[Study on mechanism of icariin-induced ferroptosis in HepG2 hepatoma carcinoma cells through PPARG/FABP4/GPX4 pathway]

The aim of this study was to explore the mechanism of icaritin-induced ferroptosis in hepatoma HepG2 cells. By bioinformatics screening, the target of icariin's intervention in liver cancer ferroptosis was selected, the protein-protein interaction(PPI) network was constructed, the related pathways were focused, the binding ability of icariin and target protein was evaluated by molecular docking, and the impact on patients' survival prognosis was predicted and the clinical prediction model was built. CCK-8, EdU, and clonal formation assays were used to detect cell viability and cell proliferation; colorimetric method and BODIPY 581/591 C1 fluorescent probe were used to detect the levels of Fe~(2+), MDA and GSH in cells, and the ability of icariin to induce HCC cell ferroptosis was evaluated; RT-qPCR and Western blot detection were used to verify the mRNA and protein levels of GPX4, xCT, PPARG, and FABP4 to determine the expression changes of these ferroptosis-related genes in response to icariin. Six intervention targets(AR, AURKA, PPARG, AKR1C3, ALB, NQO1) identified through bioinformatic analysis were used to establish a risk scoring system that aids in estimating the survival prognosis of HCC patients. In conjunction with patient age and TNM staging, a comprehensive Nomogram clinical prediction model was developed to forecast the 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival of HCC patients. Experimental results revealed that icariin effectively inhibited the activity and proliferation of HCC cells HepG2, significantly modulating levels of Fe~(2+), MDA, and lipid peroxidation ROS while reducing GSH levels, hence revealing its potential to induce ferroptosis in HCC cells. Icariin was found to diminish the expression of GPX4 and xCT(P<0.01), inducing ferroptosis in HCC cells, potentially in relation to inhibition of PPARG and FABP4(P<0.01). In summary, icariin induces ferroptosis in HCC cells via the PPARG/FABP4/GPX4 pathway, providing an experimental foundation for utilizing the traditional Chinese medicine icariin in the prevention or treatment of HCC.

Effectiveness of acupuncture combined with artificial tears in managing dry eye syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Dry eye syndrome is an ocular surface disease with high incidence. Acupuncture combined with artificial tears is effective for treating dry eye syndrome. This study aimed to evaluate the evidence for the efficacy of acupuncture combined with artificial tears in dry eye syndrome by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

A systematic online search was performed from the date of database establishment to July 1, 2023. The study groups that addressed acupuncture combined with artificial tears for patients with dry eye syndrome (DES) and the control groups that addressed artificial tears were analyzed. The main outcomes were tear breakup time (BUT) and Schirmer I test (SIT), assessed as previously described.

RESULTS

Sixteen randomized or controlled trials met the selection criteria, and 1383 patients with DES were included in this study. The analysis results showed that BUT [Standard mean difference (SMD) = 1.25, 95% confidence interval (CI) (1.14, 1.37), P < .0001], SIT [SMD = 1.55, 95% CI (1.08, 2.02), P < .0001], and corneal fluorescein staining [SMD = -2.08, 95% CI (-2.96, -1.20), P < .00001] significantly improved in the trial groups compared with the control groups. The acupuncture treatment was more effective in reducing the levels of IL-6 (P < .0001) and TNF-α (P < .00001). The overall efficacy rate was better in the trial group than in the control group [odds ratio = 4.09, 95% CI (3.04, 5.51), P < .00001]. However, no significant difference was observed in the ocular surface disease index (P = .15) between the trial and control groups.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study indicated that acupuncture combined with artificial tears could be considered safe, effective to patients with DES.

[TXNDC17 protein overexpression in uterine papillary serous carcinoma is associated with clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis]

Objective: To analyze clinicopathological characteristics of patients with uterine papillary serous carcinoma (UPSC) in China, and investigate roles of TXNDC17 protein in UPSC clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis. Methods: Fifty-five patients with UPSC treated in Women's Hospital School of Medicine Zhejiang University from 2003 to 2016 were analysed retrospectively. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) were performed to TXNDC17 and BECN1 (Beclin 1 protein, a key regulator of autophagy) protein expression respectively. Kaplan-Meier was used to calculate the cumulative survival rate, Log-rank test was performed to compare the difference in cumulative survival rate among patients with different clinicopathological characteristics, and Cox regression model was used to analyze the related between TXNDC17 expression and prognosis of UPSC patients. Results: The median age of the 55 UPSC patients was 63(49, 79) years, 43.6%(24/55) with late stages (stage Ⅲ/Ⅳ), and 32.7 % (18/55) exhibiting more than half of myometrium invasion were enrolled. Notably, 28 (50.9%) patients had TXNDC17 protein overexpression, and associated with BECN1 overexpression(P=0.023). Besides, co-expression of TXNDC17 and BECN1 occurred at an advanced stage and deep myometrial invasion (P=0.013,0.009). The cumulative survival rate of TXNDC17 overexpression(37.4% vs 91.5%),FIGO Ⅲ/Ⅳ stage(44.1% vs 70.1%), deep myometrium invasion(36.1% vs 75.4%) and BECN1 overexpression(0 vs 83.0%)patients was low (P<0.05). The multivariate proportional hazards model revealed that myometrial invasion and TXNDC17 overexpression were associated with prognosis of UPSC patients. Conclusions: This study shows that TXNDC17 overexpression is associate with poor survival in UPSC patients. Co-expression of TXNDC17 and BECN1 shows characteristics of advanced stages and deep myometrial invasion. TXNDC17 may be a potential predictor or target in UPSC therapeutics..

Sijunzi Decoction Inhibits Stemness by Suppressing β-Catenin Transcriptional Activity in Gastric Cancer Cells

OBJECTIVE

To investigate a previously uncharacterized function of Sijunzi Decoction (SJZD) in inhibition of gastric cancer stem cells (GCSCs).

METHODS

MKN74 and MKN45, two CD44 positive gastric cancer cell lines with stem cell properties were used. The cells were divided into 2 groups. Treatment group was treated with SJZD (1-5 mg/mL) for indicated time (48 h-14 days). The control group was treated with equal volume of phosphate buffered saline. Cell Counting Assay Kit-8 were used to measure cell viability. Spheroid colony formation and GCSCs marker expression were performed to determine GCSCs stemness. Cell fractionation and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays were used to assess the distribution and DNA-binding activity of β-catenin after SJZD treatment, respectively.

RESULTS

SJZD treatment repressed cell growth and induced apoptosis in MKN74 and MKN45 cell lines (P<0.05). Moreover, SJZD dramatically inhibited formation of spheroid colony and expression of GCSC markers in GC cells (P<0.05). Mechanistically, SJZD reduced nuclear accumulation and DNA binding activity of β-catenin (P<0.05), the key regulator for maintaining CSC stemness.

CONCLUSION

SJZD inhibits GCSCs by attenuating the transcriptional activity of β-catenin.

Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of chemical constituents from the flower buds of Buddleja officinalis

Five new glycosides including mimenghuasu A and B (1-2), isolinarin (3), cyclocitralosides A and B (4-5), along with forty-seven known compounds were isolated from the flower buds of Buddleja officinalis. These structures were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analysis (UV, IR, 1 D, 2 D NMR, and MS spectra). The anti-inflammatory activities of the isolated compounds were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) on the expression of TNF-α (LPS-activated RAW264.7 cells) and MTT experiment on LPS-induced HUVECs proliferation effects. Good suppressive effects on the expression of TNF-α were shown by 4 and 5 with IC₅₀ values of 19.35 and 22.10 μM, respectively, compared to positive control indomethacin (IC₅₀ 16.40 μM). In addition to this, some isolated compounds exhibited excellent antioxidant activities including compounds 16, 18, 29, 39, and 47 (IC₅₀ μM: 82.59, 72.94, 33.65, 46.67, and 20.81, respectively) with almost the same or stronger potency with reference to vitamin C as positive control (IC₅₀ 81.83 μM).

Visualizing the intellectual structure and recent research trends of diabetic retinopathy

AIM

To analyze the intellectual structure and recent research trends in diabetic retinopathy (DR) and unearth potential knowledge.

METHODS

English DR publication included in this study was exported from the Web of Science Core Collection, and Chinese DR publication was exported from China National Knowledge Infrastructure from the establishment time of the database to 2019. CiteSpace and Microsoft Excel were used to visually analyze DR research, including analysis of the number of publications, highly cited publication analysis, spatial distribution analysis, and keyword co-occurrence analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 23 795 English studies and 11 577 Chinese studies, including 2089 studies related to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), were obtained. The data suggested the following: 1) The number of English and Chinese DR publications increased over time, and the growth rate of English publications was relatively fast. 2) The distribution of international scholars and institutions was close, while the distribution was scattered in China. Shanghai Jiao Tong University has the largest number of publications. Tien-Yin Wong was the core author with the largest number of publications. England and the United States are the core of international DR research cooperation. 3) Optical coherence tomography and risk factors are recent international research hot spots and trends. The difference is that TCM is a recent research trend under DR in China.

CONCLUSION

DR has drawn an increasing amount of attention worldwide. The focus of research in this field has shifted from tertiary type DR treatment to secondary prevention strategies which focus on the screening and monitoring of disease progression. The advantages of TCM in the prevention of DR have attracted attention, and it is worth incorporating this with Western medicine to address this challenge.

Metabolism response of grazing yak to dietary concentrate supplementation in warm season

Supplementary feeding has a significant effect on the growth performance of grazing yaks. However, as far as is known, little information is available concerning how energy or protein feed supplementation affects the serum metabolome of grazing yaks during the warm season. We investigated the effects of supplementation with two different concentrates on the serum metabolome in grazing yaks using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy in conjunction with multivariate data analysis. Twenty-four 2-year-old female yaks (133.04 ± 6.52 kg BW) were randomly divided into three groups and fed three different regimes (n = 8 per group): (1) grazing plus hull-less barley (HLB) supplementation, (2) grazing plus rapeseed meal (RSM) supplementation, and (3) grazing without supplementation. Both HLB and RSM supplementation significantly increased the average daily gain (ADG), and ADG under HLB supplementation was 11.9% higher (P < 0.05) than that of the RSM group. Supplementation markedly altered glucose, lipid, and protein metabolism, with the difference manifested as increased levels of some amino acids, acetyl-glycoproteins, low-density lipoproteins, and very low-density lipoproteins . Furthermore, the levels of 3-hydroxybutyrate, acetoacetate, and lactate metabolism were decreased. Serum metabolite changes in yaks in the HLB supplementation treatment differed from those in the RSM supplementation treatment; the difference was primarily manifested in lipid- and protein-related metabolites. We conclude that both the energy supplementation (HLB) and the protein supplementation (RSM) could remarkably promote the growth of yak heifers during the warm season, and the effect of energy supplementation was superior. Supplementary feeding changed the serum metabolite levels of yak heifers, indicating that such feeding could improve glucose's energy-supply efficiency and increase the metabolic intensity of lipids and proteins. Supplementation of yaks with HLB was more efficient in the promotion of yak glucose and protein anabolism compared to supplementation with RSM, while having a lesser effect on lipid metabolism.

miR-223 induces retinal ganglion cells apoptosis and inflammation via decreasing HSP-70 in vitro and in vivo

PURPOSE

Glaucoma is an eye disease characterized by the loss of peripheral vision, high pressure in the eye, optic nerve damage, and the loss of peripheral vision due to loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). A number of miRNA have been detected in the pathogenesis of glaucoma. The paper was to focus on the miR-223 in RGCs apoptosis and inflammation, and investigated the possible mechanisms in vitro and in vivo.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

After miR-223 inhibitor and mimics transfected into RGCs, the expression of miR-223 was detected by QRT-PCR, cell proliferation were performed by CCK-8 and EdU assays, cell apoptosis were measured by flow cytometer and TUNEL assays, apoptosis and inflammation -related proteins were detected by western blot, and whether miR-223 target to HSP-70 was detected by Luciferease reporter assay. Moreover, the effects si-HSP-70 on RGCs or RGCs transfected with miR-223 inhibitor were detected. In vivo study. New Zealand White rabbits (20 females) were used to detect the effect of miR-223 on the rabbit glaucoma model induced by injection of carbomer.

RESULTS

CCK-8 and EdU assays demonstrated that miR-223 mimics decreased RGCs proliferation. FITC-Annexin V/PI Apoptosis and TUNEL assays showed that miR-223 mimics induced RGCs apoptosis. Western blot revealed that miR-223 mimics enhanced the expression of relative apoptosis and inflammation factors. Further, we demonstrated that miR-223 could inhibit cell proliferation, induce cell apoptosis as well as inflammation by targeting HSP-70 in RGCs. Moreover, the results were confirmed in rabbit glaucoma model.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, miR-223 plays a vital role in RGCs by regulating HSP-70 expression, and the new therapeutic strategy might potentially contribute to benefit glaucoma treatment.

Astragalus polysaccharides suppresses high glucose-induced metabolic memory in retinal pigment epithelial cells through inhibiting mitochondrial dysfunction-induced apoptosis by regulating miR-195

BACKGROUND

Metabolic memory contributes to the development of diabetic retinopathy (DR), which is the complication of diabetes. But it's still unknown how to prevent the metabolic memory to treat the DR. In our study, we want to examine the function of Astragalus polysaccharides (APS) in the metabolic memory of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) pretreated with high glucose (HG).

METHODS

ARPE-19 and PRPE cells were exposed to HG followed by normal glucose (NG) treatment with or without APS. QPCR was used to examine the levels of miR-195 and Bcl-2. MDA and SOD detection assays were used to examine the oxidative stress level. Western blotting and immunostaining were applied to detect the protein level of mitochondrial damage and apoptotic signaling pathway. Flow cytometry and TUNEL staining were used to analyze cell apoptosis. Luciferase assay was used to examine the direct target of miR-195.

RESULTS

APS treatment significantly decreased the expression of miR-195, while increased the expression of Bcl-2 with optimized dosages which were induced by HG treatment, even after replacing the HG with NG. And we found Bcl-2 was the direct target of miR-195. APS alleviated the oxidative stress, mitochondrial damage and cell apoptosis induced by HG and HG + NG treatments in RPE cells via regulating miR-195. Furthermore, we found overexpression of miR-195 abolished the alleviated effects of APS on the HG-treated RPE cells.

CONCLUSIONS

APS suppressed high glucose-induced metabolic memory in retinal pigment epithelial cells through inhibiting mitochondrial dysfunction-induced apoptosis by regulating miR-195.

[Chemical constituents from hypoglycemic active part of Plantaginis Semen]

The chemical constituents of Plantaginis Semen with hypoglycemic effect was investigated in this paper. The previous results of the in vivo hypoglycemic effect showed that 60% ethanol extract of Plantaginis Semen decreased the levels of FBG and improved the glucose tolerance in high fat diet(HFD)-induced diabetic C57BL/6 mice. Then, in the present study, the above potential bioactive extract was separated and purified by silica gel, ODS, Sephadex LH-20 column chromatography, medium pressure liquid chromatography(MPLC)and preparative HPLC. The structures of isolated compounds were identified by physicochemical properties and spectral analyses. Eight compounds were obtained and identified as 4, 4a, 5, 7a-tetrahydro-7-(hydroxymethyl)cyclopenta[c]pyran-3(1H)-one(1), iridolactone(2), pedicularislacton(3), rehmaglutin C(4), geniposidic acid(5), p-hydroxylphenylglycerol(6), 1, 2-benzenediol-4-(2-hydroxyethyl)(7), and 3-buten-2-one-4-[3-(β-D-glucopyranosyloxy)-4-hydroxyphenyl](8). Among them, compounds 1-5 were iridoids, and 6-8 were phenolic acids. Compound 1 was a new natural product, and compounds 2-4, 6 and 8 were isolated from the Plantaginaceae family for the first time.

LncRNA-MEG3 alleviates high glucose induced inflammation and apoptosis of retina epithelial cells via regulating miR-34a/SIRT1 axis

BACKGROUND

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the serious complication of diabetes, which could lead to blindness. Inflammation and apoptosis are hallmark of DR, but mechanism of their regulation is little known. LncRNA-MEG3 is associated with multiple biological processes including proliferation, apoptosis and inflammation response, and is dramatically decreased in DR. However, the role and underlying mechanism of MEG3 in DR is unclear. This study is aimed to reveal the signaling mechanisms of MEG3 in inflammation and apoptosis of DR.

METHODS

ARPE-19 cells were applied for this research. MEG3 was cloned into pcDNA3.1. miR-34a was overexpressed and inhibited by transfecting with mimics and inhibitor, respectively. The expression level was detected by qRT-PCR and western blotting. The targeted regulatory relationship was analyzed by dual luciferase assay. Cytokine secretion, cell viability and apoptosis were detected by ELISA assay, MTT assay and flow cytometry analysis, respectively.

RESULTS

High glucose (HG) inhibited MEG3 and SIRT1 expression and enhanced miR-34a expression. MEG3 could promote SIRT1 expression by targeting miR-34a. MEG3 overexpression and miR-34a knockdown could inhibit HG-induced apoptosis and secretion of inflammation cytokines including IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α, but miR-34a overexpression alleviated such effects of MEG3. Furthermore, MEG3 overexpression also inhibited NF-κB signaling pathway and increased Bcl-2/Bax ratio via down-regulating miR-34a.

CONCLUSION

MEG3 could alleviate HG-inducing apoptosis and inflammation via inhibiting NF-κB signaling pathway by targeting miR-34a/SIRT1 axis. This finding illustrated the function and mechanism of MEG3 in DR, and MEG3 might serve as potential therapeutic target for DR.

Acidic Preconditioning Protects Against Ischemia-Reperfusion Lung Injury Via Inhibiting the Expression of Matrix Metalloproteinase 9

BACKGROUND

Acidic preconditioning (APC) has been demonstrated to protect against ischemia-reperfusion (IR)-induced lung injury, which could occur during lung transplantation or cardiopulmonary bypass. However, the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying IR lung injury and APC protection are not completely understood. The key factors responsible for the protective effects of APC are not clear. In this study, bioinformatics was used to predict the potential key factor in IR lung injury and explore the important mediator of the APC protective effect in IR lung injury.

METHODS

First, we screened GSE6730, which is related to both lung injury and IR in Gene Expression Omnibus, and STRING was used later to select the genes in GSE6730 needed in the future. Animal models were established and classified to validate the effect of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) on lung injury after IR by adding a selective inhibitor (4-phenoxyphenylsulfonyl) methylthiirane, MMP-9 inhibitor. Next, for better understanding of APC inhibition of the expression of MMP-9 in lung injury, assessment of lung tissues, Western blot analysis, and RNA extraction and reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction were conducted.

RESULTS

MMP-9 was identified to be overexpressed after IR according to the analysis on GSE67370. MMP-9 was an unknown gene in relation to acute lung injury and found to be associated with interleukin (IL)-1B, IL-6, and IL-8. The expressions of these inflammatory factors, including MMP-9, were all elevated in IR. Furthermore, lung injury was ameliorated, and the level of MMP-9 was lower when an MMP-9 inhibitor, (4-phenoxyphenylsulfonyl) methylthiirane, was added. Compared with group IR, APC reversed the ischemia-induced lung injury, and the level of MMP-9 was lower, and the concentrations of IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8 were decreased.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings reveal a novel mechanism indicating that IR induces higher expression of MMP-9 in lung injury by increasing the expression of inflammation-related factors. APC might protect against IR lung injury by inhibiting the expression of MMP-9.

Effect of Qingguang'an II on expressions of OX42 protein and IL-1β mRNA of retinal microglia cells of rats with chronic high intraocular pressure

The study investigated the effects of Qingguang'an II (a Chinese medicinal preparation) on expressions of OX42 protein and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) mRNA of retinal microglia cells of rats with chronic high intraocular pressure (IOP). SD rats were randomly divided into 6 groups, that were: A: blank group; B: model group; C: Qingguang'an II low dose group; D: Qingguang'an II medium dose group; E: Qingguang'an II high dose group; F: Yimaikang disket (a Chinese medicinal preparation) group. Experimental rats in B, C, D, E, F groups were established the model of chronic high IOP by cauterizing of superficial scleral vein. Tissues of eyes were obtained after intragastric administration for 2 and 4wk. At the time-point of 2wk, OX42 protein and IL-1β mRNA in group B were statistically expressed in higher level comparing with other groups (P<0.05). Moreover, at the time-point of 4wk, OX42 protein and IL-1β mRNA in groups C, D and E were statistically expressed in lower level comparing with group F (P<0.05). Besides, OX42 protein and IL-1β mRNA in groups C and D were statistically expressed in higher level comparing with group E (P<0.05). OX42 protein and IL-1β mRNA in groups C and D were expressed in similar level (P>0.05). The study indicated that, in the protection of optic nerve of rats with chronic high IOP, the high dose of Qingguang'an II at the time-point of 4wk was the better choice.

A New Insight into the Role of CART in Cocaine Reward: Involvement of CaMKII and Inhibitory G-Protein Coupled Receptor Signaling

Cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART) peptides are neuropeptides that are expressed in brain regions associated with reward, such as the nucleus accumbens (NAc), and play a role in cocaine reward. Injection of CART into the NAc can inhibit the behavioral effects of cocaine, and injecting CART into the ventral tegmental area (VTA) reduces cocaine-seeking behavior. However, the exact mechanism of these effects is not clear. Recent research has demonstrated that Ca²⁺/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) and inhibitory G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling are involved in the mechanism of the effect of CART on cocaine reward. Hence, we review the role of CaMKII and inhibitory GPCR signaling in the effect of CART on cocaine reward and provide a new insight into the mechanism of that effect. In this article, we will first review the biological function of CART and discuss the role of CART in cocaine reward. Then, we will focus on the role of CaMKII and inhibitory GPCR signaling in cocaine reward. Furthermore, we will discuss how CaMKII and inhibitory GPCR signaling are involved in the mechanistic action of CART in cocaine reward. Finally, we will provide our opinions regarding the future directions of research on the role of CaMKII and inhibitory GPCR signaling in the effect of CART on cocaine reward.

Effect of different levels of protein concentrates supplementation on the growth performance, plasma amino acids profile and mTOR cascade genes expression in early-weaned yak calves

Objective

This study evaluated the effects of different levels of protein concentrate supplementation on the growth performance of yak calves, and correlated the growth rate to changes occurring in the plasma- amino acids, -insulin profile, and signaling activity of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) cascade to characterize the mechanism through which the protein synthesis can be improved in early weaned yaks.

Methods

For this study, 48 early (3 months old) weaned yak calves were selected, and assigned into four dietary treatments according to randomized complete block design. The four blocks were balanced for body weight and sex. The yaks were either grazed on natural pasture (control diet) in a single herd or the grazing yaks was supplemented with one of the three protein rich supplements containing low (17%; LP), medium (19%; MP), or high (21%; HP) levels of crude proteins for a period of 30 days.

Results

Results showed that the average daily gain of calves increased (0.14 vs 0.23–0.26 kg; p<0.05) with protein concentrates supplementation. The concentration of plasma methionine increased (p<0.05; 8.6 vs 10.1–12.4 μmol/L), while those of serine and tyrosine did not change (p>0.05) when the grazing calves were supplemented with protein concentrates. Compared to control diet, the insulin level of calves increased (p<0.05; 1.86 vs 2.16–2.54 μIU/mL) with supplementation of protein concentrates. Addition of protein concentrates up-regulated (p<0.05) expression of mTOR-raptor, mammalian vacuolar protein sorting 34 homolog, the translational regulators eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E binding protein 1, and S6 kinase 1 genes in both Longissimus dorsi and semitendinosus. In contrast, the expression of sequestosome 1 was down-regulated in the concentrate supplemented calves.

Conclusion

Our results show that protein supplementation improves the growth performance of early weaned yak calves, and that plasma methionine and insulin concentrations were the key mediator for gene expression and protein deposition in the muscles.

Identification of potential diagnostic biomarkers of acute pancreatitis by serum metabolomic profiles

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is defined as an acute inflammation of pancreas that may cause damage to other tissues and organs depending upon the severity of symptoms. The diagnosis of AP is usually made by detection of raised circulating pancreatic enzyme levels, but there are occasional false positive and false negative diagnoses and such tests are often normal in delayed presentations. More accurate biomarkers would help in such situations. In this study, the global metabolites' changes of AP patients (APP) were profiled by using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Multivariate pattern recognition techniques were used to establish the classification models to distinguish APP from healthy participants (HP). Some significant metabolites including 3-hydroxybutyric acid, phosphoric acid, glycerol, citric acid, d-galactose, d-mannose, d-glucose, hexadecanoic acid and serotonin were selected as potential biomarkers for helping clinical diagnosis of AP. Furthermore, the metabolite changes in APP with severe and mild symptoms were also analyzed. Based on the selected biomarkers, some relevant pathways were also identified. Our results suggested that GC-MS based serum metabolomics method can be used in the clinical diagnosis of AP by profiling potential biomarkers.

Research progress of stem cells on glaucomatous optic nerve injury

Glaucoma, the second leading cause of blindness, is an irreversible optic neuropathy. The mechanism of optic nerve injury caused by glaucoma is undefined at present. There is no effective treatment method for the injury. Stem cells have the capacity of self-renewal and differentiation. These two features have made them become the research focus on improving the injury at present. This paper reviews the application progress on different types of stem cells therapy for optic nerve injury caused by glaucoma.

Volume of intracranial structures on three-dimensional ultrasound in fetuses with congenital heart disease

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the volume of intracranial structures in fetuses with congenital heart disease (CHD).

METHODS

Total intracranial volume, frontal lobes volume, thalamus volume and cerebellar volume were prospectively evaluated and compared in 73 fetuses with CHD and 168 normal fetuses using three-dimensional ultrasound combined with post-processing software at 20 + 0 to 36 + 6 weeks of gestation. Multiple regression analyses were performed to identify risk factors for reduced volume of intracranial structures.

RESULTS

From the 28th week of gestation onwards, total brain volumes and those of specific structures became progressively smaller in fetuses with CHD relative to those in controls (P < 0.05). The decrease was largest in frontal lobes volume, followed by total intracranial volume and cerebellar volume, and the smallest decrease was in thalamus volume (P < 0.05). Multivariable analysis showed that the diagnostic category (P < 0.001) was independently associated with smaller brain volumes in fetuses with CHD. The largest differences from controls occurred in hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS), followed by aortic hypoplasia, transposition of the great arteries (TGA) and tetralogy of Fallot (TOF).

CONCLUSIONS

The volume of intracranial structures is smaller in fetuses with CHD, particularly in those with HLHS, aortic hypoplasia or TGA. This study highlights the need for routine brain screening and early intervention to improve neurodevelopmental outcomes in fetuses with CHD.

Supplementation dietary zinc levels on growth performance, carcass traits, and intramuscular fat deposition in weaned piglets

This study was conducted to estimate dietary zinc (Zn) levels on growth performance, carcass traits, and intramuscular fat (IMF) deposition in weaned piglets. Sixty piglets were randomly divided into five groups, as follows: control (basal diet), Zn250, Zn380, Zn570, and Zn760 with supplementation of 250, 380, 570, and 760 mg Zn/kg of the basal diet, respectively. The final weight, average daily gain (ADG), gain/feed (G/F), lean meat percentage, fat meat percentage, lean eye area, backfat thickness, and IMF content were dose-dependently increased in all groups of Zn treatment. The serum total triglycerides (TG) and free fatty acid (FFA) were significantly higher in all Zn treatments than in the control. The enzyme activities of lipoprotein lipase (LPL), fatty acid synthase (FAS), and acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) were markedly higher, while enzyme activities of hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL) and carnitine palmitoyltransferase-1 (CPT-1) were significantly lower in all Zn treatments than in the control. The messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1 (SREBP-1), stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD), FAS, ACC, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ), LPL, and adipocyte fatty acid-binding protein (A-FABP) were significantly higher, while the mRNA levels of CPT-1 and HSL were significantly lower in all Zn treatments compared with the control. These results indicated that high levels of Zn increased IMF accumulation by up-regulating intramuscular lipogenic and fatty acid transport gene expression and enzyme activities while down-regulating lipolytic gene expression and enzyme activities.

Effect of Qingguangan on the expressions of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in filtering bleb after trabeculectomy in rabbits

AIM

To explore the effect of Qingguangan on the expressions of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in filtering bleb scarring area after trabeculectomy in rabbit model.

METHODS

Thirty-two New Zealand rabbits were randomized into four groups: control group, experimental group, MMC group (ocular trabeculectomy in combination with MMC), and Qingguangan group. Trabeculectomy was performed on both eyes in each group except control group. Qingguangan group was mouth-fed with Qingguangan (solution). On postoperative day 14, the appearances of MMP-2 and MMP-9 on filtrating blebs were observed by immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

Statistical differences of the expressions of MMP-2 and MMP-9 were noted among groups on day 14 following surgery. Histology immunohistochemistry showed significant differences on the expressions of MMP-2 and MMP-9 between each group (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Qingguangan can promote the expressions of MMP-2 and MMP-9.

[Effects of extract of Buddleja officinalis eye drops on androgen receptors of lacrimal gland cells of castrated rats with dry eye]

OBJECTIVE

To observe the effects of the extract of Buddleja officinalis eye drops (EBOED) on basic tears secretory volume, tear film stability, and expressions of androgen receptors (AR) in castrated rats with dry eye, and to investigate the mechanism of EBOED on dry eye caused by decreased anti-androgen levels.

METHODS

Forty-five male Wistar rats were randomly divided into the blank group, the model group, and the treatment group (treated by EBOED), respectively. Rats in each group were further divided into three sub-groups (fed for one month, two months, and three months, respectively). There were totally nine groups, with five in each. The dry eye model was established with orchiectomy of rats in the model group and the treatment group. EBOED was given to rats in the treatment group for one successive month. Schirmer I test (SIT) and breakup time of tear film (BUT) were determined in all experimental rats. Expressions of AR was analyzed by flow cytometer.

RESULTS

Ths SIT value, BUT, and AR positive rate in the model group at the 1st, 2nd, 3rd month were lower than those in the blank group of the same time points (P < 0.01). There was statistical difference in SIT value, BUT, and AR positive rate between the model group and the treatment group at the three time points (P < 0.01). Take the three-month subgroup as an example, the SIT value in the treatment group was (12.667 +/- 5.221) mm, obviously higher than that in the model group (2.676 +/- 1.987) mm. The BUT in the treatment group was (11.758 +/- 4.415) s, obviously longer than that of the model group (4.667 +/- 2.108) s. The AR positive rate in the treatment group was 49.33% +/- 3.44%, obviously higher than that of the model group (33.32% +/- 7.12%, all P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The main components of EBOED was the flavonoids which could significantly inhibit the occurrence of dry eye in rats with decreased androgen levels. Its mechanism might possibly be similar to androgen.

Effects of extract of Buddleja officinalis eye drops on androgen receptors of lacrimal gland cells of castrated rats with dry eye

AIM

To evaluate the effects of the extract of Buddleja officinalis eye drops in basic tears secretory volume, tear film stability, expression of androgen receptors (AR) in castrated rats with dry eye, and to investigate the therapeutic effects of the extract of Buddleja officinalis on dry eye caused by gonadal hormones level imbalance.

METHODS

Forty-five Wistar masculinity rats were divided at random into nine groups, including normal groups (A1, A2 and A3); model groups (B1, B2 and B3); therapy groups with extract of Buddleja officinalis eye drops (C1, C2 and C3). The "1" stood for being fed for 1 month, and "2" for 2 months, and "3" for 3 months. The dry eye model was established with orchiectomy on groups B and C. Group C was treated with Buddleja officinalis extract eye drops for one month. All rats were checked with Schirmer I test (SIT) and tear film break-up time (BUT). Expression of AR was analyzed by flow cytometer (FCM).

RESULTS

The SIT value of group C was significantly higher than that of group B (P<0.01) and the BUT value of group C was significantly longer than that of group B (P<0.01), which indicated the eye drop could significantly keep basic tears secretory volume and tear film stability. And the expression of AR of group C was much higher than that of group B, which showed that available composition of the eye drops maybe display androgen-like activity.

CONCLUSION

The main components of the extract of Buddleja officinalis is the flavonoids that can significantly inhibit happening of dry eye of rat after androgen level lowered. Its mechanism is like androgen's and it can display androgen-like activity to keep basic tears secretory volume and tear film stability.

Effect of Buddleia flavonoids drug-containing plasma on the expression of STAT1 phosphoprotein in lacrimal gland epithelial cells in vitro

AIM

To explore the effect of Buddleia flavonoids drug-containing plasma and androgen receptor (AR) blocker on the expression of STAT1 phosphoprotein.

METHODS

In vitro lacrimal gland epithelial cells were cultivated with H(2)O(2) to establish the dry eye apoptosis state. Blank plasma group, Buddleia officinalis plasma total flavonoids interfere with drug-containing group, and the intervention group of testosterone propionate were set. The expressions of STAT1 phosphoprotein of each group were observed by Western blot. AR blocker flutamide was used to explore the intended androgen effect of Buddleia flavonoids.

RESULTS

After the intervention of drug-containing plasma, the expression of STAT1 phosphoprotein in Buddleja officinalis drug-containing plasma intervention group (0.353±0.494) and testosterone propionate intervention group (0.502±0.036) were enhanced and the differences between the two groups were significant (P<0.01). After using AR blocker, the expression of STAT1 phosphoprotein in each group (0.268±0.061, 0.283±0.106, 0.213±0.071) had no difference.

CONCLUSION

Buddleja officinalis drug-containing plasma total flavonoids can promote the expression of STAT1 phosphorylation.

Effects of extract of Buddleja officinalis on partial inflammation of lacrimal gland in castrated rabbits with dry eye

AIM

To assess the effects of extract of Buddleja officinalis on tear secretion volume, tear film stability, expressions of TGF-β1, IL-1β, TNF-α in lacrimal gland of castrated rabbits with dry eye.

METHODS

A total of 30 victory rabbits were divided averagely into normal group(A), model group(B), therapy group with low dose extract of Buddleja officinalis (C), therapy group with high dose extract of Buddleja officinalis (D) and therapy group with genistein (E). The dry eye model was established with orchiectomy on Group B, C, D, E. Group C, D, E were administered intragastrically with corresponding dose extract of Buddleja officinalis or genistein for 30 days. All rabbits were detected with SIT. TGF-β1, IL-1β, TNF-α were detected with immunohistochemistry and the ultrastructure of lacrimal gland was observed under transmission electron microscope.

RESULTS

The SIT value of group C, D, E were respectively 13.167±4.957, 14.667±5.279, 8.667±0.516, obviously higher than that of group B 5.667±2.338 (P<0.01). The positive expression of IL-1β in acinar cell and glandular tube cell of group C, D were 0.470±0.048, 0.510±0.088, obviously lower than that of group B 0.770±0.118 (P<0.01). The positive expression of TNF-α of group C, D were 0.498±0.156, 0.435±0.069, obviously lower than that of group B 0.769±0.095 too (P<0.01). The positive expression of TGF-β1 of group C, D were 0.406±0.171, 0.497±0.147, obviously higher than that of group B 0.222±0.113(P<0.01). Any result of group C, D was positive compared with that of group E (P <0.05). Ultrastructure of the lacrimal gland of group C, D, E was well preserved, especially in D group it was remarkable.

CONCLUSION

The extract of Buddleja officinalis can adjust lacrimal gland partial inflammation of dry eye.

[Effects of extract of Buddleja officinalis on prevention of dry eye in castrated rabbits]

OBJECTIVE

To assess the preventive effects of extract of Buddleja officinalis on dry eye in castrated rabbits and to discuss the mechanism of these effects.

METHODS

It was a experimental study. Thirty male rabbits were divided equally into normal group (A), disease group (B) and treatment group (C, D, and E). The dry eye model was established with orchiectomy (ORX) in Group B, C, D and E. Group C, D and E were gastrically perfused with single-dose or double-does of Buddleja officinalis extract or genistein for 30 days. All rabbits were examined with Schirmer I test (SIT). TGF-beta1, IL-1beta, TNF-alpha, Fas, FasL, Bax and bcl-2 were detected by immunohistochemistry. Morphological and ultrastructure changes were observed by electron microscopy.

RESULTS

The SIT value of group C, D, E was significantly greater than that of group B (P < 0.01). The expression of IL-1beta, TNF-alpha, Fas, FasL and Bax in acinar cells and glandular tube cells of group C, D, E were significantly lower than those of group B (P < 0.01) and the expression of TGF-beta1 and bcl-2 in acinar cells and glandular tube cells of group C, D, E were significantly higher than those of group B (P < 0.01). Furthermore, ultrastructure of lacrimal gland in group C, D, E was much healthier than that of group B. The results obtained from all of these studies showed that the lacrimal glands status in group C, D was significantly better than that of group E (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Extract of Buddleja officinalis has a significant effect on the prevention of experimental dry eye in castrated male rabbits. The main components of extract of Buddleja officinalis are the flavonoids. The flavonoids display androgen-like activity. Therefore, it can adjust gonadal hormone level in vivo. As a result, it can inhibit local inflammation in lacrimal gland and reduce apoptosis of lacrimal gland cells.

Prenatal echocardiographic differential diagnosis of fetal cardiac tumors

OBJECTIVES

To present data on echocardiographic findings of fetal cardiac tumors and discuss their differential diagnoses.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 14 cases of fetal echogenic cardiac mass diagnosed between 1990 and 2003; 12 were confirmed to be cardiac tumors and two were false-positive diagnoses. The echocardiographic characteristics examined included number, size, location and associated complications.

RESULTS

Eight fetuses had a single tumor and four fetuses had multiple tumors. The left ventricle was most often affected. Parents of eight fetuses opted for termination of pregnancy, one fetus died in utero and three affected fetuses survived. Histopathological examination revealed cardiac rhabdomyoma in six fetuses, fibroma in two, teratoma in two, lipoma in one and hemangioma in one. The pitfalls associated with prenatal echocardiographic diagnosis of cardiac tumors include: they may be too small to be visualized, intracardiac echogenic foci may mimic tumors, and echogenicity resulting from extracardiac structures or neoplasms near the heart may falsely appear as tumors.

CONCLUSION

Fetal cardiac tumors can be detected by echocardiography. However, differential diagnosis is important as this will affect prognosis and subsequent management.