Total flavone of Abelmoschus manihot suppresses epithelial-mesenchymal transition via interfering transforming growth factor-β1 signaling in Crohn's disease intestinal fibrosis

AIM To explore the role and mechanism of total flavone of Abelmoschus manihot(TFA) on epithelial-mesenchymal transition(EMT) progress of Crohn's disease(CD) intestinal fibrosis.METHODS First,CCK-8 assay was performed to assess TFA on the viability of intestinal epithelial(IEC-6) cells and select the optimal concentrations of TFA for our further studies.Then cell morphology,wound healing and transwell assays were performed to examine the effect of TFA on morphology,migration and invasion of IEC-6 cells treated with TGF-β1.In addition,immunofluorescence,real-time PCR analysis(q RT-PCR) and western blotting assays were carried out to detect the impact of TFA on EMT progress.Moreover,western blotting assay was performed to evaluate the function of TFA on the Smad and MAPK signaling pathways.Further,the role of co-treatment of TFA and si-Smad or MAPK inhibitors has been examined by q RTPCR,western blotting,morphology,wound healing andtranswell assays.RESULTS In this study,TFA promoted transforming growth factor-β1(TGF-β1)-induced(IEC-6) morphological change,migration and invasion,and increased the expression of epithelial markers and reduced the levels of mesenchymal markers,along with the inactivation of Smad and MAPK signaling pathways.Moreover,we revealed that si-Smad and MAPK inhibitors effectively attenuated TGF-β1-induced EMT in IEC-6 cells.Importantly,co-treatment of TFA and si-Smad or MAPK inhibitors had better inhibitory effects on TGF-β1-induced EMT in IEC-6 cells than either one of them.CONCLUSION These findings could provide new insight into the molecular mechanisms of TFA on TGF-β1-induced EMT in IEC-6 cells and TFA is expected to advance as a new therapy to treat CD intestinal fibrosis.

Hsa_circRNA_102610 upregulation in Crohn’s disease promotes transforming growth factor-β1-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition via sponging of hsa-miR-130a-3p

BACKGROUND The incidence of inflammatory bowel disease,a chronic intestinal inflammatory disorder that includes Crohn’s disease(CD)and ulcerative colitis,is rising.Circular RNAs are considered valuable diagnostic biomarkers for CD.Current evidence supports the views that epithelial-mesenchymal transition(EMT)plays an important role in CD pathogenesis,and that hsa-miR-130a-3p can inhibit transforming growth factor-β1(TGF-β1)-induced EMT.Our previous study revealed that hsa_circRNA_102610 was upregulated in CD patients.Moreover,we predicted an interaction between hsa_circRNA_102610 and hsa-miR-130a-3p.Thus,we hypothesized that hsa_circRNA_102610 may play roles in the proliferation and EMT of intestinal epithelial cells by sponging hsa-miR-130a-3p to participate in the pathogenesis of CD.AIM To explore the mechanism of hsa_circRNA_102610 in the pathogenesis of CD.METHODS The relative expression levels of hsa_circRNA_102610 and hsa-miR-130a-3p in patients were detected by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction.The proliferation of human intestinal epithelial cells(HIECs)and normal-derived colon mucosa cell line 460(NCM460)cells was detected by cell counting kit-8,5-ethynyl-2’-deoxyuridine staining and cell cycle assays following overexpression or downregulation of hsa_circRNA_102610.Cell proliferation assays were performed as described above in a rescue experiment with hsa-miR-130a-3p mimics.The interaction of hsa_circRNA_102610 and hsa-miR-130a-3p was verified by fluorescence in situ hybridization and dual luciferase reporter assays.The relative expression levels of CyclinD1,mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 4(SMAD4),E-cadherin,N-cadherin and Vimentin were detected by western blotting following hsa_circRNA_102610 overexpression,TGF-β1-induced EMT or hsa-miR-130a-3p mimic transfection(in rescue experiments).RESULTS Upregulation of hsa_circRNA_102610 was determined to be positively correlated with elevated fecal calprotectin levels in CD(r=0.359,P=0.007)by Pearson correlation analysis.Hsa_circRNA_102610 promoted the proliferation of HIECs and NCM460 cells,while hsa-miR-130a-3p reversed the cell proliferationpromoting effects of hsa_circRNA_102610.Fluorescence in situ hybridization and dual luciferase reporter assays showed that hsa_circRNA_102610 directly bound hsa-miR-130a-3p in NCM460 and 293T cells.An inverse correlation between downregulation of hsa-miR-130a-3p and upregulation of hsa_circRNA_102610 in CD patients was observed(r=-0.290,P=0.024)by Pearson correlation analysis.Moreover,overexpression of hsa_circRNA_102610 promoted SMAD4 and CyclinD1 protein expression validated by western-blotting.Furthermore,overexpression of hsa_circRNA_102610 promoted TGF-β1 induced EMT in HIECs and NCM460 cells via targeting of hsa-miR-130a-3p,with increased expression of Vimentin and N-cadherin and decreased expression of E-cadherin.CONCLUSION Hsa_circRNA_102610 upregulation in CD patients could promote the proliferation and EMT of intestinal epithelial cells via sponging of hsa-miR-130a-3p.

Transforming growth factor-β1 and vascular endothelial growth factor levels in senile acute myeloid leukemia and correlation with prognosis

BACKGROUND Acute myeloid leukemia(AML)is a disease in which immature hematopoietic cells accumulate in the bone marrow and continuously expand,inhibiting hematopoiesis.The treatment and prognosis of this disease have always been unsatisfactory.AIM To investigate the correlation between vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF)and transforming growth factor-β1(TGFβ1)expression and prognosis in older adults with AML.METHODS This study enrolled 80 patients with AML(AML group),including 36 with complete response(AML-CR),23 with partial response(AML-PR),and 21 with no response(AML-NR).The expression levels of VEGF and TGFβ1 were detected by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction in bone marrow mononuclear cells isolated from 56 healthy controls.Kaplan-Meier analysis was performed to assess overall survival(OS)and progression-or disease-free survival(DFS).Prognostic risk factors were analyzed using a Cox proportional hazards model.RESULTS The AML group showed a VEGF level of 2.68±0.16.VEGF expression was lower in patients with AML-CR than those with AML-PR or AML-NR(P<0.05).TGFβ1 expression in the AML group was 0.33±0.05.Patients with AML-CR showed a higher TGFβ1 expression than those with AML-PR or AML-NR(P<0.05).VEGF and TGFβ1 expression in patients with AML was significantly correlated with the counts of leukocytes,platelets,hemoglobin,and peripheral blood immature cells(P<0.05);Kaplan-Meier survival analysis revealed that patients with high TGFβ1 expression had better OS and DFS than those with low TGFβ1 expression(P<0.05),whereas patients with low VEGF levels showed better OS and DFS than those with high VEGF levels(P<0.05).VEGF,TGFβ1,and platelet count were identified by the Cox proportional hazards model as independent risk factors for OS(P<0.05),while VEGF,TGFβ1,and white blood cell count were independent risk factors for DFS(P<0.05).CONCLUSION Decreased VEGF expression and increased TGFβ1 expression in patients with AML provide valuable references for determining and individualizing clinical treatment strategies.

Cross-talk between microRNA-let7c and transforming growth factor-β2 during epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition of retinal pigment epithelial cells

AIM: To explore the roles of microRNA-let7 c(miR-let7 c) and transforming growth factor-β2(TGF-β2) and cellular signaling during epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition(EMT) of retinal pigment epithelial cells. METHODS: Retinal pigment epithelial(ARPE-19) cells were cultured with no serum for 12 h, and then with recombinant human TGF-β2 for different lengths of time. ARPE-19 cells were transfected with 1×106 TU/mL miR-let7 c mimcs(miR-let7 cM), miR-let7 c mimcs negative control(miR-let7cMNC) and miR-let7 c inhibitor(miR-let7 cI) using the transfection reagent. The expression of keratin-18, vimentin, N-cadherin, IKB alpha, p65 were detected by Western blot, quantitative polymerase chain reaction and immunofluorescence. RESULTS: The expression of miR-let7c was dramatically reduced and the nuclear factor-kappa B(NF-κB) signaling pathway was activated after induction by TGF-β2(P<0.05). In turn, overexpressed miR-let7 c significantly inhibited TGF-β2-induced EMT(P<0.05). However, miR-let7 c was unable to inhibit TGF-β2-induced EMT when the NF-κB signaling pathway was inhibited by BAY11-7082(P<0.01). CONCLUSION: The miR-let7 c regulates TGF-β2-induced EMT through the NF-κB signaling pathway in ARPE-19 cells.

Expression of transforming growth factor-β_1 and its typeⅠ receptor in different phases of post-burn hypertrophic scars

Objective: To analyze and compare the expression pattern of the transforming growth factor-β1(TGF-β1) and its type I receptor (TGF-β RI ) in nounal human skin and various phases of post-burn hypertrophic scars (HTS). Method: The immunohistochemical ABC method was employed. Results: In nounal human skin, no evident immunoreactivity of TGF-β1 and TGF-β R I was observed. In activation phase of post-burn HTS, TGF-β R I and TGF-β1 were highly expressed in most dermal fibroblasts which seemed to be the same subset. However, in remission phase, no staining was seen in der mal fibroblasts. Conclusion: The formation of all may involve the increase of TGF-β responsiveness in fibroblasts The ac cumulation at the wound site and failure of apoptosis of over-resposive fibroblasts may contribute to the formation of HTS.

Effects of Heparin on Transforming Growth Factor-β_1 and Extracellular Matrix Components in the Glomeruli of Diabetic Rats

The effects of heparin on the expression of transforming growth factor-β 1 (TGF-β 1) and two extracellular matrix components laminin (LN) and fibronectin (FN) in diabetic rat glomeruli were investigated. Twenty-six rats were randomly divided into control group (C, n=8), diabetic group (D, n=9), and diabetes+heparin group (DH, n=9). After 8-week therapy of heparin (200 U once daily by abdominal injection), TGF-β 1, LN and FN expression in glomeruli was detected by immunohistochemical method. The results showed that the expression levels of TGF-β 1, LN and FN were higher in group D than in group C. It was found that heparin could reduce 24-h urinary albumin excretion and inhibit overexpression of TGF-β 1, LN and FN in glomeruli of diabetic rats. It suggested that the inhibitory effect of heparin on diabetic glomerular sclerosis was at least partly related with the inhibition of TGF-β 1 expression.

Expression of Mesenger RNA for Transforming Growth Factor-β_1 in Bovine Trabecular Meshwork

Purpose: To investigate the relationship between transforming growth factor-β1(TGF-β1) and primary open-angle glaucoma, we have determined whether trabec-ular tissues have the expression of messenger RNA for TGF-β1.Methods: Total RNA of 24 newborn bovine trabecular tissue were extracted byGuanidine isothiocyanate method. The TGF-β33 plasmid was brought into E. col-ibacillius HB101 and amplificated. After Bam HI endolase degradation and labelwith a-32p-dATP the RNA was hybridized with the cDNA (complementary DNA)probe and examined by autoradiography.Results: The presence of mRNA for TGF-β1 in bovine trabecular meshwork wasconfirmed.Conclusions: The TGF-β1 present in normal aqueous humor must be at least partlyderived from the trabecular meshwork. It offered a basis for understanding therelationship between abnormal synthesis, activation and clearance of TGF-β1 andthe pathogenesis of primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) in molecular biology.Eye Science 1996; 12:1-4.

Insulin-like growth factor-1 induces lymphangiogenesis and facilitates lymphatic metastasis in colorectal cancer

AIM:To investigate the expression of insulin-like growth factor-1(IGF-1)/insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor(IGF-1R)in colorectal cancer(CRC)tissues and to analyze their correlation with lymphangiogenesis and lymphatic metastasis.METHODS:Immunohistochemistry was used to evaluate IGF-1 and IGF-1R expression and lymphatic vessel density(LVD)in 40 CRC specimens.The correlation between IGF-1/IGF-1R and LVD was investigated.Effects of IGF-1 on migration and invasion of CRC cells were examined using transwell chamber assays.A LoVo cell xenograft model was established to further detect the role of IGF-1 in CRC lymphangiogenesis in vivo. RESULTS:Elevated IGF-1 and IGF-1R expression in CRC tissues was correlated with lymph node metastasis(r=0.715 and 0.569,respectively,P<0.05)and tumor TNM stage(r=0.731 and 0.609,P<0.05).A higher LVD was also found in CRC tissues and was correlated with lymphatic metastasis(r=0.405,P<0.05).A positive correlation was found between LVD and IGF-1R expression(r=0.437,P<0.05).Transwell assays revealed that IGF-1 increased the migration and invasion of CRC cells.In vivo mouse studies showed that IGF-1 also increased LVD in LoVo cell xenografts.CONCLUSION:IGF-1/IGF-1R signaling induces tumorassociated lymphangiogenesis and contributes to lymphatic metastasis of CRC.

Improvement in erectile dysfunction after insulin-like growth factor-1 gene therapy in diabetic rats

Aim： To determine whether adenoviral gene transfer of insulin like growth factor-1 （IGF-1） to the penis of streptozotocin （STZ）-induced diabetic rats could improve erectile capacity. Methods： The STZ diabetic rats were transfected with AdCMV-βgal or AdCMV-IGF-1. These rats underwent cavernous nerve stimulation to assess erectile function and their responses were compared with those of age-matched control rats 1 to 2 days after transfection. In control and transfected STZ diabetic rats, IGF-1 expression were examined by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction （RT-PCR）, Western blot and histology. The penis β-galactosidase activity and localization of the STZ diabetic rats were also determined. Results： One to two days after transfection, the β-galactosidase was found in the smooth muscle cells of the diabetic rat penis transfected with AdCMV-βgal. One to 2 days after administration of AdCMV- IGF-1, the cavernosal pressure, as determined by the ratio of maximal intracavernous pressure-to-mean arterial pressure （ICP/MAP） and total intracavernous pressure （ICP）, was increased in response to cavernous nerve stimulation. Transgene expression was confirmed by RT-PCR, Western blot and histology. Conclusion： Gene transfer of IGF-1 significantly increased erectile function in the STZ diabetic rats. These results suggest that in vivo gene transfer of IGF- 1 might be a new therapeutic intervention for the treatment of erectile dysfunction （ED） in the STZ diabetic rats.

Vascular endothelial growth factor A, secreted in response to transforming growth factor-β1 under hypoxic conditions, induces autocrine effects on migration of prostate cancer cells

Hypoxia and transforming growth factor-β1 （TGF-β1） increase vascular endothelial growth factor A （VEGFA） expression in a number of malignancies. This effect of hypoxia and TGF-β1 might be responsible for tumor progression and metastasis of advanced prostate cancer. In the present study, TGF-β1 was shown to induce VEGFA165 secretion from both normal cell lines （HPV7 and RWPE1） and prostate cancer cell lines （DU 145 and PC3）. Conversely, hypoxia-stimulated VEGFA165 secretion was observed only in prostate cancer cell lines. Hypoxia induced TGF-β1 expression in PC3 prostate cancer cells, and the TGF-β1 type I receptor （ALK5） kinase inhibitor partially blocked hypoxia-mediated VEGFA16s secretion. This effect of hypoxia provides a novel mechanism to increase VEGFA expression in prostate cancer cells. Although autocrine signaling of VEGFA has been implicated in prostate cancer progression and metastasis, the associated mechanism is poorly characterized. VEGFA activity is mediated via VEGF receptor （VEGFR） 1 （Fit-l） and 2 （FIk-I/KDR）. Whereas VEGFR-1 mRNA was detected in normal prostate epithelial cells, VEGFR-2 mRNA and VEGFR protein were expressed only in PC3 cells. VEGFA165 treatment induced phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 （ERKI/2） in PC3 cells but not in HPV7 cells, suggesting that the autocrine function of VEGFA may be uniquely associated with prostate cancer. Activation of VEGFR-2 by VEGFA165 was shown to enhance migration of PC3 cells. A similar effect was also observed with endogenous VEGFA induced by TGF-β1 and hypoxia. These findings illustrate that an autocrine loop of VEGFA via VEGFR-2 is critical for the tumorigenic effects of TGF-β1 and hypoxia on metastatic prostate cancers.

TRANSFORMING GROWTH FACTOR-β1 AND SMAD4 SIGNALING PATHWAY DOWN-REGULATES RENAL EXTRACELLULAR MATRIX DEGRADATION IN DIABETIC RATS

Objective To investigate the role of transforming growth factor-131 （TGF-β1）/Smad4 pathway in development of renal fibrosis in streptozotocin （STZ）-induced diabetic nephropathy （DN） rats and explore its possible mechanism. Methods Male Wistar rats weighing 180-220 g were divided into 5 groups： group A （ normal control）, group B [ diabetes mellitus （DM） 2 weeks ], group C （ DM 4 weeks）, group D （ DM 8 weeks）, and group E （ DM 16 weeks）. Except for the normal control group, other groups were induced DM by single injection of STZ （55 mg/kg） respectively. Blood glucose level, serum creatinine, and 24-hour urine protein were examined. Expressions of TGF-β1 and Smad4 protein and mRNA in kidney were detected using immunohistochemical technique, Western blot, and real-time PCR. mRNA expressions of stromelysin-1 （ MMP-3 ）, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 （ TIMP-1 ）, and collagen Ⅲ in kidney were also detected by real-time PCR. Results The levels of blood glucose, serum creatinine, and 24-hour urine protein in rats of group B, C, D, and E were higher than those of the control group. With the progression of renal fibrosis, the expressions of TGF-β1 and Smad4 protein and mRNA in kidney of diabetic rats elevated. In addition, the renal MMP-3 mRNA expression diminished in diabetic rats, while TIMP-1 and collagen Ⅲ mRNA increased. Conclusions In STZ-induced diabetic rats, the TGF-β1/Smad4 appears to play an important role in renal fibrosis of DN. The increased expression of TGF-β1 and Smad4 might result in the transcriptional regulation of downstream target genes of TGF-β1/Smad4 pathway, which contributes to the progression of renal fibrosis in diabetic rats.

Effects of Bifidobacterium infantis on cytokine-induced neutrophil chemoattractant and insulin-like growth factor-1 in the ileum of rats with endotoxin injury

BACKGROUND The digestive tract is the maximal immunizing tissue in the body, and mucosal integrity and functional status of the gut is very important to maintain a healthy organism. Severe infection is one of the most common causes of gastrointestinal dysfunction, and the pathogenesis is closely related to endotoxemia and intestinal barrier injury. Bifidobacterium is one of the main probiotics in the human body that is involved in digestion, absorption, metabolism, nutrition, and immunity.Bifidobacterium plays an important role in maintaining the intestinal mucosal barrier integrity. This study investigated the protective mechanism of Bifidobacterium during ileal injury in rats.AIM To investigate the effects of Bifidobacterium on cytokine-induced neutrophil chemoattractant(CINC) and insulin-like growth factor 1(IGF-1) in the ileum of rats with endotoxin injury.METHODS Preweaning rats were randomly divided into three groups: Control(group C),model(group E) and treatment(group T). Group E was intraperitoneally injected with lipopolysaccharide(LPS) to create an animal model of intestinal injury.Group T was intragastrically administered Bifidobacterium suspension 7 d before LPS. Group C was intraperitoneally injected with normal saline. The rats were killed at 2, 6 or 12 h after LPS or physiological saline injection to collect ilealtissue samples. The expression of ileal CINC mRNA was evaluated by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction(RT-PCR), and expression of ileal IGF-1 protein and mRNA was detected by immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR,respectively.RESULTS The ileum of rats in Group C did not express CINC mRNA, ileums from Group E expressed high levels, which was then significantly decreased in Group T(F =23.947, P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in CINC mRNA expression at different times(F = 0.665, P > 0.05). There was a high level of IGF-1 brown granules in ileal crypts and epithelial cells in Group C, sparse staining in Group E, and dark, dense brown staining in Group T. There was a significant difference between Groups C and E and Groups E and T(P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in IGF-1 protein expression at different times(F = 1.269, P > 0.05). IGF-1 mRNA expression was significantly different among the three groups(P < 0.05),though not at different times(F = 0.086, P > 0.05).CONCLUSION Expression of CINC mRNA increased in the ileum of preweaning rats with endotoxin injury, and exogenous administration of Bifidobacterium reduced CINC m RNA expression. IGF-1 protein and mRNA expression decreased in the ileum of preweaning rats with endotoxin injury, and exogenous administration of Bifidobacterium prevented the decrease in IGF-1 expression. Bifidobacterium may increase IGF-1 expression and enhance intestinal immune barrier function in rats with endotoxin injury.

Insulin like growth factor-1 increases fatty liver preservation in IGL-1 solution

AIM: To investigate the benefits of insulin like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) supplementation to serum-free institut georges lopez-1 (IGL-1) solution to protect fatty liver against cold ischemia reperfusion injury. METHODS: Steatotic livers were preserved for 24 h in IGL-1  solution supplemented with or without IGF-1 and then perfused "ex vivo " for 2 h at 37℃. We examined the effects of IGF-1 on hepatic damage and function (transaminases, percentage of sulfobromophthalein clearance in bile and vascular resistance). We also studied other factors associated with the poor tolerance of fatty livers to cold ischemia reperfusion injury such as mitochondrial damage, oxidative stress, nitric oxide, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and mitogen-activated protein kinases.RESULTS: Steatotic livers preserved in IGL-1 solutionsupplemented with IGF-1 showed lower transaminase levels, increased bile clearance and a reduction in vascular resistance when compared to those preserved in IGL-1solution alone. These benefits are mediated by activation of AKT and constitutive endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), as well as the inhibition of inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α. Mitochondrial damage and oxidative stress were also prevented.CONCLUSION: IGL-1  enrichment with IGF-1 increasedfatty liver graft preservation through AKT and eNOS activation, and prevented TNF-α release during normothermic reperfusion.

Expression of Nerve Growth Factor and Hypoxia Inducible Factor-1α and Its Correlation with Angiogenesis in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Summary： In order to investigate the expression of nerve growth factor （NGF） and hypoxia inducible factor-1α （HIF-1α） and its correlation with angiogenesis in non-small cell lung cancer （NSCLC）, paraffin-embedded tissue blocks from 20 patients with NSCLC were examined. Twenty corresponding para-cancerous lung tissue specimens were obtained to serve as a control. The expression of NGF, HIF-1α, and vascular endothelial growth factor （VEGF） in the NSCLC tissues was detected by using immunohistochemistry. The microvascular density （MVD） was determined by CD31 staining. The resuits showed that the expression levels ofNGF, HIF-1α and VEGF in the NSCLC tissues were remarkably higher than those in the para-cancerous lung tissues （P〈0.05）. There was significant difference in the MVD between the NSCLC tissues （9.19±1.43） and para-cancerous lung tissues （2.23±1.19） （P〈0.05）. There were positive correlations between NGF and VEGF, between HIF-1α and VEGF, and between NGF and HIF-1α in NSCLC tissues, with the spearman correlation coefficient being 0.588, 0.519 and 0.588, respectively. In NSCLC tissues, the MVD had a positive correlation with the three factors （P〈0.05）. Theses results suggest that NGF and HIF-1α are synergically involved in the angiogenesis of NSCLC.

Qinggan Huoxue Recipe suppresses epithelial-tomesenchymal transition in alcoholic liver fibrosis through TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway

AIM: To investigate the mechanism by which Qinggan Huoxue Recipe (QGHXR) inhibits epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in rats with alcoholic liver fibrosis (ALF).METHODS: A total of 75 male SD rats were used to induce ALF. Serum biochemical indicators, including alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, laminin and hyaluronidase, were measured. Liver histopathological changes were evaluated using hematoxylin-eosin and Sirius red staining. EMT was examined by analyzing the expression of the epithelial marker E-cadherin and the mesenchymal markers vimentin and fibronectin using RT-PCR and Western blot. The inhibitory effect of QGHXR on EMT markers, as well as its effect on molecules associated with the transforming growth factor (TGF)-&#x003b2;1/Smad signaling pathway, including TGF-&#x003b2;1, Smad3, snail, occludin, ZO-1 and claudin, was also examined.RESULTS: Compared with normal control rats, ALF rats exhibited a decrease in E-cadherin levels (mRNA: ALF 0.16 &#x000b1; 0.05 vs control 1.00 &#x000b1; 0.08; protein: ALF 0.09 &#x000b1; 0.05 vs control 0.70 &#x000b1; 0.17, P &#x0003c; 0.01) and an increase in vimentin and fibronectin levels (mRNA: 11.43 &#x000b1; 0.39 vs 1.00 &#x000b1; 0.19 and 9.91 &#x000b1; 0.34 vs 1.00 &#x000b1; 0.44, respectively, P &#x0003c; 0.01; protein: 1.13 &#x000b1; 0.42 vs 0.09 &#x000b1; 0.03 and 1.16 &#x000b1; 0.43 vs 0.09 &#x000b1; 0.00, respectively, P &#x0003c; 0.01). This indicates that EMT occurred in ALF rats. In addition, the TGF-&#x003b2;1/Smad signaling pathway was activated in ALF rats, as evidenced by the increase in TGF-&#x003b2;1 and snail levels (mRNA: 1.76 &#x000b1; 0.12 vs 1.00 &#x000b1; 0.05 and 6.98 &#x000b1; 0.41 vs 1.00 &#x000b1; 0.10, respectively, P &#x0003c; 0.01; protein: 1.43 &#x000b1; 0.05 vs 0.12 &#x000b1; 0.03 and 1.07 &#x000b1; 0.29 vs 0.07 &#x000b1; 0.02, respectively, P &#x0003c; 0.01) and the decrease in Smad3 levels (mRNA: 0.05 &#x000b1; 0.01 vs 1.00 &#x000b1; 0.12, P &#x0003c; 0.01; protein: 0.06 &#x000b1; 0.05 vs 0.89 &#x000b1; 0.12, P &#x0003c; 0.01). Furthermore, levels of the tight junction markers occludin, ZO-1 and claudin decreased in ALF rats compared with healthy control rats (mRNA: 0.60 &#x000b1; 0.09 vs 1.00 &#x000b1; 0.12, 0.11 &#x000b1; 0.00 vs 1.00 &#x000b1; 0.12 and 0.60 &#x000b1; 0.01 vs 1.00 &#x000b1; 0.08, respectively, P &#x0003c; 0.01; protein: 0.05 &#x000b1; 0.01 vs 0.87 &#x000b1; 0.40, 0.09 &#x000b1; 0.05 vs 0.89 &#x000b1; 0.18 and 0.04 &#x000b1; 0.03 vs 0.95 &#x000b1; 0.21, respectively, P &#x0003c; 0.01). In ALF rats treated with QGHXR, E-cadherin levels increased (mRNA: QGHXR 0.67 &#x000b1; 0.04 vs ALF model 0.16 &#x000b1; 0.05, P &#x0003c; 0.01; protein: QGHXR 0.66 &#x000b1; 0.21 vs ALF model 0.09 &#x000b1; 0.05, P &#x0003c; 0.01), and vimentin and fibronectin levels decreased (mRNA: 6.57 &#x000b1; 1.05 vs 11.43 &#x000b1; 0.39 and 1.45 &#x000b1; 1.51 vs 9.91 &#x000b1; 0.34, respectively, P &#x0003c; 0.01; protein: 0.09 &#x000b1; 0.03 vs 1.13 &#x000b1; 0.42 and 0.10 &#x000b1; 0.01 vs 1.16 &#x000b1; 0.43, respectively, P &#x0003c; 0.01). In addition, QGHXR inhibited the expression of TGF-&#x003b2;1 and increased the expression of Smad3 (mRNA: 1.03 &#x000b1; 0.11 vs 1.76 &#x000b1; 0.12, 0.70 &#x000b1; 0.10 vs 0.05 &#x000b1; 0.01, respectively, P &#x0003c; 0.05 and P &#x0003c; 0.01; protein: 0.12 &#x000b1; 0.03 vs 1.43 &#x000b1; 0.05 and 0.88 &#x000b1; 0.20 vs 0.06 &#x000b1; 0.05, respectively, P &#x0003c; 0.01). QGHXR treatment also reduced the levels of the EMT-inducing transcription factor snail (mRNA: 2.28 &#x000b1; 0.33 vs 6.98 &#x000b1; 0.41, P &#x0003c; 0.01; protein: 0.08 &#x000b1; 0.02 vs 1.07 &#x000b1; 0.29, P &#x0003c; 0.01) and increased the occludin, ZO-1 and claudin levels (mRNA: 0.73 &#x000b1; 0.05 vs 0.60 &#x000b1; 0.09, 0.57 &#x000b1; 0.04 vs 0.11 &#x000b1; 0.00 and 0.68 &#x000b1; 0.03 vs 0.60 &#x000b1; 0.01, respectively, P &#x0003c; 0.01, P &#x0003c; 0.01 and P &#x0003c; 0.05; protein: 0.92 &#x000b1; 0.50 vs 0.05 &#x000b1; 0.01, 0.94 &#x000b1; 0.22 vs 0.09 &#x000b1; 0.05 and 0.94 &#x000b1; 0.29 vs 0.04 &#x000b1; 0.03, respectively, P &#x0003c; 0.01). The effects of QGR and HXR on the TGF-&#x003b2;1/Smad signaling pathway were similar to that of QGHXR; however, the QGR- and HXR-induced changes in vimentin mRNA levels, the QGR-induced changes in fibronectin mRNA levels and the HXR-induced changes in snail and TGF-&#x003b2;1 mRNA levels were not significant.CONCLUSION: Qinggan Huoxue Recipe inhibits EMT in ALF rats by modulating the TGF-&#x003b2;1/Smad signaling pathway, suggesting that the mechanism underlying the amelioration of ALF induced by QGHXR is associated with this pathway.

The Effect of Simvastatin on mRNA Expression of Transforming Growth Factor-β1,Bone Morphogenetic Protein-2 and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor in Tooth Extraction Socket

Aim To determine the effect of local simvastatin application on the mRNA expression level of transforming growth factor-β1 （TGF-β1）, bone morphogenetic protein-2 （BMP-2） and vascular endothelial growth factor （VEGF） in the tooth sockets of rat. Methodology Forty-eight male Wistar rats were randomly divided into experimental and control groups （n=24）. Polylactic acid/polyglycolic acid copolymer carriers, with or without simvastatin, were implanted into extraction sockets of right mandibular incisors. The expression of TGF-β1, BMP-2 and VEGF mRNA was determined by in situ hybridization in the tooth extraction socket at five days, one week, two weeks and four weeks after implantation. Results The fusiform stroma cells in the tooth extraction socket began to express TGF-β1, BMP-2 and VEGF mRNA in both experimental and control groups from one week after tooth extraction until the end of experiment. The expression of TGF-131 and BMP-2 mRNA in the experimental group was significantly up-regulated after one, two and four weeks, and expression of VEGF mRNA was significantly increased after one and two weeks compared with that in the control group. Conclusion The findings indicate that local administration of simvastatin can influence alveolar bone remodeling by regulating the expression of a school of growth factors which are crucial to osteogenesis in the tooth extraction socket.

Promoter polymorphism of transforming growth factor-β1 gene and ulcerative colitis

AIM: To elucidate the possible difference in two promoter polymorphisms of the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) gene (-800G > A, -509C > T) between ulcerative colitis (UC) patients and normal subjects.METHODS: A total of 155 patients with established ulcerative colitis and 139 normal subjects were selected as controls. Two single nucleotide polymorphisms within the promoter region of TGF-β1 gene (-509C > T and -800G > A) were genotyped using PCR-RFLP. RESULTS: There was a statistically significant difference in genotype and allele frequency distributions between UC patients and controls for the -800G > A polymorphism of the TGF-β1 gene (P < 0.05). The frequency of the TGF-β1 gene polymorphism at position -800 showed that the AA genotype and the allele A frequencies significantly differed between the patients and healthy controls (P < 0.05). At position -509, there was no statically significant difference in genotype and allele frequency between the patients and control subjects.CONCLUSION: The results of our study indicate that there is a significant difference in both allele and genotype frequency at position -800G > A of TGF-β1 gene promoter between Iranian patients with UC and normal subjects.

Expression of early growth response factor-1 in rats with cerulein-induced acute pancreatitis and its significance

AIM： To observe the expressions of early growth response factor-1 （Egr-1） and tissue factor （TF） in rats with cerulein-induced acute pancreatitis and to explore its significance. METHODS： A large dose of cerulein was used to create the experimental acute pancreatitis model in rats. The changes of Egr-1 mRNA and protein in rats were observed during 30 min to 4 h after the treatment and immunohistochemical method was used to observe the localized expression of Egr-1 in tissues. In addition to the mRNA expression of Egr-1 target gene, TF was also observed. A blank control group, and a bombesinadministered group were used for comparison. RESULTS： Alter the stimulation of a large dose of cerulein, the rats showed typical inflammatory changes of acute pancreatitis. Thirty minutes alter the stimulation, the mRNA expression of Egr-1 in the pancreatic tissue reached its peak and then declined, while the expression of Egr-1 protein reached its peak 2 h after the stimulation. Histologically, 2 h after the stimulation, almost all pancreatic acinar cells had the expression of Egr-1 protein, which was focused in the nuclei. The mRNA expression of TF occurred 1 h after the stimulation and gradually increased within 4 h. However, a large dose of bombesin only stimulated the pancreatic tissue to produce a little mRNA expression of Egr-1 and no mRNA expression of Egr-1 protein and TF. CONCLUSION： Egr-1 as a pro-inflammatory transcription factor may play an important role in the pathogenesis of acute pancreatitis by modulating the expression of TF.

Histone deacetylase inhibitor suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid alleviates liver fibrosis by suppressing the transforming growth factor-β1 signal pathway

Background: Histone deacetylases(HDACs) inhibitors are new anti-fibrotic drugs that inhibit the activity of hepatic stellate cells. The present study focused on the anti-fibrotic function of HDAC inhibitor suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid(SAHA) by suppressing transforming growth factor-β1(TGF-β1) signaling. Methods: Male Sprague-Dawley rats were used to induce liver fibrosis with carbon tetrachloride(CCl 4) and LX2 cell(human hepatic stellate cell line) was stimulated by TGF-β1. Both animals and cells were treated with SAHA. The Smad7 and connective tissue growth factor(CTGF) mRNA levels were detected by real-time polymerase chain reaction(PCR). Western blotting was used to examine the protein levels of CTGF, Histone H3(H3), Smad7, Smad2/3, Acetyl-Histone H3(AH3), HDAC2, α-smooth muscle actin( α-SMA), HDAC6, p-Smad2/3 and HDAC8. In addition, the TGF-β1 and liver enzyme levels from rat serum were detected. Histopathological changes were examined by hematoxylin and eosin(HE), Sirius red and Masson trichrome staining. The α-SMA expression was detected by immumohistochemical staining. Results: Compared with control group, the TGF-β1 and liver enzyme levels from rat serum, together with the mRNA levels of CTGF and protein levels of CTGF, HDAC2, α-SMA, HDAC6, p-Smad2/3 and HDAC8 were elevated in fibrotic rats( P < 0.01). But the Smad7 mRNA and AH3 protein levels were notably suppressed in the fibrotic rats( P < 0.01). Pathological examination showed the typical changes of liver fibrosis in the fibrotic rats. After the treatment with SAHA, the levels of liver enzymes, TGF-β1, CTGF, HDAC2, α-SMA, HDAC6, p-Smad2/3 and HDAC8 were reduced( P < 0.01) and Smad7 and AH3 protein contents were elevated in liver fibrotic rats( P < 0.01). Moreover, immumohistochemistry showed that SAHA significantly suppressed the α-SMA protein content in fibrotic liver( P < 0.01). Conclusion: The HDAC inhibitor SAHA alleviated liver fibrosis by suppressing the TGF-β1 signaling.

Exosome-transported IncRNA H19 regulates insulin-like growth factor-1 via the H19/let-7a/insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor axis in ischemic stroke

LncRNA(long non-coding RNA) H19 is a transcript of the H19 gene that is expressed during embryogenesis.We previously discove red a role for circular lncRNA H19 in the onset and prognosis of cerebral ischemic stroke.In this study,we used serum from patients with ischemic stroke,and mouse and cell culture models to elucidate the roles of plasma and neuronal exosomes in the regulatory effect of lncRNA H19 on insulin-like growth factor-1 and its mechanism in ischemic stroke,using western blotting,quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction,and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays.Plasma exosomal IncRNA H19 was negatively associated with blood levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 in samples from patients with cerebral ischemic stroke.In a mouse model,levels of exosomal IncRNA H19 were positively correlated with plasma and cerebral lncRNA H19.In a cell co-culture model,we confirmed that IncRNA H19 was transported from neuro ns to astrocytes by exosomes to induce downregulation of insulin-like growth factor-1 through the H19/let-7 a/insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor axis.This study provides the first evidence for the transpo rtation of IncRNA H19 by exosomes and the relationship between IncRNA H19 and insulinlike growth factor-1.