Semaphorin 7A impairs barrier function in cultured human corneal epithelial cells in a manner dependent on nuclear factor-kappa B

●AIM:To evaluate the role of semaphorin 7A(Sema7A)and its associated regulatory mechanisms in modulating the barrier function of cultured human corneal epithelial cells(HCEs).●METHODS:Barrier models of HCEs were treated with recombinant human Sema7A at concentrations of 0,125,250,or 500 ng/mL for 24,48,or 72h in vitro.Transepithelial electrical resistance(TEER)as well as Dextran-fluorescein isothiocyanate(FITC)permeability assays were conducted to assess barrier function.To quantify tight junctions(TJs)such as occludin and zonula occludens-1(ZO-1)at the mRNA level,reverse transcriptionpolymerase chain reaction(RT-PCR)analysis was performed.Immunoblotting was used to examine the activity of the nuclear factor-kappa B(NF-κB)signaling pathway and the production of TJs proteins.Immunofluorescence analyses were employed to localize the TJs.Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA)and RT-PCR were utilized to observe changes in interleukin(IL)-1βlevels.To investigate the role of NF-κB signaling activation and IL^(-1)βin Sema7A’s anti-barrier mechanism,we employed 0.1μmol/L IκB kinase 2(IKK2)inhibitor IV or 500 ng/mL IL^(-1)receptor(IL-1R)antagonist.●RESULTS:Treatment with Sema7A resulted in decreased TEER and increased permeability of Dextran-FITC in HCEs through down-regulating mRNA and protein levels of TJs in a time-and dose-dependent manner,as well as altering the localization of TJs.Furthermore,Sema7A stimulated the activation of inhibitor of kappa B alpha(IκBα)and expression of IL-1β.The anti-barrier function of Sema7A was significantly suppressed by treatment with IKK2 inhibitor IV or IL-1R antagonists.●CONCLUSION:Sema7A disrupts barrier function through its influence on NF-κB-mediated expression of TJ proteins,as well as the expression of IL-1β.These findings suggest that Sema7A could be a potential therapeutic target for the diseases in corneal epithelium.

Silencing of Jumonji domain-containing 1C inhibits the osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells via nuclear factor-κB signaling

BACKGROUND Osteoporosis is a common metabolic bone disorder induced by an imbalance between osteoclastic activity and osteogenic activity.During osteoporosis,bone mesenchymal stem cells(BMSCs)exhibit an increased ability to differentiate into adipocytes and a decreased ability to differentiate into osteoblasts,resulting in bone loss.Jumonji domain-containing 1C(JMJD1C)has been demonstrated to suppress osteoclastogenesis.AIM To examine the effect of JMJD1C on the osteogenesis of BMSCs and the potential underlying mechanism.METHODS BMSCs were isolated from mouse bone marrow tissues.Oil Red O staining,Alizarin red staining,alkaline phosphatase staining and the expression of adipo-genic and osteogenic-associated genes were assessed to determine the differen-tiation of BMSCs.Bone marrow-derived macrophages(BMMs)were incubated with receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappaΒligand to induce osteoclast differentiation,and osteoclast differen-tiation was confirmed by tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining.Other related genes were measured via reverse transcription coupled to the quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting.Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were used to measure the levels of inflammatory cytokines,including tumor necrosis factor alpha,interleukin-6 and interleukin-1 beta.RESULTS The osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation potential of BMSCs isolated from mouse bone marrow samples was evaluated.JMJD1C mRNA and protein expression was upregulated in BMSCs after osteoblast induction,while p-nuclear factor-κB(NF-κB)and inflammatory cytokines were not significantly altered.Knockdown of JMJD1C repressed osteogenic differentiation and enhanced NF-κB activation and inflammatory cytokine release in BMSCs.Moreover,JMJD1C expression decreased during BMM osteoclast differentiation.CONCLUSION The JMJD1C/NF-κB signaling pathway is potentially involved in BMSC osteogenic differentiation and may play vital roles in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis.

Are TrkB receptor agonists the right tool to fulfill the promises for a therapeutic value of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor?

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor signaling via its receptor tro pomyosin receptor kinase B regulates several crucial physiological processes.It has been shown to act in the brain,promoting neuronal survival,growth,and plasticity as well as in the rest of the body where it is involved in regulating for instance aspects of the metabolism.Due to its crucial and very pleiotro pic activity,reduction of brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels and alterations in the brain-derived neurotrophic factor/tropomyosin receptor kinase B signaling have been found to be associated with a wide spectrum of neurological diseases.Howeve r,because of its poor bioavailability and pharmacological properties,brain-derived neurotrophic factor itself has a very low therapeutic value.Moreover,the concomitant binding of exogenous brain-derived neurotrophic factor to the p75 neurotrophin receptor has the potential to elicit several unwanted and deleterious side effects.Therefo re,developing tools and approaches to specifically promote tropomyosin receptor kinase B signaling has become an important goal of translational research.Among the newly developed tools are different categories of tropomyosin receptor kinase B receptor agonist molecules.In this review,we give a comprehensive description of the diffe rent tro pomyosin receptor kinase B receptor agonist drugs developed so far and of the res ults of their application in animal models of several neurological diseases.Moreover,we discuss the main benefits of tropomyosin receptor kinase B receptor agonists,concentrating especially on the new tropomyosin receptor kinase B agonist antibodies.The benefits observed both in vitro and in vivo upon application of tropomyosin receptor kinase B receptor agonist drugs seem to predominantly depend on their general neuroprotective activity and their ability to promote neuronal plasticity.Moreover,tro pomyosin receptor kinase B agonist antibodies have been shown to specifically bind the tropomyosin receptor kinase B receptor and not p75 neurotrophin receptor.Therefore,while,based on the current knowledge,the tropomyosin receptor kinase B receptor agonists do not seem to have the potential to reve rse the disease pathology per se,promoting brainderived neurotrophic factor/tro pomyosin receptor kinase B signaling still has a very high therapeutic relevance.

Prevalence of Hepatitis B and Associated Factors in the Garoua Central Prison, Cameroon: A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major public health problem in Cameroon. Garoua city is the headquarters of the North Region of Cameroon, where the HBV prevalence is among the highest of the country. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of HBsAg carriage and associated factors among persons incarcerated in the Garoua Central Prison. Methods: It was a cross-sectional study conducted from July 1 to July 31, 2023 at the Garoua Central prison. We included all prisoners willing to participate in the study and who gave their verbal consent. We collected data using a pre-established data entry form and we used rapid test for blood screening for HBV surface antigen (HBs Ag) with ELISA confirmation. Data were analyzed using the R® software for Windows. After the univariate analysis, we selected associated variables to HBV infection with p-value p-value was set at 5%. Results: We included 1389 prisoners out of which 97.6% were male. The median age (IQR) of the study population was 28 (23 - 35) years. The median (IQR) duration of incarceration was 12 (6 - 26) months and the mean (±sd) number of incarcerations was 1.24 (±0.6). HBV prevalence was estimated at 14.8% (95% CI: 13.0 - 16.7). Upon uni- and multivariate analysis, no risk factor was significantly associated with viral hepatitis B infection in our study population. Conclusion: The prevalence of Hepatitis B was high in the Garoua Central Prison, but there were no additional risk factors for HBV infection. There is a need to include the Garoua Central Prison and by the way other prisons in the country in the chronic viral hepatitis care program.

Factors Associated with Renal Impairment in Patients on Tenofovir for Chronic Hepatitis B in Yaoundé (Cameroon)

Background: Tenofovir (TFV) is widely used to treat patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. But kidney abnormalities are the main concern using this drug. Few studies have described the renal impairment due to the TFV in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) in Sub-Saharan Africa. The objective was to evaluate factors associated with renal impairment observed in patients on TFV for CHB. Method: It was a hospital based cross sectional prospective study carried out from June 2023 to July 2023 in Yaoundé (Cameroon) and included any patient treated with TFV for CHB during at least a period of 6 months. For each participant, we collected in the medical report socio-demographic data, clinical data, baseline creatinine, treatment information (type of TFV which was Disoproxil Fumarate (TDF) or Alafenamide (TAF), duration). Then, we collected blood samples to measure serum creatinine and phosphate levels and urine dipstick analysis. Factors associated with renal impairment were assessed with the Odds Ratio. A p value of Results: A total of 60 participants were included. The median age was 44 years [36-55] and median duration of TFV therapy was 17.5 months [11.7-25.7]. The prevalence of reduced eGFR (Conclusion: Kidney function was impaired in some patients receiving TFV for CHB. It should be monitored, particularly after 36 months and for those receiving TDF prodrug.

Prospective study of hepatitis B and D epidemiology and risk factors in Romania:A 10-year update

BACKGROUND The global burden of hepatitis D virus(HDV)infection represents a major medical challenge and a public health crisis worldwide.However,there is a lack of accurate data on the epidemiology and risk factors for HDV.Hepatitis B virus(HBV)and HDV coinfection causes the most severe form of viral hepatitis,leading to a higher cumulative incidence of liver-related events compared with HBV monoinfection,including the need for liver transplantation and death.AIM To investigate the epidemiology,natural history,risk factors and clinical management of HBV and HDV coinfection in Romanian patients.METHODS This prospective study was conducted between January and July 2022 in six tertiary gastroenterology and hepatology referral centres in Romania.All consecutive adults admitted for any gastroenterology diagnosis who were HBV-positive were enrolled.Patients with acute hepatitis or incomplete data were excluded.Of the 25390 individuals who presented with any type of gastroenterology diagnosis during the study period,963 met the inclusion criteria.Testing for anti-HDV antibodies and HDV RNA was performed for all participants.Demographic and risk factor data were collected by investigators using medical charts and patient questionnaires.All data were stored in an anonymized online database during the study.RESULTS The prevalence of HBV was 3.8%;among these patients,the prevalence of HBV/HDV coinfection was 33.1%.The median age of the study population was 54.0 years,and it consisted of 55.1%men.A higher prevalence of HBV/HDV coinfection was observed in patients 50–69 years old.Patients with HBV/HDV coinfection were significantly older than those with HBV monoinfection(P=0.03).Multivariate multiple regression analysis identified female gender(P=0.0006),imprisonment(P<0.0001),older age at diagnosis(P=0.01)and sexual contact with persons with known viral hepatitis(P=0.0003)as significant risk factors for HDV.CONCLUSION This study shows that HDV infection among those with HBV remains endemic in Romania and updates our understanding of HDV epidemiology and associated risk factors.It emphasizes the need for systematic screening for HDV infection and collaborative initiatives for controlling and preventing HBV and HDV infection.

Evaluation of combined detection of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 and glutathione peroxidase 4 in primary hepatic carcinoma and preliminary exploration of pathogenesis

This study aims to analyze the clinical significance and mechanism of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2(NRF2)and glutathione peroxidase 4(GPX4)in primary hepatic carcinoma(PHC).Methods:The expression of NRF2 and GPX4 in peripheral blood of patients with PHC was determined to analyze the diagnostic value of the two combined for PHC.The prognostic significance of NRF2 and GPX4 was evaluated by 3-year followup.Human liver epithelial cells THLE-2 and human hepatocellular carcinoma cells HepG2 were purchased,and the expression of NRF2 and GPX4 in the cells was determined.NRF2 and GPX4 aberrant expression vectors were constructed and transfected into HepG2,and changes in cell proliferation and invasion capabilities were observed.Results:The expression of NRF2 and GPX4 in patients with PHC was higher than that in patients with LC or VH(p<0.05),and the two indicators combined was excellent in diagnosing PHC.Moreover,patients with high expression of NRF2 and GPX4 had a higher risk of death(p<0.05).In in vitro experiments,both NRF2 and GPX4 expression was elevated in HepG2(p<0.05).HepG2 activity was enhanced by increasing the expression of the two,vice versa(p<0.05).Conclusion:NRF2 and GPX4 combined is excellent in diagnosing PHC,and promotes the malignant development of PHC.

白细胞介素6与核因子κB对胰腺癌的诊断价值及其与临床病理分期的关系研究

目的探究白细胞介素6(IL-6)、核因子κB(NF-κB)对胰腺癌的诊断价值及其与胰腺癌临床病理分期的关系。方法收集2019年6月至2022年6月新疆维吾尔自治区人民医院收治的68例胰腺癌患者作为病例组,60例同期于本院门诊健康体检者作为对照组。检测2组受试者血清中IL-6、NF-κB的表达水平,采用受试者工作特征(ROC)曲线分析IL-6、NF-κB表达对胰腺癌诊断的价值;比较不同临床病理分期患者血清IL-6、NF-κB水平的表达差异。结果病例组患者血清IL-6和NF-κB水平明显高于对照组,差异有统计学意义[IL-6:16.33(8.41,67.41)ng/L比6.15(5.55,7.33)ng/L,Z=6.109,P<0.001;NF-κB:449.52(230.37,568.28)ng/L比150.35(126.48,167.30)ng/L,Z=5.463,P<0.001]。IL-6、NF-κB诊断胰腺癌ROC曲线下面积(AUC)分别为0.813±0.041、0.920±0.024,联合检测的AUC为0.923±0.024。T_(3)、T_(4)期胰腺癌患者血清IL-6、NF-κB水平与T_(1)、T_(2)期患者比较差异均有统计学意义(均P<0.05)。血清IL-6、NF-κB水平随着淋巴结转移程度(N_(0)~N_(2))的增高而增高,差异均有统计学意义(均P<0.05),且N_(1)、N_(2)期胰腺癌患者血清IL-6、NF-κB水平与N_(0)期患者相比,差异均有统计学意义(均P<0.05)。远处转移胰腺癌患者(M_(1))的血清IL-6、NF-κB水平高于未远处转移的患者(M_(0)),差异有统计学意义(P=0.024)。结论血清IL-6、NF-κB可以作为胰腺癌早期诊断、临床病理分期的血清学标志物,其可能与胰腺癌的发生、发展密切相关。

HMGB1基因敲除通过抑制TLR4/NF-κB通路减轻脓毒症小鼠急性肺损伤

目的 研究高迁移率族蛋白B1(HMGB1)基因敲除减轻脓毒症小鼠急性肺损伤及抑制Toll样受体4(TLR4)/核因子-κB(NF-κB)通路的作用。方法 野生型(WT)小鼠分为WT-Sham组和WT-模型组,HMGB1基因敲除(KO)小鼠分为KO-Sham组和KO-模型组。WT-模型组和KO-模型组采用盲肠结扎穿孔术制备脓毒症ALI模型,WT-Sham组和KO-Sham组进行假手术操作。造模后24 h,检测动脉血氧分压(PaO_(2)),计算氧合指数(OI),检测肺组织病理改变,计算肺损伤评分,检测血清及肺组织中肿瘤坏死因子-α(TNF-α)、白细胞介素-1β(IL-1β)、IL-6、活性氧簇(ROS)、丙二醛(MDA)、超氧化物歧化酶(SOD)的浓度,肺组织中HMGB1、TLR4、核NF-κB的表达。结果 WT-模型组的PaO_(2)、OI、血清及肺组织SOD的浓度低于WT-Sham组,肺损伤评分、血清及肺组织中TNF-α、IL-1β、IL-6、ROS、MDA的浓度、肺组织中HMGB1、TLR4、核NF-κB的表达水平高于WT-Sham组(P<0.05);KO-模型组肺组织中不表达HMGB1,PaO_(2)、OI、血清及肺组织SOD的浓度高于WT-模型组,肺损伤评分、血清及肺组织中TNF-α、IL-1β、IL-6、ROS、MDA的浓度、肺组织中TLR4、核NF-κB的表达水平低于WT-模型组(P<0.05)。结论敲除HMGB1减轻脓毒症小鼠ALI,相关的分子机制可能是抑制TLR4/NF-κB通路介导的炎症反应和氧化应激反应。

左归降糖舒心方调控TLR4/NF-κB通路抑制糖尿病心肌病小鼠心肌纤维化的机制研究

目的 基于Toll样受体4(Toll-like receptor 4,TLR4)/核因子κB(nuclear factor-κB,NF-κB)信号通路探讨左归降糖舒心方对糖尿病心肌病MKR小鼠心肌纤维化及炎症因子的影响。方法 以8周龄雄性MKR小鼠为实验对象,采用高脂饮食联合腹腔注射链脲佐菌素(streptozotocin,STZ)40 mg/kg构建糖尿病心肌病模型,随机分为中药高剂量组[33.67 g/(kg·d)左归降糖舒心方2 g/mL]、中药低剂量组[16.84 g/(kg·d)左归降糖舒心方2 g/mL]、西药联合组[0.23 g/(kg·d)二甲双胍联合1.5 mg/(kg·d)依那普利]和模型组(等容量蒸馏水);另设FVB小鼠为空白对照组(等容量蒸馏水)。每组10只,连续给药8周后取材。收集尾静脉血液检测空腹血糖水平;采用HE、Masson染色观察心肌病理改变,电镜观察心肌组织超微结构变化;采用ELISA检测小鼠血清肿瘤坏死因子-α(tumor necrosis factor-α,TNF-α)及白细胞介素-1β(interleukin-1β,IL-1β)含量;采用Western blot法检测TLR4、NF-κB p56、p-NF-κB p56/NF-κB p56蛋白表达情况;RT-qPCR及Western blot检测小鼠心肌组织Ⅰ型胶原(collagen type I,CollagenⅠ)、Ⅲ型胶原(collagen typeⅢ,CollagenⅢ)及α-平滑肌肌动蛋白(α-smooth muscle actin,α-SMA)的表达水平。结果 与空白对照组比较,模型组小鼠空腹血糖及血清中TNF-α、IL-1β含量增高(P<0.01);心肌细胞结构紊乱,胶原含量增加,心肌细胞重度退行性变;心肌组织中TLR4、NF-κB p56、p-NF-κB p56/NF-κB p56蛋白表达上调(P<0.01),CollagenⅠ、CollagenⅢ、α-SMA mRNA及蛋白表达增加(P<0.05,P<0.01),中药高剂量组小鼠心肌组织CollagenⅠ、CollagenⅢ蛋白表达增加(P<0.01)。与模型组比较,中药高、低剂量组和西药联合组小鼠空腹血糖及血清中TNF-α、IL-1β含量均降低(P<0.01);心肌结构改善,胶原沉积减少;心肌组织中TLR4、NF-κB p56、p-NF-κB p56/NF-κB p56蛋白表达下调(P<0.01),CollagenⅠ、CollagenⅢ、α-SMA蛋白及mRNA表达下调(P<0.01)。与西药联合组比较,中药低剂量组小鼠空腹血糖及血清中TNF-α、IL-1β含量均升高(P<0.01),心肌结构无明显改善,胶原沉积无显著减少;心肌组织中TLR4、NF-κB p56、p-NF-κB p56/NF-κB p56蛋白表达上调(P<0.01),CollagenⅠ、CollagenⅢ、α-SMA蛋白及mRNA表达上调(P<0.01)。结论 左归降糖舒心方能抑制心肌炎性反应、改善心肌细胞结构,其作用机制可能与调控TLR4/NF-κB通路、下调细胞炎症因子表达、抑制心肌纤维化有关。

五味子乙素通过TLR4/NF-κB信号通路对急性胰腺炎大鼠肺部损伤的影响

目的:探讨五味子乙素通过Toll样受体4(TLR4)/核转录因子-κB(NF-κB)信号通路对急性胰腺炎(AP)大鼠肺部损伤的影响。方法:取SD大鼠,通过胆胰管内逆行注射5%牛磺胆酸钠方法诱导建立AP肺损伤模型,经随机数表法分为模型组、五味子乙素组、TLR4过表达载体组、TLR4空载组、五味子乙素+TLR4过表达载体组,每组12只大鼠,再取12只SD大鼠仅翻动肠管不注射5%牛磺胆酸钠,作为假手术组。以药物分别干预大鼠后,检测各组大鼠肺功能及各组大鼠腹水量与肺组织湿重/干重(W/D);HE染色检测各组大鼠肺组织病理形态并评分;检测各组大鼠动脉血气;全自动生化分析仪检测大鼠血清淀粉酶,ELISA检测炎症细胞因子IL-6、IL-18水平;蛋白免疫印迹法检测肺组织TLR4/NF-κB通路蛋白表达;免疫组织化学染色检测肺组织TLR4蛋白表达。结果:与假手术组相比,模型组大鼠肺组织出现病理损伤改变,模型组大鼠MV、PEF、PaO_(2)、OI显著降低(P<0.05),Ri、腹水量与W/D、PaCO_(2)、Holfbauer评分、血清淀粉酶、IL-6与IL-18水平、肺组织TLR4阳性细胞比例、TLR4与MYD88蛋白表达、p-NF-κB p65/NF-κB p65水平显著升高(P<0.05)。与模型组、五味子乙素+TLR4过表达载体组分别相比,五味子乙素组大鼠肺组织病理损伤改变程度均减轻,MV、PEF、PaO_(2)、OI均升高(P<0.05),Ri、腹水量与W/D、PaCO_(2)、Holfbauer评分、血清淀粉酶、IL-6与IL-18水平、肺组织TLR4阳性细胞比例、TLR4与MYD88蛋白表达、p-NF-κB p65/NF-κB p65水平均降低(P<0.05);TLR4过表达载体组大鼠肺组织病理损伤改变程度均加重,MV、PEF、PaO_(2)、OI均降低(P<0.05),Ri、腹水量与W/D、PaCO_(2)、Holfbauer评分、血清淀粉酶、IL-6与IL-18水平、肺组织TLR4阳性细胞比例、TLR4与MYD88蛋白表达、p-NF-κB p65/NF-κB p65水平均升高(P<0.05)。与模型组相比,TLR4空载组大鼠各指标差异无统计学意义(P>0.05)。结论:五味子乙素可通过下调TLR4/NF-κB信号通路,抑制炎症,减轻AP大鼠肺部损伤,修复肺功能。

(+)-丁香树脂酚通过NF-κB信号调节三阴性乳腺癌细胞生长和转移的实验研究

目的:探讨(+)-丁香树脂酚[(+)-Syringaresinol]对三阴性乳腺癌(TNBC)细胞生长和转移的影响,分析其对核因子-κB(NF-κB)信号的影响。方法:根据(+)-丁香树脂酚处理浓度将MDA-MB-231细胞分为0μM组、2μM组、4μM组、8μM组、16μM组、32μM组、64μM组和128μM组。使用相应浓度的(+)-丁香树脂酚孵育各组MDA-MB-231细胞48 h。MTT法检测细胞增殖及(+)-丁香树脂酚半抑制浓度(IC50)值。Annexin V-FITC/PI试剂盒检测细胞凋亡。Transwell检测细胞迁移和侵袭。qRT-PCR检测Bax、Bcl-2、基质金属蛋白酶(MMP)-2、MMP-9、E-cadherin、N-cadherin和Vimentin mRNA相对表达量。Western blot检测NF-κB p65磷酸化水平。结果:与0μM组相比,2~128μM组的MDA-MB-231细胞的生长抑制率升高(P<0.05)。(+)-丁香树脂酚对MDA-MB-231细胞的IC50值为25.24μmol/L。与0μM组相比,2~128μM组的MDA-MB-231细胞的凋亡率升高,Bax mRNA相对表达量升高,Bcl-2 mRNA相对表达量降低,迁移和侵袭数量降低,MMP-2和MMP-9的mRNA相对表达量降低,E-cadherin mRNA相对表达量升高,N-cadherin和Vimentin的mRNA相对表达量降低,p-NF-κB p65/NF-κB p65蛋白相对表达量降低(P<0.05)。结论:(+)-丁香树脂酚抑制了TNBC细胞的生长和转移并呈浓度依赖性,(+)-丁香树脂酚的抗TNBC作用可能与抑制NF-κB信号通路的活化有关。

三黄益肾胶囊调控NF-κB信号通路减轻糖尿病肾病大鼠炎症反应的机制研究

目的:旨在探究三黄益肾胶囊治疗糖尿病肾病(DN)可能的炎症反应机制。方法:按照随机数字表法将60只大鼠分为正常组、模型组、厄贝沙坦组及三黄益肾低、中、高剂量组,每组10只。除正常组外,其余各组大鼠用高糖高脂饲料联合链脲佐菌素(STZ)注射建立DN模型。正常组和模型组给予生理盐水2 mL灌胃;厄贝沙坦组给予厄贝沙坦11.51 mg/kg灌胃;三黄益肾低、中、高剂量组分别给予三黄益肾胶囊0.41、0.81、1.62 g/kg灌胃。各组大鼠均1次/d,连续给药4周。比较各组大鼠空腹血糖(FBG)、体质量、24 h尿白蛋白、肾功能指标、肾组织病理学变化、肾组织抗氧化相关指标(SOD、GSH-Px活性及MDA水平)、肾组织炎症介质[白细胞介素6(IL-6)、白细胞介素1β(IL-1β)、肿瘤坏死因子α(TNF-α)]、肾组织诱导型一氧化氮合酶(iNOS)、肾组织CD68、CC趋化因子受体2(CCR2)表达、肾组织CC趋化因子配体2(CCL2)、NF-κB P65、p-NF-κB P65、IκB、p-IκB表达。结果:与模型组比较,各三黄益肾胶囊组大鼠体质量高,FBG、血清肌酐(Cr)、尿素氮(BUN)及24 h尿蛋白水平低,肾脏组织病理变化减轻,三肾组织中SOD、GSH-Px活性高,MDA水平低,IL-6、IL-1β、TNF-α水平低,肾组织中iNOS水平低,肾组织CCR2与CD68共定位水平低,CCL2、p-NF-κB P65、p-IκB蛋白表达低。结论:三黄益肾胶囊治疗DN的机制可能与抑制肾组织中NF-κB信号通路激活,减轻肾脏氧化应激及炎症反应有关。

黄芪阳和汤调控PI3K/AKT/NF-κB信号通路促进糖尿病足溃疡大鼠创面愈合

目的基于磷脂酰肌醇3-激酶(PI3K)/蛋白激酶B(AKT)/核因子-κB(NF-κB)信号通路探究黄芪阳和汤对糖尿病足溃疡(DFU)大鼠创面愈合的影响。方法构建DFU大鼠模型,将建模成功的48只大鼠随机分为模型组,黄芪阳和汤低(8.5 g/kg)、高(17 g/kg)剂量组,黄芪阳和汤高剂量(17 g/kg)+LY294002(PI3K/AKT通路抑制剂,0.3 mg/kg)组;每组12只;另取12只大鼠为对照组。各组大鼠给予对应药物干预,连续4周。第14、28天给药后,观察大鼠一般状态及创面变化,计算创面愈合率,检测大鼠空腹血糖(FBG)水平和大鼠创面周围组织经皮氧分压(TcpO2);酶联免疫吸附试验检测大鼠血清血管内皮生长因子(VEGF)、缺氧诱导因子-1α(HIF-1α)、C反应蛋白(CRP)、白细胞介素(IL)-6水平;苏木素-伊红染色观察大鼠创面组织病理学变化;免疫组织化学染色测定大鼠创面组织微血管密度;蛋白免疫印迹法检测大鼠创面组织中PI3K、磷酸化PI3K(p-PI3K)、AKT、磷酸化AKT(p-AKT)、NF-κB p65、磷酸化NF-κB p65(p-NF-κB p65)、NF-κB抑制蛋白α(IκB-α)蛋白表达。结果对照组大鼠毛色光滑,饮食、饮水、排泄均正常,较活跃,创面愈合快,创面组织炎症反应较轻,新生血管较多,肉芽组织中成纤维细胞及胶原基质丰富;模型组大鼠毛色暗淡无光泽,活动减少,且出现多饮、多食、多尿症状,创面颜色较深,且周围组织出现水肿、溃疡,创面组织可见大量炎性细胞浸润,伴组织坏死、渗出,新生血管及成纤维细胞较少,创面愈合率、创面周围组织TcpO2、血清VEGF、HIF-1α、创面组织微血管密度、p-PI3K、p-AKT、IκB-α蛋白表达水平降低,FBG、血清CRP、IL-6、创面组织p-NF-κB p65蛋白表达升高(P<0.05);与模型组相比,黄芪阳和汤低、高剂量组大鼠状态逐渐改善,创面组织病变程度依次减轻,创面愈合率、创面周围组织TcpO2、血清VEGF、HIF-1α、创面组织微血管密度、p-PI3K、p-AKT、IκB-α蛋白表达水平依次升高,FBG、血清CRP、IL-6、创面组织p-NF-κB p65蛋白表达依次降低(P<0.05);LY294002能部分逆转高剂量黄芪阳和汤对DFU大鼠的治疗作用(P<0.05)。结论黄芪阳和汤能调控PI3K/AKT/NF-κB信号通路,抑制DFU大鼠炎症反应,促进血管新生,从而促进创面愈合。

单核细胞Toll样受体和核因子-κB水平与2型糖尿病患者自主神经病变的相关性

目的探讨单核细胞中Toll样受体(TLR)、核因子-κB(NF-κB)表达水平与2型糖尿病(T2DM)患者自主神经病变的相关性。方法选择2021年4月至2022年12月濮阳市人民医院收治的112例T2DM患者为观察组,另选择同期在本院进行体检的50例健康志愿者为对照组。采用反转录聚合酶链反应检测2组受试者血浆单核细胞中TLR2、TLR4、NF-κB表达水平。根据是否并发有自主神经病变将观察组患者分为自主神经病变组(n=46)和无自主神经病变组(n=66),比较2组患者的临床资料,将差异有统计学意义的指标进一步行多因素logistic回归来分析T2DM患者发生自主神经病变的危险因素;采用Spearman相关分析TLR2、TLR4、NF-κB表达水平与T2DM患者发生自主神经病变的相关性。结果观察组患者单核细胞中TLR2、TLR4、NF-κB水平显著高于对照组(P<0.05)。单因素分析结果显示,自主神经病变组与无自主神经病变组患者的年龄、单核细胞/高密度脂蛋白比值(MHR)及胱抑素C、TLR2、TLR4、NF-κB水平比较差异有统计学意义(P<0.05)。多因素logistic回归分析结果显示,MHR、TLR2、TLR4、NF-κB是T2DM患者发生自主神经病变的危险因素(P<0.05)。Spearman相关分析结果显示,TLR2、TLR4、NF-κB水平与T2DM患者发生自主神经病变呈正相关(r=0.825、0.822、0.819,P<0.05)。结论TLR2、TLR4、NF-κB在T2DM患者中表达上调,TLR2、TLR4、NF-κB表达水平与T2DM患者自主神经病变有关。

姜黄素抑制NF-κB信号通路缓解氧化应激对成骨分化的损害发挥抗骨质疏松作用

目的 探讨姜黄素抑制氧化应激对成骨分化损害的机制及以剂量依赖的方式发挥抗骨质疏松的作用。方法 采用细胞氧化应激模型,加入不同浓度的姜黄素,测定骨形成指标,并检测参与的潜在信号通路。同时,用姜黄素处理小鼠去卵巢(ovariectomized, OVX)骨质疏松动物模型来证实其抗骨质疏松的作用。结果 体外实验发现,低浓度姜黄素(1~10μmol·L^(-1))促进成骨细胞增殖,提高骨形成碱性磷酸酶(alkaline phosphatase, ALP)活性,逆转氧化应激导致的成骨钙沉积下降,降低了核因子kappa-B配体的受体激动剂(RANKL)和白介素-6 (IL-6)的表达。体内实验结果显示,姜黄素(5 mg·kg^(-1))给药后部分逆转了OVX小鼠血液中丙二醛(malondialdehyde, MDA)和谷胱甘肽(glutathione, GSH)活性的比例、降低高骨代谢、增加骨密度(bone density, BMD)、改善了骨小梁的微结构,但高浓度姜黄素无氧化应激保护作用。结论 姜黄素可以减轻氧化应激的骨形成损害,NF-κB信号通路是主要参与通路,姜黄素可能是预防骨质疏松症的理想药物。

基于TLR4/NF-κB通路调补肺肾法干预细胞自噬对COPD肺血管重塑的影响和机制

目的基于Toll样受体4(TLR4)/核转录因子-κB(NF-κB)通路研究调补肺肾法干预细胞自噬对慢性阻塞性肺疾病(COPD)肺血管重塑的影响和机制。方法取SD大鼠采用香烟烟雾暴露结合反复细菌感染的方案建立COPD模型,随机分为3组,模型组、补肺益肾方(3.7 g/kg)组、补肺益肾方(3.7 g/kg)+脂多糖(LPS)(TLR4激活剂,15 mg/kg)组,每组12只,另取12只大鼠正常呼吸并气管滴注等剂量生理盐水作为对照组,经补肺益肾方、LPS对大鼠分组干预后,检测各组大鼠肺功能指标:潮气量(TV)、呼气峰流速(PEF)、第0.3秒用力呼气容积(FEV0.3)/用力肺活量(FVC)。以HE染色检测各组大鼠肺组织病理形态和肺血管重塑,比较其管壁厚度(WT)占血管直径(VD)百分比WT/VD(%)、管腔面积(LA)占血管总面积(TA)百分比LA/TA(%)。以免疫荧光染色检测各组大鼠肺组织内肺血管内皮标记物CD34表达。以酶标仪检测各组大鼠肺泡灌洗液(BALF)及血清促炎因子:肿瘤坏死因子-α(TNF-α)、白细胞介素(IL)-17水平。以免疫印迹法检测各组大鼠肺组织自噬及TLR4/NF-κB信号通路相关蛋白表达。结果与对照组相比,模型组大鼠肺组织呈现明显病理损伤及肺血管重塑症状,TV、PEF、FEV0.3/FVC、LA/TA、肺组织Beclin-1蛋白表达与LC3Ⅱ/LC3Ⅰ显著降低(P<0.05),WT/VD、CD34相对阳性表达、BALF及血清促炎因子TNF-α与IL-17水平、肺组织TLR4蛋白表达与p-NF-κB p65/NF-κB p65显著升高(P<0.05)。与模型组相比,补肺益肾方组大鼠肺组织损伤及肺血管重塑症状减轻,TV、PEF、FEV0.3/FVC、LA/TA、肺组织Beclin-1蛋白表达与LC3Ⅱ/LC3Ⅰ升高(P<0.05),WT/VD、CD34相对阳性表达、BALF及血清促炎因子TNF-α与IL-17水平、肺组织TLR4蛋白表达与p-NF-κB p65/NF-κB p65降低(P<0.05)。与补肺益肾方组相比,补肺益肾方+LPS组大鼠肺组织损伤及肺血管重塑症状加重,TV、PEF、FEV0.3/FVC、LA/TA、肺组织Beclin-1蛋白表达与LC3Ⅱ/LC3Ⅰ降低(P<0.05),WT/VD、CD34相对阳性表达、BALF及血清促炎因子TNF-α与IL-17水平、肺组织TLR4蛋白表达与p-NF-κB p65/NF-κB p65升高(P<0.05)。结论补肺益肾方可通过抑制TLR4/NF-κB信号而抑制COPD体内炎症,并增强自噬,进而减轻大鼠肺组织病理损伤和肺血管重塑,改善其肺功能。

血清转化生长因子β1、白细胞介素-6、Toll样受体-4、核转录因子κB联合评估非小细胞肺癌放射性肺炎病情严重程度的价值

目的探讨血清转化生长因子β1(TGF-β1)、白细胞介素-6(IL-6)、Toll样受体-4(TLR-4)和核转录因子κB(NF-κB)联合评估非小细胞肺癌(NSCLC)放射性肺炎(RP)病情严重程度的价值。方法选取104例NSCLC放疗后继发RP患者作为研究组,另选取52例NSCLC放疗后未继发RP患者作为对照组。比较2组患者放疗前后血清TGF-β1、IL-6、TLR-4、NF-κB水平。比较研究组不同程度RP患者放疗前后血清TGF-β1、IL-6、TLR-4、NF-κB水平,分析各血清指标单独及联合评估NSCLC放疗后RP病情程度的价值。结果放疗结束后,研究组患者血清TGF-β1、IL-6、TLR-4、NF-κB水平均高于对照组,差异有统计学意义(P<0.05);放疗结束后,随着RP病情程度的增加,研究组患者血清TGF-β1、IL-6、TLR-4、NF-κB水平呈升高趋势,差异有统计学意义(P<0.05)。受试者工作特征(ROC)曲线分析结果显示,放疗结束后血清TGF-β1、IL-6、TLR-4、NF-κB水平评估1级RP的曲线下面积(AUC)分别为0.787、0.718、0.783、0.801,评估≥2级RP的AUC分别为0.729、0.740、0.793、0.825;血清TGF-β1、IL-6、TLR-4、NF-κB阳性表达患者发生≥2级RP的风险分别是阴性表达患者的2.473、2.275、2.610、5.267倍(P<0.05);血清TGF-β1、IL-6、TLR-4、NF-κB联合评估≥2级RP的AUC为0.939,敏感度为76.00%,特异度为97.47%。结论NSCLC患者放疗结束后血清TGF-β1、IL-6、TLR-4、NF-κB水平均与RP病情严重程度呈正相关,四者联合评估≥2级RP的价值显著,可为临床控制RP病情提供参考依据。

温阳化痰贴对哮喘患儿调控因子TLR4/NF-κB影响研究

目的研究温阳化痰贴对哮喘患儿调控因子Toll样受体4(TLR4)/核转录因子-κB(NF-κB)的影响。方法选取2020年10月至2021年6月北京市昌平区中西医结合医院儿科门诊治疗的小儿哮喘缓解期患儿100例,随机分为对照组51例、治疗组49例,对照组给予西医常规治疗,治疗组西医治疗联合应用温阳化痰贴贴敷。结果治疗组的调控因子TLR4、NF-κB及肺功能FEF25、FEF50、FEF75较对照组明显改善,差异有统计学意义(P<0.05)。结论应用温阳化痰穴贴联合西药治疗小儿哮喘可以调节机体免疫调控因子,从而直接或间接调节细胞、体液免疫功能,提高机体抵抗力,使疾病快速恢复。

IKBKE沉默对食管鳞癌细胞生物学行为的影响

目的:探讨核因子(NF)κB激酶亚单位ε抑制剂(IKBKE)在食管鳞状细胞癌(ESCC)中的表达及其沉默对KYSE-30细胞生物学行为的影响。方法:收集自2020年6月至2023年6月开展ESCC根治术的30例患者的癌组织以及癌旁组织,并分为ESCC组(n=30)与对照组(n=30)。运用实时荧光定量聚合酶链反应(qRT-PCR)与蛋白质印迹法(WB)检测ESCC组及对照组中的IKBKE mRNA与蛋白水平,并分析ESCC组中的IKBKE mRNA以及蛋白水平与ESCC患者临床病理特征(性别、年龄与肿瘤的TNM分期、分化、浸润深度及是否转移)的关系。将培养的ESCC细胞系KYSE-30细胞随机分为空白对照组(无任何处理)、NC-IKBKE组(转染NC-siRNA)、si-IKBKE组(转染IKBKE-siRNA)。CCK-8法检测KYSE-30细胞增殖能力;流式细胞术检测KYSE-30细胞凋亡率;划痕法检测KYSE-30细胞迁移能力;Transwell法检测KYSE-30细胞侵袭能力;采用qRT-PCR及WB检测KYSE-30细胞中IKBKE mRNA及蛋白水平;采用WB检测KYSE-30细胞中NF-κB通路关键蛋白NF-κB p65、磷酸化核因子κB抑制蛋白α(p-IκBα)表达水平。结果:ESCC组IKBKE的mRNA及蛋白表达水平均显著高于对照组(t=9.769、12.960,均P=0.000);IKBKE在ESCC组的mRNA及蛋白水平与ESCC的肿瘤的分化程度、TNM分期及转移有关(t=2.070~2.829,均P<0.05),而其与性别、年龄、浸润深度无关(均P>0.05);与NC-IKBKE组相比,si-IKBKE组KYSE-30细胞中的IKBKE的mRNA以及蛋白水平均显著降低(F=77.244、78.436,均P=0.000);成功沉默IKBKE表达的KYSE-30细胞系后,与NC-IKBKE组相比,si-IKBKE组细胞的48、72 h细胞增殖能力及24、48 h细胞迁移率均显著下降(F=12.355~44.755,均P<0.05),与NC-IKBKE组比较,si-IKBKE组48 h细胞侵袭抑制率、细胞凋亡率均明显增加(F=155.436、46.360,均P=0.000);si-IKBKE组的NF-κB p65、p-IκBα的蛋白表达水平均显著低于NC-IKBKE组(F=139.206、55.551,均P=0.000)。结论:ESCC组织中的IKBKE表达水平显著高于癌旁组织,且与肿瘤的分化程度、TNM分期及转移有关,沉默IKBKE可显著抑制ESCC细胞的增殖、迁移以及侵袭能力,促进细胞凋亡,其机制可能与IKBKE调控NF-κB通路有关。