Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles enhance the regenerative capability of fibrotic liver / 器官移植

Objective To investigate the role of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicle (hUC-MSC-EV) in the regeneration of fibrotic liver. Methods C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into the 70% normal liver resection group (Oil+PHx group), 70% liver fibrosis resection group (CCl4+PHx group) and 70% liver fibrosis resection+mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicle (MSC-EV) treatment group (CCl4+PHx+MSC-EV group), with 8 mice in each group. LX-2 cell lines were assigned into the phosphate buffer solution (PBS) group, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β group and TGF-β+MSC-EV group. The serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in mice after partial liver resection were detected in each group. The expression levels of liver fibrosis and proliferation-related parameters were analyzed in each group. The messenger RNA (mRNA) expression levels of epidermal growth factor (EGF), fibroblast growth factor (FGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) in LX-2 cells were detected in each group, and their effects on HGF expression in mouse liver were observed. Results Compared with the Oil+PHx group, the serum levels of AST, ALT and LDH were up-regulated, and the degree of fibrosis was more severe, the positive area of Sirius red and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) staining was larger, and the expression level of α-SMA protein was up-regulated in the CCl4+PHx group. Compared with the CCl4+PHx group, the serum levels of AST, ALT and LDH were decreased, the degree of fibrosis was slighter, the positive area of Sirius red and α-SMA staining was decreased, and the expression level of α-SMA protein was down-regulated in the CCl4+PHx+MSC-EV group, and the differences were statistically significant (all P < 0.05). Compared with the Oil+PHx group, the protein expression levels of Ki67 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) were lower in the CCl4+PHx group. Compared with the CCl4+PHx group, the protein expression levels of Ki67 and PCNA were increased in the CCl4+PHx+MSC-EV group, and the differences were statistically significant (all P < 0.05). Compared with the PBS group, the expression level of CollagenⅠ mRNA in LX-2 cells was increased, the expression level of α-SMA protein was up-regulated and the expression level of HGF protein was decreased in the TGF-β group. Compared with the TGF-β group, the expression level of CollagenⅠ mRNA in LX-2 cells was decreased, the expression levels of HGF mRNA and protein were increased, and the expression level of α-SMA protein was decreased in the TGF-β+MSC-EV group, the differences were statistically significant (all P < 0.05). The expression level of HGF protein in the CCl4+PHx group was lower than that in the Oil+PHx group, whereas the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). The expression level of HGF protein in the CCl4+PHx+MSC-EV group was higher than that in the CCl4+PHx group, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). Conclusions The regenerative capacity of fibrotic liver is weaker than that of normal liver. hUC-MSC-EV may alleviate liver fibrosis and improve liver regeneration by promoting HGF secretion from actived hepatic stellate cells and effectively enhancing the regenerative capacity of fibrotic liver.

The effect of ALPL on liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy in mice / 西安交通大学学报(医学版)

【Objective】 To observe the role of liver/bone/kidney alkaline phosphatase gene (ALPL) in liver regeneration following 70% hepatectomy (partial hepatectomy, PH). 【Methods】 A knock-out mouse model (ALPL+/-) was established, and a 70% hepatectomy was performed. Changes in liver weight and liver function were measured at PH 1 day, PH 3 day, and PH 7 day (PH1d、PH3d、PH7d) after surgery. In addition, cell proliferation, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were performed by Western blotting, immunofluorescence staining, and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. 【Results】 ALPL knockout mice at PH7d exhibited a lower ratio of liver/total body weight than normal control mice. An analysis of liver function showed no significant difference between the ALPL knockout group and the WT (ALPL+/+) group when the ALPL gene was deleted. While Ki67 staining and PCNA analysis indicated that liver cell proliferation was decreased in ALPL+/- mice at PH1d and increased at PH7d compared to that in ALPL+/+group. Additionally, knockouts of ALPL decreased serum and liver HGF and VEGF levels at PH1d compared to WT controls, but increased at PH7d. 【Conclusion】 The knockout of ALPL leads to a delayed liver regeneration following hepatectomy, which provides theoretical support for exploring the mechanisms underlying liver regeneration after hepatectomy.

Lithocarpus polystachyus (Sweet Tea) water extract promotes human hepatocytes HL7702 proliferation through activation of HGF/AKT/ERK signaling pathway / 中草药·英文版

Objective: Sweet Tea (ST), derived from the leaves of Lithocarpus polystachyus, is a Chinese folk medicine with wide pharmacological activities. However, the promotive effects of ST water extract on hepatocytes proliferation and its underlying mechanism remains still unknown. In the present study, the beneficial effects of ST water extract on human hepatocytes and its possible mechanism were investigated. Methods: MTT assay was used to detect the safety range of ST; HL7702 cells were divided into four groups: control group, ST low- (50 μg/mL), medium- (200 μg/mL) and high-concentration (800 μg/mL) groups; BrdU ELISA and EDU staining were used to observe DNA content and cell proliferation; Moreover, flow cytometry was applied to analyze the distribution of cell cycle. Furthermore, the expression of cyclin D1, CDK4, HGF/c-Met, Akt, Erk1/2 were detected by Western blot. Results: It was found that ST water extract concentration-dependent promoted human hepatocytes HL7702 cell proliferation within 72 h through accumulating the cells in S phase and G2/M phase. Furthermore, ST water extract up-regulated expression of Cyclin D1 and CDK4 proteins. Moreover, ST water extract not only increased HGF expression and phosphorylation of c-Met level, but also activated the phosphorylation levels of AKT, ERK1/2. Interestingly, both of AKT inhibitor A6730 and ERK1/2 inhibitor U0126 reversed the promotive effects of ST water extract, which further confirmed that activation of AKT and ERK1/2 were involved. Conclusion: The findings reveal that ST water extract promoted HL7702 cells proliferation through the stimulation of cell cycle mediated by activating the AKT- and ERK1/2-related pathway.

Effect and Mechanism of Wumeiwan Against Lewis Lung Cancer in Mice with Syndrome of Cold and Heat in Complexity Based on HGF/C-Met Signaling Pathway / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo investigate the effect and mechanism of Wumeiwan against Lewis lung cancer in mice with syndrome of cold and heat in complexity based on hepatocyte growth factor/mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor （HGF/C-Met） signaling pathway. MethodTwenty healthy male mice were classified into blank group， model group （equivalent volume of distilled water， ig）， cisplatin group （4.0 mg·kg-1 cisplatin， ip）， and Wumeiwan group （12.5 mL·kg-1 Wumeiwan， ig）， with 5 in each group. Lewis lung cancer with the syndrome of cold and heat in complexity was induced in mice except the blank group by gavage of propylthiouracil， Zhimu Shigaotang， and Fanxieye， ice-water swimming， and subcutaneous injection of dry yeast suspension and Lewis cell suspension under the right armpit. After modeling， administration began and lasted 6 weeks. After the experiment， the tumor weight， tumor volume， tumor inhibition rate， and lung cancer metastasis-inhibiting proportion were measured and calculated. The pathological morphology of lung tissue was observed based on hematoxylin and eosin （HE） staining. The growth state of tumor tissue was analyzed by immunohistochemistry. The mRNA expression of HGF and C-Met was detected by Real-time polymerase chain reaction （PCR）， and the protein expressions of HGF， C-Met， survivin， and X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein （XIAP） by Western blot. ResultCompared with the blank group， the model group showed high mRNA expression of HGF and C-Met and protein expression of HGF， C-Met， surviving， and XIAP （P<0.01）. Compared with the model group， Wumeiwan group displayed low proportion of positive cells， positive cell density， positive score （P<0.05）， histochemical score， tumor weight， tumor volume （P<0.01）， mRNA expression of HGF and C-Met （P<0.01）， and protein expression of HGF， C-Met， surviving， and XIAP （P<0.01）. Compared with the model group， the cisplatin group displayed decrease in the proportion of positive cells， density of positive cells （P<0.05）， positive score， tumor weight， tumor volume （P<0.01）， mRNA expression of HGF and C-Met （P<0.01）， and protein expression of HGF， C-Met， surviving， and XIAP （P<0.01）， and insignificant variation in the histochemical score. Wumeiwan group had high mRNA expression of HGF （P<0.01）， and insignificant variation in the proportion of positive cells， positive cell density， histochemical score， positive score， tumor weight， tumor volume， mRNA expression of C-Met， and protein expression of HGF， C-Met， surviving， and XIAP. ConclusionWumeiwan can slow down the progression of Lewis lung cancer in mice with syndrome of cold and heat I complexicity by inhibiting HGF/C-Met signaling pathway.

Mechanism of hepatocyte growth factor in childhood respiratory diseases / 中华实用儿科临床杂志

Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is a mesenchymal-derived growth factor, which is widely used in the basic and clinical research of pediatric multi-system due to various biological functions.As a protective factor for lung tissues, HGF has significant biological effects on enhancing lung tissue development, stimulating DNA production of lung epithelial cells, repairing lung microvascular endothelial cells, inhibiting apoptosis induced by lung injury, and delaying pulmonary fibrosis.HGF is closely related to the occurrence and development of respiratory diseases in children.This study aims to review the physiological characteristics of HGF and the mechanism in children′s respiratory diseases.

Factor de crecimiento de hepatocitos séricos como herramienta diagnóstica en pacientes con dolor torácico agudo / Serum hepatocyte growth factor as diagnostic tool in patients with acute chest pain

Resumen Objetivo Determinar si los niveles plasmáticos de factor de crecimiento de hepatocitos podrían ayudar a realizar el diagnóstico diferencial en pacientes con dolor torácico prolongado y elevación de la troponina cardiaca, y evaluar su valor pronóstico de mortalidad al año en estos pacientes. Método: Estudio prospectivo observacional. Se incluyeron pacientes mayores de 18 años que acudieron a urgencias con dolor torácico agudo de más de 20 minutos y elevación de la troponina cardiaca, con seguimiento al año. Resultados Se incluyeron 303 pacientes, 103 (34%) con infarto de miocardio y 200 (66%) con otras enfermedades. Los niveles plasmáticos del factor de crecimiento de hepatocitos fueron superiores en el grupo sin infarto de miocardio: 329 pg/ml (rango intercuartílico [IQR]: 66-558) vs. 476 pg/ml (IQR: 264-908; p < 0.001). La mortalidad al año fue del 30.7%, superior en el grupo sin infarto de miocardio (36.5% vs. 19.4%; p = 0.002). Se encontró una fuerte asociación entre la mortalidad y los niveles elevados de factor de crecimiento de hepatocitos (650 pg/ml [344-1159] vs. 339 pg/ml [205-607]; p < 0.001). En el análisis multivariado se halló que los niveles de factor de crecimiento de hepatocitos, la edad y la escala GRACE son factores independientes de mortalidad al año en estos pacientes. Conclusiones En los pacientes con dolor torácico agudo prolongado y elevación de la troponina cardiaca, la determinación de los niveles del factor de crecimiento de hepatocitos no permite confirmar ni descartar la presencia de infarto agudo de miocardio. No obstante, podría ser un marcador pronóstico de mortalidad en estos pacientes, junto con la edad y la escala GRACE.

Abstract Objective To determine if plasma levels of hepatocyte growth factor could help in the differential diagnosis of patients with prolonged chest pain and elevated cardiac troponin; and to evaluate its prognostic value for one-year mortality in these patients. Method A prospective observational study. Patients over the age of 18 who were seen in the emergency room for acute chest pain lasting longer than 20 minutes and elevated cardiac troponin were included, with follow up after one year. Results We included 303 patients, 103 (34%) with myocardial infarction and 200 (66%) with other diseases. Plasma levels of hepatocyte growth factor were higher in the group without myocardial infarction: 329 pg/ml (IQR: 166-558) vs. 476 pg/ml (IQR: 264-908; p < 0.001). One-year mortality was 30.7%, higher in the group without myocardial infarction (36.5% vs. 19.4%; p = 0.002). We found a strong association between mortality and elevated levels of hepatocyte growth factor (650 pg/ml [344-1,159] vs. 339 pg/ml [205-607]; p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that levels of hepatocyte growth factor, age and the GRACE scale are independent factors for one-year mortality in these patients. Conclusions In patients with prolonged acute chest pain and elevated cardiac troponin, hepatocyte growth factor levels do not confirm or rule out acute myocardial infarction, although they may be a prognostic marker for mortality in these patients, along with age and the GRACE scale.

Study on expression and mechanism of hepatocyte growth factor in multiple myeloma based on Oncomine database and bioinformatics methods / 白血病·淋巴瘤

Objective:To investigate the expression and mechanism of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) in multiple myeloma (MM) based on the gene information in Oncomine database.Methods:Information about HGF study in Oncomine database was collected, and the changes in HGF expression level in MM were analyzed. Genecards database was used to collect HGF gene-related proteins, and STRING software was used to draw HGF-related protein network map. The physiological process of protein function enrichment was analyzed by using DAVID online tools. The relationship between HGF expression level and survival of MM patients was analyzed by using DRUGSURV database and its online tools to explore its clinical significance.Results:A total of 445 studies on HGF in different tumors were collected in Oncomine database. In 23 studies, the difference in HGF expression level between tumor tissues and normal tissues was statistically significant ( P < 0.05), including 10 items of increased HGF expression in tumor tissues and 13 items of decreased HGF expression in tumor tissues. In 4 datasets of 3 studies on the differential expression of HGF gene in MM and normal tissues in Oncomine database, the expression of HGF in MM tissues was higher than that in normal tissues (all P < 0.05). Twenty-five HGF-related proteins were collected in Genecards database, including SDC1, YWHAG, RAF1, etc. Protein function enrichment analysis showed that these proteins were mainly enriched in the negative regulation of hydrogen peroxide-mediated programmed cell death, the regulation of synaptic plasticity, the negative regulation of death domain receptors on extrinsic apoptotic signaling pathways, etc., and they were related to PI3K-AKT and tumor-related pathways. Survival analysis based on DRUGSURV database showed that there was no significant difference in overall survival rate between MM patients with high and low HGF expression ( P > 0.05). Conclusions:HGF gene may regulate the apoptosis of MM cells through PI3K-AKT pathway and play a role in the occurrence and development of MM. HGF may be a potential marker of MM, but its value in prognostic judgment needs further research.

Research Progress in Hepatocyte Growth Factor/Mesenchymal-epithelial Transition Factor Signaling Pathway:Effects and Mechanisms on Resistance to Targeted Therapy for Non-small Cell Lung Cancer / 中国医学科学院学报

Targeted therapy is an important therapeutic method for advanced non-small cell lung cancer with driver gene alteration.However,resistance to targeted therapy will inevitably happen in clinical practice,which has become a major issue demanding prompt solution.Studies have demonstrated that bypass resistance mediated by the activation of hepatocyte growth factor(HGF)/mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor(MET)signaling pathway is a common cause of resistance to targeted therapy.Presently,relevant studies have accumulated rich experience in the specific mechanisms.To be brief,HGF/MET is an important target for overcoming the resistance to targeted therapy and promises to be a leading biomarker for judging and observing the occurrence of resistance.This paper introduces the recent studies concerning the effects and mechanisms of HGF/MET signaling pathway on resistance to targeted therapy.

Co-transfection of hepatocyte growth factor and truncated TGF-ß type II receptor inhibit scar formation

Wound scarring remains a major challenge for plastic surgeons. Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β plays a key role in the process of scar formation. Previous studies have demonstrated that truncated TGF-β type II receptor (t-TGF-βRII) is unable to continue signal transduction but is still capable of binding to TGF-β, thereby blocking the TGF-β signaling pathway. Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is a multifunctional growth factor that promotes tissue regeneration and wound healing. Theoretically, the combination of HGF and t-TGF-βRII would be expected to exert a synergistic effect on promoting wound healing and reducing collagen formation. In the present study, lentivirus-mediated transfection of the two genes (t-TGF-βRII/HGF) into fibroblasts in vitro and in a rat model in vivo was used. The results demonstrated that the expression of t-TGF-βRII and HGF in NIH-3T3 cells was successfully induced. The expression of both molecules significantly reduced collagen I and III expression, and also inhibited fibroblast proliferation. Furthermore, histological examination and scar quantification revealed less scarring in the experimental wound in a rat model. Moreover, on macroscopic inspection, the experimental wound exhibited less visible scarring compared with the control. Therefore, the present study demonstrated that the combination gene therapy of t-TGF-βRII and HGF promoted wound healing, with less scarring and more epithelial tissue formation, not only by suppressing the overgrowth of collagen due to its antifibrotic effect, but also by promoting tissue regeneration.

Biological functions of growth factors in breast milk / 国际儿科学杂志

Current studies have found that breast milk contains multiple growth factors with important biological functions,which play an important role in growth and immune regulation in early life.Epidermal growth factor (EGF) can promote the proliferation and differentiation of neonatal gastrointestinal mucosa epithelium,and can prevent the development of necrotizing colitis.Transforming growth factors (TGF) include transforming growth factor α and transforming growth factor β.Transforming growth factor α is related to gastrointestinal function,while transforming growth factor β promotes IgA production and has immunomodulatory effect.Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) can not only promote gastrointestinal tract development as a nutritional factor,but also may work as an immune factor to enhance immunity.Neurotrophic factors promote early neurogenesis in the offspring of preeclampsia mothers.At the same time,the content of these growth factors in breast milk is related to the gestational age,region,diet and other factors.This article summarizes the research progress and clinical application value of these growth factors.

Research progress on the mechanism of resistance to MET inhibitors in non-small cell lung cancer and review of MET inhibitor resistance-related strategies / 中国肿瘤临床

The MET gene is an important tumor-driving gene for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Drugs targeting tumor with MET exon 14 skipping mutations bring new hope for patients. Although MET inhibitors such as tepotinib and savolitinib have shown good antitumor effects, resistance is inevitable. Studies on the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/mesenchymal- epithelial transition factor (MET) signaling pathway will not only help explore the mechanism underlying resistance to MET inhibitors, they may aid in the discovery of strategies for inhibiting and reversing drug resistance, thereby expanding the field of novel drug development. Preliminary studies have shown that the combination of HGF/MET inhibitors with other drugs may have great potential for clinical applications. This article reviews the characteristics of MET gene abnormalities, the mechanism of resistance against MET inhibitors, and the strategies for responding to resistance. Finally, the challenges posed by MET inhibitors is discussed and guidance on the direction of future development of MET inhibitors is proposed.

Biological functions of growth factors in breast milk / 国际儿科学杂志

Current studies have found that breast milk contains multiple growth factors with important biological functions, which play an important role in growth and immune regulation in early life.Epidermal growth factor(EGF)can promote the proliferation and differentiation of neonatal gastrointestinal mucosa epithelium, and can prevent the development of necrotizing colitis.Transforming growth factors(TGF)include transforming growth factor α and transforming growth factor β.Transforming growth factor α is related to gastrointestinal function, while transforming growth factor β promotes IgA production and has immunomodulatory effect.Hepatocyte growth factor(HGF)can not only promote gastrointestinal tract development as a nutritional factor, but also may work as an immune factor to enhance immunity.Neurotrophic factors promote early neurogenesis in the offspring of preeclampsia mothers.At the same time, the content of these growth factors in breast milk is related to the gestational age, region, diet and other factors.This article summarizes the research progress and clinical application value of these growth factors.

Influence of hepatocyte growth factor-transfected bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells towards renal fibrosis in rats

Background & objectives: Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) produced by endothelial cells, fibroblasts, fat cells and other interstitial cells, can promote angiogenesis, repair damaged tissues and resist fibrosis. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are located in bone marrow and secrete a variety of cytokines and are often used in the repair and regeneration of damaged tissues. This study was aimed to investigate the influence of HGF-transfected bone marrow-derived MSCs towards renal fibrosis in rats. Methods: The HGF gene-carrying adenoviral vector (Ad-HGF) was transfected into MSCs, and the Ad-HGF-modified MSCs were transplanted into rats with unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO). The localization of renal transplanted cells in the frozen section was observed with fluorescence microscope. The Masson's trichrome staining was performed to observe the renal collagen deposition, and the immunohistochemistry was performed to detect the expressions of ?-smooth muscle actin (?-SMA) and HGF in renal tissues. Reverse transcription (RT)-PCR was used to detect the mRNA expressions of ?-SMA, HGF and fibronectin (FN). Results: Ad-HGF-modified MSCs could highly express HGF in vitro. On the post-transplantation 3rd, 7th and 14th day, the 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAP)-labelled transplanted cells were seen inside renal tissues. Compared with UUO group, the renal collagen deposition in transplantation group was significantly reduced, and the expressions of ?-SMA mRNA and protein were significantly decreased, while the expressions of HGF mRNA and protein were significantly increased, and the expression of FN mRNA was significantly decreased (P<0.001). Interpretation & conclusions: Trans-renal artery injection of HGF-modified MSCs can effectively reduce the renal interstitial fibrosis in UUO rat model.

Protective effect of butylphthalide on brain in rats with acute ischemic stroke and its mechanism / 吉林大学学报(医学版)

Objective:To investigate the protective effect of butylphthalide on the brain of the rats with acute ischemic stroke, and to elucidate its mechanism in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke. Methods:Forty-eight rats were randomly divided into sham operation group, model group (focal cerebral ischemia rat model) and butylphthalide group (focal cerebral ischemia rat model + butylphthalide treatment), with 16 rats in each group.The nerve symptom scores of the rats in various groups were determined, and the brain tissue was stained by HE staining; triphenyl four azole nitrogen chloride (TTC) was used to detect the percentage of cerebral infarction area; Western blotting method and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) were used to detect the expression levels of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), matrix metalloproteinases-9 (MMP-9), and nuclear transcription factor inhibiting protein kappa B alpha(IκBα), nuclear transcription factor kappa B (NF-κB) p65(NF-κB p65) protein and mRNA in the brain tissue of the rats. Results:In sham operation group, there were no infarction and neurological defect in the brain tissue. Compared with model group, the percentage of cerebral infarction area and the neurological function score of the rats in butylphthalide group were significantly decreased(P<0.01). The structure and distribution of brain tissue cells of the rats in sham operation group were intact and uniform; most of the cells in model group were necrotic, cytoplasmic rupture, nucleus rupture and condensation; a small number of brain cells in butylphthalide group were swollen and necrotic. Compared with sham operation group, the expression levels of HGF, VEGF, MMP-2, MMP-9, and NF-κB p65 protein and mRNA in the brain tissue of the rats in model group were significantly decreased (P<0.01), and the expression levels of IκBα protein and mRNA were significantly increased (P<0.01). Compared with model group, the expression levels of HGF, VEGF, MMP-2, MMP-9, and NF-κB p65 protein and mRNA in the brain tissue of the rats in butylphthalide group were significantly increased (P<0.01),and the expression levels of IκBα protein and mRNA were significantly decreased (P<0.01). Conclusion:Butylphthalide can improve the nerve function of the rats with acute ischemic stroke and reduce the area of cerebral infarction;its mechanism may be related to increasing the HGF level in the brain tissue and promoting the cerebral angiogenesis.

Effects of three inducing factors on differentiation of bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells into lymphatic endothelial cells / 中华烧伤杂志

Objective@#To observe the effects of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), and vascular endothelial growth factor C (VEGF-C) on the differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) into lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs).@*Methods@#The third to the fifth passage of BMSCs of rats were collected for the following experiments. (1) BMSCs of rats were collected and divided into negative control group, CD90 group, CD44 group, and CD34 group according to the random number table (the same grouping method below), with 3 samples in each group. Phosphate buffer of 5 μL was added to cells in negative control group, and cells in the other 3 groups were added with 5 μL corresponding antibodies respectively. The positive expression of cell surface antigen was detected by flow cytometer. (2) BMSCs of rats in 3 batches were collected and divided into blank control group, VEGF-C group, HGF group, bFGF group, VEGF-C+ HGF group, VEGF-C+ bFGF group, HGF+ bFGF group, and VEGF-C+ HGF+ bFGF group, with 3 samples in each group. Cells in blank control group were added with 2 mL complete medium, cells in VEGF-C group were added with 2 mL complete medium and 10 μL VEGF-C of 10 μg/mL, cells in HGF group were added with 2 mL complete medium and 16 μL HGF of 10 μg/mL, and cells in bFGF group were added with 2 mL complete medium and 20 μL bFGF of 1 μg/mL. Cells in VEGF-C+ HGF group, VEGF-C+ bFGF group, HGF+ bFGF group, and VEGF-C+ HGF+ bFGF group were added with 2 mL complete medium and induction factors with corresponding concentration and volume as above. On 10 d of culture, the morphology of the cells was observed by the inverted phase contrast microscope, and the protein and mRNA expressions of lymphatic vessel endothelial hyaluronic acid receptor 1 (LYVE-1), VEGF receptor 3 (VEGFR3), and integrin α9 were detected by Western blotting and real-time fluorescent quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction respectively. (3) BMSCs of rats were collected and divided into blank control group, HGF+ VEGF-C+ bFGF group, bFGF+ VEGF-C+ HGF group, and VEGF-C+ HGF+ bFGF group, with 3 samples in each group. Cells in blank control group were added with 2 mL complete medium. Cells in HGF+ VEGF-C+ bFGF group were added with 2 mL complete medium, 16 μL HGF of 10 μg/mL, and 10 μL VEGF-C of 10 μg/mL, after 6 hours, 20 μL bFGF of 1 μg/mL was added. Cells in bFGF+ VEGF-C+ HGF group were added with 2 mL complete medium, 20 μL bFGF of 1 μg/mL, and 10 μL VEGF-C of 10 μg/mL, after 6 hours, 16 μL HGF of 10 μg/mL was added. Cells in VEGF-C+ HGF+ bFGF group were simultaneously added with 2 mL complete medium and the same concentration and volume of three inducing factors as above. In addition, BMSCs of rats in another 2 batches were collected and grouped, and they were dealt with the same methods as above except that the interval time of 6 hours in HGF+ VEGF-C+ bFGF group and bFGF+ VEGF-C+ HGF group was adjusted to 12 and 24 hours. On 10 d of culture, protein expressions of LYVE-1, VEGFR3, and integrin α9 were detected by Western blotting. Data were processed with analysis of variance of factorial design, one-way analysis of variance, and least significant difference t test, and Bonferroni correction.@*Results@#(1) The positive expression rates of surface antigen of cells in negative control group, CD90 group, CD44 group, and CD34 group were 0.39%, 99.84%, 99.90%, and 0.57%, respectively. (2) On 10 d of culture, cells in blank control group, HGF group, bFGF group, and HGF+ bFGF group presented long fusiform, while cells in the other groups presented polygonal shape. (3) On 10 d of culture, there were no protein expressions of LYVE-1, VEGFR3, and integrin α9 in cells of blank control group, HGF group, bFGF group, and HGF+ bFGF group. On 10 d of culture, protein expressions of LYVE-1, VEGFR3, and integrin α9 in cells of VEGF-C+ HGF+ bFGF group were significantly higher than those in VEGF-C group (t=24.21, 11.04, 15.43, P<0.01), VEGF-C+ HGF group (t=10.81, 9.93, 10.20, P<0.01), and VEGF-C+ bFGF group (t=11.67, 6.32, 19.00, P<0.01). Protein expressions of LYVE-1 in cells of VEGF-C+ HGF group and VEGF-C+ bFGF group were significantly higher than the protein expression in VEGF-C group (t=8.69, 15.20, P<0.01). Protein expression of VEGFR3 in cells of VEGF-C+ bFGF group was obviously higher than the protein expressions in VEGF-C group and VEGF-C+ HGF group (t=8.67, 7.21, P<0.01). Protein expression of integrin α9 in cells of VEGF-C+ HGF group was obviously higher than the protein expressions in VEGF-C group and VEGF-C+ bFGF group (t=8.80, 8.83, P<0.01). (4) On 10 d of culture, there were no mRNA expressions of LYVE-1, VEGFR3, and integrin α9 in cells of blank control group, HGF group, bFGF group, and HGF+ bFGF group. On 10 d of culture, mRNA expressions of LYVE-1 and VEGFR3 in cells of VEGF-C group were significantly lower than those in VEGF-C+ bFGF group and VEGF-C+ HGF+ bFGF group (tLYVE-1=6.22, 18.01, tVEGFR3=8.49, 15.34, P<0.01), and mRNA expression of integrin α9 were significantly lower than that in VEGF-C+ HGF group and VEGF-C+ HGF+ bFGF group (t=13.24, 9.65, P<0.01). The mRNA expressions of LYVE-1, VEGFR3, and integrin α9 in cells of VEGF-C+ HGF+ bFGF group were obviously higher than those in VEGF-C+ HGF group and VEGF-C+ bFGF group (t=13.92, 11.95, 13.72, 5.27, 5.64, 9.10, P<0.01). Compared with those of VEGF-C+ bFGF group, the mRNA expression of VEGFR3 of cells in VEGF-C+ HGF group was significantly lower (t=6.91, P<0.01), while the mRNA expression of integrin α9 of cells in VEGF-C+ HGF group was significantly higher (t=11.69, P<0.01). (5) On 10 d of culture at interval time of 6, 12, 24 h, there were no protein expressions of LYVE-1, VEGFR3, or integrin α9 in cells of blank control group. On 10 d of culture at interval time of 6, 12, 24 h, the protein expressions of LYVE-1, VEGFR3, and integrin α9 in cells of HGF+ VEGF-C+ bFGF group, bFGF+ VEGF-C+ HGF group, and VEGF-C+ HGF+ bFGF group were close (F6 h=2.25, 2.47, 2.19, F12 h=2.93, 1.47, 3.25, F24 h=0.28, 0.20, 1.01, P>0.05).@*Conclusions@#VEGF-C is a necessary factor for inducing BMSCs to differentiate into LECs. HGF and bFGF may promote the differentiation by up-regulating the expressions of integrin α9 and VEGFR3 respectively. But the induction effects of the two factors may be independent. The combination of VEGF-C, HGF, and bFGF have the best effects of promoting differentiation.

Clinical Effect of Peiyuan Tongnao Capsule Combined with “Zhisanzhen” for Post-stroke Dementia / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Objective: To observe the clinical efficacy of Peiyuan Tongnao capsule combined with "Zhisanzhen" for post-stroke dementia (PSD) and investigate its mechanism.Method: Ninety-eight eligible patients were randomly divided into control group (49 cases) and observation group (49 cases) by random number table.Both groups received donepezil tablet,10 mg/time,qd,and nimodipine tablet,30 mg/time,qd.Patients in control group additionally took "Zhisanzhen" ,qd,5 times/week.Based on the treatment in control group,patients in observation group additionally took Peiyuan Tongnao capsule,3 capsules/time,tid.The treatment course was 12 weeks.Before and at the 4th,8th and 12th week after treatment,mini-mental state examination (MMSE),montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA),activity of daily living scale (ADL),neuropsychiatric inventory (NPI) and symptoms of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) were evaluated.Before and after treatment,levels of serum hyperhomocysteinemia (Hcy),hepatocyte growth factor (HGF),oxidized low density lipoprotein (Ox-LDL) and acetylcholinesterase (AchE) were detected.Result: The total clinical effective rate was 93.88% in observation group,better than 77.55% in control group (χ2=5.333,PFcontrol=3.947,Fobservation=5.833,PFcontrol=3.876,Fobservation=6.011,Pth and 12th after treatment,scores of MMSE in the observation group were all higher than those in control group (Pth week after treatment,score of MoCA in observation group was higher than that in control group (PPPPPConclusion: Peiyuan Tongnao capsule combined with "Zhisanzhen" can improve cognitive and behavioral abilities,improve clinical efficacy,ameliorate abnormal mental behavior,relieve clinical symptoms,and regulate levels of Hcy,Ox-LDL,AchE and HGF in the treatment of post-stroke dementia.

Effect of hypernatremia in donors on perioperative liver function of recipients undergoing liver transplantation / 器官移植

Objective To evaluate the effect of hypernatremia in donors on perioperative recovery of liver function in the recipients undergoing liver transplantation. Methods Clinical data of 73 liver transplant recipients were analyzed retrospectively. According to the serum levels of sodium in donors, all recipients were divided into hypernatremia group (donor serum sodium ≥150 mmol/L, n=19) and non-hypernatremia group (donor serum sodium < 150 mmol/L, n=54). Serum alanine aminotransferase(ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score, albumin, total bilirubin (TB), serum creatinine, prothrombin time and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) in the recipients were detected at 1, 3, 7, 14 and 21 d after liver transplantation. The time of postoperative use of liver-protecting drugs in the recipients, the length of intensive care unit (ICU) stay, the average length of hospital stay and the incidence rate of postoperative complications were statistically compared and analyzed. Results Compared with the non-hypernatremia group, the serum levels of TB, ALT, AST, HGF and MELD scores of the recipients in the hypernatremia group at the postoperative 1, 3 and 7 d were significantly higher (all P < 0.05), whereas the serum albumin level was significantly decreased (P < 0.05). The prothrombin time in the hypernatremia group was significantly longer than that in the non-hypernatremia group at 3 and 7 d after operation (both P < 0.05). In the hypernatremia group, the time of postoperative use of liver-protecting drugs and the length of ICU stay were 9 (7-13) d and 11 (8-13) d, significantly longer than 4 (3-9) d and 7 (3-9) d in the non-hypernatremia group (both P < 0.05). The average length of hospital stay, serum creatinine level and incidence rate of postoperative complications did not significantly differ between two groups (all P>0.05). All recipients were recovered and discharged. Conclusions The hypernatremia in donors exert no significant effect on the perioperative liver function of the recipients, whereas it can prolong the postoperative recovery time of liver function of the recipients.

Inhibition of hepatocyte growth factor on proliferation and transdifferentiation of human Tenon capsule fibroblasts triggered by transforming growth factor-β1 in vitro / 中华实验眼科杂志

Objective To investigate the effects of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) on proliferation and transdifferentiation of human Tenon capsule fibroblasts induced by transforming growth factor-β1(TGF-β1) in vitro.Methods Human Tenon capsule fibroblasts were cultured and divided into blank control group,TGF-β1 treated group and different concentrations HGF+TGF-β1 groups.The TGF-β1 at 10 μg/L was added into culture medium of the TGF-β1 treated group,and different concentrations of HGF (25,50,100,200 μg/L) and 10 μg/L TGF-β1 were added into culture medium of the HGF25 μg/L +TGF-β1,HGF50 μg/L +TGF-β1,HGF100 μg/L +TGF-β1,HGF200 μg/L +TGF-β1 group respectively,Methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) was employed to measure the cell proliferation (absorbance at 560 nm).Immunofluorescence staining was used to evaluate and locate the expression of α-smooth muscle action (α-SMA) in the cells.The expression of α-SMA protein in the cells was detected by Western blot assay.Results Cultured cells showed fusiform in shape with the positive response for vimentin.The proliferation value of the cells was 0.203±0.025,0.497 ± 0.101,0.426 ± 0.062,0.354 ± 0.040,0.272 ± 0.084,0.241 ± 0.011 in the blank control group,TGF-β1 treated group,HGF25 μg/L +TGF-β1 group,HGF50 μg/L +TGF-β1 group,HGF100 μg/L +TGF-β group and HGF200 μg/L + TGF-β1 group,respectively,showing a significant difference among the groups (F =9.21 0,P =0.003).Compared with the TGF-β1 treated group,the proliferation values of the cells were significantly reduced in the blank control group and HGF+TGF-β1 group (all at P＜0.05).Immunofiuorescence staining showed that α-SMA protein mainly located in cytoplasm with the strong red fluorescence in the cells of the TGF-β1 treated group and weak red fluorescence in HGF+TGF-β1 group,and the expression of α-SMA was absent in the blank control group.The percentage of α-SMA-positive cells was (60.0±4.7)％ in the TGF-β1 treated group and (14.3±3.1)％ in the HGF+TGF-β1 group,with significant difference between the two groups (t =19.856,P＜0.001).The relative expression levels of the α-SMA protein in the cells were 0.642 ±0.032,1.330± 0.069 and 0.884 ±0.040 in the blank control group,TGF-β1 group and HGF100μg/L +TGF-β1 group,respectively,showing a significant difference among the groups (F =13.370,P＜ 0.001),and relative expression levels of the α-SMA protein in the cells were significantly lower in the blank controlgroup and HGF100 μg/L+TGF-β1 group than that in the TGF-β1 treated group (all at P＜0.05).Conclusions HGF can inhibit the proliferation of human Tenon capsule fibroblasts,down-regulate the expression of α-SMA protein induced by TGF-β1 and arrest the phenotype transformation of fibroblasts in vitro.

No-Touch Radiofrequency Ablation of VX2 Hepatic Tumors In Vivo in Rabbits: A Proof of Concept Study

OBJECTIVE: In a proof of concept study, we compared no-touch radiofrequency ablation (NtRFA) in bipolar mode with conventional direct tumor puncture (DTP) in terms of local tumor control (LTC), peritoneal seeding, and tumorigenic factors, in the rabbit VX2 subcapsular hepatic tumor model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty-two rabbits with VX2 subcapsular hepatic tumors were divided into three groups according to the procedure: DTP-RFA (n = 25); NtRFA (n = 25); and control (n = 12). Each of the three groups was subdivided into two sets for pathologic analysis (n = 24) or computed tomography (CT) follow-up for 6 weeks after RFA (n = 38). Ultrasonography-guided DTP-RFA and NtRFA were performed nine days after tumor implantation. LTC was defined by either achievement of complete tumor necrosis on histopathology or absence of local tumor progression on follow-up CT and autopsy. Development of peritoneal seeding was also compared among the groups. Serum hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were measured via ELISA (Elabscience Biotechnology Co.) after RFA for tumorigenic factor evaluation. RESULTS: Regarding LTC, there was a trend in NtRFA (80%, 20/25) toward better ablation than in DTP-RFA (56%, 14/25) (p = 0.069). Complete tumor necrosis was achieved in 54.5% of DTP-RFA (6/11) and 90.9% of NtRFA (10/11). Peritoneal seeding was significantly more common in DTP-RFA (71.4%, 10/14) than in NtRFA (21.4%, 3/14) (p = 0.021) or control (0%). Elevations of HGF, VEGF or IL-6 were not detected in any group. CONCLUSION: No-touch radiofrequency ablation led to lower rates of peritoneal seeding and showed a tendency toward better LTC than DTP-RFA.

Effect of adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cell transplantation in treatment of liver fibrosis and possible mechanism / 中华肝脏病杂志

Objective@#To investigate the effect of adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cell (ADSC) transplantation in the treatment of liver fibrosis rats and possible mechanism.@*Methods@#Subcutaneous adipose tissue in the inguinal region of rats was collected to isolate ADSCs. The rats with liver fibrosis induced by intraperitoneally injected carbon tetrachloride were divided into cell transplantation group and phosphate buffer saline (PBS) injection group, and the rats which were fed normally were enrolled as negative control group. The rats in the cell transplantation group were given tail vein injection of ADSCs, and those in the PBS injection group were given injection of 0.5 ml PBS. At 7 days after transplantation, blood samples were collected from the inferior vena cava to evaluate liver function; liver tissue was collected to measure the protein expression of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA); Masson trichrome staining was used to evaluate intrahepatic collagen deposition. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) were collected from the rats with liver fibrosis, and indirect co-culture of HSCs and ADSCs was performed in vitro to analyze the influence of ADSCs on the proliferation and apoptosis of HSCs. The independent samples t-test was used for comparison between groups, and an analysis of variance was used for comparison of means between multiple samples.@*Results@#ADSCs were found in liver tissue in the transplantation group, and compared with the PBS injection group, the transplantation group had significant alleviation in hepatocyte necrosis, vacuolization, and area of fibrosis and significant reductions in the serum levels of aminotransferases, while there was no significant difference in the level of albumin between the two groups. Compared with the PBS injection group, the transplantation group had significant upregulation in the protein expression of HGF and significant downregulation in the protein expression of α-SMA (both P < 0.05). In vitro co-culture for 72 hours showed that ADSCs inhibited the proliferation of HSCs, and there was a significant difference between the co-culture group and the control group with HSCs cultured alone. Caspase-3 immunostaining showed that after co-culture for 72 hours, there was a significant difference in the apoptosis rate of HSCs between the co-culture group and the control group with HSCs cultured alone (23.42% ± 3.02% vs 14.82% ± 3.93%).@*Conclusion@#ADSC transplantation can upregulate the expression of HGF in the liver, promote the apoptosis of HSCs, and thus alleviate liver fibrosis.