[The influence of knocking down the expression of low-density lipoprotein receptor associated proteins on the vascular abnormalities in hepatocellular carcinoma and its mechanisms]

Objectives: To investigate the effect of the expression of low-density lipoprotein receptor associated protein (LDLR) on the vascular abnormalities in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and its mechanisms. Methods: Based on the information of Oncomine Cancer GeneChip database, we analyzed the correlation between the expression level of LDLR and the expression level of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and CD31 in hepatocellular carcinoma tissues. Lentiviral transfection of short hairpin RNA target genes was used to construct LDLR-knockdown MHCC-97H and HLE hepatocellular carcinoma cells. The differential genes and their expression level changes in LDLR-knockdown hepatocellular carcinoma cells were detected by transcriptome sequencing, real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and protein immunoblotting. The gene-related signaling pathways that involve LDLR were clarified by enrichment analysis. The effect of LDLR on CEA was assessed by the detection of CEA content in conditioned medium of hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Angiogenesis assay was used to detect the effect of LDLR on the angiogenic capacity of human umbilical vein endothelial cells, as well as the role of CEA in the regulation of angiogenesis by LDLR. Immunohistochemical staining was used to detect the expression levels of LDLR in 176 hepatocellular carcinoma tissues, and CEA and CD31 in 146 hepatocellular carcinoma tissues, and analyze the correlations between the expression levels of LDLR, CEA, and CD31 in the tissues, serum CEA, and alanine transaminase (ALT). Results: Oncomine database analysis showed that the expressions of LDLR and CEA in the tissues of hepatocellular carcinoma patients with portal vein metastasis were negatively correlated (r=-0.64, P=0.001), whereas the expressions of CEA and CD31 in these tissues were positively correlated ( r=0.46, P=0.010). The transcriptome sequencing results showed that there were a total of 1 032 differentially expressed genes in the LDLR-knockdown group and the control group of MHCC-97H cells, of which 517 genes were up-regulated and 515 genes were down-regulated. The transcript expression level of CEACAM5 was significantly up-regulated in the cells of the LDLR-knockdown group. The Gene Ontology (GO) function enrichment analysis showed that the differential genes were most obviously enriched in the angiogenesis function. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) signaling pathway enrichment analysis showed that the relevant pathways involved mainly included the cellular adhesion patch, the extracellular matrix receptor interactions, and the interactions with the extracellular matrix receptors. The CEA content in the conditioned medium of the LDLR-knockdown group was 43.75±8.43, which was higher than that of the control group (1.15±0.14, P＜0.001). The results of angiogenesis experiments showed that at 5 h, the number of main junctions, the number of main segments, and the total area of the lattice formed by HUVEC cells cultured with the conditioned medium of MHCC-97H cells in the LDLR-knockdown group were 295.3±26.4, 552.5±63.8, and 2 239 781.0±13 8211.9 square pixels, which were higher than those of the control group (113.3±23.5, 194.8±36.5, and 660 621.0±280 328.3 square pixels, respectively, all P＜0.01).The number of vascular major junctions, the number of major segments, and the total area of the lattice formed by HUVEC cells cultured in conditioned medium with HLE cells in the LDLR-knockdown group were 245.3±42.4, 257.5±20.4, and 2 535 754.5±249 094.2 square pixels, respectively, which were all higher than those of the control group (113.3±23.5, 114.3±12.2, and 1 565 456.5±219 259.7 square pixels, respectively, all P＜0.01). In the conditioned medium for the control group of MHCC-97H cells,the number of main junctions, the number of main segments, and the total area of the lattice formed by the addition of CEA to cultured HUVEC cells were 178.9±12.0, 286.9±12.3, and 1 966 990.0±126 249.5 spixels, which were higher than those in the control group (119.7±22.1, 202.7±33.7, and 1 421 191.0±189 837.8 square pixels, respectively). The expression of LDLR in hepatocellular carcinoma tissues was not correlated with the expression of CEA, but was negatively correlated with the expression of CD31 (r=-0.167, P=0.044), the level of serum CEA (r=-0.061, P=0.032), and the level of serum ALT(r=-0.147,P=0.05). The expression of CEA in hepatocellular carcinoma tissues was positively correlated with the expression of CD31 (r=0.192, P=0.020). The level of serum CEA was positively correlated with the level of serum ALT (r=0.164, P=0.029). Conclusion: Knocking down LDLR can promote vascular abnormalities in HCC by releasing CEA.

Generation of chimeric antigen receptor macrophages from human pluripotent stem cells to target glioblastoma

Background

Glioblastoma (GBM) is an aggressive brain tumor giving a poor prognosis with the current treatment options. The advent of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy revolutionized the field of immunotherapy and has provided a new set of therapeutic options for refractory blood cancers. In an effort to apply this therapeutic approach to solid tumors, various immune cell types and CAR constructs are being studied. Notably, macrophages have recently emerged as potential candidates for targeting solid tumors, attributed to their inherent tumor-infiltrating capacity and abundant presence in the tumor microenvironment.

Materials and methods

In this study, we developed a chemically defined differentiation protocol to generate macrophages from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs). A GBM-specific CAR was genetically incorporated into hPSCs to generate CAR hPSC-derived macrophages.

Results

The CAR hPSC-derived macrophages exhibited potent anticancer activity against GBM cells in vitro.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate the feasibility of generating functional CAR-macrophages from hPSCs for adoptive immunotherapy, thereby opening new avenues for the treatment of solid tumors, particularly GBM.

TFP5, a Peptide Derived from Cdk5 Activator p35, Protects Pancreatic β Cells from Glucose Toxicity

We studied the effect of TFP5 on MIN6 cells (cultured mouse islet β cells) treated with different concentrations of glucose (5 or 25 mM). The results were verified in C57BL/6J mice (control; n=12) and db/db mice with type 2 diabetes mellitus (n=12). To synthesize TFP5, peptide p5 (a derivative of p35 protein, activator of cyclin-dependent kinase 5, Cdk5) was conjugated with a FITC tag at the N-terminus and an 11-amino acid TAT protein transduction domain at the C-terminus. TFP5 was employed to inhibit Cdk5 activity and then to evaluate its efficiency in treating experimental type 2 diabetes mellitus. TFP5 effectively inhibited the pathological hyperactivity of Cdk5, enhanced insulin secretion, and protected pancreatic β cells from apoptosis in vitro and in vivo. In addition, TFP5 inhibited inflammation in pancreatic islets by reducing the expression of inflammatory cytokines TGF-β1, TNFα, and IL-1β. These novel data indicates that TFP5 is a promising candidate for treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

The Amorphous Solid Dispersion of Chrysin in Plasdone® S630 Demonstrates Improved Oral Bioavailability and Antihyperlipidemic Performance in Rats

Chrysin is a flavonoid with various biological activities. However, its low water solubility and strong metabolism render its oral bioavailability rather poor. This study aimed to develop a stable solid dispersion formulation of chrysin to improve the dissolution of chrysin, so as to increase its oral bioavailability and improve its antihyperlipidemic activities. A solid dispersion of chrysin was prepared using a solvent evaporation method, with Plasdone® S630 as the hydrophilic carrier. The formulations were characterized via X-ray diffraction, in vitro dissolution studies, and stability studies. An in-situ perfusion model was used to evaluate the absorption rates. Plasma pharmacokinetics and antihyperlipidemic performance after the oral administration of the chrysin formulations were investigated in rats. It was found that the solid dispersion of chrysin prepared using the drug-polymer mass ratio of 1:6 can form the optimized formulation. X-ray diffraction results showed that the chrysin was in an amorphous state in this optimized formulation. The cumulative release percentage of the optimized solid dispersion of chrysin at pH 1.2 and pH 6.8 was elevated to above 90% within 24 h, indicating that the formulation could enhance the dissolution rates of chrysin. Stability studies showed that the optimized formulation presented acceptable long-term storage stability, but it was susceptible to high temperature and humidity. The solid dispersion of chrysin showed higher absorption rates in the in-situ perfusion model. Pharmacokinetic studies revealed that Cmax and AUC after the intragastric administration of solid dispersion of chrysin were appreciably higher than those resulting from chrysin suspension. The oral bioavailability of the solid dispersion of chrysin was 41 times higher than that of chrysin suspension. Pharmacological studies suggested that the solid dispersion of chrysin was more powerful than chrysin raw material in improving biochemical indicators in the hyperlipidemic model in rats. This study reveals the potential use of a novel oral formulation of chrysin to reduce the currently required high dose.

Improvement of a Rapid Method of Detecting Gasoline Detergency Based on the Image Recognition

The detergency of motor gasoline is closely related to vehicle exhaust emissions and fuel economy. This paper proposed an improved method for the rapid detection of gasoline detergency based on the deposit images of test gasoline on aluminum plates produced by a multichannel gasoline detergency simulation test (MGST). The detection algorithm system was structured to recognize the deposit plate images by computer vision based on the convolutional neural networks (CNNs). Compared with the traditional simulation test, the improved MGST method resulted in significant reductions in fuel consumption, cost, and test time. The performance of three transfer learning models (Inception-ResNet-V2, Inception-V3, and ResNet50-V2) and a customized CNN was evaluated in the detection algorithm system, and their detection accuracies reached 94, 94, 88, and 82%. Inception-RsNet-V2 was selected due to its higher accuracy and better robustness. Based on the model interpretation, it is evident that the model undergoes feature extraction from the sediment deposits on the deposit plate. Subsequently, it employed the acquired deposit features to accurately detect gasoline samples that failed to meet detergency standards. This approach was proved to be effective in enhancing the detection process and ensuring reliable results for gasoline detergency evaluation. It is beneficial to environmental protection regulators for managing market gasoline detergency and urban mobile source pollution. In addition, a deposit plate image database should be established to further improve the detection model performance during the environmental regulation.

A Nomogram for Predicting Progression-free Survival in Patients with Endometrial Cancer

AIMS

Endometrial cancer is one of the most widely known gynaecological malignancies that lacks a prognostic prediction model. This study aimed to develop a nomogram to predict progression-free survival (PFS) in patients with endometrial cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Information for endometrial cancer patients diagnosed and treated from 1 January 2005 to 30 June 2018 was collected. The Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and multivariate Cox regression analysis were carried out to determine the independent risk factors and a nomogram was constructed by R based on analytical factors. Internal and external validation were then carried out to predict the probability of 3- and 5-year PFS.

RESULTS

In total, 1020 patients with endometrial cancer were included in the study and the relationship between 25 factors and prognosis was analysed. Postmenopause (hazard ratio = 2.476, 95% confidence interval 1.023-5.994), lymph node metastasis (hazard ratio = 6.242, 95% confidence interval 2.815-13.843), lymphovascular space invasion (hazard ratio = 4.263, 95% confidence interval 1.802-10.087), histological type (hazard ratio = 2.713, 95% confidence interval 1.374-5.356), histological differentiation (hazard ratio = 2.601, 95% confidence interval 1.141-5.927) and parametrial involvement (hazard ratio = 3.596, 95% confidence interval 1.622-7.973) were found to be independent prognostic risk factors; these factors were selected to establish a nomogram. The consistency index for 3-year PFS were 0.88 (95% confidence interval 0.81-0.95) in the training cohort and 0.93 (95% confidence interval 0.87-0.99) in the verification set. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve for the 3- and 5-year PFS predictions are 0.891 and 0.842 in the training set; the same conclusion also appeared in the verification set [0.835 (3-year), 0.803(5-year)].

CONCLUSIONS

This study established a prognostic nomogram for endometrial cancer that provides a more individualised and accurate estimation of PFS for patients, which will help physicians make follow-up strategies and risk stratification.

Cellular senescence in liver diseases: From mechanisms to therapies

Cellular senescence is an irreversible state of cell cycle arrest, characterized by a gradual decline in cell proliferation, differentiation, and biological functions. Cellular senescence is double-edged for that it can provoke organ repair and regeneration in physiological conditions but contribute to organ and tissue dysfunction and prime multiple chronic diseases in pathological conditions. The liver has a strong regenerative capacity, where cellular senescence and regeneration are closely involved. Herein, this review firstly introduces the morphological manifestations of senescent cells, the major regulators (p53, p21, and p16), and the core pathophysiologic mechanisms underlying senescence process, and then specifically generalizes the role and interventions of cellular senescence in multiple liver diseases, including alcoholic liver disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, liver fibrosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. In conclusion, this review focuses on interpreting the importance of cellular senescence in liver diseases and summarizes potential senescence-related regulatory targets, aiming to provide new insights for further researches on cellular senescence regulation and therapeutic developments for liver diseases.

Induction of Sestrin2 by pterostilbene suppresses ethanol-triggered hepatocyte senescence by degrading CCN1 via p62-dependent selective autophagy

Hepatocyte senescence is a key event participating in the progression of alcoholic liver disease. Autophagy is a critical biological process that controls cell fates by affecting cell behaviors like senescence. Pterostilbene is a natural compound with hepatoprotective potential; however, its implication for alcoholic liver disease was not understood. This study was aimed to investigate the therapeutic effect of pterostilbene on alcoholic liver disease and elucidate the potential mechanism. Our results showed that pterostilbene alleviated ethanol-triggered hepatocyte damage and senescence. Intriguingly, pterostilbene decreased the protein abundance of cellular communication network factor 1 (CCN1) in ethanol-exposed hepatocytes, which was essential for pterostilbene to execute its anti-senescent function. In vivo studies verified the anti-senescent effect of pterostilbene on hepatocytes of alcohol-intoxicated mice. Pterostilbene also relieved senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), redox imbalance, and steatosis by suppressing hepatic CCN1 expression. Mechanistically, pterostilbene-forced CCN1 reduction was dependent on posttranscriptional regulation via autophagy machinery but not transcriptional regulation. To be specific, pterostilbene restored autophagic flux in damaged hepatocytes and activated p62-mediated selective autophagy to recognize and lead CCN1 to autolysosomes for degradation. The protein abundance of Sestrin2 (SESN2), a core upstream modulator of autophagy pathway, was decreased in ethanol-administrated hepatocytes but rescued by co-treatment with pterostilbene. Induction of SESN2 protein by pterostilbene rescued ethanol-triggered autophagic dysfunction in hepatocytes, which then reduced senescence-associated markers, postponed hepatocyte senescence, and relieved alcohol-caused liver injury and inflammation. In conclusion, this work discovered a novel compound pterostilbene with therapeutic implications for alcoholic liver disease and uncover its underlying mechanism.

Radiomics model and clinical scale for the preoperative diagnosis of silent corticotroph adenomas

OBJECTIVE

Silent corticotroph adenomas (SCAs) are a subtype of nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas that exhibit more aggressive behavior. However, rapid and accurate preoperative diagnostic methods are currently lacking.

DESIGN

The purpose of this study was to examine the differences between SCA and non-SCA features and to establish radiomics models and a clinical scale for rapid and accurate prediction.

METHODS

A total of 260 patients (72 SCAs vs. 188 NSCAs) with nonfunctioning adenomas from Peking Union Medical College Hospital were enrolled in the study as the internal dataset. Thirty-five patients (6 SCAs vs. 29 NSCAs) from Fuzhou General Hospital were enrolled as the external dataset. Radiomics models and an SCA scale to preoperatively diagnose SCAs were established based on MR images and clinical features.

RESULTS

There were more female patients (internal dataset: p < 0.001; external dataset: p = 0.028) and more multiple microcystic changes (internal dataset: p < 0.001; external dataset: p = 0.012) in the SCA group. MRI showed more invasiveness (higher Knosp grades, p ≤ 0.001). The radiomics model achieved AUCs of 0.931 and 0.937 in the internal and external datasets, respectively. The clinical scale achieved an AUC of 0.877 and a sensitivity of 0.952 in the internal dataset and an AUC of 0.899 and a sensitivity of 1.0 in the external dataset.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on clinical information and imaging characteristics, the constructed radiomics model achieved high preoperative diagnostic ability. The SCA scale achieved the purpose of rapidity and practicality while ensuring sensitivity, which is conducive to simplifying clinical work.

Sestrin2: multifaceted functions, molecular basis, and its implications in liver diseases

Sestrin2 (SESN2), a highly conserved stress-responsive protein, can be triggered by various noxious stimuli, such as hypoxia, DNA damage, oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and inflammation. Multiple transcription factors regulate SESN2 expression, including hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1), p53, nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4), ATF6, etc. Upon induction, SESN2 generally leads to activation of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and inhibition of mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1). To maintain cellular homeostasis, SESN2 and its downstream molecules directly scavenge reactive oxygen species or indirectly influence the expression patterns of key genes associated with redox, macroautophagy, mitophagy, ER stress, apoptosis, protein synthesis, and inflammation. In liver diseases including acute liver injury, fatty liver diseases, hepatic fibrosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), SESN2 is abnormally expressed and correlated with disease progression. In NAFLD, SESN2 helps with postponing disease progression through balancing glycolipid metabolism and macroautophagy (lipophagy), and rectifying oxidative damage and ER stress. During hepatic fibrosis, SESN2 represses HSCs activation and intrahepatic inflammation, hindering the occurrence and progress of fibrogenesis. However, the role of SESN2 in HCC is controversial due to its paradoxical pro-autophagic and anti-apoptotic effects. In conclusion, this review summarizes the biological functions of SESN2 in hypoxia, genotoxic stress, oxidative stress, ER stress, and inflammation, and specifically emphasizes the pathophysiological significance of SESN2 in liver diseases, aiming to providing a comprehensive understanding for SESN2 as a potential therapeutic target in liver diseases.

Resveratrol promotes bone mass in ovariectomized rats and the SIRT1 rs7896005 SNP is associated with bone mass in women during perimenopause and early postmenopause

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to examine the effects of SIRT1 agonist resveratrol on bone mass in ovariectomized (OVX) rats and the SIRT1 single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs7896005 on bone mass in women during menopause and early postmenopause.

METHODS

An animal experiment was conducted on rats that were sham-operated (SHAM), OVX or OVX and different administered doses of resveratrol. Serum markers and femur microstructure and staining were assessed. A cross-sectional study was conducted in women undergoing menopause. SIRT1 protein and SIRT1 SNP rs7896005 were evaluated.

RESULTS

OVX rats administered resveratrol, especially high doses, showed lower bone loss than OVX rats. Serum osteoprotegerin (OPG) and femur SIRT1, β-catenin and bone mineral density (BMD) were significantly increased, whereas receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL) was significantly decreased. Serum SIRT1 levels were significantly lower in women with low bone mass (p < 0.01). Women with the CA genotype of rs7896005 had lower bone mass than those with the CC genotype. The A allele showed a significant negative effect on bone loss risk (odds ratio = 3.48; p = 0.025).

CONCLUSIONS

Resveratrol stimulated SIRT1 expression and Wnt/β-catenin signaling to promote bone mass in rat femurs. Among women in perimenopause and early postmenopause, SIRT1 protected bone mass, and the A allele of SIRT1 rs7896005 was a risk factor for reduced bone mass.

ZNF281 drives hepatocyte senescence in alcoholic liver disease by reducing HK2-stabilized PINK1/Parkin-mediated mitophagy

We investigated the role of zinc-finger protein 281 (ZNF281), a novel molecule, in ethanol-induced hepatocyte senescence and uncovered the potential mechanism. Real-time PCR, Western blot, immunofluorescence staining, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were performed to explore the role of ZNF281 in hepatocyte senescence. ZNF281 expression was upregulated in both alcohol-fed mice livers and ethanol-treated hepatocytes. Silence of ZNF281 in hepatocytes using siRNA mitigated ethanol-caused decrease in cell viability and increased release of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine transaminase, and lactate dehydrogenase. ZNF281 siRNA reduced senescence-associated β-galactosidase-positive cells under ethanol exposure, abolished cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase, and diminished senescence-associated secretory phenotype and proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and IL-6) release. At molecular level, ZNF281 deficiency altered the expression profile of senescence-associated proteins including p53, p21, p16, high mobility group AT-hook 1, and phospho-histone H2A.X and telomerase-associated regulatory factors including telomerase reverse transcriptase, telomeric repeat binding factor 1 (TRF1), and TRF2. ZNF281 knockdown promoted hepatocyte recovery from ethanol-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and ROS production, which was correlated with rescuing HK2-PINK1/Parkin signalling-mediated mitophagy. Mechanistically, ZNF281 directly bound to 5'-GGCGGCGGGCGG-3' motif within HK2 promoter region and transcriptionally repressed HK2 expression. Systematic ZNF281 knockdown by adeno-associated virus encoding ZNF281 shRNA protected mice from alcohol feeding-caused hepatocyte injury and senescence. This study provides a novel factor ZNF281 as a driver of hepatocyte senescence during alcoholic liver disease.

2, 4, 5-Trideoxyhexopyranosides derivatives of diphyllin: Synthesis and anticancer activity

Diphyllin and its natural derivatives were identified as potent vacuolar H⁺ -ATPase (V-ATPase) inhibitors. In this study, twelve 2, 4, 5-trideoxyhexopyranosides derivatives of diphyllin were synthesized. Most of these compounds showed potent abilities to inhibit the growth of HT-29, MCF-7, HepG2 cancer cells with IC₅₀ values at submicromolar concentration. The compounds 5c3 and 5c4 showed the best inhibitory activity on breast cancer cell lines MCF-7 with IC₅₀ values of 0.09 and 0.10 μM. Compounds 5c3 and 5c4 showed similar V-ATPase inhibitory potency to diphyllin. Molecular docking showed that a hydrogen bond was found between the hydroxyl of 5c3 and SerA534 in the pocket of the V-ATPase receptor.

Site-specific therapy in cancers of unknown primary site: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Cancer of unknown primary site (CUP) is a term applied to characterize pathologically confirmed metastatic cancer with unknown primary tumor origin. It remains uncertain whether patients with CUP benefit from site-specific therapy guided by molecular profiling.

Patients and methods

A systematic search in PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov, and of conference abstracts from January 1976 to January 2021 was performed to identify studies investigating the efficacy of site-specific therapy on patients with CUP. The quality of included studies was evaluated using the Cochrane risk of bias tool and Newcastle–Ottawa scale. Eligible studies were weighted and pooled for meta-analysis. Hazard ratios (HRs) for overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were assessed to compare the efficacy of site-specific therapy with empiric therapy in patients with CUP. In addition, subgroup analyses were conducted.

Results

Five studies comprising 1114 patients were identified, of which 454 patients received site-specific therapy, and 660 patients received empiric therapy. Our meta-analysis revealed that site-specific therapy was not significantly associated with improved PFS [HR 0.93, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.74-1.17, P = 0.534] and OS (HR 0.75, 95% CI 0.55-1.03, P = 0.069), compared with empiric therapy. However, during subgroup analysis significantly improved OS was associated with site-specific therapy in the high-accuracy predictive assay subgroup (HR 0.46, 95% CI 0.26-0.81, P = 0.008) compared with the low accuracy predictive assay subgroup (HR 0.93, 95% CI 0.75-1.15, P = 0.509). Furthermore, compared with patients with less responsive tumor types, more survival benefit from site-specific therapy was found in patients with more responsive tumors (HR 0.67, 95% CI 0.46-0.97, P = 0.037).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that site-specific therapy is not significantly associated with improved survival outcomes; however, it might benefit patients with CUP with responsive tumor types.

•

Studies evaluating the role of site-specific therapy guided by molecular profiling in CUP provided contradictory results.

•

Site-specific therapy is not significantly associated with improved survival outcomes in the overall CUP population.

•

Molecularly defined site-specific therapy may improve OS only when high-accuracy assays assign CUP to responsive tumor types.

A novel non‑selective atypical PKC agonist could protect neuronal cell line from Aβ‑oligomer induced toxicity by suppressing Aβ generation

Atypical protein kinase C (aPKCs) serve key functions in embryonic development by regulating apical-basal polarity. Previous studies have shed light on their roles during adulthood, especially in the development of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Although the crystal structure of PKCι has been resolved, an agonist of aPKCs remains to be discovered. In the present study, by using the Discovery Studio program and LibDock methodology, a small molecule library (K66-X4436 KINA Set) of compounds were screened for potential binding to PKCι. Subsequently, the computational docking results were validated using affinity selection-mass spectrometry, before in vitro kinase activity was used to determine the function of the hit compounds. A cell-based model assay that can mimic the pathology of AD was then established and used to assess the function of these hit compounds. As a result, the aPKC agonist Z640 was identified, which could bind to PKCι in silico, in vitro and in this cell-based model. Z640 was further confirmed as a non-selective aPKC agonist that can activate the kinase activity of both PKCι and PKCζ. In the cell-based assay, Z640 was found to protect neuronal cell lines from amyloid-β (Aβ) oligomer-induced cell death by reducing reactive oxygen species production and restore mitochondrial function. In addition, Z640 could reduce Aβ40 generation in a dose-dependent manner and shift amyloid precursor protein processing towards the non-amyloid pathway. To conclude, the present study is the first, to the best of the authors' knowledge to identify an aPKC agonist by combining computer-assisted drug discovery and cell-based assays. The present study also revealed that aPKC agonists have therapeutic potential for the treatment of AD.

Lactobacillus plantarum Lp3a improves functional constipation: evidence from a human randomized clinical trial and animal model

Background

Functional constipation (FC) is a common gastrointestinal (GI) disorder characterized by symptoms of constipation without a clear physiologic or anatomic cause. Gut microbiome dysbiosis has been postulated to be a factor in the development of FC, and treatment with probiotic regimens, including strains of Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum), has demonstrated efficacy in managing symptoms. To further understand the role of L. plantarum in GI health, we conducted an animal study and a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial to evaluate the effect of a specific sub-strain, Lp3a, on FC.

Methods

For the animal study, male Kunming mice were treated with doses of L. plantarum Lp3a ranging from 0.67 to 2.00 g/kg or an equivalent amount of placebo for 15 days prior to the induction of constipation via 20 mL/kg of 25% diphenoxylate solution. GI motility parameters including intestinal motion and stool amount were then assessed. In the human study, 120 patients with FC were randomized to treatment [L. plantarum Lp3a; 2×1.0×10¹⁰ (colony forming units; CFU) ×7 days] or control groups (n=60 each). The primary endpoint was survey information on FC signs/symptoms. Participants and observers were blinded to group allocation. A subset of 20 Lp3a treated patients underwent pre- and post-treatment 16 s ribosomal ribonucleic acid (rRNA) gene sequencing. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) of L. plantarum Lp3a was also performed.

Results

Lp3a-treated mice showed significantly improved intestinal motion, reduced time to first defecation, and increased stool amounts. Similarly, patients in the treatment group (n=59) reported significant improvements in FC signs/symptoms compared to controls (n=58; all P<0.05). Although 16 s rRNA sequencing revealed no significant variations between pre- and post-treatment samples, WGS of Lp3a itself revealed several biological pathways that may underlie the relief of FC symptoms in animals and humans, including methane and fatty acid metabolism and bile acid biosynthesis.

Conclusions

We found that the use of the novel probiotic sub-strain, L. plantarum Lp3a, led to clinically significant improvements in FC in both mice and humans, and identified the potential biological mechanisms underlying this activity.

Activation of UQCRC2-dependent mitophagy by tetramethylpyrazine inhibits MLKL-mediated hepatocyte necroptosis in alcoholic liver disease

Hepatocyte necroptosis is a core pathogenetic event during alcoholic liver disease. This study was aimed to explore the potential of tetramethylpyrazine (TMP), an active hepatoprotective ingredient extracted from Ligusticum Wallichii Franch, in limiting alcohol-triggered hepatocyte necroptosis and further specify the molecular mechanism. Results revealed that TMP reduced activation of receptor-interacting protein kinase 1 (RIPK1)/RIPK3 necrosome in ethanol-exposed hepatocytes and phosphorylation of mixed-lineage kinase domain-like protein (MLKL), which thereby diminished necroptosis and leakage of damage-associated molecular patterns. Suppression on mitochondrial translocation of p-MLKL by TMP contributed to recovery of mitochondrial function in ethanol-damaged hepatocytes. TMP also disrupted necroptotic signal loop by interrupting mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS)-dependent positive feedback between p-MLKL and RIPK1/RIPK3 necrosome. Further, TMP promoted clearance of impaired mitochondria in ethanol-incubated hepatocytes via restoring PINK1/parkin-mediated mitophagy. Ubiquinol-cytochrome c reductase core protein 2 (UQCRC2) was downregulated in ethanol-exposed hepatocytes, which was restored after TMP treatment. In vitro UQCRC2 knockdown lowered the capacities of TMP in reducing mitochondrial ROS accumulation, relieving mitochondria damage, and enhancing PINK1/parkin-mediated mitophagy in ethanol-exposed hepatocytes. Analogously, systematic UQCRC2 knockdown interrupted the actions of TMP to trigger autophagic signal, repress necroptotic signal, and protect against alcoholic liver injury, inflammation, and ROS overproduction. In conclusion, this work concluded that TMP rescued UQCRC2 expression in ethanol-challenged hepatocytes, which contributed to necroptosis inhibition by facilitating PINK1/parkin-mediated mitophagy. These findings uncovered a potential molecular pharmacological mechanism underlying the hepatoprotective action of TMP and suggested TMP as a promising therapeutic candidate for alcoholic liver disease.

Roles of necroptosis in alcoholic liver disease and hepatic pathogenesis

Chronic alcohol consumption can cause alcoholic liver disease (ALD), leading to morbidity and mortality worldwide. Complex disease progression of ALD varies from alcoholic fatty liver to alcoholic steatohepatitis, eventually contributing to fibrosis and cirrhosis. Accumulating evidence revealed that necroptosis, a way of programmed cell death different from apoptosis and traditional necrosis, is involved in the underlying pathogenic molecular mechanism of ALD. Receptor‐interacting protein kinase 1 (RIPK1), RIPK3 and mixed‐lineage kinase domain‐like pseudokinase have been implicated as key mediators to execute necroptosis. Also, necroptosis has gained increasing attention due to its potential association with primary pathological hallmarks of ALD, including oxidative stress, hepatic steatosis and inflammation. This review summarizes the recent progress on the roles and mechanisms of necroptosis and focuses on the crosstalk between necroptosis and the other pathogenesis of ALD, providing a theoretical basis for targeting necroptosis as a novel treatment for ALD.

A Novel Probiotic Formula, BIOCG, Protects Against Alzheimer's-Related Cognitive Deficits via Regulation of Dendritic Spine Dynamics

BACKGROUND

The brain-gut-microbiome axis has emerged as an important pathway through which perturbations in the gut and/or microbial microenvironment can impact neurological function. Such alterations have been implicated in a variety of neuropsychiatric disorders, includ- ing depression, anxiety, and Alzheimer's Disease (AD) and the use of probiotics as therapy for th- ese diseases remains promising. However, the mechanisms underlying the gut microenvironment's influence on disease pathogenesis and therapy remain unclear.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of a novel probiotic formula, BIOCG, on cognitive function and pathobiological mechanisms, including amyloid processing and dendritic spine dynamics, in a mouse model of AD.

METHODS

BIOCG was administered for 3 months to 3xTg or 3xTg; Thy1-YFP AD mice and func- tional outcomes were assessed via behavioral testing and electrophysiology. Mechanisms relevant to AD pathogenesis including dendritic spine morphology and turnover, Amyloid Precursor Pro- tein (APP) processing and microglial phenotype were also evaluated. Finally, we sequenced fecal samples following probiotic treatment to assess the impact on gut microbial composition and corre- late the changes with the above described measures.

RESULTS

Mice treated with BIOCG demonstrated preserved cognitive abilities and stronger Long- Term Potentiation (LTP), spontaneous Excitatory Postsynaptic Currents (sEPSC), and glutamate-in- duced LTPs, indicative of functional and electrophysiological effects. Moreover, we observed atten- uated AD pathogenesis, including reduced Amyloid Beta (Aβ) burden, as well as more mature den- dritic spines in the BIOCG-treated. Our finding of changes in microglial number and phenotype in the treatment group suggests that this formulation may mediate its effects via attenuation of neu- roinflammation. Sequencing data confirmed that the gut microbiome in treated mice was more varied and harbored a greater proportion of "beneficial" bacteria.

CONCLUSION

Overall, our results indicate that treatment with BIOCG enhances microbial diversity and, through gut-brain axis interactions, attenuates neuroinflammation to produce histologic and functional improvement in AD pathogenesis.

Volatile organic compounds from a mixed fleet with numerous E10-fuelled vehicles in a tunnel study in China: Emission characteristics, ozone formation and secondary organic aerosol formation

The Chinese government has developed an ambitious project to promote the application of ethanol gasoline (E10) on a national scale since 2017. Given the difference in fuel properties between E10 and traditional gasoline, it is necessary to evaluate the volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions from E10-fuelled vehicles. In this study, a two-week sampling campaign was conducted in an urban tunnel, in which E10-fuelled vehicles were dominant, to evaluate the characteristics of VOC emissions from the mixed fleet. In total, 105 VOC species were identified, and the ozone formation potential (OFP) and secondary organic aerosol formation potential (SOAFP) were estimated. The results showed that for vehicular VOC concentrations in the tunnel, alkanes, oxygenated VOCs (OVOCs) and alkenes were the most abundant VOC groups, with the average proportion being more than 80% of the total VOCs. The fleet-average VOC emission factor (EF) was 14.8 mg/km/veh, which was much lower than that from traditional gasoline-fuelled vehicle fleets, and alkanes, OVOCs, alkenes and aromatics were the major VOC groups. Because of the large number of E10-fuelled vehicles in the mixed fleet, a high proportion of OVOCs among the vehicular VOC emissions was observed. Ethane, acrolein, ethanol, ethylene and toluene were the top five VOC species with the largest EF in VOC emissions from the fleet. Alkenes were the main contributors with an average contribution of 43.9% of the total OFP, whereas aromatics dominated the total SOAFP by 95.8% on average. These results may provide a reference for the extensive application of ethanol gasoline and the development of vehicular emission models.

Characteristics of tailpipe volatile halogenated hydrocarbon (VHC) emissions from in-use vehicles during real-world driving

Vehicular emissions have become a primary anthropogenic source of urban atmospheric volatile halogenated hydrocarbons (VHCs) with the rapid increase of vehicle population, while characteristics of the VHC emissions from different vehicles were rarely systematically investigated. In this study, the on-road tailpipe emissions were sampled from seven in-use vehicles, including two light-duty gasoline vehicles (LDGV), three light-duty diesel trucks (LDDT), one heavy-duty diesel truck (HDDT), and a liquefied petroleum gas-electric hybrid bus (LPGB), using a portable emission measurement system (PEMS) combined with summa canisters, and 35 individual VHC species were identified by a gas chromatography mass spectrometry detector (GC-MSD). Results showed that VHC emissions under urban driving conditions were much higher than those on the suburban roads and highways. The VHC emission factors of LDGV were 1.2 ± 0.34 mg/km and 3.6 ± 1.5, 6.8 ± 0.89, and 1.6 ± 0.28 mg/km for LDDT, HDDT, and LPGB, respectively. For the LDGV, chlorobenzene, 1,2-dichloroethane, and hexachlorobutadiene were the top three VHC species. 1,2-Dichloroethane, trichloromethane, and methyl chloride were the main VHC constituents in the LDDT. Chlorobenzene was the most abundant VOC species for the HDDT, followed by 1,2-dichloroethane and 1,4-dichlorobenzene. The major species for LPGB were 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene, carbon tetrachloride, and benzyl chloride. The major tailpipe VHC species obtained in this study were partial consistent with previous studies with different test methods. The results provide an initial evaluation of the tailpipe VHC emissions, which may provide experimental data support for the refined source apportionment of atmospheric VHCs and the control of vehicular VHCs.

On-Road Emission Characteristics of Volatile Organic Compounds from Light-Duty Diesel Trucks Meeting Different Emission Standards : Investigation on the characteristics of tailpipe volatile organic compound emissions with a portable emissions measurement system

On-road tailpipe volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were sampled from light-duty diesel trucks (LDDTs) compliant with Euro III to V, and a total of 102 VOC species were quantified. The composition characteristics and carbon number distributions were investigated, and the contribution of individual VOC to ozone formation potentials (OFPs) was weighted. Results showed that alkanes were the major VOC species, accounting for approximately 65.5%. VOC emissions decreased significantly as the standards became stricter, especially for alkanes and aromatics; and the VOC emissions on highway were much lower than those on urban roads. Carbon number distribution of VOCs was mainly concentrated in C3‐C4 and C10‐C12. Aromatics were the major contributors to ozone formation, taking up 49.3‐57.6% of the total OFPs, and naphthalene, 1-butene, dodecane, 1,2,3-trimethylbenzene and 2-propenal were the top five species. The information provided insight into the tailpipe VOC emission characteristics and may help decision makers drafting related emission policies.

A Review of the Brain-Gut-Microbiome Axis and the Potential Role of Microbiota in Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative process characterized by loss of neurons in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex, leading to progressive cognitive decline. Pathologically, the hallmark of AD is accumulation of "senile" plaques composed of amyloid-β (Aβ) protein surrounding neurons in affected regions. Despite extensive research into AD pathogenesis and therapeutic targets, there remains no breakthroughs in its management. In recent years, there has been a spark of interest in the connection between the brain and gastrointestinal tract, referred to as the brain-gut axis, and its potential implications for both metabolic and neurologic disease. Moreover, the gastrointestinal flora, referred to as the microbiome, appears to exert significant influence over the brain-gut axis. With the need for expanded horizons in understanding and treating AD, many have turned to the brain-gut-microbiome axis for answers. Here we provide a review of the brain-gut-microbiome axis and discuss the evidence supporting alterations of the axis in the pathogenesis of AD. Specifically, we highlight the role for the microbiome in disruption of Aβ metabolism/clearance, increased permeability of the blood-brain barrier and modulation of the neuroinflammatory response, and inhibition of hippocampal neurogenesis. The majority of the above described findings are the result of excellent, albeit basic and pre-clinical studies. Therefore, we conclude with a brief description of documented clinical support for brain-gut-microbiome axis alteration in AD, including potential microbiome-based therapeutics for AD. Collectively, these findings suggest that the brain-gut-microbiome axis may be a "lost link" in understanding and treating AD and call for future work.

Procyanidin B2 and rutin in Ginkgo biloba extracts protect human retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells from oxidative stress by modulating Nrf2 and Erk1/2 signalling

Oxidative stress plays an important role in the pathogenesis of human retinal diseases. Ginkgo biloba products are widely consumed herbal supplements that contain ingredients with anti-oxidant potentials. However, the active agents in ginkgo biloba extracts (GBE) are unclear. This study assessed the anti-oxidant effects of 19 natural compounds isolated from GBE to provide a rational basis for their use in preventing retinal diseases. The compounds were tested in retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells subjected to tert-butyl hydroperoxide (t-BHP)-induced oxidative stress. Cell viability and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) were assessed and flow cytometry was used to delineate the cell death profile. The expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor-2 (Nrf2) was activated in RPE cells by t-BHP accompanied with an activation of Erk1/2 signaling. GBE-derived rutin and procyanidin B2 ameliorated t-BHP-induced cell death and promoted cell viability by suppressing intracellular ROS generation. These agents also enhanced Nrf2 expression with activating Erk1/2 signaling in RPE cells. In contrast, the other compounds tested were minimally active and did not prevent the loss of cell viability elicited by t-BHP. The present findings suggest that rutin and procyanidin B2 may have potential therapeutic values in the prevention of retinal diseases induced by oxidative damage.

Entamoeba gingivalis Exerts Severe Pathogenic Effects on the Oral Mucosa

The protozoan Entamoeba gingivalis colonizes the healthy oral mucosa with a prevalence of 15%. Colonization can be asymptomatic, and it is considered not pathogenic. However, it is able to invade lacerated oral mucosa, where it ingests fragments of live cells, suggesting pathogenous potential. Here, we characterized the transcriptomes of gingival cells after infection with E. gingivalis using RNA sequencing and observed pathogen interaction with the epithelial monolayer barrier by scanning electron microscopy. In epithelial and fibroblast cells, strongest differential expression showed gene set “chemokines and inflammatory molecules in myeloid cells” (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.9, effect size 5.15, adjusted P = 3.1 × 10⁻¹⁹) and “cell cycle and growth arrest” (AUC = 0.91, effect size = 4.56, adjusted P = 4.8 × 10⁻⁹), respectively. The most upregulated genes were TNF (fold change 430) and IL8 (fold change 359) in epithelial cells and ZN331 (fold change 18) in fibroblasts. We showed that E. gingivalis killed live epithelial cells by trogocytosis, demonstrating strong pathogenic potential.

A Constant-Force End-Effector With Online Force Adjustment for Robotic Ultrasonography

In this letter, we propose a novel constant-force end-effector (CFEE) to address current limitations in robotic ultrasonography. The CFEE uses a parallel, motor-spring-based solution to precisely generate constant operating forces over a wide range and enable the ultrasound (US) probe to adapt to the abdominal contours autonomously. A displacement measurement unit was developed to realize the acquisition of probe position and precise control of the operating force. Moreover, the operating force can be adjusted online to maintain safety and continuity of operation. Simulations and experiments were carried out to evaluate the performance. Results show that the proposed CFEE can provide constant forces of 4-12 N with displacements of 0-8 mm. The maximum relative error of force generation is 8.28%, and the accuracy and precision for displacement measurement are 0.29 mm and ±0.16 mm, respectively. Various operating forces can be adjusted online during the same operation. Ultrasound images acquired by the proposed CFEE are of equally good quality compared to a manual sonographer scan. The proposed CFEE would have potential further medical applications.

Synthesis and Assessment of 3-Substituted Phenazines as Novel Antichlamydial Agents

BACKGROUND

In the past century, many phenazines were isolated from the marine microorganism, and some of these phenazines possessed potent antibacterial activities. We found that a few of the synthesized 4-substituted phenazines could block the infectivity of chlamydiae without host cell toxicity.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to design and synthesize two series of novel 3-substituted phenazines to find novel antichlamydial agents.

METHODS

The 3-substituted phenazines were synthesized via Buchwald-Hartwig cross coupling reaction and Suzuki reaction from 3-bromo-1-methoxyphenazine. The antichlamydial activity of these synthesized compounds was evaluated by determining their effect on the yield of infectious progeny EBs. Cytotoxicity of these compounds on host cells was assessed by the treatment of uninfected HeLa cells using WST-1 method.

RESULTS

Most of the 3-substituted phenazines possessed potent antichlamydial activity with IC50 values from 0.15 to 12.08 μM against Chlamydia trachomatis L2, C. muridarum MoPn and C. pneumoniae AR39. Among them, 7d and 9a exhibited better antichlamydial activity with IC50 values from 0.20 to 1.01 μM while they have no apparent cytotoxicity to host cells. Biological assay disclosed that both 7d and 9a inhibited chlamydial infection by reducing elementary body infectivity and disturbing chlamydial growth during the whole chlamydial developmental cycle.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggested that 3-substituted phenazine derivatives might be a promising class of therapeutic agents for chlamydial infections. More effective phenazines with low toxicity could be acquired through further chemical modification on C-3 position rather than C-4 position of phenazine.

Impaired Transport Activity of Human Organic Anion Transporters (OATs) and Organic Anion Transporting Polypeptides (OATPs) by Wnt Inhibitors

The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is dysregulated in diseases and Wnt inhibitors like PRI-724 are in clinical development. This study evaluated the regulatory actions of PRI-724 and other Wnt inhibitors on the transport activity of human renal Organic anion transporters (OATs) and Organic anion transporting polypeptides (OATPs). The substrate uptake by OAT4 and OATP2B1 was markedly decreased by PRI-724 (V_max/K_m: ∼26% and ∼17% of corresponding control), with less pronounced decreases in OAT1, OAT3 and OAT1A2. PRI-724 decreased the plasma membrane expression of inhibited OATs/OATPs but didn't affect their total cellular expression. Two model Wnt inhibitors - FH535 and 21H7 - were also tested in comparative studies. Like PRI-724, they also strongly decreased the activities and membrane expression of multiple OATs/OATPs. In contrast, FH535 didn't affect the substrate uptake by organic cation transporters. In control studies, the EGFR inhibitor lapatinib did not inhibit the function of some OATs/OATPs. Together these findings suggest that Wnt inhibitors selectively modulate the function of multiple organic anions transporters, so their clinical use may have unanticipated effects on drug entry into cells. These findings are pertinent to current clinical trials that have been designed to understand the safety and efficacy of new Wnt inhibitor drugs.

[Method of dietary nutritional status assessment and its application in cohort study of nutritional epidemiology]

Minimizing the burden on study subjects and assessing the general dietary nutritional status as accurately as possible are the basis of a nutritional epidemiological cohort study in the general population. While introducing the main dietary nutrition assessment methods, this paper manly describes the basic contents and principles for the development of food frequency questionnaire, and briefly illustrates the problems and solutions for the development of area specific food frequency questionnaires by taking the example of Tianjin Chronic Low-grade Systemic Inflammation and Health (TCLSIH) cohort study. Finally, discusses preliminarily the necessity and possibility of developing a national food frequency questionnaire.

The involvement of human organic anion transporting polypeptides (OATPs) in drug-herb/food interactions

Organic anion transporting polypeptides (OATPs) are important transporter proteins that are expressed at the plasma membrane of cells, where they mediate the influx of endogenous and exogenous substances including hormones, natural compounds and many clinically important drugs. OATP1A2, OATP2B1, OATP1B1 and OATP1B3 are the most important OATP isoforms and influence the pharmacokinetic performance of drugs. These OATPs are highly expressed in the kidney, intestine and liver, where they determine the distribution of drugs to these tissues. Herbal medicines are increasingly popular for their potential health benefits. Humans are also exposed to many natural compounds in fruits, vegetables and other food sources. In consequence, the consumption of herbal medicines or food sources together with a range of important drugs can result in drug-herb/food interactions via competing specific OATPs. Such interactions may lead to adverse clinical outcomes and unexpected toxicities of drug therapies. This review summarises the drug-herb/food interactions of drugs and chemicals that are present in herbal medicines and/or food in relation to human OATPs. This information can contribute to improving clinical outcomes and avoiding unexpected toxicities of drug therapies in patients.

Entamoeba gingivalis Causes Oral Inflammation and Tissue Destruction

A metagenomics analysis showed a strongly increased frequency of the protozoan Entamoeba gingivalis in inflamed periodontal pockets, where it contributed the second-most abundant rRNA after human rRNA. This observation and the close biological relationship to Entamoeba histolytica, which causes inflammation and tissue destruction in the colon of predisposed individuals, raised our concern about its putative role in the pathogenesis of periodontitis. Histochemical staining of gingival epithelium inflamed from generalized severe chronic periodontitis visualized the presence of E. gingivalis in conjunction with abundant neutrophils. We showed that on disruption of the epithelial barrier, E. gingivalis invaded gingival tissue, where it moved and fed on host cells. We validated the frequency of E. gingivalis in 158 patients with periodontitis and healthy controls by polymerase chain reaction and microscopy. In the cases, we detected the parasite in 77% of inflamed periodontal sites and 22% of healthy sites; 15% of healthy oral cavities were colonized by E. gingivalis. In primary gingival epithelial cells, we demonstrated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction that infection with E. gingivalis but not with the oral bacterial pathogen Porphyromonas gingivalis strongly upregulated the inflammatory cytokine IL8 (1,900 fold, P = 2 × 10–4) and the epithelial barrier gene MUC21 (8-fold, P = 7 × 10–4). In gingival fibroblasts, we showed upregulation of the collagenase MMP13 (11-fold, P = 3 × 10–4). Direct contact of E. gingivalis to gingival epithelial cells inhibited cell proliferation. We indicated the strong virulence potential of E. gingivalis and showed that the mechanisms of tissue invasion and destruction are similar to the colonic protozoan parasite E. histolytica. In conjunction with abundant colonization of inflamed periodontal sites and the known resistance of Entamoeba species to neutrophils, antimicrobial peptides, and various antibiotics, our results raise the awareness of this protozoan as a potential and, to date, underrated microbial driver of destructive forms of periodontitis.

Excessive daytime sleepiness with snoring or witnessed apnea is associated with handgrip strength: a population-based study

BACKGROUND

Sarcopenia is emerging as an important public health problem, and evidences have determined that poor sleep is associated with muscle strength, but the potential effects of excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS), snoring and witnessed apnea on handgrip strength have not been evaluated.

AIM

We aimed to examine the association between EDS, snoring, witnessed apnea and muscle strength in an adult population.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study comprised 19 434 adults. Handgrip strength was measured using a handheld digital dynamometer. EDS was assessed by Epworth Sleepiness Scale, snoring and witnessed apnea during sleep were reported through simple yes/no questions. Analysis of covariance was carried out to determine the association between EDS with snoring or witnessed apnea and muscle strength.

RESULTS

The means (95% confidence interval) for average handgrip strength/body weight (kg/kg) across symptoms categories were 0.396 (0.333-0.472), 0.393 (0.330-0.467), 0.396 (0.333-0.471) and 0.386 (0.325-0.460) (P < 0.0001), respectively. Similar results were observed with maximal handgrip strength/body weight (kg/kg).

CONCLUSIONS

Self-reported EDS accompanied with snoring or apnea is associated with lowest handgrip strength, independently of confounding factors. Whether improvement of EDS, snoring and apnea, can ameliorate age-associated decline in muscle strength warrants further studies.

OS8.1 A phase 0/2 clinical trial of a CDK4/6 inhibitor in aggressive meningioma patients

BACKGROUND

New approaches are urgently needed for aggressive meningiomas, which remain largely incurable. Forkhead Box M1 (FOXM1) has been identified as a master transcription factor in aggressive meningiomas and Cyclin D-dependent Kinases (CDK) are positive regulators of cell-cycle entry, promoting tumorigenesis through FOXM1 activation. We evaluated the tumor pharmacokinetics (PK), tumor pharmacodynamics (PD), and preliminary clinical response of ribociclib, a selective CDK4/6-inhibitor, in aggressive meningioma patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Eight aggressive WHO Grade II/III meningioma patients with intact RB expression were enrolled and administered oral ribociclib daily (900mg) for 5 days prior to tumor resection. Plasma, tumor, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples were collected at 2, 8, or 24 h after the last dose. Total and unbound drug concentrations were determined using a validated LC-MS/MS method. PD effects, including RB and FoxM1 phosphorylation, were compared to matched archival tissue. Patients with PK and PD responses in tumor tissue, defined as unbound ribociclib concentration > 5-fold in vitro IC50 (0.04µM) and >20% decrease in pRB levels, respectively, were enrolled into an exploratory Phase 2 cohort.

RESULTS

The median CSF concentration of ribociclib was 0.25 µM. In tumor tissue, the median unbound ribociclib concentration was 1.36 µM and the median unbound tumor-to-plasma ratio was 5.34. Suppression of G1-to-S phase was inferred in tumors with declining FoxM1 phosphorylation (50%), RB phosphorylation (38%), and cellular proliferation (75%). Four patients demonstrated concurrent PK and PD responses and were graduated to continuous ribociclib therapy. At one year, two of these patients (one Grade II and one Grade III) demonstrate partial responses per RANO criteria.

CONCLUSION

Ribociclib achieves pharmacologically-active concentrations in aggressive meningioma tissue. Target modulation was demonstrated by a decrease in FOXM1-mediated tumor proliferation. Further investigation of ribociclib as a therapeutic strategy for aggressive meningiomas is warranted.

OS4.2 Phase 0 trial of Ceritinib in brain metastasis and recurrent glioblastoma

BACKGROUND

Ceritinib is an orally bioavailable, small molecule inhibitor for ALK/IGFR1/FAK, which are highly expressed in glioblastoma and brain metastases. Preclinical and clinical data suggest that ceritinib has activity in central nervous system (CNS) malignancies, but to date there is no direct evidence in patients. This study assessed the pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of ceritinib in recurrent glioblastoma and brain metastasis patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Three brain metastasis and seven glioblastoma patients with high expression of pSTAT5b/pFAK/pIGFR1 were enrolled and treated with oral ceritinib daily (750 mg) for 10 days prior to tumor resection. Plasma, tumor, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples were collected at ~ 4 and 24 h following the last dose. Total and unbound drug concentrations were determined using LC-MS/MS. PD response was assessed by immunohistochemical analysis of pALK, pFAK, pIGFR1, and pIRS1 staining in treated tumor and matched archival tissues.

RESULTS

Ceritinib was highly bound to human plasma protein (median fraction unbound (Fu), 1.4%) and to brain tumor tissue (median Fu, 0.073% and 0.14% in enhancing and non-enhancing regions respectively). There was a large interindividual variability in drug CNS penetration, with the median unbound concentrations in enhancing, non-enhancing, and CSF of 0.040, 0.006, and 0.012 µM, respectively. The median unbound tumor-to-plasma ratio was 2.44 and 0.33 in enhancing and non-enhancing areas, respectively. In one patient with brain metastasis, drug binding to enhancing tumor was significantly lower (Fu, 1.62%), resulting in a higher unbound drug tumor concentration and CSF concentration as compared to those in glioblastoma patients. In all patients, no changes in PD markers were detected.

CONCLUSION

Ceritinib is highly bound to plasma proteins and tumor tissues. Unbound drug concentrations achieved in brain metastasis and glioblastoma are unlikely sufficient for target modulation.

HMGA2 Modulates the TGFβ/Smad, TGFβ/ERK and Notch Signaling Pathways in Human Lens Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Multiple signaling pathways coordinately promote epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in lens epithelial cells (LECs), where transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ)-mediated signaling plays a central role. But the mechanism of crosstalk among these pathways remains obscure. The objective of this study is to investigate the regulatory effect of the high mobility group protein A2 (HMGA2) on the signaling pathways in lens fibrosis.

METHODS

The human anterior capsulorhexis specimens were collected. The human SRA01/04 LEC line was cultured and treated with recombinant human TGFβ2 (5ng/ml). For inhibition of signaling pathways, a selective inhibitor SB431542, U0126 or DAPT was added to LECs respectively. The specific small interfering RNA (siRNA) were transfected to LECs for gene silence. The mRNAs expressions were measured by realtime PCR and the proteins expressions were determined by western blot and immunofluorescent staining.

RESULTS

HMGA2 and EMT markers α-smooth muscle actin (SMA), fibronectin (FN) and collagen type I (Col I) were overexpressed in human ASC specimens and TGFβ2 stimulated EMT in LECs. While blockage of EMT by a selective inhibitor of TGFβ/Smad, TGFβ/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) or Notch signaling pathway could significantly inhibited HMGA2 protein expression. And silence of HMGA2 by siRNA could significantly inhibit TGFβ2 induced expression of EMT markers including FN, Col I, collagen type IV (Col IV), key transcription factors Snail and Slug, and remarkably upregulate the epithelial markers E-cadherin and tight junction protein (ZO-1). In addition, silence of HMGA2 gene could abrogate TGFβ2 induced phosphorylation of Smad2, Smad3 as well as ERK1/2. Blockage of HMGA2 could also inhibit the upregulation of Jagged1, Notch2, and Notch3 induced by TGFβ2.

CONCLUSION

This study indicated that HMGA2 functions as a shared effector in TGFβ2- induced lens fibrosis, modulating the signaling network necessary for EMT in a positive feedback loop.

Dual-binding pyridine and rhodamine B conjugate derivatives as fluorescent chemosensors for ferric ions in aqueous media and living cells

Two new pyridine-type rhodamine B chemosensors (RBPO and RBPF) used to detect Fe3+ have been designed and synthesized, and the sensing behavior towards various metal ions was evaluated via UV-vis and fluorescence spectroscopic techniques. Both RBPO and RBPF not only have good spectral responses to Fe3+ in an EtOH/H2O solution (3 : 1, v/v, HEPES, 0.5 mM, pH = 7.33) with low detection limits and high binding constants, but also suffer from less interference from common metal cations. The two chemosensors are further proven to be practical in sensitively monitoring trace Fe3+ in real water specimens. Intracellular imaging applications demonstrated that RBPO and RBPF can be used as two fluorescent chemosensors for the detection of Fe3+ in living human breast adenocarcinoma (MCF-7) cells.

Ca2+/Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase II Regulation by Inhibitor 1 of Protein Phosphatase 1 Protects Against Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury

Ca²⁺/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase IIδ (CaMKIIδ) plays a vital role in cardiovascular system. However, the potential protective role of inhibitor 1 of protein phosphatase 1 (I1PP1), which can regulate CaMKII, on myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury remains unknown. In the present study, expression of CaMKIIδ variants was detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. I1PP1 was overexpressed by pericardial injection of recombinant adenovirus. Two weeks later, rats were subjected to left anterior descending ligation for 30 minutes followed by reperfusion. Myocardial infarct size was assessed by Evans blue/triphenyl tetrazolium chloride staining. Serum creatine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity as well as myocardial pathological structure were detected. CaMKII activity was evaluated by phosphorylation of phospholamban (PLB) and oxidation of CaMKII. Expression of dynamin-related protein 1 (DRP1) and optic atrophy 1 (OPA1) in the mitochondria was measured by Western blot. We found that CaMKIIδA and CaMKIIδB expression decreased, while the expression of CaMKIIδC increased after myocardial I/R. Moreover, after 30-minute ischemia followed by 6 hours of reperfusion, I1PP1 overexpression reduced myocardial infarct size, decreased serum CK and LDH activity, ameliorated myocardial pathological structure, inhibited PLB phosphorylation at Thr17, suppressed CaMKII oxidation, elevated CaMKIIδA and CaMKIIδB variants but reduced CaMKIIδC variants, attenuated myocardial oxidative stress, improved myocardial mitochondrial ultrastructure, increased mitochondrial number and mitochondrial DNA copy number, and decreased DRP1 but increased OPA1 protein expression from the mitochondria in rats. Thus, I1PP1 regulated CaMKII, protected mitochondrial function, reduced oxidative stress, and attenuated myocardial I/R injury.

Gallic acid protects against ethanol-induced hepatocyte necroptosis via an NRF2-dependent mechanism

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD), featured by excessive hepatocyte death and inflammation, is a prevalent disease that causes heavy health burdens worldwide. Hepatocyte necroptosis is a central event that promotes inflammation in ALD. At molecular levels, inhibition of nuclear factor (erythroid - derived 2) - like 2 (NRF2) was an important trigger for cell necroptosis. The protective effects of gallic acid (GA) on liver diseases caused by multiple factors have been elucidated, however, the role of GA in ALD remained unclear. Therefore, this study was aimed to investigate the anti-ALD effects of GA and further reveal the molecular mechanisms. Results showed that GA could effectively recover cell viability and reduce the release of aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, and lactic dehydrogenase by ethanol-stimulated hepatocytes. More importantly, GA limited hepatocyte necroptosis under ethanol stimulation, which was characterized by reduced expression of distinct necroptotic signals receptor-interacting protein 1 (RIP1) and RIP3 and release of high mobility group box protein 1. Mechanistically, GA could induce NRF2 expression in ethanol-incubated hepatocytes, which was a molecular basis for GA to suppress ethanol-induced hepatocyte necroptosis. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that GA improved ethanol-induced hepatocyte necroptosis in vitro. Further, NRF2 activation might be requisite for GA to exert its protective effects.