BACKGROUND The low survival rate of mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs)caused by anoikis,a form of apoptosis,limits the therapeutic efficacy of MSCs.As a proapoptotic molecule,mammalian Ste20-like kinase 1(Mst1)can increase ...BACKGROUND The low survival rate of mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs)caused by anoikis,a form of apoptosis,limits the therapeutic efficacy of MSCs.As a proapoptotic molecule,mammalian Ste20-like kinase 1(Mst1)can increase the production of reactive oxygen species(ROS),thereby promoting anoikis.Recently,we found that Mst1 inhibition could protect mouse bone marrow MSCs(mBMSCs)from H 2 O 2-induced cell apoptosis by inducing autophagy and reducing ROS production.However,the influence of Mst1 inhibition on anoikis in mBMSCs remains unclear.AIM To investigate the mechanisms by which Mst1 inhibition acts on anoikis in isolated mBMSCs.METHODS Poly-2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate-induced anoikis was used following the silencing of Mst1 expression by short hairpin RNA(shRNA)adenovirus transfection.Integrin(ITGs)were tested by flow cytometry.Autophagy and ITGα5β1 were inhibited using 3-methyladenine and small interfering RNA,respe-ctively.The alterations in anoikis were measured by Terminal-deoxynucleoitidyl Transferase Mediated Nick End Labeling and anoikis assays.The levels of the anoikis-related proteins ITGα5,ITGβ1,and phospho-focal adhesion kinase and the activation of caspase 3 and the autophagy-related proteins microtubules associated protein 1 light chain 3 II/I,Beclin1 and p62 were detected by Western blotting.RESULTS In isolated mBMSCs,Mst1 expression was upregulated,and Mst1 inhibition significantly reduced cell apoptosis,induced autophagy and decreased ROS levels.Mechanistically,we found that Mst1 inhibition could upregulate ITGα5 and ITGβ1 expression but not ITGα4,ITGαv,or ITGβ3 expression.Moreover,autophagy induced by upregulated ITGα5β1 expression following Mst1 inhibition played an essential role in the protective efficacy of Mst1 inhibition in averting anoikis.CONCLUSION Mst1 inhibition ameliorated autophagy formation,increased ITGα5β1 expression,and decreased the excessive production of ROS,thereby reducing cell apoptosis in isolated mBMSCs.Based on these results,Mst1 inhibition may provide a promising strategy to overcome anoikis of implanted MSCs.展开更多
AIM: To characterize high-mobility group protein 1-toll-like receptor 4(HMGB1-TLR4) and downstream signaling pathways in intestinal ischemia/reperfusion(I/R) injury.METHODS: Forty specific-pathogen-free male C57BL/6 m...AIM: To characterize high-mobility group protein 1-toll-like receptor 4(HMGB1-TLR4) and downstream signaling pathways in intestinal ischemia/reperfusion(I/R) injury.METHODS: Forty specific-pathogen-free male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into five groups(n = 8 per group): sham, control, anti-HMGB1, anti-myeloid differentiation gene 88(My D88), and anti-translocatingchain-associating membrane protein(TRIF) antibody groups. Vehicle with the control Ig G antibody, antiHMGB1, anti-My D88, or anti-TRIF antibodies(all 1 mg/kg, 0.025%) were injected via the caudal vein 30 min prior to ischemia. After anesthetization, the abdominal wall was opened and the superior mesenteric artery was exposed, followed by 60 min mesenteric ischemia and then 60 min reperfusion. For the sham group, the abdominal wall was opened for 120 min without I/R. Levels of serum nuclear factor(NF)-κB p65, interleukin(IL)-6, and tumor necrosis factor(TNF)-α were measured, along with myeloperoxidase activity in the lung and liver. Inaddition,morphologic changes that occurred in the lung and intestinal tissues were evaluated. Levels of m RNA transcripts encoding HMGB1 and NF-κB were measured by real-time quantitative PCR, and levels of HMGB1 and NF-κB protein were measured by Western blot. Results were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance.RESULTS: Blocking HMGB 1, MyD 8 8, and TRIF expression by injecting anti-HMGB1, anti-My D88, or anti-TRIF antibodies prior to ischemia reduced the levels of inflammatory cytokines in serum; NF-κB p65: 104.64 ± 11.89, 228.53 ± 24.85, 145.00 ± 33.63, 191.12 ± 13.22, and 183.73 ± 10.81(P < 0.05); IL-6: 50.02 ± 6.33, 104.91 ± 31.18, 62.28 ± 6.73, 85.90 ± 17.37, and 78.14 ± 7.38(P < 0.05); TNF-α, 43.79 ± 4.18, 70.81 ± 6.97, 52.76 ± 5.71, 63.19 ± 5.47, and 59.70 ± 4.63(P < 0.05) for the sham, control, anti-HMGB1, anti-My D88, and anti-TRIF groups, respectively(all in pg/m L).Antibodies also alleviated tissue injury in the lung and small intestine compared with the control group in the mouse intestinal I/R model. The administration of antiHMGB1, anti-My D88, and anti-TRIF antibodies markedly reduced damage caused by I/R, for which anti-HMGB1 antibody had the most obvious effect.CONCLUSION: HMGB1 and its downstream signaling pathway play important roles in the mouse intestinal I/R injury, and the effect of the TRIF-dependent pathway is slightly greater.展开更多
Purpose:To characterizes the progression of glaucoma in DBA/2J mice by measuring intraocular pressure(IOP) and retinal ganglion cells(RGCs) numbers in mice of various ages. Methods:A quantitative assessment of the pat...Purpose:To characterizes the progression of glaucoma in DBA/2J mice by measuring intraocular pressure(IOP) and retinal ganglion cells(RGCs) numbers in mice of various ages. Methods:A quantitative assessment of the pathophysiology of the DBA/2J mice was performed and the C57/BL6 mice was used as control. The IOP was measured by the servo-null micropipette system; the regional patterns of the loss of RGCs were determined by cell count of retrogradely-labeled RGCs. Results:The baseline IOP for DBA/2J mice at 7 weeks was (16.6 ± 1.2)mm Hg.Then IOP increased extend to 12 months, with the peak of (25.2 ± 1.2)mm Hg at 6 months of age. Retinal ganglion cell numbers did not decrease relative to control until 12 months of age(P=0.006), when the loss was proportionally higher in peripheral regions(P<0.05). Conclusion:The elevation in IOP precedes the loss of RGCs by several months. RGCs cell loss occurs particularly in peripheral regions of the retina. These findings expand our understanding of the changes in DBA/2J mice and provide information for experiments design when they are used as a glaucoma model for future studies of RGCs degeneration in glaucoma.展开更多
Objective： Recent studies have shown that the local expression of soluble interleukin （IL） -1 receptor type Ⅱ （slL-1 R Ⅱ ） in endometrial tissue of women with endometriosis is decreased, and the depression of I...Objective： Recent studies have shown that the local expression of soluble interleukin （IL） -1 receptor type Ⅱ （slL-1 R Ⅱ ） in endometrial tissue of women with endometriosis is decreased, and the depression of IL-1 R Ⅱ was more significant in infertile women than that in fertile women with endometriosis. In this research, we investigated the remedial effect of slL-1-R Ⅱ administration on endometriosis in the nude mouse model. Methods： Nineteen nude model mice with endometriosis were randomly divided into three groups： group A was treated by intraperitoneal administration with only slL-1 R Ⅱ for two weeks, group B was similarly treated with only IL- 1, and group C （control） was administered saline. After 2 weeks, the size of the ectopic endometrial lesions was calculated, and the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor （VEGF） and B-cell lymphoma leukemia-2 （Bcl- 2） were detected by immunohistochemistry. The IL-8 and VEGF levels in the peritoneal fluid （PF） and serum were also measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay （ELISA）. Results： The mean size of ectopic endometrial lesion did not differ between the three groups （P 〉 0.05）. Compared with the control, the expression of VEGF and Bcl-2 was significantly lower in group A, and higher in group B. In the three groups, the levels of IL-8 in the PF and serum were highest in group A, and lowest in group B. Conclusion： slL-1 R Ⅱ may suppresse hyperplasia of ectopic endometriosis, perhaps by reducing the expression of certain cytokines, such as VEGF, IL-8, and Bcl-2, which could provide a new clinical strategy for the treatment of endometriosis.展开更多
This study examined the expression and distribution of angiopoietin-1/-2 （Ang-1/-2） in the endometrium of early pregnant mice. The expression of Ang-1/-2 was detected by immunohistochemical staining and in situ hybr...This study examined the expression and distribution of angiopoietin-1/-2 （Ang-1/-2） in the endometrium of early pregnant mice. The expression of Ang-1/-2 was detected by immunohistochemical staining and in situ hybridization respectively. Computerized image analysis system was used to measure the average optical intensity of Ang-1/-2 in endometria at different time points after gestation. Mice were randomly divided into 5 groups： control group, D2 group （2 days after pregnancy）, D4 group （4 days after pregnancy）, D6 group （6 days after pregnancy） and D8 group （8 days after pregnancy）, each containing 15 mice. The results showed that the expression of Ang-1 and Ang-2 was very different among 4 groups （P〈0.01）. Immunohistochemical staining revealed that Ang-1 was localized in the cytoplasma of stromal cells 2 days after pregnancy （day 2）, and in luminal epithelial cells on day 4. The protein of Ang-2 was mainly expressed in the cytoplasma of glandular epithelia and stromal cells. With gestation time, the positive reactions of Ang-1/-2 were stronger in the endometria of the pregnant mice （P〈0.01）. In situ hybridization showed Ang-I mRNA in stromal cells on day 2. Hybridization signal was localized in both stromal cells and vessel epithelial cells on day 4; Ang-2 mRNA was expressed in stromal cells and glandular epithelia on day 2; high mRNA levels appeared in stromal cells, glandular epithelia and vascular endothelia on day 4; an increasing in mRNA expression of Ang-1/-2 was observed on day 6 and day 8 （P〈0.01）. It is suggested that Ang-1/-2 may play an important role in the cross-talk between blastocyst and maternal endometrium during the process of embryo implantation.展开更多
The purpose of the present study was to compare the effects of different doses of ultraviolet radiation A1 （UVA1） on human fibroblast proliferation and collagen level in a mouse model of scleroderma, so as to identi...The purpose of the present study was to compare the effects of different doses of ultraviolet radiation A1 （UVA1） on human fibroblast proliferation and collagen level in a mouse model of scleroderma, so as to identify appropriate irradiation doses for clinical treatment of scleroderma. Monolayer from human fibroblasts was cultured in vitro, and a mouse model of scleroderma was established by subcutaneous injection of 100 μL of 400 μg/mL bleomycin into the back of BALB/c mice for 4 weeks. The mouse models and human fibroblasts were divided into UVA1- exposed （100, 60 and 20 J/cm2） and UVA-unexposed groups. At 0, 24 and 48 h after exposure, cell proliferation and levels of hydroxyproline and collagen were detected. UVA1 irradiation was performed 3 times weekly for 10 weeks, and the pathological changes of skin tissues, skin thickness and collagen level were observed after phototherapy. Cell proliferation and the levels of hydroxyproline and collagen were inhibited after phototherapy, and there was a significant difference between the UVAl-exposed cells and UVAl-unexposed cells （P 〈 0.001）. In addition, UVA1 phototherapy improved dermal sclerosis and softened the skin, and there were significant differences between the high-dose UVA1 group and the model group, and the negative group （P 〈 0.05）. It is concluded that UVA1 radiation can reduce cell proliferation, and decrease hydroxyproline and collagen levels in a dose-dependent manner in vitro. High-dose UVA1 phototherapy has marked therapeutic effect on scleroderma in the mouse model. Decreased collagen level may be related to the reduced number and activity of cells, as well as inhibition of collagen synthesis.展开更多
To investigate the effects of TGF-β1 on the two gelatinases （MMP-2 and MMP-9）, and their roles in lung remodeling after irradiation-induced lung injury. Expressions of TGF-β1 were measured with western blot, and e...To investigate the effects of TGF-β1 on the two gelatinases （MMP-2 and MMP-9）, and their roles in lung remodeling after irradiation-induced lung injury. Expressions of TGF-β1 were measured with western blot, and expressions of MMP-2 and MMP-9 were analyzed with zymography in a TGF-β1 transgenic mouse model after thoracic irradiation with 12 Gy. We found expressions of TGF-β1 in the lung from the transgenic mice were three folds as compared to those from control mice. With densitometrical analysis, we found a significant decrease in MMP-9 activity in lung homogenates from the transgenic mice as compared with those from non-transgenic control mice 8 weeks after sham-irradiation （relative MMP-9 activity： C： 1. 000±0. 1091; TG： 0. 4772±0. 470 （n=8, P〈0.05）. But MMP-2 was constitutively expressed in the lung homogenates from the transgenic mice as compared to those from control mice 8 weeks after sham-irradiation （relative MMP-2 activity 8 weeks after sham-irradiation： C： 1. 000±0. 1556, TG： 1. 0075±0. 1472）. Eight weeks after thoracic irradiation with 12 Gy, we observed a significant increase of MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity in lung homogenates from both transgenic and normal mice. In TGF-β1 transgenic mice relative MMP-9 activity was increased to 1. 5321±0. 2217 folds 8 weeks after thoracic irradiation with 12 Gy as compared to those after sham-irradiation （1. 000±0. 2153）, and relative MMP-2 activity was increased to 1. 7142 ± 0. 4231 folds. Our results show that TGF-β1 itself down-regulates activity of MMP-9, thereby decreases ECM degradation in lungs of TGF-β1 transgenic mice. Also we find that ionizing irradiation upregulates both MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity. Over-expressions of MMP-9 and MMP-2 after lung irradiation are involved in the inflammatory response associated with radiation-induced lung injury, and maybe further in radiation-induced lung fibrosis.展开更多
Aim： To investigate the expression of Spindlin 1 （Spin First, reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction present in mouse testis. Then the expression patterns 1） isoform2 and assess its function in mouse testi...Aim： To investigate the expression of Spindlin 1 （Spin First, reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction present in mouse testis. Then the expression patterns 1） isoform2 and assess its function in mouse testis. Methods： （RT-PCR） was used to determine whether Spinl isoform2 is of the isoform between newborn and adult mice testes were compared by immunoblot analysis. Finally, the diversity of its localization in mice testes at different ages （days 0, 7, 14, 21, 28 and 60） was observed by immunohistochemistry. The localization of the protein in mouse sperm was also investigated by immunofluorescence. Results： The RT-PCR results show that Spinl isoform2 is present in mouse testis. As shown by immunoblot analysis, the isoform was more highly expressed in adult testes compared with newborn testes. Interestingly, Spinl isoform2 did not show up in the cytoplasm of primary spermatocytes until day 14. Also, the protein exists at the tail of the mouse sperm. Conclusion： Spinl isoform2 is a protein expressed highly in adult testis, which might be involved in spermatogenesis and could be necessary for normal sperm motility.展开更多
Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreve rsible blindness wo rldwide,and previous studies have shown that,in addition to affecting the eyes,it also causes abnormalities in the brain.However,it is not yet clear how the pr...Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreve rsible blindness wo rldwide,and previous studies have shown that,in addition to affecting the eyes,it also causes abnormalities in the brain.However,it is not yet clear how the primary visual cortex(V1)is altered in glaucoma.This study used DBA/2J mice as a model for spontaneous secondary glaucoma.The aim of the study was to compare the electrophysiological and histomorphological chara cteristics of neurons in the V1between 9-month-old DBA/2J mice and age-matched C57BL/6J mice.We conducted single-unit recordings in the V1 of light-anesthetized mice to measure the visually induced responses,including single-unit spiking and gamma band oscillations.The morphology of layerⅡ/Ⅲneurons was determined by neuronal nuclear antigen staining and Nissl staining of brain tissue sections.Eighty-seven neurons from eight DBA/2J mice and eighty-one neurons from eight C57BL/6J mice were examined.Compared with the C57BL/6J group,V1 neurons in the DBA/2J group exhibited weaker visual tuning and impaired spatial summation.Moreove r,fewer neuro ns were observed in the V1 of DBA/2J mice compared with C57BL/6J mice.These findings suggest that DBA/2J mice have fewer neurons in the VI compared with C57BL/6J mice,and that these neurons have impaired visual tuning.Our findings provide a better understanding of the pathological changes that occur in V1 neuron function and morphology in the DBA/2J mouse model.This study might offer some innovative perspectives regarding the treatment of glaucoma.展开更多
To investigate the expression of Prominin-1(Prom-1)in mouse uterus during peri-implantation.In situ hybridization and immunohistochemical staining were used to detect the mRNA and protein expression level of Prom-1 in...To investigate the expression of Prominin-1(Prom-1)in mouse uterus during peri-implantation.In situ hybridization and immunohistochemical staining were used to detect the mRNA and protein expression level of Prom-1 in mice uterus in early pregnancy,pseudopregnancy,estrous cycle,treated with hormone,delayed implantation and activation models.The results showed that Prom-1 was gradually weakened in uterine luminal epithelium(LE)and glandular epithelium(GE)during days 1-4 of pregnancy.During days 5-8,Prom-1 was strongly expressed in GE,and signal of Prom-1 protein was detected in matrix and decidua around the embryo.Similar to pregnancy,Prom-1 was strongly expressed in LE and GE on the 1st day and weakly expressed on the 4th day of pseudopregnancy.In addition,Prom-1 was highly expressed in LE and GE on estrus.Expression of Prom-1 was observed in the LE and the GE of delayed-implantation uterus.In activated-implantation animal model,Prom-1 was strongly expressed in the GE.In the hormone-treated model,Prom-1 expression levels were higher in the uterus of the 17β-estradiol-treated group than those in the control group.These results indicated that Prom-1 might promote the proliferation of mouse endometrial epithelium and participate in the establishment of uterine receptivity.Meanwhile,the expression of Prom-1 was up-regulated by the 17β-estradiol,indicating that Prom-1 might involve in the process of decidua development regulated by uterine glands,and Prom-1 might play an important role in mice early pregnancy.展开更多
AIM: To investigate anti-hypersensitive effects of α2δ-1 ligands in non-inflammatory and inflammationassociated colonic hypersensitivity(CHS) mouse models.METHODS: To induce an inflammation-associated CHS, 1% dextra...AIM: To investigate anti-hypersensitive effects of α2δ-1 ligands in non-inflammatory and inflammationassociated colonic hypersensitivity(CHS) mouse models.METHODS: To induce an inflammation-associated CHS, 1% dextran sulfate sodium(DSS) was administered to C57Bl/6J male mice, in drinking water, for 14 d. Regarding the non-inflammatory neonatal maternal separation(NMS)-induced CHS model, wild-type C57BI/6J pups were isolated from their mother from day 2 to day 14(P2 to P14), three hours per day(from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.). Colorectal distension was performed by inflating distension probe from 20 μL to 100 μL by 20 μL increment step every 10 s. After a first colorectal distension(CRD), drugs were administered subcutaneously, in a cumulative manner,(Gabapentin at 30 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg; Pregabalin at 10 mg/kg and 30 mg/kg; Carbamazepine at 10 mg/kg and 30 mg/kg) and a second CRD was performed one hour after each injection.RESULTS: The visceromotor response(VMR) to CRD was increased by our NMS paradigm protocol in comparison to non-handled(NH) mice, considering the highest distension volumes(80 μL: 0.783 ± 0.056 mV /s vs 0.531 ± 0.034 m V/s, P < 0.05 and 100 μL: 1.087 ± 0.056 m V/s vs 0.634 ± 0.038 m V/s, P < 0.05 for NMS and NH mice, respectively). In the inflammationassociated CHS, DSS-treated mice showed a dramatic and significant increase in VMR at 60 and 80 μL distension volumes when compared to control mice(60 μL: 0.920 ± 0.079 m V/s vs 0.426 ± 0.100 m V/s P < 0.05 and 80 μL: 1.193 ± 0.097 mV /s vs 0.681 ± 0.094 mV /s P < 0.05 for DSS- and Water-treated mice, respectively). Carbamazepine failed to significantly reduce CHS in both models. Gabapentin significantly reduced CHS in the DSS-induced model for both subcutaneous injections at 30 or 100 mg/kg. Pregabalin s i g n i f i c a n t l y r e d u c e d V M R t o C R D i n t h e n o n-inflammatory NMS-induced CHS model for the acute subcutaneous administration of the highest cumulative dose(30 mg/kg) and significantly reduced CHS in lowdose DSS-treated mice in a dose-dependent manner. Finally, the percent decrease of AUC induced by acute GBP or Pregabalin treatment were higher in the inflammatory DSS-induced CHS model in comparison to the non-inflammatory NMS-induced CHS model.CONCLUSION: This preclinical study demonstrates α2δ-1 ligands efficacy on inflammation-associated CHS, highlighting their potential clinical interest in patients with chronic abdominal pain and moderate intestinal inflammation.展开更多
Background:Understanding the mechanisms of N utilization for lactation can lead to improved requirement estimates and increased efficiency,which modern dairy diets currently fail to maximize.The mechanistic target of ...Background:Understanding the mechanisms of N utilization for lactation can lead to improved requirement estimates and increased efficiency,which modern dairy diets currently fail to maximize.The mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1(mTORC1)is a central hub of translation regulation,processing extra-and intra-cellular signals of nutrient availability and physiological state,such as amino acids and energy.We hypothesized that dietary amino acids regulate lactation through mTORC1,such that inhibition of mTORC1 will lead to decreased lactation performance when amino acids are not limiting.Our objectives were to assess lactation performance in lactating mice undergoing dietary and pharmacologic interventions designed to alter mTORC1 activity.Methods:First lactation mice(N=18;n=6/treatment)were fed an adequate protein diet(18%crude protein),or an isocaloric protein-restricted diet(9%crude protein)from the day after parturition until lactation day 13.A third group of mice was fed an adequate protein diet and treated with the mTORC1 inhibitor rapamycin(4 mg/kg every other day)intraperitoneally,with the first two groups treated with vehicle as control.Dams and pups were weighed daily,and feed intake was recorded every other day.Milk production was measured every other day beginning on lactation day 4 by the weigh-suckle-weigh method.Tissues were collected after fasting and refeeding.Results:Milk production and pup weight were similarly decreased by both protein restriction and rapamycin treatment,with final production at 50%of control(P=0.008)and final pup weight at 85%of control(P<0.001).Mammary phosphorylation of mTORC1’s downstream targets were decreased by protein restriction and rapamycin treatment(P<0.05),while very little effect was observed in the liver of rapamycin treated mice,and none by protein restriction.Conclusions:Overall,sufficient supply of dietary amino acids was unable to maintain lactation performance status in mice with pharmacologically reduced mammary mTORC1 activity,as evidenced by diminished pup growth and milk production,supporting the concept that mTORC1 activation rather than substrate supply is the primary route by which amino acids regulate synthesis of milk components.展开更多
基金Supported by Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province,China,No.ZR2020MH014,No.ZR2021QH179 and No.ZR2021MH182.
文摘BACKGROUND The low survival rate of mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs)caused by anoikis,a form of apoptosis,limits the therapeutic efficacy of MSCs.As a proapoptotic molecule,mammalian Ste20-like kinase 1(Mst1)can increase the production of reactive oxygen species(ROS),thereby promoting anoikis.Recently,we found that Mst1 inhibition could protect mouse bone marrow MSCs(mBMSCs)from H 2 O 2-induced cell apoptosis by inducing autophagy and reducing ROS production.However,the influence of Mst1 inhibition on anoikis in mBMSCs remains unclear.AIM To investigate the mechanisms by which Mst1 inhibition acts on anoikis in isolated mBMSCs.METHODS Poly-2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate-induced anoikis was used following the silencing of Mst1 expression by short hairpin RNA(shRNA)adenovirus transfection.Integrin(ITGs)were tested by flow cytometry.Autophagy and ITGα5β1 were inhibited using 3-methyladenine and small interfering RNA,respe-ctively.The alterations in anoikis were measured by Terminal-deoxynucleoitidyl Transferase Mediated Nick End Labeling and anoikis assays.The levels of the anoikis-related proteins ITGα5,ITGβ1,and phospho-focal adhesion kinase and the activation of caspase 3 and the autophagy-related proteins microtubules associated protein 1 light chain 3 II/I,Beclin1 and p62 were detected by Western blotting.RESULTS In isolated mBMSCs,Mst1 expression was upregulated,and Mst1 inhibition significantly reduced cell apoptosis,induced autophagy and decreased ROS levels.Mechanistically,we found that Mst1 inhibition could upregulate ITGα5 and ITGβ1 expression but not ITGα4,ITGαv,or ITGβ3 expression.Moreover,autophagy induced by upregulated ITGα5β1 expression following Mst1 inhibition played an essential role in the protective efficacy of Mst1 inhibition in averting anoikis.CONCLUSION Mst1 inhibition ameliorated autophagy formation,increased ITGα5β1 expression,and decreased the excessive production of ROS,thereby reducing cell apoptosis in isolated mBMSCs.Based on these results,Mst1 inhibition may provide a promising strategy to overcome anoikis of implanted MSCs.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.30940069the Natural Sciences Foundation of Beijing,No.7102127
文摘AIM: To characterize high-mobility group protein 1-toll-like receptor 4(HMGB1-TLR4) and downstream signaling pathways in intestinal ischemia/reperfusion(I/R) injury.METHODS: Forty specific-pathogen-free male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into five groups(n = 8 per group): sham, control, anti-HMGB1, anti-myeloid differentiation gene 88(My D88), and anti-translocatingchain-associating membrane protein(TRIF) antibody groups. Vehicle with the control Ig G antibody, antiHMGB1, anti-My D88, or anti-TRIF antibodies(all 1 mg/kg, 0.025%) were injected via the caudal vein 30 min prior to ischemia. After anesthetization, the abdominal wall was opened and the superior mesenteric artery was exposed, followed by 60 min mesenteric ischemia and then 60 min reperfusion. For the sham group, the abdominal wall was opened for 120 min without I/R. Levels of serum nuclear factor(NF)-κB p65, interleukin(IL)-6, and tumor necrosis factor(TNF)-α were measured, along with myeloperoxidase activity in the lung and liver. Inaddition,morphologic changes that occurred in the lung and intestinal tissues were evaluated. Levels of m RNA transcripts encoding HMGB1 and NF-κB were measured by real-time quantitative PCR, and levels of HMGB1 and NF-κB protein were measured by Western blot. Results were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance.RESULTS: Blocking HMGB 1, MyD 8 8, and TRIF expression by injecting anti-HMGB1, anti-My D88, or anti-TRIF antibodies prior to ischemia reduced the levels of inflammatory cytokines in serum; NF-κB p65: 104.64 ± 11.89, 228.53 ± 24.85, 145.00 ± 33.63, 191.12 ± 13.22, and 183.73 ± 10.81(P < 0.05); IL-6: 50.02 ± 6.33, 104.91 ± 31.18, 62.28 ± 6.73, 85.90 ± 17.37, and 78.14 ± 7.38(P < 0.05); TNF-α, 43.79 ± 4.18, 70.81 ± 6.97, 52.76 ± 5.71, 63.19 ± 5.47, and 59.70 ± 4.63(P < 0.05) for the sham, control, anti-HMGB1, anti-My D88, and anti-TRIF groups, respectively(all in pg/m L).Antibodies also alleviated tissue injury in the lung and small intestine compared with the control group in the mouse intestinal I/R model. The administration of antiHMGB1, anti-My D88, and anti-TRIF antibodies markedly reduced damage caused by I/R, for which anti-HMGB1 antibody had the most obvious effect.CONCLUSION: HMGB1 and its downstream signaling pathway play important roles in the mouse intestinal I/R injury, and the effect of the TRIF-dependent pathway is slightly greater.
基金This work was supported by Guangdong Scientific researchfund (NO. 2006J1-C0051)
文摘Purpose:To characterizes the progression of glaucoma in DBA/2J mice by measuring intraocular pressure(IOP) and retinal ganglion cells(RGCs) numbers in mice of various ages. Methods:A quantitative assessment of the pathophysiology of the DBA/2J mice was performed and the C57/BL6 mice was used as control. The IOP was measured by the servo-null micropipette system; the regional patterns of the loss of RGCs were determined by cell count of retrogradely-labeled RGCs. Results:The baseline IOP for DBA/2J mice at 7 weeks was (16.6 ± 1.2)mm Hg.Then IOP increased extend to 12 months, with the peak of (25.2 ± 1.2)mm Hg at 6 months of age. Retinal ganglion cell numbers did not decrease relative to control until 12 months of age(P=0.006), when the loss was proportionally higher in peripheral regions(P<0.05). Conclusion:The elevation in IOP precedes the loss of RGCs by several months. RGCs cell loss occurs particularly in peripheral regions of the retina. These findings expand our understanding of the changes in DBA/2J mice and provide information for experiments design when they are used as a glaucoma model for future studies of RGCs degeneration in glaucoma.
基金supported by funding from Innovative Research Team in Nanjing Medical University(IRT0631)the collaborating Grants(30611120524)
文摘Objective： Recent studies have shown that the local expression of soluble interleukin （IL） -1 receptor type Ⅱ （slL-1 R Ⅱ ） in endometrial tissue of women with endometriosis is decreased, and the depression of IL-1 R Ⅱ was more significant in infertile women than that in fertile women with endometriosis. In this research, we investigated the remedial effect of slL-1-R Ⅱ administration on endometriosis in the nude mouse model. Methods： Nineteen nude model mice with endometriosis were randomly divided into three groups： group A was treated by intraperitoneal administration with only slL-1 R Ⅱ for two weeks, group B was similarly treated with only IL- 1, and group C （control） was administered saline. After 2 weeks, the size of the ectopic endometrial lesions was calculated, and the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor （VEGF） and B-cell lymphoma leukemia-2 （Bcl- 2） were detected by immunohistochemistry. The IL-8 and VEGF levels in the peritoneal fluid （PF） and serum were also measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay （ELISA）. Results： The mean size of ectopic endometrial lesion did not differ between the three groups （P 〉 0.05）. Compared with the control, the expression of VEGF and Bcl-2 was significantly lower in group A, and higher in group B. In the three groups, the levels of IL-8 in the PF and serum were highest in group A, and lowest in group B. Conclusion： slL-1 R Ⅱ may suppresse hyperplasia of ectopic endometriosis, perhaps by reducing the expression of certain cytokines, such as VEGF, IL-8, and Bcl-2, which could provide a new clinical strategy for the treatment of endometriosis.
文摘This study examined the expression and distribution of angiopoietin-1/-2 （Ang-1/-2） in the endometrium of early pregnant mice. The expression of Ang-1/-2 was detected by immunohistochemical staining and in situ hybridization respectively. Computerized image analysis system was used to measure the average optical intensity of Ang-1/-2 in endometria at different time points after gestation. Mice were randomly divided into 5 groups： control group, D2 group （2 days after pregnancy）, D4 group （4 days after pregnancy）, D6 group （6 days after pregnancy） and D8 group （8 days after pregnancy）, each containing 15 mice. The results showed that the expression of Ang-1 and Ang-2 was very different among 4 groups （P〈0.01）. Immunohistochemical staining revealed that Ang-1 was localized in the cytoplasma of stromal cells 2 days after pregnancy （day 2）, and in luminal epithelial cells on day 4. The protein of Ang-2 was mainly expressed in the cytoplasma of glandular epithelia and stromal cells. With gestation time, the positive reactions of Ang-1/-2 were stronger in the endometria of the pregnant mice （P〈0.01）. In situ hybridization showed Ang-I mRNA in stromal cells on day 2. Hybridization signal was localized in both stromal cells and vessel epithelial cells on day 4; Ang-2 mRNA was expressed in stromal cells and glandular epithelia on day 2; high mRNA levels appeared in stromal cells, glandular epithelia and vascular endothelia on day 4; an increasing in mRNA expression of Ang-1/-2 was observed on day 6 and day 8 （P〈0.01）. It is suggested that Ang-1/-2 may play an important role in the cross-talk between blastocyst and maternal endometrium during the process of embryo implantation.
文摘The purpose of the present study was to compare the effects of different doses of ultraviolet radiation A1 （UVA1） on human fibroblast proliferation and collagen level in a mouse model of scleroderma, so as to identify appropriate irradiation doses for clinical treatment of scleroderma. Monolayer from human fibroblasts was cultured in vitro, and a mouse model of scleroderma was established by subcutaneous injection of 100 μL of 400 μg/mL bleomycin into the back of BALB/c mice for 4 weeks. The mouse models and human fibroblasts were divided into UVA1- exposed （100, 60 and 20 J/cm2） and UVA-unexposed groups. At 0, 24 and 48 h after exposure, cell proliferation and levels of hydroxyproline and collagen were detected. UVA1 irradiation was performed 3 times weekly for 10 weeks, and the pathological changes of skin tissues, skin thickness and collagen level were observed after phototherapy. Cell proliferation and the levels of hydroxyproline and collagen were inhibited after phototherapy, and there was a significant difference between the UVAl-exposed cells and UVAl-unexposed cells （P 〈 0.001）. In addition, UVA1 phototherapy improved dermal sclerosis and softened the skin, and there were significant differences between the high-dose UVA1 group and the model group, and the negative group （P 〈 0.05）. It is concluded that UVA1 radiation can reduce cell proliferation, and decrease hydroxyproline and collagen levels in a dose-dependent manner in vitro. High-dose UVA1 phototherapy has marked therapeutic effect on scleroderma in the mouse model. Decreased collagen level may be related to the reduced number and activity of cells, as well as inhibition of collagen synthesis.
基金This work was supported by the National Funds for Distinguished Young Scientists of China （No. 81325009） and National Nature Science Foundation of China （No. 81270168, No. 81227901）, （Feng Cao BWS12J037）, Innovation Team granted by Ministry of Education PRC （IRT1053）, National Basic Research Program of China （2012CB518101）. Shaanxi Province Program （2013K12-02-03, 2014KCT-20）. The authors declare no conflict of interest.
文摘To investigate the effects of TGF-β1 on the two gelatinases （MMP-2 and MMP-9）, and their roles in lung remodeling after irradiation-induced lung injury. Expressions of TGF-β1 were measured with western blot, and expressions of MMP-2 and MMP-9 were analyzed with zymography in a TGF-β1 transgenic mouse model after thoracic irradiation with 12 Gy. We found expressions of TGF-β1 in the lung from the transgenic mice were three folds as compared to those from control mice. With densitometrical analysis, we found a significant decrease in MMP-9 activity in lung homogenates from the transgenic mice as compared with those from non-transgenic control mice 8 weeks after sham-irradiation （relative MMP-9 activity： C： 1. 000±0. 1091; TG： 0. 4772±0. 470 （n=8, P〈0.05）. But MMP-2 was constitutively expressed in the lung homogenates from the transgenic mice as compared to those from control mice 8 weeks after sham-irradiation （relative MMP-2 activity 8 weeks after sham-irradiation： C： 1. 000±0. 1556, TG： 1. 0075±0. 1472）. Eight weeks after thoracic irradiation with 12 Gy, we observed a significant increase of MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity in lung homogenates from both transgenic and normal mice. In TGF-β1 transgenic mice relative MMP-9 activity was increased to 1. 5321±0. 2217 folds 8 weeks after thoracic irradiation with 12 Gy as compared to those after sham-irradiation （1. 000±0. 2153）, and relative MMP-2 activity was increased to 1. 7142 ± 0. 4231 folds. Our results show that TGF-β1 itself down-regulates activity of MMP-9, thereby decreases ECM degradation in lungs of TGF-β1 transgenic mice. Also we find that ionizing irradiation upregulates both MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity. Over-expressions of MMP-9 and MMP-2 after lung irradiation are involved in the inflammatory response associated with radiation-induced lung injury, and maybe further in radiation-induced lung fibrosis.
基金This research was supported by grants from the 973 Program （2006CB504002, 2006CB944002） and the National Natural Science Foundation of China （30425006）.
文摘Aim： To investigate the expression of Spindlin 1 （Spin First, reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction present in mouse testis. Then the expression patterns 1） isoform2 and assess its function in mouse testis. Methods： （RT-PCR） was used to determine whether Spinl isoform2 is of the isoform between newborn and adult mice testes were compared by immunoblot analysis. Finally, the diversity of its localization in mice testes at different ages （days 0, 7, 14, 21, 28 and 60） was observed by immunohistochemistry. The localization of the protein in mouse sperm was also investigated by immunofluorescence. Results： The RT-PCR results show that Spinl isoform2 is present in mouse testis. As shown by immunoblot analysis, the isoform was more highly expressed in adult testes compared with newborn testes. Interestingly, Spinl isoform2 did not show up in the cytoplasm of primary spermatocytes until day 14. Also, the protein exists at the tail of the mouse sperm. Conclusion： Spinl isoform2 is a protein expressed highly in adult testis, which might be involved in spermatogenesis and could be necessary for normal sperm motility.
基金supported by the STI 2030-Major Projects 2022ZD0208500(to DY)the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.82072011(to YX),82121003(to DY),82271120(to YS)+2 种基金Sichuan Science and Technology Program,No.2022ZYD0066(to YS)a grant from Chinese Academy of Medical Science,No.2019-12M-5-032(to YS)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities,No.ZYGX2021YGLH219(to KC)。
文摘Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreve rsible blindness wo rldwide,and previous studies have shown that,in addition to affecting the eyes,it also causes abnormalities in the brain.However,it is not yet clear how the primary visual cortex(V1)is altered in glaucoma.This study used DBA/2J mice as a model for spontaneous secondary glaucoma.The aim of the study was to compare the electrophysiological and histomorphological chara cteristics of neurons in the V1between 9-month-old DBA/2J mice and age-matched C57BL/6J mice.We conducted single-unit recordings in the V1 of light-anesthetized mice to measure the visually induced responses,including single-unit spiking and gamma band oscillations.The morphology of layerⅡ/Ⅲneurons was determined by neuronal nuclear antigen staining and Nissl staining of brain tissue sections.Eighty-seven neurons from eight DBA/2J mice and eighty-one neurons from eight C57BL/6J mice were examined.Compared with the C57BL/6J group,V1 neurons in the DBA/2J group exhibited weaker visual tuning and impaired spatial summation.Moreove r,fewer neuro ns were observed in the V1 of DBA/2J mice compared with C57BL/6J mice.These findings suggest that DBA/2J mice have fewer neurons in the VI compared with C57BL/6J mice,and that these neurons have impaired visual tuning.Our findings provide a better understanding of the pathological changes that occur in V1 neuron function and morphology in the DBA/2J mouse model.This study might offer some innovative perspectives regarding the treatment of glaucoma.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31472097)
文摘To investigate the expression of Prominin-1(Prom-1)in mouse uterus during peri-implantation.In situ hybridization and immunohistochemical staining were used to detect the mRNA and protein expression level of Prom-1 in mice uterus in early pregnancy,pseudopregnancy,estrous cycle,treated with hormone,delayed implantation and activation models.The results showed that Prom-1 was gradually weakened in uterine luminal epithelium(LE)and glandular epithelium(GE)during days 1-4 of pregnancy.During days 5-8,Prom-1 was strongly expressed in GE,and signal of Prom-1 protein was detected in matrix and decidua around the embryo.Similar to pregnancy,Prom-1 was strongly expressed in LE and GE on the 1st day and weakly expressed on the 4th day of pseudopregnancy.In addition,Prom-1 was highly expressed in LE and GE on estrus.Expression of Prom-1 was observed in the LE and the GE of delayed-implantation uterus.In activated-implantation animal model,Prom-1 was strongly expressed in the GE.In the hormone-treated model,Prom-1 expression levels were higher in the uterus of the 17β-estradiol-treated group than those in the control group.These results indicated that Prom-1 might promote the proliferation of mouse endometrial epithelium and participate in the establishment of uterine receptivity.Meanwhile,the expression of Prom-1 was up-regulated by the 17β-estradiol,indicating that Prom-1 might involve in the process of decidua development regulated by uterine glands,and Prom-1 might play an important role in mice early pregnancy.
文摘AIM: To investigate anti-hypersensitive effects of α2δ-1 ligands in non-inflammatory and inflammationassociated colonic hypersensitivity(CHS) mouse models.METHODS: To induce an inflammation-associated CHS, 1% dextran sulfate sodium(DSS) was administered to C57Bl/6J male mice, in drinking water, for 14 d. Regarding the non-inflammatory neonatal maternal separation(NMS)-induced CHS model, wild-type C57BI/6J pups were isolated from their mother from day 2 to day 14(P2 to P14), three hours per day(from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.). Colorectal distension was performed by inflating distension probe from 20 μL to 100 μL by 20 μL increment step every 10 s. After a first colorectal distension(CRD), drugs were administered subcutaneously, in a cumulative manner,(Gabapentin at 30 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg; Pregabalin at 10 mg/kg and 30 mg/kg; Carbamazepine at 10 mg/kg and 30 mg/kg) and a second CRD was performed one hour after each injection.RESULTS: The visceromotor response(VMR) to CRD was increased by our NMS paradigm protocol in comparison to non-handled(NH) mice, considering the highest distension volumes(80 μL: 0.783 ± 0.056 mV /s vs 0.531 ± 0.034 m V/s, P < 0.05 and 100 μL: 1.087 ± 0.056 m V/s vs 0.634 ± 0.038 m V/s, P < 0.05 for NMS and NH mice, respectively). In the inflammationassociated CHS, DSS-treated mice showed a dramatic and significant increase in VMR at 60 and 80 μL distension volumes when compared to control mice(60 μL: 0.920 ± 0.079 m V/s vs 0.426 ± 0.100 m V/s P < 0.05 and 80 μL: 1.193 ± 0.097 mV /s vs 0.681 ± 0.094 mV /s P < 0.05 for DSS- and Water-treated mice, respectively). Carbamazepine failed to significantly reduce CHS in both models. Gabapentin significantly reduced CHS in the DSS-induced model for both subcutaneous injections at 30 or 100 mg/kg. Pregabalin s i g n i f i c a n t l y r e d u c e d V M R t o C R D i n t h e n o n-inflammatory NMS-induced CHS model for the acute subcutaneous administration of the highest cumulative dose(30 mg/kg) and significantly reduced CHS in lowdose DSS-treated mice in a dose-dependent manner. Finally, the percent decrease of AUC induced by acute GBP or Pregabalin treatment were higher in the inflammatory DSS-induced CHS model in comparison to the non-inflammatory NMS-induced CHS model.CONCLUSION: This preclinical study demonstrates α2δ-1 ligands efficacy on inflammation-associated CHS, highlighting their potential clinical interest in patients with chronic abdominal pain and moderate intestinal inflammation.
基金supported by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture,Hatch project 1014094.
文摘Background:Understanding the mechanisms of N utilization for lactation can lead to improved requirement estimates and increased efficiency,which modern dairy diets currently fail to maximize.The mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1(mTORC1)is a central hub of translation regulation,processing extra-and intra-cellular signals of nutrient availability and physiological state,such as amino acids and energy.We hypothesized that dietary amino acids regulate lactation through mTORC1,such that inhibition of mTORC1 will lead to decreased lactation performance when amino acids are not limiting.Our objectives were to assess lactation performance in lactating mice undergoing dietary and pharmacologic interventions designed to alter mTORC1 activity.Methods:First lactation mice(N=18;n=6/treatment)were fed an adequate protein diet(18%crude protein),or an isocaloric protein-restricted diet(9%crude protein)from the day after parturition until lactation day 13.A third group of mice was fed an adequate protein diet and treated with the mTORC1 inhibitor rapamycin(4 mg/kg every other day)intraperitoneally,with the first two groups treated with vehicle as control.Dams and pups were weighed daily,and feed intake was recorded every other day.Milk production was measured every other day beginning on lactation day 4 by the weigh-suckle-weigh method.Tissues were collected after fasting and refeeding.Results:Milk production and pup weight were similarly decreased by both protein restriction and rapamycin treatment,with final production at 50%of control(P=0.008)and final pup weight at 85%of control(P<0.001).Mammary phosphorylation of mTORC1’s downstream targets were decreased by protein restriction and rapamycin treatment(P<0.05),while very little effect was observed in the liver of rapamycin treated mice,and none by protein restriction.Conclusions:Overall,sufficient supply of dietary amino acids was unable to maintain lactation performance status in mice with pharmacologically reduced mammary mTORC1 activity,as evidenced by diminished pup growth and milk production,supporting the concept that mTORC1 activation rather than substrate supply is the primary route by which amino acids regulate synthesis of milk components.
