Arch Med Sci
-
Oridonin, which is isolated from the Chinese herb Rabdosia rubescens, has been reported to exhibit an anti-tumorous effect on different cancers. In this study, we investigated the molecular mechanism by which oridonin suppresses human ovarian cancer. ⋯ These results suggested that oridonin suppressed the mTOR signaling pathway, up-regulated the FOXP3 level, and inhibited metastasis of human ovarian cancer cells.
-
First-degree relatives of individuals with premature coronary artery disease (CAD) are at increased risk of CAD. The research hypothesis of this project assumes that there are differences in the metabolic profiles between individuals with and without a positive family history (FH) of premature CAD. ⋯ This study will deepen our knowledge of the aetiopathogenesis of atherosclerosis by identifying metabolic patterns associated with a positive FH of premature CAD. Obtaining a detailed FH will enable adjustments for major risk factors of premature CAD in the proband's first-degree relatives. This research project also provides a chance to discover new biomarkers associated with the risk of premature CAD.
-
This study aimed to evaluate the relationship of plasma microfibrillar-associated protein 4 (MFAP4) to atrial fibrillation (AF) and atrial structural remodelling. ⋯ Plasma MFAP4 was increased in patients with AF and was highest in those with PersAF; both plasma MFAP4 and atrial MFAP4 protein expression were directly associated with the extent of LA structural remodelling.
-
Immune system activation, microvascular abnormalities and extracellular matrix deposition in tissues play roles in systemic sclerosis (SSc). Th17 cells producing interleukin (IL)-17 are involved in the pathogenesis of many autoimmune-mediated inflammatory diseases; however, the role of IL-17 in SSc remains unclear. ⋯ Increased synthesis of IL-17B, IL-17E and IL-17F appears to play a role in the pathogenesis of SSc, in contrast to IL-17A. Higher levels of IL-17B and IL-17E are associated with the development of both lSSc and dSSc, whereas IL-17F is associated with lSSc only. Further studies are needed to elucidate their role in the pathogenesis of the disease.
-
The aim of the study was to investigate the mRNA expression and protein levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) 2 (MMP-2), 9 (MMP-9), 7 (MMP-7) and their tissue inhibitor TIMP-2 in patients with laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma and control subjects and additionally to evaluate a possible correlation with clinicopathological features. ⋯ The results may suggest that MMPs and TIMP-2 are associated with laryngeal tumorigenesis, but we did not find any distinct correlation between the clinicopathological features of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma patients and expression levels of MMPs and TIMP. The results suggest that the measurement of serum MMP-2, MMP-7, MMP-9 and TIMP-2 concentration might be helpful to diagnose laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma.