Stroke induces profound neuroinflammation and systemic immune dysregulation,including disturbances in gut homeostasis.Experimental evidence suggests that intestinal barrier permeability(IBP)and bacterial translocation...Stroke induces profound neuroinflammation and systemic immune dysregulation,including disturbances in gut homeostasis.Experimental evidence suggests that intestinal barrier permeability(IBP)and bacterial translocation(BT)critically influence stroke outcomes.However,biological variability among commonly used rodent substrains has received limited attention.In this pilot study,we compared poststroke immune responses in two Wistar rat substrains obtained from different suppliers:RccHan(Envigo)and RjHan(Janvier).Naive animals(n=4)and rats subjected to permanent cerebral ischemia(n=8 per substrain)were evaluated 72 h after middle cerebral artery occlusion and stratified according to the presence or absence of BT.Immune cell populations in blood and bone marrow were analyzed using flow cytometry,and leukocyte infiltration into ischemic brain tissue was quantified using immunohisto-chemistry.Differences were considered statistically significant when p<0.05.Both substrains developed significant infarcts and neurological deficits.RccHan rats exhibited larger infarct volumes and more extensive BT across multiple organs.In contrast,RjHan rats exhibited BT mainly confined to mesenteric lymph nodes but exhibited greater IBP.Although dissemination was broader in RccHan rats,overall bacterial burden was slightly lower compared with RjHan,and extraintestinal bacterial composition differed between groups.Particularly,RjHan rats exhibited stronger systemic and central immune activation,with significant alterations in lymphocyte and monocyte populations and enhanced granulocyte and T-cell infiltration within ischemic lesions.These findings demonstrate that substrain origin profoundly influences poststroke intestinal barrier integrity,bacterial dissemination,and immune responses considering substrain-related variability is essential to improve reproducibility and translational relevance in preclinical stroke research.展开更多
Our previous study demonstrated that combined transplantation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and retinal progenitor cells in rats has therapeutic effects on retinal degeneration that are superior to transplanta...Our previous study demonstrated that combined transplantation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and retinal progenitor cells in rats has therapeutic effects on retinal degeneration that are superior to transplantation of retinal progenitor cells alone.Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells regulate and interact with various cells in the retinal microenvironment by secreting neurotrophic factors and extracellular vesicles.Small extracellular vesicles derived from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells,which offer low immunogenicity,minimal tumorigenic risk,and ease of transportation,have been utilized in the treatment of various neurological diseases.These vesicles exhibit various activities,including anti-inflammatory actions,promotion of tissue repair,and immune regulation.Therefore,novel strategies using human retinal progenitor cells combined with bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell-derived small extracellular vesicles may represent an innovation in stem cell therapy for retinal degeneration.In this study,we developed such an approach utilizing retinal progenitor cells combined with bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell-derived small extracellular vesicles to treat retinal degeneration in Royal College of Surgeons rats,a genetic model of retinal degeneration.Our findings revealed that the combination of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell-derived small extracellular vesicles and retinal progenitor cells significantly improved visual function in these rats.The addition of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell-derived small extracellular vesicles as adjuvants to stem cell transplantation with retinal progenitor cells enhanced the survival,migration,and differentiation of the exogenous retinal progenitor cells.Concurrently,these small extracellular vesicles inhibited the activation of regional microglia,promoted the migration of transplanted retinal progenitor cells to the inner nuclear layer of the retina,and facilitated their differentiation into photoreceptors and bipolar cells.These findings suggest that bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell-derived small extracellular vesicles potentiate the therapeutic efficacy of retinal progenitor cells in retinal degeneration by promoting their survival and differentiation.展开更多
AIM:To examine the ocular toxicity linked to sildenafilusage and the possible protective benefits of adenosinetriphosphate(ATP)against this toxicity in rats.METHODS:Twenty-four male albino Wistar-type ratswere divided...AIM:To examine the ocular toxicity linked to sildenafilusage and the possible protective benefits of adenosinetriphosphate(ATP)against this toxicity in rats.METHODS:Twenty-four male albino Wistar-type ratswere divided into four equal groups(n=6/group)as follows:healthy group(HG),ATP-only group(ATPG),sildenafil-onlygroup(SILG),and ATP+sildenafil group(ATP+SLD).ATPG andATP+SLD groups were injected intraperitoneally with ATP(4 mg/kg),while SILG and HG groups were injected withsaline(0.9%NaCl)by the same route as a solvent.One hourafter the administration of ATP and solvent,sildenafil(10 m g/k g)was administered orally to the SILG andATP+SLD groups.This procedure was repeated once a dayfor 4wk.The animals were then sacrificed,eyeballs wereremoved and oxidant and antioxidant parameters weremeasured biochemically.Additionally,the ocular tissueswere evaluated histopathologically.RESULTS:Sildenafil increased oxidant(malondialdehyde)levels and decreased antioxidant levels(total glutathione,superoxide dismutase,catalase)in rat ocular tissues andcaused severe oxidative stress.In addition,sildenafil hasbeen shown histopathologically to cause oxidative damagein retinal layers.ATP treatment suppressed oxidative stressand attenuated histopathological damage in the retinal layers.CONCLUSION:ATP protects retinal tissue againstsildenafil-induced ocular oxidative damage in rats andmay contribute to the development of novel approaches toprevent or treat this damage.展开更多
Objective:To investigate the sterilizing potential of zinc gluconate,calcium chloride(CaCl2)and cadmium chloride(CdCl2)following a single intratesticular administration in adult male rats.Methods:60 adult male W...Objective:To investigate the sterilizing potential of zinc gluconate,calcium chloride(CaCl2)and cadmium chloride(CdCl2)following a single intratesticular administration in adult male rats.Methods:60 adult male Wistar albino rats(Rattus norvegicus)weighing 160-200 g and aged 5-6 months randomly received a single intratesticular injection of normal saline(Group A),zinc gluconate 13.3 mg/mL plus L-Arginine(Group B),20%CaCl2(Group C),and CdCl20.5 mg/kg body weight plus ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid(EDTA)(Group D),respectively,along the entire route from the caudoventral aspect of each testis.They were euthanized up to 180 days to evaluate reproductive tract toxicology.Results:The reproductive organ weights were markedly reduced,with testes severely atrophied in group B,pea-sized and stony hard in group C,and moderately reduced in group D.Azoospermia was evident in groups B and C,while sperm concentration was reduced to<1 million/mL with zero sperm motility in group D.Rats of groups B and C failed to show mounting and copulatory behaviour.A completely disorganized mesh of cellular elements was observed in the seminiferous tubules of group B,while pyknotic germ cell and arrest of spermatogenesis,exfoliated germ cells,occasional syncytial bodies and smaller Leydig cells were evident in groups C and D.Significantly reduced testosterone levels,increased luteinizing hormone(LH)and follicle-stimulating hormone(FSH)levels,returned to normal after 90 days in group D.Conclusions:Zinc gluconate and CaCl2injections severely affected the reproductive organs and libido and rats treated with CdCl2exhibited diminished spermatogenesis with normal libido.Thus,the need-based selection of intratesticular agents should consider their distinct effects on spermatogenesis,libido,and hormonal balance for achieving targeted sterilization outcomes.展开更多
Background:Mitochondrial DNA(mtDNA)mutations are implicated in a wide range of diseases,underscoring the need to elucidate the relationship between mtDNA mutations and disease pathology.These diseases are often charac...Background:Mitochondrial DNA(mtDNA)mutations are implicated in a wide range of diseases,underscoring the need to elucidate the relationship between mtDNA mutations and disease pathology.These diseases are often characterized by the presence of multiple mutations;however,research has been hampered by the lack of suitable animal models carrying multiplex mtDNA mutations.Such models cannot be produced through traditional breeding due to matrilineal inheritance of mtDNA.Methods:Based on the TALE-based mitochondrial genome editing tools,we generated rats harboring multiple mtDNA mutations by microinjecting mixed pairs of DdCBE plasmids into one-cell-stage zygotes.The efficiency of mtDNA editing and the potential off-target effects were assessed through deep sequencing and long reads sequencing methodologies.Results:In this study,we established double-and triple-site mutant rats with the editing efficiencies of up to 58.5%and confirmed that these mutations can be stably transmitted through the germline.Moreover,our results demonstrated that DdCBE-mediated mtDNA multi-site editing of mtDNA exhibits minimal off-target effects in both the mitochondrial and nuclear genomes in vivo.Conclusion:This work represents the first successful generation of heritable multi-site mtDNA mutant rats,providing a valuable model for elucidating the pathophysiological mechanisms of mitochondrial disorders and for developing potential therapeutics.展开更多
BACKGROUND Diabetes is an endocrinopathy characterized by the inability to produce insulin or insufficient insulin production because of the destruction of beta cells in the pancreas caused by autoimmune or other epid...BACKGROUND Diabetes is an endocrinopathy characterized by the inability to produce insulin or insufficient insulin production because of the destruction of beta cells in the pancreas caused by autoimmune or other epidemiological factors.Diabetes can lead to physical and psychological complications.AIM To investigate early behavioral changes in an experimental diabetes model in juvenile rats.METHODS In this study,a total of 14 juvenile male Wistar rats(7 rats per group)were used.To induce the diabetes model,120 mg/kg streptozotocin(STZ)was administered,while the control group received 1 mL/kg physiological saline.The open field test and the hole-board test were performed for five minutes each.Unpaired comparisons were evaluated using Student’s t test or the Mann-Whitney U test.Correlations were analyzed using the Pearson test.RESULTS Severe hyperglycemia was observed in rats in the diabetes mellitus model induced by STZ,and all diabetic rats displayed glucose levels above 400 mg/dL.In the open-field test,the time spent in the central area,the number of rearings,and the total distance traveled were significantly lower in diabetic rats than in naive rats(P<0.05).In the hole-board test,the duration and frequency of total head dipping were considerably lower in diabetic rats than in healthy rats(P<0.01).The grooming time(P<0.01)and freezing time(P<0.0001)increased dramatically in the diabetes mellitus group.A remarkable correlation was found between behavioral changes and hyperglycemia.CONCLUSION Our data indicate that early-stage diabetes induced by STZ increases anxiety-like behaviors and impairs exploratory behaviors.These behavioral changes may also occur in children with undiagnosed or untreated hyperglycemia and can provide important clues in clinical practice.展开更多
[Objectives]To observe the effect of Shenfu Injection on regional cerebral blood flow(RCBF)in a rat model of acute cerebral infarction.[Methods]Thirty Sprague-Dawley(SD)rats were randomly assigned to three groups:cont...[Objectives]To observe the effect of Shenfu Injection on regional cerebral blood flow(RCBF)in a rat model of acute cerebral infarction.[Methods]Thirty Sprague-Dawley(SD)rats were randomly assigned to three groups:control group,model group,and Shenfu Injection group(administered via tail vein injection at 2 mL/100 g body weight).The model was established using the middle cerebral artery occlusion(MCAO)method,and electroencephalogram(EEG)spike amplitude and RCBF were measured at 0,30,and 60 min,as well as 1,3,and 6 d post-reperfusion.[Results]Compared with the model group,the Shenfu Injection group exhibited significantly increased RCBF on day 3 and 6(P<0.05)and significantly decreased EEG spike amplitude on day 1,3,and 6(P<0.05).[Conclusions]Shenfu Injection improves regional cerebral blood flow in rats with acute cerebral infarction,potentially through mechanisms involving suppression of abnormal electrical discharges and dilatation of microvessels.展开更多
Background:Zucker diabetic fatty(ZDF)rats exhibit significant phenotypic variability despite genetic uniformity,yet a comprehensive characterization of these divergent phenotypes remains limited.Methods:Male ZDF(fa/fa...Background:Zucker diabetic fatty(ZDF)rats exhibit significant phenotypic variability despite genetic uniformity,yet a comprehensive characterization of these divergent phenotypes remains limited.Methods:Male ZDF(fa/fa)rats(4 months,n=22)and ZDF(fa/+)lean controls(n=10)were maintained on standard chow for 6 months.Based on metabolic trajectory,ZDF(fa/fa)rats were stratified into three phenotypes:obese normoglycemic(O,n=8),dia-betic with cachexia(D,n=8),and diabetic without cachexia(D-C,n=6).Comprehensive assessments included body weight,glycemic control,hepatic function,oxidative stress markers,and inflammatory cytokines.Results:Principal coordinate analysis confirmed significant metabolic separation between phenotypes(p25 mmol/L),insulin depletion,elevated hepatic enzymes(alanine ami-notransferase[ALT]increased 2.5-fold,p<0.01),elevated interleukin-6,and delayed pain response.Diabetic rats without cachexia(D-C)exhibited intermediate hypergly-cemia(≈13 mmol/L,p<0.001 vs.control)with preserved insulin levels,and elevated fibroblast growth factor 21(FGF21)and soluble receptor for advanced glycation end products(sRAGE).Obese normoglycemic(O)rats maintained normoglycemia with hy-perinsulinemia and elevated triglycerides.Conclusion:Under identical genetic and environmental conditions,ZDF(fa/fa)rats de-velop distinct metabolic phenotypes encompassing euglycemic obesity,pre-cachectic diabetes,and advanced cachectic diabetes.Phenotypic stratification is essential for accurate interpretation of ZDF experimental data and underscores the importance of characterizing individual metabolic trajectories when diabetic complications and therapeutic interventions are assessed in this model.展开更多
Background:Atherosclerosis begins with dyslipidemia,vascular inflammation,and en-dothelial dysfunction.Rodent models that capture these early events are needed for mechanistic and interventional studies.This study eva...Background:Atherosclerosis begins with dyslipidemia,vascular inflammation,and en-dothelial dysfunction.Rodent models that capture these early events are needed for mechanistic and interventional studies.This study evaluated whether a cholesterol-rich,high-fat diet(HFD)supplemented with vitamin D and propylthiouracil(PTU)promotes a pro-atherogenic phenotype in rats,as evidenced by dyslipidemia,inflam-mation,markers of endothelial dysfunction,and early vascular remodeling.Methods:Male Sprague-Dawley rats(n=18)received standard chow or a HFD con-taining 2%cholesterol,3%lard,0.5%cholate,vitamin D(200000 IU/kg),and PTU(0.2%w/w)for 11 weeks.Terminal serum total cholesterol,high-density lipoprotein,low-density lipoprotein(LDL)/very low-density lipoprotein(VLDL),triglycerides,calcium,interleukin-6(IL-6),C-reactive protein,serum amyloid A(SAA),circulating endothelial nitric oxide synthase(eNOS),and intracellular adhesion molecule-1(ICAM-1)were measured.The aorta,the coronary arteries,and the liver were examined histologically.Results:HFD-fed rats developed significant hypercholesterolemia with higher total cholesterol and LDL/VLDL(p<0.0001)and lower triglycerides(p<0.0001)versus controls.Serum calcium was higher(p<0.0001)without vascular calcification.Aortae exhibited wall thickening,smooth-muscle disarray,mononuclear infiltrates,and focal foam cell-like changes;coronary arteries exhibited endothelial irregularities and perivascular infiltrates.Livers exhibited micro-and macrovesicular steatosis.IL-6 and SAA were higher(p<0.05),and circulating eNOS was lower(p<0.05);ICAM-1 did not differ significantly.Conclusion:An 11-week vitamin D/PTU-supplemented HFD induces an LDL-dominant dyslipidemia with systemic inflammation and evidence consistent with endothelial dysfunction,alongside histological features of early vascular remodeling and hepatic steatosis.This nongenetic model may be useful for studying early atherogenic changes.展开更多
AIM:To investigate the effects of zingerone(ZO)on the retina in diabetic rats.METHODS:A total of 70 rats were randomly selected and divided into seven groups[diabetic group(Dm+;n=10),diabetic+metformin group(Dm+Met;n=...AIM:To investigate the effects of zingerone(ZO)on the retina in diabetic rats.METHODS:A total of 70 rats were randomly selected and divided into seven groups[diabetic group(Dm+;n=10),diabetic+metformin group(Dm+Met;n=10),diabetic+ZO25 group(Dm+ZO25;n=10),diabetic+ZO50 group(Dm+ZO50;n=10),diabetic+metformin group+ZO 50 Group(Dm+Met+ZO50;n=10)].Diabetes was induced by streptozotocin(STZ),and metformin and two different doses of ZO were administered via gavage.Retinal tissues were evaluated by histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses.RESULTS:In diabetic rats,severe retinal inflammation,tissue necrosis,and increased tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α)expression were observed.ZO administration reduced these effects in a dose-dependent manner.Protective effects of metformin alone were limited,and no synergistic benefit was observed in ZO+Met groups.Administration of 50 mg/kg ZO to non-diabetic rats caused no retinal toxicity.Additionally,elevated 8-OHdG and c-Jun N-terminal kinase(JNK)expressions in diabetic retinopathy models were significantly reduced by ZO treatment.CONCLUSION:ZO can markedly reduce the pathological effects of the retina in a diabetic rat model.展开更多
This study aims to establish a theoretical foundation for selecting and constructing animal models in clinical research on spine-related diseases.By establishing surgical models in three experimental animal species—m...This study aims to establish a theoretical foundation for selecting and constructing animal models in clinical research on spine-related diseases.By establishing surgical models in three experimental animal species—mice,rats,and rabbits—we compare their respective advantages and disadvantages.First,three experimental animals of each of the three species were selected in good health.Subsequently,the experimental animals were dissected and several indices of the designated intervertebral discs and the height of the adjacent vertebrae were measured.At the same time,the ease of the surgical operation was assessed intraoperatively(in terms of the ease of preoperative localization,the clarity of the intraoperative structures,and the length of the surgical operation).In addition,the animal type most suitable for the construction of a spinal fusion surgery model was evaluated.Finally,a rabbit spinal fusion surgical model was constructed and evaluated by palpation and gross view of the tissue to assess the degree of spinal fusion.The data on the disc structure of rabbits have more advantages than those of mice and rats in constructing surgical models,with easier preoperative localization,more precise intraoperative structure,and shorter surgery time.Spinal fusion surgery in rabbits was successful,with a significant trend toward fusion at 4 weeks postoperatively.Rabbits were superior to mice and rats as experimental animals for establishing spinal fusion surgery models,and the fusion models were effective.展开更多
BACKGROUND Magnetic compression anastomosis(MCA)offers a simple and reliable technique for inducing anastomoses at any point along the digestive tract.Evidence regarding whether the design of the MCA device influences...BACKGROUND Magnetic compression anastomosis(MCA)offers a simple and reliable technique for inducing anastomoses at any point along the digestive tract.Evidence regarding whether the design of the MCA device influences the anastomosis effect is lacking.AIM To investigate any difference in the side-to-side colonic anastomosis effect achieved with cylindrical vs circular ring magnets.METHODS We designed cylindrical and circular ring magnets suitable for side-to-side colonic anastomosis in rats.Thirty Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into a cylindrical group,circular ring group,and cylindrical–circular ring group(n=10/group).Side-to-side colonic anastomosis was completed by transanal insertion of the magnets without incision of the colon.Operation time,perioperative complications,and magnet discharge time were recorded.Rats were euthanized 4 weeks postoperatively,and anastomotic specimens were obtained.The burst pressure and anastomotic diameter were measured sequentially,and anastomosis formation was observed by naked eye.Histological results were observed by light microscopy.RESULTS In all 30 rats,side-to-side colonic anastomosis was completed,for an operation success rate of 100%.No postoperative complications of bleeding and intestinal obstruction occurred,and the postoperative survival rate were 100%.The operation time,magnet discharge time,anastomotic bursting pressure,and anastomotic diameter did not differ significantly among the three designs(P>0.05).Healing was similar across the groups,with gross specimens showing good anastomotic healing and good mucosal continuity observed on histological analysis.CONCLUSION This study found no significant difference in the establishment of rat side-to-side colonic anastomosis with the use of cylindrical vs circular ring magnets.展开更多
Objective To investigate the effects of Zuogui Jiangtang Yishen Formula(左归降糖益肾方,ZGJTYSF)in regulating the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor protein 3(NLRP3)/caspase-1/gasdermin D(GSDMD)sig...Objective To investigate the effects of Zuogui Jiangtang Yishen Formula(左归降糖益肾方,ZGJTYSF)in regulating the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor protein 3(NLRP3)/caspase-1/gasdermin D(GSDMD)signaling axis on pyroptosis in rats with diabetic kidney disease(DKD).Methods Fifty male specific pathogen-free(SPF)grade Goto-Kakizaki(GK)rats(12 weeks old)were fed a high-fat diet for one month to establish an early DKD model.Model establishment was confirmed when fasting blood glucose(FBG)≥11.1 mmol/L and urinary albuminto-creatinine ratio(uACR)≥30 mg/g.The successfully modeled early DKD rats were randomly divided by random number table into five groups(n=10 per group):model group;dapagliflozin group(1.0 mg/kg,by gavage,served as positive control);and low-,medium-,and high-dose of ZGJTYSF groups(4.9,9.9,and 19.9 g/kg,respectively,by gavage).Age-matched male SPF Wistar rats(n=10)served as control group.Rats in control and model groups were gavaged with equivalent volumes of distilled water.Treatment lasted 12 weeks.Changes in uACR,FBG,and renal function were observed in all groups.Hematoxylin-eosin(HE),periodic acid-Schiff(PAS),and Masson staining were used to observe renal histopathological changes.Immunohistochemistry was performed to detect the localization and expression of caspase-1,GSDMD,and NLRP3 in rat renal tissues.Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase deoxyuridine triphosphate(dUTP)nick end labeling(TUNEL)was utilized to detect pyroptosis in renal tissues.Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(qPCR)and Western blot were applied to detect mRNA and protein expression levels of NLRP3,caspase-1,GSDMD,interleukin(IL)-1β,and IL-18.Results Compared with model group,all doses of ZGJTYSF showed reductions in FBG,with medium-and high-dose of ZGJTYSF groups demonstrating significant decreases at week 8 and 12(P0.05).No significant differences in renal function parameters(serum creatinine,blood urea nitrogen,and uric acid)were observed among groups(P>0.05).Histopathological examination revealed milder glomerular and tubular lesions in both ZGJTYSF groups and dapagliflozin group,with renal pathological changes in high-dose of ZGJTYSF group resembling those in dapagliflozin group.Immunohistochemistry demonstrated significantly reduced expression of caspase-1,GSDMD,and NLRP3 in renal tissues of dapagliflozin group and high-dose of ZGJTYSF group compared with model group(P0.05).TUNEL assay showed significantly fewer TUNEL-positive cells in renal tissues of dapagliflozin and high-dose of ZGJTYSF groups(P0.05).Conclusion ZGJTYSF may inhibit renal pyroptosis by regulating the NLRP3/caspase-1/GSDMD signaling axis,thereby preventing and treating early renal injury in DKD and delaying the onset and progression of DKD.展开更多
Humans and animals have a fundamental ability to use experiences and environmental information to organize behavior.It often happens that humans and animals make decisions and prepare actions under uncertain situation...Humans and animals have a fundamental ability to use experiences and environmental information to organize behavior.It often happens that humans and animals make decisions and prepare actions under uncertain situations.Uncertainty would significantly affect the state of animals’minds,but may not be reflected in behavior.How to“read animals’mind state”under different situations is a challenge.Here,we report that neuronal activity in the medial prefrontal cortex(mPFC)of rats can reflect the environmental uncertainty when the task situation changes from certain to uncertain.Rats were trained to perform behavioral tasks under certain and uncertain situations.Under certain situations,rats were required to simply repeat two nose-poking actions that each triggered short auditory tone feedback(single-task situation).Whereas under the uncertain situation,the feedback could randomly be either the previous tone or a short musical rhythm.No additional action was required upon the music feedback,and the same secondary nose-poking action was required upon the tone feedback(dual-task situation);therefore,the coming task was uncertain before action initiation.We recorded single-unit activity from the mPFC when the rats were performing the tasks.We found that in the dual task,when uncertainty was introduced,many mPFC neurons were actively engaged in dealing with the uncertainty before the task initiation,suggesting that the rats could be aware of the task situation change and encode the information in the mPFC before the action of task initiation.展开更多
AIM:To investigate the functions and potential mechanisms of obtusifolin in dry eye disease(DED)in a rat model.METHODS:A rat DED model was established via topical administration of benzalkonium chloride(BAC),followed ...AIM:To investigate the functions and potential mechanisms of obtusifolin in dry eye disease(DED)in a rat model.METHODS:A rat DED model was established via topical administration of benzalkonium chloride(BAC),followed by administration of obtusifolin.Conjunctival irritation score and tear production were measured to evaluate DED symptoms.Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA)was employed for determining inflammatory cytokine levels in rat conjunctiva.Periodic acid-Schiff staining and corneal fluorescein staining were implemented for assessing goblet cell numbers and corneal epithelial defects,respectively.Western blotting showed zonula occludens-1(ZO-1),matrix metalloproteinase-9(MMP-9),and mitogen-activated protein kinase(MAPK)uclear factor kappa B(NF-κB)signaling-related protein levels in the conjunctiva.RESULTS:Topical application of obtusifolin alleviated conjunctival irritation and enhanced tear production in BAC-induced DED rats.Obtusifolin attenuated conjunctival inflammatory response and goblet cell loss as well as corneal epithelial barrier disruption in DED rats.Obtusifolin suppressed extracellular signal-regulated kinase(ERK),p38,and NF-κB phosphorylation in the conjunctiva of DED rats.CONCLUSION:Obtusifolin ameliorates DED in rats possibly by alleviating inflammation via the inactivation of MAPK/NF-κB signaling.展开更多
Background:Obesity represents a major public health issue,closely linked to a range of metabolic and reproductive disorders.Electroacupuncture(EA)has emerged as a potential non-pharmacological intervention that may al...Background:Obesity represents a major public health issue,closely linked to a range of metabolic and reproductive disorders.Electroacupuncture(EA)has emerged as a potential non-pharmacological intervention that may alleviate complications associated with obesity,including reproductive dysfunction.Objectives:This study sought to evaluate the impact of EA on leptin/kisspeptin signaling pathways and hypothalamic inflammation in obese male rats,with the aim of elucidating its potential mechanisms in mitigating reproductive disorders related to obesity.Methods:Forty male Wistar rats were allocated into two groups:a regular diet(RD,n=10)group and a high-fat diet(HFD,n=30)group.Following an 8-week period,23 out of the 30 rats in the HFD group satisfied the criteria for the obesity model,characterized by a body weight surpassing 20%of the average body weight of the RD group.From these 23 obese rats,20 were randomly selected and further subdivided into the Model(n=10)and EA(n=10)groups.The EA group underwent EA treatment at the Zusanli(ST36),Shenshu(BL23),and Sanyinjiao(SP6)acupoints over a duration of 4 weeks.The study assessed parameters including body weight,serum lipid levels,reproductive hormone levels,hypothalamic histology,inflammation markers,and neurotransmitter levels.Results:EA treatment significantly reduced body weight,improved lipid profiles,and restored hormone levels towards those seen in control animals.Histological analysis showed improved neuronal integrity and a shift in microglial polarization towards an anti-inflammatory phenotype in the EA group.EA treatment was associated with improvements in leptin and kisspeptin signaling activity,which may contribute to its beneficial effects on reproductive function in obese male rats.Neurotransmitter profiling and untargeted serum metabolomics revealed significant improvements in metabolic pathways related to amino acid and lipid metabolism,including key pathways associated with dopamine,serotonin,and glutamine.Conclusions:EA significantly alleviated obesity-induced reproductive dysfunction by modulating leptin and kisspeptin signaling,reducing hypothalamic inflammation,and improving neurotransmitter and serum metabolic profiles,suggesting its potential as a therapeutic strategy for reproductive issues related to obesity.Additional research is essential to investigate the molecular pathways of EA and assess its clinical applicability.展开更多
BACKGROUND Insomnia is closely associated with anxiety and depression,with its pathogenesis involving biological,psychological,and social factors.Sini powder and Suanzaoren decoction are clinically effective tradition...BACKGROUND Insomnia is closely associated with anxiety and depression,with its pathogenesis involving biological,psychological,and social factors.Sini powder and Suanzaoren decoction are clinically effective traditional Chinese medicine formulas for insomnia,demonstrating promising bioactivity.However,the capability of the active components of Sini-Suanzaoren decoction(SNSZRD)to cross the bloodbrain barrier(BBB)and their precise molecular mechanisms,particularly concerning the MT-SIRT1 pathway and mitochondrial function,remain largely unexplored.AIM To elucidate the bioactive components of SNSZRD that are capable of BBB penetration and investigate the therapeutic mechanism of SNSZRD against insomnia.METHODS The chemical components of SNSZRD were analyzed through liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry(LC-MS).Male Sprague-Dawley rats were intraperitoneally injected with DL-4-chlorophenylalanine(PCPA)to establish an insomnia model.Rats were divided into control,model,eszopiclone(positive control),and SNSZRD low-/medium-/high-dose groups.Molecular docking predicted BBBpenetrating components and their binding affinity for SIRT1.Key pathways were analyzed through open-field tests,elevated plus-maze tests,pentobarbital-induced sleep experiments,Haematoxylin and eosin staining,Nissl staining,ELISA,Western blot analysis,quantitative real-time PCR,and immunohistochemistry.RESULTS LC-MS identified 1574 compounds in SNSZRD,of which eight prototype components(e.g.,pachymic acid and senkyunolide G)could cross the BBB.Molecular docking revealed that these components formed stable hydrogen bonds with the SIRT1 protein.SNSZRD treatment significantly ameliorated PCPA-induced anxiety-like behaviors and sleep latency/sleep duration,as well as reduced neuronal degeneration and Nissl body loss in the hypothalamus of treated rats.Additionally,SNSZRD elevated serum melatonin and hypothalamus ATP levels and upregulated the mRNA and protein expression levels of arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase,SIRT1,PPARγcoactivator-1α,nuclear respiratory factor-1,and mitochondrial transcription factor A in the MT-SIRT1-mitochondrial biogenesis pathway.CONCLUSION SNSZRD might exert its therapeutic effects on insomnia by modulating MT-SIRT1 axis-regulated mitochondrial biogenesis in rats and might serve as an effective therapeutic agent for insomnia.展开更多
Infants exhibit diminished susceptibility to external infections,a phenomenon closely linked to the pervasive presence of the bifidobacterial community within their intestinal tract.Nonetheless,a significant knowledge...Infants exhibit diminished susceptibility to external infections,a phenomenon closely linked to the pervasive presence of the bifidobacterial community within their intestinal tract.Nonetheless,a significant knowledge gap remains concerning the distinct species of bifidobacteria initiating anti-infection immune responses during the early developmental stages.In this study,the impact of early intervention with Bifidobacterium bifidum,Bifidobacterium breve,and Bifidobacterium longum on neonatal rats infected with Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium SL1344 were compared.The study encompasses various immunity levels,including gut immunity,central immunity(thymus),peripheral immunity(spleen),and brain immunity.Following Salmonella infection,significant alterations in neonatal rats were observed in growth and developmental levels,immune markers,cytokine levels,balance of T lymphocyte subpopulations,intestinal barrier function,and blood-brain barrier integrity.Compared with B.breve and B.longum,B.bifidum demonstrated more pronounced efficacy in regulating these physiological processes.By conducting multi-level analyses of gut microbiota,bifidobacterial community,colonic content metabolomics,and serum metabolomics,the significance of B.bifidum’s role is underscored,and the immune-enhancing function of messenger metabolites is unveiled.Among these metabolites,γ-L-glutamyl-L-glutamic acid and orotic acid were found to be shared by all 3 species,while hippuric acid and 1a,1b-dihomo prostaglandin F2αwere unique to B.bifidum,and DL-arginine was specific to B.longum.Overall,this study has provided novel insights into the intervention and immunomodulation by Bifidobacterium in early-life infections,emphasizing the significant role of B.bifidum.展开更多
The prevalence of iron deficiency anemia(IDA)remains high in infants,resulting in growth retardation,neurodevelopmental impairment,immunodeficiency and other irreversible injuries.Efficient and safe iron supplementati...The prevalence of iron deficiency anemia(IDA)remains high in infants,resulting in growth retardation,neurodevelopmental impairment,immunodeficiency and other irreversible injuries.Efficient and safe iron supplementation for infants has been the goal of recent research.This study aims to investigate the effect of encapsulated ferric pyrophosphate(FePP)on intestinal inflammation and gut microbiota in IDA suckling rats.Newborn Sprague-Dawley rats were gavaged with low and high doses of FePP and FeSO4(2 and 10 mg Fe/kg BW,respectively)during postnatal days 2-14,while the Ctrl group was gavaged with saline.Results showed that FePP supplementation was as effective as FeSO4 in promoting growth,alleviating anemia and restoring body iron levels.Both low and high doses of FePP could significantly down-regulate the expression of pro inflammatory cytokines in the colon to the level similar to that in the Ctrl group(P>0.05).However,the high dose of FeSO4 did not show a down-regulation effect.Compared with the Ctrl group,IDA caused a disturbance of gut microbiota composition in suckling rats,and FePP could restore this dysbiosis.Besides,FePP was more beneficial than FeSO4 in increasing the abundance of beneficial bacteria such as Bacteroides and Akkermansia.Spearman’s correlation analysis showed a correlation between gut microbiota and biochemical indicators such as iron status,pro-inflammatory cytokine expression,and oxidative stress level.Overall,these findings suggested that FePP could effectively improve IDA,and is more effective than FeSO4 in alleviating intestinal inflammation and regulating gut microbiota,which provides a basis for the application of new iron fortificant in infant formula.展开更多
ZSF1 lean rats are widely used as controls in cardiometabolic studies involving ZSF1 obese rats,which develop a cardiometabolic syndrome and diastolic dysfunction at a young age due to a double leptin receptor mutatio...ZSF1 lean rats are widely used as controls in cardiometabolic studies involving ZSF1 obese rats,which develop a cardiometabolic syndrome and diastolic dysfunction at a young age due to a double leptin receptor mutation(Leprcpand Leprfa).Although,lean littermates show no overt signs of cardiometabolic disease or diastolic impact,they belong to one of three genotypic variants,two of which carry one of the mutant Lepr alleles and,thus,doubt has been raised about their suitability as healthy controls.We compared 32-week-old female ZSF1 lean and Wistar rats regarding physiological,myocardial,vascular,skeletal muscle,and mitochondrial characteristics.Lean rats showed lower body weight but increased heart,kidney,and skeletal muscle mass.Despite thicker ventricular walls,systolic and diastolic function were preserved.Hemodynamically measured contractility was higher as underpinned by a higher mitochondrial respiratory capacity of LV fibers.However,left ventricular filling pressure was elevated,accompanied by increased ventricular stiffness.Endothelial function was preserved,but smooth muscle responsiveness was reduced,indicated by impaired SNP-induced relaxation.Passive vascular stiffness mediated by collagenous fibers was significantly higher in lean rats.Skeletal muscle function was mostly preserved,though maximal specific force of the EDL was reduced.Taken together,ZSF1 lean rats are physiologically different from Wistar rats as they display enlarged myocardial dimensions accompanied by increased blood pressure and an incipient diastolic and vascular stiffness.Therefore,our data indicate an early phase of passive compliance disorder in ZSF1 lean animals,which might become more pronounced at an advanced age.展开更多
基金Leducq Trans-Atlantic Network of Excellence,Grant/Award Number:TNE-21CVD04Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation,Grant/Award Number:PID2020-117765RB-I00 and PID2022-140616OB-I00+1 种基金Instituto de Salud Carlos Ⅲ,European Development Regional Fund,RICORS-ICTUS Grant/Award Number:RD21/0006/0001the FORTALECE program. Grant/Award Number:FORT23/00023。
摘要Stroke induces profound neuroinflammation and systemic immune dysregulation,including disturbances in gut homeostasis.Experimental evidence suggests that intestinal barrier permeability(IBP)and bacterial translocation(BT)critically influence stroke outcomes.However,biological variability among commonly used rodent substrains has received limited attention.In this pilot study,we compared poststroke immune responses in two Wistar rat substrains obtained from different suppliers:RccHan(Envigo)and RjHan(Janvier).Naive animals(n=4)and rats subjected to permanent cerebral ischemia(n=8 per substrain)were evaluated 72 h after middle cerebral artery occlusion and stratified according to the presence or absence of BT.Immune cell populations in blood and bone marrow were analyzed using flow cytometry,and leukocyte infiltration into ischemic brain tissue was quantified using immunohisto-chemistry.Differences were considered statistically significant when p<0.05.Both substrains developed significant infarcts and neurological deficits.RccHan rats exhibited larger infarct volumes and more extensive BT across multiple organs.In contrast,RjHan rats exhibited BT mainly confined to mesenteric lymph nodes but exhibited greater IBP.Although dissemination was broader in RccHan rats,overall bacterial burden was slightly lower compared with RjHan,and extraintestinal bacterial composition differed between groups.Particularly,RjHan rats exhibited stronger systemic and central immune activation,with significant alterations in lymphocyte and monocyte populations and enhanced granulocyte and T-cell infiltration within ischemic lesions.These findings demonstrate that substrain origin profoundly influences poststroke intestinal barrier integrity,bacterial dissemination,and immune responses considering substrain-related variability is essential to improve reproducibility and translational relevance in preclinical stroke research.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.82271132(to YL),82101167(to BB)the Natural Science Foundation of Chongqing,Nos.CSTB2022NSCQ-MSX0020(to BB),cstc2019jcyj-msxmX0473(to FC).
摘要Our previous study demonstrated that combined transplantation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and retinal progenitor cells in rats has therapeutic effects on retinal degeneration that are superior to transplantation of retinal progenitor cells alone.Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells regulate and interact with various cells in the retinal microenvironment by secreting neurotrophic factors and extracellular vesicles.Small extracellular vesicles derived from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells,which offer low immunogenicity,minimal tumorigenic risk,and ease of transportation,have been utilized in the treatment of various neurological diseases.These vesicles exhibit various activities,including anti-inflammatory actions,promotion of tissue repair,and immune regulation.Therefore,novel strategies using human retinal progenitor cells combined with bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell-derived small extracellular vesicles may represent an innovation in stem cell therapy for retinal degeneration.In this study,we developed such an approach utilizing retinal progenitor cells combined with bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell-derived small extracellular vesicles to treat retinal degeneration in Royal College of Surgeons rats,a genetic model of retinal degeneration.Our findings revealed that the combination of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell-derived small extracellular vesicles and retinal progenitor cells significantly improved visual function in these rats.The addition of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell-derived small extracellular vesicles as adjuvants to stem cell transplantation with retinal progenitor cells enhanced the survival,migration,and differentiation of the exogenous retinal progenitor cells.Concurrently,these small extracellular vesicles inhibited the activation of regional microglia,promoted the migration of transplanted retinal progenitor cells to the inner nuclear layer of the retina,and facilitated their differentiation into photoreceptors and bipolar cells.These findings suggest that bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell-derived small extracellular vesicles potentiate the therapeutic efficacy of retinal progenitor cells in retinal degeneration by promoting their survival and differentiation.
摘要AIM:To examine the ocular toxicity linked to sildenafilusage and the possible protective benefits of adenosinetriphosphate(ATP)against this toxicity in rats.METHODS:Twenty-four male albino Wistar-type ratswere divided into four equal groups(n=6/group)as follows:healthy group(HG),ATP-only group(ATPG),sildenafil-onlygroup(SILG),and ATP+sildenafil group(ATP+SLD).ATPG andATP+SLD groups were injected intraperitoneally with ATP(4 mg/kg),while SILG and HG groups were injected withsaline(0.9%NaCl)by the same route as a solvent.One hourafter the administration of ATP and solvent,sildenafil(10 m g/k g)was administered orally to the SILG andATP+SLD groups.This procedure was repeated once a dayfor 4wk.The animals were then sacrificed,eyeballs wereremoved and oxidant and antioxidant parameters weremeasured biochemically.Additionally,the ocular tissueswere evaluated histopathologically.RESULTS:Sildenafil increased oxidant(malondialdehyde)levels and decreased antioxidant levels(total glutathione,superoxide dismutase,catalase)in rat ocular tissues andcaused severe oxidative stress.In addition,sildenafil hasbeen shown histopathologically to cause oxidative damagein retinal layers.ATP treatment suppressed oxidative stressand attenuated histopathological damage in the retinal layers.CONCLUSION:ATP protects retinal tissue againstsildenafil-induced ocular oxidative damage in rats andmay contribute to the development of novel approaches toprevent or treat this damage.
基金financially assisted to Timanshi Chansoriya of the fellowship grant of UGC-NFPwD,New Delhi sanctioned vide UGC F.No.01-01/2019-Sch dated 06.11.2020(Serial No.352 ID:NFPWD-2018-20-UTP-6522).
摘要Objective:To investigate the sterilizing potential of zinc gluconate,calcium chloride(CaCl2)and cadmium chloride(CdCl2)following a single intratesticular administration in adult male rats.Methods:60 adult male Wistar albino rats(Rattus norvegicus)weighing 160-200 g and aged 5-6 months randomly received a single intratesticular injection of normal saline(Group A),zinc gluconate 13.3 mg/mL plus L-Arginine(Group B),20%CaCl2(Group C),and CdCl20.5 mg/kg body weight plus ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid(EDTA)(Group D),respectively,along the entire route from the caudoventral aspect of each testis.They were euthanized up to 180 days to evaluate reproductive tract toxicology.Results:The reproductive organ weights were markedly reduced,with testes severely atrophied in group B,pea-sized and stony hard in group C,and moderately reduced in group D.Azoospermia was evident in groups B and C,while sperm concentration was reduced to<1 million/mL with zero sperm motility in group D.Rats of groups B and C failed to show mounting and copulatory behaviour.A completely disorganized mesh of cellular elements was observed in the seminiferous tubules of group B,while pyknotic germ cell and arrest of spermatogenesis,exfoliated germ cells,occasional syncytial bodies and smaller Leydig cells were evident in groups C and D.Significantly reduced testosterone levels,increased luteinizing hormone(LH)and follicle-stimulating hormone(FSH)levels,returned to normal after 90 days in group D.Conclusions:Zinc gluconate and CaCl2injections severely affected the reproductive organs and libido and rats treated with CdCl2exhibited diminished spermatogenesis with normal libido.Thus,the need-based selection of intratesticular agents should consider their distinct effects on spermatogenesis,libido,and hormonal balance for achieving targeted sterilization outcomes.
基金Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Innovation Fund for Medical Sciences,Grant/Award Number:2021-I2M-1-024,2022-I2M-1-020 and 2023-I2M-2-001The Non-profit Central Research Institute Fund of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences,Grant/Award Number:2023-PT180-01+3 种基金Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem Innovation Fund,Grant/Award Number:HH24KYZX0007Open Research Project in State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling(Peking University),Grant/Award Number:202411State Key Laboratory Special Fund,Grant/Award Number:2060204National Key R&D Program of China,Grant/Award Number:2022YFF0710702。
摘要Background:Mitochondrial DNA(mtDNA)mutations are implicated in a wide range of diseases,underscoring the need to elucidate the relationship between mtDNA mutations and disease pathology.These diseases are often characterized by the presence of multiple mutations;however,research has been hampered by the lack of suitable animal models carrying multiplex mtDNA mutations.Such models cannot be produced through traditional breeding due to matrilineal inheritance of mtDNA.Methods:Based on the TALE-based mitochondrial genome editing tools,we generated rats harboring multiple mtDNA mutations by microinjecting mixed pairs of DdCBE plasmids into one-cell-stage zygotes.The efficiency of mtDNA editing and the potential off-target effects were assessed through deep sequencing and long reads sequencing methodologies.Results:In this study,we established double-and triple-site mutant rats with the editing efficiencies of up to 58.5%and confirmed that these mutations can be stably transmitted through the germline.Moreover,our results demonstrated that DdCBE-mediated mtDNA multi-site editing of mtDNA exhibits minimal off-target effects in both the mitochondrial and nuclear genomes in vivo.Conclusion:This work represents the first successful generation of heritable multi-site mtDNA mutant rats,providing a valuable model for elucidating the pathophysiological mechanisms of mitochondrial disorders and for developing potential therapeutics.
摘要BACKGROUND Diabetes is an endocrinopathy characterized by the inability to produce insulin or insufficient insulin production because of the destruction of beta cells in the pancreas caused by autoimmune or other epidemiological factors.Diabetes can lead to physical and psychological complications.AIM To investigate early behavioral changes in an experimental diabetes model in juvenile rats.METHODS In this study,a total of 14 juvenile male Wistar rats(7 rats per group)were used.To induce the diabetes model,120 mg/kg streptozotocin(STZ)was administered,while the control group received 1 mL/kg physiological saline.The open field test and the hole-board test were performed for five minutes each.Unpaired comparisons were evaluated using Student’s t test or the Mann-Whitney U test.Correlations were analyzed using the Pearson test.RESULTS Severe hyperglycemia was observed in rats in the diabetes mellitus model induced by STZ,and all diabetic rats displayed glucose levels above 400 mg/dL.In the open-field test,the time spent in the central area,the number of rearings,and the total distance traveled were significantly lower in diabetic rats than in naive rats(P<0.05).In the hole-board test,the duration and frequency of total head dipping were considerably lower in diabetic rats than in healthy rats(P<0.01).The grooming time(P<0.01)and freezing time(P<0.0001)increased dramatically in the diabetes mellitus group.A remarkable correlation was found between behavioral changes and hyperglycemia.CONCLUSION Our data indicate that early-stage diabetes induced by STZ increases anxiety-like behaviors and impairs exploratory behaviors.These behavioral changes may also occur in children with undiagnosed or untreated hyperglycemia and can provide important clues in clinical practice.
摘要[Objectives]To observe the effect of Shenfu Injection on regional cerebral blood flow(RCBF)in a rat model of acute cerebral infarction.[Methods]Thirty Sprague-Dawley(SD)rats were randomly assigned to three groups:control group,model group,and Shenfu Injection group(administered via tail vein injection at 2 mL/100 g body weight).The model was established using the middle cerebral artery occlusion(MCAO)method,and electroencephalogram(EEG)spike amplitude and RCBF were measured at 0,30,and 60 min,as well as 1,3,and 6 d post-reperfusion.[Results]Compared with the model group,the Shenfu Injection group exhibited significantly increased RCBF on day 3 and 6(P<0.05)and significantly decreased EEG spike amplitude on day 1,3,and 6(P<0.05).[Conclusions]Shenfu Injection improves regional cerebral blood flow in rats with acute cerebral infarction,potentially through mechanisms involving suppression of abnormal electrical discharges and dilatation of microvessels.
基金VEGA,Grant/Award Number:2/0087/22APVV,Grant/Award Number:20-0411Slovak Recovery and Resilience Plan,Grant/Award Number:09I05-03-V02-00048,。
摘要Background:Zucker diabetic fatty(ZDF)rats exhibit significant phenotypic variability despite genetic uniformity,yet a comprehensive characterization of these divergent phenotypes remains limited.Methods:Male ZDF(fa/fa)rats(4 months,n=22)and ZDF(fa/+)lean controls(n=10)were maintained on standard chow for 6 months.Based on metabolic trajectory,ZDF(fa/fa)rats were stratified into three phenotypes:obese normoglycemic(O,n=8),dia-betic with cachexia(D,n=8),and diabetic without cachexia(D-C,n=6).Comprehensive assessments included body weight,glycemic control,hepatic function,oxidative stress markers,and inflammatory cytokines.Results:Principal coordinate analysis confirmed significant metabolic separation between phenotypes(p25 mmol/L),insulin depletion,elevated hepatic enzymes(alanine ami-notransferase[ALT]increased 2.5-fold,p<0.01),elevated interleukin-6,and delayed pain response.Diabetic rats without cachexia(D-C)exhibited intermediate hypergly-cemia(≈13 mmol/L,p<0.001 vs.control)with preserved insulin levels,and elevated fibroblast growth factor 21(FGF21)and soluble receptor for advanced glycation end products(sRAGE).Obese normoglycemic(O)rats maintained normoglycemia with hy-perinsulinemia and elevated triglycerides.Conclusion:Under identical genetic and environmental conditions,ZDF(fa/fa)rats de-velop distinct metabolic phenotypes encompassing euglycemic obesity,pre-cachectic diabetes,and advanced cachectic diabetes.Phenotypic stratification is essential for accurate interpretation of ZDF experimental data and underscores the importance of characterizing individual metabolic trajectories when diabetic complications and therapeutic interventions are assessed in this model.
基金National Research Foundation,Grant/Award Number:129530。
摘要Background:Atherosclerosis begins with dyslipidemia,vascular inflammation,and en-dothelial dysfunction.Rodent models that capture these early events are needed for mechanistic and interventional studies.This study evaluated whether a cholesterol-rich,high-fat diet(HFD)supplemented with vitamin D and propylthiouracil(PTU)promotes a pro-atherogenic phenotype in rats,as evidenced by dyslipidemia,inflam-mation,markers of endothelial dysfunction,and early vascular remodeling.Methods:Male Sprague-Dawley rats(n=18)received standard chow or a HFD con-taining 2%cholesterol,3%lard,0.5%cholate,vitamin D(200000 IU/kg),and PTU(0.2%w/w)for 11 weeks.Terminal serum total cholesterol,high-density lipoprotein,low-density lipoprotein(LDL)/very low-density lipoprotein(VLDL),triglycerides,calcium,interleukin-6(IL-6),C-reactive protein,serum amyloid A(SAA),circulating endothelial nitric oxide synthase(eNOS),and intracellular adhesion molecule-1(ICAM-1)were measured.The aorta,the coronary arteries,and the liver were examined histologically.Results:HFD-fed rats developed significant hypercholesterolemia with higher total cholesterol and LDL/VLDL(p<0.0001)and lower triglycerides(p<0.0001)versus controls.Serum calcium was higher(p<0.0001)without vascular calcification.Aortae exhibited wall thickening,smooth-muscle disarray,mononuclear infiltrates,and focal foam cell-like changes;coronary arteries exhibited endothelial irregularities and perivascular infiltrates.Livers exhibited micro-and macrovesicular steatosis.IL-6 and SAA were higher(p<0.05),and circulating eNOS was lower(p<0.05);ICAM-1 did not differ significantly.Conclusion:An 11-week vitamin D/PTU-supplemented HFD induces an LDL-dominant dyslipidemia with systemic inflammation and evidence consistent with endothelial dysfunction,alongside histological features of early vascular remodeling and hepatic steatosis.This nongenetic model may be useful for studying early atherogenic changes.
摘要AIM:To investigate the effects of zingerone(ZO)on the retina in diabetic rats.METHODS:A total of 70 rats were randomly selected and divided into seven groups[diabetic group(Dm+;n=10),diabetic+metformin group(Dm+Met;n=10),diabetic+ZO25 group(Dm+ZO25;n=10),diabetic+ZO50 group(Dm+ZO50;n=10),diabetic+metformin group+ZO 50 Group(Dm+Met+ZO50;n=10)].Diabetes was induced by streptozotocin(STZ),and metformin and two different doses of ZO were administered via gavage.Retinal tissues were evaluated by histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses.RESULTS:In diabetic rats,severe retinal inflammation,tissue necrosis,and increased tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α)expression were observed.ZO administration reduced these effects in a dose-dependent manner.Protective effects of metformin alone were limited,and no synergistic benefit was observed in ZO+Met groups.Administration of 50 mg/kg ZO to non-diabetic rats caused no retinal toxicity.Additionally,elevated 8-OHdG and c-Jun N-terminal kinase(JNK)expressions in diabetic retinopathy models were significantly reduced by ZO treatment.CONCLUSION:ZO can markedly reduce the pathological effects of the retina in a diabetic rat model.
摘要This study aims to establish a theoretical foundation for selecting and constructing animal models in clinical research on spine-related diseases.By establishing surgical models in three experimental animal species—mice,rats,and rabbits—we compare their respective advantages and disadvantages.First,three experimental animals of each of the three species were selected in good health.Subsequently,the experimental animals were dissected and several indices of the designated intervertebral discs and the height of the adjacent vertebrae were measured.At the same time,the ease of the surgical operation was assessed intraoperatively(in terms of the ease of preoperative localization,the clarity of the intraoperative structures,and the length of the surgical operation).In addition,the animal type most suitable for the construction of a spinal fusion surgery model was evaluated.Finally,a rabbit spinal fusion surgical model was constructed and evaluated by palpation and gross view of the tissue to assess the degree of spinal fusion.The data on the disc structure of rabbits have more advantages than those of mice and rats in constructing surgical models,with easier preoperative localization,more precise intraoperative structure,and shorter surgery time.Spinal fusion surgery in rabbits was successful,with a significant trend toward fusion at 4 weeks postoperatively.Rabbits were superior to mice and rats as experimental animals for establishing spinal fusion surgery models,and the fusion models were effective.
基金Supported by the Key Research and Development Program of Shaanxi,No.2024SF-YBXM-447the Institutional Foundation of The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University,No.2022MS-07the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities,No.xzy022023068.
摘要BACKGROUND Magnetic compression anastomosis(MCA)offers a simple and reliable technique for inducing anastomoses at any point along the digestive tract.Evidence regarding whether the design of the MCA device influences the anastomosis effect is lacking.AIM To investigate any difference in the side-to-side colonic anastomosis effect achieved with cylindrical vs circular ring magnets.METHODS We designed cylindrical and circular ring magnets suitable for side-to-side colonic anastomosis in rats.Thirty Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into a cylindrical group,circular ring group,and cylindrical–circular ring group(n=10/group).Side-to-side colonic anastomosis was completed by transanal insertion of the magnets without incision of the colon.Operation time,perioperative complications,and magnet discharge time were recorded.Rats were euthanized 4 weeks postoperatively,and anastomotic specimens were obtained.The burst pressure and anastomotic diameter were measured sequentially,and anastomosis formation was observed by naked eye.Histological results were observed by light microscopy.RESULTS In all 30 rats,side-to-side colonic anastomosis was completed,for an operation success rate of 100%.No postoperative complications of bleeding and intestinal obstruction occurred,and the postoperative survival rate were 100%.The operation time,magnet discharge time,anastomotic bursting pressure,and anastomotic diameter did not differ significantly among the three designs(P>0.05).Healing was similar across the groups,with gross specimens showing good anastomotic healing and good mucosal continuity observed on histological analysis.CONCLUSION This study found no significant difference in the establishment of rat side-to-side colonic anastomosis with the use of cylindrical vs circular ring magnets.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China(U21A20411)Innovative Research Group Program of Hunan Provincial Natural Science Foundation (2024JJ1007)Hunan Provincial Natural Science Foundation(2023JJ30473)。
摘要Objective To investigate the effects of Zuogui Jiangtang Yishen Formula(左归降糖益肾方,ZGJTYSF)in regulating the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor protein 3(NLRP3)/caspase-1/gasdermin D(GSDMD)signaling axis on pyroptosis in rats with diabetic kidney disease(DKD).Methods Fifty male specific pathogen-free(SPF)grade Goto-Kakizaki(GK)rats(12 weeks old)were fed a high-fat diet for one month to establish an early DKD model.Model establishment was confirmed when fasting blood glucose(FBG)≥11.1 mmol/L and urinary albuminto-creatinine ratio(uACR)≥30 mg/g.The successfully modeled early DKD rats were randomly divided by random number table into five groups(n=10 per group):model group;dapagliflozin group(1.0 mg/kg,by gavage,served as positive control);and low-,medium-,and high-dose of ZGJTYSF groups(4.9,9.9,and 19.9 g/kg,respectively,by gavage).Age-matched male SPF Wistar rats(n=10)served as control group.Rats in control and model groups were gavaged with equivalent volumes of distilled water.Treatment lasted 12 weeks.Changes in uACR,FBG,and renal function were observed in all groups.Hematoxylin-eosin(HE),periodic acid-Schiff(PAS),and Masson staining were used to observe renal histopathological changes.Immunohistochemistry was performed to detect the localization and expression of caspase-1,GSDMD,and NLRP3 in rat renal tissues.Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase deoxyuridine triphosphate(dUTP)nick end labeling(TUNEL)was utilized to detect pyroptosis in renal tissues.Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(qPCR)and Western blot were applied to detect mRNA and protein expression levels of NLRP3,caspase-1,GSDMD,interleukin(IL)-1β,and IL-18.Results Compared with model group,all doses of ZGJTYSF showed reductions in FBG,with medium-and high-dose of ZGJTYSF groups demonstrating significant decreases at week 8 and 12(P0.05).No significant differences in renal function parameters(serum creatinine,blood urea nitrogen,and uric acid)were observed among groups(P>0.05).Histopathological examination revealed milder glomerular and tubular lesions in both ZGJTYSF groups and dapagliflozin group,with renal pathological changes in high-dose of ZGJTYSF group resembling those in dapagliflozin group.Immunohistochemistry demonstrated significantly reduced expression of caspase-1,GSDMD,and NLRP3 in renal tissues of dapagliflozin group and high-dose of ZGJTYSF group compared with model group(P0.05).TUNEL assay showed significantly fewer TUNEL-positive cells in renal tissues of dapagliflozin and high-dose of ZGJTYSF groups(P0.05).Conclusion ZGJTYSF may inhibit renal pyroptosis by regulating the NLRP3/caspase-1/GSDMD signaling axis,thereby preventing and treating early renal injury in DKD and delaying the onset and progression of DKD.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32060199,32360197,31971035,and 31771182)the Jiangxi Province Natural Science Foundation(20224ACB206016).
摘要Humans and animals have a fundamental ability to use experiences and environmental information to organize behavior.It often happens that humans and animals make decisions and prepare actions under uncertain situations.Uncertainty would significantly affect the state of animals’minds,but may not be reflected in behavior.How to“read animals’mind state”under different situations is a challenge.Here,we report that neuronal activity in the medial prefrontal cortex(mPFC)of rats can reflect the environmental uncertainty when the task situation changes from certain to uncertain.Rats were trained to perform behavioral tasks under certain and uncertain situations.Under certain situations,rats were required to simply repeat two nose-poking actions that each triggered short auditory tone feedback(single-task situation).Whereas under the uncertain situation,the feedback could randomly be either the previous tone or a short musical rhythm.No additional action was required upon the music feedback,and the same secondary nose-poking action was required upon the tone feedback(dual-task situation);therefore,the coming task was uncertain before action initiation.We recorded single-unit activity from the mPFC when the rats were performing the tasks.We found that in the dual task,when uncertainty was introduced,many mPFC neurons were actively engaged in dealing with the uncertainty before the task initiation,suggesting that the rats could be aware of the task situation change and encode the information in the mPFC before the action of task initiation.
基金Supported by Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine In-hospital Project(No.2021YJKT-20)Hubei Provincial Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine,Bureau-level Project(No.ZY2023F008)Hubei Science and Technology Department,General Project(No.2025AFB786).
摘要AIM:To investigate the functions and potential mechanisms of obtusifolin in dry eye disease(DED)in a rat model.METHODS:A rat DED model was established via topical administration of benzalkonium chloride(BAC),followed by administration of obtusifolin.Conjunctival irritation score and tear production were measured to evaluate DED symptoms.Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA)was employed for determining inflammatory cytokine levels in rat conjunctiva.Periodic acid-Schiff staining and corneal fluorescein staining were implemented for assessing goblet cell numbers and corneal epithelial defects,respectively.Western blotting showed zonula occludens-1(ZO-1),matrix metalloproteinase-9(MMP-9),and mitogen-activated protein kinase(MAPK)uclear factor kappa B(NF-κB)signaling-related protein levels in the conjunctiva.RESULTS:Topical application of obtusifolin alleviated conjunctival irritation and enhanced tear production in BAC-induced DED rats.Obtusifolin attenuated conjunctival inflammatory response and goblet cell loss as well as corneal epithelial barrier disruption in DED rats.Obtusifolin suppressed extracellular signal-regulated kinase(ERK),p38,and NF-κB phosphorylation in the conjunctiva of DED rats.CONCLUSION:Obtusifolin ameliorates DED in rats possibly by alleviating inflammation via the inactivation of MAPK/NF-κB signaling.
基金supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Sichuan Province(2023NSFSC1799)the Science and Technology Development Fund of the Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine(23YY07)National Natural Science Foundation of China(82405413).
摘要Background:Obesity represents a major public health issue,closely linked to a range of metabolic and reproductive disorders.Electroacupuncture(EA)has emerged as a potential non-pharmacological intervention that may alleviate complications associated with obesity,including reproductive dysfunction.Objectives:This study sought to evaluate the impact of EA on leptin/kisspeptin signaling pathways and hypothalamic inflammation in obese male rats,with the aim of elucidating its potential mechanisms in mitigating reproductive disorders related to obesity.Methods:Forty male Wistar rats were allocated into two groups:a regular diet(RD,n=10)group and a high-fat diet(HFD,n=30)group.Following an 8-week period,23 out of the 30 rats in the HFD group satisfied the criteria for the obesity model,characterized by a body weight surpassing 20%of the average body weight of the RD group.From these 23 obese rats,20 were randomly selected and further subdivided into the Model(n=10)and EA(n=10)groups.The EA group underwent EA treatment at the Zusanli(ST36),Shenshu(BL23),and Sanyinjiao(SP6)acupoints over a duration of 4 weeks.The study assessed parameters including body weight,serum lipid levels,reproductive hormone levels,hypothalamic histology,inflammation markers,and neurotransmitter levels.Results:EA treatment significantly reduced body weight,improved lipid profiles,and restored hormone levels towards those seen in control animals.Histological analysis showed improved neuronal integrity and a shift in microglial polarization towards an anti-inflammatory phenotype in the EA group.EA treatment was associated with improvements in leptin and kisspeptin signaling activity,which may contribute to its beneficial effects on reproductive function in obese male rats.Neurotransmitter profiling and untargeted serum metabolomics revealed significant improvements in metabolic pathways related to amino acid and lipid metabolism,including key pathways associated with dopamine,serotonin,and glutamine.Conclusions:EA significantly alleviated obesity-induced reproductive dysfunction by modulating leptin and kisspeptin signaling,reducing hypothalamic inflammation,and improving neurotransmitter and serum metabolic profiles,suggesting its potential as a therapeutic strategy for reproductive issues related to obesity.Additional research is essential to investigate the molecular pathways of EA and assess its clinical applicability.
基金Supported by the Beijing Natural Science Foundation,No.7232289.
摘要BACKGROUND Insomnia is closely associated with anxiety and depression,with its pathogenesis involving biological,psychological,and social factors.Sini powder and Suanzaoren decoction are clinically effective traditional Chinese medicine formulas for insomnia,demonstrating promising bioactivity.However,the capability of the active components of Sini-Suanzaoren decoction(SNSZRD)to cross the bloodbrain barrier(BBB)and their precise molecular mechanisms,particularly concerning the MT-SIRT1 pathway and mitochondrial function,remain largely unexplored.AIM To elucidate the bioactive components of SNSZRD that are capable of BBB penetration and investigate the therapeutic mechanism of SNSZRD against insomnia.METHODS The chemical components of SNSZRD were analyzed through liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry(LC-MS).Male Sprague-Dawley rats were intraperitoneally injected with DL-4-chlorophenylalanine(PCPA)to establish an insomnia model.Rats were divided into control,model,eszopiclone(positive control),and SNSZRD low-/medium-/high-dose groups.Molecular docking predicted BBBpenetrating components and their binding affinity for SIRT1.Key pathways were analyzed through open-field tests,elevated plus-maze tests,pentobarbital-induced sleep experiments,Haematoxylin and eosin staining,Nissl staining,ELISA,Western blot analysis,quantitative real-time PCR,and immunohistochemistry.RESULTS LC-MS identified 1574 compounds in SNSZRD,of which eight prototype components(e.g.,pachymic acid and senkyunolide G)could cross the BBB.Molecular docking revealed that these components formed stable hydrogen bonds with the SIRT1 protein.SNSZRD treatment significantly ameliorated PCPA-induced anxiety-like behaviors and sleep latency/sleep duration,as well as reduced neuronal degeneration and Nissl body loss in the hypothalamus of treated rats.Additionally,SNSZRD elevated serum melatonin and hypothalamus ATP levels and upregulated the mRNA and protein expression levels of arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase,SIRT1,PPARγcoactivator-1α,nuclear respiratory factor-1,and mitochondrial transcription factor A in the MT-SIRT1-mitochondrial biogenesis pathway.CONCLUSION SNSZRD might exert its therapeutic effects on insomnia by modulating MT-SIRT1 axis-regulated mitochondrial biogenesis in rats and might serve as an effective therapeutic agent for insomnia.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32272332,31972052,32021005,31820103010)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(JUSRP622020,JUSRP22006,JUSRP51501)the Program of Collaborative Innovation Centre of Food Safety and Quality Control in Jiangsu Province,Postgraduate Research&Practice Innovation Program of Jiangsu Province(KYCX22_2391).
摘要Infants exhibit diminished susceptibility to external infections,a phenomenon closely linked to the pervasive presence of the bifidobacterial community within their intestinal tract.Nonetheless,a significant knowledge gap remains concerning the distinct species of bifidobacteria initiating anti-infection immune responses during the early developmental stages.In this study,the impact of early intervention with Bifidobacterium bifidum,Bifidobacterium breve,and Bifidobacterium longum on neonatal rats infected with Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium SL1344 were compared.The study encompasses various immunity levels,including gut immunity,central immunity(thymus),peripheral immunity(spleen),and brain immunity.Following Salmonella infection,significant alterations in neonatal rats were observed in growth and developmental levels,immune markers,cytokine levels,balance of T lymphocyte subpopulations,intestinal barrier function,and blood-brain barrier integrity.Compared with B.breve and B.longum,B.bifidum demonstrated more pronounced efficacy in regulating these physiological processes.By conducting multi-level analyses of gut microbiota,bifidobacterial community,colonic content metabolomics,and serum metabolomics,the significance of B.bifidum’s role is underscored,and the immune-enhancing function of messenger metabolites is unveiled.Among these metabolites,γ-L-glutamyl-L-glutamic acid and orotic acid were found to be shared by all 3 species,while hippuric acid and 1a,1b-dihomo prostaglandin F2αwere unique to B.bifidum,and DL-arginine was specific to B.longum.Overall,this study has provided novel insights into the intervention and immunomodulation by Bifidobacterium in early-life infections,emphasizing the significant role of B.bifidum.
基金funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32001676)the Young Elite Scientists Sponsorship Program by China Association for Science and Technology(CAST)(2022QNRC001).
摘要The prevalence of iron deficiency anemia(IDA)remains high in infants,resulting in growth retardation,neurodevelopmental impairment,immunodeficiency and other irreversible injuries.Efficient and safe iron supplementation for infants has been the goal of recent research.This study aims to investigate the effect of encapsulated ferric pyrophosphate(FePP)on intestinal inflammation and gut microbiota in IDA suckling rats.Newborn Sprague-Dawley rats were gavaged with low and high doses of FePP and FeSO4(2 and 10 mg Fe/kg BW,respectively)during postnatal days 2-14,while the Ctrl group was gavaged with saline.Results showed that FePP supplementation was as effective as FeSO4 in promoting growth,alleviating anemia and restoring body iron levels.Both low and high doses of FePP could significantly down-regulate the expression of pro inflammatory cytokines in the colon to the level similar to that in the Ctrl group(P>0.05).However,the high dose of FeSO4 did not show a down-regulation effect.Compared with the Ctrl group,IDA caused a disturbance of gut microbiota composition in suckling rats,and FePP could restore this dysbiosis.Besides,FePP was more beneficial than FeSO4 in increasing the abundance of beneficial bacteria such as Bacteroides and Akkermansia.Spearman’s correlation analysis showed a correlation between gut microbiota and biochemical indicators such as iron status,pro-inflammatory cytokine expression,and oxidative stress level.Overall,these findings suggested that FePP could effectively improve IDA,and is more effective than FeSO4 in alleviating intestinal inflammation and regulating gut microbiota,which provides a basis for the application of new iron fortificant in infant formula.
摘要ZSF1 lean rats are widely used as controls in cardiometabolic studies involving ZSF1 obese rats,which develop a cardiometabolic syndrome and diastolic dysfunction at a young age due to a double leptin receptor mutation(Leprcpand Leprfa).Although,lean littermates show no overt signs of cardiometabolic disease or diastolic impact,they belong to one of three genotypic variants,two of which carry one of the mutant Lepr alleles and,thus,doubt has been raised about their suitability as healthy controls.We compared 32-week-old female ZSF1 lean and Wistar rats regarding physiological,myocardial,vascular,skeletal muscle,and mitochondrial characteristics.Lean rats showed lower body weight but increased heart,kidney,and skeletal muscle mass.Despite thicker ventricular walls,systolic and diastolic function were preserved.Hemodynamically measured contractility was higher as underpinned by a higher mitochondrial respiratory capacity of LV fibers.However,left ventricular filling pressure was elevated,accompanied by increased ventricular stiffness.Endothelial function was preserved,but smooth muscle responsiveness was reduced,indicated by impaired SNP-induced relaxation.Passive vascular stiffness mediated by collagenous fibers was significantly higher in lean rats.Skeletal muscle function was mostly preserved,though maximal specific force of the EDL was reduced.Taken together,ZSF1 lean rats are physiologically different from Wistar rats as they display enlarged myocardial dimensions accompanied by increased blood pressure and an incipient diastolic and vascular stiffness.Therefore,our data indicate an early phase of passive compliance disorder in ZSF1 lean animals,which might become more pronounced at an advanced age.