Protective Effects of Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Against Streptozotocin-Induced Alzheimer's Disease

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation under investigation for treatment of a wide range of neurological disorders. In particular, the therapeutic application of rTMS for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) is attracting attention. However, the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic efficacy of rTMS have not yet been elucidated, and few studies have systematically analyzed the stimulation parameters. In this study, we found that treatment with rTMS contributed to restoration of memory deficits by activating genes involved in synaptic plasticity and long-term memory. We evaluated changes in several intracellular signaling pathways in response to rTMS stimulation; rTMS treatment activated STAT, MAPK, Akt/p70S6K, and CREB signaling. We also systematically investigated the influence of rTMS parameters. We found an effective range of applications for rTMS and determined the optimal combination to achieve the highest efficiency. Moreover, application of rTMS inhibited the increase in cell death induced by hydrogen peroxide. These results suggest that rTMS treatment exerts a neuroprotective effect on cellular damage induced by oxidative stress, which plays an important role in the pathogenesis of neurological disorders. rTMS treatment attenuated streptozotocin (STZ)-mediated cell death and AD-like pathology in neuronal cells. In an animal model of sporadic AD caused by intracerebroventricular STZ injection, rTMS application improved cognitive decline and showed neuroprotective effects on hippocampal histology. Overall, this study will help in the design of stimulation protocols for rTMS application and presents a novel mechanism that may explain the therapeutic effects of rTMS in neurodegenerative diseases, including AD.

Characteristics of the Discoloration Switching Phenomenon of 4H-SiC Single Crystals Grown by PVT Method Using ToF-SIMS and Micro-Raman Analysis

The discoloration switching appearing in the initial and final growth stages of 4H-silicon carbide (4H-SiC) single crystals grown using the physical vapor transport (PVT) technique was investigated. This phenomenon was studied, investigating the correlation with linear-type micro-pipe defects on the surface of 4H-SiC single crystals. Based on the experimental results obtained using time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) and micro-Raman analysis, it was deduced that the orientation of the 4H-SiC c-axis causes an axial change that correlates with low levels of carbon. In addition, it was confirmed that the incorporation of additional elements and the concentrations of these doped impurity elements were the main causes of discoloration and changes in growth orientation. Overall, this work provides guidelines for evaluating the discoloration switching in 4H-SiC single crystals and contributes to a greater understanding of this phenomenon.

Fabrication and Characterization of Al2O3-Siloxane Composite Thermal Pads for Thermal Interface Materials

In this study, Al2O3-siloxane composite thermal pads were fabricated using a tape-casting technique, and the thermal conductivity effect of the Al2O3 nanoparticle powder synthesized using a flame fusion process on siloxane composite thermal pads was investigated. Furthermore, various case studies were implemented, wherein the synthesized Al2O3 nanoparticle powder was subjected to different surface treatments, including dehydration, decarbonization, and silylation, to obtain Al2O3-siloxane composite thermal pads with high thermal conductivity. The experimental results confirmed that the thermal conductivity of the Al2O3-siloxane composite pads improved when fabricated using surface-treated Al2O3 nanoparticle powder synthesized with an optimally spheroidized crystal structure compared to that produced using non-treated Al2O3 nanoparticle powder. Therefore, this study provides guidelines for fabricating Al2O3-siloxane composite thermal pads with high thermal conductivity in the field of thermal interface materials.

A Blend of Tamarindus Indica and Curcuma Longa Extracts Alleviates Monosodium Iodoacetate (MIA)-Induced Osteoarthritic Pain and Joint Inflammation in Rats

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

NXT15906F6 (TamaFlexTM) is a proprietary herbal composition containing Tamarindus indica seeds and Curcuma longa rhizome extracts. NXT15906F6 supplementation has been shown clinically effective in reducing knee joint pain and improving musculoskeletal functions in healthy and knee osteoarthritis (OA) subjects. The objective of the present study was to assess the possible molecular basis of the anti-OA efficacy of NXT15906F6 in a monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced model of OA in rats.

METHODS

Healthy male Sprague Dawley rats (age: 8-9 wk body weight, B.W.: 225-308 g (n = 12) were randomly assigned to one of the six groups, (a) vehicle control, (b) MIA control, (c) Celecoxib (10 mg/kg B.W.), (d) TF-30 (30 mg/kg B.W.), (e) TF-60 (60 mg/kg B.W.), and (f) TF-100 (100 mg/kg B.W.). OA was induced by an intra-articular injection of 3 mg MIA into the right hind knee joint. The animals received either Celecoxib or TF through oral gavage over 28 days. The vehicle control animals received intra-articular sterile normal saline.

RESULTS

Post-treatment, NXT15906F6 groups showed significant (p < 0.05) dose-dependent pain relief as evidenced by improved body weight-bearing capacity on the right hind limb. NXT15906F6 treatment also significantly reduced the serum tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α, p < 0.05) and nitrite (p < 0.05) levels in a dose-dependent manner. mRNA expression analyses revealed the up-regulation of collagen type-II (COL2A1) and down-regulation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-3, MMP-9 and MMP-13) in the cartilage tissues of NXT15906F6-supplemented rats. Cyclooxygenase-2 and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) protein expressions were down-regulated. Decreased immunolocalization of NF-κβ (p65) was observed in the joint tissues of NXT15906F6-supplemented rats. Furthermore, microscopic observations revealed that NXT15906F6 preserved MIA-induced rats' joint architecture and integrity.

CONCLUSION

NXT15906F6 reduces MIA-induced joint pain, inflammation, and cartilage degradation in rats.

Anti-inflammatory effects of Allium cepa L. peel extracts via inhibition of JAK-STAT pathway in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Allium cepa L. (A. cepa) is one of the oldest cultivated plants in the world. A. cepa has been used in traditional folk medicine to treat inflammatory disease in several regions, such as Palestine and Serbia. A. cepa peel has a higher content of flavonoids, such as quercetin, than the edible parts. These flavonoids alleviate inflammatory diseases. However, the anti-inflammatory effects of A. cepa peel extract-obtained using various extraction methods-and their underlying mechanisms require further investigation.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Although research to find safe anti-inflammatory substances in various natural products has been actively conducted for many years, it is important to continue identifying potential anti-inflammatory effects in natural materials. The purpose of this study was to investigate the ethnopharmacological properties of the A. cepa peel extract, whose efficacy when obtained through different extraction methods and underlying action mechanisms is not well known. The present study specifically aimed to observe the anti-inflammatory effects of the A. cepa peel extracts obtained using various extraction methods and the related detailed mechanisms of A. cepa peel extracts in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW264.7 cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The total flavonoid content of the A. cepa peel extracts was determined the diethylene glycol colorimetric method and measured using a calibration curve prepared using quercetin as a standard solution. The antioxidant activity was evaluated using the ABTS assay, and cytotoxicity was measured using the MTT assay. NO production was measured using Griess reagent. Protein levels were measured by western blotting, and mRNA expression was measured by RT-qPCR. Secreted cytokines were analyzed using ELISA or cytokine arrays. In the GSE160086 dataset, we calculated Z-scores for individual genes of interest and displayed using a heat map.

RESULTS

Of the three A. cepa peel extracts obtained using different extraction methods, the A. cepa peel 50% EtOH extract (AP50E) was the most effective at inhibiting LPS-induced nitric oxide (NO) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). Furthermore, AP50E significantly reduced the levels of pro-inflammation cytokines interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-27. Additionally, AP50E directly inhibited the Janus kinase-signaling transducer and activator of transcription (JAK-STAT) pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

These results showed that AP50E exhibited an anti-inflammatory effect in LPS-induced RAW264.7 mouse macrophages by directly inhibiting JAK-STAT signaling. Based on these findings, we propose AP50E as a potential candidate for the development of preventive or therapeutic agents against inflammatory diseases.

Search for Boosted Dark Matter in COSINE-100

We search for energetic electron recoil signals induced by boosted dark matter (BDM) from the galactic center using the COSINE-100 array of NaI(Tl) crystal detectors at the Yangyang Underground Laboratory. The signal would be an excess of events with energies above 4 MeV over the well-understood background. Because no excess of events are observed in a 97.7  kg·yr exposure, we set limits on BDM interactions under a variety of hypotheses. Notably, we explored the dark photon parameter space, leading to competitive limits compared to direct dark photon search experiments, particularly for dark photon masses below 4 MeV and considering the invisible decay mode. Furthermore, by comparing our results with a previous BDM search conducted by the Super-Kamionkande experiment, we found that the COSINE-100 detector has advantages in searching for low-mass dark matter. This analysis demonstrates the potential of the COSINE-100 detector to search for MeV electron recoil signals produced by the dark sector particle interactions.

Pharmacological anti-tumor effects of natural Chamaecyparis obtusa (siebold & zucc.) endl. Leaf extracts on breast cancer

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Chamaecyparis obtusa (C. obtusa, cypress species) is a plant that grows mainly in the temperate Northern Hemisphere and has long been used as a traditional anti-inflammatory treatment in East Asia. C. obtusa contains phytoncides, flavonoids, and terpenes, which have excellent anti-cancer effects and have been reported to prevent the progression of various cancers. However, the detailed mechanisms underlying the anti-cancer effects of C. obtusa extracts are unknown.

AIM OF THE STUDY

We sought to confirm the anti-cancer effects of C. obtusa leaf extracts and to reveal the mechanism of action, with the possibility of its application in the treatment or prevention of cancer.

MATERIAL &METHODS

The cytotoxicity of C. obtusa leaf extracts was confirmed using an MTT assay. Intracellular changes in protein levels were measured by immunoblotting, and mRNA levels were measured with qRT-PCR. Wound healing assay and transwell migration assay were used to evaluate the metastatic potential of breast cancer cells. The extract-induced apoptosis was observed using IncuCyte Annexin V Red staining analysis. A syngeneic breast cancer mouse model was established by injecting 4T1-Luc mouse breast cancer cells into the fat pad of female BALB/c mice, and the extract was administered orally. Luciferin solution was injected intraperitoneally to assess primary tumor development and metastasis by bioluminescence.

RESULTS

C. obtusa leaf extracts were extracted with boiling water, 70% EtOH, and 99% EtOH. Among the extracts, the 99% EtOH extract of C. obtusa leaf (CO99EL) most clearly inhibited the tyrosine phosphorylation of Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (pY-STAT3) in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells at a concentration of 25 and 50 μg/mL. In addition, CO99EL strongly inhibited not only endogenous pY-STAT3 levels but also IL-6-induced STAT3 activation in various types of cancer cells, including breast cancer. CO99EL inhibited metastatic potential by downregulating the expression of N-cadherin, fibronectin, TWIST, MMP2, and MMP9 in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. CO99EL also induced apoptotic cell death by increasing cleaved caspase-3 and decreasing anti-apoptotic proteins Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL. In an in vivo syngeneic breast cancer mouse model, 100 mg/kg CO99EL suppressed tumor growth and induced apoptosis of cancer cells. Moreover, CO99EL significantly inhibited lung metastasis from primary breast cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrated that 100 mg/kg CO99EL has potent anti-tumor effects against breast cancer, thus suggesting that 100 mg/kg CO99EL has potential applications in the treatment and prevention of breast cancer.

Anti-obesity effects of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum SKO-001 in high-fat diet-induced obese mice

PURPOSE

Previous reports showed that some probiotics provide beneficial effects on various diseases including metabolic disorders. This study aimed to investigate the anti-obesity effects of Lactiplantibacillus (L.) plantarum SKO-001 (SKO-001), a probiotic strain newly isolated from Angelica gigas.

METHODS

C57BL/6J mice were fed with high-fat diet (HFD, 60% fat) for four weeks, and then different doses of SKO-001 (n = 10 each group) were orally given for 12 weeks. Following treatment, body weight, fat weight, serum parameters and adipose and liver tissues were analyzed.

RESULTS

SKO-001 (2 × 10¹⁰ CFU/day, per os) reduced body weight gain after 10th week of administration, accompanied by a reduction in body fat mass of mice. In the SKO-001-fed group, increased serum adiponectin, decreased leptin, insulin, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, free fatty acids, and triglyceride levels were observed. Hematoxylin and eosin staining of various fat depots showed that increased adipocyte size caused by HFD intake was markedly reduced and correlated with reduced mRNA levels of lipogenesis genes, including sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1c, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma, and CCAAT/enhancer binding protein alpha, and increased uncoupling protein 1 levels. Similarly, SKO-001 reduced lipid accumulation, decreased the mRNA levels of lipogenic genes, and reduced α-smooth muscle actin and collagen type 1 alpha 1 levels in the liver.

CONCLUSIONS

SKO-001 ameliorates obesity and related metabolic abnormalities in adipose and liver tissues, possibly via the regulation of lipid metabolism. Based on the results of the present study, SKO-001 may be applicable as an anti-obesity therapeutic or functional food.

Early adolescents’ sexual and reproductive health literacy in Lao PDR

Background

Sexual and reproductive health literacy (SRHL) refers to the ability to access, understand, appraise, and apply information for decision-making related to sexual and reproductive health. The low level of SRHL in adolescents increases their sexually risky behaviors and endangers sexual health. Although early adolescence is a critical development period for forming initial views on sexuality and is often a time for attempting risky behaviors, studies on SRHL for early adolescents are fairly limited in Las PDR. As an initial step for the development of a global health project between Lao PDR and South Korea, this study assessed the level of SRHL and the differences in gender among early adolescents in Lao PDR.

Methods

Participants were 235 students conveniently recruited from one junior high school each in two provinces in Lao PDR. SRHL was measured using the 39-item Teen Pregnancy Health Literacy scale consisting of 4 subscales of finding, understanding, appraisal, and application. The scores were classified into inadequate, problematic, sufficient, and excellent using the SRHL index formula. The mean differences in gender were compared using t-test.

Results

The mean of the SRHL scores of the participants was 19.07 (±10.57). The mean score was significantly lower for girls, at 17.67 (±11.22) than for boys, at 21.37 (±9.05) (p = .006). Significant differences were further identified in all four sub-domains of SRHL: finding (p = .025), understanding (p = .005), appraisal (p = .041), and application (p = .029). The majority of participants (91.7%) were categorized as having an ‘inadequate’ or ‘problematic’ level of SRHL.

Conclusions

The level of SRHL among most early adolescents was found to be inadequate. The level of SRHL among girls was much lower than that among boys. The findings suggest a gender-specific approach to developing health education programs to improve SRHL among early adolescents and prevent future sexually risky behaviors in Lao PDR.

Key messages

Characterization of rhodanine derivatives as potential disease-modifying drugs for experimental mouse osteoarthritis

OBJECTIVE

This study was performed to characterize selected rhodanine derivatives as potential preclinical disease-modifying drugs for experimental osteoarthritis (OA) in mice.

METHODS

Three rhodanine derivatives, designated rhodanine (R)-501, R-502, and R-503, were selected as candidate OA disease-modifying drugs. Their effects were evaluated by intra-articular (IA) injection in OA mouse models induced by DMM (destabilization of the medial meniscus) or adenoviral overexpression in joint tissues of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-2α or zinc importer ZIP8. The regulatory mechanisms impacted by the rhodanine derivatives were examined in primary-culture chondrocytes and fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS).

RESULTS

All three rhodanine derivatives inhibited OA development caused by DMM or overexpression of HIF-2α or ZIP8. Compared to vehicle-treated group, for example, IA injection of R-501 in DMM-operated mice reduced median OARSI grade from 3.78 (IQR 3.00-5.00) to 1.89 (IQR 0.94-2.00, P = 0.0001). R-502 and R-503 also reduced from 3.67 (IQR 2.11-4.56) to 2.00 (IQR 1.00-2.00, P = 0.0030) and 2.00 (IQR 1.83-2.67, P = 0.0378), respectively. Mechanistically, the rhodanine derivatives inhibited the nuclear localization and transcriptional activity of HIF-2α in chondrocytes and FLS. They did not bind to Zn²⁺ or modulate Zn²⁺ homeostasis in chondrocytes or FLS; instead, they inhibited the nuclear localization and transcriptional activity of the Zn²⁺-dependent transcription factor, MTF1. HIF-2α, ZIP8, and interleukin-1β could upregulate matrix-degrading enzymes in chondrocytes and FLS, and the rhodanine derivatives inhibited these effects.

CONCLUSION

IA administration of rhodanine derivatives significantly reduced OA pathogenesis in various mouse models, demonstrating that these derivatives have disease-modifying therapeutic potential against OA pathogenesis.

Preclinical evaluation of Zanthoxylum piperitum Benn., traditional muscle pain remedy, for joint inflammation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Zanthoxylum piperitum has been used as a traditional Asian medicine to treat hypertension, stroke, bruise and muscle pain. It has been known to induce detoxification; affect anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant, and tyrosinase activity; inhibit osteosarcoma proliferation; anti-osteoarthritis inflammation. In this study, we aim to identify the therapeutic effect of Z. piperitum 90% EtOH extract (ZPE-LR) on rheumatoid arthritis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We investigated the anti-rheumatoid arthritis and -immunomodulatory activities of the ZPE-LR in collagen-induced arthritic (CIA) mice, a rheumatoid arthritis animal model. In order to assess the analgesic effects of ZPE-LR in vivo, acetic acid injection, formaldehyde injection, hot plate model was used. The mechanism for anti-inflammatory activity of ZPE-LR was identified with LPS-stimulated Raw 264.7 cells.

RESULTS

Pharmacologically, oral administration of ZPE-LR into CIA mice resulted in a significant and dose-dependent decrease in clinical arthritis score and paw swelling compared to untreated negative control. Pathologic examination showed that ZPE-LR prevented morphological change in cartilage and destruction of phalanges in CIA mice. This protective effect was associated with reduced pain, inflammatory mediators such as NO, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, as well as COX-2 and iNOS expression. Furthermore, reduction of phosphor-ERK and BDNF indicates a novel rheumatoid arthritis-regulating mechanism by ZPE-LR treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that the administration of ZPE-LR remarkably inhibited CIA progression and might be helpful in suppressing inflammation and pain in rheumatoid arthritis.

Chamaecyparis obtusa (Siebold & Zucc.) Endl. leaf extracts prevent inflammatory responses via inhibition of the JAK/STAT axis in RAW264.7 cells

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Chamaecyparis obtusa (Siebold & Zucc.) Endl. (C. obtusa) has been used as folk medicine in East Asia and has been reported to alleviate inflammatory diseases. However, the detailed mechanisms for the anti-inflammatory effects of C. obtusa remain unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Although the anti-inflammatory mechanisms of natural products have been studied for decades, it is still important to identify the potential anti-inflammatory effects of natural sources. In this study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effects and underlying mechanism of C. obtusa leaf extracts.

MATERIAL &METHODS

The cell viability was determined by MTT and crystal violet staining. NO production in the supernatant was measured using Griess reagent. The cell lysates were analyzed by immunoblotting and RT-qPCR. Secreted cytokines were analyzed using ELISA kit and cytokine array kit. mRNA expression from the GSE9632 database set. Z-scores were calculated for each gene and visualized by heat map.

RESULTS

Among the extracts of C. obtusa obtained with different extraction methods, the 99% ethanol leaf extract (CO99EL) strongly inhibited lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression and Janus kinase/signaling transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) phosphorylation in RAW264.7 cells. In addition, CO99EL strongly inhibited LPS-induced interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-27, and C-C motif chemokine ligand (CCL)-1 production and directly inhibited LPS-induced JAK/STAT phosphorylation in RAW264.7 cells.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings demonstrate that CO99EL significantly prevents LPS-induced macrophage activation by inhibiting the JAK/STAT axis. Therefore, we suggest the use of C. obtusa extracts as therapeutic approach for inflammatory diseases.

Therapeutic Potential of Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) and MSC-Derived Extracellular Vesicles for the Treatment of Spinal Cord Injury

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a life-threatening condition that leads to permanent disability with partial or complete loss of motor, sensory, and autonomic functions. SCI is usually caused by initial mechanical insult, followed by a cascade of several neuroinflammation and structural changes. For ameliorating the neuroinflammatory cascades, MSC has been regarded as a therapeutic agent. The animal SCI research has demonstrated that MSC can be a valuable therapeutic agent with several growth factors and cytokines that may induce anti-inflammatory and regenerative effects. However, the therapeutic efficacy of MSCs in animal SCI models is inconsistent, and the optimal method of MSCs remains debatable. Moreover, there are several limitations to developing these therapeutic agents for humans. Therefore, identifying novel agents for regenerative medicine is necessary. Extracellular vesicles are a novel source for regenerative medicine; they possess nucleic acids, functional proteins, and bioactive lipids and perform various functions, including damaged tissue repair, immune response regulation, and reduction of inflammation. MSC-derived exosomes have advantages over MSCs, including small dimensions, low immunogenicity, and no need for additional procedures for culture expansion or delivery. Certain studies have demonstrated that MSC-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes, exhibit outstanding chondroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects. Therefore, we reviewed the principles and patho-mechanisms and summarized the research outcomes of MSCs and MSC-derived EVs for SCI, reported to date.

Clinical Significance of the Fetuin-A-to-Adiponectin Ratio in Obese Children and Adolescents with Diabetes Mellitus

Fetuin-A and adiponectin are inflammatory cytokines associated with obesity and insulin resistance. This study aimed to examine the fetuin-A-to-adiponectin ratio (FAR) in diabetic children and to determine the role of FAR. A total of 54 children and adolescents with diabetes mellitus (DM) and 44 controls aged 9–16 years were included in this study. Clinical characteristics, including plasma fetuin-A and adiponectin levels, were compared with respect to body mass index (BMI) and diabetes type. Of 98 children, 54.1% were obese, whereas 18.4% were obese and diabetic. FAR was higher in obese children with DM than in non-obese children and also in type 2 DM children than in type 1. FAR showed a stronger association with BMI than with fetuin-A and adiponectin individually, and its association was more prominent in diabetic children than in controls. BMI was a risk factor for increased FAR. Plasma fetuin-A was elevated in obese children, and its association with insulin resistance and β cell function seemed more prominent in diabetic children after adjustment for adiponectin. Thus, FAR could be a useful surrogate for the early detection of childhood metabolic complications in diabetic children, particularly those who are obese.

Antioxidant and antifatigue effect of a standardized fraction (HemoHIM) from Angelica gigas, Cnidium officinale, and Paeonia lactiflora

CONTEXT

HemoHIM is an herbal preparation containing Angelica gigas Nakai (Apiaceae), Cnidium officinale Makino (Umbelliferae), and Paeonia lactiflora Pallas (Paeoniaceae) developed for immune regulation. To date, studies on the antifatigue effects of HemoHIM have not been conducted.

OBJECTIVE

The antifatigue effects of HemoHIM using models of citrinin and exercise-induced chronic fatigue syndrome were investigated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Citrinin-induced L6 skeletal muscle cells were treated with HemoHIM (125, 250, and 500 μg/mL). The antioxidant factors were analysed. ICR mice were divided into four groups (n = 10): control, HemoHIM 250, 500 mg/kg, and creatine 300 mg/kg, respectively. Mice were orally administered HemoHIM or creatine for three weeks; during this time, both rotarod test and forced swimming test (FST) were conducted. The latency time was investigated and antioxidant, antifatigue factors were analysed.

RESULTS

HemoHIM significantly restored reduced antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, Txn, GPx, GSr, and GCLC in HemoHIM 500 μg/mL) compared to the citrinin group in L6 cells. In vivo, HemoHIM significantly improved the latency time (FST; 279.88 ± 50.32 sec, rotarod test; 552.35 ± 23.50 sec in HemoHIM 500 mg/kg). Moreover, the FST-induced reduction in glucose and glutathione significantly increased by 3-fold (HemoHIM 500 mg/kg) and increase in LDH and MDA were significantly inhibited by 1.6, 2.1-fold in the HemoHIM 500 mg/kg compared to the control group.

Isolation and Characterization of Extracellular Vesicle from Mesenchymal Stem Cells of the Epidural Fat of the Spine

Study Design

An experimental study with extracellular vesicles (EVs) from mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) of the epidural fat (EF) of the spine.

Purpose

This study aims to isolate the exosomes from epidural fat-derived mesenchymal stem cells (EF-MSCs) and fully characterize the EF-MSC-EVs.

Overview of Literature

EF-MSCs were reported in 2019, and a few studies have shown the positive outcomes of using EF-MSCs to treat specific spine pathologies. However, MSCs have significant limitations for conducting basic studies or developing therapeutic agents. Although EVs are an emerging research topic, no studies have focused on EVs, especially exosomes, from EF and EF-MSCs.

Methods

In this study, we isolated the exosomes using the tangential flow filtration (TFF) system with exosome-depleted fetal bovine serum and performed the characterization tests via western blotting, reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction, nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), and transmission electron microscopy.

Results

In transmission electron microscopy, the exosome had a diameter of approximately 100–200 nm and had a spherical shape, whereas in the NTA, the exosome had an average diameter of 142.8 nm with a concentration of 1.27×10¹⁰ particles/mL. The flow cytometry analysis showed the expression of CD63 and CD81. The western blotting analysis showed the positive markers.

Conclusions

These findings showed that isolating the exosomes via TFF resulted in high-quality EF-MSC exosome yield. Further studies with exosomes from EF-MSC are needed to evaluate the function and role of the EF tissue.

Increased risk of chronic otitis media in chronic rhinosinusitis patients: a longitudinal follow-up study using a national health screening cohort

BACKGROUND

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and chronic otitis media (COM) share pathophysiological mechanisms such as bacterial infection, biofilm, and persistence of the obstruction state of ventilation routes. However, only a few studies have investigated the relationship between these two diseases nationwide and in the general population. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the incidence of COM in patients with CRS differed from that of a matched control from the national health screening cohort.

METHODS

Data from the Korean Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service-National Patient Samples were collected from 2002 to 2015. Participants who were treated ≥ ≥ ≥2 times and underwent head and neck computed tomography evaluation were selected. A 1:4 matched CRS group (n=8,057) and a control group (n=32,228) were selected. The control group included participants who were never treated with the ICD-10 code J32 from 2002 to 2015. The CRS group included CRS patients with/without nasal polyps.

RESULTS

The incidence of COM was significantly higher in the CRS group than in the control group. In a subgroup analysis, the incidence of COM in all age groups and in men and women was significantly higher in the CRS group than in the control group. More, CRS increased the risk of COM.

CONCLUSIONS

A significant association was observed between CRS and COM. This indicates that CRS patients have a high risk of developing COM.

Transient Hyperinsulinemic Hypoglycemia Linked to PAX6 Mutation

Prolonged hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia in infancy can result in developmental sequelae. A mutation in the paired box-6 gene (PAX6) has been reported to cause disorders in oculogenesis and neurogenesis. A limited number of cases of diabetes mellitus in adults with a PAX6 mutation suggest that the gene also plays a role in glucose homeostasis. The present case report describes a boy with a PAX6 mutation, born with anophthalmia, who underwent hypoglycemic seizures starting at 5 months old, and showed a prediabetic condition at 60 months. This patient provides novel evidence that connects PAX6 to glucose homeostasis and highlights that life-threatening hypoglycemia or early onset glucose intolerance may be encountered. The role of PAX6 in glucose metabolism and insulin regulation should be further investigated.

Association between body mass index and the risk of falls: a nationwide population-based study

The association of BMI with falls differed between men and women in Korea. Obesity was associated with a greater risk of falls in women, whereas underweight seemed to increase the risk of falls compared with normal weight in men.

PURPOSE

This study examined the sex-specific association between body mass index (BMI) and falls in Korean adults using data from a large population-based survey.

METHODS

We analyzed 113,805 men and women (age ≥ 50 years) who participated in the Korean Community Health Survey in 2013. Logistic regression was used to assess the relationship between BMI and falls.

RESULTS

The mean (± standard deviation) age and BMI of all participants were 63.8 ± 9.6 years and 23.2 ± 2.9 kg/m², respectively. Among the 113,805 subjects, 19.1% and 6.7% had histories of falls and recurrent falls, respectively. The association of BMI with recurrent falls differed between men and women. The multivariable-adjusted odd ratios (ORs) for recurrent falls were 0.98 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.86-1.12), 1.23 (1.14-1.32), and 1.51 (1.26-1.81) in women with BMIs of < 18.5, 25-29.9, and ≥ 30 kg/m², respectively, relative to those with BMIs of 18.5-24.9 kg/m². The corresponding ORs for men were 1.20 (95% CI 1.01-1.42), 1.05 (0.96-1.14), and 0.97 (0.69-1.38), respectively. Older age and low economic level were associated independently with higher ORs of recurrent falls in men and women, respectively. In addition, comorbidities, including diabetes, stroke, arthritis, osteoporosis, and asthma, correlated significantly with an increased risk of recurrent falls (all p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Obesity was associated with a greater risk of recurrent falls in women, whereas underweight seemed to be associated with a greater risk of falls in men.

Discriminatory performance of insulin-like growth factor 1 and insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 by correlating values to chronological age, bone age, and pubertal status for diagnosis of isolated growth hormone deficiency

PURPOSE

The discriminatory performance of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) was investigated by correlating their values with chronological age (CA), bone age (BA), and pubertal status (PS) for diagnosis of isolated growth hormone deficiency (IGHD).

METHODS

We evaluated IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 levels in 310 short-stature subjects subdivided into 2 groups: IGHD (n=31) and non-IGHD (n=279). IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 were assayed using immune-radiometric assay and transformed into standard deviation score (SDS) according to CA, BA, and PS.

RESULTS

The highest sensitivity was found in IGF-1-SDS for CA and IGFBP-3-SDS for CA (22.6% and 30.0%, respectively). The highest specificity was found in IGF-1-SDS for PS and IGFBP-3-SDS for PS (98.2% and 94.4%, respectively). Groups with the highest positive predictive values were IGF-1-SDS for BA and IGFBP-3-SDS for BA (10.9% and 5.1%, respectively). Highest negative predictive values were seen in IGF-1-SDS for CA and IGFBP-3-SDS for CA (98.4% and 98.4%, respectively).

CONCLUSION

IGF-1-SDS for CA, instead of IGF-1-SDS for BA or PS, could be used as a standard variable for IGHD screening. The sufficiently high specificity of IGF-1-SDS for PS suggests that this value is a useful tool for identification of IGHD.

Phenotypic Heterogeneity and Plasticity of Cancer Cell Migration in a Pancreatic Tumor Three-Dimensional Culture Model

Invasive cancer cell migration is a key feature of metastatic human pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), yet the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. Here, we investigated modes of cancer cell invasion using two pancreatic cancer cell lines with differential epithelial–mesenchymal status, PANC-1 and BxPC-3, under 3D culture conditions. Multicellular tumor spheroids (TSs) were grown in a collagen matrix co-cultured with pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) using microchannel chips. PANC-1 cells showed individual migration from TSs via invadopodium formation. BxPC-3 cells showed plasticity between collective and individual migration in either mesenchymal mode, with filopodium-like protrusions, or blebby amoeboid mode. These two cell lines showed significantly different patterns of extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, with MMP-dependent degradation in a limited area of ECM around invadopodia for PANC-1 cells, or MMP-independent extensive deformation of ECM for BxPC-3 cells. Cancer cell migration out of the collagen channel significantly increased by PSCs and directional cancer cell migration was mediated by fibronectin deposited by PSCs. Our results highlight the phenotypic heterogeneity and plasticity of PDAC cell migration and ECM remodeling under 3D culture conditions. This 3D co-culture model of pancreatic cancer cells and PSCs offers a useful tool for studying cancer cell migration and ECM remodeling to identify and develop potential molecular targets and anti-cancer agents against human PDAC.

Analysis of diagnostic decision in acupuncture from the actual functional dyspepsia patient's clinical information

Background

Clinical research in acupuncture has been criticized for not reflecting real-world practice in terms of diagnosis and intervention. This study aimed to collect data on the principles of diagnosis and selection of acupoints from Korean medicine doctors (KMDs) and analyze the patterns and priorities in decision-making.

Methods

The study design was based on the data of an actual patient with functional dyspepsia (FD) (according to Rome III criteria) to create simulated patients, and a KMD specialized in gastrointestinal disorders was allocated to collect the clinical information as objectively as possible. Sixty-nine KMDs were recruited to diagnose a simulated patient based on the actual patient's clinical information, in a manner similar to that performed in their clinics.

Results

After the diagnostic procedures were completed, the pattern identification, selected acupoints, reasons for choosing them, and importance of symptoms for deciding their diagnoses were documented. The information needed was clearly distinguishable from those routinely asked in western medicine, and information regarding fecal status, abdominal examination, appetite status, pulse diagnosis, and tongue diagnosis were listed as vital. The doctors identified the patient's pattern as "spleen-stomach weakness", "liver qi depression", or "food accumulation or phlegm-fluid retention". The most frequently selected acupoints were CV12, LI4, LR3, ST36, and PC6.

Conclusion

There are common acupoints across different patterns, but pattern-specific acupoints were also recommended. These results can provide useful information to design clinical research and education for better clinical performance in acupuncture that reflects real-world practice.

Extracellular Acidosis Promotes Metastatic Potency via Decrease of the BMAL1 Circadian Clock Gene in Breast Cancer

Circadian oscillation is an essential process that influences many physiological and biological mechanisms and a decrease of circadian genes is associated with many diseases such as cancer. Despite many efforts to identify the detailed mechanism for decreasing circadian genes and recovering reduced circadian genes in cancer, it is still largely unknown. We found that BMAL1 was reduced in tumor hypoxia-induced acidosis, and recovered by selectively targeting acidic pH in breast cancer cell lines. Surprisingly, BMAL1 was reduced by decrease of protein stability as well as inhibition of transcription under acidosis. In addition, melatonin significantly prevented acidosis-mediated decrease of BMAL1 by inhibiting lactate dehydrogenase-A during hypoxia. Remarkably, acidosis-mediated metastasis was significantly alleviated by BMAL1 overexpression in breast cancer cells. We therefore suggest that tumor hypoxia-induced acidosis promotes metastatic potency by decreasing BMAL1, and that tumor acidosis could be a target for preventing breast cancer metastasis by sustaining BMAL1.

Protective effects of a standardized extract (HemoHIM) using indomethacin- and ethanol/HCl-induced gastric mucosal injury models

Context: HemoHIM is a medicinal herbal preparation of Angelica gigas Nakai (Apiaceae), Cnidium officinale Makino (Umbelliferae), and Paeonia japonica Miyabe (Paeoniaceae) developed for immune regulation. HemoHIM has been investigated for its ability to enhance tissue self-renewal and stimulate immune systems. To date, studies on the protective effects of HemoHIM against gastritis and gastric ulcers have not been conducted. Objective: The protective effects of HemoHIM using models of indomethacin and ethanol/hydrochloric acid (EtOH/HCl)-induced gastric mucosal injury were investigated. Materials and methods: Rats were divided into five groups (n = 10): control, indomethacin, or EtOH/HCl groups, HemoHIM 250, 500 mg kg^-1, and cimetidine 100 mg kg^-1, respectively. Indomethacin (80 mg kg^-1) and 60% EtOH/150 mM HCl were administered orally 1 h after the administration of samples and rats were anesthetized 3 h after induction. The lesion area (%), inhibition ratio (%), and total acidity were investigated, and tissues were histopathologically analyzed using hematoxylin and-eosin (H&E) staining. Results: HemoHIM significantly reduced gastric injury in indomethacin-induced model (250 and 500 mg kg^-1; 64.30% and 67.75%, p < 0.001) compared to indomethacin group. In the EtOH/HCl-induced model, HemoHIM reduced gastric lesion (250 and 500 mg kg^-1; 61.05% and 73.37%, p < 0.001) and gastric acidity (250 and 500 mg kg^-1; 37.80 and 45.20 meq L^-1, p < 0.001) compared to EtOH/HCl group. H&E staining of the gastric mucosa showed decreased erosion and hemorrhage in HemoHIM group compared to EtOH/HCl group. Discussion and conclusions: Based on the results, HemoHIM is potential candidate for the treatment of gastritis and gastric ulcers.

P4641Are coronary artery abnormalities in Kawasaki disease associated with iron deficiency anemia?

Purpose

Coronary artery abnormalities (CAA) are the most important complication of Kawasaki disease (KD). Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is prevalent micronutrient deficiencies and its association with KD remains unknown. We hypothesized the presence of IDA could be a predictor of CAA.

Methods

This retrospective study included 173 KD patients, divided into two groups by absence (Group 1) and presence (Group 2) of CAA. The odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated using a logistic regression model to estimate the association between CAA and other indicators. Due to the collinearity between the IDA indicators, each indicator was paired with anemia in 3 models.

Results

The 3 indicators of IDA, serum iron, iron saturation and ferritin, were all significantly higher in Group 1 than in Group 2. Three sets of models including anemia with iron indicators produced the odd ratio (OR) of CAA of 3.513, 3.171, and 2.256, respectively. The 3 indicators of IDA were negatively associated with CAA, by OR of 0.965, 0.914, and 0.944, respectively. The Area under the curve (AUC) of ferritin, iron saturation, serum iron, anemia, and Kobayashi score was 0.907 (95% CI, 0.851–0.963), 0.729 (95% CI, 0.648–0.810), 0.711 (95% CI, 0.629–0.793), 0.638 (95% CI, 0.545–0.731), and 0.563 (95% CI, 0.489–0.636) respectively.

Figure 1 & 3

Conclusion

The indicators of IDA, especially ferritin, were highly associated with CAA, so that they were stronger predictors compared to the Kobayashi score. The IDA indicators can be used to predict CAA development and suggest the need for early intervention.

Acknowledgement/Funding

None

Nonambipolar Transport due to Electrons with 3D Resistive Response in the KSTAR Tokamak

A small nonaxisymmetric (3D) magnetic field can induce nonambipolar transport of the particle species confined in a tokamak and thus a significant change of plasma rotation. This process can be in a favor of instability control in the region where the tokamak plasma is sufficiently collisional and resistive, as observed in the applications of n=1 resonant magnetic perturbations to the KSTAR tokamak. The plasma rotation can be globally accelerated due to radially drifting electrons and constrained to the electron root, if the radial transport is enhanced by an amplified 3D response. This mechanism is verified by a kinetically self-consistent magnetohydrodynamic modeling for both response and transport, which offers the quantitative explanations on the internal n=1 structure detected by electron-cyclotron-emission imaging and the cocurrent plasma spinning observed in the experiments.

Search for a Dark Matter-Induced Annual Modulation Signal in NaI(Tl) with the COSINE-100 Experiment

We present new constraints on the dark matter-induced annual modulation signal using 1.7 years of COSINE-100 data with a total exposure of 97.7 kg yr. The COSINE-100 experiment, consisting of 106 kg of NaI(Tl) target material, is designed to carry out a model-independent test of DAMA/LIBRA's claim of WIMP discovery by searching for the same annual modulation signal using the same NaI(Tl) target. The crystal data show a 2.7  cpd/kg/keV background rate on average in the 2-6 keV energy region of interest. Using a χ-squared minimization method we observe best fit values for modulation amplitude and phase of 0.0092±0.0067  cpd/kg/keV and 127.2±45.9  d, respectively.

Periodontal healing using a collagen matrix with periodontal ligament progenitor cells in a dehiscence defect model in beagle dogs

Purpose

To histologically characterize periodontal healing at 8 weeks in surgically created dehiscence defects in beagle dogs that received a collagen matrix with periodontal ligament (PDL) progenitor cells.

Methods

The bilateral maxillary premolars and first molars in 6 animals were used. Standardized experimental dehiscence defects were made on the buccal side of 3 premolars, and primary culturing of PDL progenitor cells was performed on the molars. Collagen matrix was used as a scaffold and a delivery system for PDL progenitor cells. The experimental sites were grafted with collagen matrix (COL), PDL progenitor cells with collagen matrix (COL/CELL), or left without any material (CTL). Histologic and histomorphometric analyses were performed after 8 weeks.

Results

The defect height from the cementoenamel junction to the most apical point of cementum removal did not significantly differ across the CTL, COL, and COL/CELL groups, at 4.57±0.28, 4.56±0.41, and 4.64±0.27 mm (mean ± standard deviation), respectively; the corresponding values for epithelial adhesion were 1.41±0.51, 0.85±0.29, and 0.30±0.41 mm (P<0.05), the heights of new bone regeneration were 1.32±0.44, 1.65±0.52, and 1.93±0.61 mm (P<0.05), and the cementum regeneration values were 1.15±0.42, 1.81±0.46, and 2.57±0.56 mm (P<0.05). There was significantly more new bone formation in the COL/CELL group than in the CTL group, and new cementum length was also significantly higher in the COL/CELL group. However, there were no significant differences in the width of new cementum among the groups.

Conclusions

PDL progenitor cells carried by a synthetic collagen matrix may enhance periodontal regeneration, including cementum and new bone formation.

Pretreatment Anterior Choroidal Artery Infarction Predicts Poor Outcome after Thrombectomy in Intracranial ICA Occlusion

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Predictors of outcome after endovascular thrombectomy have not been investigated adequately in patients with intracranial ICA occlusions. This study aimed to assess the impact of anterior choroidal artery infarction in pretreatment DWI on the outcome of patients with acute intracranial ICA occlusion who underwent thrombectomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study included 113 patients with acute intracranial ICA occlusion who underwent DWI followed by thrombectomy between January 2011 and July 2016. Characteristics and outcomes were compared between the groups positive and negative for anterior choroidal artery infarction and patients with good outcomes (90-day mRS 0-2) and poor outcomes (mRS 3-6). Binary logistic regression analyses were performed to identify independent predictors of a good outcome.

RESULTS

On pretreatment DWI, anterior choroidal artery infarction was observed in 60 patients (53.1%). Good outcomes were significantly less frequent in the group positive for anterior choroidal artery infarction than in the group negative for it (25% versus 49.1%, P = .008). Parenchymal hemorrhage occurred only in the group positive for anterior choroidal artery infarction (13.3% versus 0%, P = .007). In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, independent predictors of good outcome were an absence of anterior choroidal artery infarction (OR, 0.333; 95% CI, 0.135-0.824; P = .017) and successful reperfusion (OR, 5.598; 95% CI, 1.135-27.604; P = .034).

CONCLUSIONS

Pretreatment anterior choroidal artery infarction is associated with parenchymal hemorrhage and poor outcome after thrombectomy in patients with acute intracranial ICA occlusion. In addition, the absence of anterior choroidal artery infarction and successful reperfusion were independent predictors of good outcome after thrombectomy in acute intracranial ICA occlusion.

Are patients with mild to moderate renal impairment on metformin or other oral anti-hyperglycaemic agents at increased risk of contrast-induced nephropathy and metabolic acidosis after radiocontrast exposure?

AIM

To investigate whether the use of metformin during computed tomography (CT) with radiocontrast agents increases the risk of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) and metabolic acidosis after CT in type 2 diabetes patients with mild to moderate renal failure.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patient records from January 2015 to December 2017 were reviewed retrospectively. A total of 374 patients were included in the final analysis. Of them, 157 patients received metformin, and 217 patients were taking other oral hypoglycaemic agents (OHAs) during radiocontrast administration.

RESULTS

No significant difference in CIN incidence was observed between the metformin use group and the other OHAs group (p=0.085). Metabolic acidosis after CT was seen in 91 (58%) patients who used metformin and 141 (65%) patients who were taking other OHAs. There was no relationship between metabolic acidosis after CT and the use of metformin (p=0.195). Metabolic acidosis after radiocontrast agent exposure was associated with malignant disease, low serum albumin level, and low serum total CO₂ level at baseline.

CONCLUSION

These data show that other factors, but not metformin use, are associated with metabolic acidosis after radiocontrast agent exposure in patients with reduced renal function. These data support current recommendations that there is no need to discontinue metformin before CT using radiocontrast agents in patients with mild to moderate renal failure.

SAT-246 Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 and Binding Protein-3 in Children with Metabolic Syndrome

Purpose: To examine the association of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) with metabolic parameters of childhood obesity and assess their relationship with the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in childrenMethods: This was a cross-sectional study of a total 307 children who are subcategorized into three groups according to body mass index (BMI) percentile for age and gender. (Subjects included 207 normoweight, 36 overweight, and 64 obese children). Auxological profiles and biochemical data including metabolic parameters associated with obesity, basal glycemia and insulin resistance were collected. Serum IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 levels were measured along with their standard deviation score (SDS). Results: Eleven subjects satisfied MetS criteria out of 98 children who were 10 years old or older. BMI was not significantly different in children with different quartile levels of IGF-1 SDS, IGFBP-3 SDS and IGF-1 to IGFBP-3 ratio. Alanine aminotransferase, uric acid and total cholesterol were inversely associated with IGF-1 SDS while not related to IGFBP-3 SDS or IGF-1 to IGFBP-3 ratio. IGF-1 SDS was lower in children with MetS compared to ones without MetS), however showed no difference among three groups subdivided with reference to BMI. Low IGF-1 SDS and high IGFBP-3 SDS were found to be risk factors for MetS. In children with MetS, no significant associations existed between IGF-1 SDS, IGFBP-3 SDS, or IGF-1 to IGFBP-3 ratio and the single components of MetS. Conclusion: Low IGF-1 may be a suggested risk factor of both childhood obesity and the presence of metabolic syndrome of youth. The elucidation of the role of IGFs might help to understand their metabolic actions in obesity related condition.

First Direct Search for Inelastic Boosted Dark Matter with COSINE-100

A search for inelastic boosted dark matter (IBDM) using the COSINE-100 detector with 59.5 days of data is presented. This relativistic dark matter is theorized to interact with the target material through inelastic scattering with electrons, creating a heavier state that subsequently produces standard model particles, such as an electron-positron pair. In this study, we search for this electron-positron pair in coincidence with the initially scattered electron as a signature for an IBDM interaction. No excess over the predicted background event rate is observed. Therefore, we present limits on IBDM interactions under various hypotheses, one of which allows us to explore an area of the dark photon parameter space that has not yet been covered by other experiments. This is the first experimental search for IBDM using a terrestrial detector.

Abstract P4-06-23: Feasibility of sygeneic mice models of breast cancer for research of immune checkpoint blockades

Background: With the increasing success of immune checkpoint blockades for cancer treatment, we increasingly need well-characterized preclinical models. Syngeneic mice models (with a fully competent immune system) have advantages that they are easily established and cost less, though they do not reflect genetic complexity of human tumors. We evaluated feasibility of syngeneic mice models of breast cancer by analyzing efficacy of immune checkpoint blockade and dynamic change of tumor immune microenvironment.

Methods: We used syngeneic mice model of JC, 4T1, and EMT6 cells, which are all murine triple negative breast cancer in BALB/c mice. At the time when subcutaneous tumors reach at 50˜100mm^3, each mice models were divided into 2 groups for treatment versus no-treatment control. In the treatment group, mice version of anti-PD-1 antibody was intraperitoneally injected (q 3 days, x 6). Anti-tumor efficacy was monitored by measuring tumor volume. 'Tumor response' was defined as a case with tumor volume less than that of control group by a standard error at a determined time point. Immune microenvironment was evaluated by measuring serum cytokines (IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, IFNγ, and TNFα) with legendplex and immune cells (CD3, CD4, CD8, CD56, and FOXP3) of peripheral blood with FACS before injection of PD-1 blockade, after 1st injection, and when euthanized. Tumor-infiltrating immune cells were evaluated with FACS, when euthanized.

Results: The tumor response rate to PD-1 blockade was highest in the 4T1 model (54.5%, 6/11) compared to JC model (40%, 4/10) or EMT6 model (36.4%, 4/11). Bleeding 3 times and tumor obtainment when euthanized in each mouse were feasible for profiling of cytokines and immune cells. Although before treatment with PD-1 blockade, CD3+T cells in peripheral blood were slightly lower in 4T1 model (18.3±8.1%) than JC model (24.6±4.7%) or EMT6 model (27.9±6.3%), after injection of one dose of PD-1 blockade, CD3+T cells increased 1.5 times in 4T1 model (18.3% to 27.3%), whereas those CD3+T cells decreased slightly in JC model and EMT6 model. Dynamic changes were not observed in other subsets of peripheral immune cells in all 3 models. Serum TNFα (with statistical significance) and IFNγ (with borderline significance) were higher in responders than in non-responders or no-treatment control.

Conclusions: Syngeneic mice models of breast cancer were feasible to investigate immune checkpoint blockades and monitor dynamic change of immune microenvironment. In this regard, such models may be used to evaluate immune checkpoint blockade-based combination therapy as well.

Citation Format: Moon YW, Park N, Hur J, Pandey K, Cho YB, Kim SK, Lee SA, Son GW, Jo JM, An H-J. Feasibility of sygeneic mice models of breast cancer for research of immune checkpoint blockades [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2018 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2018 Dec 4-8; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P4-06-23.

Critical role for arginase II in osteoarthritis pathogenesis

Objective

Osteoarthritis (OA) appears to be associated with various metabolic disorders, but the potential contribution of amino acid metabolism to OA pathogenesis has not been clearly elucidated. Here, we explored whether alterations in the amino acid metabolism of chondrocytes could regulate OA pathogenesis.

Methods

Expression profiles of amino acid metabolism-regulating genes in primary-culture passage 0 mouse chondrocytes were examined by microarray analysis, and selected genes were further characterised in mouse OA chondrocytes and OA cartilage of human and mouse models. Experimental OA in mice was induced by destabilisation of the medial meniscus (DMM) or intra-articular (IA) injection of adenoviruses expressing catabolic regulators. The functional consequences of arginase II (Arg-II) were examined in Arg2^−/− mice and those subjected to IA injection of an adenovirus encoding Arg-II (Ad-Arg-II).

Results

The gene encoding Arg-II, an arginine-metabolising enzyme, was specifically upregulated in chondrocytes under various pathological conditions and in OA cartilage from human patients with OA and various mouse models. Adenovirus-mediated overexpression of Arg-II in mouse joint tissues caused OA pathogenesis, whereas genetic ablation of Arg2 in mice (Arg2^−/−) abolished all manifestations of DMM-induced OA. Mechanistically, Arg-II appears to cause OA cartilage destruction at least partly by upregulating the expression of matrix-degrading enzymes (matrix metalloproteinase 3 [MMP3] and MMP13) in chondrocytes via the nuclear factor (NF)-κB pathway.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that Arg-II is a crucial regulator of OA pathogenesis in mice. Although chondrocytes of human and mouse do not identically, but similarly, respond to Arg-II, our results suggest that Arg-II could be a therapeutic target of OA pathogenesis.

Clinical Feasibility of Zero TE Skull MRI in Patients with Head Trauma in Comparison with CT: A Single-Center Study

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Conventional MR imaging techniques cannot produce optimal images of bone structures because bone has little water and a very short T2 life span. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical feasibility of skull MR imaging using the zero TE sequence in patients with head trauma by assessing its diagnostic image quality and quantitative measurement compared with CT images.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirteen enrolled patients with head trauma were assessed using brain CT and skull MR imaging. Image quality was graded on a 5-point Likert scale to compare the 2 modalities. To evaluate quantitative analyses between the 2 imaging modalities, we measured skull thickness and normalized bone tissue signal. Interobserver reliability was assessed using weighted κ statistics and the intraclass correlation coefficient.

RESULTS

Both imaging techniques clearly depicted skull fractures in all 13 patients. The mean scores for skull MR imaging and CT were 4.65 ± 0.56 and 4.73 ± 0.45 (P = .157), respectively, with substantial interobserver agreement (P < .05). The 2 imaging modalities showed no difference in skull thickness (P = .092) and had good correlation (r ² = 0.997). The mean value of normalized bone tissue signal among the 3 layers of the skull was relatively consistent (P = .401) with high interobserver agreement (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Zero TE skull MR imaging has diagnostic image quality comparable with that of CT images. It also provides consistent results on the quantitative measurement of cortical bone with CT images.

Carbon monoxide-induced TFEB nuclear translocation enhances mitophagy/mitochondrial biogenesis in hepatocytes and ameliorates inflammatory liver injury

Carbon monoxide (CO) can confer protection against cellular stress, whereas the potential involvement of autophagy and lysosomal biogenesis remains incompletely understood. We demonstrate here that the activation of protein kinase R (PKR)-like endoplasmic reticulum (ER) kinase (PERK) with CO increased the nuclear translocation of transcription factor EB (TFEB). PERK activation by CO increased intracellular Ca²⁺ concentration and the phosphatase activity of calcineurin against TFEB. Moreover, we found that in the deficiency of TFEB, CO not only failed to recruit Parkin to the mitochondria but also failed to increase expression of lysosomal genes such as Lamp1, CathB, and TPP1. Therefore, we suggest that CO increases mitophagy through TFEB nuclear translocation by PERK-calcinuerin activation. In addition, the inhibition of TFEB with siRNA against TFEB abrogated the increase of mtDNA with CO, markers of mitochondrial biogenesis such as PGC1α, NRF1, and TFAM, and the mitochondrial proteins COX II, COX IV, and cytochrome c. To investigate the effects of CO on mitochondrial homeostasis in vivo, mice were treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS)/d-galactosamine (D-GalN). CO inhalation reduced liver injury after challenge with LPS/GalN. Furthermore, CO inhalation increased TFEB activation, mitophagy and mitochondrial biogenesis in mice treated with LPS/GalN. Our findings describe novel mechanisms underlying CO-dependent cytoprotection in hepatocytes and liver tissue via activation of TFEB-dependent mitophagy and associated induction of both lysosomal and mitochondrial biogenesis.

BATF regulates collagen-induced arthritis by regulating T helper cell differentiation

Background

We recently demonstrated that BATF, a member of the activator protein-1 (AP-1) family, regulates osteoarthritic cartilage destruction. Here, we explored the roles and regulatory mechanisms of BATF in collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) in mice.

Methods

CIA and K/BxN serum transfer were used to generate inflammatory arthritis models in wild-type (WT) and Batf^−/− mice. RA manifestations were determined by examining CIA incidence, clinical score, synovitis, synovial hyperplasia, angiogenesis in inflamed synovium, pannus formation, bone erosion, and cartilage destruction. Immune features in RA were analyzed by examining immune cell populations and cytokine production.

Results

BATF was upregulated in the synovial tissues of joints in which inflammatory arthritis had been caused by CIA or K/BxN serum transfer. The increases in CIA incidence, clinical score, and autoantibody production in CIA-induced WT mice were completely abrogated in the corresponding Batf^−/− DBA/1 J mice. Genetic ablation of Batf also inhibited CIA-induced synovitis, synovial hyperplasia, angiogenesis in synovial tissues, pannus formation, bone erosion, and cartilage destruction. Batf knockout inhibited the differentiation of T helper (Th)17 cells and the conversion of CD4⁺Foxp3⁺ cells to CD4⁺IL-17⁺ cells. However, BATF did not modulate the functions of fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS), including the expressions of chemokines, matrix-degrading enzymes, vascular endothelial growth factor, and receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL).

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that BATF crucially mediates CIA by regulating Th cell differentiation without directly affecting the functions of FLS.

Identification of a new HLA-A*11 allele, A*11:251N

The new allele, A*11:251N, differs from A*11:01:01 by insertion of two nucleotides at position 204-205.

Abstract 2114: 3D co-culture of pancreatic tumor sphroids and stellate cells using minipillar array as a microtumor model of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma

Purpose: Tumor microenvironmental (TME) factors play important roles in cancer progression and chemoresistance by inducing epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and related mechanisms. Pancreatic stellate cell (PSC) is a highly-enriched cell type in TME of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Three dimensional (3D) tumor spheroids (TS) are considered as an in vivo-like tumor model demonstrating its clinical relevancy. We previously developed a minipillar array histochip for 3D culture and immunohistological analysis of TS in an increased throughput manner. Here, we present a minipillar-based co-culture of TS and PSC as a novel in vitro microtumor model of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Methods: Minipillar chips were obtained from MBD Co. (Cellvitro™ 55Cryo). 3D TS of Panc-1, human PDAC cells and PSCs (Sciencell) were cultured on minipillars and at the bottom of 96 well plates, respectively, as embedded in type I collagen. Changes in expression of extracellular matrix (ECM) and EMT-related factors in TS were assessed by confocal microscopy following cyrosection preparation. Results: Co-culture condition was optimized for the growth of TS, activation of PSC, and their interaction. Expression of EMT markers such as TGF-β1 and vimentin increased in co-cultured TS than mono-cultured TS. ECM remodeling as indicated by increased matrix deposition (collagen I, fibronectin) and fiber organization was observed in TS co-cultured with PSC compared to mono-cultured TS. Upon drug exposure (gemcitabine and paclitaxel), survival advantage was prominent in TS co-cultured with activated PSC. Conclusions: We established 3D model of PDAC by co-culturing TS and PSC using minipillar histochips. EMT-related changes including ECM remodeling and drug resistance were recapitulated in the model. Overall our results indicate usefulness of the present model not only in studying the role of TME factors and their interactions towards tumor progression but also in the evaluation of therapeutic efficacy of drug candidates and combinations.

Citation Format: Hyun Ju Hwang, Min-Suk Oh, Seul-Ki Kim, Hyo-Jeong Kuh. 3D co-culture of pancreatic tumor sphroids and stellate cells using minipillar array as a microtumor model of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2018; 2018 Apr 14-18; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 2114.

Skin photorejuvenation effects of light-emitting diodes (LEDs): a comparative study of yellow and red LEDs in vitro and in vivo

BACKGROUND

Red-coloured light-emitting diodes (LEDs) can improve skin photorejuvenation and regeneration by increasing cellular metabolic activity.

AIM

To evaluate the effectiveness of visible LEDs with specific wavelengths for skin photorejuvenation in vitro and in vivo.

METHODS

Normal human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) from neonatal foreskin were cultured and irradiated in vitro by LEDs at different wavelengths (410-850 nm) and doses (0-10 J/cm(2) ). In vivo experiments were performed on the skin of hairless mice. Expression of collagen (COL) and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) was evaluated by semi-quantitative reverse transcription PCR (semi-qRT-PCR), western blotting and a procollagen type I C-peptide enzyme immunoassay (EIA). Haematoxylin and eosin and Masson trichrome stains were performed to evaluate histological changes.

RESULTS

In HDFs, COL I was upregulated and MMP-1 was downregulated in response to LED irradiation at 595 ± 2 and 630 ± 8 nm. In the EIA, a peak result was achieved at a dose of 5 J/cm(2) with LED at 595 ± 2 nm. In vivo, COL I synthesis was upregulated in a dose-dependent manner to both 595 and 630 nm LED irradiation, and this effect was prolonged to 21 days after a single irradiation with a dose of 100 J/cm(2) . These histological changes were consistent with the results of semi-qRT-PCR and western blots.

CONCLUSION

Specific LED treatment with 595 ± 2 and 630 ± 8 nm irradiation was able to modulate COL and MMPs in skin, with the effects persisting for at least 21 days after irradiation. These findings suggest that yellow and red LEDs might be useful tools for skin photorejuvenation.

Microfluidic co-culture of pancreatic tumor spheroids with stellate cells as a novel 3D model for investigation of stroma-mediated cell motility and drug resistance

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs), a major component of the tumor microenvironment in pancreatic cancer, play roles in cancer progression as well as drug resistance. Culturing various cells in microfluidic (microchannel) devices has proven to be a useful in studying cellular interactions and drug sensitivity. Here we present a microchannel plate-based co-culture model that integrates tumor spheroids with PSCs in a three-dimensional (3D) collagen matrix to mimic the tumor microenvironment in vivo by recapitulating epithelial-mesenchymal transition and chemoresistance.

METHODS

A 7-channel microchannel plate was prepared using poly-dimethylsiloxane (PDMS) via soft lithography. PANC-1, a human pancreatic cancer cell line, and PSCs, each within a designated channel of the microchannel plate, were cultured embedded in type I collagen. Expression of EMT-related markers and factors was analyzed using immunofluorescent staining or Proteome analysis. Changes in viability following exposure to gemcitabine and paclitaxel were measured using Live/Dead assay.

RESULTS

PANC-1 cells formed 3D tumor spheroids within 5 days and the number of spheroids increased when co-cultured with PSCs. Culture conditions were optimized for PANC-1 cells and PSCs, and their appropriate interaction was confirmed by reciprocal activation shown as increased cell motility. PSCs under co-culture showed an increased expression of α-SMA. Expression of EMT-related markers, such as vimentin and TGF-β, was higher in co-cultured PANC-1 spheroids compared to that in mono-cultured spheroids; as was the expression of many other EMT-related factors including TIMP1 and IL-8. Following gemcitabine exposure, no significant changes in survival were observed. When paclitaxel was combined with gemcitabine, a growth inhibitory advantage was prominent in tumor spheroids, which was accompanied by significant cytotoxicity in PSCs.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated that cancer cells grown as tumor spheroids in a 3D collagen matrix and PSCs co-cultured in sub-millimeter proximity participate in mutual interactions that induce EMT and drug resistance in a microchannel plate. Microfluidic co-culture of pancreatic tumor spheroids with PSCs may serve as a useful model for studying EMT and drug resistance in a clinically relevant manner.

Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion and plasticity of the posterior cerebral artery following permanent bilateral common carotid artery occlusion

Vascular dementia (VaD) is a group of heterogeneous diseases with the common feature of cerebral hypoperfusion. To identify key factors contributing to VaD pathophysiology, we performed a detailed comparison of Wistar and Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats subjected to permanent bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (BCCAo). Eight-week old male Wistar and SD rats underwent BCCAo, followed by a reference memory test using a five-radial arm maze with tactile cues. Continuous monitoring of cerebral blood flow (CBF) was performed with a laser Doppler perfusion imaging (LDPI) system. A separate cohort of animals was sacrificed for evaluation of the brain vasculature and white matter damage after BCCAo. We found reference memory impairment in Wistar rats, but not in SD rats. Moreover, our LDPI system revealed that Wistar rats had significant hypoperfusion in the brain region supplied by the posterior cerebral artery (PCA). Furthermore, Wistar rats showed more profound CBF reduction in the forebrain region than did SD rats. Post-mortem analysis of brain vasculature demonstrated greater PCA plasticity at all time points after BCCAo in Wistar rats. Finally, we confirmed white matter rarefaction that was only observed in Wistar rats. Our studies show a comprehensive and dynamic CBF status after BCCAo in Wistar rats in addition to severe PCA dolichoectasia, which correlated well with white matter lesion and memory decline.