Molecular medicine reports
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The present study aimed to reveal the potential genes associated with the pathogenesis of intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) by analyzing microarray data using bioinformatics. Gene expression profiles of two regions of the intervertebral disc were compared between patients with IDD and controls. GSE70362 containing two groups of gene expression profiles, 16 nucleus pulposus (NP) samples from patients with IDD and 8 from controls, and 16 annulus fibrosus (AF) samples from patients with IDD and 8 from controls, was downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. ⋯ The genes in the DEG‑miRNA regulatory network were annotated using GO function and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis, among which extracellular matrix organization was the most significant disrupted biological process and focal adhesion was the most significant dysregulated pathway. In addition, the result of protein‑protein interaction network modules demonstrated the involvement of inflammatory cytokine interferon signaling in IDD. These findings may not only advance the understanding of the pathogenesis of IDD, but also identify novel potential biomarkers for this disease.
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Leptin is a cytokine‑like hormone secreted by adipocytes, which serves to control energy expenditure and metabolism. In addition, leptin may modulate the innate and adaptive immune responses. The innate immune cell sensor nucleotide‑binding oligomerization domain‑like receptor family pyrin domain‑containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is mainly expressed in myeloid immune cells, including macrophages. ⋯ The results of the present study demonstrated that leptin enhanced the mRNA and protein expression levels of IL‑18 in RAW 264.7 cells via activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. This is achieved partly by enhancing the production of reactive oxygen species and K+ efflux. Therefore, leptin may be considered a novel activator and modulator of the NLRP3 inflammasome.