Mitochondrial Dysfunction in the Cardio-Renal Axis

Heat stress suppresses MnSOD expression via p53-Sp1 interaction and induces oxidative stress damage in endothelial cells: Protective effects of MitoQ10 and Pifithrin-α

Aim

To investigate the mechanism of p53-mediated suppression of heat stress-induced oxidative stress damage by manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) in endothelial cells (ECs).

Methods

Primary ECs isolated from mouse aortas were used to examine the effects of heat stress on vascular ECs viability and apoptosis. We measured MnSOD expression, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, p53 expression, viability, and apoptosis of heat stress-induced ECs. We also tested the protective effects of MitoQ10, a mitochondrial-targeted antioxidant, and Pifithrin-α, a p53 inhibitor, in ECs from a mouse model of heat stroke.

Results

Heat stress increased cellular apoptosis, ROS production, and p53 expression, while reducing cellular viability and MnSOD expression in ECs. We also showed that the suppression of MnSOD expression by heat stress in ECs was mediated by interactions between p53 and Sp1. Furthermore, MitoQ10 and Pifithrin-α alleviated heat stress-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in ECs.

Conclusion

Our results revealed that p53-mediated MnSOD downregulation is a key mechanism for heat stress-induced oxidative stress damage in ECs and indicated that MitoQ10 and Pifithrin-α could be potential therapeutic agents for heat stroke.

Oxalate Homeostasis in Non-Stone-Forming Chronic Kidney Disease: A Review of Key Findings and Perspectives

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a significant global public health concern associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. The maintenance of oxalate homeostasis plays a critical role in preserving kidney health, particularly in the context of CKD. Although the relationship between oxalate and kidney stone formation has been extensively investigated, our understanding of oxalate homeostasis in non-stone-forming CKD remains limited. This review aims to present an updated analysis of the existing literature, focusing on the intricate mechanisms involved in oxalate homeostasis in patients with CKD. Furthermore, it explores the key factors that influence oxalate accumulation and discusses the potential role of oxalate in CKD progression and prognosis. The review also emphasizes the significance of the gut-kidney axis in CKD oxalate homeostasis and provides an overview of current therapeutic strategies, as well as potential future approaches. By consolidating important findings and perspectives, this review offers a comprehensive understanding of the present knowledge in this field and identifies promising avenues for further research.