scholarly journals FLCN Gene Ablation Reduces Fibrosis and Inflammation in a Diet-Induced NASH Model

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mathieu Paquette ◽  
Ming Yan ◽  
Leeanna El-Houjeiri ◽  
Marco Biondini ◽  
Josué M. J. Ramírez-Reyes ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Treatment Strategies ◽  
Mrna Translation ◽  
Pharmacological Agents ◽  
Knockout Mouse Model ◽  
Hepatocellular Damage ◽  
Triglyceride Accumulation ◽  
Gene Ablation ◽  
Promising Target ◽  
Lipid Stores

AbstractNon-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) represents a major economic burden and is characterized by triglyceride accumulation, inflammation, and fibrosis. No pharmacological agents are currently approved to treat this condition. Emerging data suggests an important role of autophagy in this condition, which serves to degrade intracellular lipid stores, reduce hepatocellular damage, and dampen inflammation. Autophagy is primarily regulated by the transcription factors TFEB and TFE3, which are negatively regulated by mTORC1. Given that FLCN is an mTORC1 activator via its GAP activity towards RagC/D, we generated a liver specific Flcn knockout mouse model to study its role in NASH progression. We demonstrate that loss of FLCN results in reduced triglyceride accumulation, fibrosis, and inflammation in mice exposed to a NASH-inducing diet. Hence, the GAP activity of FLCN could a promising target for small molecule drugs to treat NASH progression by specifically activating autophagy and lysosomal biogenesis while leaving mRNA translation machinery unperturbed. Collectively, these results show an unexpected role for FLCN in NASH progression and highlight new possibilities for treatment strategies through its role in hepatocyte homeostasis.

The role of GATA3 in breast cancer: An updated review

2021 ◽  
Vol 01 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jing Yang ◽  
Xu Zhao ◽  
Ruoyu Huang ◽  
Juanjuan Zhao ◽  
Mengmeng Guo ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Breast Cancer ◽  
Cancer Cells ◽  
Target Genes ◽  
Treatment Strategies ◽  
Research Progress ◽  
Breast Cancer Patients ◽  
Exact Role ◽  
Promising Target ◽  
Mesenchymal Transformation

: GATA binding protein 3 (GATA3), a member of the zinc finger-binding transcription factor GATA gene family, plays an important role in regulating the development and differentiation of various tissues and organs. Previous studies have manifested that GATA3 is implicated in inhibiting the development of breast cancer, including suppressing the growth, metastasis and invasion of cancer cells. However, the exact role of GATA3 in breast cancer remains to be fully elucidated. Interestingly, recent studies have further shown that GATA3 can regulate a variety of new target genes including ectonucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase 3 (ENTPD3), semaphorin 3B (SEMA3B) and microRNAs (miRNAs) to promote tumorgenisis, epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT) and metastasis of breast cancer. Meanwhile, GATA3 mutations can affect the role of GATA3 in inhibiting the growth and metastasis of breast cancer cells, which indicates that GATA3 might be a promising target for breast cancer treatment. Undoubtedly, these new evidences further uncover the complexity of GATA3/targets network in breast cancer development. In this article, we review related research progress and put forward some questions about the development of GATA3 in future in order to be helpful for the understanding on the exact role of GATA3 in progress of breast cancer and the development of related new clinical treatment strategies that will ultimately benefit the clinical outcome of breast cancer patients.

scholarly journals Emerging Roles for the Gut Microbiome in Lymphoid Neoplasms

2021 ◽  
Vol 15 ◽  
pp. 117955492110241
Author(s):  
Zhuangzhuang Shi ◽  
Mingzhi Zhang
Keyword(s):  
Gut Microbiota ◽  
Gut Microbiome ◽  
Disease Burden ◽  
Molecular Mechanisms ◽  
Treatment Strategies ◽  
Physiological Processes ◽  
Lymphoid Neoplasms ◽  
Promising Target ◽  
Preclinical And Clinical Studies

Lymphoid neoplasms encompass a heterogeneous group of malignancies with a predilection for immunocompromised individuals, and the disease burden of lymphoid neoplasms has been rising globally over the last decade. At the same time, mounting studies delineated a crucial role of the gut microbiome in the aetiopathogenesis of various diseases. Orchestrated interactions between myriad microorganisms and the gastrointestinal mucosa establish a defensive barrier for a range of physiological processes, especially immunity and metabolism. These findings provide new perspectives to harness our knowledge of the gut microbiota for preclinical and clinical studies of lymphoma. Here, we review recent findings that support a role for the gut microbiota in the development of lymphoid neoplasms and pinpoint relevant molecular mechanisms. Accordingly, we propose the microbiota-gut-lymphoma axis as a promising target for clinical translation, including auxiliary diagnosis, novel prevention and treatment strategies, and predicting clinical outcomes and treatment-related adverse effects of the disease in the future. This review will reveal a fascinating avenue of research in the microbiota-mediated lymphoma field.

Haemostatic Platelet Plug Formation in the Isolated Rabbit Mesenteric Preparation - An Analysis of Red Blood Cell Participation

1980 ◽  
Vol 44 (01) ◽  
pp. 006-008 ◽  
Author(s):  
D Bergqvist ◽  
K-E Arfors
Keyword(s):  
Whole Blood ◽  
Platelet Rich Plasma ◽  
Adenosine Diphosphate ◽  
In Vitro Test ◽  
Pharmacological Agents ◽  
Vitro Test ◽  
Releasing Effect ◽  
Plug Formation

SummaryIn a model using an isolated rabbit mesenteric preparation microvessels were transected and the time until haemostatic plugs formed was registered. Perfusion of platelet rich plasma gave no haemostasis whereas whole blood did. Addition of chlorpromazine or adenosine to the whole blood significantly prolonged the time for haemostasis, and addition of ADP to the platelet rich plasma significantly shortened it. It is concluded that red cells are necessary for a normal haemostasis in this model, probably by a combination of a haemodynamic and ADP releasing effect.The fundamental role of platelets in haemostatic plug formation is unquestionable but there are still problems concerning the stimulus for this process to start. Three platelet aggregating substances have been discussed – thrombin, adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and collagen. Evidence speaking in favour of thrombin is, however, very minimal, and the discussion has to be focused on collagen and ADP. In an in vitro system using polyethylene tubings we have shown that "haemostasis" can be obtained without the presence of collagen but against these results can be argued that it is only another in vitro test for platelet aggregation (1).To be able to induce haemostasis in this model, however, the presence of red blood cells is necessary. To further study this problem we have developed a model where haemostatic plug formation can be studied in the isolated rabbit mesentery and we have briefly reported on this (2).Thus, it is possible to perfuse the vessels with whole blood as well as with platelet rich plasma (PRP) and different pharmacological agents of importance.

The Role of Inflammasomes in Atherosclerosis and Stroke Pathogenesis

2020 ◽  
Vol 26 (34) ◽  
pp. 4234-4245
Author(s):  
Deepaneeta Sarmah ◽  
Aishika Datta ◽  
Swapnil Raut ◽  
Ankan Sarkar ◽  
Birva Shah ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Atherosclerotic Plaque ◽  
Treatment Strategies ◽  
Cerebrovascular Diseases ◽  
Cellular Injury ◽  
Inflammatory Reactions ◽  
Inflammatory Pathways

Inflammation is a devastating outcome of cerebrovascular diseases (CVD), namely stroke and atherosclerosis. Numerous studies over the decade have shown that inflammasomes play a role in mediating inflammatory reactions post cellular injury occurring after a stroke or a rupture of an atherosclerotic plaque. In view of this, targeting these inflammatory pathways using different pharmacological therapies may improve outcomes in patients with CVD. Here, we review the mechanisms by which inflammasomes drive the pathogenesis of stroke and atherosclerosis. Also, discussed here are the possible treatment strategies available for inhibiting inflammasomes or their up-stream/down-stream mediators.

Role of Flavonoids in Neurodegenerative Disorders with Special Emphasis on Tangeritin

2019 ◽  
Vol 18 (8) ◽  
pp. 581-597 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ambreen Fatima ◽  
Yasir Hasan Siddique
Keyword(s):  
Medicinal Plants ◽  
Mechanism Of Action ◽  
Neurodegenerative Disorders ◽  
Treatment Strategies ◽  
Dietary Supplementation ◽  
Plant Polyphenols ◽  
Promising Candidate ◽  
Naturally Occurring ◽  
The Brain

Flavonoids are naturally occurring plant polyphenols found universally in all fruits, vegetables and medicinal plants. They have emerged as a promising candidate in the formulation of treatment strategies for various neurodegenerative disorders. The use of flavonoid rich plant extracts and food in dietary supplementation have shown favourable outcomes. The present review describes the types, properties and metabolism of flavonoids. Neuroprotective role of various flavonoids and the possible mechanism of action in the brain against the neurodegeneration have been described in detail with special emphasis on the tangeritin.

scholarly journals Persistent Atrial Fibrillation: The Role of Left Atrial Posterior Wall Isolation and Ablation Strategies

2021 ◽  
Vol 10 (14) ◽  
pp. 3129
Author(s):  
Riyaz A. Kaba ◽  
Aziz Momin ◽  
John Camm
Keyword(s):  
Atrial Fibrillation ◽  
Left Atrial ◽  
Pulmonary Veins ◽  
Treatment Strategies ◽  
Persistent Atrial Fibrillation ◽  
Posterior Wall ◽  
Cardiovascular Death ◽  
Good Effect ◽  
Complex Forms

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a global disease with rapidly rising incidence and prevalence. It is associated with a higher risk of stroke, dementia, cognitive decline, sudden and cardiovascular death, heart failure and impairment in quality of life. The disease is a major burden on the healthcare system. Paroxysmal AF is typically managed with medications or endocardial catheter ablation to good effect. However, a large proportion of patients with AF have persistent or long-standing persistent AF, which are more complex forms of the condition and thus more difficult to treat. This is in part due to the progressive electro-anatomical changes that occur with AF persistence and the spread of arrhythmogenic triggers and substrates outside of the pulmonary veins. The posterior wall of the left atrium is a common site for these changes and has become a target of ablation strategies to treat these more resistant forms of AF. In this review, we discuss the role of the posterior left atrial wall in persistent and long-standing persistent AF, the limitations of current endocardial-focused treatment strategies, and future perspectives on hybrid epicardial–endocardial approaches to posterior wall isolation or ablation.

scholarly journals Transient Receptor Potential C 1/4/5 Is a Determinant of MTI-101 Induced Calcium Influx and Cell Death in Multiple Myeloma

Cells ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 10 (6) ◽  
pp. 1490
Author(s):  
Osama M. Elzamzamy ◽  
Brandon E. Johnson ◽  
Wei-Chih Chen ◽  
Gangqing Hu ◽  
Reinhold Penner ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Myeloma ◽  
Cell Death ◽  
Transient Receptor Potential ◽  
Cyclic Peptide ◽  
Calcium Influx ◽  
Acquired Resistance ◽  
Treatment Strategies ◽  
Prognostic Indicators ◽  
Causative Role

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a currently incurable hematologic cancer. Patients that initially respond to therapeutic intervention eventually relapse with drug resistant disease. Thus, novel treatment strategies are critically needed to improve patient outcomes. Our group has developed a novel cyclic peptide referred to as MTI-101 for the treatment of MM. We previously reported that acquired resistance to HYD-1, the linear form of MTI-101, correlated with the repression of genes involved in store operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE): PLCβ, SERCA, ITPR3, and TRPC1 expression. In this study, we sought to determine the role of TRPC1 heteromers in mediating MTI-101 induced cationic flux. Our data indicate that, consistent with the activation of TRPC heteromers, MTI-101 treatment induced Ca2+ and Na+ influx. However, replacing extracellular Na+ with NMDG did not reduce MTI-101-induced cell death. In contrast, decreasing extracellular Ca2+ reduced both MTI-101-induced Ca2+ influx as well as cell death. The causative role of TRPC heteromers was established by suppressing STIM1, TRPC1, TRPC4, or TRPC5 function both pharmacologically and by siRNA, resulting in a reduction in MTI-101-induced Ca2+ influx. Mechanistically, MTI-101 treatment induces trafficking of TRPC1 to the membrane and co-immunoprecipitation studies indicate that MTI-101 treatment induces a TRPC1-STIM1 complex. Moreover, treatment with calpeptin inhibited MTI-101-induced Ca2+ influx and cell death, indicating a role of calpain in the mechanism of MTI-101-induced cytotoxicity. Finally, components of the SOCE pathway were found to be poor prognostic indicators among MM patients, suggesting that this pathway is attractive for the treatment of MM.

scholarly journals Drug Resistance in Osteosarcoma: Emerging Biomarkers, Therapeutic Targets and Treatment Strategies

Cancers ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (12) ◽  
pp. 2878
Author(s):  
Claudia Maria Hattinger ◽  
Maria Pia Patrizio ◽  
Leonardo Fantoni ◽  
Chiara Casotti ◽  
Chiara Riganti ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Drug Resistance ◽  
Therapeutic Targets ◽  
Treatment Strategies ◽  
Cure Rate ◽  
Acquired Drug Resistance ◽  
Unselected Patient ◽  
Dismal Prognosis ◽  
Non Coding Rnas ◽  
High Grade Osteosarcoma

High-grade osteosarcoma (HGOS), the most common primary malignant tumor of bone, is a highly aggressive neoplasm with a cure rate of approximately 40–50% in unselected patient populations. The major clinical problems opposing the cure of HGOS are the presence of inherent or acquired drug resistance and the development of metastasis. Since the drugs used in first-line chemotherapy protocols for HGOS and clinical outcome have not significantly evolved in the past three decades, there is an urgent need for new therapeutic biomarkers and targeted treatment strategies, which may increase the currently available spectrum of cure modalities. Unresponsive or chemoresistant (refractory) HGOS patients usually encounter a dismal prognosis, mostly because therapeutic options and drugs effective for rescue treatments are scarce. Tailored treatments for different subgroups of HGOS patients stratified according to drug resistance-related biomarkers thus appear as an option that may improve this situation. This review explores drug resistance-related biomarkers, therapeutic targets and new candidate treatment strategies, which have emerged in HGOS. In addition to consolidated biomarkers, specific attention has been paid to the role of non-coding RNAs, tumor-derived extracellular vesicles, and cancer stem cells as contributors to drug resistance in HGOS, in order to highlight new candidate markers and therapeutic targets. The possible use of new non-conventional drugs to overcome the main mechanisms of drug resistance in HGOS are finally discussed.

scholarly journals Cathepsin L plays a key role in SARS-CoV-2 infection in humans and humanized mice and is a promising target for new drug development

2021 ◽  
Vol 6 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Miao-Miao Zhao ◽  
Wei-Li Yang ◽  
Fang-Yuan Yang ◽  
Li Zhang ◽  
Wei-Jin Huang ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Drug Development ◽  
Cathepsin L ◽  
Human Cells ◽  
New Drugs ◽  
Disease Course ◽  
Promising Target ◽  
First Time

AbstractTo discover new drugs to combat COVID-19, an understanding of the molecular basis of SARS-CoV-2 infection is urgently needed. Here, for the first time, we report the crucial role of cathepsin L (CTSL) in patients with COVID-19. The circulating level of CTSL was elevated after SARS-CoV-2 infection and was positively correlated with disease course and severity. Correspondingly, SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus infection increased CTSL expression in human cells in vitro and human ACE2 transgenic mice in vivo, while CTSL overexpression, in turn, enhanced pseudovirus infection in human cells. CTSL functionally cleaved the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and enhanced virus entry, as evidenced by CTSL overexpression and knockdown in vitro and application of CTSL inhibitor drugs in vivo. Furthermore, amantadine, a licensed anti-influenza drug, significantly inhibited CTSL activity after SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus infection and prevented infection both in vitro and in vivo. Therefore, CTSL is a promising target for new anti-COVID-19 drug development.

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