Activated Protein C Resistance in Patients with Pre-Eclampsia in Lagos, Nigeria

Background: Preeclampsia is reported to complicate 2% - 8% of pregnancies globally and is an important cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. The aetiology and pathogenesis are still poorly understood and substantial improvement has not been made in the prediction, prevention and treatment of the disease. Objective: To compare the frequency of activated protein C resistance (APC-R) in patients with pre-eclampsia to that of normotensive pregnant women and to determine the correlation between activated protein ratio (APC-ratio) and the severity of pre-eclampsia. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was carried out in 100 pre-eclamptic patients and 100 normotensive pregnant controls. The APC-ratio was determined using the modified activated partial thromboplastin time. Study participants with APC-ratio of less than 2.0 were defined as having APC-R. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 22.0. Results: Mean APC-ratio was significantly lower in pre-eclamptics (2.89 ± 1.70) compared to normotensive pregnant women (3.57 ± 1.06) (p = 0.0008) and the levels were also higher in mild (2.95 ± 1.15) compared to severe pre-eclamptics (2.62 ± 1.14). The frequency of APC-R was 26% among women with pre-eclampsia compared to 4% among normotensive controls (p = 0.000). Among 100 pre-eclamptic women 7 (21.2%) out of 33 with mild pre–eclampsia had APC-R, while 19 (28.4%) out of 67 with severe pre-eclampsia had APC-R. APC-ratio had a significant negative correlation with mean arterial blood pressure (r = −0.324;p = 0.000) and proteinuria (r = −0.379;p = 0.000) among study participants. Conclusion: The frequency of activated protein c resistance is significantly higher in pre-eclamptics compared to normotensive pregnant women and this is more pronounced in those with severe pre-eclampsia compared with those with mild disease. APC-R may therefore be used as a marker of severity in the disease.

老年重症肺炎患者血清4-HNE、APC、sCD163预测预后不良的价值

目的探讨老年重症肺炎(SP)患者血清4-羟基壬烯醛(4-HNE)、活化蛋白C(APC)、可溶性血红蛋白清道夫受体163(sCD163)对预后不良的预测价值。方法选取2020年8月至2022年8月新乡医学院第一附属医院收治的200例老年SP患者纳入SP组,另选取同期、同年龄段200例老年普通肺炎患者纳入普通肺炎组。比较两组患者和SP组不同预后患者的血清4-HNE、APC、sCD163水平,并采用Pearson法分析SP组患者血清4-HNE、APC、sCD163水平与肺部感染评分(CPIS评分)的相关性,采用Logistic回归分析老年SP患者死亡的影响因素,采用受试者工作特性曲线(ROC)分析各指标对预后情况的预测效能。结果SP组患者的血清4-HNE、sCD163水平分别为(21.27±4.02)mg/L、(154.27±56.34)pg/mL,明显高于普通肺炎组的(15.63±3.49)mg/L、(112.17±37.59)pg/mL,APC水平为(25.47±5.06)pmol/L,明显低于普通肺炎组的(30.12±6.14)pmol/L,差异均具有统计学意义(P<0.05);经Pearson法分析结果显示,入院时SP患者的血清4-HNE、sCD163水平与CPIS评分呈正相关(r=0.754、0.723,P<0.05),APC水平与之呈负相关(r=-0.695,P<0.05);入院3 d、7 d后,死亡组患者的血清4-HNE分别为(23.89±6.12)mg/L、(26.01±8.27)mg/L,明显高于生存组的(19.03±4.11)mg/L、(17.25±3.56)mg/L,sCD163水平分别为(182.34±60.33)pg/mL、(219.46±70.41)pg/mL,明显高于生存组的(137.83±30.24)pg/mL、(120.74±25.17)pg/mL,APC水平分别为(23.04±4.89)pmol/L、(20.73±4.25)pmol/L,明显低于生存组的(27.42±4.09)pmol/L、(29.76±4.14)pmol/L,差异均具有统计学意义(P<0.05);Logistic回归分析结果显示,入院3 d、7 d后,血清4-HNE(>20.32 mg/L、>19.57 mg/L)、sCD163(>149.63 pg/mL、>146.90 pg/mL)是老年SP患者治疗28 d后死亡的危险因素,APC(>26.26 pmol/L、>27.37 pmol/L)是其保护因素(P<0.05);ROC分析结果显示,入院3 d后血清各指标水平联合预测死亡的曲线下面积(AUC)为0.910(95%CI:0.861~0.946),最佳预测敏感度、特异度分别为81.13%、86.39%,入院7 d后联合预测死亡的AUC为0.922(95%CI:0.876~0.955),最佳敏感度、特异度分别为90.57%、84.35%。结论血清4-HNE、APC、sCD163水平与老年SP发生、发展相关,各指标水平与CPIS评分均具有一定相关性,联合检测对老年SP患者预后情况具有一定预测价值,可作为临床评估肺部感染程度及预后的辅助指标。

Diabetes and high-glucose could upregulate the expression of receptor for activated C kinase 1 in retina

BACKGROUND Diabetic retinopathy(DR)is a major ocular complication of diabetes mellitus,leading to visual impairment.Retinal pigment epithelium(RPE)injury is a key component of the outer blood retinal barrier,and its damage is an important indicator of DR.Receptor for activated C kinase 1(RACK1)activates protein kinase C-ε(PKC-ε)to promote the generation of reactive oxygen species(ROS)in RPE cells,leading to apoptosis.Therefore,we hypothesize that the activation of RACK1 under hypoxic/high-glucose conditions may promote RPE cell apoptosis by modulating PKC-ε/ROS,thereby disrupting the barrier effect of the outer blood retinal barrier and contributing to the progression of DR.AIM To investigate the role and associated underlying mechanisms of RACK1 in the development of early DR.METHODS In this study,Sprague-Dawley rats and adult RPE cell line-19(ARPE-19)cells were used as in vivo and in vitro models,respectively,to explore the role of RACK1 in mediating PKC-εin early DR.Furthermore,the impact of RACK1 on apoptosis and barrier function of RPE cells was also investigated in the former model.RESULTS Streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats showed increased apoptosis and upregulated expression of RACK1 and PKC-εproteins in RPE cells following a prolonged modeling.Similarly,ARPE-19 cells exposed to high glucose and hypoxia displayed elevated mRNA and protein levels of RACK1 and PKC-ε,accompanied by an increases in ROS production,apoptosis rate,and monolayer permeability.However,silencing RACK1 significantly downregulated the expression of PKC-εand ROS,reduced cell apoptosis and permeability,and protected barrier function.CONCLUSION RACK1 plays a significant role in the development of early DR and might serve as a potential therapeutic target for DR by regulating RPE apoptosis and barrier function.

重症肺炎患者血清APC、IL-18的表达及其与临床预后的相关性

目的探讨血清活化蛋白C(APC)、白介素(IL)-18与重症肺炎患者临床预后的关系。方法选取武警北京总队医院2018年1月-2021年1月收治的80例重症肺炎患者为观察组,并同期选取医院收治的80例非重症肺炎患者为对照组。记录重症肺炎患者28d内生存情况。调查患者基线资料和检测血清APC、IL-18等实验室指标,分析血清APC、IL-18与患者临床预后的相关性。结果观察组血清APC水平低于对照组,IL-18水平高于对照组,差异有统计学意义(P<0.05);80例重症肺炎患者的病死率为31.25%;病死组的机械通气占比高于存活组,CPIS、IL-18、PCT水平均高于存活组,APC水平低于存活组,差异有统计学意义(P<0.05);经COX回归分析结果显示,机械通气、CPIS、血清IL-18、APC和PCT水平与重症肺炎患者临床预后有关(P<0.05);绘制受试者工作特征曲线(ROC)和限制性立方样条分析显示,血清IL-18、APC联合预测重症肺炎患者临床预后的价值最好,且二者与重症肺炎患者临床预后呈线性剂量反应关系(P<0.05)。结论重症肺炎患者血清APC、IL-18与临床预后存在相关性。

Thrombotic Occlusion of a Microvascular Anastomosis in a Resistance to Activated Protein C (APC) Patient with Incomplete Wound Healing after High Doses of Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C)

A 45-year-old woman underwent a delayed breast reconstruction with a free Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator Flap (DIEP flap) with total flap failure on the fourth postoperative day. Hematological investigation to exclude thrombofilia revealed a resistance to activated protein C (APC) with a factor V Leiden heterozygous mutation. The postoperative course was further complicated by delayed wound healing probably due to ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) related cytotoxic activity to fibroblasts. The surgeon must be aware of the use of preoperative nutritional supplement administration among patients. Future cost-effectiveness analyses should be made to warrant preoperative thrombophilia screening to prevent free flap failures.

克罗恩病患者血清CCL11及I-FABP的表达水平与疾病活动指数的相关性研究

目的探究克罗恩病(CD)患者血清嗜酸性粒细胞趋化因子(CCL11)及肠脂肪酸结合蛋白(I-FABP)水平表达与疾病活动指数的相关性。方法选取2021年2月至2023年2月于上海市杨浦区中心医院就诊的98例CD患者进行研究(CD组),根据疾病活动指数(CDAI)评分将患者分为缓解期21例、轻度活动期31例、中度活动期28例和重度活动期18例,另选取同期健康者100例作为对照组,采用酶联免疫吸附法检测血清CCL11、I-FABP水平,采用Spearman法分析血清CCL11、I-FABP水平与CDAI评分的相关性,采用受试者工作特征曲线(ROC)分析血清CCL11、I-FABP水平对CD患者疾病活动度的评估价值。结果CD组患者的血清CCL11、I-FABP水平分别为(51.33±7.14)pg/mL、(64.85±11.56)ng/mL,明显高于对照组的(28.56±6.61)pg/mL、(31.38±10.35)ng/mL,差异均有统计学意义(P<0.05);缓解期、轻度、中度、重度活动期CD患者血清CCL11水平分别为(31.47±7.02)pg/mL、(45.52±7.08)pg/mL、(57.83±7.12)pg/mL、(74.41±7.43)pg/mL,I-FABP水平分别为(48.13±10.79)ng/mL、(59.97±11.32)ng/mL、(70.76±11.75)ng/mL、(83.58±12.58)ng/mL,缓解期、轻度活动期、中度活动期、重度活动期CD患者血清CCL11、I-FABP水平依次升高,差异均有统计学意义(P<0.05)。Spearman相关性分析结果显示,血清CCL11、I-FABP水平均与CDAI评分呈正相关(r=0.834、0.620,P<0.01);ROC分析结果显示,血清CCL11、I-FABP水平评估CD患者疾病活动度的AUC分别为0.882、0.889,敏感性为81.82%、80.52%,特异性为85.71%、85.71%。两者联合评估疾病活动度的AUC为0.938,显著高于单项检测(P<0.05),联合检测的敏感性和特异性为93.51%、85.71%。结论CD患者血清CCL11、I-FABP水平升高,与疾病活动指数密切相关,且两者联合评估CD患者疾病活动度具有较高效能。

Protective Effects of Activated Protein C on Neurovascular Unit in a Rat Model of Intrauterine Infection-Induced Neonatal White Matter Injury

Summary： Activated protein C （APC）, a natural anticoagulant, has been reported to exert direct vascu- loprotective, neural protective, anti-inflammatory, and proneurogenic activities in the central nervous system. This study was aimed to explore the neuroprotective effects and potential mechanisms of APC on the neurovascular unit of neonatal rats with intrauterine infection-induced white matter injury. In- traperitoneal injection of 300 ~tg/kg lipopolysaccharide （LPS） was administered consecutively to preg- nant Sprague-Dawley rats at embryonic days 19 and 20 to establish the rat model of intrauterine infec- tion-induced white matter injury. Control rats were injected with an equivalent amount of sterile saline on the same time. APC at the dosage of 0.2 mg/kg was intraperitoneally injected to neonatal rats imme- diately after birth. Brain tissues were collected at postnatal day 7 and stained with hematoxylin and eo- sin （H＆E）. Immunohistochemistry was used to evaluate myelin basic protein （MBP） expression in the periventricular white matter region. Blood-brain barrier （BBB） permeability and brain water content ~were measured using Evens Blue dye and wet/dry weight method. Double immunofluorescence staining and real-time quantitative PCR were performed to detect microglial activation and the expression of protease activated receptor 1 （PAR1）. Typical pathological changes of white matter injury were ob- served in rat brains exposed to LPS, and MBP expression in the periventricular region was significantly decreased. BBB was disrupted and the brain water content was increased. Microglia were largely acti- vated and the mRNA and protein levels of PAR1 were elevated. APC administration ameliorated the pathological lesions of the white matter and increased MBP expression. BBB permeability and brain water content were reduced. Microglia activation was inhibited and the PAR1 mRNA and protein ex- pression levels were both down-regulated. Our results suggested that APC exerted neuroprotective ef- fects on multiple components of the neurovascular unit in neonatal rats with intrauterine infec- tion-induced white matter injury, and the underlying mechanisms might involve decreased expression of PAR1.

Liver myofibroblasts activate protein C and respond to activated protein C

AIM:To study the protein C activation system in human liver myofibroblasts,and the effects of activated protein C(APC)on these cells.METHODS:Human liver myofibroblasts were obtained by outgrowth.Expression of protease activated receptor 1(PAR-1),endothelial protein C receptor(EPCR) and thrombomodulin(TM)was analyzed by flow cytometry.Extracellular signal-regulated kinase(ERK)1/2 activation was assessed by Western blotting using anti-phospho-ERK antibodies.Collagen synthesis was studied with real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction(RT-PCR).Activation of protein C was studied by incubating liver myofibroblasts with zymogen protein C in the presence of thrombin and detecting the generation of APC with a colorimetric assay using a peptide substrate. RESULTS:Primary cultures of human liver myofibroblasts expressed EPCR on their surface,together with PAR-1 and TM.This receptor system was functional since exposure of myofibroblasts to APC inducedERK1/2 phosphorylation in a dose-and time-dependent manner.Furthermore,APC significantly upregulated the expression of collagen mRNA,as shown by real-time RT-PCR.Collagen upregulation was controlled through the ERK pathway as it was inhibited when using the mitogen-activated protein/extracellular signal-regulated kinase kinase inhibitor PD98059.Finally,using a cell-based colorimetric assay,we showed that intact myofibroblasts converted protein C into APC in the presence of thrombin.CONCLUSION:These data suggest that APC is a new modulator of liver myofibroblast activity and contributes to the pathophysiology of chronic liver diseases.

Activated protein C: A regulator of human skin epidermal keratinocyte function

Activated protein C(APC) is a physiological anticoagulant, derived from its precursor protein C(PC). Independent of its anticoagulation, APC possesses strong anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic and barrier protective properties which appear to be protective in a number of disorders including chronic wound healing. The epidermis is the outermost skin layer and provides the first line of defence against the external environment. Keratinocytes are the most predominant cells in the epidermis and play a critical role in maintaining epidermal barrier function. PC/APC and its receptor, endothelial protein C receptor(EPCR), once thought to be restricted to the endothelium, are abundantly expressed by skin epidermal keratinocytes. These cells respond to APC by upregulating proliferation, migration and matrix metalloproteinase-2 activity and inhibiting apoptosis/inflammation leading to a wound healing phenotype. APC also increases barrier function of keratinocyte monolayers by promoting the expression of tight junction proteins and re-distributing them to cell-cell contacts. These cytoprotective properties of APC are mediated through EPCR, protease-activated receptors, epidermal growth factor receptor or Tie2. Future preventive and therapeutic uses of APC in skin disorders associated with disruption of barrier function and inflammation look promising. This review will focus on APC's function in skin epidermis/keratinocytes and its therapeutical potential in skin inflammatory conditions.

Expressions of beta-catenin, APC Protein, C-myc and Cyclin D1 in Ovarian Epithelial Tumor and Their Implication

Objective： To investigate the expressions of beta-catenin, protein APC （adenomatous polyposis coil protein）, c-myc and cyclin D1 and their implication in ovarian epithelial tumor. Methods： Immunohistochemical staining with SP method was conducted to identify the expressions of beta-catenin, APC protein, c-myc and cyclin D1 in ovarian epithelial tumor in 48 cases. Results： The abnormal expression rate of beta-catenin in malignant and borderline ovarian epithelial tumors was higher than that in benign epithelial tumors （P〈0.01）. The expression rates of c-myc and cyclin-D1 in ovarian malignant and borderline epithelial tumors were higher than those in benign epithelial tumors too（P〈0.05）. The prevalence of APC protein positive expression in benign epithelial tumors were significantly greater than that in malignant epithelial tumors （P〈0.05）. A significant negative correlation was found between beta-catenin and APC protein in ovarian epithelial tumors; while a significant positive correlation was found between beta-catenin, c-myc and cyclin-D1 in ovarian epithelial tumor （P〈0.05）. Conclusion： The abnormal expressions of Beta-catenin, APC protein, c-myc and cyclin-D1 might be used to indicate the malignance transform of ovarian epithelial tumors.

Recurrent thrombotic occlusion of a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic stent-shunt due to activated protein C resistance

The transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic stent-shunt (TIPS) has successfully been used in the management of refractory variceal bleeding and ascites in patients with portal hypertension. Major drawbacks are the induction of hepatic encephalopathy and shunt dysfunction. We present a 59-year-old woman with alcoholic liver cirrhosis who received a TIPS because of recurrent bleeding from esophageal varices. Stent occlusion occurred 4 mo after placement of the TIPS. Laboratory testing revealed resistance to activated protein C (APC). Combination therapy with low-dose enoxaparin and clopidogrel could not prevent her recurrent stent occlusion. Finally, therapy with high-dose enoxaparin was sufficient to prevent further shunt complications up to now (follow-up period of 1 year). In conclusion, early occlusion of a TIPS warrants testing for thrombophilia. If risk factors are confirmed,anticoagulation should be intensified. There are currently no evidence-based recommendations regarding the best available anticoagulant therapy and surveillance protocol for patients with TIPS.

Up-regulation interleukin-6 and interleukin-8 by activated protein C in lipopolysaccharide-treated human umbilical vein endothelial cells

Objective: To investigate the effect of activated protein C (APC) on inflammatory responses in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Methods: The second passage of collagenase digested HUVEC was divided into the following groups: serum free medium control group (SFM control), phosphate buffer solution control group (PBS control), LPS group with final concentration of 1 μg/ml (LPS group), APC group with final concentration of 7 μg/ml, Pre-APC group (APC pretreatment for 30 min prior to LPS challenge), and Post-APC group (APC administration 30 min after LPS challenge). Supernatant was harvested at 0, 4, 8, 12 and 24 h after LPS challenge. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and Interleukin-8 (IL-8) levels were analyzed with ELISA. Cells were harvested at 24 h after LPS challenge, and total RNA was extracted. Mes-senger RNA levels for IL-6 and IL-8 were semi-quantitatively determined by RT-PCR. Results: Compared with control group, IL-6 and IL-8 levels steadily increased 4 to 24 h after LPS stimulation. APC treatment could increase LPS-induced IL-6 and IL-8 production. The mRNA levels of IL-6 and IL-8 exhibited a similar change. Conclusion: APC can further increase the level of IL-6 and IL-8 induced by LPS. The effect of these elevated cytokines is still under investigation.

C-反应蛋白/白蛋白比值与活动性肺结核患者病情、疾病转归的关系

目的探讨C-反应蛋白/白蛋白比值(C-reactive protein/albumin ratio,CAR)与活动性肺结核患者病情、疾病转归的关系。方法对作者医院2023-01~06月收治的143例活动性肺结核患者的临床资料进行回顾性分析,根据病情程度分为轻度组(n=51)、中度组(n=65)、重度组(n=27)。治疗前采用全自动血细胞分析仪及全自动生化分析仪分别检测外周血C-反应蛋白、白蛋白水平,并计算二者比值CAR。根据标准治疗6个月的转归情况将患者分为预后良好组(n=104)和预后不良组(n=39)。采用受试者工作特征(receiver operating characteristic,ROC)曲线评估C-反应蛋白、白蛋白、CAR对活动性肺结核患者疾病转归的预测价值,采用多因素Logistic逐步回归分析探讨活动性肺结核患者疾病转归的相关因素。结果轻、中、重度组活动性肺结核患者,外周血C-反应蛋白水平及CAR逐渐升高,白蛋白水平逐渐降低,且差异具有统计学意义(P均<0.05)。预后不良组活动性肺结核患者外周血C-反应蛋白水平及CAR高于预后良好组,白蛋白水平低于预后良好组,且差异具有统计学意义(P均<0.05)。C-反应蛋白、白蛋白、CAR预测活动性肺结核患者预后的ROC曲线的曲线下面积(area under the curve,AUC)及95%置信区间(confidence interval,CI)分别为0.858(95%CI:0.807~0.909)、0.761(95%CI:0.750~0.812)、0.903(95%CI:0.852~0.954),CAR预测的效能最高。单因素分析显示,预后不良组活动性肺结核患者年龄≥60岁占比、糖尿病史占比、合并肺部感染占比、白细胞计数(white blood cell count,WBC)、血小板计数(platelet count,PLT)、红细胞沉降率(erythrocyte sedimentation rate,ESR)、降钙素原(procalcitonin,PCT)高于预后良好组,且差异具有统计学意义(P均<0.05)。多因素Logistic回归分析显示,合并肺部感染(OR=2.052,95%CI:1.425~2.955)、ESR水平高(OR=2.344,95%CI:1.581~3.476)、CAR≥2.47(OR=2.782,95%CI:1.790~4.323)是活动性肺结核患者预后不良的独立危险因素。结论CAR升高与活动性肺结核患者病情加重和不良预后有关,有望作为预测活动性肺结核患者预后的生物标记物,具有一定临床应用价值。

血浆纤溶酶原激活剂抑制物-1联合C反应蛋白与白蛋白比值对老年脓毒症患者28天预后的评估价值

目的 探讨纤溶酶原激活剂抑制物-1(PAI-1)联合C反应蛋白与白蛋白比值(CAR)对老年脓毒症患者28 d预后的预测价值。方法 90例老年脓毒症患者作为研究组,30名同期老年体检健康者作为对照组;比较研究组入院次日、对照组体检当日的血浆PAI-1水平和CAR,记录研究组的白细胞计数、血小板计数及淋巴细胞计数,计算序贯器官衰竭评分(SOFA)和急性生理学与慢性健康状况评分Ⅱ(APACHEⅡ);分析老年脓毒症患者血浆PAI-1水平和CAR与病情严重程度的相关性,不同预后(根据患者28 d的生存结局分为生存组和死亡组)老年脓毒症患者一般资料、实验室指标及血浆PAI-1水平和CAR,采用多因素logistic回归分析影响老年脓毒症患者28 d预后的独立危险因素,采用受试者工作特征(ROC)曲线下面积(AUC)评价血浆PAI-1、CAR对老年脓毒症患者入院28 d预后的预测价值。结果 研究组血浆PAI-1水平和CAR均高于对照组,差异有统计学意义(P<0.05);老年脓毒症患者血浆PAI-1、CAR与SOFA评分、APACHEⅡ评分分别呈正相关关系(P<0.05);28天内,老年脓毒症患者死亡31例(34.44%)、存活59例(65.56%),生存组的淋巴细胞计数高于死亡组,SOFA评分、血浆PAI-1水平及CAR低于死亡组(P<0.05);多因素logistic回归分析结果表明血浆PAI-1水平和CAR是影响老年脓毒症患者28 d预后的独立危险因素(P<0.05),ROC曲线分析结果显示,血浆PAI-1、CAR及两者联合预测老年脓毒症患者28 d内死亡的AUC分别为0.752(95%CI为0.642~0.862,P<0.001),0.842(95%CI为0.745~0.939,P<0.001)及0.887(95%CI为0.796~0.977,P<0.001)。结论 老年脓毒症患者的血浆PAI-1水平和CAR升高,两者联合对患者28 d预后具有较好的预测价值。

Bioactive chemical constituents from the marine-derived fungus Cladosporium sp.DLT-5

A new isochromanone,cladosporinisochromanone(1),accompanied by 15 known compounds(2–16)were obtained from secondary metabolites produced by marine-derived fungus Cladosporium sp.DLT-5.NMR and HRESIMS spectra elucidation determined the planar structure of 1.Subsequent electronic circular dichroism(ECD)experiment assigned the absolute configuration of 1.Compounds 1,2,4–6,and 10 displayed different degrees of neuroprotective activities on human neuroblastoma cells SH-SY5Y.Five compounds(1,3–5,and 13)emerged resistance to protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B(PTP1B),further kinetic analysis and molecular docking study indicated that the most potent compound 13(IC50value of 10.74±0.61μmol/L)was found as a noncompetitive inhibitor for PTP1B.Surface plasmon resonance(SPR)and molecular docking studies also demonstrated the interaction between compound 12 and Niemann-Pick C1 Like 1(NPC1L1),which has been identified as significant therapeutic target for hypercholesteremia.In addition,compounds 3,6,and 14 showed attractive inhibitory activity against the phytopathogenic fungi:Colletotrichum capsici.Therefore,library of Cladosporium metabolites is enriched and new active uses of known compounds are explored.

Mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphatase 1 protects PC12 cells from amyloid beta-induced neurotoxicity

The mitogen-activated protein kinase（MAPK） signaling pathway plays an important role in the regulation of cell growth, proliferation, differentiation, transformation and death. Mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphatase 1（MKP1） has an inhibitory effect on the p38 MAPK and JNK pathways, but it is unknown whether it plays a role in Aβ-induced oxidative stress and neuronal inflammation. In this study, PC12 cells were infected with MKP1 sh RNA, MKP1 lentivirus or control lentivirus for 12 hours, and then treated with 0.1, 1, 10 or 100 μM amyloid beta 42（Aβ42）. The cell survival rate was measured using the cell counting kit-8 assay. MKP1, tumor necrosis factor-alpha（TNF-α） and interleukin-1β（IL-1β） m RNA expression levels were analyzed using quantitative real time-polymerase chain reaction. MKP1 and phospho-c-Jun N-terminal kinase（JNK） expression levels were assessed using western blot assay. Reactive oxygen species（ROS） levels were detected using 2′,7′-dichlorofluorescein diacetate. Mitochondrial membrane potential was measured using flow cytometry. Superoxide dismutase activity and malondialdehyde levels were evaluated using the colorimetric method. Lactate dehydrogenase activity was measured using a microplate reader. Caspase-3 expression levels were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Apoptosis was evaluated using the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase d UTP nick end labeling method. MKP1 overexpression inhibited Aβ-induced JNK phosphorylation and the increase in ROS levels. It also suppressed the Aβ-induced increase in TNF-α and IL-1β levels as well as apoptosis in PC12 cells. In contrast, MKP1 knockdown by RNA interference aggravated Aβ-induced oxidative stress, inflammation and cell damage in PC12 cells. Furthermore, the JNK-specific inhibitor SP600125 abolished this effect of MKP1 knockdown on Aβ-induced neurotoxicity. Collectively, these results show that MKP1 mitigates Aβ-induced apoptosis, oxidative stress and neuroinflammation by inhibiting the JNK signaling pathway, thereby playing a neuroprotective role.

Electroacupuncture preconditioning attenuates ischemic brain injury by activation of the adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase signaling pathway

Electroacupuncture has therapeutic effects on ischemic brain injury, but its mechanism is still poorly understood. In this study, mice were stimulated by electroacupuncture at the Baihui（GV20） acupoint for 30 minutes at 1 m A and 2/15 Hz for 5 consecutive days. A cerebral ischemia model was established by ligating the bilateral common carotid artery for 15 minutes. At 72 hours after injury, neuronal injury in the mouse hippocampus had lessened, and the number of terminal deoxynucleotide transferase-mediated d UTP nick-end labeling-positive cells reduced after electroacupuncture treatment. Moreover, expression of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase α（AMPKα） and phosphorylated AMPKα was up-regulated. Intraperitoneal injection of the AMPK antagonist, compound C, suppressed this phenomenon. Our findings suggest that electroacupuncture preconditioning alleviates ischemic brain injury via AMPK activation.

Markers for neural degeneration and regeneration:novel highly sensitive methods for the measurement of thrombin and activated protein C in human cerebrospinal fluid

Inflammation and coagulation are tightly interconnected in the pathophysiology of neuronal diseases.Thrombin,a pro-coagulant serine protease is associated with neurodegeneration and its indirect inhibitor,activated protein C(aPC),is considered neuroprotective.While levels of thrombin and aPC activity are readily measured in the blood,similar assays in the cerebrospinal fluid(CSF)have not been described.The aim of this study was to establish a specific and sensitive enzymatic assay to measure both thrombin and aPC activity in the CSF.CSF was collected from 14 patients with suspected normal pressure hydrocephalus served as a control group,while seven patients with central nervous system infections served as an acute neuro-inflammatory study group and one sample of CSF following traumatic lumbar puncture served as a positive control.Thrombin and aPC activities were measured by fluorescence released by specific proteolytic cleavage in the presence of endopeptidase and amino-peptidase inhibitors to ensure specificity.Specificity of the method was verified by thrombin and serine-protease inhibitors N-alpha-((2-naphthylsulfinyl)glycyl)-DL-p-amidinophenylalanylpiperidine and phenylmethanesulfonyl fluoride.Inhibition of thrombin activity by CSF samples and levels of specific thrombin inhibitors were also assessed.Thrombin and aPC activities were reliably measured and were significantly higher in the CSF of patients with central nervous system infections compared to normal pressure hydrocephalus controls,suggesting the involvement of these factors in neuro-inflammation.CSF thrombin activity levels in the presence of known thrombin concentration were high in patients with central nervous system infections,and low in normal pressure hydrocephalus patients.Quantification of endogenous thrombin inhibitors protease nexin 1,amyloid precursor protein and anti-thrombin III in CSF by western blot indicated a significant elevation of amyloid precursor protein in infectious CSF.In conclusion,this study describes a novel and sensitive assay aimed at the detection of thrombin and aPC activity in CSF.This method may be useful for measuring these factors that reflect degenerative and protective influences of coagulation on neurological disorders.The study procedure was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Chaim Sheba Medical Center(approval No.4245-17-SMC)on October 18,2018.

血浆AT-Ⅲ、蛋白C、蛋白S活性对不明原因复发性流产患者妊娠结局的预测价值

目的:探讨血浆抗凝血酶Ⅲ(antithrombinⅢ,AT-Ⅲ)、蛋白C(protein C,PC)、蛋白S(protein S,PS)活性对不明原因复发性流产(unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion,URSA)患者妊娠结局的预测价值。方法:选择2019年8月—2023年8月于赣州市妇幼保健院就诊的80例URSA患者作为研究对象,随访调查80例患者的妊娠结局,将成功分娩患者纳入妊娠结局良好组(n=26),剩余患者纳入妊娠结局不良组(n=54),对比两组血浆AT-Ⅲ、PC、PS活性水平,并采用受试者操作特征(receiver operating characteristic curve,ROC)曲线分析血浆AT-Ⅲ、PC、PS预测URSA患者妊娠结局的价值。结果:妊娠结局不良组血浆AT-Ⅲ、PC、PS水平显著低于妊娠结局良好组,差异均有统计学意义(P<0.05);血浆AT-Ⅲ预测URSA患者不良妊娠结局的AUC为0.820,敏感度为78.75%、特异度为75.71%;PC预测URSA患者不良妊娠结局的AUC为0.892,敏感度为88.75%、特异度为77.14%;PS预测URSA患者不良妊娠结局的AUC为0.838,敏感度为77.50%、特异度为78.57%。结论:URSA后不良妊娠结局患者的血浆AT-Ⅲ、PC、PS活性水平较低,表明机体存在血液高凝状态,可通过早期检测上述指标活性水平,及时进行干预,以改善妊娠结局。

炎症性肠病患者血清FCP、CRP、ESR水平及其与疾病活动度的关系研究

目的探究炎症性肠病患者粪便钙卫蛋白(FCP)、C-反应蛋白(CRP)、红细胞沉降率(ESR)水平及其与疾病活动度的关系。方法选取2020年1月—2022年12月于永州市第三人民医院就诊的104例炎症性肠病患者作为研究对象,其中43例克罗恩病(CD)患者纳入CD组,61例溃疡性结肠炎(UC)患者纳入UC组,另选取同期健康体检者50名纳入健康组。采集所有受试者粪便及外周血样本,比较3组受试者FCP、CRP、ESR水平。根据克罗恩病活动指数(CDAI)、改良Mayo内镜评分(IMES)分别将CD组和UC组分为轻度、中度和重度活动期,比较不同活动度患者FCP、CRP、ESR水平,采用Spearman相关系数法分析FCP、CRP、ESR与疾病活动度的相关性。随访1年,采用受试者工作特征(ROC)曲线分析FCP、CRP、ESR对炎症性肠病复发的预测价值。结果CD组和UC组FCP、CRP、ESR水平均高于健康组(P均<0.05);轻度、中度、重度活动期炎症性肠病患者FCP、CRP、ESR水平依次升高(P均<0.05);Spearman分析显示,炎症性肠病患者FCP、CRP、ESR水平均与疾病活动度呈正相关(P均<0.05);ROC曲线显示,FCP、CRP、ESR预测炎症性肠病复发的曲线下面积(AUC)分别为0.809、0.756、0.769(P均<0.05)。结论FCP、CRP、ESR在炎症性肠病中高表达,其水平均与炎症性肠病活动度成正比,且对疾病复发具有较高的诊断价值。