Objective To evaluate the association of GGN repeat polymorphism of androgen receptor(AR)with ovarian reserve and ovarian response in controlled ovarian stimulation(COS).Methods This genetic association study was cond...Objective To evaluate the association of GGN repeat polymorphism of androgen receptor(AR)with ovarian reserve and ovarian response in controlled ovarian stimulation(COS).Methods This genetic association study was conducted among a total of 361 women aged≤40 years with basal FSH≤12 U/L undergoing the GnRH-agonist long protocol for COS in a university affiliated IVF center.GGN repeat in the AR gene was analyzed with Sanger sequencing.The primary endpoint was the number of antral follicle counts(AFCs),and the secondary endpoints were stimulation days,total dose of gonadotropin(Gn)used,total number of retrieved oocytes,ovarian sensitivity index,and follicular output rate.Results The GGN repeat in exon 1 of the AR gene ranged from 13 to 24,and the median repeat length was 22.Based on the genotypes(S for GGN repeats<22,L for GGN repeats≥22),the patients were divided into 3 groups:SS,SL,and LL.Generalized regression analysis indicated that the number of AFCs in group SS was significantly lower than those in group SL(adjusted β=1.8,95%CI:0.2-3.4,P=0.024)and group LL(adjusted β=1.5,95%CI:0.2-2.7,P=0.021).No significant difference was observed in the number of AFCs between group SL and group LL(P>0.05).Generalized regression analysis indicated no significant differences in ovarian stimulation parameters among the 3 groups,either before or after adjusting for confounding factors(P>0.05).Conclusion GGN repeat length on the AR gene is associated with AFC but not with ovarian response in Chinese women,indicating that AR gene polymorphisms may affect ovarian reserve.展开更多
OBJECTIVE Abnormal striatal dopaminergic and glutamatergic neurotransmis⁃sion is central to the pathophysiology of schizo⁃phrenia.In this study,we investigated the roles of M4 receptor interplay with D1 signaling in s...OBJECTIVE Abnormal striatal dopaminergic and glutamatergic neurotransmis⁃sion is central to the pathophysiology of schizo⁃phrenia.In this study,we investigated the roles of M4 receptor interplay with D1 signaling in stria⁃tal neurotransmission that affect glutamatergic transmission to control the etiology of neuropsy⁃chiatric disorders.METHODS To study dorsal striatum(DS)region-specific neuronal and behav⁃ioral responses modulated by M4 receptors,we used clustered regularly interspaced short palin⁃dromic repeats-associated protein 9 technology to generate mice lacking M4 in the dorsal stria⁃tum(DS-M4-KD).The M4 positive allosteric modu⁃lator,VU0467154,were used to study the phar⁃macologically profiles with M4 receptor stimula⁃tion in WT mice.Oxotremorine M(Oxo-M),a no subtype-selective muscarinic agonist,was used to show that mAchRs activation,in order to dissect the particular function of M4,in DS-M4-KD mice.Open filed test and forced swim test were used to assess the change of psychiatric-like behav⁃iors.Western blotting and immunohistochemistry were used to detect protein levels of phosphory⁃lation site of dopamine-and cAMP-regulated phosphoprotein of 32 ku(DARPP-32).Whole-cell patch-clamp recording was used to assess M4-mediated cholinergic inhibition of glutamater⁃gic synaptic input transmission.RESULTS West⁃ern blotting and immunohistochemistry assay showed VU0467154(5 mg·kg-1,ip)promoted phosphorylation of DARPP-32 at Thr75,and atten⁃uated D1-dependent phosphorylation of DARPP-32 at Thr34 within the mouse DS.Consistently,the Oxo-M(4μg,icv)also increased DARPP-32 phosphorylation at site Thr75 to reversed phos⁃phorylation at site Thr34 in WT mice,but not in DS-M4-KD mice.In parallel with altered DARPP-32 responses,VU0467154 or Oxo-M evoked a psychological stress response and reversed D1-induced hyperlocomotion in mice in open field test and force swim tests.However,Oxo-M sup⁃pression of D1-depengdeng behavioral respons⁃es was impaired in DS-M4-KD mice.Whole-cell patch recording showed that VU0467154 or Oxo-M mediated endogenous cholinergic inhibition of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents through M4 receptors,which in turn suppressed D1-depen⁃dent glutamatergic synaptic transmission in the DS.CONCLUSION This study provides evidence for the role of M4 receptors in regulation of dopa⁃mine/DARPP-32 signaling and glutamate respons⁃es in the DS,and therefore modulation of psychi⁃atric behaviors associated with D1 signaling.This results indicate the mechanisms of treatments targeting M4 in psychiatric disorders.展开更多
OBJECTIVE Cannabis can be rewarding or aversive.Cannabis reward is believed to be mediated by activation of cannabinoid CB1 receptors(CB1 Rs) on GABAergic neurons that disinhibit dopaminergic neurons in the ventral te...OBJECTIVE Cannabis can be rewarding or aversive.Cannabis reward is believed to be mediated by activation of cannabinoid CB1 receptors(CB1 Rs) on GABAergic neurons that disinhibit dopaminergic neurons in the ventral tegmental area(VTA).However,little is known about the mechanisms underlying cannabis aversion in rodents.Our study aimed at dig the mechanisms underlying cannabis aversion.METHODS We first created CB1-floxed mice and then generated conditional CB1-knockout mice(VgluT2-CB1-/-) in glutamatergic neurons that express vesicular glutamate transporter 2(VgluT2).We then used immunohistochemistry and RNAscope in situ hybridization assays to examine whether CB1 Rs are expressed in VTA GABAergic neurons and glutamatergic neurons.We also used Cre-dependent viral vector to express light-sensitive channelrhodopsin-2 into VTA glutamatergic neurons.Next,conditioned place preference and intracranial self-stimulation(ICSS) maintained by optical activation of VTA glutamatergic neurons were employed to evaluate the effects of Δ9-THC on brain reward function.RESULTS CB1 Rs are found not only on VTA GABAergic neurons,but also on VTA glutamatergic neurons that express vesicular glutamate transporter 2(VgluT2).Photoactivation of VTA glutamatergic neurons produced robust intracranial self-stimulation(ICSS) behavior,which was dose-dependently blocked by DA receptor antagonists,but enhanced by cocaine.In contrast,Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol(Δ9-THC),the major psychoactive component of cannabis,produced dose-dependent conditioned place aversion and a reduction in the above optical ICSS in VgluT2-cre control mice,but not in VgluT2-CB1-/-mice.CONCLUSION Activation of CB1 Rs in VgluT2-expressing glutamate neurons produces aversive effects that might explain why cannabinoid is not rewarding in rodents and might also account for individual differences in the hedonic effects of cannabis in humans.展开更多
OBJECTIVE Genetic variation in histamine H2 receptor(H2R)and H2R ligands are linked to schizophrenia,however little is known about how H2R contributes to pathogenesis of schizophrenia.Here,we detected a decreased expr...OBJECTIVE Genetic variation in histamine H2 receptor(H2R)and H2R ligands are linked to schizophrenia,however little is known about how H2R contributes to pathogenesis of schizophrenia.Here,we detected a decreased expression of H2R in medial prefrontal cortex(mPFC)glutamatergic neurons in schizophrenia patients.METHODS AND RESULTS Selective knockout of H2R gene(Hrh2)in glutamatergic neurons induced schizophrenia-like behaviors including sensorimotor gating deficit,increased locomotor activity,social withdrawal and anhedo⁃nia in behavior tests,as well as reduced sponta⁃neous firing of mPFC glutamatergic neurons in electrophysiological tests.Selective deletion of the Hrh2 in mPFC glutamatergic neurons but not hippocampus glutamatergic neurons also induced such schizophrenia-like behaviors.Patch-clamp electrophysiology establishes that H2R deficiency reduced the intrinsic excitability of glutamatergic neurons by up-regulation of hyperpolarization activated cyclic nucleotide-gated channels.Fur⁃thermore,either overexpression of H2R in gluta⁃matergic neurons or activation of H2R in the mPFC reversed the MK-801-induced schizophrenia-like symptoms.CONCLUSION H2R can serve as a novel drug target given that functional deficiency of this receptor in mPFC glutamatergic neurons may be crucial for the pathogenesis of schizo⁃phrenia.H2R agonists can be viewed as drug candidates for the treatment of schizophrenia.展开更多
ABC immunoperoxidase was used to test the effects of rhTGF-β1 and rhGM-CSF on receptor expressions in J6-1 and J6-2 leukemic cell lines. Computer assisted image analysis system was introduced to evaluate positive ind...ABC immunoperoxidase was used to test the effects of rhTGF-β1 and rhGM-CSF on receptor expressions in J6-1 and J6-2 leukemic cell lines. Computer assisted image analysis system was introduced to evaluate positive index of time-and dose-dependent specimens. The expression of c-kit was elevated both in positive rate and positive index by TGF-01 in both time- and dose-dependent manners. Ing/ml rhTGF-β1 simultaneously enhanced the expression of c-fms and PDGF-R which is not detected in 50 ng / ml GM-CSF treatment. Endoglin was down-regulated after TGF-β treatment and up-regulated in J6-2 cells after GM-CSF treatment, c-kit Expression was elevated by TGF-β in J6-1 cells while decreased by both in J6-2 cells.展开更多
OBJECTIVE TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand(TRAIL)is a promising cancer therapeutic agent due to its minimal toxicity to normal tissues and remarkable apoptotic activity in tumors.However,most breast cancer cells ...OBJECTIVE TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand(TRAIL)is a promising cancer therapeutic agent due to its minimal toxicity to normal tissues and remarkable apoptotic activity in tumors.However,most breast cancer cells are resistant to TRAIL-induced apoptosis.Our objectives are to investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms and to develop strategies to overcome such resistance.METHODS To identify modulators of TRAIL-induced apoptosis,we carried out a genome wide si RNA screen.To validate the screening result,we either silenced or overexpressed the identified genes in various breast cancer cells and changes in growth and TRAIL-induced cell apoptosis were determined in vitro and in an orthotopic xenograft mouse model.Finally,we investigated whether small molecules targeting the identified genes improve the effectiveness of TRAIL-therapy.RESULTS We unexpectedly identified androgen receptor(AR)to be responsible for TRAIL resistance.While AR is classically viewed as the key factor in prostate cancer progression,we found that AR expression levels were markedly elevated in human invasive breast cancer specimens including triple-negative breast cancers(TNBC)that are highly aggressive with poor prognosis.Importantly,breast cancer cell lines express different levels of AR that correlated with their TRAIL resistance.AR overexpression in MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-436 cells suppressed the TRAIL sensitivity whereas knockdown of AR rendered MCF-7 and MDA-MB-453 cells sensitive to TRAIL-induced apoptosis.AR overexpression also induced TRAIL resistance in breast tumors in vivo.Further,we observed an upregulation of the TRAIL receptor,death receptor 5(DR5)in breast cancer cells,following the removal or inhibition of AR by its antagonists Casodex and MDV3100.Treatment with AR antagonists also enhanced TRAIL-induced breast cancer cell apoptosis.CONCLUSION AR signaling suppresses TRAIL-induced breast cancer cell apoptosis,in part,by suppressing DR5 expression,and a combination of AR antagonists together with TRAIL may be a novel and effective therapy for TNBC.展开更多
OBJECTIVE Individuals vary in sensitivity to the behavioral effects of nicotine,resulting in differences in their vulnerability to addiction.The role of rearing environment in determining individual sensitivity to nic...OBJECTIVE Individuals vary in sensitivity to the behavioral effects of nicotine,resulting in differences in their vulnerability to addiction.The role of rearing environment in determining individual sensitivity to nicotine is unclear.The neuropharmacological mechanisms mediating the effect of rearing environment on the actions of nicotine are also understood.Thus,the contribution of rearing environment in determining the sensitivity to the locomotor effects of nicotine and regulating α4β2*-and α7-nicotinic acetylcholine(n ACh) receptor expressionwas determined in rats reared in isolated(IC) or enriched(EC) conditions.METHODS To measure locomotor activity,adolescent rats(postnatal day 21-51)were injected with saline(1 mL·kg^(-1)) or nicotine(0.3 mg·kg^(-1)) subcutaneously,then placed in chamberswhere ambulatory activity was monitored for 30-min by computer for 14 daily sessions.α4β2*-andα7-n ACh receptor expression in the mesolimbic dopamine pathway was determined by quantitative autoradiography of [125 I]-epibatidine and [125 I]-bungarotoxinbinding,respectively,in 16 μmol·L^(-1) coronal sections.Values for receptor expression in fmol are ±s of 8 brains and compared by two-tailed,unpaired t-test with P<0.05 considered significant.RESULTS EC-rats are similarly sensitive as IC-rats to the locomotor effects of nicotine.[125 I]-epibatidine binding in the ventral tegmental area of EC-rats was reduced(2.8±0.3 fmo L) compared to IC-rats(4.0±0.4 fmo L);there was no difference in the nucleus accumbens.There was no difference between EC-and IC-rats in α7-n ACh receptor expression in the mesolimbic dopamine pathway.CONCLUSION Rearing environment differentially regulates n ACh receptor subtypes in EC and IC rats.These data suggest regulation of n ACh receptors by environmental factors may be a mechanism for the protective effect of enrichment against altered sensitivity to nicotine in genetically vulnerable individuals.The characterization of these mechanisms will aid in development of novel pharmacological tools mimicking the protection afforded by environmental enrichment in nicotine-sensitive individuals.展开更多
OBJECTIVE To identify the mechanisms by which the formyl peptide receptor 2(FPR2)mediates both inflammatory and anti-inflammatory signaling in an agonist-dependent manner.METHODS Cells expressing FPR2 were incubated w...OBJECTIVE To identify the mechanisms by which the formyl peptide receptor 2(FPR2)mediates both inflammatory and anti-inflammatory signaling in an agonist-dependent manner.METHODS Cells expressing FPR2 were incubated with weak agonists,Aβ42 and Ac2-26,before stimulation with a strong agonist,WKYMVm.Calcium mobilization,c AMP inhibition and MAP kinase activation were measured.Intramolecular FRET were determined using FPR2 constructs with an ECFP attached to the C-terminus and a Fl As H binding motif embedded in the first or third intracellular loop(IL1 or IL3,respectively).RESULTS Aβ42 did not induce significant Ca^(2+) mobilization,but positively modulated WKYMVm-induced Ca^(2+) mobilization and c AMP reduction in a dose-variable manner within a narrow range of ligand concentrations.Treating FPR2-expressing cells with Ac2-26,a peptide with anti-inflammatory activity,negatively modulated WKYMVm-induced Ca^(2+) mobilization and c AMP reduction.Intramolecular FRET assay showed that stimulation of the receptor constructs with Aβ42 brought the C-terminal domain closer to IL1 but away from IL3.An opposite conformational change was induced by Ac2-26.The FPR2 conformation induced by Aβ42 corresponded to enhanced ERK phosphorylation and attenuated p38 MAPK phosphorylation,whereas Ac2-26 induced FPR2 conformational change corresponding to elevated p38 MAPK phosphorylation and reduced ERK phosphorylation.CONCLUSION Aβ42 and Ac2-26 induce different conformational changes in FPR2.These findings provide a structural basis for FPR2 mediation of inflammatory vs anti-inflammatory functions and identify a type of receptor modulation that differs from the classic positive and negative allosteric modulation.展开更多
Erythropoietin (EPO), a 34 kD glycopro-tein, is the principal growth factor regulating theproduction of circulating erythrocytes; EPO isessential for committed CFU - E erythroid pro-genitors to divide several times an...Erythropoietin (EPO), a 34 kD glycopro-tein, is the principal growth factor regulating theproduction of circulating erythrocytes; EPO isessential for committed CFU - E erythroid pro-genitors to divide several times and then to dif-ferentiate into erythrocytes. Like most receptorsfor hematopoietic growth factors, the erythro-poietin receptor (EPO - R) is a type I trans-membrane protein and a member of the cytokinereceptor superfamily. These receptors containfour conserved cysteines and a Trp - Ser - X -展开更多
OBJECTIVE To investigate the role of connexin proteins(Cx),which form gap junctions(GJ),in progression and chemotherapeutic sensitivity of cervical cancer(CaC x).METHODS We analyze the expression of Cx26,Cx30,Cx32 and...OBJECTIVE To investigate the role of connexin proteins(Cx),which form gap junctions(GJ),in progression and chemotherapeutic sensitivity of cervical cancer(CaC x).METHODS We analyze the expression of Cx26,Cx30,Cx32 and Cx43 in human specimens consisting of:Normal cervix(n=78),CaCx FIGO stageⅠ(n=148),CaCx FIGO stageⅡ(n=165).In CaCx cell lines,Hela-Cx32(induced expression by doxycycline),C-33A(endogenously express Cx32)and si Ha(transiently transfected plasmid with Cx32),we detected the role of Cx32 against tostreptonigrin/cisplatin-induced apopotosisin presence or absence of functional GJ through using GJ inhibitors or low density cultural.Furtherly,we observed the relativity of Cx32 and EGFR expression in human specimens.Also,we detected the role of EGFR signaling pathway in the process of Cx32 anti-apoptosis through suppressed EGFR expression by inhibitors or si RNA sequences in cell lines.RESULTS We firstly demonstrated the expression of Cx32 was highly upregulated and accumulated in cytoplasm in the CaCx specimens,and the degree of upregulation correlated with advanced FIGO stages.Thus,in three human cervical cell lines,Cx32 was shown to suppress apoptosis when GJ formation is inhibited.No matter in cases of CaCx or cell lines,Cx32 expression was highly correlated with expression of EGFR and the EGFR pathway is an essential component of the Cx32-induced anti-apoptotic effect.CONCLUSION Cx32,traditionally tumor suppressive protein,was shown to be tumor protective against chemotherapy through EGFR pathway in a GJ-independent way.展开更多
OBJECTIVE Takeda G protein-coupled receptor 5(TGR5)is recognized as a promising target for type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome;its expression has been demonstrat⁃ed in the brain and is thought to be neuroprotec⁃tiv...OBJECTIVE Takeda G protein-coupled receptor 5(TGR5)is recognized as a promising target for type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome;its expression has been demonstrat⁃ed in the brain and is thought to be neuroprotec⁃tive.Here,we hypothesize that dysfunction of central TGR5 may contribute to the pathogene⁃sis of depression.METHODS In well-established chronic social defeat stress(CSDS)and chronic restraint stress(CRS)models of depression,we investigated the functional roles of TGR5 in CA3 pyramidal neurons(PyNs)and underlying mech⁃anisms of the neuronal circuit in depression(for in vivo studies,n=10;for in vitro studies,n=5-10)using fiber photometry;optogenetic,chemoge⁃netic,pharmacological,and molecular profiling techniques;and behavioral tests.RESULTS Both CSDS and CRS most significantly reduced TGR5 expression of hippocampal CA3 PyNs.Genetic overexpression of TGR5 in CA3 PyNs or intra-CA3 infusion of INT-777,a specific agonist,protected against CSDS and CRS,exerting sig⁃nificant antidepressant-like effects that were mediated via CA3 PyN activation.Conversely,genetic knockout or TGR5 knockdown in CA3 facilitated stress-induced depression-like behav⁃iors.Re-expression of TGR5 in CA3 PyNs rather than infusion of INT-777 significantly improved depression-like behaviors in Tgr5 knockout mice exposed to CSDS or CRS.Silencing and stimula⁃tion of CA3 PyNs→somatostatin-GABAergic(gamma-aminobutyric acidergic)neurons of the dorsolateral septum circuit bidirectionally regulat⁃ed depression-like behaviors,and blockade of this circuit abrogated the antidepressant-like effects from TGR5 activation of CA3 PyNs.CON⁃CLUSION TGR5 can regulate depression via CA3 PyNs→somatostatin-GABAergic neurons of dorsolateral septum transmission,suggesting that TGR5 could be a novel target for developing antidepressants.展开更多
Aim Fragile X mental retardation protein （FMRP） is an RNA-binding protein important for the control of translation and synaptic function. The mutation or silencing of FMRP causes Fragile X syndrome （FXS） , which l...Aim Fragile X mental retardation protein （FMRP） is an RNA-binding protein important for the control of translation and synaptic function. The mutation or silencing of FMRP causes Fragile X syndrome （FXS） , which leads to intellectual disability and social impairment. γ-aminobutyric acid （GABA） is the major inhibitory neuro- transmitter of the mammalian central nervous system, and its metabotropic GABAB receptor has been implicated in various mental disorders. The GABAB receptor agonist baclofen has been shown to improve FXS symptoms in a mouse model and in human patients, suggesting the role of GABAB receptor on FMRP regulation. Here we investi- gated the signaling events linking the GABAB receptor and FMRP. Methods Western blot was used in this study to detect protein expression and kinase phosphorylation in cerebellar granule neurons. For key molecules in signal- ling pathway, RNAi was used in MEFs to confirm the results in neurons. Results GABAB receptor activation up- regulated cAMP response element binding protein-dependent Fmrp expression in cultured mouse cerebellar granule neurons via two distinct mechanisms： the transactivation of insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor and activation of protein kinase C. In addition, a positive allosteric modulator of the GABAB receptor, CGP7930, stimulated Fmrp expression in neurons. Conclusion These results suggest a role for GABAB receptor in Fmrp regulation and a po- tential interest of GABAB receptor signaling in FXS improvement.展开更多
OBJECTIVE Respiratory depression hinders the use of anaesthetics and sedative hypnotics.For emergency use,specific antagonists are currently administered to counteract respiratory depression.However,antagonists are of...OBJECTIVE Respiratory depression hinders the use of anaesthetics and sedative hypnotics.For emergency use,specific antagonists are currently administered to counteract respiratory depression.However,antagonists are often short-lasting and can have multiple unexpected side effects.A novel AMPA receptor modulator LCX001,synthesized by our Institute of Medicinal Chemistry,is expected to relieve suppressed respiration.To explore the mechanism and impact of LCX001 on protection against respiratory depression.METHODS LCX001 was tested to alleviate respiratory depression triggered by opioid,propofol and pentobarbital in the plethysmography recording.The acetic acid writhing and hot-plate tests were conducted to evaluate potential analgesic effect of LCX001.Binding assay and whole-cell recording were used to analyze the property of LCX001 on positive modulation.The function of AMPA receptors were determined by location of receptors inthe membrane and state of channel opening,and both processes were impressed by AMPA receptor regulatory proteins.According to the theory,the effect of LCX001 on the expression of stargazin was measured firstly by Western blotting.The variation of receptor surface location were observed by live cell imaging.The regulation on neuronal Ca2+and cell function was investigated intensively by Ca2+imaging to clarify mechanism of LCX001.RESULTS LCX001 effectively rescued and prevented opioid(fentanyl and TH-030418),propofol,and pentobarbitalinduced respiratory depression by strengthening respiratory frequency and minute ventilation by 30%-50% in rats.The acetic acid writhing test and hot-plate test revealed potent anti-nociceptive efficacy of LCX001 on increasing the inhibition rate and %MPE to 80% and 65% respectively,in contrast to some ampakines that did not affect analgesia.Furthermore,LCX001 potentiated[3 H]AMPA and L-glutamate binding affinity to AMPA receptors,and facilitated glutamateevoked inward currents in HEK293 cells stably expressing GluA2(R).At 10 mmol·L^(-1) glutamate evoked amplitudes,LCX001 at 100 μmol·L^(-1) increased the potency of glutamate induced currents by(1120 ± 60) pA,compared with that of(752 ± 35) pA in the control group.LCX001 also prominently promoted steady state/peak amplitude ratio.LCX001 significantly slowed down the desensitization rates of the AMPA ion channel,and inhibited current decay.Importantly,application of LCX001 generated a significant increase in GluA2(R) surface expression in a mechanism of stargazin up-regulation,and restrained opioidinduced abnormal intracel ular Ca2+load,which might participate in breathing modulation.CONCLUSION The typical positive modulatory impact and potential new mechanism of LCX001 might promote ampakines to be a therapeutic option for protection against respiratory depression.展开更多
Platelets aggregation and thrombosis formation are major reasons of cardiovascular and cerebral vascular diseases.To develop new generative,potent and safe agents for inhibiting platelet aggregation and preventing abo...Platelets aggregation and thrombosis formation are major reasons of cardiovascular and cerebral vascular diseases.To develop new generative,potent and safe agents for inhibiting platelet aggregation and preventing above diseases are urgently required.Some traditional Chinese medicines of″Houxue Huayu″have been shown to inhibit platelet aggregation potently.In the present study the mechanisms and the molecular targets of puerarin,salvianolic acid B and the analogue of 3-n-butylphthalide,dl-PHPB were investigated and compared with ticlopidine.Four platelet aggregation inducers,ADP,arachidonic acid,collagen and thrombin were used in the study.It was found that puerarin and dl-PHPB specifically inhibited ADP induced platelet aggregation like ticlopidine did.However,salvianolic acid B inhibited both ADP and collagen induced platelet aggregations with similar potency.Due to existing two ADP receptor subtypes on platelets,P2Y1 and P2Y12,we studied the action of above compounds on the receptors and the signaling pathways.It was found that dl-PHPB decreased IP1 accumulation produced by ADP,but had no effect on IP1 level induced by m-3M3 FBS,an activator of PLC.M-3M3 FBS might attenuate the inhibitory effect of dl-PHPB on ADP-induced platelet aggregation.In addition,dl-PHPB did not affect cyclic AMP formation in platelets by ADP,which is different from P2Y12 antagonist ticlopidine.Puerarin showed the similar effects of dl-PHPB.Therefore,the actions of dl-PHPB and puerarin might be through P2Y1receptor-PLC-βpathway.Salvianolic acid B did not reduce the IP1 accumulation stimulated by ADP.It might act on the receptor subtype P2Y12.Our results suggest that components of Chinese herb medicine might be a resource for development of novel anti-platelet drugs.展开更多
OBJECTIVE Thienorphine,a new oripavine derivative,has shown to possess stronger antinociceptive effects and better oral bioavailability compared to buprenorphine.The present study examines the effect of thienorphine o...OBJECTIVE Thienorphine,a new oripavine derivative,has shown to possess stronger antinociceptive effects and better oral bioavailability compared to buprenorphine.The present study examines the effect of thienorphine on c AMP-dependent protein kinase A(PKA) activity in CHO cells expressing μ-,κ-,δ-and ORL1 receptors.In addition,we further examined its analgesic effect in vivo.METHODS The effect of thienorphine on cA MP-dependent PKA redistribution and cA MP inhibition were analyzed in CHO-PKAcatEGFP cells.PKA redistribution assays in CHO-PKAcatEGFP cells stably expressing μ-,κ-,δ-and ORL1 receptors were analyzed by high-throughput screening system to elucidate the efficacy of agonists or antagonists on opioid receptors.Moroever,the antinociceptive effects of thienorphine in vivo were examined using hot plate test.RESULTS Briefly,the maximum inhibition of thienorphine on PKA activity was about 36%,100%,100%and 12% in CHO-μ/κ/δ/ORL1-PKAcatE GFP cel s,respectively.In addition,thienorphine concentrationdependently inhibited the PKA activity with EC50 value of(22.7±18.1) nmol·L^(-1) in CHO-κ-PKAcatE GFP cels and(12.4±7.7) nmol·L^(-1) in CHO-δ-PKAcatE GFP cells.Thienorphine induced approximately 50%antinociceptive effect in mice lacking μ receptors compared to their wild-type controls(P<0.05).Also,the κ and δ selective antagonist nor-binaltorphimine,naltrindole decreased approximately 50%-60% in % MPE of theinorphine in μ-KO mice,respectively.The ORL1 receptor selective antagonist J113397 had no effect in %MPE of theinorphine in μ-KO mice.CONCLUSION Thienorphine induces analgesia through bindingκ-and δ-,or by partially binding μ-opioid receptor,thus further regulating the cAMP-PKA activity.Therefore,thienorphine may be used in acute or chronic pain with minimal addictive potential.展开更多
OBJECTIVE Cognitive inflexibility plays a critical role in the compulsive drug taking,a central characteristic of drug addictions,yet its underlying neurochemical mechanisms are not well understood.The present study e...OBJECTIVE Cognitive inflexibility plays a critical role in the compulsive drug taking,a central characteristic of drug addictions,yet its underlying neurochemical mechanisms are not well understood.The present study examined the impact of morphine withdrawal on reversal learning.METHODS Reversal learning was tested in a four-choices digging task.Some brain tissues were harvested 2 h after the behavioral experiment for the further measurement.RESULTS We found that after long-term abstinence for a month from chronic morphine exposure,mice exhibited a profound reversal learning deficit.We further found that dopamine D2 receptor(D2R)system in the frontal-striatal circuit is significantly down-regulated,at both receptor and downstream signals levels.Subsequent pharmacological experiments demonstrated that aripiprazole,a D2R partial agonist,prevented the D2R downregulation and rescued the reversal learning deficit.CONCLUSION Together,our findings provide valuable insights into the causal relationship between D2R system in the frontal-striatal circuit and the cognitive inflexibility caused by abused drugs and offer a promising possibility of an effective therapeutic intervention for drug addictions.展开更多
OBJECTIVE To investigate the anti-rheumatoid arthritis(RA)effect of Escin combined with low dose of GCs(dexameth⁃asone,Dex)and its underlying mechanism.METHODS Adjuvant-induced rheumatoid arthritis rats and LPS-injure...OBJECTIVE To investigate the anti-rheumatoid arthritis(RA)effect of Escin combined with low dose of GCs(dexameth⁃asone,Dex)and its underlying mechanism.METHODS Adjuvant-induced rheumatoid arthritis rats and LPS-injured RAW 264.7 were used to investigate the anti-RA effects of Escin combined with low dose Dex in vivo and in vitro.In vivo experiment:rats were randomly divided into model group(AIA),dexamethasone high dose(Dex,0.2 mg·kg^-1)group,dexamethasone low dose(Dex,0.05 mg·kg^-1)group,Escin 10 mg·kg^-1 group,Dex 0.05+Escin group,10 rats in each group,another 10 were used as normal control group.The vehicle and the corresponding drug were administered intragastrically(ig)daily for 14 d.In vitro experiment:LPS was used to stimulate RAW 264.7 macrophages for inflammatory models,which were divided into control group,LPS group,Dex with high dose(50 nmol·L^-1)group,and Dex with low dose(12.5 nmol·L^-1)group.In the Escin 10μmol·L^-1 group and the Dex+Escin(12.5 nmol·L^-1+10μmol·L^-1)group,the corresponding drugs were added to each well.After 2 h,LPS was added to induce inflammation.RESULTS Escin combined with low dose Dex significantly decreased arthritic index,serum IL-6 and TNF-α,improved paw swelling,and ameliorated the joint pathology immune organ pathology significantly.Gene chip results revealed that Nr3c1(GR)altered significantly.And that GR activation by Escin and low dose Dex was confirmed both in vivo and in vitro.Furthermore,Escin combined with low dose Dex also significant increase GR mRNA expression.However,when suppression of GR by its specific inhibitor,the anti-RA effect of Escin combined with low dose Dex was abolished.CONCLUSION Escin combined with Dex reduces the dose of Dex,and exerts significant anti-RA effects,which could also reduce the adverse effects of Dex.This combination might be attributed to GR activation.This study might provide a new combination drugs for the treatment of RA.展开更多
OBJECTIVE Uridine adenosine tetraphosphate(Up4A),a dinucleotide,contains both purine and pyrimidine moieties,and exerts its vascular influence via activation of purinergic receptors.Here,we aimed to investigate the ef...OBJECTIVE Uridine adenosine tetraphosphate(Up4A),a dinucleotide,contains both purine and pyrimidine moieties,and exerts its vascular influence via activation of purinergic receptors.Here,we aimed to investigate the effects of Up4 A on angiogenesis and the putative purinergic receptors(PR)involved in this process.METHODS Tubule formation assay was performed in 3D matrix system.In this assay,human umbilical vein endothelial cells(HUVECs)were co-cultured with pericytes with various Up4 A doses(0,1,2.5,5,10 and 20μmol·L-1)in the absence and presence of P2Y6 R antagonist MRS2578(10μmol·L-1)for 5d.Expression profile of PR subtypes and angiogenic factors was assessed in HUVECs by q-PCR with and without P2Y6 R antagonist.RESULTS No difference in initial tubule formation was detected between Up4 A stimulation and control conditions at day 2.In contrast,a significant increase in vascular density in response to Up4 A was observed at day 5.Up4 A at a dose of 2.5and 5μmol·L-1 promoted total tubule length(by-1.89 fold and-2.23fold),number of tubules(by-1.71 fold and-1.89fold)as well as number of junctions(by-2.24 fold and-2.80fold),all of which were inhibited by MRS2578.Further increase in Up4 A dose to10 and 20μmol·L-1 did not induce an increase in these vascular parameters as compared to non-treated controls.Moreover,Up4 A increased mRNA level of P2YRs(P2Y2R,P2Y4 R and P2Y6R)but not P2XR(P2X4R and P2X7R)or P1R(A2AR and A2BR),while Up4 A upregulated VEGFA and ANGPT1 but not VEGFR2,ANGPT2,Tie1 and Tie2at mRNA level.Transcriptional upregulation of P2 YRs and angiogenic factors by Up4 A was inhibited by MRS2578.CONCLUSION Up4 A is functionally capable of promoting tubule formation in vitro co-culture system.This process is likely mediated by activation of pyrimidine-favored P2 YRs but not P2 XR or P1 Rs,and involves stimulation of well known angiogenic factors.展开更多
文摘Objective To evaluate the association of GGN repeat polymorphism of androgen receptor(AR)with ovarian reserve and ovarian response in controlled ovarian stimulation(COS).Methods This genetic association study was conducted among a total of 361 women aged≤40 years with basal FSH≤12 U/L undergoing the GnRH-agonist long protocol for COS in a university affiliated IVF center.GGN repeat in the AR gene was analyzed with Sanger sequencing.The primary endpoint was the number of antral follicle counts(AFCs),and the secondary endpoints were stimulation days,total dose of gonadotropin(Gn)used,total number of retrieved oocytes,ovarian sensitivity index,and follicular output rate.Results The GGN repeat in exon 1 of the AR gene ranged from 13 to 24,and the median repeat length was 22.Based on the genotypes(S for GGN repeats<22,L for GGN repeats≥22),the patients were divided into 3 groups:SS,SL,and LL.Generalized regression analysis indicated that the number of AFCs in group SS was significantly lower than those in group SL(adjusted β=1.8,95%CI:0.2-3.4,P=0.024)and group LL(adjusted β=1.5,95%CI:0.2-2.7,P=0.021).No significant difference was observed in the number of AFCs between group SL and group LL(P>0.05).Generalized regression analysis indicated no significant differences in ovarian stimulation parameters among the 3 groups,either before or after adjusting for confounding factors(P>0.05).Conclusion GGN repeat length on the AR gene is associated with AFC but not with ovarian response in Chinese women,indicating that AR gene polymorphisms may affect ovarian reserve.
文摘OBJECTIVE Abnormal striatal dopaminergic and glutamatergic neurotransmis⁃sion is central to the pathophysiology of schizo⁃phrenia.In this study,we investigated the roles of M4 receptor interplay with D1 signaling in stria⁃tal neurotransmission that affect glutamatergic transmission to control the etiology of neuropsy⁃chiatric disorders.METHODS To study dorsal striatum(DS)region-specific neuronal and behav⁃ioral responses modulated by M4 receptors,we used clustered regularly interspaced short palin⁃dromic repeats-associated protein 9 technology to generate mice lacking M4 in the dorsal stria⁃tum(DS-M4-KD).The M4 positive allosteric modu⁃lator,VU0467154,were used to study the phar⁃macologically profiles with M4 receptor stimula⁃tion in WT mice.Oxotremorine M(Oxo-M),a no subtype-selective muscarinic agonist,was used to show that mAchRs activation,in order to dissect the particular function of M4,in DS-M4-KD mice.Open filed test and forced swim test were used to assess the change of psychiatric-like behav⁃iors.Western blotting and immunohistochemistry were used to detect protein levels of phosphory⁃lation site of dopamine-and cAMP-regulated phosphoprotein of 32 ku(DARPP-32).Whole-cell patch-clamp recording was used to assess M4-mediated cholinergic inhibition of glutamater⁃gic synaptic input transmission.RESULTS West⁃ern blotting and immunohistochemistry assay showed VU0467154(5 mg·kg-1,ip)promoted phosphorylation of DARPP-32 at Thr75,and atten⁃uated D1-dependent phosphorylation of DARPP-32 at Thr34 within the mouse DS.Consistently,the Oxo-M(4μg,icv)also increased DARPP-32 phosphorylation at site Thr75 to reversed phos⁃phorylation at site Thr34 in WT mice,but not in DS-M4-KD mice.In parallel with altered DARPP-32 responses,VU0467154 or Oxo-M evoked a psychological stress response and reversed D1-induced hyperlocomotion in mice in open field test and force swim tests.However,Oxo-M sup⁃pression of D1-depengdeng behavioral respons⁃es was impaired in DS-M4-KD mice.Whole-cell patch recording showed that VU0467154 or Oxo-M mediated endogenous cholinergic inhibition of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents through M4 receptors,which in turn suppressed D1-depen⁃dent glutamatergic synaptic transmission in the DS.CONCLUSION This study provides evidence for the role of M4 receptors in regulation of dopa⁃mine/DARPP-32 signaling and glutamate respons⁃es in the DS,and therefore modulation of psychi⁃atric behaviors associated with D1 signaling.This results indicate the mechanisms of treatments targeting M4 in psychiatric disorders.
文摘OBJECTIVE Cannabis can be rewarding or aversive.Cannabis reward is believed to be mediated by activation of cannabinoid CB1 receptors(CB1 Rs) on GABAergic neurons that disinhibit dopaminergic neurons in the ventral tegmental area(VTA).However,little is known about the mechanisms underlying cannabis aversion in rodents.Our study aimed at dig the mechanisms underlying cannabis aversion.METHODS We first created CB1-floxed mice and then generated conditional CB1-knockout mice(VgluT2-CB1-/-) in glutamatergic neurons that express vesicular glutamate transporter 2(VgluT2).We then used immunohistochemistry and RNAscope in situ hybridization assays to examine whether CB1 Rs are expressed in VTA GABAergic neurons and glutamatergic neurons.We also used Cre-dependent viral vector to express light-sensitive channelrhodopsin-2 into VTA glutamatergic neurons.Next,conditioned place preference and intracranial self-stimulation(ICSS) maintained by optical activation of VTA glutamatergic neurons were employed to evaluate the effects of Δ9-THC on brain reward function.RESULTS CB1 Rs are found not only on VTA GABAergic neurons,but also on VTA glutamatergic neurons that express vesicular glutamate transporter 2(VgluT2).Photoactivation of VTA glutamatergic neurons produced robust intracranial self-stimulation(ICSS) behavior,which was dose-dependently blocked by DA receptor antagonists,but enhanced by cocaine.In contrast,Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol(Δ9-THC),the major psychoactive component of cannabis,produced dose-dependent conditioned place aversion and a reduction in the above optical ICSS in VgluT2-cre control mice,but not in VgluT2-CB1-/-mice.CONCLUSION Activation of CB1 Rs in VgluT2-expressing glutamate neurons produces aversive effects that might explain why cannabinoid is not rewarding in rodents and might also account for individual differences in the hedonic effects of cannabis in humans.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China(81973302)。
文摘OBJECTIVE Genetic variation in histamine H2 receptor(H2R)and H2R ligands are linked to schizophrenia,however little is known about how H2R contributes to pathogenesis of schizophrenia.Here,we detected a decreased expression of H2R in medial prefrontal cortex(mPFC)glutamatergic neurons in schizophrenia patients.METHODS AND RESULTS Selective knockout of H2R gene(Hrh2)in glutamatergic neurons induced schizophrenia-like behaviors including sensorimotor gating deficit,increased locomotor activity,social withdrawal and anhedo⁃nia in behavior tests,as well as reduced sponta⁃neous firing of mPFC glutamatergic neurons in electrophysiological tests.Selective deletion of the Hrh2 in mPFC glutamatergic neurons but not hippocampus glutamatergic neurons also induced such schizophrenia-like behaviors.Patch-clamp electrophysiology establishes that H2R deficiency reduced the intrinsic excitability of glutamatergic neurons by up-regulation of hyperpolarization activated cyclic nucleotide-gated channels.Fur⁃thermore,either overexpression of H2R in gluta⁃matergic neurons or activation of H2R in the mPFC reversed the MK-801-induced schizophrenia-like symptoms.CONCLUSION H2R can serve as a novel drug target given that functional deficiency of this receptor in mPFC glutamatergic neurons may be crucial for the pathogenesis of schizo⁃phrenia.H2R agonists can be viewed as drug candidates for the treatment of schizophrenia.
基金Supported by National Natural Sciences Foundation. The abstract of this work was published in Exp Hematol (1994:22:743)
文摘ABC immunoperoxidase was used to test the effects of rhTGF-β1 and rhGM-CSF on receptor expressions in J6-1 and J6-2 leukemic cell lines. Computer assisted image analysis system was introduced to evaluate positive index of time-and dose-dependent specimens. The expression of c-kit was elevated both in positive rate and positive index by TGF-01 in both time- and dose-dependent manners. Ing/ml rhTGF-β1 simultaneously enhanced the expression of c-fms and PDGF-R which is not detected in 50 ng / ml GM-CSF treatment. Endoglin was down-regulated after TGF-β treatment and up-regulated in J6-2 cells after GM-CSF treatment, c-kit Expression was elevated by TGF-β in J6-1 cells while decreased by both in J6-2 cells.
基金supported by National Institutes of Health(R21CA193271 and R01HL116849)National Natural Science Foundation of China(31100595 and 31300683)
文摘OBJECTIVE TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand(TRAIL)is a promising cancer therapeutic agent due to its minimal toxicity to normal tissues and remarkable apoptotic activity in tumors.However,most breast cancer cells are resistant to TRAIL-induced apoptosis.Our objectives are to investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms and to develop strategies to overcome such resistance.METHODS To identify modulators of TRAIL-induced apoptosis,we carried out a genome wide si RNA screen.To validate the screening result,we either silenced or overexpressed the identified genes in various breast cancer cells and changes in growth and TRAIL-induced cell apoptosis were determined in vitro and in an orthotopic xenograft mouse model.Finally,we investigated whether small molecules targeting the identified genes improve the effectiveness of TRAIL-therapy.RESULTS We unexpectedly identified androgen receptor(AR)to be responsible for TRAIL resistance.While AR is classically viewed as the key factor in prostate cancer progression,we found that AR expression levels were markedly elevated in human invasive breast cancer specimens including triple-negative breast cancers(TNBC)that are highly aggressive with poor prognosis.Importantly,breast cancer cell lines express different levels of AR that correlated with their TRAIL resistance.AR overexpression in MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-436 cells suppressed the TRAIL sensitivity whereas knockdown of AR rendered MCF-7 and MDA-MB-453 cells sensitive to TRAIL-induced apoptosis.AR overexpression also induced TRAIL resistance in breast tumors in vivo.Further,we observed an upregulation of the TRAIL receptor,death receptor 5(DR5)in breast cancer cells,following the removal or inhibition of AR by its antagonists Casodex and MDV3100.Treatment with AR antagonists also enhanced TRAIL-induced breast cancer cell apoptosis.CONCLUSION AR signaling suppresses TRAIL-induced breast cancer cell apoptosis,in part,by suppressing DR5 expression,and a combination of AR antagonists together with TRAIL may be a novel and effective therapy for TNBC.
基金supported by Nebraska Cancer and Smoking Disease Research Programs LB506and LB595 to CS BOCKMAN and DJ STAIRS
文摘OBJECTIVE Individuals vary in sensitivity to the behavioral effects of nicotine,resulting in differences in their vulnerability to addiction.The role of rearing environment in determining individual sensitivity to nicotine is unclear.The neuropharmacological mechanisms mediating the effect of rearing environment on the actions of nicotine are also understood.Thus,the contribution of rearing environment in determining the sensitivity to the locomotor effects of nicotine and regulating α4β2*-and α7-nicotinic acetylcholine(n ACh) receptor expressionwas determined in rats reared in isolated(IC) or enriched(EC) conditions.METHODS To measure locomotor activity,adolescent rats(postnatal day 21-51)were injected with saline(1 mL·kg^(-1)) or nicotine(0.3 mg·kg^(-1)) subcutaneously,then placed in chamberswhere ambulatory activity was monitored for 30-min by computer for 14 daily sessions.α4β2*-andα7-n ACh receptor expression in the mesolimbic dopamine pathway was determined by quantitative autoradiography of [125 I]-epibatidine and [125 I]-bungarotoxinbinding,respectively,in 16 μmol·L^(-1) coronal sections.Values for receptor expression in fmol are ±s of 8 brains and compared by two-tailed,unpaired t-test with P<0.05 considered significant.RESULTS EC-rats are similarly sensitive as IC-rats to the locomotor effects of nicotine.[125 I]-epibatidine binding in the ventral tegmental area of EC-rats was reduced(2.8±0.3 fmo L) compared to IC-rats(4.0±0.4 fmo L);there was no difference in the nucleus accumbens.There was no difference between EC-and IC-rats in α7-n ACh receptor expression in the mesolimbic dopamine pathway.CONCLUSION Rearing environment differentially regulates n ACh receptor subtypes in EC and IC rats.These data suggest regulation of n ACh receptors by environmental factors may be a mechanism for the protective effect of enrichment against altered sensitivity to nicotine in genetically vulnerable individuals.The characterization of these mechanisms will aid in development of novel pharmacological tools mimicking the protection afforded by environmental enrichment in nicotine-sensitive individuals.
基金supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(31470856 to RDY)the Science and Technology Development Fund of Macao(FDCT 072/2015/A2)the University of Macao(SRG2015-00047-ICMS-QRCM)
文摘OBJECTIVE To identify the mechanisms by which the formyl peptide receptor 2(FPR2)mediates both inflammatory and anti-inflammatory signaling in an agonist-dependent manner.METHODS Cells expressing FPR2 were incubated with weak agonists,Aβ42 and Ac2-26,before stimulation with a strong agonist,WKYMVm.Calcium mobilization,c AMP inhibition and MAP kinase activation were measured.Intramolecular FRET were determined using FPR2 constructs with an ECFP attached to the C-terminus and a Fl As H binding motif embedded in the first or third intracellular loop(IL1 or IL3,respectively).RESULTS Aβ42 did not induce significant Ca^(2+) mobilization,but positively modulated WKYMVm-induced Ca^(2+) mobilization and c AMP reduction in a dose-variable manner within a narrow range of ligand concentrations.Treating FPR2-expressing cells with Ac2-26,a peptide with anti-inflammatory activity,negatively modulated WKYMVm-induced Ca^(2+) mobilization and c AMP reduction.Intramolecular FRET assay showed that stimulation of the receptor constructs with Aβ42 brought the C-terminal domain closer to IL1 but away from IL3.An opposite conformational change was induced by Ac2-26.The FPR2 conformation induced by Aβ42 corresponded to enhanced ERK phosphorylation and attenuated p38 MAPK phosphorylation,whereas Ac2-26 induced FPR2 conformational change corresponding to elevated p38 MAPK phosphorylation and reduced ERK phosphorylation.CONCLUSION Aβ42 and Ac2-26 induce different conformational changes in FPR2.These findings provide a structural basis for FPR2 mediation of inflammatory vs anti-inflammatory functions and identify a type of receptor modulation that differs from the classic positive and negative allosteric modulation.
文摘Erythropoietin (EPO), a 34 kD glycopro-tein, is the principal growth factor regulating theproduction of circulating erythrocytes; EPO isessential for committed CFU - E erythroid pro-genitors to divide several times and then to dif-ferentiate into erythrocytes. Like most receptorsfor hematopoietic growth factors, the erythro-poietin receptor (EPO - R) is a type I trans-membrane protein and a member of the cytokinereceptor superfamily. These receptors containfour conserved cysteines and a Trp - Ser - X -
基金supported by National Nature Science Foundation of China(U1303221)National Natural Science Foundation of China(81373439,81473234)Construction of Technique Plate for Evaluation of the Pharmacodynamics of New Drugs in Xinjiang from the Department of Science and Technology of Xinjiang Province(201233150)
文摘OBJECTIVE To investigate the role of connexin proteins(Cx),which form gap junctions(GJ),in progression and chemotherapeutic sensitivity of cervical cancer(CaC x).METHODS We analyze the expression of Cx26,Cx30,Cx32 and Cx43 in human specimens consisting of:Normal cervix(n=78),CaCx FIGO stageⅠ(n=148),CaCx FIGO stageⅡ(n=165).In CaCx cell lines,Hela-Cx32(induced expression by doxycycline),C-33A(endogenously express Cx32)and si Ha(transiently transfected plasmid with Cx32),we detected the role of Cx32 against tostreptonigrin/cisplatin-induced apopotosisin presence or absence of functional GJ through using GJ inhibitors or low density cultural.Furtherly,we observed the relativity of Cx32 and EGFR expression in human specimens.Also,we detected the role of EGFR signaling pathway in the process of Cx32 anti-apoptosis through suppressed EGFR expression by inhibitors or si RNA sequences in cell lines.RESULTS We firstly demonstrated the expression of Cx32 was highly upregulated and accumulated in cytoplasm in the CaCx specimens,and the degree of upregulation correlated with advanced FIGO stages.Thus,in three human cervical cell lines,Cx32 was shown to suppress apoptosis when GJ formation is inhibited.No matter in cases of CaCx or cell lines,Cx32 expression was highly correlated with expression of EGFR and the EGFR pathway is an essential component of the Cx32-induced anti-apoptotic effect.CONCLUSION Cx32,traditionally tumor suppressive protein,was shown to be tumor protective against chemotherapy through EGFR pathway in a GJ-independent way.
文摘OBJECTIVE Takeda G protein-coupled receptor 5(TGR5)is recognized as a promising target for type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome;its expression has been demonstrat⁃ed in the brain and is thought to be neuroprotec⁃tive.Here,we hypothesize that dysfunction of central TGR5 may contribute to the pathogene⁃sis of depression.METHODS In well-established chronic social defeat stress(CSDS)and chronic restraint stress(CRS)models of depression,we investigated the functional roles of TGR5 in CA3 pyramidal neurons(PyNs)and underlying mech⁃anisms of the neuronal circuit in depression(for in vivo studies,n=10;for in vitro studies,n=5-10)using fiber photometry;optogenetic,chemoge⁃netic,pharmacological,and molecular profiling techniques;and behavioral tests.RESULTS Both CSDS and CRS most significantly reduced TGR5 expression of hippocampal CA3 PyNs.Genetic overexpression of TGR5 in CA3 PyNs or intra-CA3 infusion of INT-777,a specific agonist,protected against CSDS and CRS,exerting sig⁃nificant antidepressant-like effects that were mediated via CA3 PyN activation.Conversely,genetic knockout or TGR5 knockdown in CA3 facilitated stress-induced depression-like behav⁃iors.Re-expression of TGR5 in CA3 PyNs rather than infusion of INT-777 significantly improved depression-like behaviors in Tgr5 knockout mice exposed to CSDS or CRS.Silencing and stimula⁃tion of CA3 PyNs→somatostatin-GABAergic(gamma-aminobutyric acidergic)neurons of the dorsolateral septum circuit bidirectionally regulat⁃ed depression-like behaviors,and blockade of this circuit abrogated the antidepressant-like effects from TGR5 activation of CA3 PyNs.CON⁃CLUSION TGR5 can regulate depression via CA3 PyNs→somatostatin-GABAergic neurons of dorsolateral septum transmission,suggesting that TGR5 could be a novel target for developing antidepressants.
文摘Aim Fragile X mental retardation protein （FMRP） is an RNA-binding protein important for the control of translation and synaptic function. The mutation or silencing of FMRP causes Fragile X syndrome （FXS） , which leads to intellectual disability and social impairment. γ-aminobutyric acid （GABA） is the major inhibitory neuro- transmitter of the mammalian central nervous system, and its metabotropic GABAB receptor has been implicated in various mental disorders. The GABAB receptor agonist baclofen has been shown to improve FXS symptoms in a mouse model and in human patients, suggesting the role of GABAB receptor on FMRP regulation. Here we investi- gated the signaling events linking the GABAB receptor and FMRP. Methods Western blot was used in this study to detect protein expression and kinase phosphorylation in cerebellar granule neurons. For key molecules in signal- ling pathway, RNAi was used in MEFs to confirm the results in neurons. Results GABAB receptor activation up- regulated cAMP response element binding protein-dependent Fmrp expression in cultured mouse cerebellar granule neurons via two distinct mechanisms： the transactivation of insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor and activation of protein kinase C. In addition, a positive allosteric modulator of the GABAB receptor, CGP7930, stimulated Fmrp expression in neurons. Conclusion These results suggest a role for GABAB receptor in Fmrp regulation and a po- tential interest of GABAB receptor signaling in FXS improvement.
基金National Science and Technology Major Project of China (2015ZX09501003).
文摘OBJECTIVE Respiratory depression hinders the use of anaesthetics and sedative hypnotics.For emergency use,specific antagonists are currently administered to counteract respiratory depression.However,antagonists are often short-lasting and can have multiple unexpected side effects.A novel AMPA receptor modulator LCX001,synthesized by our Institute of Medicinal Chemistry,is expected to relieve suppressed respiration.To explore the mechanism and impact of LCX001 on protection against respiratory depression.METHODS LCX001 was tested to alleviate respiratory depression triggered by opioid,propofol and pentobarbital in the plethysmography recording.The acetic acid writhing and hot-plate tests were conducted to evaluate potential analgesic effect of LCX001.Binding assay and whole-cell recording were used to analyze the property of LCX001 on positive modulation.The function of AMPA receptors were determined by location of receptors inthe membrane and state of channel opening,and both processes were impressed by AMPA receptor regulatory proteins.According to the theory,the effect of LCX001 on the expression of stargazin was measured firstly by Western blotting.The variation of receptor surface location were observed by live cell imaging.The regulation on neuronal Ca2+and cell function was investigated intensively by Ca2+imaging to clarify mechanism of LCX001.RESULTS LCX001 effectively rescued and prevented opioid(fentanyl and TH-030418),propofol,and pentobarbitalinduced respiratory depression by strengthening respiratory frequency and minute ventilation by 30%-50% in rats.The acetic acid writhing test and hot-plate test revealed potent anti-nociceptive efficacy of LCX001 on increasing the inhibition rate and %MPE to 80% and 65% respectively,in contrast to some ampakines that did not affect analgesia.Furthermore,LCX001 potentiated[3 H]AMPA and L-glutamate binding affinity to AMPA receptors,and facilitated glutamateevoked inward currents in HEK293 cells stably expressing GluA2(R).At 10 mmol·L^(-1) glutamate evoked amplitudes,LCX001 at 100 μmol·L^(-1) increased the potency of glutamate induced currents by(1120 ± 60) pA,compared with that of(752 ± 35) pA in the control group.LCX001 also prominently promoted steady state/peak amplitude ratio.LCX001 significantly slowed down the desensitization rates of the AMPA ion channel,and inhibited current decay.Importantly,application of LCX001 generated a significant increase in GluA2(R) surface expression in a mechanism of stargazin up-regulation,and restrained opioidinduced abnormal intracel ular Ca2+load,which might participate in breathing modulation.CONCLUSION The typical positive modulatory impact and potential new mechanism of LCX001 might promote ampakines to be a therapeutic option for protection against respiratory depression.
文摘Platelets aggregation and thrombosis formation are major reasons of cardiovascular and cerebral vascular diseases.To develop new generative,potent and safe agents for inhibiting platelet aggregation and preventing above diseases are urgently required.Some traditional Chinese medicines of″Houxue Huayu″have been shown to inhibit platelet aggregation potently.In the present study the mechanisms and the molecular targets of puerarin,salvianolic acid B and the analogue of 3-n-butylphthalide,dl-PHPB were investigated and compared with ticlopidine.Four platelet aggregation inducers,ADP,arachidonic acid,collagen and thrombin were used in the study.It was found that puerarin and dl-PHPB specifically inhibited ADP induced platelet aggregation like ticlopidine did.However,salvianolic acid B inhibited both ADP and collagen induced platelet aggregations with similar potency.Due to existing two ADP receptor subtypes on platelets,P2Y1 and P2Y12,we studied the action of above compounds on the receptors and the signaling pathways.It was found that dl-PHPB decreased IP1 accumulation produced by ADP,but had no effect on IP1 level induced by m-3M3 FBS,an activator of PLC.M-3M3 FBS might attenuate the inhibitory effect of dl-PHPB on ADP-induced platelet aggregation.In addition,dl-PHPB did not affect cyclic AMP formation in platelets by ADP,which is different from P2Y12 antagonist ticlopidine.Puerarin showed the similar effects of dl-PHPB.Therefore,the actions of dl-PHPB and puerarin might be through P2Y1receptor-PLC-βpathway.Salvianolic acid B did not reduce the IP1 accumulation stimulated by ADP.It might act on the receptor subtype P2Y12.Our results suggest that components of Chinese herb medicine might be a resource for development of novel anti-platelet drugs.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China(8147319481773709).
文摘OBJECTIVE Thienorphine,a new oripavine derivative,has shown to possess stronger antinociceptive effects and better oral bioavailability compared to buprenorphine.The present study examines the effect of thienorphine on c AMP-dependent protein kinase A(PKA) activity in CHO cells expressing μ-,κ-,δ-and ORL1 receptors.In addition,we further examined its analgesic effect in vivo.METHODS The effect of thienorphine on cA MP-dependent PKA redistribution and cA MP inhibition were analyzed in CHO-PKAcatEGFP cells.PKA redistribution assays in CHO-PKAcatEGFP cells stably expressing μ-,κ-,δ-and ORL1 receptors were analyzed by high-throughput screening system to elucidate the efficacy of agonists or antagonists on opioid receptors.Moroever,the antinociceptive effects of thienorphine in vivo were examined using hot plate test.RESULTS Briefly,the maximum inhibition of thienorphine on PKA activity was about 36%,100%,100%and 12% in CHO-μ/κ/δ/ORL1-PKAcatE GFP cel s,respectively.In addition,thienorphine concentrationdependently inhibited the PKA activity with EC50 value of(22.7±18.1) nmol·L^(-1) in CHO-κ-PKAcatE GFP cels and(12.4±7.7) nmol·L^(-1) in CHO-δ-PKAcatE GFP cells.Thienorphine induced approximately 50%antinociceptive effect in mice lacking μ receptors compared to their wild-type controls(P<0.05).Also,the κ and δ selective antagonist nor-binaltorphimine,naltrindole decreased approximately 50%-60% in % MPE of theinorphine in μ-KO mice,respectively.The ORL1 receptor selective antagonist J113397 had no effect in %MPE of theinorphine in μ-KO mice.CONCLUSION Thienorphine induces analgesia through bindingκ-and δ-,or by partially binding μ-opioid receptor,thus further regulating the cAMP-PKA activity.Therefore,thienorphine may be used in acute or chronic pain with minimal addictive potential.
文摘OBJECTIVE Cognitive inflexibility plays a critical role in the compulsive drug taking,a central characteristic of drug addictions,yet its underlying neurochemical mechanisms are not well understood.The present study examined the impact of morphine withdrawal on reversal learning.METHODS Reversal learning was tested in a four-choices digging task.Some brain tissues were harvested 2 h after the behavioral experiment for the further measurement.RESULTS We found that after long-term abstinence for a month from chronic morphine exposure,mice exhibited a profound reversal learning deficit.We further found that dopamine D2 receptor(D2R)system in the frontal-striatal circuit is significantly down-regulated,at both receptor and downstream signals levels.Subsequent pharmacological experiments demonstrated that aripiprazole,a D2R partial agonist,prevented the D2R downregulation and rescued the reversal learning deficit.CONCLUSION Together,our findings provide valuable insights into the causal relationship between D2R system in the frontal-striatal circuit and the cognitive inflexibility caused by abused drugs and offer a promising possibility of an effective therapeutic intervention for drug addictions.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China(8187303981973547)Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province(ZR2017MH068)
文摘OBJECTIVE To investigate the anti-rheumatoid arthritis(RA)effect of Escin combined with low dose of GCs(dexameth⁃asone,Dex)and its underlying mechanism.METHODS Adjuvant-induced rheumatoid arthritis rats and LPS-injured RAW 264.7 were used to investigate the anti-RA effects of Escin combined with low dose Dex in vivo and in vitro.In vivo experiment:rats were randomly divided into model group(AIA),dexamethasone high dose(Dex,0.2 mg·kg^-1)group,dexamethasone low dose(Dex,0.05 mg·kg^-1)group,Escin 10 mg·kg^-1 group,Dex 0.05+Escin group,10 rats in each group,another 10 were used as normal control group.The vehicle and the corresponding drug were administered intragastrically(ig)daily for 14 d.In vitro experiment:LPS was used to stimulate RAW 264.7 macrophages for inflammatory models,which were divided into control group,LPS group,Dex with high dose(50 nmol·L^-1)group,and Dex with low dose(12.5 nmol·L^-1)group.In the Escin 10μmol·L^-1 group and the Dex+Escin(12.5 nmol·L^-1+10μmol·L^-1)group,the corresponding drugs were added to each well.After 2 h,LPS was added to induce inflammation.RESULTS Escin combined with low dose Dex significantly decreased arthritic index,serum IL-6 and TNF-α,improved paw swelling,and ameliorated the joint pathology immune organ pathology significantly.Gene chip results revealed that Nr3c1(GR)altered significantly.And that GR activation by Escin and low dose Dex was confirmed both in vivo and in vitro.Furthermore,Escin combined with low dose Dex also significant increase GR mRNA expression.However,when suppression of GR by its specific inhibitor,the anti-RA effect of Escin combined with low dose Dex was abolished.CONCLUSION Escin combined with Dex reduces the dose of Dex,and exerts significant anti-RA effects,which could also reduce the adverse effects of Dex.This combination might be attributed to GR activation.This study might provide a new combination drugs for the treatment of RA.
文摘OBJECTIVE Uridine adenosine tetraphosphate(Up4A),a dinucleotide,contains both purine and pyrimidine moieties,and exerts its vascular influence via activation of purinergic receptors.Here,we aimed to investigate the effects of Up4 A on angiogenesis and the putative purinergic receptors(PR)involved in this process.METHODS Tubule formation assay was performed in 3D matrix system.In this assay,human umbilical vein endothelial cells(HUVECs)were co-cultured with pericytes with various Up4 A doses(0,1,2.5,5,10 and 20μmol·L-1)in the absence and presence of P2Y6 R antagonist MRS2578(10μmol·L-1)for 5d.Expression profile of PR subtypes and angiogenic factors was assessed in HUVECs by q-PCR with and without P2Y6 R antagonist.RESULTS No difference in initial tubule formation was detected between Up4 A stimulation and control conditions at day 2.In contrast,a significant increase in vascular density in response to Up4 A was observed at day 5.Up4 A at a dose of 2.5and 5μmol·L-1 promoted total tubule length(by-1.89 fold and-2.23fold),number of tubules(by-1.71 fold and-1.89fold)as well as number of junctions(by-2.24 fold and-2.80fold),all of which were inhibited by MRS2578.Further increase in Up4 A dose to10 and 20μmol·L-1 did not induce an increase in these vascular parameters as compared to non-treated controls.Moreover,Up4 A increased mRNA level of P2YRs(P2Y2R,P2Y4 R and P2Y6R)but not P2XR(P2X4R and P2X7R)or P1R(A2AR and A2BR),while Up4 A upregulated VEGFA and ANGPT1 but not VEGFR2,ANGPT2,Tie1 and Tie2at mRNA level.Transcriptional upregulation of P2 YRs and angiogenic factors by Up4 A was inhibited by MRS2578.CONCLUSION Up4 A is functionally capable of promoting tubule formation in vitro co-culture system.This process is likely mediated by activation of pyrimidine-favored P2 YRs but not P2 XR or P1 Rs,and involves stimulation of well known angiogenic factors.
