Altered Gut Microbiota as a Potential Risk Factor for Coronary Artery Disease in Diabetes: A Two-Sample Bi-Directional Mendelian Randomization Study.

The current body of research points to a notable correlation between an imbalance in gut microbiota and the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) as well as its consequential ailment, coronary artery disease (CAD). The complexities underlying the association, especially in the context of diabetic coronary artery disease (DCAD), are not yet fully understood, and the causal links require further clarification. In this study, a bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) methodology was utilized to explore the causal relationships between gut microbiota, T2D, and CAD. By analyzing data from the DIAGRAM, GERA, UKB, FHS, and mibioGen cohorts and examining GWAS databases, we sought to uncover genetic variants linked to T2D, CAD, and variations in gut microbiota and metabolites, aiming to shed light on the potential mechanisms connecting gut microbiota with DCAD. Our investigation uncovered a marked causal link between the presence of Oxalobacter formigenes and an increased incidence of both T2D and CAD. Specifically, a ten-unit genetic predisposition towards T2D was found to be associated with a 6.1% higher probability of an increase in the Oxalobacteraceae family's presence (ß = 0.061, 95% CI = 0.002-0.119). In a parallel finding, an augmented presence of Oxalobacter was related to an 8.2% heightened genetic likelihood of CAD (ß = 0.082, 95% CI = 0.026-0.137). This evidence indicates a critical pathway by which T2D can potentially raise the risk of CAD via alterations in gut microbiota. Additionally, our analyses reveal a connection between CAD risk and Methanobacteria, thus providing fresh perspectives on the roles of TMAO and carnitine in the etiology of CAD. The data also suggest a direct causal relationship between increased levels of certain metabolites - proline, lysophosphatidylcholine, asparagine, and salicylurate - and the prevalence of both T2D and CAD. Sensitivity assessments reinforce the notion that changes in Oxalobacter formigenes could pose a risk for DCAD. There is also evidence to suggest that DCAD may, in turn, affect the gut microbiota's makeup. Notably, a surge in serum TMAO levels in individuals with CAD, coinciding with a reduced presence of methanogens, has been identified as a potentially significant factor for future examination.

Genetic liability to multi-site chronic pain increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.

BACKGROUND: Observational studies have shown associations between multi-site chronic pain (MCP) and cardiovascular disease. However, it remains unclear whether these associations are causal. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the causal associations between MCP and cardiovascular disease and identify possible mediators between them. METHODS: A two-sample Mendelian randomisation analysis was applied in this study. The summary data for MCP were obtained from a genome-wide association study that included 387 649 individuals from the UK Biobank, whereas summary-level data for cardiovascular disease and its subtypes were obtained from relevant genome-wide association studies. Finally, summary-level data for common cardiovascular risk factors and inflammatory biomarkers were leveraged to identify possible mediators. RESULTS: Genetic liability to multi-site chronic pain is associated with higher risks for coronary artery disease (CAD), myocardial infarction (MI), heart failure (HF), and stroke, with a combined odds ratio (OR) of 1.537 (per site increment in MCP; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.271-1.858; P=0.0001) for CAD, 1.604 (95% CI: 1.277-2.014; P=0.0005) for MI, 1.722 (95% CI: 1.423-2.083; P<0.00001) for HF, and 1.332 (95% CI: 1.093-1.623; P=0.00001) for stroke. Genetic liability to MCP was found to be associated with mental disorders, smoking initiation, physical activity, BMI, and lipid metabolites. Multivariable Mendelian randomisation suggested a mediating role for mental disorders, smoking initiation, physical activity, and BMI in the relationship between multi-site chronic pain and cardiovascular disease. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings provide new insights into the role of multi-site chronic pain in cardiovascular disease. Additionally, we identified several modifiable risk factors for reducing cardiovascular disease.

Spatiotemporal distribution of migraine in China: analyses based on baidu index.

BACKGROUND: In recent years, innovative approaches utilizing Internet data have emerged in the field of syndromic surveillance. These novel methods aim to aid in the early prediction of epidemics across various scenarios and diseases. It has been observed that these systems demonstrate remarkable accuracy in monitoring outbreaks even before they become apparent in the general population. Therefore, they serve as valuable complementary tools to augment existing methodologies. In this study, we aimed to investigate the spatiotemporal distribution of migraine in China by leveraging Baidu Index (BI) data. METHODS: Migraine-related BI data from January 2014 to December 2022 were leveraged, covering 301 city-level areas from 31 provincial-level regions by using the keyword "migraine ()". Prevalence data from the Global Burden of Disease study (GBD) were attracted to ensure the reliability of utilizing migraine-related BI data for research. Comprehensive analytical methods were then followed to investigate migraine's spatiotemporal distribution. The Seasonal-Trend decomposition procedure based on Loess (STL) was used to identify the temporal distribution. Spatial distribution was explored using the Getis-Ord Gi* statistic, standard deviation ellipse analysis, Moran's Index, and Ordinary Kriging. The top eight migraine-related search terms were analyzed through the Demand Graph feature in the Baidu Index platform to understand the public's concerns related to migraine. RESULTS: A strong association was observed between migraine-related BI and the prevalence data of migraine from GBD with a Spearman correlation coefficient of 0.983 (P = 4.96 × 10- 5). The overall trend of migraine-related BI showed a gradual upward trend over the years with a sharp increase from 2017 to 2019. Seasonality was observed and the peak period occurred in spring nationwide. The middle-lower reaches of the Yangtze River were found to be hotspots, while the eastern coastal areas had the highest concentration of migraine-related BI, with a gradual decrease towards the west. The most common search term related to migraine was "How to treat migraine quickly and effectively ()". CONCLUSIONS: This study reveals important findings on migraine distribution in China, underscoring the urgent need for effective prevention and management strategies.

Empagliflozin attenuates cardiac microvascular ischemia/reperfusion injury through improving mitochondrial homeostasis.

BACKGROUND: Empagliflozin has been reported to protect endothelial cell function, regardless of diabetes status. However, the role of empagliflozin in microvascular protection during myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury (I/R) has not been fully understood. METHODS: Electron microscopy, western blots, immunofluorescence, qPCR, mutant plasmid transfection, co-immunoprecipitation were employed to explore whether empagliflozin could alleviate microvascular damage and endothelial injury during cardiac I/R injury. RESULTS: In mice, empagliflozin attenuated I/R injury-induced microvascular occlusion and microthrombus formation. In human coronary artery endothelial cells, I/R injury led to adhesive factor upregulation, endothelial nitric oxide synthase inactivation, focal adhesion kinase downregulation, barrier dysfunction, cytoskeletal degradation and cellular apoptosis; however, empagliflozin treatment diminished these effects. Empagliflozin improved mitochondrial oxidative stress, mitochondrial respiration and adenosine triphosphate metabolism in I/R-treated human coronary artery endothelial cells by preventing the phosphorylation of dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1) and mitochondrial fission 1 protein (Fis1), thus repressing mitochondrial fission. The protective effects of empagliflozin on mitochondrial homeostasis and endothelial function were abrogated by the re-introduction of phosphorylated Fis1, but not phosphorylated Drp1, suggesting that Fis1 dephosphorylation is the predominant mechanism whereby empagliflozin inhibits mitochondrial fission during I/R injury. Besides, I/R injury induced Fis1 phosphorylation primarily by activating the DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs) pathway, while empagliflozin inactivated this pathway by exerting anti-oxidative effects. CONCLUSIONS: These results demonstrated that empagliflozin can protect the microvasculature by inhibiting the DNA-PKcs/Fis1/mitochondrial fission pathway during myocardial I/R injury.

The USP14-NLRC5 pathway inhibits titanium particle-induced osteolysis in mice by suppressing NF-κB and PI3K/AKT activities.

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a widely-used surgical intervention for treating patients with end-stage degenerative and inflammatory osteoarthropathy. However, wear particles from the artificial titanium joint can induce osteolysis, limiting the long-term survivorship of THA. Monocyte/macrophage lineage cells are the key players in the response to wear particles, and the proinflammatory NF-κB and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)-AKT Ser/Thr kinase (AKT)-signaling pathways have been shown to be the most important contributors to wear particle-induced osteolysis. In contrast, ubiquitin-specific protease 14 (USP14) specifically removes the polyubiquitin chains from the nucleotide-binding and oligomerization domain (NOD)-like receptor family Caspase recruitment domain (CARD)-containing 5 (NLRC5) and thereby enhances the NLRC5-mediated inhibition of NF-κB signaling. In this study, we aimed to clarify the role of the USP14-NLRC5 pathway in wear particle-induced osteolysis in vitro and in vivo We found that NLRC5 or USP14 overexpression inhibits titanium particle-induced proinflammatory tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) production and NF-κB pathway activation, and it also decreases M1 macrophage polarization and PI3K/AKT pathway activation. Of note, NLRC5 and USP14 overexpression attenuated titanium particle-induced cranial osteolysis in mice. In conclusion, the findings of our study indicate that the USP14-NLRC5 pathway inhibits titanium particle-induced osteolysis by suppressing the NF-κB and PI3K/AKT pathways both in vitro and in vivo.

Carnosol suppresses RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis and attenuates titanium particles-induced osteolysis.

Osteolysis is a common medical condition characterized by excessive activity of osteoclasts and bone resorption, leading to severe poor quality of life. It is essential to identify the medications that can effectively suppress the excessive differentiation and function of osteoclasts to prevent and reduce the osteolytic conditions. It has been reported that Carnosol (Car), isolated from rosemary and salvia, has anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and anticancer effects, but its activity on osteolysis has not been determined. In this study, we found that Car has a strong inhibitory effect on the receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL)-induced osteoclast differentiation dose-dependently without any observable cytotoxicity. Moreover, Car can inhibit the RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis and resorptive function via suppressing NFATc1, which is a result of affecting MAPK, NF-κB and Ca2+ signaling pathways. Moreover, the particle-induced osteolysis mouse model confirmed that Car could be effective for the treatment of bone loss in vivo. Taken together, by suppressing the formation and function of RANKL-induced osteoclast, Car, may be a therapeutic supplementary in the prevention or the treatment of osteolysis.

Antiresorptive Agents are More Effective in Preventing Titanium Particle-Induced Calvarial Osteolysis in Ovariectomized Mice Than Anabolic Agents in Short-Term Administration.

Aseptic loosening due to wear particle-induced osteolysis is the main cause of arthroplasty failure and the influence of postmenopausal osteoporosis and anti-osteoporosis treatment on Titanium (Ti) particle-induced osteolysis remains unclear. 66 C57BL/6J female mice were used in this study. Ovariectomy (OVX) was performed to induce osteopenia mice and confirmed by micro-CT. The Ti particle-induced mouse calvaria osteolysis model was established subsequently and both OVX and Sham-OVX mice were divided into four groups, respectively: Ti (-) group, Ti group, Ti + zoledronic acid (ZOL) group (50ug/kg, local administration, single dose) and Ti + teriparatide (TPTD) group (40ug/kg/d, subcutaneous injection*14d). Mice calvarias were collected for micro-CT and histomorphometric analysis 2 weeks after particle induction. 8 weeks after bilateral OVX, significantly reduced BMD and microstructure parameters in both proximal tibia and calvaria were observed in OVX mice when comparing with Sham-OVX mice. OVX mice in Ti group had not only markly decreased BMD and BV/TV, but also significantly increased total porosity, eroded surface area and osteoclast numbers when comparing with Sham-OVX mice. Shown by Two-way ANOVA analysis, the interaction terms between OVX and Ti implantation on micro-CT and histomorphometry parameters didn't reach significant difference. As illustrated by micro-CT and histological analysis, ZOL treatment markedly inhibited Ti particle-induced osteolysis in OVX mice and Sham-OVX mice, and there were significant differences when comparing to both Ti and Ti+TPTD group. The combination of osteoporosis and Ti particle implantation result in aggravated bone resorption, accompanied with increased osteoclasts and excessive inflammation response. ZOL was more effective in preventing Ti particle-induced osteolysis in both OVX mice and Sham-OVX mice than TPTD in short-term administration. ZOL exert the protective effects on Ti particle-induced bone loss via the suppression of osteoclasts.

Wolbachia spreading dynamics in mosquitoes with imperfect maternal transmission.

Mosquitoes are primary vectors of life-threatening diseases such as dengue, malaria, and Zika. A new control method involves releasing mosquitoes carrying bacterium Wolbachia into the natural areas to infect wild mosquitoes and block disease transmission. In this work, we use differential equations to describe Wolbachia spreading dynamics, focusing on the poorly understood effect of imperfect maternal transmission. We establish two useful identities and employ them to prove that the system exhibits monomorphic, bistable, and polymorphic dynamics, and give sufficient and necessary conditions for each case. The results suggest that the largest maternal transmission leakage rate supporting Wolbachia spreading does not necessarily increase with the fitness of infected mosquitoes. The bistable dynamics is defined by the existence of two stable equilibria, whose basins of attraction are divided by the separatrix of a saddle point. By exploring the analytical property of the separatrix with some sharp estimates, we find that Wolbachia in a completely infected population could be wiped out ultimately if the initial population size is small. Surprisingly, when the infection shortens the lifespan of infected females that would impede Wolbachia spreading, such a reversion phenomenon does not occur.

The efficacy of different types of cerebral embolic protection device during transcatheter aortic valve implantation: a meta-analysis.

Aims: Perioperative stroke remains a devastating complication after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), and using a cerebral embolic protection device (CEPD) during TAVI may reduce the occurrence of stroke according to some studies. Therefore, we conducted this meta-analysis to determine whether CEPD should be routinely used during TAVI. Methods and results: The inclusion criteria for this study were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that examined the outcome of stroke with or without CEPD during TAVI, with a minimum follow-up period of 30 days. The primary endpoint was the occurrence of stroke (including both cerebrovascular accidents and death due to cerebrovascular accidents). The risk of stroke was lower in the CEPD group: RR 0.68, 95% CI 0.49-0.96, p = 0.03, I2 = 0%. A subgroup analysis was conducted according to the type of CEPD. The risk of stroke was lower in the I&LCCA (filter cover the innominate and the left common carotid arteries) type CEPD group: RR 0.66, 95% CI 0.49-0.96, p = 0.03, I2 = 36%. However, there was no statistically significant difference in the risk of stroke in the TMCA [filter cover the three major cerebral arteries (innominate, left common carotid, and subclavian arteries)] type CEPD group: RR 0.81, 95% CI 0.36-1.80, p = 0.60, I2 = 0%. Conclusions: In this meta-analysis, the I&LCCA-type CEPD can reduce the risk of stroke within 30 days following TAVI, but the TMCA type cannot.

Quercitrin improves cardiac remodeling following myocardial infarction by regulating macrophage polarization and metabolic reprogramming.

The death and disability caused by myocardial infarction is a health problem that needs to be addressed worldwide, and poor cardiac repair and fibrosis after myocardial infarction seriously affect patient recovery. Postmyocardial infarction repair by M2 macrophages is of great significance for ventricular remodeling. Quercitrin (Que) is a common flavonoid in fruits and vegetables that has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor and other effects, but whether it has a role in the treatment of myocardial infarction is unclear. In this study, we constructed a mouse myocardial infarction model and administered Que. We found through cardiac ultrasound that Que administration improved cardiac ejection fraction and reduced ventricular remodeling. Staining of heart sections and detection of fibrosis marker protein levels revealed that Que administration slowed fibrosis after myocardial infarction. Flow cytometry showed that the proportion of M2 macrophages in the mouse heart was increased and that the expression levels of M2 macrophage markers were increased in the Que-treated group. Finally, we identified by metabolomics that Que reduces glycolysis, increases aerobic phosphorylation, and alters arginine metabolic pathways, polarizing macrophages toward the M2 phenotype. Our research lays the foundation for the future application of Que in myocardial infarction and other cardiovascular diseases.

USP14-mediated NLRC5 upregulation inhibits endothelial cell activation and inflammation in atherosclerosis.

Atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory condition that leads to a variety of life-threatening cardiovascular diseases, is a worldwide public health concern. Endothelial cells (ECs), which line the inside of blood vessels, play an important role in atherogenic initiation. Endothelial activation and inflammation are indispensable for the early stage of atherosclerosis. Ubiquitin-specific protease 14 (USP14), a deubiquitinating enzyme that regulates the stability and activity of target proteins, has been identified as a potential therapeutic target for many inflammatory diseases. However, the role of USP14 on ECs is undefined. In this study, we found that USP14 is downregulated in either atherosclerosis patient specimens or oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL)-stimulated ECs as compared to the control group. Overexpression of USP14 in ECs restrains ox-LDL-stimulated nuclear transcription factor kappa B (NF-κB) activation and subsequent adhesion molecule production. USP14 inhibits endothelium proinflammatory activation by suppressing the degradation of the negative regulator of NF-κB signaling, nod-like receptor family caspase recruitment domain family domain containing 5 (NLRC5). Finally, our in vivo experiments confirmed that USP14 adenovirus injection in apolipoprotein E deficient (ApoE-/-) mice fed with a western diet reduced the atherosclerotic lesion size, inhibited macrophage accumulation in the intima, and restricted the progression of atherosclerosis. Our results reveal that USP14 may represent a new therapeutic target for atherosclerosis.

Gut microbiota alterations may increase the risk of prescription opioid use, but not vice versa: A two-sample bi-directional Mendelian randomization study.

Introduction: Gut microbiota alterations are strongly associated with prescription opioid use (POU) and multisite chronic pain (MCP). However, whether or not these associations are causal remains unknown. Therefore, we aim to explore the causal relationships between them comprehensively. Methods: A two-sample bi-directional Mendelian randomization was conducted to assess the potential associations between gut microbiota and POU/MCP using summary level Genome-wide association studies (GWASs) that were based on predominantly European ancestry. Results: Potential causal effects were identified between seven host genetic-driven traits of gut microbiota on POU, including Adlercreutzia, Allisonella, Dialister, Anaerofilum, Anaerostipes, ChristensenellaceaeR.7group, and LachnospiraceaeNC2004group at the genus level (p < 0.05) by the Inverse-variance weighted method, with significant causal effects of ChristensenellaceaeR.7group and Allisonella on POU (p < 0.025). A total of five genetically greater abundance of gut microbiota traits were identified to be possibly related to the level of MCP (p < 0.05), including genus ErysipelotrichaceaeUCG003, family Clostridiaceae1, order Gastranaerophilales, order Actinomycetales, and family Actinomycetaceae. In the other direction, no clear evidence was found to support a significant causal relationship between POU and gut microbiota, as well as MCP and gut microbiota. In addition, evidence was also provided for the relationship between triacylglycerols and diacylglycerol elevation, and an increased risk of POU and MCP. No evidence was found across various sensitivity analyses, including reverse causality, pleiotropy, and heterogeneity. Conclusion: The findings from this study provide robust evidence that gut microbiota alterations may be a risk of POU/MCP, but not vice versa.

DNA-PKcs promotes sepsis-induced multiple organ failure by triggering mitochondrial dysfunction.

INTRODUCTION: Multiple organ failure is the commonest cause of death in septic patients. OBJECTIVES: This study was undertaken in an attempt to elucidate the functional importance of DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs) on mitochondrial dysfunction associated with the development and progression of sepsis-related multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS). METHODS: Cardiomyocyte-specific DNA-PKcs knockout (DNA-PKcsCKO) mice, liver-specific DNA-PKcs knockout (DNA-PKcsLKO) mice, and kidney tubular cell-specific DNA-PKcs knockout (DNA-PKcsTKO) mice were used to generate an LPS-induced sepsis model. Echocardiography, serum biochemistry, and tissue microscopy were used to analyze organ damage and morphological changes induced by sepsis. Mitochondrial function and dynamics were determined by qPCR, western blotting, ELISA, and mt-Keima and immunofluorescence assays following siRNA-mediated DNA-PKCs knockdown in cardiomyocytes, hepatocytes, and kidney tubular cells. RESULTS: DNA-PKcs deletion attenuated sepsis-mediated myocardial damage through improving mitochondrial metabolism. Loss of DNA-PKcs protected the liver against sepsis through inhibition of mitochondrial oxidative damage and apoptosis. DNA-PKcs deficiency sustained kidney function upon LPS stress through normalization of mitochondrial fission/fusion events, mitophagy, and biogenesis. CONCLUSION: We conclude that strategies targeting DNA-PKcs expression or activity may be valuable therapeutic options to prevent or reduce mitochondrial dysfunction and organ damage associated with sepsis-induced MODS.

m6A reader YTHDC1 modulates autophagy by targeting SQSTM1 in diabetic skin.

Dysregulation of macroautophagy/autophagy contributes to the delay of wound healing in diabetic skin. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA modification is known to play a critical role in regulating autophagy. In this study, it was found that SQSTM1/p62 (sequestosome 1), an autophagy receptor, was significantly downregulated in two human keratinocyte cells lines with short-term high-glucose treatment, as well as in the epidermis of diabetic patients and a db/db mouse model with long-term hyperglycemia. Knockdown of SQSTM1 led to the impairment of autophagic flux, which was consistent with the results of high-glucose treatment in keratinocytes. Moreover, the m6A reader protein YTHDC1 (YTH domain containing 1), which interacted with SQSTM1 mRNA, was downregulated in keratinocytes under both the acute and chronic effects of hyperglycemia. Knockdown of YTHDC1 affected biological functions of keratinocytes, which included increased apoptosis rates and impaired wound-healing capacity. In addition, knockdown of endogenous YTHDC1 resulted in a blockade of autophagic flux in keratinocytes, while overexpression of YTHDC1 rescued the blockade of autophagic flux induced by high glucose. In vivo, knockdown of endogenous Ythdc1 or Sqstm1 inhibited autophagy in the epidermis and delayed wound healing. Interestingly, we found that a decrease of YTHDC1 drove SQSTM1 mRNA degradation in the nucleus. Furthermore, the results revealed that YTHDC1 interacted and cooperated with ELAVL1/HuR (ELAV like RNA binding protein 1) in modulating the expression of SQSTM1. Collectively, this study uncovered a previously unrecognized function for YTHDC1 in modulating autophagy via regulating the stability of SQSTM1 nuclear mRNA in diabetic keratinocytes.Abbreviations: ACTB: actin beta; AGEs: glycation end products; AL: autolysosome; AP: autophagosome; ATG: autophagy related; AKT: AKT serine/threonine kinase; ANOVA: analysis of variance; BECN1: beclin 1; Co-IP: co-immunoprecipitation; DEGs: differentially expressed genes; DM: diabetes mellitus; ELAVL1: ELAV like RNA binding protein 1; FTO: FTO alpha-ketoglutarate dependent dioxygenase; G: glucose; HaCaT: human keratinocyte; GO: Gene Ontology; GSEA: Gene Set Enrichment Analysis; HE: hematoxylin-eosin; IHC: immunohistochemical; IRS: immunoreactive score; KEAP1: kelch like ECH associated protein 1; KEGG: Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes; m6A: N6-methyladenosine; M: mannitol; MANOVA: multivariate analysis of variance; MAP1LC3: microtubule associated protein 1 light chain 3; MAP1LC3B: microtubule associated protein 1 light chain 3 beta; MeRIP: methylated RNA immunoprecipitation; METTL3: methyltransferase 3, N6-adenosine-methytransferase complex catalytic subunit; MTOR: mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase; MTORC1: mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1; NBR1: NBR1 autophagy cargo receptor; NFE2L2: nuclear factor, erythroid 2 like 2; NG: normal glucose; NHEK: normal human epithelial keratinocyte; OE: overexpressing; p-: phospho-; PI: propidium iodide; PPIN: Protein-Protein Interaction Network; RBPs: RNA binding proteins; RIP: RNA immunoprecipitation; RNA-seq: RNA-sequence; RNU6-1: RNA, U6 small nuclear 1; ROS: reactive oxygen species; siRNAs: small interfering RNAs; SQSTM1: sequestosome 1; SRSF: serine and arginine rich splicing factor; T2DM: type 2 diabetes mellitus; TEM: transmission electron microscopy; TUBB: tubulin beta class I; WT: wild-type; YTHDC1: YTH domain containing 1.

ZBTB20 regulates cardiac allograft rejection through NFкB-mediated inflammation in mouse heart transplantation.

Allograft rejection is a major obstacle for the long-term survival of heart transplantation (Htx) patients. The cardiac allograft rejection requires the activation of macrophages and effector T cells. In this study, we explored the role of zinc-finger and BTB domain containing protein 20 (ZBTB20) in the regulation of heart allograft rejection. Flow cytometry analysis of the spleen cells from mice undergoing an acute cardiac rejection revealed that the ZBTB20 protein expression was upregulated in both T and B cells(n = 4，P < 0.01). In addition, ZBTB20 gene knockdown significantly prolonged the survival of heart allografts in mice(n = 4，P < 0.01). Lack of ZBTB20 increased the expression of Foxp3 and limited the response of T helper 1 (Th1) cells(n = 4，P < 0.01). The ZBTB20-related regulation occurred through the activation of the NFкB pathway. In conclusion, our data suggest that ZBTB20 is involved in the regulation of T cells involved in acute heart allograft rejection. Hence, downregulation of ZBTB20 expression may inhibit T cells to prolong heart transplant survival.

Ndufs1 Deficiency Aggravates the Mitochondrial Membrane Potential Dysfunction in Pressure Overload-Induced Myocardial Hypertrophy.

Mitochondrial dysfunction has been suggested to be the key factor in the development and progression of cardiac hypertrophy. The onset of mitochondrial dysfunction and the mechanisms underlying the development of cardiac hypertrophy (CH) are incompletely understood. The present study is based on the use of multiple bioinformatics analyses for the organization and analysis of scRNA-seq and microarray datasets from a transverse aortic constriction (TAC) model to examine the potential role of mitochondrial dysfunction in the pathophysiology of CH. The results showed that NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase core subunit S1- (Ndufs1-) dependent mitochondrial dysfunction plays a key role in pressure overload-induced CH. Furthermore, in vivo animal studies using a TAC mouse model of CH showed that Ndufs1 expression was significantly downregulated in hypertrophic heart tissue compared to that in normal controls. In an in vitro model of angiotensin II- (Ang II-) induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, Ang II treatment significantly downregulated the expression of Ndufs1 in cardiomyocytes. In vitro mechanistic studies showed that Ndufs1 knockdown induced CH; decreased the mitochondrial DNA content, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and mitochondrial mass; and increased the production of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cardiomyocytes. On the other hand, Ang II treatment upregulated the expression levels of atrial natriuretic peptide, brain natriuretic peptide, and myosin heavy chain beta; decreased the mitochondrial DNA content, MMP, and mitochondrial mass; and increased mitochondrial ROS production in cardiomyocytes. The Ang II-mediated effects were significantly attenuated by overexpression of Ndufs1 in rat cardiomyocytes. In conclusion, our results demonstrate downregulation of Ndufs1 in hypertrophic heart tissue, and the results of mechanistic studies suggest that Ndufs1 deficiency may cause mitochondrial dysfunction in cardiomyocytes, which may be associated with the development and progression of CH.

BTK Promotes Atherosclerosis by Regulating Oxidative Stress, Mitochondrial Injury, and ER Stress of Macrophages.

Atherosclerosis (AS) is a chronic metabolic disease in arterial walls, characterized by lipid deposition and persistent aseptic inflammation. AS is regarded as the basis of a variety of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. It is widely acknowledged that macrophages would become foam cells after internalizing lipoprotein particles, which is an initial factor in atherogenesis. Here, we showed the influences of Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) in macrophage-mediated AS and how BTK regulates the inflammatory responses of macrophages in AS. Our bioinformatic results suggested that BTK was a potential hub gene, which is closely related to oxidative stress, ER stress, and inflammation in macrophage-induced AS. Moreover, we found that BTK knockdown could restrain ox-LDL-induced NK-κB signaling activation in macrophages and repressed M1 polarization. The mechanistic studies revealed that oxidative stress, mitochondrial injury, and ER stress in macrophages were also suppressed by BTK knockdown. Furthermore, we found that sh-BTK adenovirus injection could alleviate the severity of AS in ApoE-/- mice induced by a high-fat diet in vivo. Our study suggested that BTK promoted ox-LDL-induced ER stress, oxidative stress, and inflammatory responses in macrophages, and it may be a potential therapeutic target in AS.

ZBTB20 Positively Regulates Oxidative Stress, Mitochondrial Fission, and Inflammatory Responses of ox-LDL-Induced Macrophages in Atherosclerosis.

Atherosclerosis (AS) is one of the most serious and common cardiovascular diseases affecting human health. AS is featured by the accumulation of plaques in vessel walls. The pathophysiology of AS is relevant in the low-density lipoprotein (LDL) uptake by macrophages, as well as the conversion of macrophages to foam cells. However, the mechanisms about how macrophages regulate AS have not been fully elucidated. In this study, we aimed to illuminate the roles of ZBTB20 and to excavate the underlying regulative mechanisms of ZBTB20 in AS. The microarray analysis revealed that ZBTB20 was a hub gene in the oxidative stress and inflammatory responses induced by oxidized LDL (ox-LDL) in AS. Correspondingly, our validation studies showed that ZBTB20 increased in either the human atherosclerotic lesion or the ox-LDL-stimulated macrophages. Moreover, the knockdown of ZBTB20 decreased M1 polarization, suppressed the proinflammatory factors, inhibited mitochondrial fission, and reduced the oxidative stress level of macrophages induced by ox-LDL. The mechanistic studies revealed that the ZBTB20 knockdown suppressed NF-κB/MAPK activation and attenuated the mitochondrial fission possibly via regulating the nucleus translocation of NRF2, a pivotal transcription factor on redox homeostasis. Our in vivo studies showed that the sh-ZBTB20 adenovirus injection could reduce the progression of AS in apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE-/-) mice. All in all, these results suggested that ZBTB20 positively regulated the oxidative stress level, mitochondrial fission, and inflammatory responses of macrophages induced by ox-LDL, and the knockdown of ZBTB20 could attenuate the development of AS in ApoE-/- mice.

Ketogenic Diet Suppressed T-Regulatory Cells and Promoted Cardiac Fibrosis via Reducing Mitochondria-Associated Membranes and Inhibiting Mitochondrial Function.

Ketogenic diet (KD) is popular in diabetic patients but its cardiac safety and efficiency on the heart are unknown. The aim of the present study is to determine the effects and the underlined mechanisms of KD on cardiac function in diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM). We used db/db mice to model DCM, and different diets (regular or KD) were used. Cardiac function and interstitial fibrosis were determined. T-regulatory cell (Treg) number and functions were evaluated. The effects of ketone body (KB) on fatty acid (FA) and glucose metabolism, mitochondria-associated endoplasmic reticulum membranes (MAMs), and mitochondrial respiration were assessed. The mechanisms via which KB regulated MAMs and Tregs were addressed. KD improved metabolic indices in db/db mice. However, KD impaired cardiac diastolic function and exacerbated ventricular fibrosis. Proportions of circulatory CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ cells in whole blood cells and serum levels of IL-4 and IL-10 were reduced in mice fed with KD. KB suppressed the differentiation to Tregs from naive CD4+ T cells. Cultured medium from KB-treated Tregs synergically activated cardiac fibroblasts. Meanwhile, KB inhibited Treg proliferation and productions of IL-4 and IL-10. Treg MAMs, mitochondrial respiration and respiratory complexes, and FA synthesis and oxidation were all suppressed by KB while glycolytic levels were increased. L-carnitine reversed Treg proliferation and function inhibited by KB. Proportions of ST2L+ cells in Tregs were reduced by KB, as well as the production of ST2L ligand, IL-33. Reinforcement expressions of ST2L in Tregs counteracted the reductions in MAMs, mitochondrial respiration, and Treg proliferations and productions of Treg cytokines IL-4 and IL-10. Therefore, despite the improvement of metabolic indices, KD impaired Treg expansion and function and promoted cardiac fibroblast activation and interstitial fibrosis. This could be mainly mediated by the suppression of MAMs and fatty acid metabolism inhibition via blunting IL-33/ST2L signaling.

ZBTB20-mediated titanium particle-induced peri-implant osteolysis by promoting macrophage inflammatory responses.

Aseptic loosening (AL) caused by wear particles released from implant surfaces is one of the main causes for the failure of artificial joints, which is initiated by macrophage inflammatory responses. Emerging evidence suggests that the member of a broad-complex, tramtrack, bric-a-brac/poxvirus and zinc finger (BTB/POZ) family as well as zinc finger and BTB domain-containing protein 20 (ZBTB20) can inhibit IκBα gene transcription, promote NF-κB activation, and initiate innate immune responses. The molecular mechanism(s) by which ZBTB20 contributes to titanium particle (TiP)-induced macrophage inflammatory responses and osteolysis has not been fully elucidated. Here, we showed that ZBTB20 increased either in the AL group's synovial membranes or in TiP-stimulated bone-marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) as compared to that in the control groups. Moreover, the knockdown of ZBTB20 led to the inhibition of proinflammatory factors induced by TiPs in BMDMs, such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interferon-ß (IFN-ß). Here, we also reported that the knockdown of ZBTB20 suppressed TiP-induced NF-κB activation and M1 polarization as well as stabilized the trans Golgi network (TGN) in BMDMs. The dual-luciferase reporter assay identified the binding between the IκBα promoter and ZBTB20, and IκBα knockdown could rescue the antiinflammatory effects induced by the ZBTB20 knockdown in BMDMs. Finally, we found that sh-ZBTB20 lentivirus injection could reduce TiP-induced osteolysis in mouse calvaria, inhibiting TiP-induced proinflammatory factors and loss of bone volume/total volume (BV/TV) as well as bone mineral density (BMD). These results suggest that ZBTB20 positively regulated NF-κB activation and M1 polarization as well as the production of TGN-derived tubular carriers in BMDMs, playing a positive role in macrophage activation and mouse cranial osteolysis induced by TiPs. It may be a potential therapeutic target for the prevention of aseptic loosening of prostheses.