Dementia is a growing public health concern, and although diet is a modifiable potential risk factor, the role of free sugar intake remains unclear. Excess sugar has been linked to metabolic and cardi Show more
Dementia is a growing public health concern, and although diet is a modifiable potential risk factor, the role of free sugar intake remains unclear. Excess sugar has been linked to metabolic and cardiovascular dysfunction, both associated with cognitive decline, but evidence regarding specific sugar sources is limited. This study aimed to investigate the associations between free sugar intake, its dietary sources, and the risk of all-cause dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and vascular dementia, and to assess potential modification by apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 status. We included 27,786 participants without dementia at baseline (mean age: 58 y; 61% females) from the Malmö Diet and Cancer Study, a population-based prospective cohort. Dietary intake was assessed using a validated diet history method. Dementia diagnoses were obtained from national registers and validated by memory clinic physicians. During a median follow-up of 25 y, 3224 participants (11.6%) were diagnosed with dementia. Free sugar intake was not significantly associated with all-cause dementia or Alzheimer's disease. However, a U-shaped association was observed for vascular dementia, with moderate intake (10%-12.5% of energy) associated with lower risk [hazard ratio (HR): 0.70; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.52, 0.95]. Sugar-sweetened beverage intake showed no association with dementia risk. High chocolate intake was associated with lower risks of all-cause [HR for quintile 5 (Q5) compared with Q1: 0.81; 95% CI: 0.72, 0.91] and vascular dementia (HR for Q5 compared with Q1: 0.68; 95% CI: 0.50, 0.92), whereas high jam/marmalade intake was linked to a lower risk of all-cause dementia (HR: 0.86; 95% CI: 0.77, 0.97 for >10 servings per week compared with <0.5 servings per week). No significant interactions with APOE ε4 status were observed. Free sugar intake was not associated with overall dementia risk, but moderate intake may reduce the risk of vascular dementia. These findings suggest that future dietary guidelines for cognitive health should consider not only sugar quantity but also its food source. Show less
The apolipoprotein E ε4 (APOE ε4), a well-established genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD), is deeply involved in amyloid-β (Aβ) and tau pathology. Blood-based biomarkers (BBMs), including Show more
The apolipoprotein E ε4 (APOE ε4), a well-established genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD), is deeply involved in amyloid-β (Aβ) and tau pathology. Blood-based biomarkers (BBMs), including Aβ42/40, phosphorylated tau (p-tau181), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and neurofilament light (NfL), offer accessible proxies of AD pathology. Reactive astrocytes, indicated by elevated GFAP, are increasingly recognized as key players in AD progression. However, how astrocyte reactivity interacts with APOE genotype to shape BBMs and Aβ deposition remains unclear. We included 283 participants across the cognitive spectrum including cognitively unimpaired (CU), mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and all-cause dementia (ACD) from Guangzhou health aging and dementia cohort. Primary outcome measures were plasma biomarkers (Aβ42/40 ratio, p-tau181, GFAP, and NfL) and amyloid PET standardized uptake value ratio (SUVR). Participants were stratified by APOE ε4 carrier status and astrocyte activation. Group comparisons, correlation analyses, and sensitivity analyses were performed. Stage-dependent APOE effects were observed: while modulating Aβ42/40 ratios in both CU and MCI, APOE influenced p-Tau181 only in MCI, exclusively under Ast-. SUVR was significantly higher in APOE ε4 + group at MCI stage, particularly in Ast- cases. Intriguingly, p-Tau/Aβ42 showed strong SUVR correlations across all subgroups except APOE ε4- Ast- group. Our findings indicate that astrocyte reactivity is associated with differences in how APOE ε4 relates to both peripheral BBMs and central Aβ deposition, supporting an interplay between genetic risk and neuroinflammatory states in AD pathogenesis. Show less
The full impact of APOE4 (apolipoprotein E4), the strongest genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD), on neuronal and network function remains unclear, particularly during early preclinical st Show more
The full impact of APOE4 (apolipoprotein E4), the strongest genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD), on neuronal and network function remains unclear, particularly during early preclinical stages of disease. Here we show that young APOE4 knockin (E4-KI) mice exhibit hippocampal region-specific network hyperexcitability that predicts later cognitive deficits. This early phenotype arises from cell-type-specific subpopulations of smaller, hyperexcitable neurons and is eliminated by selective removal of neuronal APOE4. With aging, E4-KI mice develop granule cell hyperexcitability, progressive inhibitory dysfunction and excitation-inhibition imbalance in the dentate gyrus. Single-nucleus RNA sequencing with multilevel gene filtering reveals age-dependent and cell-type-specific transcriptional changes and identifies candidate mediators of early neuronal hyperexcitability, including Nell2. Targeted CRISPR interference knockdown of Nell2 rescues abnormal excitability, implicating Nell2 as a contributor to APOE4-driven dysfunction. Together, these findings define molecular and circuit mechanisms linking neuronal APOE4-induced early network impairment to AD pathogenesis with aging. Show less
High temperature requirement protein A1 (HTRA1) is a trypsin-like serine protease increasingly recognized as a central regulator of brain homeostasis. HTRA1 is broadly expressed in the brain, where it Show more
High temperature requirement protein A1 (HTRA1) is a trypsin-like serine protease increasingly recognized as a central regulator of brain homeostasis. HTRA1 is broadly expressed in the brain, where it regulates proteostasis, extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, and important signaling pathways such as TGF-β, Wnt, and Notch. These functions are essential for maintaining blood-brain barrier integrity, supporting tissue repair, and restraining inflammation. HTRA1 is a double-edged sword, as both insufficient and excessive activity can lead to neurodegenerative and vascular pathology. Reduced HTRA1 levels are linked to ECM accumulation and vascular fibrosis, while elevated activity contributes to tissue breakdown, inflammation, and impaired repair. This dual role is implicated in a range of disorders, including cerebral autosomal recessive arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy, small vessel disease, age-related macular degeneration, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis. We review recent insights into HTRA1's interactions with ApoE and tau, its roles in lipid and cytoskeletal regulation, and its modulation by inhibitors such as Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor. Finally, we explore its biomarker potential and therapeutic targeting strategies. Understanding the mechanisms behind HTRA1's shift from protective to pathological is crucial for developing targeted therapies that preserve its beneficial roles. Show less
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory joint disorder in which macrophages play crucial roles. Given macrophage heterogeneity, novel biomarkers are needed for timely diagnosis and severit Show more
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory joint disorder in which macrophages play crucial roles. Given macrophage heterogeneity, novel biomarkers are needed for timely diagnosis and severity assessment. This study aimed to identify macrophage-specific hub genes in RA and investigate their biological functions. Bulk and single-cell RNA-seq datasets were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in RA synovial macrophages were identified from the GSE97779 dataset using the Limma R package. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses were performed to determine the biological processes and pathways associated with the DEGs, followed by Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) for further validation. Hub genes were identified using the STRING database and Cytoscape. Based on the single‑cell dataset GSE192504, cell clusters were annotated with Seurat to determine macrophage‑specific hub genes, whose associated biological processes were explored via gene set variation analysis (GSVA). Further sub‑clustering revealed distinct macrophage subtypes. Finally, immunofluorescence staining was performed to identify molecular markers of macrophage subtypes, while RT-qPCR and ELISA were used to validate the mRNA and protein expression of macrophage-specific hub genes in in vitro experiments. We identified 334 DEGs enriched in immune-related pathways. Ten hub genes ( Show less
Guoan Zhang, Baoguo Song, Xiaoyan Huang+1 more · 2026 · Inflammation research : official journal of the European Histamine Research Society ... [et al.] · Springer · added 2026-04-24
In our previous study, we identified Niemann-Pick C1 like intracellular cholesterol transporter 1 (NPC1L1) as a key contributor in lipid oxidative stress during atherosclerosis (AS) progression. Howev Show more
In our previous study, we identified Niemann-Pick C1 like intracellular cholesterol transporter 1 (NPC1L1) as a key contributor in lipid oxidative stress during atherosclerosis (AS) progression. However, the regulation mode of its expression and the specific approaches by which it functions in lipid oxidative stress are still unclear. HUVECs and macrophages were treated with oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) to induce endothelial cell injury. First, the effects of the RNA binding proteins IGF2BP1 and poly (A) binding protein cytoplasmic 1 (PABPC1) on the stability of NPC1L1 mRNA was evaluated. The interaction between NPC1L1 and cytochrome P450 family 11 subfamily A member 1 (CYP11A1) was analyzed using Co-IP, and the co-localization of the two was detected using immunofluorescence. Combined with qPCR, Western blotting, CCK8, ferroptosis-related index and mitophagy-related index determination were performed to evaluate the expression of CYP11A1 in ox-LDL-treated HUVECs and its role of ferroptosis and mitophagy. Subsequently, pcDNA-NPC1L1 or CYP11A1 siRNA were individually or altogether transfected into ox-LDL-treated HUVECs to verify the involvement of CYP11A1 in NPC1L1-mediated ferroptosis and mitochondrial oxidative stress. Finally, ApoE-/- mice were fed with high-fat diet to establish an AS model in vivo and sh-NPC1L1 and/or Ad-CYP11A1 were injected via tail vein to verify the therapeutic effect of NPC1L1 knockdown on AS and reversal effect of CYP11A1. Either knockdown of IGF2BP1 or PABPC1 reduced NPC1L1 mRNA stability. Mechanistically, NPC1L1 interacted with CYP11A1 and promoted CYP11A1 protein expression. CYP11A1 was upregulated in ox-LDL-treated HUVECs and overexpression of CYP11A1 induced ferroptosis by activating excessive mitophagy, and knockdown of CYP11A1 reversed the promotion of NPC1L1 on mitophagy and ferroptosis in ox-LDL treated HUVECs. In vivo, injection of the sh-NPC1L1 lentiviral vector inhibited AS progression, while injection of the LV-CYP11A1 lentiviral vector attenuated the protective effect of sh-NPC1L1 on AS. PABPC1 and IGF2BP1 synergistically stabilized NPC1L1 mRNA, and NPC1L1 interacted with CYP11A1 to induce endothelial mitophagy and ferroptosis during AS. Show less
Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by lipid-driven immune dysregulation. Argininosuccinate synthase 1 (ASS1) has been implicated in macrophage inflammation, yet its precis Show more
Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by lipid-driven immune dysregulation. Argininosuccinate synthase 1 (ASS1) has been implicated in macrophage inflammation, yet its precise mechanistic role in foam cell-mediated vascular injury during atherosclerosis remains unclear. This study investigates whether ASS1 promotes disease progression via the NLRP3/IL-33/ST2 axis. An Ox-LDL treatment significantly upregulated ASS1 expression in U937-derived foam cells. ASS1 overexpression enhanced intracellular ROS production, NLRP3 inflammasome activation, STAT3 phosphorylation, and IL-33 secretion. These effects were reversed by ASS1 knockdown. Rescue experiments demonstrated that STAT3 is required for ASS1-mediated NLRP3 activation and IL-33 upregulation. ASS1 altered IL-33 receptor ST2 signaling by increasing the soluble decoy isoform (sST2) and decreasing the membrane-bound signaling isoform (ST2L). In co-culture, ASS1-overexpressing foam cells promoted HUVEC apoptosis (via mitochondrial pathway) and HAVSMC proliferation, migration, and dedifferentiation. NLRP3 overexpression alone mimicked the pro-inflammatory effects of ASS1 and reversed the anti-inflammatory effects of ASS1 knockdown. ASS1 drives atherosclerosis by activating the STAT3/NLRP3 inflammasome axis, shifting the IL-33/ST2 balance toward a pro-inflammatory state, and amplifying foam cell-mediated endothelial injury and smooth muscle cell dysfunction. Targeting ASS1 may offer a novel therapeutic strategy for inflammatory vascular disease. Show less
Hyperlipidemia is highly prevalent worldwide and can affect cardiac pathophysiology. This study aimed to compare the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and moderate-intensity continuou Show more
Hyperlipidemia is highly prevalent worldwide and can affect cardiac pathophysiology. This study aimed to compare the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) on the molecular mechanisms of myocardial stress and pathological remodeling in non-obese apolipoprotein E knockout ( Thirty-five 8-week-old male The HFD condition increased serum total cholesterol (TC) and triglyceride (TG) levels, but did not increase body weight, consistent with a lean hyperlipidemia model. Compared with the MICT condition, the HIIT condition demonstrated superior efficacy in reducing HFD-induced TC, TG and BNP levels ( In a non-obese, hypercholesterolemic Show less
The rupture of vulnerable plaques (VPs) serves as the pathophysiological foundation for the occurrence of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The senescence of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) is pivot Show more
The rupture of vulnerable plaques (VPs) serves as the pathophysiological foundation for the occurrence of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The senescence of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) is pivotal in the formation and even rupture of VPs. Although previous studies have demonstrated that Sirt2 contributes to the attenuation of vascular aging, its specific mechanisms in VSMC senescence and vulnerable plaque formation remain poorly understood. This study aimed to explore the underlying mechanism of Sirt2 in the formation of vulnerable plaques. Male ApoE Show less
According to existing research findings, dihydroartemisinin effectively regulates bone metabolism balance, while ferroptosis is closely related to the occurrence of steroid-induced osteonecrosis of th Show more
According to existing research findings, dihydroartemisinin effectively regulates bone metabolism balance, while ferroptosis is closely related to the occurrence of steroid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head. As the exact biological mechanism among the three is still unclear, Mendelian randomization, computer-aided drug design, and transcriptomics sequencing were used to explore the specific mechanism of action. The study validated the specific signaling pathways through which dihydroartemisinin may treat steroid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head using animal experiments and transcriptomics sequencing. Data were obtained from public databases for Mendelian randomization analysis, and a two-sample Mendelian randomization was used to determine the intermediary role of core pathway-related targets. Computer-aided drug design was employed to assess the binding affinity between dihydroartemisinin and core targets. Transcriptome sequencing determined that dihydroartemisinin may treat steroid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head by regulating ferroptosis. We obtained 564 ferroptosis-related targets that met the analysis criteria and 1812 plasma proteins from the UK Biobank, and analyzed finngen_R11_OSTEON_DRUGS in the Finnish database as outcome. The results showed that there were two quantitative trait loci that had a causal relationship with ferroptosis targets. There were 110 protein quantitative trait loci causally associated with plasma proteins from the UK Biobank, and none of these loci had an inverse causal relationship with SONFH. Through mediation analysis, 7 mediating pathways were identified, yielding eight targets including ZP3, CCL17, APOE, C7ORF50, SPINK4, SPINK2, FTMT, and PRDX6. Computer-aided drug design revealed that CCL17 and PRDX6 exhibited the best docking effects. The study determined that CCL17 and PRDX6 have a significant causal relationship with SONFH. It also clarified the specific mechanism by which DHA may regulate ferroptosis to treat SONFH, which will provide a reference for the discussion of the prevention and treatment mechanisms of SONFH. Show less
Atherosclerotic plaque instability is a direct cause of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events. In this study, a mitochondria-targeted liposome (LIP), modified with triphenylphosphonium (TPP) to en Show more
Atherosclerotic plaque instability is a direct cause of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events. In this study, a mitochondria-targeted liposome (LIP), modified with triphenylphosphonium (TPP) to enable specific mitochondrial delivery, was innovatively constructed to encapsulate a PCSK9 inhibitor (TPP-LIP@PCSK9). The aim was to explore a novel strategy for stabilizing plaques by restoring mitochondrial function in endothelial cells. Characterization results showed that TPP-LIP@PCSK9 possesses favorable nano-characteristics, and its targeting capability was confirmed through mitochondrial co-localization experiments. In an Apoe Show less
Atherosclerosis, a major contributor to cardiovascular diseases, is characterized by chronic inflammation in arterial walls. The role of NF-κB signaling in this process is well-established, but the up Show more
Atherosclerosis, a major contributor to cardiovascular diseases, is characterized by chronic inflammation in arterial walls. The role of NF-κB signaling in this process is well-established, but the upstream regulators remain incompletely understood. This study explored the role of TRIM47, an E3 ubiquitin ligase, in promoting atherosclerosis through NF-κB activation. In vitro studies used human umbilical vein endothelial cells (EC) treated with oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL). TRIM47 expression was modulated using siRNA knockdown and overexpression plasmids. Inflammation markers, cell viability, and NF-κB activation were assessed. In vivo studies utilized ApoE-/- mice fed a high-fat diet and treated with adenovirus-mediated TRIM47 knockdown. ox-LDL treatment increased TRIM47 expression in EC, alongside elevated inflammatory markers, and reduced cell viability. TRIM47 overexpression exacerbated ox-LDL-induced inflammation, while knockdown attenuated these effects. Mechanistically, TRIM47 directly interacted with IκBα, promoting its ubiquitination and degradation, leading to enhanced NF-κB activation. In ApoE-/- mice, TRIM47 knockdown significantly reduced atherosclerotic plaque formation and lesion size. This study identified TRIM47 as a novel regulator of atherosclerosis progression through IκBα ubiquitination and NF-κB activation. TRIM47 knockdown attenuated vascular inflammation and atherosclerotic plaque formation. The findings suggested that TRIM47 might be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of atherosclerosis and related cardiovascular diseases. Show less
Increasing evidence indicates that modulating pyroptosis in endothelial cells (ECs) can alleviate atherosclerosis (AS) progression; however, despite reports that nucleolin (NCL) regulates vascular smo Show more
Increasing evidence indicates that modulating pyroptosis in endothelial cells (ECs) can alleviate atherosclerosis (AS) progression; however, despite reports that nucleolin (NCL) regulates vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation in AS, the potential mechanism by which cell surface NCL mediates pyroptosis in ECs during AS remains poorly understood. AS was induced in ApoE AS model mice developed severe aortic lesions accompanied by pronounced EC pyroptosis and inflammation, together with elevated NCL expression in ECs of the aortic root. Both inhibition of NLRP3 and NCL knockdown alleviated atherosclerotic lesion severity in ApoE This study demonstrates that, in AS, NCL exacerbates EC pyroptosis and promotes disease progression by facilitating nuclear transport of RASSF2. This study defines the mechanistic roles of NCL in AS, thereby identifying a new molecular pathway and suggesting potential therapeutic targets. Show less
Endothelial cells under oxidative stress and inflammation are vital contributors to the progression of atherosclerosis. Although Orientin possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, the ef Show more
Endothelial cells under oxidative stress and inflammation are vital contributors to the progression of atherosclerosis. Although Orientin possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, the effects of Orientin on oxidized low-density lipoprotein and high glucose (ox-LDL/HG)-triggered endothelial cell injury and diabetes-accelerated atherosclerosis remain unclear. ApoE Show less
Individuals with prediabetes or diabetes face elevated dementia risk, yet robust prediction tools and mechanistic insights remain limited. This study aimed to develop and validate a protein-based risk Show more
Individuals with prediabetes or diabetes face elevated dementia risk, yet robust prediction tools and mechanistic insights remain limited. This study aimed to develop and validate a protein-based risk score for dementia prediction in this high-risk population while elucidating underlying biological pathways and therapeutic targets. Utilising data from 10 433 UK Biobank participants with prediabetes or diabetes and proteomic profiling (2911 plasma proteins measured), we developed a dementia protein risk score in a training set ( In the training set, 23 out of 2911 proteins were selected. In the testing set, compared with the basic model (age and sex, C-index: 0.78; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.74-0.82), the dementia protein risk score (C-index: 0.84; 95% CI 0.81-0.88) significantly improved the performance in predicting incident dementia (C-index increase: 0.06; 95% CI 0.02-0.12), while cardiovascular risk factors, ageing and dementia incidence risk factors (C-index: 0.80; 95% CI 0.76-0.83) and apolipoprotein E (APOE; age and sex included, C-index: 0.81; 95% CI 0.77-0.85) had no significant improvement. Six key proteins (glial fibrillary acidic protein [GFAP], neurofilament light polypeptide [NEFL], Brevican core protein [BCAN], protein MENT [MENT], APOE and growth/differentiation factor 15 [GDF15]) captured the most predictive power. Pathway analyses implicated extracellular matrix remodelling and cholesterol metabolism, whereas Mendelian randomisation identified causal roles for APOE, haematopoietic prostaglandin D synthase (HPGDS), BAG family molecular chaperone regulator 3 (BAG3) and GDF15. Nine proteins were prioritised as druggable targets, including HPGDS, with existing Food and Drug Administration-approved drugs. This study establishes a highly accurate protein-based risk score for dementia prediction (including 6-23 proteins) in individuals with prediabetes or diabetes, uncovering actionable biological pathways and therapeutic targets. The findings enable precision risk stratification and accelerate translational opportunities for dementia prevention in this population. Show less
The selective cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) inhibitor obicetrapib is in clinical evaluation for dyslipidemia and cardiovascular risk reduction. This study investigated how obicetrapib alon Show more
The selective cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) inhibitor obicetrapib is in clinical evaluation for dyslipidemia and cardiovascular risk reduction. This study investigated how obicetrapib alone and with ezetimibe reduces non-HDL-C, affects atherosclerotic lesion progression, and regression when added to background atorvastatin intervention. APOE∗3-Leiden.CETP mice received a Western-type diet (WTD) or this diet supplemented with obicetrapib, ezetimibe, or both. After 8 weeks, all interventions reduced non-HDL-C levels (obicetrapib: -53%; ezetimibe: -19%; combination: -75%). Obicetrapib mono and combination treatment blocked CETP activity (-99% and -98%), thereby increasing HDL-C levels (+286% and +256%). Very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol production was not affected, while obicetrapib and the combination with ezetimibe increased VLDL clearance (plasma half-life [ 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
Accurate prediction of progression from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to Alzheimer's disease (AD) is critical for early intervention. Many existing models lack the ability to capture the nonlinear n Show more
Accurate prediction of progression from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to Alzheimer's disease (AD) is critical for early intervention. Many existing models lack the ability to capture the nonlinear nature of cognitive decline and individual heterogeneity. This study employed a semi‑parametric joint model to analyze longitudinal cognitive trajectories and identify robust predictors of conversion. Data from 596 participants (184 AD converters, 412 stable MCI) were obtained from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI). Longitudinal assessments included ADAS‑Cog13, ADAS‑Cog11, CDR‑SB, FAQ, RAVLT‑IR, RAVLT‑L, and MMSE. A semi‑parametric joint model combining B‑splines for the longitudinal process with a Cox survival submodel was fitted for each cognitive measure. Model performance was evaluated using AIC, BIC, intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), time‑dependent C‑index, dynamic AUC, and calibration curves. Subgroup analyses were conducted by APOE‑ε4 carrier status. In multivariable joint models, APOE‑ε4 carriage was a consistent risk factor (HR range: 1.38-1.77). Higher scores on ADAS‑Cog13 (HR = 3.71 per SD), ADAS‑Cog11 (HR = 2.71), CDR‑SB (HR = 3.79), and FAQ (HR = 2.85) increased the hazard of conversion, whereas higher scores on RAVLT‑IR (HR = 0.23), RAVLT‑L (HR = 0.14), and MMSE (HR = 0.53) were protective. All models showed high ICCs (0.94-0.98) and moderate‑to‑good predictive accuracy over 2, 5, and 8 year horizons (C‑index: 0.585-0.668). CDR‑SB and FAQ exhibited the strongest effect sizes and clearest dose‑dependent trajectories across APOE‑ε4 subgroups. Calibration curves demonstrated good agreement between predicted and observed survival. The semi‑parametric joint model effectively captures nonlinear cognitive‑functional decline and provides validated predictions of AD risk. APOE‑ε4 genotype combined with longitudinal monitoring of CDR‑SB and FAQ offers a robust framework for stratifying progression risk in clinical MCI management. 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
Tripartite motif-containing protein 21 (TRIM21), an E3 ubiquitin ligase of the TRIM superfamily, modulates critical cellular processes including ubiquitination, autophagy, and oxidative stress respons Show more
Tripartite motif-containing protein 21 (TRIM21), an E3 ubiquitin ligase of the TRIM superfamily, modulates critical cellular processes including ubiquitination, autophagy, and oxidative stress response. Accumulating evidence highlights its context-dependent regulatory roles in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)-the most prevalent primary liver malignancy with high mortality and limited therapeutic efficacy. This review systematically summarizes the core mechanisms by which TRIM21 orchestrates HCC progression: ① Autophagy regulation: TRIM21 modulates HCC autophagy via multiple axes, including CCR4-NOT complex (TNKS1BP1/CNOT4)-mediated substrate ubiquitination, ATG14-dependent autophagosome initiation, and RETREG1-driven reticulophagy, with context-dependent effects on tumor proliferation. ② Drug resistance: TRIM21 enhances oxaliplatin sensitivity by ubiquitinating and degrading G6PD (the rate-limiting enzyme of the pentose phosphate pathway), while its role in sorafenib resistance involves dual pathways-the MST1/YAP axis and the ApoE/cholesterol/PI3K-AKT cascade. ③ Metastasis suppression: TRIM21 restricts HCC invasion and metastasis by ubiquitinating key oncoproteins, preserving epithelial integrity and inhibiting mesenchymal transition. ④ Reactive oxygen species (ROS) balance: TRIM21 regulates oxidative stress in HCC via the SQSTM1/p62-Keap1-NRF2 axis, coordinating with HIF1α to modulate antioxidant responses and tumor cell survival. Additionally, we discuss the regulatory significance of TRIM21 in HCC associated with hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection (via HBx/DNA polymerase ubiquitination) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) (via suppressing lipogenic enzymes to reduce steatosis-driven carcinogenesis). This review provides a theoretical basis for TRIM21 as a potential diagnostic marker and therapeutic target for HCC. Show less
Endothelial cell (EC) senescence is intimately linked to the development and progression of atherosclerosis. The FGFR2 (fibroblast growth factor receptor 2) signaling is crucial in regulating the phen Show more
Endothelial cell (EC) senescence is intimately linked to the development and progression of atherosclerosis. The FGFR2 (fibroblast growth factor receptor 2) signaling is crucial in regulating the phenotype of ECs. Recent studies have revealed that cell phenotype-specific alternative splicing of FGFR2 premRNA (precursor mRNA) results in the mutually exclusive inclusion of either exon IIIb or IIIc, leading to critical differences in receptor function. This study aimed to investigate the role of FGFR2 alternative splicing in EC senescence and atherosclerosis development, and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Clinical samples and animal models were used to assess the association between FGFR2-IIIc isoform expression and EC senescence as well as atherosclerotic plaque formation. The mechanisms underlying FGFR2-IIIc-induced EC senescence were elucidated through a combination of in vivo and in vitro investigations. In addition, genetically engineered mice with endothelial-specific overexpression or knockdown of FGFR2-IIIc were utilized to investigate the impact of FGFR2-IIIc on vascular endothelial senescence and the progression of atherosclerosis. Elevated expression of the FGFR2-IIIc isoform was detected in clinical samples and animal models of aging and atherosclerosis, where it correlated with both EC senescence and atherosclerotic plaque formation. Mechanistically, the alternative splicing-mediated switch from FGFR2-IIIb to FGFR2-IIIc established an FGF2-FGFR2-IIIc autocrine feedback loop, which drove ECs toward a senescence-associated secretory phenotype via the PKC (protein kinase C) ε/STAT3 (signal transducer and activator of transcription) pathway. Senescence-inducing stimuli promoted the binding of the splicing factor hnRNP H1 (heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein H1) to exon IIIb of the This study reveals that FGFR2 splicing mediated by hnRNP H1 promotes EC senescence and atherosclerosis via an FGF2-FGFR2-IIIc autocrine loop. These findings identify FGFR2-IIIc as a potential therapeutic target for age-related atherosclerosis. Show less
White matter (WM) is a key substrate for interregional neural communication and cognitive function but the role of WM glucose metabolism in cognitive aging has been understudied. Using multimodal neur Show more
White matter (WM) is a key substrate for interregional neural communication and cognitive function but the role of WM glucose metabolism in cognitive aging has been understudied. Using multimodal neuroimaging (MRI, FDG-PET, amyloid-PET) from 3142 participants (15,287 visits) across two studies, we examined the contribution of WM to cognition and identified divergent WM signatures. Higher glucose metabolism in expected WM (EWM; corpus callosum and cingulum) was associated with better cognition, whereas increased metabolism in atypical WM (AWM; corona radiata) was linked to worse cognition, indicating a compensatory mechanism. EWM metabolism declined with aging, Alzheimer's disease (AD) progression (amyloid-β and APOE-ε4 carrier), and white matter hyperintensities, while AWM metabolism increased with aging and vascular risk but was partially weakened by AD neuropathology. Longitudinally, higher EWM and lower AWM metabolism predicted slower cognitive decline. Divergent WM metabolic patterns shed light on the dynamic role of WM in maintaining cognitive function. This study emphasizes the complementary information provided by WM metabolism for predicting future cognitive decline and identifying cognitive resilience. Show less
The pathological environment of atherosclerosis (AS) is characterized by hyperlipidemia and chronic inflammation, which cause increased heterogeneity among vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Owing Show more
The pathological environment of atherosclerosis (AS) is characterized by hyperlipidemia and chronic inflammation, which cause increased heterogeneity among vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Owing to its lipid-regulating and anti-inflammatory effects, paeoniflorin (Pae) inhibits VSMC phenotypic transformation, making it a promising candidate for AS treatment. Mouse aortic VSMCs were treated with oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) and Pae, and the effects on cell phenotype were examined. An AS model was established by feeding ApoE Pae reversed weight gain and elevated TG levels in the AS model. Oil Red O staining showed that Pae inhibited VSMC-derived foam cell formation in vitro and reduced aortic sinus plaque area, aortic wall lipid deposition, and hepatic steatosis in the AS model. Immunofluorescence staining of the aortic sinus revealed that Pae mitigated α-SMA overexpression and reversed ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) downregulation. Western blotting analysis revealed that Pae inhibited ERK1/2 and p65 phosphorylation, curbed MMP2 overexpression, and restored downregulated ABCA1 expression. Cell Counting Kit-8, 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine staining, and wound healing assays demonstrated that Pae inhibited ox-LDL-induced VSMC proliferation and migration. Additionally, Pae significantly inhibited the expression of the inflammatory factors IL-6 and MCP-1 both in vivo and in vitro. Pae may treat AS by inhibiting VSMC phenotypic transformation. Show less
Atherosclerosis (AS), a chronic inflammatory disorder initiated by vascular endothelial dysfunction (ED), is prominently triggered by hemodynamic low-shear stress (LSS). Interferon regulatory factor 6 Show more
Atherosclerosis (AS), a chronic inflammatory disorder initiated by vascular endothelial dysfunction (ED), is prominently triggered by hemodynamic low-shear stress (LSS). Interferon regulatory factor 6 (IRF6) is a transcription factor that regulates the inflammatory response following injury. In this work, the LSS-induced AS model was induced by the partial ligation of the left carotid artery in high-fat diet-fed ApoE Show less
Atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disease, is the most relevant cause of ischaemic stroke or myocardial infarction. Vascular endothelial cells (ECs) play a significant role in the development of Show more
Atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disease, is the most relevant cause of ischaemic stroke or myocardial infarction. Vascular endothelial cells (ECs) play a significant role in the development of atherosclerosis. In this chronic inflammatory environment, we aimed to investigate whether a Evolocumab (Evb) could mitigate atherosclerosis progression by inhibiting EC activation via in vivo and in vitro assays. In vivo, we investigated the ability of Evb to prevent atherosclerotic lesion formation in ApoE Show less
Sleep traits, including sleep apnoea (SA), insomnia, daytime sleepiness, and snoring, frequently co-occur with cardiometabolic diseases (CMDs), with shared genetic factors suspected to underlie these Show more
Sleep traits, including sleep apnoea (SA), insomnia, daytime sleepiness, and snoring, frequently co-occur with cardiometabolic diseases (CMDs), with shared genetic factors suspected to underlie these associations. However, the contribution of shared genetic determinants to these associations is not fully understood. We conducted a genome-wide pleiotropic association study applying sequential genetic methods to identify shared genetic variants, genes, pathways and causal associations between the four sleep traits and seven CMDs, including LDSC, high-definition likelihood analysis, colocalisation, gene-based tests, enrichment analysis and Mendelian randomisation. Next, validation of those pleiotropic variants was performed in individuals from the All of Us and MVP studies. Among 28 pairs of sleep traits and CMDs, 25 showed significant genetic correlations. Pleiotropic analysis identified 754 independent SNPs (691 unique) and 102 colocalized loci (85 unique). Among these, 47 SNPs (44 unique) were validated as significantly associated with both traits in the pairs, and notably, rs429358 (19q13.32, APOE) demonstrated pleiotropic effects across SA, insomnia and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Forty-eight annotated genes were validated by gene-based tests. Shared genes were enriched in phenotypes related to mortality and growth. Pathway analysis highlighted Cushing syndrome, hormone secretion, and cGMP-PKG, Ras and calcium signalling pathways. After adjusting for glycaemic traits and blood pressure, genetically predicted T2D increased risk of SA, sleepiness, and snoring. Conversely, SA was positively associated with heart failure and T2D independently. This study of sleep traits and CMDs reveals shared genetic determinants that may partially explain their epidemiologic association and suggests potential treatment targets. Described in Acknowledgements. Show less
Hongbin Zhang, Li Qiao, Fan Yang+5 more · 2026 · Phytomedicine : international journal of phytotherapy and phytopharmacology · Elsevier · added 2026-04-24
Elucidating effective components and mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formulas remains a critical challenge for modernization. ErShiWei RouDouKou Pills (ESWRDK), a Tibetan formula with Show more
Elucidating effective components and mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formulas remains a critical challenge for modernization. ErShiWei RouDouKou Pills (ESWRDK), a Tibetan formula with cardiovascular potential, lacks systematic exploration of its anti-atherosclerotic (AS) material basis and mechanisms. A novel six-stage cascade focused strategy integrating three-dimensional filtering mode, qualitative characterization, multi-component quantification, anti-AS efficacy, multi-lipidomics and bioactive compounds evaluation was proposed, advancing TCM research by holistic and multi-layered approach. UHPLC-MS combined with mass defect-ion intensity filtering (MD-ITF), DPIs, Nl and FBMN employed for profiling. Nine characteristic components were quantitated. A 12-week high-fat diet was fed to ApoE Firstly, the MD-ITF method and structural classification was established for complicated matrix. Secondly, 426 chemical components including 74 low-abundance were characterized. Thirdly, 9 characteristic components were quantified, and content distribution were profiled. Fourthly, ESWRDK reduced lipids, inflammation, and aortic plaques in AS mice. Fifthly, a total of 38, 23 and 48 differential biomarkers were identified predominantly linked to glycerophospholipids (GP) metabolism. WB confirmed ESWRDK downregulated hepatic PLA2, upregulated p-AMPK/AMPK and PPAR-α, and suppressed SREBP-1, orchestrating and mitigating lipid dysregulation. Finally, dehydrodiisoeugenol and agarotetrol bound PLA2, formed stable 1:1 static quenchingand inhibited PLA2 activity in vitro. A novel six-stage cascade-focused strategy was successfully established to elucidate ESWRDK's anti-AS mechanisms, offering feasible paradigm for advancing modernization of TCM. Show less
Diabetes constitutes a risk factor for atherosclerotic calcification, which is highly associated with phenotypic switching in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Protein cysteine S-nitrosylation pla Show more
Diabetes constitutes a risk factor for atherosclerotic calcification, which is highly associated with phenotypic switching in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Protein cysteine S-nitrosylation plays a crucial role in multiple cardiovascular diseases. The objective of this study is to examine whether diabetic atherosclerotic calcification is regulated by S-nitrosylation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a regulator of VSMC phenotype switching. The atherosclerotic plaque was induced by feeding Apoe In cultured VSMCs, high glucose (HG), but not high osmotic pressure, triggered nitrosative stress, reduced AMPKβ1 protein levels, increased AMPKβ1 S-nitrosylation and ubiquitination, and led to calcification. These effects were abolished by mutating AMPKβ1 at cysteine 173 or 223. Furthermore, mutations of AMPKβ1 at Cys173/223 to alanine restored AMPKβ1 protein levels and suppressed the AKT/Runx2 pathway in HG-treated VSMCs. In vivo, enforced expression of mutated AMPKβ1 (Cys173Ala plus Cys223Ala), but not overexpression of wild-type AMPKβ1, significantly prevented atherosclerotic calcification in diabetic Apoe Nitrosative stress contributes to atherosclerotic calcification in diabetes through AMPKβ S-nitrosylation. In perspective, it is advisable to consider inhibiting AMPKβ S-nitrosylation in diabetic patients with atherosclerosis. Show less