Kidney Accumulation Research Articles

Bio-based synthesis of Nano-Ceria and evaluation of its bio-distribution and biological properties

Bio-based synthesis of Nano-Ceria (NC) was performed in Linum usitatissimum L. (Lu) seeds extract as capping agent. Obtained gel was calcined at 400, 500, and 600 °C to investigate the effect of temperature on the size and morphology of the particles. All samples had spherical morphology which their crystallite size was decreased in higher temperature. Products were characterized by TGA/DTA, UV–vis, FESEM, FTIR and XRD. The band gap of the prepared samples was calculated through Tauc plot in the range of 3.2–3.4 eV. The results of MTT assay confirmed that NC has been shown no significant toxicity on A549 cell line. 2′,7′–dichlorofluorescin diacetate (DCFDA) was used to determine antioxidant properties of NC on A549 cell and the results showed that all concentrations of NC could reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS). NC was labeled with technetium (99mTc) for in vivo bio-distribution study in Wistar rat. Radiolabeled NC was stable in different environments of PBS buffer and human serum with radiochemical purity of more than 95% according to the instant thin layer chromatography (ITLC) method. DLS analysis showed radiolabeled particles had small size and pleasant colloidal stability. Bio-distribution of radiolabeled NC illustrated the highest accumulation in kidneys (1 h: 5.94 ± 0.77%ID/g, 4 h: 10.95 ± 5.99%ID/g, 24 h 7.94 ± 0.36%ID/g). Moreover, low uptake of 99mTc-NC in stomach confirmed the in vivo stability of 99mTc-NC. Accordingly, NC could be a worthy candidate for biological purposes and in vivo studies.

Astaxanthin protects against renal fibrosis through inhibiting myofibroblast activation and promoting CD8+ T cell recruitment

BackgroundRenal fibrosis is a common pathological hallmark of chronic kidney disease, and no effective treatment is clinically available to manage its progression. Astaxanthin was recently found to be anti-fibrotic, but its effect on renal fibrosis remains unclear. MethodsC57BL/6J mice were subjected to unilateral ureteral obstruction and intragastrically administered astaxanthin. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry were performed to evaluate renal fibrosis. Flow cytometry was used to examine lymphocyte accumulation in the fibrotic kidneys. Western blotting, real-time qPCR, and immunofluorescence were performed to cover the underlying mechanism concerning astaxanthin treatment during renal fibrosis. ResultsOral administration of astaxanthin effectively alleviates renal fibrosis in mice. In vitro, astaxanthin inhibited fibroblast activation by modulating Smad2, Akt and STAT3 pathways and suppressed epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in renal tubular epithelial cells through Smad2, snail, and β-catenin. Moreover, astaxanthin significantly induced the rapid accumulation of CD8+ T cells in fibrotic kidneys, which was accompanied by elevated expression of IFN-γ. Accordingly, the depletion of CD8+ T cells strongly diminished the protective effect of astaxanthin. Further investigation showed that astaxanthin increased the population of CD8+ T cells by upregulating the expression of CCL5 in macrophages. ConclusionsThese findings highlight the beneficial effect of astaxanthin on fibroblast activation, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and CD8+ T cell recruitment during renal fibrosis. General significanceThese data indicate that astaxanthin could serve as a therapeutic strategy to treat renal fibrotic conditions.

Evaluating the Impact of Variable Phosphorothioate Content in Tricyclo-DNA Antisense Oligonucleotides in a Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Mouse Model.

Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) hold promise for therapeutic splice switching correction for genetic diseases, in particular for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), for which ASO-exon skipping represents one of the most advanced therapeutic strategies. We have previously reported the therapeutic potential of tricyclo-DNA (tcDNA) in mouse models of DMD, highlighting the unique pharmaceutical properties and unprecedented uptake in many tissues after systemic delivery, including the heart and central nervous system. TcDNA-ASOs demonstrate an encouraging safety profile and no particular class-related toxicity, however, when administered in high doses for several months, mild renal toxicity is observed secondary to predictable phosphorothioate (PS)-ASO accumulation in kidneys. In this study, we investigate the influence of the relative content of PS linkages in tcDNA-ASOs on exon skipping efficacy. Mdx mice were injected intravenously once weekly for 4 weeks with tcDNA carrying various amounts of PS linkages (0%, 25%, 33%, 50%, 67%, 83%, and 100%). The results indicate that levels of exon-23 skipping and dystrophin rescue increase with the number of PS linkages in most skeletal muscles except in the heart. As expected, plasma coagulation times are shortened with decreasing PS content, and tcDNA-protein binding in serum directly correlates with the number of PS linkages on the tcDNA backbone. Altogether, these data contribute in establishing the appropriate sulfur content within the tcDNA backbone for maximal efficacy and minimal toxicity of the oligonucleotide.

Fluorine-18 (18F)-labeled retinoid x receptor (RXR) partial agonist whose tissue transferability is affected by other RXR ligands.

Bexarotene (1), a retinoid X receptor (RXR) agonist approved for the treatment of cutaneous T cell lymphoma (CTCL), was reported to migrate into baboon brain based on findings obtained by positron emission tomography (PET) with a 11C-labeled tracer. However, co-administration of non-radioactive 1 had no effect on the distribution of [11C]1, probably due to non-specific binding of 1 as a result of its high lipophilicity. Here, we report a fluorine-18 (18F)-labeled PET tracer [18F]6 derived from RXR partial agonist CBt-PMN (2), which has lower lipophilicity and weaker RXR-binding ability than [11C]1. The concomitant administration of 1 or 2 with [18F]6 with resulted in decreased accumulation of [18F]6 in liver, together with increased brain uptake and increased accumulation in kidney and muscle, as visualized by PET. A plausible explanation of these findings is the inhibition of [18F]6 uptake into the liver by concomitantly administered 1 or 2, leading to an increase in blood concentration of [18F]6 followed by increased accumulation in other tissues.

PPARα/β Activation Alleviates Age-Associated Renal Fibrosis in Sprague Dawley Rats.

Age-associated renal fibrosis is commonly observed, with a decline in renal function during aging. Although peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors α/β (PPARα/β) activation has been shown to exert beneficial effects on age-associated renal changes, its effects on age-associated renal fibrosis have not been investigated yet. Here, we show that the PPARα/β activator, MHY2013, can significantly alter lipid metabolism in renal tubule epithelial cells and attenuate renal fibrosis in aged Sprague Dawley (SD) rats. We found that MHY2013 significantly increased nuclear translocation and activity of PPARα/β in NRK52E renal epithelial cells. Moreover, the enhanced PPARα/β activity increased the expression of fatty acid oxidation-associated PPARα/β target genes. In addition, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)- and oleic acid-induced lipid accumulation and fibrosis-associated gene expression were decreased in NRK52E cells by MHY2013 pretreatment. To evaluate the effects of MHY2013 on age-associated renal fibrosis, aged SD rates were orally administered MHY2013 (1 and 5 mg/kg) daily for 1 month. MHY2013 efficiently increased PPARα/β activation and reduced renal lipid accumulation in aged SD rat kidneys. Furthermore, renal fibrosis was significantly decreased by MHY2013, indicating the importance of renal lipid metabolism in age-associated renal fibrosis. Taken together, our results suggest that activation of PPARα/β signaling during aging prevents age-associated renal fibrosis.

Comparison of desferrioxamine and NODAGA for the gallium-68 labeling of exendin-4

IntroductionRadiolabeled exendin-4 (Ex4) derivatives are used to target the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) for the clinical diagnosis of insulinomas, a rare type of neuroendocrine tumor. Gallium-68 is an ideal diagnostic nuclide for this application and a study evaluating an exendin-4-NODAGA conjugate is currently underway. However, in complexion with the chelator DFO, its in vivo stability has been a matter of dispute. The aim of this work was to directly compare [68Ga]Ga-Ex4NOD with [68Ga]Ga-Ex4DFO in vitro and in vivo.MethodsIn our approach, we directly compared N′-[5-(acetyl-hydroxy-amino)pentyl]-N-[5-[3-(5-aminopentyl-hydroxy-carbamoyl)propanoylamino]pentyl]-N-hydroxy-butane diamide (desferriox-amine B, DFO) and 2-(4,7-bis (carboxymethyl)-1,4,7-triazonan-1-yl) pentanedioic acid (NODAGA) conjugated to exendin-4 in vitro and in vivo. We radiolabeled the peptides with gallium-68, followed by HPLC quality control. In vitro characterization was performed in CHL cells overexpressing the GLP-1R and in vivo studies were conducted with CD1 nu/nu mice carrying tumors derived from these cells.ResultsWe found that both peptides could be radiolabeled with a molar activity of about 9.33 MBq/nmol without further purification. They internalized equally well into GLP-1R-expressing cells and their IC50 was similar with 15.6 ± 7.8 nM and 18.4 ± 3.0 nM for [natGa]Ga-Ex4NOD and [natGa]Ga-Ex4DFO, respectively. In vivo, [68Ga]Ga-Ex4NOD accumulated more in all tissue, while [68Ga]Ga-Ex4DFO exhibited a more favorable target-to-kidney ratio.Conclusion and relevanceDFO is a suitable chelator for the radiolabeling of exendin-4 derivatives with gallium-68 for in vitro and preclinical in vivo studies. DFO performed better in vivo due to its significantly lower kidney accumulation (p < 0.0001). It was also found to be stable in vivo in mice, contrary to earlier reports. Based on our results, the DFO chelating system in combination with exendin-4 would be an interesting option for clinical imaging of insulinomas.

Unprecedently high targeting specificity toward lung ICAM-1 using 3DNA nanocarriers

DNA nanostructures hold great potential for drug delivery. However, their specific targeting is often compromised by recognition by scavenger receptors involved in clearance. In our previous study in cell culture, we showed targeting specificity of a 180 nm, 4-layer DNA-built nanocarrier called 3DNA coupled with antibodies against intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), a glycoprotein overexpressed in the lungs in many diseases. Here, we examined the biodistribution of various 3DNA formulations in mice. A formulation consisted of 3DNA whose outer-layer arms were hybridized to secondary antibody-oligonucleotide conjugates. Anchoring IgG on this formulation reduced circulation and kidney accumulation vs. non-anchored IgG, while increasing liver and spleen clearance, as expected for a nanocarrier. Anchoring anti-ICAM changed the biodistribution of this antibody similarly, yet this formulation specifically accumulated in the lungs, the main ICAM-1 target. Since lung targeting was modest (2-fold specificity index over IgG formulation), we pursued a second preparation involving direct hybridization of primary antibody-oligonucleotide conjugates to 3DNA. This formulation had prolonged stability in serum and showed a dramatic increase in lung distribution: the specificity index was 424-fold above a matching IgG formulation, 144-fold more specific than observed for PLGA nanoparticles of similar size, polydispersity, ζ-potential and antibody valency, and its lung accumulation increased with the number of anti-ICAM molecules per particle. Immunohistochemistry showed that anti-ICAM and 3DNA components colocalized in the lungs, specifically associating with endothelial markers, without apparent histological changes. The degree of in vivo targeting for anti-ICAM/3DNA-nanocarriers is unprecedented, for which this platform technology holds great potential to develop future therapeutic applications.

Nephroprotective effects of Lachnum melanin against acute kidney injury induced by cisplatin in mice

Abstract The purpose of the present research was to discuss renoprotective effects of intracellular melanin from Lachnum YM156 (LIM) on cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) in mice and to explore its possible mechanisms. No cytotoxicity of LIM on the HSF and LO2 cells was found by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Cisplatin treatment resulted in noticeable weight loss, raised kidney index, elevated levels of serum creatinine (Cr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and increased platinum accumulation in kidneys. Additionally, renal oxidative stress was evidenced by the increase of malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration and reduction of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and glutathione (GSH) levels after cisplatin administration. The result of quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) showed that cisplatin treatment significantly elevated the mRNA expression levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) in kidneys. Furthermore, western blotting analysis demonstrated that cisplatin administration significantly increased the protein expression levels of nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) p65, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), p-p38 MAPK, p53, caspase 3, cleaved caspase 3 and p38 MAPK, suggesting the inflammation and apoptosis response. However, all these changes were dose-dependently reversed by LIM. Overall, LIM may possess protective effects in cisplatin-induced AKI through suppression of oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis.

The interrelationship between gasotransmitters and lead-induced renal toxicity in rats

This study explored the role of gasotransmitters in lead-induced nephrotoxicity. Long-term exposure of rats to lead resulted in its accumulation in kidney. The accumulated metal impaired kidney function and structure. Lead intoxication resulted in oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis in kidney. In addition, it resulted in nitric oxide (NO) overproduction and decrease in hydrogen sulfide (H2S) level and heme oxygenase (HO-1) concentration in kidney. Inhibition of NO overproduction by L–N(G)-nitroarginine methyl ester (L–NAME) and increasing of H2S level by sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS) and CO level by carbon monoxide-releasing molecule-A1 (CORM-A1) inhibited lead-induced impairment of kidney function and structure. These agents inhibited lead-intoxication induced oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, nitrosative stress and reduction of H2S level and HO-1 concentration. Also, concomitant treatment with these agents inhibited lead intoxication-induced increase in protein expressions of inducible NO synthase (iNOS), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1beta (IL-1β) and caspase-3 as well as decrease in protein expressions of HO-1 and cystathionine- γ-lyase (CSE) in kidney. The NO donor, L-arginine and the H2S and CO biosynthesis inhibitors, trifluoro-DL-alanine and zinc deutroporphyrin, respectively produced opposite effects and aggravated the toxic effects of lead. These results demonstrate, for the first time, that gasotransmitters play an important role in lead-induced nephrotoxicity.

Examining the Effects of Chronic Selenium Exposure on Traditionally Used Stress Parameters in Juvenile American Alligators (Alligator mississippiensis).

Environmental contaminants, such as the trace element selenium (Se), are a continuing concern to species worldwide due to their potential pathophysiological effects, including their influence on the stress response mediated through glucocorticoids (GCs; stress hormones). Environmental concentrations of Se are increasing due to anthropogenic activities, including the incomplete combustion of coal and subsequent disposal of coal combustion wastes. However, most studies examining how Se affects GCs have been focused on lower trophic organisms. The objectives of this study were to investigate the effects of long-term Se exposure on traditionally used stress parameters and to identify which of these parameters best indicate Se accumulation in liver and kidney of the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis), a top trophic carnivore found in the southeastern United States and known to inhabit Se-containing areas. Alligators were divided into three dietary treatments and fed prey spiked with 1000 or 2000ppm of selenomethionine (SeMet) or deionized water (control treatment) for 7weeks. Following the 7-week treatment protocol, blood and tissue samples were obtained to measure plasma corticosterone (CORT; the main crocodilian GC), tail scute CORT, the ratio of peripheral blood heterophils (H) to lymphocytes (L) as H/L ratio, and body condition. To evaluate which parameter best indicated Se accumulation in the liver and kidney, principal component and discriminant analyses were performed. The only parameter significantly correlated with liver and kidney Se concentrations was scute CORT. Our results suggest that measurement of CORT in tail scutes compared with plasma CORT, H/L ratios, and body condition is the best indicator of Se-exposure and accumulation in crocodilians.

Effect of lactic acid bacteria on mercury toxicokinetics

The capacity of two LAB strains to inhibit inorganic [Hg(II)] and organic (methyl-Hg; MeHg) mercury translocation through monolayers of co-cultures of NCM460 and HT29-MTX colonic cells was evaluated. Lactobacillus casei BL23 and Lactobacillus acidophilus ATCC4356 reduced the permeability of Hg(II) and MeHg from aqueous solutions through NCM460/HT29-MTX monolayers (20–94% reduction). However, assays using the bioaccessible (soluble) Hg fraction obtained by in vitro gastrointestinal digestion of Hg-contaminated swordfish only showed a reduction (42%) with the BL23 strain. In vivo experiments carried out in mice receiving an acute dose of Hg(II) or MeHg (0.5 mg/kg body weight/day) with or without lactobacilli resulted in significant decreases of the bioavailability of MeHg with both strains and increased excretion of Hg in feces after treatment with the lactobacilli. However, Hg(II) bioavailability or excretion was not affected. Hg accumulation in liver and kidney remained similar in LAB-treated or non-treated animals. This is the first study of the impact of LAB on Hg(II) and MeHg toxicokinetics and shows that some LAB strains have potential to diminish MeHg bioavailability. Furthermore, it has established the basis for new studies on the protective effect of LAB under conditions resembling subchronic and chronic Hg exposures.

Sex differences in subacute manganese intoxication: Oxidative parameters and metal deposition in peripheral organs of adult Wistar rats

IntroductionManganese (Mn) is an essential element required for several biological systems. However, it is toxic in excessive accumulation. The toxic effects following Mn overexposure is well known in the CNS but other studies evaluating other target tissues remain scarce. ObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate sex-related differences in oxidative stress, metabolic parameters and Mn deposition in peripheral organs of Wistar rats exposed to subacute model of intoxication. MethodsMale and female adult Wistar rats received 6 or 15 mg/kg of MnCl2, intraperitoneally, 5 days a week, for 4 consecutive weeks to mimic subacute intoxication. Control group received sterile saline 0,9% following the same protocol. After this period, the metal accumulation, oxidative stress, mitochondrial activity and histological parameters in cardiac muscle, kidney, lungs and liver were analysed. ResultsIncreased Mn concentrations were found in all organs, especially kidneys. The cardiac muscle analysis revealed increased lipid peroxidation and decreasing of GSH levels in both doses of Mn in male and female rats. The increase of lipid peroxidation in liver was more evident in the male group, and there was a significant decrease of antioxidant capacity in males’ kidney. Nevertheless, there was an increase of mitochondrial complex I activity in kidney of females and increase of mitochondrial complex II activity in male group. Histological analysis revealed morphological changes in hepatic and pulmonary tissue. ConclusionTaken together, our results showed that subacute Mn exposure lead to significant metabolic, biochemical alterations especially in kidney and liver. Nevertheless, despite Mn deposition was virtually the same in the peripheral organs of male and female rats, it promotes different toxic effects between sexes.

Neutrophils in lupus nephritis.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a multiorgan autoimmune disease characterized by IgG-autoantibodies to nuclear antigens that can deposit in the kidney and trigger lupus nephritis. Neutrophils accumulate in the kidneys of patients with proliferative LUPUS NEPHRITIS and neutrophil products and a subset of granulocytes, called low-density granulocytes (LDG) may contribute to lupus nephritis pathogenesis. Here, we will discuss recent studies implicating neutrophils in the pathogenesis of human SLE nephritis and then examine studies that provide mechanistic insights into how these cells are recruited to the glomerulus following immune complex deposition and how their products may promote lupus nephritis. SLE patients display unique blood transcriptional signatures linked to Type I interferon and myeloblast differentiation, which could help stratify lupus nephritis progression. Multiphoton intravital microscopy of kidney glomerular capillaries revealed a role for neutrophil FcγRs in the rapid capture of neutrophils following immune complex deposition. The view that reduced degradation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETS) contributes to lupus nephritis progression, is now challenged by experimental data in lupus-prone mice that genetically fail to produce NETS but still are afflicted. A greater understanding of the neutrophil dependent mechanisms that promote lupus nephritis may potentially inform on newer therapeutic options that target neutrophil accumulation and reactivity in the nephritic kidney.

Ursolic acid inhibits epithelial-mesenchymal transition in vitro and in vivo

Context: Ursolic acid (UA; 3β-hydroxy-urs-12-en-28-oic acid), one of the pentacyclic triterpenoids found in various plants and herbs, possesses some beneficial effects under pathological conditions, including combating hepatic fibrosis.Objective: This study investigates the effects of UA on renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis in vivo and in vitro.Materials and methods: In vivo, 24 male C57BL6 mice were divided into four groups. Eighteen mice were subjected to unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) and the remaining six sham-operated mice served as control. UUO mice received either vehicle or UA (50 or 100 mg/kg) by gastric gavage for 6 days. In vitro, HK-2 cells were treated with 10 or 50 μM UA and 10 ng/mL recombinant human transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1). The molecular mechanisms of fibrosis were investigated.Results: UUO induced marked interstitial collagen I and fibronectin deposition and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), as evidenced by increased α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and decreased E-cadherin. However, UA treatment significantly reduced collagen I and fibronectin accumulation in the fibrotic kidney. UA treatment also decreased α-SMA and preserved E-cadherin in vivo. In vitro, TGF-β1-treated HK-2 cells demonstrated elevated α-SMA, snail1, slug, TGF-β1, and p-smad3, as well as diminished E-cadherin. UA pretreatment prevented E-cadherin loss and diminished α-SMA expression in HK-2 cells. UA downregulated mRNA expression of snail1 and slug. UA also lowered TGF-β1 protein expression and p-Smad3 in HK-2 cells.Conclusions: UA attenuated renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis by inhibiting EMT, and such inhibition may be achieved by decreasing profibrotic factors. UA may be a novel therapeutic agent for renal fibrosis.

Discussions with Leaders: A Conversation Between Richard Wahl and Johannes Czernin.

3 Objectives: As a common reactive oxygen species (ROS)-related renal disease, acute kidney injury (AKI) causes numerous deaths annually, and only supportive treatment is currently available in the clinics. The detrimental reactive oxygen species (ROS) that trigger oxidative stress and inflammation are believed to induce the AKI. Recent progress in nanomedicine has enabled the dramatic treatment of ROS-related diseases using the nano-antioxidants, which, however, are subject to uptake by the kidney due to the renal glomerular filtration barrier. Our goal is to exploit the nano-antioxidants with high renal accumulation and presenting therapeutic effect for AKI. Methods: The blue Mo-based polyoxometalate (POM) nanoclusters were found to exhibit broad antioxidative activities against multiple toxic ROS including H2O2, O2•−, and •OH, where the readily variable valence of Mo5+ and Mo6+ in POM plays an important role in scavenging ROS. The murine model of AKI was built through intramuscular injection of 50% glycerol into dehydrated normal mice. Two hours after induction of AKI,POM radiolabeled with 89Zr was intravenously injected into AKI mice. Longitudinal PET imaging was then performed at various time points to monitor the renal accumulation in vivo. The therapeutic efficacy against AKI in living animals was evaluated by a dynamic PET with 68Ga-EDTA, blood urea nitrogen and creatinine measurements, H&E staining of kidney tissues, and biomarkers detection (e.g., kidney injury molecule-1, heme oxygenase-1, level of superoxide dismutase, DNA damage, etc.) in the kidneys. Results: These ultra-small POM nanoclusters containing elements of Mo, O, and P were uniform with an average diameter of ca. 1 nm. The hydrated size of POM is below 10 nm, which meets the threshold for kidney filtration and thus are able to pass through. They exhibited high ROS (i.e., H2O2, O2•- and •OH) scavenging activity, which were confirmed both in solutions and on cells. PET imaging of AKI mice showed that these nanoclusters presented high and gradual accumulation in the injured kidneys at all examined time points after injection, and the renal uptake of 89Zr-POM at 24 h post-injection (p.i.) was 17.7 ± 3.1 %ID/g. Furthermore, the dynamic PET with 68Ga-EDTA, blood urea nitrogen and creatinine measurements, and H&E staining of kidney tissues revealed that these ultra-small nanoclusters could recover renal function in the AKI mice. The detection of ROS-related biomarkers in renal tissues revealed the anti-oxidative roles of POM nanoclusters in AKI mice, which were reduced to the levels observed in healthy mice. CONCLUSION: In summary, a novel multi-antioxidant in the form of POM nanoclusters for antioxidative therapy of AKI in living animals was presented. Our findings revealed that POM nanoclusters exhibited broad antioxidative activities against multiple toxic ROS including H2O2, O2•−, and •OH.With high renal uptake, these ultra-small nanoclusters displayed excellent therapeutic efficacy of AKI induced by ROS, which has been demonstrated by dynamic PET imaging with 68Ga-EDTA, blood urea nitrogen and creatinine measurements, H&E staining, and biomarkers detection of kidney tissues. The protective effect of POM nanoclusters against AKI in living animals suggests exploring their use for the treatment of AKI patients, as well as patients with other ROS-related diseases.

A 89Zr-labeled lipoplex nanosystem for image-guided gene delivery: design, evaluation of stability and in vivo behavior.

BackgroundWith the advances in radiopharmaceutical research, the development of image-guided therapy has become a major interest. While the development of theranostic nanotherapeutics is frequently associated with cancer chemotherapy, phototherapy and radiotherapy, there is little information available on the in vivo monitoring of gene delivery systems and the application of image-guided approach in gene therapy. The goal of this work was to determine the in vivo behavior of DNA delivery nanosystems - based on cationic gemini surfactants – designed for image-guided gene therapy. We tested the feasibility of monitoring tumor accumulation of gene delivery nanoparticles by positron emission tomography.MethodsTo be able to conjugate radiotracers to the nanoparticles, a deferoxamine-modified gemini surfactant was synthesized, DNA-containing lipoplex nanoparticles were formulated, and radiolabeled with Zirconium-89 (89Zr). The pharmacokinetics and biodistribution of 89Zr labeled surfactant and 89Zr labeled nanoparticles were monitored in mice by microPET/CT imaging and ex vivo gamma counting.ResultsModification of the nanoparticles with deferoxamine did not alter their physicochemical properties. The radiolabeled nanoparticles (labeling efficiency of 95±3%) were stable in PBS and serum. The biological half-life of the 89Zr labeled nanoparticles was significantly higher compared to 89Zr labeled surfactant. As expected, the nanoparticles had significantly higher liver accumulation than the radiolabeled surfactant alone and lower kidney accumulation. Tumor uptake was detected at 2 hours post injection and decreased throughout the 3-day monitoring.ConclusionWe propose that radiolabeling DNA delivery lipoplex nanosystems is a promising approach for the design and optimization of image-guided nanomedicines, especially in the context of cancer gene therapy.

Резекция печени изменяет механизмы выведения аммиака почками крыс с хроническим тетрахлорметановым гепатитом

Цель исследования - изучение влияния резекции печени (РП) на аммиакэкскретирующую функцию почек при хроническом тетрахлорметановом гепатите. Методика. Опыты выполнены на 265 беспородных белых крысах (самках) массой 180-220 г. Хронический гепатит воспроизводили подкожным введением 50% раствора тетрахлорметана (CCl) на оливковом масле (0,1 мл/100 г массы тела, через сутки, c двумя двухнедельными перерывами между 6, 7 и 13-14 инъекциями). На 65-е сут. (последние) введения тетрахлорметана, удаляли часть левой доли печени (15-20% массы органа). На 3-и, 7-е и 14-е сут. после РП или лапаротомии («ложнооперированные» животные) в почках, артериальной и венозной крови, моче исследовали содержание аммиака, глутамина и мочевины. Результаты. Прогрессирование эндогенной аммиачной интоксикации после РП на фоне тетрахлорметанового гепатита сопровождается повышенной экскрецией аммиака почками. Однако это не устраняет артериальную гипераммониемию и не предотвращает накопление почками аммиака. Инкреция глютамина из почек в кровоток прекращается. К 14-м сут. послеоперационного периода возрастает потребление глютамина из артериальной крови, что приводит к его накоплению в почках. Стимулируя выведение мочевины из организма с мочой, РП одновременно активирует её образование в почках, с дальнейшим поступлением как в кровоток, так и в мочу. В зависимости от сроков послеоперационного периода это сопровождается изменением скорости реабсорбции мочевины в почках. Заключение. Полученные результаты свидетельствуют, что при РП на фоне тетрахлорметанового гепатита почки не предотвращают прогрессирование эндогенной аммиачной интоксикации, патологическое накопление аммиака и глутамина её клетками, но сохраняют способность принимать участие в регуляции повышенного содержания мочевины в артериальной крови.Mechanical (resection) or toxic (hepatitis) liver damage alone has an ambiguous effect on renal ammonia excretion during development of endogenous ammonia intoxication. The aim. The study investigated the effect of liver resection (LR) on renal ammonia excretion in chronic tetrachlorocarbon (CCl)-induced hepatitis. Methods. Experiments were conducted on 240 mongrel white rats (females) weighing 180-220 g. Chronic hepatitis was induced by subcutaneous injection of 50% solution of carbon tetrachloride (CCl) in olive oil (0.1 ml/100g body weight per day with two two-week breaks between injections 6-7 and 13-14). LR with removal of a part of the left lobe (15-20% of body weight) was performed on the 65th (last) day of CCl injections. The animals were examined on the 3rd, 7th and 14th day after LR or laparotomy (sham operation). Contents of ammonia (AM), glutamine (GN), and urea were measured in the kidney, arterial (AB) and venous ( v.renlis ) blood, and urine. Results. Progression of endogenous ammonia intoxication after LR associated with CCl-induced hepatitis and increased renal excretion of Am involves three mechanisms: 1) excretion of Am that is delivered to kidneys in the free form with AB; 2) stimulation of renal tubule secretion of Am that had formed in kidneys by deamidation of «arterial» Gn; and 3) contrary to rules, partial reabsorption of Am from collecting tubules into the blood. However, this does not eliminate arterial hyperammonemia or prevent accumulation of Am in kidneys. The stimulatory effect of LR in CCl-induced hepatitis on Gn incretion from kidneys to the circulation stops by the 14 day after surgery, and the accompanying increased consumption of Gn from AВ results in Gn accumulation in kidneys. LR stimulates urea excretion with urine and simultaneously activates kidney formation of urea, which further enters the bloodstream and urine. Depending on the postoperative period this is associated with changes in the rate of urea reabsorption in kidneys. Conclusions. In RP associated with CCl-induced hepatitis, kidneys cannot prevent progression of endogenous ammonia intoxication and pathological accumulation of ammonia and glutamine in kidney cells but retain the ability to participate in the regulation of the increased urea level in AB.

CXCR1/CXCR2 antagonist G31P inhibits nephritis in a mouse model of uric acid nephropathy

The prevalence of gout is relatively high worldwide, and many gout patients suffer from uric acid nephropathy (UAN) concomitantly. ELR-CXC chemokines such as CXCL8 and CXCL1 have a elevated expression in UAN. In this research, a mouse UAN model was established for a 12 week duration, and uric acid-related crystals were observed. CXCL8(3–72)K11R/G31P (G31P) is a mutant protein of CXCL8/interleukin 8 (IL-8), which has been reported to have therapeutic efficacy in both inflammatory diseases and malignancies for it acts as a selective antagonist towards CXCR1/CXCR2. In this study, G31P-treated mice showed declined production of the blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level and urine volume in UAN mice compared with G31P-untreated UAN counterparts. In addition, G31P effectively improved renal fibrosis, and reduced uric acid accumulation and leukocyte infiltration in UAN kidneys. Furthermore, the expressions of CXCL1 and CXCL2 were reduced and the activation of NOD-like receptors protein 3 (NLRP3) was inhibited by G31P treatment. This study has demonstrated that G31P attenuates inflammatory progression in chronic UAN, and plays a renoprotective function.

Eucalyptol Inhibits Advanced Glycation End Products‐Induced Disruption of Podocyte Slit Junctions by Suppressing Rage‐Erk‐C‐Myc Signaling Pathway

The maintenance of interpodocyte slit diaphragm is critical in the sieving function of glomerular filtration barrier. Eucalyptol is a natural constituent in aromatic plants with antioxidant properties. This study investigates whether and how eucalyptol inhibits podocyte slit diaphragm malfunction in glucose-exposed podocytes and diabetic mouse kidneys. Podocytes were incubated in media containing 33mm glucose with 1-20μm eucalyptol. The in vivo model employed db/db mice orally administrated with 10mgkg-1 eucalyptol. Nontoxic eucalyptol enhanced podocyte expression of nephrin, podocin, FAT-1, CD2AP, and α-actinin-4 diminished by glucose. Oral administration of eucalyptol augmented the induction of the slit diaphragm proteins, α-actinin-4, and integrin β1 in diabetic kidneys, and ameliorated glomerular fibrosis and foot process effacement. Eucalyptol counteracted the receptor of advanced glycation end products (RAGE) induction in podocytes with glucose or AGE-BSA, and elevated the reduction of the slit diaphragm proteins by AGE-BSA. Eucalyptol attenuated the RAGE induction and AGE accumulation in diabetic kidneys. The blockade of ERK-c-Myc signaling enhanced the nephrin and CD2AP expression downregulated in AGE-exposed podocytes. These results indicate that eucalyptol blocked glucose-induced AGE-RAGE axis and podocyte injury through disturbing RAGE-ERK-c-Myc signaling. Eucalyptol may be a potent agent antagonizing diabetes-associated malformation of interpodocyte slit junction and podocyte actin cytoskeleton.

Effect of Carbohydration on the Theranostic Tracer PSMA I&T.

To investigate the effect of carbohydrate moieties on the pharmacokinetic profile of prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) inhibitors, carbohydrated derivatives of the established PSMA-targeted radiopharmaceutical PSMA I&T were developed and evaluated. As observed for the reference PSMA I&T, the natGa/natLu complexes of the respective galactose-, mannose-, and cellobiose-conjugated analogs showed high PSMA affinity. Carbohydration had almost no effect on the lipophilicity, whereas PSMA-mediated internalization was reduced. The specific binding toward human serum albumin (HSA) decreased from 78.6% for [natLu]PSMA I&T to 19.9% for the natLu-labeled cellobiose derivative. Compared to [68Ga]PSMA I&T, [68Ga]PSMA galactose displayed lower nonspecific tissue and kidney accumulation but also slightly lower tumor uptake in small-animal positron emission tomography (μPET) imaging. Biodistribution studies confirmed reduced unspecific uptake in nontarget tissue and decreased renal accumulation of the metabolically stable [68Ga]PSMA galactose derivative, resulting in overall improved tumor-to-tissue ratios. However, carbohydration has no significant beneficial in vivo effect on the targeting performance of PSMA I&T. Nevertheless, carbohydration expands the repertoire of feasible modifications within the linker area and might be a valuable tool for the future development of PSMA inhibitors with decreased kidney uptake.