Protective effect of loboob (a Persian traditional remedy) on sexual hormones, antioxidant activities and stereological changes of testis tissue on busulfan induced oligospermia in rats

Loboob as a traditional drug in Iranis known for its beneficial effects on busulfan-induced oligospermia. In this experimental study, protective effects of loboob (a Persian traditional remedy) on sexual hormones, antioxidant levels and stereological changes of testis tissue were evaluated in an oligospermia rat model induced by busulfan. Fifty male rats were randomly divided into five different groups: control, received no treatments; and the other groups administrated with a single dose of busulfan (10 mg/kg body weight). After 30 days, these groups were treated with 0, 35, 70 or 140 mg/kg/day of loboob for 60 days. Blood samples were collected for hormone and antioxidant enzyme assays. Unbiased stereology was performed on testis tissues to evaluate the volume of different parts of the testis and the number of various testis cells. Data indicated that FSH, LH and MDA were increased, and testosterone, catalase, SOD were decreased in the busulfan group, while treatment with loboob at 70 and 140 mg/kg significantly improved these parameters (P <0.05). Treatment with 70 and 140 mg/kg of loboob ameliorated the germinal epithelium volume, types A and B spermatogonia, spermatocytes, elongated and round spermatids, and Sertoli cells in the seminiferous tubules (P <0.05). High concentration of loboob also improved testis weight and volume, and leydig cell number (P <0.05). Thus, loboob is more effective for the recovery of seminiferous tubules and their cells than for the interstitial tissue. Loboob with various antioxidants, minerals and vitamins could overcome the side effects of busulfan.

NR4A1 suppresses cisplatin-induced ferroptosis in renal proximal tubular epithelial cells by up-regulating the expression of NRF2 / 中华肾脏病杂志

Objective:To explore the role and mechanism of nuclear receptor subfamily 4 group A member 1 ( NR4A1) in suppressing cisplatin nephrotoxicity. Methods:The expression of NR4A1 gene in renal cell subpopulations was analyzed using the "Tabula-muris" single cell transcriptome sequencing database. NR4A1 gene was over-expressed by lentivirus infection in HK-2 cell line and primary renal proximal tubular epithelial cells. Cell counting kit-8 was used to detect the cytotoxicity of cisplatin. The cell death ratio was analyzed using propidium iodide (PI) staining by flow cytometry. The expression of NR4A1 and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 ( NRF2) was detected by real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR and Western blotting. Ferroptosis was analyzed by detecting the contents of malondialdehyde (MDA), oxidized glutathione (GSSG) and lipid reactive oxygen species (ROS). Results:The single cell transcriptome sequencing database showed that NR4A1 gene was the lowest expression in renal proximal tubular epithelial cell subsets. Cisplatin (50 μmol/L or 100 μmol/L) could significantly induce MDA, GSSG and lipid ROS production in renal proximal tubular epithelial cells (all P<0.01), and higher cisplatin concentration accompanied with a more increase of MDA, GSSG and lipid ROS. Compared with the control HK-2 cells, the lipid ROS content and iron ion content of HK-2 cells over-expressing NR4A1 were significantly lower (all P<0.01), and the over-expression of NR4A1 inhibited cisplatin-induced cytotoxicity and ferroptosis in renal proximal tubular epithelial cells. Mechanistically, NR4A1 up-regulated the expression of anti-ferroptosis gene NRF2 in proximal renal tubular epithelial cells ( P<0.01). Furthermore, single cell data analysis showed that, similar to the expression of NR4A1 in renal tissue subsets, NRF2 was also the lowest in renal proximal tubular epithelial cells. Conclusions:Cisplatin can induce ferroptosis of renal proximal tubular epithelial cells in a dose-dependent manner. NR4A1 can inhibit cisplatin-induced ferroptosis by up-regulating NRF2 in renal proximal tubular epithelial cells, thereby alleviating the cytotoxicity of cisplatin.

Protective effect and mechanism of arbutin on cisplatin-induced renal tubular epithelial cell injury / 中华肾脏病杂志

The aim of this study was to elucidate the protective effect of arbutin on cisplatin (Cis) induced renal tubular epithelial cell injury and its mechanism. Cell counting kit-8 was used to detect the viability of renal tubular epithelial cells. The toxicity of arbutin on renal tubular epithelial cells at different concentrations and the appropriate concentration of arbutin to protect cells against cisplatin were observed. The renal tubular epithelial cells were divided into control group, arbutin group, Cis group and arbutin+Cis group. Flow cytometry, quantitative real-time PCR and Western blotting were used to detect the levels of apoptosis and inflammation. The results showed that arbutin had no significant toxic effect on renal tubular epithelial cells in the mentioned concentration range (0-200 μmol/L). When the concentration of arbutin exceeded 100 μmol/L, it showed a protective effect on renal tubular epithelial cells. Arbutin intervention significantly reduced cisplatin-induced apoptosis of renal tubular epithelial cells and the increase of inflammation-related molecules p-p65 and interleukin-18. In addition, arbutin intervention reversed the cisplatin-induced reduction of Bcl-2 in renal tubular epithelial cells. These findings suggest that arbutin can attenuate cisplatin-induced renal tubular epithelial cell injury through anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory responses, which may be expected to be a new potential therapeutic drug for acute kidney injury.

Antibacterial effect of low-temperature plasma on Enterococcus faecalis in dentinal tubules in vitro / 北京大学学报(医学版)

OBJECTIVE@#To construct a model of Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) infection in dentinal tubules by gradient centrifugation and to evaluate the antibacterial effect of low-temperature plasma on E. faecalis in dentinal tubules.@*METHODS@#Standard dentin blocks of 4 mm×4 mm×2 mm size were prepared from single root canal isolated teeth without caries, placed in the E. faecalis bacterial solution, centrifuged in gradient and incubated for 24 h to establish the model of dentinal tubule infection with E. faecalis. The twenty dentin blocks of were divided into five groups, low-temperature plasma jet treatment for 0, 5 and 10 min, calcium hydroxide paste sealing for 7 d and 2% chlorhexidine gel sealing for 7 d. Scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscope were used to assess the infection in the dentinal tubules and the antibacterial effect of low-temperature plasma.@*RESULTS@#The results of scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy showed that after 24 h of incubation by gradient centrifugation, E. faecalis could fully enter the dentinal tubules to a depth of more than 600μm indicating that this method was time-saving and efficient and could successfully construct a model of E. faecalis infection in dentinal tubules. Low-temperature plasma could enter the dentinal tubules and play a role, the structure of E. faecalis was still intact after 5 min of low-temperature plasma treatment, with no obvious damage, and after 10 min of low-temperature plasma treatment, the surface morphology of E. faecalis was crumpled and deformed, the cell wall was seriously collapsed, and the normal physiological morphology was damaged indicating that the majority of E. faecalis was killed in the dentinal tubules. The antibacterial effect of low-temperature plasma treatment for 10 min exceeded that of the calcium hydroxide paste sealing for 7 d and the 2% chlorhexidine gel sealing for 7 d. These two chemicals had difficulty entering deep into the dentinal tubules, and therefore only had a few of antibacterial effect on the bacterial biofilm on the root canal wall, and there was also no significant damage to the E. faecalis bacterial structure.@*CONCLUSION@#Gradient centrifugation could establish the model of E. faecalis dentin infection successfully. Low-temperature plasma treatment for 10 min could kill E. faecalis in dentinal tubules effectively, which is superior to the calcium hydroxide paste sealing for 7 d and the 2% chlorhexidine gel sealing for 7 d.

Polymyxin Acute Kidney Injury: a case of severe tubulopathy / Nefropatia por polimixina B: a tubulopatia pode ser muito séria!

Abstract Polymyxins are antibiotics developed in the 1950s. Polymyxin-induced neurotoxicity has been often described in medical literature. The same cannot be said of nephrotoxicity or tubulopathy in particular. This report describes the case of a patient prescribed polymyxin B to treat a surgical wound infection, which led to significant increases in fractional excretion of calcium, magnesium, and potassium and subsequent persistent decreases in the levels of these ions, with serious consequences for the patient. Severe hypocalcemia, hypomagnesemia, and hypokalemia may occur during treatment with polymyxin. Calcium, magnesium and potassium serum levels must be monitored during treatment to prevent life-threatening conditions.

Resumo Polimixinas são um grupo de antibióticos desenvolvidos na década de 1950. Seus efeitos neurotóxicos são comumente descritos na literatura, porém há menos relatos sobre seus efeitos nefrotóxicos, especialmente tubulopatias. O objetivo deste relato é descrever o uso de polimixina B em uma paciente para tratamento de infecção de ferida operatória, promovendo grande aumento das frações de excreção de cálcio, magnésio e potássio e acarretando reduções graves e persistentes desses íons, com sérias consequências para a paciente. Hipocalcemia, hipomagnesemia e hipocalemia severas podem ocorrer durante terapia com polimixina e é sugerido que sejam monitorizadas as concentrações séricas desses eletrólitos durante o tratamento como forma de evitar condições de risco à vida.

Glycosuria in primary glomerulopathies: prevalence and prognostic significance / Glicosúria nas doenças glomerulares primárias: prevalência e significância prognóstica

Abstract Introduction: Tubular damage is common in glomerular diseases (GD). Glycosuria is a marker of tubular dysfunction and may be used to detect tubular lesion and CKD progression. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and prognostic value of glycosuria at the time of diagnosis in primary glomerulopathies (PG). Methods: We conducted a 24-month retrospective study in patients diagnosed with PG in our center between 2009 and 2020. We excluded diabetic patients, use of SGLT2 inhibitors, transplant patients, and secondary GD. Patients were divided in two groups according to their glycosuria status at diagnosis. Results: We studied 115 patients. Global prevalence of glycosuria was 10% (n=11) and membranous nephropathy (MN) had the highest prevalence (n=5, 17.9%). We found that patients with glycosuria had higher serum creatinine (2.4 vs. 1.2 mg/dL, p=0.030), higher albuminuria (4.8 vs. 1.9 g/g, p=0.004), and lower serum albumin (2.3 vs. 3.2 g/dL, p=0.021). We did not find association with histological prognostic factors. At the end of follow-up, patients with glycosuria had higher prevalence of the composite outcome of stage 5D CKD or 50% increase in basal SCr (45.5% vs. 17.3%, p=0.037). In patients with MN, results were similar but we were able to find an association of glycosuria with more severe interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy (25.0 vs. 0.0 %, p=0.032). Conclusion: Ten percent of our patients with PG have glycosuria. Glycosuria at the time of diagnosis was associated with more severe clinical presentation and worst renal outcome. The association with higher albuminuria suggests that tubular function has an impact on the severity and outcomes of PG.

Resumo Introdução: Danos tubulares são comuns em doenças glomerulares (DG). Glicosúria é um marcador de disfunção tubular e pode detectar lesão tubular e progressão da DRC. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a prevalência e o valor prognóstico da glicosúria no diagnóstico em glomerulopatias primárias (GP). Métodos: Realizamos estudo retrospectivo de 24 meses em pacientes diagnosticados com GP em nosso centro entre 2009-2020. Excluímos pacientes diabéticos, uso de inibidores de SGLT2, pacientes transplantados e DG secundárias. Os pacientes dividiram-se em dois grupos de acordo com seu estado de glicosúria no diagnóstico. Resultados: Estudamos 115 pacientes. A prevalência global de glicosúria foi de 10% (n=11) e a nefropatia membranosa (NM) teve maior prevalência (n=5, 17,9%). Constatamos que pacientes com glicosúria apresentavam creatinina sérica mais elevada (2,4 vs. 1,2 mg/dL, p=0,030), albuminúria mais alta (4,8 vs. 1,9 g/g, p=0,004), e albumina sérica mais baixa (2,3 vs. 3,2 g/dL, p=0,021). Não encontramos associação com fatores prognósticos histológicos. Ao final do acompanhamento, pacientes com glicosúria tiveram maior prevalência do desfecho composto de DRC estágio 5D ou aumento de 50% na CrS basal (45,5% vs. 17,3%, p=0,037). Em pacientes com NM, os resultados foram semelhantes, mas encontramos uma associação de glicosúria com fibrose intersticial mais grave e atrofia tubular (25,0 vs. 0,0 %, p=0,032). Conclusão: 10% de nossos pacientes com GP têm glicosúria. A glicosúria no diagnóstico foi associada a uma apresentação clínica mais grave e pior desfecho renal. A associação com albuminúria mais elevada sugere que a função tubular tem um impacto na gravidade e nos desfechos da GP.

Effect of dopamine pretreatment on root canal bonding with AH-plus sealer / 口腔疾病防治

Objective@# To observe the effect of dopamine pretreatment of the root canal on improving the bonding performance of AH-plus sealer.@*Methods @# A total of 32 freshly isolated permanent teeth with a single canal were collected, with no caries, no fracture of roots, and a root canal curvature<10°. All sample root canals were prepared to F2 with ProTaper rotating nickel-titanium instruments and then treated with 1 mg/mL, 2 mg/mL, or 3 mg/mL dopamine solution for 24 hours and divided into 4 groups (n = 8): 0 mg/mL dopamine group (blank control group), 1 mg/mL dopamine group, 2 mg/mL dopamine group, and 3 mg/mL dopamine group. Scanning electron microscopy was used to observe the combination of dopamine and root canal dentin wall; laser confocal scanning microscopy was used to observe the penetration of AH-plus sealer; and root canal filling was performed with AH-plus sealer and gutta-percha tip using the cold gutta-percha lateral pressure technique. The root canal samples were cut horizontally at the middle and the apical third sections of the root with a slice thickness of 1-2 mm. The push-out test was carried out under an Instron universal testing machine to compare the push-out bonding strength between each group. @*Results @#Scanning electron microscopy showed that most of the dentinal tubules were open in the control group after 0 mg/mL dopamine solution treatment for 24 hours. In the 1 mg/mL group, a small number of dopamine particles on the surface of the dentin tubules in the inner wall of the root canal were loose and unevenly distributed. In the 2 mg/mL group, most of the dentinal tubules were covered by dopamine particles, and the dopamine layer was uniform and dense. In the 3 mg/mL group, a large number of dopamine particles were deposited at the mouth of the dentinal tubules, but the distribution was uneven. Dopamine and AH-plus sealer can be seen to simultaneously infiltrate into dentinal tubules under a confocal laser scanning microscope. The interaction of the two factors, the anatomical location and dopamine concentration, had no significant effects on the bonding strength of AH-plus sealer (P>0.05). Root canals treated with 2 mg/mL dopamine had the highest bonding strength in all groups (P<0.05). Analysis of the push-out test of bonding strength with AH-plus sealer at different anatomical locations showed significant differences (P<0.05). The push-out bonding strength of the AH-plus sealer in the middle third section of the root was higher than that in the apical third section of the root.@*Conclusion@# Different dopamine concentrations could affect the bonding strength of AH-plus sealer in root canals. When treated with 2 mg/mL dopamine for 24 hours, the bonding effect of AH-plus sealer in root canals was improved.

The mechanism of ischemic preconditioning renal tubular cell-derived exosomes in the repair of renal ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats / 中国医师杂志

Objective:Clamping bilateral renal arteries with refined surgical methods to establish the rat renal ischemia-reperfusion injury (RIRI) model, and study the protective mechanism of ischemic preconditioning renal (IPC) tubular cell-derived exosomes in RIRI.Methods:25 female Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were divided into sham group, model group, inactivated group, normoxic group, IPC group. In the sham operation group, after bilateral renal arteries were dissociated, the back incision was disinfected and closed. The model group established RIRI model; RIRI models were established in inactivated group, normoxia group and IPC group, and then 200 μg of inactivated exosomes, normal exosomes and IPC exosomes were injected into the caudal vein 24 hours after operation. Serum creatinine (Scr) and urea nitrogen (BUN) levels were detected. The pathological changes of renal tissue were observed under light microscope. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to observe the shape and size of renal tubular exosomes. Nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA)was used to detect the concentration and size of renal tubular exosomes.Results:Compared with the sham group, the Scr and BUN levels in the model group were significantly elevated ( P<0.01). Renal pathological changes in the model group showed damaged of the tubular structure, necrosis and shedding of tubular epithelial cells, and a large number of inflammatory cells accumulated in the renal interstitial tissue with varying degrees of edema. Compared with the inactivated group, the Scr and BUN levels significantly decreased in the normoxic group and IPC group ( P<0.01). Renal pathological changes in the normoxic group and IPC group showed that the renal tubular cell necrosis alleviated, inflammatory was reduced, the improved edema. Compared with the normoxic group, the Scr and BUN levels in the IPC group were further reduced ( P<0.01). Renal pathological changes in the IPC group showed that the inflammatory cells were significantly reduced, the cell edema was significantly improved, and the cell apoptosis was significantly reduced. Conclusions:Clamping bilateral renal arteries with refined surgical methods is the main and optimal way to build a rat model of RIRI. IPC tubular cell-derived exosomes have protective and repair effects on RIRI.

Klotho promotes high-glucose-mediated autophagy of human renal tubule cells / 中国医师杂志

Objective:To investigate the effects of Klotho on autophagy of human renal tubule cells under high glucose through AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK) pathways.Methods:Human renal tubular epithelial cells cultured in vitro were divided into control group and high glucose group (HG group, added with 30 mmol/L glucose); According to the transfection of pcDNA3.1-vector or pcDNA3.1-Klotho, they were divided into two groups: Vector group and Klotho group; According to whether AMPK inhibitor compound C or ERK inhibitor curcumin was added after pcDNA3.1-Klotho transfection and high glucose stimulation, they were divided into four groups: HG+ Vector group, HG+ Klotho group, HG+ Klotho+ compound C group and HG+ Klotho+ curcumin group. The expression of Klotho was detected by real-time fluorescent quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blot; The relative expression of LC3-Ⅱ/LC3-Ⅰ and p-AMPK/AMPK and p-ERK/ERK were detected by Western blot; Changes of autophagosome in human renal tubular epithelial cells observed by transmission electron microscope. Results:The protein and mRNA expression of Klotho in human renal tubular epithelial cells of HG group was significantly lower than that in the control group (all P<0.05); The LC3-Ⅱ/LC3-Ⅰ in Klotho group was significantly higher than that in Vector group ( P<0.05); The number of autophagosomes in Klotho group was also significantly higher than that in Vector group ( P<0.05); p-AMPK/AMPK in Klotho group was significantly higher than that in Vector group ( P<0.05), while p-ERK/ERK in Klotho group was significantly lower than that in Vector group ( P<0.05). The protein relative expression of p-AMPK/AMPK in HG+ Klotho+ compound C group (0.44±0.04) was significantly lower than that in HG+ Klotho group (0.79±0.08) ( P<0.01); The protein relative expression of p-ERK/ERK in HG+ Klotho+ curcumin group (1.05±0.12) was significantly higher than that in HG+ Klotho group (0.56±0.05) ( P<0.01). The relative expression of LC3-Ⅱ/LC3-Ⅰ protein in HG+ Klotho+ compound C group and HG+ Klotho+ curcumin group (0.79±0.12; 0.68±0.09) were significantly lower than that in HG+ Klotho group (1.65±0.20) (all P<0.01). Conclusions:Klotho can enhance autophagy of human renal tubular epithelial cells under high glucose condition by activating AMPK and inhibiting ERK pathway.

Morphometry: assessing direct and indirect methods of measuring the diameters of tubular structures / Morfometría: evaluación de métodos directos e indirectos para medir los diámetros de las estructuras tubulares

SUMMARY: Knowledge of the diameter of a structure or particle is required for stereological calculations. However, there is no consensus on the methodology for its measurement. This study aims to assess the differences between direct and indirect methods of measuring diameter. It is hypothesised that kidneys were removed, fixed, processed, sectioned, and stained. The stained slides were imaged using a digital microscope. The images were processed using the ImageJ software. The diameters of the renal glomeruli and collecting tubules were measured using direct and indirect methods. The measured diameters were analysed using the SPSS software v20. The differences between the measurements were assessed using a Z-test and test of association, and P < 0.05 was considered significant. No significant differences were observed between the diameters of the glomeruli (P = 0.82) and proximal (P = 0.86) and distal (P = 0.55) convoluted tubules as measured via direct and indirect methods. There was a strong positive correlation between the diameters of glomeruli (P = 0.97) and proximal (P = 0.82) and distal (P = 0.93) convoluted tubules measured using the two methods, both of which are convenient, accurate and suitable. The P-values based on these measurements were more than 0.05. Therefore, the study hypothesis was rejected. There was no significant difference between the direct and indirect methods of measuring diameter, and the null hypothesis was rejected; thus, both methods can be applied either independently or jointly.

RESUMEN: Se requiere el conocimiento del diámetro de una estructura o partícula para los cálculos estereológicos. Sin embargo, no existe consenso sobre la metodología para su medición. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo evaluar las diferencias entre los métodos directos e indirectos de medición del diámetro de una estructura. Riñones de ratas Wistar fueron extirpados, fijados, procesados y seccionados, y luego se tiñeron con HE. Se tomaron imágenes de las muestras teñidas usando un microscopio digital. Las imágenes fueron procesadas utilizando el software ImageJ. Los diámetros de los glomérulos renales y túbulos colectores se midieron por métodos directos e indirectos. Los diámetros medidos se analizaron utilizando el software SPSS v20. Las diferencias entre las medidas se evaluaron mediante una prueba Z y una prueba de asociación, y se consideró significativa P < 0,05. No se observaron diferencias significativas entre los diámetros de los glomérulos (P = 0,82) y túbulos contorneados proximales (P = 0,86) y distales (P = 0,55) medidos mediante métodos directos e indirectos. Hubo una fuerte correlación positiva entre los diámetros de los glomérulos (P = 0,97) y los túbulos contorneados proximales (P = 0,82) y distales (P = 0,93) medidos con los dos métodos, ambos convenientes, precisos y adecuados. Los valores P basados en estas mediciones fueron superiores a 0,05. Por lo tanto, se rechazó la hipótesis del estudio. No hubo diferencia significativa entre los métodos directo e indirecto de medición del diámetro, y se rechazó la hipótesis nula; por lo tanto, ambos métodos se pueden aplicar de forma independiente o conjunta.

Evaluation of sonic, ultrasonic, and laser irrigation activation systems to eliminate bacteria from the dentinal tubules of the root canal system

Abstract Aiming to kill bacteria in dentin tubules of infected dental pulp cavities, we evaluated the effects of sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) solution agitated by different irrigation protocols, i.e., conventional needle irrigation (CNI), passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI), the EDDY tip, and the neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum perovskite (Nd:YAP) laser. The EDDY achieved good antibacterial effects as passive ultrasonic irrigation in the coronal and middle thirds. Nd:YAP laser irradiation and PUI were effective in the apical third of the root canal. Objectives: To evaluate the ability of NaOCl agitated by high-frequency sonic irrigation-EDDY, PUI, and Nd:YAP laser-to kill bacteria in infected root canal walls and if the associated temperature increases at the root surface during application. Methodology: Infected root canal models were established, and roots were randomly divided into six groups: negative control, positive control, CNI, PUI, sonic agitation with EDDY, and Nd:YAP laser groups. After irrigation, the teeth were split and stained using the LIVE/DEAD BacLight Bacterial Viability Kit. Dead bacteria depth was evaluated by a confocal laser scanning microscopy and the temperature at the root surface was assessed using a thermal imaging camera during the irrigation process. Results: In the coronal and middle thirds of the root canal, PUI and EDDY had stronger antibacterial effects than CNI (p<0.05); in the apical third, the antibacterial effects of PUI and Nd:YAP laser-activated irrigation were better than CNI (p<0.05). The maximum change in temperature was significantly greater during continuous Nd:YAP laser application compared with the other methods, but intermittent irrigation helped lessening this trend. Conclusions: NaOCl agitated by EDDY tip and PUI exhibited a similar bacteria elimination effect in the coronal and middle root canal. Nd:YAP laser was effective in the apical third and intermittent irrigation reduced its thermal impact.

Caracterización microscópica de la dentina de dientes temporales / Microscopic characterization of the dentin of temporary teeth

La dentina se compone de un mineral de fosfato de calcio identificado como dahllita, que se dispone en pequeños cristales de hidroxiapatita carbonatada con dimensiones de 36 × 25 × 4 nm, y por una fase orgánica cuyo principal componente es el colágeno tipo 1 en 90%, que se orienta en forma de malla. Esta conformación corresponde a los dientes permanentes. Dentro de las estructuras, encontramos túbulos dentinarios que miden, aproximadamente, entre 0.5-1 µm de diámetro en la periferia y hasta 3-5 µm cerca de la pulpa. En el presente estudio, realizado en dentina de dientes temporales, el lumen de dichos túbulos es más grande cuando se encuentra cerca de la pulpa dental. Asimismo, se encontraron cambios elementales importantes de acuerdo con las diferentes profundidades en las que se observó, encontrando un aumento en el peso porcentual de carbono cuando se encuentra a mayor profundidad, lo que indica una composición orgánica mayor en la dentina pulpar. En estudios de dientes permanentes esta composición es disminuida y con mayor concentración en la dentina cercana a la unión amelodentinaria. En dentina de dientes temporales se encontraron diferencias en el recuento de túbulos dentinarios por mm2, comparado a la dentina de dientes permanentes, donde el número de túbulos no varía mucho (AU)

Dentin is composed of a calcium phosphate mineral identified as dahllite, which is arranged in small crystals of carbonated hydroxyapatite with dimensions of 36 × 25 × 4 nm, and by an organic phase whose main component is type l collagen in 90%, which is oriented in the form of a mesh. This conformation corresponds to permanent teeth. Within the structures, we find dentin tubules that measure approximately 0.5-1 µm in diameter at the periphery and up to 3-5 µm near the pulp. In the present study, carried out in dentin of primary teeth, the lumen of these tubules is larger when it is close to the dental pulp. Likewise, important elemental changes were found according to the different depths in which it was observed, finding an increase in the percentage weight of carbon when it is at a greater depth, indicating a greater organic composition in the pulp dentin. In studies of permanent teeth, this composition is decreased and with a higher concentration in the dentin near the amelodentinal junction. In dentin of primary teeth, differences were found in the count of dentin tubules per mm2, compared to dentin of permanent teeth, where the number of tubules did not vary much (AU)

Gonadal differentiation during embryonic and fetal development of male New Zealand rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) / Diferenciación gonadal durante el desarrollo embrionario y fetal de conejos machos neozelandeses (Oryctolagus cuniculus)

SUMMARY: The rabbit is considered an ideal animal model for studies that describe abnormalities in the testicles due to the similar morphogenetic mechanisms of sexual development and diseases commonly found in humans. The aim of this study was to determine the male sexual differentiation of the New Zealand rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) through development. The gestational age was estimated and classified as 9, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 23 and 28 gestational days. The morphological and sexual determination were performed by histological analysis of the reproductive tract in the embryos and fetuses (9-28 days) as well as by immunohistochemistry- Desert hedgehog-Dhh- (testis-specific protein on Y chromosome- 16, 20, 23 days and adult rabbits). Gonads were observed from the 14th day in an undifferentiated stage and with homogeneous aspect. Sexual differentiation was observed from the 16th day with presence of cells forming gonadal cords and Dhh+ cells in the gonadal parenchyma. From the 18th gestational day testicular cords were observed, which evolved into organized seminiferous tubules. The formation of the efferent ducts and ductus deferens and epididymis was observed on the 20th and 23rd days, respectively. The differentiation of the external genitalia occurred from the 23rd days from the anogenital distance and was identified to identify the penile structures. In summary, the features of the sexual differentiation were determined by observation of the Dhh+ protein in embryos from the 16th day to adulthood, and the morphological particularities observed from the 18th gestational day, determined by differentiation of the external genitalia from the 23rd day.

RESUMEN: El conejo se considera un modelo animal ideal para estudios que describen anomalías a nivel testícular debido a que presenta mecanismos morfogenéticos similares al desa- rrollo sexual y enfermedades que se encuentran comúnmente en los seres humanos. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar la diferenciación sexual masculina del conejo de Nueva Zelanda (Oryctolagus cuniculus) a través del desarrollo. La edad gestacional se estimó y clasificó en 9, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 23 y 28 días gestacionales. La determinación morfológica y sexual se realizó mediante análisis histológico del tracto reproductivo en los embriones y fetos (9 - 28 días) así como mediante inmunohistoquímica -Desert hedgehog-Dhh- (proteína testicular específica en el cromosoma Y- 16, 20, 23 días y conejos adultos). Las gónadas se observaron a partir del día 14 en un estadio indiferenciado y con aspecto homogéneo. Se observó diferenciación sexual a partir del día 16 con presencia de células formadoras de cordones gonadales y células Dhh+ en el parénquima gonadal. A partir del día 18 de gestación se observaron cordones testiculares, que evolucionaron a túbulos seminíferos organizados. La formación de los conductos eferentes, deferentes y del epidídimo se observó a los 20 y 23 días, respectivamente. La diferenciación de los genitales externos ocurrió a partir del día 23 desde la distancia anogenital y se utilizó para identificar las estructuras del pene. En conclusión, las características de la diferenciación sexual se determinaron mediante la observación de la proteína Dhh en embriones desde el día 16 hasta la edad adulta, y las particularidades morfológicas observadas a partir del día 18 de gestación, determinadas por diferenciación de los genitales externos a partir del día 23.

Research advances in direct infection of renal tubular cells by hepatitis B virus / 临床肝胆病杂志

The kidney plays a key role in hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection of liver cells. The pathogenesis of HBV-associated glomerulonephritis (HBV-GN) remains unclear, and the mechanism of HBV directly causing the injury of renal tubules has been taken seriously in recent years. HBV can induce the apoptosis of renal tubular cells by regulating cell cycle and activating related signaling pathways including NF-κB and thus lead to the progression of HBV-GN. At present, there are still no drugs targeting the kidney in the treatment of HBV-GN. This article summarizes the research advances in the key factors for HBV infection of cells and the injury of renal tubular cells caused by HBV and elaborates on the possible mechanism of direct infection of renal tubular cells by HBV, so as to provide new ideas for the treatment of HBV-GN.

Effect of autophagy on oxalate-induced toxicity of human proximal renal tubular epithelial cell / 中南大学学报(医学版)

OBJECTIVES@#To investigate the role of autophagy in oxalate-induced toxicity of human proximal renal tubular epithelial cell (HK-2).@*METHODS@#HK-2 cells were exposed to oxalate (1 mmol/L) for 2 h and 3-methyladenine (3-MA) was used to inhibit autophagy. Then Western blotting was used to measure the expression of autophagy-related protein LC3II. Cell viability and cell apoptosis were measured by MTT assay and flow cytometry assay, respectively.@*RESULTS@#Cytoplasmic vacuolization was observed in HK-2 cells after treating with oxalate for 2 h. However, 3-MA showed no effects on the formation of cytoplasmic vacuolization regardless of the dose at 1 or 5 mmol/L. The expression of LC3II protein was significantly increased in the HK-2 cells in the presence of oxalate (0.62±0.03 vs 0.35±0.02, @*CONCLUSIONS@#Autophagy of HK-2 cells is enhanced by oxalate at the concentration of 1 mmol/L. Inhibition of 3-MA-induced autophagy protects HK-2 cells from the oxalate-induced cytotoxicity.

Role of Sirt3 in lipopolysaccharide-induced abnormal mitochondrial dynamics in renal tubular epithelial cells / 中华肾脏病杂志

Objective:To observe the expression of sirtuin 3 (Sirt3) and mitochondrial damage-associated proteins in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute kidney injury mouse model and renal tubular epithelial cells, and to explore the role of Sirt3 in LPS-induced abnormal mitochondrial dynamics in renal tubular epithelial cells.Methods:Eighteen specific pathogen free (SPF) male C57BL/6 mice were randomly assigned to control group, LPS 24 h group and LPS 48 h group. The control group was intraperitoneally injected with physiological saline (0.1 ml/10 g), and LPS 24 h group and LPS 48 h group were intraperitoneally injected with LPS (10 mg/kg) solution. Renal functional indexes of mice were analyzed by automatic biochemical analyzer. The pathological change of the kidney was observed by HE staining, and the expressions of dynamin-related protein-1 (Drp1), optic atrophy type 1 (Opa1) and Sirt3 were evaluated by Western blotting. Expression and distribution of Sirt3 in kidney was assessed by immunohistochemistry. Human renal tubular epithelial cells (HK-2) were exposed to 10 μg/ml LPS for 24 h, and the expression of Drp1, Opa1 and Sirt3 were detected by Western blotting. Cell apoptosis was assessed by Hoechst-33342 staining. After transfection to HK-2 cells with pcDNA3.1-Sirt3 recombinant plasmid, the expressions of Sirt3, Drp1, Opa1 and cell apoptosis were detected by the same methods as above.Results:(1) The levels of blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine in LPS group were significantly higher than those in control group (both P<0.05), and the pathological changes of kidney were obvious. (2) Compared with the control group, the expression of mitochondrial fission-associated protein Drp1 in renal tissue of LPS group was significantly higher ( P<0.05), and the expression of mitochondrial fusion associated protein Opa1 was significantly lower ( P<0.05). (3) Compared with the control group, the expression of Sirt3 in LPS group was significantly lower ( P<0.05), and immunohistochemistry results showed that Sirt3 was mainly expressed in glomerular vascular endothelial cells and renal tubular epithelial cells. (4) In vitro, LPS stimulation induced increased Drp1 expression in HK-2 cells ( P<0.05), decreased Opa1 and Sirt3 expression (both P<0.05), and increased apoptosis ( P<0.05). (5) LPS-induced mitochondrial dynamics disturbance and apoptosis were alleviated by pcDNA3.1-Sirt3 recombinant plasmid transfection. Conclusions:LPS can induce down-regulation of Sirt3 expression and disturbance of mitochondrial dynamics, and Sirt3 may play a protective role in LPS-induced acute kidney injury by regulating mitochondrial dynamics.

Effect of hydrogen-rich saline on Akt/Nrf2 signaling pathway during hypoxia/reoxygenation injury to human renal tubular epithelial cells / 中华麻醉学杂志

Objective:To evaluate the effect of hydrogen-rich saline on serine threonine protein kinase (Akt) /nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway during hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) injury to human renal tubular epithelial cells.Methods:Human renal tubular epithelial cell line were seeded in 96-well plates at a density of 1.5×10 4 cells/ml (200 μl/well) or in 6-well plates at a density of 2×10 5 cells/ml (2 ml/well) were divided into 5 groups( n=30 each) using a random number table method: control group (group C), hydrogen-rich group (group H), group H/R, H/R plus hydrogen-rich saline group (group H/R+ H) and H/R plus hydrogen-rich saline plus Akt inhibitor uprosertib group (group H/R+ H+ U) .In group C, the cells were incubated for 28 h in an incubator filled with normoxia at 37 ℃ (5%CO 2-21%O 2-74%N 2). In group H, cells were added to the medium containing 0.6 mmol/L hydrogen-rich saline, and then incubated for 28 h in an incubator filled with normoxia at 37 ℃.In group H/R, the cells were incubated in an anaerobic chamber (37 ℃, 5%CO 2-1%O 2-94 %N 2) for 24 h, and then incubated for 4 h in an incubator filled with normoxia at 37 ℃.In group H/R+ H, the cells were incubated in an anaerobic chamber for 24 h, and then incubated for 4 h in an incubator containing 0.6 mmol/L filled with normoxia at 37 ℃.In group H/R+ H+ U, the cells were incubated for 1 h in the culture medium containing uprosertib 10 μmol/L (final concentration) and the other treatments were similar to those previously described in group H/R+ H. After treatment in each group, the cell viability was measured by MTT assay, cell apoptosis was measured using flow cytometry, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was measured using xanthine oxidase method), malondialdehyde (MDA) content was detected by thiobarbituric acid method, the expression of Akt, phosphorylated Akt (p-Akt), total Nrf2, nuclear Nrf2 and activated caspase-3 was detected by Western blot, and the expression of Nrf2 mRNA was detected by Real-time PCR. Results:Compared with group C, the cell viability and activity of SOD were significantly decreased, the apoptosis rate and content of MDA were increased, and the expression of p-Akt, nuclear Nrf2, total Nrf2, activated caspase-3 protein and Nrf2 mRNA was up-regulated in group H/R and group H/R+ H ( P<0.05). Compared with group H/R, the cell viability and activity of SOD were significantly increased, the apoptosis rate and content of MDA were decreased, the expression of p-Akt, nuclear Nrf2, total Nrf2 and Nrf2 mRNA was up-regulated and expression of activated caspase-3 protein was down-regulated in group H/R+ H ( P<0.05). Compared with group H/R+ H, the cell viability and activity of SOD was significantly decreased, the apoptosis rate and content of MDA were increased, the expression of p-Akt, nuclear Nrf2, total Nrf2 protein and Nrf2m RNA was down-regulated, and the expression of activated caspase-3 protein was up-regulated in group H/R+ H+ U ( P<0.05). Conclusion:The mechanism by which hydrogen-rich saline attenuates H/R injury to human renal tubular epithelial cells is related to improving activation of Akt/Nrf2 signaling pathway, decreasing oxidative stress response and inhibiting cell apoptosis.

Construction of an aging model of renal tubular epithelial cells / 中华老年医学杂志

Objective:To compare aging models for renal tubular epithelial cells induced by different drugs.Methods:Different concentrations of D-galactose(D-gal), hydrogen peroxide(H 2O 2)and cisplatin(CDDP)were administered to the human proximal tubular epithelial cell line(HK2). Cell activity and the half maximal inhibitory concentration(IC50)were measured by the CCK-8 assay; cell senescence was assessed by senescence-related β-galactosidase staining(SA-β-gal); senescence-related gene expression was detected by Western blotting; cell cycle distribution and apoptosis were determined by flow cytometry.Pathological changes in renal tubules and interstitial tissues were examined in D-gal-induced and naturally aging mice using HE staining, and p16 expression was detected using immunohistochemistry. Results:CCK-8 assay results showed that HK2 cell activity was inhibited treatment with each of the three compounds.The 48-hour IC50 values were(365.8±9.7)mmol/L for D-gal, (385.4±20.8)μmol/L for H 2O 2 and(8.4±1.6)μmol/L for CDDP.Light microscopic observation revealed slowed growth of HK2 cells in the three groups.The rate of SA-β-gal-positive cells increased, compared with the control group( P<0.05). Treatment resulted in an increase in G0/G1 phase cells by(22.9±1.0)% in the 400 mmol/L D-gal group and by(13.0±4.4)% in the 400 μmol/L H 2O 2 group, while G2/M phase cells increased by(14.4±1.9)%( t=48.07, 6.40, 16.53, P<0.05)in the 8 μmol/L CDDP group, compared with the control group.Also, compared with the control group, HK2 cell apoptosis increased by(50.3±1.0)% in the 400 μmol/L H 2O 2 group and by(41.9±2.0)% in the 8 μmol/L CDDP group, which was significantly higher than(7.7±0.4)% in the 400 mmol/L D-gal group( t=77.47, 33.73, 28.35, all P<0.05). Western blotting results indicated that the expression of CCND1 was down-regulated after any of the three drugs reached a certain concentration.The expression of p16 in the D-gal group was up-regulated( F=92.88, P<0.05), but there was no statistical difference in the expression of p16 after H 2O 2 or CDDP treatment.Mice of the D-gal model showed a decline in renal tubular cells, thickened basement membrane, widened interstitial spaces and increased expression of p16 in renal tubules similar to those observed in naturally aging mice. Conclusions:For HK2 cell senescence models induced by three different drugs, the renal tubular epithelial cell senescence model induced by D-gal is relatively close to the natural senescence model.

Bellini duct carcinoma

The modern era has brought an appreciation that renal cell carcinoma (RCC) includes diverse subtypes derived from the various parts of the nephron, each with its distinctive genetic basis and tumor biology. Carcinoma of the collecting ducts of Bellini (CDC) is a rare subtype of RCC, with a predictably poor prognosis. This rare subtype represents less than 1% of all kidney carcinomas. It derives from presumably numerous chromosomal losses. It is of chief importance to differentiate CDC from other types of renal cell cancer. Typically, it is characterized by a firm, centrally located tumor with infiltrative borders. Regarding the histopathologic characteristics, we can find complex, highly infiltrative cords with inflamed (desmoplastic) stroma, with high-grade nuclei and mitoses. Most reported cases of CDC had been high grade, advanced stage, and unresponsive to conventional therapies. This rare form of disease highlights the importance of multidisciplinary teams in the management of cancer patients.

Acidosis tubular renal distal. Serie de casos y revisión narrativa / Distal renal tubular acidosis: case series report and literature review

Resumen La acidosis tubular renal distal es causada por un defecto en la excreción de iones de hidrogeno a nivel tubular distal, lo que aumenta el pH de la orina y disminuye el pH plasmático; esta es una enfermedad con varias manifestaciones clínicas asociadas. En este artículo se hace una revisión profunda sobre la acidosis tubular renal distal y se presenta el caso de tres hermanos (dos hombres y una mujer) con la entidad, siendo este uno de los primeros casos familiares reportados en Colombia. Los tres pacientes recibieron el diagnóstico durante el período de lactancia, presentaron nefrocalcinosis y tuvieron buena respuesta a la terapia con álcali iniciada de forma temprana, logrando eventualmente su suspensión. De manera curiosa, uno de los pacientes también presentó deficiencia de mevalonato quinasa con hiperinmunoglobulinemia D, una alteración no descrita con anterioridad. Esta asociación y la aparente falta de necesidad de continuar el manejo con álcali son atípicas a la luz del conocimiento actual, mereciendo especial consideración.

Abstract The distal renal tubular acidosis presents due to a defect in the excretion of hydrogen ions at the distal tubular level, causing an increase in the pH of the urine and a decrease in the plasma pH, with several associated clinical manifestations. This article makes a thorough review of distal renal tubular acidosis and presents the case of three siblings with the entity, two men and one woman, this being one of the first family cases reported in Colombia. All three received the diagnosis during the lactation period, presented nephrocalcinosis and good response to the alkali therapy started early, eventually achieving their suspension. Interestingly, one of them also presented deficiency mevalonate-kinase with hiperinmunoglobulinemia D, alteration not previously described. This association and the apparent lack of need for continued management with alkali are atypical in the light of current knowledge, deserving special consideration.