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Objective:To evaluate the role of small ubiquitin-associated modifier (SUMO) E3 ligase (PIAS)-regulated SUMOylation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) in the endogenous protective mechanism against endotoxin-induced acute lung injury (ALI) in mice.Methods:Experiment Ⅰ Twenty-four clean-grade wild type male C57BL/6 mice, aged 6-8 weeks, weighing 18-22 g, were divided into 4 groups ( n=6 each) using a random number table method: control group (C group), ALI group, ALI+ PPARγ inducer TZD group (ALI+ T group) and ALI+ TZD+ SUMOylation inhibitor anacardic acid group (ALI+ T+ A group). Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) 15 mg/kg was injected into the tail vein to develop the ALI model. In ALI+ T+ A group, anacardic acid 5 mg/kg was intraperitoneally injected at 1 h before LPS administration. In ALI+ T group and ALI+ T+ A group, TZD 50 mg/kg was intraperitoneally injected at 30 min before LPS administration. The mice were sacrificed at 12 h after LPS administration, and the lung tissues were obtained to examine the pathological changes which were scored and to determine the wet/dry (W/D) weight ratio, and expression of PIAS1, PIAS2, PIAS3 and PIASy protein and mRNA (by Western blot or polymerase chain reaction). Experiment Ⅱ Mouse alveolar macrophages (MH-S cells) were cultured in vitro and divided into 4 groups ( n=5 each) using a random number table method: control group (C group), LPS group, LPS+ PIAS2 siRNA group (L+ P group) and LPS+ Con siRNA group (L+ C group). Cells were routinely cultured in group C. Cells were stimulated with 10 μg/ml LPS to develop the model of endotoxin challenge. PIAS2 siRNA 50 nmol/L and Con siRNA 50 nmol/L were transfected at 48 h before LPS was added in L+ P group and L+ C group, respectively. The cells were collected at 24 h of incubation with LPS to determine the cell viability, levels of M1 and M2 alveolar macrophages (by flow cytometry), expression of PIAS2 and PPARγ (by Western blot), co-expression of PPARγ-SUMO1 (by immunoprecipitation) and expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) mRNA (by polymerase chain reaction). The ratio of M1/M2 was calculated. Results:Experiment Ⅰ Compared with C group, the lung injury scores and W/D ratio were significantly increased, and the expression of PIAS2 protein and mRNA was up-regulated in the other three groups ( P<0.05). Compared with ALI group, the lung injury scores and W/D ratio were significantly decreased, and the expression of PIAS2 protein and mRNA was up-regulated in ALI+ T group and ALI+ T+ A group ( P<0.05). Compared with ALI+ T group, the lung injury scores and W/D ratio were significantly increased, and the expression of PIAS2 protein and mRNA was down-regulated in ALI+ T+ A group ( P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the expression of PIAS1, PIAS3 and PIASy protein and mRNA in lung tissues among the four groups ( P>0.05). Experiment Ⅱ Compared with C group, the cell viability was significantly decreased, the expression of PPARγ and co-expression of PPARγ-SUMO1 was up-regulated, the levels of M1 and M2 macrophages and M1/M2 ratio were increased, the expression of TNF-α mRNA was up-regulated, and the expression of IL-10 mRNA was down-regulated in the other three groups, and PIAS2 expression was significantly up-regulated in L group and L+ C group ( P<0.05). Compared with L group, the cell viability was significantly decreased, the expression of PIAS2 and PPARγ and PPARγ-SUMO1 co-expression were down-regulated, the M1 macrophage level and M1/M2 ratio were increased, TNF-α mRNA expression was up-regulated, and the expression of IL-10 mRNA was down-regulated in L+ P group ( P<0.05), and no significant change was found in the parameters mentioned above in L+ C group ( P>0.05). Compared with L+ C group, the cell viability was significantly decreased, the expression of PIAS2 and PPARγ and co-expression of PPARγ-SUMO1 were down-regulated, the level of M1 alveolar macrophages and M1/M2 ratio were increased, the expression of TNF-α mRNA was down-regulated, and the expression of IL-10 mRNA was up-regulated in L+ P group ( P<0.05). Conclusions:PIAS2-regulated SUMOylation of PPARγ is the endogenous protective mechanism against endotoxin-induced ALI in mice, which may be related to inhibition of macrophage polarization into M1 type and alleviation of inflammatory responses.
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Objective:To investigate the effect of electroacupuncture on calcium homeostasis in hippocampal neurons of mice with sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE).Methods:Twenty-four healthy male C57BL/6J mice, weighing 18-22 g, were divided into 4 groups ( n=6 each) using a random number table method: sham operation group (Sham group), SAE group, SAE plus electroacupuncture group (SAE+ EA group), and SAE plus sham electroacupuncture group (SAE+ SEA group). The virus carrying calcium ion (Ca 2+ ) fluorescent probes was injected and then an optical fiber was implanted into the hippocampal CA1 area to record the fluorescence signals of Ca 2+ . SAE was induced by cecal ligation and puncture in anesthetized mice at 3 weeks after administration. Starting from 3 days before surgery, Baihui and bilateral Quchi and bilateral Zusanli acupoints were stimulated for 30 min per day for 7 consecutive days in SAE+ EA group. In SAE+ SEA group, electroacupuncture was performed at the points 0.2 mm lateral to the corresponding acupoints without electrical stimulation. Open field tests were conducted at 5 days after surgery to record the number of rearing and changes in related Ca 2+ signals in hippocampal CA1 neurons. Novel object recognition tests were conducted at 6-7 days after surgery to record the recognition time and changes in related Ca 2+ signals in hippocampal CA1 neurons. Mice were sacrificed after the end of behavioral testing on 7 days after surgery, and brain tissues ipsilateral to the optical fiber implant were obtained and the fluorescence intensity of Ca 2+ in the hippocampal CA1 neurons was acquired using a fluorescent microscope. Results:Compared with Sham group, the number of rearing and amplitudes of related Ca 2+ signals in hippocampal CA1 neurons while rearing were significantly decreased in SAE group and SAE+ SEA group ( P<0.05), and no statistically significant changes were found in the parameters mentioned above in SAE+ EA group ( P>0.05), and the recognition index and amplitudes of related Ca 2+ signals while recognizing were significantly deceased, and the fluorescence intensity of Ca 2+ in hippocampal CA1 neurons was increased in SAE, SAE+ EA and SAE+ SEA groups ( P<0.05). Compared with SAE group and SAE+ SEA group, the number of rearing and amplitudes of related Ca 2+ signals in hippocampal CA1 neurons while rearing were significantly increased, the recognition index and amplitudes of related Ca 2+ signals in hippocampal CA1 neurons while recognizing were increased, and the fluorescence intensity of Ca 2+ in hippocampal CA1 neurons was decreased in SAE+ EA group ( P<0.05). There were no statistically significant differences in the parameters mentioned above between SAE group and SAE+ SEA group ( P>0.05). Conclusions:The mechanism by which electroacupuncture alleviates SAE may be related to regulation of Ca 2+ homeostasis in hippocampal neurons of mice.
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Objective:To evaluate the role of silent information regulator sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) in mitochondrial dysfunction in mice with lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced brain injury.Methods:Eighty clean-grade male C57BL/6 mice, aged 6-8 weeks, were divided into 4 groups ( n=20 each) by the random number table method: control group (group C), LPS-induced brain injury group (LPS group), LPS-induced brain injury plus SIRT1 inhibitor EX527 group (LPS+ E group), and LPS-induced brain injury plus SIRT1 agonist SRT1720 group (LPS+ S group). Brain injury was induced by intravenous injection of LPS 10 mg/kg. EX527 10 mg/kg was intraperitoneally injected at 72 h before LPS injection in group LPS+ E, and the equal volume of dimethyl sulfoxide was intraperitoneally injected instead in the other three groups. SRT1720 100 mg/kg was intraperitoneally injected at 30 min before LPS injection in group LPS+ S, and the equal volume of dimethyl sulfoxide was intraperitoneally injected instead in the other three groups. The novel object recognition test was performed at 24 h after LPS injection, then the mice were sacrificed, and hippocampal tissues were harvested for determination of the number of the normal neurons in the hippocampal CA1 area, ATP content and activities of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes Ⅰ, Ⅱ, Ⅲ and Ⅳ (by spectrophotometry), and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) (by Jc-1 staining) and for microscopic examination of pathological changes (by Nissl staining) and ultrastructure of neuronal mitochondria (with a transmission electron microscope). Results:Compared with group C, the preference index in novel object recognition, normal neuron count, activities of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes Ⅰ, Ⅱ, Ⅲ and Ⅳ, MMP and ATP content were significantly decreased ( P<0.05), damage to hippocampal neurons was found, mitochondrial swelling was observed and cristae structure ruptured in LPS, LPS+ S and LPS+ E groups. Compared with group LPS, the preference index in novel object recognition, activities of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes, MMP and ATP content were significantly decreased ( P<0.05), neuronal damage was aggravated, the mitochondrial swelling and fracture of crista structure were accentuated in group LPS+ E; the preference index in novel object recognition, activities of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes, MMP and ATP content were significantly increased ( P<0.05), neuronal damage was alleviated, and the mitochondrial swelling and fracture of crista structure were ameliorated in group LPS+ S. Conclusions:Activation of SIRT1 can improve mitochondrial dysfunction and alleviate LPS-induced brain injury in mice.
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Objective:To evaluate the role of nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) in sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE) and the relationship with pyroptosis in microglia of mice.Methods:Twenty-four SPF healthy male C57BL/6J mice, aged 6-8 weeks, weighing 18-22 g, were divided into 3 groups ( n=6 each) using a random number table method: sham operation group (Sham group), SAE group and SAE plus an NLRP3 inhibitor MCC950 group (SAE+ MCC950 group). The mouse model of SAE was prepared by cecal ligation and puncture after anesthesia. MCC950 20 mg/kg was intraperitoneally injected at 1 h after developing the model in SAE+ MCC950 group, and the equal volume of normal saline was given instead in the other groups. Open field tests were conducted at 1 day after developing the model to record the number of rearing and time spent in the central area. Novel object recognition tests were conducted at 2-3 days after developing the model to record the recognition index. After the behavioral experiment on 3 day after developing the model, mice were sacrificed and hippocampal tissues were collected for determination of the expression of NLRP3 (by Western blot), count of cells co-expressing NLRP3 and microglia-specific ionized calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1 (Iba-1) (by immunofluorescence), activity of caspase-1, and contents of interleukin-1beta(IL-1β) and IL-18 (by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay). Results:Compared with Sham group, the number of rearing was significantly reduced, the time spent in the central area was shortened, the recognition index was decreased, the expression of NLRP3 was up-regulated, the count of NLRP3 + -Iba-1 + cells was increased, and the activity of caspase-1 and contents of IL-1β and IL-18 were increased in SAE and SAE+ MCC950 groups ( P<0.05). Compared with SAE group, the number of rearing was significantly increased, the time spent in the central area was prolonged, the recognition index was increased, the expression of NLRP3 was down-regulated, the count of NLRP3 + -Iba-1 + cells was decreased, and the activity of caspase-1 and contents of IL-1β and IL-18 were decreased in SAE+ MCC950 group ( P<0.05). Conclusions:NLRP3 is involved in the development of SAE, which may be related to the mediation in microglial pyroptosis in mice.
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Objective:To observe the clinical effect of electroacupuncture combined with Qingyi Xianxiong Decoction on the treatment of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) caused by severe acute pancreatitis (SAP).Methods:From February 2021 to April 2022, 120 patients with ARDS caused by SAP who were admitted to the department of critical care medicine of Tianjin Nankai Hospital and whose syndrome differentiation belonged to the syndrome of knot chest were selected. They were randomly divided into pure traditional Chinese medicine group and acupuncture medicine group, with 60 cases in each group. The pure traditional Chinese medicine group was received Qingyi Xianxiong Decoction on the basis of conventional western medicine treatment, and the acupuncture medicine group was received electric acupuncture treatment on the basis of the pure traditional Chinese medicine group. The two groups continued to be treated for 7 days. The primary outcome was the ventilator-free days within 28 days after admission to the intensive care unit (ICU), and the secondary outcome measures were mechanical ventilation time, the length of ICU stay, total lenth of hospital stay, time of intra-abdominal pressure recovery, scores of organ function, oxygenation index (PaO 2/FiO 2), serum inflammatory factors, blood amylase, urine amylase, etc. Results:Compared with the pure traditional Chinese medicine group, the ventilator-free days in the acupuncture medicine group within 28 days after admission to the ICU were significantly longer [day: 22.10±2.29 vs. 20.97±2.31, P < 0.05, odds ratio ( OR) = 1.24, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) was 1.053-1.460, P < 0.05]. The time of mechanical ventilation, the length of ICU stay, total length of hospital stay, and recovery time of intra-abdominal pressure were significantly shortened [mechanical ventilation time (days): 5.90±2.29 vs. 7.03±2.31, the length of ICU stay (days): 8.07±1.89 vs. 12.08±2.23, total length of hospital stay (days): 19.55±6.82 vs. 22.28±5.19, recovery time of intra-abdominal pressure (days): 6.05±1.81 vs. 8.45±1.76, all P < 0.05]. The Murray score and bedside index for severity in acute pancreatitis (BISAP) score of the two groups after 7 days of treatment were significantly lower than those before treatment, while PaO 2/FiO 2 was significantly higher than those before treatment, and the Murray score of the acupuncture medicine group after 7 days of treatment was significantly lower than that of the pure traditional Chinese medicine group [score: 0.50 (0.33, 0.75) vs. 1.00 (1.00, 1.33), P < 0.05], PaO 2/FiO 2 was significantly higher than that in the pure traditional Chinese medicine group [mmHg (1 mmHg ≈ 0.133 kPa): 390.75±27.73 vs. 330.02±42.34, P < 0.05]. With the prolongation of treatment time, the levels of inflammatory factors such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), serum amylase and urine amylase in both groups after treatment continued to decrease, and the levels of the inflammatory factors in the acupuncture medicine group after 7 days of treatment were significantly lower than those in the pure traditional Chinese medicine group [TNF-α (ng/L): 38.20±10.00 vs. 45.35±5.09, IL-6 (ng/L): 0.95±0.44 vs. 7.42±1.39, CRP (mg/L): 8.55±2.79 vs. 36.20±13.97, all P < 0.05]. Subgroup analysis showed that biliary system disease was a risk factor for the duration of mechanical ventilation ≥ 7 days in the treatment of ARDS with acupuncture and medicine ( OR = 2.728, 95% CI was 1.293-5.754). Conclusion:Compared with the pure traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture combined can better reduce the clinical symptoms of patients with ARDS caused by SAP, promote the recovery of patients, and reduce systemic inflammatory reaction, which is worthy of clinical promotion.
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Objective:To evaluate the relationship between heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) during alveolar macrophage polarization in a mouse model of endotoxin-induced acute lung injury (ALI).Methods:Thirty clean-grade male C57BL/6 mice (24 wide-type mice and 6 HO-1 knockout mice), aged 6-8 weeks, weighing 18-22 g, were studied.Wide-type mice were divided into 4 groups ( n=6 each) using a random number table method: control group (C group), ALI group, ALI+ HO-1 agonist hemin group (ALI+ H group), and ALI+ hemin+ PPARγ antagonist T0070907 group (ALI+ H+ T group).HO-1 knockout mice in which the ALI model was developed served as ALI+ HO-1 -/- group.ALI model was developed by injecting lipopolysaccharide (LPS) 15 mg/kg via the tail vein in anesthetized animals.T0070907 1.5 mg/kg was intraperitoneally injected at 1 h before LPS administration in ALI+ H+ T group, and hemin 50 mg/kg was intraperitoneally injected at 30 min before LPS administration in ALI+ H group and ALI+ H+ T group.Mice were sacrificed at 12 h after LPS administration, and lung tissues were obtained to measure the wet to dry weight ratio (W/D ratio), to observe pathological changes which were scored, and to determine the F4/80+ /CD86+ labeled M1 alveolar macrophages and the F4/80+ /CD206+ labeled M2 alveolar macrophages (by flow cytometry), contents of M1 macrophage-related genes inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and M2 macrophage-related genes Arginase-1 (Arg-1) (by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay), and the expression of HO-1 and PPARγ (by Western blot). Results:Compared with C group, the lung injury score, W/D ratio, levels of CD86 and CD206, and contents of iNOS and Arg-1 were significantly increased, and PPARγ expression was up-regulated in the other four groups ( P<0.05), and HO-1 protein expression was up-regulated in ALI, ALI+ H and ALI+ H+ T groups ( P<0.05).Compared with ALI group, the lung injury score, W/D ratio, and levels of CD86 and iNOS were significantly increased, the levels of CD206 and Arg-1 were decreased, and the expression of HO-1 and PPARγ was down-regulated in ALI+ HO-1 -/- group, the lung injury score, W/D ratio and levels of CD86 and iNOS were significantly decreased, the levels of CD206 and Arg-1 were increased, and the expression of HO-1 and PPARγ was up-regulated in ALI+ H group ( P<0.05), and no significant change was found in the parameters mentioned above in ALI+ H+ T group ( P>0.05).Compared with ALI+ H group, the lung injury score, W/D ratio and levels of CD86 and iNOS were significantly increased, the levels of CD206 and Arg-1 were decreased, the expression of PPARγ was down-regulated ( P<0.05), and no significant change was found in the expression of HO-1 in ALI+ H+ T group ( P>0.05). Conclusions:HO-1 can up-regulate the expression of PPARγ, inhibit the polarization of alveolar macrophages toward M1 phenotype and promote the polarization toward M2 phenotype, thus playing an endogenous protective role in endotoxin-induced ALI in mice.
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Objective:To evaluate the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on Golgi apparatus stress in the rats with endotoxin-induced acute lung injury (ALI).Methods:Twenty clean-grade male Sprague-Dawley rats, aged 2 months, weighing 160-185 g, were divided into 4 groups ( n=5 each) according to a random number table method: control group (C group), endotoxin group (LPS group), EA plus endotoxin group (EA+ LPS group), and sham EA plus endotoxin group (SEA+ LPS group).The model of endotoxin-induced ALI was developed by intravenous injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) 5 mg/kg in anesthetized animals.Bilateral Zusanli (ST36) and Neiguan (PC6) acupoints were stimulated with an electric stimulator for 30 min once a day at 1-4 days before and during model preparation in group EA+ LPS.In group SEA+ LPS, acupuncture needles were inserted to the surface of ST36 and PC6 acupoints with no current stimulation, and the other parameters were the same as those previously described in group EA+ LPS.Blood samples were collected from the abdominal aorta at 6 h after development of the model for measurement of concentrations of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in serum by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.The animals were sacrificed and lungs were removed for microscopic examination of the pathological changes of lung tissues (with a light microscope) and morphological changes of Golgi apparatus (with a transmission electron microscope) and for determination of wet to dry lung weight (W/D) ratio, cell apoptosis index (by TUNEL), activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) (by WST-1 method), content of malondialdehyde (MDA) (by TBA method), and expression of Golgi matrix protein 130 (GM130), Golgin-84 and Golgi phosphoprotein 3 (GOLPH3) protein and mRNA in lung tissues (by Western blot or real-time polymerase chain reaction). Results:Compared with group C, the lung injury score, W/D ratio, cell apoptosis index, serum IL-6 and TNF-α concentrations and MDA content were significantly increased, SOD activity was decreased, the expression of GM130 and Golgin-84 protein and mRNA was down-regulated, the expression of GOLPH3 protein and mRNA was up-regulated ( P<0.05), and Golgi apparatus was swollen and vacuolated in the other three groups.Compared with group LPS, lung injury score, W/D ratio, cell apoptosis index, serum IL-6 and TNF-α concentrations and MDA content were significantly decreased, SOD activity was increased, the expression of GM130 and Golgin-84 protein and mRNA was up-regulated, the expression of GOLPH3 protein and mRNA was down-regulated ( P<0.05), and swelling and vacuolization of Golgi apparatus were reduced in group EA+ LPS, and no significant change was found in the parameters mentioned above in group SEA+ LPS ( P>0.05). Conclusions:The mechanism by which EA reduces endotoxin-induced ALI may be related to inhibition of Golgi apparatus stress in lung tissues of rats.
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Objective:To evaluate the relationship between silent information regulator 2 homologue 3 (SIRT3) and mitochondrial function in mice with endotoxin-induced lung injury.Methods:Twenty clean-grade healthy adult male wild C57BL/6 (SIRT3 + /+ ) mice, 20 SIRT3 knockout (SIRT3 -/-) mice, weighing 20-25 g, aged 6-8 weeks, were studied.SIRT3 + /+ mice and SIRT3 -/- mice were divided into 4 groups ( n=5 each) according to the random number table method: blank control group (group C, group SIRT3 -/-C), endotoxin-induced lung injury group (group L, group SIRT3 -/-L), endotoxin-induced lung injury plus resveratrol group (group L+ R, group SIRT3 -/-L+ R), and resveratrol group (group R, group SIRT3 -/-R). Resveratrol 15 mg/kg was intraperitoneally injected once a day for 7 consecutive days in L+ R, R, SIRT3 -/-L+ R and SIRT3 -/-R groups, while the equal volume of normal saline was injected in the rest groups.Lipopolysaccharid 15 mg/kg was injected via the tail vein to develop a mouse model of endotoxin-induced lung injury at 30 min after resveratrol injection on 7th day, in L+ R and SIRT3 -/-L+ R groups and at the corresponding time points in L and SIRT3 -/-L groups, while the equal volume of normal saline was injected in the other groups.Blood samples were collected from the orbital venous plexus at 12 h after injection of normal saline or lipopolysaccharid for determination of serum total oxidation state (TOS) and total antioxidant state (TAS) levels by the xylenol orange method and ABTS colorimetric method, and the oxidative stress index (OSI) was calculated.After the mice were sacrificed, the lung tissues were taken for microscopic examination of the pathological changes which were scored and for determination of the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) (by JC-1 method), cellular oxygen consumption rate (OCR) (by the specific fluorescent probe method), and expression of SIRT3 (by Western blot). Results:Compared with group C or group SIRT3 -/-C, the lung injury score, serum TOS concentration and OSI were significantly increased, TAS concentration, MMP and OCR were decreased, and SIRT3 expression was down-regulated in L, L+ R, SIRT3 -/-L and SIRT3 -/-L+ R groups ( P<0.05). Compared with group L, the lung injury score, serum TOS concentration and OSI were significantly decreased, TAS concentration, MMP and OCR were increased, and SIRT3 expression was up-regulated in group L+ R, and lung injury score, serum TOS concentration and OSI were significantly increased, TAS concentration, MMP and OCR were decreased, and SIRT3 expression was down-regulated in group SIRT3 -/-L ( P<0.05). Compared with group L+ R, the lung injury score, serum TOS concentration and OSI were significantly increased, the TAS concentration, MMP and OCR were decreased, and the expression of SIRT3 was down-regulated in group SIRT3 -/- L+ R ( P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the indicators mentioned above between group SIRT3 -/-L+ R and group SIRT3 -/-L ( P>0.05). Conclusions:Down-regulation of SIRT3 expression can lead to impaired mitochondrial function, which is involved in the pathophysiological mechanism of endotoxin-induced lung injury.
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Objective:To evaluate the effect of transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS) on mitochondrial quality control during endotoxin-induced acute lung injury (ALI) in mice.Methods:Twenty-four clean-grade healthy male C57BL/6J mice, aged 4-6 weeks, weighing 15-20 g, were divided into 4 groups ( n=6 each) according to the random number table method: control group (group C), endotoxin-induced ALI group (group L-ALI), endotoxin-induced ALI plus acupoint electroacupuncture group (group L-ALI+ EA), and endotoxin-induced ALI plus non-acupoint electroacupuncture group (group L-ALI+ SEA). Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) 15 mg/kg was injected via the caudal vein to develop the model of endotoxin-induced ALI in anesthetized mice.In group L-ALI+ EA, at 5 days before LPS injection, bilateral Zusanli and Feishu acupoints were stimulated with an electric stimulator for 30 min each time at a voltage of 1-2 mA and a frequency of 2/15 Hz until the end of the experiment.In group L-ALI+ SEA, stimulation was performed at the points 0.5 cm lateral to the acupoints of bilateral Zusanli and Feishu non-meridian and non-acupoint sites using the shallow puncture method, and the other treatment methods were the same as those previously described in group EA.Group C received no treatment.The mice were sacrificed by euthanasia at 12 h after LPS administration, and lung tissues were obtained for microscopic examination of the pathological changes (with a light microscope) and structure and morphology of mitochondria (with a transmission electron microscope) and for determination of the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and contents of glutathione (GSH) and glutathione oxidized (GSSG). The GSH/GSSG ratio was calculated.The expression of mitochondrial fusion proteins mitofusin 1 (Mfn1), Mfn2, optic atrophy1 (OPA1), dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1), fission protein 1 (Fis1), peroxisome-proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator-1α (PGC-1α), nuclear respiratory factor-1 (NRF1), NRF2, PTEN-induced putative protein kinase 1 (PINK1) and the E3 ubiquitin ligase (Parkin) was determined by Western blot. Results:Compared with group C, the level of ROS and contents of GSSG and mtDNA were significantly increased, GSH content and GSH/GSSG ratio were decreased, the expression of Mfn1, Mfn2, OPA1, NRF1, NRF2 and PGC-1α was down-regulated, and the expression of Drp1, Fis1, PINK1 and Parkin was up-regulated in L-ALI, L-ALI+ EA and L-ALI+ SEA groups ( P<0.05). Compared with group L-ALI, the level of ROS and contents of GSSG and mtDNA were significantly decreased, GSH content and GSH/GSSG ratio were increased, the expression of Mfn1, Mfn2, OPA1, NRF1, NRF2 and PGC-1α was up-regulated, and the expression of Drp1, Fis1, PINK1 and Parkin was down-regulated in group L-ALI+ EA ( P<0.05). Compared with group L-ALI+ EA, the level of ROS and contents of GSSG and mtDNA were significantly increased, GSH content and GSH/GSSG ratio were decreased, the expression of Mfn1, Mfn2, OPA1, NRF1, NRF2 and PGC-1α was down-regulated, and the expression of Drp1, Fis1, PINK1 and Parkin was up-regulated in group L-ALI+ SEA ( P<0.05). Conclusions:TEAS can reduce endotoxin-induced ALI probably through regulating mitochondrial quality control in mice.
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Objective:To evaluate the role of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) in endotoxin-induced acute lung injury (ALI) and the relationship with the regulation of mitochondrial quality control in mice.Methods:Clean-grade healthy male adult C57BL/6 mice, aged 6-8 weeks, weighing 20-25 g, were selected.HO-1 inducible gene knockout mice (HO-1 -/-) were prepared based on CRISPER/Cas9-mediated EGE system, and HO-1 gene overexpression mice (HO-1 + /+ ) were prepared by transfection of HO-1 overexpressed adenovirus vector.The mice were divided into 2 groups ( n=6 each) using a random number table method: control group (group WT, group HO-1 -/-, group HO-1 + /+ ) and endotoxin-induced ALI group (group ALI, group HO-1 -/-+ ALI, group HO-1 + /+ + ALI). Lipopolysaccharide 15 mg/kg was injected through the tail vein to develop the model of endotoxin-induced ALI, and the equal volume of normal saline was given instead in each control group.The mice were sacrificed by bloodletting at 12 h after lipopolysaccharide or normal saline administration.The lung tissues were harvested for microscopic examination of the pathological changes which were scored, for determination of GSH and GSSG contents, for observation of the ultrastructure of mitochondria (with a transmission electron microscope) and survival within 12 h, for measurement of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) levels, and for determination of the expression of mitochondrial quality control-related proteins mitochondrial fusion protein 2 (Mfn2) and dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1α (PGC-1α), nuclear respiratory factor 1 (NRF1), mitophagy marker protein PTEN-induced kinase 1 (PINK1) and E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase Parkin.The ratio of GSH/GSSG was calculated. Results:Compared with control group (group WT, group HO-1 + /+ and group HO-1 -/-), the 12-h survival rate and MMP were significantly decreased, the lung injury score was increased, GSH content and GSH/GSSG ratio were decreased, and the content of GSSG was increased in endotoxin-induced ALI groups (group ALI, group HO-1 + /+ + ALI and group HO-1 -/-+ ALI) ( P<0.05). Compared with group ALI, the 12-h survival rate and MMP were significantly decreased, the lung injury score was increased, the GSH content and GSH/GSSG ratio were decreased, the GSSG content was increased, and the expression of HO-1, Mfn2, PGC-1α, NRF1, PINK1 and Parkin was down-regulated, and Drp1 expression was up-regulated in group HO-1 -/-+ ALI, and 12-h survival rate and MMP were significantly increased, lung injury score was decreased, GSH content and GSH/GSSG ratio were increased, GSSG content was decreased, the expression of HO-1, Mfn2, PGC-1α, NRF1, PINK1 and Parkin was up-regulated, and the expression of Drp1 was down-regulated in group HO-1 + /+ + ALI ( P<0.05). Conclusions:HO-1 is involved in the process of endotoxin-induced ALI in mice, which is related to the regulation of mitochondrial quality control.
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The clinical data of patients with severe acute pancreatitis complicated with intraabdominal hypertension or abdominal compartment syndrome admitted to our Department of Critical Care Medicine from January 1, 2018 to October 1, 2021 were collected and analyzed.Patients were divided into a conventional treatment group and conventional treatment plus IV infusion of cisatracurium besilate group (muscle relaxation group). A prediction model of treatment propensity score was developed for paired screening, with 31 cases in each group.The conventional treatment group adopted conventional basic treatment methods such as gastrointestinal decompression, spasmolysis and analgesia, fluid therapy, inhibition of gastric acid, suppression of parenzyme, nutritional support, mechanical ventilation, and enemata.In muscle relaxation group, cisatracurium besilate was intravenously infused on the basis of routine treatment with the initial dose of 0.15 mg/kg given to facilitate endotracheal intubation, followed by continuous intravenous infusion at 1-3 μg·kg -1·min -1, and the dose was adjusted according to the patient′s basic vital signs and clinical effects.The primary outcome was survival rate.Secondary outcome measures were changes in intraabdominal pressure, oxygenation index, the number of defecation, volume of defecation, and urination volume before treatment and on 7, 14 and 20 days of treatment.and the recovery time of bowel sounds, length of mechanical ventilation, time of intensive care unit treatment, and total hospitalization costs.Compared with conventional treatment group, the survival rate was significantly increased, the intraabdominal pressure was decreased on 7, 14 and 20 days of therapy, the oxygenation index was increased, the number of defecation and volume of defecation were increased on 7 and 14 days of therapy, urinary volume was increased before treatment and on day 7 of therapy, the recovery time of intestinal sound was significantly shortened ( P<0.05), and no significant change was found in urinary volume on days 14 and 20 of therapy, length of ventilation, time of intensive care unit treatment, and total hospitalization costs in muscle relaxation group ( P>0.05). In conclusion, cisatracurium besilate can improve oxygenation, promote the recovery of intestinal function and improve the survival rate when used to assist the treatment in the patients with severe acute pancreatitis complicated with intraabdominal hypertension.
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Objective:To evaluate the dose-effect relationship of compound lidocaine hydrochloride for transverse abdominal plane-rectus abdominis sheath block (TAP-RSB) for postoperative analgesia in elderly patients undergoing laparoscopic radical colon cancer surgery with general anesthesia.Methods:Elderly patients of either sex, aged≥65 yr, with body mass index <30 kg/m 2, of American Society Anesthesiologists physical status Ⅰ-Ⅲ, undergoing elective laparoscopic radical colon cancer surgery with general anesthesia, were selected.After induction of general anesthesia, compound lidocaine hydrochloride was given under ultrasound guidance for bilateral TAP block (20 ml on each side) and for bilateral RSB (10 ml on each side), with the initial concentration of 0.4%.Each time the concentration increased/decreased in the next patient depending on whether or not the analgesia was effective.The ratio between the two successive concentrations was 1.00∶1.15.The analgesic effects were evaluated by the Numerical Rating Scale at 1 h intervals from the time of postoperative admission to the post-anesthesia care unit until 8 h after TAP-RSB (Numerical Rating Scale ≤ 3 was considered as effective analgesia). The probit method was used to calculate the half effective concentration (EC 50) and 95% effective concentration (EC 95) and 95% confidence interval of compound lidocaine hydrochloride. Results:The EC 50 and EC 95(95% confidence interval)of compound lidocaine hydrochloride for TAP-RSB were 0.289% (0.232%-0.352%) and 0.404% (0.345%-0.970%), respectively, when used for postoperative analgesia in elderly patients undergoing laparoscopic radical colon cancer surgery with general anesthesia. Conclusions:The EC 50 and EC 95 of compound lidocaine hydrochloride for TAP-RSB are 0.289% and 0.404%, respectively, when used for postoperative analgesia in elderly patients undergoing laparoscopic radical colon cancer surgery with general anesthesia.
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Objective:To evaluate the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) on mitochondrial fusion and fission during intestinal injury in mice with endotoxemia and the role of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1).Methods:Fifty SPF-grade healthy male C57BL/6 mice, aged 8 weeks, weighing 18-22 g, were divided into 5 groups ( n=10 each) using a random number table method: control group (group C), endotoxemia group (group E), endotoxemia plus EA group (group E+ EA), endotoxemia plus EA plus hemin group (group E+ EA+ H) and endotoxemia plus EA plus Znpp-Ⅸ group (group E+ EA+ Znpp-Ⅸ). Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was intraperitoneally injected to develop the model of endotoxemia.Before LPS injection, the HO-1 inducer hemin 100 mg/kg was intraperitoneally injected in group E+ EA+ H, and the HO-1 inhibitor zinc protoporphyrin Ⅸ 10 μmol/kg was intraperitoneally injected in group E+ EA+ Znpp-Ⅸ.At 4, 3, 2 and 1 days and 30 min prior to development of the model, Zusanli and Hegu acupoints were stimulated with electric stimulator (disperse-dense wave, frequency 2 Hz/15 Hz, at a voltage of 1 mA) for 30 min, retaining the needle until the end of the experiment on the day of development of the model.Mice were sacrificed at 6 h after development of the model, and the small intestinal tissue was obtained from the terminal ileum for examination of the pathological results (with a light microscope) and ultrastructure of mitochondria (with an electron microscope) and for determination of the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), ATP and diamine oxidase (DAO) and expression of dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1), mitofusin 1 (Mfn1) and HO-1 (by Western blot). Results:Compared with group C, the level of ROS was significantly increased, ATP content and DAO activity were decreased, the expression of HO-1 and Drp1 was up-regulated, the expression of Mfn1 was down-regulated ( P<0.05), and pathological damage to small intestine tissues was found in group E. Compared with group E, the level of ROS was significantly decreased, ATP content and DAO activity were increased, the expression of HO-1 and Mfn1 was up-regulated, the expression of Drp1 was down-regulated ( P<0.05), and pathological damage to small intestine tissues was significantly attenuated in group E+ EA.Compared with group E+ EA, the level of ROS was significantly decreased, ATP content and DAO activity were increased, the expression of HO-1 and Mfn1 was up-regulated, the expression of Drp1 was down-regulated ( P<0.05), and pathological damage to small intestine tissues was significantly attenuated in group E+ EA+ H, and the level of ROS was significantly increased, ATP content and DAO activity were decreased, the expression of HO-1 and Mfn1 was down-regulated, the expression of Drp1 was up-regulated ( P<0.05), and pathological damage to small intestine tissues was accenuated in group E+ EA+ Znpp-Ⅸ. Conclusions:EA can promote mitochondrial fusion, inhibit mitochondrial fission, and alleviate intestinal damage in mice with endotoxemia, and the mechanism is related to the up-regulation of HO-1 expression.
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Objective:To evaluate the role of DNA methyltransferase in acute lung injury in septic mice.Methods:Forty-eight healthy male C57BL/6 mice, aged 6-8 weeks, weighing 20-25 g, were divided into 4 groups ( n=12 each) using a random number table method: sham operation group (group Sham), sham operation+ DNA methyltransferase inhibitor group (group Sham+ 5-Aza), sepsis group (group Sepsis) and sepsis+ DNA methyltransferase inhibitor group (group Sepsis+ 5-Aza). Sepsis model was developed by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) in anesthetized mice.Mice were sacrificed at 24 h after CLP, and lung tissues were obtained, DNA was extracted to determine the global DNA methylation by colorimetry, and RNA was extracted to detect the expression of DNA methyltransferase (DNMTl, DNMT3a, DNMT3b) mRNA by real-time fluorescent quantitative polymerase chain reaction, the wet/dry lung weight ratio (W/D ratio) was measured, the histopathological changes of lung tissues were determined by HE staining, the contents of interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), high-mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1) and malondialdehyde (MDA) and activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results:Compared with group Sham, the global DNA methylation was significantly increased, the expression of DNMT1 and DNMT3a mRNA was up-regulated, the lung injury score, W/D ratio, and contents of IL-6, TNF-α, HMGB1 and MDA were increased, and activities of SOD and CAT were decreased at 24 h after CLP in group Sepsis and group Sepsis+ 5-Aza ( P<0.05), and no significant change was found in the indexes mentioned above in group Sham+ 5-Aza ( P>0.05). Compared with group Sepsis, the global DNA methylation was significantly decreased, the expression of DNMT1 and DNMT3a mRNA was down-regulated, the lung injury score, W/D ratio, contents of IL-6, TNF-α, HMGB1 and MDA were decreased, and the activities of SOD and CAT were increased in group Sepsis+ 5-Aza ( P<0.05). Conclusions:DNA hypermethylation mediated by DNMT1 and DNMT3a is involved in the process of acute lung injury in septic mice.
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Objective:To evaluate the relationship between changes in Golgi apparatus morphological structure and endotoxin-induced acute lung injury (ALI) in mice.Methods:Twenty healthy male C57BL/6J mice, weighing 18-20 g, aged 6-8 weeks, were divided into 2 groups ( n=10 each) using a random number table method: sham operation group (group Sham) and endotoxin-induced ALI group (group ALI). Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) 10 mg/kg was injected intravenously in group ALI, while the equal volume of normal saline 0.5 ml was given instead in group Sham.The animals were sacrificed at 12 h after LPS injection and the lung tissues were taken for detection of the content of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and wet to dry weight ratio (W/D ratio), for observation of the pathological changes (using HE staining) and Golgi apparatus morphological structure (with a transmission electron microscope) and for determination of expression of Golgi matrix protein 130 (GM130), Golgin97 and mannosidase alpha class II member 1 (MAN2A1) and its mRNA (by Western blot and quantitative polymerase chain reaction). Results:Compared with group Sham, ROS content and the W/D ratio in lung tissues were significantly increased, GM130, MAN2A1, Golgin97 protein and its mRNA expression were down-regulate ( P<0.01), the pathological changes of lung tissues were accentuated, the Golgi cisternae was swollen, and Golgi fragments were dispersed in the cytoplasm in group ALI. Conclusion:The mechanism of endotoxin-induced ALI may be related to the changes in Golgi apparatus morphological structure.
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Objective:To evaluate the role of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD + )-mediated deacetylation activity of silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1) in endotoxin-induced acute lung injury (ALI) in mice. Methods:Twenty-five SPF clean-grade healthy male C57BL/6 mice including 10 wild-type (WT) and 15 NMNAT1 conditional-knockout (KO) mice, aged 6-8 weeks, weighing 20-25 g, were selected.The WT mice were divided into 2 groups ( n=5 each) using a random number table method: control group (group WT+ C) and ALI group (group WT+ ALI). The KO mice were divided into 3 groups ( n=5 each) using a random number table method: control group (group KO+ C), ALI group (group KO+ ALI) and ALI plus NAD + precursor substances nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) group (KO+ LPS+ NMN group). ALI was produced with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) 15 mg/kg injected intravenously.NMN 500 mg/kg was intraperitoneally injected at 1 h before injection of LPS in KO+ ALI+ NMN group, while the equal volume of normal saline was given instead in control group.Blood samples were collected from the abdominal aorta at 12 h after LPS or normal saline injection for blood gas analysis, and the animals were then sacrificed and the lung tissues were removed for microscopic examination of pathologic changes which were scored and for determination of wet/dry weight ratio (W/D ratio), and interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-1β and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) contents (by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay)and content of NAD + (using a spectrophotometer) and levels of SIRT1, acetylated nuclear factor kappaB (Ac-NF-κB), acetylated p53 (Ac-p53), acetylated FoxO1 (Ac-FoxO1) and acetylated PGC1α (Ac-PGC1α) (by Western blot). Results:Compared with group C, pH value and PaO 2 were significantly decreased, the PaCO 2, W/D ratio, lung injury score, contents of IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α and NAD + were increased, expression of SIRT1 was up-regulated, and expression of Ac-NF-κB, Ac-p53, Ac-FoxO1 and Ac-PGC1α was down-regulated in group ALI ( P<0.05). Compared with group WT+ ALI, pH value and PaO 2 were significantly decreased, the PaCO 2, W/D ratio, lung injury score, contents of IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α were increased, NAD + content was decreased, expression of SIRT1 was down-regulated, and expression of Ac-NF-κB, Ac-p53, Ac-FoxO1 and Ac-PGC1α was up-regulated in group KO+ ALI ( P<0.05). Compared with group KO+ ALI, pH value and PaO 2 were significantly increased, the PaCO 2, W/D ratio, lung injury score, contents of IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α were decreased, NAD + content was increased, expression of SIRT1 was up-regulated, and expression of Ac-NF-κB, Ac-p53, Ac-FoxO1 and Ac-PGC1α was down-regulated in group KO+ ALI+ NMN ( P<0.05). Conclusion:The enhanced NAD + -mediated deacetylation activity of SIRT1 is involved in the endogenous protective mechanism in mice with endotoxin-induced ALI.
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Objective:To evaluate the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) pretreatment on oxidative stress response of hippocampus in rats with sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE) and the relationship with nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase-1 (Nrf2/HO-1) signaling pathway.Methods:A total of 64 healthy adult male Sprague-Dawley rats, weighing 250-300 g, were divided into 4 groups ( n=16 each) using a random number table method: sham operation group (Sham group), SAE group, SAE+ EA group and SAE plus sham EA group (SAE+ SEA group). In SAE+ EA group, Baihui, Quchi and Zusanli acupoints were stimulated for 30 min once a day for 5 consecutive days.Sepsis was induced by cecal ligation and puncture immediately after the end of the last EA.At 1 and 7 days after establishment of the model, the hippocampal malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, the expression of hippocampal Nrf2 mRNA was detected using real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, and the expression of Nrf2 and HO-1 was determined by Western blot.At 3-7 days after establishment of the model, cognitive function was assessed using the Morris water maze test, and the escape latency and the target quadrant exploration time were recorded. Results:Compared with Sham group, the content of MDA was significantly increased and the activity of SOD was decreased at 1 and 7 days after establishment of the model, the expression of Nrf2 protein and mRNA and HO-1 was down-regulated at day 7 after establishment of the model, the escape latency was prolonged, and the target quadrant exploration time was shortened in SAE group ( P<0.05). Compared with SAE group, the content of MDA was significantly decreased and the activity of SOD was increased at 1 and 7 days after establishment of the model, the expression of Nrf2 protein and mRNA and HO-1 was up-regulated at day 7 after establishment of the model, the escape latency was shortened, and the target quadrant exploration time was prolonged in group SAE+ EA ( P<0.05), and no significant change was found in the parameters mentioned above in group SAE+ SEA ( P>0.05). Conclusion:EA pretreatment can reduce oxidative stress response of hippocampus in rats with SAE, and the mechanism may be related to activating Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway.
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The clinical data of patients with severe acute pancreatitis admitted to the Department of Intensive Care Unit in our hospital from January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2020 were retrospectively collected.The patients were divided into electroacupuncture combined with Qingyi decoction treatment group (acupuncture group) and conventional group according to whether the patients received electroacupuncture combined with Qingyi decoction treatment.A prediction model of treatment propensity score was established for paired screening, with 122 cases in each group.The acupoints such as Zusanli, Sanyinjiao, Hegu, Shangjuxu, Xiajuxu, and Taichong were selected, and then electroacupuncture treatment was performed after qi arrival using the manipulation technique, 1 or 2 times per day.Qingyi decoction was injected through the stomach and/or Qingyi decoction was given by coloclysis, 2-4 doses per day.The main outcome was the incidence of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and the secondary outcome was the occurrence of complications and outcome of discharge.Compared with conventional group, the incidence of ARDS was significantly decreased, the time of mechanical ventilation was shortened, the incidence of renal dysfunction, score for acute physiology and chronic health score system, sequential organ failure score, and score for the severity of bedside acute pancreatitis were decreased, the rate of surgical intervention was increased, the total length of hospital stay was prolonged, and the fatality rate during hospitalization was reduced in acupuncture group ( P<0.05). The results of subgroup analysis showed that the onset time of disease (<1 week), a history of cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, biliary pancreatitis and alcoholic pancreatitis, high fever, puncture and drainage were influencing factors for ARDS developed in the patients who received electroacupuncture combined with Qingyi decoction for treating severe acute pancreatitis.In conclusion, electroacupuncture combined with Qingyi decoction as an adjuvant treatment for severe acute pancreatitis can reduce acute lung injury, promote recovery, and decrease fatality rate.
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Objective:To evaluate the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on pyroptosis in renal tubular epithelial cells of rats with acute kidney injury (AKI) induced by endotoxin.Methods:Twenty-four healthy clean-grade Sprague-Dawley rats of either gender, aged 6-8 weeks, weighing 160-182 g, were divided into 4 groups ( n=6 each) using a random number table method: control group (group C), group AKI, EA plus AKI group (group EA), sham EA at non-acupoint plus AKI group (group SEA). The model of endotoxemia was established by intraperitoneally injecting 10 mg/kg lipopolysaccharide.Bilateral 30 min EA stimulation of Zusanli and Shenyu (according to atlas of animal acupoint) was performed starting from 5 days before establishing the model (once a day) and at 30 min before lipopolysaccharide administration on the day of establishing the model, with disperse-dense waves, frequency of 15 Hz, and the needle was kept until 6 h after injection of LPS in group EA.EA was performed at the points 0.5 cm lateral to the acupoints of Zusanli and Shenyu in group SEA.At 6 h after LPS injection, blood was taken from the heart, and the concentrations of serum blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine (Cr) were detected by an automatic biochemical analyzer, and the serum concentrations of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.The rats were then sacrificed, and the left renal cortex was obtained for determination of pyroptosis rate of renal tubular epithelial cells (by TUNEL). The right renal cortex was obtained to detect the expression of caspase-1 and IL-1β by Western blot, and the expression of caspase-1 mRNA and IL-1β mRNA was detected by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results:Compared with group C, the concentrations of BUN, Cr, NGAL, KIM-1, TNF-α, and IL-6 were significantly increased, the pyroptosis rate of renal tubular epithelial cells was increased, the expression of caspase-1 and IL-1β protein and mRNA in the renal cortex was up-regulated in group AKI ( P<0.05). Compared with group AKI, the concentrations of BUN, Cr, NGAL, KIM-1, TNF-α, and IL-6 were significantly decreased, the pyroptosis rate of renal tubular epithelial cells was decreased, the expression of caspase-1 and IL-1β protein and mRNA in the renal cortex was down-regulated in group SEA ( P>0.05). Conclusion:The mechanism by which EA reduces AKI may be related to inhibiting pyroptosis in renal tubular epithelial cells of rats.
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Objective:To investigate the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on synaptic damage to hippocampal neurons in rats with sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE).Methods:A total of 48 healthy adult male Sprague-Dawley rats, weighing 250-300 g, were divided into 4 groups ( n=12 each) using a random number table method: sham operation group (Sham group), SAE group, SAE+ EA group and SAE+ sham EA group (SAE+ SEA group). SAE was induced by cecal ligation and puncture in anesthetized rats.Baihui, Quchi and Zusanli acupoints were stimulated with constant voltage (2/15 Hz) and disperse-dense waves for 30 min once a day for 10 consecutive days, and the stimulation intensity was defined as less than 1.5 mA causing slight muscle contraction at 2 days before operation in group SAE+ EA.In group SAE+ SEA, stimulating electrodes were placed at the points 5 mm lateral to the corresponding acupoints, but no electrical stimulation was applied.On day 14 after operation, the rats were sacrificed, and hippocampal tissues were obtained and stained with haematoxylin and eosin for examination of the pathological changes in the hippocampal CA1 region, for determination of the expression of synaptophysin (SYN) and postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD-95) (by Western blot), and for calculation of dendritic spine density of neurons in the hippocampal CA1 area (using Golgi staining) and pyramidal neurons counts. Results:Compared with Sham group, the expression of SYN and PSD-95 in hippocampus was significantly decreased, and the basal and apical dendrite spine density of neurons in hippocampal CA1 area was decreased in SAE group, the expression of PSD-95 was decreased, and the apical dendrite spine density of neurons in the hippocampal CA1 area was increased in SAE+ EA group, and the pyramidal neuron counts in the hippocampal CA1 area were reduced in SAE, SAE+ EA and SAE+ SEA groups ( P<0.05). Compared with group SAE, the expression of SYN and PSD-95 was significantly up-regulated, the basal and apical dendrite spine density of neurons in the hippocampal CA1 area was increased and the pyramidal neuron counts were increased in group SAE+ EA ( P<0.05), the pathological damage of hippocampal CA1 area was alleviated and no significant change was found in the parameters mentioned above in group SAE+ SEA ( P>0.05). Compared with group SAE+ EA, the expression of SYN and PSD-95 was down-regulated, the basal and apical dendrite spine density of neurons in the hippocampal CA1 area was decreased, and the pyramidal neuron counts were reduced in SAE+ SEA group ( P<0.05). Conclusion:The mechanism by which EA alleviates SAE may be related to reducing synaptic damage to hippocampal neurons in rats.