Ultraviolet Protection From a Patented Amino Acid Complex Technology.

OBJECTIVE:   This study aimed to investigate the ultraviolet (UV) protection/repair benefits of a patented Amino Acid Complex (AAComplex). METHODS: I) AAComplex was incubated with dermal fibroblasts, with/without UVA, and collagen I was measured with a GlasBoxPlus device. II) A lotion, with/without AAComplex (1%) was applied topically to skin explants, following UVA irradiation, and quantified for health-related biomarkers (TNFalpha, histamine, and MMP-1). III) A broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 46 and a skincare serum containing AAComplex (2%) were assessed using epidermal equivalents, in the presence of UV irradiation, for effects on IL-1alpha, thymine dimers, Ki-67, filaggrin and Nrf2. RESULTS: I) Collagen I synthesis in dermal fibroblasts was significantly decreased after UVA compared to without UV. The presence of AAComplex prevented this decrease. II) UVA irradiation of skin explants increased histamine, TNFα, and MMP-1. Hydrocortisone aceponate cream significantly decreases all 3 biomarkers. AAComplex contained lotion also significantly decreased all 3 biomarkers, the no AAComplex control lotion only reduced histamine. III) With the regimen of sunscreen + AAComplex contained skincare serum, the significant reduction in IL-1alpha was observed along with a complete recovery of Ki-67 and stimulation of filaggrin and Nrf2T. No thymine dimer positive cell was observed indicating the most positive skin impact from the regiment.  Conclusion: This research using different human skin models demonstrated that AAComplex can provide protection and damage repair caused by UV, at the ingredient level also when formulated in a serum or lotion formula. Skin may be best protected from UV damage when the regimen is used.   J Drugs Dermatol. 2024;23(5):366-375. doi:10.36849/JDD.7916.

[The Miao medicine Sidaxue alleviates rheumatoid arthritis in rats possibly by downregulating matrix metalloproteinases].

OBJECTIVE: To explore the inhibitory effect of Sidaxue, a traditional Miao herbal medicine formula, on articular bone and cartilage destruction and synovial neovascularization in rats with collagen-induced arthritis (CIA). METHODS: In a SD rat model of CIA, we tested the effects of daily gavage of Sidaxue at low, moderate and high doses (10, 20, and 40 g/kg, respectively) for 21 days, with Tripterygium glycosides (GTW) as the positive control, on swelling in the hind limb plantar regions by arthritis index scoring. Pathologies in joint synovial membrane of the rats were observed with HE staining, and serum TNF-α and IL-1ß levels were detected with ELISA. The expressions of NF-κB p65, matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP1), MMP2 and MMP9 at the mRNA and protein levels in the synovial tissues were detected using real-time PCR and Western blotting. Network pharmacology analysis was conducted to identify the important target proteins in the pathways correlated with the therapeutic effects of topical Sidaxue treatment for RA, and the core target proteins were screened by topological analysis. RESULTS: Treatment with GTW and Sidaxue at the 3 doses all significantly alleviated plantar swelling, lowered arthritis index scores, improved cartilage and bone damage and reduced neovascularization in CIA rats (P<0.05), and the effects of Sidaxue showed a dose dependence. Both GTW and Sidaxue treatments significantly lowered TNF-α, IL-1ß, NF-κB p65, MMP1, MMP2, and MMP9 mRNA and protein expressions in the synovial tissues of CIA rats (P<0.05). Network pharmacological analysis identified MMPs as the core proteins associated with topical Sidaxue treatment of RA. CONCLUSION: Sidaxue alleviates articular bone and cartilage damages and reduces synovial neovascularization in CIA rats possibly by downregulating MMPs via the TNF-α/IL-1ß/NF-κB-MMP1, 2, 9 signaling pathway, and MMPs probably plays a key role in mediating the effect of Sidaxue though the therapeutic pathways other than oral administration.

Differential Anti-Fibrotic and Remodeling Responses of Human Dermal Fibroblasts to Artemisia sp., Artemisinin, and Its Derivatives.

Fibrosis is a ubiquitous pathology, and prior studies have indicated that various artemisinin (ART) derivatives (including artesunate (AS), artemether (AM), and dihydroartemisinin (DHA)) can reduce fibrosis in vitro and in vivo. The medicinal plant Artemisia annua L. is the natural source of ART and is widely used, especially in underdeveloped countries, to treat a variety of diseases including malaria. A. afra contains no ART but is also antimalarial. Using human dermal fibroblasts (CRL-2097), we compared the effects of A. annua and A. afra tea infusions, ART, AS, AM, DHA, and a liver metabolite of ART, deoxyART (dART), on fibroblast viability and expression of key fibrotic marker genes after 1 and 4 days of treatment. AS, DHA, and Artemisia teas reduced fibroblast viability 4 d post-treatment in up to 80% of their respective controls. After 4 d of treatment, AS DHA and Artemisia teas downregulated ACTA2 up to 10 fold while ART had no significant effect, and AM increased viability by 10%. MMP1 and MMP3 were upregulated by AS, 17.5 and 32.6 fold, respectively, and by DHA, 8 and 51.8 fold, respectively. ART had no effect, but A. annua and A. afra teas increased MMP3 5 and 16-fold, respectively. Although A. afra tea increased COL3A1 5 fold, MMP1 decreased >7 fold with no change in either transcript by A. annua tea. Although A. annua contains ART, it had a significantly greater anti-fibrotic effect than ART alone but was less effective than A. afra. Immunofluorescent staining for smooth-muscle α-actin (α-SMA) correlated well with the transcriptional responses of drug-treated fibroblasts. Together, proliferation, qPCR, and immunofluorescence results show that treatment with ART, AS, DHA, and the two Artemisia teas yield differing responses, including those related to fibrosis, in human dermal fibroblasts, with evidence also of remodeling of fibrotic ECM.

Identification of Circulating Inflammatory Proteins Associated with Calcific Aortic Valve Stenosis by Multiplex Analysis.

Calcific aortic valve stenosis (CAVS) is characterized by increasing inflammation and progressive calcification in the aortic valve leaflets and is a major cause of death in the aging population. This study aimed to identify the inflammatory proteins involved in CAVS and provide potential therapeutic targets. We investigated the observational and causal associations of 92 inflammatory proteins, which were measured using affinity-based proteomic assays. Firstly, the case-control cohort identified differential proteins associated with the occurrence and progression of CAVS. Subsequently, we delved into exploring the causal impacts of these associated proteins through Mendelian randomization. This involved utilizing genetic instruments derived from cis-protein quantitative loci identified in genome-wide association studies, encompassing a cohort of over 400,000 individuals. Finally, we investigated the gene transcription and protein expression levels of inflammatory proteins by single-cell and immunohistochemistry analysis. Multivariate logistic regression and spearman's correlation analysis showed that five proteins showed a significant positive correlation with disease severity. Mendelian randomization showed that elevated levels of two proteins, namely, matrix metallopeptidase-1 (MMP1) and sirtuin 2 (SIRT2), were associated with an increased risk of CAVS. Immunohistochemistry and single-cell transcriptomes showed that expression levels of MMP1 and SIRT2 at the tissue and cell levels were significantly higher in calcified valves than in non-calcified control valves. These findings indicate that MMP1 and SIRT2 are causally related to CAVS and open up the possibility for identifying novel therapeutic targets.

Tumor Cell-Derived Complement Component C1r Acts as a Prognostic Biomarker and Promotes Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Progression.

BACKGROUND: Mounting evidence indicates that complement components play a crucial role in cancer progression. Recent findings indicate that certain complement components display a significant rise in expression within esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). However, the specific tumorigenic functions of these components remain unclear. This study focuses on investigating the expression pattern of C1r, elucidating a role for C1r in ESCC, as well as exploring underlying mechanisms controlled by C1r. METHODS: The expression of C1r in ESCC tissues, malignant epithelial cells, and its relationship with survival were analyzed using the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and tissue microarrays. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) was used to study the expression of C1r in malignant epithelial cells. C1r knockdown or C1r overexpression in cultured ESCC cells were used to assess the effects of C1r on proliferation, migration, invasion, cell-matrix adhesion, apoptosis, and growth of xenografted tumors in immunocompromised (nude) mice. Western blotting was used to detect the expression of MMP-1 and MMP-10 in C1r knockdown or C1r overexpressing ESCC cells. RESULTS: C1r was highly expressed in ESCC tissues, malignant epithelial cells, and cultured ESCC cell lines. High C1r expression indicated a poor prognosis. Knockdown of C1r significantly suppressed the proliferation, migration, invasion, cell-matrix adhesion, and promoted apoptosis in cultured ESCC cells. Additionally, knockdown of C1r markedly inhibited tumor growth in nude mice. Overexpression of C1r had the opposite effects. C1r induced the expression of MMP-1 and MMP-10. CONCLUSIONS: C1r is highly expressed in ESCC and promotes the progression of this tumor type. Our findings suggest that C1r may serve as a novel prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target in ESCC.

Vascular dysfunction in sporadic bvFTD: white matter hyperintensity and peripheral vascular biomarkers.

BACKGROUND: Vascular dysfunction was recently reported to be involved in the pathophysiological process of neurodegenerative diseases, but its role in sporadic behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD) remains unclear. The aim of this study was to systematically explore vascular dysfunction, including changes in white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) and peripheral vascular markers in bvFTD. METHODS: Thirty-two patients with bvFTD who with no vascular risk factors were enrolled in this cross-sectional study and assessed using positron emission tomography/magnetic resonance (PET/MRI) imaging, peripheral plasma vascular/inflammation markers, and neuropsychological examinations. Group differences were tested using Student's t-tests and Mann-Whitney U tests. A partial correlation analysis was implemented to explore the association between peripheral vascular markers, neuroimaging, and clinical measures. RESULTS: WMH was mainly distributed in anterior brain regions. All peripheral vascular factors including matrix metalloproteinases-1 (MMP-1), MMP-3, osteopontin, and pentraxin-3 were increased in the bvFTD group. WMH was associated with the peripheral vascular factor pentraxin-3. The plasma level of MMP-1 was negatively correlated with the gray matter metabolism of the frontal, temporal, insula, and basal ganglia brain regions. The WMHs in the frontal and limbic lobes were associated with plasma inflammation markers, disease severity, executive function, and behavior abnormality. Peripheral vascular markers were associated with the plasma inflammation markers. CONCLUSIONS: WMHs and abnormalities in peripheral vascular markers were found in patients with bvFTD. These were found to be associated with the disease-specific pattern of neurodegeneration, indicating that vascular dysfunction may be involved in the pathogenesis of bvFTD. This warrants further confirmation by postmortem autopsy. Targeting the vascular pathway might be a promising approach for potential therapy.

Substance P promotes transforming growth factor-ß-induced collagen synthesis in human corneal fibroblasts.

Corneal fibroblasts maintain homeostasis of the corneal stroma by mediating the synthesis and degradation of extracellular collagen, and these actions are promoted by transforming growth factor-ß (TGF-ß) and interleukin-1ß (IL-1ß), respectively. The cornea is densely innervated with sensory nerve fibers that are not only responsible for sensation but also required for physiological processes such as tear secretion and wound healing. Loss or dysfunction of corneal nerves thus impairs corneal epithelial wound healing and can lead to neurotrophic keratopathy. The sensory neurotransmitter substance P (SP) promotes corneal epithelial wound healing by enhancing the stimulatory effects of growth factors and fibronectin. We have now investigated the role of SP in collagen metabolism mediated by human corneal fibroblasts in culture. Although SP alone had no effect on collagen synthesis or degradation by these cells, it promoted the stimulatory effect of TGF-ß on collagen type I synthesis without affecting that of IL-1ß on the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-1. This effect of SP on TGF-ß-induced collagen synthesis was accompanied by activation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling and was attenuated by pharmacological inhibition of p38 or of the neurokinin-1 receptor. Our results thus implicate SP as a modulator of TGF-ß-induced collagen type I synthesis by human corneal fibroblasts, and they suggest that loss of this function may contribute to the development of neurotrophic keratopathy.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study investigates the role of substance P (SP) in collagen metabolism mediated by human corneal fibroblasts in culture. We found that, although SP alone had no effect on collagen synthesis or degradation by corneal fibroblasts, it promoted the stimulatory effect of transforming growth factor-ß on collagen type I synthesis without affecting that of interleukin-1ß on the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-1.

Elevated MMP1 Expression in Carcinoma-Associated Fibroblasts of Breast Cancer Contributes to Tumor Progression and Unfavorable Prognosis.

OBJECTIVE: Previous studies have shown that cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) may play a role in tumor growth and development through paracrine action. Several studies reported upregulated matrix metallopeptidase 1 (MMP1) expression in various cancers. The aim is to investigate the role of elevated MMP1 expression in CAFs of breast cancer. METHODS: A total of 203 cases were used for immunohistochemical analysis based on multiple clinical parameters. Tissues for primary cultures of CAFs were collected from 10 breast cancer patients who underwent complete surgical resection of their tumors. MMP1 expression in primary CAFs was detected using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and western blotting. MMP1-overexpressing CAFs were established via lentiviral transfection, followed by cell functional assays and animal xenograft experiments. RESULTS: MMP1 expression in CAFs of breast cancer was significantly associated with T stage, triple-negative breast cancer status, neoadjuvant chemotherapy status and Ki67 expression. Additionally, MMP1 expression was closely correlated with unfavorable prognosis based on overall survival and disease-free survival analyses. Elevated MMP1 expression in CAFs was verified to promote cell adhesion, invasion, proliferation abilities and attenuate chemosensitivity to Taxotere treatment. CONCLUSION: The results indicated that MMP1 expression in CAFs may participate in the malignant phenotype and unfavorable prognosis of breast cancer.

MMP1, MMP9, MMP11 and MMP13 in melanoma and its metastasis - key points in understanding the mechanisms and celerity of tumor dissemination.

BACKGROUND: Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)1, MMP9, MMP11, and MMP13 are overexpressed in malignant melanoma (MM), being associated with tumor invasive phase, metastases, and more aggressive neoplastic phenotypes. AIM: The main objective of the current study was to correlate the expression of the MMPs with the evolution of MM toward distant metastasis. PATIENTS, MATERIALS AND METHODS: We designed a retrospective cohort study, including 13 patients with metastatic MM. Data concerning age, sex, localization of the primary lesion and metastasis, and histological and immunohistochemical features (intensity of expression and percent of positive cells for MMPs) were statistically processed. RESULTS: The time between the diagnosis of primitive melanoma and the diagnosis of metastasis ranged between 0 and 73 months, with a mean value of 18.3 months. The metastases rich in MMP1- and MMP9-positive cells occurred earlier than the metastases with low levels of positive cells. The mean period until metastasis was shorter for the MMP1-expressing tumors than the ones without MMP1 expression. MMP13 expression in the tumor and its metastasis was significantly linked with the time until the metastasis occurrence. CONCLUSIONS: This study emphasizes the roles of MMP1, MMP9, and MMP13 in the process of metastasis in melanoma and the opportunity to use them as therapeutic targets and surveillance molecules.

Serum levels of matrix metalloproteinases 1, 2, and 7, and their tissue inhibitors 1, 2, 3, and 4 in polytraumatized patients: Time trajectories, correlations, and their ability to predict mortality.

There has been limited research on assessing metalloproteinases (MMPs) 1, 2, and 7, as well as their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs) 1, 2, 3, and 4 in the context of polytrauma. These proteins play crucial roles in various physiological and pathological processes and could be a reliable tool in polytrauma care. We aimed to determine their clinical relevance. We assessed 24 blunt polytrauma survivors and 12 fatalities (mean age, 44.2 years, mean ISS, 45) who were directly admitted to our Level I trauma center and spent at least one night in the intensive care unit. We measured serum levels of the selected proteins on admission (day 0) and days 1, 3, 5, 7, and 10. The serum levels of the seven proteins varied considerably among individuals, resulting in similar median trend curves for TIMP1 and TIMP4 and for MMP1, MMP2, TIMP2, and TIMP3. We also found a significant interrelationship between the MMP2, TIMP2, and TIMP3 levels at the same measurement points. Furthermore, we calculated significant cross-correlations between MMP7 and MMP1, TIMP1 and MMP7, TIMP3 and MMP1, TIMP3 and MMP2, and TIMP4 and TIMP3 and an almost significant correlation between MMP7 and TIMP1 for a two-day-lag. The autocorrelation coefficient reached statistical significance for MMP1 and TIMP3. Finally, lower TIMP1 serum levels were associated with in-hospital mortality upon admission. The causal effects and interrelationships between selected proteins might provide new insights into the interactions of MMPs and TIMPs. Identifying the underlying causes might help develop personalized therapies for patients with multiple injuries. Administering recombinant TIMP1 or increasing endogenous production could improve outcomes for those with multiple injuries. However, before justifying further investigations into basic research and clinical relevance, our findings must be validated in a multicenter study using independent cohorts to account for clinical and biological variability.

Inhibitory effects of bioactive compounds on UVB-induced photodamage in human keratinocytes: modulation of MMP1 and Wnt signaling pathways.

UVB radiation significantly threatens skin health, contributing to wrinkle formation and an elevated risk of skin cancer. This study aimed to explore bioactive compounds with potential UVB-protective properties. Using in silico analysis, we chose compounds to reduce binding energy with matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP1). Piperitoside, procyanidin C1, and mulberrofuran E emerged as promising candidates through this computational screening process. We investigated the UVB-protective efficacy of the selected compounds and underlying mechanisms in human immortalized keratinocytes (HaCaT). We also investigated the molecular pathways implicated in their action, focusing on the transforming growth factor (TGF)-ß and wingless-related integration site (Wnt)/ß-catenin signaling pathways. In UVB-exposed HaCaT cells (100 mJ/cm2 for 30 min), piperitoside, procyanidin C1, and mulberrofuran E significantly reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxides, coupled with an augmentation of collagen expression. These compounds suppressed MMP1, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression, while they concurrently enhanced collagen-1 (COL1A1), ß-catenin (CTNNB1), and superoxide dismutase type-1 (SOD1) expression. Furthermore, Wnt/ß-catenin inhibitors, when administered subsequently, partially counteracted the reduction in MMP1 expression and alleviated inflammatory and oxidative stress markers induced by the bioactive compounds. In conclusion, piperitoside, procyanidin C1, and mulberrofuran E protected against UVB-induced damage in HaCaT cells by inhibiting MMP1 expression and elevating ß-catenin expression. Consequently, these bioactive compounds emerge as promising preventive agents for UVB-induced skin damage, promoting skin health.

Vocal fold fibroblasts and exposure to vibration in vitro: Does sex matter?

Studies have shown that certain vocal fold pathologies are more common in one sex than the other. This is often explained by differences in the composition of the lamina propria and anatomical differences between female and male vocal folds, resulting in e.g. different fundamental frequencies. Here, we investigated a potential sex-specific voice frequency effect in an in vitro setting using vocal fold fibroblasts from one male and one female donor with and without cigarette smoke extract (CSE) addition. After exposure to either male or female vibration frequency with or without CSE, cells and supernatants were harvested. Gene and protein analysis were performed by means of qPCR, western blot, ELISA and Luminex. We found that exposure of cells to both male and female vibration pattern did not elicit significant changes in the expression of extracellular matrix-, inflammation-, and fibrosis-related genes, compared to control cells. The addition of CSE to vibration downregulated the gene expression of COL1A1 in cells exposed to the female vibration pattern, as well as induced MMP1 and PTGS2 in cells exposed to both female and male vibration pattern. The protein expression of MMP1 and COX2 was found to be significantly upregulated only in cells exposed to CSE and female vibration pattern. To conclude, different vibration patterns alone did not cause different responses of the cells. However, the female vibration pattern in combination with CSE had a tendency to elicit/maintain more pro-inflammatory responses in cells than the male vibration pattern.

Identification of CD64 as a marker for the destructive potential of synovitis in osteoarthritis.

OBJECTIVES: OA is characterized by cartilage degeneration and persistent pain. The majority of OA patients present with synovitis, which is associated with increased cartilage damage. Activated synovial macrophages are key contributors to joint destruction. Therefore, a marker that reflects the activation of these cells could be a valuable tool to characterize the destructive potential of synovitis and benefit monitoring of OA. Here, we aimed to investigate the use of CD64 (FcγRI) as a marker to characterize the damaging potential of synovitis in OA. METHODS: Synovial biopsies were obtained from end-stage OA patients that underwent joint replacement surgery. CD64 protein expression and localization was evaluated using immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence and quantified using flow cytometry. qPCR was performed to measure the expression of FCGR1 and OA-related genes in synovial biopsies, and in primary chondrocytes and primary fibroblasts stimulated with OA conditioned medium (OAS-CM). RESULTS: Our data exposed a wide range of CD64 expression in OA synovium and showed positive correlations between FCGR1 and S100A8, S100A9, IL1B, IL6 and MMP1/2/3/9/13 expression. CD64 protein correlated with MMP1, MMP3, MMP9, MMP13 and S100A9. Furthermore, we observed that synovial CD64 protein levels in source tissue for OAS-CM significantly associated with the OAS-CM-induced expression of MMP1, MMP3 and especially ADAMTS4 in cultured fibroblasts, but not chondrocytes. CONCLUSION: Together, these results indicate that synovial CD64 expression is associated with the expression of proteolytic enzymes and inflammatory markers related to structural damage in OA. CD64 therefore holds promise as marker to characterize the damaging potential of synovitis.

Sesamin attenuates UVA-induced keratinocyte injury via inhibiting ASK-1-JNK/p38 MAPK pathways.

BACKGROUND: Ultraviolet (UV) exposure-stimulated reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation in keratinocytes is a crucial factor in skin aging. Phytochemicals have become widely popular for protecting the skin from UV-induced cell injury. Sesamin (SSM) has been shown to play a role in extensive pharmacological activity and exhibit photoprotective effects. AIM: To assess the protective effect of SSM on UVA-irradiated keratinocytes and determine its potential antiphotoaging effect. METHODS: HaCaT keratinocytes pretreated with SSM were exposed to UVA radiation at 8 J/cm2 for 10 min. Cell viability and oxidative stress indicators were evaluated using a cell counting kit-8 and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) assay kits. Apoptosis and intracellular ROS levels were analyzed using annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate/propyridine iodide and dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate staining, respectively. Protein levels of matrix metalloprotein-1 (MMP-1), MMP-9, Bax/Bcl-2, and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway proteins, phospho-apoptosis signal-regulating kinase-1 (p-ASK-1)/ASK-1, phospho-c-Jun N-terminal protein kinase (p-JNK)/JNK, and p-p38/p38 were determined using western blotting. RESULTS: Sesamin showed no cytotoxicity until 160 µmol/L on human keratinocytes. Sesamin pretreatment (20 and 40 µM) reversed the suppressed cell viability, increased LDH release and MDA content, decreased cellular antioxidants GSH and SOD, and elevated intracellular ROS levels, which were induced by UVA irradiation. Additionally, SSM inhibited the expression of Bax, MMP-1, and MMP-9 and stimulated Bcl-2 expression. In terms of the regulatory mechanisms, we demonstrated that SSM inhibits the phosphorylation of ASK-1, JNK, and p38. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that SSM attenuates UVA-induced keratinocyte injury by inhibiting the ASK-1-JNK/p38 MAPK pathways.

Oral intake of collagen hydrolysate from mackerel scad (Decapterus macarellus) attenuates skin photoaging by suppressing the UVB-induced expression of MMP-1 and IL-6.

OBJECTIVES: Excessive skin exposure to UVB radiation can induce photoaging caused by an imbalance in oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, damaging the skin's structure and surface layer. A previous study revealed that collagen hydrolisate extracted from the skin of mackarel scads (Decapterus macarellus) had antiaging properties that were tested in vitro, which serves as a foundation for a subsequent study of its use in vivo. This study aimed at investigating the repair effect of the mackerel scad's skin collagen hydrolysate (MSS-CH) in photoaging conditions in a mouse model. METHODS: MSS-CH was given orally in mice model of skin photoaging under chronic exposure to UVB irradiation for 12 weeks. Morphological and histological changes on the skin were evaluated using SEM and HE staining, along with the measurement of the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-1) and cytokine pro-inflammatory interleukin 6 (IL-6) using ELISA. RESULTS: MSS-CH inhibits the occurrence of epidermal thickening and damage to the dermal layer of the skin. As a result, it restores the epidermis' barrier function and reduces surface damage caused by photoaging. The skin of the MSS-CH treated group exhibited improved physical appearance with reduced fine lines, wrinkles, and enhanced smoothness. Additionally, administering MSS-CH to the mice groups reduced the expression of MMP-1 and IL-6 in UVB-exposed skin. CONCLUSIONS: Altogether, this in vivo study demonstrates the photoaging-protective properties of CH-MSS, aligning with previous in vitro data. Thus, MSS-CH emerges as a strong candidate for use as an ingredient in nutraceuticals and biocosmetics.

Granzyme B promotes matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) release from gingival fibroblasts in a PAR1- and Erk1/2-dependent manner: A novel role in periodontal inflammation.

OBJECTIVE: To gain insights into how proteases signal to connective tissues cells in the periodontium. BACKGROUND: The connective tissue degradation observed in periodontitis is largely due to matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) release by gingival fibroblasts. Granzyme B (GzmB) is a serine protease whose role in periodontitis is undefined. METHODS: Human gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) samples were obtained from sites with periodontal disease and healthy control sites. GzmB was quantified in the GCF ([GzmB]GCF ) by ELISA. Gingival fibroblasts (GF) were cultured in the presence or absence of recombinant GzmB. Culture supernatants were analyzed by ELISA to quantify GzmB-induced release of interstitial collagenase (MMP-1). In some experiments, cells were pre-treated with the inhibitor PD98059 to block MEK/ERK signaling. The protease-activated receptor-1 (PAR-1) was blocked with ATAP-2 neutralizing antibody prior to GzmB stimulation. Systemic MMP-1 levels were measured in plasma from wild-type (WT) and granzyme-B-knockout (GzmB-/- ) mice. RESULTS: The [GzmB]GCF in human samples was ~4-5 fold higher at sites of periodontal disease (gingivitis/periodontitis) compared to healthy control sites, suggesting an association between GzmB and localized matrix degradation. GzmB induced a ~4-5-fold increase in MMP-1 secretion by cultured fibroblasts. GzmB induced phosphorylation of Erk1/2, which was abrogated by PD98059. GzmB-induced upregulation of MMP-1 secretion was also reduced by PD98059. Blockade of PAR-1 function by ATAP-2 abrogated the increase in MMP-1 secretion by GF. Circulating MMP-1 was similar in WT and GzmB-/- mice, suggesting that GzmB's effects on MMP-1 release are not reflected systemically. CONCLUSION: These data point to a novel GzmB-driven signaling pathway in fibroblasts in which MMP-1 secretion is upregulated in a PAR1- and Erk1/2-dependent manner.

Ruscogenin attenuates cartilage destruction in osteoarthritis through suppressing chondrocyte ferroptosis via Nrf2/SLC7A11/GPX4 signaling pathway.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common joint degenerative disease, and chondrocyte injury is the main pathological and physiological change. Ruscogenin (Rus), a bioactive compound isolated from Radix Ophiopogon japonicus, exhibits various pharmacological effects. The aim of this research was to test the role and mechanism of Rus on OA both in vivo and in vitro. Destabilized medial meniscus (DMM)-induced OA model was established in vivo and IL-1ß-stimulated mouse chondrocytes was used to explore the role of Rus on OA in vitro. In vivo, Rus exhibited protective effects against DMM-induced OA model. Rus could inhibit MMP1 and MMP3 expression in OA mice. In vitro, IL-1ß-induced inflammation and degradation of extracellular matrix were inhibited by Rus, as confirmed by the inhibition of PGE2, NO, MMP1, and MMP3 by Rus. Also, IL-1ß-induced ferroptosis was suppressed by Rus, as confirmed by the inhibition of MDA, iron, and ROS, as well as the upregulation of GSH, GPX4, Ferritin, Nrf2, and SLC7A11 expression induced by Rus. Furthermore, the suppression of Rus on IL-1ß-induced inflammation, MMPs production, and ferroptosis were reversed when Nrf2 was knockdown. In conclusion, Rus attenuated OA progression through inhibiting chondrocyte ferroptosis via Nrf2/SLC7A11/GPX4 signaling pathway.

Doxycycline hydrochloride inhibits the progress of malignant rhabdoid tumor of kidney by targeting MMP17 and MMP1 through PI3K-Akt signaling pathway.

OBJECTIVE: To identify therapeutic targets for malignant rhabdoid tumors of kidney (MRTK) and to investigate the effects and underlying mechanism of doxycycline hydrochloride on these tumors. METHODS: Gene expression and clinical data of MRTK were retrieved from the TARGET database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and prognostic-related genes (PRGs) were selected through a combination of statistical analyses. The functional roles of MMP17 and MMP1 were elucidated through RNA overexpression and intervention experiments. Furthermore, in vitro and in vivo studies provided evidence for the inhibitory effect of doxycycline hydrochloride on MRTK. Additionally, transcriptome sequencing was employed to investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms. RESULTS: 3507 DEGs and 690 PRGs in MRTK were identified. Among these, we focused on 41 highly expressed genes associated with poor prognosis and revealed their involvement in extracellular matrix regulatory pathways. Notably, MMP17 and MMP1 stood out as particularly influential genes. When these genes were knocked out, a significant inhibition of proliferation, invasion and migration was observed in G401 cells. Furthermore, our study explored the impact of the matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor, doxycycline hydrochloride, on the malignant progression of G401 both in vitro and in vivo. Combined with sequencing data, the results indicated that doxycycline hydrochloride effectively inhibited MRTK progression, due to its ability to suppress the expression of MMP17 and MMP1 through the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. CONCLUSION: Doxycycline hydrochloride inhibits the expression of MMP17 and MMP1 through the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, thereby inhibiting the malignant progression of MRTK in vivo and in vitro.

Collagen Mimetic Peptides Promote Repair of MMP-1-Damaged Collagen in the Rodent Sclera and Optic Nerve Head.

The structural and biomechanical properties of collagen-rich ocular tissues, such as the sclera, are integral to ocular function. The degradation of collagen in such tissues is associated with debilitating ophthalmic diseases such as glaucoma and myopia, which often lead to visual impairment. Collagen mimetic peptides (CMPs) have emerged as an effective treatment to repair damaged collagen in tissues of the optic projection, such as the retina and optic nerve. In this study, we used atomic force microscopy (AFM) to assess the potential of CMPs in restoring tissue stiffness in the optic nerve head (ONH), including the peripapillary sclera (PPS) and the glial lamina. Using rat ONH tissue sections, we induced collagen damage with MMP-1, followed by treatment with CMP-3 or vehicle. MMP-1 significantly reduced the Young's modulus of both the PPS and the glial lamina, indicating tissue softening. Subsequent CMP-3 treatment partially restored tissue stiffness in both the PPS and the glial lamina. Immunohistochemical analyses revealed reduced collagen fragmentation after MMP-1 digestion in CMP-3-treated tissues compared to vehicle controls. In summary, these results demonstrate the potential of CMPs to restore collagen stiffness and structure in ONH tissues following enzymatic damage. CMPs may offer a promising therapeutic avenue for preserving vision in ocular disorders involving collagen remodeling and degradation.

A novel biomarker of MMP-cleaved cartilage intermediate layer protein-1 is elevated in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and osteoarthritis.

Rheumatic joints have an altered cartilage turnover. Cartilage intermediate layer protein 1 (CILP-1) is secreted from articular chondrocytes and deposited into the cartilage extracellular matrix. We developed an immunoassay targeting a Matrix Metalloproteinase (MMP)-generated neo-epitope of CILP-1, named CILP-M. Human articular cartilage was cleaved with proteolytic enzymes and CILP-M levels were measured. We also quantified CILP-M in two studies from patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and osteoarthritis (OA) and explored the monitoring and prognostic potential of CILP-M in TNF-α inhibitory treatment and modified Stoke AS Spine Score (mSASSS) progression. CILP-M was generated by MMP-1, -8 and -12. In the discovery study, CILP-M was significantly higher in patients with RA, AS and OA than healthy donors (p < 0.01, p < 0.001, p < 0.05) with an area under the curve (AUC) between the diseased groups and healthy donors > 0.95 (p < 0.001). In the validation study, patients with RA and AS had significantly higher CILP-M levels than healthy controls (p < 0.001) and AUC > 0.90 (p < 0.001). Patients with AS treated with TNF- α inhibitory treatment in the validation study had significantly lower CILP-M levels after treatment (p = 0.004). CILP-M may provide useful insights into cartilage degradation processes in rheumatic diseases.