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17 pages, 4237 KB  
Article
Isoflavones with Multifaceted Activities Synergistically Sensitize Pseudomonas aeruginosa to Antibiotics In Vitro and In Vivo
by Dan-Dan Li, Tong Xia, Xin-Yu Zhang, Huiyan Li, Wen-Xin Niu, Tie Yao, Joon-Hee Lee and Li-Li Wang
Antibiotics 2026, 15(9), 829; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics15090829 - 26 Aug 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a notorious multidrug-resistant pathogen that causes serious acute and chronic infections by employing quorum sensing (QS)-regulated virulence, biofilm formation, and host-damaging inflammation. To overcome the yield limitation of two previously identified marine secondary metabolites with dual QS inhibitory [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a notorious multidrug-resistant pathogen that causes serious acute and chronic infections by employing quorum sensing (QS)-regulated virulence, biofilm formation, and host-damaging inflammation. To overcome the yield limitation of two previously identified marine secondary metabolites with dual QS inhibitory and PPAR-γ agonistic activities, we further screened marine-derived natural products for more abundant candidates with similar anti-virulence and anti-inflammatory properties. Methods: In this study, isoflavones were evaluated for anti-QS and PPAR-γ transactivation activities using reporter gene assays, and for antibacterial, anti-virulence, and anti-inflammatory effects via broth microdilution, biofilm, G. mellonella infection, and ELISA cytokine assays. Results: Daidzein and genistein were selected for their optimal anti-QS and PPAR-γ activation activities. They inhibited a key QS regulator and suppressed pyocyanin production and biofilm formation in P. aeruginosa without affecting bacterial growth, indicating minimal selective pressure for resistance. In addition, daidzein and genistein were found to synergistically sensitize the wild-type P. aeruginosa strain to gentamicin, carbenicillin, tobramycin, ampicillin, and polymyxin B, and synergistically or partially synergistically sensitize a multidrug-resistant strain to gentamicin, tobramycin, and ampicillin. Moreover, a Galleria mellonella infection model confirmed that daidzein and genistein significantly enhance the efficacy of gentamicin against P. aeruginosa infection in vivo. Furthermore, in host macrophages, daidzein and genistein significantly inhibited LPS-induced production of NO, IL-6, and IL-1β when combined with an RXR agonist, implying a protective effect on host tissues through PPAR-γ activation. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that daidzein and genistein serve as effective adjuncts to conventional antibiotics, exerting multifaceted actions against P. aeruginosa infection. Full article
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32 pages, 2251 KB  
Review
Perirenal Adipose Tissue in Cardiovascular Disease: From Molecular Insights to Therapeutic Perspectives
by Adriana Grigoraș, Rodica Radu, Andrei Prodaniuc, Florin Dumitru Petrariu, Viorel Dragoș Radu and Cornelia Amalinei
Biomedicines 2026, 14(8), 1804; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14081804 - 11 Aug 2026
Viewed by 369
Abstract
Perirenal adipose tissue (PRAT) has emerged as a clinically relevant endocrine organ connecting obesity to cardiovascular disease (CVD), chronic kidney disease, and certain malignancies. Its unique anatomical location, surrounding the kidneys, accounts for PRAT’s role in altering intrarenal haemodynamics and hydrostatic pressure. Accordingly, [...] Read more.
Perirenal adipose tissue (PRAT) has emerged as a clinically relevant endocrine organ connecting obesity to cardiovascular disease (CVD), chronic kidney disease, and certain malignancies. Its unique anatomical location, surrounding the kidneys, accounts for PRAT’s role in altering intrarenal haemodynamics and hydrostatic pressure. Accordingly, PRAT’s expansion is associated with the activation of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS), further increasing blood pressure. Adipokine dysregulation, together with overexpression of miR-24-3p, miR-155, miR-146a, and miR-21 in PRAT, modulates inflammation and oxidative stress, leading to endothelial dysfunction and increased risk of atherosclerosis and hypertension in obesity. Imaging assessment of PRAT thickness through computed tomography, magnetic resonance, or ultrasound has also emerged as a complementary measure for the evaluation of CVD risk. Potential therapeutic strategies targeting PRAT include lifestyle interventions, antidiabetic agents, RAAS inhibitors, adipose tissue browning agents, NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome inhibitors, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) agonists, and surgery. Currently, novel therapeutic interventions targeting PRAT activity in CVD, such as senotherapeutic strategies, bioengineering approaches aimed at enhancing adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cell (ADMSC) function, gut microbiota modulation, and colchicine and bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) administration, are also being explored. In light of these findings, PRAT’s clinical relevance extends beyond its energy storage role, highlighting it as a metabolically active fat depot. Its assessment and therapeutic modulation may complement existing cardiovascular prevention strategies, particularly in patients with obesity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Obesity and Obesity-Related Pathology)
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21 pages, 2038 KB  
Review
Retinoic Acid Receptor γ Is a Ligand-Activated Gatekeeper to Stem Cell Developmental Progression
by William Eustace Basil Johnson, Caitlin McQueen and Geoffrey Brown
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(16), 7160; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27167160 - 11 Aug 2026
Viewed by 262
Abstract
RARγ is expressed during embryogenesis by stem/primitive progenitor cells, indicating a role in controlling their development. Supporting this view is that a physiological level of 10 nM of the RARγ agonist AGN205327 blocked stem/progenitor cell differentiation during zebrafish embryogenesis, mouse gastruloid development, and [...] Read more.
RARγ is expressed during embryogenesis by stem/primitive progenitor cells, indicating a role in controlling their development. Supporting this view is that a physiological level of 10 nM of the RARγ agonist AGN205327 blocked stem/progenitor cell differentiation during zebrafish embryogenesis, mouse gastruloid development, and adult chondro- and osteogenesis. Similarly, transgene expression of RARγ or the use of the RARγ agonist CD437 enhanced the generation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from human and mouse somatic cells. RARγ regulates many events that control the behavior of stem/progenitor cells regarding whether they develop to give rise to mature cells. RARγ positively regulates the expressions of NOTCH ligands and their receptors, transforming growth factors (TGFs), and molecules pertaining to cell identity, extracellular matrix communication, and all-trans retinoic acid synthesis and catabolism. The genes that are repressed by RARγ include RARγ, PPARγ, and RXRα. RARγ integrates into Wnt/β-catenin and TGFβ signaling by acting as a co-factor to the gene co-activator β-catenin and transcription factor Smad3, respectively. Within the cytoplasm, RARγ regulates Akt/NF-κB signaling. As a model, we propose that ATRA ligand-activated RARγ acts as a gatekeeper to stem cell developmental progression during embryogenesis and that this role extends to stem/progenitor cell homeostasis within adult tissues. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Latest Review Papers in Molecular and Cellular Biology)
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14 pages, 530 KB  
Review
Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Agonists in Primary Biliary Cholangitis and Other Liver Diseases: Mechanisms, Clinical Evidence, and Future Directions
by Gurleen Kaur, Rahul Jain, Palak Grover, Zarqa Yasin and Bipneet Singh
Livers 2026, 6(4), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/livers6040077 - 10 Aug 2026
Viewed by 239
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are ligand-activated nuclear transcription factors comprising three isoforms—PPARα, PPARγ, and PPARβ/δ—that regulate hepatic lipid metabolism, glucose homeostasis, inflammation, bile acid synthesis, and fibrogenesis. Because liver diseases involve overlapping metabolic, inflammatory, cholestatic, and fibrotic pathways, PPAR agonists have emerged as [...] Read more.
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are ligand-activated nuclear transcription factors comprising three isoforms—PPARα, PPARγ, and PPARβ/δ—that regulate hepatic lipid metabolism, glucose homeostasis, inflammation, bile acid synthesis, and fibrogenesis. Because liver diseases involve overlapping metabolic, inflammatory, cholestatic, and fibrotic pathways, PPAR agonists have emerged as a versatile therapeutic class across a spectrum of hepatic conditions. PPARα agonists (e.g., fenofibrate) promote fatty acid β-oxidation and suppress de novo lipogenesis; PPARγ agonists (e.g., pioglitazone) improve insulin sensitivity and exert anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic effects; and PPARδ agonists (e.g., seladelpar) regulate bile acid and cholesterol metabolism. Dual agonists (elafibranor [PPARα/δ] and saroglitazar [PPARα/γ]) and pan-PPAR agonists (lanifibranor [PPARα/γ/δ] and bezafibrate) aim to simultaneously address multiple pathogenic mechanisms. In primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), elafibranor and seladelpar received accelerated FDA approval in 2024 based on phase 3 trials (ELATIVE and RESPONSE, respectively), demonstrating significant biochemical response rates of 51% and 62% versus 4% and 20% with the placebo. Long-term open-label extension data from the ELATIVE trial have demonstrated sustained improvements in cholestatic biomarkers and stabilization of fibrosis markers over three years, with durable benefits on fatigue and pruritus. The ASSURE open-label study has confirmed the durability of seladelpar’s effects on biochemical response and pruritus through up to two years of treatment. Saroglitazar, a dual PPARα/γ agonist, has shown positive topline phase 3 results in the EPICS-III trial and received an FDA priority review designation. Bezafibrate has shown a survival benefit in large retrospective analyses and is used as a second-line therapy in Europe and Japan; notably, bezafibrate functions as a dual PPAR/pregnane X receptor (PXR) agonist, inducing CYP3A4 and efflux transporters that contribute to bile acid detoxification. In metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD)/metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), pioglitazone remains the most extensively studied PPAR agonist, with meta-analytic evidence supporting MASH resolution and fibrosis reduction regardless of diabetes status. Lanifibranor demonstrated histological improvement in the phase 2b NATIVE trial and is currently in phase 3 development (NATiV3). PPAR agonists have also demonstrated therapeutic effects on liver fibrosis inhibition through direct modulation of hepatic stellate cell activation and suppression of fibrogenic signaling. This narrative review synthesizes the molecular pharmacology of PPAR isoforms; the available clinical and preclinical evidence for mono-, dual-, and pan-PPAR agonists; and their therapeutic applications across MASLD/MASH, alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD), PBC, primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), intestinal failure-associated liver disease (IFALD), and advanced chronic liver disease (ACLD). The evolution from single-isoform to multi-isoform PPAR agonism reflects the recognition that overlapping pathogenic mechanisms in liver diseases may require broader receptor coverage for optimal therapeutic efficacy. Full article
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50 pages, 3177 KB  
Review
Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor (PPAR) Agonists in Chronic Liver Diseases: Translating Mechanistic Insights into Clinical Practice and Future Perspectives
by Mario Romeo, Claudio Basile, Andrea Imperatore, Giambattista Mozzi, Fiammetta Di Nardo, Carmine Napolitano, Paolo Vaia, Luigi Di Puorto, Mattia Indipendente, Marcello Dallio and Alessandro Federico
Cells 2026, 15(14), 1292; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells15141292 - 19 Jul 2026
Viewed by 801
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARα, PPARβ/δ, and PPARγ) are ligand-activated nuclear transcription factors that orchestrate key metabolic and immuno-inflammatory networks governing hepatic homeostasis. By regulating fatty acid oxidation, insulin signaling, bile acid metabolism, and hepatic stellate cell activation, PPARs integrate metabolic and inflammatory cues [...] Read more.
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARα, PPARβ/δ, and PPARγ) are ligand-activated nuclear transcription factors that orchestrate key metabolic and immuno-inflammatory networks governing hepatic homeostasis. By regulating fatty acid oxidation, insulin signaling, bile acid metabolism, and hepatic stellate cell activation, PPARs integrate metabolic and inflammatory cues central to the pathogenesis of chronic liver disorders. Chronic liver diseases (CLDs) constitute a major and growing global health burden. Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), now affecting up to one-third of the adult population worldwide, is closely linked to type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and major liver-related events. In parallel, chronic immune-mediated cholestatic liver diseases continue to pose important therapeutic challenges. Although ursodeoxycholic acid remains the standard first-line therapy for primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), and several second-line therapeutic options are now available, a substantial proportion of patients exhibit an incomplete biochemical response, while effective disease-modifying therapies for primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) remain lacking. Across etiologies, persistent metabolic stress, immune-mediated injury, and maladaptive fibrogenesis represent convergent pathogenic pathways. In MASLD, PPAR agonists have shown promising effects on steatosis, necroinflammatory activity, and fibrosis regression in randomized clinical trials, positioning them among the most advanced pharmacological strategies currently under investigation. In cholestatic liver diseases, selective and dual PPAR agonists have demonstrated significant improvements in cholestasis, pruritus, and markers of disease activity, supporting their role as second-line or adjunctive therapy. This review critically appraises the current preclinical and clinical evidence on the role of PPARs in CLDs, delineates the underlying molecular mechanisms, and discusses future therapeutic perspectives. Although the available evidence is encouraging, most clinical studies have primarily demonstrated improvements in surrogate biochemical and histological endpoints rather than hard clinical outcomes. Ongoing phase III trials and long-term outcome studies will be essential to define the role of PPAR agonists within future therapeutic algorithms for CLDs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of PPARs in Disease - Volume IV)
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20 pages, 2930 KB  
Article
Sex-Specific and Reproductive Status-Dependent Effects of Liraglutide on Metabolic Disorders Associated with Prediabetes
by Lucie Lebertová, Irena Marková, Martina Hüttl, Kristýna Černá, Iveta Zapletalová and Hana Malínská
Antioxidants 2026, 15(6), 729; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15060729 - 9 Jun 2026
Viewed by 522
Abstract
Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) have been shown to have beneficial effects in T2D, reducing hepatic lipid storage and improving metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. However, sex and reproductive age may influence their effect. We investigated the effect of liraglutide administration (0.2 [...] Read more.
Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) have been shown to have beneficial effects in T2D, reducing hepatic lipid storage and improving metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. However, sex and reproductive age may influence their effect. We investigated the effect of liraglutide administration (0.2 mg/kg/day subcutaneously for 8 weeks) on metabolic disorders in relation to sex and reproductive age, using male, female and ovariectomized female hereditary hypertriglyceridemic (HHTg) rats as a prediabetic model. Liraglutide improved glucose tolerance in all HHTg rats. Female and ovariectomized (OVX) female rats showed a stronger effect of lipid metabolism and visceral adiposity than males. Moreover, no changes in hepatic triacylglycerol (TAG) accumulation were observed in males. Liraglutide partially reversed ovariectomy effects, such as increased body weight, visceral obesity and impaired glucose tolerance. Compared with males, female and OVX female rats showed more significant changes in hepatic gene expression involved in lipogenesis (Scd-1, Srebp1, Pparγ), fatty acid and lipid metabolism (Pparα, Hmgcr, Srebp2) and fibrosis (Tgfβ), which may improve hepatic lipid metabolism. Females of fertile age showed greater improvements in insulin sensitivity, reductions in ectopic lipid accumulation, and improvements in lipid metabolism. Depending on sex and reproductive status, liraglutide can mitigate fatty liver before diabetes onset. Full article
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26 pages, 13397 KB  
Article
Phenyllactic Acid Restores Intestinal Epithelial Barrier to Alleviate Hypertriglyceridemic Acute Pancreatitis via a PPARγ-Dependent Mechanism
by Ze-Yun Cao, Xun Zou, Hong-Li Li, Xuan Kong, Li-Long Pan, Jun Yang and Xiao-Liang Dong
Antioxidants 2026, 15(6), 676; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15060676 - 28 May 2026
Viewed by 573
Abstract
Hypertriglyceridemic acute pancreatitis (HTG-AP) progresses rapidly with poor prognosis. Intestinal barrier dysfunction and excessive oxidative stress contribute to its pathogenesis, but specific mediators linking gut injury, oxidative stress and pancreatic damage remain unclear. Here, we identify endogenous phenyllactic acid (PLA) as a critical [...] Read more.
Hypertriglyceridemic acute pancreatitis (HTG-AP) progresses rapidly with poor prognosis. Intestinal barrier dysfunction and excessive oxidative stress contribute to its pathogenesis, but specific mediators linking gut injury, oxidative stress and pancreatic damage remain unclear. Here, we identify endogenous phenyllactic acid (PLA) as a critical metabolite regulating intestinal barrier integrity and oxidative homeostasis in HTG-AP. We noted serum PLA, a disease-associated metabolite whose reduction correlates with gut dysbiosis and pancreatic inflammation in HTG-AP. PLA supplementation in HTG-AP mice attenuated intestinal barrier dysfunction and mitigated intestinal oxidative stress, as evidenced by improved gut dysbiosis, reduced reactive oxygen species accumulation, restored superoxide dismutase activity, restored barrier integrity, reduced bacterial translocation to the pancreas, and decreased serum lipopolysaccharide levels, ultimately mitigating pancreatic injury. RNA sequencing of colonic tissue revealed peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) signaling as one of the most significantly altered pathways in HTG-AP. PPARγ expression was markedly reduced in colonic epithelial cells and upregulated upon PLA treatment. Knockdown of colonic epithelial PPARγ via adeno-associated virus abrogated the beneficial effects of PLA on intestinal barrier integrity, oxidative stress and pancreatic injury in HTG-AP mice. The protective effects of PLA were phenocopied by the PPARγ agonist rosiglitazone. Collectively, these findings identified gut microbiota-derived PLA as an endogenously derived metabolite modulating intestinal oxidative stress and barrier function. Using male C57BL/6J mice to establish an HTG-AP model, we further revealed that PLA exerts protective effects against HTG-AP by targeting colonic PPARγ to modulate the gut–pancreas axis, highlighting PLA as a promising candidate for targeted intervention in HTG-AP. Full article
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22 pages, 4740 KB  
Article
Tracking of Neuroinflammation Dynamics During Combined Anti-β-Amyloid Therapy (AAT) and Immunomodulation in a Preclinical Alzheimer’s Disease Model
by Karin Wind-Mark, Lea H. Kunze, Michael Willem, Giovanna Palumbo, Camilla Giudici, Brigitte Nuscher, Guido Boening, Franz J. Gildehaus, Simon Lindner, Rudolf A. Werner, Nicolai Franzmeier, Johannes S. Gnörich, Matthias Brendel and Artem Zatcepin
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(10), 4632; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27104632 - 21 May 2026
Viewed by 813
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is increasingly recognized as a key modulator of therapeutic response and adverse events in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), especially during anti-amyloid-β (Aβ) monoclonal antibody (Aβ-mAb) treatment. We applied longitudinal translocator protein (TSPO) positron emission tomography (PET) to evaluate TSPO-associated neuroinflammatory responses to chronic [...] Read more.
Neuroinflammation is increasingly recognized as a key modulator of therapeutic response and adverse events in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), especially during anti-amyloid-β (Aβ) monoclonal antibody (Aβ-mAb) treatment. We applied longitudinal translocator protein (TSPO) positron emission tomography (PET) to evaluate TSPO-associated neuroinflammatory responses to chronic Aβ-mAb therapy and their modulation by the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) agonist pioglitazone. AppNL-G-F knock-in mice underwent TSPO-PET and Aβ-PET imaging at 5, 7.5, and 10 months of age across four treatment arms: placebo, Aβ-mAb, pioglitazone, and combination therapy. TSPO-PET detected early and progressive neuroinflammatory responses to Aβ-mAb that appeared lower with pioglitazone co-treatment. Both mono- and combination therapy were associated with altered temporal and spatial dynamics of the TSPO-PET signal. In addition, we applied a previously validated microglia desynchronization index based on TSPO-PET connectivity, which captured individual variation in regional TSPO-PET organization and correlated with cognitive performance. Together, TSPO-PET and its regional synchronicity can quantify longitudinal, region-specific treatment effects, which may help differentiate harmful from adaptive neuroinflammatory responses. These findings highlight the potential of TSPO-PET as a stratification biomarker to optimize therapeutic interventions. TSPO-PET therefore enables in vivo tracking of treatment-associated neuroinflammatory responses during anti-Aβ immunotherapy and provides a non-invasive framework for evaluating combination strategies targeting amyloid pathology and immune regulation in AD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Advances in Neuroimaging)
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36 pages, 5917 KB  
Article
Epidermal PPARγ Signaling as a Suppressor of Toll-like Receptor-Mediated Inflammation and Fibrosis: Relevance to Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma
by Raymond L. Konger and Ethel Derr-Yellin
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(9), 4136; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27094136 - 5 May 2026
Viewed by 973
Abstract
Mice lacking epidermal Pparg (Pparg-/-epi) exhibit increased cutaneous carcinogenesis, while PPARγ signaling is reduced in actinic keratoses (AKs) and cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas (cSCCs). Using transcriptomic analysis, we now show that the top upregulated genes in Pparg-/-epi [...] Read more.
Mice lacking epidermal Pparg (Pparg-/-epi) exhibit increased cutaneous carcinogenesis, while PPARγ signaling is reduced in actinic keratoses (AKs) and cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas (cSCCs). Using transcriptomic analysis, we now show that the top upregulated genes in Pparg-/-epi mouse skin, human AKs and cSCCs encode multiple damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) that are TLR4 ligands, while the TLR4 agonist lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is also predicted to be the top common activated upstream regulator in both Pparg-/-epi mouse skin and in tumor datasets. By single-cell sequencing, DAMP expression was particularly elevated in myeloid cells and myofibroblasts of Pparg-/-epi mice, and these cell types exhibit transcriptional changes consistent with TLR4 signaling. Myeloid cells also exhibited a loss of Pparg expression and activity. Transcriptional analysis of published LPS-treated macrophages also reveals a decrease in PPARγ activity. Fibroblasts from Pparg-/-epi mice included cells with a gene expression profile resembling myofibroblasts found in cancer and fibrotic diseases. This was accompanied by increased dermal fibrosis in aged mice and a transcriptomic profile that indicates a key role for both TLR4 and TGFβ signaling. These data suggest that loss of epidermal PPARγ may disrupt counterbalancing PPARγ–TLR4 signals, leading to chronic inflammation and fibrosis, hallmarks of cutaneous neoplasia. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pathogenesis and Treatment of Skin Cancer (2nd Edition))
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16 pages, 4713 KB  
Article
Eicosapentaenoic Acid Attenuates Inflammation in an LPS-Induced Mouse Model of Mastitis Partly Through Modulation of the PPARγ–NF-κB Signaling Pathway
by Zhiwei Duan, Ting Lu, Kejiang Liu, Xiaoxuan Zhao, Wenkai Bai, Bohao Zhang, Quanwei Zhang, Xingxu Zhao, Weitao Dong and Yong Zhang
Biomolecules 2026, 16(4), 592; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom16040592 - 16 Apr 2026
Viewed by 1227
Abstract
Mastitis is a common inflammatory disease that harms mammary gland health. Its development is closely linked to dysregulated inflammatory signaling. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), an omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid, has potential anti-inflammatory effects. However, its molecular mechanism in mastitis prevention remains unclear. In this [...] Read more.
Mastitis is a common inflammatory disease that harms mammary gland health. Its development is closely linked to dysregulated inflammatory signaling. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), an omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid, has potential anti-inflammatory effects. However, its molecular mechanism in mastitis prevention remains unclear. In this study, we used both in vivo and in vitro models to evaluate how EPA pretreatment regulates mastitis-related inflammatory signaling. Transcriptome analysis showed that differentially expressed genes after EPA treatment were mainly enriched in the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) signaling pathway. In an LPS-induced mastitis model, EPA restored the LPS-reduced PPARγ protein level and suppressed NF-κB p65 activation, consistent with reduced nuclear translocation of p65. Similar effects were observed in mammary epithelial cells, where EPA inhibited NF-κB activation at 50 and 100 μM. Functional experiments further showed that a PPARγ agonist mimicked the inhibitory effect of EPA on p65, whereas PPARγ antagonist partially abrogated EPA-mediated inhibition of p65. Collectively, these data indicate that EPA attenuates mastitis-associated inflammation at least in part through the PPARγ–NF-κB axis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Medicine)
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20 pages, 13343 KB  
Article
Chiglitazar Activates PPAR-α/γ to Suppress Oxidative Stress and Angiogenesis in Corneal Neovascularization
by Tao Tao, Jiyuan Ye, Ruifeng Li, Yan Ke, Xiaoqin Zheng, Qinghe Zhang, Lan Zheng, Shuwen Wang, Zhen Zhang, Le Wang and Cheng Li
Antioxidants 2026, 15(4), 449; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15040449 - 2 Apr 2026
Viewed by 969
Abstract
Purpose: Chiglitazar (Chi) is a pan-peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) agonist with reported anti-oxidative effects in metabolic disorders. In this study, we investigate its therapeutic effects and potential mechanisms in corneal neovascularization (CNV). Methods: Scratch-wound and tube formation assays in human umbilical vein endothelial [...] Read more.
Purpose: Chiglitazar (Chi) is a pan-peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) agonist with reported anti-oxidative effects in metabolic disorders. In this study, we investigate its therapeutic effects and potential mechanisms in corneal neovascularization (CNV). Methods: Scratch-wound and tube formation assays in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were performed to evaluate the effects of Chi under recombinant human vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) stimulation. An oxidative stress model was established in human corneal epithelial cells (HCEs), and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were quantified by flow cytometry. A corneal alkali burn mouse model of CNV was established. Chi was then administered and compared with vehicle, pioglitazone, or fenofibrate. Corneal epithelial healing and neovascularization were assessed. Public drug–disease–target resources were integrated with RNA-seq data and single-cell transcriptomes to prioritize Chi-associated targets and pathways, which were examined by immunofluorescence, RT-PCR, and Western blotting. Ocular safety was evaluated by comprehensive ophthalmic evaluation. Results: Chi significantly inhibited migration and tube formation in VEGF-induced HUVECs, and flow cytometry confirmed effective ROS reduction. In vivo, Chi markedly improved corneal conditions compared with the vehicle and showed efficacy comparable to or superior to selective PPAR-α/γ agonists, depending on the outcome measures. Bioinformatic analyses predicted PPAR-γ as the dominant isoform, with PPAR-α secondary and PPAR-δ appearing less prominent, collectively implicating oxidative stress and VEGF pathways. Immunofluorescence verified PPAR-γ activation, predominantly localized to the corneal epithelium. RT-PCR and Western blotting supported activation of antioxidant pathways and suppression of angiogenic signals, with Western blotting confirming PPAR-γ and PPAR-α activation, whereas PPAR-δ activation appeared less evident under the present conditions. Ocular examinations demonstrated a favorable safety profile. Conclusions: Chi primarily activates PPAR-γ and PPAR-α, producing antioxidant and anti-angiogenic benefits, supporting its potential as a multi-target PPAR therapy for CNV. Full article
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22 pages, 3239 KB  
Article
Neuroprotective Role of Pioglitazone Against LPS-Induced Neuroinflammation in Wistar Rats, Targeting Superoxide Dismutase, Lipid Peroxidation and Cognitive Changes
by Vandana Blossom, Sheetal Dinkar Ullal, Rajalakshmi Rai, Anupama Hegde, Sharada Rai and Anita Sherly A
Oxygen 2026, 6(2), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/oxygen6020006 - 25 Mar 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1206
Abstract
Systemic inflammation leading to neuroinflammation is a matter of concern in recent years because of its implication with neurological disorders. Selective peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) agonists have shown promising anti-inflammatory effects in various neurodegenerative diseases. With pioglitazone being one such PPAR-γ agonist, [...] Read more.
Systemic inflammation leading to neuroinflammation is a matter of concern in recent years because of its implication with neurological disorders. Selective peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) agonists have shown promising anti-inflammatory effects in various neurodegenerative diseases. With pioglitazone being one such PPAR-γ agonist, our study was aimed at investigating the role of pioglitazone on oxidative stress and cognitive changes against LPS-induced neuroinflammation in rats. In-house-bred male Wistar rats, about six weeks old, were utilized for the present study. They were categorized as A (preventive) and B (curative) groups, each with five subgroups: control (1A and 1B), neuro-inflammatory (2A and 2B), and three different dosages of pioglitazone treatment (3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, and 5A, 5B). After the experimental period, cognitive changes were examined by behavioral tests. Brain homogenate was used for biochemical parameters. Deteriorated memory, superoxide dismutase activity and increase in lipid peroxidation in the brain tissue induced by LPS exposure were substantially alleviated (p < 0.001) by pioglitazone treatment. These results suggest that pioglitazone may be neuroprotective against LPS-induced neuroinflammation. Full article
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17 pages, 1362 KB  
Review
Basic Molecular and Genetic Pathways Underlying Intracranial Aneurysm Formation in the Era of Molecular and Targeted Therapies: A 10-Year Review
by Denise Baloi, Henry Freeman, Moneebah Ashraf, Michael Karsy, Brandon Lucke-Wold and Mehrdad Pahlevani
J. Vasc. Dis. 2026, 5(2), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/jvd5020015 - 24 Mar 2026
Viewed by 1319
Abstract
Introduction: Intracranial aneurysms (IAs) are focal dilatations of cerebral arteries that carry a significant risk of rupture and subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). Advances in basic science have improved understanding of vascular wall biology, hemodynamic stress, inflammation, and genetic contribution to aneurysm rupture. Rapid progress [...] Read more.
Introduction: Intracranial aneurysms (IAs) are focal dilatations of cerebral arteries that carry a significant risk of rupture and subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). Advances in basic science have improved understanding of vascular wall biology, hemodynamic stress, inflammation, and genetic contribution to aneurysm rupture. Rapid progress in neurovascular therapeutics highlights the need to evaluate emerging molecular and pharmacologic strategies targeting IAs. Methodology: This narrative review synthesizes evidence from 2015 to 2025 on the cellular, molecular, and biomechanical mechanisms underlying IA pathophysiology. A structured search of PubMed, Scopus, and Embase identified studies examining molecular pathways, genetic determinants, and therapeutic approaches. Discussion: Aneurysm initiation involves endothelial responses to abnormal shear stress, activating NF-κB, MAPK, and calcium-dependent pathways that promote inflammation, smooth-muscle cell apoptosis, and extracellular matrix degradation. Pharmacologic candidates including MCP-1 antagonists, PPARγ agonists, and IL-6/STAT3 inhibitors reduce inflammatory remodeling, while doxycycline and cathepsin inhibitors preserve matrix integrity. Emerging strategies like microRNA modulation, tyrosine-kinase inhibition, and gene-based delivery offer potential for localized, durable stabilization with minimal systemic toxicity. Conclusions: Integrating surgical and biologic therapies may shift IA management from reactive repair to rupture prevention. Full article
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22 pages, 10611 KB  
Article
Pioglitazone Attenuates Sepsis-Associated Acute Kidney Injury by Modulating TLR-4/NF-κB Signaling and Improving Survival and Renal Function
by Nadir Adnan Hacım, Ahmet Akbaş, Bakiye Akbaş, Gülçin Ercan, Ahmet Serdaroglu, Hatice Aygun and Oytun Erbas
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(6), 2270; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15062270 - 17 Mar 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 837
Abstract
Aim: Sepsis-associated acute kidney injury (SA-AKI) remains a major cause of mortality, driven by inflammation and oxidative stress. Pioglitazone, a PPAR-γ agonist, has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects beyond glycemic control. This study evaluated its renoprotective efficacy in a rat model of [...] Read more.
Aim: Sepsis-associated acute kidney injury (SA-AKI) remains a major cause of mortality, driven by inflammation and oxidative stress. Pioglitazone, a PPAR-γ agonist, has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects beyond glycemic control. This study evaluated its renoprotective efficacy in a rat model of sepsis induced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). Methods: Thirty-six female Wistar rats were divided into Control, CLP + Saline, and CLP + Pioglitazone (10 mg/kg/day) groups. Survival was analyzed for 5 days. Renal function (BUN, creatinine, NGAL), oxidative stress (MDA), antioxidant signaling (NRF2), and inflammatory mediators (TNF-α, IL-6, HMGB1, TLR-4, NF-κB) were quantified by ELISA. Tubular epithelial necrosis, luminal debris, dilatation, hemorrhage, and inflammation were semi-quantitatively scored. Results: CLP caused marked renal dysfunction with elevated BUN, creatinine, and NGAL (p all <0.001 vs. Control). Pioglitazone significantly reduced these markers (p < 0.001 vs. CLP + Saline) and improved survival. Plasma MDA levels increased and renal Nrf2 levels decreased following CLP induction (both p < 0.001 vs. Control), whereas pioglitazone treatment significantly reduced MDA levels and increased NRF2 expression (p = 0.002 and p < 0.001 vs. CLP + Saline, respectively). Inflammatory mediators were markedly increased in sepsis (TNF-α, IL-6, HMGB1, TLR-4, and NF-κB; all p < 0.001 vs. Control) and significantly downregulated by pioglitazone (p < 0.01, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.01, p < 0.01 vs. CLP + Saline, respectively). Histopathological injury was pronounced in septic rats (all p < 0.01 vs. Control) but was markedly ameliorated by pioglitazone p < 0.05, indicating substantial structural recovery. Conclusions: Pioglitazone markedly ameliorates CLP-induced SA-AKI by suppressing TLR-4/NF-κB/TNF-α signaling and oxidative stress, improving renal structure, function, and survival. These findings support its potential repurposing as a therapeutic adjunct in sepsis management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nephrology & Urology)
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Brief Report
PPAR-γ Activation Alleviates Intestinal Dysfunction and Lactose Malabsorption in Experimental Food Allergy Rats
by Yuyang Hao, Lu Yao, Yuxin Jin, Sheng Yin, Zhiwei He and Huilian Che
Nutrients 2026, 18(4), 653; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18040653 - 16 Feb 2026
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Abstract
Background/Objectives: Food allergy-induced intestinal inflammation can impair lactose digestion and absorption by damaging the epithelium, leading to secondary lactase deficiency with no effective treatments. The immunometabolism nuclear receptor PPAR-γ regulates gut epithelial function and nutrient absorption. This study aimed to determine whether PPAR-γ [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Food allergy-induced intestinal inflammation can impair lactose digestion and absorption by damaging the epithelium, leading to secondary lactase deficiency with no effective treatments. The immunometabolism nuclear receptor PPAR-γ regulates gut epithelial function and nutrient absorption. This study aimed to determine whether PPAR-γ activation can preserve lactose digestion and absorption during allergic inflammation and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Methods: In an ovalbumin-sensitized Brown Norway rat model of food allergy, animals were treated with either the PPAR-γ agonist rosiglitazone or the antagonist GW9662. Lactose absorption was assessed by in vivo lactose tolerance tests (blood glucose monitoring) and intestinal transit measurements. Jejunal tissues were analyzed for lactase gene expression, lactase enzyme activity, and SGLT1/GLUT2 transporter levels. Results: Allergic rats exhibited reduced weight gain, delayed intestinal transit, and lactose malabsorption (lower blood glucose after lactose challenge), accompanied by sharply decreased jejunal lactase mRNA, enzyme activity, and SGLT1/GLUT2 levels. Rosiglitazone treatment restored intestinal PPAR-γ expression and markedly improved lactose absorption, normalizing the lactose tolerance curve. Rosiglitazone also increased lactase gene expression and enzyme activity, and upregulated SGLT1 levels. In contrast, PPAR-γ inhibition with GW9662 further reduced lactase and transporter levels and failed to improve absorption. Conclusions: PPAR-γ signaling maintains intestinal lactose digestive capacity of rats during allergic inflammation by sustaining lactase production and monosaccharide transporter expression. Our findings verify an immunometabolism mechanism linking nuclear receptor activation to enhanced nutrient absorption and highlight PPAR-γ agonism as a promising therapeutic strategy to alleviate food allergy-associated lactose malabsorption. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Intake and Inflammatory Bowel Disease)
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