Evaluation of the fatty acid-based erythrocyte membrane lipidome in cats with food responsive enteropathy, inflammatory bowel disease and low-grade intestinal T-cell lymphoma.

Feline chronic enteropathies (FCE), include food-responsive-enteropathy (FRE), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and low-grade intestinal T-cell lymphoma (LGITL), and are common causes of chronic gastrointestinal signs in cats. Distinguishing between different subgroups of FCE can be challenging due to the frequent overlap of anamnestic, clinical, and laboratory data. While dysregulation in lipid metabolism has been reported in humans and dogs with chronic IBD, similar changes in cats are not yet completely understood. Assessing the fatty acid (FA) profile of red blood cell (RBC) membranes offers a valuable method for evaluating the quantity and quality of structural and functional molecular components in the membranes. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the FA composition of RBC membranes in FCE in comparison to healthy cats (HC). Gas-chromatography was used to quantitatively analyze a cluster of 11 FA, and based on these results, parameters of lipid homeostasis and enzyme activity indexes were calculated. A total of 41 FCE cats (17 FRE, 15 IBD, 9 LGITL) and 43 HC were enrolled. In FCE cats, the values of docosapentaenoic acid (p = 0.0002) and docosahexaenoic acid (p = 0.0246), were significantly higher, resulting in an overall increase in ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) (p = 0.006), and that of linoleic acid (p = 0.0026) was significantly lower. Additionally, FCE cats exhibited an increased PUFA balance (p = 0.0019) and Δ6-desaturase index (p = 0.0151), along with a decreased ω-6/ω-3 ratio (p = 0.0019). No differences were observed among cats affected by FRE, IBD and LGITL. Like humans and dogs, the results of this study indicate that FCE cats also display changes in their FA lipid profile at the level of the RBC membrane. The non-invasive analysis of RBC membrane shows promise as a potential tool for gaining a better understanding of lipid imbalances in this disease.

Expression of somatostatin receptors in canine and feline meningioma.

OBJECTIVES: The standard treatment for canine and feline meningiomas includes radiotherapy, surgical excision or combined therapy. However, new therapeutic approaches are required due to the possible recurrence or progression of meningiomas despite initial therapy. Adjunctive therapy with synthetic long-acting somatostatin (SST) analogues has been described in humans with SST-expressing tumours. The expression of SST receptors (SSTRs) by feline meningiomas is currently unknown, and there are little data about canine meningiomas. We hypothesized that SSTR is expressed by canine and feline meningiomas (S1). METHODS: Seven canines and 11 felines with histologically confirmed meningiomas underwent STTR screening. RNA expressions of SSTR1, SSTR2, SSTR3 and SSTR5 (canine) and SSTR1-SSTR 5 (feline) in fresh frozen and formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples were investigated using real-time (RT)-qPCR. The expression of SSTR1 and SSTR2 in FFPE samples was evaluated using immunohistochemistry (IHC). The specificity of applied antibodies for canine and feline species was confirmed by western blotting. RESULTS: In canine meningiomas (n = 7), RNA expression of SSTR1, SSTR2 and SSTR5 was detected in all samples; SSTR3 RNA expression was detected in only 33% of samples. In feline meningiomas (n = 12), RNA expression of SSTR1, SSTR4, SSTR5 and SSTR2 was detected in 91%, 46%, 46% and 36% of samples, respectively; SSTR3 was not expressed. Overall, the detection rate was lower in FFPE samples. IHC revealed the expression of SSTR1 and SSTR2 in all samples from both species. However, it is important to exercise caution when interpreting IHC results due to the presence of diffuse background staining. CONCLUSIONS: SSTRs are widely expressed in canine and feline meningiomas, thereby encouraging further studies investigating SSTR expression to conduct trials about the effect of adjunctive therapy with long-acting SST-analogues.

Moderate to advanced periodontitis contributes to increased oxidative stress in cats: a case-control study.

BACKGROUND: Periodontal diseases are the most frequently diagnosed problem in cats. It has been well-established that periodontal diseases could not only cause various oral health issues but could also contribute to systemic diseases. Oxidative stress is a possible link between systemic diseases and periodontitis. Our study aimed to illustrate the influence of periodontitis on oxidative stress development in cats. Furthermore, the changes in the bacterial flora of the gums were investigated. METHODS: Based on the clinical and laboratory examinations, fifty cats were divided into two groups normal (n = 25) and moderate to advanced periodontitis (n = 25). Serum total antioxidant capacity (TAC), total oxidant status (TOS), reduced (GSH) and oxidized glutathione (GSSG) were measured. In addition, samples were taken from the subgingival plaques of all cats for bacterial culture. RESULTS: Serum TOS, GSSG, GSSG to GSH ratio, and oxidative stress index (OSI), calculated as the ratio of TOS to TAC in cats with periodontal disease were significantly higher, and TAC was significantly lower (p < 0.05) compared with controls. The results of bacterial culture indicated that the number of isolated bacterial colonies is higher in patients than in the control group. Additionally, the analysis of these data showed a positive association between periodontal index and oxidative stress. CONCLUSIONS: Our results revealed that periodontitis in cats is related to a main oxidative stress. Furthermore, oxidant factors such as TOS and OSI, compared to antioxidant factors, may better indicate the presence of oxidative stress conditions in patients with periodontitis.

Serum metabolome analysis in hyperthyroid cats before and after radioactive iodine therapy.

Hyperthyroidism is the most common feline endocrinopathy. In hyperthyroid humans, untargeted metabolomic analysis identified persistent metabolic derangements despite achieving a euthyroid state. Therefore, we sought to define the metabolome of hyperthyroid cats and identify ongoing metabolic changes after treatment. We prospectively compared privately-owned hyperthyroid cats (n = 7) admitted for radioactive iodine (I-131) treatment and euthyroid privately-owned control (CON) cats (n = 12). Serum samples were collected before (T0), 1-month (T1), and three months after (T3) I-131 therapy for untargeted metabolomic analysis by MS/MS. Hyperthyroid cats (T0) had a distinct metabolic signature with 277 significantly different metabolites than controls (70 increased, 207 decreased). After treatment, 66 (T1 vs. CON) and 64 (T3 vs. CON) metabolite differences persisted. Clustering and data reduction analysis revealed separate clustering of hyperthyroid (T0) and CON cats with intermediate phenotypes after treatment (T1 & T3). Mevalonate/mevalonolactone and creatine phosphate were candidate biomarkers with excellent discrimination between hyperthyroid and healthy cats. We found several metabolic derangements (e.g., decreased carnitine and α-tocopherol) do not entirely resolve after achieving a euthyroid state after treating hyperthyroid cats with I-131. Further investigation is warranted to determine diagnostic and therapeutic implications for candidate biomarkers and persistent metabolic abnormalities.

Reduction of phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription-5 expression in feline mammary carcinoma.

Signal transducers and activators of transcription (STATs) are a family of transcription factors involved in various normal physiological cellular processes. Moreover, STATs have been recently identified as novel therapeutic targets for various human tumors. STAT3, STAT5a, and STAT6 have been suggested to be involved in tumorigenesis in human breast cancer. Owing to the similarity between feline mammary carcinomas (FMCs) and human breast cancers, these factors may play an important role in FMCs. However, studies on the expression of STATs in animal tumors are limited. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to characterize the expression of total STAT5 (tSTAT5) and phosphorylated STAT5 (pSTAT5) in FMCs, feline mammary adenomas, non-neoplastic proliferative mammary gland lesions, and normal feline mammary glands using immunohistochemistry. High expression of tSTAT5 was observed in the cytoplasm of all the samples assessed in this study. Moreover, high expression of tSTAT5 was observed in the nucleus; however, its levels varied depending on the lesion. The percentage of pSTAT5-nuclear positive cells varied among normal feline mammary glands (40.1 ± 25.1%), and non-neoplastic lesions, including mammary hyperplasia (43.2 ± 28.6%) and fibroadenomatous changes (18.0 ± 13.6%). Moreover, the percentage of pSTAT5-nuclear-positive cells in feline mammary adenomas was 24.5 ± 19.2%, which was significantly reduced in feline mammary carcinomas (2.4 ± 5.6%), regardless of histopathological subtype. This study suggests that decreased STAT5 activity may be involved in the development and malignant progression of feline mammary carcinomas.

SOX-10 and TRP-1 expression in feline ocular and nonocular melanomas.

In felines, ocular and nonocular melanomas are uncommon tumors that represent a diagnostic challenge for pathologists, especially when amelanotic. To date, the immunohistochemical diagnostic panel in cats is based on specific melanocytic markers (Melan-A and PNL2) and a nonspecific but sensitive marker (S100). In human medicine, SOX-10 is reported to be a sensitive antibody for the detection of melanoma micrometastasis in the lymph node. TRP-1, an enzyme involved in melanogenesis, has recently been used in humans and dogs as a specific melanocyte marker. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cross-reactivity and the expression of SOX-10 and TRP-1 antibodies in feline normal tissue and melanocytic tumors. Thirty-one cases of ocular, cutaneous, and oral melanomas were retrospectively evaluated and confirmed by histopathological examination and by immunolabeling with Melan-A and/or PNL2. SOX-10 nuclear expression in normal tissues was localized in epidermal, subepidermal, hair bulb, and iridal stromal melanocytes and dermal nerves. In melanomas, nuclear expression of SOX-10 was detected in ocular (11/12; 92%), oral (6/7; 86%), and cutaneous sites (12/12; 100%). TRP-1 cytoplasmic immunolabeling in normal tissue was observed in epidermal and bulbar melanocytes and in the lining pigmented epithelium of the iris and in its stroma. Its expression was positively correlated to the degree of pigmentation in the tumor and was observed in 75% of ocular (9/12), 43% of oral (3/7), and 33% of cutaneous melanomas (4/12). This study demonstrated the cross-reactivity of SOX-10 and TRP-1 antibodies in feline non-neoplastic melanocytes and their expression in ocular and nonocular melanomas.

Expression of mPGES1 and p16 in feline and human oral squamous cell carcinoma: A comparative oncology approach.

Comparative cancer studies help us determine if discoveries in one species apply to another. Feline and human oral squamous cell carcinoma (FOSCC and HOSCC) are invasive tumours in which inflammation and abnormal p16 expression are reported. Immunohistochemistry was used to determine the expression of p16 and microsomal prostaglandin E2 synthase 1 (mPGES1) in 42 HOSCC and 45 FOSCC samples with known expression of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2) and cluster of differentiation 147 (CD147). High p16 expression was more common in HOSCC tumour cells compared to adjacent stroma and oral epithelium (p < .05), with a similar but statistically nonsignificant pattern in FOSCC. Interestingly, high mPGES1 expression in FOSCC was more common in the adjacent epithelium compared to the other compartments (p < .05). In HOSCC, mPGES1 was more similar between compartments but was numerically more common in the tumour compartment (p > .05). There were nominal (p > 0.05) differences in marker expression between high and low mPGES1 expressing tumours in both species, including high p16 observed more commonly in high mPGES1 tumours, and COX-2 positive tumours being more common in low mPGES1 tumours. High CD147 HOSCC tumours were more common in the high mPGES1 HOSCC group (p < .05). In the FOSCC cohort, where there was no statistical difference in CD147 expression between high and low mPGES1 tumours, there were numerically higher CD147 cases in the high mPGES1group. Different expression patterns in FOSCC and HOSCC could be related to different risk factors. For example, p16 is a marker of papillomavirus-driven HOSCC, but a causal relationship between papillomaviruses and FOSCC has yet to be definitively demonstrated. The significance of high P16 expression in the absence of papillomavirus infection deserves further study, and the relative contributions of COX2 and mPGES1 to tumour inflammation and progression should be explored. The findings reveal potential similarities in FOSCC and HOSCC biology, while also demonstrating differences that may relate to risk factors and pathogenesis that are unique to each species.

Pyometra alters the redox status and expression of estrogen and progesterone receptors in the uterus of domestic cats.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression profile of sex steroid receptors and redox mediators in the uterus of domestic cats with pyometra. METHODS: Twelve cats were used and divided into groups: (1) non-gestational healthy diestrus (n = 7) and (2) pyometra (n = 5). The plasma profiles of estradiol and progesterone (P4) as well as uterine expression levels of estradiol alpha (ERα), progesterone (PR) and androgen (AR) receptors, of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), catalase and glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1), and of the oxidative damage marker 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) were evaluated. RESULTS: Cats with pyometra showed higher plasma P4 levels and increased uterine messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression of ERα and PR, mainly in the glandular epithelium for ERα and in stromal and myometrial cells for PR. In addition, there was an increase in 8-OHdG immunostaining and GPX1 mRNA and protein expression in cats with pyometra compared with those in non-gestational diestrus, while catalase showed a reduction in endometrial immunostaining in cats with pyometra. There were no differences in uterine AR and SOD1 expression between the groups. CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE: The findings of this study showed that pyometra is associated with oxidative stress in the uterus of domestic cats and alterations of the profile of sex steroid receptors, especially ERα and PR, and of antioxidant enzymes, suggesting that changes in these mediators may play a role with the etiopathogenesis of this disease.

Diabetes mellitus drug discovery: insights into targeting feline and human amylin with small molecules.

BACKGROUND: Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a health concern for both humans and cats, with cases rising over the past decade. Around 70% of patients from either species exhibit pancreatic aggregates of islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP), a protein that proves toxic upon misfolding. These misfolded protein aggregates congregate in the islets of Langerhans of the pancreas, diminishing the capability of ß-cells to produce insulin and further perpetuating disease. OBJECTIVE: Our team's drug discovery program is investigating newly synthesized compounds that could diminish aggregates of both human and feline IAPP, potentially disrupting the progression of T2D. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We prepared 24 compounds derived from diaryl urea, as ureas have previously demonstrated great potential at reducing accumulations of misfolded proteins. Biophysical methods were employed to analyze the anti-aggregation activity of these compounds at inhibiting and/or disrupting IAPP fibril formation in vitro. RESULTS: The results demonstrate that compounds 12 and 24 were most effective at reducing the fibrillization and aggregation of both human and feline IAPP. When compared with the control for each experiment, samples treated with either compound 12 or 24 exhibited fewer accumulations of amyloid-like fibrils. CONCLUSION: Urea-based compounds, such as compounds 12 and 24, may prove crucial in future pre-clinical studies in the search for therapeutics for T2D.

Amelioration of DSS-induced colitis in mice by TNF-α-stimulated mesenchymal stem cells derived from feline adipose tissue via COX-2/PGE2 activation.

BACKGROUND: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been investigated as therapeutic agents for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Stimulation of MSCs with pro-inflammatory cytokines is an approach to enhance their immunomodulatory effects. However, further investigation is required to support their application in immune-mediated disorders and companion animals. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to assess the therapeutic effect of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α-stimulated feline adipose tissue-derived MSCs (fAT-MSCs) in a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis mouse model. METHODS: Colitis mice was made by drinking water with 3% DSS and fAT-MSCs were injected intraperitoneally. Colons were collected on day 10. The severity of the disease was evaluated and compared. Raw 264.7 cells were cultured with the conditioned medium to determine the mechanism, using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS: TNF-α-stimulated fAT-MSCs more improved severity of DSS-induced colitis in disease activity, colon length, histologic score, and inflammatory cytokine. In sectionized colon tissues, the group comprising TNF-α-stimulated fAT-MSCs had higher proportion of CD11b+CD206+ macrophages than in the other groups. In vitro, TNF-α-stimulation increased cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) secretion from fAT-MSCs. The conditioned medium from TNF-α-stimulated fAT-MSCs enhanced the expression of interleukin-10 and arginase-1 in LPS-activated Raw 264.7 cells. CONCLUSIONS: These results represent that TNF-α-stimulated fat-mscs ameliorate the inflamed colon more effectively. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the effectiveness was interlinked with the COX-2/PGE2 pathway.

Estimated Dermal Penetration of Tetrachlorvinphos (TCVP) in Humans Based on In Silico Modeling and In Vitro and In Vivo Data.

Tetrachlorvinphos (TCVP) is the pesticidal active ingredient in some collars for dogs and cats. The objective of this study was to provide a refined estimate of dermal penetration of TCVP in humans using in silico predictions as well as in vitro and in vivo data. The in vivo dermal absorption of TCVP was previously studied in the rat and shown to be saturable, ranging from 21.7% (10 µg/cm2) down to 3% (1000 µg/cm2) Subsequent in silico predictions were conducted for rats and humans to provide initial evaluations of species and dose-dependent differences in dermal absorption. A definitive comparison of TCVP systemic exposure in rat and human following dermal application was then conducted via a standard in vitro assay. TCVP dose levels of 10, 100, or 1000 µg/cm2 were applied to excised rat and human skin mounted in flow-through diffusion cells. The vehicle was 1% hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC) in water. An additional 5 µg/cm2 dose was applied to excised human skin only. The in vitro dermal absorption of TCVP was also assessed from artificial sebum at dose levels of 5, 10, or 100 µg/cm2 applied to human skin only. Utilizing the so-called triple pack approach with in vitro and in vivo rat data and in vitro human data, dermal absorption for TCVP was calculated for humans. In silico modeling indicated absorption of TCVP through human skin might be 3- to 4- fold lower than rat skin at all application levels, with a maximum dermal absorption of 9.6% at the lowest exposure of 10 µg/cm2, down to 0.1% at 1000 µg/cm2. Similar species differences were also found in the definitive in vitro absorption assays. Modeling overestimated TCVP human dermal absorption (9.6%) as compared to excised human skin results (1.7%) for the HPMC vehicle at the lowest exposure (10 µg/cm2), with better agreement at the higher exposures. Conversely, modeling accurately predicted rat dermal absorption (27.9%) as compared to in vivo rat results (21.7%) at the lowest exposure in HPMC, with diminished agreement at the higher exposures. As a first approximation, in silico estimates of dermal absorption are useful; however, these tend to be more variable than in vitro or in vivo measurements. TCVP dermal penetration measured in vitro was lower in 1% HPMC vehicle as compared to artificial sebum. For the 1% HPMC vehicle, in vitro rat dermal absorption was similar to data obtained for in vivo rats, giving confidence in the triple pack approach. In consideration of the triple pack approach, estimated human dermal absorption from 1% HPMC was ≤2%. Based upon excised human skin determinations directly, estimated human dermal absorption of TCVP from artificial sebum was ≤7%.

Obesity-induced changes in gene expression in feline adipose and skeletal muscle tissue.

Indoor-confined cats are prone to developing obesity due to a sedentary life and an energy intake exceeding energy requirements. As in humans, feline obesity decreases insulin sensitivity and increases the risk of developing feline diabetes mellitus, but the pathophysiological mechanisms are currently poorly understood. Human obesity-related metabolic alterations seem to relate to changes in the expression of genes involved in glucose metabolism, insulin action and inflammation. The objective of the current study was to investigate changes in the expression of genes relating to obesity, glucose metabolism and inflammation in cats with non-experimentally induced obesity. Biopsies from the sartorius muscle and subcutaneous adipose tissue were obtained from 73 healthy, neutered, indoor-confined domestic shorthaired cats ranging from lean to obese. Quantification of obesity-related gene expression levels relative to glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase was performed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. A negative association between obesity and adiponectin expression was observed in the adipose tissue (mean ± SD; normal weight, 27.30 × 10-3 ± 77.14 × 10-3 ; overweight, 2.89 × 10-3 ± 0.38 × 10-3 and obese, 2.93 × 10-3 ± 4.20 × 10-3 , p < 0.05). In muscle, the expression of peroxisome proliferative activated receptor-γ2 and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 was increased in the obese compared to the normal-weight cats, and resistin was increased in the normal-weight compared to the overweight cats. There were no detectable obesity-related changes in the messenger RNA levels of inflammatory cytokines. In conclusion, a possible obesity-related low-grade inflammation caused by increased expression of key proinflammatory regulators was not observed. This could imply that the development of feline obesity and ensuing insulin resistance may not be based on tissue-derived inflammation, but caused by several determining factors, many of which still need further investigation.

Ezrin immunoexpression in gastric cells of domestic cats infected with Helicobacter spp.

The aim of this study was to evaluate de immunoexpression of ezrin in gastric cells of domestic cats infected with Helicobacter spp. and with chronic gastritis. Twenty paraffin-embedded gastric samples were selected based on previous positive results for Helicobacter spp. in the Rapid Urease Test, Warthin-Starry staining and cytology. Haematoxylin-eosin stained sections was done to evaluate inflammatory cell infiltrates. Immunohistochemical analysis was done using anti-Helicobacter pylori and anti-Ezrin antibodies. The analysis of inflammatory infiltrates revealed 8/20 (40%) in score 0, 11/20 (55%) in score 1 and 1/20 (5%) in score 2. The labelling observed in the immunohistochemical analysis using anti-Helicobacter spp. antibody showed no samples with score 0; 4/20 (20%) with score 1; 7/20 35% with score 2 and 9/20 (45%) with score 3. Ezrin overexpression on the cytoplasm of parietal cells was revealed in 18 out of 20 samples (90%). Of these, 10 cases (45%) achieved the score 1; 6 cases (30%) the score 2 and 2 cases (10%) the score 3. On the surface and pit cells there was an increase in Ezrin immnoexpression in 12 out of the 20 samples (60%), of which 8 samples (40%) achieved the score 1 and 4 samples (20%) the score 2. No sample were classified in score 3. Statistically significant differences (p = 0.026) were observed between the inflammatory infiltrate in the gastric mucosa and the immunoexpression of Ezrin in the cytoplasm of parietal cells. It was concluded that ezrin had an increased immunoexpression in the gastric mucosa of cats with chronic gastritis.

Establishment of a direct 2.5D organoid culture model using companion animal cancer tissues.

Like humans, cancer affects companion animals with similar genetic risks and incident rates. To improve treatment strategies for pet cancers, new research models are necessary. Patient-derived 3D organoid culture models are valuable and ensure the development of new effective therapies. In the previous study, we established a 3D organoid-derived 2.5D organoid culture model that recapitulated some characteristics of their parental 3D organoids. In the present study, we aimed to generate a 2.5D organoid culture model directly from cancer-diseased dogs and cats using special 2.5D media. The primary cultured cells in 2.5D media (direct 2.5D organoids) showed better attachment, growth, marker expression, and faster proliferation speed than those cultured in normal Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium media. The direct 2.5D organoids showed expression of each specific marker to their original cancer tissues and exhibited tumorigenesis in vivo. Moreover, the direct 2.5D organoids exhibited concentration-dependent responses to anti-cancer drugs, and different sensitivity profiles were shown among the strains. Our data suggest that the direct 2.5D organoid culture model might become a useful tool beyond 2D cell lines to study cancer biology in companion animals and could provide new platforms for screening the anti-cancer drugs.

Effect of tetra-hydroxylated bile acid on size and insulin sensitivity of subcutaneous adipocytes in healthy lean cats.

Obesity leads to insulin resistance and is a major risk factor for the development of diabetes mellitus in cats. Prevention of obesity and obesity-induced insulin resistance is difficult, and reliable long-term strategies are currently lacking. Retinoid-related orphan receptor gamma (RORγ) was recently identified as an important transcription factor in the development of large insulin-resistant adipocytes in mice and humans. RORγ negatively affects adipocyte differentiation through expression of its target gene matrix metalloproteinase 3 (MMP3) and promotes the development of large insulin-resistant adipocytes. Preliminary studies in mice showed that RORγ can be inhibited by its ligand tetra-hydroxylated bile acid (THBA). In the present study, serum THBA levels were determined in healthy and diabetic cats. Moreover, potential side effects and the effects of THBA supplementation on adipocyte size, mRNA expression of RORγ, MMP3, interleukin 6, tumor necrosis factor α, adiponectin and leptin in feline subcutaneous adipocytes and insulin sensitivity were investigated in healthy normal weight cats. Thirteen healthy and 13 diabetic cats were used for determination of serum THBA level, and six healthy normal-weight cats were included in a feeding trial. Similar THBA levels were determined in serum of healthy and diabetic cats. Supplementation of 5 mg/kg THBA for 8 wk did not cause any negative effect on feeding behavior, general condition and blood parameters of tested cats. It significantly reduced adipocyte size and mRNA expression of MMP3, interleukin 6, and tumor necrosis factor α in adipocytes, while mRNA expression of adiponectin significantly increased and mRNA expression of RORγ and leptin remained unchanged. Administration of THBA did not influence fasting blood glucose levels or the response of cats to acute insulin administration. Based on these results, THBA is palatable and is considered safe for use in cats. It reduces expression of MMP3 and promotes the development of small adipocytes with increased expression of adiponectin and reduced expression of interleukin 6 and tumor necrosis factor α. Further studies are recommended to evaluate the effect of THBA on adipocyte size and insulin sensitivity in obese cats.

Characterization of the intrarenal renin-angiotensin system in cats with naturally occurring chronic kidney disease.

BACKGROUND: The role of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system in cats with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is incompletely understood. OBJECTIVE: To characterize components of the intrarenal renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in cats with CKD. ANIMALS: Eleven cats with naturally occurring CKD (CKD group) and 8 healthy control cats. METHODS: Renal tissue samples were evaluated by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction for renin, angiotensinogen, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), and angiotensin II type 1 receptor transcript levels, and by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry for quantification of angiotensin I, II, III, and IV concentrations. Linear mixed models were used to compare gene transcript levels and concentrations of angiotensin peptides between groups. RESULTS: Cats of the CKD group were significantly older (P < .001) and more likely to be neutered (P = .007) than healthy control cats. Kidneys from cats with CKD had significantly higher transcript levels of angiotensinogen (P < .001) and lower transcript levels of ACE (P < .001) than those from control cats. Renal angiotensin I concentrations were increased in CKD compared with control kidneys (P = .001). No other significant differences in renal transcript levels or angiotensin peptide concentrations were noted between groups. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: The intrarenal RAS might be activated in cats with CKD. Small sample size and differences in age, neuter status, and dietary sodium intake between groups might have limited the ability to identify a significant difference in concentration of renal angiotensin II.

Identification of the interleukin-8 (CXCL-8) pathway in feline oral squamous cell carcinoma - A pilot study.

The purpose of this pilot study was to detect the presence of interleukin-8 (IL-8) and the potential downstream effects of IL-8 receptor activation in 2 previously characterized feline oral squamous cell carcinoma cell lines (SCCF1 and SCCF2). Interleukin-8 messenger RNA (mRNA) was initially detected by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). A previously validated and commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test was used to measure IL-8 production in the supernatant of the 2 cell lines. Western blot was used to detect phosphorylation of proteins (AKT, ERK1/2, JAK2, STAT3, and Src), known to be downstream of interleukin-8 receptor activation. The IL-8 receptor-specific antagonists, Reparixin and SCH527123, were used to identify effects on phosphorylation of these proteins. Interleukin-8 mRNA and protein were detected in both SCCF1 and SCCF2 by RT-PCR and ELISA, respectively. Phosphorylation of ERK1/2, STAT3, and Src was detected in both cell lines. Inhibition of the IL-8 receptor led to a decrease in phosphorylation of Src, but not ERK1/2 or STAT3. In conclusion, feline squamous cell carcinoma cell lines can produce IL-8. Phosphorylation of Src seems, at least in part, a consequence of IL-8 receptor activation. The phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and STAT3, although present, seems independent of IL-8 receptor activation. Due to its potential effects on the tumor microenvironment, in addition to its autocrine effects on Src phosphorylation, the inhibition of the IL-8 receptor may become a beneficial therapeutic tool. Evaluation of the presence of both IL-8 and Src in many cases should elucidate their importance.

Le but de cette étude pilote était de détecter la présence d'interleukine-8 (IL-8) et les effets potentiels en aval de l'activation du récepteur IL-8 dans deux lignées cellulaires de carcinome épidermoïde oral félin (SCCF1 et SCCF2) précédemment caractérisées. L'ARN messager de l'interleukine-8 (ARNm) a été initialement détecté par amplification en chaîne par la polymérase à transcription inverse quantitative (qRT-PCR). Un test immuno-enzymatique ELISA précédemment validé et disponible dans le commerce a été utilisé pour mesurer la production d'IL-8 dans le surnageant des deux lignées cellulaires. L'immunobuvardage a été utilisé pour détecter la phosphorylation des protéines (AKT, ERK1/2, JAK2, STAT3 et Src), connues pour être en aval de l'activation du récepteur de l'interleukine-8. Les antagonistes spécifiques du récepteur IL-8, Reparixin et SCH527123, ont été utilisés pour identifier les effets sur la phosphorylation de ces protéines. L'ARNm et la protéine de l'interleukine-8 ont été détectés dans SCCF1 et SCCF2 par RT-PCR et ELISA, respectivement. La phosphorylation de ERK1/2, STAT3 et Src a été détectée dans les deux lignées cellulaires. L'inhibition du récepteur IL-8 a conduit à une diminution de la phosphorylation de Src, mais pas ERK1/2 ou STAT3. En conclusion, les lignées cellulaires de carcinome épidermoïde félin sont capables de produire de l'IL-8. La phosphorylation de Src semble, au moins en partie, une conséquence de l'activation du récepteur IL-8. La phosphorylation de ERK1/2 et STAT3, bien que présente, semble indépendante de l'activation du récepteur IL-8. En raison de ses effets potentiels sur le micro-environnement tumoral, en plus de ses effets autocrines sur la phosphorylation de Src, l'inhibition du récepteur IL-8 peut devenir un outil thérapeutique bénéfique. L'évaluation de la présence à la fois d'IL-8 et de Src dans un grand nombre de cas devrait élucider leur importance.(Traduit par Docteur Serge Messier).

A feline-focused review of chronic kidney disease-mineral and bone disorders - Part 1: Physiology of calcium handling.

Mineral derangements are a common consequence of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Despite the well-established role of phosphorus in the pathophysiology of CKD, the implications of calcium disturbances associated with CKD remain equivocal. Calcium plays an essential role in numerous physiological functions in the body and is a fundamental structural component of bone. An understanding of calcium metabolism is required to understand the potential adverse clinical implications and outcomes secondary to the (mal)adaptation of calcium-regulating hormones in CKD. The first part of this two-part review covers the physiology of calcium homeostasis (kidneys, intestines and bones) and details the intimate relationships between calcium-regulating hormones (parathyroid hormone, calcitriol, fibroblast growth factor 23, α-Klotho and calcitonin) and the role of the calcium-sensing receptor.

Hippo signaling pathway in companion animal diseases, an under investigated signaling cascade.

The Hippo pathway is a highly conserved kinase cascade in mammals with the proteins YAP and TAZ as its most important downstream effectors that shuttle between cytoplasma and nucleus. It has a crucial role in processes such as embryogenesis, organ size control, homeostasis and tissue regeneration, where mechanosensing and/or cell-cell interactions are involved. As the pathway is associated with many essential functions in the body, its dysregulation is related to many diseases. In contrast to human pathology, a PubMed-search on Hippo, YAP/TAZ and companion animals (horse, equine, dog, canine, cat, feline) retrieved few publications. Because of its high level of functional conservation, it is anticipated that also in veterinary sciences aberrant Hippo YAP/TAZ signaling would be implicated in animal pathologies. Publications on Hippo YAP/TAZ in companion animals are mainly in cats and dogs and related to oncology. Here, we emphasize the important role of YAP/TAZ in liver diseases. First the liver has a remarkable regeneration capacity and a strict size control and the liver has a moderate liver cell renewal (homeostasis). The last years numerous papers show the importance of YAP/TAZ in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), hepatocyte differentiation and bile duct epithelial (BEC) cell survival. YAP/TAZ signaling is involved in activation of hepatic stellate cells crucial in fibrogenesis. The availability of drugs (e.g. verteporfin) targeting the YAP/TAZ pathway are described as is their potential usage in veterinary medicine. The aim of this overview is to stimulate researchers' and clinicians' interest in the potential role of Hippo YAP/TAZ signaling in veterinary medicine.

Absence of known feline MYH7 and MYBPC3 variants in a diverse cohort of cats with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most common cause of heart disease in the domestic cat with a genetic predisposition in a few breeds. In the Maine Coon and Ragdoll breeds, two variants associated with the HCM phenotype have been identified in the cardiac myosin binding protein C gene (MYBPC3; p.Ala31Pro and p.Arg820Trp respectively), and a single variant has been identified in the myosin heavy chain gene (MYH7; p.Glu1883Lys) in one domestic cat with HCM. It is not known if these variants influence the development of HCM in other cohorts of the feline population. The objective of this study was to evaluate the presence of the known MYBPC3 and MYH7 variants in a population of cats with HCM. DNA was isolated from samples collected from non-Ragdoll and non-Maine Coon domestic cats diagnosed with HCM through the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine and genotyped for the three variants. One-hundred and three DNA samples from cats with HCM were evaluated from domestic shorthair, domestic longhair and purebred cats. All samples were wt for the MYBPC3 and MYH7 variants. Although this study was limited by its inclusion of cats from one tertiary hospital, the lack of these MYBPC3 and MYH7 variants in this feline HCM population indicates that the clinical utility of genetic testing for these variants may be isolated to the two cat breeds in which these variants have been identified. Further studies to identify the causative variants for the feline HCM population are warranted.