Licochalcone A Prevents Platelet Activation and Thrombus Formation through the Inhibition of PLCγ2-PKC, Akt, and MAPK Pathways

Research progress of traditional Chinese medicine compound "Chaihu Shugan Powder" in the treatment of premenstrual syndrome

BACKGROUND

This paper aims to conduct a comprehensive and insightful review and analysis of the potential targets and corresponding pathways of Chaihu Shugan Powder (CSP) for the treatment of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) using a network pharmacology approach. The review will encompass traditional applications, active ingredients of Chinese medicines, clinical applications, pharmacological mechanisms, and active ingredients.

METHODS

The active ingredients, pharmacological mechanisms, and clinical applications of the herbal ingredients in the CSP formulation were summarized by searching the literature, and the main signaling pathways of the CSP formulation for the treatment of PMS were identified by network pharmacological studies.

RESULTS

CSP is a representative traditional Chinese medicine formula known for its liver detoxification properties and its effectiveness in alleviating depression. It is also recognized as one of the most widely used formulas for treating PMS. In this study, we systematically summarized the active ingredients and pharmacological mechanisms of the 7 traditional Chinese medicine components present in CSP. Through network pharmacology analysis, we identified 75 common targets of CSP relevant to the treatment of PMS. These targets were predominantly concentrated within 17 specific signaling pathways, elucidating the potential molecular mechanisms underlying CSP's therapeutic effects on PMS.

CONCLUSION

In this paper, we have reviewed CSP and PMS, investigated the potential targets and corresponding pathways of CSP for the treatment of PMS, and systematically summarized the active ingredients and pharmacological mechanisms of 7 herbal components. In addition, 17 pathways of CSP for PMS were identified for future research and clinical application. However, the specific mechanism of action of CSP for the treatment of PMS is only based on literature and online pharmacological studies, and no basic or clinical experiments have been conducted. In addition, CSP has many components with complex and varied interactions, and the effects of certain compounds may be overlooked. Based on the present findings, it is beneficial to further explore the mechanism of action of the new effector compounds and the prospect of their application in basic research and clinical trials. In conclusion, the revelation of new effector compounds and mechanisms of action is conducive to the further clinical application of CSP, the discovery of new targets for PMS, and the modernization of Chinese medicine.

Therapeutic effects and molecular mechanisms of natural products in thrombosis

Thrombotic disorders, such as myocardial infarction and stroke, are the leading cause of death in the global population and have become a health problem worldwide. Drug therapy is one of the main antithrombotic strategies, but antithrombotic drugs are not completely safe, especially the risk of bleeding at therapeutic doses. Recently, natural products have received widespread interest due to their significant efficacy and high safety, and an increasing number of studies have demonstrated their antithrombotic activity. In this review, articles from databases, such as Web of Science, PubMed, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure, were filtered and the relevant information was extracted according to predefined criteria. As a result, more than 100 natural products with significant antithrombotic activity were identified, including flavonoids, phenylpropanoids, quinones, terpenoids, steroids, and alkaloids. These compounds exert antithrombotic effects by inhibiting platelet activation, suppressing the coagulation cascade, and promoting fibrinolysis. In addition, several natural products also inhibit thrombosis by regulating miRNA expression, anti-inflammatory, and other pathways. This review systematically summarizes the natural products with antithrombotic activity, including their therapeutic effects, mechanisms, and clinical applications, aiming to provide a reference for the development of new antithrombotic drugs.

Sanpian decoction ameliorates cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury by regulating SIRT1/ERK/HIF-1α pathway through in silico analysis and experimental validation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI) is a complex pathophysiological process involving multiple factors, and becomes the footstone of rehabilitation after ischemic stroke. Sanpian decoction (SPD) has exhibited protective effects against CIRI, migraine, and other cerebral vascular diseases. However, the underlying mechanisms have not been completely elucidated.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study sought to explore the potential mechanisms underlying the effect of SPD against CIRI.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) were carried out to determine the chemical constituents of SPD. A network pharmacology approach combined with experimental verification was conducted to elucidate SPD's multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway mechanisms in CIRI occurrence. The pharmacodynamics of the decoction was evaluated by establishing the rat model of middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/R). In vivo and in vitro experiments were carried out, and the therapeutic effects of SPD were performed using 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining, hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, and Nissl staining. We used terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining and flow cytometry to evaluate cortex apoptosis. The quantification of mRNA and corresponding proteins were performed using real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and Western blot respectively.

RESULTS

Our research showed that pretreatment with SPD improved neurological function and inhibited CIRI. Network pharmacology revealed that the hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) signaling pathway and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway-mediated apoptosis may be associated with CIRI. In vivo and in vitro experiments, we confirmed that SPD increased cerebral blood flow, improved neural function, and reduced neural apoptosis via up-regulating the expression of sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) and down-regulating phospho-extracellular regulated protein kinases (p-ERK)/ERK and HIF-1α levels in CIRI rats.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, the present study systematically revealed the potential targets and signaling pathways of SPD in the treatment of CIRI using in silico prediction and verified the therapeutic effects of SPD against CIRI via ameliorating apoptosis by regulating SIRT1/ERK/HIF-1α.

Licochalcone a improves cardiac functions after ischemia-reperfusion via reduction of ferroptosis in rats

Myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury triggers several cell death types, including apoptosis, autophagy, and ferroptosis. Licochalcone A (LCA), a natural flavonoid compound isolated from the root of Glycyrrhiza glabra, has been demonstrated to exert potential pharmacological benefits, such as antioxidant, antitumor, and anti-inflammatory activities. The present study aimed to investigate the involvement of ferroptosis in the pathogenesis of I/R and determine whether LCA can inhibit ferroptosis to prevent the myocardial I/R injury in rats. The effects of LCA on myocardial I/R injury were detected by examining the left ventricular-developed pressure and triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining. We conducted Western blotting analyses, ELISA assay, and quantitative real-time PCR to determine the levels of ferroptosis-related molecules. To demonstrate the cardioprotective effect of LCA in vitro, H9c2 and primary neonatal rat cardiomyocytes were co-treated with ferroptosis inducers (erastin, RSL3, or Fe-SP) and LCA for 16 and 24 h. Our ex vivo study showed that LCA increased the cardiac contractility, and reduced the infarct volume and ferroptosis-related biomarkers in rat hearts after I/R. Moreover, LCA reduced the levels of ferroptosis inducers-induced reactive oxygen species generation, lipid peroxidation, and ferroptosis-related biomarkers in cultured H9c2 cells and cardiomyocytes. LCA also reduced the Fe-SP-increased nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 and heme oxygenase-1 protein levels in cultured cardiomyocytes. In the present study, we showed that the LCA-induced cardioprotective effects in attenuating the myocardial I/R injury were correlated with ferroptosis regulation, and provided a possible new therapeutic strategy for prevention or therapy of the myocardial I/R injury.

Hydroxysafflor yellow A inhibits the hyperactivation of rat platelets by regulating the miR-9a-5p/SRC axis

Pathological platelet activation plays a vital role in the prevalence of cardiovascular diseases. Hydroxysafflor yellow A (HSYA) has been shown to have significant anti-platelet aggregation and anti-activation effects, but its mechanism of action is unclear. Our study showed that HSYA inhibited the expression of platelet surface glycoproteins IIβ/III α (GPIIβ/III α) and thromboxane A2 (TXA2) during platelet activation and reduced platelet Ca2+ accumulation. HSYA significantly reduced the number of platelets and inhibited adrenaline-induced platelet hyperaggregation in rats. Transcriptomic analysis of platelets suggested that HSYA significantly suppressed SRC and MAPK3 (ERK1/2) gene expression. YEEI peptide, an SRC activator, could significantly reverse the inhibition of HSYA on the phosphorylation of SRC/PLCγ2/PKCδ/MEK/ERK1/2 pathway proteins and reverse the effect of HSYA on platelet activation-related markers GPIIβ/IIIα protein, TXA2 and cAMP. The SRC genes were further predicted by transcriptome analysis of HSYA-regulated miRNAs combined with bioinformatics techniques. The results suggested that HSYA could significantly upregulate the expression level of the miR-9a-5p gene and further confirmed that miR-9a-5p had a targeted regulatory relationship with SRC by dual-luciferase activity reporter and cell transfection experiments. The inhibitory effect of HSYA on the SRC/PLCγ2/PKCδ/MEK/ERK1/2 pathway was significantly reversed after platelets were transfected with the miR-9a inhibitor, while SRC siRNA attenuated the effect of the miR-9a inhibitor. SRC siRNA was able to attenuate the effect of the miR-9a inhibitor. In conclusion, this study suggests that HSYA can inhibit the activation of the SRC/PLCγ2/PKC δ/MEK/ERK1/2 axis by upregulating platelet miR-9a-5p, thereby reducing the activation of platelets and inhibiting platelet aggregation.

Mechanisms of glabridin inhibition of integrin αIIbβ3 inside-out signals and NF-κB activation in human platelets

BACKGROUND

Platelets play a crucial role in cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and are activated by endogenous agonists like collagen. These agonists initiate signal transduction through specific platelet receptors, resulting in platelet aggregation. Glabridin, a prenylated isoflavonoid found in licorice root, is known for its significance in metabolic abnormalities. Glabridin has been observed to inhibit collagen-induced platelet aggregation, but the precise mechanisms, specifically concerning NF-κB activation and integrin α_IIbβ₃ signaling, are not yet fully understood.

METHODS

In this study, platelet suspensions were prepared from healthy human blood donors, and the aggregation ability was observed using a lumi-aggregometer. The inhibitory mechanisms of glabridin in human platelets were evaluated through immunoblotting and confocal microscopy. The anti-thrombotic effects of glabridin were assessed by histological analysis of lung sections in acute pulmonary thromboembolism and by examining fluorescein-induced platelet plug formation in mesenteric microvessels in mice.

RESULTS

Glabridin inhibited integrin α_IIbβ₃ inside-out signals such as Lyn, Fyn, Syk, and integrin β₃ activation and NF-κB-mediated signal events, with similar potency to classical inhibitors BAY11-7082 and Ro106-9920. Glabridin and BAY11-7082 inhibited IKK, IκBα, and p65 phosphorylation and reversed IκBα degradation, while Ro106-9920 only reduced p65 phosphorylation and reversed IκBα degradation. BAY11-7082 reduced Lyn, Fyn, Syk, integrin β₃, phospholipase Cγ2 and protein kinase C activation. Glabridin reduced platelet plug formation in mesenteric microvessels and occluded vessels in thromboembolic lungs of mice.

CONCLUSION

Our study revealed a new pathway for activating integrin α_IIbβ₃ inside-out signals and NF-κB, which contributes to the antiplatelet aggregation effect of glabridin. Glabridin could be a valuable prophylactic or clinical treatment option for CVDs.

Mechanism of Danggui Sini underlying the treatment of peripheral nerve injury based on network pharmacology and molecular docking: A review

Danggui Sini is a traditional Chinese medicine prescription for treating peripheral nerve injury (PNI). We studied the mechanisms of this decoction through network pharmacology analysis and molecular docking. Using R language and Perl software, the active components and predicted targets of Danggui Sini, as well as the related gene targets of PNI, were mined through TCMSP, GeneCards, OMIM, TTD, and DrugBank. The network diagram of active components and intersection targets was constructed using Cytoscape software and the STRING database. The CytoNCA plug-in was used to screen out the core compounds and key targets. The genes were analyzed for Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment. AutoDock was used to analyze the molecular docking of key targets and core compounds of diseases. The drug component disease target regulatory network showed that the key components included quercetin, kaempferol, naringenin, and licochalcone A, which play key roles in the whole network and may be the primary compounds associated with the action of Danggui Sini against PNI. PPI network topology analysis showed high degree values for RELA, JUN, MAPK1, RB1, and FOS. Enrichment analysis showed that the core targets of Danggui Sini participated in pathways associated with neurogenesis-multiple diseases. Molecular docking showed that the active ingredients in Danggui Sini had a good binding ability with key targets. We conclude that many active components of Danggui Sini play therapeutic roles in PNI treatment by regulating RELA, JUN, MAPK1, RB1, and FOS, and multiple other targets in inflammation, immunity, and lipid metabolism.

Paclitaxel exerts antiplatelet and antithrombotic activities: Additional benefit from use of paclitaxel-coated balloons and -eluting stents in coronary revascularization and prevention of in-stent restenosis

INTRODUCTION

Paclitaxel is a microtubule-stabilizing drug used to treat several types of cancer, including ovarian and breast cancer. Because of its antiproliferative effect on vascular smooth muscle cells, balloons and stents are coated with paclitaxel for use in coronary revascularization and prevention of in-stent restenosis (ISR). However, mechanisms underlying ISR are complicated. Platelet activation is one of the major causes of ISR after percutaneous coronary intervention. Although the antiplatelet activity of paclitaxel was noted in rabbit platelets, the effect of paclitaxel on platelets remains unclear. This study investigated whether paclitaxel exhibits antiplatelet activity in human platelets.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Paclitaxel inhibited platelet aggregation induced by collagen but not that induced by thrombin, arachidonic acid, or U46619, suggesting that paclitaxel is more sensitive to the inhibition of collagen-induced platelet activation. Moreover, paclitaxel blocked collagen receptor glycoprotein (GP) VI downstream signaling molecules, including Lyn, Fyn, PLCγ2, PKC, Akt, and MAPKs. However, paclitaxel did not directly bind to GPVI and cause GPVI shedding, as detected by surface plasmon resonance and flow cytometry, respectively, indicating that paclitaxel may interfere with GPVI downstream signaling molecules, such as Lyn and Fyn. Paclitaxel also prevented granule release and GPIIbIIIa activation induced by collagen and low convulxin doses. Moreover, paclitaxel attenuated pulmonary thrombosis and delayed platelet thrombus formation in mesenteric microvessels without significantly affecting hemostasis.

CONCLUSION

Paclitaxel exerts antiplatelet and antithrombotic effects. Thus, paclitaxel may provide additional benefits beyond its antiproliferative effect when used in drug-coated balloons and drug-eluting stents for coronary revascularization and prevention of ISR.

High mobility group box 1 derived mainly from platelet microparticles exacerbates microvascular obstruction in no reflow

INTRODUCTION

No reflow manifests coronary microvascular injury caused by continuous severe myocardial ischemia and reperfusion. Microvascular obstruction (MVO) has emerged as one fundamental mechanism of no reflow. However, the underlying pathophysiology remains incompletely defined. Herein, we explore the contribution of high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), derived mainly from platelet microparticles exacerbating MVO in no reflow.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

44 STEMI patients undergoing successful primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) were included in our study. Plasma HMGB1 levels in both the peripheral artery (PA) and infarct-related coronary artery (IRA) were measured by ELISA. Flow cytometry and confocal microscopy assessed the level of HMGB1⁺ platelet derived microparticles (PMPs) and platelet activation. Flow cytometry and western blot evaluated the procoagulant activity (PCA) and the release of inflammatory factors of human microvascular endothelial cells (HCEMCs).

RESULTS

HMGB1 levels were significantly higher in the IRA in no-reflow patients. The levels of HMGB1⁺ PMPs were considerably higher in the IRA of patients with no reflow and were strongly associated with platelet activation. Moreover, our results show that HMGB1 interacts with human microvascular endothelial cells primarily through TLR4, inducing HCMEC proinflammatory, procoagulant phenotype, and monocyte recruitment, accelerating microvascular obstruction and facilitating the development of no reflow.

CONCLUSION

Our results illustrate a novel mechanism by which HMGB1, derived mainly from PMPs, plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of no-reflow, revealing a novel therapeutic target.

cPKCγ Inhibits Caspase-9-Initiated Neuronal Apoptosis in an Ischemia Reperfusion Model In Vitro Through p38 MAPK-p90RSK-Bad Pathway

Strokes are one of the leading causes of death and disability in the world. Previously we have found that conventional protein kinase Cγ (cPKCγ) plays neuroprotective role in ischemic strokes. Further, we found that cPKCγ knockdown increased the level of cleaved (cl)-Caspase-3. However, the precise mechanisms underlying cPKCγ-mediated neuronal death remain unclear. To this end, a model incorporating 1 h oxygen-glucose deprivation/24 h reoxygenation (1 h OGD/24 h R) was established in cortical neurons. We found that cPKCγ knockdown remarkably increased neuronal death after OGD. We also found that cPKCγ knockdown increased the level of cl-Caspase-3 through the upstream initiators Capsases-9 (not Caspase-8/12) in OGD-treated neurons. Overexpression of cPKCγ could decrease neuronal death and cl-Caspase-3 and -9 levels. Moreover, cPKCγ knockdown further reduced the phosphorylation levels of p38 MAPK, p90RSK, and Bad. In addition, the protein levels of Bcl-2 and Bcl-xl were decreased after cPKCγ knockdown, whereas that of Bax was increased. In conclusion, our results suggest that cPKCγ partly alleviates ischemic injury through activating the p38 MAPK-p90RSK-Bad pathway and inhibiting Caspase-9 initiated apoptosis. This may have potential as a therapeutic target for ischemic stroke.

Potential common mechanism of four Chinese patent medicines recommended by diagnosis and treatment protocol for COVID-19 in medical observation period

The global epidemic has been controlled to some extent, while sporadic outbreaks still occur in some places. It is essential to summarize the successful experience and promote the development of new drugs. This study aimed to explore the common mechanism of action of the four Chinese patent medicine (CPMs) recommended in the Medical Observation Period COVID-19 Diagnostic and Treatment Protocol and to accelerate the new drug development process. Firstly, the active ingredients and targets of the four CPMs were obtained by the Chinese medicine composition database (TCMSP, TCMID) and related literature, and the common action targets of the four TCMs were sorted out. Secondly, the targets of COVID-19 were obtained through the gene-disease database (GeneCards, NCBI). Then the Venn diagram was used to intersect the common drug targets with the disease targets. And GO and KEGG pathway functional enrichment analysis was performed on the intersected targets with the help of the R package. Finally, the results were further validated by molecular docking and molecular dynamics analysis. As a result, a total of 101 common active ingredients and 21 key active ingredients of four CPMs were obtained, including quercetin, luteolin, acacetin, kaempferol, baicalein, naringenin, artemisinin, aloe-emodin, which might be medicinal substances for the treatment of COVID-19. TNF, IL6, IL1B, CXCL8, CCL2, IL2, IL4, ICAM1, IFNG, and IL10 has been predicted as key targets. 397 GO biological functions and 166 KEGG signaling pathways were obtained. The former was mainly enriched in regulating apoptosis, inflammatory response, and T cell activation. The latter, with 92 entries related to COVID-19, was mainly enriched to signaling pathways such as Coronavirus disease-COVID-19, Cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, IL-17 signaling pathway, and Toll-like receptor signaling pathway. Molecular docking results showed that 19/21 of key active ingredients exhibited strong binding activity to recognized COVID-19-related targets (3CL of SARS-CoV-2, ACE2, and S protein), even better than one of these four antiviral drugs. Among them, shinflavanone had better affinity to 3CL, ACE2, and S protein of SARS-CoV-2 than these four antiviral drugs. In summary, the four CPMs may play a role in the treatment of COVID-19 by binding flavonoids such as quercetin, luteolin, and acacetin to target proteins such as ACE2, 3CLpro, and S protein and acting on TNF, IL6, IL1B, CXCL8, and other targets to participate in broad-spectrum antiviral, immunomodulatory and inflammatory responses.

Glabridin, a Bioactive Flavonoid from Licorice, Effectively Inhibits Platelet Activation in Humans and Mice

Platelets are crucial for hemostasis and arterial thrombosis, which may lead to severe cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Thus, therapeutic agents must be developed to prevent pathological platelet activation. Glabridin, a major bioalkaloid extracted from licorice root, improves metabolic abnormalities (i.e., obesity and diabetes) and protects against CVDs and neuronal disorders. To the best of our knowledge, no studies have focused on glabridin’s effects on platelet activation. Therefore, we investigated these effects in humans and mice. Glabridin exhibited the highest inhibitory effects on collagen-stimulated platelet aggregation and moderate effects on arachidonic-acid-stimulated activation; however, no effects were observed for any other agonists (e.g., thrombin or U46619). Glabridin evidently reduced P-selectin expression, ATP release, and intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) mobilization and thromboxane A2 formation; it further reduced the activation of phospholipase C (PLC)γ2/protein kinase C (PKC), phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt/glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK3β), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and NF-κB. In mice, glabridin reduced the mortality rate caused by acute pulmonary thromboembolism without altering bleeding time. Thus, glabridin effectively inhibits the PLCγ2/PKC cascade and prevents the activation of the PI3K/Akt/GSK3β and MAPK pathways; this leads to a reduction in [Ca2+]i mobilization, which eventually inhibits platelet aggregation. Therefore, glabridin may be a promising therapeutic agent for thromboembolic disorders.

Therapeutic potential of traditional Chinese medicine in atherosclerosis: A review

Atherosclerosis is the onset of endothelial cell damage and is characterized by abnormal accumulation of fibrinogen and lipid in large and middle arteries. Recent researches indicate that traditional Chinese medicine including Notoginseng Radix et Rhizoma, Astragali Radix, Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma, Ginseng Radix et Rhizoma, Fructus Crataegi, Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma, Polygoni Multiflori Radix, Fructus Lycii, and Coptidis Rhizoma have therapeutic effects on atherosclerosis. Furthermore, the pharmacological roles of these kinds of traditional Chinese medicine in atherosclerosis refer to endothelial function influences, cell proliferation and migration, platelet aggregation, thrombus formation, oxidative stress, inflammation, angiogenesis, apoptosis, autophagy, lipid metabolism, and the gut microbiome. Traditional Chinese medicine may serve as potential and effective anti-atherosclerosis drugs. However, a critical study has shown that Notoginseng Radix et Rhizoma may also have toxic effects including pustules, fever, and elevate circulating neutrophil count. Further high-quality studies are still required to determine the clinical safety and efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine and its active ingredients.

Atheroprotective Effects of Glycyrrhiza glabra L

Cardiovascular diseases associated with atherosclerosis are the major cause of death in developed countries. Early prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis are considered to be an important aspect of the therapy of cardiovascular disease. Preparations based on natural products affect the main pathogenetic steps of atherogenesis, and so represent a perspective for the long-term prevention of atherosclerosis development. Numerous experimental and clinical studies have demonstrated the multiple beneficial effects of licorice and its bioactive compounds—anti-inflammatory, anti-cytokine, antioxidant, anti-atherogenic, and anti-platelet action—which allow us to consider licorice as a promising atheroprotective agent. In this review, we summarized the current knowledge on the licorice anti-atherosclerotic mechanisms of action based on the results of experimental studies, including the results of the in vitro study demonstrating licorice effect on the ability of blood serum to reduce intracellular cholesterol accumulation in cultured macrophages, and presented the results of clinical studies confirming the ameliorating activity of licorice in regard to traditional cardiovascular risk factors as well as the direct anti-atherosclerotic effect of licorice.

Petasites japonicus extract exerts anti-malarial effects by inhibiting platelet activation

BACKGROUND

New antimalarial agents are needed to combat emerging resistance to the currently available drugs. In the pathology of cerebral malaria, platelets play a central role by binding infected and uninfected red cells and the endothelium. Since Petasites japonicus extract was reported as an effective inhibitor of platelet activation, we examined the antimalarial activities of the P. japonicus extract.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of P. japonicus extract prepared from whole plants on malarial infection.

METHODS

The P. japonicus extract were characterized by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) profiling. Antimalarial activity of the P. japonicus ethanolic extract was evaluated in vitro using chloroquine-sensitive (3D7) and chloroquine-resistant (Dd2) P. berghei strains. Also, the in vivo activity of the extract was evaluated in P. berghei-infected mice via oral administration followed by a four-day suppressive test to measure the hematological parameters. In addition, platelet activation signaling induced by the P. japonicus extract in P. berghei infection was evaluated.

RESULTS

In HPLC study, catechin, rutin, liquiritin, 3,4-di-O-caffeoylquinic acid, 3,5-di-O-caffeoylquinic acid, and 4,5-di-O-caffeoylquinic acid were identified in P. japonicus extract. Exposure to the P. japonicus extract significantly inhibited both CQ-sensitive (3D7) and resistant (Dd2) strains of P. falciparum with IC₅₀ values of 8.48 ± 1.70 and 7.83 ± 6.44 μg/ml, respectively. Administration of the P. japonicus extract also resulted in potent antimalarial activities in P. berghei-infected mice with no associated toxicity. The treatment also improved the hematologic parameters. In addition, the survived mice from P. berghei infection exhibited the inhibition of collagen-induced platelet aggregation by attenuated glycoprotein VI (GPVI) downstream signaling.

CONCLUSION

P. japonicus extracts promote antimalarial effects both in vitro and in vivo. In addition, the effects appear to be induced by the inhibition of collagen-induced platelet activation related to attenuated GPVI downstream signaling. Further studies to identify and characterize the antimalarial compounds in P. japonicus will promote the development of new drugs.

Development of the Antithrombotic Peptide LEKNSTY Targeting the Collagen Surface: I. Design and Validation

Exposed collagen on the diseased vessel wall is crucial for arterial thrombosis. The currently developed antithrombotic drugs mostly target blood components such as platelets and suffer from the risk of bleeding. Therefore, anticollagen therapy of covering the collagen surface was proposed as an alternative in our previous study, and an antithrombotic peptide LWWNSYY was designed and validated. However, its application was hindered due to the poor water solubility. In the present study, in order to develop a novel antithrombotic peptide with enhanced water solubility, redesigning of LWWNSYY to LEKNSTY using the EK pattern was proposed. Improved solubility was obtained for LEKNSTY. Moreover, the binding of LEKNSTY on the collagen surface was confirmed by molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations, and experimental validation. A K_d of 0.91 ± 0.44 μM was observed. The effective inhibition of platelet adhesion on the collagen surface by LEKNSTY was demonstrated at an IC₅₀ of 2.48 ± 0.59 μg/mL. Therefore, the successful design of the antithrombotic peptide LEKNSTY was confirmed, which would facilitate the research into the interface involving thrombus and the development of antithrombotic agents.

Cellular Immune Signal Exchange From Ischemic Stroke to Intestinal Lesions Through Brain-Gut Axis

As a vital pivot for the human circulatory system, the brain-gut axis is now being considered as an important channel for many of the small immune molecules’ transductions, including interleukins, interferons, neurotransmitters, peptides, and the chemokines penetrating the mesentery and blood brain barrier (BBB) during the development of an ischemic stroke (IS). Hypoxia-ischemia contributes to pituitary and neurofunctional disorders by interfering with the molecular signal release and communication then providing feedback to the gut. Suffering from such a disease on a long-term basis may cause the peripheral system’s homeostasis to become imbalanced, and it can also lead to multiple intestinal complications such as gut microbiota dysbiosis (GMD), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), and even the tumorigenesis of colorectal carcinoma (CRC). Correspondingly, these complications will deteriorate the cerebral infarctions and, in patients suffering with IS, it can even ruin the brain’s immune system. This review summarized recent studies on abnormal immunological signal exchange mediated polarization subtype changes, in both macrophages and microglial cells as well as T-lymphocytes. How gut complications modulate the immune signal transduction from the brain are also elucidated and analyzed. The conclusions drawn in this review could provide guidance and novel strategies to benefit remedies for both IS and relative gut lesions from immune-prophylaxis and immunotherapy aspects.

Analysis of the Composition of Deinagkistrodon acutus Snake Venom Based on Proteomics, and Its Antithrombotic Activity and Toxicity Studies

There is a strong correlation between the composition of Deinagkistrodon acutus venom proteins and their potential pharmacological effects. The proteomic analysis revealed 103 proteins identified through label-free proteomics from 30 different snake venom families. Phospholipase A2 (30.0%), snaclec (21.0%), antithrombin (17.8%), thrombin (8.1%) and metalloproteinases (4.2%) were the most abundant proteins. The main toxicity of Deinagkistrodon acutus venom is hematotoxicity and neurotoxicity, and it acts on the lung. Deinagkistrodon acutus venom may have anticoagulant and antithrombotic effects. In summary, the protein profile and related toxicity and pharmacological activity of Deinagkistrodon acutus venom from southwest China were put forward for the first time. In addition, we revealed the relationship between the main toxicity, pharmacological effects, and the protein components of snake venom.

Study on the Mechanism of Baimai Ointment in the Treatment of Osteoarthritis Based on Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking with Experimental Verification

Purpose: The external preparation of the Tibetan medicine formula, Baimai ointment (BMO), has great therapeutic effects on osteoarthritis (OA). However, its molecular mechanism remains almost elusive. Here, a comprehensive strategy combining network pharmacology and molecular docking with pharmacological experiments was adopted to reveal the molecular mechanism of BMO against OA. Methods: The traditional Chinese medicine for systems pharmacology (TCMSP) database and analysis platform, traditional Chinese medicine integrated database (TCMID), GeneCards database, and DisGeNET database were used to screen the active components and targets of BMO in treating OA. A component-target (C-T) network was built with the help of Cytoscape, and the Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment through STRING. Autodock Tools which was used to dock the key components and key target proteins was analyzed. Animal experiments were performed to verify the key targets of BMO. Hematoxylin-eosin and toluidine blue staining were used to observe the pathology of joints. Protein expression was determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: Bioactive compounds and targets of BMO and OA were screened. The network analysis revealed that 17-β-estradiol, curcumin, licochalone A, quercetin, and glycyrrhizic acid were the candidate key components, and IL6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), MAPK1, VEGFA, CXCL8, and IL1B were the candidate key targets in treating OA. The KEGG indicated that the TNF signaling pathway, NF-κB signaling pathway, and HIF-1 signaling pathway were the potential pathways. Molecular docking implied a strong combination between key components and key targets. The pathology and animal experiments showed BMO had great effects on OA via regulating IL6, TNF, MAPK1, VEGFA, CXCL8, and IL1B targets. These findings were consistent with the results obtained from the network pharmacology approach. Conclusion: This study preliminarily illustrated the candidate key components, key targets, and potential pathways of BMO against OA. It also provided a promising method to study the Tibetan medicine formula or external preparations.

Regulation of Key Antiplatelet Pathways by Bioactive Compounds with Minimal Bleeding Risk

Cardiovascular disease is strongly influenced by platelet activation. Platelet activation and thrombus formation at atherosclerotic plaque rupture sites is a dynamic process regulated by different signaling networks. Therefore, there are now focused efforts to search for novel bioactive compounds which target receptors and pathways in the platelet activation process while preserving normal hemostatic function. The antiplatelet activity of numerous fruits and vegetables and their multiple mechanisms of action have recently been highlighted. In this review, we review the antiplatelet actions of bioactive compounds via key pathways (protein disulfide isomerase, mitogen-activated protein kinases, mitochondrial function, cyclic adenosine monophosphate, Akt, and shear stress-induced platelet aggregation) with no effects on bleeding time. Therefore, targeting these pathways might lead to the development of effective antiplatelet strategies that do not increase the risk of bleeding.

Influence of Vincristine, Clinically Used in Cancer Therapy and Immune Thrombocytopenia, on the Function of Human Platelets

Vincristine is a clinically used antimicrotubule drug for treating patients with lymphoma. Due to its property of increasing platelet counts, vincristine is also used to treat patients with immune thrombocytopenia. Moreover, antiplatelet agents were reported to be beneficial in thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). Therefore, we investigated the detailed mechanisms underlying the antiplatelet effect of vincristine. Our results revealed that vincristine inhibited platelet aggregation induced by collagen, but not by thrombin, arachidonic acid, and the thromboxane A₂ analog U46619, suggesting that vincristine exerts higher inhibitory effects on collagen-mediated platelet aggregation. Vincristine also reduced collagen-mediated platelet granule release and calcium mobilization. In addition, vincristine inhibited glycoprotein VI (GPVI) signaling, including Syk, phospholipase Cγ2, protein kinase C, Akt, and mitogen-activated protein kinases. In addition, the in vitro PFA-100 assay revealed that vincristine did not prolong the closure time, and the in vivo study tail bleeding assay showed that vincristine did not prolong the tail bleeding time; both findings suggested that vincristine may not affect normal hemostasis. In conclusion, we demonstrated that vincristine exerts antiplatelet effects at least in part through the suppression of GPVI signaling. Moreover, this property of antiplatelet activity of vincristine may provide additional benefits in the treatment of TTP.

A novel naphthalimide derivative reduces platelet activation and thrombus formation via suppressing GPVI

Naphthalimide derivatives have multiple biological activities, including antitumour and anti‐inflammatory activities. We previously synthesized several naphthalimide derivatives; of them, compound 5 was found to exert the strongest inhibitory effect on human DNA topoisomerase II activity. However, the effects of naphthalimide derivatives on platelet activation have not yet been investigated. Therefore, the mechanism underlying the antiplatelet activity of compound 5 was determined in this study. The data revealed that compound 5 (5–10 μM) inhibited collagen‐ and convulxin‐ but not thrombin‐ or U46619‐mediated platelet aggregation, suggesting that compound 5 is more sensitive to the inhibition of glycoprotein VI (GPVI) signalling. Indeed, compound 5 could inhibit the phosphorylation of signalling molecules downstream of GPVI, followed by the inhibition of calcium mobilization, granule release and GPIIb/IIIa activation. Moreover, compound 5 prevented pulmonary embolism and prolonged the occlusion time, but tended to prolong the bleeding time, indicating that it can prevent thrombus formation but may increase bleeding risk. This study is the first to demonstrate that the naphthalimide derivative compound 5 exerts antiplatelet and antithrombotic effects. Future studies should modify compound 5 to synthesize more potent and efficient antiplatelet agents while minimizing bleeding risk, which may offer a therapeutic potential for cardiovascular diseases.

Anti-obesity Medications in Cancer Therapy: A Comprehensive Insight

The interplay between cancer and obesity is multifactorial and complex with the increased risk of cancer development in obese individuals posing a significant threat. Obesity leads to the upregulation or hyperactivation of several oncogenic pathways in cancer cells, which drives them towards a deleterious phenotype. The cross-talk between cancer and obesity is considered a large contributing factor in the development of chemotherapeutic drug resistance and the resistance to radiotherapy. The link between obesity and the development of cancer is so strong that a medication that demonstrates effectiveness against both conditions would serve as an essential step. In this context, anti-obesity medications provide a worthy list of candidates based on their chemo-preventive potential and chemotherapeutic properties. The current study focuses on exploring the potential of anti-obesity medicines as dual anticancer drugs. These medications target several key signaling pathways (e.g., AMPK, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, MAPK, NF-κB, JNK/ERK), which prove to be crucial for both cancer growth and metastases. Some of these drugs also play an important role in attenuating the signaling and cellular events which incite cancer-obesity cross-talk and demonstrate efficient counteraction of neoplastic transformation. Thus, this review highlights a comprehensive view of the potential use of anti-obesity medicines to treat both cancer and obesity for patients exhibiting both comorbities.

Effect of Huoxiang Zhengqi Pill on Early Neurological Deterioration in Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke Undergoing Recanalization Therapy and Predictive Effect of Essen Score

Early neurologic deterioration (END) in the acute phase of ischemic stroke is a serious clinical event, which is closely related to poor prognosis. Therefore, it is important to identify presentation features that predict END and take relevant treatment measures, as they could help to prevent the deterioration of high-risk patients. The prospective intervention study was carried out from January 2018 to December 2019. We included consecutive patients hospitalized for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) within 6 hours of onset. Patients were randomly assigned (1 : 1) to recanalization therapy plus Huoxiang Zhengqi Pill (HXZQ) (intervention group) or standard recanalization therapy alone (control group). The primary outcome was the development of END according to predefined criteria within the first 1 week of stroke onset. Poisson regression was used to identify predictors for END. Of the 155 patients enrolled in the study (age, 63 ± 11 years; 28.4% female), 20 (12.9%) developed END. Univariate analysis showed that the use of HXZQ and Essen stroke risk score (ESRS) (low risk group) were protective factors for END, while advanced age was a risk factor for END. However, in multivariate analysis, only ESRS (OR, 0.232; 95%CI, 0.058–0.928; P=0.039) and the use of HXZQ (OR, 0.297; 95%CI, 0.096–0.917; P=0.035) were statistically significant. ESRS can be used as the prediction factor of END. HXZQ has small side effects and wide indication. It could be used in the treatment of AIS.

Phospholipase D1 and D2 Synergistically Regulate Thrombus Formation

Previously, we reported that phospholipase D1 (PLD1) and PLD2 inhibition by selective PLD1 and PLD2 inhibitors could prevent platelet aggregation in humans, but not in mice. Moreover, only the PLD1 inhibitor, but not PLD2 inhibitor, could effectively prevent thrombus formation in mice, indicating that PLD might play different roles in platelet function in humans and mice. Although PLD1 and PLD2 were reported to be implicated in thrombotic events, the role of PLD in mice remains not completely clear. Here, we investigated the role of PLD1 and PLD2 in acute pulmonary thrombosis and transient middle cerebral artery occlusion-induced brain injury in mice. The data revealed that inhibition of PLD1, but not of PLD2, could partially prevent pulmonary thrombosis-induced death. Moreover, concurrent PLD1 and PLD2 inhibition could considerably increase survival rate. Likewise, inhibition of PLD1, but not PLD2, partially improved ischemic stroke and concurrent inhibition of PLD1, and PLD2 exhibited a relatively better protection against ischemic stroke, as evidenced by the infarct size, brain edema, modified neurological severity score, rotarod test, and the open field test. In conclusion, PLD1 might play a more important role than PLD2, and both PLD1 and PLD2 could act synergistically or have partially redundant functions in regulating thrombosis-relevant events.

Study of Components and Mechanism of Juechuang Against Platelet Aggregation Based on Network Pharmacology

Juechuang, a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, is originated from Rostellularia procumbens (L.) Nees. Many studies have shown that the ethyl acetate extract from Juechaung may inhibit platelet aggregation. However, the antiplatelet aggregation mechanism of Juechuang requires more systematic research. In this article, network pharmacology was used to explore the antiplatelet aggregation components and its antiplatelet aggregation mechanism. Different components were evaluated and screened by pharmacokinetic characteristics. The potential targets of active ingredients were predicted by a reverse pharmacophore matching method, and the targets were screened according to targets related to antiplatelet aggregation in the GeneCards database. Thus, an interaction network of component-target-pathway of Juechuang was generated using Cytoscape 3.2.1. software. Furthermore, the binding energy of relevant active components with key targets was calculated using a Lamarck genetic algorithm in the molecular docking calculations. Finally, the study identified 28 potentially active ingredients in Juechuang, providing further evidence that the active ingredients act on 277 targets, and 38 protein targets related to antiplatelet aggregation were screened. Through the Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genome pathway enrichment analysis, we found that the mechanism of antiplatelet aggregation may be related to the Ras signaling pathway, platelet activation signaling pathway, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway, etc. Via molecular docking of 2 targets, non-receptor tyrosine kinases(SRC) and MAPK were selected for molecular docking. By comparing the molecular docking results of Chinensinaphthol, Taiwanin E, Tuberculatin, Cycloeucalenol, and Justicidin B to the control drug, we found that those test molecules combined with targets and lead to high binding activity. These molecular docking results were also consistent with the literature values, and they helped identify the active ingredients and assured the reliability of the network analysis. This study may further provide a reference for the systematic study of the pharmacodynamic effect and the antiplatelet aggregation mechanism of Juechuang.

Network Pharmacology-Based Approach Uncovers the Mechanism of GuanXinNing Tablet for Treating Thrombus by MAPKs Signal Pathway

BACKGROUND

GuanXinNing tablet (GXNT), a traditional Chinese patent medicine, has been found to have remarkable antithrombotic effects and can effectively inhibit pro-thrombotic factors in previous studies. However, the mechanism of its antithrombotic effects remains little known.

METHODS

In this study, we first determined and identified the sources of each main compound in GXNT using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Through the approach of network pharmacology, we predicted the action targets of the active components, mapped the target genes related to thrombus, and obtained potential antithrombotic targets for active ingredients. We then performed gene ontology (GO) enrichment analyses and KEGG signaling pathway analyses for the action targets, and constructed networks of active component-target and active component-target-pathway for GXNT. Additionally, we evaluated the pharmacodynamic effects of GXNT on thrombus using the rat thrombus model induced by FeCl3, observed the effects of antiplatelet aggregation via platelet assay, and further verified the results predicted by network pharmacology via Western blot.

RESULTS

In total, 14 active ingredients were identified in GXNT, and 83 action targets were predicted, 17 of which are antithrombotic targets that potentially participate in processes including response to oxidative stress and positive regulation of blood vessel endothelial cell migration. KEGG pathway analyses revealed that the predicted action targets were involved in multiple signal pathways, such as MAPK, IL-17, and platelet activation. Pharmacodynamics study found that GXNT could significantly reduce the thrombus length and weight, lower platelet aggregation function, and decrease the levels of Fbg and PAI-1. In addition, GXNT could significantly increase 6-keto-PGF1α content and regulate the ratio of TXB2/6-keto-PGF1α, while not having dramatic effects on TXB2. GXNT was also observed to visibly inhibit maximum platelet aggregation. Herein, we further studied the thrombus-related MAPKs signaling pathway and found that GXNT could significantly reduce the phosphorylation levels of p38MAPK, ERK, and JNK proteins in platelet.

CONCLUSIONS

This study revealed the pharmacodynamic material basis of GXNT and its potential multicomponent-multitarget-multipath pharmacological effects, confirmed the antithrombotic effects of GXNT, and showed that its mechanism may be related to inhibiting phosphorylation of p38, ERK, and JNK proteins in MAPKs signaling pathway, partially verifying the results from network pharmacology. The results from this study could provide a theoretical basis for the development and clinical application of GXNT.

VAS2870 and VAS3947 attenuate platelet activation and thrombus formation via a NOX-independent pathway downstream of PKC

NADPH oxidase (NOX) enzymes are involved in a various physiological and pathological processes such as platelet activation and inflammation. Interestingly, we found that the pan-NOX inhibitors VAS compounds (VAS2870 and its analog VAS3947) exerted a highly potent antiplatelet effect. Unlike VAS compounds, concurrent inhibition of NOX1, 2, and 4 by treatment with ML171, GSK2795039, and GKT136901/GKT137831 did not affect thrombin and U46619-induced platelet aggregation. These findings suggest that VAS compounds may inhibit platelet aggregation via a NOX-independent manner. Thus, we aimed to investigate the detailed antiplatelet mechanisms of VAS compounds. The data revealed that VAS compounds blocked various agonist-induced platelet aggregation, possibly via blocking PKC downstream signaling, including IKKβ and p38 MAPK, eventually reducing platelet granule release, calcium mobilization, and GPIIbIIIa activation. In addition, VAS compounds inhibited mouse platelet aggregation-induced by collagen and thrombin. The in vivo study also showed that VAS compounds delayed thrombus formation without affecting normal hemostasis. This study is the first to demonstrate that, in addition to inhibiting NOX activity, VAS compounds reduced platelet activation and thrombus formation through a NOX-independent pathway downstream of PKC. These findings also indicate that VAS compounds may be safe and potentially therapeutic agents for treating patients with cardiovascular diseases.

Embelin as a Novel Inhibitor of PKC in the Prevention of Platelet Activation and Thrombus Formation

Embelin is a quinone derivative and found in the fruits of Embelia ribes Burm.f. Embelin has been identified as a small molecular inhibitor of X-chromosome-linked inhibitor of apoptosis proteins, and has multiple biological activities, including antioxidation, anti-inflammation, and antitumor effects. However, the effect of embelin in platelets remains unclear. Thus, this study investigated the antiplatelet mechanism of embelin. Our data revealed that embelin could inhibit platelet aggregation induced by various agonists, including the protein kinase C (PKC) activator phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate (PDBu). Embelin, as well as the PKC inhibitor Ro 31-8220, markedly reduced PDBu-mediated phosphorylation of the PKC substrate, suggesting that embelin may be a PKC inhibitor for platelets. Embelin could block PKC downstream signaling and events, including the inhibition of protein kinase B and mitogen-activated protein kinase activation, granule release, and glycoprotein IIbIIIa activation. Moreover, embelin could delay thrombus formation in the mesenteric microvessels of mice, but did not significantly affect the tail bleeding time. In conclusion, we demonstrated that embelin is a PKC inhibitor and possesses antiplatelet and antithrombotic effects. The further analysis is necessary to more accurately determine clinical therapeutic potential of embelin in all clinical thromboembolic events with disturbance of thrombocyte function.

Biological Effects of Licochalcones

Medicinal plants and their natural bioactive molecules, are evaluated as the foundation for health preservation and care of humanity. The licorice root, known as "Radix Glycyrrhizae", is a perennial plant that comes from Mediterranean countries, central to southern Russia, Asia, Turkey, Iraq and Iran. The licorice root has been used in traditional Chinese medicines for centuries and has been defined as "the progenitor of herbs". The name 'Licorice' is derived from the ancient Greek word Glukurrhiza, meaning 'sweet root'. It consists of approximately 30 species, however, the most common ones consist of Glycyrrhiza glabra L., Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch and Glycyrrhiza Inflata. In addition, the licorice root contains chalcones, which are a part of an important class of natural products and are precursors of flavonoids. Chemically, chalcones are composed of two aromatic rings associated with α, β-unsaturated α-carbon ketone, representing the prima nucleus of the structure. They have been classified, according to chemical structures, in Licochalcone A, B, C, D, E, F and G. This review aims to highlight all the in vitro and in vivo studies that have been conducted on the licochalcones, extracted from Glycyrrhiza species. The main effects are as follows: anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, antimicrobial, antiviral, antiallergic, antidiabetic, hepatotoxic and osteogenic. It is important to implement the introduction of biologically active natural molecules from the bench (research) to the bedside (clinical practice). However, in the future, it is required to conduct additional studies to validate these biological effects.

Phenolic compounds from cultivated Glycyrrhiza uralensis and their PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitory activities

One new compound (1) and fifteen known phenolic compounds (2-16) were isolated and identified from the roots and rhizomes of Glycyrrhiza uralensis, including ten flavonoids, four coumarins, and two benzofurans compounds. Their structures were identified by NMR and MS analysis. Most of these compounds showed weak PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitory activities with the inhibition ratios from 30 to 65% at 100 uM. To our knowledge, it is the first time that their PD-1/PD-L1 inhibition activities were reported.

Molecular Pharmacology and Pathology of Strokes

Stroke, an important neurological disease, is becoming an increasingly non-communicable ailment and is the second leading cause of death after coronary heart disease in developed countries [...].

Licochalcone A attenuates abdominal aortic aneurysm induced by angiotensin II via regulating the miR-181b/SIRT1/HO-1 signaling

Licochalcone A (LA), a chalcone derived from liquorice, exhibits multiple biological activities, including anti-oxidation and anti-inflammation. This study aimed to investigate the role and underlying mechanism of LA in the abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). AAA model was established by continuous infusion of 1000 ng/kg/min of angiotensin II (AngII) in ApoE ^-/- mice for 4 weeks. At 7 days before AngII administration, 5 mg/kg/day or 10 mg/kg/day of LA was intraperitoneally administered to mice and continued for 4 weeks. The characteristics and quantification of AAAs were determined in situ. Real-time PCR or western blot was used to measure mRNA or protein levels of matrix metalloproteinase 2 and matrix metalloproteinase 9; pro-inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, and interleukin-6; apoptosis-related proteins Bax, Bcl-2, and active caspase-3; miR-181b; Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1); and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1). Mouse-aorta-origin vascular smooth muscle (MOVAS) cells were used to confirm the involved pathways in vitro. We found LA administration dose-dependently reduced the incidence of AngII-induced AAA, aneurysm diameter enlargement, elastin degradation, matrix metalloproteinase production, pro-inflammatory cytokines and miR-181b expression, and vascular smooth muscle cell apoptosis. It elevated SIRT1 and HO-1 expression that was suppressed by AngII. AngII enhanced miR-181b but reduced SIRT1 and HO-1 expression in MOVAS cells. In AngII-stimulated MOVAS cells, downregulation of miR-181b significantly upregulated the expression of SIRT1 and HO-1, the effect of which was abrogated by SIRT1 siRNA. Collectively, LA could attenuate AngII-induced AAA by modulating the miR-181b/SIRT1/HO-1 signaling. LA might be a potential medical therapy for small AAA.

Inhibition of miR-29b suppresses MAPK signaling pathway through targeting SPRY1 in atherosclerosis

The treatment of atherosclerosis (AS), a severe condition associated with the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), is still not satisfactory worldwide. In this study, we aim to investigate whether protein sprout homologue 1 (SPRY1), a upstream mediator of MAPK signal pathway, is the target of miR-29b in vascular endothelium during the development of AS. ApoE^-/- mice model was established, and an inverse correlation was noticed between level of miR-29b and SPRY1 expression in the aortic tissues. Meanwhile, the tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), reactive oxygen species (ROS) expression and NADPH oxidase activity were up-regulated in atherosclerotic tissues. In vitro experiments were carried out to investigate the roles of miR-29b in regulating the expression of SPRY1 in cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). We found that miR-29b mimic and antagomir could modulate the expression of SPRY1 protein in cultured HUVECs. However, the expression of SPRY1 mRNA showed no statistical difference when treating with miR-29b mimic or antagomir. These indicated that the modulation of SPRY1 induced by miR-29b was at the posttranslational level. Dural luciferase reporter assay was conducted to detect the potential interaction between miR-29b and the 3'UTR of SPRY1, which indicated that SPRY1 was a target of miR-29b. Besides, miR-29b antagomir induced decrease of TNF-α, ROS production and NADPH oxidase activity and down-regulated the expression of p-ERK and p-p38 in the presence of oxLDL. In conclusion, inhibition of miR-29b could attenuate AS by inhibiting the SPRY1/MAPK signaling pathway and inflammation in aorta. In future, treatment options based on miR-29b may be applicable for the treatment of AS.

PKCδ reveals a tumor promoter function by promoting cell proliferation and migration in somatotropinomas

Protein kinase C δ (PKCδ), a subtype of PKC family, has been recognized as a tumor promoter or suppressor depending on different tissue specificities in various tumor types. However, the effects of PKCδ on somatotropinomas are poorly understood. This study aims to explore the precise role of PKCδ in promoting tumor progression in somatotropinomas. In the present study, we examined the expression levels of PKCδ in clinical specimens of human somatotropinomas to show that PKCδ overexpression correlated with invasive properties of somatotropinomas. Furthermore, we employed rat anterior pituitary GH3 cells as the experiment model to demonstrate that PKCδ activation by PKC agonist (Phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate, PMA) significantly promoted the proliferation and migration potential of GH3 cells, and these effects could be abolished following PKCδ inhibition by specific inhibitor Rottlerin. Mechanistically, PKCδ activated ERK1/2 signaling, which was responsible for PKCδ-induced promotion of GH3 cell proliferation and migration. Taken together, our results indicated that PKCδ functions as a tumor promoter by promoting cell proliferation and migration in somatotropinomas.