P53 mRNA Levels Research Articles

Cisplatin Impact on Kasumi-1 Leukemia: Gene Expression and DNA Damage

Purpose: Leukemia is a type of cancer caused by the uncontrolled proliferation of blood cells. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of cisplatin (CIS), a chemotherapeutic agent used in the treatment of leukemia, on the Kasumi-1 leukemia cell line. Materials and methods: The study measured the effect of CIS on Kasumi-1 cells by calculating IC50 values for cell viability. The mRNA expression levels of apoptosis and cell cycle-related genes were then assessed using Real-Time PCR. In addition, the effects of CIS on DNA damage were investigated using the comet assay. Results: Significant changes in apoptosis and cell cycle-related genes were observed in CIS-treated groups. These included alterations in the mRNA levels of p53, BCL-2, CHECK 1, CDC25C, CDK 6, URG4/URGCP, GADD45A, CCND1, GADD45G, and ATM genes. Comet analysis confirmed CIS's effects on DNA damage. Conclusion: This study aimed to better understand how CIS affects genetic mechanisms in leukemia cells and provide new insights into leukemia treatment. The findings will help us better understand the role of CIS in leukemia treatment and will serve as a valuable reference for future research.

Effects of PPARG on the proliferation, apoptosis, and estrogen secretion in goat granulosa cells

As a member of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) family, PPARG has been reported to be involved in glucolipid metabolism in various species. However, the function of PPARG in estradiol (E2) synthesis, apoptosis, and proliferation in goat ovarian granulosa cells (GCs) is unclear. In this study, we found that goat PPARG was expressed in GCs of all grades of follicles, and localized in the cytoplasm and nucleus of GCs. Transfection of small interfering RNA-PPARG2 (si-PPARG2) decreased E2 synthesis and the abundances of HSD3B and CYP19A1 mRNA and protein. It also promoted cell apoptosis with significant increases in the ratio of BAX/BCL-2 and Caspase3 mRNA and protein. Meanwhile, cell cycle was inhibited by si-PPARG2 transfection, accompanied by decreased mRNA levels of CDK4, CKD6, MYC, CCND1, CCND2, PCNA, and CCNB, increased mRNA level of P53, and decreased protein levels of CDK4, MYC, and CCND1. Furthermore, PPARG interference affected the mRNA and protein abundances of CREB as well as the phosphorylation of CREB but not PKA. In conclusion, our data suggest that PPARG plays an important role in regulating E2 synthesis, cell apoptosis, and proliferation of goat GCs, including the CREB expression and phosphorylation. These results provide evidences for the in-depth study of PPARG in the regulation of goat GCs function.

FBXL19 in endothelial cells protects the heart from influenza A infection by enhancing antiviral immunity and reducing cellular senescence programs.

Influenza A virus (IAV) infection while primarily affecting the lungs, is often associated with cardiovascular complications. However, the mechanisms underlying this association are not fully understood. Here, we investigated the potential role of FBXL19, a member of the Skp1-Cullin-1-F-box family of E3 ubiquitin ligase, in IAV-induced cardiac inflammation. We demonstrated that FBXL19 overexpression in endothelial cells (ECs) reduced viral titers and IAV matrix protein 1 (M1) levels while increasing antiviral gene expression, including interferon (IFN)-α, -β, and -γ and RANTES (regulated on activation normal T cell expressed and secreted) in the cardiac tissue of IAV-infected mice. Moreover, EC-specific overexpression of FBXL19 attenuated the IAV infection-reduced interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3) level without altering its mRNA level and suppressed cardiac inflammation. Furthermore, IAV infection triggered cellular senescence programs in the heart as indicated by the upregulation of p16 and p21 mRNA levels and the downregulation of lamin-B1 levels, which were partially reversed by FBXL19 overexpression in ECs. Our findings indicate that EC-specific overexpression of FBXL19 protects against IAV-induced cardiac damage by enhancing interferon-mediated antiviral signaling, reducing cardiac inflammation, and suppressing cellular senescence programs.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Our study reveals a novel facet of IAV infection, demonstrating that it can trigger cellular senescence within the heart. Intriguingly, upregulation of endothelial FBXL19 promotes host innate immunity, reduces cardiac senescence, and diminishes inflammation. These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting FBXL19 to mitigate IAV-induced cardiovascular complications.

Cycloastragenol Suppresses Hepatic Stellate Cells Activation to Alleviate Liver Fibrosis Through the PI3K/Akt/mTOR Signaling Pathway and Autophagy

Liver fibrosis is a pathological process of various liver diseases, and a large number of studies have shown that liver fibrosis is reversible. Natural products are one of the important sources of drugs for treating liver fibrosis. The present study evaluated the protective effect of cycloastragenol (CAG) on liver fibrosis and the underlying mechanism. The mouse model of liver fibrosis was established by intraperitoneal injection of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) and olive oil. Subsequently, CAG was administrated orally at different doses(2.5 mg/kg/d, 5 mg/kg/d, 10mg/kg/d), and the degree of liver fibrosis was assessed using hematoxylin-eosin, Van Gieson, and Sirius Red staining. Alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, hyaluronic acid, and hydroxyproline levels were detected using biochemical analyses. The mRNA and protein expression levels of α-SMA, LC3, P62, PI3K, Akt, and mTOR in the liver tissue were assessed by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction and western blot, respectively. The expression of fibrogenesis-related marker α-SMA in the liver tissue was assessed using immunofluorescence. As expected, CAG alleviated liver fibrosis and suppressed hepatic stellate cell activation. And then, CAG inhibited autophagy and activated the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. Thus, CAG attenuated CCI4-induced liver fibrosis in mice by inhibiting autophagy and by activating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway.

Integrating network pharmacology and experimental verification to study the mechanism of Polygonum hydropiper total flavonoids against stress-induced gastric mucosal damage

ContextPolygonum hydropiper L. (P. hydropiper) has outstanding clinical efficacy in treating both acute and chronic gastroenteritis. However, the definite mechanism remains unclear. ObjectiveThis study aimed to explore the potential mechanisms of the total flavonoid of P. hydropiper (FPH) in stress-induced gastric mucosal damage (SGMD) rats through a combination of network pharmacology, molecular docking, and animal experiments. MethodsNetwork pharmacology and molecular docking were utilized to predict the potential mechanisms of FPH against SGMD. In experimental studies, SGMD rat models were established using water-immersion restraint stress (WIRS). FPH was administered at doses of 140, 70, and 35 mg/kg, with ranitidine serving as a positive control, through gavage once daily for 6 consecutive days after model establishment. Stomach and serum specimens were analyzed using HE staining, Western blotting, qPCR, and ELISA to investigate the protective mechanism of FPH in SGMD. ResultsThe network pharmacology analysis identified 16 active ingredients and 183 common targets, with potential pathways including PI3K/Akt, MAPK and Keap1/Nrf2. In vivo experiments demonstrated that FPH intervention alleviated SGMD pathological changes, reduced elevated serum IL-6 and TNF-α levels, and enhanced SOD and GSH activity in rats. Additionally, FPH increased the protein expression of p62, Nrf2, HO-1, PI3K, and p-Akt, along with mRNA levels of Nrf2, p62, and HO-1. ConclusionsFPH exerts a gastric mucosal protective effect by upregulating antioxidant gene expression through the PI3K/Akt and Keap1/Nrf2 pathways. This study provides an experimental basis for the potential clinical treatment of SGMD with the traditional Chinese medicine P. hydropiper.

Dipsacoside B Attenuates Atherosclerosis by Promoting Autophagy to Inhibit Macrophage Lipid Accumulation.

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by lipid accumulation and foam cell formation in the arterial wall. Promoting macrophage autophagy has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy against atherosclerosis. Dipsacoside B (DB) is an oleanane-type pentacyclic triterpenoid saponin extracted from Lonicerae flos with potential anti-atherosclerotic properties. In this study, we investigated the effects of DB on atherosclerosis progression in ApoE-/- mice fed a high-fat diet and explored the underlying mechanisms in oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL)-induced foam cells. DB treatment significantly reduced atherosclerotic lesion size, improved plaque stability, and regulated lipid metabolism without impairing liver and kidney function in ApoE-/- mice. In vitro studies revealed that DB dose-dependently inhibited ox-LDL internalization and intracellular lipid accumulation in RAW264.7 macrophages. Mechanistically, DB induced autophagy, as evidenced by increased autophagosome formation and upregulated expression of autophagy markers LC3-II and p62 both in vivo and in vitro. Inhibition of autophagy by chloroquine abolished the antiatherosclerotic and pro-autophagic effects of DB. Furthermore, DB treatment increased LC3-II and p62 mRNA levels, suggesting transcriptional regulation of autophagy. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that DB exerts anti-atherosclerotic effects by inhibiting foam cell formation via autophagy induction, providing new insights into the pharmacological actions of DB and its potential as a therapeutic agent against atherosclerosis.

Chromium Affects Mitochondrial Function, Leading to Apoptosis and Autophagy in Turtle Primary Hepatocytes.

Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)), a pervasive industrial contaminant, is highly toxic to both humans and animals. However, its effects on turtles are largely unexplored. Our study aimed to investigate the toxic effects of Cr(VI) on the Reeves' turtles (Mauremys reevesii) primary hepatocytes. We exposed hepatocytes to two concentrations (25 μM and 50 μM) of Cr(VI) for 24 h. The results showed that compared to controls, Cr(VI)-treated cells showed elevated antioxidant enzyme activity (catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD)) and increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. Adenosine triphosphatae (ATP) levels decreased, indicating mitochondrial dysfunction. Additionally, we found significant changes in mitochondrial dynamics related genes, with downregulation of mitofusin 2 (Mfn2) and silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1) and a decrease in sirtuin 3 (SIRT3) and tumor protein 53 (p53) mRNA levels. Annexin V-FITC fluorescence staining-positive cells increased with higher Cr(VI) concentrations, marked by elevated bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax) and cysteinyl aspartate specific proteinase (Caspase3) mRNA levels and reduced B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl2) expression. Autophagy-related genes were also affected, with increased microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3-I), microtubule-associated protein light chain 3II (LC3-II), unc-51-like autophagy-activating kinase 1 (ULK1), and sequestosome 1 (p62/SQSTM1) mRNA levels and decreased mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and Beclin1 expression. Taken together, Cr(VI) promotes cell apoptosis and autophagy in turtle hepatocytes by inducing oxidative stress and disrupting mitochondrial function. These findings highlight the serious health risks posed by Cr(VI) pollution and emphasize the need for protecting wild turtle populations.

CMTM3 Suppresses Proliferation and Osteogenic Transdifferentiation of C2C12 Myoblasts through p53 Upregulation.

CKLF-like MARVEL transmembrane domain-containing 3 (CMTM3), a member of the CMTM family that is closely related to tumor occurrence and progression, plays crucial roles in the immune system, cardiovascular system, and male reproductive system. Recently, CMTM3 has emerged as a potential target for treating diseases related to bone formation. However, additional studies are needed to understand the mechanisms by which CMTM3 regulates the process of osteogenic differentiation. In this study, we observed a significant downregulation of Cmtm3 expression during the transdifferentiation of C2C12 myoblasts into osteoblasts induced by BMP4. Cmtm3 overexpression suppressed proliferation and osteogenic differentiation in BMP4-induced C2C12 cells, whereas its knockdown conversely facilitated the process. Mechanistically, Cmtm3 overexpression upregulated both the protein and mRNA levels of p53 and p21. Conversely, Cmtm3 knockdown exerted the opposite effects. Additionally, we found that Cmtm3 interacts with p53 and increases protein stability by inhibiting proteasome-mediated ubiquitination and degradation. Notably, Trp53 downregulation abrogated the inhibitory effect of Cmtm3 on BMP4-induced proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of C2C12 myoblasts. Collectively, our findings provide key insights into the role of CMTM3 in regulating myoblast proliferation and transdifferentiation into osteoblasts, highlighting its significance in osteogenesis research.

Zhuyu Pills regulate p53/SLC7A11 signaling pathway-mediated oxidative damage and ferroptosis to treat atherosclerosis

This article aims to investigate the effect of Zhuyu Pills on atherosclerosis(AS) and decipher the underlying mechanism. The mouse model of AS was established by feeding with a high-fat diet for 12 weeks. The 50 successfully modeled mice with the apolipoprotein E knockout(ApoE~(-/-)) were assigned by the random number table method into 5 groups(n=10): model, low-, medium-, and high-dose(130.54, 261.08, 522.16 mg·kg~(-1), respectively) Zhuyu Pills, and atorvastatin calcium(10.40 mg·kg~(-1)). Ten C57BL/6J mice were selected as the blank group. The blank group and model group were administrated with an equal volume of normal saline, and other groups were administrated with corresponding drugs once a day for 12 weeks. At the end of drug intervention, hematoxylin-eosin(HE) staining was employed to observe the pathological changes of fat in the aorta, liver, and epididymis of mice, and the proportion of aortic plaque area, fat area in epididymis, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease activity score(NAS) were calculated. Lipid and collagen deposition in the aorta was observed by oil red O staining and Masson staining, respectively, and the proportions of lipid and collagen deposition areas were calculated. The serum levels of superoxide dismutase(SOD), malondialdehyde(MDA), glutathione peroxidase(GSH-Px), and iron ion were measured by colorimetry. The expression of cyclooxygenase 2(COX2), ferritin heavy chain 1(FTH1), cystine/glutamate reverse transporter solute carrier family 7 member 11(SLC7A11), and glutathione peroxidase 4(GPX4) in the aorta was detected by the immunofluorescence assay. The level of tumor protein 53(p53) in the aorta was detected by immunohistochemistry. The protein levels of p53 and SLC7A11 in the aorta were determined by Western blot. The mRNA levels of p53, SLC7A11, GPX4, FTH1, prostaglandin G/H synthase 2(PTGS2), and reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase 1(NOX1) in mouse aorta were determined by real-time PCR. The results showed that compared with the blank group, the model group showcased enlarged aortic plaque area, increased collagen fiber deposition, liver lipid deposition, and lipid droplets, and enlarged epididymal adipocytes. In addition, the modeling elevated the levels of iron ion and MDA and lowered the levels of SOD and GSH-Px in the serum, promoted the expression of p53 and COX2, down-regulated the protein and mRNA levels of FTH1, SLC7A11, and GPX4, and up-regulated the mRNA levels of PTGS2 and NOX1 in the aorta. Compared with the model group, low-, medium-, and high-dose Zhuyu Pills and atorvastatin calcium reduced the aortic plaque area, collagen deposition, liver lipid deposition, lipid droplets, and epididymal adipocyte volume, lowered the levels of iron ion and MDA and elevated the levels of SOD and GSH-Px in the serum, inhibited the expression of p53 and COX2, up-regulated the protein and mRNA levels of FTH1, SLC7A11, and GPX4, and down-regulated the mRNA levels of PTGS2 and NOX1 in the aorta. In conclusion, Zhuyu Pills exert definite therapeutic effect on aortic plaque in AS mice by regulating the p53/SLC7A11 signaling pathway to alleviate oxidative damage and inhibit ferroptosis.

Effects of intermittent senolytic therapy on bone metabolism in postmenopausal women: a phase 2 randomized controlled trial.

Preclinical evidence demonstrates that senescent cells accumulate with aging and that senolytics delay multiple age-related morbidities, including bone loss. Thus, we conducted a phase 2 randomized controlled trial of intermittent administration of the senolytic combination dasatinib plus quercetin (D + Q) in postmenopausal women (n = 60 participants). The primary endpoint, percentage changes at 20 weeks in the bone resorption marker C-terminal telopeptide of type 1 collagen (CTx), did not differ between groups (median (interquartile range), D + Q -4.1% (-13.2, 2.6), control -7.7% (-20.1, 14.3); P = 0.611). The secondary endpoint, percentage changes in the bone formation marker procollagen type 1 N-terminal propeptide (P1NP), increased significantly (relative to control) in the D + Q group at both 2 weeks (+16%, P = 0.020) and 4 weeks (+16%, P = 0.024), but was not different from control at 20 weeks (-9%, P = 0.149). No serious adverse events were observed. In exploratory analyses, the skeletal response to D + Q was driven principally by women with a high senescent cell burden (highest tertile for T cell p16 (also known as CDKN2A) mRNA levels) in which D + Q concomitantly increased P1NP (+34%, P = 0.035) and reduced CTx (-11%, P = 0.049) at 2 weeks, and increased radius bone mineral density (+2.7%, P = 0.004) at 20 weeks. Thus, intermittent D + Q treatment did not reduce bone resorption in the overall group of postmenopausal women. However, our exploratory analyses indicate that further studies are needed testing the hypothesis that the underlying senescent cell burden may dictate the clinical response to senolytics. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04313634 .

Piracetam mitigates nephrotoxicity induced by cisplatin via the AMPK-mediated PI3K/Akt and MAPK/JNK/ERK signaling pathways

AimsCisplatin (CDDP) is commonly employed as an antineoplastic agent, but its use is significantly limited by the occurrence of dose-dependent nephrotoxicity, the detailed mechanisms of which remain unclear. This research is aimed to explore the molecular mechanisms of Piracetam (PIR)’s protective effects on nephrotoxicity resulting from CDDP exposure and to elucidate the mechanisms responsible for these effects. Main methodsPIR was given in dosages of 100 and 300 mg/kg body weight for a duration of 15 days; concurrently, on the last day, a single 10 mg/kg dose of CDDP was delivered via intraperitoneal injection. Forty-eight hours post-CDDP injection, the animals were sacrificed to assess nephrotoxicity. Blood samples and renal tissues were taken for biochemical and histopathological investigations. Serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) were measured. AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), caspase-9 and nuclear factor kappa b p65 (NF-κB p65) were assessed by immunohistochemistry method. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) analysis was employed to determine cytochrome c (Cyt. c), Bcl-2-associated X-protein (BAX), caspase-3, nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 (Nrf2), Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), superoxide dismutase (SOD), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), myeloperoxidase (MPO), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) levels in renal tissue homogenates. The mRNA levels of tumor protein P53 (TP53), phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K), protein kinase B (Akt), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK), extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK), and c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK) were tested by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Additionally, histopathological evaluations of the renal tissues and the binding affinity of PIR to AMPK by molecular docking were also performed. Key findingsPre-treatment with PIR enhanced renal function markers such as urea and creatinine, mitigated histological damage, and diminished inflammatory cell presence in renal tubules. PIR demonstrated antioxidant effects by reestablishing the equilibrium between pro-oxidants and antioxidants such as MPO, HO-1, Nrf2, as well as SOD. Furthermore, PIR inhibited the inflammatory pathways through the MAPK/NF-κB pathway. Additionally, PIR counteracted the CDDP-induced decline in PI3K/Akt activity and hindered caspase-dependent apoptotic processes. SignificanceIn summary, PIR appears to be an effective therapeutic strategy for reducing CDDP-induced nephrotoxicity, attributed to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic mechanisms. Consequently, PIR may serve as a complementary treatment alongside CDDP to alleviate nephrotoxicity associated with CDDP.

Arsenic Nanoparticles Trigger Apoptosis via Anoikis Induction in OECM-1 Cells.

Arsenic compounds have been used as therapeutic alternatives for several diseases including cancer. In the following work, we obtained arsenic nanoparticles (AsNPs) produced by an anaerobic bacterium from the Salar de Ascotán, in northern Chile, and evaluated their effects on the human oral squamous carcinoma cell line OECM-1. Resazurin reduction assays were carried out on these cells using 1-100 µM of AsNPs, finding a concentration-dependent reduction in cell viability that was not observed for the non-tumoral gastric mucosa-derived cell line GES-1. To establish if these effects were associated with apoptosis induction, markers like Bcl2, Bax, and cleaved caspase 3 were analyzed via Western blot, executor caspases 3/7 via luminometry, and DNA fragmentation was analyzed by TUNEL assay, using 100 µM cisplatin as a positive control. OECM-1 cells treated with AsNPs showed an induction of both extrinsic and intrinsic apoptotic pathways, which can be explained by a significant decrease in P-Akt/Akt and P-ERK/ERK relative protein ratios, and an increase in both PTEN and p53 mRNA levels and Bit-1 relative protein levels. These results suggest a prospective mechanism of action for AsNPs that involves a potential interaction with extracellular matrix (ECM) components that reduces cell attachment and subsequently triggers anoikis, an anchorage-dependent type of apoptosis.

USP11 modulates mitotic progression and senescence by regulating the p53-p21 axis through MDM2 deubiquitination

USP11 is overexpressed in colorectal cancer (CRC) and breast cancer tissues compared to normal tissues, suggesting a role in promoting cell proliferation and inhibiting cell death. In this study, we observed that depleting USP11 inhibits cell proliferation and delays cell cycle progression. This depletion leads to increased p53 protein levels due to an extended half-life, resulting in elevated p21 mRNA levels in a p53-dependent manner. The rise in p53 protein upon USP11 depletion is linked to a reduced half-life of MDM2, a known E3 ligase for p53, via enhanced polyubiquitination of MDM2. These findings indicate that USP11 might act as a deubiquitinase for MDM2, regulating the MDM2-p53-p21 axis. Additionally, USP11 depletion promotes the induction of senescent cells in a manner dependent on its deubiquitinase activity. Our findings provide insights into the physiological significance of high USP11 expression in primary tumors and its reduction in senescent cells, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target.

Modulation of p53 and p21 Genes Expression in Cardiovascular Cultured Cells

This study explores the role of the p53 and p21 genes, central to the cell cycle arrest pathway, in cardiovascular diseases, focusing on their modulation by endocannabinoid ligands. Previous research has established the significance of CNR1 in cardiovascular regulation; however, its interaction with p53 pathways remains underexplored. We aimed to investigate the effects of Anandamide and Rimbonant on the expression levels of p53 and p21 in smooth muscle cells at both mRNA and protein levels. Our results indicate that Anandamide significantly increases p53 mRNA (3.191±0.38, Pv≤0.01) and protein (31.37±2.60) levels, while Rimbonant shows a decrease after 1 hour of treatment. Similarly, p21 expression was upregulated by Anandamide and downregulated by Rimbonant. These findings suggest that manipulating p53 activity through CNR1 ligands could potentially mitigate cardiovascular disease risks, warranting further investigation into their pharmacological applications. Highlights: Gene Modulation: Anandamide boosts p53 and p21 expression. Rimbonant Effects: Rimbonant reduces these gene levels. Therapeutic Potential: Indicates possibilities for cardiovascular disease treatment. Keywords: P53 Gene, Cardiovascular Disease, Endocannabinoids, Anandamide, Rimbonant

Application of Repetitive Sequences in Fish Cell Depletion as a Target for the CRISPR/Cas9 System.

Specific cell depletion is a common means to study the physiological function of cell lineages and tissue regeneration. However, 100% depletion is difficult to achieve with existing cell depletion strategies. With the increasing maturity of CRISPR/Cas9 technology, it is increasingly used for the depletion of various cells. However, even with this technology, it is difficult to complete the depletion of specific gene knockout cells. For this reason, cell depletion with the use of repetitive sequences as the target of CRISPR/Cas9 was explored using zebrafish. All cells were used as the target cells for the first set of experiments. The results showed that injection of a mixture of DANA-gRNA and Cas9 mRNA into zygotes resulted in substantial cell apoptosis. Cells are almost invisible in the embryonic animal pole during the dome stage. The activities of the caspase-3 and caspase-9 proteins and the mRNA level of the P53 gene were significantly increased. Then, primordial germ cells (PGCs) in embryos were used as the target cells in subsequent experiments. To specifically knock out PGCs, we injected the mix of DANA-gRNA, pkop: Cas9 plasmid (the kop promotor allows Cas9 expression only in PGCs), and eGFP-nos3'UTR mRNA into zebrafish fertilized eggs. The results revealed that the activity of the caspase-3 protein was significantly increased, and the mRNA levels of P53, ku70, and ku80 were significantly upregulated, while the number of PGCs decreased gradually. Few PGCs labeled with GFP could be seen 20h post-fertilization (hpf), and no PGCs could be seen at the germinal ridge 24 hpf. Therefore, the combination of CRISPR/Cas9 technology and repetitive sequences can achieve efficient cell depletion regardless of whether there is generalized expression or expression in specific cells. These results indicate that it is feasible to eliminate cells by using repeat sequences as CRISPR/Cas9 system target sites.

Astragaloside IV protects against autoimmune myasthenia gravis in rats via regulation of mitophagy and apoptosis.

Astragaloside IV (AS‑IV) has various pharmacological effects, including antioxidant and immunoregulatory properties, which can improve myasthenia gravis (MG) symptoms. However, the potential mechanism underlying the effects of AS‑IV on MG remains to be elucidated. The present study aimed to investigate whether AS‑IV has a therapeutic effect on MG and its potential mechanism of action. By subcutaneously immunizing rats with R97‑116 peptide, an experimental autoimmune (EA) MG rat model was established. AS‑IV (40 or 80 mg/kg/day) treatment was then applied for 28 days after modeling. The results demonstrated that AS‑IV significantly ameliorated the weight loss, Lennon score and pathological changes in the gastrocnemius muscle of EAMG rats compared with the model group. Additionally, the levels of acetylcholine receptor antibody (AChR‑Ab) were significantly decreased, whereas mitochondrial function [ATPase and cytochrome c (Cyt‑C) oxidase activities] and ultrastructure were improved in the AS‑IV treated rats. Moreover, the mRNA and protein expression levels of phosphatase and tensin homolog‑induced putative kinase 1, Parkin, LC3II and Bcl‑2, key signaling molecules for mitophagy and apoptosis, were upregulated, whereas the mRNA and protein expression levels of p62, Cyt‑C, Bax, caspase 3 and caspase 9 were downregulated following AS‑IV intervention. In conclusion, AS‑IV may protect against EAMG in a rat model by modulating mitophagy and apoptosis. These findings indicated the potential mechanism underlying the effects of AS‑IV on MG and provided novel insights into treatment strategies for MG.

Vincamine alleviates intrahepatic cholestasis in rats through modulation of NF-kB/PDGF/klf6/PPARγ and PI3K/Akt pathways

The defect in the hepatobiliary transport system results in an impairment of bile flow, leading to accumulation of toxic compounds with subsequent liver disorders. Vincamine, a plant indole alkaloid that is utilized as a dietary supplement, has been known for its promising pharmacological activities. For the first time, the present study was planned to estimate, at the molecular level, the potentiality of vincamine against alfa-naphthyl isothiocyanate (ANIT)-induced hepatic cholestasis. Liver function tests were analyzed. Hepatic activity of SOD and levels of GSH and MDA were assessed. Hepatic contents of bax, bcl2, NF-kB, PPARγ, catalase, heme-oxygenase-1, NTCP, and BSEP were evaluated using ELISA. mRNA levels of NF-kB, IL-1β, IL-6, TNFα, PDGF, klf6, PPARγ, and P53 were examined using qRT-PCR. PI3K, Akt and cleaved caspase-3 proteins were assessed using western blotting. Histopathological analyses were performed using hematoxylin & eosin staining. ANIT-induced hepatic cholestasis elevated liver function tests, including AST, ALT, GGT, ALP, and total bilirubin. ANIT reduced the protein expression of NTCP and BSEP hepatic transporters. It induced the expression of the inflammatory genes, TNFα, IL-6, IL-1β, and PDGF, and the expression of NF-kB at the genetic and protein level and suppressed the anti-inflammatory genes, klf6 and PPARγ. Also, antioxidant markers were reduced during ANIT induction such as GSH, SOD, catalase, heme-oxygenase-1 and PI3K/Akt pathway, while MDA levels were elevated. Furthermore, the expression of P53 gene, bax and cleaved caspase 3 proteins were activated, while bcl2 was inhibited. Also, the histopathological analysis showed degeneration of hepatocytes and inflammatory cellular infiltrates. However, vincamine treatment modulated all these markers. It improved liver function tests. It inhibited the expression of NF-kB, TNFα, IL-6, IL-1β and PDGF and activated the expression of klf6 and PPARγ. Furthermore, vincamine reduced MDA levels and induced GSH, SOD, catalase, heme-oxygenase-1 and PI3K/Akt pathway. Additionally, it inhibited expression of P53 gene, bax and cleaved caspase 3 proteins. More interestingly, vincamine showed better outcomes on the hepatic histopathological analysis and improved the alterations induced by ANIT. Vincamine alleviated hepatic dysfunction during ANIT-induced intrahepatic cholestasis through its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant efficacies by the modulation of NF-kB/PDGF/klf6/PPARγ and PI3K/Akt pathways.

Fusion with ARRDC1 or CD63: A Strategy to Enhance p53 Loading into Extracellular Vesicles for Tumor Suppression.

Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) have emerged as promising therapeutic agents and drug delivery vehicles. Targeted modification of sEVs and their contents using genetic modification strategies is one of the most popular methods. This study investigated the effects of p53 fusion with arrestin domain-containing protein 1 (ARRDC1) and CD63 on the generation of sEVs, p53 loading efficiency, and therapeutic efficacy. Overexpression of either ARRDC1-p53 (ARP) or CD63-p53 (CDP) significantly elevated p53 mRNA and protein levels. The incorporation of ARRDC1 and CD63 significantly enhanced HEK293T-sEV biogenesis, evidenced by significant increases in sEV-associated proteins TSG101 and LAMP1, resulting in a boost in sEV production. Importantly, fusion with ARRDC1 or CD63 substantially increased the efficiency of loading both p53 fusion proteins and its mRNA into sEVs. sEVs equipped with ARP or CDP significantly enhanced the enrichment of p53 fusion proteins and mRNA in p53-null H1299 cells, resulting in a marked increase in apoptosis and a reduction in cell proliferation, with ARP-sEVs demonstrating greater effectiveness than CDP-sEVs. These findings underscore the enhanced functionality of ARRDC1- and CD63-modified sEVs, emphasizing the potential of genetic modifications in sEV-based therapies for targeted cancer treatment.

A small molecule compound 759 inhibits the wnt/beta-catenin signaling pathway via increasing the Axin protein stability.

Wnt/β-catenin signaling plays important role in cancers. Compound 759 is one of the compounds previously screened to identify inhibitors of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in A549 cells [Lee et al. in Bioorg Med Chem Lett 20:5900-5904, 2010]. However, the mechanism by which Compound 759 induces the inhibition of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway remains unknown. In our study, we employed various assays to comprehensively evaluate the effects of Compound 759 on lung cancer cells. Our results demonstrated that Compound 759 significantly suppressed cell proliferation and Wnt3a-induced Topflash activity and arrested the cell cycle at the G1 stage. Changes in Wnt/β-catenin signaling-related protein expression, gene activity, and protein stability including Axin, and p21, were achieved through western blot and qRT-PCR analysis. Compound 759 treatment upregulated the mRNA level of p21 and increased Axin protein levels without altering the mRNA expression in A549 cells. Co-treatment of Wnt3a and varying doses of Compound 759 dose-dependently increased the amounts of Axin1 in the cytosol and inhibited β-catenin translocation into the nucleus. Moreover, Compound 759 reduced tumor size and weight in the A549 cell-induced tumor growth in the in vivo tumor xenograft mouse model. Our findings indicate that Compound 759 exhibits potential anti-cancer activity by inhibiting the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway through the increase of Axin1 protein stability.

Ameliorative mechanism of dietary vitamin d and magnesium on newborn’s pulmonary toxicity induced by cadmium

Cadmium (Cd) exposure in mothers can cause respiratory issues in newborns, but the exact toxicity mechanisms are not fully understood. Vitamin D deficiency in Cd-exposed rats is associated with increased cadmium accumulation in tissues. Finding a cost-effective medication that is vital for the body while also reducing the effects of poisoning is crucial in treating poisonings. To investigate the mechanisms of Cd-induced lung toxicity, we examined the impact of prolonged Cd exposure in female rats before pregnancy on newborn lung health, focusing on sera TNF-α level, lung P53, Foxo1 mRNA, and lung VEGF, and BMP-4 protein level. A total of 50 rats were divided into control, Cd, Cd+Vitamin D, Cd+Mg, and Cd + Vitamin D+Mg groups. Cd exposure resulted in higher serum TNF-α levels and a significant rise in P53 mRNA levels. Additionally, the occurrence of hemorrhage, inflammatory cell infiltration, and thickening of alveolar walls decreased following treatment with vitamin D + Mg. Although Cd did not affect the newborns' body weight, it did impair their lung function. These findings suggest that the Cd-induced increase in the P53 gene expression could be alleviated by vitamin D and Mg, along with the elevation of VEGF and BMP-4 proteins and Foxo1 gene expression. The study revealed that environmental toxins can sometimes harm molecules and proteins, leading to damage in critical fetal tissues. However, these issues can be mitigated through essential supplements. Structured AbstractThe increasing role of Cd in the erratic behavior of numerous biological and molecular entities, notably the development of fetal lung tissue, has made it beneficial to investigate the possible adverse effects of Cd exposure in pregnant mothers and fetal organ development, where instinctive molecular events occur. Researchers are encouraged to create new aspects of medications to reduce clinical symptoms and improve the quality of life due to exposure to metal toxins, particularly in industrialized countries. The present study aimed to evaluate histopathological and molecular modifications of fetal lungs caused by maternal Cd toxicosis and evaluate the possible ameliorating effects of vitamin D and Mg alone and in combination with fetal lung developmental abnormalities, followed by maternal toxin induction, which can be generalized to humans.Fifty female Wistar rats were purchased from the Pasteur Institute of Iran. To induce the model, cadmium at a dose of 2 mg/kg body weight was injected intraperitoneally into the female rats over 28 days before mating (5 days after injection in a week). Afterward, the female rats were randomly divided into type IV polycarbonate cages and mated with healthy male rats. The pregnancy was confirmed by observation of the vaginal plaque, which was subsequently observed, and the number of days of embryo formation was calculated. Subsequently, the pregnant rats were assigned to the following groups and received PBS, vitamin D, Mg, or vitamin D + Mg. At the end of the nine-day treatment period (the 6th day of pregnancy to the 14th day), the neonates were born vaginally, and their body weight and mortality were recorded. The P53 and Foxo1 gene expression levels in the left and right lobes of the homogenized lungs of the newborns in each group were assessed. TNF-alpha was detected in the sera collected from the newborns by ELISA. The isolated left and right lung tissues were homogenized in radioimmunoprecipitation assay (RIPA) buffer and the superior phase was collected to determine the total protein content by Lowry's method and VEGF and BMP-4 protein levels. The obtained lung samples from newborn rats were fixed in a 10% formalin solution for tissue processing. The fixed samples were embedded in paraffin, and serial paraffin sections were prepared for hematoxylin and eosin staining. This study is the first to examine how maternal Cd exposure affects fetal lung development and to estimate the impact of prescribing Mg and vitamin D during pregnancy. The present study assessed the effects of a repeated dose of Cd for 4 weeks before pregnancy on the lung development of newborn rats born to mothers treated with vitamin D and Mg. The results showed that the P53 gene was overexpressed in the model group, while Foxo1 gene expression was downregulated, negatively impacting the lung structure and developmental indices of the fetuses. Therefore, the intake of vitamin D and Mg may contribute to improving the various stages of Cd-induced lung injury by modulating lung inflammation and mucosal secretion while also positively influencing the number of surviving offspring.