👤 Woo-Jin Kim

Stem cell-derived brain-like endothelial cells to interrogate

Henry D Mauser, Taryn E Keyzer, Jessica M Surma +8 more · 2025 · Virulence · Taylor & Francis · added 2026-04-24

Henry D Mauser, Taryn E Keyzer, Jessica M Surma, Natalie G Alexander, William D Cutts, Sarah F Hathcock, Kimberly H Lackey, Daryl W Lam, Justin A Thornton, Nadine Vollmuth, Brandon J Kim Show less

no PDF DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2025.2564281

Maternal Exposure to Diesel Exhaust Particles (DEPs) During Pregnancy and Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes: Focusing on the Effect of Particulate Matter on Trophoblast, Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition.

Hyewon Hur, Hayan Kwon, Yun Ji Jung +7 more · 2025 · Cells · MDPI · added 2026-04-24

Hyewon Hur, Hayan Kwon, Yun Ji Jung, Euna Choi, Joonggyeong Shin, Subin Jo, Yeji Lee, Min-A Kim, Yong-Sun Maeng, Ja-Young Kwon Show less

During pregnancy, exposure to fine particulate matter (PM

no PDF DOI: 10.3390/cells14171317

Therapeutic Targeting in Ovarian Cancer: Nano-Enhanced CRISPR/Cas9 Gene Editing and Drug Combination Therapy.

Hong-Kook Kim, Heedon Cheong, Moo-Yeon Kim +1 more · 2025 · International journal of nanomedicine · added 2026-04-24

Hong-Kook Kim, Heedon Cheong, Moo-Yeon Kim, Hyo-Eon Jin Show less

Ovarian cancer is the third most common gynecological cancer worldwide. Due to the high recurrence rate of advanced-stage ovarian cancer, often resulting from drug-resistant and refractory disease, va Show more

Ovarian cancer is the third most common gynecological cancer worldwide. Due to the high recurrence rate of advanced-stage ovarian cancer, often resulting from drug-resistant and refractory disease, various treatment strategies are under investigation. Genome editing of therapeutic target genes holds promise in enhancing cancer treatment efficacy by elucidating gene functions and mechanisms involved in cancer progression. The CRISPR/Cas9 system, in particular, shows great potential in ovarian cancer gene therapy and drug development. Targeting therapeutic genes such as BRCA1/2, P53, Snai1 etc, could improve the therapeutic strategy in ovarian cancer. CRISPR/Cas9 is a powerful gene-editing tool that there are many on-going clinical trials to treat various diseases including cancer. Nano-based delivery systems for CRISPR/Cas9 offer further therapeutic benefits, leveraging the unique properties of nanoparticles to improve delivery efficiency. Nano-based delivery systems could enhance the stability of CRISPR/Cas9 delivery formats (such as plasmid, mRNA, etc) and improve the delivery precision of delivery to target tumors. Additionally, combining CRISPR/Cas9 with targeted drug treatments, especially those aimed at genes associated with drug resistance, may significantly improve therapeutic outcomes in ovarian cancer. In this review, we discuss therapeutic target genes and their mechanisms in ovarian cancer, advances in nano-based CRISPR/Cas9 delivery, and the therapeutic potential of combining CRISPR/Cas9 with drug treatments for ovarian cancer. Show less

no PDF DOI: 10.2147/IJN.S507688

MSK1 promotes colorectal cancer metastasis by increasing Snail protein stability through USP5-mediated Snail deubiquitination.

Keun-Seok Hong, Ki-Jun Ryu, Hyemin Kim +8 more · 2025 · Experimental & molecular medicine · Nature · added 2026-04-24

Keun-Seok Hong, Ki-Jun Ryu, Hyemin Kim, Minju Kim, Seung-Ho Park, Taeyoung Kim, Jung Wook Yang, Cheol Hwangbo, Kwang Dong Kim, Young-Jun Park, Jiyun Yoo Show less

Mitogen- and stress-activated protein kinase 1 (MSK1), a Ser/Thr kinase, phosphorylates nuclear proteins to increase their stability and DNA-binding affinity. Despite the role of MSK1 in promoting can Show more

Mitogen- and stress-activated protein kinase 1 (MSK1), a Ser/Thr kinase, phosphorylates nuclear proteins to increase their stability and DNA-binding affinity. Despite the role of MSK1 in promoting cancer progression in colorectal cancer (CRC), the precise molecular mechanisms remain unelucidated. Here we show that MSK1 expression induces the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process and increases CRC cell metastasis. Furthermore, we discovered that MSK1 interacts with Snail, a key EMT regulator, and increases its stability by inhibiting ubiquitin-mediated proteasomal degradation. Importantly, MSK1 increased Snail protein stability by promoting deubiquitination rather than inhibiting its ubiquitination. Finally, we identified USP5 as an essential deubiquitinase that binds to Snail protein phosphorylated by MSK1. Based on the experimental data, in CRC, MSK1-Snail-USP5 axis can promote EMT and metastasis of CRC. Together, our findings provide potential biomarkers and novel therapeutic targets for further research in CRC. Show less

no PDF DOI: 10.1038/s12276-025-01433-0

Spliceosome component TCERG1 regulates the aggressiveness of somatotroph adenoma.

Kyungwon Kim, Hye Ju Shin, Sang-Cheol Park +7 more · 2025 · Journal of endocrinological investigation · Springer · added 2026-04-24

Kyungwon Kim, Hye Ju Shin, Sang-Cheol Park, Youngsook Kim, Min-Ho Lee, Ju Hyung Moon, Eui Hyun Kim, Eun Jig Lee, Chan Woo Kang, Cheol Ryong Ku Show less

We aimed to identify differentially expressed spliceosome components in growth hormone (GH)-secreting pituitary tumors and investigate their roles in pathogenesis. We performed transcriptome analysis Show more

We aimed to identify differentially expressed spliceosome components in growth hormone (GH)-secreting pituitary tumors and investigate their roles in pathogenesis. We performed transcriptome analysis of 20 somatotroph adenomas and 6 normal pituitary tissues to select dysregulated spliceosome components. Clinical characteristics were analyzed based on gene expression in 64 patients with acromegaly. Proliferation, invasion, and hormonal activity of GH secreting pituitary adenoma cells were investigated. TCERG1 expression was significantly higher in somatotroph adenomas than in normal pituitaries (log2 fold change 0.59, adjusted P = 0.0002 Spliceosome machinery provide novel insights into the pathogenesis of GH-secreting pituitary tumor and highlight the potential role of TCERG1 as a biomarker for tumor aggressiveness. Show less

no PDF DOI: 10.1007/s40618-024-02447-7

Admixture mapping identifies complex trait associations with local ancestry in the

Wilfredo G Gonzalez Rivera, Youwen Liu, Tara Mirmira +6 more · 2025 · medRxiv : the preprint server for health sciences · added 2026-04-24

Wilfredo G Gonzalez Rivera, Youwen Liu, Tara Mirmira, Nichole Ma, Jihoon Kim, Matteo D' Antonio, Umber Dube, Kelly A Frazer, Melissa Gymrek Show less

Genetic studies have largely focused on homogeneous populations, limiting our understanding of the genetic architecture of complex traits in admixed individuals. The advent of diverse biobanks like th Show more

Genetic studies have largely focused on homogeneous populations, limiting our understanding of the genetic architecture of complex traits in admixed individuals. The advent of diverse biobanks like the Show less

no PDF DOI: 10.64898/2025.12.29.25343152

ZPR1

Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) alleviates ferroptosis in aging-induced brain damage through the Epac/Rap1 signaling pathway.

Jiwon Ko, Soyoung Jang, Soyeon Jang +7 more · 2024 · BMB reports · added 2026-04-24

Jiwon Ko, Soyoung Jang, Soyeon Jang, Song Park, Junkoo Yi, Dong Kyu Choi, Seonggon Kim, Myoung Ok Kim, Su-Geun Lim, Zae Young Ryoo Show less

Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), a 42-aminoacid hormone, exerts multifaceted effects in physiology, most notably in metabolism, obesity, and inflammation. Its significance extends t Show more

Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), a 42-aminoacid hormone, exerts multifaceted effects in physiology, most notably in metabolism, obesity, and inflammation. Its significance extends to neuroprotection, promoting neuronal proliferation, maintaining physiological homeostasis, and inhibiting cell death, all of which play a crucial role in the context of neurodegenerative diseases. Through intricate signaling pathways involving its cognate receptor (GIPR), a member of the G protein-coupled receptors, GIP maintains cellular homeostasis and regulates a defense system against ferroptosis, an essential process in aging. Our study, utilizing GIP-overexpressing mice and in vitro cell model, elucidates the pivotal role of GIP in preserving neuronal integrity and combating age-related damage, primarily through the Epac/Rap1 pathway. These findings shed light on the potential of GIP as a therapeutic target for the pathogenesis of ferroptosis in neurodegenerative diseases and aging. [BMB Reports 2024; 57(9): 417-423]. Show less

📄 PDF DOI: 10.5483/BMBRep.2024-0067

GIPR

Discovery of CRN04894: A Novel Potent Selective MC2R Antagonist.

Sun Hee Kim, Sangdon Han, Jian Zhao +10 more · 2024 · ACS medicinal chemistry letters · ACS Publications · added 2026-04-24

Sun Hee Kim, Sangdon Han, Jian Zhao, Shimiao Wang, Ana Karin Kusnetzow, Greg Reinhart, Melissa A Fowler, Stacy Markison, Michael Johns, Rosa Luo, R Scott Struthers, Yunfei Zhu, Stephen F Betz Show less

A novel class of nonpeptide melanocortin type 2 receptor (MC2R) antagonists was discovered through modification of known nonpeptide MC4R ligands. Structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies led to t Show more

A novel class of nonpeptide melanocortin type 2 receptor (MC2R) antagonists was discovered through modification of known nonpeptide MC4R ligands. Structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies led to the discovery of Show less

no PDF DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.3c00514

MC4R

Stress integration by an ascending adrenergic-melanocortin circuit.

Connor Laule, Nilufer Sayar-Atasoy, Iltan Aklan +4 more · 2024 · Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology · Nature · added 2026-04-24

Connor Laule, Nilufer Sayar-Atasoy, Iltan Aklan, Hyojin Kim, Tayfun Ates, Debbie Davis, Deniz Atasoy Show less

Stress is thought to be an important contributing factor for eating disorders; however, neural substrates underlying the complex relationship between stress and appetite are not fully understood. Usin Show more

Stress is thought to be an important contributing factor for eating disorders; however, neural substrates underlying the complex relationship between stress and appetite are not fully understood. Using in vivo recordings from awake behaving mice, we show that various acute stressors activate catecholaminergic nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS Show less

no PDF DOI: 10.1038/s41386-024-01810-9

MC4R

Bidirectional relationship between olfaction and Parkinson's disease.

Jonggeol Jeffrey Kim, Sara Bandres-Ciga, Karl Heilbron +3 more · 2024 · NPJ Parkinson's disease · Nature · added 2026-04-24

Jonggeol Jeffrey Kim, Sara Bandres-Ciga, Karl Heilbron, 23andMe Research Team, Cornelis Blauwendraat, Alastair J Noyce Show less

Hyposmia (decreased smell function) is a common early symptom of Parkinson's disease (PD). The shared genetic architecture between hyposmia and PD is unknown. We leveraged genome-wide association stud Show more

Hyposmia (decreased smell function) is a common early symptom of Parkinson's disease (PD). The shared genetic architecture between hyposmia and PD is unknown. We leveraged genome-wide association study (GWAS) results for self-assessment of 'ability to smell' and PD diagnosis to determine shared genetic architecture between the two traits. Linkage disequilibrium score (LDSC) regression found that the sense of smell negatively correlated at a genome-wide level with PD. Local Analysis of [co]Variant Association (LAVA) found negative correlations in four genetic loci near GBA1, ANAPC4, SNCA, and MAPT, indicating shared genetic liability only within a subset of prominent PD risk genes. Using Mendelian randomization, we found evidence for a strong causal relationship between PD and liability towards poorer sense of smell, but weaker evidence for the reverse direction. This work highlights the heritability of olfactory function and its relationship with PD heritability and provides further insight into the association between PD and hyposmia. Show less

📄 PDF DOI: 10.1038/s41531-024-00838-4

ANAPC4

Distinct strategies for intravascular triglyceride metabolism in hearts of mammals and lower vertebrate species.

Le Phuong Nguyen, Wenxin Song, Ye Yang +21 more · 2024 · JCI insight · added 2026-04-24

Lipoprotein lipase (LPL) and multiple regulators of LPL activity (e.g., APOC2 and ANGPTL4) are present in all vertebrates, but GPIHBP1-the endothelial cell (EC) protein that captures LPL within the su Show more

Lipoprotein lipase (LPL) and multiple regulators of LPL activity (e.g., APOC2 and ANGPTL4) are present in all vertebrates, but GPIHBP1-the endothelial cell (EC) protein that captures LPL within the subendothelial spaces and transports it to its site of action in the capillary lumen-is present in mammals but in not chickens or other lower vertebrates. In mammals, GPIHBP1 deficiency causes severe hypertriglyceridemia, but chickens maintain low triglyceride levels despite the absence of GPIHBP1. To understand intravascular lipolysis in lower vertebrates, we examined LPL expression in mouse and chicken hearts. In both species, LPL was abundant on capillaries, but the distribution of Lpl transcripts was strikingly different. In mouse hearts, Lpl transcripts were extremely abundant in cardiomyocytes but were barely detectable in capillary ECs. In chicken hearts, Lpl transcripts were absent in cardiomyocytes but abundant in capillary ECs. In zebrafish hearts, lpl transcripts were also in capillary ECs but not cardiomyocytes. In both mouse and chicken hearts, LPL was present, as judged by immunogold electron microscopy, in the glycocalyx of capillary ECs. Thus, mammals produce LPL in cardiomyocytes and rely on GPIHBP1 to transport the LPL into capillaries, whereas lower vertebrates produce LPL directly in capillary ECs, rendering an LPL transporter unnecessary. Show less

📄 PDF DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.184940

Potential role of ANGPTL4 in cancer progression, metastasis, and metabolism: a brief review.

Min Seok Park, Sang Eun Kim, Pureunchowon Lee +3 more · 2024 · BMB reports · added 2026-04-24

Min Seok Park, Sang Eun Kim, Pureunchowon Lee, Ju-Hee Lee, Kyung Hee Jung, Soon-Sun Hong Show less

Angiopoietin-like 4 (ANGPTL4) has been identified as an adipokine involved in several non-metabolic and metabolic diseases, including angiogenesis, glucose homeostasis, and lipid metabolism. To date, Show more

Angiopoietin-like 4 (ANGPTL4) has been identified as an adipokine involved in several non-metabolic and metabolic diseases, including angiogenesis, glucose homeostasis, and lipid metabolism. To date, the role of ANGPTL4 in cancer growth and progression, and metastasis, has been variable. Accumulating evidence suggests that proteolytic processing and posttranslational modifications of ANGPTL4 can significantly alter its function, and may contribute to the multiple and conflicting roles of ANGPTL4 in a tissue-dependent manner. With the growing interest in ANGPTL4 in cancer diagnosis and therapy, we aim to provide an up-to-date review of the implications of ANGPTL4 as a biomarker/oncogene in cancer metabolism, metastasis, and the tumor microenvironment (TME). In cancer cells, ANGPTL4 plays an important role in regulating metabolism by altering intracellular glucose, lipid, and amino acid metabolism. We also highlight the knowledge gaps and future prospect of ANGPTL4 in lymphatic metastasis and perineural invasion through various signaling pathways, underscoring its importance in cancer progression and prognosis. Through this review, a better understanding of the role of ANGPTL4 in cancer progression within the TME will provide new insights into other aspects of tumorigenesis and the potential therapeutic value of ANGPTL4. [BMB Reports 2024; 57(8): 343-351]. Show less

📄 PDF DOI: 10.5483/BMBRep.2024-0082

C-terminally phosphorylated p27 activates self-renewal driver genes to program cancer stem cell expansion, mammary hyperplasia and cancer.

Seyedeh Fatemeh Razavipour, Hyunho Yoon, Kibeom Jang +13 more · 2024 · Nature communications · Nature · added 2026-04-24

Seyedeh Fatemeh Razavipour, Hyunho Yoon, Kibeom Jang, Minsoon Kim, Hend M Nawara, Amir Bagheri, Wei-Chi Huang, Miyoung Shin, Dekuang Zhao, Zhiqun Zhou, Derek Van Boven, Karoline Briegel, Lluis Morey, Tan A Ince, Michael Johnson, Joyce M Slingerland Show less

In many cancers, a stem-like cell subpopulation mediates tumor initiation, dissemination and drug resistance. Here, we report that cancer stem cell (CSC) abundance is transcriptionally regulated by C- Show more

In many cancers, a stem-like cell subpopulation mediates tumor initiation, dissemination and drug resistance. Here, we report that cancer stem cell (CSC) abundance is transcriptionally regulated by C-terminally phosphorylated p27 (p27pT157pT198). Mechanistically, this arises through p27 co-recruitment with STAT3/CBP to gene regulators of CSC self-renewal including MYC, the Notch ligand JAG1, and ANGPTL4. p27pTpT/STAT3 also recruits a SIN3A/HDAC1 complex to co-repress the Pyk2 inhibitor, PTPN12. Pyk2, in turn, activates STAT3, creating a feed-forward loop increasing stem-like properties in vitro and tumor-initiating stem cells in vivo. The p27-activated gene profile is over-represented in STAT3 activated human breast cancers. Furthermore, mammary transgenic expression of phosphomimetic, cyclin-CDK-binding defective p27 (p27CK-DD) increases mammary duct branching morphogenesis, yielding hyperplasia and microinvasive cancers that can metastasize to liver, further supporting a role for p27pTpT in CSC expansion. Thus, p27pTpT interacts with STAT3, driving transcriptional programs governing stem cell expansion or maintenance in normal and cancer tissues. Show less

📄 PDF DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48742-y

Exploring Memory Function Beyond Immune Cells: ANGPTL4-Mediated Memory Functions in Tissue Resident Stem Cells.

Se-Ra Park, Eun-Kyung Min, Soo-Rim Kim +6 more · 2024 · Advanced science (Weinheim, Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany) · Wiley · added 2026-04-24

Se-Ra Park, Eun-Kyung Min, Soo-Rim Kim, Suk-Kyung Kim, Kun-Hee Na, Chan Hum Park, YunJae Jung, Byung-Chul Oh, In-Sun Hong Show less

Adapted immune cells are known to develop memory functions that increase resistance to subsequent infections after initial pathogen exposure, however, it is unclear whether non-immune cells, like tiss Show more

Adapted immune cells are known to develop memory functions that increase resistance to subsequent infections after initial pathogen exposure, however, it is unclear whether non-immune cells, like tissue-resident stem cells, have similar memory functions. Here, it is found that tissue-resident stem cells crucial for tissue regeneration show diminished adverse effects on diverse stem cell functions against successive exposure to foreign antigen (β-glucan) to maintain tissue homeostasis and stability both in vitro and in vivo. These data suggest that endometrial stem cells may possess a robust memory function, in contrast, fully differentiated cells like fibroblasts and vesicular cells do not show these memory mechanisms upon consecutive antigen exposure. Moreover, the pivotal role of Angiopoietin-like 4 (ANGPTL4) in regulating the memory functions of endometrial stem cells is identified through specific shRNA knockdown in vitro and knockout mice in vivo experiments. ANGPTL4 is associated with the alteration of diverse stem cell functions and epigenetic modifications, notably through histone H3 methylation changes and two pathways (i.e., PI3K/Akt and FAK/ERK1/2 signaling) upon consecutive antigen exposure. These findings imply the existence of inherent self-defense mechanisms through which local stem cells can adapt and protect themselves from recurrent antigenic challenges, ultimately mitigating adverse consequences. Show less

📄 PDF DOI: 10.1002/advs.202307545

Identification of memory mechanism in tissue-resident stem cells via ANGPTL4 beyond immune cells upon viral antigen exposure.

Eun-Kyung Min, Soo-Rim Kim, Choon-Mi Lee +5 more · 2024 · Molecular therapy : the journal of the American Society of Gene Therapy · Elsevier · added 2026-04-24

Eun-Kyung Min, Soo-Rim Kim, Choon-Mi Lee, Kun-Hee Na, Chan Hum Park, Byung-Chul Oh, YunJae Jung, In-Sun Hong Show less

Although memory functions of immune cells characterized by increased resistance to subsequent infections after initial pathogen exposure are well-established, it remains unclear whether non-immune cel Show more

Although memory functions of immune cells characterized by increased resistance to subsequent infections after initial pathogen exposure are well-established, it remains unclear whether non-immune cells, especially tissue-resident stem cells, exhibit similar memory mechanisms. The present study revealed that detrimental effects of initial viral antigen exposure (human papillomavirus [HPV]) on diverse stem cell functions were significantly exacerbated upon subsequent secondary exposure both in vitro and in vivo. Importantly, endometrial stem cells exhibited robust memory functions following consecutive HPV antigen exposures, whereas fully differentiated cells such as fibroblasts and vesicular cells did not show corresponding changes in response to the same antigen exposures. Deficiency of angiopoietin-like 4 (ANGPTL4) achieved through small hairpin RNA knockdown in vitro and knockout (KO) mice in vivo highlighted the critical role of ANGPTL4 in governing memory functions associated with various stem cell processes. This regulation occurred through histone H3 methylation alterations and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways in response to successive HPV antigen exposures. Furthermore, memory functions associated with various stem cell functions that were evident in wild-type mice following consecutive exposures to HPV antigen were not observed in ANGPTL4 KO mice. In summary, our findings strongly support the presence of memory mechanism in non-immune cells, particularly tissue-resident stem cells. Show less

no PDF DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.04.006

Mitochondrial-derived microprotein MOTS-c attenuates immobilization-induced skeletal muscle atrophy by suppressing lipid infiltration.

Hiroshi Kumagai, Su-Jeong Kim, Brendan Miller +9 more · 2024 · American journal of physiology. Endocrinology and metabolism · added 2026-04-24

Hiroshi Kumagai, Su-Jeong Kim, Brendan Miller, Toshiharu Natsume, Junxiang Wan, Michi Emma Kumagai, Ricardo Ramirez, Shin Hyung Lee, Ayaka Sato, Hemal H Mehta, Kelvin Yen, Pinchas Cohen Show less

Mitochondrial open reading frame of the 12S ribosomal RNA type-c (MOTS-c), a mitochondrial microprotein, has been described as a novel regulator of glucose and lipid metabolism. In addition to its rol Show more

Mitochondrial open reading frame of the 12S ribosomal RNA type-c (MOTS-c), a mitochondrial microprotein, has been described as a novel regulator of glucose and lipid metabolism. In addition to its role as a metabolic regulator, MOTS-c prevents skeletal muscle atrophy in high fat-fed mice. Here, we examined the preventive effect of MOTS-c on skeletal muscle mass, using an immobilization-induced muscle atrophy model, and explored its underlying mechanisms. Male C57BL/6J mice (10 wk old) were randomly assigned to one of the three experimental groups: nonimmobilization control group (sterilized water injection), immobilization control group (sterilized water injection), and immobilization and MOTS-c-treated group (15 mg/kg/day MOTS-c injection). We used casting tape for the immobilization experiment. After 8 days of the experimental period, skeletal muscle samples were collected and used for Western blotting, RNA sequencing, and lipid and collagen assays. Immobilization reduced ∼15% of muscle mass, whereas MOTS-c treatment attenuated muscle loss, with only a 5% reduction. MOTS-c treatment also normalized phospho-AKT, phospho-FOXO1, and phospho-FOXO3a expression levels and reduced circulating inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-1b (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), chemokine C-X-C motif ligand 1 (CXCL1), and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1), in immobilized mice. Unbiased RNA sequencing and its downstream analyses demonstrated that MOTS-c modified adipogenesis-modulating gene expression within the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) pathway. Supporting this observation, muscle fatty acid levels were lower in the MOTS-c-treated group than in the casted control mice. These results suggest that MOTS-c treatment inhibits skeletal muscle lipid infiltration by regulating adipogenesis-related genes and prevents immobilization-induced muscle atrophy. Show less

no PDF DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00285.2023

A paintable and adhesive hydrogel cardiac patch with sustained release of ANGPTL4 for infarcted heart repair.

Mingyu Lee, Yong Sook Kim, Junggeon Park +8 more · 2024 · Bioactive materials · Elsevier · added 2026-04-24

Mingyu Lee, Yong Sook Kim, Junggeon Park, Goeun Choe, Sanghun Lee, Bo Gyeong Kang, Ju Hee Jun, Yoonmin Shin, Minchul Kim, Youngkeun Ahn, Jae Young Lee Show less

The infarcted heart undergoes irreversible pathological remodeling after reperfusion involving left ventricle dilation and excessive inflammatory reactions in the infarcted heart, frequently leading t Show more

The infarcted heart undergoes irreversible pathological remodeling after reperfusion involving left ventricle dilation and excessive inflammatory reactions in the infarcted heart, frequently leading to fatal functional damage. Extensive attempts have been made to attenuate pathological remodeling in infarcted hearts using cardiac patches and anti-inflammatory drug delivery. In this study, we developed a paintable and adhesive hydrogel patch using dextran-aldehyde (dex-ald) and gelatin, incorporating the anti-inflammatory protein, ANGPTL4, into the hydrogel for sustained release directly to the infarcted heart to alleviate inflammation. We optimized the material composition, including polymer concentration and molecular weight, to achieve a paintable, adhesive hydrogel using 10% gelatin and 5% dex-ald, which displayed in-situ gel formation within 135 s, cardiac tissue-like modulus (40.5 kPa), suitable tissue adhesiveness (4.3 kPa), and excellent mechanical stability. ANGPTL4 was continuously released from the gelatin/dex-ald hydrogel without substantial burst release. The gelatin/dex-ald hydrogel could be conveniently painted onto the beating heart and degraded in vivo. Moreover, in vivo studies using animal models of acute myocardial infarction revealed that our hydrogel cardiac patch containing ANGPTL4 significantly improved heart tissue repair, evaluated by echocardiography and histological evaluation. The heart tissues treated with ANGPTL4-loaded hydrogel patches exhibited increased vascularization, reduced inflammatory macrophages, and structural maturation of cardiac cells. Our novel hydrogel system, which allows for facile paintability, appropriate tissue adhesiveness, and sustained release of anti-inflammatory drugs, will serve as an effective platform for the repair of various tissues, including heart, muscle, and cartilage. Show less

📄 PDF DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2023.08.020

Genome-wide association study for metabolic syndrome reveals APOA5 single nucleotide polymorphisms with multilayered effects in Koreans.

Young Jun Park, Sungji Moon, Jaeyong Choi +5 more · 2024 · Lipids in health and disease · BioMed Central · added 2026-04-24

Young Jun Park, Sungji Moon, Jaeyong Choi, Juhyun Kim, Hyun-Jin Kim, Ho-Young Son, Sun-Wha Im, Jong-Il Kim Show less

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of metabolic syndrome (MetS) have predominantly focused on non-Asian populations, with limited representation from East Asian cohorts. Moreover, previous GWAS an Show more

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of metabolic syndrome (MetS) have predominantly focused on non-Asian populations, with limited representation from East Asian cohorts. Moreover, previous GWAS analyses have primarily emphasized the significance of top single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), poorly explaining other SNP signals in linkage disequilibrium. This study aimed to reveal the interaction between rs651821 and rs2266788, the principal variants of apolipoprotein A5 (APOA5), within the most significant loci identified through GWAS on MetS. GWAS on MetS and its components was conducted using the data from the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (KoGES) city cohort comprising 58,600 individuals with available biochemical, demographic, lifestyle factors, and the most significant APOA5 locus was analyzed further in depth. According to GWAS of MetS and its diagnostic components, a significant association between the APOA5 SNPs rs651821/rs2266788 and MetS/triglycerides/high-density lipoprotein phenotypes was revealed. However, a conditional analysis employing rs651821 unveiled a reversal in the odds ratio for rs2266788. Therefore, rs651821 and rs2266788 emerged as independent and opposing signals in the extended GWAS analysis, i.e., the multilayered effects. Further gene-environment interaction analyses regarding lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and physical activity underscored these multilayered effects. This study unveils the intricate interplay between rs651821 and rs2266788 derived from MetS GWAS. Removing the influence of lead SNP reveals an independent protective signal associated with rs2266788, suggesting a multilayered effect between these SNPs. These findings underline the need for novel perspectives in future MetS GWAS. Show less

📄 PDF DOI: 10.1186/s12944-024-02248-0

APOA5

Consumption of dietary fiber and APOA5 genetic variants in metabolic syndrome: baseline data from the Korean Medicine Daejeon Citizen Cohort Study.

Jimi Kim, Younghwa Baek, Siwoo Lee · 2024 · Nutrition & metabolism · BioMed Central · added 2026-04-24

Consumption of dietary fiber has been suggested as an important aspect of a healthy diet to reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome (MetS), including cardiovascular disease. The role of fiber intake in Show more

Consumption of dietary fiber has been suggested as an important aspect of a healthy diet to reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome (MetS), including cardiovascular disease. The role of fiber intake in MetS might differ by individual genetic susceptibility. APOA5 encodes a regulator of plasma triglyceride levels, which impacts the related mechanisms of MetS. This study investigated the association between dietary fiber and the risk of MetS, assessing their associations according to APOA5 genetic variants. A total of 1985 participants aged 30-55 years were included from a cross-sectional study based on the Korean Medicine Daejeon Citizen Cohort study at baseline (2017-2019). Dietary fiber intake was measured using a semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire. The APOA5 polymorphisms (rs2266788 A > G, rs662799 A > G, and rs651821 T > C) were genotyped using the Asia Precision Medicine Research Array. Logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). A higher consumption of dietary fiber was associated with a lower prevalence of MetS (P = 0.025). Among the components of MetS, an inverse association with dietary fiber was observed in increased waist circumference (OR, 95% CI = 0.60, 0.41-0.88, P for trend = 0.009) and elevated triglycerides (OR, 95% CI = 0.69, 0.50-0.96, P for trend = 0.012). Regarding the interaction with APOA5 genetic variants, a stronger association with dietary fiber intake was shown in G allele carriers of rs662799 than in A/A carriers (OR, 95% CI = 2.34, 1.59-3.44, P for interaction = 0.024) and in C allele carriers of rs651821 than in T/T carriers (OR, 95% CI = 2.35, 1.59-3.46, P for interaction = 0.027). The findings of this study suggest that the benefits of dietary fiber on the risk of MetS could be modified by genetic variants of the APOA5 gene, providing a more effective strategy for preventing MetS. Show less

📄 PDF DOI: 10.1186/s12986-024-00793-0

APOA5

Exploring LDLR-APOB Interactions in Familial Hypercholesterolemia in the Vietnamese Population: A Protein-Protein Docking Approach.

Ngoc-Thanh Kim, Doan-Loi Do, Mai-Ngoc Thi Nguyen +3 more · 2024 · Bioinformatics and biology insights · SAGE Publications · added 2026-04-24

Ngoc-Thanh Kim, Doan-Loi Do, Mai-Ngoc Thi Nguyen, Hong-An Le, Thanh-Tung Le, Thanh-Huong Truong Show less

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are closely linked to factors such as familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), often caused by mutations in low-density lipoprotein receptor (

📄 PDF DOI: 10.1177/11779322241301267

Longitudinal analysis of adiponectin to leptin and apolipoprotein B to A1 ratios as markers of future airflow obstruction and lung function decline.

Seohyun Kim, Chin Kook Rhee, Yong Suk Jo +4 more · 2024 · Scientific reports · Nature · added 2026-04-24

Seohyun Kim, Chin Kook Rhee, Yong Suk Jo, Jeong Uk Lim, Sang Hyuk Kim, Jaeeun Yoo, Joon Young Choi Show less

Previous studies suggest associations between the risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and adiponectin/leptin (ALR) and apolipoprotein B/A1 (APOR) ratios. This longitudinal Show more

Previous studies suggest associations between the risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and adiponectin/leptin (ALR) and apolipoprotein B/A1 (APOR) ratios. This longitudinal observational study, using data from the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (KoGES), examined the rate of lung function decline, risk factors for the airflow obstruction (AFO), and the time to first AFO based on ALR and APOR groups. Among 5578 participants, high ALR and low APOR were associated with rapid decline in lung function and a shorter time to the first AFO. The high ALR group and the combined high ALR and low APOR group showed higher risk of experiencing AFO both at least once (RR 1.46, 95% CI 1.12-1.90; RR 1.74, 95% CI 1.23-2.46, respectively) and at the final follow up (RR 1.44, 95% CI 1.05-1.96; RR 1.72, 95% CI 1.14-2.60, respectively). High ALR and the combined high ALR and low APOR were identified as risk factors for earlier time to first AFO. This study highlights the potential of ALR and APOR as makers for predicting the risk of future airflow obstruction. Show less

📄 PDF DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-80055-4

Liver-specific Coxsackievirus and adenovirus receptor deletion develop metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease.

Hong-Gi Kim, Jin-Ho Park, Ha-Hyun Shin +7 more · 2024 · Scientific reports · Nature · added 2026-04-24

Hong-Gi Kim, Jin-Ho Park, Ha-Hyun Shin, So-Hee Kim, Ha-Eun Jeon, Ji-Hwa Shin, Young-Suk Won, Hyo-Jung Kwon, Eun-Seok Jeon, Byung-Kwan Lim Show less

Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is a common liver disease associated with obesity and is caused by the accumulation of ectopic fat without alcohol consumption. Coxsackievi Show more

Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is a common liver disease associated with obesity and is caused by the accumulation of ectopic fat without alcohol consumption. Coxsackievirus and adenovirus receptor (CAR) are vital for cardiac myocyte-intercalated discs and endothelial cell-to-cell tight junctions. CAR has also been reported to be associated with obesity and high blood pressure. However, its function in the liver is still not well understood. The liver of obese mice exhibit elevated CAR mRNA and protein levels. Furthermore, in the liver of patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, CAR is reduced in hepatocyte cell-cell junctions compared to normal levels. We generated liver-specific CAR knockout (KO) mice to investigate the role of CAR in the liver. Body and liver weights were not different between wild-type (WT) and KO mice fed a paired or high-fat diet (HFD). However, HFD induced significant liver damage and lipid accumulation in CAR KO mice compared with WT mice. Additionally, inflammatory cytokines transcription, hepatic permeability, and macrophage recruitment considerably increased in CAR KO mice. We identified a new interaction partner of CAR using a protein pull-down assay and mass spectrometry. Apolipoprotein B mRNA editing enzyme catalytic polypeptide-like 3C (APOBEC3C) demonstrated a complex relationship with CAR, and hepatic CAR expression tightly regulated its level. Moreover, Apolipoprotein B (ApoB) and Low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) levels correlated with APOBEC3C expression in the liver of CAR KO mice, suggesting that CAR may regulate lipid accumulation by controlling APOBEC3C activity. In this study, we showed that hepatic CAR deficiency increased cell-to-cell permeability. In addition, CAR deletion significantly increased hepatic lipid accumulation by inducing ApoB and LDLR expression. Although the underlying mechanism is unclear, CARs may be a target for the development of novel therapies for MAFLD. Show less

📄 PDF DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-72561-2

The Impact of

Soo-Yeon Park, Tae Gwon Park, Kwanyong Choi +2 more · 2024 · Nutrients · MDPI · added 2026-04-24

Soo-Yeon Park, Tae Gwon Park, Kwanyong Choi, Kyeong Jin Kim, Ji Yeon Kim Show less

📄 PDF DOI: 10.3390/nu16172864

Enhancing Familial Hypercholesterolemia Detection in South Korea: A Targeted Screening Approach Integrating National Program and Genetic Cascade Screening.

Jung-Ho Yang, Kyung Hoon Cho, Young Joon Hong +3 more · 2024 · Korean circulation journal · added 2026-04-24

Jung-Ho Yang, Kyung Hoon Cho, Young Joon Hong, Ju Han Kim, Hye-Yeon Kim, Min-Ho Shin Show less

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) increases the risk of premature cardiovascular disease through disrupted low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) metabolism. Although FH is a severe condition, i Show more

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) increases the risk of premature cardiovascular disease through disrupted low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) metabolism. Although FH is a severe condition, it remains widely underdiagnosed, which can be attributed to barriers in genetic testing and a lack of awareness. This study aims to propose and evaluate a targeted screening program for FH in South Korea by integrating the General Health Screening Program (GHSP) with cascade genetic screening. The study included individuals with LDL-C levels ≥190 mg/dL identified during the 2021 GHSP (primary participants). Data on demographics, lifestyle, medical history, and family history were collected through questionnaires. Targeted next-generation sequencing was used to identify pathogenic mutations in the Among 83 individuals with severe hypercholesterolemia identified through the GHSP, 7 primary participants (8.4%) carried pathogenic mutations in the Integrating community resources with FH screening can enhance the early detection and treatment of FH. By utilizing GHSP data and adding genetic screening, the proposed model provides a strategy to reduce the cardiovascular risks associated with FH, supporting its wider adoption at the national level. Show less

📄 PDF DOI: 10.4070/kcj.2024.0107

Association between atherogenic dyslipidemia and muscle quality defined by myosteatosis.

Hwi Seung Kim, Yun Kyung Cho, Myung Jin Kim +5 more · 2024 · Frontiers in endocrinology · Frontiers · added 2026-04-24

Hwi Seung Kim, Yun Kyung Cho, Myung Jin Kim, Eun Hee Kim, Min Jung Lee, Woo Je Lee, Hong-Kyu Kim, Chang Hee Jung Show less

Myosteatosis, ectopic fat accumulation in skeletal muscle, is a crucial component of sarcopenia, linked to various cardiometabolic diseases. This study aimed to analyze the association between dyslipi Show more

Myosteatosis, ectopic fat accumulation in skeletal muscle, is a crucial component of sarcopenia, linked to various cardiometabolic diseases. This study aimed to analyze the association between dyslipidemia and myosteatosis using abdominal computed tomography (CT) in a large population. This study included 11,823 patients not taking lipid-lowering medications with abdominal CT taken between 2012 and 2013. Total abdominal muscle area (TAMA), measured at the L3 level, was segmented into skeletal muscle area (SMA) and intramuscular adipose tissue. SMA was further classified into normal attenuation muscle area (NAMA: good quality muscle) and low attenuation muscle area (poor quality muscle). NAMA divided by TAMA (NAMA/TAMA) represents good quality muscle. Atherosclerotic dyslipidemia was defined as high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) less than 40 mg/dL in men and 50 mg/dL in women, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) greater than 160 mg/dL, triglycerides (TG) greater than 150 mg/dL, small dense LDL-C (sdLDL-C) greater than 50.0 mg/dL, or apolipoprotein B/A1 (apoB/A1) greater than 0.08. The adjusted odds ratios (ORs) of dyslipidemia according to the HDL-C and sdLDL definitions were greater in both sexes in the lower quartiles (Q1~3) of NAMA/TAMA compared with Q4. As per other definitions, the ORs were significantly increased in only women for LDL-C and only men for TG and ApoB/A1. In men, all lipid parameters were significantly associated with NAMA/TAMA, while TG and ApoB/A1 did not show significant association in women. Myosteatosis measured in abdominal CT was significantly associated with a higher risk of dyslipidemia. Myosteatosis may be an important risk factor for dyslipidemia and ensuing cardiometabolic diseases. Show less

📄 PDF DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1327522

Time-course cross-species transcriptomics reveals conserved hepatotoxicity pathways induced by repeated administration of cyclosporine A.

Nguyen Tran Nam Tien, Trinh Tam Anh, Nguyen Thi Hai Yen +6 more · 2024 · Toxicology mechanisms and methods · Taylor & Francis · added 2026-04-24

Nguyen Tran Nam Tien, Trinh Tam Anh, Nguyen Thi Hai Yen, Nguyen Ky Anh, Huy Truong Nguyen, Ho-Sook Kim, Jung-Hwa Oh, Dong-Hyun Kim, Nguyen Phuoc Long Show less

Cyclosporine A (CsA) has shown efficacy against immunity-related diseases despite its toxicity in various organs, including the liver, emphasizing the need to elucidate its underlying hepatotoxicity m Show more

Cyclosporine A (CsA) has shown efficacy against immunity-related diseases despite its toxicity in various organs, including the liver, emphasizing the need to elucidate its underlying hepatotoxicity mechanism. This study aimed to capture the alterations in genome-wide expression over time and the subsequent perturbations of corresponding pathways across species. Six data from humans, mice, and rats, including animal liver tissue, human liver microtissues, and two liver cell lines exposed to CsA toxic dose, were used. The microtissue exposed to CsA for 10 d was analyzed to obtain dynamically differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Single-time points data at 1, 3, 5, 7, and 28 d of different species were used to provide additional evidence. Using liver microtissue-based longitudinal design, DEGs that were consistently up- or down-regulated over time were captured, and the well-known mechanism involved in CsA toxicity was elucidated. Thirty DEGs that consistently changed in longitudinal data were also altered in 28-d rat in-house data with concordant expression. Some genes (e.g. Show less

no PDF DOI: 10.1080/15376516.2024.2371894