Comparison of Decaying Antibody Level After SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Case of Home Treated and Hospital Treated Patients at Different Interval

The aim of the study was to evaluate the quantities difference and persistence of antibody in home and hospital treated patients at different interval. A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, BIRDEM General Hospital, from July, 2020 to June, 2021. This study protocol was approved by Institutional Review Board (IRB), BIRDEM. SARS-CoV-2 caused death of huge number of people. The disease most commonly represents with fever, cough, loss of smell sensation, fatigue etc. Who had mild symptoms did not admit at hospital. But when the disease progress to respiratory distress, involvement of lung field more than 50.0% and other complications then the patients need hospital admission. Hospital treated patients showed higher antibody status in comparison to home treated patients. Moreover it was reported that increased amount of antibody developed after 3rd and 4th months of SARS-CoV-2 infection. In this study, statistically significant difference of decaying antibody level between home and hospital treated patients was observed.

TNFα-Induced Altered miRNA Expression Links to NF-κB Signaling Pathway in Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a common gynecological inflammatory disorder characterized by immune system dysregulation, which is involved in lesion initiation and progression. Studies have demonstrated that several cytokines are associated with the evolution of endometriosis, including tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα). TNFα is a non-glycosylated cytokine protein with potent inflammatory, cytotoxic, and angiogenic potential. In the current study, we examined the ability of TNFα to induce dysregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) linked to NFkB signaling pathways, thus contributing to the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Using RT-qPCR, the expression of several miRNAs was quantified in primary cells derived from eutopic endometrium of endometriosis subjects (EESC) and normal endometrial stromal cells (NESC), and also TNFα-treated NESCs. The phosphorylation of the pro-inflammatory molecule NF-κB and the candidates of the survival pathways PI3K, AKT, and ERK was measured by western blot analysis. The elevated secretion of TNFα in EESCs downregulates the expression level of several miRNAs significantly in EESCs compared to NESCs. Also, treatment of NESCs with exogenous TNFα significantly reduced the expression of miRNAs in a dose-dependent manner to levels similar to EESCs. In addition, TNFα significantly increased the phosphorylation of the PI3K, AKT, ERK, and NF-κB signaling pathways. Notably, treatment with curcumin (CUR, diferuloylmethane), an anti-inflammatory polyphenol, significantly increased the expression of dysregulated miRNAs in EESC in a dose-dependent manner. Our findings demonstrate that TNFα is upregulated in EESCs, which subsequently dysregulates the expression of miRNAs, contributing to the pathophysiology of endometriotic cells. CUR effectively inhibits the expression of TNFα, subsequently altering miRNA levels and suppressing the phosphorylation of AKT, ERK, and NF-κB.

TNFα-induced altered miRNA expression links to NF-κB signaling pathway in endometriosis

Endometriosis is a common gynecological inflammatory disorder characterized by immune system dysregulation, which is involved in lesion initiation and progression. Studies have demonstrated that several cytokines are associated with the evolution of endometriosis, including tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα). TNFα is a non-glycosylated cytokine protein with potent inflammatory, cytotoxic, and angiogenic potential. In the current study, we examined the ability of TNFα to induce dysregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) linked to NFkB-signaling pathways, thus contributing to the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Using RT-QPCR, the expression of several miRNAs were quantified in primary cells derived from eutopic endometrium of endometriosis subjects (EESC) and normal endometrial stromal cells (NESC) and also TNFα treated NESCs. The phosphorylation of the pro-inflammatory molecule NF-κB and the candidates of the survival pathways PI3K, AKT and ERK was measured by westernblot analysis. The elevated secretion of TNFα in EESCs downregulates the expression level of several miRNAs significantly (p < 0.05) in EESCs compared to NESC. Also treatment of NESCs with exogenous TNFα significantly reduced the expression of miRNAs in a dose-dependent manner to levels similar to EESCs. In addition, TNFα significantly increased the phosphorylation of the PI3K, AKT, ERK, and NF-κB signaling pathways. Notably, treatment with curcumin (CUR, diferuloylmethane), an anti-inflammatory polyphenol, significantly increased the expression of dysregulated miRNAs in EESC in a dose-dependent manner. Our findings demonstrate that TNFα is upregulated in EESCs, which subsequently dysregulates the expression of miRNAs, contributing to the pathophysiology of endometriotic cells. CUR effectively inhibits the expression of TNFα, subsequently altering miRNA levels and suppresses the phosphorylation of AKT, ERK, and NF-κB.

RF34 | PMON229 TNFa-Induced Altered miRNA Expression Links to Inflammation in Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a common gynecological inflammatory disorder, which is characterized by immune system dysregulation with initiation and progression. It affects 5% to 15% of reproductive-age women and is present in as many as 30% to 50% of patients with infertility and/or pain. In previous studies, including ours, have demonstrated that several cytokines have been associated with the evolution of endometriosis, including tumor necrosis factor-a (TNFa). TNFa is a non-glycosylated protein which has potent inflammatory, cytotoxic, and angiogenic potential. Therefore, in the current studies, we examined the effects of TNFa over a time course in the regulation of proinflammatory and proangiogenic microRNAs (miRNAs) in primary cultures of normal endometrial stromal cells (NESC) and compared with the untreated cells derived from eutopic endometrium of endometriosis subjects (EESC). miRNAs are short, 18- to 22-nucleotide– size, non-coding RNAs that act as post-transcriptional modulators of gene expression and are involved in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Using NanoString nCounter-based assays and quantitative RT-PCR, we have identified levels of several proinflammatory and proangiogenic miRNAs higher in EESC than NESC. NESC treatment with TNFa significantly altered the expression of proinflammatory and proangiogenic miRNAs in a time-dependent manner. Notably, TNFa significantly decreased phosphorylation of the PI3K, AKT, and ERK signaling pathways. Moreover, treatment of EESC and NESC with curcumin (diferuloylmethane, CUR), an anti-inflammatory folk medicine in Asian countries, significantly increased the expression of anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic miRNAs in a dose- and time-dependent manner. These findings demonstrate higher inflammatory, and proangiogenic miRNA production in EESC may be due to a higher concentration of TNFa than NESC under basal conditions. Therefore, suppressing TNFa may reduce the inflammatory and angiogenic miRNA associated with endometriosis.

Sources of Research Support: This study was supported in part by National Institutes of Health Grants 1SC3 GM113751, U01, 1SC1 GM130544, HD66439, 1R01HD057235, U54 CA118948, HD41749, S21MD000101 and G12-MD007602. This investigation was conducted in a facility constructed with support from Research Facilities Improvement Grant #C06 RR018386 from NIH/NCRR.

Presentation: Monday, June 13, 2022 12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m., Monday, June 13, 2022 1:06 p.m. - 1:11 p.m.

Neuregulin-1 signaling regulates cytokines and chemokines expression and secretion in granulosa cell

Background

Granulosa cells (GCs) are multilayered somatic cells within the follicle that provide physical support and microenvironment for the developing oocyte. In recent years, the role of Neuregulin-1 (NRG1), a member of the EGF-like factor family, has received considerable attention due to its neurodevelopmental and cardiac function. However, the exact physiological role of NRG1 in GC is mainly unknown. In order to confirm that NRG1 plays a regulatory role in rat GC functions, endogenous NRG1-knockdown studies were carried out in GCs using RNA interference methodology.

Results

Knockdown of NRG1 in GCs resulted in the enhanced expression and secretion of the cytokines and chemokines. In addition, the phosphorylation of PI3K/Akt/ERK1/2 was significantly low in GCs under these experimental conditions. Moreover, in vitro experimental studies suggest that tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα) treatment causes the physical destruction of GCs by activating caspase-3/7 activity. In contrast, exogenous NRG1 co-treatment of GCs delayed the onset of TNFα-induced apoptosis and inhibited the activation of caspase-3/7 activity. Furthermore, current experimental studies suggest that gonadotropins promote differential expression of NRG1 and ErbB3 receptors in GCs of the antral follicle. Interestingly, NRG1 and ErbB3 were intensely co-localized in the mural and cumulus GCs and cumulus-oocyte complex of pre-ovulatory follicles in the estrus stage.

Conclusions

The present studies suggest that gonadotropins-dependent NRG1-signaling in GCs may require the balance of the cytokines and chemokines expression and secretion, ultimately which may be supporting the follicular maturation and oocyte competence for ovulation and preventing follicular atresia.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13048-022-01021-0.

Human Myometrial and Uterine Fibroid Stem Cell-Derived Organoids for Intervening the Pathophysiology of Uterine Fibroid

Uterine fibroids (UFs) (leiomyomas or myomas) are the most common clonal neoplasms of the uterus in women of reproductive age worldwide. UFs originate from myometrium consist of smooth muscle and fibroblast components, in addition to a substantial amount of fibrous extracellular matrix which all contribute to the pathogenetic process. Current treatments are primarily limited to surgical and interventional. Here, we have established a novel and promising organoid model from both normal and patient myometrial stem cells (MMSCs). MMSCs embedded in Matrigel in stem cell media swiftly formed organoids which successfully proliferate and self-organized into complex structures developing a sustainable organoid culture that maintain their capacity to differentiate into the different cell types recapitulating their tissue of origin and shows responsiveness to the reproductive hormones (estrogen and progesterone). Gene expression analysis and structural features indicated the early onset of uterine fibrosis led to the accumulation of extracellular matrix suggesting the potential use of this model in better understanding of the pathophysiology associated with UFs and inventing novel therapeutics for the treatment of UFs.

Disparities in Radiotherapy: Practice Patterns Analysis of DIBH use in Non-English Speakers

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES

To examine current practice patterns in non-English speaking patients with breast cancer undergoing Deep Inspiratory Breath Hold (DIBH).

MATERIALS/METHODS

An anonymous, voluntary REDCap survey was distributed to 60 residency program coordinators of U.S. radiation oncology departments to survey their faculty and recent graduates. Eligibility was limited to board-certified radiation oncologists who have treated breast cancer within the prior 6 months.

RESULTS

There were 69 respondents, 53 of whom were eligible. 42% (n=22) of eligible respondents were from the main site at an academic center, with 28% (n=15) representing a satellite site, and 30% (n=16) from private practice. 53% reported at least 10% of their patients were non-English speaking. 90% offered DIBH at their institution and of those, 74% used DIBH for at least 1/4^th of their patients with breast cancer. 98% of those who use DIBH performed coaching at simulation, with 32% answering they would be "less likely" to utilize DIBH for non-English speakers. When utilized, 94% take into consideration potential language barriers for proper execution of DIBH. However, 51% had an interpreter present 76-100% of the time at CT simulation, which decreased to 31% at first fraction, and 11% at subsequent treatments. For non-English speaking patients undergoing DIBH coaching without a certified interpreter, 55% of respondents indicated that they provided verbal coaching in English, 32% indicated "not applicable" because they always use a certified interpreter, 11% used visual aids, and 32% indicated "other." Of those who answered other, the most commonly cited response was utilizing therapists or staff who spoke the patient's native language.

CONCLUSIONS

Disparities in the application of DIBH exist despite its established utility in reducing cardiac dose. This study provides evidence that language barriers may impact physician treatment practices from initial consideration of DIBH to subsequent delivery. This data suggests that breast cancer treatment considerations and subsequent execution are negatively affected in non-English speaking patients.

Growth dynamics among adolescent girls in Bangladesh: Evidence from nationally representative data spanning 2011-2014

Background

Adolescence is the last opportunity to reverse any growth faltering accumulated from fetal life through childhood and it is considered a crucial period to optimize human development. In Bangladesh, a growing double burden of underweight and obesity in adolescents is recognized, yet limited data exists on how, when, and where to intervene. This study assesses the dynamics of growth among adolescent girls in Bangladesh, providing insight about critical junctures where faltering occurs and where immediate interventions are warranted.

Methods

We pooled data from Bangladesh’s Food Security and Nutrition Surveillance Project collected between 2011 and 2014 to document the age dynamics of weight and linear growth. 20,572 adolescent girls were measured for height and 19,345 for weight. We constructed growth curves for height, weight, stunting, and underweight. We also stratified growth dynamics by wealth quintile to assess socioeconomic inequities in adolescent trajectories.

Results

Height-for-age z-score (HAZ) in Bangladeshi girls deteriorates throughout adolescence and especially during the early years. Mean HAZ decreases by 0.20 standard deviations (sd) per year in early adolescence (10–14 years) vs 0.06 sd/year during late adolescence (15–19 years), while stunting increases by 16 percentage points (pp) vs 6.7 pp, respectively. Conversely, BMI-for-age z-score (BAZ) increases by 0.13 sd/year in early adolescence vs 0.02 sd/year in late adolescence, and underweight decreases by 12.8 pp vs 3.2 pp. Adolescent girls in all socioeconomic groups show a similar pattern of HAZ and BAZ dynamics, but the curve for the richest quintile stays above that of the poorest across all ages.

Conclusions

Trends and levels of stunting and underweight among adolescent girls in Bangladesh are worrisome, suggesting substantial linear growth faltering in early adolescence, with improving weight-for-age occurring only as linear growth slows and stops. Given the rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Bangladesh and emerging evidence of the link between stunting and later chronic diseases, greater attention to adolescent growth and development is needed. Our findings suggest that, to address stunting, interventions in early adolescence would have the greatest benefits. School-based interventions could be a way to target this population.

Gonadotropin Dependent Neuregulin1 Signaling Regulates Luteal Cell Survival

The formation of a functional corpus luteum (CL) is an absolute requirement for reproductive success and is induced by the mid-cycle surge of luteinizing hormone (LH). The CL is a transient ovarian endocrine structure that maintains pregnancy in primate during the first trimester and in rodents during the entire pregnancy by producing steroid hormone progesterone (P4). CL growth and differentiation are tightly regulated by both survival and cell death signals, including endocrine (LH), intra-ovarian regulators, and cell-cell interactions. Neuregulin-1 (NRG1) is a member of the epidermal growth factor-like factor family that mediates it’s effect through the erythroblastoma (ErbB) family. However, the detailed mechanisms associated with the interplay of NRG1 and its receptors in CL function is not known. Therefore, we examined the role and action of NRG1 and its receptors in the gonadotropin signaling pathway that impacts CL functions. Immunocolocalization of NRG1 and ErbB2/3 in pregnant rat CL on day 14 and 21 suggest that both NRG1 and ErbB2/3 are differentially expressed in CL. Moreover, both NRG1 and ErbB2/3 are highly expressed in rat CL on day 14 compared to day 21. Furthermore, in vitro studies revealed that rat luteal cells (LCs) treated with exogenous tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα, an inflammatory cytokine) promoted apoptosis in LCs in a dose and time-dependent manner. However, the effects of TNFα was attenuated in presence of exogenous NRG1. Under these experimental conditions, immunoblot analysis indicated that exogenous TNFα treatment in the presence of NRG1 inhibits apoptosis through increased levels of the anti-apoptotic proteins Bcl2 and Bclxl, and activation of ErbB2-ErbB3-PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. Collectively, these studies provide new insights on the NRG1-mediated anti-apoptotic mechanism in LCs through ErbB3-ErbB2-PI3K-Akt→Bcl/Bcl-xL pathway and may have important clinical implications.

Acknowledgements: This study was supported in part by National Institutes of Health Grants 1 SC1 GM130544-01A1, 1SC3GM113751 and G12RR03034. This research was conducted in a facility constructed with support from the Research Facilities Improvement Grant C06RR018386 from the National Institutes of Health National Center for Research Resources.

Emerging roles of microRNAs in the regulation of Toll-like receptor (TLR)-signaling

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are evolutionarily conserved molecules that detect exogenous and endogenous molecular patterns and trigger both the innate and adaptive immune systems to initiate a pathogen-specific immune response and eliminate the threat. However, sustained, or prolonged activation of the immune system disrupts immunological homeostasis and leads to chronic or acute inflammatory diseases. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) can intervene in the initiation and modulation of the complex immunoregulatory networks via regulating the expression of TLRs and multiple components of TLR-signaling pathways including signaling proteins, transcription factors, and cytokines. Moreover, the aberrant expression of TLRs can induce the expression of several miRNAs which in turn regulate the expression of TLR signaling components and TLR-induced cytokines. The present review aims to highlight the emerging roles of miRNA in the regulation of TLR signaling, the interaction between the miRNAs and TLRs, and their implication in inflammatory diseases.

OR20-04 Modeling Uterine Disorders Utilizing Adult Uterine Stem Cells

Endometriosis and uterine fibroids (leiomyomas) are benign gynecological disorders affecting 5-15% of women of reproductive age. They cause a wide range of symptoms including mild to severe pelvic pain and infertility. Due to a paucity of proper study models, hormonal and cellular mechanisms driving the pathology of endometriosis and fibroid development and growth remain unclear. Therefore, in the current study, we established 3D spheroid/organoid cultures from human uterine epithelial and Stro-1+/CD44+ myometrial stem cells and also from cells isolated from normal proliferative phase endometrium. Uterine organoid cultures were derived from endometrial epithelial and myometrial cells isolated from women who were not receiving exogenous hormones at the time of laparoscopy or hysterectomy. They were embedded in Matrigel, and grown in culture media. To determine whether spheroids/organoids were responsive to steroid hormones, the cultures were treated in presence or absence of estradiol (E2), progesterone (P4) or the combination (E2+P4) in serum free culture media. Time-dependent spheroid/organoid-growth curves and morphological analyses were used to define growth characteristics of endometrial and myometrial organoids. Subsequently, immunohistochemical colocalization of steroid hormone receptors (estrogen receptor alpha (ER-α) and progesterone receptor (PR-A\B), alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA; myometrial cell marker), vimentin (stromal cell marker) and E-cadherin (endometrial epithelial cell marker) was assessed. Epithelial organoids expressed only E-cadherin in the absence of hormonal treatment. Myometrial organoids expressed α-SMA and vimentin. No expression of E-cadherin was observed in myometrial organoids. However, we observed the expression of ER-α and PR-A\B when organoids were treated with E2+P4 in a time-dependent manner. Stro-1+/CD44+ myometrial stem cells differentiated into α-SMA and fibroblast/stromal cells and response to sex hormones. These findings suggest human uterine organoid cultures retained their characteristic cellular responses to E2+P4 and could be maintained long-term in ex vivo culture. Thus, the current 3D uterine organoid systems show high expansion capacity with retention of phenotypical and functional properties, which can be used for uterine pathophysiological studies, drug discoveries and drug repositioning.

TRPM7 Induces Mechanistic Target of Rap1b Through the Downregulation of miR-28-5p in Glioma Proliferation and Invasion

Objectives: Our previous findings demonstrate that channel-kinase transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channel subfamily M, member 7 (TRPM7) is critical in regulating human glioma cell migration and invasion. Since microRNAs (miRNAs) participate in complex regulatory networks that may affect almost every cellular and molecular process during glioma formation and progression, we explored the role of miRNAs in human glioma progression by comparing miRNA expression profiles due to differentially expressed TRPM7. Methods: First, we performed miRNA microarray analysis to determine TRPM7's miRNA targets upon TRPM7 silencing in A172 cells and validated the miRNA microarray data using A172, U87MG, U373MG, and SNB19 cell lines by stem-loop RT-qPCRs. We next determined whether TRPM7 regulates glioma cell proliferation and migration/invasion through different functional domains by overexpressing wild-type human TRPM7 (wtTRPM7), two mutants with TRPM7's α-kinase domain deleted (Δkinase-DK), or a point mutation in the ATP binding site of the α-kinase domain (K1648R-KR). In addition, we determined the roles of miR-28-5p in glioma cell proliferation and invasion by overexpressing or under expressing miR-28-5p in vitro. Lastly, we determined whether a Ras-related small GTP-binding protein (Rap1b) is a target of miR-28-5p in glioma tumorigenesis. Results: The miRNA microarray data revealed a list of 16 downregulated and 10 upregulated miRNAs whose transcripts are significantly changed by TRPM7 knock-down. Cell invasion was significantly reduced in two TRPM7 mutants with inactive kinase domain, Δkinase, and K1648R transfected glioma cells. miR-28-5p overexpression suppressed glioma cells' proliferation and invasion, and miR-28-5p under expression led to a significant increase in glioma cell proliferation and migration/invasion compared to that of the controls. miR-28-5p suppressed glioma cell proliferation and migration by targeting Rap1b. Co-transfection of siRap1b with miR28-5p inhibitor reduced the glioma cell proliferation and invasion, caused by the latter. Conclusions: These results indicate that TRPM7's channel activity is required for glioma cell growth while the kinase domain is required for cell migration/invasion. TRPM7 regulates miR-28-5p expression, which suppresses cell proliferation and invasion in glioma cells by targeting Rap1b signaling.

SAT-200 Therapeutic Targeting of Functional MicroRNA Expression by Curcumin in Human Endometrial Stromal Cells

Endometriosis is a chronic gynecological inflammatory disorder in which immune system dysregulation is thought to play a role in its initiation and progression. Current agency-approved hormonal therapies, including synthetic progestins, GnRH-agonists, and danazol are often of limited efficacy and counterproductive to fertility, and cause systemic side effects due to suppression of endogenous steroid hormone production. Our recent publication (PMID: 30259980) suggests that curcumin (diferuloylmethane, CUR), an anti-inflammatory folk medicine in Asian countries, has therapeutic potential to reduce inflammation associated with endometriosis. Therefore, in the current studies we examined the effects of CUR at different doses over a time course in the regulation of proinflammatory and proangiogenic microRNAs (miRNAs) in primary cultures of normal endometrial stromal cells (NESC) and cells derived from eutopic endometrium of endometriosis subjects (EESC). miRNAs are non-coding RNAs that regulate protein translation and have been shown to be involved in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Using NanoString nCounter-based assays and semi-quantitative RT-PCR we have identified levels of several proinflammatory and proangiogenic miRNAs (including has-miR-196b-5p, has-miR-199a-5p, has-miR-21-5p) that are higher in EESC compared to NESC. EESC and NESC treatment with CUR significantly reduced expression of proinflammatory and proangiogenic miRNAs in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Notably, CUR significantly decreased phosphorylation of the AKT, ERK and prohibitin signaling pathways. These findings demonstrate higher proinflammatory and proangiogenic miRNA production in EESC compared to NESC under basal conditions, and suggest that by suppressing these factors, CUR has the therapeutic potential to reduce inflammation associated with endometriosis. Nothing to Disclose: IC; SB; AD; WX; CN; NS, RNT, WET. Sources of Research Support: This study was supported in part by National Institutes of Health Grants 1SC3 GM113751, U01 HD66439, 1R01HD057235, U54 CA118948, HD41749, S21MD000101 and G12-MD007602. This investigation was conducted in a facility constructed with support from Research Facilities Improvement Grant #C06 RR018386 from NIH/NCRR.

Curcumin attenuates proangiogenic and proinflammatory factors in human eutopic endometrial stromal cells through the NF-κB signaling pathway

Endometriosis is a chronic gynecological inflammatory disorder in which immune system dysregulation is thought to play a role in its initiation and progression. Due to altered sex steroid receptor concentrations and other signaling defects, eutopic endometriotic tissues have an attenuated response to progesterone. This progesterone-resistance contributes to lesion survival, proliferation, pain, and infertility. The current agency-approved hormonal therapies, including synthetic progestins, GnRH agonists, and danazol are often of limited efficacy and counterproductive to fertility and cause systemic side effects due to suppression of endogenous steroid hormone levels. In the current study, we examined the effects of curcumin (CUR, diferuloylmethane), which has long been used as an anti-inflammatory folk medicine in Asian countries for this condition. The basal levels of proinflammatory and proangiogenic chemokines and cytokines expression were higher in primary cultures of stromal cells derived from eutopic endometrium of endometriosis (EESC) subjects compared with normal endometrial stromal cells (NESC). The treatment of EESC and NESC with CUR significantly and dose-dependently reduced chemokine and cytokine secretion over the time course. Notably, CUR treatment significantly decreased phosphorylation of the IKKα/β, NF-κB, STAT3, and JNK signaling pathways under these experimental conditions. Taken together, our findings suggest that CUR has therapeutic potential to abrogate aberrant activation of chemokines and cytokines, and IKKα/β, NF-κB, STAT3, and JNK signaling pathways to reduce inflammation associated with endometriosis.

Gonadotropin-Dependent Neuregulin-1 Signaling Regulates Female Rat Ovarian Granulosa Cell Survival

Mammalian ovarian follicular development and maturation of an oocyte competent to be fertilized and develop into an embryo depends on tightly regulated, spatiotemporally orchestrated crosstalk among cell death, survival, and differentiation signals through extra- and intraovarian signals, as well as on a permissive ovarian follicular microenvironment. Neuregulin-1 (NRG1) is a member of the epidermal growth factor-like factor family that mediates its effects by binding to a member of the erythroblastoma (ErbB) family. Our experimental results suggest gonadotropins promote differential expression of NRG1 and erbB receptors in granulosa cells (GCs), and NRG1 in theca cells during follicular development, and promote NRG1 secretions in the follicular fluid (FF) of rat ovaries. During the estrous cycle of rat, NRG1 and erbB receptors are differentially expressed in GCs and correlate positively with serum gonadotropins and steroid hormones. Moreover, in vitro experimental studies suggest that the protein kinase C inhibitor staurosporine (STS) causes the physical destruction of GCs by the activation of caspase-3. Exogenous NRG1 treatment of GCs delayed onset of STS-induced apoptosis and inhibited cleaved caspase-3 expressions. Moreover, exogenous NRG1 treatment of GCs alters STS-induced death by maintaining the expression of ErbB2, ErbB3, pAkt, Bcl2, and BclxL proteins. Taken together, these studies demonstrate that NRG1 is gonadotropin dependent, differentially regulated in GCs and theca cells, and secreted in ovarian FF as an intracellular survival factor that may govern follicular maturation.

Morphological, Histobiochemical and Molecular Characterisation of Low Lignin Phloem Fibre (llpf) Mutant of Dark Jute (Corchorus olitorius L.)

Lignin is a versatile plant metabolite challenging high-end industrial applications of several plant products including jute. Application of developmental mutant in regulation of lignification in jute may open up door for much awaited jute based diversified products. In the present study, a novel dark jute (Corchorus olitorius L.) mutant with low lignin (7.23%) in phloem fibre being compared to wild-type JRO 204 (13.7%) was identified and characterised. Unique morphological features including undulated stem, petiole and leaf vein distinguished the mutant in gamma ray irradiated mutant population. Histological and biochemical analysis revealed reduced lignification of phloem fibre cells of the plant. RT-PCR analysis demonstrated temporal transcriptional regulation of CCoAMT1 gene in the mutant. The mutant was found an extremely useful model to study phloem fibre developmental biology in the crop besides acting as a donor genetic stock for low lignin containing jute fibre in dark jute improvement programme.

Understanding the Mechanism of Bacterial Biofilms Resistance to Antimicrobial Agents

A biofilm is a group of microorganisms, that causes health problems for the patients with indwelling medical devices via attachment of cells to the surface matrix. It increases the resistance of a microorganism for antimicrobial agents and developed the human infection. Current strategies are removed or prevent the microbial colonies from the medical devices, which are attached to the surfaces. This will improve the clinical outcomes in favor of the patients suffering from serious infectious diseases. Moreover, the identification and inhibition of genes, which have the major role in biofilm formation, could be the effective approach for health care systems. In a current review article, we are highlighting the biofilm matrix and molecular mechanism of antimicrobial resistance in bacterial biofilms.

Combinatorial effect of curcumin with docetaxel modulates apoptotic and cell survival molecules in prostate cancer

Docetaxel is the most commonly used chemotherapeutic agent to target androgen signaling in metastatic prostate cancer (PCa); however, prolonged treatment with docetaxel results in drug-resistant cancer cells. Combination therapies have the potential of increasing the effectiveness of drug treatment as well as decreasing the side effects. Curcumin is a nontoxic organic compound with multifaceted chemopreventive potential. In this study, we evaluated whether curcumin can reinforce the effect of docetaxel on PCa cells. The PCa cell lines DU145 and PC3 were treated with curcumin and docetaxel alone or in combination. After completion of the treatment cell proliferation and the expression of pro-survival and anti-apoptotic markers and the signaling molecules were analyzed. The combined treatment of curcumin and docetaxel inhibited the proliferation and induced apoptosis significantly higher than the curcumin and docetaxel-treated group alone. Interestingly, the combined treatment with curcumin and docetaxel modulates the expression of RTKs, PI3K, phospho-AKT, NF-kappa B, p53, and COX-2. These results suggest that curcumin can be a potential therapeutic contender in enhancing the efficacy of docetaxel in PCa treatment.

Prohibitin regulates the FSH signaling pathway in rat granulosa cell differentiation

Published results from our laboratory identified prohibitin (PHB), a gene product expressed in granulosa cells (GCs) that progressively increases during follicle maturation. Our current in vitro studies demonstrate that follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) stimulates Phb expression in rat primary GCs. The FSH-dependent expression of PHB was primarily localized within mitochondria, and positively correlates with the morphological changes in GCs organelles, and synthesis and secretions of estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4). In order to confirm that PHB plays a regulatory role in rat GC differentiation, endogenous PHB-knockdown studies were carried out in undifferentiated GCs using adenoviral (Ad)-mediated RNA interference methodology. Knockdown of PHB in GCs resulted in the suppression of the key steroidogenic enzymes including steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), p450 cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme (p450scc), 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD), and aromatase (Cyp19a1); and decreased E2 and P4 synthesis and secretions in the presence of FSH stimulation. Furthermore, these experimental studies also provided direct evidence that PHB within the mitochondrial fraction in GCs is phosphorylated at residues Y249, T258, and Y259 in response to FSH stimulation. The observed levels of phosphorylation of PHB at Y249, T258, and Y259 were significantly low in GCs in the absence of FSH stimulation. In addition, during GC differentiation FSH-induced expression of phospho-PHB (pPHB) requires the activation of MEK1-ERK1/2 signaling pathway. Taken together, these studies provide new evidence supporting FSH-dependent PHB/pPHB upregulation in GCs is required to sustain the differentiated state of GCs.

Exosomes derived from endometriotic stromal cells have enhanced angiogenic effects in vitro

Our objective has been to establish a pro-angiogenic role for exosomes in endometriosis and to determine whether a differential expression profile of cellular and exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) exists in endometriosis. We performed an in vitro study of human primary endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). We isolated and characterized exosomes from ESCs from five endometriosis patients and five phase-matched controls. Exosomes were characterized by transmission electron microscopy and NanoSight technology. MiRNA was assessed by deep sequencing and reverse transcription with quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Exosome uptake studies were achieved by means of confocal microscopy. The pro-angiogenic experiments were executed by treating HUVECs with ESC-derived exosomes. We observed differential profiles of exosomal miRNA expression between exosomes derived from endometriosis lesion cells and diseased eutopic stromal cells compared with exosomes derived from control ESCs. We also demonstrated autocrine cellular uptake of exosomes and paracrine functional angiogenic effects of exosomes on HUVECs. The results of this study support the hypothesis that exosomes derived from ESCs play autocrine/paracrine roles in the development of endometriosis, potentially modulating angiogenesis. The broader clinical implications are that Sampson’s theory of retrograde menstruation possibly encompasses the finding that exosomes work as intercellular communication modulators in endometriosis.

Prohibitin( PHB) roles in granulosa cell physiology

Ovarian granulosa cells (GC) play an important role in the growth and development of the follicle in the process known as folliculogenesis. In the present review, we focus on recent developments in prohibitin (PHB) research in relation to GC physiological functions. PHB is a member of a highly conserved eukaryotic protein family containing the repressor of estrogen activity (REA)/stomatin/PHB/flotillin/HflK/C (SPFH) domain (also known as the PHB domain) found in diverse species from prokaryotes to eukaryotes. PHB is ubiquitously expressed in a circulating free form or is present in multiple cellular compartments including mitochondria, nucleus and plasma membrane. In mitochondria, PHB is anchored to the mitochondrial inner membrane and forms complexes with the ATPases associated with proteases having diverse cellular activities. PHB continuously shuttles between the mitochondria, cytosol and nucleus. In the nucleus, PHB interacts with various transcription factors and modulates transcriptional activity directly or through interactions with chromatin remodeling proteins. Many functions have been attributed to the mitochondrial and nuclear PHB complexes such as cellular differentiation, anti-proliferation, morphogenesis and maintenance of the functional integrity of the mitochondria. However, to date, the regulation of PHB expression patterns and GC physiological functions are not completely understood.

Prohibitins role in cellular survival through Ras-Raf-MEK-ERK pathway

Prohibitins are members of a highly conserved protein family containing the stomatin/prohibitin/flotillin/HflK/C (SPFH) domain (also known as the prohibitin [PHB] domain) found in unicellular eukaryotes, fungi, plants, animals, and humans. Two highly homologous members of prohibitins expressed in eukaryotes are prohibitin (PHB; B-cell receptor associated protein-32, BAP-32) and prohibitin 2/repressor of estrogen receptor activity (PHB2, REA, BAP-37). Both PHB and REA/PHB2 are ubiquitously expressed and are present in multiple cellular compartments including the mitochondria, nucleus, and the plasma membrane. Multiple functions have been attributed to the mitochondrial and nuclear PHB and PHB2/REA including cellular differentiation, anti-proliferation, and morphogenesis. One of the major functions of the prohibitins are in maintaining the functional integrity of the mitochondria and protecting cells from various stresses. In the present review, we focus on the recent research developments indicating that PHB and PHB2/REA are involved in maintaining cellular survival through the Ras-Raf-MEK-Erk pathway. Understanding the molecular mechanisms by which the intracellular signaling pathways utilize prohibitins in governing cellular survival is likely to result in development of therapeutic strategies to overcome various human pathological disorders such as diabetes, obesity, neurological diseases, inflammatory bowel disease, and cancer.

Maintaining the reproductive potential of cancer patients during cancer treatment

Cancer therapies are known to alter the reproductive potential in cancer patients. Due to improved survival rates in cancer patients of reproductive age, considerations of the long-term effects of cancer therapy have become more significant. Oncofertility is a new discipline in medicine that deals with maintaining the reproductive potential of cancer patients while they are receiving gonadotoxic cancer treatment. The purpose of this review is to explore how cancer treatment impairs reproductive functioning and present the current options for preservation of fertility in women. All patients with reproductive potential should be made aware of the possible treatment-related infertility and be offered appropriate fertility preservation options before cancer treatment is instituted. The hope is that, in the future, mechanism(s) can be developed to preserve immature germ cells in the ovary, so that they can be used for fertilization in vivo or in vitro.

The emerging roles of prohibitins in folliculogenesis

Prohibitins are members of a highly conserved eukaryotic protein family containing the stomatin/prohibitin/flotillin/HflK/C (SPFH) domain (also known as the prohibitin (PHB) domain) found in divergent species from prokaryotes to eukaryotes. Prohibitins are found in unicellular eukaryotes, fungi, plants, animals and humans. Prohibitins are ubiquitously expressed and present in multiple cellular compartments including the mitochondria, nucleus, and the plasma membrane, and shuttles between the mitochondria, cytosol and nucleus. Multiple functions have been attributed to the mitochondrial and nuclear prohibitins, including cellular differentiation, anti-proliferation, and morphogenesis. In the present review, we focus on the recent developments in prohibitins research related to folliculogenesis. Based on current research findings, the data suggest that these molecules play important roles in modulating specific responses of granulose cells to follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) by acting at multiple levels of the FSH signal transduction pathway. Understanding the molecular mechanisms by which the intracellular signaling pathways utilize prohibitins in governing folliculogenesis is likely to result in development of strategies to overcome fertility disorders and suppress ovarian cancer growth.

The emerging roles of prohibitins in folliculogenesis

Prohibitins are members of a highly conserved eukaryotic protein family containing the stomatin/prohibitin/flotillin/HflK/C (SPFH) domain (also known as the prohibitin (PHB) domain) found in divergent species from prokaryotes to eukaryotes. Prohibitins are found in unicellular eukaryotes, fungi, plants, animals and humans. Prohibitins are ubiquitously expressed and present in multiple cellular compartments including the mitochondria, nucleus, and the plasma membrane, and shuttles between the mitochondria, cytosol and nucleus. Multiple functions have been attributed to the mitochondrial and nuclear prohibitins, including cellular differentiation, anti-proliferation, and morphogenesis. In the present review, we focus on the recent developments in prohibitins research related to folliculogenesis. Based on current research findings, the data suggest that these molecules play important roles in modulating specific responses of granulose cells to follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) by acting at multiple levels of the FSH signal transduction pathway. Understanding the molecular mechanisms by which the intracellular signaling pathways utilize prohibitins in governing folliculogenesis is likely to result in development of strategies to overcome fertility disorders and suppress ovarian cancer growth.

Prohibitin (PHB) acts as a potent survival factor against ceramide induced apoptosis in rat granulosa cells

AIM

Ceramide is a key factor in inducing germ cell apoptosis by translocating from cumulus cells into the adjacent oocyte and lipid rafts through gap junctions. Therefore studies designed to elucidate the mechanistic pathways in ceramide induced granulosa cell (GC) apoptosis and follicular atresia may potentially lead to the development of novel lipid-based therapeutic strategies that will prevent infertility and premature menopause associated with chemo and/or radiation therapy in female cancer patients. Our previous studies have shown that Prohibitin (PHB) is intimately involved in GCs differentiation, atresia, and luteolysis.

MAIN METHODS

In the present study, we have examined the functional effects of loss-/gain-of-function of PHB using adenoviral technology in delaying apoptosis induced by the physiological ligand ceramide in rat GCs.

KEY FINDINGS

Under these experimental conditions, exogenous ceramide C-8 (50 μM) augmented the expression of mitochondrial PHB and subsequently cause the physical destruction of GC by the release of mitochondrial cytochrome c and activation of caspase-3. In further studies, silencing of PHB expression by adenoviral small interfering RNA (shRNA) sensitized GCs to ceramide C8-induce apoptosis. In contrast, adenovirus (Ad) directed overexpression of PHB in GCs resulted in increased PHB content in mitochondria and delayed the onset of ceramide induced apoptosis in the infected GCs.

SIGNIFICANCE

Taken together, these results provide novel evidences that a critical level of PHB expression within the mitochondria plays a key intra-molecular role in GC fate by mediating the inhibition of apoptosis and may therefore, contribute significantly to ceramide induced follicular atresia.

Trichomoniasis: evaluation to execution

Trichomoniasis is the most common sexually transmitted disease, caused by a motile flagellate non-invasive parasitic protozoan, Trichomonas vaginalis (T. vaginalis). More than 160 million people worldwide are annually infected by this protozoan. T. vaginalis occupies an extracellular niche in the complex human genito-urinary environment (vagina, cervix, penis, prostate gland, and urethra) to survive, multiply and evade host defenses. T. vaginalis (strain G3) has a ∼160 megabase genome with 60,000 genes, the largest number of genes ever identified in protozoans. The T. vaginalis genome is a highly conserved gene family that encodes a massive proteome with one of the largest coding (expressing ∼4000 genes) capacities in the trophozoite stage, and helps T. vaginalis to adapt and survive in diverse environment. Based on recent developments in the field, we review T. vaginalis structure, patho-mechanisms, parasitic virulence, and advances in diagnosis and therapeutics.

Nanoparticle-based therapeutic delivery of prohibitin to the colonic epithelial cells ameliorates acute murine colitis

BACKGROUND

Intestinal epithelial expression of antioxidants and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) contribute to mucosal barrier integrity and epithelial homeostasis, two key events in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Genetic restoration of intestinal epithelial prohibitin 1 (PHB) levels during experimental colitis reduces the severity of disease through sustained epithelial antioxidant expression and reduced NF-κB activation. To determine the therapeutic potential of restoring epithelial PHB during experimental colitis in mice, we assessed two methods of PHB colonic mucosal delivery: adenovirus-directed administration by enema and poly(lactic acid) nanoparticle (NPs) delivery by gavage.

METHODS

As a proof-of-principle to demonstrate the therapeutic efficacy of PHB, we utilized adenovirus-directed administration by enema. Second, we used NPs-based colonic delivery of biologically active PHB to demonstrate therapeutic use for human IBD. Colitis was induced by oral administration of dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) in water for 6-7 days. Wildtype mice receiving normal tap water served as controls.

RESULTS

Both methods of delivery resulted in increased levels of PHB in the surface epithelial cells of the colon and reduced severity of DSS-induced colitis in mice as measured by body weight loss, clinical score, myeloperoxidase activity, proinflammatory cytokine expression, histological score, and protein carbonyl content.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study to show oral delivery of a biologically active protein by NPs encapsulated in hydrogel to the colon. Here we show that therapeutic delivery of PHB to the colon reduces the severity of DSS-induced colitis in mice. PHB may represent a novel therapeutic target in IBD.

Melatonin: fifty years of scientific journey from the discovery in bovine pineal gland to delineation of functions in human

Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) was first purified and characterized from the bovine pineal gland extract by Aron Lerner and co-workers in 1958. Since then, a plethora of information has piled up on its biosynthesis, metabolism, time-bound periodicity, physiological and patho-physiological functions, as well as its interactions with other endocrine or neuro-endocrine organs and tissues in the body. Melatonin has wide range of applications in physiology and biomedical fields. In recent years, a significant progress has been made in the understanding mechanism of its actions at the cellular and molecular levels. Consistent efforts have uncovered the mystery of this indoleamine, and demonstrated its role in regulation of a large as well as diverse body functions in different groups of animals in general, and in humans in particular. Current review, in commemoration of 50 years of discovery of melatonin, while revisiting the established dogmas, summarizes current information on biosynthesis, secretion, metabolism and molecular mechanism of action of melatonin at cellular level and highlights the recent research on its role in human physiology and clinical biology.

Caspases - an update

Caspases belong to a family of highly conserved aspartate-specific cysteine proteases and are members of the interleukin-1beta-converting enzyme family, present in multicellular organisms. The caspase gene family consists of 15 mammalian members that are grouped into two major sub-families, namely inflammatory caspases and apoptotic caspases. The apoptotic caspases are further subdivided into two sub-groups, initiator caspases and executioner caspases. The caspases form a caspase-cascade system that plays the central role in the induction, transduction and amplification of intracellular apoptotic signals for cell fate determination, regulation of immunity, and cellular proliferation and differentiation. The substrates of apoptotic caspases have been associated with cellular dismantling, while inflammatory caspases mediate the proteolytic activation of inflammatory cytokines. The activation of this delicate caspase-cascade system and its functions are regulated by a variety of regulatory molecules, such as the inhibitor of apoptosis protein (IAP), FLICE, calpain, and Ca(2+). Based on the available literature we have reviewed and discussed the members of the caspase family, caspase-cascade system, caspase-regulating molecules and their apoptotic and non-apoptotic functions in cellular life and death. Also recent progress in the molecular structure and physiological role of non-mammalian caspases such as paracaspases, metacaspases and caspase-like-protease family members are included in relation to that of mammalian species.

Apoptosis of rat granulosa cells after staurosporine and serum withdrawal is suppressed by adenovirus-directed overexpression of prohibitin

Prohibitin (Phb1) is a highly conserved mitochondrial protein that is associated with granulosa cell differentiation, atresia, and luteolysis. Although prohibitin has been implicated in the suppression of apoptosis in mammalian cells, its specific role in programmed cell death in granulosa cells is unknown. In the present study, we examined the role of prohibitin in mediating staurosporine (STS) and serum withdrawal induced apoptosis in undifferentiated rat granulosa cells. Treatment of granulosa cells isolated from immature rat ovaries with STS and/or serum withdrawal induced a rapid decrease in the transmembrane potential of mitochondria, resulting in increased prohibitin content and induced apoptosis in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Infection of granulosa cells with a Phb1 adenoviral construct resulted in overexpression of prohibitin that markedly attenuated the ability of STS and serum withdrawal to induce apoptosis via the intrinsic apoptotic pathway. To determine the site of action of Phb1, granulosa cells were transfected with a prohibitin-eGFP fusion construct, and the fusion protein expression patterns were analyzed by fluorescence microscopy and Western blot analysis of cell fractionated samples. These studies indicated that the prohibitin-eGFP fusion protein moved from the cytoplasm into the mitochondria. However, no prohibitin-eGFP fusion protein was observed in the nucleus in response to the STS-induced apoptotic stimulus. This result was corroborated by Western blot analysis with green fluorescent protein-specific antibody. Furthermore, the prohibitin-eGFP fusion protein also inhibited programmed cell death. These results provide evidence that prohibitin could serve an antiapoptotic role in undifferentiated granulosa cells.

Molecular cloning and sequence analysis of the cDNA encoding thyroid-stimulating hormone beta-subunit of common duck and mule duck pituitaries: in vitro regulation of steady-state TSHbeta mRNA level

For better understanding of phylogenetic diversity and evolution of pituitary thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in birds, we have cloned the cDNAs encoding TSH beta subunit (TSHbeta), by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE) from two species of domestic ducks, common duck (Tsaiya duck and Pekin duck) (Anas platyrhynchos domesticus) and mule duck (hybrid of male muscovy duck Cairina moschata and female A. platyrhynchos domesticus). The nucleotide sequences of isolated TSHbeta cDNAs of the two species of ducks are identical, with each including 66 bp of 5'-untranslated region (UTR), 402 bp of coding region, and 82 bp 3'-UTR followed by 18 bp poly A tract. The deduced TSHbeta subunit of the ducks contains 134 amino acids consisting of a putative signal peptide of 19 amino acids and a putative mature protein of 115 amino acids. However, the TSHbetas of common duck and mule duck differ from the TSHbeta of muscovy duck in one amino acid at position 97 of the mature protein: isoleucine for common duck and mule duck, and valine for muscovy duck. Our findings thus demonstrate that inter-genus variation of TSHbeta exists in Family Anatidae, and that TSHbeta gene in the mule duck is preferentially transcribed from the maternal genome rather than from the paternal genome. TSHbeta mRNA expressions were investigated by culturing common duck pituitaries with various doses of hormones. Thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) stimulated, while thyroid hormones, triiodothyronine (T(3)) and thyroxine (T(4)), inhibited the TSHbeta mRNA levels, in dose-related manners. The findings thus support that the mode of regulation of TSH gene expression in hypothalamo-pituitary-thyroid axis in birds is similar to that in mammals. Cortisol and corticosterone decreased the steady-state TSHbeta mRNA levels at the pituitary level, in a dose-related manner, the first-time demonstration in vertebrates. The results may suggest that glucocorticoids exert suppressive action directly at pituitary level in modulation of steady-state TSHbeta mRNA level.