ijms-logo

Journal Browser

Journal Browser

Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery

A special issue of International Journal of Molecular Sciences (ISSN 1422-0067). This special issue belongs to the section "Biochemistry".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 December 2016) | Viewed by 282960

Special Issue Editors

Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone & Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
Interests: targeted delivery; aptamer; computer-aided drug design; natural product; small molecule drugs
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Institute of Integrated Bioinfomedicine & Translational Science, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
Interests: targeted delivery; aptamer; computer-aided drug design; natural product; small molecule drugs
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Institute of Integrated Bioinformedicine and Translational Science, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
Interests: bioinformatics; drug design; transcriptional regulation network; next generation sequencing; modeling

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

There is a growing consensus that the transfer of knowledge from biomedical science into clinical application should be accelerated. Translational molecular medicine offers an opportunity for applying the research discoveries obtained from basic research to every-day clinical applications for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of human diseases. Translational molecular medicine is the integrated application of innovative pharmacology tools, biomedical engineering technology, omics technologies, biomarkers discovery, and clinical technologies to improve the disease understanding of the molecular mechanisms. Molecular drug discovery is a long and complex process that utilizes multidisciplinary project teams and attempts to simultaneously move forward with as many aspects of the overall drug discovery and development process as possible. Modern methodologies of molecular drug discovery include high throughput screening, natural product separation, chemical synthesis and modification, omics technologies, data mining, structure-based drug design, ADME/T (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion/toxicity) evaluation, target and lead identification and validation, systems biology and systems pharmacology based drug discovery, structural biology, knowledge-based design of drug combinations and multi-target drugs, phenotypic screening, etc. As the interdisciplinary branch and hot topic of precision medicine, translational molecular medicine and molecular drug discovery have gained more and more attention in recent years.

This Special Issue, “Translational Molecular Medicine and Molecular Drug Discovery”, will cover a selection of recent research topics and current review articles in the field. Experimental papers, up-to-date review, and commentaries are all welcome.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ge Zhang
Prof. Dr. Aiping Lu
Assist. Prof. Dr. Hailong Zhu
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. International Journal of Molecular Sciences is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. There is an Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal. For details about the APC please see here. Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • translational medicine
  • molecular mechanism
  • biomarkers
  • drug discovery
  • omics technologies
  • chemical synthesis
  • data mining
  • systems biology
  • systems pharmacology
  • drug design
  • transcriptional regulation network
  • next generation sequencing
  • modeling

Published Papers (39 papers)

Order results
Result details
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review, Other

1445 KiB  
Article
Retinoic Acid Negatively Impacts Proliferation and MCTC Specific Attributes of Human Skin Derived Mast Cells, but Reinforces Allergic Stimulability
by Magda Babina, Metin Artuc, Sven Guhl and Torsten Zuberbier
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(3), 525; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18030525 - 28 Feb 2017
Cited by 28 | Viewed by 6226
Abstract
The Vitamin-A-metabolite retinoic acid (RA) acts as a master regulator of cellular programs. Mast cells (MCs) are primary effector cells of type-I-allergic reactions. We recently uncovered that human cutaneous MCs are enriched with RA network components over other skin cells. Yet, direct experimental [...] Read more.
The Vitamin-A-metabolite retinoic acid (RA) acts as a master regulator of cellular programs. Mast cells (MCs) are primary effector cells of type-I-allergic reactions. We recently uncovered that human cutaneous MCs are enriched with RA network components over other skin cells. Yet, direct experimental evidence on the significance of the RA-MC axis is limited. Here, skin-derived cultured MCs were exposed to RA for seven days and investigated by flow-cytometry (BrdU incorporation, Annexin/PI, FcεRI), microscopy, RT-qPCR, histamine quantitation, protease activity, and degranulation assays. We found that while MC size and granularity remained unchanged, RA potently interfered with MC proliferation. Conversely, a modest survival-promoting effect from RA was noted. The granule constituents, histamine and tryptase, remained unaffected, while RA had a striking impact on MC chymase, whose expression dropped by gene and by peptidase activity. The newly uncovered MRGPRX2 performed similarly to chymase. Intriguingly, RA fostered allergic MC degranulation, in a way completely uncoupled from FcεRI expression, but it simultaneously restricted MRGPRX2-triggered histamine release in agreement with the reduced receptor expression. Vitamin-A-derived hormones thus re-shape skin-derived MCs numerically, phenotypically, and functionally. A general theme emerges, implying RA to skew MCs towards processes associated with (allergic) inflammation, while driving them away from the skin-imprinted MCTC (“MCs containing tryptase and chymase”) signature (chymase, MRGPRX2). Collectively, MCs are substantial targets of the skin retinoid network. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Figure 1

1731 KiB  
Article
Omalizumab Is Equally Effective in Persistent Allergic Oral Corticosteroid-Dependent Asthma Caused by Either Seasonal or Perennial Allergens: A Pilot Study
by Christian Domingo, Xavier Pomares, Albert Navarro, Núria Rudi, Ana Sogo, Ignacio Dávila and Rosa M. Mirapeix
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(3), 521; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18030521 - 28 Feb 2017
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 4599
Abstract
Omalizumab is marketed for chronic severe asthma patients who are allergic to perennial allergens. Our purpose was to investigate whether omalizumab is also effective in persistent severe asthma due to seasonal allergens. Thirty patients with oral corticosteroid-dependent asthma were treated with Omalizumab according [...] Read more.
Omalizumab is marketed for chronic severe asthma patients who are allergic to perennial allergens. Our purpose was to investigate whether omalizumab is also effective in persistent severe asthma due to seasonal allergens. Thirty patients with oral corticosteroid-dependent asthma were treated with Omalizumab according to the dosing table. For each patient with asthma due to seasonal allergens, we recruited the next two consecutive patients with asthma due to perennial allergens. The dose of oral methyl prednisolone (MP) was tapered at a rate of 2 mg every two weeks after the start of treatment with omalizumab depending on tolerance. At each monthly visit, a forced spirometry and fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) measurement were performed and the accumulated monthly MP dose was calculated. At entry, there were no differences between groups in terms of gender, body mass index or obesity, year exacerbation rate, monthly dose of MP, FeNO and blood immunoglobuline E (IgE) values, or spirometry (perennial: FVC: 76%; FEV1: 62%; seasonal: FVC: 79%; FEV1: 70%). The follow-up lasted 76 weeks. One patient in each group was considered a non-responder. Spirometry did not worsen in either group. There was a significant intragroup reduction in annual exacerbation rate and MP consumption but no differences were detected in the intergroup comparison. Omalizumab offered the same clinical benefits in the two cohorts regardless of whether the asthma was caused by a seasonal or a perennial allergen. These results strongly suggest that allergens are the trigger in chronic asthma but that it is the persistent exposure to IgE that causes the chronicity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

4113 KiB  
Article
AKT Axis, miR-21, and RECK Play Pivotal Roles in Dihydroartemisinin Killing Malignant Glioma Cells
by Ying-Ying Shao, Tao-Lan Zhang, Lan-Xiang Wu, He-Cun Zou, Shuang Li, Jin Huang and Hong-Hao Zhou
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(2), 350; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18020350 - 10 Feb 2017
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 5487 | Correction
Abstract
Dihydroartemisinin (DHA), a semi-synthetic derivative of artemisinin, is known to play important roles in inhibiting proliferation rate, inducing apoptosis, as well as hindering the metastasis and invasion of glioma cells, but the underlying mechanisms are still unclear so far. In this study, methyl [...] Read more.
Dihydroartemisinin (DHA), a semi-synthetic derivative of artemisinin, is known to play important roles in inhibiting proliferation rate, inducing apoptosis, as well as hindering the metastasis and invasion of glioma cells, but the underlying mechanisms are still unclear so far. In this study, methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT), colony-forming, wound healing, invasion, and apoptosis assays were performed to investigate the effect of DHA on malignant glioma cells. Results showed that DHA induced apoptosis of malignant glioma cells through Protein Kinase B (AKT) axis, induced death of malignant glioma cells by downregulating miR-21, and inhibited the invasion of malignant glioma cells corresponding with up-regulation of the reversion-inducing-cysteine-rich protein with kazal motifs (RECK). These results revealed that AKT axis, miR-21, and RECK play pivotal roles in DHA killing malignant glioma cells, suggesting that DHA is a potential agent for treating glioma. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

6422 KiB  
Article
Antidepressant Effects of Aripiprazole Augmentation for Cilostazol-Treated Mice Exposed to Chronic Mild Stress after Ischemic Stroke
by Yu Ri Kim, Ha Neui Kim, Ki Whan Hong, Hwa Kyoung Shin and Byung Tae Choi
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(2), 355; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18020355 - 08 Feb 2017
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 5738
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the effects and underlying mechanism of aripiprazole (APZ) augmentation for cilostazol (CLS)-treated post-ischemic stroke mice that were exposed to chronic mild stress (CMS). Compared to treatment with either APZ or CLS alone, the combined treatment [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to determine the effects and underlying mechanism of aripiprazole (APZ) augmentation for cilostazol (CLS)-treated post-ischemic stroke mice that were exposed to chronic mild stress (CMS). Compared to treatment with either APZ or CLS alone, the combined treatment resulted in a greater reduction in depressive behaviors, including anhedonia, despair-like behaviors, and memory impairments. This treatment also significantly reduced atrophic changes in the striatum, cortex, and midbrain of CMS-treated ischemic mice, and inhibited neuronal cell apoptosis, particularly in the striatum and the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus. Greater proliferation of neuronal progenitor cells was also observed in the ipsilateral striatum of the mice receiving combined treatment compared to mice receiving either drug alone. Phosphorylation of the cyclic adenosine monophosphate response element binding protein (CREB) was increased in the striatum, hippocampus, and midbrain of mice receiving combined treatment compared to treatment with either drug alone, particularly in the neurons of the striatum and hippocampus, and dopaminergic neurons of the midbrain. Our results suggest that APZ may augment the antidepressant effects of CLS via co-regulation of the CREB signaling pathway, resulting in the synergistic enhancement of their neuroprotective effects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Figure 1

12552 KiB  
Article
Triptolide Combined with Radiotherapy for the Treatment of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma via NF-κB-Related Mechanism
by Weiying Zhang, Min Kang, Tingting Zhang, Bo Li, Xueyin Liao and Rensheng Wang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(12), 2139; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms17122139 - 19 Dec 2016
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 5082
Abstract
Advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) has a poor prognosis because of the lack of an effective treatment. Here we explored the efficiency and the molecular mechanisms of combined treatment with triptolide and ionizing radiation for treating NPC. Human nasopharyngeal carcinoma (CNE) cells were treated [...] Read more.
Advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) has a poor prognosis because of the lack of an effective treatment. Here we explored the efficiency and the molecular mechanisms of combined treatment with triptolide and ionizing radiation for treating NPC. Human nasopharyngeal carcinoma (CNE) cells were treated with triptolide, ionizing radiation, or triptolide plus ionizing radiation in vitro. Tumor potency was examined in an in vivo CNE cell xenograft mouse model, which was treated as above. Our results demonstrated that triptolide caused a significant reduction in cell growth and colony number, and induced a marked apoptosis that was further enhanced with increasing doses of ionizing radiation. Combination treatment synergistically reduced tumor weight and volume without obvious toxicity. Western blot analysis in vitro and in vivo showed that triptolide induced apoptotic protein Bax expression and inhibited phosph-NF-κB p65, Bcl-2 and VEGF proteins without affecting other NF-κB related protein expression. In conclusion, our findings revealed that triptolide plus ionizing radiation had synergistic anti-tumor and anti-angiogenesis effects in NPC via down-regulating NF-κB p65 phosphorylation. The combination therapy may provide novel mechanism insights into inhibit NPC. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Figure 1

3499 KiB  
Article
Toosendanin Exerts an Anti-Cancer Effect in Glioblastoma by Inducing Estrogen Receptor β- and p53-Mediated Apoptosis
by Liang Cao, Dingding Qu, Huan Wang, Sha Zhang, Chenming Jia, Zixuan Shi, Zongren Wang, Jian Zhang and Jing Ma
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(11), 1928; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms17111928 - 18 Nov 2016
Cited by 38 | Viewed by 5446
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common primary brain tumor with median survival of approximately one year. This dismal poor prognosis is due to resistance to currently available chemotherapeutics; therefore, new cytotoxic agents are urgently needed. In the present study, we reported the cytotoxicity [...] Read more.
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common primary brain tumor with median survival of approximately one year. This dismal poor prognosis is due to resistance to currently available chemotherapeutics; therefore, new cytotoxic agents are urgently needed. In the present study, we reported the cytotoxicity of toosendanin (TSN) in the GBM U87 and C6 cell lines in vitro and in vivo. By using the MTT (3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide) assay, flow cytometry analysis, and Western blot, we found that TSN inhibited U87 and C6 cell proliferation and induced apoptosis at a concentration as low as 10 nM. Administration of TSN also reduced tumor burden in a xenograft model of athymic nude mice. Pharmacological and molecular studies suggested that estrogen receptor β (ERβ) and p53 were prominent targets for TSN. GBM cell apoptosis induced by TSN was a stepwise biological event involving the upregulation of ERβ and contextual activation of functional p53. Collectively, our study indicates, for the first time, that TSN is a candidate of novel anti-cancer drugs for GBM. Furthermore, ERβ and p53 could act as predictive biomarkers for the sensitivity of cancer to TSN. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Figure 1

12599 KiB  
Article
Icariin Promotes Tendon-Bone Healing during Repair of Rotator Cuff Tears: A Biomechanical and Histological Study
by Chenyi Ye, Wei Zhang, Shengdong Wang, Shuai Jiang, Yuanbin Yu, Erman Chen, Deting Xue, Jianzhong Chen and Rongxin He
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(11), 1780; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms17111780 - 25 Oct 2016
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 6223
Abstract
To investigate whether the systematic administration of icariin (ICA) promotes tendon-bone healing after rotator cuff reconstruction in vivo, a total of 64 male Sprague Dawley rats were used in a rotator cuff injury model and underwent rotator cuff reconstruction (bone tunnel suture fixation). [...] Read more.
To investigate whether the systematic administration of icariin (ICA) promotes tendon-bone healing after rotator cuff reconstruction in vivo, a total of 64 male Sprague Dawley rats were used in a rotator cuff injury model and underwent rotator cuff reconstruction (bone tunnel suture fixation). Rats from the ICA group (n = 32) were gavage-fed daily with ICA at 0.125 mg/g, while rats in the control group (n = 32) received saline only. Micro-computed tomography, biomechanical tests, serum ELISA (calcium; Ca, alkaline phosphatase; AP, osteocalcin; OCN) and histological examinations (Safranin O and Fast Green staining, type I, II and III collagen (Col1, Col2, and Col3), CD31, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)) were analyzed two and four weeks after surgery. In the ICA group, the serum levels of AP and OCN were higher than in the control group. More Col1-, Col2-, CD31-, and VEGF-positive cells, together with a greater degree of osteogenesis, were detected in the ICA group compared with the control group. During mechanical testing, the ICA group showed a significantly higher ultimate failure load than the control group at both two and four weeks. Our results indicate that the systematic administration of ICA could promote angiogenesis and tendon-bone healing after rotator cuff reconstruction, with superior mechanical strength compared with the controls. Treatment for rotator cuff injury using systematically-administered ICA could be a promising strategy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

2022 KiB  
Article
Differential Amino Acid, Carbohydrate and Lipid Metabolism Perpetuations Involved in a Subtype of Rheumatoid Arthritis with Chinese Medicine Cold Pattern
by Hongtao Guo, Xuyan Niu, Yan Gu, Cheng Lu, Cheng Xiao, Kevin Yue, Ge Zhang, Xiaohua Pan, Miao Jiang, Yong Tan, Hongwei Kong, Zhenli Liu, Guowang Xu and Aiping Lu
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(10), 1757; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms17101757 - 21 Oct 2016
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 5788
Abstract
Pattern classification is a key approach in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and it is used to classify the patients for intervention selection accordingly. TCM cold and heat patterns, two main patterns of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) had been explored with systems biology approaches. Different [...] Read more.
Pattern classification is a key approach in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and it is used to classify the patients for intervention selection accordingly. TCM cold and heat patterns, two main patterns of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) had been explored with systems biology approaches. Different regulations of apoptosis were found to be involved in cold and heat classification in our previous works. For this study, the metabolic profiling of plasma was explored in RA patients with typical TCM cold or heat patterns by integrating liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) platforms in conjunction with the Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) software. Three main processes of metabolism, including amino acid, carbohydrate and lipid were focused on for function analysis. The results showed that 29 and 19 differential metabolites were found in cold and heat patterns respectively, compared with healthy controls. The perturbation of amino acid metabolism (increased essential amino acids), carbohydrate metabolism (galactose metabolism) and lipid metabolism, were found to be involved in both cold and heat pattern RA. In particular, more metabolic perturbations in protein and collagen breakdown, decreased glycolytic activity and aerobic oxidation, and increased energy utilization associated with RA cold pattern patients. These findings may be useful for obtaining a better understanding of RA pathogenesis and for achieving a better efficacy in RA clinical practice. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Figure 1

4832 KiB  
Article
Doxorubicin Regulates Autophagy Signals via Accumulation of Cytosolic Ca2+ in Human Cardiac Progenitor Cells
by Ji Hye Park, Sung Hyun Choi, Hyungtae Kim, Seung Taek Ji, Woong Bi Jang, Jae Ho Kim, Sang Hong Baek and Sang Mo Kwon
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(10), 1680; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms17101680 - 09 Oct 2016
Cited by 27 | Viewed by 6280
Abstract
Doxorubicin (DOXO) is widely used to treat solid tumors. However, its clinical use is limited by side effects including serious cardiotoxicity due to cardiomyocyte damage. Resident cardiac progenitor cells (hCPCs) act as key regulators of homeostasis in myocardial cells. However, little is known [...] Read more.
Doxorubicin (DOXO) is widely used to treat solid tumors. However, its clinical use is limited by side effects including serious cardiotoxicity due to cardiomyocyte damage. Resident cardiac progenitor cells (hCPCs) act as key regulators of homeostasis in myocardial cells. However, little is known about the function of hCPCs in DOXO-induced cardiotoxicity. In this study, we found that DOXO-mediated hCPC toxicity is closely related to calcium-related autophagy signaling and was significantly attenuated by blocking mTOR signaling in human hCPCs. DOXO induced hCPC apoptosis with reduction of SMP30 (regucalcin) and autophagosome marker LC3, as well as remarkable induction of the autophagy-related markers, Beclin-1, APG7, and P62/SQSTM1 and induction of calcium-related molecules, CaM (Calmodulin) and CaMKII (Calmodulin kinase II). The results of an LC3 puncta assay further indicated that DOXO reduced autophagosome formation via accumulation of cytosolic Ca2+. Additionally, DOXO significantly induced mTOR expression in hCPCs, and inhibition of mTOR signaling by rapamycin, a specific inhibitor, rescued DOXO-mediated autophagosome depletion in hCPCs with significant reduction of DOXO-mediated cytosolic Ca2+ accumulation in hCPCs, and restored SMP30 and mTOR expression. Thus, DOXO-mediated hCPC toxicity is linked to Ca2+-related autophagy signaling, and inhibition of mTOR signaling may provide a cardio-protective effect against DOXO-mediated hCPC toxicity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

3019 KiB  
Article
Longitudinal Claudin Gene Expression Analyses in Canine Mammary Tissues and Thereof Derived Primary Cultures and Cell Lines
by Susanne C. Hammer, Annegret Becker, Katja Rateitschak, Annika Mohr, Florenza Lüder Ripoli, Silvia Hennecke, Johannes Junginger, Marion Hewicker-Trautwein, Bertram Brenig, Anaclet Ngezahayo, Ingo Nolte and Hugo Murua Escobar
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(10), 1655; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms17101655 - 29 Sep 2016
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 5912
Abstract
Human and canine mammary tumours show partial claudin expression deregulations. Further, claudins have been used for directed therapeutic approaches. However, the development of claudin targeting approaches requires stable claudin expressing cell lines. This study reports the establishment and characterisation of canine mammary tissue [...] Read more.
Human and canine mammary tumours show partial claudin expression deregulations. Further, claudins have been used for directed therapeutic approaches. However, the development of claudin targeting approaches requires stable claudin expressing cell lines. This study reports the establishment and characterisation of canine mammary tissue derived cell lines, analysing longitudinally the claudin-1, -3, -4 and -7 expressions in original tissue samples, primary cultures and developed cell lines. Primary cultures were derived from 17 canine mammary tissues: healthy, lobular hyperplasia, simple adenoma, complex adenoma, simple tubular carcinoma, complex carcinoma, carcinoma arising in a benign mixed tumour and benign mixed tissue. Cultivation was performed, if possible, until passage 30. Claudin mRNA and protein expressions were analysed by PCR, QuantiGene Plex Assay, immunocytochemistry and immunofluorescence. Further, cytokeratin expression was analysed immunocytochemically. Cultivation resulted in 11 established cell lines, eight showing epithelial character. In five of the early passages the claudin expressions decreased compared to the original tissues. In general, claudin expressions were diminished during cultivation. Three cell lines kept longitudinally claudin, as well as epithelial marker expressions, representing valuable tools for the development of claudin targeted anti-tumour therapies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

7150 KiB  
Article
BL-038, a Benzofuran Derivative, Induces Cell Apoptosis in Human Chondrosarcoma Cells through Reactive Oxygen Species/Mitochondrial Dysfunction and the Caspases Dependent Pathway
by Ju-Fang Liu, Chien-Yu Chen, Hsien-Te Chen, Chih-Shiang Chang and Chih-Hsin Tang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(9), 1491; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms17091491 - 07 Sep 2016
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 5569
Abstract
Chondrosarcoma is a highly malignant cartilage-forming bone tumor that has the capacity to invade locally and cause distant metastasis. Moreover, chondrosarcoma is intrinsically resistant to conventional chemotherapy or radiotherapy. The novel benzofuran derivative, BL-038 (2-amino-3-(2,6-dichlorophenyl)-6-(4-methoxyphenyl)benzofuran-4-yl acetate), has been evaluated for its anticancer effects [...] Read more.
Chondrosarcoma is a highly malignant cartilage-forming bone tumor that has the capacity to invade locally and cause distant metastasis. Moreover, chondrosarcoma is intrinsically resistant to conventional chemotherapy or radiotherapy. The novel benzofuran derivative, BL-038 (2-amino-3-(2,6-dichlorophenyl)-6-(4-methoxyphenyl)benzofuran-4-yl acetate), has been evaluated for its anticancer effects in human chondrosarcoma cells. BL-038 caused cell apoptosis in two human chondrosarcoma cell lines, JJ012 and SW1353, but not in primary chondrocytes. Treatment of chondrosarcoma with BL-038 also induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Furthermore, BL-038 decreased mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and changed mitochondrial-related apoptosis, by downregulating the anti-apoptotic activity members (Bcl-2, Bcl-xL) and upregulating pro-apoptotic members (Bax, Bak) of the B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) family of proteins, key regulators of the apoptotic machinery in cells. These results demonstrate that in human chondrosarcoma cells, the apoptotic and cytotoxic effects of BL-038 are mediated by the intrinsic mitochondria-mediated apoptotic pathway, which in turn causes the release of cytochrome c, the activation of caspase-9 and caspase-3, and the cleavage of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP), to elicit apoptosis response. Our results show that the benzofuran derivative BL-038 induces apoptosis in chondrosarcoma cells. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

1234 KiB  
Article
New Approach in Translational Medicine: Effects of Electrolyzed Reduced Water (ERW) on NF-κB/iNOS Pathway in U937 Cell Line under Altered Redox State
by Sara Franceschelli, Daniela Maria Pia Gatta, Mirko Pesce, Alessio Ferrone, Antonia Patruno, Maria Anna De Lutiis, Alfredo Grilli, Mario Felaco, Fausto Croce and Lorenza Speranza
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(9), 1461; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms17091461 - 01 Sep 2016
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 7521
Abstract
It is known that increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) can exert harmful effects, altering the cellular redox state. Electrolyzed Reduced Water (ERW) produced near the cathode during water electrolysis exhibits high pH, high concentration of dissolved [...] Read more.
It is known that increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) can exert harmful effects, altering the cellular redox state. Electrolyzed Reduced Water (ERW) produced near the cathode during water electrolysis exhibits high pH, high concentration of dissolved hydrogen and an extremely negative redox potential. Several findings indicate that ERW had the ability of a scavenger free radical, which results from hydrogen molecules with a high reducing ability and may participate in the redox regulation of cellular function. We investigated the effect of ERW on H2O2-induced U937 damage by evaluating the modulation of redox cellular state. Western blotting and spectrophotometrical analysis showed that ERW inhibited oxidative stress by restoring the antioxidant capacity of superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase. Consequently, ERW restores the ability of the glutathione reductase to supply the cell of an important endogenous antioxidant, such as GSH, reversing the inhibitory effect of H2O2 on redox balance of U937 cells. Therefore, this means a reduction of cytotoxicity induced by peroxynitrite via a downregulation of the NF-κB/iNOS pathway and could be used as an antioxidant for preventive and therapeutic application. In conclusion, ERW can protect the cellular redox balance, reducing the risk of several diseases with altered cellular homeostasis such as inflammation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Figure 1

816 KiB  
Article
Synthesis, PASS-Predication and in Vitro Antimicrobial Activity of Benzyl 4-O-benzoyl-α-l-rhamnopyranoside Derivatives
by Mohammed Mahbubul Matin, Amit R. Nath, Omar Saad, Mohammad M. H. Bhuiyan, Farkaad A. Kadir, Sharifah Bee Abd Hamid, Abeer A. Alhadi, Md. Eaqub Ali and Wageeh A. Yehye
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(9), 1412; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms17091412 - 27 Aug 2016
Cited by 26 | Viewed by 5389
Abstract
Benzyl α-l-rhamnopyranoside 4, obtained by both conventional and microwave assisted glycosidation techniques, was subjected to 2,3-O-isopropylidene protection to yield compound 5 which on benzoylation and subsequent deprotection of isopropylidene group gave the desired 4-O-benzoylrhamnopyranoside 7 in [...] Read more.
Benzyl α-l-rhamnopyranoside 4, obtained by both conventional and microwave assisted glycosidation techniques, was subjected to 2,3-O-isopropylidene protection to yield compound 5 which on benzoylation and subsequent deprotection of isopropylidene group gave the desired 4-O-benzoylrhamnopyranoside 7 in reasonable yield. Di-O-acetyl derivative of benzoate 7 was prepared to get newer rhamnopyranoside. The structure activity relationship (SAR) of the designed compounds was performed along with the prediction of activity spectra for substances (PASS) training set. Experimental studies based on antimicrobial activities verified the predictions obtained by the PASS software. Protected rhamnopyranosides 5 and 6 exhibited slight distortion from regular 1C4 conformation, probably due to the fusion of pyranose and isopropylidene ring. Synthesized rhamnopyranosides 48 were employed as test chemicals for in vitro antimicrobial evaluation against eight human pathogenic bacteria and two fungi. Antimicrobial and SAR study showed that the rhamnopyranosides were prone against fungal organisms as compared to that of the bacterial pathogens. Interestingly, PASS prediction of the rhamnopyranoside derivatives 48 were 0.49 < Pa < 0.60 (where Pa is probability ‘to be active’) as antibacterial and 0.65 < Pa < 0.73 as antifungal activities, which showed significant agreement with experimental data, suggesting rhamnopyranoside derivatives 48 were more active against pathogenic fungi as compared to human pathogenic bacteria thus, there is a more than 50% chance that the rhamnopyranoside derivative structures 48 have not been reported with antimicrobial activity, making it a possible valuable lead compound. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

5259 KiB  
Article
Synchronized Cell Cycle Arrest Promotes Osteoclast Differentiation
by Minsuk Kwon, Jin-Man Kim, Kyunghee Lee, So-Young Park, Hyun-Sook Lim, Taesoo Kim and Daewon Jeong
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(8), 1292; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms17081292 - 09 Aug 2016
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 5164
Abstract
Osteoclast progenitors undergo cell cycle arrest before differentiation into osteoclasts, induced by exposure to macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) and receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL). The role of such cell cycle arrest in osteoclast differentiation has remained unclear, however. We here examined [...] Read more.
Osteoclast progenitors undergo cell cycle arrest before differentiation into osteoclasts, induced by exposure to macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) and receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL). The role of such cell cycle arrest in osteoclast differentiation has remained unclear, however. We here examined the effect of synchronized cell cycle arrest on osteoclast formation. Osteoclast progenitors deprived of M-CSF in culture adopted a uniform morphology and exhibited cell cycle arrest at the G0–G1 phase in association with both down-regulation of cyclins A and D1 as well as up-regulation of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p27Kip1. Such M-CSF deprivation also promoted the differentiation of osteoclast progenitors into multinucleated osteoclasts expressing high levels of osteoclast marker proteins such as NFATc1, c-Fos, Atp6v0d2, cathepsin K, and integrin β3 on subsequent exposure to M-CSF and RANKL. Our results suggest that synchronized arrest and reprogramming of osteoclast progenitors renders them poised to respond to inducers of osteoclast formation. Further characterization of such effects may facilitate induction of the differentiation of heterogeneous and multipotent cells into desired cell lineages. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

4503 KiB  
Article
Bioinformatics and Microarray Analysis of miRNAs in Aged Female Mice Model Implied New Molecular Mechanisms for Impaired Fracture Healing
by Bing He, Zong-Kang Zhang, Jin Liu, Yi-Xin He, Tao Tang, Jie Li, Bao-Sheng Guo, Ai-Ping Lu, Bao-Ting Zhang and Ge Zhang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(8), 1260; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms17081260 - 03 Aug 2016
Cited by 27 | Viewed by 7868
Abstract
Impaired fracture healing in aged females is still a challenge in clinics. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in fracture healing. This study aims to identify the miRNAs that potentially contribute to the impaired fracture healing in aged females. Transverse femoral shaft fractures were [...] Read more.
Impaired fracture healing in aged females is still a challenge in clinics. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in fracture healing. This study aims to identify the miRNAs that potentially contribute to the impaired fracture healing in aged females. Transverse femoral shaft fractures were created in adult and aged female mice. At post-fracture 0-, 2- and 4-week, the fracture sites were scanned by micro computed tomography to confirm that the fracture healing was impaired in aged female mice and the fracture calluses were collected for miRNA microarray analysis. A total of 53 significantly differentially expressed miRNAs and 5438 miRNA-target gene interactions involved in bone fracture healing were identified. A novel scoring system was designed to analyze the miRNA contribution to impaired fracture healing (RCIFH). Using this method, 11 novel miRNAs were identified to impair fracture healing at 2- or 4-week post-fracture. Thereafter, function analysis of target genes was performed for miRNAs with high RCIFH values. The results showed that high RCIFH miRNAs in aged female mice might impair fracture healing not only by down-regulating angiogenesis-, chondrogenesis-, and osteogenesis-related pathways, but also by up-regulating osteoclastogenesis-related pathway, which implied the essential roles of these high RCIFH miRNAs in impaired fracture healing in aged females, and might promote the discovery of novel therapeutic strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Figure 1

2761 KiB  
Article
Salvianolic Acid A, as a Novel ETA Receptor Antagonist, Shows Inhibitory Effects on Tumor in Vitro
by Qiao Zhang, Shifeng Wang, Yangyang Yu, Shengnan Sun, Yuxin Zhang, Yanling Zhang, Wei Yang, Shiyou Li and Yanjiang Qiao
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(8), 1244; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms17081244 - 02 Aug 2016
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 6547
Abstract
Endothelin-1 (ET-1) autocrine and paracrine signaling modulate cell proliferation of tumor cells by activating its receptors, endothelin A receptor (ETAR) and endothelin B receptor (ETBR). Dysregulation of ETAR activation promotes tumor development and progression. The potential of [...] Read more.
Endothelin-1 (ET-1) autocrine and paracrine signaling modulate cell proliferation of tumor cells by activating its receptors, endothelin A receptor (ETAR) and endothelin B receptor (ETBR). Dysregulation of ETAR activation promotes tumor development and progression. The potential of ETAR antagonists and the dual-ETAR and ETBR antagonists as therapeutic approaches are under preclinical and clinical studies. Salvianolic acid A (Sal A) is a hydrophilic polyphenolic derivative isolated from Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Danshen), which has been reported as an anti-cancer and cardio-protective herbal medicine. In this study, we demonstrate that Sal A inhibits ETAR activation induced by ET-1 in both recombinant and endogenous ETAR expression cell lines. The IC50 values were determined as 5.7 µM in the HEK293/ETAR cell line and 3.14 µM in HeLa cells, respectively. Furthermore, our results showed that Sal A suppressed cell proliferation and extended the doubling times of multiple cancer cells, including HeLa, DU145, H1975, and A549 cell lines. In addition, Sal A inhibited proliferation of DU145 cell lines stimulated by exogenous ET-1 treatment. Moreover, the cytotoxicity and cardio-toxicity of Sal A were assessed in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) and Human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPS-CMs), which proved that Sal A demonstrates no cytotoxicity or cardiotoxicity. Collectively, our findings indicate that Sal A is a novel anti-cancer candidate through targeting ETAR. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Figure 1

2400 KiB  
Article
Synthesis, Crystal Study, and Anti-Proliferative Activity of Some 2-Benzimidazolylthioacetophenones towards Triple-Negative Breast Cancer MDA-MB-468 Cells as Apoptosis-Inducing Agents
by Hatem A. Abdel-Aziz, Wagdy M. Eldehna, Hazem Ghabbour, Ghada H. Al-Ansary, Areej M. Assaf and Abdullah Al-Dhfyan
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(8), 1221; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms17081221 - 29 Jul 2016
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 5193
Abstract
On account of its poor prognosis and deficiency of therapeutic stratifications, triple negative breast cancer continues to form the causative platform of an incommensurate number of breast cancer deaths. Aiming at the development of potent anticancer agents as a continuum of our previous [...] Read more.
On account of its poor prognosis and deficiency of therapeutic stratifications, triple negative breast cancer continues to form the causative platform of an incommensurate number of breast cancer deaths. Aiming at the development of potent anticancer agents as a continuum of our previous efforts, a novel series of 2-((benzimidazol-2-yl)thio)-1-arylethan-1-ones 5aw was synthesized and evaluated for its anti-proliferative activity towards triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) MDA-MB-468 cells. Compound 5k was the most active analog against MDA-MB-468 (IC50 = 19.90 ± 1.37 µM), with 2.1-fold increased activity compared to 5-fluorouracil (IC50 = 41.26 ± 3.77 µM). Compound 5k was able to induce apoptosis in MDA-MB-468, as evidenced by the marked boosting in the percentage of florecsein isothiocyanate annexin V (Annexin V–FITC)-positive apoptotic cells (upper right (UR) + lower right (LR)) by 2.8-fold in comparison to control accompanied by significant increase in the proportion of cells at pre-G1 (the first gap phase) by 8.13-fold in the cell-cycle analysis. Moreover, a quantitative structure activity relationship (QSAR) model was established to investigate the structural requirements orchestrating the anti-proliferative activity. Finally, we established a theoretical kinetic study. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

385 KiB  
Article
Intra-Articular Injections of Platelet-Rich Plasma versus Hyaluronic Acid in the Treatment of Osteoarthritic Knee Pain: A Randomized Clinical Trial in the Context of the Spanish National Health Care System
by Elvira Montañez-Heredia, Sofia Irízar, Pedro J. Huertas, Esperanza Otero, Marta Del Valle, Isidro Prat, Macarena S. Díaz-Gallardo, Macarena Perán, Juan A. Marchal and María Del Carmen Hernandez-Lamas
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(7), 1064; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms17071064 - 02 Jul 2016
Cited by 92 | Viewed by 9102
Abstract
Intra-articular injection of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been established as a suitable treatment for knee osteoarthritis. Here, we present a double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial, conducted in a public Hospital of the Spanish National Health Care System, to evaluate the efficacy of injecting [...] Read more.
Intra-articular injection of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been established as a suitable treatment for knee osteoarthritis. Here, we present a double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial, conducted in a public Hospital of the Spanish National Health Care System, to evaluate the efficacy of injecting autologous PRP versus hyaluronic acid (HA) in knee osteoarthritis. PRP was manufactured in Malaga’s Regional Blood Center (Spain). Patients that met the eligibility criteria were randomized into a PRP group or a HA group. Pain and functional improvements were assessed pre- and post-treatment (three and six months follow-up) using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS); the Knee and Osteoarthritis Outcome System (KOOS) scale and the European Quality of Life scale (EUROQOL). Both groups presented pain reduction at six months. The VAS scores for the PRP group improved by at least 50% from their initial value, particularly at three months following the final infiltration, with results resembling those of the HA group at six months. PRP was more effective in patients with lower osteoarthritis grades. Both treatments improved pain in knee osteoarthritis patients without statistically significant differences between them. However, PRP injection was proved to improve pain three months after the final infiltration and to be more effective in lower osteoarthritis grades. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Figure 1

5306 KiB  
Article
Discovery of a Potential HER2 Inhibitor from Natural Products for the Treatment of HER2-Positive Breast Cancer
by Jianzong Li, Haiyang Wang, Junjie Li, Jinku Bao and Chuanfang Wu
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(7), 1055; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms17071055 - 01 Jul 2016
Cited by 29 | Viewed by 7772
Abstract
Breast cancer is one of the most lethal types of cancer in women worldwide due to the late stage detection and resistance to traditional chemotherapy. The human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) is considered as a validated target in breast cancer therapy. [...] Read more.
Breast cancer is one of the most lethal types of cancer in women worldwide due to the late stage detection and resistance to traditional chemotherapy. The human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) is considered as a validated target in breast cancer therapy. Even though a substantial effort has been made to develop HER2 inhibitors, only lapatinib has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Side effects were observed in a majority of the patients within one year of treatment initiation. Here, we took advantage of bioinformatics tools to identify novel effective HER2 inhibitors. The structure-based virtual screening combined with ADMET (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity) prediction was explored. In total, 11,247 natural compounds were screened. The top hits were evaluated by an in vitro HER2 kinase inhibition assay. The cell proliferation inhibition effect of identified inhibitors was evaluated in HER2-overexpressing SKBR3 and BT474 cell lines. We found that ZINC15122021 showed favorable ADMET properties and attained high binding affinity against HER2. Moreover, ZINC15122021 showed high kinase inhibition activity against HER2 and presented outstanding cell proliferation inhibition activity against both SKBR3 and BT474 cell lines. Results reveal that ZINC15122021 can be a potential HER2 inhibitor. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

11386 KiB  
Article
Computational Identification of the Paralogs and Orthologs of Human Cytochrome P450 Superfamily and the Implication in Drug Discovery
by Shu-Ting Pan, Danfeng Xue, Zhi-Ling Li, Zhi-Wei Zhou, Zhi-Xu He, Yinxue Yang, Tianxin Yang, Jia-Xuan Qiu and Shu-Feng Zhou
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(7), 1020; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms17071020 - 28 Jun 2016
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 9149
Abstract
The human cytochrome P450 (CYP) superfamily consisting of 57 functional genes is the most important group of Phase I drug metabolizing enzymes that oxidize a large number of xenobiotics and endogenous compounds, including therapeutic drugs and environmental toxicants. The CYP superfamily has been [...] Read more.
The human cytochrome P450 (CYP) superfamily consisting of 57 functional genes is the most important group of Phase I drug metabolizing enzymes that oxidize a large number of xenobiotics and endogenous compounds, including therapeutic drugs and environmental toxicants. The CYP superfamily has been shown to expand itself through gene duplication, and some of them become pseudogenes due to gene mutations. Orthologs and paralogs are homologous genes resulting from speciation or duplication, respectively. To explore the evolutionary and functional relationships of human CYPs, we conducted this bioinformatic study to identify their corresponding paralogs, homologs, and orthologs. The functional implications and implications in drug discovery and evolutionary biology were then discussed. GeneCards and Ensembl were used to identify the paralogs of human CYPs. We have used a panel of online databases to identify the orthologs of human CYP genes: NCBI, Ensembl Compara, GeneCards, OMA (“Orthologous MAtrix”) Browser, PATHER, TreeFam, EggNOG, and Roundup. The results show that each human CYP has various numbers of paralogs and orthologs using GeneCards and Ensembl. For example, the paralogs of CYP2A6 include CYP2A7, 2A13, 2B6, 2C8, 2C9, 2C18, 2C19, 2D6, 2E1, 2F1, 2J2, 2R1, 2S1, 2U1, and 2W1; CYP11A1 has 6 paralogs including CYP11B1, 11B2, 24A1, 27A1, 27B1, and 27C1; CYP51A1 has only three paralogs: CYP26A1, 26B1, and 26C1; while CYP20A1 has no paralog. The majority of human CYPs are well conserved from plants, amphibians, fishes, or mammals to humans due to their important functions in physiology and xenobiotic disposition. The data from different approaches are also cross-validated and validated when experimental data are available. These findings facilitate our understanding of the evolutionary relationships and functional implications of the human CYP superfamily in drug discovery. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

2757 KiB  
Article
Hypoxia Potentiates Anabolic Effects of Exogenous Hyaluronic Acid in Rat Articular Cartilage
by Shohei Ichimaru, Shuji Nakagawa, Yuji Arai, Tsunao Kishida, Masaharu Shin-Ya, Kuniaki Honjo, Shinji Tsuchida, Hiroaki Inoue, Hiroyoshi Fujiwara, Seiji Shimomura, Osam Mazda and Toshikazu Kubo
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(7), 1013; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms17071013 - 25 Jun 2016
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 5527
Abstract
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is used clinically to treat osteoarthritis (OA), but its pharmacological effects under hypoxic conditions remain unclear. Articular chondrocytes in patients with OA are exposed to a hypoxic environment. This study investigated whether hypoxia could potentiate the anabolic effects of exogenous [...] Read more.
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is used clinically to treat osteoarthritis (OA), but its pharmacological effects under hypoxic conditions remain unclear. Articular chondrocytes in patients with OA are exposed to a hypoxic environment. This study investigated whether hypoxia could potentiate the anabolic effects of exogenous HA in rat articular cartilage and whether these mechanisms involved HA receptors. HA under hypoxic conditions significantly enhanced the expression of extracellular matrix genes and proteins in explant culture, as shown by real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), Western blotting, and dimethylmethylene blue (DMMB) assays. Staining with Safranin-O and immunohistochemical staining with antibody to type II collagen were also enhanced in pellet culture. The expression of CD44 was increased by hypoxia and significantly suppressed by transfection with siRNAs targeting hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha (siHIF-1α). These findings indicate that hypoxia potentiates the anabolic effects of exogenous HA by a mechanism in which HIF-1α positively regulates the expression of CD44, enhancing the binding affinity for exogenous HA. The anabolic effects of exogenous HA may increase as OA progresses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Figure 1

7271 KiB  
Article
Intravenous Administration Is an Effective and Safe Route for Cancer Gene Therapy Using the Bifidobacterium-Mediated Recombinant HSV-1 Thymidine Kinase and Ganciclovir
by Huicong Zhou, Zhiliang He, Changdong Wang, Tingting Xie, Lin Liu, Chuanyang Liu, Fangzhou Song and Yongping Ma
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(6), 891; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms17060891 - 06 Jun 2016
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 5853
Abstract
The herpes simplex virus thymidine kinase/ganciclovir (HSV TK/GCV) system is one of the best studied cancer suicide gene therapy systems. Our previous study showed that caspase 3 expression was upregulated and bladder tumor growth was significantly reduced in rats treated with a combination [...] Read more.
The herpes simplex virus thymidine kinase/ganciclovir (HSV TK/GCV) system is one of the best studied cancer suicide gene therapy systems. Our previous study showed that caspase 3 expression was upregulated and bladder tumor growth was significantly reduced in rats treated with a combination of Bifidobacterium (BF) and HSV TK/GCV (BF-rTK/GCV). However, it was raised whether the BF-mediated recombinant thymidine kinase combined with ganciclovir (BF-rTK/GCV) was safe to administer via venous for cancer gene therapy. To answer this question, the antitumor effects of BF-rTK/GCV were mainly evaluated in a xenograft nude mouse model bearing MKN-45 gastric tumor cells. The immune response, including analysis of cytokine profiles, was analyzed to evaluate the safety of intramuscular and intravenous injection of BF-rTK in BALB/c mice. The results suggested that gastric tumor growth was significantly inhibited in vivo by BF-rTK/GCV. However, the BF-rTK/GCV had no effect on mouse body weight, indicating that the treatment was safe for the host. The results of cytokine profile analysis indicated that intravenous injection of a low dose of BF-rTK resulted in a weaker cytokine response than that obtained with intramuscular injection. Furthermore, immunohistochemical analysis showed that intravenous administration did not affect the expression of immune-associated TLR2 and TLR4. Finally, the BF-rTK/GCV inhibited vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression in mouse model, which is helpful for inhibiting of tumor angiogenesis. That meant intravenous administration of BF-rTK/GCV was an effective and safe way for cancer gene therapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

3241 KiB  
Article
Dehydroeburicoic Acid from Antrodia camphorata Prevents the Diabetic and Dyslipidemic State via Modulation of Glucose Transporter 4, Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor α Expression and AMP-Activated Protein Kinase Phosphorylation in High-Fat-Fed Mice
by Yueh-Hsiung Kuo, Cheng-Hsiu Lin and Chun-Ching Shih
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(6), 872; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms17060872 - 03 Jun 2016
Cited by 22 | Viewed by 6519
Abstract
This study investigated the potential effects of dehydroeburicoic acid (TT), a triterpenoid compound from Antrodia camphorata, in vitro and examined the effects and mechanisms of TT on glucose and lipid homeostasis in high-fat-diet (HFD)-fed mice. The in vitro study examined the effects [...] Read more.
This study investigated the potential effects of dehydroeburicoic acid (TT), a triterpenoid compound from Antrodia camphorata, in vitro and examined the effects and mechanisms of TT on glucose and lipid homeostasis in high-fat-diet (HFD)-fed mice. The in vitro study examined the effects of a MeOH crude extract (CruE) of A. camphorata and Antcin K (AnK; the main constituent of fruiting body of this mushroom) on membrane glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) and phospho-Akt in C2C12 myoblasts cells. The in vitro study demonstrated that treatment with CruE, AnK and TT increased the membrane levels of glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) and phospho-Akt at different concentrations. The animal experiments were performed for 12 weeks. Diabetic mice were randomly divided into six groups after 8 weeks of HFD-induction and treated with daily oral gavage doses of TT (at three dose levels), fenofibrate (Feno) (at 0.25 g/kg body weight), metformin (Metf) (at 0.3 g/kg body weight) or vehicle for another 4 weeks while on an HFD diet. HFD-fed mice exhibited increased blood glucose levels. TT treatment dramatically lowered blood glucose levels by 34.2%~43.4%, which was comparable to the antidiabetic agent-Metf (36.5%). TT-treated mice reduced the HFD-induced hyperglycemia, hypertriglyceridemia, hyperinsulinemia, hyperleptinemia, and hypercholesterolemia. Membrane levels of GLUT4 were significantly higher in CruE-treated groups in vitro. Skeletal muscle membrane levels of GLUT4 were significantly higher in TT-treated mice. These groups of mice also displayed lower mRNA levels of glucose-6-phosphatase (G6 Pase), an inhibitor of hepatic glucose production. The combination of these agents produced a net hypoglycemic effect in TT-treated mice. TT treatment enhanced the expressions of hepatic and skeletal muscle AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) phosphorylation in mice. TT-treated mice exhibited enhanced expression of hepatic fatty acid oxidation enzymes, including peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα) and increased mRNA levels of carnitine palmitoyl transferase Ia (CPT-1a). These mice also exhibited decreased expression levels of lipogenic fatty acid synthase (FAS) in liver and adipose tissue and reduced mRNA levels of hepatic adipocyte fatty acid binding protein 2 (aP2) and glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase (GPAT). These alterations resulted in a reduction in fat stores within the liver and lower triglyceride levels in blood. Our results demonstrate that TT is an excellent therapeutic approach for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and hypertriglyceridemia. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

2179 KiB  
Article
One-Pot Three-Component Synthesis of Novel Diethyl((2-oxo-1,2-dihydroquinolin-3-yl)(arylamino)methyl)phosphonate as Potential Anticancer Agents
by Yi-Lin Fang, Zhi-Lin Wu, Meng-Wu Xiao, Yu-Ting Tang, Kang-Ming Li, Jiao Ye, Jian-Nan Xiang and Ai-Xi Hu
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(5), 653; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms17050653 - 29 Apr 2016
Cited by 22 | Viewed by 5550
Abstract
With the aim of discovering new anticancer agents, we have designed and synthesized novel α-aminophosphonate derivatives containing a 2-oxoquinoline structure using a convenient one-pot three-component method. The newly synthesized compounds were evaluated for antitumor activities against the A549 (human lung adenocarcinoma cell), HeLa [...] Read more.
With the aim of discovering new anticancer agents, we have designed and synthesized novel α-aminophosphonate derivatives containing a 2-oxoquinoline structure using a convenient one-pot three-component method. The newly synthesized compounds were evaluated for antitumor activities against the A549 (human lung adenocarcinoma cell), HeLa (human cervical carcinoma cell), MCF-7 (human breast cancer cell), and U2OS (human osteosarcoma cell) cancer cell lines in vitro, employing a standard 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. The results of pharmacological screening indicated that many compounds exhibited moderate to high levels of antitumor activities against the tested cancer cell lines and that most compounds showed more potent inhibitory activities comparable to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) which was used as a positive control. The mechanism of representative compound 4u (diethyl((2-oxo-1,2-dihydroquinolin-3-yl)(phenyl-amino)methyl)phosphonate) indicated that the compound mainly arrested HeLa cells in S and G2 stages and was accompanied by apoptosis in HeLa cells. This action was confirmed by acridine orange/ethidium bromide staining, Hoechst 33342 staining, and flow cytometry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Figure 1

3402 KiB  
Article
Piperlongumine Suppresses Proliferation of Human Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma through Cell Cycle Arrest, Apoptosis and Senescence
by San-Yuan Chen, Geng-Hung Liu, Wen-Ying Chao, Chung-Sheng Shi, Ching-Yen Lin, Yun-Ping Lim, Chieh-Hsiang Lu, Peng-Yeh Lai, Hau-Ren Chen and Ying-Ray Lee
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(4), 616; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms17040616 - 23 Apr 2016
Cited by 31 | Viewed by 5983
Abstract
Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), an aggressive cancer originating in the oral cavity, is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths in males worldwide. This study investigated the antitumor activity and mechanisms of piperlongumine (PL), a natural compound isolated from Piper longum [...] Read more.
Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), an aggressive cancer originating in the oral cavity, is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths in males worldwide. This study investigated the antitumor activity and mechanisms of piperlongumine (PL), a natural compound isolated from Piper longum L., in human OSCC cells. The effects of PL on cell proliferation, the cell cycle, apoptosis, senescence and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in human OSCC cells were investigated. PL effectively inhibited cell growth, caused cell cycle arrest and induced apoptosis and senescence in OSCC cells. Moreover, PL-mediated anti-human OSCC behavior was inhibited by an ROS scavenger N-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC) treatment, suggesting that regulation of ROS was involved in the mechanism of the anticancer activity of PL. These findings suggest that PL suppresses tumor growth by regulating the cell cycle and inducing apoptosis and senescence and is a potential chemotherapy agent for human OSCC cells. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Figure 1

4136 KiB  
Article
Intra-Articular Injection of Cross-Linked Hyaluronic Acid-Dexamethasone Hydrogel Attenuates Osteoarthritis: An Experimental Study in a Rat Model of Osteoarthritis
by Zhiwei Zhang, Xiaochun Wei, Jizong Gao, Yu Zhao, Yamin Zhao, Li Guo, Chongwei Chen, Zhiqing Duan, Pengcui Li and Lei Wei
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(4), 411; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms17040411 - 15 Apr 2016
Cited by 62 | Viewed by 10530
Abstract
Cross-linked hyaluronic acid hydrogel (cHA gel) and dexamethasone (Dex) have been used to treat knee osteoarthritis (OA) in clinical practice owing to their chondroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects, respectively. The aim of the present study was to compare the treatment effects of the cHA [...] Read more.
Cross-linked hyaluronic acid hydrogel (cHA gel) and dexamethasone (Dex) have been used to treat knee osteoarthritis (OA) in clinical practice owing to their chondroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects, respectively. The aim of the present study was to compare the treatment effects of the cHA gel pre-mixed with/without Dex in a surgery-induced osteoarthritis model in rats. Anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT) surgery was performed on the right knee of rats to induce OA. Male 2-month-old Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups (n = 10/per group): (1) ACLT + saline; (2) ACLT + cHA gel; (3) ACLT + cHA-Dex (0.2 mg/mL) gel; (4) ACLT + cHA-Dex (0.5 mg/mL) gel; (5) Sham + saline. Intra-joint injections were performed four weeks after ACLT in the right knee. All animals were euthanized at 12 weeks post-surgery. Cartilage damage and changes in the synovial membrane were assessed by micro X-ray, Indian ink articular surface staining, Safranin-O/Fast Green staining, immunohistochemistry, hematoxylin and eosin staining of the synovial membrane, and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction for changes in gene expression. Micro X-ray revealed that the knee joint treated with the cHA-Dex gel was wider than those treated with cHA gel alone or saline. The cHA-Dex gel group had less Indian ink staining (indicator of cartilage fibrillation) than the cHA gel or saline injection groups. Safranin-O/Fast Green staining indicated that increased proteoglycan staining and less cartilage damage were found in the cHA-Dex gel group compared with the cHA gel or saline injection groups. Quantification of histology findings from saline, cHA gel, cHA-Dex (0.2 mg/mL) gel, cHA-Dex (0.5 mg/mL) gel, and sham groups were 5.84 ± 0.29, 4.50 ± 0.87, 3.00 ± 1.00, 2.00 ± 0.48, and 0.30 ± 0.58 (p < 0.05), respectively. A strong staining of type II collagen was found in both the cHA-Dex gel groups compared with saline group or cHA alone group. Similar result was found for the mRNA level of aggrecan and opposite result for type X collagen. Hematoxylin and eosin staining in the synovial membrane showed less synovial lining cell layers and reduced inflammatory cell infiltration in cHA-Dex gel-treated animals compared with saline or cHA only groups. Altogether, cHA-Dex gel has better chondroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects in rat surgery-induced osteoarthritis than cHA alone. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

5453 KiB  
Article
GL-1196 Suppresses the Proliferation and Invasion of Gastric Cancer Cells via Targeting PAK4 and Inhibiting PAK4-Mediated Signaling Pathways
by Jian Zhang, Hong-Yan Zhang, Jian Wang, Liang-Hao You, Rui-Zhi Zhou, Dong-Mei Zhao, Mao-Sheng Cheng and Feng Li
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(4), 470; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms17040470 - 11 Apr 2016
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 6180
Abstract
Gastric cancer, which is the most common malignant gastrointestinal tumor, has jumped to the third leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. It is of great importance to identify novel and potent drugs for gastric cancer treatment. P21-activated kinase 4 (PAK4) has emerged as [...] Read more.
Gastric cancer, which is the most common malignant gastrointestinal tumor, has jumped to the third leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. It is of great importance to identify novel and potent drugs for gastric cancer treatment. P21-activated kinase 4 (PAK4) has emerged as an attractive target for the development of anticancer drugs in consideration of its vital functions in tumorigenesis and progression. In this paper, we reported that GL-1196, as a small molecular compound, effectively suppressed the proliferation of human gastric cancer cells through downregulation of PAK4/c-Src/EGFR/cyclinD1 pathway and CDK4/6 expression. Moreover, GL-1196 prominently inhibited the invasion of human gastric cancer cells in parallel with blockage of the PAK4/LIMK1/cofilin pathway. Interestingly, GL-1196 also inhibited the formation of filopodia and induced cell elongation in SGC7901 and BGC823 cells. Taken together, these results provided novel insights into the potential therapeutic strategy for gastric cancer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

Review

Jump to: Research, Other

3932 KiB  
Review
dIvergEnt: How IgE Axis Contributes to the Continuum of Allergic Asthma and Anti-IgE Therapies
by Óscar Palomares, Silvia Sánchez-Ramón, Ignacio Dávila, Luis Prieto, Luis Pérez de Llano, Marta Lleonart, Christian Domingo and Antonio Nieto
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(6), 1328; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18061328 - 21 Jun 2017
Cited by 45 | Viewed by 9246
Abstract
Asthma is an airway disease characterised by chronic inflammation with intermittent or permanent symptoms including wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and cough, which vary in terms of their occurrence, frequency, and intensity. The most common associated feature in the airways of patients [...] Read more.
Asthma is an airway disease characterised by chronic inflammation with intermittent or permanent symptoms including wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and cough, which vary in terms of their occurrence, frequency, and intensity. The most common associated feature in the airways of patients with asthma is airway inflammation. In recent decades, efforts have been made to characterise the heterogeneous clinical nature of asthma. The interest in improving the definitions of asthma phenotypes and endotypes is growing, although these classifications do not always correlate with prognosis nor are always appropriate therapeutic approaches. Attempts have been made to identify the most relevant molecular and cellular biomarkers underlying the immunopathophysiological mechanisms of the disease. For almost 50 years, immunoglobulin E (IgE) has been identified as a central factor in allergic asthma, due to its allergen-specific nature. Many of the mechanisms of the inflammatory cascade underlying allergic asthma have already been elucidated, and IgE has been shown to play a fundamental role in the triggering, development, and chronicity of the inflammatory responses within the disease. Blocking IgE with monoclonal antibodies such as omalizumab have demonstrated their efficacy, effectiveness, and safety in treating allergic asthma. A better understanding of the multiple contributions of IgE to the inflammatory continuum of asthma could contribute to the development of novel therapeutic strategies for the disease. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Figure 1

2357 KiB  
Review
Neurogenic Traditional Chinese Medicine as a Promising Strategy for the Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease
by Sravan Gopalkrishnashetty Sreenivasmurthy, Jing-Yi Liu, Ju-Xian Song, Chuan-Bin Yang, Sandeep Malampati, Zi-Ying Wang, Ying-Yu Huang and Min Li
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(2), 272; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18020272 - 28 Jan 2017
Cited by 43 | Viewed by 11496
Abstract
Hippocampal neurogenesis plays a critical role in the formation of new neurons during learning and memory development. Attenuation of neurogenesis in the brain is one of the primary causes of dementia in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and, conversely, modulating the process of hippocampal neurogenesis [...] Read more.
Hippocampal neurogenesis plays a critical role in the formation of new neurons during learning and memory development. Attenuation of neurogenesis in the brain is one of the primary causes of dementia in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and, conversely, modulating the process of hippocampal neurogenesis benefit patients with AD. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), particularly herbal medicine, has been in use for thousands of years in Asia and many regions of the world for the treatment of cancer, cardiovascular diseases and neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we summarize the role of neurotrophic factors, signal transducing factors, epigenetic modulators and neurotransmitters in neurogenesis, and we also discuss the functions of several Chinese herbs and their active molecules in activating multiple pathways involved in neurogenesis. TCM herbs target pathways such as Notch, Wnt, Sonic Hedgehog and receptor tyrosine kinase pathway, leading to activation of a signaling cascade that ultimately enhances the transcription of several important genes necessary for neurogenesis. Given these pathway activating effects, the use of TCM herbs could be an effective therapeutic strategy for the treatment of AD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

570 KiB  
Review
Recent Methods for Purification and Structure Determination of Oligonucleotides
by Qiulong Zhang, Huanhuan Lv, Lili Wang, Man Chen, Fangfei Li, Chao Liang, Yuanyuan Yu, Feng Jiang, Aiping Lu and Ge Zhang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(12), 2134; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms17122134 - 18 Dec 2016
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 6856
Abstract
Aptamers are single-stranded DNA or RNA oligonucleotides that can interact with target molecules through specific three-dimensional structures. The excellent features, such as high specificity and affinity for target proteins, small size, chemical stability, low immunogenicity, facile chemical synthesis, versatility in structural design and [...] Read more.
Aptamers are single-stranded DNA or RNA oligonucleotides that can interact with target molecules through specific three-dimensional structures. The excellent features, such as high specificity and affinity for target proteins, small size, chemical stability, low immunogenicity, facile chemical synthesis, versatility in structural design and engineering, and accessible for site-specific modifications with functional moieties, make aptamers attractive molecules in the fields of clinical diagnostics and biopharmaceutical therapeutics. However, difficulties in purification and structural identification of aptamers remain a major impediment to their broad clinical application. In this mini-review, we present the recently attractive developments regarding the purification and identification of aptamers. We also discuss the advantages, limitations, and prospects for the major methods applied in purifying and identifying aptamers, which could facilitate the application of aptamers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Figure 1

495 KiB  
Review
Development of Cell-SELEX Technology and Its Application in Cancer Diagnosis and Therapy
by Man Chen, Yuanyuan Yu, Feng Jiang, Junwei Zhou, Yongshu Li, Chao Liang, Lei Dang, Aiping Lu and Ge Zhang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(12), 2079; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms17122079 - 10 Dec 2016
Cited by 86 | Viewed by 9605
Abstract
SELEX (systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment) is a process involving the progressive isolation of high selective ssDNA/RNA from a combinatorial single-stranded oligonucleotide library through repeated rounds of binding, partitioning and amplification. SELEX-derived single-stranded DNA/RNA molecules, called aptamers, are selected against a [...] Read more.
SELEX (systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment) is a process involving the progressive isolation of high selective ssDNA/RNA from a combinatorial single-stranded oligonucleotide library through repeated rounds of binding, partitioning and amplification. SELEX-derived single-stranded DNA/RNA molecules, called aptamers, are selected against a wide range of targets, including purified proteins, live cells, tissues, microorganisms, small molecules and so on. With the development of SELEX technology over the last two decades, various modified SELEX processes have been arisen. A majority of aptamers are selected against purified proteins through traditional SELEX. Unfortunately, more and more evidence showed aptamers selected against purified membrane proteins failed to recognize their targets in live cells. Cell-SELEX could develop aptamers against a particular target cell line to discriminate this cell line from others. Therefore, cell-SELEX has been widely used to select aptamers for the application of both diagnosis and therapy of various diseases, especially for cancer. In this review, the advantages and limitations of cell-SELEX and SELEX against purified protein will be compared. Various modified cell-SELEX techniques will be summarized, and application of cell-SELEX in cancer diagnosis and therapy will be discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Figure 1

268 KiB  
Review
Metabolomics and Its Application in the Development of Discovering Biomarkers for Osteoporosis Research
by Huanhuan Lv, Feng Jiang, Daogang Guan, Cheng Lu, Baosheng Guo, Chileung Chan, Songlin Peng, Baoqin Liu, Wenwei Guo, Hailong Zhu, Xuegong Xu, Aiping Lu and Ge Zhang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(12), 2018; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms17122018 - 02 Dec 2016
Cited by 55 | Viewed by 7604
Abstract
Osteoporosis is a progressive skeletal disorder characterized by low bone mass and increased risk of fracture in later life. The incidence and costs associated with treating osteoporosis cause heavy socio-economic burden. Currently, the diagnosis of osteoporosis mainly depends on bone mineral density and [...] Read more.
Osteoporosis is a progressive skeletal disorder characterized by low bone mass and increased risk of fracture in later life. The incidence and costs associated with treating osteoporosis cause heavy socio-economic burden. Currently, the diagnosis of osteoporosis mainly depends on bone mineral density and bone turnover markers. However, these indexes are not sensitive and accurate enough to reflect the osteoporosis progression. Metabolomics offers the potential for a holistic approach for clinical diagnoses and treatment, as well as understanding of the pathological mechanism of osteoporosis. In this review, we firstly describe the study subjects of osteoporosis and bio-sample preparation procedures for different analytic purposes, followed by illustrating the biomarkers with potentially predictive, diagnosis and pharmaceutical values when applied in osteoporosis research. Then, we summarize the published metabolic pathways related to osteoporosis. Furthermore, we discuss the importance of chronological data and combination of multi-omics in fully understanding osteoporosis. The application of metabolomics in osteoporosis could provide researchers the opportunity to gain new insight into the metabolic profiling and pathophysiological mechanisms. However, there is still much to be done to validate the potential biomarkers responsible for the progression of osteoporosis and there are still many details needed to be further elucidated. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

724 KiB  
Review
Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of 3,3′-Diindolylmethane in Gastrointestinal Cancer
by Soo Mi Kim
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(7), 1155; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms17071155 - 19 Jul 2016
Cited by 36 | Viewed by 6325
Abstract
Studies in humans have shown that 3,3′-diindolylmethane (DIM), which is found in cruciferous vegetables, such as cabbage and broccoli, is effective in the attenuation of gastrointestinal cancers. This review presents the latest findings on the use, targets, and modes of action of DIM [...] Read more.
Studies in humans have shown that 3,3′-diindolylmethane (DIM), which is found in cruciferous vegetables, such as cabbage and broccoli, is effective in the attenuation of gastrointestinal cancers. This review presents the latest findings on the use, targets, and modes of action of DIM for the treatment of human gastrointestinal cancers. DIM acts upon several cellular and molecular processes in gastrointestinal cancer cells, including apoptosis, autophagy, invasion, cell cycle regulation, metastasis, angiogenesis, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. In addition, DIM increases the efficacy of other drugs or therapeutic chemicals when used in combinatorial treatment for gastrointestinal cancer. The studies to date offer strong evidence to support the use of DIM as an anticancer and therapeutic agent for gastrointestinal cancer. Therefore, this review provides a comprehensive understanding of the preventive and therapeutic properties of DIM in addition to its different perspective on the safety of DIM in clinical applications for the treatment of gastrointestinal cancers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Figure 1

3543 KiB  
Review
Prodrug Strategies for Paclitaxel
by Ziyuan Meng, Quanxia Lv, Jun Lu, Houzong Yao, Xiaoqing Lv, Feng Jiang, Aiping Lu and Ge Zhang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(5), 796; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms17050796 - 23 May 2016
Cited by 70 | Viewed by 10784
Abstract
Paclitaxel is an anti-tumor agent with remarkable anti-tumor activity and wide clinical uses. However, it is also faced with various challenges especially for its poor water solubility and low selectivity for the target. To overcome these disadvantages of paclitaxel, approaches using small molecule [...] Read more.
Paclitaxel is an anti-tumor agent with remarkable anti-tumor activity and wide clinical uses. However, it is also faced with various challenges especially for its poor water solubility and low selectivity for the target. To overcome these disadvantages of paclitaxel, approaches using small molecule modifications and macromolecule modifications have been developed by many research groups from all over the world. In this review, we discuss the different strategies especially prodrug strategies that are currently used to make paclitaxel more effective. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

685 KiB  
Review
Matrilin-3 Role in Cartilage Development and Osteoarthritis
by Manjunatha S. Muttigi, Inbo Han, Hun-Kuk Park, Hansoo Park and Soo-Hong Lee
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(4), 590; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms17040590 - 20 Apr 2016
Cited by 23 | Viewed by 6565
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) of cartilage performs essential functions in differentiation and chondroprogenitor cell maintenance during development and regeneration. Here, we discuss the vital role of matrilin-3, an ECM protein involved in cartilage development and potential osteoarthritis pathomechanisms. As an adaptor protein, matrilin-3 [...] Read more.
The extracellular matrix (ECM) of cartilage performs essential functions in differentiation and chondroprogenitor cell maintenance during development and regeneration. Here, we discuss the vital role of matrilin-3, an ECM protein involved in cartilage development and potential osteoarthritis pathomechanisms. As an adaptor protein, matrilin-3 binds to collagen IX to form a filamentous network around cells. Matrilin-3 is an essential component during cartilage development and ossification. In addition, it interacts directly or indirectly with transforming growth factor β (TGF-β), and bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) eventually regulates chondrocyte proliferation and hypertrophic differentiation. Interestingly, matrilin-3 increases interleukin receptor antagonists (IL-Ra) in chondrocytes, suggesting its role in the suppression of IL-1β-mediated inflammatory action. Matrilin-3 downregulates the expression of matrix-degrading enzymes, such as a disintegrin metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs 4 (ADAMTS4) and ADAMTS5, matrix metalloproteinase 13 (MMP13), and collagen X, a hypertrophy marker during development and inflammatory conditions. Matrilin-3 essentially enhances collagen II and aggrecan expression, which are required to maintain the tensile strength and elasticity of cartilage, respectively. Interestingly, despite these attributes, matrilin-3 induces osteoarthritis-associated markers in chondrocytes in a concentration-dependent manner. Existing data provide insights into the critical role of matrilin-3 in inflammation, matrix degradation, and matrix formation in cartilage development and osteoarthritis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

3579 KiB  
Review
Linkers Having a Crucial Role in Antibody–Drug Conjugates
by Jun Lu, Feng Jiang, Aiping Lu and Ge Zhang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(4), 561; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms17040561 - 14 Apr 2016
Cited by 191 | Viewed by 17517
Abstract
Antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) comprised of a desirable monoclonal antibody, an active cytotoxic drug and an appropriate linker are considered to be an innovative therapeutic approach for targeted treatment of various types of tumors and cancers, enhancing the therapeutic parameter of the cytotoxic drug [...] Read more.
Antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) comprised of a desirable monoclonal antibody, an active cytotoxic drug and an appropriate linker are considered to be an innovative therapeutic approach for targeted treatment of various types of tumors and cancers, enhancing the therapeutic parameter of the cytotoxic drug and reducing the possibility of systemic cytotoxicity. An appropriate linker between the antibody and the cytotoxic drug provides a specific bridge, and thus helps the antibody to selectively deliver the cytotoxic drug to tumor cells and accurately releases the cytotoxic drug at tumor sites. In addition to conjugation, the linkers maintain ADCs’ stability during the preparation and storage stages of the ADCs and during the systemic circulation period. The design of linkers for ADCs is a challenge in terms of extracellular stability and intracellular release, and intracellular circumstances, such as the acid environment, the reducing environment and cathepsin, are considered as the catalysts to activate the triggers for initiating the cleavage of ADCs. This review discusses the linkers used in the clinical and marketing stages for ADCs and details the fracture modes of the linkers for the further development of ADCs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

1144 KiB  
Review
Present Advances and Future Perspectives of Molecular Targeted Therapy for Osteosarcoma
by Atik Badshah Shaikh, Fangfei Li, Min Li, Bing He, Xiaojuan He, Guofen Chen, Baosheng Guo, Defang Li, Feng Jiang, Lei Dang, Shaowei Zheng, Chao Liang, Jin Liu, Cheng Lu, Biao Liu, Jun Lu, Luyao Wang, Aiping Lu and Ge Zhang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(4), 506; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms17040506 - 06 Apr 2016
Cited by 98 | Viewed by 9211
Abstract
Osteosarcoma (OS) is a bone cancer mostly occurring in pediatric population. Current treatment regime of surgery and intensive chemotherapy could cure about 60%–75% patients with primary osteosarcoma, however only 15% to 30% can be cured when pulmonary metastasis or relapse has taken place. [...] Read more.
Osteosarcoma (OS) is a bone cancer mostly occurring in pediatric population. Current treatment regime of surgery and intensive chemotherapy could cure about 60%–75% patients with primary osteosarcoma, however only 15% to 30% can be cured when pulmonary metastasis or relapse has taken place. Hence, novel precise OS-targeting therapies are being developed with the hope of addressing this issue. This review summarizes the current development of molecular mechanisms and targets for osteosarcoma. Therapies that target these mechanisms with updated information on clinical trials are also reviewed. Meanwhile, we further discuss novel therapeutic targets and OS-targeting drug delivery systems. In conclusion, a full insight in OS pathogenesis and OS-targeting strategies would help us explore novel targeted therapies for metastatic osteosarcoma. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

734 KiB  
Review
Molecular Insight into Gut Microbiota and Rheumatoid Arthritis
by Xiaohao Wu, Bing He, Jin Liu, Hui Feng, Yinghui Ma, Defang Li, Baosheng Guo, Chao Liang, Lei Dang, Luyao Wang, Jing Tian, Hailong Zhu, Lianbo Xiao, Cheng Lu, Aiping Lu and Ge Zhang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(3), 431; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms17030431 - 22 Mar 2016
Cited by 65 | Viewed by 12627
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic, inflammatory, and autoimmune disorder. Gut microbiota play an important role in the etiology of RA. With the considerable progress made in next-generation sequencing techniques, the identified gut microbiota difference between RA patients and healthy individuals provides an [...] Read more.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic, inflammatory, and autoimmune disorder. Gut microbiota play an important role in the etiology of RA. With the considerable progress made in next-generation sequencing techniques, the identified gut microbiota difference between RA patients and healthy individuals provides an updated overview of the association between gut microbiota and RA. We reviewed the reported correlation and underlying molecular mechanisms among gut microbiota, the immune system, and RA. It has become known that gut microbiota contribute to the pathogenesis of RA via multiple molecular mechanisms. The progressive understanding of the dynamic interaction between gut microbiota and their host will help in establishing a highly individualized management for each RA patient, and achieve a better efficacy in clinical practice, or even discovering new drugs for RA. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

Other

Jump to: Research, Review

2 pages, 707 KiB  
Correction
Correction: Shao et al. AKT Axis, miR-21, and RECK Play Pivotal Roles in Dihydroartemisinin Killing Malignant Glioma Cells. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18, 350
by Ying-Ying Shao, Tao-Lan Zhang, Lan-Xiang Wu, He-Cun Zou, Shuang Li, Jin Huang and Hong-Hao Zhou
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(23), 12670; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms222312670 - 24 Nov 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1228
Abstract
The authors wish to make the following corrections to this paper [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Molecular Medicine & Molecular Drug Discovery)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Back to TopTop