Background The two most basic properties of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are the capacities to selfrenew indefinitely and differentiate into multiple cells and tissue types. The cells from human umbilical cord Whar...Background The two most basic properties of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are the capacities to selfrenew indefinitely and differentiate into multiple cells and tissue types. The cells from human umbilical cord Wharton' s Jelly have properties of MSCs and represent a rich source of primitive cells. This study was conducted to explore the possibility of inducing human umbilical cord Wharton' s Jelly-derived MSCs to differentiate into nerve-like cells.Methods MSCs were cultured from the Wharton' s Jelly taken from human umbilical cord of babies delivered after full-term normal labor. Salvia miltiorrhiza and [3-mercaptoethanol were used to induce the human umbilical cord-derived MSCs to differentiate The expression of neural protein markers was shown by immunocytochemistry. The induction process was monitored by phase contrast microscopy, electron microscopy (EM), and laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM) . The pleiotrophin and nestin genes were measured by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).Results MSCs in the Wharton' s Jelly were easily attainable and could be maintained and expanded in culture. They were positive for markers of MSCs, but negative for markers of hematopoietic cells and graft-versus-host disease (GVHD)-related cells. Treatment with Salvia mihiorrhiza caused Wharton' s Jelly cells to undergo profound morphological changes. The induced MSCs developed rounded cell bodies with multiple neurite-like extensions. Eventually they developed processes that formed networks reminiscent of primary cultures of neurons. Salvia mihiorrhiza and β-mercaptoethanol also induced MSCs to express nestin, β-tubulin Ⅲ, neurofilament (NF) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). It was confirmed by RT-PCR that MSCs could express pleiotrophin both before and after induction by Salvia miltiorrhiza. The expression was markedly enhanced after induction and the nestin gene was also expressed.Conclusions MSCs could be isolated from human umbilical cord Wharto展开更多
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia.It is an increasingly serious global health problem and has a significant impact on individuals and society.However,the precise cause of Alzheimer’s disease i...Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia.It is an increasingly serious global health problem and has a significant impact on individuals and society.However,the precise cause of Alzheimer’s disease is still unknown.In this study,11,748 Web-of-Science-indexed manuscripts regarding Alzheimer’s disease,all published from 2015 to 2019,and their 693,938 references were analyzed.A document co-citation network map was drawn using CiteSpace software.Research frontiers and development trends were determined by retrieving subject headings with apparent changing word frequency trends,which can be used to forecast future research developments in Alzheimer’s disease.展开更多
Evidence suggests that autophagy may be a new therapeutic target for stroke, but whether acti- vation of autophagy increases or decreases the rate of neuronal death is still under debate. This review summarizes the po...Evidence suggests that autophagy may be a new therapeutic target for stroke, but whether acti- vation of autophagy increases or decreases the rate of neuronal death is still under debate. This review summarizes the potential role and possible signaling pathway of autophagy in neuronal survival after cerebral ischemia and proposes that autophagy has dual effects.展开更多
Ligustrazine (2,3,5,6-tetramethylpyrazine) is a major active ingredient of the Szechwan lovage rhizome and is extensively used in treatment of ischemic cerebrovascular disease. The mecha- nism of action of ligustraz...Ligustrazine (2,3,5,6-tetramethylpyrazine) is a major active ingredient of the Szechwan lovage rhizome and is extensively used in treatment of ischemic cerebrovascular disease. The mecha- nism of action of ligustrazine use against ischemic cerebrovascular diseases remains unclear at present. This study summarizes its protective effect, the optimum time window of administra- tion, and the most effective mode of administration for clinical treatment of cerebral ischemia/ reperfusion injury. We examine the effects of ligustrazine on suppressing excitatory amino acid release, promoting migration, differentiation and proliferation of endogenous neural stem cells. We also looked at its effects on angiogenesis and how it inhibits thrombosis, the inflammatory response, and apoptosis after cerebral ischemia. We consider that ligustrazine gives noticeable protection from cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury. The time window of ligustrazine admin- istration is limited. The protective effect and time window of a series of derivative monomers of ligustrazine such as 2-[(1,1-dimethylethyl)oxidoimino]methyl]-3,5,6-trimethylpyrazine, CXC137 and CXC 195 after cerebral ischemia were better than ligustrazine.展开更多
Puerarin suppresses autophagy to alleviate cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury, and accumulating evidence indicates that the AMPKm TOR signaling pathway regulates the activation of the autophagy pathway through the c...Puerarin suppresses autophagy to alleviate cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury, and accumulating evidence indicates that the AMPKm TOR signaling pathway regulates the activation of the autophagy pathway through the coordinated phosphorylation of ULK1. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms underlying the neuroprotective effect of puerarin and its role in modulating autophagy via the AMPK-m TOR-ULK1 signaling pathway in the rat middle cerebral artery occlusion model of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury. Rats were intraperitoneally injected with puerarin, 50 or 100 mg/kg, daily for 7 days. Then, 30 minutes after the final administration, rats were subjected to transient middle cerebral artery occlusion for 90 minutes. Then, after 24 hours of reperfusion, the Longa score and infarct volume were evaluated in each group. Autophagosome formation was observed by transmission electron microscopy. LC3, Beclin-1 p62, AMPK, m TOR and ULK1 protein expression levels were examined by immunofluorescence and western blot assay. Puerarin substantially reduced the Longa score and infarct volume, and it lessened autophagosome formation in the hippocampal CA1 area following cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury in a dose-dependent manner. Pretreatment with puerarin(50 or 100 mg/kg) reduced Beclin-1 expression and the LC3-II/LC3-I ratio, as well as p-AMPK and p S317-ULK1 levels. In comparison, it increased p62 expression. Furthermore, puerarin at 100 mg/kg dramatically increased the levels of p-m TOR and p S757-ULK1 in the hippocampus on the ischemic side. Our findings suggest that puerarin alleviates autophagy by activating the APMK-m TOR-ULK1 signaling pathway. Thus, puerarin might have therapeutic potential for treating cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury.展开更多
Melatonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid(GABA) have been shown to regulate sleep. The nocturnal concentrations of melatonin, GABA and total antioxidants may relate to insomnia in stroke patients. In this prospective si...Melatonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid(GABA) have been shown to regulate sleep. The nocturnal concentrations of melatonin, GABA and total antioxidants may relate to insomnia in stroke patients. In this prospective single-center non-randomized controlled clinical trial performed in the China Rehabilitation Research Center, we analyzed the relationship of nocturnal concentrations of melatonin, GABA and total antioxidants with insomnia after stroke. Patients during rehabilitation of stroke were recruited and assigned to the insomnia group or non-insomnia group. Simultaneously, persons without stroke or insomnia served as normal controls. Each group contained 25 cases. The primary outcome was nocturnal concentrations of melatonin, GABA and total antioxidants in peripheral blood. The secondary outcomes were Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Insomnia Severity Index, Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Fatigue Severity Scale, Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire(Chinese version), and National Institute of Health Stroke Scale. The relationship of nocturnal concentrations of melatonin, GABA and total antioxidants with insomnia after stroke was analyzed and showed that they were lower in the insomnia group than in the non-insomnia group. The severity of stroke was higher in the insomnia group than in the non-insomnia group. Correlation analysis demonstrated that the nocturnal concentrations of melatonin and GABA were associated with insomnia after stroke. This trial was registered at Clinical Trials.gov, identifier: NCT03202121.展开更多
Electroacupuncture is known as an effective adjuvant therapy in ischemic cerebrovascular disease. However, its underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Studies suggest that autophagy, which is essential for cell survival...Electroacupuncture is known as an effective adjuvant therapy in ischemic cerebrovascular disease. However, its underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Studies suggest that autophagy, which is essential for cell survival and cell death, is involved in cerebral ischemia reperfusion injury and might be modulate by electroacupuncture therapy in key ways. This paper aims to provide novel insights into a therapeutic target of electroacupuncture against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury from the perspective of autophagy. Here we review recent studies on electroacupuncture regulation of autophagy-related markers such as UNC-51-like kinase-1 complex, Beclin1, microtubule-associated protein-1 light chain 3, p62, and autophagosomes for treating cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury. The results of these studies show that electroacupuncture may affect the initiation of autophagy, vesicle nucleation, expansion and maturation of autophagosomes, as well as fusion and degradation of autophagolysosomes. Moreover, studies indicate that electroacupuncture probably modulates autophagy by activating the mammalian target of the rapamycin signaling pathway.This review thus indicates that autophagy is a therapeutic target of electroacupuncture treatment against ischemic cerebrovascular diseases.展开更多
Epalrestat is a noncompetitive and reversible aldose reductase inhibitor used for the treatment of diabetic neuropathy. This study assumed that epalrestat had a protective effect on diabetic peripheral nerve injury by...Epalrestat is a noncompetitive and reversible aldose reductase inhibitor used for the treatment of diabetic neuropathy. This study assumed that epalrestat had a protective effect on diabetic peripheral nerve injury by suppressing the expression of aldose reductase in peripheral nerves of diabetes mellitus rats. The high-fat and high-carbohydrate model rats were established by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin. Peripheral neuropathy occurred in these rats after sustaining high blood glucose for 8 weeks. At 12 weeks after streptozotocin injection, rats were intragastrically administered epalrestat 100 mg/kg daily for 6 weeks. Transmission electron microscope revealed that the injuries to myelinated nerve fibers, non-myelinated nerve fibers and Schwann cells of rat sciatic nerves had reduced compared to rats without epalrestat administuation. Western blot assay and immunohistochemical results demonstrated that after intervention with epalrestat, the activities of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase gradually increased, but aldose reductase protein expression gradually diminished. Results confirmed that epalrestat could protect against diabetic peripheral neuropathy by relieving oxidative stress and suppressing the polyol pathway.展开更多
3-N-butylphthalide is an ettectwe drug for acute iscemlc stroke. However, its effects on cnromc cerebral ischemia-induced neuronal injury remain poorly understood. Therefore, this study li- gated bilateral carotid art...3-N-butylphthalide is an ettectwe drug for acute iscemlc stroke. However, its effects on cnromc cerebral ischemia-induced neuronal injury remain poorly understood. Therefore, this study li- gated bilateral carotid arteries in 15-month-old rats to simulate chronic cerebral ischemia in aged humans. Aged rats were then intragastrically administered 3-n-butylphthalide. 3-N-butylphtha- lide administration improved the neuronal morphology in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus of rats with chronic cerebral ischemia, increased choline acetyltransferase activity, and decreased malondialdehyde and amyloid beta levels, and greatly improved cognitive function. These findings suggest that 3-n-butylphthalide alleviates oxidative stress caused by chronic cerebral ischemia, improves cholinergic function, and inhibits amyloid beta accumulation, thereby im- proving cerebral neuronal injury and cognitive deficits.展开更多
Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent novel cell death pathway. Deferoxamine, a ferroptosis inhibitor, has been reported to promote spinal cord injury repair. It has yet to be clarified whether ferroptosis inhibition repre...Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent novel cell death pathway. Deferoxamine, a ferroptosis inhibitor, has been reported to promote spinal cord injury repair. It has yet to be clarified whether ferroptosis inhibition represents the mechanism of action of Deferoxamine on spinal cord injury recovery. A rat model of Deferoxamine at thoracic 10 segment was established using a modified Allen's method. Ninety 8-week-old female Wistar rats were used. Rats in the Deferoxamine group were intraperitoneally injected with 100 mg/kg Deferoxamine 30 minutes before injury. Simultaneously, the Sham and Deferoxamine groups served as controls. Drug administration was conducted for 7 consecutive days. The results were as follows:(1) Electron microscopy revealed shrunken mitochondria in the spinal cord injury group.(2) The Basso, Beattie and Bresnahan locomotor rating score showed that recovery of the hindlimb was remarkably better in the Deferoxamine group than in the spinal cord injury group.(3) The iron concentration was lower in the Deferoxamine group than in the spinal cord injury group after injury.(4) Western blot assay revealed that, compared with the spinal cord injury group, GPX4, xCT, and glutathione expression was markedly increased in the Deferoxamine group.(5) Real-time polymerase chain reaction revealed that, compared with the Deferoxamine group, mRNA levels of ferroptosis-related genes Acyl-CoA synthetase family member 2(ACSF2) and iron-responsive element-binding protein 2(IREB2) were up-regulated in the Deferoxamine group.(6) Deferoxamine increased survival of neurons and inhibited gliosis. These findings confirm that Deferoxamine can repair spinal cord injury by inhibiting ferroptosis. Targeting ferroptosis is therefore a promising therapeutic approach for spinal cord injury.展开更多
Nociception is an important physiological process that detects harmful signals and results in pain perception. In this review, we discuss important experimental evidence involving some TRP ion channels as molecular se...Nociception is an important physiological process that detects harmful signals and results in pain perception. In this review, we discuss important experimental evidence involving some TRP ion channels as molecular sensors of chemical, thermal, and mechanical noxious stimuli to evoke the pain and itch sensations. Among them are the TRPA1 channel, members of the vanilloid subfamily (TRPV1, TRPV3, and TRPV4), and finally members of the melastatin group (TRPM2, TRPM3, and TRPMS). Given that pain and itch are pro-survival, evolutionarily-honed protective mechanisms, care has to be exercised when developing inhibitory/modulatory com- pounds targeting specific pain/itch-TRPs so that physio- logical protective mechanisms are not disabled to a degree that stimulus-mediated injury can occur. Such events have impeded the development of safe and effective TRPV1- modulating compounds and have diverted substantial resources. A beneficial outcome can be readily accom- plished via simple dosing strategies, and also by incorpo- rating medicinal chemistry design features during compound design and synthesis. Beyond clinical use, where compounds that target more than one channel might have a place and possibly have advantageous features, highly specific and high-potency compounds will be helpful in mechanistic discovery at the structure-function level.展开更多
Low frequency (≤ 1 Hz) repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) can affect the excitability of the cerebral cortex and synaptic plasticity. Although this is a common method for clinical treatment of ce...Low frequency (≤ 1 Hz) repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) can affect the excitability of the cerebral cortex and synaptic plasticity. Although this is a common method for clinical treatment of cerebral infarction, whether it promotes the recovery of motor function remains controversial. Twenty patients with cerebral infarction combined with hemiparalysis were equally and randomly divided into a low frequency rTMS group and a control group. The patients in the low frequency rTMS group were given 1-Hz rTMS to the contralateral primary motor cortex with a stimulus intensity of 90% motor threshold, 30 minutes/day. The patients in the control group were given sham stimulation. After 14 days of treatment, clinical function scores (National Institute of Health Stroke Scale, Barthel Index, and Fugl-Meyer Assessment) improved significantly in the low frequency rTMS group, and the effects were better than that in the control group. We conclude that low frequency (1 Hz) rTMS for 14 days can help improve motor function after cerebral infarction.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:This meta-analysis was performed to systematically assess the efficacy and safety of the Chinese herbal medicine Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu Decoction(HGWWD) for treating diabetic peripheral neuropathy.DATA SOUR...OBJECTIVE:This meta-analysis was performed to systematically assess the efficacy and safety of the Chinese herbal medicine Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu Decoction(HGWWD) for treating diabetic peripheral neuropathy.DATA SOURCES:Six electronic databases,including the Cochrane Library,MEDLINE database,Chinese Biomedical Database,Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure Database,Chinese Science and Technique Journals Database,and the Wanfang Database,were search ed on the internet for randomized controlled trials published up until 1 December 2015.The search terms included "Chinese herbal medicine","diabetic peripheral neuropathy" and "randomized controlled trials" in Chinese and in English.DATA SELECTION:We included randomized controlled trials using HGWWD/modified HGWWD for the treatment group,without restriction for the control group.We assessed literature quality in accordance with the Cochrane Review Handbook.A random or a fixed effects model was used to analyze outcomes using Rev Man 5.2 software.OUTCOME MEASURES:The primary outcomes were changes in symptoms and nerve conduction velocities.The secondary outcomeswere fasting blood glucose and hemorheological indexes.RESULTS:Sixteen randomized controlled trials,with a total of 1,173 patients,were included.Meta-analysis revealed that the efficacy of HGWWD for diabetic peripheral neuropathy was significantly superior compared with the control treatment(i.e.,control group)(risk ratio = 0.36,95% confidence interval(CI):0.29–0.46,Z =8.33,P 〈 0.00001) Compared with the control group,there was an increase in median motor nerve conduction velocity(mean difference(MD) = 3.46,95%CI:1.88–5.04,Z = 4.30,P 〈 0.01) and median sensory nerve conduction velocity(MD = 3.30,95%CI:2.04–4.56,Z = 5.14,P 〈 0.01).There was also an increase in peroneal motor nerve conduction velocity(MD = 3.22,95%CI:2.45–3.98,Z = 8.21,P 〈 0.01) and peroneal sensory nerve conduction velocity(MD = 3.05,95%CI:2.01–4.09,Z = 5.75,P 〈 展开更多
Objective: Acupuncture has a definite therapeutic effect on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway (CAP) has been shown to be involved in regula- tion of infla...Objective: Acupuncture has a definite therapeutic effect on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway (CAP) has been shown to be involved in regula- tion of inflammation. In this study, we investigated whether electro-acupuncture (EA) affects the CAP in COPD,Methods: Sprague-Dawley rats were induced into COPD through exposure to cigarette smoke combined with lipopolysaccharide. EA treatment was applied at Zusanli (ST36) and Feishu (BL13) points for 30 min/d for 7 d. Seventy-two rats were randomly divided into six study groups, including normal, normal + EA, normal + α-bungarotoxin (α-BGT) (the antagonist of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor α7 subunit (α7nAChR)) + EA, COPD, COPD + EA, and COPD + α-BGT + EA. Lung function, pathology and vagus nerve discharge were tested. The levels of acetylcholine (ACh), acetylcholinesterase (ACHE), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-ct) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and lung tissue were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The mRNA and protein expression and immunoreac- tivity of α7nAChR and its postreceptor inflammation signal pathway, including janus kinase 2 (JAK2), sig- nal transducers and activators of transcription 3 (STAT3), nuclear factor-KB (NF-KB), were observed by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, Western blot and immunohistochemistry. Results: Compared with normal rats, there were a significant decline in lung function and discharge of the vagus nerve (P 〈 0.01), a marked sign of lung inflammation and an increase of ACh, ACHE, IL-6 and TNF-α level in BALF or lung tissue (P 〈 0.05, P 〈 0.01 ) and higher expression of 0t7nAChR, JAK2, STAT3 and NF-αB (P 〈 0.05, P 〈 0.01) in the COPD rats. In rats receiving EA, the lung function and vagal discharge were enhanced (P 〈 0.01 ), lung inflammation was improved and the levels of ACh, ACHE, IL-展开更多
Functional magnetic resonance imaging has been widely used to investigate the effects of acupuncture on neural activity. However, most functional magnetic resonance imaging studies have focused on acute changes in bra...Functional magnetic resonance imaging has been widely used to investigate the effects of acupuncture on neural activity. However, most functional magnetic resonance imaging studies have focused on acute changes in brain activation induced by acupuncture. Thus, the time course of the therapeutic effects of acupuncture remains unclear. In this study, 32 patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment were randomly divided into two groups, where they received either Tiaoshen Yizhi acupuncture or sham acupoint acupuncture. The needles were either twirled at Tiaoshen Yizhi acupoints, including Sishencong(EX-HN1), Yintang(EX-HN3), Neiguan(PC6), Taixi(KI3), Fenglong(ST40), and Taichong(LR3), or at related sham acupoints at a depth of approximately 15 mm, an angle of ± 60°, and a rate of approximately 120 times per minute. Acupuncture was conducted for 4 consecutive weeks, five times per week, on weekdays. Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging indicated that connections between cognition-related regions such as the insula, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, thalamus, inferior parietal lobule, and anterior cingulate cortex increased after acupuncture at Tiaoshen Yizhi acupoints. The insula, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, and hippocampus acted as central brain hubs. Patients in the Tiaoshen Yizhi group exhibited improved cognitive performance after acupuncture. In the sham acupoint acupuncture group, connections between brain regions were dispersed, and we found no differences in cognitive function following the treatment. These results indicate that acupuncture at Tiaoshen Yizhi acupoints can regulate brain networks by increasing connectivity between cognition-related regions, thereby improving cognitive function in patients with mild cognitive impairment.展开更多
Nicotiflorin is a flavonoid extracted from Carthamus tinctorius.Previous studies have shown its cerebral protective effect,but the mechanism is undefined.In this study,we aimed to determine whether nicotiflorin protec...Nicotiflorin is a flavonoid extracted from Carthamus tinctorius.Previous studies have shown its cerebral protective effect,but the mechanism is undefined.In this study,we aimed to determine whether nicotiflorin protects against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury-induced apoptosis through the JAK2/STAT3 pathway.The cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury model was established by middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion.Nicotiflorin(10 mg/kg) was administered by tail vein injection.Cell apoptosis in the ischemic cerebral cortex was examined by hematoxylin-eosin staining and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase d UTP nick end labeling assay.Bcl-2 and Bax expression levels in ischemic cerebral cortex were examined by immunohistochemial staining.Additionally,p-JAK2,p-STAT3,Bcl-2,Bax,and caspase-3 levels in ischemic cerebral cortex were examined by western blot assay.Nicotiflorin altered the shape and structure of injured neurons,decreased the number of apoptotic cells,down-regulates expression of p-JAK2,p-STAT3,caspase-3,and Bax,decreased Bax immunoredactivity,and increased Bcl-2 protein expression and immunoreactivity.These results suggest that nicotiflorin protects against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury-induced apoptosis via the JAK2/STAT3 pathway.展开更多
Spinal cord injury is linked to the interruption of neural pathways,which results in irreversible neural dysfunction.Neural repair and neuroregeneration are critical goals and issues for rehabilitation in spinal cord ...Spinal cord injury is linked to the interruption of neural pathways,which results in irreversible neural dysfunction.Neural repair and neuroregeneration are critical goals and issues for rehabilitation in spinal cord injury,which require neural stem cell repair and multimodal neuromodulation techniques involving personalized rehabilitation strategies.Besides the involvement of endogenous stem cells in neurogenesis and neural repair,exogenous neural stem cell transplantation is an emerging effective method for repairing and replacing damaged tissues in central nervous system diseases.However,to ensure that endogenous or exogenous neural stem cells truly participate in neural repair following spinal cord injury,appropriate interventional measures(e.g.,neuromodulation)should be adopted.Neuromodulation techniques,such as noninvasive magnetic stimulation and electrical stimulation,have been safely applied in many neuropsychiatric diseases.There is increasing evidence to suggest that neuromagnetic/electrical modulation promotes neuroregeneration and neural repair by affecting signaling in the nervous system;namely,by exciting,inhibiting,or regulating neuronal and neural network activities to improve motor function and motor learning following spinal cord injury.Several studies have indicated that fine motor skill rehabilitation training makes use of residual nerve fibers for collateral growth,encourages the formation of new synaptic connections to promote neural plasticity,and improves motor function recovery in patients with spinal cord injury.With the development of biomaterial technology and biomechanical engineering,several emerging treatments have been developed,such as robots,brain-computer interfaces,and nanomaterials.These treatments have the potential to help millions of patients suffering from motor dysfunction caused by spinal cord injury.However,large-scale clinical trials need to be conducted to validate their efficacy.This review evaluated the efficacy of neural stem cells and magnetic or electrical stimu展开更多
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive treatment that can enhance the recovery of neurological function after stroke. Whether it can similarly promote the recovery of cognitive functio...Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive treatment that can enhance the recovery of neurological function after stroke. Whether it can similarly promote the recovery of cognitive function after vascular dementia remains unknown, In this study, a rat model for vascular dementia was established by the two-vessel occlusion method. Two days after injury, 30 pulses of rTMS were ad- ministered to each cerebral hemisphere at a frequency of 0.5 Hz and a magnetic field intensity of 1,33 T. The Morris water maze test was used to evaluate learning and memory function. The Karnovsky-Roots method was performed to determine the density of cholinergic neurons in the hippocampal CA1 region. Immunohistochemical staining was used to determine the number of brain-derived neurotroph- ic factor (BDNF)-immunoreactive cells in the hippocampal CA1 region, rTMS treatment for 30 days significantly improved learning and memory function, increased acetylcholinesterase and choline acetyltransferase activity, increased the density of cholinergic neurons, and increased the number of BDNF-immunoreactive cells. These results indicate that rTMS can ameliorate learning and memory deficiencies in rats with vascular dementia, The mechanism through which this occurs might be related to the promotion of BDNF expression and subsequent restoration of cholinergic system activity in hippocampal CA 1 region.展开更多
Objective To investigate the effect of rat Schwann cell secretion on the proliferation and differentiation of human embryonic neural stem cells (NSCs). Methods The samples were divided into three groups. In Group One,...Objective To investigate the effect of rat Schwann cell secretion on the proliferation and differentiation of human embryonic neural stem cells (NSCs). Methods The samples were divided into three groups. In Group One, NSCs were cultured in DMED/F12 in which Schwann cells had grown for one day. In Group Two, NSCs and Schwann cells were co-cultured. In Group Three, NSCs were cultured in DMEM/F12. The morphology of NSCs was checked and β-tubulin, GalC, hoechst 33342 and GFAP labellings were detected. Results In Group One, all neural spheres were attached to the bottom and differentiated. The majority of them were p-tubulin positive while a few of cells were GFAP or GalC positive. In Group Two, neural spheres remained undifferentiatied and their proliferation was inhibited in places where Schwann cells were robust. In places where there were few Schwann cells, NSCs performed in a similar manner as in Group One. In Group Three, the cell growth state deteriorated day after day. On the 7th day, most NSCs died. Conclusion The secretion of rat Schwann cells has a growth supportive and differentiation-inducing effect on human NSCs.展开更多
文摘Background The two most basic properties of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are the capacities to selfrenew indefinitely and differentiate into multiple cells and tissue types. The cells from human umbilical cord Wharton' s Jelly have properties of MSCs and represent a rich source of primitive cells. This study was conducted to explore the possibility of inducing human umbilical cord Wharton' s Jelly-derived MSCs to differentiate into nerve-like cells.Methods MSCs were cultured from the Wharton' s Jelly taken from human umbilical cord of babies delivered after full-term normal labor. Salvia miltiorrhiza and [3-mercaptoethanol were used to induce the human umbilical cord-derived MSCs to differentiate The expression of neural protein markers was shown by immunocytochemistry. The induction process was monitored by phase contrast microscopy, electron microscopy (EM), and laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM) . The pleiotrophin and nestin genes were measured by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).Results MSCs in the Wharton' s Jelly were easily attainable and could be maintained and expanded in culture. They were positive for markers of MSCs, but negative for markers of hematopoietic cells and graft-versus-host disease (GVHD)-related cells. Treatment with Salvia mihiorrhiza caused Wharton' s Jelly cells to undergo profound morphological changes. The induced MSCs developed rounded cell bodies with multiple neurite-like extensions. Eventually they developed processes that formed networks reminiscent of primary cultures of neurons. Salvia mihiorrhiza and β-mercaptoethanol also induced MSCs to express nestin, β-tubulin Ⅲ, neurofilament (NF) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). It was confirmed by RT-PCR that MSCs could express pleiotrophin both before and after induction by Salvia miltiorrhiza. The expression was markedly enhanced after induction and the nestin gene was also expressed.Conclusions MSCs could be isolated from human umbilical cord Wharto
文摘Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia.It is an increasingly serious global health problem and has a significant impact on individuals and society.However,the precise cause of Alzheimer’s disease is still unknown.In this study,11,748 Web-of-Science-indexed manuscripts regarding Alzheimer’s disease,all published from 2015 to 2019,and their 693,938 references were analyzed.A document co-citation network map was drawn using CiteSpace software.Research frontiers and development trends were determined by retrieving subject headings with apparent changing word frequency trends,which can be used to forecast future research developments in Alzheimer’s disease.
基金supported by grants from the project of National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.31171014 and 31371065the project of Science and Technology Commission of Board of Health of Shanghai,China,No.20134125the Key Specialty(disease) Declaration of Pudong New Area’s Health System
文摘Evidence suggests that autophagy may be a new therapeutic target for stroke, but whether acti- vation of autophagy increases or decreases the rate of neuronal death is still under debate. This review summarizes the potential role and possible signaling pathway of autophagy in neuronal survival after cerebral ischemia and proposes that autophagy has dual effects.
基金supported by a grant from the Health and Family Planning Commission of Heilongjiang Province Research Project in China,No.2014-195the Education Department Science and Technology Foundation of Heilongjiang Province in China,No.12531741the Natural Science Foundation of Heilongjiang Province of China,No.H2015083
文摘Ligustrazine (2,3,5,6-tetramethylpyrazine) is a major active ingredient of the Szechwan lovage rhizome and is extensively used in treatment of ischemic cerebrovascular disease. The mecha- nism of action of ligustrazine use against ischemic cerebrovascular diseases remains unclear at present. This study summarizes its protective effect, the optimum time window of administra- tion, and the most effective mode of administration for clinical treatment of cerebral ischemia/ reperfusion injury. We examine the effects of ligustrazine on suppressing excitatory amino acid release, promoting migration, differentiation and proliferation of endogenous neural stem cells. We also looked at its effects on angiogenesis and how it inhibits thrombosis, the inflammatory response, and apoptosis after cerebral ischemia. We consider that ligustrazine gives noticeable protection from cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury. The time window of ligustrazine admin- istration is limited. The protective effect and time window of a series of derivative monomers of ligustrazine such as 2-[(1,1-dimethylethyl)oxidoimino]methyl]-3,5,6-trimethylpyrazine, CXC137 and CXC 195 after cerebral ischemia were better than ligustrazine.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81202625the Open Fund of Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases Translational Medicine,China Three Gorges University,China,No.2016xnxg101
文摘Puerarin suppresses autophagy to alleviate cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury, and accumulating evidence indicates that the AMPKm TOR signaling pathway regulates the activation of the autophagy pathway through the coordinated phosphorylation of ULK1. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms underlying the neuroprotective effect of puerarin and its role in modulating autophagy via the AMPK-m TOR-ULK1 signaling pathway in the rat middle cerebral artery occlusion model of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury. Rats were intraperitoneally injected with puerarin, 50 or 100 mg/kg, daily for 7 days. Then, 30 minutes after the final administration, rats were subjected to transient middle cerebral artery occlusion for 90 minutes. Then, after 24 hours of reperfusion, the Longa score and infarct volume were evaluated in each group. Autophagosome formation was observed by transmission electron microscopy. LC3, Beclin-1 p62, AMPK, m TOR and ULK1 protein expression levels were examined by immunofluorescence and western blot assay. Puerarin substantially reduced the Longa score and infarct volume, and it lessened autophagosome formation in the hippocampal CA1 area following cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury in a dose-dependent manner. Pretreatment with puerarin(50 or 100 mg/kg) reduced Beclin-1 expression and the LC3-II/LC3-I ratio, as well as p-AMPK and p S317-ULK1 levels. In comparison, it increased p62 expression. Furthermore, puerarin at 100 mg/kg dramatically increased the levels of p-m TOR and p S757-ULK1 in the hippocampus on the ischemic side. Our findings suggest that puerarin alleviates autophagy by activating the APMK-m TOR-ULK1 signaling pathway. Thus, puerarin might have therapeutic potential for treating cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury.
基金supported by the Optional Research Project of China Rehabilitation Research Center,No.2014-7the Sub-Project under National“Twelfth Five-Year”Plan for Science&Technology Support Project,No.2011BAI08B11
文摘Melatonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid(GABA) have been shown to regulate sleep. The nocturnal concentrations of melatonin, GABA and total antioxidants may relate to insomnia in stroke patients. In this prospective single-center non-randomized controlled clinical trial performed in the China Rehabilitation Research Center, we analyzed the relationship of nocturnal concentrations of melatonin, GABA and total antioxidants with insomnia after stroke. Patients during rehabilitation of stroke were recruited and assigned to the insomnia group or non-insomnia group. Simultaneously, persons without stroke or insomnia served as normal controls. Each group contained 25 cases. The primary outcome was nocturnal concentrations of melatonin, GABA and total antioxidants in peripheral blood. The secondary outcomes were Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Insomnia Severity Index, Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Fatigue Severity Scale, Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire(Chinese version), and National Institute of Health Stroke Scale. The relationship of nocturnal concentrations of melatonin, GABA and total antioxidants with insomnia after stroke was analyzed and showed that they were lower in the insomnia group than in the non-insomnia group. The severity of stroke was higher in the insomnia group than in the non-insomnia group. Correlation analysis demonstrated that the nocturnal concentrations of melatonin and GABA were associated with insomnia after stroke. This trial was registered at Clinical Trials.gov, identifier: NCT03202121.
文摘Electroacupuncture is known as an effective adjuvant therapy in ischemic cerebrovascular disease. However, its underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Studies suggest that autophagy, which is essential for cell survival and cell death, is involved in cerebral ischemia reperfusion injury and might be modulate by electroacupuncture therapy in key ways. This paper aims to provide novel insights into a therapeutic target of electroacupuncture against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury from the perspective of autophagy. Here we review recent studies on electroacupuncture regulation of autophagy-related markers such as UNC-51-like kinase-1 complex, Beclin1, microtubule-associated protein-1 light chain 3, p62, and autophagosomes for treating cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury. The results of these studies show that electroacupuncture may affect the initiation of autophagy, vesicle nucleation, expansion and maturation of autophagosomes, as well as fusion and degradation of autophagolysosomes. Moreover, studies indicate that electroacupuncture probably modulates autophagy by activating the mammalian target of the rapamycin signaling pathway.This review thus indicates that autophagy is a therapeutic target of electroacupuncture treatment against ischemic cerebrovascular diseases.
基金supported by a grant from the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81060141
文摘Epalrestat is a noncompetitive and reversible aldose reductase inhibitor used for the treatment of diabetic neuropathy. This study assumed that epalrestat had a protective effect on diabetic peripheral nerve injury by suppressing the expression of aldose reductase in peripheral nerves of diabetes mellitus rats. The high-fat and high-carbohydrate model rats were established by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin. Peripheral neuropathy occurred in these rats after sustaining high blood glucose for 8 weeks. At 12 weeks after streptozotocin injection, rats were intragastrically administered epalrestat 100 mg/kg daily for 6 weeks. Transmission electron microscope revealed that the injuries to myelinated nerve fibers, non-myelinated nerve fibers and Schwann cells of rat sciatic nerves had reduced compared to rats without epalrestat administuation. Western blot assay and immunohistochemical results demonstrated that after intervention with epalrestat, the activities of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase gradually increased, but aldose reductase protein expression gradually diminished. Results confirmed that epalrestat could protect against diabetic peripheral neuropathy by relieving oxidative stress and suppressing the polyol pathway.
基金supported by Innovation Team Project of Hubei Province 2011 Plans,No.2011JH-2013CXTT06Momentous Scientific Research Funds of Hubei Provincial Education Ministry,No.D20102101Cultivating Funds of Country’s Projects of Hubei University of Medicine,No.2013GPY03
文摘3-N-butylphthalide is an ettectwe drug for acute iscemlc stroke. However, its effects on cnromc cerebral ischemia-induced neuronal injury remain poorly understood. Therefore, this study li- gated bilateral carotid arteries in 15-month-old rats to simulate chronic cerebral ischemia in aged humans. Aged rats were then intragastrically administered 3-n-butylphthalide. 3-N-butylphtha- lide administration improved the neuronal morphology in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus of rats with chronic cerebral ischemia, increased choline acetyltransferase activity, and decreased malondialdehyde and amyloid beta levels, and greatly improved cognitive function. These findings suggest that 3-n-butylphthalide alleviates oxidative stress caused by chronic cerebral ischemia, improves cholinergic function, and inhibits amyloid beta accumulation, thereby im- proving cerebral neuronal injury and cognitive deficits.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81672171(to XY),81330042(to SQF),81620108018(to SQF),81772342the State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology(Nankai University),China,No.2017027
文摘Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent novel cell death pathway. Deferoxamine, a ferroptosis inhibitor, has been reported to promote spinal cord injury repair. It has yet to be clarified whether ferroptosis inhibition represents the mechanism of action of Deferoxamine on spinal cord injury recovery. A rat model of Deferoxamine at thoracic 10 segment was established using a modified Allen's method. Ninety 8-week-old female Wistar rats were used. Rats in the Deferoxamine group were intraperitoneally injected with 100 mg/kg Deferoxamine 30 minutes before injury. Simultaneously, the Sham and Deferoxamine groups served as controls. Drug administration was conducted for 7 consecutive days. The results were as follows:(1) Electron microscopy revealed shrunken mitochondria in the spinal cord injury group.(2) The Basso, Beattie and Bresnahan locomotor rating score showed that recovery of the hindlimb was remarkably better in the Deferoxamine group than in the spinal cord injury group.(3) The iron concentration was lower in the Deferoxamine group than in the spinal cord injury group after injury.(4) Western blot assay revealed that, compared with the spinal cord injury group, GPX4, xCT, and glutathione expression was markedly increased in the Deferoxamine group.(5) Real-time polymerase chain reaction revealed that, compared with the Deferoxamine group, mRNA levels of ferroptosis-related genes Acyl-CoA synthetase family member 2(ACSF2) and iron-responsive element-binding protein 2(IREB2) were up-regulated in the Deferoxamine group.(6) Deferoxamine increased survival of neurons and inhibited gliosis. These findings confirm that Deferoxamine can repair spinal cord injury by inhibiting ferroptosis. Targeting ferroptosis is therefore a promising therapeutic approach for spinal cord injury.
基金supported by the National Institutes of Health,USA(DE018549,UL1TR001117,P30AR066527,and AR48182 to WL,AR48182-S1 to WL as co-investigatorF33DE024668 and K12DE022793 to YC)+1 种基金the US Department of Defense(W81XWH-13-1-0299 to WL)the Harrington Discovery Institute,Cleveland OH(to WL)
文摘Nociception is an important physiological process that detects harmful signals and results in pain perception. In this review, we discuss important experimental evidence involving some TRP ion channels as molecular sensors of chemical, thermal, and mechanical noxious stimuli to evoke the pain and itch sensations. Among them are the TRPA1 channel, members of the vanilloid subfamily (TRPV1, TRPV3, and TRPV4), and finally members of the melastatin group (TRPM2, TRPM3, and TRPMS). Given that pain and itch are pro-survival, evolutionarily-honed protective mechanisms, care has to be exercised when developing inhibitory/modulatory com- pounds targeting specific pain/itch-TRPs so that physio- logical protective mechanisms are not disabled to a degree that stimulus-mediated injury can occur. Such events have impeded the development of safe and effective TRPV1- modulating compounds and have diverted substantial resources. A beneficial outcome can be readily accom- plished via simple dosing strategies, and also by incorpo- rating medicinal chemistry design features during compound design and synthesis. Beyond clinical use, where compounds that target more than one channel might have a place and possibly have advantageous features, highly specific and high-potency compounds will be helpful in mechanistic discovery at the structure-function level.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.30540058,30770714the Natural Science Foundation of Beijing of China,No.7052030+2 种基金the Talents Foundation of Organization Department of the Beijing Municipal Committee in Chinathe Beijing Science Plan Project Fund of China,No.Z0005187040191-1the Research Foundation of Capital Medical Development of China,No.2007-2068
文摘Low frequency (≤ 1 Hz) repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) can affect the excitability of the cerebral cortex and synaptic plasticity. Although this is a common method for clinical treatment of cerebral infarction, whether it promotes the recovery of motor function remains controversial. Twenty patients with cerebral infarction combined with hemiparalysis were equally and randomly divided into a low frequency rTMS group and a control group. The patients in the low frequency rTMS group were given 1-Hz rTMS to the contralateral primary motor cortex with a stimulus intensity of 90% motor threshold, 30 minutes/day. The patients in the control group were given sham stimulation. After 14 days of treatment, clinical function scores (National Institute of Health Stroke Scale, Barthel Index, and Fugl-Meyer Assessment) improved significantly in the low frequency rTMS group, and the effects were better than that in the control group. We conclude that low frequency (1 Hz) rTMS for 14 days can help improve motor function after cerebral infarction.
基金supported by a grant from the National Basic Research Program of China(973 Program),No.2010CB530600Institutes Project from Guang’anmen Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences,No.2011261
文摘OBJECTIVE:This meta-analysis was performed to systematically assess the efficacy and safety of the Chinese herbal medicine Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu Decoction(HGWWD) for treating diabetic peripheral neuropathy.DATA SOURCES:Six electronic databases,including the Cochrane Library,MEDLINE database,Chinese Biomedical Database,Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure Database,Chinese Science and Technique Journals Database,and the Wanfang Database,were search ed on the internet for randomized controlled trials published up until 1 December 2015.The search terms included "Chinese herbal medicine","diabetic peripheral neuropathy" and "randomized controlled trials" in Chinese and in English.DATA SELECTION:We included randomized controlled trials using HGWWD/modified HGWWD for the treatment group,without restriction for the control group.We assessed literature quality in accordance with the Cochrane Review Handbook.A random or a fixed effects model was used to analyze outcomes using Rev Man 5.2 software.OUTCOME MEASURES:The primary outcomes were changes in symptoms and nerve conduction velocities.The secondary outcomeswere fasting blood glucose and hemorheological indexes.RESULTS:Sixteen randomized controlled trials,with a total of 1,173 patients,were included.Meta-analysis revealed that the efficacy of HGWWD for diabetic peripheral neuropathy was significantly superior compared with the control treatment(i.e.,control group)(risk ratio = 0.36,95% confidence interval(CI):0.29–0.46,Z =8.33,P 〈 0.00001) Compared with the control group,there was an increase in median motor nerve conduction velocity(mean difference(MD) = 3.46,95%CI:1.88–5.04,Z = 4.30,P 〈 0.01) and median sensory nerve conduction velocity(MD = 3.30,95%CI:2.04–4.56,Z = 5.14,P 〈 0.01).There was also an increase in peroneal motor nerve conduction velocity(MD = 3.22,95%CI:2.45–3.98,Z = 8.21,P 〈 0.01) and peroneal sensory nerve conduction velocity(MD = 3.05,95%CI:2.01–4.09,Z = 5.75,P 〈
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No. 81373743)Outstanding Young Talents Support Program of Anhui(No. 20140181)
文摘Objective: Acupuncture has a definite therapeutic effect on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway (CAP) has been shown to be involved in regula- tion of inflammation. In this study, we investigated whether electro-acupuncture (EA) affects the CAP in COPD,Methods: Sprague-Dawley rats were induced into COPD through exposure to cigarette smoke combined with lipopolysaccharide. EA treatment was applied at Zusanli (ST36) and Feishu (BL13) points for 30 min/d for 7 d. Seventy-two rats were randomly divided into six study groups, including normal, normal + EA, normal + α-bungarotoxin (α-BGT) (the antagonist of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor α7 subunit (α7nAChR)) + EA, COPD, COPD + EA, and COPD + α-BGT + EA. Lung function, pathology and vagus nerve discharge were tested. The levels of acetylcholine (ACh), acetylcholinesterase (ACHE), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-ct) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and lung tissue were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The mRNA and protein expression and immunoreac- tivity of α7nAChR and its postreceptor inflammation signal pathway, including janus kinase 2 (JAK2), sig- nal transducers and activators of transcription 3 (STAT3), nuclear factor-KB (NF-KB), were observed by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, Western blot and immunohistochemistry. Results: Compared with normal rats, there were a significant decline in lung function and discharge of the vagus nerve (P 〈 0.01), a marked sign of lung inflammation and an increase of ACh, ACHE, IL-6 and TNF-α level in BALF or lung tissue (P 〈 0.05, P 〈 0.01 ) and higher expression of 0t7nAChR, JAK2, STAT3 and NF-αB (P 〈 0.05, P 〈 0.01) in the COPD rats. In rats receiving EA, the lung function and vagal discharge were enhanced (P 〈 0.01 ), lung inflammation was improved and the levels of ACh, ACHE, IL-
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81173354a grant from the Science and Technology Plan Project of Guangdong Province of China,No.2013B021800099a grant from the Science and Technology Plan Project of Shenzhen City of China,No.JCYJ20150402152005642
文摘Functional magnetic resonance imaging has been widely used to investigate the effects of acupuncture on neural activity. However, most functional magnetic resonance imaging studies have focused on acute changes in brain activation induced by acupuncture. Thus, the time course of the therapeutic effects of acupuncture remains unclear. In this study, 32 patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment were randomly divided into two groups, where they received either Tiaoshen Yizhi acupuncture or sham acupoint acupuncture. The needles were either twirled at Tiaoshen Yizhi acupoints, including Sishencong(EX-HN1), Yintang(EX-HN3), Neiguan(PC6), Taixi(KI3), Fenglong(ST40), and Taichong(LR3), or at related sham acupoints at a depth of approximately 15 mm, an angle of ± 60°, and a rate of approximately 120 times per minute. Acupuncture was conducted for 4 consecutive weeks, five times per week, on weekdays. Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging indicated that connections between cognition-related regions such as the insula, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, thalamus, inferior parietal lobule, and anterior cingulate cortex increased after acupuncture at Tiaoshen Yizhi acupoints. The insula, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, and hippocampus acted as central brain hubs. Patients in the Tiaoshen Yizhi group exhibited improved cognitive performance after acupuncture. In the sham acupoint acupuncture group, connections between brain regions were dispersed, and we found no differences in cognitive function following the treatment. These results indicate that acupuncture at Tiaoshen Yizhi acupoints can regulate brain networks by increasing connectivity between cognition-related regions, thereby improving cognitive function in patients with mild cognitive impairment.
基金financially supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Education Department of Sichuan Province of China,No.14ZB0152the Joint Research Program of Luzhou and Southwest Medical University,in China,No.14JC0120
文摘Nicotiflorin is a flavonoid extracted from Carthamus tinctorius.Previous studies have shown its cerebral protective effect,but the mechanism is undefined.In this study,we aimed to determine whether nicotiflorin protects against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury-induced apoptosis through the JAK2/STAT3 pathway.The cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury model was established by middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion.Nicotiflorin(10 mg/kg) was administered by tail vein injection.Cell apoptosis in the ischemic cerebral cortex was examined by hematoxylin-eosin staining and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase d UTP nick end labeling assay.Bcl-2 and Bax expression levels in ischemic cerebral cortex were examined by immunohistochemial staining.Additionally,p-JAK2,p-STAT3,Bcl-2,Bax,and caspase-3 levels in ischemic cerebral cortex were examined by western blot assay.Nicotiflorin altered the shape and structure of injured neurons,decreased the number of apoptotic cells,down-regulates expression of p-JAK2,p-STAT3,caspase-3,and Bax,decreased Bax immunoredactivity,and increased Bcl-2 protein expression and immunoreactivity.These results suggest that nicotiflorin protects against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury-induced apoptosis via the JAK2/STAT3 pathway.
基金supported by the Major International(Regional)Joint Research Project of the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81820108013(to LMC)the General Research Project of the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81772453(to DSX)the National Key Research and Development Program of China,No.2016YFA0100800(to LMC)
文摘Spinal cord injury is linked to the interruption of neural pathways,which results in irreversible neural dysfunction.Neural repair and neuroregeneration are critical goals and issues for rehabilitation in spinal cord injury,which require neural stem cell repair and multimodal neuromodulation techniques involving personalized rehabilitation strategies.Besides the involvement of endogenous stem cells in neurogenesis and neural repair,exogenous neural stem cell transplantation is an emerging effective method for repairing and replacing damaged tissues in central nervous system diseases.However,to ensure that endogenous or exogenous neural stem cells truly participate in neural repair following spinal cord injury,appropriate interventional measures(e.g.,neuromodulation)should be adopted.Neuromodulation techniques,such as noninvasive magnetic stimulation and electrical stimulation,have been safely applied in many neuropsychiatric diseases.There is increasing evidence to suggest that neuromagnetic/electrical modulation promotes neuroregeneration and neural repair by affecting signaling in the nervous system;namely,by exciting,inhibiting,or regulating neuronal and neural network activities to improve motor function and motor learning following spinal cord injury.Several studies have indicated that fine motor skill rehabilitation training makes use of residual nerve fibers for collateral growth,encourages the formation of new synaptic connections to promote neural plasticity,and improves motor function recovery in patients with spinal cord injury.With the development of biomaterial technology and biomechanical engineering,several emerging treatments have been developed,such as robots,brain-computer interfaces,and nanomaterials.These treatments have the potential to help millions of patients suffering from motor dysfunction caused by spinal cord injury.However,large-scale clinical trials need to be conducted to validate their efficacy.This review evaluated the efficacy of neural stem cells and magnetic or electrical stimu
基金supported by a grant from the Major Project of Educational Commission of Hubei Province of China,No.D20152101
文摘Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive treatment that can enhance the recovery of neurological function after stroke. Whether it can similarly promote the recovery of cognitive function after vascular dementia remains unknown, In this study, a rat model for vascular dementia was established by the two-vessel occlusion method. Two days after injury, 30 pulses of rTMS were ad- ministered to each cerebral hemisphere at a frequency of 0.5 Hz and a magnetic field intensity of 1,33 T. The Morris water maze test was used to evaluate learning and memory function. The Karnovsky-Roots method was performed to determine the density of cholinergic neurons in the hippocampal CA1 region. Immunohistochemical staining was used to determine the number of brain-derived neurotroph- ic factor (BDNF)-immunoreactive cells in the hippocampal CA1 region, rTMS treatment for 30 days significantly improved learning and memory function, increased acetylcholinesterase and choline acetyltransferase activity, increased the density of cholinergic neurons, and increased the number of BDNF-immunoreactive cells. These results indicate that rTMS can ameliorate learning and memory deficiencies in rats with vascular dementia, The mechanism through which this occurs might be related to the promotion of BDNF expression and subsequent restoration of cholinergic system activity in hippocampal CA 1 region.
基金This research is supported by grants from the Chinese Postdoctoral Foundation and the Beijing Young Scientist Culture Foundation.
文摘Objective To investigate the effect of rat Schwann cell secretion on the proliferation and differentiation of human embryonic neural stem cells (NSCs). Methods The samples were divided into three groups. In Group One, NSCs were cultured in DMED/F12 in which Schwann cells had grown for one day. In Group Two, NSCs and Schwann cells were co-cultured. In Group Three, NSCs were cultured in DMEM/F12. The morphology of NSCs was checked and β-tubulin, GalC, hoechst 33342 and GFAP labellings were detected. Results In Group One, all neural spheres were attached to the bottom and differentiated. The majority of them were p-tubulin positive while a few of cells were GFAP or GalC positive. In Group Two, neural spheres remained undifferentiatied and their proliferation was inhibited in places where Schwann cells were robust. In places where there were few Schwann cells, NSCs performed in a similar manner as in Group One. In Group Three, the cell growth state deteriorated day after day. On the 7th day, most NSCs died. Conclusion The secretion of rat Schwann cells has a growth supportive and differentiation-inducing effect on human NSCs.