AIM: To examine the expression of SphK1, an oncogenic kinase that produces sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P), and its correlation with the expression of LPAR2, a major lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) receptor overexpressed in...AIM: To examine the expression of SphK1, an oncogenic kinase that produces sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P), and its correlation with the expression of LPAR2, a major lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) receptor overexpressed in various cancers, in human colorectal cancer.METHODS: Real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction was used to measure the mRNA expression of SphK1, LPAR2, and the three major S1P receptors in 27 colorectal cancer samples and corresponding normal tissue samples. We also examined the correlation between the expression of SphK1 and LPAR2.RESULTS: Colorectal cancer tissue in 22 of 27 patients had higher levels of SphK1 mRNA than in normal tissue. In two-thirds of the samples, SphK1 mRNA expression was more than two-fold higher than in normal tissue. Consistent with previous reports, LPAR2 mRNA expression in 20 of 27 colorectal cancer tissue samples was higher compared to normal tissue samples. Expression profiles of all three major S1P receptors, S1PR1, S1PR2, and S1PR3, varied without any trend, with no significant difference in expression between cancer and normal tissues. A highly significant positive correlation was found between SphK1 and LPAR2 expression [Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r) = 0.784 and P < 0.01]. The mRNA levels of SphK1 and LPAR2 did not correlate with TNM stage.CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that S1P and LPA may play important roles in the development of colorectal cancer via the upregulation of SphK1 and LPAR2, both of which could serve as new therapeutic targets in the treatment of colorectal cancer.展开更多
Aim: To assess the spatiotemporal changes in the expression of extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/ 2), c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) in respon...Aim: To assess the spatiotemporal changes in the expression of extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/ 2), c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) in response to heat stress in the cryptorchid testis, and to investigate a possible relation to Sertoli cell dedifferentiation. Methods: Immunohistochemistry and western blot were used to examine the expression and activation of ERK1/2, p38 and JNK in the cryptorchid testis at various stages after experimental cryptorchidism. Results: The abdominal temperature did not obviously change the total ERK1/2 expression but significantly activated phospho-ERK1/2 in the Sertoli cells of the cryptorchid testis. Heat stress increased total JNK expression in the Sertoli cells of the cryptorchid testis but did not activate phospho-JNK. Neither total p38 nor phospho-p38 was induced by heat stress in the Sertoli cells of the cryptorchid testis. Changes in the spatiotemporal expression of cytokeratin 18 (CK18), a marker of immature or undifferentiated Sertoli cells, were induced in the cryptorchid testis in a pattern similar to the activation of ERK1/2. Condusion: The activation of ERK1/2 in the testis may be related to dedifferentiation of Sertoli cells under heat stress induced by experimental cryptorchidism.展开更多
Aim: To determine the mechanisms of glucocorticoids in inhibiting advanced prostate cancer growth. Methods: The cell proliferation and cell cycle of prostate cancer DU145 cells following dexamethasone treatment were...Aim: To determine the mechanisms of glucocorticoids in inhibiting advanced prostate cancer growth. Methods: The cell proliferation and cell cycle of prostate cancer DU145 cells following dexamethasone treatment were determined by proliferation assay and fluorescence-activated cell sorter. Western blot analysis was carried out to evaluate the effects of dexamethasone on phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 and expression of cyclin D1 in DU145 cells with or without glucocorticoid receptor (GR) antagonist RU486. Reverse transcription- polymerase chain reaction verified the expression of GR mRNA in DU145 cells. Results: Dexamethasone significantly inhibited DU 145 cell proliferation at the G0/G1 phase. Westem blot analysis showed a dramatic reduction of ERK1/2 activity and cyclin D1 expression in dexamethasone-treated cells. The decreased phosphorylation of ERK1/2 in dexamethasone-treated cells was attenuated by GR blockade. Additionally, the effects of dexamethasone in inhibiting cyclin D1 expression were altered by GR blockade. Conclusion: Dexamethasone suppresses DU145 cell proliferation and cell cycle, and the underlying mechanisms are through the inhibition of phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and cyclin D1 expression. The inhibition of ERK1/2 phosphorylation and cyclin D1 expression is attenuated by GR blockade, suggesting that GR regulates ERK1/2 and cyclin D1 pathways. These observations suggest that dexamethasone has a potential clinical application in prostate cancer therapy.展开更多
Objective To investigate the role of extracellular signal-regulated kinase1/2(ERK1/2) pathway in the regulation of aquaporin 4(AQP4) expression in cultured astrocytes after scratch-injury. Methods The scratch-inju...Objective To investigate the role of extracellular signal-regulated kinase1/2(ERK1/2) pathway in the regulation of aquaporin 4(AQP4) expression in cultured astrocytes after scratch-injury. Methods The scratch-injury model was produced in cultured astrocytes of rat by a 10-μL plastic pipette tip. The morphological changes of astrocytes and lactate dehydrogenase(LDH) leakages were observed to assess the degree of scratch-injury. AQP4 expression was detected by immunofluorescence staining and Western blot, and phosphorylated-ERK1/2(p-ERK1/2) expression was determined by Western blot. To explore the effect of ERK1/2 pathway on AQP4 expression in scratch-injured astrocytes, 10 μmol/L U0126(ERK1/2 inhibitor) was incubated in the medium at 30 min before the scratch-injury in some groups. Results Increases in LDH leakage were observed at 1, 12, and 24 h after scratch-injury, and AQP4 expression was reduced simultaneously. Decrease in AQP4 expression was associated with a significant increase in ERK1/2 activation. Furthermore, pretreatment with U0126 blocked both ERK1/2 activation and decrease in AQP4 expression induced by scratch-injury. Conclusion These results indicate that ERK1/2 pathway down-regulates AQP4 expression in scratch-injured astrocytes, and ERK1/2 pathway might be a novel therapeutic target in reversing the effects of astrocytes that contribute to traumatic brain edema.展开更多
AIM: To investigate the effect of herbal compound 861 (Cpd861) on the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGFβ1)/ activin receptor-like kinase 1 (ALK1, type Ⅰ receptor) signaling-pathway-related gene expression in the L...AIM: To investigate the effect of herbal compound 861 (Cpd861) on the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGFβ1)/ activin receptor-like kinase 1 (ALK1, type Ⅰ receptor) signaling-pathway-related gene expression in the LX-2 cell line, and the inhibitory mechanism of Cpd861 on the activation of LX-2 cells. METHODS: LX-2 cells were treated with TGFβ1 (5 ng/mL) Cpd861 (0.1 mg/mL), TGFβ1 (5 ng/mL) plus Cpd861 (5 ng/mL) for 24 h to investigate the effect of Cpd861 on the TGFβ1/ALK1 pathway. Real-time PCR was performed to examine the expression of α-SMA (α-smooth muscle actin), ALK1, Id1 (inhibitor of differentiation 1). Western blotting was carried out to measure the levels of α-SMA and phosphorylated Smad1, and immunocytochemical analysis for the expression of α-SMA. RESULTS: In LX-2 cells, TGFβ1/ALK1-pathway-related gene expression could be stimulated by TGFβ1, which led to excessive activation of the cells. Cpd861 decreased the activation of LX-2 cells by reducing the expression of α-SMA mRNA and protein expression. This effect was related to inhibition of the above TGFβ1/ALK1-pathway- related expression of genes such as Id1 and ALK1, and phosphorylation of Smad1 in LX-2 cells, even with TGFβ1 co-treatment for 24 h. CONCLUSION: Cpd861 can restrain the activation of LX-2 cells by inhibiting the TGFβ1/ALK1/Smad1 pathway.展开更多
BACKGROUND Enterotoxigenic Bacteroides fragilis(ETBF)causes colitis and diarrhea,and is considered a candidate pathogen in inflammatory bowel diseases as well as colorectal cancers.These diseases are dependent on ETBF...BACKGROUND Enterotoxigenic Bacteroides fragilis(ETBF)causes colitis and diarrhea,and is considered a candidate pathogen in inflammatory bowel diseases as well as colorectal cancers.These diseases are dependent on ETBF-secreted toxin(BFT).Dendritic cells(DCs)play an important role in directing the nature of adaptive immune responses to bacterial infection and heme oxygenase-1(HO-1)is involved in the regulation of DC function.AIM To investigate the role of BFT in HO-1 expression in DCs.METHODS Murine DCs were generated from specific pathogen-free C57BL/6 and Nrf2−/−knockout mice.DCs were exposed to BFT,after which HO-1 expression and the related signaling factor activation were measured by quantitative RT-PCR,EMSA,fluorescent microscopy,immunoblot,and ELISA.RESULTS HO-1 expression was upregulated in DCs stimulated with BFT.Although BFT activated transcription factors such as NF-κB,AP-1,and Nrf2,activation of NF-κB and AP-1 was not involved in the induction of HO-1 expression in BFT-exposed DCs.Instead,upregulation of HO-1 expression was dependent on Nrf2 activation in DCs.Moreover,HO-1 expression via Nrf2 in DCs was regulated by mitogenactivated protein kinases such as ERK and p38.Furthermore,BFT enhanced the production of reactive oxygen species(ROS)and inhibition of ROS production resulted in a significant decrease of phospho-ERK,phospho-p38,Nrf2,and HO-1 CONCLUSION These results suggest that signaling pathways involving ROS-mediated ERK and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases-Nrf2 activation in DCs are required for HO-1 induction during exposure to ETBF-produced BFT.展开更多
The Ikaros gene encodes a zinc finger,DNA-binding protein that regulates gene transcription and chromatin remodeling.Ikaros is a master regulator of hematopoiesis and an established tumor suppressor.Moderate alteratio...The Ikaros gene encodes a zinc finger,DNA-binding protein that regulates gene transcription and chromatin remodeling.Ikaros is a master regulator of hematopoiesis and an established tumor suppressor.Moderate alteration of Ikaros activity (e.g.haploinsufficiency) appears to be sufficient to promote malignant transformation in human hematopoietic cells.This raises questions about the mechanisms that normally regulate Ikaros function and the potential of these mechanisms to contribute to the development of leukemia.The focus of this review is the regulation of Ikaros function by phosphorylation/dephosphorylation.Site-specific phosphorylation of Ikaros by casein kinase 2 (CK2) controls Ikaros DNA-binding ability and subcellular localization.As a consequence,the ability of Ikaros to regulate cell cycle progression,chromatin remodeling,target gene expression,and thymocyte differentiation are controlled by CK2.In addition,hyperphosphorylation of Ikaros by CK2 leads to decreased Ikaros levels due to ubiquitinmediated degradation.Dephosphorylation of Ikaros by protein phosphatase 1 (PP1) acts in opposition to CK2 to increase Ikaros stability and restore Ikaros DNA binding ability and pericentromeric localization.Thus,the CK2 and PP1 pathways act in concert to regulate Ikaros activity in hematopoiesis and as a tumor suppressor.This highlights the importance of these signal transduction pathways as potential mediators of leukemogenesis via their role in regulating the activities of Ikaros.展开更多
According to a genome-wide association study,intronic SNPs within the human sterile 20/SPS1-related proline/alanine-rich kinase(SPAK) gene was linked to 20% of the general population and may be associated with elevate...According to a genome-wide association study,intronic SNPs within the human sterile 20/SPS1-related proline/alanine-rich kinase(SPAK) gene was linked to 20% of the general population and may be associated with elevated blood pressure. As cell volume changes,mammalian SPAK kinases respond to phosphorylate and regulate cation-coupled chloride co-transporter activity. To our knowledge,phosphorylation of upstream with-no-lysine(K)(WNK) kinases would activate SPAK kinases. The activation of WNK-OSR1/SPAK cascade on the kidneys and aortic tissue is related to the development of hypertension. Several regulators of the WNK pathway such as the Kelch kinase protein 3-Cullin 3 E3 ligase,hyperinsulinemia,and low potassium intake to mediate hypertension have been identified. In addition,the SPAK kinases may affect the action of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system on blood pressure as well. In 2010,two SPAK knock-in and knock-out mouse models have clarified the pathogenesis of lowering blood pressure by influencing the receptors on the kidneys and aortic smooth muscle. More recently,two novel SPAK inhibitors for mice,Stock 1S-14279 and Closantel were discovered in 2014. Targeting of SPAK seems to be promising for future antihypertensive therapy. Therefore we raised some viewpoints for the issue for the antihypertensive therapy on the SPAK(gene or kinase).展开更多
Objective:Cardiac remodeling is a common pathological change in various cardiovascular diseases and can ultimately result in heart failure.Thus,there is an urgent need for more effective strategies to aid in cardiac p...Objective:Cardiac remodeling is a common pathological change in various cardiovascular diseases and can ultimately result in heart failure.Thus,there is an urgent need for more effective strategies to aid in cardiac protection.Our previous work found that sphingosine-1-phosphate(S1P)could ameliorate cardiac hypertrophy.In this study,we aimed to investigate whether S1P could prevent cardiac fibrosis and the associated mechanisms in cardiac remodeling.Methods:Eight-week-old male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into a sham,transverse aortic constriction(TAC)or a TAC+S1P treatment group.Results:We found that S1P treatment improved cardiac function in TAC mice and that the cardiac fibrosis ratio in the TAC+S1P group was significantly lower and was accompanied by a decrease inα-smooth muscle actin(α-SMA)and collagen type I(COL I)expression compared with the TAC group.We also found that one of the key S1P enzymes,sphingosine kinase 2(SphK2),which was mainly distributed in cytoblasts,was downregulated in the cardiac remodeling case and recovered after S1P treatment in vivo and in vitro.In addition,our in vitro results showed that S1P treatment activated extracellular regulated protein kinases(ERK)phosphorylation mainly through the S1P receptor 2(S1PR2)and spurred p-ERK transposition from the cytoplasm to cytoblast in H9c2 cells exposed to phenylephrine.Conclusion:These findings suggest that SphK2 and the S1PR2/ERK pathway may participate in the anti-remodeling effect of S1P on the heart.This work therefore uncovers a novel potential therapy for the prevention of cardiac remodeling.展开更多
BACKGROUND: The onset of focal cerebral ischemia activates extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2, regulates cell cycle, promotes cell proliferation and differentiation, and affects the normal stage and funct...BACKGROUND: The onset of focal cerebral ischemia activates extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2, regulates cell cycle, promotes cell proliferation and differentiation, and affects the normal stage and function of brain cells. OBJECTIVE: To observe the effects of electroacupuncture at the Ren channel on extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 expression in the lateral cerebral ventricle wall of rats with focal cerebral ischemia. The effects were analyzed at different time points after intervention. DESIGN: Randomized controlled study. SETTING: Department of Anatomy, Sun Yat-Sen University. MATERIALS: A total of 60 healthy adult male Wistar rats weighing (250±10) g were provided by the Experimental Animal Center, Medical College of Sun Yat-Sen University. The animal experiment was conducted with confirmed consent by the local ethics committee. The GB6805-Ⅱ electric acupuncture apparatus was provided by Shanghai Medical Equipment High-techno Company. METHODS: The experiment was performed at the Laboratory of Anatomy, Sun Yat-Sen University, from February to July 2007. All experimental animals were randomly divided into the following groups: normal group (n = 6), sham operation group (n = 18), model group (n = 18), and electroacupuncture group (n = 18). Middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) was performed in the model group and electroacupuncture group. Zea Longa's grading standard was used to assess neurological impairment after reperfusion; animals whose grades were between l and 4 were included in this study. The normal control group was not exposed to MCAO. In sham operation animals, the right common carotid artery (CCA) was isolated, and the external carotid artery (ECA) was damaged, but no embolism was induced. The electroacupuncture group was given acupuncture on the second day after surgery. The acupoint locations were chosen according to Experimental Acupuncture (People's Publishing House; 1997; First Edition). The Chengjiang, Qihai, and Guanyuan acupoints were labeled and connected to a G6805 electroacupuncture apparatus with sparse-dense waves (sparse waves were 30 Hz, dense waves were 100 Hz), with a frequency of 6-15 V. The duration was 20 minutes. Two days after surgery, the model and sham operation groups were placed with their backs on the operating table, but they received no acupuncture. However, the normal group received acupuncture. The experimental animals under anesthesia were sacrificed on days 7, 14, and 28 post-surgery. Western blot analysis was used to measure expression of extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 in the inferior region of the lateral cerebral ventricle wall. Expression was measured in the normal group at time points corresponding to the sham operation group. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Expression of extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 in the inferior region of the lateral cerebral ventricle wall at different time points after intervention. RESULTS: All 60 rats were included in the final analysis, without any loss. Seven days after MCAO, there was no significant difference in extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 expression in the electroacupuncture group compared to the model group (P 〉 0.05). However, extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 expression significantly increased in the model group at 14 and 28 days after treatment (P 〈 0.05). CONCLUSION: Electroacupuncture at the Ren channel can enhance extracellular signal-regulated kinasesl/2 expression in the inferior region of the lateral cerebral ventricle wall of rats with focal cerebral ischemia. However, this effect is not apparent until 14 days after electroacupuncture intervention.展开更多
Aim:To assess the spatiotemporal changes in the expression of extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2(ERK1/ 2),c-Jun N-terminal kinases(JNK)and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases(MAPK)in response to heat str...Aim:To assess the spatiotemporal changes in the expression of extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2(ERK1/ 2),c-Jun N-terminal kinases(JNK)and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases(MAPK)in response to heat stress in the cryptorchid testis,and to investigate a possible relation to Sertoli cell dedifferentiation.Methods:Immunohis- tochemistry and western blot were used to examine the expression and activation of ERK1/2,p38 and JNK in the cryptorchid testis at various stages after experimental cryptorchidism.Results:The abdominal temperature did not obviously change the total ERK1/2 expression but significantly activated phospho-ERK1/2 in the Sertoli cells of the cryptorchid testis.Heat stress increased total JNK expression in the Sertoli cells of the cryptorchid testis but did not activate phospho-JNK.Neither total p38 nor phospho-p38 was induced by heat stress in the Sertoli cells of the cryptorchid testis.Changes in the spatiotemporal expression of cytokeratin 18(CK18),a marker of immature or undifferentiated Sertoli cells,were induced in the cryptorchid testis in a pattern similar to the activation of ERK1/2. Conclusion:The activation of ERK1/2 in the testis may be related to dedifferentiation of Sertoli cells under heat stress induced by experimental cryptorchidism.展开更多
基金Supported by Grant 2010 from Tokyo MetropolisJapan
文摘AIM: To examine the expression of SphK1, an oncogenic kinase that produces sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P), and its correlation with the expression of LPAR2, a major lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) receptor overexpressed in various cancers, in human colorectal cancer.METHODS: Real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction was used to measure the mRNA expression of SphK1, LPAR2, and the three major S1P receptors in 27 colorectal cancer samples and corresponding normal tissue samples. We also examined the correlation between the expression of SphK1 and LPAR2.RESULTS: Colorectal cancer tissue in 22 of 27 patients had higher levels of SphK1 mRNA than in normal tissue. In two-thirds of the samples, SphK1 mRNA expression was more than two-fold higher than in normal tissue. Consistent with previous reports, LPAR2 mRNA expression in 20 of 27 colorectal cancer tissue samples was higher compared to normal tissue samples. Expression profiles of all three major S1P receptors, S1PR1, S1PR2, and S1PR3, varied without any trend, with no significant difference in expression between cancer and normal tissues. A highly significant positive correlation was found between SphK1 and LPAR2 expression [Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r) = 0.784 and P < 0.01]. The mRNA levels of SphK1 and LPAR2 did not correlate with TNM stage.CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that S1P and LPA may play important roles in the development of colorectal cancer via the upregulation of SphK1 and LPAR2, both of which could serve as new therapeutic targets in the treatment of colorectal cancer.
基金Acknowledgment This study was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (30230190), the National Basic Science Research and Development Project (973) (G1999055901) and the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) Knowledge Innovation Program (KSCX-2-SW-201).
文摘Aim: To assess the spatiotemporal changes in the expression of extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/ 2), c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) in response to heat stress in the cryptorchid testis, and to investigate a possible relation to Sertoli cell dedifferentiation. Methods: Immunohistochemistry and western blot were used to examine the expression and activation of ERK1/2, p38 and JNK in the cryptorchid testis at various stages after experimental cryptorchidism. Results: The abdominal temperature did not obviously change the total ERK1/2 expression but significantly activated phospho-ERK1/2 in the Sertoli cells of the cryptorchid testis. Heat stress increased total JNK expression in the Sertoli cells of the cryptorchid testis but did not activate phospho-JNK. Neither total p38 nor phospho-p38 was induced by heat stress in the Sertoli cells of the cryptorchid testis. Changes in the spatiotemporal expression of cytokeratin 18 (CK18), a marker of immature or undifferentiated Sertoli cells, were induced in the cryptorchid testis in a pattern similar to the activation of ERK1/2. Condusion: The activation of ERK1/2 in the testis may be related to dedifferentiation of Sertoli cells under heat stress induced by experimental cryptorchidism.
文摘Aim: To determine the mechanisms of glucocorticoids in inhibiting advanced prostate cancer growth. Methods: The cell proliferation and cell cycle of prostate cancer DU145 cells following dexamethasone treatment were determined by proliferation assay and fluorescence-activated cell sorter. Western blot analysis was carried out to evaluate the effects of dexamethasone on phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 and expression of cyclin D1 in DU145 cells with or without glucocorticoid receptor (GR) antagonist RU486. Reverse transcription- polymerase chain reaction verified the expression of GR mRNA in DU145 cells. Results: Dexamethasone significantly inhibited DU 145 cell proliferation at the G0/G1 phase. Westem blot analysis showed a dramatic reduction of ERK1/2 activity and cyclin D1 expression in dexamethasone-treated cells. The decreased phosphorylation of ERK1/2 in dexamethasone-treated cells was attenuated by GR blockade. Additionally, the effects of dexamethasone in inhibiting cyclin D1 expression were altered by GR blockade. Conclusion: Dexamethasone suppresses DU145 cell proliferation and cell cycle, and the underlying mechanisms are through the inhibition of phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and cyclin D1 expression. The inhibition of ERK1/2 phosphorylation and cyclin D1 expression is attenuated by GR blockade, suggesting that GR regulates ERK1/2 and cyclin D1 pathways. These observations suggest that dexamethasone has a potential clinical application in prostate cancer therapy.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81271286 to YUAN Fang and No.81228009 to YANG Shao Hua
文摘Objective To investigate the role of extracellular signal-regulated kinase1/2(ERK1/2) pathway in the regulation of aquaporin 4(AQP4) expression in cultured astrocytes after scratch-injury. Methods The scratch-injury model was produced in cultured astrocytes of rat by a 10-μL plastic pipette tip. The morphological changes of astrocytes and lactate dehydrogenase(LDH) leakages were observed to assess the degree of scratch-injury. AQP4 expression was detected by immunofluorescence staining and Western blot, and phosphorylated-ERK1/2(p-ERK1/2) expression was determined by Western blot. To explore the effect of ERK1/2 pathway on AQP4 expression in scratch-injured astrocytes, 10 μmol/L U0126(ERK1/2 inhibitor) was incubated in the medium at 30 min before the scratch-injury in some groups. Results Increases in LDH leakage were observed at 1, 12, and 24 h after scratch-injury, and AQP4 expression was reduced simultaneously. Decrease in AQP4 expression was associated with a significant increase in ERK1/2 activation. Furthermore, pretreatment with U0126 blocked both ERK1/2 activation and decrease in AQP4 expression induced by scratch-injury. Conclusion These results indicate that ERK1/2 pathway down-regulates AQP4 expression in scratch-injured astrocytes, and ERK1/2 pathway might be a novel therapeutic target in reversing the effects of astrocytes that contribute to traumatic brain edema.
文摘AIM: To investigate the effect of herbal compound 861 (Cpd861) on the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGFβ1)/ activin receptor-like kinase 1 (ALK1, type Ⅰ receptor) signaling-pathway-related gene expression in the LX-2 cell line, and the inhibitory mechanism of Cpd861 on the activation of LX-2 cells. METHODS: LX-2 cells were treated with TGFβ1 (5 ng/mL) Cpd861 (0.1 mg/mL), TGFβ1 (5 ng/mL) plus Cpd861 (5 ng/mL) for 24 h to investigate the effect of Cpd861 on the TGFβ1/ALK1 pathway. Real-time PCR was performed to examine the expression of α-SMA (α-smooth muscle actin), ALK1, Id1 (inhibitor of differentiation 1). Western blotting was carried out to measure the levels of α-SMA and phosphorylated Smad1, and immunocytochemical analysis for the expression of α-SMA. RESULTS: In LX-2 cells, TGFβ1/ALK1-pathway-related gene expression could be stimulated by TGFβ1, which led to excessive activation of the cells. Cpd861 decreased the activation of LX-2 cells by reducing the expression of α-SMA mRNA and protein expression. This effect was related to inhibition of the above TGFβ1/ALK1-pathway- related expression of genes such as Id1 and ALK1, and phosphorylation of Smad1 in LX-2 cells, even with TGFβ1 co-treatment for 24 h. CONCLUSION: Cpd861 can restrain the activation of LX-2 cells by inhibiting the TGFβ1/ALK1/Smad1 pathway.
基金Supported by the Basic Science Research Program through the National Research Foundation of Korea funded by the Ministry of Education,Science and Technology,South Korea,No.NRF-2018R1D1A1B07043350
文摘BACKGROUND Enterotoxigenic Bacteroides fragilis(ETBF)causes colitis and diarrhea,and is considered a candidate pathogen in inflammatory bowel diseases as well as colorectal cancers.These diseases are dependent on ETBF-secreted toxin(BFT).Dendritic cells(DCs)play an important role in directing the nature of adaptive immune responses to bacterial infection and heme oxygenase-1(HO-1)is involved in the regulation of DC function.AIM To investigate the role of BFT in HO-1 expression in DCs.METHODS Murine DCs were generated from specific pathogen-free C57BL/6 and Nrf2−/−knockout mice.DCs were exposed to BFT,after which HO-1 expression and the related signaling factor activation were measured by quantitative RT-PCR,EMSA,fluorescent microscopy,immunoblot,and ELISA.RESULTS HO-1 expression was upregulated in DCs stimulated with BFT.Although BFT activated transcription factors such as NF-κB,AP-1,and Nrf2,activation of NF-κB and AP-1 was not involved in the induction of HO-1 expression in BFT-exposed DCs.Instead,upregulation of HO-1 expression was dependent on Nrf2 activation in DCs.Moreover,HO-1 expression via Nrf2 in DCs was regulated by mitogenactivated protein kinases such as ERK and p38.Furthermore,BFT enhanced the production of reactive oxygen species(ROS)and inhibition of ROS production resulted in a significant decrease of phospho-ERK,phospho-p38,Nrf2,and HO-1 CONCLUSION These results suggest that signaling pathways involving ROS-mediated ERK and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases-Nrf2 activation in DCs are required for HO-1 induction during exposure to ETBF-produced BFT.
基金Supported by (in part) An NIH R01 HL095120 grant,a St.Baldrick’s Foundation Career Development Award,the Four Diamonds Fund of the Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine,and the John Wawrynovic Leukemia Research Scholar Endowment (SD)
文摘The Ikaros gene encodes a zinc finger,DNA-binding protein that regulates gene transcription and chromatin remodeling.Ikaros is a master regulator of hematopoiesis and an established tumor suppressor.Moderate alteration of Ikaros activity (e.g.haploinsufficiency) appears to be sufficient to promote malignant transformation in human hematopoietic cells.This raises questions about the mechanisms that normally regulate Ikaros function and the potential of these mechanisms to contribute to the development of leukemia.The focus of this review is the regulation of Ikaros function by phosphorylation/dephosphorylation.Site-specific phosphorylation of Ikaros by casein kinase 2 (CK2) controls Ikaros DNA-binding ability and subcellular localization.As a consequence,the ability of Ikaros to regulate cell cycle progression,chromatin remodeling,target gene expression,and thymocyte differentiation are controlled by CK2.In addition,hyperphosphorylation of Ikaros by CK2 leads to decreased Ikaros levels due to ubiquitinmediated degradation.Dephosphorylation of Ikaros by protein phosphatase 1 (PP1) acts in opposition to CK2 to increase Ikaros stability and restore Ikaros DNA binding ability and pericentromeric localization.Thus,the CK2 and PP1 pathways act in concert to regulate Ikaros activity in hematopoiesis and as a tumor suppressor.This highlights the importance of these signal transduction pathways as potential mediators of leukemogenesis via their role in regulating the activities of Ikaros.
文摘According to a genome-wide association study,intronic SNPs within the human sterile 20/SPS1-related proline/alanine-rich kinase(SPAK) gene was linked to 20% of the general population and may be associated with elevated blood pressure. As cell volume changes,mammalian SPAK kinases respond to phosphorylate and regulate cation-coupled chloride co-transporter activity. To our knowledge,phosphorylation of upstream with-no-lysine(K)(WNK) kinases would activate SPAK kinases. The activation of WNK-OSR1/SPAK cascade on the kidneys and aortic tissue is related to the development of hypertension. Several regulators of the WNK pathway such as the Kelch kinase protein 3-Cullin 3 E3 ligase,hyperinsulinemia,and low potassium intake to mediate hypertension have been identified. In addition,the SPAK kinases may affect the action of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system on blood pressure as well. In 2010,two SPAK knock-in and knock-out mouse models have clarified the pathogenesis of lowering blood pressure by influencing the receptors on the kidneys and aortic smooth muscle. More recently,two novel SPAK inhibitors for mice,Stock 1S-14279 and Closantel were discovered in 2014. Targeting of SPAK seems to be promising for future antihypertensive therapy. Therefore we raised some viewpoints for the issue for the antihypertensive therapy on the SPAK(gene or kinase).
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81873505).
文摘Objective:Cardiac remodeling is a common pathological change in various cardiovascular diseases and can ultimately result in heart failure.Thus,there is an urgent need for more effective strategies to aid in cardiac protection.Our previous work found that sphingosine-1-phosphate(S1P)could ameliorate cardiac hypertrophy.In this study,we aimed to investigate whether S1P could prevent cardiac fibrosis and the associated mechanisms in cardiac remodeling.Methods:Eight-week-old male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into a sham,transverse aortic constriction(TAC)or a TAC+S1P treatment group.Results:We found that S1P treatment improved cardiac function in TAC mice and that the cardiac fibrosis ratio in the TAC+S1P group was significantly lower and was accompanied by a decrease inα-smooth muscle actin(α-SMA)and collagen type I(COL I)expression compared with the TAC group.We also found that one of the key S1P enzymes,sphingosine kinase 2(SphK2),which was mainly distributed in cytoblasts,was downregulated in the cardiac remodeling case and recovered after S1P treatment in vivo and in vitro.In addition,our in vitro results showed that S1P treatment activated extracellular regulated protein kinases(ERK)phosphorylation mainly through the S1P receptor 2(S1PR2)and spurred p-ERK transposition from the cytoplasm to cytoblast in H9c2 cells exposed to phenylephrine.Conclusion:These findings suggest that SphK2 and the S1PR2/ERK pathway may participate in the anti-remodeling effect of S1P on the heart.This work therefore uncovers a novel potential therapy for the prevention of cardiac remodeling.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China, No. 30371808Post-doctor's Project of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.106B3YH0411
文摘BACKGROUND: The onset of focal cerebral ischemia activates extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2, regulates cell cycle, promotes cell proliferation and differentiation, and affects the normal stage and function of brain cells. OBJECTIVE: To observe the effects of electroacupuncture at the Ren channel on extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 expression in the lateral cerebral ventricle wall of rats with focal cerebral ischemia. The effects were analyzed at different time points after intervention. DESIGN: Randomized controlled study. SETTING: Department of Anatomy, Sun Yat-Sen University. MATERIALS: A total of 60 healthy adult male Wistar rats weighing (250±10) g were provided by the Experimental Animal Center, Medical College of Sun Yat-Sen University. The animal experiment was conducted with confirmed consent by the local ethics committee. The GB6805-Ⅱ electric acupuncture apparatus was provided by Shanghai Medical Equipment High-techno Company. METHODS: The experiment was performed at the Laboratory of Anatomy, Sun Yat-Sen University, from February to July 2007. All experimental animals were randomly divided into the following groups: normal group (n = 6), sham operation group (n = 18), model group (n = 18), and electroacupuncture group (n = 18). Middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) was performed in the model group and electroacupuncture group. Zea Longa's grading standard was used to assess neurological impairment after reperfusion; animals whose grades were between l and 4 were included in this study. The normal control group was not exposed to MCAO. In sham operation animals, the right common carotid artery (CCA) was isolated, and the external carotid artery (ECA) was damaged, but no embolism was induced. The electroacupuncture group was given acupuncture on the second day after surgery. The acupoint locations were chosen according to Experimental Acupuncture (People's Publishing House; 1997; First Edition). The Chengjiang, Qihai, and Guanyuan acupoints were labeled and connected to a G6805 electroacupuncture apparatus with sparse-dense waves (sparse waves were 30 Hz, dense waves were 100 Hz), with a frequency of 6-15 V. The duration was 20 minutes. Two days after surgery, the model and sham operation groups were placed with their backs on the operating table, but they received no acupuncture. However, the normal group received acupuncture. The experimental animals under anesthesia were sacrificed on days 7, 14, and 28 post-surgery. Western blot analysis was used to measure expression of extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 in the inferior region of the lateral cerebral ventricle wall. Expression was measured in the normal group at time points corresponding to the sham operation group. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Expression of extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 in the inferior region of the lateral cerebral ventricle wall at different time points after intervention. RESULTS: All 60 rats were included in the final analysis, without any loss. Seven days after MCAO, there was no significant difference in extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 expression in the electroacupuncture group compared to the model group (P 〉 0.05). However, extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 expression significantly increased in the model group at 14 and 28 days after treatment (P 〈 0.05). CONCLUSION: Electroacupuncture at the Ren channel can enhance extracellular signal-regulated kinasesl/2 expression in the inferior region of the lateral cerebral ventricle wall of rats with focal cerebral ischemia. However, this effect is not apparent until 14 days after electroacupuncture intervention.
文摘Aim:To assess the spatiotemporal changes in the expression of extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2(ERK1/ 2),c-Jun N-terminal kinases(JNK)and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases(MAPK)in response to heat stress in the cryptorchid testis,and to investigate a possible relation to Sertoli cell dedifferentiation.Methods:Immunohis- tochemistry and western blot were used to examine the expression and activation of ERK1/2,p38 and JNK in the cryptorchid testis at various stages after experimental cryptorchidism.Results:The abdominal temperature did not obviously change the total ERK1/2 expression but significantly activated phospho-ERK1/2 in the Sertoli cells of the cryptorchid testis.Heat stress increased total JNK expression in the Sertoli cells of the cryptorchid testis but did not activate phospho-JNK.Neither total p38 nor phospho-p38 was induced by heat stress in the Sertoli cells of the cryptorchid testis.Changes in the spatiotemporal expression of cytokeratin 18(CK18),a marker of immature or undifferentiated Sertoli cells,were induced in the cryptorchid testis in a pattern similar to the activation of ERK1/2. Conclusion:The activation of ERK1/2 in the testis may be related to dedifferentiation of Sertoli cells under heat stress induced by experimental cryptorchidism.