Electroacupuncture improves myocardial fibrosis in heart failure rats by attenuating ECM collagen deposition through modulation of TGF-β1/Smads signaling pathway

Background: To explore the effects of electroacupuncture on cardiac function and myocardial fibrosis in rat models of heart failure, and to elucidate the underlying mechanism of electroacupuncture in heart failure treatment. Methods: Healthy male Sprague-Dawley rats were allocated into three groups: Sham group, Model group, and electroacupuncture (Model + EA) group, with each group comprising 8 rats. The model underwent a procedure involving the ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery to induce a model of heart failure. The Model + EA group was used for 7 consecutive days for electroacupuncture of bilateral Shenmen (HT7) and Tongli (HT5), once a day for 30 min each time. Left ventricular parameters in rats were assessed using a small-animal ultrasound machine to analyze changes in left ventricular end-diastolic volume, left ventricular end-systolic volume, left ventricular ejection fraction, and left ventricular fractional shortening. Serum interleukin-1β (IL-1β), cardiac troponin (cTn), and N-terminal brain natriuretic peptide precursor levels were measured using ELISA. Histopathological changes in rat myocardium were observed through HE staining, while collagen deposition in rat myocardial tissue was assessed using the Masson staining method. Picro sirius red staining, immunohistochemical staining, and RT-qPCR were utilized to distinguish between the various types of collagen deposition. The expression level of TGF-β1 and SMAD2/3/4/7 mRNA in rat myocardial tissues was determined using RT-qPCR. Additionally, western blot analysis was conducted to assess the protein expression levels of TGF-β1, SMAD3/7, and p-SMAD3 in rat myocardial tissues. Results: Compared with the Sham group, the left ventricular ejection fraction and left ventricular fractional shortening values of the Model group were significantly decreased (P < 0.01);the left ventricular end-diastolic volume and left ventricular end-systolic volume values were remarkably increased (P < 0.01);serum N-terminal brain natriuretic peptide precursor content was increased (P < 0.01);serum IL-1β and cTn levels were increased (P < 0.01);myocardial collagen volume fraction were increased (P < 0.01);and those of the expression of TGF-β1 and SMAD2/3/4 mRNA was increased (P < 0.01);the expression of SMAD7 mRNA was decreased (P < 0.01);the protein expression levels of TGF-β1, SMAD3, and p-Smad3 were increased (P < 0.01);the protein expression level of SMAD7 was decreased (P < 0.01) in the Model group. Compared to the Model group, the expression levels of the proteins TGF-β1, SMAD3, and p-Smad3 in myocardial tissue were found to be decreased (P < 0.01), and the expression level of the protein SMAD7 was found to be increased (P < 0.01) in the Model + EA group;the collagen volume fraction and deposition of type Ⅰ /Ⅲ collagen were decreased (P < 0.01) in the Model + EA group. Conclusion: Electroacupuncture alleviates myocardial fibrosis in rats with heart failure, and this effect is likely due to attributed to the modulation of the TGF-β1/Smads signaling pathway, which helps reduce collagen deposition in the extracellular matrix.

The Epstein-Barr virus-miRNA-BART6-5p regulates TGF-β/SMAD4 pathway to induce glycolysis and enhance proliferation and metastasis of gastric cancer cells

Background:EBV-miR-BARTs exhibit significant relevance in epithelial tumors,particularly in EBVassociated gastric and nasopharyngeal cancers.However,their specific mechanisms in the initiation and progression of gastric cancer remain insufficiently explored.Material and Methods:Initially,EBV-miRNA-BART6-5p and its target gene SMAD4 expression were assessed in EBV-associated gastric cancer tissues and cell lines.Subsequent transfection induced overexpression of EBV-miRNA-BART6-5p in AGS and MKN-45,and downregulation in EBVpositive cells(SUN-719).The subsequent evaluation aimed to observe their impact on gastric cancer cell proliferation,migration,and glycolytic processes,with the TGF-β/SMAD4 signaling pathway value clarified using a TGF-βinhibitor.Results:EBV-miRNA-BART6-5p exhibits pronounced upregulation in EBV-associated gastric cancer tissues and EBV-positive cells,while its target gene SMAD4 demonstrates downregulated expression.Upregulation of it can promote the proliferation and migration of gastric cancer cells.Additionally,We found EBV-miRNA-BART6-5p promotes glycolysis of gastric cancer cells.Inhibition of the TGF-β/SMAD4 signaling pathway resulted in suppressed proliferation and migration of gastric cancer cells,concomitant with a diminished glycolytic capacity.Conclusion:In this study,we found that EBV-miRNA-BART6-5p can target SMAD4,effectively increasing glycolysis in gastric cancer cells by regulating the TGF-β/SMAD4 signaling pathway,thereby enhancing the proliferation and metastasis of gastric cancer cells.Our findings may offer new insights into the metabolic aspects of gastric cancer.

Exploring the interaction between the gut microbiota and cyclic adenosine monophosphate-protein kinase A signaling pathway:a potential therapeutic approach for neurodegenerative diseases

The interaction between the gut microbiota and cyclic adenosine monophosphate(cAMP)-protein kinase A(PKA)signaling pathway in the host's central nervous system plays a crucial role in neurological diseases and enhances communication along the gut–brain axis.The gut microbiota influences the cAMP-PKA signaling pathway through its metabolites,which activates the vagus nerve and modulates the immune and neuroendocrine systems.Conversely,alterations in the cAMP-PKA signaling pathway can affect the composition of the gut microbiota,creating a dynamic network of microbial-host interactions.This reciprocal regulation affects neurodevelopment,neurotransmitter control,and behavioral traits,thus playing a role in the modulation of neurological diseases.The coordinated activity of the gut microbiota and the cAMP-PKA signaling pathway regulates processes such as amyloid-β protein aggregation,mitochondrial dysfunction,abnormal energy metabolism,microglial activation,oxidative stress,and neurotransmitter release,which collectively influence the onset and progression of neurological diseases.This study explores the complex interplay between the gut microbiota and cAMP-PKA signaling pathway,along with its implications for potential therapeutic interventions in neurological diseases.Recent pharmacological research has shown that restoring the balance between gut flora and cAMP-PKA signaling pathway may improve outcomes in neurodegenerative diseases and emotional disorders.This can be achieved through various methods such as dietary modifications,probiotic supplements,Chinese herbal extracts,combinations of Chinese herbs,and innovative dosage forms.These findings suggest that regulating the gut microbiota and cAMP-PKA signaling pathway may provide valuable evidence for developing novel therapeutic approaches for neurodegenerative diseases.

Crosstalk among canonical Wnt and Hippo pathway members in skeletal muscle and at the neuromuscular junction

Skeletal muscles are essential for locomotion,posture,and metabolic regulation.To understand physiological processes,exercise adaptation,and muscle-related disorders,it is critical to understand the molecular pathways that underlie skeletal muscle function.The process of muscle contra ction,orchestrated by a complex interplay of molecular events,is at the core of skeletal muscle function.Muscle contraction is initiated by an action potential and neuromuscular transmission requiring a neuromuscular junction.Within muscle fibers,calcium ions play a critical role in mediating the interaction between actin and myosin filaments that generate force.Regulation of calcium release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum plays a key role in excitation-contraction coupling.The development and growth of skeletal muscle are regulated by a network of molecular pathways collectively known as myogenesis.Myogenic regulators coordinate the diffe rentiation of myoblasts into mature muscle fibers.Signaling pathways regulate muscle protein synthesis and hypertrophy in response to mechanical stimuli and nutrient availability.Seve ral muscle-related diseases,including congenital myasthenic disorders,sarcopenia,muscular dystrophies,and metabolic myopathies,are underpinned by dys regulated molecular pathways in skeletal muscle.Therapeutic interventions aimed at preserving muscle mass and function,enhancing regeneration,and improving metabolic health hold promise by targeting specific molecular pathways.Other molecular signaling pathways in skeletal muscle include the canonical Wnt signaling pathway,a critical regulator of myogenesis,muscle regeneration,and metabolic function,and the Hippo signaling pathway.In recent years,more details have been uncovered about the role of these two pathways during myogenesis and in developing and adult skeletal muscle fibers,and at the neuromuscular junction.In fact,research in the last few years now suggests that these two signaling pathways are interconnected and that they jointly control physiological and pathophysiological processes in muscle fibers.In this review,we will summarize and discuss the data on these two pathways,focusing on their concerted action next to their contribution to skeletal muscle biology.However,an in-depth discussion of the noncanonical Wnt pathway,the fibro/a dipogenic precursors,or the mechanosensory aspects of these pathways is not the focus of this review.

Inhibition of the cGAS–STING pathway:contributing to the treatment of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury

The cGAS–STING pathway plays an important role in ischemia-reperfusion injury in the heart,liver,brain,and kidney,but its role and mechanisms in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury have not been systematically reviewed.Here,we outline the components of the cGAS–STING pathway and then analyze its role in autophagy,ferroptosis,cellular pyroptosis,disequilibrium of calcium homeostasis,inflammatory responses,disruption of the blood–brain barrier,microglia transformation,and complement system activation following cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury.We further analyze the value of cGAS–STING pathway inhibitors in the treatment of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury and conclude that the pathway can regulate cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury through multiple mechanisms.Inhibition of the cGAS–STING pathway may be helpful in the treatment of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury.

Netrin-1 signaling pathway mechanisms in neurodegenerative diseases

Netrin-1 and its receptors play crucial roles in inducing axonal growth and neuronal migration during neuronal development.Their profound impacts then extend into adulthood to encompass the maintenance of neuronal survival and synaptic function.Increasing amounts of evidence highlight several key points:(1)Diminished Netrin-1 levels exacerbate pathological progression in animal models of Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease,and potentially,similar alterations occur in humans.(2)Genetic mutations of Netrin-1 receptors increase an individuals’susceptibility to neurodegenerative disorders.(3)Therapeutic approaches targeting Netrin-1 and its receptors offer the benefits of enhancing memory and motor function.(4)Netrin-1 and its receptors show genetic and epigenetic alterations in a variety of cancers.These findings provide compelling evidence that Netrin-1 and its receptors are crucial targets in neurodegenerative diseases.Through a comprehensive review of Netrin-1 signaling pathways,our objective is to uncover potential therapeutic avenues for neurodegenerative disorders.

C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 pathway as a therapeutic target and regulatory mechanism for spinal cord injury

Spinal cord injury involves non-reversible damage to the central nervous system that is characterized by limited regenerative capacity and secondary inflammatory damage.The expression of the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis exhibits significant differences before and after injury.Recent studies have revealed that the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis is closely associated with secondary inflammatory responses and the recruitment of immune cells following spinal cord injury,suggesting that this axis is a novel target and regulatory control point for treatment.This review comprehensively examines the therapeutic strategies targeting the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis,along with the regenerative and repair mechanisms linking the axis to spinal cord injury.Additionally,we summarize the upstream and downstream inflammatory signaling pathways associated with spinal cord injury and the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis.This review primarily elaborates on therapeutic strategies that target the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis and the latest progress of research on antagonistic drugs,along with the approaches used to exploit new therapeutic targets within the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis and the development of targeted drugs.Nevertheless,there are presently no clinical studies relating to spinal cord injury that are focusing on the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis.This review aims to provide new ideas and therapeutic strategies for the future treatment of spinal cord injury.

Neuropeptide Y promotes TGF-β1 production in RAW264.7 cells by activating PI3K pathway via Y1 receptor

Objective To examine the effect of neuropeptide Y （NPY） on TGF-β1 production in RAW264.7 macrophages. Methods Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay （ELISA） was used to detect TGF-β1 production. Cell counting kit 8 （CCK-8） was used to assay the viability of RAW264.7 cells. Western blot was used to detect the phosphorylation of PI3K p85. Results NPY treatment could promote TGF-β1 production and rapid phosphorylation of PI3K p85 in RAW264.7 cells via Y1 receptor. The elevated TGF-β 1 production induced by NPY could be abolished by wortrnannin pretreatment. Conclusion NPY may elicit TGF-β production in RAW264.7 cells via Y1 receptor, and the activated PI3K pathway may account for this effect.

金雀异黄素通过调控TGF-β1/Smad3信号通路对2型糖尿病大鼠心肌纤维化的影响

目的 探讨金雀异黄素减轻糖尿病大鼠心肌纤维化的作用及潜在机制。方法 通过高脂饮食结合腹腔注射链脲菌素(STZ)法建立大鼠2型糖尿病(T2DM)模型,并随机分为模型组、二甲双胍组(100 mg/kg)及金雀异黄素低、高剂量组(50、100 mg/kg),另设正常组给予常规饮食,每组10只。各给药组灌胃给药8周,检测体质量、心功能、心脏质量及心脏指数,血清CK-MB、AST及LDH活性,观察心肌纤维化程度,心肌组织转化生长因子-β1(TGF-β1)、Smad同源物3(Smad3)mRNA和蛋白表达,心肌组织Ⅰ型胶原(CollagenⅠ)和Ⅲ型胶原(CollagenⅢ)蛋白分布及表达。结果 与模型组比较,金雀异黄素各剂量组大鼠体质量、每搏输出量(SV)及射血分数(EF)升高(P<0.01),心脏指数、左心室收缩末期内径(LVIDs)、血清肌酸激酶同工酶(CK-MB)、天冬氨酸氨基转移酶(AST)、乳酸脱氢酶(LDH)活性降低(P<0.05,P<0.01),心肌组织胶原相对面积及CollagenⅠ、CollagenⅢ蛋白表达均降低(P<0.05,P<0.01),心肌组织TGF-β1、Smad3 mRNA和蛋白表达降低(P<0.05,P<0.01),金雀异黄素高剂量组左心室舒张末期内径(LVIDd)降低(P<0.05)。结论 金雀异黄素可通过抑制TGF-β1/Smad3信号通路,减轻2型糖尿病大鼠心肌纤维化作用,进而发挥保护心脏效应。

虎杖苷通过抑制TGF-β/Smad信号通路改善动脉粥样硬化大鼠动脉粥样硬化斑块和内皮炎症反应

目的:探讨虎杖苷通过抑制转化生长因子β(TGF-β)/Smad信号通路对动脉粥样硬化(AS)大鼠AS斑块和内皮炎症反应的改善作用。方法:将60只大鼠随机分成空白对照组、模型对照组、虎杖苷低、中、高剂量组和阳性对照组,每组10只。正常对照组大鼠用普通饲料喂养,其余各组大鼠采用高脂饲料喂养与维生素D3腹腔注射联合的方法制备AS大鼠模型。虎杖苷低、中、高剂量组大鼠每天灌胃虎杖苷40、80、160 mg/kg,阳性对照组大鼠每天灌胃辛伐他汀5 mg/kg,模型对照组和空白对照组大鼠每天灌胃等量生理盐水。给药结束后,油红O染色观察大鼠主动脉AS斑块形成情况;全自动生化分析仪检测大鼠三酰甘油(TG)、总胆固醇(TC)、低密度脂蛋白胆固醇(LDL-C)、高密度脂蛋白胆固醇(HDL-C)水平;酶联免疫吸附法检测大鼠血清中肿瘤坏死因子(TNF)-α、IL-6、IL-8、C反应蛋白(CRP)、单核细胞趋化蛋白1(MCP-1)、同型半胱氨酸(Hcy)、细胞间黏附分子1(ICAM-1)、内皮素-1(ET-1)含量;蛋白免疫印迹法检测大鼠TGF-β1、Smad2/3、p-Smad2/3蛋白表达水平。结果:与空白对照组相比,模型对照组大鼠主动脉内壁出现大量AS斑块,血清中TG、TC、LDL-C水平及TNF-α、IL-6、IL-8、CRP、MCP-1、Hcy、ICAM、ET-1含量明显升高,HDL-C水平明显降低,主动脉组织中TGF-β1蛋白表达、p-Smad2/3/Smad2/3显著升高(P<0.05)。虎杖苷干预后AS大鼠主动脉内壁斑块面积明显减小,血清中TG、TC、LDL-C水平及TNF-α、IL-6、IL-8、CRP、MCP-1、Hcy、ICAM、ET-1含量显著降低,HDL-C水平显著升高,主动脉组织中TGF-β1蛋白表达、p-Smad2/3/Smad2/3明显减小(P<0.05),以上指标变化均呈剂量依赖性(P<0.05)。阳性对照组TC、LDL-C、HDL-C水平与虎杖苷高剂量组无明显差异(P>0.05),其余指标均比虎杖苷高剂量组更低(P<0.05)。结论:虎杖苷通过调节血脂、降低细胞炎症因子的表达,从而减少AS斑块的形成,改善AS大鼠体内的炎症反应,其机制与抑制TGF-β/Smad信号通路激活有关。

超脉冲二氧化碳点阵激光治疗对凹陷性痤疮瘢痕TGF-β、EGF及bFGF水平变化的影响

目的 研究超脉冲二氧化碳点阵激光治疗对凹陷性痤疮瘢痕转化生长因子-β(TGF-β)、表皮生长因子(EGF)、碱性成纤维细胞生长因子(bFGF)水平变化的影响。方法 选取2020年4月至2022年2月于自贡市第一人民医院就诊的凹陷性痤疮瘢痕患者104例,依据治疗方案分为对照组(n=51,常规手术治疗)和观察组(n=53,超脉冲二氧化碳点阵激光治疗)。比较两组临床疗效、皮肤情况、血管内皮因子(TGF-β、EGF、bFGF)水平、复发及不良反应发生率。结果 观察组临床总有效率(84.91%)高于对照组(62.75%),差异有统计学意义(P<0.05)。治疗后,两组紫质、纹理、色素斑、毛孔评分均下降,且观察组上述评分均比对照组低,差异有统计学意义(P<0.05)。治疗后,观察组TGF-β、bFGF水平比对照组高,EGF水平比对照组低,差异有统计学意义(P<0.05)。观察组复发率比对照组低,差异有统计学意义(P<0.05)。观察组不良反应总发生率(19.61%)比对照组低(5.66%),差异有统计学意义(P<0.05)。结论 应用超脉冲二氧化碳点阵激光治疗凹陷性痤疮瘢痕患者疗效显著,可有效改善瘢痕组织中的TGF-β、EGF、bFGF表达水平,安全性良好。

基于TGF-β/BMP/Smad信号通路治疗激素性股骨头坏死中医药研究进展

激素性股骨头坏死(steroid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head,SIONFH)是由于糖皮质激素使用不当或过度而引起的髋关节疾病,发病机制尚未统一,临床疗效亦不佳。当前,没有效果明确的药物可以延缓疾病进程,而中医药治疗SIONFH在临床上取得一定疗效。即便如此,仍未能完整的从分子生物及细胞生物学角度阐明中药治疗SIONFH的作用机制。转化生长因子-β(TGF-β)/骨形态发生蛋白(BMP)/Smad信号通路的转导是防治SIONFH的研究热点之一,故该文阐明了该信号通路的转导机制以及与SIONFH的联系,检索了基于该通路治疗SIONFH的全部中药及复方并阐述其影响机制。基于中医对SIONFH的认识,现临床上使用补肝肾强筋骨以及活血祛瘀通络类的方药治疗SIONFH,且具有良好的疗效。中药通过调控该通路,可刺激骨髓间充质干细胞成骨分化,降低破骨细胞含量,减少脂肪生成,改善微循环,抗氧化损伤,促进股骨头内血管新生,从而促进股骨头损伤的修复。现基于TGF-β/BMP/Smad信号通路对中医药治疗SIONFH的研究进展做一综述,期许为中医药治疗SIONFH提供理论依据及参考。

益气养阴通络汤联合贝那普利治疗糖尿病肾病疗效及对血清TGF-β1、VEGF指标影响

目的探讨益气养阴通络汤联合贝那普利治疗糖尿病肾病(diabetic nephropathy,DN)的疗效及对转化生长因子-β_(1)(transforming growth factor-β_(1),TGF-β_(1)),血管内皮生长因子(vascular endothelial growth factor,VEGF)影响。方法选取2019年10月—2021年10月医院收治的DN病人94例,随机分为对照组(n=48)和观察组(n=46)。入院后两组病人均实施生活方式相关的指导,包括体质量控制、运动、戒烟酒等,给予脂质的代谢紊乱相关纠正、血糖控制、血压等基础的治疗,对照组实施盐酸贝那普利片的口服治疗,观察组则在此基础上实施益气养阴通络汤治疗,两组持续治疗4周。对比两组临床疗效、尿微量白蛋白(microalbumin,mALB)、尿白蛋白肌酐比(urine albumin creatine ratio,UACR)、β_(2)微球蛋白(β_(2)-microglobulin,β_(2)-MG)水平、中医证候评分、血清同型半胱氨酸(homocysteine,Hcy)、肿瘤坏死因子-α(tumor necrosis factor-α,TNF-α)、白细胞介素-6(Interleukin-6,IL-6)、血清TGF-β_(1)和VEGF及空腹血糖(fasting plasma glucose/fasting blood glucose,FPG)、餐后2 h血糖(2 hour postprandial blood glucose,2 h PG)和糖化血红蛋白(glyeosylated hemoglobin,HbAlc)指标变化。结果治疗前两组mALB、UACR、β_(2)-MG指标间无统计学意义(P>0.05);治疗后两组mALB、UACR、β_(2)-MG指标较治疗前显著降低(P<0.05);并且观察组降低较明显(P<0.05);观察组治疗总有效率较对照组明显较高(P<0.05);治疗后两组主症评分、次症评分和中医证候总评分明显降低(P<0.05);且观察组降低较明显(P<0.05);治疗后两组血清Hcy、TNF-α、IL-6指标明显降低(P<0.05);且观察组降低较明显(P<0.05);治疗后两组血清TGF-β_(1)和VEGF指标较治疗前明显降低(P<0.05);且观察组降低较明显(P<0.05);治疗后两组FPG、2 h PG和HbAlc指标较治疗前明显降低(P<0.05);且观察组降低较明显(P<0.05)。结论采用益气养阴通络汤联合贝那普利治疗DN具有较好的临床疗效,可降低血清TGF-β_(1),VEGF指标,降低蛋白尿水平。

基于miRNA21-5p调控TGF-β1/Smads信号通路探讨苓桂气化方抗射血分数保留心力衰竭心肌纤维化的机制

目的基于miRNA21-5p调控转化生长因子-β1(transforming growth factor beta 1,TGF-β1)/Smads信号通路探讨苓桂气化方抗射血分数保留心力衰竭(heart failure with preserved ejection fraction,HFpEF)心肌纤维化的机制。方法40只4周龄自发性高血压大鼠(spontaneously hypertensive rats,SHR)平均分为HFpEF组、沙库巴曲缬沙坦组(LCZ696,0.018 g·kg^(-1))、苓桂气化方低剂量组(LGQH-L,3.87 g·kg^(-1))和苓桂气化方高剂量组(LGQH-H,7.74 g·kg^(-1)),给予高脂、高盐及高糖饮食16周及腹腔注射链脲霉素溶液8周建立HFpEF大鼠模型。10只威斯塔京都(Wistar Kyoto,WKY)大鼠和10只SHR大鼠作为对照组,以普通饲料喂养至实验结束。造模成功后,WKY、SHR和HFpEF组给予等剂量生理盐水,其他3组按照预先规定的干预措施,每天灌胃1次,持续6周。干预结束后,行超声心动图测量左心室(left ventricle,LV)前壁厚度(LV end-diastolic anterior wall thickness,LVAWd)、LV后壁厚度(LV end-diastolic posterior wall thickness,LVPWd)、LV舒张末内径(LV end-diastolic internal diameter,LVIDd)、LV射血分数(LV ejection fraction,LVEF)、LV舒张早期二尖瓣流入峰值速度(E)、舒张晚期二尖瓣流入峰值速度(A)和LV舒张早期二尖瓣环运动速度(e'),并计算E/A和E/e';酶联免疫吸附试验检测血清心房钠尿肽(atrial natriuretic peptide,ANP)、B型利钠肽(B-type brain natriuretic peptide,BNP)及半乳糖凝集素3(Galectin-3,Gal-3);病理切片进行苏木精伊红及马松染色观察心肌肥厚及纤维化,并计算LV室壁厚度(LV wall thickness,LVWT)、胶原体积分数(collagen volume fraction,CVF)及血管周围纤维化比率(perivascular fibrosis ratio,PFR);实时定量聚合酶链反应检测LV心肌miRNA21-5p及TGF-β1/Smads信号通路相关mRNA表达;蛋白印迹检测LV心肌TGF-β1/Smads信号通路相关蛋白表达。结果与对照组比较,HFpEF组的LVAWd、LVPWd、LVIDd、E/A、E/e'、ANP、BNP、Gal-3、LVWT、CVF和PFR显著升高(P<0.05或P<0.01);LV心肌miR-NA21-5,α-SMA、CollⅠ、CollⅢ、TGF-β1、Smad2、Smad3 mRNA表达和α-SMA、CollⅠ、CollⅢ、TGF-β1、P-Smad2/3蛋白表达显著上调(P<0.05或P<0.01);Smad7 mRNA及蛋白表达显著下调(P<0.05或P<0.01)。与HFpEF组比较,苓桂气化方呈剂量依赖性减少LVAWd、LVPWd、LVIDd、E/A、E/e'、ANP、BNP、Gal-3、LVWT、CVF和PFR(P<0.05或P<0.01);下调miRNA21-5p,α-SMA、CollⅠ、CollⅢ、TGF-β1、Smad2、Smad3 mRNA表达和α-SMA、CollⅠ、GF-β1、P-Smad2/3蛋白表达(P<0.05或P<0.01);上调Smad7 mRNA及蛋白表达(P<0.05或P<0.01)。结论苓桂气化方可能通过靶向miRNA21-5p调控TGF-β1/Smads信号通路抑制心肌纤维化,从而减轻HFpEF大鼠LV重塑和舒张功能障碍,是治疗HFpEF的有效中药复方。

脂联素干预对宫腔粘连大鼠子宫内膜组织中NLRP3、TGF-β1和Smad2表达的影响

目的:探讨脂联素干预对宫腔粘连大鼠子宫内膜组织中NLRP3、TGF-β1和Smad2表达的影响。方法:健康雌性SD大鼠24只采用双重损伤法建立宫腔粘连模型后,随机平均分为模型组(腹腔注射生理盐水1 mL/d)和脂联素组[腹腔注射脂联素蛋白10μg/(kg·d)+生理盐水1 mL/d],连续干预14 d;12只未造模大鼠为正常对照组。末次给药后,麻醉大鼠,收取子宫组织,HE染色及Masson染色法检测子宫内膜腺体数量和纤维化面积百分比,免疫组化、Western blot及RT-qPCR法检测NLRP3、TGF-β1及Smad2蛋白和mRNA的表达。结果:正常对照组、模型组和脂联素组子宫内膜腺体数分别为(55.1±5.6)、(13.8±4.5)和(33.7±7.8),纤维化面积百分比分别为(5.39±0.65)%、(65.18±1.92)%和(38.16±1.91)%;与正常对照组比较,模型组腺体数减少,纤维化面积百分比增加(P<0.05);与模型组比较,脂联素组腺体数增加,纤维化面积百分比减少(P<0.05)。模型组和脂联素组子宫内膜组织中NLRP3、TGF-β1和Smad2蛋白和mRNA的表达均高于正常对照组(P<0.05);脂联素组低于模型组(P<0.05)。结论:脂联素可能通过抑制NLRP3炎症小体的激活和TGF-β1/Smad2信号通路,减轻宫腔粘连大鼠子宫内膜炎症,从而抑制纤维化进展。

miR-544靶向TGF-β抑制神经胶质母细胞瘤细胞迁移、侵袭及EMT

目的探究miR-544在神经胶质母细胞瘤(glioblastoma,GBM)上皮-间质转化(epithelial-mesenchymal transition,EMT)过程中的作用及机制。方法采用RT-qPCR检测miR-544及TGF-β在GBM组织和癌旁组织、GBM转移与非转移的病人血清中的表达。在GBM细胞系U251中转染MiR-544 mimics。采用Transwell、Western boltting检测细胞迁移及侵袭,EMT相关蛋白(E-cadherin和N-cadherin)的变化。荧光素酶报告基因验证miR-544与TGF-β基因3’UTR区结合。结果miR-544在GBM组织及转移组中表达显著降低;TGF-β显著升高(P<0.05)。荧光素酶报告证实miR-544靶向调节TGF-β3’-UTR区域。miR-544 mimics组及si-TGF-β组与NC组相比,细胞迁移与侵袭数目减少(P<0.05);E-cadherin蛋白表达增加,N-cadherin蛋白表达减少(P<0.05)。miR-544mimics+pcDNA-TGF-β组部分逆转了miR-544 mimics对细胞迁移与侵袭和EMT相关蛋白的表达的作用(P<0.05)。结论miR-544靶向调控TGF-β是其参与EMT过程的作用机制之一。

姜黄素通过调控TGF-β1/Smad信号通路抑制恶性胶质瘤生长的作用机制

目的探究姜黄素对恶性胶质瘤生长的影响及可能机制。方法以人恶性胶质瘤细胞U87为研究对象,随机分为空白对照组(无任何干预)、姜黄素低、中、高(10、20、40μmol·L^(-1))、替莫唑胺组(40μmol·L^(-1))、姜黄素40μmol·L^(-1)+LY210976110μmol·L^(-1)、姜黄素40μmol·L^(-1)+SRI-01138110μmol·L^(-1),干预48 h。CCK-8法、Transwell法对各组U87细胞活性、迁移及侵袭能力测定,经由流式细胞术测定U87细胞周期变化,Western blot法测定U87细胞TGF-β1/Smad信号通路相关蛋白表达水平。结果姜黄素组与替莫唑胺组干预48 h后U87细胞活性百分比、细胞迁移及侵袭数目均低于空白对照组(P<0.05),且均随姜黄素剂量增大而下降(P<0.05)。对比空白对照组,姜黄素组及替莫唑胺组Sub-G_(0)期细胞数增多(P<0.05),G_(2)/M期细胞数减少(P<0.05)。姜黄素高剂量组及替莫唑胺组U87细胞TGF-β1、p-Smad 3、N-钙黏蛋白(N-cadherin)、基质金属蛋白酶(matrix metalloproteinase,MMP)-2、MMP-9蛋白相对表达量均低于空白对照组(P<0.05),Smad 7、E-钙黏蛋白(E-cadherin)蛋白相对表达量均高于空白对照组(P<0.05)。姜黄素高剂量组与替莫唑胺组各指标对比差异均无统计学意义(P>0.05)。相比姜黄素高剂量组,TGF-β1/Smad通路抑制剂能进一步抑制U87细胞活性、迁移及侵袭,降低TGF-β1、p-Smad 3、MMP-2、MMP-9蛋白相对表达量(P<0.05),提高Smad 7、E-cadherin蛋白相对表达量(P<0.05),而TGF-β1/Smad通路激活剂反之(P<0.05)。结论姜黄素能抑制恶性胶质瘤U87细胞生长,其机制可能与调控TGF-β1/Smad信号通路相关。

METTL3调控miR-126介导TGF-β/Smad信号通路影响糖尿病肾病的机制研究

目的:建立糖尿病肾病(Diabetes Kidney Disease,DKD)大鼠模型,探讨METTL3调控糖尿病肾病的作用机制。方法:将SD大鼠适应性喂养7d后,按照随机数字法分为4组,正常对照组(Control组)、糖尿病肾病模型组(DKD组)、糖尿病肾病模型+METTL3干扰对照组(DKD+NC组)和糖尿病肾病模型+METTL3干扰组(DKD+siMETTL3组),每组8只。造模结束后收集大鼠血液标本及肾脏组织,采用全自动生化分析仪分析空腹血糖(Fasting blood glucose,FBG)、尿素氮(Blood urea nitrogen,BUN)、24h尿蛋白(Uridine triphosphate,UTP)的表达水平,RT-qPCR法检测miR-126的基因表达,ELISA检测TGF-β1的表达,Western blotting检测METTL3、smad2、smad3、smad7的蛋白水平。结果:与Control组相比,DKD组的FBG、BUN、UTP、TGF-β1、METTL3、smad2、smad3显著升高(P<0.05),体质量、miR-126、smad7显著降低(P<0.05);与DKD组比较,DKD+siMETTL3组的FBG、BUN、UTP、TGF-β1、METTL3、smad2、smad3显著降低(P<0.05),体质量、miR-126、smad7显著升高(P<0.05)。结论:METTL3可以通过调控miR-126及TGF-β/smad通路,介导DKD的进展。

基于TGF-β1/CD147信号探讨慢性束缚应激促小鼠乳腺癌进展及逍遥散调节机制研究

目的基于TGF-β1/CD147信号探讨慢性束缚应激促小鼠乳腺癌进展及逍遥散调节机制。方法40只BABL/c小鼠随机分为移植瘤组(Tumor)、模型组(Model)、逍遥散组(Xiaoyaosan)和米非司酮组(Mifepristone),将4T1细胞株接种于各组小鼠腋下,待成瘤后,除Tumor组外其余各组小鼠均进行慢性束缚应激21天,同时Xiaoyaosan组和Mifepristone组小鼠给予相对应的药物灌胃,Tumor组和Model组小鼠灌胃生理盐水。造模结束后,小鼠麻醉断头处死,测量小鼠瘤体重量和体积、内脏指数;采用ELISA方法检测各组小鼠血清肿瘤标志物糖类抗原ca199(Carbohydrate antigen199,CA199)、癌胚抗原(Carcino-embryonic antigen,CEA)、血管内皮生长因子(Vascular endothelial growth factor,VEGF)的含量,血清多巴胺(Dopamine,DA)和皮质酮(Corticosterone,CORT)的含量,以及肿瘤组织转化生长因子β1(Transforming growth factor-β1,TGF-β1)和白介素10(Interleukin 10,IL-10)的含量。采用免疫组化和Western blot方法检测各组小鼠肿瘤组织巨噬细胞极化标志物诱导型一氧化氮合酶(Inducible nitric oxide synthase,iNOS)和精氨酸酶1(Arginase-1,Arg-1)的表达,以及肿瘤组织中细胞外基质金属蛋白酶诱导剂(Extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer,EMMPRIN,CD147)及其下游信号分子基质金属蛋白酶2(Matrix metalloproteinases 2),MMP2、基质金属蛋白酶9(MMP9)和VEGF的表达。结果与Tumor组比较,Model组小鼠肿瘤重量和体积,血清CA199、CEA、VEGF、CORT含量,肿瘤TGF-β1和IL-10含量均显著增加;内脏指数和血清DA含量显著减少;肿瘤巨噬细胞M2型极化标志物Arg-1的表达显著增加,M1型极化标志物iNOS的表达显著降低;肿瘤CD147及其下游信号分子MMP2、MMP9和VEGF蛋白表达显著增加,逍遥散和米非司酮均可有效逆转以上改变。结论慢性束缚应激促小鼠乳腺癌进展的机制与肿瘤相关巨噬细胞M2型极化释放TGF-β1增加、激活CD147及其下游相关信号有关,而逍遥散可缓解应激条件下皮质酮增高引起的巨噬细胞M2型极化,减少TGF-β1的生成,抑制CD147及其下游信号,从而抑制慢性应激引起的小鼠乳腺癌进展。

Signaling cross-talk between TGF-β/BMP and other pathways

Transforming growth factor-beta （TGF-β）/bone morphogenic protein （BMP） signaling is involved in the vast majority of cellular processes and is fundamentally important during the entire life of all metazoans. Deregulation of TGF-β/ BMP activity almost invariably leads to developmental defects and/or diseases, including cancer. The proper functioning of the TGF-β/BMP pathway depends on its constitutive and extensive communication with other signaling pathways, leading to synergistic or antagonistic effects and eventually desirable biological outcomes. The nature of such signaling cross-talk is overwhelmingly complex and highly context-dependent. Here we review the different modes of cross-talk between TGF-β/BMP and the signaling pathways of Mitogen-activated protein kinase, phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase/ Akt, Wnt, Hedgehog, Notch, and the interleukin/interferon-gamma/tumor necrosis factor-alpha cytokines, with an emphasis on the underlying molecular mechanisms.