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
Late-onset Alzheimer's disease (LOAD) is highly heritable; however, its estimated incidence across populations remains unclear. We computed family-based heritability leveraging Alzheimer's Disease Seq Show more
Late-onset Alzheimer's disease (LOAD) is highly heritable; however, its estimated incidence across populations remains unclear. We computed family-based heritability leveraging Alzheimer's Disease Sequencing Project pedigrees from non-Hispanic White (404 pedigrees), non-Hispanic Black (13 pedigrees), Dominican (100 pedigrees), and Dutch isolate (10 pedigrees), with four models incorporating age, sex, apolipoproten E epsilon4 (APOE ε4), and contributing study using two methods. Heritability estimates varied by method, model, and study populations. Statistical Analysis for Genetic Epidemiology (S.A.G.E.) estimates were highest for Dutch isolate (78.3%), followed by non-Hispanic Blacks (39.1%), Dominicans (31.7%), and non-Hispanic Whites (29.1%), adjusted for age and sex. APOE adjustment reduced estimates (4.9% on average), while study adjustment primarily affected groups that included multiple studies. Sequential Oligogenic Linkage Analysis Routines (SOLAR-Eclipse) estimates were higher (45.2% to 80.2%) than S.A.G.E. (20.4% to 80.9%) but behaved in parallel, except for the Dutch isolate. LOAD heritability estimates are dependent on study population and may reflect or indicate differences in LOAD risk by population. Show less
Yiqi Huoxue Granule (YQHX), a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formulation, is extensively utilized for the treatment of atherosclerotic diseases. However, its active constituents and molecular mech Show more
Yiqi Huoxue Granule (YQHX), a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formulation, is extensively utilized for the treatment of atherosclerotic diseases. However, its active constituents and molecular mechanisms remain unclear. We utilized a systematic methodology to identify bioavailable compounds in vivo and predict and validate the principal targets and pathways responsible for their anti-atherosclerotic actions. Serum pharmacochemistry utilizing UPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap-MS was employed to identify the bioavailable compounds of YQHX. An integrated methodology combining network pharmacology and molecular docking was implemented to predict its potential targets and mechanisms against atherosclerosis, which were subsequently verified experimentally in apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE We identified 36 absorbable compounds in the serum of rats following YQHX administration, and 252 potential therapeutic targets were predicted. Protein-protein interaction analysis identified 10 hub targets, which are IL-6, TNF, EGFR, TP53, AKT, STAT3, SRC, CTNNB1, TLR4, and MMP-9. Enrichment analyses indicated that these targets are primarily involved in lipid metabolism and inflammatory responses, with significant enrichment in the PI3K-Akt and SRC signaling pathways. Molecular docking revealed strong binding affinities between the proteins EGFR, SRC, and AKT and their respective compounds. In ApoE This study systematically identified the bioactive compounds of YQHX and demonstrated its multi-target anti-atherosclerotic effect, which involved the enhancement of lipid metabolism and suppression of inflammation, mediated, at least in part, by the inhibition of the SRC/AKT signaling pathway. Show less
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA modification can govern cell fate by co- or post-transcriptionally regulating gene expression. VSMCs can undergo phenotypic switching, contributing to other cells within a Show more
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA modification can govern cell fate by co- or post-transcriptionally regulating gene expression. VSMCs can undergo phenotypic switching, contributing to other cells within atherosclerotic plaques, including foam cell- and macrophage-like cells. However, the role of VSMC m6A in atherosclerosis development remains unclear. While PPAR-α and PPAR-γ have been extensively studied in macrophages for their roles in atherosclerosis, the epigenetic regulation of these nuclear receptors under high cholesterol conditions remains poorly understood. We utilized murine and human atherosclerotic aortas, along with VSMC-specific Mettl3 and Mettl14 knockout mice, to evaluate the role of VSMC m6A in atherosclerosis. Lineage tracing was used to assess macrophage-like VSMCs. The epigenetic regulation of Ppara and Pparg transcription by Methyltransferase-like 14 (METTL14) was investigated through a variety of methods, including histological, cellular, genomic, transcriptomic, metabolomic, lipidomic, computational, and pharmacological approaches. The therapeutic potential of VSMC Mettl14 in atherosclerosis was analyzed using adeno-associated virus-mediated expression in ApoE-/- mice.We showed that the METTL3/METTL14 methyltransferase complex was reduced in both murine and human atherosclerotic VSMCs. The levels of METTL3, and consequently m6A, were regulated by METTL14, which was in turn influenced by ox-LDL. Notably, while VSMC METTL3 or m6A did not contribute to atherosclerosis, VSMC-specific Mettl14 knockout mice exhibited accelerated foam cell formation, enhanced vascular inflammation, and exacerbated atherosclerosis. These effects were driven by impaired beta-oxidation and reduced mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). Replenishment of Mettl14 significantly attenuated these adverse effects. Specifically, METTL14 regulated phenotypic switching of VSMCs and modulated the number of VSMC-derived macrophage-like cells, rather than infiltrating macrophages, within atherosclerotic plaques. Furthermore, we demonstrated that METTL14 regulates the transcription of Ppara and Pparg, master regulators of lipid metabolism that promote cholesterol efflux, by enhancing SETD1A-mediated H3K4 trimethylation in an m6A-independent manner. Activation of PPAR-γ with rosiglitazone restored impaired mitochondrial OXPHOS in Mettl14-deficient VSMCs, leading to reduced lipid accumulation. Lastly, recapitulating Mettl14 expression in atherosclerotic vessels through AAV gene therapy effectively inhibited atherosclerosis progression without compromising liver function. We have unveiled that METTL14 promotes lipid metabolism and inhibits atherogenesis through activating PPAR-α/γ expression. These experiments highlight the therapeutic potential of the endogenous METTL14/PPAR-α/γ axis for treating atherosclerotic and metabolic diseases. 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
Long noncoding RNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 5 (SNHG5) has been implicated in cell death, glucose homeostasis, and tumor progression, yet its role in atherosclerosis (AS) remains unclear. In this Show more
Long noncoding RNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 5 (SNHG5) has been implicated in cell death, glucose homeostasis, and tumor progression, yet its role in atherosclerosis (AS) remains unclear. In this study, SNHG5 expression was markedly elevated in aortic tissues of high-fat diet-fed apoE Show less
To investigate the controversial association between exogenous hormone use (EHU) and dementia, with a focus on subtype-specific risks. This prospective cohort study followed 273,069 women in the UK Bi Show more
To investigate the controversial association between exogenous hormone use (EHU) and dementia, with a focus on subtype-specific risks. This prospective cohort study followed 273,069 women in the UK Biobank over 3,802,608 person-years, identifying 4,710 dementia cases. Cox models assessed use of oral contraceptive (OC) and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in relation to all-cause dementia, Alzheimer's disease (AD), vascular dementia (VaD), and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) across treatment durations. Subgroup analyses were stratified by age, ethnicity, APOE status, education, income, and reproductive factors. A systematic review was conducted to synthesize existing evidence. In the cohort study, OC use was associated with reduced risks of all-cause dementia (HR 0.90, 95%CI 0.84-0.95), AD (HR 0.87, 95%CI 0.79-0.95), and VaD (HR 0.81, 95%CI 0.70-0.93), particularly after 4-14 years of use. HRT showed no significant association with increased dementia risk. Synthesized results largely corroborated these findings: OC use was associated with reduced risks of dementia (HR 0.90, 95%CI 0.89-0.92); and although four European studies reported a moderately increased AD risk after post-menopausal HRT use, neither cohort-based studies (HR 0.98, 95%CI 0.90-1.06) nor traditional case-control studies (OR 1.00, 95%CI 0.90-1.11) found an association between HRT and dementia. Our combined evidence does not support an increased risk of dementia associated with OC use; similarly, no clear association was observed between HRT and increased dementia risk. Clinical decisions on EHU should be individualized, balancing overall benefits against potential risks. 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
Zien Lin, Zhiye Wu, Lisha Li+9 more · 2026 · Journal of controlled release : official journal of the Controlled Release Society · Elsevier · added 2026-04-24
Atherosclerotic plaque rupture, driven by a vicious pathological cycle between endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) and chronic inflammation, represents a major therapeutic challenge in cardi Show more
Atherosclerotic plaque rupture, driven by a vicious pathological cycle between endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) and chronic inflammation, represents a major therapeutic challenge in cardiovascular disease. Current clinical strategies, including statins and antiplatelet agents, fail to disrupt the EndMT-inflammation axis, while conventional TGF-β pathway inhibitors-critical for EndMT regulation-exhibit narrow therapeutic windows and systemic toxicity owing to the pleiotropic nature of TGF-β signaling. Here, we reported VRBPC, a VCAM-1-targeting, reactive oxygen species (ROS)-responsive baicalin-peptide conjugate that undergoes in situ self-assembly within atherosclerotic plaques to form a "molecular latch" that breaks the EndMT-inflammation loop. Upon VCAM-1-mediated endocytosis into activated endothelial cells, VRBPC responds to elevated ROS levels in the plaque microenvironment, triggering localized self-assembly that enhances baicalin retention and promotes its competitive binding to HSP90-a critical chaperone for TGF-β receptor stabilization. This mechanism inhibits Smad2/3 phosphorylation, reverses EndMT, and simultaneously suppresses inflammatory responses in macrophages. In vitro, VRBPC effectively restored endothelial phenotype, reduced aberrant migration, and diminished foam cell formation alongside pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion. In ApoE Show less
Atherosclerosis is respectively correlated with interleukin-6/interleukin-6 receptor (IL6/IL6R) mediated inflammation signaling and macrophages ferroptosis. Nonetheless, the underlying mechanism of IL Show more
Atherosclerosis is respectively correlated with interleukin-6/interleukin-6 receptor (IL6/IL6R) mediated inflammation signaling and macrophages ferroptosis. Nonetheless, the underlying mechanism of IL6/IL6R signaling mediated macrophages ferroptosis in atherosclerosis remains unknown. This study aims to investigate whether IL6/IL6R signaling mediated macrophages ferroptosis through mitochondrial fragmentation and mitophagy impairment. Two human atherosclerotic transcriptomic datasets were used to conduct bioinformatic analysis. In vitro, counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assays, flow cytometry, immunofluorescence staining, malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) assay kits were employed to evaluate reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and macrophages ferroptosis. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), laser confocal microscope and seahorse experiments were used to evaluate changes of mitochondrial morphology and mitochondrial function. Western blotting (WB) was used to quantify key markers of mitophagy and ferroptosis. In vivo, histological stainings and WB were used to determine the effects of IL6R deficiency on atherosclerosis, mitophagy and ferroptosis. Integrated bioinformatic analysis revealed that the IL6 expression could stratify early and advanced plaques. IL6 induced macrophages ferroptosis by increasing ROS and MDA levels, depleting GSH level, promoting lipid peroxidation and suppressing glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) expression. Dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1) mediated excessive mitochondrial fragmentation in IL6-induced macrophages, resulting in more shortened mitochondria, impaired oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and ROS accumulation. Activation of mitophagy, the process of mitochondrial fragmentation clearance, could increase GPX4 expression and attenuate the lipid peroxidation level in IL6 induced macrophages. Aggravation of ferroptosis further compromised mitophagy-related proteins expression. Targeting IL6R signaling attenuated atherosclerotic burden in ApoE [Image: see text] The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10753-025-02359-5. 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
Lecanemab, an anti-amyloid beta (Aβ) protofibril antibody, was introduced in China in 2024, but its real-world performance remains unknown. In this prospective, multicenter study across 21 sites, 261 Show more
Lecanemab, an anti-amyloid beta (Aβ) protofibril antibody, was introduced in China in 2024, but its real-world performance remains unknown. In this prospective, multicenter study across 21 sites, 261 Alzheimer's disease patients (mild cognitive impairment to moderate dementia) received biweekly lecanemab (10 mg/kg). A matched Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) cohort served as comparator. Cognitive tests, plasma biomarkers, and optional amyloid/tau positron emission tomography (PET) were assessed over 6 months. Lecanemab significantly attenuated cognitive decline versus ADNI. Plasma Aβ42, Aβ40, phosphorylated tau 217 (p‑tau217), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and ratios showed robust changes; a p‑tau217 reduction correlated with amyloid PET clearance (mean -22.1 Centiloid; 29.2% turned amyloid-negative). Apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 non-carriers showed greater improvements. Infusion reactions occurred in 11.1% and amyloid-related imaging abnormalities in 9.2% (1.6% symptomatic), with no stage-related safety differences. Lecanemab was effective and well tolerated in real-world Chinese patients. Plasma p‑tau217 may serve as a sensitive, minimally invasive treatment-response biomarker. Show less
Atherosclerosis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease driven significantly by metabolic reprogramming (MR). However, the core MR-related genes and their specific functions in AS remain incompletely u Show more
Atherosclerosis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease driven significantly by metabolic reprogramming (MR). However, the core MR-related genes and their specific functions in AS remain incompletely understood, thus creating an urgent need for reliable diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers. Two AS-related microarray datasets (GSE100927 and GSE28829) were integrated and normalized. Differential expression analysis identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs), which were intersected with an MR-related gene set to obtain MR-related DEGs (MRDEGs). Functional enrichment analyses-including Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses-were conducted. Subsequently, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was combined with multiple machine learning algorithms to screen for hub genes. These candidate genes were further validated using an external dataset (GSE43292) and evaluated via receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Additionally, a multi-gene diagnostic model was constructed and assessed using both nomogram and SHAP analysis. Single-gene Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) elucidated the biological functions of core genes. Immune infiltration and single-cell analyses investigated microenvironment remodeling. Moreover, transcription factor (TF) prediction via hTFtarget, integrated with transcriptome sequencing of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), identify upstream regulators. Finally, Experimental validation was performed in ApoE We identified 57 MRDEGs and selected four core genes-LYN, FABP5, MMP9, and ANPEP-which demonstrated high diagnostic value. The multi-gene model showed strong clinical predictive performance. GSEA further revealed significant involvement of these genes in immune-inflammatory pathways. Immune infiltration and single-cell analyses confirmed substantial immune microenvironment remodeling and altered cell-cell communication. EGR1 was identified as a key upstream transcription factor. Ultimately, Experimental validation in ApoE This study identifies LYN, FABP5, MMP9, and ANPEP as core MR-related genes in AS, clarifies their roles in immune microenvironment regulation, and confirms their value as diagnostic biomarkers, thereby providing new insights for precise diagnosis and targeted therapy of AS. Show less
Atherosclerosis is fundamentally a pathology of unresolved inflammation perpetuated by the collapse of Regulatory T cell (Treg)-mediated tolerance. Emerging evidence indicates that Treg functional int Show more
Atherosclerosis is fundamentally a pathology of unresolved inflammation perpetuated by the collapse of Regulatory T cell (Treg)-mediated tolerance. Emerging evidence indicates that Treg functional integrity is intrinsically dictated by mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation (FAO), a metabolic checkpoint often compromised under systemic metabolic stress. Current lipid-lowering therapies, such as statins, often fall short in correcting this maladaptive immunometabolic defect and may introduce collateral metabolic perturbations. This study aimed to elucidate the immunometabolic therapeutic mechanism of Dingxin Recipe III (DXR III) in ameliorating atherosclerosis. We employed an integrated systems pharmacology strategy-combining serum pharmacochemistry, multi-omics profiling, and extensive high-dimensional flow cytometry-to elucidate the therapeutic mechanism of DXR III, a traditional Chinese herbal formula in an in vivo study. ApoE DXR III treatment effectively attenuating atherosclerotic progression. Serum pharmacochemistry identified 254 prototypical absorbed constituents, including Tanshinone I (a potential Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma agonist), as bioactive candidates. Multi-omics analysis revealed that DXR III modulated the metabolic environment, coinciding with restored FAO flux. This shift was associated with a favorable metabolic niche characterized by increased FAO substrates, which correlated with the rescue of Treg differentiation and phenotypic stability. Specifically, DXR III facilitated the redistribution of Tregs from the spleen to plaque sites and significantly inhibited their trans-differentiation into Th1-like or Th17-like phenotypes. Conversely, Simvastatin treatment, despite lowering lipids, resulted in peripheral Th17 accumulation and failed to alleviate hyperglycemia. In contrast, DXR III maintained Th17 homeostasis-abolishing the pathogenic non-classical Th17 subset-and exerted dual-regulatory effects on both lipid and glucose metabolism. DXR III ameliorates atherosclerosis, a process closely associated with the modulation of the FAO metabolic checkpoint to correct the immune imbalance driving plaque progression. By rescuing the Treg differentiation, functional integrity, and phenotypic fidelity while avoiding the immunological trade-offs associated with Th1/Th17, DXR III represents a promising candidate for comprehensive cardiovascular protection. Show less
Francis E Cambronero, Panpan Zhang, W Hudson Robb+8 more · 2026 · Journal of cerebral blood flow and metabolism : official journal of the International Society of Cerebral Blood Flow and Metabolism · SAGE Publications · added 2026-04-24
We investigate whether common circle of Willis (CoW) variants relate to cerebral blood flow (CBF) characteristics among aging adults. Vanderbilt Memory and Aging Project participants free of clinical Show more
We investigate whether common circle of Willis (CoW) variants relate to cerebral blood flow (CBF) characteristics among aging adults. Vanderbilt Memory and Aging Project participants free of clinical stroke ( Show less
Ye-Qin Tao, Hui Liu, Ming-Guo Gao+5 more · 2026 · Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica · added 2026-04-24
Based on the TCM theory of "phlegm-stasis intermingling", this study aims to investigate the mechanism of Danzha Tongmai Pills(DZTMW) in treating atherosclerosis(AS), focusing on elucidating Show more
Based on the TCM theory of "phlegm-stasis intermingling", this study aims to investigate the mechanism of Danzha Tongmai Pills(DZTMW) in treating atherosclerosis(AS), focusing on elucidating its in vivo active components, metabolic regulatory effects in serum, hepatoprotective effects, and anti-inflammatory efficacy. An AS model was established in apolipoprotein E knockout(ApoE~(-/-)) mice, which were divided into a normal group, an model group, low/medium/high-dose DZTMW groups, and an atorvastatin positive control group. The normal group was fed a standard diet, while the other groups were fed a high-fat diet to induce AS lesions. During the intervention phase, the groups were administered corresponding drugs or an equal volume of solvent by gavage. A series of tests were conducted after continuous intervention. Ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry(UPLC-Q-TOF-MS) was used to identify the blood-entering components of DZTMW, and liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry(LC-HRMS) was employed for non-targeted serum metabolomics analysis. Pearson correlation analysis was used to analyze the correlation between blood-entering components and differential metabolites. Levels of serum lipid [total cholesterol(TC), triglycerides(TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol(HDL-C), and free fatty acids(FFA)] and liver function markers [alanine aminotransferase(ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase(AST)] were measured. Liver histopathology and lipid deposition were assessed by HE and oil red O staining, and serum levels of inflammatory factors [lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2(LP-PLA2), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein(hs-CRP), interleukin-6(IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha(TNF-α), and interleukin-1 beta(IL-1β)] were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA). The results showed that 23 blood-entering components were identified from DZTMW, including three prototype compounds, 20 metabolites, and 142 differential metabolites of serum. Core blood-entering components such as hydroxyl asiatic acid M1 and neocryptotanshinone metabolite were highly/extremely correlated with differential metabolites like 5-hydroxytryptamine, lysophosphatidylcholine(P-18:1/0:0) and sphingomyelin(d18:1/15:0). DZTMW administration at various doses significantly reduced the serum levels of TC, TG, LDL-C, and FFA(P<0.01), increased the HDL-C level(P<0.01), decreased ALT and AST activities(P<0.05, P<0.01), alleviated hepatocyte steatosis and lipid droplet deposition, and down-regulated the expression of inflammatory factors in a dose-dependent manner(P<0.01). The effects of the high-dose DZTMW group were comparable to those of the atorvastatin group. In summary, DZTMW can effectively inhibit the progression of AS in ApoE~(-/-) mice. Its mechanism may involve the regulation of hepatic lipid metabolism by its in vivo active components to ameliorate the "phlegm-turbidity" pathology and reduce liver injury, and the inhibition of systemic inflammation to alleviate the "blood stasis" process. The study can provide a modern biological basis for the theory of "phlegm-stasis intermingling". Show less
Diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) are a severe complication of diabetes. Although dysregulated M2 macrophage polarization is recognized as a key driver of chronic inflammation in DFU, the molecular checkpoin Show more
Diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) are a severe complication of diabetes. Although dysregulated M2 macrophage polarization is recognized as a key driver of chronic inflammation in DFU, the molecular checkpoints that can be therapeutically targeted to restore M2 bias remain poorly defined. Here, we aimed to determine whether the RNA-binding protein TAF15 acts as a post-transcriptional stabilizer of the M2-promoting CEBPB/APOE/PTX3 axis, thereby accelerating DFU healing. First, we confirmed that APOE positively regulates PTX3, which supports M2 polarization and the proliferation and migration of HDF. CEBPB transcriptionally activated APOE and promoted M2 macrophage polarization. TAF15 stabilized CEBPB mRNA and affected HDF cell proliferation and migration by promoting M2 macrophage polarization. Additionally, TAF15 overexpression partially counteracted the disruption of M2 macrophage polarization caused by APOE silencing and facilitated DFU wound healing. Collectively, our findings establish TAF15-driven stabilization of CEBPB mRNA as a target point that sequentially activates APOE/PTX3 signaling to enforce M2 polarization and accelerate DFU closure. This study provides a preclinical rationale for the development of TAF15-targeted oligonucleotides or small-molecule strategies to reprogram wound macrophages and improve DFU outcomes in patients with diabetes. Show less
Aortic valve calcification increases leaflet stiffness and contributes to the development of calcific aortic valve disease. The molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying calcification remain unclea Show more
Aortic valve calcification increases leaflet stiffness and contributes to the development of calcific aortic valve disease. The molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying calcification remain unclear. Here, we aimed to investigate the role of PRMT3 (protein arginine methyltransferase 3) in valvular calcification and calcific aortic valve disease progression. Both aortic valve leaflets and valvular interstitial cells from patients were used to evaluate the expression pattern and investigate the underlying mechanism of PRMT3 in calcific aortic valve disease pathogenesis. High-cholesterol diet-fed Apoe (apolipoprotein E)-deficient ( We found that PRMT3 expression was significantly upregulated during aortic valve calcification. RUNX2 (runt-related transcription factor 2) recruited P300 to promote PRMT3 expression through histone H3 lysine 27 acetylation. Moreover, We identify a previously unrecognized posttranslational mechanism regulating PCSK9 stability in valve interstitial cells during calcific aortic valve disease and establish a link between PRMT3-mediated arginine methylation and valve-specific lipid-osteogenic coupling. Show less
Paeonol (Pae), a primary bioactive constituent of the root of Paeonia suffruticosa Andrews, shows therapeutic potential for postmenopausal hyperlipidemia. Ovariectomized ApoE
Tc17 cells (IL-17 The percentage of Tc17 cells, monocytes and IL-1β Higher populations of Tc17 cells, IL-1β The present results show that suppressing IL-1β expression by preventing CD80 [Figure: see t Show more
Tc17 cells (IL-17 The percentage of Tc17 cells, monocytes and IL-1β Higher populations of Tc17 cells, IL-1β The present results show that suppressing IL-1β expression by preventing CD80 [Figure: see text] The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12964-026-02785-4. Show less
Alzheimer disease (AD) pathology may begin decades before symptoms. Genetic factors, such as APOE ε4 carrier status and polygenic risk scores (PRS), influence AD risk, but their roles in cognitive dec Show more
Alzheimer disease (AD) pathology may begin decades before symptoms. Genetic factors, such as APOE ε4 carrier status and polygenic risk scores (PRS), influence AD risk, but their roles in cognitive decline among Asian populations remain unclear. To evaluate whether APOE ε4 carrier status and a non-APOE polygenic risk score (PRS_ADnapoe) are associated with age-related cognitive decline in community-dwelling older adults in Taiwan. This prospective cohort study used data from 2 assessment waves of the Healthy Aging Longitudinal Study in Taiwan, spanning 2009 to 2019. Participants were aged 55 years and older and had both genetic data and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores. Data analyses were conducted from August to December 2025. APOE ε4 carrier status (noncarrier, heterozygote, homozygote) and PRS_ADnapoe score, derived from genome-wide association summary statistics excluding APOE variants. The primary outcome was change in MMSE scores, which were assessed cross-sectionally and longitudinally, modeled with mixed-effects regression accounting for age-related effects and covariates including sex, education, smoking, and population structure. Among 4392 participants (mean [SD] age, 68.2 [7.8] years; 2359 [53.7%] women), 723 (16.5%) were APOE ε4 heterozygotes and 33 (0.8%) were APOE ε4 homozygotes. Over a mean (SD) follow-up of 6.3 (0.9) years, the mean (SD) annual MMSE decline was -0.2 (0.5). APOE ε4 carriage was associated with a significantly steeper quadratic age-associated decline in MMSE scores compared with noncarriers (estimate, -0.005; SE, 0.001; P = .001). This association was strongest among homozygotes (estimate, -0.017; SE, 0.008; P = .03), with MMSE trajectories diverging after approximately age 70 years. In contrast, PRS_ADnapoe scores were not associated with MMSE decline. Sensitivity analyses restricted to participants with 2-wave data and adjusted with inverse probability of censoring weighting confirmed these findings. In this cohort study of middle-aged and older adults in Taiwan, APOE ε4 carriage, particularly homozygosity, was associated with accelerated age-related cognitive decline detectable after age 70 years, whereas non-APOE polygenic risk was not associated with cognitive decline over the current follow-up. These results highlight the potential utility of early genetic risk awareness and support consideration of targeted preventive strategies for APOE ε4 carriers. Show less
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is increasingly recognized as a disorder of innate immune dysregulation within the central nervous system. The triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2 (TREM2), a micr Show more
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is increasingly recognized as a disorder of innate immune dysregulation within the central nervous system. The triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2 (TREM2), a microglial immunoreceptor, has emerged as a pivotal genetic risk factor for late-onset AD, underscoring the critical role of neuroimmune interactions in disease pathogenesis. This review synthesizes recent advances concerning TREM2's modulation of core microglial functions, including phagocytosis, inflammatory signaling, cellular metabolism, and survival, processes that are essential for responding to amyloid-β plaques and neuronal damage. We highlight the TREM2-APOE pathway as a central mechanism driving the disease-associated microglia (DAM) phenotype and examine how loss-of-function mutations such as Show less
Growing evidence suggests that both ApoE genotype and metabolic disturbances including insulin resistance (IR) and obesity constitute risk factors for Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, large-scale st Show more
Growing evidence suggests that both ApoE genotype and metabolic disturbances including insulin resistance (IR) and obesity constitute risk factors for Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, large-scale studies investigating whether ApoE genotype interacts with metabolic abnormalities to indirectly impair cognitive function in AD remain scarce. This cross-sectional study aimed to explore the associations between ApoE genotype, metabolic disturbances [IR assessed by triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index and body mass index (BMI)], and cognitive function in AD patients. We analyzed 1,162 clinically diagnosed probable AD patients from the Cognitive Impairment Clinic at Tianjin Huanhu Hospital. Participants were categorized by ApoE ε4 carrier status. Metabolic parameters were evaluated using the TyG index and BMI. Mediation effect models were employed to assess the relationships between ApoE genotype, metabolic indices, and cognitive function. ApoE ε4 carriers exhibited significantly lower BMI ( ApoE ε4 carriers demonstrate a distinct metabolic profile characterized by lower BMI and elevated TyG index, associated with poorer cognitive performance. Our findings suggest that ApoE ε4 may indirectly influence AD cognition through metabolic pathways, highlighting early interventions targeting ApoE-related metabolic dysregulation as potential strategies to delay AD progression. Show less
Moutan Cortex, a traditional Chinese medicine, has been used to treat cardiovascular diseases. Paeonol (Pae), a key bioactive compound, is responsible for its anti-atherosclerotic effects. Although CD Show more
Moutan Cortex, a traditional Chinese medicine, has been used to treat cardiovascular diseases. Paeonol (Pae), a key bioactive compound, is responsible for its anti-atherosclerotic effects. Although CD8 We investigated whether Pae inhibits atherosclerosis by targeting the spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK)/nuclear factor of activated T-cells c1 (NFATc1) pathway, thereby reducing CD8 High-fat diet-fed apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE Pae attenuated plaque formation and T-cell activation in ApoE SYK in CD8 Show less
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVDs) remain the primary cause of morbidity and mortality. Macrophages are involved in the progression and regression of atherosclerosis, and macrophage amin Show more
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVDs) remain the primary cause of morbidity and mortality. Macrophages are involved in the progression and regression of atherosclerosis, and macrophage amino acid metabolism is important during this process. Here, we identified that the expression of cystine/glutamate antiporter Slc7a11 was upregulated by oxidized low-density lipoprotein, and specifically enhanced in the macrophages of atherosclerotic plaques. Macrophage-specific Show less
Atherosclerotic macrophages predominantly exhibit a pro-inflammatory phenotype, driving chronic inflammatory and accelerating atherosclerotic progression. Interferon regulatory factor 5 (IRF5) is high Show more
Atherosclerotic macrophages predominantly exhibit a pro-inflammatory phenotype, driving chronic inflammatory and accelerating atherosclerotic progression. Interferon regulatory factor 5 (IRF5) is highly expressed in lesional macrophages within advanced atherosclerotic plaques, where it promotes the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines. However, current approaches lack an effective therapeutic strategy to specifically silence this gene in lesional macrophages for atherosclerosis treatment. This study aims to develop and evaluate a dual-targeted, siRNA-based nanotherapeutic platform that selectively acts on atherosclerosis-promoting genes in plaque macrophages, offering a potential strategy for treating atherosclerosis by reprogramming lesional macrophages. Here we designed and developed dual-targeted liposome-based nano-immunotherapeutics encapsulating small interfering RNA (siRNA) against IRF5 (siIRF5) to reprogram macrophage phenotypes within advanced plaques. In high-fat diet-fed Show less
Accumulating evidence suggested that bile acids play a significant role in modulating metabolic and inflammatory diseases. In this study, we investigated the roles of the farnesoid X receptor (FXR) an Show more
Accumulating evidence suggested that bile acids play a significant role in modulating metabolic and inflammatory diseases. In this study, we investigated the roles of the farnesoid X receptor (FXR) and its endogenous antagonist hyodeoxycholic acid (HDCA) in the development of atherosclerosis (AS). We found that serum HDCA was significantly reduced in patients with AS, and systemic HDCA therapy attenuated plaque burden in vivo. Adoptive transfer of HDCA-treated Foxp3+ Tregs into ApoE-deficient recipients reduced lesion growth, whereas FXR-deficient Tregs failed to confer benefit. HDCA enhanced Treg migration and accumulation within plaques and reprogrammed Treg metabolism by antagonizing FXR and modulating PD-1/mTORC1 signaling. This shift relieved CPT1a-driven fatty acid oxidation bias, increased glycolysis and ATP production, and improved migratory capacity and effector function. We further identify ZNF671 as a transcriptional inhibitor of Treg migration that is mitigated by HDCA-dependent metabolic switching. Collectively, HDCA reduced FXR-mediated metabolic constraints while activating glycolytic and migratory programs in Tregs, thereby improving lipid handling and immune regulation within the plaque microenvironment. These findings position the HDCA-FXR-PD-1/mTORC1 axis as a novel immunometabolic target for AS. Show less
This study aims to systematically investigate the multi-target mechanisms of cobalamin in the treatment of ischemic stroke using network pharmacology and molecular docking approaches. We screened data Show more
This study aims to systematically investigate the multi-target mechanisms of cobalamin in the treatment of ischemic stroke using network pharmacology and molecular docking approaches. We screened databases to identify the targets of cobalamin and performed intersected with with ischemic stroke-related targets to construct a “drug-target-disease” interaction network. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses were conducted to identify key biological processes and signaling pathways. Additionally, molecular docking simulations were performed to assess the binding affinity between cobalamin and hub proteins. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were used to assess the stability of the protein–ligand complexes over a 500 ns simulation period. Additionally, ADME (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion) and blood–brain barrier (BBB) permeability predictions were made using ADMETlab 3.0 and admetSAR 3.0. A total of 95 therapeutic targets of cobalamin for ischemic stroke were identified. Network analysis and molecular docking highlighted eight core targets—ALB, TIMP1, PLG, FN1, AGT, SERPINE1, APOE, and SPP1—with high binding affinities to cobalamin. GO analysis suggested that cobalamin regulates inflammatory responses, post-translational modifications, complement binding, and lipoprotein particle binding. KEGG analysis identified complement and coagulation cascades, the PI3K/AKT pathway, and inflammation-related signaling as central to its therapeutic effects. Molecular docking showed strong binding to ALB and TIMP1, which was further confirmed by MD simulations, with minimal conformational changes. The PLG-cobalamin complex exhibited more fluctuations. ADME analysis revealed low passive permeability, particularly across the blood–brain barrier, but moderate distribution and high plasma protein binding. This study provides evidence that cobalamin may offer neuroprotective effects in ischemic stroke by interacting with key target proteins involved in coagulation, inflammation, and lipid metabolism. The findings highlight the potential of cobalamin as a therapeutic agent, although its limited ability to cross the blood–brain barrier may restrict its oral use. Further experimental validation and development of suitable delivery methods are needed to fully realize cobalamin’s potential in stroke therapy. The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1038/s41598-026-41564-6. Show less