• Journal of Ginseng Research
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• 제46권2호
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• pp.235-247
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• 2022

Background: Ginsenoside Rg3 is one of the main active ingredients in ginseng. Here, we aimed to confirm its protective effect on the heart function in transverse aortic coarctation (TAC)-induced heart failure mice and explore the potential molecular mechanisms involved. Methods: The effects of ginsenoside Rg3 on heart and mitochondrial function were investigated by treating TAC-induced heart failure in mice. The mechanism of ginsenoside Rg3 for improving heart and mitochondrial function in mice with heart failure was predicted through integrative analysis of the proteome and plasma metabolome. Glucose uptake and myocardial insulin sensitivity were evaluated using micro-positron emission tomography. The effect of ginsenoside Rg3 on myocardial insulin sensitivity was clarified by combining in vivo animal experiments and in vitro cell experiments. Results: Treatment of TAC-induced mouse models with ginsenoside Rg3 significantly improved heart function and protected mitochondrial structure and function. Fusion of metabolomics, proteomics, and targeted metabolomics data showed that Rg3 regulated the glycolysis process, and Rg3 not only regulated glucose uptake but also improve myocardial insulin resistance. The molecular mechanism of ginsenoside Rg3 regulation of glucose metabolism was determined by exploring the interaction pathways of AMPK, insulin resistance, and glucose metabolism. The effect of ginsenoside Rg3 on the promotion of glucose uptake in IR-H9c2 cells by AMPK activation was dependent on the insulin signaling pathway. Conclusions: Ginsenoside Rg3 modulates glucose metabolism and significantly ameliorates insulin resistance through activation of the AMPK pathway.

• The Plant Pathology Journal
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• 제38권1호
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• pp.12-24
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• 2022

In this study, we conducted whole-genome sequencing with six species of Pectobacterium composed of seven strains, JR1.1, BP201601.1, JK2.1, HNP201719, MYP201603, PZ1, and HC, for the analysis of pathogenic factors associated with the genome of Pectobacterium. The genome sizes ranged from 4,724,337 bp to 5,208,618 bp, with the GC content ranging from 50.4% to 52.3%. The average nucleotide identity was 98% among the two Pectobacterium species and ranged from 88% to 96% among the remaining six species. A similar distribution was observed in the carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes) class and extracellular plant cell wall degrading enzymes (PCWDEs). HC showed the highest number of enzymes in CAZymes and the lowest number in the extracellular PCWDEs. Six strains showed four subsets, and HC demonstrated three subsets, except hasDEF, in type I secretion system, while the type II secretion system of the seven strains was conserved. Components of human pathogens, such as Salmonella pathogenicity island 1 type type III secretion system (T3SS) and effectors, were identified in PZ1; T3SSa was not identified in HC. Two putative effectors, including hrpK, were identified in seven strains along with dspEF. We also identified 13 structural genes, six regulator genes, and five accessory genes in the type VI secretion system (T6SS) gene cluster of six Pectobacterium species, along with the loss of T6SS in PZ1. HC had two subsets, and JK2.1 had three subsets of T6SS. With the GxSxG motif, the phospholipase A gene did locate among tssID and duf4123 genes in the T6SSa cluster of all strains. Important domains were identified in the vgrG/paar islands, including duf4123, duf2235, vrr-nuc, and duf3396.

• Journal of Ginseng Research
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• 제47권2호
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• pp.337-346
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• 2023

Background: Ginsenoside Rb2, a major active component of Panax ginseng, has various physiological activities, including anticancer and anti-inflammatory effects. However, the mechanisms underlying the rejuvenation effect of Rb2 in human skin cells have not been elucidated. Methods: We performed a senescence-associated β-galactosidase staining assay to confirm cellular senescence in human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs). The regulatory effects of Rb2 on autophagy were evaluated by analyzing the expression of autophagy marker proteins, such as microtubule-associated protein 1A/1B-light chain (LC) 3 and p62, using immunoblotting. Autophagosome and autolysosome formation was monitored using transmission electron microscopy. Autophagic flux was analyzed using tandem-labeled GFP-RFP-LC3, and lysosomal function was assessed with Lysotracker. We performed RNA sequencing to identify potential target genes related to HDF rejuvenation mediated by Rb2. To verify the functions of the target genes, we silenced them using shRNAs. Results: Rb2 decreased β-galactosidase activity and altered the expression of cell cycle regulatory proteins in senescent HDFs. Rb2 markedly induced the conversion of LC3-I to LC3-II and LC3 puncta. Moreover, Rb2 increased lysosomal function and red puncta in tandem-labeled GFP-RFP-LC3, which indicate that Rb2 promoted autophagic flux. RNA sequencing data showed that the expression of DNA damage-regulated autophagy modulator 2 (DRAM2) was induced by Rb2. In autophagy signaling, Rb2 activated the AMPK-ULK1 pathway and inactivated mTOR. DRAM2 knockdown inhibited autophagy and Rb2-restored cellular senescence. Conclusion: Rb2 reverses cellular senescence by activating autophagy via the AMPK-mTOR pathway and induction of DRAM2, suggesting that Rb2 might have potential value as an antiaging agent.

• 한국발생생물학회:학술대회논문집
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• 한국발생생물학회 2003년도 제3회 국제심포지움 및 학술대회
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• pp.83-83
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• 2003

The lutropin/choriogonadotropin receptor (LHR) is a member of the rhodopsin-like subfamily of G protein coupled receptor (GPCRs), that has been shown to mediate the internalization of its two naturally occurring agonist, lutropin and choriogonadotropin (CG). The clustered agonist-receptor complex is internalized by a dynamin-dependent pathway and traverses the endosomal compartment without agonist dissociation Dissociation of the agonist-receptor complex occurs in the lysosomes, where both the agonist and receptor are degrade. Recently, constitutively activating mutations of the receptor have been identified that are associated with familial male-precocious puberty (FMPP). A FMPP is a form of sexual precocious puberty in boys in which testosterone levels are elevated independent of changes in luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone and serum luteinizing hormone levels, We have now analyzed two naturally occurring, constitutively active mutants of the human LHR. These mutations were introduced into the rat LHR (rLHR) and are designated L435R and D556Y. Cells expressing rLHR-D556Y bind human choriogonadotropin (hCG) with normal affinity, exhibit a 25-fold increase in basal cAMP and respond to hCG with a normal increase in cAMP accumulation. Cells expressing rLHR-L435R also bind hCG with normal affinity, exhibit a 47-fold increase in basal cAMP, and do not respond to hCG with a further increase in cAMP accumulation. This mutation enhances the internalization of the free and agonist-occupied receptors ~2- and ~17- fold, respectively We conclude that the state of activation of the rLHR can modulate its basal and/or agonist-stimulated internalization. Since the internalization of hCG is involved in the termination of hCG actions, we suggest that the lack of responsiveness detected in cells expressing rLHR-L435R is due to the fast rate of internalization of the bound hCG. The finding that membranes expressing rLHR-L435R respond to hCG with an increase in adenylyl cyclase activity supports this suggestion. Autonomous Leydig cell activity in FMPP is caused by a constitutively activating LH/CGR.

• 한국발생생물학회:학술대회논문집
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• 한국발생생물학회 2003년도 제3회 국제심포지움 및 학술대회
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• pp.72-72
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• 2003

The present study examined the possibility of cryopreservation of the D-shaped and umbo larvae of arkshell (Scapharca broughtonii), in terms of the survival rates after freezing and thawing. D-shaped and umbo larvae of arkshells were obtained from a shellfish farming on Yosu city. The average shell lengths were $93.3 \pm 10.1 \mu$m and $201.7 \pm 13.5 \mu$, respectively. Five cryoprotectants (CPAs), dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), glycerol, ethylene glycol (EG), propylene glycol (PG), and methanol, were tested at the concentrations of 1.5, 2.0 and 2.5 M. After larvae suspended in CPAs, cryoprotectants were loaded in 0.5 ml straws at a larval density of 50-100 larvae per straw, and epuilibrated for 10 and 20 minute at room temperature ($23^{\circ}C$), repectively. Straws were cooled at a rate of $1^{\circ}C$/min from $0^{\circ}C$ to $-12^{\circ}C$, held for 5 min at $-12^{\circ}C$, and then cooled at $2^{\circ}C$/min to $-35^{\circ}C$ and equilibrated for 5 min followed by plunging in liquid nitrogen. After storage in liquid nitrogen for 1 day, straws were thawed in a $30^{\circ}C$ water. As soon as straws were observed to melt, larvae were diluted with an equal volume of ASW and then washed twice with a large volume of ASW at an interval of 2 min to unload the CPAs. The results showed that after equilibration for 10 and 20 minute at room temperature, no larvae survived using methanol as CPAs, and it was observed that larval shells all open slightly, and larval flesh broke down and slopped over the shells. The highest survival rates (D-shaped larvae: 77.6%, umbo larvae: 59.3%) were obtained with 2M DMSO, and 1.5M glycerol yielded survival rates of 53.8% for D-shaped larvae and 37.5% for umbo larvae. The surviving D-shaped larvae showed active rotary motion and perfect membrane integrity and cytoplasmic normality, and the vigorous movement of veliger cilia was observed inside the closed shells. The breakdown of tissue occurred in the abnormal larvae, and the isolated cell often run out of shells.

• 생명과학회지
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• 제32권3호
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• pp.241-248
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• 2022

NF-κB는 염증과 선천성 면역에 중요한 전사인자이며 anti-apoptotic gene을 유도하여 세포의 생존과 발암에도 깊이 연관되어 있으며 많은 신호전달분자 및 신호전달회로와 연결되어있다. 한편, Hsp90는 NF-κB의 활성을 조절한다는 보고가 이루어졌으나 그 구체적인 기전은 알려져 있지 않다. 본 연구에서는 IKK compelx를 구성하는 인자들의 발현 plasmid를 이용하여 NF-κB의 활성조절에서 Hsp90와 IKKγ의 연관성 및 역할을 연구하였다. 그 결과 Hsp90는 IκBα의 인산화와 분해를 촉진하여 NF-κB를 활성화시켰고, NIK과 LPS에 의한 NF-κB의 활성화는 Hsp90에 의해 더욱 활성이 증가하였다. IKKγ는 Hsp90에 의해 증가된 IκBα의 인산화와 분해를 더욱 촉진함으로써 Hsp90의 NF-κB 활성화 작용을 상승시켰다. 이러한 Hsp90와 IKKγ에 의한 NF-κB의 활성화 현상은 항상 활성화 된 상태를 유지하는 IKKβ-EE mutant를 이용한 검토에서도 입증되었다. 또한 IKKγ의 deletion mutant를 이용한 검토에서 IKKγ의 N-말단에 위치하는 IKKβ 결합부위와 C-말단에 위치하는 leucine zipper 및 zinc finger 부위는 IKKγ와 Hsp90의 NF-κB에 대한 상호협력적 촉진작용에 필요하지 않았다. 또한 Hsp90에 의해 촉진된 세포내 pro-inflammatory cytokine들의 발현은 IKKγ에 의해 더욱 상승하였다. 이러한 결과로부터 Hsp90와 IKKγ의 상호작용을 차단한다면 NF-κB의 과다활성으로 인한 질병의 예방과 치료에 도움을 줄 수 있을 것으로 사료된다.

• Strategy21
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• 통권32호
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• pp.192-221
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• 2013

In order to deal with the current economic crisis, the U.S. government, as a part of its austerity fiscal policy, implemented a budget sequester. The sequester will hit the U.S. defense budget the hardest, and as a result will most likely put the security of the international community in jeopardy. The U.S. will have to cut 46 billion dollars from its original 525 billon defense spending in 2013. And by the year 2022, will have to cut 486.9 billion dollars. Such an astronomical decrease in the U.S. defense spending will inevitably burden the friendly nations. According to recent studies, pirate related incidents in Somalia, where piracy is most active, has declined from its 226 incidents to 76 incidents per year in 2012, a 66% drop from previous years'. However, piracy threats as well as those related to firearms still remain and thus participants of anti-piracy operations, namely the U.S., U.K., France, Canada, NCC, EUNAVFOR, and NATO, are facing a problem of declining forces. Considering the current situation as well as rising expectations from the international community, Republic of Korea, a supporter of NCC's maritime security operation, not to mention its foremost duty of securing its sea, is at a stage to re-examine its operational picture. Such action will be a good opportunity for Republic of Korea to build the trust and live up to the international community's expectation. To quote from the network theory, although in relation to other friendly nations participating in the anti-piracy operation, Republic of Korea currently remains at a single cell level, this opportunity will certainly develop Korea to a 'node' nation in which power and information would flow into. Through this expansion of operational capability, Republic of Korea will be able to exert more influence as a more developed nation. Currently however, not only is the single 4,500 ton class destroyer deployed in Somalia a limited unit to further expand the scale and amount of force projection in the area, but also the total of six 4,500 ton class destroyers ROK feet possess is at a high fatigue degree due to standard patrolling operations, midshipman cruise and the RIMPAC exercise. ROK fleet therefore must consider expanding the number of ships deployed along with either deploying combat support ships or constructing logistics support site in the African region. Thus, by expanding its operational capabilities and furthermore by abiding to the rightful responsibilities of a middle power nation, Republic of Korea will surely earn its respect among the members of the international community.

• 한국자원식물학회:학술대회논문집
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• 한국자원식물학회 2021년도 춘계학술대회
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• pp.46-46
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• 2021

The first purpose of this study was to evaluate the scavenging capacity (SC) of DPPH and ABTS free radicals for ethanol extract (STR-E) and its active fractions from Sophora tonkinensis root (STR). Four different fractions from STR-E were prepared by using different types of solvents such as chloroform (STR-E-C), ethyl acetate (STR-E-EA), n-butanol (STR-E-B), and water (STR-E-W). STR-E-C showed the highest value of total phenolic content, while STR-E showed the highest value of total flavonoid and terpenoid content. In STR-E and its four fractions, STR-E-EA showed the strongest SC with the lowest SC50 values of the DPPH radicals and ABTS radicals. The second purpose of this study was to evaluate anti-inflammatory activity in the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW 264.7 macrophages treated with STR-E, STR-E-C, and STR-E-EA, respectively. No cytotoxic effect to RAW 264.7 cells was observed at 20 ~ 25 ㎍/ml of STR-E, 10 ㎍/ml of STR-E-C, and 5 ㎍/ml of the STR-E-EA, presenting cell viability values close to that of the untreated control (100%). STR-E, STR-E-C, and STR-E-EA significantly suppressed the LPS-induced nitric oxide (NO) in a dose-dependent manner. Results of reverse-transcription (RT)-qPCR analysis showed that the peak mRNA levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, iNOS, IL-6, and IL-10 were observed in the LPS-stimulated macrophages at 4 h, 2 h, 12 h, 12 h, and 12 h, respectively. The peak mRNA levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, iNOS, and IL-6 were significantly reduced in the LPS-stimulated macrophages co-treated with 20 ㎍/ml and 25 ㎍/ml of STR-E, respectively. In the case of IL-10, its peak mRNA level slightly increased without statistical significance. Compared with the LPS-stimulated macrophages, the peak mRNA levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, iNOS, and IL-6 reduced in the LPS-stimulated macrophages co-treated with 10 ㎍/ml and 20 ㎍/ml of STR-E-C, respectively. In contrast, the peak mRNA level of IL-10 significantly increased at 8 h. Compared with the LPS-stimulated macrophages, the peak mRNA levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, iNOS, and IL-6 reduced in the LPS-stimulated macrophages co-treated with 5 ㎍/ml and 10 ㎍/ml of STR-E-EA, respectively. In contrast, the peak mRNA level of IL-10 increased at 4 h. Taken together, our data indicated that STR-E, STR-E-C, and STR-E-EA activate macrophages to secrete both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines.

• Korean Chemical Engineering Research
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• 제62권1호
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• pp.7-12
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• 2024

고분자 전해질 연료전지(PEMFC) 내구성에 촉매 지지체 내구성이 미치는 영향이 크다. 촉매 지지체의 가속 내구 평가는 높은 전압(1.0~1.5 V)에서 진행되어 촉매층의 촉매와 이오노머 바인더도 같이 열화되어 지지체 내구성 평가에 방해가 된다. 내구성 평가대상인 지지체가 더 열화되는 조건을 찾고자 기존의 프로토콜 (DOE 프로토콜)을 개선하였다. 상대습도를 35% 낮추고 전압변화 횟수를 감소시킨 프로토콜 (MDOE)을 개발하였다. 1.0 ↔ 1.5 V 전압변화 사이클 반복 후에 촉매 비활성도 (MA)와 전기화학적 활성면적 (ECSA), 전기이중층 용량 (DLC), Pt 용해와 입자 성장 등을 분석하였다. 비활성도 감소 40% 도달하는데 MDOE 프로토콜은 500 사이클 밖에 안되어 DOE방법보다 전압변화 횟수를 감소시키면서 카본 지지체 열화를 DOE 프로토콜보다 50% 증가시킬 수 있었다.

• 대한화장품학회지
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• 제50권2호
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• pp.103-110
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• 2024

지질나노입자(lipid nanoparticles, LNPs)란, 세포 불투과성인 치료용 핵산, 단백질 및 펩타이드와 같은 생물학적 활성 화합물을 미세한 환경 변화에 의한 분해로부터 보호해 안정적이면서 효과적인 약물전달시스템이다. 본 연구에서는 지용성 비타민 C 유도체인 테트라헥실데실아스코르베이트(tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, THDC)의 생체 내 반감기를 효과적으로 연장시키기 위해 산화방지제인 갈릭산(gallic acid, GA)을 함유하는 지질나노입자를 개발하였다. 마이크로플루이딕스칩(microfludics chip)을 통해 상온 및 상압 조건 하에서 작고 균일한 크기로 제작하였다. 기존 마이크로플루다이저(microfluidizer)를 통해 고압 및 고온 조건 하에 제작된 리포좀과 비교하였을 때, 마이크로플루이딕스칩(microfludics chip)을 통해 제작된 LNPs인 경우, 분산 및 온도에 따른 안정성이 우수하였으며, 지용성 비타민 C 유도체의 산화 안정성을 향상시켰을 뿐 아니라 피부 흡수율도 개선된 것을 확인하였다. 향후 연구에서는 이러한 결과를 더욱 입증하기 위해 피부 개선 효과를 연구하기 위한 생체 외 및 생체 내 평가에 중점을 둘 것이다.