BACKGROUND An in vitro injury model mimicking a corneal surface injury was optimised using human corneal epithelial cells(hCEC).AIM To investigate whether corneal-stroma derived stem cells(CSSC) seeded on an amniotic ...BACKGROUND An in vitro injury model mimicking a corneal surface injury was optimised using human corneal epithelial cells(hCEC).AIM To investigate whether corneal-stroma derived stem cells(CSSC) seeded on an amniotic membrane(AM) construct manifests an anti-inflammatory, healing response.METHODS Treatment of hCEC with ethanol and pro-inflammatory cytokines were compared in terms of viability loss, cytotoxicity, and pro-inflammatory cytokine release, in order to generate the in vitro injury. This resulted in an optimal injury of 20%(v/v) ethanol for 30 s with 1 ng/mL interleukin-1(IL-1) beta. Co-culture experiments were performed with CSSC alone and with CSSC-AM constructs.The effect of injury and co-culture on viability, cytotoxicity, IL-6 and IL-8 production, and IL1 B, TNF, IL6, and CXCL8 mRNA expression were assessed.RESULTS Co-culture with CSSC inhibited loss of hCEC viability caused by injury. Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay and polymerase chain reaction showed a significant reduction in the production of IL-6 and IL-8 pro-inflammatory cytokines, and reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokine mRNA expression during co-culture with CSSC alone and with the AM construct. These results confirmed the therapeutic potential of the CSSC and the possible use of AM as a cell carrier for application to the ocular surface.CONCLUSION CSSC were shown to have a potentially therapeutic anti-inflammatory effectwhen treating injured hCEC, demonstrating an important role in corneal regeneration and wound healing, leading to an improved knowledge of their potential use for research and therapeutic purposes.展开更多
Objective:To explore and validate the potential targets of Paeoniae Radix Alba(P.Radix,Bai Shao)in protecting against chemical liver injury through network pharmacology,molecular docking technology,and in vitro cell e...Objective:To explore and validate the potential targets of Paeoniae Radix Alba(P.Radix,Bai Shao)in protecting against chemical liver injury through network pharmacology,molecular docking technology,and in vitro cell experiments.Methods:Network pharmacology was used to identify the common potential targets of P.Radix and chemical liver injury.Molecular docking was used to fit the components,which were subsequently verified in vitro.A cell model of hepatic fibrosis was established by activating hepatic stellate cell(HSC)-LX2 cells with 10 ng/mL transforming growth factor-β1.The cells were exposed to different concentrations of total glucosides of paeony(TGP),the active substance of P.Radix,and then evaluated using the cell counting kit-8 assay,enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay,and western blot.Results:Analysis through network pharmacology revealed 13 key compounds of P.Radix,and the potential targets for preventing chemical liver injury were IL-6,AKT serine/threonine kinase 1,jun protooncogene,heat shock protein 90 alpha family class A member 1(HSP90AA1),peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma(PPARG),PTGS2,and CASP3.Gene Ontology(GO)enrichment analysis indicated the involvement of response to drugs,membrane rafts,and peptide binding.Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes(KEGG)enrichment analysis revealed that the main pathways involved lipid and atherosclerosis and chemical carcinogenesis-receptor activation.Paeoniflorin and albiflorin exhibited strong affinity for HSP90AA1,PTGS2,PPARG,and CASP3.Different concentrations of TGP can inhibit the expression of COL-I,COL-III,IL-6,TNF-a,IL-1β,HSP-90a,and PTGS2 while increasing the expression of PPAR-γand CASP3 in activated HSC-LX2 cells.Conclusion:P.Radix primarily can regulate targets such as HSP90AA1,PTGS2,PPARG,CASP3.TGP,the main active compound of P.Radix,protects against chemical liver injury by reducing the inflammatory response,activating apoptotic proteins,and promoting the apoptosis of activated HSCs.展开更多
A corneal epithelial-stromal defect is recognized as a major contributor to corneal scarring.Given the rising prevalence of blindness caused by corneal scarring,increasing attention has been focused on corneal epithel...A corneal epithelial-stromal defect is recognized as a major contributor to corneal scarring.Given the rising prevalence of blindness caused by corneal scarring,increasing attention has been focused on corneal epithelialstromal defects.Currently,the etiology and pathogenesis of these defects remain inadequately understood,necessitating further investigation through experimental research.Various modeling methods exist both domestically and internationally,each with distinct adaptive conditions,advantages,and disadvantages.This review primarily aims to summarize the techniques used to establish optimal animal models of corneal epithelial-stromal injury,including mechanical modeling,chemical alkali burns,post-refractive surgery infections,and genetic engineering.The intention is to provide valuable insights for studying the mechanisms underlying corneal epithelial-stromal injury and the development of corresponding therapeutic interventions.展开更多
AIM: To investigate the effect of amniotic membrane transplantation (AMT) on the expressions of inflammatory-related, angiogenic-related and growth-related cytokines in rat corneas after chemical injury. METHODS: Alka...AIM: To investigate the effect of amniotic membrane transplantation (AMT) on the expressions of inflammatory-related, angiogenic-related and growth-related cytokines in rat corneas after chemical injury. METHODS: Alkali wounds were inflicted on the central corneas of rats by applying a round filter paper soaked in 1mol/L NaOH for 40 seconds. One week after alkali burn, 12 rats were randomly divided into 2 groups: the AMT group and the control group, and AMT was performed on the rats in the AMT group. Corneal opacity and neovascularization were observed by slit-lamp microscopy. The protein levels of interleukin (IL)-2, interferon (IFN)-gamma, IL-10 and transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay 2 weeks after AMT. The mRNA levels of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), epidermal growth factor (EGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) were evaluated by real-time quantitative PCR. RESULTS: In the AMT group, the corneal opacity was improved (P =0.011) and the area of corneal neovascularization was significantly decreased (P=0.005) compared with the control group. The amount of IL-2 and IFN-gamma secreted by Th1 cells were decreased after AMT, whereas the amount of IL-10 and TGF-beta secreted by Th2 cells were increased ( P <0.05). The level of MMP-2 was significantly down-regulated (P=0.013) at the nnRNA level in the AMT group, while the expression of EGF was significantly higher (P= 0.022) compared with the control. CONCLUSION: AMT may suppress corneal neovascularization after chemical injury by modulating the expressions of soluble factors.展开更多
The expression of VEGF-C and molecular mechanisms of lymphangiogenesis in rat cornea after alkali injury was studied. The rat alkali injured corneal models were made. Under electron microscopy, the lymphatic vessels i...The expression of VEGF-C and molecular mechanisms of lymphangiogenesis in rat cornea after alkali injury was studied. The rat alkali injured corneal models were made. Under electron microscopy, the lymphatic vessels in the rat injured corneas were examined. The expression of VEGF-C proteins was detected by using immunohistochemical assay at day 1, 3, 5, 7, 9 after injury. The expression levels of VEGF-C mRNA were quantified with reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The results showed that the lymphatic vessels were found in the injured rat corneas 14 days after the injury. The VEGF-C protein was detectable 3 days after injury, reached the peak 5 days after injury, and gradually decreased. In the control group, no VEGF-C proteins were detected. The VEGF-C mRNA was minimally detected in the normal rat corneas, but it was highly expressed 5 days after the injury. The difference was statistically significant. It was concluded that VEGF-C might be one of the most important relevant factors in corneal lymphangiogenesis after alkali injury.展开更多
Chemical ocular injury is one of the common ophthalmologic emergencies that can cause vision loss and serious complications.Despite all protective measures,it continues to be a serious public health problem,especially...Chemical ocular injury is one of the common ophthalmologic emergencies that can cause vision loss and serious complications.Despite all protective measures,it continues to be a serious public health problem,especially in young male patients.Although it is known that injuries occur most frequently in the workplace and in young male patients,there is a variable frequency and distribution in different regions around the world.In addition,with the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic,there are changing trends in ocular chemical injuries.This review aims to specify an update on the epidemiological and etiological features of ocular chemical injuries.展开更多
Both domestic and foreign terror incidents are an unfortunate outgrowth of our modern times from the Oklahoma City bombings, Sarin gas attacks in Japan, the Madrid train bombing, anthrax spores in the mail, to the Wor...Both domestic and foreign terror incidents are an unfortunate outgrowth of our modern times from the Oklahoma City bombings, Sarin gas attacks in Japan, the Madrid train bombing, anthrax spores in the mail, to the World Trade Center on September 11 th, 2001. The modalities used to perpetrate these terrorist acts range from conventional weapons to high explosives, chemical weapons, and biological weapons all of which have been used in the recent past. While these weapons platforms can cause significant injury requiring critical care the mechanism of injury, pathophysiology and treatment of these injuries are unfamiliar to many critical care providers. Additionally the pediatric population is particularly vulnerable to these types of attacks. In the event of a mass casualty incident both adult and pediatric critical care practitioners will likely be called upon to care for children and adults alike. We will review the presentation, pathophysiology, and treatment of victims of blast injury, chemical weapons, and biological weapons. The focus will be on those injuries not commonly encountered in critical care practice, primary blast injuries, category A pathogens likely to be used in terrorist incidents, and chemical weapons including nerve agents, vesicants, pulmonary agents, cyanide, and riot control agents with special attention paid to pediatric specific considerations.展开更多
Objective: To observe the changes in corneal tissue after explosive corneal injury and the effect of seawater soaking on the healing of cornea after explosive injury with the help ofoptical microscope. Methods: Make 1...Objective: To observe the changes in corneal tissue after explosive corneal injury and the effect of seawater soaking on the healing of cornea after explosive injury with the help ofoptical microscope. Methods: Make 10 similar explosive injury models of rabbit′s eyeball using 10 adult greyrabbits. For each rabbit, both eyes are artificially injured through explosion; its right eye is the comparison eye and after the injury the left eye is soaked in seawater for 30 minutes.Conduct slit lamp examinations, fluorescein dyeing, and ultrasonic cornea thickness metering on the corneas at intervals, that is, before the injury, 1 , 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 9, 12, 15days after the injury respectively. Examine the corneas under the optical microscope andmake comparisons.Results: The corneal thickness of the experiment eye becomes apparently thicker than thatof the comparison eye after the injury. The corneal clouding of the former apparentlyaggravates compared with the latter. The healing of corneal epithelium in the injured eye isslower compared with that in the comparison eye. Comparative examination under the opticalmicroscope shows: after the injury, the corneal tissue of the experiment eye changesdistinctly, its healing is delayed and the vascularization degree becomes high in cornealstroma.Conclusion: Scars and vascularization of various degrees will appear in corneal stroma afterexplosive injuries. Seawater soaking will have bad effects on the healing of the corneainjured in explosions.展开更多
Coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)consists of a systemic disease that can present many complications.The infection presents broad clinical symptoms and a high rate of transmissibility.In addition to severe acute respi...Coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)consists of a systemic disease that can present many complications.The infection presents broad clinical symptoms and a high rate of transmissibility.In addition to severe acute respiratory syndrome,the patients manifest complications beyond the respiratory system.The frequency of liver damage in COVID-19 patients ranges from 14.8% to 53% of patients.One should pay attention to drug-induced liver injury(DILI)in patients with COVID-19,especially considering the off-label use of drugs in prophylactic and therapeutic regimens applied on large scales.This review aims to present relevant information on the medication used so far in COVID-19 patients and its possible hepatotoxicity.We reviewed liver damage in patients with COVID-19 on PubMed and Virtual Health Library to investigate DILI cases.Four studies were selected,involving the medicines remdesivir,tocilizumab and a pharmacovigilance analysis study.The hepatotoxicity profile of drugs presented in the literature considers use in accordance to usual posology standards for treatment.However,drugs currently used in the management of COVID-19 follow different dosages and posology than those tested by the pharmaceutical industry.The deficiency of uniformity and standardization in the assessment of hepatotoxicity cases hinders the publication of information and the possibility of comparing information among healthcare professionals.It is suggested that severe liver injury in COVID-19 patients should be reported in pharmacovigilance institutions,and physicians should pay attention to any considerable abnormal liver test elevation as it can demonstrate unknown drug hepatotoxicity.Liver disorders in COVID-19 patients and the use of several concomitant off-label medications—with a potential risk of further damaging the liver-should at least be a warning sign for rapid identification and early intervention,thus preventing liver damage from contributing to severe impairment in patients.展开更多
AIM: To evaluate the biomechanical stability of the corneal scar treating with riboflavin and ultraviolet A(UVA). METHODS: Totally 86 New Zeal rabbits were divided into control group(group A, n=8) and trauma groups [g...AIM: To evaluate the biomechanical stability of the corneal scar treating with riboflavin and ultraviolet A(UVA). METHODS: Totally 86 New Zeal rabbits were divided into control group(group A, n=8) and trauma groups [group B(n=27), group C(n=24) and group D(n=27)]. Then groups B, C and D were divided into three sub-groups according to the time points of sacrifice, i.e. groups Ba, Ca and Da(4 wk, n=8); Bb, Cb and Db(6 wk, n=8); Bc(n=11), Cc(n=8) and Dc(8 wk, n=11). The right corneas of these 78 rabbits in the trauma groups were penetrated. Group B were only sutured. Group C were treated with corneal cross-linking(CXL) immediately after suturing. Group D were treated with CXL seven days after suturing. The corneal scar strips of 4.0×10.0 mm2 were cut and the stress and Young's modulus at 10% strain were evaluated. Samples from the three rabbits of group Bc and three of group Dc were used to measure the expression of alpha smooth muscle action(α-SMA). RESULTS: The mechanical strength of the corneal scar increased with time, and was strongest at 8 wk after the injury. The ultimate stress of corneal scar(group D) were 2.17±0.52 MPa, 2.92±0.63 MPa, and 4.21±0.68 Mpa at 4 wk, 6 wk and 8 wk, respectively; Young's modulus were 10.94±1.57 MPa, 11.16±2.50 MPa, and 13.36±2.10 Mpa, which were higher than that of other groups except for normal control. The expression of α-SMA in group B and group D were 0.28±0.11 and 0.65±0.20, respectively, and the difference was statistically significant(P=0.048). CONCLUSION: CXL with riboflavin/UVA at seven days after suturing improved the biomechanical properties of corneal scars most effectively in the present study.展开更多
A chemically extracted acellular allogeneic nerve graft can reduce postoperative immune rejection, similar to an autologous nerve graft, and can guide neural regeneration. However, it remains poorly understood whether...A chemically extracted acellular allogeneic nerve graft can reduce postoperative immune rejection, similar to an autologous nerve graft, and can guide neural regeneration. However, it remains poorly understood whether a chemically extracted acellular allogeneic nerve graft combined with neurotrophic factors provides a good local environment for neural regeneration. This study investigated the repair of injured rat sciatic nerve using a chemically extracted acellular allogeneic nerve graft combined with ciliary neurotrophic factor. An autologous nerve anastomosis group and a chemical acellular allogeneic nerve bridging group were prepared as controls. At 8 weeks after repair, sciatic functional index, evoked potential amplitude of the soleus muscle, triceps wet weight recovery rate, total number of myelinated nerve fibers and myelin sheath thickness were measured. For these indices, values in the three groups showed the autologous nerve anastomosis group 〉 chemically extracted acellular nerve graft + ciliary neurotrophic factor group 〉 chemical acellular allogeneic nerve bridging group. These results suggest that chemically extracted acellular nerve grafts combined with ciliary neurotrophic factor can repair sciatic nerve defects, and that this repair is inferior to autologous nerve anastomosis, but superior to chemically extracted acellular allogeneic nerve bridging alone.展开更多
Chemically extracted acellular nerve allografts loaded with brain-derived neurotrophic fac- tor-transfected or ciliary neurotrophic factor-transfected bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells have been shown to repair sciat...Chemically extracted acellular nerve allografts loaded with brain-derived neurotrophic fac- tor-transfected or ciliary neurotrophic factor-transfected bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells have been shown to repair sciatic nerve injury better than chemically extracted acellular nerve allografts alone, or chemically extracted acellular nerve allografts loaded with bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells. We hypothesized that these allografts compounded with both brain-derived neurotrophic factor- and ciliary neurotrophic factor-transfected bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells may demonstrate even better effects in the repair of peripheral nerve injury. We cultured bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells expressing brain-derived neuro- trophic factor and/or ciliary neurotrophic factor and used them to treat sciatic nerve injury in rats. We observed an increase in sciatic functional index, triceps wet weight recovery rate, myelin thickness, number of myelinated nerve fibers, amplitude of motor-evoked potentials and nerve conduction velocity, and a shortened latency of motor-evoked potentials when al- lografts loaded with both neurotrophic factors were used, compared with allografts loaded with just one factor. Thus, the combination of both brain-derived neurotrophic factor and cili- ary neurotrophic factor-transfected bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells can greatly improve nerve injury.展开更多
Humans depend on the coordinated activity of their lower extremities for mobility, an essential feature of Homo sapiens. In addition, they use vision to use this mobility to successfully navigate through their environ...Humans depend on the coordinated activity of their lower extremities for mobility, an essential feature of Homo sapiens. In addition, they use vision to use this mobility to successfully navigate through their environment. During development, mobility appears to mature first, and then it is coordinated with navigation. Thus, the two, mobility and navigation are likely interdependent in function. Recent studies have indicated that compromising the integrity of the knee, a central element of the lower extremity motion segment, can lead to molecular alterations in both the cornea including the central cornea where light passes, as well as the interior of the eye (the vitreous humor). Not all insults to the knee lead to reproducible alterations in the eye, indicating some specificity in the response. In addition, it was recently reported that alterations to the cells in the vitreous humor occur following dietary induction of obesity in a rat model. As humans with obesity, as well as arthritis of the knee are at risk for ocular involvement and exhibit altered gait characteristics, the clinical and preclinical data raise the possibility of a “knee-eye-brain axis” to control or regulate mobility and navigation. Better delineation of such an axis could have implications for variations in control during maturation, and well as during aging when vision and mobility can be compromised, with increased risk for serious falls and failure to successfully navigate the environment.展开更多
Ischemia-reperfusion injury occurs after reperfusion treatment for patients suffering myocardial infarction,however the underlying mechanisms are incompletely understood and effective pharmacological interventions are...Ischemia-reperfusion injury occurs after reperfusion treatment for patients suffering myocardial infarction,however the underlying mechanisms are incompletely understood and effective pharmacological interventions are limited.Here,we report the identification and characterization of the FDA-approved drug disulfiram(DSF)as a cardioprotective compound.By applying high-throughput chemical screening,we found that DSF decreased H_(2)O_(2)-induced cardiomyocyte death by inhibiting Gasdermin D,but not ALDH1,in cardiomyocytes.Oral gavage of DSF decreased myocardial infarct size and improved heart function after myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats.Therefore,this work reveals DSF as a potential therapeutic compound for the treatment of ischemic heart disease.展开更多
BACKGROUND Adverse drug reactions are responsible for increased costs and morbidity in the health system.Hepatotoxicity can be induced both by non-prescription drugs and by those used for chronic diseases.It is the ma...BACKGROUND Adverse drug reactions are responsible for increased costs and morbidity in the health system.Hepatotoxicity can be induced both by non-prescription drugs and by those used for chronic diseases.It is the main cause of safety-related drug marketing withdrawals and could be responsible for irreversible and fatal injuries.AIM To identify and to summarize Brazilian studies reporting the drug-induced liver injury.METHODS A systematic review of Brazilian studies was carried out until June 2020.It was found 32 studies,being 10 retrospective cohorts,12 prospective cohorts,5 crosssectional,3 case-control,one case series and one randomized clinical trial.In most studies were investigated tuberculosis patients followed by other infectious conditions like human immunodeficiency virus(HIV)and hepatitis C virus.The hepatotoxicity ranged from one to 57%,led by isoniazid,rifampicin,and pyrazinamide.Few studies reported algorithm to assess causality.In most studies,there were moderate outcomes and it was necessary drug interruption.However,few severe outcomes,such as chronic liver damage and liver transplantation were reported.RESULTS Twenty-two different criteria for hepatotoxicity were found.The great heterogeneity did not allow a meta-analysis.Standardization of parameter of drug-induced liver injury and greater effort in pharmacovigilance could contribute to learn more about drug-induced liver injury(DILI)’s epidemiology in Brazil.CONCLUSION The development of strategic public health policies seems to have an influence on the DILI scientific evidence in Brazil due to main studies are in HIV and tuberculosis line care,two strategic health policies in Brazil.展开更多
Liver injury secondary to vaccination is a rare adverse event that has recently come under attention thanks to the continuous pharmacovigilance following the widespread implementation of coronavirus disease 2019(COVID...Liver injury secondary to vaccination is a rare adverse event that has recently come under attention thanks to the continuous pharmacovigilance following the widespread implementation of coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)vaccination protocols.All three most widely distributed severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 vaccine formulations,e.g.,BNT162b2,mRNA-1273,and ChAdOx1-S,can induce liver injury that may involve immune-mediated pathways and result in autoimmune hepatitis-like presentation that may require therapeutic intervention in the form of corticosteroid administration.Various mechanisms have been proposed in an attempt to highlight immune checkpoint inhibition and thus establish causality with vaccination.The autoimmune features of such a reaction also prompt an in-depth investigation of the newly employed vaccine technologies.Novel vaccine delivery platforms,e.g.,mRNA-containing lipid nanoparticles and adenoviral vectors,contribute to the inflammatory background that leads to an exaggerated immune response,while patterns of molecular mimicry between the spike(S)protein and prominent liver antigens may account for the autoimmune presentation.Immune mediators triggered by vaccination or vaccine ingredients per se,including autoreactive antibodies,cytokines,and cytotoxic T-cell populations,may inflict hepatocellular damage through wellestablished pathways.We aim to review available data associated with immunemediated liver injury associated with COVID-19 vaccination and elucidate potential mechanisms underlying its pathogenesis.展开更多
Anabolic androgenic steroids(AASs)are a group of molecules including endogenous testosterone and synthetic derivatives that have both androgenic and anabolic effects.These properties make them therapeutically benefici...Anabolic androgenic steroids(AASs)are a group of molecules including endogenous testosterone and synthetic derivatives that have both androgenic and anabolic effects.These properties make them therapeutically beneficial in medical conditions such as hypogonadism.However,they are commonly bought illegally and misused for their anabolic,skeletal muscle building,and performanceenhancing effects.Supraphysiologic and long-term use of AASs affects all organs,leading to cardiovascular,neurological,endocrine,gastrointestinal,renal,and hematologic disorders.Hepatotoxicity is one of the major concerns regarding AASs treatment and abuse.Testosterone and its derivatives have been most often shown to induce a specific form of cholestasis,peliosis hepatis,and hepatic benign and malignant tumors.It is currently believed that mechanisms of pathogenesis of these disorders include disturbance of antioxidative factors,upregulation of bile acid synthesis,and induction of hepatocyte hyperplasia.Most toxicity cases are treated with supportive measures and liver function normalizes with discontinuation of AAS.However,some long-term consequences are irreversible.AAS-induced liver injury should be taken in consideration in patients with liver disorders,especially with the increasing unintentional ingestion of supplements containing AAS.In this paper,we review the most current knowledge about AAS-associated adverse effects on the liver,and their clinical presentations,prevalence,and pathophysiological mechanisms.展开更多
Neuronal injuries can lead to various diseases such as neurodegenerative diseases,stroke,trauma,ischemia and,more specifically,glaucoma and optic neuritis.The cellular mechanisms that regulate neuronal death include c...Neuronal injuries can lead to various diseases such as neurodegenerative diseases,stroke,trauma,ischemia and,more specifically,glaucoma and optic neuritis.The cellular mechanisms that regulate neuronal death include calcium influx and calcium overload,excitatory amino acid release,oxidative stress,inflammation and microglial activation.Much attention has been paid to the effective prevention and treatment of neuroprotective drugs by natural products.This review summarizes the neuroprotective aspects of natural products,extracted from Panax ginseng,Camellia sinensis,soy and some other plants,and some of their chemical derivatives.Their antioxidative and anti-inflammatory action and their inhibition of apoptosis and microglial activation are assessed.This will provide new directions for the development of novel drugs and strategies to treat neurodegenerative diseases.展开更多
Dear editor,According to the China’s National Standard Diagnostic Criteria of Occupational Diseases,occupational acute chemical poisoning refers to the short-term exposure of workers to several chemicals during produ...Dear editor,According to the China’s National Standard Diagnostic Criteria of Occupational Diseases,occupational acute chemical poisoning refers to the short-term exposure of workers to several chemicals during production,resulting in corresponding organ damage.Herein,we report a case of chemical eye injuries and aspiration pneumonia caused by acute chemical poisoning in the chemical industry.展开更多
文摘BACKGROUND An in vitro injury model mimicking a corneal surface injury was optimised using human corneal epithelial cells(hCEC).AIM To investigate whether corneal-stroma derived stem cells(CSSC) seeded on an amniotic membrane(AM) construct manifests an anti-inflammatory, healing response.METHODS Treatment of hCEC with ethanol and pro-inflammatory cytokines were compared in terms of viability loss, cytotoxicity, and pro-inflammatory cytokine release, in order to generate the in vitro injury. This resulted in an optimal injury of 20%(v/v) ethanol for 30 s with 1 ng/mL interleukin-1(IL-1) beta. Co-culture experiments were performed with CSSC alone and with CSSC-AM constructs.The effect of injury and co-culture on viability, cytotoxicity, IL-6 and IL-8 production, and IL1 B, TNF, IL6, and CXCL8 mRNA expression were assessed.RESULTS Co-culture with CSSC inhibited loss of hCEC viability caused by injury. Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay and polymerase chain reaction showed a significant reduction in the production of IL-6 and IL-8 pro-inflammatory cytokines, and reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokine mRNA expression during co-culture with CSSC alone and with the AM construct. These results confirmed the therapeutic potential of the CSSC and the possible use of AM as a cell carrier for application to the ocular surface.CONCLUSION CSSC were shown to have a potentially therapeutic anti-inflammatory effectwhen treating injured hCEC, demonstrating an important role in corneal regeneration and wound healing, leading to an improved knowledge of their potential use for research and therapeutic purposes.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82074036).
文摘Objective:To explore and validate the potential targets of Paeoniae Radix Alba(P.Radix,Bai Shao)in protecting against chemical liver injury through network pharmacology,molecular docking technology,and in vitro cell experiments.Methods:Network pharmacology was used to identify the common potential targets of P.Radix and chemical liver injury.Molecular docking was used to fit the components,which were subsequently verified in vitro.A cell model of hepatic fibrosis was established by activating hepatic stellate cell(HSC)-LX2 cells with 10 ng/mL transforming growth factor-β1.The cells were exposed to different concentrations of total glucosides of paeony(TGP),the active substance of P.Radix,and then evaluated using the cell counting kit-8 assay,enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay,and western blot.Results:Analysis through network pharmacology revealed 13 key compounds of P.Radix,and the potential targets for preventing chemical liver injury were IL-6,AKT serine/threonine kinase 1,jun protooncogene,heat shock protein 90 alpha family class A member 1(HSP90AA1),peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma(PPARG),PTGS2,and CASP3.Gene Ontology(GO)enrichment analysis indicated the involvement of response to drugs,membrane rafts,and peptide binding.Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes(KEGG)enrichment analysis revealed that the main pathways involved lipid and atherosclerosis and chemical carcinogenesis-receptor activation.Paeoniflorin and albiflorin exhibited strong affinity for HSP90AA1,PTGS2,PPARG,and CASP3.Different concentrations of TGP can inhibit the expression of COL-I,COL-III,IL-6,TNF-a,IL-1β,HSP-90a,and PTGS2 while increasing the expression of PPAR-γand CASP3 in activated HSC-LX2 cells.Conclusion:P.Radix primarily can regulate targets such as HSP90AA1,PTGS2,PPARG,CASP3.TGP,the main active compound of P.Radix,protects against chemical liver injury by reducing the inflammatory response,activating apoptotic proteins,and promoting the apoptosis of activated HSCs.
基金Supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(No.2020YFE0204400)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82271042)the Zhejiang Province Key Research and Development Program(No.2023C03090).
文摘A corneal epithelial-stromal defect is recognized as a major contributor to corneal scarring.Given the rising prevalence of blindness caused by corneal scarring,increasing attention has been focused on corneal epithelialstromal defects.Currently,the etiology and pathogenesis of these defects remain inadequately understood,necessitating further investigation through experimental research.Various modeling methods exist both domestically and internationally,each with distinct adaptive conditions,advantages,and disadvantages.This review primarily aims to summarize the techniques used to establish optimal animal models of corneal epithelial-stromal injury,including mechanical modeling,chemical alkali burns,post-refractive surgery infections,and genetic engineering.The intention is to provide valuable insights for studying the mechanisms underlying corneal epithelial-stromal injury and the development of corresponding therapeutic interventions.
基金Science and Technology Project for Social Development of Nantong, China (No. S2009029)
文摘AIM: To investigate the effect of amniotic membrane transplantation (AMT) on the expressions of inflammatory-related, angiogenic-related and growth-related cytokines in rat corneas after chemical injury. METHODS: Alkali wounds were inflicted on the central corneas of rats by applying a round filter paper soaked in 1mol/L NaOH for 40 seconds. One week after alkali burn, 12 rats were randomly divided into 2 groups: the AMT group and the control group, and AMT was performed on the rats in the AMT group. Corneal opacity and neovascularization were observed by slit-lamp microscopy. The protein levels of interleukin (IL)-2, interferon (IFN)-gamma, IL-10 and transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay 2 weeks after AMT. The mRNA levels of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), epidermal growth factor (EGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) were evaluated by real-time quantitative PCR. RESULTS: In the AMT group, the corneal opacity was improved (P =0.011) and the area of corneal neovascularization was significantly decreased (P=0.005) compared with the control group. The amount of IL-2 and IFN-gamma secreted by Th1 cells were decreased after AMT, whereas the amount of IL-10 and TGF-beta secreted by Th2 cells were increased ( P <0.05). The level of MMP-2 was significantly down-regulated (P=0.013) at the nnRNA level in the AMT group, while the expression of EGF was significantly higher (P= 0.022) compared with the control. CONCLUSION: AMT may suppress corneal neovascularization after chemical injury by modulating the expressions of soluble factors.
文摘The expression of VEGF-C and molecular mechanisms of lymphangiogenesis in rat cornea after alkali injury was studied. The rat alkali injured corneal models were made. Under electron microscopy, the lymphatic vessels in the rat injured corneas were examined. The expression of VEGF-C proteins was detected by using immunohistochemical assay at day 1, 3, 5, 7, 9 after injury. The expression levels of VEGF-C mRNA were quantified with reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The results showed that the lymphatic vessels were found in the injured rat corneas 14 days after the injury. The VEGF-C protein was detectable 3 days after injury, reached the peak 5 days after injury, and gradually decreased. In the control group, no VEGF-C proteins were detected. The VEGF-C mRNA was minimally detected in the normal rat corneas, but it was highly expressed 5 days after the injury. The difference was statistically significant. It was concluded that VEGF-C might be one of the most important relevant factors in corneal lymphangiogenesis after alkali injury.
文摘Chemical ocular injury is one of the common ophthalmologic emergencies that can cause vision loss and serious complications.Despite all protective measures,it continues to be a serious public health problem,especially in young male patients.Although it is known that injuries occur most frequently in the workplace and in young male patients,there is a variable frequency and distribution in different regions around the world.In addition,with the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic,there are changing trends in ocular chemical injuries.This review aims to specify an update on the epidemiological and etiological features of ocular chemical injuries.
文摘Both domestic and foreign terror incidents are an unfortunate outgrowth of our modern times from the Oklahoma City bombings, Sarin gas attacks in Japan, the Madrid train bombing, anthrax spores in the mail, to the World Trade Center on September 11 th, 2001. The modalities used to perpetrate these terrorist acts range from conventional weapons to high explosives, chemical weapons, and biological weapons all of which have been used in the recent past. While these weapons platforms can cause significant injury requiring critical care the mechanism of injury, pathophysiology and treatment of these injuries are unfamiliar to many critical care providers. Additionally the pediatric population is particularly vulnerable to these types of attacks. In the event of a mass casualty incident both adult and pediatric critical care practitioners will likely be called upon to care for children and adults alike. We will review the presentation, pathophysiology, and treatment of victims of blast injury, chemical weapons, and biological weapons. The focus will be on those injuries not commonly encountered in critical care practice, primary blast injuries, category A pathogens likely to be used in terrorist incidents, and chemical weapons including nerve agents, vesicants, pulmonary agents, cyanide, and riot control agents with special attention paid to pediatric specific considerations.
文摘Objective: To observe the changes in corneal tissue after explosive corneal injury and the effect of seawater soaking on the healing of cornea after explosive injury with the help ofoptical microscope. Methods: Make 10 similar explosive injury models of rabbit′s eyeball using 10 adult greyrabbits. For each rabbit, both eyes are artificially injured through explosion; its right eye is the comparison eye and after the injury the left eye is soaked in seawater for 30 minutes.Conduct slit lamp examinations, fluorescein dyeing, and ultrasonic cornea thickness metering on the corneas at intervals, that is, before the injury, 1 , 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 9, 12, 15days after the injury respectively. Examine the corneas under the optical microscope andmake comparisons.Results: The corneal thickness of the experiment eye becomes apparently thicker than thatof the comparison eye after the injury. The corneal clouding of the former apparentlyaggravates compared with the latter. The healing of corneal epithelium in the injured eye isslower compared with that in the comparison eye. Comparative examination under the opticalmicroscope shows: after the injury, the corneal tissue of the experiment eye changesdistinctly, its healing is delayed and the vascularization degree becomes high in cornealstroma.Conclusion: Scars and vascularization of various degrees will appear in corneal stroma afterexplosive injuries. Seawater soaking will have bad effects on the healing of the corneainjured in explosions.
文摘Coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)consists of a systemic disease that can present many complications.The infection presents broad clinical symptoms and a high rate of transmissibility.In addition to severe acute respiratory syndrome,the patients manifest complications beyond the respiratory system.The frequency of liver damage in COVID-19 patients ranges from 14.8% to 53% of patients.One should pay attention to drug-induced liver injury(DILI)in patients with COVID-19,especially considering the off-label use of drugs in prophylactic and therapeutic regimens applied on large scales.This review aims to present relevant information on the medication used so far in COVID-19 patients and its possible hepatotoxicity.We reviewed liver damage in patients with COVID-19 on PubMed and Virtual Health Library to investigate DILI cases.Four studies were selected,involving the medicines remdesivir,tocilizumab and a pharmacovigilance analysis study.The hepatotoxicity profile of drugs presented in the literature considers use in accordance to usual posology standards for treatment.However,drugs currently used in the management of COVID-19 follow different dosages and posology than those tested by the pharmaceutical industry.The deficiency of uniformity and standardization in the assessment of hepatotoxicity cases hinders the publication of information and the possibility of comparing information among healthcare professionals.It is suggested that severe liver injury in COVID-19 patients should be reported in pharmacovigilance institutions,and physicians should pay attention to any considerable abnormal liver test elevation as it can demonstrate unknown drug hepatotoxicity.Liver disorders in COVID-19 patients and the use of several concomitant off-label medications—with a potential risk of further damaging the liver-should at least be a warning sign for rapid identification and early intervention,thus preventing liver damage from contributing to severe impairment in patients.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No.81660169)the Science and Technology Foundation of Zunyi [No.(2014)94]
文摘AIM: To evaluate the biomechanical stability of the corneal scar treating with riboflavin and ultraviolet A(UVA). METHODS: Totally 86 New Zeal rabbits were divided into control group(group A, n=8) and trauma groups [group B(n=27), group C(n=24) and group D(n=27)]. Then groups B, C and D were divided into three sub-groups according to the time points of sacrifice, i.e. groups Ba, Ca and Da(4 wk, n=8); Bb, Cb and Db(6 wk, n=8); Bc(n=11), Cc(n=8) and Dc(8 wk, n=11). The right corneas of these 78 rabbits in the trauma groups were penetrated. Group B were only sutured. Group C were treated with corneal cross-linking(CXL) immediately after suturing. Group D were treated with CXL seven days after suturing. The corneal scar strips of 4.0×10.0 mm2 were cut and the stress and Young's modulus at 10% strain were evaluated. Samples from the three rabbits of group Bc and three of group Dc were used to measure the expression of alpha smooth muscle action(α-SMA). RESULTS: The mechanical strength of the corneal scar increased with time, and was strongest at 8 wk after the injury. The ultimate stress of corneal scar(group D) were 2.17±0.52 MPa, 2.92±0.63 MPa, and 4.21±0.68 Mpa at 4 wk, 6 wk and 8 wk, respectively; Young's modulus were 10.94±1.57 MPa, 11.16±2.50 MPa, and 13.36±2.10 Mpa, which were higher than that of other groups except for normal control. The expression of α-SMA in group B and group D were 0.28±0.11 and 0.65±0.20, respectively, and the difference was statistically significant(P=0.048). CONCLUSION: CXL with riboflavin/UVA at seven days after suturing improved the biomechanical properties of corneal scars most effectively in the present study.
文摘A chemically extracted acellular allogeneic nerve graft can reduce postoperative immune rejection, similar to an autologous nerve graft, and can guide neural regeneration. However, it remains poorly understood whether a chemically extracted acellular allogeneic nerve graft combined with neurotrophic factors provides a good local environment for neural regeneration. This study investigated the repair of injured rat sciatic nerve using a chemically extracted acellular allogeneic nerve graft combined with ciliary neurotrophic factor. An autologous nerve anastomosis group and a chemical acellular allogeneic nerve bridging group were prepared as controls. At 8 weeks after repair, sciatic functional index, evoked potential amplitude of the soleus muscle, triceps wet weight recovery rate, total number of myelinated nerve fibers and myelin sheath thickness were measured. For these indices, values in the three groups showed the autologous nerve anastomosis group 〉 chemically extracted acellular nerve graft + ciliary neurotrophic factor group 〉 chemical acellular allogeneic nerve bridging group. These results suggest that chemically extracted acellular nerve grafts combined with ciliary neurotrophic factor can repair sciatic nerve defects, and that this repair is inferior to autologous nerve anastomosis, but superior to chemically extracted acellular allogeneic nerve bridging alone.
文摘Chemically extracted acellular nerve allografts loaded with brain-derived neurotrophic fac- tor-transfected or ciliary neurotrophic factor-transfected bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells have been shown to repair sciatic nerve injury better than chemically extracted acellular nerve allografts alone, or chemically extracted acellular nerve allografts loaded with bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells. We hypothesized that these allografts compounded with both brain-derived neurotrophic factor- and ciliary neurotrophic factor-transfected bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells may demonstrate even better effects in the repair of peripheral nerve injury. We cultured bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells expressing brain-derived neuro- trophic factor and/or ciliary neurotrophic factor and used them to treat sciatic nerve injury in rats. We observed an increase in sciatic functional index, triceps wet weight recovery rate, myelin thickness, number of myelinated nerve fibers, amplitude of motor-evoked potentials and nerve conduction velocity, and a shortened latency of motor-evoked potentials when al- lografts loaded with both neurotrophic factors were used, compared with allografts loaded with just one factor. Thus, the combination of both brain-derived neurotrophic factor and cili- ary neurotrophic factor-transfected bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells can greatly improve nerve injury.
文摘Humans depend on the coordinated activity of their lower extremities for mobility, an essential feature of Homo sapiens. In addition, they use vision to use this mobility to successfully navigate through their environment. During development, mobility appears to mature first, and then it is coordinated with navigation. Thus, the two, mobility and navigation are likely interdependent in function. Recent studies have indicated that compromising the integrity of the knee, a central element of the lower extremity motion segment, can lead to molecular alterations in both the cornea including the central cornea where light passes, as well as the interior of the eye (the vitreous humor). Not all insults to the knee lead to reproducible alterations in the eye, indicating some specificity in the response. In addition, it was recently reported that alterations to the cells in the vitreous humor occur following dietary induction of obesity in a rat model. As humans with obesity, as well as arthritis of the knee are at risk for ocular involvement and exhibit altered gait characteristics, the clinical and preclinical data raise the possibility of a “knee-eye-brain axis” to control or regulate mobility and navigation. Better delineation of such an axis could have implications for variations in control during maturation, and well as during aging when vision and mobility can be compromised, with increased risk for serious falls and failure to successfully navigate the environment.
基金supported by grants from the National Key R&D Program of China(2018YFA0800501 and 2019YFA0801602)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32230032,31730061,31430059,and 81870198)Shandong Provincial Natural Science Foundation(ZR2022QH394).
文摘Ischemia-reperfusion injury occurs after reperfusion treatment for patients suffering myocardial infarction,however the underlying mechanisms are incompletely understood and effective pharmacological interventions are limited.Here,we report the identification and characterization of the FDA-approved drug disulfiram(DSF)as a cardioprotective compound.By applying high-throughput chemical screening,we found that DSF decreased H_(2)O_(2)-induced cardiomyocyte death by inhibiting Gasdermin D,but not ALDH1,in cardiomyocytes.Oral gavage of DSF decreased myocardial infarct size and improved heart function after myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats.Therefore,this work reveals DSF as a potential therapeutic compound for the treatment of ischemic heart disease.
文摘BACKGROUND Adverse drug reactions are responsible for increased costs and morbidity in the health system.Hepatotoxicity can be induced both by non-prescription drugs and by those used for chronic diseases.It is the main cause of safety-related drug marketing withdrawals and could be responsible for irreversible and fatal injuries.AIM To identify and to summarize Brazilian studies reporting the drug-induced liver injury.METHODS A systematic review of Brazilian studies was carried out until June 2020.It was found 32 studies,being 10 retrospective cohorts,12 prospective cohorts,5 crosssectional,3 case-control,one case series and one randomized clinical trial.In most studies were investigated tuberculosis patients followed by other infectious conditions like human immunodeficiency virus(HIV)and hepatitis C virus.The hepatotoxicity ranged from one to 57%,led by isoniazid,rifampicin,and pyrazinamide.Few studies reported algorithm to assess causality.In most studies,there were moderate outcomes and it was necessary drug interruption.However,few severe outcomes,such as chronic liver damage and liver transplantation were reported.RESULTS Twenty-two different criteria for hepatotoxicity were found.The great heterogeneity did not allow a meta-analysis.Standardization of parameter of drug-induced liver injury and greater effort in pharmacovigilance could contribute to learn more about drug-induced liver injury(DILI)’s epidemiology in Brazil.CONCLUSION The development of strategic public health policies seems to have an influence on the DILI scientific evidence in Brazil due to main studies are in HIV and tuberculosis line care,two strategic health policies in Brazil.
文摘Liver injury secondary to vaccination is a rare adverse event that has recently come under attention thanks to the continuous pharmacovigilance following the widespread implementation of coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)vaccination protocols.All three most widely distributed severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 vaccine formulations,e.g.,BNT162b2,mRNA-1273,and ChAdOx1-S,can induce liver injury that may involve immune-mediated pathways and result in autoimmune hepatitis-like presentation that may require therapeutic intervention in the form of corticosteroid administration.Various mechanisms have been proposed in an attempt to highlight immune checkpoint inhibition and thus establish causality with vaccination.The autoimmune features of such a reaction also prompt an in-depth investigation of the newly employed vaccine technologies.Novel vaccine delivery platforms,e.g.,mRNA-containing lipid nanoparticles and adenoviral vectors,contribute to the inflammatory background that leads to an exaggerated immune response,while patterns of molecular mimicry between the spike(S)protein and prominent liver antigens may account for the autoimmune presentation.Immune mediators triggered by vaccination or vaccine ingredients per se,including autoreactive antibodies,cytokines,and cytotoxic T-cell populations,may inflict hepatocellular damage through wellestablished pathways.We aim to review available data associated with immunemediated liver injury associated with COVID-19 vaccination and elucidate potential mechanisms underlying its pathogenesis.
文摘Anabolic androgenic steroids(AASs)are a group of molecules including endogenous testosterone and synthetic derivatives that have both androgenic and anabolic effects.These properties make them therapeutically beneficial in medical conditions such as hypogonadism.However,they are commonly bought illegally and misused for their anabolic,skeletal muscle building,and performanceenhancing effects.Supraphysiologic and long-term use of AASs affects all organs,leading to cardiovascular,neurological,endocrine,gastrointestinal,renal,and hematologic disorders.Hepatotoxicity is one of the major concerns regarding AASs treatment and abuse.Testosterone and its derivatives have been most often shown to induce a specific form of cholestasis,peliosis hepatis,and hepatic benign and malignant tumors.It is currently believed that mechanisms of pathogenesis of these disorders include disturbance of antioxidative factors,upregulation of bile acid synthesis,and induction of hepatocyte hyperplasia.Most toxicity cases are treated with supportive measures and liver function normalizes with discontinuation of AAS.However,some long-term consequences are irreversible.AAS-induced liver injury should be taken in consideration in patients with liver disorders,especially with the increasing unintentional ingestion of supplements containing AAS.In this paper,we review the most current knowledge about AAS-associated adverse effects on the liver,and their clinical presentations,prevalence,and pathophysiological mechanisms.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.81600738(to FF),81771239(to ZF),81430043(to ZF),81801300(to NS)。
文摘Neuronal injuries can lead to various diseases such as neurodegenerative diseases,stroke,trauma,ischemia and,more specifically,glaucoma and optic neuritis.The cellular mechanisms that regulate neuronal death include calcium influx and calcium overload,excitatory amino acid release,oxidative stress,inflammation and microglial activation.Much attention has been paid to the effective prevention and treatment of neuroprotective drugs by natural products.This review summarizes the neuroprotective aspects of natural products,extracted from Panax ginseng,Camellia sinensis,soy and some other plants,and some of their chemical derivatives.Their antioxidative and anti-inflammatory action and their inhibition of apoptosis and microglial activation are assessed.This will provide new directions for the development of novel drugs and strategies to treat neurodegenerative diseases.
文摘Dear editor,According to the China’s National Standard Diagnostic Criteria of Occupational Diseases,occupational acute chemical poisoning refers to the short-term exposure of workers to several chemicals during production,resulting in corresponding organ damage.Herein,we report a case of chemical eye injuries and aspiration pneumonia caused by acute chemical poisoning in the chemical industry.