Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is one of the most lethal urological malignancies, yet its pathogenesis remains unclear. Here, we reported a long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), NONHSAT 113026 (NOAT113026), which Show more
Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is one of the most lethal urological malignancies, yet its pathogenesis remains unclear. Here, we reported a long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), NONHSAT 113026 (NOAT113026), which may play an important role in the pathogenesis of RCC. The expression level of NOAT113026 was estimated by qPCR from 76 pairs of RCC and non-tumor (NT) samples. The correlation between NOAT113026 and clinical data of RCC patients was analyzed. NOAT113026 was overexpressed in 786-O and ACHN cell lines by lentivirus-mediated technology and the oncological behavioral changes of RCC cells were observed along with tumorigenicity in experimental nude mice. Compared to the adjacent tissues, NOAT113026 was noticeably downregulated in RCC. Survival analysis showed that the lower the expression level of NOAT113026 was, the shorter the disease-free survival and overall survival in RCC would be. Overexpression of NOAT113026 can decrease the ability of cell migration, invasion, proliferation, and colony formation by regulating NF-κB/p50 and SLUG through a mechanism that involves lncRNA-mRNA interactions. In conclusion, our data suggest that NOAT113026 could be a carcinostatic RNA in RCC, which may serve as a potential prognostic factor and a promising therapeutic target for malignant RCC. Show less
Single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) and RNA regions that include at least four closely spaced runs of three or more consecutive guanosines strongly tend to fold into stable G-quadruplexes (G4s). G4s play key Show more
Single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) and RNA regions that include at least four closely spaced runs of three or more consecutive guanosines strongly tend to fold into stable G-quadruplexes (G4s). G4s play key roles as DNA regulatory sites and as kinetic traps that can inhibit biological processes, but how G4s are regulated in cells remains largely unknown. Here, we developed a kinetic framework for G4 disruption by DEAH-box helicase 36 (DHX36), the dominant G4 resolvase in human cells. Using tetramolecular DNA and RNA G4s with four to six G-quartets, we found that DHX36-mediated disruption is highly efficient, with rates that depend on G4 length under saturating conditions ( Show less
Hua Su, Wei Liu · 2018 · Autophagy · Taylor & Francis · added 2026-04-24
PIK3C3/VPS34 (phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase catalytic subunit type 3) converts phosphatidylinositol (PtdIns) to phosphatidylinositol-3-phosphate (PtdIns3P), sustaining macroautophagy/autophagy and end Show more
PIK3C3/VPS34 (phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase catalytic subunit type 3) converts phosphatidylinositol (PtdIns) to phosphatidylinositol-3-phosphate (PtdIns3P), sustaining macroautophagy/autophagy and endosomal transport. So far, facilitating the assembly of the PIK3C3/VPS34-BECN1-PIK3R4/VPS15/p150 core complex at distinct membranes is the only known way to activate PIK3C3/VPS34 in cells. We have recently revealed a novel mechanism that regulates PIK3C3/VPS34 activation; cellular PIK3C3/VPS34 is repressed under nutrient-rich conditions by EP300/p300-mediated acetylation. Following nutrient-deprivation that drops EP300 activity, PIK3C3/VPS34 is liberated by deacetylation. Intriguingly, while deacetylation of the N-terminal K29 residue accounts for core complex formation, deacetylation at the C-terminal K771 site determines the binding of PIK3C3/VPS34 to its substrate PtdIns. In vitro and in cell evidence shows that EP300-dependent acetylation and deacetylation is a switch for turning off/on PIK3C3/VPS34 in which deacetylation of K771 is required for its full activation. This PIK3C3/VPS34 activation mechanism is utilized not only by starvation-induced autophagy but also by autophagy without the involvement of AMPK, MTORC1 or ULK1. These findings suggest an alternative circuit in cells for PIK3C3/VPS34 activation, which is involved in membrane transformations in response to metabolic and nonmetabolic cues. Show less
Alzheimer disease (AD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder with distinct pathological features, with aging considered the greatest risk factor. We explored how aging contributes to increased AD ris Show more
Alzheimer disease (AD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder with distinct pathological features, with aging considered the greatest risk factor. We explored how aging contributes to increased AD risk, and determined concurrent and coordinate changes (including genetic and phenotypic modifications) commonly exhibited in both normal aging and AD. Using the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, we collected 1 healthy aging-related and 3 AD-related datasets of the hippocampal region. The normal aging dataset was divided into 3 age groups: young (20-40 years old), middle-aged (40-60 years old), and elderly (>60 years old). These datasets were used to analyze the differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The Gene Ontology (GO) terms, pathways, and function network analysis of these DEGs were analyzed. One thousand two hundred ninety-one DEGs were found to be shared in the natural aging groups and AD patients. Among the shared DEGs, ATP6V1E1, GNG3, NDUFV2, GOT1, USP14, and NAV2 have been previously found in both normal aging individuals and AD patients. Furthermore, using Java Enrichment of Pathways Extended to Topology (JEPETTO) analysis based on Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database, we determined that changes in aging-related KEGG annotations may contribute to the aging-dependence of AD risk. Interestingly, NRXN3, the second most commonly deregulated gene identified in the present study, is known to carry a mutation in AD patients. According to functional network analysis, NRXN3 plays a critical role in synaptic functions involved in the cognitive decline associated with normal aging and AD. Our results indicate that the low expression of aging-related NRXN3 may increase AD risk, though the potential mechanism requires further clarification. Show less
Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) have been proved to be capable of differentiating into endothelial cells (ECs), however, the differentiation efficiency is rather low. Sonic hedgehog Show more
Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) have been proved to be capable of differentiating into endothelial cells (ECs), however, the differentiation efficiency is rather low. Sonic hedgehog (Shh), an important factor in vascular development and postnatal angiogenesis, exerted promotional effect on new vessel formation in the ischemic animal models. Therefore, the current study aims to investigate whether Shh could induce the endothelial differentiation of BMSCs both The current study over-expressed Shh in BMSCs by lentivirus transduction. Reverse-transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) analysis was performed to determine the angiogenic factors in both control BMSCs and Shh over-expressed BMSCs. Immunocytochemistry was also conducted to examine the EC markers. Angiogenesis was determined by Shh expression was increased by about 3,000-fold and 5,000-fold at 3 days-transfection and 7 days-transfection, respectively. Patched 1 (Ptch1), the receptor for Shh, had a two-fold increase after transduction. The angiogenic factors such as hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), angiopoietin-1 (Ang-1), insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) had at least a 1.5-fold increase after transduction. Expression of EC-lineage markers, CD31 and VE-cadherin, on Shh-overexpressed BMSCs were increasingly detected by immunocytostaining. Angiogenesis of BMSCs could be efficiently induced by Shh overexpression in the This study demonstrated that Shh could promote endothelial differentiation of BMSCs via VEGF-D. Show less
Platelet αIIbβ3 integrin and its ligands are essential for thrombosis and hemostasis, and play key roles in myocardial infarction and stroke. Here we show that apolipoprotein A-IV (apoA-IV) can be iso Show more
Platelet αIIbβ3 integrin and its ligands are essential for thrombosis and hemostasis, and play key roles in myocardial infarction and stroke. Here we show that apolipoprotein A-IV (apoA-IV) can be isolated from human blood plasma using platelet β3 integrin-coated beads. Binding of apoA-IV to platelets requires activation of αIIbβ3 integrin, and the direct apoA-IV-αIIbβ3 interaction can be detected using a single-molecule Biomembrane Force Probe. We identify that aspartic acids 5 and 13 at the N-terminus of apoA-IV are required for binding to αIIbβ3 integrin, which is additionally modulated by apoA-IV C-terminus via intra-molecular interactions. ApoA-IV inhibits platelet aggregation and postprandial platelet hyperactivity. Human apoA-IV plasma levels show a circadian rhythm that negatively correlates with platelet aggregation and cardiovascular events. Thus, we identify apoA-IV as a novel ligand of αIIbβ3 integrin and an endogenous inhibitor of thrombosis, establishing a link between lipoprotein metabolism and cardiovascular diseases. Show less
Obesity is causally associated with atherosclerosis, and adipose tissue (AT)-derived exosomes may be implicated in the metabolic complications of obesity. However, the precise role of AT-exosomes in a Show more
Obesity is causally associated with atherosclerosis, and adipose tissue (AT)-derived exosomes may be implicated in the metabolic complications of obesity. However, the precise role of AT-exosomes in atherogenesis remains unclear. We herein aimed to assess the effect of AT-exosomes on macrophage foam cell formation and polarization and subsequent atherosclerosis development. Four types of exosomes isolated from the supernatants of ex vivo subcutaneous AT and visceral AT (VAT) explants that were derived from wild-type mice and high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese mice were effectively taken up by RAW264.7 macrophages. Both treatment with wild-type VAT exosomes and HFD-VAT exosomes, but not subcutaneous AT exosomes, markedly facilitated macrophage foam cell generation through the downregulation of ATP-binding cassette transporter (ABCA1 and ABCG1)-mediated cholesterol efflux. Decreased expression of liver X receptor-α was also observed. Among the 4 types of exosomes, only HFD-VAT exosomes significantly induced M1 phenotype transition and proinflammatory cytokine (tumor necrosis factor α and interleukin 6) secretion in RAW264.7 macrophages, which was accompanied by increased phosphorylation of NF-κB-p65 but not the cellular expression of NF-κB-p65 or IκB-α. Furthermore, systematic intravenous injection of HFD-VAT exosomes profoundly exacerbated atherosclerosis in hyperlipidemic apolipoprotein E-deficient mice, as indicated by the M1 marker (CD16/32 and inducible nitric oxide synthase)-positive areas and the Oil Red O/Sudan IV-stained area, without affecting the plasma lipid profile and body weight. This study demonstrated a proatherosclerotic role for HFD-VAT exosomes, which is exerted by regulating macrophage foam cell formation and polarization, indicating a novel link between AT and atherosclerosis in the context of obesity. Show less
This study investigated the effects of dietary supplementation of fish oil on the signals of lipid metabolism involved in hepatic cholesterol and triglyceride influx and excretion in high-fat diet (HF Show more
This study investigated the effects of dietary supplementation of fish oil on the signals of lipid metabolism involved in hepatic cholesterol and triglyceride influx and excretion in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed rats. Fish oil (FO) repressed body (HFD, 533 ± 18.2 g; HFD+FO, 488 ± 28.0 g, p < 0.05) and liver weights (HFD, 5.7 ± 0.6 g/100 g of body weight; HFD+FO, 4.8 ± 0.4 g/100 g of body weight, p < 0.05) in HFD-fed rats. Fish oil could also improve HFD-induced imbalance of lipid metabolism in blood, liver, and adipose tissues including the significant decreases in plasma and liver total cholesterol (TC) (plasma-HFD, 113 ± 33.6 mg/dL; HFD+FO, 50.0 ± 5.95 mg/dL, p < 0.05; liver-HFD, 102 ± 13.0 mg/g liver; [corrected] HFD+FO, 86.6 ± 7.81 mg/g liver, [corrected] p < 0.05), blood, liver, and adipose triglyceride (TG) (blood-HFD, 52.5 ± 20.4 mg/dL; HFD+FO, 29.8 ± 4.30 mg/dL, p < 0.05; liver-HFD, 56.2 ± 10.0 mg/g liver; [corrected] HFD+FO, 30.3 ± 5.28 mg/g liver, [corrected] p < 0.05; adipose-HFD, 614 ± 73.2 mg/g liver, [corrected] HFD+FO, 409 ± 334 mg/g of adipose tissue, [corrected] p < 0.05), and low density (HFD, 79.8 ± 40.9 mg/dL; HFD+FO, 16.6 ± 5.47 mg/dL, p < 0.05) and very-low-density (HFD, 49.7 ± 33.3 mg/dL; HFD+FO, 10.4 ± 3.45 mg/dL, p < 0.05) lipoprotein and the significant increases in fecal TC (HFD, 12.2 ± 0.67 mg/g feces; [corrected] HFD+FO, 16.3 ± 2.04 mg/g feces, [corrected] < 0.05) and TG (HFD, 2.09 ± 0.10 mg/g feces; [corrected] HFD+FO, 2.38 ± 0.22 mg/g feces, [corrected] p < 0.05) and lipoprotein lipase activity of adipose tissues (HFD, 16.6 ± 3.64 μM p-nitrophenol; HFD+FO, 24.5 ± 4.19 μM p-nitrophenol, p < 0.05). Moreover, fish oil significantly activated the protein expressions of hepatic lipid metabolism regulators (AMPKα and PPARα) and significantly regulated the lipid-transport-related signaling molecules (ApoE, MTTP, ApoB, Angptl4, ApoCIII, ACOX1, and SREBPF1) in blood or liver of HFD-fed rats. These results suggest that fish oil supplementation improves HFD-induced imbalance of lipid homeostasis in blood, liver, and adipose tissues in rats. Show less
In the human body, 50-70 billion cells die every day, resulting in the generation of a large number of apoptotic bodies. However, the detailed biological role of apoptotic bodies in regulating tissue Show more
In the human body, 50-70 billion cells die every day, resulting in the generation of a large number of apoptotic bodies. However, the detailed biological role of apoptotic bodies in regulating tissue homeostasis remains unclear. In this study, we used Fas-deficient MRL/lpr and Caspase 3 Show less
Most patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy have single-gene autosomal dominant mutations in loci that encode for sarcomeric proteins. The aim of this study was to determine whether pathogenic muta Show more
Most patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy have single-gene autosomal dominant mutations in loci that encode for sarcomeric proteins. The aim of this study was to determine whether pathogenic mutations were present by whole-exome sequencing (WES) in two families with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) that presented during adolescence. Blood samples and clinical data were collected from individuals in two families with HCM. DNA was extracted. Mutations were identified using whole-exome sequencing (WES), and the genotypes of family members were identified using Sanger sequencing. Compound heterozygous mutations in the MYBPC3 gene (c.659A > G, p.Tyr220Cys; c.772G > A, p.Glu258Lys,NM₀₀₀₂₅₆, Family 1), (c.873delG, p. Ile292PhefsTer8; c.3G > A, p.Met1?, NM₀₀₀₂₅₆, Family 2) were identified by WES. Patient 1 carried the maternally inherited c.659A > G mutation and the paternally inherited c.772G > A mutation. Patient 2 carried the maternally inherited frameshift mutation c.873delG and the paternally inherited mutation c.3G > A. Two families with HCM presenting during adolescence (age of onset is about 11 years old) demonstrated compound heterozygous mutations in the MYBPC3 gene. These findings suggested an association of MYBPC3 mutations with the early onset of symptoms and worsened prognoses. Our study highlights the importance of genetic screening of all family members in cases of HCM. Show less
Chun-Han Chen, Chun A Changou, Tsung-Han Hsieh+9 more · 2018 · Clinical cancer research : an official journal of the American Association for Cancer Research · added 2026-04-24
Our previous study showed that catechin controlled rats' body weights and changed gut microbiota composition when supplemented into a high-fructo-oligosaccharide (FOS) diet. This experiment is devised Show more
Our previous study showed that catechin controlled rats' body weights and changed gut microbiota composition when supplemented into a high-fructo-oligosaccharide (FOS) diet. This experiment is devised to further confirm the relationship between specific bacteria in the colon and body weight gain, and to investigate how specific bacteria impact body weight by changing the expression of colonic epithelial cells. Forty obese rats were divided into four groups: three catechin-supplemented groups with a high-FOS diet (100, 400, and 700 mg kg-1 d-1 catechin, orally administered) and one group with a high-FOS diet only. Food consumption and body weights were recorded each week. After one month of treatment, rats' cecal content and colonic epithelial cells were individually collected and analyzed with MiSeq and gene expression profiling techniques, respectively. Results identified some specific bacteria at the genus level-including the increased Parabacteroides sp., Prevotella sp., Robinsoniella sp., [Ruminococcus], Phascolarctobacterium sp. and an unknown genus of YS2, and the decreased Lachnospira sp., Oscillospira sp., Ruminococcus sp., an unknown genus of Peptococcaceae and an unknown genus of Clostridiales in rats' cecum-and eight genes-including one downregulated Pla2g2a and seven upregulated genes: Apoa1, Apoa4, Aabr07073400.1, Fabp4, Pik3r5, Dgat2 and Ptgs2 of colonic epithelial cells-that were due to the consumption of catechin. Consequently, various biological functions in connection with energy metabolism in colonic epithelial cells were altered, including fat digestion and absorption and the regulation of lipolysis in adipocytes. In conclusion, catechin induces host weight loss by altering gut microbiota and gene expression and function in colonic epithelial cells. Show less
Fatty liver is a widespread disease in chickens that causes a decrease in egg production and even death. The characteristics of the inherited phenotype of acquired fatty liver and the molecular mechan Show more
Fatty liver is a widespread disease in chickens that causes a decrease in egg production and even death. The characteristics of the inherited phenotype of acquired fatty liver and the molecular mechanisms underlying it, however, are largely unknown. In the current study, fatty liver was induced in 3 breeds by a high-fat (HF) diet and a methionine choline-deficient (MCD) diet. The results showed that the dwarf Jingxing-Huang (JXH) chicken was more susceptible to fatty liver compared with the layer White Leghorns (WL) and local Beijing-You (BJY) breeds. In addition, it was found that the paternal fatty livers induced by HF diet in JXH chickens were inherited. Compared to birds without fatty liver in the control group, both offsprings and their sires with fatty livers in the paternal group exhibited altered hepatic gene expression profiles, including upregulation of several key genes involved in fatty acid metabolism, lipid metabolism and glucose metabolism ( Show less
Jia Wang, Jianhua Gong, Li Li+7 more · 2018 · Autism research : official journal of the International Society for Autism Research · Wiley · added 2026-04-24
Increasing evidence suggests that abnormal synaptic function leads to neuronal developmental disorders and is an important component of the etiology of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Neurexins are pr Show more
Zinc finger protein 259 (ZNF259), also known as ZPR1, is a zinc finger-containing protein that can bind the intracellular tyrosine kinase domain of EGFR. At present, our knowledge on ZNF259 in cancers Show more
Zinc finger protein 259 (ZNF259), also known as ZPR1, is a zinc finger-containing protein that can bind the intracellular tyrosine kinase domain of EGFR. At present, our knowledge on ZNF259 in cancers is limited. Here, we aimed to explore the biological functions of ZNF259 in breast cancer and reveal their mechanisms. The expression of ZNF259 was measured in 133 cases of breast cancer by immunohistochemistry. The online database Kaplan-Meier (KM) Plotter Online Tool was used to analyze the relationship between ZNF259 expression and breast cancer patient survival prognosis. Plasmid transfection and small interfering RNA and inhibitor treatments were carried out to explore the functions of ZNF259 in breast cancer cell lines and its potential mechanism. Matrigel invasion and wound healing assays were performed to detect the invasion and migration ability of cancer cells. In addition, protein expressions in tissues and cells were determined by Western blotting. ZNF259 expression was much higher in breast cancer cells than in the adjacent normal breast duct glandular epithelial cells (75.94% vs 7.52%, ZNF259 could promote breast cancer cell invasion and migration by activating the ERK/GSK3β/Snail signaling pathway. Show less
The development of acquired EGFR-TKI therapeutic resistance is still a serious clinical problem in the management of lung adenocarcinoma. Peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) agoni Show more
The development of acquired EGFR-TKI therapeutic resistance is still a serious clinical problem in the management of lung adenocarcinoma. Peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) agonists may exhibit anti-tumor activity by transactivating genes which are closely associated with cell proliferation, apoptosis, and differentiation. However, it remains not clear whether efatutazone has similar roles in lung adenocarcinoma cells of gefitinib resistant such as HCC827-GR and PC9-GR. It has been demonstrated by us that efatutazone prominently increased the mRNA and protein expression of PPARγ, liver X receptor alpha (LXRα),as well as ATP binding cassette subfamily A member 1 (ABCA1). In the presence of GW9662 (a specific antagonist of PPARγ) or GGPP (a specific antagonist of LXRα), efatutazone (40 μmol/L) restored the proliferation of both HCC827-GR and PC9-GR cells and obviously inhibited the increased protein and mRNA expression of PPAR-gamma, LXR-alpha, and ABCA1 induced by efatutazone. LXRα knockdown by siRNA (si-LXRα) significantly promoted the HCC827-GR and PC9-GR cells proliferation, whereas incubation efatutazone with si-LXRα restored the proliferation ability compared with the control group. In addition, combination of efatutazone and LXRα agonist T0901317 showed a synergistic therapeutic effect on lung adenocarcinoma cell proliferation and PPAR gamma, LXR A and ABCA1 protein expression. These results indicate that efatutazone could inhibit the cells proliferation of HCC827-GR and PC9-GR through PPARγ/LXRα/ABCA1 pathway, and synergistic therapeutic effect is achieved when combined with T0901317. Show less
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) act as transmembrane molecular sensors of neurotransmitters, hormones, nutrients, and metabolites. Because unmyelinated vagal afferents richly innervate the gastroi Show more
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) act as transmembrane molecular sensors of neurotransmitters, hormones, nutrients, and metabolites. Because unmyelinated vagal afferents richly innervate the gastrointestinal mucosa, gut-derived molecules may directly modulate the activity of vagal afferents through GPCRs. However, the types of GPCRs expressed in vagal afferents are largely unknown. Here, we determined the expression profile of all GPCRs expressed in vagal afferents of the mouse, with a special emphasis on those innervating the gastrointestinal tract. Using a combination of high-throughput quantitative PCR, RNA sequencing, and in situ hybridization, we systematically quantified GPCRs expressed in vagal unmyelinated Na GPCRs for gut hormones that were the most enriched in Na Overall, this study provides a comprehensive description of GPCR-dependent sensing mechanisms in vagal afferents, including novel coexpression patterns, and conceivably coaction of key receptors for gut-derived molecules involved in gut-brain communication. Show less
FADS1 gene encodes delta 5 desaturase, a rate-limiting enzyme in the metabolism of n-3 and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Minor alleles of FADS1 locus polymorphisms are associated with reduc Show more
FADS1 gene encodes delta 5 desaturase, a rate-limiting enzyme in the metabolism of n-3 and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Minor alleles of FADS1 locus polymorphisms are associated with reduced FADS1 expression and intra-hepatic fat accumulation. However, the relationship between FADS1 expression and pediatric nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) risk remains to be explored. We analyzed FADS1 transcription levels and their association with intra-hepatic fat and histology in children, and we performed pathway enrichment analysis on transcriptomic profiles associated with FADS1 polymorphisms. We also evaluated the weight of FADS1 alleles on the response to combined docosahexaenoic acid, choline, and vitamin E (DHA-CHO-VE) treatment. FADS1 mRNA level was significantly and inversely associated with intra-hepatic fat (p = 0.004), degree of steatosis (p = 0.03), fibrosis (p = 0.05), and NASH (p = 0.008) among pediatric livers. Transcriptomics demonstrated a significant enrichment of a number of pathways strongly related to NAFLD (e.g., liver damage, fibrosis, and hepatic stellate cell activation). Compared to children who are common allele homozygotes, children with FADS1 minor alleles had a greater reduction in steatosis, fibrosis, and NAFLD activity score after DHA-CHO-VE. This study suggests that decreased FADS1 expression may be associated with NAFLD in children but an increased response to DHA-CHO-VE. Show less
Anacetrapib is a cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) inhibitor being developed for the treatment of mixed dyslipidemia. The aim of the study was to evaluate the pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic, Show more
Anacetrapib is a cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) inhibitor being developed for the treatment of mixed dyslipidemia. The aim of the study was to evaluate the pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic, and safety characteristics of anacetrapib following single doses in healthy, young Japanese men. In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, 3-panel, single-rising-dose study, 6 healthy young Japanese male or white male subjects (aged 19 to 44 years) received single oral doses of 5 to 500 mg anacetrapib, and 2 received placebo. Plasma and urine drug concentrations were measured 0-168 hours postdose, and plasma CETP inhibition was measured 0-24 hours postdose. Urinary anacetrapib levels were all below quantitation limits. Plasma concentrations of anacetrapib increased approximately less than dose-proportionally. Consumption of a traditional Japanese breakfast prior to dosing increased the plasma pharmacokinetics of anacetrapib in Japanese subjects compared with fasted conditions, to a similar extent as in white subjects. CETP activity measured over 0-24 hours postdose resulted in significant inhibition. Anacetrapib was generally well tolerated, and there were no serious adverse experiences. No clinically meaningful differences in PK and CETP inhibition parameters were found between Japanese and white subjects. Show less
We aimed at exploring the positive feedback loop in eutopic and ectopic endometrial glandular epithelial cells (EuECs and EECs) in endometriosis. Normal epithelial cells (NECs), EuECs and EECs were tr Show more
We aimed at exploring the positive feedback loop in eutopic and ectopic endometrial glandular epithelial cells (EuECs and EECs) in endometriosis. Normal epithelial cells (NECs), EuECs and EECs were treated with fibroblast growth factor (FGF)2, FGF2 neutralizing antibody, mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) inhibitors U0126 and PD98059. FGF2 protein level was detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The expressions of FGF2, FGF receptor 1 (FGFR1), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2/pERK1/2 and Sproutys (SPRYs) (Sprouty1, Sprouty2, Sprouty4) and dual specificity phosphatase 6 (DUSP6) were detected by Western blot. The mRNA levels of FGF2, FGFR1 (FGF receptor 1), SPRYs (Sprouty1, Sprouty2, Sprouty4) and DUSP6 mRNA were detected by RT-PCR. Among treatment groups, the content of FGF2 in EuECs and EECs was significantly higher than that in NECs (p < 0.05). The mRNA and protein levels of FGF2, FGFR1, SPRYs (Sprouty1, Sprouty2, Sprouty4) and DUSP6 in EuECs and EECs were increased after adding FGF2 (p < 0.05), but decreased after adding FGF2 neutralizing antibody, no significant change was found in NECs (p > 0.05). The inhibitory effect of PD9805 on NECs was not significantly different from that of U0126 (p > 0.05); however, the inhibitory effects of PD9805 on EuECs and EECs were significantly lower than those of U0126 (p< 0.05). The positive feedback loop existed in EuECs and EECs, but maybe not in NECs. The results may provide the guideline to treat endometriosis patients. Show less
Craniofacial defects can cause morbidness. Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) have shown great promise for osteogeneration and vascularization; therefore cocultures of differentiated ADSCs are explore Show more
Craniofacial defects can cause morbidness. Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) have shown great promise for osteogeneration and vascularization; therefore cocultures of differentiated ADSCs are explored to increase bone and vessel formation. In this study, ADSCs were induced into osteogenic ADSCs (os-ADSCs) and endothelial ADSCs (endo-ADSCs) cells, which were then cocultured in variable proportions (os-ADSCs/endo-ADSCs = 2:1, 1:1, 1:2). The os-ADSCs in a ratio of 1:1 expressed more ALP, RUNX2 and COL-I, whereas VEGF, vWF and CD31 were upregulated in the endo-ADSCs of this group. Next generation RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was performed to evaluate the molecular mechanisms of cocultured ADSCs. The os-ADSCs and endo-ADSCs interacted with each other during osteogenic and angiogenic differentiation, especially at the ratio of 1:1, and were regulated by vascular-related genes, cell-mediated genes, bone-related genes and the transforming growth factor β signaling pathway (TGF-β), mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway (MAPK) and wnt signaling pathway (Wnt). Angptl4, apoe, mmp3, bmp6, mmp13 and fgf18 were detected to be up-regulated, and cxcl12 and wnt5a were down-regulated. The results showed that the gene expression levels were consistent with that in RNA-seq. The cells were then seeded into self-assembling peptide RADA16-I scaffolds as cocultures (1:1) and monocultures (ADSCs, os-ADSCs, endo-ADSCs). The results showed that the cells of all groups grew and proliferated well on the scaffolds, and the cocultured group exhibited better osteogeneration and vascularization. In conclusion, cocultured os-ADSCs and endo-ADSCs at the ratio of 1:1 showed strong osteogenic and angiogenic differentiation. There is a great potential for osteogenesis and vascularization by 3D culturing cells in a 1:1 ratio in self-assembling peptide RADA16-I scaffolds, which requires evaluation for bone regeneration in vivo. Show less
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a highly prevalent mental disorder affecting millions of people worldwide. However, a clear causative etiology of MDD remains unknown. In this study, we aimed to ide Show more
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a highly prevalent mental disorder affecting millions of people worldwide. However, a clear causative etiology of MDD remains unknown. In this study, we aimed to identify critical protein alterations in plasma from patients with MDD and integrate our proteomics and previous metabolomics data to reveal significantly perturbed pathways in MDD. An isobaric tag for relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ)-based quantitative proteomics approach was conducted to compare plasma protein expression between patients with depression and healthy controls (CON). For integrative analysis, Ingenuity Pathway Analysis software was used to analyze proteomics and metabolomics data and identify potential relationships among the differential proteins and metabolites. A total of 74 proteins were significantly changed in patients with depression compared with those in healthy CON. Bioinformatics analysis of differential proteins revealed significant alterations in lipid transport and metabolic function, including apolipoproteins (APOE, APOC4 and APOA5), and the serine protease inhibitor. According to canonical pathway analysis, the top five statistically significant pathways were related to lipid transport, inflammation and immunity. Causal network analysis by integrating differential proteins and metabolites suggested that the disturbance of phospholipid metabolism might promote the inflammation in the central nervous system. Show less
Blood lipids are well-known risk factors for coronary heart disease (CHD). The aim of this study was to explore the association between 17 lipid-related gene polymorphisms and CHD. The current study e Show more
Blood lipids are well-known risk factors for coronary heart disease (CHD). The aim of this study was to explore the association between 17 lipid-related gene polymorphisms and CHD. The current study examined with 784 CHD cases and 739 non-CHD controls. Genotyping was performed on the MassARRAY iPLEX® assay platform. Our analyses revealed a significant association of APOE rs7259620 with CHD (genotype: χ2=6.353, df=2, p=0.042; allele: χ2=5.05, df=1, p=0.025; recessive model: χ2=5.57, df=1, p=0.018). A further gender-based subgroup analysis revealed significant associations of APOE rs7259620 and PPAP2B rs72664392 with CHD in males (genotype: χ2=8.379, df=2, p=0.015; allele: χ2=5.190, df=1, p=0.023; recessive model: χ2=19.3, df=1, p<0.0001) and females (genotype: χ2=9.878, df=2, p=0.007), respectively. Subsequent breakdown analysis by age showed that CETP rs4783961, MLXIPL rs35493868, and PON2 rs12704796 were significantly associated with CHD among individuals younger than 55 years of age (CETP rs4783961: χ2=8.966, df=1, p=0.011 by genotype; MLXIPL rs35493868: χ2=4.87, df=1, p=0.027 by allele; χ2=4.88, df=1, p=0.027 by dominant model; PON2 rs12704796: χ2=6.511, df=2, p=0.039 by genotype; χ2=6.210, df=1, p=0.013 by allele; χ2=5.03, df=1, p=0.025 by dominant model). Significant allelic association was observed between LEPR rs656451 and CHD among individuals older than 65 years of age (χ2=4.410, df=1, p=0.036). Our study revealed significant associations of APOE, PPAP2B, CETP, MLXIPL, PON2, and LEPR gene polymorphisms with CHD among the Han Chinese. Show less
Hey2 gene mutations in both humans and mice have been associated with multiple cardiac defects. However, the currently reported localization of Hey2 in the ventricular compact zone cannot explain the Show more
Hey2 gene mutations in both humans and mice have been associated with multiple cardiac defects. However, the currently reported localization of Hey2 in the ventricular compact zone cannot explain the wide variety of cardiac defects. Furthermore, it was reported that, in contrast to other organs, Notch doesn't regulate Hey2 in the heart. To determine the expression pattern and the regulation of Hey2, we used novel methods including RNAscope and a Hey2 Show less
Zijie Su, Jiaxing Song, Zhongyuan Wang+10 more · 2018 · Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America · National Academy of Sciences · added 2026-04-24
Cholecystokinin (CCK) and apolipoprotein A-IV (ApoA-IV) are gastrointestinal peptides that play an important role in controlling energy homeostasis. Lymphatic ApoA-IV and plasma CCK secretion are medi Show more
Cholecystokinin (CCK) and apolipoprotein A-IV (ApoA-IV) are gastrointestinal peptides that play an important role in controlling energy homeostasis. Lymphatic ApoA-IV and plasma CCK secretion are mediated via a chylomicron formation-dependent pathway during a dietary lipid infusion. Given their similar roles as satiating proteins, the present study examines how the two peptides interact in their function. Specifically, this study sought to understand how ApoA-IV regulates CCK secretion. For this purpose, Cck gene expression in the small intestines of ApoA-IV knockout (ApoA-IV-KO) and wild-type (WT) mice were compared under an array of feeding conditions. When fed with a chow or high-fat diet (HFD), basal levels of Cck transcripts were significantly reduced in the duodenum of ApoA-IV-KO mice compared to WT mice. Furthermore, after an oral gavage of a lipid mixture, Cck gene expression in the duodenum was significantly reduced in ApoA-IV-KO mice relative to the change seen in WT mice. To determine the mechanism by which ApoA-IV modulates Cck gene expression, STC-1 cells were transfected with predesigned mouse lysophosphatidic acid receptor 5 (LPAR5) small interfering RNA (siRNA) to knockdown Lpar5 gene expression. In this in-vitro study, mouse recombinant ApoA-IV protein increased Cck gene expression in enteroendocrine STC-1 cells and stimulated CCK release from the STC-1 cells. However, the levels of CCK protein and Cck expression were attenuated when Lpar5 was knocked down in the STC-1 cells. Together these observations suggest that dietary lipid-induced ApoA-IV is associated with Cck synthesis in the duodenum and that ApoA-IV protein directly enhances CCK release through the activation of a LPAR5-dependent pathway. Show less
Helicase DHX36 plays essential roles in cell development and differentiation at least partially by resolving G-quadruplex (G4) structures. Here we report crystal structures of the Drosophila homolog o Show more
Helicase DHX36 plays essential roles in cell development and differentiation at least partially by resolving G-quadruplex (G4) structures. Here we report crystal structures of the Drosophila homolog of DHX36 (DmDHX36) in complex with RNA and a series of DNAs. By combining structural, small-angle X-ray scattering, molecular dynamics simulation, and single-molecule fluorescence studies, we revealed that positively charged amino acids in RecA2 and OB-like domains constitute an elaborate structural pocket at the nucleic acid entrance, in which negatively charged G4 DNA is tightly bound and partially destabilized. The G4 DNA is then completely unfolded through the 3'-5' translocation activity of the helicase. Furthermore, crystal structures and DNA binding assays show that G-rich DNA is preferentially recognized and in the presence of ATP, specifically bound by DmDHX36, which may cooperatively enhance the G-rich DNA translocation and G4 unfolding. On the basis of these results, a conceptual G4 DNA-resolving mechanism is proposed. Show less
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common primary tumor of the liver, has a poor prognosis and shows rapid progression. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in carcinogenesis and tumor progre Show more
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common primary tumor of the liver, has a poor prognosis and shows rapid progression. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in carcinogenesis and tumor progression. Regulators of G-protein signaling (RGS) are critical for defining G-protein-dependent signal fidelity. RGS17 plays an important role in the regulation of cancer cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Here, we showed that miR-199 was downregulated in a hepatocarcinoma cell line. Overexpression of miR-199 significantly suppressed HCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro. RGS17 overexpression promoted HCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, and reversed the miR-199 mediated inhibition of proliferation, migration, and invasion. Dual-fluorescence reporter experiments confirmed that miR-199 downregulated RGS17 by direct interaction with the 3'-UTR of RGS17 mRNA. In vivo studies showed that miR-199 overexpression significantly inhibited the growth of tumors. Taken together, the results suggested that miR-199 inhibited tumor growth and metastasis by targeting RGS17. Show less
The postsynaptic density proteins 95 (PSD95) and 93 (PSD93) belong to a family of scaffolding proteins, the membrane-associated guanylate kinases (MAGUKs), which are highly enriched in synapses and re Show more
The postsynaptic density proteins 95 (PSD95) and 93 (PSD93) belong to a family of scaffolding proteins, the membrane-associated guanylate kinases (MAGUKs), which are highly enriched in synapses and responsible for organizing the numerous protein complexes required for synaptic development and plasticity. Genetic studies have associated MAGUKs with diseases like autism and schizophrenia, but knockout mice show severe, complex defects with difficult-to-interpret behavioral abnormalities due to major motor dysfunction which is atypical for psychiatric phenotypes. Therefore, rather than studying loss-of-function mutants, we comprehensively investigated the behavioral consequences of reduced PSD95 expression, using heterozygous PSD95 knockout mice (PSD95 Show less
This study was design to investigate preventive function of Tongxinluo (TXL) capsule on micro vascular function and endothelial survival in rats model of intestine ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. W Show more
This study was design to investigate preventive function of Tongxinluo (TXL) capsule on micro vascular function and endothelial survival in rats model of intestine ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. We randomly divided fifty male Sprague-Dawley rats into Sham group, I/R group, TXL0.4+I/R group, TXL0.8+I/R group, TXL1.6+I/R group (10 rats each). Rat intestine I/R injury was carried out using a model of acute superior mesenteric artery occlusion with 30 min ischemia followed by 60 min reperfusion. The distribution of endothelial apoptosis in intestine was determined by CD31+TUNEL immunofluorescent double staining analysis. VE-Cadherin, ANGPTL4, HMGB1 and NF-κB were determined by immunohistochemical analysis. I/R induced massively endothelial cell apoptosis, accompanied with reduced expression of adherens junction protein VE-Cadherin and up regulation of inflammatory mediator HMGB1 and NF-κB. TXL pretreatment groups (TXL0.4+I/R, TXL0.8+I/R and TXL1.6+I/R group) significantly attenuated endothelial cell apoptosis with a dose-dependent effect. TXL pretreatment could maintain the expression of VE-Cadherin and promote the expression of ANGPTL4 which help to maintain endothelial integrity. TXL pretreatment also exert great influence in inhibiting HMGB1 expression and NF-κB expression induced by I/R. It could be concluded from this study that micro vascular dysfunction and endothelial damage play a causal role in rat intestine I/R injury. TXL pretreatment could significantly prevent the I/R induced pathology of endothelial apoptosis, micro vascular integrity disruption and inflammatory reaction. Show less