Role of microRNA‑218‑5p in sevoflurane‑induced protective effects in hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury mice by regulating GAB2/PI3K/AKT pathway

Sevoflurane Mediates LINC00339/miR-671-5p/PSMB2 Axis to Improve Cardiomyocytes Against Hypoxia/Reoxygenation Injury

Ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) causes a deterioration in heart function, leading to myocardial infarction. It is aimed at investigating the protective mechanism of sevoflurane (Sevo) on cardiomyocytes by constructing a cellular model of hypoxic/reoxygenation (H/R) in this study.[Human hybrid] epithelioid cells (AC16) were induced by H/R to establish a model of myocardial I/R injury and Sevo postconditioning. The expression of long intergenic non-protein coding RNA 339 (LINC00339), microRNA-671-5p (miR-671-5p) and proteasome 20S subunit beta 2 (PSMB2) was detected by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Viability and apoptosis of AC16 cells were detected by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay and flow cytometry, respectively. The levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-10, tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-a), reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), were detected. LINC00339 expression was upregulated in H/R cardiomyocytes relative to the Control group, whereas Sevo decreased LINC00339 expression in H/R cardiomyocytes. The viability of AC16 cells were increased, and apoptosis, oxidative stress, and inflammatory responses decreased in the Sevo postconditioning group relative to the H/R group, but the protective effect of Sevo on H/R cardiomyocytes was partially reversed by LINC00339 overexpression. LINC00339 negatively regulated miR-671-5p, and miR-671-5p upregulation could alleviate the damage of LINC00339 on H/R cardiomyocytes. PSMB2, a downstream target gene of miR-671-5p, could inhibit the protective effect of Sevo on H/R cardiomyocytes. Sevo postconditioning exerts a protective effect in H/R-induced cardiomyocyte injury, which may be achieved by interfering with LINC00339/miR-671-5p/PSMB2 expression.

Protective effects of polydatin amphiphilic chitosan nanocarriers against an aluminum chloride-induced model of Alzheimer's disease in rats: relevance to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most frequent cause of dementia. Since there are complex pathophysiological mechanisms behind AD, and there is no effective treatment strategy, it is necessary to introduce novel multi-targeting agents with fewer side effects and higher efficacy. Polydatin (PD) is a naturally occurring resveratrol glucoside employing multiple mechanisms toward neuroprotection. In the current study, the anti-AD mechanisms of a novel amphiphilic chitosan nanocarrier formulation (ACN) of PD (NPD) were studied. After preparing the amphiphilic chitosan nanoformulation (i.e., NPD), physicochemical properties were assessed, including particle size, zeta potential, drug loading, drug release, MTT, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). For in vivo analysis, aluminum chloride (AlCl3) was injected intraperitoneally for 14 days to induce AD in male Albino Wistar rats. To examine the anti-AD mechanisms of NPD, a total of 36 rats were divided into six groups of six. Behavioral tests, including open field, Y-maze, elevated plus maze, and shuttle box were done on days 7, 8, 14, and 15. Additionally, zymography, biochemical analysis, and histological studies were done. NPD, as a newly synthesized formulation for PD, potentially improved memory and cognitive behavioral parameters and reduced the activity of inflammatory matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) and serum nitrite levels, while increasing anti-inflammatory MMP2, antioxidant catalase, and glutathione. NPD also prevented morphological changes and increased neuronal survival in the CA2, CA4, and DG regions of the rat hippocampus. In conclusion, NPD is a novel formulation against AD through anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective mechanisms.

Phytochemical-mediated efferocytosis and autophagy in inflammation control

Efferocytosis, the clearance of apoptotic cells, is a critical process that maintains tissue homeostasis and immune regulation. Defective efferocytosis is linked to the development of chronic inflammatory conditions, including atherosclerosis, neurological disorders, and autoimmune diseases. Moreover, the interplay between autophagy and efferocytosis is crucial for inflammation control, as autophagy enhances the ability of phagocytic cells. Efficient efferocytosis, in turn, regulates autophagic pathways, fostering a balanced cellular environment. Dysregulation of this balance can contribute to the pathogenesis of various disorders. Phytochemicals, bioactive compounds found in plants, have emerged as promising therapeutic agents owing to their diverse pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. This review aims to highlight the pivotal role of phytochemicals in enhancing efferocytosis and autophagy and explore their potential in the prevention and treatment of related disorders. This study examines how phytochemicals influence key aspects of efferocytosis, including phagocytic cell activation, macrophage polarization, and autophagy induction. The therapeutic potential of phytochemicals in atherosclerosis and neurological diseases is highlighted, emphasizing their ability to enhance efferocytosis and autophagy and reduce inflammation. This review also discusses innovative approaches, such as nanoformulations and combination therapies to improve the targeting and bioavailability of phytochemicals. Ultimately, this study inspires further research and clinical applications in phytochemical-mediated efferocytosis enhancement for managing chronic inflammatory and autoimmune conditions.

F13B regulates angiogenesis and tumor progression in hepatocellular carcinoma via the HIF-1α/VEGF pathway

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly aggressive malignant tumor with a poor prognosis. This research aimed to investigate the role of F13B in HCC and its underlying mechanisms. Through comprehensive bioinformatics analysis of the GSE120123 and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA)-Liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) datasets, we identified 220 overlapping prognosis-related genes. Eight key genes, including the previously unreported CCDC170 and F13B in HCC, were identified through Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO)-Cox regression analysis. F13B emerged as a significant prognostic factor in HCC, warranting further investigation in subsequent analyses. In vitro experiments showed that F13B expression was notably reduced in HCC cell lines and tissues, particularly in Huh-7 and SMMC-7721 cells. Overexpression of F13B inhibited cell invasion, migration, and proliferation, while its knockdown produced the opposite effect. A lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity assay in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) demonstrated that F13B overexpression reduced vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-induced cytotoxicity, whereas knockdown increased it. Further analysis revealed that F13B negatively regulates VEGFA expression, affecting HUVEC proliferation. In HUVECs, F13B overexpression reversed VEGF-induced upregulation of key angiogenesis markers, including phospho-VEGF receptor 2 (p-VEGFR2), matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), as well as AKT/mTOR signaling proteins, phospho-Akt (p-AKT), and phospho-mTOR (p-mTOR). Additionally, F13B negatively regulated VEGFA and hypoxia-inducible factor 1 A (HIF1A) under hypoxic conditions, counteracting the hypoxia-induced increase in cell viability. These findings suggest that F13B regulates angiogenesis through the HIF-1α/VEGF pathway and plays a crucial role in HCC progression. Our results highlight the potential of F13B as a therapeutic target in HCC, providing novel insights into the molecular mechanisms of HCC and its prognostic significance.

miR-218-5p promotes hepatic lipogenesis through targeting Elovl5 in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Investigating and identifying pathogenic molecules of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become imperative, which would serve as effective targets in the future. We established high-fat diet (HFD)-induced NAFLD model in mice and palmitic acid (PA)-induced model in mouse AML12 cells. The level of miR-218-5p was examined by qRT-PCR, and Elovl5 was identified as the potential target gene of miR-218-5p. The binding relationship between miR-218-5p and Elovl5 was validated by double luciferase reporter gene assay, and inhibition/overexpression of miR-218-5p in vitro. The functional mechanisms of miR-218-5p/Elovl5 in regulating lipogenesis in NAFLD were investigated in vivo and in vitro through gain- and loss-of-function studies. MiR-218-5p was significantly increased, and Elovl5 was decreased in model group. According to the double luciferase reporter and gene interference experiments in AML12 cells, Elovl5 was a target gene of miR-218-5p and its expression was regulated by miR-218-5p. The SREBP1-mediated lipogenesis signaling pathway regulated by Elovl5 was upregulated in model group. Moreover, silencing of miR-218-5p significantly upregulated Elovl5 expression, and suppressed SREBP1 signaling pathway in PA-induced AML-12 cells. Correspondingly, the cell injury, elevated TC, TG contents and lipid droplet accumulation were ameliorated. Furthermore, the effect of miR-218-5p on lipogenesis in vitro and in vivo was obstructed by si-Elovl5, implicating that miR-218-5p promotes lipogenesis by targeting ELOVL5 in NAFLD. miR-218-5p could promote fatty acid synthesis by targeting Elovl5, thereby accelerating the development of NAFLD, which is one of the key pathogenic mechanisms of NAFLD and provides a new molecular target for the management of NAFLD.

METTL3 Deficiency Aggravates Hepatic Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury in Mice by Activating the MAPK Signaling Pathway

Background: Inflammatory responses, apoptosis, and oxidative stress, are key factors that contribute to hepatic ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, which may lead to the failure of liver surgeries, such as hepatectomy and liver transplantation. The N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification has been implicated in multiple biological processes, and its specific role and mechanism in hepatic I/R injury require further investigation. Methods: Dot blotting analysis was used to profile m6A levels in liver tissues at different reperfusion time points in hepatic I/R mouse models. Hepatocyte-specific METTL3 knockdown (HKD) mice were used to determine the function of METTL3 during hepatic I/R. RNA sequencing and western blotting were performed to assess the potential signaling pathways involved with the deficiency of METTL3. Finally, AAV8-TBG-METTL3 was injected through the tail vein to further elucidate the role of METTL3 in hepatic I/R injury. Results: The m6A modification levels and the expression of METTL3 were upregulated in mouse livers during hepatic I/R injury. METTL3 deficiency led to an exacerbated inflammatory response and increased cell death during hepatic I/R, whereas overexpression of METTL3 reduced the extent of liver injury. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that the MAPK pathway was significantly enriched in the livers of METTL3-deficient mice. METTL3 protected the liver from I/R injury, possibly by inhibiting the phosphorylation of JNK and ERK, but not P38. Conclusions: METTL3 deficiency aggravates hepatic I/R injury in mice by activating the MAPK signaling pathway. METTL3 may be a potential therapeutic target in hepatic I/R injury.

Effects of sevoflurane and fullerenol C60 on lower limb ischemia-reperfusion injury in streptozocin-induced diabetic mice

BACKGROUND

Ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) poses a significant challenge for physicians, necessitating the management of cell damage and the preservation of organ functions. Various surgical procedures, such as vascular surgery on extremities, temporary cross-clamping of the abdominal aorta in aortic surgery, and the use of a tourniquet in extremity surgeries, may induce lower limb IRI. The susceptibility to IRI is heightened in individuals with diabetes. This study aimed to investigate the effects of fullerenol C60 and sevoflurane on mouse muscle tissue in a lower limb IRI model and to assess their potential in preventing complications arising from ischemia-reperfusion in mice with streptozocin-induced diabetes.

METHODS

A total of 36 adult Swiss albino mice were randomly divided into six groups, each consisting of six mice: control group (group C), diabetes group (group D), diabetes-ischemia/reperfusion group (group DIR), diabetes-ischemia/reperfusion-fullerenol C60 group (group DIR-FC60), diabetes-ischemia/reperfusion-sevoflurane group (group DIR-S), and diabetes-ischemia/reperfusion-sevoflurane-fullerenol C60 group (DIR-S-FC60). Streptozocin (55 mg/kg) was intraperitoneally administered to induce diabetes in the relevant groups, with mice displaying blood glucose levels of 250 mg/dL or higher at 72 h were considered diabetic. After 4 weeks, all groups underwent laparotomy under anesthesia. In DIR-FC60 and DIR-S-FC60 groups, fullerenol C60 (100 mg/kg) was intraperitoneally administrated 30 min before the ischemia period. Sevoflurane, delivered in 100% oxygen at a rate of 2.3% and 4 L/min, was administered during the ischemia period in DIR-S and DIR-S-FC60 groups. In the IR groups, a microvascular clamp was placed on the infrarenal abdominal aorta for 120 min during the ischemia period, followed by the removal of the clamp and a 120-min reperfusion period. At the end of the reperfusion, gastrocnemius muscle tissues were removed for histopathological and biochemical parameter examinations.

RESULTS

Histopathological examination revealed a significant reduction in the disorganization and degeneration of muscle cells in the DIR-S-FC60 group compared to the DIR group (p = 0.041). Inflammatory cell infiltration was notably lower in the DIR-S, DIR-FC60, and DIR-S-FC60 groups than in the DIR group (p = 0.031, p = 0.011, and p = 0.013, respectively). The total damage scores in the DIR-FC60 and DIR-S-FC60 groups were significantly lower than in the DIR group (p = 0.018 and p = 0.008, respectively). Furthermore, the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the DIR-S, DIR-FC60, and DIR-S-FC60 groups were significantly lower than in the DIR group (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, and p < 0.001, respectively). Catalase (CAT) enzyme activity in the DIR-S, DIR-FC60, and DIR-S-FC60 groups was higher than in the DIR group (p = 0.001, p = 0.014, and p < 0.001, respectively). Superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzyme activity in the DIR-FC60 and DIR-S-FC60 groups was also higher than in the DIR group (p < 0.001 and p = 0.001, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicate that administering fullerenol C60 30 min prior to ischemia in diabetic mice, in combination with sevoflurane, led to a reduction in oxidative stress and the correction of IR-related damage in muscle tissue histopathology. We believe that the administration of fullerenol C60 before IR, coupled with sevoflurane administration during IR, exerts a protective effect in mice.

The potential therapeutic effect of melatonin in oxaliplatin combination therapy against chemoresistant colorectal cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Oxaliplatin is one of the main therapeutics in colorectal cancer (CRC) chemotherapy. However, in light of multidrug resistance (MDR) phenotype development, the efficacy of oxaliplatin has decreased. This study aimed to assess the potential therapeutic effect of melatonin in oxaliplatin combination therapy for drug-resistant colorectal cancer cells.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Initially, the oxaliplatin-resistant cell line was created of LS174T (LS174T/DR) by using the oxaliplatin IC50 concentration and resting cycles. MTT assays and flow cytometry were applied for assessing cell viability and apoptotic cells. The mRNA expression level of Bax, Bcl2, MT1, MT2, and ABCB1 as well as protein levels of ABCB1, Bcl2, BAX were measured by the qRT-PCR and western blot techniques respectively. P-gp activity was assessed by Rho123 staining. The IC50 concentration of oxaliplatin in resistant cells was increased from 500.7 ± 0.2 nM to 7119 ± 0.1 nM. Bcl2, MT1, MT2, and ABCB1 mRNA plus protein expression levels of Bcl2 and ABCB1 were significantly reduced in resistant cells, along with a marked increase in Bax mRNA and protein levels compared to parental cells. Rho 123 staining revealed a marked reduction in P-gp activities in the combination-treated group compared to the oxaliplatin-treated group.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of cytotoxicity assays, MTT, and flow cytometry revealed that the combination of melatonin and oxaliplatin exerts synergistic effects on induction of oxaliplatin's cytotoxicity in CRC. Our research suggests that combining the treatments of melatonin and oxaliplatin may be considered as a new approach to overcoming oxaliplatin resistance in CRC patients.

Network pharmacology and molecular docking elucidate potential mechanisms of Eucommia ulmoides in hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury

Eucommia ulmoides (EU) and its diverse extracts have demonstrated antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and cytoprotective properties against hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury (HIRI). However, the primary constituents of EU and their putative mechanisms remain elusive. This study aims to explore the potential mechanisms of EU in the prevention and treatment of HIRI by employing network pharmacology and molecular docking methodologies. The main components and corresponding protein targets of EU were searched in the literature and TCMSP, and the compound target network was constructed by Cytoscape 3.9.1. Liver ischemia-reperfusion injury targets were searched in OMIM and GeneCards databases. The intersection points of compound targets and disease targets were obtained, and the overlapping targets were imported into the STRING database to construct the PPI network. We further analyzed the targets for GO and KEGG enrichment. Finally, molecular docking studies were performed on the core targets and active compounds. The component-target network unveiled a total of 26 efficacious bioactive compounds corresponding to 207 target proteins. Notably, the top-ranking compounds based on degree centrality were quercetin, β-sitosterol, and gallic acid. Within the PPI network, the highest degree centrality encompassed RELA, AKT1, TP53. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis elucidated that EU in HIRI primarily engaged in positive regulation of gene expression, positive transcriptional regulation via RNA polymerase II promoter, negative modulation of apoptotic processes, positive regulation of transcription from DNA templates, and drug responsiveness, among other biological processes. Key pathways included cancer pathways, RAGE signaling pathway, lipid metabolism, atherosclerosis, TNF signaling pathway, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, and apoptotic pathways. Molecular docking analysis revealed robust affinities between quercetin, β-sitosterol, gallic acid, and RELA, AKT1, TP53, respectively. This study reveals EU exhibits substantial potential in mitigating and treating HIRI through multifaceted targeting and involvement in intricate signaling pathways.

Non-coding RNAs: The potential biomarker or therapeutic target in hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury

Hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury (HIRI) is the major complication of liver surgery and liver transplantation, that may increase the postoperative morbidity, mortality, tumor progression, and metastasis. The underlying mechanisms have been extensively investigated in recent years. Among these, oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, immunoreactions, and cell death are the most studied. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are defined as the RNAs that do not encode proteins, but can regulate gene expressions. In recent years, ncRNAs have emerged as research hotspots for various diseases. During the progression of HIRI, ncRNAs are differentially expressed, while these dysregulations of ncRNAs, in turn, have been verified to be related to the above pathological processes involved in HIRI. ncRNAs mainly contain microRNAs, long ncRNAs, and circular RNAs, some of which have been reported as biomarkers for early diagnosis or assessment of liver damage severity, and as therapeutic targets to attenuate HIRI. Here, we briefly summarize the common pathophysiology of HIRI, describe the current knowledge of ncRNAs involved in HIRI in animal and human studies, and discuss the potential of ncRNA-targeted therapeutic strategies. Given the scarcity of clinical trials, there is still a long way to go from pre-clinical to clinical application, and further studies are needed to uncover their potential as therapeutic targets.

Melatonin targeting non-coding RNAs in cancer: Focus on mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets

Despite, melatonin is mainly known as a regulatory factor for circadian rhythm, its notable role in other fundamental biological processes, such as redox homeostasis and programmed cell death, has been found. In this line, a growing body of evidence indicated that melatonin could apply an inhibitory effect on the tumorigenic processes. Hence, melatonin might be considered an efficient adjuvant agent for cancer treatment. Besides, the physiological and pathological functions of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in various disease, particularly cancers, have been expanded over the past two decades. It is well-established that ncRNAs can modulate the gene expression at various levels, thereby, ncRNAs. can regulate the numerous biological processes, including cell proliferation, cell metabolism, apoptosis, and cell cycle. Recently, targeting the ncRNAs expression provides a novel insight in the therapeutic approaches for cancer treatment. Moreover, accumulating investigations have revealed that melatonin could impact the expression of different ncRNAs in a multiple disorders, including cancer. Therefore, in the precent study, we discuss the potential roles of melatonin in modulating the expression of ncRNAs and the related molecular pathways in different types of cancer. Also, we highlighted its importance in therapeutic application and translational medicine in cancer treatment.

Sevoflurane Preconditioning Downregulates GRIA1 Expression to Attenuate Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion-Induced Neuronal Injury

Cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury is the main cause of death following trauma. The neuroprotective effect of sevoflurane (Sev) has been implicated in cerebral I/R injury. However, the mechanisms remain elusive. In this study, we aimed to explore its function in PC12 exposed to oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) and in rats challenged with I/R. Sev pretreatment reduced the damage of PC12 cells after OGD/R treatment. Moreover, Sev pretreatment ameliorated neurobehavioral deficits induced by I/R treatment, reduced brain infarct volume, and decreased apoptosis of neurons in hippocampal tissues. Sev pretreatment reduced the surface expression of glutamate receptor 1 (GRIA1) in neurons, while GRIA1 reduced the neuroprotective effects of Sev pretreatment in vitro and in vivo. There was no difference in the surface expression of GRIA2 in rats with I/R and PC12 cells exposed to OGD/R. The ratio of GRIA1/GRIA2 surface expression was reduced, and calcium permeable-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptor (CP-AMPAR) was blocked by Sev. Together, Sev might exert beneficial effects on cerebral I/R-induced neuronal injury through inhibiting the surface expression of GRIA1 and blocking CP-AMPAR.

Experimental and Clinical Aspects of Sevoflurane Preconditioning and Postconditioning to Alleviate Hepatic Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury: A Scoping Review

Ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) is an inflammatory process inherent in organ transplantation procedures. It is associated with tissue damage and, depending on its intensity, can impact early graft function. In liver transplantation (LT), strategies to alleviate IRI are essential in order to increase the use of extended criteria donor (ECD) grafts, which are more susceptible to IRI, as well as to improve postoperative graft and patient outcomes. Sevoflurane, a commonly used volatile anesthetic, has been shown to reduce IRI. This scoping review aims to give a comprehensive overview of the existing experimental and clinical data regarding the potential benefits of sevoflurane for hepatic IRI (HIRI) and to identify any gaps in knowledge to guide further research. We searched Medline and Embase for relevant articles. A total of 380 articles were identified, 45 of which were included in this review. In most experimental studies, the use of sevoflurane was associated with a significant decrease in biomarkers of acute liver damage and oxidative stress. Administration of sevoflurane before hepatic ischemia (preconditioning) or after reperfusion (postconditioning) appears to be protective. However, in the clinical setting, results are conflicting. While some studies showed a reduction of postoperative markers of liver injury, the benefit of sevoflurane on clinical outcomes and graft survival remains unclear. Further prospective clinical trials remain necessary to assess the clinical relevance of the use of sevoflurane as a protective factor against HIRI.

Potential therapeutic applications of extracellular vesicles in the immunopathogenesis of COVID-19

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the cause of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) which has emerged as a global health crisis. Recently, more than 50 different types of potential COVID-19 vaccines have been developed to elicit a strong immune response against SARS-CoV-2. However, genetic mutations give rise to the new variants of SARS-CoV-2 which is highly associated with the reduced effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines. There is still no efficient antiviral agent to specifically target the SARS-CoV-2 infection and treatment of COVID-19. Therefore, understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 may contribute to discovering a novel potential therapeutic approach to the management of COVID-19. Recently, extracellular vesicle (EV)-based therapeutic strategies have received great attention on account of their potential benefits in the administration of viral diseases. EVs are extracellular vesicles containing specific biomolecules which play an important role in cell-to-cell communications. It has been revealed that EVs are involved in the pathogenesis of different inflammatory diseases such as cancer and viral infections. EVs are released from virus-infected cells which could mediate the interaction of infected and uninfected host cells. Hence, these extracellular nanoparticles have been considered a novel approach for drug delivery to mediate the treatment of a wide range of diseases including, COVID-19. EVs are considered a cell-free therapeutic strategy that could ameliorate the cytokine storm and its complications in COVID-19 patients. Furthermore, EV-based cargo delivery such as immunomodulatory agents in combination with antiviral drugs may have therapeutic benefits in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection. In this review, we will highlight the potential of EVs as a therapeutic candidate in the diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19. Also, we will discuss the future perspectives regarding the beneficial effects of Evs in the development of COVID-19 vaccines.

LncRNA NEAT1 Promotes Vascular Endothelial Cell Dysfunction via miR-218-5p/GAB2 and Serves as a Diagnostic Biomarker for Deep Vein Thrombosis

OBJECTIVE

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a common peripheral disease. This study aimed to elucidate the diagnostic biomarker of lncRNA nuclear-enriched abundant transcript 1 (NEAT1) in the DVT, and explore possible mechanisms in Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs).

METHODS

101 patients with lower extremity DVT and 82 healthy controls were enrolled. RT-qPCR was designed to resolve the mRNA levels of NEAT1, miR-218-5p, and GAB2. ROC was applied for the diagnosis of DVT. Systemic inflammation (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α) and adhesion factor (SELP, VCAM-1, and ICAM-1) were examined by the ELISA. And cell proliferation, migration, and apoptosis were conducted by the CCK-8, Transwell, flow cytometry assay. The targeting relationship was validated by Dual luciferase reporter and RIP analysis.

RESULTS

NEAT1 and GAB2 were upregulated in patients with DVT, while miR-218-5p was decreased (P < .01). Serum NEAT1 can identify DVT patients from healthy individuals. NEAT1 was positively correalted with fibrinolysis factors, coagulation factors, and vasoconstrictors. NEAT1 inhibited the proliferation, migration, and promoted apoptosis as well as inflammation and adhesion factors secretion of HUVECs (P < .05), but all were impaired by overexpression of miR-218-5p (P < .05). NEAT1 promoted GAB2 expression in DVT by acting as a sponge for miR-218-5p.

CONCLUSION

Elevated NEAT1 is a possible DVT diagnostic biomarker, and is implicated in vascular endothelial cell dysfunction via miR-218-5p/GAB2 axis.

Evaluation of anti-oxidant and antimelanogenic effects of the essential oil and extracts of Rosa × damascena in B16F10 murine melanoma cell line

Objectives

Rosa × damascena Herrm. belonging to the Rosaceae family has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects previously. Excessive production of free radicals and activation of tyrosinase enzyme caused by UV induces excessive concentration of melanin pigment and skin spots in the long term. Therefore, finding natural sources with anti-oxidant and antityrosinase effects helps to regulate the melanogenesis process. In the current research, we investigated the antimelanogenic, anti-oxidant, and anti-tyrosinase effects of its essential oil, methanol extract (MeOH), and different fractions including n-hexane, dichloromethane (CH2Cl2), n-butanol (BuOH), ethyl acetate (EtOAc), and H2O of R. × damascena in B16F10 cell line.

Materials and Methods

For this purpose, impacts of extracts and essential oil of R. × damascena were investigated on cell viability, cellular tyrosinase, melanin content, mushroom tyrosinase, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, as well as the amount of tyrosinase protein in the B16F10 murine melanoma cell line.

Results

Essential oil, MeOH, and different fractions of R. × damascena were not cytotoxic on B16F10 cells. However, they had significant reducing effects on mushroom tyrosinase activity, melanin content, and ROS production. Also, there is a significant decrease in tyrosinase protein levels at 200 µg/ml but not at other concentrations.

Conclusion

Therefore, the essential oil, MeOH, and different fractions of R. × damascena had promising antimelanogenic activity via repression of mushroom tyrosinase activity and ROS production.

Resveratrol in breast cancer treatment: from cellular effects to molecular mechanisms of action

Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most common cancers in females and is responsible for the highest cancer-related deaths following lung cancer. The complex tumor microenvironment and the aggressive behavior, heterogenous nature, high proliferation rate, and ability to resist treatment are the most well-known features of BC. Accordingly, it is critical to find an effective therapeutic agent to overcome these deleterious features of BC. Resveratrol (RES) is a polyphenol and can be found in common foods, such as pistachios, peanuts, bilberries, blueberries, and grapes. It has been used as a therapeutic agent for various diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, inflammation, and cancer. The anticancer mechanisms of RES in regard to breast cancer include the inhibition of cell proliferation, and reduction of cell viability, invasion, and metastasis. In addition, the synergistic effects of RES in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents, such as docetaxel, paclitaxel, cisplatin, and/or doxorubicin may contribute to enhancing the anticancer properties of RES on BC cells. Although, it demonstrates promising therapeutic features, the low water solubility of RES limits its use, suggesting the use of delivery systems to improve its bioavailability. Several types of nano drug delivery systems have therefore been introduced as good candidates for RES delivery. Due to RES's promising potential as a chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic agent for BC, this review aims to explore the anticancer mechanisms of RES using the most up to date research and addresses the effects of using nanomaterials as delivery systems to improve the anticancer properties of RES.

Dietary Polyphenols: Extraction, Identification, Bioavailability, and Role for Prevention and Treatment of Colorectal and Prostate Cancers

Fruits, vegetables, and other edible plants in our diet have numerous health benefits, due to the bioactive compounds in these food items, including polyphenols. These plants are a rich and promising source of natural products and phytochemicals that can be used to treat and prevent numerous diseases and prevent the progression of cancer. Dietary polyphenols exhibit chemo-preventive and therapeutic effects against various ailments, including several types of cancer. The current study focuses on polyphenol’s traditional and advanced extraction methods, with supercritical extraction as a novel approach. It also deals with their identification, bioavailability, and role in preventing and treating colorectal and prostate cancers. Additionally, the article covers the literature that deals with the anticancer activities of polyphenols, as well as their potential use as anticancer agents.

Melatonin and verteporfin synergistically suppress the growth and stemness of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma through the regulation of mitochondrial dynamics

The prevalence of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) has continued to rise for decades. However, drug resistance to chemotherapeutics and relapse, mediated by cancer stem cells (CSCs), remains a significant impediment in clinical oncology to achieve successful treatment. Therefore, we focused on analyzing CSCs in HNSCC and demonstrated the effect of melatonin (Mel) and verteporfin (VP) on SCC-25 cells. HNSCC CSCs were enriched in the reactive oxygen species-low state and in sphere-forming cultures. Combination treatment with Mel and VP decreased HNSCC viability and increased apoptosis without causing significant damage to normal cells. Sphere-forming ability and stem cell population were reduced by co-treatment with Mel and VP, while mitochondrial ROS level was increased by the treatment. Furthermore, the expression of mitophagy markers, parkin and PINK1, was significantly decreased in the co-treated cells. Mel and VP induced mitochondrial depolarization and inhibited mitochondrial function. Parkin/TOM20 was localized near the nucleus and formed clusters of mitochondria in the cells after treatment. Moreover, Mel and VP downregulated the expression of markers involved in epithelial-mesenchymal transition and metastasis. The migration capacity of cells was significantly decreased by co-treatment with Mel and VP, accompanied by the down-regulation of MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression. Taken together, these results indicate that co-treatment with Mel and VP induces mitochondrial dysfunction, resulting in the apoptosis of CSCs. Mel and VP could thus be further investigated as potential therapies for HNSCC through their action on CSCs.

Potential Therapeutic Effects of Melatonin Mediate via miRNAs in Cancer

miRNAs are evolutionarily conserved non-coding ribonucleic acids with a length of between 19 and 25 nucleotides. Because of their ability to regulate gene expression, miRNAs have an important function in the controlling of various biological processes, such as cell cycle, differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis. Owing to the long-standing regulative potential of miRNAs in tumor-suppressive pathways, scholars have recently paid closer attention to the expression profile of miRNAs in various types of cancer. Melatonin, an indolic compound secreted from pineal gland and some peripheral tissues, has been considered as an effective anti-tumor hormone in a wide spectrum of cancers. Furthermore, it induces apoptosis, inhibits tumor metastasis and invasion, and also angiogenesis. A growing body of evidence indicates the effects of melatonin on miRNAs expression in broad spectrum of diseases, including cancer. Due to the long-term effects of the regulation of miRNAs expression, melatonin could be a promising therapeutic factor in the treatment of cancers via the regulation of miRNAs. Therefore, in this review, we will discuss the effects of melatonin on miRNAs expression in various types of cancers.