaling and Inflammation-Induced Cancer

Regulation of histone H3K27 methylation in inflammation and cancer

Inflammation is a multifaceted defense mechanism of the immune system against infection. Chronic inflammation is intricately linked to all stages of tumorigenesis and is therefore associated with an elevated risk of developing serious cancers. Epigenetic mechanisms have the capacity to trigger inflammation as well as facilitate tumor development and transformation within an inflammatory context. They achieve this by dynamically modulating the expression of both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, which in turn sustains chronic inflammation. The aberrant epigenetic landscape reconfigures the transcriptional programs of inflammatory and oncogenic genes. This reconfiguration is pivotal in dictating the biological functions of both tumor cells and immune cells. Aberrant histone H3 lysine 27 site (H3K27) methylation has been shown to be involved in biological behaviors such as inflammation development, tumor progression, and immune response. The establishment and maintenance of this repressive epigenetic mark is dependent on the involvement of the responsible histone modifying enzymes enhancer of zeste homologue 2 (EZH2), jumonji domain containing 3 (JMJD3) and ubiquitously transcribed tetratricopeptide repeat gene X (UTX) as well as multiple cofactors. In addition, specific pharmacological agents have been shown to modulate H3K27 methylation levels, thereby modulating inflammation and carcinogenesis. This review comprehensively summarises the current characteristics and clinical significance of epigenetic regulation of H3K27 methylation in the context of inflammatory response and tumor progression.

Unveiling the link between chronic inflammation and cancer

The highly nuanced transition from an inflammatory process to tumorigenesis is of great scientific interest. While it is well known that environmental stimuli can cause inflammation, less is known about the oncogenic modifications that chronic inflammation in the tissue microenvironment can bring about, as well as how these modifications can set off pro-tumorigenic processes. It is clear that no matter where the environmental factors come from, maintaining an inflammatory microenvironment encourages carcinogenesis. In addition to encouraging angiogenesis and metastatic processes, sustaining the survival and proliferation of malignant transformed cells, and possibly altering the efficacy of therapeutic agents, inflammation can negatively regulate the antitumoral adaptive and innate immune responses. Because chronic inflammation has multiple pathways involved in tumorigenesis and metastasis, it has gained recognition as a marker of cancer and a desirable target for cancer therapy. Recent advances in our knowledge of the molecular mechanisms that drive cancer's progression demonstrate that inflammation promotes tumorigenesis and metastasis while suppressing anti-tumor immunity. In many solid tumor types, including breast, lung, and liver cancer, inflammation stimulates the activation of oncogenes and impairs the body's defenses against the tumor. Additionally, it alters the microenvironment of the tumor. As a tactical approach to cancer treatment, these findings have underscored the importance of targeting inflammatory pathways. This review highlights the role of inflammation in cancer development and metastasis, focusing on its impact on tumor progression, immune suppression, and therapy resistance. It examines current anti-inflammatory strategies, including NSAIDs, cytokine modulators, and STAT3 inhibitors, while addressing their potential and limitations. The review emphasizes the need for further research to unravel the complex mechanisms linking inflammation to cancer progression and identify molecular targets for specific cancer subtypes.

Epigenetic regulation of transcription factors involved in NLRP3 inflammasome and NF-kB signaling pathways

The NLRP3 inflammasome and NF-κB signaling pathways play crucial roles in orchestrating inflammation and immune defense.​ This review explores the intricate relationship between these pathways and epigenetic regulation, a field of growing importance in understanding immune responses. Epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), significantly influence the activity of genes involved in these pathways, thereby modulating inflammatory responses. The review provides a comprehensive overview of current research on how epigenetic mechanisms interact with and regulate the NLRP3 inflammasome and NF-κB signaling pathways. It delves into advanced epigenetic concepts such as RNA modifications and 3D genome organization, and their impact on immune regulation. Furthermore, the implications of these findings for developing novel therapeutic strategies targeting epigenetic regulators in inflammatory diseases are discussed. By synthesizing recent advancements in this rapidly evolving field, this review underscores the critical role of epigenetic regulation in immune signaling and highlights the potential for epigenetic-based therapies in treating a wide range of inflammatory conditions, including autoimmune disorders and cancer.

Phytochemical synergies in BK002: advanced molecular docking insights for targeted prostate cancer therapy

Achyranthes japonica (Miq.) Nakai (AJN) and Melandrium firmum (Siebold and Zucc.) Rohrb. (MFR) are medicinal plants recognized for their bioactive phytochemicals, including ecdysteroids, anthraquinones, and flavonoids. This study investigates the anticancer properties of key constituents of these plants, focusing on the BK002 formulation, a novel combination of AJN and MFR. Specifically, the research employs advanced molecular docking and in silico analyses to assess the interactions of bioactive compounds ecdysterone, inokosterone, and 20-hydroxyecdysone (20-HE) with key prostate cancer-related network proteins, including 5α-reductase, CYP17, DNMT1, Dicer, PD-1, and PD-L1. Molecular docking techniques were applied to evaluate the binding affinities contributions of the bioactive compounds in BK002 against prostate cancer-hub network targets. The primary focus was on enzymes like 5α-reductase and CYP17, which are central to androgen biosynthesis, as well as on cancer-related proteins such as DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1), Dicer, programmed death-1 (PD-1), and programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1). Based on data from prostate cancer patients, key target networks were identified, followed by in silico analysis of the primary bioactive components of BK002.In silico assessments were conducted to evaluate the safety profiles of these compounds, providing insights into their therapeutic potential. The docking studies revealed that ecdysterone, inokosterone, and 20-hydroxyecdysonec demonstrated strong binding affinities to the critical prostate cancer-related enzymes 5α-reductase and CYP17, contributing to a potential reduction in androgenic activity. These compounds also exhibited significant inhibitory interactions with DNMT1, Dicer, PD-1, and PD-L1, suggesting a capacity to interfere with key oncogenic and immune evasion pathways. Ecdysterone, inokosterone, and 20-hydroxyecdysone have demonstrated the ability to target key oncogenic pathways, and their favorable binding affinity profiles further underscore their potential as novel therapeutic agents for prostate cancer. These findings provide a strong rationale for further preclinical and clinical investigations, supporting the integration of BK002 into therapeutic regimens aimed at modulating tumor progression and immune responses.

Synthetic CB1 Cannabinoids Promote Tunneling Nanotube Communication, Cellular Migration, and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Pancreatic PANC-1 and Colorectal SW-620 Cancer Cell Lines

Metastasizing cancer cells surreptitiously can adapt to metabolic activity during their invasion. By initiating their communications for invasion, cancer cells can reprogram their cellular activities to initiate their proliferation and migration and uniquely counteract metabolic stress during their progression. During this reprogramming process, cancer cells' metabolism and other cellular activities are integrated and mutually regulated by tunneling nanotube communications to alter their specific metabolic functional drivers of tumor growth and progression. Here, we investigated the in vitro effects of the synthetic CB1 cannabinoids AM-404, arvanil, and olvanil on human pancreatic PANC-1 and colorectal SW-620 cancer cell lines to understand further cellular behaviors and the potential risks of their use in cancer therapy. For the first time, the synthetic CB1 cannabinoids AM-404, arvanil, and olvanil significantly altered cancer cells in forming missile-like shapes to induce tunneling nanotube (TNT) communications in PANC-1 cells. Oseltamivir phosphate (OP) significantly prevented TNT formation. To assess the key survival pathways critical for pancreatic cancer progression, we used the AlamarBlue assay to determine synthetic CB1 cannabinoids to induce the cell's metabolic viability drivers to stage migratory intercellular communication. The synthetic CB1 cannabinoids significantly increased cell viability compared to the untreated control for PANC-1 and SW-620 cells, and this response was significantly reduced with the NMBR inhibitor BIM-23127, neuraminidase-1 inhibitor OP, and MMP-9 inhibitor (MMP-9i). CB1 cannabinoids also significantly increased N-cadherin and decreased E-cadherin EMT markers compared to the untreated controls, inducing the process of metastatic phenotype for invasion. BIM-23127, MMP9i, and OP significantly inhibited CB1 agonist-induced NFκB-dependent secretory alkaline phosphatase (SEAP) activity. To confirm this concept, we investigated the migratory invasiveness of PANC-1 and SW-620 cancer cells treated with the synthetic CB1 cannabinoids AM-404, arvanil, and olvanil in a scratch wound assay. CB1 cannabinoids significantly induced the rate of migration and invasiveness of PANC-1 cancer cells, whereas they had minimal effect on the rate of migration of already metastatic SW-620 cancer cells. Interestingly, olvanil-treated SW-620 cells significantly enhanced the migration rate and invasiveness of these cells. The data support the cellular and molecular mechanisms of the synthetic CB1 cannabinoids, orchestrating intercellular conduits to enhance metabolic drivers to stage migratory intercellular communication in pancreatic cancer cells.

Pan-Immune-Inflammation Value as a Novel Prognostic Biomarker for Advanced Pancreatic Cancer

AIM

This study investigated the prognostic value of the pan-immune-inflammation value (PIV) in patients with advanced-stage pancreatic cancer (PC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The cohort comprised 71 patients, with a median age of 65 years (range: 37-83). The majority (69%) of patients received the FOLFIRINOX regimen as first-line therapy. Using ROC curve analysis, PIV demonstrated high diagnostic accuracy in predicting mortality, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.84 (95% CI: 0.72-0.97) and an optimal cut-off point of 276.5.

RESULTS

Elevated PIV was significantly associated with mortality (p = 0.014), and patients with high PIV exhibited significantly poorer overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) than those with low PIV (OS: 9.0 months vs. 26.0 months, p < 0.001; PFS: 7.0 months vs. 15.0 months, p < 0.001). Univariate and multivariate analyses identified PIV and the selected chemotherapy regimens as independent prognostic factors for OS and PFS.

CONCLUSION

High PIV values are associated with worse clinical outcomes, reinforcing its role as a reliable prognostic biomarker in advanced-stage PC. These findings underscore the importance of PIV in guiding therapeutic strategies and warrant further investigation in larger cohorts.

Cellular senescence in metastatic prostate cancer: A therapeutic opportunity or challenge (Review)

The treatment of patients with metastatic prostate cancer (PCa) is considered to be a long‑standing challenge. Conventional treatments for metastatic PCa, such as radical prostatectomy, radiotherapy and androgen receptor‑targeted therapy, induce senescence of PCa cells to a certain extent. While senescent cells can impede tumor growth through the restriction of cell proliferation and increasing immune clearance, the senescent microenvironment may concurrently stimulate the secretion of a senescence‑associated secretory phenotype and diminish immune cell function, which promotes PCa recurrence and metastasis. Resistance to established therapies is the primary obstacle in treating metastatic PCa as it can lead to progression towards an incurable state of disease. Therefore, understanding the molecular mechanisms that underly the progression of PCa is crucial for the development of novel therapeutic approaches. The present study reviews the phenomenon of treatment‑induced senescence in PCa, the dual role of senescence in PCa treatments and the mechanisms through which senescence promotes PCa metastasis. Furthermore, the present review discusses potential therapeutic strategies to target the aforementioned processes with the aim of providing insights into the evolving therapeutic landscape for the treatment of metastatic PCa.

From Crypts to Cancer: A Holistic Perspective on Colorectal Carcinogenesis and Therapeutic Strategies

Colorectal cancer (CRC) represents a significant global health burden, with high incidence and mortality rates worldwide. Recent progress in research highlights the distinct clinical and molecular characteristics of colon versus rectal cancers, underscoring tumor location's importance in treatment approaches. This article provides a comprehensive review of our current understanding of CRC epidemiology, risk factors, molecular pathogenesis, and management strategies. We also present the intricate cellular architecture of colonic crypts and their roles in intestinal homeostasis. Colorectal carcinogenesis multistep processes are also described, covering the conventional adenoma-carcinoma sequence, alternative serrated pathways, and the influential Vogelstein model, which proposes sequential APC, KRAS, and TP53 alterations as drivers. The consensus molecular CRC subtypes (CMS1-CMS4) are examined, shedding light on disease heterogeneity and personalized therapy implications.

Gut Microbiota-Derived Trimethylamine Promotes Inflammation with a Potential Impact on Epigenetic and Mitochondrial Homeostasis in Caco-2 Cells

Trimethylamine (TMA), a byproduct of gut microbiota metabolism from dietary precursors, is not only the precursor of trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) but may also affect gut health. An in vitro model of intestinal epithelium of Caco-2 cells was used to evaluate the impact of TMA on inflammation, paracellular permeability, epigenetics and mitochondrial functions. The expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-1β) increased significantly after 24 h exposure to TMA 1 mM. TMA exposure was associated with an upregulation of SIRT1 (TMA 1 mM, 400 μM, 10 μM) and DNMT1 (TMA 1 mM, 400 µM) genes, while DNMT3A expression decreased (TMA 1 mM). In a cell-free model, TMA (from 0.1 µM to 1 mM) induced a dose-dependent reduction in Sirtuin enzyme activity. In Caco-2 cells, TMA reduced total ATP levels and significantly downregulated ND6 expression (TMA 1 mM). TMA excess (1 mM) reduced intracellular mitochondrial DNA copy numbers and increased the methylation of the light-strand promoter in the D-loop area of mtDNA. Also, TMA (1 mM, 400 µM, 10 µM) increased the permeability of Caco-2 epithelium, as evidenced by the reduced transepithelial electrical resistance values. Based on our preliminary results, TMA excess might promote inflammation in intestinal cells and disturb epigenetic and mitochondrial homeostasis.

The pharmacoepigenetic paradigm in cancer treatment

Epigenetic modifications, characterized by changes in gene expression without altering the DNA sequence, play a crucial role in the development and progression of cancer by significantly influencing gene activity and cellular function. This insight has led to the development of a novel class of therapeutic agents, known as epigenetic drugs. These drugs, including histone deacetylase inhibitors, histone acetyltransferase inhibitors, histone methyltransferase inhibitors, and DNA methyltransferase inhibitors, aim to modulate gene expression to curb cancer growth by uniquely altering the epigenetic landscape of cancer cells. Ongoing research and clinical trials are rigorously evaluating the efficacy of these drugs, particularly their ability to improve therapeutic outcomes when used in combination with other treatments. Such combination therapies may more effectively target cancer and potentially overcome the challenge of drug resistance, a significant hurdle in cancer therapy. Additionally, the importance of nutrition, inflammation control, and circadian rhythm regulation in modulating drug responses has been increasingly recognized, highlighting their role as critical modifiers of the epigenetic landscape and thereby influencing the effectiveness of pharmacological interventions and patient outcomes. Epigenetic drugs represent a paradigm shift in cancer treatment, offering targeted therapies that promise a more precise approach to treating a wide spectrum of tumors, potentially with fewer side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy. This progress marks a step towards more personalized and precise interventions, leveraging the unique epigenetic profiles of individual tumors to optimize treatment strategies.

Restoration of epigenetic impairment in the skeletal muscle and chronic inflammation resolution as a therapeutic approach in sarcopenia

Sarcopenia is an age-associated loss of skeletal muscle mass, strength, and function, accompanied by severe adverse health outcomes, such as falls and fractures, functional decline, high health costs, and mortality. Hence, its prevention and treatment have become increasingly urgent. However, despite the wide prevalence and extensive research on sarcopenia, no FDA-approved disease-modifying drugs exist. This is probably due to a poor understanding of the mechanisms underlying its pathophysiology. Recent evidence demonstrate that sarcopenia development is characterized by two key elements: (i) epigenetic dysregulation of multiple molecular pathways associated with sarcopenia pathogenesis, such as protein remodeling, insulin resistance, mitochondria impairments, and (ii) the creation of a systemic, chronic, low-grade inflammation (SCLGI). In this review, we focus on the epigenetic regulators that have been implicated in skeletal muscle deterioration, their individual roles, and possible crosstalk. We also discuss epidrugs, which are the pharmaceuticals with the potential to restore the epigenetic mechanisms deregulated in sarcopenia. In addition, we discuss the mechanisms underlying failed SCLGI resolution in sarcopenia and the potential application of pro-resolving molecules, comprising specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) and their stable mimetics and receptor agonists. These compounds, as well as epidrugs, reveal beneficial effects in preclinical studies related to sarcopenia. Based on these encouraging observations, we propose the combination of epidrugs with SCLI-resolving agents as a new therapeutic approach for sarcopenia that can effectively attenuate of its manifestations.

Epigenetic dynamics of aging and cancer development: current concepts from studies mapping aging and cancer epigenomes

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review emphasizes the role of epigenetic processes as incidental changes occurring during aging, which, in turn, promote the development of cancer.

RECENT FINDINGS

Aging is a complex biological process associated with the progressive deterioration of normal physiological functions, making age a significant risk factor for various disorders, including cancer. The increasing longevity of the population has made cancer a global burden, as the risk of developing most cancers increases with age due to the cumulative effect of exposure to environmental carcinogens and DNA replication errors. The classical 'somatic mutation theory' of cancer cause is being challenged by the observation that multiple normal cells harbor cancer driver mutations without resulting in cancer. In this review, we discuss the role of age-associated epigenetic alterations, including DNA methylation, which occur across all cell types and tissues with advancing age. There is an increasing body of evidence linking these changes with cancer risk and prognosis.

SUMMARY

A better understanding about the epigenetic changes acquired during aging is critical for comprehending the mechanisms leading to the age-associated increase in cancer and for developing novel therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment and prevention.

Low back pain patients with Modic type 1 changes exhibit distinct bacterial and non-bacterial subtypes

Objectives

Modic type 1 changes (MC1) are vertebral endplate bone marrow (BM) lesions observed on magnetic resonance images in sub-populations of chronic low back pain (CLBP) patients. The etiopathogenesis remains unknown and treatments that modify the underlying pathomechanisms do not exist. We hypothesized that two biological MC1 subtypes exist: a bacterial and a non-bacterial. This would have important implications for developing treatments targeting the underlying pathomechanisms.

Methods

Intervertebral disc (IVD) samples adjacent to MC1 (n ​= ​34) and control (n ​= ​11) vertebrae were collected from patients undergoing spinal fusion. Cutibacterium acnes (C.acnes) genome copy numbers (GCNs) were quantified in IVD tissues with 16S qPCR, transcriptomic signatures and cytokine profiles were determined in MC1 and control BM by RNA sequencing and immunoassay. Finally, we assessed if C.acnes GCNs are associated with blood plasma cytokines.

Results

IVD tissues from control levels had <870 ​C.acnes GCNs/gram IVD. MC1-adjacent IVDs had either "low" (<870) or "high" (>870) C.acnes GCNs. MC1 patients with "high" C.acnes GCNs had upregulated innate immune cell signatures (neutrophil, macrophage/monocyte) and pro-inflammatory cytokines related to neutrophil and macrophage/monocyte function in the BM, consistent with a host defense against bacterium. MC1 patients with "low" C.acnes GCNs had increased adaptive immune cell signatures (T-and B-cell) in the BM and elevated IL-13 blood plasma levels.

Conclusion

Our study provides the first evidence for the existence of bacterial (C.acnes "high") and non-bacterial (C.acnes "low") subtypes in MC1 patients with CLBP. This supports the need for different treatment strategies.

Epigenetic alterations fuel brain metastasis via regulating inflammatory cascade

Brain metastasis (BrM) is a major threat to the survival of melanoma, breast, and lung cancer patients. Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and sustain in the brain microenvironment. Genetic mutations and epigenetic modifications have been found to be critical in controlling key aspects of cancer metastasis. Metastasizing cells confront inflammation and gradually adapt in the unique brain microenvironment. Currently, it is one of the major areas that has gained momentum. Researchers are interested in the factors that modulate neuroinflammation during BrM. We review here various epigenetic factors and mechanisms modulating neuroinflammation and how this helps CTCs to adapt and survive in the brain microenvironment. Since epigenetic changes could be modulated by targeting enzymes such as histone/DNA methyltransferase, deacetylases, acetyltransferases, and demethylases, we also summarize our current understanding of potential drugs targeting various aspects of epigenetic regulation in BrM.

Purple Sweet Potato Polysaccharide Exerting an Anti-inflammatory Effect via a TLR-Mediated Pathway by Regulating Polarization and Inhibiting the Inflammasome Activation

Purple sweet potato polysaccharide (PSPP-1) is a novel glucan; this study aimed to examine the anti-inflammatory effect of PSPP-1 and elucidate its potential mechanisms. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW264.7 was used as the model of inflammation, cell viability, and levels of nitric oxide (NO), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and calcium ion (Ca2+) were analyzed. ELISA and qPCR were used to assess the productions and mRNA expression of cytokines, and Western blotting was used to assess protein expressions in the TLR-mediated pathway, macrophage polarization, and inflammasome activation. The results demonstrated PSPP-1 inhibited cell proliferation and markedly decreased NO, ROS, and Ca2+ levels. Moreover, PSPP-1 suppressed the secretions and mRNA expressions of pro-inflammatory cytokines and increased those of anti-inflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, PSPP-1 could exert anti-inflammatory effects through different pathways mediated by both TLR2 and TLR4, which modulated the expressions of essential proteins in the myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88)-dependent and toll/IL-1 receptor domain-containing adaptor-inducing interferon-β (TRIF)-dependent signaling pathways. PSPP-1 even regulated the polarization of M1/M2 macrophages and inhibited the nucleotide oligomerization domain-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation. These findings indicate that PSPP-1 can suppress LPS-induced inflammation via multiple pathways and may be a potential agent for therapeutic inflammation-related pathophysiological processes and disorders.

Epigenetic Network in Immunometabolic Disease

Although a large amount of data consistently shows that genes affect immunometabolic characteristics and outcomes, epigenetic mechanisms are also heavily implicated. Epigenetic changes, including DNA methylation, histone modification, and noncoding RNA, determine gene activity by altering the accessibility of chromatin to transcription factors. Various factors influence these alterations, including genetics, lifestyle, and environmental cues. Moreover, acquired epigenetic signals can be transmitted across generations, thus contributing to early disease traits in the offspring. A closer investigation is critical in this aspect as it can help to understand the underlying molecular mechanisms further and gain insights into potential therapeutic targets for preventing and treating diseases arising from immuno-metabolic dysregulation. In this review, the role of chromatin alterations in the transcriptional modulation of genes involved in insulin resistance, systemic inflammation, macrophage polarization, endothelial dysfunction, metabolic cardiomyopathy, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is discussed. An overview of emerging chromatin-modifying drugs and the importance of the individual epigenetic profile for personalized therapeutic approaches in patients with immuno-metabolic disorders is also presented.

Gossypol improves myocardial dysfunction caused by sepsis by regulating histone acetylation

Gossypol is a polyphenol from the cotton plant with anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidation activities and can also function as a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor. Sepsis is an inflammatory disease with high mortality. Inflammation, oxidative stress, and epigenetic factors are involved in sepsis and its complications. The biological activities of gossypol strongly suggest the potential effects of gossypol on sepsis. In the present study, the beneficial effects of gossypol on sepsis were evaluated. We established a cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) mouse model of sepsis and treated CLP mice with gossypol. The survival rate, serum level of myocardial injury markers, and myocardial level of oxidation markers were measured. We also administered gossypol to lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated primary cardiomyocytes. The production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, activation of protein kinase B (AKT) and IκB kinase (IKK), acetylation of histone, and expression of HDACs were measured. Gossypol prevented the death of CLP mice and ameliorated myocardial damage in CLP mice. Moreover, gossypol decreased oxidative factors, while promoting antioxidant production in CLP mice. Gossypol prevented LPS and cytosine-phosphate-guanosine-induced expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, suppressed LPS-induced activation of AKT and IKK, inhibited histone acetylation, and decreased the expression of HDACs. In conclusion, gossypol ameliorates myocardial dysfunction in mice with sepsis.

The Role of Selected Epigenetic Pathways in Cardiovascular Diseases as a Potential Therapeutic Target

Epigenetics is a rapidly developing science that has gained a lot of interest in recent years due to the correlation between characteristic epigenetic marks and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Epigenetic modifications contribute to a change in gene expression while maintaining the DNA sequence. The analysis of these modifications provides a thorough insight into the cardiovascular system from its development to its further functioning. Epigenetics is strongly influenced by environmental factors, including known cardiovascular risk factors such as smoking, obesity, and low physical activity. Similarly, conditions affecting the local microenvironment of cells, such as chronic inflammation, worsen the prognosis in cardiovascular diseases and additionally induce further epigenetic modifications leading to the consolidation of unfavorable cardiovascular changes. A deeper understanding of epigenetics may provide an answer to the continuing strong clinical impact of cardiovascular diseases by improving diagnostic capabilities, personalized medical approaches and the development of targeted therapeutic interventions. The aim of the study was to present selected epigenetic pathways, their significance in cardiovascular diseases, and their potential as a therapeutic target in specific medical conditions.

S1P Lyase Deficiency in the Brain Promotes Astrogliosis and NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation via Purinergic Signaling

Astrocytes are critical players in brain health and disease. Brain pathologies and lesions are usually accompanied by astroglial alterations known as reactive astrogliosis. Sphingosine 1-phosphate lyase (SGPL1) catalysis, the final step in sphingolipid catabolism, irreversibly cleaves its substrate sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P). We have shown that neural ablation of SGPL1 causes accumulation of S1P and hence neuronal damage, cognitive deficits, as well as microglial activation. Moreover, the S1P/S1P-receptor signaling axis enhances ATP production in SGPL1-deficient astrocytes. Using immunohistochemical methods as well as RNA Seq and CUT&Tag we show how S1P signaling causes activation of the astrocytic purinoreceptor P2Y1 (P2Y1R). With specific pharmacological agonists and antagonists, we uncover the P2Y1R as the key player in S1P-induced astrogliosis, and DDX3X mediated the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome, including caspase-1 and henceforward generation of interleukin-1ß (IL-1ß) and of other proinflammatory cytokines. Our results provide a novel route connecting S1P metabolism and signaling with astrogliosis and the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome, a central player in neuroinflammation, known to be crucial for the pathogenesis of numerous brain illnesses. Thus, our study opens the door for new therapeutic strategies surrounding S1P metabolism and signaling in the brain.

Epigenetic modifications of inflammation in intervertebral disc degeneration

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is a common cause of joint-related chronic disability in elderly individuals worldwide. It seriously impacts the quality of life and inflicts a substantial social and economic burden. The pathological mechanisms underlying IDD have not been fully revealed, leading to less satisfactory clinical treatment outcomes. More studies are urgently needed to reveal its precise pathological mechanisms. Numerous studies have revealed that inflammation is closely related to various pathological processes of IDD, including the continuous loss of extracellular matrix, cell apoptosis, and senescence, indicating the important role of inflammation in the pathological mechanism of IDD. Epigenetic modifications affect the functions and characteristics of genes mainly through DNA methylation, histone modification, non-coding RNA regulation, and other mechanisms, thus having a major effect on the survival state of the body. Recently, the role of epigenetic modifications in inflammation during IDD has been attracting research interest. In this review, we summarize the roles of different types of epigenetic modifications in inflammation during IDD in recent years, to improve our understanding of the etiology of IDD and to transform basic research strategy into a clinically effective treatment for joint-related chronic disability in elderly individuals.

Genetic and Epigenetic Regulation of MEFV Gene and Their Impact on Clinical Outcome in Auto-Inflammatory Familial Mediterranean Fever Patients

Epigenetic modifications play a pivotal role in autoimmune/inflammatory disorders and could establish a bridge between personalized medicine and disease epidemiological contexts. We sought to investigate the role of epigenetic modifications beside genetic alterations in the MEFV gene in familial Mediterranean fever (FMF). The study comprised 63 FMF patients diagnosed according to the Tel Hashomer criteria: 37 (58.7%) colchicine-responders, 26 (41.3%) non-responders, and 19 matched healthy controls. MEFV mutations were detected using a CE/IVD-labeled 4-230 FMF strip assay. DNA methylation of MEFV gene exon 2 was measured using bisulfite modification and related to pyrin level, phenotypic picture, MEFV mutations, disease severity, serum amyloid A (SAA), CRP, ESR, disease severity, and colchicine response. Our results showed that FMF patients exhibited significantly higher methylation percentage (p < 0.001) and lower pyrin levels (p < 0.001) compared to the control. The MEFV gene M694I mutation was the most commonly reported mutation (p < 0.004). High methylation percentage of the MEFV exon 2 and low pyrin concentration were correlated with disease severity, high SAA, ESR levels, H-pylori, and renal calculi. In conclusion, this study highlights the relation between high methylation percentage, reduced pyrin level, and different biomarkers in FMF, which underscores their role in the pathogenesis of FMF and could be considered as potential therapeutic targets.

Causal associations between gastroesophageal reflux disease and lung cancer risk: A Mendelian randomization study

BACKGROUND

Observational epidemiological studies suggest that lung cancer risk may be raised by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD); however, the causal relationship between them remains unknown. Our study performed the two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) approach to examine the causal relationship between GERD and lung cancer.

METHODS

Instrument variables were found to be independent single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that were highly linked with GERD (n = 129,080). Summary data from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) data were used to determine outcomes for lung cancer (n = 11,348), squamous cell lung cancer (LUSC), and lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). In this study, three MR statistical techniques (inverse variance weighted (IVW), MR-Egger, and weighted median) were used to examine the potential causative relationship between GERD and the risk of lung cancer. Cochran's Q test, MR-Egger intercept test, leave-one-out analysis, and the funnel plot were all used in sensitivity analyses.

RESULTS

The main IVW method revealed that GERD substantially increased the risk of lung cancer [odds ratio (OR) = 1.37; 95% CI 1.16-1.63, p = 0. 0003], which was also supported by weighted median and MR-Egger analyses. Using IVW estimate, similar causal relationships were also observed between GERD and LUSC (OR = 1.56; 95% CI 1.26-1.93, p = 5.35 × 10^-5 ) and LUAD (OR = 1.45; 95% CI 1.09-1.93, p = 0.01). Although potential heterogeneity was observed in some studies, random effect IVW was not violated by the heterogeneity, indicating that the causal effect was robust.

CONCLUSION

GERD was positively associated with the risk of lung cancer, for LUSC and LUAD. This study shed light on a new direction for prevent strategy of lung cancer and therapeutic perspectives in patients with GERD.

The emerging double-edged sword role of Sirtuins in the gastric inflammation-carcinoma sequence revealed by bulk and single-cell transcriptomes

Histone modification and the inflammation-carcinoma sequence (ICS) have been acknowledgedly implicated in gastric carcinogenesis. However, the extremum expression of some histone modification genes (HMGs) in intestinal metaplasia (IM) rather than GC obscures the roles of HMGs in ICS. In this study, we assumed an explanation that the roles of HMGs in ICS were stage specific. Bulk RNA-seq on endoscopy biopsy samples from a total of 50 patients was accompanied by reanalysis of a set of published single-cell transcriptomes, which cross-sectionally profiled the transcriptomic features of chronic superficial gastritis (SG), atrophy gastritis (AG), IM, and early gastric cancer (GC). Differential analysis observed significantly peaked expression of SIRT6 and SIRT7 at IM. Weighted correlation network analysis on bulk transcriptome recognized significant correlations between SIRT1/6 and IM. The single-cell atlas identified one subgroup of B cells expressing high level of TFF1 (TFF1^hi naive B cell) that theoretically played important roles in defending microbial infection, while SIRT6 displayed a positive correlation with TFF1^low naive B cells. Moreover, gene set enrichment analysis at different lesions (SG-AG, AG-IM, and IM-GC) highlighted that gene sets contributing to IM, e.g., Brush Border, were largely enriched from co-expressing genes of Sirtuins (SIRTs) in AG-IM. Surveys of the genes negatively correlated with SIRT6 in public databases considered SIRT6 as tumor suppressors, which was confirmed by the cell proliferation and migration assays after transient transfection of SIRT6 overexpression vector into AGS cells. All the above observations were then confirmed by serial section-based immunohistochemistry against Ki-67, MUC2, MUC5AC, p53, and SIRT6 on the endoscopic submucosal dissection tissue. By contrast, the expression of the other HMGs varied even opposite within same family. Taken together, this study preliminarily demonstrated the two-edged sword role of SIRTs in ICS and, by extension, showed that the roles of HMGs in ICS were probably stage specific. Our study may provide new insights into and attract attention on gastric prevention and therapy targeting HMGs.

Advances in the therapeutic application and pharmacological properties of kinsenoside against inflammation and oxidative stress-induced disorders

Extensive research has implicated inflammation and oxidative stress in the development of multiple diseases, such as diabetes, hepatitis, and arthritis. Kinsenoside (KD), a bioactive glycoside component extracted from the medicinal plant Anoectochilus roxburghii, has been shown to exhibit potent anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative abilities. In this review, we summarize multiple effects of KD, including hepatoprotection, pro-osteogenesis, anti-hyperglycemia, vascular protection, immune regulation, vision protection, and infection inhibition, which are partly responsible for suppressing inflammation signaling and oxidative stress. The protective action of KD against dysfunctional lipid metabolism is also associated with limiting inflammatory signals, due to the crosstalk between inflammation and lipid metabolism. Ferroptosis, a process involved in both inflammation and oxidative damage, is potentially regulated by KD. In addition, we discuss the physicochemical properties and pharmacokinetic profiles of KD. Advances in cultivation and artificial synthesis techniques are promising evidence that the shortage in raw materials required for KD production can be overcome. In addition, novel drug delivery systems can improve the in vivo rapid clearance and poor bioavailability of KD. In this integrated review, we aim to offer novel insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the therapeutic role of KD and lay solid foundations for the utilization of KD in clinical practice.