Gelatinolytic Activity Research Articles

Dentin Cross-linking Effect of Carbodiimide After 5 Years

Carbodiimide (EDC)–based dentin primers preserve hybrid layer (HL) integrity. However, aging >1 y has not been investigated. The present study examined whether the cross-linking effect of EDC was reflected in dentin bond strength, endogenous enzymatic activity, and the chemical profile of the HL after 5-y aging in artificial saliva. Noncarious human third molars (N = 42) were cut to expose middle/deep coronal dentin and treated as follows: group 1, dentin etched with 35% H3PO4, pretreated with a 0.3M aqueous EDC primer for 1 min and restored with XP Bond (Dentsply Sirona); group 2, as in group 1 but without EDC pretreatment; group 3, Clearfil SE Bond (Kuraray-Noritake) primer applied to dentin surface, followed by EDC pretreatment as in group 1 and application of bond; group 4, as in group 3 without EDC pretreatment. After composite buildup, the specimens were cut into sticks or slabs, depending on the experiment. All tests were performed at baseline (T0) and after 5 y of aging (T5) in artificial saliva at 37 °C. Microtensile bond strength (µTBS) was tested at a crosshead speed of 1 mm/min until failure. Endogenous enzymatic activity was investigated with in situ zymography. The chemical profile of HL was determined via Raman spectroscopy. Three-way analysis of variance and post hoc Tukey test were used to analyze µTBS and in situ zymography data (α = 0.05). EDC pretreatment and aging significantly influenced µTBS and in situ zymography results (P < 0.05). Higher bond strength and lower gelatinolytic activity were identified in the EDC-treated groups at T5 (P < 0.05), especially in the etch-and-rinse groups. Raman spectra revealed less defined amide III peaks in control specimens at T5. The EDC cross-linking effect persisted in the HL for 5 y in terms of bond strength, collagen structure preservation, and dentinal enzyme silencing.

Influence of bisphosphonates on oral implantology: Sodium alendronate and zoledronic acid enhance the synthesis and activity of matrix metalloproteinases by gingival fibroblasts seeded on titanium

ObjectiveThis study aimed to assess the influence of the bisphosphonates zoledronic acid and sodium alendronate on MMP-2 and MMP-9 synthesis and activity by gingival fibroblasts seeded onto titanium substrate. DesignTitanium discs were placed in 24-well cell culture plates and gingival fibroblasts were seeded (1 × 105 cells/discs) on them using Dulbecco's Modified Eagle's Medium (DMEM) + 10 % fetal bovine serum (FBS) for 24 h. After this period, a fresh serum-free DMEM containing zoledronic acid or sodium alendronate at 0.5 μM, 1 μM or 5 μM was applied on the cells for an additional of 24 h. Serum-free DMEM and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) were used as negative and positive controls, respectively. MMP-2 and MMP-9 synthesis and activity were determined by ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) and conventional/in situ zymography. Quantitative data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA and Tukey’s tests (α = 0.05). The in situ zymography data were qualitatively described. ResultsDespite both bisphosphonates increased the MMPs synthesis, this effect was significant higher in zoledronic acid groups. MMPs activity resembled by gelatinolytic activity was also enhanced by sodium alendronate and zoledronic acid in a similar pattern. ConclusionsZoledronic acid and sodium alendronate increased in a dose-dependent manner MMP-2 and MMP-9 synthesis by gingival fibroblasts seeded on titanium. MMP-2 activity was up-regulated by zoledronic acid treatment.

Cyclooxygenase Inhibition Alters Proliferative, Migratory, and Invasive Properties of Human Glioblastoma Cells In Vitro.

Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is known to increase glioblastoma (GBM) cell proliferation and migration while cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibition decreases proliferation and migration. The present study investigated the effects of COX inhibitors and PGE2 receptor antagonists on GBM cell biology. Cells were grown with inhibitors and dose response, viable cell counting, flow cytometry, cell migration, gene expression, Western blotting, and gelatin zymography studies were performed. The stimulatory effects of PGE2 and the inhibitory effects of ibuprofen (IBP) were confirmed in GBM cells. The EP2 and EP4 receptors were identified as important mediators of the actions of PGE2 in GBM cells. The concomitant inhibition of EP2 and EP4 caused a significant decrease in cell migration which was not reverted by exogenous PGE2. In T98G cells exogenous PGE2 increased latent MMP2 gelatinolytic activity. The inhibition of COX1 or COX2 caused significant alterations in MMP2 expression and gelatinolytic activity in GBM cells. These findings provide further evidence for the importance of PGE2 signalling through the EP2 and the EP4 receptor in the control of GBM cell biology. They also support the hypothesis that a relationship exists between COX1 and MMP2 in GBM cells which merits further investigation as a novel therapeutic target for drug development.

Involvement of matrix metalloproteinases and their inhibitors in Staphylococcus aureus chronically infected bovine mammary glands during active involution

The aim of this study was to characterize the protein expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and ‐− 9 and their inhibitors (TIMP-1 and -2) in mammary tissue of dairy cows with naturally occurring chronic S. aureus intramammary infections (IMI) during active involution. Moreover, the gelatinolytic activity of MMP-2 and -9 in mammary secretions was evaluated. Cows in late lactation that were either uninfected or with chronic naturally acquired S. aureus IMI were included in this study. Protein expression of MMP-2 and -9 in mammary tissues was significantly higher in S. aureus-infected than uninfected quarters at day 14 and 21 of involution. Protein expression of TIMP-1 and -2 was significantly higher in S. aureus-infected than uninfected quarters at day 7, 14 and 21 of involution. The MMP-2/TIMP-1, MMP-2/TIMP-2, MMP-9/TIMP-1 and MMP-9/TIMP-2 ratios were significantly higher in S. aureus-infected compared with uninfected quarters at day 14 of involution. The MMP-2 activity was significantly higher in mammary secretions from S. aureus-infected compared with uninfected quarters at day 1, 2, 7 and 14 of involution. The MMP-9 activity was significantly higher in mammary secretions from infected quarters compared with uninfected quarters at day 7, 14 and 21 of involution. The increased expression of MMP-2 and -9 in mammary tissue as well as the high levels of activity observed in mammary secretion from infected quarters compared with uninfected quarters during active involution, strongly suggests that these gelatinases could contribute to degradation of mammary tissue components during chronic S. aureus IMI. The MMPs/TIMPs imbalance could lead to greater proteolysis and potentially more damage to mammary tissue in S. aureus-infected quarters.

Activation of matrix metalloproteinases and FoxO3a in HaCaT keratinocytes by radiofrequency electromagnetic field exposure

As the skin is the largest body organ and critically serves as a barrier, it is frequently exposed and could be physiologically affected by radiofrequency electromagnetic field (RF-EMF) exposure. In this study, we found that 1760 MHz RF-EMF (4.0 W/kg specific absorption rate for 2 h/day during 4 days) exposure could induce intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in HaCaT human keratinocytes using 2′,7′-dichlorofluorescin diacetate fluorescent probe analysis. However, cell growth and viability were unaffected by RF-EMF exposure. Since oxidative stress in the skin greatly influences the skin-aging process, we analyzed the skin senescence-related factors activated by ROS generation. Matrix metalloproteinases 1, 3, and 7 (MMP1, MMP3, and MMP7), the main skin wrinkle-related proteins, were significantly increased in HaCaT cells after RF-EMF exposure. Additionally, the gelatinolytic activities of secreted MMP2 and MMP9 were also increased by RF-EMF exposure. FoxO3a (Ser318/321) and ERK1/2 (Thr 202/Tyr 204) phosphorylation levels were significantly increased by RF-EMF exposure. However, Bcl2 and Bax expression levels were not significantly changed, indicating that the apoptotic pathway was not activated in keratinocytes following RF-EMF exposure. In summary, our findings show that exposure to 1760 MHz RF-EMF induces ROS generation, leading to MMP activation and FoxO3a and ERK1/2 phosphorylation. These data suggest that RF-EMF exposure induces cellular senescence of skin cells through ROS induction in HaCaT human keratinocytes.

Demethoxycurcumin Suppresses Proliferation, Migration, and Invasion of Human Brain Glioblastoma Multiforme GBM 8401 Cells via PI3K/Akt Pathway.

Demethoxycurcumin (DMC), one of the derivatives of curcumin, has been shown to induce apoptotic cell death in many human cancer cell lines. However, there is no available information on whether DMC inhibits metastatic activity in human glioblastoma cancer cells in vitro. DMC at 1.0-3.0 μM significantly decreased the proliferation of GBM 8401 cells; thus, we used 2.0 μM for further investigation regarding anti-metastatic activity in human glioblastoma GBM 8401 cells. The internalized amount of DMC has reached the highest level in GBM 8401 cells after 3 h treatment. Wound healing assay was used to determine cell mobility and results indicated that DMC suppressed cell movement of GBM 8401 cells. The transwell chamber assays were used for measuring cell migration and invasion and results indicated that DMC suppressed cell migration and invasion in GBM 8401 cells. Gelatin zymography assay was used to examine gelatinolytic activity (MMP-2) in conditioned media of GBM 8401 cells treated by DMC and results demonstrated that DMC significantly reduced MMP-2 activity. Western blotting showed that DMC reduced the levels of p-EGFR(Tyr1068), GRB2, Sos1, p-Raf, MEK, p-ERK1/2, PI3K, p-Akt/PKBα(Thr308), p-PDK1, NF-κB, TIMP-1, MMP-9, MMP-2, GSK3α/β, β-catenin, N-cadherin, and vimentin, but it elevated Ras and E-cadherin at 24 h treatment. DMC inhibited cancer cell migration and invasion through inhibition of PI3K/Akt and NF-κB signaling pathways in GBM 8401 cells. We suggest that DMC may be used as a novel anti-metastasis agent for the treatment of human glioblastoma cancer in the future.

SODIUM HYDROGEN SULFIDE IMPROVES RENOVASCULAR HYPERTENSION-INDUCED MALADAPTIVE CARDIAC REMODELING AND DIASTOLIC DYSFUNCTION BY REDUCING OXIDATIVE STRESS AND MMP ACTIVITY

Objective: To evaluate whether treatment with sodium hydrogen sulfide (NaHS) improves cardiac function and remodeling of two kidney-one clip (2K-1C) rats through inhibition of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity and oxidative stress. Design and method: 2K-1C hypertension was surgically induced in male Wistar rats (200 g; ethics commitee #118/2019) by an implantation of a silver clip (0.2 mm) in the left renal artery. Control rats (2K) was submitted to laparotomy. SBP and echocardiograph were registered. The NaHS (0.24 mg/Kg/day; i.p.) treatment or vehicle (0.6% DMSO in saline; i.p.) was initiated in the second week after the surgeries and lasted for 28 days. Hearts were collected and western blotting to MMP-2, Nox2 and Nox4 were performed in the left ventricles. MMPs localization and activity were also evaluated by in situ zymography. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) were investigated by dihydroethidium (10 μM). Data are presented as mean ± S.E.M. of different experimental n. Two-way ANOVA with Bonferroni correction was used (P &lt; 0.05). Results: SBP values of 2K-1C (165.47 ± 3.98mmHg, n = 12) were increased compared to 2K rats (133.28 ± 2.48mmHg, n = 10; P &lt; 0.0001) in the first week after the surgery. NaHS treatment decreased SBP of 2K-1C NaHS (155.60 ± 5.72mmHg, n = 5) compared to 2K-1C vehicle (202.13 ± 5.57mmHg, n = 7; P = 0.0003). Isovolumetric relaxation time analysis showed increases in values from 2K-1C rats (40.31 ± 2.97ms, n = 7) and NaHS treatment (28.04 ± 1.05ms, n = 5) normalized this parameter (P = 0.0018). 2K-1C rats (2.30 ± 0.11 mm, n = 7) presented increased interventricular septum thickness and NaHS treatment (1.99 ± 0.0 mm, n = 5) reduced this parameter (P = 0.028). MMP-2, Nox2 or Nox4 expression was not different in all groups. The gelatinolytic activity of MMPs was higher in 2K-1C vehicle rats (18,029.31 ± 1,225.42U, n = 3) and NaHS (12,092.70 ± 868.22U, n = 3) reduced it (P = 0.021). In 2K-1C rats (33,868.95 ± 2,103.74U, n = 3), ROS were higher compared to control and NaHS treatment (22,019.50 ± 914.08 U, n = 3) decreased this value (P = 0.0021). Conclusions: Our results showed beneficial effects of NaHS treatment in 2K-1C rats, thus leading to SBP decrease, cardiac function improvement and reduction in both MMPs activity and oxidative stress.

Investigation of PPARβ/δ within Human Dental Pulp Cells: A Preliminary In Vitro Study.

Controlling the inflammatory response to restore tissue homeostasis is a crucial step to maintain tooth vitality after pathogen removal from caries-affected dental tissues. The nuclear peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor beta/delta (PPARβ/δ) is a ligand-activated transcription factor with emerging anti-inflammatory roles in many cells and tissues. However, its expression and functions are poorly understood in human dental pulp cells (hDPCs). Thus, this study evaluated PPARβ/δ expression and assessed the anti-inflammatory effects evoked by activation of PPARβ/δ in lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) induced hDPCs. Our results showed that hDPCs constitutively expressed PPARβ/δ mRNA/protein, and treatment with LPS increased PPARβ/δ mRNA expression. The selective PPARβ/δ agonist GW0742 significantly decreased inflammation-related mRNA expression in hDPCs (IL6, IL1β, TNFα, MMP1, and MMP2) and RAW264.7 cells (Il6 and Tnfα). Further, PPARβ/δ agonist attenuated MMP2/9 gelatinolytic activity in hDPCs. Previously LPS-conditioned hDPCs increased the migration of RAW264.7 cells through the membrane of a Transwell coculture system. Conversely, pretreatment with GW0742 markedly decreased macrophage recruitment. These findings provide among the first evidence that hDPCs express PPARβ/δ. In addition, they suggest that activation of PPARβ/δ by GW0742 can attenuate some cellular and molecular in vitro aspects related to the inflammatory process, pointing out to investigate its potential target role in dental pulp inflammation.

Synovial fluid analysis of MMP-2, MMP-9, and COX-2 as diagnostic markers for naturally occurring septic and aseptic arthritis in horses

The aim of this study was to explore the diagnostic value of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and -9, and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzymes in the synovial fluid of horses with different forms of arthritis. Thirty-two horses were involved in this study and based on the clinical, radiographic, and synovial fluid examinations, the horses were divided into three groups: control (group I; n = 12), septic arthritis (group II; n = 5), and aseptic arthritis (group III; n = 15). After routine analysis, synovial fluid was used for assessment of MMP-2 and MMP–9 activities by gelatin zymography, and COX-2 relative gene expression by quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Synovial fluid gelatin zymography showed significant gelatinolytic activity for MMP-9 in group II. COX-2 exhibited a 50-fold expression in group II and a 4.5-fold expression in group III compared to group I. In conclusion, the results confirm that MMP-9 and COX-2 detection offers an important diagnostic potential for septic and aseptic arthritis in horses.

Experimental dentin adhesives containing calcium orthophosphate particles: Effect on dentin bond strength, micro-permeability and collagen degradation

PurposeTo assess the effect of dicalcium phosphate dihydrate (DCPD) or mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) particles on the microtensile bond strength (μTBS), micro-permeability and enzymatic activity at the adhesive-dentin interface of experimental dental adhesives. Materials and methodsAn experimental ethanol-based, two-step etch-and-rinse adhesive system was prepared. Four experimental groups were tested, based on the type of particle added: (1) DCPD functionalized with diethylene glycol dimethacrylate (DCPD_DEGDMA), (2) citric acid (DCPD_CA), (3) calcium silicate (MTA) and (4) unfilled (control). All particles were added at 10 wt%. Human third molars had their occlusal enamel removed and dentin surface polished. After acid etching, the adhesives were applied on the dentin surfaces and the teeth were restored with a commercial nanofilled resin composite. The μTBS and micro-permeability were tested after 24 h or 2 months of storage in simulated body fluid (SBF) at 37 °C. Bonded interfaces were observed using scanning electron microcopy (SEM). Gelatinolytic activity at the adhesive interfaces was assessed by in situ zymography at 24 h and 2 months in SBF/37 °C. The results were described as relative florescent units (RFU). μTBS data were analyzed by ANOVA/Games–Howell test. Data from micro-permeability and in situ zymography were analyzed by Kruskal–Wallis/Mann–Whitney test (alpha: 5%). ResultsDifferences in μTBS were found among adhesives (control = MTA > DCPD_CA > DCPD_DEGDMA, p < 0.001), but not between storage times. The control group showed the lowest permeability at both observation periods. Except for DCPD_CA, no significant increases in micro-permeability were observed after 2 months. All groups presented significant reductions in RFU values between 24 h and 2 months. DCPD_DEGDMA (at 24 h) and MTA (at 2 months) presented statistically lower RFU than the control (p < 0.01). ConclusionEvidence of reduced MMP activity was observed at adhesive interfaces with the use of experimental adhesives containing calcium-releasing particles. However, after two months, bond strength and micro-permeability results suggest that interfacial stability was not affected by adhesive formulation.

Temporomandibular inflammation regulates the matrix metalloproteinases MMP-2 and MMP-9 in limbic structures.

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is characterized by acute or chronic orofacial pain, which can be associated with inflammatory processes in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and emotional disorders. Peripheral and central sensitization in painful orofacial processes is common, and it can be triggered by peripheral inflammatory challenge with consequent neuroinflammation phenomena. Such neuroinflammation comes from inflammatory products from supportive cells, blood-brain barrier, and extracellular matrix. Here, we evaluated the possible recruitment of limbic structures for modified matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) expression and activity during temporomandibular inflammation-induced orofacial persistent pain. The inflammatory process in TMJs of rats was induced by Freund's Complete Adjuvant (CFA) administration. The activity and expression of MMPs-2 and 9 were assessed by in situ zymography and conventional zymography, respectively. A glial colocalization with the MMPs was performed using immunofluorescence. The results evidenced both short- and long-term alterations on MMP-2 and -9 expression in the limbic structures following CFA-induced temporomandibular inflammation. The gelatinolytic activity was increased in the central amygdala, hippocampus, hypothalamus, ventrolateral periaqueductal gray (vlPAG), superior colliculus, and inferior colliculus. Finally, an increase of colocalization of MMP-2/GFAP and MMP-9/GFAP in CFA-induced inflammation groups was observed when compared with saline groups in the central amygdala and vlPAG. It is possible to suggest that glial activation is partly responsible for the production of gelatinases in the persistent orofacial pain, and it is involved in the initiation and maintenance of this process, indicating that inhibition of MMPs might be pursued as a potential new therapeutic target for TMD.

Impact of biomineralization on resin/biomineralized dentin bond longevity in a minimally invasive approach: An “in vitro” 18-month follow-up

ObjectivesTo determine the impact of treating caries-affected dentin (CAD) with: 0.2% sodium fluoride (NaF), casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP/MI Paste™) or peptide P11-4 (Curodont™ Repair) on the longevity of resin/CAD interface at storage times of 24 -h, 6- and 18-month. Methods255 caries-free third molars were used, and CAD was produced by a biological method. The teeth were randomly distributed into: G1- Sound dentin (SD); G2- CAD; G3- CAD + 0.2% NaF (CAD/NaF); G4- CAD + CPP-ACP (CAD/ACP); G5- CAD + Curodont™ Repair (CAD/P11-4). The Filtek Z350 composite resin block was bonded to dentin using Adper™ Single 2 (4 mm/height). Resin/dentin blocks were stored in a solution of Simulated Body Fluid at 37 °C, pressures were modified to simulate natural pulpal pressures. Specimens were investigated by microtensile bond strength (μTBS) (n = 8), Scanning Electron Microscopy (to assess the failure mode) (n = 8), nanoinfiltration (to assess the interface sealing) (n = 3), in situ zymography (to assess the gelatinolytic activity) (n = 3) and micro-computed microtomography (μ-CT) (to assess the mineralization) (n = 3). Data from μTBS, μ-CT and, nanoinfiltration and hybrid layer formation/degradation were submitted to two-way ANOVA and Tukey tests, and failure patterns and in situ zymography to Kruskal–Wallis and Dunn tests (α = 5%). ResultsThe highest mineral density change by μ-CT, smallest silver nitrate infiltration and proteolytic activity in the adhesive layer were obtained significantly for the groups SD, CAD/ACP and CAD/P11-4, with most mixed fractures at 18-month (p < 0.001). CAD/NaF showed significantly similar values to CAD, CAD and CAD/NaF which presented a high percentage of adhesive fracture (p < 0.001) at all time periods. SignificanceTreating caries-affected dentin with remineralizing agents CPP-ACP and Curodont™ Repair, has the potential to be a clinically relevant treatment protocol to increase the longevity of adhesive restorations.

Incorporation of chitosan into a universal adhesive system: Physicochemical characteristics, gelatinolytic activity, bond strength and interface micromorphology analyses

This study evaluated the physicochemical characteristics (particle size, zeta potential and polydispersity index) of a universal adhesive system (Scotchbond Universal/3 M ESPE) containing 0.5% chitosan (Ch), used as a self-etching (SE) or a total-etching (TE) strategy, and the effects of this chitosan-incorporated adhesive on microtensile bond strength stability to dentin, dentin-restoration interface, and gelatinolytic activity by in situ zymography. Dentin surfaces received treatments applying adhesive systems with or without Ch, and were used with an SE or a TE strategy. Composite resin blocks were built, and sticks were obtained and separated for microtensile bond strength tests (n = 10). Assessments were made after 24-h and 6-month storage, and the dentin/resin interface was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and zymography analyses (n = 4). Particle size and polydispersity index increased significantly, whereas zeta potential increased and decreased significantly over time. Microtensile bond strength for the SE (without Ch) and TE (with Ch) strategies decreased significantly after 6 months (p < 0.0001). At 6 months, the TE strategy had significantly higher microtensile bond strength than SE. SE and TE strategies (both with Ch) provided higher collagenolytic activity than SE and TE (without Ch) (p = 0.0007). Addition of 0.5% chitosan promoted solution instability. Both the TE strategy and the Ch incorporation affected microtensile bond strength negatively. There was higher collagenolytic activity when Ch was incorporated into the adhesive, regardless of the application strategy.

Memantine protects blood-brain barrier integrity and attenuates neurological deficits through inhibiting nitric oxide synthase ser1412 phosphorylation in intracerebral hemorrhage rats: involvement of peroxynitrite-related matrix metalloproteinase-9/NLRP3 inflammasome activation.

Memantine has demonstrated beneficial effects on several types of brain insults via therapeutic mechanisms mainly related to its activity as a receptor antagonist of N-methyl-d-aspartate. However, the influences of memantine on intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) remain obscure. This research probed into the neurovascular protective mechanisms of memantine after ICH and its impacts on neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) ser1412 phosphorylation. ICH model was established by employing intrastriatal collagenase injection in rats. After modeling, rats were then allocated randomly into sham-operated (sham), vehicle-treated (ICH+V), and memantine-administrated (ICH+M) groups. Memantine (20 mg/kg/day) was intraperitoneally administered 30 min after ICH and thenceforth once daily. Rats were dedicated at 0.25, 6, 12, 24 h, 3 and 7 d post-ICH for measurement of corresponding indexes. Behavioral changes, brain edema, levels of nNOS ser1412 phosphorylation, peroxynitrite, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9, NLRP3, IL-1β and numbers of dying neurons, as well as the cellular localization of gelatinolytic activity, were detected among the groups. Memantine improved the neurologic deficits and mitigated brain water content, levels of MMP-9, NLRP3, IL-1β and dying neurons. Additionally, treatment with memantine also reduced nNOS ser1412 phosphorylation and peroxynitrite formation compared with the ICH+V group at 24 h after ICH. In situ zymography simultaneously revealed that gelatinase activity was primarily colocalized with vessel walls and neurons. We concluded that memantine ameliorated blood-brain barrier disruption and neurologic dysfunction in an ICH rat model. The underlying mechanism might involve repression of nNOS ser1412 phosphorylation, as well as peroxynitrite-related MMP-9 and NLRP3 inflammasome activation.

Effect of natural primer associated to bioactive glass-ceramic on adhesive/dentin interface

ObjectivesThis study evaluated the effect of propolis associated with Biosilicate on the bond strength (BS) and gelatinolytic activity at the adhesive/dentin interface. MethodsOcclusal cavities were prepared in 320 human molars. Half of them were submitted to cariogenic challenge. All the teeth were separated into eight groups (n = 20): Control – Adhesive System (Single Bond Universal, 3 MESPE); CHX – 0.12 % Chlorhexidine; Bio – 10 % Biosilicate; P16 – Propolis with low levels of polyphenols; P45 – Propolis with high levels of polyphenols; CHX Bio – CHX + Bio; P16 Bio – P16+Bio; P45 Bio – P45+Bio. The adhesive was applied (self-etch mode) after treatments. Restorations (Filtek Z350, 3 MESPE) were performed and samples sectioned into sticks, separated and stored in distilled water at 37 °C for 24 h, 6 months and 1 year. Microtensile BS (0.5 mm/min) was tested and analyzed (2-way ANOVA, Bonferroni’s Test, p < .05 and Weibull analysis). Fracture patterns (VH-M100, Keyence) and adhesive interfaces (SEM, EVO-MA10, ZEISS and TEM, JEM-1010, JEOL) were observed; and biodegradation and in situ zymography performed. ResultsP16 presented the highest BS values on sound dentin after 6 months. In caries-affected dentin (CAD), the association of treatments promoted the highest BS after 24 h. Sound dentin obtained significantly higher Weibull modulus than CAD. SEM displayed resin tags in P16, P45 and association of treatments. TEM showed good interaction between adhesive and dentin. According to the in situ zymography and biodegradation assay all natural primers reduced the gelatinolytic activity. P45 presented the lowest biodegradation and enzymatic activity. ConclusionsPropolis and the association of treatments promoted the highest bond strength results and preserved the dentin. All the experimental groups exhibited low gelatinolytic activity. Clinical significancePropolis and the association of treatments with Biosilicate could preserve the dentin substrate and improve the longevity of composite restorations.

Myeloperoxidase Inhibition Decreases the Expression of Collagen and Metallopeptidase in Mare Endometria under In Vitro Conditions.

Simple SummaryMyeloperoxidase, which is released by neutrophils when they form neutrophil extracellular traps, has already been related to equine endometrosis development. The myeloperoxidase inhibitor 4-aminobenzoic acid hydrazide (ABAH) has shown promising results inhibiting myeloperoxidase in other pathological conditions. The metallopeptidases (MMP-2/-9) regulates the extracellular matrix turnover. In the present study, in equine explants from follicular phase, myeloperoxidase treatment increased collagen type I relative protein abundance, but the use of ABAH reduced it. In mid-luteal phase endometrial explants, MMP-2 seems to be implicated in an acute reaction to myeloperoxidase treatment, while in the follicular phase, MMP-9 might be associated with a prolonged exposition to myeloperoxidase. The impairment of equine endometrosis can be achieved by inhibiting the pro-fibrotic effects of myeloperoxidase using the inhibitor ABAH.Neutrophils can originate neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). Myeloperoxidase (MPO) is a peroxidase found in NETs associated to equine endometrosis and can be inhibited by 4-aminobenzoic acid hydrazide (ABAH). Metallopeptidases (MMPs) participate in extracellular matrix stability and fibrosis development. The objectives of this in vitro work were to investigate, in explants of mare’s endometrium, (i) the ABAH capacity to inhibit MPO-induced collagen type I (COL1) expression; and (ii) the action of MPO and ABAH on the expression and gelatinolytic activity of MMP-2/-9. Explants retrieved from the endometrium of mares in follicular or mid-luteal phases were treated with MPO, ABAH, or their combination, for 24 or 48 h. The qPCR analysis measured the transcription of COL1A2, MMP2, and MMP9. Western blot and zymography were performed to evaluate COL1 protein relative abundance and gelatinolytic activity of MMP-2/-9, respectively. Myeloperoxidase elevated COL1 relative protein abundance at both treatment times in follicular phase (p < 0.05). The capacity of ABAH to inhibit MPO-induced COL1 was detected in follicular phase at 48 h (p < 0.05). The gelatinolytic activity of activated MMP-2 augmented in mid-luteal phase at 24 h after MPO treatment, but it was reduced with MPO+ABAH treatment. The activity of MMP-9 active form augmented in MPO-treated explants. However, this effect was inhibited by ABAH in the follicular phase at 48 h (p < 0.05). By inhibiting the pro-fibrotic effects of MPO, it might be possible to reduce the development of endometrosis. Metallopeptidase-2 might be involved in an acute response to MPO in the mid-luteal phase, while MMP-9 might be implicated in a prolonged exposition to MPO in the follicular phase.

Oligomeric proanthocyanidins inhibit endogenous enzymatic activity of deciduous carious dentin

Dentin endogenous proteases are involved in the progression of dental caries. This study investigated the proteolytic activity of endogenous enzymes of carious and sound dentin of primary teeth and the potential selective inhibitory effect of plant-derived proanthocyanidins (PACs). Carious and sound dentin from forty extracted primary teeth were collected and cryo-pulverized into a fine powder. Two PAC mixtures were prepared from grape seeds ( Vitis vinifera , Vv ), an oligomer enriched and polymer depleted extract ( Vv e ) as well as a further refined mixture containing primarily trimeric and tetrameric PACs ( Vv 3+4 ). Fluorescein conjugate-gelatin was used as cleavage substrate. The inhibition of endogenous protease activity was determined by the fluorescence emission intensity of cleaved gelatin at 535 nm over a 24-hour period. Deciduous carious dentin exhibited higher gelatinolytic activity (~7 fold higher) than sound dentin (p < 0.001). Treatment with 0.65% Vv e or Vv 3+4 inhibited proteolytic activity of the primary teeth effectively (p < 0.001). Endogenous enzymes are highly active in carious dentin, contributing for host-driven degradation along with the breakdown by cariogenic bacteria. The protease inhibitory effect of both the refined Vv 3+4 preparation and its Vv e precursor appears to be promising as an effective strategy to impair caries progression in primary teeth.

Kinetics of peripheral blood neutrophils in severe coronavirus disease 2019.

ObjectivesEmerging evidence of dysregulation of the myeloid cell compartment urges investigations on neutrophil characteristics in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). We isolated neutrophils from the blood of COVID‐19 patients receiving general ward care and from patients hospitalised at intensive care units (ICUs) to explore the kinetics of circulating neutrophils and factors important for neutrophil migration and activation.MethodsMulticolour flow cytometry was exploited for the analysis of neutrophil differentiation and activation markers. Multiplex and ELISA technologies were used for the quantification of protease, protease inhibitor, chemokine and cytokine concentrations in plasma. Neutrophil polarisation responses were evaluated microscopically. Gelatinolytic and metalloproteinase activity in plasma was determined using a fluorogenic substrate. Co‐culturing healthy donor neutrophils with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) allowed us to investigate viral replication in neutrophils.ResultsUpon ICU admission, patients displayed high plasma concentrations of granulocyte–colony‐stimulating factor (G‐CSF) and the chemokine CXCL8, accompanied by emergency myelopoiesis as illustrated by high levels of circulating CD10−, immature neutrophils with reduced CXCR2 and C5aR expression. Neutrophil elastase and non‐metalloproteinase‐derived gelatinolytic activity were increased in plasma from ICU patients. Significantly higher levels of circulating tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP‐1) in patients at ICU admission yielded decreased total MMP proteolytic activity in blood. COVID‐19 neutrophils were hyper‐responsive to CXCL8 and CXCL12 in shape change assays. Finally, SARS‐CoV‐2 failed to replicate inside human neutrophils.ConclusionOur study provides detailed insights into the kinetics of neutrophil phenotype and function in severe COVID‐19 patients, and supports the concept of an increased neutrophil activation state in the circulation.

Sodium Hypochlorite and Chlorhexidine Downregulate MMP Expression on Radicular Dentin

Objective: Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are present in radicular dentin and can convert structural matrix proteins into signaling molecules; thus, these enzymes play an essential role in dentin biomineralization and tissue regeneration therapies. Their expression on radicular dentin may be affected by the irrigation solutions used during root canal treatments. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of the most common irrigants on radicular dentin MMP expression. Materials and Methods: The experimental solutions were distilled water (control), 5% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), 18% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), and 2% chlorhexidine (CHX). Samples were prepared from extracted human teeth. For zymography analysis, root sections were powderized, and dentin proteins were extracted to observe gelatinolytic activity. Root dentin slices were treated with the experimental solutions for immunohistochemical analysis using anti-MMP-2 and anti-MMP-9 antibodies. ANOVA and the Tukey test were performed. Results: Zymograms revealed the presence of MMP-2, MMP-8, and MMP-20 in the control group and the EDTA-treated group. Immunohistochemistry confirmed the presence of MMP-2 and MMP-9 mainly associated with the dentinal tubule lumens and occasionally with intertubular dentin. NaOCl- and CHX-treated groups showed lower expression of MMPs than the control group. Immuno­staining for both proteinases in the EDTA-treated group showed higher expression compared to the other experimental groups. Conclusion: Our results showed that most common irrigants affect MMP expression on radicular dentin. Treatment with NaOCl and chlorhexidine resulted in lower expression of MMPs, while EDTA increased their expression in root canal dentin.

Skin-healing properties of ginsenoside Rd against Ultraviolet-B-induced photooxidative stress through up-regulation of antioxidant components in HaCaT keratinocytes

Background: Korean ginseng (Panax ginseng Meyer) is a traditional herbal medicine used worldwide today. Ginsenoside Rd (Rd), one of its main ginsenosides, has been ascertained to have various pharmacological efficacies including neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory activities. Objectives: This work assesses the antioxidant and protective potentials of Rd against ultraviolet (UV)-B-induced skin photooxidative stress in HaCaT keratinocytes. Materials and Methods: Cell viability was detected using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) were measured using dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate. Promatrix metalloproteinase-2 (proMMP-2) activity and protein were detected using gelatin zymography and western analysis. Total glutathione (GSH) content and total superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity were spectrophotometrically determined. Results: Rd, at varying concentrations non-toxic to HaCaT keratinocytes, attenuated the UV-B-induced ROS generation. Rd at 5, 12, and 30 μM attenuated the UV-B-induced proMMP-2 gelatinolytic activities to 59.3% ± 9.5%, 41.3% ± 9.5%, and 13.1% ± 8.9%, respectively, of those of the non-treated control cells. It could also diminish the UV-B-induced proMMP-2 protein levels. Rd at 5, 12, and 30 μM augmented the UV-B-reduced total SOD activities to 1.6 ± 0.2-, 2.4 ± 0.3-, and 3.2 ± 0.2-fold of those of the non-treated control cells, respectively. Rd could up-regulate the UV-B-reduced total GSH. Conclusion: Rd has counteracting properties against elevated ROS and proMMP-2 and attenuated GSH and SOD under UV-B irradiation, implying that it possesses a protective activity against photoaging possibly through up-regulating antioxidant components. These findings suggest that Rd can be considered as a novel natural resource for anti-photoaging functional cosmetics.