Human esophageal fibroblast-derived exosomal miR-21 reduced the cisplatin sensitivity to esophageal carcinoma EC9706 cells

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of human esophageal fibroblast-derived exosomal miR-21 on cisplatin sensitivity against esophageal squamous EC9706 cells. EC9706 cells were co-cultured indirectly with human esophageal fibroblasts (HEF) or miR-21 mimics transfected-HEF in the transwell system. The exosomes in HEF-culture conditioned medium were extracted by differential ultracentrifugation. EC9706 cells were co-cultured with HEF-derived exosomes directly. The cisplatin sensitivity against EC9706 cells was revealed via half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values using MTT assay. The expressions of miR-21, programmed cell death 4 (PDCD4) mRNA, and gene of phosphate and tension homology deleted on chromosome ten (PTEN) mRNA were determined by qRT-PCR. The changes of the protein level were detected using western blot assay. IC50 values of cisplatin against EC9706 cells were increased after EC9706 cells were co-cultured with either HEF or exosomes derived from miR-21 mimics-transfected HEF. Following the increased level of miR-21, the mRNA expression and protein levels of PTEN and PDCD4 were decreased in EC9706 cells. The cisplatin sensitivity to EC9706 cells was reduced by HEF-derived exosomal miR-21 through targeting PTEN and PDCD4. This study suggested that non-tumor cells in the tumor micro-environment increased the tumor anti-chemotherapy effects through their exosomes.

Mechanisms and biomarker candidates in pterygium development / Mecanismos e candidatos a biomarcadores no desenvolvimento do pterígio

ABSTRACT Pterygium pathogenesis has been mainly asso ciated with UV light exposure; however, this association remains quite controversial. The complete mechanism of pterygium also remains to be clarified. Factors such as inflammation, viral infection, oxidative stress, DNA methylation, inflammatory mediators, extracellular matrix modulators, apoptotic and oncogenic proteins, loss of heterozygosity, microsatellite instability, lymphangiogenesis, epithelial-mesenchymal cell transition, and alterations in cholesterol metabolism have been identified as causes. Several studies aimed to clarify the molecular mechanisms underlying the growth and proliferation of pterygium. Understanding its molecular basis provides new potential therapeutic targets for its prevention and treatment. A comprehensive search of the databases, namely, MedLine, EMBASE, and LILACS, was conducted with the following key words: pterygium, epidemiology, pathogenesis, biomarkers, and review. This review describes the epidemiology, clinical presentation, and current investigation of biological mediators involved in pterygium development.

RESUMO A patogênese do pterígio tem sido relacionada, prin cipalmente, à exposição à luz ultravioleta, mas esta asso ciação permanece bastante controversa. O mecanismo completo do pte rígio também permanece por esclarecer. Fatores como inflamação, infecção viral, estresse oxidativo, metilação do DNA, mediadores inflamatórios, moduladores de matriz extracelular, proteínas apoptóticas e oncogênicas, perda de heterozigose, instabilidade de microssatélites, linfangiogênese, transição celular epitelial-mesenquimal e alterações no metabolismo do colesterol tem sido identificados como causas. Diversos estudos visam esclarecer os mecanismos moleculares subjacentes ao crescimento e proliferação do pterígio. Entender sua base mo lecular fornece novos alvos terapêuticos potenciais para sua prevenção e tratamento. Uma busca abrangente nas bases de dados, a saber, MedLine, EMBASE e LILACS, foi realizada com as seguintes palavras-chave: pterígio; epidemiologia; patogênese; biomarcadores e revisão. Esta revisão descreve a epidemiologia, apresentação clínica e a atual investigação de mediadores biológicos envolvidos no desenvolvimento do pterígio.

Discovery of the ARP2 protein as a determining molecule in tumor cell death

Cancer is a multifactorial disease that constitutes a serious public health problem worldwide. Prostate cancer advanced stages are associated with the development of androgen-independent tumors and an apoptosis-resistant phenotype that progresses to metastasis. By studying androgen-independent lymphoid nodule carcinoma of the prostate (LNCaP) cells induced to apoptosis by serum elimination, we identified the activation of a non-selective cationic channel of 23pS conductance that promotes incoming Ca2+ currents, as well as apoptosis final stages. arp2cDNA was isolated and identified to be of the same cell type, and mRNA was expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes, which was found to be associated with the activation of incoming Ca2+ currents and induction to apoptosis. cDNA, which encodes the ARP2 protein, was overexpressed in LNCaP cells and Chinese hamster ovary cells, which induced apoptosis. Our evidence suggests that protein ARP2 overexpression and transit to the cell membrane allows an increased Ca2+ incoming current that initiates the apoptosis process in epithelial-type cells whose phenotype shows resistance to programmed cell death.

The role of ischemic preconditioning in the expression of apoptosis-related genes in a rat model of intestinal ischemia-reperfusion injury

Abstract Purpose: To analyze the effects of ischemic preconditioning (IPC) in the expression of apoptosis-related genes in rat small intestine subjected to ischemia and reperfusion. Methods: Thirty anesthetized rats underwent laparotomy and were drive into five groups: control (CG); ischemia (IG); ischemia and reperfusion (IRG); IPC and ischemia (IG+IPC); IPC and ischemia and reperfusion (I/RG+IPC). Intestinal ischemia was performed by clamping the superior mesenteric artery for 60 minutes, whereas reperfusion lasted for 120 minutes. IPC was carried out by one cycle of 5 minutes of ischemia followed by 10 minutes of reperfusion prior to the prolonged 60-minutes-ischemia and 120-minutes-reperfusion. Thereafter, the rats were euthanized and samples of small intestine were processed for histology and gene expression. Results: Histology of myenteric plexus showed a higher presence of neurons presenting pyknotic nuclei and condensed chromatin in the IG and IRG. IG+IPC and I/RG+IPC groups exhibited neurons with preserved volume and nuclei, along with significant up-regulation of the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl2l1 and down-regulation of pro-apoptotic genes. Moreover, Bax/Bcl2 ratio was lower in the groups subjected to IPC, indicating a protective effect of IPC against apoptosis. Conclusion: Ischemic preconditioning protect rat small intestine against ischemia/reperfusion injury, reducing morphologic lesions and apoptosis.

Relevancia pronóstica de la proteína B cell lymphoma 2 (bcl-2) en los subtipos moleculares intrínsicos del carcinoma de mama / Prognostic relevance of the B cell lymphoma 2 protein (bcl-2) in the intrinsic molecular subtypes of breast carcinoma

Introducción: El B cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) es una proteína anti-apoptótica que promueve la supervivencia de las células tumorales. A pesar de lo anterior, en el cáncer de mama se ha informado que su expresión es un factor pronóstico favorable. Objetivo: Evaluar el valor pronóstico de Bcl-2 según el subtipo molecular en mujeres venezolanas con cáncer de mama. Métodos: La relación entre la expresión inmunohistoquímica (IHQ) de Bcl-2, las variables clínico-patológicas y la supervivencia global (SG) media se analizó en 178 pacientes, cuyos tumores se clasificaron de acuerdo a lo establecido en el Consenso de St. Gallen 2015 y en función de la expresión IHQ de los receptores hormonales (estrógeno y progesterona), el receptor del factor de crecimiento epidérmico humano 2 (HER2) y el índice de proliferación (Ki-67): Luminal A, Luminal B, HER2 y Triple Negativo (TN). Resultados: Un total de 84 pacientes (47 %) tuvieron tumores positivos para Bcl-2, los cuales se asociaron significativamente con un grado histológico bajo (I y II), estadio clínico iniciales (I y II) y Ki-67 (<20 %). En los subtipos Luminales la expresión de Bcl-2 mostró un pronóstico mejor pero sin significancia estadística. Por el contrario, hubo un efecto pronóstico significativo (P=0,017) de la expresión de Bcl-2 en el subtipo TN, con SG media significativamente menor en comparación de la SG obtenida en los tumores Luminal A con Bcl-2 positivo. Conclusión: La expresión de Bcl-2 es un marcador de buen pronóstico en todos los subtipos moleculares, con significancia estadística sólo en el subtipo TN (AU)

Efficacy of phosphocreatine pre-administration on XIAP and Smac in ischemic penumbra of rats with focal cerebral ischemia reperfusion injury

Abstract Purpose: To observe the efficacy of phosphocreatine pre-administration (PCr-PA) on X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP), the second mitochondia-derived activator of caspase (Smac) and apoptosis in the ischemic penumbra of rats with focal cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI). Methods: A total of 60 healthy male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into three groups (n=20): group A (the sham operation group), group B <intraperitoneally injected with 20 mg/kg (10 mg/ml) of saline before preparing the ischemia-reperfusion (IR) model>, and group C <intraperitoneally injected with 20 mg/kg (10 mg/ml) of PCr immediately before preparing the IR model>. After 24 h for reperfusion, the neurological function was evaluated and the tissue was sampled to detect expression of XIAP, Smac and caspase-3 positive cells in the ischemic penumbra so as to observe the apoptosis. Results: Compared with group B, neurological deficit scores, numbers of apoptotic cells, expression of Smac,caspase-9 and the numbers of Caspase-3 positive cells were decreased while expression of XIAP were increased in the ischemic penumbra of group C. Conclusions: Phosphocreatine pre-administration may elicit neuroprotective effects in the brain by increasing expression of X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein, reducing expression of second mitochondia-derived activator of caspase, and inhibiting the apoptosis in the ischemic penumbra.

Long non-coding RNA LINC00261 sensitizes human colon cancer cells to cisplatin therapy

Colon cancer is one of the most common digestive tumors. The present study aimed to explore the functional role, as well as the underlying mechanism of long non-coding RNA LINC00261 in colon cancer. Expression of LINC00261 was analyzed in colon cancer cell lines and human normal cell lines. Acquired resistance cell lines were then built and the acquired resistance efficiency was detected by evaluating cell viability. Thereafter, the effects of LINC00261 overexpression on cisplatin-resistant colon cancer cells were measured, as well as cell apoptosis, viability, migration, and invasion. Subsequently, we investigated the interaction of LINC00261 and β-catenin. The results showed that the LINC00261 gene was down-regulated in colon cancer cell lines and tissues, and in cisplatin-resistant cells. LINC00261 overexpression might relieve cisplatin resistance of colon cancer cells via promoting cell apoptosis, and inhibiting cell viability, migration, and invasion. Moreover, LINC00261 might down-regulate nuclear β-catenin through restraining β-catenin from cytoplasm into nuclei or it could also promote β-catenin degradation and inhibit activation of Wnt pathway. Finally, LINC00261 reduced cisplatin resistance of colon cancer in vivo and enhanced the anti-colon cancer effect of cisplatin through reducing tumor volume and weight.

CMPD1 inhibited human gastric cancer cell proliferation by inducing apoptosis and G2/M cell cycle arrest

BACKGROUND: Gastric cancer occupies the fourth highest morbidity rate of cancers worldwide. Clinical therapies of gastric cancer remain limited because of uncertainty of mechanisms and shortness of effective medicine. Thus, new drug candidates for gastric cancer treatment is urgently needed. RESULTS: In this study, CMPD1 as a wildly used MK2 phosphorylation inhibitor was employed to find its impact on gastric cancer cell proliferation, apoptosis and cell cycle using colony formation assay and flow cytometry analysis. Along with its anti-proliferation effect on gastric cancer cell line MKN-45 and SGC7901, CMPD1 also induced massive apoptosis and significant G2/M phase arrest in a time-dependent and dose-dependent manner in MKN-45 cells respectively. Furthermore, Western blot confirmed that the expression of anti-apoptotic proteins Bcl-2 was decreased while BAX, cytochrome c release and cleaved PARP were increased. In addition, oncogene c-Myc was downregulated in response to CMPD1 treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Our results demonstrated that CMPD1 has anti-tumor effect on human gastric cancer cell line MKN- 45 possibly via downregulating oncogene c-Myc expression and CMPD1 could be applied as a potential candidate for treating gastric malignancy. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first report of anti-tumor effect of CMPD-1 on human gastric cancer cells.

Papel da Apoptose em Obstetrícia / Role of Apoptosis in Obstetrics

Apoptose, ou morte celular programada, é um mecanismo fisiológico universal entre mamíferos que regula o equilíbrio entre proliferação e morte celular a fim de manter a homeostase tecidual. Nesse processo, a apoptose poderá ser iniciada intrinsicamente por via mitocondrial ou, extrinsecamente, mediada por sinalização via receptor de morte ou em resposta a elementos exógenos como citocinas e processos não excludentes, complementares e com ativação cruzada. As moléculas envolvidas no controle das vias de ativação da apoptose são as proteínas anti, pró-apoptóticas e caspases. Esse fenômeno biológico, além de desempenhar um papel importante no controle de diversos processos vitais, está associado a inúmeras complicações da gravidez como toxemia, crescimento intrauterino restrito, parto pré-termo, diabetes gestacional, abortamento, gravidez ectópica e a transformação maligna da mola hidatiforme. No denominador comum dessas doenças está o desconhecimento de sua etiopatogenia e o desenvolvimento/funcionamento placentário anormal. Compreender todas essas alterações deverá interessar não apenas ao pesquisador dessas moléstias, mas também aos clínicos que tratam essas doenças no intuito de se incorporar novas tecnologias na rotina médica e na melhoria das perspectivas prognósticas e terapêuticas dentro da obstetrícia.(AU)

Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, is a universal physiological mechanism in mammals, which regulates the balance between cell proliferation and death in order to maintain tissue homeostasis. In this process, apoptosis can be initiated intrinsically or extrinsically by mitochondrial pathway, mediated by death receptor signaling or in response to exogenous factors such as cytokines and processes not mutually exclusive, complementary and cross-activation. The molecules involved in the control of apoptosis activation pathways are anti and pro-apoptotic proteins as well as caspases. This biological phenomenon, besides play an important role in the control of many vital processes, is associated with many complications of pregnancy such as toxemia, intrauterine growth, preterm birth, gestational diabetes, miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy and malignant in transformation hydatiform mole. The common denominator of these diseases is the lack of knowledge about its pathogenesis and development/abnormal placental function. Understand all these changes should interest not only to the researchers, but also for clinicians who treat these diseases in order to incorporate new technologies in the medical routine and in improving prognostic and therapeutic perspectives in obstetrics.(AU)

High expression of anti-apoptotic genes in grade I and II meningiomas / Alta expressão de genes anti-apoptóticos em meningiomas graus I e II

ABSTRACT One of the different genetic mechanisms involved in the carcinogenesis of meningiomas is influenced by interactions between proteins that induce and inhibit apoptosis. Objective To evaluate the expression of c-FLIP, XIAP, Bcl-2, caspase 3, 8 and 9, cytochrome c, APAF 1 and Smac/DIABLO genes related to apoptosis pathways. Methods The gene expression was evaluated in 30 meningiomas (WHO grades I and II) and in 10 normal samples (from arachnoid tissue) through PCR-RT. Results The results showed higher expression of anti-apoptotic genes in meningiomas when compared to the control group, which had a low expression of pro-apoptotic genes. Conclusion There is a possible block in the activation of caspases through the intrinsic apoptosis pathway in meningiomas. c-FLIP modulates caspase 8 and, by inhibiting its activation due to the lack of connection with the receiver, there is a block to the FAS activation of apoptosis by its extrinsic pathway.

RESUMO Um dos diferentes mecanismos genéticos envolvidos na carcinogênese de meningiomas é influenciado por interações entre proteínas que induzem e inibem a apoptose. Objetivos Avaliar a expressão de c-FLIP, XIAP, Bcl-2, caspase 3, 8 e 9, citocromo C, APAF 1 e Smac/DIABLO, genes relacionados com as vias da apoptose. Métodos A expressão gênica foi avaliada em trinta amostras de meningiomas (OMS grau I e II) e em dez amostras normais (de aracnóide) por PCR em tempo real. Resultados Os resultados mostraram maior expressão de genes antiapoptóticos em meningiomas quando comparados com controle, em contraste com a menor expressão de genes próapoptóticos. Conclusão Há um possível bloqueio na ativação de caspases através da via intrínseca da apoptose em meningiomas. O c-FLIP modula a caspase 8 e, desse modo, inibindo a sua ativação pela ausência de ligação com o receptor, há um bloqueio na ativação de FAS pela via extrínseca da apoptose.

Programmed cell death 5 transgenic mice attenuates adjuvant induced arthritis by 2 modifying the T lymphocytes balance

BACKGROUND: Programmed cell death 5 (PDCD5) is an apoptosis-related gene cloned from TF-1 cells whose primary biological functions are to promote apoptosis and immune regulation. The effects and mechanisms exerted by key mediators of arthritic inflammation remain unclear in PDCD5 transgenic (PDCD5 tg) mice. RESULTS: In the current study, PDCD5 tg mice inhibited the progression of adjuvant-induced arthritis, specifically decreasing clinical signs and histological damage, compared with arthritis control mice. Additionally, the ratio of CD4+IFN-γ+ cells (Th1) and CD4+IL-17A+ cells (Th17), as well as the mRNA expression of the pro-inflammatory mediators IFN-γ, IL-6, IL-17A and TNF-α, were decreased in PDCD5 tg mice, while CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T (Treg) cells and the anti-inflammatory mediators IL-4 and IL-10 were increased. Furthermore, PDCD5 tg mice demonstrated reduced serum levels of IFN-γ, IL-6, IL-17A and TNF-α and increased levels of IL-4. CONCLUSIONS: Based on our data, PDCD5 exerts anti-inflammatory effects by modifying the T lymphocytes balance, inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators and promoting the secretion of anti-inflammatory cytokines, validating PDCD5 protein as a possible treatment for RA.

Association of PDCD1 polymorphism to systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis susceptibility / Associação entre o polimorfismo do gene PDCD1 e a susceptibilidade ao lúpus eritematoso sistêmico e à artrite reumatoide

ABSTRACT Objective: This study aims to analyze the relationship of programmed cell death 1 (PDCD1) gene polymorphism (PD1.3G/A - rs11568821) with features of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in a Southern Brazilian population. Methods: Polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) was performed in 95 SLE and 87 RA patients and 128 control group individuals from Santa Catarina, Southern Brazil. The Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) test, and odds ratio (OR) were analyzed, considering CI 95% and p ≤ 0.05. Results: The PD1.3A allele frequencies were 0.095 (SLE), 0.115 (RA) and 0.078 (controls). The genotypes of the control group were in HWE, while those of SLE and RA patients were not. However, we found no association between PD1.3 polymorphism and the SLE or RA susceptibility, nor clinical or epidemiological data. Conclusion: There was no significant association between PD1.3 polymorphism and SLE or RA susceptibility in this Southern Brazilian population.

RESUMO Objetivo: Este estudo teve como objetivo analisar a relação entre o polimorfismo do gene PDCD1 (programmed cell death 1) (PD1.3G/A - rs11568821) com características do lúpus eritematoso sistêmico (LES) e da artrite reumatoide (AR) em uma população do sul do Brasil. Métodos: A técnica de PCR-RFLP (Polymerase Chain Reaction-Restriction Fragment Lenght Polymorphism) foi utilizada para analisar amostras de 95 pacientes com LES e 87 com AR, assim como em 128 indivíduos do grupo controle de Santa Catarina, sul do Brasil. Foi analisada a probabilidade de equilíbrio de Hardy-Weinberg (EHW) e a odds ratio (OR), considerando um IC 95% e p ≤ 0,05. Resultados: As frequências alélicas PD1.3 A foram de 0,095 (LES), 0,115 (AR) e 0,078 (controles). Os genótipos do grupo controle estavam em EHW, enquanto aqueles dos pacientes com LES e AR não estavam. No entanto, não foi encontrada associação entre o polimorfismo PD1.3 e a suscetibilidade ao LES ou à AR, nem com dados clínicos ou epidemiológicos. Conclusão: Não foi encontrada associação significativa entre o polimorfismo PD1.3 e a susceptibilidade ao LES ou à AR nessa população do sul do Brasil.

Lack of association between genetic polymorphism of FTO, AKT1 and AKTIP in childhood overweight and obesity / Falta de associação entre o polimorfismo genético do FTO, AKT1 e AKTIP e o sobrepeso e a obesidade infantis

Abstract Objective: Obesity is a chronic disease caused by both environmental and genetic factors. Epidemiological studies have documented that increased energy intake and sedentary lifestyle, as well as a genetic contribution, are forces behind the obesity epidemic. Knowledge about the interaction between genetic and environmental components can facilitate the choice of the most effective and specific measures for the prevention of obesity. The aim of this study was to assess the association between the FTO, AKT1, and AKTIP genes and childhood obesity and insulin resistance. Methods: This was a case-control study in which SNPs in the FTO (rs99396096), AKT1, and AKTIP genes were genotyped in groups of controls and obese/overweight children. The study included 195 obese/overweight children and 153 control subjects. Results: As expected, the obese/overweight group subjects had higher body mass index, higher fasting glucose, HOMA-IR index, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, and triglycerides. However, no significant differences were observed in genes polymorphisms genotype or allele frequencies. Conclusion: The present results suggest that AKT1, FTO, and AKTIP polymorphisms were not associated with obesity/overweight in Brazilians children. Future studies on the genetics of obesity in Brazilian children and their environment interactions are needed.

Resumo Objetivo A obesidade é uma doença crônica sustentada por fatores ambientais e genéticos. Estudos epidemiológicos documentaram que maior ingestão de energia e um estilo de vida sedentário, bem como a contribuição genética, são forças por trás da epidemia de obesidade. O conhecimento sobre a interação entre os componentes genéticos e ambientais pode facilitar a escolha das medidas mais efetivas e específicas para a prevenção da obesidade. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a relação entre os genes associado à massa de gordura e à obesidade (FTO), homólogo 1 do oncogene viral v-akt de timoma murino (AKT1) e de ligação AKT1 (AKTIP) e a obesidade infantil e a resistência à insulina. Métodos Estudo de caso-controle no qual os polimorfismos de nucleotídeo simples (SNPs) nos genes FTO (rs99396096), AKT1 e AKTIP foram genotipados em grupos de controle e de crianças obesas/acima do peso. Foram recrutadas 195 crianças obesas/acima do peso e 153 indivíduos controle. Resultados Como esperado, os indivíduos do grupo obeso/acima do peso apresentaram maior índice de massa corporal, maior glicemia de jejum, índice do modelo de avaliação de homeostase (HOMA-IR), colesterol total, lipoproteína de baixa densidade e triglicerídeos. Contudo, não encontramos diferenças significativas no genótipo de polimorfismos gênicos ou nas frequências alélicas. Conclusão Nossos resultados sugerem que os polimorfismos AKT1, FTO e AKTIP não estavam associados à obesidade/sobrepeso em crianças brasileiras. São necessários estudos futuros sobre a genética da obesidade em crianças brasileiras e suas interações ambientais.

Morphological and immunohistochemical analysis of apoptosis in the cerebellum of rats subjected to focal cerebral ischemia with or without alcoholism model

ABSTRACT PURPOSE: To evaluated histopathological changes, morphometric and expression of proteins CASPASE-3, BCL-2 and XIAP related to apoptosis in the cerebellum after induction of temporary focal cerebral ischemia followed by reperfusion, with or without a model of chronic alcoholism. METHODS: Fifty Wistar rats were used and divided into: control group (C), sham group (S), ischemic group (I), alcoholic group (A), and ischemic and alcoholic group (IA). The cerebellum samples collected were stained for histopathological and morphometric analysis and immunohistochemistry study. RESULTS: Histopathological changes were observed a greater degree in animals in groups A and IA. The morphometric study showed no difference in the amount of cells in the granular layer of the cerebellum between the groups. The expression of CASPASE-3 was higher than BCL-2 and XIAP in the groups A and IA. CONCLUSION: We observed correlation between histopathological changes and the occurrence of apoptosis in cerebellar cortex.

Effect of microRNA-21 on the proliferation of human degenerated nucleus pulposus by targeting programmed cell death 4

This study aims to explore the effect of microRNA-21 (miR-21) on the proliferation of human degenerated nucleus pulposus (NP) by targeting programmed cell death 4 (PDCD4) tumor suppressor. NP tissues were collected from 20 intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) patients, and from 5 patients with traumatic spine fracture. MiR-21 expressions were tested. NP cells from IDD patients were collected and divided into blank control group, negative control group (transfected with miR-21 negative sequences), miR-21 inhibitor group (transfected with miR-21 inhibitors), miR-21 mimics group (transfected with miR-21 mimics) and PDCD4 siRNA group (transfected with PDCD4 siRNAs). Cell growth was estimated by Cell Counting Kit-8; PDCD4, MMP-2,MMP-9 mRNA expressions were evaluated by qRT-PCR; PDCD4, c-Jun and p-c-Jun expressions were tested using western blot. In IDD patients, the expressions of miR-21 and PDCD4 mRNA were respectively elevated and decreased (both P<0.05). The miR-21 expressions were positively correlated with Pfirrmann grades, but negatively correlated with PDCD4 mRNA (both P<0.001). In miR-21 inhibitor group, cell growth, MMP-2 and MMP-9 mRNA expressions, and p-c-Jun protein expressions were significantly lower, while PDCD4 mRNA and protein expressions were higher than the other groups (all P<0.05). These expressions in the PDCD4 siRNA and miR-21 mimics groups was inverted compared to that in the miR-21 inhibitor group (all P<0.05). MiR-21 could promote the proliferation of human degenerated NP cells by targeting PDCD4, increasing phosphorylation of c-Jun protein, and activating AP-1-dependent transcription of MMPs, indicating that miR-21 may be a crucial biomarker in the pathogenesis of IDD.

Exploring the in vivo wound healing effects of a recombinant hemolin from the caterpillar Lonomia obliqua

Hemolin proteins are cell adhesion molecules from lepidopterans involved in a wide range of cell interactions concerning their adhesion properties. However, hemolins roles in cell proliferation and wound healing are not fully elucidated. It has been recently reported that rLosac, a recombinant hemolin from the caterpillar Lonomia obliqua, presents antiapoptotic activity and is capable of improving in vitro wound healing. Therefore, this study aimed to explore rLosacs in vivo effects using a skin wound healing model in rats. Methods Circular full-thickness wounds in the rat dorsum skin were treated either with rLosac, or with saline (control), allowing healing by keeping the wounds occluded and moist. During the wound healing, the following tissue regeneration parameters were evaluated: wound closure and collagen content. Furthermore, tissue sections were subjected to histological and immunohistochemical analyses. Results The rLosac treatment has demonstrated its capacity to improve wound healing, as reflected in findings of a larger number of activated fibroblasts, proliferation of epithelial cells, increase of collagen type 1, and decrease of inflammatory infiltrate. Conclusion The findings have indicated the rLosac protein as a very promising molecule for the development of new wound-healing formulations.

El inflamasoma: mecanismos de activación / Inflammasome: activation mechanisms

La inflamación es una respuesta biológica rápida del sistema inmune en tejidos vasculares, dirigida a eliminar estímulos capaces de producir daño y a iniciar la curación y la reparación. Los complejos macromoleculares denominados inflamasomas están constituidos por un receptor NOD (NLR), un receptor de AIM2 (ausente en melanoma 2) el ALR, la proteína tipo punto asociada a apoptosis (ASC) y la procaspasa-1, los cuales pueden ser activados por variación en la concentración iónica y de ATP intracelular y extracelular, por desestabilización del fagolisosoma, por internalización de cristales insolubles y por mecanismos de oxidoreducción, lo cual permitirá la activación de la plataforma molecular y el consiguiente procesamiento de las prointerleuquinas inflamatorias a sus formas activas. En la actualidad existen dos nodos de señalización utilizados por los inflamasomas: canónica y no canónica para generar respuestas efectoras. Datos recientes vinculan al inflamasoma NLRP3, la IL-1b y a la IL-18, en el desarrollo y evolución de enfermedades tales como: ateroesclerosis, diabetes tipo II, hiperhomocisteinemia, gota, malaria e hipertensión arterial e identificaron esta cascada, como un blanco quimioterapéutico ideal para la prevención de estas patologías. En esta revisión se discutirán los mecanismos de activación y regulación del inflamasoma que estimulan, modulan y resuelven los procesos inflamatorios.

Inflammation is a rapid biologic response of the immune system in vascular tissues, directed to eliminate stimuli capable of causing damage and begin the process of repair. The macromolecular complexes known as “inflammasomes” are formed by a receptor, either NOD (NLR) or ALR, the receptor absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2). In addition, the inflammasome is formed by the speck-like protein associated to apoptosis (ASC) and procaspase-1, that may be activated by variations in the ionic and intracellular and extracellular ATP concentrations; and the loss of stabilization of the fagolisosomme by internalization of insoluble crystals and redox mechanisms. As a result, there is activation of the molecular platform and the processing of inflammatory prointerleukins to their active forms. There are two modalities of activation of the inflammasome: canonical and non-canonical, both capable of generating effector responses. Recent data associate NLRP 3, IL-1b and IL-18 in the pathogenesis of a variety of diseases, including atherosclerosis, type II diabetes, hyperhomocysteinemia, gout, malaria and hypertension. The inflammasome cascade is emerging as a new chemotherapeutic target in these diseases. In this review we shall discuss the mechanisms of activation and regulation of the inflammasome that stimulate, modulate and resolve inflammation.

Heparin modulates the expression of genes encoding pro and anti-apoptotic proteins in endothelial cells exposed to intestinal ischemia and reperfusion in rats

PURPOSE: To investigate if expression of genes encoding pro and anti-apoptotic proteins in the rat enteric endothelial cells stimulated by intestinal ischemia followed by reperfusion (IR) can be modified by treatment with heparin (HP). METHODS: Eighteen adult Wistar rats were divided in three groups: sham group submitted to laparotomy only (SG), ischemia followed by reperfusion group (IRG); ischemia followed by reperfusion plus pretreatment with HP 100 mg.kg-1 (IRG+HP). Ischemia was performed by clamping of the superior mesenteric artery. After 60 min of ischemia, metal clamps were removed for reperfusion for 120 min. Gene expression of encoding pro (Casp1, Casp6, Casp3, Cflar, Fas and Pgl) and anti-apoptotic (Bcl2, Bcl2l1 and Naip2) proteins in rat enteric endothelial cells was evaluated by PCR microarray method. RESULTS: Compared to rat endothelial cells of SG, the expression of pro-apoptotic genes was up-regulated in IRG while anti-apoptotic genes were down-regulated. In contrast, the expression of anti-apoptotic genes in IRG+HP was up-regulated while pro-apoptotic genes was down-regulated compared to SG. CONCLUSION: The attenuation by heparin of intestinal ischemia-reperfusion previously demonstrated in rodents could be related with ability of this drug to stimulate and reduce gene expression of encoding anti and pro-apoptotic proteins, respectively. .

Expression of beclin 1 in primary salivary adenoid cystic carcinoma and its relation to Bcl-2 and p53 and prognosis

Beclin 1 plays a critical role in autophagy and functions as a haploinsufficient tumor suppressor. The expression and prognostic significance of beclin 1 in head and neck adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) are largely unexplored. Therefore, we investigated the expression of beclin 1, Bcl-2, and p53 in head and neck ACC tissue. Tissue samples from 35 cases (15 females, 20 males) of head and neck ACC were utilized for immunohistochemistry. Beclin 1 expression was observed in 32 cases (91.4%) and considered to be high in 15 cases (42.9%) and low in 20 cases (57.1%). Beclin 1 expression was significantly correlated with a histological growth pattern (P=0.046) and histological grade (P=0.037). Beclin 1 expression was inversely correlated with Bcl-2 expression (P=0.013) and significantly associated with overall survival (P=0.006). Bcl-2 and p53 expression were observed in 21 cases (60.0%) and 16 cases (45.7%). Bcl-2 expression was significantly correlated with perineural invasion (P=0.041) and not associated with overall survival (P=0.053). p53 expression was directly correlated with beclin 1 expression (P=0.044). Our results indicated that beclin 1 may be a novel, promising prognostic factor for clinical outcome in head and neck ACC patients and may play a part in the development of head and neck ACC by interacting with Bcl-2 and p53.

Evaluación de la actividad antiproliferativa y proapoptótica de compuestos kauranos sobre líneas celulares de leucemia humana / Evaluation of the antiproliferative and proapoptotic activity of kauran compounds on human leukemia cell lines

En Venezuela y el mundo, el cáncer es la segunda causa de morbi-mortalidad, y la leucemia es uno de los tipos de cáncer que afecta a nuestra población. La principal características de las celulas linfoides y mieloides presentes en la leucemia es que son pocos funcionales y además no responden a las señales proapoptóticas. Por lo tanto, en la búsqueda de compuestos de mejor perfil terapéutico, se evaluó el efecto de compuestos de tipo seco ent-kauranos aislados de plantas terrestres en las lineas celulares jurka E6.1 y HL60 sobre el crecimiento celular a través del método colorimétrico del MTT, la inducción de apoptosis a través del uso de la microscopia confocal, la citometría de flujo y los micro arreglos de proteínas; y sobre el ciclo celular, la actividad de la vía del NFkB y la diferenciación celular también a través de la citometría de flujo. Se determino que el ácido de casacasina, y la caracasina, disminuyeron la proliferación cecular, indujeron el arresto del ciclo celular, provocaron la externalización de la fosfatidilserina y la activación de las capasas 3, 7, 8 y 9, a la vez que promovieron la disminución del potencial mitocondrial, incrementaron la expresión de las proteínas proapoptóticas en ambas líneas celulares, disminuyeron la activación de la vía de señalización del NFkB en la línea celular Jurkat E6.1, y ademas indujeron la expresión de la proteína CD40 e incrementaron la producción de especies reactivas de oxigeno en la línea celular HL60, por lo que estos compuestos ent-kauranos poseen un alto potencial anticancerígeno para la leucemia linfocítica aguda de células T y para la leucemia promielocítica