A regulatory role of the medial septum in the chloroquine-induced acute itch through local GABAergic system and GABAergic pathway to the anterior cingulate cortex.

Itch, a common somatic sensation, serves as a crucial protective system. Recent studies have unraveled the neural mechanisms of itch at peripheral, spinal cord as well as cerebral levels. However, a comprehensive understanding of the central mechanism governing itch transmission and regulation remains elusive. Here, we report the role of the medial septum (MS), an integral component of the basal forebrain, in modulating the acute itch processing. The increases in c-Fos+ neurons and calcium signals within the MS during acute itch processing were observed. Pharmacogenetic activation manipulation of global MS neurons suppressed the scratching behaviors induced by chloroquine or compound 48/80. Microinjection of GABA into the MS or pharmacogenetic inhibition of non-GABAergic neurons markedly suppressed chloroquine-induced scratching behaviors. Pharmacogenetic activation of the MS-ACC GABAergic pathway attenuated chloroquine-induced acute itch. Hence, our findings reveal that MS has a regulatory role in the chloroquine-induced acute itch through local increased GABA to inhibit non-GABAergic neurons and the activation of MS-ACC GABAergic pathway.

Analgesic Effect of Exercise on Neuropathic Pain via Regulating the Complement Component 3 of Reactive Astrocytes.

BACKGROUND: Exercise has been proven to be an efficient intervention in attenuating neuropathic pain. However, the underlying mechanisms that drive exercise analgesia remain unknown. In this study, we aimed to examine the role of complement component 3 (C3) in neuropathic pain and whether antinociceptive effects are produced by exercise via regulating C3 in mice. METHODS: In this study, using a spared nerve injury (SNI)-induced neuropathic pain mice model, C57BL/6J mice were divided into 3 groups: Sham mice, SNI mice, and SNI + Exercise (Ex) mice with 30-minute low-intensity aerobic treadmill running (10 m/min, no inclination). Paw withdrawal threshold; thermal withdrawal latency; and glial fibrillary acidic protein, C3, tumor necrosis factor-α, and interlukin-1ß expression in the spinal cord were monitored. C3 knockout (KO) mice were further used to verify the role of C3 in neuropathic pain. RESULTS: von Frey test, acetone test, and CatWalk gait analysis revealed that treadmill exercise for 4 weeks reversed pain behaviors. In addition, exercise reduced astrocyte reactivity (SNI mean = 14.5, 95% confidence interval [CI], 12.7-16.3; SNI + Ex mean = 10.3, 95% CI, 8.77-11.9, P = .0003 SNI + Ex versus SNI) and inflammatory responses in the spinal cord after SNI. Moreover, it suppressed the SNI-induced upregulation of C3 expression in the spinal cord (SNI mean = 5.46, 95% CI, 3.39-7.53; SNI + Ex mean = 2.41, 95% CI, 1.42-3.41, P = .0054 SNI + Ex versus SNI in Western blot). C3 deficiency reduced SNI-induced pain and spinal astrocyte reactivity (wild type mean = 7.96, 95% CI, 6.80-9.13; C3 KO mean = 5.98, 95% CI, 5.14-6.82, P = .0052 C3 KO versus wild type). Intrathecal injection of recombinant C3 (rC3) was sufficient to produce mechanical (rC3-Ex mean = 0.77, 95% CI, 0.15-1.39; rC3 mean = 0.18, 95% CI, -0.04 to 0.41, P = .0168 rC3-Ex versus rC3) and cold (rC3-Ex mean = 1.08, 95% CI, 0.40-1.77; rC3 mean = 3.46, 95% CI, 1.45-5.47, P = .0025 rC3-Ex versus rC3) allodynia in mice. Importantly, exercise training relieved C3-induced mechanical and cold allodynia, and the analgesic effect of exercise was attenuated by a subeffective dose of intrathecal injection of C3. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, these results suggest that exercise suppresses neuropathic pain by regulating astroglial C3 expression and function, thereby providing a rationale for the analgesic effect of exercise as an acceptable alternative approach for treating neuropathic pain.

Luteolin, apigenin, and chrysin inhibit lipotoxicity-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation and autophagy damage in macrophages by suppressing endoplasmic reticulum stress.

Lipotoxicity leads to numerous metabolic disorders such as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Luteolin, apigenin, and chrysin are three flavones with known antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, but whether they inhibit lipotoxicity-mediated NLRP3 inflammasome activation was unclear. To address this question, we used J774A.1 macrophages and Kupffer cells stimulated with 100 µM palmitate (PA) in the presence or absence of 20 µM of each flavone. PA increased p-PERK, p-IRE1α, p-JNK1/2, CHOP, and TXNIP as well as p62 and LC3-II expression and induced autophagic flux damage. Caspase-1 activation and IL-1ß release were also noted after 24 h of exposure to PA. In the presence of the PERK inhibitor GSK2656157, PA-induced CHOP and TXNIP expression and caspase-1 activation were mitigated. Compared with PA treatment alone, Bcl-2 coupled to beclin-1 was elevated and autophagy was reversed by the JNK inhibitor SP600125. With luteolin, apigenin, and chrysin treatment, PA-induced ROS production, ER stress, TXNIP expression, autophagic flux damage, and apoptosis were ameliorated. Moreover, TXNIP binding to NLRP3 and IL-1ß release in response to LPS/PA challenge were reduced. These results suggest that luteolin, apigenin, and chrysin protect hepatic macrophages against PA-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation and autophagy damage by attenuating endoplasmic reticulum stress.

E3 ubiquitin ligase STUB1 affects the mTORC1 pathway through p62 and participates in regulating the differentiation of follicular helper T cells in rheumatoid arthritis.

OBJECTIVE: The abnormal expansion of Tfh cells plays a key role in chronic inflammation of RA joint. We speculated that STUB1 is an important regulatory factor in promoting the differentiation of Tfh cells in RA. CONTENT AND METHODS: The proportion of Tfh cells and the level of STUB1 in Tfh cells was measured. CD4+T cells were isolated from PBMCs of RA patients, and the percentage of Tfh cells was detected after up- or down-regulating the expression of STUB1. The levels of mTORC1 pathway activator p-mTOR and p-S6K were measured by Western blot. The ubiquitination of p62 by STUB1 and its ubiquitination type as well as the activation of mTORC1 was detected in vitro, and the activation of the mTORC1 and the differentiation of Tfh cells was detected in STUB1-upregulated CD4+ T cells with overexpressed p62. RESULTS: The level of STUB1 is elevated in Tfh cells of patients. Up-regulation of STUB1 can promote the differentiation of Tfh cells. STUB1 promotes the degradation of p62 via K48-linked ubiquitination and promotes the activation of mTORC1. Overexpression of p62 can reverse the promoting effect of STUB1 on the differentiation of Tfh cells and the activation of mTORC1. CONCLUSION: STUB1 can promote the differentiation of Tfh cells in RA by mediating the activation of mTORC1 pathway through ubiquitination of p62.

Impact of Mir196a-2 Genotypes on Colorectal Cancer Risk in Taiwan.

We aimed to investigate the association between genotypes for mir146a and mir196a-2 and the risk of developing colorectal cancer (CRC). We used polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) to determine the mir146a rs2910164 and mir196a-2 rs11614913 genotypes in 362 CRC patients and 362 controls. We also assessed the interactions between these genotypes and age, gender, smoking, alcohol consumption, and BMI status on CRC risk. Additionally, the serum expression level of mir196a-2 was quantified using quantitative reverse transcription-PCR. Our findings demonstrated that among the controls, the proportions of TT, CT, and CC genotypes of mir196a-2 rs11614913 were 32.3%, 48.1%, and 19.6%, respectively. As for the cases, the proportions were 24.6%, 45.0%, and 30.4%, respectively. Logistic regression analysis revealed that the CC genotype carriers had a 2.04-fold increased risk (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.36-3.06, p = 0.0008). Furthermore, carriers of the CT + CC genotypes also exhibited a significant association with CRC risk (odds ratio [OR] = 1.46, 95% CI = 1.06-2.03, p = 0.0261). Moreover, carriers of the CC genotype had significantly higher serum levels of mir196a-2 compared to those with the TT genotype (p < 0.0001), indicating a genotype-phenotype correlation. No association was found regarding mir146a rs2910164. In conclusion, mir196a-2 rs2910164 genotypes, along with their associated expression, can serve as predictive markers for CRC risk.

E3 ubiquitin ligases STUB1/CHIP contributes to the Th17/Treg imbalance via the ubiquitination of aryl hydrocarbon receptor in rheumatoid arthritis.

STIP1-homologous U-Box containing protein 1 (STUB1) is involved in the development of immune pathologies and the regulation of T cell. However, the potential role of STUB1 in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), especially in the regulation of T cells, remains elusive. Here we show that STUB1 promotes the imbalance of Th17/Treg cells through non-degradative ubiquitination of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR). Using Western blot and flow cytometry analysis, we observe that the level of STUB1 was increased in RA patients compared with healthy controls. In particular, the expression of STUB1 protein was different in Th17 cells and Treg cells of RA patients. We also demonstrated that STUB1 facilitates Th17/Treg imbalance by up- or downregulating the expression of STUB1. In a subsequent series of in vitro experiments, we revealed that STUB1 promoted the imbalance of Th17 and Treg cells through non-degradative ubiquitination of AHR. Both knockdown of the AHR expression by siRNA and assays of CYP1A1 enzymatic activity by ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD) supported this conclusion. Furthermore, we explored the ubiquitination sites of AHR responsible for STUB1-mediated ubiquitination and revealed that STUB1 promotes ubiquitination of AHR via K63 chains. Together, STUB1 may induce the imbalance of Th17/Treg cells via ubiquitination of AHR and serve as a potential therapeutic target for RA.

Andrographolide inhibits IL-1ß release in bone marrow-derived macrophages and monocyte infiltration in mouse knee joints induced by monosodium urate.

Andrographolide (AND) is the major diterpenoid in A. paniculata with wide clinical application and has been shown to be a potent anti-inflammatory agent. Gout is the leading inflammatory disease of the joints, and the deposition of urate in the articular cavity attracts immune cells that release inflammatory cytokines. Monosodium urate (MSU) is known to be one of the activators of the NLRP3 (NLR family pyrin domain containing 3) inflammasome. After activation, the NLRP3 inflammasome releases interleukin-1ß (IL-1ß), which causes the development of many inflammatory diseases. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether AND attenuates the release of IL-1ß mediated by the NLRP3 inflammasome. The effects of AND were studied in bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and MSU and in mice with MSU-induced joint inflammation. AND suppressed MSU phagocytosis dose-dependently and markedly inhibited LPS- and MSU-induced IL-1ß release in BMDMs. Moreover, AND pretreatment inhibited the LPS-induced NLRP3 inflammasome priming stage by inhibiting the IKK/NFκB signaling pathway, which resulted in decreased protein expression of NLRP3 and proIL-1ß. AND induced HO-1 protein expression in a dose-dependent manner and attenuated MSU-induced ROS generation. Silencing HO-1 mitigated AND inhibition of LPS/MSU-induced IL-1ß release in J774A.1 cells. In addition, AND decreased MSU-mediated ASC binding to NLRP3. Oral administration of AND attenuated MSU-induced monocyte infiltration in mouse knee joints. These results suggest that the working mechanisms by which AND down-regulates MSU-induced joint inflammation might be via HO-1 induction and attenuation of ROS-mediated NLRP3 inflammasome assembly and subsequent IL-1ß release.

Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of glycolamide, glycinamide, and ß-amino carbonyl 1,2,4-triazole derivatives as DPP-4 inhibitors.

Through modification of the skeleton of Sitagliptin and Vildagliptin, we successfully synthesized and built-up four series of 1,2,4-triazole derivatives, containing N,O-disubstituted glycolamide, N,N'-disubstituted glycinamide, ß-amino ester, and ß-amino amide as linkers, for the development of new dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP-4) inhibitors. The synthetic strategy for glycolamides or glycinamides involved convenient two-steps reaction: functionalized transformation of 2-chloro-N-(2,4,5-triflurophenyl)acetamide 9 (hydroxylation or amination) and esterification or amidation of 1,2,4-triazole-3-carboxylic acid. On the other hand, the one-pot synthesis procedure, including substitution and deprotection, was developed for the preparation of ß-amino carbonyl 1,2,4-triazoles from (1H-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl)methanol 12 or (1H-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl)methanamine 13 and Boc-(R)-3-amino-4-(2,4,5-trifluoro-phenyl)-butyric acid 14. All of glycolamides, glycinamides, and ß-amino carbonyl 1,2,4-triazoles were also evaluated against DPP-4 inhibitory activity. Based on the SAR study of DPP-4 inhibitory capacity, ß-amino ester 5n and ß-amino amide 1,2,4-triazoles 6d and 6p possessed the significant inhibition of DPP-4 (IC50 < 51.0 nM), particularly for compound 6d (IC50 = 34.4 nM). The selectivity evaluation indicated compound 5n and 6p had excellent selectivity over QPP, DPP-8, and DPP-9. In addition, the docking results revealed compounds 5n and 6p provided stronger π-π stacking interaction with residue Phe357 than 1,5-disubstituted 1,2,4-triazole 6d and Sitagliptin 1. In summary, compounds 5n and 6p could be promising lead compounds for further development of DPP-4 inhibitor.

Chlorotrimethylsilane promoted one-flask heterocyclic synthesis of 1,2,4-triazoles from nitrilimines: Modeling studies and bioactivity evaluation of LH-21 and Rimonabant analogues.

An efficient one-flask cascade method for synthesis of the multi-substituted 1,2,4-triazoles via chlorotrimethylsilane as a promoter was developed. Firstly, nitrilimines were transformed to hydrazonamides as intermediate in high yield by treatment with commercially available hexamethyldisilazane. Subsequently, the mixture was added with corresponding acyl chloride and heated in the presence of pyridine to give the corresponding multi-substituted 1,2,4-triazoles via chlorotrimethylsilane promoted heterocyclization reaction. The utility of method was demonstrated to synthesize CB1 ligands including Rimonabant analogue 4c and LH-21 3 for modeling study. All synthesized compounds were subjected to the cAMP functional assay of CB1/CB2 receptor. Especially, compound 4g enhanced the reversal of cAMP reduction by CP59440 than LH-21 and Rimonabant analogue in CHO-hCB1 cells. In addition, the docking results showed compound 4g fits the best position with CB1 receptor. However, the ability to penetrate brain-blood barrier of compound 4g is similar with Rimonabant in MDCK-mdr1 permeability assay, which might cause CNS side effect. This study still provides the basis for further development of a potent and specific CB1 antagonist.

New methyl 5-(halomethyl)-1-aryl-1H-1,2,4-triazole-3-carboxylates as selective COX-2 inhibitors and anti-inflammatory agents: Design, synthesis, biological evaluation, and docking study.

A new method was developed for synthesis of 1,2,4-triazole-3-carboxylates 5a-p and 6 from nitrilimines 3a-p through amination and heterocyclization two-steps reactions. All of 1,2,4-triazole-3-carboxylates 5 and 6 were characterized by spectroscopy technique. Based on the SAR study of anti-inflammation activity, most of these compounds showed potential anti-inflammatory activity on NO inhibition in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 cells (IC50 < 7.0 µM) compared with Celecoxib and Indomethacin. Several potential compounds 5b-h, 5j, 5l, 5n, and 5o were subjected to in vitro cyclooxygenase COX-1/COX-2 inhibition assays. Compound 5d showed extraordinary COX-2 inhibition (IC50 = 17.9 nM) and the best selectivity (COX-1/COX-2 = 1080). Furthermore, 5 mg/kg compound 5d exhibited better in vivo anti-inflammation and gastric protection results compared to 10 mg/kg Indomethacin. Docking experiments of 5d into COX-2 binding pocket have been evaluated. Following the bioactivities experimental data, the potential drug candidate 5d, significantly exhibited better anti-inflammatory effect than Indomethacin.

Andrographolide inhibits hypoxia-induced hypoxia-inducible factor 1α and endothelin 1 expression through the heme oxygenase 1/CO/cGMP/MKP-5 pathways in EA.hy926 cells.

Andrographolide is a potent anti-inflammatory agent found in Andrographis paniculata. Endothelin 1 (ET-1) is an endothelium-derived vasoconstrictor with pro-inflammatory properties secreted in response to hypoxia. Mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphatase 5 (MKP-5) is a dual-specificity phosphatase that dephosphorylates threonine and tyrosine residues of MAPKs. We showed previously that hypoxia-induced HIF-1α expression and ET-1 secretion are dependent on p38 MAPK in EA.hy926 cells. Here, we investigate what role MKP-5 plays in andrographolide's inhibition of hypoxia-induced expression of HIF-1α and ET-1. Hypoxic conditions were created using the hypoxia-mimetic agent CoCl2 . Andrographolide enhanced HO-1 and MKP-5 expression and cellular cGMP content in addition to inhibiting hypoxia-induced ROS generation. Concomitantly, the HO-1 byproduct CO and the cGMP analogue 8-bromoguanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (8-Br-cGMP) increased MKP-5 expression, and pretreatment with CO and 8-Br-cGMP inhibited hypoxia-induced HIF-1α and ET-1 expression. Transfection of HO-1 siRNA or pretreatment with the HO-1 inhibitor ZnPP-9 or 1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one, a specific inhibitor of soluble guanylate cyclase, reduced andrographolide-induced MKP-5 expression. Moreover, silencing MKP-5 or treatment with the phosphatase inhibitor vanadate abrogated andrographolide's suppressing hypoxia-induced p38 MAPK activation and HIF-1α expression. The inhibition of hypoxia-induced HIF-1α and ET-1 expression by andrographolide is likely associated with HO-1/CO/cGMP/MKP-5 pathways, which is involved in inhibiting hypoxia-induced p38 MAPK activation.

Andrographolide inhibits hypoxia-induced HIF-1α-driven endothelin 1 secretion by activating Nrf2/HO-1 and promoting the expression of prolyl hydroxylases 2/3 in human endothelial cells.

Andrographolide, the main bioactive component of the medicinal plant Andrographis paniculata, has been shown to possess potent anti-inflammatory activity. Endothelin 1 (ET-1), a potent vasoconstrictor peptide produced by vascular endothelial cells, displays proinflammatory property. Hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α), the regulatory member of the transcription factor heterodimer HIF-1α/ß, is one of the most important molecules that responds to hypoxia. Changes in cellular HIF-1α protein level are the result of altered gene transcription and protein stability, with the latter being dependent on prolyl hydroxylases (PHDs). In this study, inhibition of pro-inflammatory ET-1 expression and changes of HIF-1α gene transcription and protein stability under hypoxia by andrographolide in EA.hy926 endothelial-like cells were investigated. Hypoxic conditions were created using the hypoxia-mimetic agent CoCl2. We found that hypoxia stimulated the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), the expression of HIF-1α mRNA and protein, and the expression and secretion of ET-1. These effects, however, were attenuated by co-exposure to andrographolide, bilirubin, and RuCO. Silencing Nrf2 and heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) reversed the inhibitory effects of andrographolide on hypxoia-induced HIF-1α mRNA and protein expression. Moreover, andrographolide increased the expression of prolyl hydroxylases (PHD) 2/3, which hydroxylate HIF-1α and promotes HIF-1α proteasome degradation, with an increase in HIF-1α hydroxylation was noted under hypoxia. Inhibition of p38 MAPK abrogated the hypoxia-induced increases in HIF-1α mRNA and protein expression as well as ET-1 mRNA expression and secretion. Taken together, these results suggest that andrographolide suppresses hypoxia-induced pro-inflammatory ET-1 expression by activating Nrf2/HO-1, inhibiting p38 MAPK signaling, and promoting PHD2/3 expression. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 32: 918-930, 2017.

Factors that determine self-reported immunosuppressant adherence in kidney transplant recipients: a correlational study.

AIMS: To determine the factors related to immunosuppressant therapy adherence in kidney transplant recipients in Taiwan. BACKGROUND: Adherence to immunosuppressant treatment is critical after kidney transplantation. Thus, the factors associated with self-reported medication adherence in kidney transplant recipients warrant investigation. DESIGN: The study used a cross-sectional and correlation design. METHODS: A convenience sample of 145 kidney transplant recipients was included. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data during 2012-2013. Multivariate linear regression was used to examine the factors related to immunosuppressant therapy adherence. RESULTS: Over half of the participants were female (54·5%), mean age was 45·5 years, and mean year after transplant was 7·4. The mean score for medication adherence was 29·73 (possible score range 7-35). The results of the multivariate linear regression analysis showed that gender (male), low income with a high school or college education, years after transplantation and concerns about medication taking were negatively associated with adherence. Medication self-efficacy was positively associated with adherence. Therapy-related factors, partnerships with healthcare professionals and having private healthcare insurance did not significantly relate to immunosuppressant therapy adherence. CONCLUSIONS: Kidney transplant recipients demonstrated a high level of adherence. Strategies to enhance patients' self-efficacy and alleviate concerns about medication may promote medication adherence. Male patients, those with a lower income and those with a higher education level, should be a focus of efforts to maintain adherence to the medication regimen.

Benzyl isothiocyanate inhibits TNFα-driven lipolysis via suppression of the ERK/PKA/HSL signaling pathway in 3T3-L1 adipocytes.

Tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), an inflammatory cytokine, induces lipolysis and increases circulating concentrations of free fatty acids. In addition, TNFα is the first adipokine produced by adipose tissue in obesity, contributing to obesity-associated metabolic disease. Given that benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC) is a well-known anti-inflammatory agent, we hypothesized that BITC can ameliorate TNFα-induced lipolysis and investigated the working mechanisms involved. We first challenged 3T3-L1 adipocytes with TNFα to induce lipolysis, which was confirmed by increased glycerol release, decreased protein expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) and perilipin 1 (PLIN1), and increased phosphorylation of ERK, protein kinase A (PKA), and hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL). However, inhibition of ERK or PKA significantly attenuated the lipolytic activity of TNFα. Meanwhile, pretreatment with BITC significantly ameliorated the lipolytic activity of TNFα; the TNFα-induced phosphorylation of ERK, PKA, and HSL; the TNFα-induced ubiquitination of PPARγ; the TNFα-induced decrease in PPARγ nuclear protein binding to PPAR response element; and the TNFα-induced decrease in PLIN1 protein expression. Our results indicate that BITC ameliorates TNFα-induced lipolysis by inhibiting the ERK/PKA/HSL signaling pathway, preventing PPARγ proteasomal degradation, and maintaining PLIN1 protein expression.

Astroglial morphological changes in periaqueductal grey in different pain and itch mice models.

BACKGROUND: The periaqueductal gray (PAG) plays a well-established pivotal role in the descending pain modulatory circuit. The objective of this study was to investigate morphological changes in the astroglia in models that are commonly used in pain and itch studies. METHODS: Five different mouse models of pain, as well as two models of chronic itch, were established using complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA), spared nerve injury (SNI), bone cancer pain (BCP), cisplatin (CIS), and paclitaxel (PTX) for pain, and diphenylcyclopropenone (DCP) and acetone and diethyl ether followed by water (AEW) for chronic itch. von Frey tests and video recordings were employed to assess pain and itching behaviors. The immunofluorescence of S100ß, pSTAT3, and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) was examined. Two- and three-dimensional studies were used to evaluate changes in astrocyte morphology. RESULTS: Significant scratching was caused by DCP and AEW, whereas the administration of CFA, SNI, BCP, CIS, and PTX produced clear mechanical allodynia. The expression of GFAP in the lPAG/vlPAG was upregulated in CFA, SNI, BCP, CIS, PTX, and DCP mice but decreased in AEW mice. According to Sholl analysis, CFA, SNI, PTX, and BCP mice showed substantially higher astrocyte intersections in the vlPAG, whereas CFA, SNI, BCP, CIS, and DCP mice presented longer peak lengths. In three-dimensional analysis, CFA, SNI, PTX, and DCP mice showed increased astrocyte surface areas, while CIS and AEW mice showed both reduced surface areas and/or volumes of astrocytes. CONCLUSION: The findings showed that different pain and itching conditions have different astrocyte morphologies, and these variations in morphological changes help to explain the pathophysiology of these conditions.

The Contribution of DNA Ligase 4 Polymorphisms to Colorectal Cancer.

BACKGROUND/AIM: While numerous biomarkers associated with genetic susceptibility to colorectal cancer (CRC) have been identified and validated through epidemiological studies, the specific influence of DNA ligase 4 (Lig4) genotypes remains unexplored. This study aimed to elucidate the hitherto unexamined relationship between Lig4 genotypes and CRC risk. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The genotypes of Lig4 rs1805388 were determined applying the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism methodology. The potential association between these genotypes and CRC risk was assessed in a Taiwanese population comprising 362 CRC cases and an equal number of age- and sex-matched controls. RESULTS: In the genotypic analysis, the distribution of CC, CT, and TT genotypes for Lig4 rs1805388 among CRC cases was 54.7%, 38.1%, and 7.2%, respectively. This distribution was not significantly different from the controls, which exhibited genotypic frequencies of 57.2%, 36.7%, and 6.1%, respectively (p for trend=0.7314). Analysis of allelic distribution indicated that individuals carrying the T allele of Lig4 rs1805388 displayed a slightly elevated CRC risk compared to those carrying the C allele (odds ratio=1.10, 95% confidence interval=0.87-1.39, p=0.4685). CONCLUSION: The variant genotypes of Lig4 rs1805388 may not serve as predictive markers for CRC risk in the Taiwanese population.

Contribution of Matrix Metalloproteinase-7 Genotypes to Endometriosis Risk in Taiwan.

BACKGROUND/AIM: The activity and expression of matrix metalloproteinase-7 (MMP7) have been found to be upregulated in the late stages of endometriosis. However, the contribution of MMP7 genotype to endometriosis has seldom been examined. This study aimed to investigate the role of MMP7 promoter A-181G (rs11568818) and C-153T (rs11568819) genotypes in determining personal susceptibility to endometriosis in a Taiwanese cohort. PATIENTS AND METHODS: In this hospital-based case-control study, MMP7 genotypes were analyzed in 153 endometriosis and 636 individuals without endometriosis using typical polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism methodology. RESULTS: The statistical analysis revealed that MMP7 rs11568818 genotypes were differentially distributed between the endometriosis and control groups (p for trend=0.0048). Specifically, the MMP7 rs11568818 homozygous variant GG was associated with endometriosis risk compared to the wild-type AA genotype (OR=4.59, 95% CI=1.46-14.48, p=0.0136). However, the MMP7 rs11568818 heterozygous variant AG was not associated with endometriosis risk (OR=1.57, 95% CI=0.97-2.53, p=0.0854). The frequency of than variant allele G of MMP7 rs11568818 was 12.7% in the endometriosis group, significantly higher than the 7.2% observed in the control group (OR=1.90, 95% CI=1.27-2.82, p=0.0021). CONCLUSION: MMP7 rs11568818 GG genotype was found to be a novel marker for endometriosis risk in Taiwanese.

Impact of Vitamin D Receptor Genotypes on Taiwan Hallux Valgus.

BACKGROUND/AIM: Hallux valgus (HV) is the most prevalent deformity affecting the forefoot; however, its genetic etiology remains unclear. In the literature, vitamin D receptor (VDR) genotypes have been reported to be associated with the risk of skeletal malformations accompanied by inflammation. This study aimed to examine the hypothesis that VDR genotypes are associated with the risk of HV. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The VDR rs731236, rs1544410, rs2228570 and rs7975232 genotypes of 150 HV patients and 600 non-HV subjects were determined using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) methodology and examined regarding their associations with HV risk. RESULTS: The results showed that none of the genetic frequency distributions of VDR rs731236, rs1544410, rs2228570, or rs7975232 were significant between the HV cases and non-HV controls (p for trend=0.4055, 0.2170, 0.7220, 0.5509, respectively). Additionally, allelic frequency analysis showed that none of the allelic frequencies of VDR rs731236, rs1544410, rs2228570, or rs7975232 were significantly distributed (p=0.2285, 0.1572, 0.9278, and 0.5547, respectively). Furthermore, stratified analysis showed that no correlation was observed between VDR rs731236 and different age groups (either younger or older than 51) or sex (p=0.3953 and p=0.9576). Moreover, no correlation was found between VDR rs731236 genotype and the risk of HV in individuals within subgroups of height, weight, or body mass index (BMI) (p=0.8317, 0.5346, and p=0.8783, respectively). CONCLUSION: VDR rs731236, rs1544410, rs2228570, and rs7975232 may not serve as indicators for a higher risk of HV.

Sanguinarine modulates microglial function via PPARγ activation and protects against CNS demyelination.

Microglia aggregate in regions of active inflammation and demyelination in the CNS of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients and are considered pivotal in the disease process. Targeting microglia is a promising therapeutic approach for myelin repair. Previously, we identified two candidates for microglial modulation and remyelination using a Connectivity Map (CMAP)-based screening strategy. Interestingly, with results that overlapped, sanguinarine (SAN) emerged as a potential drug candidate to modulate microglial polarization and promote remyelination. In the current study, we demonstrate the efficacy of SAN in mitigating the MS-like experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) in a dose-dependent manner. Meanwhile, prophylactic administration of a medium dose (2.5 mg/kg) significantly reduces disease incidence and ameliorates clinical signs in EAE mice. At the cellular level, SAN reduces the accumulation of microglia in the spinal cord. Morphological analyses and immunophenotyping reveal a less activated state of microglia following SAN administration, supported by decreased inflammatory cytokine production in the spinal cord. Mechanistically, SAN skews primary microglia towards an immunoregulatory state and mitigates proinflammatory response through PPARγ activation. This creates a favorable milieu for the differentiation of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) when OPCs are incubated with conditioned medium from SAN-treated microglia. We further extend our investigation into the cuprizone-induced demyelinating model, confirming that SAN treatment upregulates oligodendrocyte lineage genes and increases myelin content, further suggesting its pro-myelination effect. In conclusion, our data propose SAN as a promising candidate adding to the preclinical therapeutic arsenal for regulating microglial function and promoting myelin repair in CNS demyelinating diseases such as MS.

Associations of Matrix Metalloproteinase-8 Genotypes to Renal Cell Carcinoma in Taiwan.

BACKGROUND/AIM: Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) presents a formidable clinical challenge due to its aggressive behavior and limited therapeutic options. Matrix metalloproteinase-8 (MMP-8) has recently emerged as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for various cancers. However, the genetic involvement of MMP-8 in RCC has remained largely obscure. This study aimed to elucidate the role of MMP-8 genotypes in RCC susceptibility. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) technique was employed to scrutinize the genotypes of MMP-8 C-799T (rs11225395), Val436Ala (rs34009635), and Lys460Thr (rs35866072) among 118 RCC patients and 590 controls. Furthermore, potential associations between MMP-8 genotypes and age, sex, smoking, alcohol consumption, hypertension, diabetes, and family history status in relation to RCC risk were assessed. RESULTS: No significant disparities in the distribution of MMP-8 rs11225395, rs34009635, and rs35866072 genotypes were observed between the RCC case and control cohorts (p>0.05). Individuals with CT and TT genotypes at MMP-8 rs11225395 exhibited 0.86- and 0.80-fold RCC risks, respectively (OR=0.57-1.31 and 0.42-1.55, p=0.5585 and 0.6228, respectively). Intriguingly, hypertensive individuals carrying the MMP-8 rs11225395 CT or TT genotype demonstrated an elevated risk for RCC compared to those with wild-type CC genotype (p=0.0440). No interactions of MMP-8 genotypes with age, sex, smoking, alcohol consumption, or diabetes status were evident (all p>0.05). No significant association was discerned for MMP-8 rs34009635 or rs35866072 genotypes. CONCLUSION: MMP-8 genotypes appear to have a modest influence on individual susceptibility to RCC. Hypertensive patients with the CT or TT MMP-8 rs11225395 genotype may have an elevated risk of RCC.