Novel alternative tools for metastatic pheochromocytomas/paragangliomas prediction

OBJECTIVE

The existing prediction models for metastasis in pheochromocytomas/paragangliomas (PPGLs) showed high heterogeneity in different centers. Therefore, this study aimed to establish new prediction models integrating multiple variables based on different algorithms.

DESIGN AND METHODS

Data of patients with PPGLs undergoing surgical resection at the Peking Union Medical College Hospital from 2007 to 2022 were collected retrospectively. Patients were randomly divided into the training and testing sets in a ratio of 7:3. Subsequently, decision trees, random forest, and logistic models were constructed for metastasis prediction with the training set and Cox models for metastasis-free survival (MFS) prediction with the total population. Additionally, Ki-67 index and tumor size were transformed into categorical variables for adjusting models. The testing set was used to assess the discrimination and calibration of models and the optimal models were visualized as nomograms. Clinical characteristics and MFS were compared between patients with and without risk factors.

RESULTS

A total of 198 patients with 59 cases of metastasis were included and classified into the training set (n = 138) and testing set (n = 60). Among all models, the logistic regression model showed the best discrimination for metastasis prediction with an AUC of 0.891 (95% CI, 0.793-0.990), integrating SDHB germline mutations [OR: 96.72 (95% CI, 16.61-940.79)], S-100 (-) [OR: 11.22 (95% CI, 3.04-58.51)], ATRX (-) [OR: 8.42 (95% CI, 2.73-29.24)] and Ki-67 ≥ 3% [OR: 7.98 (95% CI, 2.27-32.24)] evaluated through immunohistochemistry (IHC), and tumor size ≥ 5 cm [OR: 4.59 (95% CI, 1.34-19.13)]. The multivariate Cox model including the above risk factors also showed a high C-index of 0.860 (95% CI, 0.810-0.911) in predicting MFS after surgery. Furthermore, patients with the above risk factors showed a significantly poorer MFS (P ≤ 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Models established in this study provided alternative and reliable tools for clinicians to predict PPGLs patients' metastasis and MFS. More importantly, this study revealed for the first time that IHC of ATRX could act as an independent predictor of metastasis in PPGLs.

The Impact of Testosterone on Alzheimer's Disease Are Mediated by Lipid Metabolism and Obesity: A Mendelian Randomization Study

BACKGROUND

To investigate the causal relationship between testosterone (BT) levels and Alzheimer's disease (AD) risk and to quantify the role of obesity and lipid metabolism as potential mediators.

METHODS

We used a two-sample, two-step MR to determine:1) the causal effect of BT levels on AD; 2) the causal effect of two lipid metabolites, obesity and LDLc on AD; and 3) the mediating effects of these metabolites. Pooled data for BT levels and lipid metabolism were obtained from the UK Biobank. AD data were obtained from the Alzheimer's Disease Project International Genomics Consortium, FinnGen Consortium, and UK Biobank study. Effect estimates from external genome-wide association study (GWAS) pooled statistics were obtained using inverse variance-weighted (IVW) MR analysis.

RESULTS

Higher levels of BT were associated with a reduced risk of AD (odds ratio [OR] 0.9992, 95% CI 0.9985-0.9998, P = 0.019), and there was a negative correlation with LDLc (OR 0.9208, 95% CI 0.8569-0.9895, P = 0.024) and obesity class 2 (OC2) (OR 0.7445, 95% CI 0.5873-0.9437, P = 0.014). Conversely, there was a positive correlation between LDLc (OR 1.0014, 95% CI 1.0000-1.0029, P = 0.043) and OC2 (OR 1.0005, 95% CI 1.0001-1.0009, P = 0.003) and AD. Mediation analysis showed that the indirect effect of BT levels on AD was achieved through LDLc and OC2, which accounted for 17% and 17% of the total effect, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Our study identified a causal role of BT levels in LDLc and OC2. BT levels may affect AD through LDLc and OC2 metabolic processes.

Mendelian Randomization Analysis Reveals Causal Factors behind Alzheimer's Disease Risk: Evidence, Opportunities, and Challenges

Alzheimer's disease and its comorbidities pose a heavy disease burden globally, and its treatment remains a major challenge. Identifying the protective and risk factors for Alzheimer's disease, as well as its possible underlying molecular processes, can facilitate the development of interventions that can slow its progression. Observational studies and randomized controlled trials have provided some evidence regarding potential risk factors for Alzheimer's disease; however, the results of these studies vary. Mendelian randomization is a novel epidemiological methodology primarily used to infer causal relationships between exposures and outcomes. Many Mendelian randomization studies have identified potential causal relationships between Alzheimer's disease and certain diseases, lifestyle habits, and biological exposures, thus providing valuable data for further mechanistic studies and the development and implementation of clinical prevention strategies. However, the results and data from Mendelian randomization studies must be interpreted based on comprehensive evidence. Moreover, the existing Mendelian randomization studies on the epidemiology of Alzheimer's disease have some limitations that are worth exploring. Therefore, the aim of this review was to summarize the available evidence on the potential protective and risk factors for Alzheimer's disease by assessing published Mendelian randomization studies on Alzheimer's disease, and to provide new perspectives on the etiology of Alzheimer's disease.

Causal association between aspirin use and risk of endometrioid carcinoma: a Mendelian randomization study

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to investigate the causal relationship between aspirin use and the risk of endometrial endometrioid cancer (EEC) using two-sample Mendelian randomization (TSMR) and multivariable Mendelian randomization (MVMR) study.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A TSMR analysis was conducted to estimate the potential causal relationship between aspirin use and the risk of EEC using genome-wide data from Genome-wide association study (GWAS). The causal association between aspirin use and EEC was further analyzed by MVMR analysis after adjusting for various factors such as obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and infertility. The single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data associated with aspirin use and EEC was obtained from the GWAS catalog database.

RESULTS

A total of six SNPs were included as instrumental variables in TSMR, which showed that taking aspirin reduced the risk of EEC [OR = 0.02, 95% CI = 0-0.28, p = 0.005, inverse variance weighted (IVW) method]. Besides, the results of the weighted median (WME) method, weighted mode, and simple mode were consistent with the results shown by the IVW method. After further using the MVMR method, the causal association of aspirin use and prevention of EEC onset remained significant after adjusting for the effects of obesity, hypertension, and diabetes (OR = 0.076, 95% CI = 0.007-0.793, p = 0.031). Sensitivity analyses, including heterogeneity, horizontal multiplicity, and leave-one-out tests, showed the reliability of the instrumental variables, proving that the results were reliable and not significantly biased.

CONCLUSIONS

Taking aspirin can reduce the risk of EEC morbidity, and it is expected to be of great significance for the early prevention and treatment of endometrial cancer by exploring the biological mechanism of aspirin on endometrioid cancer at a deeper level.

Exosome enriched leucine-rich alpha-2-glycoprotein-1 and extracellular matrix protein 1 proteins induce abnormal placental angiogenesis in pregnant mice

INTRODUCTION

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is characterized by a high risk of fetal macrosomia and placenta hypervascularization. Exosomes has been known participating in various physiological and pathological processes, including pro-angiogenic function. However, the effects of umbilical cord blood derived exosomes from cases of GDM (GDM-exo) on placental vascular network formation remain unclear.

METHODS

In the current study, we isolated and identified exosomes in umbilical cord blood from both normal (N-exo) and GDM pregnancies. Meanwhile, we investigated the effects of umbilical cord blood derived exosomes on placental angiogenesis both in vitro and in vivo.

RESULTS

Our data indicated that in a mouse model, the placenta and fetus weight were significantly higher in the ones administrated with GDM-exo when compared with N-exo. Meanwhile, GDM-exo significantly enhanced placental endothelial cells functions in both HUVEC and HPMEC endothelial cell models. Importantly, we explored two up-regulated proteins in GDM-exo, namely leucine-rich alpha-2-glycoprotein-1 (LRG1) and extracellular matrix protein 1 (ECM1) by proteome analysis, which performed largely pro-angiogenic function and probably resulted in hypervascularization in GDM placenta.

DISCUSSION

Thus, we proposed that abundant LRG1 and ECM1 enriched GDM-exo may take important roles in regulating pathological placental angiogenesis.

[Protective effect of recombinant Schistosoma japonicum cystatin against acute kidney injury associated with acute liver failure in mice]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the protective effect of recombinant Schistosoma japonicum cystatin (rSj-Cys) against acute kidney injury induced by acute liver failure and unravel the underlying mechanism, so as to provide insights into the clinical therapy of acute kidney injury.

METHODS

Twenty-four male C57BL/6J mice at ages of 6 to 8 weeks were randomly divided into the normal control group, rSj-Cys control group, lipopolysaccharide (LPS)/D-galactosamine (D-GaIN) model group and LPS/D-GaIN + rSj-Cys treatment group, of 6 mice each group. Mice in the LPS/D-GaIN group and LPS/D-GaIN + rSj-Cys group were intraperitoneally injected with LPS (10 μg/kg) and D-GaIN (700 mg/kg), and mice in the LPS/D-GaIN + rSj-Cys group were additionally administered with rSj-Cys (1.25 mg/kg) by intraperitoneal injection 30 min post-modeling, while mice in the rSj-Cys group were intraperitoneally injected with rSj-Cys (1.25 mg/kg), and mice in the normal control group were injected with the normal volume of PBS. All mice were sacrificed 6 h post-modeling, and mouse serum and kidney samples were collected. Serum creatinine (Cr) and urea nitrogen (BUN) levels were measured, and the pathological changes of mouse kidney specimens were examined using hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. Serum tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-6 levels were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and the expression of inflammatory factors and pyroptosis-related proteins was quantified in mouse kidney specimens using immunohistochemistry. In addition, the expression of pyroptosis-related proteins and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway-associated proteins was determined in mouse kidney specimens using Western blotting assay.

RESULTS

HE staining showed no remarkable abnormality in the mouse kidney structure in the normal control group and the rSj-Cys control group, and renal tubular injury was found in LPS/D-GaIN group, while the renal tubular injury was alleviated in LPS/D-GaIN+rSj-Cys treatment group. There were significant differences in serum levels of Cr (F = 46.33, P < 0.001), BUN (F = 128.60, P < 0.001), TNF-α (F = 102.00, P < 0.001) and IL-6 (F = 202.10, P < 0.001) among the four groups, and lower serum Cr [(85.35 ± 32.05) μmol/L], BUN [(11.90 ± 2.76) mmol/L], TNF-α [(158.27 ± 15.83) pg/mL] and IL-6 levels [(56.72 ± 4.37) pg/mL] were detected in the in LPS/D-GaIN + rSj-Cys group than in the LPS/D-GaIN group (all P values < 0.01). Immunohistochemical staining detected significant differences in TNF-α (F = 24.16, P < 0.001) and IL-10 (F = 15.07, P < 0.01) expression among the four groups, and lower TNF-α [(106.50 ± 16.57)%] and higher IL-10 expression [(91.83 ± 5.23)%] was detected in the LPS/D-GaIN + rSj-Cys group than in the LPS/D-GaIN group (both P values < 0.01). Western blotting and immunohistochemistry detected significant differences in the protein expression of pyroptosis-related proteins NOD-like receptor thermal protein domain associated protein 3 (NLRP3) (F = 24.57 and 30.72, both P values < 0.001), IL-1β (F = 19.24 and 22.59, both P values < 0.001) and IL-18 (F = 16.60 and 19.30, both P values < 0.001) in kidney samples among the four groups, and lower NLRP3, IL-1β and IL-18 expression was quantified in the LPS/D-GaIN + rSj-Cys treatment group than in the LPS/D-GaIN group (P values < 0.05). In addition, there were significant differences in the protein expression of NF-κB signaling pathway-associated proteins p-NF-κB p-P65/NF-κB p65 (F = 71.88, P < 0.001), Toll-like receptor (TLR)-4 (F = 45.49, P < 0.001) and p-IκB/IκB (F = 60.87, P < 0.001) in mouse kidney samples among the four groups, and lower expression of three NF-κB signaling pathway-associated proteins was determined in the LPS/D-GaIN + rSj-Cys treatment group than in the LPS/D-GaIN group (all P values < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

rSj-Cys may present a protective effect against acute kidney injury caused by acute liver failure through inhibiting inflammation and pyroptosis and downregulating the NF-κB signaling pathway.

Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell derived exosomes (HUCMSC-exos) recovery soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1)-induced endothelial dysfunction in preeclampsia

BACKGROUND

Preeclampsia is a unique multisystem disorder that affects 5-8% of pregnancies. A high level of soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) is a hallmark of preeclampsia that causes endothelial dysfunction. Exosomes derived from mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been indicated to improve endothelial performances by transporting signals to target cells. We hypothesized that exosomes derived from MSCs have potential effects against preeclampsia.

METHODS

We collected human umbilical cord MSC-derived exosomes (HUCMSC-exos) by ultracentrifugation. The size and morphology of the exosomes were examined using a transmission electron microscope and nanoparticle tracking analysis. Pregnant mice were injected with murine sFlt-1 adenovirus to build the preeclampsia-like mouse model and then treated with HUCMSC-exos. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were infected with lentiviruses expressing tet-on-sFlt-1 to obtain cells overexpressing sFlt-1. Cell proliferation and migration assays were used to measure the endothelial functions. The exosomes enriched proteins underlying mechanisms were explored by proteomic analysis.

RESULTS

In the current study, we successfully collected the cup-shaped HUCMSC-exos with diameters of 30-150 nm. In the sFlt-1-induced preeclampsia mouse model, HUCMSC-exos exhibited beneficial effects on adverse birth events by decreasing blood pressure and improving fetal birth weight. In addition, preeclamptic dams that were injected with HUCMSC-exos had rebuilt dense placental vascular networks. Furthermore, we observed that HUCMSC-exos partially rescued sFlt-1-induced HUVECs dysfunction in vitro. Proteomics analysis of HUCMSC-exos displayed functional enrichment in biological processes related to vesicle-mediated transport, cell communication, cell migration, and angiogenesis.

CONCLUSION

We propose that exosomes derived from HUCMSCs contain abundant Versican and play beneficial roles in the birth outcomes of sFlt-1-induced preeclamptic mice by promoting angiogenesis.

Improving the solubility of pseudo-hydrophobic Alzheimer's Disease medicinal chemicals through co-crystal formulation

Natural products are ligands and potential inhibitors of Alzheimer's disease (AD) tau. Dihydromyricetin (DHM) is a CNS active natural product. Despite having signature polyphenolic character, DHM is ostensibly hydrophobic owing to intermolecular hydrogen bonds that shield hydrophilic phenols. Our research shows DHM becomes ionized at near-neutral pH allowing formulation of salts with transformed solubility. The MicroED co-crystal structure with trolamine reveals DHM salts as metastable solids with unlocked hydrogen bonding and a thermodynamic bent to solubilize in water. All salt formulations show better inhibitory activity against AD tau than the non-salt form, with efficacies correlating to enhanced solubilities. These results underscore the role of structural chemistry in guiding selection of solubilizing agents for chemical formulation. We propose DHM salts are appropriate formulations for research as dietary supplements to promote healthy aging by combating protein misfolding. Additionally, DHM is a suitable lead for medicinal chemistry and possible development of CNS pharmaceuticals.

Effects of prenatal exposure to THC on hippocampal neural development in offspring

Cannabis use is a worldwide issue with the development of legalization. Prenatal exposure to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive component of cannabis, is related to affect fetal nervous system development. In our present study, we administered THC to pregnant mice from gestational day 5.5-12.5. Differences in neuronal cell composition and organization between the two groups were found by staining sections of the offspring hippocampus at PND21. In addition, RNA-seq of hippocampal tissue also suggested differences in gene expression due to THC treatment, especially significant enrichment to neurogenesis and neural differentiation. Subsequently, the effect of THC treatment on the proliferation and differentiation capacity of neural stem cells (NSCs) was confirmed. Based on the RNA-seq results, we selected the differentially expressed transcription factor MEF2C for validation. The effect of THC treatment on NSCs differentiation was found to be regulated by knocking down the expression of MEF2C in NSCs. Considering that THC is an agonist of cannabinoid receptor (CB1R), the differentiation outcome of NSC after THC treatment was significantly rescued, by pretreating with the CB1R inhibitor Rimonabant. Notably, pretreatment with Rimonabant restored the expression of MEF2C. Taken together, the present results suggested that THC regulated the MEF2C pathway through CB1R and had an impact on hippocampal neurodevelopment.

Alterations in maternal plasma exosomal miRNAs revealed selective material exchange between maternal circulation and placenta

AIM

Exosomes have emerged as important regulators in the communication between maternal peripheral blood and placenta. We aimed to compare maternal plasma exosomal miRNAs profile between healthy pregnant and nonpregnant women, screen for differential expressed miRNAs and their potential regulatory role during pregnancy.

METHODS

We isolated exosomes from plasma of mid-trimester, last trimester, and nonpregnant women (n = 6 each group), analyzed the miRNA profile using next-generation sequencing.

RESULTS

Several miRNA clusters were expressed in plasma exosomes, such as C19MC, C14MC, and let-7 family, miRNAs in each cluster may have synergistic effect during pregnancy. We assumed maternal circulating exosomal miRNA could be transported into placenta or selectively uptook by placenta, which was consistent with the fact that many pregnancy-associated or placenta highly expressed miRNAs reduced in exosomes during pregnancy. Some exosomal miRNAs were mainly secreted by the placenta, which could act as markers that reflect changes in the function and microenvironment of the placenta.

CONCLUSIONS

Exosomal miRNAs are associated with placenta development and have potential as molecular markers.

The gene LpBCP increased NaHCO3 resistance by enhancing lignin or ROS scavenging in the Nicotiana benthamiana

Lilium pumilum is an excellent wildflower germplasm resource with high resistance to salinity stress. The gene LpBCP plays an important role in salinity tolerance of L. pumilum. Studying the molecular mechanism of salinity resistance in L. pumilum will provide insights into multiple aspects, including breeding better varieties, environmental protection, improving soil conditions, etc. Conventional methods were used to determine different physiological indicators of Nicotiana benthamiana after NaHCO₃ treatment, i.e. chlorophyll content, soluble phenol content and lignin content. RT-qPCR was carried out to find expression of LpBCP in different organs and under abiotic stresses. DAB was used to detect H₂ O₂ in leaves in situ. A yeast two-hybrid system was used to screen for LpBCP interacting proteins. LpBCP was cloned from bulbs of L. pumilum. The highest expression of LpBCP was in roots and bulbs of transgenic plants. LpBCP-overexpressed plants showed less wilting, compared to WT plants. LpBCP transgenic plants have higher chlorophyll, soluble phenol and lignin content, and lower relative conductivity under 500 mM NaHCO₃ stress. In addition, H₂ O₂ scavenging in transgenic plants was much improved, indicating increased resistance to NaHCO₃ stress. Thirteen LpBCP-interacting proteins were screened using the yeast two-hybrid method and five were associated with salt stress. Based on our findings, LPBCP could be a key gene that can be used to improve L. pumilum salt tolerance.

[Fucoxanthin induces prostate cancer PC-3 cell apoptosis by causing mitochondria dysfunction and oxidative stress]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the apoptosis- inducing effect of fucoxanthin in human prostate cancer PC-3 cells and the underlying mechanism.

OBJECTIVE

The viability and apoptosis of PC-3 cells treated with fucoxanthin were analyzed using commercial kits, and the mitochondrial membrane potential, mitochondrial morphology and mitochondrial superoxide were detected using fluorescence probe staining. The contents of ATP, H₂O₂, malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide and the total antioxidant capacity of PC-3 cells were determined. The protein expressions of Bcl-2, Bax and cytochrome c were detected with Western blotting, and the activity of caspase-9 and caspase- 3/7 was detected using corresponding kits.

OBJECTIVE

Fucoxanthin significantly inhibited the viability of PC-3 cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner, and dose-dependently induced apoptosis of the cells (P < 0.05). Fucoxanthin-treated PC-3 cells showed significantly decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, mitochondrial fragmentation and increased superoxide level in the mitochondria (P < 0.05), and these effects of fucoxanthin were dose- dependent. Fucoxanthin dose-dependently decreased ATP level and the total antioxidant capacity of PC-3 cells, increased the contents of H₂O₂, MDA and superoxide (all P < 0.05), enhanced the protein expressions of Bax and cytochrome c in the cytoplasm, and lowered the protein expressions of Bcl-2 and cytochromes in the mitochondria (P < 0.05).

OBJECTIVE

Fucoxanthin induces apoptosis of PC-3 cells by triggering mitochondrial dysfunction to cause oxidative stress and by activating mitochondria-mediated apoptotic signaling pathways, suggesting its potential in prostate cancer treatment.

Integrating Narcissus-derived galanthamine production into traditional upland farming systems

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a disorder associated with progressive degeneration of memory and cognitive function. Galantamine is a licenced treatment for AD but supplies of the plant alkaloid that it is produced from, galanthamine, are limited. This three-year system study tested the potential to combine Narcissus-derived galanthamine production with grassland-based ruminant production. Replicate plots of permanent pasture were prepared with and without bulbs of Narcissus pseudonarcissus sown as lines into the sward. Two different fertiliser regimes were imposed. The above-ground green biomass of N. pseudonarcissus was harvested in early spring and the galanthamine yield determined. In the second harvest year a split-plot design was implemented with lines of N. pseudonarcissus cut annually and biennially. All plots were subsequently grazed by ewes and lambs and animal performance recorded. Incorporation of N. pseudonarcissus into grazed permanent pasture had no detrimental effects on the health or performance of the sheep which subsequently grazed the pasture. There was no consistency to the effects of fertiliser rates on galanthamine yields. There was no difference in overall galanthamine yield if N. pseudonarcissus was cut biennially (1.64 vs. 1.75 kg galanthamine/ha for annual combined vs biennial cuts respectively; s.e.d = 0.117 kg galanthamine/ha; ns). This study verified the feasibility of a dual cropping approach to producing plant-derived galanthamine.

[Application of autologous platelet-rich plasma separation in cardiac valve replacement: a random clinical trial]

Objective: To examine the blood protective effect of autologous platelet-rich plasma separation for cardiac valve replacement under cardiopulmonary bypass. Methods: Sixty patients who underwent cardiac valve replacement under cardiopulmonary bypass from August 2018 to May 2019 in Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University were randomly divided into control and treatment groups(each 30 cases). There were 33 males and 27 females, aged (52.0±8.4) years (range: 35 to 65 years). Autologous platelet separation was performed in the treatment group after anaesthesia administration and was completed before systemic heparinisation. Platelet separation was not performed in the control group. The thromboelastogram, blood routine, blood coagulation, perioperative fluid infusion, allogeneic blood transfusion, postoperative pleural fluid volume and postoperative fibrinogen were recorded before the operation, and 1 hour and 24 hours post operation. The two groups' data was compared by t test, Kruskal-Wallis test, Mann-Whitney U test or χ(2) test. Repeated measurement analysis of variance was used to compare platelet and coagulation indexes at different times. Results: The perioperative red blood cell transfusion of 0, 1~2, 3~4,>4 units with 6, 11, 1, 12 cases in treatment group and 14, 8, 6, 2 cases in control group (Z=-2.516, P=0.012). The postoperative fibrinogen of 0, 1, 2 units with 19, 2, 9 cases in treat group and 26, 2, 2 cases in control group (Z=-2.190, P=0.029). There was no significant difference in the cost of blood transfusion between the two groups during admission ((1 732±1 275) yuan vs. (1 176±941) yuan; t=-1.570, P=0.125). Conclusion: The use of autologous platelet-rich plasma separation can reduce the amount of allogeneic blood transfusion during valvular surgery under cardiopulmonary bypass.

Understanding the electric and nonelectric field components of the cation effect on the electrochemical CO reduction reaction

Electrolyte cations affect the activity of surface-mediated electrocatalytic reactions; however, understanding the modes of interaction between cations and reaction intermediates remains lacking. We show that larger alkali metal cations (excluding the thickness of the hydration shell) promote the electrochemical CO reduction reaction on polycrystalline Cu surfaces in alkaline electrolytes. Combined reactivity and in situ surface-enhanced spectroscopic investigations show that changes to the interfacial electric field strength cannot solely explain the reactivity trend with cation size, suggesting the presence of a nonelectric field strength component in the cation effect. Spectroscopic investigations with cation chelating agents and organic molecules show that the electric and nonelectric field components of the cation effect could be affected by both cation identity and composition of the electrochemical interface. The interdependent nature of interfacial species indicates that the cation effect should be considered an integral part of the broader effect of composition and structure of the electrochemical interface on electrode-mediated reactions.

Propranolol regulates ERK1/2 signaling pathway and promotes chronic wound healing in diabetic rats

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate if propranolol could regulate ERK1/2 signaling pathway and promote chronic wound healing in diabetic rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-two rats were used to establish a diabetic chronic wound animal model. They were randomly separated into two groups: the propranolol group and the control group. The propranolol group was treated with propranolol ointment and the control group was treated with propranolol matrix cream to cover the wound surface. The expression of the p-ERK1/2 protein was detected by the Western Blot. RT-qPCR was used to detect the expression of VEGF. The concentrations of IL-6 and TNF-α were detected by ELISA.

RESULTS

The body weight of rats was significantly reduced after type 2 diabetes mellitus modeling. The healing rate of rats in the control group was significantly lower than that in the propranolol group (p<0.05). There was a significant increase in the expression of the p-ERK1/2 protein in the wound tissue of the propranolol group compared with that in the control group, except for the 11th day (p<0.05). The relative expression of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) in the propranolol group was significantly higher than that in the control group on the 2nd day (p<0.05), while the relative expression of VEGF in the propranolol group was significantly increased on the 11th day after modeling (p<0.05). On the 20th day, the expressions of IL-6 and TNF-α in the propranolol group were significantly higher than those in the control group, and there were significant differences (p<0.05). It was found that the IL-6 and TNF-α expressions in the propranolol group reached the peak on the 11th day and then gradually decreased (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicated that propranolol can accelerate the healing of diabetic wounds by regulating the expression of VEGF by phosphorylation of ERK1/2 protein, thus promoting chronic wound healing in diabetes.

Influence of roflumilast on sepsis mice through the JAK/STAT signaling pathway

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to explore the influence of roflumilast on sepsis mice through the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling pathway.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 36 Sprague-Dawley mice were randomly divided into normal group (n=12), model group (n=12) and roflumilast group (n=12). Mice in the normal group were fed normally. However, mice in the model group and roflumilast group were intraperitoneally injected with endotoxin to establish the sepsis mouse model. Furthermore, mice in the model group and roflumilast group were intraperitoneally injected with 0.9% sodium chloride and roflumilast once a day, respectively. After 7 d of intervention, mice were sampled. Lung tissue morphology was observed via hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, and the pathological score was given. The protein expression levels of JAK and STAT-3 were detected via Western blotting. The expression levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were detected via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Meanwhile, the mRNA expression levels of JAK, STAT-3, IL-6 and TNF-α were detected via quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR). The number of inflammatory cells in the lavage fluid was counted by a biochemical detector.

RESULTS

The survival rate of mice in the roflumilast group was significantly higher than that of the model group (p<0.05). The results of HE staining revealed that lung tissue morphology in roflumilast group was significantly improved when compared with the model group. Meanwhile, the pathological score in the roflumilast group was significantly lower than that of the model group (p<0.05). Western blotting showed that the protein expression levels of JAK and STAT-3 in the roflumilast group were markedly lower than those of the model group (p<0.05). According to the results of ELISA, the expression levels of IL-6 and TNF-α in the roflumilast group were remarkably lower than the model group (p<0.05). Further qPCR results manifested that the mRNA expression levels of JAK, STAT-3, IL-6 and TNF-α in the roflumilast group were significantly lower than those of the model group (p<0.05). Moreover, the number of neutrophils, monocytes and lymphocytes in the roflumilast group was significantly smaller than the model group.

CONCLUSIONS

Roflumilast can improve lung tissue morphology of sepsis mice by inhibiting the JAK/STAT signaling pathway.

Rapid isolation of non-aflatoxigenic Aspergillus flavus strains

In the present study, a method for screening non-aflatoxigenic Aspergillus flavus in soil samples collected from major peanut-growing regions of China was developed. The single colonies were picked and cultured on Aspergillus flavus and parasiticus agar (AFPA). If the reverse side of the colony on AFPA was orange-coloured, it was considered A. flavus or Aspergillus parasiticus. After the genomic DNA of each strain was extracted, 28S rRNA and calmodulin were amplified and sequenced to determine the species. The key gene, aflR, was amplified and digested via polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism. The aflatoxigenic A. flavus and the non-aflatoxigenic A. flavus and A. parasiticus were distinguished by enzyme digestion of aflR. 156 strains of A. flavus were screened, which consisted of 135 aflatoxigenic and 21 non-aflatoxigenic strains. The aflatoxin producing ability of each strain was confirmed using solid-state fermentation experiments. Using the method developed in the present study, we confirmed that the non-aflatoxigenic A. flavus strains isolated lost their capacity to produce aflatoxins. Considering there could be some alterations in other functional genes, some non-aflatoxigenic strains could be identified inaccurately as aflatoxigenic strains, although that did not occur in the present study. The growth of non-aflatoxigenic A. flavus was observed, and the most rapidly growing non-aflatoxigenic strain was selected for plate confrontation assays and toxic mixed culture experiments. The inhibition rate of non-aflatoxigenic A. flavus against aflatoxigenic A. flavus was 55.4 and 72.6% in potato dextrose agar (PDA) plate and natural soybean medium, respectively. The screened non-aflatoxigenic A. flavus strains provide a microbial resource for biological control of aflatoxin contamination.

S100-A9 protein in exosomes derived from follicular fluid promotes inflammation via activation of NF-κB pathway in polycystic ovary syndrome

Exosomes have recently emerged as key mediators of different physiological and pathological processes. However, there has been few report about proteomic analysis of exosomes derived from human follicular fluid and their association with the occurrence of PCOS. Herein, we used TMT‐tagged quantitative proteomic approach to identify proteomic profiles in exosomes derived from follicular fluid of PCOS patients and healthy controls. We identified 662 proteins in exosomes derived from human ovarian follicular fluid. Eighty‐six differently expressed proteins (P < .05) were found between PCOS and healthy women. The alterations in the proteomic profile were related to the inflammation process, reactive oxygen species metabolic process, cell migration and proliferation. Importantly, we observed that follicular fluid exosomes contain S100 calcium‐binding protein A9 (S100‐A9) protein. Exosome‐enriched S100‐A9 significantly enhanced inflammation and disrupted steroidogenesis via activation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) signalling pathway. These data demonstrate that exosomal proteins are differentially expressed in follicular fluid during disease process, and some proteins may play important roles in the regulation of granulosa cell function. These results highlight the importance of exosomes as extracellular communicators in ovarian follicular development.

Downregulation of kynureninase restrains cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma proliferation and represses the PI3K/AKT pathway

BACKGROUND

The protein kynureninase (KYNU) has recently been reported to participate in the pathological processes of various diseases.

AIM

To explore the expression and the biological function of KYNU in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC).

METHODS

Expression of KYNU in cSCC cell lines and tissues was firstly evaluated based on the Gene Expression Omnibus and the Oncomine databases. Quantitative reverse transcription-PCR was performed to determine the mRNA expression of KYNU in cSCC cell lines. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) was used for silencing KYNU. The effect of KYNU on the growth and motility of cSCC cells was determined by cell counting kit-8, wound-healing and Transwell assays, and western blotting was used to determine the protein expression of KYNU, AKT, phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), phosphorylated (p)-AKT and p-PI3K.

RESULTS

KYNU was significantly upregulated in cSCC tissues and cell lines. Knockdown of KYNU using siRNA noticeably suppressed the proliferation, migration and invasion ability of SCL-1 cells (P < 0.01). Western blotting revealed that phosphorylation of AKT and PI3K was markedly inhibited after silencing KYNU. The ratios of p-AKT/AKT and p-PI3K/PI3K were significantly decreased in the si-KYNU group compared with the control group.

CONCLUSION

Depletion of KYNU could inhibit the growth of cSCC cells, possibly through modulating PI3K/AKT pathway. These data indicate that KYNU takes a key part in the malignant progression of cSCC, and could be considered as a promising therapeutic target for cSCC treatment.

Exosomes From Women With Preeclampsia Induced Vascular Dysfunction by Delivering sFlt (Soluble Fms-Like Tyrosine Kinase)-1 and sEng (Soluble Endoglin) to Endothelial Cells

Preeclampsia is a unique multiple system disorder that affects 5% to 8% of pregnancies. Exosomes, membrane-encapsulated vesicles that are released into the extracellular environment by many cell types, can carry signals to the recipient cells to affect inflammation, apoptosis, and angiogenesis. We hypothesize that exosomes from women with preeclampsia complications impair vascular development by delivering antiangiogenic factors to endothelial cells. In the current study, plasma samples from gestational age-matched preeclampsia and normal pregnancies were used to isolate circulating exosomes by commercial kits. Next, application of transwell and matrigel tube formation assays showed that exosomes from preeclampsia patients impaired angiogenesis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells. We found that exosomes from preeclampsia expressed abundant sFlt-1 (soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1) and sEng (soluble endoglin). Considering the possibility that extracellular sFlt and sEng were horizontally transferred to human umbilical vein endothelial cells, we successfully collected exosomes containing high levels of sFlt-1 and sEng by overexpressing them in human embryonic kidney 293 cells. Furthermore, we demonstrated that these exosomes can attenuate the proliferation, migration, and tube formation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells in vitro. In a mouse model, exosomes from preeclampsia patients caused vascular dysfunction directly resulted in adverse preeclampsia-like birth outcomes. Thus, we proposed that exosomes mediated efficient transfer of sFlt-1 and sEng to endothelial cells to damage vascular functions and induce complications in preeclampsia patients.

Prevalence and Risk Factors for Frailty among Community-Dwelling Older People in China: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE

To systematically assess the prevalence of frailty, including prefrailty, stratified prevalence according to frailty criteria, gender, age, and region, and the risk factors for frailty in China.

DESIGN

We conducted a systematic literature review and meta-analysis using articles available in 8 databases including PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CINAHL Plus, China Knowledge Resource Integrated Database (CNKI), Wanfang Database, Chinese Biomedical Database (CBM), and Weipu Database (VIP).

SETTING

Cross-sectional and cohort data from Chinese community.

PARTICIPANTS

Community-dwelling adults aged 65 and older.

MEASUREMENTS

Two authors independently extracted data based upon predefined criteria. Where data were available we conducted a meta-analysis of frailty parameters using a random-effects model.

RESULTS

We screened 915 different articles, and 14 studies (81258 participants) were ultimately included in this analysis. The prevalence of frailty and prefrailty in individual studies varied from 5.9% to 17.4% and from 26.8% to 62.8%, respectively. The pooled prevalence of frailty and prefrailty were 10% (95% CI: 8% to 12%, I2 = 97.4%, P = 0.000) and 43% (95% CI: 37% to 50%, I2 = 98.0%, P = 0.000), respectively. The pooled frailty prevalence was 8% for the Fried frailty phenotype, 12% for the frail index, and 15% for the FRAIL scale. Age-stratified meta-analyses showed the pooled prevalence of frailty to be 6%, 15%, and 25% for those aged 65-74, 75-84, and ≥85 years old, respectively. The pooled prevalence of frailty was 8% for males and 11% for females. The pooled prevalence of frailty in Mainland China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong was 12%, 8%, and 14%, respectively. The pooled frailty prevalence was 10% in urban areas and 7% in rural areas. After controlling for confounding variables, increasing age (OR = 1.28, 95% CI: 1.2 to 1.36, I2 = 98.0%, P = 0.000), being female (OR = 1.29, 95% CI: 1.16 to 1.43, I2 =92.7%, P=0.000), activities of daily living (ADL) disability (OR = 1.72, 95% CI: 1.57 to 1.90, I2 = 99.7%, P = 0.000), and having three or more chronic diseases (OR = 1.97, 95% CI: 1.78 to 2.18, I2 = 97.5%, P = 0.000) were associated with frailty.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings of this review indicate an overall pooled prevalence of frailty among Chinese community-dwelling older people of 10%. Increasing age, being female, ADL disability, and having three or more chronic diseases were all risk factors for frailty. Further research will be needed to identify additional frailty risk factors in order to better treat and prevent frailty in the community.

Evaluation of androgen assay results using a curated Hershberger database

A set of 39 reference chemicals with reproducible androgen pathway effects in vivo, identified in the companion manuscript [1], were used to interrogate the performance of the ToxCast/Tox 21 androgen receptor (AR) model based on 11 high throughput assays. Cytotoxicity data and specificity confirmation assays were used to distinguish assay loss-of-function from true antagonistic signaling suppression. Overall agreement was 66% (19/29), with ten additional inconclusive chemicals. Most discrepancies were explained using in vitro to in vivo extrapolation to estimate equivalent administered doses. The AR model had 100% positive predictive value for the in vivo response, i.e. there were no false positives, and chemicals with conclusive AR model results (agonist or antagonist) were consistently positive in vivo. Considering the lack of reproducibility of the in vivo Hershberger assay, the in vitro AR model may better predict specific AR interaction and can rapidly and cost-effectively screen thousands of chemicals without using animals.

[Analysis of blood flow energy characteristics of pulsatile and non-pulsatile flow during extracorporeal circulation]

Objective: To analyze the magnitude of blood flow energy and characteristics of frequency domain between pulsatile flow and nonpulsatile flow during cardiopulmonary bypass and physiological flow. Methods: From January 2017 to December 2017, 60 cases of patients with mitral valve disease scheduled for mitral valve replacement or repair at Department of Cardiasurgery, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University were randomly divided into 2 groups: pulsatile perfusion (PP) and non-pulsatile perfusion (NP). The magnitude of blood flow energy during pulsatile and non-pulsatile was calculated using energy equivalent pressure (EEP) and surplus hemodynamic energy (SHE) while fast Fourier transformation (FFT) was used to perform power spectral density analysis to identify the frequency domain characteristics between artificial and physiological flow (prior to CPB). The data was analyzed by analysis of variance or t test. Results: At the different time-points after occlusion, the EEP and SHE in PP group were respectively 1.52 to 1.62 and 2.03 to 2.22 times higher than NP at the distal of artery filter. The power density analysis revealed that the blood flow energy of physiological pulsatile flow patterns was within 40 Hz and the ratio of low frequency energy was more than 90% before clamp. The spectral energy ratio of low frequency decreased in both group compared with physiological flow was more obvious in NP group at the radial artery. The ratio of estimated value of power density of PP and NP groups analysis showed the corresponding 0 to 5 Hz, 0 to 10 Hz, 0 to 40 Hz frequency range values measured at the radial artery and filter were 9.51, 4.68, 3.59 and 3.87, 2.69, 2.38 respectively after occulusion. In each frequency range, the energy of PP is higher than that of NP, and the lower the frequency, the greater the difference. The ratio of estimated value of power density of PP and NP groups for the three frequencies measured at the radial artery before and after occlusion were 2.86, 2.83, 2.75 and 14.70, 12.74, 9.85 respectively, and decreased significantly in NP group and low frequency energy. The ratio of estimated value of power density of PP and NP groups under the three different frequencies measured at the radial artery and filter were 26.35, 33.15, 37.36 and 37.41, 54.18, 56.64 respectively, in the conduction process from filter to radial artery, energy exhaustion is significant, especially in group NP. Conclusions: The PP provides significantly more energy than the NP whereby the PP is closer to the physiological pulsatile on the energy frequency structure and attenuation characteristics, with mainly low frequency energy of 0 to 5 Hz and weak energy attenuation. The energy loss of non-pulsatile flow is obvious, especially the low frequency energy.

Genetic and clinical findings in a Chinese cohort of patients with collagen VI-related myopathies

Collagen VI-related myopathy, caused by pathogenic variants in the genes encoding collagen VI, represents a clinical continuum from Ullrich congenital muscular dystrophy (UCMD) to Bethlem myopathy (BM). Clinical data of 60 probands and their family members were collected and muscle biopsies of 26 patients were analyzed. COL6A1, COL6A2 and COL6A3 exons were analyzed by direct sequencing or next generation sequencing (NGS). Sixty patients were characterized by delayed motor milestones, muscle weakness, skin and joint changes with 40 UCMD and 20 BM. Muscle with biopsies revealed dystrophic changes and showed completely deficiency of collagen VI or sarcolemma specific collagen VI deficiency. We identified 62 different pathogenic variants in these 60 patients, with 34 were first reported while 28 were previously known; 72 allelic pathogenic variants in COL6A1 (25/72, 34.7%), COL6A2 (33/72, 45.8%) and COL6A3 (14/72, 19.4%). We also found somatic mosaic variant in the parent of 1 proband by personal genome machine amplicon deep sequencing for mosaicism. Here we provide clinical, histological and genetic evidence of collagen VI-related myopathy in 60 Chinese patients. NGS is a valuable approach for diagnosis and accurate diagnosis provides useful information for genetic counseling of related families.

LIFR increases the release of soluble endoglin via the upregulation of MMP14 expression in preeclampsia

Preeclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy-specific disorder that is the main cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Inadequate trophoblastic invasion and endothelial dysfunction in the placenta are considered the foundation of the pathogenesis of preeclampsia in which soluble endoglin (sENG) plays an antiangiogenic role in the development of PE. The leukemia inhibitory factor receptor (LIFR) has been widely studied and is highly involved in arterial injury in vivo and in the migration of cancer cells in vitro Here, we tested the hypothesis that LIFR may be correlated with preeclampsia through its regulation of the release of sENG. Our data showed that LIFR protein, the expression of which significantly decreased with the progression of pregnancy, was located in the syncytiotrophoblast and cytotrophoblast. The LIFR protein level was increased in pregnancies with preeclampsia compared with normotensive full-term pregnancies. After the overexpression of LIFR in HTR8/SVneo cells, the release of sENG as well as the migration and invasion were significantly enhanced. Moreover, we also observed that LIFR induced the expression of matrix metalloproteinase14 (MMP14) and that the knockdown or inhibition of MMP14 decreased the release of sENG, as well as increased the LIFR-induced migration and invasion of HTR8/SVneo cells. These studies demonstrated that LIFR promoted the release of sENG through MMP14 in vitro, which indicates that LIFR may be involved in the development of preeclampsia.

RhoA/MLC signaling pathway is involved in Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol-impaired placental angiogenesis

Cannabis is a widely used illicit drug and its abuse during pregnancy has been related to adverse reproductive outcomes. In addition, placental angiogenesis is considered to be responsible for the transport of nutrients critical for placental development and fetal growth. The purpose of this study is to determine the effects of Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the major component of cannabis, on placental angiogenesis, involving endothelial cell (EC) proliferation, migration and tube formation. Here, we observe dramatic alterations in placental vascular network of cannabis users correlated with an impaired HUVE cell proliferation, migration and tube formation after treated with THC. Mechanistically, the activity of RhoA/MLC is involved in the THC-impaired EC migration and angiogenesis. To further analyze the role of cannabis in mice placental and embryonic development, we inject pregnant mice with THC daily. This treatment results in an altered placental microvasculature, accompanied by the decreased expression of CD31 and activity of RhoA/MLC. Taken together, these findings identify THC plays a pivotal role in impairing placental angiogenesis potentially via RhoA/MLC signaling nexus.

The Risks of Overweight, Obesity and Abdominal Obesity in Middle Age after Exposure to Famine in Early Life: Evidence from the China's 1959-1961 Famine

OBJECTIVE

Several studies have revealed that exposure to famine in early life was associated with higher body mass index(BMI) and waist circumference, and most of them used data from cross-sectional studies and defined those born before or after the famine period as non-exposed participants, which ignored the effects caused by age. Our objective was to study the effects of undernutrition in early life on overweight, obesity and abdominal obesity in those aged 54-56.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study with the status at age of 54-56 as outcomes. 1092 participants born between 1959 and 1961 from 2015 wave of China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) were defined as exposed and 1616 born between 1955 and 1957 from 2011 wave of CHARLS were defined as control. We used the prevalence odds ratios(ORs) to estimate the risks of overweight, obesity, abdominal obesity, and stratified by famine severity and sex separately for comparisons.

RESULTS

Exposed group had higher risks of overweight (OR 1.357, 95%CI 1.067,1.727) and obesity (OR 1.356, 95%CI 1.001,1.836) in women, not in men. Participants in exposed group were more likely to have abdominal obesity (OR 1.362, 95%CI 1.139,1.629), regardless of famine severity and gender.

CONCLUSION

Undernutrition in early life increased the risks of overweight and obesity in women not in men. And the risk of abdominal obesity was increased with the experience of undernutrition at early age both in men and women.

TXNDC5 contributes to rheumatoid arthritis by down-regulating IGFBP1 expression

The thioredoxin domain-containing 5 (TXNDC5) gene is associated with susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and exhibits increased expression in the synovial tissues. TXNDC5 is also associated strongly with diabetes, a metabolic disease characterized by interrupted insulin signalling. This study investigated whether TXNDC5 contributes to RA via the insulin signalling pathway. In this study, RA synovial fibroblast-like cells (RASFs) transfected with an anti-TXNDC5 small interfering RNA (siRNA) were analysed with an insulin signaling pathway RT² profiler polymerase chain reaction (PCR) array and an insulin resistance RT² profiler PCR array. The PCR arrays detected significantly increased expression of insulin-like growth factor binding protein 1 (IGFBP1) in RASFs with suppressed TXNDC5 expression. The result was verified using real-time PCR and Western blot analyses. Significantly elevated IGFBP1 expression and decreased interleukin (IL)-6 secretion were also detected in culture medium of transfected RASFs. Furthermore, decreased IGFBP1 mRNA and protein expression levels were detected in RA synovial tissues. Additionally, significantly increased apoptosis and decreased cell proliferation and cell migration were observed in RASFs transfected with the anti-TXNDC5 siRNA, whereas transfection with the anti-IGFBP1 siRNA or a mixture of the anti-IGFBP1 and anti-TXNDC5 siRNAs restored normal cell proliferation, migration and IL-6 level in RASFs. Insulin-like growth factor (IGF) has potent prosurvival and anti-apoptotic functions, and IGFBP1 can suppress IGF activity. Based on the results of the present study, we suggest that TXNDC5 contributes to abnormal RASF proliferation, migration and IL-6 production by inhibiting IGFBP1 expression.

RNA-seq analysis of amygdala tissue reveals characteristic expression profiles in schizophrenia

The amygdala brain region has been implicated in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia through emotion processing. However, transcriptome messages in the amygdala of schizophrenia patients have not been well studied. We used RNA sequencing to investigate gene-expression profiling in the amygdala tissues, and identified 569 upregulated and 192 downregulated genes from 22 schizophrenia patients and 24 non-psychiatric controls. Gene functional enrichment analysis demonstrated that the downregulated genes were enriched in pathways such as 'synaptic transmission' and 'behavior', whereas the upregulated genes were significantly over-represented in gene ontology pathways such as 'immune response' and 'blood vessel development'. Co-expression-based gene network analysis identified seven modules including four modules significantly associated with 'synaptic transmission', 'blood vessel development' or 'immune responses'. Taken together, our study provides novel insights into the molecular mechanism of schizophrenia, suggesting that precision-tailored therapeutic approaches aimed at normalizing the expression/function of specific gene networks could be a promising option in schizophrenia.

Suppression of STAT3 Signaling by Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) Induces Trophoblast Dysfunction

AIMS

Marijuana is a widely used illicit drug and its consumption during pregnancy has been associated with adverse reproductive outcomes. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of chronic intake of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the major component of marijuana, on trophoblast function, placental development, and birth outcomes.

METHODS

The pathological characteristics and distribution of cannabinoid receptors in placenta were observed by immunohistochemical (IHC) staining. Cell migration in response to THC was measured by transwell assays. The levels of cannabinoid receptors and Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) were detected by western blot.

RESULTS

We found the placenta expressed two main cannabinoid receptors, suggesting that THC induced biological responses in placental cells. Supporting this hypothesis, we observed dramatic alterations of placental morphology in marijuana users. Using THC and inhibitors of cannabinoid receptors, we demonstrated that THC impaired trophoblast cell migration and invasion partly via cannabinoid receptors. Additionally, pregnant mice injected with THC showed adverse reproductive events including reduced number of fetuses, lower maternal and placental weights. Mechanistically, STAT3 signaling pathway was involved in the THC-induced suppression of trophoblast cell motility and pregnancy outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Our study indicates that the STAT3 signaling pathway plays a critical role in THC-induced trophoblast dysfunction.