Fusion genes are pivotal drivers of tumorigenesis, often generating oncogenic chimeric RNAs and fusion circular RNAs. However, the mechanisms by which these transcripts synergistically contribute to c Show more
Fusion genes are pivotal drivers of tumorigenesis, often generating oncogenic chimeric RNAs and fusion circular RNAs. However, the mechanisms by which these transcripts synergistically contribute to cancer progression remain poorly understood. Here, we identified a lung cancer-specific chimeric RNA KANSL1-ARL17A (chKANSARL) and its circular variant fusion circular RNA KANSL1-ARL17 A (F-circKA), both derived from the fusion gene KANSARL. Functional assays revealed that overexpression of either chKANSARL or F-circKA significantly enhanced lung cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, while their knockdown suppressed these malignant phenotypes. In vivo experiments demonstrated that chKANSARL overexpression accelerated tumor growth in immunodeficient mice. Notably, coexpression experiments uncovered a synergistic regulatory interaction between F-circKA and chKANSARL, amplifying oncogenic effects. Mechanistically, miRNA sequencing and dual-luciferase assays revealed that F-circKA acts as a molecular sponge for miR-6860, thereby derepressing chKANSARL expression. Rescue experiments further validated this regulatory axis, wherein miR-6860 inhibition reversed the tumor-suppressive effects of F-circKA knockdown. Collectively, our study identifies and characterizes a novel F-circKA/miR-6860/chKANSARL regulatory axis, revealing how dual transcriptional outputs from the KANSARL fusion gene can synergistically drive lung cancer progression. These findings highlight a previously unrecognized layer of cooperative regulation between linear and circular fusion RNAs in oncogenesis and provide a new framework for understanding fusion gene-mediated tumorigenesis. Show less
Osteoarthritis (OA) represents a prevalent degenerative joint condition, in which chondrocyte dysfunction plays a key role in disease progression. Although accumulating evidence underscores the import Show more
Osteoarthritis (OA) represents a prevalent degenerative joint condition, in which chondrocyte dysfunction plays a key role in disease progression. Although accumulating evidence underscores the importance of cellular stemness regulation in OA development, systematic screening of related biomarkers has been insufficient. The current study sought to discover and validate potential biomarkers through bioinformatics and machine learning (ML), offering novel perspectives for early detection and therapeutic intervention in OA. The present study examined six OA-related transcriptomic profiles from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) to discover and validate stemness-associated biomarkers. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were selected and analyzed for enriched biological functions. OA-related modules were determined via weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA). Key stemness-related genes were selected using ML algorithms, including support vector machine (SVM), random forest (RF), extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was implemented to determine diagnostic accuracy. Utilizing single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA), the link with immune cell infiltration was examined. Ultimately, immunohistochemistry was employed for experimental validation. Intersection analysis identified 56 stemness-related DEGs in OA cartilage. WGCNA analysis yielded 7 modules significantly associated with stemness genes, and a combined screening approach identified 60 candidate genes. Using four machine learning algorithms-SVM, LASSO, XGBoost, and RF-four feature genes were ultimately determined (WWP2, CDKN1A, IL11, and CRTAC1), among which WWP2, CDKN1A, and CRTAC1 showed significant differential expression between OA and normal samples and demonstrated good diagnostic performance in both the training and validation cohorts (AUC > 0.7). ssGSEA analysis revealed that the expression of these three genes was significantly correlated with specific immune cell subpopulations. Immunohistochemistry further confirmed that WWP2 and CDKN1A were downregulated in OA tissues, whereas CRTAC1 was upregulated. Through bioinformatics analysis and IHC validation, we identified three stemness-associated biomarker genes (WWP2, CDKN1A, CRTAC1) in OA. These findings may provide meaningful implications for future clinical assessment, treatment, and research on OA. Show less
Current infant formulas lack the native multilayer structure of breast milk fat globule membrane (MFGM), impacting lipid digestion. In this study, the inner layer material and concentration of the bio Show more
Current infant formulas lack the native multilayer structure of breast milk fat globule membrane (MFGM), impacting lipid digestion. In this study, the inner layer material and concentration of the biomimetic fat globule membrane were optimized by comparing particle size, Zeta-potential and interface protein load. It was found that compared with sodium caseinate (CN) and whey protein (WP), when the lactoferrin (LF) concentration was 2 %, the particle size was lower (277.85 ± 6.15 nm) and Zeta-potential value was higher (19.67 ± 1.27 mv). Using milk phospholipid (MPL) as the outer layer material, when the MPL concentration was 2 %, the emulsion had a smaller particle size (291.33 ± 1.15 nm) and a better stability (10.22 ± 0.62 %). Therefore, the biomimetic multilayer membrane was constructed by electrostatic layer-by-layer deposition of 2 % LF and 2 % MPL. Combining Fluorescence and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), the interaction between LF and MPL molecules in the LF-MPL multilayer structure is primarily a spontaneous, endothermic process driven by hydrophobic forces, exhibited superior stability (except thermal stability) than LF monolayer membrane. The results of in vitro digestion showed that compared with LF, WP and WP-MPL emulsions, LF-MPL emulsions had the highest free fatty acid (FFA) release rate of 69.97 %. LF-MPL enhanced gastric stability and promoted intestinal lipolysis and improved the degree of lipid digestion. In addition, LF-MPL promoted the absorption and utilization of triglyceride (TAG) in cells and animals, and secretion and upregulated lipid absorption genes (FATP4, DGAT1, APOB, APOA4, MTTP). These findings demonstrate that biomimetic LF-MPL multilayers improve lipid digestion, absorption, and bioavailability, providing a theoretical basis for designing more breast milk-like infant formulas. Show less
Pulmonary infections and fibrosis remain difficult to treat because current interventions target isolated pathways rather than the coupled axes of inflammation, barrier integrity, and tissue remodelin Show more
Pulmonary infections and fibrosis remain difficult to treat because current interventions target isolated pathways rather than the coupled axes of inflammation, barrier integrity, and tissue remodeling. Here, it is shown that inhalationally delivered, lung-targeted antisense oligonucleotides against angiopoietin-like 4 (Angptl4-ASO) attenuate both infectious and fibrotic lung disease. In murine models of bacterial and viral pneumonia, Angptl4-ASO reduces inflammatory cell infiltration, preserves alveolar architecture, and improves host defence. In bleomycin-induced fibrosis, treatment lowered Ashcroft scores, collagen deposition, and α-smooth muscle actin (SMA) expression, indicating broad efficacy across acute and chronic injury. Comparative transcriptomics reveal model-specific responses, immune and oxidative-stress programs in pneumonia versus extracellular matrix (ECM)-remodeling pathways in fibrosis, yet nearly half of all changes converge on a shared ANGPTL4-regulated network linking hypoxic, inflammatory, apoptotic, and stress response programs. This conserved signature suggests that ANGPTL4 functions as a central regulator of injury resolution regardless of the initiating insult. Mechanistically, Angptl4-ASO reinforced epithelial barrier integrity through coordinated regulation of tight junction and glycoprotein pathways. Longitudinal tracking of a Sulfo-Cyanine 5 (Cy5)-conjugated Angptl4-ASO confirmed a lung-retentive biodistribution, with sustained intrapulmonary localization and minimal systemic dissemination over a 144-hour window. Collectively, these findings position inhaled ANGPTL4-ASO as a host-directed, multi-axis therapeutic strategy that addresses shared and context-specific drivers of diverse pulmonary pathologies. Show less
Anoikis resistance and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) are crucial factors in tumor invasiveness and metastasis in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Identifying anoikis-EMT-related genes could be be Show more
Anoikis resistance and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) are crucial factors in tumor invasiveness and metastasis in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Identifying anoikis-EMT-related genes could be beneficial for predicting prognosis and immunotherapeutic efficacy in patients with LUAD. This study aims to establish and validate a novel prognostic signature based on anoikis-EMT-related genes for LUAD and to identify the potential biomarkers encapsulated within it. Anoikis-related genes and EMT-related genes were retrieved from the GeneCards and dbEMT 2.0 databases. Univariate Cox regression analysis and principal component analysis (PCA) were conducted to define anoikis and EMT levels. Gene expression and clinical information of patients with LUAD were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases. Univariate Cox regression and multivariate Cox regression analyses were conducted to construct a risk score model. Immune correlation and drug sensitivity analyses were performed to investigate the association of the risk score with the immune profile and antitumor treatment. Three essential genes in the model were examined for messenger RNA (mRNA) expression by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and for protein levels via the Human Protein Atlas (HPA) database. LUAD patients demonstrating low Anoikis Potential Index (API) combined with high EMT Potential Index (EPI) exhibited the poorest overall survival (OS). We further constructed a nine-gene prognostic risk model that combines anoikis and EMT. High-risk patients demonstrated significantly shorter survival duration. The clinical-prognostic nomogram accurately predicted outcomes at 1, 3, and 5 years. In addition, patients in low-risk group demonstrated superior immune responses to treatment and were more sensitive to commonly used chemotherapy drugs. Our validation studies confirmed upregulated expression of ANGPTL4, SLC2A1, and BIRC5 in LUAD, observed at both transcriptional and translational levels. The anoikis-EMT-based risk model effectively forecasts both OS and immunotherapy response in LUAD patients, accelerating the identification of groundbreaking molecular biomarkers and prospective molecular targets. Show less
Residual cardiovascular risk persists in statin-treated patients with coronary artery disease (CAD), even when low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) targets are met. Excess apolipoprotein B (apo Show more
Residual cardiovascular risk persists in statin-treated patients with coronary artery disease (CAD), even when low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) targets are met. Excess apolipoprotein B (apoB), defined as measured apoB minus LDL-C-predicted apoB, may capture atherogenic particle burden beyond LDL-C, but its prognostic value for long-term mortality in secondary prevention remains uncertain. We conducted a pooled analysis of two nationwide Chinese cohorts (CIN-II and RED-CARPET) comprising 68,616 statin-treated CAD patients. Excess apoB was calculated using an internal reference population (triglycerides ≤ 1.0 mmol/L). Associations with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality were assessed using multivariable Cox models, with adjustment for clinical covariates including nutritional status. External validation was performed in 13,702 participants from the UK Biobank. Over a median follow-up of 5.2 years, 10,835 deaths occurred (5,090 cardiovascular). Each 1-standard deviation (15.4 mg/dL) increase in excess apoB was associated with a 12% higher risk of all-cause mortality (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 1.12, 95% CI 1.06-1.18) and a 24% higher risk of cardiovascular mortality (aHR 1.24, 95% CI 1.15-1.34). Patients in the highest excess apoB quartile (≥ 11.5 mg/dL) had significantly worse survival. Notably, these associations persisted consistently across all achieved LDL-C strata (< 2.0 to > 4.0 mmol/L). These findings were robustly confirmed in the external validation cohort. Excess apoB is an independent predictor of long-term mortality in statin-treated CAD patients, even among those with well-controlled LDL-C. Its incorporation into risk assessment could improve prognostic stratification and guide personalized management in secondary prevention. CIN-II: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05050877 (Retrospectively registered, 21 September 2021); RED-CARPET: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR2000039901 (Prospectively registered, 14 November 2020). The UK Biobank study is covered by generic ethical approval from the NHS National Research Ethics Service (Ref: 99231). Show less
This study evaluated the efficacy of combining personalized acupuncture with accelerated deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (adTMS) for mild cognitive impairment (MCI). In this randomized, double- Show more
This study evaluated the efficacy of combining personalized acupuncture with accelerated deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (adTMS) for mild cognitive impairment (MCI). In this randomized, double-blind, controlled trial, 120 MCI patients were assigned to a Combined group (personalized acupuncture + active adTMS), a Single Stimulation group (active adTMS + sham acupuncture), or a Placebo group (sham TMS + sham acupuncture). The primary outcome was the change in Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score at 12 weeks. Secondary outcomes included P300 latency, magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) NAA/Cr ratio, serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and the Modified Barthel Index (MBI). The Combined group showed a significantly greater improvement in MoCA scores (3.2 ± 1.3 points) compared to the Single Stimulation (1.9 ± 1.2 points; mean difference 1.3, 95 % CI 0.4 to 2.2) and Placebo groups (1.1 ± 1.0 points; mean difference 2.1, 95 % CI 1.2 to 3.0). The Combined group also demonstrated greater reductions in P300 latency and increases in NAA/Cr ratio and serum BDNF levels than the other groups. The combination of personalized acupuncture and adTMS significantly improves cognitive function in MCI patients, supported by positive changes in electrophysiological and metabolic markers. This integrative approach represents a promising non-pharmacological strategy for MCI.Trial registration: International Traditional Medicine Clinical Trials Registry (ITMCTR2025000652). Show less
Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH), a subclinical state underlying mild cognitive impairment (MCI), triggers multiple pathological changes associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and vascular demen Show more
Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH), a subclinical state underlying mild cognitive impairment (MCI), triggers multiple pathological changes associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and vascular dementia (VaD), including amyloid-β (Aβ) deposition, tau phosphorylation, microglial activation and neural circuit dysfunction. Developing multitarget therapeutics to effectively prevent the transition from MCI to AD and/or VaD remains an urgent challenge. Herein, we engineered a brain-targeted dual-modified PEGylated nanoliposome (LipTM@miR-195), incorporating mannose (MAN) and the trans-activating protein of HIV type 1 (TAT), which encapsulates polyethyleneimine (PEI) complesed microRNA-195 (miR-195). In a CCH rat model, tail-vein administration of LipTM@miR-195 (0.112 mg/kg) efficiently crossed the blood-brain barrier (BBB) without detectable side effects. Treatment reversed CCH-induced spatial learning and memory deficits, rescued neural circuit dysfunction, and suppressed elevated APP, BACE1, AT8 and CD68 levels. Collectively, these findings provide compelling evidence that LipTM@miR-195 nanoliposome holds therapeutic potential for CCH-induced cognitive impairment, thereby preventing the progression from MCI to AD and/or VaD. Show less
Growing evidence highlights that long-term orbital flight may lead to structural changes in brains and cognitive impairments in astronauts. However, effective strategies to counteract these effects re Show more
Growing evidence highlights that long-term orbital flight may lead to structural changes in brains and cognitive impairments in astronauts. However, effective strategies to counteract these effects remain limited. Compound Gastrodia elata Formula (CGEF), composed of Gastrodia elata Bl., Polygonatum sibirium Red., and Poria cocos (Schw.) Wolf has been shown to improve learning and memory. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects and underlying mechanisms of CGEF in attenuating cognitive deficiency induced by simulated weightlessness in mice. A cognitive impairment model was induced in mice using Hindlimb unloading (HU) method. Cognitive function was assessed through Object recognition test (ORT), the Morris water maze (MWM), and the Step-down Test (SDT). Serum and hippocampus levels of inflammatory markers, including Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), Tumor Necrosis Factor alpha (TNF-α), and Interleukin-6 (IL-6) were evaluated using ELISA. Neurotransmitter concentrations in the hippocampus and cortex were measured using LC-MS/MS. While Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) / Tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB) protein expression signaling pathway in hippocampus was evaluated by western blot. Results showed that CGEF treatment significantly reversed the memory deficits induced by four weeks of HU exposure. Furthermore, CGEF treatment markedly suppressed the production of inflammatory factors. It also assisted in the recovery of neurotransmitter balance and regulated tryptophan metabolism to improve cognitive disorder. Western blotting analysis revealed that CGEF treatment upregulated the expression of Synaptophysin, Postsynaptic density 95 proteins, while also activating the brain-derived neurotrophic factor-Tropomyosin receptor kinase B pathway. These findings suggest that CGEF has substantial potential for development as an aerospace health product to improve memory decline associated with spaceflight. Show less
This study aims to examine the health characteristics of female sex workers (FSWs) in entertainment venues and to investigate the relationship between these characteristics and sleep quality. This stu Show more
This study aims to examine the health characteristics of female sex workers (FSWs) in entertainment venues and to investigate the relationship between these characteristics and sleep quality. This study employed a cross-sectional design and was conducted from January to April 2024 in Wuhan, China. Participants were FSWs recruited through snowball sampling from entertainment venues, including hotels, restaurants, nightclubs, karaoke bars and dance halls. Data were collected via structured questionnaires covering sociodemographic information, work experience, psychological stress, health status, sleep quality and circadian rhythms. Latent profile analysis (LPA) was employed to identify health characteristic profiles among FSWs, and multivariate logistic regression was used to examine the associations between these profiles and sleep quality. Among the 1,036 FSWs surveyed, 45.1% had poor sleep quality. LPA classified FSWs’ health characteristics into three profiles: the high overall functioning group, the lower physical–emotional functioning group and the lower psychosocial functioning group. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that FSWs in the lower physical–emotional functioning group had higher odds of poor sleep quality (OR = 2.184) compared with those in the high overall functioning group. FSWs in the lower psychosocial functioning group had substantially higher odds of poor sleep quality (OR = 7.755) than that in the high overall functioning group. FSWs demonstrate substantial heterogeneity in health characteristics and exhibit lower overall sleep quality compared with the general population. Psychological and physiological factors are major influencing factors for their sleep quality, suggesting the importance of prioritising mental and physical health in this population. Show less
Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory condition marked by the deposition of lipids within the arterial wall and the infiltration of inflammatory cells, culminating in the development of atheroscle Show more
Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory condition marked by the deposition of lipids within the arterial wall and the infiltration of inflammatory cells, culminating in the development of atherosclerotic plaques. Ubiquitin-specific protease 18, USP18, a specific deubiquitinating enzyme, has been demonstrated to exert protective effects on the cardiovascular system. Pathological studies were performed utilizing human coronary arteries obtained from the Forensic Medical Examination Center of Guizhou Medical University, in conjunction with the aorta from experimental ApoE knockout mice. The ApoE knockout mice underwent intervention with adenovirus carrying USP18-RNAi and a control adenovirus containing hU6-MCS-CMV-EGFP, after which pathological analyses were conducted. In vitro, THP-1 cells, induced with phorbol ester, were subjected to treatment with si-USP18 or si-NC, followed by exposure to oxidized low-density lipoprotein. The expression levels of USP18 and proteins associated with the TAK1/NF-κB signaling pathway, as well as the interaction between USP18 and TAK1, were assessed using Western blotting, RT-PCR, and immunofluorescence techniques.The interaction between USP18 and TAK1 was confirmed using molecular docking techniques, co-immunoprecipitation assays, and immunofluorescence analysis. The purpose of this study is to explore the role of USP18 on atherosclerosis and the underlying mechanism. The expression of USP18 is elevated in early-stage human coronary atherosclerotic plaques but decreases in advanced lesions. Treatment of macrophages derived from THP-1 cells and bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) results in reduced USP18 expression. In ApoE USP18 modulates TAK1 to suppress the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway in macrophages, consequently exerting an anti-atherosclerotic effect and offering a potential therapeutic strategy for atherosclerosis treatment. Show less
To elucidate the molecular mechanism by which ginsenoside Rg3 (G-Rg3) protects human bronchial epithelial (HBE) cells against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced injury, focusing on its regulation of aut Show more
To elucidate the molecular mechanism by which ginsenoside Rg3 (G-Rg3) protects human bronchial epithelial (HBE) cells against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced injury, focusing on its regulation of autophagic flux and the TLR4/NF-κB-mediated inflammatory pathway. HBE cells were treated with LPS (1-100 ng/mL) to induce autophagy dysregulation and inflammation. G-Rg3 (2-16 μM) was administered to evaluate its protective effects. Western blotting was used to detect autophagy-related proteins (ATG4B, ATG7, PIK3C3, LC3B, p62) and TLR4/NF-κB signaling molecules; ELISA quantified proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-8); PI staining and flow cytometry analyzed cell death and apoptosis. LPS dose-dependently upregulated the expression of autophagy-related proteins (ATG4B, ATG7, PIK3C3, p62, LC3B-II), with accumulated p62 and LC3B-II indicating impaired clearance of autophagic substrates. Additionally, G-Rg3 inhibited LPS-induced TLR4/NF-κB activation, suppressed proinflammatory cytokine secretion, and attenuated HBE cell apoptosis/necrosis. G-Rg3 mitigates LPS-induced HBE cell injury by dual mechanisms: restoring impaired autophagic flux and inhibiting the TLR4/NF-κB inflammatory cascade. These findings identify G-Rg3 as a promising therapeutic agent targeting the crosstalk between autophagy and inflammation in respiratory diseases such as COPD and acute lung injury. Show less
Angiopoietin-like 4 (ANGPTL4) is a hepatokine involved in metabolism and inflammation and has been implicated in oncogenesis, yet its relationship with cancer risk in humans remains unclear. We analyz Show more
Angiopoietin-like 4 (ANGPTL4) is a hepatokine involved in metabolism and inflammation and has been implicated in oncogenesis, yet its relationship with cancer risk in humans remains unclear. We analyzed 35,716 cancer-free UK Biobank participants with baseline plasma ANGPTL4. Multivariable Cox models and restricted cubic splines assessed associations with 24 site-specific incident cancers; bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) evaluated causality. During a median follow-up of 12.5 years, 9304 incident cancer cases occurred. Compared with the lowest quartile (Q1), the higher quartiles (Q2, Q3, and Q4) of ANGPTL4 levels were significantly associated with the risks of ten cancers, including cancers of the bladder, breast, cervix uteri, colorectum/anus, esophagus, kidney, liver, mesothelial/soft tissues, multiple myeloma, and ovary (hazard ratios ranging from 1.02 to 3.98). Risks generally increased across ANGPTL4 quartiles, and spline analyses supported approximately linear dose-response patterns. Adding ANGPTL4 to an age-sex model improved discrimination across several sites (ΔC-index 0-0.071), with statistical significance observed only for breast cancer. Associations were directionally consistent but heterogeneous by age, sex, and BMI. Forward MR provided no evidence that genetically proxied ANGPTL4 causally increases cancer risk. In reverse MR, genetic liability to liver cancer showed a nominal positive association with circulating ANGPTL4, suggesting ANGPTL4 may be elevated as part of tumor-related biology. Higher circulating ANGPTL4 is associated with increased risk of multiple cancers, with sex-and tissue-specific heterogeneity. Although MR does not support a universal causal role, ANGPTL4 remains a promising pan-cancer biomarker for risk stratification and early prevention. Show less
Sodium perfluorononenoxybenzene sulfonate (OBS), a substitute for perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), has been frequently detected in the environment and human blood. Although OBS exposure has been iden Show more
Sodium perfluorononenoxybenzene sulfonate (OBS), a substitute for perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), has been frequently detected in the environment and human blood. Although OBS exposure has been identified as a novel risk factor for atherosclerosis associated with endothelial dysfunction, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, in vitro experiments using human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) demonstrated that OBS exposure induced oxidative stress, activated the PERK-eIF2α-ATF4 axis of endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and triggered NF-κB signaling. Pharmacological inhibition with N-acetylcysteine (NAC, an antioxidant), 4-phenylbutyric acid (4-PBA, an ERS inhibitor), and BAY 11-7082 (an inhibitor for NF-κB signaling pathway) revealed a sequential pathogenic cascade, in which oxidative stress acts upstream to initiate ERS and compromise endothelial barrier function, leading to NF-κB activation, which drives inflammatory responses, monocyte adhesion, and impaired endothelial migration. Consistent with these findings, in vivo experiments in ApoE Show less
Spinal cord injury (SCI) represents significant central nervous system trauma and has consistently been a focal point of research in the domain of neural regeneration and repair. Currently, there is n Show more
Spinal cord injury (SCI) represents significant central nervous system trauma and has consistently been a focal point of research in the domain of neural regeneration and repair. Currently, there is no effective treatment available. Various modalities of magnetic stimulation have emerged for recovery from spinal cord injuries; however, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear, significantly hindering the application of magnetic stimulation technologies in treating such injuries. This study aims to elucidate these relevant mechanisms by establishing a simulated closed-loop magnetic stimulation system. In this study, we established a right hemisection model at T8 in mice and administered continuous simulated closed-loop magnetic stimulation targeting the left motor cortex and right L5 nerve root over six weeks. We subsequently utilized a spinal cord dorsal hemisection model to examine regeneration of the corticospinal tract (CST). Motor-evoked potential assessments and calcium imaging techniques were employed to explore neural circuit repair. Additionally, we integrated transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics approaches to investigate related mechanisms. The findings indicate that simulated closed-loop magnetic stimulation effectively restores motor function in the hind limbs, promotes the regeneration of corticospinal tracts in mice with spinal cord injuries, and facilitates the reconstruction of sensorimotor circuits and functions within the spinal cord. Simulated closed-loop magnetic stimulation significantly enhances axonal regeneration of the CST following SCI. This effect may be mediated through the activation of the AMPK-CREB-BDNF signaling pathway, which promotes neurotrophic factor secretion and subsequently induces nerve axon regeneration. This study suggests that simulated closed-loop magnetic stimulation represents a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment for impaired gait following SCI. Show less
Myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury commonly occurs in patients undergoing cardiac or noncardiac surgeries, increasing perioperative mortality risk. Although numerous endogenous mediators rel Show more
Myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury commonly occurs in patients undergoing cardiac or noncardiac surgeries, increasing perioperative mortality risk. Although numerous endogenous mediators released during I/R contribute to myocardial damage, their mechanisms require further elucidation. We investigated whether lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), a bioactive phospholipid, mediates myocardial I/R injury by interacting with cardiac transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1). A TRPV1K710N knock-in mouse model was generated by CRISPR/Cas9, introducing a point mutation at K710, the known LPA-binding site on TRPV1. Langendorff perfused isolated hearts from TRPV1K710N and wild-type (WT) mice underwent global I/R injury with or without exogenous LPA (10 μM). Myocardial infarct size, coronary effluent LDH levels, and mitochondrial ultrastructure/function were assessed. Additionally, H9c2 cardiomyocytes were transfected with a pCMV6-entry plasmid carrying TRPV1-K710N or TRPV1-WT for mitochondrial calcium influx and cell viability assays. The V1-Cal peptide (1μM), targeting the K710 region, was applied ex vivo and in vitro to block LPA-TRPV1 interaction. TRPV1K710N hearts exhibited resistance to global I/R injury versus WT hearts, with reduced infarct size (28.3 ± 2.4% vs 39.9 ±2.3%, respectively, P= 0006), lower LDH levels, and attenuated mitochondrial damage. Exogenous LPA exacerbated I/R injury in WT hearts, increasing infarct size (63.7 ± 1.2% vs vehicle: 38.4 ± 2.4%; P <.0001), LDH release, and mitochondrial damage. TRPV1K710N hearts were resistant to LPA-induced injury, with no significant increase in infarct size after LPA treatment. Exogenous LPA induced pronounced swelling in mitochondria isolated from WT hearts, while mitochondria from TRPV1K710N hearts showed resistance to LPA challenge. In H9c2 cells, LPA significantly decreased viability in rTRPV1-WT cells and elevated mitochondrial calcium influx relative to rTRPV1-K710N cells. V1-Cal peptide attenuated LPA-mediated myocardial injury in WT hearts and reduced mitochondrial calcium overload in H9c2 cells. Blockade of the TRPV1 K710 site by K710N mutation or V1-Cal peptide mitigates LPA-mediated myocardial injury and mitochondrial damage/dysfunction in isolated mouse hearts. Targeting the cardiac LPA-TRPV1 interaction represents a promising therapeutic strategy against perioperative myocardial injury. Show less
Impaired synaptic plasticity underlies cognitive impairment as a core pathological substrate. While aerobic exercise represents a significant non-pharmacological intervention for enhancing synaptic pl Show more
Impaired synaptic plasticity underlies cognitive impairment as a core pathological substrate. While aerobic exercise represents a significant non-pharmacological intervention for enhancing synaptic plasticity, its precise molecular mechanisms remain incompletely defined. This study investigated whether aerobic exercise ameliorates synaptic plasticity and synaptic loss in Apolipoprotein E homozygous knockout (APOE Show less
Metabolic‒epigenetic crosstalk critically orchestrates hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) pathogenesis. Deciphering the precise mechanism underlying epigenetic remodeling and metabolic reprogramming in HC Show more
Metabolic‒epigenetic crosstalk critically orchestrates hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) pathogenesis. Deciphering the precise mechanism underlying epigenetic remodeling and metabolic reprogramming in HCC may lead to novel treatment paradigms, however, the key mechanisms remain elusive. RT-qPCR, western blotting and tissue microarrary Immunohistochemistry were used to detect the expression of RasGEF domain family member 1B (RASGEF1B) in HCC and normal liver tissues. Transcriptome sequencing and high-resolution untargeted metabolomics were integrated to identify the downstream regulatory mechanism through which RASGEF1B inhibited the HCC progression. Epigenetic regulation was investigated using methylation-specific PCR and luciferase reporter assays. Bioinformatic prediction and molecular docking suggested a functional interplay among RASGEF1B, ALDH7A1, and BMI1, which was experimentally confirmed through coimmunoprecipitation, GST pull-down, and immunofluorescence assays. Protein stability and ubiquitination status of ALDH7A1 were examined using cycloheximide, immunoprecipitation assay, and an in vitro reconstituted ubiquitination system. In this study, the antitumor role of RASGEF1B was confirmed in vitro and in vivo. Transcriptomic profiling revealed that RASGEF1B overexpression significantly reduced the snail family transcriptional repressor 1 (SNAI1), a master regulator of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Untargeted metabolomics revealed that RASGEF1B promoted SNAI1 DNA methylation through Betaine-mediated methionine metabolic reprogramming. Further analysis confirmed that RASGEF1B competitively protected the ALDH7A1 protein from BMI1-dependent ubiquitination, thereby elevating cellular Betaine levels in HCC. This study revealed that RASGEF1B inhibited SNAI1 to suppress HCC through metabolite‒epigenetic crosstalk. Our findings potentially offer a new perspective on the classical RAS signaling framework, uncovering a metabolic‒epigenetic axis as an innovative therapeutic approach for improving clinical outcomes in patients with HCC. [Image: see text] The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12967-026-07785-z. Show less
Autoimmune uveitis (AU) is a category of sight-threatening diseases with different pathological causes. Transcriptomic analysis of patients with AU revealed a highly oxidative stress profile as well a Show more
Autoimmune uveitis (AU) is a category of sight-threatening diseases with different pathological causes. Transcriptomic analysis of patients with AU revealed a highly oxidative stress profile as well as an up-regulated Show less
Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] has been recognized as a genetically determined and independent contributor to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. However, its role in lower extremity arterial disease (LEA Show more
Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] has been recognized as a genetically determined and independent contributor to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. However, its role in lower extremity arterial disease (LEAD) among individuals with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) remains insufficiently studied. Given the overlapping metabolic disturbances in both conditions, such as insulin resistance and lipid abnormalities, a potential relationship between Lp(a) and peripheral vascular injury in MASLD is biologically plausible. This study aimed to investigate the cross-sectional association between circulating Lp(a) concentrations and the presence of LEAD in a well-characterized MASLD population. A total of 468 MASLD patients undergoing routine health check-ups were included. Lp(a) levels were stratified into three categories: <10 mg/dL, 10–30 mg/dL, and ≥ 30 mg/dL. LEAD was diagnosed using duplex ultrasonography. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess the relationship between Lp(a) levels and the presence of LEAD, with adjustments for demographic variables, metabolic conditions, and lipid-related parameters. Subgroup analyses were conducted to assess potential effect modification. LEAD was diagnosed in 61.5% ( Elevated Lp(a) levels were associated with a higher prevalence of LEAD in patients with MASLD. Although the magnitude of association per unit increase was modest, higher Lp(a) concentrations were associated with greater LEAD prevalence. These findings should be interpreted cautiously and viewed as hypothesis-generating, particularly with respect to subgroup analyses. Prospective studies are needed to clarify causality and clinical relevance. The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12872-026-05600-7. Show less
Silica exposure precipitates irreversible lung injury; however, its long-term neurological sequelae—and the microglial mechanisms underlying these effects—remain poorly understood. Here, we demonstrat Show more
Silica exposure precipitates irreversible lung injury; however, its long-term neurological sequelae—and the microglial mechanisms underlying these effects—remain poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that inhaled crystalline silica induces persistent hippocampal inflammation, anxiety- and depression-like behaviors, and neuronal loss in mice. Bulk RNA sequencing, immunophenotyping, and pharmacological depletion studies revealed that microglia are the primary source of complement C1q in silica-exposed brains. Mechanistically, silica-induced lipocalin-2 (LCN2) engages the melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) on microglia, activating a cAMP/PKA/NF-κB cascade that transcriptionally upregulates C1q. Pharmacological blockade of MC4R (using PF) abolished C1q overproduction, normalized brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels, and restored both synaptic integrity and behavioral performance. Our findings establish the LCN2–MC4R–C1q axis as a critical microglial pathway in silica-related neurotoxicity and identify MC4R antagonism as a promising, readily translatable intervention for occupational neuroinflammation. The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12974-026-03695-5. Show less
Atherosclerosis is a chronic and progressive inflammatory disease that can lead to adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events. Phenotypic switching of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) plays Show more
Atherosclerosis is a chronic and progressive inflammatory disease that can lead to adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events. Phenotypic switching of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) plays a pivotal role in its development and progression, but the upstream regulatory mechanisms remain incompletely defined. Here, we identify ubiquitin-fold modifier 1 (UFM1), a ubiquitin-like protein, as a critical regulator of VSMCs plasticity and atherogenesis. In VSMCs stimulated with oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL), UFM1 overexpression markedly attenuated phenotypic switching, restoring contractile features and suppressing synthetic activation, accompanied by reduced proliferation and migration. In contrast, UFM1 knockdown further exacerbated these phenotypic alterations. In ApoE Show less
The Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway is a key regulator of adipogenesis and lipid metabolism. However, the specific role of its receptor, Patched2 (Ptch2), in these processes remains unclear. Here, usi Show more
The Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway is a key regulator of adipogenesis and lipid metabolism. However, the specific role of its receptor, Patched2 (Ptch2), in these processes remains unclear. Here, using a CRISPR/Cas9-mediated Show less
Despite of the highly potent antiretroviral therapies, HIV-1 establishes persistent infection and causes chronic inflammation in AIDS patients. Beyond CD4+ T cells, HIV-1 infects myeloid cells, includ Show more
Despite of the highly potent antiretroviral therapies, HIV-1 establishes persistent infection and causes chronic inflammation in AIDS patients. Beyond CD4+ T cells, HIV-1 infects myeloid cells, including circulating monocytes and tissue-resident macrophages, and integrates with host genomes to form stable viral reservoirs. To achieve a functional HIV cure, latency-promoting agents (LPAs) have been developed for the "block-and-lock" strategy to reinforce deep HIV-1 latency and permanently silence proviruses. However, most LPAs have been tested mainly in CD4 Show less
Families with children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often encounter significant challenges, manifesting in elevated stress levels and compromised physical and mental well-being. This Show more
Families with children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often encounter significant challenges, manifesting in elevated stress levels and compromised physical and mental well-being. This study employed Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) to comprehensively examine family resilience attributes among 328 Chinese parents of children with ASD. Drawing on Walsh's family resilience framework and the Double ABCX stress-adaptation model, the research examined how protective factors (social support, posttraumatic growth) and risk factors (family stressors) distinctively characterize resilience profiles and predict profile membership, alongside sociodemographic correlates. Through rigorous statistical analysis, the following three distinct family resilience profiles emerged: adversity (32.31%; characterized by low resilience), ordinary (46.65%; demonstrating moderate resilience) and growth (21.03%; exhibiting high resilience). Critically, the findings revealed that higher family income, perceived social support and posttraumatic growth were associated with higher family resilience, while family stressors were associated with lower family resilience. These insights underscore the importance of developing targeted, personalized intervention strategies that can effectively enhance familial coping mechanisms and psychological adaptation for families navigating the complex challenges of ASD. Show less
About 20-40% of prostate cancer (PCa) develop biochemical recurrence (BCR) after surgery, and propionate metabolism may contribute to tumor progression. BCR remains a major clinical challenge in PCa, Show more
About 20-40% of prostate cancer (PCa) develop biochemical recurrence (BCR) after surgery, and propionate metabolism may contribute to tumor progression. BCR remains a major clinical challenge in PCa, as current tools based on histopathology and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) fail to capture the molecular heterogeneity driving the disease. While metabolic reprogramming is known to facilitate post-treatment adaptation, the specific role of propionate metabolism in this context remains largely unexplored. Therefore, this study aimed to systematically investigate propionate metabolism-related genes (PMRGs) to develop a novel prognostic model for the improved early prediction of recurrence. In this study, The Cancer Genome Atlas-Prostate Adenocarcinoma (TCGA-PRAD), GSE70770 and 412 PMRGs were employed. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in PCa and control and DEGs2 in BCR and no BCR samples obtained by differential analysis were intersected with PMRGs to get candidate genes. After Cox and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analyses, biomarkers were identified to construct risk models. Biomarkers including In this study, PMRGs were regarded as biomarkers in PCa for risk model construction, which suggest that propionate metabolism represents a biologically relevant axis in PCa recurrence and may offer a novel framework for biomarker-driven risk assessment. Show less