[Expression of neutrophil extracellular traps and phagocytic functions among patients with hepatic alveolar echinococcosis]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the expression of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) and phagocytic function in the peripheral blood of patients with hepatic alveolar echinococcosis (HAE), and to examine their correlations with clinical inflamma tory indicators and liver functions.

METHODS

A total of 50 patients with HAE admitted to Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qinghai University from August 2022 to June 2023 were enrolled, while 50 age- and gender-matched healthy individuals from the Centre for Healthy Examinations of the hospital during the same period served as controls. The levels of NETs markers neutrophil myeloperoxidase (MPO) and neutrophil elastase (NE) were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Peripheral blood neutrophils were isolated using density gradient centrifugation, stimulated in vitro using phorbol 12-myristate 13 acetate (PMA), and the levels of MPO and citrullination histone H3 (CitH3) released by neutrophils were quantified using flow cytometry. The phagocytic functions of neutrophils were examined using flow cytometry. In addition, the correlations of MPO and NE levels with clinical inflammatory indicators and liver biochemical indicators were examined using Spearman correlation analysis among HAE patients.

RESULTS

The peripheral blood plasma MPO［(417.15 ± 76.08) ng/mL vs. (255.70 ± 80.84) ng/mL; t = 10.28, P < 0.05］, NE［(23.16 ± 6.75) ng/mL vs. (11.92 ± 3.17) ng/mL; t = 10.65, P < 0.05］and CitH3 levels［(33.93 ± 18.93) ng/mL vs. (19.52 ± 13.89) ng/mL; t = 4.34, P < 0.05］were all significantly higher among HAE patients than among healthy controls, and a lower phagocytosis rate of neutrophils was detected among HAE patients than among healthy controls［(70.85 ± 7.32)% vs. (94.04 ± 3.90)%; t = 20.18, P < 0.05］, and the ability to produce NETs by neutrophils was higher among HAE patients than among healthy controls following in vitro PMA stimulation. Pearson correlation analysis showed that the phagocytosis rate of neutrophils correlated negatively with platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), interleukin-6 (IL-6) level and C-reactive protein (CRP) level (rs = -0.515 to -0.392, all P values < 0.05), and the MPO and NE levels positively correlated with inflammatory markers NLR, PLR, CRP and IL-6 (rs = 0.333 to 0.445, all P values < 0.05) and clinical liver biochemical indicators aspartic transaminase, alanine aminotransferase, direct bilirubin and total bilirubin among HAE patients (rs = 0.290 to 0.628, all P values < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Excessive formation of NETs is found among HAE patients, which affects the phagocytic ability of neutrophils and results in elevated levels of inflammatory indicators. NETs markers may be promising novel biomarkers for early diagnosis, monitoring, and severity assessment of liver disease.

Oral Microbiome and Alzheimer's Disease

The accumulation of amyloid-beta plaques in the brain is a central pathological feature of Alzheimer's disease. It is believed that amyloid responses may be a result of the host immune response to pathogens in both the central nervous system and peripheral systems. Oral microbial dysbiosis is a chronic condition affecting more than 50% of older adults. Recent studies have linked oral microbial dysbiosis to a higher brain Aβ load and the development of Alzheimer's disease in humans. Moreover, the presence of an oral-derived and predominant microbiome has been identified in the brains of patients with Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, in this opinion article, we aim to provide a summary of studies on oral microbiomes that may contribute to the pathogenesis of the central nervous system in Alzheimer's disease.

[Traditional Chinese medicine for treatment of echinococcosis: a review]

Echinococcosis is a zoonotic parasitic disease caused by infection with Echinococcus species. As the drug of first choice for treatment of echinococcosis, albendazole suffers from problems of large doses and remarkable adverse reactions in clinical therapy. Development of novel drugs against echinococcosis is of urgent need. Recently, great advances have been achieved in the research on traditional Chinese medicine for treatment of echinococcosis. This review summarizes the progress of researches on traditional Chinese medicine for treatment of echinococcosis, aiming to provide insights into development of anti-echinococcosis drugs.

Effects of repeated sleep deprivation on brain pericytes in mice

The damaging effects of sleep deprivation (SD) on brain parenchyma have been extensively studied. However, the specific influence of SD on brain pericytes, a primary component of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and the neurovascular unit (NVU), is still unclear. The present study examined how acute or repeated SD impairs brain pericytes by measuring the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) levels of soluble platelet-derived growth factor receptor beta (sPDGFRβ) and quantifying pericyte density in the cortex, hippocampus, and subcortical area of the PDGFRβ-P2A-CreERT2/tdTomato mice, which predominantly express the reporter tdTomato in vascular pericytes. Our results showed that a one-time 4 h SD did not significantly change the CSF sPDGFRβ level. In contrast, repeated SD (4 h/day for 10 consecutive days) significantly elevated the CSF sPDGFRβ level, implying explicit pericyte damages due to repeated SD. Furthermore, repeated SD significantly decreased the pericyte densities in the cortex and hippocampus, though the pericyte apoptosis status remained unchanged as measured with Annexin V-affinity assay and active Caspase-3 staining. These results suggest that repeated SD causes brain pericyte damage and loss via non-apoptosis pathways. These changes to pericytes may contribute to SD-induced BBB and NVU dysfunctions. The reversibility of this process implies that sleep improvement may have a protective effect on brain pericytes.

Pericyte Loss in Diseases

Pericytes are specialized cells located in close proximity to endothelial cells within the microvasculature. They play a crucial role in regulating blood flow, stabilizing vessel walls, and maintaining the integrity of the blood-brain barrier. The loss of pericytes has been associated with the development and progression of various diseases, such as diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, sepsis, stroke, and traumatic brain injury. This review examines the detection of pericyte loss in different diseases, explores the methods employed to assess pericyte coverage, and elucidates the potential mechanisms contributing to pericyte loss in these pathological conditions. Additionally, current therapeutic strategies targeting pericytes are discussed, along with potential future interventions aimed at preserving pericyte function and promoting disease mitigation.

Circulating extracellular vesicles are associated with the clinical outcomes of sepsis

Introduction

Sepsis is associated with endothelial cell (EC) dysfunction, increased vascular permeability and organ injury, which may lead to mortality, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and acute renal failure (ARF). There are no reliable biomarkers to predict these sepsis complications at present. Recent evidence suggests that circulating extracellular vesicles (EVs) and their content caspase-1 and miR-126 may play a critical role in modulating vascular injury in sepsis; however, the association between circulating EVs and sepsis outcomes remains largely unknown.

Methods

We obtained plasma samples from septic patients (n=96) within 24 hours of hospital admission and from healthy controls (n=45). Total, monocyte- or EC-derived EVs were isolated from the plasma samples. Transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER) was used as an indicator of EC dysfunction. Caspase-1 activity in EVs was detected and their association with sepsis outcomes including mortality, ARDS and ARF was analyzed. In another set of experiments, total EVs were isolated from plasma samples of 12 septic patients and 12 non-septic critical illness controls on days 1, and 3 after hospital admission. RNAs were isolated from these EVs and Next-generation sequencing was performed. The association between miR-126 levels and sepsis outcomes such as mortality, ARDS and ARF was analyzed.

Results

Septic patients with circulating EVs that induced EC injury (lower transendothelial electrical resistance) were more likely to experience ARDS (p<0.05). Higher caspase-1 activity in total EVs, monocyte- or EC-derived EVs was significantly associated with the development of ARDS (p<0.05). MiR-126-3p levels in EC EVs were significantly decreased in ARDS patients compared with healthy controls (p<0.05). Moreover, a decline in miR-126-5p levels from day 1 to day 3 was associated with increased mortality, ARDS and ARF; while decline in miR-126-3p levels from day 1 to day 3 was associated with ARDS development.

Conclusions

Enhanced caspase-1 activity and declining miR-126 levels in circulating EVs are associated with sepsis-related organ failure and mortality. Extracellular vesicular contents may serve as novel prognostic biomarkers and/or targets for future therapeutic approaches in sepsis.

[Analysis of enterovirus infection type among acute respiratory tract infection cases in Luohe City, Henan Province from 2017 to 2021]

Objective: To understand the infection status of Enterovirus (EV) in cases of acute respiratory infections (ARIs) in Luohe City, Henan Province from 2017 to 2021, and analyze the prevalence and type composition of EV in ARIs. Methods: From October 2017 to May 2021, pharyngeal swab samples were collected from 1 828 patients with ARIs in Luohe Central Hospital and the clinical epidemiological data of these cases were also collected. EV-positive samples were identified by Quantitative Real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR). The 5'-untranslated region (5'UTR) was amplified by Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR). The results of 5'UTR region were initially typed by Enterovirus Genotyping Tool Version 1.0. Based on the typing results, the full-length of VP1 region was amplified by RT-PCR. The EV typing was identified again by VP1 region. Results: Among 1 828 cases of ARIs, 56.7% (1 036) were males. The median (Q₁, Q₃) age was about 3 (1, 5) years. Patients under 5 years old accounted for 71.6% (1 309 cases). Among all cases, a total of 71 EV-positive samples were identified by qPCR, with a detection rate of 3.88% (71/1 828). The EV detection rates for men and women were 3.28% (34/1 036) and 4.67% (37/792), without statistically significant differences (χ²=2.32, P=0.14). The EV detection rates for 2 to <6 years, 6 months to <2 years, 6 to <10 years, and <6 months were 6.29% (48/763), 3.00% (18/600), 2.52% (4/159), and 1.67% (1/60) (χ²=27.91, P<0.001). The EV detection rate was 0.92% (3/326) in autumn and winter of 2017. The EV detection rates were 1.18% (6/508), 2.47% (12/485) and 8.31% (34/409) in each year from 2018 to 2020, with an increasing trend year by year(χ²_trend=29.76, P<0.001). The main prevalent seasons were summer and autumn. The detection rate in spring of 2021 was 4.00% (4/100). A total of 12 types were identified and classified as CVA2, CVA4, CVA5, CVA6, CVA10, CVB3, CVB5, E5, E11, E30, PV-1, and EV-D68. The types of CVA2, CVA10, CVA6, and CVB3 were the dominant phenotypes. In 59 sample of EV typing, the main clinical manifestation was upper respiratory tract infection (36/59, 61.01%). The dominant types detected in upper respiratory tract infections were CVA10 (10/36, 27.78%), CVA6 (9/36, 25.00%) and CVB3 (8/36, 22.22%). The dominant type detected in lower respiratory tract infections was CVA2 (7/19, 36.84%). Conclusion: In Luohe City, Henan Province from 2017 to 2021, EV infection in ARIs cases has clear seasonal and age-specific patterns, and the dominant types of upper and lower respiratory tract infections are different.

COVID-19 is associated with bystander polyclonal autoreactive B cell activation as reflected by a broad autoantibody production, but none is linked to disease severity

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is associated with autoimmune features and autoantibody production in a small subset of the population. Pre-existing neutralizing antitype I interferons (IFNs) autoantibodies are related to the severity of COVID-19. Plasma levels of IgG and IgM against 12 viral antigens and 103 self-antigens were evaluated using an antibody protein array in patients with severe/critical or mild/moderate COVID-19 disease and uninfected controls. Patients exhibited increased IgGs against Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 proteins compared to controls, but no difference was observed in the two patient groups. 78% autoreactive IgGs and 93% autoreactive IgMs were increased in patients versus controls. There was no difference in the plasma levels of anti-type I IFN autoantibodies or neutralizing anti-type I IFN activity of plasma samples from the two patient groups. Increased anti-type I IFN IgGs were correlated with higher lymphocyte accounts, suggesting a role of nonpathogenic autoantibodies. Notably, among the 115 antibodies tested, only plasma levels of IgGs against human coronavirus (HCOV)-229E and HCOV-NL63 spike proteins were associated with mild disease outcome. COVID-19 was associated with a bystander polyclonal autoreactive B cell activation, but none of the autoantibody levels were linked to disease severity. Long-term humoral immunity against HCOV-22E and HCOV-NL63 spike protein was associated with mild disease outcome. Understanding the mechanism of life-threatening COVID-19 is critical to reducing mortality and morbidity.

Sphingomyelinases in retinas and optic nerve heads: Effects of ocular hypertension and ischemia

Sphingomyelinases (SMase), enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of sphingomyelin to ceramide, are important sensors for inflammatory cytokines and apoptotic signaling. Studies have provided evidence that increased SMase activity can contribute to retinal injury. In most tissues, two major SMases are responsible for stress-induced increases in ceramide: acid sphingomyelinase (ASMase) and Mg2+-dependent neutral sphingomyelinase (NSMase). The purposes of the current study were to determine the localization of SMases and their substrates in the retina and optic nerve head and to investigate the effects of ocular hypertension and ischemia on ASMase and NSMase activities. Tissue and cellular localization of ASMase and NSMase were determined by immunofluorescence imaging. Tissue localization of sphingomyelin in retinas was further determined by Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization mass spectrometry imaging. Tissue levels of sphingomyelins and ceramide were determined by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. Sphingomyelinase activities under basal conditions and following acute ischemic and ocular hypotensive stress were measured using the Amplex Red Sphingomyelinase Assay Kit. Our data show that ASMase is in the optic nerve head and the retinal ganglion cell layer. NSMase is in the optic nerve head, photoreceptor and retinal ganglion cell layers. Both ASMase and NSMase were identified in human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived retinal ganglion cells and optic nerve head astrocytes. The retina and optic nerve head each exhibited unique distribution of sphingomyelins with the abundance of very long chain species being higher in the optic nerve head than in the retina. Basal activities for ASMase in retinas and optic nerve heads were 54.98 ± 2.5 and 95.6 ± 19.5 mU/mg protein, respectively. Ocular ischemia significantly increased ASMase activity to 86.2 ± 15.3 mU/mg protein in retinas (P = 0.03) but not in optic nerve heads (81.1 ± 15.3 mU/mg protein). Ocular hypertension significantly increased ASMase activity to 121.6 ± 7.3 mU/mg protein in retinas (P < 0.001) and 267.0 ± 66.3 mU/mg protein in optic nerve heads (P = 0.03). Basal activities for NSMase in retinas and optic nerve heads were 12.3 ± 2.1 and 37.9 ± 8.7 mU/mg protein, respectively. No significant change in NSMase activity was measured following ocular ischemia or hypertension. Our results provide evidence that both ASMase and NSMase are expressed in retinas and optic nerve heads; however, basal ASMase activity is significantly higher than NSMase activity in retinas and optic nerve heads. In addition, only ASMase activity was significantly increased in ocular ischemia or hypertension. These data support a role for ASMase-mediated sphingolipid metabolism in the development of retinal ischemic and hypertensive injuries.

COVID-19 mRNA vaccine BNT162b2 induces autoantibodies against type I interferons in a healthy woman

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) caused by SARS-CoV-2 virus is associated with a wide range of clinical manifestations, including autoimmune features and autoantibody production in a small subset of patients. Pre-exiting neutralizing autoantibodies against type I interferons (IFNs) are associated with COVID-19 disease severity. In this case report, plasma levels of IgG against type I interferons (IFNs) were increased specifically among the 103 autoantibodies tested following the second shot of COVID-19 vaccine BNT162b2 compared to pre-vaccination and further increased following the third shot of BNT162b2 in a healthy woman. Unlike COVID-19 mediated autoimmune responses, vaccination in this healthy woman did not induce autoantibodies against autoantigens associated with autoimmune diseases. Importantly, IFN-α-2a-induced STAT1 responses in human PBMCs in vitro were suppressed by adding plasma samples from the study subject post- but not pre-vaccination. After the second dose of vaccine, the study subject exhibited severe dermatitis for about six months and responded to treatments with Betamethasone Dipropionate Ointment and antihistamines for about one month. Immune responses to type I IFN can be double-edged swords in enhancing vaccine efficacy and immune responses to infectious diseases, as well as accelerating chronic disease pathogenesis (e.g., chronic viral infections and autoimmune diseases). This case highlights the BNT162b2-induced neutralizing anti-type I IFN autoantibody production, which may affect immune functions in a small subset of general population and patients with some chronic diseases.

[Role of type 2 innate lymphoid cells in helminth infections: a review]

Helminth infections may trigger host innate and adaptive immune responses. Group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2) are an important factor involved in type 2 immune responses, and produce a large number of T helper 2 cell (Th2) cytokines following stimulation by interleukin (IL)-25, IL-33 and thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), which play a critical role in parasite clearance and tissue repair. Following helminth infections, autocrine factors, mast cells, enteric nervous system and Th2 cells have been recently found to be involved in regulation of ILC2. Unraveling the role of ILC2 in immune response against helminth infections is of great value for basic research and drug development. This review summarizes the research progress on ILC2 and its role in helminth infections.

[Predictive value of serum HBV RNA for therapeutic effect of entecavir in patients with chronic hepatitis B]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the value of HBV RNA for predicting the therapeutic effect of long-term entecavir (ETV) antiviral therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB).

METHODS

Serum samples were collected from 59 CHB patients treated with ETV for 96 or 108 months. HBV RNA levels, HBV DNA levels, and serological marker (HBeAg) levels were measured at baseline and 3, 6, 9, 12, 36, 72, and 96 (or 108) months during the therapy.

RESULTS

Although HBV RNA level decreased after 12 and 36 months of ETV antiviral therapy, no significance changes occurred in HBV RNA negative conversion rate (P>0.05). After 72 months of treatment or longer, 33 patients had HBV RNA levels lower than 100 copies/mL, and among them 29 patients had HBV RNA levels lower than the detection limit, and HBV RNA negative conversion rate was statistically significant (P < 0.05). A lower HBV RNA level was associated with a higher HBeAg negative conversion rate (P < 0.05). Age and HBV RNA level were positively correlated with HBeAg negative conversion rate (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Prolonged ETV antiviral therapy results in better clearance of HBV RNA and a higher negative conversion rate in CHB patients. The length of antiviral therapy and age are positively correlated with the negative conversion rate of HBV RNA, and earlier administration of the antiviral treatment achieves better therapeutic effect. Serum HBV RNA level can be used as an indicator for predicting conversion to negative HBeAg in CHB patients receiving ETV therapy.

[Progress in the study of antiviral activity of cepharanthine against SARS-CoV-2]

As a member of the dibenzyl isoquinoline alkaloid family, cepharathine is an alkaloid from the traditional Chinese medicine cepharathine, which is mainly used for treatment of leukopenia and other diseases. Recent studies of the inhibitory effect of cepharathine against SARS-CoV-2 have attracted widespread attention and aroused heated discussion. As the original discoverer of the anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity of cepharanthine, here we briefly summarize the discovery of cepharanthine and review important progress in relevant studies concerning the discovery and validation of anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity of cepharathine, its antiviral mechanisms and clinical trials of its applications in COVID-19 therapy.

A compact x-ray diffraction system for dynamic compression experiments on pulsed-power generators

Pulsed-power generators can produce well-controlled continuous ramp compression of condensed matter for high-pressure equation-of-state studies using the magnetic loading technique. X-ray diffraction (XRD) data from dynamically compressed samples provide direct measurements of the elastic compression of the crystal lattice, onset of plastic flow, strength-strain rate dependence, structural phase transitions, and density of crystal defects, such as dislocations. Here, we present a cost-effective, compact, pulsed x-ray source for XRD measurements on pulsed-power-driven ramp-loaded samples. This combination of magnetically driven ramp compression of materials with a single, short-pulse XRD diagnostic will be a powerful capability for the dynamic materials' community to investigate in situ dynamic phase transitions critical to equation of states. We present results using this new diagnostic to evaluate lattice compression in Zr and Al and to capture signatures of phase transitions in CdS.

[Analysis on incidence trend of liver cancer in China, 2005-2016]

Objective: To understand the incidence trend of liver cancer in China from 2005 to 2016, and explore the correlation between the incidence trend of liver cancer and the incidence trend of hepatitis B. Methods: The incidence data of liver cancer in China from 2005 to 2016 were collected from the Annual Report of Cancer Registry in China. The incidence data of hepatitis B were collected from China Public Health Science Data Center. World standardized incidence rate (WSR) was calculated according to the World Segi's population. Joinpoint regression model was used to analyze the trend of WSR of liver cancer [measured by average annual percentage change (AAPC)]. The age-period-cohort model was fitted to analyze the age, period and cohort effects in people aged 20- years and above. Pearson correlation coefficient was used to explore the correlation between the incidence of liver cancer and the incidence of hepatitis B. Results: The crude incidence of liver cancer in China showed a trend of first increase before 2009 and then relatively stable. The world standardized morbidity rate of liver cancer in China decreased from 19.11 per 100 000 in 2005 to 17.74 per 100 000 in 2016 (AAPC=-0.5%, 95%CI: -1.3%-0.3%, P=0.240). The incidence of liver cancer in male decreased significantly (AAPC=-1.0%, 95%CI: -1.5%--0.5%, P=0.001). The incidence of liver cancer in women increased from 2005 to 2010 [annual percentage change (APC)=1.7%, 95%CI: -0.1%-3.4%, P=0.059] but showed a significant decrease trend from 2010 to 2016 (APC=-1.6%, 95%CI: -2.3%--1.0%, P=0.001). From 2005 to 2016, the incidence of liver cancer showed a decreasing trend in urban areas (AAPC=-0.3%, 95%CI: -0.8%-0.3%, P=0.316) and rural areas (AAPC=-3.9%, 95%CI: -4.4%--3.3%, P<0.001). Risk for liver cancer increased with age, while the period effect showed a trend of first increase then decrease and cohort effect showed a decrease trend. The morbidity rates of both hepatitis B and liver cancer showed decrease trends from 2009 to 2016, and there was a significant correlation (r=0.71, 95%CI: 0.01-0.94, P=0.048). Conclusions: From 2005 to 2016, the morbidity rate of liver cancer in China showed a decrease trend, and there were significant gender and urban-rural area specific differences. Age effect had a great impact on the risk for liver cancer. With the progress of population aging in China, liver cancer is still a public health problem, to which close attention needs to be paid.

lncRNA Neat1 regulates neuronal dysfunction post sepsis via stabilization of hemoglobin subunit beta

Sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE) is characterized by acute and diffuse brain dysfunction and correlates with long-term cognitive impairments with no targeted therapy. We used a mouse model of sepsis-related cognitive impairment to examine the role of lncRNA nuclear enriched abundant transcript 1 (Neat1) in SAE. We observed that Neat1 expression was increased in neuronal cells from septic mice and that it directly interacts with hemoglobin subunit beta (Hbb), preventing its degradation. The Neat1/Hbb axis suppressed postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD-95) levels and decreased dendritic spine density. Neat1 knockout mice exhibited decreased Hbb levels, which resulted in increased PSD-95 levels, increased neuronal dendritic spine density, and decreased anxiety and memory impairment. Neat1 silencing via the antisense oligonucleotide GapmeR ameliorated anxiety-like behavior and cognitive impairment post-sepsis. In conclusion, we uncovered a previously unknown mechanism of the Neat1/Hbb axis in regulating neuronal dysfunction, which may lead to a novel treatment strategy for SAE.

Suppression of Fli-1 protects against pericyte loss and cognitive deficits in Alzheimer's disease

Brain pericytes regulate cerebral blood flow, maintain the integrity of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and facilitate the removal of amyloid β (Aβ) which is critical to healthy brain activity. Pericyte loss has been observed in brains from patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and animal models. Our previous data demonstrated that friend leukemia virus integration 1 (Fli-1), an ETS transcription factor, governs pericyte viability in murine sepsis; however, the role of Fli-1 and its impact on pericyte loss in AD remains unknown. Here, we demonstrated that Fli-1 expression was up-regulated in postmortem brains from a cohort of human AD donors and in 5xFAD mice, which corresponded with a decreased pericyte number, elevated inflammatory mediators, and increased Aβ accumulation as compared to cognitively normal individuals and WT mice. Antisense oligonucleotide Fli-1 Gapmer administrated via intrahippocampal injection decelerated pericyte loss, decreased inflammatory response, ameliorated cognitive deficits, improved BBB dysfunction, and reduced Aβ deposition in 5xFAD mice. Fli-1 Gapmer-mediated inhibition of Fli-1 protected against Aβ accumulation-induced human brain pericyte apoptosis in vitro. Overall, these studies indicate that Fli-1 contributes to pericyte loss, inflammatory response, Aβ deposition, vascular dysfunction and cognitive decline, and suggest that inhibition of Fli-1 may represent novel therapeutic strategies for AD.

Proteomic Analysis of Exosomes Secreted from Human Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Overexpressing Mesenchymal Stromal Cells

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) mediate many therapeutic effects of stem cells during cellular therapies. Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (BM-MSCs) were manufactured to overexpress the human antiprotease alpha-1 antitrypsin (hAAT) and studied to compare the EV production compared to lentivirus treated control MSCs. The goal of this study was to compare protein profiles in the EVs/exosomes of control and hAAT-MSCs using unbiased, high resolution liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry to explore differences. Nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) showed that the particle size of the EVs from control MSCs or hAAT-MSCs ranged from 30 to 200 nm. Both MSCs and hAAT-MSCs expressed exosome-associated proteins, including CD63, CD81, and CD9. hAAT-MSCs also expressed high levels of hAAT. We next performed proteomic analysis of EVs from three healthy donor cell lines. Exosomes collected from cell supernatant were classified by GO analysis which showed proteins important to cell adhesion and extracellular matrix organization. However, there were differences between exosomes from control MSCs and hAAT-MSCs in cytokine signaling of the immune system, stem cell differentiation, and carbohydrate metabolism (p < 0.05). These results show that hAAT-MSC exosomes contain a different profile of paracrine effectors with altered immune function, impacts on MSC stemness, differentiation, and prevention of cell apoptosis and survival that could contribute to improved therapeutic functions.

[Effects of N-trimethyl chitosan-recombinant tissue factor pathway inhibitor complex on avulsion flap with roll compaction in rat]

Objective: To investigate the effect of N-trimethyl chitosan-recombinant tissue factor pathway inhibitor (rTFPI) complex on avulsion flap with roll compaction in rat. Methods: The experimental methods were adopted. The N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI complex solution was prepared by ion cross-linking method. The morphology of the complex was observed by scanning electron microscope, and its diameter was measured. The encapsulation rate of rTFPI in the complex and drug loading rate of the complex was determined and calculated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method (n=3). The concentration of rTFPI in the solution at 0, 10, 30, 45, 60, 90, 120, 240 minutes of storage was measured by ELISA method to observe the release of rTFPI, and its half-life was calculated (n=3). Twenty-four 6-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into phosphate buffered saline (PBS) group, N-trimethyl chitosan alone group, rTFPI alone group, and N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI group according to the random number table, with 6 rats in each group. The avulsion flaps with roll compaction were prepared on the backs of rats with pedicles located on the line of the bilateral iliac spine and lifted from the surface of the muscle membrane. One injection of corresponding reagents was carried out immediately after in-situ suture and on post operation day (POD) 1, 2, and 3. General changes of the flap were observed on POD 1, 3, and 7. On POD 7, the survival area of the flap was measured and the survival rate of the flap was calculated; the flaps were divided into pedicle, proximal, middle, and distal segments, and the blood perfusion in the proximal, middle, and distal segment tissue of the flap was detected by the laser speckle blood flow imager; tissue samples in the middle of the flap were cut and stained with hematoxylin and eosin to observe the changes in tissue structure and the infiltration of inflammatory cells, and the numbers of embolized blood vessels and new blood vessels per 100 times visual field were counted. Data were statistically analyzed with one-way analysis of variance and least significant difference test. Results: The N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI complex had an irregular spherical structure with a diameter of 150-200 nm. The encapsulation rate of rTFPI in the complex and drug loading rate of the complex were (88.7±2.1)% and (2.83±0.09)%, respectively. The concentration of rTFPI in the solution of the N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI complex gradually increased with prolonged storage time, and the release was basically stable at 90 min, with half-life of (651±36) min. On POD 1, the distal parts of flaps of rats in N-trimethyl chitosan alone group darkened significantly. On POD 3, scabs and necrosis were relatively mild on the distal segment of the flaps of rats in rTFPI alone group and N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI group as compared with those of the other two groups. On POD 7, the necrosis boundaries of the flaps of rats in each group were clear. On POD 7, the flap survival rates of rats in rTFPI alone group and N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI group were (63±7)% and (73±5)%, respectively, which were significantly higher than (41±3)% in PBS group and (52±7)% in N-trimethyl chitosan alone group. Moreover, the flap survival rate of rats in N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI group was significantly higher than that in rTFPI alone group (P<0.05). On POD 7, the flaps of rats in each group had blood perfusion; the blood perfusion values in the proximal segment tissue of the rat flaps in N-trimethyl chitosan alone group and the blood perfusion values in the proximal, middle, and distal segment tissue of the rat flaps in rTFPI alone group and N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI group were significantly higher than those in PBS group (P<0.05 or P<0.01); the blood perfusion values in the distal segment tissue of the rat flaps in rTFPI alone group and the blood perfusion values in the middle and distal segment tissue of the rat flaps in N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI group were significantly higher than those in N-trimethyl chitosan alone group (P<0.05 or P<0.01); the blood perfusion value in the middle segment tissue of the rat flaps in N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI group was significantly higher than that in rTFPI alone group (P<0.01). On POD 7, inflammatory cells infiltrated more and cell edema was obvious in the middle segment tissue of the rat flaps in PBS group and N-trimethyl chitosan alone group. Compared with those of the previous two groups, the inflammation degrees in the middle segment tissue of the rat flaps in rTFPI alone group and N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI group were significantly milder, the number of embolized blood vessels was significantly decreased (P<0.05 or P<0.01), and the number of new blood vessels was significantly increased (P<0.05 or P<0.01). Compared with that of rTFPI alone group, the number of new blood vessels in the middle segment tissue of the rat flaps in N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI group increased significantly (P<0.05). Conclusions: The effect of sustained release of rTFPI can be achieved by loading rTFPI with N-trimethyl chitosan. Compared with rTFPI alone, the N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI complex can further improve the blood perfusion of the avulsion flaps with roll compaction in rat and improve the survival rate of the flap.

[Urine proteomics signatures associated with alcohol drinking among residents attending the National Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer Early Detection Program in Linqu, Shandong province]

The liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry was used to detect the urinary proteomics of 223 residents aged 40-69 years old who participated in the National Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer Early Detection Program in Linqu County, Shandong Province from November 22 to December 7, 2018, and analyze the alcohol consumption related proteomic profiles and individual urinary protein. There were significant differences in urinary protein profiles between alcohol consumption group and non-alcohol consumption group. The expression of 26 urinary proteins was up-regulated and 20 urinary proteins were down-regulated in alcohol consumption group (P<0.05). The differentially expressed proteins had enzyme inhibitor activity and phospholipid binding function, and mainly enriched in pathways involving proximal tubule bicarbonate regeneration, complement and coagulation cascade, and cholesterol metabolism. The protein expressions of complement factor I (CFI), angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and protein C inhibitor (SERPINA5) were positively correlated with daily alcohol consumption.

[Transepidermal water loss of scar skin in three types of scar patients and its correlation with scar severity]

Objective: To study the transepidermal water loss (TEWL) of scar skin in patients with superficial scars, hypertrophic scars, and atrophic scars, and to explore the correlation between TEWL and scar severity. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted. From February 2017 to February 2019, 120 scar patients who met the inclusion criteria were admitted to the General Hospital of Jilin Chemical Industry Group, including 78 males and 42 females, aged (35±14) years. According to the diagnosis on admission, there were 40 cases of superficial scar patients, 40 cases of hypertrophic scar patients, and 40 cases of atrophic scar patients. On admission, the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) was used to score the scar of each patient; the TEWL of scar skin and normal skin 1 cm from the edge of scar or the same site of the healthy side (hereinafter referred to as normal skin) of each patient was measured by water loss tester, and the difference value of TEWL between scar skin and normal skin (hereinafter referred to as the TEWL difference) was calculated. Data were statistically analyzed with chi-square test, Kruskal-Wallis rank sum test, paired sample t test, one-way analysis of variance, and Dunnett-t test for comparison, and the correlation between the difference value of TEWL and scar VSS score was analyzed with univariate linear regression analysis. Results: On admission, the scar VSS score of superficial scar patients was significantly lower than that of hypertrophic scar or atrophic scar patients (t=4.403, 4.768, P<0.01), and the scar VSS score of atrophic scar patients was significantly lower than that of hypertrophic scar patients (t=4.185, P<0.01). On admission, the TEWL of scar skin of superficial scar, hypertrophic scar, and atrophic scar patients were (18±4), (20±4), and (20±5) g·m^-2·h^-1 respectively, significantly higher than (12±3), (12±3), and (14±4) g·m^-2·h^-1 of normal skin (t=6.889, 10.221, 5.870, P<0.01). The difference values of TEWL of superficial scar, hypertrophic scar, and atrophic scar patients were (5.9±1.7), (8.1±1.7), and (6.4±2.1) g·m^-2·h^-1 respectively. In comparison among different types of scar patients, only the TEWL difference of hypertrophic scar patients was significantly higher than that of superficial scar patients (t=6.975, P<0.05). The TEWL difference and the scar VSS score in patients with superficial scars, hypertrophic scars, and atrophic scars were significantly positively correlated (r=0.805, 0.872, 0.826, P<0.01). Conclusions: The TEWL of scar skin in patients with superficial scars, hypertrophic scars, and atrophic scars is increased compared with normal skin, and the degree of increase was positively correlated with the severity of scars.

[PI3K/Akt signaling pathway mediates the protective effect of endomorphin-1 postconditioning against myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the role of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway in mediating the protective effect of endomorphin-1 against myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury.

OBJECTIVE

Fifty SD male rats were randomly divided into sham operation group, myocardial IR group, endomorphin-1 post-treatment group (EM50 group), endomorphin-1+wortmannin (a PI3K/Akt signaling pathway inhibitor) treatment group (EM50+Wort group), and wortmannin treatment group (Wort group). Rat models of myocardial IR injury were established by ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery for 30 min followed by reperfusion for 120 min. The heart rate and mean arterial pressure were monitored during the experiment. Plasma levels of LDH, CK-MB, cTnI, IL-6, TNF-α, SOD and MDA were measured after reperfusion. The mRNA expression of Bax and Bcl-2 was detected using RT-PCR, and the expression of apoptosis-related protein cleaved caspase-3, phosphorylated Akt protein and total Akt protein in myocardial tissue was detected using Western blotting.

OBJECTIVE

Myocardial IR injury significantly decreased heart rate and blood pressure of the rats in comparison with the sham operation (P < 0.05). Compared with those in the IR group, the rats in EM50 group showed significantly increased heart rate and blood pressure (P < 0.05) with decreased plasma LDH, CK-MB, cTnI, IL-6, TNF-α and MDA levels (P < 0.05), increased SOD activity (P < 0.05), increased expression of p-Akt protein and Bcl-2 mRNA (P < 0.05), and decreased expression of Bax mRNA and cleaved caspase-3 protein (P < 0.05). In EM50+Wort group, the heart rate and blood pressure were significantly lowered (P < 0.05), plasma LDH, CK-MB, cTnI, IL-6, TNF-α and MDA levels increased (P < 0.05), SOD activity decreased (P < 0.05), the expression of p-Akt protein and Bcl-2 mRNA was reduced (P < 0.05), and the expression of Bax mRNA and cleaved caspase-3 protein increased (P < 0.05) as compared with those in EM50 group.

OBJECTIVE

EM-1 postconditioning can regulate cardiac myocyte apoptosis and reduce myocardial IR injury in rats. The PI3K/Akt signaling pathway may play a role in mediating the myocardial protective effects of EM-1 postconditioning.

POS0651 CLINICAL AND FUNCTIONAL RESPONSE TO TOFACITINIB IN PATIENTS WITH RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS: PROBABILITY PLOT ANALYSIS OF RESULTS FROM A 48-WEEK PHASE 3b/4 METHOTREXATE WITHDRAWAL STUDY

Background:

The Phase 3b/4 study ORAL Shift (NCT02831855) demonstrated sustained efficacy/safety of tofacitinib modified-release 11 mg QD following MTX withdrawal, that was non-inferior to continued tofacitinib + MTX use, in patients (pts) with moderate to severe RA who achieved LDA with tofacitinib + MTX at Week (W)24.1

Objectives:

To assess differences and similarities in clinical/functional responses in pts receiving tofacitinib ± MTX in ORAL Shift.

Methods:

In ORAL Shift, pts received open-label tofacitinib + MTX to W24; at W24, pts who achieved CDAI LDA were randomised to receive tofacitinib + MTX or tofacitinib + placebo (PBO) from W24–48. In this post hoc analysis, clinical efficacy endpoints were ACR-N (minimum % change from baseline [BL; Δ] at W48 achieved by each pt in 3 efficacy measures), ΔDAS28-4(ESR), and DAS28-4(ESR) remission/LDA (scores ≤3.2) and moderate/high disease activity (scores >3.2). Functional efficacy endpoints were ΔHAQ-DI and HAQ-DI clinically relevant functional progression (CRFP) status at W48, defined as failure to achieve improvement in HAQ-DI ≥ minimum clinically important difference (MCID; ≥0.22 decrease from BL in HAQ-DI). Thus, CRFP was defined as <0.22 decrease, no change or increase from BL in HAQ-DI at W48. All efficacy endpoints were summarised descriptively. Cumulative probability plots of ACR-N and ΔHAQ-DI were produced. Median of mean CRP values from BL–W24 and >W24–48 were assessed by response subgroups.

Results:

266 pts receiving tofacitinib + MTX and 264 pts receiving tofacitinib + PBO in W24–48 were included. At W48: mean ACR-N was numerically greater with tofacitinib + MTX vs tofacitinib + PBO (60.8 vs 53.1); mean decrease in HAQ-DI was generally similar between groups (-0.71 vs -0.67); mean decrease in DAS28-4(ESR) was numerically greater with tofacitinib + MTX vs tofacitinib + PBO (-2.95 vs -2.68). The differences/similarities between groups in ACR-N and ΔHAQ-DI were also seen in cumulative probability plots (Figure 1). CRFP rates were numerically lower with tofacitinib + MTX (18.7%) vs tofacitinib + PBO (23.5%), and in pts with remission/LDA (tofacitinib + MTX, 12.1%; tofacitinib + PBO, 16.8%) vs moderate/high disease activity (tofacitinib + MTX, 26.2%; tofacitinib + PBO, 30.8%). Median of mean CRP over time was generally numerically lower in pts with CRFP vs non-CRFP and DAS28-4(ESR)-defined remission/LDA vs moderate/high disease activity; and in those receiving tofacitinib + PBO vs tofacitinib + MTX, irrespective of CRFP or DAS28-4(ESR) disease status (Table 1).

Table 1.

Median of mean CRPa up to W48 by response subgroups

Tofacitinib 11 mg QD + MTXTofacitinib 11 mg QD + PBOMean CRP,amedian (IQR) [n]>BL–W24>W24–48>BL–W24>W24–48HAQ-DI CRFP2.84 (1.15–7.30)2.30 (0.82–4.75)1.45 (0.77–4.42)2.28 (0.53–7.28)[45][46][56][56]HAQ-DI non-CRFP2.81 (1.09–6.19)2.91 (1.19–5.84)2.26 (0.98–4.63)2.47 (1.13–5.53)[195][195][176][178]DAS28-4(ESR) remission/LDA2.48 (1.05–4.95)2.46 (1.07–4.76)1.70 (0.89–4.14)1.95 (0.81–3.82)[126][127][115][117]DAS28-4(ESR) moderate/high disease activity3.56 (1.17–7.13)3.58 (1.36–8.33)2.60 (0.87–5.16)2.68 (1.34–8.23)[107][107][115][115]

aMean CRP was calculated as the average CRP value during each time period (>BL–W24 or >W24–48)

CRP, C-reactive protein; DAS28-4(ESR), Disease Activity Score in 28 joints, erythrocyte sedimentation rate; HAQ-DI, Health Assessment Questionnaire-Disability Index; IQR, interquartile range; LDA, low disease activity; MTX, methotrexate; n, number of pts meeting assessment criteria; QD, once daily

Conclusion:

Although clinical/functional responses were generally similar between treatment groups, numerical improvements were seen for some efficacy endpoints with tofacitinib + MTX vs tofacitinib + PBO. A numerically higher CRFP rate may be associated with higher DAS28-4(ESR) disease activity. CRP changes up to W48 may not trend with CRFP status.

References:

[1]Cohen et al. Lancet Rheumatol 2019; 1: E23-34.

Acknowledgements:

Study sponsored by Pfizer Inc. Medical writing support was provided by Anthony G McCluskey, CMC Connect, and funded by Pfizer Inc.

Disclosure of Interests:

Stanley B. Cohen Consultant of: AbbVie, Eli Lilly, Genentech, Gilead Sciences, Pfizer Inc, Grant/research support from: AbbVie, Eli Lilly, Genentech, Gilead Sciences, Pfizer Inc, Yi-Hsing Chen Grant/research support from: Bristol-Myers Squibb, GlaxoSmithKline, Pfizer Inc, Naonobu Sugiyama Shareholder of: Pfizer Inc, Employee of: Pfizer Inc, Jose Luis Rivas Shareholder of: Pfizer Inc, Employee of: Pfizer Inc, Annette Diehl Shareholder of: Pfizer Inc, Employee of: Pfizer Inc, Tatjana Lukic Shareholder of: Pfizer Inc, Employee of: Pfizer Inc, Jerome Paulissen Consultant of: Pfizer Inc, Haiyun Fan Shareholder of: Pfizer Inc, Employee of: Pfizer Inc, Tomohiro Hirose Shareholder of: Pfizer Inc, Employee of: Pfizer Inc, Edward Keystone Speakers bureau: AbbVie, Amgen, F. Hoffman-La Roche, Janssen, Merck, Novartis, Pfizer Inc, Sanofi Genzyme, Consultant of: AbbVie, Amgen, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Celltrion, Eli Lilly, F. Hoffman-La Roche, Gilead Sciences, Janssen, Merck, Myriad Autoimmune, Pfizer Inc, Sandoz, Sanofi Genzyme, Samsung Bioepsis, Grant/research support from: Amgen, Merck, Pfizer Inc, PuraPharm

Generation of a new immortalized human lung pericyte cell line: a promising tool for human lung pericyte studies

Pericytes apposed to the capillary endothelium are known to stabilize and promote endothelial integrity. Recent studies indicate that lung pericytes play a prominent role in lung physiology, and they are involved in the development of various lung diseases including lung injury in sepsis, pulmonary fibrosis, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. Accordingly, human lung pericyte studies are important for understanding the mechanistic basis of lung physiology and pathophysiology; however, human lung pericytes can only be cultured for a few passages and no immortalized human lung pericyte cell line has been established so far. Thus, our study aims to establish an immortalized human lung pericyte cell line. Developed using SV40 large T antigen lentivirus, immortalized pericytes exhibit stable SV40T expression, sustained proliferation, and have significantly higher telomerase activity compared to normal human lung pericytes. In addition, these cells retained pericyte characteristics, marked by similar morphology, and expression of pericyte cell surface markers such as PDGFRβ, NG2, CD44, CD146, CD90, and CD73. Furthermore, similar to that of primary pericytes, immortalized pericytes promoted endothelial cell tube formation and responded to different stimuli. Our previous data showed that friend leukemia virus integration 1 (Fli-1), a member of the ETS transcription factor family, is a key regulator that modulates inflammatory responses in mouse lung pericytes. We further demonstrated that Fli-1 regulates inflammatory responses in immortalized human lung pericytes. To summarize, we successfully established an immortalized human lung pericyte cell line, which serves as a promising tool for in vitro pericyte studies to understand human lung pericyte physiology and pathophysiology.

LncRNA SNHG15 promotes the proliferation of nasopharyngeal carcinoma via sponging miR-141-3p to upregulate KLF9

OBJECTIVE

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been identified to exert an oncogenic or anti-tumor function in malignant tumors. LncRNA SNHG15 is verified to be an oncogene in hepatocellular carcinoma, colorectal cancer, and prostate cancer. In this paper, we mainly investigate the potential influence of SNHG15 on the progression of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

SNHG15 levels in NPC tissues and cell lines were detected by quantitative Real Time-Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR). Correlation between SNHG15 level and prognosis of NPC patients was evaluated by the Kaplan-Meier method. Regulatory effects of SNHG15 on proliferative, colony formation abilities, and apoptosis of SUNE1 and CNE1 cells were assessed through a series of functional experiments. Potential miRNAs binding SNHG15 and the downstream gene of the microRNA (miRNA) were predicted by bioinformatics method, which was confirmed by Dual-Luciferase reporter gene assay and Western blot.

RESULTS

SNHG15 was upregulated in NPC tissues and cells. High level of SNHG15 indicated worse survival in NPC patients. Knockdown of SNHG15 markedly suppressed proliferative ability and induced apoptosis in SUNE1 and CNE1 cells. It is verified that miR-141-3p was the direct target binding SNHG15, and KLF9 was the downstream gene of miR-141-3p. SNHG15 was demonstrated to be a ceRNA to upregulate KLF9 by competitively binding miR-141-3p.

CONCLUSIONS

SNHG15 is upregulated in NPC tissues, and this aggravates the progression of NPC by absorbing miR-141-3p to upregulate KLF9.

Quantitative characterisation of the ring normal modes. Pyridine as a study case

In the present work, the vibrational normal modes (NM) of pyridine were revisited. Quantum Chemical calculations were performed to help understand the true nature of some ring related vibrational normal modes (RNM) and how they may be correlated with the electronic structure on the ring. The 27 vibrational normal modes were decomposed into the molecular internal coordinates, and the interest was focused on 7 of them, involving the in-plane ring motion. The electronic structure was analysed through frontier Molecular Orbitals (MO), maps of Molecular Electrostatic Potential surfaces (MEPs) and Natural Bond Orbital (NBO) analysis in a dynamic manner, wherein, each vibration was scanned. The present investigation is aimed to provide the Reader with a quantitative characterisation of the RNMs of pyridine.

Expression of GM-CSF Is Regulated by Fli-1 Transcription Factor, a Potential Drug Target

Friend leukemia virus integration 1 (Fli-1) is an ETS transcription factor and a critical regulator of inflammatory mediators, including MCP-1, CCL5, IL-6, G-CSF, CXCL2, and caspase-1. GM-CSF is a regulator of granulocyte and macrophage lineage differentiation and a key player in the pathogenesis of inflammatory/autoimmune diseases. In this study, we demonstrated that Fli-1 regulates the expression of GM-CSF in both T cells and endothelial cells. The expression of GM-CSF was significantly reduced in T cells and endothelial cells when Fli-1 was reduced. We found that Fli-1 binds directly to the GM-CSF promoter using chromatin immunoprecipitation assay. Transient transfection assays indicated that Fli-1 drives transcription from the GM-CSF promoter in a dose-dependent manner, and mutation of the Fli-1 DNA binding domain resulted in a significant loss of transcriptional activation. Mutation of a known phosphorylation site within the Fli-1 protein led to a significant increase in GM-CSF promoter activation. Thus, direct binding to the promoter and phosphorylation are two important mechanisms behind Fli-1-driven activation of the GM-CSF promoter. In addition, Fli-1 regulates GM-CSF expression in an additive manner with another transcription factor Sp1. Finally, we demonstrated that a low dose of a chemotherapeutic drug, camptothecin, inhibited expression of Fli-1 and reduced GM-CSF production in human T cells. These results demonstrate novel mechanisms for regulating the expression of GM-CSF and suggest that Fli-1 is a critical druggable regulator of inflammation and immunity.

[Study on the influence of sleeve height and implant length on accuracy of static computer-assisted implant surgery]

Objective: To evaluate the influence of the sleeve lengths and implant lengths on accuracy of static computer-assisted implant surgery (sCAIS). Methods: Twenty-eight models of bilateral mandibular single tooth loss were included. Fifty-five implants were placed under the guidance of sCAIS (Straumann Bone Level 4.1 mm×10 mm). According to the height of metal sleeve of static guide plate, 55 implants were divided into 11 groups (free hand group, 1 mm group, 2 mm group, 3 mm group, 4 mm group, 5 mm group, 6 mm group, 7 mm group, 8 mm group, 9 mm group, 10 mm group), with 5 implants in each group. Eight research models were included. Group with 5 mm sleeve guides were used to place implants of different length, (Straumann Bone Level width 4.1 mm, height was 8 mm, 10 mm and 14 mm), 5 implants in each group. Eighteen patients with mandibular single tooth loss were included in the Department of Oral Implantology, Tianjin Stomatological Hospital from October 2018 to June 2019. There were 10 males and 8 females, 18-46(33.7±7.9) years old. A total of 18 implants were implanted and divided into 3 groups (free hand group, 3 mm group and 5 mm group) with 6 implants in each group. Digital software was used to compare the implant positions before and after implantation. Non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis test or one-way ANOVA were used to analyze the results. Results: There was no significant difference in implant vertical deviation between different sleeve height groups (1-10 mm) and free hand group, but the neck deviation in free hand group[(1.04±0.13) mm] was significantly higher than that in different sleeve height groups (1-10 mm) (P<0.05). The tip deviations of free hand group, 1 mm group and 2 mm group [(1.32±0.43), (0.83±0.10) and (0.78±0.11) mm, respectively] was significantly higher than that of 10 mm group [(0.31±0.14) mm](P<0.05). The angle deviation of free hand group and 1 mm group (3.99°±0.85° and 2.59°±0.69°), respectively] was significantly higher than that of 10 mm group (0.61°±0.03°) (P<0.05). The tip deviations of implants in the 14 mm group [(0.83±0.22) mm] was significantly higher than that in the 8 mm and 10 mm groups [(0.44±0.07) and (0.49±0.06) mm, respectively]. Clinical studies showed that there was no significant difference in neck deviation, tip deviation and angle deviation between 3 mm group and 5 mm group (P>0.05), but deviations were significantly lower than those in free hand group (P<0.05). Conclusions: The length of the sleeves has significant influence on the accuracy of the surgical guide. There was no significant difference in accuracy of the implant guide with 3 mm or 5 mm metal sleeves. The vitro study has some limitations and needs further systematic research.

The effect of in-hospital high-dose vs. low-dose intensive statin in patients with non-ST segment elevation acute coronary syndrome

Background

Statins remain a standard treatment for acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients. We aimed to determine the association between different dosages of in-hospital statins and the prognoses among patients receiving percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Methods

NSTE-ACS patients were retrospectively enrolled from January 2010 to December 2014 from five centres in China. Patients receiving either atorvastatin or rosuvastatin during their hospitalizations were included. All the patients were categorized into high-dose statin group (40mg atorvastatin or 20mg rosuvastatin) or low-dose statin group (20mg atorvastatin or 10mg rosuvastatin). In-hospital events and long-term all-cause death was recorded.

Results

Of the 7,008 patients included in the study, 5,248 received low-dose intensive statin (mean age: 64.28±10.39; female: 25.2%), and 1,760 received high-dose intensive statin (mean age: 63.68±10.59; female: 23.1%). There was no significant difference in in-hospital all-cause death between the two groups (adjusted OR, 1.27; P=0.665). All-cause death was similar between the two groups during the long-term follow-up period (30-day: adjusted HR, 1.28; P=0.571; 3-year: adjusted HR, 0.83; P=0.082). However, there was a robust association between the high-dose statin and the reduction in in-hospital dialysis (adjusted OR, 0.11; P=0.030).

Conclusions

The in-hospital high-dose intensive statin is not associated with lower risks of in-hospital or follow-up all-cause death in NSTE-ACS patients undergoing PCI. Considering the robust beneficial effect of in-hospital dialysis, an individualized high-dose intensive statin can be rational in specified populations.

Univariate and multivariate analyses

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): The Science and Technology Planning Project of Guangzhou City athe China Youth Research Funding

MiR-155 regulates the proliferation and apoptosis of pancreatic cancer cells through targeting SOCS3

OBJECTIVE

Reduced expression of suppressors of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) is associated with a variety of tumors. The elevated miR-155 expression is associated with the onset of pancreatic cancer. Bioinformatics analysis revealed a targeted relation between miR-155 and the 3'-UTR of SOCS3. This study investigated whether miR-155 regulates SOCS3 expression and affects the biological effects of pancreatic cancer cells.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

QRT-PCR was used to detect the expression of miR-155 and SCOS3 mRNA in tumor tissues and paracancerous tissues of patients with pancreatic cancer. The dual luciferase reporter gene assay validated the target interaction between miR-155 and SOCS3. Pancreatic cancer cell line SW1990 cells were divided into miR-NC group and miR-155 inhibitor group followed by an analysis of the expressions of SOCS3, p-JAK2 and p-STAT3, cell apoptosis by flow cytometry, and cell proliferation by EdU staining.

RESULTS

Compared with adjacent tissues, miR-155 expression was increased in tumor tissues of patients with pancreatic cancer, and SOCS3 expression was decreased. There was a targeted regulatory relationship between miR-155 and SOCS3 mRNA. Compared with HPDE6-C7 cells, miR-155 expression in pancreatic cancer SW1990 and Capan-1 cells was increased, and SOCS3 expression was decreased. Transfection of miR-155 inhibitor significantly increased SOCS3 expression in pancreatic cancer SW1990 cells, decreased the expression of p-JAK2 and p-STAT3, increased cell apoptosis, and decreased cell proliferation.

CONCLUSIONS

Increased miR-155 expression and decreased SOCS3 expression are related to the pathogenesis of pancreatic cancer. miR-155 inhibits the proliferation and apoptosis of pancreatic cancer cells by inhibition of SOCS3 expression.

miR-145a Regulation of Pericyte Dysfunction in a Murine Model of Sepsis

BACKGROUND

Sepsis is a life-threatening systemic disease with severe microvascular dysfunction. Pericytes preserve vascular homeostasis. To our knowledge, the potential roles of microRNAs in sepsis-induced pericyte dysfunction have not been explored.

METHODS

We determined lung pericyte expression of miR-145a in cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced sepsis. Mouse lung pericytes were isolated and transfected with a miR-145a mimic, followed by stimulation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). We measured inflammatory cytokine levels. To assess the functions of miR-145a in vivo, we generated a pericyte-specific miR-145a-knockout mouse and determined sepsis-induced organ injury, lung and renal vascular leakage, and mouse survival rates. We used RNA sequencing and Western blotting to analyze the signaling pathways regulated by miR-145a.

RESULTS

CLP led to decreased miR-145a expression in lung pericytes. The miR-145a mimic inhibited LPS-induced increases in cytokines. In CLP-induced sepsis, pericytes lacking miR-145a exhibited increased lung and kidney vascular leakage and reduced survival rates. We found that miR-145a could suppress LPS-induced NF-κB activation. In addition, we confirmed that the transcription factor Friend leukemia virus integration 1 (Fli-1) is a target of miR-145a and that Fli-1 activates NF-κB signaling.

CONCLUSION

Our results demonstrated that pericyte miR-145a mediates sepsis-associated microvascular dysfunction, potentially by means of Fli-1-mediated modulation of NF-κB signaling.

miR-490-3p modulates the progression of prostate cancer through regulating histone deacetylase 2

OBJECTIVE

microRNAs (miRNAs) were regarded as critical participators for human cancers progression including prostate cancer (PCa) and have the potential to be used as treatment targets for cancers. Herein, we validated a tumor-suppressive miRNA, miR-490-3p, which may suppress PCa progression. Histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2) is a protein that aberrantly expressed in several cancers. However, the role of HDAC2 in the progression of PCa has not been fully elucidated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Expression of miR-490-3p and HDAC2 in PCa was investigated. The effects of miR-490-3p or HDAC2 expression on PCa cell behaviors were analyzed. Association between miR-490-3p and HDAC2 was analyzed by luciferase activity reporter assay and Western blot assay.

RESULTS

We demonstrated that miR-490-3p functioned as a tumor-suppressive role in PCa progression. We found miR-490-3p expression was decreased in PCa cell lines. Down-regulation of miR-490-3p promoted the growth, migration, invasion but inhibited apoptosis of PCa cells. HDAC2 was validated as a direct target of miR-490-3p and promoted the progression of PCa cells. Further studies showed that HDAC2 could reverse the effects of miR-490-3p on growth, migration, invasion and apoptosis of PCa cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data highlighted the key role of miR-490-3p in the progression of PCa. Thus, miR-490-3p may be a novel cancer-specific therapeutic.

MiR-150 alleviates EMT and cell invasion of colorectal cancer through targeting Gli1

Since this article has been suspected of research misconduct and the corresponding authors did not respond to our request to prove originality of data and figures, "MiR-150 alleviates EMT and cell invasion of colorectal cancer through targeting Gli1, by H. Fan, X. Liu, W.-W. Zheng, Z.-H. Zhuang, C.-D. Wang, published in Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2017; 21 (21): 4853-4859-PMID: 29164577" has been withdrawn. The Publisher apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause. https://www.europeanreview.org/article/13726.

Comparisons of different classification algorithms while using text mining to screen psychiatric inpatients with suicidal behaviors

OBJECTIVE

To compare the performance of methods based on text mining to screen suicidal behaviors according to chief complaint of the psychiatric inpatients.

METHODS

Electronic Medical Records of inpatients with mental disorders were collected. Text mining method was adopted to screen suicidal behaviors. The performances of different combinations of six algorithms and two term weighting factors were compared under various training set sizes, which were assessed by precision, recall, F1-value and accuracy.

RESULTS

A total of 3600 psychiatric inpatients (1800 with suicidal behaviors and 1800 without suicidal behaviors) were included in this study. In chief complaints of suicidal inpatients, "suicide", "notion" and "suspicion" were the commonest statements, appearing 1228, 705 and 638 times respectively. In contrast, "excitement", "instability" and "impulsion" appeared more frequently in chief complaints of patients without suicidal behaviors (599, 599, 534 times respectively). The performance of each algorithm was generally improved with the increasing training set sizes and tended to be stable when the number of training cases reached 1000, where most of them could achieve satisfactory accuracy values (>0.95). Results of testing set showed that SVM, Random Forest and AdaBoost weighted by TF had better generalization ability. The F1 values were 0.9889 for SVM, 0.9838 for random forest and 0.9828 for AdaBoost, respectively.

CONCLUSION

This study confirmed the feasibility of filtering suicidal inpatients with small amounts of representative terms. SVM, Random Forest and AdaBoost weighted by TF have better performance in this task. Our findings provided a practical way to automatically classify patients with or without suicidal behaviors before admission to hospital, which potentially led to considerable savings in time and human resources for identification of high-risk patients and suicide prevention.

Circulating miRNA 887 is differentially expressed in ARDS and modulates endothelial function

Circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) can be taken up by recipient cells and have been recently associated with the acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Their role in host predisposition to the syndrome is unknown. The objective of the study was to identify circulating miRNAs associated with the development of sepsis-related ARDS and examine their impact on endothelial cell gene expression and function. We determined miRNA levels in plasma collected from subjects during the first 24 h of admission to a tertiary intensive care unit for sepsis. A miRNA that was differentially expressed between subjects who did and did not develop ARDS was identified and was transfected into human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (HPMECs). RNA sequencing, in silico analysis, cytokine expression, and leukocyte migration assays were used to determine the impact of this miRNA on gene expression and cell function. In two cohorts, circulating miR-887-3p levels were elevated in septic patients who developed ARDS compared with those who did not. Transfection of miR-887-3p into HPMECs altered gene expression, including the upregulation of several genes previously associated with ARDS (e.g., CXCL10, CCL5, CX3CL1, VCAM1, CASP1, IL1B, IFNB, and TLR2), and activation of cellular pathways relevant to the response to infection. Functionally, miR-887-3p increased the endothelial release of chemokines and facilitated trans-endothelial leukocyte migration. Circulating miR-887-3p is associated with ARDS in critically ill patients with sepsis. In vitro, miR-887-3p regulates the expression of genes relevant to ARDS and neutrophil tracking. This miRNA may contribute to ARDS pathogenesis and could represent a novel therapeutic target.

Regulation of dendritic cell function improves survival in experimental sepsis through immune chaperone

Dendritic cells (DCs) are professional Ag-presenting cells that play a critical role in both innate and adaptive immune responses. DCs recognize and respond to bacteria through multiple PRRs, including TLRs. Heat shock protein gp96/grp94 is a master essential chaperone for TLRs in the endoplasmic reticulum. We generated DC-specific gp96-knockout (KO) mice and showed that gp96 KO DCs were unable to respond to multiple TLR ligands. TLR-mediated hyperinflammatory response can lead to sepsis. However, the roles of neither DCs nor the DC-intrinsic gp96 in the process are completely understood. In a LPS-induced sepsis model, we hereby found that deletion of gp96 in DCs significantly reduced serum TNF-α levels and improved survival. Furthermore, using the well-defined polymicrobial sepsis model of cecal ligation and puncture, we found that DC-specific ablation of gp96 improved survival with significantly attenuated liver and renal injuries, decreased circulating inflammatory cytokines, altered DC maturation and activation, and increased serum Ig. Collectively, we demonstrate that deletion of gp96 in DCs is beneficial in protecting mice against sepsis induced by both endotoxemia and polymicrobial infections. We conclude that targeting gp96 in DCs may provide a potential novel approach for reducing the morbidity and mortality of sepsis.

Stable expression ratios of five pyroptosis-inducing cytokines in the spleen and thymus of mice showed potential immune regulation at the organ level

BACKGROUND

The immune system is one of the most complex regulatory systems in the body and is essential for the maintenance of homeostasis. Despite recent breakthroughs in immunology, the regulation of the immune system and the etiology of autoimmune diseases such as lupus remain unclear. Systemic lupus erythematosus is a systemic autoimmune disease with abnormally and inconsistently expressed pro-inflammatory cytokines. Pyroptosis is a pro-inflammatory form of programmed cell death that is associated with systemic lupus erythematosus. The thymus and spleen are important immune organs involved in systemic lupus erythematosus. Therefore, this study investigated the difference in expression of pyroptosis-inducing pro-inflammatory cytokines between the spleen and thymus in lupus model mice and in control mice, to describe immune regulation at the organ level.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate differences in the expression of pyroptosis-inducing cytokines in the spleen and thymus and to explore immune regulatory networks at the organ level.

METHODS

Two groups of lupus mice and two groups of control mice were utilized for this study. Using the thymus and spleen of experimental animals, mRNA expression levels of five pyroptosis-inducing cytokines (interleukin 1β, interleukin 18, NLRP3, caspase-1 and TNF-α) were determined via quantitative polymerase chain reaction. In addition, tissue distribution of these cytokines was investigated via immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

All five pyroptosis-inducing inflammatory cytokines showed higher expression in the spleen than in the thymus (p < 0.05). Moreover, the spleen/thymus expression ratios of all five pyroptosis-inducing cytokines were not statistically different between the four experimental groups. Expression of all five cytokines exhibited a stable ratio (spleen/thymus ratios). This distinctive stable spleen/thymus ratio was consistent in all four experimental groups. The stable spleen/thymus ratios of the five inflammatory cytokines were as follows: interleukin 1β (2.02 ± 0.9), interleukin 18 (2.07 ± 1.06), caspase-1 (1.93 ± 0.66), NLRP3 (3.14 ± 1.61) and TNF-α (3.16 ± 1.36). Immunohistochemical analysis showed the cytokines were mainly expressed in the red pulp region of the spleen and the medullary region of the thymus, where immune-activated cells aggregated.

CONCLUSION

The stable spleen/thymus expression ratios of pyroptosis-inducing cytokines indicated that immune organs exhibit strictly regulated functions to maintain immune homeostasis and adapt to the environment.

Analysis of Protein Synthesis in Cucumber Leaves after Inoculation with Corynespora cassiicola: A Proteomic Approach

Cucumber target leaf spot (TLS) disease caused by Corynespora cassiicola has become one of the most important fungal foliar diseases of cultivated cucumbers. However, the defense mechanisms of cucumber plants (Cucumis sativus) against C. cassiicola are still poorly understood. Here, proteins from resistant cucumber plants were analyzed using iTRAQ (isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification) method. A total of 286 differentially expressed proteins were identified (p < 0.05, ratio > 1.2 or < 0.83) 6 and 24 h after pathogen inoculation in the resistant cultivar Jinyou 38 (the data are available via ProteomeXchange; identifier, PXD012903). Some of the early responses to C. cassiicola infection were revealed, and four factors related to the resistance of cucumber plants to TLS were discovered. First, the proteomic approach revealed modulation of signaling pathways in resistant cucumber plants in response to C. cassiicola infection. Second, the plant immune system recognizes the pathogen and initiates expression of immune response proteins, including those related to plant defense, stress response, signal transduction, cell metabolism, and redox regulation. Third, C. cassiicola activates common stress response pathways; in particular, mildew resistance locus O (MLO) proteins were found to play a crucial role in the TLS prevention. Fourth, rapid activation of the carbohydrate and secondary metabolic pathways, modification and reinforcement of cell walls, and adjustment of the apoplastic environment to the highly stressful conditions were crucial in the cucumber resistance to TLS. Overall, our data contribute to the understanding of interactions between plants and their pathogens and provide new insight into molecular processes involved in the resistance of cucumber plants to disease.

[Effect of intravenous granisetron combined and acupuncture point injection at PC6(Neiguan) with 0.9% sodium chlorideon postoperative nausea and vomiting after gynecological laparoscopy]

Objective: To observe the effects of intravenous granisetron and acupuncture point injection at PC6(Neiguan) with 0.9% sodium chloride on postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) after gynecological laparoscopic surgery. Methods: Qualified cases were collected according to prospective randomized controlled clinical trial design. 94 cases patients undergoing gynecological laparoscopic surgery without postoperative intravenous analgesia were selected from February 2017 to November 2018 in Beijing Aerospace General Hospital and The Affiliated Hangzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University. The patients were randomly divided into three groups: bilateral PC6 sham injection of 0.9% sodium chloride+ intravenous granisetron(group A, n=31); bilateral acupuncture point injection at PC6 of 0.9% sodium chloride+ intravenous 0.9% sodium chloride(group B, n=33); bilateral acupuncture point injection at PC6 of 0.9% sodium chloride+ intravenous granisetron(group C, n=30). The indexes including age, body mass index(BMI), type of surgery, surgery time, anesthesia time, liquid intake and output volume, the time from the completion of the operation to the removal of the tracheal catheter, the time from the completion to follow the instruction, respiratory depression, restlessness, arrhythmias and other adverse reactions during anesthesia recovery were recorded. Evaluated the nausea and vomiting according to the visual analogue scales (nausea visual analog scale, NVAS) 12 hours after the operation. Not only the dose and the related frequency of antiemetic drugs for rescue, but also the time of the first anal exsufflation and the pain 24 hours after the operation were recorded. Detected the concentration of motilin (MTL), when the operation started/awake after extubation/12 hours after the operation Results: The incidence of nausea and vomiting 12 hours after the operation in group A, B and C was 35.5%, 33.3%, 10.0%. The difference was statistically significant (χ(2)=0.654, P<0.05). The motilin after 12 hours of operation in group A, B and C was (564±76),(559±84),(472±69) ng/L. The difference was statistically significant (F=14.033, P<0.05). The incidence of nausea and vomiting and the motilin after 12 hours of operation in group C were lower than group A and B. The time for the first anal exsufflation in group A, B and C was (19±8),(19±7),(14±8)h.The difference was statistically significant (F=4.523, P<0.05). The time for the first anal exsufflation in group C was earlier than group A and B. Conclusion: Either intravenous granisetron or acupuncture point injection at PC6 of 0.9% sodium chloride can effectively reduce the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting after gynecological laparoscopic surgery. Intravenous granisetron combined with acupuncture point injection at PC6 of 0.9% sodium chloride has better effect and promotes the first anal exsufflation time, which is conducive to the rapid postoperative recovery of patients.

THERMOLUMINESCENCE OF NEWLY DEVELOPED HIGHLY SENSITIVE α-Al2O3:C BY THE VERTICAL GRADIENT FREEZING METHOD

A highly sensitive α-Al2O3:C crystal was directly grown by the vertical gradient freezing (VGF) method using Al2O3 and graphite powder as the raw materials. The main thermoluminescence (TL) characteristics of α-Al2O3:C detectors grown by the VGF method and TLD-500K detectors were compared. The α-Al2O3:C grown by the VGF method shows good dosimetric properties, such as high TL sensitivity (152 times higher than that of the TLD-100 at heating rate of 1°C/s), an extremely low residual signal of 0.03%, a minimum measurable dose of 0.12 μGy and an excellent linear response within the dose range studied from 1 μGy to 10 Gy. The α-Al2O3:C detectors grown by the VGF method have a higher sensitivity and a better linear response compared to the TLD-500K detectors. Both kinds of α-Al2O3:C can be used in an unannealed form and to measure the very low dose in environmental monitoring and personnel dosimetry.

Differential tissue expression of erythroblast macrophage protein in a MRL/lpr mouse model of lupus

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to observe the expression features of erythroblast macrophage protein (EMP) between the tissues of MRL/lpr mice, a mouse model of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and control mice.

METHODS

We examined the serum ANA in both mice groups through indirect immunofluorescence (IIF). Expression features of EMP in bone marrow, liver, renal, spleen, brain, and lung tissues of the MRL/lpr mice and control mice groups were followed using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (Q-PCR). Meanwhile, the expression of EMP was located through immunohistochemical (IHC) studies and the expressive cell identified through double immunofluorescent labeling.

RESULTS

IIF showed that lupus mice have strong positive fluorescence, but no significant fluorescence was observed in control mice. Q-PCR detection revealed that EMP was expressed in the marrow, liver, renal, spleen, lung, and brain tissues of lupus mice. The highest levels were observed in the bone marrow, but there was no statistical difference between these tissues. EMP mRNA expression in the liver (t = 2.747, p = 0.01) and bone marrow (t = 3.853, p = 0.008) of lupus mice was significantly higher than in the control mice. However, no differences in EMP mRNA expression were observed in the renal, spleen, lung, and brain tissues between the lupus and control mice (p > 0.05). In addition, the IHC results showed that EMP protein is ubiquitously expressed in all of the tissues of the lupus and control mice. The positive expression rate in the bone marrow and liver tissues of the lupus mice was higher than in the control mice, but without an obvious difference in the other tissues. The double IF staining method shows that EMP protein was expressed in macrophages in the tissues of the lupus mice and the control mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data showed that EMP is ubiquitously expressed in macrophages at all of the tissues of the lupus and control mice. However, the expression of EMP in bone marrow and liver tissues of lupus mice was higher than in the control mice, which indicates that EMP may be important in the development of SLE.

Elastocapillary self-assembled neurotassels for stable neural activity recordings

Implantable neural probes that are mechanically compliant with brain tissue offer important opportunities for stable neural interfaces in both basic neuroscience and clinical applications. Here, we developed a Neurotassel consisting of an array of flexible and high-aspect ratio microelectrode filaments. A Neurotassel can spontaneously assemble into a thin and implantable fiber through elastocapillary interactions when withdrawn from a molten, tissue-dissolvable polymer. Chronically implanted Neurotassels elicited minimal neuronal cell loss in the brain and enabled stable activity recordings of the same population of neurons in mice learning to perform a task. Moreover, Neurotassels can be readily scaled up to 1024 microelectrode filaments, each with a neurite-scale cross-sectional footprint of 3 × 1.5 μm², to form implantable fibers with a total diameter of ~100 μm. With their ultrasmall sizes, high flexibility, and scalability, Neurotassels offer a new approach for stable neural activity recording and neuroprosthetics.

Exosomes from endothelial progenitor cells improve outcomes of the lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury

Background

The acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is characterized by disruption of the alveolar-capillary barrier resulting in accumulation of proteinaceous edema and increased inflammatory cells in the alveolar space. We previously found that endothelial progenitor cell (EPC) exosomes prevent endothelial dysfunction and lung injury in sepsis in part due to their encapsulation of miRNA-126. However, the effects of EPC exosomes in acute lung injury (ALI) remain unknown.

Methods

To determine if EPC exosomes would have beneficial effects in ALI, intratracheal administration of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was used to induce ALI in mice. Lung permeability, inflammation, and the role of miRNA-126 in the alveolar-epithelial barrier function were examined.

Results

The intratracheal administration of EPC exosomes reduced lung injury following LPS-induced ALI at 24 and 48 h. Compared to placebo, intratracheal administration of EPC exosomes significantly reduced the cell number, protein concentration, and cytokines/chemokines in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), indicating a reduction in permeability and inflammation. Further, EPC exosomes reduced myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, lung injury score, and pulmonary edema, demonstrating protection against lung injury. Murine fibroblast (NIH3T3) exosomes, which do not contain abundant miRNA-126, did not provide these beneficial effects. In human small airway epithelial cells (SAECs), we found that overexpression of miRNA-126-3p can target phosphoinositide-3-kinase regulatory subunit 2 (PIK3R2), while overexpression of miRNA-126-5p inhibits the inflammatory alarmin HMGB1 and permeability factor VEGFα. Interestingly, both miR-126-3p and 5p increase the expression of tight junction proteins suggesting a potential mechanism by which miRNA-126 may mitigate LPS-induced lung injury.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrated that human EPC exosomes are beneficial in LPS-induced ALI mice, in part through the delivery of miRNA-126 into the injured alveolus.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s13054-019-2339-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Fli-1 transcription factor regulates the expression of caspase-1 in lung pericytes

Our previous data demonstrated that Friend leukemia virus integration 1 (Fli-1), an ETS transcription factor, governs pericyte loss and vascular dysfunction in cecal ligation and puncture-induced murine sepsis by regulating essential pyroptosis markers including caspase-1. However, whether Fli-1 regulates caspase-1 expression levels in vitro and how Fli-1 regulates caspase-1 remain unknown. Our present work further demonstrated that overexpressed Fli-1 significantly increased caspase-1 and IL-18 expression levels in cultured mouse lung pericytes. Bacterial outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) have been found to induce cell pyroptosis through transferring LPS intracellularly. Using OMVs to induce an in vitro model of pyroptosis, we observed that OMVs significantly increased protein levels of Fli-1 in mouse lung pericytes. Furthermore, knockdown of Fli-1 by siRNA blocked OMVs-induced caspase-1, caspase-11 and IL-18 expression levels. As caspase-1 was predicted as a potential target of Fli-1, we cloned murine caspase-1 promoter into a luciferase construct. Our data demonstrate for the first time that Fli-1 regulates caspase-1 expression by directly binding to its promoter regions measured by chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay and luciferase reporter system. In summary, our findings demonstrated a novel role and mechanism of Fli-1 in regulating caspase-1 expression in lung pericytes.