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

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

Oleanolic acid inhibits colon cancer cell stemness and reverses chemoresistance by suppressing JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway

Background:Oleanolic acid(OA),a pentacyclic triterpenoid exhibiting specific anti-cancer properties and highly effective antioxidant activity,was isolated from traditional Chinese medicinal herbs.Conversely,the OA that impacts colon cancer(CC)cells and its underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood.Methods:The cytotoxic effect of OA alone or OA-5-Fluorouracil(5-FU)combination on normal and CC cells was analyzed by methyl thiazolyl diphenyl-tetrazolium bromide(MTT).Then,the impact of OA on CC cell lines(LoVo and HT-29)proliferation and stemness were measured using colon formation and tumorsphere formation assays.Octamer-binding transcription factor 4(Oct4),Prominin-1(CD133),Nanog,and transcription factor SOX-2(SOX2)are cell stemness-related indicators whose expression was assessed usingfluorescence qPCR assay,Western blotting,and immunohistochemistry.The effect of OA on the proliferative potency of CC cells was evaluated using an in vivo model.Results:The stem-like characteristics and clone production of colon cancer cells were markedly reduced by OA alone or in combination with OA-5-FU.Moreover,OA increases the susceptibility of CC cells to 5-FU by blocking the cell stemness-related markers(CD133,Nanog,SOX2,and Oct4)expression levels both in vitro and in vivo,as well as by inactivating the activator of transcription 3(STAT3 signaling)and Janus kinase 2/signal transducer(JAK2).Conclusion:Thesefindings imply that oleanolic acid,both in vitro and in vivo,suppresses the JAK2/STAT3 pathway,which in turn reverses chemoresistance and decreases colon cancer cell stemness.Therefore,by reducing the recommended amount of 5-FU,this strategy may improve chemotherapeutic effectiveness and minimize undesired side effects.

Effects of plumbagin on migration and invasion of human hepatoma cell line via JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway

Objective:To study the effect of plumbagin(PL)on the migration and invasion of human hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)cells and its possible mechanism.Methods:The cell counting kit(CCK-8)was used to detect the effects of different concentrations of plumbagin on the proliferation of human hepatocellular carcinoma Huh-7 and LM3 cells.The effect of plumbagin on the migration ability of Huh-7 and LM3 cells was detected by scratch test and Transwell migration test,and the effect of on the invasion ability of Huh-7 and LM3 cells was detected by Transwell invasion test.Western Blot was used to detect the expression of E-cadherin,N-cadherin,matrix metalloproteinase-2 and related proteins in JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway in Huh-7 and LM3 cells.Results:Plumbagin could inhibit the proliferation of Huh-7 and LM3 cells in a time-and concentration-dependent manner.Plumbagin inhibited the migration and invasion of Huh-7 and LM3 cells in a concentration dependent manner,and it can down-regulate the expression of N-cadherin and MMP-2 protein,up-regulate the expression of E-cadherin protein,and inhibit the activation of JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway.Conclusion:Plumbagin can inhibit the migration and invasion of human hepatocellular carcinoma Huh-7 and LM3 cells,and the molecular mechanism of this process may be related to the inhibition of JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway activation.

Anti-diabetic potential of apigenin,luteolin,and baicalein via partially activating PI3K/Akt/GLUT-4 signaling pathways in insulin-resistant HepG2 cells

Dietary flavonoids are abundant in natural plants and possess multiple pharmacological and nutritional activities.In this study,apigenin,luteolin,and baicalein were chosen to evaluate their anti-diabetic effect in high-glucose and dexamethasone induced insulin-resistant(IR)HepG2 cells.All flavonoids improves the glucose consumption and glycogen synthesis abilities in IR-HepG2 cells via activating glucose transporter protein 4(GLUT4)and phosphor-glycogen synthase kinase(GSK-3β).These fl avonoids signifi cantly inhibited the production of reactive oxygen species(ROS)and advanced glycation end-products(AGEs),which were closely related to the suppression of the phosphorylation form of NF-κB and P65.The expression levels of insulin receptor substrate-1(IRS-1),insulin receptor substrate-2(IRS-2)and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase(PI3K)/protein kinase B(Akt)pathway in IR-HepG2 cells were all partially activated by the fl avonoids,with variable effects.Furthermore,the intracellular metabolic conditions of the fl avonoids were also evaluated.

To explore the mechanism of Dahuang Lingxian Formula in relieving inflammatory response of bile duct cells based on IL-6/JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway

Objective:To explore the mechanism of action of Dahuang Lingxian Formula in alleviating the inflammatory response of bile duct cells in LPS-induced intrahepatic bile duct inflammation model rats based on IL-6/JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway.Methods:Fifty SD rats were randomly divided into five groups,blank group,model group,choling tablets(0.5 g/kg),and low and high concentration groups(2.4 g/kg and 4.8 g/kg)of Dahuang Lingxian Formula,ten rats in each group.Except for the blank group,the rats in each group were injected with 1.25 mg/kg LPS at the common bile duct at one time to construct an animal model of intrahepatic bile duct infection.After gavage on day 8,liver tissues were taken from rats at the hepatic hilum,and the histopathological changes of the hepatic hilum and biliary tree were observed by HE staining.The expression levels of serum glutamic alanine transaminase(ALT),glutamic oxalacetic transaminase(AST),malondialdehyde(MDA)and superoxide dismutase(SOD)were measured by biochemical method.The expression levels of interleukin 6(IL-6),Janus protein tyrosine kinase 2(JAK2),signal transducer and activator of transcription 3(STAT3)in rat serum were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA).Protein immunoblotting(WB)and real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR(RT-qPCR)were used to detect the expression levels of IL-6,JAK2,STAT3 protein and mRNA in biliary tree tissues.Results:①Compared with the blank group,the structures such as interlobular bile ducts in the hepatic sinusoids and portal duct area of the model rats were destroyed,and inflammatory cells infiltrated around them.The expression of ALT,AST,MDA,IL-6,JAK2 and STAT3 in the serum increased significantly,the expression level of SOD decreased,and the expression levels of IL-6,JAK2 and STAT3 proteins and mRNA increased.②Compared with the model group,the degree of liver pathological damage in rats in the Chiling Ning tablet group and the low and high concentration groups of Dahuang Lingxian Formula were improved,which could significantly reduce the expression levels of ALT,AST,MDA,IL-6,JAK2,STAT3 and up-regulate SOD in serum,and down-regulate the expression of IL-6,JAK2,STAT3 protein and mRNA,with the best effect in the high concentration group of Dahuang Lingxian Formula.③Compared with the choling tablet group,the rats in the low and high concentration groups of Dahuang Lingxian Formula tended to normalize the degree of liver pathological damage,without obvious inflammatory cell infiltration,and the expression levels of ALT,AST,MDA,IL-6,JAK2,STAT3 and the expression levels of IL-6,JAK2,STAT3 protein and mRNA in serum were reduced,and the expression levels of SOD were increased,with the best effect of Dahuang Lingxian Formula The treatment effect was best in the high concentration group.Conclusion:The mechanism may be related to the down-regulation of IL-6/JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway activation,and the best therapeutic effect was achieved by the high concentration group of Dahuang Lingxian Formula.

Elevated retinol binding protein 4 levels are associated with atherosclerosis in diabetic rats via JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway

BACKGROUND Atherosclerosis is a major cause of mortality worldwide and is driven by multiple risk factors,including diabetes,which results in an increased atherosclerotic burden,but the precise mechanisms for the occurrence and development of diabetic atheroscerosis have not been fully elucidated.AIM To summarize the potential role of retinol binding protein 4(RBP4) in the pathogenesis of diabetic atheroscerosis,particularly in relation to the RBP4-Janus kinase 2/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3(JAK2/STAT3)signaling pathway.METHODS Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups,including a control group(NC group),diabetic rat group(DM group),and diabetic atherosclerotic rat group(DA group).The contents of total cholesterol(TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol(HDL-c), triglycerides(TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDLc), fasting insulin(FINS),fasting plasma glucose,and hemoglobin A1 c(HbA1 c)were measured.Moreover,the adipose and serum levels of RBP4,along with the expression levels of JAK2, phosphorylated JAK2(p-JAK2), STAT3,phosphorylated STAT3(p-STAT3), B-cell lymphoma-2(Bcl-2), and Cyclin D1 in aortic tissues were also measured.Besides,homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance(HOMA-IR) and atherogenic indexes(AI) were calculated.RESULTS Compared with the NC and DM groups,the levels LDL-c,TG,TC,FINS,HOMAIR,RBP4,and AI were upregulated,whereas that of HDL-c was downregulated in the DA group(P <0.05);the mRNA levels of JAK2,STAT3,Cyclin D1,and Bcl-2 in the DA group were significantly increased compared with the NC group and the DM group;P-JAK2,p-JAK2/JAK2 ratio,p-STAT3,p-STAT3/STAT3 ratio,Cyclin D1,and Bcl-2 at protein levels were significantly upregulated in the DA group compared with the NC group and DM group.In addition,as shown by Pearson analysis,serum RBP4 had a positive correlation with TG,TC,LDL-c,FINS,HbA1 C,p-JAK2,p-STAT3,Bcl-2,Cyclin D1,AI,and HOMA-IR but a negative correlation with HDL-c.In addition,multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that serum RBP4,p-JAK2,p-STAT3,and LDL-c were predictors of the presence of diabetic atherosclerosis.CONCLUSION RBP4 could be involved in the initiation or progression of diabetic atherosclerosis by regulating the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway.

Role of the STAT3/survivin signaling pathway in the EML4-ALK-positive lung adenocarcinoma cell line H2228 before and after crizotinib-induced resistance

Objective This study investigated the role of the STAT3/survivin signaling pathway in the EML4-ALK- positive lung adenocarcinoma cell line H2228 before and after crizotinib-induced resistance. The mecha- nism of resistance was studied. Methods Cell viability was determined using the MTT assay. Crizotinib-induced apoptosis in H2228 and H2228 crizotinib-resistant cells treated with the indicated doses of crizotinib was measured at different times （24 h, 48 h, 72 h） using flow cytometry. The levels of p-ALK, ALK, p-STAT3, STAT3, and survivin after treatment of cells with 0, 0.3, and 1 pM crizotinib for 72 h were determined using Western blot analysis. DNA sequencing was used to identify mutations in H2228 crizotinib-resistant cells. Results The crizotinib IC50 values in H2228 and H2228 crizotinib-resistant cells at 72 h were 334.5 nM and 3418 nM, respectively. The resistance index of 1-12228 crizotinib-resistant cells was 10.20. Crizotinib induced apoptosis in H2228 cells and reduced the levels of p-ALK, p-STAT3, and survivin. In contrast, no changes in the levels of p-ALK, p-STAT3, and survivin were observed in H2228 crizotinib-resistant cells. The mutations 2067G--,A and 2182G--,C in EML4-ALK were present in the H2228 crizotinib-resistant cells. Conclusion Crizotinib decreased the viability of H2228 cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner. In the STAT3/survivin pathway, downregulation of p-ALK, p-STAT3, and survivin might contribute to crizo- tinib-induced apoptosis in H2228 ceils. However, the STAT3/survivin pathway in H2228 crizotinib-resistant cells was unaffected by crizotinib treatment. Acquired resistance in H2228 cells might be related to ALK mutations.

Morroniside ameliorates lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory damage in iris pigment epithelial cells through inhibition of TLR4/JAK2/STAT3 pathway

AIM:To investigate the effect of morroniside(Mor)on lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-treated iris pigment epithelial cells(IPE).METHODS:IPE cells were induced by LPS and treated with Mor.Cell proliferation was detected by cell counting kit(CCK)-8,apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry,the levels of tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α),interleukin(IL)-6,and IL-8 were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA)kits,and the protein expression of TLR4,JAK2,p-JAK2,STAT3,and p-STAT3 was analyzed by Western blotting.In addition,overexpression of TLR4 and Mor treatment of LPS-stimulated IPE cells were also tested for the above indices.RESULTS:Mor effectively promoted the proliferation and inhibited the apoptosis of LPS-treated IPE cells.In addition,Mor significantly reduced the levels of TNF-α,IL-6,and IL-8 and significantly inhibited the expression of TLR4,p-JAK2,and p-STAT3 in LPS-treated IPE cells.The effect of Mor on LPS-treated IPE cells was markedly attenuated after overexpression of TLR4.CONCLUSION:These findings suggest that Mor may ameliorate LPS-induced inflammatory damage and apoptosis in IPE through inhibition of TLR4/JAK2/STAT3 pathway.

3-epi-bufotalin suppresses the proliferation in colorectal cancer cells through the inhibition of the JAK1/STAT3 signaling pathway

Traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)has been increasingly employed in the last decades in China for both preventing and treating a variety of cancers.3-epi-bufotalin is an active ingredient of TCM“Chanpi”with anti-tumor potential.However,the effect and mechanism of 3-epi-bufotalin on colorectal cancers were not well disclosed.The present study demonstrated that 3-epi-bufotalin could reduce viability,trigger apoptosis,and block the cell cycle at the G2/M stage in colorectal cancer cell lines HT29,RKO,and COLO205 in vitro.Moreover,3-epi-bufotalin inhibited the JAK1/STAT3 signaling pathway.These results indicated the anti-proliferation ability of 3-epi-bufotalin in colorectal cancer cells.

Chaihu Longgu Muli Decoction relieving temporal lobe epilepsy in rats by inhibiting TLR4 signaling pathway through miR-146a-3p and miR-146a-5p

Objective To explore the effect and mechanism of Chaihu Longgu Muli Decoction(柴胡龙骨牡蛎汤,CHLGMLD)in rats with temporal lobe epilepsy(TLE).Methods A total of 80 Sprague-Dawley(SD)male rats were randomized into control(CON),model(MOD),carbamazepine(CBZ,0.1 g/kg),CHLGMLD low dose(CHLGMLD-L,12.5 g/kg),and high dose(CHLGMLD-H,25 g/kg)groups,with 16 rats in each group.TLE rat models were established in the four groups with the use of lithium-pilocarpine except for the CON group.After the successful establishment of TLE models,all drugs were administered through gavage,and distilled water was given to rats in the CON and MOD groups for four weeks.The frequency and duration of seizures before and after treatment were recorded for the evaluation of the alleviation degree.Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(qRT-PCR)was used to detect the expression levels of miR-146a-3p and miR-146a-5p.The expression levels of toll-like receptor 4(TLR4),interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 1(IRAK1),tumor necrosis factor(TNF)receptor-associated factor 6(TRAF6),TAK1-binding protein(TAB),nuclear factor-kappa B(NF-κB),and interleukin-1 beta(IL-1β)in hippocampus were tested by immunofluorescence assay.Correlation analysis between the above factors and expressions of miR-146a-3p and miR-146a-5p were performed separately.Results CHLGMLD decreased the frequency(P<0.05)and duration(P<0.01)of seizures in rats.CHLGMLD down-regulated the expression levels of miR-146a-5p and miR-146a-3p(P<0.05),and inhibited the expression levels of TLR4,IRAK1,TRAF6,TAB,NF-κB,and IL-1β(P<0.01).The correlation analysis revealed that the expression levels of TLR4,IRAK1,TRAF6,TAB,NF-κB,and IL-1β were positively correlated with the expression levels of miR-146a-3p and miR-146a-5p detected by qRT-PCR,respectively(P<0.01).Conclusion CHLGMLD can inhibite the TLR4 signaling pathway by lowering the expression levels of miR-146a-3p and miR-146a-5p to alleviate hippocampal dentate gyrus inflammation in TLE rats,thus relieving seizures.

Effect of Buyanghuanwu Decoction on PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway and Aquaporin AQP4 in Cerebral Hemorrhage Rats

[Objectives] To explore the effect of Buyanghuanwu decoction on PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and aquaporin AQP4 in cerebral hemorrhage rats and clarify the mechanism to provide clear direction and target for cerebral hemorrhage treatment caused by cerebral edema.[Methods]SD rats were randomly divided into six groups: model group,sham operation group,Buyanghuanwu decoction low,medium and high dose groups,and Ginkgo biloba group. Model group,Buyanghuanwu decoction group,G. biloba group were prepared to be intracerebral hemorrhage rat models by referring to Rosenberg law. While the expression of " polarity" of aquaporin AQP4 was detected by immunofluorescence labeling method,the Evans blue( Evans Blue,EB) content of brain tissue was determined by Spectrophotometry. In addition,the water content of brain tissue was detected by wet and dry weight method. [Results] When compared to the model group,the Buyang Huanwu decoction group,G. biloba group of PI3K and AKT proteins expression increased significantly( P < 0. 05) and AQP4 in Astrocyte end feet membrane concentrated expression significantly increased( P < 0. 05),EB content and water content of brain tissue significantly reduced( P <0. 05).[Conclusions]The protective mechanisms of Buyanghuanwu decoction on cerebral hemorrhage can work might because it can activate PI3K/AKT signaling pathway,regulate AQP4 " polar" expression,and reduce the permeability of the blood brain barrier and cerebral edema.

Effects of Liancao-Xieli capsule on intestinal mucosal inflammatory factors and TLR4/PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway in mice with ulcerative colitis

Objective:To observe the effect of Liancao-Xieli capsule on intestinal mucosal inflammatory factors and TLR4/PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway in mice with ulcerative colitis(UC);Methods:40 male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into the control group,model group,Liancao-Xieli group and mesalazine group,with 10 mice in each group.In addition to the control group,the remaining three groups of mice were induced by 3%dextran sulfate sodium(DSS)to induce acute UC model.During the modeling period,mice in each group were given corresponding drugs and normal saline by gavage.At the end of the experiment,HE staining was used to observe the pathological changes of colonic tissue in each group,and ELISA was used to detect the inflammatory factors(TNF-α,IL-6,IL-1β,IL-8,IL-17,and INF-γ)in serum and colonic tissue.The expression levels of TLR4/PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway related proteins were also detected by Western blot;Results:Compared with the model group,Liancao-Xieli capsule could significantly increase the colon length and decrease the score of colon histopathology in UC mice(P<0.01).In addition,the levels of TNF-α,IL-6,IL1β,IL-8,IL-17,and INF-γwere significantly reduced in serum and colon tissue,and the expressions of TLR4,PI3K,p-Akt and p-mTOR were significantly down-regulated in LiancaoXieyi group when compared with the model group(P<0.01).While the expressions of Akt and mTOR were not significantly affected in Liancao-Xieyi group(P>0.05);Conclusion:LiancaoXieli capsule can reduce the secretion of inflammatory factors,improve the intestinal mucosal damage and inflammatory response in UC by inhibiting the activation of TLR4/PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway。

Value of spiral CT perfusion parameters for evaluating acute pancreatitis and their correlation with inflammatory factor and JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway

Objective: To study the value of spiral CT perfusion parameters for evaluating acute pancreatitis and their correlation with inflammatory factor and JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. Methods: Patients with acute pancreatitis and patients with pancreatic trauma who underwent surgical resection in Liaocheng Dongchangfu People's Hospital between May 2014 and March 2017 were selected and enrolled in the AP group and the control group of the research respectively;spiral CT perfusion scanning was conducted before surgery to measure the blood flow (BF), blood volume (BV), and mean transit time (MTT), and the serum was collected to determine the contents of inflammatory factors;pancreatitis tissue and normal pancreatic tissue were collected after surgical resection to determine the expression of JAK2/STAT3 signal molecules. Results: pancreatic tissue BF and BV levels of AP group were significantly lower than those of control group while MTT level was not different from that of control group;CRP, PCT, HMGB-1, Ghrelin and sTREM-1 contents in serum as well as JAK2, STAT3, Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL mRNA expression in pancreatic tissue of AP group were significantly higher than those of control group and negatively correlated with BF and BV levels in pancreatic tissue. Conclusion: Spiral CT perfusion parameters BF and BV can reflect the microcirculatory disorder of acute pancreatitis and are associated with the increased secretion of inflammatory factors and the activation of JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway in the course of disease.

多柔比星通过Stat3-Oct-4/CD44途径诱导三阴性乳腺癌4T1细胞干性的产生

目的:观察多柔比星对三阴性乳腺癌细胞干性的诱导作用并研究其作用机制。方法:用不同终浓度(0、0.05、0.1和0.5μmol/L)多柔比星培养细胞,观察细胞形态及存活情况,筛选出最适多柔比星浓度(0.1μmol/L)用于后续实验。小鼠乳腺癌4T1细胞和人乳腺癌MDA-MB-468细胞经多柔比星(0.1μmol/L)持续刺激4周后分别命名为4T1-DOX和MDA-MB-468-DOX细胞。通过成球实验观察细胞的干性,免疫荧光检测CD133的表达,流式细胞术检测CD44的表达,Western blot检测Stat3、p-Stat3和Oct-4的表达。结果:成球实验发现4T1-DOX细胞成球能力较4T1细胞显著增强,MDA-MB-468-DOX细胞成球能力较MDA-MB-468细胞也显著增强(P <0.05);免疫荧光结果显示CD133在4T1-DOX细胞的表达比4T1细胞明显增高(P <0.05);流式细胞术结果表明CD44在4T1-DOX中表达较4T1细胞显著增高(P <0.05);Western blot结果显示Oct-4及p-Stat3在4T1-DOX细胞中的蛋白水平增高(P <0.05),而总Stat3的表达量未见显著改变。以上结果表明在0.1μmol/L多柔比星持续诱导下4T1细胞干性特征明显增强。加入Stat3抑制剂WP1066后,CD44、Oct-4和p-Stat3的蛋白水平均下降(P <0.05)。结论:多柔比星通过激活Stat3-Oct-4信号通路,使三阴性乳腺癌细胞成球能力增强,4T1细胞干性标志物CD133及CD44表达增多,诱导乳腺癌细胞干性的产生。因此,Stat3-Oct-4通路可能成为三阴性乳腺癌治疗的新靶标。

To investigate the effect of Shenqi Tiaoshen Formula on CSE induced inflammatory response of MH-S cells based on TLR4/NF-kB/NLRP3 pathway

Objective:To study the effects of Shenqi Tiaoshen Formula(SQTS)on the inflammatory response of MH-S cells induced by cigarette smoking extract(CSE)and its mechanism based on TLR4/NF-kB/NLRP3 pathway.Methods:MH-S cells were used as subjects to evaluate cell viability by CCK-8 method.The levels of TNF-α,IL-1βand IL-6 in the supernatant were detected by ELISA.ROS were detected by DCFH-DA fluorescence probe.Western blotting was used to detect the expression of TLR4/NF-kB/NLRP3 pathway protein,and TAK-242,a TLR4 inhibitor,was used to verify the role of SQTS in the TLR4/NF-kB/NLRP3 pathway.Results:Compared with blank group,the cell survival rate of CSE group was decreased,and the contents of inflammatory cytokines TNF-α,IL-1βand IL-6 were increased(P<0.05),ROS fluorescence expression level was significantly increased(P<0.01),TLR4/NF-kB/NLRP3 pathway protein expression was significantly increased(P<0.05);Compared with CSE group,the survival rate of cells in SQTS groups was increased,and the expression levels of the above indexes were decreased(P<0.05),and TLR4/NF-kB/NLRP3 pathway protein decreased in TAK-242 groups(P<0.05).Conclusion:SQTS can reduce the inflammatory response of MH-S cells induced by CSE by inhibiting TLR4/NF-kB/NLRP3 pathway.

HBP1 inhibits chicken preadipocyte differentiation by activating the STAT3 signaling via directly enhancing JAK2 expression

Obesity presents a serious threat to human health and broiler performance.The expansion of adipose tissue is mainly regulated by the differentiation of preadipocytes.The differentiation of preadipocytes is a complex biological process regulated by a variety of transcription factors and signaling pathways.Previous studies have shown that the transcription factor HMG-box protein 1(HBP1)can regulate the differentiation of mouse 3T3-L1 preadipocytes by activating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.However,it is unclear whether HBP1 involved in chicken preadipocyte differentiation and which signaling pathways it regulates.The aim of the current study was to explore the biological function and molecular regulatory mechanism of HBP1 in the differentiation of chicken preadipocytes.The expression patterns of chicken HBP1 in abdominal adipose tissue and during preadipocyte differentiation were analyzed by RT-qPCR and Western blot.The preadipocyte stably overexpressing HBP1 or knockout HBP1 and their control cell line were used to analyze the effect of HBP1 on preadipocyte differentiation by oil red O staining,RT-qPCR and Western blot.Cignal 45-Pathway Reporter Array was used to screen the signal pathways that HBP1 regulates in the differentiation of chicken preadipocytes.Chemical inhibitor and siRNA for signal transducer and activator of transcription 3(STAT3)were used to analyze the effect of STAT3 on preadipocyte differentiation.The preadipocyte stably overexpressing HBP1 was transfected by the siRNA of STAT3 or treated with a chemical inhibitor of STAT3 for the rescue experiment.The results of gene expression analysis showed that the expression of HBP1 was related to abdominal fat deposition and preadipocyte differentiation in chickens.The results of function gain and loss experiments indicated that overexpression/knockout of HBP1 in chicken preadipocytes could inhibit/promote(P<0.05)lipid droplet deposition and the expression of adipogenesis-related genes.Mechanismlly,HBP1 activates(P<0.05)the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3(STAT3)signaling pathway by targeting janus kinase 2(JAK2)transcription.The results of functional rescue experiments indicated that STAT3 signaling mediated the regulation of HBP1 on chicken preadipocyte differentiation.In conclusion,HBP1 inhibits chicken preadipocyte differentiation by activating the STAT3 signaling pathway via directly enhancing JAK2 expression.Our findings provided new insights for further analysis of the molecular genetic basis of chicken adipose tissue growth and development.

GPR160 regulates the self-renewal and pluripotency of mouse embryonic stem cells via JAK1/STAT3 signaling pathway

G-protein-coupled receptors(GPCRs)are the largest family of transmembrane receptors and regulate various physiological and pathological processes.Despite extensive studies,the roles of GPCRs in mouse embryonic stem cells(mESCs)remain poorly understood.Here,we show that GPR160,a class A member of GPCRs,is dramatically downregulated concurrent with mESC differentiation into embryoid bodies in vitro.Knockdown of Gpr160 leads to downregulation of the expression of pluripotency-associated transcription factors and upregulation of the expression of lineage markers,accompanying with the ar-rest of the mESC cell-cycle in the GO/G1 phase.RNA-seq analysis shows that GPR160 participates in the JAK/STAT signaling pathway crucial formaintaining ESC stemness,and the knockdown of Gpr160 results in the downregulation of STAT3 phosphorylation level,which in turn is partially rescued by colivelin,a STAT3 activator.Consistent with these observations,GPR160 physically interacts with JAK1,and co-operates with leukemia inhibitory factor receptor(LIFR)and gp130 to activate the STAT3 pathway.In summary,our results suggest that GPR160 regulates mESC self-renewal and pluripotency by interacting with the JAK1-LIFR-gp130 complex to mediate the JAK1/STAT3 signaling pathway.

Hepatocellular carcinoma-derived exosomal miRNA-761 regulates the tumor microenvironment by targeting the SOCS2/JAK2/STAT3 pathway

BACKGROUND:Exosomes and exosomal microRNAs have been implicated in tumor occurrence and metastasis.Our previous study showed that microRNA-761(miR-761)is overexpressed in hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)tissues and that its inhibition affects mitochondrial function and inhibits HCC metastasis.The mechanism by which exosomal miR-761 modulates the tumor microenvironment has not been elucidated.METHODS:Exosomal miR-761 was detected in six cell lines.Cell counting kit-8(CCK-8)and transwell migration assays were performed to determine the function of exosomal miR-761 in HCC cells.The luciferase reporter assay was used to analyze miR-761 target genes in normal fi broblasts(NFs).The inhibitors AZD1480 and C188-9 were employed to determine the role of the Janus kinase 2/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3(JAK2/STAT3)signaling pathway in the transformation of cancer-associated fi broblasts(CAFs).RESULTS:In this study,we characterized the mechanism by which miR-761 reprogrammed the tumor microenvironment.We found that HCC-derived exosomal miR-761 was taken up by NFs.Moreover,HCC exosomes aff ected the tumor microenvironment by activating NFs via suppressor of cytokine signaling 2(SOCS2)and the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway.CONCLUSIONS:These results demonstrated that exosomal miR-761 modulated the tumor microenvironment via SOCS2/JAK2/STAT3 pathway-dependent activation of CAFs.Our fi ndings may inspire new strategies for HCC prevention and therapy.

Research progress on signaling pathways in cirrhotic portal hypertension

Portal hypertension(PHT) is an important consequence of liver cirrhosis, which can lead to complications that adversely affect a patient's quality of life and survival, such as upper gastrointestinal bleeding, ascites, and portosystemic encephalopathy. In recent years, advances in molecular biology have led to major discoveries in the pathological processes of PHT, including the signaling pathways that may be involved: PI3 K-AKT-mTOR, RhoA/Rho-kinase, JAK2/STAT3, and farnesoid X receptor. However, the pathogenesis of PHT is complex and there are numerous pathways involved. Therefore, the targeting of signaling pathways for medical management is lagging. This article summarizes the progress that has been made in understanding the signaling pathways in PHT, and provides ideas for treatment of the disorder.

Huoxin Pill Reduces Myocardial Ischemia Reperfusion Injury in Rats via TLR4/NFκB/NLRP3 Signaling Pathway

Objective:To explore the protective effect of Huoxin Pill(HXP)on acute myocardial ischemia-reperfusion(MIRI)injury in rats.Methods:Seventy-five adult SD rats were divided into the sham-operated group,model group,positive drug group(diltiazem hydrochloride,DH),high dose group(24 mg/kg,HXP-H)and low dose group(12 mg/kg,HXP-L)of Huoxin Pill(n=15 for every group)according to the complete randomization method.After 1 week of intragastric administration,the left anterior descending coronary artery of the rat's heart was ligated for 45 min and reperfused for 3 h.Serum was separated and the levels of creatine kinase(CK),creatine kinase isoenzyme(CK-MB)and lactate dehydrogenase(LDH),superoxide dismutase(SOD),and malondialdehyde(MDA),hypersensitive C-reactive protein(hs-CRP)and interleukin-1β(IL-1β)were measured.Myocardial ischemia rate,myocardial infarction rate and myocardial no-reflow rate were determined by staining with Evans blue and 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride(TTC).Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform(TCMSP)and Bioinformatics Analysis Tool for Molecular mechANism of Traditional Chinese Medicine(BATMAN)databases were used to screen for possible active compounds of HXP and their potential therapeutic targets;the results of anti-inflammatory genes associated with MIRI were obtained from GeneC ards,Drugbank,Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man(OMIM),and Therapeutic Target Datebase(TTD)databases was performed;Gene Ontology(GO)and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes(KEGG)enrichment were used to analyze the intersected targets;molecular docking was performed using AutoD ock Tools.Western blot was used to detect the protein expression of Toll-like receptor 4(TLR4)/nuclear factor kappa-B(NFκB)/NOD-like receptor protein 3(NLRP3).Results:Compared with the model group,all doses of HXP significantly reduced the levels of LDH,CK and CK-MB(P<0.05,P<0.01);HXP significantly increased serum activity of SOD(P<0.05,P<0.01);all doses of HXP significantly reduced the levels of hs-CRP and IL-1β(P<0.05,P<0.01)and the myocardial infarction rate and myocardial no-reflow rate(P<0.01).GO enrichment analysis mainly involved positive regulation of gene expression,extracellular space and identical protein binding,KEGG pathway enrichment mainly involved PI3K-Akt signaling pathway and lipid and atherosclerosis.Molecular docking results showed that kaempferol and luteolin had a better affinity with TLR4,NFκB and NLRP3 molecules.The protein expressions of TLR4,NFκB and NLRP3 were reduced in the HXP group(P<0.01).Conclusions:HXP has a significant protective effect on myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats,and its effect may be related to the inhibition of redox response and reduction of the inflammatory response by inhibiting the TLR4/NFκB/NLRP3 signaling pathway.