Fluorescence Microplate Reader Research Articles

Real-time fluorescence growth curves for viable bacteria quantification in foods

Here, for the first time, we used a membrane permeable fluorescent nucleic acid stain (SYBR Green) to trace the in-vivo DNA replication during bacterial binary fission. Such stain did not influence the growth of bacteria. Nor did the bacteria degrade the stain, enabling the fluorescent microplate reader to monitor sensitively the growth of the bacteria. Hence, a real-time fluorescence growth curve (RTFGC) method was put forward for the sensitive quantification of viable bacteria in foods. Using E. coli O157:H7 as a bacteria model, the RTFGC method could quantify bacteria within the range of 10 to 1 × 106 cfu/mL, with a linear correlation coefficient R2 of 0.997. It was found that melting curve was unique for a particular bacterial strain, which could be used for contamination identifications. Good practicability of the RTFGC in quantifying E. coli O157:H7 from tap water, juices, and milks was demonstrated.

Phytochemistry, antioxidant and anti-diabetic activities of Sterculia villosa in-vitro

ObjectiveAs ongoing research continues, many antidiabetic agents still have many side effects which is the reason why more and more people resort to traditional medicines such as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). There are many Therapeutic Species of Sterculia spp. that are commonly used in TCM practices. Here, we have studied one of such TCM herbal plants, namely Sterculia villosa Roxb. (Chinese: 绒毛苹婆), for its antidiabetic potential. In this way, the study intends to assess its effectiveness and examine its suitability as a raw natural medicine for diabetes management in traditional medicine. MethodIn-vitro anti-diabetic property was evaluated by α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzyme inhibition and glucose uptake assays. Metabolomic profiling by GC-MS was conducted to determine the probable phyto-constituents in S. villosa. These phyto-compounds were further subjected to in-silico molecular docking studies, identifying stigmasterol as the most potent anti-diabetic phyto-compound. Glucose uptake efficacy was estimated by a fluorescence microplate reader employing glucose analog 2-NBDG. Molecular dynamic studies (MDS) were carried out with GROMACS to comprehend the protein-ligand binding stability. ResultsStigmasterol showed enhanced enzyme inhibition for both α-amylase (IC50 23.84±1.37 μM) and α-glucosidase (IC50 39.56±1.5 μM). Line-weaver Burk plot revealed competitive and mixed modes of inhibition for α-amylase and α-glucosidase, respectively. The GC-MS analysis identified 23 vital phyto-compounds present in the methanolic extract of the S. villosa leaves. Upon screening against crucial anti-diabetic proteins by in-silico molecular docking, stigmasterol followed by lupeol, Stigmasta-3,5-diene, and γ-sitosterol were found to be the most effective lead compounds. Stigmasterol also showed potent hypoglycaemic efficacy, as evidenced by augmentation of 2-NBDG glucose uptake in 3T3-L1 cells. The docking and simulation studies against four crucial anti-diabetic targets, α-amylase, α-glucosidase, GLUT 4, and IRS-1, predicted that stigmasterol exhibits a multi-pronged anti-diabetic activity mediated by α-amylase inhibition and activation of IRS1 pathway, simultaneously. The MDS studies highlighted that stigmasterol showed stable interactions with these four proteins, as evidenced by the RMSD, RMSF and hydrogen bond analysis. ConclusionThe results of this study are intriguing, as they identify stigmasterol, sourced from the medicinal plant S. villosa, as a potential breakthrough in the field of diabetic remediation. This discovery paves the way for further research and development of stigmasterol as a more effective and safer treatment for diabetes.

Effect of Agkistrodon acutus venom (AAVC-I) on apoptosis through modulation of the Keap1/Nrf2 pathway in HSC-3 oral squamous cell carcinoma cells.

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most common malignant tumor in the oral and maxillofacial regions. Patients with OSCC exhibit a poor response to conventional chemoradiotherapies, which are associated with severe side effects. Therefore, it is essential to identify an effective therapeutic method to treat patients with OSCC. An anti-tumor compound, Agkistrodon acutus venom component I (AAVC-I), purified from Agkistrodon acutus venom, has demonstrated anticancer activity both in vitro and in vivo. However, the mechanism of AAVC-I's anticancer activity in cancer cells has yet to be established. This study aimed to investigate the mechanism of AAVC-I-induced apoptosis in HSC-3 OSCC cells and explore its regulatory effect on oxidative stress. Survival rates of human OSCC cell HSC-3 were detected by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8). The reactive oxygen species (ROS) level was analyzed by flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy. The mitochondrial membrane potential was analyzed by cytometry and fluorescent microplate reader. Apoptosis of HSC-3 cells was analyzed using flow cytometry. The oxidative stress level was evaluated using glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and malondialdehyde (MDA) kits. In addition, the target proteins were analyzed by western blot. AAVC-I reduced HSC-3 cells' survival rates in a dose-dependent manner with a 50% inhibiting concentration (IC50) of 8.86 µg/mL. It induced apoptosis of HSC-3 cells and the expression of cleaved caspase-3, cleaved caspase-9, and Cyt-c increased significantly, whereas the expression level of Bcl-2 decreased in AAVC-I-treated HSC-3 cells. Thus, AAVC-I caused apoptosis of HSC-3 via the activation of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway. In addition, AAVC-I reduced the mitochondrial membrane potential in HSC-3, enhanced intracellular ROS, and increased intracellular oxidative stress levels in comparison to that of untreated control cells. Furthermore, AAVC-I increased the expression of Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1/nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Keap1/Nrf2) levels. These findings demonstrate the inhibitory effects and associated mechanisms of AAVC-I on the HSC-3 OSCC cell line. This insight could be valuable for investigating AAVC-I as a potential therapeutic option for patients with OSCC.

Dihydroisotanshinone I regulates ferroptosis via PI3K/AKT pathway to enhance cisplatin sensitivity in lung adenocarcinoma.

Dihydroisotanshinone I (DT) is a kind of diterpenoid compound extracted from the dried roots of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge, and exhibits multiple biological activities including anti-tumor activity. Cisplatin is one of the first-line drugs for the treatment of lung adenocarcinoma (LAUD), but the drug resistance and toxicity limit its efficacy. DT is known to induce apoptosis and ferroptosis, but it is unclear whether DT can inhibit the cisplatin-resistant LAUD cells and reverse the drug resistance in LAUD. Therefore, our study intends to establish the cisplatin-resistant human LAUD cells (A549/DDP), and figure out the influence and related mechanisms of DT reversing cisplatin resistance in A549/DDP cells, so as to provide a theoretical basis for the DT as a new natural candidate for the treatment of LAUD. The establishment of A549/DDP was the continuous stimulation by exposing A549 to gradient concentrations of Cisplatin. The cell viability of A549 and A549/DDP was detected by CCK-8 kit, and the IC50 value was calculated. The morphological changes of A549 and A549/DDP cells were observed by an inverted microscope. The contents of malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) in A549/DDP cells after drug treatment were detected by related kits. The levels of Fe2+, cytosolic reactive oxygen species (ROS), and lipid reactive oxygen species (lipid ROS) were detected by a fluorescence microplate reader or fluorescence cell imager according to the related fluorescent probe kit instructions. Western blot was used to detect the expressions of PI3K, phospho-PI3K, AKT, phospho-AKT, MDM2, p53, GPX4, and SLC7A11 in A549/DDP after different drug treatments. Our study demonstrated that the inhibitory effect of DT on A549 and A549/DDP cells was time-dependent and concentration-dependent, and DT and DDP had a synergistic effect on inhibiting the proliferation of A549/DDP cells. Furthermore, DT mainly induced ferroptosis in A549/DDP cells and synergized with cisplatin to promote ferroptosis in A549/DDP cells. The result of KEGG pathway analysis, molecular docking and western blot showed that DT could enhance the cisplatin sensitivity of A549/DDP by inhibiting PI3K/MDM2/P53 signaling pathway. Consequently, we concluded that DT promotes ferroptosis in cisplatin-resistant LAUD A549/DDP cells. Additionally, DT reverses cisplatin resistance by promoting ferroptosis via PI3K/MDM2/P53 pathway in A549/DDP cells.

The reliability, sensitivity and specificity of fluorescent oxidation products for measuring global oxidative stress in vivo

Introduction To examine the reliability, sensitivity, and specificity of fluorescent oxidation products (FlOPs; markers of global oxidative damage) for measuring global oxidative stress. Methods To improve FlOP measurement reliability, we mixed plasma samples with the extractant at eight ratios and measured FlOPs with a fluorescent microplate reader (excitation/emission wavelengths 320/420 nm denoted FlOP_320; 360/420 nm [FlOP_360]; and 400/475 nm [FlOP_400]). In a human study, we examined the reliability of an improved FlOP measurement. In an animal study, we examined the sensitivity and specificity of FlOPs for measuring D-galactose induced global oxidative stress. Results At a 1:20 (plasma/extractant) mixture ratio, the overall inter-/intra-assay coefficients of variation (CV) for FlOP measurements among healthy and coronary heart disease participants were <3.6%/<2.7% and <4.4%/<2.0%, respectively. On day 30 of the animal experiment, the Pearson correlations (r) of FlOP_320 and FlOP_360 with D-galactose dose were 0.816 and 0.801, respectively, which were 3-12 times higher than those of malondialdehyde (0.183), 8-hydroxyguanosine (0.157), pentosidine (0.254), and nitrotyrosine (0.068) for measuring D-galactose-induced oxidative damage. FlOP_360 (r = 0.225, P = 0.045), but not FlOP_320 and FlOP_400, were significantly correlated with c-reactive protein, a marker of inflammation. Conclusions FlOP_320 are reliable, sensitive and specific markers for measuring global oxidative stress. Key policy highlights Fluorescent oxidation products (FlOPs) are a reliable marker of oxidative stress FlOPs at 320/420 nm are more sensitive than traditional markers FlOP at 320/420 nm did not reflect inflammation as quantified by c-reactive protein

A green and highly sensitive microwell spectrofluorimetric method with high throughput for the determination of pemigatinib based on dual fluorescence enhancement by photoinduced electron transfer blocking and micellization: Application to the analysis of tablets, content uniformity testing, and human plasma.

Pemigatinib (PGT) is a recently FDA-approved small molecule kinase inhibitor used for the treatment of relapsed or refractory myeloid/lymphoid neoplasms in adults. This study introduces the development of a first microwell spectrofluorimetric method (MW-SFM) for quantifying PGT in FDA-approved tablets and plasma samples. The method utilized the enhancement of PGT's weak native fluorescence by blocking photoinduced electron transfer (PET) and micellization with sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS). The MW-SFM was performed in 96-microwell plates, and fluorescence signals were measured using a fluorescence microplate reader with excitation at 290 nm and emission at 350 nm. The method exhibited a linear range of 2-250 ng mL-1, and a limit of quantitation was 6.5ng mL-1. The accuracy and precision of the method were confirmed with recovery rates ranging from 96.5% to 102.8% and relative standard deviations of 1.52% to 3.51%. The MW-SFM successfully analyzed Pemazyre® tablets, assessed content uniformity, and analyzed PGT-spiked human plasma samples. The greenness of the MW-SFM was verified using three different metric tools. In conclusion, the proposed MW-SFM is a valuable tool in supporting quality assessment of dosage forms, conducting pharmacokinetic studies, and monitoring therapeutic outcomes.

An Investigation of Size Distribution and Calcium Signaling in Human Platelets.

Background Platelets are thin disc-shaped blood cells that play a major role in hemostasis, maintenance of vascular integrity, and blood coagulation. Large platelets are more reactive and seen in patients with cardiovascular disease. This study aims to analyze the changes in platelet size of ex vivo activated platelets which phenotypically simulates that of a patient at risk of cardiovascular disease and elucidate the calcium signaling pathway responsible for this change. Methodology Platelets were isolated from adult human blood by differential centrifugation. Calcium was mobilized into platelets by treatment with calcium ionophore A23187 in the presence of Ca2+. Platelet size distribution was analyzed using Coulter Counter Multisizer 4. The following signaling parameters were studied: intracellular Ca2+ measurement (using Fura-2/AM by fluorescence spectrophotometry), Ca2+-dependent thiol protease calpain assay (using fluorogenic substrate t-butoxycarbonyl-Leu-metchloromethylcoumarin in fluorescence microplate reader), platelet-derived microparticles (using FACS Calibur flow cytometry), and cytoskeletal protein talin expression (by western immunoblotting). Results When adult platelets were treated with A23187 and Ca2+, two subcellular populations (<2 µm and between 2-4 µm) were noted. The mean size of the second cell population was significantly higher than that of resting platelets (2.94 ± 0.13 µm vs. 2.82 ± 0.15 µm, t = 4.605, p = 0.00). A23187 treatment led to elevated intracellular Ca2+, release of platelet-derived microparticles, increase in calpain activity, and cytoskeletal talin degradation. These events were inhibited by calpeptin (a specific calpain inhibitor). Conclusions Elevated calcium caused talin degradation by calpain activity. Breakdown of this cytoskeletal protein leads to relative swelling of cells reflected by the increase in platelet size.

Abstract PO3-25-12: Tigecycline-Induced Metabolic Reprogramming and Cytokine Modulation Suppress the Characteristics of Breast Cancer Cells

Abstract Objective: Patients with advanced breast cancer are prone to recurrence and metastasis. Hence, there is still a need to find new potential drugs or adjuvants to improve prognosis. The Warburg effect, which is highly dependent on glycolysis, has been found to be present in the energy metabolism of tumors, including breast cancer. The effect also promotes the production of cytokines, to adapt the inflammatory microenvironment of tumor. However, drugs targeting Warburg effect and inflammatory environment are rarely reported in the treatment of breast cancer. Tigecycline (Tige) is a commonly used glycylcycline antibiotic. Previous research has indicated it impede mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) in various solid tumors. Based on the team's previous research, our study aimed to investigate whether Tige could inhibit breast cancer development by interfering with the Warburg effect and the inflammatory environment. Methods: MB231, MB468 and MCF7, T47D, which represent triple-negative and estrogen receptor positive breast cancers, were treated with Tige at different concentrations for different periods of time. CCK8, colony formation and sphere formation assays were used to evaluate the effects on proliferation and tumor stemness in vitro, respectively. The effects on migration and invasion were evaluated by wound healing assay and Transwell. RNA sequencing was used to explore the genes altered and analyze the pathways involved. After labeling with probes, the changes of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were detected by fluorescence microscope, microplate reader, and flow cytometry. Cell cycle and apoptosis were detected by flow cytometry. Liquid cytokine chip was used to analyze the secretion of cytokines. Electron microscopy was performed to observe the changes in mitochondrial morphology. RT-PCR was used to detect the expression of rate-limiting enzymes in glycolysis pathway. Glucose consumption, lactate and pyruvate production were measured using glucose, lactate and pyruvate detection kits, respectively. Western blot was used to detect the changes of respiratory chain protein complex and other related pathway proteins in OXPHOS. Results: Four breast cancer cells showed a significant decrease in cell proliferation, invasion and migratory ability after Tige treatment. Sphere-forming assays also showed that Tige had an effect on the stemness of breast cancer. RNA-sequencing showed that glycolysis, cell cycle, and immune-related pathways were inhibited after Tige treatment, and ROS production analysis revealed a decrease in ROS production. Flow cytometry also revealed that the cell cycle was arrested in S phase without significant apoptosis. Cytokine liquid chip analysis showed that the secretion of many cytokines, mainly interleukin (such as IL-1B), was inhibited after Tige intervention. RT-PCR results showed that the expression of several rate-limiting enzymes of the glycolytic pathway decreased. Glucose, lactate and pyruvate assay results showed that Tige reduced glucose uptake and lactate, pyruvate production. Electron microscopy results revealed that mitochondria in Tige treated cells showed significant contractures. WB results also showed a decrease in the expression of OXPHOS-related proteins. However, due to the heterogeneity of the four breast cancer cells, the degree of change in these capacities was not entirely consistent. Conclusions: Tige not only inhibits mitochondrial OXPHOS, but also inhibits the glycolysis pathway, which results in the inhibition of glucose uptake and the production of pyruvate and lactate. The secretion of early pro-inflammatory cytokines also affected. Therefore, this study suggests that Tige may change the glucose metabolism and energy metabolism, and also change the inflammatory environment of breast tumors, which provides new evidence for the anti-tumor effect of Tige in breast cancer. Citation Format: Haochen Yu, Lingfeng Tang, Shengchun Liu. Tigecycline-Induced Metabolic Reprogramming and Cytokine Modulation Suppress the Characteristics of Breast Cancer Cells [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO3-25-12.

Colorimetric and fluorometric determination of uric acid by a suspension-based assay using enzyme-immobilized micro-sized particles.

Daily monitoring of serum uric acid levels is very important to provide appropriate treatment according to the constitution and lifestyle of individual hyperuricemic patients. We have developed a suspension-based assay to measure uric acid by adding a sample solution to the suspension containing micro-sized particles immobilized on uricase and horseradish peroxidase (HRP). In the proposed method, the mediator reaction of uricase, HRP, and uric acid produces resorufin from Amplex red. This resorufin is adsorbed onto enzyme-immobilized micro-sized particles simultaneously with its production, resulting in the red color of the micro-sized particles. The concentration of resorufin on the small surface area of the microscopic particles achieves a colorimetric analysis of uric acid with superior visibility. In addition, ethanol-induced desorption of resorufin allowed quantitative measurement of uric acid using a 96-well fluorescent microplate reader. The limit of detection (3σ) and RSD (n = 3) were estimated to be 2.2 × 10-2μg/mL and ≤ 12.1%, respectively. This approach could also be applied to a portable fluorometer.

In Vivo Fluorescent Labeling of Foam Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles as Circulating Biomarkers for In Vitro Detection of Atherosclerosis.

Real-time monitoring of the development of atherosclerosis (AS) is key to the management of cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, existing laboratory approaches lack sensitivity and specificity, mostly due to the dearth of reliable AS biomarkers. Herein, we developed an in vivo fluorescent labeling strategy that allows specific staining of the foam cell-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) in atherosclerotic plaques, which are released into the blood as circulating biomarkers for in vitro detection of AS. This strategy relies on a self-assembled nanoprobe that could recognize foam cells specifically, where the probe is degraded by the intracellular HClO to produce a trifluoromethyl-bearing boron-dipyrromethene fluorophore (termed B-CF3), a lipophilic dye that can be transferred to the exosomal membranes. These circulating B-CF3-stained EVs can be detected directly on a fluorescence spectrometer or microplate reader without resorting to any sophisticated analytical method. This liquid-biopsy format enables early detection and real-time differentiation of lesion vulnerability during AS progression, facilitating effective CVD management.

(133) Investigating Actinidin as a Potential Collagenase on Human Peyronie’s Disease Cells

Abstract Introduction Peyronie's Disease (PD) is characterized by a connective tissue disorder in the penile tunica albuginea and the formation of collagen-rich plaques, leading to penile curvature, painful erections, and erectile dysfunction. Intralesional Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum injections are no longer available in Canada, making treatment options for PD limited. Actinidin is a soluble enzyme that has the ability to hydrolyze various types of collagen and fibrinogen. We have previously reported the efficacy of actinidin on reducing collagen in in vitro human PD models. Objective To determine the dose-response efficacy and cytotoxicity of actinidin in reducing the intercellular bound collagen in human PD plaque models. Methods Fibroblast cells are isolated from human PD tissue (N ≥ 3) and 2D models are cultured. These cells were subjected to various treatment groups including media-only control and 5 concentrations of actinidin treatment ranging from 0.5 mg/ml to 30 mg/ml. The collagenase treatment was prepared from Hayward kiwi by isolating actinidin by filtration and pH adjustment. A dose-response curve was generated at different time points at various actinidin concentrations using an MTT assay. After 24 hours of treatment, collagen extraction was performed and quantified using a Soluble Collagen Quantification Assay Kit and a fluorescent microplate reader. The effects of the treatments on the extracellular matrix were further investigated by staining the cells with DAPI for the nucleus and Phalloidin-conjugated FITC for actin filaments. A twelve-hour timelapse was conducted using a fluorescent confocal microscope to capture FITC and DAPI fluorescein images. The total fluorescent area of each well was measured, and actin signals were normalized by the DAPI signals. Results The dose-response curve revealed that the lethal concentration affecting 50% of the cells after a 48-hour period is approximately 15-20 mg/ml. Treatment of 1 mg/mL actinidin significantly reduced cellular collagen of human PD fibroblasts compared to the control group (P &amp;lt; 0.001). The normalized stained β-actin signal was measured as the ratio between intracellular actin staining and nuclei count in each microscopic field. The high concentration actinidin treatment (30 mg/mL) exhibited a significantly higher normalized actin signal compared to other treatment groups (P &amp;lt; 0.0001). These findings suggest that actinidin may possess mechanisms that affect the plasma membrane integrity. Conclusions Our continuation of preliminary results demonstrates the ability of actinidin to break down PD cells by compromising extracellular collagen and the cellular membrane. High doses of actinidin cause cell destruction and we suggest that treatment should not exceed 10 mg/ml. Further studies will investigate the molecular mechanism of actinin in hydrolyzing collagen and to evaluate the effects on an animal model. Given the absence of durable FDA-approved treatments for PD in Canada, this novel option holds future treatment potential. Disclosure Yes, this is sponsored by industry/sponsor: KiwiEnzyme.com Ltd. Clarification: No industry support in study design or execution.

Glycyrrhizin inhibits LPS-induced neutrophil-like release of NETs.

To investigate the regulatory effect of glycyrrhizin (GL) on the release of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) from neutrophils in sepsis. HL-60 cells were induced to differentiate into neutrophil-like dHL-60 cells to establish a neutrophil-like sepsis model. Expression levels of high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), citrullinated histone H3 (Cit-H3), and Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) were assessed by Western blotting. Free DNA, a component of NETs, was quantified using a fluorescence microplate reader. Cellular immunofluorescence analysis was used to detect the expression of the key NETs protein, Cit-H3. dHL-60 cells stimulated with 200 ng/ml LPS exhibited the highest expression of Cit-H3. The neutrophil-like sepsis model showed significantly increased levels of Cit-H3 and HMGB1. GL intervention significantly reduced the expression levels of HMGB1 and Cit-H3 and decreased the free DNA level. These findings suggest that GL decreases HMGB1 expression and NET release in the neutrophil-like sepsis model. TLR9 expression was significantly elevated in the sepsis model. Exogenous recombinant human HMGB1 protein further increased TLR9 expression, while GL inhibited this increase. GL may inhibit NET release in sepsis through the HMGB1/TLR9 pathway.

Analysis of Biodistribution and in vivo Toxicity of Varying Sized Polystyrene Micro and Nanoplastics in Mice.

Studies have shown that microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) could accumulate in the human body and pose a potential threat to human health. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the biodistribution and toxicity of MPs/NPs with different particle sizes comprehensively and thoroughly. The purpose of this study was to investigate the biodistribution and in vivo toxicity of polystyrene (PS) MPs/NPs with different sizes (50 nm, 100 nm, and 500 nm). The BALB/c mice were given 100 μL of PS50, PS100 and PS500 at the dosage of 1 mg/kg BW or 10 mg/kg BW, respectively, by gavage once a day. After 28 consecutive days of treatment, the biodistribution of differently sized PS MPs/NPs was determined through cryosection fluorescence microscopy and fluorescent microplate reader analysis, and the subsequent effects of differently sized PS MPs/NPs on histopathology, hematology and blood biochemistry were also evaluated. The results showed that the three different sizes of PS MPs/NPs were distributed in the organs of mice, mainly in the liver, spleen, and intestine. At the same time, the smaller the particle size, the more they accumulate in the body and more easily penetrate the tissue. During the whole observation period, no abnormal behavior and weight change were observed. The results of H&E staining showed that no severe histopathological abnormalities were observed in the main organs in the low-dose exposure group, while. Exposure of three sizes of PS MPs/NPs could cause some changes in hematological parameters or biochemical parameters related to heart, liver, and kidney function; meanwhile, there were size- and dose-dependencies. The biological distribution and toxicity of plastic particles in mice were more obvious with the decrease of particle size and the increase of concentration of plastic particles. Compared with MPs, NPs were easier to enter the tissues and produce changes in liver, kidney, and heart functions. Therefore, more attention should be paid to the toxicity of NPs.

Effect of Remifentanil on the Osteogenic Activity of Biodegradable Polyhydroxybutyrate Bone Cement in Orthopedic Surgery Model

The objective of this research was to investigate the impacts of Remifentanil on osteogenic activity of biodegradable polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) bone cement (BPC) in an orthopedic surgery model (OSM). PHB was prepared and characterized. Remifentanil with various concentrations were determined: 0.5, 1.5, 10, 100, and 200 μmol groups, with untreated cells serving as the control (Ctrl) group. Osteoblasts were obtained from bone tissue, and cell proliferation (CP) inhibition was assessed using the MTT assay. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-I) activity were detected using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Expressions of bone-related genes (Runx2, osterix, Bglap, and IBSP) were quantified using fluorescence quantification, and the reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were measured using a fluorescence microplate reader. The results revealed that different molecular weights (MWs) increased initially and then decreased with increasing radiation time, while diverse temperatures at appropriate reactions yielded higher MWs. Microwave radiation synthesis produced the highest MW of 21.2 × 104 g/mol after a 35-minute reaction. The IGF-I activity in the cell supernatant differed greatly among different groups, with the 100 and 200 μmol groups exhibiting obvious differences with P &lt; 0.05 to the Ctrl group. Marked differences were observed among the 100 and 200 μmol groups and the 0.5, 1.5, and 10 μmol groups, showing P &lt; 0.05. Runx2, osterix, Bglap, and IBSP in the 10, 100, and 200 μmol groups were differed obviously to those in the Ctrl group (P &lt; 0.05). The 10, 100, and 200 μmol groups exhibited remarkable differences based on the Ctrl group (P &lt; 0.05). Remifentanil may negatively impact the osteogenic activity of BPC by inhibiting the activity of bone cells and interfering with the synthesis of extracellular matrix. In conclusion, Remifentanil negatively impacted the osteogenic activity of BPC in the orthopedic surgery model (OSM). Remifentanil may interfere with the bone healing process and further weaken its osteogenic capability.

A convenient fluorimetry-based degranulation assay using RBL-2H3 cells.

Type I hypersensitivity is triggered by mast cell degranulation, a stimulus-induced exocytosis of preformed secretory granules (SGs) containing various inflammatory mediators. The degree of degranulation is generally expressed as a percentage of secretory granule markers (such as β-hexosaminidase and histamine) released into the external solution, and considerable time and labor are required for the quantification of markers in both the supernatants and cell lysates. In this study, we developed a simple fluorimetry-based degranulation assay using rat basophilic leukemia (RBL-2H3) mast cells. During degranulation, the styryl dye FM1-43 in the external solution fluorescently labeled the newly exocytosed SGs, whose increase in intensity was successively measured using a fluorescence microplate reader. In addition to the rate of β-hexosaminidase secretion, the cellular FM1-43 intensity successfully represented the degree and kinetics of degranulation under various conditions, suggesting that this method facilitates multi-sample and/or multi-time-point analyses required for screening substances regulating mast cell degranulation.

Development of green, high throughput, and sensitive universal microwell spectrofluorimetric method for one-step determination of sartans in their dosage forms and plasma

This study describes, for the first time, the development of a novel one-step universal and green microwell spectrofluorimetric method with high sensitivity and throughput for the determination of sartans. The method was developed using 4 sartans, as representative examples. These saratns were losartan potassium, irbesartan, candesartan cilexetil, and valsartan. The method comprised the measurement of enhanced native fluorescence of sartans in acidic solutions by using a fluorescence microplate reader at 260 and 410 nm for excitation and emission, respectively. The variables affecting the fluorescence intensity were optimized. The method was linear in a range of 20–1000 ng/mL. The limits of detection ranged between 7.3 and 13.4 ng/mL, and those of quantitation ranged between 22.5 and 40.6 ng/mL. The proposed method showed high levels of precision and accuracy. The method was successfully applied to the estimation of sartans in their dosage form, in-vitro drug release testing, and analysis of plasma samples. The proposed method is the first spectrofluorimetric method that can analyze all sartans on a single analysis system without alterations in the measuring wavelengths. The greenness of the method was assessed using three distinct metric tools, which conclusively demonstrated its adherence to green analytical principles. Moreover, the method has high throughput capacity as it is able to concurrently process large number of micro-volume samples. In conclusion, the proposed method is valuable for the rapid and routine determination of sartans for the purposes of quality control and bioequivalence studies.

Evaluation for endotoxin in intraocular materials used during phacoemulsification surgery using a recombinant factor C assay.

Cataract surgery remains the sole method to resolve blindness secondary to cataract formation. One complication includes fibrin web formation post-operatively. This study aimed to investigate the presence of endotoxin within materials used during cataract surgery as a possible cause of fibrin web phenomenon. Preservative-free epinephrine, heparin, viscoelastic devices, and intraocular lenses were collected for evaluation. Various manufacturers and manufacturing lot numbers were used when available. Viscosity of viscoelastics was reduced by incubating samples with human recombinant hyaluronidase. Intraocular product (IOL) packaging fluid was collected and stored for testing. The IOLs were then washed with a sterile balanced salt solution, incubated at 37°C for 48 h, and then fluid was collected for testing to mimic intraocular placement. Samples were tested using a commercially available rFC kit. Fluorescence was measured at time zero and after 1 h using a fluorescence microplate reader. The change in fluorescence was corrected for blank fluorescence and plotted to a standard curve. Endotoxin levels were below the limit of detection (0.05 EU/mL) in all samples. Incubation of IOLs at intraocular temperature did not increase extraction of endotoxin. Endotoxin was not identified in any tested sample, including those used in cases of fibrin web formation post-phacoemulsification. As fibrin webs are often observed episodically, it is possible that endotoxin levels may vary between batches, or that endotoxin is not related to fibrin formation.

Development and Comparative Evaluation of Two Different Label-Free and Sensitive Fluorescence Platforms for Analysis of Olaparib: A Recently FDA-Approved Drug for the Treatment of Ovarian and Breast Cancer.

Olaparib (OLA) is a PARP inhibitor drug which has been recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of ovarian and breast cancer. A convenient analytical tool for the quantitation of OLA in its dosage form and plasma samples was urgently needed. This study describes, for the first time, the development of two different label-free and sensitive fluorescence-based platforms for the pharmaceutical and bioanalysis of OLA. These platforms were microwell-assisted with a fluorescence microplate reader (MW-FLR) and high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection (HPLC-FD). Both MW-FLR and HPLC-FD employed the native fluorescence of OLA as an analytical signal. The MW-FLR involved measuring the fluorescence signals in 96-well white-opaque plates. The HPLC-FD involved chromatographic separation of OLA and duvelisib (DUV), as an internal standard on a Nucleosil-CN HPLC column (250 mm length × 4.6 mm i.d., 5 µm particle diameter) with a mobile phase composed of acetonitrile: water (25:75, v/v) pumped at a flow rate of 1.7 mL/min. Elution of OLA and DUV was detected using a fluorescence detector. The optimal conditions of both MW-FLR and HPLC-FD were established, and they were validated according to the guidelines of the International Council for Harmonization for the validation of analytical procedures. The linear ranges of MW-FLR and HPLC-FD were 25-1000 and 5-200 ng/mL, respectively, with limits of detection of 15 and 1.7 ng/mL, respectively. The accuracy and precision of both platforms were confirmed as the recovery values were ≥98.2% and the relative standard deviations (RSD) were ≤2.89%. Both methodologies were satisfactorily applied to the quantitation of OLA in its commercial dosage form (Lynparza® tablets) and plasma samples with high accuracy and precision. The greenness of both MW-FLR and HPLC-FD was assessed using two different multiple parameter-based metric tools, and the results proved their greenness and adherence to the requirements of green analytical approaches. Both platforms have simple procedures and acceptable levels of analytical throughput. In conclusion, the proposed MW-FLR and HPLC-FD are valuable tools for routine use in quality control and clinical laboratories for the quantitation of OLA for the purposes of pharmaceutical quality control, pharmacokinetic studies, and bioequivalence testing.

Split-Cas9-based targeted gene editing and nanobody-mediated proteolysis-targeting chimeras optogenetically coordinated regulation of Survivin to control the fate of cancer cells.

Precise regulation of partial critical proteins in cancer cells, such as anti-apoptotic proteins, is one of the crucial strategies for treating cancer and discovering related molecular mechanisms. Still, it is also challenging in actual research and practice. The widely used CRISPR/Cas9-based gene editing technology and proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) have played an essential role in regulating gene expression and protein function in cells. However, the accuracy and controllability of their targeting remain necessary. Construction of UMUC-3-EGFP stable transgenic cell lines using the Sleeping Beauty system, Flow cytometry, quantitative real-time PCR, western blot, fluorescence microplate reader and fluorescence inverted microscope analysis of EGFP intensity. Characterization of Survivin inhibition was done by using Annexin V-FITC/PI apoptosis, calcein/PI/DAPI cell viability/cytotoxicity assay, cloning formation assay and scratch assay. The cell-derived xenograft (CDX) model was constructed to assess the in vivo effects of reducing Survivin expression. Herein, we established a synergistic control platform that coordinated photoactivatable split-Cas9 targeted gene editing and light-induced protein degradation, on which the Survivin gene in the nucleus was controllably edited by blue light irradiation (named paCas9-Survivin) and simultaneously the Survivin protein in the cytoplasm was degraded precisely by a nanobody-mediated target (named paProtacL-Survivin). Meanwhile, in vitro experiments demonstrated that reducing Survivin expression could effectively promote apoptosis and decrease the proliferation and migration of bladder cancerous cells. Furthermore, the CDX model was constructed using UMUC-3 cell lines, results from animal studies indicated that both the paCas9-Survivin system and paProtacL-Survivin significantly inhibited tumour growth, with higher inhibition rates when combined. In short, the coordinated regulatory strategies and combinable technology platforms offer clear advantages in controllability and targeting, as well as an excellent reference value and universal applicability in controlling the fate of cancer cells through multi-level regulation of key intracellular factors.

Global biomarkers of oxidative stress and fractures: a matched case-control study.

Evidence for a relationship between oxidative stress and osteoporotic fractures in humans is limited. Fluorescent oxidation products (FlOPs, excitation/emission wavelengths 320/420nm denoted FlOP_320; 360/420nm [FlOP_360]; and 400/475nm [FlOP_400]) are global biomarkers of oxidative stress, and reflect oxidative damage to proteins, phospholipids, and nucleic acids. We investigated the association between FlOPs and a recent osteoporotic fracture. We conducted a case-control study in a Chinese population aged 50 years or older. A recent osteoporotic fracture in the cases was confirmed by x-ray. Cases were matched with community-based non-fracture controls (1:2 ratio) for age (± 4 years) and sex. In addition, we conducted a sensitivity unmatched case-control study which included all fracture cases and all eligible non-fracture controls prior to matching. Plasma FlOPs were measured with a fluorescent microplate reader. We used unconditional logistic regression to analyze the association between FlOPs (per 1-SD increase in logarithmic scale) and fracture; odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were reported. Forty-four cases and 88 matched controls (mean age: 68.2 years) were included. After covariate adjustment (i.e., body mass index, physical activity, and smoking), higher FlOP_360 (OR = 1.85; 95% CI = 1.03 - 3.34) and FlOP_400 (OR = 13.29; 95% CI = 3.48 - 50.69) levels, but not FlOP_320 (OR = 0.56; 95% CI = 0.27 - 1.15), were associated with increased fracture risk. Subgroup analyses by fracture site and unmatched case-control study found comparable associations of FlOP_360 and FlOP_400 with hip and non-hip fractures. Higher FlOP_360 and FlOP_400 levels were associated with increased risk of fracture, and this association was comparable for hip and non-hip fractures. Prospective studies are warranted to confirm this finding.