Investigation of the causal relationship between inflammatory bowel disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus: a Mendelian randomization study

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have been associated, according to various epidemiological research. This study uses Mendelian randomization (MR) to investigate the causal link between T2DM and IBD. Methods: To investigate the causal relationship between IBD and T2DM risk using European population data from the genome-wide association study (GWAS) summary datasets, we constructed a two-sample MR study to evaluate the genetically predicted impacts of liability towards IBD outcomes on T2DM risk. As instrumental variables (IVs), we chose 26 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with IBD exposure data. The European T2DM GWAS data was obtained from the IEU OpenGWAS Project database, which contains 298,957 cases as the outcome data. The causal relationship between T2DM and IBD using a reverse MR analysis was also performed. Results: The two-sample MR analysis, with the Bonferroni adjustment for multiple testing, revealed that T2DM risk in Europeans is unaffected by their IBD liability (odds ratio (OR): 0.950-1.066, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.885-1.019, p = 0.152-0.926). The effects of liability to T2DM on IBD were not supported by the reverse MR analysis either (OR: 0.739-1.131, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.651-1.100, p = 0.058-0.832). MR analysis of IBS on T2DM also have no significant causal relationship (OR: 0.003-1.007, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.013-5.791, p = 0.069-0.790). FUMA precisely mapped 22 protein-coding genes utilizing significant SNPs of T2DM acquired from GWAS. Conclusion: The MR study showed that the existing evidence did not support the significant causal effect of IBD on T2DM, nor did it support the causal impact of T2DM on IBD.

The anti-inflammatory effects of exercise on autoimmune diseases: A 20-year systematic review

BACKGROUND

The anti-inflammatory effect of exercise may be an underlying factor in improving several autoimmune diseases. The aim of this systematic review was to examine the evidence on the role of exercise training in mitigating inflammation in adolescents and adults with autoimmune disease.

METHODS

PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases were systematically reviewed for related studies published between January 1, 2003, and August 31, 2023. All randomized and non-randomized controlled trials of exercise interventions with autoimmune disease study participants that evaluated inflammation-related biomarkers were included. The quality of evidence was assessed using the Tool for the assEssment of Study qualiTy and reporting in Exercise scale and Cochrane bias risk tool.

RESULTS

A total of 14,565 records were identified. After screening the titles, abstracts, and full texts, 87 were eligible for the systematic review. These studies were conducted in 25 different countries and included a total of 2779 participants (patients with autoimmune disease, in exercise or control groups). Overall, the evidence suggests that inflammation-related markers such as C-reactive protein, interleukin 6, and tumor necrosis factor α were reduced by regular exercise interventions. Regular exercise interventions combined with multiple exercise modes were associated with greater benefits.

CONCLUSION

Regular exercise training by patients with autoimmune disease exerts an anti-inflammatory influence. This systematic review provides support for the promotion and development of clinical exercise intervention programs for patients with autoimmune disease. Most patients with autoimmune disease can safely adopt moderate exercise training protocols, but changes in inflammation biomarkers will be modest at best. Acute exercise interventions are ineffective or even modestly but transiently pro-inflammatory.

Vitamin E stabilizes iron and mitochondrial metabolism in pulmonary fibrosis

Introduction: Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a fatal chronic lung disease that causes structural damage and decreased lung function and has a poor prognosis. Currently, there is no medicine that can truly cure PF. Vitamin E (VE) is a group of natural antioxidants with anticancer and antimutagenic properties. There have been a few reports about the attenuation of PF by VE in experimental animals, but the molecular mechanisms are not fully understood. Methods: Bleomycin-induced PF (BLM-PF) mouse model, and cultured mouse primary lung fibroblasts and MLE 12 cells were utilized. Pathological examination of lung sections, immunoblotting, immunofluorescent staining, and real-time PCR were conducted in this study. Results: We confirmed that VE significantly delayed the progression of BLM-PF and increased the survival rates of experimental mice with PF. VE suppressed the pathological activation and fibrotic differentiation of lung fibroblasts and epithelial-mesenchymal transition and alleviated the inflammatory response in BLM-induced fibrotic lungs and pulmonary epithelial cells in vitro. Importantly, VE reduced BLM-induced ferritin expression in fibrotic lungs, whereas VE did not exhibit iron chelation properties in fibroblasts or epithelial cells in vitro. Furthermore, VE protected against mitochondrial dysmorphology and normalized mitochondrial protein expression in BLM-PF lungs. Consistently, VE suppressed apoptosis in BLM-PF lungs and pulmonary epithelial cells in vitro. Discussion: Collectively, VE markedly inhibited BLM-induced PF through a complex mechanism, including improving iron metabolism and mitochondrial structure and function, mitigating inflammation, and decreasing the fibrotic functions of fibroblasts and epithelial cells. Therefore, VE presents a highly potential therapeutic against PF due to its multiple protective effects with few side effects.

Association Between Visceral Fat Area and Glycated Hemoglobin in Type 2 Diabetics: A Retrospective Study

Introduction

Obesity is a risk factor for the development of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) as well as its associated metabolic complications. Central obesity, characterized by an increased visceral fat area (VFA), is contributed to the development of T2DM. However, the relationship between VFA and HbA1c is not particularly clear.

Methods

A total of 3173 patients with T2DM participated in the study at the Metabolic Management Center (MMC), with anthropometric and biochemical measurements recorded. To examine the association between HbA1c and VFA, fitting curves were plotted, facilitating a comprehensive observation of their relationship.

Results

HbA1c was inversely associated with VFA (β -1.79, 95% CI -2.34~-1.24, P < 0.001). The fitted curve shows that VFA increased with the increase of HbA1c when it was less than 8.62%. When it was greater than 8.62%, VFA decreased as HbA1c increased. Using linear inflection point analysis, we found that its inflection point interval falls within 8.36%~8.88%.

Conclusion

VFA was positively associated with HbA1c in individuals with T2DM. Furthermore, the relationship between the two variables was an inverted U-shaped association.

Uncovering interactions of mitochondrial proteins BNIP3 and BNIP3L with necroptosis-associated kinase RIPK3: Insights into kinase activation

Mitochondria, an important organelle implicated in programmed cell death, assumes a crucial role in necroptosis. However, the regulatory mechanisms through which mitochondria participates in necroptosis are largely unknown. To address this knowledge gap, our study aimed to identify mitochondrial proteins that engage in interactions with receptor-interacting protein kinase 3 (RIPK3), a significant upstream kinase involved in necroptosis. Among the candidates, BNIP3 and BNIP3L exhibited significant higher binding scores to RIPK3 compared to others. Computational modeling revealed specific interactions, as RIPK3 specifically binds to a conserved α-helix region within BNIP3 and BNIP3L. Validation experiments confirmed the significance of these helical peptides for RIPK3 binding. Conserved peptides were also identified in BNIP3 and BNIP3L proteins from various animal species, including humans. The binding between human RIPK3 and BNIP3/BNIP3L peptides demonstrated perfect shape and charge complementation, with highly conserved interface residues. Moreover, peptide binding stabilized an active conformation of RIPK3, potentially enhancing its kinase activity. These findings uncover the interactions between RIPK3 and BNIP3/BNIP3L, providing insights into RIPK3 regulation and its role in necroptosis.

Fasting Plasma Glucose and Glycated Hemoglobin Levels as Risk Factors for the Development of Hypertension: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Introduction

Hypertension (HTN) is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Identifying new risk factors for hypertension is crucial. This study aims to determine the predictive value of fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in the development of hypertension.

Methods

In this study, we examined 16,026 individuals without diabetes and other cardiovascular risk factors who were underwent annual screening at the People's Hospital of Yuxi, Yunnan, China from 2013 to 2016. The participants were divided into two groups: normoglycemic and prediabetic. Normoglycemia was defined as having an HbA1c level of less than 5.7% and an FPG level of less than 5.6 mmol/ L. Prediabetes was defined according to the ADA criteria, which includes having an HbA1c level between 5.7% and 6.5%, or an impaired fasting glucose level between 5.6 mmol/L and 7.0 mmol/L. The participants were further divided into four subgroups based on their FPG and HbA1c levels: normoglycemia, impaired HbA1c only, FPG only, and both parameters impaired.

Results

The cohort study was conducted on 16,026 participants from Yunnan, China, consisting of 60.6% males and 39.4% females, with a mean age of 44.6 ± 12.5 years. The study revealed that prediabetes was independently associated with an increased risk for HTN (OR 1.53, 95% CI 1.41~1.67, P < 0.001). The analysis of different subgroups of HbA1c and FPG showed that FPG was a better predictor of HTN than HbA1c, regardless of the group.

Conclusion

FPG and HbA1c were significantly associated with the future development of HTN in individuals with prediabetes.

Circadian clock—A promising scientific target in oral science

The oral and maxillofacial organs play vital roles in chewing, maintaining facial beauty, and speaking. Almost all physiological processes display circadian rhythms that are driven by the circadian clock, allowing organisms to adapt to the changing environment. In recent years, increasing evidence has shown that the circadian clock system participates in oral and maxillofacial physiological and pathological processes, such as jaw and tooth development, salivary gland function, craniofacial malformations, oral carcinoma and other diseases. However, the roles of the circadian clock in oral science have not yet been comprehensively reviewed. Therefore, This paper provides a systematic and integrated perspective on the function of the circadian clock in the fields of oral science, reviews recent advances in terms of the circadian clock in oral and maxillofacial development and disease, dialectically analyzes the importance of the circadian clock system and circadian rhythm to the activities of oral and maxillofacial tissues, and focuses on analyzing the mechanism of the circadian clock in the maintenance of oral health, affecting the common diseases of the oral and maxillofacial region and the process of oral-related systemic diseases, sums up the chronotherapy and preventive measures for oral-related diseases based on changes in tissue activity circadian rhythms, meanwhile, comes up with a new viewpoint to promote oral health and human health.

Inflammatory Microenvironment Accelerates Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cell Aging

MSC senescence is considered a contributing factor in aging-related diseases. We investigated the influence of the inflammatory microenvironment on bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) under aging conditions and the underlying mechanism to provide new ideas for stem cell therapy for age-related osteoporosis. The BMSCs were cultured until passage 3 (P3) (young group) and passage 10 (P10) (aging group) in vitro. The supernatant was collected as the conditioned medium (CM). The young BMSCs were cultured in the CM of P3 or P10 cells. The effects of CM from different groups on the aging and stemness of the young BMSCs were examined. A Quantibody^® mouse inflammation array on serum extracts from young (aged 8 weeks) and old (aged 78 weeks) mice was performed, and differentially expressed factors were screened out. We discovered that the CM from senescent MSCs changed the physiology of young BMSCs. Systemic inflammatory microenvironments changed with age in the mice. In particular, the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-6 increased, and the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 decreased. The underlying mechanism was investigated by GO and KEGG analyses, and there was a change in the JAK-STAT signaling pathway, which is closely related to IL-6 and IL-10. Collectively, our results demonstrated that the age-related inflammatory microenvironment has a significant effect on the biological functions of BMSCs. Targeted reversal of this inflammatory environment may provide a new strategy for stem cell therapy to treat aging-related skeletal diseases.

Circadian rhythms affect bone reconstruction by regulating bone energy metabolism

Metabolism is one of the most complex cellular biochemical reactions, providing energy and substances for basic activities such as cell growth and proliferation. Early studies have shown that glucose is an important nutrient in osteoblasts. In addition, amino acid metabolism and fat metabolism also play important roles in bone reconstruction. Mammalian circadian clocks regulate the circadian cycles of various physiological functions. In vertebrates, circadian rhythms are mediated by a set of central clock genes: muscle and brain ARNT like-1 (Bmal1), muscle and brain ARNT like-2 (Bmal2), circadian rhythmic motion output cycle stagnates (Clock), cryptochrome 1 (Cry1), cryptochrome2 (Cry2), period 1 (Per1), period 2 (Per2), period 3 (Per3) and neuronal PAS domain protein 2 (Npas2). Negative feedback loops, controlled at both the transcriptional and posttranslational levels, adjust these clock genes in a diurnal manner. According to the results of studies on circadian transcriptomic studies in several tissues, most rhythmic genes are expressed in a tissue-specific manner and are affected by tissue-specific circadian rhythms. The circadian rhythm regulates several activities, including energy metabolism, feeding time, sleeping, and endocrine and immune functions. It has been reported that the circadian rhythms of mammals are closely related to bone metabolism. In this review, we discuss the regulation of the circadian rhythm/circadian clock gene in osteoblasts/osteoclasts and the energy metabolism of bone, and the relationship between circadian rhythm, bone remodeling, and energy metabolism. We also discuss the therapeutic potential of regulating circadian rhythms or changing energy metabolism on bone development/bone regeneration.

Copper-catalyzed one-pot synthesis of 2-(2,2,2-trifluoroethyl)-substituted benzofused heterocycles

A method for copper-catalyzed synthesis of 2-trifluoroethyl-substituted benzofurans and indoles from the reaction of salicylaldehyde/2-aminobenzaldehyde p-tosylhydrazones with 2-bromo-3,3,3-trifluoropropene has been developed.

Chemerin/CMKLR1 Axis Promotes Inflammation and Pyroptosis by Activating NLRP3 Inflammasome in Diabetic Cardiomyopathy Rat

Chemerin and its receptor CMKLR1 (a G-protein-coupled receptor) are inducers of inflammation, and play an important role in diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM). In this study, we investigated the role of the chemerin/CMKLR1 axis in mediating inflammation and cell death in DCM. Sprague–Dawley rats, treated with a high-fat diet and low-dose of streptozotocin, were used as a DCM model. CMKLR1 expression was knocked down by siRNA (CMKLR1-siRNA) to evaluate the role of CMKLR1 in DCM. Chemerin-treated H9c2 cells were used to investigate the factors acting downstream of the chemerin/CMKLR1 axis. LDH release and EthD-III staining were used to measure the ratio of cell death in vitro. CMKLR1-siRNA and siRNA against nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptors 3 (NLRP3-siRNA) were used to explore the mechanism underlying chemerin-induced inflammation and cell death. The results showed that the expression of chemerin, CMKLR1, NLRP3, pro-caspase-1, activated caspase-1, and mature IL-1β was increased in the DCM model rat. Myocardium of DCM model rats exhibited fibrosis, hypertrophy, a disorganized ultrastructure, and impaired function. Pyroptosis was observed in vivo and in vitro. Silencing of CMKLR1 in vivo attenuated the expression of NLRP3 and activated caspase-1 and IL-1β. CMKLR1-siRNA treatment attenuated cardiac inflammation, fibrosis, hypertrophy, and pyroptosis, and improved cardiac function in vivo. Silencing of either CMKLR1 or NLRP3 suppressed the levels of activated caspase-1, IL-1β, and pyroptosis; however, silencing of both CMKLR1 and NLRP3 further decreased the levels of mature IL-1β and pyroptosis. Overall, the results showed that the chemerin/CMKLR1 axis contributed to the development of DCM and that the NLRP3 inflammasome mediated the chemerin/CMLR1-induced inflammation and pyroptosis. These data indicate that silencing of the CMKLR1 gene might exert a protective effect against DCM.

Exercise induces tissue hypoxia and HIF-1α redistribution in the small intestine

BACKGROUND

Exercise induces blood flow redistribution among tissues, leading to splanchnic hypoperfusion. Intestinal epithelial cells are positioned between the anaerobic lumen and the highly metabolic lamina propria with an oxygen gradient. Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α is pivotal in the transcriptional response to the oxygen flux.

METHODS

In this study, the pimonidazole hydrochloride staining was applied to observe the tissue hypoxia in different organs, which might be affected by the blood flow redistribution. The HIF-1α luciferase reporter ROSA26 oxygen-dependent degradation domain (ODD)-Luc/⁺ mouse model (ODD domain-Luc; female, n = 3-6/group) was used to detect the HIF-1α expression in the intestine. We used 3 swimming models: moderate exercise for 30 min, heavy-intensity exercise bearing 5% bodyweight for 1.5 h, and long-time exercise for 3 h.

RESULTS

We found that 1 session of swimming at different intensities could induce tissue hypoxia redistribution in the small intestine, colon, liver and kidney, but not in the spleen, heart, and skeletal muscle. Our data showed that exercise exacerbated the extent of physiological hypoxia in the small intestine. Next, using ODD-Luc mice, we found that moderate exercise increased the in vivo HIF-1α level in the small intestine. The post-exercise HIF-1α level was gradually decreased in a time-dependent manner. Interestingly, the redistribution of tissue hypoxia and the increase of HIF-1α expression were not related to the exercise intensity and duration.

CONCLUSION

This study provided evidence that the small intestine is the primary target organ for exercise-induced tissue hypoxia and HIF-1α redistribution, suggesting that HIF-1α may be a potential target for the regulation of gastrointestinal functions after exercise.

Improved Stability of Metal Nanowires via Electron Beam Irradiation Induced Surface Passivation

Suppressing the corrosion of nanoscaled metal materials is a critical issue for various devices. Herein, we demonstrate the electron beam irradiation can be a simple and efficient method to realize silver/copper nanowires protection by transforming the original organic capping agents into dense carbonaceous shells. Single nanowire tests prove the significant stability improvement from 4 days to 20 days for silver nanowire and from 20 h to at least 1 week for copper nanowire. The comprehensive advantages such as solution/pollution-free and continuous process with high precision offer this method substantial potential applications in bottom-up assembled electronic and optoelectronic devices.

Identification of Potential Gene Interactions in Heart Failure Caused by Idiopathic Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Background

Many heart failure (HF) cases are caused by idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (iDCM). This study explored the mechanisms of the development and progression of HF caused by iDCM.

Material/Methods

The gene expression profiles of 102 samples were downloaded from the GEO database (GSE5406). Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified through GO analysis and a KEGG pathway analysis, respectively. A protein–protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed and analyzed to screen potential regulatory proteins. In addition, MCODE and a cytoHubba plugin were used to identify the module and hub genes of DEGs. Finally, transcription factors (TFs) were predicted using PASTAA. We did not perform whole-exome sequencing (WES) for detecting mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA).

Results

A total of 197 DEGs were screened, and 3 modules, and 4 upregulated and 11 downregulated hub genes were screened. The GO analysis focused on the terms and 12 KEGG pathways were enriched. The FOS, TIMP1, and SERPINE1 hub genes, as well as some key TFs, demonstrated important roles in the progression of HF caused by iDCM. CEBPD, CEBOB, CDC37L1, and SRGN may be new targets for HF in iDCM patients.

Conclusions

The identified DEGs and their enriched pathways provide references for exploring the mechanisms of the development and progression of HF patients with iDCM. Moreover, modules, hub genes, and TFs may be useful in the treatment and diagnosis of HF patients with iDCM. However, mtDNA was not investigated.

[Experimental study on DEHP affect the neurodevelopment through interfering with placental thyroid hormones transport]

Objective: The present study was represented by di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), to explore the role of thyroid hormones (THs) disruption in the connection of placenta and neurodevelopmental toxicity. Methods: During fetal mice neural tube closed (pregnancy 9.5 days, E9.5d) to begin synthesis of THs (E15.5 d), all pregnant mice were administered with different concentration of DEHP (0、10、50、200 mg/kg) by gavage once a day(10 mice per group). All pregnant mice were conducted with BrdU administration in E14d by subcutaneous injection. Seven pregnant mice from each group were scarified after anesthesia in E15.5 d, serum and amniotic fluid were collected to determinate the levels of THs(T(3), T(4), FT(3) and FT(4)) by the automatic biochemical analyzer, detecting fetal mice placental protein expression of monocarboxylate transporter 8 (MCT8), organic anion transporting polypeptide 1C1 (OATP1C1) and deiodinaseⅡ&Ⅲ (DIO(2), DIO(3)) by Western blot. Each group of the remaining three pregnant mices were killed after anesthesia in E18d, take the male fetal brain, BrdU immunohistochemistry was used to detect the proliferation and migration of fetal brain cortical neurons. Results: There was no abnormalities in diet, water intake, body weight and general activity of pregnant mice in each treatment group, and there were no difference in the general physiolo. Results There was no abnormalities in diet, water intake, body weight and general activity of pregnant mice in each treatment group, and there were no difference in the general physiological development status of body weight, brain weight, brain body ratio between the mice of each group. There was no statistically significant differences in serum T(3), T(4), FT(3), FT(4) and amniotic fluid FT(4) in pregnant mice of each group (P>0.05), Compared with the control group, the FT(3) levels in the amniotic fluid of the DEHP 50 and 200 mg/kg groups were significantly decreased(P<0.05). Compared with the control group, the placental MCT8 and DIO(2) protein levels of male fetal mice in the DEHP 50 and 200 mg/kg group decreased, and the level of OATP1C1 protein in 200 mg/kg group decreased(P<0.05), and there was no statistically significant difference in DIO(3) protein levels among all groups (P>0.05). Compared with the control group, the number of BrdU positive cells in the cerebral cortex of male mice in DEHP 200 mg/kg group decreased, 56.5% was distributed in VZ-SVZ layer, and the percentage of BrdU positive cells in the IZ layer of 50 mg/kg group increased (P<0.05). Conclusion: DEHP 50, 200 mg/kg may affect the proliferation and migration of neural cells in the developing brain, which may be related to its interference with thyroid hormone by placental transport.

Unraveling the solvent induced welding of silver nanowires for high performance flexible transparent electrodes

A solution processed metal nanowire network is a promising flexible transparent electrode to replace brittle metal oxides for printable optoelectronics applications, but suffers from the issue of pseudo contact between nanowires. Herein, using volatile solvent mists as a powerful "zipper", we demonstrate a simple and rapid method to effectively weld silver nanowires, which dramatically improves the conductivity and robustness of the silver nanowire network based flexible transparent electrodes. We reveal that for a stacked network structure, the unique wedge-shaped nanogaps between the long nanowires and substrate provide a strong capillary force during solvent evaporation, which is much larger than that between zero-dimensional nanoparticles and gives a decisive contribution for nanowire junction welding, and this nanowire-substrate interplay force is positively related to the wettability of the substrate. At the same time, the dissolution-reprecipitation of the capping agent on the silver nanowire surface as the natural adhesive can fix the network on the substrate tightly, which enhances the robustness of the network. Our approach solves two key issues in solution-processed transparent electrodes in one simple step, and is compatible with various mild solution-processed optoelectronic devices, especially those containing heat-sensitive or chemical-sensitive materials. Moreover, a new type of invisible infrared encryption display is demonstrated based on this approach.

Connexin 43 reduces susceptibility to sympathetic atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia reported in clinical practice. Connexin 43 (Cx43) is a member of the connexin protein family, which serves important roles in signal transduction in vivo. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of Cx43 in the induction and maintenance of atrial fibrillation by using an animal model of sympathomimetic atrial fibrillation. Cx43 was successfully knocked down in the myocardium with gene‑specific small interfering (si)RNA via lentiviral infection. A total of 25 dogs were randomly and evenly divided into five groups: Normal (N), rapid atrial pacing (RAP), isoproterenol (ISO) + RAP, RAP + Cx43 siRNA and ISO + RAP + Cx43 siRNA. The mRNA and protein levels, as well as the distribution of Cx43 on the cell membrane, were gradually decreased in each group compared with the N group following treatment (P<0.05). The induction rate of the atrial effective refractory period was not significantly affected in the RAP and RAP + Cx43 siRNA groups, whereas it was significantly reduced in the ISO + RAP and ISO + RAP + Cx43 siRNA groups compared with the N group (P<0.05). The induction rate of AF was gradually increased in the RAP + Cx43 siRNA, ISO + RAP and ISO + RAP + Cx43 siRNA groups compared with the N group (P<0.05). The expression of nerve growth factor (NGF) and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) was gradually increased in the ISO + RAP and ISO + RAP + Cx43 siRNA groups compared with their respective controls (RAP and RAP + Cx43 siRNA groups, respectively). However, no significant difference in the levels of NGF and TH was observed between the RAP, RAP + Cx43 siRNA, ISO + RAP and ISO + RAP + Cx43 siRNA groups. The mitochondrial morphology in each group was notably altered compared with the N group. The mitochondrial reactive oxygen species production and apoptotic index were gradually increased in each group compared with the N group (P<0.05). The results of the present study suggest that Cx43 reduces susceptibility to AF. Downregulation of Cx43 mediates the induction and maintenance of sympathetic AF.

Hepatic PHD2/HIF-1α axis is involved in postexercise systemic energy homeostasis

Exercise plays an important role in the prevention and treatment of chronic liver disease and associated metabolic disorders. A single bout of exercise induces tissue blood flow redistribution, which decreases splanchnic circulation and leads to physiologic hypoxia in the gastrointestinal system and liver. The transcription factor, hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), and its regulator, prolylhydroxylase 2 (PHD2), play pivotal roles in the response to oxygen flux by regulating downstream gene expression levels in the liver. We hypothesized that exercise increases the HIF-1α levels in the liver, and that the hepatic PHD2/HIF-1α axis is involved in postexercise restoration of systemic energy homeostasis. Through constant O₂ consumption, CO₂ production, food and water intake, and physical activity detection with metabolic chambers, we observed that one 30-min session of swimming exercise enhances systemic energy metabolism in mice. By using the noninvasive bioluminescence imaging ROSA26 oxygen-dependent domain Luc mouse model, we reveal that exercise increases in vivo HIFα levels in the liver. Intraperitoneal injections of the PHD inhibitor, dimethyloxalylglycine, mimicked exercise-induced HIFα increase, whereas the HIF-1α inhibitor, PX-478, blocked this effect. We next constructed liver-specific knockout (LKO) mouse models with albumin- Cre-mediated, hepatocyte-specific Hif1a and Phd2 deletion. Compared with their controls, Hif1a-LKO and Phd2-LKO mice exhibited distinct patterns of hepatic metabolism-related gene expression profiles. Moreover, Hif1a-LKO mice failed to restore systemic energy homeostasis after exercise. In conclusion, the current study demonstrates that a single bout of exercise disrupts systemic energy homeostasis, increasing the HIF-1α levels in the liver. These findings also provide evidence that the hepatic PHD2/HIF-1α axis is involved in postexercise systemic metabolic homeostasis.-Luo, B., Xiang, D., Wu, D., Liu, C., Fang, Y., Chen, P., Hu, Y.-P. Hepatic PHD2/HIF-1α axis is involved in postexercise systemic energy homeostasis.

Elemental tellurium mediated synthesis of 2-(trifluoromethyl)oxazoles using trifluoroacetic anhydride as reagent

An elemental tellurium mediated synthesis of 2-(trifluoromethyl)oxazoles from the reaction of acetophenone oxime acetates with trifluoroacetic anhydride is described.

Dual-Mode Electronic Skin with Integrated Tactile Sensing and Visualized Injury Warning

Mimicking the pressure-sensing behavior of biological skins using electronic devices has profound implications for prosthetics and medicine. The developed electronic skins based on single response mode for pressure sensing suffer from a rapid decrease in sensitivity with the increase of pressure. Their highly sensitive range covers a narrow part of tolerable pressure range of the human skin and has a weak response to the injurious high pressures. Herein, inspired by a bioluminescent jellyfish, we develop an electronic skin with dual-mode response characteristics, which is able to quantify and map the static and dynamic pressures by combining electrical and optical responses. The electronic skin shows notable changes in capacitance in the low-pressure regime and can emit bright luminescence in the high-pressure regime, which, respectively, imitates the functions of the mechanoreceptors and nociceptors in the biological skin, enabling it to sense gentle tactile and injurious pressure with sensitivities up to 0.66 and 0.044 kPa^-1, respectively. The complementary highly sensitive sensing ranges of the electronic skin realize a reliable perception to different levels of pressure, and its mechanically robust and stretchable properties may find a wide range of applications in intelligent robots.

NLRP3 Inflammasome as a Molecular Marker in Diabetic Cardiomyopathy

Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM), a common consequence of longstanding diabetes mellitus, is initiated by death of cardiomyocyte. Hyperglycemia-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) overproduction is a major contributor of the chronic low-grade inflammation that characterizes as the DCM. ROS may promote the activation of nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain like receptor (NLR) pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, a novel regulator of inflammation and cell death, by nuclear factor-kB (NF-κB) and thioredoxin interacting/inhibiting protein (TXNIP). NLRP3 inflammasome regulates the death of cardiomyocyte and activation of fibroblast in DCM, which is involved in the structural and functional disorder of DCM. However, comprehensive understanding of molecular mechanisms linking NLRP3 inflammasome and disorder of cardiomyocyte and fibroblast in DCM is lacking. Here, we review the molecular mechanism(s) of NLRP3 inflammasome activation in response to hyperglycemia in DCM.

[Effects of developmental exposure to DEHP on learning and memory of mice]

Objective: To investigate the effects of developmental exposure to DEHP on learning and memory of mice. Methods: Male littermates of ICR mice randomly assigned to five experimental groups (n=14 for each condition) on PND4 to receive distilled water, vehicle and 10, 50 and 200 mg/ (kg·d) DEHP from PND5 to PND38 by gavage, weighing and recording body weight of mice. Open field task were conducted on PND 26 and Morris water maze task were begun from PND30 to PND 37 to evaluate spontaneous exploration activity and emotion, spatial learning and memory performance of pubertal mice, respectively. On PND39, all animals were killed and hippocampi were isolated on ice, then total proteins of hippocampus were extracted, followed by determining the expression of PSD95 and synapsin I by western blotting. Results: 200 mg/ (kg·d) DEHP significantly reduced the growth of body weight of mice and the time staying in the central area in open field, prolonged the time searching the hidden platform in Morris water maze (P<0.05) . 50 mg/ (kg·d) DEHP didn't change the growth of body weight and the emotion (P>0.05) , but reduced the percent of time and distance in the target quadrant during the probe trial of mice in Morris water maze (P<0.05) . The results of western blotting showed that DEHP significantly reduced the expression of PSD95 in hippocampus of mice with all dose groups (P<0.01) , but only 200 mg/ (kg·d) DEHP reduced the expression of synapsin I (P<0.05) . Conclusion: Developmental exposure to DEHP can damage the development of synapse in hippocampus, adversely impacting spatial memory performance of mice at a dose that are insufficient to significantly influence the general development and result in anxiety.

Time-dependent gene expression analysis after mouse skeletal muscle contusion

BACKGROUND

Though the mechanisms of skeletal muscle regeneration are deeply understood, those involved in muscle contusion, one of the most common muscle injuries in sports medicine clinics, are not. The objective of this study is to explore the mechanisms involved in muscle regeneration after contusion injury.

METHODS

In this study, a total of 72 mice were used. Eight of them were randomly chosen for the control group, while the rest were subjected to muscle contusion. Subsequently, their gastrocnemius muscles were harvested at different time points. The changes in muscle morphology were assessed by hematoxylin and eosin (HE) stain. In addition, the gene expression was analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

The data showed that the expression of many genes, i.e., specific markers of immune cells and satellite cells, regulatory factors for muscle regeneration, cytokines, and chemokines, increased in the early stages of recovery, especially in the first 3 days. Furthermore, there were strict rules in the expression of these genes. However, almost all the genes returned to normal at 14 days post-injury.

CONCLUSION

The sequence of immune cells invaded after muscle contusion was neutrophils, M1 macrophages and M2 macrophages. Some CC (CCL2, CCL3, and CCL4) and CXC (CXCL10) chemokines may be involved in the chemotaxis of these immune cells. HGF may be the primary factor to activate the satellite cells after muscle contusion. Moreover, 2 weeks are needed to recover when acute contusion happens as used in this study.

Synthesis of trifluoromethylthiolated pyridinones through the copper-mediated trifluoromethylthiolation of iodopyridinones

A simple method for the synthesis of trifluoromethylthiolated pyridinones through the copper-mediated trifluoromethylthiolation of iodopyridinones was developed.

Inhibition of prolyl hydroxylase 3 ameliorates cardiac dysfunction in diabetic cardiomyopathy

Prolyl hydroxylase 3 (PHD3) is a member of the prolyl hydroxylases (PHDs) family and is induced by hypoxia. It plays a critical role in regulating the abundance of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF). Its expression is increased in diabetic rat hearts; however, its role remains unclear. We investigated the potential role and mechanism of action of PHD3 in the setting of diabetes-induced myocardial dysfunction in rats. In vivo, type 2 diabetic rat model was induced via a high-fat diet and intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin. PHD3 expression was knocked down using lentivirus-mediated short-hairpin RNA (shRNA). In vitro, primary neonatal cardiomyocytes and H9c2 cardiomyoblasts were cultured in 33.3 mM glucose (high glucose, HG) and 5.5 mM glucose (normal glucose, NG), the latter of which was used as a control. PHD3-siRNA was used to inhibit the expression of PHD3 and to investigate the role of PHD3 in HG-induced apoptosis in H9c2 cardiomyoblasts. Rats with diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) exhibited severe left ventricular dysfunction as well as myocardial apoptosis and fibrosis. PHD3 expression was increased in the myocardial tissues of diabetic rats, and inhibition of PHD3 ameliorated the disease. Additionally, the inhibition of PHD3 significantly decreased HG-induced apoptosis and MAPK activation in H9c2 cardiomyoblasts. Our results suggest that PHD3 inhibition ameliorates myocardial dysfunction in the setting of diabetic cardiomyopathy.

Influence of pistachios on performance and exercise-induced inflammation, oxidative stress, immune dysfunction, and metabolite shifts in cyclists: a randomized, crossover trial

OBJECTIVES

Pistachio nut ingestion (3 oz./d, two weeks) was tested for effects on exercise performance and 21-h post-exercise recovery from inflammation, oxidative stress, immune dysfunction, and metabolite shifts.

METHODS

Using a randomized, crossover approach, cyclists (N = 19) engaged in two 75-km time trials after 2-weeks pistachio or no pistachio supplementation, with a 2-week washout period. Subjects came to the lab in an overnight fasted state, and ingested water only or 3 oz. pistachios with water before and during exercise. Blood samples were collected 45 min pre-exercise, and immediately post-, 1.5-h post-, and 21-h post-exercise, and analyzed for plasma cytokines, C-reactive protein (CRP), F2-isoprostanes (F2-IsoP), granulocyte phagocytosis (GPHAG) and oxidative burst activity (GOBA), and shifts in metabolites.

RESULTS

Performance time for the 75-km time trial was 4.8% slower under pistachio conditions (2.84 ± 0.11 and 2.71 ± 0.07 h, respectively, P = 0.034). Significant time effects were shown for plasma cytokines, CRP, F2-IsoP, GPHAG, and GOBA, with few group differences. Metabolomics analysis revealed 423 detectable compounds of known identity, with significant interaction effects for 19 metabolites, especially raffinose, (12Z)-9,10-Dihydroxyoctadec-12-enoate (9,10-DiHOME), and sucrose. Dietary intake of raffinose was 2.19 ± 0.15 and 0.35 ± 0.08 mg/d during the pistachio and no pistachio periods, and metabolomics revealed that colon raffinose and sucrose translocated to the circulation during exercise due to increased gut permeability. The post-exercise increase in plasma raffinose correlated significantly with 9,10-DiHOME and other oxidative stress metabolites.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, 2-weeks pistachio nut ingestion was associated with reduced 75-km cycling time trial performance and increased post-exercise plasma levels of raffinose, sucrose, and metabolites related to leukotoxic effects and oxidative stress.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01821820.

Rosuvastatin alleviates diabetic cardiomyopathy by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome and MAPK pathways in a type 2 diabetes rat model

PURPOSE

Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is important in inflammation of several diabetic complications. However, the potential role of NLRP3 inflammasome in the inflammatory process of diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) remains unclear. Although rosuvastatin (RSV) has an anti-inflammatory effect on some cardiovascular diseases, its influence on DCM is incompletely understood. We aimed to explore the effect on and underlying mechanism of RSV in DCM, and whether NLRP3 is a target for RSV.

METHODS

Type 2 diabetes was induced in rat. The characteristics of type 2 DCM were evaluated by metabolic tests, echocardiography and histopathology. The expression of factors was determined by real-time RT-PCR and western blot. Eight-week RSV treatment and NLRP3 gene silencing were used to investigate the effect and underlying target of RSV in DCM.

RESULTS

Compared with controls, diabetic rats showed severe metabolic disorder, cardiac dysfunction, fibrosis, disorganized ultrastructure, and excessive activation of thioredoxin interacting/inhibiting protein (TXNIP, p < 0.05), NLRP3 inflammasome (NLRP3, p < 0.01; apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain [ASC], p < 0.05; caspase-1, p < 0.01), interleukin-1β (p < 0.01) and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs, all p < 0.01). Compared with diabetes alone, RSV ameliorated the overexpression of NLRP3 inflammasome (NLRP3, p < 0.05; ASC, p < 0.05; pro-caspase-1 p < 0.05, caspase-1 p20, p < 0.01) and MAPKs (all p < 0.05), which paralleled the cardiac protection of RSV. Silencing NLRP3 ameliorated cardiac remodeling and dysfunction. The beneficial effects of RSV in vehicle-treated rats were all abrogated in NLRP3-silenced rats.

CONCLUSIONS

The beneficial effect of RSV on DCM depended on inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome, and correlated with suppression of the MAPKs.

The effects of moderate exercise on chronic stress-induced intestinal barrier dysfunction and antimicrobial defense

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of moderate exercise on repeated restraint stress (RRS)-induced intestinal barrier dysfunction and explore possible mechanisms in a mouse model. Male Balb/c mice (6weeks) were randomized into 7 groups: CON functioned as controls with no intervention; RRS was subjected to 6h per day RRS for 7 consecutive days; RRS+SWIM received 30min per day of swimming prior to RRS; CON+SWIM only received 30min per day of swimming; and the other groups received one session of 30min swimming prior to sacrifice at 1-, 3- and 6h recovery. Intestinal permeability was quantified with FITC-dextran. Bacterial translocation was determined by quantification of bacterial colony forming units (CFUs) in cultured mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN), and with fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Antimicrobial related gene expression at baseline and 1h after one session of 30min swimming was tested by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (Q-PCR) in small intestinal segments. Protein expression of 5 genes with statistically significant increase was measured at baseline, and 1-, 3- and 6h post-swimming using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Thirty minutes per day of swimming before RRS attenuated bacterial translocations and maintained intestinal permeability. Gene expression and protein levels for four antimicrobial peptides (α-defensin 5, β-defensin 1, RegIIIβ and RegIIIγ) were significantly increased after one 30min swimming session. In conclusion, moderate exercise attenuated chronic stress-induced intestinal barrier dysfunction in mice, possibly due to augmentation of antimicrobial responses in the small intestine.

Evaluation of Rhodiola rosea supplementation on skeletal muscle damage and inflammation in runners following a competitive marathon

Adaptogens modulate intracellular signaling and increase expression of heat shock protein 72 (HSP72). Rhodiola rosea (RR) is a medicinal plant with demonstrated adaptogenic properties. The purpose of this study was to measure the influence of RR supplementation on exercise-induced muscle damage, delayed onset of muscle soreness (DOMS), plasma cytokines, and extracellular HSP72 (eHSP72) in experienced runners completing a marathon. Experienced marathon runners were randomized to RR (n=24, 6 female, 18 male) or placebo (n=24, 7 female, 17 male) groups and under double-blinded conditions ingested 600mg/day RR extract or placebo for 30days prior to, the day of, and seven days post-marathon. Blood samples were collected, and vertical jump and DOMS assessed the day before, 15min post- and 1.5h post-marathon. DOMS was also assessed for seven days post-marathon. Marathon race performance did not differ between RR and placebo groups (3.87±0.12h and 3.93±0.12h, respectively, p=0.722). Vertical jump decreased post-marathon (time effect, p<0.001) with no difference between groups (interaction effect, p=0.673). Post-marathon DOMS increased significantly (p<0.001) but the pattern of change did not differ between groups (p=0.700). Myoglobin (Mb), creatine phosphokinase (CPK), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, IL-10, monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1), granulocyte-colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), C-reactive protein (CRP), and eHSP72 all increased post-marathon (all p<0.001), with no group differences over time (all p>0.300). In conclusion, RR supplementation (600mg/day) for 30days before running a marathon did not attenuate the post-marathon decrease in muscle function, or increases in muscle damage, DOMS, eHSP72, or plasma cytokines in experienced runners.

Immune and inflammation responses to a 3-day period of intensified running versus cycling

Functional overreaching has been linked to alterations in immunity and host pathogen defense, but little is known as to whether or not running and cycling evoke different responses. This study compared inflammation, muscle damage and soreness, and innate immune function responses to a 3-day period of intensified exercise in trained long distance runners (N=13, age 34.4±2.4year) and cyclists (N=22, age 36.6±1.7year, P=0.452). Upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) symptomatology was monitored for 12weeks using the Wisconsin Upper Respiratory Symptom Survey (WURSS), and subjects from both athletic groups came to the lab during week five and exercised 2.5h/day for 3days in a row at 70% VO2max. Blood samples were collected before and after the 3-day period of exercise, with recovery samples collected 1-, 14-, and 38h-post-exercise. Samples were analyzed for muscle damage [creatine kinase (CK), myoglobin (MYO)], inflammation (CRP, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, MCP), and innate immunity [granulocyte and monocyte phagocytosis (GR-PHAG and MO-PHAG) and oxidative burst activity (GR-OBA and MO-OBA)]. Runners compared to cyclists experienced significantly more muscle damage (CK 133% and MYO 404% higher post-3days exercise), inflammation (CRP 87%, IL-6 256%, IL 8 61%, IL-10 32%, MCP 29%), and delayed onset of muscle soreness (DOMS, 87%). The 3-day period of exercise caused significant downturns in GR-PHAG, MO-PHAG, GR-OBA, MO-OBA by 14- and 38h-recovery, but the pattern of change did not differ between groups. No group differences were measured for 12-week URTI severity (18.3±5.6 and 16.6±4.0, P=0.803) and symptom scores (33.4±12.6 and 24.7±5.8, P=0.477). These data indicate that a 3-day period of functional overreaching results in substantially more muscle damage and soreness, and systemic inflammation in runners compared to cyclists, but without group differences for 12-week URTI symptomatology and post-exercise decrements in innate immune function.

Metabolomics approach to assessing plasma 13- and 9-hydroxy-octadecadienoic acid and linoleic acid metabolite responses to 75-km cycling

Bioactive oxidized linoleic acid metabolites (OXLAMs) include 13- and 9-hydroxy-octadecadienoic acid (13-HODE + 9-HODE) and have been linked to oxidative stress, inflammation, and numerous pathological and physiological states. The purpose of this study was to measure changes in plasma 13-HODE + 9-HODE following a 75-km cycling bout and identify potential linkages to linoleate metabolism and established biomarkers of oxidative stress (F2-isoprostanes) and inflammation (cytokines) using a metabolomics approach. Trained male cyclists (N = 19, age 38.0 ± 1.6 yr, wattsmax 304 ± 10.5) engaged in a 75-km cycling time trial on their own bicycles using electromagnetically braked cycling ergometers (2.71 ± 0.07 h). Blood samples were collected preexercise, immediately post-, 1.5 h post-, and 21 h postexercise, and analyzed for plasma cytokines (IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, tumor necrosis factor-α, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor), F2-isoprostanes, and shifts in metabolites using global metabolomics procedures with gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS). 13-HODE + 9-HODE increased 3.1-fold and 1.7-fold immediately post- and 1.5 h postexercise (both P < 0.001) and returned to preexercise levels by 21-h postexercise. Post-75-km cycling plasma levels of 13-HODE + 9-HODE were not significantly correlated with increases in plasma cytokines but were positively correlated with postexercise F2-isoprostanes (r = 0.75, P < 0.001), linoleate (r = 0.54, P = 0.016), arachidate (r = 0.77, P < 0.001), 12,13-dihydroxy-9Z-octadecenoate (12,13-DiHOME) (r = 0.60, P = 0.006), dihomo-linolenate (r = 0.57, P = 0.011), and adrenate (r = 0.56, P = 0.013). These findings indicate that prolonged and intensive exercise caused a transient, 3.1-fold increase in the stable linoleic acid oxidation product 13-HODE + 9-HODE and was related to increases in F2-isoprostanes, linoleate, and fatty acids in the linoleate conversion pathway. These data support the use of 13-HODE + 9-HODE as an oxidative stress biomarker in acute exercise investigations.

Association of nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor 3 inflammasome and adverse clinical outcomes in patients with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy

BACKGROUND

The nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is a multiprotein complex consisting of NLRP3, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain (ASC) and caspase-1. In peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), NLRP3 can activate interleukin-1β (IL-1β), important in the chronic inflammatory process of idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (IDCM). Therefore, the NLRP3 inflammasome in PBMCs may be involved in the pathogenesis of IDCM. We evaluated the association of circulating levels of NLRP3 inflammasome and cardiac function in patients with IDCM and 6-month rehospitalization.

METHODS

We enrolled 54 patients with IDCM and 20 healthy volunteers and analyzed left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF), electrocardiography findings and circulating levels of NLRP3, ASC, caspase-1, IL-1β, N terminal-pro type B natriuretic peptide (NT-pro BNP) and blood values. Patients were followed up for 6 months.

RESULTS

On admission and discharge, the circulating levels of NLRP3, ASC, caspase-1 and IL-1β were higher in IDCM patients than healthy controls (all p<0.05). In patients, NLRP3 mRNA level was associated with LVEF, NT-pro BNP level and monocyte count (all p<0.05). LVEF at admission and mRNA levels of NLRP3 and IL-1β at discharge were independent risk factors of 6-month rehospitalization for patients. High NLRP3 mRNA level was associated with cumulative rehospitalization rate (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

NLRP3 level in PBMCs may be associated with cardiac function and rehospitalization in IDCM patients.