Risk factors for clinically significant diffuse parenchymal lung abnormalities persisting after severe COVID-19 pneumonia

Background & objectives: The risk factors for clinically significant diffuse parenchymal lung abnormalities (CS-DPLA) persisting after severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia remain unclear. The present study was conducted to assess whether COVID-19 severity and other parameters are associated with CS-DPLA. Methods: The study participants included patients who recovered after acute severe COVID-19 and presented with CS-DPLA at two or six month follow up and control group (without CS-DPLA). Adults volunteers without any acute illness, chronic respiratory illness and without a history of severe COVID-19 were included as healthy controls for the biomarker study. The CS-DPLA was identified as a multidimensional entity involving clinical, radiological and physiological pulmonary abnormalities. The primary exposure was the neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR). Recorded confounders included age, sex, peak lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), advanced respiratory support (ARS), length of hospital stay (LOS) and others; associations were analyzed using logistic regression. The baseline serum levels of surfactant protein D, cancer antigen 15-3 and transforming growth factor-? (TGF-?) were also compared among cases, controls and healthy volunteers. Results: We identified 91/160 (56.9%) and 42/144 (29.2%) participants with CS-DPLA at two and six months, respectively. Univariate analyses revealed associations of NLR, peak LDH, ARS and LOS with CS-DPLA at two months and of NLR and LOS at six months. The NLR was not independently associated with CS-DPLA at either visit. Only LOS independently predicted CS-DPLA at two months [adjusted odds ratios (aOR) (95% confidence interval [CI]), 1.16 (1.07-1.25); P<0.001] and six months [aOR (95% CI) and 1.07 (1.01-1.12); P=0.01]. Participants with CS-DPLA at six months had higher baseline serum TGF-? levels than healthy volunteers. Interpretation and conclusions: Longer hospital stay was observed to be the only independent predictor of CS-DPLA six months after severe COVID-19. Serum TGF-? should be evaluated further as a biomarker.

Intervention effect of physical exercise on silicotic mice / 环境与职业医学

Background Pneumoconiosis is the most serious occupational disease in China, and silicosis accounts for about half of it. Any intervention effect of physical exercise as the key and core of lung rehabilitation training on silicosis is still unclear. Objective To explore potential intervention effect of physical exercise on silicotic mice. Methods Forty SPF C57BL/6 male mice were randomly divided into four groups, 10 in each group, including a control group, a physical exercise group, a silicosis model group, and a silicosis model + physical exercise intervention group. Silicotic mouse model was established by using 50 μL SiO2 suspension (200 mg·mL−1). A treadmill was used to prepare mice receiving physical exercise at 0° inclination, 12.3 m·min−1, 60 min·d−1, 5 d·week−1 for 4 weeks. Pathological morphology of lung tissues was evaluated after hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining; deposition of collagen in lung tissues was evaluated after Van Gieson (VG) staining; expression of p-protein kinase R-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK) was detected by immunofluorescence staining; expressions of cyclin dependent kinase inhibitors (p21) and p-p38 mitogen activated protein kinase (p38) were detected by immunohistochemistry. The protein expressions of endoplasmic reticulum stress signal factors [p-inositol-requiring enzyme-1α (p-IRE-1α), p-PERK, and p-eukaryotic initiation factor-2α (p-eIF-2α)], senescence signal factors (p-p53, p21, and p16), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signal factors [p-p38, p-extracellular regulated protein kinases (p-ERK), and p-stress-activated protein kinase (p-JNK)] were detected by Western blotting. Results After designed acute SiO2 exposure, the images of micro computed tomography (CT) showed high density shadows in lung tissues of the silicotic mice and less shadows in lung tissues of the physical exercise intervention mice. After HE staining, the proportions of silicotic nodule area in lung tissues was (18.67±3.89) % in the silicosis model group, and significantly decreased to (8.78±1.05) % in the silicosis model + physical exercise intervention group (P<0.05). After VG staining, the proportion of collagen fiber area of lung tissues was (10.37±2.18) % in the silicosis model group, and significantly decreased to (4.35±0.89) % in the silicosis model + physical exercise intervention group (P<0.05). The results of immunofluorescence staining showed that in the silicosis model group, the expression of p-PERK increased at the location of silicotic nodules, while in the silicotic model + physical exercise intervention group, the expression of p-PERK decreased. The immunohistochemical staining results showed that the expression of p21 and p-p38 increased in the lung tissues of the silicosis model group; the expression of p21 and p-p38 decreased in the lung tissues of the silicosis model + physical exercise intervention group. The results of Western blotting showed that compared with the control group, the expression levels of p-IRE-1α (0.11±0.03), p-PERK (0.95±0.40), p-eIF-2α (3.53±0.91), p-p53 (1.78±0.07), p21 (1.98±0.10), p16 (1.26±0.17), p-p38 (0.41±0.09), p-ERK (0.42±0.05), and p-JNK (3.20±1.23) of the silicosis model group were all upregulated (P<0.05). Compared with the silicosis model group, the expression levels of p-IRE-1α (0.03±0.01), p-PERK (0.31±0.12), p-eIF-2α (0.30±0.06), p-p53 (0.76±0.08), p21 (0.18±0.11), p16 (0.70±0.24), p-p38 (0.03±0.00), p-ERK (0.19±0.03), and p-JNK (0.46±0.21) of the silicosis model + physical exercise intervention group were downregulated (P<0.05). Conclusion Physical exercise may alleviate pulmonary fibrosis in silicotic mice, and inhibit abnormal expressions of endoplasmic reticulum stress signal, MAPK signal, and senescent signal.

Suppression of NLRP3 inflammasome by ivermectin ameliorates bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis / 浙江大学学报（英文版）（B辑：生物医学和生物技术）

Ivermectin is a US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved antiparasitic agent with antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Although recent studies reported the possible anti-inflammatory activity of ivermectin in respiratory injuries, its potential therapeutic effect on pulmonary fibrosis (PF) has not been investigated. This study aimed to explore the ability of ivermectin (0.6 mg/kg) to alleviate bleomycin-induced biochemical derangements and histological changes in an experimental PF rat model. This can provide the means to validate the clinical utility of ivermectin as a treatment option for idiopathic PF. The results showed that ivermectin mitigated the bleomycin-evoked pulmonary injury, as manifested by the reduced infiltration of inflammatory cells, as well as decreased the inflammation and fibrosis scores. Intriguingly, ivermectin decreased collagen fiber deposition and suppressed transforming growth factor-‍β1 (TGF-‍β1) and fibronectin protein expression, highlighting its anti-fibrotic activity. This study revealed for the first time that ivermectin can suppress the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD)‍-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, as manifested by the reduced gene expression of NLRP3 and the apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain (ASC), with a subsequent decline in the interleukin‍-‍1β (IL‍-‍1β) level. In addition, ivermectin inhibited the expression of intracellular nuclear factor-‍κB (NF‍-‍κB) and hypoxia‑inducible factor‑1α (HIF‍-‍1α) proteins along with lowering the oxidative stress and apoptotic markers. Altogether, this study revealed that ivermectin could ameliorate pulmonary inflammation and fibrosis induced by bleomycin. These beneficial effects were mediated, at least partly, via the downregulation of TGF-‍β1 and fibronectin, as well as the suppression of NLRP3 inflammasome through modulating the expression of HIF‑1α and NF-‍κB.

Interventional effect of asiaticosdide on rats exposed to silica dust / 中华劳动卫生职业病杂志

Objective: To investigate the effect of asiaticoside for fibrosis in lung tissues of rats exposed to silica and to explore its possible mechanism. Methods: 144 SD male rats were randomly divided into control group, model group, positive drug control group, asiaticoside high-dose group, medium-dose group and low-dose group, each group included 24 rats. Rats in the control group were perfused with 1.0 ml of normal saline, and the other groups were given 1.0 ml 50 mg/ml SiO(2) suspension. Gavage of herbal was given from the next day after model establishment, once a day. Rats in the positive drug control group were administration with 30 mg/kg tetrandrine and rats in the low-dose group, medium-dose group and high-dose group were given 20 mg/kg, 40 mg/kg and 60 mg/kg asiaticoside for fibrosis respectively. Rats in the control group and the model group were given 0.9% normal saline. The rats were sacrificed in on the 14th, 28th and 56th day after intragastric administration and collect the lung tissues to detect the content of hydroxyproline, TGF-β(1) and IL-18, observe the pathological changes of the lung tissues by HE and Masson staining and determine the expressions of Col-I, a-SMA, TGF-β in lung tissues by Western Blot. Results: On the 14th day, 28th day and 56th day after model establishment, the lung tissues of rats in the model group showed obvious inflammatory response and accumulation of collagen fibers, and the degree of inflammation and fibrosis increased with time. The intervention of asiaticoside could effectively inhibit the pathological changes of lung tissues. The contents of hydroxyproline, IL-18 and TGF-β1 in lung tissues of model group were higher than those in the control group (P<0.05) , while the level of hydroxyproline, IL-18 and TGF-β1 in asiaticoside groups were significantly decreased, and the difference was statistically signicant (P<0.05) . Compared with the control group, the expression levels of Col-I, TGF-β1and α-SMA in lung tissue of model group were increased (P<0.05) , while the expression level of Col-I, TGF-β1 and α-SMA were decreased after the intervention of asiaticoside, and the difference was statistically signicant (P<0.05) . Conclusion: Asiaticoside can inhibit the increase of Col-I, TGF-β1 and α-SMA content in the SiO(2)-induced lung tissues of rats, reduce the release of TGF-β1 and IL-18 inflammatory factors in lung tissue, and then inhibit the synthesis and deposition of extracellular matrix in rat lung tissue, and improve silicosis fibrosis.

Pirfenidone inhibits the polarization of M2 macrophages by down-regulating IRF4 to reduce the occurrence and development of radiation-induced lung fibrosis / 中华放射肿瘤学杂志

Objective:To explore the preventive and therapeutic effect of pirfenidone (PFD) on radiation-induced lung fibrosis (RILF) and its mechanism.Methods:40 female C57/BL6 mice were randomly divided into 4 groups: negative control group (NC), PFD treatment group (PFD), radiation treatment group (RT) and radiation plus PFD treatment group (RT+ PFD). Mice in RT and RT+ PFD groups received a single whole lung X-ray consisting of a 50 Gy dose of radiation, delivered by small animal radiation research platform (SARRP). PFD at a dose of 300 mg/kg was administered orally 2 h before irradiation for 150 d. HE and Masson staining were used to detect the infiltration of inflammatory cells and the degree of pulmonary fibrosis. Quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) and Western blotting (WB) were adopted to detect the expression levels of M1/M2 macrophage phenotypic markers. The expression levels of arginase-1(ARG-1), chitinase 3-like protein 3(YM-1) and interferon regulatory factor-4(IRF4) of macrophages stimulated with IL-4 and IL-13 were detected by WB. In addition, immunofluorescence staining was used to detect the expression and translocation of IRF4 in macrophages among different treatment groups.Results:HE and Masson staining showed that PFD could significantly inhibit radiation-induced infiltration of inflammatory cells and fibrosis in lung tissues. The M2 macrophages and expression levels of ARG-1 and YM-1 were down-regulated in the RT+ PFD group. Cell experiments further confirmed that PFD could significantly inhibit the polarization of macrophages to M2 induced by IL-4+ IL-13, which was mainly related to the down-regulation of IRF4.Conclusion:PFD has a preventive and therapeutic effect on RILF by inhibiting IRF4 and reducing the polarization of macrophages to M2.

Relationship between bleomycin and radiation-induced interstitial pneumonia and activation of serotonin degradation system and exploration of its treatment / 药学学报

Previously, we discovered that cells contain a 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) degradation system (5DS), which includes 5-HT2A receptor (5-HT2AR), 5-HT synthase, and monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A). Among these, 5-HT2AR has the ability to regulate the expression of 5-HT synthase and MAO-A, and activation of 5DS causes upregulation of these proteins at the same time, resulting in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the mitochondria. In this study, we investigated the relationship between interstitial pneumonia (IP) and 5DS activation, as well as the therapeutic effect of inhibiting 5DS on IP. Animal models of bleomycin (BLM)-induced IP in mice and radiation (Rad)-induced IP in rats were established, and the models were treated with the 5-HT2AR antagonist sarpogrelate hydrochloride (SH), 5-HT synthesis inhibitor carbidopa (CDP), and their combination (SH∶CDP = 2∶1). The animal experiments were carried out in accordance with the regulations of the Animal Ethics Committee of China Pharmaceutical University. In the two IP models, immunohistochemistry staining and Western blot analysis showed that the expression of 5-HT synthase was significantly upregulated in all cells of lung tissue, while the expression of 5-HT2AR and MAO-A was most significantly upregulated in the macrophages. Treatment with SH or CDP significantly reduced pulmonary interstitial thickening, alveolar atrophy with collapse, massive macrophage infiltration and interstitial fibrosis in the two IP models, as measured by HE and Masson staining, and a combination of both almost eliminated the lung tissue lesions. Moreover, treatment with the combination of SH and CDP almost completely eliminated increased ROS and malondialdehyde levels, decreased superoxide dismutase activity, increased tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1β levels, and upregulated nuclear factor-κB phosphorylation and α‍-smooth muscle actin, matrix metalloproteinase-2, and collagen expression. SH and CDP worked together to create a synergistic effect. The findings suggested that the activation of 5DS, as evidenced by increased 5-HT synthesis in all cells of lung tissue and increased 5-HT synthesis and degradation in macrophages, is probably related to the occurrence of IP and that inhibition of 5DS can effectively treat IP.

The cell cycle inhibitor p21 promote mouse lung fibrosis by activating alveolar macrophages / 药学学报

This study was to determine the expression of the cell cycle inhibitor p21 in alveolar macrophages (AMs) and the role of p21 in activation of AMs in bleomycin (BLM) injury-induced lung fibrosis. The expression of CD206 in AMs was measured by immunofluorescence staining. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay was used to detect the expression of macrophage activation markers. The coculture assay for macrophage and fibroblast was employed to explore the effect of macrophage on fibroblast activation. Immunofluorescence staining and western blotting assay were adopted to detect the expression of p21 in fibrotic tissues. AMs were treated with p21 knockdown or overexpression virus, RT-PCR and the co-culture system were used to explore the effect of p21 expression on macrophage activation. The Experimental Animal Welfare Ethics Committee of the Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College approved all of the protocols for this research. Our results showed that the expression of CD206 and macrophage activation markers was increased in AMs from fibrotic mice, indicating that AMs from fibrotic mice were associated with a profibrotic phenotype. Moreover, the expression of p21 was upregulated in AMs after BLM treatment. Depletion of p21 suppressed macrophage activation, while overexpression of p21 promoted the profibrotic phenotype of AMs from healthy mice. In summary, BLM injury causes the progressive accumulation of p21 in AMs, which induces the production of a number of profibrotic factors promoting the development of pulmonary fibrosis.

Normal lung tissue response following hypofractionated radiation based on radiological parameters / 中华放射医学与防护杂志

Objective@#To study dose-response relationships of fractionated irradiation induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice according to radiological imaging changes of lung.@*Methods@#A total of 8-10 week old-female C57BL6 mice were randomized into different groups for whole thoracic irradiation. The prescribed doses were 0, 2.0, 4.0, 6.0, 7.0, 8.5 Gy per fraction in a total of 5 fractions. CT imaging was performed at 24 weeks post irradiation. The averaged lung density and volume changes were obtained by the three-dimensional segmentation algorithm, and further analyzed in Boltzmann regression modeling.@*Results@#At the endpoint of 24 weeks, the dose-dependent pulmonary radiological alternations were revealed by coronal view of CT images. Translational analysis of fibrosis-related gene-signatures as well as histological collagen stainings further corroborated the radiological findings. According to Boltzmann modeling, the E50 of radiation-induced lung density changes was found to be (30.80±0.80)Gy (adjusted R2=0.97); whereas the E50 for radiation-induced lung volume reduction was determined as (31.31±7.07)Gy (adjusted R2=0.92). Both outcomes indicated a remarkable enhancement of tolerance to normal lung tissues after exposure with 5-fraction versus single fraction scheme.@*Conclusions@#The radiation-induced lung density and volume changes depend not only on total dose, but also the number and dose of fractions.

Dose-response relationship of radiation-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mouse models based on CT-derived parameters / 中华放射肿瘤学杂志

Objective To investigate the radiation induced pulmonary fibrosis with a dose-response mouse model, based on the CT image changes of pulmonary fibrosis.Methods Female C57BL6 mice aged 8-10 weeks were randomly divided into 20 Gy or escalated doses of X-ray whole thoracic irradiation ( WTI) groups. CT scan was performed at different time points before and after radiation. The average lung density and lung volume changes were obtained by three-dimensional segmentation algorithm. After gene chip and pathological validation, the parameters of CT scan were subject to the establishment of logistic regression model. Results At the endpoint of 24 weeks post-irradiation, the lung density in the 20 Gy irradiation group was (-289.81± 12.06) HU, significantly increased compared with (-377.97± 6.24) HU in the control group ( P<0.001) . The lung volume was ( 0.66±0.01) cm3 in the control group, significantly larger than ( 0.44±0.03) cm3 in the irradiated mice ( P<0.001) . The results of quantitative imaging analysis were in accordance with the findings of HE and Mason staining, which were positively correlated with the fibrosis-related biomarkers at the transcriptional level ( all R2=0.75, all P<0.001) . The ED50 for increased lung density was found to be ( 13.64± 0.14) Gy ( R2=0.99, P<0.001) and ( 16.17± 4.36) Gy ( R2=0.89, P<0.001) for decreased lung volume according to the logistic regression model. Conclusions Quantitative CT measurement of lung density and volume are reliable imaging parameters to evaluate the degree of radiation-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mouse models. The dose-response mouse models with pulmonary fibrosis changes can provide experimental basis for comparative analysis of high-dose hypofractioned irradiation-and half-lung irradiation-induced pulmonary fibrosis.

Normal lung tissue response following hypofractionated radiation based on radiological parameters / 中华放射医学与防护杂志

Objective To study dose-response relationships of fractionated irradiation induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice according to radiological imaging changes of lung. Methods A total of 8-10 week old-female C57BL6 mice were randomized into different groups for whole thoracic irradiation. The prescribed doses were 0, 2. 0, 4. 0, 6. 0, 7. 0, 8. 5 Gy per fraction in a total of 5 fractions. CT imaging was performed at 24 weeks post irradiation. The averaged lung density and volume changes were obtained by the three-dimensional segmentation algorithm, and further analyzed in Boltzmann regression modeling. Results At the endpoint of 24 weeks, the dose-dependent pulmonary radiological alternations were revealed by coronal view of CT images. Translational analysis of fibrosis-related gene-signatures as well as histological collagen stainings further corroborated the radiological findings. According to Boltzmann modeling, the E50 of radiation-induced lung density changes was found to be (30.80±0.80)Gy (adjusted R2 =0.97);whereas the E50 for radiation-induced lung volume reduction was determined as ( 31. 31 ± 7. 07 ) Gy(adjusted R2=0. 92). Both outcomes indicated a remarkable enhancement of tolerance to normal lung tissues after exposure with 5-fraction versus single fraction scheme. Conclusions The radiation-induced lung density and volume changes depend not only on total dose, but also the number and dose of fractions.

Prolonged low-dose cyclophosphamide treatment after pulse therapy attenuates lung injury in rats with paraquat intoxication

BACKGROUND/AIMS: This study tested the hypothesis that prolonged low-dose cyclophosphamide (CTX) treatment after pulse therapy attenuate paraquat (PQ)-induced lung injury in rats. METHODS: PQ (25 mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally to induce PQ-intoxicated rat model. The rats were randomly divided into four groups: control group (1 mL/day saline solution for 14 days), PQ group (1 mL/day saline solution for 14 days after PQ exposure), pulse group (15 mg/kg/day CTX in 1 mL of saline solution for 2 days and subsequent 1 mL/day saline solution for 12 days), and prolonged low-dose group (15 mg/kg/day CTX in 1 mL of saline solution for 2 days and subsequent 1.5 mg/kg/day CTX in 1 mL of saline solution for 12 days). A 14-day follow-up was conducted to determine the survival rat, and lung hydroxyproline (HYP), wet-to-dry weight ratios (W/Dc) and histopathological changes were evaluated. RESULTS: Results showed similar survival rate (55% vs. 50%, p > 0.05) between prolonged low-dose and pulse groups. Lung W/Dc (4.94 ± 0.38 vs. 5.47 ± 0.28, p < 0.01), HYP (3.34 ± 0.29 µg/mg vs. 3.65 ± 0.19 µg/mg, p < 0.001), and fibrosis score (2.69 ± 0.84 vs. 3.13 ± 0.63, p < 0.05) were lower in prolonged low-dose group than those in the pulse group. CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggested prolonged low-dose CTX treatment after pulse therapy could attenuate PQ-induced lung injury in rats.

Effects of Xuanfei Huayu Formula on expression of TGF-β1/Smad in lung tissue of pulmonary fibrosis rats / 中草药

Objective: To investigate the effects of Xuanfei Huayu Formula (XFHY) on the expression of TGF-β1/Smad2 in pulmonary fibrosis rats. Methods: Sixty male SPF Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups: negative control group (group A), pulmonary fibrosis model group (group B), prednisone positive control group (group C, 0.167 mg/kg), the high doses of XFHY groups (group D, 14.38 g/kg), the medium doses of XFHY groups (group E, 7.19 g/kg), and the low doses of XFHY groups (group F, 3.60 g/kg) with ten rats in each group. The pulmonary fibrosis model was established by nasal instillation of bleomycin 7 μg/g (150 μL); In 8 h after the modle establishment, the rats in C, D, E, and F groups were respectively treated with prednisone acetate or XFHY once daily. Negative control group (group A) and model group (group B) were given equal volume physiological saline. The rats in different groups were executed 28 d after modeling for sampling. The HE and sirius red staining were used to observe alveolitis even pulmonary fibrosis changes in lung tissue under the microscope; The alkaline hydrolysis method was adopted to determine the content of hydroxyproline (Hyp) in lung tissue; The immunohistochemical method was used to determine the expression of alpha-SMA, Smad4, and Smad7 in rat lung tissues. The expression levels of TGF-β RII, Smad2, p-Smad2, and Smad7 proteins were detected by Western blotting. Results: The alveolar structure of the model group was severely damaged, and the interstitial hyperplasia, inflammatory cell infiltration, and collagen fibrosis were observed. Compared with the negative control group, the content of hydroxyproline and collagen staining was significantly increased in the model group. Compared with the model group, the expression of collagen fibers in the alveolar interval of three-dose group and prednisolone acetate group was significantly reduced, and the content of hydroxyproline was decreased significantly. Among them, the collagen fiber expression in XFHY high-dose group was less than XFHY low- and medium-dose group, and the hydroxyproline content was much lower. The above results showed that XFHY had a certain dose-effect relationship with the efficacy of pulmonary fibrosis. On this basis, the mechanism of the action of XFHY continues to it should be further explored. It was found that the protein content of TGF-β RII, Smad2, p-Smad2, Smad4, and α-SMA were decreased significantly, while the expression of Smad7 was higher in the XFHY group compared with the model group. Conclusion: XFHY can effectively prevent and treat pulmonary fibrosis, and its mechanism may relate to inhibit the over-expression of the α-SMA by regulating the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway, thereby reducing the formation of collagen fibers.

The protective effects of WIN55212-2 for lung injury in paraquat poisoned mice / 中华急诊医学杂志

Objective To explore the protective effects of cannabinoid analogues WIN55212-2 on paraquat poisoned mice. Methods Totally 35 healthy male C57BL/6 mice were randomly(random number) divided into four groups: PQ group (paraquat poisoned, n=10), WIN 1 mg group (PQ+WIN55212-21 mg n=10), WIN 2 mg group (PQ+WIN55212-22 mg, n=10), control group (n=5).The PQ poisoned animal models were established in the PQ group, WIN 1 mg group and WIN 2 mg group by intraperitoneally injection of paraquat with a concentration of 20 mg/kg. Intraperitoneal injection of WIN55212-2 (containing Tween 80 cosolvent) at the concentration of 1 mg/kg and 2 mg/kg was performed 1 h before PQ exposure in the two interfered groups. Equivalent volume of saline was given to the control group. WIN55212-2 was injected twice a week from the second week. In the acute phase (14 d), 5 mice were randomly sacrificed in the PQ group, WIN 1 mg group and WIN 2 mg group, and 3 mice were sacrificed in the control group to obtain blood sample, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and lung tissue. All the remaining mice were executed on day 28, and the tissue samples were collected as mentioned above. HE staining and Masson staining were performed to observe the changes of lung tissues after PQ poisoning. Changes of TNF-α, IL-6 and TGF-β in plasma and BALF were measured by ELISA. Results In the acute phase, the pathological sections of lung tissues in the PQ group, WIN 1 mg group and WIN 2 mg group showed diffuse inflammation, which was improved after the intervention of WIN5522-2, especially in the WIN 1 mg group. IL-6 levels of BALF in the PQ group, WIN 1 mg group, WIN 2 mg group and the control group were (1024.77±124.74)U/L, (620.48±99.76)U/L, (823.29±157.88) U/L, and (180.42±20.22)U/L, respectively. IL-6 levels in the WIN 1 mg group and the WIN 2 mg group were statistically lower than those in the PQ group (P=0.021, P=0.016). However, no difference was found between the two intervention groups(P=0.114). The similar condition was also found in TNF-α in BALF and plasma. In the chronic phase, mice in the PQ group, WIN 1 mg group and WIN 2 mg group showed fibrosis in tissue by HE and Masson staining, and the inflammatory condition was improved after the intervention of WIN5522-2, which was more obvious in the WIN 1 mg group. In BALF, TNF-α level was (321.64±50.54)U/L, (260.23±48.19)U/L, (278.89±29.40)U/L, (89.76 ± 10.87)U/L in the PQ group, WIN 1 mg group, WIN 2 mg group and the control group. Differences were found between the WIN 1 mg group and the control group and the WIN 2 mg group. Similar differences were also observed in plasma TNF-α, but not in TGF-β. Conclusions A small dose of WIN55212-2 can improve the general condition of PQ poisoning mice, and reduce the inflammatory and fibrosis-related cytokines levels in PQ poisoning mice.

Effects of hypoxia and its downstream factor mirRNA-145 on differentiation of umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells into type II alveolar epithelial cells / 吉林大学学报(医学版)

Objective: To explore the influence of hypoxia and transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) on the differentiation of umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UCMSC) into the type II alverolar epithelial cells (AT II) and the regulatory effect of miR-145 in this process, and to illuminate the differentiation mechanism of UCMSC into AT II under the double stimulation of both hypoxia and TGF-β in the damaged lung tissue microenvironment. Methods: The UCMSC were isolated in vitro and co-cultured with human lung cancer cell line A549 to induce the differentiation of UCMSC into AT II. Cobaltous chloride (C0CI2) was used to mimic the hypoxia condition, and the induced cells were divided into normoxia group and hypoxia group. In hypoxia group, phase contrast microscope was used to observe the changes in cell morphology and flow cytometry was used to detect the percentage of AT II in the induced cells. qPCR and Western blotting methods were applied to test the expression levels of AT II specific genes, fibrosis-related genes and miR-145 in normoxia group and hypoxia group. In hypoxia group, the cells were divided into inh-145 group, inh-145 scramble group and control group, the expression levels of fibrosis-related genes in the cells in three groups were tested by qPCR and Western blotting methods. The pre-145 and pre-145 scramble were transfected into the 293T cells, and then the dual luciferase reporter gene system was used to check the relative luciferase unit (RLU) of TGF-βRII 37-UTR wild type and mutants. Results: In hypoxia group, the fibroblast-like UCMSC became flat and spindle, and finally showed a morphology of cobblestone-like epithelial cells 8 d later, and the percentage of the induced cells with high expression of AT II surface marker SpC was up to (94. 50 + 3. 37) %. The expression levels of specific genes of AT II (KGF, CK18, SpA, SpB and SpC) and miR-145 were obviously upregulated in hypoxia group compared with normoxia group (P<0.05). After stimulating the UCMSC-AT II differentiation with TGF-fil, the expression levels of fibrosis-related genes Col-I, TGF-βSR II and its downstream signaling factors p-Smad2 and p-Smad3 in hypoxia group were significantly down-regulated compared with normoxia group (P<0. 05). The expression levels of Col-I and TGF-βR II in inh-145 group were significantly raised compared with inh-145 scramble group and control group under hypoxia induction (P<0. 05). The RLU of TGF-βSRII 3'-UTR wild type was decreased after treated with pre-145 compared with TGF-βR II mutants (P< 0. 05). Conclusion: Hypoxia can promote the differentiation of UCMSC into the AT II and inhibit the TGF-β1-induced fibrosis. Its mechanism may be related to the inhibition of TGF-β1/TGFβR II signaling pathway through the down-regulation of TGF-βRII expression by hypoxia-induced miR-145.

Esclerosis sistémica cutánea difusa con fibrosis pulmonar

La Esclerosis Sistémica Cutánea Difusa (ESCD) es una enfermedad del tejido conectivo multisistémica que afecta la piel y órganos internos. La Enfermedad Pulmonar Intersticial (EIP) se presenta en un 70 a 80% de los casos y aproximadamente un cuarto presentan Fibrosis Pulmonar, lo que es muy raro en la edad pediátrica. La enfermedad pulmonar es una de las principales causas de muerte en los pacientes con Esclerosis Sistémica. Se presenta el caso de una paciente con Esclerosis Sistémica Cutánea Difusa asociada a Fibrosis Pulmonar. El diagnóstico y tratamiento temprano de esta entidad permite prolongar y mejorar la calidad de vida de estos pacientes

Diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis is a connective tissue disorder that involve skin and internal organs. Interstitial lung disease is present in 70 ­ 80% of all cases and approximately one quarter with lung fibrosis, that is no common in pediatric patients. Lung disease is one of the most important cause of death in patient with systemic sclerosis. A case of diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis with lung fibrosis is present.

Fibrosis pulmonar idiopática en un ecuatoriano adulto de la provincia de Riobamba / Idiopathic lung fibrosis in an adult Ecuadorian from Riobamba province

Se presenta el caso clínico de un paciente de 52 años, expuesto a las cenizas del volcán Tungurahua en erupción, quien acudió a la Consulta de Medicina Familiar Comunitaria del Cantón Guano, provincia ecuatoriana de Riobamba, por presentar cuadro de tos productiva en horario matutino, mucoide de coloración blanco amarillenta, toma del estado general, fiebre vespertina, pérdida de apetito y peso. Según los resultados radiográficos y tomográficos presentó signos sugestivos de tuberculosis pulmonar; los esputos BAAR directos y los cultivos negativos. Los hallazgos anatomopatológicos permitieron confirmar el diagnóstico de fibrosis pulmonar idiopática.

The case report of a 52 years patient is presented, exposed to the ashes of Tungurahua volcano in eruption, who went to the Community Family Medicine Department of the Canton Guano, Ecuadorian province of Riobamba, for presenting productive cough in the morning, mucoid of yellowish white coloration, bad general state, evening fever, appetite and weight loss. According to the radiographic and topographic results, he had suggestive signs of lung tuberculosis; direct BAAR sputa and negative cultures. The pathological findings allowed to confirm the diagnosis of idiopathic lung fibrosis.

Danazol-induced Acute Pulmonary Fibrosis in a Patient with Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura: Could Anti Fibrosant Therapy be Useful?.

Introduction: Danazol is frequently used in the treatment of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). Very occasionally are described in the elderly fatal respiratory complications related to this drug such as acute pulmonary fibrosis for which no treatment has proven to be effective. Presentation of Case: We describe a case of an old man with ITP treated with danazol who developed a pulmonary fibrosing disease not attributed to any other cause. Damaged lung reversed using an anti fibrosant therapy approved for other types of pulmonary fibrosing diseases. Discussion and Conclusion: Pulmonary fibrosing disease attributed to danazol is a condition refractory to systemic corticosteroids, but as shown in the present case, an anti fibrosant therapy has proven to be a useful alternative and could be recommended in the light of current knowledge.

Protective effect of astaxanthin against radiation-induced lung fibrosis in mice / 第二军医大学学报

Objective To evaluate the effect of astaxanthin against radiation-induced lung fibrosis in mouse model and to investigate the underlying mechanism. Methods A total of 60 female C57BL/6 mice were evenly randomized into control group, model group (IR) and astaxanthin-treated group (IR+AST). Mouse models of radiation-induced lung fibrosis were generated by thoracic irradiation with a single dose of 16 Gy. Mice in IR+AST group were orally administrated with astaxanthin (25 mg/kg) daily for 7 days both before and after irradiation. Then the mice were sacrificed at 1, 4, 8 and 16 weeks after radiation, and the lung samples were collected in each group for morphological observation. The severity of fibrosis was evaluated by Masson's trichrome after radiation. The oxidative stress was determined by malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) assay kit, the collagen deposition was measured by hydroxyproline (Hyp) assay kit, and the serum level of transforming growth factor-beta 1(TGF-β1) was measured by ELISA. Results Pathological staining results showed that the pulmonary fibrosis became more severe along with time increase after irradiation, and astaxanthin attenuated the fibrosis formation. Compared with irradiation model group, the MDA level in IR+AST group was significantly lower (P<0.05 or P<0.01) and SOD level was significantly higher (P<0.05 or P<0.01) at different time points. Radiation increased the serum TGF-β1 and Hyp content in lung tissue at 4, 8 and 16 weeks post irradiation, and astaxanthin significantly reduced TGF-β1 and Hyp contents (P<0.05 or P<0.01)). Conclusion Astaxanthin can effectively alleviate radiation-induced lung fibrosis (RILF), which is probably via inhibition of TGF-β1 expression and reduction of lipid peroxidation injury.

Effects of DNA methylation of thymocyte differentiation antigen-1 in beryllium sulfate induced human fetal lung fibroblast fibrosis / 中国职业医学

OBJECTIVE: The change of DNA methylation of thymocyte differentiation antigen-1( Thy-1) was observed in beryllium sulfate( Be SO4) stimulated human fetal lung fibroblast( MRC-5 cell) to explore the effects of Thy-1 in Be SO4 induced lung fibrosis. METHODS: MRC-5 cell culture in vitro model was used. The final concentrations of Be SO4were1. 0,10. 0 and 100. 0 μmol / L( low-,medium- and high-dose groups). The control was untreated. Other 2 intervention groups were the 5-azacytidine( AZC) intervention group( 10. 0 μmol / L of AZC and 10. 0 μmol / L Be SO4) and the trichostatin A( TSA) intervention group( 0. 5 μmol / L of TSA and 10. 0 μmol / L Be SO4). The cells were collected 24,48 and 72 hours after exposure. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction( PCR) was used to determine the relative expression of collagen typeⅠ( Col Ⅰ),collagen type Ⅲ( Col Ⅲ),α-smooth muscle actin( α-SMA) and Thy-1 mRNA.The nested landed methylation specific PCR was used to detect the Thy-1 DNA methylation level. RESULTS: At 24 hours,the relative expression level of Col Ⅲ mRNA in MRC-5 cells showed an increasing trend with increasing dose( P < 0. 05);at 48 and 72 hours,the relative expression levels of Col Ⅰ,Col Ⅲ and α-SMA mRNA in MRC-5 cells increased with the increasing dose( P < 0. 05). All these 3 indicators in MRC-5 cells of 3 dose groups increased with the increase of expose time( P < 0. 05). The relative expression level of Thy-1 mRNA in MRC-5 cells of all 3 dose groups were lower than that in control( P < 0. 05). The relative expression level of Thy-1 mRNA of the high-dose group was lower than that of the lowdose group( P < 0. 05). The Thy-1 DNA methylation levels in the medium- and high-dose groups were both higher than that of the control( P < 0. 05). The Thy-1 DNA methylation levels of the 3 dose groups increased with the increasing dose( P < 0. 05). The Thy-1 DNA methylation levels of MRC-5 cells in the 2 intervention groups were higher than that of the control( P < 0. 05),but there was no significant difference when compared with the medium-dose group( P > 0. 05).CONCLUSION: Be SO4 stimulation can induce the fibrosis of MRC-5 cells. In this process,the Thy-1 DNA methylation level increases,while the Thy-1 mRNA expression level decrease. Thy-1 DNA methylation might be one of the important mechanisms of lung fibrosis induced by Be SO4.

mTOR signaling pathway and bronchopulmonary dysplasia / 国际儿科学杂志

mTOR signaling pathway is a highly conserved intracellular signaling pathway,which partici-pates in several signaling pathways, such as PI3K/AKT/mTOR, AKT/TSC1-TSC2/Rheb/mTOR, LKB1-AMPK-TSC-mTOR and FGF-10-Spry2-mTORC1-STAT3/HIF-1α-VEGF-A. mTOR signaling implicate in the regulation of the development of lung and many pulmonary diseases in many aspects,may be connected to bron-chopulmonary dysplasia. Bronchopulmonary dysplasia is one of the very common chronic lung diseases in pre-term,physical and chemical factors have been shown to induce acute lung injury, aberrant wound healing and lung fibrosis in the immature lung. This review summarizes relationship of mTOR signaling among lung develop-ment,acute lung injury and lung fibrosis,to explore the role of mTOR signaling in the development of bronchop-ulmonary dysplasia,in hope of providing novel method in the prevention and treatment of bronchopulmonary dysplasia.