Subretinal fibrosis is the end-stage sequelae of neovascular age-related macular degeneration.It causes local damage to photoreceptors,retinal pigment epithelium,and choroidal vessels,which leads to permanent central ...Subretinal fibrosis is the end-stage sequelae of neovascular age-related macular degeneration.It causes local damage to photoreceptors,retinal pigment epithelium,and choroidal vessels,which leads to permanent central vision loss of patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration.The pathogenesis of subretinal fibrosis is complex,and the underlying mechanisms are largely unknown.Therefore,there are no effective treatment options.A thorough understanding of the pathogenesis of subretinal fibrosis and its related mechanisms is important to elucidate its complications and explore potential treatments.The current article reviews several aspects of subretinal fibrosis,including the current understanding on the relationship between neovascular age-related macular degeneration and subretinal fibrosis;multimodal imaging techniques for subretinal fibrosis;animal models for studying subretinal fibrosis;cellular and non-cellular constituents of subretinal fibrosis;pathophysiological mechanisms involved in subretinal fibrosis,such as aging,infiltration of macrophages,different sources of mesenchymal transition to myofibroblast,and activation of complement system and immune cells;and several key molecules and signaling pathways participating in the pathogenesis of subretinal fibrosis,such as vascular endothelial growth factor,connective tissue growth factor,fibroblast growth factor 2,platelet-derived growth factor and platelet-derived growth factor receptor-β,transforming growth factor-βsignaling pathway,Wnt signaling pathway,and the axis of heat shock protein 70-Toll-like receptors 2/4-interleukin-10.This review will improve the understanding of the pathogenesis of subretinal fibrosis,allow the discovery of molecular targets,and explore potential treatments for the management of subretinal fibrosis.展开更多
Epilepsy is a common and serious neurological disease that causes recurrent seizures. The brain damage caused by seizures can lead to depression, anxiety, cognitive impairment, or disability. In almost all cases chron...Epilepsy is a common and serious neurological disease that causes recurrent seizures. The brain damage caused by seizures can lead to depression, anxiety, cognitive impairment, or disability. In almost all cases chronic seizures are difficult to cure. MicroRNAs are widely expressed in the central nervous system and play important roles in the pathogenesis of several neurological disorders, including epilepsy. A variety of animals(mostly mice and rats) have been used to induce experimental epilepsy using different protocols and miRNA profiling performed. Most of the recent studies reviewed had performed miRNA profiling in hippocampal tissues and a large number of microRNAs were dysregulated when compared to controls. Most notably, miR-132-3p,-146a-5p,-10a-5p,-21a-3p,-27a-3p,-142a-5p,-212-3p,-431-5p, and-155 were upregulated in both the mouse and rat studies. Overexpression of miR-137 and miR-219 decreased seizure severity in a mouse epileptic model, and suppression of miR-451,-10a-5p,-21a-5p,-27a-5p,-142a-5p,-431-5p,-155, and-134 had a positive influence on seizure behavior. In the rat studies, overexpression of miR-139-5p decreased neuronal damage in drug-resistant rats and inhibition of miR-129-2-3p,-27a-3p,-155,-134,-181a, and-146a had a positive effect on seizure behavior and/or reduced the loss of neuronal cells. Further studies are warranted using adult female and immature male and female animals. It would also be helpful to test the ability of specific agomirs and antagomirs to control seizure activity in a subhuman primate model of epilepsy such as adult marmosets injected intraperitoneally with pilocarpine or cynomolgus monkeys given intrahippocampal injections of kainic acid.展开更多
Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system characterized by pronounced inflammatory infiltrates entering the brain,spinal cord and optic nerve leading to demyelination....Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system characterized by pronounced inflammatory infiltrates entering the brain,spinal cord and optic nerve leading to demyelination.Focal demyelination is associated with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis,while progressive forms of the disease show axonal degeneration and neuronal loss.The tests currently used in the clinical diagnosis and management of multiple sclerosis have limitations due to specificity and sensitivity.MicroRNAs(miRNAs)are dysregulated in many diseases and disorders including demyelinating and neuroinflammatory diseases.A review of recent studies with the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis animal model(mostly female mice 6–12 weeks of age)has confirmed miRNAs as biomarkers of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis disease and importantly at the pre-onset(asymptomatic)stage when assessed in blood plasma and urine exosomes,and spinal cord tissue.The expression of certain miRNAs was also dysregulated at the onset and peak of disease in blood plasma and urine exosomes,brain and spinal cord tissue,and at the post-peak(chronic)stage of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis disease in spinal cord tissue.Therapies using miRNA mimics or inhibitors were found to delay the induction and alleviate the severity of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis disease.Interestingly,experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis disease severity was reduced by overexpression of miR-146a,miR-23b,miR-497,miR-26a,and miR-20b,or by suppression of miR-182,miR-181c,miR-223,miR-155,and miR-873.Further studies are warranted on determining more fully miRNA profiles in blood plasma and urine exosomes of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis animals since they could serve as biomarkers of asymptomatic multiple sclerosis and disease course.Additionally,studies should be performed with male mice of a similar age,and with aged male and female mice.展开更多
Parkinson's disease(PD) is the second most common age-related neurodegenerative disorder, with the clinical main symptoms caused by a loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra, corpus striatum and brain ...Parkinson's disease(PD) is the second most common age-related neurodegenerative disorder, with the clinical main symptoms caused by a loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra, corpus striatum and brain cortex. Over 90% of patients with PD have sporadic PD and occur in people with no known family history of the disorder. Currently there is no cure for PD. Treatment with medications to increase dopamine relieves the symptoms but does not slow down or reverse the damage to neurons in the brain. Increasing evidence points to inflammation as a chief mediator of PD with inflammatory response mechanisms, involving microglia and leukocytes, activated following loss of dopaminergic neurons. Oxidative stress is also recognized as one of the main causes of PD, and excessive reactive oxygen species(ROS) and reactive nitrogen species can lead to dopaminergic neuron vulnerability and eventual death. Micro RNAs control a range of physiological and pathological functions, and may serve as potential targets for intervention against PD to mitigate damage to the brain. Several studies have demonstrated that micro RNAs can regulate oxidative stress and prevent ROS-mediated damage to dopaminergic neurons, suggesting that specific micro RNAs may be putative targets for novel therapeutic strategies in PD. Recent human and animal studies have identified a large number of dysregulated micro RNAs in PD brain tissue samples, many of which were downregulated. The dysregulated micro RNAs affect downstream targets such as SNCA, PARK2, LRRK2, TNFSF13 B, LTA, SLC5 A3, PSMB2, GSR, GBA, LAMP-2 A, HSC. Apart from one study, none of the studies reviewed had used agomirs or antagomirs to reverse the levels of downregulated or upregulated micro RNAs, respectively, in mouse models of PD or with isolated human or mouse dopaminergic cells. Further large-scale studies of brain tissue samples collected with short postmortem interval from human PD patients are warranted to provide more information on the micro RNA profiles in different brain regions and to test for gender differences.展开更多
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is characterized by primary damage to the brain from the external mechanical force and by subsequent secondary injury due to various molecular and pathophysiological responses that event...Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is characterized by primary damage to the brain from the external mechanical force and by subsequent secondary injury due to various molecular and pathophysiological responses that eventually lead to neuronal cell death. Secondary brain injury events may occur minutes, hours, or even days after the trauma, and provide valuable therapeutic targets to prevent further neuronal degeneration. At the present time, there is no effective treatment for TBI due, in part, to the widespread impact of numerous complex secondary biochemical and pathophysiological events occurring at different time points following the initial injury. MicroRNAs control a range of physiological and pathological functions such as develop- ment, differentiation, apoptosis and metabolism, and may serve as potential targets for progress assessment and intervention against TBI to mitigate secondary damage to the brain. This has implications regarding improving the diagnostic accuracy of brain impairment and long-term outcomes as well as potential novel treatments. Recent human studies have identified specific microRNAs in serum/plasma (miR-425-p, -21, -93, -191 and -499) and cerebro-spinal fluid (CSF) (miR-328, -362-3p, -451, -486a) as possible indicators of the diagnosis, severity, and prognosis of TBI. Experimental animal studies have examined specific microRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for moderate and mild TBI (e.g., miR-21, miR-23b). MicroRNA profil- ing was altered by voluntary exercise. Differences in basal microRNA expression in the brain of adult and aged animals and alterations in response to TBI (e.g., miR-21) have also been reported. Further large-scale studies with TBI patients are needed to provide more information on the changes in microRNA profiles in different age groups (children, adults, and elderly).展开更多
The chronic inflammatory process underlying inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), comprising Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, derives from the interplay of several components in a genetically susceptible host. ...The chronic inflammatory process underlying inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), comprising Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, derives from the interplay of several components in a genetically susceptible host. These components include environmental elements and gut microbiota a dysbiosis. For decades, immune abnormalities have been investigated as critically important in IBD pathogenesis, and attempts to develop effective therapies have predominantly targeted the immune system. Nevertheless, immune events represent only one of the constituents contributing to IBD pathogenesis within the context of the complex cellular and molecular network underlying chronic intestinal inflammation. These factors need to be appreciated within the milieu of nonimmune components. Damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), which are essentially endogenous stress proteins expressed or released as a result of cell or tissue damage, have been shown to act as direct proinflammatory mediators. Excessive or persistent signalling mediated by such molecules can underlie several chronic inflammatory disorders, including IBD. The release of endogenous DAMPs amplifies the inflammatory response driven by immune and non-immune cells and promotes epigenetic reprogramming in IBD.The effects determine pathologic changes,which may sustain chronic intestinal inflammation and also underlie specific disease phenotypes.In addition to highlighting the potential use of DAMPs such as calprotectin as biomarkers,research on DAMPs may reveal novel mechanistic associations in IBD pathogenesis and is expected to uncover putative therapeutic targets.展开更多
Glaucoma is a neurodegenerative disease in which optic nerve damage and visual field defects occur.It is a leading cause of irreversible blindness.Its pathogenesis is largely unknown although several risk factors have...Glaucoma is a neurodegenerative disease in which optic nerve damage and visual field defects occur.It is a leading cause of irreversible blindness.Its pathogenesis is largely unknown although several risk factors have been identified,with an increase in intraocular pressure being the main one.Lowering of intraocular pressure is the only treatment available.Open-angle glaucoma is the most common form of the condition,accounting for~90%of all cases of glaucoma,with primary open-angle glaucoma and exfoliation glaucoma being the most frequent types.There are strong indications that microRNAs play important roles in the pathogenesis of primary open-angle glaucoma.Most of the recent studies reviewed had performed microRNA profiling in aqueous humor from glaucoma patients compared to controls who were chiefly cataract patients.A very large number of microRNAs were dysregulated but with limited overlap between individual studies.MiRNAs in aqueous humor that could be possible targets for therapeutic intervention are miR-143-3p,miR-125b-5p,and miR-1260b.No ove rlap of findings occurred within the dysregulated miRNAs for blood plasma,blood serum,peripheral blood mononuclear cells,and tears of primary open-angle glaucoma patients.Seve ral impo rtant limitations were identified in these studies.Further studies are warranted of mic roRNA expression in aqueous humor and blood samples of primary open-angle glaucoma patients in the early stages of the disease so that validated biomarkers can be identified and treatment initiated.In addition,whether modifying the levels of specific microRNAs in aqueous humor or tears has a beneficial effect on intraocular pressure and ophthalmic examination of the eyes should be investigated using suitable animal models of glaucoma.展开更多
Choroidal neovascularization characterizes wet age-related macular degeneration.Choroidal neovascularization formation involves a primarily angiogenic process that is combined with both inflammation and proteolysis.A ...Choroidal neovascularization characterizes wet age-related macular degeneration.Choroidal neovascularization formation involves a primarily angiogenic process that is combined with both inflammation and proteolysis.A primary cause of choroidal neovascularization pathogenesis is alterations in pro-and anti-angiogenic factors derived from the retinal pigment epithelium,with vascular endothelium growth factor being mainly responsible for both clinical and experimental choroidal neovascularization.MicroRNAs(miRNAs)which are short,non-coding,endogenous RNA molecules have a major role in regulating various pathological processes,including inflammation and angiogenesis.A review of recent studies with the mouse laser-induced choroidal neovascularization model has shown alterations in miRNA expression in choroidal neovascularization tissues and could be potential therapeutic targets for wet age-related macular degeneration.Upregulation of miR-505(days 1 and 3 post-laser),miR-155(day 14)occurred in retina;miR-342-5p(days 3 and 7),miR-126-3p(day 14)in choroid;miR-23a,miR-24,miR-27a(day 7)in retina/choroid;miR-505(days 1 and 3)in retinal pigment epithelium/choroid;downregulation of miR-155(days 1 and 3),miR-29a,miR-29b,miR-29c(day 5),miR-93(day 14),miR-126(day 14)occurred in retinal pigment epithelium/choroid.Therapies using miRNA mimics or inhibitors were found to decrease choroidal neovascularization lesions.Choroidal neovascularization development was reduced by overexpression of miR-155,miR-188-5p,miR-(5,B,7),miR-126-3p,miR-342-5p,miR-93,miR-126,miR-195a-3p,miR-24,miR-21,miR-31,miR-150,and miR-184,or suppression of miR-505,miR-126-3p,miR-155,and miR-23/27.Further studies are warranted to determine miRNA expression in mouse laser-induced choroidal neovascularization models in order to validate and extend the reported findings.Important experimental variables need to be standardized;these include the strain and age of animals,gender,number and position of laser burns to the eye,laser parameters to induce choroidal neovascularization lesions including wavelength,power,spot size,and duration.展开更多
Despite tremendous efforts from scientists and clinicians worldwide, pancreatic adenocarcinoma(PDAC) remains a deadly disease due to the lack of early diagnostic tools and reliable therapeutic approaches. Consequently...Despite tremendous efforts from scientists and clinicians worldwide, pancreatic adenocarcinoma(PDAC) remains a deadly disease due to the lack of early diagnostic tools and reliable therapeutic approaches. Consequently, a majority of patients(80%) display an advanced disease that results in a low resection rate leading to an overall median survival of less than 6 months. Accordingly, robust markers for the early diagnosis and prognosis of pancreatic cancer, or markers indicative of survival and/or metastatic disease are des-perately needed to help alleviate the dismal prognosis of this cancer. In addition, the discovery of new therapeutic targets is mandatory to design effective treatments. In this review, we will highlight the translational studies demonstrating that microRNAs may soon translate into clinical applications as long-awaited screening tools and therapeutic targets for PDAC.展开更多
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD) is a major health care problem and represents the hepatic expression of the metabolic syndrome. NAFLD is classified as nonalcoholic fatty liver(NAFL) or simple steatosis,and no...Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD) is a major health care problem and represents the hepatic expression of the metabolic syndrome. NAFLD is classified as nonalcoholic fatty liver(NAFL) or simple steatosis,and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis(NASH). NASH is characterized by the presence of steatosis and inflammation with or without fibrosis. The physiopathology of NAFL and NASH and their progression to cirrhosis involve several parallel and interrelated mechanisms,such as,insulin resistance(IR),lipotoxicity,inflammation,oxidative stress,and recently the gut-liver axis interaction has been described. Incretin-based therapies could play a role in the treatment of NAFLD. Glucagon-like peptide-1(GLP-1) is an intestinal mucosa-derived hormone which is secreted into the bloodstream in response to nutrient ingestion; it favors glucose-stimulated insulin secretion,inhibition of postprandial glucagon secretion and delayed gastric emptying. It also promotes weight loss and is involved in lipid metabolism. Once secreted,GLP-1 is quickly degraded by dipeptidyl peptidase-4(DPP-4). Therefore,DPP-4 inhibitors are able to extend the activity of GLP-1. Currently,GLP-1 agonists and DPP-4 inhibitors represent attractive options for the treatment of NAFLD and NASH. The modulation of lipid and glucose metabolism through nuclear receptors,such as the farsenoid X receptor,also constitutes an attractive therapeutic target. Obeticholic acid is a potent activator of the farnesoid X nuclear receptor and reduces liver fat content and fibrosis in animal models. Ursodeoxycholic acid(UDCA) is a hydrophilic bile acid with immunomodulatory,antiinflammatory,antiapoptotic,antioxidant and antifibrotic properties. UDCA can improve IR and modulate lipid metabolism through its interaction with nuclear receptors such as,TGR5,farnesoid X receptor-a,or the small heterodimeric partner. Finally,pharmacologic modulation of the gut microbiota could have a role in the therapy of NAFLD and NASH. Probiotics prevent bacterial translocation and epithelial invasion,inhibit mucosal adherence by bacteria,and stimulate host immunity. In animal models,probiotics prevent obesity,decrease transaminase levels,and improve IR and liver histology in NASH.展开更多
Multiple sclerosis(MS)is a chronic,severe and complex disease of still uncertain etiopathogenesis,with lesions in the cerebral white matter and spinal cord.The disease is heterogeneous,but is characterized by neuroi...Multiple sclerosis(MS)is a chronic,severe and complex disease of still uncertain etiopathogenesis,with lesions in the cerebral white matter and spinal cord.The disease is heterogeneous,but is characterized by neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative processes,usually associated with altered activation of the immune system following presumable stimulation by still unknown autoantigens.展开更多
Traumatic brain injury(TBI)triggers liver inflammation:TBI is a serious pathology affecting around 10 million people annually,being a persistent public health and medical problem Forceful impact while playing sport...Traumatic brain injury(TBI)triggers liver inflammation:TBI is a serious pathology affecting around 10 million people annually,being a persistent public health and medical problem Forceful impact while playing sports,falls,physical assault,or traffic accidents are common causes of head injury.展开更多
Prostate cancer is a major public health concern world-wide, being one of the most prevalent cancers in men. Great improvements have been made both in terms of early diagnosis and therapeutics. However, there is still...Prostate cancer is a major public health concern world-wide, being one of the most prevalent cancers in men. Great improvements have been made both in terms of early diagnosis and therapeutics. However, there is still an urgent need for reliable biomarkers that could overcome the lack of cancer-specifcity of prostate-specifc antigen, as well as alternative therapeutic targets for advanced metastatic cases. Reversible phosphorylation of proteins is a post-translational modifcation critical to the regulation of numerous cellular processes. Phosphoprotein phosphatase 1 (PPP1) is a major serine/threonine phos-phatase, whose specifcity is determined by its interacting proteins. These interactors can be PPP1 substrates, regulators, or even both. Deregulation of this protein-protein interaction network alters cell dynamics and underlies the development of several cancer hallmarks. Therefore, the identification of PPP1 interactome in specific cellular context is of crucial importance. The knowledge on PPP1 complexes in prostate cancer remains scarce, with only 4 holoenzymes characterized in human prostate cancer models. However, an increasing number of PPP1 interactors have been identifed as expressed in human prostate tissue, including the tumor suppressors TP53 and RB1. Efforts should be made in order to identify the role of such proteins in prostate carcinogenesis, since only 26 have yet well-recognized roles. Here, we revise literature and human protein databases to provide an in-depth knowledge on the biological significance of PPP1 complexes in human prostate carcinogenesis and their potential use as therapeutic targets for the development of new therapies for prostate cancer.展开更多
Defects in intestinal barrier function characterized by an increase in intestinal permeability contribute to intestinal inflammation.Growing evidence has shown that an increase in intestinal permeability has a pathoge...Defects in intestinal barrier function characterized by an increase in intestinal permeability contribute to intestinal inflammation.Growing evidence has shown that an increase in intestinal permeability has a pathogenic role in diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)and celiac disease,and functional bowel disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome.Therefore,clarification of the inflammatory responses,the defense pathway and the corresponding regulatory system is essential and may lead to the development of new therapies.MicroRNAs(miRNAs)are small(19-22nt)noncoding RNA molecules that regulate genes at the post-transcriptional level by base-pairing to specific messenger RNAs for degradation to repress translation.Recent studies suggested that miRNAs are important in the immune response and mediate a critical role in multiple immune response-related disorders.Based on these discoveries,attention has been focused on understanding the role of miRNAs in regulating intestinal barrier dysfunction,especially in IBD.Here,we provide a review of the most recent state-of-the-art research on miRNAs in intestinal barrier dysfunction.展开更多
Regulated cell death is a form of cell death that is actively controlled by biomolecules.Several studies have shown that regulated cell death plays a key role after spinal cord injury.Pyroptosis and ferroptosis are ne...Regulated cell death is a form of cell death that is actively controlled by biomolecules.Several studies have shown that regulated cell death plays a key role after spinal cord injury.Pyroptosis and ferroptosis are newly discovered types of regulated cell deaths that have been shown to exacerbate inflammation and lead to cell death in damaged spinal cords.Autophagy,a complex form of cell death that is interconnected with various regulated cell death mechanisms,has garnered significant attention in the study of spinal cord injury.This injury triggers not only cell death but also cellular survival responses.Multiple signaling pathways play pivotal roles in influencing the processes of both deterioration and repair in spinal cord injury by regulating pyroptosis,ferroptosis,and autophagy.Therefore,this review aims to comprehensively examine the mechanisms underlying regulated cell deaths,the signaling pathways that modulate these mechanisms,and the potential therapeutic targets for spinal cord injury.Our analysis suggests that targeting the common regulatory signaling pathways of different regulated cell deaths could be a promising strategy to promote cell survival and enhance the repair of spinal cord injury.Moreover,a holistic approach that incorporates multiple regulated cell deaths and their regulatory pathways presents a promising multi-target therapeutic strategy for the management of spinal cord injury.展开更多
Rigidity(or stiffness)of materials and extracellular matrix has proven to be one of the most significant extracellular physicochemical cues that can control diverse cell behaviors,such as contractility,motility,and sp...Rigidity(or stiffness)of materials and extracellular matrix has proven to be one of the most significant extracellular physicochemical cues that can control diverse cell behaviors,such as contractility,motility,and spreading,and the resultant pathophysiological phenomena.Many 2D materials engineered with tunable rigidity have enabled researchers to elucidate the roles of matrix biophysical cues in diverse cellular events,including migration,lineage specification,and mechanical memory.Moreover,the recent findings accumulated under 3D environments with viscoelastic and remodeling properties pointed to the importance of dynamically changing rigidity in cell fate control,tissue repair,and disease progression.Thus,here we aim to highlight the works related with material/matrix-rigidity-mediated cell and tissue behaviors,with a brief outlook into the studies on the effects of material/matrix rigidity on cell behaviors in 2D systems,further discussion of the events and considerations in tissue-mimicking 3D conditions,and then examination of the in vivo findings that concern material/matrix rigidity.The current discussion will help understand the material/matrix-rigidity-mediated biological phenomena and further leverage the concepts to find therapeutic targets and to design implantable materials for the treatment of damaged and diseased tissues.展开更多
Human pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors(PanNETs)are a rare,deadly tumor type that is sporadic or arises in the background of a hereditary syndrome.A critical genetic event in sporadic tumors is inactivation of the gene...Human pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors(PanNETs)are a rare,deadly tumor type that is sporadic or arises in the background of a hereditary syndrome.A critical genetic event in sporadic tumors is inactivation of the gene menin 1(MEN1)on chromosome 11,and indeed,PanNETs occur in patients with the hereditary syndrome multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1(MEN1)due to germline mutations in the gene.Here,we review the recent progress in the field of molecular genetics and therapeutic targets of PanNETs.The key genomic alterations,including MEN1,ATRX/DAXX,mammalian target of rapamycin(mTOR),DNA damage and repair associated genes,vascular endothelial growth factor receptor(VEGFR)and SSTRs,and epigenetic aberrations in PanNETs are discussed.In addition,the commonly used preclinical models for PanNETs are enumerated.展开更多
Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease,and clinically,asthma exacerbations remain difficult to treat.The disease is caused by combinations of and interactions between genetic and environmental factors.Genomic and gen...Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease,and clinically,asthma exacerbations remain difficult to treat.The disease is caused by combinations of and interactions between genetic and environmental factors.Genomic and genetic approaches identified many novel genes to treat asthma and brought new insights into the disease.The products of the genes have functional roles in regulating physiological or pathophysiological processes in airway structural cells and immune system cells.Genetic factors also interact with environmental factors such as air pollutants,and bacterial and viral infections to trigger the disease.Thymic stromal lymphopoietin(TSLP),orosomucoid-like 3(ORMDL3),and gasdermin B(GSDMB)are three genes identified by genetic studies to have a great potential as therapeutic targets of asthma.TSLP is an important driver of type 2 inflammation.ORMDL3 mediates cell stress,sphingolipid synthesis,and viral and bacterial infections.GSDMB regulates cell pyroptosis through its N and C terminals and can bind sulfatides to influence inflammatory response.Investigating inhibitors or modulators for these pathways would bring a new landscape for therapeutics of asthma in future.展开更多
Intracerebral hemorrhage is a life-threatening condition with a high fatality rate and severe sequelae.However,there is currently no treatment available for intracerebral hemorrhage,unlike for other stroke subtypes.Re...Intracerebral hemorrhage is a life-threatening condition with a high fatality rate and severe sequelae.However,there is currently no treatment available for intracerebral hemorrhage,unlike for other stroke subtypes.Recent studies have indicated that mitochondrial dysfunction and mitophagy likely relate to the pathophysiology of intracerebral hemorrhage.Mitophagy,or selective autophagy of mitochondria,is an essential pathway to preserve mitochondrial homeostasis by clearing up damaged mitochondria.Mitophagy markedly contributes to the reduction of secondary brain injury caused by mitochondrial dysfunction after intracerebral hemorrhage.This review provides an overview of the mitochondrial dysfunction that occurs after intracerebral hemorrhage and the underlying mechanisms regarding how mitophagy regulates it,and discusses the new direction of therapeutic strategies targeting mitophagy for intracerebral hemorrhage,aiming to determine the close connection between mitophagy and intracerebral hemorrhage and identify new therapies to modulate mitophagy after intracerebral hemorrhage.In conclusion,although only a small number of drugs modulating mitophagy in intracerebral hemorrhage have been found thus far,most of which are in the preclinical stage and require further investigation,mitophagy is still a very valid and promising therapeutic target for intracerebral hemorrhage in the long run.展开更多
Alcoholic liver disease(ALD)encompasses a range of conditions resulting from prolonged and excessive alcohol consumption,causing liver damage such as alcoholic fatty liver,inflammation,fibrosis,and cirrhosis.Alcohol c...Alcoholic liver disease(ALD)encompasses a range of conditions resulting from prolonged and excessive alcohol consumption,causing liver damage such as alcoholic fatty liver,inflammation,fibrosis,and cirrhosis.Alcohol consumption contributes to millions of deaths each year.So far,the effective treatments for ALD are limited.To date,the most effective treatment for ALD is still prevention by avoiding excessive alcohol consumption,and only few specialized medicines are in the market for the treatment of patients suffering from ALD.Small molecules targeting various pathways implicated in ALD pathogenesis can potentially be used for effective therapeutics development.In this review,we provide a concise overview of the latest research findings on potential therapeutic targets,specifically emphasizing small-molecule interventions for the treatment and prevention of ALD.展开更多
基金supported by grants from National Key R&D Program of China,No.2023YFC2506100(to JZ)the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82171062(to JZ).
文摘Subretinal fibrosis is the end-stage sequelae of neovascular age-related macular degeneration.It causes local damage to photoreceptors,retinal pigment epithelium,and choroidal vessels,which leads to permanent central vision loss of patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration.The pathogenesis of subretinal fibrosis is complex,and the underlying mechanisms are largely unknown.Therefore,there are no effective treatment options.A thorough understanding of the pathogenesis of subretinal fibrosis and its related mechanisms is important to elucidate its complications and explore potential treatments.The current article reviews several aspects of subretinal fibrosis,including the current understanding on the relationship between neovascular age-related macular degeneration and subretinal fibrosis;multimodal imaging techniques for subretinal fibrosis;animal models for studying subretinal fibrosis;cellular and non-cellular constituents of subretinal fibrosis;pathophysiological mechanisms involved in subretinal fibrosis,such as aging,infiltration of macrophages,different sources of mesenchymal transition to myofibroblast,and activation of complement system and immune cells;and several key molecules and signaling pathways participating in the pathogenesis of subretinal fibrosis,such as vascular endothelial growth factor,connective tissue growth factor,fibroblast growth factor 2,platelet-derived growth factor and platelet-derived growth factor receptor-β,transforming growth factor-βsignaling pathway,Wnt signaling pathway,and the axis of heat shock protein 70-Toll-like receptors 2/4-interleukin-10.This review will improve the understanding of the pathogenesis of subretinal fibrosis,allow the discovery of molecular targets,and explore potential treatments for the management of subretinal fibrosis.
文摘Epilepsy is a common and serious neurological disease that causes recurrent seizures. The brain damage caused by seizures can lead to depression, anxiety, cognitive impairment, or disability. In almost all cases chronic seizures are difficult to cure. MicroRNAs are widely expressed in the central nervous system and play important roles in the pathogenesis of several neurological disorders, including epilepsy. A variety of animals(mostly mice and rats) have been used to induce experimental epilepsy using different protocols and miRNA profiling performed. Most of the recent studies reviewed had performed miRNA profiling in hippocampal tissues and a large number of microRNAs were dysregulated when compared to controls. Most notably, miR-132-3p,-146a-5p,-10a-5p,-21a-3p,-27a-3p,-142a-5p,-212-3p,-431-5p, and-155 were upregulated in both the mouse and rat studies. Overexpression of miR-137 and miR-219 decreased seizure severity in a mouse epileptic model, and suppression of miR-451,-10a-5p,-21a-5p,-27a-5p,-142a-5p,-431-5p,-155, and-134 had a positive influence on seizure behavior. In the rat studies, overexpression of miR-139-5p decreased neuronal damage in drug-resistant rats and inhibition of miR-129-2-3p,-27a-3p,-155,-134,-181a, and-146a had a positive effect on seizure behavior and/or reduced the loss of neuronal cells. Further studies are warranted using adult female and immature male and female animals. It would also be helpful to test the ability of specific agomirs and antagomirs to control seizure activity in a subhuman primate model of epilepsy such as adult marmosets injected intraperitoneally with pilocarpine or cynomolgus monkeys given intrahippocampal injections of kainic acid.
文摘Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system characterized by pronounced inflammatory infiltrates entering the brain,spinal cord and optic nerve leading to demyelination.Focal demyelination is associated with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis,while progressive forms of the disease show axonal degeneration and neuronal loss.The tests currently used in the clinical diagnosis and management of multiple sclerosis have limitations due to specificity and sensitivity.MicroRNAs(miRNAs)are dysregulated in many diseases and disorders including demyelinating and neuroinflammatory diseases.A review of recent studies with the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis animal model(mostly female mice 6–12 weeks of age)has confirmed miRNAs as biomarkers of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis disease and importantly at the pre-onset(asymptomatic)stage when assessed in blood plasma and urine exosomes,and spinal cord tissue.The expression of certain miRNAs was also dysregulated at the onset and peak of disease in blood plasma and urine exosomes,brain and spinal cord tissue,and at the post-peak(chronic)stage of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis disease in spinal cord tissue.Therapies using miRNA mimics or inhibitors were found to delay the induction and alleviate the severity of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis disease.Interestingly,experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis disease severity was reduced by overexpression of miR-146a,miR-23b,miR-497,miR-26a,and miR-20b,or by suppression of miR-182,miR-181c,miR-223,miR-155,and miR-873.Further studies are warranted on determining more fully miRNA profiles in blood plasma and urine exosomes of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis animals since they could serve as biomarkers of asymptomatic multiple sclerosis and disease course.Additionally,studies should be performed with male mice of a similar age,and with aged male and female mice.
文摘Parkinson's disease(PD) is the second most common age-related neurodegenerative disorder, with the clinical main symptoms caused by a loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra, corpus striatum and brain cortex. Over 90% of patients with PD have sporadic PD and occur in people with no known family history of the disorder. Currently there is no cure for PD. Treatment with medications to increase dopamine relieves the symptoms but does not slow down or reverse the damage to neurons in the brain. Increasing evidence points to inflammation as a chief mediator of PD with inflammatory response mechanisms, involving microglia and leukocytes, activated following loss of dopaminergic neurons. Oxidative stress is also recognized as one of the main causes of PD, and excessive reactive oxygen species(ROS) and reactive nitrogen species can lead to dopaminergic neuron vulnerability and eventual death. Micro RNAs control a range of physiological and pathological functions, and may serve as potential targets for intervention against PD to mitigate damage to the brain. Several studies have demonstrated that micro RNAs can regulate oxidative stress and prevent ROS-mediated damage to dopaminergic neurons, suggesting that specific micro RNAs may be putative targets for novel therapeutic strategies in PD. Recent human and animal studies have identified a large number of dysregulated micro RNAs in PD brain tissue samples, many of which were downregulated. The dysregulated micro RNAs affect downstream targets such as SNCA, PARK2, LRRK2, TNFSF13 B, LTA, SLC5 A3, PSMB2, GSR, GBA, LAMP-2 A, HSC. Apart from one study, none of the studies reviewed had used agomirs or antagomirs to reverse the levels of downregulated or upregulated micro RNAs, respectively, in mouse models of PD or with isolated human or mouse dopaminergic cells. Further large-scale studies of brain tissue samples collected with short postmortem interval from human PD patients are warranted to provide more information on the micro RNA profiles in different brain regions and to test for gender differences.
文摘Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is characterized by primary damage to the brain from the external mechanical force and by subsequent secondary injury due to various molecular and pathophysiological responses that eventually lead to neuronal cell death. Secondary brain injury events may occur minutes, hours, or even days after the trauma, and provide valuable therapeutic targets to prevent further neuronal degeneration. At the present time, there is no effective treatment for TBI due, in part, to the widespread impact of numerous complex secondary biochemical and pathophysiological events occurring at different time points following the initial injury. MicroRNAs control a range of physiological and pathological functions such as develop- ment, differentiation, apoptosis and metabolism, and may serve as potential targets for progress assessment and intervention against TBI to mitigate secondary damage to the brain. This has implications regarding improving the diagnostic accuracy of brain impairment and long-term outcomes as well as potential novel treatments. Recent human studies have identified specific microRNAs in serum/plasma (miR-425-p, -21, -93, -191 and -499) and cerebro-spinal fluid (CSF) (miR-328, -362-3p, -451, -486a) as possible indicators of the diagnosis, severity, and prognosis of TBI. Experimental animal studies have examined specific microRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for moderate and mild TBI (e.g., miR-21, miR-23b). MicroRNA profil- ing was altered by voluntary exercise. Differences in basal microRNA expression in the brain of adult and aged animals and alterations in response to TBI (e.g., miR-21) have also been reported. Further large-scale studies with TBI patients are needed to provide more information on the changes in microRNA profiles in different age groups (children, adults, and elderly).
基金Supported by the Brazilian research foundations Fundacao de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Rio de Janeiro--FAPERJ,No.E26/202.781/2017Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico-CNPq,No.302401/2016-4
文摘The chronic inflammatory process underlying inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), comprising Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, derives from the interplay of several components in a genetically susceptible host. These components include environmental elements and gut microbiota a dysbiosis. For decades, immune abnormalities have been investigated as critically important in IBD pathogenesis, and attempts to develop effective therapies have predominantly targeted the immune system. Nevertheless, immune events represent only one of the constituents contributing to IBD pathogenesis within the context of the complex cellular and molecular network underlying chronic intestinal inflammation. These factors need to be appreciated within the milieu of nonimmune components. Damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), which are essentially endogenous stress proteins expressed or released as a result of cell or tissue damage, have been shown to act as direct proinflammatory mediators. Excessive or persistent signalling mediated by such molecules can underlie several chronic inflammatory disorders, including IBD. The release of endogenous DAMPs amplifies the inflammatory response driven by immune and non-immune cells and promotes epigenetic reprogramming in IBD.The effects determine pathologic changes,which may sustain chronic intestinal inflammation and also underlie specific disease phenotypes.In addition to highlighting the potential use of DAMPs such as calprotectin as biomarkers,research on DAMPs may reveal novel mechanistic associations in IBD pathogenesis and is expected to uncover putative therapeutic targets.
文摘Glaucoma is a neurodegenerative disease in which optic nerve damage and visual field defects occur.It is a leading cause of irreversible blindness.Its pathogenesis is largely unknown although several risk factors have been identified,with an increase in intraocular pressure being the main one.Lowering of intraocular pressure is the only treatment available.Open-angle glaucoma is the most common form of the condition,accounting for~90%of all cases of glaucoma,with primary open-angle glaucoma and exfoliation glaucoma being the most frequent types.There are strong indications that microRNAs play important roles in the pathogenesis of primary open-angle glaucoma.Most of the recent studies reviewed had performed microRNA profiling in aqueous humor from glaucoma patients compared to controls who were chiefly cataract patients.A very large number of microRNAs were dysregulated but with limited overlap between individual studies.MiRNAs in aqueous humor that could be possible targets for therapeutic intervention are miR-143-3p,miR-125b-5p,and miR-1260b.No ove rlap of findings occurred within the dysregulated miRNAs for blood plasma,blood serum,peripheral blood mononuclear cells,and tears of primary open-angle glaucoma patients.Seve ral impo rtant limitations were identified in these studies.Further studies are warranted of mic roRNA expression in aqueous humor and blood samples of primary open-angle glaucoma patients in the early stages of the disease so that validated biomarkers can be identified and treatment initiated.In addition,whether modifying the levels of specific microRNAs in aqueous humor or tears has a beneficial effect on intraocular pressure and ophthalmic examination of the eyes should be investigated using suitable animal models of glaucoma.
文摘Choroidal neovascularization characterizes wet age-related macular degeneration.Choroidal neovascularization formation involves a primarily angiogenic process that is combined with both inflammation and proteolysis.A primary cause of choroidal neovascularization pathogenesis is alterations in pro-and anti-angiogenic factors derived from the retinal pigment epithelium,with vascular endothelium growth factor being mainly responsible for both clinical and experimental choroidal neovascularization.MicroRNAs(miRNAs)which are short,non-coding,endogenous RNA molecules have a major role in regulating various pathological processes,including inflammation and angiogenesis.A review of recent studies with the mouse laser-induced choroidal neovascularization model has shown alterations in miRNA expression in choroidal neovascularization tissues and could be potential therapeutic targets for wet age-related macular degeneration.Upregulation of miR-505(days 1 and 3 post-laser),miR-155(day 14)occurred in retina;miR-342-5p(days 3 and 7),miR-126-3p(day 14)in choroid;miR-23a,miR-24,miR-27a(day 7)in retina/choroid;miR-505(days 1 and 3)in retinal pigment epithelium/choroid;downregulation of miR-155(days 1 and 3),miR-29a,miR-29b,miR-29c(day 5),miR-93(day 14),miR-126(day 14)occurred in retinal pigment epithelium/choroid.Therapies using miRNA mimics or inhibitors were found to decrease choroidal neovascularization lesions.Choroidal neovascularization development was reduced by overexpression of miR-155,miR-188-5p,miR-(5,B,7),miR-126-3p,miR-342-5p,miR-93,miR-126,miR-195a-3p,miR-24,miR-21,miR-31,miR-150,and miR-184,or suppression of miR-505,miR-126-3p,miR-155,and miR-23/27.Further studies are warranted to determine miRNA expression in mouse laser-induced choroidal neovascularization models in order to validate and extend the reported findings.Important experimental variables need to be standardized;these include the strain and age of animals,gender,number and position of laser burns to the eye,laser parameters to induce choroidal neovascularization lesions including wavelength,power,spot size,and duration.
文摘Despite tremendous efforts from scientists and clinicians worldwide, pancreatic adenocarcinoma(PDAC) remains a deadly disease due to the lack of early diagnostic tools and reliable therapeutic approaches. Consequently, a majority of patients(80%) display an advanced disease that results in a low resection rate leading to an overall median survival of less than 6 months. Accordingly, robust markers for the early diagnosis and prognosis of pancreatic cancer, or markers indicative of survival and/or metastatic disease are des-perately needed to help alleviate the dismal prognosis of this cancer. In addition, the discovery of new therapeutic targets is mandatory to design effective treatments. In this review, we will highlight the translational studies demonstrating that microRNAs may soon translate into clinical applications as long-awaited screening tools and therapeutic targets for PDAC.
文摘Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD) is a major health care problem and represents the hepatic expression of the metabolic syndrome. NAFLD is classified as nonalcoholic fatty liver(NAFL) or simple steatosis,and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis(NASH). NASH is characterized by the presence of steatosis and inflammation with or without fibrosis. The physiopathology of NAFL and NASH and their progression to cirrhosis involve several parallel and interrelated mechanisms,such as,insulin resistance(IR),lipotoxicity,inflammation,oxidative stress,and recently the gut-liver axis interaction has been described. Incretin-based therapies could play a role in the treatment of NAFLD. Glucagon-like peptide-1(GLP-1) is an intestinal mucosa-derived hormone which is secreted into the bloodstream in response to nutrient ingestion; it favors glucose-stimulated insulin secretion,inhibition of postprandial glucagon secretion and delayed gastric emptying. It also promotes weight loss and is involved in lipid metabolism. Once secreted,GLP-1 is quickly degraded by dipeptidyl peptidase-4(DPP-4). Therefore,DPP-4 inhibitors are able to extend the activity of GLP-1. Currently,GLP-1 agonists and DPP-4 inhibitors represent attractive options for the treatment of NAFLD and NASH. The modulation of lipid and glucose metabolism through nuclear receptors,such as the farsenoid X receptor,also constitutes an attractive therapeutic target. Obeticholic acid is a potent activator of the farnesoid X nuclear receptor and reduces liver fat content and fibrosis in animal models. Ursodeoxycholic acid(UDCA) is a hydrophilic bile acid with immunomodulatory,antiinflammatory,antiapoptotic,antioxidant and antifibrotic properties. UDCA can improve IR and modulate lipid metabolism through its interaction with nuclear receptors such as,TGR5,farnesoid X receptor-a,or the small heterodimeric partner. Finally,pharmacologic modulation of the gut microbiota could have a role in the therapy of NAFLD and NASH. Probiotics prevent bacterial translocation and epithelial invasion,inhibit mucosal adherence by bacteria,and stimulate host immunity. In animal models,probiotics prevent obesity,decrease transaminase levels,and improve IR and liver histology in NASH.
文摘Multiple sclerosis(MS)is a chronic,severe and complex disease of still uncertain etiopathogenesis,with lesions in the cerebral white matter and spinal cord.The disease is heterogeneous,but is characterized by neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative processes,usually associated with altered activation of the immune system following presumable stimulation by still unknown autoantigens.
文摘Traumatic brain injury(TBI)triggers liver inflammation:TBI is a serious pathology affecting around 10 million people annually,being a persistent public health and medical problem Forceful impact while playing sports,falls,physical assault,or traffic accidents are common causes of head injury.
基金Supported by Fundao para a Ciência e Tecnologia(FCT)(PTDC/QUI-BIQ/118492/2010)Fundo Europeu de Desenvolvimento Regional(FEDER)(FCOMP-01-0124-FEDER-020895),Portugal
文摘Prostate cancer is a major public health concern world-wide, being one of the most prevalent cancers in men. Great improvements have been made both in terms of early diagnosis and therapeutics. However, there is still an urgent need for reliable biomarkers that could overcome the lack of cancer-specifcity of prostate-specifc antigen, as well as alternative therapeutic targets for advanced metastatic cases. Reversible phosphorylation of proteins is a post-translational modifcation critical to the regulation of numerous cellular processes. Phosphoprotein phosphatase 1 (PPP1) is a major serine/threonine phos-phatase, whose specifcity is determined by its interacting proteins. These interactors can be PPP1 substrates, regulators, or even both. Deregulation of this protein-protein interaction network alters cell dynamics and underlies the development of several cancer hallmarks. Therefore, the identification of PPP1 interactome in specific cellular context is of crucial importance. The knowledge on PPP1 complexes in prostate cancer remains scarce, with only 4 holoenzymes characterized in human prostate cancer models. However, an increasing number of PPP1 interactors have been identifed as expressed in human prostate tissue, including the tumor suppressors TP53 and RB1. Efforts should be made in order to identify the role of such proteins in prostate carcinogenesis, since only 26 have yet well-recognized roles. Here, we revise literature and human protein databases to provide an in-depth knowledge on the biological significance of PPP1 complexes in human prostate carcinogenesis and their potential use as therapeutic targets for the development of new therapies for prostate cancer.
基金Supported by Grant for Key Clinical Discipline Construction of Shanghai Municipality,China,No.ZK2012B20Phase Ⅱ Outstanding Young Medical Personnel Training Fund of Jinshan District Health Systems,Shanghai,China,No.JWKJ-RCYQ-201207
文摘Defects in intestinal barrier function characterized by an increase in intestinal permeability contribute to intestinal inflammation.Growing evidence has shown that an increase in intestinal permeability has a pathogenic role in diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)and celiac disease,and functional bowel disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome.Therefore,clarification of the inflammatory responses,the defense pathway and the corresponding regulatory system is essential and may lead to the development of new therapies.MicroRNAs(miRNAs)are small(19-22nt)noncoding RNA molecules that regulate genes at the post-transcriptional level by base-pairing to specific messenger RNAs for degradation to repress translation.Recent studies suggested that miRNAs are important in the immune response and mediate a critical role in multiple immune response-related disorders.Based on these discoveries,attention has been focused on understanding the role of miRNAs in regulating intestinal barrier dysfunction,especially in IBD.Here,we provide a review of the most recent state-of-the-art research on miRNAs in intestinal barrier dysfunction.
基金supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Fujian Province,No.2021J02035(to WX).
文摘Regulated cell death is a form of cell death that is actively controlled by biomolecules.Several studies have shown that regulated cell death plays a key role after spinal cord injury.Pyroptosis and ferroptosis are newly discovered types of regulated cell deaths that have been shown to exacerbate inflammation and lead to cell death in damaged spinal cords.Autophagy,a complex form of cell death that is interconnected with various regulated cell death mechanisms,has garnered significant attention in the study of spinal cord injury.This injury triggers not only cell death but also cellular survival responses.Multiple signaling pathways play pivotal roles in influencing the processes of both deterioration and repair in spinal cord injury by regulating pyroptosis,ferroptosis,and autophagy.Therefore,this review aims to comprehensively examine the mechanisms underlying regulated cell deaths,the signaling pathways that modulate these mechanisms,and the potential therapeutic targets for spinal cord injury.Our analysis suggests that targeting the common regulatory signaling pathways of different regulated cell deaths could be a promising strategy to promote cell survival and enhance the repair of spinal cord injury.Moreover,a holistic approach that incorporates multiple regulated cell deaths and their regulatory pathways presents a promising multi-target therapeutic strategy for the management of spinal cord injury.
基金supported by the grants(2021R1A5A2022318,2019R1C1C1002490,2018R1A2B3003446,2018K1A4A3A01064257,2019R1A6A1A11034536),National Research Foundation,Republic of Korea.
文摘Rigidity(or stiffness)of materials and extracellular matrix has proven to be one of the most significant extracellular physicochemical cues that can control diverse cell behaviors,such as contractility,motility,and spreading,and the resultant pathophysiological phenomena.Many 2D materials engineered with tunable rigidity have enabled researchers to elucidate the roles of matrix biophysical cues in diverse cellular events,including migration,lineage specification,and mechanical memory.Moreover,the recent findings accumulated under 3D environments with viscoelastic and remodeling properties pointed to the importance of dynamically changing rigidity in cell fate control,tissue repair,and disease progression.Thus,here we aim to highlight the works related with material/matrix-rigidity-mediated cell and tissue behaviors,with a brief outlook into the studies on the effects of material/matrix rigidity on cell behaviors in 2D systems,further discussion of the events and considerations in tissue-mimicking 3D conditions,and then examination of the in vivo findings that concern material/matrix rigidity.The current discussion will help understand the material/matrix-rigidity-mediated biological phenomena and further leverage the concepts to find therapeutic targets and to design implantable materials for the treatment of damaged and diseased tissues.
基金supported by the National Outstanding Youth Science Fund Project of National Natural Science Foundation of China(82225033)the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(CAMS)Innovation Fund for Medical Sciences(CIFMS)(2021-I2M-1-067)Non-profit central research institute fund of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2022-RC310-08).
文摘Human pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors(PanNETs)are a rare,deadly tumor type that is sporadic or arises in the background of a hereditary syndrome.A critical genetic event in sporadic tumors is inactivation of the gene menin 1(MEN1)on chromosome 11,and indeed,PanNETs occur in patients with the hereditary syndrome multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1(MEN1)due to germline mutations in the gene.Here,we review the recent progress in the field of molecular genetics and therapeutic targets of PanNETs.The key genomic alterations,including MEN1,ATRX/DAXX,mammalian target of rapamycin(mTOR),DNA damage and repair associated genes,vascular endothelial growth factor receptor(VEGFR)and SSTRs,and epigenetic aberrations in PanNETs are discussed.In addition,the commonly used preclinical models for PanNETs are enumerated.
文摘Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease,and clinically,asthma exacerbations remain difficult to treat.The disease is caused by combinations of and interactions between genetic and environmental factors.Genomic and genetic approaches identified many novel genes to treat asthma and brought new insights into the disease.The products of the genes have functional roles in regulating physiological or pathophysiological processes in airway structural cells and immune system cells.Genetic factors also interact with environmental factors such as air pollutants,and bacterial and viral infections to trigger the disease.Thymic stromal lymphopoietin(TSLP),orosomucoid-like 3(ORMDL3),and gasdermin B(GSDMB)are three genes identified by genetic studies to have a great potential as therapeutic targets of asthma.TSLP is an important driver of type 2 inflammation.ORMDL3 mediates cell stress,sphingolipid synthesis,and viral and bacterial infections.GSDMB regulates cell pyroptosis through its N and C terminals and can bind sulfatides to influence inflammatory response.Investigating inhibitors or modulators for these pathways would bring a new landscape for therapeutics of asthma in future.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.82071382(to MZ),81601306(to HS)The Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions(PAPD)(to MZ)+5 种基金Jiangsu 333 High-Level Talent Training Project(2022)(to HS)The Jiangsu Maternal and Child Health Research Key Project,No.F202013(to HS)Jiangsu Talent Youth Medical Program,No.QNRC2016245(to HS)Shanghai Key Lab of Forensic Medicine,No.KF2102(to MZ)Suzhou Science and Technology Development Project,No.SYS2020089(to MZ)The Fifth Batch of Gusu District Health Talent Training Project,No.GSWS2019060(to HS)。
文摘Intracerebral hemorrhage is a life-threatening condition with a high fatality rate and severe sequelae.However,there is currently no treatment available for intracerebral hemorrhage,unlike for other stroke subtypes.Recent studies have indicated that mitochondrial dysfunction and mitophagy likely relate to the pathophysiology of intracerebral hemorrhage.Mitophagy,or selective autophagy of mitochondria,is an essential pathway to preserve mitochondrial homeostasis by clearing up damaged mitochondria.Mitophagy markedly contributes to the reduction of secondary brain injury caused by mitochondrial dysfunction after intracerebral hemorrhage.This review provides an overview of the mitochondrial dysfunction that occurs after intracerebral hemorrhage and the underlying mechanisms regarding how mitophagy regulates it,and discusses the new direction of therapeutic strategies targeting mitophagy for intracerebral hemorrhage,aiming to determine the close connection between mitophagy and intracerebral hemorrhage and identify new therapies to modulate mitophagy after intracerebral hemorrhage.In conclusion,although only a small number of drugs modulating mitophagy in intracerebral hemorrhage have been found thus far,most of which are in the preclinical stage and require further investigation,mitophagy is still a very valid and promising therapeutic target for intracerebral hemorrhage in the long run.
基金supported by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney(R01-DK121970)to Dr.Feng Li.
文摘Alcoholic liver disease(ALD)encompasses a range of conditions resulting from prolonged and excessive alcohol consumption,causing liver damage such as alcoholic fatty liver,inflammation,fibrosis,and cirrhosis.Alcohol consumption contributes to millions of deaths each year.So far,the effective treatments for ALD are limited.To date,the most effective treatment for ALD is still prevention by avoiding excessive alcohol consumption,and only few specialized medicines are in the market for the treatment of patients suffering from ALD.Small molecules targeting various pathways implicated in ALD pathogenesis can potentially be used for effective therapeutics development.In this review,we provide a concise overview of the latest research findings on potential therapeutic targets,specifically emphasizing small-molecule interventions for the treatment and prevention of ALD.