Background:Effective therapeutic options are limited for patients with advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma(ESCC).The incorporation of an immune checkpoint inhibitor and a molecular anti-angiogenic agent into t...Background:Effective therapeutic options are limited for patients with advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma(ESCC).The incorporation of an immune checkpoint inhibitor and a molecular anti-angiogenic agent into the commonly adopted chemotherapy may produce synergistic effects.Therefore,we aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of camrelizumab plus apatinib combined with chemotherapy as the first-line treatment of advanced ESCC.Methods:In this single-arm prospective phase II trial,patients with unresectable locally advanced or recurrent/metastatic ESCC received camrelizumab 200 mg,liposomal paclitaxel 150 mg/m2,and nedaplatin 50 mg/m2 on day 1,and apatinib 250 mg on days 1-14.The treatments were repeated every 14 days for up to 9 cycles,followed by maintenance therapy with camrelizumab and apatinib.The primary endpoint was objective response rate(ORR)according to the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors(version 1.1).Secondary endpoints included disease control rate(DCR),progression-free survival(PFS),overall survival(OS),and safety.Results:We enrolled 30 patients between August 7,2018 and February 23,2019.The median follow-up was 24.98 months(95%confidence interval[CI]:23.05-26.16 months).The centrally assessed ORR was 80.0%(95%CI:61.4%-92.3%),with a median duration of response of 9.77 months(range:1.54 to 24.82+months).The DCR reached 96.7%(95%CI:82.8%-99.9%).The median PFS was 6.85 months(95%CI:4.46-14.20 months),and the median OS was 19.43 months(95%CI:9.93 months–not reached).The most common grade 3-4 treatmentrelated adverse events(AEs)were leukopenia(83.3%),neutropenia(60.0%),and increased aspartate aminotransferase level(26.7%).Treatment-related serious AEs included febrile neutropenia,leukopenia,and anorexia in one patient(3.3%),and single cases of increased blood bilirubin level(3.3%)and toxic epidermal necrolysis(3.3%).No treatment-related deaths occurred.Conclusions:Camrelizumab plus apatinib combined with liposomal paclitaxel and nedaplatin as first-line treatment demonstrated feas展开更多
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a common viral pathogen that causes a substantial health burden worldwide. Remarkable progress has been made in our understanding of the natural stages of chronic HBV infection. A dynamic ba...Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a common viral pathogen that causes a substantial health burden worldwide. Remarkable progress has been made in our understanding of the natural stages of chronic HBV infection. A dynamic balance between viral replication and host immune response is pivotal to the pathogenesis of liver disease. Knowledge of the HBV genome organization and replication cycle can unravel HBV genotypes and molecular variants, which contribute to the heterogeneity in outcome of chronic HBV infection. Most HBV infections are spontaneously resolved in immunocompetent adults, whereas they become chronic in most neonates and infants at a great risk of developing complications such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Those with chronic HBV infection may present in one of the four phases of infection: immune tolerance, immune clearance [hepatitis B eantigen (HBeAg)-positive chronic hepatitis B (CHB)], inactive carrier state, and reactivation (HBeAg-negative CHB). Understanding the dynamic nature of chronic HBV infection is crucial in the management of HBV carriers. Long-term monitoring and optimal timing of antiviral therapy for chronic HBV infection help to prevent progression of HBV-related liver disease to its later stage, particularly in patients with higher risk markers of HCC, such as serum DNA concentration, HBeAg status, serum aminotransferase, HBV genotypes, and pre-core or core mutants.展开更多
AIM: The existence and properties of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) receptor on the surface of NIH 3T3 cells and the effects of AFP on cellular signal transduction pathway were investigated. METHODS: The effect of AFP on the...AIM: The existence and properties of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) receptor on the surface of NIH 3T3 cells and the effects of AFP on cellular signal transduction pathway were investigated. METHODS: The effect of AFP on the proliferation of NIH 3T3 cells was measured by incorporation of 3H-TdR. Receptor-binding assay of 125I-AFP was performed to detect the properties of AFP receptor in NIH 3T3 cells. The influences of AFP on the [cAMP]i and the activities of protein kinase A (PKA) were determined. Western blot was used to detect the change of K-ras P21 protein expression. RESULTS: The proliferation of NIH 3T3 cells treated with 0-80 mg/L of AFP was significantly enhanced. The Scatchard analysis indicated that there were two classes of binding sites with KD of 2.722 x 10(-9)M (Bmax=12810 sites per cell) and 8.931 x 10(-8)M (Bmax=119700 sites per cell) respectively. In the presence of AFP (20 mg/L), the content of cAMP and activities of PKA were significantly elevated . The level of K-ras P21 protein was upregulated by AFP at the concentration of 20 mg/L. The monoclonal antibody against AFP could reverse the effects of AFP on the cAMP content, PKA activity and the expression of K-ras p21 gene. CONCLUSION: The effect of AFP on the cell proliferation was achieved by binding its receptor to trigger the signal transduction pathway of cAMP-PKA and alter the expression of K- ras p21 gene.展开更多
AIM: The transcription factor EGR-1 (early growth response gene-1) plays an important role in cell growth, differentiation and development. It has identified that EGR-1 has significant transformation suppression activ...AIM: The transcription factor EGR-1 (early growth response gene-1) plays an important role in cell growth, differentiation and development. It has identified that EGR-1 has significant transformation suppression activity in some neoplasms, such as fibrosarcoma, breast carcinoma. This experiment was designed to investigate the role of egr-1 in the cancerous process of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and esophageal carcinoma (EC), and then to appraise the effects of EGR-1 on the growth of these tumor cells. METHODS: Firstly, the transcription and expression of egr-1 in HCC and EC, paracancerous tissues and their normal counterpart parts were detected by in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry, with normal human breast and mouse brain tissues as positive controls. Egr-1 gene was then transfected into HCC (HHCC, SMMC7721) and EC (ECa109) cell lines in which no egr-1 transcription and expression were present. The cell growth speed, FCM cell cycle, plate clone formation and tumorigenicity in nude mice were observed and the controls were the cell lines transfected with vector only. RESULTS: Little or no egr-1 transcription and expression were detected in HCC, EC and normal liver tissues. The expression of egr-1 were found higher in hepatocellular paracancerous tissue (transcription level P=0.000; expression level P=0.143, probably because fewer in number of cases) and dysplastic tissue of esophageal cancer (transcription level P=0.000; expression level P=0.001). The growth rate of egr-1-transfected HHCC (HCC cell line) cells and ECa109 (EC cell line) cells was much slower than that of the controls. The proportion of S phase cell, clone formation and tumorigenicity were significantly lower than these of the controls' (decreased 45.5% in HHCC cells and 34.1% in ECa109 cells; 46.6% and 41.8%; 80.4% and 72.6% respectively). There were no obvious differences between SMMC7721 (HCC) egr-1-transfected cells and the controls with regard to the above items. CONCLUSION: The decreased expression of egr-1 might play a role in 展开更多
To investigate whether the expression of exogenous heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) gene within vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) could protect the cells from free radical attack and inhibit cell proliferation, we establishe...To investigate whether the expression of exogenous heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) gene within vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) could protect the cells from free radical attack and inhibit cell proliferation, we established an in vitro transfection of human HO-1 gene into rat VSMC mediated by a retroviral vector. The results showed that the profound expression of HO-1 protein as well as HO activity was 1.8- and 2.0-fold increased respectively in the transfected cells compared to the non-transfected ones. The treatment of VSMC with different concentrations of H2O2 led to the remarkable cell damage as indicated by survival rate and LDH leakage. However, the resistance of the HO-1 transfected VSMC against H2O2 was significantly raised. This protective effect was dramatically diminished when the transfected VSMC were pretreated with ZnPP-IX, a specific inhibitor of HO, for 24 h. In addition, we found that the growth potential of the transfected cells was significantly inhibited directly by increased activity of HO-1, and this effect might be related to decreased phosphorylation of MAPK. These results suggest that the overexpression of introduced hHO-1 is potentially able to reduce the risk factors of atherosclerosis, partially due to its cellular protection against oxidative injury and to its inhibitory effect on cellular proliferation.展开更多
AIM: To investigate the cellular defects by analyzing the (Th1/Th2) cytokine levels in vaccine responders and non-responders. METHODS: Peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) from responders and non-responders were s...AIM: To investigate the cellular defects by analyzing the (Th1/Th2) cytokine levels in vaccine responders and non-responders. METHODS: Peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) from responders and non-responders were stimulated with or with out recombinant HBsAg or PHA. Broad spectrum of cytokines viz (Th1) IFN-γ, IL-2, TNF-α, IL-12 and (Th2) IL-10, IL-4 were measured after in vitro stimulation with recombinant HBsAg and were compared with respective antibody titers. RESULTS: A significant decrease (P = 0.001) in Th1 and Th2 cytokines namely, IL-2, INF-γ, TNF-α and IL-10in non-responders was observed. The level of IL-4 was not significant between the three groups. Furthermore, despite a strong Th1 and Th2 cytokine response, the level of IL-12 was elevated in high-responders compared to other groups (P = 0.001) and demonstrated a positive correlation with anti-HBs titers and Th1 cytokine response. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that unrespon-siveness to recombinant hepatitis B vaccines (rHB) is multifactorial, including specific failure of antigen presentation or the lack of both T helper Th1 and Th2 response.展开更多
AIM: To observe the growth suppression effect of exogenous introduction of early growth response gene-1 (Egr-1 gene) on esophageal carcinoma tissue as well as on esophageal carcinoma cell line Eca109 and to explore th...AIM: To observe the growth suppression effect of exogenous introduction of early growth response gene-1 (Egr-1 gene) on esophageal carcinoma tissue as well as on esophageal carcinoma cell line Eca109 and to explore the potential application of Egr-1 gene in gene therapy of tumor. METHODS: Eukaryotic expression vector of PCMV-Egr-1 plasmid was introduced into Eca109 cell line which expressed no Egr-1 protein originally with lipofectamine transfection method. The introduction and expression of PCMV-Egr-1 plasmid into Eca109 cell line was confirmed by G418 selection culture, PCR amplification of neogene contained in the vector, Western blot analysis and immunocytochemical analysis. The cell growth curve, soft agar colony formation rate and tumorigenicity in SCID mice were examined to demonstrate the growth suppression effect of exogenous Egr-1 gene on Eca109 cell line. The Egr-1 mRNA and Egr-1 protein were also detected in 50 surgical specimens of esophageal carcinoma by in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: Exogenous Egr-1 gene was introduced successfully into Eca109 cell line and expressed Egr-1 protein stably. The transfected Eca109 cell line grew more slowly than control Eca109 as shown by cell growth curves, the soft agar colony formation rate (4.0% vs 6.9%, P 【 0.01) and the average growth rate of tumor in SCID mice (35.5 +/- 7.6 vs 65.8 +/- 7.6, P 【 0.05). The expression level of Egr-1 mRNA and protein significantly increased in dysplastic epithelia adjacent to cancer rather than in cancer tissues (65.8% vs 20.0% by ISH and 57.9% vs 0.01). CONCLUSION: Exogenous Egr-1 gene shows the strong effect of growth inhibition in Eca109 cell line. Egr-1 in the cancer tissue shows down-regulated expression that supports the inhibited function of Egr-1 in cancer growth and suggests Egr-1 may have an important role in gene therapy of esophageal carcinoma.展开更多
Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability in adults worldwide,resulting in huge social and financial burdens.Extracts from herbs,especially those used in Chinese medicine,have emerged as new pharmace...Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability in adults worldwide,resulting in huge social and financial burdens.Extracts from herbs,especially those used in Chinese medicine,have emerged as new pharmaceuticals for stroke treatment.Here we review the evidence from preclinical studies investigating neuroprotective properties of Chinese medicinal compounds through their application in acute and subacute phases of ischemic stroke,and highlight potential mechanisms underlying their therapeutic effects.It is noteworthy that many herbal compounds have been shown to target multiple mechanisms and in combinations may exert synergistic effects on signaling pathways,thereby attenuating multiple aspects of ischemic pathology.We conclude the paper with a general discussion of the prospects for novel natural compound-based regimens against stroke.展开更多
Glioblastomas(GBMs)are highly lethal primary brain tumors.Despite current therapeutic advances in other solid cancers,the treatment of these malignant gliomas remains essentially palliative.GBMs are extremely resistan...Glioblastomas(GBMs)are highly lethal primary brain tumors.Despite current therapeutic advances in other solid cancers,the treatment of these malignant gliomas remains essentially palliative.GBMs are extremely resistant to conventional radiation and chemotherapies.We and others have demonstrated that a highly tumorigenic subpopulation of cancer cells called GBM stem cells(GSCs)promotes therapeutic resistance.We also found that GSCs stimulate tumor angiogenesis by expressing elevated levels of VEGF and contribute to tumor growth,which has been translated into a useful therapeutic strategy in the treatment of recurrent or progressive GBMs.Furthermore,stem cell-like cancer cells(cancer stem cells)have been shown to promote metastasis.Although GBMs rarely metastasize beyond the central nervous system,these highly infiltrative cancers often invade into normal brain tissues preventing surgical resection,and GSCs display an aggressive invasive phenotype.These studies suggest that targeting GSCs may effectively reduce tumor recurrence and significantly improve GBM treatment.Recent studies indicate that cancer stem cells share core signaling pathways with normal somatic or embryonic stem cells,but also display critical distinctions that provide important clues into useful therapeutic targets.In this review,we summarize the current understanding and advances in glioma stem cell research,and discuss potential targeting strategies for future development of anti-GSC therapies.展开更多
Background:Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma(DLBCL)patients refractory to rituximab-based immunochemotherapy have a dismal prognosis.However,the definition of refractory DLBCL remains inconsistent and no large cohort stud...Background:Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma(DLBCL)patients refractory to rituximab-based immunochemotherapy have a dismal prognosis.However,the definition of refractory DLBCL remains inconsistent and no large cohort study data is available from Asian countries.To validate the definition and outcomes of refractory DLBCL in China,we conducted a multicenter,retrospective cohort study.Methods:The REtrospective AnaLysis of Treatment REspoNse of refractory DLBCL(REAL-TREND)study was performed using real-world data from 8 centers in China.DLBCL patients with curative intent were included in the REAL-TREND dataset.Overall survival(OS)was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method and compared by the log-rank test.Due to heterogeneity in response rates among different centers,the response rates of refractory patients were pooled using random-effect models.Multivariate survival analysis was performed using the Cox regression model.Results:A total of 2778 DLBCL patients diagnosed between January,2010 and December,2015 were enrolled to this study.After validating previous definitions,the SCHOLAR-1 study was most suitable to define refractory DLBCL.The estimated 5-year cumulative incidence of refractory patients was 20%(95% confidence Interval[CI]=18%-22%).After the determination of refractory disease,overall response rate and complete remission rate were 30%(95%CI=22%-38%)and 9%(95%CI=4%-15%),respectively.Patients with either no response to immunochemotherapy or relapse within 12 months after stem-cell transplantation had inferior survival with a median OS of 5.9 months(95%CI=5.5-7.1 months)and 2-year OS rate of 16%(95%CI=12%-20%).International prognostic index score 4-5(hazard ratio[HR]=2.22;95%CI=1.47-3.35),central nervous systemrelapse(HR=1.43;95%CI=1.04-1.97),and best response status(HR=2.68;95%CI=1.42-5.03 for partial remission.HR=5.97,95%CI=3.21-11.11 for stable disease/progressive disease)were independent unfavorable prognostic factors.Conclusions:This is the first large-scale Asian cohort study focusing on outcomes of refr展开更多
Vy2Vδ2 T （also known as Vy9Vδ2 T） cells exist only in primates, and in humans represent a major yδ T-cell sub-population in the total population of circulating yδ T cells. Results from recent studies suggest tha...Vy2Vδ2 T （also known as Vy9Vδ2 T） cells exist only in primates, and in humans represent a major yδ T-cell sub-population in the total population of circulating yδ T cells. Results from recent studies suggest that while （E）-4-hydroxy-3-methyl-but-2-enyl pyrophosphate （HMBPP） phosphoantigen from Mycobacterium tuberculosis （Mtb） and other microbes activates and expands primate Vy2Vδ2 T cells, the Vy2Vδ2 T-cell receptor （TCR） recognizes and binds to HMBPP on antigen-presenting cells （APC）. In response to HMBPP stimulus, Vy2V82 TCRs array to form signaling-related nanoclusters or nanodomains during the activation of Vy2V82 T cells. Primary infections with H MBPP-producing pathogens drive the evolution of multieffector functional responses in Vy2Vδ2 T cells, although Vy2V82 T cells display different patterns of responses during the acute and chronic phases of Mtb infection and in other infections. Expanded Vy2Vδ2 T cells in primary Mtb infection can exhibit a broader TCR repertoire and a greater clonal response than previously assumed, with different distribution patterns of Vδ,2Vδ2 T-cell clones in lymphoid and non-lymphoid compartments. Emerging in vivo data suggest that HMBPP activation of Vy2W2 T cells appears to impact other immune cells during infection.展开更多
基金This study was supported by the Chinese Society of Clinical Oncology(CSCO)-Hengrui Oncology Research Fund(No.Y-HR2018-364)。
文摘Background:Effective therapeutic options are limited for patients with advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma(ESCC).The incorporation of an immune checkpoint inhibitor and a molecular anti-angiogenic agent into the commonly adopted chemotherapy may produce synergistic effects.Therefore,we aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of camrelizumab plus apatinib combined with chemotherapy as the first-line treatment of advanced ESCC.Methods:In this single-arm prospective phase II trial,patients with unresectable locally advanced or recurrent/metastatic ESCC received camrelizumab 200 mg,liposomal paclitaxel 150 mg/m2,and nedaplatin 50 mg/m2 on day 1,and apatinib 250 mg on days 1-14.The treatments were repeated every 14 days for up to 9 cycles,followed by maintenance therapy with camrelizumab and apatinib.The primary endpoint was objective response rate(ORR)according to the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors(version 1.1).Secondary endpoints included disease control rate(DCR),progression-free survival(PFS),overall survival(OS),and safety.Results:We enrolled 30 patients between August 7,2018 and February 23,2019.The median follow-up was 24.98 months(95%confidence interval[CI]:23.05-26.16 months).The centrally assessed ORR was 80.0%(95%CI:61.4%-92.3%),with a median duration of response of 9.77 months(range:1.54 to 24.82+months).The DCR reached 96.7%(95%CI:82.8%-99.9%).The median PFS was 6.85 months(95%CI:4.46-14.20 months),and the median OS was 19.43 months(95%CI:9.93 months–not reached).The most common grade 3-4 treatmentrelated adverse events(AEs)were leukopenia(83.3%),neutropenia(60.0%),and increased aspartate aminotransferase level(26.7%).Treatment-related serious AEs included febrile neutropenia,leukopenia,and anorexia in one patient(3.3%),and single cases of increased blood bilirubin level(3.3%)and toxic epidermal necrolysis(3.3%).No treatment-related deaths occurred.Conclusions:Camrelizumab plus apatinib combined with liposomal paclitaxel and nedaplatin as first-line treatment demonstrated feas
基金Supported by Science and Technology Department of Qingdao Government 07-2-1-15-nsh
文摘Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a common viral pathogen that causes a substantial health burden worldwide. Remarkable progress has been made in our understanding of the natural stages of chronic HBV infection. A dynamic balance between viral replication and host immune response is pivotal to the pathogenesis of liver disease. Knowledge of the HBV genome organization and replication cycle can unravel HBV genotypes and molecular variants, which contribute to the heterogeneity in outcome of chronic HBV infection. Most HBV infections are spontaneously resolved in immunocompetent adults, whereas they become chronic in most neonates and infants at a great risk of developing complications such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Those with chronic HBV infection may present in one of the four phases of infection: immune tolerance, immune clearance [hepatitis B eantigen (HBeAg)-positive chronic hepatitis B (CHB)], inactive carrier state, and reactivation (HBeAg-negative CHB). Understanding the dynamic nature of chronic HBV infection is crucial in the management of HBV carriers. Long-term monitoring and optimal timing of antiviral therapy for chronic HBV infection help to prevent progression of HBV-related liver disease to its later stage, particularly in patients with higher risk markers of HCC, such as serum DNA concentration, HBeAg status, serum aminotransferase, HBV genotypes, and pre-core or core mutants.
基金This work was supported by National NaturalScience Fundation of China(No.39760077).
文摘AIM: The existence and properties of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) receptor on the surface of NIH 3T3 cells and the effects of AFP on cellular signal transduction pathway were investigated. METHODS: The effect of AFP on the proliferation of NIH 3T3 cells was measured by incorporation of 3H-TdR. Receptor-binding assay of 125I-AFP was performed to detect the properties of AFP receptor in NIH 3T3 cells. The influences of AFP on the [cAMP]i and the activities of protein kinase A (PKA) were determined. Western blot was used to detect the change of K-ras P21 protein expression. RESULTS: The proliferation of NIH 3T3 cells treated with 0-80 mg/L of AFP was significantly enhanced. The Scatchard analysis indicated that there were two classes of binding sites with KD of 2.722 x 10(-9)M (Bmax=12810 sites per cell) and 8.931 x 10(-8)M (Bmax=119700 sites per cell) respectively. In the presence of AFP (20 mg/L), the content of cAMP and activities of PKA were significantly elevated . The level of K-ras P21 protein was upregulated by AFP at the concentration of 20 mg/L. The monoclonal antibody against AFP could reverse the effects of AFP on the cAMP content, PKA activity and the expression of K-ras p21 gene. CONCLUSION: The effect of AFP on the cell proliferation was achieved by binding its receptor to trigger the signal transduction pathway of cAMP-PKA and alter the expression of K- ras p21 gene.
基金the National Natural Scientific Foundation of China,No.39670298
文摘AIM: The transcription factor EGR-1 (early growth response gene-1) plays an important role in cell growth, differentiation and development. It has identified that EGR-1 has significant transformation suppression activity in some neoplasms, such as fibrosarcoma, breast carcinoma. This experiment was designed to investigate the role of egr-1 in the cancerous process of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and esophageal carcinoma (EC), and then to appraise the effects of EGR-1 on the growth of these tumor cells. METHODS: Firstly, the transcription and expression of egr-1 in HCC and EC, paracancerous tissues and their normal counterpart parts were detected by in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry, with normal human breast and mouse brain tissues as positive controls. Egr-1 gene was then transfected into HCC (HHCC, SMMC7721) and EC (ECa109) cell lines in which no egr-1 transcription and expression were present. The cell growth speed, FCM cell cycle, plate clone formation and tumorigenicity in nude mice were observed and the controls were the cell lines transfected with vector only. RESULTS: Little or no egr-1 transcription and expression were detected in HCC, EC and normal liver tissues. The expression of egr-1 were found higher in hepatocellular paracancerous tissue (transcription level P=0.000; expression level P=0.143, probably because fewer in number of cases) and dysplastic tissue of esophageal cancer (transcription level P=0.000; expression level P=0.001). The growth rate of egr-1-transfected HHCC (HCC cell line) cells and ECa109 (EC cell line) cells was much slower than that of the controls. The proportion of S phase cell, clone formation and tumorigenicity were significantly lower than these of the controls' (decreased 45.5% in HHCC cells and 34.1% in ECa109 cells; 46.6% and 41.8%; 80.4% and 72.6% respectively). There were no obvious differences between SMMC7721 (HCC) egr-1-transfected cells and the controls with regard to the above items. CONCLUSION: The decreased expression of egr-1 might play a role in
基金This work was kindly supported by Na-tional Natural Science Foundation of China(No.39670308)
文摘To investigate whether the expression of exogenous heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) gene within vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) could protect the cells from free radical attack and inhibit cell proliferation, we established an in vitro transfection of human HO-1 gene into rat VSMC mediated by a retroviral vector. The results showed that the profound expression of HO-1 protein as well as HO activity was 1.8- and 2.0-fold increased respectively in the transfected cells compared to the non-transfected ones. The treatment of VSMC with different concentrations of H2O2 led to the remarkable cell damage as indicated by survival rate and LDH leakage. However, the resistance of the HO-1 transfected VSMC against H2O2 was significantly raised. This protective effect was dramatically diminished when the transfected VSMC were pretreated with ZnPP-IX, a specific inhibitor of HO, for 24 h. In addition, we found that the growth potential of the transfected cells was significantly inhibited directly by increased activity of HO-1, and this effect might be related to decreased phosphorylation of MAPK. These results suggest that the overexpression of introduced hHO-1 is potentially able to reduce the risk factors of atherosclerosis, partially due to its cellular protection against oxidative injury and to its inhibitory effect on cellular proliferation.
基金Serum Institute of India, Pune, India and Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) New Delhi, India
文摘AIM: To investigate the cellular defects by analyzing the (Th1/Th2) cytokine levels in vaccine responders and non-responders. METHODS: Peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) from responders and non-responders were stimulated with or with out recombinant HBsAg or PHA. Broad spectrum of cytokines viz (Th1) IFN-γ, IL-2, TNF-α, IL-12 and (Th2) IL-10, IL-4 were measured after in vitro stimulation with recombinant HBsAg and were compared with respective antibody titers. RESULTS: A significant decrease (P = 0.001) in Th1 and Th2 cytokines namely, IL-2, INF-γ, TNF-α and IL-10in non-responders was observed. The level of IL-4 was not significant between the three groups. Furthermore, despite a strong Th1 and Th2 cytokine response, the level of IL-12 was elevated in high-responders compared to other groups (P = 0.001) and demonstrated a positive correlation with anti-HBs titers and Th1 cytokine response. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that unrespon-siveness to recombinant hepatitis B vaccines (rHB) is multifactorial, including specific failure of antigen presentation or the lack of both T helper Th1 and Th2 response.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.39670298.
文摘AIM: To observe the growth suppression effect of exogenous introduction of early growth response gene-1 (Egr-1 gene) on esophageal carcinoma tissue as well as on esophageal carcinoma cell line Eca109 and to explore the potential application of Egr-1 gene in gene therapy of tumor. METHODS: Eukaryotic expression vector of PCMV-Egr-1 plasmid was introduced into Eca109 cell line which expressed no Egr-1 protein originally with lipofectamine transfection method. The introduction and expression of PCMV-Egr-1 plasmid into Eca109 cell line was confirmed by G418 selection culture, PCR amplification of neogene contained in the vector, Western blot analysis and immunocytochemical analysis. The cell growth curve, soft agar colony formation rate and tumorigenicity in SCID mice were examined to demonstrate the growth suppression effect of exogenous Egr-1 gene on Eca109 cell line. The Egr-1 mRNA and Egr-1 protein were also detected in 50 surgical specimens of esophageal carcinoma by in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: Exogenous Egr-1 gene was introduced successfully into Eca109 cell line and expressed Egr-1 protein stably. The transfected Eca109 cell line grew more slowly than control Eca109 as shown by cell growth curves, the soft agar colony formation rate (4.0% vs 6.9%, P 【 0.01) and the average growth rate of tumor in SCID mice (35.5 +/- 7.6 vs 65.8 +/- 7.6, P 【 0.05). The expression level of Egr-1 mRNA and protein significantly increased in dysplastic epithelia adjacent to cancer rather than in cancer tissues (65.8% vs 20.0% by ISH and 57.9% vs 0.01). CONCLUSION: Exogenous Egr-1 gene shows the strong effect of growth inhibition in Eca109 cell line. Egr-1 in the cancer tissue shows down-regulated expression that supports the inhibited function of Egr-1 in cancer growth and suggests Egr-1 may have an important role in gene therapy of esophageal carcinoma.
基金supported by AHA Award 14SDG20480186(to LC)Kentucky Spinal Cord&Head Injury Research Trust Grant 14-12A(to KES)Startup Funds from Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine to Young Investigators(1410170078)(to BZ)
文摘Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability in adults worldwide,resulting in huge social and financial burdens.Extracts from herbs,especially those used in Chinese medicine,have emerged as new pharmaceuticals for stroke treatment.Here we review the evidence from preclinical studies investigating neuroprotective properties of Chinese medicinal compounds through their application in acute and subacute phases of ischemic stroke,and highlight potential mechanisms underlying their therapeutic effects.It is noteworthy that many herbal compounds have been shown to target multiple mechanisms and in combinations may exert synergistic effects on signaling pathways,thereby attenuating multiple aspects of ischemic pathology.We conclude the paper with a general discussion of the prospects for novel natural compound-based regimens against stroke.
文摘Glioblastomas(GBMs)are highly lethal primary brain tumors.Despite current therapeutic advances in other solid cancers,the treatment of these malignant gliomas remains essentially palliative.GBMs are extremely resistant to conventional radiation and chemotherapies.We and others have demonstrated that a highly tumorigenic subpopulation of cancer cells called GBM stem cells(GSCs)promotes therapeutic resistance.We also found that GSCs stimulate tumor angiogenesis by expressing elevated levels of VEGF and contribute to tumor growth,which has been translated into a useful therapeutic strategy in the treatment of recurrent or progressive GBMs.Furthermore,stem cell-like cancer cells(cancer stem cells)have been shown to promote metastasis.Although GBMs rarely metastasize beyond the central nervous system,these highly infiltrative cancers often invade into normal brain tissues preventing surgical resection,and GSCs display an aggressive invasive phenotype.These studies suggest that targeting GSCs may effectively reduce tumor recurrence and significantly improve GBM treatment.Recent studies indicate that cancer stem cells share core signaling pathways with normal somatic or embryonic stem cells,but also display critical distinctions that provide important clues into useful therapeutic targets.In this review,we summarize the current understanding and advances in glioma stem cell research,and discuss potential targeting strategies for future development of anti-GSC therapies.
基金by research funding from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(81670176 to L.W.,81520108003,and 81830007 to W.Z.)the Chang Jiang Scholars Program(T2015055 to W.Z.)+4 种基金the Shanghai Municipal Education Commission Gaofeng Clinical Medicine Grant Support(20152206 to L.W.and 20152208 to W.Z.)the Clinical Research Plan of SHDC(SHDC2020CR1032B to W.Z.)the Multicenter Clinical Research Project by Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine(DLY201601 to W.Z.)the Collaborative Innovation Center of Systems Biomedicine(to W.Z.)the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation(to W.Z.).
文摘Background:Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma(DLBCL)patients refractory to rituximab-based immunochemotherapy have a dismal prognosis.However,the definition of refractory DLBCL remains inconsistent and no large cohort study data is available from Asian countries.To validate the definition and outcomes of refractory DLBCL in China,we conducted a multicenter,retrospective cohort study.Methods:The REtrospective AnaLysis of Treatment REspoNse of refractory DLBCL(REAL-TREND)study was performed using real-world data from 8 centers in China.DLBCL patients with curative intent were included in the REAL-TREND dataset.Overall survival(OS)was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method and compared by the log-rank test.Due to heterogeneity in response rates among different centers,the response rates of refractory patients were pooled using random-effect models.Multivariate survival analysis was performed using the Cox regression model.Results:A total of 2778 DLBCL patients diagnosed between January,2010 and December,2015 were enrolled to this study.After validating previous definitions,the SCHOLAR-1 study was most suitable to define refractory DLBCL.The estimated 5-year cumulative incidence of refractory patients was 20%(95% confidence Interval[CI]=18%-22%).After the determination of refractory disease,overall response rate and complete remission rate were 30%(95%CI=22%-38%)and 9%(95%CI=4%-15%),respectively.Patients with either no response to immunochemotherapy or relapse within 12 months after stem-cell transplantation had inferior survival with a median OS of 5.9 months(95%CI=5.5-7.1 months)and 2-year OS rate of 16%(95%CI=12%-20%).International prognostic index score 4-5(hazard ratio[HR]=2.22;95%CI=1.47-3.35),central nervous systemrelapse(HR=1.43;95%CI=1.04-1.97),and best response status(HR=2.68;95%CI=1.42-5.03 for partial remission.HR=5.97,95%CI=3.21-11.11 for stable disease/progressive disease)were independent unfavorable prognostic factors.Conclusions:This is the first large-scale Asian cohort study focusing on outcomes of refr
文摘Vy2Vδ2 T （also known as Vy9Vδ2 T） cells exist only in primates, and in humans represent a major yδ T-cell sub-population in the total population of circulating yδ T cells. Results from recent studies suggest that while （E）-4-hydroxy-3-methyl-but-2-enyl pyrophosphate （HMBPP） phosphoantigen from Mycobacterium tuberculosis （Mtb） and other microbes activates and expands primate Vy2Vδ2 T cells, the Vy2Vδ2 T-cell receptor （TCR） recognizes and binds to HMBPP on antigen-presenting cells （APC）. In response to HMBPP stimulus, Vy2V82 TCRs array to form signaling-related nanoclusters or nanodomains during the activation of Vy2V82 T cells. Primary infections with H MBPP-producing pathogens drive the evolution of multieffector functional responses in Vy2Vδ2 T cells, although Vy2V82 T cells display different patterns of responses during the acute and chronic phases of Mtb infection and in other infections. Expanded Vy2Vδ2 T cells in primary Mtb infection can exhibit a broader TCR repertoire and a greater clonal response than previously assumed, with different distribution patterns of Vδ,2Vδ2 T-cell clones in lymphoid and non-lymphoid compartments. Emerging in vivo data suggest that HMBPP activation of Vy2W2 T cells appears to impact other immune cells during infection.
