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14 pages, 1807 KB  
Case Report
Bilateral Transient Osteoporosis of the Hip in Pregnancy: Diagnostic Challenges, MRI-Based Approach, and Multidisciplinary Management
by Pavol Zubor, Kristen Olav Lind, Jozef Visnovsky, Petra Zuborova, Guri Grimnes and Cato Kjærvik
Diseases 2026, 14(6), 208; https://doi.org/10.3390/diseases14060208 - 10 Jun 2026
Viewed by 218
Abstract
Background: Pregnancy-related transient osteoporosis of the hip (PR-TOH) is an uncommon and frequently underdiagnosed condition that typically presents with acute hip pain during late pregnancy or the early postpartum period. Because its clinical presentation is nonspecific and overlaps with pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain, [...] Read more.
Background: Pregnancy-related transient osteoporosis of the hip (PR-TOH) is an uncommon and frequently underdiagnosed condition that typically presents with acute hip pain during late pregnancy or the early postpartum period. Because its clinical presentation is nonspecific and overlaps with pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain, the diagnosis is often delayed, and the initial management is suboptimal. Although bilateral involvement has been reported, comparative data on diagnostic work-up, multidisciplinary management, and follow-up remain limited. Case Presentation: We report a case of bilateral PR-TOH in a 35-year-old Caucasian primigravida (G1, P0) who presented at 31 + 6 weeks of gestation with progressively worsening bilateral hip pain that culminated in severe functional impairment and wheelchair dependence. Initial ultrasound, laboratory work-up, and rheumatological screening were inconclusive, and intra-articular corticosteroid injections failed to relieve symptoms and were temporally associated with deterioration of glycaemic control and a periorbital and palmar eczematous rash. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated diffuse bone marrow oedema in both femoral heads with preserved articular cartilage and no evidence of avascular necrosis, supporting a diagnosis of bilateral PR-TOH. Postpartum dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) confirmed reduced bone mineral density at both femoral necks (Z-scores below −2.0). Pregnancy was prolonged until 37 + 4 weeks, and delivery was by elective caesarean section. Postpartum care included analgesia, calcium and vitamin D supplementation, structured physiotherapy, and a graded weight-bearing rehabilitation programme. Bone mineral density improved markedly on follow-up DXA at six months, with complete clinical recovery and no further imaging abnormalities at 12, 24, and 30 months. Conclusions: PR-TOH should be considered in pregnant or postpartum women with persistent hip pain and progressive functional limitation. MRI is the key imaging modality for early diagnosis and for excluding alternative causes, whereas DXA remains the reference standard for quantifying bone mineral density and monitoring recovery. Bilateral presentations require a multidisciplinary, individualised approach that addresses both maternal and obstetric outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue ‘Rare Syndromes: Diagnosis and Treatment’ in 2024–2026)
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12 pages, 1271 KB  
Case Report
Fatal Systemic Infection Caused by Multidrug-Resistant Clostridioides difficile in a Domestic Rabbit: A Comprehensive Case Analysis
by Vlad Iorgoni, Livia Stanga, Paula Nistor, Ioan Cristian Dreghiciu, Alexandru Gligor, Bogdan Florea, Janos Degi, Ionica Iancu, Horia Iorgoni, Cosmin Horatiu Maris, Florin Vlad and Viorel Herman
Antibiotics 2026, 15(6), 572; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics15060572 - 3 Jun 2026
Viewed by 212
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Rabbit farming in Romania is increasingly important for providing high-quality meat, yet productivity is frequently threatened by enteric diseases, particularly in young animals. Among bacterial etiologies, Clostridioides difficile (C. difficile) has emerged as a significant gastrointestinal pathogen, with findings [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Rabbit farming in Romania is increasingly important for providing high-quality meat, yet productivity is frequently threatened by enteric diseases, particularly in young animals. Among bacterial etiologies, Clostridioides difficile (C. difficile) has emerged as a significant gastrointestinal pathogen, with findings suggestive of systemic dissemination and public health implications. This study aimed to investigate a fatal case of C. difficile infection in a farmed rabbit and to characterize the pathogen’s microbiological, toxigenic, and antimicrobial profile. Methods: An 11-month-old male German Giant Spotted rabbit presenting acute diarrhea, anorexia, and rapid deterioration after unsupervised administration of enrofloxacin and sulfaquinoxaline was submitted postmortem. Necropsy was performed, and samples from cecum, colon, liver, spleen, mesenteric lymph nodes, lungs, and femoral bone marrow were collected. Microbiological analysis included selective culture on CCFA medium, ELISA for toxin A and B detection, MALDI-TOF MS identification, PCR confirmation, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing with the VITEK 2 system. Histopathological examination was conducted on intestinal and parenchymal tissues. Results: Necropsy revealed severe congestion and necrosis of the cecal and colonic mucosa, hepatomegaly, splenic congestion, and petechial hemorrhages. C. difficile was isolated from intestinal sites, confirmed as toxigenic by ELISA and PCR. Histopathology showed necrotizing colitis with epithelial desquamation, fibrin deposition, and heterophilic infiltration. The strain exhibited resistance to clindamycin, ampicillin, and tetracycline, with susceptibility to vancomycin, linezolid, and tigecycline. Conclusions: This case demonstrates that C. difficile can cause severe disease in rabbits, particularly following antimicrobial-induced dysbiosis. The findings underscore the importance of prudent antibiotic use, monitoring of toxigenic strains in rabbit populations, and implementation of preventive strategies to mitigate health risks in both animals and potentially humans. Full article
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14 pages, 1475 KB  
Article
Deficiency of Inactive Rhomboid Protein 2 (iRhom2) Attenuates Macrophage Atherogenicity
by Carmen Hannemann, Alica Brettschneider, Phillip van Dijck, Karl Stangl, Antje Ludwig and Bernd Hewing
Biology 2026, 15(11), 860; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15110860 - 30 May 2026
Viewed by 303
Abstract
Inactive rhomboid protein 2 (iRhom2) regulates ADAM17-mediated shedding of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) from immune cells. We previously showed that iRhom2 deficiency attenuates early atherosclerosis in mice. This study aimed to characterize the impact of iRhom2 deficiency on macrophage phenotype and function. Bone [...] Read more.
Inactive rhomboid protein 2 (iRhom2) regulates ADAM17-mediated shedding of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) from immune cells. We previously showed that iRhom2 deficiency attenuates early atherosclerosis in mice. This study aimed to characterize the impact of iRhom2 deficiency on macrophage phenotype and function. Bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) from iRhom2−/− and iRhom2+/+ mice were analyzed for proliferation, phagocytosis, survival of cytotoxic stress, and polarization. Cytokine secretion after LPS stimulation was quantified, and iRhom2 expression under atherogenic stimuli was assessed. Conditioned media from BMDMs (BMDMcM) were applied to human aortic endothelial cells (HAoECs) to evaluate adhesion molecule expression and monocyte adhesion. iRhom2 deficiency did not affect BMDM proliferation, phagocytosis, survival, or polarization marker expression. iRhom2 expression was upregulated in iRhom2+/+ BMDMs by atherogenic stimulation. Following LPS stimulation, TNF-α secretion was decreased and IL-10 secretion was increased in iRhom2−/− compared with iRhom2+/+ BMDMs. HAoEC expression of adhesion molecules—ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and E-selectin—was attenuated after exposure to iRhom2−/− compared with iRhom2+/+ BMDMcM. Monocyte adhesion to HAoECs was reduced following treatment with iRhom2−/− BMDMcM; TNF-α neutralization abolished this effect, indicating TNF-α dependency. iRhom2 deficiency in BMDMs selectively alters macrophage inflammatory cytokine secretion without affecting basal macrophage functions, thereby reducing endothelial activation and monocyte adhesion. These findings identify iRhom2 as a regulator of macrophage–endothelial crosstalk and a potential target to modulate inflammation in atherogenesis. Full article
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21 pages, 2577 KB  
Article
Effect of PI3K-p110α Inhibitor Alpelisib in the Differentiation and Effector Functions of M-CSF and GM-CSF Macrophages
by Cristina Villa-Gómez, Verónica Bermejo, Inmaculada Márquez-Leiva, Jana Baranda, Alejandro C. Briones, Isabel Cervera, Jordi Ochando, José María Rojo and Pilar Portolés
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(10), 4171; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27104171 - 7 May 2026
Viewed by 356
Abstract
Phosphatidylinositol-3-kinases (PI3Ks) are heterodimers of catalytic and regulatory subunits that regulate cell metabolism, activation, and survival. PI3K, particularly the p110α catalytic isoform, is frequently mutated in cancer, and highly specific inhibitors such as alpelisib are currently used in oncology and in PIK3CA-related [...] Read more.
Phosphatidylinositol-3-kinases (PI3Ks) are heterodimers of catalytic and regulatory subunits that regulate cell metabolism, activation, and survival. PI3K, particularly the p110α catalytic isoform, is frequently mutated in cancer, and highly specific inhibitors such as alpelisib are currently used in oncology and in PIK3CA-related overgrowth disorders. Given the relevance of macrophages in anti-tumor immunity, we examined the impact of alpelisib on murine monocytes’ intracellular signaling and on in vitro differentiation, polarization, and effector functions of macrophages. Real-time qPCR (RT-qPCR) showed comparable relative expression of PI3K isoforms (p110α, p110β, p110δ, p110γ and p85) in bone marrow monocytes and in macrophages differentiated with macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) or granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF). However, alpelisib increased p110α, p110β, and p85 relative gene expression (2–3-fold) during M-CSF-dependent differentiation. Functionally, alpelisib-treated M-CSF macrophages displayed enhanced interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) secretion and reduced IL-10 production after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) plus interferon gamma (IFN-γ) or LPS stimulation. In contrast, GM-CSF macrophages differentiated with alpelisib secreted lower levels of IL-6 and TNF-α and reduced inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and arginase-1 (Arg-1) gene expression. Additionally, cytokine profiles (IL-2, IL-6, IFN-γ and IL-10) were altered when alpelisib-treated macrophages were cocultured with CD4+ T cells under either antigen-specific or polyclonal activation conditions, indicating that the inhibitor modifies both differentiation and subsequent effector interactions of the macrophages. Thus, alpelisib induces lasting effects on macrophage differentiation and function, with potential implications in tumor-associated macrophages that develop under M-CSF or GM-CSF-rich cancer microenvironments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Shaping Macrophages Polarization as an Emerging Therapeutic Approach)
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17 pages, 2489 KB  
Review
Extracellular Vesicles in Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head: An Integrated Review of Experimental and Bioinformatic Evidence
by Elvira Immacolata Parrotta, Giorgia Lucia Benedetto, Giovanni Cuda, Umile Giuseppe Longo, Arianna Carnevale, Olimpio Galasso, Giorgio Gasparini and Michele Mercurio
J. Pers. Med. 2026, 16(4), 208; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm16040208 - 7 Apr 2026
Viewed by 676
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is a progressive condition characterized by bone necrosis, impaired vascularization, and immune dysregulation, often resulting in femoral head collapse. Effective strategies to halt disease progression are limited. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes and microvesicles, mediate intercellular [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is a progressive condition characterized by bone necrosis, impaired vascularization, and immune dysregulation, often resulting in femoral head collapse. Effective strategies to halt disease progression are limited. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes and microvesicles, mediate intercellular communication and influence osteogenesis, angiogenesis, and immune responses. This review summarizes current evidence on EVs in ONFH and their translational potential. Methods: A structured narrative review of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central databases was conducted, including in vitro, preclinical, and clinical studies on EVs in ONFH. Data on EV sources, molecular cargo, signaling pathways, functional effects, and translational implications were qualitatively synthesized. No pooled statistical analysis was performed because the extracted data were heterogeneous. Bioinformatic analyses such as Gene Ontology, KEGG enrichment, and protein–protein interaction networks were also summarized. Results: In vitro, EVs from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, endothelial cells, and M2 macrophages modulate osteogenic differentiation, angiogenesis, and inflammation. Preclinical studies demonstrate that EV administration reduces femoral head necrosis, improves trabecular structure, and enhances neovascularization. Clinical studies have identified EV-associated molecules (SAA1, C4A, RPS8) linked to disease stage and the risk of femoral head collapse. Bioinformatic analyses connect EV cargo to pathways regulating bone formation, vascularization, immunity, and metabolism. Conclusions: EVs appear to play key roles in ONFH pathogenesis and may represent promising candidates for diagnostic and therapeutic applications. However, current clinical evidence remains limited and requires validation in larger studies. Nonetheless, heterogeneity and limited clinical data require standardized, longitudinal studies to validate their translational relevance. Full article
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23 pages, 3008 KB  
Article
Combined Therapy with Pirfenidone, Metformin, and Mesenchymal Stem Cells Attenuates Bleomycin-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis in Rats
by Marwa A. Abd Elhamid, Eman T. Mehanna, Noha M. Mesbah, Dina M. Abo-Elmatty, Lubna Jamil and Mohamed M. Hafez
Biomedicines 2026, 14(3), 642; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14030642 - 12 Mar 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 884
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic, progressive lung disease marked by scarring and inflammation, leading to impaired respiratory function. This study aimed to investigate the combined therapeutic effects of pirfenidone (PFD), metformin (MET), and bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) on bleomycin [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic, progressive lung disease marked by scarring and inflammation, leading to impaired respiratory function. This study aimed to investigate the combined therapeutic effects of pirfenidone (PFD), metformin (MET), and bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) on bleomycin (BLM)-induced pulmonary fibrosis in rats. Methods: Forty-eight Western Albino rats were divided into six groups: normal control, BLM-positive control, and four treatment groups receiving PFD, MET, BM-MSCs, and their combination. Treatments were administered for four weeks starting on day 21 post-BLM instillation. Lung tissues were analyzed for oxidative stress markers, inflammatory cytokines, apoptotic markers, and fibrogenic gene expression. Histopathological changes were assessed using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Masson’s trichrome staining. Results: The combination therapy significantly reduced oxidative stress and inflammatory markers while enhancing antioxidant capacity. It decreased pro-apoptotic Bcl-2-associated X protein (BAX) and increased anti-apoptotic B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) levels. Additionally, anti-inflammatory interleukin-10 (IL-10) was elevated, while tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) levels were markedly lowered. Gene expression analysis showed a significant downregulation of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and collagen type 1 alpha 1 (Col1α1). Histologically, the combination treatment group exhibited minimal fibrosis and inflammation, closely resembling normal lung tissue. Conclusions: The combination of PFD, MET, and BM-MSCs offered superior therapeutic efficacy in treating BLM-induced pulmonary fibrosis compared to individual treatments. This multimodal approach effectively targets oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and fibrosis, suggesting strong potential for future clinical application. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular and Translational Medicine)
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29 pages, 8439 KB  
Article
Qingfei Tongluo Jiedu Formula Regulates M2 Macrophage Polarization via the Butyric Acid-GPR109A-MAPK Pathway for the Treatment of Mycoplasma pneumoniae Pneumonia
by Zhilin Liu, Qiuyue Fan, Ruohan Sun and Yonghong Jiang
Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(2), 212; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19020212 - 26 Jan 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1006
Abstract
Background: Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP) is a common community-acquired pneumonia in children. Increasing drug resistance highlights the need for more effective treatments with fewer side effects. The Qingfei Tongluo Jiedu formula (QTJD) has demonstrated clinical efficacy against MPP; however, its underlying mechanisms [...] Read more.
Background: Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP) is a common community-acquired pneumonia in children. Increasing drug resistance highlights the need for more effective treatments with fewer side effects. The Qingfei Tongluo Jiedu formula (QTJD) has demonstrated clinical efficacy against MPP; however, its underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study aimed to explore the mechanism of QTJD on MPP using network pharmacology and in vitro experiments. Methods: Network pharmacology was used to identify the active compounds and signaling pathways of QTJD in MPP. QTJD-containing serum was prepared, and primary mouse lung and bone marrow cells were isolated to examine the effects of QTJD on macrophage polarization through butyric acid. Cell viability assays, flow cytometry, and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction were performed. GPR109−/− cells were used to confirm the receptor mediating butyric acid’s action, and Western blotting was employed to assess the MAPK signaling pathway. Results: QTJD promoted macrophage polarization and alleviated the inflammatory response caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae. High-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization mass spectrometry combined with network pharmacology identified 20 active compounds. Protein-protein interaction analysis revealed 10 core target, including JUN and Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF), while enrichment analysis highlighted pathways such as Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase (MAPK) and Phosphoinositide 3-Kinase-Protein Kinase B. Experimental validation demonstrated that QTJD reduced M1 markers (CD86, CXCL10) by increasing butyrate levels (p < 0.01) and enhanced M2 markers (CD206, Arg-1, MRC-1), promoting M2 polarization. QTJD inhibited ERK1/2, p38, and JNK1/2 (p < 0.01). In GPR109A−/− mice macrophages, QTJD suppressed p38 and JNK1/2 (p < 0.01) but showed no effect on ERK1/2 (p > 0.05), confirming involvement of the butyrate-GPR109A-MAPK pathway. Conclusions: QTJD effectively alleviates MPP by regulating macrophage polarization through the butyrate-GPR109A-MAPK pathway. Future studies should explore how QTJD modulates pulmonary immunity through gut microbiota and butyrate production and elucidate its immunoregulatory mechanisms along the gut-lung axis using multi-omics approaches. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Network Pharmacology of Natural Products, 2nd Edition)
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10 pages, 223 KB  
Article
Transient Osteoporosis of the Hip: Clinical and Radiological Outcomes After Combined Pharmacologic and Biophysical Therapy
by Calogero Puma Pagliarello, Vito Pavone, Antonio Kory, Luciano Costarella, Antonio Buscema, Gianluca Testa and Corrado Ciatti
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(21), 7879; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14217879 - 6 Nov 2025
Viewed by 1616
Abstract
Introduction: Transient osteoporosis of the hip (TOH) is a rare, self-limiting disorder characterized by acute hip pain and reversible osteopenia. The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical outcomes following treatment with Neridronate, Clodronic Acid, Cholecalciferol, and pulsed electromagnetic field therapy [...] Read more.
Introduction: Transient osteoporosis of the hip (TOH) is a rare, self-limiting disorder characterized by acute hip pain and reversible osteopenia. The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical outcomes following treatment with Neridronate, Clodronic Acid, Cholecalciferol, and pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMF). Materials and Methods: A total of 45 patients presenting with non-traumatic hip pain were screened using a standardized diagnostic protocol. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) identified 8 patients (17.8%) with transient osteoporosis of the hip (TOH), who were subsequently enrolled in this analysis. Pain was evaluated using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Patients received a three-phase therapeutic protocol, including pharmacological therapy and PEMF. Clinical evaluations using the Harris Hip Score (HHS) were performed monthly, and follow-up MRI was conducted at the end of treatment. Results: We identified 8 cases of TOH (17.8%); the mean baseline HHS for these patients was 68.5 (range 51–83, SD 10.36). Pain reduction became evident within the first month of treatment. At the end of treatment, clinical improvement was observed in 7 patients, with mean HHS increasing to 88.0 (range 67–95, SD 8.84). Post-treatment MRI demonstrated complete resolution of bone marrow edema in all patients. One patient developed avascular necrosis despite therapy and required surgical intervention. Conclusions: TOH remains a controversial condition in terms of diagnosis and treatment. Early diagnosis and timely intervention are essential to progression to osteonecrosis. A combined therapeutic approach using bisphosphonates, vitamin D, and PEMF appears effective in reducing symptoms, promoting bone healing, and ensuring good patient compliance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Challenges in Orthopedic Trauma Surgery)
13 pages, 1920 KB  
Article
Protaetia brevitarsis seulensis Larvae Extract Attenuates Inflammatory Osteoclast Differentiation and Bone Loss
by Hyun Yang, Dong Ryun Gu, Hye Jin Yang, Wei Li, Younghoon Go, Ra-Yeong Choi, In-Woo Kim and Hyunil Ha
Nutrients 2025, 17(20), 3273; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17203273 - 17 Oct 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1059
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The larvae of Protaetia brevitarsis seulensis (PB), an edible insect, exhibit diverse bioactivities, but their effects on inflammatory bone loss remain unclear. We investigated whether a 70% ethanol extract of PB larvae (PBE) suppresses osteoclast differentiation and bone loss under inflammatory conditions. [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The larvae of Protaetia brevitarsis seulensis (PB), an edible insect, exhibit diverse bioactivities, but their effects on inflammatory bone loss remain unclear. We investigated whether a 70% ethanol extract of PB larvae (PBE) suppresses osteoclast differentiation and bone loss under inflammatory conditions. Methods: Osteoclast differentiation was assessed in co-cultures of mouse bone marrow cells and osteocytic cells stimulated with interleukin-1 (IL-1). Direct effects on osteoclast precursors were tested in bone marrow–derived macrophages exposed to receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) or tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Skeletal effects were evaluated in a mouse model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced bone loss. Results: PBE inhibited IL-1–induced osteoclast differentiation in co-culture, reduced osteocytic RANKL expression and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production, and dampened early IL-1 signaling. In osteoclast precursors, PBE directly suppressed osteoclastogenesis driven by RANKL or TNF-α. In vivo, PBE attenuated LPS-induced bone loss and blunted the associated increases in bone RANKL and PGE2. Conclusions: PBE limits inflammatory osteoclastogenesis by downregulating PGE2 and RANKL production in osteoclast-supporting cells and directly inhibiting osteoclast precursor differentiation, thereby attenuating LPS-induced bone loss. These findings identify PBE as a food-derived candidate for managing inflammation-associated bone loss and support further preclinical and nutritional intervention studies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bone-Health-Promoting Bioactive Nutrition)
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10 pages, 1038 KB  
Article
Cytokine Profiling of Exudates from Periapical Lesions and the Efficacy of CXCL10 as a Healing Marker
by Kazuhisa Ouhara, Yuri Taniguchi, Ruoqi Zhai, Katsuhiro Takeda, Ryousuke Fujimori, Naoya Kuwahara, Shoya Ueda, Yitong Hou, Nomi Honoka, Masaru Shimizu, Shoko Kono, Tomoyuki Iwata, Shinji Matsuda and Noriyoshi Mizuno
Pathogens 2025, 14(10), 1013; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens14101013 - 7 Oct 2025
Viewed by 1161
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate cytokine profiling in a periapical lesion to provide a rationale for future treatment strategies for periapical lesions. Thirteen samples of exudative fluid were collected from such a lesion directly through the root canal. Cytokine profiling was performed using [...] Read more.
This study aimed to evaluate cytokine profiling in a periapical lesion to provide a rationale for future treatment strategies for periapical lesions. Thirteen samples of exudative fluid were collected from such a lesion directly through the root canal. Cytokine profiling was performed using the Bio-Plex system. CXCL10 (C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 10, IP10) was found to be elevated in apical exudates of patients exhibiting favorable healing. To evaluate the role of CXCL10 in cell migration, a Transwell assay was conducted using bone marrow-derived mononuclear cells (BMMCs). Different types of cytokines were detected from the samples of periapical lesion at the initial visit. However, cytokine production varied across patient samples. Release of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12, IL-13, IL-17, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), interferon gamma (IFN-γ), monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1, macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-1α, MIP-1β, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α showed differential expression. Comparison of cytokine profiles indicated that cytokine production was variable before and after root canal treatment. In vitro, CXCL10 significantly improved BMMC migration in a dose-dependent manner, supporting clinical findings that elevated CXCL10 levels are associated with favorable healing in apical lesions. Although this study was limited by the small sample size and exploratory design, the cytokine profile of periapical lesions may be useful for assessing the condition of periapical lesions and modulating the immune response to bacterial infection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Bacterial Pathogens)
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14 pages, 2863 KB  
Article
HSPA1A Can Alleviate CFA-Induced Inflammatory Pain by Modulating Macrophages
by Wenjie Zhang, Xiaojun Xie, Xiaomin Xiong and Feiyu Chen
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(19), 9591; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26199591 - 1 Oct 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1439
Abstract
Current clinical approaches for managing inflammatory pain are frequently accompanied by adverse effects, significantly compromising patients’ quality of life. This study investigates the analgesic potential of Heat Shock Protein Family A Member 1A (HSPA1A) in alleviating Complete Freund’s Adjuvant (CFA)-induced inflammatory pain. The [...] Read more.
Current clinical approaches for managing inflammatory pain are frequently accompanied by adverse effects, significantly compromising patients’ quality of life. This study investigates the analgesic potential of Heat Shock Protein Family A Member 1A (HSPA1A) in alleviating Complete Freund’s Adjuvant (CFA)-induced inflammatory pain. The immunomodulatory mechanisms were elucidated through behavioral studies, flow cytometry, transcriptomics, proteomics, and cellular metabolic analyses. Findings indicate that HSPA1A mitigates CFA-induced mechanical allodynia, an effect independent of T or B lymphocytes and neutrophils but positively correlated with macrophage abundance. Transcriptomic RNA sequencing suggests involvement of inflammation-associated pathways. In vitro experiments demonstrate that HSPA1A suppresses the polarization of bone marrow-derived macrophages toward the pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype in an inflammatory model, with decreased mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines Interleukin-1β (Il1b) and Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF). Macrophage metabolism undergoes reprogramming, characterized by reduced glycolysis and enhanced oxidative phosphorylation. Proteomic pathway analysis reveals suppression of pro-inflammatory and glycolytic proteins, coupled with upregulation of anti-inflammatory and tricarboxylic acid cycle-related proteins. In summary, HSPA1A likely exerts its analgesic effects by inhibiting glycolysis in macrophages, providing novel insights into inflammatory pain management and highlighting potential therapeutic targets for future clinical drug development with substantial translational potential. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Immunology)
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19 pages, 2563 KB  
Review
The Intricate Process of Calcification in Granuloma Formation and the Complications Following M. tuberculosis Infection
by Nickolas Yedgarian, Jacqueline Agopian, Brandon Flaig, Fouad Hajjar, Arshavir Karapetyan, Kannan Murthy, Ani Patrikyan, Kirakos Tomas, Kevin Tumanyan, Mohammad J. Nasiri, Selvakumar Subbian and Vishwanath Venketaraman
Biomolecules 2025, 15(7), 1036; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom15071036 - 17 Jul 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 7465
Abstract
Mycobacterium tuberculosis—an acid-fast staining bacterium—is a serious global health challenge that can have both short-term and long-term complications. Although the immune response helps trap the infection, it can also cause necrosis and calcification, leading to lung tissue damage. Calcification is a known [...] Read more.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis—an acid-fast staining bacterium—is a serious global health challenge that can have both short-term and long-term complications. Although the immune response helps trap the infection, it can also cause necrosis and calcification, leading to lung tissue damage. Calcification is a known outcome of chronic granuloma evolution in TB. Multiple pathways contribute to fibrosis and calcification; some examples are IL-1β, TGF-β, and TNF-α. Current antifibrotic drugs, such as nintedanib and pirfenidone, are effective but may increase the risk of latent tuberculosis reactivation in certain patients. Experimental therapies such as artemisinin derivatives have shown promise in preclinical TB fibrosis models, while cell-based therapies like bone marrow-derived mononuclear cells are also under early investigation for dual antifibrotic and immunomodulatory effects. This literature review will explore recent studies on the pathogenesis of M. tuberculosis, the mechanisms underlying calcification in granuloma formation, and subsequent complications of the disease process. Full article
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14 pages, 2147 KB  
Article
Administration of Adipose-Derived Stem Cells Lowers the Initial Levels of IL6 and TNF-Alpha in the Rat Model of Necrotizing Enterocolitis
by Marek Wolski, Tomasz Ciesielski, Kasper Buczma, Łukasz Fus, Agnieszka Girstun, Joanna Trzcińska-Danielewicz and Agnieszka Cudnoch-Jędrzejewska
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(14), 6555; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26146555 - 8 Jul 2025
Viewed by 1248
Abstract
Research in the field of stem cells in necrotizing enterocolitis has primarily focused on the curative role of specific cells—mostly bone marrow and amniotic fluid stem cells. The impact of stem cells on reducing inflammatory cytokine levels in the necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) model [...] Read more.
Research in the field of stem cells in necrotizing enterocolitis has primarily focused on the curative role of specific cells—mostly bone marrow and amniotic fluid stem cells. The impact of stem cells on reducing inflammatory cytokine levels in the necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) model has been studied in accordance with the effects they pose on histopathology. Taking into consideration the possible paracrine mechanism of action of stem cells, our group hypothesized that lowering the initial levels of proinflammatory cytokines may be one of the mechanisms affecting the clinical outcome. A self-modified rat NEC model was used to show the effect of intraperitoneal administration of adipose derived stem cells on the initial levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alfa) in comparison with the interleukin levels in NEC animals and control animals without adipose–derived stem cells (ADSCs) injection. We showed a statistically significant difference in the levels of interleukins when comparing an ADSC injected group and an NEC group. This suggests that one of the mechanisms in which stem cells impact the clinical outcomes in NEC may be by alleviating the initial levels of proinflammatory cytokines. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Cytokines in Health and Diseases)
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24 pages, 4176 KB  
Article
Gemcitabine and Flurbiprofen Enhance Cytotoxic Effects on Cancer Cell Lines Mediated by Mesenchymal Stem Cells
by Agata Kawulok, Paulina Borzdziłowska, Magdalena Głowala-Kosińska, Wojciech Fidyk, Andrzej Smagur, Barbara Łasut-Szyszka, Agnieszka Gdowicz-Kłosok, Iwona Mitrus, Marcin Wilkiewicz, Agata Chwieduk, Daria Burdalska, Joanna Korfanty, Sebastian Giebel, Marcin Rojkiewicz, Andrzej Bak and Violetta Kozik
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(13), 6212; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26136212 - 27 Jun 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1604
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have recently shown great promise as potential anticancer drug delivery carriers. MSCs exhibit tropism to inflammatory sites, such as tumor beds, and resistance to chemotherapeutics. The aim of this study was to examine the efficacy of gemcitabine (GEM) conjugated [...] Read more.
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have recently shown great promise as potential anticancer drug delivery carriers. MSCs exhibit tropism to inflammatory sites, such as tumor beds, and resistance to chemotherapeutics. The aim of this study was to examine the efficacy of gemcitabine (GEM) conjugated with flurbiprofen (FLU) as a potential agent enhancing the GEM cytotoxic effect. Pancreatic cancer cell lines (PCCs), including PANC-1, AsPC-1, and BxPC-3, were studied meticulously. Moreover, the usefulness of bone-marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) treated with GEM and FLU, and the conditioned media from above these cells (CM) as elements supporting the in vitro action of GEM, inducing apoptosis, necrosis, and inhibiting the cell cycle, was tested. The results showed that CM-GEM exhibited higher cytotoxicity towards the selected PCCs compared to GEM alone. Furthermore, the obtained data revealed lower sensitivity of these cells to treatment, which promotes the utilization of BM-MSCs as potential drug carriers. Based on the presented findings, it seems that applying FLU in the antiproliferative effect of GEM might be regarded as an effective strategy in the therapy of pancreatic cancer, especially in the inhibition of proliferation and induction of cancer cell death. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Cancer)
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Article
Caveolin-1 Deficiency in Macrophages Alleviates Carbon Tetra-Chloride-Induced Acute Liver Injury in Mice
by Ruirui Li, Yixue Shu, Yulin Yan, Junyi Zhu, Zilu Cheng, Jie Zhang, Liming Zhu, Yanhua Qiao and Quan Sun
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(10), 4903; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26104903 - 20 May 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1573
Abstract
Bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMMs) exhibit dynamic behavior and functional capabilities in response to specific microenvironmental stimuli. Recent investigations have proved that BMMs play crucial roles in promoting necrotic lesion resolution. Despite substantial advancements in understanding their activation and interaction with injured livers, researchers [...] Read more.
Bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMMs) exhibit dynamic behavior and functional capabilities in response to specific microenvironmental stimuli. Recent investigations have proved that BMMs play crucial roles in promoting necrotic lesion resolution. Despite substantial advancements in understanding their activation and interaction with injured livers, researchers face challenges to develop effective treatments based on manipulating BMMs function. Caveolin-1 (Cav-1) is the major structural protein on the plasma membrane. We previously reported that Cav-1 knockout (KO) mice exhibited less functional damage and necrosis in carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver injury. We hypothesize that the activation and recruitment of BMMs are involved in the resolution of necrotic lesions in Cav-1 KO mice. Wild-type (WT) and Cav-1 KO mice were injected with CCl4 (10% v/v) to induce acute liver injury model. Blood samples and hepatic tissues were harvested for serum alanine transaminase (ALT) activity assessment, histopathological examination through hematoxylin–eosin (H&E) staining, and BMMs subpopulation analysis via flow cytometry. Then, primary BMMs were isolated and cultured to investigate the effect of Cav-1 on BMMs polarization, migration, and activation of STAT3 signal pathway. Validation of hepatic macrophage depletion was induced by administrating clodronate liposomes (CLs), and BMMs reconstitution was evaluated by EGFP labelled BMMs. Following this, hepatic macrophages were depleted by CLs, BMMs were isolated from Cav-1 KO, and WT mice were cultured and administrated to evaluate the protective role of Cav-1-deleted BMMs on the resolution of hepatocellular necrosis and apoptosis in acute liver injury. The BMMs ratio significantly increased from 2.12% (1D), 4.38% (1W), and 5.38% (2W) in oil control mice to 7.17%, 14.90%, and 19.30% in CCl4-treated mice (p < 0.01 or p < 0.001). Concurrently, Cav-1 positive BMMs exhibited a marked elevation from 6.41% at 1D to 24.90% by 2W (p = 0.0228). Cav-1 KO exerted protective effects by reducing serum ALT by 26% (p = 0.0265) and necrotic areas by 28% (p = 0.0220) and enhancing BMMs infiltration by 60% (p = 0.0059). In vitro, Cav-1 KO BMMs showed a decrease in CD206 fluorescence intensity (p < 0.001), a time-dependent upregulation of arginase-1 mRNA (p < 0.05 or p < 0.01), a 1.22-fold increase in phosphorylated STAT3 (p = 0.0036), and impaired wound healing from 12 to 24 h (p < 0.001). The macrophage-depleting action in livers by CL injection persists for a minimum of 48 h. Administrated EGFP+ BMMs emerged as the predominant population following CL injection for a duration of 48 h. Following clodronate liposome-mediated hepatic macrophage depletion, the adoptive transfer of Cav-1 KO BMMs demonstrated therapeutic efficacy in CCl4-induced acute liver injury. In CCl4-induced acute liver injury, the adoptive transfer of Cav-1 KO BMMs reduced necrosis by 12.8% (p = 0.0105), apoptosis by 25.2% (p = 0.0127), doubled macrophages infiltration (p = 0.0269), and suppressed CXCL9/10 mRNA expression (p = 0.0044 or p = 0.0385). BMMs play a key role in the resolution of liver necrotic lesions in CCl4-induced acute liver injury. Cav-1 depletion attenuates hepatocellular necrosis and apoptosis by accelerating BMMs recruitment and M2 polarization. Cav-1 in macrophages may represent a potential therapeutic target for acute liver injury. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Insights in Hepatic Disease and Hepatocellular Carcinoma)
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