Single-nuclei RNA sequencing uncovers heterogenous transcriptional signatures in Parkinson's disease associated with nuclear receptor-related factor 1 defect

Previous studies have found that deficiency in nuclear receptor-related factor 1(Nurr1),which participates in the development,differentiation,survival,and degeneration of dopaminergic neurons,is associated with Parkinson s disease,but the mechanism of action is perplexing.Here,we first asce rtained the repercussion of knocking down Nurr1 by pe rforming liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry.We found that 231 genes were highly expressed in dopaminergic neurons with Nurr1 deficiency,14 of which were linked to the Parkinson’s disease pathway based on Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis.To better understand how Nurr1 deficiency autonomously invokes the decline of dopaminergic neurons and elicits Parkinson’s disease symptoms,we performed single-nuclei RNA sequencing in a Nurr1 LV-shRNA mouse model.The results revealed cellular heterogeneity in the substantia nigra and a number of activated genes,the preponderance of which encode components of the major histocompatibility Ⅱ complex.Cd74,H2-Ab1,H2-Aα,H2-Eb1,Lyz2,Mrc1,Slc6α3,Slc47α1,Ms4α4b,and Ptprc2 were the top 10 diffe rentially expressed genes.Immunofluorescence staining showed that,after Nurr1knockdown,the number of CD74-immunoreactive cells in mouse brain tissue was markedly increased.In addition,Cd74 expression was increased in a mouse model of Parkinson’s disease induced by treatment with 6-hydroxydopamine.Ta ken togethe r,our res ults suggest that Nurr1 deficiency results in an increase in Cd74 expression,thereby leading to the destruction of dopaminergic neuro ns.These findings provide a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease.

Up-regulation of intestinal nuclear factor kappa B and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 following traumatic brain injury in rats

AIM: Nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) regulates a large number of genes involved in the inflammatory response to critical illnesses, but it is not known if and how NF-KB is activated and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) expressed in the gut following traumatic brain injury (TBI). The aim of current study was to investigate the temporal pattern of intestinal NF-κB activation and ICAM-1 expression following TBI. METHODS: Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups (6 rats in each group) including controls with sham operation and TBI groups at hours 3, 12, 24, and 72, and on d 7. Parietal brain contusion was adopted using weight-dropping method. All rats were decapitated at corresponding time point and mid-jejunum samples were taken. NF-KB binding activity in jejunal tissue was measured using EMSA. Immunohistochemistry was used for detection of ICAM-1 expression in jejunal samples. RESULTS: There was a very low NF-κB binding activity and little ICAM-1 expression in the gut of control rats after sham surgery. NF-KB binding activity in jejunum significantly increased by 160% at 3 h following TBI (P<0.05 vs control), peaked at 72 h (500% increase) and remained elevated on d 7 post-injury by 390% increase. Compared to controls, ICAM-1 was significantly up-regulated on the endothelia of microvessels in villous interstitium and lamina propria by 24 h following TBI and maximally expressed at 72 h post-injury (P<0.001). The endothelial ICAM-1 immunoreactivity in jejunal mucosa still remained strong on d 7 post-injury. The peak of NF-κB activation and endothelial ICAM-1 expression coincided in time with the period during which secondary mucosal injury of the gut was also at their culmination following TBI. CONCLUSION: TBI could induce an immediate and persistent up-regulation of NF-κB activity and subsequent up-regulation of ICAM-1 expression in the intestine. Inflammatory response mediated by increased NF-κB activation and ICAM-1 expression may play an important role in the pathogenesis of acute gut mucosal injury following TBI.

Effects of L-3-n-butylphthalide on caspase-3 and nuclear factor kappa-B expression in primary basal forebrain and hippocampal cultures after beta-amyloid peptide 1-42 treatment

BACKGROUND： L-3-n-butylphthalide （L-NBP） can inhibit phosphorylation of tau protein and reduce the neurotoxicity of beta-amyloid peptide 1-42 （Aβ1-42）. OBJECTIVE： To observe the neuroprotective effects of L-NBP on caspase-3 and nuclear factor kappa-B （NF- K B） expression in a rat model of Alzheimer＇s disease. DESIGN, TIME AND SETTING： A cell experiment was performed at the Central Laboratory of Provincial Hospital affiliated to Shandong University between January 2008 and August 2008. MATERIALS： L-NBP （purity 〉 98%） was provided by Shijiazhuang Pharma Group NBP Pharmaceutical Company Limited. Aβ1-42, 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazolo-2]-2,5 iphenyltetrazolium bromide （MTT）, and rabbit anti-Caspase-3 polyclonal antibody were provided by Cell Signaling, USA; goat anti-choactase and rabbit anti-NF- kB antibodies were provided by Santa Cruz, USA. METHODS： Primary cultures were generated from rat basal forebrain and hippocampal neurons at 17 or 19 days of gestation. The cells were assigned into five groups： the control group, the Aβ1-42 group （2 μmol/L）, the Aβ1-42 ＋ 0.1 μmol/L L-NBP group, the Aβ1-42 ＋ 1 μ mol/L L-NBP group, and the Aβ1-42 ＋ 10μmol/L L-NBP group. The neurons were treated with Aβ1-42 （2 μmol/L） alone or in combination with L-NBP （0.1, 1, 10 μmol/L） for 48 hours. Cells in the control group were incubated in PBS. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES： Morphologic changes were evaluated using inverted microscopy, viability using the M-I-I- method, and the changes in caspase-3 and NF- k B expression using Western blot. RESULTS： Induction with Aβ1-42 for 48 hours caused cell death and soma atrophy, and increased caspase-3 and NF- K B expression （P 〈 0.05）. L-NBP blocked these changes in cell morphology, decreased caspase-3 and NF- k B expression （P 〈 0.05）, and improved cell viability, especially at the high dose （P 〈 0.05）. CONCLUSION： AI3^-42 is toxic to basal forebrain and hippocampal primary neurons; L-NBP protects against this toxicity and inhibits the induction of caspase-3 and NF- K B expression.

Effect of Sirpα1 on the expression of nuclear factor-kappa B in hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND:Signal regulatory protein alpha1(Sirpα1) is a member of Sirps families containing four immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motifs(ITIMs) domains in the cytoplasm of and an activated substrate of receptor tyrosine kinase(RTK),that negatively regulates the RTK-dependent cell proliferating signal transduction pathway.Previously we found that Sirpα1 was closely associated with the occurrence and development of hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)as well as liver regeneration.Since it is unclear about the regulatory mechanisms,we established the cell line transfected Sirpα1 gene and preliminarily clarified the mechanisms by which Sirpα1 negatively regulates the carcinogenesis and development of HCC. METHODS:Liver cancer Sk-Hep1 cell was respectively transfected with plasmids of pLXSN,pLXSN-Sirpα1 and pLXSN-Sirpα1Δ4Y 2 ,screened with the drug of G418(1200 μg/ml),and various transfected Sk-Hep1 cell lines were obtained.The protein expressions of P65,P50,IκBα,cyclin D1 and Fas in various Sk-Hep1 cell lines were determined by Western blotting,and P65 and P50 were localized by the immunofluorescence technique. RESULTS:Sirpα1 could significantly upregulate the protein expression of IκBα(vs.other cell lines,P<0.05) in the Sk-Hep1 cell,and downregulate the protein expressions of P65,P50 and cyclin D1(vs.other cell lines, P<0.05)in the Sk-Hep1 cell.P65 protein expression was mainly localized in the cytoplasm in the pLXSN Sk-Hep1 cell,and in the nucleus of the Sk-Hep1 cell with mutantSirpα1Δ4Y 2 ,but in nucleus of the Sk-Hep1 cell with wild Sirpα1.P50 protein expression was localized in the cytoplasm and nucleus of the pLXSN Sk-Hep1 cell,but in the nucleus of the Sk-Hep1 cell with wild Sirpα1 and mutant Sirpα1Δ4Y 2 plasmid. CONCLUSIONS:Sirpα1 might negatively regulate and control the abnormal proliferation of liver cancer cells by influencing the protein content and localization of nuclear factor-kappa B,then influence the expression of cyclins such as cyclin D1 in the signal transduction pathway.It may be one of the important mechanisms by which Sirpα1 negatively regulates the carcinogenesis and development of HCC.

Hypidone hydrochloride(YL-0919)ameliorates functional deficits after traumatic brain injury in mice by activating the sigma-1 receptor for antioxidation

Traumatic brain injury involves complex pathophysiological mechanisms,among which oxidative stress significantly contributes to the occurrence of secondary injury.In this study,we evaluated hypidone hydrochloride(YL-0919),a self-developed antidepressant with selective sigma-1 receptor agonist properties,and its associated mechanisms and targets in traumatic brain injury.Behavioral experiments to assess functional deficits were followed by assessment of neuronal damage through histological analyses and examination of blood-brain barrier permeability and brain edema.Next,we investigated the antioxidative effects of YL-0919 by assessing the levels of traditional markers of oxidative stress in vivo in mice and in vitro in HT22 cells.Finally,the targeted action of YL-0919 was verified by employing a sigma-1 receptor antagonist(BD-1047).Our findings demonstrated that YL-0919 markedly improved deficits in motor function and spatial cognition on day 3 post traumatic brain injury,while also decreasing neuronal mortality and reversing blood-brain barrier disruption and brain edema.Furthermore,YL-0919 effectively combated oxidative stress both in vivo and in vitro.The protective effects of YL-0919 were partially inhibited by BD-1047.These results indicated that YL-0919 relieved impairments in motor and spatial cognition by restraining oxidative stress,a neuroprotective effect that was partially reversed by the sigma-1 receptor antagonist BD-1047.YL-0919 may have potential as a new treatment for traumatic brain injury.

Nuclear factor κB represses the expression of latent membrane protein 1 in Epstein-Barr virus transformed cells

AIM: To investigate the role of nuclear factor κB(NF-κB) in the regulation of Epstein-Barr virus(EBV) latent membrane protein 1(LMP1) in EBV transformed cells. METHODS: LMP1 expression was examined in EBV transformed human B lymphocytes with modulation of NF-κB activity. RESULTS: EBV infection is associated with several human cancers. EBV LMP1 is required for efficient transformation of adult primary B cells in vitro, and is expressed in several pathogenic stages of EBVassociated cancers. Regulation of EBV LMP1 involves both viral and cellular factors. LMP1 activates NF-κB signaling pathway that is a part of the EBV transformation program. However, the relation between NF-κB and LMP1 expression is not well established yet. In this report, we found that blocking the NF-κB activity by Inhibitor of κB stimulated LMP1 expression, while the overexpression of NF-κB repressed LMP1 expression in EBV-transformed IB4 cells. In addition, LMP1 repressed its own promoter activities in reporter assays, and the repression was associated with the activation of NF-κB. Moreover, NF-κB alone is sufficient to repress LMP1 promoter activities. CONCLUSION: Our data suggest LMP1 may repress its own expression through NF-κB in EBV transformed cells and shed a light on LMP1 regulation during EBV transformation.

Sinapic acid ameliorates D-galactosamine/lipopolysaccharideinduced fulminant hepatitis in rats:Role of nuclear factor erythroidrelated factor 2/heme oxygenase-1 pathways

BACKGROUND Sinapic acid(SA)has been shown to have various pharmacological properties such as antioxidant,antifibrotic,anti-inflammatory,and anticancer activities.Its mechanism of action is dependent upon its ability to curb free radical production and protect against oxidative stress-induced tissue injuries.AIM To study the hepatoprotective effects of SA against lipopolysaccharide(LPS)/Dgalactosamine(D-GalN)-induced acute liver failure(ALF)in rats.METHODS Experimental ALF was induced with an intraperitoneal(i.p.)administration of 8μg LPS and 800 mg/kg D-GalN in normal saline.SA was administered orally once daily starting 7 d before LPS/D-GalN treatment.RESULTS Data showed that SA ameliorates acute liver dysfunction,decreases serum levels of alanine transaminase(ALT),and aspartate aminotransferase(AST),as well as malondialdehyde(MDA)and NO levels in ALF model rats.However,pretreatment with SA(20 mg/kg and 40 mg/kg)reduced nuclear factor kappalight-chain-enhancer of activated B cells(NF-κB)activation and levels of inflammatory cytokines(tumor necrosis factor-αand interleukin 6).Also,SA increased the activity of the nuclear factor erythroid-related factor 2/heme oxygenase-1(Nrf2/HO-1)signaling pathway.CONCLUSION In conclusion,SA offers significant protection against LPS/D-GalN-induced ALF in rats by upregulating Nrf2/HO-1 and downregulating NF-κB.

Increased Expression and Activity of MMP-9 in C-reactive Protein-induced Human THP-1 Mononuclear Cells Is Related to Activation of Nuclear Factor Kappa-B

The relation between the expression and activity of MMP-9 in C-reactive protein （CRP）-induced human THP-1 mononuclear cells and the activation of nuclear factor kappa-B （NF-κB） was studied to investigate the possible role of CRP in plaque destabilization. Human THP-1 cells were incubated in the presence of CRP at 0 （control group）, 25, 50 and 100 μg/mL （CRP groups） for 24 h. In PDTC （a specific NF-κB inhibitor） group, the cells were pre-treated with PDTC at 10 μmol/L and then with 100 μg/mL CRP. The conditioned media （CM） and human THP-1 cells in different groups were harvested. MMP-9 expression in CM and human THP-1 cells was measured by ELISA and Western blotting. MMP-9 activity was assessed by fluorogenic substrates. The expression of NF-κB inhibitor α （IκB-α） and NF-κB p65 was detected by Western blotting and ELISA respectively. The results showed that CRP increased the expression and activity of MMP-9 in a dose-dependent manner in the human THP-1 cells. Western blotting revealed that IiB-α expression was decreased in the cells with the concentrations of CRP and ELISA demonstrated that NF-κB p65 expression in the CRP-induced cells was increased. After pre-treatment of the cells with PDTC at 10 μmol/L, the decrease in IκB-α expression and the increase in NF-κB p65 expression in the CRP-induced cells were inhibited, and the expression and activity of MMP-9 were lowered too. It is concluded that increased expression and activity of MMP-9 in CRP-induced human THP-1 cells may be associated with activation of NF-κB. Down-regulation of the expression and activity of MMP-9 may be a new treatment alternative for plaque stabilization by inhibiting the NF-κB activation.

Assessment of Axial Power Peaking Factors in GHARR-1 LEU Core: A Decadal Simulation Analysis

This study aims to thoroughly investigate the axial power peaking factors (PPF) within the low-enriched uranium (LEU) core of the Ghana Research Reactor-1 (GHARR-1). This study uses advanced simulation tools, like the MCNPX code for analysing neutron behavior and the PARET/ANL code for understanding power variations, to get a clearer picture of the reactor’s performance. The analysis covers the initial six years of GHARR-1’s operation and includes projections for its whole 60-year lifespan. We closely observed the patterns of both the highest and average PPFs at 21 axial nodes, with measurements taken every ten years. The findings of this study reveal important patterns in power distribution within the core, which are essential for improving the safety regulations and fuel management techniques of the reactor. We provide a meticulous approach, extensive data, and an analysis of the findings, highlighting the significance of continuous monitoring and analysis for proactive management of nuclear reactors. The findings of this study not only enhance our comprehension of nuclear reactor safety but also carry significant ramifications for sustainable energy progress in Ghana and the wider global context. Nuclear engineering is essential in tackling global concerns, such as the demand for clean and dependable energy sources. Research on optimising nuclear reactors, particularly in terms of safety and efficiency, is crucial for the ongoing advancement and acceptance of nuclear energy.

Transcription factors specificity protein and nuclear receptor 4A1 in pancreatic cancer

Specificity protein(Sp)transcription factors(TFs)Sp1,Sp3 and Sp4,and the orphan nuclear receptor 4A1(NR4A1)are highly expressed in pancreatic tumors and Sp1 is a negative prognostic factor for pancreatic cancer patient survival.Results of knockdown and overexpression of Sp1,Sp3 and Sp4 in pancreatic and other cancer lines show that these TFs are individually pro-oncogenic factors and loss of one Sp TF is not compensated by other members.NR4A1 is also a prooncogenic factor and both NR4A1 and Sp TFs exhibit similar functions in pancreatic cancer cells and regulate cell growth,survival,migration and invasion.There is also evidence that Sp TFs and NR4A1 regulate some of the same genes including survivin,epidermal growth factor receptor,PAX3-FOXO1,α5-andα6-integrins,β1-,β3-andβ4-integrins;this is due to NR4A1 acting as a cofactor and mediating NR4A1/Sp1/4-regulated gene expression through GC-rich gene promoter sites.Several studies show that drugs targeting Sp downregulation or NR4A1 antagonists are highly effective inhibitors of Sp/NR4A1-regulated pathways and genes in pancreatic and other cancer cells,and the triterpenoid celastrol is a novel dual-acting agent that targets both Sp TFs and NR4A1.

Hepatocyte nuclear factor 1B mutation in a Chinese family with renal cysts and diabetes syndrome:A case report

BACKGROUND Renal cysts and diabetes(RCAD)syndrome is an autosomal dominant diabetic renal disease.Precise molecular diagnosis of RCAD syndrome has proven valuable for understanding its mechanism and personalized therapy.CASE SUMMARY A RCAD patient and her family were studied to investigate potential responsible genes by the whole exome sequencing(WES).Candidate pathogenic variants were validated by Sanger sequencing.The clinical characteristics of RCAD patient were collected from medical records.Unlike those typical RCAD patients,we observed renal manifestation and prediabetes phenotype,but not reproductive organ phenotype and hypomagnesaemia.A novel 7-bp deletion mutation in exon 4 of the hepatocyte nuclear factor 1B,NM_000458:c.882_888del(p.V294fs),was identified by WES and confirmed by Sanger sequencing.CONCLUSION This novel mutation identified in a Chinese family with RCAD syndrome might be the molecular pathogenic basis of this disorder.

Effect of nuclear factor-κB and angiotensin Ⅱ receptor type 1 on the pathogenesis of rat non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

AIM: To investigate the roles of nuclear factor(NF)-κB and angiotensin Ⅱ receptor type 1(AT1R) in the pathogenesis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD).METHODS: Forty-two healthy adult male SpragueDawley rats were randomly divided into three groups:the control group(normal diet), the model group,and the intervention group(10 wk of a high-fat diet feeding, followed by an intraperitoneal injection of PDTC); 6 rats in each group were sacrificed at 6, 10,and 14 wk. After sacrifice, liver tissue was taken,paraffin sections of liver tissue specimens were prepared, hematoxylin and eosin(HE) staining was performed, and pathological changes in liver tissue(i.e., liver fibrosis) were observed by light microscopy.NF-κB expression in liver tissue was detected by immunohistochemistry, and the expression of AT1 R in the liver tissue was detected by reverse transcriptionpolymerase chain reaction(RT-PCR). The data are expressed as mean ± SD. A two-sample t test was used to compare the control group and the model group at different time points, paired t tests were used to compare the differences between the intervention group and the model group, and analysis of variance was used to compare the model group with the control group. Homogeneity of variance was analyzed with single factor analysis of variance. H variance analysis was used to compare the variance. P < 0.05 wasconsidered statistically significant.RESULTS: The NAFLD model was successful after 6wk and 10 wk. Liver fibrosis was found in four rats in the model group, but in only one rat in the intervention group at 14 wk. Liver steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis were gradually increased throughout the model. In the intervention group, the body mass,rat liver index, serum lipid, and transaminase levels were not increased compared to the model group.In the model group, the degree of liver steatosis was increased at 6, 10, and 14 wk, and was significantly higher than in the control group(P < 0.01). In the model group, different degrees of liver cell necrosis were visible and small leaves, punctated inflammation,focal necrosis, and obvious ballooning degeneration were observed. Partial necrosis and confluent necrosis were observed. In the model group, liver inflammatory activity scores at 6, 10, and 14 wk were higher than in the control group(P < 0.01). Active inflammation in liver tissue in the intervention group was lower than in the model group(P < 0.05). HE staining showed liver fibrosis only at 14 wk in 4/6 rats in the model group and in 1/6 rats in the intervention group. NF-κB positive cells were stained yellow or ensemble yellow,and NF-κB was localized in the cytoplasm and/or nucleus. The model group showed NF-κB activation at6, 10, and 14 wk in liver cells; at the same time points,there were statistically significant differences in the control group(P < 0.01). Over time, NF-κB expression increased; this was statistically lower(P < 0.05) at14 weeks in the intervention group compared to the model group, but significantly increased(P < 0.05)compared with the control group; RT-PCR showed that AT1 R mRNA expression increased gradually in the model group; at 14 wk, the expression was significantly different compared with expression at 10 weeks as well as at 6 weeks(P < 0.05). In the model group, AT1 R mRNA expression was significantly higher than at the same time point in the control group(P <0.01).CONCLUSION: With increasing severity of NAFLD,NF-κB activity is enhanced, and the inhibition of NF-κB activity may reduce AT1 R mRNA expression in NAFLD.

Gamma-glutamyl transferase 5 overexpression in cerebrovascular endothelial cells improves brain pathology,cognition,and behavior in APP/PS1 mice

In patients with Alzheimer’s disease,gamma-glutamyl transferase 5(GGT5)expression has been observed to be downregulated in cerebrovascular endothelial cells.However,the functional role of GGT5 in the development of Alzheimer’s disease remains unclear.This study aimed to explore the effect of GGT5 on cognitive function and brain pathology in an APP/PS1 mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease,as well as the underlying mechanism.We observed a significant reduction in GGT5 expression in two in vitro models of Alzheimer’s disease(Aβ_(1-42)-treated hCMEC/D3 and bEnd.3 cells),as well as in the APP/PS1 mouse model.Additionally,injection of APP/PS1 mice with an adeno-associated virus encoding GGT5 enhanced hippocampal synaptic plasticity and mitigated cognitive deficits.Interestingly,increasing GGT5 expression in cerebrovascular endothelial cells reduced levels of both soluble and insoluble amyloid-βin the brains of APP/PS1 mice.This effect may be attributable to inhibition of the expression ofβ-site APP cleaving enzyme 1,which is mediated by nuclear factor-kappa B.Our findings demonstrate that GGT5 expression in cerebrovascular endothelial cells is inversely associated with Alzheimer’s disease pathogenesis,and that GGT5 upregulation mitigates cognitive deficits in APP/PS1 mice.These findings suggest that GGT5 expression in cerebrovascular endothelial cells is a potential therapeutic target and biomarker for Alzheimer’s disease.

Unexpected discovery of 2 cases of hepatocyte nuclear factor 1α-mutated infracentimetic adenomatosis

We present 2 cases of hepatocyte nuclear factor 1α (HNF1α)-mutated adenomatosis, discovered for reasons unrelated to this disease, and identified using immunohistochemical methods. These new tools may further our understanding of the link between adenomas/adenomatosis subtypes and their complications, and their association with other abnormalities.

Metformin attenuates angiotensin II induced cardiac fibrosis and transforming growth factor-β1 production through the inhibition of hepatocyte nuclear factor4

Aim In diabetic patients, metformin appears to provide cardiovascular protection that cannot be attribu- ted only to its antihyperglycemic effects. Metformin is also known as the AMP-activated protein kinase （AMPK） ac- tivator. Our previous study suggested that metformin inhibits transforming growth factor-β1 （TGF-β1） production in a mouse heart failure model of pressure overload. TGF-β1 is a key factor in cardiac fibrosis and is usually induced by Angiotensin Ⅱ （Ang Ⅱ ） in the pressure overload mouse models. This study investigated the effect of metformin on cardiac fibrosis and TGF-β production induced by AngII and the underlying mechanisms. Methods C57/BL6 wild-type and AMPKα2 knockout mice were used. AngII （3 mg · kg-1 · d-1） was infused subcutaneously into mice for 7 days. Adult mouse cardiac fibroblasts were isolated and treated with AngII （ 1 μmol · L-1） and/or met- formin （1 mmol · L-l）. Results In C57/BL6 mice, metformin inhibits AngII-induced cardiac fibrosis. In cardi-ac fibroblasts, metformin inhibits TGF-β1 expression and production induced by AngII. AMPK inhibitor, com- pound C, reversed the effects of metformin. In vivo, AMPKα2 deficiency further increases AngII-induced TGF-β1 production. In cardiac fibroblasts, metformin inhibited AngII induced hepatocyte nuclear factor4 （HNF4ot protein level increase and HNF4α binding with TGF-β1 promoter using chromatin immunoprecipitation assay. In vivo, AMPKα2 deficiency further increased AngII-induced HNF4α protein level. Using HNF4α adenovirus, overexpress- ing HNF4α led to a 1.5-fold increase in TGF-β1 mRNA expression. HNF4a siRNA blocked AngII induced TGF- β1 production. Luciferase reporter with deleted HNF4a binding sites showed decreased TGFbl transcriptional activ- ity induced by AngII. In AMPK or2-/- heart, the inhibition of metformin on HNF4a protein was attenuated. Con- clusion Metformin inhibits AngII induced cardiac fibrosis and TGF-β1 production through AMPK activation. The underlying mechanism is that AMPK activation inhibits AngII induced HNF4α and then decreases TGF-β1 expres- sion.

EXPRESSION CHANGES OF NUCLEAR FACTOR κBp65 AND CYCLIND1 IN 4-NITROQUINOLINE 1-OXIDE-INDUCED RAT TONGUE CARCINOGENESIS

Objective To observe the different expression of NF-kBp65 and cyclinD1 during oral carcinogenesis and to analyze the relationship between the abnormal expression of NF-kBp65 , cyclinD1, and the occurrence and development of oral carcinogenesis. Methods The streptavidin-biotin-peroxidase （S-P） immunohistochemical method was employed to detect the expression of NF-kBp65 and cyclinD1 protein in 38 rat tongue carcinogenesis specimens induced by 4-nitroquinoline 1-oxide. Results With the progress of tongue carcinogenesis, the expression of NF-kBp65, cyclinD1 was up-regulated. In normal, mild epithelial dysplasia, moderate epithelial dysplasia, severe epithelial dysplasia, carcinoma in situ and squamous cell carcinoma （SCC）, the positive rate of NF-kBp65 was 20%, 20%, 50%, 62.5%, 50% and 83.33%, respectively. There was significant differences between normal and SCC （ P 〈 0. 05 ） ; while the level of cyclinD1 was 20%, 60%, 62. 5%, 87. 5% , 100% and 83. 33%, respec- tively. There was significant differences between normal and severe epithelial dysplasia, carcinoma in situ and SCC （ P 〈0.01 or P 〈 0. 05 ）. There was a significant correlation between the increased levels of NF-kBp65, cyclinD1 and histopathological grade. The positive expression of NF-kBp65 was also associated with cyclinD1 in SCC （ r = 0. 7353, P 〈 0. 05 ）. Conclusion The up-expression of NF-kBp65 and cyclinD1 protein may be correlated to the occurrence and the development of oral carcinoma ; activated NF-kB plays an important role in the overexpression of cyclinD1. Furthermore, NF-kB and cyclinD1 may be the useful biomarker of oral precancerous lesion.

姜酮通过激活Nrf2/HO-1信号通路减轻OGD/R后氧化应激损伤对HT22细胞凋亡的抑制作用

目的:探讨姜酮对氧糖剥夺/复糖复氧(OGD/R)后小鼠海马神经元HT22细胞的保护作用,阐明其相关作用机制。方法:培养HT22细胞,设置不同OGD/R时间梯度,建立OGD/R细胞损伤模型。HT22细胞分为对照组、OGD/R组、OGD/R+1μmol·L^(-1)姜酮组、OGD/R+10μmol·L^(-1)姜酮、OGD/R+100μmol·L^(-1)姜酮组和OGD/R+0.2%二甲亚枫(DMSO)组,CCK-8法检测各组细胞活性并计算各组细胞存活率,确定姜酮最适药物浓度。细胞分为对照组、OGD/R组、OGD/R+姜酮组和OGD/R+姜酮+核因子E2相关因子2(Nrf2)抑制剂(ML385)组,OGD/R+姜酮组细胞经姜酮给药处理4 h后予以OGD 8 h和复糖复氧8 h处理,OGD/R+姜酮+ML385组细胞在姜酮给药前予以10μmol·L^(-1)ML385预处理6 h,CCK-8法检测各组细胞活性,Western blotting法检测各组细胞中Nrf2、血红素加氧酶1(HO-1)、B细胞淋巴瘤2(Bcl-2)和Bcl-2相关X蛋白(Bax)蛋白表达水平,酶联免疫吸附试验(ELISA)法检测各组细胞培养上清中超氧化物歧化酶(SOD)活性和丙二醛(MDA)水平。结果:与对照组比较,HT22细胞经OGD 8 h和复糖复糖8 h处理后细胞存活率低于50%,以OGD 8 h和复糖复糖8 h建立HT22细胞OGD/R模型。与OGD/R组比较,OGD/R+不同剂量姜酮组细胞存活率均不同程度升高,其中OGD/R+100μmol·L^(-1)姜酮组细胞存活率升高最明显(P<0.01),故选用100μmol·L^(-1)姜酮用于后续实验。与对照组比较,OGD/R组细胞活性明显降低(P<0.01),细胞中Nrf2、HO-1和Bax蛋白表达水平明显升高(P<0.01),Bcl-2蛋白表达水平明显降低(P<0.05),细胞培养上清中SOD活性明显降低(P<0.01),MDA水平明显升高(P<0.01);与OGD/R组比较,OGD/R+姜酮组细胞活性明显升高(P<0.01),细胞中Nrf2、HO-1和Bcl-2蛋白表达水平明显升高(P<0.05或P<0.01),Bax蛋白表达水平明显降低(P<0.05),细胞培养上清中SOD活性明显升高(P<0.01),MDA水平明显降低(P<0.01);与OGD/R+姜酮组比较,OGD/R+姜酮+ML385组细胞活性明显降低(P<0.01),细胞中Nrf2、HO-1和Bcl-2蛋白表达水平明显降低(P<0.01),Bax蛋白表达水平明显升高(P<0.01),细胞培养上清中SOD活性明显降低(P<0.01),MDA水平明显升高(P<0.05)。结论:姜酮可通过激活Nrf2/HO-1信号通路减轻OGD/R后氧化应激损伤对HT22细胞凋亡的抑制作用。

槲皮素预处理ALI大鼠肺组织损伤、炎症/氧化应激反应、铁死亡及Nrf2/HO-1信号通路激活情况观察

目的观察槲皮素灌胃预处理的LPS诱导急性肺损伤(ALI)大鼠肺组织损伤、炎症反应、氧化应激反应、铁死亡及Nrf2/HO-1信号通路激活情况,以探讨槲皮素对ALI的预防作用及机制。方法24只SD大鼠分为槲皮素低、中、高剂量组和阳性对照组(地塞米松)、模型组、正常对照组。槲皮素低、中、高剂量组以25、50、100 mg/kg槲皮素灌胃,1次/天,连续7 d;槲皮素灌胃处理的第4天在大鼠气管内滴注5 mg/kg LPS;阳性对照组以地塞米松1.04 mg/kg灌胃,其余处理同槲皮素组;模型组以生理盐水灌胃,1次/天,连续7天,其余处理同槲皮素组;正常对照组以生理盐水连续灌胃7 d。末次灌注给药后,观察各组肺组织损伤(肺功能及肺组织病理改变、纤维组织阳性表达率、肺泡上皮细胞凋亡率)、炎症反应(肺泡灌洗液TNF-α、IL-6、IL-1β)、氧化应激反应(肺泡灌洗液SOD、GSH、MDA,肺组织ROS)、铁死亡(Fe^(2+)水平)及Nrf2/HO-1信号通路激活[肺组织核因子红细胞2相关因子2(Nfr2)、血红素加氧酶1(HO-1)、超氧化物歧化酶2(SOD2)、过氧化氢酶(CAT)蛋白]情况。结果与正常对照组比较,模型组PaCO_(2)水平升高,PaO_(2)、SaO_(2)水平降低(P均<0.01);肺组织可见肺泡上皮细胞变性坏死,纤维组织阳性表达率高;肺泡上皮细胞凋亡率高;肺泡灌洗液中TNF-α、IL-6、IL-1β水平均升高,SOD、GSH水平降低,MDA水平升高,肺组织ROS表达水平升高,肺泡灌洗液中Fe^(2+)水平升高(P均<0.05)。与模型组相比,槲皮素中、高剂量组和阳性对照组中PaCO_(2)均降低(P均<0.05),槲皮素高剂量组PaO_(2)和SaO_(2)水平升高(P均<0.05);槲皮素高剂量组与阳性对照组肺组织炎性浸润与纤维增生明显减少,肺泡恢复正常生理结构;槲皮素低、中、高剂量组和阳性对照组肺纤维组织阳性表达率均下降(P均<0.05),其中槲皮素高剂量组肺纤维组织阳性表达率最低;槲皮素低、中、高剂量组和阳性对照组肺泡上皮细胞凋亡率均降低(P均<0.01);槲皮素低、中、高剂量组和阳性对照组肺泡灌洗液中TNF-α、IL-6、IL-1β水平均降低、SOD、GSH水平升高、MDA水平降低,肺组织ROS表达水平降低(P均<0.01),肺泡灌洗液中Fe^(2+)水平降低。与正常对照组比较,模型组肺组织中CAT、HO-1、Nrf2、SOD2蛋白表达水平低(P均<0.01);与模型组比较,槲皮素中、高剂量组和阳性对照组肺组织中CAT、HO-1、Nrf2、SOD2蛋白表达水平高(P均<0.05)。结论槲皮素灌胃预处理的ALI大鼠肺组织损伤、炎症反应、氧化应激反应、铁死亡情况减轻,Nfr2/HO-1信号通路激活;槲皮素灌胃预处理可预防LPS诱导的大鼠ALI,可能通过抑制炎症反应、氧化应激反应及铁死亡而起作用;槲皮素可能通过上调Nfr2/HO-1信号通路而抑制炎症反应、氧化应激反应及铁死亡;50、100 mg/kg槲皮素均对LPS诱导的大鼠ALI起预防作用,以100 mg/kg槲皮素的作用效果更佳。

Keap1/Nrf2信号通路在非小细胞肺癌氧化应激机制中的作用

目的检测非小细胞肺癌(NSCLC)组织中Kelch样环氧氯丙烷相关蛋白-1(Keap1)、核因子E2相关因子2(Nrf2)蛋白表达水平,分析其与临床病理参数、氧化应激指标的相关性,为临床治疗提供潜在靶点。方法选取2017年4月至2020年4月郑州市第三人民医院收治的100例NSCLC患者为研究对象,免疫组化法检测并比较癌组织、癌旁组织中Keap1、Nrf2蛋白表达水平;比较不同临床病理参数患者Keap1、Nrf2蛋白表达水平;比较不同Keap1、Nrf2蛋白表达患者血清超氧化物歧化酶(SOD)、诱导型一氧化氮合酶(iNOS)、丙二醛(MDA)水平,并采用Spearman法分析SOD、i NOS、MDA与临床病理参数的相关性,采用Pearson法分析SOD、iNOS、MDA与Keap1、Nrf2蛋白水平的的相关性;比较不同Keap1、Nrf2蛋白表达患者的生存率。结果癌组织、癌旁组织Keap1蛋白阳性率分别为77.00%、53.00%,Nrf2蛋白阳性率分别为74.00%、45.00%,Keap1蛋白OD值分别为0.41±0.07、0.33±0.05,Nrf2蛋白OD值分别为0.39±0.06、0.31±0.06,癌组织Keap1、Nrf2蛋白阳性率及OD值明显高于癌旁组织,差异均有统计学意义(P<0.05);Keap1蛋白阳性表达与病理分级、T分期呈正相关(r=0.569、0.574,P<0.01),Nrf2蛋白阳性表达与病理分级、T分期呈正相关(r=0.527、0.539,P<0.01);Keap1蛋白阳性者、阴性者的血清SOD水平分别为(86.78±9.14)U/m L、(115.07±12.13)U/m L,MDA水平分别为(4.42±0.82)mmol/L、(3.24±0.56)mmol/L,i NOS水平分别为(22.74±4.31)U/m L、(15.59±3.02)U/mL,Nrf2蛋白阳性者、阴性者血清SOD水平分别为(84.94±9.12)U/mL、(117.06±12.37)U/mL,MDA水平分别为(4.48±0.85)mmol/L、(3.21±0.52)mmol/L,iNOS水平分别为(23.02±4.28)U/mL、(15.64±3.10)U/mL,Keap1、Nrf2蛋白阳性者血清SOD水平明显低于阴性者,MDA、iNOS水平明显高于阴性者,差异均有统计学意义(P<0.05);Keap1、Nrf2蛋白表达与SOD呈负相关(r=-0.612、-0.614,P<0.01),与MDA、iNOS呈正相关(r_(Keap1)=0.609、0.614,P<0.01;r_(Nrf2)=0.610、0.608,P<0.01);Keap1、Nrf2蛋白阳性表达者3年生存率为85.71%、83.78%,明显低于阴性表达者的95.65%、100.00%,差异均有统计学意义(P<0.05)。结论NSCLC组织中Keap1、Nrf2蛋白表达水平升高,且与病理分级、T分期密切相关,该信号通路活化可参与氧化应激反应过程,且对预判患者预后具有一定临床意义。

常压高浓度氧对新生大鼠脑微血管内皮细胞损伤与Nrf2/HO-1信号通路的影响分析

目的探究常压高浓度氧(NBO)对新生大鼠脑微血管内皮细胞损伤及核因子E2相关因子2/血红素氧合酶-1(Nrf2/HO-1)信号通路的影响。方法取新生SD大鼠45只,采用随机数字表法分为常氧组、NBO组和NBO+Nrf2激活剂组,每组各15只。常氧组大鼠置于普通空气(21%氧气)中饲养,NBO组和NBO+Nrf2激活剂组大鼠置于90%常压氧气饲养,NBO+Nrf2激活剂组每日灌胃5 mg/kg Nrf2激动剂莱菔硫烷。测定脑组织伊文思蓝(EB)含量,采用酶联免疫法检测血管内皮生长因子(VEGF)和基质金属蛋白酶9(MMP-9)含量,干湿重法检测脑组织含水量,HE染色和TUNEL染色观察脑组织病理变化,蛋白质印迹法检测海马组织Nrf2/HO-1信号通路蛋白表达,水迷宫检测大鼠认知功能。结果与常氧组比较,NBO组脑组织EB、VEGF、MMP-9含量及脑组织含水量升高,差异均有统计学意义(P<0.05);与NBO组比较,NBO+Nrf2激活剂组脑组织EB、VEGF、MMP-9含量及脑组织含水量降低,差异均有统计学意义(P<0.05)。病理染色结果显示,常氧组大鼠神经细胞形态及结构完整,未见明显病理变化和细胞凋亡;NBO组神经细胞形态及结构不规则,出现明显的水肿和空泡,并伴有大量的凋亡细胞;NBO+Nrf2激活剂组脑组织病理损伤较NBO组明显减轻。与常氧组比较,NBO组脑组织Nrf2、HO-1蛋白相对表达量降低,差异均有统计学意义(P<0.05);与NBO组比较,NBO+Nrf2激活剂组Nrf2、HO-1蛋白相对表达量升高,差异均有统计学意义(P<0.05)。与常氧组比较,NBO组第2~4天逃避潜伏期延长,穿越平台次数减少,差异均有统计学意义(P<0.05);与NBO组比较,NBO+Nrf2激活剂组第2~4天逃避潜伏期缩短,穿越平台次数增多,差异均有统计学意义(P<0.05)。结论NBO可诱导新生大鼠脑微血管内皮细胞损伤,导致远期认知功能障碍,可能与下调Nrf2/HO-1信号通路表达有关。