Predictors of Acute Cerebellar Bulge Prior to Posterior Fossa Lesion Resection.

OBJECTIVE: A cerebellar bulge prior to posterior fossa resection is an emergency condition during surgery. Intraoperative cerebellar bulging not only increases the difficulty of lesion resection but also brings additional postoperative complications. Currently, there are few systematic reports on this topic. The predictors of cerebellar bulge and how to effectively prevent intraoperative cerebellar bulge are discussed in this article. METHODS: The clinical and imaging data of 527 patients with posterior fossa lesions who underwent resection at our hospital were retrospectively collected and analyzed. Perioperative clinical and imaging data were assessed. Variables were analyzed using univariate and multivariate regression analyses. RESULTS: Overall, 10.4% (55/527) of patients had intraoperative acute bulges. Multivariate analysis revealed that age <60 years, body mass index ≥24, lesion size ≥30 (mm), cerebellar tonsillar herniation and/or hydrocephalus, and perilesional edema (moderate-severe) were predictors of cerebellar bulging. Relief of the cerebellar bulge can be accomplished by excising the lesion, releasing cerebrospinal fluid, and removing the cerebellum (the outer one-third). Obvious cerebellar-related complications occurred in 4 patients postoperatively, and the symptoms disappeared after 6 months of follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Cerebellar bulging during intraoperative posterior fossa resection deserves attention. Through the analysis of multiple factors related to cerebellar bulge, comprehensive evaluation and early intervention during the perioperative period are necessary. The incidence of cerebellar bulges can be reduced, and surgical complications related to cerebellar bulges can be avoided.

Approach to a cerebral hernia caused by an intratumoral hemorrhage of a cystic oligodendroglioma: a case report.

The incidence of cerebral herniation caused by intratumoral hemorrhage (ITH) in cystic oligodendroglioma (COD) is exceedingly rare. This study presents a case of cerebral herniation subsequent to cystic oligodendroglioma (COD) and sudden intratumoral hemorrhage. Following initial emergency treatment and evaluation, we successfully circumvented the solid component of the tumor and proceeded with cystic puncture and external drainage to prevent the incidence of brain herniation and mitigate the severity of associated symptoms. Based on preoperative examination results, the cystic glioma was successfully resected, and the patient experienced an uneventful recovery. According to the pathological findings, the oligodendroglioma was classified as World Health Organization (WHO) grade III. The treatment efficacy was comparable to cases of the same pathological grade, in which neither intratumoral hemorrhage nor cerebral hernia was observed.

Hemorrhagic cerebral venous infarction after vein injury during intraoperative lesion resection: incidence, hemorrhagic stages, risk factors and prognosis.

Objective: Cerebral venous infarction (CVI) after vein injury during intraoperative lesion resection is associated with intracranial hemorrhage. We conducted this study to identify the incidence, clinical and imaging features, and prognosis of hemorrhage CVI. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of patients with confirmed CVI after vein injury who underwent craniotomy in our hospital. Postoperative clinical symptoms were observed, and imaging features were compared between patients with and without intracranial hemorrhages through CT examination. Variables were analyzed using univariate and multivariate regression analyses. Results: Among 2,767 patients who underwent craniotomy, 93 cases of injured veins were identified intraoperatively. Hemorrhagic CVI was found in 38% (35/93). Multivariate analysis revealed that midline approach, meningioma, postoperative seizures, disorders of consciousness and interval in hours < 72 h were identified as predictors of hemorrhagic CVI. After 3 months of follow-up, the prognosis was poor in 15 cases (16%, 15/93), including death (two cases), vegetative survival (four cases), and severe disability (nine cases). Conclusions: Hemorrhagic CVI, as a critical complication after venous injury, can have disastrous consequences. Do not injure known veins intraoperatively. In case of injury, requisite remedial measures should be adopted during and after surgery.

Superficial meningioma with bone involvement: surgical strategies and clinical outcomes.

INTRODUCTION: Meningiomas with bone involvement account for 4.5-17% of all intracranial meningiomas. Little is known about whether these meningiomas (WHO grade I) behave differently than meningiomas without bone involvement. We sought to study the relatively uncommon imaging manifestations of meningioma and to evaluate their clinical significance. METHODS: A single-institution retrospective cohort study of surgically treated superficial meningioma patients between 2011 and 2022 was conducted. Age, sex, preoperative imaging, operative data, and surgical outcomes were reviewed. Imaging variables and outcomes were reported for patients with bone-invading meningiomas and compared with those with nonbone-invading meningiomas. Univariate analyses were also conducted. RESULTS: Of 577 total superficial meningiomas treated surgically, 47 (8.1%) exhibited bone invasion. Most bone-invading meningiomas were parasagittal (n = 29, 61.7%). A total of 12.7% (n = 6) of patients with bone-invading meningioma had recurrence, whereas 9.1% (n = 48) of patients with non-bone-invading meningioma had recurrence (p = 0.426). No significant difference in the median time to recurrence was observed between patients with bone-invading meningiomas and patients with nonbone-invading meningiomas (69.8 months, Q1:53.1; Q3:81.4 months vs. 69.7 months, Q1:47.5; Q3:96.7; p = 0.638). CONCLUSIONS: Superficial meningioma with bone involvement had similar outcomes compared to those of superficial meningioma without bone involvement. Hyperostosis in meningioma (WHO grade I) may not be a surrogate for aggressive meningioma behavior.

A Retrospective Study for Labia Minora Reduction by Serrated-shaped Resection.

Background: The demand for genital plastic surgery has increased dramatically among female patients globally. Although various labia minora reduction procedures have been applied with different indications, advantages, and disadvantages, none has been universally accepted as the best method. So, we presented an innovative strategy for this increasingly demanded reconstructive procedure. Methods: In this retrospective study, we included 29 patients seen between November 2020 and May 2023 with hypertrophic labia minora. The patients with hypertrophic labia minora after serrated-shaped resection were included for analysis. Patient satisfaction and complications were evaluated through the follow-up after the operation. Results: Patients with a mean age of 27.1 years (range 19-47 y) performed labia minora reduction via serrated-shaped resection. One patient experienced incision dehiscence, requiring additional surgical revision. One patient experienced postoperative cosmetic asymmetry and also performed secondary repair surgery. One patient experienced urinary retention, which was relieved after urinary catheterization. High overall patient satisfaction has been achieved after a median follow-up of 6.7 months (range 1-24 months). No flap necrosis, sexual dysfunction, or hypertrophic scarring has been reported. Conclusions: Results suggested that serrated-shaped resection is a novel technique for repairing hypertrophic labia minora with high efficiency and satisfaction. The procedure could effectively improve the appearance of the labia minora and reduce complications.

Precise location of the ventricular catheter tip in ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement guided by 3D printed individualized guide.

OBJECTIVE: Improper placement of the ventricular catheter tip is the most common cause of shunting disorders after ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) placement surgery. Here, through two illustrative cases, we described a novel method of precise ventricular catheter tip location. METHODS: Three-dimensional (3D) Slicer software was used to define the ventricle puncture path and determine the ventricle catheter tip location preoperatively, and the 3D individualized guide model was printed. RESULTS: The ventricular puncture was performed under the guidance of the 3D guide to achieve precise ventricle catheter tip location intraoperatively. CONCLUSIONS: This technique is safe, simple, efficient and cost-effective, which facilitates its clinical implementation and promotion.

Salvation of Temporalis Muscle in Cranioplasty: A Technique Note.

OBJECTIVE: The preservation of the temporalis muscle during cranioplasty is very important for postoperative masticatory function and aesthetics. The key technique for temporalis muscle preservation is to find the surgical plane during the operation. METHODS: In the past, the so-called antiadhesion method could not be used to find the surgical plane very well. Here, we describe a novel method for separating the temporalis muscle and dura through an illustrative case, utilizing the natural space of the temporalis muscle at the bony border attachment point. RESULTS: The temporalis muscle is stretched by a wire saw to find the surgical plane quickly and accurately, maximizing the preservation of the temporalis muscle without damaging the dura. CONCLUSIONS: The technical effect is ideal, the operation is simple, and the technique is suitable for promotion.

Comparisons of the effects of topical anti-scar drugs on post-surgical facial scar formation: a clinical investigation.

OBJECTIVES: Scarring is a common but intricate problem, and topical anti-scarring drugs are the most widely used treatment. However, the wide range of drugs available makes it difficult for doctors and patients to choose from because of the lack of clinical comparisons. Therefore, we conducted an observational study to compare the clinical efficacy of different topical anti-scarring drugs. METHODS: Patients with post-suturing facial scars were enrolled in this study. The questionnaire was designed to record the basic characteristics of the patients. The Vancouver Scar Scale, SCAR scale, and measurements of scar width and thickness were used to evaluate scar quality. Patients who met the inclusion criteria were divided into four groups for comparison: the silicone preparation (SP), onion extract (OE), asiaticoside (AC) groups, and the untreated blank control (BC) group. The overall data were analyzed before they were confined to the zygomatic region. RESULTS: A total of 127 eligible patients were enrolled in this study. The results of the total and zygomatic scars demonstrated that SP, OE, and AC groups resulted in narrower scars and lower scar scale scores. The SP group depicted higher melanin efficacy than the other two groups. The OE group had the best pliability, whereas the AC group had the thinnest scar. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, we acquired expertise with different topical anti-scar agents: SP significantly reduced melanin levels, OE mainly benefited scar pliability, and AC was better at reducing scar thickness. These differences may be more instructive for clinical applications.

Intraparenchymal atypical meningioma in the posterior fossa: a case report and literature review.

Intraparenchymal meningiomas without dural attachments are extremely rare. A 32-year-old female adult was admitted to our hospital, complaining of occasional dizziness. The patient had no neurological deficits. MRI demonstrated a lesion with mild edema located in the left cerebellar parenchyma. CT revealed calcification within the mass. Gross total resection was achieved. The histopathological examination indicated that the lesion was an atypical meningioma (WHO-II). We herein report an extremely rare case of an intraparenchymal meningioma located in the left cerebellar hemisphere. The significance of the differential diagnosis of lesions in the cerebellum should be emphasized.

Risk factors influencing cerebral venous infarction after meningioma resection.

BACKGROUND: Cerebral venous infarction (CVI) is a serious complication after meningioma resection. The risk factors of postoperative cerebral venous infarction after surgical resection of meningioma can be determined through large samples and this study can add evidence to the literature. METHODS: The clinical and imaging data of 1127 patients with intracranial meningiomas who underwent resection in our hospital were retrospectively collected and analyzed. CVI was evaluated by postoperative imaging and clinical manifestations. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify risk factors associated with CVI. RESULTS: Overall, 4.7% (53/1127) of patients experienced CVI after meningioma resection. Multivariate analysis revealed superficial meningioma, moderate to severe peritumoral edema, peritumoral critical vein and WHO grade II-III as independent predictors of a postoperative CVI. After timely intervention, the symptoms were clearly alleviated in one month, and the prognosis was good, but injury to key veins could cause irreversible neurological disorders. CONCLUSIONS: Intraoperative protection of veins is the primary way to prevent CVI. The present study identified several significant and independent risk factors for postoperative venous infarction, thereby enabling the identification of high-risk patients who require special attention during clinical and surgical management.

Early Unplanned Reoperation After Glioma Craniotomy: Incidence, Predictor and Process Improvement.

Objective: To evaluate the rate of, reasons for, and predictors of unplanned reoperation after craniotomy for glioma in a single-institution consecutive series. Methods: Patients who underwent glioma resection at our hospital from 2015 to 2021 were included (n=1563). Multivariate logistic regression was used to examine the predictors of early unplanned cranial reoperation. The predictors that were screened included patient age, sex, tumor properties, blood loss, blood pressure and antiplatelets drugs usage. Results: A total of 3.6% (56/1563) of the patients underwent an early unplanned reoperation after craniotomy for glioma. The reasons for early unplanned reoperation were brain edema (48.2%), cerebral infarction (33.9%) and hemorrhage (17.9%). The predictors of early unplanned reoperation were WHO grade III-IV, peritumoral edema ≥1 cm, subtotal resection, arterial/venous involvement and elevation in blood pressure ≥50 mmHg. Conclusions: Glioma properties and blood pressure management are decisive predictors of early unplanned reoperation for glioma resection. The authors provide a nuanced discussion regarding early unplanned reoperations and perioperative process improvement as a quality indicator for glioma patient populations.

Preoperative antiepileptic drug prophylaxis for early postoperative seizures in supratentorial meningioma: a single-center experience.

OBJECTIVE: Perioperative antiepileptic drug (AED) prophylaxis for early postoperative seizures (EPSs) in patients with supratentorial meningiomas without preoperative seizures is controversial. This paper discusses the incidence, risk factors, control rate and AED withdrawal indications of EPS in patients undergoing supratentorial convexity and parasagittal/falx meningioma resection without preoperative seizures. METHODS: Patients treated for a histologically confirmed supratentorial convexity and parasagittal/falx meningioma at the authors' institution between 2015 and 2021 were retrospectively examined. Clinical and imaging data were assessed. Variates were analyzed using univariate and multivariate regression analyses. A PubMed review of the literature published between 2011 and 2021 was performed. RESULTS: In total, 517 patients met the selection criteria. EPS (within the first postoperative week) was observed in 30/517 cases (5.8%). Multivariate analysis revealed that surgical/medical complications (OR 16.33, 95% CI 7.07-37.7, P < 0.001) were the only independent predictors of EPS. The dose of valproic was increased and levetiracetam was added based on the frequency of seizures (≤ 2, > 2 times and status epilepticus). EPS control rates were 94.1% (16/17) and 92.3% (12/13), respectively. AEDs were discontinued at 2 weeks and 4-6 weeks, respectively. The authors identified 10 relevant studies in the literature. Based on their review of the literature, the incidence of EPS was 3.7% (47/1282) with AED use and 6.2% (95/1525) without AED use patients in supratentorial meningiomas without preoperative seizures. The incidence of EPS was 9.0% (19/209) in patients without AED use with convexity and parasagittal/falx meningiomas without preoperative seizures. CONCLUSIONS: AED prophylaxis can reduce the incidence of EPS in patients with convexity and parasagittal/falx meningiomas without preoperative seizures. Avoiding postoperative complications is an important means to prevent EPS. Combined medication has a significant effect on controlling repeated EPS. The timing of AED withdrawal was evaluated according to the clinical symptoms and imaging findings.

Wound microenvironment-responsive glucose consumption and hydrogen peroxide generation synergistic with azithromycin for diabetic wounds healing.

Rationale: Chronic wounds are one of the common complications of diabetes. Due to the physiological conditions of diabetic patients, these wounds are more susceptible to bacterial infections and the formation of bacterial biofilms, leading to the inefficiency of conventional antibiotic treatment. Methods: Here, hollow mesoporous silica nanoparticles (HMSN) were used as the nanocarriers for co-delivery of azithromycin (AZM) and glucose oxidase (GOX), achieving a remarkable synergistic effect in chronic diabetic wounds. GOX possesses the catalytic ability to consume glucose and produce H2O2 in the diabetic wound area. The down-regulation of local glucose could effectively improve the chronic diabetic wound microenvironment. Meanwhile, the generated H2O2 effectively inhibits bacterial growth and eradicates bacterial biofilms with the synergism of antibiotics AZM. Results: In the bacteria-infected diabetic cutaneous wound models, the reduction of glucose, generation of H2O2, and release of AZM could effectively reduce the bacterial infection and promote the wounds healing. Moreover, there is no obvious toxicity behavior after the treatment. Conclusions: Therefore, the designed nanosystem could effectively accelerate the diabetic wound healing process by the amelioration of the hyperglycemia microenvironment and the eradication of bacterial biofilms around the wounds, making them promising candidates for clinical transformation.

Three Potential Tumor Markers Promote Metastasis and Recurrence of Colorectal Cancer by Regulating the Inflammatory Response: ADAM8, LYN, and S100A9.

Metastasis and recurrence are major causes of colorectal cancer (CRC) death, but their molecular mechanisms are unclear. In this study, genes associated with CRC metastasis and recurrence were identified by weighted gene coexpression network analysis, selecting the top 25% most variant genes in the dataset GSE33113. By average linkage hierarchical clustering, a total of 21 modules were generated. One key module was identified as the most relevant to the prognosis of CRC. Gene Ontology analysis indicated that genes associated with tumor metastasis and recurrence in this module were significantly enriched in inflammatory biological functions. Functional analysis was performed on the key module, and candidate hub genes (ADAM8, LYN, and S100A9) were screened out by expression and survival analysis. In summary, the three core genes identified in this study could greatly improve our understanding of CRC metastasis and recurrence. The results also provide a theoretical basis for the use of three core genes (ADAM8, LYN, and S100A9) as a combined marker for early diagnosis, which could benefit CRC patients.

Bioinspired protein corona strategy enhanced biocompatibility of Ag-Hybrid hollow Au nanoshells for surface-enhanced Raman scattering imaging and on-demand activation tumor-phototherapy.

Silver-based hybrid nanoprobes for surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) imaging show their tremendous potential for precise biological detection and mediated phototherapy. However, the severe toxicity induced by Ag to normal mammalian cells hinders its further application. Herein, we presented a versatile bioinspired protein corona strategy through assembling bovine serum albumin (BSA) protected Raman tag DTTC-conjugated Ag-hybrid hollow Au nanoshells (hollow AgAu-DTTC-BSA), which their silver ion release and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation are significantly suppressed, enabling no damage to normal cells and tissues, but can be reactivated on-demand under laser-irradiation at the tumor site. These nanoshells could also produce strong localized surface plasmon resonance for efficient-stable photothermal effect and enhanced SERS activity under laser irradiation, approved by both theoretical and experimental calculations. Furthermore, the biocompatible hollow AgAu-DTTC-BSA could detect both primary tumor tissues and tiny liver metastases (~0.18 mm) in orthotopic/subcutaneous CT26 colon tumor-bearing mice models. We also demonstrate their excellent therapeutic efficacy for colorectal solid neoplasms by accurate SERS imaging-guided photothermal therapy, simultaneously assisted with toxic Ag ion and ROS. These results suggest that hollow AgAu-DTTC-BSA is promising imaging assisted photothermal agents for solid tumor theranostics and enhancing the potential of Ag-based nanoparticles for practical treatment.

Classification of Peritumoral Veins in Convexity and Parasagittal Meningiomas and Its Significance in Preventing Cerebral Venous Infarction.

OBJECTIVE: The medium (2-4 cm) convexity located closer to the sinus and parasagittal meningiomas (Sindou type I-Ⅲ) without obvious invasion of the superior sagittal sinus are considered simple to operate on. However, the tumors are often accompanied by the cortical bridging vein. Because of lack of collateral vein circulation in cortical areas, the damage of peritumoral veins will subsequently lead to venous infarction. To avoid the serious complications caused by intraoperative injury of peritumoral veins, it is necessary to define the classification of the progression of peritumoral veins and tumors to guide surgical safety. METHODS: The clinical information of 57 patients with convexity and parasagittal meningiomas was collected and retrospectively analyzed. All patients underwent preoperative magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic resonance venography scanning to observe the imaging characteristics of peritumoral veins and preoperative evaluation. The actual relationship between the tumor and peritumoral vein was observed intraoperatively. Postoperative computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging were used to determine tumor resection and the presence of venous infarction. RESULTS: According to preoperative magnetic resonance venography and intraoperative findings, we divided the peritumoral veins into 3 types: type A (n = 33, 57.9%), the vein surrounds the tumor; type B (n = 15, 26.3%), the vein is located on the ventral side of the tumor; and type C (n = 9, 15.8%), the vein is located on the dorsal side of the tumor. Peritumoral vein injury occurred in 6 cases followed by serious complications. Treatments were as follows: 4 cases underwent decompression and 2 cases were treated conservatively. The prognosis Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) scores were as follows: 3 cases were score 5 for injury of posterior frontal vein or middle frontal vein, 2 cases were score 3 for injury of the central vein, 1 case was score 1 for death due to injury of the central vein. All cases were followed up for 6 months. CONCLUSIONS: Attention should be paid to the peritumoral vein of special meningiomas. Injured vein in the medial third of superior sagittal sinus carries a high rate of postoperative morbidity. Understanding the type of peritumoral veins preoperatively can be used as a guide in determining the corresponding protective strategy during surgery, which can significantly decrease postoperative disability and improve quality of life.

Effects of chitosan-collagen dressing on wound healing in vitro and in vivo assays.

The present study was designed to fabricate a new chitosan-collagen sponge (CCS) for potential wound dressing applications. CCS was fabricated by a 3.0% chitosan mixture with a 1.0% type I collagen (7:3(w/w)) through freeze-drying. Then the dressing was prepared to evaluate its properties through a series of tests. The new-made dressing demonstrated its safety toward NIH3T3 cells. Furthermore, the CCS showed the significant surround inhibition zone than empty controls inoculated by E. coli and S. aureus. Moreover, the moisture rates of CCS were increased more rapidly than the collagen and blank sponge groups. The results revealed that the CCS had the characteristics of nontoxicity, biocompatibility, good antibacterial activity, and water retention. We used a full-thickness excisional wound healing model to evaluate the in vivo efficacy of the new dressing. The results showed remarkable healing at 14th day post-operation compared with injuries treated with collagen only as a negative control in addition to chitosan only. Our results suggest that the chitosan-collagen wound dressing were identified as a new promising candidate for further wound application.

Non-canonical Interaction Between O-Linked N-Acetylglucosamine Transferase and miR-146a-5p Aggravates High Glucose-Induced Endothelial Inflammation.

Background and Aims: Increased O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT)-induced O-linked N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc) post-translational modification is linked with diabetic complications. MicroRNA-146a-5p (miR-146a-5p) is a negative inflammatory regulator and is downregulated in diabetes. Here, we investigated the interaction between miR-146a-5p and OGT. Methods: Human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs) were stimulated with high glucose (25 mM) and glucosamine (25 mM) for 24 h. Western blot, real time PCR, bioinformatics analysis, luciferase reporter assay, miR-146a-5p mimic/inhibitor transfection, siRNA OGT transfection, miR-200a/200b mimic transfection, and OGT pharmacological inhibition (ST045849) were performed. The aorta from miR-146a-5p mimic-treated db/db mice were examined by immunohistochemistry staining. Results: HG and glucosamine upregulated OGT mRNA and protein expression, protein O-GlcNAcylation, and IL-6 mRNA and protein expression. Real time PCR analysis found that miR-146a-5p was decreased in HG- and glucosamine-stimulated HAECs. This suggested that OGT-induced protein O-GlcNAcylation as a mechanism to downregulate miR-146a-5p. Bioinformatic miR target analysis excluded miR-146a-5p as a post-transcriptional regulator of OGT. However, a luciferase reporter assay confirmed that miR-146a-5p mimic bound to 3'-UTR of human OGT mRNA, indicating that OGT is a non-canonical target of miR-146a-5p. Transfection with miR-146a-5p mimic and inhibitor confirmed that miR-146a-5p regulated OGT/protein O-GlcNAcylation/IL-6 expression levels. Furthermore, OGT siRNA transfection, miR-200a/miR-200b mimic transfection, and ST045849 increased HG-induced miR-146a-5p expression levels, indicating that HG-induced miR-146a-5p downregulation is partially mediated through OGT-mediated protein O-GlcNAcylation. In vivo, intravenous injections of miR-146a mimic decreased endothelial OGT and IL6 expression in db/db mice. Conclusion: A non-canonical positive feedback interaction between miR-146a-5p and OGT is involved in a vicious cycle to aggravate HG-induced vascular complications.

Tumour suppressor candidate 3 inhibits biological function and increases endoplasmic reticulum stress of melanoma cells WM451 by regulating AKT/GSK3-ß/ß-catenin pathway.

Melanoma is a highly malignant and is a life-threatening disease with no effective treatment currently. This study aims to evaluate the significance of TUSC3, an endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS)-inducible gene and explore its relationship with AKT/GSK3-ß/ß-catenin signalling pathway in melanoma cell WM451. We investigated TUSC3 expression in melanoma cell by qRT-PCR, CCK-8 and clonal formation assays were utilized to evaluate cell proliferation. Wound healing and transwell experiments detected cell migration and invasion. Flow cytometry detected the level of apoptosis. Western blot analysed MMP2, MMP9, p-AKT, p-GSK3-ß, ß-catenin and AKT, GSK3-ß, ERS-related proteins and apoptosis-related proteins in WM451 cells. The results revealed that TUSC3 was remarkably decreased in melanoma cell lines. Overexpression of TUSC3 significantly inhibits melanoma cell WM451 biological functions and promotes expression of ERS-related proteins in WM451 cells, increases ERS in WM451 cells by inhibiting AKT/GSK3-ß/ß-catenin pathway. These finding suggest that TUSC3 regulates biological functions of melanoma cells WM451 and increases ERS in melanoma cells WM451 via the inhibition of the AKT/GSK3-ß/ß-catenin signalling pathway. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY: Melanoma is a highly malignant and is a life-threatening disease with no effective treatment currently. Therefore, studying the molecular mechanism of melanoma occurrence and metastasis is essential for the treatment of melanoma. Meanwhile, mounting studies suggest that TUSC3 is considered to be closely associated with the development of various malignancies. TUSC3 regulates proliferation, migration and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, but the molecular mechanism of the tumour suppressor effects of TUSC3 on melanoma cells is not well understood. Our study demonstrates that TUSC3 inhibits biological function of melanoma cells and increases ERS in melanoma cells by inhibiting AKT/GSK3-ß/ß-catenin pathway. And this is expected to be a new target and method for the treatment of melanoma.

Decreased expression of microRNA-145 promotes the biological functions of fibroblasts in hypertrophic scar tissues by upregulating the expression of transcription factor SOX-9.

The present study aimed to determine the expression of microRNA (miRNA or miR)-145 in hypertrophic scars at the tissue and cellular levels, and to investigate its biological functions and mechanism of action. A total of 36 patients who were diagnosed with hypertrophic scar were included in the present study. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to determine the expression of miR-145 in tissues and fibroblasts. Primary fibroblasts were transfected with negative control miRNA, miR-145 mimics or inhibitor. A Cell Counting Kit-8 assay was performed to determine the level of proliferation of fibroblasts. Flow cytometry was employed for cell cycles determination and apoptosis in fibroblasts. A Matrigel assay was used to evaluate the invasion ability of fibroblasts. Western blotting was used to determine the expression of the transcription factor SOX-9 (SOX-9) protein in fibroblasts. Rescue experiments were performed to examine the effect of SOX-9 on the regulation of fibroblasts by miR-145. The dual luciferase reporter assay was performed to identify the direct interaction between SOX-9 and miR-145. The expression of miR-145 was reduced in hypertrophic tissues and fibroblasts. Overexpression of miR-145 inhibited the proliferation, G1/S phase transition and invasion of fibroblasts, and promoted the apoptosis of fibroblasts. In addition, overexpression of miR-145 inhibited SOX-9 protein expression. By contrast, the expression of SOX-9 reversed the effects of miR-145 on the proliferation, cell cycle, apoptosis and invasion of fibroblasts. The miR-145 seed region was able to bind with the 3'-untranslated region of the SOX-9 mRNA to regulate its expression. The present study demonstrated that miR-145 expression is reduced in hypertrophic scar tissues and negatively associated with SOX-9 expression. In addition, miR-145 inhibits the proliferation, cell cycle and invasion, and promotes the apoptosis of fibroblasts by down-regulating the expression of SOX-9. The current study provides a potential target for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of hypertrophic scars.