Research progress of nitrobenzoyl sesquiterpenoids as marine characteristic natural products / 药学学报

Sesquiterpenoids are widely found in nature, while nitrobenzoyl sesquiterpenoids are relatively rare. Twelve natural nitrobenzoyl sesquiterpenoids were all derived from marine Aspergillus fungi, which are typical natural products with marine characteristics. These natural products exhibit good antitumor, antiviral, and inhibition of osteoclast differentiation activity, especially in the treatment of osteoclast-related diseases, showing good medicinal development value. This article reviews the natural product sources, chemical structure, chemical synthesis, biosynthesis, bioactivity, and pharmacological mechanisms of nitrobenzoyl sesquiterpenoids and predicts and discusses their absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, toxicity (ADME/T), and drug-likeness, providing a comprehensive understanding of the natural products of nitrobenzoyl sesquiterpenoids from marine sources and their potential for pharmaceutical development.

Time-course changes of intraosseous environment and shear resistance mechanical properties of jawbone in SD rats with fluorosis / 环境与职业医学

Background At present, a large number of reports focus on the bones of limbs and trunk, while there are few studies on the effect of fluorosis on jawbone which is the inevitable structural basis for the development and treatment of oral diseases. Objective To preliminarily investigate the effect of fluoride exposure on the mechanical properties of jawbone by observing the changes in the intraosseous environment and the maximum load against shearing force (LSFmax) of the jawbone in rats with chronic fluoride treatment. Methods Screening experiment: 48 SD male rats were randomly divided into a control group and three fluoride exposure groups (50, 150, and 250 mg·L−1 fluoride concentration), 12 rats in each group. The fluoride exposure groups were molded by feeding different concentrations of sodium fluoride solution, and the control group drank tap water from Guizhou area. Each group was further divided into 4 subgroups with 3 animals each according to observation time points after 0, 2, 4, and 6 months. The LSFmax of the jawbone was measured with an electronic universal ergometer, the expression of type I collagen (Col1) was shown by Sirius red staining, and the expression of runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) was determined semi-quantitatively by immunohistochemistry at selected time points. Formal experiment: 12 male SD rats were randomly divided into a fluoride exposure group and a control group. The fluoride exposure group were fed with 150 mg·L−1 sodium fluoride solution, and the control group drank tap water from Guizhou. After feeding with fluoride for 5 months, the ergometer was used to measure the LSFmax of the jawbone. Osteoclasts were counted after tartrate resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining. Col1, Runx2, bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and cathepsin K (Cath K) were detected semi-quantitatively by immunohistochemistry expression and Sirius red staining. Micro computed tomography (Micro CT) was used to observe the trabecular bone microstructure. Results Screening experiment: The LSFmax of the control group and the 50 mg·L−1 fluoride exposure group reached the peak value at the 2nd month, and the LSFmax of the 50 mg·L−1 fluoride exposure group reached the valley value at the 4th month. The LSFmax of the 150 mg·L−1 fluoride exposure group at the 4th month was higher than that at the 6th month (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the LSFmax at each time point in the 250 mg·L−1 fluoride exposure group. At the same time point, there was no statistically significant difference in LSFmax among the groups. The Col1 levels of the 50 mg·L−1, 150 mg·L−1, and 250 mg·L−1 fluoride exposure groups were higher than the time point 0 from the 2nd month (P＜0.05). The Runx2 showed no statistically significant difference by concentration or time. Formal experiment: After feeding with 150 mg·L−1 fluoride for 5 months, the LSFmax of the fluoride exposure group was greater than that of the control group (P<0.05). The expressions of Col1, Runx2, BMP2, ALP, and Cath K in the fluorosis exposure group were higher than those in the control group (P<0.05). There were no statistically significant differences in osteoclast count or indicators of bone trabecular microstructure. Conclusion Chronic fluoride exposure may increase the shear strength of jaw bone.

Cordyceps sinensis extract protects against the ovariectomy-induced bone loss via the action on osteoclasts / 药学实践杂志

Objective To explore the effects of Cordyceps sinensis extract (CSE) on osteoporosis and RANKL-mediated osteoclastogenesis. Methods Bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMMs) was isolated from the bone marrow of C57BL/6 mice. CSE was added in osteoclast differentiation. Osteoclasts were stained by tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP). The nearly mature osteoclasts were planted on hydroxyapatite plates and the area of bone lacunae was observed by microscope. The F-actin belt was stained by DAPI and phylloeptide and the number of nuclei was observed by confocal microscopy. The expressions of DC-STAMP, ATP6V0D2, TRAP, CTSK, and NFATC1 were detected by q-PCR. The protein expression of the MAPK pathway was detected by Western Blot. The in vivo experiments were carried out by administering CSE to the ovariectomized mice daily through gavage. After 6 weeks of intervention, mouse femurs were taken for morphological analysis. Peripheral blood was taken for ELISA. Results CSE represses osteoclastogenesis, bone resorption, F-actin belts formation, osteoclast specific gene expressions and MAPK signaling pathways in vitro. In vivo study indicated that CSE prevents OVX-induced osteoporosis and preserves bone volume by repressing osteoclast activity and function. It also increases the serum ALP, BGP content, and reduces TRAP content. Conclusion CSE can attenuate osteoclast formation and OVX-induced osteoporosis, suggesting potential clinical therapeutic effects for osteoporosis.

Multiple idiopathic root resorption: a case report and literature review / 口腔疾病防治

Objective @#To explore the etiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis and treatment of multiple idiopathic root resorption to provide a reference for clinical diagnosis and treatment. @*Methods@# The clinical data of a case of multiple idiopathic root resorption were analyzed retrospectively, and the related literature was reviewed.@*Results@#The patient had no history of orthodontic correction, occlusal trauma, trauma history or other causes of root resorption. Clinical examination revealed full-mouth gingival congestion, redness, a loose texture, and variable degrees of destruction of the alveolar bone. Imaging examination showed that teeth 13, 16, 26, 36, 46 had idiopathic root resorption. The diagnoses were multiple idiopathic root resorption and periodontitis. The pathology tests showed that a large number of osteoclasts were present in the soft tissue surrounding the teeth. Whole-exome sequencing showed that there was a strong correlation between gene mutations (WNT7a and HSPG2) and the present phenotype. Root resorption of teeth without periodontitis was stopped after periodontal treatment during the 19-month follow-up. Tooth 13 was removed, and extraction socket preservation was performed. The etiology of idiopathic root resorption may be related to gene mutations, but it is not clear. At present, there is no effective treatment. @* Conclusion @#Multiple idiopathic root resorption has an unknown etiology, but it may be related to WNT7A and HSPG2 gene mutations. The rate of root resorption can be slowed by controlling periodontal inflammation.

Advances on pentraxin 3 in osteoporosis and fracture healing / 中国骨伤

Pentaxin 3 (PTX3), as a multifunctional glycoprotein, plays an important role in regulating inflammatory response, promoting tissue repair, inducing ectopic calcification and maintaining bone homeostasis. The effect of PTX3 on bone mineral density (BMD) may be affected by many factors. In PTX3 knockout mice and osteoporosis (OP) patients, the deletion of PTX3 will lead to decrease of BMD. In Korean community "Dong-gu study", it was found that plasma PTX3 was negatively correlated with BMD of femoral neck in male elderly patients. In terms of bone related cells, PTX3 plays an important role in maintaining the phenotype and function of osteoblasts (OB) in OP state;for osteoclast (OC), PTX3 in inflammatory state could stimulate nuclear factor κ receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) production and its combination with TNF-stimulated gene 6(TSG-6) could improve activity of osteoclasts and promote bone resorption;for mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), PTX3 could promote osteogenic differentiation of MSCs through PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. In recent years, the role of PTX3 as a new bone metabolism regulator in OP and fracture healing has been gradually concerned by scholars. In OP patients, PTX3 regulates bone mass mainly by promoting bone regeneration. In the process of fracture healing, PTX3 promotes fracture healing by coordinating bone regeneration and bone resorption to maintain bone homeostasis. In view of the above biological characteristics, PTX3 is expected to become a new target for the diagnosis and treatment of OP and other age-related bone diseases and fracture healing.

Osteoclast-mediated pain and collapse mechanisms in the femoral head necrosis with bone marrow edema / 西安交通大学学报(医学版)

【Objective】 To explore pain and collapse mechanisms in fosteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) with bone marrow edema (BME). 【Methods】 ONFH patients at ARCO Ⅲ stage who underwent total hip arthroplasty in the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine were enrolled; the femoral head samples, clinical and imaging data were collected. These patients were divided into BME group and non-BME group according to the MR data in one week preoperative. Hematoxylin-eosin and Sirius red staining were performed to observe the morphological changes in bone tissue of femoral head specimens. Western blotting and qPCR were used to semi-quantitatively analyze the expression levels of CTSK, RANKL, and Netrin-1 proteins and mRNA in different regions of the bone tissue. 【Results】 Clinical and imaging data showed that ONFH patients with BME had significantly higher scores of VAS than ONFH patients without BME. Hematoxylin-eosin staining showed that bone structure disorder and a large number of empty bone lacunae were found in the necrotic areas in both groups, but there exited significant granulation tissue in the BME group, and spindle-shaped fibroblastic cells and inflammatory cells aggregated in the repaired region. Sirius red staining revealed the necrotic and sclerotic areas were accumulated with many collagenous fiber in the BME group. The results of Western blotting and qPCR showed that Netrin-1 expressions in the necrotic, sclerotic and health areas in the BME group were higher than those in the non-BME group (P<0.05), while osteoclast related proteins and mRNA expressions of the necrotic and sclerotic areas in the BME group was higher than those in the non-BME group (P<0.05). 【Conclusion】 All these findings indicated that hip pain was positively correlated with femoral head necrosis with BME, hyperactive osteoclasts participated in the femoral head collapse with BME, and the upregulated expression of Netrin-1 mediated the pain mechanism.

Mechanism of Zhibai Dihuang decotion in treating postmenopausal osteoporosis / 药学学报

In this study, the ovarian surgery (ovariectomy, OVX) was used to establish the osteoporosis mice model of primary menstruation, in order to evaluate the protective effects and mechanisms of Zhibai Dihuang decotion on postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMOP). The animal experimental protocol has been reviewed and approved by Laboratory Animal Ethics Committee of Jinan University (number: 20210315-03), in compliance with the Institutional Animal Care Guidelines. C57BL/6 mice were divided into five groups, including Sham group, OVX group, low (32 g·kg-1·day-1) and high dose (64 g·kg-1·day-1) of Zhibai Dihuang decotion groups, positive drug group (alendronate, 9.9 mg·kg-1·q3d). After modeling, mice were given medication intervention for 8 weeks, and then femoral and tibial tissues were taken to detect indicators such as bone microstructure, bone resorption, and oxidative stress. The experimental results showed that after Zhibai Dihuang decotion administration, the bone microstructure damage caused by OVX surgery was alleviated, and the relevant parameters bone mineral density (BMD), bone volume/total volume (BV/TV), trabecular number (Tb. N) and connectivity density (Conn. D) both significantly increased. At the same time, the number of TRAP positive osteoclasts decreased significantly, and the levels of proteins and genes related to osteoclast differentiation decreased, indicating that Zhibai Dihuang decoction could inhibit the increased activity of osteoclast caused by OVX. Afterwards, network pharmacology was used to construct the active compound action target network of Zhibai Dihuang decotion, and it was found that the target genes of its active ingredients were closely related to the oxidative stress pathway. Finally, the detection results of oxidative stress levels in bone tissues showed that after treatment with Zhibai Dihuang decotion, the levels of oxidative stress products 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in bone tissues of mice significantly decreased, while the levels of antioxidant stress substance L-glutathione (GSH) increased. These above results indicated that Zhibai Dihuang decotion can regulate the level of oxidative stress in the body and inhibit osteoclast activity, which played a therapeutic role in PMOP, as well as provided theoretical basis for the prevention and treatment of PMOP with traditional Chinese medicine.

Mechanism of osteoclast stimulatory transmembrane protein promoting silicosis fibrosis by inducing ferroptosis / 环境与职业医学

Background Osteoclast stimulatory transmembrane protein (OC-STAMP) is involved in silicosis fibrosis induced by silicon oxide (SiO2) exposure. Its role in silicosis fibrosis by inducing ferroptosis of alveolar type II epithelial cells and its related mechanism remain unclear. Objective To explore the effect and possible mechanism of OC-STAMP on ferroptosis of alveolar type II epithelial cells and silicosis fibrosis in rats under SiO2 exposure. Methods Twenty male Wistar rats of SPF grade were randomly divided into two groups: control (Sham) group and SiO2 group, 15 rats in each group. Rats in the SiO2 group were given 1 mL of 50 mg·L−1 SiO2 suspension at one time through the non-exposed intratracheal instillation method to establish an animal model of silicosis, and rats in the Sham group were give 1 mL of 0.9% sodium chloride solution in the same way. Rats were sacrificed after 8 weeks. Samples of lung tissue were fixed in glutaraldehyde or paraformaldehyde for observing ultrastructure of mitochondria by transmission electron microscopy; HE, Masson, VG, and Prussian blue were used to observe changes in lung tissue structure and iron deposition. The expression level of OC-STAMP and the degree of lung fibrosis were evaluated by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. The expression level of OC-STAMP in rat lung tissue was detected and the transfection effect of OC-STAMP was verified by real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Overexpression (OCS group) and inhibition expression (SI-OC group) models were constructed by OC-STAMP plasmid and OC-STAMP small interfering RNA (siRNA) transfection to cultured MLE-12 cells, respectively. The relative expression levels of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11), and other proteins in lung tissue and MLE-12 were detected by Western blotting. Results The results of HE, Masson, and VG staining showed that the silicosis modeling was successful after 8 weeks of SiO2 exposure. The immunofluorescence results showed that OC-STAMP and ATP binding cassette subfamily A member 3 (ABCA3) co-localized in alveolar type II epithelium. The immunohistochemical results showed that the levels of OC-STAMP and collagen I in the SiO2 group were significantly higher than those in the Sham group (P<0.01). The RT-PCR results showed that the OC-STAMP mRNA in the lung tissue of the SiO2 group was significantly higher than that of the Sham group (P<0.01). The Prussian blue staining in the lung tissue of the SiO2 group showed positive brownish-yellow particles. Compared with the Sham group which showed normal mitochondrial structure, the mitochondrial structure was generally swollen and the mitochondrial cristae dissolved and disappeared in the SiO2 group by transmission electron microscope observation. The Western blotting results showed that the expression levels of SLC7A11 and GPX4 both decreased in the lung tissue of the SiO2 group (P<0.05, P<0.01), and the expression level of Vimentin increased (P<0.01). In the transfected MLE-12 cells, compared with the Sham group, the expression levels of SLC7A11 and GPX4 in the OCS group were significantly reduced (P<0.05, P<0.01). Conclusion OC-STAMP may affect the expression of proteins related to ferroptosis, and promote lung fibrosis induced by SiO2 exposure.

A new target for improving osteoporosis with eldecalcitol—Mini-modeling bone formation / 中华内分泌代谢杂志

As a basic anti-osteoporosis drug, active vitamin D mainly promotes intestinal absorption of calcium and phosphorus, inhibits the release of parathyroid hormone, and maintains normal blood calcium and phosphorus levels, thus ensuring bone health. Eldecalcitol(ED-71), a novel derivative of active vitamin D, was approved for clinical treatment of osteoporosis in Japan in 2011. Eldecalcitol not only improves intestinal calcium absorption and inhibits osteoclast differentiation, but also effectively promotes "mini-modeling" bone formation-focal bone formation that is independent of osteoclastic bone resorption, elevating trabecular continuity and increasing the thickness of weak trabeculae, thereby repairing the microinjury of bone tissue.

Myeloid-derived growth factor inhibits the inflammatory response and osteoclast differentiation of RAW264.7 cells / 中华内分泌代谢杂志

Objective:To investigate the effects of myeloid-derived growth factor(MYDGF) on inflammatory response and osteoclast differentiation of RAW264.7 cells.Methods:The RAW264.7 osteoclast precursor cells were cultured and treated with different concentrations of recombinant MYDGF protein(rMYDGF), and their cell viability was assessed using the MTT assay. RAW264.7 cells were induced with lipopolysaccharide(LPS) to induce inflammation, and the expression of inflammatory mediators and cell polarization were observed after intervention with rMYDGF. The RAW264.7 cells were induced for osteoclast differentiation using receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand(RANKL), and rMYDGF was added for intervention. Osteoclast differentiation was evaluated by tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase(TRAP) staining. The osteoclast resorption pits and the number of actin rings(F-actin rings) were observed under a microscope. Reverse transcription PCR was performed to detect the expression of activated T cell nuclear factor 1(Nfatc1), cathepsin K(CTSK), and c-Fos genes during osteoclast differentiation. The protein phosphorylation levels of nuclear factor-κB(NF-κB) signaling pathway proteins were detected using Western blotting.Results:MTT assay showed that rMYDGF did not significantly inhibit the viability of RAW264.7 cell when the concentration was lower than 100 ng/mL. Moreover, rMYDGF inhibited the expression levels of inflammatory factors and M1 cell polarization after LPS stimulation. Compared with the control group, the number and area of TRAP positive cells, the number and area of bone resorption pit were decreased in rMYDGF intervention group respectively, as well as the area of the F-actin ring was reduced and its shape was incomplete after rMYDGF intervention. Furthermore, rMYDGF reduced the expression levels of osteoclast-specific marker genes and inhibited the phosphorylation of NF-κB signaling pathway protein IκBα during osteoclast differentiation.Conclusion:MYDGF inhibits the inflammatory response and osteoclast differentiation of RAW264.7 cells.

Leukotriene B4 Loaded in Microspheres Inhibits Osteoclast Differentiation and Activation

Abstract To investigate osteoclast formation in vivo and if leukotriene B4 (LTB4) loaded in microspheres (MS) could be used as a therapeutical strategy to promote a sustained delivery of the mediator and prevent osteoclast differentiation. Methods: In vivo, apical periodontitis was induced in mice to investigate osteoclast differentiation and signaling in absence of 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO). In vitro, LTB4-MS were prepared using an oil-in-water emulsion solvent extraction-evaporation process. Characterization and efficiency of LTB4 encapsulation were investigated. J774A.1 macrophages were cultured in the presence of monocyte colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) and ligand for receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B (RANKL) and then stimulated with LTB4-MS. Cytotoxicity, in vitro MS-LTB4 uptake, osteoclast formation and gene expression were measured. Results: We found that 5-LO negatively regulates osteoclastic formation in vivo during apical periodontitis development. In vitro, LTB4-MS were up-taken by macrophages and were not cytotoxic to the cells. LTB4-MS inhibited osteoclast formation and the synthesis of osteoclastogenic genes Acp5, Mmp9, Calcr and Ctsk. LTB4-MS inhibited differentiation of macrophages into an osteoclastic phenotype and cell activation under M-CSF and RANKL stimulus.

Resumo O objetivo deste trabalho foi Investigar a formação de osteoclastos in vivo e se o leucotrieno B4 (LTB4) incorporado em microesferas (MS) poderia ser usado como estratégia terapêutica para promover uma entrega sustentada do mediador e prevenir a diferenciação dos osteoclastos. Métodos: In vivo, a periodontite apical foi induzida em camundongos para investigar a diferenciação e sinalização de osteoclastos na ausência de 5-lipoxigenase (5-LO). In vitro, LTB4-MS foi preparado usando um processo de evaporação e extração de solvente de emulsão de óleo em água. A caracterização e a eficiência do encapsulamento do LTB4 foram investigadas. Macrófagos J774A.1 foram cultivados na presença de fator estimulador de colônia de monócitos (M-CSF) e ligante para o receptor ativador do fator nuclear kappa B (RANKL) e, então, estimulados com LTB4-MS. Citotoxicidade, captação in vitro de MS-LTB4, formação de osteoclastos e expressão gênica foram avaliadas. Resultados: A via 5-LO regula negativamente a formação de osteoclastos in vivo durante o desenvolvimento da periodontite apical. In vitro, LTB4-MS foram fagocitadas pelos macrófagos e não foram citotóxicos para as células. LTB4-MS inibiu a formação de osteoclastos e a síntese dos genes pró-osteoclastogênicos Acp5, Mmp9, Calcr e Ctsk. Conclusões: LTB4-MS inibiu a diferenciação de macrófagos em um fenótipo osteoclástico e a ativação celular sob estímulo de M-CSF e RANKL.

The pivotal role of autophagy in bone cells:bone-related cell activity and bone metabolism / 中国组织工程研究

BACKGROUND:The importance of autophagy for maintaining cellular homeostasis and stress response has long been recognized.As a way for cells to selectively clear their damaged organelles to achieve the recycling of cellular components,autophagy has a pivotal role in bone metabolism.OBJECTIVE:To review the role and possible mechanisms of autophagy in regulating bone-related cell activity and function among bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells,osteoblasts,osteocytes,and osteoclasts.METHODS:PubMed was searched for studies related to autophagy using the keywords of "autophagy;bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells;osteoblasts;osteocytes;osteoclasts."RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:We finally included 84 papers.Autophagy plays an important role in bone metabolism.Autophagy is involved in maintaining the balance between mineralization and absorption,and then maintaining bone homeostasis.An appropriate autophagy inducer may also benefit bone remodeling.Abnormal autophagy can lead to disorders of bone balance,leading to diseases such as osteoporosis.We may prevent or treat bone-related diseases by regulating the level of autophagy as its function in maintaining the balance of mineralization and resorption in bone homeostasis.

Generation and phenotype of myeloid cell specific Clcn7-mutation osteopetrosis mouse model / 中华内分泌代谢杂志

Objective:To construct a myeloid cell specific Clcn7-G763R mutant mouse model and characterize its phenotype.Methods:A mouse conditional knocked in p. G763R mutation in Clcn7 gene was constructed and bred with LysM cre mice to obtain osteopetrosis mice with myeloid cell specific Clcn7-G763R mutation. The differences of bone mass in mice with different genotypes were analyzed using Micro CT and the changes of histology were observed with HE staining. Osteoclasts were cultured and the expression levels of osteoclasts differentiation and maturation-related genes were detected by real-time PCR. The functions of osteoclasts were examined through bone resorption assay.Results:The body weight of homozygous mutant mice at 4 weeks old was reduced compared with the wild type mice [(12.000±1.666)g vs(15.630±2.314)g, P=0.021], with shorter femur length [(1.160±0.096)cm vs (1.300±0.082)cm, P=0.037]. Micro CT showed that bone mineral density of homozygous mutant mice was remarkably increased at 4 weeks old [(0.753±0.002)g/cm 3vs(0.143±0.034)g/cm 3, P=0.003], while bone mineral density of heterozygous mutant mice increased significantly at 8 weeks old [(0.236±0.021)g/cm 3vs(0.180±0.020)g/cm 3, P=0.030]. HE staining revealed increased trabecula bone volume in the mutant mice, especially in homozygous mutant mice with narrow bone marrow cavity and wider hypertrophic zone of chondrocytes. There was no significant difference in the number of osteoclasts between wild type mice and heterozygous mice in vitro( P=0.358), while total area of osteoclasts increased in heterozygous mutant mice [(3.590×10 6±0.911×10 6)μm 2vs(1.352×10 6±0.260×10 6)μm 2, P=0.043]. Impaired function of resorption was unveiled by bone resorption assay. There were no significant differences in the expressions of osteoclast differentiation and maturity-related genes including NFATc1, c-fos, Ctsk, and Acp5 between the two groups. Conclusion:A myeloid cell specific Clcn7-G763R mutation mice with impaired osteoclasts and increased bone mass is successfully constructed.

Interleukin-1 alpha induces osteoclast activation and bone loss / 中国组织工程研究

BACKGROUND: Interleukin-1 is an important pro-inflammatory cytokine that has been documented in the regulation of bone inflammation and bone remodeling. A previous study has demonstrated that interleukin-1α can induce apoptosis while inhibiting osteoblast differentiation in MC3T3-E1 cells. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the role and mechanism of interleukin-1α on osteoclast activation and bone loss in mice. METHODS: (1) Cell test: RAW264.7 cells were either treated with interleukin-1α alone or with receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) for 1 and 4 days. Cell viability was tested by cell counting kit-8 assay. The number of multinuclear osteoclasts was detected by tartrate resistant acid phosphatase assay. The mRNA and protein levels of osteoclast-specific genes and genes related to nuclear factor-κB pathway and Wnt/β-catenin pathway were tested by real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR, immunofluorescence staining or western blot. Bone marrow-derived macrophages were either treated with interleukin-1α alone or with RANKL and macrophage colony-stimulating factor for 7 days. The number of multinuclear osteoclasts was detected by tartrate resistant acid phosphatase assay. The protein levels of osteoclast-specific genes were tested by western blot. (2) Animal test: Twenty-four male C57BL/6J mice (6-8 weeks old) were assigned into two groups at random: control group and test group. Mice were subsequently treated with interleukin-1α solution or PBS by intraperitoneal injection twice a week for 5 weeks. Bone tissues from the femurs were performed with micro-computed tomography analysis and hematoxylin-eosin staining, tartrate resistant acid phosphatase, and immunofluorescence analysis. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Cell test: Interleukin-1α alone significantly increased RAW264.7 cell proliferation, but stimulated cell differentiation into osteoclasts in combination with RANKL (P < 0.05). Interleukin-1α significantly increased the expression of osteoclast-related markers and the number of tartrate resistant acid phosphatase-positive multinuclear cells in RAW264.7 cells and bone marrow-derived macrophages in the existence of RANKL or RANKL+macrophage colony-stimulating factor (both P < 0.05). Interleukin-1α was found to significantly enhance the nuclear factor-κB and Wnt/beta-catenin signaling in RAW264.7 cells (P < 0.05). Blocking of nuclear factor-κB or Wnt3 signaling not only reversed the activation of nuclear factor-κB and Wnt3 signaling but also weakened the enhanced expression of osteoclast-specific genes induced by interleukin-1α in RAW264.7 cells (P < 0.05). Animal test: interleukin-1α induced bone loss in mice while also upregulating the expression of osteoclast-specific markers, RANK, TRAF6 and p65, and Wnt3 in vivo (P < 0.05). The findings indicate that interleukin-1α can induce osteoclast activation and bone loss by promoting the nuclear factor-κB and Wnt signaling pathways.

Effect of Jingangwan on p38 MAPK，JNK，and IL-1 Content in Osteoporosis Model Rats / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of Jingangwan on the expression of osteoclast， c-Jun N-terminal kinase（JNK）， p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase（p38 MAPK）， and interleukin-1（IL-1） in the osteoporosis model rats， explore the mechanism of Jingangwan in the treatment of osteoporosis， and determine the optimal dosing concentration of Jingangwan. MethodFifty-six rats of SPF grade were randomized into a blank group，a sham operation group，a model group， model group，high-， medium-， and low-dose Jingangwan groups （0.72， 0.36， 0.18 g·kg-1·d-1， ig），and an estradiol valerate group （0.009 g·kg-1·d-1， ig）， with eight rats in each group. The rats in the model group， the blank group， and the sham operation group received 3 mL of normal saline， respectively. Samples were collected 12 weeks after drug administration. The number of osteoclasts was observed by tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase （TRAP） staining. Serum levels of JNK， p38 MAPK， and IL-1 were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay （ELISA）. The mRNA expression levels of p38 MAPK and JNK were detected by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction （Real-time PCR）. ResultThe TRAP staining results showed that compared with the model group， the estradiol valerate group and the Jingangwan groups could inhibit the formation of osteoclasts to different degrees. As revealed by ELISA results， compared with the model group and the sham operation group， the model group showed increased serum levels of p38 MAPK， JNK， and IL-1 （P<0.01）， while compared with the model group， all the groups with drug intervention showed decreased levels of p38 MAPK， JNK， and IL-1 （P<0.01）. The serum levels of JNK and IL-1 in the high-dose Jingangwan group were lower than those in the estradiol valerate group （P<0.05）. Real-time PCR results showed that compared with the blank group， the model group showed increased relative mRNA expression of p38 MAPK and JNK in the thighbone （P<0.01）， while compared with the model group， all the groups with drug intervention showed decreased relative mRNA expression of p38 MAPK and JNK in the thighbone （P<0.01）. ConclusionJingangwan can inhibit the formation of osteoblasts，reduce the diameter of the bone marrow cavity，improve bone quality，suppress the production of inflammatory factors，affect the metabolism of the MAPK signaling pathway，and blunt p38 MAPK and JNK activities to inhibit the differentiation and proliferation of osteoblasts and regulate bone metabolism， thereby preventing osteoporosis. Therefore，Jingangwan may be of application value in maintaining bone health and treating osteoporosis.

Controlled release and cytobiology of recombinant human parathyroid hormone 1-34 mediated by hyaluronic acid thermo-sensitive hydrogels / 药学学报

The bone formation promoter recombinant human parathyroid hormone 1-34 [PTH (1-34)] has a short half-life and low bioavailability. In this study, we prepared a biodegradable and temperature-sensitive hyaluronic acid-poly-N-isopropyl acrylamide (AHA-g-PNIPAAm), and further investigated its effects of PTH (1-34) release and cell behavior as drug carrier. The structure of AHA-g-PNIPAAM was confirmed by hydrogen nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and infrared spectroscopy. Next, PTH (1-34) loaded thermo-sensitive hydrogels were prepared by physical swelling method and their stability was investigated. The morphology of hydrogel was observed by scanning electron microscope. The minimum critical transition temperature and drug release behavior of hydrogels were investigated by ultraviolet spectrophotometry. The tetrazolium-based colorimetric assay (MTT assay) was used to investigate the toxicity and proliferation effects of PTH (1-34)-loaded thermo-sensitive hydrogel on mouse mononuclear macrophage RAW264.7 and mouse precranial osteoblasts MC3T3-E1. The effect of PTH (1-34)-loaded thermo-sensitive hydrogel on the differentiation of RAW264.7 was investigated by the tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase assay. The results showed that the PTH (1-34)-loaded thermo-sensitive hydrogel prepared in this study displayed regular three-dimensional honeycomb structure, and had good stability, thermo-sensitivity and sustained and controlled release properties, which could promote the proliferation of MC3T3-E1 cells more effectively and inhibit the differentiation of RAW264.7 into osteoclasts.

Analysis of imaging characteristics of undifferentiated carcinoma with pancreatic osteoclast-like giant cell / 中华消化杂志

Objective:To investigate the imaging characteristics of computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of undifferentiated carcinoma with pancreatic osteoclast-like giant cell (UPC-OGC).Methods:From April 2015 to November 2019, at Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 11 pathologically confirmed UPC-OGC patients who received upper abdominal CT or MRI before surgery and with complete clinical and pathological data were retrospectively included. The imaging characteristics of CT and MRI were analyzed, which included lesion location, number, shape, size, boundary, plain scan and enhancement features, adjacent tissue invasion and metastasis. Independent sample t test was used for statistical analysis. Results:The tumor lesions of 11 patients with UPC-OGC were all single, and the maximum diameter of lesion was (4.84±2.96) cm (ranged from 2.00 to 12.80 cm). The lesions of 7 patients with UPC-OGC were located in the head of pancreas, 2 located in the body of pancreas, 1 located in the tail of pancreas and 1 located in the junction of body and tail of pancreas. The lesion shapes of 3 patients with UPC-OGC were round, and the lesion shapes of 8 patients were oval with lobulation. The lesion boundaries of 8 patients with UPC-OGC were clear and the lesion boundaries of 3 patients were unclear. Seven patients with UPC-OGC were examined by plain and enhanced CT scan. Plain CT scan showed that the density of solid area of the tumor was similar to that of normal pancreatic parenchyma ((37.14±6.10) HU vs. (43.14±4.55) HU), and the difference was not significant ( t=-2.85, P=0.097). Contrast-enhanced CT scan in arterial phase showed that the degree of enhancement in solid area of the tumor was weaker than that of normal pancreatic parenchyma ((67.29±12.79) HU vs. (90.43±9.81) HU), and the difference was statistical significant ( t=-4.10, P=0.004), while contrast-enhanced CT scan showed that in venous phase the solid area of the tumor continued to strengthen and the degree of enhancement was similar to that of normal pancreatic parenchyma ((84.71±15.30) HU vs. (79.57±10.73) HU), and the difference was not significant ( t=0.38, P=0.535). Both CT and MRI enhanced scans showed uneven enhancement of the lesions, the degree of enhancement of solid component in arterial phase was slightly weaker than that of normal pancreatic parenchyma and the marginal and internal separation were progressively enhanced, and the degree of enhancement in the venous phase and balanced phase was slightly higher than that of the normal pancreatic parenchyma or similar to that of the normal pancreas. Conclusions:The imaging of CT and MRI of UPC-OGC have certain characteristics, which are helpful for the diagnosis and identification of the disease.

Hueso: alteraciones relacionadas con obesidad / Bone: Obesity-Related Disorders

Resumen: El tejido óseo, anteriormente considerado como una estructura mecánica de soporte y movimiento, ha mostrado una participación importante en la homeostasis del organismo, incluyendo al metabolismo energético y el tejido adiposo. En la actualidad se considera un órgano endócrino que sintetiza moléculas reguladoras del metabolismo denominadas osteocinas. A su vez, el tejido adiposo, considerado como una glándula de secreción interna, ayuda a mantener la reserva energética del organismo y produce proteínas y moléculas como las adipocinas, algunas de las cuales afectan directamente al hueso. El análisis del ciclo resorción/formación ósea, muestra que la masa ósea es reflejo del balance entre ambas. Cuando se pierde este balance y hay reducción de la masa ósea con aumento de la fragilidad, aparece la osteoporosis lo que incrementa el riesgo de fractura. Una de cada 3 mujeres y 1 de cada 5 hombres mayores de 50 años presenta una fractura por osteoporosis. La interacción entre tejido adiposo y hueso está mediada por citocinas, osteocinas y adipocinas. La obesidad puede incidir en el hueso por varios mecanismos entre los cuales se encuentran los inflamatorios y los inducidos por citocinas derivadas de los adipocitos como la leptina y la adiponectina que pueden modificar el metabolismo óseo. Evidencias apoyan el efecto negativo de la obesidad sobre la salud del hueso, aunque estudios al respecto aún son contradictorios.

Abstract: The bone tissue, previously considered as a mechanical support for structure and movement, has shown an important participation in the homeostasis of the body, including energy metabolism and adipose tissue. Currently, it is considered an endocrine organ that synthesizes regulatory molecules of metabolism called osteokines. At the same time, the adipose tissue, considered as an internal secretion gland, helps to maintain the body energy and produces proteins and mol ecules such as adipokines, some of which affect the bone directly. The analysis of bone resorption/formation cycle shows that bone mass is a reflection of the balance between both. When this balance is lost and there is a reduction of bone mass with increased fragility, osteoporosis appears and increases the risk of fracture. One in three women and one in five men over 50 years old have a fracture due to osteoporosis. The interaction between adipose tissue and bone is mediated by cytokines, osteokines and adipokines. Obesity may affect the bone by several mechanisms, among which the inflammatory is included and those induced by cytokines secreted by adipocytes such as leptin and adiponectin which can modify bone metabolism. Evidence supports the negative effect of obesity on bone health, although studies about it are still contradictory.

Demethylbelamcandaquinone B from Marantodes pumilum var. alata (Blume) Kuntze inhibits osteoclast differentiation in RAW264.7 cells

Objective: To investigate the bone-resorbing effect of demethylbelamcandaquinone B (Dmcq B) extracted from Marantodes pumilum var. alata on osteoclast differentiation in RAW264.7 cells. Methods: RAW264.7 macrophages were differentiated using RANKL into osteoclast-like cells. Then, they were treated with 10 μg/mL Marantodes pumilum var. alata crude aqueous extract, 5 μg/ mL dichloromethane fraction, and 0.6 μg/mL Dmcq B and 0.06 μg/ mL estradiol. Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b (TRACP 5b) as an osteoclast phenotypic marker was determined by TRACP staining and TRACP 5b colometric assay, and bone-resorbing pits were examined. The gene expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6) was measured. Moreover, the protein expressions of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6) and estrogen receptors were evaluated. Results: Marantodes pumilum var. alata crude aqueous extract and Dmcq B inhibited RANKL-stimulated osteoclast differentiation as evidenced by size reduction of giant multinucleated osteoclast cells, decreased TRACP 5b activity as well as the subsiding of resorbed pit area compared with normal control. In addition, they reduced the gene and protein expressions of TNF-α and IL-6. Marantodes pumilum var. alata, Dmcq B, and estradiol treatments increased the protein expressions of estrogen receptors alpha and beta in osteoclasts. Conclusions: Marantodes pumilum var. alata and its active compound, Dmcq B can inhibit osteoclast differentiation.

Imaging features of undifferentiated pancreatic carcinoma with osteoclast-like giant cells / 中华胰腺病杂志

Objective:To investigate the imaging features of undifferentiated pancreatic carcinoma (UCOGCP) with osteoclast-like giant cells.Methods:CT and MRI data of 4 pathologically diagnosed UCOGCP patients admitted in the First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University from December 2014 to January 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. The tumor location, major length, shape, border, density or signal, capsule, calcification, hemorrhage, cystic degeneration, degree of enhancement, as well as the presence or absence of pancreatic duct dilatation, pancreatic parenchymal atrophy, peripheral vascular invasion, lymph node and organ metastasis were recorded.Results:Of 4 UCOGCP patients, 1 case had the mass located in head of pancreas, 2 cases in body of pancreas , and 1 in tail of pancreas. The length of tumor ranged from 3.3 cm to 13.0 cm, and the average was 8.8 cm.3 cases were round-like, and 1 was irregular; 2 tumors were well defined with capsules, 2 with unclear border. 4 cases showed solid-cystic masses, 3 of which had cystic separation. 4 cases showed heterogeneous low density on unenhanced CT, and 1 case had spotted calcification. The solid component of the mass was mild enhanced on enhanced CT, and partial solid component of the mass showed obvious enhancement in 2 cases. 2 cases showed mixed low signal on T 1WI, 1 of which had small patchy high signal indicating hemorrhage. 2 cases showed mixed high signal on T 2WI, and high signal on DWI. 2 cases had major pancreatic duct dilation. 1 case had pancreatic parenchyma atrophy. 1 case had descending duodenum invasion. 3 cases had peripheral vascular invasion, including portal vein, splenic artery, and splenic vein. 1 case had tumor thrombosis in the portal vein and splenic vein. 1 case was associated with pancreatogenous portal hypertension. Conclusions:The imaging features of UCOGCP showed a large solid-cystic mass with hemorrhage and calcification. The solid component of the mass was mild enhanced and the partially solid component was obviously enhanced. The combination of its imaging characteristics and clinical data can improve the accuracy of diagnosis.