FTY720 Nanoformulation Induces O-GlcNacylation of Synuclein to Alleviate Synucleinopathy

The post-translational modification and aggregation of alpha-synuclein are one of the major causes of Parkinson's disease (PD) regulation. In that, the phosphorylation and nitration of synuclein elevate the aggregation, while O-GlcNacylation prevents the aggregation of synuclein. The inhibition of synuclein aggregation directs the development of PD therapy. The endowed O-GlcNacylation of synuclein could be a promising strategy to inhibit synucleinopathy. Therefore, the neuroprotective chitosan-based FTY720 nanoformulation, PP2A (Protein phosphatase 2) activator has been employed to evaluate the PP2A role in the O-GlcNacylation of synuclein in an in vivo PD model. The neuroprotective effect of our nanoformulation is attributed to the upregulation of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), the PD therapeutic target, with behavioral improvement in animals against rotenone-induced PD deficits. The neuroprotective molecular insights revealed the camouflaged role of PP2A by endowing the OGT activity that induces O-GlcNacylation of synuclein in the reduction of synucleinopathy.

Improved Melatonin Delivery by a Size-Controlled Polydopamine Nanoformulation Attenuates Preclinical Diabetic Retinopathy

Oxidative stress, reactive oxygen species generation, and overexpression of VEGF are signatory events in diabetic retinopathy. The downregulation of VEGF and anti-inflammatory action pave the way for diabetic retinopathy (DR) therapy. In that, lower absorption kinetics of melatonin limits its immense therapeutic potential. Hence, we have demonstrated a reverse microemulsion method to synthesize melatonin-loaded polydopamine nanoparticles to replenish both at a single platform with an improved melatonin delivery profile. The study has evaluated in vitro and in vivo protection efficiency of biocompatible melatonin-loaded polydopamine nanoparticles (MPDANPs). The protection mechanism was explained by downregulation of VEGF, CASPASE3, and PKCδ against high-glucose/streptozotocin (STZ)-induced insults, in vitro and in vivo. The anti-inflammatory and antiangiogenic effect and potential of MPDANPs to enhance melatonin in vivo stability with prolonged circulation time have proved MPDANPs as a potential therapeutic candidate in DR management. The DR therapeutic potential of MPDANPs has been arbitrated by improving the bioavailability of melatonin and inhibition of VEGF-PKCδ crosstalk in vivo.

Reconstituted Super Paramagnetic Protein "Magnetotransferrin" for Brain Targeting to Attenuate Parkinsonism

Transferrin is an iron transporting protein consisting of bilobal protein shells (apotransferrin) with dual domains in each lobe, holding an interdomain iron binding cleft. This cleft is useful in synthesizing an iron oxide core inside the transferrin shell. In vitro reconstitution chemistry provides a nano-dimensional synthesis of the mineral core inside the protein shell. The present study demonstrates the synthesis of magnetotransferrin with reconstitution of apotransferrin to form iron oxide nanoparticles within the transferrin. Transmission electron microscopy investigations along with analysis of electronic diffraction patterns and magnetometry studies indicate entrapment of superparamagnetic iron (III) oxide nanoparticles. In vivo/ex vivo imaging of the brain and immunogold staining of brain sections further validate the brain targeting potential of "magnetotransferrin". The in vivo therapeutic potential of magneto transferrin has been demonstrated by induction of TRPV1 magnetic stimuli protein, having an important regulatory role in Parkinsonism management. In an exploration of neuroprotective mechanisms, deacetylation of H3K27 of synuclein has been revealed through the TRPV1-mediated HDAC3 activation in the treatment of Parkinsonism. Thus, this magnetic protein could be a potent candidate for brain targeting, bio-imaging, and therapy of neurological infirmities.

Nanoemulsified Genistein and Vitamin D Mediated Epigenetic Regulation to Inhibit Osteoporosis

The imbalance in the bone remodeling process with more bone resorption by osteoclasts compared to bone formation by osteoblasts results in a metabolic bone disorder known as osteoporosis. This condition reduces the bone mineral density and increases the risk of fractures due to low bone mass and disrupted bone microarchitecture. Osteoclastogenesis increases when the receptor activator NFκB ligand (RANKL) on the osteoblast surface binds to the receptor activator NFκB (RANK) on the osteoclast surface and the function of the decoy receptor of RANKL, osteoprotegrin, is compromised due to external stimuli such as heparin and lipopolysaccharides. The RANK/RANKL axis promotes the nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) expression, which in turn increases the histone methyltransferase activity of EzH2 and EzH1 for the epigenetic regulation of osteoclastogenesis-related genes. Genistein counteracts NFκB-induced osteoclastogenesis and downstream signaling through the direct regulation of histone methyltransferase, EzH2 and EzH1, transcription. However, genistein possesses limitations like low bioavailability, low water solubility, high estrogen activity, and thyroid side effects, which obstruct its therapeutic usage. Here, the nanoemulsified formulation of genistein with vitamin D was utilized to circumvent the limitations of genistein so that it can be utilized for therapeutic purposes in osteoporosis management. The nanoemulsification of genistein and vitamin D was performed through the spontaneous emulsification using Tween 80 and medium chain triglyceride oil as an organic phase. The physiologically stable and biocompatible combination of the genistein and vitamin D nanoemulsion (GVNE) exhibited the controlled release pattern of genistein with Korsmeyer-Peppas and Higuchi models under different pH conditions (7.4, 6.5, and 1.2). The GVNE potentially enhanced the therapeutic efficacy under in vitro osteoporosis models and helped restore disease parameters like alkaline phosphatase activity, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase activity, and the formation of multinuclear giant cells. Molecularly, the GVNE overturned the LPS-induced osteoclastogenesis by downregulation of NFκB expression along with its binding on EzH2 and EzH1 promoters. GVNE effects on the osteoporosis model established it as an efficient antiosteoporotic therapy. This nanonutraceutical-based formulation provides an epigenetic regulation of osteoporosis management and opens new avenues for alternate epigenetic therapies for osteoporosis.

Mitochondria-targeting nano therapy altering IDH2-mediated EZH2/EZH1 interaction as precise epigenetic regulation in glioblastoma

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a complex brain cancer with frequent relapses and high mortality and still awaits effective treatment. Mitochondria dysfunction is a pathogenic condition in GBM and could be a prime therapeutic target for ceasing GBM progression. Strategies to overcome brain solid tumor barriers and selectively target mitochondria within specific cell types may improve GBM treatment. Here, we present hypericin-conjugated gold nanoparticles (PEG-AuNPs@Hyp) where hypericin is a mitochondrion-targeting agent exhibiting multimodal therapy by critically impacting the IDH2 gene (Isocitrate dehydrogenase) and its interaction with polycomb methyltransferase EZH1/2 for GBM therapy. It significantly localizes in mitochondria by enhanced cellular uptake in the human GBM cell lines/three-dimensional (3D) culture model under red-light exposure. It triggers oxidative stress and changes the mitochondrial potential, with increased Bax/Bcl2 ratio enhancing GBM cell death. The suppressed expression of mutated IDH2 and polycomb group of proteins upon PEG-AuNPs@Hyp/light exposure regulates mitochondria-targeting-mediated GBM metabolism with epigenetic repression of complex machinery function. Polyubiquitination and proteasomal degradation of EZH1 indicate the implication of these polycomb proteins in GBM progression. Chromatin immunoprecipitation reveals the IDH2 and EZH1/EZH2 direct interaction, confirming the role played by IDH2 in modulating the expression of EZH1 and EZH2. In vivo studies further displayed better tumor ablation in a GBM tumor-bearing nude mouse model. The present multimodal nanoformulation compromised the functional dependency of polycomb on mitochondrial IDH2 and established the mechanism of GBM inhibition.

Melatonin mediated inhibition of EZH2-NOS2 crosstalk attenuates inflammatory bowel disease in preclinical in vitro and in vivo models

AIMS

Inflammatory Bowel Disease is characterised by abdominal pain, diarrhoea, rectal bleeding and weight loss. Sometimes it may leads to severe health complications resulting in death of an individual. Current research efforts to highlight the role of melatonin in regulating EZH2, a master epigenetic regulator and its beneficiary effect in case of IBD management.

MATERIAL METHODS

Murine macrophages (RAW 264.7) were treated with lipopolysaccharides (LPS) to activate them for generating inflammatory response to investigate efficacy of melatonin in-vitro models. Similarly, for developing in vivo models, Dextran sodium sulphate (36-50 kDa) was used. Evaluations of anti-inflammatory activities were carried out by nitrite assay, western blotting, q-PCR, immunofluorescence, and histological studies.

KEY FINDINGS

Reduction of epigenetic target, EZH2 by melatonin significantly improves the clinical symptoms of dextran sodium sulphate induced colitis and may be implicated as a potential therapeutic target in IBD management. The present study evaluates the efficacy of melatonin by epigenetic regulation in IBD models. Down regulation of EZH2 by melatonin reduced the chemical induced inflammatory insults in in vitro and in vivo models. Exploration of molecular pathways has revealed interlink of EZH2 and NOS2, a hallmark of inflammation. Molecular mechanistic action of melatonin is attributed to inhibition of the expression and physical interaction of EZH2 and NOS2.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our study highlights melatonin therapeutic effect via attenuating interaction between EZH2 and NOS2 which is beneficial in managing IBD treatment.

Colon targeted chitosan-melatonin nanotherapy for preclinical Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory Bowel (IBD) is an umbrella term which includes Crohn's Disease (CD) and Ulcerative Colitis (UC). At present, therapies available for management of the UC includes, corticosteroid, immuno-suppressants and antibiotics are used for mild to moderate UC conditions which can cause nephrotoxicity, hepatotoxicity and cardiotoxicity. Hence, a novel therapeutic candidate having potent anti-inflammatory effect is urgently warranted for the management of UC. Melatonin has emerged as a potent anti-inflammatory agent. However, poor solubility limits its therapeutic potential. Therefore, colon targeted Eudragit-S-100 coated chitosan nanoparticles have been demonstrated to improve melatonin therapeutic efficacy. It was found that melatonin loaded chitosan and colon targeted chitosan nanoparticles had promising anti-inflammatory efficacy in terms of NO scavenging activity in an in-vitro LPS challenged macrophages. Also, colon targeted oral chitosan nano-formulation exhibited remarkable protection in an in vivo UC mice model by improving gross pathological parameters, histo-architectural protection, goblet cell depletion, and immune cells infiltration which can be extrapolated to clinical studies.

Hytrin loaded polydopamine-serotonin nanohybrid induces IDH2 mediated neuroprotective effect to alleviate Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most neurodegenerative disease caused due to synucleinopathy leads to the death of dopaminergic and serotonergic neurons. The approach to reduce synucleinopathy paves the therapeutic way in PD management. Recent studies highlight anti-Parkinsonism effect of Hytrin that regulates energy homeostasis via activation of mitochondrial redox regulator; IDH2 leading to attenuation of synucleinopathy. However, the burst release kinetics of Hytrin restricts its therapeutic potential. Therefore, we aimed to improve Hytrin release kinetics through nanocarrier mediated delivery, replenish dopamine and serotonin by formulating Hytrin loaded polydopamine serotonin nanohybrid for PD protection. Present study also explores IDH2 mediated neuroprotective action in retardation of synucleinopathy for PD prevention. Nanoformulation has shown effective neurotherapeutic potential by improving Hytrin release profile in the reduction of PD symptoms in vitro and ex vivo. The neuroprotective effect has been attributed to IDH2 induction and alpha-synuclein reduction against rotenone insults. The direct physical interaction of IDH2 and alpha-synuclein, PD hallmark has been uncovered. The study divulges that the restorative effect of our nanoformulation significantly retards the PD deficits byinducing IDH2 mediated alpha-synuclein ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation pathway.

Coupled catalytic dephosphorylation and complex phosphate ion-exchange in networked hierarchical lanthanum carbonate grafted asymmetric bio-composite membrane

The remediation of non-reactive phosphate pollutants in the aquatic system is essential for protecting the ecological niche. In this work, a highly robust protein nanoparticles networked rare-earth metal carbonate-grafted bio-composite membrane (abbreviated as REMC) was fabricated via chemical crosslinking of three-dimensional (3D) hierarchical lanthanum carbonate (mREM) and casein nanoparticles (CsNPs) for selective rejection of non-reactive phosphates. The main components of the REMC membrane are mREM and CsNPs, which were prepared via SDS/CTAB templated homogeneous precipitation and the coacervation/desolvation hybrid method, respectively. The active lanthanum ion (La³⁺) on the 3D spherulitic surface of mREM exhibited excellent phosphate adsorption capacity (maximum adsorption capacity was 358 mg.g^-1) across a wide pH range and in a multi-ionic environment. A series of batch testing and characterizations revealed that the active La³⁺ and dominating phosphate centers in the REMC membrane framework enable non-enzymatic phosphatase-like activity, cleaving the phosphate ester bond of organic phosphates and releasing free phosphate anions. These released phosphate ions are retained in the REMC membrane via an ion exchange mechanism, where they contribute to improved phosphate removal capacities. Furthermore, CsNPs have a dual function in the membrane, acting as a matrix in the REMC membrane framework and contributing to phosphate ion sequestrations in a synergistic manner. The catalysis of para-nitrophenyl phosphates (pNPP) to paranitrophenol (pNP) in a sequential dephosphorylation by REMC offers an estimate of reaction kinetics and elucidates the underlying mechanism of improved phosphate selectivity in a multi-ionic environment. Furthermore, phosphate specificity, homogeneous binding capacity, reusability, and visual observation of REMC membrane saturation binding direct it's useful economic, industrial applications in aqueous phosphate contaminant removal, which could be beneficial for the active recovery of the aquatic ecosystem.

Alpha-ketoglutarate decorated iron oxide-gold core-shell nanoparticles for active mitochondrial targeting and radiosensitization enhancement in hepatocellular carcinoma

The ability of some tumours to impart radioresistance serves as a barrier in the cancer therapeutics. Mitochondrial metabolism significantly persuades this cancer cell survival, incursion and plays a crucial role in conferring radioresistance. It would be of great importance to target the active mitochondria to overcome this resistance and achieve tumoricidal efficacy. The current report investigates the improved radiosensitization effect (under Gamma irradiation) in hepatocellular carcinoma through active mitochondrial targeting of alpha-ketoglutarate decorated iron oxide-gold core-shell nanoparticles (GNP). The loading of a chemotherapeutic drug N-(4-hydroxyphenyl)retinamide in GNP allows adjuvant chemotherapy, which further sensitizes cancerous cells for radiotherapy. The GNP shows a drug loading efficiency of 8.5 wt% with a sustained drug release kinetics. The X-Ray diffraction (XRD) pattern and High-Resolution Transmission Electron microscopy (HRTEM) indicates the synthesis of core iron oxide nanoparticles with indications of a thin layer of gold shell on the surface with 1:7 ratios of Fe: Au. The GNP application significantly reduced per cent cell viability in Hepatocellular carcinoma cells through improved radiosensitization at 5 Gy gamma radiation dose. The molecular mechanism revealed a sharp increment in reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and DNA fragmentation. The mitochondrial targeting probes confirm the presence of GNP in the mitochondria, which could be the possible reason for such improved cellular damage. In addition to the active mitochondrial targeting, the currently fabricated nanoparticles work as a potent Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)/Computed Tomography (CT) contrast agent. This multifunctional therapeutic potential makes GNP as one of the most promising theragnostic molecules in cancer therapeutics.

Clinical Presentation, Management and In-Hospital Outcome of COVID-19 among Non-Healthcare Personnel and Healthcare Personnel in a Tertiary Cardiac Care Hospital

The huge numbers of non-healthcare personnel (non-HCP) who get infected by corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) not only paralyze health care systems but also put health care personnel (HCP) at potential risk globally. Objective of the study was to compare the Healthcare personnel (HCP) and non-HCP COVID-19 cases. This prospective observational study was carried out in National Heart Foundation Hospital and Research Institute of Bangladesh from March 08, 2020 to July 20, 2020. During this study period all admitted non-HCP who subsequently was diagnosed as COVID-19 positive by rRT-PCR and HCP of this hospital, who experienced fever or respiratory symptoms or came in close contact with COVID-19 patients at home or their workplace and become COVID-19 positive, were included. Out of 320 infected patients, 181(56.6%) patients were non-HCP and 139(43.4%) were HCP. Non-HCP were older than HCP (Mean age: 52.95±13.82 years vs. 34.08±11.11 years; p=0.001). Non-HCP were predominantly male and HCP were predominantly female (73.5% vs. 41% & 26.5% vs. 59%; p=0.001). Non-HCP had more risk factors and co-morbidities than HCP (p=0.001). Typical symptoms of COVID-19 such as fever and cough were prevalent in HCP. More aggressive treatment was required for non-HCP. Non-HCP had more severe disease and higher case fatality rate (9.4% vs. 0.7%; p=0.001) than HCP. Disease severity (OR 0.03, 95% CI 0.01-0.15) and DM (OR 0.09, 95% CI 0.01-0.94) were the independent predictor of mortality. Non-HCP was older in age, predominantly male and had more co-morbidities than HCP. Typical symptoms of COVID-19 were prevalent in HCP. Non-HCP had more severe disease and higher case fatality rate than HCP.

Pre-coating of protein modulate patterns of corona formation, physiological stability and cytotoxicity of silver nanoparticles

Surface functionalization on silver nanoparticles greatly affects the dynamics of protein corona formation. In the present study, the implications of protein pre-coating on corona formation and nanoparticle's physiological stability, cellular uptake and toxicity were studied on similar sized alkaline protease coated nanoparticles of biological and chemical origin along with the uncoated nanoparticle as compared to the albumin coated nanoparticles. All four nanoparticle types invited serum protein adsorption on their surface. However, the presence of protein pre-coating on nanoparticle surface significantly reduced the extent of further protein binding. Moreover, corona formation on pristine nanoparticles significantly improved their stability in the biological medium. The effect was found to be diluted in protein pre-coated nanoparticles with due exception. Results obtained in the cell-based experiment suggested that the nanoparticles binding to the cell, its uptake, and toxicity in different cell lines can be directly linked to their physiological stability owing to corona formation.

Melatonin-loaded chitosan nanoparticles endows nitric oxide synthase 2 mediated anti-inflammatory activity in inflammatory bowel disease model

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a complex inflammatory condition arising due to interactions of environmental and genetic factors that lead to dysregulated immune response and inflammation in intestine. Complementary and alternative medicine approaches have been utilized to treat IBD. However, chronic inflammatory diseases are not medically curable. Hence, potent anti-inflammatory therapeutic agents are urgently warranted. Melatonin has emerged as a potent anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective candidate. Although, it's therapeutic efficacy is compromised due to less solubility and rapid clearance. Hence, we have synthesized melatonin loaded chitosan nanoparticle (Mel-CSNPs) to improve drug release profile and evaluate its in-vitro and in-vivo therapeutic efficacy. Mel-CSNPs exhibited better anti-inflammatory response in an in-vitro and in-vivo IBD model. Significant anti-inflammatory activity of Mel-CSNPs is attributed to nitric oxide (NO) reduction, inhibited nuclear translocation of NF-kB p65 and reduced IL-1β and IL-6 expression. In-vivo biodistribution study has shown a good distribution profile. Effective in-vivo therapeutic efficiency of Mel-CSNPs has been confirmed with reduced disease activity index parameters and inhibited neutrophilic infiltration. Histological evaluation has further proved the protective effect of Mel-CSNPs by preventing crypt damage and immune cells infiltration against Dextran Sodium Sulphate induced insults. Immuno-histochemical analysis has confirmed anti-inflammatory action of Mel-CSNPs with reduction of inflammatory markers, Nitric Oxide Synthase-2 (NOS2) and Nitro-tyrosine. Indeed, this study divulges anti-inflammatory activity of Mel-CSNPs by improving the therapeutic potential of melatonin.

Genistein nanoformulation promotes selective apoptosis in oral squamous cell carcinoma through repression of 3PK-EZH2 signalling pathway

BACKGROUND

Overexpression of polycomb protein contributes to epigenetic repression in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) ensuing in poor prognosis and aggressive phenotype. Several plant-based compounds could help prevent epigenome alteration and cancer progression, but their low bioavailability limits their therapeutic activity.

HYPOTHESIS

In this study, we have synthesized genistein nanoformulation (GLNPs) and evaluated its epigenetic regulation mechanism for selective apoptosis induction in OSCC.

METHODS

Lactalbumin was used to prepare nanoformulation of Genistein. The mechanism of epigenetic regulation and selective apoptosis by Genistein loaded nanoparticles was studied in OSCC cell line JHU011 and fibroblast cell line L929 using immunofluorescence, Western blotting and ChIP-qPCR assay.

RESULTS

We have found that GLNPs treatment selectively induced apoptosis in OSCC compared to the normal fibroblast cells. This selective effect in OSCC is achieved through enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation followed by Bax mitochondrial translocation and caspase 3 activation. Further, GLNPs induced withdrawal of epigenetic transcription repression through concurrent downregulation of the polycomb group proteins (PcG) Bmi 1 and EZH2 along with their successive targets, UbH2AK119 and H3K27me3, which have immense therapeutic implications in the treatment of OSCC. Last, we have established that GLNPs regulate EZH2expression through proteasomal mediated degradation and 3PK inhibition; 3PK protein was found physically linked with EZH2 protein and its promoter region (-1107 to -1002). This event indicates that 3PK might play some crucial role in EZH2 expression and epigenetic control of OSCC. Moreover, the formulation showed improved biodistribution, aqueous dispersibility and enhanced biocompatibility In-vivo.

CONCLUSIONS

These results provide evidence that GLNPs may withdraw epigenetic transcriptional repression and selectively induce apoptosis in human oral squamous cell carcinoma.

Chitosan nanocarrier for FTY720 enhanced delivery retards Parkinson's disease via PP2A-EzH2 signaling in vitro and ex vivo

Parkinson's disease (PD) develops due to oxidative stress, mitochondrial aberrations, posttranslational modification, and α-Synuclein (α-Syn) aggregation. The α-synucleinopathy is attributed to phosphorylation and aggregation of α-Syn. A strategy to degrade or reduce phosphorylated protein paves the way to develop PD therapy. Hence, the neuroprotective efficiency of PP2A (Protein phosphatase 2) activator FTY720, loaded chitosan nanoformulation has been evaluated in vitro and ex vivo experimental PD models. Bio-compatible chitosan-based nanocarriers have been utilized to enhance the bio-availability and neuroprotective effect of FTY720. The neuroprotective effect of characterized nanoformulation was determined by the downregulation of PD hallmark phospho-serine 129 (pSer129) α-Syn, with anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory potentials. The neuroprotective mechanism uncovered novel physical interaction of PP2A and polycomb group of protein Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 to mediate ubiquitination and degradation of agglomerated pSer129 α-Syn. Indeed, this study establishes the neuroprotective potential of chitosan based FTY720 nanoformulations by PP2A mediated epigenetic regulation for PD prevention.

Neuronal Bmi-1 is critical for melatonin induced ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation of α-synuclein in experimental Parkinson's disease models

Epigenetic polycomb repressor complex-1 subunit BMI-1 plays a pivotal role in the process of gene repression to maintain the self-renewal and differentiation state of neurogenic tissues. Accumulating reports links lower expression of BMI-1 fails to regulate the repression of anti-oxidant response genes disrupt mitochondrial homeostasis underlying neurodegeneration. Interestingly, this negative relation between BMI-1 function and neurodegeneration is distinct but has not been generalized as a potential biomarker particularly in Parkinson's disease (PD). Hyperphosphorylated BMI-1 undergoes canonical polycomb E3 ligase function loss, thereby leads to reduce monoubiquitylation of histone 2A at lysine 119 (H2AK119ub) corroborates cellular accumulation of α-synuclein protein phosphorylated at serine 129 (pα-SYN (S129). In general, neuroprotectant suppressing pα-SYN (S129) level turns ineffective upon depletion of neuronal BMI-1. However, it has been observed that our neuroprotectant exposure suppresses the cellular pα-SYN (S129) and restore the the BMI-1 expression level in neuronal tissues. The pharmacological inhibition and activation of proteasomal machinery promote the cellular accumulation and degradation of neuronal pα-SYN (S129), respectively. Furthermore, our investigation reveals that accumulated pα-SYN (S129) are priorly complexed with BMI-1 undergoes ubiquitin-dependent proteasomal degradation and established as key pathway for therpeutic effect in PD. These findings linked the unestablished non-canonical role of BMI-1 in the clearance of pathological α-SYN and suspected to be a novel therapeutic target in PD.

A non-viral nano-delivery system targeting epigenetic methyltransferase EZH2 for precise acute myeloid leukemia therapy

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML), which is common in the elderly population, accounts for poor long-term survival with a high possibility of relapse. The associated lack of currently developed therapeutics is directing the search for new therapeutic targets relating to AML. EZH2 (Enhancer of Zeste Homolog 2) is a histone methyltransferase member of the polycomb-group (PcG) family, and its significant overexpression in AML means it has emerged as a potential epigenetic target. Here, we propose the human serum albumin (HSA) nanoparticle based delivery of small interfering RNA (siRNA), which can target EZH2-expressing genes in AML. EZH2 specific siRNA loaded in a polyethyleneimine (PEI) conjugated HSA nanocarrier can overcome the systemic instability of siRNA and precisely target the AML cell population for increased EZH2 gene silencing. A stable nanosized complex (HSANPs-PEI@EZH2siRNA), achieved via the electrostatic interaction of PEI and EZH2 siRNA, shows increased systemic stability and hemocompatibility, and enhanced EZH2 gene silencing activity in vitro, compared to conventional transfection reagents. HSANPs-PEI@EZH2siRNA-treated AML cells showed downregulated EZH2, which is associated with a reduced level of Bmi-1 protein, and H3K27me3 and H2AK119ub modification. The ubiquitin-mediated proteasomal degradation pathway plays a critical role in the downregulation of associated proteins following HSANPs-PEI@EZH2siRNA exposure to AML cells. c-Myb is the AML-responsive transcription factor that directly binds on the EZH2 promoter and was downregulated in HSANPs-PEI@EZH2siRNA-treated AML cells. The systemic exposure to HSANPs-PEI@EZH2siRNA of AML engrafted immunodeficient nude mice displayed efficient EZH2 gene silencing and a reduced AML cell population in peripheral blood and bone marrow. The present study demonstrates a non-viral siRNA delivery system for epigenetic targeting based superior anti-leukemic therapy.

Epigenetic Regulation of Bmi1 by Ubiquitination and Proteasomal Degradation Inhibit Bcl-2 in Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Bmi1 is associated with advanced prognosis of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and polyethylenimine (PEI)-stabilized Bmi1 siRNA-entrapped human serum albumin (HSA) nanocarriers (PEI@HSANCs) were used to protect siRNA from degradation and also to control epigenetic regulation-based AML therapy. The nanoform increased the transfection efficiency of Bmi1 siRNA through caveolae-mediated endocytosis and enhanced Bax translocation into the mitochondria. It enhanced the caspase 3-mediated apoptosis through the Bax activation and Bcl-2 inhibition. The molecular analysis reveals the downregulation of polycomb proteins, Bmi1 and EzH2, along with inhibition of H3K27me3 and H2AK119ub1. The signaling cascade revealed downregulation of Bmi1 through ubiquitin-mediated degradation and is reversed by a proteasome inhibitor. Further mechanistic studies established a crucial role of transcription factor, C-Myb and Bmi1, as its direct targets for maintenance and progression of AML. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay confirmed Bmi1 as a direct target of C-Myb as it binds to promoter sequence of Bmi1 between -235 to +43 and -111 to +43. The in vivo studies performed in the AML xenograft model evidence a decrease in the population of leukemic stem cells marker (CD45⁺) and an increase in the myeloid differentiating marker expression (CD11b⁺) in the bone marrow after the Bmi1 siRNA nanoconjugated therapy. Activation of apoptotic pathways and withdrawal of epigenetic repression through a ubiquitin proteasomal pathway potentiating a novel antileukemic therapy were established.

κ-carrageenan-C-phycocyanin based smart injectable hydrogels for accelerated wound recovery and real-time monitoring

Wound healing remains a healthcare challenge in patients suffering from grave tissue damage due to burn injuries and severe medical conditions like diabetes and ischemia. A repeated wound dressing in such cases leads to tissue damage, which could further inflate the wound healing. It is also challenging to analyze the depth of wound bed in these conditions, which could affect the recovery period. To address this need, we have developed an injectable hydrogel from natural polysaccharide κ-carrageenan and a pigmented protein C-phycocyanin. C-phycocyanin has wound healing, antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties along with the In-vivo fluorescence imaging ability. Gelling property of κ-carrageenan could be utilized along with C-phycocyanin as an injectable and regenerative wound dressings matrix to monitor wound healing in real-time without upsetting the healing process. The hydrogel presented herein was built from ionic crosslinking of κ-carrageenan monomers along with C-phycocyanin, which provides an interconnected network of porous material with hydrophilic surface and mechanical stiffness. This porosity allows nutrients transportation and gaseous exchange across the wound healing site for the proliferation of various cells. Hydrogel material enhances the proliferation of dermal fibroblasts in vitro without inducing inflammation along with reducing the blood clotting time with no haemolysis. We have found that κ-carrageenan-C-phycocyanin (κ-CRG-C-Pc) hydrogel not only exhibit superior haemostatic capabilities in traumatic injury condition but also provide support for rapid wound healing. Overall, these findings demonstrate the potential of κ-carrageenan-C-phycocyanin hydrogels as a wound-healing and imaging platform towards accelerating tissue repair and real-time monitoring. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Blood clotting and inflammation are the most crucial stages of wound healing along with appropriate monitoring of the healing process. Thus, there is a need of system that could provide point-to-point care and monitoring in this multistage process. Here, we have introduced a self healing, injectable hydrogel system with in vivo imaging abilities from κ-carragenan and C-phycocyanin. C-phycocyanin improves the stability of κ-carragenan matrix and provide support to cellular adhesion, proliferation, and migration. Its anti-inflammatory response and rapid blood clotting ability further empower its applicability in critical medical conditions and wound recovery.

Near-Infrared Responsive Dopamine/Melatonin-Derived Nanocomposites Abrogating in Situ Amyloid β Nucleation, Propagation, and Ameliorate Neuronal Functions

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the common causes of dementia and mild cognitive impairments, which is progressively expanding among the elderly population worldwide. A short Amyloid-β (Aβ) peptide generated after amyloidogenic processing of amyloid precursor protein exist as intermolecular β-sheet rich oligomeric, protofibriler, and fibrillar structures and believe to be toxic species which instigate neuronal pathobiology in the brain and deposits as senile plaque. Enormous efforts are being made to develop an effective anti-AD therapy that can target Aβ processing, aggregation, and propagation and provide a synergistic neuroprotective effect. However, a nanodrug prepared from natural origin can confer a multimodal synergistic chemo/photothermal inhibition of Aβ pathobiology is not yet demonstrated. In the present work, we report a dopamine-melatonin nanocomposite (DM-NC), which possesses a synergistic near-infrared (NIR) responsive photothermal and pharmacological modality. The noncovalent interaction-mediated self-assembly of melatonin and dopamine oxidative intermediates leads to the evolution of DM-NCs that can withstand variable pH and peroxide environment. NIR-activated melatonin release and photothermal effect collectively inhibit Aβ nucleation, self-seeding, and propagation and can also disrupt the preformed Aβ fibers examined using in vitro Aβ aggregation and Aβ-misfolding cyclic amplification assays. The DM-NCs display a higher biocompatibility to neuroblastoma cells, suppress the AD-associated generation of intracellular reactive oxygen species, and are devoid of any negative impact on the axonal growth process. In okadaic acid-induced neuroblastoma and ex vivo midbrain slice culture-based AD model, DM-NCs exposure suppresses the intracellular Aβ production, aggregation, and accumulation. Therefore, this nature-derived nanocomposite demonstrates a multimodal NIR-responsive synergistic photothermal and pharmacological modality for effective AD therapy.

Melatonin/polydopamine nanostructures for collective neuroprotection-based Parkinson's disease therapy

Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra and localized deposition of cytoplasmic fibrillary inclusions as Lewy bodies in the brain. The aberrant phosphorylation of α-synuclein at serine 129 is the key process on its early onset, which alters the cellular conformation to oligomers and insoluble aggregates, underpinning cellular oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction, leading to devastating PD synucleinopathy. The multiple neuroprotective roles of dopamine and melatonin are often demonstrated separately; however, this approach suffers from low and short bioavailability and is associated with side-effects upon overdosing. Herein, highly pleiotropic melatonin-enriched polydopamine nanostructures were fabricated, which showed efficient brain tissue retention, sustainable and prolonged melatonin release, and prevented neuroblastoma cell death elicited by Parkinson's disease-associated and mitochondrial damaging stimuli. The synergistic neuroprotection re-established the mitochondrial membrane potential, reduced the generation of cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), inhibited the activation of both the caspase-dependent and independent apoptotic pathways, and exhibited an anti-inflammatory effect. At the molecular level, it suppressed α-synuclein phosphorylation at Ser 129 and reduced the cellular deposition of high molecular weight oligomers. The therapeutic assessment on ex vivo organotypic brain slice culture, and in vivo experimental PD model confirmed the superior brain targeting, collective neuroprotection on dopaminergic neurons with reduced alpha-synuclein phosphorylation and deposition in the hippocampal and substantia nigra region of the brain. Thus, nature-inspired melatonin-enriched polydopamine nanostructures conferring collective neuroprotective effects attributes activation of anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic pathways may be superior for application in a nanomedicine-based PD therapy.

Recuperative effect of metformin loaded polydopamine nanoformulation promoting EZH2 mediated proteasomal degradation of phospho-α-synuclein in Parkinson's disease model

Posttranslational modification and agglomeration of α-synuclein (α-Syn), mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress and loss of dopaminergic neurons are hallmark of Parkinson's disease (PD). This paper evaluates neuroprotection efficacy of nature inspired biocompatible polydopamine nanocarrier for metformin delivery (Met encapsulated PDANPs) by crossing blood brain barrier in in vitro, 3D and in vivo experimental PD models. The neuroprotective potential was arbitrated by downregulation of phospho-serine 129 (pSer129) α-Syn, with reduction in oxidative stress, prevention of apoptosis and anti-inflammatory activities. The neuroprotective mechanism proved novel interaction of epigenetic regulator EZH2 mediated ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation of aggregated pSer129 α-Syn. In summary, this study divulges the neuroprotective role of Met loaded PDANPs by reversing the neurochemical deficits by confirming an epigenetic mediated nanotherapeutic approach for the PD prevention.

Nanostructure Endows Neurotherapeutic Potential in Optogenetics: Current Development and Future Prospects

Optogenetics have evolved as a promising tool to control the processes at a cellular level via photons. Specially, it confers a specific control over cellular function through real-time cytomodulation even in freely moving animals. Neuronal stimulation is prerequisite for deep tissue light penetration or insertion of optrode for light illumination to the neurons that have been proven to be compromised due to poor light penetration and invasiveness of the procedure, respectively. In this review, the application of nanotechnology is being elaborated by the use of metal nanoparticles (AuNPs), upconversion nanocrystals (UCNPs), and quantum dots (CdSe) for targeting particular organs or tissues, and their potential to emit a specific light on excitation to overcome the limitations associated with earlier methods has been elucidated. The optothermal and magnetothermal properties, photoluminescence, and higher photostability of nanomaterials are explored in context of therapeutic applicability of optogenetics. The nanostructure characteristics and specific ion channel targeting have shown promising therapeutic potential against neurodegenerative disorders (Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Huntington's), epilepsy, and blindness. This review compiles mechanical and optical characteristics of nanomaterials that endow superior optogenetic therapeutic potentials to cure immedicable infirmities.

A NIR-responsive indocyanine green-genistein nanoformulation to control the polycomb epigenetic machinery for the efficient combinatorial photo/chemotherapy of glioblastoma

Combinatorial photodynamics and chemotherapy have drawn enormous attention as therapeutic modalities via precise stimuli-responsive drug delivery for glioblastoma, which can overcome the limitations associated with conventional therapies. Herein, we have prepared an indocyanine green tagged, genistein encapsulated casein nanoformulation (ICG-Gen@CasNPs) that exhibits the near infra-red region responsive controlled release of genistein and enhanced cellular uptake in the human glioblastoma monolayer and a three-dimensional raft culture model via the enhanced retention effect. ICG-Gen@CasNPs, with the integrated photosensitizer indocyanine green within the nanoformulation, triggered oxidative stress, activating the apoptosis cascade, promoting cell cycle arrest and damaging the mitochondrial membrane potential, collectively directing glioblastoma cell death. The suppression of the polycomb group of proteins in the glioblastoma upon ICG-Gen@CasNPs/NIR exposure revealed the involvement of the epigenetic repression complex machinery in the regulation. Furthermore, ICG-Gen@CasNPs/PDT/PTT directed ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation of EZH2 and BMI1 indicates the implication of the polycomb in conferring glioblastoma survival. The increased activation of the apoptotic pathways and the generation of cellular reactive oxygen species upon inhibiting the expression of EZH2 and BMI1 strengthen our observations. It is worth noting that ICG-Gen@CasNPs robustly accumulated in the brain after crossing the blood-brain barrier, which represents the eminent biocompatibility and means that the system is devoid of any nonspecific toxicity in vivo. Moreover, a superior anti-tumor effect was demonstrated on a three-dimensional glioma spheroid model. Thus, this combinatorial chemo/photodynamic therapy revealed that ICG-Gen@CasNPs mediated epigenetic regulation, which is a crucial molecular mechanism of GBM suppression.

Superior Bactericidal Efficacy of Fucose-Functionalized Silver Nanoparticles against Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 and Prevention of Its Colonization on Urinary Catheters

Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a Gram-negative rod-shaped bacterium is a notorious pathogen causing chronic infections. Its ability to form antibiotic-resistant biofilm has raised the need for the development of alternative treatment approaches. An ideal alternate can be silver nanoparticles known for their strong yet tunable bactericidal activity. However, their use in commercial in vivo medicine could not see the light of the day because of the unwanted toxicity of silver in the host cells at higher concentrations. Thus, strategies which can modulate the bacterial cell-silver nanoparticle interactions thereby reducing the amount of nanoparticles required to kill a typical number of bacterial cells are utmost welcomed. The current work showcases one such strategy by functionalizing the silver nanoparticles with l-fucose to increase their interactions with the LecB lectins present on P. aeruginosa PAO1. The advantage of this approach lies in the higher bactericidal and antibiofilm activity of fucose-functionalized silver nanoparticles (FNPs) as compared to the citrate-capped silver nanoparticles (CNPs) of similar size and concentrations. The superior bactericidal potential of FNPs as demonstrated by fluorescence-assisted cell sorting, confocal laser scanning microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy analyses may be attributed to the higher reactive oxygen species generation and oxidative membrane damage. Additionally, FNPs prevented the formation of biofilms by downregulating the expression of various virulence genes at lower concentrations as compared to CNPs. The practical applicability of the approach was demonstrated by preventing bacterial colonization on artificial silicone rubber surfaces. These results can be extrapolated in the treatment of catheter-associated urinary tract infections caused by P. aeruginosa. In conclusion, the present work strongly advocates the use of antivirulence targets and their corresponding binding residues for the augmentation of the bactericidal effect of silver nanoparticles.

Nanomelatonin triggers superior anticancer functionality in a human malignant glioblastoma cell line

Melatonin (MEL) has promising medicinal value as an anticancer agent in a variety of malignancies, but there are difficulties in achieving a therapeutic dose due to its short half-life, low bioavailability, poor solubility and extensive first-pass metabolism. In this study chitosan/tripolyphosphate (TPP) nanoparticles were prepared by an ionic gelation method to overcome the therapeutic challenges of melatonin and to improve its anticancer efficacy. Characterization of the melatonin-loaded chitosan (MEL-CS) nanoformulation was performed using transmission and scanning electron microscopies, dynamic light scattering, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy and x-ray diffraction. In vitro release, cellular uptake and efficacy studies were tested for their enhanced anticancer potential in human U87MG glioblastoma cells. Confocal studies revealed higher cellular uptake of MEL-CS nanoparticles and enhanced anticancer efficacy in human malignant glioblastoma cancer cells than in healthy non-malignant human HEK293T cells in mono- and co-culture models. Our study has shown for the first time that MEL-CS nanocomposites are therapeutically more effective as compared to free MEL at inducing functional anticancer efficacy in the human brain tumour U87MG cell line.

Ruptured Liver Abscess in Neonates: Report of Two Cases

Neonatal hepatic abscess is a rare disease seen mainly in preterm following umbilical catheterisation. Liver abscess in term neonates without any predisposing factor is still rarer and only few cases have been reported in the literature. Here we report two cases of liver abscess in term neonates presenting with abdominal mass due to rupture.

Pattern of sexually transmitted infections: a profile from a sexually transmitted infections clinic of a tertiary care hospital of eastern India

BACKGROUND

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are public health problems, which significantly increase the risk of HIV transmission. A proper understanding of the pattern of STIs in different geographical regions is important for proper planning of STI control.

AIMS

To determine the pattern of sexually transmitted diseases in a tertiary care hospital in Eastern India.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

This is a hospital-based, cross-sectional study done in a tertiary care hospital of Eastern India. All the consecutive patients attending the STI clinic of a tertiary care hospital from January 2011 to December 2011 were included in the study, irrespective of age and sex. Thorough history was taken; proper clinical examination and relevant laboratory investigations were done. STIs were categorized in different syndromes as depicted by National AIDS Control Organization(NACO) in the syndromic management of STIs. The STIs, which were not included in the syndromic management, were also identified by clinical features and investigations. Partner notification and condom promotion was done. The statistical analysis used was Chi-square test using Medcalc(R) statistical software Version 9.3 (Belgium).

RESULTS

The commonest STI was genital herpes. Viral STIs like genital herpes, condyloma acuminata, molluscum contagiosum were more prevalent than the non-viral ones like genital ulcer disease non-herpetic, syphilis. STIs which were not included in the syndromic management like molluscum contagiosum, condyloma acuminata, genital scabies were common. HIV seropositivity in the study population (4.2%) was more than the NACO estimate. Condom promotion, partner notification, and partner management was not adequate. Occurrence of venereophobia was found to be significantly higher in male than in female attendees of STI clinic.

CONCLUSIONS

The trend for viral STIs is increasing while that for bacterial STIs is decreasing. Proper training of the health care providers regarding minor STIs, condom promotion, partner notification and partner management, counseling regarding venereophobia should be undertaken to make STI control programs successful.

(-)-Epigallocatechin-3-gallate and DZNep reduce polycomb protein level via a proteasome-dependent mechanism in skin cancer cells

Polycomb group (PcG) protein-dependent histone methylation and ubiquitination drives chromatin compaction leading to reduced tumor suppressor expression and increased cancer cell survival. Green tea polyphenols and S-adenosylhomocysteine (AdoHcy) hydrolase inhibitors are important candidate chemopreventive agents. Previous studies indicate that (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a potent green tea polyphenol, suppresses PcG protein level and skin cancer cell survival. Inhibition of AdoHcy hydrolase with 3-deazaneplanocin A (DZNep) inhibits methyltransferases by reducing methyl group availability. In the present study, we examine the impact of EGCG and DZNep cotreatment on skin cancer cell function. EGCG and DZNep, independently and in combination, reduce the level of PcG proteins including Ezh2, eed, Suz12, Mel18 and Bmi-1. This is associated with reduced H3K27me3 and H2AK119ub formation, histone modifications associated with closed chromatin. Histone deacetylase 1 level is also reduced and acetylated H3 formation is increased. These changes are associated with increased tumor suppressor expression and reduced cell survival and are partially reversed by vector-mediated maintenance of Bmi-1 level. The reduction in PcG protein level is associated with increased ubiquitination and is reversed by proteasome inhibitors, suggesting proteasome-associated degradation.

Valproic acid induced differentiation and potentiated efficacy of taxol and nanotaxol for controlling growth of human glioblastoma LN18 and T98G cells

Glioblastoma shows poor response to current therapies and warrants new therapeutic strategies. We examined the efficacy of combination of valproic acid (VPA) and taxol (TX) or nanotaxol (NTX) in human glioblastoma LN18 and T98G cell lines. Cell differentiation was manifested in changes in morphological features and biochemical markers. Cell growth was controlled with down regulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), phospho-Akt (p-Akt), and multi-drug resistance (MDR) marker, indicating suppression of angiogenic, survival, and multi-drug resistance pathways. Cell cycle analysis showed that combination therapy (VPA and TX or NTX) increased the apoptotic sub G1 population and apoptosis was further confirmed by Annexin V-FITC/PI binding assay and scanning electron microscopy. Combination therapy caused activation of caspase-8 and cleavage of Bid to tBid and increased Bax:Bcl-2 ratio and mitochondrial release of cytochrome c and apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF). Upregulation of calpain and caspases (caspase-9 and caspase-3) and substrate degradation were also detected in course of apoptosis. The combination of VPA and NTX most effectively controlled the growth of LN18 and T98G cells. Therefore, this combination of drugs can be used as an effective treatment for controlling growth of human glioblastoma cells.

Induction of Mitochondrial Pathways and Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress for Increasing Apoptosis in Ectopic and Orthotopic Neuroblastoma Xenografts

Cancers are characterized by dysregulation of multiple signaling pathways and thus monotherapies are hardly effective. Neuroblastoma, which often occurs in adrenal glands, is the most common childhood malignancy. Malignant neuroblastoma resists traditional treatments and further studies are needed for effective therapeutic interventions. We evaluated synergistic efficacy of N-(4-hydroxyphenyl) retinamide (4-HPR) and genistein (GST) for induction of apoptosis in human malignant neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y and SK-N-BE2 cells in culture and activation of multiple pathways for increasing apoptosis in ectopic and orthotopic neuroblastoma xenografts in nude mice. Combination of 4-HPR and GST synergistically reduced cell viability, caused subG1 accumulation, increased caspase-3 activity for apoptosis in vitro and reduced tumor growth in vivo. Western blotting indicated that combination therapy down regulated Id2 to induce differentiation, increased pro-apoptotic Bax and decreased anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 leading to an increase in Bax:Bcl-2 ratio, increased mitochondrial Bax level, caused mitochondrial release of Smac/Diablo, down regulation of the baculovirus inhibitor-of-apoptosis repeat containing (BIRC) proteins such as BIRC-2 and BIRC-3, and activation of calpain and caspase-3 in SH-SY5Y xenografts. Accumulation of apoptosis-inducing-factor (AIF) in cytosol and increase in caspase-4 activation suggested involvement of mitochondrial pathway and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, respectively, for apoptosis in SH-SY5Y xenografts. In situ immunofluorescent labelings of SH-SY5Y and SK-N-BE2 xenograft sections showed overexpression of calpain, caspase-12, and caspase-3, and AIF, suggesting induction of mitochondrial caspase-dependent and caspase-independent pathways for apoptosis. Collectively, synergistic effects of 4-HPR and GST induced mitochondrial pathways and also ER stress for increasing apoptosis in ectopic and orthotopic neuroblastoma xenografts in nude mice.

N-(4-Hydroxyphenyl) Retinamide Potentiated Anti-tumor Efficacy of Genistein in Human Ewing's Sarcoma Xenografts

Background

Ewing’s sarcoma is a pediatric tumor that mainly occurs in soft tissues and bones. New therapeutic strategies are urgently needed for treatment of Ewing’s sarcoma. We examined for the first time the efficacy of N-(4-hydroxyphenyl) retinamide (4-HPR) and genistein (GST) alone and also in combination for controlling growth of human Ewing’s sarcoma SK-N-MC and RD-ES xenografts.

Methods

Efficacy of combination therapy was evaluated using histopathological parameters. Molecular mechanisms of combination therapy were detected using Western blotting and immunofluorescence microscopy.

Results

Histopathological examination of tumor sections showed that control group maintained characteristic growth of tumors, 4-HPR alone inhibited proliferation of tumor cells, GST alone induced apoptosis to some extent, and combination of 4-HPR and GST significantly induced apoptosis in both Ewing’s sarcoma xenografts. Time-dependent reductions in body weight, tumor volume, and tumor weight were also found. Combination therapy increased Bax : Bcl-2 ratio to trigger mitochondrial release of Smac/Diablo into the cytosol to downregulate the baculovirus inhibitor-of-apoptosis repeat containing (BIRC) proteins such as BIRC-2 and BIRC-3 and thereby promote apoptosis. Activation of caspase-3 and mitochondrial release of apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF) occurred in course of apoptosis. Downregulation of the survival factor NF-κB and the angiogenic factors VEGF and FGF2 and increase in caspase-3 activity controlled tumor growth. In situ immunofluorescent labelings showed overexpression of calpain, caspase-12 and caspase-3, and AIF in xenografts, indicating induction of cysteine proteases and AIF for apoptosis.

Conclusions

Results revealed that combination of 4-HPR and GST could be highly effective treatment for inhibiting Ewing’s sarcomas in vivo.

Light microscopic study of cervical smear in a tertiary hospital at Dhaka

This light microscopic retrospective study of 798 cervical smear were done to see the pattern of cervical lesions and main presenting complaints of the women who attended the Gynae & Obstetrics department of BIRDEM hospital for medical and surgical advice. Out of these 798 smears examined light microscopically 274(34.34%) was normal, 453(54.26%) were inflammatory smear, 49(6.14%) showed Gardrenella, 9(1.13%) revealed the presence of Candida, 3(0.38%) showed Trichomonial infection, 6(0.76%) showed the presence of atypical cells (5ASCUS, 1 CIN) and 2(0.26%) were positive for malignancy, (1 adenocarcinoma, 1 squamous cell carcinoma). The mean age+/-SE of the women were 43.12+/-9.18 years, mean+/-SE age of the last child was 14.19+/-7.99 years; mean+/-SE of para was 3.5+/-7.34 pregnancies. The common presenting complains of these women Menorrhagia (17.92%), Menopausal Symptoms (17.42%), Lower Abdominal pain (15.78%), White PV discharge (15.78%), Dysmenorrhoea (7.52%), Pruritus/Itching vulva (7.14%), Prolapse (4.39%), Fibroid (2.01%), Infertility (1.13%), Post coital bleeding (0.75%) respectively. Pap's smear is reconfirmed as an established major screening tool for diagnosis of different cervical lesions.

Activation of Multiple Molecular Mechanisms for Increasing Apoptosis in Human Glioblastoma T98G Xenograft

Glioblastoma is the most malignant brain tumor of astroglial origin. It renders poor response or resistance to existing therapeutics. We used all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) and interferon gamma (IFN-γ) alone and in combination for controlling human glioblastoma T98G xenografted in nude mice. Histopathological examination showed astrocytic differentiation in ATRA group, some apoptosis in IFN-γ group, and occurrence of differentiation and enhancement of apoptosis in ATRA plus IFN-γ group. ATRA plus IFN-γ induced extrinsic pathway of apoptosis by activation of caspase-8 and cleavage of Bid to tBid and also down regulation of hTERT, c-IAP2, and survivin and upregulation of Smac/Diablo to promote apoptosis. Mitochondrial release of apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF) induced caspase-independent pathway and also upregulation of calpain and caspase-dependent pathways ultimately activated caspase-3 for apoptosis. Increased activities of calpain and caspase-3 degraded 270 kD α-spectrin at the specific sites to generate 145 kD spectrin breakdown product (SBDP) and 120 kD SBDP, respectively. In situ TUNEL and double immunofluorescent labelings detected apoptosis with increased expression of calpain, caspase-12, caspase-3, and AIF in tumors after treatment with IFN-γ and most effectively with ATRA plus IFN-γ. Results indicated that ATRA plus IFN-γ activated multiple molecular mechanisms for increasing apoptosis in human glioblastoma in vivo.

Relative and absolute contributions of postprandial and fasting plasma glucose to daytime hyperglycaemia and HbA(1c) in subjects with Type 2 diabetes

AIMS

To determine the relative and absolute contributions of postprandial glucose (PPG) and fasting or preprandial plasma glucose (FPG) to daytime hyperglycaemia and HbA(1c) respectively, in persons with type 2 diabetes (T2DM).

METHODS

Subjects (n = 52; 37 men) had 12hr plasma glucose (PG) profiles determined in response to three serial identical test meals. PPG exposure was calculated for each meal. Excess hyperglycaemia was calculated above a PG concentration of 5.5 mmol/l. Fasting hyperglycaemia was the difference between excess hyperglycaemia and PPG exposure. Subjects were divided into three groups according to HbA(1c)-(Gp1:<7.3%;Gp2:7.3%-8.0%;Gp3:>8.0%) and the relative contribution of PPG exposure and fasting hyperglycaemia to excess hyperglycaemia calculated for each meal. The absolute contribution of PPG and fasting hyperglycaemia to excess HbA(1c) (mean HbA(1c)-5.1%) was also calculated.

RESULTS

The relative contributions of PPG exposure to excess hyperglycaemia for the three groups were: 58.3%, 54.3% and 35.4% (P = 0.483-Group 1 vs. Group 2; P = 0.002-Group 2 vs. Group 3) for meal 1; 69.8%, 54.7% and 23.7% (P = 0.163-Group 1 vs. Group 2; P = 0.005-Group 2 vs. Group 3) for meal 2; 85.8%, 70.2% and 48.6% (P = 0.153-Group 1 vs. Group 2; P = 0.046-Group 2 vs. Group 3) for meal 3. Absolute contributions of PPG to excess HbA(1c) in the three groups were 1.4%, 1.6% and 1.3% (P = NS).

CONCLUSION

The relative contribution of postprandial glucose to excess hyperglycaemia decreases as glycaemic control deteriorates, being dominant with HbA(1c)</= 7.3%, irrespective of the timing of the meal during the day. However, the absolute contribution of postprandial glucose to excess HbA(1c) does not differ significantly ( approximately 1.5%) with varying glycaemic control.

Synergistic efficacy of sorafenib and genistein in growth inhibition by down regulating angiogenic and survival factors and increasing apoptosis through upregulation of p53 and p21 in malignant neuroblastoma cells having N-Myc amplification or non-amplification

Neuroblastoma is an extracranial, solid, and heterogeneous malignancy in children. The conventional therapeutic modalities are mostly ineffective and thus new therapeutic strategies for malignant neuroblastoma are urgently warranted. We examined the synergistic efficacy of combination of sorafenib (SF) and genistein (GST) in human malignant neuroblastoma SK-N-DZ (N-Myc amplified) and SH-SY5Y (N-Myc non-amplified) cell lines. MTT assay showed dose-dependent decrease in cell viability and the combination therapy more prominently inhibited the cell proliferation in both cell lines than either treatment alone. Apoptosis was confirmed morphologically by Wright staining. Flow cytometric analysis of cell cycle phase distribution and Annexin V-FITC/PI staining showed increase in subG1 DNA content and early apoptosis, respectively, after treatment with the combination of drugs. Apoptosis was further confirmed by scanning electron microscopy. Combination therapy showed activation of caspase-8, cleavage of Bid to tBid, increase in p53 and p21 expression, down regulation of anti-apoptotic Mcl-1, and increase in Bax:Bcl-2 ratio to trigger apoptosis. Down regulation of MDR, hTERT, N-Myc, VEGF, FGF-2, NF-κB, p-Akt, and c-IAP2 indicated suppression of angiogenic and survival pathways. Mitochondrial release of cytochrome c and Smac into cytosol indicated involvement of mitochondia in apoptosis. Increases in proteolytic activities of calpain and caspase-3 were also confirmed. Our results suggested that combination of SF and GST inhibited angiogenic and survival factors and increased apoptosis via receptor and mitochondria mediated pathways in both neuroblastoma SK-N-DZ and SH-SY5Y cell lines. Thus, this combination of drugs could be a potential therapeutic strategy against human malignant neuroblastoma cells having N-Myc amplification or non-amplification.

Bcl-2 inhibitor and apigenin worked synergistically in human malignant neuroblastoma cell lines and increased apoptosis with activation of extrinsic and intrinsic pathways

Neuroblastoma is the most common extracranial solid tumor in infants and young children. Current treatments are not always effective and new therapies are needed. We examined efficacy of combination of the small molecule Bcl-2 inhibitor HA14-1 (HA) and the dietary isoflavonoid apigenin (APG) in human malignant neuroblastoma cells. Dose-response studies indicated that treatment with HA and APG for 24 h synergistically reduced cell viability in human malignant neuroblastoma SK-N-DZ, SH-SY5Y, and IMR32 cells. For further studies, we selected SK-N-DZ cells that showed the highest sensitivity following treatment with 2.5 microM HA, 100 microM APG, or combination (2.5 microM HA+100 microM APG). Wright staining showed increase in morphological features of apoptosis. Cell cycle distribution and Annexin V assay showed that combination therapy caused more apoptosis than either treatment alone. Western blotting revealed that combination therapy downregulated angiogenic factors and also induced extrinsic pathway of apoptosis with activation of caspase-8 for Bid cleavage to tBid. Alterations in Bax and Bcl-2 levels resulted in an increase in Bax:Bcl-2 ratio to activate intrinsic pathway of apoptosis with mitochondrial release of cytochrome c into the cytosol and activation of proteases. Increases in calpain and caspase-3 activities generated 145 kD spectrin break down product (SBDP) and 120 kD SBDP, respectively. Results showed that combination of HA and APG could be used for downregulation of angiogenic factors and activation of extrinsic and intrinsic pathways of apoptosis in malignant neuroblastoma cells.

Bcl-2 inhibitor HA14-1 and genistein together adeptly down regulated survival factors and activated cysteine proteases for apoptosis in human malignant neuroblastoma SK-N-BE2 and SH-SY5Y cells

Neuroblastoma is a pediatric extracranial tumor and a major cause of death in children under age 2. Conventional therapy shows inefficacy in most cases and thus development of new therapeutic strategies is urgently needed. We explored the efficacy of combination of the small molecule Bcl-2 inhibitor HA14-1 (HA) and the isoflavonoid genistein (GST) in human malignant neuroblastoma SK-N-BE2 and SH-SY5Y cells. Combination of 10 microM HA and 250 microM GST was optimal for SK-N-BE2 cells and combination of 5 microM HA and 100 microM GST was optimal for SH-SY5Y cells for induction of apoptosis. Phase-contrast microscopy and Wright staining showed morphological features of apoptosis. Cell cycle analysis and Annexin V-FITC/PI binding assay showed that combination of HA and GST was more effective in inducing apoptosis in both cell lines than either HA or GST alone. Western blotting showed that combination of HA and GST caused upregulation of Bax and down regulation of Bcl-2 resulting in increased Bax:Bcl-2 ratio and mitochondrial release of cytochrome c, Smac, and AIF. Down regulation of survival factors such as NF-kappaB, N-Myc, and survivin promoted apoptosis. Activation of caspase-8, calpain, and caspase-3 occurred in course of apoptosis. Increased calpain and caspase-3 activities were confirmed in the degradation of alpha-spectrin to 145 kD spectrin break down product (SBDP) and 120 kD SBDP, respectively. Thus, combination of HA and GST could serve as a promising therapeutic strategy for increasing apoptosis in different human malignant neuroblastoma cells.

Inter-rater and intra-rater reliability of the Bahasa Melayu version of Rose Angina Questionnaire

The objective of the study is to translate the Rose Questionnaire (RQ) into a Bahasa Melayu version and adapt it cross-culturally, and to measure its inter-rater and intrarater reliability. This cross sectional study was conducted in the respondents' homes or workplaces in Kelantan, Malaysia. One hundred respondents aged 30 and above with different socio-demographic status were interviewed for face validity. For each inter-rater and intra-rater reliability, a sample of 150 respondents was interviewed. Inter-rater and intra-rater reliabilities were assessed by Cohen's kappa. The overall inter-rater agreements by the five pair of interviewers at point one and two were 0.86, and intrarater reliability by the five interviewers on the seven-item questionnaire at poinone and two was 0.88, as measured by kappa coefficient. The translated Malay version of RQ demonstrated an almost perfect inter-rater and intra-rater reliability and further validation such as sensitivity and specificity analysis of this translated questionnaire is highly recommended.

A heat stable protein toxin (drCT-I) from the Indian Viper (Daboia russelli russelli) venom having antiproliferative, cytotoxic and apoptotic activities

A heat stable 7.2kDa protein toxin (drCT-I) has been purified and crystallized from Indian Daboia russelli russelli venom (Roy Choudhury et al., 2006. Acta Cryst. F Struct Biol Cryst Commun, 62(Pt. 3), 292). The N-terminal (first 20) amino acid sequence of drCT-I was LKCNKLVPLFYKTCPAGKNL, which showed sequence homology to cytotoxins isolated from Naja venom. drCT-I has been evaluated for anticancer activity against EAC cells in vivo and human leukemic cells (U937, K562) in vitro. drCT-I (125 microg/kg, i.p/day for 10 days) significantly decreased EAC cell count, cell viability (p<0.001) and significantly increased the survival time of tumour bearing mice (T/C% 178.64, p<0.01) in comparison to untreated tumour bearing control. drCT-I, produced dose and time-dependent inhibition of U937 and K562 cell growth and had an IC50 of 8.9 and 6.7 microg/ml respectively after 24h treatment. The reduced MTT values after drCT-I treatment indicated its cytotoxic nature, which supported its antiproliferative action. Scanning electron microscopy and confocal microscopy in U937 and K562 cells after drCT-I treatment indicated certain features of apoptosis such as membrane blebbing, perforations, nuclear fragmentation. The induction of apoptosis was further confirmed by phosphatidylserine externalization observed using annexinV-FITC/PI staining and flow cytometric analysis. drCT-I brought about apoptosis by G1 phase arrest of the cell cycle. The effect of drCT-I on normal human peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMNC) viability and cytotoxicity was studied in culture and was found to be lower than that on U937 and K562 cells. Thus both in vivo and in vitro experimental results suggested that drCT-I possessed anticancer potential.

Purification, crystallization and preliminary X-ray structural studies of a 7.2 kDa cytotoxin isolated from the venom of Daboia russelli russelli of the Viperidae family

A cytotoxin (MW 7.2 kDa) from Indian Russell's viper (Daboia russelli russelli) venom possessing antiproliferative activity, cardiotoxicity, neurotoxicity and myotoxicity has been purified, characterized and crystallized. The crystals belong to the tetragonal space group P4(1), with unit-cell parameters a = b = 47.94, c = 50.2 A. Larger crystals, which diffracted to 1.5 A, were found to be twinned; diffraction data were therefore collected to 2.93 A resolution using a smaller crystal. Molecular-replacement calculations identified two molecules of the protein in the asymmetric unit, which is in accordance with the calculated VM value.

Blood pressure in acute intracerebral haemorrhage

Stroke is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and spontaneous bleeding into the brain parenchyma, intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH), is a stroke subtype associated with high morbidity and mortality. Overall, it comprises about 15% of all stroke in Caucasians, this figure being much higher in Asians and black people. Blood pressure (BP) appears to play an important role in this disease. We have reviewed available literature on the relationship of BP to the occurrence of primary and secondary ICH, the association of BP levels measured early after stroke with prognosis and complications, and evidence about the effects of early BP lowering treatments on post-stroke outcomes. BP appears to be an important risk factor for primary and secondary ICH. In addition, high BP early after ICH may be detrimental to outcome, possibly contributing to complications such as rebleeding and haematoma enlargement. Few data are available about the effects of early lowering of BP on outcome after ICH with no reliable trial yet conducted. Proper randomised trials are required to establish the effect of early lowering of BP on outcome after ICH.

Differences in cardiovascular disease risk factors between Japanese in Japan and Japanese-Americans in Hawaii: the INTERLIPID study

Despite increase in serum total cholesterol, high smoking rate, and frequency of adverse blood pressure levels in Japan, coronary heart disease (CHD) incidence and mortality apparently remain substantially lower at all ages in Japan than in the US and other Western societies. To better understand these differences, we compared CHD biomedical risk factors and dietary variables in Japanese living in Japan and 3rd and 4th generation Japanese emigrants living a primarily Western lifestyle in Hawaii, in an ancillary study of the INTERMAP. Men and women aged 40-59 years were examined by common standardized methods-four samples in Japan (574 men, 571 women) and a Japanese-American sample in Hawaii (136 men, 131 women). Average systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressures were significantly higher in men in Japan than in Hawaii; there were no significant differences in women. The treatment rate of hypertension was much lower in Japan than Hawaii. Smoking prevalence was higher, markedly so for men, in Japan than Hawaii. Body mass index, serum total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, HbA1c, and fibrinogen were significantly lower in Japan than in Hawaii; high-density lipoprotein cholesterol was higher in Japan. Total fat, saturated fatty acid intake, and Keys dietary lipid score were lower in Japan than in Hawaii. Polyunsaturated/saturated fatty acid ratio and omega-3 fatty acid intake were higher in Japan than in Hawaii. In conclusion, levels of several, especially lipid, CHD risk factors were generally lower in Japanese in Japan than in Japanese in Hawaii. These differences were smaller for women than men between Japan and Hawaii. They may partly explain lower CHD incidence and mortality in Japan than Western industrialized countries.