Article
Surgery
Chao Xu, TianYu Liu, YunPeng Zhang, Yi Feng
Summary: In this study, bioinformatics analysis was conducted to identify mechanisms for more effective treatments of neuropathic pain. Seven hub genes and potential targeting miRNA related to the pathogenesis of neuropathic pain were identified, expanding understanding of the mechanism and facilitating treatment development.
ASIAN JOURNAL OF SURGERY
(2022)
Article
Endocrinology & Metabolism
Marc Leal-Julia, Jorge J. Vilches, Andrea Onieva, Sergi Verdes, Angela Sanchez, Miguel Chillon, Xavier Navarro, Assumpcio Bosch
Summary: This study characterized the proteome of neural tissues in a type 2 diabetes mouse model and identified differential protein expression profiles related to reduced glycolytic and TCA cycle metabolism, increased lipid catabolism, dysregulation of muscle-like proteins, altered cytoskeleton-related proteins, activation of inflammatory responses, and changes in glutathione metabolism and oxidative stress. These findings suggest that energy deficiency may play a key role in the neurodegeneration observed in diabetic neuropathy.
MOLECULAR METABOLISM
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Mingjun Jiang, Xuan Zhang, Xueli Wang, Feng Xu, Jian Zhang, Liren Li, Xiaohang Xie, Li Wang, Yin Yang, Ji-Tian Xu
Summary: The study indicates that miR-124-3p regulates the expression of Egr1 in neuropathic pain, suggesting that targeting miR-124-3p could be a potential therapeutic strategy for chronic pain.
JOURNAL OF NEUROCHEMISTRY
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Jia-wen Xu, Xu Xu, Yun Ling, Yan-chun Wang, Yu-jie Huang, Juan-zhen Yang, Jia-ying Wang, Xu Shen
Summary: Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a common complication of diabetes without cure. In this study, the therapeutic potential of vincamine (Vin), a GPR40 agonist, in ameliorating DPN-like pathology was evaluated in diabetic mice. The results showed that Vin administration improved neurological dysfunctions, blood flow velocities, blood perfusion areas, myelin sheath injury, and intraepidermal nerve fiber density impairment in DPN mice, suggesting that pharmacological activation of GPR40 could be a promising therapeutic strategy for DPN.
ACTA PHARMACOLOGICA SINICA
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Ruirui Lu, Katharina Metzner, Fangyuan Zhou, Cathrin Flauaus, Annika Balzulat, Patrick Engel, Jonas Petersen, Rebekka Ehinger, Anne Bausch, Peter Ruth, Robert Lukowski, Achim Schmidtko
Summary: The sodium-activated potassium channel Slack plays a role in sensory neurons and is involved in mediating sodium-activated potassium current (I-KNa) and modulating neuronal activity. Studies found that Slack activity is reduced in sensory neurons after peripheral nerve injury, contributing to neuropathic pain hypersensitivity, and that it is associated with ATP-sensitive P2X3 receptors. Experiments showed that Slack-mediated I-KNa can be bidirectionally modulated in response to P2X3 activation, suggesting a potential novel strategy for treating neuropathic pain.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2021)
Review
Cell Biology
Sipin Zhu, Xiaoyong Hu, Samuel Bennett, Yuliang Mai, Jiake Xu
Summary: TAFA4 is a member of the TAFA chemokine like ligand family and involved in the regulation of various biological processes, including chemotaxis and phagocytosis of macrophages. It is predominantly expressed in nociceptors and plays a role in pain perception. TAFA4 mediates the chemoattraction and inflammatory response of macrophages through binding to the receptor FPR1.
FRONTIERS IN CELL AND DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY
(2022)
Review
Environmental Sciences
Wolfgang Grisold, Valentina Alda Carozzi
Summary: Toxic neuropathies are caused by various substances through different mechanisms, with a wide range of toxic agents that can affect the nervous system in different ways. Clinically, the most common type is cumulative toxicities, presenting as axonal symmetric neuropathies.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Nea Korvenlaita, Lauri Louhivuori
Summary: Increasing evidence suggests that macrophages play an important role in peripheral nerve injury (PNI) and associated pain. Differences in in vivo models and methodologies may explain the variations between peripheral nerve macrophages and dorsal root ganglia (DRG) macrophages. Using single-nucleus transcriptomic analysis, this study compared the effects of sciatic nerve transection, spinal nerve transection, and nerve crush on DRG macrophage phenotypes. The findings demonstrate unique and time-dependent gene expression profiles of DRG macrophages in the different PNI models, suggesting a carefully orchestrated response of various DRG macrophage subtypes in PNI.
Article
Anesthesiology
Dongman Chao, Christina M. Mecca, Guoliang Yu, Ian Segel, Michael S. Gold, Quinn H. Hogan, Bin Pan
Summary: Dorsal root ganglion field stimulation can relieve neuropathic pain by blocking spontaneous activity in injured neurons, leading to reduced pain behavior and ongoing pain. The effects are more significant in injured neurons, affecting both pain behavior and ongoing pain.
Review
Cell Biology
Aidan McGinnis, Ru-Rong Ji
Summary: Preclinical studies have found that glial cells play a crucial role in the development and maintenance of neuropathic pain in conditions such as diabetes, chemotherapy, major surgeries, and virus infections. Satellite glial cells (SGCs) in the peripheral nervous system (PNS) and astrocytes in the central nervous system (CNS) exhibit similar characteristics and functions in the genesis of neuropathic pain. However, SGCs are not simply peripheral astrocytes and have unique roles and interactions. Recent findings also suggest that SGCs are enriched with proteins related to fatty acid metabolism, which may have implications for novel therapeutic approaches targeting glial cells.
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Lawrence M. Carey, Zhili Xu, Gabriela Rajic, Alexandros Makriyannis, Julian Romero, Cecilia Hillard, Ken Mackie, Andrea G. Hohmann
Summary: This study suggests that CB2 activation may alleviate HIV-associated antiretroviral neuropathy and identifies a previously unreported mechanism through which CB2 activation produces antinociceptive efficacy. The study also demonstrates that a CB2 agonist can reverse established morphine tolerance and shows that CB2 localized to peripheral sensory neurons mediates the opioid tolerance sparing efficacy of CB2 agonists.
PHARMACOLOGICAL RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Runan Yang, Zijing Li, Yuting Zou, Jingjian Yang, Lin Li, Xiumei Xu, Guenther Schmalzing, Hong Nie, Guilin Li, Shuangmei Liu, Shangdong Liang, Changshui Xu
Summary: The study reveals that gallic acid alleviates neuropathic pain in CCI rats by inhibiting the activation of the P2X7 receptor and subsequent signaling pathways, showing potential as a therapeutic agent for neuropathic pain.
FRONTIERS IN PHARMACOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Neurosciences
Kelsi N. Dodds, Melinda A. Kyloh, Lee Travis, Elizabeth A. H. Beckett, Nick J. Spencer
Summary: This study provides the first detailed description of spinal afferent nerve endings in the uterus of a vertebrate. Various morphological types of spinal afferent nerve endings were identified in different anatomical layers of the uterine wall. Compared to other visceral organs, the uterine spinal afferent endings displayed less morphological diversity, with few neurons in nodose ganglia innervating the uterus.
JOURNAL OF COMPARATIVE NEUROLOGY
(2021)
Article
Medicine, Research & Experimental
Ying Zhao, Qiang Wang, Chen Xie, Yuling Cai, Xue Chen, Yuhui Hou, Liu He, Jianping Li, Min Yao, Shuangxi Chen, Wutian Wu, Xiaojia Chen, An Hong
Summary: This study developed a novel low-molecular-weight peptide agonist CH02 targeting FGFR, which effectively promoted nerve regeneration, enhanced axon growth of sensory neurons, and robustly improved nerve regeneration and sensory-motor behavioral recovery in a rat spinal dorsal root injury model.
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Larissa de Clauser, Christin Kappert, Julia R. Sondermann, David Gomez-Varela, Sarah J. L. Flatters, Manuela Schmidt
Summary: Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a debilitating side-effect of cancer therapies. This study used quantitative proteome profiling and network analysis to explore the mechanistic basis of CIPN in a rat model. The researchers identified a differential protein signature associated with the development and maintenance of CIPN. Validation in an independent rat cohort confirmed the increase of beta-catenin (CTNNB1) at the pre-CIPN stage, and analysis of protein networks associated with beta-catenin highlighted potential druggable targets. This study provides unprecedented insights into the molecular basis of CIPN and suggests new avenues for developing therapeutic options.
FRONTIERS IN PHARMACOLOGY
(2022)
Review
Endocrinology & Metabolism
Nicoleta Alexandru, Anastasia Procopciuc, Alexandra Vilcu, Ioana Karla Comarita, Elisabeta Badila, Adriana Georgescu
Summary: Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are small anuclear vesicles surrounded by a lipid bilayer, released by various cell types to transfer biologically active molecules like microRNAs to adjacent or distant cells, impacting their phenotype and function. EVs are implicated in the risk and progression of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), but little is known about their involvement in prediabetes states and associated complications.
REVIEWS IN ENDOCRINE & METABOLIC DISORDERS
(2022)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Ioana Lambrescu, Alexandra Popa, Emilia Manole, Laura Cristina Ceafalan, Gisela Gaina
Summary: Muscular dystrophies, although rare, have a significant impact on people's health. Researchers are developing more effective therapeutic strategies, with droplet digital PCR being a promising tool for accurately measuring disease progression biomarkers and monitoring treatment effectiveness.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Alexandru Filippi, Alina Constantin, Nicoleta Alexandru, Cristina Ana Mocanu, Mihaela Loredana Vlad, Ioana Madalina Fenyo, Agneta Simionescu, Dan Teodor Simionescu, Ileana Manduteanu, Adriana Georgescu
Summary: The number and function of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are reduced in diabetes. Genetically modified EPCs can be a safe treatment option for dyslipidemia and diabetes, preserving aortic valve function.
Article
Cell Biology
Ioana Karla Comarita, Alexandra Vilcu, Alina Constantin, Anastasia Procopciuc, Florentina Safciuc, Nicoleta Alexandru, Emanuel Dragan, Miruna Nemecz, Alexandru Filippi, Leona Chitoiu, Mihaela Gherghiceanu, Adriana Georgescu
Summary: Stem cell-derived EV therapies, especially EVs (ADSCs), led to regression of structural and functional changes in the vascular wall and key orchestrator expression in atherosclerosis-induced endothelial dysfunction. Transfection of EVs with Smad2/3siRNA amplified the ability of EVs (ADSCs) or EVs (MSCs) to regress the inflammation-mediated atherosclerotic process.
FRONTIERS IN CELL AND DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY
(2022)
Meeting Abstract
Cardiac & Cardiovascular Systems
I. K. Comarita, A. Constantin, A. Vilcu, A. Procopciuc, F. Safciuc, N. Alexandru, E. Dragan, M. Nemecz, A. Filippi, A. Georgescu
CARDIOVASCULAR RESEARCH
(2022)
Meeting Abstract
Cardiac & Cardiovascular Systems
M. Nemecz, D. S. Stefan, A. Constantin, A. Procopciuc, K. Comarita, G. Tanko, A. Georgescu
CARDIOVASCULAR RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Immunology
Ana-Maria Pantazica, Mihaela-Olivia Dobrica, Catalin Lazar, Cristina Scurtu, Catalin Tucureanu, Iuliana Caras, Irina Ionescu, Adriana Costache, Adrian Onu, Jihong Liu Clarke, Crina Stavaru, Norica Branza-Nichita
Summary: Despite the availability of improved antiviral therapies, a curable treatment for Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains elusive. This study focuses on the development of a better HBV vaccine by combining the preS1 domain of the large envelope protein with the small envelope protein. The chimeric antigen was found to have enhanced immunogenicity and ability to activate humoral and cellular immune responses, resulting in the production of neutralizing antibodies against both wild-type and vaccine-escape HBV variants.
FRONTIERS IN IMMUNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Marius Andrei Olariu, Catalin Tucureanu, Tudor Alexandru Filip, Iuliana Caras, Aurora Salageanu, Valentin Vasile, Marioara Avram, Bianca Tincu, Ina Turcan
Summary: This study proposes a feasible approach for the rapid, sensitive, and label-free identification of cancerous cells based on dielectrophoretic manipulation and electrical characterization. The method demonstrates the ability to electrically differentiate cancer cells from healthy cells based on impedance spectra.
Review
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Emilia Manole, Gisela Gaina, Laura Cristina Ceafalan, Mihail Eugen Hinescu
Summary: In aged muscle, the division of satellite cells is impaired. It is important to understand the balance between muscle regeneration, muscle homeostasis, aging, and disease, and stimulating muscle regeneration in aging could be a therapeutic target. However, there is still a need to comprehend the complex mechanisms in satellite cells and their niche.
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Ana-Maria Pantazica, Andre van Eerde, Mihaela-Olivia Dobrica, Iuliana Caras, Irina Ionescu, Adriana Costache, Catalin Tucureanu, Hege Steen, Catalin Lazar, Inger Heldal, Sissel Haugslien, Adrian Onu, Crina Stavaru, Norica Branza-Nichita, Jihong Liu Clarke
Summary: In this study, a chimeric hepatitis B virus (HBV) S/L antigen was produced in glyco-engineered Nicotiana benthamiana plants. The antigen produced in plants lacking beta-1,2-xylosyltransferase and alpha-1,3-fucosyltransferase activities showed significantly enhanced immune response in mice, and efficiently neutralized both wild-type HBV and a vaccine escape mutant. This research validates the importance of using genetically modified tobacco plants as a host for plant production of glycoprotein vaccines.
PLANT BIOTECHNOLOGY JOURNAL
(2023)
Article
Medicine, Research & Experimental
Ramona Caragheorgheopol, Catalin Tucureanu, Veronica Lazar, Simin Aysel Florescu, Dragos Stefan Lazar, Iuliana Caras
Summary: The differential diagnosis of bacterial meningitis (BM) and viral meningitis (VM) is crucial for appropriate treatment and improved patient outcomes. The patterns of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines/chemokines in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) can be sensitive markers for distinguishing between BM and VM. Machine learning algorithms can effectively classify BM and VM based on CSF cytokine/chemokine patterns.
EXPERIMENTAL AND THERAPEUTIC MEDICINE
(2023)
Review
Polymer Science
Alexandru Scafa Udriste, Adelina-Gabriela Niculescu, Luminita Iliuta, Teodor Bajeu, Adriana Georgescu, Alexandru Mihai Grumezescu, Elisabeta Badila
Summary: Cardiovascular diseases are a major cause of illness and death globally, resulting in significant health and economic burden. The limited regeneration capacity of adult cardiac tissues and lack of therapeutic options are the main reasons for this phenomenon. Recent interdisciplinary research has focused on biomaterial-based approaches to repair and restore heart tissues, utilizing advancements in chemistry, biology, material science, medicine, and nanotechnology. This paper aims to present the advantages of these approaches, such as cardiac patches, injectable hydrogels, extracellular vesicles, and scaffolds, and reviews the latest developments in these fields.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Elisabeta Badila, Cristina Japie, Ana-Maria Vrabie, Adrian Badila, Adriana Georgescu
Summary: Cardiovascular disease and cancer remain significant causes of morbidity and mortality globally. The prevention and treatment of heart disease in cancer patients present ongoing challenges for improving their quality of life and survival. Limited progress has been made in early detection of cardiovascular disease in cancer patients, highlighting the importance of understanding the molecular mechanisms and disease-specific biomarkers in the communication between cancer and cardiovascular disease. Research on extracellular vesicles (EVs) as mediators of this cross talk is still in its early stages. Investigating EV-based biomarkers and therapies may provide insights into responsible mechanisms, early detection of cardiovascular damage, and new therapeutic approaches. The ultimate goal is to reduce the burden of cardiovascular diseases in oncological patients receiving anticancer drugs or radiotherapy.
Article
Immunology
Vlad-Constantin Tofan, Andreea-Laura Ermeneanu, Iuliana Caras, Alina Lenghel, Irina-Elena Ionescu, Catalin Tucureanu, Claudiu Gal, Crina-Georgeta Stavaru, Adrian Onu
Summary: We developed a model influenza hemagglutinin antigen that can protect mice from viral challenge. By using bacterial expression and refolding techniques, we obtained high levels of folded protein, which showed potential for vaccine development.
Article
Polymer Science
Andrei-Mihai Dumitrascu, Iuliana Caras, Catalin Tucureanu, Andreea-Laura Ermeneanu, Vlad-Constantin Tofan
Summary: This study presents a method of immobilizing proteins using alginate hydrogels, which can effectively prevent protein denaturation and have low cytotoxicity. The hydrogels can bind with polyhistidine-tagged proteins through interaction with crosslinking cations.
Article
Cell Biology
Abril Alondra Barrientos-Bonilla, Paola Belem Pensado-Guevara, Abraham Puga-Olguin, Rasajna Nadella, Aurora del Carmen Sanchez-Garcia, Laura Mireya Zavala-Flores, Arnulfo Villanueva-Olivo, Iliana Tamara Cibrian-Llanderal, Maria de Jesus Rovirosa-Hernandez, Daniel Hernandez-Baltazar
Summary: This study evaluated the impact of BrdU on liver function and found that multiple injections of BrdU did not induce hepatocellular damage.
Article
Cell Biology
Pan Zhang, Qun Feng, Wenxiao Chen, Xizhuang Bai
Summary: It was found that catalpol antagonizes LPS-mediated inflammation and suppressive osteoblast differentiation by inhibiting inflammation and promoting osteoblast differentiation. This finding contributes to a better understanding of the pathogenesis of osteoporosis.