Dendrobium nobile Lindl. (DNL) is a traditional Chinese ethnobotanical herb. Dendrobine (DNE) has been designated as a quality indicator for DNL in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia. DNE exhibits various phar Show more
Dendrobium nobile Lindl. (DNL) is a traditional Chinese ethnobotanical herb. Dendrobine (DNE) has been designated as a quality indicator for DNL in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia. DNE exhibits various pharmacological activities, including the reduction of blood lipids, regulation of blood sugar levels, as well as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The objective of this study is to explore the impact of DNE on lipid degeneration in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) liver cells and elucidate its specific mechanism. The findings aim to offer theoretical support for the development of drugs related to DNL. We utilized male C57BL/6J mice, aged 6 weeks old, to establish a NAFLD model. This model allowed us to assess the impact of DNE on liver pathology and lipid levels in NAFLD mice. We investigated the mechanism of DNE's regulation of lipid metabolism through RNA-seq analysis. Furthermore, a NAFLD model was established using HepG2 cells to further evaluate the impact of DNE on the pathological changes of NAFLD liver cells. The potential mechanism of DNE's improvement was rapidly elucidated using HT-qPCR technology. These results were subsequently validated using mouse liver samples. Following the in vitro activation or inhibition of PPARα function, we observed changes in DNE's ability to ameliorate pathological changes in NAFLD hepatocytes. This mechanism was further verified through RT-qPCR and Western blot analysis. DNE demonstrated a capacity to enhance serum TC, TG, and liver TG levels in mice, concurrently mitigating liver lipid degeneration. RNA-seq analysis unveiled that DNE primarily modulates the expression of genes related to metabolic pathways in mouse liver. Utilizing HT-qPCR technology, it was observed that DNE markedly regulates the expression of genes associated with the PPAR signaling pathway in liver cells. Consistency was observed in the in vivo data, where DNE significantly up-regulated the expression of PPARα mRNA and its protein level in mouse liver. Additionally, the expression of fatty acid metabolism-related genes (ACOX1, CPT2, HMGCS2, LPL), regulated by PPARα, was significantly elevated following DNE treatment. In vitro experiments further demonstrated that DNE notably ameliorated lipid deposition, peroxidation, and inflammation levels in NAFLD hepatocytes, particularly when administered in conjunction with fenofibrate. Notably, the PPARα inhibitor GW6471 attenuated these effects of DNE. In summary, DNE exerts its influence on the expression of genes associated with downstream fat metabolism by regulating PPARα. This regulatory mechanism enhances liver lipid metabolism, mitigates lipid degeneration in hepatocytes, and ultimately ameliorates the pathological changes in NAFLD hepatocytes. Show less
The endogenous metabolism of polyunsaturated fatty acids is regulated by the fatty acid desaturase (FADS) gene cluster and is strongly associated with diseases such as atherosclerosis, dyslipidemia, a Show more
The endogenous metabolism of polyunsaturated fatty acids is regulated by the fatty acid desaturase (FADS) gene cluster and is strongly associated with diseases such as atherosclerosis, dyslipidemia, and type 2 diabetes. However, the association between FADS and atherosclerosis remains a subject of debate. In this study, we specifically investigated the physiological role of Δ-5 fatty acid desaturase (FADS1) in aortic and peripheral vessel (namely, the femoral artery) atherosclerosis by targeting the selective knockdown of hepatic Knockdown of hepatic Our study demonstrated that knockdown of hepatic Show less
Environmental contaminants (ECs) are increasingly recognized as crucial drivers of dyslipidemia and cardiovascular disease (CVD), but the comprehensive impact spectrum and interlinking mechanisms rema Show more
Environmental contaminants (ECs) are increasingly recognized as crucial drivers of dyslipidemia and cardiovascular disease (CVD), but the comprehensive impact spectrum and interlinking mechanisms remain uncertain. We aimed to systematically evaluate the association between exposure to 80 ECs across seven divergent categories and markers of dyslipidemia and investigate their underpinning biomolecular mechanisms via an unbiased integrative approach of internal chemical exposome and multi-omics. A longitudinal study involving 76 healthy older adults was conducted in Jinan, China, and participants were followed five times from 10 September 2018 to 19 January 2019 in 1-month intervals. A broad spectrum of seven chemical categories covering the prototypes and metabolites of 102 ECs in serum or urine as well as six serum dyslipidemia markers [total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, apolipoprotein (Apo)A1, ApoB, and ApoE4] were measured. Multi-omics, including the blood transcriptome, serum/urine metabolome, and serum lipidome, were profiled concurrently. Exposome-wide association study and the deletion/substitution/addition algorithms were applied to explore the associations between 80 EC exposures detection frequency Eight main ECs [1-naphthalene, 1-pyrene, 2-fluorene, dibutyl phosphate, tri-phenyl phosphate, mono-(2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl) phthalate, chromium, and vanadium] were significantly associated with most dyslipidemia markers. Multi-omics indicated that the associations were mediated by endogenous biomolecules and pathways, primarily pertinent to CVD, inflammation, and metabolism. Clinical measures of cytokines and electrocardiograms further cross-validated the association of these exogenous ECs with systemic inflammation and cardiac function, demonstrating their potential mechanisms in driving dyslipidemia pathogenesis. It is imperative to prioritize mitigating exposure to these ECs in the primary prevention and control of the dyslipidemia epidemic. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP13864. Show less
Given the pressing clinical problem of making a decision in diagnosis for subjects with pulmonary nodules, we aimed to discover novel plasma protein biomarkers for lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and benig Show more
Given the pressing clinical problem of making a decision in diagnosis for subjects with pulmonary nodules, we aimed to discover novel plasma protein biomarkers for lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and benign pulmonary nodules (BPNs) and then develop an integrative multianalytical model to guide the clinical management of LUAD and BPN patients. Through label-free quantitative plasma proteomic analysis (data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD046731), 12 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in LUAD and BPN were screened. The diagnostic abilities of DEPs were validated in two independent validation cohorts. The results showed that the levels of three candidate proteins (PRDX2, PON1, and APOC3) were lower in the plasma of LUAD than in BPN. The three candidate proteins were combined with three promising computed tomography indicators (spiculation, vascular notch sign, and lobulation) and three traditional markers (CEA, CA125, and CYFRA21-1) to construct an integrative multianalytical model, which was effective in distinguishing LUAD from BPN, with an AUC of 0.904, a sensitivity of 81.44%, and a specificity of 90.14%. Moreover, the model possessed impressive diagnostic performance between early LUADs and BPNs, with the AUC, sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of 0.868, 65.63%, 90.14%, and 82.52%, respectively. This model may be a useful auxiliary diagnostic tool for LUAD and BPN by achieving a better balance of sensitivity and specificity. Show less
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a respiratory disorder of obscure etiology and limited treatment options, possibly linked to dysregulation in lipid metabolism. While several observational studi Show more
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a respiratory disorder of obscure etiology and limited treatment options, possibly linked to dysregulation in lipid metabolism. While several observational studies suggest that lipid-lowering agents may decrease the risk of IPF, the evidence is inconsistent. The present Mendelian randomization (MR) study aims to determine the association between circulating lipid traits and IPF and to assess the potential influence of lipid-modifying medications for IPF. Summary statistics of 5 lipid traits (high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglyceride, apolipoprotein A, and apolipoprotein B) and IPF were sourced from the UK Biobank and FinnGen Project Round 10. The study's focus on lipid-regulatory genes encompassed PCSK9, NPC1L1, ABCG5, ABCG8, HMGCR, APOB, LDLR, CETP, ANGPTL3, APOC3, LPL, and PPARA. The primary effect estimates were determined using the inverse-variance-weighted method, with additional analyses employing the contamination mixture method, robust adjusted profile score, the weighted median, weighted mode methods, and MR-Egger. Summary-data-based Mendelian randomization (SMR) was used to confirm significant lipid-modifying drug targets, leveraging data on expressed quantitative trait loci in relevant tissues. Sensitivity analyses included assessments of heterogeneity, horizontal pleiotropy, and leave-one-out methods. There was no significant effect of blood lipid traits on IPF risk (all P>0.05). Drug-target MR analysis indicated that genetic mimicry for inhibitor of NPC1L1, PCSK9, ABCG5, ABCG8, and APOC3 were associated with increased IPF risks, with odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) as follows: 2.74 (1.05-7.12, P = 0.039), 1.36 (1.02-1.82, P = 0.037), 1.66 (1.12-2.45, P = 0.011), 1.68 (1.14-2.48, P = 0.009), and 1.42 (1.20-1.67, P = 3.17×10 Serum lipid traits did not significantly affect the risk of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Drug targets MR studies examining 12 lipid-modifying drugs indicated that PCSK9 inhibitors could dramatically increase IPF risk, a mechanism that may differ from their lipid-lowering actions and thus warrants further investigation. Show less
Non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) is a major contributor of male infertility. Herein, we used existing datasets to identify novel biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of NOA, which could have gr Show more
Non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) is a major contributor of male infertility. Herein, we used existing datasets to identify novel biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of NOA, which could have great significance in the field of male infertility. NOA datasets were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. CIBERSORT was utilized to analyze the distributions of 22 immune cell populations. Hub genes were identified by applying weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), machine learning methods, and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis. The expression of hub genes was verified in external datasets and was assessed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was applied to explore the important functions and pathways of hub genes. The mRNA-microRNA (miRNA)-transcription factors (TFs) regulatory network and potential drugs were predicted based on hub genes. Single-cell RNA sequencing data from the testes of patients with NOA were applied for analyzing the distribution of hub genes in single-cell clusters. Furthermore, testis tissue samples were obtained from patients with NOA and obstructive azoospermia (OA) who underwent testicular biopsy. RT-PCR and Western blot were used to validate hub gene expression. Two immune-related oxidative stress hub genes ( It appears that Show less
Chenchen Yuan, Yao Xu, Guotao Lu+12 more · 2024 · Molecular therapy : the journal of the American Society of Gene Therapy · Elsevier · added 2026-04-24
GPIHBP1 plays an important role in the hydrolysis of triglyceride (TG) lipoproteins by lipoprotein lipases (LPLs). However, Gpihbp1 knockout mice did not develop hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) during the Show more
GPIHBP1 plays an important role in the hydrolysis of triglyceride (TG) lipoproteins by lipoprotein lipases (LPLs). However, Gpihbp1 knockout mice did not develop hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) during the suckling period but developed severe HTG after weaning on a chow diet. It has been postulated that LPL expression in the liver of suckling mice may be involved. To determine whether hepatic LPL expression could correct severe HTG in Gpihbp1 deficiency, liver-targeted LPL expression was achieved via intravenous administration of the adeno-associated virus (AAV)-human LPL gene, and the effects of AAV-LPL on HTG and HTG-related acute pancreatitis (HTG-AP) were observed. Suckling Gpihbp1 Show less
One of the pathological characteristics of obesity is fat accumulation of skeletal muscles (SKM) and the myocardium, involving mechanisms of insulin resistance and abnormal lipid metabolism. Apolipopr Show more
One of the pathological characteristics of obesity is fat accumulation of skeletal muscles (SKM) and the myocardium, involving mechanisms of insulin resistance and abnormal lipid metabolism. Apolipoprotein A-IV (ApoA-IV) is an essential gene in both glucose and lipid metabolisms. Using high-fat diet (HFD) induced obese In stable obese animal models, we find ApoA-IV-knockout mice show elevated TG content, enhanced expression of lipogenic enzymes and diminished phosphorylated AKT in SKM and the myocardium, but both stable hepatic expression of AAV- We find that ApoA-IV reduces fat accumulation by suppressing lipogenesis and improves glucose uptake in SKM and the myocardium by regulating the PI3K-AKT pathway. Show less
With the rapid progress in deciphering the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD), it has been widely accepted that the accumulation of misfolded amyloid β (Aβ) in the brain could cause the neurodeg Show more
With the rapid progress in deciphering the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD), it has been widely accepted that the accumulation of misfolded amyloid β (Aβ) in the brain could cause the neurodegeneration in AD. Although much evidence demonstrates the neurotoxicity of Aβ, the role of Aβ in the nervous system are complex. However, more comprehensive studies are needed to understand the physiological effect of Aβ Show less
Age at first egg (AFE) has consistently garnered interest as a crucial reproductive indicator within poultry production. Previous studies have elucidated the involvement of the hypothalamic-pituitary- Show more
Age at first egg (AFE) has consistently garnered interest as a crucial reproductive indicator within poultry production. Previous studies have elucidated the involvement of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) and hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axes in regulating poultry sexual maturity. Concurrently, there was evidence suggesting a potential co-regulatory relationship between these 2 axes. However, as of now, no comprehensive exploration of the key pathways and genes responsible for the crosstalk between the HPO and HPT axes in the regulation of AFE has been reported. In this study, we conducted a comparative analysis of morphological differences and performed transcriptomic analysis on the hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid, and ovarian stroma between normal laying group (NG) and abnormal laying group (AG). Morphological results showed that the thyroid index difference (D-) value (thyroid index D-value=right thyroid index-left thyroid index) was significantly (P < 0.05) lower in the NG than in the AG, while the ovarian index was significantly (P < 0.01) higher in the NG than in the AG. Furthermore, between NG and AG, we identified 99, 415, 167, and 1182 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid, and ovarian stroma, respectively. Gene ontology (GO) analysis highlighted that DEGs from 4 tissues were predominantly enriched in the "biological processes" category. Additionally, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis revealed that 16, 14, 3, and 26 KEGG pathways were significantly enriched (P < 0.05) in the hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid, and ovarian stroma. The MAPK signaling pathway emerged as the sole enriched pathway across all 4 tissues. Employing an integrated analysis of the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and correlation analysis, we found GREB1 emerged as a pivotal component within the HPO axis to regulate estrogen-related signaling in the HPT axis, meanwhile, the HPT axis influenced ovarian development by regulating thyroid hormone-related signaling mainly through OPN5. Then, 10 potential candidate genes were identified, namely IGF1, JUN, ERBB4, KDR, PGF, FGFR1, GREB1, OPN5, DIO3, and THRB. These findings establish a foundation for elucidating the physiological and genetic mechanisms by which the HPO and HPT axes co-regulate goose AFE. Show less
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a complex neurodegenerative disorder with significant genetic underpinnings, yet effective treatments remain elusive. To bridge the gap between genetic discoveries and ther Show more
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a complex neurodegenerative disorder with significant genetic underpinnings, yet effective treatments remain elusive. To bridge the gap between genetic discoveries and therapeutic development, we conducted a penalized regression based proteome-wide association study (PWAS) in both European and African American populations. Using publicly available GWAS summary statistics and the BLISS model, we identified 37 protein-coding genes significantly associated with AD risk, including APOE and BCAM in both populations. We further applied the GREP model to prioritize repositionable drugs targeting these genes, identifying 30 significant disease-target-drug pairs. Notably, Ramipril and BAY 85-8501 emerged as top candidates for AD treatment in European and African American populations, respectively. These findings highlight ancestry-specific drug targets, demonstrating the importance of diverse genetic studies in AD research and providing novel avenues for therapeutic intervention. Show less
Apolipoprotein A4 (APOA4) is synthesized by the small intestine in response to dietary lipids. Chronic exposure to a high-fat diet (HFD) desensitizes lipid-induced APOA4 production and attenuates brow Show more
Apolipoprotein A4 (APOA4) is synthesized by the small intestine in response to dietary lipids. Chronic exposure to a high-fat diet (HFD) desensitizes lipid-induced APOA4 production and attenuates brown adipose tissue (BAT) thermogenesis. We hypothesized that exogenous APOA4 could increase BAT thermogenesis and energy expenditure in HFD-fed mice, resulting in decreased obesity and improved glucose tolerance. BAT and inguinal white adipose tissue (IWAT) thermogenesis, body composition, energy intake and expenditure, and locomotor activity were measured using an infrared camera, immunoblots, quantitative magnetic resonance imaging, and a comprehensive lab animal monitoring system. An intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test and hepatic lipid accumulation and steatosis were assayed. Mice receiving continuous infusion of APOA4 for the last 4 weeks of 10 weeks of HFD feeding gained no additional body weight and had reduced fat mass but enhanced BAT and IWAT thermogenesis and energy expenditure, despite unaltered food intake and locomotor activity. Additionally, APOA4 infusion elevated fatty acid β oxidation; decreased lipogenesis, lipid accumulation, and steatosis in liver; and improved glucose tolerance. Maintenance of plasma APOA4 via exogenous APOA4 protein parallels elevation of BAT and IWAT thermogenesis, hepatic fatty acid β oxidation, and overall energy expenditure, with subsequent prevention of additional weight gain in HFD-fed obese mice. Show less
In vitro cell culturing witnessed its applications in scientific research and industrial activities. Attempts to shorten the doubling time of cultured cells have never ceased. In plants, auxin is appl Show more
In vitro cell culturing witnessed its applications in scientific research and industrial activities. Attempts to shorten the doubling time of cultured cells have never ceased. In plants, auxin is applied to promote plant growth, the synthetic derivative 1-Naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) is a good example. Despite the auxin's naturally occurring receptors are not present in mammalian cells, studies suggested they may affect cell culturing. Yet the effects and mechanisms are still unclear. Here, an up to 2-fold increase in the yield of in vitro cultured human cells is observed. Different types of human cell lines and primary cells are tested and found that NAA is effective in all the cells tested. The PI staining followed by FACS suggested that NAA do not affect the cell cycling. Apoptosis-specific dye staining analysis implicated that NAA rescued cell death. Further bulk RNA sequencing is done and it is identified that the lipid metabolism-engaging and anti-apoptosis gene, ANGPTL4, is enhanced in expression upon NAA treatment. Studies on ANGPTL4 knockout cells indicated that ANGPTL4 is required for NAA-mediated response. Thus, the data identified a beneficial role of NAA in human cell culturing and highlighted its potency in in vitro cell culturing. Show less
The PICALM::MLLT10 fusion is a rare but recurrent cytogenetic abnormality in acute leukemia, with limited clinicopathologic and outcome data available. Herein, we analyzed 156 acute leukemia patients Show more
The PICALM::MLLT10 fusion is a rare but recurrent cytogenetic abnormality in acute leukemia, with limited clinicopathologic and outcome data available. Herein, we analyzed 156 acute leukemia patients with PICALM::MLLT10 fusion, including 12 patients from our institutions and 144 patients from the literature. The PICALM::MLLT10 fusion preferentially manifested in pediatric and young adult patients, with a median age of 24 years. T-lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma (T-ALL) constituted 65% of cases, acute myeloid leukemia (AML) 27%, and acute leukemia of ambiguous lineage (ALAL) 8%. About half of T-ALL were classified as an early T-precursor (ETP)-ALL. In our institutions' cohort, mediastinum was the most common extramedullary site of involvement. Eight of 12 patients were diagnosed with T-ALL exhibiting a pro-/pre-T stage phenotype (CD4/CD8-double negative, CD7-positive), and frequent CD79a expression. NGS revealed pathogenic mutations in 5 of 6 tested cases, including NOTCH1, and genes in RAS and JAK-STAT pathways and epigenetic modifiers. Of 138 cases with follow-up, pediatric patients (<18 years) had 5-year overall survival (OS) of 71%, significantly better than adults at 33%. The 5-year OS for AML patients was 25%, notably shorter than T-ALL patients at 54%; this distinction was observed in both pediatric and adult populations. Furthermore, adult but not pediatric ETP-ALL patients demonstrated inferior survival compared to non-ETP-ALL patients. Neither karyotype complexity nor transplant status had a discernible impact on OS. In conclusion, PICALM::MLLT10 fusion is most commonly seen in T-ALL patients, particularly those with an ETP phenotype. AML and adult ETP-ALL patients had adverse prognosis. PICALM::MLTT10 fusion testing should be considered in T-ALL, AML, and ALAL patients. Show less
Anorectal malformations (ARMs) are congenital diseases that lead to postoperative fecal incontinence, constipation, and soiling, despite improvements in surgery; however, their pathological mechanisms Show more
Anorectal malformations (ARMs) are congenital diseases that lead to postoperative fecal incontinence, constipation, and soiling, despite improvements in surgery; however, their pathological mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we report the role of microRNA-141-3p in maintaining homeostasis between apoptosis and autophagy in the lumbosacral defecation center of fetal rats with ARMs. Elevated microRNA-141-3p expression inhibited YIN-YANG-1 expression by binding its 3' UTR, and repressed autophagy and triggered apoptosis simultaneously. Then, adenylate cyclase 3 was screened to be the downstream target gene of YIN-YANG-1 by chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing experiments, and Yin Yang 1 could positively activate the transcription of adenylate cyclase 3 by directly interacting with the motif GAGATGG and ATGG in its promoter. Intraamniotic microinjection of adeno-rno-microRNA-141-3p-sponge-GFP in fetal rats with ARMs on embryonic day 15 restored apoptosis-autophagy homeostasis. These findings reveal that microRNA-141-3p upregulation impaired homeostasis between apoptosis and autophagy by inhibiting the YIN-YANG-1/adenylate cyclase 3 axis, and that intraamniotic injection of anti-microRNA-141-3p helped maintain homeostasis in the lumbosacral defecation center of ARMs during embryogenesis. Show less
The objective of this study was to investigate the potential of salidroside (SAL) (a major active compound in The expression of HIF-1 SAL enhanced the expression of HIF-1 SAL promotes osteoclast proli Show more
The objective of this study was to investigate the potential of salidroside (SAL) (a major active compound in The expression of HIF-1 SAL enhanced the expression of HIF-1 SAL promotes osteoclast proliferation, differentiation and bone resorption through HIF-1 Show less
Atrial fibrillation is the most common clinical arrhythmia and may be due in part to metabolic stress. Atrial specific deletion of the master metabolic sensor, AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), ind Show more
Atrial fibrillation is the most common clinical arrhythmia and may be due in part to metabolic stress. Atrial specific deletion of the master metabolic sensor, AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), induces atrial remodeling culminating in atrial fibrillation in mice, implicating AMPK signaling in the maintenance of atrial electrical and structural homeostasis. However, atrial substrate preference for mitochondrial oxidation and the role of AMPK in regulating atrial metabolism are unknown. Here, using LC-MS/MS methodology combined with infusions of [ Show less
Adipose tissue mass is maintained by a balance between lipolysis and lipid storage. The contribution of adipose tissue lipogenesis to fat mass, especially in the setting of high-fat feeding, is consid Show more
Adipose tissue mass is maintained by a balance between lipolysis and lipid storage. The contribution of adipose tissue lipogenesis to fat mass, especially in the setting of high-fat feeding, is considered minor. Here we investigated the effect of adipose-specific inactivation of the peroxisomal lipid synthetic protein PexRAP on fatty acid synthase (FASN)-mediated lipogenesis and its impact on adiposity and metabolic homeostasis. To explore the role of PexRAP in adipose tissue, we metabolically phenotyped mice with adipose-specific knockout of PexRAP. Bulk RNA sequencing was used to determine transcriptomic responses to PexRAP deletion and Adipose-specific PexRAP deletion promoted diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance through activation of de novo lipogenesis. Mechanistically, PexRAP inactivation inhibited the flux of carbons to ethanolamine plasmalogens. This increased the nuclear PC/PE ratio and promoted cholesterol mislocalization, resulting in activation of liver X receptor (LXR), a nuclear receptor known to be activated by increased intracellular cholesterol. LXR activation led to increased expression of the phospholipid remodeling enzyme LPCAT3 and induced FASN-mediated lipogenesis, which promoted diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance. These studies reveal an unexpected role for peroxisome-derived lipids in regulating LXR-dependent lipogenesis and suggest that activation of lipogenesis, combined with dietary lipid overload, exacerbates obesity and metabolic dysregulation. Show less
This study aimed to investigate the clinicopathological characteristics, diagnostic indicators, and critical factors for the differential diagnosis of rosette-forming glioneuronal tumor (RGNT). This r Show more
This study aimed to investigate the clinicopathological characteristics, diagnostic indicators, and critical factors for the differential diagnosis of rosette-forming glioneuronal tumor (RGNT). This retrospective study included six surgically treated RGNT cases. We analyzed and summarized their clinical manifestations, radiological features, histological morphology, immunophenotype, and molecular genetic changes, supplemented with a literature review. The patients comprised four males and two females with a mean age of 35 years. The tumors were located in the cerebellum (two cases); the fourth ventricle, quadrigeminal cistern, and third ventricle (one case each); and the fourth ventricle and brainstem (one case). Clinical manifestations included headaches in four cases, left eyelid ptosis in one case, and one asymptomatic case only identified during physical examination. Microscopically, the tumor cells were uniform in size and were marked by rosette-like or pseudorosette-like structures around the neuropil and blood vessels. Immunohistochemistry revealed biphasic patterns. The central neuropil components of the rosette-like structures around the neuropil and the pseudorosette structures of the perivascular regions expressed Syn, while the cells surrounding the rosettes expressed Olig2 and not GFAP. GFAP and S-100 were expressed in the glial components but not in the rosette or pseudorosette regions. The Ki-67 proliferation index was typically low. Molecular genetic analysis showed that the main molecular changes involved FGFR1 mutation accompanied by PIK3R1 mutation. None of the patients received chemoradiotherapy postoperatively. Follow-up durations varied between 4 and 23 months with no recorded recurrence or metastasis. RGNT is a comparatively rare mixed glioneuronal tumor that occurs in the midline structures. Its morphology shows certain overlaps with other low-grade neuroepithelial tumors. Identifying the rosettes around the neuropil is critical for morphological diagnosis, and the molecular identification of FGFR1 mutations accompanied by PIK3R1 mutations can facilitate diagnosis. Show less
Even though the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect is applicable for the passive targeting of solid tumors, many nanodrugs have failed to achieve meaningful clinical outcomes due to the Show more
Even though the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect is applicable for the passive targeting of solid tumors, many nanodrugs have failed to achieve meaningful clinical outcomes due to the heterogeneity of EPR effect. Therefore, understanding the mechanism of the EPR effect is crucial to overcome the obstacles nanomedicines face in clinical translation. The aim of this study was to establish a reliable method to increase awareness of the critical influencing factors of nanoparticle (NP) transport into tumors based on the EPR effect using a combined radiogenomics and clinical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique and gene set pathway enrichment analysis. Employing poly(lactic- Show less
Developing multitargeted ligands as promising therapeutics for Alzheimer's disease (AD) has been considered important. Herein, a novel class of cinnamamide/ester-triazole hybrids with multifaceted eff Show more
Developing multitargeted ligands as promising therapeutics for Alzheimer's disease (AD) has been considered important. Herein, a novel class of cinnamamide/ester-triazole hybrids with multifaceted effects on AD was developed based on the multitarget-directed ligands strategy. Thirty-seven cinnamamide/ester-triazole hybrids were synthesized, with most exhibiting significant inhibitory activity against Aβ-induced toxicity at a single concentration in vitro. The most optimal hybrid compound 4j inhibited copper-induced Aβ toxicity in AD cells. its action was superior to that of donepezil and memantine. It also moderately inhibited intracellular AChE activity and presented favorable bioavailability and blood-brain barrier penetration with low toxicity in vivo. Of note, it ameliorated cognitive impairment, neuronal degeneration, and Aβ deposition in Aβ Show less
Lung cancer has a high morbidity and mortality among malignant tumors, and lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is the main type of lung cancer. In recent years, circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been confirmed to Show more
Lung cancer has a high morbidity and mortality among malignant tumors, and lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is the main type of lung cancer. In recent years, circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been confirmed to play an important role in the generation and development of human cancer. However, the specific role and mechanism of circ-NUP98 in LUAD are still unclear and need to be further investigated. Circ-NUP98, microRNA-188-3p (miR-188-3p), and chromobox homolog 1 (CBX1) levels were detected by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Cell-counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), 5-Ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) assay, flow cytometry, wound healing, and transwell assay were used to observe LUAD cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, invasion, and cell-cycle progression. Malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels were examined using special assay kits. CyclinD1, Bcl-2-related X protein (Bax), matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) protein, and CBX1 protein levels were determined using Western blot. The interaction between miR-188-3p and circ-NUP98 or CBX1 was identified by dual-luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay. In vivo efficacy of circ-NUP98 was evaluated in a xenograft tumor model. Besides, the expression of CBX1 and KI67 in the tumors was detected by immunohistochemical (IHC) assay. Circ-NUP98 and CBX1 expressions were upregulated in LUAD tissues and cells, and miR-188-3p was decreased. Downregulation of circ-NUP98 could inhibit the proliferation, migration, invasion, and oxidative stress, and promote apoptosis of LUAD cells. Mechanism experiments showed that circ-NUP98 acted as a sponge for miR-188-3p to increase CBX1 expression. Knockdown of circ-NUP98 could inhibit the growth of LUAD tumors in vivo. Circ-NUP98 might promote the malignant development of LUAD via the miR-188-3p/CBX1 axis, which might provide a potential new marker for early diagnosis of LUAD. Show less
Elevated circulating branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) are tightly linked to an increased risk in the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus. The rate limiting enzyme of BCAA catabolism branched-cha Show more
Elevated circulating branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) are tightly linked to an increased risk in the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus. The rate limiting enzyme of BCAA catabolism branched-chain α-ketoacid dehydrogenase (BCKDH) is phosphorylated at E1α subunit (BCKDHA) by its kinase (BCKDK) and inactivated. Here, the liver-specific BCKDK or BCKDHA knockout mice displayed normal glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity. However, knockout of BCKDK in the liver inhibited hepatic glucose production as well as the expression of key gluconeogenic enzymes. No abnormal gluconeogenesis was found in mice lacking hepatic BCKDHA. Consistent with the vivo results, BT2-mediated inhibition or genetic knockdown of BCKDK decreased hepatic glucose production and gluconeogenic gene expressions in primary mouse hepatocytes while BCKDK overexpression exhibited an opposite effect. Whereas, gluconeogenic gene expressions were not altered in BCKDHA-silenced hepatocytes. Mechanistically, BT2 treatment attenuated the interaction of cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) with CREB-binding protein and promoted FOXO1 protein degradation by increasing its ubiquitination. Our findings suggest that BCKDK regulates hepatic gluconeogenesis through CREB and FOXO1 signalings, independent of BCKDHA-mediated BCAA catabolism. Show less
Lipid metabolism disorders appear to play an important role in the ageing process, thus understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the association of ageing with elevated vulnerabi Show more
Lipid metabolism disorders appear to play an important role in the ageing process, thus understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the association of ageing with elevated vulnerability to lipid metabolism related diseases is crucial towards promoting quality of life in old age. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as crucial regulators of lipid metabolism, and some miRNAs have key roles in ageing. In this study, we investigated changes in liver lipid metabolism of ageing mice and the mechanisms of the altered expression of miRNAs in the ageing liver which contributes to the age-dependent increase in lipid synthesis. Here we found that miR-743b-3p was higher expressed in the liver tissues of ageing mice through the small RNA sequencing and bioinformatics analysis, and its target PPM1K was predicted and confirmed the target relationship of miR-743b-3p with PPM1K in the aged mouse liver tissues and the cultured senescent hepatocytes in vitro. Moreover, using the transfected miR-743b-3p mimics/inhibitors into the senescent hepatocyte AML12. We found that miR-743b-3p inhibition reversed the hepatocyte senescence, and finally decreased the expression of genes involved in lipid synthesis(Chrebp, Fabp4, Acly and Pparγ) through increasing the target gene expression of PPM1K which regulated the expression of branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) metabolism-related genes (Bckdhα, Bckdk, Bcat2, Dbt). These results identify that age-induced expression of miR-743b-3p inhibits its target PPM1K which induces BCAA metabolic disorder and regulates hepatocyte lipid accumulation during ageing. Show less
Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a disorder characterized by the premature decline in ovarian function, leading to significant fertility and health impacts on women under 40. The unclear etiolog Show more
Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a disorder characterized by the premature decline in ovarian function, leading to significant fertility and health impacts on women under 40. The unclear etiology of POI hinders the development of effective treatments, highlighting the need for novel therapeutic targets. This study employed genome-wide association analysis (GWAS) integrated with expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) data from the GTEx and eQTLGen databases. Mendelian randomization (MR) and colocalization analyses were conducted to investigate causal relationships between genetic variants and POI and to identify potential therapeutic targets. We identified 431 genes with available index cis-eQTL signals, of which four (HM13, FANCE, RAB2A, and MLLT10) were significantly associated with POI. Colocalization analysis revealed strong evidence for FANCE and RAB2A, indicating their potential as therapeutic targets. Subsequent druggability assessments identified FANCE and RAB2A as promising candidates for POI treatment, supported by their involvement in DNA repair and autophagy regulation, respectively. Our study establishes a causal link between specific genes and POI, highlighting FANCE and RAB2A as potential drug targets. These findings provide a foundation for future research and therapeutic development, aiming to improve outcomes for women with POI. Validation in further trials is necessary to confirm these potential targets. Show less