Table of Content

2023, Volume 54 Issue 1
06 February 2023 Previous Issue    Next Issue
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Anthropology
Anatomy
Cell and Molecules Biology
Technology and Methodology
Neurobiology
Technology and Methodology
Neurobiology
Histology,Embryology and Developmental Biology


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Anthropology

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Body characteristics of adults from 17 minorities of the Tibeto-Burman language group in China GAO Wen-fang ZHENG Lian-bin XU Fei ZHANG Xing-hua YU Ke-li 2023, 54 (1):  104-112.  doi: 10.16098/j.issn.0529-1356.2023.01.016 Abstract ( )   PDF (1317KB) ( )   Objective To understand the body characteristics of adults from the Tibeto-Burman language group.   Methods Totally 14 837 adults (6578 males and 8259 females) from 17 minorities were selected for investigation during 2015 to 2019 and these surveys were carried out in regions including Sichuan, Yunnan, Guizhou, Hubei, Hunan and Tibet Autonomous Region. Eight physical parameters (stature, sitting height, etc.) along with 4 corresponding indexes (stature-sitting index and the like) were carefully analyzed. The body characteristics of the Tibeto-Burman language group were then compared to those of certain minorities as well as Han in both northern and southern part of China based on our collected data.   Results Among 17 minorities of the Tibeto-Burman language group, people from Pumi and Tibet were relatively tall and have longer trunk and limbs. The presence of wider trunk and thicker limbs appeared to be common in Tibetan individuals. Subjects from Lahu, Jino and Derung were in possession of shorter stature and limbs while the trunk of Naxi, Lisu and Achang people seemed wider. Compared with other ethnic groups in China, individuals from the Tibeto-Burman language group tended to own shorter stature accompanied by medium trunk width, probably sharing similar physical characteristics with those minorities in southern China, especially She and Li.   Conclusion Among ethnic groups dotting in southern China, individuals from the Tibeto-Burman language group generally have medium stature, medium trunk height, and wide trunk whereas those from 3 Mon-Khmer groups, Va, Khmus and Blang, are shorter and smaller in width and height of the trunk.  References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Association between the serum adiponectin levels and body composition in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women OUYANG Si-wei WANG Yu-tang MA Bin FAN Jie HAI Xiang-jun 2023, 54 (1):  113-116.  doi: 10.16098/j.issn.0529-1356.2023.01.017 Abstract ( )   PDF (783KB) ( )   Objective To investigate the relationship between serum adiponectin levels and body composition of perimenopausal and postmenopausal women in central and western Gansu province，and explore the influencing factors of adiponectin levels.  Methods The body weight, body mass index（BMI）,waist-to-hip, fat mass, percentage of body fat, visceral fat mass and muscle mass of 638 women（317 in perimenopausal period and 321 in postmenopausal period）in central and western Gansu were measured by bioelectrical impedance analyzer. Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay （ELISA）was used to measure serum adiponectin levels. Pearson correlation analysis and multiple liner regression were used to investigate the relationship between adiponectin levels and body composition.   Results The body muscle mass of women living in central and western Gansu province showed a downward trend after menopause period compared to those who were in perimenopause. The waist circumference, waist-hip ratio, percentage of body fat, visceral fat mass of postmenopauseal women showed an increasing trend compared to perimenopausal. There were no significant differences in BMI, fat mass and serum adiponectin levels. Overall, serum adiponectin levels were positively correlated with body fat percentage and visceral fat mass, and negatively correlated with muscle mass, and the main influencing factors of serum adiponectin levels were visceral fat mass.  Conclusion The main influencing factors of serum adiponectin levels in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women living in central and western Gansu province are the visceral fat mass. References | Related Articles | Metrics

Anatomy

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Multi-index analysis of regional brain activity in patients with Alzheimer’s disease during resting state XU Lin LIU Xiao-li CHEN Zheng-zhen WEN Cai-yun LI Chang-sheng LI Ru-hua CHEN Dai-qian CHEN Cheng-chun 2023, 54 (1):  75-81.  doi: 10.16098/j.issn.0529-1356.2023.01.011 Abstract ( )   PDF (4592KB) ( )   Objective To investigate the spontaneous neural activity in the brain of patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) used 3 indicators of resting state-functional magnetic resonance (rs-fMRI) amplitude of low frequency fluctuation (ALFF), fractional amplitude of low frequency fluctuation (fALFF) and percentage amplitude fluctuation (PerAF). MethodsTotally 36 clinically diagnosed AD patients and 40 healthy volunteers were scanned by fMRI in resting state respectively. ALFF, fALFF and PerAF were used to calculate and compare the changes of brain regions between the two groups.   Results Compared with the normal control group, mALFF value in AD group increased significantly in bilateral caudate nucleus, medial frontal gyrus, superior frontal gyrus, gyrus rectus, anterior cingulate gyrus, olfactive cortex, left middle frontal gyrus and inferior frontal gyrus (P<0.05). mALFF values decreased significantly in the right middle temporal gyrus, inferior temporal gyrus, inferior occipital gyrus, middle occipital gyrus, bilateral calcarine, cuneus, lingual gyrus, superior occipital gyrus，vermis, precuneus and other regions (P<0.05). In AD group, mfALFF value of right inferior temporal gyrus, anterior cerebellar lobe, fusiform gyrus, left superior frontal gyrus, medial frontal gyrus, middle frontal gyrus, inferior frontal gyrus, gyrus rectus and anterior cingulate gyrus increased significantly (P<0.05); mfALFF values decreased significantly in bilateral lingual gyrus, left calcarine, cuneus, superior occipital gyrus, middle occipital gyrus and vermis (P<0.05). In AD group, mPerAF value incr   eased significantly in bilateral gyrus rectus, anterior cingulate gyrus, medial frontal gyrus, left superior frontal gyrus, caudate nucleus, middle frontal gyrus, inferior frontal gyrus, olfactive cortex and insula (P<0.05); mPerAF values decreased significantly in bilateral calcarine, cuneus, superior occipital gyrus, lingual gyrus, precuneus, left fusiform gyrus, inferior occipital gyrus, right superior parietal lobule, angular gyrus, middle temporal gyrus, inferior temporal gyrus and middle occipital gyrus (P<0.05).   Conclusion The default mode network (DMN) and visual network of AD patients are characterized by abnormal brain activity, with the most significant neural activity in the prefrontal cortex and visual cortex.   References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Morphological classification and clinical significance of the coracoid process based on CT three-dimensional reconstruction GUO Lan-qian WANG Ding-xuan YI Gang LI Yan REN Jie-ying 2023, 54 (1):  82-86.  doi: 10.16098/j.issn.0529-1356.2023.01.012 Abstract ( )   PDF (2424KB) ( )   Objective To provide anatomical basis for clinical treatment of acromioclavicular joint dislocation by studying the morphology of coracoid process of human scapula.   Methods A total of 500 patients with shoulder injury were selected from the Affiliated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Southwest Medical University in Sichuan Province, and 300 patients were selected as subjects, including 159 cases of right shoulder and 141 cases of left shoulder. CT scan images and 3D reconstruction results of scapula of the subjects were collected. The basic morphological characteristics of coracoid process CT images of the subjects were observed, and the relevant parameters were measured, including the longest horizontal distance of the coracoid process tip and the thickness of the midpoint (cd, pp’), the distance from the upper part of the coracoid process scapula to the base and the thickness of the midpoint (mn, kk’). The distance from the apex of the coracoid process to the base of the coracoid process (ab ), the longest horizontal distance of the recursion part of the coracoid process (ef), the distance of as (point s was the intersection of point a perpendicular to mn,   the distance of hj (point h and j were the intersection of the base of the coracoid process and the recursion part respectively), and ik (point i was the intersection of point k perpendicular to mn and the coracoid process retraction).   Results According to the morphological characteristics of coracoid process, they were divided into five types, including peanut 29.7%; Short rod type accounted for 27.4%; Melon seed type accounted for 12.6%; Rod type accounted for 17.0%; Wedge type accounted for 13.3%. Through data comparison, it was found that the distance ef and distance hj on the left were larger than those on the right, P<0.05. All types had statistical difference in comparison distance cd, P<0.05. The melon seed type showed statistical differences with peanut type, wedge type, long stick type and short stick type in thickness pp’, distance ab and as of point p, P<0.05. In the comparison of point K thickness kk’, there was statistical difference between melon seed type and other four types, P<0.05. In the distance ab comparison, there was statistical difference between the short bar type and the other four types, P<0.05.   Conclusion The study on the morphology of coracoid process can provide anatomical basis for clinical reconstruction of coracoid ligament to treat acromioclavicular joint dislocation. References | Related Articles | Metrics

Cell and Molecules Biology

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Effect of bergapten on glucose and oxygen deprivation induced PC12 cell injury by regulating long non-coding RNA opioid receptor gene expression SUN Meng-fang CHENG Yi-sheng WANG Feng JIN Meng-hao WANG De-xiu 2023, 54 (1):  56-62.  doi: 10.16098/j.issn.0529-1356.2023.01.008 Abstract ( )   PDF (2062KB) ( )   Objective To study whether bergapten (BG) protects PC12 cells from oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) induced cell injury by regulating long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) opioid receptor gene (Oprm1) expression.   Methods PC12 cells were divided into control (Con) group, OGD group, OGD+ low concentration BG (BG-L) group, OGD+medium concentration BG (BG-M) group, OGD+high concentration BG (BG-H) group, OGD+ pcDNA group, OGD+pcDNA-Oprm1 group, OGD+BG+si-NC group, OGD+BG+si-Oprm1 group. The malondialdehyde (MDA) content, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities were measured by the kits. Cell apoptosis rate was analysed by flow cytometry. The expression level of Oprm1 was analysed by Real-time PCR.   Results Compared with the Con group, the apoptosis rate and MDA content of PC12 cells in OGD group increased significantly, whereas Oprm1 expression, SOD and GSH-Px activity decreased significantly (P<0.05). Compared with the OGD group, the apoptosis rate and MDA content of PC12 cells in the OGD+BG-L group, OGD+BG-M group, OGD+BG-H group were significantly reduced, whereas the Oprm1 expression, SOD and GSH-Px activities increased significantly (P<0.05). Compared with the OGD+pcDNA group, the apoptosis rate and MDA content of the PC12 cells in the OGD+pcDNA-Oprm1 group reduced significantly, whereas the SOD and GSH-Px activities increased significantly (P<0.05). Compared with the OGD+BG+si-NC group, the apoptosis rate and MDA content of PC12 cells in the OGD+BG+si-Oprm1 group increased significantly, whereas the SOD and GSH-Px activities decreased significantly (P<0.05).   Conclusion Bergapten may alleviate OGD-induced PC12 cell injury, which is correlated to the up-regulation of lncRNA Oprm1 expression. References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Molecular analysis of interleukin 10 promoter region-592A/C polymorphism in hypertensive disorders of pregnancy in Qinghai Han nationality DUAN Qian LI Jian-hua LI Wen-jia WANG Ru WU Zhen YUAN Ming 2023, 54 (1):  63-69.  doi: 10.16098/j.issn.0529-1356.2023.01.009 Abstract ( )   PDF (1625KB) ( )   Objective To investigate the association between the interleukin 10 (IL-10) gene promoter region-592A/C (rs1800872) polymorphism and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) in Han women of Qinghai province and to determine the expression of this gene in two groups (HDP group and healthy control group) preliminarily.   Methods  A total of 140 HDP patients (HDP group) and 140 normal pregnant women (control group) in Qinghai Province were selected. Using blood DNA as template, the IL-10-592A/C polymorphism typing of HDP group and control group was detected by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) and verified by sequencing. The expression of IL-10mRNA in the placental tissues of the two groups was detected by Real-time PCR. Plasma IL-10 levels of the two groups were detected by ELISA.  Results The frequencies of AA, AC and CC genotypes of IL-10 gene in HDP group and control group were 24.29%, 44.29%, 31.42% and 13.57%, 41.43%, 45.00% respectively, the difference in genotype distribution between the two groups was statistically significant (P<0.05);AA genotype frequency in HDP group(24.29%)was higher than that of control group(13.57%)( P<0.05),  CC genotype frequency in HDP group (31.42%) was lower than that in control group (45.00%) (P<0.05), while there was no significant difference in genotype frequency of AC between the two groups (P<0.05); The distribution of A and C allele frequencies of IL-10-592A/C polymorphism was different between the two groups, and the A allele frequency of HDP group was higher than that of control group (χ2=8.079, P<0.05); The expression of IL-10mRNA in the placental tissue of the HDP group was lower than that of the control group (P<0.01); The level of plasma IL-10 in HDP group (1.53 ± 0.68) ng/L was lower than that in control group (1.79 ± 0.72)ng/L (P<0.01). Conclusion IL-10-592A/C polymorphism is associated with HDP in Qinghai Han nationality. The A allele in IL-10-592A/C polymorphism may be involved in the genetic susceptibility to HDP by regulating the expression of IL-10. References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Expression change and role of myeloma cancer gene mRNA, microRNA-540-3p, circular RNA_04996 in the liver inflammatory reaction during the rat liver regeneration ZHANG Chun-bo WANG Gai-ping WANG Zi-hui ZANG Xia-yan XUE Qi-jie LIN Kai-lin HAN Lu WANG Qi-wen XU Cun-shuan 2023, 54 (1):  70-74.  doi: 10.16098/j.issn.0529-1356.2023.01.010 Abstract ( )   PDF (2796KB) ( )   Objective To explore the role pathway and pattern of the transcription factor myeloma cancer gene (MYC) and its mRNA interaction with microRNA(miRNA, miR) and ciccular RNA(circRNAs) at 0 hour and 6 hour in the rat liver regeneration.   Methods The rat 2/3 hepatectomy (partial hepatectomy，PH) model was prepared as described by Higgins, the expression changes of mRNA, miRNA and circRNA ［together named as competing endogenous RNAs(ceRNA)］ of remnant liver were detected by the large-scale quantitative detection technology, the interaction network of ceRNA was constructed by Cytoscape 3.2 software, and their correlation in expression and role were analyzed by ceRNA comprehensive analysis.   Results It was found that at 0 hour and 6 hours after PH, the ratio value of MYC mRNA showed 0.15±0.03 and 2.36±0.20, miR-540-3p displays 3.00±0.43 and 0.79±0.01, circRNA_04996 showed 1.43±0.43 and 3.14±0.94. At the same time, the four kinds of inflammatory reaction-related genes plasminogen activator urokinase receptor (PLAUR), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin 1 receptor type 2 (IL1R2), ect, which were prometed in expression by MYC, were down-regulated at 0 hour after PH, but the inflammatory reaction-related genes natriuretic peptide A (NPPA), nuclear receptor subfamily O group B member 2 (NROB2) and peroxisome proliferator activated receptor alpha (PPARA), which were inhibited in expression by MYC, were up-regulated at 0 hour after PH. On the other hand, the three kinds of inflammatory reaction-related genes PLAUR, TNF, IL1R2, ect, which are prometed in expression by MYC, were up-regulated at 6 hours after PH, but the inflammatory reaction-related genes NPPA, NROB2 and PPARA, which were inhibited   in expression by MYC, were down-regulated at 6 hours after PH.   Conclusion The correlation in expression and role of the miRNA, which are inhibited by circRNAs, MYC, its mRNA is inhibited by miRNAs, and the inflammatory reaction-related genes, which are regulated by MYC, and are helpful for the hepatocyte to be in non-inflammatory reaction state at 0 hour after PH and to be in inflammatory reaction state at 6 hours after PH. References | Related Articles | Metrics

Technology and Methodology

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Brain removal through a posterior incision on the scalp of both ears WANG Jian-wei LIU Huai-cun CHENG Quan-cheng DING Hui-ru SUN Yan-rong GU Pei-liang LUAN Ying-jie ZHANG Jun-wei ZHANG Wei-guang 2023, 54 (1):  123-125.  doi: 10.16098/j.issn.0529-1356.2023.01.019 Abstract ( )   PDF (1345KB) ( )   Objective The traditional round incision or cross incision brain harvesting method  can not meet the requirements of protecting the donor’s remains. In this study, the method  of brain removal through a posterior incision on the scalp of both ears was proposed, which effectively protected the donor’s remains.   Methods Adopting the incision 2.0 cm above the external occipital protuberance to the most front edge of the auricle to obtain a complete brain.   Results The incision did not involve the head and face skin, which was small and conducive to suture repair and reduce exudation.   Conclusion The incision effectively protects the donor’s remains, and it will be conducive to the establishment and development of the brain bank. References | Related Articles | Metrics

Neurobiology

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Preliminary analysis of mRNA and microRNA differential expression profiles in spinal cord regeneration of Gekko japonicus after tail amputation HU Xiao-jing ZHANG Ming-min Lü Guang-ming 2023, 54 (1):  6-12.  doi: 10.16098/j.issn.0529-1356.2023.01.001 Abstract ( )   PDF (11766KB) ( )   Objective To analyze the expression changes of related mRNA and microRNA（miRNA）during spinal cord regeneration after tail amputation of Gekko japonicus, and to explore the biological effects of differentially expressed mRNA and miRNA during spinal cord regeneration.   Methods Fifty Gekko japonicus, the tail amputation model of Gekko japonicus was constructed, divided into normal group, 15days tail amputation group, and 25days tail amputation group, 5 in each group, repeat the experiment 3 times, 5 spare. Samples of each group were collected, RNA of each group was extracted and high-throughput sequencing. Bioinformatics analysis identifies differentially expressed mRNA and miRNA between groups, Gene Ontology(GO) enrichment analysis of differentially expressed mRNA functional annotations, and construction of miRNA and mRNA gene regulatory networks related to spinal cord regeneration.   Results The differential expression of mRNA and miRNA in the normal and newborn spinal cords of Gekko japonicus was analyzed by sequencing. The 15days and 25days tail amputation groups identified 538 and 510 differential mRNA expressions and 446, 127 differential miRNA expressions, respectively. GO analysis found that the differentially expressed mRNA aggregated in biological processes related to cell proliferation and neurodevelopment. In the spinal cord regeneration-related miRNA and its target gene regulatory network, 21 mRNA expression was down-regulated in the 15days tail amputation group, which was regulated negatively by 41 up-regulated miRNAs; 12 mRNA expression was up-regulated and was regulated by 29 down-regulated miRNAs. In the 25days tail amputation group, 8 mRNA expression was down-regulated and regulated negatively by 10 up-regulated miRNAs; 20 mRNA expression was up-regulated and regulated by 32 down-regulated miRNAs.   Conclusion Through the analysis of the differential expression of miRNA and mRNA in the regenerated spinal cord of Gekko japonicus, the expression changes of mRNA and miRNA in spinal cord regeneration were initially revealed, which provided experimental data for elucidating the molecular mechanism of spinal cord regeneration. References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Effects of activating mTORC2/Akt signaling pathway on dopaminergic neurons and behaviors in 6-hydroxydopamin model mice BIAN Wei LI Meng-yi ZHOU Peng LI Jun-wei ZHANG Ting WU An-ting QI Shuang-shuang CUI Huai-rui SUN Chen-you 2023, 54 (1):  13-22.  doi: 10.16098/j.issn.0529-1356.2023.01.002 Abstract ( )   PDF (5087KB) ( )   Objective To explore the effect of activation of mammalian target of rapmycin complex 2(mTORC2)/Akt signaling pathway on dopaminergic neurons and behavior in 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) model mice and its possible mechanism.   Methods Selecting 36 mice which The Nestin-CreERTM and ROSA26-LacZ reporter genes were detected at the same time in 3-month-old male C57BL/6J mice weighing 20-25 g divideng them into 4 gruops, NS+ corn oil group, 6-OHDA+corn oil group, 6-OHDA+PP242 group and 6-OHDA+A-443654 group, and 6-OHDA was injected into the right striatum of the brain to replicate the Parkinson’s disease (PD) model of mice, and then daily intraperitoneal injection of mTORC2/Akt signaling pathway agonist A-443654 or inhibitor PP242. Serum interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α)levels were measured by enzymelinked immunosorbent assay. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence staining were performed to investigate the change of microglia, dopaminergic neurons as well as neural progenitor cells (NPCs). Western blotting was used to detect the expression of related protein of mTORC2/Akt signaling pathway including rictor, p-Akt and regulated in development and DNA dgmage responses 1(REDD1) and the interaction between them were verified by immunoprecipitation. Finally, the behavioral performance of each group of mice was observed.   Results With the activation of microglia and the increase of inflammatory factors in PD model mice, the number of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra(SN) decreased significantly, and the motor function of the mice was impaired, but the number of NPCs increased significantly compared with the control mice, mTORC2/Akt signaling pathway related protein expression was also significantly up-regulated. A-443654 treatment further up-regulated the expression of these proteins, meanwhile the indicators mentioned above were ameliorated. However, the inhibitor PP242 treatment group showed completely opposite result  with the agonist group.   Conclusion A-443654 can promote the proliferation of NPCs and the number of new-born dopaminergic neurons by up-regulating related proteins of mTORC2/Akt signaling pathway, and reducing the activation of microglia and the level of inflammation factors, which ultimately lead to the amelioration of SN-striatal dopaminergic neurons and behavioral performance in PD model mice. References | Related Articles | Metrics

Technology and Methodology

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Method of transfection of STOP gene lentiviral vector into oligodendrocyte precursor cells of BTBR mouse model of autism LIU Yong-feng Lü Na YANG Hua CHEN Yong-hong WEI Hong-en 2023, 54 (1):  117-122.  doi: 10.16098/j.issn.0529-1356.2023.01.018 Abstract ( )   PDF (7862KB) ( )   Objective To investigate the effect of microtubule binding protein STOP on myelin formation of oligodendrocyte in BTBR mice spectrum disorder in vitro, a highly purified primary culture method  of oligodendrocyte precursor cells from cerebral cortex of BTBR mice was established. Establishment of a highly efficient transfection method  for overexpression of STOP gene in oligodendrocyte precursor cells of BTBR mice cerebral cortex using lentiviral vector.   Methods BTBR mice were used as experimental objects, 6-10 suckling mice were taken each time, repeat 3 times independently. The single cell suspension was prepared by trypsin digestion, and the primary oligodendrocyte precursor cells were obtained by immunomagnetic bead cell sorting method . After 5 days of culture, the cell purity was identified by oligodendrocyte precursor cell marker staining. The primary cultured oligodendrocyte precursor cells were transfected with STOP gene vector constructed in the early stage of the project group. 72-96 hours after transfection, the fluorescence staining of oligodendrocyte precursor cells was observed under fluorescence microscope, and the transfection rate and cell survival rate were calculated.   Results The oligodendrocyte precursor cells of BTBR mice extracted by immunomagnetic beads sorting method  basically adhered to the wall completely after 48 hours, and the cells had strong ability of proliferation. On the fifth day of culture, the purity of the cells was more than 95% identified by immunofluorescence. A lentivirus transfection method  for primary oligodendrocyte precursor cells of BTBR mice with high transfection efficiency was established. The fluorescence expression of the cells was obvious after being photographed by high connotation microscope, the lentivirus transfection rate of oligodendrocyte precursor cells was increased to 60%-70%.   Conclusion The primary oligodendrocyte precursor cells of BTBR mouse cerebral cortex with high purity were successfully isolated and cultured. A method  for lentivirus infection of primary oligodendrocyte precursor cells in the cerebral cortex of BTBR mice is successfully established. References | Related Articles | Metrics

Neurobiology

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Effects of volatile oil from Acori graminei Rhizoma on glial fibrillary acidic protein, c-Jun N-terminal protein kinase and tumor necrosis factor-α expressions in the spinal cord dorsal horn of the inflammatory pain rats ZHANG Run-heng YANG Cui-zhu LI Shi-qi WANG Shu-han WANG Xin LIU Jing MA Yu-xin 2023, 54 (1):  23-29.  doi: 10.16098/j.issn.0529-1356.2023.01.003 Abstract ( )   PDF (3775KB) ( )   Objective To investigate the influence of volatile oil from Acori graminei Rhizoma（VOA）on expressions of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), c-Jun N-terminal protein kainse (JNK) and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in the spinal cord dorsal horn of imflammatory pain rats.   Methods Totally 36 male SD rats were randomly divided into control group (control), sham-operated group (sham), complete Freund’s adjuvant group (CFA), 5 g/(kg·d) low dose VOA+CFA group (VOA-L+CFA), 10 g/(kg·d) medium dose VOA + CFA group (VOA-M+CFA) and 20 g/(kg·d) high dose VOA + CFA group (VOA-H+CFA). All animals were sacrificed immediately after continuous gavage administration for 22 days. The expressions of GFAP, JNK and TNF-α in the spinal cord dorsal horn of rats in each group were detected by immunofluorescence and Western blotting methods.   Results The present results showed that the positive expressions of GFAP, JNK and TNF-α in the spinal cord dorsal horn of rats increased significantly in the CFA group, when compared to the control and sham groups (P< 0.01). The expressions of GFAP, JNK and TNF-α in the spinal cord dorsal horn of rats with VOA treatment reduced in the dose-dependent manner, when compared to the CFA group, the positive expressions of GFAP, JNK and TNF-α reduced significantly in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord of the VOA-H+CFA group (P<0.05, P<0.01).   Conclusion VOA reduces the expressions of GFAP, JNK and TNF-α in the spinal cord dorsal horn of rats of CFA-induced inflammatory pain. References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Expression and localization of vascular endothelial growth factor-B in diencephalon and brainstem related tissues of the Yak’s brain LI Qiao LIU Xia DU Xiao-hua MI Xiao-yu WEN Yong-qiang FANG Ying-dong 2023, 54 (1):  30-35.  doi: 10.16098/j.issn.0529-1356.2023.01.004 Abstract ( )   PDF (8603KB) ( )   Objective To explore the expression and distribution characteristics of vascular endothelial growth factor-B(VEGF-B) in diencephalon and brainstem of Yak’s brain tissues, and to investigate the associations between its expression and hypoxia adaptation.   Methods Five healthy yaks were selected, and the brain tissues were divided and collected according to the gross anatomical structure of the brain, including pituitary, thalamus, hypothalamus, oblongata and pons. The characteristics of expression and location of VEGF-B in different regions of Yak’s brain tissues were detected by Real-time PCR, Western blotting and immunohistochemical techniques.   Results The results showed that the highest expression level of VEGF-B mRNA of yak brain tissue was in the pituitary, and the content was significantly higher than that found in other parts of the brain（P<0.05）. Following the expressions were in the hypothalamus, thalamus and medulla oblongata, while the lowest expression level was in pons. The expression level of VEGF-B protein in Yak’s brain tissue was similar to the mRNA expression level except that the thalamus was higher than that of hypothalamus. The result  of immunohistochemistry showed that VEGF-B protein-positive substances were mainly distributed in the cytoplasm of various types of cells. Among them, the positive staining of VEGF-B was mainly concentrated in eosinophils of pituitary. The positive staining of VEGF-B was mainly concentrated in pleomorphic cells of thalamus and hypothalamus. The distribution of VEGF-B protein-positive substances were mainly focused in nerve cell body of medulla oblongata and pons.   Conclusion  VEGF-B protein is expressed in both diencephalon and brainstem of yak, which may be closely related to its functions of anti-apoptosis, "survival factor" and angiogenesis. However, the specific mechanism of its neuroprotective effect on Yak brain under hypoxic environment needs to be further studied. The difference of expression in different regions may be related to the tissue specificity and function in different regions of the brain.  References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Effects of estradiol on depressive-like behavior of ovariectomized rats and its possible mechanism SU Xiao-yun HE Ji-ping CUI Jian-mei SHI Xian-feng MEN Jie 2023, 54 (1):  36-41.  doi: 10.16098/j.issn.0529-1356.2023.01.005 Abstract ( )   PDF (8193KB) ( )   Objective To examine the effect of estradiol (E2) treatment on ovariectomy (OVX) induced depressive-like behavior and possible mechanism by measuring inflammatory biomarkers levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression in amygdala nucleus.   Methods Thirty nine healthy adult female SD rats were randomly divided into three groups: sham operation group (SO), ovariectomized group (OVX) and ovariectomized estradiol treatment group (OVX + E2). After 6 weeks of E2 treatment, depressive like behavior was evaluated by opening field test (OFT) and sugar water preference test (SPT). The levels of inflammatory factors IL-6 and TNF-α in amygdala were measured by ELESA, and the expression of BDNF in rat amygdala was detected by immunohistochemical staining.   Results The result  of the SPT showed that OVX significantly decreased the sugar intake and sugar preference rate of rats, and E2 treatment significantly increased sugar water intake and sugar water preference rate of rats. The result  of the OFT showed that OVX significantly decreased the numbers of crossing and rearing of rats, and reduced the time spent in the centre; E2 treatment significantly increased the numbers of crossing and rearing of rats, and prolonged the time spent in the centre. ELESA and immunohistochemical analysis found the levels of IL-6 and TNF-α in amygdala increased significantly, while the average absorbance(AA) of BDNF in the amygdala reduced significantly (P<0.01 respectively) of rats in OVX group when compared with the SO group. And the levels of IL-6 and TNF-α in amygdala decreased significantly (P<0.01 respectively), while the AA of BDNF increased significantly (P<0.05) in the amygdala of rats in the OVX+EX group when compared with the OVX group. The difference was statisticaly   significant.   Conclusion E2 treatment improved depression-like behavior of OVX rats is partly due to increased anti-inflammatory and activated the BDNF expression in amygdaloid nucleus, thus enhancing the neuroprotective effect of OVX rats. References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Effect of chronic restraint stress on the phenotypic transition of hippocampal astrocytes and depression-like behavior in mice SHI Meng-meng ZHANG Yuan LI Jing LUO Xiang-lin ZHANG Yuan XU Yang ZHONG Xiao-lin CAO Wen-yu 2023, 54 (1):  42-49.  doi: 10.16098/j.issn.0529-1356.2023.01.006 Abstract ( )   PDF (4126KB) ( )   Objective  To explore the effect of chronic restraint stress(CRS) on the phenotypic transition of hippocampal astrocytes and depression-like behavior in mice.   Methods  Forty eight male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into control groups (control), model groups (CRS) and fluoxetine(FLX) drug intervention groups (CRS+FLX), 16 for each group. The mice of the CRS group were subjected to 3 weeks chronic restraint stress. The mice of CRS+FLX group were treated with fluoxetine by intraperitoneal injection 30 minutes before restraint stress from the day 8 to day 21. The mice in the control group and CRS group were treated with the same amount of normal saline (NS). Depression-like behavior was determined by sucrose preference test and open filed test. The expression of astrocytes marker glial fibrillary acidic protein(GFAP) was detected by immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. The expression of A1 and A2 astrocytes markers were detected by Real-time PCR.   Results  Compared with the control group, mice in the CRS group showed obvious depression-like behavior, including a significantly decrease in the percent of sucrose preference (P＜0.0001), a redcued significantly body weight (P＜0.05), and reduced significantly distance travelling in the central area (P＜0.005) in the open field test, which could be reversed by the FLX intervention (P＜0.05). Compared with the control group, the expression of hippocampal astrocytes marker GFAP in the CRS group increased significantly (P＜0.05), which could be reversed by the FLX intervention (P＜0.05). Compared with the control group, the mRNA expression level of the A1 astrocytes markers ［(H2D1, guanylate binding protein 2(GBP2), Fkbp5, Amigo2)］ in the hippocampus of the CRS group were significanlty up-regulated (P＜0.05), which could be reversed by the FLX intervention (P＜0.05). No difference was found in the A2 astrocytes markers mRNA level among the three groups (P＞0.05), except Sphk1 and PTX3. Compared with the control group  , the protein level of hippocampal A1 markers (C3, Fkbp5, GBP2) in CRS group was significanlty up-regulated (P＜0.05), while no difference in the protein level of hippocampal A2 marker CD14 between the two groups (P=0.8361), FLX intervention could significantly reduce the protein level of A1 markers (P＜0.05), but had no obvious effect on the protein expression of CD14 (P=0.5881).   Conclusion The depression-like behavior of mice in the chronic restraint stress model may be related to the phenotypic changes of astrocytes, and it is mainly due to the high expression of type A1 markers in astrocytes. References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Activation of p38 MAPK and its effect on the expression of Bax and Bcl-2 after cerebral ischemia-reperfusion in hyperlipidemia rats GAO Sai-hong ZHANG Xiao-liang YANG Ying-chun QIAO Hai-bing 2023, 54 (1):  50-55.  doi: 10.16098/j.issn.0529-1356.2023.01.007 Abstract ( )   PDF (9812KB) ( )   Objective To detecte the expressions of phosphorylated p38 MAPK (p-p38 MAPK), Bax and Bcl-2 in the cerebral cortex of hyperlipidemia rats after cerebral ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury and the effect of SB203580 on the expressions of p-p38 MAPK, Bax and Bcl-2, to explore the effect of p38 MAPK activation on the expressions of Bax and Bcl-2 in hyperlipidemia cerebral I/R injury.   Methods After the hyperlipidemia model was established, the rats were randomly divided into 3 groups: sham operation group, operation group (I/R) and SB203580 treatment group (SB+I/R), with 10 rats in each group. The focal cerebral I/R model in hyperlipemia rats was established with thread embolism of the left middle cerebral artery. The neurobehavioral score was used to observe the symptoms of neurobehavioral injury. The 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining was used to detect the volume of cerebral infarction, and the TUNEL staining was used to observe apoptotic cells. The relative expression levels of p-p38 MAPK, Bax and Bcl-2 were analyzed by immunohistochemistry.   Results Compared with the sham group, the infarct volume, apoptosis index and neurobehavioral score of rats in the I/R group increased significantly, and the expressions of p-p38 MAPK and Bax increased significantly, and the expression of Bcl-2 decreased significantly (P<0.05). Compared with the I/R group, rats in the SB+I/R group had less brain damage, the infarct volume and the apoptosis index were significantly reduced, the expressions of p-p38 MAPK reduced significantly, Bax expression decreased while Bcl-2 expression increased. The differences were statistically significant (P<0.05). Neurobehavioral scores were lower in SB+I/R group than in I/R group, but the difference was not statistically significant.   Conclusion In the process of cerebral I/R injury in hyperlipidemiarats, activation of p38 MAPK can regulate the expression of Bax and Bcl-2. References | Related Articles | Metrics

Histology,Embryology and Developmental Biology

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Three-dimensional visualization on the relationship between tubules after macula densa and afferent arterioles in mouse kidney DENG Si-qi GU Ling WANG Kai-yue CHEN Hong-yu LIU Yu-jie ZHANG Jie ZHAI Xiao-yue 2023, 54 (1):  87-91.  doi: 10.16098/j.issn.0529-1356.2023.01.013 Abstract ( )   PDF (5148KB) ( )   Objective To establish the spatial course of distal tubule and afferent arterioles after macula densa, and to locate and detect the proteins in the adjacent parts by using three-dimensional visualization technology of microstructure.   Methods C57 BL/6J mice were fixed by perfusion and embedded in epon 812. Tissue blocks were cut perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the kidney. And a total of 720, 2.5 μm-thick consecutive sections were obtained from the renal capsule to the outer stripe of the renal outer medulla. After aligning the digital microscopic images through computer registration procedures, the tubules and vessels were traced by 3D reconstruction program edited by C Language. Selecting the tissue sections of the contact site and applying the improved immunoperoxidase staining method  to detect H+-ATPase and Pendrin.   Results By reconstructing the course of the afferent arterioles, distal tubules and their extended connecting tubules of 90 nephrons in three mice, analyzing the adjacent relationship and measuring the length, it was found that the close contact between tubules and afferent arterioles mostly occurred in superficial and midcortical nephrons, and the cells at the contact expressed H+-ATPase and Pendrin, which was non-A-non-B intercalated cells.   Conclusion The contact between the tubules after macula densa and the afferent arterioles is not accidental, but is occurred at the non-A-non-B intercalated cells in the end of the distal convoluted tubules or (and) the connecting tubules, suggesting that the contact at this site may antagonize the tubuloglomerular feedback at the macula densa, thereby restoring glomerular filtration rate and renal blood flow. References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Impairment of superovulation on the establishment of pregnancy in mice WANG Hao-yang JIAO Xi-yao ZHANG Jing LU Xiao-yu LI Gui-lin WANG Miao-miao WU Xing-long LI Xiang-yun 2023, 54 (1):  92-98.  doi: 10.16098/j.issn.0529-1356.2023.01.014 Abstract ( )   PDF (7652KB) ( )   Objective To explore whether superovulation impairs the process of pregnancy establishment in mice by changing the intrauterine environment.   Methods The implantation and pregnancy of superovulated and normal mice were compared. The superovulated mice were subjected to unilateral tubal ligation on day 0.5 and blastocysts were transplanted to the other uterine horn on day 2.5. The number of implantation sites of bilateral uterine horn was compared. The differences between preimplantation uteri of superovulated and normal pseudopregnancy mice were compared by tissue sections and high-throughput sequencing.Bioinformatics analysis was performed on the differentially expressed genes in two groups.   Results Compared with the control group, the pregnancy rate of mice in the superovulation group decreased significantly. The number of implantation sites in the superovulation group was higher than the control. There was no significant difference in the pregnancy rate of the uterine horn between the control side and the transplanted side of the superovulated mice. The endometrium was thinned and the number of glands was reduced in superovulated pseudopregnancy mice. The gene expression patterns of preimplantation uterus in superovulation pseudopregnancy and normal pseudopregnancy mice were different. There were 1097 significantly differentially expressed genes, including 752 up-regulated genes and 345 down-regulated genes. Bioinformatics analysis showed that differentially expressed genes are mainly involved in biological processes, such as decidualization, response to progesterone, positive regulation of angiogenesis. They were mainly enriched in FoxO signaling pathway, cell cycle pathway and steroid   biosynthesis pathway.   Conclusion Superovulation impaired the process of establishing pregnancy and altered the gene expression patterns of biomarker of uterine receptivity in mice.  References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Role of pcgf5a in the early development of zebrafish ZHOU Juan ZHOU Wen-juan LI Xin-yue SHI Wei HAO Ai-jun 2023, 54 (1):  99-103.  doi: 10.16098/j.issn.0529-1356.2023.01.015 Abstract ( )   PDF (7647KB) ( )   Objective To investigate the role of pcgf5a gene during zebrafish embryonic development.   Methods pcgf5a morpholine antisense morpholino oligomers(MO) was microinjected to delete the expression of pcgf5a gene, and possible phenotypes were examined in pcgf5a-deficient embryos. The whole mount in situ hybridization and Real-time PCR were used to detect alterations of key genes related to the development of nervous system and eye.   Results After pcgf5a gene knockdown, the development of ectoderm and mesoderm of zebrafish embryos were affected. The brain size became smaller, and the eyes developed retarded, and the tail was curled and the body axis was shortened（548/891）. In addition, the expressions of sox2(82/98), sox3（73/84）, foxg1（70/88）, pax6a（36/45）, pax2a, vsx2 and rx1(n=5) were significantly reduced.   Conclusion pcgf5a affects the morphogenesis of nervous system and eye, possibly due to regulating the expression of the transcription factors related to their development via the processes of cell proliferation and apoptosis. References | Related Articles | Metrics