Neurotrophic keratopathy is a persistent defect of the corneal epithelium,with or without stromal ulceration,due to corneal nerve deficiency caused by a variety of etiologies.The treatment options for neurotrophic ker...Neurotrophic keratopathy is a persistent defect of the corneal epithelium,with or without stromal ulceration,due to corneal nerve deficiency caused by a variety of etiologies.The treatment options for neurotrophic keratopathy are limited.In this study,an ophthalmic solution was constructed from a chitosan-based thermosensitive hydrogel with long-term release of murine nerve growth factor(CTH-mNGF).Its effectiveness was evaluated in corneal denervation(CD)mice and patients with neurotrophic keratopathy.In the preclinical setting,CTH-mNGF was assessed in a murine corneal denervation model.CTH-mNGF was transparent,thermosensitive,and ensured sustained release of mNGF for over 20 hours on the ocular surface,maintaining the local mNGF concentration around 1300 pg/mL in vivo.Corneal denervation mice treated with CTH-mNGF for 10 days showed a significant increase in corneal nerve area and total corneal nerve length compared with non-treated and CTH treated mice.A subsequent clinical trial of CTH-mNGF was conducted in patients with stage 2 or 3 neurotrophic keratopathy.Patients received topical CTH-mNGF twice daily for 8 weeks.Fluorescein sodium images,Schirmer’s test,intraocular pressure,Cochet-Bonnet corneal perception test,and best corrected visual acuity were evaluated.In total,six patients(total of seven eyes)diagnosed with neurotrophic keratopathy were enrolled.After 8 weeks of CTH-mNGF treatment,all participants showed a decreased area of corneal epithelial defect,as stained by fluorescence.Overall,six out of seven eyes had fluorescence staining scores<5.Moreover,best corrected visual acuity,intraocular pressure,Schirmer’s test and Cochet-Bonnet corneal perception test results showed no significant improvement.An increase in corneal nerve density was observed by in vivo confocal microscopy after 8 weeks of CTH-mNGF treatment in three out of seven eyes.This study demonstrates that CTH-mNGF is transparent,thermosensitive,and has sustained-release properties.Its effectiveness in healing corneal epithelial defects in all eyes with neurotrophic keratopathy suggests CTH-mNGF has promising application prospects in the treatment of neurotrophic keratopathy,being convenient and cost effective.展开更多
Traumatic brain injury is one of the main causes of mortality and disability worldwide.Traumatic brain injury is characterized by a primary injury directly induced by the impact,which progresses into a secondary injur...Traumatic brain injury is one of the main causes of mortality and disability worldwide.Traumatic brain injury is characterized by a primary injury directly induced by the impact,which progresses into a secondary injury that leads to cellular and metabolic damages,starting in the first few hours and days after primary mechanical injury.To date,traumatic brain injury is not targetable by therapies aimed at preventing and/or limiting the outcomes of secondary damage but only by palliative therapies.Nerve growth factor is a neurotrophin targeting neuronal and non-neuronal cells,potentially useful in preventing/limiting the outcomes of secondary damage in traumatic brain injury.This potential has further increased in the last two decades since the possibility of reaching neurotrophin targets in the brain through its intranasal delivery has been exploited.Indeed,molecules intranasally delivered to the brain parenchyma may easily bypass the blood-brain barrier and reach their therapeutic targets in the brain,with favorable kinetics,dynamics,and safety profile.In the first part of this review,we aimed to report the traumatic brain injury-induced dysfunctional mechanisms that may benefit from nerve growth factor treatment.In the second part,we then exposed the experimental evidence relating to the action of nerve growth factor(both in vitro and in vivo,after administration routes other than intranasal)on some of these mechanisms.In the last part of the work,we,therefore,discussed the few manuscripts that analyze the effects of treatment with nerve growth factor,intranasally delivered to the brain parenchyma,on the outcomes of traumatic brain injury.展开更多
AIM:To characterize changes of corneal nerve morphology and tear indices in patients with neurotrophic keratitis(NK)treated with recombinant human nerve growth factor(rhNGF).METHODS:In a prospective observational stud...AIM:To characterize changes of corneal nerve morphology and tear indices in patients with neurotrophic keratitis(NK)treated with recombinant human nerve growth factor(rhNGF).METHODS:In a prospective observational study,six patients(nine eyes)were locally treated with rhNGF.Visual acuity,corneal fluorescein staining score,the heights of the tear river,lipid layer thickness(LLT),tear ferning(TF)test,conjunctival impression cytology(CIC)examination,the densities of cornea subbasal nerve fibers were determined before and after treatment.RESULTS:Compared with baseline,there was a significant difference in corneal fluorescence staining scores(P<0.01);all patient corneal epithelial defects recovered completely within 8wk,but there was no significant improvement in the height of the tear river(P=0.202).LLT was significantly increased when compared with baseline(P=0.042);however,the function of conjunctival goblet cells and mucin content did not significantly improve using the TF test and CIC examination(P=0.557,P=0.539).After 8wk of treatment,the average corneal subbasal nerve fiber density increased significantly(P<0.01),as did the number of corneal nerve fiber branches(P=0.001).CONCLUSION:RhNGF can increase the density of corneal subbasal nerve fibers,promote the healing of persistent corneal epithelial defects and corneal ulcers in patients with NK,also improving tear function partially.展开更多
BACKGROUND: Nerve growth factor (NGF) attenuates glutamate-induced injury to hippocampal neurons, and the human tumor suppressor gene phosphatase and tensin homologue deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN) promotes neuronal ...BACKGROUND: Nerve growth factor (NGF) attenuates glutamate-induced injury to hippocampal neurons, and the human tumor suppressor gene phosphatase and tensin homologue deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN) promotes neuronal apoptosis. However, effects of PTEN in NGF-mediated neuroprotection against glutamate excitotoxicity remain poorly understood. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the relationship between NGF inhibition of glutamate-induced injury and PTEN. DESIGN, TIME AND SETTING: The randomized, controlled, in vitro study was performed at the Department of Pathophysiology, Medical School of Nantong University, China from October 2007 to March 2008. MATERIALS: Glutamate, NGF, 4, 6-diamidino-2-phenyl-indolediacetate, 3-[4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]- 2, 5-diphenyl tetrazoliumbromide (MTT), and lactate dehydrogenase kit (Sigma, USA), fluorescence microscope and inverted phase contrast microscope (Olympus, Japan) were used in this study. METHODS: Hippocampal neurons were obtained from newborn (< 24 hours) Sprague Dawley rats and cultured for 7 days. The control group was not treated with any intervention factor, the glutamate group was treated with glutamate (0.2 mmol/L), and NGF groups were treated with NGF (10, 50, 100, and 200 μg/L, respectively) prior to glutamate treatment. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The MTT and lactate dehydrogenase assays were applied to evaluate viability of hippocampal neurons. Morphological changes in hippocampal neurons were observed using an inverted phase-contrast microscope, and neuronal apoptosis was detected by 4, 6-diamidino-2-phenyl-indolediacetate staining. PTEN mRNA and protein expression were measured by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis, respectively. RESULTS: Glutamate (0.2 mmol/L) induced significantly decreased neuronal viability and greater lactate dehydrogenase efflux compared with the control group (P < 0.01). However, compared with the glutamate group, cell viability significantly increased and lactate dehydrogenase efflux decreased in the NGF group with increasing NGF concentrations (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). The apoptotic ratio and PTEN mRNA and protein expression decreased in the NGF group compared with the glutamate group (P < 0.01). CONCLUSION: Pretreatment with NGF exerted neuroprotective effects against glutamate-induced injury, partially through inhibition of PTEN expression and neuronal apoptosis.展开更多
Neurotrophins are a family of proteins that support neuronal proliferation, survival, and differentiation in the central and peripheral nervous systems, and are regulators of neuronal plasticity. Nerve growth factor i...Neurotrophins are a family of proteins that support neuronal proliferation, survival, and differentiation in the central and peripheral nervous systems, and are regulators of neuronal plasticity. Nerve growth factor is one of the best-described neurotrophins and has advanced to clinical trials for treatment of ocular and brain diseases due to its trophic and regenerative properties. Prior trials over the past few decades have produced conflicting results, which have principally been ascribed to adverse effects of systemic nerve growth factor administration, together with poor penetrance of the blood-brain barrier that impairs drug delivery. Contrastingly, recent studies have revealed that topical ocular and intranasal nerve growth factor administration are safe and effective, suggesting that topical nerve growth factor delivery is a potential alternative to both systemic and invasive intracerebral delivery. The therapeutic effects of local nerve growth factor delivery have been extensively investigated for different ophthalmic diseases, including neurotrophic keratitis, glaucoma, retinitis pigmentosa, and dry eye disease. Further, promising pharmacologic effects were reported in an optic glioma model, which indicated that topically administered nerve growth factor diffused far beyond where it was topically applied. These findings support the therapeutic potential of delivering topical nerve growth factor preparations intranasally for acquired and degenerative brain disorders. Preliminary clinical findings in both traumatic and non-traumatic acquired brain injuries are encouraging, especially in pediatric patients, and clinical trials are ongoing. The present review will focus on the therapeutic effects of both ocular and intranasal nerve growth factor delivery for diseases of the brain and eye.展开更多
Electroacupuncture(EA)has been shown to reduce blood lipid level and improve cerebral ischemia in rats with hyperlipemia complicated by cerebral ischemia.However,there are few studies on the results and mechanism of t...Electroacupuncture(EA)has been shown to reduce blood lipid level and improve cerebral ischemia in rats with hyperlipemia complicated by cerebral ischemia.However,there are few studies on the results and mechanism of the effect of EA in reducing blood lipid level or promoting neural repair after stroke in hyperlipidemic subjects.In this study,EA was applied to a rat model of hyperlipidemia and middle cerebral artery thrombosis and the condition of neurons and astrocytes after hippocampal injury was assessed.Except for the normal group,rats in other groups were fed a high-fat diet throughout the whole experiment.Hyperlipidemia models were established in rats fed a high-fat diet for 6 weeks.Middle cerebral artery thrombus models were induced by pasting 50%FeCl3 filter paper on the left middle cerebral artery for 20 minutes on day 50 as the model group.EA1 group rats received EA at bilateral ST40(Fenglong)for 7 days before the thrombosis.Rats in the EA1 and EA2 groups received EA at GV20(Baihui)and bilateral ST40 for 14 days after model establishment.Neuronal health was assessed by hematoxylin-eosin staining in the brain.Hyperlipidemia was assessed by biochemical methods that measured total cholesterol,triglyceride,low-density lipoprotein and high-density lipoprotein in blood sera.Behavioral analysis was used to confirm the establishment of the model.Immunohistochemical methods were used to detect the expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein and nerve growth factor in the hippocampal CA1 region.The results demonstrated that,compared with the model group,blood lipid levels significantly decreased,glial fibrillary acidic protein immunoreactivity was significantly weakened and nerve growth factor immunoreactivity was significantly enhanced in the EA1 and EA2 groups.The repair effect was superior in the EA1 group than in the EA2 group.These findings confirm that EA can reduce blood lipid,inhibit glial fibrillary acidic protein expression and promote nerve growth factor expression in the hippocampal CA1 region after hyperlipidemia and middle cerebral artery thrombosis.All experimental procedures and protocols were approved by the Animal Use and Management Committee of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine,China(approval No.BUCM-3-2018022802-1002)on April 12,2018.展开更多
BACKGROUND: Studies have shown that abnormal innervation is an important factor impacting occurrence and development of pathological pain in endometriosis. OBJECTIVE: To observe uterine innervation of adenomyosis mice...BACKGROUND: Studies have shown that abnormal innervation is an important factor impacting occurrence and development of pathological pain in endometriosis. OBJECTIVE: To observe uterine innervation of adenomyosis mice and to analyze the cause of innervation changes due to nerve growth factor (NGF) expression, inflammation, and vascularization. DESIGN, TIME AND SETTING: This randomized, controlled, animal experiment was performed at the Research Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, and Central Laboratory of Zhong- shan Hospital, Fudan University from March to December 2008. MATERIALS: Tamoxifen was provided by Fudan Forward, China. Rabbit anti-mouse NGF was purchased from Santa Cruz Corporation, USA; rabbit anti-protein gene product 9.5 (PGP9.5) and rabbit antisubstance P (SP) were purchased from Chemicon, USA. METHODS: A total of 40 newborn ICR mice were randomly assigned to adenomyosis model and control groups, with 20 animals in each group. Mice in the adenomyosis model group were orally administrated 2.7 μmol/kg tamoxifen on days 2-5 after birth, while the controls were not treated. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Both uteri from all mice were harvested at days 135-145 after birth. Expressions of polyclonal PGP9.5 and SP were immunohistochemically detected to demonstrate pan- and sensory nerve fibers. Microvessel density was quantified in the endometrium and myometrium using immunochemical staining for polyclonal rabbit anti-CD31, which stained vessels. Gene expression for NGF, high-affinity tyrosine kinase receptor (trkA), p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR), bradykinin receptor-1 (BKR-1), and 2 (BKR-2), as well as substance P receptor (neurokinin1 receptor, NK1-R), were detected by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. NGF-β protein expression was detected by Western blot analysis. RESULTS: More nerve fibers were stained with PGP9.5 in the endometrium and myometrium, and with SP in the endometrium, in adenomyosis mice compared with controls (P < 0.01 and P < 0.05). Microvessel density in the myometrium of adenomyosis mice was significantly greater than the controls (P < 0.01). In the uterus of adenomyosis mice, mRNA expression of NGF and its two receptors (trkA and p75 NTR), BKR-1, and NK1-R, as well as protein expression of NGF-β, were greater than the control mice (P < 0.01 or P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Uterine innervation in the adenomyosis mice was increased compared with the controls. Moreover, NGF expression, inflammation, and vascularization, which have been shown to be impact factors of innervation, were abnormal in the uteri of adenomyosis mice.展开更多
Although autogenous nerve transplantation is the gold standard for treating peripheral nerve defects of considerable length,it still has some shortcomings,such as insufficient donors and secondary injury.Composite chi...Although autogenous nerve transplantation is the gold standard for treating peripheral nerve defects of considerable length,it still has some shortcomings,such as insufficient donors and secondary injury.Composite chitosan scaffolds loaded with controlled release of nerve growth factor can promote neuronal survival and axonal regeneration after short-segment sciatic nerve defects.However,the effects on extended nerve defects remain poorly understood.In this study,we used chitosan scaffolds loaded with nerve growth factor for 8 weeks to repair long-segment(20 mm)sciatic nerve defects in adult rats.The results showed that treatment markedly promoted the recovery of motor and sensory functions.The regenerated sciatic nerve not only reconnected with neurons but neural circuits with the central nervous system were also reconstructed.In addition,the regenerated sciatic nerve reconnected the motor endplate with the target muscle.Therefore,this novel biomimetic scaffold can promote the regeneration of extended sciatic nerve defects and reconstruct functional circuits.This provides a promising method for the clinical treatment of extended peripheral nerve injury.This study was approved by the Animal Ethics Committee of Capital Medical University,China(approval No.AEEI-2017-033)on March 21,2017.展开更多
Stroke remains the leading cause of death and disability worldwide,which destroys the quality of patients’lives and thus is becoming a heavy burden to the society.However,the current therapeutic approaches are far fr...Stroke remains the leading cause of death and disability worldwide,which destroys the quality of patients’lives and thus is becoming a heavy burden to the society.However,the current therapeutic approaches are far from satisfaction.The objective of this study is to elucidate the impact of nerve growth factor(NGF)on the brain damage induced by cerebral ischemia and its potential molecular mechanism.Middle cerebral artery occlusion(MCAO)rats were used as animal models and neurological functions were evaluated by modified Neurological Severity Score(NSS).Brain cell apoptosis was analyzed by TUNEL-positive staining while brain infarct size was determined according to 2% 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride(TCC)staining volume.Rats receiving NGF demonstrated significantly alleviated brain damage,reflected by a substantial improvement in the neurobehavioral outcome,a decrease in brain cell apoptosis and shrinkage of brain infarct volume.Further analysis revealed a markedly elevated circulating vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF)and stromal cell-derived factor 1(SDF-1)levels as well as a significant downregulation of SA10012 expression in NGF treated group compared with the untreated group.Strikingly,the protective effect of NGF on cerebral ischemic injury was abolished in rats treated with both NGF and PI3K inhibitors,indicating that phosphoinositide-3-kinase(PI3K)signaling is essential for NGF function.In conclusion,NGF treatment might be a potential therapeutic approach against cerebral infarction by downregulating SA10012 expression and upregulating VEGF,SDF-1 in a PI3K signaling dependent manner.展开更多
AIM:To clarify the mechanism by which bone marrow cells promote angiogenesis around transplanted islets.METHODS: Streptozotocin induced diabetic BALB/ c mice were transplanted syngeneically under the kidney capsule wi...AIM:To clarify the mechanism by which bone marrow cells promote angiogenesis around transplanted islets.METHODS: Streptozotocin induced diabetic BALB/ c mice were transplanted syngeneically under the kidney capsule with the following: (1) 200 islets (islet group: n=12), (2) 1-5×106 bone marrow cells (bone marrow group: n=11), (3) 200 islets and 1-5×106 bone marrow cells (islet + bone marrow group: n= 13), or (4) no cells (sham group:n=5). All mice were evaluated for blood glucose, serum insulin, serum nervegrowth factor (NGF) and glucose tolerance (GTT) up to postoperative day (POD) 14. Histological assessment for insulin, von Willebrand factor (vWF) and NGF was performed at POD 3, 7 and 14.RESULTS: Blood glucose level was lowest and serum insulin was highest in the islet + bone marrow group. Serum NGF increased in islet, bone marrow, and islet + bone marrow groups after transplantation, and there was a significant difference (P=0.0496, ANOVA) between the bone marrow and sham groups. The number of vessels within the graft area was signif icantly increased in both the bone marrow and islet + bone marrow groups at POD 14 as compared to the islet alone group (21.2 ± 3.6 in bone marrow, P=0.01, vs islet group, 22.6 ± 1.9 in islet + bone marrow, P = 0.0003, vs islet group, 5.3 ± 1.6 in islet-alone transplants). NGF was more strongly expressed in bone marrow cells compared with islets. CONCLUSION: Bone marrow cells produce NGF and promote angiogenesis. Islet co-transplantation with bone marrow is associated with improvement of islet graft function.展开更多
BACKGROUND: Neuronal apoptosis in perihematomal brain tissues following intracerebral hemorrhage is strongly related to the formation of a compound signal pathway between nerve growth factor precursor (proNGF), p75NTR...BACKGROUND: Neuronal apoptosis in perihematomal brain tissues following intracerebral hemorrhage is strongly related to the formation of a compound signal pathway between nerve growth factor precursor (proNGF), p75NTR, and sortilin receptor. Sortilin acts as a co-receptor and molecular switch governing the p75NTR-mediated pro-apoptotic signal induced by proNGF. OBJECTIVE: To investigate proNGF and sortilin expressions in perihematomal brain tissues following intracerebral hemorrhage, and to study the effects of proNGF and sortilin on secondary cell apoptosis. DESIGN, TIME AND SETTING: A paired, comparison study was performed at the Laboratory of Histology and Embryology, Xi'an Jiaotong University from October 2007 to September 2008. MATERIALS: Brain tissue samples were obtained from 15 patients with intracerebral hemorrhage, who were treated at the Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Medical College of Xi'an Jiaotong University from October 2007 to March 2008. Rabbit anti-proNGF polyclonal antibody was provided by Chemicon, USA; rabbit antisortilin polyclonal antibody by Abcam, UK; and TUNEL kit by Promega, USA. METHODS: Perihematomal brain tissues selected 0.5 cm from the hemorrhage area were considered to be the hemorrhage group, while brain tissues from the middle temporal gyrus served as the control group. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Histopathological changes were detected using hematoxylin-eosin staining, cell apoptosis was determined using the TUNEL method, and proNGF and sortilin ex- pressions were determined using immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: Edema was clearly observed in perihematomal brain tissues, and infiltration of inflammatory cells was visible, with the presence of irregular and necrotic bodies. The apoptotic rate in the hemorrhage group was significantly greater than in the control group (P < 0.01). Moreover, sortilin expression significantly increased (P < 0.01), but proNGF expression remained unchanged (P > 0.05). Correlation analysis suggested that sortilin expression positively correlated with apoptosis (rs = 0.648, P < 0.01). CONCLUSION: proNGF expression was stable, but sortilin expression increased in perihematomal brain tissues following intracerebral hemorrhage, suggesting that sortilin acted as a co-receptor and molecular switch to govern p75NTR-mediated cell apoptosis.展开更多
A novel conductive drug-loading system was prepared by using an improved emulsion electrostatic spinning method which contained polylactic acid (PLA),graphene oxide (GO),and nerve growth factor (NGF) coated with bovin...A novel conductive drug-loading system was prepared by using an improved emulsion electrostatic spinning method which contained polylactic acid (PLA),graphene oxide (GO),and nerve growth factor (NGF) coated with bovine serum albumin (BSA) nanoparticles.Firstly,the structure,mechanical properties,morphology and electrical conductivity of PLA/GO electro spun fiber membranes with different GO ratios were characterized.PLA/GO scaffolds can exhibit superior porosity,hydrophilic and biomechanical properties when the GO incorporation rate is 0.5%.The addition of GO in the PLA/GO electro spun fiber membranes can also create appropriate pH environment for the repair of injured nerve when the GO incorporation rate is above 0.5%.Secondly,PLA/GO/BSA/Genipin/NGF particles (with a ratio of BSA/NGF=3:1) prepared by modified emulsion electro spinning method will release more NGF than PLA/GO/NGF particles.In addition,PLA/0.5%GO/NGF scaffold can maintain its structure stability for at least 8 weeks observed by scanning electron microscope (SEM).Moreover,the degradation of PLA/0.5%GO/NGF scaffold is consistent with its weight loss.Finally,in vitro assay confirmes that PLA/GO composite scaffold exhibits low cytotoxicity to RSC96 cells.Cellular results have demonstrated that PLA/0.5%GO/NGF sustained-release drug sustained-release system with appropriate electrical stimulation (ES) can promote PC12 cell proliferation,and it can maintain its differentiation capability for at least 3 weeks.In conclusion,PLA/0.5%GO/NGF sustained-release drug sustained-release system can maintain its biological activity for at least 3 weeks and promote cell proliferation with appropriate ES.展开更多
In peripheral artery disease patients,the blood supply directed to the lower limbs is reduced.This results in severe limb ischemia and thereby enhances pain sensitivity in lower limbs.The painful perception is induced...In peripheral artery disease patients,the blood supply directed to the lower limbs is reduced.This results in severe limb ischemia and thereby enhances pain sensitivity in lower limbs.The painful perception is induced and exaggerate during walking,and is relieved by rest.This symptom is termed by intermittent claudication.The limb ischemia also amplifies autonomic responses during exercise.In the process of pain and autonomic responses originating exercising muscle,a number of receptors in afferent nerves sense ischemic changes and send signals to the central nervous system leading to autonomic responses.This review integrates recent study results in terms of perspectives including how nerve growth factor affects muscle sensory nerve receptors in peripheral artery disease and thereby alters responses of sympathetic nerve activity and blood pressure to active muscle.For the sensory nerve receptors,we emphasize the role played by transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1,purinergic P2X purinoceptor 3 and acid sensing ion channel subtype 3 in amplified sympathetic nerve activity responses in peripheral artery disease.展开更多
BACKGROUND: Immediate early gene (IEG) c-jun is a sensitive marker for functional status of nerve cells. Caspase-3 is a cysteine protease, which is a critical regulator of apoptosis. The effect of exogenous nerve grow...BACKGROUND: Immediate early gene (IEG) c-jun is a sensitive marker for functional status of nerve cells. Caspase-3 is a cysteine protease, which is a critical regulator of apoptosis. The effect of exogenous nerve growth factor (NGF) on the expression of c-jun mRNA and Caspase-3 protein in striate cortex of rats with transient global cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (IR) is unclear. OBJECTIVE: To study the protective effect of exogenous NGF on the brain of rats with transient global cerebral IR and its effecting pathway by observing the expression of c-jun mRNA and Caspase-3 protein. DESIGN: Randomized controlled animal trial. SETTING: Department of Neural Anatomy, Institute of Brain, China Medical University.MATERIALS:Eighteen healthy male SD rats of clean grade, aged 1 to 3 months, with body mass of 250 to 300 g, were involved in this study. NGF was provided by Dalian Svate Pharmaceutical Co.,Ltd. c-jun in situ hybridization detection kit, Caspase-3 antibody and SABC kit were purchased from Boster Biotechnology Co.,Ltd.METHODS: This trial was carried out in the Department of Neural Anatomy, Institute of Brain, China Medical University during September 2003 to April 2005. ① Experimental animals were randomized into three groups with 6 in each: sham-operation group, IR group and NGF group.②After the rats were anesthetized, the bilateral common carotid arteries and right external carotid arteries of rats were bluntly dissected and bilateral common carotid arteries were clamped for 30 minutes with bulldog clamps. Reperfusion began after buldog clamps were removed. Normal saline of 1mL and NGF (1×106 U/L) of 1 mL was injected into the common carotid artery of rats via right external carotid arteries in the IR group and NGF group respectively. The injection was conducted within 30 minutes, and then the right external carotid arteries were ligated. In the sham-operation group, occlusion of bilateral common carotid arteries and administration of drugs were omitted.③All the rats were executed by decollation at 3 hours after modeling. The animals were fixed with phosphate buffer solution (PBS, 0.1 mol/L) containing 40 g/L polyformaldehyde, their brains were quickly removed. The coronal section tissue mass containing striate cortex about 3 mm before line between two ears was taken and made into successive frozen sections.④The expression of c-jun mRNA and Caspase-3 protein in striate cortex of global cerebral ischemia rats were detected with in situ hybridization, immunohistochemistry and microscope image analysis. ⑤t test was used for comparing the difference of the measurement data.MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:Comparison of the expression of IEG c-jun mRNA and Caspase-3 protein in striate cortex of brain of rats in each group.RESULTS:All the 18 SD rats were involved in the analysis of results. The c-jun mRNA and Caspase-3 protein positive reaction cells were found brown yellow in the striate cortex of rats, and most of them were in lamellas Ⅱ and Ⅲ, mainly presenting round or oval. The expression of c-jun mRNA and Caspase-3 protein in sham-operation group was weak or negative. The average gray value of c-jun mRNA and Caspase-3 protein in the IR group was significantly lower than that in the sham-operation group (49.52±4.13 vs. 95.48±5.28; 74.73±4.29 vs. 162.38±9.16,P < 0.01). The average gray value of c-jun mRNA and Caspase-3 protein in the NGF group was significantly higher than that in the IR group (63.96±4.25 vs.49.52±4.13; 83.98±4.13 vs. 74.73±4.29, P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: NGF can protect ischemic neurons by down-regulating the expression of c-jun mRNA and Caspase-3 protein in striate cortex of global cerebral ischemia rats.展开更多
Objective To investigate the distribution of nitric oxide synthase (NOS), nerve growth factor receptor (NGFR) and interstitial cells of Cajal (ICCs) in Hirschsprung's disease (HD). Methods The distribution of NOS,...Objective To investigate the distribution of nitric oxide synthase (NOS), nerve growth factor receptor (NGFR) and interstitial cells of Cajal (ICCs) in Hirschsprung's disease (HD). Methods The distribution of NOS, NGFR and ICCs was studied by using NADPH diaphorase histochemistry, immunohistochemistry with a monoclonal antibody to human NGFR and the specific polyclonal antibody against c-kit in 8 normal controls and 10 cases of HD. Results NOS and NGFR were abundantly present in the myenteric plexus and in the nerve fibers of musculature. ICCs were intensively distributed in the surface of circular musculature and around the myenteric plexus to form a network in normal control colon. In contrast, NOS and NGFR were scarce or absent in the myenteric plexus and in the nerve fibers of musculature, while the hypertrophic nerve trunks were NGFR positive, ICCs were scarcely distributed and the network was disrupted in the aganglionic colon in HD. Conclusion These findings suggest the involvement of NOS, NGFR and ICCs in the pathophysiology of HD.展开更多
Lead exposure is a known potential risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease(AD). Exposure to lead during the critical phase of brain development has been linked with mental retardatio...Lead exposure is a known potential risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease(AD). Exposure to lead during the critical phase of brain development has been linked with mental retardation and hypophrenia in later life. This study was aimed to investigate the effects of lead exposure of pregnant mice on the expressions of insulin-degrading enzyme(IDE) and nerve growth factor(NGF) in the hippocampus of their offspring. Blood samples were collected from the tail vein, and after anesthetizing the pups, the brain was excised on postnatal day 21. Lead concentrations were determined by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometry, and the expressions of IDE and NGF were determined by immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. Results showed that the reduction in IDE and NGF expression in the hippocampus of pups might be associated with impairment of learning and memory and dementia induced by maternal lead exposure during pregnancy and lactation.展开更多
BACKGROUND: Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and nerve growth actor (NGF) cam improve spatial learning and memory abilities of rats with cerebral ischemia/reperfusion; however, the effect of combination of them ...BACKGROUND: Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and nerve growth actor (NGF) cam improve spatial learning and memory abilities of rats with cerebral ischemia/reperfusion; however, the effect of combination of them on relieving learning and memory injury following cerebral ischemia/reperfusion should be further studied. OBJECTIVE: To study the effects of exogenous CGRP and NGF on learning and memory abilities of rats with focal cerebral ischemia/reperfusion. DESIGN: Randomized controlled animal study. SETTING: Department of Neurosurgery, the Second Hospital of Xiamen; Department of Neurosurgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University; Department of Neurobiology, Basic Medical College of China Medical University. MATERIALS: A total of 30 healthy male SD rats, aged 8 weeks, of clean grade, weighing 250-300 g, were provided by Experimental Animal Department of China Medical University. All rats were randomly divided into sham-operation group, ischemia/reperfusion group and treatment group with 10 in each group. The main reagents were detailed as the follows: 100 g/L chloral hydrate, 0.5 mL CGRP (2 mg/L, Sigma Company, USA), and NGF (1× 106 U/L, 0.5 mL, Siweite Company, Dalian). METHODS: The experiment was carried out in the Department of Neurobiology, Basic Medical College of China Medical University from February to July 2005. Rat models of middle cerebral artery occlusion were established by method of occlusion, 2 hours after that rats were anesthetized and the thread was slightly drawn out for 10 mm under direct staring to perform reperfusion. Rats in the ischemia/reperfusion group received intraperitoneal injection of 1 mL saline via the abdomen at two hours later, while rats in the treatment group at 2 hours later received intraperitoneal injection of 2 mg/L CGRP (0.5 mL) and 1×106 U/L NGF (0.5 mL) once a day for 10 successive days. First administration was accomplished within 15 minutes after ischemia/reperfusion. Rats in the sham-operation group were separated of the vessels without occlusion or administration. The neural function was evaluated with Zea Longa 5-grade scale. Animals with the score of one, two and three points received Morris water-maze test to measure searching time on platform (omitting platform-escaping latency). Meanwhile, leaning and memory abilities of animals were reflected through testing times of passing through platform per minute. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Experimental results of omitting platform-escaping latency and spatial probe. RESULTS: Three and two rats in the ischemia/reperfusion group and treatment group respectively were not in accordance with the criteria in the process, and the rest were involved in the final analysis. ① Comparisons of platform-escaping latency during Morris water-maze test in all the three groups: Ten days after modeling, the platform-escaping latency in the ischemia/reperfusion group was obviously longer than that in sham-operation group (P < 0.01), and was significantly shorter than that in the treatment group (P < 0.01). ② Comparisons of times of passing through platform in all the three groups: Times of passing through platform were remarkably less in the ischemia/reperfusion group than those in the sham-operation group [(1.79±0.39), (4.30±0.73) times/minute, P < 0.01], and those were markedly more in the treatment group than the ischemia/reperfusion group [(3.16±1.03), (1.79±0.39) times/minute, P < 0.01]. CONCLUSION: CGRP and NGF are capable of ameliorating the abilities of spatial learning and memory in MCAO rats, which indicates that CGRP and NGF can protect ischemic neurons.展开更多
Objective To investigate the protective mechanisms of nerve growth factor (NGF) on spinal cord injury.Methods The spinal cord injury (SCI) of Wistar rats was performed by a 10g×2.5cm impact on the posterior T 12 ...Objective To investigate the protective mechanisms of nerve growth factor (NGF) on spinal cord injury.Methods The spinal cord injury (SCI) of Wistar rats was performed by a 10g×2.5cm impact on the posterior T 12 spinal cord.The experimental animals received NGF liquid by subarachnoid space tube.The radioimmunological techniques were applied to examine the level of endothelin.Results The level of endothelin was significantly increased after the injury as compared with that in control group( P <0.01).The level of endothelin in NGF group as obviously lowered as compared with that in normal saline group 4 h after injury ( P <0.01).Conclusion NGF can protect spinal cord against injury in vivo .One of the mechanisms is that NGF could inhibit endothelin induced vicious circle.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:To explore the mechanism by which Qinghua decoction(清化饮)regulates neuroendocrine inflammation in chronic nonbacterial prostatitis(CNP)model rats and provide an experimental basis for clinical treatment.ME...OBJECTIVE:To explore the mechanism by which Qinghua decoction(清化饮)regulates neuroendocrine inflammation in chronic nonbacterial prostatitis(CNP)model rats and provide an experimental basis for clinical treatment.METHODS:The rats were randomly divided into six groups:normal control,model,Qianlie Tongyu capsule,low-dose Qinghua decoction,medium-dose Qinghua decoction,and high-dose Qinghua decoction group with six rats in each group.Rats in each group were sacrificed on the 29th day of treatment,and blood and prostate tissues were collected.Serum levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukins 1-beta,6,8,and 10(TNF-αand IL-1β,-6,-8,and-10,respectively)were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.The pathological changes in the rat prostate tissue in each group were observed under a light microscope.The expression levels of chromogranin A(CgA),nerve growth factor(NGF),and tyrosine kinase A(TrkA)were detected using reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction.Western blotting was used to detect protein expression of CgA,NGF,and TrkA.RESULTS:In the model group,the prostate capsule membrane and stroma were significantly dilated with more inflammatory cells infiltrating the stroma and perivessels.TNF-α,IL-1β,-6,and-8,CgA,NGF,and TrkA levels increased,whereas the content of IL-10 decreased,which was statistically significant compared to that in the normal control group(P<0.05).Prostate tissue cells in the high-dose group were neatly arranged with no obvious inflammatory cell infiltration.When compared with the model group,the high-dose Qinghua decoction group showed a significant improvement in these indices(P<0.05).CONCLUSION:Qinghua decoction led to inhibition of pathological changes in the prostate tissue of rats with CNP,regulation of inflammatory cytokine expression,and inhibition in the expression of CgA,NGF,and TrkA.This mechanism may be primarily related to regulation of the CgA/NGF/TrkA signaling pathway mediated by various inflammatory factors.展开更多
基金supported by PLA General Hospital Program,No.LB20201A010024(to LW).
文摘Neurotrophic keratopathy is a persistent defect of the corneal epithelium,with or without stromal ulceration,due to corneal nerve deficiency caused by a variety of etiologies.The treatment options for neurotrophic keratopathy are limited.In this study,an ophthalmic solution was constructed from a chitosan-based thermosensitive hydrogel with long-term release of murine nerve growth factor(CTH-mNGF).Its effectiveness was evaluated in corneal denervation(CD)mice and patients with neurotrophic keratopathy.In the preclinical setting,CTH-mNGF was assessed in a murine corneal denervation model.CTH-mNGF was transparent,thermosensitive,and ensured sustained release of mNGF for over 20 hours on the ocular surface,maintaining the local mNGF concentration around 1300 pg/mL in vivo.Corneal denervation mice treated with CTH-mNGF for 10 days showed a significant increase in corneal nerve area and total corneal nerve length compared with non-treated and CTH treated mice.A subsequent clinical trial of CTH-mNGF was conducted in patients with stage 2 or 3 neurotrophic keratopathy.Patients received topical CTH-mNGF twice daily for 8 weeks.Fluorescein sodium images,Schirmer’s test,intraocular pressure,Cochet-Bonnet corneal perception test,and best corrected visual acuity were evaluated.In total,six patients(total of seven eyes)diagnosed with neurotrophic keratopathy were enrolled.After 8 weeks of CTH-mNGF treatment,all participants showed a decreased area of corneal epithelial defect,as stained by fluorescence.Overall,six out of seven eyes had fluorescence staining scores<5.Moreover,best corrected visual acuity,intraocular pressure,Schirmer’s test and Cochet-Bonnet corneal perception test results showed no significant improvement.An increase in corneal nerve density was observed by in vivo confocal microscopy after 8 weeks of CTH-mNGF treatment in three out of seven eyes.This study demonstrates that CTH-mNGF is transparent,thermosensitive,and has sustained-release properties.Its effectiveness in healing corneal epithelial defects in all eyes with neurotrophic keratopathy suggests CTH-mNGF has promising application prospects in the treatment of neurotrophic keratopathy,being convenient and cost effective.
基金funded by the Italian Ministry of Health Grant:RF-2018-12366594“Nerve growth factor in paediatric severe traumatic brain injury:translational and clinical studies on a candidate biomarker and therapeutic drug”(to AC)。
文摘Traumatic brain injury is one of the main causes of mortality and disability worldwide.Traumatic brain injury is characterized by a primary injury directly induced by the impact,which progresses into a secondary injury that leads to cellular and metabolic damages,starting in the first few hours and days after primary mechanical injury.To date,traumatic brain injury is not targetable by therapies aimed at preventing and/or limiting the outcomes of secondary damage but only by palliative therapies.Nerve growth factor is a neurotrophin targeting neuronal and non-neuronal cells,potentially useful in preventing/limiting the outcomes of secondary damage in traumatic brain injury.This potential has further increased in the last two decades since the possibility of reaching neurotrophin targets in the brain through its intranasal delivery has been exploited.Indeed,molecules intranasally delivered to the brain parenchyma may easily bypass the blood-brain barrier and reach their therapeutic targets in the brain,with favorable kinetics,dynamics,and safety profile.In the first part of this review,we aimed to report the traumatic brain injury-induced dysfunctional mechanisms that may benefit from nerve growth factor treatment.In the second part,we then exposed the experimental evidence relating to the action of nerve growth factor(both in vitro and in vivo,after administration routes other than intranasal)on some of these mechanisms.In the last part of the work,we,therefore,discussed the few manuscripts that analyze the effects of treatment with nerve growth factor,intranasally delivered to the brain parenchyma,on the outcomes of traumatic brain injury.
基金Supported by the Shaanxi Provincial Department of Science and Technology(No.2021SF-331)。
文摘AIM:To characterize changes of corneal nerve morphology and tear indices in patients with neurotrophic keratitis(NK)treated with recombinant human nerve growth factor(rhNGF).METHODS:In a prospective observational study,six patients(nine eyes)were locally treated with rhNGF.Visual acuity,corneal fluorescein staining score,the heights of the tear river,lipid layer thickness(LLT),tear ferning(TF)test,conjunctival impression cytology(CIC)examination,the densities of cornea subbasal nerve fibers were determined before and after treatment.RESULTS:Compared with baseline,there was a significant difference in corneal fluorescence staining scores(P<0.01);all patient corneal epithelial defects recovered completely within 8wk,but there was no significant improvement in the height of the tear river(P=0.202).LLT was significantly increased when compared with baseline(P=0.042);however,the function of conjunctival goblet cells and mucin content did not significantly improve using the TF test and CIC examination(P=0.557,P=0.539).After 8wk of treatment,the average corneal subbasal nerve fiber density increased significantly(P<0.01),as did the number of corneal nerve fiber branches(P=0.001).CONCLUSION:RhNGF can increase the density of corneal subbasal nerve fibers,promote the healing of persistent corneal epithelial defects and corneal ulcers in patients with NK,also improving tear function partially.
基金the Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province, No. BK2004048the Social Development and Technology Plan of Nantong City, No. K2008009
文摘BACKGROUND: Nerve growth factor (NGF) attenuates glutamate-induced injury to hippocampal neurons, and the human tumor suppressor gene phosphatase and tensin homologue deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN) promotes neuronal apoptosis. However, effects of PTEN in NGF-mediated neuroprotection against glutamate excitotoxicity remain poorly understood. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the relationship between NGF inhibition of glutamate-induced injury and PTEN. DESIGN, TIME AND SETTING: The randomized, controlled, in vitro study was performed at the Department of Pathophysiology, Medical School of Nantong University, China from October 2007 to March 2008. MATERIALS: Glutamate, NGF, 4, 6-diamidino-2-phenyl-indolediacetate, 3-[4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]- 2, 5-diphenyl tetrazoliumbromide (MTT), and lactate dehydrogenase kit (Sigma, USA), fluorescence microscope and inverted phase contrast microscope (Olympus, Japan) were used in this study. METHODS: Hippocampal neurons were obtained from newborn (< 24 hours) Sprague Dawley rats and cultured for 7 days. The control group was not treated with any intervention factor, the glutamate group was treated with glutamate (0.2 mmol/L), and NGF groups were treated with NGF (10, 50, 100, and 200 μg/L, respectively) prior to glutamate treatment. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The MTT and lactate dehydrogenase assays were applied to evaluate viability of hippocampal neurons. Morphological changes in hippocampal neurons were observed using an inverted phase-contrast microscope, and neuronal apoptosis was detected by 4, 6-diamidino-2-phenyl-indolediacetate staining. PTEN mRNA and protein expression were measured by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis, respectively. RESULTS: Glutamate (0.2 mmol/L) induced significantly decreased neuronal viability and greater lactate dehydrogenase efflux compared with the control group (P < 0.01). However, compared with the glutamate group, cell viability significantly increased and lactate dehydrogenase efflux decreased in the NGF group with increasing NGF concentrations (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). The apoptotic ratio and PTEN mRNA and protein expression decreased in the NGF group compared with the glutamate group (P < 0.01). CONCLUSION: Pretreatment with NGF exerted neuroprotective effects against glutamate-induced injury, partially through inhibition of PTEN expression and neuronal apoptosis.
文摘Neurotrophins are a family of proteins that support neuronal proliferation, survival, and differentiation in the central and peripheral nervous systems, and are regulators of neuronal plasticity. Nerve growth factor is one of the best-described neurotrophins and has advanced to clinical trials for treatment of ocular and brain diseases due to its trophic and regenerative properties. Prior trials over the past few decades have produced conflicting results, which have principally been ascribed to adverse effects of systemic nerve growth factor administration, together with poor penetrance of the blood-brain barrier that impairs drug delivery. Contrastingly, recent studies have revealed that topical ocular and intranasal nerve growth factor administration are safe and effective, suggesting that topical nerve growth factor delivery is a potential alternative to both systemic and invasive intracerebral delivery. The therapeutic effects of local nerve growth factor delivery have been extensively investigated for different ophthalmic diseases, including neurotrophic keratitis, glaucoma, retinitis pigmentosa, and dry eye disease. Further, promising pharmacologic effects were reported in an optic glioma model, which indicated that topically administered nerve growth factor diffused far beyond where it was topically applied. These findings support the therapeutic potential of delivering topical nerve growth factor preparations intranasally for acquired and degenerative brain disorders. Preliminary clinical findings in both traumatic and non-traumatic acquired brain injuries are encouraging, especially in pediatric patients, and clinical trials are ongoing. The present review will focus on the therapeutic effects of both ocular and intranasal nerve growth factor delivery for diseases of the brain and eye.
基金This study was funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81470200(to XJR).
文摘Electroacupuncture(EA)has been shown to reduce blood lipid level and improve cerebral ischemia in rats with hyperlipemia complicated by cerebral ischemia.However,there are few studies on the results and mechanism of the effect of EA in reducing blood lipid level or promoting neural repair after stroke in hyperlipidemic subjects.In this study,EA was applied to a rat model of hyperlipidemia and middle cerebral artery thrombosis and the condition of neurons and astrocytes after hippocampal injury was assessed.Except for the normal group,rats in other groups were fed a high-fat diet throughout the whole experiment.Hyperlipidemia models were established in rats fed a high-fat diet for 6 weeks.Middle cerebral artery thrombus models were induced by pasting 50%FeCl3 filter paper on the left middle cerebral artery for 20 minutes on day 50 as the model group.EA1 group rats received EA at bilateral ST40(Fenglong)for 7 days before the thrombosis.Rats in the EA1 and EA2 groups received EA at GV20(Baihui)and bilateral ST40 for 14 days after model establishment.Neuronal health was assessed by hematoxylin-eosin staining in the brain.Hyperlipidemia was assessed by biochemical methods that measured total cholesterol,triglyceride,low-density lipoprotein and high-density lipoprotein in blood sera.Behavioral analysis was used to confirm the establishment of the model.Immunohistochemical methods were used to detect the expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein and nerve growth factor in the hippocampal CA1 region.The results demonstrated that,compared with the model group,blood lipid levels significantly decreased,glial fibrillary acidic protein immunoreactivity was significantly weakened and nerve growth factor immunoreactivity was significantly enhanced in the EA1 and EA2 groups.The repair effect was superior in the EA1 group than in the EA2 group.These findings confirm that EA can reduce blood lipid,inhibit glial fibrillary acidic protein expression and promote nerve growth factor expression in the hippocampal CA1 region after hyperlipidemia and middle cerebral artery thrombosis.All experimental procedures and protocols were approved by the Animal Use and Management Committee of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine,China(approval No.BUCM-3-2018022802-1002)on April 12,2018.
基金the Construction Program of Shanghai Medical Intensive Subject (Obstetrics and Gynaecology), No. 05-111-0165
文摘BACKGROUND: Studies have shown that abnormal innervation is an important factor impacting occurrence and development of pathological pain in endometriosis. OBJECTIVE: To observe uterine innervation of adenomyosis mice and to analyze the cause of innervation changes due to nerve growth factor (NGF) expression, inflammation, and vascularization. DESIGN, TIME AND SETTING: This randomized, controlled, animal experiment was performed at the Research Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, and Central Laboratory of Zhong- shan Hospital, Fudan University from March to December 2008. MATERIALS: Tamoxifen was provided by Fudan Forward, China. Rabbit anti-mouse NGF was purchased from Santa Cruz Corporation, USA; rabbit anti-protein gene product 9.5 (PGP9.5) and rabbit antisubstance P (SP) were purchased from Chemicon, USA. METHODS: A total of 40 newborn ICR mice were randomly assigned to adenomyosis model and control groups, with 20 animals in each group. Mice in the adenomyosis model group were orally administrated 2.7 μmol/kg tamoxifen on days 2-5 after birth, while the controls were not treated. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Both uteri from all mice were harvested at days 135-145 after birth. Expressions of polyclonal PGP9.5 and SP were immunohistochemically detected to demonstrate pan- and sensory nerve fibers. Microvessel density was quantified in the endometrium and myometrium using immunochemical staining for polyclonal rabbit anti-CD31, which stained vessels. Gene expression for NGF, high-affinity tyrosine kinase receptor (trkA), p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR), bradykinin receptor-1 (BKR-1), and 2 (BKR-2), as well as substance P receptor (neurokinin1 receptor, NK1-R), were detected by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. NGF-β protein expression was detected by Western blot analysis. RESULTS: More nerve fibers were stained with PGP9.5 in the endometrium and myometrium, and with SP in the endometrium, in adenomyosis mice compared with controls (P < 0.01 and P < 0.05). Microvessel density in the myometrium of adenomyosis mice was significantly greater than the controls (P < 0.01). In the uterus of adenomyosis mice, mRNA expression of NGF and its two receptors (trkA and p75 NTR), BKR-1, and NK1-R, as well as protein expression of NGF-β, were greater than the control mice (P < 0.01 or P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Uterine innervation in the adenomyosis mice was increased compared with the controls. Moreover, NGF expression, inflammation, and vascularization, which have been shown to be impact factors of innervation, were abnormal in the uteri of adenomyosis mice.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.31900749(to PH),31730030(to XGL),81941011(to XGL),31971279(to ZYY),31771053(to HMD)the Natural Science Foundation of Beijing of China,No.7214301(to FH)。
文摘Although autogenous nerve transplantation is the gold standard for treating peripheral nerve defects of considerable length,it still has some shortcomings,such as insufficient donors and secondary injury.Composite chitosan scaffolds loaded with controlled release of nerve growth factor can promote neuronal survival and axonal regeneration after short-segment sciatic nerve defects.However,the effects on extended nerve defects remain poorly understood.In this study,we used chitosan scaffolds loaded with nerve growth factor for 8 weeks to repair long-segment(20 mm)sciatic nerve defects in adult rats.The results showed that treatment markedly promoted the recovery of motor and sensory functions.The regenerated sciatic nerve not only reconnected with neurons but neural circuits with the central nervous system were also reconstructed.In addition,the regenerated sciatic nerve reconnected the motor endplate with the target muscle.Therefore,this novel biomimetic scaffold can promote the regeneration of extended sciatic nerve defects and reconstruct functional circuits.This provides a promising method for the clinical treatment of extended peripheral nerve injury.This study was approved by the Animal Ethics Committee of Capital Medical University,China(approval No.AEEI-2017-033)on March 21,2017.
文摘Stroke remains the leading cause of death and disability worldwide,which destroys the quality of patients’lives and thus is becoming a heavy burden to the society.However,the current therapeutic approaches are far from satisfaction.The objective of this study is to elucidate the impact of nerve growth factor(NGF)on the brain damage induced by cerebral ischemia and its potential molecular mechanism.Middle cerebral artery occlusion(MCAO)rats were used as animal models and neurological functions were evaluated by modified Neurological Severity Score(NSS).Brain cell apoptosis was analyzed by TUNEL-positive staining while brain infarct size was determined according to 2% 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride(TCC)staining volume.Rats receiving NGF demonstrated significantly alleviated brain damage,reflected by a substantial improvement in the neurobehavioral outcome,a decrease in brain cell apoptosis and shrinkage of brain infarct volume.Further analysis revealed a markedly elevated circulating vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF)and stromal cell-derived factor 1(SDF-1)levels as well as a significant downregulation of SA10012 expression in NGF treated group compared with the untreated group.Strikingly,the protective effect of NGF on cerebral ischemic injury was abolished in rats treated with both NGF and PI3K inhibitors,indicating that phosphoinositide-3-kinase(PI3K)signaling is essential for NGF function.In conclusion,NGF treatment might be a potential therapeutic approach against cerebral infarction by downregulating SA10012 expression and upregulating VEGF,SDF-1 in a PI3K signaling dependent manner.
基金Supported by National Institutes of Health/National Instituteof Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIH/NIDDK)Grant # 1R01-DK077541 (to Hathout E)a grant from the National Medical Test Bed (to Hathout E)
文摘AIM:To clarify the mechanism by which bone marrow cells promote angiogenesis around transplanted islets.METHODS: Streptozotocin induced diabetic BALB/ c mice were transplanted syngeneically under the kidney capsule with the following: (1) 200 islets (islet group: n=12), (2) 1-5×106 bone marrow cells (bone marrow group: n=11), (3) 200 islets and 1-5×106 bone marrow cells (islet + bone marrow group: n= 13), or (4) no cells (sham group:n=5). All mice were evaluated for blood glucose, serum insulin, serum nervegrowth factor (NGF) and glucose tolerance (GTT) up to postoperative day (POD) 14. Histological assessment for insulin, von Willebrand factor (vWF) and NGF was performed at POD 3, 7 and 14.RESULTS: Blood glucose level was lowest and serum insulin was highest in the islet + bone marrow group. Serum NGF increased in islet, bone marrow, and islet + bone marrow groups after transplantation, and there was a significant difference (P=0.0496, ANOVA) between the bone marrow and sham groups. The number of vessels within the graft area was signif icantly increased in both the bone marrow and islet + bone marrow groups at POD 14 as compared to the islet alone group (21.2 ± 3.6 in bone marrow, P=0.01, vs islet group, 22.6 ± 1.9 in islet + bone marrow, P = 0.0003, vs islet group, 5.3 ± 1.6 in islet-alone transplants). NGF was more strongly expressed in bone marrow cells compared with islets. CONCLUSION: Bone marrow cells produce NGF and promote angiogenesis. Islet co-transplantation with bone marrow is associated with improvement of islet graft function.
基金Scientific and Technological Research Developing Program of Shaanxi Province, No. 2007K15-01
文摘BACKGROUND: Neuronal apoptosis in perihematomal brain tissues following intracerebral hemorrhage is strongly related to the formation of a compound signal pathway between nerve growth factor precursor (proNGF), p75NTR, and sortilin receptor. Sortilin acts as a co-receptor and molecular switch governing the p75NTR-mediated pro-apoptotic signal induced by proNGF. OBJECTIVE: To investigate proNGF and sortilin expressions in perihematomal brain tissues following intracerebral hemorrhage, and to study the effects of proNGF and sortilin on secondary cell apoptosis. DESIGN, TIME AND SETTING: A paired, comparison study was performed at the Laboratory of Histology and Embryology, Xi'an Jiaotong University from October 2007 to September 2008. MATERIALS: Brain tissue samples were obtained from 15 patients with intracerebral hemorrhage, who were treated at the Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Medical College of Xi'an Jiaotong University from October 2007 to March 2008. Rabbit anti-proNGF polyclonal antibody was provided by Chemicon, USA; rabbit antisortilin polyclonal antibody by Abcam, UK; and TUNEL kit by Promega, USA. METHODS: Perihematomal brain tissues selected 0.5 cm from the hemorrhage area were considered to be the hemorrhage group, while brain tissues from the middle temporal gyrus served as the control group. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Histopathological changes were detected using hematoxylin-eosin staining, cell apoptosis was determined using the TUNEL method, and proNGF and sortilin ex- pressions were determined using immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: Edema was clearly observed in perihematomal brain tissues, and infiltration of inflammatory cells was visible, with the presence of irregular and necrotic bodies. The apoptotic rate in the hemorrhage group was significantly greater than in the control group (P < 0.01). Moreover, sortilin expression significantly increased (P < 0.01), but proNGF expression remained unchanged (P > 0.05). Correlation analysis suggested that sortilin expression positively correlated with apoptosis (rs = 0.648, P < 0.01). CONCLUSION: proNGF expression was stable, but sortilin expression increased in perihematomal brain tissues following intracerebral hemorrhage, suggesting that sortilin acted as a co-receptor and molecular switch to govern p75NTR-mediated cell apoptosis.
基金Funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.51572206)the Wuhan Huanghe Excellence Plan+1 种基金Natural Science Foundation of Hubei(2018CFB487)the National Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Program for College Students(Nos.202010497028,202010497030,and 202010497062)。
文摘A novel conductive drug-loading system was prepared by using an improved emulsion electrostatic spinning method which contained polylactic acid (PLA),graphene oxide (GO),and nerve growth factor (NGF) coated with bovine serum albumin (BSA) nanoparticles.Firstly,the structure,mechanical properties,morphology and electrical conductivity of PLA/GO electro spun fiber membranes with different GO ratios were characterized.PLA/GO scaffolds can exhibit superior porosity,hydrophilic and biomechanical properties when the GO incorporation rate is 0.5%.The addition of GO in the PLA/GO electro spun fiber membranes can also create appropriate pH environment for the repair of injured nerve when the GO incorporation rate is above 0.5%.Secondly,PLA/GO/BSA/Genipin/NGF particles (with a ratio of BSA/NGF=3:1) prepared by modified emulsion electro spinning method will release more NGF than PLA/GO/NGF particles.In addition,PLA/0.5%GO/NGF scaffold can maintain its structure stability for at least 8 weeks observed by scanning electron microscope (SEM).Moreover,the degradation of PLA/0.5%GO/NGF scaffold is consistent with its weight loss.Finally,in vitro assay confirmes that PLA/GO composite scaffold exhibits low cytotoxicity to RSC96 cells.Cellular results have demonstrated that PLA/0.5%GO/NGF sustained-release drug sustained-release system with appropriate electrical stimulation (ES) can promote PC12 cell proliferation,and it can maintain its differentiation capability for at least 3 weeks.In conclusion,PLA/0.5%GO/NGF sustained-release drug sustained-release system can maintain its biological activity for at least 3 weeks and promote cell proliferation with appropriate ES.
基金This work was supported by the National Institutes of Health,No.NIH P01 HL134609 and R01 HL141198(to JL).
文摘In peripheral artery disease patients,the blood supply directed to the lower limbs is reduced.This results in severe limb ischemia and thereby enhances pain sensitivity in lower limbs.The painful perception is induced and exaggerate during walking,and is relieved by rest.This symptom is termed by intermittent claudication.The limb ischemia also amplifies autonomic responses during exercise.In the process of pain and autonomic responses originating exercising muscle,a number of receptors in afferent nerves sense ischemic changes and send signals to the central nervous system leading to autonomic responses.This review integrates recent study results in terms of perspectives including how nerve growth factor affects muscle sensory nerve receptors in peripheral artery disease and thereby alters responses of sympathetic nerve activity and blood pressure to active muscle.For the sensory nerve receptors,we emphasize the role played by transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1,purinergic P2X purinoceptor 3 and acid sensing ion channel subtype 3 in amplified sympathetic nerve activity responses in peripheral artery disease.
基金the Natural Science Foundation of LiaoningProvince, No. 619019
文摘BACKGROUND: Immediate early gene (IEG) c-jun is a sensitive marker for functional status of nerve cells. Caspase-3 is a cysteine protease, which is a critical regulator of apoptosis. The effect of exogenous nerve growth factor (NGF) on the expression of c-jun mRNA and Caspase-3 protein in striate cortex of rats with transient global cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (IR) is unclear. OBJECTIVE: To study the protective effect of exogenous NGF on the brain of rats with transient global cerebral IR and its effecting pathway by observing the expression of c-jun mRNA and Caspase-3 protein. DESIGN: Randomized controlled animal trial. SETTING: Department of Neural Anatomy, Institute of Brain, China Medical University.MATERIALS:Eighteen healthy male SD rats of clean grade, aged 1 to 3 months, with body mass of 250 to 300 g, were involved in this study. NGF was provided by Dalian Svate Pharmaceutical Co.,Ltd. c-jun in situ hybridization detection kit, Caspase-3 antibody and SABC kit were purchased from Boster Biotechnology Co.,Ltd.METHODS: This trial was carried out in the Department of Neural Anatomy, Institute of Brain, China Medical University during September 2003 to April 2005. ① Experimental animals were randomized into three groups with 6 in each: sham-operation group, IR group and NGF group.②After the rats were anesthetized, the bilateral common carotid arteries and right external carotid arteries of rats were bluntly dissected and bilateral common carotid arteries were clamped for 30 minutes with bulldog clamps. Reperfusion began after buldog clamps were removed. Normal saline of 1mL and NGF (1×106 U/L) of 1 mL was injected into the common carotid artery of rats via right external carotid arteries in the IR group and NGF group respectively. The injection was conducted within 30 minutes, and then the right external carotid arteries were ligated. In the sham-operation group, occlusion of bilateral common carotid arteries and administration of drugs were omitted.③All the rats were executed by decollation at 3 hours after modeling. The animals were fixed with phosphate buffer solution (PBS, 0.1 mol/L) containing 40 g/L polyformaldehyde, their brains were quickly removed. The coronal section tissue mass containing striate cortex about 3 mm before line between two ears was taken and made into successive frozen sections.④The expression of c-jun mRNA and Caspase-3 protein in striate cortex of global cerebral ischemia rats were detected with in situ hybridization, immunohistochemistry and microscope image analysis. ⑤t test was used for comparing the difference of the measurement data.MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:Comparison of the expression of IEG c-jun mRNA and Caspase-3 protein in striate cortex of brain of rats in each group.RESULTS:All the 18 SD rats were involved in the analysis of results. The c-jun mRNA and Caspase-3 protein positive reaction cells were found brown yellow in the striate cortex of rats, and most of them were in lamellas Ⅱ and Ⅲ, mainly presenting round or oval. The expression of c-jun mRNA and Caspase-3 protein in sham-operation group was weak or negative. The average gray value of c-jun mRNA and Caspase-3 protein in the IR group was significantly lower than that in the sham-operation group (49.52±4.13 vs. 95.48±5.28; 74.73±4.29 vs. 162.38±9.16,P < 0.01). The average gray value of c-jun mRNA and Caspase-3 protein in the NGF group was significantly higher than that in the IR group (63.96±4.25 vs.49.52±4.13; 83.98±4.13 vs. 74.73±4.29, P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: NGF can protect ischemic neurons by down-regulating the expression of c-jun mRNA and Caspase-3 protein in striate cortex of global cerebral ischemia rats.
文摘Objective To investigate the distribution of nitric oxide synthase (NOS), nerve growth factor receptor (NGFR) and interstitial cells of Cajal (ICCs) in Hirschsprung's disease (HD). Methods The distribution of NOS, NGFR and ICCs was studied by using NADPH diaphorase histochemistry, immunohistochemistry with a monoclonal antibody to human NGFR and the specific polyclonal antibody against c-kit in 8 normal controls and 10 cases of HD. Results NOS and NGFR were abundantly present in the myenteric plexus and in the nerve fibers of musculature. ICCs were intensively distributed in the surface of circular musculature and around the myenteric plexus to form a network in normal control colon. In contrast, NOS and NGFR were scarce or absent in the myenteric plexus and in the nerve fibers of musculature, while the hypertrophic nerve trunks were NGFR positive, ICCs were scarcely distributed and the network was disrupted in the aganglionic colon in HD. Conclusion These findings suggest the involvement of NOS, NGFR and ICCs in the pathophysiology of HD.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC),No.31201878,81172716,and U1204804Post Doctoral Foundation of China,No.2015M572109Post Doctoral Fund of Henan province,No.2014049
文摘Lead exposure is a known potential risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease(AD). Exposure to lead during the critical phase of brain development has been linked with mental retardation and hypophrenia in later life. This study was aimed to investigate the effects of lead exposure of pregnant mice on the expressions of insulin-degrading enzyme(IDE) and nerve growth factor(NGF) in the hippocampus of their offspring. Blood samples were collected from the tail vein, and after anesthetizing the pups, the brain was excised on postnatal day 21. Lead concentrations were determined by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometry, and the expressions of IDE and NGF were determined by immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. Results showed that the reduction in IDE and NGF expression in the hippocampus of pups might be associated with impairment of learning and memory and dementia induced by maternal lead exposure during pregnancy and lactation.
文摘BACKGROUND: Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and nerve growth actor (NGF) cam improve spatial learning and memory abilities of rats with cerebral ischemia/reperfusion; however, the effect of combination of them on relieving learning and memory injury following cerebral ischemia/reperfusion should be further studied. OBJECTIVE: To study the effects of exogenous CGRP and NGF on learning and memory abilities of rats with focal cerebral ischemia/reperfusion. DESIGN: Randomized controlled animal study. SETTING: Department of Neurosurgery, the Second Hospital of Xiamen; Department of Neurosurgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University; Department of Neurobiology, Basic Medical College of China Medical University. MATERIALS: A total of 30 healthy male SD rats, aged 8 weeks, of clean grade, weighing 250-300 g, were provided by Experimental Animal Department of China Medical University. All rats were randomly divided into sham-operation group, ischemia/reperfusion group and treatment group with 10 in each group. The main reagents were detailed as the follows: 100 g/L chloral hydrate, 0.5 mL CGRP (2 mg/L, Sigma Company, USA), and NGF (1× 106 U/L, 0.5 mL, Siweite Company, Dalian). METHODS: The experiment was carried out in the Department of Neurobiology, Basic Medical College of China Medical University from February to July 2005. Rat models of middle cerebral artery occlusion were established by method of occlusion, 2 hours after that rats were anesthetized and the thread was slightly drawn out for 10 mm under direct staring to perform reperfusion. Rats in the ischemia/reperfusion group received intraperitoneal injection of 1 mL saline via the abdomen at two hours later, while rats in the treatment group at 2 hours later received intraperitoneal injection of 2 mg/L CGRP (0.5 mL) and 1×106 U/L NGF (0.5 mL) once a day for 10 successive days. First administration was accomplished within 15 minutes after ischemia/reperfusion. Rats in the sham-operation group were separated of the vessels without occlusion or administration. The neural function was evaluated with Zea Longa 5-grade scale. Animals with the score of one, two and three points received Morris water-maze test to measure searching time on platform (omitting platform-escaping latency). Meanwhile, leaning and memory abilities of animals were reflected through testing times of passing through platform per minute. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Experimental results of omitting platform-escaping latency and spatial probe. RESULTS: Three and two rats in the ischemia/reperfusion group and treatment group respectively were not in accordance with the criteria in the process, and the rest were involved in the final analysis. ① Comparisons of platform-escaping latency during Morris water-maze test in all the three groups: Ten days after modeling, the platform-escaping latency in the ischemia/reperfusion group was obviously longer than that in sham-operation group (P < 0.01), and was significantly shorter than that in the treatment group (P < 0.01). ② Comparisons of times of passing through platform in all the three groups: Times of passing through platform were remarkably less in the ischemia/reperfusion group than those in the sham-operation group [(1.79±0.39), (4.30±0.73) times/minute, P < 0.01], and those were markedly more in the treatment group than the ischemia/reperfusion group [(3.16±1.03), (1.79±0.39) times/minute, P < 0.01]. CONCLUSION: CGRP and NGF are capable of ameliorating the abilities of spatial learning and memory in MCAO rats, which indicates that CGRP and NGF can protect ischemic neurons.
文摘Objective To investigate the protective mechanisms of nerve growth factor (NGF) on spinal cord injury.Methods The spinal cord injury (SCI) of Wistar rats was performed by a 10g×2.5cm impact on the posterior T 12 spinal cord.The experimental animals received NGF liquid by subarachnoid space tube.The radioimmunological techniques were applied to examine the level of endothelin.Results The level of endothelin was significantly increased after the injury as compared with that in control group( P <0.01).The level of endothelin in NGF group as obviously lowered as compared with that in normal saline group 4 h after injury ( P <0.01).Conclusion NGF can protect spinal cord against injury in vivo .One of the mechanisms is that NGF could inhibit endothelin induced vicious circle.
基金Hebei Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine Project:Study on the Neuroendocrine Mechanism of Chronic Prostatitis Rats Regulated by the Method of Clearing heat and Dampness,Activating Blood and Removing Stasis(No.2019087)Hebei Provincial Department of Education for Postgraduate Innovation Ability Training Project:the Mechanism of Improving Pulmonary Function of COPD Rats with Lung Qi Deficiency by Regulating Intestinal Bacteria with Peitu Shengjin Formula(No.CXZZBS2020151)Provincial Universities Basic Research Funds Special Project:Study on the Mechanism of Shenling Baizhu Powder Based on Lung Intestine Axis to Interfere with the Deficiency of Lung and Spleen in Experimental COPD(YJZ2019010)。
文摘OBJECTIVE:To explore the mechanism by which Qinghua decoction(清化饮)regulates neuroendocrine inflammation in chronic nonbacterial prostatitis(CNP)model rats and provide an experimental basis for clinical treatment.METHODS:The rats were randomly divided into six groups:normal control,model,Qianlie Tongyu capsule,low-dose Qinghua decoction,medium-dose Qinghua decoction,and high-dose Qinghua decoction group with six rats in each group.Rats in each group were sacrificed on the 29th day of treatment,and blood and prostate tissues were collected.Serum levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukins 1-beta,6,8,and 10(TNF-αand IL-1β,-6,-8,and-10,respectively)were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.The pathological changes in the rat prostate tissue in each group were observed under a light microscope.The expression levels of chromogranin A(CgA),nerve growth factor(NGF),and tyrosine kinase A(TrkA)were detected using reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction.Western blotting was used to detect protein expression of CgA,NGF,and TrkA.RESULTS:In the model group,the prostate capsule membrane and stroma were significantly dilated with more inflammatory cells infiltrating the stroma and perivessels.TNF-α,IL-1β,-6,and-8,CgA,NGF,and TrkA levels increased,whereas the content of IL-10 decreased,which was statistically significant compared to that in the normal control group(P<0.05).Prostate tissue cells in the high-dose group were neatly arranged with no obvious inflammatory cell infiltration.When compared with the model group,the high-dose Qinghua decoction group showed a significant improvement in these indices(P<0.05).CONCLUSION:Qinghua decoction led to inhibition of pathological changes in the prostate tissue of rats with CNP,regulation of inflammatory cytokine expression,and inhibition in the expression of CgA,NGF,and TrkA.This mechanism may be primarily related to regulation of the CgA/NGF/TrkA signaling pathway mediated by various inflammatory factors.
