Discovery of GLO1 New Related Genes and Pathways by RNA-Seq on A2E-Stressed Retinal Epithelial Cells Could Improve Knowledge on Retinitis Pigmentosa

β-Klotho inhibits CSF-1 secretion and delays the development of endometrial cancer

Senescent cells can drive tumors development by promoting chronic inflammation. There is a significant correlation between β-Klotho expression profiles and endometrial cancer (EC). However, how β-Klotho regulates the occurrence and development of uterine EC remains to be further studied. Our research found that compared with normal endometrial tissues, β-Klotho expression levels in EC tissues were significantly reduced; overexpression of β-Klotho significantly inhibited aging, proliferation and migration but promoted apoptosis of EC cells cultured in vitro. In normal endometrial cells, results confirmed that reduced levels of β-Klotho promoted CSF-1 secretion, and the migration ability of macrophages was significantly enhanced when co-cultured with normal endometrial cells. In contrast, the expression of CSF-1 was significantly reduced after overexpression of β-Klotho in EC cells, and the macrophage migration ability is significantly weakened when co-cultured with EC cells. Therefore, we believe that β-Klotho influences macrophage migration by regulating the expression of CSF-1, thereby interfering with the progression of EC. We investigated in depth the mechanism of β-Klotho regulating CSF-1 secretion and found that β-Klotho inhibits the phosphorylation of p65, which blocked the nuclear translocation of p65, thereby inhibiting the secretion of CSF-1 by EC cells. The above results indicate that β-Klotho-mediated inhibition of CSF-1 secretion reduces the migration of macrophages to tumor tissue and delays the progression of EC.

Effect and mechanism of BDNF/TrkB signaling on vestibular compensation

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) regulates neuronal plasticity by targeting the tyrosine kinase B receptor (TrkB) receptor, but limited researches concentrate on the role of BDNF/TrkB signaling in vestibular compensation. In this study, rats with unilateral vestibular dysfunction were established by unilateral labyrinthectomy (UL) and infusion with siBDNF or 7, 8-Dihydroxyflavone (7,8-DHF, a TrkB receptor agonist). The behavioral scores of rats with vestibular deficits were determined and the rotarod test was performed after UL. BDNF and TrkB levels after UL were determined by western blot and quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR). 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU)-positive cells (newly generated cells) and GAD67-positive cells (GABAergic neurons) were identified by immunohistochemistry. Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) (astrocyte marker)-positive cells were identified and GABA type A receptor (GABAAR) expression was detected by immunofluorescence. We found that after UL, BDNF and TrkB levels were up-regulated with a maximum value at 4 h, and then progressively down-regulated during 4 h ~ 7 d. Blocking BDNF/TrkB signaling inhibited the recovery from vestibular deficits, decreased the numbers of newly generated cells and astrocytes in medial vestibular nucleus (MVN), inferior vestibular nerve (IVN), superior vestibular nerve (SVN) and lateral vestibular nucleus (LVN), and disrupted the balances of GABAergic neurons and GABAAR expressions in the left (lesioned) side and right (intact) side of MVN, whereas activation of BDNF/TrkB signaling caused opposite results. The current study indicated that BDNF/TrkB signaling avails vestibular compensation, depending on the number of newly generated cells and astrocytes, the rebalance of GABAergic neurons, and GABAAR expression in bilateral MVN.

New evaluation methods of read mapping by 17 aligners on simulated and empirical NGS data: an updated comparison of DNA- and RNA-Seq data from Illumina and Ion Torrent technologies

During the last (15) years, improved omics sequencing technologies have expanded the scale and resolution of various biological applications, generating high-throughput datasets that require carefully chosen software tools to be processed. Therefore, following the sequencing development, bioinformatics researchers have been challenged to implement alignment algorithms for next-generation sequencing reads. However, nowadays selection of aligners based on genome characteristics is poorly studied, so our benchmarking study extended the “state of art” comparing 17 different aligners. The chosen tools were assessed on empirical human DNA- and RNA-Seq data, as well as on simulated datasets in human and mouse, evaluating a set of parameters previously not considered in such kind of benchmarks. As expected, we found that each tool was the best in specific conditions. For Ion Torrent single-end RNA-Seq samples, the most suitable aligners were CLC and BWA-MEM, which reached the best results in terms of efficiency, accuracy, duplication rate, saturation profile and running time. About Illumina paired-end osteomyelitis transcriptomics data, instead, the best performer algorithm, together with the already cited CLC, resulted Novoalign, which excelled in accuracy and saturation analyses. Segemehl and DNASTAR performed the best on both DNA-Seq data, with Segemehl particularly suitable for exome data. In conclusion, our study could guide users in the selection of a suitable aligner based on genome and transcriptome characteristics. However, several other aspects, emerged from our work, should be considered in the evolution of alignment research area, such as the involvement of artificial intelligence to support cloud computing and mapping to multiple genomes.

Hyperthermia generated by magnetic nanoparticles for effective treatment of disseminated peritoneal cancer in an orthotopic nude-mouse model

Magnetic hyperthermia (MHT), which combines magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) with an alternating magnetic field (AMF), holds promise as a cancer therapy. There have been many studies about hyperthermia, most of which have been performed by direct injection of MNPs into tumor tissues. However, there have been no reports of treating peritoneal disseminated disease with MHT to date. In the present study, we treated peritoneal metastasis of gastric cancer with MHT using superparamagnetic iron oxide (Fe3O4) nanoparticle (SPION) coated with carboxydextran as an MNP, in an orthotopic mouse model mimicking early peritoneal disseminated disease of gastric cancer. SPIONs of an optimal size were intraperitoneally administered, and an AMF (390 kHz, 28 kAm-1) was applied for 10 minutes, four times every three days. Three weeks after the first MHT treatment, the peritoneal metastases were significantly inhibited compared with the AMF-alone group or the untreated-control group. The results of the present study show that MHT can be applied as a new treatment option for disseminated peritoneal gastric cancer.Abbreviations: AMF: alternating magnetic field; Cy1: cytology-positive; DMEM: Dulbecco's Modified Eagle's Medium; FBS: fetal bovine serum; H&E: hematoxylin and eosin; HIPEC: hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy; MEM: Minimum Essential Medium; MHT: magnetic hyperthermia; MNPs: magnetic nanoparticles; P0: macroscopic peritoneal dissemination; RFP: red fluorescent protein; SPION: superparamagnetic iron oxide (Fe3O4) nanoparticle.

N-retinylidene-N-retinylethanolamine adduct induces expression of chronic inflammation cytokines in retinal pigment epithelium cells

Blindness due to photoreceptor degeneration is observed in both genetic and acquired eye disorders. Long blue light exposure can contribute to increase levels of oxidative compounds within the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), enhancing risk of retinal damage. In retina, reactive oxygen species contribute to the activation of inflammatory cascade. If chronic, this inflammatory response can result in photoreceptor death. Therefore, we investigated the effects of the endogenous adduct N-retinylidene-N-retinylethanolamine (A2E) on RPE cells, in order to identify the most dysregulated cytokines and their related inflammatory pathways. RPE cells were exposed to A2E and blue light for 3h and 6h. By transcriptome analysis, we identified differentially expressed genes in A2E-treated cells, when compared to untreated ones. Expression values were quantified by the Limma R package. Enrichment analysis was performed according to the "Reactome" and the Gene Ontology databases. Expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines increased after 3h of A2E treatment and pathways related to IL-6 and IL-1 signaling resulted enriched. Also the up-regulation of genes having a protective role against inflammation was observed. Moreover, our results show that ferroptosis could contribute to RPE degeneration induced by A2E and blue light. Dysregulated genes related to retinal degeneration triggered by oxidative damage and inflammatory response activation identified in this study can be considered as potential biomarkers for targeted therapies.

Molecular Mechanisms Related to Oxidative Stress in Retinitis Pigmentosa

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is an inherited retinopathy. Nevertheless, non-genetic biological factors play a central role in its pathogenesis and progression, including inflammation, autophagy and oxidative stress. The retina is particularly affected by oxidative stress due to its high metabolic rate and oxygen consumption as well as photosensitizer molecules inside the photoreceptors being constantly subjected to light/oxidative stress, which induces accumulation of ROS in RPE, caused by damaged photoreceptor’s daily recycling. Oxidative DNA damage is a key regulator of microglial activation and photoreceptor degeneration in RP, as well as mutations in endogenous antioxidant pathways involved in DNA repair, oxidative stress protection and activation of antioxidant enzymes (MUTYH, CERKL and GLO1 genes, respectively). Moreover, exposure to oxidative stress alters the expression of micro-RNA (miRNAs) and of long non-codingRNA (lncRNAs), which might be implicated in RP etiopathogenesis and progression, modifying gene expression and cellular response to oxidative stress. The upregulation of the P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) also seems to be involved, causing pro-inflammatory cytokines and ROS release by macrophages and microglia, contributing to neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative progression in RP. The multiple pathways analysed demonstrate that oxidative microglial activation may trigger the vicious cycle of non-resolved neuroinflammation and degeneration, suggesting that microglia may be a key therapy target of oxidative stress in RP.

Retinal Pigment Epithelium Remodeling in Mouse Models of Retinitis Pigmentosa

In retinitis pigmentosa (RP), one of many possible genetic mutations causes rod degeneration, followed by cone secondary death leading to blindness. Accumulating evidence indicates that rod death triggers multiple, non-cell-autonomous processes, which include oxidative stress and inflammation/immune responses, all contributing to cone demise. Inflammation relies on local microglia and recruitment of immune cells, reaching the retina through breakdowns of the inner blood retinal barrier (iBRB). Leakage in the inner retina vasculature suggests similarly altered outer BRB, formed by junctions between retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells, which are crucial for retinal homeostasis, immune response, and privilege. We investigated the RPE structural integrity in three models of RP (rd9, rd10, and Tvrm4 mice) by immunostaining for zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), an essential regulatory component of tight junctions. Quantitative image analysis demonstrated discontinuities in ZO-1 profiles in all mutants, despite different degrees of photoreceptor loss. ZO-1 interruption zones corresponded to leakage of in vivo administered, fluorescent dextran through the choroid-RPE interface, demonstrating barrier dysfunction. Dexamethasone, administered to rd10 mice for rescuing cones, also rescued RPE structure. Thus, previously undetected, stereotyped abnormalities occur in the RPE of RP mice; pharmacological targeting of inflammation supports a feedback loop leading to simultaneous protection of cones and the RPE.

Oxidative Stress and the Role of NADPH Oxidase in Glaucoma

Glaucoma is characterised by loss of retinal ganglion cells, and their axons and many pathophysiological processes are postulated to be involved. It is increasingly understood that not one pathway underlies glaucoma aetiology, but rather they occur as a continuum that ultimately results in the apoptosis of retinal ganglion cells. Oxidative stress is recognised as an important mechanism of cell death in many neurodegenerative diseases, including glaucoma. NADPH oxidase (NOX) are enzymes that are widely expressed in vascular and non-vascular cells, and they are unique in that they primarily produce reactive oxygen species (ROS). There is mounting evidence that NOX are an important source of ROS and oxidative stress in glaucoma and other retinal diseases. This review aims to provide a perspective on the complex role of oxidative stress in glaucoma, in particular how NOX expression may influence glaucoma pathogenesis as illustrated by different experimental models of glaucoma and highlights potential therapeutic targets that may offer a novel treatment option to glaucoma patients.

Inhibition of Dectin-1 Ameliorates Neuroinflammation by Regulating Microglia/Macrophage Phenotype After Intracerebral Hemorrhage in Mice

Polarization of microglia/macrophages toward the pro-inflammatory phenotype is an important contributor to neuroinflammation after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Dectin-1 is a pattern recognition receptor that has been reported to play a key role in regulating neuroinflammation in ischemic stroke and spinal cord injury. However, the role and mechanism of action of Dectin-1 after ICH remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the effect of Dectin-1 on modulating the microglia/macrophage phenotype and neuroinflammation and the possible underlying mechanism after ICH. We found that Dectin-1 expression increased after ICH, and was mainly localized in microglia/macrophages. Neutrophil infiltration and microglia/macrophage polarization toward the pro-inflammatory phenotype increased after ICH. However, treatment with a Dectin-1 inhibitor reversed these phenomena and induced a shift the anti-inflammatory phenotype in microglia/macrophages; this resulted in alleviation of neurological dysfunction and facilitated hematoma clearance after ICH. We also found that Dectin-1 crosstalks with the downstream pro-inflammatory pathway, Card9/NF-κB, by activating spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk) both in vivo and in vitro. In conclusion, our data suggest that Dectin-1 is involved in the microglia/macrophage polarization and functional recovery after ICH, and that this mechanism, at least in part, may contribute to the involvement of the Syk/Card9/NF-kB pathway.

Up-regulating microRNA-138-5p enhances the protective role of dexmedetomidine on myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury mice via down-regulating Ltb4r1

Both microRNAs (miRs) and dexmedetomidine (Dex) have been verified to exert functional roles in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MI/RI). Given that, we concretely aim to discuss the effects of Dex and miR-138-5p on ventricular remodeling in mice affected by MI/RI via mediating leukotriene B4 receptor 1 (Ltb4r1). MI/RI mouse model was established by ligating left anterior descending coronary artery. The cardiac function, inflammatory factors and collagen fiber contents were detected after Dex/miR-138-5p/Ltb4r1 treatment. MiR-138-5p and Ltb4r1 expression in myocardial tissues were tested by RT-qPCR and western blot assay. The target relationship between miR-138-5p and Ltb4r1 was verified by online software prediction and luciferase activity assay. MiR-138-5p was down-regulated while Ltb4r1 was up-regulated in myocardial tissues of MI/RI mice. Dex improved cardiac function, alleviated myocardial damage, reduced inflammatory factor contents, collagen fibers, and Ltb4r1 expression while increased miR-138-5p expression in myocardial tissues of mice with MI/RI. Restored miR-138-5p and depleted Ltb4r1 improved cardiac function, abated inflammatory factor contents, myocardial damage, and content of collagen fibers in MI/RI mice. MiR-138-5p directly targeted Ltb4r1. The work evidence that Dex could ameliorate ventricular remodeling of MI/RI mice by up-regulating miR-138-3p and down-regulating Ltb4r1. Thus, Dex and miR-138-3p/Ltb4r1 may serve as potential targets for the ventricular remodeling of MI/RI.

Antioxidant Defenses in the Human Eye: A Focus on Metallothioneins

The human eye, the highly specialized organ of vision, is greatly influenced by oxidants of endogenous and exogenous origin. Oxidative stress affects all structures of the human eye with special emphasis on the ocular surface, the lens, the retina and its retinal pigment epithelium, which are considered natural barriers of antioxidant protection, contributing to the onset and/or progression of eye diseases. These ocular structures contain a complex antioxidant defense system slightly different along the eye depending on cell tissue. In addition to widely studied enzymatic antioxidants, including superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase, peroxiredoxins and selenoproteins, inter alia, metallothioneins (MTs) are considered antioxidant proteins of growing interest with further cell-mediated functions. This family of cysteine rich and low molecular mass proteins captures and neutralizes free radicals in a redox-dependent mechanism involving zinc binding and release. The state of the art of MTs, including the isoforms classification, the main functions described to date, the Zn-MT redox cycle as antioxidant defense system, and the antioxidant activity of Zn-MTs in the ocular surface, lens, retina and its retinal pigment epithelium, dependent on the number of occupied zinc-binding sites, will be comprehensively reviewed.

HOXC-AS2 mediates the proliferation, apoptosis, and migration of non-small cell lung cancer by combining with HOXC13 gene

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the highest incidence and mortality of malignant tumors worldwide and has become a global public health problem. Long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) are expected to participate in the progression of NSCLC. This study aims to explore the effects and underlying mechanisms of LncRNA HOXC-AS2 on NSCLC cell proliferation, apoptosis, and migration. The Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and clone formation assay were used to measure the A549 and HCC827 cell proliferation. The cell apoptosis and migration was respectively analyzed by flow cytometry and transwell assay. RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) was used to detect the interaction between HOXC-AS2 and HOXC13. The expression of β-catenin, α-SMA, MMP-1, MMP-2 expression, E-cadherin, and Ki-67 expression were determined by Western blot or immunohistochemistry (IHC) assay. We found that HOXC-AS2 was significantly up-regulated in NSCLC tissues. Knockdown of HOXC-AS2 expression resulted in significant decreases in NSCLC cell proliferation, migration, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process marker proteins, simultaneously activated A549 and HCC827 cell apoptosis. RIP assay suggested that HOXC13 was a functional target for HOXC-AS2. And HOXC-AS2 and HOXC13 could positively regulate each other. Compared with the normal tissues, the mRNA level of HOXC13 was increased in NSCLC tissues. HOXC13 silencing counteracted increases of A549 and HCC827 cell proliferation and migration, as well as a decrease of cell apoptosis induced by HOXC-AS2 overexpression. Moreover, HOXC-AS2 silencing reduced tumor growth rate and Ki-67 expression in vivo. Taken together, HOXC-AS2 knockdown inhibited NSCLC cell proliferation and migration, as well as stimulated NSCLC cell apoptosis through regulation of HOXC13 expression.

RNAi-mediated knockdown of PFK1 decreases the invasive capability and metastasis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell line, CNE-2

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is the most prevailing malignancy of the head and neck with unique geographic distribution. Southern China has one of the highest incidence rates of NPC in the world. Although radiotherapy and chemotherapy are the most important treatment modalities for NPC, recurrence, and metastasis severely interfere with the survival quality of patients. It is much-needed to find an effective method of NPC treatment with a good prognosis such as gene therapy. PFK1, a key regulatory enzyme of glycolysis, is frequently shown to be amplified and overexpressed in a variety of human cancers. However, the function of PFK1 and molecular mechanism in NPC is elusive. Here, we knockdown PFK1 expression by utilizing DNA vector-based RNA Interference. Western blotting and real-time PCR show that the expression of PFK1 is efficiently down-regulated in both protein and mRNA levels by stable transfection with PFK1 siRNA expression vector. In addition, stable knockdown of PFK1 expression inhibits cell growth, induces apoptosis, decreases the invasive capability and metastasis in the CNE2 human NPC cell line. This present study finds the importance of PFK1 which can be worked as a novel target in NPC treatment and holds great potential to be extended to other malignant cancers.

Identification of potential oxidative stress biomarkers for spinal cord injury in erythrocytes using mass spectrometry

Oxidative stress is a hallmark of secondary injury associated with spinal cord injury. Identifying stable and specific oxidative biomarkers is of important significance for studying spinal cord injury-associated secondary injury. Mature erythrocytes do not contain nuclei and mitochondria and cannot be transcribed and translated. Therefore, mature erythrocytes are highly sensitive to oxidative stress and may become a valuable biomarker. In the present study, we revealed the proteome dynamics of protein expression in erythrocytes of beagle dogs in the acute and subacute phases of spinal cord injury using mass spectrometry-based approaches. We found 26 proteins that were differentially expressed in the acute (0-3 days) and subacute (7-21 days) phases of spinal cord injury. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that these differentially expressed proteins were involved in glutathione metabolism, lipid metabolism, and pentose phosphate and other oxidative stress pathways. Western blot assays validated the differential expression of glutathione synthetase, transaldolase, and myeloperoxidase. This result was consistent with mass spectrometry results, suggesting that erythrocytes can be used as a novel sample source of biological markers of oxidative stress in spinal cord injury. Glutathione synthetase, transaldolase, and myeloperoxidase sourced from erythrocytes are potential biomarkers of oxidative stress after spinal cord injury. This study was approved by the Experimental Animal Centre of Ningxia Medical University, China (approval No. 2017-073) on February 13, 2017.

Correlation between Visual Acuity and Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography Parameters in Unilateral Idiopathic Epiretinal Membrane

Background: The tangential traction by idiopathic epiretinal membrane (iERM) may alter the hemodynamics of the macula. We investigated the correlation between visual acuity and the optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) parameters in unilateral iERM. Methods: We included 61 eyes of 61 consecutive patients with unilateral iERM between January 2018 and December 2018. The flow area of the retinal superficial capillary plexus (SCP), deep capillary plexus (DCP), and choroidal capillary plexus (CCP) were measured using OCTA. The normal fellow eyes were used for comparison. The iERM patients were divided into those with a presence of foveal concavity and those with a loss of foveal concavity. Results: When compared with fellow eyes, the flow areas showed a statistically significant decrease in the SCP and CCP of those with iERM (p = 0.037 and p = 0.011, respectively). In the DCP, no significant reduction in flow area was found in iERM (p = 0.054). The flow area of the CCP was the only factor significantly associated with best vision (p = 0.012). No significant differences in the flow areas of the SCP, DCP, and CCP were found between the presence and loss of foveal concavity. Conclusions: The flow area of the CCP is an important determinant of vision, emphasizing the crucial role of choroidal circulation in iERM. Moreover, mechanical stretch by iERM is not the only mechanism affecting the flow area.

New Omics-Derived Perspectives on Retinal Dystrophies: Could Ion Channels-Encoding or Related Genes Act as Modifier of Pathological Phenotype?

Ion channels are membrane-spanning integral proteins expressed in multiple organs, including the eye. Here, ion channels play a role in several physiological processes, like signal transmission and visual processing. A wide range of mutations have been reported in the corresponding genes and their interacting subunit coding genes, which contribute significantly to a wide spectrum of ocular diseases collectively called channelopathies, a subgroup of inherited retinal dystrophies. Such mutations result in either a loss or gain-of channel functions affecting the structure, assembly, trafficking and localization of channel proteins. We investigated the probands of seven Italian and Egyptian families affected by not completely defined forms of inherited retinal dystrophies, by whole exome sequencing (WES) experiments, and found interesting variants in already known causative genes probably able to impair retinal functionalities. However, because such variants did not completely explain the phenotype manifested by each patient, we proceed to further investigate possible related genes carrying mutations that might complement previously found data, based on the common aspect linked to neurotransmission impairments. We found 10 mutated genes whose variants might alter important ligand binding sites differently distributed through all considered patients. Such genes encode for ion channels, or their regulatory proteins, and strictly interact with known causative genes, also sharing with them synaptic-related pathways. Taking into account several limitations that will be resolved by further experiments, we believe that our exploratory investigation will help scientists to provide a new promising paradigm for precise diagnosis of retinal dystrophies to facilitate the development of rational treatments.

RNA therapeutics for retinal diseases

INTRODUCTION

In the retina, noncoding RNA (ncRNA) plays an integral role in regulating apoptosis, inflammatory responses, visual perception, and photo-transduction, with altered levels reported in diseased states.

AREAS COVERED

MicroRNA (miRNA), a class of ncRNA, regulates post-transcription gene expression through the binding of complementary sites of target messenger RNA (mRNA) with resulting translational repression. Small-interfering RNA (siRNA) is a double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) that regulates gene expression, leading to selective silencing of genes through a process called RNA interference (RNAi). Another form of RNAi involves short hairpin RNA (shRNA). In age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy (DR), miRNA has been implicated in the regulation of angiogenesis, oxidative stress, immune response, and inflammation.

EXPERT OPINION

Many RNA-based therapies in development are conveniently administered intravitreally, with the potential for pan-retinal effect. The majority of these RNA therapeutics are synthetic ncRNA's and hold promise for the treatment of AMD, DR, and inherited retinal diseases (IRDs). These RNA-based therapies include siRNA therapy with its high specificity, shRNA to 'knock down' autosomal dominant toxic gain of function-mutated genes, antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), which can restore splicing defects, and translational read-through inducing drugs (TRIDs) to increase expression of full-length protein from genes with premature stop codons.

The circ_0004463/miR-380-3p/FOXO1 axis modulates mitochondrial respiration and bladder cancer cell apoptosis

Bladder cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed and fatal malignancies of the urinary tract. Noncoding RNAs have been reported to be new biomarkers and effective treatment targets for bladder cancer. In the present study, we identified a novel bladder cancer-related circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network, the circ_0004463/miR-380-3p/FOXO1 axis. circ_0004463 is significantly downregulated, whereas miR-380-3p is upregulated in bladder carcinoma tissue samples and cells. circ_0004463 acts as a tumor suppressor by inhibiting bladder cancer cell proliferation. Genes that negatively correlated with miR-380-3p and genes that miR-380-3p might target are enriched in mitochondrial respiration chain-related pathways. miR-380-3p promotes the proliferation of bladder cancer cells and mitochondrial respiration by acting as an oncogenic miRNA. circ_0004463 competes with FOXO1 for miR-380-3p binding to counteract miR-380-3p-mediated repression of FOXO1. Circ_0004463 overexpression inhibits cancer cell proliferation and mitochondrial respiration in bladder cancer cell lines, while miR-380-3p overexpression dramatically reverses the roles of circ_0004463 overexpression. In conclusion, the circ_0004463/miR-380-3p/FOXO1 axis could regulate mitochondrial respiration and bladder cancer cell apoptosis via FOXO1 signaling.

Crocin inhibits the activation of mouse hepatic stellate cells via the lnc-LFAR1/MTF-1/GDNF pathway

Crocin is the main monomer of saffron, which is a momentous component of traditional Chinese medicine Lang Qing A Ta. Here, we tried to probe into the role of crocin in liver fibrosis. Hematoxylin-eosin staining and Sirius Red staining were used to observe the pathological changes of liver tissues. After hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) were isolated from liver tissues, lnc-LFAR1, MTF-1, GDNF, and α-SMA expressions were detected by qRT-PCR and western blot. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence were used to detect α-SMA expression. Chromatin immunoprecipitation was used to analyze the binding of MTF-1 to the GDNF promoter. Moreover, the dual-luciferase reporter gene, RNA pull-down, and RNA immunoprecipitation were used to clarify the interaction between MTF-1 and GDNF, lnc-LFAR1 and MTF-1. The degree of liver fibrosis was more severe in the mice from the liver fibrosis model, while the liver fibrosis was alleviated by the injection of crocin. lnc-LFAR1, GDNF, and α-SMA were up-regulated, and MTF-1 was down-regulated in liver fibrosis tissues and cells, while these trends were reversed after the injection of crocin. Besides, lnc-LFAR1 negatively regulated MTF-1 expression, and positively regulated GDNF and α-SMA expressions, and MTF-1 was enriched in the promoter region of GDNF. Furthermore, the cellular direct interactions between MTF-1 and GDNF, lnc-LFAR1 and MTF-1 were verified. In vivo experiments confirmed the relief of crocin on liver fibrosis. Our research expounded that crocin restrained the activation of HSCs through the lnc-LFAR1/MTF-1/GDNF axis, thereby ameliorating liver fibrosis.

Possible A2E Mutagenic Effects on RPE Mitochondrial DNA from Innovative RNA-Seq Bioinformatics Pipeline

Mitochondria are subject to continuous oxidative stress stimuli that, over time, can impair their genome and lead to several pathologies, like retinal degenerations. Our main purpose was the identification of mtDNA variants that might be induced by intense oxidative stress determined by N-retinylidene-N-retinylethanolamine (A2E), together with molecular pathways involving the genes carrying them, possibly linked to retinal degeneration. We performed a variant analysis comparison between transcriptome profiles of human retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells exposed to A2E and untreated ones, hypothesizing that it might act as a mutagenic compound towards mtDNA. To optimize analysis, we proposed an integrated approach that foresaw the complementary use of the most recent algorithms applied to mtDNA data, characterized by a mixed output coming from several tools and databases. An increased number of variants emerged following treatment. Variants mainly occurred within mtDNA coding sequences, corresponding with either the polypeptide-encoding genes or the RNA. Time-dependent impairments foresaw the involvement of all oxidative phosphorylation complexes, suggesting a serious damage to adenosine triphosphate (ATP) biosynthesis, that can result in cell death. The obtained results could be incorporated into clinical diagnostic settings, as they are hypothesized to modulate the phenotypic expression of mtDNA pathogenic variants, drastically improving the field of precision molecular medicine.

Voretigene Neparvovec in Retinal Diseases: A Review of the Current Clinical Evidence

Subretinal gene therapy trials began with the discovery of RPE65 variants and their association with Leber congenital amaurosis. The RPE65 protein is critical for the normal functioning of the visual phototransduction cascade. RPE65 gene knockout animal models were developed and showed similar diseased phenotypes to their human counterparts. Proof of concept studies were carried out in these animal models using subretinal RPE65 gene replacement therapy, resulting in improvements in various visual function markers including electroretinograms, pupillary light responses, and object avoidance behaviors. Positive results in animal models led to Phase 1 human studies using adeno-associated viral vectors. Results in these initial human studies also showed positive impact on visual function and acceptable safety. A landmark Phase 3 study was then conducted by Spark Therapeutics using a dose of 1.5 x10¹¹ vector genomes after dose-escalation studies confirmed its efficacy and safety. Multi-luminance mobility testing was used to measure the primary efficacy endpoint due to its excellent reliability in detecting the progression of inherited retinal diseases. After the study met its primary endpoint, the Food and Drug Administration approved voretigene neparvovec (Luxturna^®) for use in RPE65-associated inherited retinal diseases.

Identification of curcumin as a novel natural inhibitor of rDNA transcription

Ribosomal DNA (rDNA) transcription drives cell growth and cell proliferation via the product ribosomal RNA (rRNA), the essential component of ribosome. Given the fundamental role of rRNA in ribosome biogenesis, rDNA transcription has emerged as one of the effective targets for a number of human diseases including various types of cancers. In this study, we identify curcumin, an ancient drug, as a novel natural inhibitor of rDNA transcription. Curcumin treatment impairs the assembly of the RNA polymerase I preinitiation complex at rDNA promoters and represses rDNA promoter activity, which leads to the decrease of rRNA synthesis. In addition, curcumin treatment stimulates autophagosome formation and promotes autophagic degradation in cells. Mechanistically, curcumin inactivates the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1), the upstream regulator of rDNA transcription and autophagy induction, by inhibiting mTOR lysosomal localization. Functionally, curcumin treatment inhibits protein synthesis, cell growth and cell proliferation. Taken together, these findings identify curcumin as an effective inhibitor of rDNA transcription and provide novel mechanisms for the anticancer properties of curcumin. Abbreviations: Atg: autophagy-related; GFP: green fluorescent protein; LAMP2: lysosomal associated membrane protein 2; LC3: microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3; MEF: mouse embryonic fibroblast; mTORC1: mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1; rDNA: ribosomal DNA; rRNA: ribosomal RNA; TP53INP2: tumor protein p53 inducible nuclear protein 2.

Biomarkers in Rare Demyelinating Disease of the Central Nervous System

Rare neurological diseases are a heterogeneous group corresponding approximately to 50% of all rare diseases. Neurologists are among the main specialists involved in their diagnostic investigation. At the moment, a consensus guideline on which neurologists may base clinical suspicion is not available. Moreover, neurologists need guidance with respect to screening investigations that may be performed. In this respect, biomarker research has emerged as a particularly active field due to its potential applications in clinical practice. With respect to autoimmune demyelinating diseases of the Central Nervous System (CNS), although these diseases occur in the frame of organ-specific autoimmunity, pathology of the disease itself is orchestrated among several anatomical and functional compartments. The differential diagnosis is broad and includes, but is not limited to, rare neurological diseases. Multiple Sclerosis (MS) needs to be differentially diagnosed from rare MS variants, Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM), the range of Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders (NMOSDs), Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein (MOG) antibody disease and other systemic inflammatory diseases. Diagnostic biomarkers may facilitate timely diagnosis and proper disease management, preventing disease exacerbation due to misdiagnosis and false treatment. In this review, we will describe advances in biomarker research with respect to rare neuroinflammatory disease of the CNS.

Antioxidant and Biological Properties of Mesenchymal Cells Used for Therapy in Retinitis Pigmentosa

Both tissue repair and regeneration are a priority in regenerative medicine. Retinitis pigmentosa (RP), a complex retinal disease characterized by the progressive loss of impaired photoreceptors, is currently lacking effective therapies: this represents one of the greatest challenges in the field of ophthalmological research. Although this inherited retinal dystrophy is still an incurable genetic disease, the oxidative damage is an important pathogenetic element that may represent a viable target of therapy. In this review, we summarize the current neuroscientific evidence regarding the effectiveness of cell therapies in RP, especially those based on mesenchymal cells, and we focus on their therapeutic action: limitation of both oxidative stress and apoptotic processes triggered by the disease and promotion of cell survival. Cell therapy could therefore represent a feasible therapeutic option in RP.

It takes two to tango: coupling of Hippo pathway and redox signaling in biological process

Hippo pathway is a chain of kinases consists of a series of protein kinases and transcription factors. Meanwhile, oxidative stress is a condition of elevated concentrations of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that cause molecular damage to vital structures and functions. Both of them are key regulators in cell proliferation, survival, and development. These processes are strictly regulated by highly coordinated mechanisms, including c-Jun n-terminal kinase (JNK) pathway, mTOR pathway and a number of extrinsic and intrinsic factors. Recently, emerging evidence suggests that Hippo pathway is involved in the responses to cellular stresses, including mechanic stress, DNA damage, and oxidative stress, to mediate biological process, such as apoptosis, pyroptosis, and metastasis. But the exact mechanism remains to be further explored. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to summarize recent findings and discuss how Hippo pathway, oxidative stress, and the crosstalk between them regulate some biological process which determines cell fate.

Inhibition of MicroRNA 6937 Delays Photoreceptor and Vision Loss in a Mouse Model of Retinitis Pigmentosa

Inherited retinal dystrophies (IRDs) are a group of rare retinal conditions, including retinitis pigmentosa (RP), caused by monogenic mutations in 1 out of more than 250 genes. Despite recent advancements in gene therapy, there is still a lack of an effective treatment for this group of retinal conditions. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of highly conserved small non-coding RNAs that inhibit gene expression. Control of miRNAs-mediated protein expression has been described as a widely used mechanism for post-transcriptional regulation in many physiological and pathological processes in different organs, including the retina. Our main purpose was to test the hypothesis that modulation of a group of miRNAs can protect photoreceptor cells from death in the rd10 mouse model of retinitis pigmentosa. For this, we incorporated modulators of three miRNAs in adeno-associated viruses (AAVs), which were administered through sub-retinal injections. The results obtained indicate that inhibition of the miR-6937-5p slows down the visual deterioration of rd10 mice, reflected by an increased electroretinogram (ERG) wave response under scotopic conditions and significant preservation of the outer nuclear layer thickness. This work contributes to broadening our knowledge on the molecular mechanisms underlying retinitis pigmentosa and supports the development of novel therapeutic approaches for RP based on miRNA modulation.

Novel Insights into Beta 2 Adrenergic Receptor Function in the rd10 Model of Retinitis Pigmentosa

Background: In retinitis pigmentosa (RP), inherited rod death is followed by cone loss and blindness. Why cones die is still a matter of consideration. Here, we investigate the pathogenic role of the sympathetic transmission in the rd10 mouse model of RP. Methods: Retinal levels of beta adrenergic receptor (BAR) 2 and norepinephrine (NE) were measured. After administration of the BAR1/2 blocker propranolol or the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1 activator dimethyloxalylglycine (DMOG), retinal levels of HIF-1α, BAR2 or proteins involved in BAR2 desensitization were also measured. In DMOG treated mice, expression and localization of BAR2, inflammatory markers and cone arrestin were determined. Finally, rd10 mice were subjected to electroretinogram (ERG) analysis to assess rod and cone function. Results: In the rd10 retina, BAR2 overexpression and NE accumulation were found, with BAR2 immunoreactivity localized to Müller cells. BAR2 overexpression was likely due to desensitization defects. Upregulated levels of BAR2 were drastically reduced by propranolol that also restored desensitization defects. Due to the low level of HIF-1 consequent to the hyperoxic environment in the rd10 retina, we hypothesized a link between HIF-1 and BAR2. HIF-1α stabilization with DMOG resulted in i. increased HIF-1α accumulation, ii. decreased BAR2 levels, iii. restored desensitization processes, iv. reduced expression of inflammatory markers and v. increased cone survival without improved retinal function. Conclusions: Our results support a pathogenic role of the sympathetic system in RP that might help to understand why rd10 mice show a positive response to BAR blockers.

In Vitro Maturation of Retinal Pigment Epithelium Is Essential for Maintaining High Expression of Key Functional Genes

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in the industrialized world. AMD is associated with dysfunction and atrophy of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), which provides critical support for photoreceptor survival and function. RPE transplantation is a promising avenue towards a potentially curative treatment for early stage AMD patients, with encouraging reports from animal trials supporting recent progression toward clinical treatments. Mature RPE cells have been reported to be superior, but a detailed investigation of the specific changes in the expression pattern of key RPE genes during maturation is lacking. To understand the effect of maturity on RPE, we investigated transcript levels of 19 key RPE genes using ARPE-19 cell line and human embryonic stem cell-derived RPE cultures. Mature RPE cultures upregulated PEDF, IGF-1, CNTF and BDNF—genes that code for trophic factors known to enhance the survival and function of photoreceptors. Moreover, the mRNA levels of these genes are maximized after 42 days of maturation in culture and lost upon dissociation to single cells. Our findings will help to inform future animal and human RPE transplantation efforts.