ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Hyposalivation is treated using oral cholinergic drugs; however, systemic side effects occasionally lead to discontinuation of treatment. We aimed to investigate the effects of transdermal pilocarpine on the salivary gland skin on saliva secretion and safety in rats. METHODS: Pilocarpine was administered to rats orally (0.5 mg/kg) or topically on the salivary gland skin (5 mg/body). Saliva volume, the number of sweat dots, and fecal weight were measured along with pilocarpine concentration in plasma and submandibular gland tissues. RESULTS: Saliva volume significantly increased 0.5 h after oral administration and 0.5, 3, and 12 h after topical administration. Fecal weight and sweat dots increased significantly 1 h after oral administration; however, no changes were observed after topical application. The pilocarpine concentration in the submandibular gland tissues of the topical group was higher than that in the oral group at 0.5, 3, and 12 h of administration. CONCLUSIONS: Pilocarpine application to salivary gland skin persistently increased salivary volume in rats without inducing sweating or diarrhea. Transdermal pilocarpine applied to the skin over the salivary glands may be an effective and safe treatment option for hyposalivation.
Subject(s)
Administration, Cutaneous , Pilocarpine , Salivary Glands , Salivation , Xerostomia , Pilocarpine/administration & dosage , Pilocarpine/pharmacology , Animals , Salivation/drug effects , Rats , Male , Salivary Glands/drug effects , Salivary Glands/metabolism , Xerostomia/chemically induced , Xerostomia/drug therapy , Muscarinic Agonists/administration & dosage , Muscarinic Agonists/pharmacology , Saliva/metabolism , Saliva/chemistry , Administration, Oral , Submandibular Gland/drug effects , Submandibular Gland/metabolism , Rats, Sprague-DawleyABSTRACT
Radiotherapy in patients with head and neck cancer fairly leads to xerostomia, profoundly affecting their quality of life. With limited effective preventive and therapeutic methods, attention has turned to exploring alternatives. This article outlines how intraglandular injection of mitochondria-boosting agents can serve as a potential strategy to reduce salivary acinar damage. This method can contribute to the thoughtful development of study protocols or medications to reduce radiation-induced salivary glands damage.
Subject(s)
Head and Neck Neoplasms , Mitochondria , Salivary Glands , Xerostomia , Xerostomia/etiology , Xerostomia/prevention & control , Humans , Mitochondria/drug effects , Mitochondria/radiation effects , Head and Neck Neoplasms/radiotherapy , Salivary Glands/radiation effects , Salivary Glands/drug effects , Salivary Glands/pathology , Radiation Injuries/prevention & control , Radiation Injuries/etiology , Animals , Radiotherapy/adverse effects , Radiotherapy/methods , Quality of LifeABSTRACT
Introduction: Salivary gland dysfunction, often resulting from salivary gland obstruction-induced inflammation, is a prevalent condition. Corticosteroid, known for its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, is commonly prescribed in clinics. This study investigates the therapeutic implications and potential side effects of dexamethasone on obstructive sialadenitis recovery using duct ligation mice and salivary gland organoid models. Methods: Functional and pathological changes were assessed after administering dexamethasone to the duct following deligation 2 weeks after maintaining ligation of the mouse submandibular duct. Additionally, lipopolysaccharide- and tumor necrosis factor-induced salivary gland organoid inflammation models were established to investigate the effects and underlying mechanisms of action of dexamethasone. Results: Dexamethasone administration facilitated SG function restoration, by increasing salivary gland weight and saliva volume while reducing saliva lag time. Histological evaluation revealed, reduced acinar cell atrophy and fibrosis with dexamethasone treatment. Additionally, dexamethasone suppressed pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1ß and TNF expression. In a model of inflammation in salivary gland organoids induced by inflammatory substances, dexamethasone restored acinar markers such as AQP5 gene expression levels, while inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF and IL6, as well as chemokines CCL2, CXCL5, and CXCL12 induction. Macrophages cultured in inflammatory substance-treated media from salivary gland organoid cultures exhibited pro-inflammatory polarization. However, treatment with dexamethasone shifted them towards an anti-inflammatory phenotype by reducing M1 markers (Tnf, Il6, Il1b, and Cd86) and elevating M2 markers (Ym1, Il10, Cd163, and Klf4). However, high-dose or prolonged dexamethasone treatment induced acino-ductal metaplasia and had side effects in both in vivo and in vitro models. Conclusions: Our findings suggest the effectiveness of corticosteroids in treating obstructive sialadenitis-induced salivary gland dysfunction by regulating pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Subject(s)
Dexamethasone , Kruppel-Like Factor 4 , Sialadenitis , Animals , Dexamethasone/pharmacology , Dexamethasone/therapeutic use , Dexamethasone/administration & dosage , Mice , Sialadenitis/drug therapy , Sialadenitis/pathology , Anti-Inflammatory Agents/pharmacology , Anti-Inflammatory Agents/administration & dosage , Anti-Inflammatory Agents/therapeutic use , Disease Models, Animal , Organoids/drug effects , Cytokines/metabolism , Mice, Inbred C57BL , Salivary Glands/drug effects , Salivary Glands/pathology , Salivary Glands/metabolism , Salivary Glands/immunology , Aquaporin 5/metabolism , Aquaporin 5/genetics , Male , Macrophages/drug effects , Macrophages/immunology , Acinar Cells/drug effects , Acinar Cells/metabolism , Acinar Cells/pathology , HumansABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Paclitaxel is a highly effective chemotherapeutic agent used to treat breast, ovarian, and other cancers. At the same time, paclitaxel causes peripheral neuropathy as a side effect in 45%-70% of patients. AIM: The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy on the development of pathological changes in the salivary glands of animals and to explore the possibility of correction of the identified changes with vitamin B/ATP complex. MATERIALS AND METHODS: To simulate toxic neuropathy, animals were injected i/p with paclitaxel 2 mg/kg for 4 days. In order to correct the identified changes, rats were injected i/m with vitamin B/ATP complex (1 mg/ kg) for 9 days. In the homogenate of the submandibular salivary glands, α-amylase activity, total proteolytic activity, total antitryptic activity, the content of medium mass molecules, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), oxidatively modified proteins, and catalase activity were determined. RESULTS: A significant increase in the content of oxidatively modified proteins, medium mass molecules, and the content of TBARS and significant decrease in the activity of catalase and amylase were determined in the salivary glands of animals with toxic neuropathy compared to these parameters in intact animals. Administration of vitamin B/ATP complex for 9 days against the background of paclitaxel-induced neuropathy led to normalization of antitryptic activity and amylase activity, a significant decrease in the content of oxidatively modified proteins, medium mass molecules, and TBARS along with a significant increase in catalase activity in the salivary glands of animals compared to the untreated rats with neuropathy. CONCLUSION: Paclitaxel-induced neuropathy caused the development of pathological changes in the salivary glands of rats, which was evidenced by a carbonyl- oxidative stress and impaired protein synthetic function. The correction with vitamin B/ATP complex restored the protein-synthetic function and the proteinase-inhibitor balance, suppressed the oxidative stress and normalized free radical processes in the salivary glands of rats.
Subject(s)
Paclitaxel , Peripheral Nervous System Diseases , Salivary Glands , Animals , Paclitaxel/adverse effects , Paclitaxel/pharmacology , Salivary Glands/drug effects , Salivary Glands/pathology , Salivary Glands/metabolism , Rats , Peripheral Nervous System Diseases/chemically induced , Peripheral Nervous System Diseases/pathology , Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic/adverse effects , Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic/pharmacology , Rats, Wistar , Oxidative Stress/drug effects , Adenosine Triphosphate/metabolism , Vitamin B Complex/pharmacology , Vitamin B Complex/therapeutic use , Male , Thiobarbituric Acid Reactive Substances/metabolism , Catalase/metabolismABSTRACT
Clinical trials of prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) targeted radiopharmaceuticals have shown encouraging results. Some agents, like lutetium-177 [177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617 ([177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617), are already approved for late line treatment of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). Projections are for continued growth of this treatment modality; [177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617 is being studied both in earlier stages of disease and in combination with other anti-cancer therapies. Further, the drug development pipeline is deep with variations of PSMA-targeting radionuclides, including higher energy alpha particles conjugated to PSMA-honing vectors. It is safe to assume that an increasing number of patients will be exposed to PSMA-targeted radiopharmaceuticals during the course of their cancer treatment. In this setting, it is important to better understand and mitigate the most commonly encountered toxicities. One particularly vexing side effect is xerostomia. In this review, we discuss the scope of the problem, inventories to better characterize and monitor this troublesome side effect, and approaches to preserve salivary function and effectively palliate symptoms. This article aims to serve as a useful reference for prescribers of PSMA-targeted radiopharmaceuticals, while also commenting on areas of missing data and opportunities for future research.
Subject(s)
Antigens, Surface , Glutamate Carboxypeptidase II , Radiopharmaceuticals , Humans , Radiopharmaceuticals/therapeutic use , Male , Glutamate Carboxypeptidase II/antagonists & inhibitors , Prostatic Neoplasms, Castration-Resistant/drug therapy , Prostatic Neoplasms, Castration-Resistant/radiotherapy , Lutetium/therapeutic use , Radioisotopes/adverse effects , Radioisotopes/administration & dosage , Salivary Glands/radiation effects , Salivary Glands/drug effects , Dipeptides/therapeutic use , Heterocyclic Compounds, 1-Ring/therapeutic useABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Arterial hypertension is a systemic condition that affects about 35% of the world population. The drugs that are used for its control can produce hyposalivation. This work evaluated the effect of photobiomodulation on salivary flow rate, salivary pH, total protein concentration, and calcium concentration in individuals using antihypertensive medications. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 41 subjects were randomly allocated in one of two groups: control (placebo) and photobiomodulation. The subjects had their salivary glands (20 sites) irradiated with a laser emitting at 808 nm, 4J/site once a week for 4 weeks and had their salivary flow measured before and after the whole treatment. RESULTS: The intragroup analysis (before and after treatment) shows a significant difference for both non-stimulated and stimulated salivary flow in the photobiomodulation group (p = 0.0007 and p = 0.0001, respectively). Comparing the placebo with the photobiomodulation group, significant differences were found for both non-stimulated (p = 0.0441) and stimulated salivary flow (p = 0.0441) after the treatment. No significant differences were found in pH, total protein concentration, calcium concentration. CONCLUSION: Despite the usage of drugs that influence the nervous system and typically result in a reduction of saliva production, photobiomodulation demonstrated a remarkable ability to enhance saliva production by a significant 75%.
Subject(s)
Antihypertensive Agents , Low-Level Light Therapy , Saliva , Xerostomia , Humans , Low-Level Light Therapy/methods , Female , Male , Xerostomia/etiology , Xerostomia/drug therapy , Xerostomia/therapy , Middle Aged , Antihypertensive Agents/pharmacology , Antihypertensive Agents/therapeutic use , Saliva/metabolism , Adult , Calcium/metabolism , Aged , Hypertension/drug therapy , Hypertension/therapy , Hydrogen-Ion Concentration , Salivary Glands/drug effects , Salivary Glands/radiation effects , Salivary Glands/metabolism , Salivation/drug effects , Salivation/radiation effectsABSTRACT
This study aimed to explore the potential protective impacts of Moringa oleifera extract on major alteration in salivary glands of rats exposed to sodium valproate (VA). Groups were defined as control, control+moringa extract, sodium valproate, and sodium valproate+moringa extract. Antioxidant and oxidant status, activities of digestive and metabolic enzymes were examined. VA treatment led to various biochemical changes in the salivary glands, including decreased levels of antioxidants like glutathione, glutathione-S-transferase, and superoxide dismutase (except for sublingual superoxide dismutase). Conversely, a decrease in alpha-amylase, alkaline and acid phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase, protease, and maltase activities were observed. The study also demonstrated that VA induces oxidative stress, increases lipid peroxidation, sialic acid, and nitric oxide levels in the salivary glands. Total oxidant capacity was raised in all glands except in the sublingual gland. The electrophoretic patterns of proteins were similar. Moringa oleifera extract exhibited protective properties, reversing these VA-induced biochemical changes due to its antioxidant and therapeutic attributes. This research suggests that moringa extract might serve as an alternative treatment approach for individuals using VA and experiencing salivary gland issues, although further research is necessary to confirm these findings in human subjects.
Subject(s)
Antioxidants , Moringa oleifera , Plant Extracts , Salivary Glands , Valproic Acid , Moringa oleifera/chemistry , Animals , Plant Extracts/pharmacology , Plant Extracts/chemistry , Plant Extracts/isolation & purification , Rats , Salivary Glands/drug effects , Salivary Glands/metabolism , Valproic Acid/pharmacology , Antioxidants/pharmacology , Antioxidants/chemistry , Male , Oxidative Stress/drug effects , Rats, Wistar , Lipid Peroxidation/drug effectsABSTRACT
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) is a substance used to treat chronic sialorrhea, muscle dystonia, and is used in cosmetic applications. Measuring the potency of BoNT is crucial because it acts even with a small amount. However, the current methods for measuring the potency of BoNT involve using two-dimensional neuroblastoma cell line-based methods. In this study, we aimed to develop a new method to measure the potency of BoNT using a three-dimensional organoid culture system. MATERIALS AND METHOD: We established the optimal conditions for coculturing N2a neuronal cells with murine salivary gland organoids (SGOs). After determining the appropriate chemical concentrations, we treated the SGOs cocultured with N2a cells with BoNT type A (BoNT/A). We confirmed the expression of salivary gland-related genes and proteins using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunofluorescence staining. RESULTS: The SGOs cocultured with N2a cells showed that the dendrites or axons of neuronal cells were in contact with the outermost layer of the SGOs. When we applied acetylcholine and neostigmine to the coculture systems, the mRNA expression of Aqp5 and Bhlha15, associated with salivary gland secretory cells, increased. However, this effect was reversed when BoNT/A was applied, as confirmed through real-time PCR. CONCLUSION: We found that the coculture system of SGOs and N2a neuronal cells can potentially serve as a potency testing platform for BoNT. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: NA Laryngoscope, 134:2697-2704, 2024.
Subject(s)
Botulinum Toxins, Type A , Coculture Techniques , Organoids , Salivary Glands , Animals , Mice , Organoids/drug effects , Salivary Glands/cytology , Salivary Glands/drug effects , Botulinum Toxins, Type A/pharmacology , Neurons/drug effects , Botulinum Toxins/pharmacology , Cell Line, TumorABSTRACT
Aluminum (Al) is one of the most abundant elements on Earth, and its high extraction rate and industrial use make human exposure very common. As Al may be a human toxicant, it is important to investigate the effects of Al exposure, mainly at low doses and for prolonged periods, by simulating human exposure. This work aimed to study the effects of low-dose exposure to chloride aluminum (AlCl3) on the oxidative biochemistry, proteomic profile, and morphology of the major salivary glands. Wistar male rats were exposed to 8.3 mg/kg/day of AlCl3 via intragastric gavage for 60 days. Then, the parotid and submandibular glands were subjected to biochemical assays, proteomic evaluation, and histological analysis. Al caused oxidative imbalance in both salivary glands. Dysregulation of protein expression, mainly of those related to cytoarchitecture, energy metabolism and glandular function, was detected in both salivary glands. Al also promoted histological alterations, such as acinar atrophy and an increase in parenchymal tissue. Prolonged exposure to Al, even at low doses, was able to modulate molecular alterations associated with morphological impairments in the salivary glands of rats. From this perspective, prolonged Al exposure may be a risk to exposed populations and their oral health.
Subject(s)
Aluminum/adverse effects , Salivary Glands/drug effects , Salivary Glands/metabolism , Aluminum Chloride/adverse effects , Animals , Male , Oxidation-Reduction/drug effects , Oxidative Stress/drug effects , Proteomics/methods , Rats , Rats, WistarABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Methylmercury (MeHg) remains a public health issue since developing organisms are particularly vulnerable to this environmental contaminant. This study investigated the effect of maternal MeHg exposure on the modulation of proteomic profile of parotid (PA), submandibular (SM), and sublingual (SL) glands of offspring rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Pregnant Wistar rats were daily exposed to 40 µg/kg MeHg during both gestational and lactation periods. The proteomic profiles of the major salivary glands of the offspring rats were analyzed through mass spectrometry. RESULTS: The offspring rats exposed to MeHg showed significant alterations in the proteomic profiles of the PA, SM, and SL glands. Altered proteins were associated with cytoskeleton components, tissue morphogenesis, and response to stimulus and stress. CONCLUSION: This original study showed that maternal MeHg exposure significantly modulates the expression of proteins and induces alterations in the proteomic profiles of developing salivary glands.
Subject(s)
Methylmercury Compounds/toxicity , Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects/genetics , Proteome/drug effects , Salivary Glands/drug effects , Animals , Female , Humans , Lactation/drug effects , Male , Mass Spectrometry , Maternal Exposure/adverse effects , Maternal Exposure/prevention & control , Morphogenesis/drug effects , Pregnancy , Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects/chemically induced , Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects/pathology , Proteome/genetics , Rats , Salivary Glands/metabolismABSTRACT
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Previous studies have shown that N-acetylcysteine (NAC) supplementation with the simultaneous inclusion of HFD prevents salivary glands from oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. In this experiment, we examined if NAC supplementation could reverse the harmful effect of HFD on mitochondrial function, reduce the severity of apoptosis, and the activity of pro-oxidative enzymes in the salivary glands of rats with confirmed hyperglycemia. SUBJECTS/METHODS: Wistar rats were fed the standard or high-fat (HFD) diet for 10 weeks. After 6 weeks of the experiment, HFD rats were diagnosed with hyperglycemia and for the next 4 weeks, the animals were given NAC intragastrically. In the mitochondrial fraction of the parotid (PG) and submandibular salivary glands (SMG), we assessed redox status, inflammation, and apoptosis. RESULTS: The inclusion of NAC increased the activity of mitochondrial complexes I and II + III as well as decreased the concentration of interleukin-1ß, tumor necrosis factor α, and caspase-3, but only in the parotid glands of rats with hyperglycemia compared to the HFD group. However, N-acetylcysteine supplementation did not reduce the activity of caspase-9 or the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio in PG and SMG mitochondria. In both salivary glands we observed reduced activity of cytochrome c oxidase, NADPH oxidase, and xanthine oxidase, as well as hindered production of ROS and lower ADP/ATP radio, but the levels of these parameters were not comparable to the control group. CONCLUSIONS: We demonstrated that NAC supplementation restores the glutathione ratio only in the mitochondria of the submandibular salivary glands. The supply of NAC did not significantly affect the other measured parameters. Our results indicate that NAC supplementation provides little protection against free radicals, apoptosis, and inflammation in the salivary gland mitochondria of HFD rats. Stimulated salivary secretion in hyperglycaemic rats supplemented with NAC seems to be closely related to mitochondrial respiratory capacity and appropriate ATP level.
Subject(s)
Acetylcysteine/pharmacology , Apoptosis/drug effects , Hyperglycemia/drug therapy , Mitochondria/metabolism , Oxidative Stress/drug effects , Salivary Glands/metabolism , Adenosine Triphosphate/metabolism , Animals , Antioxidants/metabolism , Citrate (si)-Synthase/metabolism , Diet, High-Fat , Dietary Supplements , Glutathione/metabolism , Hydrogen Peroxide/metabolism , Hyperglycemia/metabolism , Inflammation/metabolism , Male , Rats , Rats, Wistar , Salivary Glands/drug effectsABSTRACT
Primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) is a chronic autoimmune disease resulting from the inflammatory infiltration of exocrine glands, mainly salivary and lacrimal glands, leading to secretory dysfunction and serious complications including debilitating fatigue, systemic autoimmunity, and lymphoma. Like other autoimmune disorders, a strong interferon (IFN) signature is present among subsets of pSS patients, suggesting the involvement of innate immunity in pSS pathogenesis. NCR3/NKp30 is a natural killer (NK) cell-specific activating receptor regulating the cross talk between NK and dendritic cells including type II IFN secretion upon NK-cell activation. A genetic association between single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the NCR3/NKp30 promoter gene and a higher susceptibility for pSS has been previously described, with pSS patients most frequently carrying the major allele variant associated with a higher NKp30 transcript and IFN-γ release as a consequence of the receptor engagement. In the present study, we combined RNA-sequencing and histology from pSS salivary gland biopsies to better characterize NKp30 (NCR3) and its ligand B7/H6 (NCR3LG1) in pSS salivary gland tissues. Levels of NCR3/NKp30 were significantly increased both in salivary glands and in circulating NK cells of pSS patients compared with sicca controls, especially in salivary glands with organized ectopic lymphoid structures. In line with this observation, a strong correlation between NCR3/NKp30 levels and salivary gland infiltrating immune cells (CD3, CD20) was found. Furthermore, NCR3/NKp30 levels also correlated with higher IFN-γ, Perforin, and Granzyme-B expression in pSS SGs with organized ectopic lymphoid structures, suggesting an activation state of NK cells infiltrating SG tissue. Of note, NKp30+ NK cells accumulated at the border of the inflammatory foci, while the NKp30 ligand, B7/H6, is shown to be expressed mainly by ductal epithelial cells in pSS salivary glands. Finally, immunomodulatory treatment, such as the B-cell depleting agent rituximab, known to reduce the infiltration of immune cells in pSS SGs, prevented the upregulation of NCR3/NKp30 within the glands.
Subject(s)
Natural Cytotoxicity Triggering Receptor 3/metabolism , Salivary Glands/immunology , Sjogren's Syndrome/immunology , Tertiary Lymphoid Structures/immunology , Humans , Immunologic Factors/therapeutic use , Killer Cells, Natural/immunology , Rituximab/therapeutic use , Salivary Glands/drug effects , Salivary Glands/metabolism , Sjogren's Syndrome/drug therapy , Sjogren's Syndrome/metabolism , Up-RegulationABSTRACT
Salivary gland dysfunction (SGD) induced by chemo- and radiotherapy for head and neck cancer (HNC) has always been a difficult problem in modern medicine. The quality of life of a large number of HNC patients is severely impaired by SGD such as xerostomia and dysphagia. In recent years, several studies have found that acupuncture can improve patients' salivary secretion, but it has not yet been approved as an alternative therapy for SGD. For this reason, we collected the clinical study reports on acupuncture in the treatment of SGD induced by chemo- and radiotherapy in HNC patients in the past 20 years, and analyzed and discussed the advantages and disadvantages of these studies with respect to tumor types, group setting, intervention modality, acupoints selection, outcome evaluation, and safety. We believed that acupuncture is beneficial for SGD, but the existing objective evidence is insufficient to support its effectiveness. Therefore, improving the Standards for Reporting Interventions in Clinical Trials of Acupuncture, selecting the optimal combination of acupoints through scientific and rigorous study design, and exploring the potential mechanism of acupuncture in the treatment of diseases combined with the meridian theory may be effective ways to promote the acceptance of acupuncture as an alternative therapy for SGD in future. The significance of this review is to provide a reference for researchers to carry out high-quality clinical trials of acupuncture in the treatment of SGD in future from the perspective of the combination of modern medicine and traditional Chinese medicine.
Subject(s)
Acupuncture Therapy , Head and Neck Neoplasms , Salivary Gland Diseases , Clinical Trials as Topic , Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions/prevention & control , Head and Neck Neoplasms/drug therapy , Head and Neck Neoplasms/radiotherapy , Humans , Radiotherapy/adverse effects , Salivary Gland Diseases/etiology , Salivary Gland Diseases/prevention & control , Salivary Glands/drug effects , Salivary Glands/physiopathology , Salivary Glands/radiation effectsABSTRACT
Salivary gland stem cells (SGSCs) are potential cell sources for the treatment of salivary gland diseases. The control of cell survival is an essential factor for applying stem cells to regenerative medicine or stem cell-based research. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of the ROCK inhibitor Y-27632 on the survival of SGSCs and its underlying mechanisms. SGSCs were isolated from mouse submandibular glands and cultured in suspension. Treatment with Y-27632 restored the viability of SGSCs that was significantly decreased during isolation and the subsequent culture. Y-27632 upregulated the expression of anti-apoptotic protein BCL-2 in SGSCs and, in the apoptosis assay, significantly reduced apoptotic and necrotic cell populations. Matrigel was used to mimic the extracellular environment of an intact salivary gland. The expression of genes regulating apoptosis and the ROCK signaling pathway was significantly reduced when SGSCs were embedded in Matrigel. SGSCs cultured in Matrigel and treated with Y-27632 showed no difference in the total numbers of spheroids and expression levels of apoptosis-regulating genes. Matrigel-embedded SGSCs treated with Y-27632 increased the number of spheroids with budding structures and the expression of acinar cell-specific marker AQP5. We demonstrate the protective effects of Y-27632 against dissociation-induced apoptosis of SGSCs during their culture in vitro.
Subject(s)
Amides/pharmacology , Pyridines/pharmacology , Salivary Glands/drug effects , rho-Associated Kinases/antagonists & inhibitors , Animals , Apoptosis , Cell Death , Cell Survival , Cells, Cultured , Collagen/chemistry , Drug Combinations , Extracellular Matrix/metabolism , Female , Laminin/chemistry , Mice , Mice, Inbred C57BL , Mice, Inbred DBA , Necrosis , Proteoglycans/chemistry , Spheroids, Cellular , Stem Cells/cytology , Submandibular Gland/drug effectsABSTRACT
Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (s.l.), commonly known as brown dog tick, is a widely distributed tick species that is substantially important for human and veterinary medicine. Therefore, it is the target of different control methods. Carvacrol and its semisynthetic derivative, acetylcarvacrol, are promising chemical compounds for alternative tick control. Thus, this study aimed to compare the repellent activities of carvacrol and acetylcarvacrol at different concentrations and drying times. Additionally, morphological alterations found in salivary glands were evaluated through histological techniques after exposure to acetylcarvacrol. The impact of the morphological changes on the development and survival of acini/cells in salivary glands was measured by a semiquantitative analysis. The repellent action of both compounds did not differ when evaluated at different concentrations, although acetylcarvacrol increased its effects as the concentration raised. Regarding the different drying times, acetylcarvacrol maintained its effects after 3 hours of exposure, while the efficacy of carvacrol decreased during this time period. Salivary glands of unfed R. sanguineus s.l. females showed dose-dependent alterations in the size and shape of acini as well as cytoplasmic vacuolization. Loss of the acinar cell limit, rupture of secretory granules and nuclear changes in the cells were also observed in the treated groups. Thus, our results demonstrated the potential of acetylcarvacrol to act as repellent against R. sanguineus s.l. Additionally, the morphological alterations found in salivary glands may interfere with the feeding process of ticks, which contributes to mitigate infestation by this species.
Subject(s)
Cymenes/pharmacology , Ixodidae/drug effects , Salivary Glands/drug effects , Acaricides/pharmacology , Animals , Dogs , Insect Repellents/pharmacology , Rhipicephalus sanguineus/drug effects , Salivary Glands/pathology , Tick Control/methods , Tick Infestations/veterinaryABSTRACT
A severe consequence of radiation therapy in patients with head and neck cancer is persistent salivary gland hypofunction which causes xerostomia and oral infections. We previously showed that irradiation (IR) of salivary glands in mice triggers initial transient increases in mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROSmt), mitochondrial [Ca2+] ([Ca2+]mt), and activated caspase-3 in acinar cells. In contrast, loss of salivary secretion is persistent. Herein we assessed the role of ROSmt in radiation-induced irreversible loss of salivary gland function. We report that treatment of mice with the mitochondrial-targeted antioxidant, MitoTEMPO, resulted in almost complete protection of salivary gland secretion following either single (15 Gy) or fractionated (5 × 3 Gy) doses of irradiation. Salivary gland cells isolated from MitoTEMPO-treated, irradiated, mice displayed significant attenuation of the initial increases in ROSmt, ([Ca2+]mt, and activated caspase-3 as compared to cells from irradiated, but untreated, animals. Importantly, MitoTEMPO treatment prevented radiation-induced decrease in STIM1, consequently protecting store-operated Ca2+ entry which is critical for saliva secretion. Together, these findings identify the initial increase in ROSmt, that is induced by irradiation, as a critical driver of persistent salivary gland hypofunction. We suggest that the mitochondrially targeted antioxidant, MitoTEMPO, can be potentially important in preventing IR-induced salivary gland dysfunction.
Subject(s)
Antioxidants/pharmacology , Mitochondria/drug effects , Salivary Glands/drug effects , Salivary Glands/radiation effects , Animals , Calcium/metabolism , Caspase 3/metabolism , Dose Fractionation, Radiation , Enzyme Activation , Mice , Mitochondria/enzymology , Mitochondria/metabolism , Organophosphorus Compounds/pharmacology , Piperidines/pharmacology , Radiation, Ionizing , Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism , Saliva/metabolism , Salivary Glands/metabolism , Salivary Glands/physiopathology , Stromal Interaction Molecule 1/metabolismABSTRACT
Antioxidant agents are promising pharmaceuticals to prevent salivary gland (SG) epithelial injury from radiotherapy and their associated irreversible dry mouth symptoms. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is a well-known antioxidant that can exert growth or inhibitory biological effects in normal or pathological tissues leading to disease prevention. The effects of EGCG in the various SG epithelial compartments are poorly understood during homeostasis and upon radiation (IR) injury. This study aims to: (1) determine whether EGCG can support epithelial proliferation during homeostasis; and (2) investigate what epithelial cells are protected by EGCG from IR injury. Ex vivo mouse SG were treated with EGCG from 7.5-30 µg/mL for up to 72 h. Next, SG epithelial branching morphogenesis was evaluated by bright-field microscopy, immunofluorescence, and gene expression arrays. To establish IR injury models, linear accelerator (LINAC) technologies were utilized, and radiation doses optimized. EGCG epithelial effects in these injury models were assessed using light, confocal and electron microscopy, the Griess assay, immunohistochemistry, and gene arrays. SG pretreated with EGCG 7.5 µg/mL promoted epithelial proliferation and the development of pro-acinar buds and ducts in regular homeostasis. Furthermore, EGCG increased the populations of epithelial progenitors in buds and ducts and pro-acinar cells, most probably due to its observed antioxidant activity after IR injury, which prevented epithelial apoptosis. Future studies will assess the potential for nanocarriers to increase the oral bioavailability of EGCG.
Subject(s)
Acinar Cells/drug effects , Acinar Cells/radiation effects , Catechin/analogs & derivatives , Radiation-Protective Agents/pharmacology , Salivary Glands/drug effects , Salivary Glands/radiation effects , Animals , Apoptosis/drug effects , Catechin/pharmacology , Cell Line , Epithelial Cells/drug effects , Epithelium/drug effects , Epithelium/metabolism , Humans , Immunohistochemistry , Oxidative Stress , Radiation Injuries/prevention & controlABSTRACT
SCOPE: This study aims to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy and mechanisms of Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP) in primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS). METHODS AND RESULTS: Non-obese diabetic mice (the pSS model) are randomly divided into four groups: Low dose LBP (LBP.L, 5 mg kg-1 d-1 ), high dose LBP (10 mg kg-1 d-1 ), low dose interleukin (IL)-2 (25 000 IU/d), and control (saline water). Drugs were treated for 12 weeks. LBP.L significantly reduces the salivary gland inflammation compared with the control group (histological score p LBP.L vs Control = 0.019; foci number: p LBP.L vs Control = 0.038). LBP.L also remarkably reduces the effector follicular helper T (Tfh) cells and the CD4+ IL-17A+ helper T (Th17) cells in both spleen and cervical lymph node (cLN) cells. Additionally, the ratios of regulatory T cell (Treg)/Tfh cells and Treg/Th17 cells are substantially increased in mice treated with LBP.L in both spleen and cLNs. LBP also inhibits Th17 and Tfh cells and markedly increases the Treg/Tfh ratio in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. CONCLUSION: LBP.L inhibits the progression of pSS in mice, associated with modulation of T cell differentiation.
Subject(s)
Drugs, Chinese Herbal/pharmacology , Salivary Glands/drug effects , Sjogren's Syndrome/drug therapy , Animals , Autoantibodies/metabolism , Disease Models, Animal , Drugs, Chinese Herbal/administration & dosage , Drugs, Chinese Herbal/adverse effects , Female , Germinal Center/drug effects , Germinal Center/pathology , Humans , Leukocytes, Mononuclear/drug effects , Memory T Cells/drug effects , Mice, Inbred NOD , Salivary Glands/pathology , Salivary Glands/physiopathology , Sjogren's Syndrome/immunology , Sjogren's Syndrome/pathology , Spleen/cytology , Spleen/drug effects , T-Lymphocytes, RegulatoryABSTRACT
Among the pathologies affecting the salivary glands, the Sjögren's syndrome (SS), an autoimmune disease, causes progressive destruction of the glandular tissue. The effect of SS is particularly evident on the labial glands and the morphological analysis of these minor glands is considered useful for diagnosis. Cevimeline hydrochloride (SNI), a selective muscarinic agonist drug, is one of the elective treatments for the hyposalivation due to SS, acting not only on major salivary glands, but also on labial glands since their secretion is primarily under parasympathetic control. Aim of this study is to describe the morphology of human labial glands treated with SNI by light, transmission, and high-resolution scanning electron microscopy. Moreover, a morphometric analysis was applied to the light and transmission electron microscopy micrographs to obtain data that were then compared with analogous data collected on control and carbachol-treated labial glands. Following SNI administration, the mucous tubules exhibited enlarged lumina, which were filled with a dense mucous secretion. Occasionally, small broken debris of the cells were retrieved into the lumen. In the mucous secretory cells, some mucous droplets fused to form a large vacuole-like structure. Similarly, the seromucous acini showed both dilated lumina and canaliculi. These above reported signs of secretion were confirmed through morphometric analysis and a milder action of SNI than carbachol on labial parenchyma was observed. This study confirmed that SNI also evoked secretion on labial glands and that its effect is more physiologic than that of the pan-muscarinic agonists.
Subject(s)
Carbachol , Lip , Salivary Glands , Carbachol/pharmacology , Humans , Quinuclidines , Salivary Glands/anatomy & histology , Salivary Glands/drug effects , Sjogren's Syndrome , ThiophenesABSTRACT
BACKGROUND/AIM: The ingestion of contaminated seafood by MeHg is considered the main route of human exposure, turning the salivary gland one important target organ. The salivary glands play critical roles in maintaining oral health homeostasis, producing saliva that maintains the oral microbiota, initiation of the digestion of macromolecules, and being essential in maintaining the integrity of the adjacent soft tissues and teeth. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the effects of MeHg exposure on human salivary gland cells line. METHODS: Cells were exposed to 1-6 µM of MeHg for 24 h, and analysis of toxicity was performed. Based on these results, the LC50 was calculated and two concentrations were chosen (0.25 and 2.5 µM MeHg) to evaluate intracellular mercury (Hg) accumulation (THg), metabolic viability and oxidative stress parameters (GSH:GSSG ratio, lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation and DNA damage). RESULTS: The results demonstrated accumulation of THg as we increased the MeHg concentrations in the exposure and, the higher the dose, the lower is the cell metabolic response. In addition, the 2.5 µM MeHg concentration also triggered oxidative stress in human salivary gland cells by depleting the antioxidant competence of GSH:GSSG ratio and increasing lipid peroxidation and proteins carbonyl levels, but no damages to DNA integrity. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, although these two elected doses did not show lethal effects, the highest dose triggered oxidative stress and new questionings about long-term exposure models are raised to investigate furthers cellular damages to human salivary gland cells caused by MeHg exposure to extrapolate in a translational perspective.