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.

TRANSFORMING GROWTH FACTOR-β1 AND SMAD4 SIGNALING PATHWAY DOWN-REGULATES RENAL EXTRACELLULAR MATRIX DEGRADATION IN DIABETIC RATS

Objective To investigate the role of transforming growth factor-131 （TGF-β1）/Smad4 pathway in development of renal fibrosis in streptozotocin （STZ）-induced diabetic nephropathy （DN） rats and explore its possible mechanism. Methods Male Wistar rats weighing 180-220 g were divided into 5 groups： group A （ normal control）, group B [ diabetes mellitus （DM） 2 weeks ], group C （ DM 4 weeks）, group D （ DM 8 weeks）, and group E （ DM 16 weeks）. Except for the normal control group, other groups were induced DM by single injection of STZ （55 mg/kg） respectively. Blood glucose level, serum creatinine, and 24-hour urine protein were examined. Expressions of TGF-β1 and Smad4 protein and mRNA in kidney were detected using immunohistochemical technique, Western blot, and real-time PCR. mRNA expressions of stromelysin-1 （ MMP-3 ）, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 （ TIMP-1 ）, and collagen Ⅲ in kidney were also detected by real-time PCR. Results The levels of blood glucose, serum creatinine, and 24-hour urine protein in rats of group B, C, D, and E were higher than those of the control group. With the progression of renal fibrosis, the expressions of TGF-β1 and Smad4 protein and mRNA in kidney of diabetic rats elevated. In addition, the renal MMP-3 mRNA expression diminished in diabetic rats, while TIMP-1 and collagen Ⅲ mRNA increased. Conclusions In STZ-induced diabetic rats, the TGF-β1/Smad4 appears to play an important role in renal fibrosis of DN. The increased expression of TGF-β1 and Smad4 might result in the transcriptional regulation of downstream target genes of TGF-β1/Smad4 pathway, which contributes to the progression of renal fibrosis in diabetic rats.

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.

Dab2 attenuates brain injury in APP/PS1 mice via targeting transforming growth factor-beta/SMAD signaling

Transforming growth factor-beta （TGF-β） type II receptor （TβRⅡ） levels are extremely low in the brain tissue of patients with Alzheimer＇s disease. This receptor inhibits TGF-β1/SMAD signaling and thereby aggravates amyolid-beta deposition and neuronal injury. Dab2, a specific adapter protein, protects T RII from degradation and ensures the effective conduction of TGF-β 1/SMAD signaling. In this study, we used an adenoviral vector to overexpress the Dab2 gene in the mouse hippocampus and investigated the regulatory effect of Dab2 protein on TGF-β1/SMAD signaling in a mouse model of Alzheimer＇s disease, and the potential neuroprotective effect. The results showed that the TβRⅡ level was lower.in APP/PS1 mouse hippocampus than in normal mouse hippocampus. After Dab2 expression, hippocampal TβRⅡ and p-SMAD2/3 levels were signifi- cantly increased, while amyloid-beta deposition, microglia activation, tumor necrosis factor- and interleulin-6 levels and neuronal loss were significantly attenuated in APP/PS1 mouse brain tissue. These results suggest that Dab2 can exhibit neuroprotective effects in Alzheimer＇s disease by regulating TGF-β1/SMAD signaling.

Hsa_circRNA_102610 upregulation in Crohn’s disease promotes transforming growth factor-β1-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition via sponging of hsa-miR-130a-3p

BACKGROUND The incidence of inflammatory bowel disease,a chronic intestinal inflammatory disorder that includes Crohn’s disease(CD)and ulcerative colitis,is rising.Circular RNAs are considered valuable diagnostic biomarkers for CD.Current evidence supports the views that epithelial-mesenchymal transition(EMT)plays an important role in CD pathogenesis,and that hsa-miR-130a-3p can inhibit transforming growth factor-β1(TGF-β1)-induced EMT.Our previous study revealed that hsa_circRNA_102610 was upregulated in CD patients.Moreover,we predicted an interaction between hsa_circRNA_102610 and hsa-miR-130a-3p.Thus,we hypothesized that hsa_circRNA_102610 may play roles in the proliferation and EMT of intestinal epithelial cells by sponging hsa-miR-130a-3p to participate in the pathogenesis of CD.AIM To explore the mechanism of hsa_circRNA_102610 in the pathogenesis of CD.METHODS The relative expression levels of hsa_circRNA_102610 and hsa-miR-130a-3p in patients were detected by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction.The proliferation of human intestinal epithelial cells(HIECs)and normal-derived colon mucosa cell line 460(NCM460)cells was detected by cell counting kit-8,5-ethynyl-2’-deoxyuridine staining and cell cycle assays following overexpression or downregulation of hsa_circRNA_102610.Cell proliferation assays were performed as described above in a rescue experiment with hsa-miR-130a-3p mimics.The interaction of hsa_circRNA_102610 and hsa-miR-130a-3p was verified by fluorescence in situ hybridization and dual luciferase reporter assays.The relative expression levels of CyclinD1,mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 4(SMAD4),E-cadherin,N-cadherin and Vimentin were detected by western blotting following hsa_circRNA_102610 overexpression,TGF-β1-induced EMT or hsa-miR-130a-3p mimic transfection(in rescue experiments).RESULTS Upregulation of hsa_circRNA_102610 was determined to be positively correlated with elevated fecal calprotectin levels in CD(r=0.359,P=0.007)by Pearson correlation analysis.Hsa_circRNA_102610 promoted the proliferation of HIECs and NCM460 cells,while hsa-miR-130a-3p reversed the cell proliferationpromoting effects of hsa_circRNA_102610.Fluorescence in situ hybridization and dual luciferase reporter assays showed that hsa_circRNA_102610 directly bound hsa-miR-130a-3p in NCM460 and 293T cells.An inverse correlation between downregulation of hsa-miR-130a-3p and upregulation of hsa_circRNA_102610 in CD patients was observed(r=-0.290,P=0.024)by Pearson correlation analysis.Moreover,overexpression of hsa_circRNA_102610 promoted SMAD4 and CyclinD1 protein expression validated by western-blotting.Furthermore,overexpression of hsa_circRNA_102610 promoted TGF-β1 induced EMT in HIECs and NCM460 cells via targeting of hsa-miR-130a-3p,with increased expression of Vimentin and N-cadherin and decreased expression of E-cadherin.CONCLUSION Hsa_circRNA_102610 upregulation in CD patients could promote the proliferation and EMT of intestinal epithelial cells via sponging of hsa-miR-130a-3p.

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.

Prognostic significance and relationship of SMAD3 phosphoisoforms and VEGFR-1 in gastric cancer:A clinicopathological study

BACKGROUND The TGF-β/SMAD3 and VEGFR-1 signaling pathways play important roles in gastric cancer metastasis.SMAD3 phosphorylation is a crucial prognostic marker in gastric cancer.AIM To determine the prognostic value and relationship of SMAD3 phospho-isoforms and VEGFR-1 in gastric cancer.METHODS This was a single-center observational study which enrolled 98 gastric cancer patients and 82 adjacent normal gastric tissues from patients aged 32-84 years(median age 65)between July 2006 and April 2007.Patients were followed up until death or the study ended(median follow-up duration of 28.5 mo).The samples were used to generate tissue microarrays(TMAs)for immunohistochemical(IHC)staining.The expressions of TGF-β1,pSMAD3C(S423/425),pSMAD3L(S204),and VEGFR-1 in gastric cancer(GC)tumor tissue and normal tissue were measured by IHC staining using TMAs obtained from 98 GC patients.Prognosis and survival information of the patients was recorded by Outdo Biotech from May 2007 to July 2015.The relationship between TGF-β1,pSMAD3C(S423/425),pSMAD3L(S204),and VEGFR-1 protein expression levels was analyzed using Pearson's correlation coefficient.The relationship between protein expression levels and clinicopathological parameters was analyzed using the Chi-squared test.A survival curve was generated using the Kaplan-Meier survival analysis.RESULTS TGFβ-1 and VEGFR-1 expression was significantly upregulated in gastric cancer tissue compared to adjacent noncancerous tissue.The positive expression of phosphorylated isoforms of Smad3 varied depending on the phosphorylation site[pSMAD3C(S423/425):51.0%and pSMAD3L(S204):31.6%].High expression of pSMAD-3L(S204)was significantly correlated with larger tumors(P=0.038)and later N stages(P=0.035).Additionally,high expression of VEGFR-1 was closely correlated with tumor size(P=0.015)and pathological grading(P=0.013).High expression of both pSMAD3L(S204)and VEGFR-1 was associated with unfavorable outcomes in terms of overall survival(OS).Multivariate analysis indicated that high expression of pSMAD3L(S204)and VEGFR-1 were independent risk factors for prognosis in GC patients.VEGFR-1 protein expression was correlated with TGF-β1(r=0.220,P=0.029),pSMAD3C(S423/425)(r=0.302,P=0.002),and pSMAD3L(S204)(r=0.201,P=0.047),respectively.Simultaneous overexpression of pSMAD3L(S204)and VEGFR-1 was associated with poor OS in gastric cancer patients.CONCLUSION Co-upregulation of pSMAD3L(S204)and VEGFR-1 can serve as a predictive marker for poor gastric cancer prognosis,and pSMAD3L(204)may be involved in enhanced gastric cancer metastasis in a VEGFR-1-dependent manner.

参附汤联合茯苓四逆汤治疗心阳亏虚型慢性心力衰竭患者的疗效及对其转化生长因子β1、Smad同源物3表达的影响

目的探讨参附汤联合茯苓四逆汤治疗心阳亏虚型慢性心力衰竭患者的疗效及对其转化生长因子β1(transforming growth factor-β,TGF-β1)、Smad同源物3(Smad homolog 3,Smad3)表达的影响。方法选取2020年1月—2023年1月期间北京市怀柔区中医医院收治的90例心阳亏虚型慢性心力衰竭患者,按随机数字表法分为对照组和研究组,每组各45例。对照组予常规西医治疗,研究组在对照组的基础上加用参附汤合茯苓四逆汤治疗。4周为1个疗程,两组患者均治疗4个疗程。观察比较两组患者治疗前后心功能[左室舒张末期内径(Left ventricular end diastolic diameter,LVEDD)、左室收缩末期内径(Left ventricular end systolic diameter,LVESD)、左室射血分数(Left ventricular ejection fraction,LVEEF)、每搏输血量(Blood transfusion volume per stroke,SV)]、心衰因子[心型脂肪酸结合蛋白(Heart-type Fatty Acid Binding Protein,H-FABP)、脑钠肽(Natriuretic peptide,BNP)]、心肌纤维化指标[Ⅰ型前胶原氨基端前肽(Type I procollagen amino terminal peptide,PICP)、Ⅲ型前胶原氨基端末肽(TypeⅢprocollagen amino terminal peptide,PⅢNP)、心肌肌钙蛋白I(cardiac troponin IcTnI)]、TGF-β1、Smad3表达量变化,评价活动耐力、心衰评分、明尼苏达评分、中医证候积分,并统计临床疗效及主要心血管不良事件(MACE)发生情况。结果治疗后两组患者心功能LVEDD、LVESD指标均较治疗前降低,LVEF、SV指标较治疗前升高,差异有统计学意义(P<0.05);且研究组心功能LVEDD、LVESD指标明显低于对照组,LVEF、SV指标明显高于对照组,差异有统计学意义(P<0.05)。治疗后两组患者心衰因子H-FABP、cTnI、BNP水平均较治疗前降低,差异有统计学意义(P<0.05);且研究组心衰因子H-FABP、cTnI、BNP水平均明显低于对照组,差异有统计学意义(P<0.05)。治疗后两组患者心肌纤维化PICP、PⅢNP水平均较治疗前降低,差异有统计学意义(P<0.05);且研究组心肌纤维化PICP、PⅢNP水平明显低于对照组,差异有统计学意义(P<0.05)。治疗后两组患者TGF-β1、Smad3表达量均较治疗前降低,差异有统计学意义(P<0.05);且研究组TGF-β1、Smad3表达量均明显低于对照组,差异有统计学意义(P<0.05)。治疗后两组患者活动耐力较治疗前升高,心衰、明尼苏达评分较治疗前降低,差异有统计学意义(P<0.05);且研究组活动耐力评分明显高于对照组,心衰、明尼苏达评分均明显低于对照组,差异有统计学意义(P<0.05)。治疗后两组患者中医证候积分较治疗前降低,差异有统计学意义(P<0.05);且研究组中医证候积分明显低于对照组,差异有统计学意义(P<0.05)。治疗后研究组临床总有效率95.56%(43/45)明显高于对照组80.00%(36/45),差异有统计学意义(P<0.05)。治疗期间,研究组MACE发生率4.44%(2/45)明显低于对照组17.78%(8/45),差异有统计学意义(P<0.05)。结论参附汤合茯苓四逆汤可显著改善心阳亏虚型慢性心力衰竭患者临床症状及体征,降低TGF-β1、Smad3表达,抑制心肌纤维化,促进心脏功能恢复,效果理想。

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.

TGF-β1/SMAD SIGNALING PATHWAY MEDIATES p53-DEPENDENT APOPTOSIS IN HEPATOMA CELL LINES

Objective To determine whether transforming growth factor betal (TGF-β1)/Smad signaling pathway mediates p53-dependent apoptosis in hepatoma cell lines.Methods Three human hepatic carcinoma cell lines, HepG2, Huh-7, and Hep3B, were used in this study.TGF-β1-induced apoptosis in hepatic carcinoma cell lines was analyzed using TUNEL assay.For identifying the mechanism of apoptosis induced by TGF-β1, cell lines were transfected with a TGF-β1-inducible luciferase reportor plasmid containing Smad4 binding elements.After transfection, cells were treated with TGF-β1, then assayed for luciferase activity.Results The apoptosis rate of HepG2 cell lines (48.51%± 8.21%) was significantly higher than control ( 12.72%±2.18%, P<0.05).But TGF-β1 was not able to induce apoptosis of Huh-7 and Hep3B cell lines.The relative luciferase activity of TGF-β1-treated HepG2 cell lines (4.38) was significantly higher than control (1.00, P< 0.05).But the relative luciferase activity of TGF-β1-treated Huh-7 and Hep3B cell lines less increased compared with control.Conclusions HepG2 cells seem to be highly susceptible to TGF-β1-induced apoptosis compared with Hep3B and Huh-7 cell lines.Smad4 is a central mediator of TGF-β1 signaling transdution pathway.TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway might mediate p53-dependent apoptosis in hepatoma cell lines.

Influence of Exogenous TGFβ_1 on the Expression of Smad2 and Smad3 in Rat Bone Marrow-derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells

The expression of Smad2 and Smad3 and the influence of exogenous transforming growth factorβ 1 (TGFβ 1) on them in rat bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) cultured in vitro were investigated. The effects of different concentrations of TGFβ 1 on cell proliferation and ALP activity were detected by MTT and PNPP in MSCs respectively. The expression of Smad2 and Smad3 and the influence of exogenous TGFβ 1 on them were also examined by immunocytochemistry and Western blot assays. The exogenous TGFβ 1 induced a dose-dependent decrease in cell proliferation and a dose-dependent increase in ALP activity, which plateaued at 5 ng/ml. Smad2 and Smad3 proteins were detected only in the cytoplasm in the absence of TGFβ 1 and TGFβ 1 could stimulate the translocation of them from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. The total amount of Smad2 protein remained unchanged before and after TGFβ 1 treatment (P>0.05). The expression levels of Smad3 remained unchanged after 3 h and 6 h treatment (P>0.05), but decreased markedly after 24 h treatment (P<0.05). It was concluded that TGFβ 1 is a latent osteoinductive factor involved in osteoblastic differentiation. Both Samd2 and Smad3 mediate TGFβ 1 signaling as downstream mediators in MSCs. The biological output of TGFβ 1 triggering the osteoblastic differentiation could be entirely determined by Smad3 in MSCs.

二黄汤对哮喘模型大鼠肺组织中TGF-β_1及体内IL-33的影响

目的观察二黄汤对哮喘模型大鼠肺组织中转化生长因子β1(TGF-β1)及体内白介素-33(IL-33)的影响。方法 50只SD大鼠随机均分为正常组、哮喘组、布地奈德组、高剂量二黄汤组(含生药量68 g/kg)和低剂量二黄汤组(含生药量17 g/kg)。以卵清白蛋白致敏与激发建立哮喘大鼠模型,随后分别用布地奈德、二黄汤干预治疗。肺组织切片HE染色观察病理变化并检测气道管壁厚度(Wat)及气道平滑肌厚度(Wam),用免疫组化法检测肺组织TGF-β1蛋白的表达,酶联免疫法检测血清及支气管肺泡灌洗液(BALF)中IL-33的含量。结果所有药物干预组较哮喘组炎症细胞浸润明显减轻;布地奈德组、高剂量二黄汤组和低剂量二黄汤组Wat均较哮喘组下降(μm2/μm:54.99±8.82、52.28±7.61、58.53±7.63 vs 79.50±5.64,P<0.05);布地奈德组、高剂量二黄汤组和低剂量二黄汤组Wam均较哮喘组下降(μm2/μm:22.74±2.73、20.63±1.72、21.20±4.50 vs 30.16±1.68,P<0.05);与正常组比较,哮喘组BALF、血清中IL-33的浓度增高,经药物干预后,布地奈德组、高剂量二黄汤组和低剂量二黄汤组低于哮喘组(P<0.05),但3干预组间差异无统计学意义;哮喘组TGF-β1高于正常组(IOD:12.60±2.25 vs 1.67±0.17),布地奈德组(5.51±2.48)、高剂量二黄汤组(5.22±2.52)和低剂量二黄汤组(6.92±2.18)均低于哮喘组(P<0.05),3干预组间差异无统计学意义。哮喘大鼠的气道壁厚度和平滑肌厚度与TGF-β1、IL-33呈正相关。结论二黄汤可在一定程度上干预哮喘大鼠气道重塑,其作用可能是通过调节TGF-β1和IL-33实现的。

微RNA-196a-1-3p靶向Ras响应元件结合蛋白调控胆管癌细胞增殖的机制研究

目的探讨转化生长因子β(TGF-β)调控人胆管癌细胞系RBE细胞增殖的关键微RNA(miRNA)及其潜在的机制。方法该研究起止时间为2020年1月至2022年1月。磷酸盐缓冲液(PBS)处理为对照组,TGF-β处理为TGF-β组,TGF-β抗体处理为抗体组。检测三组RBE细胞的增殖水平。miRNA高通量测序检测三组RBE细胞的miRNA调控变化,并进行miRNA模拟物过表达筛选鉴定受TGF-β调控的影响RBE细胞增殖水平的关键miRNA。miRNA数据库(miRDB)在线分析miRNA的潜在底物,并通过小干扰RNA(siRNA)敲低筛选鉴定影响RBE细胞增殖水平的关键底物。结果相比于对照组,TGF-β组RBE细胞的增殖水平上升(1.62±0.07比2.35±0.09,P<0.05),抗体组RBE细胞的增殖水平下降(1.62±0.07比1.11±0.08,P<0.05)。过表达微RNA-196a-1-3p(miR-196a-1-3p)时,RBE细胞的增殖水平下降(P<0.05)。敲低Ras响应元件结合蛋白(RREB1)时,RBE细胞的增殖水平下降(P<0.05)。过表达miR-196a-1-3p后,RBE细胞中RREB1的信使RNA(mRNA)和蛋白水平下降(P<0.05)。敲低miR-196a-1-3p后,RBE细胞中RREB1与SMAD家族蛋白3(SMAD3)的相互作用增加。敲低SMAD3后,RBE细胞的增殖水平下降(P<0.05)。与仅敲低SMAD3相比,敲低SMAD3的同时过表达RREB1的RBE细胞的增殖水平无显著变化,并且同时敲低SMAD3和miR-196a-1-3p的RBE细胞的增殖水平无显著变化。结论TGF-β能够通过miR-196a-1-3p/RREB1/SMAD3轴促进RBE细胞增殖;miR-196a-1-3p和RREB1可作为潜在的治疗胆管癌的靶标,为针对该靶标的新药研发奠定了基础。

Naringenin prevents experimental liver fibrosis by blocking TGFβ-Smad3 and JNK-Smad3 pathways

To study the molecular mechanisms involved in the hepatoprotective effects of naringenin (NAR) on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis. METHODSThirty-two male Wistar rats (120-150 g) were randomly divided into four groups: (1) a control group (n = 8) that received 0.7% carboxy methyl-cellulose (NAR vehicle) 1 mL/daily p.o.; (2) a CCl4 group (n = 8) that received 400 mg of CCl4/kg body weight i.p. 3 times a week for 8 wk; (3) a CCl4 + NAR (n = 8) group that received 400 mg of CCl4/kg body weight i.p. 3 times a week for 8 wk and 100 mg of NAR/kg body weight daily for 8 wk p.o.; and (4) an NAR group (n = 8) that received 100 mg of NAR/kg body weight daily for 8 wk p.o. After the experimental period, animals were sacrificed under ketamine and xylazine anesthesia. Liver damage markers such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (AP), γ-glutamyl transpeptidase (γ-GTP), reduced glutathione (GSH), glycogen content, lipid peroxidation (LPO) and collagen content were measured. The enzymatic activity of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) was assessed. Liver histopathology was performed utilizing Masson’s trichrome and hematoxylin-eosin stains. Zymography assays for MMP-9 and MMP-2 were carried out. Hepatic TGF-β, α-SMA, CTGF, Col-I, MMP-13, NF-κB, IL-1, IL-10, Smad7, Smad3, pSmad3 and pJNK proteins were detected via western blot. RESULTSNAR administration prevented increases in ALT, AP, γ-GTP, and GPx enzymatic activity; depletion of GSH and glycogen; and increases in LPO and collagen produced by chronic CCl4 intoxication (P < 0.05). Liver histopathology showed a decrease in collagen deposition when rats received NAR in addition to CCl4. Although zymography assays showed that CCl4 produced an increase in MMP-9 and MMP-2 gelatinase activity; interestingly, NAR administration was associated with normal MMP-9 and MMP-2 activity (P < 0.05). The anti-inflammatory, antinecrotic and antifibrotic effects of NAR may be attributed to its ability to prevent NF-κB activation and the subsequent production of IL-1 and IL-10 (P < 0.05). NAR completely prevented the increase in TGF-β, α-SMA, CTGF, Col-1, and MMP-13 proteins compared with the CCl4-treated group (P < 0.05). NAR prevented Smad3 phosphorylation in the linker region by JNK since this flavonoid blocked this kinase (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONNAR prevents CCl4 induced liver inflammation, necrosis and fibrosis, due to its antioxidant capacity as a free radical inhibitor and by inhibiting the NF-κB, TGF-β-Smad3 and JNK-Smad3 pathways.

Danggui Buxue Tang ameliorates bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in rats through inhibiting transforming growth factor-β1/Smad3/plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 signaling pathway

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of Danggui Buxue Tang(DBT), a decoction from Traditional Chinese Medicine, on bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in rats, and to propose the possible underlying mechanism.METHODS: Forty male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into sham group, model group,prednisone group and DBT group. Pulmonary fibrosis rat model was established by intratracheal injection with bleomycin. Body weight and lung index were monitored. Histopathologic examination and collagen deposition were determined using Hematoxylin and eosin(HE) and Masson's trichrome staining. Immunohistochemistry staining was applied to observe the expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin(α-SMA). m RNA expression of α-SMA,collagen Ⅰ and collagen Ⅲ were measured by realtime fluorescence quantitative PCR(RT-q PCR). Inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor alpha(TNF-α), interleukin-6(IL-6) and IL-1β in serum were detected by Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Alkali hydrolysis method was conducted to investigate the content of hydroxyproline(HYP). Transforming growth factor-β1(TGF-β1),Smad3 and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1(PAI-1) protein level were examined by Western blot assay.RESULTS: DBT significantly reduced the severity of bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis and inflammation as indicated by minimizing the lost of weight, and by lowering the levels of lung index, inflammation score, Ashcroft score, collagen volume fraction(%), HYP, α-SMA, collagen Ⅰ, collagen Ⅲ,TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, TGF-β1, Smad3 and PAI-1, consistent with the effect of prednisone.CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that DBT is able to ameliorate the pulmonary fibrosis, the possible mechanism may involve inhibition of pulmonary inflammation and collagen deposition, possibly via suppressing TGF-β1/Smad3/PAI-1 signaling pathway.

Role of TGF-β1/Smads pathway in carotid artery remodeling in renovascular hypertensive rats and prevention by Enalapril and Amlodipine

Objective To investigate the role of transforming growth factor-β1 （TGF-β1）, Smad2/3 and Smad7 expressions in carotid artery remodeling in renovascular hypertensive rats, and also the therapeutic effect of Enalapril and Amlodipine. Methods The renovascular hypertensive rat （RHR） models with ＂two-kidney and one-clip＂ were established, including model group （n = 6）, sham-operated group （n = 6）, Enalapril group （10 mg/kg per day, n = 6）, Amlodipine group （5 mg/kg per day, n = 6） and combination group （Amlodipine 2.5 mg/kg per day ＋ Enalapril 5mg/kg per day, n = 6）. The medication were continuous administrated for six weeks. Carotid artery morphological and structural changes in the media were observed by HE staining, Masson staining and immuno histochemical staining. Media thickness （MT）, MT and lumen diameter ratio （MT/LD）, and the expression levels of media a-smooth muscle actin （α-actin）, proliferating cell nuclear antigen （PCNA）, TGF-β1, phosphorylated Smad2/3 （p-Smad2/3） and Smad7 in carotid arteries were measured. Results The media of carotid arteries in RHR model group was significantly thickened, the volume of smooth muscle cell was increased, and the array was in disorder; MT, MT/LD, the proliferation index of smooth muscle cell and collagen fiber area percentage of carotid arteries in the model group were significantly higher than those in the sham-operated group （P 〈 0.01）. Compared to sham-operated group, the model group had significantly higher expressions of TGF-β1 and p-Smad2/3 （P 〈 0.05） and lower Smad7 expression. Both Enalapril and Amlodipine improved smooth muscle hypertrophy and collagen deposition, reduced RHR carotid MT, MT/LD, proliferation index of smooth muscle cell, collagen fiber area percentage and the expressions of TGF-β1 and p-Smad2/3 （P 〈 0.05）, increased Smad7 expression （P 〈 0.05）. Moreover, the combination treatment of Enalapril and Amlodipine had significantly better effects than single Amlodipine group （P 〈 0.05）, but not single Enalapril group. Conclusions TGF-β1/Smads pathway may participate in the mechanism of carotid artery remodeling in RHR; the role of Amlodipine and Enalapril in inversing carotid artery remodeling may be related to the change of TGF-β1/Smads pathway, the combination treatment of Amlodipine and Enalapril had better effects than single administration of Amlodipine.

Colonic expression of Runx3 protein and TGF-β_1 and their correlation in patients with irritable bowel syndrome

Objective:To investigate the role of Runx3 protein and TGF-β_1 in the pathogenesis of irritable bowel syndrome(IBS),as well as the correlation of these two proteins.Methods:Colonic tissue was collected from patients with IBS and normal persons.The colonic expression of Runx3 protein and TGF-β_1 was detected with immunohislochemistry method.Semi-quantitative analysis was used to evaluate the staining degree of these two proteins.Results:Compared with their counterparts,patients with IBS did not show any changes in the colonic expression of Runx3 protein and TGF-β_1(P>0.05).Interestingly,there was a significant correlation between Runx3 protein and TGF-β_1 in patients with IBS(P<0.05).Conclusions:The role of Runx3 protein and TGF-β_1 in the pathogenesis of IBS remains to be further studied.

基于TGF-β_(1)/Smad3信号通路探讨参附注射液对缺血性脑卒中大鼠的神经保护作用

目的 基于转化生长因子β_(1)(TGF-β_(1))/Smad家族成员3(Smad3)信号通路探讨参附注射液对缺血性脑卒中(IS)大鼠的神经保护作用机制。方法 将48只无特定病原体(SPF)级SD雄性大鼠随机分为Sham组、Vehicle组、参附注射液组、TGF-β_(1)组。采用改良Longa线栓法构建Vehicle组、参附注射液组、TGF-β_(1)组大鼠永久性中动脉栓塞模型,分别腹腔注射相应剂量的生理盐水、参附注射液和TGF-β_(1),Sham组只插入线栓不结扎其余操作同Vehicle组。建模14 d后进行神经功能缺损评分;采用激光散斑成像观察大鼠大脑皮层血流变化;伊文思蓝染色检测血脑屏障通透性;2,3,5-三苯基氯化四氮唑(TTC)染色检测脑梗死面积;尼氏染色观察脑组织神经元损伤程度;原位末端凋亡检测(TUNEL)法检测细胞凋亡;检测白细胞介素-1β(IL-1β)、白细胞介素-6(IL-6)、肿瘤坏死因子-α(TNF-α)、超氧化物歧化酶(SOD)、丙二醛(MDA)水平;蛋白免疫印迹(Western Blot)法检测TGF-β_(1)、p-Smad3、B细胞淋巴瘤-2基因(Bcl-2)、Bcl-2相关X蛋白(Bax)表达。结果 与Sham组比较,Vehicle组大鼠大脑皮层血流灌注量、SOD水平、Bcl-2蛋白水平减少,神经功能损伤评分、脑梗死面积、血脑屏障通透性、细胞凋亡、神经元损伤、炎性因子IL-1β、IL-6、TNF-α含量、MDA水平及TGF-β_(1)、p-Smad3水平、Bax蛋白水平增加(P<0.05);与Vehicle组比较,参附注射液组和TGF-β_(1)组大鼠大脑皮层血流灌注量、SOD水平、TGF-β_(1)、p-Smad3水平、Bcl-2蛋白水平增加,神经功能损伤评分、脑梗死面积、血脑屏障通透性、细胞凋亡、神经元损伤、炎性因子IL-1β、IL-6、TNF-α表达、MDA水平、Bax蛋白水平降低(P<0.05)。结论 参附注射液可改善脑缺血大鼠血流灌注,缩小脑梗死体积,抑制机体氧化应激、炎症反应及细胞凋亡,可能通过激活TGF-β_(1)/Smad3信号通路发挥对IS大鼠神经细胞的保护作用。

Regulation Mechanism of TFP on TGF-β1/STAT3 Signaling Pathway in Immune-mediated Liver Injury in Mice

[Objectives]To study the effect of total flavonoids extracted from Polygonum perfoliatum L.(TFP)on immune-mediated liver injury induced by bacillus Calmette-Guerin plus lipopolysaccharide(BCG+LPS)in mice,and to explore its action mechanism.[Methods]60 Kunming mice were divided into normal group,model group,control group(bifendate)and TFP low,medium and high dose groups according to random number table method,with 10 mice in each group.On the first day of modeling,mice were injected with 0.2 mL of BCG solution(12.5 mg/mL)through the tail vein,and on the eleventh day,0.2 mL of LPS(37.5μg/mL)were injected into the tail vein to prepare a mouse model of immune-mediated liver injury;from the first day of modeling,the normal group and the model group were administered intragastrically with the corresponding volume of distilled water,and the bifendate group and the TFP high,medium,and low dose groups were administered intragastrically with the corresponding doses once a day for 11 d.After the last time administration,fasting but giving water for 16 h,took blood from eyes,then collected the liver tissue.The levels of alanine transaminase(ALT)and aspartate transaminase(AST)in serum were detected by biochemical method;transforming growth factor-β1(TGF-β1),intercellular adhesion molecule-1(ICAM-1),interleukin-6(IL-6)and interleukin-1β(IL-1β)expression levels in liver tissue were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA);phosphorylated protein tyrosine kinase JAK-2(p-JAK2),phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3(p-STAT3)protein expression levels were detected by Western Blot method;the degree of liver tissue lesions was detected by HE staining.[Results]Compared with the model group,the levels of ALT and AST in the serum of mice in each dose group of TFP(high dose 600 mg/kg,medium dose 400 mg/kg,and low dose 200 mg/kg)were reduced,and the activities of T-SOD and GSH-Px were increased;the content or expression ofβ1,ICAM-1,IL-6,IL-1βdecreased,and the expression of p-JAK2 and p-STAT3 protein decreased;pathological sections showed that the degree of inflammatory necrosis and the degree of lesions in the liver tissues of each dose group of TFP were reduced by varying degrees.[Conclusions]TFP has a protective effect on BCG+LPS-induced immune-mediated liver injury in mice.The mechanism may be related to regulating the phosphorylation level of JAK2 and inhibiting the inflammatory reaction,thereby regulating the TGF-β1/STAT3 signaling pathway and improving the immune-mediated liver injury.

Smad3磷酸化促进溃疡性结肠炎的黏膜修复

目的研究小鼠溃疡性结肠炎黏膜损伤与修复过程及转化生长因子-β(TGF-β)信号转导过程中关键分子Smad3对黏膜修复的作用。方法给予小鼠3%葡聚糖硫酸钠(DSS)饮用5天诱导急性溃疡性结肠炎,再停用DSS改为正常饮水修复。实验小鼠分为6组,分别为正常对照组,3%DSS 5天损伤期组,饮水修复1、2、3、4周组,其中正常对照组小鼠仅饮用蒸馏水。观察小鼠结肠炎修复情况及行结肠组织学检查,检测结肠黏膜凋亡与增殖相关指标及TGF-β信号通路中Smad3及相关蛋白的表达,观察其在损伤与修复中的变化。结果小鼠疾病活动指数在饮用DSS后上升,修复2周后恢复正常。结肠组织学评分于饮用DSS 5天损伤期时明显升高,修复2周后下降。结肠黏膜凋亡指数于损伤期升至最高,至修复3周后降至正常水平。增殖指数于损伤期降至最低,至修复3周时升至峰值。结肠黏膜TGF-β表达量在各实验组均升高,而p-Smad3表达量于损伤期降低,修复1周后开始上升。结论 TGF-β转导过程中关键分子Smad3的磷酸化促进小鼠结肠炎黏膜的修复。