miR-34a mediates oxaliplatin resistance of colorectal cancer cells by inhibiting macroautophagy via transforming growth factor-β/Smad4 pathway

To investigate whether microRNA (miR)-34a mediates oxaliplatin (OXA) resistance of colorectal cancer (CRC) cells by inhibiting macroautophagy via the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β/Smad4 pathway.METHODSmiR-34a expression levels were detected in CRC tissues and CRC cell lines by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Computational search, functional luciferase assay and western blotting were used to demonstrate the downstream target of miR-34a in CRC cells. Cell viability was measured with Cell Counting Kit-8. Apoptosis and macroautophagy of CRC cells were analyzed by flow cytometry and transmission electron microscopy, and expression of beclin I and LC3-II was detected by western blotting.RESULTSExpression of miR-34a was significantly reduced while expression of TGF-β and Smad4 was increased in CRC patients treated with OXA-based chemotherapy. OXA treatment also resulted in decreased miR-34a levels and increased TGF-β and Smad4 levels in both parental cells and the OXA-resistant CRC cells. Activation of macroautophagy contributed to OXA resistance in CRC cells. Expression levels of Smad4 and miR-34a in CRC patients had a significant inverse correlation and overexpressing miR-34a inhibited macroautophagy activation by directly targeting Smad4 through the TGF-β/Smad4 pathway. OXA-induced downregulation of miR-34a and increased drug resistance by activating macroautophagy in CRC cells.CONCLUSIONmiR-34a mediates OXA resistance of CRC by inhibiting macroautophagy via the TGF-β/Smad4 pathway.

Effects of Tanshinone ⅡA on Transforming Growth Factor β1-Smads Signal Pathway in Renal Interstitial Fibroblasts of Rats

The effects of tanshinone ⅡA （TSN） on transforming growth factor β1 （TGFβ1） signal transduction in renal interstitial fibroblasts of rats were studied in order to investigate its mechanism in prevention of renal interstitial fibrosis. Rat renal fibroblasts of the line NRK/49F were cultured in vitro, stimulated with 5 ng/mL TGFβ1 and pretreated with 10-6, 10-5, 10-4 mol/L TSN respectively. The mRNA levels of fibronectin （FN） were examined by RT-PCR. The protein expression of FN and Smads was detected by Western blot. TGFβ1 induced the expression of FN mRNA and Smads in a time-dependent manner in a certain range. Compared with pre-stimulation, the FN mRNA and protein levels were increased by 1.1 times and 1.5 times respectively （P〈0.01, P〈0.01）, and the protein expression of phosphorylated Smad2/3 （p-Smad2/3） increased by 7 times at the end of TGFβ1 stimulation （P〈0.01）. TSN pretreatment may down-regulate the FN and p-Smad2/3 expression in a dose-dependent manner. 10-6 mol/L TSN pretreatment had no effect on the FN and p-Smad2/3 expression （both P〉0.05）. After pretreatment with 10-5 and 10-4 mol/L TSN, the FN mRNA levels were decreased by 28.1% and 43.8% respectively （P〈0.05, P〈0.01）, the FN protein levels were decreased by 40% and 44% respectively （P〈0.05, P〈0.05）, and the p-Smad2/3 protein expression were decreased by 40% and 65% respectively （P〈0.05, P〈0.01）. The inhibitory effect of TSN on renal interstitial fibrosis may be related to its blocking effect on TGFβ1-Smads signal pathway in renal intersti- tial fibroblasts.

Dihydroergotamine ameliorates liver fibrosis by targeting transforming growth factor β type Ⅱ receptor

BACKGROUND The transforming growth factor β(TGFβ) signaling pathway plays a crucial role in the development of liver fibrosis by activating TGFβ type Ⅱ receptor(TGFβR2), followed by the recruitment of TGFβR1 finally triggering downstream signaling pathway.AIM To find drugs targeting TGFβR2 that inhibit TGFβR1/TGFβR2 complex formation, theoretically inhibit TGFβ signaling pathway, and thereby ameliorate liver fibrosis.METHODS Food and Drug Administration-approved drugs were screened for binding affinity with TGFβR2 by virtual molecular docking. We identified 6 candidates and further explored their potential by Cell Counting Kit-8(CCK-8) cell cytotoxic experiment to validate toxicity and titrated the best cellular working concentrations. Next, we further demonstrated the detailed molecular working mechanisms using mutagenesis analysis. Finally, we used a mouse model to investigate its potential anti-liver fibrosis effect.RESULTS We identified 6 drug candidates. Among these 6 drugs, dihydroergotamine(DHE) shows great ability in reducing fibrotic gene expressions such as collagen, p-SMAD3, and α-SMA in TGFβ induced cellular model of liver fibrosis in LX-2 cells. Furthermore, we demonstrated that DHE binds to TGFβR2. Moreover, mutation of Leu27, Phe30, Thr51, Ser52, Ile53, and Glu55 of TGFβR2 disrupted the binding of TGFβR2 with DHE. In addition, DHE significantly improved liver fibrosis, as evidenced by Masson’s trichrome staining of liver sections. This is further supported by the width and the velocity of the portal vein, and serum markers of liver function. In line with those observations, DHE also decreased macrophages infiltration and extracellular matrix deposition in the liver.CONCLUSION DHE alleviates liver fibrosis by binding to TGFβR2 thereby suppressing TGFβ signaling pathway. We show here that as far as drug repurposing, DHE has great potential to treat liver fibrosis.

Role of transforming growth factor-beta signaling pathway in pathogenesis of benign biliary stricture

AIM: To characterize the expression of members of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β)/Smad/ connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) signaling pathway in the tissue of benign biliary stricture, and to investigate the effect of TGF-β signaling pathway in the pathogenesis of benign biliary stricture. METHODS: Paraffin embedded materials from 23 cases of benign biliary stricture were analyzed for members of the TGF-β/Smad/CTGF signaling pathway. TGF-β_1, TβRⅠ, TβRⅡ, Smad4, Smad7 and CTGF protein were detected by immunohistochemical strepto-advidinbiotin complex method, and CTGF mRNA was evaluated by hybridization in situ, while 6 cases of normal bile duct served as controls. The percentages of positive cells were counted. The correlation between TGF-β_1, Smad4 and CTGF was analyzed. RESULTS: The positive expression ratios of TGF-β_1, TβRⅠ , TβRⅡ , Smad4, CTGF and CTGF mRNA in 23 cases with benign biliary stricture were 91.3%, 82.6%, 87.0%, 78.3%, 82.6% and 65.2%, respectively, signifi cantly higher than that in 6 cases of normal bile duct respectively (vs 33.3%, 16.7%, 50.0%, 33.3%, 50.0%, 16.7%, respectively, P < 0.05). The positiveexpression ratio of Smad7 in cases with benign biliary stricture was 70.0%, higher than that in normal bile duct, but this difference is not statistically signifi cant 70.0% vs 50%, P > 0.05). There was a positive correlation between positive expression of TGF-β_1, Smad4 and CTGF in cases with benign biliary stricture. CONCLUSION: The high expression of TGF-β/Smad/ CTGF signaling pathway plays an important role in the pathogenesis of benign biliary stricture.

Roles of Smad3 and Smad7 in rat pancreatic stellate cells activated by transforming growth factor-beta 1

BACKGROUND: Pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) play a major role in promoting pancreatic fibrosis. Transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-beta 1) is a critical mediator of this process. This study aimed to determine the expression of the Smad3 and Smad7 genes in the process of PSC activation, and explore the mechanisms of chronic pancreatitis. METHODS: The expressions of Smad3 and Smad7 in PSCs before and after TGF-beta 1 treatment were detected by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting analysis. Smad3 expression was detected in PSCs after treatment with 5 ng/ml of TGF-beta 1 for 24 hours. RESULTS: Smad7 expression was decreased in TGF-beta 1 -activated PSCs (P<0.05) in a dose-dependent manner. When TGF-beta 1 concentration reached 10 ng/ml, the expression of p-Smad3, Smad3, and Smad7 was inhibited (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: TGF-beta 1 promotes the expression of Smad3 and inhibits the expression of Smad7 during the activation of PSCs. In contrast, high-dose TGF-beta 1 downregulates the expression of Smad3 in completely activated PSCs.

Effects of the Nocth signaling pathway on expression of inflammatory factors and transforming growth factors in diabetic foot ulcers

Objective:persistent hyperinflammation is an important reason for the development of diabetic foot ulcer.Notch signaling is an important signaling pathway involved in the inflammatory response and cell proliferation in diabetic foot ulcer rats.This paper aims to explore the effect of Notch signaling on inflammatory factors,chemokines and growth factors through the intervention of Notch signaling in diabetic foot ulcer rats.Methods:the experimental model was made by using high-fat feed combined with streptozotocin(STZ)to cause diabetes,and the experimental model of diabetic foot ulcer was established by constant temperature and constant pressure scald apparatus.The normal ulcer model was used as a control.The intervention controls of the experimental model included normal saline,western medicine growth factor,Notch agonist Jagged1,Notch signaling inhibitor ly-411575,and the intervention of traditional Chinese medicine Zizhu ointment for 7 days.Serum il-1,il-6,TNF-radiation,and il-17 were detected by ELISA.Real-time PCR was used to detect the inflammatory factors,chemokines,and growth factors associated with Notch signaling in wound tissues:tnf-uum,il-1,il-6,il-17,interleukin-8,ip-10,McP-1,TGF-uum,TGF-livelihood.Results:serum levels of il-1,il-6,TNF-radiation and il-17 in diabetic foot ulcer rats were significantly higher than that in normal ulcer rats.The contents of il-1,il-6,TNF-radiation and il-17a in ly-411575 group and Zizhu ointment group were significantly reduced.Real-time PCR results of wound tissue showed that the levels of inflammatory cytokines il-1,il-6,TNF-radiation,il-17 and chemokines ip-10,il-8 and McP-1 in the wound tissue of diabetic foot ulcer rat model were significantly higher than that of normal ulcer model,and the levels of growth factor TGF-exposure were lower than that of normal ulcer model.LY-411575 significantly reduced il-1,il-6,TNF-maxima,il-17,and the chemokines ip-10,il-8,and McP-1 in diabetic foot ulcer rats,and reduced the expression of TGF-,TGF-earth.Jagged1 can increase the expression of TGF--,TGF---,suggesting that inhibition of the Notch signaling pathway can reduce the expression of the inflammatory factors il-1,il-6,TNF--,il-17a,il-8,and the growth factors TGF--,TGF---.Zizhu ointment can reduce the levels of il-1,il-6,TNF-benand,il-17,and the chemokines ip-10,il-8,and McP-1 on the wound surface of diabetic foot rats,and improve the expression of TGF-benand TGF-SUNS.Ly-411575 inhibited the expression of TGF-bento and TGF-promoting of Zizhu ointment.Conclusion:the expression of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines was higher and the expression of growth factors was lower in diabetic foot ulcer rats than in normal ulcer rats.Inhibition of Notch signaling pathway can reduce the expression of inflammatory factors,chemokines and growth factors in experimental model rats,and Notch signaling pathway can promote inflammation and cell proliferation.Zizhu ointment can reduce the levels of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in diabetic foot ulcer rats,improve the expression of growth factors,and reduce wound inflammation,which may be related to the inhibition of Nocth signal expression.

Transforming growth factor-β and fibrosis

Transforming growth factor-β （TGF-β）, a prototype of multifunctional cytokine, is a key regulator of extracellular matrix （ECM） assembly and remodeling. Specifically, TGF-β isoforms have the ability to induce the expression of ECM proteins in mesenchymal cells, and to stimulate the production of protease inhibitors that prevent enzymatic breakdown of the ECM. Elevated TGF-β expression in affected organs, and subsequent deregulation of TGF-β functions, correlates with the abnormal connective tissue deposition observed during the onset of fibrotic diseases. During the last few years, tremendous progress has been made in the understanding of the molecular aspects of intracellular signaling downstream of the TGF-β receptors. In particular, Smad proteins, TGF-β receptor kinase substrates that translocate into the cell nucleus to act as transcription factors, have been studied extensively. The role of Smad3 in the transcriptional regulation of type I collagen gene expression and in the development of fibrosis, demonstrated both/n vitro and in animal models with a targeted deletion of Smad3, is of critical importance because it may lead to novel therapeutic strategies against these diseases. This review focuses on the mechanisms underlying Smad modulation of fibrillar collagen expression and how it relates to fibrotic processes.

Interaction between insulin-like growth factor binding protein-related protein 1 and transforming growth factor beta 1 in primary hepatic stellate cells

BACKGROUND: We previously showed that insulin-like growth factor binding protein-related protein 1 (IGFBPrP1) is a novel mediator in liver fibrosis. Transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF beta 1) is known as the strongest effector of liver fibrosis. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the detailed interaction between IGFBPrP1 and TGF beta 1 in primary hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). METHODS: We overexpressed TGF beta 1 or IGFBPrP1 and inhibited TGF beta 1 expression in primary HSCs for 6, 12, 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours to investigate their interaction and observe the accompanying expressions of a-smooth muscle actin (alpha-SMA), collagen I, fibronectin, and phosphorylated-mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 2/3 (p-Smad2/3). RESULTS: We found that the adenovirus vector encoding the TGF beta 1 gene (AdTGF beta 1) induced IGFBPrP1 expression while that of alpha-SMA, collagen I, fibronectin, and TGF beta 1 increased gradually. Concomitantly, AdIGFBPrP1 upregulated TGF beta 1, alpha-SMA, collagen I, fibronectin, and p-Smad2/3 in a time-dependent manner while IGFBPrP1 expression was decreased at 96 hours. Inhibition of TGF beta 1 expression reduced the IGFBPrP1-stimulated expression of alpha-SMA, collagen I, fibronectin, and p-Smad2/3. CONCLUSIONS: These findings for the first time suggest the existence of a possible mutually regulation between IGFBPrP1 and TGF beta 1, which likely accelerates liver fibrosis progression. Furthermore, IGFBPrP1 likely participates in liver fibrosis in a TGF beta 1-depedent manner, and may act as an upstream regulatory factor of TGF beta 1 in the Smad pathway.

Transforming growth factor-β and smooth muscle differentiation

Transforming growth factor(TGF)-β family members are multifunctional cytokines regulating diverse cel- lular functions such as growth,adhesion,migration, apoptosis,and differentiation.TGF-βs elicit their effects via specific typeⅠand typeⅡserine/threonine kinase receptors and intracellular Smad transcription factors. Knockout mouse models for the different components of the TGF-β signaling pathway have revealed their critical roles in smooth muscle cell(SMC)differentia- tion.Genetic studies in humans have linked mutations in these signaling components to specific cardiovascular disorders such as aorta aneurysm and congenital heart diseases due to SMC defects.In this review,the current understanding of TGF-β function in SMC differentiation is highlighted,and the role of TGF-βsignaling in SMC- related diseases is discussed.

Total flavone of Abelmoschus manihot suppresses epithelial-mesenchymal transition via interfering transforming growth factor-β1 signaling in Crohn's disease intestinal fibrosis

AIM To explore the role and mechanism of total flavone of Abelmoschus manihot(TFA) on epithelial-mesenchymal transition(EMT) progress of Crohn's disease(CD) intestinal fibrosis.METHODS First,CCK-8 assay was performed to assess TFA on the viability of intestinal epithelial(IEC-6) cells and select the optimal concentrations of TFA for our further studies.Then cell morphology,wound healing and transwell assays were performed to examine the effect of TFA on morphology,migration and invasion of IEC-6 cells treated with TGF-β1.In addition,immunofluorescence,real-time PCR analysis(q RT-PCR) and western blotting assays were carried out to detect the impact of TFA on EMT progress.Moreover,western blotting assay was performed to evaluate the function of TFA on the Smad and MAPK signaling pathways.Further,the role of co-treatment of TFA and si-Smad or MAPK inhibitors has been examined by q RTPCR,western blotting,morphology,wound healing andtranswell assays.RESULTS In this study,TFA promoted transforming growth factor-β1(TGF-β1)-induced(IEC-6) morphological change,migration and invasion,and increased the expression of epithelial markers and reduced the levels of mesenchymal markers,along with the inactivation of Smad and MAPK signaling pathways.Moreover,we revealed that si-Smad and MAPK inhibitors effectively attenuated TGF-β1-induced EMT in IEC-6 cells.Importantly,co-treatment of TFA and si-Smad or MAPK inhibitors had better inhibitory effects on TGF-β1-induced EMT in IEC-6 cells than either one of them.CONCLUSION These findings could provide new insight into the molecular mechanisms of TFA on TGF-β1-induced EMT in IEC-6 cells and TFA is expected to advance as a new therapy to treat CD intestinal fibrosis.

Feedback regulation between phosphatidylinositol-3,4,5-trisphosphate dependent Rac exchange factor 1 and transforming growth factor β1 and prognostic value in gastric cancer

BACKGROUND Phosphatidylinositol-3,4,5-trisphosphate dependent Rac exchange factor 1(PREX1)was reported to be overexpressed in some cancers and involved in cancer development,but its expression and significance in gastric cancer remain unclear.AIM To evaluate the expression of PREX1 in gastric cancer and its significance in the development of gastric cancer,especially to evaluate the potential mechanism of PREX1 in gastric cancer.METHODS Bioinformatic analysis was performed in order to examine the expression of PREX1 in gastric cancer.The relationship between the survival rate of gastric cancer patients and PREX1 expression was assessed by Kaplan Meier portal.The Gene Set Enrichment Analysis and the correlation between PREX1 and transforming growth factor(TGF)β1 pathway-related mediators were evaluated by cBioPortal for Cancer Genomics.Western blotting and reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction assay were used to test the role of TGFβ1 on the expression of PREX1.Western blotting and dual-luciferase reporter system was used to evaluate the effect of PREX1 on the activation of TGFβ1 pathway.Wound healing and Transwell assay were used to assess the effect of PREX1 on the metastasis activity of gastric cancer cells.RESULTS PREX1 was overexpressed in the gastric tumors,and the expression levels were positively associated with the development of gastric cancer.Also,the high expression of PREX1 revealed poor prognosis,especially for those advanced and specific intestinal gastric cancer patients.PREX1 was closely involved in the positive regulation of cell adhesion and positively correlated with TGFβ1-related mediators.Furthermore,TGFβ1 could induce the expression of PREX1 at both the protein and mRNA level.Also,PREX1 could activate the TGFβ1 pathway.The induced PREX1 could increase the migration and invasion activity of gastric cancer cells.CONCLUSION PREX1 is overexpressed in gastric cancer,and the high level of PREX1 predicts poor prognosis.PREX1 is closely associated with TGFβsignaling and promotes the metastasis of gastric cancer cells.

Saponin Ⅰ from Shuitianqi(Rhizoma Schizocapasae Plantagineae) inhibits metastasis by negatively regulating the transforming growth factor-β1/Smad7 network and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in the intrahepatic metastasis Bagg's Albino/c mouse model

OBJECTIVE:To examine the influence of SaponinⅠfrom Shuitianqi(Rhizoma Schizocapasae Plantagineae)(SSPHⅠ)on hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)metastasis,and to elucidate the underlying mechanism.METHODS:The intrahepatic metastasis Bagg's Albino/c(BALB/c)mouse model was established with human hepatocellular carcinomas(HepG2)cells,then treated with normal saline(once per day),cisplatin(2 mg/kg,once every 2 d),and SSPHⅠ(25,50,and 75 mg/kg,once per day).Then,we assessed alterations in the hepatic pathology and target protein expressions in the intrahepatic metastasis BALB/c mouse model using a series of molecular biology techniques.RESULTS:Based on our analysis,SSPHⅠsignificantly alleviated hepatocyte necrosis and tumor cells infiltration.Moreover,SSPHⅠsuppressed extracellular matrix(ECM)degradation and angiogenesis via a decrease in matrix etalloproteinase-2(MMP-2),MMP-9,CD31,CD34,and vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF)levels.Furthermore,SSPHⅠrepressed invasion and metastasis by suppressing the transforming growth factor-β1(TGF-β1)/Smad7 axis and epithelial-mesenchymal transition(EMT),as evidenced by the scarce TGF-β1,Ncadherin,and Vimentin expressions,and elevated Smad7 and E-cadherin expressions.CONCLUSION:The SSPHⅠ-mediated negative regulation of the TGF-β1/Smad7 axis and EMT are critical for the inhibition of HCC invasion and metastasis.

入院时血清TGF-β1、Smad2、Smad3、HA、LN、PCⅢ、CⅣ水平与CHB肝纤维化严重程度的相关性及对疾病预后的预测价值

目的探讨入院时血清转化生长因子-β1(TGF-β1)、Smad同源蛋白2(Smad2)、Smad同源蛋白3(Smad3)及透明质酸(HA)、Ⅲ型前胶原(PCⅢ)、层黏连蛋白(LN)、Ⅳ型胶原(CⅣ)水平与慢性乙型肝炎(CHB)肝纤维化严重程度的相关性及联合检测对疾病预后的预测价值。方法选取河南省中医院2021年3月至2022年3月收治的78例CHB肝纤维化患者作为研究组,选择同期78名健康体检者作为对照组。比较研究组和对照组及不同肝纤维化分期、不同炎症活动分级CHB肝纤维化患者入院时血清TGF-β1、Smad2、Smad3、HA、PCⅢ、LN、CⅣ水平;分析入院时血清TGF-β1、Smad2、Smad3、HA、PCⅢ、LN、CⅣ水平与肝纤维化分期、炎症活动分级的相关性。CHB肝纤维化患者治疗3个月后,根据患者预后分为预后良好和预后不良亚组,比较预后良好和预后不良患者入院时血清TGF-β1、Smad2、Smad3、HA、PCⅢ、LN、CⅣ水平;分析入院时血清TGF-β1、Smad2、Smad3、HA、PCⅢ、LN、CⅣ水平联合检测对CHB肝纤维化患者预后不良的预测价值。结果研究组入院时血清TGF-β1、Smad2、Smad3、HA、LN、PCⅢ、CⅣ高于对照组(P<0.05);不同肝纤维化分期、炎症活动分级CHB肝纤维化患者入院时血清TGF-β1、Smad2、Smad3、HA、LN、PCⅢ、CⅣ比较:S1<S2<S3<S4、G1<G2<G3<G4,差异有统计学意义(P<0.05);入院时血清TGF-β1、Smad2、Smad3、HA、LN、PCⅢ、CⅣ水平与肝纤维化分期、炎症活动分级均呈正相关(P<0.05)。预后良好患者入院时血清TGF-β1、Smad2、Smad3、HA、LN、PCⅢ、CⅣ水平均低于预后不良患者(P<0.05);入院时血清TGF-β1、Smad2、Smad3、HA、LN、PCⅢ、CⅣ水平联合预测肝纤维化患者预后不良的曲线下面积(AUC)优于各指标单一检测(P<0.05)。结论CHB肝纤维化患者入院时血清TGF-β1、Smad2、Smad3、HA、PCⅢ、LN、CⅣ水平均呈现高表达,且与肝纤维化分期、炎症活动分级密切相关,其联合检测对CHB肝纤维化患者预后有较高的预测价值,可用于评估CHB肝纤维化患者病情严重程度和预后,为制定针对性治疗措施提供参考。

miR-19a调控TGF-β1/Smad信号通路对胃癌细胞增殖、侵袭及糖酵解的影响

目的:探究微小RNA-19a(miR-19a)通过调控转化生长因子-β1(TGF-β1)/Smad信号通路对人胃癌AGS细胞增殖、侵袭和糖酵解的影响。方法:体外培养人胃癌AGS细胞,采用脂质体进行转染分别将inhibitor NC、mimics NC、miR-19a inhibitor、miR-19a mimics转染至人胃癌AGS细胞记为inhibitor NC组、mimics NC组、miR-19a inhibitor组和miR-19a mimics组,不做转染处理的为对照组,通过实时荧光定量PCR(RT-qPCR)法检测miR-19a的表达量,用细胞计数试剂盒-8(CCK-8)检测细胞活力,发现敲低miR-19a可显著抑制胃癌AGS细胞活力。所以后续实验分为对照组、inhibitor NC组、miR-19a inhibitor组、抑制剂组(miR-19a inhibitor转染+10μmol/L TGF-β1/Smad通路抑制剂LY2109761)和激活剂组(miR-19a inhibitor转染+10μmol/L TGF-β1/Smad通路激活剂SRI-011381),采用RT-qPCR法、5-乙炔基-2'脱氧尿嘧啶核苷(EdU)、Transwell小室、乳酸、葡萄糖检测试剂盒及蛋白免疫印迹(WB)法分别对细胞miR-19a的表达、增殖率、侵袭数、乳酸含量、葡萄糖消耗水平及糖酵解、TGF-β1/Smad相关蛋白表达水平进行分析。结果:敲低miR-19a可显著抑制胃癌AGS细胞活力,所以选用转染miR-19a inhibitor进行后续通路验证实验。结果发现,对照组与inhibitor NC组在miR-19a的表达水平、细胞增殖率、侵袭数、葡萄糖消耗及乳酸水平、增殖细胞核抗原(PCNA)、己糖激酶2(HK2)、乳酸脱氢酶A(LDHA)、甘油醛-3-磷酸脱氢酶(GAPDH)、TGF-β1、p-Smad3蛋白表达水平等各项指标均无统计学差异(P>0.05)。miR-19a inhibitor组细胞miR-19a的表达、增殖率、侵袭数、葡萄糖消耗及乳酸水平、PCNA、HK2、LDHA、GAPDH、TGF-β1、p-Smad3蛋白水平低于inhibitor NC组(P<0.05)。抑制剂组细胞miR-19a的表达、增殖率、侵袭数、葡萄糖消耗及乳酸水平、PCNA、HK2、LDHA、GAPDH、TGF-β1、p-Smad3蛋白表达水平低于miR-19a inhibitor组,而激活剂组这些指标高于miR-19a inhibitor组(P<0.05)。结论:下调miR-19a可抑制人胃癌AGS细胞增殖、侵袭和糖酵解,其作用机制与阻滞TGF-β1/Smad信号转导有关。

活血利水复方对自发性高血压大鼠转化生长因子-β1/SMAD家族蛋白信号通路介导下游结缔组织生长因子及Ⅰ、Ⅲ型胶原表达及血管重塑的影响

目的:基于转化生长因子-β1/SMAD家族蛋白信号通路探讨活血利水中药复方对自发性高血压大鼠血管重塑的保护作用及机制。方法:将自发性高血压大鼠随机分为模型组、卡托普利组、活血利水复方低剂量组、活血利水复方中剂量组、活血利水复方高剂量组,Wistar大鼠作为空白组,每组10只。给予相应药物灌胃,4周后采用酶联免疫吸附试验方法检测血清中C反应蛋白、肿瘤坏死因子-α、白细胞介素-6的含量;采用逆转录聚合酶链反应检测大鼠主动脉组织转化生长因子-β1、结缔组织生长因子及Ⅰ型胶原、Ⅲ型胶原mRNA表达,并取冠状动脉组织进行马松三色染色。结果:与空白组比较,模型组血清中C反应蛋白、肿瘤坏死因子-α、白细胞介素-6的含量显著升高(P<0.01);与模型组比较,各药物组大鼠干预后血清中C反应蛋白、肿瘤坏死因子-α、白细胞介素-6的含量不同程度降低(P<0.01)。其中,卡托普利组和活血利水复方高剂量组上述3项指标表达最低,与其他组的差异有统计学意义(P<0.05或P<0.01);卡托普利组和活血利水复方高剂量组比较,差异无统计学意义(P>0.05)。与空白组比较,模型组大鼠主动脉转化生长因子-β1、结缔组织生长因子及Ⅰ型胶原、Ⅲ型胶原mRNA表达显著升高(P<0.01);与模型组比较,卡托普利组及活血利水复方低剂量组、活血利水复方中剂量组、活血利水复方高剂量组大鼠主动脉组织转化生长因子-β1、结缔组织生长因子及Ⅰ型胶原、Ⅲ型胶原mRNA表达不同程度降低(P<0.05或P<0.01)。结论:活血利水中药复方可通过调控转化生长因子-β1/SMAD家族蛋白信号通路及下游结缔组织生长因子及Ⅰ型胶原、Ⅲ型胶原mRNA表达水平,降低C反应蛋白、肿瘤坏死因子-α、白细胞介素-6等炎症因子的表达,抑制炎症反应,从而改善高血压病炎症状态及血管重塑,其机制可能与降低转化生长因子-β1、结缔组织生长因子及Ⅰ型胶原、Ⅲ型胶原蛋白沉积有关。

Effect of Tuina along“bladder meridian”alleviating intervertebral disc degeneration by regulating the transforming growth factor-β1/Smad signaling pathway in a rabbit model

OBJECTIVE:The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effects of Tuina(a traditional Chinese massage therapy)on intervertebral disc(IVD)degeneration and the regulatory mechanisms of the transforming growth factor-β1(TGF-β1)/small mothers against decapentaplegic(Smad)signaling pathway.METHODS:Thirty New Zealand white rabbits were randomized into five groups:the control group,model group,model+Tuina group(Tuina group),model+TGF-β1 group(TGF-β1 group),and model+TGF-β1 inhibitor SB431542 group(SB431542 group).The model was established by posterolateral annulus fibrosus puncturing(AFP).Recombinant TGF-β1 and inhibitor SB431542 was injected into the TGF-β1 group and SB431542 group with a microsyringe,respectively.The rabbits in the Tuina group received Tuina treatment along the bladder meridian for 4 weeks.Magnetic resonance imaging(MRI)was performed on rabbits before AFP and after 4 weeks of intervention.Lumbar IVDs(L2-L3 to L4-L5)were harvested after intervention.Histopathological changes in the IVDs were measured by hematoxylin and eosin(HE)staining.Type I collagen was analyzed by immunohistochemistry detection.The expression level of matrix metalloproteinase-3(MMP3)was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.Cell apoptosis was evaluated by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferasemediated nick end labeling and Western blotting.Realtime polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting were used to analyze the expression of TGF-β1 and Smad2/3/4 and a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs 5.RESULTS:Posterolateral AFP induced IVD degeneration in rabbits with histopathological damage and noticeable changes in MRI images.Tuina alleviated histopathological changes and reversed the expression of extracellular matrix degeneration-related molecules and apoptosis-related proteins.Furthermore,AFP induced the activation of TGF-β1 and Smad2/3/4,whereas Tuina therapy markedly reduced the protein expression of Smad2/3 and the gene expression of TGF-β1 and Smad2/3/4.Additionally,the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway was activated in the TGF-β1 group,while the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway was inhibited in the SB431542 group.CONCLUSION:Posterolateral AFP induced disc degeneration as determined by MRI assessment and histological analysis.Tuina alleviated disc degeneration,possibly by inhibiting the fibrotic response mediated by the TGF-β1/Smad pathway,thus alleviating extracellular matrix degeneration and reducing cell apoptosis.

有氧运动调节转化生长因子β/Smad通路缓解db/db糖尿病小鼠的肝脏纤维化

背景:有氧运动可抑制糖尿病小鼠肝纤维化,但具体作用机制尚未阐明。目的:基于转化生长因子β/Smad信号通路探讨有氧运动改善db/db小鼠肝纤维化的作用机制。方法:将8周龄雄性db/db小鼠和年龄匹配的m/m小鼠随机分为m/m对照组、m/m+运动组、db/db对照组、db/db+运动组,每组10只,运动组小鼠接受12周有氧运动。运动结束后检测各组小鼠空腹血糖,进行葡萄糖耐量测试和胰岛素耐量测试;摘取肝脏计算肝脏指数,摘眼球取血检测生化指标;苏木精-伊红染色、油红O染色和Masson染色观察小鼠肝组织的病理变化,免疫组化检测肝组织中转化生长因子β1、p-Smad3的表达;Western blot检测肝组织中转化生长因子β1、Smad3、p-Smad3、α-平滑肌肌动蛋白、Ⅰ型胶原蛋白和Ⅲ型胶原蛋白表达水平。结果与结论:①与m/m组和m/m+运动组小鼠相比,db/db组小鼠体质量、肝质量、肝脏指数、空腹血糖、三酰甘油、总胆固醇、低密度脂蛋白和肌酶水平均显著升高(P<0.01);高密度脂蛋白水平显著降低(P<0.01);转化生长因子β1、p-Smad3、α-平滑肌肌动蛋白、Ⅰ型胶原蛋白和Ⅲ型胶原蛋白表达水平显著升高(P<0.01);葡萄糖、胰岛素耐量测试的曲线下面积显著增加(P<0.01);肝组织病理染色显示大量炎症细胞浸润,脂滴增多,明显纤维化;②与db/db组相比,db/db+运动组小鼠体质量、肝质量、肝脏指数、空腹血糖、三酰甘油、总胆固醇、低密度脂蛋白和肌酶水平显著降低(P<0.05或P<0.01);高密度脂蛋白水平显著升高(P<0.05);转化生长因子β1、p-Smad3、α-平滑肌肌动蛋白、Ⅰ型胶原蛋白和Ⅲ型胶原蛋白表达显著降低(P<0.05或P<0.01);此外,糖耐量、胰岛素耐量测试的曲线下面积明显减少(P<0.01,P<0.05),肝脏病理损伤得到明显改善;③结果表明,有氧运动有效减轻了糖尿病小鼠肝纤维化,其机制可能与调控转化生长因子β/Smad信号通路有关。

麻黄碱调控TGF-β1/Smads通路对支气管哮喘小鼠气道重塑的影响

目的 探究麻黄碱对支气管哮喘小鼠气道重塑的影响及对转化生长因子β1(TGF-β1)/Smads通路的调控作用。方法 将所有小鼠随机分为对照组、模型组、地塞米松组、麻黄碱低剂量组、麻黄碱高剂量组、麻黄碱高+TGF-β1激活剂组,每组12只。除对照组,其余组小鼠腹腔注射含有40μg卵清蛋白(OVA)和2 mg 10%氢氧化铝的致敏液诱导哮喘模型。8周后,检测各组小鼠气道高反应性;对支气管肺泡灌洗液(BALF)中嗜酸性粒细胞进行计数;ELISA检测BALF中白细胞介素(IL)-4、IL-5和IL-13的水平;苏木精-伊红(HE)染色和Masson染色观察小鼠肺组织的病理学变化及胶原纤维面积;免疫组织化学检测小鼠肺组织中α-平滑肌肌动蛋白(α-SMA)表达;Western blot检测小鼠肺组织中TGF-β1/Smads通路相关蛋白的表达。结果 与对照组相比,模型组小鼠不同乙酰甲胆碱剂量下的气道高反应性、气道壁的总面积(Wat)/基底膜的周长(Pbm)比值、胶原纤维面积、嗜酸性粒细胞及IL-4、IL-5、IL-13含量、α-SMA、TGF-β1表达及p-Smad2/Smad2、p-Smad3/Smad3比值均升高(P<0.05),Smad7表达降低(P<0.05);与模型组相比,地塞米松组和麻黄碱低、高剂量组小鼠不同乙酰甲胆碱剂量下的气道高反应性、Wat/Pbm比值、胶原纤维面积、嗜酸性粒细胞及IL-4、IL-5、IL-13含量、α-SMA、TGF-β1表达及p-Smad2/Smad2、p-Smad3/Smad3比值均降低(P<0.05),Smad7表达升高(P<0.05);与麻黄碱高剂量组相比,麻黄碱高+TGF-β1激活剂组小鼠不同乙酰甲胆碱剂量下的气道高反应性、Wat/Pbm比值、胶原纤维面积、嗜酸性粒细胞及IL-4、IL-5、IL-13含量、α-SMA、TGF-β1表达及p-Smad2/Smad2、pSmad3/Smad3比值均升高(P<0.05),Smad7表达降低(P<0.05)。结论 麻黄碱可以改善支气管哮喘小鼠的气道重塑,其机制与调控TGF-β1/Smads信号通路有关。

参麦注射液通过调控TGF-β/Smads信号通路改善慢性心力衰竭大鼠心室重构的作用研究

目的:研究参麦注射液对慢性心力衰竭(CHF)模型大鼠心脏功能改善的作用机制。方法:将40只大鼠按照随机数字表法分为假手术组(0.9%氯化钠注射液,肌内注射)、模型组(0.9%氯化钠注射液,肌内注射)、阳性对照组(缬沙坦10 mg/kg,灌胃给药)和SMI组(参麦注射液0.38 mL/kg,肌内注射),每组10只。除假手术组外,其余各组大鼠均采用左冠状动脉前降支结扎法制备CHF模型。造模成功后,每组大鼠1日给药1次,连续28 d。采用超声心动仪观测大鼠左心室变化并结合血流动力学改变评估心功能状况,应用酶联免疫吸附试验测定N末端B型利钠肽原(NT-proBNP)、转化生长因子-β1(TGF-β1)、基质金属蛋白酶-9(MMP-9)、结缔组织生长因子(CTGF)水平,利用苏木精-伊红染色及MASSON染色观察心肌形态学变化。通过实时定量逆转录聚合酶链式反应检测TGF-β1、Smad蛋白(Smad)2、Smad3及Smad7表达水平。结果:与假手术组相比,模型组大鼠左心室射血分数(LVEF)、左心室短轴缩短率(LVFS)、收缩末期左心室后壁厚度(LVPWs)、流出道血流峰值、左心室内压(LVP)、左心室收缩压(LVSP)、左心室压力最大上升速率和最大下降速率(+dp/dt_(max),-dp/dt_(min))均明显降低,收缩末期左心室容积(LV Vols)、内径(LVIDs)和左心室舒张末压(LVEDP)明显升高;血清NT-proBNP、TGF-β1、MMP-9和CTGF水平显著升高;心肌组织中TGF-β1、Smad2、Smad3的mRNA表达程度升高,Smad7 mRNA表达程度降低,上述差异均有统计学意义(P<0.01)。形态学结果显示,CHF大鼠存活心肌细胞少,结构凌乱,纤维化程度严重。与模型组相比,SMI组可显著提升CHF大鼠心脏LVEF、LVFS和LVPWs水平,减少LV vols、LVIDs,改善血流动力学情况,降低NT-proBNP、TGF-β1、MMP-9和CTGF水平,显著下调心肌TGF-β1、Smad2、Smad3 mRNA表达并上调Smad7 mRNA表达水平,差异均有统计学意义(P<0.01)。参麦注射液可抑制心肌细胞坏死,减轻心肌纤维化。结论:参麦注射液可通过提高心功能,改善血流动力学,减轻心肌损伤,降低纤维化程度,并调控TGF-β/Smads信号通路等多途径实现抑制心室重构作用,发挥抗CHF作用。

帕立骨化醇对肾性骨病大鼠骨代谢及TGF-β/BMP-7/Smad通路的影响

目的:探讨帕立骨化醇对肾性骨病(ROD)大鼠骨代谢及转化生长因子-β(TGF-β)/骨形态发生蛋白-7(BMP-7)/Smad通路的影响。方法:将90只大鼠随机分为6组:对照组、模型组、帕立骨化醇低剂量(0.2μg/kg)组、帕立骨化醇中剂量(0.4μg/kg)组、帕立骨化醇高剂量(0.8μg/kg)组、骨化三醇(10μg/kg)组,每组15只,对照组大鼠以普通饲料喂养,其余各组大鼠用含有腺嘌呤的饲料喂养,诱导建立ROD模型。分组进行药物治疗后,测定各组大鼠肾功能指标血尿素氮(BUN)与血肌酐(Scr)水平、血钙与血磷水平、股骨骨密度(BMD)、股骨生物力学指标最大载荷、弹性模量与屈服载荷、血清炎症因子IL-6、IL-17水平;采用蛋白免疫印迹法检测骨组织TGF-β/BMP-7/Smad通路蛋白表达情况。再次取45只大鼠随机分为3组:帕立骨化醇(0.8μg/kg)组、TGF-β抑制(LY2157299,150 mg/kg)组、帕立骨化醇(0.8μg/kg)+TGF-β抑制(LY2157299,150 mg/kg)组,每组15只,同样方法建立ROD模型。分组以药物治疗后,测定各组大鼠肾功能指标与股骨生物力学指标水平。结果:与对照组比较,模型组大鼠血钙水平、BMD、弹性模量、最大载荷、屈服载荷、骨组织TGF-β/BMP-7/Smad通路蛋白TGF-β及BMP-7表达、p-Smad3/Smad3显著降低(P<0.05),BUN与Scr水平、血磷水平、血清IL-6与IL-17水平显著升高(P<0.05)。与模型组比较,帕立骨化醇低、中、高剂量组和骨化三醇组大鼠血钙水平、BMD、弹性模量、最大载荷、屈服载荷、骨组织TGF-β/BMP-7/Smad通路蛋白TGF-β及BMP-7表达、p-Smad3/Smad3均升高,BUN与Scr水平、血磷水平、血清IL-6与IL-17水平均降低,且帕立骨化醇各组之间呈剂量依赖性(P<0.05),帕立骨化醇高剂量组和骨化三醇组比较,大鼠各指标差异无统计学意义(P>0.05)。与帕立骨化醇+TGF-β抑制组比较,帕立骨化醇组大鼠肾功能指标BUN、Scr与血磷水平降低(P<0.05),血钙水平、BMD、弹性模量、最大载荷、屈服载荷升高(P<0.05);TGF-β抑制组大鼠肾功能指标BUN、Scr与血磷水平升高(P<0.05),血钙水平、BMD、弹性模量、最大载荷、屈服载荷降低(P<0.05)。结论:帕立骨化醇可通过激活TGF-β/BMP-7/Smad信号通路抑制炎症反应,改善ROD大鼠肾功能及骨代谢异常,降低血磷水平,提高血钙水平及骨密度,修复骨生物力学,改善骨病症状。