COX-2 promotes mammary adipose tissue inflammation, local estrogen biosynthesis, and carcinogenesis in high-sugar/fat diet treated mice

In vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory properties of an active fucoidan fraction from Sargassum fusiforme and a fraction-based hydrogel

In a previous study, we separated an active fucoidan (JHCF4) from acid-processed Sargassum fusiforme, then analyzed and confirmed its structure. In the present study, we investigated the potential anti-inflammatory properties of JHCF4 and a JHCF4-based hydrogel in vitro and in vivo. JHCF4 reliably inhibited nitric oxide (NO) production in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 macrophages, with an IC50 of 22.35 μg/ml. Furthermore, JHCF4 attenuated the secretion of prostaglandin E2, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6, indicating that JHCF4 regulates inflammatory reactions. In addition, JHCF4 downregulated iNOS and COX-2 and inhibited the activation of the MAPK pathway. According to further in vivo analyses, JHCF4 significantly reduced the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), NO production, and cell death in an LPS-induced zebrafish model, suggesting that JHCF4 exhibits anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally, a JHCF4-based hydrogel was developed, and its properties were evaluated. The hydrogel significantly decreased inflammatory and nociceptive responses in carrageenan (carr)-induced mouse paws by reducing the increase in paw thickness and decreasing neutrophil infiltration in the basal and subcutaneous layers of the toe epidermis. These results indicate that JHCF4 exhibits potential anti-inflammatory activity in vitro and in vivo and that JHCF4-based hydrogels have application prospects in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical fields.

Mind the Gap: Unraveling the Intricate Dance Between Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias and Bone Health

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review examines the linked pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease/related dementia (AD/ADRD) and bone disorders like osteoporosis. The emphasis is on "inflammaging"-a low-level inflammation common to both, and its implications in an aging population.

RECENT FINDINGS

Aging intensifies both ADRD and bone deterioration. Notably, ADRD patients have a heightened fracture risk, impacting morbidity and mortality, though it is uncertain if fractures worsen ADRD. Therapeutically, agents targeting inflammation pathways, especially Nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-kB) and TNF-α, appear beneficial for both conditions. Additionally, treatments like Sirtuin 1 (SIRT-1), known for anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, are gaining attention. The interconnectedness of AD/ADRD and bone health necessitates a unified treatment approach. By addressing shared mechanisms, we can potentially transform therapeutic strategies, enriching our understanding and refining care in our aging society. This review article is part of a series of multiple manuscripts designed to determine the utility of using artificial intelligence for writing scientific reviews.

High-Fat Diet Has a Protective Sex-Dependent Effect on Aortic Aneurysm Severity in a Marfan Syndrome Mouse Model

BACKGROUND

Marfan syndrome (MFS) is a genetic disorder caused by mutations in fibrillin-1 and is characterized by thoracic aortic aneurysms and other complications. Previous studies revealed sexual dimorphisms in formation of aortic aneurysm in patients with MFS. The current study aimed to investigate the combined role of a high-fat diet (HFD) and biological sex in aortic disease using the mgR/mgR MFS mouse model.

METHODS

Male and female mgR/mgR mice, as well as wild-type (WT) littermate mice, were fed a control diet (CD [10% fat]) or HFD (60% fat) from 4 to 12 weeks of age. Key aortic disease parameters analyzed included the diameter of the aortic wall; elastic fibre fragmentation; proteoglycan content; mRNA levels of Mmp12, Col1a1, Col3a1, and Fbn1; and fibrillin-1 deposition in the aortic wall.

RESULTS

HFD-fed female mgR/mgR mice had significantly reduced aortic diameters (35%), elastic fibre fragmentation (56%), pathologically enhanced proteoglycans (45%), and expression of Mmp12 (64%), Col1a1 (41%), and Col3a1 (43%) compared with male mgR/mgR mice on HFD. Fibrillin-1 deposition and Fbn1 mRNA levels were unaffected. The data reveal a protective effect of HFD in female mice. In contrast, CD did not exert any protective effects.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates a specific sexual dimorphism in MFS mice, with HFD exerting an explicit protective effect on severity of aortic disease in female mice. These preclinical data may be useful for developing nutritional recommendations for individuals with MFS in the longer term.

The Prebiotic Effects of an Extract with Antioxidant Properties from Morus alba L. Contribute to Ameliorate High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity in Mice

Obesity is a global health issue, in which modifications in gut microbiota composition have a key role. Different therapeutic strategies are being developed in combination with diet and exercise, including the use of plant extracts, such as those obtained from Morus alba L. leaves. Recent studies have revealed their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The aim of the present work was to evaluate whether the beneficial effects of M. alba L. leaf extract in high-fat diet-induced obesity in mice is correlated with its impact on gut microbiota. The extract reduced body weight gain and attenuated lipid accumulation, as well as increased glucose sensitivity. These effects were associated with an amelioration of the obesity-associated inflammatory status, most probably due to the described antioxidant properties of the extract. Moreover, M. alba L. leaf extract mitigated gut dysbiosis, which was evidenced by the restoration of the Firmicutes/Bacteroidota ratio and the decrease in plasma lipopolysaccharide (LPS) levels. Specifically, the extract administration reduced Alistipes and increased Faecalibaculum abundance, these effects being correlated with the beneficial effects exerted by the extract on the obesity-associated inflammation. In conclusion, anti-obesogenic effects of M. alba L. leaf extract may be mediated through the amelioration of gut dysbiosis.

Design, synthesis, modeling studies and biological evaluation of pyrazole derivatives linked to oxime and nitrate moieties as nitric oxide donor selective COX-2 and aromatase inhibitors with dual anti-inflammatory and anti-neoplastic activities

Two new series of pyrazole derivatives 10a-f and 11a-f with selective COX-2 inhibition pharmacophore and oxime/nitrate moieties as NO donor moiety were designed, synthesized and tested for anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic activities and NO release. Compounds 10c, 11a, 11e were more selective for COX-2 isozyme (S.I. = 25.95, 22.52 and 21.54 respectively) in comparison to celecoxib (S.I. = 21.41). Regarding anti-cancer activity, all synthesized compounds were screened by the National Cancer Institute (NCI), Bethesda, USA for anticancer activity against 60 human cancer cell lines representing the following cancer types: leukemia, non-small cell lung, colon, CNS, melanoma, ovarian, renal, prostate, and breast cancers. Compounds 10c, 11a, 11e were found to be the most potent inhibitors on breast, ovarian and melanoma cell lines (MCF-7, IGROV1 and SK-MEL-5), compound 11a causing 79 % inhibition in case of MCF-7, 78.80 % inhibition in case of SK-MEL-5 and unexpected cell growth -26.22 % inhibition in case of IGROV1 (IC₅₀ = 3.12, 4.28, 4.13 μM respectively). On the other hand, compounds 10c and 11e showed lower inhibition on the same cell lines with IC₅₀ = 3.58, 4.58, 4.28 μM respectively for 10c, IC₅₀ = 3.43, 4.73, 4.43 μM respectively for 11e. Furthermore, DNA-flow cytometric analysis showed that compound 11a induces cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase leading to cell proliferation inhibition and apoptosis. Additionally, these derivatives examined against F180 fibroblasts to investigate their selectivity indexes. The pyrazole derivative with internal oxime 11a was the most potent compound against most used cell lines especially MCF-7, IGROV1 and SK-MEL-5 (IC₅₀ = 3.12, 4.28, 4.13 μM respectively) with 4.82-fold selectivity towards MCF-7 than F180 fibroblasts. Moreover, oxime derivative 11a showed potent aromatase inhibitory activity (IC₅₀ 16.50 μM) when compared with reference compound letrozole (IC₅₀ 15.60 μM). All compounds 10a-f and 11a-f released NO in a slow rate (0.73-3.88 %) and the six derivatives 10c, 10e, 11a, 11b, 11c and 11e were the highest NO releasers (3.88, 2.15, 3.27, 2.27, 2.55 and 3.74 % respectively). Herein structure based and ligand based studies were implemented to under stand and evaluate the compounds activity for further in vivo and preclinical studies. Docking mode of final designed compounds with celecoxib (ID: 3LN1) represented that their triazole ring adopted as the core aryl in Y shaped structure. Regarding aromatase enzyme inhibition, docking was carried out with ID: 1 M17. The internal oxime series was more active as anticancer because of their ability to form extra HBs with receptor cleft.

Guettarda crispiflora Vahl Methanol Extract Ameliorates Acute Lung Injury and Gastritis by Suppressing Src Phosphorylation

Many species in the genus Guettarda are known to exert anti-inflammatory effects and are used as traditional medicinal plants to treat various inflammatory symptoms. However, no studies on the inflammatory activities of Guettarda crispiflora Vahl have been reported. The aim of the study was to investigate in vitro and in vivo the anti-inflammatory effects of a methanol extract of Guettarda crispiflora Vahl (Gc-ME). To determine the anti-inflammatory activity of Gc-ME, lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-, poly(I:C)-, or Pam3CSK4-treated RAW264.7 cells, HCl/EtOH- and LPS-treated mice were employed for in vitro and in vivo tests. LPS-induced nitric oxide production in RAW264.7 cells was determined by Griess assays and cytokine gene expression in LPS-activated RAW264.7 cells, confirmed by RT- and real-time PCR. Transcriptional activation was evaluated by luciferase reporter gene assay. Target protein validation was assessed by Western blot analysis and cellular thermal shift assays (CETSA) with LPS-treated RAW264.7 and gene-transfected HEK293 cells. Using both a HCl/EtOH-induced gastritis model and an LPS-induced lung injury model, inflammatory states were checked by scoring or evaluating gastric lesions, lung edema, and lung histology. Phytochemical fingerprinting of Gc-ME was observed by using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Nitric oxide production induced by LPS and Pam3CSK4 in RAW264.7 cells was revealed to be reduced by Gc-ME. The LPS-induced upregulation of iNOS, COX-2, IL-6, and IL-1β was also suppressed by Gc-ME treatment. Gc-ME downregulated the promotor activities of AP-1 and NF-κB triggered by MyD88- and TRIF induction. Upstream signaling proteins for NF-κB activation, namely, p-p50, p-p65, p-IκBα, and p-Src were all downregulated by Ch-EE. Moreover, Src was revealed to be directly targeted by Gc-ME. This extract, orally treated strongly, attenuated the inflammatory symptoms in HCl/EtOH-treated stomachs and LPS-treated lungs. Therefore, these results strongly imply that Guettarda crispiflora can be developed as a promising anti-inflammatory remedy with Src-suppressive properties.

Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, Anti-Menopausal, and Anti-Cancer Effects of Lignans and Their Metabolites

Since chronic inflammation can be seen in severe, long-lasting diseases such as cancer, there is a high demand for effective methods to modulate inflammatory responses. Among many therapeutic candidates, lignans, absorbed from various plant sources, represent a type of phytoestrogen classified into secoisolariciresionol (Seco), pinoresinol (Pino), matairesinol (Mat), medioresinol (Med), sesamin (Ses), syringaresinol (Syr), and lariciresinol (Lari). Lignans consumed by humans can be further modified into END or ENL by the activities of gut microbiota. Lignans are known to exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, together with activity in estrogen receptor-dependent pathways. Lignans may have therapeutic potential for postmenopausal symptoms, including cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and psychological disorders. Moreover, the antitumor efficacy of lignans has been demonstrated in various cancer cell lines, including hormone-dependent breast cancer and prostate cancer, as well as colorectal cancer. Interestingly, the molecular mechanisms of lignans in these diseases involve the inhibition of inflammatory signals, including the nuclear factor (NF)-κB pathway. Therefore, we summarize the recent in vitro and in vivo studies evaluating the biological effects of various lignans, focusing on their values as effective anti-inflammatory agents.

The biological actions of prostanoids in adipose tissue in physiological and pathophysiological conditions

Adipose tissue has been established as an endocrine organ that plays an important role in maintaining metabolic homeostasis. Adipose tissue releases several bioactive molecules called adipokines. Inflammation, dysregulation of adipokine synthesis, and secretion are observed in obesity and related diseases and cause adipose tissue dysfunction. Prostanoids, belonging to the eicosanoid family of lipid mediators, can be synthesized in adipose tissue and play a critical role in adipose tissue biology. In this review, we summarized the current knowledge regarding the interaction of prostanoids with adipokines, the expression of prostanoid receptors, and prostanoid synthase enzymes in adipose tissues in health and disease. Furthermore, the involvement of prostanoids in the physiological function or dysfunction of adipose tissue including inflammation, lipolysis, adipogenesis, thermogenesis, browning of adipocytes, and vascular tone regulation was also discussed by examining studies using pharmacological approaches or genetically modified animals for prostanoid receptors/synthase enzymes. Overall, the present review provides a perspective on the evidence from literature regarding the biological effects of prostanoids in adipose tissue. Among prostanoids, prostaglandin E2 (PGE₂) is prominent in regards to its substantial role in both adipose tissue physiology and pathophysiology. Targeting prostanoids may serve as a potential therapeutic strategy for preventing or treating obesity and related diseases.

The relationship between tobacco and breast cancer incidence: A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies

Background

The effect of tobacco on breast cancer (BC) is controversial. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between tobacco and BC.

Methods

A search was conducted in PubMed, EBSCO, Web of Science and Cochrane Library databases before February 2022. The adjusted odd ratio (OR) and corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) were used to examine the relationship between active or passive smoking and BC risk.

Results

A total of 77 articles composed of 2,326,987 participants were included for this meta-analysis. Active (OR=1.15, 95% CI=1.11-1.20, p<0.001) and passive (OR=1.17, 95% CI=1.09-1.24, p<0.001) smoking increased the risk of BC in the female population, especially premenopausal BC (active smoking: OR=1.24, p<0.001; passive smoking: OR=1.29, p<0.001), but had no effect on postmenopausal BC (active smoking: OR=1.03, p=0.314; passive smoking: OR=1.13, p=0.218). Active smoking increased the risk of estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) BC risk (OR=1.13, p<0.001), but had no effect on estrogen receptor-negative (ER-) BC (OR=1.08, p=0.155). The risk of BC was positively associated with the duration and intensity of smoking, negatively associated with the duration of smoking cessation. Active smoking increased the risk of BC in the multiparous population (OR=1.13, p<0.001), but had no effect on the nulliparous population (OR=1.05, p=0.432), and smoking before the first birth (OR=1.22, 95% CI=1.17-1.27) had a greater impact on the risk of BC than smoking after the first birth (OR=1.08, 95% CI=1.04-1.12).

Conclusion

Smoking (active and passive) increased the risk of BC in women. The effect of smoking on BC was influenced by smoking-related factors (duration, intensity, years of quitting), population-related factors (fertility status), and BC subtypes.

Systematic Review Registration

identifier CRD42022322699.

Progesterone as an Anti-Inflammatory Drug and Immunomodulator: New Aspects in Hormonal Regulation of the Inflammation

The specific regulation of inflammatory processes by steroid hormones has been actively studied in recent years, especially by progesterone (P₄) and progestins. The mechanisms of the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory P₄ action are not fully clear. The anti-inflammatory effects of P₄ can be defined as nonspecific, associated with the inhibition of NF-κB and COX, as well as the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, or as specific, associated with the regulation of T-cell activation, the regulation of the production of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, and the phenomenon of immune tolerance. The specific anti-inflammatory effects of P₄ and its derivatives (progestins) can also include the inhibition of proliferative signaling pathways and the antagonistic action against estrogen receptor beta-mediated signaling as a proinflammatory and mitogenic factor. The anti-inflammatory action of P₄ is accomplished through the participation of progesterone receptor (PR) chaperones HSP90, as well as immunophilins FKBP51 and FKBP52, which are the validated targets of clinically approved immunosuppressive drugs. The immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects of HSP90 inhibitors, tacrolimus and cyclosporine, are manifested, among other factors, due to their participation in the formation of an active ligand–receptor complex of P₄ and their interaction with its constituent immunophilins. Pharmacological agents such as HSP90 inhibitors can restore the lost anti-inflammatory effect of glucocorticoids and P₄ in chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. By regulating the activity of FKBP51 and FKBP52, it is possible to increase or decrease hormonal signaling, as well as restore it during the development of hormone resistance. The combined action of immunophilin suppressors with steroid hormones may be a promising strategy in the treatment of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, including endometriosis, stress-related disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, and miscarriages. Presumably, the hormone receptor- and immunophilin-targeted drugs may act synergistically, allowing for a lower dose of each.

COX-2 expression in mammary invasive micropapillary carcinoma is associated with prognostic factors and acts as a potential therapeutic target in comparative oncology

Pure human and canine mammary invasive micropapillary carcinoma is a rare malignant epithelial tumor accounting for 0.9 to 2% of all invasive mammary carcinomas and present a high rate of lymphatic invasion and metastasis, with unfavorable prognosis. Surgery and chemotherapy are standard treatments for almost all mammary cancer in both species, as well as hormonal and target therapies available for human patients. However, depending on the patient's clinical staging, satisfactory therapeutic results for invasive micropapillary carcinoma are a challenge due to its high capacity of invasion and metastasis. Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) isoform is an important enzyme stimulated by cytokines, growth factors and oncogenes activation to synthetizes prostaglandins in inflammatory process. COX-2 overexpression is associated with angiogenesis and invasion and contributes to cancer development, disease progression, tumor recurrence and regional lymph node metastasis in human and canine mammary carcinomas. This enzyme can be targeted by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and its inhibition can reduce tumor growth and metastasis in several cancer types. Given the similarity between both species, the present study aims to elucidate the involvement of COX-2 mRNA and protein expression in canine (cIMPC) and human (hIMPC) pure invasive mammary micropapillary carcinoma, with clinicopathological and survival data. Twenty-nine cases of cIMPC and 17 cases of hIMPC were analyzed regarding histologic type, grade, age, tumor size, lymph node condition, extracapsular extension, inflammatory infiltrate and immunophenotype. When available, information on adjuvant treatment, recurrence, metastasis and overall survival were collected. The present study demonstrated COX-2 protein expression in 65.5% of cIMPC and 92.3% of hIMPC, and an association with more advanced histological grades in bitches and higher Ki67 in women. COX-2 mRNA expression was significantly higher in cIMPC than in hIMPC, and its expression was not associated with COX-2 protein expression in both species. COX-2 mRNA expression was associated with negative-ER hIMPC as well as higher Ki67. cIMPC demonstrated proportional early development, more regional metastasis, and a prevalence of negative estrogen receptor, than hIMPC. This is the first time COX-2 expression is associated with negative prognostic factors in both cIMPC and hIMPC, besides the overexpression of COX-2 protein in such unfavorable histological type, which suggests that COX-2 can act as a potential target in IMPC.

Adipose tissue-to-breast cancer crosstalk: Comprehensive insights

The review focuses on mechanistic evidence for the link between obesity and breast cancer. According to the IARC study, there is sufficient evidence that obesity is closely related to a variety of cancers. Among them, breast cancer is particularly disturbed by adipose tissue due to the unique histological structure of the breast. The review introduces the relationship between obesity and breast cancer from two aspects, including factors that promote tumorigenesis or metastasis. We summarize alterations in adipokines and metabolic pathways that contribute to breast cancer development. Breast cancer metastasis is closely related to obesity-induced pro-inflammatory microenvironment, adipose stem cells, and miRNAs. Based on the mechanism by which obesity causes breast cancer, we list possible therapeutic directions, including reducing the risk of breast cancer and inhibiting the progression of breast cancer. We also discussed the risk of autologous breast remodeling and fat transplantation. Finally, the causes of the obesity paradox and the function of enhancing immunity are discussed. Evaluating the balance between obesity-induced inflammation and enhanced immunity warrants further study.

The Role of Thymoquinone in Inflammatory Response in Chronic Diseases

Anti-inflammatory therapies have been shown to be effective in the prevention of various cardiovascular diseases, tumors, and cancer complications. Thymoquinone (TQ), the main active constituent of Nigella sativa, has shown promising therapeutic properties in many in vivo and in vitro models. However, TQ has poor bioavailability and is hydrophobic, prohibiting clinical trials with TQ alone. Studies have explored the combination of TQ with biological nanomaterials to improve its bioavailability. The TQ nanoparticle formulation shows better bioavailability than free TQ, and these formulations are ready for clinical trials to determine their potential as therapeutic agents. In this paper, we review current knowledge about the interaction between TQ and the inflammatory response and summarize the research prospects in Korea and abroad. We discuss the different biological activities of TQ and various combination therapies of TQ and nanomaterials in clinical trials.

Unveil the pain of endometriosis: from the perspective of the nervous system

Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease with pelvic pain and uncharacteristic accompanying symptoms. Endometriosis-associated pain often persists despite treatment of the disease, thus it brings a deleterious impact on their personal lives as well as imposing a substantial economic burden on them. At present, mechanisms underlie endometriosis-associated pain including inflammatory reaction, injury, aberrant blood vessels and the morphological and functional anomaly of the peripheral and central nervous systems. The nerve endings are influenced by the physical and chemical factors surrounding the lesion, via afferent nerve to the posterior root of the spinal nerve, then to the specific cerebral cortex involved in nociception. However, our understanding of the aetiology and mechanism of this complex pain process caused by endometriosis remains incomplete. Identifying the pathogenesis of endometriosis is crucial to disease management, offering proper treatment, and helping patients to seek novel targets for the maintenance and contributors of chronic pain. The main aim of this review is to focus on every possible mechanism of pain related to endometriosis in both peripheral and central nervous systems, and to present related mechanisms of action from the interaction between peripheral lesions and nerves to the changes in transmission of pain, resulting in hyperalgesia and the corresponding alterations in cerebral cortex and brain metabolism.

Accumulation of Arachidonic Acid, Precursor of Pro-Inflammatory Eicosanoids, in Adipose Tissue of Obese Women: Association with Breast Cancer Aggressiveness Indicators

While obesity is linked to cancer risk, no studies have explored the consequences of body mass index (BMI) on fatty acid profiles in breast adipose tissue and on breast tumor aggressiveness indicators. Because of this, 261 breast adipose tissue samples of women with invasive breast carcinoma were analyzed. Fatty acid profile was established by gas chromatography. For normal-weight women, major changes in fatty acid profile occurs after menopause, with the enrichment of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFAs) of both n-6 and n-3 series enrichment, but a stable LC-PUFAs n-6/n-3 ratio across age. BMI impact was analyzed by age subgroups to overcome the age effect. BMI increase is associated with LC-PUFAs n-6 accumulation, including arachidonic acid. Positive correlations between BMI and several LC-PUFAs n-6 were observed, as well as a strong imbalance in the LC-PUFAs n-6/n-3 ratio. Regarding cancer, axillary lymph nodes (p = 0.02) and inflammatory breast cancer (p = 0.08) are more frequently involved in obese women. Increased BMI induces an LC-PUFAs n-6 accumulation, including arachidonic acid, in adipose tissue. This may participate in the development of low-grade inflammation in obese women and breast tumor progression. These results suggest the value of lifestyle and LC-PUFAs n-3 potential, in the context of obesity and breast cancer secondary/tertiary prevention.

The relationship between night shift work and breast cancer incidence: A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between night shift work and breast cancer (BC) incidence. A search was performed in PubMed, EBSCO, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases before June 2021. The exposure factor of this study is night shift work, the primary outcome is the risk of BC. A total of 33 observational studies composed of 4,331,782 participants were included. Night shift work increases the risk of BC in the female population (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.20, 95% confidence interval [Cl] = 1.10–1.31, p < 0.001), especially receptor-positive BC, including estrogen receptor (ER)+ BC (HR = 1.35, p < 0.001), progesterone receptor (PR)+ BC (HR = 1.30, p = 0.003), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)+ BC (HR = 1.42, p < 0.001), but has no effect on HER2− BC (HR = 1.10, p = 0.515) and ER−/PR− BC (HR = 0.98, p = 0.827). The risk of BC was positively correlated with night shift working duration, frequency, and cumulative times. For women who start night work before menopause, night work will increase the incidence of BC (HR = 1.17, p = 0.020), but for women who start night work after menopause, night work does not affect BC (HR = 1.04, p = 0.293). Night work can increase the incidence of BC in the female population. The effect of long working hours, frequency, and the cumulative number of night shifts on BC is influenced by menopausal status.

ANGPTL8 promotes adipogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells: potential role in ectopic lipid deposition

BACKGROUND

Ectopic lipid deposition plays a promoting role in many chronic metabolic diseases. Abnormal adipogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is an important cause of lipid deposition in organs. Studies have shown that serum angiopoietin-like protein 8 (ANGPTL8) levels are increased in patients with many chronic metabolic diseases (such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, and hepatic steatosis), while the role of ANGPTL8 in ectopic lipid accumulation has not been reported.

METHODS

We used the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database to analyze the expression of ANGPTL8 in subcutaneous adipose tissue of obese patients and qPCR to analyze the expression of ANGPTL8 in the liver of high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese mice. To explore the potential roles of ANGPTL8 in the progression of ectopic lipid deposition, ANGPTL8 knockout (KO) mice were constructed, and obesity models were induced by diet and ovariectomy (OVX). We analyzed lipid deposition (TG) in the liver, kidney, and heart tissues of different groups of mice by Oil Red O, Sudan black B staining, and the single reagent GPO-PAP method. We isolated and characterized MSCs to analyze the regulatory effect of ANGPTL8 on Wnt/β-Catenin, a key pathway in adipogenic differentiation. Finally, we used the pathway activator LiCl and a GSK3β inhibitor (i.e., CHIR99021) to analyze the regulatory mechanism of this pathway by ANGPTL8.

RESULTS

ANGPTL8 is highly expressed in the subcutaneous adipose tissue of obese patients and the liver of HFD-induced obese mice. Both normal chow diet (NCD)- and HFD-treated ANGPTL8 KO male mice gained significantly less weight than wild-type (WT) male mice and reduced ectopic lipid deposition in organs. However, the female mice of ANGPTL8 KO, especially the HFD group, did not show differences in body weight or ectopic lipid deposition because HFD could induce estrogen overexpression and then downregulate ANGPTL8 expression, thereby counteracting the reduction in HFD-induced ectopic lipid deposition by ANGPTL8 deletion, and this result was also further proven by the OVX model. Mechanistic studies demonstrated that ANGPTL8 could promote the differentiation of MSCs into adipocytes by inhibiting the Wnt/β-Catenin pathway and upregulating PPARγ and c/EBPα mRNA expression.

CONCLUSIONS

ANGPTL8 promotes the differentiation of MSCs into adipocytes, suggesting that ANGPTL8 may be a new target for the prevention and treatment of ectopic lipid deposition in males.

Natural and Synthetic Estrogens in Chronic Inflammation and Breast Cancer

The oncogenic role of estrogen receptor (ER) signaling in breast cancer has long been established. Interaction of estrogen with estrogen receptor (ER) in the nucleus activates genomic pathways of estrogen signaling. In contrast, estrogen interaction with the cell membrane-bound G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) activates the rapid receptor-mediated signaling transduction cascades. Aberrant estrogen signaling enhances mammary epithelial cell proliferation, survival, and angiogenesis, hence is an important step towards breast cancer initiation and progression. Meanwhile, a growing number of studies also provide evidence for estrogen's pro- or anti-inflammatory roles. As other articles in this issue cover classic ER and GPER signaling mediated by estrogen, this review will discuss the crucial mechanisms by which estrogen signaling influences chronic inflammation and how that is involved in breast cancer. Xenoestrogens acquired from plant diet or exposure to industrial products constantly interact with and alter innate estrogen signaling at various levels. As such, they can modulate chronic inflammation and breast cancer development. Natural xenoestrogens generally have anti-inflammatory properties, which is consistent with their chemoprotective role in breast cancer. In contrast, synthetic xenoestrogens are proinflammatory and carcinogenic compounds that can increase the risk of breast cancer. This article also highlights important xenoestrogens with a particular focus on their role in inflammation and breast cancer. Improved understanding of the complex relationship between estrogens, inflammation, and breast cancer will guide clinical research on agents that could advance breast cancer prevention and therapy.

Thioredoxin reductase-1 levels are associated with NRF2 pathway activation and tumor recurrence in non-small cell lung cancer

Activating mutations in the KEAP1/NRF2 pathway characterize a subset of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) associated with chemoresistance and poor prognosis. We herein evaluated the relationship between 64 oxidative stress-related genes and overall survival data from 35 lung cancer datasets. Thioredoxin reductase-1 (TXNRD1) stood out as the most significant predictor of poor outcome. In a cohort of NSCLC patients, high TXNRD1 protein levels correlated with shorter disease-free survival and distal metastasis-free survival post-surgery, including a subset of individuals treated with platinum-based adjuvant chemotherapy. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that NSCLC tumors harboring genetic alterations in the NRF2 pathway (KEAP1, NFE2L2 and CUL3 mutations, and NFE2L2 amplification) overexpress TXNRD1, while no association with EGFR, KRAS, TP53 and PIK3CA mutations was found. In addition, nuclear accumulation of NRF2 overlapped with upregulated TXNRD1 protein in NSCLC tumors. Functional cell assays and gene dependency analysis revealed that NRF2, but not TXNRD1, has a pivotal role in KEAP1 mutant cells' survival. KEAP1 mutants overexpress TXNRD1 and are less susceptible to the cytotoxic effects of the TXNRD1 inhibitor auranofin when compared to wild-type cell lines. Inhibition of NRF2 with siRNA or ML-385, and glutathione depletion with buthionine-sulfoximine, sensitized KEAP1 mutant A549 cells to auranofin. NRF2 knockdown and GSH depletion also augmented cisplatin cytotoxicity in A549 cells, whereas auranofin had no effect. In summary, these findings suggest that TXNRD1 is not a key determinant of malignant phenotypes in KEAP1 mutant cells, although this protein can be a surrogate marker of NRF2 pathway activation, predicting tumor recurrence and possibly other aggressive phenotypes associated with NRF2 hyperactivation in NSCLC.

Oral administration of E-type prostanoid (EP) 1 receptor antagonist suppresses carcinogenesis and development of prostate cancer via upregulation of apoptosis in an animal model

Prostaglandin E2 plays an important role in carcinogenesis and malignant potential of prostate cancer (PC) cells by binding to its specific receptors, E-type prostanoid (EP) receptors. However, anti-carcinogenic effects of the EP receptor antagonist are unclear. In this study, we used a mouse model of PC. The mice were provided standard feed (control) or feed containing the EP1 receptor antagonist and were sacrificed at 10, 15, 30, and 52 weeks of age. Apoptosis was evaluated by immunohistochemical analysis using a cleaved caspase-3 assay. The incidence of cancer in the experimental group was significantly lower than that in the control group at 15, 30, and 52 weeks of age. The percentage of poorly differentiated PC cells was significantly lower in the experimental group than in the control group at 30 and 52 weeks of age. The percentage of apoptotic cells in the experimental group was significantly higher than that in the control group at 15, 30, and 52 weeks of age. These findings indicate that feeding with the addition of EP1 receptor antagonist delayed PC progression via the upregulation of apoptosis. We suggest that the EP1 receptor antagonist may be a novel chemopreventive agent for PC.

Current Landscape: The Mechanism and Therapeutic Impact of Obesity for Breast Cancer

Obesity is defined as a chronic disease induced by an imbalance of energy homeostasis. Obesity is a widespread health problem with increasing prevalence worldwide. Breast cancer (BC) has already been the most common cancer and one of the leading causes of cancer death in women worldwide. Nowadays, the impact of the rising prevalence of obesity has been recognized as a nonnegligible issue for BC development, outcome, and management. Adipokines, insulin and insulin-like growth factor, sex hormone and the chronic inflammation state play critical roles in the vicious crosstalk between obesity and BC. Furthermore, obesity can affect the efficacy and side effects of multiple therapies such as surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, endocrine therapy, immunotherapy and weight management of BC. In this review, we focus on the current landscape of the mechanisms of obesity in fueling BC and the impact of obesity on diverse therapeutic interventions. An in-depth exploration of the underlying mechanisms linking obesity and BC will improve the efficiency of the existing treatments and even provide novel treatment strategies for BC treatment.

Microenvironmental control of cell fate decisions in mammary gland development and cancer

Cell fate decisions are critical for adequate tissue development, maintenance and regeneration. In the mammary gland, epithelial cell fates are tightly controlled by the microenvironment. Here, we review how cell fate decisions are regulated by components of the microenvironment during mammary gland development and how pathological changes in the microenvironment can alter cell fates, leading to malignancy. Specifically, we describe the current understanding of how mammary cell fate is controlled and directed by three elements: the extracellular matrix, the immune microenvironment, and hormones-and how these elements can converge to create microenvironments that promote a fourth element: DNA damage.