Electroacupuncture improves myocardial fibrosis in heart failure rats by attenuating ECM collagen deposition through modulation of TGF-β1/Smads signaling pathway

Background: To explore the effects of electroacupuncture on cardiac function and myocardial fibrosis in rat models of heart failure, and to elucidate the underlying mechanism of electroacupuncture in heart failure treatment. Methods: Healthy male Sprague-Dawley rats were allocated into three groups: Sham group, Model group, and electroacupuncture (Model + EA) group, with each group comprising 8 rats. The model underwent a procedure involving the ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery to induce a model of heart failure. The Model + EA group was used for 7 consecutive days for electroacupuncture of bilateral Shenmen (HT7) and Tongli (HT5), once a day for 30 min each time. Left ventricular parameters in rats were assessed using a small-animal ultrasound machine to analyze changes in left ventricular end-diastolic volume, left ventricular end-systolic volume, left ventricular ejection fraction, and left ventricular fractional shortening. Serum interleukin-1β (IL-1β), cardiac troponin (cTn), and N-terminal brain natriuretic peptide precursor levels were measured using ELISA. Histopathological changes in rat myocardium were observed through HE staining, while collagen deposition in rat myocardial tissue was assessed using the Masson staining method. Picro sirius red staining, immunohistochemical staining, and RT-qPCR were utilized to distinguish between the various types of collagen deposition. The expression level of TGF-β1 and SMAD2/3/4/7 mRNA in rat myocardial tissues was determined using RT-qPCR. Additionally, western blot analysis was conducted to assess the protein expression levels of TGF-β1, SMAD3/7, and p-SMAD3 in rat myocardial tissues. Results: Compared with the Sham group, the left ventricular ejection fraction and left ventricular fractional shortening values of the Model group were significantly decreased (P < 0.01);the left ventricular end-diastolic volume and left ventricular end-systolic volume values were remarkably increased (P < 0.01);serum N-terminal brain natriuretic peptide precursor content was increased (P < 0.01);serum IL-1β and cTn levels were increased (P < 0.01);myocardial collagen volume fraction were increased (P < 0.01);and those of the expression of TGF-β1 and SMAD2/3/4 mRNA was increased (P < 0.01);the expression of SMAD7 mRNA was decreased (P < 0.01);the protein expression levels of TGF-β1, SMAD3, and p-Smad3 were increased (P < 0.01);the protein expression level of SMAD7 was decreased (P < 0.01) in the Model group. Compared to the Model group, the expression levels of the proteins TGF-β1, SMAD3, and p-Smad3 in myocardial tissue were found to be decreased (P < 0.01), and the expression level of the protein SMAD7 was found to be increased (P < 0.01) in the Model + EA group;the collagen volume fraction and deposition of type Ⅰ /Ⅲ collagen were decreased (P < 0.01) in the Model + EA group. Conclusion: Electroacupuncture alleviates myocardial fibrosis in rats with heart failure, and this effect is likely due to attributed to the modulation of the TGF-β1/Smads signaling pathway, which helps reduce collagen deposition in the extracellular matrix.

Berberine Attenuates Cigarette Smoke Extract-induced Airway Inflammation in Mice:Involvement of TGF-β1/Smads Signaling Pathway

Although several studies confirmed that berberine may attenuate airway inflammation in mice with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD),its underlying mechanisms were not clear until now.We aimed to establish an experiment mouse model for COPD and to investigate the effects of berberine on airway inflammation and its possible mechanism in COPD model mice induced by cigarette smoke extract(CSE).Twenty SPF C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into PBS control group,COPD model group,low-dose berberine group and high-dose berberine group,5 mice in each group.The neutrophils and macrophages were examined by Wright's staining.The levels of inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6 in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid(BALF)were detennined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.The expression levels of TGF-β1,Smad2 and Smad3 mRNA and proteins in lung tissues were respectively detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting.It was found that CSE increased the number of inflammation cells in BALF,elevated lung inflammation scores,and enhanced the TGF-β1/Smads signaling activity in mice.High-dose berberine restrained the alterations in the COPD mice induced by CSE.It was concluded that high-dose berberine ameliorated CSE-induced airway inflammation in COPD mice.TGF-β1/Smads signaling pathway might be involved in the mechanism.These findings suggested a therapeutic potential of high-dose berberine on the CSE-induced airway inflammation.

SIRT6通过TGF-β1/Smad信号通路调控瘢痕疙瘩成纤维细胞增殖、侵袭和胶原合成

目的 探讨沉默信息调节因子6(silent information regulator 6, SIRT6)对瘢痕疙瘩成纤维细胞增殖、侵袭和胶原合成的调控作用和分子机制。方法 收集瘢痕疙瘩和正常皮肤样本,采用实时定量PCR(real-time quantitative PCR,RT-qPCR)检测SIRT6 mRNA表达水平,采用Western blot检测SIRT6蛋白表达水平。采取组织块贴壁法从瘢痕疙瘩组织中分离养成纤维细胞。构建SIRT6重组腺病毒(adenovirus, Ad),感染瘢痕疙瘩成纤维细胞实现SIRT6过表达。将瘢痕疙瘩成纤维细胞分为空白对照组、Ad-NC组和Ad-SIRT6组。采用RT-qPCR检测SIRT6 mRNA表达水平。采用Western blot检测SIRT6、Ⅰ型胶原(collagen typeⅠ,ColⅠ)、转化生长因子-β1(transforming growth factor-β1,TGF-β1)和SMAD家族成员2/3(SMAD family member 2/3,Smad2/3)蛋白的表达水平。采用5-乙炔基-2′-脱氧尿苷(5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine, EdU)方法检测细胞增殖。采用Transwell实验检测细胞侵袭能力。结果 与正常皮肤组织比较,SIRT6在瘢痕疙瘩组织中表达水平显著降低(P<0.01)。与空白组和Ad-NC组比较,Ad-SIRT6组中SIRT6表达量显著升高,细胞增殖显著减少,细胞侵袭水平显著降低,ColⅠ、TGF-β1、p-Smad2/3蛋白表达量显著下降(均P<0.01)。结论 过表达SIRT6通过下调TGF-β1/Smad信号通路抑制瘢痕疙瘩成纤维细胞增殖、侵袭和胶原合成。

Calcitriol attenuates liver fibrosis through hepatitis C virus nonstructural protein 3-transactivated protein 1-mediated TGF β1/Smad3 and NF-κB signaling pathways

BACKGROUND Hepatic fibrosis is a serious condition,and the development of hepatic fibrosis can lead to a series of complications.However,the pathogenesis of hepatic fibrosis remains unclear,and effective therapy options are still lacking.Our group identified hepatitis C virus nonstructural protein 3-transactivated protein 1(NS3TP1) by suppressive subtractive hybridization and bioinformatics analysis,but its role in diseases including hepatic fibrosis remains undefined.Therefore,additional studies on the function of NS3TP1 in hepatic fibrosis are urgently needed to provide new targets for treatment.AIM To elucidate the mechanism of NS3TP1 in hepatic fibrosis and the regulatory effects of calcitriol on NS3TP1.METHODS Twenty-four male C57BL/6 mice were randomized and separated into three groups,comprising the normal,fibrosis,and calcitriol treatment groups,and liver fibrosis was modeled by carbon tetrachloride(CCl4).To evaluate the level of hepatic fibrosis in every group,serological and pathological examinations of the liver were conducted.TGF-β1 was administered to boost the in vitro cultivation of LX-2 cells.NS3TP1,α-smooth muscle actin(α-SMA),collagen I,and collagen Ⅲ in every group were examined using a Western blot and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction.The activity of the transforming growth factor beta 1(TGFβ1)/Smad3 and NF-κB signaling pathways in each group of cells transfected with pcDNA-NS3TP1 or siRNA-NS3TP1 was detected.The statistical analysis of the data was performed using the Student’s t test.RESULTS NS3TP1 promoted the activation,proliferation,and differentiation of hepatic stellate cells(HSCs)and enhanced hepatic fibrosis via the TGFβ1/Smad3 and NF-κB signaling pathways,as evidenced by the presence of α-SMA,collagen I,collagen Ⅲ,p-smad3,and p-p65 in LX-2 cells,which were upregulated after NS3TP1 overexpression and downregulated after NS3TP1 interference.The proliferation of HSCs was lowered after NS3TP1 interference and elevated after NS3TP1 overexpression,as shown by the luciferase assay.NS3TP1 inhibited the apoptosis of HSCs.Moreover,both Smad3 and p65 could bind to NS3TP1,and p65 increased the promoter activity of NS3TP1,while NS3TP1 increased the promoter activity of TGFβ1 receptor I,as indicated by coimmunoprecipitation and luciferase assay results.Both in vivo and in vitro,treatment with calcitriol dramatically reduced the expression of NS3TP1.Calcitriol therapy-controlled HSCs activation,proliferation,and differentiation and substantially suppressed CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis in mice.Furthermore,calcitriol modulated the activities of the above signaling pathways via downregulation of NS3TP1.CONCLUSION Our results suggest that calcitriol may be employed as an adjuvant therapy for hepatic fibrosis and that NS3TP1 is a unique,prospective therapeutic target in hepatic fibrosis.

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

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

Effect and Mechanism of Dicliptera chinensis Polysaccharide on miR-141/AMPK/SIRT1 Signaling Pathway in Rats with NAFLD

[Objectives]Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD)rat model was established by feeding high-fat and high-sugar fodder to rats,and the protective effect of Dicliptera chinensis polysaccharide(DCP)on NAFLD rats was studied to explore its potential mechanism.[Methods]45 SD rats were randomly divided into 4 groups:normal control group,model control group and DCP treatment groups(100 and 300 mg/kg).The rats in the normal control group were fed with ordinary fodder,and the rats in other groups were fed with high-fat and high-sugar diet for 14 weeks to establish NAFLD model.From the 9^(th)week,the rats in the DCP treatment groups were given different doses of DCP by intragastric administration(5 mL/kg)for 6 weeks.After the last intragastric administration,the rats fasted for 16 h,and the serum and liver of rats were collected for detection.Hematoxylin-eosin(HE)staining was conducted to observe the histopathological changes of rat liver,and alanine aminotransferase(ALT),aspartate aminotransferase(AST),superoxide dismutase(SOD),glutathione peroxidase(GSH-Px),malondialdehyde(MDA),triglyceride(TG),total cholesterol(TC),low density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-C),and high density lipoprotein cholesterol(HDL-C)were detected by biochemical method.Interleukin-6(IL-6),interleukin-1β(IL-1β),tumor necrosis factor(TNF-α)and micrornA-141(micro RNA-141)were detected by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction(RT-PCR).The expression of SIRT1 and adenosine 5'-monophosphate(AMP)-activated protein kinase(AMPK)in rat liver was detected by western blot.[Results]Compared with the model control group,the inflammatory damage and steatodegeneration of rats in the DCP groups were relieved to varying degrees,and the number of lipid vacuoles significantly reduced.The ALT,AST,TC,TG and LDL-C content in the serum and MDA content in the liver tissue decreased to varying degrees,while the HDL-C,SOD and GSH-Px content increased.The expression of SIRT1 and AMPK increased,while the expression of miR-141,TNF-α,IL-6 and IL-1βdeclined,and the DCP 300 mg/kg treatment group had better improvement effect.[Conclusions]DCP had a certain protective effect on NAFLD rats,which may be related to the regulation of miR-141/AMPK/SIRT1 signaling pathway.

Xinfuli Granule improves post-myocardial infarction ventricular remodelingand myocardial fibrosis in rats by regulating TGF-β/Smads signaling pathway

Recent clinical and experimental studies have confirmed the effects of Xinfuli Granule (XG), a compound Chinese medicine in the prevention and treatment of heart failure (HF). This study aimed to investigate the effects and the mechanisms of XG on ventricular reconstruction in rats with acute myocardial infarction (AMI).MethodsSprague-Dawley rats were subjected to left anterior descending branch ligation. The rats that survived 24 h were randomly assigned to five groups: medium-dose of XG group (MI+XGM), high-dose of XG group (MI+XGH), carvedilol group (MI+C), medium-dose of XG + carvedilol group (MI+C+XGM). Fourteen rats underwent identical surgical procedures without artery ligation, serving as sham controls. At 28 days, left ventricular weight to body weight (LVW/BW) and heart weight to body weight (HW/BW) were calculated; left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), left ventricular shortening fraction (LVFS), left ventricular internal diameter at systole (LVIDS) were measured by ultrasound; HE staining, Masson staining, and Sirius red staining were used to assess the myocardial pathological and physiological changes as well as myocardial fibrosis area and non-infarct zone I/III collagen ratio. Expression of Smad3 were detected and analyzed by Western blot, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. P-Smad3, Smad2 and Smad7 in the TGF-β/Smads signaling pathway were also analyzed by Western blot.ResultsThe LVIDS (P < 0.01), HW/BW (P < 0.05), type I/III collagen ratio (P < 0.01) and myocardial collagen (P < 0.01) decreased significantly while the LVW/BW, LVFS (P < 0.05) increased significantly in MI+XGM group as compared with those in other groups. The expression of key signal molecules of the TGF-β/Smads signaling pathway, including Smad3, P-Smad3 and Smad2 protein were decreased, while the expression of Smad7 increased in both XG and carvedilol treatment groups as compared to those of the MI group (all P < 0.01). Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence further confirmed the down-regulated Smad3 expression.ConclusionXG can improve ventricular reconstruction and inhibit myocardial fibrosis in rats with AMI by regulating TGF-β/Smads signaling pathway.

MiR-146a-5p targeting SMAD4 and TRAF6 inhibits adipogenensis through TGF-β and AKT/mTORC1 signal pathways in porcine intramuscular preadipocytes

Background: Intramuscular fat(IMF) content is a vital parameter for assessing pork quality. Increasing evidence has shown that microRNAs(miRNAs) play an important role in regulating porcine IMF deposition. Here, a novel miRNA implicated in porcine IMF adipogenesis was found, and its effect and regulatory mechanism were further explored with respect to intramuscular preadipocyte proliferation and differentiation.Results: By porcine adipose tissue miRNA sequencing analysis, we found that miR-146a-5p is a potential regulator of porcine IMF adipogenesis. Further studies showed that miR-146a-5p mimics inhibited porcine intramuscular preadipocyte proliferation and differentiation, while the miR-146a-5p inhibitor promoted cell proliferation and adipogenic differentiation. Mechanistically, miR-146a-5p suppressed cell proliferation by directly targeting SMAD family member 4(SMAD4) to attenuate TGF-β signaling. Moreover, miR-146a-5p inhibited the differentiation of intramuscular preadipocytes by targeting TNF receptor-associated factor 6(TRAF6) to weaken the AKT/mTORC1 signaling downstream of the TRAF6 pathway.Conclusions: MiR-146a-5p targets SMAD4 and TRAF6 to inhibit porcine intramuscular adipogenesis by attenuating TGF-β and AKT/mTORC1 signaling, respectively. These findings provide a novel miRNA biomarker for regulating intramuscular adipogenesis to promote pork quality.

基于SIRT1/TGF-β_1/Smad通路研究三七皂苷对高糖诱导的大鼠肾小管上皮细胞EMT的影响

[目的]研究三七皂苷(Panax notoginseng saponins,PNS)对高糖诱导后肾小管上皮细胞发生上皮细胞-间充质转化(epithelial-mesenchymal transition,EMT)的修复作用及其相关机制。[方法]培养肾小管上皮细胞株NRK-52E细胞,分为正常对照组、高糖组、白藜芦醇(resveratrol,RSV)组、PNS组、沉默信息调节因子1(silent information regulator 1,SIRT1)抑制剂EX527组和EX527+PNS组。药物干预48h后收集细胞;采用免疫组化检测α-平滑肌肌动蛋白(alpha-smooth muscle actin,α-SMA)、E-钙黏着蛋白(E-cadherin,E-cad)的蛋白表达;Real-time RT-PCR检测SIRT1、α-SMA、E-cad、转化生长因子-β_1(transforming growth factor-β_1,TGF-β_1)、Smad3、Smad4的基因表达,Western blot检测SIRT1、α-SMA、E-cad、TGF-β_1的蛋白表达。[结果]与正常对照组比较,高糖诱导后的NRK-52E细胞出现明显的EMT表现,即α-SMA蛋白表达增多(P<0.05),E-cad蛋白表达减少(P<0.01)。与高糖组比较,PNS组α-SMA蛋白表达减少(P<0.05),E-cad和SIRT1蛋白表达增加(P<0.01,P<0.01),TGF-β_1、Smad3、Smad4基因表达降低(P<0.01,P<0.05)。EX527干预后,PNS作用受到抑制。[结论]PNS对肾小管上皮细胞具有保护作用,其机制可能是通过激活SIRT1抑制TGF-β_1/Smad通路,从而阻止高糖诱导的EMT的发生。

Cetirizine regulates scleroderma skin fibrosis in mice via the TGF-β1/Smad3 signaling pathway

Objective:To investigate the effect of cetirizine on the fibrosis of skin tissue in systemic sclerosis(SSc)mice and its mechanism of action.Methods:Thirty-two BALB/C mice were randomly divided into a blank group,a model group,a cetirizine low-dose group,and a cetirizine high-dose group,with eight in each group.The blank group was injected with normal saline on the back,and the other three groups were injected with bleomycin on the back to prepare SSc mouse models.The mice were injected once a day for 28 consecutive days,while the normal group and the model group were given saline.The dose group was administrated intragastrically at 2 mg/kg and 5 mg/kg,respectively,for 28 consecutive days.Detect the thickness of the dermis by taking the skin tissue in the back injection area of each group.Hematoxylin-eosin staining(HE)and Masson staining.Sample hydrolysis method to detect hydroxyproline(HYP)content in skin tissue.Immunohistochemical detection ofα-smooth muscle actin(α-SMA)expression in skin tissues.Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA)to detect serum interleukin(IL-6,IL-10)and transforming growth factor(TGF-αand TGF-β1).Quantitative real-time PCR(qRT-PCR)was used to detect the expression levels of collagen type I(COL1A1),type III collagen(COL3A1),Smad homolog 3(Smad3),and TGF-β1 mRNA.Western blot was used to detect the expression levels of COL1A1,COL3A1 and p-Smad3.Results:Compared with the blank group,the dermis thickness and HYP content of the model group increased,the skin tissue lesions and fibrosis were more severe,theα-SMA positive expression intensity in the skin tissue was higher,and the serum IL-6,IL-10,TGF-α,TGF-β1 content increased,COL1A1,COL3A1,Smad3,TGF-β1 mRNA expression levels increased in skin tissues,COL1A1,COL3A1,p-Smad3 protein expression increased,the differences were statistically significant(P<0.05).Compared with the model group,the dermal thickness and HYP content of the low and high dose cetirizine groups were reduced,the degree of skin tissue lesions and fibrosis was improved,the expression ofα-SMA in skin tissues was weakened,the levels of IL-6,IL-10,TGF-α,TGF-β1 in serum were reduced,the expression levels of COL1A1,COL3A1,Smad3 and TGF-β1 in skin tissues were reduced,and the expression levels of COL1A1,COL3A1,and p-Smad3 proteins were reduced,the decrease in the high-dose group was more significant,and the differences were statistically significant(P<0.05).Conclusion:Cetirizine can improve the degree of fibrosis of skin tissue in SSc mice and reduce the immune inflammation response.The mechanism of action is related to the TGF-β1/Smad3 signaling pathway.

EL-7013促进Sirt1调控TGF-β1/Smad3通路抑制肺纤维化

目的:对比EL-7013和吡非尼酮(pirfenidone,PFD)的抗纤维化作用及可能机制。方法:向C57BL/6小鼠气管内滴注3 mg/kg博来霉素(bleomycin,BLM)构建肺纤维化动物模型重组人TGF-β1(10 ng/mL)诱导人胚肺成纤维细胞(human embryonic lung fibroblasts,HLF-1)建立肺纤维化细胞模型,分别用EL-7013和PFD干预处理,机制探讨实验用EX-527抑制Sirt1表达及活性。HE、Masson染色评估肺组织病理变化,Western blot检测肺组织中COL1A1、COL3A1、α-SMA等纤维化指标和TGF-β1、Phospho-Smad1/Smad1、Phospho-Smad3/Smad3等通路指标表达,碱水法检测肺组织羟脯氨酸(hydroxyproline,HYP)含量。CCK-8检测细胞增殖活性,免疫荧光染色、Western blot、RT-qPCR检测细胞模型中纤维化及TGF-β1/Smad通路相关指标的蛋白和mRNA表达水平。结果:EL-7013明显减轻BLM诱导的肺组织结构破坏、胶原沉积,减轻TGF-β1及Phospho-Smad3蛋白表达(tBLM-300mg/kgEL-7013=11.149,P=0.008;tBLM-300mg/kgEL-7013=16.171,P=0.004)同时明显减轻TGF-β1诱导的细胞增殖(t=6.357,P=0.024),减少COL1A1、COL3A1、α-SMA、TGF-β1、Phospho-Smat3蛋白累积(t=66.136,P=0.000;t=13.726,P=0.005;t=10.230,P=0.009;t=9.263,P=0.011;t=14.809,P=0.005)。EL-7013可改善TGF-β1刺激导致的Sirt1表达及活性下降,特异性抑制Sirt1削弱了EL-7013的抗纤维化作用及对Phospho-Smad3的抑制作用(t=-6.009,P=0.027)。结论:EL-7013通过促进Sirt1从而调控TGF-β1/Smad3信号通路来抑制肺纤维化,为肺纤维的机制、新药研究提供新思路。

Role of transforming growth factor-beta1-smad signal transduction pathway in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma

AIM： To explore the role of transforming growth factorbeta1 （TGF-β1）-smad signal transduction pathway in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. METHODS： Thirty-six hepatocellular carcinoma specimens were obtained from Qidong Liver Cancer Institute and Department of Pathology of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University. All primary antibodies （polyclonal antibodies） to TGF-β1, type H Transforming growth factor-beta receptor （TβR-Ⅱ）, nuclear factor-kappaB （NF-KB）, CD34, smad4 and smad7, secondary antibodies and immunohistochemical kit were purchased from Zhongshan Biotechnology Limited Company （Beijing, China）. The expressions of TGF-β1, TβR-Ⅱ, NF- KB, smad4 and smad7 proteins in 36 specimens of hepatocellular carcinoma （HCC） and its adjacent tissue were separately detected by immunohistochemistry to observe the relationship between TGF-β1 and TβR-Ⅱ, between NF-KB and TGF-β1, between smad4 and smad7 and between TGF-β1 or TβR-Ⅱ and microvessel density （MVD）. MVD was determined by labelling the vessel endothelial cells with CD34. RESULTS： The expression of TGF-β1, smad7 and MVD was higher in HCC tissue than in adjacent HCC tissue （P〈0.01, P〈0.05,P〈0.01 respectively）. The expression of TβR-Ⅱ and smad4 was lower in HCC tissue than in its adjacent tissue （P〈0.01, P〈0.05 respectively）. The expression of TGF-β1 protein and NF-KB protein was consistent in HCC tissue. The expression of TGF-β1 and MVD was also consistent in HCC tissue. The expression of TIER- Ⅱ was negatively correlated with that of MVD in HCC tissue. CONCLUSION： The expressions of TGF-IB1, TβR- Ⅱ, NF-KB, smad4 and smad7 in HCC tissue, which are major up and down stream factors of TGF-β1-smad signal transduction pathway, are abnormal. These factors are closely related with NVD and may play an important role in HCC angiogenesis. The inhibitory action of TGF-β1 is weakened in hepatic carcinoma cells because of abnormality of TGF-β1 receptors （such as TIBR- Ⅱ） and postreceptors （such as smad4 and smad7）. NF-KB may cause activation and production of TGF-β1.

贵州苗药刺梨调控SIRT1-TGFβ/Smads信号途径延缓肾纤维化的机制

目的 探讨苗药刺梨延缓单侧输尿管、结扎术(UUO)模型大鼠肾间质纤维化的作用机制.方法 将50只SPF级雄性SD大鼠,适应性喂养1 w后,随机分为假手术组和手术组;手术组行UUO,假手术组只行输尿管分离,但不结扎.术后第2天,手术组随机分为模型组、SIRT1激动剂组、刺梨中剂量组、氯沙坦钾组,每组10只.各组于分组当天参照马氏定理设定干预剂量.氯沙坦组给予氯沙坦10 mg/(kg·d),浓度为20%;刺梨中剂量给予刺梨冻干粉3 g/(kg·d),浓度为3%;SIRT1激动剂组给予白藜芦醇25 mg/d.模型组和假手术组均同时给予同等容积无菌生理盐水灌胃.实验大鼠均每天干预1次,连续干预14 d后处死大鼠.取大鼠肾组织做苏木素-伊红(HE)、Masson染色以观察其病理变化;免疫组织化学法测定Western印迹检测肾组织转化生长因子(TGF)-β1、TGF-βⅠ型受体(TGF-βRⅠ)、Smad2、Smad3、Smad7的表达;用RT-PCR技术检测TGF-β1 mRNA、TGF-βRⅠmRNA、Smads2、Smad3、Smad7 mRNA的表达.结果 与假手术组比较,模型组病理损伤程度显著增加,丙二醛(MDA)含量增加、超氧化物歧化酶(SOD)含量降低(P<0.01),TGF-β1、TGF-βRⅠ的表达水平明显增加(P<0.05).与模型组比较各治疗组病理损伤减轻,TGF-β1、TGF-βRⅠ表达减少,Smda2、Smad3的表达降低,Smda7表达增加(均P<0.05).刺梨中剂量组与SIRT1激动剂组比较差异无显著性(P>0.05).结论 刺梨冻干粉与SIRT1激动剂(白藜芦醇)均可减轻单侧输尿管结扎肾间质纤维化大鼠的肾组织脂质过氧化物的产生,同时能增加抗氧化酶的含量,保护受损肾小管上皮细胞,有效改善肾脏纤维化病变.其机制可能与其富含维生素C、SOD、刺梨黄酮等多种抗氧化成分,激活体内SIRT1,从而活化Smda7以下调TGF-β1、TGF-βRⅠ及Smda2、Smad3的表达有关.

Mechanism of Resveratrol on autophagy mediated by Mst1/Sirt3 signaling pathway in diabetic cardiomyopathy

Objective:To observe the effects of resveratrol on myocardial cell injury and Mst1/Sirt3 signaling pathway mediated autophagy in type 2 diabetic mice. Methods:C57 BL/KSJ db/db mice were allocated to the normal control group,the model group,and the resveratrol group;C57 BL/KSJ db/m mice served as the melbine group,with 10 mice each. The resveratrol group and the melbine group were treated with resveratrol and metformin by gavage,respectively. The normal control group and the model group were treated with equal volume of normal saline by gavage,for 8 consecutive weeks. H & E staining,transmission electron microscopy and immunofluorescence were used to observe the pathological morphology,ultrastructure and apoptosis levels of myocardial tissues,respectively. RT-qPCR method was used to detect the expression levels of apoptosis genes Bax and Bcl-2 in myocardial tissues,and Western-blot method was used to detect the expression levels of autophagy proteins(LC3 and p62),Mst1 and Sirt3 proteins in myocardial tissue. Results:Compared with the model group,resveratrol can significantly reduce the body weight,blood glucose level and serum CK and LDH levels of db/db mice,and the differences were statistically significant(P<0.05;P<0.01). Meanwhile,after resveratrol treatment,myocardial inflammation score,apoptosis rate,Bax mRNA expression level and Bax/Bcl-2 ratio in myocardial tissue were significantly reduced,and Bcl-2 mRNA expression level was significantly increased,and the differences were statistically significant(P<0.01). In addition,compared with the model group,the expression level of p62 and p-Mst1 protein in the myocardial tissue of the resveratrol group was significantly reduced,and the expression level of Sirt3 protein and the ratio of LC3Ⅱ/LC3Ⅰ were significantly increased,and the differences were statistically significant(P<0.01). Conclusion:Resveratrol promotes the autophagy level of cardiomyocytes by activating the Mst1/Sirt3 signaling pathway and inhibits cardiomyocyte apoptosis to play a protective role in diabetic cardiomyopathy.

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

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

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

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

Signaling cross-talk between TGF-β/BMP and other pathways

Transforming growth factor-beta （TGF-β）/bone morphogenic protein （BMP） signaling is involved in the vast majority of cellular processes and is fundamentally important during the entire life of all metazoans. Deregulation of TGF-β/ BMP activity almost invariably leads to developmental defects and/or diseases, including cancer. The proper functioning of the TGF-β/BMP pathway depends on its constitutive and extensive communication with other signaling pathways, leading to synergistic or antagonistic effects and eventually desirable biological outcomes. The nature of such signaling cross-talk is overwhelmingly complex and highly context-dependent. Here we review the different modes of cross-talk between TGF-β/BMP and the signaling pathways of Mitogen-activated protein kinase, phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase/ Akt, Wnt, Hedgehog, Notch, and the interleukin/interferon-gamma/tumor necrosis factor-alpha cytokines, with an emphasis on the underlying molecular mechanisms.

Role of TGF-βl Signaling in Heart Valve Calcification Induced by Abnormal Mechanical Stimulation in a Tissue Engineering Model

A tissue engineering model of heart valve calcification induced in a bio-reactor was established to evaluate the calcification induced by abnormal mechanical stimulation and explore the underlying molecular mechanisms.Polyethylene glycol (PEG)-modified decellularized porcine aortic leaflets seeded with human valve interstitial cells (huVICs)were mounted on a Ti-Ni alloy frame to fabricate two-leaflet and three-leaflet tissue engineered valves.The two-leaflet model valves were exposed to abnormal pulsatile flow stimulation with null (group A),low (1000mL/min,group B),medium (2000mL/min,group C),and high velocity (3000mL/min,group D)for 14 days. Morphology and calcification were assessed by yon Kossa staining,alkaline phosphatase (ALP)content,and Runx2 immunostaining.Leaflet calcification and mRNA and protein expression of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1,bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2),Smadl,and MSX2 were measured at different time points.ALP content was examined in two-leaflet valves seeded with BMP2 shRNA plasmid-infected huVICs and exposed to the same stimulation conditions.The results showed that during 14 days of flow stimulation,huVICs on the leaflet surface proliferated to generate normal monolayer coverage in groups A,B,and C.Under mechanical stimulation,huVICs showed a parallel growth pattern in the direction of the fluid flow,but huVICs exhibited disordered growth in the high-velocity flow environment,yon Kossa staining,ALP measurement,and immunohistochemical staining for Runx2 confirmed the lack of obvious calcification in group A and significant calcification in group D.Expression levels of TGF-β1,BMP2, and MSX2 mRNA and protein were increased under fluid stimulation.ALP production by BMP2 shRNA plasmid-infected huVICs on model leaflets was significantly reduced.In conclusion,abnormal mechanical stimulation in a bioreactor induced calcification in the tissue engineering valve model.The extent of calcification correlated positively with the flow velocity,as did the mRNA and protein levels of TGF-β1,BMP2,and MSX2.These findings indicate that TGF-β1/BMP2 signaling is involved in valve calcification induced bv abnormal mechanical stimulation.

Inhibitory effects of oxyresveratrol on ERK and Smad1/2 phosphorylation and HSC activation in preventing carbon tetrachloride-induced rat liver fibrosis

Oxyresveratrol(ORes,trans-2,4,3′,5′-tetrahydroxy stilbene)naturally exists in mulberry,grapes,peanuts and other plants.It belongs to stilbene polyphenolic family and has an extra hydroxyl group at 2-position comparing with resveratrol(Res).Hence,ORes has stronger antioxidant activity than resveratrol.In present study,we employed a rat hepatic fibrosis model induced by carbon tetrachloride(CCl_(4))and administrated ORes via gavage feeding to study the protective effects and potential mechanisms of ORes against hepatic fibrosis.We demonstrated that rat liver oxidative damage induced by CCl_(4)was significantly alleviated after ORes feeding.Furthermore,the mRNA transcription levels ofα-smooth muscle actinn(˛-SMA),desmin,and two MMPs(MMP2 and MMP9)were reduced and the expression levels of transforming growth factorβ1(TGF-β1),p-small mother against decapen-taplegic protein(Smad)1/2 and p-extracellular signal-regulated kinases(ERK)1/2 in the liver tissue down-regulated dramatically.In a parallel study with Res,ORes showed more efficacious protective effect than Res against rat liver fibrosis,which is attributed to extended conjugation system due to the extra hydroxyl group at 2-position on ORes making it more electron-rich and susceptible to oxidation than Res.Therefore,dietary consumption of mulberry and other fruits containing ORes may be beneficial in the prevention of liver fibrosis.

Celastrol Protects TGF-β1-induced Endothelial-mesenchymal Transition

The endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition（End MT） in endothelial cells contributes to the development of cardiac fibrosis,ultimately leading to cardiac remodeling.In this study,the effects and molecular mechanisms of celastrol（CEL） on transforming growth factor-β1（TGF-β1）-induced End MT in human umbilical vein endothelial（HUVEC-12） cells were investigated.The presented data demonstrated that CEL significantly blocked the morphology change of HUVEC-12 cells induced by TGF-β1 without cell cytotoxicity.In accordance with these findings,CEL blocked TGF-β1-induced EndM T as evidenced by the inhibition of the mesenchymal markers,including collagen Ⅰ,Ⅲ,α-SMA,fibronectin m RNA expression,and the increase in the m RNA expression of endothelial cell marker CD31.These changes were also confirmed by double immunofluorescence staining of CD31 and vimentin.The in vitro scratch assay showed that CEL inhibited the migration capacity of the transitioned endothelial cells induced by TGF-β1.Further experiments showed that the beneficial effect of CEL on blocking the End MT in HUVEC-12 cells was associated with the suppression of the TGF-β1/Smads signalling pathway,which was also confirmed by the inhibition of its downstream transcription factor snail1,twist1,twist2,ZEB1 and ZEB2.These results indicate that CEL blocks TGF-β1-induced End MT through TGF-β1/Smads signalling pathway and suggest that it may be a feasible therapy for cardiac fibrosis diseases.