Apigenin ameliorates imiquimod-induced psoriasis in C57BL/6J mice by inactivating STAT3 and NF-κB

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease featured by patches on the skin.It is caused by malfunction of immune cells and keratinocytes with inflammation as one of its key features.Apigenin(API)is a natural flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory properties.Therefore,we speculated that API can ameliorate psoriasis,and determined its effect on the development of psoriasis by using imiquimod(IMQ)-induced psoriasis mouse model.Our results showed that API attenuated IMQ-induced phenotypic changes,such as erythema,scaling and epidermal thickening,and improved splenic hyperplasia.Abnormal differentiation of immune cells was restored in API-treated mice.Mechanistically,we revealed that API is a key regulator of signal transducer activator of transcription 3(STAT3).API regulated immune responses by reducing interleukin-23(IL-23)/STAT3/IL-17A axis.Moreover,it suppressed IMQ-caused cell hyperproliferation by inactivating STAT3 through regulation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 and nuclear factor-κB(NF-κB)pathway.Furthermore,API reduced expression of inflammatory cytokines through inactivation of NF-κB.Taken together,our study demonstrates that API can ameliorate psoriasis and may be considered as a strategy for psoriasis treatment.

HSP110 aggravates ischemia-reperfusion injury after liver transplantation by promoting NF-κB pathway

Background:Ischemia-reperfusion injury(IRI)poses a significant challenge to liver transplantation(LT).The underlying mechanism primarily involves overactivation of the immune system.Heat shock protein 110(HSP110)functions as a molecular chaperone that helps stabilize protein structures.Methods:An IRI model was established by performing LT on Sprague-Dawley rats,and HSP110 was silenced using siRNA.Hematoxylin-eosin staining,TUNEL,immunohistochemistry,ELISA and liver enzyme analysis were performed to assess IRI following LT.Western blotting and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction were conducted to investigate the pertinent molecular changes.Results:Our findings revealed a significant increase in the expression of HSP110 at both the mRNA and protein levels in the rat liver following LT(P<0.05).However,when rats were injected with siRNAHSP110,IRI subsequent to LT was notably reduced(P<0.05).Additionally,the levels of liver enzymes and inflammatory chemokines in rat serum were significantly reduced(P<0.05).Silencing HSP110 with siRNA resulted in a marked decrease in M1-type polarization of Kupffer cells in the liver and downregulated the NF-κB pathway in the liver(P<0.05).Conclusions:HSP110 in the liver promotes IRI after LT in rats by activating the NF-κB pathway and inducing M1-type polarization of Kupffer cells.Targeting HSP110 to prevent IRI after LT may represent a promising new approach for the treatment of LT-associated IRI.

Mandarin fish von Hippel-Lindau protein regulates the NF-κB signaling pathway via interaction with IκB to promote fish ranavirus replication

The von Hippel-Lindau tumor suppressor protein(VHL),an E3 ubiquitin ligase,functions as a critical regulator of the oxygen-sensing pathway for targeting hypoxia-inducible factors.Recent evidence suggests that mammalian VHL may also be critical to the NF-κB signaling pathway,although the specific molecular mechanisms remain unclear.Herein,the roles of mandarin fish(Siniperca chuatsi)VHL(scVHL)in the NF-κB signaling pathway and mandarin fish ranavirus(MRV)replication were explored.The transcription of scVHL was induced by immune stimulation and MRV infection,indicating a potential role in innate immunity.Dual-luciferase reporter gene assays and reverse transcription quantitative PCR(RT-qPCR)results demonstrated that scVHL evoked and positively regulated the NF-κB signaling pathway.Treatment with NF-κB signaling pathway inhibitors indicated that the role of scVHL may be mediated through scIKKα,scIKKβ,scIκBα,or scp65.Co-immunoprecipitation(Co-IP)analysis identified scIκBαas a novel target protein of scVHL.Moreover,scVHL targeted scIκBαto catalyze the formation of K63-linked polyubiquitin chains to activate the NF-κB signaling pathway.Following MRV infection,NF-κB signaling remained activated,which,in turn,promoted MRV replication.These findings suggest that scVHL not only positively regulates NF-κB but also significantly enhances MRV replication.This study reveals a novel function of scVHL in NF-κB signaling and viral infection in fish.

RPRD1B/CREPT facilitates the progression of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma by inhibiting apoptosis through the NF-κB signaling pathway

Objective:To investigate the role of RPRD1B in the progression of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma(DLBCL)and its potential as a therapeutic target.Methods:This study analyzed RPRD1B expression in DLBCL and normal tissues using public databases and assessed its prognostic impact through survival analysis.In vitro and in vivo experiments were conducted to explore the mechanisms by which RPRD1B influences tumor growth and apoptosis.Results:RPRD1B expression was significantly elevated in DLBCL compared to normal tissues and was associated with poor prognosis.In vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that RPRD1B promoted lymphoma cell proliferation and inhibited apoptosis through the NF-κB signaling pathway.Conclusions:RPRD1B plays a critical role in the progression of DLBCL by modulating apoptosis and cellular proliferation.Targeting RPRD1B may offer a novel therapeutic strategy for DLBCL,suggesting its potential as a prognostic marker and therapeutic target in hematological malignancies.

Betulin protects against isoproterenol-induced myocardial injury by inhibiting NF-κB signaling and attenuating cardiac inflammation and oxidative stress in rats

Objective:To investigate the cardioprotective potential of betulin in isoproterenol(ISO)-induced myocardial injury in rats.Methods:Wistar rats were divided into five groups(n=10):normal,ISO,nebivolol 5 mg/kg,and betulin(20&40 mg/kg).Nebivolol and betulin were administered orally for 29 days.ISO(85 mg/kg)was administered subcutaneously on day 27 and day 28 to induce myocardial injury.On day 29,blood was collected for determination of cardiac markers,and hemodynamic parameters were investigated.The levels of oxidative stress markers and the gene expressions of apoptotic markers and inflammatory mediators were evaluated.Moreover,2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining and histopathological analysis were also performed.Results:Betulin reduced the size of myocardial infarction,decreased elevated levels of cardiac enzymes,and maintained hemodynamic functions.It also inhibited ISO-induced upregulation of Bax,caspase-3,NF-κB,and IL-6,enhanced endogenous antioxidant enzymes,and reduced lipid peroxidation.Additionally,pretreatment with betulin alleviated myocardial ischemic damage,as reflected by reduced myonecrosis,edema,and inflammatory changes.Conclusions:Betulin exhibits strong cardioprotective activity against ISO-induced myocardial injury by anti-inflammatory,anti-apoptotic,and antioxidant activities.

Downregulation of MUC1 Inhibits Proliferation and Promotes Apoptosis by Inactivating NF-κB Signaling Pathway in Human Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma

Objective To investigate the effect of mucin 1(MUC1)on the proliferation and apoptosis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma(NPC)and its regulatory mechanism.Methods The 60 NPC and paired para-cancer normal tissues were collected from October 2020 to July 2021 in Quanzhou First Hospital.The expression of MUC1 was measured by real-time quantitative PCR(qPCR)in the patients with PNC.The 5-8F and HNE1 cells were transfected with siRNA control(si-control)or siRNA targeting MUC1(si-MUC1).Cell proliferation was analyzed by cell counting kit-8 and colony formation assay,and apoptosis was analyzed by flow cytometry analysis in the 5-8F and HNE1 cells.The qPCR and ELISA were executed to analyze the levels of TNF-αand IL-6.Western blot was performed to measure the expression of MUC1,NFкB and apoptosis-related proteins(Bax and Bcl-2).Results The expression of MUC1 was up-regulated in the NPC tissues,and NPC patients with the high MUC1 expression were inclined to EBV infection,growth and metastasis of NPC.Loss of MUC1 restrained malignant features,including the proliferation and apoptosis,downregulated the expression of p-IкB、p-P65 and Bcl-2 and upregulated the expression of Bax in the NPC cells.Conclusion Downregulation of MUC1 restrained biological characteristics of malignancy,including cell proliferation and apoptosis,by inactivating NF-κB signaling pathway in NPC.

Pectolinarin inhibited LPS-stimulated inflammation in microglial BV_(2) cells via NF-κB signaling pathway

Background:Neuro-inflammation is regarded as one of the critical pathogenesis in neurodegenerative diseases,which is characterized by the activated microglial cells.Pectolinarin(Pec),a natural flavonoid that exists in many Chinese herbal medicines,has been reported to have various biological activities.However,the effects and mechanisms on neuro-inflammation are not clear.Methods:In this study,the inhibitory effects and mechanisms of Pec on neuro-inflammation were investigated in the LPS-stimulated microglial BV_(2) cells.BV_(2) microglial cells were treated with Pec or vehicle,followed by LPS.Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay,real-time quantitative PCR,nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species assay,and western blot were performed to examine the effects of Pec on neuro-inflammatory responses.Results:We showed that Pec significantly inhibited the expression of tumor necrosis factorαand interleukin 6 in mRNA and protein levels induced by LPS.Moreover,the production of nitric oxide,iNOS,reactive oxygen species,and COX-2 were suppressed by Pec in LPS-stimulated microglial BV_(2) cells.In addition,Pec inhibited LPS-induced inflammation via nuclear factor kappa B signaling pathway,as evidenced by the reduction of the phosphorylation of inhibitor of nuclear factor kappa-B kinase,the degradation of IκBα,and the nuclear translocation of p65.Conclusion:Taken together,Pec exhibited anti-inflammatory effects in LPS-stimulated microglial BV_(2) cells via nuclear factor kappa B signaling pathway,which might provide therapeutic potential for neuro-inflammation and neurodegenerative diseases.

Apatinib reduces liver cancer cell multidrug resistance by modulating NF-κB signaling pathway

Objectives:This investigation aimed to elucidate the inhibitory impact of apatinib on the multidrug resistance of liver cancer both in vivo and in vitro.Methods:To establish a Hep3B/5-Fu resistant cell line,5-Fu concentrations were gradually increased in the culture media.Hep3B/5-Fu cells drug resistance and its alleviation by apatinib were confirmed via flow cytometry and Cell Counting Kit 8(CCK8)test.Further,Nuclear factor kappa B(NF-κB)siRNA was transfected into Hep3B/5-Fu cells to assess alterations in the expression of multidrug resistance(MDR)-related genes and proteins.Nude mice were injected with Hep3B/5-Fu cells to establish subcutaneous xenograft tumors and then categorized into 8 treatment groups.The treatments included oxaliplatin,5-Fu,and apatinib.In the tumor tissues,the expression of MDRrelated genes was elucidated via qRT-PCR,immunohistochemistry,and Western blot analyses.Results:The apatinibtreated mice indicated slower tumor growth with smaller size compared to the control group.Both the in vivo and in vitro investigations revealed that the apatinib-treated groups had reduced expression of MDR genes GST-pi,LRP,MDR1,and p-p65.Conclusions:Apatinib effectively suppresses MDR in human hepatic cancer cells by modulating the expression of genes related to MDR,potentially by suppressing the NF-κB signaling pathway.

Porphyromonas gingivalis Induces Chronic Kidney Disease through Crosstalk between the NF-κB/NLRP3 Pathway and Ferroptosis in GMCs

Objective Porphyromonas gingivalis(P.gingivalis)is a gram-negative bacterium found in the human oral cavity and is a recognized pathogenic bacterium associated with chronic periodontitis and systemic diseases,including chronic kidney disease(CKD),but the roles and molecular mechanism of P.gingivalis in CKD pathogenesis are unclear.Methods In this study,an animal model of oral P.gingivalis administration and glomerular mesangial cells(GMCs)cocultured with M1-polarized macrophages and P.gingivalis supernatant were constructed.After seven weeks of P.gingivalis gavaged,peripheral blood was collected to detect the changes in renal function.By collecting the teeth and kidneys of mice,H&E staining and IHC were used to analyze the expression of periodontal inflammatory factors in mice,PAS staining was used to analyze glomerular lesions.The supernatant of macrophages was treated with 5%P.gingivalis supernatant.H&E staining,IHC,Western blot and RT-PCR were applied to analyze renal inflammatory factors,macrophage M1 polarization,NF-κB,NLRP3 and ferroptosis changes in vitro.Results We found that oral P.gingivalis administration induced CKD in mice.P.gingivalis supernatant induced macrophage polarization and inflammatory factor upregulation,which triggered the activation of the NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway and ferroptosis in GMCs.By inhibiting the NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway and ferroptosis in GMCs,cell viability and the inflammatory response were partially alleviated in vitro.Conclusion We demonstrated that P.gingivalis induced CKD in mice by triggering crosstalk between the NFκB/NLRP3 pathway and ferroptosis in GMCs.Overall,our study suggested that periodontitis can promote the pathogenesis of CKD in mice,which provides evidence of the importance of periodontitis therapy in the prevention and treatment of CKD.

Effects of Yigan Capsule on the expression of HMGB1,RAGE and NF-κB protein in rats with drug-induced liver injury

Objective:To study the effect of Yigan capsule on the expression of high mobility group protein B1(HMGB1),nuclear factor-B(NF-κB)and receptor for advanced glycation end products(RAGE)in anti-tuberculosis drug-induced liver injury(ATB-DILI),and to explore its protective effect and mechanism on ATB-DILI,so as to provide experimental basis for the clinical application of Yigan capsule.Methods:Twenty-four rats were divided into two groups.Except for the blank group(n=6),the other 18 rats were given isoniazid(INH)+rifampicin(RFP)(50 mg/kg.d)for 4 weeks.Then 18 rats were randomly divided into three groups(model group,low dose group of Yigan capsule and high dose group of Yigan capsule)according to 6 rats in each group.The blank group and the model group were given 0.9%sodium chloride solution by intragastric administration.The low dose group of Yigan capsule was 0.468 g/kg,and the high dose group of Yigan capsule was 1.872 g/kg[1].After 4 weeks,the pathological changes of liver were observed by HE staining.The contents of ALT,AST,ALP,γ-GT and TBIL were detected.The expression of HMGB1,NF-κBp65 and RAGE protein was detected by IHC.The expression levels of HMGB1,NF-κBp65,RAGE,TNF-αand IL-1βwere detected by WB.Result:HE staining showed that the structure of the liver in the model group was disordered,the liver cells showed swelling and fusion,the number of inflammatory cells increased and accompanied by punctate necrosis,while the above pathological changes in each treatment group of Yigan capsule were significantly improved.The contents of ALT,AST,ALP,γ-GT and TBIL in the model group were higher than those in the blank group(P<0.05).The contents of ALT,AST,ALP,γ-GT and TBIL in each treatment group were significantly lower than those in the model group(P<0.05).Compared with the blank group,the expression levels of TNF-αand IL-1βin the model group were increased(P<0.05),and the expression levels of HMGB1,NF-κBp65 and RAGE were increased(P<0.05).Compared with the model group,the expression levels of TNF-αand IL-1βin each treatment group of Yigan capsule decreased(P<0.05),and the expression of HMGB1,NF-κBp65 and RAGE decreased(P<0.05).Conclusion:Yigan capsule may inhibit the secretion of inflammatory factors through HMGB1/RAGE/NF-κBp65 signaling pathway,thus protecting ATB-DILI.

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

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

Mechanisms and Research Progress of Traditional Chinese Medicine Regulating NF-κB in the Treatment of Acute Lung Injury/Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome

Acute lung injury(ALI)has multiple causes and can easily progress to acute respiratory distress syndrome(ARDS)if not properly treated.Nuclear factorκB(NF-κB)is a key pathway in the treatment of ALI/ARDS.By exploring the relevance of NF-κB and the pathogenesis of this disease,it was found that this disease was mainly associated with inflammation,dysfunction of the endothelial barrier,oxidative stress,impaired clearance of alveolar fluid,and coagulation disorders.Traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)has the characteristics of multitargeting,multipathway effects,and high safety,which can directly or indirectly affect the treatment of ALI/ARDS.This article summarizes the mechanism and treatment strategies of TCM in recent years through intervention in the NF-κB-related signaling pathways for treating ALI/ARDS.It provides an overview from the perspectives of Chinese herbal monomers,TCM couplet medicines,TCM injections,Chinese herbal compounds,and Chinese herbal preparations,offering insights into the prevention and treatment of ALI/ARDS with TCM.

活血明目方对体外加压培养大鼠RGCs NF-κB信号通路凋亡相关因子Bax及Bcl-2的影响

目的观察活血明目方对体外加压大鼠视网膜神经节细胞(retinal ganglion cells,RGCs)中凋亡相关因子Bax和Bcl-2表达的干预作用。方法将SD大鼠随机分为4组,每组3只大鼠,采取体外加压培养SD大鼠凋亡模型,制备活血明目方含药肠吸收液,观察活血明目方对体外加压RGCs在NF-κB信号通路作用下对Bax、Bcl-2表达的影响。结果Q-PCR和Western blot检测发现,与模型组相比,含药肠吸收液组中Bax相对表达量显著下降(P<0.05),而Bcl-2相对表达量则显著上升(P<0.01)。结论活血明目方含药肠吸收液对RGCs凋亡具有一定的抑制作用。

High levels of homocysteine downregulate apolipoprotein E expression via nuclear factor kappa B

AIM: To investigate the effect of high homocysteine(Hcy) levels on apolipoprotein E(apoE) expression and the signaling pathways involved in this gene regulation.METHODS: Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction(RT-PCR) and Western blot were used to assess apo E expression in cells treated with various concentrations(50-500 μmol/L) of Hcy. Calcium phosphatetransient transfections were performed in HEK-293 and RAW 264.7 cells to evaluate the effect of Hcy on apoE regulatory elements [promoter and distal multienhancer 2(ME2)]. To this aim, plasmids containing the proximal apoE promoter [(-500/+73)apoE construct] alone or in the presence of ME2 [ME2/(-500/+73)apoE construct] to drive the expression of the reporter luciferase gene were used. Co-transfection experiments were carried out to investigate the downstream effectors of Hcymediated regulation of apoE promoter by using specific inhibitors or a dominant negative form of IKβ. In other co-transfections, the luciferase reporter was under the control of synthetic promoters containing multiple specific binding sites for nuclear factor kappa B(NF-κB), activator protein-1(AP-1) or nuclear factor of activated T cells(NFAT). Chromatin immunoprecipitation(ChI P)assay was accomplished to detect the binding of NF-κB p65 subunit to the apoE promoter in HEK-293 treated with 500 μmol/L Hcy. As control, cells were incubated with similar concentration of cysteine. NF-κB p65 proteins bound to DNA were immunoprecipitated with anti-p65 antibodies and DNA was identified by PCR using primers amplifying the region-100/+4 of the apoE gene. RESULTS: RT-PCR revealed that high levels of Hcy(250-750 μmol/L) induced a 2-3 fold decrease in apoE m RNA levels in HEK-293 cells, while apo E gene expression was not significantly affected by treatment with lower concentrations of Hcy(100 μmol/L). Immunoblotting data provided additional evidence for the negative role of Hcy in apoE expression. Hcy decreased apoE promoter activity, in the presence or absence of ME2, in a dose dependent manner, in both RAW 264.7 and HEK-293 cells, as revealed by transient transfection experiments. The downstream effectors of the signaling pathways of Hcy were also investigated. The inhibitory effect of Hcy on the apo E promoter activity was counteracted by MAPK/ERK kinase 1/2(MEK1/2) inhibitor U0126, suggesting that MEK1/2 is involved in the downregulation of apoE promoter activity by Hcy. Our data demonstrated that Hcy-induced inhibition of apoE took place through activation of NF-κB. Moreover, we demonstrated that Hcy activated a synthetic promoter containing three NF-κB binding sites, but did not affect promoters containing AP-1 or NFAT binding sites. ChI P experiments revealed that NF-κB p65 subunit is recruited to the apoE promoter following Hcy treatment of cells.CONCLUSION: Hcy-induced stress negatively modulates apoE expression via MEK1/2 and NF-κB activation. The decreased apo E expression in peripheral tissues may aggravate atherosclerosis, neurodegenerative diseases and renal dysfunctions.

High Prevalence and Factors Contributing to Hyperhomocysteinemia, Folate Deficiency, and Vitamin B_(12) Deficiency among Healthy Adults in Shanghai, China

Elevated plasma or serum total homocysteine (tHcy) level has been established as a risk factor for cardiovascular disease[1], as well as dementia and cognitive decline[2]. Plasma or serum folate and vitamin B12 influence homocysteine (Hcy) metabolism as a co-substrate and cofactor respectively, so that low concentrations of folate and vitamin B12 are also associated with high Hcy levels[1]. However, not much information is available describing serum tHcy, folate, and vitamin B12 status in Shanghai adults, especially in a healthy population. Therefore, we hypothesize that low serum folate and vitamin B12 is associated with high Hcy in healthy adults in Shanghai. The aim of this study was to determine the status of serum tHcy, folate, and vitamin B12, and the prevalence and factors contributing to HHcy, folate deficiency, and vitamin B12 deficiency among healthy adults in Shanghai, China.

The Impact of Third Trimester Maternal Serum Vitamin B12 and Folate Status on Fetal Birth Weight. Is Maternal Serum Homocysteine a Predictor of Low Birth Weight Infants?

Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate vitamin B12, folate, and homocysteine status in pregnant women in the third trimester of pregnancy and their relationship to fetal birth weight and their correlation to corresponding neonatal cord blood levels, and in addition, to evaluate the possibility of maternal serum homocysteine level as a predictor of low birth weight infants. Subjects and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, a total of two hundred pregnant women in third trimester (≥28 weeks) were recruited. After a detailed obstetrical and medical history, and clinical assessment, participants were subdivided into two groups: Group (A)—pregnant women who delivered average birth weight (ABW) infants and Group (B) for those who delivered low birth weight (LBW) infants between completed 37 and 42 weeks. Results: Vitamin B12 deficiency was observed in 24.1% of the total cohort. The mean vitamin B12 level was significantly lower in group (B) compared to group (A) (195.2 ± 38.9 vs. 225.9 ± 66.59 respectively P = 0.008). The mean level of homocysteine for women in group (B) was significantly higher than those determined from women in group (A) (9.10 ± 5.9 vs. 7.6 ± 3.83 respectively, P = 0.042). On the other hand, the mean folate levels showed statistically insignificant differences between both groups. The mean cord vitamin B12 level was significantly lower in LBW infants in comparison to ABW infants (277 ± 61.93 vs. 312.03 ± 81.87 respectively, P = 0.015), while the mean level of cord homocysteine for LBW infants was significantly higher than those levels determined from ABW infants (7.9 ± 3.79 vs. 6.6 ± 2.09 respectively P = 0.0049). Conclusion: Maternal micronutrients particularly cobalamin deficiency could be significant risk for LBW infants. Hyperhomocysteinemia has been shown to be a predictor for adverse pregnancy outcomes particularly LBW.

Serum Vitamin B12 and Homocysteine Levels in Type 2 Diabetic Patients with and without Metformin Therapy

Background: Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is an essential micronutrient necessary for DNA methylation and plays role in lipid metabolic reactions. Metformin is the first therapeutic choice for T2DM management. Prolonged use of metformin causes vitamin B12 deficiency due to poor absorption by interfering with calcium-based vitamin B12 absorption. Vitamin B12 deficiency leads to elevated homocysteine levels. The aim of this study was to evaluate serum vitamin B12 and homocysteine levels in type 2 diabetic patients with and without metformin therapy. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on two hundred and thirty diabetic patients (180 males and 50 females). Their ages ranged from (30 - 60 years) living in Saudia Arabia at Al-Madinah Al-Monawarah. Patients were selected at outpatients clinics of Islamic University Medical Center during follow up at internal medicine and endocrinology clinic. The included patients were diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus according to American Diabetes Association (ADA) Criteria. The included patients were categorized into two groups according to treatment with metformin drug. Laboratory measurements included serum level of vitamin B12, serum total homocysteine, serum fasting glucose and serum folate. Blood EDTA samples were used to measure HbA1c and MCV. Neurological examinations were performed to detect presence of peripheral neuropathy using Toronto Clinical Neuropathy Score (TCSS), which is a validated and reliable scale for the diagnosis and staging of diabetic polyneuropathy. Results: There were no statistical differences between the two groups as regard (age, sex, smoking, weight, BMI, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, Folate and MCV). There were statistical differences between the two groups as regard (duration of diabetes, duration of metformin therapy, dose of metformin, Serum homocystein and HbA1c). The mean of vitamin B12 (pg/mL) of group 1 (312.65 ± 92.28) was lower than that of group 2 (381.55 ± 88.04). In group 1 number of patients with normal vitamin B12 was 116 out of 150 (77.3%) and number of patients with deficient vitamin B12 was 34 out of 150 (22.7%). In group 2 number of patients with normal vitamin B12 was 72 out of 80 (90%) and number of patients with deficient vitamin B12 was 8 out of 80 (10%). Regarding neuropathy;in group 1 113 patients (75.3%) had no neuropathy, 24 patients (16%) had mild neuropathy and 13 patients (8.7%) had moderate neuropathy. In group 2, 71 patients (88.8%) had no neuropathy, 7 patients (8.7%) had mild neuropathy and 2 patients (2.5%) had moderate neuropathy. In conclusion, in our study, the prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency was higher in metformin users than in non-metformin users. There was an association between vitamin B12 deficiency and the dose and duration of metformin use. There was also an increase in homocysteine level due to vitamin B12 deficiency. Therefore, we recommend routine screening for serum vitamin B12 and homocysteine in individuals with T2DM who take daily metformin doses higher than 2000 mg, or for a duration exceeding 4 years.

Correlation of folic acid, vitamin B12 and homocysteine metabolism with lipid levels and inflammatory response in patients with cerebral infarction

Objective:To study the correlation of folic acid, vitamin B12 and homocysteine metabolism with lipid level and inflammatory response in patients with cerebral infarction.Methods:86 patients with cerebral infarction treated in our hospital between January 2015 and June 2016 were collected as cerebral infarction group and 70 healthy subjects receiving physical examination in our hospital during the same period were selected as normal control group. Immediately after admission, RIA method was used to detect peripheral blood folic acid, Vit12 and Hcy levels;automatic biochemical analyzer was used to determine lipid level;enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect serum inflammatory factor levels. Results:Serum folic acid and VitB12 levels of cerebral infarction group were lower than those of normal control group while Hcy level was higher than that of normal control group (P<0.05);serum total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1) levels of cerebral infarction group were higher than those of normal control group while high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) level was lower than that of normal control group (P<0.05);serum interleukin-4 (IL-4) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) levels of cerebral infarction group were lower than those of normal control group while interleukin-8 (IL-8), C-reactive protein (CRP) and tumor necrosis factorα (TNF-α) levels were higher than those of normal control group (P<0.05). The Spearman correlation analysis showed that the folic acid, VitB12 and Hcy levels in patients with cerebral infarction were directly correlated with lipid levels and inflammatory response.Conclusions:Folic acid, vitamin B12 and homocysteine metabolism can directly affect the lipid levels and inflammatory response in patients with cerebral infarction, and are the reliable indexes to early judge the disease severity and guide clinical treatment.

Correlation between plasma hydrogen sulfide and homocysteine in patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia

Objective: To investigate the correlation between plasma hydrogen sulfide (H2S), homocysteine (Hcy), folic acid and vitamin B12 in patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) before and after treatment. Methods:A total of 26 hospitalized patients with APL were randomly selected as case group and 26 healthy persons as control group. The concentration of H2S, Hcy and folic acid in plasma of case group and control group were measured, respectively. The statistically significant difference was investigated by comparing the acute onset phase and clinical remission of case group with those of healthy control group. Results:The concentration of H2S and Hcy of plasma in patients of case group during acute onset phase significantly increased, and concentration of folic acid significantly decreased, and there were both statistically significant differences as compared with those during clinical remission and those of control group (P<0.01). The concentration of H2S and Hcy of plasma in patients of case group during clinical remission after treatment decreased, and concentration of folic acid increased. The result was close to that of healthy control group, and there was no statistically significant difference (P>0.05). The change in concentration of plasma H2S was positively correlated with that of Hcy and negatively correlated with that of folic acid in patients of case group before and after treatment. Conclusions:The increase of plasma H2S in patients with APL may be related to the changes in concentration of Hcy and folic acid.

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

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