Although little attention has been paid to cognitive and emotional dysfunctions observed in patients after spinal co rd injury,several reports have described impairments in cognitive abilities.Our group also has contr...Although little attention has been paid to cognitive and emotional dysfunctions observed in patients after spinal co rd injury,several reports have described impairments in cognitive abilities.Our group also has contributed significantly to the study of cognitive impairments in a rat model of spinal co rd injury.These findings are very significant because they demonstrate that cognitive and mood deficits are not induced by lifestyle changes,drugs of abuse,and combined medication.They are related to changes in brain structures involved in cognition and emotion,such as the hippocampus.Chronic spinal cord injury decreases neurogenesis,enhances glial reactivity leading to hippocampal neuroinflammation,and trigge rs cognitive deficits.These brain distal abnormalities are recently called te rtiary damage.Given that there is no treatment for Tertiary Damage,insulin growth factor 1 gene therapy emerges as a good candidate.Insulin growth factor 1 gene thera py recove rs neurogenesis and induces the polarization from pro-inflammato ry towards anti-inflammatory microglial phenotypes,which represents a potential strategy to treat the neuroinflammation that supports te rtiary damage.Insulin growth factor 1 gene therapy can be extended to other central nervous system pathologies such as traumatic brain injury where the neuroinflammatory component is crucial.Insulin growth factor 1 gene therapy could emerge as a new therapeutic strategy for treating traumatic brain injury and spinal cord injury.展开更多
AIM To clarify the relationship between the Insulin like growth factor Ⅱ (IGF Ⅱ), IGF Ⅱ receptor and chronic liver diseases and to provide evidences for basic and clinical researches for exploring the potential...AIM To clarify the relationship between the Insulin like growth factor Ⅱ (IGF Ⅱ), IGF Ⅱ receptor and chronic liver diseases and to provide evidences for basic and clinical researches for exploring the potential mechanisms of human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). METHODS The poly (A)+ mRNA translation of IGF Ⅱ and IGF Ⅱ receptor in dysplasia liver cell (DLC n =10), liver cirrhosis (LC n =9) and chronic active hepatitis (CAH n =9) were analyzed with RNA gel electrophoresis, Northern blot and hybridization using human IGF Ⅱ and IGF Ⅱ receptor DNA probes labelled with 32 P through Nick translation and autoradiography. RESULTS The overexpression of IGF Ⅱ in DLC (10/10, 100%) was apparently higher than that in CAH (3/9, 33%) and LC (3/9, 33%), ( P <0 01). The overexpression of IGF Ⅱ receptor in DLC (7/10, 70%) was significantly higher than that in CAH (2/9, 22%) and LC (3/9, 33%), respectively. The data of HBV infection from different chronic liver diseases were analyzed. CONCLUSION The overexpression of IGF Ⅱ and IGF Ⅱ receptor in DLC was related to the preceeding of malignant phenotype of hepatocyte, which provided a diagnostic value for early detection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Persistent HBV infection is strongly associated with abnormal activation of IGF Ⅱ and IGF Ⅱ receptor, which might indicate a stimulating mechanism of autocrine or paracrine growth involved in live cell carcinogenesis.展开更多
Constitutive activation of the insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-signaling axis is frequently observed in human hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).Especially the over- expression of the fetal growth factor IGF-Ⅱ,IGF-Ⅰ rec...Constitutive activation of the insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-signaling axis is frequently observed in human hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).Especially the over- expression of the fetal growth factor IGF-Ⅱ,IGF-Ⅰ receptor(IGF-IR),and cytoplasmic downstream effectors such as insulin-receptor substrates(IRS)contribute to proliferation,anti-apoptosis,and invasive behavior. This review focuses on the relevant alterations in this signaling pathway and independent in vivo models that support the central role IGF-Ⅱsignaling during HCC development and progression.Since this pathway has become the center of interest as a target for potential anti-cancer therapy in many types of malignancies,various experimental strategies have been developed,including neutralizing antibodies and selective receptor kinase inhibitors,with respect to the specific and efficient reduction of oncogenic IGF-Ⅱ/IGF-IR-signaling.展开更多
AIM: To investigate the effect of microR NA on insulinlike growth factor binding protein-3(IGFBP-3) and hence on insulin-like growth factor-Ⅱ(IGF-Ⅱ) bioavailability in hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).METHODS: Bioinfor...AIM: To investigate the effect of microR NA on insulinlike growth factor binding protein-3(IGFBP-3) and hence on insulin-like growth factor-Ⅱ(IGF-Ⅱ) bioavailability in hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).METHODS: Bioinformatic analysis was performed using microrna.org, DIANA lab and Segal lab softwares. Total RNA was extracted from 23 HCC and 10 healthy liver tissues using mir Vana mi RNA Isolation Kit. microR NA-17-5p(miR-17-5p) expression was mimicked and antagonized in Hu H-7 cell lines using Hi Per Fect Transfection Reagent, then total RNA was extracted using Biozol reagent then reverse transcribed into cD NA followed by quantification of mi R-17-5p and IGFBP-3 expression using Taq Man real-time quantitative PCR. Luciferase reporter assay was performed to validate the binding of miR-17-5p to the 3'UTR of IGFBP-3. Free IGF-Ⅱ protein was measured in transfected Hu H-7 cells using IGF-Ⅱ ELISA kit. RESULTS: Bioinformatic analysis revealed IGFBP-3 as a potential target for miR-17-5p. Screening of miR-17-5p and IGFBP-3 revealed a moderate negative correlation in HCC patients, where mi R-17-5p was extensively underexpressed in HCC tissues(P = 0.0012), while IGFBP-3 showed significant upregulation in the same set of patients(P = 0.0041) compared to healthy donors. Forcing mi R-17-5p expression in Hu H-7 cell lines showed a significant downregulation of IGFBP-3 mR NA expression(P = 0.0267) and a significant increase in free IGF-Ⅱ protein(P = 0.0339) compared to mock untransfected cells using unpaired t-test. Luciferase assay validated IGFBP-3 as a direct target of mi R-17-5p; luciferase activity was inhibited by 27.5% in cells co-transfected with miR-17-5p mimics and the construct harboring the wild-type binding region 2 of IGFBP-3 compared to cells transfected with this construct alone(P = 0.0474).CONCLUSION: These data suggest that regulating IGF-Ⅱ bioavailability and hence HCC progression can be achieved through targeting IGFBP-3 via manipulating the expression of miR NAs.展开更多
INTRODUCTIONInsulin-like growth factor Ⅱ(IGF-Ⅱ) is a mitogenic peptide of 74 kD and is mostly synthesized in fetal liver tissue .IGF-Ⅱ is believed to play an important role in fetal growth and development and is in...INTRODUCTIONInsulin-like growth factor Ⅱ(IGF-Ⅱ) is a mitogenic peptide of 74 kD and is mostly synthesized in fetal liver tissue .IGF-Ⅱ is believed to play an important role in fetal growth and development and is involved in cellular proliferation and differentiation[1-5]. Recently ,several researchers have reported increased expression of the IGF-Ⅱgene in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and adjacent non-cancerous liver tissues [6-10].展开更多
Sections of 30 cases of human cirrhosis were stained with rabbit anti-insulin-likegrowth factor Ⅱ(IGF Ⅱ)by double PAP method.By the serological examination 15 patientsshowed HBV infection and sections of 14 eases we...Sections of 30 cases of human cirrhosis were stained with rabbit anti-insulin-likegrowth factor Ⅱ(IGF Ⅱ)by double PAP method.By the serological examination 15 patientsshowed HBV infection and sections of 14 eases were HBsAg postively with a total rate of 67%(20 cases).The IGF Ⅱ was positive in the cytoplasm of all the liver and ductular cells.Binucle-ated,polypoid liver cells and the peripheral cells of the lobules or nodules were distinctly posi-tive,The liver cells which were strongly positive were a kind of thin polygonal cells with asmall oval or a round deeply stained nucleus in each.They might exist sporadically in the lob-ules or in the marginal portion of a nodule.These liver cells are quite different from the so-called oval cells which are derived from the proliferating ductules and are generally believed tobe responsible for the pathogensis of hepatoma.展开更多
BACKGROUND: Recent studies have found that insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) and insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) have stronger neurotrophic and neuroprotective effects. But whether their l...BACKGROUND: Recent studies have found that insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) and insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) have stronger neurotrophic and neuroprotective effects. But whether their levels in cerebrospinal fluid could be used as an auxiliary indicator in differentially diagnosing tuberculous meningitis and viral encephalitis is not yet clear. OBJECTIVE: To explore the changes of insulin-like growth factor-Ⅱ (IGF-Ⅱ ) and IGFBP-3 in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of children with tuberculous meningitis and the significance of the changes. DESIGN: A non-randomized concurrent controlled study. SETTING: Department of Pediatric Internal Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical College. PARTICIPANTS: Thirty children with tuberculous meningitis (14 males and 16 females) were selected from the Department of Pediatric Internal Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical College from January 2005 to December 2006. Tuberculous meningitis was diagnosed according to their clinical manifestations, the history of close contact with tuberculosis, typical cerebrospinal fluid changes of tuberculous meningitis, positive tuberculosis antibody and effective antituberculosis treatment. There were 30 children (13 males and 17 females) with viral encephalitis, and viral encephalitis was diagnosed according to epidemiological history, clinical manifestations, conventional and biochemical changes of cerebrospinal fluid, and negative bacteriology judgment. Meanwhile, 30 children (13 males and 17 females) without infectious and central nervous system disease were selected as the control group. Informed consent was obtained from the parents of all the enrolled children. METHODS: ①The lumbar puncture operation was implemented immediately to obtain cerebrospinal fluid (3 mL). The contents of IGF-Ⅱ and IGFBP-3 were detected with immunoradiometric assay. The concentrations of glucose and protein in cerebrospinal fluid were determined with a dry-chemical method. The number of white blood cells was counted by Fushi Method. ②The Pearson correlation analysis was used to analyze the correlation of the contents of IGF-Ⅱ and IGFBP-3 in cerebrospinal fluid with the leucocyte counting and the concentrations of glucose and protein in cerebrospinal fluid. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The contents of IGF- Ⅱ and IGFBP-3 in cerebrospinal fluid, and their correlation with the leucocyte counting and the concentrations of glucose and protein in cerebrospinal fluid. RESULTS: ①Contents of IGF-Ⅱ and IGFBP-3 in cerebrospinal fluid: The contents of IGF-Ⅱ and IGFBP-3 in cerebrospinal fluid in the tuberculous meningitis group were significantly higher than those in the encephalitis virus group and control group (P 〈 0.05). There was no significant difference in the contents of IGF- Ⅱ and IGFBP-3 in cerebrospinal fluid between the viral encephalitis group and control group (P 〉 0.05). ②Correlation: The IGF- Ⅱ and IGFBP-3 contents in cerebrospinal fluid were positively correlated with the protein concentration in cerebrospinal fluid (r =0.821, 0.855, P 〈 0.01), but negatively with the glucose (r =0.742, - 0.605, P 〈 0.01). CONCLUSION- ①IGFs and IGVBPs are involved in the pathophysiological process of tuberculous meningitis, as well as the glucose and protein metabolism in cerebrospinal fluid. ②The IGF-Ⅱ and IGFBP-3 contents in cerebrospinal fluid can be used as the auxiliary indicators to differentially diagnose tuberculous meningitis and viral enceohalitis.展开更多
The effects of antisense oligonucleotide to insulin-like growth factor 11 (IGFII) to induce apoptosis in human ovarian cancer cells were evaluated. Antiproliferation effects of antisense to IGFII in ovarian cancer AO ...The effects of antisense oligonucleotide to insulin-like growth factor 11 (IGFII) to induce apoptosis in human ovarian cancer cells were evaluated. Antiproliferation effects of antisense to IGFII in ovarian cancer AO cells were determined by 3H-thymidine incorporation. Apoptosis of the IGFll antisense-treated cells was quantitated by both nuclear condensation and flow cytometry after cells were stained with propidium iodide. IGFII antisense (4.5μM)treatment of 48 h maximally inhibited proliferation of AO cells. More than 25% of IGFII antisense-treated cells (4.5PM for 24 h) had undergone apoptosis, whereas less than 3% of the cells were apoptotic in either IGFII sense-treatedcells or untreated cells. Antisense oligonucleotide to IGFII significantly inhibited cell proliferation and induced apoptosis in human ovarian cancer AO cell. These data suggest that IGFII may be a potential target in treatment of ovarian cancer and antisense oligonucleotide to IGFⅡmay serve as a therapeutic approach.展开更多
Sixty cases of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and 47 cases of liver cirrhosis (LC) were examined with immunocytochemistry method using antibodies against IGF-II and HBxAg on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue se...Sixty cases of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and 47 cases of liver cirrhosis (LC) were examined with immunocytochemistry method using antibodies against IGF-II and HBxAg on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue sections. 32 HCC and 37 LC were found to be positive to HBxAg, in which the positive rates of IGF-II were 100% (32/32) and 94.6% (35/37) respectively. 28 HCC and 10 LC were found to be HBxAg negative, IGF-II was positive in 23 HCC (83.1%) and 6 LC (60%). The positive expression rates of IGF-II in HBxAg positive tissues were significantly higher than those in HBxAg negative tissues (P<0.05). There were three types of distribution of IGF-II expression in HCC and LC: (1) perinucleus; (2) diffuse in cytoplasm; (3) inside nucleus. IGF-II was highly expressed in most of hyperplastic and neoplastic nodules hepatocytes and some of regeneration nodules. Small polygonal liver cells (SPLCs) were found in the liver tissues surrounding the tumor and cirrhosis and they were positive to both IGF-II and HBxAg. The positive rates of IGF-II in SPLC were 86.4% (38/44) in the HBxAg-positive tissues and 40.5%, (15/37) in the HBxAg-negative tissues. The above findings suggest that IGF-II plays an important role in abnormal proliferation of HCC and SPLC. The relation between IGF-II andHBxAg and the nature of SPLCs are also discussed.展开更多
目的探讨食管鳞癌组织中microRNA let-7a-3甲基化状态与血浆中类胰岛素样生长因子2(Insulin like growth factor 2,IGF-Ⅱ)表达的相关性。方法采用甲基化特异性PCR法(Methylation specific PCR,qMSP)检测83例食管癌及相对应的癌旁正常...目的探讨食管鳞癌组织中microRNA let-7a-3甲基化状态与血浆中类胰岛素样生长因子2(Insulin like growth factor 2,IGF-Ⅱ)表达的相关性。方法采用甲基化特异性PCR法(Methylation specific PCR,qMSP)检测83例食管癌及相对应的癌旁正常组织中let-7a-3甲基化状态,采用酶联免疫吸附试验(Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay,ELISA)检测血浆中IGF-Ⅱ的表达水平。结果83例食管鳞癌患者癌组织中的microRNA let-7a-3甲基化程度显著高于癌旁正常组织(P<0.001)。83例食管鳞癌患者血浆中IGF-Ⅱ的表达水平与let-7a-3基因的甲基化程度总体上呈正相关,具有统计学意义(r=0.600,P<0.001)。结论microRNA let-7a-3可能通过对下游分子的甲基化调控参与食管鳞癌的发生发展,这对了解食管鳞癌形成的机制具有重要意义,可为食管鳞癌的诊断和预后提供依据。展开更多
Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Only 30%-40% of the patients with HCC are eligible for curative treatments, which include surgical resection as the first op...Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Only 30%-40% of the patients with HCC are eligible for curative treatments, which include surgical resection as the first option, liver transplantation and percutaneous ablation. Unfortunately, there is a high frequency of tumor recurrence after surgical resection and most HCC seem resistant to conventional chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Sorafenib, a multi-tyrosine kinase inhibitor, is the only chemotherapeutic option for patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. Patients treated with Sorafenib have a significant increase in overall survival of about three months. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop alternative treatments. Due to its role in cell growth and development, the insulin-like growth factor system is commonly deregulated in many cancers. Indeed, the insulin-like growth factor(IGF) axis has recently emerged as a potential target for hepatocellular carcinoma treatment. To this aim, several inhibitors of the pathway have been developed suchas monoclonal antibodies, small molecules, antisense oligonucleotides or small interfering RNAs. However recent studies suggest that, unlike most tumors, HCC development requires increased signaling through insulin growth factor Ⅱ rather than insulin growth factor Ⅰ. This may have great implications in the future treatment of HCC. This review summarizes the role of the IGF axis in liver carcinogenesis and the current status of the strategies designed to target the IGF-Ⅰ signaling pathway for hepatocellular carcinoma treatment.展开更多
The influence of early-stage intensive insulin therapy on the plasma levels of vascular en- dothelial growth factor (VEGF) and the related parameters in patients with severe trauma and the clini- cal implication wer...The influence of early-stage intensive insulin therapy on the plasma levels of vascular en- dothelial growth factor (VEGF) and the related parameters in patients with severe trauma and the clini- cal implication were investigated. Sixty-four cases of severe trauma (injury severity score 〉20) with stress hyperglycemia (blood glucose 〉9 mmol/L) were randomly divided into intensive insulin therapy group and conventional therapy group. ELISA method, radioimmunoassay and density gradient grada- tion one-step process were used to determine plasma VEGF, endothelin-1 (ET-1), and the number of circulating endothelial cells (CECs) at the day of 0, 2, 3, 5 and 7 after admission. Simultaneously, the changes of CRP concentration in plasma were monitored to evaluate inflammatory response. The results showed that plasma levels of observational indexes in patients receiving early-stage intensive insulin therapy were all significantly lower than those in conventional therapy groups 2, 3, 5 and 7 days after admission [for VEGF (ng/L), 122.2±23.8 vs. 135.9±26.5, 109.6±27.3 vs. 129.0±18.4, 88.7±18.2 vs. 102.6±27.3, 54.2±26.4 vs. 85.7±35.2, P〈0.05, 0.01, 0.05, 0.05 respectively; for ET-1 (ng/L), 162.8±23.5 vs. 173.7±13.2, 128.6±17.5 vs. 148.8±22.4, 96.5±14.8 vs. 125.7±14.8, 90.7±16.9 vs. 104.9±22.5, P〈0.05, 0.01, 0.01, 0.01 respectively; for CRP (mg/L), 23.2±13.8 vs. 31.9±16.5, 13.6±17.3 vs. 23.5±18.4, 8.7±10.2 vs. 15.6±13.3, 5.2±9.4 vs. 10.7±11.2, all P〈0.05; for CECs (/0.9 μL), 10.9±5.6 vs. 13.9±6.2, 8.5±4.9 vs. 11.3±5.3, 6.3±6.4 vs. 9.4±5.7, 4.8±7.1 vs. 7.8±4.8, all P〈0.05]. It was concluded that intensive insulin therapy could antagonize the endothelium injury after trauma and reduce inflammation response quickly, which was one of important mechanisms by which intensive insulin therapy improves the prognosis of trauma patients.展开更多
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 lympha...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.展开更多
OBJECTIVE: To study the value of serum insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) levels in differential diagnosis of growth hormone deficiency (GHD). METHODS: To measure serum IGFBP-3 levels by RIA in nor...OBJECTIVE: To study the value of serum insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) levels in differential diagnosis of growth hormone deficiency (GHD). METHODS: To measure serum IGFBP-3 levels by RIA in normal children and adolescents, GHD children and short-stature children without GHD. RESULTS: Serum level of IGFBP-3 in 129 children with untreated GHD and with no pubertal development was 1.6 +/- 0.9 mg/L, which was less than that in normal group of the same age, but overlapped with the normal children in Tanner stage I. After six-month treatment with recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH), serum level of IGFBP-3 in 59 GHD significantly increased from 1.3 +/- 0.7 mg/L to 2.7 +/- 0.9 mg/L, accompanied by an increase of body heights, growth velocities and serum level of IGF-1. Serum level of IGFBP-3 in 55 short-stature children without GHD was 3.3 +/- 2.2 mg/L, which was not significantly different from that in normal group. CONCLUSION: Serum IGFBP-3 level can reflect the status of GH secretion in children with GHD and is a useful marker for differential diagnosis of GHD.展开更多
The insulin/insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) signaling pathway is evolutionary conserved in diverse speciesincluding C.elegans, saccharomyces cerevisiae, Drosophila melanogaster, rodents and humans, which is invol...The insulin/insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) signaling pathway is evolutionary conserved in diverse speciesincluding C.elegans, saccharomyces cerevisiae, Drosophila melanogaster, rodents and humans, which is involved in many interrelated functions that are necessary for metabolism, growth and reproduction. Interestingly, more and more research has revealed that insulin/IGF-1 signaling pathway plays a pivotal role in the regulation of longevity. Generally, disruption of the power of this pathway will extend longevity in species ranging from C.elegansto humans. The role of insulin/IGF-1 in longevit yis probably related to stress resistance. Although the underlying mechanisms of longevity are not fully understood, the Insulin/IGF-1 signaling pathway has attracted substantial attention and it will be a novel target to prevent or postpone age-related diseases and extend life span. In this review, we mainly focus on the similar constitution and role of insulin/IGF-1 signaling pathway in C.elegans, saccharomyces cerevisiae, rodents and humans.展开更多
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 ra...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.展开更多
Brain integrity and cognitive aptitude are often impaired in patients with diabetes mellitus, presumably a result of the metabolic complications inherent to the disease. However, an increasing body of evidence has dem...Brain integrity and cognitive aptitude are often impaired in patients with diabetes mellitus, presumably a result of the metabolic complications inherent to the disease. However, an increasing body of evidence has demonstrated the central role of insulin-like growth factor 1(IGF1) and its relation to sex hormones in many neuroprotective processes. Both male and female patients with diabetes display abnormal IGF1 and sexhormone levels but the comparison of these fluctuations is seldom a topic of interest. It is interesting to note that both IGF1 and sex hormones have the ability to regulate phosphoinositide 3-kinase-Akt and mitogen-activated protein kinases-extracellular signal-related kinasesignaling cascades in animal and cell culture models of neuroprotection. Additionally, there is considerable evidence demonstrating the neuroprotective coupling of IGF1 and estrogen. Androgens have also been implicated in many neuroprotective processes that operate on similar signaling cascades as the estrogen-IGF1 relation. Yet, androgens have not been directly linked to the brain IGF1 system and neuroprotection. Despite the sex-specific variations in brain integrity and hormone levels observed in diabetic patients, the IGF1-sex hormone relation in neuroprotection has yet to be fully substantiated in experimental models of diabetes. Taken together, there is a clear need for the comprehensive analysis of sex differences on brain integrity of diabetic patients and the relationship between IGF1 and sex hormones that may influence brain-health outcomes. As such, this review will briefly outline the basic relation of diabetes and IGF1 and its role in neuroprotection. We will also consider the findings on sex hormones and diabetes as a basis for separately analyzing males and females to identify possible hormone-induced brain abnormalities. Finally, we will introduce the neuroprotective interplay of IGF1 and estrogen and how androgen-derived neuroprotection operates through similar signaling cascades. Future research on both neuroprotection and diabetes should include androgens into the interplay of IGF1 and sex hormones.展开更多
基金funded by grants PICT 2017 N°0509 from Argentine Ministry of Science and Technology and PIP 2017-2019 N°00301 from The National Research Council of Argentina granted to FLthe grant from The National Research Council of Argentina PIP 2014-2017(extended to 2020)0618 awarded to MJB。
文摘Although little attention has been paid to cognitive and emotional dysfunctions observed in patients after spinal co rd injury,several reports have described impairments in cognitive abilities.Our group also has contributed significantly to the study of cognitive impairments in a rat model of spinal co rd injury.These findings are very significant because they demonstrate that cognitive and mood deficits are not induced by lifestyle changes,drugs of abuse,and combined medication.They are related to changes in brain structures involved in cognition and emotion,such as the hippocampus.Chronic spinal cord injury decreases neurogenesis,enhances glial reactivity leading to hippocampal neuroinflammation,and trigge rs cognitive deficits.These brain distal abnormalities are recently called te rtiary damage.Given that there is no treatment for Tertiary Damage,insulin growth factor 1 gene therapy emerges as a good candidate.Insulin growth factor 1 gene thera py recove rs neurogenesis and induces the polarization from pro-inflammato ry towards anti-inflammatory microglial phenotypes,which represents a potential strategy to treat the neuroinflammation that supports te rtiary damage.Insulin growth factor 1 gene therapy can be extended to other central nervous system pathologies such as traumatic brain injury where the neuroinflammatory component is crucial.Insulin growth factor 1 gene therapy could emerge as a new therapeutic strategy for treating traumatic brain injury and spinal cord injury.
文摘AIM To clarify the relationship between the Insulin like growth factor Ⅱ (IGF Ⅱ), IGF Ⅱ receptor and chronic liver diseases and to provide evidences for basic and clinical researches for exploring the potential mechanisms of human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). METHODS The poly (A)+ mRNA translation of IGF Ⅱ and IGF Ⅱ receptor in dysplasia liver cell (DLC n =10), liver cirrhosis (LC n =9) and chronic active hepatitis (CAH n =9) were analyzed with RNA gel electrophoresis, Northern blot and hybridization using human IGF Ⅱ and IGF Ⅱ receptor DNA probes labelled with 32 P through Nick translation and autoradiography. RESULTS The overexpression of IGF Ⅱ in DLC (10/10, 100%) was apparently higher than that in CAH (3/9, 33%) and LC (3/9, 33%), ( P <0 01). The overexpression of IGF Ⅱ receptor in DLC (7/10, 70%) was significantly higher than that in CAH (2/9, 22%) and LC (3/9, 33%), respectively. The data of HBV infection from different chronic liver diseases were analyzed. CONCLUSION The overexpression of IGF Ⅱ and IGF Ⅱ receptor in DLC was related to the preceeding of malignant phenotype of hepatocyte, which provided a diagnostic value for early detection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Persistent HBV infection is strongly associated with abnormal activation of IGF Ⅱ and IGF Ⅱ receptor, which might indicate a stimulating mechanism of autocrine or paracrine growth involved in live cell carcinogenesis.
文摘Constitutive activation of the insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-signaling axis is frequently observed in human hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).Especially the over- expression of the fetal growth factor IGF-Ⅱ,IGF-Ⅰ receptor(IGF-IR),and cytoplasmic downstream effectors such as insulin-receptor substrates(IRS)contribute to proliferation,anti-apoptosis,and invasive behavior. This review focuses on the relevant alterations in this signaling pathway and independent in vivo models that support the central role IGF-Ⅱsignaling during HCC development and progression.Since this pathway has become the center of interest as a target for potential anti-cancer therapy in many types of malignancies,various experimental strategies have been developed,including neutralizing antibodies and selective receptor kinase inhibitors,with respect to the specific and efficient reduction of oncogenic IGF-Ⅱ/IGF-IR-signaling.
文摘AIM: To investigate the effect of microR NA on insulinlike growth factor binding protein-3(IGFBP-3) and hence on insulin-like growth factor-Ⅱ(IGF-Ⅱ) bioavailability in hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).METHODS: Bioinformatic analysis was performed using microrna.org, DIANA lab and Segal lab softwares. Total RNA was extracted from 23 HCC and 10 healthy liver tissues using mir Vana mi RNA Isolation Kit. microR NA-17-5p(miR-17-5p) expression was mimicked and antagonized in Hu H-7 cell lines using Hi Per Fect Transfection Reagent, then total RNA was extracted using Biozol reagent then reverse transcribed into cD NA followed by quantification of mi R-17-5p and IGFBP-3 expression using Taq Man real-time quantitative PCR. Luciferase reporter assay was performed to validate the binding of miR-17-5p to the 3'UTR of IGFBP-3. Free IGF-Ⅱ protein was measured in transfected Hu H-7 cells using IGF-Ⅱ ELISA kit. RESULTS: Bioinformatic analysis revealed IGFBP-3 as a potential target for miR-17-5p. Screening of miR-17-5p and IGFBP-3 revealed a moderate negative correlation in HCC patients, where mi R-17-5p was extensively underexpressed in HCC tissues(P = 0.0012), while IGFBP-3 showed significant upregulation in the same set of patients(P = 0.0041) compared to healthy donors. Forcing mi R-17-5p expression in Hu H-7 cell lines showed a significant downregulation of IGFBP-3 mR NA expression(P = 0.0267) and a significant increase in free IGF-Ⅱ protein(P = 0.0339) compared to mock untransfected cells using unpaired t-test. Luciferase assay validated IGFBP-3 as a direct target of mi R-17-5p; luciferase activity was inhibited by 27.5% in cells co-transfected with miR-17-5p mimics and the construct harboring the wild-type binding region 2 of IGFBP-3 compared to cells transfected with this construct alone(P = 0.0474).CONCLUSION: These data suggest that regulating IGF-Ⅱ bioavailability and hence HCC progression can be achieved through targeting IGFBP-3 via manipulating the expression of miR NAs.
基金Project supported by the National Nature Science Foundation of China,No.39470774
文摘INTRODUCTIONInsulin-like growth factor Ⅱ(IGF-Ⅱ) is a mitogenic peptide of 74 kD and is mostly synthesized in fetal liver tissue .IGF-Ⅱ is believed to play an important role in fetal growth and development and is involved in cellular proliferation and differentiation[1-5]. Recently ,several researchers have reported increased expression of the IGF-Ⅱgene in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and adjacent non-cancerous liver tissues [6-10].
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.3880376
文摘Sections of 30 cases of human cirrhosis were stained with rabbit anti-insulin-likegrowth factor Ⅱ(IGF Ⅱ)by double PAP method.By the serological examination 15 patientsshowed HBV infection and sections of 14 eases were HBsAg postively with a total rate of 67%(20 cases).The IGF Ⅱ was positive in the cytoplasm of all the liver and ductular cells.Binucle-ated,polypoid liver cells and the peripheral cells of the lobules or nodules were distinctly posi-tive,The liver cells which were strongly positive were a kind of thin polygonal cells with asmall oval or a round deeply stained nucleus in each.They might exist sporadically in the lob-ules or in the marginal portion of a nodule.These liver cells are quite different from the so-called oval cells which are derived from the proliferating ductules and are generally believed tobe responsible for the pathogensis of hepatoma.
基金a grant from the New Century Talents Supporting Scheme in Universities of Henan Province
文摘BACKGROUND: Recent studies have found that insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) and insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) have stronger neurotrophic and neuroprotective effects. But whether their levels in cerebrospinal fluid could be used as an auxiliary indicator in differentially diagnosing tuberculous meningitis and viral encephalitis is not yet clear. OBJECTIVE: To explore the changes of insulin-like growth factor-Ⅱ (IGF-Ⅱ ) and IGFBP-3 in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of children with tuberculous meningitis and the significance of the changes. DESIGN: A non-randomized concurrent controlled study. SETTING: Department of Pediatric Internal Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical College. PARTICIPANTS: Thirty children with tuberculous meningitis (14 males and 16 females) were selected from the Department of Pediatric Internal Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical College from January 2005 to December 2006. Tuberculous meningitis was diagnosed according to their clinical manifestations, the history of close contact with tuberculosis, typical cerebrospinal fluid changes of tuberculous meningitis, positive tuberculosis antibody and effective antituberculosis treatment. There were 30 children (13 males and 17 females) with viral encephalitis, and viral encephalitis was diagnosed according to epidemiological history, clinical manifestations, conventional and biochemical changes of cerebrospinal fluid, and negative bacteriology judgment. Meanwhile, 30 children (13 males and 17 females) without infectious and central nervous system disease were selected as the control group. Informed consent was obtained from the parents of all the enrolled children. METHODS: ①The lumbar puncture operation was implemented immediately to obtain cerebrospinal fluid (3 mL). The contents of IGF-Ⅱ and IGFBP-3 were detected with immunoradiometric assay. The concentrations of glucose and protein in cerebrospinal fluid were determined with a dry-chemical method. The number of white blood cells was counted by Fushi Method. ②The Pearson correlation analysis was used to analyze the correlation of the contents of IGF-Ⅱ and IGFBP-3 in cerebrospinal fluid with the leucocyte counting and the concentrations of glucose and protein in cerebrospinal fluid. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The contents of IGF- Ⅱ and IGFBP-3 in cerebrospinal fluid, and their correlation with the leucocyte counting and the concentrations of glucose and protein in cerebrospinal fluid. RESULTS: ①Contents of IGF-Ⅱ and IGFBP-3 in cerebrospinal fluid: The contents of IGF-Ⅱ and IGFBP-3 in cerebrospinal fluid in the tuberculous meningitis group were significantly higher than those in the encephalitis virus group and control group (P 〈 0.05). There was no significant difference in the contents of IGF- Ⅱ and IGFBP-3 in cerebrospinal fluid between the viral encephalitis group and control group (P 〉 0.05). ②Correlation: The IGF- Ⅱ and IGFBP-3 contents in cerebrospinal fluid were positively correlated with the protein concentration in cerebrospinal fluid (r =0.821, 0.855, P 〈 0.01), but negatively with the glucose (r =0.742, - 0.605, P 〈 0.01). CONCLUSION- ①IGFs and IGVBPs are involved in the pathophysiological process of tuberculous meningitis, as well as the glucose and protein metabolism in cerebrospinal fluid. ②The IGF-Ⅱ and IGFBP-3 contents in cerebrospinal fluid can be used as the auxiliary indicators to differentially diagnose tuberculous meningitis and viral enceohalitis.
文摘The effects of antisense oligonucleotide to insulin-like growth factor 11 (IGFII) to induce apoptosis in human ovarian cancer cells were evaluated. Antiproliferation effects of antisense to IGFII in ovarian cancer AO cells were determined by 3H-thymidine incorporation. Apoptosis of the IGFll antisense-treated cells was quantitated by both nuclear condensation and flow cytometry after cells were stained with propidium iodide. IGFII antisense (4.5μM)treatment of 48 h maximally inhibited proliferation of AO cells. More than 25% of IGFII antisense-treated cells (4.5PM for 24 h) had undergone apoptosis, whereas less than 3% of the cells were apoptotic in either IGFII sense-treatedcells or untreated cells. Antisense oligonucleotide to IGFII significantly inhibited cell proliferation and induced apoptosis in human ovarian cancer AO cell. These data suggest that IGFII may be a potential target in treatment of ovarian cancer and antisense oligonucleotide to IGFⅡmay serve as a therapeutic approach.
基金This work was supported by National Science Foundation of China(No.3880376)by the Medical Science Foundation fPLA.
文摘Sixty cases of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and 47 cases of liver cirrhosis (LC) were examined with immunocytochemistry method using antibodies against IGF-II and HBxAg on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue sections. 32 HCC and 37 LC were found to be positive to HBxAg, in which the positive rates of IGF-II were 100% (32/32) and 94.6% (35/37) respectively. 28 HCC and 10 LC were found to be HBxAg negative, IGF-II was positive in 23 HCC (83.1%) and 6 LC (60%). The positive expression rates of IGF-II in HBxAg positive tissues were significantly higher than those in HBxAg negative tissues (P<0.05). There were three types of distribution of IGF-II expression in HCC and LC: (1) perinucleus; (2) diffuse in cytoplasm; (3) inside nucleus. IGF-II was highly expressed in most of hyperplastic and neoplastic nodules hepatocytes and some of regeneration nodules. Small polygonal liver cells (SPLCs) were found in the liver tissues surrounding the tumor and cirrhosis and they were positive to both IGF-II and HBxAg. The positive rates of IGF-II in SPLC were 86.4% (38/44) in the HBxAg-positive tissues and 40.5%, (15/37) in the HBxAg-negative tissues. The above findings suggest that IGF-II plays an important role in abnormal proliferation of HCC and SPLC. The relation between IGF-II andHBxAg and the nature of SPLCs are also discussed.
基金Supported by Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovacion BIO2009/09295 and SAF2012-40003FEDER funding,funds from the"UTE project CIMA"+1 种基金the project RNAREG(CSD2009-00080)from The Ministry of Science and Innovation under the programme CONSOLIDER INGENIO 2010
文摘Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Only 30%-40% of the patients with HCC are eligible for curative treatments, which include surgical resection as the first option, liver transplantation and percutaneous ablation. Unfortunately, there is a high frequency of tumor recurrence after surgical resection and most HCC seem resistant to conventional chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Sorafenib, a multi-tyrosine kinase inhibitor, is the only chemotherapeutic option for patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. Patients treated with Sorafenib have a significant increase in overall survival of about three months. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop alternative treatments. Due to its role in cell growth and development, the insulin-like growth factor system is commonly deregulated in many cancers. Indeed, the insulin-like growth factor(IGF) axis has recently emerged as a potential target for hepatocellular carcinoma treatment. To this aim, several inhibitors of the pathway have been developed suchas monoclonal antibodies, small molecules, antisense oligonucleotides or small interfering RNAs. However recent studies suggest that, unlike most tumors, HCC development requires increased signaling through insulin growth factor Ⅱ rather than insulin growth factor Ⅰ. This may have great implications in the future treatment of HCC. This review summarizes the role of the IGF axis in liver carcinogenesis and the current status of the strategies designed to target the IGF-Ⅰ signaling pathway for hepatocellular carcinoma treatment.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 30700869)
文摘The influence of early-stage intensive insulin therapy on the plasma levels of vascular en- dothelial growth factor (VEGF) and the related parameters in patients with severe trauma and the clini- cal implication were investigated. Sixty-four cases of severe trauma (injury severity score 〉20) with stress hyperglycemia (blood glucose 〉9 mmol/L) were randomly divided into intensive insulin therapy group and conventional therapy group. ELISA method, radioimmunoassay and density gradient grada- tion one-step process were used to determine plasma VEGF, endothelin-1 (ET-1), and the number of circulating endothelial cells (CECs) at the day of 0, 2, 3, 5 and 7 after admission. Simultaneously, the changes of CRP concentration in plasma were monitored to evaluate inflammatory response. The results showed that plasma levels of observational indexes in patients receiving early-stage intensive insulin therapy were all significantly lower than those in conventional therapy groups 2, 3, 5 and 7 days after admission [for VEGF (ng/L), 122.2±23.8 vs. 135.9±26.5, 109.6±27.3 vs. 129.0±18.4, 88.7±18.2 vs. 102.6±27.3, 54.2±26.4 vs. 85.7±35.2, P〈0.05, 0.01, 0.05, 0.05 respectively; for ET-1 (ng/L), 162.8±23.5 vs. 173.7±13.2, 128.6±17.5 vs. 148.8±22.4, 96.5±14.8 vs. 125.7±14.8, 90.7±16.9 vs. 104.9±22.5, P〈0.05, 0.01, 0.01, 0.01 respectively; for CRP (mg/L), 23.2±13.8 vs. 31.9±16.5, 13.6±17.3 vs. 23.5±18.4, 8.7±10.2 vs. 15.6±13.3, 5.2±9.4 vs. 10.7±11.2, all P〈0.05; for CECs (/0.9 μL), 10.9±5.6 vs. 13.9±6.2, 8.5±4.9 vs. 11.3±5.3, 6.3±6.4 vs. 9.4±5.7, 4.8±7.1 vs. 7.8±4.8, all P〈0.05]. It was concluded that intensive insulin therapy could antagonize the endothelium injury after trauma and reduce inflammation response quickly, which was one of important mechanisms by which intensive insulin therapy improves the prognosis of trauma patients.
基金Supported by Technological Research Project for Public Welfare from Science and Technology Department of Zhejiang Province,No.2010C33099
文摘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.
文摘OBJECTIVE: To study the value of serum insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) levels in differential diagnosis of growth hormone deficiency (GHD). METHODS: To measure serum IGFBP-3 levels by RIA in normal children and adolescents, GHD children and short-stature children without GHD. RESULTS: Serum level of IGFBP-3 in 129 children with untreated GHD and with no pubertal development was 1.6 +/- 0.9 mg/L, which was less than that in normal group of the same age, but overlapped with the normal children in Tanner stage I. After six-month treatment with recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH), serum level of IGFBP-3 in 59 GHD significantly increased from 1.3 +/- 0.7 mg/L to 2.7 +/- 0.9 mg/L, accompanied by an increase of body heights, growth velocities and serum level of IGF-1. Serum level of IGFBP-3 in 55 short-stature children without GHD was 3.3 +/- 2.2 mg/L, which was not significantly different from that in normal group. CONCLUSION: Serum IGFBP-3 level can reflect the status of GH secretion in children with GHD and is a useful marker for differential diagnosis of GHD.
基金Supported by the Major State Basic Research Development Program of China (973 Program), No. G2000057010
文摘The insulin/insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) signaling pathway is evolutionary conserved in diverse speciesincluding C.elegans, saccharomyces cerevisiae, Drosophila melanogaster, rodents and humans, which is involved in many interrelated functions that are necessary for metabolism, growth and reproduction. Interestingly, more and more research has revealed that insulin/IGF-1 signaling pathway plays a pivotal role in the regulation of longevity. Generally, disruption of the power of this pathway will extend longevity in species ranging from C.elegansto humans. The role of insulin/IGF-1 in longevit yis probably related to stress resistance. Although the underlying mechanisms of longevity are not fully understood, the Insulin/IGF-1 signaling pathway has attracted substantial attention and it will be a novel target to prevent or postpone age-related diseases and extend life span. In this review, we mainly focus on the similar constitution and role of insulin/IGF-1 signaling pathway in C.elegans, saccharomyces cerevisiae, rodents and humans.
文摘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.
文摘Brain integrity and cognitive aptitude are often impaired in patients with diabetes mellitus, presumably a result of the metabolic complications inherent to the disease. However, an increasing body of evidence has demonstrated the central role of insulin-like growth factor 1(IGF1) and its relation to sex hormones in many neuroprotective processes. Both male and female patients with diabetes display abnormal IGF1 and sexhormone levels but the comparison of these fluctuations is seldom a topic of interest. It is interesting to note that both IGF1 and sex hormones have the ability to regulate phosphoinositide 3-kinase-Akt and mitogen-activated protein kinases-extracellular signal-related kinasesignaling cascades in animal and cell culture models of neuroprotection. Additionally, there is considerable evidence demonstrating the neuroprotective coupling of IGF1 and estrogen. Androgens have also been implicated in many neuroprotective processes that operate on similar signaling cascades as the estrogen-IGF1 relation. Yet, androgens have not been directly linked to the brain IGF1 system and neuroprotection. Despite the sex-specific variations in brain integrity and hormone levels observed in diabetic patients, the IGF1-sex hormone relation in neuroprotection has yet to be fully substantiated in experimental models of diabetes. Taken together, there is a clear need for the comprehensive analysis of sex differences on brain integrity of diabetic patients and the relationship between IGF1 and sex hormones that may influence brain-health outcomes. As such, this review will briefly outline the basic relation of diabetes and IGF1 and its role in neuroprotection. We will also consider the findings on sex hormones and diabetes as a basis for separately analyzing males and females to identify possible hormone-induced brain abnormalities. Finally, we will introduce the neuroprotective interplay of IGF1 and estrogen and how androgen-derived neuroprotection operates through similar signaling cascades. Future research on both neuroprotection and diabetes should include androgens into the interplay of IGF1 and sex hormones.