Receptor Protein Expression Research Articles

Associations between androgen receptor and tyrosine phosphorylated protein expressions in rat prostate gland.

Mammalian prostate gland plays a role in alkaline substance synthesis including proteins. These functions are depending on glandular maturation and testosterone-androgen receptor (AR) dependent actions. Since tyrosine phosphorylated (TyrPho) proteins, also important for secreting pathways, have been localized in the androgen dependent organs, association between AR and TyrPho protein expressions in prostate is still unknown. This study aimed to investigate the changes of such proteins in prostate gland of male castrated rats. Nine prepubertal and adult twenty-two adult male rats were divided into the prepubertal (Pre, n=9), Sham (n=6), castrate for 3 (Cas-3, n=8) and for 7 (Cas-7, n=8) days groups, respectively. Serum testosterone level was determined. Histology and AR localization in each prostatic lobe were observed. TyrPho and AR protein expressions were also examined. The results showed undetectable testosterone level and low AR expression in Pre and Cas prostates with the decreased size. Few histopathologies were found in Cas groups. In ventral lobe, a Tyrpho protein was increased at the 48 kDa but the 52, 33, and 26 kDas were decreased in the Pre and Cas groups. For dorsolateral lobe, they were decreased at 33 and 30 kDas in Pre group and only 30 kDa was decreased in Cas-3 group. In the anterior lobe, the TyrPho proteins 57, 49, 39, 30, and 26 kDas were decreased in Pre group while 57, 30, and 26 kDas were decreased in Cas-3 group. In conclusion, the alterations of testosterone level and AR expressions associate with TyrPho protein expressions in prostate gland during development.

Targeting Estrogen Receptor Beta Ameliorates Diminished Ovarian Reserve via Suppression of the FOXO3a/Autophagy Pathway.

Diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) refers to a decrease in the number and/or quality of oocytes, leading to infertility, poor ovarian response and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Currently, the pathogenesis of DOR is largely unknown, and the efficacy of existing therapeutic methods is limited. Therefore, in-depth exploration of the mechanism underlying DOR is highly important for identifying molecular therapeutic targets for DOR. Our study showed that estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) mRNA and protein expression was upregulated in granulosa cells (GCs) from patients with DOR and in the ovaries of DOR model mice. Mechanistically, elevated ERβ promotes forkhead transcription factor family 3a (FOXO3a) expression, which contributes to autophagic activation in GCs. Activation of FOXO3a/autophagy signalling leads to decreased cell proliferation and increased cell apoptosis and ultimately leads to DOR. In a cyclophosphamide (Cy)-induced DOR mouse model, treatment with PHTPP, a selective ERβ antagonist, rescued fertility by restoring normal sex hormone secretion, estrus cycle duration, follicle development, oocyte quality and litter size. Taken together, these findings reveal a pathological mechanism of DOR based on ERβ overexpression and identify PHTPP as a potential therapeutic agent for DOR.

Expression of oestrogen and progesterone receptor and intermediate filament proteins in the oviduct of mares with endometrosis

Equine endometrosis is one of the major causes of equine infertility, in the course of which periglandular fibrosis signs occur in the endometrium. As an oviduct is a key place of early embryo development, we hypothesized that loss of contact between mucosal cells and perturbation in hormonal action may coexist in the uterus and oviducts. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the expression of the intermediate filaments (vimentin and desmin) as well as the estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) and progesterone receptor A (PRA) in the stroma and epithelia of endometrium and oviduct in healthy mares and these with endometrosis. Out of 56 culled-in slaughterhouse mare endometrium samples were annotated in two groups (i) healthy endometrium (n=26) and endometrium with signs of moderate and severe endometrosis (n=20). The expression of vimentin, desmin, ERα, and PRA was investigated immunohistochemically and compared between the above groups as well as between the phase of the estrous cycle. The expression of both vimentin and desmin was higher in the endometrial stroma of endometrosis group compared to healthy endometrium. The expression of ERα was higher in the healthy endometrial stroma and luminal epithelium during the follicular phase than luteal, however, no differences were noted in endometrium of mares with endometrosis. Moreover, PRA expression was significantly higher in the stoma oviduct during the follicular phase than luteal. It seems possible that mucosal cells through their altered interactions may support the occurrence of moderate and severe endometrosis. In addition, the oviduct appears to be less sensitive to hormonal changes than the uterus. The changed expression of intermediate filaments and steroid hormones may be some of the leading factors which can contribute to the oviduct functional status in endometrosis.

SERCA2 dysfunction triggers hypertension by interrupting mitochondrial homeostasis and provoking oxidative stress

Background and aimSarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase 2 (SERCA2) is critical in maintaining Ca2+ homeostasis. The cysteine 674 (C674) is the key redox regulatory cysteine in regulating SERCA2 activity, which is irreversibly oxidized in the renal cortex of hypertensive mice. We have reported that the substitution of C674 by serine causes SERCA2 dysfunction and increases blood pressure by induction of endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS). This study is to explore whether the dysfunction of SERCA2 causes hypertension by interrupting mitochondrial homeostasis and inducing oxidative stress. Methods & resultsWe used heterozygous SERCA2 C674S gene mutation knock-in (SKI) mice, where one copy of C674 was substituted by serine to represent partial C674 oxidation. In renal proximal tubule (RPT) cells, the substitution of C674 by serine decreased mitochondrial Ca2+ content, increased mitochondrial membrane potential, ATP content, and reactive oxygen species (ROS), which could be reversed by ERS inhibitor 4-phenylbutyric acid or SERCA2 agonist CDN1163. In SKI RPT cells, the redox modulator Tempol alleviated oxidative stress, downregulated the protein expression of ERS markers and soluble epoxide hydrolase, upregulated the protein expression of dopamine D1 receptor, and reduced Na+/K+- ATPase activity. In SKI mice, SERCA2 agonists CDN1163 and [6]-Gingerol, or the redox modulator Tempol increased urine output and lowered blood pressure. ConclusionThe irreversible oxidation of C674 is not only an indicator of increased ROS, but also further inducing oxidative stress to cause hypertension. Activation of SERCA2 or inhibition of oxidative stress is beneficial to alleviate hypertension caused by SERCA2 dysfunction.

Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of 2-(naphthalen-1-yloxy)-N-phenylacetamide derivatives as TRPM4 inhibitors for the treatment of prostate cancer

Transient receptor potential melastatin 4 (TRPM4) is considered to be a potential target for cancer and other human diseases. Herein, a series of 2-(naphthalen-1-yloxy)-N-phenylacetamide derivatives were designed and synthesized as new TRPM4 inhibitors, aiming to improve cellular potency. One of the most promising compounds, 7d (ZX08903), displayed promising antiproliferative activity against prostate cancer cell lines. 7d also suppressed colony formation and the expression of androgen receptor (AR) protein in prostate cancer cells. Furthermore, 7d can concentration-dependently induce cell apoptosis in prostate cancer cells. Collectively, these findings indicated that compound 7d may serve as a promising lead compound for further anticancer drug development.

Ezetimibe ameliorates cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity: A novel therapeutic approach via modulating AMPK/Nrf2/TXNIP signaling.

Cisplatin (Cis) is among the most powerful antineoplastic medications, nevertheless, its serious side effects; particularly nephrotoxicity designates a major concern. Previous studies reported that ezetimibe (Eze), a well-known antihyperlipidemic drug, exerts additional trivial pharmacological effects. In this work, we displayed Eze as an intriguing protective candidate in a cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity rat model through AMPK activation. Eze (10 mg/kg, p.o.) was administered for two weeks and Cis (10 mg/kg, i.p.) was administered on the 10th day to induce nephrotoxicity in male Wistar rats. Treatment with Eze greatly augmented the phosphorylation of adenosine 5'-monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and the antioxidant regulator; nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), thus, mitigating oxidative injury through induction of the antioxidant enzymes, such as heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and glutathione reductase (GR). As well, Eze relieved inflammation by reducing protein expression of thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) and nucleotide-binding domain-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3), which led to a decrease in the release of caspase-1, in addition to, the inflammatory markers IL-18and IL-1 β. Besides, Eze ameliorated apoptosis in the renal cells through inhibiting the phosphorylated Apoptosis signal-regulating kinase-1(p-ASK1), caspase-3 and reducing Bax/Bcl2ratio. Correspondingly, histopathological examination corroborated the previous biochemical findings. Collectively, Eze exerts significant renal protection against Cis-induced nephrotoxicity via antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic pathways that are probably mediated, at least partly, via activating AMPK/Nrf2/HO-1 pathway and conquering both TXNIP/NLRP3 inflammasome and TXNIP/ASK1 signaling pathways. To confirm the protective effect of Eze via AMPK-activation, an AMPK-inhibitor, dorsomorphin (Dors), when co-administered with Eze abolished its protective effect.

A Mechanistic Review on How Berberine Use Combats Diabetes and Related Complications: Molecular, Cellular, and Metabolic Effects.

Berberine (BBR) is an isoquinoline alkaloid that can be extracted from herbs such as Coptis, Phellodendron, and Berberis. BBR has been widely used as a folk medicine to treat various disorders. It is a multi-target drug with multiple mechanisms. Studies have shown that it has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and can also adjust intestinal microbial flora. This review focused on the promising antidiabetic effects of BBR in several cellular, animal, and clinical studies. Based on previous research, BBR significantly reduced levels of fasting blood glucose, hemoglobin A1C, inflammatory cytokines, and oxidative stress markers. Furthermore, BBR stimulated insulin secretion and improved insulin resistance through different pathways, including up-regulation of protein expression of proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-γ, glucose transporter (GLUT) 4, PI3K/AKT, and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation. Interestingly, it was demonstrated that BBR has protective effects against diabetes complications, such as diabetic-induced hepatic damage, cardiovascular disorders, nephropathy, and neuropathy. Furthermore, multiple clinical trial studies have emphasized the ameliorative effects of BBR in type 2 diabetic patients.

A Possible Role for Nerve Growth Factor and Its Receptors in Human Sperm Pathology.

Nerve growth factor (NGF) signalling affects spermatogenesis and mature sperm traits. In this paper, we aimed to evaluate the distribution and the role of NGF and its receptors (p75NTR and TrKA) on the reproductive apparatus (testis and epididymis) and sperm of fertile men (F) and men with different pathologies, namely varicocele (V) and urogenital infections (UGIs). We collected semen samples from 21 individuals (31-40 years old) subdivided as follows: V (n = 7), UGIs (n = 7), and F (n = 7). We submitted the semen samples to bacteriological analysis, leucocyte identification, and analysis of sperm parameters (concentration, motility, morphology, and viability). We determined the seminal plasma levels of NGF, interleukin 1β (IL-1β), and F2-isoprostanes (F2-IsoPs), and the gene and protein expression of NGF receptors on sperm. We also used immunofluorescence to examine NGF receptors on ejaculated sperm, testis, and epididymis. As expected, fertile men showed better sperm parameters as well as lower levels of NGF, F2-IsoPs, and IL-1β compared with men with infertility. Notably, in normal sperm, p75NTR and TrKA were localised throughout the entire tail. TrKA was also found in the post-acrosomal sheath. This localisation appeared different in patients with infertility: in particular, there was a strong p75NTR signal in the midpiece and the cytoplasmic residue or coiled tails of altered ejaculated sperm. In line with these findings, NGF receptors were intensely expressed in the epididymis and interstitial tissue of the testis. These data suggest the distinctive involvement of NGF and its receptors in the physiology of sperm from fertile men and men with infertility, indicating a possible role for new targeted treatment strategies.

Single-cell transcriptome sequencing reveals spatial distribution of IL34+ cancer-associated fibroblasts in hepatocellular carcinoma tumor microenvironment

We utilized scRNA-seq, a well-established technology, to uncover the gene expression characteristics of IL34+ CAFs within HCC. We analyzed the related mechanisms through in vitro and in vivo assays. To begin, we acquired scRNA-seq datasets about HCC, which enabled us to identify distinct cell subpopulations within HCC tissues. We conducted a differential analysis to pinpoint DEGs associated with normal fibroblasts (NFs) and CAFs. Subsequently, we isolated NFs and CAFs, followed by the sorting of IL34+ CAFs. These IL34+ CAFs were then co-cultured with T cells and HCC cells to investigate their potential role in Tregs infiltration, CD8+ T cell toxicity, and the biological processes of HCC cells. We validated our findings in vivo using a well-established mouse model. Our analysis of HCC tissues revealed the presence of seven primary cell subpopulations, with the most significant disparities observed within fibroblast subpopulations. Notably, high IL34 expression was linked to increased expression of receptor proteins and enhanced proliferative activity within CAFs, with specific expression in CAFs. Furthermore, we identified a substantial positive correlation between IL34 expression and the abundance of Tregs. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that IL34+ CAFs promoted Tregs infiltration while suppressing CD8+ T cell toxicity. Consequently, this promoted the growth and metastasis of HCC. In summary, our study affirms that IL34+ CAFs play a pivotal role in augmenting the proliferative activity of CAFs, facilitating Tregs infiltration, and inhibiting CD8+ T cell toxicity, ultimately fostering the growth and metastasis of HCC.

Doxorubicin impairs cognitive function by upregulating AMPAR and NMDAR subunit expression and increasing neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis in the brain

Introduction: The anticancer drug doxorubicin (DOX) is used for various malignancies. However, it also causes cognitive impairment in cancer survivors. In order to determine the mechanisms underlying the acute effects of DOX, we assessed the mRNA and protein expression of glutamate receptors and proteins involved in cognitive function and apoptosis.Methods: Fear-conditioning memory tests were performed in rats after a single intraperitoneal injection of DOX (25 mg/kg) to evaluate short-term memory function. Rat brain samples were collected, and GluA1 mRNA and protein expression; NR2A and NR2B mRNA expression; and COX-2, NF-kB, TNF-α, and MDA, Bax, and caspase-3 levels were assessed via reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays.Results: We observed a decreased number of entries in Y-maze, decreased exploration time to the novel object in the novel object recognition (NOR), and decreased freezing time in the fear-conditioning memory tests in DOX-treated rats relative to those in control rats, demonstrating cognitive impairment. GluA1, NR2B, and NR2A expression and MDA, NF-κB, Bax, COX-2, TNF-α, and caspase-3 levels in the brain were significantly elevated in DOX-treated rats.Conclusion: DOX induced cognitive impairment in the rats via neuronal toxicity by upregulating AMPAR and NMDAR expression and increasing neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis in the brain.

Green Tea Extract Reduced Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammation in L2 Cells as Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Model Through Genes and Cytokine Pro-Inflammatory.

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is a severe lung inflammatory condition that has the capacity to impair gas exchange and lead to hypoxemia. This condition is found to have been one of the most prevalent in patients of COVID-19 with a more serious condition. Green tea (Camellia sinensis L.) contains polyphenols that possess many health benefits. The purpose of this study was to assess the anti-inflammatory activities of green tea extract in Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced lung cells as ARDS cells model. In this study, rat lung cells (L2) were induced by LPS to mimic the inflammation observed in ARDS and later treated with green tea extract. Pro-inflammatory cytokines such as Interleukin (IL)-12, C-Reactive Protein (CRP) as well as Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF-α) were investigated using the ELISA method. Gene expression of NOD-Like Receptor Protein 3 (NLRP-3), Receptor for Advanced Glycation End-product (RAGE), Toll-like Receptor-4 (TLR-4), and Nuclear Factor-kappa B (NF-κB) were evaluated by qRTPCR. Apoptotic cells were measured using flow cytometry. The results showed that green tea extract treatment can reduce inflammation by suppressing gene expressions of NF-κB, NLRP-3, TLR-4, and RAGE, as well as pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-12, TNF-α, and CRP, an acute phase protein. Apoptosis levels of inflamed cells also found to be lowered when green tea extract was administered; thus, also increasing live cells compared to non-treated cells. These findings could lead to the future development of supplements from green tea to help alleviate ARDS symptoms, especially during critical moments such as the current pandemic.

A Synergistic Botanical Composition Increases Resting Energy Expenditure and Reduces Adiposity in High-Fat Diet-Fed Rats

Objective An imbalance between dietary energy intake and energy expenditure may result in body fat gain or obesity. Increasing resting energy expenditure (REE) is an attractive strategy for managing body fat gain. The objective of the current study was to generate proof-of-concept data on a synergistic composition (LN19183) of Citrus aurantifolia fruit rind (CA) and Theobroma cacao seed (TC) extracts to increase REE and reduce body fat gain in a high-fat diet (HFD)–fed rats. Method In in vitro cell-based experiments, CA, TC, or LN19183 were tested for fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF-21) production from 3T3-L1 mouse adipocytes. Uncoupling protein 1 (UCP-1) and beta3-adrenergic receptor (β3-AR) protein expressions in LN19183-treated 3T3-L1 lysates were also tested. The 56-day in vivo study in male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats (age: 12–14 weeks; body weight [b.w.]: 115–197 g) contained 2 phases of 28 days each of induction and supplementation. Seven rats received a regular rodent diet (RD) over 56 days. In the induction phase, 21 rats received HFD; in the supplementation phase, the obese rats (n = 7) received either HFD alone or in concurrence with a daily oral dose of either 100 or 250 mg/kg b.w. of LN19183 for 28 days. Results In 3T3-L1 adipocytes, LN19183 synergistically increased FGF-21 production and dose-dependently increased β3-AR and UCP-1 protein expression. In HFD-fed rats, both doses of LN19183 supplementation significantly (p < 0.05) decreased the body weight gain, total fat mass, and liver weight and increased (p < 0.05) REE. High-dose LN19183 also significantly (p < 0.05) increased fat oxidation and UCP-1 protein expression in white fat tissue and reduced liver triglyceride (TG) level. LN19183-supplemented groups substantially reduced serum TG and glucose levels compared to the HFD rats. Conclusions LN19183 reduces body fat mass and weight gain via increased REE and fat oxidation in HFD-fed obese rats.

Benzyl isothiocyanate inhibits TNFα-driven lipolysis via suppression of the ERK/PKA/HSL signaling pathway in 3T3-L1 adipocytes

Tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), an inflammatory cytokine, induces lipolysis and increases circulating concentrations of free fatty acids. In addition, TNFα is the first adipokine produced by adipose tissue in obesity, contributing to obesity-associated metabolic disease. Given that benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC) is a well-known anti-inflammatory agent, we hypothesized that BITC can ameliorate TNFα-induced lipolysis and investigated the working mechanisms involved. We first challenged 3T3-L1 adipocytes with TNFα to induce lipolysis, which was confirmed by increased glycerol release, decreased protein expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) and perilipin 1 (PLIN1), and increased phosphorylation of ERK, protein kinase A (PKA), and hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL). However, inhibition of ERK or PKA significantly attenuated the lipolytic activity of TNFα. Meanwhile, pretreatment with BITC significantly ameliorated the lipolytic activity of TNFα; the TNFα-induced phosphorylation of ERK, PKA, and HSL; the TNFα-induced ubiquitination of PPARγ; the TNFα-induced decrease in PPARγ nuclear protein binding to PPAR response element; and the TNFα-induced decrease in PLIN1 protein expression. Our results indicate that BITC ameliorates TNFα-induced lipolysis by inhibiting the ERK/PKA/HSL signaling pathway, preventing PPARγ proteasomal degradation, and maintaining PLIN1 protein expression.

Insights into the interaction between stocking density and feeding rate in fish Megalobrama ambylcephala based on growth performance, innate immunity, antioxidant activity, and the GH-IGF1 axis

The interaction between stocking density and feeding rate was investigated in juvenile blunt snout bream (Megalobrama ambylcephala) (11.94 ± 0.04 g) based on growth performance and health status. A 2 × 4 factorial design was adopted, containing two stocking densities (10 and 20 fish/m3) and four feeding rates (3%, 4%, 5% and 6% body weight/day). After the 12-weeks feeding trial, high stocking density (20 fish/m3) significantly (P < 0.05) reduced weight gain rate (WGR), feed intake (FI), protein efficiency ratio (PER), nitrogen and energy retention efficiency (NRE and ERE), plasma immunoglobulin M (IgM) level, plasma lysozyme (LZM), myeloperoxidase (MPO) and alkaline phosphatase (AKP) activities, as well as hepatic superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities, while the opposite was observed in feed conversion rate (FCR), condition factor (CF) and plasma complement 4 (C4) level. The highest feeding rate (6%) significantly (P < 0.05) increased WGR, FI, FCR, CF, the intraperitoneal fat ratio and the protein expression of growth hormone receptor, but significantly (P < 0.001) decreased PER, NRE and ERE. Moderate feeding rates (4%–5%) significantly (P < 0.05) increased body lipid and energy contents, the activities of SOD, CAT, glutathione peroxidase, LZM, MPO, AKP and acid phosphatase, the levels of complement 3 and 4 (C3 and C4), and the transcriptions and protein levels of growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor 1, while the opposite was noted in the malondialdehyde content. Furthermore, an interactive effect between stocking density and feeding rate was also noted in WGR, FI, plasma ACP, AKP and MPO activities, and liver malondialdehyde content. In summary, stocking density and feeding rate interactively affect the growth performance and health status of blunt snout bream. The optimum feeding rate of this species increased when cultured under high-density conditions.

CSIG-14. THE IMPACT OF CORTICOTROPHIN RELEASING HORMONE STRESS NEURO-HORMONES ON THE VIABILITY AND PROLIFERATION OF BRAIN TUMOURS

Abstract The majority of brain tumour sub-types are of glial origin. These include high-grade gliomas (HGGs), which lack effective targeted therapies and are thus invariably lethal. We have shown that stress leads to proliferation of brain glia. Such stress-induced glial cell division could provide opportunities for detrimental genetic mutations which increase the risk of oncogenesis. Identifying stress-induced glial plasticity could uncover molecular targets that directly influence glioma viability. Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) stress neurohormones, including urocortin I-III (UCN I-III) are key mediators of stress signalling in the brain including neuroplastic processes. The aims of this project were to compare the expression CRH peptides and receptors in different types of brain tumours and their impact on cells viability and proliferation. Five different brain tumour cell lines were used (two biopsy-derived-in-house-established HGGs – UP007 and SEBTA023 – and three commercially available Medulloblastomas, MBs – UW402, CHLA-01-MED and CHLA-01R-MED). The gene expression profiles of the CRH family were accessed by qRT-PCR (n = 5) and the protein expression by Immunocytochemistry and flow cytometry (FC, n = 3). The effects of targeted drug modulation were assessed through viability (MTS, n = 3) and proliferation assays (Cyquant NF cell proliferation, n = 3). Statistical significance of qRT-PCRs and FC were calculated through a Kruskal-Wallis test, and for viability and proliferation assays through a two-way ANOVA approach. Values of P &amp;lt; 0.05 were accepted as significant. The qRT-PCRs revealed a higher expression of stress neuro-hormones mRNA in MBs compared to HGGs. Immunocytochemistry confirmed the protein expression of CRH and downstream receptors in all cell lines, while FC revealed a higher expression of CRH-Rs in HGGs than MBs. The pharmacological modulation of CRH-Rs induced contrasting effects on cellular viability and proliferation, suggesting patient-specific CRH-CRH-R pathway. This raises the prospect of repurposing available CRH-R ligands for targeted treatment of susceptible tumour types.

STEM-03. TARGETING ANDROGEN SIGNALING IN GLIOBLASTOMA

Abstract BACKGROUND Glioblastoma is a lethal brain cancer. Androgen receptor (AR) transcript levels and protein expression are upregulated in glioblastoma compared to normal brain. AR signaling has a role in cancer stem cell function in various cancers. Stem cell activity and cancer cell plasticity represent a key resistance mechanism in glioblastoma. Thus, potent brain-penetrant anti-androgen therapies have the potential to improve treatment outcomes in glioblastoma. METHODS Clinical samples and patient derived xenografts were assessed for AR expression by immunohistochemistry. Cytoplasmic AR+ and AR- glioblastoma patient-derived xenografts maintained under stem cell conditions were tested in vitro for their response to anti-androgen therapies (abiraterone, enzalutamide and seviteronel). Stem cell function was assessed using a tumoursphere assay. Changes in plasticity markers, including ZEB1, were measured with immunofluorescence. RESULTS ~55% of people with glioblastoma have detectable cytoplasmic AR based on immunohistochemistry. AR-positive patient-derived glioma stem cell line RN1 was inhibited by low concentrations of anti-androgen agents, with seviteronel having the lowest half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) (at 96 hours: enzalutamide 52µM, abiraterone 12µM, seviteronel 7µM). AR-negative line WK1 was also inhibited though with higher IC50s (at 96 hours: enzalutamide 63µM, seviteronel 21µM). Conventional cell lines U87 and U251 were also inhibited by anti-androgen monotherapy. Tumoursphere assays demonstrated that anti-androgen agents inhibit the tumour-forming ability of cells, with seviteronel and abiraterone showing more inhibition than enzalutamide. Immunofluorescence analysis showed downregulation of plasticity marker ZEB1 with anti-androgen treatment (normalised mean fluorescent intensity: abiraterone 0.84, enzalutamide 0.91, seviteronel 0.74). CONCLUSIONS Glioblastoma is a devastating disease, lacking effective or targeted treatments. Targeting AR with repurposed anti-androgen drugs may be a promising therapeutic strategy, with the potential to abrogate treatment resistance. We are now evaluating these anti-androgen regimens in animal experiments, which will provide a more replicative microenvironment and confirm blood-brain barrier penetrance.

Biomimetic nanozymes target the heart to suppress ferroptosis for ameliorating doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity via synergetic effect of antioxidant stress and Nrf2/Hmox1 inhibition

Abstract Background Doxorubicin (DOX) is the first-line standard treatment of numerous cancer. However, DOX may lead to irreversible degenerative cardiomyopathy, congestive heart failure, and various arrhythmias, known as doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity (DIC), which limits the clinical applications. Studies reported that ferroptosis plays an important role on the development of DIC. Targeted intervention of ferroptosis with the specific inhibitors, such as ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1), could effectively prevent DIC. In recent years, catalytic nanozymes, such as cerium oxide (CeO2), have received much attention due to their strong antioxidant properties. Purpose Our previous research found that the transferrin receptor (TfR) protein expression was significantly upregulated in DIC mice (Figure 1) . In this study, we synthesized a biomimetic CeO2-based nanozyme by biomineralization with transferrin (Tf) proteins as the template, and then we assessed its targeted therapy for DIC via Tf-TfR mediated endocytosis. Method Cellular uptake, cytotoxicity test, intracellularmitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial ferrous ions and lipid peroxidation toxicity were verified with rat cardiomyocytes line H9c2 cells. Afterward, the male C57BL/6N mice were randomly divided into control, DOX, DOX+Fer-1, and DM+NPs groups. Heart structure and function were measured by echocardiographic, electrocardiography and epicardial electrical labeling. Western blot determine mitochondrial homeostasis regulation-related proteins and Nrf2/Hmox1 signalling pathway. Finally, the biodistribution and biocompatibility of CeO2@Tf was assessed. Results Transmission electron microscopy images revealed the encapsulated CeO2@Tf was≈ 5 nm in diameter. The nanozyme significantly reversed cardiac structural and electrical remodeling and reduced myocardial necrosis. Meanwhile, RNA sequencing of ventricular tissue revealed increased cardiac Hmox1 mRNA levels in DIC mice (Figure 2). Further, it demonstrated that nanozyme intervention not only significantly suppressed the oxidative stress, mitochondrial lipid peroxidation and mitochondrial membrane potential damage, but also inhibited activation of Nrf2/Hmox1 signalling pathway to restore mitochondria-dependent ferroptosis. Furthermore, the nanozyme could be cleared by the hepatobiliary systems, and showed a good biocompatibility. Conclusions The current study showed that biomimetic mineralization of hybrid CeO2-based nanozyme against DIC were mediated by effect of antioxidant stress and the inhibition of Nrf2/Hmox1 signalling pathway, thereby maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis and function, and re-storing mitochondria-dependent ferroptosis. Furthermore, the nanozyme could be a promising prevention and treatment candidate for clinical translation as a novel cardiomyocyte ferroptosis protector to mitigate DIC and improve the prognosis and quality of life of cancer patients.

ß- Caryophyllene Ameliorates Insulin Resistance in Liver of High Fat Diet and Fructose-Induced Type-2 Diabetic Rats

Insulin resistance may impact organs that transmit insulin signals, like skeletal muscle, adipose tissue, and the liver. Hyperglycemia and hypertriglyceridemia in the fasting state of type 2 diabetes mellitus are more significantly impacted by insulin resistance in the liver. Hypertriglyceridemia is the culprit behind beta-cell failure in type 2 diabetes. Treating insulin resistance in liver as a primary mechanism of traditional antidiabetic drugs, but unfortunately traditional drugs has unalterable advisory effect. In the present research, insulin resistance in the liver is addressed with the versatile natural phytonutrient beta-caryophyllene to demonstrate effectiveness in managing diabetes. An effective dose of -Caryophyllene taken by non-parental route (200 mg/kg b.wt) was given for 30 days to experimentally induced (high-fat diet and fructose-fed) type-2 diabetic rats to find out whether β-Caryophyllene regulates the IRS-2/akt pathway of insulin signaling. In the liver of diabetic rats, the data demonstrates that ß-caryophyllene treatment significantly increased the mRNA and protein expression of insulin receptor (IR) and GLUT-2. However, there was a significant variation in the mRNA expression of akt and insulin receptor-substrate-2 (IRS-2) between groups. Taking caryophyllene supplements can be beneficial for the control of type 2 diabetes. Studies conducted with this sesquiterpene could have tremendous potential and benefit for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.

MPFC TNFR2 modulated the impairment of cognitive flexibility induced by adolescent social stress and the relevant neuroplastic molecules

The impairment of cognitive flexibility (CF) exists to varying degrees in several psychiatric disorders and is increasingly recognized as the important etiological and pathological factors in these disorders. Our previous research has demonstrated that adolescent social stress (ASS) can lead to cognitive dysfunction in adult mice, accompanied by immune changes in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), mainly manifested by reduced levels of cytokine TNFα. The present study aimed to further investigate the mechanisms of TNFα receptor and the downstream neuroplasticity-related molecules involved in cognitive dysfunction induced by ASS. Cognitive flexibility was assessed using Attentional Set Shifting Task (AST). Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blot (WB) methods were use to determine mRNA and protein level of TNFα receptor (TNFR) and downstream signaling molecules, including nuclear transcript factor NF-κB and CREB, pCREB and Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). We found that ASS significantly decreased the mRNA and protein expression of TNFα receptor 2 (TNFR2), but not TNFR1 of the mPFC in adult mice. Direct up-regulation TNFR2 expression by microinjection of adeno-associated virus (AAV) encoding TNFR2 into the mPFC reversed the impairment of CF and the decrease of BDNF protein levels in stressed adult mice compared to that in controls. These findings demonstrated that mPFC TNFR2 plays critical roles in cognitive inflexibility induced by ASS, which effects may be mediated by neuroplastic molecules, and could be a promising target for treating cognitive dysfunction in psychiatric disorders.

Association of NLRPs with pathogenesis of dry age-related macular degeneration.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in the elderly population, and Dry AMD is the most common clinical subtype. However, effective measures for the early diagnosis and treatment of dry AMD have not been proposed. In recent years, NOD-like receptors (NLRs) have received attention in the study of AMD as an important class of pattern recognition receptors. We attempted to elucidate the pathogenesis of NLRs in dry AMD from the perspective of chronic inflammation. This study involved 13 patients with dry AMD, 10 age- and sex-matched normal population without any history of disease and 8 patients with wet AMD as controls. Using RT-qPCR, the mRNA expression levels of NLRs in peripheral blood peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were compared to analyze the statistical differences in the expression contents among the three populations. The relative RNA expression of nucleotide-binding oligomerization-like receptor protein 12 (NLRP12) with negative regulation of inflammation was significantly lower in dry AMD patients than in normal people and wet AMD patients. And NLRX1, which also has an anti-inflammatory effect, was lower in dry AMD patients than in wet AMD patients. However, NLRP3 with proinflammatory effect was significantly expressed in wet AMD. The significant decrease in NLRP12 in dry AMD may become a breakthrough in the study of dry AMD and systemic chronic inflammatory response. However, NLRP3 may have a more important role in wet AMD.