Enhancement of porcine in vitro embryonic development through luteolin‑mediated activation of the Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway

Background Oxidative stress,caused by an imbalance in the production and elimination of intracellular reactive oxygen species(ROS),has been recognized for its detrimental effects on mammalian embryonic development.Luteolin(Lut)has been documented for its protective effects against oxidative stress in various studies.However,its specific role in embryonic development remains unexplored.This study aims to investigate the influence of Lut on porcine embryonic development and to elucidate the underlying mechanism.Results After undergoing parthenogenetic activation(PA)or in vitro fertilization,embryos supplemented with 0.5μmol/L Lut displayed a significant enhancement in cleavage and blastocyst formation rates,with an increase in total cell numbers and a decrease in the apoptosis rate compared to the control.Measurements on D2 and D6 revealed that embryos with Lut supplementation had lower ROS levels and higher glutathione levels compared to the control.Moreover,Lut supplementation significantly augmented mitochondrial content and membrane potential.Intriguingly,activation of the Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway was observed in embryos supplemented with Lut,leading to the upregulation of antioxidant-related gene transcription levels.To further validate the relationship between the Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway and effects of Lut in porcine embryonic development,we cultured PA embryos in a medium supplemented with brusatol,with or without the inclusion of Lut.The positive effects of Lut on developmental competence were negated by brusatol treatment.Conclusions Our findings indicate that Lut-mediated activation of the Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway contributes to the enhanced production of porcine embryos with high developmental competence,and offers insight into the mechanisms regulating early embryonic development.

X-Paste improves wound healing in diabetes via NF-E2-related factor/HO-1 signaling pathway

BACKGROUND Diabetic foot ulcers(DFU),as severe complications of diabetes mellitus(DM),significantly compromise patient health and carry risks of amputation and mortality.AIM To offer new insights into the occurrence and development of DFU,focusing on the therapeutic mechanisms of X-Paste(XP)of wound healing in diabetic mice.METHODS Employing traditional Chinese medicine ointment preparation methods,XP combines various medicinal ingredients.High-performance liquid chromatography(HPLC)identified XP’s main components.Using streptozotocin(STZ)-induced diabetic,we aimed to investigate whether XP participated in the process of diabetic wound healing.RNA-sequencing analyzed gene expression differences between XP-treated and control groups.Molecular docking clarified XP’s treatment mechanisms for diabetic wound healing.Human umbilical vein endothelial cells(HUVECs)were used to investigate the effects of Andrographolide(Andro)on cell viability,reactive oxygen species generation,apoptosis,proliferation,and metastasis in vitro following exposure to high glucose(HG),while NF-E2-related factor-2(Nrf2)knockdown elucidated Andro’s molecular mechanisms.RESULTS XP notably enhanced wound healing in mice,expediting the healing process.RNA-sequencing revealed Nrf2 upregulation in DM tissues following XP treatment.HPLC identified 21 primary XP components,with Andro exhibiting strong Nrf2 binding.Andro mitigated HG-induced HUVECs proliferation,metastasis,angiogenic injury,and inflammation inhibition.Andro alleviates HG-induced HUVECs damage through Nrf2/HO-1 pathway activation,with Nrf2 knockdown reducing Andro’s proliferative and endothelial protective effects.CONCLUSION XP significantly promotes wound healing in STZ-induced diabetic models.As XP’s key component,Andro activates the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway,enhancing cell proliferation,tubule formation,and inflammation reduction.

Exploring the mechanism of electroacupuncture at different acupoints on acute colitis rats based on JAK2/STAT3/SOCS1 signaling pathway

Objective:To investigate the mechanism of JAK2/STAT3/SOCS1 signaling pathway in electroacupuncture of different acupoints on acute colitis rats.Methods:36 SPF SD rats were randomly divided into 6 groups,with 6 rats in each group.The rat model of acute colitis was prepared by enema with glacial acetic acid solution.After the model was established,electroacupuncture was given to each acupoint group,with density wave,frequency 2Hz-50 Hz,intensity 2 mA,muscle tremor as the degree 20 min/time,1 time/day,for 3 consecutive days.Observe the general condition of rats;the pathological changes of colonic mucosa in rats were observed by HE method.The contents of serum interleukin-4(IL-4)and interleukin-8(IL-8)were detected by ELISA.Western blot and RT-PCR were used to detect the expression of JAK2,STAT3,SOCS1 protein and mRNA in rat colon tissue.Results:In contrast to the normal group,the overall condition of the model group was worse,the colonic mucosa was severely damaged,even necrotic,and the ulcer surface was obvious.The content of IL-4 in serum was obviously reduced,and the content of IL-8 was obviously go up(P<0.01).The protein content of JAK2,STAT3 and the expression of JAK2,STAT3 mRNA in colon tissue of rats were obviously go up,while the protein content of SOCS1 and the expression of SOCS1 mRNA were obviously reduced(P<0.01).In contrast to the model group,the general condition of rats in each acupoint group was significantly improved,the damage and necrosis of colonic mucosa and ulcer surface were obviously alleviated,the content of IL-4 in serum was obviously go up,and the content of IL-8 was significantly decreased(P<0.01).The protein content of JAK2,STAT3 and the expression of JAK2,STAT3 mRNA in colon tissue of rats were obviously reduced,while the protein content of SOCS1 and the expression of SOCS1 mRNA were obviously go up(P<0.05,P<0.01).Comparison of different acupoint groups,the colonic mucosal injury in the Zusanli group was significantly reduced,the content of serum IL-4 was significantly increased,and the content of IL-8 was significantly decreased(P<0.05,P<0.01).The protein content and mRNA expression of JAK2 and STAT3 in colon tissue were significantly down-regulated,while the protein content and mRNA expression of SOCS1 were significantly go up(P<0.05,P<0.01).Conclusion:Electroacupuncture at each acupoint can improve the damage of colonic mucosa and reduce the inflammatory response.The therapeutic effect of Zusanli(ST36)is better than that of Tianshu(ST25),Dachangshu(BL25)and Shangjuxu(ST37).The mechanism may be related to the regulation of JAK2/STAT3/SOCS1 signaling pathway related proteins and inflammatory cytokines IL-4 and IL-8.

Effects of Cigu Xiaozhi Formula on miR-378a-3p Expression and Hh Signaling Pathway in TGF-β1 Induced LX2 Cells

[Objectives]To observe the effects of Cigu Xiaozhi Formula on miR-378a-3p expression and Hh signaling pathway in TGF-β1 induced and activated LX2 cells.[Methods]Cells were divided into control group,induction group,drug-containing serum group,miR-378a-3p inhibitor group,and miR inhibitor NC group.CCK-8 method was used to detect the cell viability of each group,and flow cytometry was used to detect the apoptosis rate of each group.RT-qPCR was used to detect the expression of miR-378a-3p in each group s cells,and RT-qPCR and Western blot were used to detect mRNA and protein expression of Shh,Gli1,Gli2,Col-I,andα-SMA in each group s cells.[Results]Compared with the control group,the cell viability and expression of Shh,Gli1,Gli2,Col-I,andα-SMA mRNA and protein in induction group increased(P<0.01),while the expression of miR-378a-3p decreased(P<0.01).Compared with the induction group,the cell viability and expression of Shh,Gli1,Gli2,Col-I,α-SMA mRNA andα-SMA and Gli2 protein decreased in drug-containing serum group(P<0.05),while cell apoptosis rate and miR-378a-3p expression increased(P<0.01).In miR-378a-3p inhibitor group,cell viability and the expression of Shh,Gli1,Gli2,Col-I,α-SMA mRNA and Gli1,Gli2,α-SMA protein increased(P<0.05,P<0.01),while the apoptosis rate and miR-378a-3p expression decreased(P<0.05,P<0.01).[Conclusions]Cigu Xiaozhi Formula containing serum can upregulate miR-378a-3p expression and downregulate the expression of Gli2 andα-SMA in TGF-β1 induced LX2 cells,thereby inhibiting the activation of LX2 cells and exerting the effects of anti liver fibrosis.

基于Ang1/Tie2信号通路研究周细胞调控腹膜血管新生的作用机制

目的:本研究旨在通过观察血管周细胞与血管内皮细胞间的相互作用,探讨周细胞调控腹膜血管新生的作用机制。方法:使用转化生长因子β1(TGF-β1)干预人微血管周细胞(HMPCs)24、48和96 h,Western blot检测HMPCs中血管生成素1(Ang1)的表达。收集TGF-β1干预HMPCs后的上清液作为条件培养基(T-HMPCs-CM),用T-HMPCs-CM处理人腹膜血管内皮细胞(HPVECs)构建间接共培养模式;将TGF-β1处理过的HMPCs与HPVECs共同接种于基质胶上,构建直接共培养模式;以未经TGF-β1处理的HMPCs作为阴性对照组,以外源性Ang1处理的HPVECs作为阳性对照组,以人血管生成素受体Tie2抑制剂处理的HPVECs作为抑制剂组。采用CCK-8法、细胞划痕实验、Transwell实验、成管实验和细胞膜荧光探针染色法观察HPVECs增殖、迁移、血管生成情况,以及HPVECs与HMPCs共定位情况;Western blot检测HPVECs中Tie2蛋白及其磷酸化水平。结果:TGF-β1处理96 h,HMPCs中Ang1蛋白表达水平显著升高(P<0.01)。与阴性对照组相比,T-HMPCs-CM能够抑制HPVECs迁移、血管新生,并增加Tie2磷酸化以稳定血管状态,其作用类似于外源性Ang1;而使用Tie2抑制剂阻断Ang1/Tie2信号通路后,上述作用一定程度上被逆转。结论:TGF-β1可刺激HMPCs分泌Ang1,进而激活HPVECs的Tie2信号通路,从而抑制HPVECs血管新生,发挥维持腹膜血管稳定的作用。

寿胎丸对控制性超促排卵围着床期小鼠子宫内膜Ang1、Tie2表达的影响

目的通过观察小鼠围着床期子宫内膜促血管生成因子1(angiopoietins 1,Ang1)、酪氨酸蛋白激酶2(tyrosine kinase receptors 2,Tie2)的表达,研究寿胎丸改善控制性超促排卵(controlled ovarian hyperstimulation,COH)后围着床期小鼠子宫内膜容受性的作用机制。方法选取未孕小鼠,随机分成正常组、模型组、寿胎丸低剂量组、寿胎丸中剂量组、寿胎丸高剂量组,分别予以醋酸亮丙瑞林微球、尿促性腺激素(human menopausal gonadotropin,HMG)、人绒毛膜促性腺激素(human chorionic gonadotophin,HCG)注射造模。0.9%氯化钠溶液、不同浓度中药灌胃。造模成功后,各组分别与雄性小鼠合笼,于合笼成功第2天(D2)、第4天(D4)、第6天(D6)取小鼠子宫内膜组织,运用免疫组化法及Western blot法检测Ang1、Tie2蛋白的表达情况。结果与模型组比较,寿胎丸中、高剂量组小鼠子宫内膜Ang1、Tie2表达量增加,差异具有统计学意义(P<0.05)。结论(1)COH减少围着床期小鼠子宫内膜Ang1、Tie2的表达,干扰子宫内膜血管生成,从而降低子宫内膜容受性。(2)寿胎丸可通过提高COH后小鼠围着床期Ang1、Tie2的表达,促进子宫内膜血管生成,改善子宫内膜容受性。

Endogenous hydrogen sulfide and ERK1/2-STAT3 signaling pathway may participate in the association between homocysteine and hypertension

Background Homocysteine(Hcy)is a risk factor for hypertension,although the mechanisms are poorly understood.Methods We first explored the relationship between Hcy levels and blood pressure(BP)by analyzing the clinical data of primary hypertensive patients admitted to our hospital.Secondly,we explored a rat model to study the effect of Hcy on blood pressure and the role of H2S.An hyperhomocysteinemia(HHcy)rat model was induced to explore the effect of Hcy on blood pressure and the possible mechanism.We carried out tissue histology,extraction and examination of RNA and protein.Finally,we conducted cell experiments to determine a likely mechanism through renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system(RAAS)and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2(ERK1/2)signaling pathway.Results In primary hypertensive inpatients with HHcy,blood pressure was significantly higher as compared with inpatient counterparts lacking HHcy.In the rat model,blood pressure of the Wistar rats was significantly increased with increases in serum Hcy levels and decreased after folate treatment.Angiotensin converting enzyme 1(ACE1)expression in the Wistar Hcy group was enhanced comparing to controls,but was decreased in the Wistar folate group.Angiotensin II receptor type 1(AGTR1)levels in the kidney tissue increased in the Wistar folate group.Both serum H2S and kidney cystathionineγ-lyase decreased with elevated levels of serum Hcy.In vitro,increased concentrations and treatment times for Hcy were associated with increased expression of collagen type 1 and AGTR1.This dose and time dependent response was also observed for p-STAT3 and p-ERK1/2 expression.Conclusion Endogenous H2S might mediate the process of altered blood pressure in response to changes in serum Hcy levels,in a process that is partly dependent on activated RAAS and ERK1/2-STAT3 signaling pathway.

The role of ERK1/2 signaling pathway in coronary microembolization-induced rat myocardial inflammation and injury

Objectives In this work,we explore the effect of atorvastatin on myocardial apoptosis and caspase-8 acti- vation after coronary microembolization(CME) in rats. Methods Fifty rats were randomly divided into five groups; the coronary microembolization(CME) group,the sham-operated (sham) control group,the gastric lavage control group, the atorvastatin lavage group,and the caspasse-8 inhibitor (N-acetyl-Ile-Glu-Thr-Asp-CHO,abbreviated as CHO) group,with 10 rats for each group.A microembolization ball was injected through the left ventricle for constructing the CME model.Animals in the sham control group were given an injection of physiological saline instead of the microembolization ball.Seven days before the operation,the atorvastatin group underwent gastric lavage with 20 mg/kg of atorvastatin once a day.Gastric lavage control animals underwent gastric lavage with an equivalent dose of physiological saline instead of the atorvastatin.Animals in the CHO group were given an intraperitoneal injection of 10 mg/kg of CHO 30 min before the operation.Six hours after the operation,cardiac ultrasonic detection was conducted on each group to measure the cardiac function indexes.TUNEL(Terminal-deoxynucleoitidyl transferase mediated dUTP nick end labeling) assays were used to measure myocardial apoptosis,and western blots were used to quantify the expression levels of activated caspase-3 and -8.Results(1) The echocardiographic parameters showed that,compared to the sham control animals,the left ventricular ejection fraction(LVEF) of the CME group was significantly decreased(P【0.05).In addition, cardiac sonography revealed a decrease in the left ventricular shortening fraction(FS) and cardiac output(CO), but an increase in the left ventricular end-diastolic dimension (LVEDd).Compared to the CME group,the atorvastatin and CHO groups exhibited significantly improved cardiac function (P【0.05).(2) When compared with the sham control,the myocardical apoptotic rate of the CME group,as well as the levels of activated caspase-3 and-8,increased significantly (P【0.05).The myocardial apoptotic rate,as well as the levels of activated caspase-3 and caspase-8 in the atorvastatin and CHO groups,decreased significandy(P【0.05) in comparison to the CME group.Conclusions The atorvastatin pretreatment clearly suppressed post-CME myocardial apoptosis and improved cardiac function.The most likely mechanism for these effects is the blockade of the myocardial death receptor -mediated apoptosis pathway.

Tie2、Ang1和Ang2蛋白在血管瘤和血管畸形中的表达及临床意义

目的探讨Tie2、Ang1和Ang2蛋白在血管异常(血管瘤和血管畸形)中的表达。方法收集新疆医科大学附属肿瘤医院2005年至2012年血管畸形50例,皮肤增殖期血管瘤30例,正常组织20例,采用免疫组化SP法检测Tie2、Ang1和Ang2蛋白在血管异常中的表达。结果 Tie2在血管异常中的阳性表达率较高,而Ang1在血管异常中的阳性表达率较低,Tie2在血管瘤和血管畸形中的表达显著高于正常组织,Ang1在血管瘤和血管畸形中的表达显著低于正常组织,差异均具有统计学意义(均P<0.05);Tie2和Ang2在血管异常中的表达呈正相关关系(P<0.05)。结论Ang1蛋白表达降低可能破坏了血管的稳定性,有助于病变的发展,Tie2蛋白表达增高,其与Ang2结合对病变血管生成可能具有促进作用,Tie2、Ang1和Ang2表达失衡在血管异常的发病过程中可能起重要的调节作用。

黄芪丹参配伍提取物经VEGF、Ang1/Tie2通路对心肌梗死大鼠血管新生的病理影响

为观察黄芪、丹参配伍提取物对心肌梗死大鼠VEGF(vascular endothelial growth factor)、血管生成素Ang1及其受体酪氨酸激酶Tie2信号通路的表达影响,对心肌梗死大鼠模型复制成功后分为假手术对照组、模型组、黄芪、丹参配伍提取物低、中、高剂量组,分别予以对应药物灌胃4周。观察大鼠一般生活状态,并分别采用HE染色和免疫组织化学染色测试大鼠心肌组织病理形态结构和VEGF、Ang1、Tie2的蛋白表达。结果表明:模型组心肌结构紊乱伴有炎性侵润,VEGF、Ang1和Tie2蛋白表达较假手术对照组有所增加(P<0.05);低、中、高剂量组的这些表达随着药物浓度梯度增加,心肌结构逐渐规整,内皮细胞完整、新生血管增多,与模型组比较差异显著(P<0.05或P<0.01)。可见黄芪、丹参配伍提取物可以上调心肌梗死大鼠VEGF、Ang1和Tie2的表达,促进血管新生。

菩人丹对T2DM胰腺微循环损伤大鼠Ang-1、Ang-2/Tie-2的影响

目的观察菩人丹(PuRenDan,PRD)对2型糖尿病(Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus,T2DM)胰腺微循环损伤大鼠胰腺组织中血管生成素-1、2(Angiopoietin-1,-2,Ang-1,-2)及可溶性酪氨酸激酶受体-2(Tyrosine Kinase Receptors-2,TIE-2)的影响,探讨PRD改善胰腺微循环,修复胰岛微血管损伤的分子机制。方法采用脂肪乳结合小剂量链脲佐菌素(streptozotocin,STZ)尾静脉快速推注的方法建立T2DM微循环损伤大鼠模型。成模大鼠随机分为T2DM模型组、菩人丹组(1.77 g.kg-1)和降糖通脉片组(0.42 g.kg-1),另随机选取10只正常大鼠作为正常对照组。各组动物每日灌胃给药1次,正常对照组和T2DM模型组给予等剂量蒸馏水,连续给药4周后,提取各组大鼠胰腺组织总蛋白,采用Westernblot法测定各组大鼠胰腺组织中Ang-1、Ang-2的蛋白质表达,及TIE-2蛋白磷酸化水平。结果与正常对照组比较,T2DM胰腺微循环损伤大鼠胰腺组织Ang-1蛋白质表达水平和TIE2磷酸化水平明显降低(P<0.01),而Ang-2蛋白质表达水平显著增高(P<0.01);菩人丹治疗后,Ang-1蛋白质表达水平和TIE2磷酸化水平均显著上调(P<0.01),而Ang-2蛋白质表达被抑制(P<0.01),其作用与阳性对照药降糖通脉片相当。结论菩人丹通过调控Ang-1、Ang-2/TIE-2蛋白表达及磷酸化,促进糖尿病状态下胰腺组织微血管生成,进而改善胰腺微循环,发挥其对胰岛β细胞损伤的修复作用。

An exploration on the protective mechanism of Xuduan Zhongzi prescription against epididymis oxidative damage in oligoasthenospermia model rats based on Nrf2-NQO1/γ-GCS signaling pathway

Objective:To investigate the protective mechanism of Xuduan Zhongzi prescription against epididymal oxidative damage in oligoasthenospermia model rats.Methods:Forty SD rats were randomly divided into blank group,model group,Xuduan Zhongzi prescription group(10g/kg)and L-carnitine group(0.1g/kg).Except blank group,all induced oligoasmospermia.The blank group and model group were given normal saline intragastric administration,the Xuduan Zhongzi prescription group was given Xuduan Zhongzi prescription solution intragastric administration,and the L-carnitine group was given L-carnitine intragastric administration.HE staining was used to observe the epididymis structure after 8 weeks.The concentration and activity rate of epididymis sperm were measured by sperm quality.MRNA and protein expression levels of Nrf2,NQO1 andγ-GCs in epididymis were detected by RT-qPCR and immunohistochemistry.Results:①HE staining:in the blank group,the epididymis tubes were arranged tightly and regularly,the tissue structure was complete,the epithelial cells were arranged orderly,and the lumen sperm were numerous and evenly distributed.The epididymis of model group showed structural atrophy,loose arrangement,enlarged mesenchyme,increased cell debris and significantly reduced sperm cells.Compared with the model group,the lumen lesions of epididymis in Xuduan Zhongzi prescription group and L-carnitine group were significantly improved,and the amount of normal sperm in lumen was increased and the distribution was uniform.②Results of sperm quality comparison among each group:sperm density and sperm motility rate:compared with blank group,sperm density and sperm motility rate in other groups were significantly decreased(P<0.05),and sperm density and sperm motility rate in model group were significantly decreased(P<0.05);Compared with model group,the sperm density and motility rate in Xuduan Zhongzi prescription group and L-carnitine group were significantly increased(P<0.05).③RT-qPCR and immunohistochemistry:Compared with the blank group,the mRNA and protein levels of Nrf2,NQO1 andγ-GCs in epididymal rats in model group were significantly decreased(P<0.05),while the mRNA and protein levels of Nrf2,NQO1 andγ-GCs were significantly increased in L-carnitine group and Continua seed formula group(P<0.05).Conclusion:Xuduan Zhongzi prescription can reduce oxidative stress damage and improve sperm quality of oligoasthenospermia.The mechanism may related to promoting the activation of Nrf2-NQO1/γ-GCS pathway in epididymis of oligoasthenospermia rats,and up-regulate the expressions of Nrf2,NQO1 andγ-GCS proteins.

大肠癌组织中Ang-1、Ang-2及受体Tie-2的表达及意义

目的:旨在研究促血管生成素-1(Ang-1)、促血管生成素-2(Ang-2)和促血管生成素受体(Tie-2)在大肠癌中的表达,分析Ang-1、Ang-2和Tie-2的表达与大肠癌的组织学分化程度的关系,探讨三者在大肠癌进展中的作用,为大肠癌的临床治疗提供新的靶点。方法:应用免疫组化SP法检测64例大肠癌组织中的Ang-1、Ang-2和Tie-2的表达;RT-PCR检测Ang-1、Ang-2和Tie-2mRNA在大肠癌组织中的的表达。结果:Ang-1、Ang-2与Tie-2在癌组织高、中、低分化程度上的表达呈现为肿瘤的分化程度越低,蛋白与RNA表达越明显(P<0.05)。结论:Ang-1、Ang-2及Tie-2的表达程度与大肠癌的进展呈正相关。

Mechanism of hesperidin improving myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury in type 2 diabetic rats through SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway

Objective:To observe the protective effect of hesperidin on myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury in type 2 diabetes mellitus and its effect on SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway.Methods:50 Sprague-Dawley(SD)rats were randomly assigned to the normal control group(NC),model group,ischemia-reperfusion group(IR),hesperidin group,SIRT1 inhibitor group and hesperidin plus SIRT1 inhibitor group.In addition to NC,the rats in the remaining groups were replicated by intraperitoneal of high-fat diet combined with injection of streptozotocin for type 2 diabetic rats.After then,the myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury(MIRI)rat model was established by LAd for 30 minutes with 2 hours reperfusion.He staining was used to observe the pathological changes of myocardial tissue,and the levels of serum LDH,CK-MB and SOD,GSH and MDA in myocardial tissue were detected by kit methods,and the expression abundance of related proteins in 4-HNE and SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 signal pathway were detected by immunohistochemistry and Western blot;Results:Hesperidin could significantly inhibit cardiomyocyte necrosis and inflammatory cell infiltration,reduce LDH activity,CK-MB and MDA level,and increase SOD activity,GSH and 4-HNE level,the differences were statistically significant when compared with IR group(P<0.01).In addition,compared with the ischemia-reperfusion group,the expressions of SIRT1,Nrf2 and HO-1 proteins in hesperidin group were significantly up-regulated,the differences were statistically significant(P<0.01);Conclusion:Hesperidin inhibits oxidative stress by activating SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway,and play a protective effect of myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury in diabetic rats.

Yiqi Yangyin and Huatan Quyu granule can improve skeletal muscle energy metabolism in a type 2 diabetic rat model by promoting the AMPK/SIRT/PGC-1α signalling pathway

Objective:To investigate how Yiqi Yangyin and Huatan Quyu granule (YYHO) improves skeletal muscle insulin resistance in a type 2 diabetic rat model and to discover whether the molecular mechanism is related to the promotion of the AMPK/SIRT/PGC-1α signalling pathway.Methods:Rats were randomly divided into 4 groups:the normal group,the model group,the YYHQ granule group,and the pioglitazone group.The type 2 diabetic rat model was established by feeding a high-fat diet for 5 weeks along with a single intraperitoneal injection of 30 mg/kg streptozotocin (STZ).After modelling successfully,the appropriate drug was intragastrically administered to diabetic rats for 2 weeks,once per day.The YYHQ granule group was given a dose of 4.8 g/kg body weight per day,the pioglitazone group was given a dose of 1.35 mg/kg body weight per day.The doses for both groups were equivalent to the clinical equivalent dose based on a previous study.Other groups were gavaged with the same amount of saline water.Body weight,food intake,water intake,urine volume and grip strength were recorded weekly.The fasting blood glucose(FBG) was determined weekly using blood glucose test strips.The related glucose and lipid metabolism indexes,e.g.,fasting insulin (Fins),glycated haemoglobin (GHb),HOMA-IR,ISI,triglycerides (TG),total cholesterol (TC),high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C),low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and free fatty acid (FFA),were determined using biochemical method.The mRNA expression levels of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK),peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator-1 alpha (PGC-1α),carnitine palmitoyl transterase-1 (CPT-1),Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1),and Sirtuin 3 (SIRT3) were assessed using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR).The protein expression levels of creatine kinase (CK),Ca2+ ATPase,α-Actin,AMPK,PGC-1α and CPT-1 were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method (ELISA).Results:Body weight decreased significantly (P <.01),food intake,water intake and urine volume increased significantly (P <.01),and grip strength decreased significantly (P <.01) in the model group compared with the normal group.The levels of FBG,Fins,GHb and HOMA-IR increased significantly (P <.01),and the ISI decreased significantly (P <.01) in the model group.The levels of TG,TC,LDL-C and FFA increased significantly (P <.05 or P <.01),and the level of HDL-C decreased significantly (P <.05) in the model group.These changes were reversed after treatment with YYHQ granule or pioglitazone.Compared with the model group,the YYHQ granule and pioglitazone groups significantly improve body weight,water intake and urine volume (P <.05 or P <.01),however,both treatments had no significant effect on food intake (P >.05).The levels of FBG,Fins,GHb,HOMA-IR and ISI were improved significantly (P <.01) and the levels of TG,TC and LDL-C were improved significantly (P <.05 or P <.01),however,both treatments had no significant effect on the levels of HDL-C and FFA (P >.05).Further results indicated that YYHQ granule significantly decreased the mRNA expression of AMPK,PGC-1α,CPT-1,SIRT1 and SIRT3 in skeletal muscle (P <.01) and the pioglitazone group showed similar effects;moreover,the protein expression levels of CK,Ca2+ATPase,α-Actin,AMPK,PGC-1α and CPT-1 in skeletal muscle significantly decreased (P <.01),however,pioglitazone had no significant effect on CK and α-Actin (P >.05).Conclusion:The possible molecular mechanism of YYHQ granule improving skeletal muscle insulin resistance in a type 2 diabetic rat model may be related to the stimulation of energy metabolism in skeletal muscle via the AMPK/SIRT/PGC-1α signalling pathway.

Effects of nuciferine on Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway in adipose tissue of obesity model rats

Objective:This study aimed to explore the therapeutic effect of nuciferine on high-fat diet-induced obesity in rats and the influence of nuciferine on nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2(Nrf2)/heme oxygenase-1(HO-1)signaling pathway in the adipose tissue.Methods:A total of 40 male Sprague Dawley(SD)rats were evenly divided into the normal,model,positive control,and nuciferine groups,using the random number table method.Except for the normal group,rats in the other groups were fed with high-fat diet for 12 weeks to establish the obesity model.During the model establishment,rats in the positive control group received atorvastatin calcium 2 mg/kg,rats in the nuciferine group received nuciferine 20 mg/kg,and rats in the normal and model groups received normal saline 2 mL,daily through intragastric administration for 12 consecutive weeks.After model establishment and administration,the body weight,Lee’s index,and blood lipids of rats in each group were measured,and hematoxylin and eosin(HE)staining was performed on the liver and adipose tissues to evaluate the therapeutic effect of nuciferine on obesity rat model.Additionally,the levels of superoxide dismutase(SOD),malondialdehyde(MDA),and glutathione peroxidase(GSH-Px)in the serum of rats in each group were determined,and the gene expressions of Nrf2 and HO-1 in the adipose tissue of rats in each group were detected through quantitative polymerase chain reaction(qPCR)to investigate the mechanism of action of nuciferine in the treatment of obesity.Results:After 12 weeks of model establishment and administration,we observed that compared with the model group,nuciferine could significantly reduce the body weight,Lee’s index,and serum triglyceride(TG),total cholesterol(TC),and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-C)levels and increase the serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol(HDL-C)level in obesity rat model(P<0.05 or P<0.01).HE staining revealed that nuciferine could significantly alleviate liver steatosis in obesity rat model and improve the cell morphology in epididymal adipose tissue.Moreover,nuciferine could elevate serum SOD and GSH-Px activities in obesity rat model and lower the serum MDA level(P<0.05 or P<0.01).The qPCR indicated that nuciferine could upregulate the gene expression of Nrf2 and HO-1 in the adipose tissue of obesity rat model(P<0.05 or P<0.01).

CO中毒小鼠脑内血管内皮系统Ang-1、Ang-2和Tie-2表达的动态研究

[目的]观察CO中毒小鼠脑海马区血管内皮系统Ang-1、Ang-2和Tie-2表达的变化规律,探讨CO中毒对小鼠脑血管内皮系统的影响。[方法]采用逆转录聚合酶链反应(RT-PCR)测定空气对照组和CO中毒组小鼠(各48只)在不同时间点脑海马区Ang-1、Ang-2及Tie-2的mRNA相对表达量。[结果]与对照组比较,CO中毒后脑血管内皮系统Ang-1、Ang-1和Tie-2 mRNA表达均呈双峰性增高,双峰分别在CO中毒后3 d(7.02±0.11、7.67±0.22和8.73±0.07,P<0.05)和7 d(6.60±0.367、.99±0.06和7.69±0.05,P<0.05)。CO组的Ang-2/Ang-1比值在6 h达到第一高峰(1.55±0.07,与对照组比较P<0.05)2,d到达低谷,随后比值缓慢上升于第7天达到第二个高峰(1.24±0.10,与对照组比较P<0.05),14 d恢复正常。[结论]CO中毒后,小鼠脑内血管内皮Ang/Tie-2系统mRNA水平表达呈双峰性增高,第二个高峰可能与迟发性脑病相关。

软组织及椎体血管异常Tie2、Ang1、Ang2蛋白及mRNA的表达及临床意义

目的探讨Tie2、Ang1、Ang2蛋白及mRNA在软组织及椎体血管异常(血管瘤和血管畸形)中的表达及其意义。方法收集血管异常110例,运用RT-PCR和免疫组化SP法检测Tie2、Ang1和Ang2在血管瘤及血管畸形中表达的差异,并进一步了解Tie2基因突变是否影响三者mRNA的表达。结果 Tie2、Ang1和Ang2 mRNA在血管瘤中的表达显著高于血管畸形(P<0.01);在血管瘤、软组织及椎体血管畸形中Ang2蛋白和mRNA的表达显著高于Ang1(P<0.05);突变型Tie2 mRNA的表达水平显著高于野生型(P<0.05),但伴Tie2基因突变的血管畸形Ang1和Ang2 mRNA的表达低于野生型血管畸形(P<0.05)。结论血管瘤和血管畸形可能为基因学改变不同的两种病变;Tie2基因突变、Ang1和Ang2的表达失衡可能促进血管异常病变进展。

The molecular mechanism underlying angiogenesis in hepatocellular carcinoma: the imbalance activation of signaling pathways

OBJECTIVE: To explore the effect of two dominating signaling pathways, VEGF/KDR and angiopoietins/Tie2, on the formation of new blood vessel in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) growth and metastasis. METHODS: RT-PCR and Western blot were employed to evaluate the VEGF/KDR and angiopoietins/Tie2 expression in samples from 23 patients with HCC. Meanwhile, microvessel density (MVD) was determined as a marker of angiogenesis by counting CD34 positive cells with the method of immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: The two pathways were activated in all HCC samples. The expressions of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and angiopoietin-2 (Ang2) were significantly higher (P<0.05) in hepatocellular carcinoma tissues and the margin of the tumor than those in control groups, and so did CD34 positive cells. Although significant difference in the expression of kinase insert domain containing receptor (KDR) and Ang1/Tie2 was not observed in all groups, their distinct high levels were seen in hepatoma and its margin compared with normal and cirrhotic liver. VEGF and Ang2 expressions were seen up-regulated in HCC with vascular invasion and satellite lesion. CONCLUSIONS: The two signaling pathways, VEGF/KDR and angiopoietins/Tie2 are activated in the process of angiogenesis in HCC and modulate the formation of new blood vessels. The imparity of the two signaling pathways' activation is to benefit HCC metastasis. In the two pathways, VEGF and Ang2 may play an important role in the process of angiogenesis, and are necessary indicators for the prognosis and metastasis of HCC. This study provides another clue for the exploration of anti-angiogenic agents.

Rosmarinic acid elicits neuroprotection in ischemic stroke via Nrf2 and heme oxygenase 1 signaling

Rosmarinic acid（RA） can elicit a neuroprotective effect against ischemic stroke, but the precise molecular mechanism remains poorly understood. In this study, an experimental ischemic stroke model was established in CD-1 mice（Beijing Vital River Laboratory Animal Technology, Beijing, China） by occluding the right middle cerebral artery for 1 hour and allowing reperfusion for 24 hours. After intraperitoneally injecting model mice with 10, 20, or 40 mg/kg RA, functional neurological deficits were evaluated using modified Longa scores. Subsequently, cerebral infarct volume was measured using TTC staining and ischemic brain tissue was examined for cell apoptosis with TUNEL staining. Superoxide dismutase activity and malondialdehyde levels were measured by spectrophometry. Expression of heme oxygenase-1（HO-1）, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2（Nrf2）, Bcl-2, Bax, Akt, and phospho-Ser473 Akt proteins in ischemic brain tissue was detected by western blot, while mRNA levels of Nrf2, HO-1, Bcl-2, and Bax were analyzed using real time quantitative PCR. In addition, HO-1 enzyme activity was measured spectrophotometrically. RA（20 and 40 mg/kg） greatly improved neurological function, reduced infarct volume, decreased cell apoptosis, upregulated Bcl-2 protein and mRNA expression, downregulated Bax protein and mRNA expression, increased HO-1 and Nrf2 protein and mRNA expression, increased superoxide dismutase activity, and decreased malondialdehyde levels in ischemic brain tissue of model mice. However, intraperitoneal injection of a HO-1 inhibitor（10 mg/kg zinc protoporphyrin IX） reversed the neuroprotective effects of RA on HO-1 enzyme activity and Bcl-2 and Bax protein expression. The PI3 K/Akt signaling pathway inhibitor LY294002（10 mM） inhibited Akt phosphorylation, as well as Nrf2 and HO-1 expression. Our findings suggest that RA has anti-oxidative and anti-apoptotic properties that protect against ischemic stroke by a mechanism involving upregulation of Nrf2 and HO-1 expression via the PI3 K/Akt signaling pathway.