BACKGROUND IgG4-related disease(IgG4-RD)is a chronic fibrotic disease mediated by immunity recognized by clinicians in recent years.When the kidney is involved,it is called IgG4-related kidney disease(IgG4-RKD).IgG4-r...BACKGROUND IgG4-related disease(IgG4-RD)is a chronic fibrotic disease mediated by immunity recognized by clinicians in recent years.When the kidney is involved,it is called IgG4-related kidney disease(IgG4-RKD).IgG4-related tubulointerstitial nephritis(IgG4-TIN)is a representative manifestation of IgG4-RKD.IgG4-TIN can cause obstructive nephropathy complicated by retroperitoneal fibrosis(RPF).Cases of IgG4-TIN complicated with RPF are rare.Glucocorticoids are the firstline therapeutic medication for IgG4-RD and can significantly improve renal function.CASE SUMMARY Herein,we report the case of a 56-year-old man with IgG4-RKD complicated with RPF.The patient presented to the hospital with complaints of elevated serum creatinine(Cr),nausea,and vomiting.During hospitalization,Cr was 1448.6μmol/L,and serum IgG4 was increased.A total abdominal computed tomography(CT)scan and enhanced CT scan obviously indicated RPF.Although this patient had a long course and renal insufficiency,we performed a kidney biopsy.Renal biopsy showed that the renal tubulointerstitium had focal plasma cell infiltration and increased lymphocyte infiltration accompanied by fibrosis.After combining the biopsy results with immunohistochemistry,it was found that the absolute number of positive IgG4+cells per high power field exceeded 10,and the ratio of IgG4/IgG was over 40%.Finally,the patient was diagnosed with IgG4-TIN complicated with RPF and given glucocorticoids as long-term maintenance therapy,helping him keep out of dialysis.After a follow-up of 19 mo,the patient had recovered well.Previous literature on IgG4-RKD and RPF was retrieved from PubMed to characterize the clinical and pathological features and to identify the diagnosis and treatment of IgG4-RKD.CONCLUSION Our case report demonstrates the clinical characteristics of IgG4-RKD complicated with RPF.Serum IgG4 is a favorable indicator for screening.Performing renal biopsy actively plays a vital role in diagnosis and treatment,even if the patient has a long course and manifests with renal insufficiency.It is remarkable to treat IgG4-RKD with glucocorticoids.Hence,early diagnosis and targeted therapy are essential for reversing renal function and improving extrarenal manifestations in patients with IgG4-RKD.展开更多
Objective:To evaluate the mechanism of Astragalus membranaceus(AM)by intervening peritoneal mesothelial cells(PMCs),epithelial-mesenchymal transition(EMT),and spleen deficiency syndrome(SDS)in peritoneal fibrosis(PF),...Objective:To evaluate the mechanism of Astragalus membranaceus(AM)by intervening peritoneal mesothelial cells(PMCs),epithelial-mesenchymal transition(EMT),and spleen deficiency syndrome(SDS)in peritoneal fibrosis(PF),we base on employing the strategy of Q-marker theory combination network pharmacology method.Methods:First,we obtained the Q-markers of AM by searching the relevant literature and its pharmacological information was collected based on SwissADME.The SwissTargetPrediction and pharmmaper were employed to predict its potential target.Secondly,GeneCards,DisGeNET,and OMIM databases were employed to search the related targets of EMT,SDS,and PF.VENNY2.1 tool was employed to obtain the intersection targets of AM and the three;then the“AM potential target-SDS-EMT-PF”Venn diagram was constructed.The common targets of AM,EMT and SDS were uploaded to the STRING database and obtained the PPI protein interaction network map.Cytoscape 3.7.2 was employed to evaluate the core target of PPI network.PATHER and Metascape databases were used to analyze protein type,GO biological process,and KEGG pathway.Finally,a network diagram of the“TCM-component-disease target-pathway”was drawn.Results:A total of 10 AM Q-makers were screened out,corresponding to 335 targets of AM,2,728 targets of SDS,373 of EMT,and 612 PF targets were found.Among them,there are 155 common AM targets related to SDS and EMT.Key targets such as ALB,AKT1,VEGFA,TNF,EGFR,CASP3,SRC,STAT3,HSP90AA1,and ESR1 were obtained.The core drug include quercetin,astragalosideIII,Calycosin-7-O-beta-D-glucoside,astragalosideIV,etc.The types of PPI proteins include protein modification enzymes,metabolite transferases,transmembrane signal receptors,etc.Biological processes include the regulation of kinase activity,the positive regulation of transferase activity,and the regulation of kinase activity.The key pathways may include PI3K-Akt signaling pathways,the non-smad pathway of the TGF-βsignaling pathway,and the AGE-RAGE signaling pathway.Conclusion:AM could prevent and treat PF through a multi-component multi-target-multi-path mechanism.Astragalus saponins may be the main component types of AM intervening EMT pathology by strengthening the spleen and nourishing Qi.AstragalosideIV and astragalosideIII may be the constituents that can invigorate the spleen and replenish Qi.The results of this study contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the critical components and mechanisms of AM by intervening SDS and EMT in the treatment of PF.展开更多
We report a case of IgG4-related disease presenting both tubulointerstitial nephritis and retroperitoneal fibrosis causing acute renal failure in a 63-year-old male. He was admitted to our hospital because of acute re...We report a case of IgG4-related disease presenting both tubulointerstitial nephritis and retroperitoneal fibrosis causing acute renal failure in a 63-year-old male. He was admitted to our hospital because of acute renal failure requiring emergent hemodialysis. Computed tomography showed a soft-tissue density mass with an irregular border in the retroperitoneum. The mass involved bilateral ureters and had caused acute renal failure by bilateral hydronephrosis. Because of a history of uveitis and high IgG4 levels, we considered a diagnosis of retroperitoneal fibrosis, IgG4-related disease. Kidney biopsy revealed IgG4-related kidney disease with interstitial nephritis. After relief of urinary obstruction by inserting ureteral catheters into the bilateral ureters, renal function recovered.展开更多
Retroperitoneal fibrosis is a rare disease characterized by the development of inflammation and fibrosis in the soft tissues of the retroperitoneum and other abdominal organs.Retroperitoneal fibrosis can be of 2 types...Retroperitoneal fibrosis is a rare disease characterized by the development of inflammation and fibrosis in the soft tissues of the retroperitoneum and other abdominal organs.Retroperitoneal fibrosis can be of 2 types:idiopathic and secondary.The recently advocated concept and diagnostic criteria of immunoglobulin G4(IgG4)-related disease,derived from research on autoimmune pancreatitis(AIP),has led to widespread recognition of retroperitoneal fibrosis as a condition caused by IgG4-related disease.We now know that previously diagnosed idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis includes IgG4-related disease;however,the actual prevalence is unclear.Conversely,some reports on AIP suggest that retroperitoneal fibrosis is concurrently found in about 10% of IgG4-related disease.Because retroperitoneal fibrosis has no specific symptoms,diagnosis is primarily based on diagnostic imaging(computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging),which is also useful in evaluating the effect of therapy.Idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis can occur at different times with other lesions of IgG4-related disease including AIP.Thus,the IgG4 assay is recommended to diagnose idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis.High serum IgG4 levels should be treated and monitored as a symptom of IgG4-related disease.The first line of treatment for retroperitoneal fibrosis is steroid therapy regardless of its cause.For patients with concurrent AIP,i.e.,IgG4-related retroperitoneal fibrosis,the starting dose of steroid is usually 30-40 mg/d.The response to steroid therapy is generally favorable.In most cases,the pancreatic lesion and retroperitoneal fibrosis improve after the initial treatment.However,the epidemiology,treatment for recurring retroperitoneal fibrosis,and long-term prognosis are still largely unknown.Further analysis of such cases and research are necessary.展开更多
Retroperitoneal fibrosis secondary to malignant disease is a rare condition associated with a dismal prognosis. We herein present the first ever reported case of ret-roperitoneal fibrosis related to esophageal adenoca...Retroperitoneal fibrosis secondary to malignant disease is a rare condition associated with a dismal prognosis. We herein present the first ever reported case of ret-roperitoneal fibrosis related to esophageal adenocarcinoma in a 63-year-old patient who developed bilateral ureteral obstruction due to extensive retroperitoneal fibrosis 18 mo after having completed neoadjuvant chemoradation followed by surgery for a pT3N0 ad-enocarcinoma of the distal esophagus. We also report the case of a previously healthy woman who presented with bilateral ureteral obstruction and diffuse narrowing of the common biliary duct and was found to have extensive retroperitoneal fibrosis as a consequence of metastatic gastric adenocarcinoma. Both patients had poor performance status and were unsuitable for pallia-tive chemotherapy. This paper shows that urinary and biliary obstructive symptoms might represent retroperi-toneal fibrosis as a consequence of gastroesophageal malignancy.展开更多
Retroperitoneal fibrosis (RPF) is a rare condition of unclear etiology. It can cause ureteral obstruction. We present the unique case of a 54 years old female, who initially presented with spontaneous perforation of t...Retroperitoneal fibrosis (RPF) is a rare condition of unclear etiology. It can cause ureteral obstruction. We present the unique case of a 54 years old female, who initially presented with spontaneous perforation of the cecum. Upon exploring the abdomen, the classical glistening white, unyielding retroperitoneal fibrosis was encountered. A right hemicolectomy was performed. Subsequently, the patient presented with bilateral ureteral obstruction, and later on with small bowel obstruction. Ureteral obstruction was treated with stents, and small bowel obstruction was treated with bypass. To our knowledge no case of idiopathic RPF presenting with features of both bilateral ureteral and small bowel obstruction has been reported in the literature.展开更多
Peritoneal fibrosis together with increased capillaries is the primary cause of peritoneal dialysis failure.Mesothelial cell loss is an initiating event for peritoneal fibrosis.We find that the elevated glucose concen...Peritoneal fibrosis together with increased capillaries is the primary cause of peritoneal dialysis failure.Mesothelial cell loss is an initiating event for peritoneal fibrosis.We find that the elevated glucose concentrations in peritoneal dialysate drive mesothelial cell pyroptosis in a manner dependent on caspase-3 and Gasdermin E,driving downstream inflammatory responses,including the activation of macrophages.Moreover,pyroptosis is associated with elevated vascular endothelial growth factor A and C,two key factors in vascular angiogenesis and lymphatic vessel formation.GSDME deficiency mice are protected from high glucose induced peritoneal fibrosis and ultrafiltration failure.Application of melatonin abrogates mesothelial cell pyroptosis through a MT1R-mediated action,and successfully reduces peritoneal fibrosis and angiogenesis in an animal model while preserving dialysis efficacy.Mechanistically,melatonin treatment maintains mitochondrial integrity in mesothelial cells,meanwhile activating m TOR signaling through an increase in the glycolysis product dihydroxyacetone phosphate.These effects together with quenching free radicals by melatonin help mesothelial cells maintain a relatively stable internal environment in the face of high-glucose stress.Thus,Melatonin treatment holds some promise in preserving mesothelium integrity and in decreasing angiogenesis to protect peritoneum function in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis.展开更多
CircRNAs,a novel type of endogenous non-coding RNAs(ncRNAs),are typically produced by back-splicing from exons of protein-coding genes,which are characterized by a covalently closed structure with neither 5'to 3&#...CircRNAs,a novel type of endogenous non-coding RNAs(ncRNAs),are typically produced by back-splicing from exons of protein-coding genes,which are characterized by a covalently closed structure with neither 5'to 3'polarity nor a poly(A)tail.'On the one hand,circRNAs are involved in the regulation of a variety of important biological processes,such as apoptosis,proliferation,migration,and inflammatory responses.'On the other hand,the relationship between circRNAs and several fibrotic diseases has been reported.2 However.展开更多
BACKGROUND Diffusion-weighted imaging(DWI)has been developed to stage liver fibrosis.However,its diagnostic performance is inconsistent among studies.Therefore,it is worth studying the diagnostic value of various diff...BACKGROUND Diffusion-weighted imaging(DWI)has been developed to stage liver fibrosis.However,its diagnostic performance is inconsistent among studies.Therefore,it is worth studying the diagnostic value of various diffusion models for liver fibrosis in one cohort.AIM To evaluate the clinical potential of six diffusion-weighted models in liver fibrosis staging and compare their diagnostic performances.METHODS This prospective study enrolled 59 patients suspected of liver disease and scheduled for liver biopsy and 17 healthy participants.All participants underwent multi-b value DWI.The main DWI-derived parameters included Mono-apparent diffusion coefficient(ADC)from mono-exponential DWI,intravoxel incoherent motion model-derived true diffusion coefficient(IVIM-D),diffusion kurtosis imaging-derived apparent diffusivity(DKI-MD),stretched exponential model-derived distributed diffusion coefficient(SEM-DDC),fractional order calculus(FROC)model-derived diffusion coefficient(FROC-D)and FROC model-derived microstructural quantity(FROC-μ),and continuous-time random-walk(CTRW)model-derived anomalous diffusion coefficient(CTRW-D)and CTRW model-derived temporal diffusion heterogeneity index(CTRW-α).The correlations between DWI-derived parameters and fibrosis stages and the parameters’diagnostic efficacy in detecting significant fibrosis(SF)were assessed and compared.RESULTS CTRW-D(r=-0.356),CTRW-α(r=-0.297),DKI-MD(r=-0.297),FROC-D(r=-0.350),FROC-μ(r=-0.321),IVIM-D(r=-0.251),Mono-ADC(r=-0.362),and SEM-DDC(r=-0.263)were significantly correlated with fibrosis stages.The areas under the ROC curves(AUCs)of the combined index of the six models for distinguishing SF(0.697-0.747)were higher than each of the parameters alone(0.524-0.719).The DWI models’ability to detect SF was similar.The combined index of CTRW model parameters had the highest AUC(0.747).CONCLUSION The DWI models were similarly valuable in distinguishing SF in patients with liver disease.The combined index of CTRW parameters had the highest AUC.展开更多
Introduction: Fibroscan is a recent, non-invasive and non-irradiating diagnostic method. It is based on the principle of ultrasound, which enables liver tissue elasticity to be quantified using a probe, and fibrosis t...Introduction: Fibroscan is a recent, non-invasive and non-irradiating diagnostic method. It is based on the principle of ultrasound, which enables liver tissue elasticity to be quantified using a probe, and fibrosis to be assessed. Fibroscan measures both elasticity correlated with hepatic fibrosis and CAP correlated with steatosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate hepatic fibrosis and steatosis using pulse elastometry (Fibroscan/CAP). Methods: This was a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study in which 170 patients were included. It was conducted from October 1 2021 to December 31 2023, i.e. 27 months, in an outpatient clinic in the hepato-gastroenterology department of the Donka national hospital of the CHU Conakry. Results: Of the 170 patients identified, 87 were male (51%) and 83 female (49%), giving a M/F sex ratio of 1.04. The average age of our patients was 40. The 30 - 50 age group was the most affected, with a frequency of 58.23% (n = 99), followed by the 50 age group with a frequency of 29.41% (n = 50). Hepatomegaly, steatotic liver on ultrasonography, transaminase elevation and obesity were the main indications, respectively: (21.76%), (17.65%), (14.71%), and (13.53%). The examinations were requested by hepatogastroenterologists (47.06%), diabetologists (35.88%) and general practitioners (29%). Of the 170 patients, 100 patients (58.82%) had no significant fibrosis F0F1, 39 (22.94%) had moderate fibrosis F2, 20 patients (11.76%) had severe fibrosis F3 and 11 patients (6.47%) had fibrosis F4. Hepatic steatosis: 62 patients (36.47%) had no S0 steatosis;29.41% had S1 steatosis, 20% had S2 steatosis and 24 patients (14.11%) had S3 steatosis. Abdominal ultrasound revealed a normal liver in 67.05% of patients, hepatic steatosis in 29.41% and non-decompensated cirrhosis in 6 cases. Thus, 108 patients had the parameters required to calculate the Fatty Liver Index (FLI), steatosis was present in 20% of our patients, while 29.41% had an undetermined status and 24 14.11% had a normal FLI. Conclusion: Identifying subjects at risk of metabolic steatopathy, diagnosing and managing these patients is a public health issue and one of the future challenges of hepato-gastroenterology. Fibroscan is an increasingly popular screening tool for hepatic fibrosis and steatosis. The fight against obesity must be a priority.展开更多
The global spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 has resulted in a significant number of individuals developing pulmonary fibrosis(PF),an irreversible lung injury.This condition can manifest within...The global spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 has resulted in a significant number of individuals developing pulmonary fibrosis(PF),an irreversible lung injury.This condition can manifest within a short inter-val following the onset of pneumonia symptoms,sometimes even within a few days.While lung transplantation is a potentially lifesaving procedure,its limited availability,high costs,intricate surgeries,and risk of immunological rejection present significant drawbacks.The optimal timing of medication administration for coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)-induced PF remains controversial.Despite this,it is crucial to explore pharmacotherapy interventions,involving early and preventative treatment as well as pharmacotherapy options for advanced-stage PF.Additionally,studies have demonstrated disparities in anti-fibrotic treatment based on race and gender factors.Genetic mutations may also impact therapeutic efficacy.Enhancing research efforts on pharmacotherapy interventions,while considering relevant pharmacological factors and optimizing the timing and dosage of medication administration,will lead to enhanced,personalized,and fair treatment for individuals impacted by COVID-19-related PF.These measures are crucial in lessening the burden of the disease on healthcare systems and improving patients'quality of life.展开更多
Background:Lower urinary tract symptoms commonly occur in the elderly population and seriously constrain the quality of life.Glandular fibrosis is an important pathobiological process in benign prostatic hyperplasia a...Background:Lower urinary tract symptoms commonly occur in the elderly population and seriously constrain the quality of life.Glandular fibrosis is an important pathobiological process in benign prostatic hyperplasia and is also a main inducing factor for benign prostatic hyperplasia-associated lower urinary tract symptoms.Cistanches species is an important herbal medicine resource and is traditionally used in ameliorating renal and prostatic defects.Methods:This study was to investigate the potential protective function of echinacoside(a bioactive compound from Cistanches)against prostatic fibrosis in mice and human benign prostatic hyperplasia epithelial-1 cell models.Results:It was found that echinacoside attenuated testosterone-induced prostatic hyperplasia and collagen deposition in mice,relieved prostate local inflammation and oxidative damage,and ameliorated prostatic epithelial-mesenchymal transition.Additionally,echinacoside inhibited the activation of the MKK6/MK2 signaling pathway both in vivo and in vitro.Conclusion:This study added new evidence for the anti-fibrotic function of echinacoside on the prostate and provided new insights for understanding its possible pharmacological mechanisms.展开更多
Background:Puerarin(Pue)has been reported to be a natural active ingredient with multiple antifibrotic properties.This work aimed at exploring the function of Pue in oral submucousfibrosis(OSF)treatment.Methods:Human or...Background:Puerarin(Pue)has been reported to be a natural active ingredient with multiple antifibrotic properties.This work aimed at exploring the function of Pue in oral submucousfibrosis(OSF)treatment.Methods:Human oral mucosafibroblasts(hOMF)were induced with transforming growth factor beta1(TGF-β1)and intervened with Pue.Expressions offibrosis-related markers were analyzed by Western blot and IF staining.Cell viability was characterized by the CCK-8 assay.Expressions of miR-30 family members were quantified by qRT-PCR.The correlation betweenfibroblast activation protein(FAP)and miR-30 family expression was evaluated by the Pearson correlation coefficient.Bioinformatics prediction and dual-luciferase reporter assay were employed to verify the regulation between FAP and miR-30b-5p.The specific mechanism of Pue on OSF was explored through the promotion or inhibition of miR-30b-5p.Results:After induction by TGF-β1,hOMF showed upregulated Collagen I,Collagen III,and FAP expressions,while miR-30 family expression was downregulated with miR-30b-5p being the most significant.Pue intervention inhibited the excessive proliferation of TGF-β1-induced hOMF,downregulated FAP,collagen type 3(COL3A1),collagen type 1(COL1A1),matrix metalloproteinase 1(MMP1),and matrix metalloproteinase 3(MMP3)expressions,and restored miR-30 family expression.Bioinformatics prediction and dual-luciferase reporter assay revealed that miR-30b-5p selectively inhibited FAP expression.Mechanistically,miR-30b-5p mimic suppressed the excessive proliferation of TGF-β1-induced hOMF and declinedfibrosis levels.Pue intervention significantly reversed the promotion of TGF-β1-induced OSF by miR-30b-5p inhibition.Conclusion:Pue mediated miR-30b-5p targeting FAP against OSF,which provided a theoretical basis for the pathogenesis research and Pue application in OSF.展开更多
In the present issue of the World Journal of Hepatology,Ferrassi et al examine the problem of liver fibrosis staging in chronic hepatitis C.They identify novel biomarkers in an effort to predict accurate fibrosis stag...In the present issue of the World Journal of Hepatology,Ferrassi et al examine the problem of liver fibrosis staging in chronic hepatitis C.They identify novel biomarkers in an effort to predict accurate fibrosis staging with the aid of the metabolome of Hepatitis C patients.Overall I think Ferrassi et al took a different approach in identifying fibrosis biomarkers,by looking at the patients’metabolome.Their biomarkers clearly separate patients from controls.They can also separate out,patients with minimal fibrosis(F0-F1 stage)and patients with cirrhosis(F4 stage).Obviously,if these biomarkers were to be widely used,tests for all the important metabolites would need to be readily available for use in hospitals or outpatient setting and that may prove difficult and above all,costly.Nevertheless,this step could eventually lead to a metabolomic approach for novel biomarkers of Fibrosis.Obviously,it would need to be validated,but could represent a step towards the Holy Grail of Hepatology.展开更多
The present letter to the editor is related to the study titled‘Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 improves liver fibrosis in mice by regulating autophagy of hepatic stellate cells’.Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 can ...The present letter to the editor is related to the study titled‘Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 improves liver fibrosis in mice by regulating autophagy of hepatic stellate cells’.Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 can alleviate liver fibrosis by regulating autophagy of hepatic stellate cells and affecting the renin-angiotensin system.展开更多
Background:Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD)is a chronic condition characterized by a progressive decline in liver function,leading to disruptions in liver integrity and metabolic function,resulting in lipid dep...Background:Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD)is a chronic condition characterized by a progressive decline in liver function,leading to disruptions in liver integrity and metabolic function,resulting in lipid deposition and excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix(ECM).The pathogenesis of NAFLD is complex and not yet fully understood,contributing to the absence of specific therapeutic strategies.Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma(PPARγ)is a ligand-activated transcription factor pivotal in regulating lipid and glucose metabolism.However,the impacts of PPARγon NAFLD remains insufficiently explored.Thus,this study aimed to investigate the role of PPARγin NAFLD and its underlying molecular mechanisms.Methods:Chemical detection kits were utilized to quantify collagen content,alanine aminotransferase(ALT),and aspartate aminotransferase(AST)level variations.Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(qRT-PCR)was employed to assess alterations in extracellular matrix-related genes and inflammatory response genes in liver tissue and HepG2 cells,while western blotting was conducted to analyze the levels of both PPARγand the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway.Results:Our findings unveiled significantly reduced PPARγexpression in a rat model of NAFLD,leading to subsequent activation of the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway.Furthermore,PPARγactivation effectively mitigated NAFLD progression by inhibiting inflammation and fibrosis-related gene expression and collagen production.On a cellular level,PPARγactivation was found to inhibit the expression of extracellular matrix-related genes such as matrix metalloproteinase 2(MMP2)and matrix metalloproteinase 9(MMP9),along with inflammatory response genes interleukin(IL)-1βand IL-6.Additionally,PPARγactivation led to a significant decrease in the levels of ALT and AST.At the molecular level,PPARγnotably down-regulated the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway,which is known to promote liver fibrosis.Conclusion:These groundbreaking findings underscore PPARγactivation as a promising therapeutic approach to delay NAFLD progression by targeting the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway in hepatic cells.This highlights the potential of PPARγas a promising therapeutic target for NAFLD management in clinical settings.展开更多
BACKGROUND Development of end-stage renal disease is predominantly attributed to diabetic nephropathy(DN).Previous studies have indicated that myricetin possesses the potential to mitigate the pathological alterations...BACKGROUND Development of end-stage renal disease is predominantly attributed to diabetic nephropathy(DN).Previous studies have indicated that myricetin possesses the potential to mitigate the pathological alterations observed in renal tissue.Never-theless,the precise molecular mechanism through which myricetin influences the progression of DN remains uncertain.AIM To investigate the effects of myricetin on DN and explore its potential therapeutic mechanism.METHODS Db/db mice were administered myricetin intragastrically on a daily basis at doses of 50 mg/kg or 100 mg/kg for a duration of 12 wk.Subsequently,blood and urine indexes were assessed,along with examination of renal tissue pathology.Kidney morphology and fibrosis were evaluated using various staining techniques including hematoxylin and eosin,periodic acid–Schiff,Masson’s trichrome,and Sirius-red.Additionally,high-glucose culturing was conducted on the RAW 264.7 cell line,treated with 25 mM myricetin or co-administered with the PI3K/Akt inhibitor LY294002 for a period of 24 h.In both in vivo and in vitro settings,quantification of inflammation factor levels was conducted using western blotting,real-time qPCR and ELISA.RESULTS In db/db mice,administration of myricetin led to a mitigating effect on DN-induced renal dysfunction and fibrosis.Notably,we observed a significant reduction in expressions of the kidney injury markers kidney injury molecule-1 and neutrophil gelatinase associated lipocalin,along with a decrease in expressions of inflammatory cytokine-related factors.Furthermore,myricetin treatment effectively inhibited the up-regulation of tumor necrosis factor-alpha,interleukin-6,and interluekin-1βinduced by high glucose in RAW 264.7 cells.Additionally,myricetin modulated the M1-type polarization of the RAW 264.7 cells.Molecular docking and bioinformatic analyses revealed Akt as the target of myricetin.The protective effect of myricetin was nullified upon blocking the polarization of RAW 264.7 via inhibition of PI3K/Akt activation using LY294002.CONCLUSION This study demonstrated that myricetin effectively mitigates kidney injury in DN mice through the regulation of macrophage polarization via the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.展开更多
Background and Objective:Cardiac fibrosis is a pathological reparative process that follows myocardial infarctionand is associated with compromised cardiac systolic and reduced cardiac compliance.The Wnt signaling pat...Background and Objective:Cardiac fibrosis is a pathological reparative process that follows myocardial infarctionand is associated with compromised cardiac systolic and reduced cardiac compliance.The Wnt signaling pathway is closely implicated in organ fibrosis,and Notum,a highly conserved secreted inhibitor,modulates Wnt signaling.The objective of this study was to explore the role and mechanism of Notum in cardiac fibrosis.Methods:A mouse model of cardiac remodeling was established through left coronary artery ligation surgery,with the addition of Notum injection following myocardial infarction surgery.The protective effect of Notum on myocardial infarction was assessed by evaluating cardiac function,including survival rate,echocardiographic assessment,and cardiac contraction analyses.Inflammatory cell necrosis and infiltration were confirmed through H&E and Masson staining.The expression of fibrosis-related genes andβ-catenin pathway markers was detected using Western blot quantificational RT-PCR(qRT-PCR).Additionally,EdU,wound healing,and immunofluorescence staining analyses were performed to detect the effect of Notum's in transforming growth factor beta-1(TGF-β1)induced myofibroblast transformation.Results:The administration of Notum treatment resulted in enhanced survival rates,improved cardiac function,and decreased necrosis and infiltration of inflammatory cells in mice subjected to left coronary artery ligation.Furthermore,Notum effectively impeded the senescence of cardiac fibroblasts and hindered their pathological transformation into cardiac fibroblasts.Additionally,it significantly reduced collagen production and attenuated the activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway.Our preliminary investigations successfully demonstrated the therapeutic potential of Notum in both fibroblasts in vitro and in a mouse model of myocardial infarction-induced cardiac fibrosis in vivo.Conclusion:Notum inhibition of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and cardiac fibroblast senescence ultimately hampers the onset of cardiac fibrosis.Our findings suggest that Notum could represent a new therapeutic strategy for the treatment of cardiac fibrosis.展开更多
Background:Renalfibrosis is an important process in the development of chronic kidney disease.Understanding the pathogenesis andfinding effective treatments for renalfibrosis is crucial.This study aims to investigate whe...Background:Renalfibrosis is an important process in the development of chronic kidney disease.Understanding the pathogenesis andfinding effective treatments for renalfibrosis is crucial.This study aims to investigate whether a newly discovered long non-coding RNA(lncRNA)called LOC103694972 could be a potential target for treatingfibrosis of NRK-49F cells.Methods:LncRNA Chip was used to identify differentially expressed lncRNAs between TGF-β1-induced NRK-49F cells and normal cells.The dual-luciferase assay confirmed the binding between miR-29c-3p and signal transducer and activator of transcription(STAT3),as well as between miR-29c-3p and lncRNA LOC103694972.Si-LOC103694972 and miR-29c-3p mimic were then transfected into TGF-β1-induced NRK-49F cells.Results:The study found that LOC103694972 was highly expressed in TGF-β1-induced NRK-49F cells.These cells exhibited increased cell length and activity compared to the control group.The expression levels of Collagen I,α-Smooth muscle actin(α-SMA),and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase(TIMP-1)were increased,while matrix Metalloproteinase 2(MMP2)and matrix Metalloproteinase 9(MMP9)expression was decreased.However,transfection with si-LOC103694972 and miR-29c-3p mimics restored cell morphology and reduced cell viability.This led to a decrease in the levels of Collagen I,α-SMA,and TIMP-1,as well as an increase in MMP2 and MMP9 expression.Additionally,TGF-β1-induced NRK-49F cells transfected with miR-29c-3p mimics activated the STAT3-Smad3/CTGF pathway.Conclusion:Based on thesefindings,lncRNA LOC103694972 shows promise as a target for treating renalfibrosis.It negatively regulates miR-29c-3p and activates the STAT3-Smad3/CTGF pathway.展开更多
基金Supported by the Introduction of High-level Health Team Project in Zhuhai.
文摘BACKGROUND IgG4-related disease(IgG4-RD)is a chronic fibrotic disease mediated by immunity recognized by clinicians in recent years.When the kidney is involved,it is called IgG4-related kidney disease(IgG4-RKD).IgG4-related tubulointerstitial nephritis(IgG4-TIN)is a representative manifestation of IgG4-RKD.IgG4-TIN can cause obstructive nephropathy complicated by retroperitoneal fibrosis(RPF).Cases of IgG4-TIN complicated with RPF are rare.Glucocorticoids are the firstline therapeutic medication for IgG4-RD and can significantly improve renal function.CASE SUMMARY Herein,we report the case of a 56-year-old man with IgG4-RKD complicated with RPF.The patient presented to the hospital with complaints of elevated serum creatinine(Cr),nausea,and vomiting.During hospitalization,Cr was 1448.6μmol/L,and serum IgG4 was increased.A total abdominal computed tomography(CT)scan and enhanced CT scan obviously indicated RPF.Although this patient had a long course and renal insufficiency,we performed a kidney biopsy.Renal biopsy showed that the renal tubulointerstitium had focal plasma cell infiltration and increased lymphocyte infiltration accompanied by fibrosis.After combining the biopsy results with immunohistochemistry,it was found that the absolute number of positive IgG4+cells per high power field exceeded 10,and the ratio of IgG4/IgG was over 40%.Finally,the patient was diagnosed with IgG4-TIN complicated with RPF and given glucocorticoids as long-term maintenance therapy,helping him keep out of dialysis.After a follow-up of 19 mo,the patient had recovered well.Previous literature on IgG4-RKD and RPF was retrieved from PubMed to characterize the clinical and pathological features and to identify the diagnosis and treatment of IgG4-RKD.CONCLUSION Our case report demonstrates the clinical characteristics of IgG4-RKD complicated with RPF.Serum IgG4 is a favorable indicator for screening.Performing renal biopsy actively plays a vital role in diagnosis and treatment,even if the patient has a long course and manifests with renal insufficiency.It is remarkable to treat IgG4-RKD with glucocorticoids.Hence,early diagnosis and targeted therapy are essential for reversing renal function and improving extrarenal manifestations in patients with IgG4-RKD.
文摘Objective:To evaluate the mechanism of Astragalus membranaceus(AM)by intervening peritoneal mesothelial cells(PMCs),epithelial-mesenchymal transition(EMT),and spleen deficiency syndrome(SDS)in peritoneal fibrosis(PF),we base on employing the strategy of Q-marker theory combination network pharmacology method.Methods:First,we obtained the Q-markers of AM by searching the relevant literature and its pharmacological information was collected based on SwissADME.The SwissTargetPrediction and pharmmaper were employed to predict its potential target.Secondly,GeneCards,DisGeNET,and OMIM databases were employed to search the related targets of EMT,SDS,and PF.VENNY2.1 tool was employed to obtain the intersection targets of AM and the three;then the“AM potential target-SDS-EMT-PF”Venn diagram was constructed.The common targets of AM,EMT and SDS were uploaded to the STRING database and obtained the PPI protein interaction network map.Cytoscape 3.7.2 was employed to evaluate the core target of PPI network.PATHER and Metascape databases were used to analyze protein type,GO biological process,and KEGG pathway.Finally,a network diagram of the“TCM-component-disease target-pathway”was drawn.Results:A total of 10 AM Q-makers were screened out,corresponding to 335 targets of AM,2,728 targets of SDS,373 of EMT,and 612 PF targets were found.Among them,there are 155 common AM targets related to SDS and EMT.Key targets such as ALB,AKT1,VEGFA,TNF,EGFR,CASP3,SRC,STAT3,HSP90AA1,and ESR1 were obtained.The core drug include quercetin,astragalosideIII,Calycosin-7-O-beta-D-glucoside,astragalosideIV,etc.The types of PPI proteins include protein modification enzymes,metabolite transferases,transmembrane signal receptors,etc.Biological processes include the regulation of kinase activity,the positive regulation of transferase activity,and the regulation of kinase activity.The key pathways may include PI3K-Akt signaling pathways,the non-smad pathway of the TGF-βsignaling pathway,and the AGE-RAGE signaling pathway.Conclusion:AM could prevent and treat PF through a multi-component multi-target-multi-path mechanism.Astragalus saponins may be the main component types of AM intervening EMT pathology by strengthening the spleen and nourishing Qi.AstragalosideIV and astragalosideIII may be the constituents that can invigorate the spleen and replenish Qi.The results of this study contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the critical components and mechanisms of AM by intervening SDS and EMT in the treatment of PF.
文摘We report a case of IgG4-related disease presenting both tubulointerstitial nephritis and retroperitoneal fibrosis causing acute renal failure in a 63-year-old male. He was admitted to our hospital because of acute renal failure requiring emergent hemodialysis. Computed tomography showed a soft-tissue density mass with an irregular border in the retroperitoneum. The mass involved bilateral ureters and had caused acute renal failure by bilateral hydronephrosis. Because of a history of uveitis and high IgG4 levels, we considered a diagnosis of retroperitoneal fibrosis, IgG4-related disease. Kidney biopsy revealed IgG4-related kidney disease with interstitial nephritis. After relief of urinary obstruction by inserting ureteral catheters into the bilateral ureters, renal function recovered.
基金Supported by The Research Program of Intractable Disease and the Research Committee of Intractable Pancreatic Diseases of the Ministry of Health,Labor and Welfare of Japan
文摘Retroperitoneal fibrosis is a rare disease characterized by the development of inflammation and fibrosis in the soft tissues of the retroperitoneum and other abdominal organs.Retroperitoneal fibrosis can be of 2 types:idiopathic and secondary.The recently advocated concept and diagnostic criteria of immunoglobulin G4(IgG4)-related disease,derived from research on autoimmune pancreatitis(AIP),has led to widespread recognition of retroperitoneal fibrosis as a condition caused by IgG4-related disease.We now know that previously diagnosed idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis includes IgG4-related disease;however,the actual prevalence is unclear.Conversely,some reports on AIP suggest that retroperitoneal fibrosis is concurrently found in about 10% of IgG4-related disease.Because retroperitoneal fibrosis has no specific symptoms,diagnosis is primarily based on diagnostic imaging(computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging),which is also useful in evaluating the effect of therapy.Idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis can occur at different times with other lesions of IgG4-related disease including AIP.Thus,the IgG4 assay is recommended to diagnose idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis.High serum IgG4 levels should be treated and monitored as a symptom of IgG4-related disease.The first line of treatment for retroperitoneal fibrosis is steroid therapy regardless of its cause.For patients with concurrent AIP,i.e.,IgG4-related retroperitoneal fibrosis,the starting dose of steroid is usually 30-40 mg/d.The response to steroid therapy is generally favorable.In most cases,the pancreatic lesion and retroperitoneal fibrosis improve after the initial treatment.However,the epidemiology,treatment for recurring retroperitoneal fibrosis,and long-term prognosis are still largely unknown.Further analysis of such cases and research are necessary.
文摘Retroperitoneal fibrosis secondary to malignant disease is a rare condition associated with a dismal prognosis. We herein present the first ever reported case of ret-roperitoneal fibrosis related to esophageal adenocarcinoma in a 63-year-old patient who developed bilateral ureteral obstruction due to extensive retroperitoneal fibrosis 18 mo after having completed neoadjuvant chemoradation followed by surgery for a pT3N0 ad-enocarcinoma of the distal esophagus. We also report the case of a previously healthy woman who presented with bilateral ureteral obstruction and diffuse narrowing of the common biliary duct and was found to have extensive retroperitoneal fibrosis as a consequence of metastatic gastric adenocarcinoma. Both patients had poor performance status and were unsuitable for pallia-tive chemotherapy. This paper shows that urinary and biliary obstructive symptoms might represent retroperi-toneal fibrosis as a consequence of gastroesophageal malignancy.
文摘Retroperitoneal fibrosis (RPF) is a rare condition of unclear etiology. It can cause ureteral obstruction. We present the unique case of a 54 years old female, who initially presented with spontaneous perforation of the cecum. Upon exploring the abdomen, the classical glistening white, unyielding retroperitoneal fibrosis was encountered. A right hemicolectomy was performed. Subsequently, the patient presented with bilateral ureteral obstruction, and later on with small bowel obstruction. Ureteral obstruction was treated with stents, and small bowel obstruction was treated with bypass. To our knowledge no case of idiopathic RPF presenting with features of both bilateral ureteral and small bowel obstruction has been reported in the literature.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2020YFC2005002)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(81970642,81370460,81700580,81670668,22222409)+1 种基金Key research and development grant from The Department of Science and Technology,Liaoning ProvinceInnovative Leading Researcher grant from the Department of Science and Technology,Dalian,and Key Laboratory of Immune,Genetic and Metabolic Kidney Diseases,Dalian,and Youth Innovation Promotion Association of CAS(2018212)。
文摘Peritoneal fibrosis together with increased capillaries is the primary cause of peritoneal dialysis failure.Mesothelial cell loss is an initiating event for peritoneal fibrosis.We find that the elevated glucose concentrations in peritoneal dialysate drive mesothelial cell pyroptosis in a manner dependent on caspase-3 and Gasdermin E,driving downstream inflammatory responses,including the activation of macrophages.Moreover,pyroptosis is associated with elevated vascular endothelial growth factor A and C,two key factors in vascular angiogenesis and lymphatic vessel formation.GSDME deficiency mice are protected from high glucose induced peritoneal fibrosis and ultrafiltration failure.Application of melatonin abrogates mesothelial cell pyroptosis through a MT1R-mediated action,and successfully reduces peritoneal fibrosis and angiogenesis in an animal model while preserving dialysis efficacy.Mechanistically,melatonin treatment maintains mitochondrial integrity in mesothelial cells,meanwhile activating m TOR signaling through an increase in the glycolysis product dihydroxyacetone phosphate.These effects together with quenching free radicals by melatonin help mesothelial cells maintain a relatively stable internal environment in the face of high-glucose stress.Thus,Melatonin treatment holds some promise in preserving mesothelium integrity and in decreasing angiogenesis to protect peritoneum function in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis.
基金supported by grants from the National Nature Science Foundation of China(No.82070791,81670690,81470991,81200492 to N.L.No.82070700,81830021 to S.Z.)+7 种基金the Shanghai Scientific Committee of China(No.20ZR1445800,23ZR1452200,13PJ1406900to N.L.)the Outstanding Leaders Training Program of Pudong Health Bureau of Shanghai,China(No.PWR12021-02 to N.L.)the Shanghai Health Bureau and Shanghai Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine of China(No.ZHYY-ZXYJHZX-202114 to N.L.)the Project of Pudong Health Bureau of Shanghai,China(No.PW2021D-04,PWZxk2022-05,PWZxk2017-05 to N.L.)the Clinical Investigation Grant of Shanghai East Hospital,Shanghai,China(No.DFLC2022016 to N.L.)the Shanghai Sailing Program(China)(No.23YF1434700 to Y.s.)the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(No.2021M692436 to Y.S.)the Branch Grantof NationaKl ey R&D Programof China(No.2018YFA0108802 to S.Z.).
文摘CircRNAs,a novel type of endogenous non-coding RNAs(ncRNAs),are typically produced by back-splicing from exons of protein-coding genes,which are characterized by a covalently closed structure with neither 5'to 3'polarity nor a poly(A)tail.'On the one hand,circRNAs are involved in the regulation of a variety of important biological processes,such as apoptosis,proliferation,migration,and inflammatory responses.'On the other hand,the relationship between circRNAs and several fibrotic diseases has been reported.2 However.
基金the Cuiying Scientific and Technological Innovation Program of Lanzhou University Second Hospital,NO.CY2021-QNB09the Science and Technology Project of Gansu Province,NO.21JR11RA122+1 种基金Department of Education of Gansu Province:Innovation Fund Project,NO.2022B-056Gansu Province Clinical Research Center for Functional and Molecular Imaging,NO.21JR7RA438.
文摘BACKGROUND Diffusion-weighted imaging(DWI)has been developed to stage liver fibrosis.However,its diagnostic performance is inconsistent among studies.Therefore,it is worth studying the diagnostic value of various diffusion models for liver fibrosis in one cohort.AIM To evaluate the clinical potential of six diffusion-weighted models in liver fibrosis staging and compare their diagnostic performances.METHODS This prospective study enrolled 59 patients suspected of liver disease and scheduled for liver biopsy and 17 healthy participants.All participants underwent multi-b value DWI.The main DWI-derived parameters included Mono-apparent diffusion coefficient(ADC)from mono-exponential DWI,intravoxel incoherent motion model-derived true diffusion coefficient(IVIM-D),diffusion kurtosis imaging-derived apparent diffusivity(DKI-MD),stretched exponential model-derived distributed diffusion coefficient(SEM-DDC),fractional order calculus(FROC)model-derived diffusion coefficient(FROC-D)and FROC model-derived microstructural quantity(FROC-μ),and continuous-time random-walk(CTRW)model-derived anomalous diffusion coefficient(CTRW-D)and CTRW model-derived temporal diffusion heterogeneity index(CTRW-α).The correlations between DWI-derived parameters and fibrosis stages and the parameters’diagnostic efficacy in detecting significant fibrosis(SF)were assessed and compared.RESULTS CTRW-D(r=-0.356),CTRW-α(r=-0.297),DKI-MD(r=-0.297),FROC-D(r=-0.350),FROC-μ(r=-0.321),IVIM-D(r=-0.251),Mono-ADC(r=-0.362),and SEM-DDC(r=-0.263)were significantly correlated with fibrosis stages.The areas under the ROC curves(AUCs)of the combined index of the six models for distinguishing SF(0.697-0.747)were higher than each of the parameters alone(0.524-0.719).The DWI models’ability to detect SF was similar.The combined index of CTRW model parameters had the highest AUC(0.747).CONCLUSION The DWI models were similarly valuable in distinguishing SF in patients with liver disease.The combined index of CTRW parameters had the highest AUC.
文摘Introduction: Fibroscan is a recent, non-invasive and non-irradiating diagnostic method. It is based on the principle of ultrasound, which enables liver tissue elasticity to be quantified using a probe, and fibrosis to be assessed. Fibroscan measures both elasticity correlated with hepatic fibrosis and CAP correlated with steatosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate hepatic fibrosis and steatosis using pulse elastometry (Fibroscan/CAP). Methods: This was a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study in which 170 patients were included. It was conducted from October 1 2021 to December 31 2023, i.e. 27 months, in an outpatient clinic in the hepato-gastroenterology department of the Donka national hospital of the CHU Conakry. Results: Of the 170 patients identified, 87 were male (51%) and 83 female (49%), giving a M/F sex ratio of 1.04. The average age of our patients was 40. The 30 - 50 age group was the most affected, with a frequency of 58.23% (n = 99), followed by the 50 age group with a frequency of 29.41% (n = 50). Hepatomegaly, steatotic liver on ultrasonography, transaminase elevation and obesity were the main indications, respectively: (21.76%), (17.65%), (14.71%), and (13.53%). The examinations were requested by hepatogastroenterologists (47.06%), diabetologists (35.88%) and general practitioners (29%). Of the 170 patients, 100 patients (58.82%) had no significant fibrosis F0F1, 39 (22.94%) had moderate fibrosis F2, 20 patients (11.76%) had severe fibrosis F3 and 11 patients (6.47%) had fibrosis F4. Hepatic steatosis: 62 patients (36.47%) had no S0 steatosis;29.41% had S1 steatosis, 20% had S2 steatosis and 24 patients (14.11%) had S3 steatosis. Abdominal ultrasound revealed a normal liver in 67.05% of patients, hepatic steatosis in 29.41% and non-decompensated cirrhosis in 6 cases. Thus, 108 patients had the parameters required to calculate the Fatty Liver Index (FLI), steatosis was present in 20% of our patients, while 29.41% had an undetermined status and 24 14.11% had a normal FLI. Conclusion: Identifying subjects at risk of metabolic steatopathy, diagnosing and managing these patients is a public health issue and one of the future challenges of hepato-gastroenterology. Fibroscan is an increasingly popular screening tool for hepatic fibrosis and steatosis. The fight against obesity must be a priority.
基金Supported by the Project of Special Funds for Science and Technology Cooperation in Guizhou Provinces and Zunyi City,No.Shengshikehe(2015)53.
文摘The global spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 has resulted in a significant number of individuals developing pulmonary fibrosis(PF),an irreversible lung injury.This condition can manifest within a short inter-val following the onset of pneumonia symptoms,sometimes even within a few days.While lung transplantation is a potentially lifesaving procedure,its limited availability,high costs,intricate surgeries,and risk of immunological rejection present significant drawbacks.The optimal timing of medication administration for coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)-induced PF remains controversial.Despite this,it is crucial to explore pharmacotherapy interventions,involving early and preventative treatment as well as pharmacotherapy options for advanced-stage PF.Additionally,studies have demonstrated disparities in anti-fibrotic treatment based on race and gender factors.Genetic mutations may also impact therapeutic efficacy.Enhancing research efforts on pharmacotherapy interventions,while considering relevant pharmacological factors and optimizing the timing and dosage of medication administration,will lead to enhanced,personalized,and fair treatment for individuals impacted by COVID-19-related PF.These measures are crucial in lessening the burden of the disease on healthcare systems and improving patients'quality of life.
基金supported by the Research Fund of Jianghan University(grant number 2023KJZX23).
文摘Background:Lower urinary tract symptoms commonly occur in the elderly population and seriously constrain the quality of life.Glandular fibrosis is an important pathobiological process in benign prostatic hyperplasia and is also a main inducing factor for benign prostatic hyperplasia-associated lower urinary tract symptoms.Cistanches species is an important herbal medicine resource and is traditionally used in ameliorating renal and prostatic defects.Methods:This study was to investigate the potential protective function of echinacoside(a bioactive compound from Cistanches)against prostatic fibrosis in mice and human benign prostatic hyperplasia epithelial-1 cell models.Results:It was found that echinacoside attenuated testosterone-induced prostatic hyperplasia and collagen deposition in mice,relieved prostate local inflammation and oxidative damage,and ameliorated prostatic epithelial-mesenchymal transition.Additionally,echinacoside inhibited the activation of the MKK6/MK2 signaling pathway both in vivo and in vitro.Conclusion:This study added new evidence for the anti-fibrotic function of echinacoside on the prostate and provided new insights for understanding its possible pharmacological mechanisms.
基金This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.81874496,82374530)the Clinical Medical Technology Innovation Guide Project of Hunan Province(No.2020SK53206)+3 种基金the Natural Science Foundation of Hunan Province(No.2021JJ70062)the Changsha Natural Science Foundation Project(No.kq2014019)the Health Special Fund Research Project of Hunan Province(No.B2020-07)the Clinical Pharmaceutical Research Fund of Hunan Medical Association(No.B202012).
文摘Background:Puerarin(Pue)has been reported to be a natural active ingredient with multiple antifibrotic properties.This work aimed at exploring the function of Pue in oral submucousfibrosis(OSF)treatment.Methods:Human oral mucosafibroblasts(hOMF)were induced with transforming growth factor beta1(TGF-β1)and intervened with Pue.Expressions offibrosis-related markers were analyzed by Western blot and IF staining.Cell viability was characterized by the CCK-8 assay.Expressions of miR-30 family members were quantified by qRT-PCR.The correlation betweenfibroblast activation protein(FAP)and miR-30 family expression was evaluated by the Pearson correlation coefficient.Bioinformatics prediction and dual-luciferase reporter assay were employed to verify the regulation between FAP and miR-30b-5p.The specific mechanism of Pue on OSF was explored through the promotion or inhibition of miR-30b-5p.Results:After induction by TGF-β1,hOMF showed upregulated Collagen I,Collagen III,and FAP expressions,while miR-30 family expression was downregulated with miR-30b-5p being the most significant.Pue intervention inhibited the excessive proliferation of TGF-β1-induced hOMF,downregulated FAP,collagen type 3(COL3A1),collagen type 1(COL1A1),matrix metalloproteinase 1(MMP1),and matrix metalloproteinase 3(MMP3)expressions,and restored miR-30 family expression.Bioinformatics prediction and dual-luciferase reporter assay revealed that miR-30b-5p selectively inhibited FAP expression.Mechanistically,miR-30b-5p mimic suppressed the excessive proliferation of TGF-β1-induced hOMF and declinedfibrosis levels.Pue intervention significantly reversed the promotion of TGF-β1-induced OSF by miR-30b-5p inhibition.Conclusion:Pue mediated miR-30b-5p targeting FAP against OSF,which provided a theoretical basis for the pathogenesis research and Pue application in OSF.
文摘In the present issue of the World Journal of Hepatology,Ferrassi et al examine the problem of liver fibrosis staging in chronic hepatitis C.They identify novel biomarkers in an effort to predict accurate fibrosis staging with the aid of the metabolome of Hepatitis C patients.Overall I think Ferrassi et al took a different approach in identifying fibrosis biomarkers,by looking at the patients’metabolome.Their biomarkers clearly separate patients from controls.They can also separate out,patients with minimal fibrosis(F0-F1 stage)and patients with cirrhosis(F4 stage).Obviously,if these biomarkers were to be widely used,tests for all the important metabolites would need to be readily available for use in hospitals or outpatient setting and that may prove difficult and above all,costly.Nevertheless,this step could eventually lead to a metabolomic approach for novel biomarkers of Fibrosis.Obviously,it would need to be validated,but could represent a step towards the Holy Grail of Hepatology.
文摘The present letter to the editor is related to the study titled‘Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 improves liver fibrosis in mice by regulating autophagy of hepatic stellate cells’.Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 can alleviate liver fibrosis by regulating autophagy of hepatic stellate cells and affecting the renin-angiotensin system.
基金This research was funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82273919 to Zhang Y)the HMU Marshal Initiative Funding(HMUMIF-21022 to Zhang Y).
文摘Background:Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD)is a chronic condition characterized by a progressive decline in liver function,leading to disruptions in liver integrity and metabolic function,resulting in lipid deposition and excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix(ECM).The pathogenesis of NAFLD is complex and not yet fully understood,contributing to the absence of specific therapeutic strategies.Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma(PPARγ)is a ligand-activated transcription factor pivotal in regulating lipid and glucose metabolism.However,the impacts of PPARγon NAFLD remains insufficiently explored.Thus,this study aimed to investigate the role of PPARγin NAFLD and its underlying molecular mechanisms.Methods:Chemical detection kits were utilized to quantify collagen content,alanine aminotransferase(ALT),and aspartate aminotransferase(AST)level variations.Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(qRT-PCR)was employed to assess alterations in extracellular matrix-related genes and inflammatory response genes in liver tissue and HepG2 cells,while western blotting was conducted to analyze the levels of both PPARγand the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway.Results:Our findings unveiled significantly reduced PPARγexpression in a rat model of NAFLD,leading to subsequent activation of the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway.Furthermore,PPARγactivation effectively mitigated NAFLD progression by inhibiting inflammation and fibrosis-related gene expression and collagen production.On a cellular level,PPARγactivation was found to inhibit the expression of extracellular matrix-related genes such as matrix metalloproteinase 2(MMP2)and matrix metalloproteinase 9(MMP9),along with inflammatory response genes interleukin(IL)-1βand IL-6.Additionally,PPARγactivation led to a significant decrease in the levels of ALT and AST.At the molecular level,PPARγnotably down-regulated the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway,which is known to promote liver fibrosis.Conclusion:These groundbreaking findings underscore PPARγactivation as a promising therapeutic approach to delay NAFLD progression by targeting the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway in hepatic cells.This highlights the potential of PPARγas a promising therapeutic target for NAFLD management in clinical settings.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82205025,No.82374355 and No.82174293Subject of Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine,No.Y21023Forth Batch of Construction Program for Inheritance Office of Jiangsu Province Famous TCM Experts,No.[2021]7.
文摘BACKGROUND Development of end-stage renal disease is predominantly attributed to diabetic nephropathy(DN).Previous studies have indicated that myricetin possesses the potential to mitigate the pathological alterations observed in renal tissue.Never-theless,the precise molecular mechanism through which myricetin influences the progression of DN remains uncertain.AIM To investigate the effects of myricetin on DN and explore its potential therapeutic mechanism.METHODS Db/db mice were administered myricetin intragastrically on a daily basis at doses of 50 mg/kg or 100 mg/kg for a duration of 12 wk.Subsequently,blood and urine indexes were assessed,along with examination of renal tissue pathology.Kidney morphology and fibrosis were evaluated using various staining techniques including hematoxylin and eosin,periodic acid–Schiff,Masson’s trichrome,and Sirius-red.Additionally,high-glucose culturing was conducted on the RAW 264.7 cell line,treated with 25 mM myricetin or co-administered with the PI3K/Akt inhibitor LY294002 for a period of 24 h.In both in vivo and in vitro settings,quantification of inflammation factor levels was conducted using western blotting,real-time qPCR and ELISA.RESULTS In db/db mice,administration of myricetin led to a mitigating effect on DN-induced renal dysfunction and fibrosis.Notably,we observed a significant reduction in expressions of the kidney injury markers kidney injury molecule-1 and neutrophil gelatinase associated lipocalin,along with a decrease in expressions of inflammatory cytokine-related factors.Furthermore,myricetin treatment effectively inhibited the up-regulation of tumor necrosis factor-alpha,interleukin-6,and interluekin-1βinduced by high glucose in RAW 264.7 cells.Additionally,myricetin modulated the M1-type polarization of the RAW 264.7 cells.Molecular docking and bioinformatic analyses revealed Akt as the target of myricetin.The protective effect of myricetin was nullified upon blocking the polarization of RAW 264.7 via inhibition of PI3K/Akt activation using LY294002.CONCLUSION This study demonstrated that myricetin effectively mitigates kidney injury in DN mice through the regulation of macrophage polarization via the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.
基金This study was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82330011,82170299,81900225)the Scientific Fund Project of Heilongjiang Province(JQ2022H001)the CAMS Innovation Fund for Medical Sciences(CIFMS,2019-I2M-5-078).
文摘Background and Objective:Cardiac fibrosis is a pathological reparative process that follows myocardial infarctionand is associated with compromised cardiac systolic and reduced cardiac compliance.The Wnt signaling pathway is closely implicated in organ fibrosis,and Notum,a highly conserved secreted inhibitor,modulates Wnt signaling.The objective of this study was to explore the role and mechanism of Notum in cardiac fibrosis.Methods:A mouse model of cardiac remodeling was established through left coronary artery ligation surgery,with the addition of Notum injection following myocardial infarction surgery.The protective effect of Notum on myocardial infarction was assessed by evaluating cardiac function,including survival rate,echocardiographic assessment,and cardiac contraction analyses.Inflammatory cell necrosis and infiltration were confirmed through H&E and Masson staining.The expression of fibrosis-related genes andβ-catenin pathway markers was detected using Western blot quantificational RT-PCR(qRT-PCR).Additionally,EdU,wound healing,and immunofluorescence staining analyses were performed to detect the effect of Notum's in transforming growth factor beta-1(TGF-β1)induced myofibroblast transformation.Results:The administration of Notum treatment resulted in enhanced survival rates,improved cardiac function,and decreased necrosis and infiltration of inflammatory cells in mice subjected to left coronary artery ligation.Furthermore,Notum effectively impeded the senescence of cardiac fibroblasts and hindered their pathological transformation into cardiac fibroblasts.Additionally,it significantly reduced collagen production and attenuated the activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway.Our preliminary investigations successfully demonstrated the therapeutic potential of Notum in both fibroblasts in vitro and in a mouse model of myocardial infarction-induced cardiac fibrosis in vivo.Conclusion:Notum inhibition of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and cardiac fibroblast senescence ultimately hampers the onset of cardiac fibrosis.Our findings suggest that Notum could represent a new therapeutic strategy for the treatment of cardiac fibrosis.
基金This work was supported by the Hunan Provincial Education Department General Project Research Fund(No.20C1412)the Hunan Graduate Scientific Research Innovation Project(No.CX2018B474)the National Famous Elderly Chinese Medicine Experts Xinyu Chen Inheritance Workshop Construction Project(No.[2022]75).
文摘Background:Renalfibrosis is an important process in the development of chronic kidney disease.Understanding the pathogenesis andfinding effective treatments for renalfibrosis is crucial.This study aims to investigate whether a newly discovered long non-coding RNA(lncRNA)called LOC103694972 could be a potential target for treatingfibrosis of NRK-49F cells.Methods:LncRNA Chip was used to identify differentially expressed lncRNAs between TGF-β1-induced NRK-49F cells and normal cells.The dual-luciferase assay confirmed the binding between miR-29c-3p and signal transducer and activator of transcription(STAT3),as well as between miR-29c-3p and lncRNA LOC103694972.Si-LOC103694972 and miR-29c-3p mimic were then transfected into TGF-β1-induced NRK-49F cells.Results:The study found that LOC103694972 was highly expressed in TGF-β1-induced NRK-49F cells.These cells exhibited increased cell length and activity compared to the control group.The expression levels of Collagen I,α-Smooth muscle actin(α-SMA),and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase(TIMP-1)were increased,while matrix Metalloproteinase 2(MMP2)and matrix Metalloproteinase 9(MMP9)expression was decreased.However,transfection with si-LOC103694972 and miR-29c-3p mimics restored cell morphology and reduced cell viability.This led to a decrease in the levels of Collagen I,α-SMA,and TIMP-1,as well as an increase in MMP2 and MMP9 expression.Additionally,TGF-β1-induced NRK-49F cells transfected with miR-29c-3p mimics activated the STAT3-Smad3/CTGF pathway.Conclusion:Based on thesefindings,lncRNA LOC103694972 shows promise as a target for treating renalfibrosis.It negatively regulates miR-29c-3p and activates the STAT3-Smad3/CTGF pathway.
