Effect of inoculation with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi on the energy metabolism of selenite-rich amaranth

A series of pot trials were undertaken to examine the impact of four arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), namely Glomus mosseae (G.m), Glomus etunicatum (G.e), Corymbiglomus tortuosum (C.t), and the combined application of Glomus etunicatum and Corymbiglomus tortuosum (G.e + C.t), on the energy metabolism of amaranth plants grown in soil enriched with selenite at a concentration of 0.5 mg kg-1 . The inoculation of four AMFs resulted in an increase in both amaranth biomass and selenium (Se) content in leaves. The activities of phosphoglucose isomerase (PGI) and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase + 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase were observed to decrease when AMFs were inoculated, as compared with the absence of AMF inoculation. The inoculation with G.m, C.t, and G.e + C.t resulted in an increase in succinate dehydrogenase activity; however, the inoculation with G.m, G.e, and G.e + C.t led to an increase in ascorbate oxidase activity. Furthermore, the inoculation of all four AMFs resulted in an increase in cytochrome c oxidase activity and the concentrations of oxidized coenzyme I (NAD) and reduced coenzyme I (NADH). The polyphenol oxidase activity of amaranth plants increased when inoculated with G.m and G.e, whereas it decreased when inoculated with C.t and G.e + C.t. Furthermore, the application of all four AMF treatments resulted in a reduction in adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels and energy charge. It was worth mentioning that there was a clear inverse relationship between the energy charge and the biomass, Se concentration in the leaves. The findings presented in this research indicated that AMF may have an impact on energy metabolism and ultimately the biomass of amaranth by influencing the uptake of Se.

[Epidemiological characteristics of human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV) among acute respiratory infection (ARI) cases in 16 provinces of China from 2009 to 2023]

Objective: To understand the epidemiological characteristics of human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV) among acute respiratory infection (ARI) cases in 16 provinces of China from 2009 to 2023. Methods: The data of this study were collected from the ARI surveillance data from 16 provinces in China from 2009 to 2023, with a total of 28 278 ARI cases included in the study. The clinical specimens from ARI cases were screened for HRSV nucleic acid from 2009 to 2023, and differences in virus detection rates among cases of different age groups, regions, and months were analyzed. Results: A total of 28 278 ARI cases were enrolled from January 2009 to September 2023. The age of the cases ranged from<1 month to 112 years, and the age M (Q1, Q3) was 3 years (1 year, 9 years). Among them, 3 062 cases were positive for HRSV nucleic acid, with a total detection rate of 10.83%. From 2009 to 2019, the detection rate of HRSV was 9.33%, and the virus was mainly prevalent in winter and spring. During the Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the detection rate of HRSV fluctuated between 6.32% and 18.67%. There was no traditional winter epidemic peak of HRSV from the end of 2022 to the beginning of 2023, and an anti-seasonal epidemic of HRSV occurred from April to May 2023. About 87.95% (2 693/3 062) of positive cases were children under 5 years old, and the difference in the detection rate of HRSV among different age groups was statistically significant (P<0.001), showing a decreasing trend of HRSV detection rate with the increase of age (P<0.001). Among them, the HRSV detection rate (25.69%) was highest in children under 6 months. Compared with 2009-2019, the ranking of HRSV detection rates in different age groups changed from high to low between 2020 and 2023, with the age M (Q1, Q3) of HRSV positive cases increasing from 1 year (6 months, 3 years) to 2 years (11 months, 3 years). Conclusion: Through 15 years of continuous HRSV surveillance analysis, children under 5 years old, especially infants under 6 months old, are the main high-risk population for HRSV infection. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the prevalence and patterns of HRSV in China have changed.

Anlotinib Attenuates Liver Fibrosis by Regulating the Transforming Growth Factor β1/Smad3 Signaling Pathway

BACKGROUND

Hepatic stellate cell hyperactivation is a central link in liver fibrosis development, transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) is a key activator of HSCs.

AIMS

This study investigated whether anlotinib attenuates CCl4 induced liver fibrosis in mice and explored its antifibrotic mechanism.

METHODS

We used the human hepatic stellate cell line LX-2 for in vitro assays and used TGF-β1 to induce hepatic fibrosis in LX-2 cells. We analyzed cytotoxicity using a cell-counting kit-8 and transwell chambers to detect the migratory ability of LX-2 cells. Western blotting was used to detect the protein levels of collagen type I, α-smooth muscle actin, and p-Smad3. In addition, mice with CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis were used as in vivo models. Histopathological examination was performed using H&E staining, Masson's trichrome staining, and immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

Anlotinib significantly reversed TGF-β1-induced protein levels of Col I, α-SMA and p-Smad3 and inhibits migratory and proliferative abilities in vitro using LX-2 cells. CCl4 cause F4 grade (Ishak) hepatic fibrosis, liver inflammatory scores ranged from 12 to 14 (Ishak), a mean ALT measurement of 130 U/L and a mean measurement AST value of 119 U/L in mice. However, the CCl4-induced changes were markedly attenuated by anlotinib treatment, which returned to F2 grade (Ishak) hepatic fibrosis, liver inflammatory scores ranged from 4 to 6 (Ishak), a mean ALT measurement of 40 U/L and a mean measurement AST value of 56 U/L in mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that anlotinib-mediated suppression of liver fibrosis is related to the inhibition of TGF-β1 signaling pathway. Hepatic stellate cell hyper activation is a central link in liver fibrosis development, transforming growth factor β1 is a key activator of HSCs. Anlotinib is a multi-targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor that has similar targets to nintedanib, a clinically used anti-pulmonary fibrosis drug. Our study demonstrates an FDA-approved drug-anlotinib-that could prevent liver fibrosis and inflammation. Experiments in cell cultures and mice show that anlotinib can inhibit the activation of hepatic stellate cells by down-regulating the TGFβ1/smad3 pathway, thereby reversing liver fibrosis. In animal experiments, anlotinib showed protective effects on the CCl4-induced liver damage, including ameliorating liver inflammation, reversing liver fibrosis and reducing liver enzymes. This is a very good signal, anlotinib may be useful for halting or reversing the progression of liver fibrosis and could be employed in the development of novel therapeutic drugs for the management of chronic liver diseases.

Correlation between primary family caregiver identity and maternal depression risk in poor rural China

INTRODUCTION

Prenatal and postpartum depression are important public health challenges because of their long-term adverse impacts on maternal and neonatal health. This study investigated the risk of maternal depression among pregnant and postpartum women in poor rural China, along with the correlation between primary family caregiver identity and maternal depression risk.

METHODS

Pregnant women and new mothers were randomly selected from poor rural villages in the Qinba Mountains area in Shaanxi. Basic demographic information was collected regarding the women and their primary family caregivers. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale was used to identify women at risk of depression, and the Perceived Social Support Scale was used to evaluate perceived family support.

RESULTS

This study included 220 pregnant women and 473 new mothers. The mean proportions of women at risk of prenatal and postpartum depression were 19.5% and 18.6%, respectively. Regression analysis showed that identification of the baby's grandmother as the primary family caregiver was negatively correlated with maternal depression risk (β=-0.979, 95% confidence interval [CI]=-1.946 to -0.012, P=0.047). However, the husband's involvement in that role was not significantly correlated with maternal depression risk (β=-0.499, 95% CI=-1.579 to 0.581, P=0.363). Identification of the baby's grandmother as the primary family caregiver was positively correlated with family support score (β=0.967, 95% CI=-0.062 to 1.996, P=0.065).

CONCLUSION

Prenatal and postpartum depression are prevalent in poor rural China. The involvement of the baby's grandmother as the primary family caregiver may reduce maternal depression risk, but the husband's involvement in that role has no effect.

Pradefovir Treatment in Patients With Chronic Hepatitis B: Week 24 Results From a Multicenter, Double-Blind, Randomized, Noninferiority, Phase 2 Trial

BACKGROUND

Pradefovir is a liver-targeted prodrug of adefovir, a nucleoside/nucleotide analogue with antiviral activity against hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA polymerase. This phase 2 study compared the efficacy and safety of oral pradefovir (30, 45, 60, or 75 mg) versus tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF; 300 mg) and aimed to identify the most appropriate dose of pradefovir for the forthcoming phase 3 study.

METHODS

Treatment-naive and experienced (not on treatment >6 months) patients with chronic hepatitis B were eligible.

RESULTS

A total of 240 participants were randomized and treated in the study (48 per group). Approximately 80% were hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) positive, and 10% had liver cirrhosis. The reductions from baseline in HBV DNA levels achieved at week 24 were 5.40, 5.34, 5.33, and 5.40 log10 IU/mL, with pradefovir doses of 30-, 45-, 60-, and 75-mg, respectively, compared with 5.12 log10 IU/mL with TDF. However, HBeAg loss was attained by more participants who received 45-, 60-, or 75-mg pradefovir than by those receiving TDF (12%, 6%, and 9% vs 3%). The TDF group exhibited a more significant increase in serum creatinine than the pradefovir 30- and 45-mg groups, and serum phosphate levels were comparable among all groups. Most adverse events (AEs) were mild (grade 1). No treatment-related severe AEs were reported. Overall, AEs and laboratory abnormalities were comparable to those in the TDF group.

CONCLUSIONS

Pradefovir and TDF exhibited comparable reductions in HBV DNA levels. All treatments were safe and well tolerated.

CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION

NCT00230503 and China Drug Trials CTR2018042.

[Research progress of C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 12 and its receptor signaling axis in the regulation of pulmonary fibrosis]

Pulmonary fibrosis is an irreversible interstitial lung disease characterized by lung parenchyma remodeling and collagen deposition. In recent years, the incidence and mortality of pulmonary fibrosis caused by unknown causes have risen. However, its pathogenesis is still unclear. C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12)/C-X-C chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4)/CXCR7 signal axis plays a critical regulatory role in pulmonary fibrosis disease. In addition, the signal axis has been shown to regulate recruitment and migration of circulating fibrocytes, mesenchymal stem cells to the damage lung tissue, the migration of endothelial cells, the proliferation and differentiation of fibroblasts and endothelial cells, which further affects the occurrence and progression of pulmonary fibrosis. In this review, we summarized the pathogenesis and treatment research progress of CXCL12 and its receptor CXCR4/CXCR7 in the occurrence and progression of pulmonary fibrosis.

MiR-571 affects the development and progression of liver fibrosis by regulating the Notch3 pathway

Exploring the expression of miR-571 in patients with liver fibrosis and its role in the progression of liver fibrosis. A total of 74 patients with liver fibrosis in our institution from September to December 2018 were collected for study, and the expression of miR-571, Notch3 and Jagged1 in patients with different progressions of liver fibrosis was determined by RT-PCR and Western blot analysis. Set up Notch3 up group and Notch3 down regulated group, RT-PCR and Western blot were used to determine the effect of Notch signaling on the expression of fibrogenic factors. CCK-8, cell scratch assays, Transwell assays, flow cytometry were used to determine the effect of miR-571 on LX-2 proliferation, migration, apoptosis in human stem stellate cells, and RT-PCR, Western blot assays were performed to determine the effect of miR-571 on the Notch3 signaling pathway and the expression of profibrogenic factors. miR-571, Notch3 and Jagged1 are up-regulated in patients with liver fibrosis and is associated with the progression of liver fibrosis. Notch3 signaling pathway can promote the expression of fibroblast in human hepatic stellate cells; miR-571 can inhibit the apoptosis of human hepatic stellate cells, promote cell proliferation and migration; up regulation of miR-571 can promote the expression of Notch3 and Jagged1, and up-regulation of miR-571 also promoted the expression of related fibroblasts. MiR-571 can promote the activation of human stem cell stellate cells and the expression of fibroblast related factors through Notch3 signaling pathway.

Platycodin D alleviates liver fibrosis and activation of hepatic stellate cells by regulating JNK/c-JUN signal pathway

Liver fibrosis is involved in the progression of most chronic liver diseases. Even though we have made a huge progress in order to understand the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis, however, there is still a lack of productive treatments. Being a traditional Chinese medicine, Platycodin D (PD), an oleanane kind of triterpenoid saponin has been put to extensive use for treating different kinds of illnesses that include not just anti-nociceptive, but also antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer for thousands of years. Nonetheless, there has been no clarification made for its effects on the progression of liver fibrosis. In this manner, we carried out in vitro studies for the purpose of investigating the anti-fibrosis impact of PD. Activation of hepatic stellate cells was evaluated by means of the detection of the proliferation of HSCs and the expression of specific proteins. We discovered the fact that PD had the potential of activating HSCs. Thereafter, we detected the apoptosis and autophagy of the HSCs; as the results suggested, PD induced apoptosis and autophagy of the HSCs. It augmented the expression level of apoptotic proteins that included Bax, Cytochrome C (cyto-c), cleaved caspase3 and cleaved caspase9, in addition to the autophagy relevant proteins, for instance, LC3II, beclin1, Atg5 and Atg9. Further research was carried out for the investigation of the underlying molecular mechanism, and discovered that PD promoted the phosphorylation of JNK and c-Jun. Treating the JNK inhibitor P600125 inhibited the effect of PD, confirming the impact of PD on the regulation of JNK/c-Jun pathway. Thus, we speculated that PD alleviates liver fibrosis and activation of hepatic stellate via promoting phosphorylation of JNK and c-Jun and further altering the autophagy along with apoptosis of HSCs.

Bone morphogenetic protein-7 represses hepatic stellate cell activation and liver fibrosis via regulation of TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Liver fibrosis is a refractory disease whose persistence can eventually induce cirrhosis or even liver cancer. Early liver fibrosis is reversible by intervention. As a member of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) superfamily, bone morphogenetic protein 7 (BMP7) has anti-liver fibrosis functions. However, little is known about BMP7 expression changes and its potential regulatory mechanism as well as the relationship between BMP7 and TGF-β during liver fibrosis. In addition, the mechanism underlying the anti-liver fibrosis function of BMP7 needs to be further explored.

AIM

To investigate changes in the dynamic expression of BMP7 during liver fibrosis, interactions between BMP7 and TGF-β1, and possible mechanisms underlying the anti-liver fibrosis function of BMP7.

METHODS

Changes in BMP7 expression during liver fibrosis and the interaction between BMP7 and TGF-β1 in mice were observed. Exogenous BMP7 was used to treat mouse primary hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) to observe its effect on activation, migration, and proliferation of HSCs and explore the possible mechanism underlying the anti-liver fibrosis function of BMP7. Mice with liver fibrosis received exogenous BMP7 intervention to observe improvement of liver fibrosis by using Masson’s trichrome staining and detecting the expression of the HSC activation indicator alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and the collagen formation associated protein type I collagen (Col I). Changes in the dynamic expression of BMP7 during liver fibrosis in the human body were further observed.

RESULTS

In the process of liver fibrosis induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) in mice, BMP7 protein expression first increased, followed by a decrease; there was a similar trend in the human body. This process was accompanied by a sustained increase in TGF-β1 protein expression. In vitro experiment results showed that TGF-β1 inhibited BMP7 expression in a time- and dose-dependent manner. In contrast, high doses of exogenous BMP7 inhibited TGF-β1-induced activation, migration, and proliferation of HSCs; this inhibitory effect was associated with upregulation of pSmad1/5/8 and downregulation of phosphorylation of Smad3 and p38 by BMP7. In vivo experiment results showed that exogenous BMP7 improved liver fibrosis in mice.

CONCLUSION

During liver fibrosis, BMP7 protein expression first increases and then decreases. This changing trend is associated with inhibition of BMP7 expression by sustained upregulation of TGF-β1 in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Exogenous BMP7 could selectively regulate TGF-β/Smad pathway-associated factors to inhibit activation, migration, and proliferation of HSCs and exert anti-liver fibrosis functions. Exogenous BMP7 has the potential to be used as an anti-liver fibrosis drug.

Correction: The role of AKT and FOXO3 in preventing ovarian toxicity induced by cyclophosphamide

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0201136.].

Blueberry, combined with probiotics, alleviates non-alcoholic fatty liver disease via IL-22-mediated JAK1/STAT3/BAX signaling

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most prevalent diseases worldwide. Blueberry, combined with probiotics (BP), might be a potential candidate for NAFLD treatment, due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic properties. Here, we investigated whether the anti-inflammatory cytokine, IL-22, was involved in the therapeutic process of BP, using cell and rat models of NAFLD. Results indicated that BP significantly reduced lipid droplets and triglyceride (TG) accumulation in NAFLD cells. However, when IL-22 was deficient, the lipid droplets and TG content were significantly increased. In vivo, the serum parameters and pathological degree of NAFLD rats were significantly improved by BP, while IL-22 silencing significantly abolished the BP effect. Immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, qRT-PCR, and western blotting showed that the NAFLD group expressed significantly lower levels of IL-22, JAK1, and STAT3, and higher levels of BAX, than the normal group. Furthermore, BP significantly elevated the levels of IL-22, JAK1 and STAT3, and reduced the level of BAX in NAFLD, while IL-22 silencing prevented BP from restoring the expression of JAK1, STAT3, and BAX. We conclude that IL-22 is vital for the therapeutic effect of BP, and acts via activation of JAK1/STAT3 signaling and inhibition of the apoptosis factor BAX, which makes IL-22 a promising target for therapy of NAFLD.

Ferulic acid attenuates liver fibrosis and hepatic stellate cell activation via inhibition of TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway

Purpose

Liver fibrosis is a worldwide health issue. Development of effective new drugs for treatment of this disease is of great importance. This study investigated the therapeutic effects of ferulic acid on liver fibrosis in vitro and in vivo.

Materials and methods

Human hepatic stellate cell line (HSC) LX-2 was used for in vitro assays. Transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) was used to induce hepatic fibrosis in LX-2 cells. Western blot was used to detect protein levels of collagen I, fibronectin, α-smooth muscle actin (SMA), p-Smad2, p-Smad3, p-p38, and p-JNK. Gene expression was measured by RT-qPCR. Fluorescence staining was used to determine localization of Smad4. CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis in SD rats was used as an in vivo model. Histological features were detected by hematoxylin and eosin staining. Levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), hexadecenoic acid (HA), and hydroxyproline (Hyp) were measured by ELISA.

Results

TGF-β1 treatment significantly increased levels of collagen I, fibronectin, α-SMA, p-Smad2, p-Smad3, and Smad4 in LX-2 cells. Ferulic acid improved TGF-β1-induced hepatic fibrosis via regulation of the TGF-β1/Smad pathway. Consistent with in vitro data, CCl4 caused severe hepatic fibrosis in SD rats, as determined by ALT, AST, HA, and Hyp upregulation. Protein levels of p-Smad2 and p-Smad3 in liver tissues were significantly increased following treatment with CCl4. All CCL4-induced changes were markedly attenuated by ferulic acid treatment.

Conclusion

Ferulic acid potently improved hepatic fibrosis via inhibition of the TGF-β1/Smad pathway in vitro and in vivo. These findings provided evidence for potential use of ferulic acid to treat or prevent liver fibrosis.

Thymosin-β4 Mediates Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation by Interfering with CircRNA-0067835/miR-155/FoxO3 Signaling Pathway

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are the primary cell type responsible for liver fibrosis. Our study proved that thymosin beta 4 (Tβ4) has anti-fibrogenic effects in HSCs through PI3K/AKT pathway. However, the underlying mechanisms are not fully elucidated. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) play important roles in fine-tuning gene expression and are often deregulated in cancers. However, the expression profile and clinical significance of in liver fibrosis is still unknown. Therefore, we hypothesize that Tβ4 influences circRNAs in liver fibrosis.

METHODS

Circular RNA microarray was conducted to identify Tβ4-related circRNAs. Pathway analysis and miRNA response elements analysis was conducted to predict the potential roles of differentially expressed circRNAs in liver fibrosis. CCK8 assays and flow cytometric assays were conducted to clarify the role of circRNA in liver fibrosis. Bioinformatics analysis and in vitro experiments were conducted to clarify the mechanism of circRNA-mediated gene regulation in liver fibrosis.

RESULTS

A total of 644 differentially expressed circRNAs were identified between the Tβ4-depleted LX-2 cells and the control LX2 cells. The expression of circRNA-0067835 was significantly increased in the Tβ4-depleted LX-2 cells compared with control. Knockdown of circRNA-0067835 observably decreased LX-2 cell proliferation by causing G1 arrest and promoting apoptosis. Bioinformatics online programs predicted that circRNA-0067835 acted as miR-155 sponge to regulate FOXO3a expression, which was validated using luciferase reporter assay.

CONCLUSION

Our experiments showed that circRNA-0067835 regulated liver fibrosis progression by acting as a sponge of miR-155 to promote FOXO3a expression, indicating that circRNA-0067835 may serve as a potential therapeutic target for patients with liver fibrosis.

The role of AKT and FOXO3 in preventing ovarian toxicity induced by cyclophosphamide

Cyclophosphamide (CTX) has immunosuppressive effects and has been wildly used as one anti-cancer drug in clinical. Significant toxicity has been noticed particularly in the reproductive system. CTX promotes the maturation of ovarian follicles, decreases follicular reserve, and ultimately lead to ovarian failure or even premature ovarian failure (POF). The placental extract (HPE) has been shown to have some beneficial impact on reproductive system; however, little is known regarding to the effect of HPE on protecting CTX-induced ovarian injury and the mechanism involved. Whether human placental extracts (HPE) has a protective effect on CTX-induced toxicity on ovarian was studied by using a CTX-induced ovarian injury animal model. The effects of HEP on histopathology, the number of atretic follicles, the weight of the ovary, serum hormone levels, and apoptosis in granulosa cells were studied in mice with CTX or control vehicle. Our results have demonstrated that HPE inhibited p-Rictor, reduced the expression of Bad, Bax and PPAR, and activated Akt and Foxo3a (increased their phosphorylation). Mice treated with HPE showed higher ovarian weight, lower number of atretic follicles, higher serum levels of the hormones E2 and progesterone, and lower apoptosis and serum levels of LH and FSH in granulosa cells, than that in the control animal group. Our data show that ovarian injury can be attenuated by HPE. HPE likely protects follicular granulosa cells from undergoing significant apoptosis and reduce atresia follicle formation, therefore, alleviates CTX-induced ovarian injury.

Indirect neonatal hyperbilirubinemia in hospitalized neonates on the Thai-Myanmar border: a review of neonatal medical records from 2009 to 2014

BACKGROUND

Indirect neonatal hyperbilirubinemia (INH) is a common neonatal disorder worldwide which can remain benign if prompt management is available. However there is a higher morbidity and mortality risk in settings with limited access to diagnosis and care. The manuscript describes the characteristics of neonates with INH, the burden of severe INH and identifies factors associated with severity in a resource-constrained setting.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective evaluation of anonymized records of neonates hospitalized on the Thai-Myanmar border. INH was defined according to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines as 'moderate' if at least one serum bilirubin (SBR) value exceeded the phototherapy threshold and as 'severe' if above the exchange transfusion threshold.

RESULTS

Out of 2980 records reviewed, 1580 (53%) had INH within the first 14 days of life. INH was moderate in 87% (1368/1580) and severe in 13% (212/1580). From 2009 to 2011, the proportion of severe INH decreased from 37 to 15% and the mortality dropped from 10% (8/82) to 2% (7/449) coinciding with the implementation of standardized guidelines and light-emitting diode (LED) phototherapy. Severe INH was associated with: prematurity (< 32 weeks, Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) 3.3; 95% CI 1.6-6.6 and 32 to 37 weeks, AOR 2.2; 95% CI 1.6-3.1), Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PD) (AOR 2.3; 95% CI 1.6-3.3), potential ABO incompatibility (AOR 1.5; 95% CI 1.0-2.2) and late presentation (AOR 1.8; 95% CI 1.3-2.6). The risk of developing severe INH and INH-related mortality significantly increased with each additional risk factor.

CONCLUSION

INH is an important cause of neonatal hospitalization on the Thai-Myanmar border. Risk factors for severity were similar to previous reports from Asia. Implementing standardized guidelines and appropriate treatment was successful in reducing mortality and severity. Accessing to basic neonatal care including SBR testing, LED phototherapy and G6PD screening can contribute to improve neonatal outcomes.

Tristetraprolin Down-Regulation Contributes to Persistent TNF-Alpha Expression Induced by Cigarette Smoke Extract through a Post-Transcriptional Mechanism

Rationale

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) is a potent pro-inflammatory mediator and its expression is up-regulated in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Tristetraprolin (TTP) is implicated in regulation of TNF-α expression; however, whether TTP is involved in cigarette smoke-induced TNF-α expression has not been determined.

Methods

TTP expression was examined by western blot analysis in murine alveolar macrophages and alveolar epithelial cells challenged without or with cigarette smoke extract (CSE). TNF-α mRNA stability, and the decay of TNF-α mRNA, were determined by real-time quantitative RT-PCR. TNF-α protein levels were examined at the same time in these cells. To identify the molecular mechanism involved, a construct expressing the human beta-globin reporter mRNA containing the TNF-α 3’-untranslated region was generated to characterize the TTP targeted site within TNF-α mRNA.

Results

CSE induced TTP down-regulation in alveolar macrophages and alveolar epithelial cells. Reduced TTP expression resulted in significantly increased TNF-α mRNA stability. Importantly, increased TNF-α mRNA stability due to impaired TTP function resulted in significantly increased TNF-α levels in these cells. Forced TTP expression abrogated the increased TNF-α mRNA stability and expression induced by CSE. By using the globin reporter construct containing TNF-α mRNA 3’-untranslated region, the data indicate that TTP directly targets the adenine- and uridine-rich region (ARE) of TNF-α mRNA and negatively regulates TNF-α expression at the post-transcriptional level.

Conclusion

The data demonstrate that cigarette smoke exposure reduces TTP expression and impairs TTP function, resulting in significantly increased TNF-α mRNA stability and excessive TNF-α expression in alveolar macrophages and epithelial cells. The data suggest that TTP is a novel post-transcriptional regulator and limits excessive TNF-α expression and inflammatory response induced by cigarette smoke.

Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of CIPK genes in diploid cottons

Calcineurin B-like protein-interacting protein kinase (CIPK) plays a key regulatory role in the growth, development, and stress resistance of plants by combining with phosphatase B subunit-like protein. In the present study, CIPK genes were identified in the whole genomes of diploid cottons and their sequences were subjected to bioinformatic analyses. The results demonstrated that the CIPK gene family was unevenly distributed in two diploid cotton genomes. Forty-one CIPKs were identified in the D genome, mainly located on chromosomes 9 and 10, whereas thirty-nine CIPKs were identified in the A genome, mainly located on chromosomes 8 and 11. Based on the gene structures, CIPKs in cotton could be classified into two types: one that is intron-rich and the other that has few introns. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the CIPK gene family members in cotton had close evolutionary relationships with those of the dicotyledonous plants, such as Arabidopsis thaliana and poplar. The analysis of transcriptome sequence data demonstrated that there were differences in gene expression in different tissues, indicating that the expression of the CIPKs in cotton had spatio-temporal specificity. The expression analysis of CIPKs under abiotic stresses (drought, salt, and low temperature) in different tissues at trefoil stage demonstrated that these stresses induced the expression of CIPKs.

Augmenter of liver regeneration (ALR) restrains concanavalin A-induced hepatitis in mice

Augmenter of liver regeneration (ALR), produced and released by hepatocytes, has cytoprotective and immunoregulatory effects on liver injury, and has been used in many experimental applications. However, little attention has been paid to the effects of ALR on concanavalin A (Con A)-induced hepatitis. The purpose of this paper is to explore the protective effect of ALR on Con A-induced hepatitis and elucidate potential mechanisms. We found that the ALR pretreatment evidently reduced the amount of ALT and AST in serum. In addition, pro-inflammatory cytokines, chemokines and iNOS were suppressed. ALR pretreatment also decreased CD4(+), CD8(+) T cell infiltration in liver. Besides, we observed that ALR pretreatment was capable of suppressing the activation of several signaling pathways in Con A-induced hepatitis. These findings suggest that ALR can obviously weaken Con A-induced hepatitis and ALR has some certain immune regulation function.

Focal Adhesion Kinase Regulates Fibroblast Migration via Integrin beta-1 and Plays a Central Role in Fibrosis

Lung fibrosis is a major medical problem for the aging population worldwide. Fibroblast migration plays an important role in fibrosis. Focal Adhesion Kinase (FAK) senses the extracellular stimuli and initiates signaling cascades that promote cell migration. This study first examined the dose and time responses of FAK activation in human lung fibroblasts treated with platelet derived growth factor BB (PDGF-BB). The data indicate that FAK is directly recruited by integrin β1 and the subsequent FAK activation is required for fibroblast migration on fibronectin. In addition, the study has identified that α5β1 and α4β1 are the major integrins for FAK-mediated fibroblast migration on fibronect. In contrast, integrins αvβ3, αvβ6, and αvβ8 play a minor but distinct role in fibroblast migration on fibronectin. FAK inhibitor significantly reduces PDGF-BB stimulated fibroblast migration. Importantly, FAK inhibitor protects bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis in mice. FAK inhibitor blocks FAK activation and significantly reduces signaling cascade of fibroblast migration in bleomycin-challenged mice. Furthermore, FAK inhibitor decreases lung fibrotic score, collagen accumulation, fibronectin production, and myofibroblast differentiation in in bleomycin-challenged mice. These data demonstrate that FAK mediates fibroblast migration mainly via integrin β1. Furthermore, the findings suggest that targeting FAK signaling is an effective therapeutic strategy against fibrosis.

[Natural clearance of hepatitis C virus in 96 patients with infection acquired by blood transfusion from a single donor in Guizhou]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the clinical features and rate of natural viral clearance in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection acquired by blood transfusion from a single donor.

METHODS

Ninety-six patients who acquired HCV infection between January 1998 and December 2002, upon receipt of donated blood from a single infected individual in Guizhou,were included in this retrospective cross-sectional study. Patients were clinically assessed to determine levels of anti-HCV antibodies, HCV RNA and biochemical indicators of liver function,as well as features of liver structure (by abdominal B ultrasonography and elastography). HCV genetic testing was used to determine the virus genotype. Measurement data were expressed as mean ± standard deviation. Count data were analyzed by the x² test,with P less than 0.05 indicating statistical significance.

RESULTS

All 96 patients tested positive for antiHCV antibodies. The majority of patients (70%; 34:33 male:female) had HCV RNA more than or equal to 1.0 * 103 copies/ml. All patients carried the same HCV genotype as the single blood donor:genotype lb. The overall rate of natural HCV clearance was 30.2%. but males had a significantly lower rate (19.0% (8/42) vs. females:38.9% (21/54);x²=4.41,P=0.023) as did older patients (more than 40 years-old:16.1% (5/31) vs .less than or equal to 40 years-old:36.9% (24/65);x²=4.30,P=0.028). The overall rate of chronic HCV infection (CHC) was 69.8%,but the rate was significantly lower in younger patients (less than or equal to 40 years-old:63.1% (41/65) vs. more than 40 years-old:83.9% (26/31);x²=6.67,P=0.028). Among the 67 patients with CHC,12 had symptoms of mild weakness,anorexia and abdominal distention,11 had elevated serum alanine aminotransferase (116.25 +/- 24.65 U/L) and stage 3 or 4 fibrosis (liver elasticity values more than or equal to 5.1 kPa),and three had mildly abnormal serum bilirubin (32.56 ± 5.28 mumol/L). Fifteen patients showed signs of chronic hepatitis and one patient showed signs of cirrhosis by abdominal B ultrasonography. None of the patients showed signs of hepatocellular carcinoma.

CONCLUSION

The course of blood transfusion acquired HCV infection is largely unknown and natural viral clearance rate may be associated with sex-and age-related factors.

Effect of Danshao Huaxian capsule on Gremlin and bone morphogenetic protein-7 expression in hepatic fibrosis in rats

AIM: To observe the effect of Danshao Huaxian capsule (DHC) on the expression of Gremlin and bone morphogenetic protein-7 (BMP-7) in the liver of hepatic fibrosis rats.

METHODS: A total of 75 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into a normal control group (A), a CCl₄-induced hepatic fibrosis model group (B), a natural recovery group (C), a low-dose DHC-treated group (D), and a high-dose DHC-treated group (E), with 15 rats in each group. Liver fibrosis was induced by subcutaneous injections of carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) and a high-lipid/low-protein diet for 8 wk, except for the rats in group A. Then, the rats in the two DHC-treated groups were administered 0.5 and 1.0 g/kg DHC by gastrogavage once per day for 8 successive weeks, respectively. By the end of the experiment, the level of transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) in the liver homogenate was determined by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The mRNA and protein expression of Gremlin and BMP-7 in the liver tissue was determined by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction, an immunohistochemical assay, and Western blot analysis.

RESULTS: Compared with group A, the level of TGF-β1 and the mRNA and protein expression of Gremlin were significantly higher in group B (TGF-β1: 736.30 ± 24.40 μg/g vs 284.20 ± 18.32 μg/g, P < 0.01; mRNA of Gremlin: 80.40 ± 5.46 vs 49.83 ± 4.20, P < 0.01; positive protein expression rate of Gremlin: 38.46% ± 1.70% vs 3.83% ± 0.88%, P < 0.01; relative protein expression of Gremlin: 2.81 ± 0.24 vs 0.24 ± 0.06, P < 0.01), and the mRNA and protein expression of BMP-7 was significantly lower in group B (mRNA: 54.00 ± 4.34 vs 93.99 ± 7.03, P < 0.01; positive protein expression rate: 28.97% ± 3.14% vs 58.29% ± 6.02, P < 0.01; relative protein expression: 0.48 ± 0.31 vs 1.05 ± 0.12, P < 0.01). Compared with groups B and C, the degree of hepatic fibrosis was significantly improved, and the level of TGF-β1 and the mRNA and protein expression of Gremlin were significantly lowered in the two DHC-treated groups (TGF-β1: 523.14 ± 21.29 μg/g, 441.86 ± 23.18 μg/g vs 736.30 ± 24.40 μg/g, 651.13 ± 15.75 μg/g, P < 0.01; mRNA of Gremlin: 64.86 ± 2.83, 55.82 ± 5.39 vs 80.40 ± 5.46, 70.37 ± 4.01, P < 0.01; positive protein expression rate of Gremlin: 20.78% ± 1.60%, 17.43% ± 2.02% vs 38.46% ± 1.70%, 29.50% ± 2.64%, P < 0.01; relative protein expression of Gremlin: 1.95 ± 0.26, 1.65 ± 0.20 vs 2.81 ± 0.24, 2.22 ± 0.63, P < 0.01), and the mRNA and protein expression of BMP-7 was higher in the two DHC-treated groups (mRNA: 73.52 ± 4.56, 81.78 ± 5.38 vs 54.00 ± 4.34, 62.28 ± 4.51, P < 0.01; positive protein expression rate: 41.44% ± 4.77%, 47.49% ± 4.59% vs 28.97% ± 3.14%, 35.85% ± 3.50%, P < 0.01; relative protein expression: 0.71 ± 0.06, 0.81 ± 0.07 vs 0.48 ± 0.31, 0.60 ± 0.37, P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION: The therapeutic mechanism of DHC for hepatic fibrosis in rats may be associated with inhibition of the expression of Gremlin and up-regulation of the expression of BMP-7.

[Effects of diterpene phenol extract of Rosmarinus officinalis on TGFbeta1 and mRNA expressions of its signaling pathway molecules in the lung tissue of pulmonary fibrosis rats]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the regulative mechanism of the diterpene phenol extract of Rosmarinus Officinalis (DERO) on the imbalance of collagen metabolism of the lung tissue in pulmonary fibrosis rats.

METHODS

Fifty healthy Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into the normal saline group (NS), the bleomycin-induced lung injury group (BLM), the low dose DERO group (at the daily dose of 50 mg/kg), the moderate dose DERO group (at the daily dose of 100 mg/kg), and the high dose DERO group (at the daily dose of 200 mg/kg), 10 in each group (abbreviated as DERO 1, 2, 3, respectively). The pulmonary fibrosis rat model was prepared by disposable intratracheal instillation of bleomycin. DERO was administered by gastrogavage as intervention during the repairing process of lung injury. On the morning of the 29th day, the rats' lung tissue was extracted. The karyocyte number, collagen protein, type I collagen (collagen I) and transforming growth factor-beta type II receptor (TGFbetaR II), Smad4 mRNA expressions were semi-quantitatively determined using tissue microarray, HE staining, collagen fiber dyeing, immunohistochemical assay, and in situ hybridization. Using real-time fluorescent quantification RT-PCR, the mRNA expression of transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1) were detected.

RESULTS

Compared with the NS group, the collagen deposition of the lung tissue was obvious and the inflammatory infiltration was more severe in the BLM group (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). There was no statistical difference in the aforesaid 4 indices between the DERO1 group and the BLM group (P > 0.05). The collagen deposition and the inflammatory infiltration were obviously alleviated in the DERO2 and DERO3 groups (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). Compared with the NS group, the mRNA expressions of collagen-I, TGF-beta1 R II, Smad4, and TGF-beta1 were obviously up-regulated in the BLM group (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). Compared with the BLM group, the aforesaid four indices were not statistically changed in the DERO1 group (P > 0.05). But the mRNA expressions of collagen-I, TGF-beta1 R II, Smad4, and TGF-beta1 were obviously downregulated in the DERO2 and DERO3 groups (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). But the down-regulation of Smad4 expression was not obvious in the DERO2 and the DERO3 groups (P > 0.05). Compared with the DERO1 group, the mRNA expressions of collagen-I, TGF-beta1, R II, TGFbeta1 were all obviously lower in the DERO2 and the DERO3 groups (P < 0.05). But there was no statistical difference in the aforesaid 4 indices between the DERO2 group and the DERO3 group (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

DERO could regulate imbalanced collagen metabolism of pulmonary fibrosis. It could inhibit excessive deposition of collagen fibers, especially excessive deposition of collagen- I. Its mechanisms might be realized by inhibiting up-regulation of TGF-beta1 and TGFbetaR II mRNA expressions, thus interfering the activation of TGF-beta-Smad signaling pathway on target genes, especially on type I procollagen target gene.

Global fire emissions and the contribution of deforestation, savanna, forest, agricultural, and peat fires (1997–2009)

Abstract. New burned area datasets and top-down constraints from atmospheric concentration measurements of pyrogenic gases have decreased the large uncertainty in fire emissions estimates. However, significant gaps remain in our understanding of the contribution of deforestation, savanna, forest, agricultural waste, and peat fires to total global fire emissions. Here we used a revised version of the Carnegie-Ames-Stanford-Approach (CASA) biogeochemical model and improved satellite-derived estimates of area burned, fire activity, and plant productivity to calculate fire emissions for the 1997–2009 period on a 0.5° spatial resolution with a monthly time step. For November 2000 onwards, estimates were based on burned area, active fire detections, and plant productivity from the MODerate resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) sensor. For the partitioning we focused on the MODIS era. We used maps of burned area derived from the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Visible and Infrared Scanner (VIRS) and Along-Track Scanning Radiometer (ATSR) active fire data prior to MODIS (1997–2000) and estimates of plant productivity derived from Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR) observations during the same period. Average global fire carbon emissions according to this version 3 of the Global Fire Emissions Database (GFED3) were 2.0 Pg C year−1 with significant interannual variability during 1997–2001 (2.8 Pg C year−1 in 1998 and 1.6 Pg C year−1 in 2001). Globally, emissions during 2002–2007 were relatively constant (around 2.1 Pg C year−1) before declining in 2008 (1.7 Pg C year−1) and 2009 (1.5 Pg C year−1) partly due to lower deforestation fire emissions in South America and tropical Asia. On a regional basis, emissions were highly variable during 2002–2007 (e.g., boreal Asia, South America, and Indonesia), but these regional differences canceled out at a global level. During the MODIS era (2001–2009), most carbon emissions were from fires in grasslands and savannas (44%) with smaller contributions from tropical deforestation and degradation fires (20%), woodland fires (mostly confined to the tropics, 16%), forest fires (mostly in the extratropics, 15%), agricultural waste burning (3%), and tropical peat fires (3%). The contribution from agricultural waste fires was likely a lower bound because our approach for measuring burned area could not detect all of these relatively small fires. Total carbon emissions were on average 13% lower than in our previous (GFED2) work. For reduced trace gases such as CO and CH4, deforestation, degradation, and peat fires were more important contributors because of higher emissions of reduced trace gases per unit carbon combusted compared to savanna fires. Carbon emissions from tropical deforestation, degradation, and peatland fires were on average 0.5 Pg C year−1. The carbon emissions from these fires may not be balanced by regrowth following fire. Our results provide the first global assessment of the contribution of different sources to total global fire emissions for the past decade, and supply the community with an improved 13-year fire emissions time series.

Effects of blueberry on hepatic fibrosis and transcription factor Nrf2 in rats

AIM: To investigate the effects of blueberry on hepatic fibrosis and NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) transcription factor in rats.

METHODS: Forty-five male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into control group (A); CCl₄-induced hepatic fibrosis group (B); blueberry prevention group (C); Dan-shao-hua-xian capsule (DSHX) prevention group (D); and blueberry + DSHX prevention group (E). Liver fibrosis was induced in rats by subcutaneous injection of CCl₄ and a high-lipid/low-protein diet for 8 wk (except the control group). The level of hyaluronic acid (HA) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) in serum was examined. The activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in liver homogenates was determined. The degree of hepatic fibrosis was evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin and Masson staining. Expression of Nrf2 and NADPH quinone oxidoreductase 1 (Nqo1) was detected by real-time reversed transcribed-polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemical techniques, and western blotting.

RESULTS: Compared with group B, liver indices, levels of serum HA and ALT of groups C, D and E were reduced (liver indices: 0.038 ± 0.008, 0.036 ± 0.007, 0.036 ± 0.005 vs 0.054 ± 0.009, P < 0.05; HA: 502.33 ± 110.57 ng/mL, 524.25 ± 255.42 ng/mL, 499.25 ± 198.10 ng/mL vs 828.50 ± 237.83 ng/mL, P < 0.05; ALT: 149.44 ± 16.51 U/L, 136.88 ± 10.07 U/L, 127.38 ± 11.03 U/L vs 203.25 ± 31.62 U/L, P < 0.05), and SOD level was significantly higher, but MDA level was lower, in liver homogenates (SOD: 1.36 ± 0.09 U/mg, 1.42 ± 0.13 U/mg, 1.50 ± 0.15 U/mg vs 1.08 ± 0.19 U/mg, P < 0.05; MDA: 0.294 ± 0.026 nmol/mg, 0.285 ± 0.025 nmol/mg, 0.284 ± 0.028 nmol/mg vs 0.335 ± 0.056 nmol/mg, P < 0.05). Meanwhile, the stage of hepatic fibrosis was significantly weakened (P < 0.05). Compared with group A, the activity of GST liver homogenates and expression levels of Nrf2 and Nqo1 in group B were elevated (P < 0.05). The expression level of Nrf2 and Nqo1 in groups C, D, and E were increased as compared with group B, but the difference was not significant.

CONCLUSION: Blueberry has preventive and protective effects on CCl₄-induced hepatic fibrosis by reducing hepatocyte injury and lipid peroxidation. However, these effects may not be related to the activation of Nrf2 during long-term of CCl₄.

Efficacy of entecavir in nucleoside-naïve patients with hepatitis B e antigen-positive chronic hepatitis B

AIM: To investigate the efficacy and safety of entecavir in nucleoside-naïve patients with hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)-positive chronic hepatitis B.

METHODS: One hundred and one nucleoside-naïve patients with chronic hepatitis B were randomly divided into two groups. The entecavir (ENT) treatment group was given 0.5 mg of ENT once daily, while the adefovir dipivoxil (AD) treatment group was given 10 mg of AD once daily. The primary outcome measures assessed included serum hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA level, HBeAg seroconversion or normalization of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level.

RESULTS: At week 48 after the treatment, serum HBV DNA levels decreased in both the ENT and AD treatment groups. The percentage of patients showing a reduction greater than 103 copies/mL in HBV DNA titer was significantly higher in the ENT treatment group than in the AD treatment group (95.83% vs 60.38%, P < 0.001). The percentage of patients achieving normalization of ALT level was also significantly higher in the ENT treatment group than in the AD treatment group (52.08% vs 28.30%, P = 0.015). No significant difference was observed in the incidence rate of adverse events (77.08% vs 71.69%, P = 0.536) between the two groups. No HBeAg seroconversion was noted in both groups.

CONCLUSION: In nucleoside-naïve patients with HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B, entecavir is superior to adefovir dipivoxil in the suppression of serum HBV DNA level. Both two drugs have poor effects on HBeAg seroconversion.

[The effect of breviscapine on the pulmonary arterial pressure and the expression of Rho-kinase in pulmonary arterioles of hypoxic rats]

OBJECTIVE

To observe the effect of breviscapine on the pulmonary artery pressure and the Rho-kinase and Rho-kinase mRNA in pulmonary arterioles of rats treated with hypoxia, and therefore to explore the mechanisms of breviscapine on hypoxic pulmonary hypertension.

METHODS

Eighteen adult male SD rats were randomly divided into 3 groups. One group was exposed to air (normal group), the second group was exposed to isobaric hypoxia for 3 weeks (hypoxic group), and the third group was exposed to hypoxia for 3 weeks and treated with breviscapine (preventive group). Cardiac catheterization was used to measure the mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP). The heart was isolated, and the right ventricle (RV), left ventricle plus ventricular septum (LV + S) were weighed to calculate the ratio RV/(LV + S). The ratio of vascular wall thickness/vascular external diameter (WT%) and the ratio of vascular wall area/total vascular area (WA%) were measured by image analysis. The quantity of Rho-kinase and Rho-kinase mRNA in rat pulmonary arterioles were determined by immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization respectively.

RESULTS

The mPAP in the preventive group [(19.83 +/- 1.47) mm Hg, 1 mm Hg = 0.133 kPa] was significantly lower than that of the hypoxic group [(27.3 +/- 5.0) mm Hg], t = 4.28, P < 0.05. The RV/(LV + S) in the preventive group (0.29 +/- 0.03) was significantly lower than that in the hypoxic group (0.34 +/- 0.05, t = 2.39, P < 0.05). The WT% and WA% in the preventive group (25 +/- 5 and 45 +/- 5, respectively) were significantly lower than those in the hypoxic group (36 +/- 12 and 59 +/- 13, respectively, t = 4.89, 5.89, P < 0.05). The positive staining of ROCKI and ROCKII on pulmonary arterioles in the preventive group (1.18 +/- 0.10 and 1.30 +/- 0.12, respectively) were significantly lower than those in the hypoxic group (1.29 +/- 0.08 and 1.63 +/- 0.24, respectively, t = 3.90, 5.82, P < 0.05). The positive staining of ROCKI mRNA and ROCKII mRNA in the preventive group (1.23 +/- 0.13 and 1.22 +/- 0.06, respectively) were significantly lower than those in the hypoxic group (1.37 +/- 0.13 and 1.59 +/- 0.31, respectively, t = 3.94, 5.83, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Breviscapine was shown to prevent hypoxic pulmonary hypertension and decrease Rho-kinase and Rho-kinase mRNA.

[Effect of dragon's blood on TGF-beta/smads signal transduction molecule mRNA expression in the lung tissue of rats with pulmonary fibrosis]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of Dragon's Blood on the expression of TGF-beta signal transduction molecule TGFbetaR II or Smad4 mRNA in the lung tissue of rats with pulmonary fibrosis, and to evaluate the effect and its mechanism of Dragon's Blood on pulmonary fibrosis.

METHODS

30 SD rats were randomly divided into three groups: fibrosis model, treatment and normal control groups. In model group and treatment group, the pulmonary fibrous tissues were induced to form with the intratracheal injection of bleomycin (5 mg/kg). In normal control group, saline was given intratracheally. Dragon's Blood was administered intragastricly in treatment group with a dose of 180 mg/kg diluted in 2 mL saline while saline was given intragastricly to other two groups with same volume from day 2 till day 28 after modeling. All rats were sacrificed on the 29th day. The rat lung histopathology was examined with HE staining. In situ hybridization was used to detect the expressions of TGFbetaR II and Smad4 mRNAs in lung tissue, and the expression of collagen fibril I was examined by an immunohistochemical staining.

RESULTS

The inflammation cell counting in treatment group (12913.78 +/- 5640.12) was significant lower than that in model group (22243.60 +/- 5011.55, P < 0.01). The expression of pulmonary TGF/betaR II mRNA in treatment group was significant lower than that in model group (P < 0.01). In the Smad4 mRNA expression of lung tissue, there was no significant difference occurring between treatment group and model group (P > 0.05). The expression of collagen fibril I in the lung tissue of rats in treatment group was significant lower than that in model group (P < 0. 01).

CONCLUSION

Dragon's Blood can effectively reduce rats' pulmonary fibrosis, of which the mechanisms may be to inhibit the expression of TGFbetaR II mRNA in the lung tissue and thus to have the preventive effect on the excessive deposit of collagen fibril I.

[The role of bone morphogenetic protein-2 in the pathogenesis of hypoxic pulmonary hypertension]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the change of bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) in the lung tissues of rats with hypoxic pulmonary hypertension (HPH) and the role of BMP in the apoptosis of endothelial cells exposed to hypoxia.

METHODS

Twenty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into two groups, the HPH group and the control group, 10 rats in each group. The HPH model was established by placing the rats in an isobaric chamber [O(2) = (10 +/- 0.5)%] for three weeks. The distribution of BMP-2 in pulmonary tissues was observed by using streptavidin peroxidase method (SP), and the morphologic changes of pulmonary arterioles and the integrated optical density (IA) of BMP-2 were determined by image analysis. The effect of Noggin (a blocking agent of BMP) on the apoptosis of hypoxic cultivated human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) was assayed by flow cytometers.

RESULTS

Compared to the control group, pulmonary artery hypertension was evident in the hypoxic rats: mPAP was 16.3 +/- 0.5 mm Hg (1 mm Hg = 0.133 kPa) vs (29.5 +/- 0.9) mm Hg, P < 0.01. In the hypoxic rats, the pulmonary arteriolar wall thickened significantly; WT% was (16 +/- 5)% vs (27 +/- 7)%, and WA% was (54 +/- 11)% vs (80 +/- 8)%, both P < 0.01. The distribution of BMP-2 was mainly in the pulmonary arteriolar walls. The IA of BMP-2 significantly increased (6124 +/- 1199 vs 13 463 +/- 5755, P < 0.01), and showed a positive linear relationship to WT% and WA% respectively (WT%: r = 0.744 P < 0.01; WA%: r = 0.693 P < 0.01). Hypoxia induced apoptosis of HUVEC; the apoptosis rate was increased from 6% to 14% and 25% after exposure to hypoxia for 24 h and 48 h respectively. The HUVEC apoptosis rate induced by hypoxia was reduced by Noggin to 11.91% (24 h) and 15.01% (48 h).

CONCLUSIONS

Chronic hypoxia induced an increased expression of BMP-2, and a blocking agent of BMP inhibited the apoptosis of endothelial cells induced by hypoxia. It suggests that BMP may play an important role in the pathogenesis of hypoxic pulmonary hypertension.

[The structures elucidation of isodopharicin D and F]

Two new compounds were isolated from Isodon pharicus (Prain) Murata. Their structures were determined to be 3 alpha, 11 beta, 13 alpha-trihydroxy-entkaur-16-en-15-one (1), named isodopharicin D, and 11 beta, 13 alpha, 15 alpha-trihydroxy-entkaur-16-en-3 alpha-beta-D-glucoside (2), named isodopharicin F by chemical and spectral evidence.

Selective in vitro and in vivo binding of [(125)I]ADAM to serotonin transporters in rat brain

An improved iodinated tracer, ADAM (2-((2-((dimethylamino)methyl)- phenyl)thio)-5-iodophenylamine) for imaging serotonin transporters (SERT) with single photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT), was prepared and characterized. Scatchard analysis of saturation binding of [(125)I]ADAM to rat frontal cortical membrane homogenates gave a K(d) value of 0.15 +/- 0.03 nM and a B(max) value of 194 +/- 65 fmol/mg protein. Biodistribution of [(125)I]ADAM in rat brain after an iv injection showed a high specific binding in the regions of hypothalamus, cortex, striatum, and hippocampus, where SERT are concentrated and the specific binding peaked at 120-240 min postinjection [(hypothalamus-cerebellum)/cerebellum = 4.3 at 120 min post-iv injection]. Moreover, the specific hypothalamic uptake was blocked by pretreatment with SERT selective competing drugs, such as paroxetine and (+)McN5652, while other noncompeting drugs, such as ketanserin, raclopride, and methylphenidate, showed no effect. The radioactive material recovered from rat brain homogenates at 120 min after [(125)I]ADAM injection showed primarily the original compound (>90%), a good indication of in vivo stability in the brain tissues. Both male and female rats showed similar and comparable organ distribution pattern and regional brain uptakes. Ex vivo autoradiograms of rat brain sections (120 min after iv injection of [(125)I]ADAM) showed intense labeling in several regions (olfactory tubercle, lateral septal nucleus, hypothalamic and thalamic nuclei, globus pallidus, central gray, superior colliculus, substantia nigra, interpeduncular nucleus, dorsal and median raphes, and locus coerulus), which parallel known SERT density. These results strongly suggest that the novel tracer ADAM is superior to the congers (i.e., IDAM) reported previously. When labeled with I-123, ADAM will be an improved and useful SPECT imaging agent for SERT in the brain.

2-((2-((dimethylamino)methyl)phenyl)thio)-5-iodophenylamine (ADAM): an improved serotonin transporter ligand

Serotonin transporters (SERT) are target-sites for commonly used antidepressants, such as fluoxetine, paroxetine, sertraline, and so on. Imaging of these sites in the living human brain may provide an important tool to evaluate the mechanisms of action as well as to monitor the treatment of depressed patients. Synthesis and characterization of an improved SERT imaging agent, ADAM (2-((2-((dimethylamino)methyl)phenyl)thio)-5-iodophenylamine)(7) was achieved. The new compound, ADAM(7), displayed an extremely potent binding affinity toward SERT ( K(i)=0.013 nM, in membrane preparations of LLC-PK(1)-cloned cell lines expressing the specific monoamine transporter). ADAM(7) also showed more than 1,000-fold selectivity for SERT over norepinephrine transporter (NET) and dopamine transporter (DAT) ( K(i)=699 and 840 nM, for NET and DAT, respectively). The radiolabeled compound [(125)I]ADAM(7) showed an excellent brain uptake in rats (1.41% dose at 2 min post intravenous [IV] injection), and consistently displayed the highest uptake (between 60-240 min post IV injection) in hypothalamus, a region with the highest density of SERT. The specific uptake of [(125)I]ADAM(7) in the hypothalamus exhibited the highest target-to-nontarget ratio ([hypothalamus - cerebellum]/cerebellum was 3.97 at 120 min post IV injection). The preliminary imaging study of [(123)I]ADAM in the brain of a baboon by single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) at 180-240 min post IV injection indicated a specific uptake in midbrain region rich in SERT. These data suggest that the new ligand [(123)I]ADAM(7) may be useful for SPECT imaging of SERT binding sites in the human brain.

A novel serotonin transporter ligand: (5-iodo-2-(2-dimethylaminomethylphenoxy)-benzyl alcohol

The serotonin transporters (SERT) are the primary binding sites for selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, commonly used antidepressants such as fluoxetine, sertraline, and paroxetine. Imaging of SERT with positron emission tomography and single photon emission computed tomography in humans would provide a useful tool for understanding how alterations of this system are related to depressive illnesses and other psychiatric disorders. In this article the synthesis and characterization of [(125)I]ODAM [(5-iodo-2-(2-dimethylaminomethylphenoxy)-benzyl alcohol, 9)] as an imaging agent in the evaluation of central nervous system SERT are reported. A new reaction scheme was developed for the preparation of compound 9, ODAM, and the corresponding tri-n-butyltin derivative 10. Upon reacting 10 with hydrogen peroxide and sodium[(125)I]iodide, the radiolabeled [(125)95%). In an initial binding study using cortical membrane homogenates of rat brain, ODAM displayed a good binding affinity with a value of K(i) = 2.8 +/- 0.88 nM. Using LLC-PK(1) cells specifically expressing the individual transporter (i.e. dopamine [DAT], norepinephrine [NET], and SERT, respectively), ODAM showed a strong inhibition on SERT (K(i) = 0.12 +/- 0.02 nM). Inhibition constants for the other two transporters were lower (K(i) = 3.9 +/- 0.7 microM and 20.0 +/- 1.9 nM for DAT and NET, respectively). Initial biodistribution study in rats after an intravenous (IV) injection of [(125)I]ODAM showed a rapid brain uptake and washout (2.03, 1.49, 0.79, 0.27, and 0.07% dose/organ at 2, 30, 60, 120, and 240 min, respectively). The hypothalamus region where the serotonin neurons are located exhibited a high specific uptake. Ratios of hypothalamus-cerebellum/cerebellum based on percent dose per gram of these two regions showed values of 0.35, 0. 86, 0.86, 0.63, and 0.34 at 2, 30, 60, 120, and 240 min, post-IV injection, respectively. The specific uptake in hypothalamus can be effectively blocked by pretreatment of known SERT ligands. The results suggest that this novel ligand displays desirable in vitro and in vivo properties as a potential SERT imaging agent.

A simplified method to determine [99mTc]TRODAT-1 in human plasma

[99mTc]TRODAT-1 is a useful imaging agent in evaluating changes in presynaptic dopamine transporters (DAT) for Parkinson's disease and other central nervous system (CNS) neurodegenerative diseases, for which a reduction of dopamine neurons is indicated. As part of an effort to establish a quantitative single-photon emission tomography (SPECT) procedure for imaging CNS DAT, measurement of nonmetabolized [99mTc]TRODAT-1 in human plasma was investigated. After an intravenous injection of [99mTc]TRODAT-1, there are three possible radioactive components in human plasma: hydrophilic compounds (pertechnetate, etc.), lipophilic metabolite(s), and unchanged [99mTc]TRODAT-1. Based on the differences in lipophilicity of [99mTc]TRODAT-1 and its lipophilic metabolite [99mTc]BAT, a new quantitative method for measuring [99mTc]TRODAT-1 with a simple solvent extraction method was developed. Various organic solvents or mixtures of solvents were tested, among which cyclohexane gave the best extraction yield for [99mTc]TRODAT-1 (76.06 +/- 3.32%) with a low extraction for [99mTc]BAT (2.43 +/- 0.82%). Extractions of [99mTc]TRODAT-1 and [99mTc]BAT mixtures in different predetermined ratios to simulate the actual human plasma samples with cyclohexane from phosphate buffer (5 mM, pH 8.0) were evaluated. The experimentally obtained ratios were in good agreement with the theoretical ratios. To investigate further the possibility of replacing the previously established high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method with the new solvent extraction method for the clinical application, both HPLC and extraction methods were used side by side to determine the unchanged [99mTc]TRODAT-1 in human plasma samples during [99mTc]TRODAT-1/SPECT imaging studies. The results from four human subjects showed that both methods consistently produced similar values for unchanged [99mTc]TRODAT-1 in the plasma samples. This improved solvent extraction method provides an easy and reliable technique to quantify unchanged [99mTc]TRODAT-1 in human plasma, thus making the clinical application of this agent readily available for quantitation of the DAT binding sites in the brain by SPECT imaging.

Single-photon emission tomography imaging of serotonin transporters in the nonhuman primate brain with [(123)I]ODAM

We have described previously a selective serotonin transporter (SERT) radioligand, [(123)I]IDAM. We now report a similarly potent, but more stable IDAM derivative, 5-iodo-2-[2-[(dimethylamino)methyl]phenoxy]benzyl alcohol ([(123)I]ODAM). The imaging characteristics of this radioligand were studied and compared against [(123)I]IDAM. Dynamic sequences of single-photon emission tomography (SPET) scans were obtained on three female baboons after injection of 375 MBq of [(123)I]ODAM. Displacing doses (1 mg/kg) of the selective SERT ligand (+)McN5652 were administered 120 min after injection of [(123)I]ODAM. Total integrated brain uptake of [(123)I]ODAM was about 30% higher than [(123)I]IDAM. After 60-120 min, the regional distribution of tracer within the brain reflected the characteristic distribution of SERT. Peak specific binding in the midbrain occurred 120 min after injection, with an equilibrium midbrain to cerebellar ratio of 1. 50+/-0.08, which was slightly lower than the value for [(123)I]IDAM (1.80+/- 0.13). Both the binding kinetics and the metabolism of [(123)I]ODAM were slower than those of [(123)I]IDAM. Following injection of a competing SERT ligand, (+)McN5652, the tracer exhibited washout from areas with high concentrations of SERT, with a dissociation kinetic rate constant k(off)=0.0085+/-0.0028 min(-1) in the midbrain. Similar studies using nisoxetine and methylphenidate showed no displacement, consistent with its low binding affinity to norepinephrine and dopamine transporters, respectively. These results suggest that [(123)I]ODAM is suitable for selective SPET imaging of SERT in the primate brain, with higher uptake and slower kinetics and metabolism than [(123)I]IDAM, but also a slightly lower selectivity for SERT.

The reaction of thiolates with 2,3-dibromo-1-propanol revisited: application to the synthesis of bis(fattyalkylthio)propanols

This work compares two reaction schemes for preparing 2,3-bis(fattyalkylthio)-1-propanols for further synthetic adaptation as hydrophobic analogs of lung surfactant phosphatidylcholines. An attempt to prepare 2,3-bis(fattyalkylthio)-1-propanols based on the previously published methods of Bell and co-workers (B.R. Ganong, C.R. Loomis, Y.A. Hannun, R.M. Bell, 1986. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 83, 1184-1188; B.R. Ganong, R.M. Bell, 1987. Methods Enzymol. 141, 313-320; J.P. Walsh, L. Fahrner, R.M. Bell, 1990. J. Biol. Chem. 265, 4374-4381) was found to give the rearranged 1,3-bis(fattyalkylthio)-2-propanols as major products. As a reliable alternative, the reaction of ethyl 2,3-dibromopropionate with 2 equivalents of long chain sodium n-alkanethioates gave the corresponding ethyl 2,3-bis(n-alkylthio)propionates, which were then reduced with LiAlH4 to yield the desired 2,3-bis(fattyalkylthio)-1-propanols. Both 13C and 1H NMR spectroscopy were used to differentiate the two possible 1,3- and 2,3-dithio substituted alcohol products and to rigorously assign their structures.

Characterization of [(123)I]IDAM as a novel single-photon emission tomography tracer for serotonin transporters

Development of selective serotonin transporter (SERT) tracers for single-photon emission tomography (SPET) is important for studying the underlying pharmacology and interaction of specific serotonin reuptake site inhibitors, commonly used antidepressants, at the SERT sites in the human brain. In search of a new tracer for imaging SERT, IDAM (5-iodo-2-[[2-2-[(dimethylamino)methyl]phenyl]thio]benzyl alcohol) was developed. In vitro characterization of IDAM was carried out with binding studies in cell lines and rat tissue homogenates. In vivo binding of [(125)I]IDAM was evaluated in rats by comparing the uptakes in different brain regions through tissue dissections and ex vivo autoradiography. In vitro binding study showed that IDAM displayed an excellent affinity to SERT sites (K(i)=0.097 nM, using membrane preparations of LLC-PK(1) cells expressing the specific transporter) and showed more than 1000-fold of selectivity for SERT over norepinehrine and dopamine (expressed in the same LLC-PK(1) cells). Scatchard analysis of [(125)I]IDAM binding to frontal cortical membrane homogenates prepared from control or p-chloroamphetamine (PCA)-treated rats was evaluated. As expected, the control membranes showed a K(d) value of 0.25 nM+/-0.05 nM and a B(max) value of 272+/-30 fmol/ mg protein, while the PCA-lesioned membranes displayed a similar K(d), but with a reduced B(max) (20+/-7 fmol/ mg protein). Biodistribution of [(125)I]IDAM (partition coefficient =473; 1-octanol/buffer) in the rat brain showed a high initial uptake (2.44%dose at 2 min after i.v. injection) with the specific binding peaked at 60 min postinjection (hypothalamus-cerebellum/cerebellum =1.75). Ex vivo autoradiographs of rat brain sections (60 min after i.v. injection of [(125)I]IDAM) showed intense labeling in several regions (olfactory tubercle, lateral septal nucleus, hypothalamic and thalamic nuclei, globus pallidus, central gray, superior colliculus, substantia nigra, interpeduncular nucleus, dorsal and median raphes and locus coeruleus), which parallel known SERT density. This novel tracer has excellent characteristics for in vivo SPET imaging of SERT in the brain.