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Int. J. Mol. Sci., Volume 18, Issue 11 (November 2017) – 269 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): Nitric oxide (NO) and its downstream cGMP-activated pathway have been established as important elements in maintaining high-fidelity synaptic transmission under strong stimulation. NO generated post-synaptically by a neuronal NO synthase (nNOS) can diffuse to the presynaptic terminal triggering the synthesis of cGMP by the soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC). Then, cGMP activates the cGMP-dependent protein kinases (cGKs) that regulate the synaptic vesicle exoendocytic cycle and transmitter release. View this paper
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573 KiB  
Review
A Mini-Review of the NADPH Oxidases in Vascular Dementia: Correlation with NOXs and Risk Factors for VaD
by Dong-Hee Choi and Jongmin Lee
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(11), 2500; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18112500 - 22 Nov 2017
Cited by 24 | Viewed by 6275
Abstract
Oxidative stress (OS) is one of the factors that cause dementia conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia (VaD). In the pathogenesis of VaD, OS is associated with risk factors that include increased age, hypertension, and stroke. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) [...] Read more.
Oxidative stress (OS) is one of the factors that cause dementia conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia (VaD). In the pathogenesis of VaD, OS is associated with risk factors that include increased age, hypertension, and stroke. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidases (NOXs) are a molecular source of reactive oxygen species (ROS). According to recent studies, inhibition of NOX activity can reduce cognitive impairment in animal models of VaD. In this article, we review the evidence linking cognitive impairment with NOX-dependent OS, including the vascular NOX and non-vascular NOX systems, in VaD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Oxidative Stress in Vascular Diseases)
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Editorial
Metabolic Epilepsies—Commemorative Issue in Honor of Professor Uwe Heinemann
by Richard Kovács and Wolfram S. Kunz
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(11), 2499; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18112499 - 22 Nov 2017
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 3296
Abstract
Epilepsy is a very frequent, severe, and disabling neurological disorder with has a considerable disease burden worldwide [...]
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Article
miRNome Profiling in Bicuspid Aortic Valve-Associated Aortopathy by Next-Generation Sequencing
by Andrea Borghini, Ilenia Foffa, Silvia Pulignani, Cecilia Vecoli, Lamia Ait-Ali and Maria Grazia Andreassi
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(11), 2498; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18112498 - 22 Nov 2017
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3982
Abstract
The molecular mechanisms underlying thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) in patients with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) are incompletely characterized. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) may play a major role in the different pathogenesis of aortopathy. We sought to employ next-generation sequencing to analyze the entire miRNome in [...] Read more.
The molecular mechanisms underlying thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) in patients with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) are incompletely characterized. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) may play a major role in the different pathogenesis of aortopathy. We sought to employ next-generation sequencing to analyze the entire miRNome in TAA tissue from patients with BAV and tricuspid aortic valve (TAV). In the discovery stage, small RNA sequencing was performed using the Illumina MiSeq platform in 13 TAA tissue samples (seven patients with BAV and six with TAV). Gene ontology (GO) and KEGG pathway analysis were used to identify key pathways and biological functions. Validation analysis was performed by qRT-PCR in an independent cohort of 30 patients with BAV (26 males; 59.5 ± 12 years) and 30 patients with TAV (16 males; 68.5 ± 9.5 years). Bioinformatic analysis identified a total of 489 known mature miRNAs and five novel miRNAs. Compared to TAV samples, 12 known miRNAs were found to be differentially expressed in BAV, including two up-regulated and 10 down-regulated (FDR-adjusted p-value ≤ 0.05 and fold change ≥  1.5). GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis (FDR-adjusted p-value < 0.05) identified different target genes and pathways linked to BAV and aneurysm formation, including Hippo signaling pathway, ErbB signaling, TGF-beta signaling and focal adhesion. Validation analysis of selected miRNAs confirmed the significant down-regulation of miR-424-3p (p = 0.01) and miR-3688-3p (p = 0.03) in BAV patients as compared to TAV patients. Our study provided the first in-depth screening of the whole miRNome in TAA specimens and identified specific dysregulated miRNAs in BAV patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Pathology, Diagnostics, and Therapeutics)
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Article
Quercetin Mitigates Inflammatory Responses Induced by Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor in Mouse Retinal Photoreceptor Cells through Suppression of Nuclear Factor Kappa B
by Minsup Lee, Seohyeon Yun, Hyesook Lee and Jaewook Yang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(11), 2497; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18112497 - 22 Nov 2017
Cited by 40 | Viewed by 5397
Abstract
Retinal vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) increased by neovascularization is well known as a pathogenic factor in ocular neovascular diseases. However, it is still unclear how retinal neurons are damaged by VEGF. The aims of this study are to demonstrate the inflammatory protein [...] Read more.
Retinal vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) increased by neovascularization is well known as a pathogenic factor in ocular neovascular diseases. However, it is still unclear how retinal neurons are damaged by VEGF. The aims of this study are to demonstrate the inflammatory protein expression regulated by VEGF using mouse photoreceptor-derived cells and the protective effect of quercetin against VEGF-induced inflammatory response. Expression and phosphorylation of protein and expression of mRNA were detected by immunoblot and reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. VEGF-induced degradation of limiting membrane and translocation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) were analyzed by immunocytochemistry. VEGF treatment activated angiogenic signaling pathway in photoreceptor cells. In addition, adhesion molecules and matrix metalloproteinases were increased in VEGF-treated photoreceptor cells. All these events were reversed by quercetin. Zona occludins-1 and β-catenin decreased by VEGF were recovered by quercetin. NF-κB signaling pathway regulated by VEGF through phosphorylations of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) and protein kinase B (Akt) was suppressed by quercetin. These results suggest that quercetin suppressed VEGF-induced excessive inflammatory response in retinal photoreceptor cells by inactivation of NF-κB signals through inhibition of MAPKs and Akt. These data may provide a basic information for development of pharmaceuticals or nutraceuticals for treatment of retinal diseases caused by excessive VEGF. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biochemistry)
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Review
MicroRNAs Associated with Von Hippel–Lindau Pathway in Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Comprehensive Review
by Lisa-Maria Schanza, Maximilian Seles, Michael Stotz, Johannes Fosselteder, Georg C. Hutterer, Martin Pichler and Verena Stiegelbauer
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(11), 2495; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18112495 - 22 Nov 2017
Cited by 39 | Viewed by 7373
Abstract
Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) are the most common renal neoplasia and can be divided into three main histologic subtypes, among which clear cell RCC is by far the most common form of kidney cancer. Despite substantial advances over the last decade in the [...] Read more.
Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) are the most common renal neoplasia and can be divided into three main histologic subtypes, among which clear cell RCC is by far the most common form of kidney cancer. Despite substantial advances over the last decade in the understanding of RCC biology, surgical treatments, and targeted and immuno-therapies in the metastatic setting, the prognosis for advanced RCC patients remains poor. One of the major problems with RCC treatment strategies is inherent or acquired resistance towards therapeutic agents over time. The discovery of microRNAs (miRNAs), a class of small, non-coding, single-stranded RNAs that play a crucial role in post-transcriptional regulation, has added new dimensions to the development of novel diagnostic and treatment tools. Because of an association between Von Hippel–Lindau (VHL) genes with chromosomal loss in 3p25-26 and clear cell RCC, miRNAs have attracted considerable scientific interest over the last years. The loss of VHL function leads to constitutional activation of the hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) pathway and to consequent expression of numerous angiogenic and carcinogenic factors. Since miRNAs represent key players of carcinogenesis, tumor cell invasion, angiogenesis, as well as in development of metastases in RCC, they might serve as potential therapeutic targets. Several miRNAs are already known to be dysregulated in RCC and have been linked to biological processes involved in tumor angiogenesis and response to anti-cancer therapies. This review summarizes the role of different miRNAs in RCC angiogenesis and their association with the VHL gene, highlighting their potential role as novel drug targets. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Regulation by Non-coding RNAs)
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Review
Proteinase-Activated Receptor 2 May Drive Cancer Progression by Facilitating TGF-β Signaling
by Hendrik Ungefroren, David Witte, Bernhard H. Rauch, Utz Settmacher, Hendrik Lehnert, Frank Gieseler and Roland Kaufmann
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(11), 2494; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18112494 - 22 Nov 2017
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 7737
Abstract
The G protein-coupled receptor proteinase-activated receptor 2 (PAR2) has been implicated in various aspects of cellular physiology including inflammation, obesity and cancer. In cancer, it usually acts as a driver of cancer progression in various tumor types by promoting invasion and metastasis in [...] Read more.
The G protein-coupled receptor proteinase-activated receptor 2 (PAR2) has been implicated in various aspects of cellular physiology including inflammation, obesity and cancer. In cancer, it usually acts as a driver of cancer progression in various tumor types by promoting invasion and metastasis in response to activation by serine proteinases. Recently, we discovered another mode through which PAR2 may enhance tumorigenesis: crosstalk with transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling to promote TGF-β1-induced cell migration/invasion and invasion-associated gene expression in ductal pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cells. In this chapter, we review what is known about the cellular TGF-β responses and signaling pathways affected by PAR2 expression, the signaling activities of PAR2 required for promoting TGF-β signaling, and the potential molecular mechanism(s) that underlie(s) the TGF-β signaling–promoting effect. Since PAR2 is activated through various serine proteinases and biased agonists, it may couple TGF-β signaling to a diverse range of other physiological processes that may or may not predispose cells to cancer development such as local inflammation, systemic coagulation and pathogen infection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cancer-Driver G Protein-Coupled Receptors as Therapeutic Targets)
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Review
The Role of Glucagon-Like Peptide 1 (GLP1) in Type 3 Diabetes: GLP-1 Controls Insulin Resistance, Neuroinflammation and Neurogenesis in the Brain
by Choon Sang Bae and Juhyun Song
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(11), 2493; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18112493 - 22 Nov 2017
Cited by 49 | Viewed by 7825
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD), characterized by the aggregation of amyloid-β (Aβ) protein and neuroinflammation, is the most common neurodegenerative disease globally. Previous studies have reported that some AD patients show impaired glucose utilization in brain, leading to cognitive decline. Recently, diabetes-induced dementia has been [...] Read more.
Alzheimer’s disease (AD), characterized by the aggregation of amyloid-β (Aβ) protein and neuroinflammation, is the most common neurodegenerative disease globally. Previous studies have reported that some AD patients show impaired glucose utilization in brain, leading to cognitive decline. Recently, diabetes-induced dementia has been called “type 3 diabetes”, based on features in common with those of type 2 diabetes and the progression of AD. Impaired glucose uptake and insulin resistance in the brain are important issues in type 3 diabetes, because these problems ultimately aggravate memory dysfunction in the brain. Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) has been known to act as a critical controller of the glucose metabolism. Several studies have demonstrated that GLP-1 alleviates learning and memory dysfunction by enhancing the regulation of glucose in the AD brain. However, the specific actions of GLP-1 in the AD brain are not fully understood. Here, we review evidences related to the role of GLP-1 in type 3 diabetes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Pathology, Diagnostics, and Therapeutics)
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Article
Argan Oil as an Effective Nutri-Therapeutic Agent in Metabolic Syndrome: A Preclinical Study
by Adil El Midaoui, Youssef Haddad, Younes Filali-Zegzouti and Réjean Couture
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(11), 2492; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18112492 - 22 Nov 2017
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 6089
Abstract
The present study aims at examining the effects of argan oil on the three main cardiovascular risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome (hypertension, insulin resistance and obesity) and on one of its main complications, neuropathic pain. Male Sprague-Dawley rats had free access to [...] Read more.
The present study aims at examining the effects of argan oil on the three main cardiovascular risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome (hypertension, insulin resistance and obesity) and on one of its main complications, neuropathic pain. Male Sprague-Dawley rats had free access to a drinking solution containing 10% d-glucose or tap water for 12 weeks. The effect of argan oil was compared to that of corn oil given daily by gavage during 12 weeks in glucose-fed rats. Glucose-fed rats showed increases in systolic blood pressure, epididymal fat, plasma levels of triglycerides, leptin, glucose and insulin, insulin resistance, tactile and cold allodynia in association with a rise in superoxide anion production and NADPH oxidase activity in the thoracic aorta, epididymal fat and gastrocnemius muscle. Glucose-fed rats also showed rises in B1 receptor protein expression in aorta and gastrocnemius muscle. Argan oil prevented or significantly reduced all those anomalies with an induction in plasma adiponectin levels. In contrast, the same treatment with corn oil had a positive impact only on triglycerides, leptin, adiponectin and insulin resistance. These data are the first to suggest that argan oil is an effective nutri-therapeutic agent to prevent the cardiovascular risk factors and complications associated with metabolic syndrome. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Beneficial Effects of Plant Oil on Human Health)
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Article
Nitric Oxide Mediates Crosstalk between Interleukin 1β and WNT Signaling in Primary Human Chondrocytes by Reducing DKK1 and FRZB Expression
by Leilei Zhong, Stefano Schivo, Xiaobin Huang, Jeroen Leijten, Marcel Karperien and Janine N. Post
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(11), 2491; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18112491 - 22 Nov 2017
Cited by 28 | Viewed by 5469
Abstract
Interleukin 1 beta (IL1β) and Wingless-Type MMTV Integration Site Family (WNT) signaling are major players in Osteoarthritis (OA) pathogenesis. Despite having a large functional overlap in OA onset and development, the mechanism of IL1β and WNT crosstalk has remained largely unknown. In this [...] Read more.
Interleukin 1 beta (IL1β) and Wingless-Type MMTV Integration Site Family (WNT) signaling are major players in Osteoarthritis (OA) pathogenesis. Despite having a large functional overlap in OA onset and development, the mechanism of IL1β and WNT crosstalk has remained largely unknown. In this study, we have used a combination of computational modeling and molecular biology to reveal direct or indirect crosstalk between these pathways. Specifically, we revealed a mechanism by which IL1β upregulates WNT signaling via downregulating WNT antagonists, DKK1 and FRZB. In human chondrocytes, IL1β decreased the expression of Dickkopf-1 (DKK1) and Frizzled related protein (FRZB) through upregulation of nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), thereby activating the transcription of WNT target genes. This effect could be reversed by iNOS inhibitor 1400W, which restored DKK1 and FRZB expression and their inhibitory effect on WNT signaling. In addition, 1400W also inhibited both the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expression and cytokine-induced apoptosis. We concluded that iNOS/NO play a pivotal role in the inflammatory response of human OA through indirect upregulation of WNT signaling. Blocking NO production may inhibit the loss of the articular phenotype in OA by preventing downregulation of the expression of DKK1 and FRZB. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research of Pathogenesis and Novel Therapeutics in Arthritis)
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Review
Nitroxides as Antioxidants and Anticancer Drugs
by Marcin Lewandowski and Krzysztof Gwozdzinski
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(11), 2490; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18112490 - 22 Nov 2017
Cited by 80 | Viewed by 8821
Abstract
Nitroxides are stable free radicals that contain a nitroxyl group with an unpaired electron. In this paper, we present the properties and application of nitroxides as antioxidants and anticancer drugs. The mostly used nitroxides in biology and medicine are a group of heterocyclic [...] Read more.
Nitroxides are stable free radicals that contain a nitroxyl group with an unpaired electron. In this paper, we present the properties and application of nitroxides as antioxidants and anticancer drugs. The mostly used nitroxides in biology and medicine are a group of heterocyclic nitroxide derivatives of piperidine, pyrroline and pyrrolidine. The antioxidant action of nitroxides is associated with their redox cycle. Nitroxides, unlike other antioxidants, are characterized by a catalytic mechanism of action associated with a single electron oxidation and reduction reaction. In biological conditions, they mimic superoxide dismutase (SOD), modulate hemoprotein’s catalase-like activity, scavenge reactive free radicals, inhibit the Fenton and Haber-Weiss reactions and suppress the oxidation of biological materials (peptides, proteins, lipids, etc.). The use of nitroxides as antioxidants against oxidative stress induced by anticancer drugs has also been investigated. The application of nitroxides and their derivatives as anticancer drugs is discussed in the contexts of breast, hepatic, lung, ovarian, lymphatic and thyroid cancers under in vivo and in vitro experiments. In this article, we focus on new natural spin-labelled derivatives such as camptothecin, rotenone, combretastatin, podophyllotoxin and others. The applications of nitroxides in the aging process, cardiovascular disease and pathological conditions were also discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inflammaging and Oxidative Stress in Aging and Age-Related Disorders)
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Article
Identification and Initial Characterization of the Effectors of an Anther Smut Fungus and Potential Host Target Proteins
by Venkata S. Kuppireddy, Vladimir N. Uversky, Su San Toh, Ming-Chang Tsai, William C. Beckerson, Catarina Cahill, Brittany Carman and Michael H. Perlin
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(11), 2489; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18112489 - 22 Nov 2017
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 5571
Abstract
(1) Background: Plant pathogenic fungi often display high levels of host specificity and biotrophic fungi; in particular, they must manipulate their hosts to avoid detection and to complete their obligate pathogenic lifecycles. One important strategy of such fungi is the secretion of small [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Plant pathogenic fungi often display high levels of host specificity and biotrophic fungi; in particular, they must manipulate their hosts to avoid detection and to complete their obligate pathogenic lifecycles. One important strategy of such fungi is the secretion of small proteins that serve as effectors in this process. Microbotryum violaceum is a species complex whose members infect members of the Caryophyllaceae; M. lychnidis-dioicae, a parasite on Silene latifolia, is one of the best studied interactions. We are interested in identifying and characterizing effectors of the fungus and possible corresponding host targets; (2) Methods: In silico analysis of the M. lychnidis-dioicae genome and transcriptomes allowed us to predict a pool of small secreted proteins (SSPs) with the hallmarks of effectors, including a lack of conserved protein family (PFAM) domains and also localized regions of disorder. Putative SSPs were tested for secretion using a yeast secretion trap method. We then used yeast two-hybrid analyses for candidate-secreted effectors to probe a cDNA library from a range of growth conditions of the fungus, including infected plants; (3) Results: Roughly 50 SSPs were identified by in silico analysis. Of these, 4 were studied further and shown to be secreted, as well as examined for potential host interactors. One of the putative effectors, MVLG_01732, was found to interact with Arabidopsis thaliana calcium-dependent lipid binding protein (AtCLB) and with cellulose synthase interactive protein 1 orthologues; and (4) Conclusions: The identification of a pool of putative effectors provides a resource for functional characterization of fungal proteins that mediate the delicate interaction between pathogen and host. The candidate targets of effectors, e.g., AtCLB, involved in pollen germination suggest tantalizing insights that could drive future studies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Microbe Interaction 2017)
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Article
Extracellular Vesicles Released by Oxidatively Injured or Intact C2C12 Myotubes Promote Distinct Responses Converging toward Myogenesis
by Michele Guescini, Serena Maggio, Paola Ceccaroli, Michela Battistelli, Giosuè Annibalini, Giovanni Piccoli, Piero Sestili and Vilberto Stocchi
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(11), 2488; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18112488 - 22 Nov 2017
Cited by 33 | Viewed by 7341
Abstract
Myogenic differentiation is triggered, among other situations, in response to muscle damage for regenerative purposes. It has been shown that during myogenic differentiation, myotubes release extracellular vesicles (EVs) which participate in the signalling pattern of the microenvironment. Here we investigated whether EVs released [...] Read more.
Myogenic differentiation is triggered, among other situations, in response to muscle damage for regenerative purposes. It has been shown that during myogenic differentiation, myotubes release extracellular vesicles (EVs) which participate in the signalling pattern of the microenvironment. Here we investigated whether EVs released by myotubes exposed or not to mild oxidative stress modulate the behaviour of targeted differentiating myoblasts and macrophages to promote myogenesis. We found that EVs released by oxidatively challenged myotubes (H2O2-EVs) are characterized by an increased loading of nucleic acids, mainly DNA. In addition, incubation of myoblasts with H2O2-EVs resulted in a significant decrease of myotube diameter, myogenin mRNA levels and myosin heavy chain expression along with an upregulation of proliferating cell nuclear antigen: these effects collectively lead to an increase of recipient myoblast proliferation. Notably, the EVs from untreated myotubes induced an opposite trend in myoblasts, that is, a slight pro-differentiation effect. Finally, H2O2-EVs were capable of eliciting an increased interleukin 6 mRNA expression in RAW264.7 macrophages. Notably, this is the first demonstration that myotubes communicate with surrounding macrophages via EV release. Collectively, the data reported herein suggest that myotubes, depending on their conditions, release EVs carrying differential signals which could contribute to finely and coherently orchestrate the muscle regeneration process. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biochemistry)
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Case Report
Fast Detection of a BRCA2 Large Genomic Duplication by Next Generation Sequencing as a Single Procedure: A Case Report
by Marcella Nunziato, Flavio Starnone, Barbara Lombardo, Matilde Pensabene, Caterina Condello, Francesco Verdesca, Chiara Carlomagno, Sabino De Placido, Lucio Pastore, Francesco Salvatore and Valeria D’Argenio
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(11), 2487; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18112487 - 22 Nov 2017
Cited by 25 | Viewed by 4599
Abstract
The aim of this study was to verify the reliability of a next generation sequencing (NGS)-based method as a strategy to detect all possible BRCA mutations, including large genomic rearrangements. Genomic DNA was obtained from a peripheral blood sample provided by a patient [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to verify the reliability of a next generation sequencing (NGS)-based method as a strategy to detect all possible BRCA mutations, including large genomic rearrangements. Genomic DNA was obtained from a peripheral blood sample provided by a patient from Southern Italy with early onset breast cancer and a family history of diverse cancers. BRCA molecular analysis was performed by NGS, and sequence data were analyzed using two software packages. Comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) array was used as confirmatory method. A novel large duplication, involving exons 4–26, of BRCA2 was directly detected in the patient by NGS workflow including quantitative analysis of copy number variants. The duplication observed was also found by CGH array, thus confirming its extent. Large genomic rearrangements can affect the BRCA1/2 genes, and thus contribute to germline predisposition to familial breast and ovarian cancers. The frequency of these mutations could be underestimated because of technical limitations of several routinely used molecular analysis, while their evaluation should be included also in these molecular testing. The NGS-based strategy described herein is an effective procedure to screen for all kinds of BRCA mutations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biochemistry)
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Article
Alterations in Rat Accumbens Endocannabinoid and GABA Content during Fentanyl Treatment: The Role of Ghrelin
by Magdalena Sustkova-Fiserova, Chrysostomos Charalambous, Tereza Havlickova, Marek Lapka, Pavel Jerabek, Nina Puskina and Kamila Syslova
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(11), 2486; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18112486 - 22 Nov 2017
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 6067
Abstract
The opioid-induced rise of extracellular dopamine, endocannabinoid anandamide and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) concentrations triggered by opioids in the nucleus accumbens shell (NACSh) most likely participate in opioid reward. We have previously demonstrated that systemic administration of ghrelin antagonist (JMV2959) significantly decreased morphine-induced dopamine [...] Read more.
The opioid-induced rise of extracellular dopamine, endocannabinoid anandamide and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) concentrations triggered by opioids in the nucleus accumbens shell (NACSh) most likely participate in opioid reward. We have previously demonstrated that systemic administration of ghrelin antagonist (JMV2959) significantly decreased morphine-induced dopamine and anandamide (N-arachidonoylethanolamine, AEA) increase in the NACSh. Fentanyl is considered as a µ-receptor-selective agonist. The aim of this study was to test whether JMV2959, a growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R1A) antagonist, can influence the fentanyl-induced effects on anandamide, 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and GABA in the NACSh and specify the involvement of GHS-R1A located in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and nucleus accumbens (NAC). Using in vivo microdialysis in rats, we have found that pre-treatment with JMV2959 reversed dose dependently fentanyl-induced anandamide increases in the NACSh, resulting in a significant AEA decrease and intensified fentanyl-induced decreases in accumbens 2-AG levels, with both JMV2959 effects more expressed when administered into the NACSh in comparison to the VTA. JMV2959 pre-treatment significantly decreased the fentanyl-evoked accumbens GABA efflux and reduced concurrently monitored fentanyl-induced behavioural stimulation. Our current data encourage further investigation to assess if substances affecting GABA or endocannabinoid concentrations and action, such as GHS-R1A antagonists, can be used to prevent opioid-seeking behaviour. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cannabinoid Signaling in Nervous System)
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Review
Understanding the Molecular Genetics of Basal Cell Carcinoma
by Cristina Pellegrini, Maria Giovanna Maturo, Lucia Di Nardo, Valeria Ciciarelli, Carlota Gutiérrez García-Rodrigo and Maria Concetta Fargnoli
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(11), 2485; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18112485 - 22 Nov 2017
Cited by 150 | Viewed by 12523
Abstract
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common human cancer and represents a growing public health care problem. Several tumor suppressor genes and proto-oncogenes have been implicated in BCC pathogenesis, including the key components of the Hedgehog pathway, PTCH1 and SMO, [...] Read more.
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common human cancer and represents a growing public health care problem. Several tumor suppressor genes and proto-oncogenes have been implicated in BCC pathogenesis, including the key components of the Hedgehog pathway, PTCH1 and SMO, the TP53 tumor suppressor, and members of the RAS proto-oncogene family. Aberrant activation of the Hedgehog pathway represents the molecular driver in basal cell carcinoma pathogenesis, with the majority of BCCs carrying somatic point mutations, mainly ultraviolet (UV)-induced, and/or copy-loss of heterozygosis in the PTCH1 gene. Recent advances in sequencing technology allowed genome-scale approaches to mutation discovery, identifying new genes and pathways potentially involved in BCC carcinogenesis. Mutational and functional analysis suggested PTPN14 and LATS1, both effectors of the Hippo–YAP pathway, and MYCN as new BCC-associated genes. In addition, emerging reports identified frequent non-coding mutations within the regulatory promoter sequences of the TERT and DPH3-OXNAD1 genes. Thus, it is clear that a more complex genetic network of cancer-associated genes than previously hypothesized is involved in BCC carcinogenesis, with a potential impact on the development of new molecular targeted therapies. This article reviews established knowledge and new hypotheses regarding the molecular genetics of BCC pathogenesis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Basal Cell Carcinoma)
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Article
Effects of Dl-3-n-butylphthalide on Cerebral Ischemia Infarction in Rat Model by Mass Spectrometry Imaging
by Run-Zhe Liu, Chao-Xin Fan, Zhi-Lin Zhang, Xin Zhao, Yi Sun, Hui-Hui Liu, Zong-Xiu Nie and Xiao-Ping Pu
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(11), 2451; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18112451 - 22 Nov 2017
Cited by 27 | Viewed by 6925
Abstract
Dl-3-n-butylphthalide (NBP) is a drug that is used in the treatment of ischaemic stroke. However, to the best of our knowledge, there are no systematic studies investigating the effects of dl-3-n-butylphtalide on the brain metabolism of small molecules. In this study, we first [...] Read more.
Dl-3-n-butylphthalide (NBP) is a drug that is used in the treatment of ischaemic stroke. However, to the best of our knowledge, there are no systematic studies investigating the effects of dl-3-n-butylphtalide on the brain metabolism of small molecules. In this study, we first investigated the effects of dl-3-n-butylphthalide on the spatial distribution of small molecules in the brains of rats with permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (pMCAO) using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI–TOF–MS) imaging. After pMCAO modelling or a sham operation, rats were given four mg/kg of dl-3-n-butylphthalide through the caudal vein or saline once a day for nine days. The degree of neurological deficit in rats was evaluated using the modified neurological severity score (mNSS). MALDI–TOF–MS imaging was used to observe the content and distribution of small molecules related to metabolism during focal cerebral ischaemia. Multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode with liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) was used to verify the results obtained from MALDI–TOF–MS imaging. These small molecules were found to be involved in glucose metabolism, ATP metabolism, the glutamate–glutamine cycle, malate aspartate shuttle, oxidative stress, and inorganic ion homeostasis. Of the 13 metabolites identified by MALDI–TOF–MS imaging, seven compounds, ATP, ADP, AMP, GMP, N-acetylaspartic acid, ascorbic acid and glutathione, were further validated by LC–MS/MS. Taken together, these results indicate that dl-3-n-butylphthalide significantly improved ATP metabolism, level of antioxidants, and sodium-potassium ion balance in a rat model of pMCAO. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biochemistry)
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Article
Antibody-Based Protective Immunity against Helminth Infections: Antibody Phage Display Derived Antibodies against BmR1 Antigen
by Anizah Rahumatullah, Izzati Zahidah Abdul Karim, Rahmah Noordin and Theam Soon Lim
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(11), 2376; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18112376 - 22 Nov 2017
Cited by 19 | Viewed by 4643
Abstract
Helminth parasite infections are significantly impacting global health, with more than two billion infections worldwide with a high morbidity rate. The complex life cycle of the nematodes has made host immune response studies against these parasites extremely difficult. In this study, we utilized [...] Read more.
Helminth parasite infections are significantly impacting global health, with more than two billion infections worldwide with a high morbidity rate. The complex life cycle of the nematodes has made host immune response studies against these parasites extremely difficult. In this study, we utilized two phage antibody libraries; the immune and naïve library were used to identify single chain fragment variable (scFv) clones against a specific filarial antigen (BmR1). The V-gene analysis of isolated scFv clones will help shed light on preferential VDJ gene segment usage against the filarial BmR1 antigen in healthy and infected states. The immune library showed the usage of both lambda and kappa light chains. However, the naïve library showed preferential use of the lambda family with different amino acid distributions. The binding characteristics of the scFv clones identified from this work were analyzed by immunoassay and immunoaffinity pull down of BmR1. The work highlights the antibody gene usage pattern of a naïve and immune antibody library against the same antigen as well as the robust nature of the enriched antibodies for downstream applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biochemistry)
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Article
Development of An Impedimetric Aptasensor for the Detection of Staphylococcus aureus
by Peggy Reich, Regina Stoltenburg, Beate Strehlitz, Dieter Frense and Dieter Beckmann
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(11), 2484; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18112484 - 21 Nov 2017
Cited by 57 | Viewed by 7312
Abstract
In combination with electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, aptamer-based biosensors are a powerful tool for fast analytical devices. Herein, we present an impedimetric aptasensor for the detection of the human pathogen Staphylococcus aureus. The used aptamer targets protein A, a surface bound virulence factor [...] Read more.
In combination with electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, aptamer-based biosensors are a powerful tool for fast analytical devices. Herein, we present an impedimetric aptasensor for the detection of the human pathogen Staphylococcus aureus. The used aptamer targets protein A, a surface bound virulence factor of S. aureus. The thiol-modified protein A-binding aptamer was co-immobilized with 6-mercapto-1-hexanol onto gold electrodes by self-assembly. Optimization of the ratio of aptamer to 6-mercapto-1-hexanol resulted in an average density of 1.01 ± 0.44 × 1013 aptamer molecules per cm2. As shown with quartz crystal microbalance experiments, the immobilized aptamer retained its functionality to bind recombinant protein A. Our impedimetric biosensor is based on the principle that binding of target molecules to the immobilized aptamer decreases the electron transfer between electrode and ferri-/ferrocyanide in solution, which is measured as an increase of impedance. Microscale thermophoresis measurements showed that addition of the redox probe ferri-/ferrocyanide has no influence on the binding of aptamer and its target. We demonstrated that upon incubation with various concentrations of S. aureus, the charge-transfer resistance increased proportionally. The developed biosensor showed a limit of detection of 10 CFU·mL−1 and results were available within 10 minutes. The biosensor is highly selective, distinguishing non-target bacteria such as Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus epidermidis. This work highlights the immense potential of impedimetric aptasensors for future biosensing applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aptamers)
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Review
Analgesic Mechanisms of Antidepressants for Neuropathic Pain
by Hideaki Obata
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(11), 2483; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18112483 - 21 Nov 2017
Cited by 218 | Viewed by 27515
Abstract
Tricyclic antidepressants and serotonin noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors are used to treat chronic pain, such as neuropathic pain. Why antidepressants are effective for treatment of neuropathic pain and the precise mechanisms underlying their effects, however, remain unclear. The inhibitory effects of these antidepressants for [...] Read more.
Tricyclic antidepressants and serotonin noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors are used to treat chronic pain, such as neuropathic pain. Why antidepressants are effective for treatment of neuropathic pain and the precise mechanisms underlying their effects, however, remain unclear. The inhibitory effects of these antidepressants for neuropathic pain manifest more quickly than their antidepressive effects, suggesting different modes of action. Recent studies of animal models of neuropathic pain revealed that noradrenaline is extremely important for the inhibition of neuropathic pain. First, increasing noradrenaline in the spinal cord by reuptake inhibition directly inhibits neuropathic pain through α2-adrenergic receptors. Second, increasing noradrenaline acts on the locus coeruleus and improves the function of an impaired descending noradrenergic inhibitory system. Serotonin and dopamine may reinforce the noradrenergic effects to inhibit neuropathic pain. The mechanisms of neuropathic pain inhibition by antidepressants based mainly on experimental findings from animal models of neuropathic pain are discussed in this review. Full article
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Review
Vitamin D and Neurological Diseases: An Endocrine View
by Carolina Di Somma, Elisabetta Scarano, Luigi Barrea, Volha V. Zhukouskaya, Silvia Savastano, Chiara Mele, Massimo Scacchi, Gianluca Aimaretti, Annamaria Colao and Paolo Marzullo
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(11), 2482; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18112482 - 21 Nov 2017
Cited by 104 | Viewed by 10409
Abstract
Vitamin D system comprises hormone precursors, active metabolites, carriers, enzymes, and receptors involved in genomic and non-genomic effects. In addition to classical bone-related effects, this system has also been shown to activate multiple molecular mediators and elicit many physiological functions. In vitro and [...] Read more.
Vitamin D system comprises hormone precursors, active metabolites, carriers, enzymes, and receptors involved in genomic and non-genomic effects. In addition to classical bone-related effects, this system has also been shown to activate multiple molecular mediators and elicit many physiological functions. In vitro and in vivo studies have, in fact, increasingly focused on the “non-calcemic” actions of vitamin D, which are associated with the maintenance of glucose homeostasis, cardiovascular morbidity, autoimmunity, inflammation, and cancer. In parallel, growing evidence has recognized that a multimodal association links vitamin D system to brain development, functions and diseases. With vitamin D deficiency reaching epidemic proportions worldwide, there is now concern that optimal levels of vitamin D in the bloodstream are also necessary to preserve the neurological development and protect the adult brain. The aim of this review is to highlight the relationship between vitamin D and neurological diseases. Full article
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Review
Role of Galectin-3 in Bone Cell Differentiation, Bone Pathophysiology and Vascular Osteogenesis
by Carla Iacobini, Claudia Blasetti Fantauzzi, Giuseppe Pugliese and Stefano Menini
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(11), 2481; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18112481 - 21 Nov 2017
Cited by 35 | Viewed by 9585
Abstract
Galectin-3 is expressed in various tissues, including the bone, where it is considered a marker of chondrogenic and osteogenic cell lineages. Galectin-3 protein was found to be increased in the differentiated chondrocytes of the metaphyseal plate cartilage, where it favors chondrocyte survival and [...] Read more.
Galectin-3 is expressed in various tissues, including the bone, where it is considered a marker of chondrogenic and osteogenic cell lineages. Galectin-3 protein was found to be increased in the differentiated chondrocytes of the metaphyseal plate cartilage, where it favors chondrocyte survival and cartilage matrix mineralization. It was also shown to be highly expressed in differentiating osteoblasts and osteoclasts, in concomitance with expression of osteogenic markers and Runt-related transcription factor 2 and with the appearance of a mature phenotype. Galectin-3 is expressed also by osteocytes, though its function in these cells has not been fully elucidated. The effects of galectin-3 on bone cells were also investigated in galectin-3 null mice, further supporting its role in all stages of bone biology, from development to remodeling. Galectin-3 was also shown to act as a receptor for advanced glycation endproducts, which have been implicated in age-dependent and diabetes-associated bone fragility. Moreover, its regulatory role in inflammatory bone and joint disorders entitles galectin-3 as a possible therapeutic target. Finally, galectin-3 capacity to commit mesenchymal stem cells to the osteoblastic lineage and to favor transdifferentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells into an osteoblast-like phenotype open a new area of interest in bone and vascular pathologies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Galectins in Cancer and Translational Medicine)
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Article
Altered Aconitase 2 Activity in Huntington’s Disease Peripheral Blood Cells and Mouse Model Striatum
by Chiung-Mei Chen, Yih-Ru Wu and Kuo-Hsuan Chang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(11), 2480; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18112480 - 21 Nov 2017
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4345
Abstract
Huntington’s disease (HD) is caused by an unstable cytosine adenine guanine (CAG) trinucleotide repeat expansion encoding a polyglutamine tract in the huntingtin protein. Previously, we identified several up- and down-regulated protein molecules in the striatum of the Hdh(CAG)150 knock-in mice at 16 [...] Read more.
Huntington’s disease (HD) is caused by an unstable cytosine adenine guanine (CAG) trinucleotide repeat expansion encoding a polyglutamine tract in the huntingtin protein. Previously, we identified several up- and down-regulated protein molecules in the striatum of the Hdh(CAG)150 knock-in mice at 16 months of age, a mouse model which is modeling the early human HD stage. Among those molecules, aconitase 2 (Aco2) located in the mitochondrial matrix is involved in the energy generation and susceptible to increased oxidative stress that would lead to inactivation of Aco2 activity. In this study, we demonstrate decreased Aco2 protein level and activity in the brain of both Hdh(CAG)150 and R6/2 mice. Aco2 activity was decreased in striatum of Hdh(CAG)150 mice at 16 months of age as well as R6/2 mice at 7 to 13 weeks of age. Aco2 activity in the striatum of R6/2 mice could be restored by the anti-oxidant, N-acetyl-l-cysteine, supporting that decreased Aco2 activity in HD is probably caused by increased oxidative damage. Decreased Aco2 activity was further found in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of both HD patients and pre-symptomatic HD mutation (PreHD) carriers, while the decreased Aco2 protein level of PBMC was only present in HD patients. Aco2 activity correlated significantly with motor score, independence scale, and functional capacity of the Unified Huntington’s Disease Rating Scale as well as disease duration. Our study provides a potential biomarker to assess the disease status of HD patients and PreHD carriers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Pathology, Diagnostics, and Therapeutics)
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Article
Ergostane-Type Sterols from King Trumpet Mushroom (Pleurotus eryngii) and Their Inhibitory Effects on Aromatase
by Takashi Kikuchi, Naoki Motoyashiki, Takeshi Yamada, Kanae Shibatani, Kiyofumi Ninomiya, Toshio Morikawa and Reiko Tanaka
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(11), 2479; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18112479 - 21 Nov 2017
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 6074
Abstract
Two new ergostane-type sterols; (22E)-5α,6α-epoxyergosta-8,14,22-triene-3β,7β-diol (1) and 5α,6α-epoxyergost-8(14)-ene-3β,7α-diol (2) were isolated from the fruiting bodies of king trumpet mushroom (Pleurotus eryngii), along with eight known compounds (310). All isolated [...] Read more.
Two new ergostane-type sterols; (22E)-5α,6α-epoxyergosta-8,14,22-triene-3β,7β-diol (1) and 5α,6α-epoxyergost-8(14)-ene-3β,7α-diol (2) were isolated from the fruiting bodies of king trumpet mushroom (Pleurotus eryngii), along with eight known compounds (310). All isolated compounds were evaluated for their inhibitory effects on aromatase. Among them, 4 and 6 exhibited comparable aromatase inhibitory activities to aminoglutethimide. Full article
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Article
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Sequestration Enhances In Vivo Cartilage Formation
by Carolina M. Medeiros Da Cunha, Valeria Perugini, Petra Bernegger, Matteo Centola, Andrea Barbero, Anna L. Guildford, Matteo Santin, Andrea Banfi, Ivan Martin and Anna Marsano
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(11), 2478; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18112478 - 21 Nov 2017
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4394
Abstract
Autologous chondrocyte transplantation for cartilage repair still has unsatisfactory clinical outcomes because of inter-donor variability and poor cartilage quality formation. Re-differentiation of monolayer-expanded human chondrocytes is not easy in the absence of potent morphogens. The Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) plays a master [...] Read more.
Autologous chondrocyte transplantation for cartilage repair still has unsatisfactory clinical outcomes because of inter-donor variability and poor cartilage quality formation. Re-differentiation of monolayer-expanded human chondrocytes is not easy in the absence of potent morphogens. The Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) plays a master role in angiogenesis and in negatively regulating cartilage growth by stimulating vascular invasion and ossification. Therefore, we hypothesized that its sole microenvironmental blockade by either VEGF sequestration by soluble VEGF receptor-2 (Flk-1) or by antiangiogenic hyperbranched peptides could improve chondrogenesis of expanded human nasal chondrocytes (NC) freshly seeded on collagen scaffolds. Chondrogenesis of several NC donors was assessed either in vitro or ectopically in nude mice. VEGF blockade appeared not to affect NC in vitro differentiation, whereas it efficiently inhibited blood vessel ingrowth in vivo. After 8 weeks, in vivo glycosaminoglycan deposition was approximately two-fold higher when antiangiogenic approaches were used, as compared to the control group. Our data indicates that the inhibition of VEGF signaling, independently of the specific implementation mode, has profound effects on in vivo NC chondrogenesis, even in the absence of chondroinductive signals during prior culture or at the implantation site. Full article
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Article
The Role of RNF213 4810G>A and 4950G>A Variants in Patients with Moyamoya Disease in Korea
by Young Seok Park, Hui Jeong An, Jung Oh Kim, Won Seop Kim, In Bo Han, Ok Joon Kim, Nam Keun Kim and Dong-Seok Kim
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(11), 2477; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18112477 - 21 Nov 2017
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 5103
Abstract
Although a founder variant of RNF213 4810G>A is a major genetic risk factor for moyamoya disease (MMD) in East Asians, the frequency and disease susceptibility of RNF213 variants remain largely unknown. This study investigated the mutation analysis of RNF213 (4448, 4810, 4863, and [...] Read more.
Although a founder variant of RNF213 4810G>A is a major genetic risk factor for moyamoya disease (MMD) in East Asians, the frequency and disease susceptibility of RNF213 variants remain largely unknown. This study investigated the mutation analysis of RNF213 (4448, 4810, 4863, and 4950) between Korean MMD and healthy controls. We performed a polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis. To identify the association between RNF213 gene polymorphisms and MMD disease, we performed statistical analyses such as multivariable logistic regression and Fisher’s exact test. Genetic data from 117 MMD patients were analyzed and compared with 253 healthy controls. We assessed and compared single nucleotide polymorphisms of RNF213 (4448, 4810, 4863, and 4950) between MMD and control groups. We performed genome-wide association studies to investigate the genetic pathophysiology of MMD. Among the RNF213 variants (4448G>A, 4810G>A, 4863G>A, and 4950G>A), RNF213 4810G>A and 4950G>A variants were more frequent in MMD patients. In a subgroup analysis, the RNF213 4810G>A was more frequent in moyamoya disease, and the comparison with GG+AA genotype was also significantly different in moyamoya patients. These results confirm that RNF213 4810G>A and RNF213 4950G>A were more frequent in MMD patients. We have confirmed that RNF213 4810G>A and 4950G>A are strongly associated with Korean MMD in children and adults as well as for the ischemic and hemorrhagic types. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Pathology, Diagnostics, and Therapeutics)
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Article
Effects of Red Palm Oil on Myocardial Antioxidant Enzymes, Nitric Oxide Synthase and Heart Function in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats
by Emma Katengua-Thamahane, Barbara Szeiffova Bacova, Iveta Bernatova, Matus Sykora, Vladimir Knezl, Jacques Van Rooyen and Narcis Tribulova
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(11), 2476; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18112476 - 21 Nov 2017
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4689
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of antioxidants rich red palm oil (RPO) supplementation on cardiac oxidative stress known as crucial factor deteriorating heart function in hypertension. 3-month-old, male spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and normotensive Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY) [...] Read more.
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of antioxidants rich red palm oil (RPO) supplementation on cardiac oxidative stress known as crucial factor deteriorating heart function in hypertension. 3-month-old, male spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and normotensive Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY) were fed standard rat chow without or with RPO (0.2 mL/day/5 weeks). General characteristic of rats were registered. Left ventricular tissue (LV) was used to determine expression of superoxide dismutases (SOD1, SOD2) and glutathione peroxidases (Gpx) as well as activity of nitric oxide synthase (NOS). Functional parameters of the heart were examined during basal conditions and at the early-phase of post-ischemic reperfusion using Langendorff-perfused system. RPO intake significantly reduced elevated blood pressure and total NOS activity as well as increased lowered expression of mitochondrial SOD2 in SHR hearts during basal condition. Moreover, RPO supplementation resulted in suppression of elevated heart rate, increase of reduced coronary flow and enhancement of systolic and diastolic heart function at the early-phase of post-ischemic reperfusion. It is concluded that SHR benefit from RPO intake due to decrease of blood pressure, amelioration of oxidative stress and protection of heart function that was deteriorated by post-ischemic reperfusion. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Beneficial Effects of Plant Oil on Human Health)
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Article
Effect of Different Skin Penetration Promoters in Halobetasol Propionate Permeation and Retention in Human Skin
by Paulina Carvajal-Vidal, Mireia Mallandrich, María Luisa García and Ana Cristina Calpena
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(11), 2475; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18112475 - 21 Nov 2017
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 8879
Abstract
Halobetasol propionate (HB) is a potent synthetic corticosteroid used against inflammatory skin diseases, such as dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis, among others. The aim of this study is to define how the presence of different skin penetration enhancers (nonane, menthone, limonene, azone, carene, decanol, [...] Read more.
Halobetasol propionate (HB) is a potent synthetic corticosteroid used against inflammatory skin diseases, such as dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis, among others. The aim of this study is to define how the presence of different skin penetration enhancers (nonane, menthone, limonene, azone, carene, decanol, linoleic acid and cetiol) affects the penetration and retention in skin of HB. To determine drug penetration through skin, 5% of each promoter was used in an ex vivo system with human skin on Franz cells. The results showed that the highest permeation occurs in the presence of menthone, followed by nonane. Permeation parameters were determined. The in vivo test was assessed, and the formulation containing HB-menthone presented better anti-inflammatory efficacy. These results are useful to generate a specific treatment according to each patient’s needs, and the inflammatory characteristics of the disease. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inflammatory Skin Conditions 2017)
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Article
Indole-3-Butyric Acid Induces Ectopic Formation of Metaxylem in the Hypocotyl of Arabidopsis thaliana without Conversion into Indole-3-Acetic Acid and with a Positive Interaction with Ethylene
by Laura Fattorini, Federica Della Rovere, Eleonora Andreini, Marilena Ronzan, Giuseppina Falasca and Maria Maddalena Altamura
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(11), 2474; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18112474 - 21 Nov 2017
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 4797
Abstract
The role of the auxins indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) and of the auxin-interacting phytohormone ethylene, on the ectopic formation of primary xylem (xylogenesis in planta) is still little known. In particular, auxin/ethylene-target tissue(s), modality of the xylary process (trans-differentiation vs. [...] Read more.
The role of the auxins indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) and of the auxin-interacting phytohormone ethylene, on the ectopic formation of primary xylem (xylogenesis in planta) is still little known. In particular, auxin/ethylene-target tissue(s), modality of the xylary process (trans-differentiation vs. de novo formation), and the kind of ectopic elements formed (metaxylem vs. protoxylem) are currently unknown. It is also unclear whether IBA may act on the process independently of conversion into IAA. To investigate these topics, histological analyses were carried out in the hypocotyls of Arabidopsis wild type seedlings and ech2ibr10 and ein3eil1 mutants, which are blocked in IBA-to-IAA conversion and ethylene signalling, respectively. The seedlings were grown under darkness with either IAA or IBA, combined or not with the ethylene precursor 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid. Adventitious root formation was also investigated because this process may compete with xylogenesis. Our results show that ectopic formation of protoxylem and metaxylem occurred as an indirect process starting from the pericycle periclinal derivatives of the hypocotyl basal part. IAA favoured protoxylem formation, whereas IBA induced ectopic metaxylem with ethylene cooperation through the EIN3EIL1 network. Ectopic metaxylem differentiation occurred independently of IBA-to-IAA conversion as mediated by ECH2 and IBR10, and in the place of IBA-induced adventitious root formation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Auxin)
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Article
GhMAP3K65, a Cotton Raf-Like MAP3K Gene, Enhances Susceptibility to Pathogen Infection and Heat Stress by Negatively Modulating Growth and Development in Transgenic Nicotiana benthamiana
by Na Zhai, Haihong Jia, Dongdong Liu, Shuchang Liu, Manli Ma, Xingqi Guo and Han Li
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(11), 2462; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18112462 - 21 Nov 2017
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 4462
Abstract
Mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinases (MAP3Ks), the top components of MAPK cascades, modulate many biological processes, such as growth, development and various environmental stresses. Nevertheless, the roles of MAP3Ks remain poorly understood in cotton. In this study, GhMAP3K65 was identified in cotton, and [...] Read more.
Mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinases (MAP3Ks), the top components of MAPK cascades, modulate many biological processes, such as growth, development and various environmental stresses. Nevertheless, the roles of MAP3Ks remain poorly understood in cotton. In this study, GhMAP3K65 was identified in cotton, and its transcription was inducible by pathogen infection, heat stress, and multiple signalling molecules. Silencing of GhMAP3K65 enhanced resistance to pathogen infection and heat stress in cotton. In contrast, overexpression of GhMAP3K65 enhanced susceptibility to pathogen infection and heat stress in transgenic Nicotiana benthamiana. The expression of defence-associated genes was activated in transgenic N. benthamiana plants after pathogen infection and heat stress, indicating that GhMAP3K65 positively regulates plant defence responses. Nevertheless, transgenic N. benthamiana plants impaired lignin biosynthesis and stomatal immunity in their leaves and repressed vitality of their root systems. In addition, the expression of lignin biosynthesis genes and lignin content were inhibited after pathogen infection and heat stress. Collectively, these results demonstrate that GhMAP3K65 enhances susceptibility to pathogen infection and heat stress by negatively modulating growth and development in transgenic N. benthamiana plants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Plant Sciences)
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Article
Akt1 Stimulates Homologous Recombination Repair of DNA Double-Strand Breaks in a Rad51-Dependent Manner
by Katharina Mueck, Simone Rebholz, Mozhgan Dehghan Harati, H. Peter Rodemann and Mahmoud Toulany
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(11), 2473; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18112473 - 20 Nov 2017
Cited by 34 | Viewed by 4669
Abstract
Akt1 is known to promote non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ)-mediated DNA double-strand break (DSB) repair by stimulation of DNA-PKcs. In the present study, we investigated the effect of Akt1 on homologous recombination (HR)-dependent repair of radiation-induced DSBs in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells A549 [...] Read more.
Akt1 is known to promote non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ)-mediated DNA double-strand break (DSB) repair by stimulation of DNA-PKcs. In the present study, we investigated the effect of Akt1 on homologous recombination (HR)-dependent repair of radiation-induced DSBs in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells A549 and H460. Akt1-knockdown (Akt1-KD) significantly reduced Rad51 protein level, Rad51 foci formation and its colocalization with γH2AX foci after irradiation. Moreover, Akt1-KD decreased clonogenicity after treatment with Mitomycin C and HR repair, as tested by an HR-reporter assay. Double knockdown of Akt1 and Rad51 did not lead to a further decrease in HR compared to the single knockdown of Rad51. Consequently, Akt1-KD significantly increased the number of residual DSBs after irradiation partially independent of the kinase activity of DNA-PKcs. Likewise, the number of residual BRCA1 foci, indicating unsuccessful HR events, also significantly increased in the irradiated cells after Akt1-KD. Together, the results of the study indicate that Akt1 seems to be a regulatory component in the HR repair of DSBs in a Rad51-dependent manner. Thus, based on this novel role of Akt1 in HR and the previously described role of Akt1 in NHEJ, we propose that targeting Akt1 could be an effective approach to selectively improve the killing of tumor cells by DSB-inducing cytotoxic agents, such as ionizing radiation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Pathology, Diagnostics, and Therapeutics)
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