Exploring the interaction between the gut microbiota and cyclic adenosine monophosphate-protein kinase A signaling pathway:a potential therapeutic approach for neurodegenerative diseases

The interaction between the gut microbiota and cyclic adenosine monophosphate(cAMP)-protein kinase A(PKA)signaling pathway in the host's central nervous system plays a crucial role in neurological diseases and enhances communication along the gut–brain axis.The gut microbiota influences the cAMP-PKA signaling pathway through its metabolites,which activates the vagus nerve and modulates the immune and neuroendocrine systems.Conversely,alterations in the cAMP-PKA signaling pathway can affect the composition of the gut microbiota,creating a dynamic network of microbial-host interactions.This reciprocal regulation affects neurodevelopment,neurotransmitter control,and behavioral traits,thus playing a role in the modulation of neurological diseases.The coordinated activity of the gut microbiota and the cAMP-PKA signaling pathway regulates processes such as amyloid-β protein aggregation,mitochondrial dysfunction,abnormal energy metabolism,microglial activation,oxidative stress,and neurotransmitter release,which collectively influence the onset and progression of neurological diseases.This study explores the complex interplay between the gut microbiota and cAMP-PKA signaling pathway,along with its implications for potential therapeutic interventions in neurological diseases.Recent pharmacological research has shown that restoring the balance between gut flora and cAMP-PKA signaling pathway may improve outcomes in neurodegenerative diseases and emotional disorders.This can be achieved through various methods such as dietary modifications,probiotic supplements,Chinese herbal extracts,combinations of Chinese herbs,and innovative dosage forms.These findings suggest that regulating the gut microbiota and cAMP-PKA signaling pathway may provide valuable evidence for developing novel therapeutic approaches for neurodegenerative diseases.

Prolonged intermittent theta burst stimulation restores the balance between A_(2A)R-and A_(1)R-mediated adenosine signaling in the 6-hydroxidopamine model of Parkinson's disease

An imbalance in adenosine-mediated signaling,particularly the increased A_(2A)R-mediated signaling,plays a role in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease.Existing therapeutic approaches fail to alter disease progression,demonstrating the need for novel approaches in PD.Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation is a non-invasive approach that has been shown to improve motor and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease.However,the underlying mechanisms of the beneficial effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation remain unknown.The purpose of this study is to investigate the extent to which the beneficial effects of prolonged intermittent theta burst stimulation in the 6-hydroxydopamine model of experimental parkinsonism are based on modulation of adenosine-mediated signaling.Animals with unilateral 6-hydroxydopamine lesions underwent intermittent theta burst stimulation for 3 weeks and were tested for motor skills using the Rotarod test.Immunoblot,quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction,immunohistochemistry,and biochemical analysis of components of adenosine-mediated signaling were performed on the synaptosomal fraction of the lesioned caudate putamen.Prolonged intermittent theta burst stimulation improved motor symptoms in 6-hydroxydopamine-lesioned animals.A 6-hydroxydopamine lesion resulted in progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the caudate putamen.Treatment with intermittent theta burst stimulation began 7 days after the lesion,coinciding with the onset of motor symptoms.After treatment with prolonged intermittent theta burst stimulation,complete motor recovery was observed.This improvement was accompanied by downregulation of the e N/CD73-A_(2A)R pathway and a return to physiological levels of A_(1)R-adenosine deaminase 1 after 3 weeks of intermittent theta burst stimulation.Our results demonstrated that 6-hydroxydopamine-induced degeneration reduced the expression of A_(1)R and elevated the expression of A_(2A)R.Intermittent theta burst stimulation reversed these effects by restoring the abundances of A_(1)R and A_(2A)R to control levels.The shift in ARs expression likely restored the balance between dopamine-adenosine signaling,ultimately leading to the recovery of motor control.

Total flavonoids of Astragalus membranaceus protect against 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine-induced neurotoxicity in mice by inhibiting ferroptosis through SLC7A11/GPX-4 signaling pathway

Parkinson’s disease(PD)is a common neurodegenerative disorder with no cure.Astragalus membranaceus is used in Chinese culture as a food supplement to boost immunity.The present study aimed to explore the neuroprotective effects of total flavonoids extracted from A.membranaceus(TFA)and their protective mechanisms.TFA offered neuroprotection against 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine(MPTP)in the mouse model of Parkinsonism,by improving behavior performance in the gait analysis and pole test,and inhibiting the decline of tyrosine hydroxylase(TH)positive neurons and TH protein expression in substantia nigra of mice.TFA also prevented 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium(MPP+)induced neurotoxicity in SHSY5Y cells,by increasing GSH and GSH/GSSG ratio,and reducing reactive oxygen species.In addition,the neuroprotective effects of TFA were associated with its ability to restore MPTP/MPP+induced downregulation of SLC7A11 and glutathione peroxidase 4(GPX-4).In conclusion,we demonstrated that TFA exerted significant neuroprotection against MPTP/MPP+induced neurodegeneration by inhibiting ferroptosis through the regulation of SLC7A11/GPX-4 axis,suggesting the use of TFA as a possible food supplement in the prevention of PD.

Aszonapyrone A Isolated from Neosartorya spinosa IFM 47025 Inhibits the NF-κB Signaling Pathway Activated by Expression of the Ependymoma-Causing Fusion Protein ZFTA-RELA

Ependymoma is a rare and chemotherapy-resistant brain tumor, which has resulted in a delay in the development of drugs to treat it. A subclass of supratentorial ependymomas (ST-EPN), designated ST-EPN-zinc finger-translocation-associated (ZFTA, ST-EPN-ZFTA), exhibits the expression of a fusion protein comprising ZFTA and v-rel reticuloendotheliosis viral oncogene homolog A (RELA), an effector transcription factor of the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathway (ZFTA-RELA). The expression of ZFTA-RELA results in the hyperactivation of the oncogenic NF-κB signaling pathway, which ultimately leads to the development of ST-EPN-ZFTA. To identify inhibitors of the NF-κB signaling pathway activated by the expression of ZFTA-RELA, we used a doxycycline-inducible ZFTA-RELA-expressing NF-κB reporter cell line and found that extracts of the fungus Neosartorya spinosa IFM 47025 exhibited NF-κB inhibitory activity. We identified eight compounds [aszonapyrone A (2), sartorypyrone A (3), epiheveadride (4), acetylaszonalenin (5), (R)-benzodiazepinedione (6), aszonalenin (7), sartorypyrone E (8) and (Z, Z)-N,N’-(1,2-bis[(4-methoxyphenyl)methylene]-1,2-ethanediyl)bis-formamide (9)] from N. spinosa IFM 47025 culture extract using a variety of chromatographic techniques. The structures of these compounds were identified through the analysis of various instrumental data (1D, 2D-NMR, MS, and optical rotation). The NF-κB responsive reporter assay indicated that compounds 2, 3, 5, 7, and 9 exhibited inhibitory activity. We further evaluated the inhibitory activity of these compounds against the expression of endogenous NF-κB responsive genes (CCND1, L1CAM, ICAM1, and TNF) and found that compound 2 showed significant inhibitory activity. Further studies are required to elucidate the mechanism of action of compound 2, which may serve as a lead compound for the development of a novel therapy for ST-EPN-ZFTA.

YTE-17 inhibits colonic carcinogenesis by resetting antitumor immune response via Wnt5a/JNK mediated metabolic signaling

The density and composition of lymphocytes infiltrating colon tumors serve as predictive factors for the clinical outcome of colon cancer.Our previous studies highlighted the potent anti-cancer properties of the principal compounds found in Garcinia yunnanensis(YTE-17),attributing these effects to the regu-lation of multiple signaling pathways.However,knowledge regarding the mechanism and effect of YTE-17 in the prevention of colorectal cancer is limited.In this study,we conducted isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification(iTRAQ)analysis on intestinal epithelial cells(IECs)exposed YTE-17,both in vitro and in vivo,revealing a significant inhibition of the Wnt family member 5a(Wnt5a)/c-Jun N-terminal kinase(JNK)signaling pathway.Subsequently,we elucidated the influence and mechanism of YTE-17 on the tumor microenvironment(TME),specifically focusing on macrophage-mediated T helper 17(Th17)cell induction in a colitis-associated cancer(CAC)model with Wnt5a deletion.Additionally,we performed the single-cell RNA sequencing(scRNA-seq)on the colonic tissue from the Wnt5a-deleted CAC model to characterize the composition,lineage,and functional status of immune mesenchymal cells during different stages of colorectal cancer(CRC)progression.Remarkably,our findings demon-strate a significant reduction in M2 macrophage polarization and Th17 cell phenotype upon treatment with YTE-17,leading to the restoration of regulatory T(Treg)/Th17 cell balance in azoxymethane(AOM)/dextran sodium sulfate(DSS)model.Furthermore,we also confirmed that YTE-17 effectively inhibited the glycolysis of Th17 cells in both direct and indirect co-culture systems with M2 macrophages.Notably,our study shed light on potential mechanisms linking the non-canonical Wnt5a/JNK signaling pathway and well-established canonical b-catenin oncogenic pathway in vivo.Specifically,we proposed that Wnt5a/JNK signaling activity in IECs promotes the development of cancer stem cells with b-catenin activity within the TME,involving macrophages and T cells.In summary,our study undergoes the po-tential of YTE-17 as a preventive strategy against CRC development by addressing the imbalance with the immune microenvironment,thereby mitigating the risk of malignancies.

STAT3-Dependent Effects of Polymeric Immunoglobulin Receptor in Regulating Interleukin-17 Signaling and Preventing Autoimmune Hepatitis

One-third of patients with autoimmune hepatitis(AIH)have cirrhosis at the time of diagnosis.The relevance of these variables,although unknown,is believed to be critical in AIH because of suspected interactions between the gut microbiome and genetic factors.Dysbiosis of the gut flora and elevated polymeric immunoglobulin receptor(pIgR)levels have been observed in both patients and mouse models.Moreover,there is a direct relationship between pIgR expression and transaminase levels in patients with AIH.In this study,we aimed to explore how pIgR influences the secretion of regenerating islet-derived 3 beta(Reg3b)and the flora composition in AIH using in vivo experiments involving patients with AIH and a concanavalin A-induced mouse model of AIH.Reg3b expression was reduced in pIgR gene(Pigr)-knockout mice compared to that in wild-type mice,leading to increased microbiota disruption.Conversely,exogenous pIgR supplementation increased Reg3b expression and maintained microbiota homeostasis.RNA sequencing revealed the participation of the interleukin(IL)-17 signaling pathway in the regulation of Reg3b through pIgR.Furthermore,the introduction of external pIgR could not restore the imbalance in gut microbiota in AIH,and the decrease in Reg3b expression was not apparent following the inhibition of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3(STAT3).In this study,pIgR facilitated the upregulation of Reg3b via the STAT3 pathway,which plays a crucial role in preserving the balance of the intestinal microbiota in AIH.Through this research,we discovered new molecular targets that can be used for the diagnosis and treatment of AIH.

血清Nox2、ATG7水平对新生儿窒息心肌损伤的评估价值

目的探讨自噬相关基因-7(ATG7)、烟酰胺腺嘌呤二核苷酸磷酸氧化酶2(Nox2)在新生儿窒息病儿血清中的表达及早期诊断价值。方法选取2019年1月至2021年12月在郑州大学第三附属医院产科分娩的75例新生儿窒息病儿为研究组,根据是否合并心肌损伤将病儿分为窒息心肌损伤组31例,窒息非心肌损伤组44例。同期选择50例健康足月新生儿为对照组。收集一般资料,采用酶联免疫吸附测定(ELISA)测量血清ATG7水平,采用蛋白质印迹法检测Nox2水平,以Nox2/β肌动蛋白的灰度比值为Nox2表达量;采用Pearson法分析ATG7、Nox2表达的相关性及与各指标的相关性;利用受试者操作特征曲线(ROC曲线)评价Nox2、ATG7水平对新生儿窒息心肌损伤的诊断价值。结果与对照组[0.26±0.06、(4.83±0.61)ng/L]比较,新生儿窒息病儿血清Nox2(0.65±0.09)、ATG7[(21.04±3.66)ng/L]表达水平升高,且窒息心肌损伤组[0.85±0.11、(24.23±3.98)ng/L]病儿血清中Nox2、ATG7水平高于窒息非心肌损伤组[0.51±0.08、(18.80±3.43)ng/L](P<0.05);窒息心肌损伤病儿血清中Nox2、ATG7表达呈显著正相关(r=0.57,P<0.05);病儿血清中Nox2和ATG7表达与肌酸激酶同工酶(CK-MB)、缺血修饰白蛋白(IMA)、超敏C-反应蛋白(hs-CRP)、氨基末端脑钠肽前体(NT-ProBNP)、肌钙蛋白I(cTnI)、肌红蛋白表达均呈正相关(P<0.05);ROC曲线结果显示,血清Nox2、ATG7水平预测新生儿窒息合并心肌损伤的曲线下面积(AUC)及其95%CI分别为0.91(0.82,0.96)、0.89(0.80,0.95),对应的灵敏度分别为83.87%、87.10%,特异度分别为84.09%、75.00%,二者联合预测的AUC及其95%CI为0.92(0.84,0.97),灵敏度为90.32%,特异度为81.82%。结论窒息心肌损伤病儿血清中Nox2、ATG7表达均上调,二者联合检测对窒息心肌损伤有一定的诊断价值。

LAMOST的“Unknown”光谱分类研究:ODS-YOLOv7模型

天体识别是天文新发现和深入研究天体的基础。在LAMOST DR8 v1.0发布的低分辨率光谱数据中有约53万条因没有类别标签而被命名为“Unknown”的光谱,其中有88.56%的光谱信噪比在0~10之间,对这批光谱的研究分析将增加LAMOST的有效数据产出。该研究为“Unknown”光谱的分类设计了一种ODS-YOLOv7模型。它是一种端到端的类别预测模型,通过添加一维卷积注意力模块以提高光谱识别能力。在经过一批信噪比在0~10之间的已知类别光谱训练后,ODS-YOLOv7可以学习到低信噪比光谱的有效特征,进而实现对“Unknown”光谱的类别预测。实验表明,该模型在已知类别标记的低信噪比恒星、星系、类星体的光谱识别中,F1-score分别为0.98、0.95、0.95;同时在与传统算法KNN、RF、DT、SVM和深度学习算法1D CNN、1DSSCNN、ResNet、DenseNet、VIT对比实验中取得相对最好的效果。实验结果还给出了ODS-YOLOv7模型对DR8 v1.0中信噪比在0~10的“Unknown”光谱预测置信度分布,在预测类别为恒星、星系、类星体任务中,有92%的分类置信度在60%以上。为保证模型输出质量,本文只选取分类置信度大于99%的光谱类别作为输出结果。以此为依据,在DR8 v1.0和DR9 v0发布的全部“Unknown”光谱中分别有37.19%和47.03%被ODS-YOLOv7模型预测出类别。此外,还增加人工认证以检验该模型预测的正确性。为提升模型的可解释性,参照了二维图像特征可视化的Grad-CAM方法,将其改进为适合于可视化一维光谱数据特征的算法。其结果表明该模型可自动关注到不同的分类特征,使得该模型非常适用于低信噪比“Unknown”光谱的类别预测。

大语言模型驱动的交互式建筑设计新范式——基于Rhino7的概念验证

随着社会对建筑设计质量要求越来越高,建筑设计软件也变得越来越专业和复杂。现在的设计软件不仅学习成本高,而且交互模式复杂。大语言模型(LLM)的最新突破使计算机清晰地理解人类自然语言指令,并准确生成代码语言具有可行性,有望为人与软件的交互范式提供新思路。因此,本文提出了LLM驱动的交互式建筑设计新范式--将设计师通过多次键鼠操作与设计软件交互转变为LLM根据设计师自然语言指令生成并执行API调用脚本的方式;提出了技术路线并验证了其在建筑设计场景落地的可能性。该技术路线包括:①LLM根据用户指令从API库中搜索与任务相关的API;②LLM基于指令和候选API摘要信息编写程序脚本并运行;③LLM根据来自软件环境、用户等反馈改进优化所编写的程序脚本。通过Rhino7设计软件、GPT-4和CodeLlaMa完成多个设计任务,测试当前LLM是否具备执行该技术路线各关键环节的能力。测试结果不仅证明了LLM驱动的交互式设计范式在建筑设计场景已初具落地前景,也为技术落地提供经验和建议。该设计范式的落地可以降低软件的使用门槛和学习成本,提高设计师工作效率;有望在未来的建筑设计软件中发挥重要作用。

血清MG7-Ag水平、组织Notch-3水平对胃癌的诊断价值

目的分析血清胃癌相关抗原7(MG7-Ag)水平、组织神经源位点缺口同源蛋白3(Notch-3)水平对胃癌的诊断价值。方法回顾性分析2023年1月至12月解放军总医院第二医学中心收治的23例胃癌患者(胃癌组)及50例胃部良性病变者(良性病变组)的临床资料,统计2组患者的基线资料及血清MG7-Ag水平、组织Notch-3水平,分析胃癌的影响因素及血清MG7-Ag水平、组织Notch-3水平对胃癌的诊断效能;并比较不同胃癌患者的血清MG7-Ag水平、组织Notch-3水平,分析血清MG7-Ag水平、组织Notch-3水平与胃癌病理参数(肿瘤直径、TNM分期、血管浸润程度、淋巴结转移)的关系。结果胃癌组患者的血清胃蛋白酶原Ⅰ(PG1)水平低于良性病变组,胃泌素、癌胚抗原(CEA)、MG7-Ag及组织Notch-3水平均高于良性病变组(P<0.05),多因素Logistic回归分析可得出:胃泌素(95%CI:1.033~1.112)、CEA(95%CI:1.882~5.076)、MG7-Ag(95%CI:1.649~4.443)、Notch-3(95%CI:1.639~4.219)为胃癌的危险因素,PG1(95%CI:0.880~0.984)为胃癌的保护因素(P<0.05)。受试者工作特征曲线(ROC)分析结果显示血清MG7-Ag水平、组织Notch-3水平及联合诊断胃癌的敏感度分别为73.90%、78.30%、91.30%,特异度分别为86.00%、82.00%、80.00%;且联合诊断的AUC值为0.958,显著高于单一指标(P<0.05)。直径>3 cm、Ⅲ~Ⅳ级、有血管浸润及淋巴结转移的胃癌患者血清MG7-Ag水平、组织Notch-3水平高于直径≤3 cm、Ⅰ~Ⅱ级、无血管浸润及淋巴结转移者(P<0.05)。Pearson相关分析结果显示血清MG7-Ag水平、组织Notch-3水平与患者的肿瘤直径、TNM分期、血管浸润程度、淋巴结转移呈正相关关系(P<0.05)。结论胃癌患者的血清MG7-Ag水平、组织Notch-3水平均升高,其水平与肿瘤直径、TNM分期、血管浸润程度、淋巴结转移呈正相关关系,且两者联合对胃癌具有较高的诊断价值。

PHD17 acts as a target of miR1320 to negatively control cold tolerance via JA-activated signaling in rice

Plant Homeo Domain(PHD)proteins are involved in diverse biological processes during plant growth.However,the regulation of PHD genes on rice cold stress response remains largely unknown.Here,we reported that PHD17 negatively regulated cold tolerance in rice seedlings as a cleavage target of miR1320.PHD17 expression was greatly induced by cold stress,and was down-regulated by miR1320 overexpression and up-regulated by miR1320 knockdown.Through 5'RACE and dual luciferase assays,we found that miR1320 targeted and cleaved the 3'UTR region of PHD17.PHD17 was a nuclearlocalized protein and acted as a transcriptional activator in yeast.PHD17 overexpression reduced cold tolerance of rice seedlings,while knockout of PHD17 increased cold tolerance,partially via the CBF cold signaling.By combining transcriptomic and physiological analyses,we demonstrated that PHD17 modulated ROS homeostasis and flavonoid accumulation under cold stress.K-means clustering analysis revealed that differentially expressed genes in PHD17 transgenic lines were significantly enriched in the jasmonic acid(JA)biosynthesis pathway,and expression of JA biosynthesis and signaling genes was verified to be affected by PHD17.Cold stress tests applied with MeJA or IBU(JA synthesis inhibitor)further suggested the involvement of PHD17 in JA-mediated cold signaling.Taken together,our results suggest that PHD17 acts downstream of miR1320 and negatively regulates cold tolerance of rice seedlings through JA-mediated signaling pathway.

Hypoglycemic mechanism of Tegillarca granosa polysaccharides on type 2 diabetic mice by altering gut microbiota and regulating the PI3K-akt signaling pathwaye

Type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)is a complex metabolic disease threatening human health.We investigated the effects of Tegillarca granosa polysaccharide(TGP)and determined its potential mechanisms in a mouse model of T2DM established through a high-fat diet and streptozotocin.TGP(5.1×10^(3) Da)was composed of mannose,glucosamine,rhamnose,glucuronic acid,galactosamine,glucose,galactose,xylose,and fucose.It could significantly alleviate weight loss,reduce fasting blood glucose levels,reverse dyslipidemia,reduce liver damage from oxidative stress,and improve insulin sensitivity.RT-PCR and Western blotting indicated that TGP could activate the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/protein kinase B signaling pathway to regulate disorders in glucolipid metabolism and improve insulin resistance.TGP increased the abundance of Allobaculum,Akkermansia,and Bifidobacterium,restored the microbiota abundance in the intestinal tracts of mice with T2DM,and promoted short-chain fatty acid production.This study provides new insights into the antidiabetic effects of TGP and highlights its potential as a natural hypoglycemic nutraceutical.

α7烟碱型乙酰胆碱受体与阿尔茨海默病的关系

背景:α7烟碱型乙酰胆碱受体在大脑皮质和海马高度表达,并在阿尔茨海默病的病理发展过程中起重要调控作用,是阿尔茨海默病治疗的潜在靶点。目的:总结α7烟碱型乙酰胆碱受体和阿尔茨海默病的密切关系和相互作用机制。方法:检索中国知网、PubMed数据库中相关文献,中文检索词为“α7烟碱型乙酰胆碱受体,阿尔茨海默病,β-淀粉样蛋白,激动剂,正变构调节剂,拮抗剂”;英文检索词为“alpha 7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor,Alzheimer’s disease,beta amyloid protein,agonist,positive allosteric modulator,antagonist”,文献检索时限为各数据库建库至2024年7月,依据入选标准对检索结果进行录用或排除,最终纳入符合标准的83篇文献进行综述。结果与结论:α7烟碱型乙酰胆碱受体通过与β-淀粉样蛋白的相互作用减轻β-淀粉样蛋白的神经毒性,如促进阿尔茨海默病的突触可塑性和胆碱能突触的快速传递、减轻β-淀粉样蛋白诱导的神经中枢炎症反应、抵抗神经细胞凋亡,从而对阿尔茨海默病患者的脑具有保护作用等。α7烟碱型乙酰胆碱受体作为阿尔茨海默病治疗靶标具有很大的潜能,但是又存在一系列问题有待解决,比如α7烟碱型乙酰胆碱受体的脱敏性、适度活性稳定性及基因多态性等问题。筛选高特异、安全性和以α7烟碱型乙酰胆碱受体为核心的多靶点结合作用的药物,将成为未来阿尔茨海默病治疗研究的一个方向。

Exogenous bone morphogenetic protein-7 reduces hepatic fibrosis inSchistosoma japonicum-infected micevia transforming growth factor-β/Smad signaling

AIM: To investigate the antifibrotic effects of bone morphogenetic protein-7 (BMP-7) on Schistosoma japonicum (S. japonicum )-induced hepatic fibrosis in BALB/C mice. METHODS: Sixty BALB/C mice were randomly divided into three groups, including a control group (group A, n = 20), model group (group B, n = 20) and BMP-7 treated group (group C, n = 20). The mice in group B and group C were abdominally infected with S. japonicum cercariae to induce a schistosomal hepatic fibrosis model. The mice in group C were administered human recombinant BMP-7. Liver samples were extracted from mice sacrificed at 9 and 15 wk after modeling. Hepatic histopathological changes were assessed using Masson's staining. Transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1), alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), phosphorylated Smad2/3 (pSmad2/3) and Smad7 protein levels and localization were measured by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry, respectively, and their mRNA expressions were detected by reverse transcriptionpolymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). RESULTS: The schistosomal hepatic fibrosis mouse model was successfully established, as the livers of mice in group B and group C showed varying degrees of typical schistosomal hepatopathologic changes such as egg granuloma and collagen deposition. The degree of collagen deposition in group C was higher than that in group A (week 9: 22.95±6.66vs 2.02±0.76; week 15: 12.84±4.36 vs 1.74±0.80; P<0.05), but significantly lower than that in group B (week 9: 22.95±6.66 vs 34.43±6.96; week 15: 12.84±4.36 vs 18.90±5.07;P<0.05) at both time points. According to immunohistochemistry data, the expressions of α-SMA, TGF-β1 and pSmad2/3 protein in group C were higher than those in group A (α-SMA: week 9: 21.24±5.73 vs 0.33±0.20; week 15: 12.42±4.88 vs 0.34±0.27; TGF-β1: week 9: 37.00±13.74 vs 3.73±2.14; week 15: 16.71±9.80 vs 3.08±2.35; pSmad2/3: week 9: 12.92±4.81 vs 0.83±0.48; week 15: 7.87±4.09 vs 0.90±0.45; P<0.05), but significantly lower than those in group B (α-SMA: week 9: 21.24±5.73 vs 34.39±5.74; week 15: 12.42±4.88 vs 25.90±7.01; TGF-β1: week 9: 37.00±13.74 vs 55.66±14.88; week 15: 16.71±9.80 vs 37.10±12.51; pSmad2/3: week 9: 12.92±4.81 vs 19.41±6.87; week 15: 7.87±4.09vs 13.00±4.98;P<0.05) at both time points; the expression of Smad7 protein in group B was higher than that in group A and group C at week 9 (8.46±3.95 vs 1.00±0.40 and 8.46±3.95 vs 0.77±0.42; P<0.05), while there were no differences in Smad7 expression between the three groups at week 15 (1.09±0.38 vs 0.97±0.42 vs 0.89±0.39; P>0.05). Although minor discrepancies were observed, the results of RT-PCR and Western blotting were mainly consistentwith the immunohistochemical results. CONCLUSION: Exogenous BMP-7 significantly decreased the degree of hepatic fibrosis in both the acute and chronic stages of hepato-schistosomiasis, and the regulatory mechanism may involve the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway.

Fanlian Huazhuo Formula alleviates high-fat diet-induced nonalcoholic fatty liver disease by modulating autophagy and lipid synthesis signaling pathway

BACKGROUND Fanlian Huazhuo Formula(FLHZF)has the functions of invigorating spleen and resolving phlegm,clearing heat and purging turbidity.It has been identified to have therapeutic effects on type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)in clinical application.Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD)is frequently diagnosed in patients with T2DM.However,the therapeutic potential of FLHZF on NAFLD and the underlying mechanisms need further investigation.AIM To elucidate the effects of FLHZF on NAFLD and explore the underlying hepatoprotective mechanisms in vivo and in vitro.METHODS HepG2 cells were treated with free fatty acid for 24 hours to induce lipid accumulation cell model.Subsequently,experiments were conducted with the different concentrations of freeze-dried powder of FLHZF for 24 hours.C57BL/6 mice were fed a high-fat diet for 8-week to establish a mouse model of NAFLD,and then treated with the different concentrations of FLHZF for 10 weeks.RESULTS FLHZF had therapeutic potential against lipid accumulation and abnormal changes in biochemical indicators in vivo and in vitro.Further experiments verified that FLHZF alleviated abnormal lipid metabolism might by reducing oxidative stress,regulating the AMPKα/SREBP-1C signaling pathway,activating autophagy,and inhibiting hepatocyte apoptosis.CONCLUSION FLHZF alleviates abnormal lipid metabolism in NAFLD models by regulating reactive oxygen species,autophagy,apoptosis,and lipid synthesis signaling pathways,indicating its potential for clinical application in NAFLD.

Downregulation of LncRNAH19 and MiR-675 Promotes Migration and Invasion of Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells through AKT/GSK-3β/Cdc25A Signaling Pathway

Summary： LncRNAH19 has been implicated as having both oncogenic and tumor suppression properties in cancer. LncRNAH19 transcripts also serve as a precursor for miR-675. However, it is unknown whether LncRNAH19 and miR-675 are involved in the migration and invasion of hepatocellular carcinoma （HCC） cells. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect and mechanism of LncRNAH19 and miR-675 on migration and invasion of HCC cells. The migration and invasion of HCC cells were measured by Transwell migration and invasion assays after transfection of HCC cells with miR-675 inhibitors and LncRNAH19siRNA. The levels of LncRNAH19 and miR-675 were detected by quantitative reverse transcriptase real-time polymerase chain reaction （qRT-PCR）, and the protein expression of AKT, GSK-3[3 and Cdc25A by Western blotting analysis. The expression levels of LncRNAHI9 and miR-675 were higher in MHCC-97H cells than in L02, Huh-7 and HepG2 cells. Transwell migration assay revealed that the miR-675 inhibitor and LncRNAH19siRNA could significantly increase the migration of HCC cells （P〈0.01） as compared with the control group. Transwell invasion assay demonstrated that the miR-675 inhibitor and LncRNAH19siRNA could significantly increase the invasion of HCC cells （P〈0.01） as compared with the control group. Western blotting analy- sis showed that the expression levels of AKT and Cdc25A were significantly increased （P〈0.05）, and the expression level of GSK-313 was significantly decreased （P〈0.05） after treatment with miR-675 inhibitors and LncRNAH19siRNA as compared with the control group. These findings suggested that inhibition of LncRNAH 19 and miR-675 expression can promote migration and invasion of HCC cells via AKT/GSK-3[3/Cdc25A signaling pathway.

CCR7/p-ERK1/2/VEGF signaling promotes retinal neovascularization in a mouse model of oxygen-induced retinopathy

AIM： To investigate the role of CCR7/p-ERKI/2/VEGF signaling in the mouse model of oxygen-induced retinopathy （OIR）. METHODS： Neonatal C57BL/6J mice were evenly randomized into four groups： normoxia, OIR, OIR control （treated with scramble siRNA）, and OIR treated （treated with CCR7 siRNA）. Normoxia group was not specially handled. Postnatal day 7 （P7） mice in the OIR group were exposed to 75%±5% oxygen for 5d （P7-P12） and then maintained under normoxic conditions for 5d （P12-P17）. Mice in the OIR control and OIR treated groups were given injections of scramble or CCR7 siRNA plasmid on P12 before returning to normoxic conditions for 5d （P12-P17）. Retina samples were collected from all mice on P17, stained with adenosine diphosphatase （ADPase）, and retinal neovascularization （RNV） was assessed. Retinas were also stained with hematoxylin and eosin （H＆E） for RNV quantitation. The distribution and expression of CCR7, p-ERKI/2 and vas- cular endothelial growth factor （VEGF） were assessed via immunohistochemistry, Western blot, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction （qRT-PCR）. RESULTS： High oxygen promoted retinal neovascularization （P〈0.05） and increased the number of endothelial nuclei in new vessels extending from the retina to the vitreous body; CCR7 promoted this process （P〈0.05）. CCR7 and VEGF mRNA were expressed at higher levels in the OIR and OIR control groups than in the normoxia and OIR treated groups. CCR7, p-ERK1/2, and VEGF protein were expressed in the retinas of mice in the OIR and OIR control groups. Intravitreal injection of CCR7 siRNA significantly reduced CCR7, p-ERKI/2, and VEGF expression in the OIR mouse model （all P〈0.05）. CCR7 significantly enhancedthe neovascularization and non-perfusion areas in the OIR group （P〈0,05）, CCR7 siRNA significantly reduced levels of p-ERK1/2 and VEGF as compared to OIR controls （P〈0.05）. CONCLUSION： These results suggest that CCR7/p-ERK I/2NEGF signaling plays an important role in OIR, CCR7 may be a potential target for the prevention and treatment of retinopathy of prematurity.

PKHD1L1 blocks the malignant behavior of lung adenocarcinoma cells and restricts tumor growth by regulating CBX7

Objective:To explore the role of polycystic kidney and hepatic disease 1-like 1(PKHD1L1)in lung adenocarcinoma(LUAD).Methods:Bioinformatics tools were utilized to examine the clinical profile of PKHD1L1 and chromobox protein homolog 7(CBX7)in LUAD.The Cell Counting Kit-8,colony formation,terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling,Transwell,and wound-healing assays were carried out to assess the proliferative,apoptotic,invasive,and migrative capacities of the cells.Furthermore,the interrelation between PKHD1L1 and CBX7 was validated using a co-immunoprecipitation assay.A LUAD mice model was constructed by subcutaneous injection of A549 cells.Finally,immunohistochemical staining was performed to evaluate CBX7 and Ki67 expression.Results:PKHD1L1 was downregulated in LUAD and predicted dismal outcomes in patients with LUAD.PKHD1L1 upregulation repressed the proliferative,invasive,and migrative capabilities of A549 cells and exacerbated the apoptotic rate.Additionally,PKHD1L1 may bind to CBX7 and positively modulate CBX7 expression.CBX7 deletion partly abrogated the effects of PKHD1L1 upregulation on the cellular biological activities in A549 cells.Furthermore,the PKHD1L1/CBX7 axis regulates the Hippo signaling pathway in A549 cells.PKHD1L1 restricted tumor growth in LUAD xenograft mice;this was partly abolished by CBX7 knockdown.Conclusion:PKHD1L1 can hinder LUAD progression by regulating CBX7-mediated Hippo signaling.

IL-37b suppresses epithelial mesenchymal transition in hepatocellular carcinoma by inhibiting IL-6/STAT3 signaling

Background: Interleukin-37 b(IL-37 b), a vital negative regulator of the innate immune system, has been reported to be a tumor inhibitor in different type of cancers. However, little is known about the relationship between IL-37 b and hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC). The present study aimed to investigate the potential roles of IL-37 b in HCC progression. Methods: Subjects( n = 237) were recruited, and serum IL-37 b was measured using ELISA. The tumorsuppressive capacity and underlying mechanisms of IL-37 b in HCC were investigated in vitro and in vivo. Results: Compared to healthy controls, serum IL-37 b levels were elevated in chronic hepatitis B(CHB) patients but decreased significantly in HBV-HCC patients, especially for those with portal venous tumor thrombus. Low level serum IL-37 b in HBV-HCC patients correlated with high HCC stage and poor overall survival and disease-free survival. In vitro and in vivo, recombinant human IL-37 b inhibited proliferation and metastasis in HCC cells. Furthermore, IL-37 b inhibited epithelial mesenchymal transition in HCC cells in vitro by downregulating IL-6, pSTAT3(Y705), N-cadherin, and vimentin expression and by upregulating E-cadherin expression. These effects were partially reversed by transfection of adenovirus encoding human IL-6. Conclusions: IL-37 b inhibits HCC growth, metastasis and epithelial mesenchymal transition by regulating IL-6/STAT3 signaling. Serum IL-37 b may be a biomarker for HBV-HCC and its staging.

Antibacterial mechanism of kojic acid and tea polyphenols against Escherichia coli O157:H7 through transcriptomic analysis

Escherichia coli O157:H7 is one of the major foodborne pathogenic bacterial that cause infectious diseases in humans.The previous found that a combination of kojic acid and tea polyphenols exhibited better activity against E.coli O157:H7 than using either alone.This study aimed to explore responses underlying the antibacterial mechanisms of kojic acid and tea polyphenols from the gene level.The functional enrichment analysis by comparing kojic acid and tea polyphenols individually or synergistically against E.coli O157:H7 found that acid resistance systems in kojic acid were activated,and the cell membrane and genomic DNA were destructed in the cells,resulting in“oxygen starvation”.The oxidative stress response triggered by tea polyphenols inhibited both sulfur uptake and the synthesis of ATP,which affected the bacteria's life metabolic process.Interestingly,we found that kojic acid combined with tea polyphenols hindered the uptake of iron that played an essential role in the synthesis of DNA,respiration,tricarboxylic acid cycle.The results suggested that the iron uptake pathways may represent a novel approach for kojic acid and tea polyphenols synergistically against E.coli O157:H7 and provided a theoretical basis for bacterial pathogen control in the food industry.