The hepatocytes orchestrate anabolic and catabolic pathways by dynamically modulating mitochondria–endoplasmic reticulum contacts (MERCs) in response to dietary fluctuations. While MERCs exhibit prono Show more
The hepatocytes orchestrate anabolic and catabolic pathways by dynamically modulating mitochondria–endoplasmic reticulum contacts (MERCs) in response to dietary fluctuations. While MERCs exhibit pronounced dietary sensitivity, the underlying regulatory mechanisms remain poorly elucidated. Here, a bimolecular fluorescence complementation-based proximity labeling strategy was utilized to identify the MERCs proteomes in hepatocytes under various nutritional conditions. As a result, many previously uncharacterized MERCs proteins were identified to be sensitive to nutritional state, suggesting that these proteins might play important roles in regulating hepatic metabolism. We further demonstrated that FADS3 accumulates at MERCs under starvation. FADS3 was proved to play important role for the maintenance of MERCs in both cell lines and mice liver. Deficiency of FADS3 in mice liver induces altered sphingolipid metabolism under starvation. Our study provided comprehensive insights into the composition and dynamics of mitochondria-ER contacts in hepatocytes under various metabolic conditions, and also revealed key regulatory proteins linking mitochondria-ER contacts and metabolic adaptation. [Image: see text] The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12964-026-02679-5. Show less
Women show higher levels of Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology than men, but the implications for cognitive decline remain unclear. Determining the extent to which tau burden differentially accelerate Show more
Women show higher levels of Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology than men, but the implications for cognitive decline remain unclear. Determining the extent to which tau burden differentially accelerates cognitive decline in men and women will provide critical insights into sex-specific pathways of disease progression. We leveraged tau positron emission tomography (PET), amyloid beta (Aβ) PET, apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 genotyping, and longitudinal cognitive data over approximately 8.6 (standard deviation [SD] = 3.8) years from 1007 cognitively unimpaired adults across three cohorts. Cognitive trajectories were modeled with linear mixed-effects regression including sex × tau × time interactions, and results were synthesized using random-effects meta-analysis. Higher tau burden in medial and lateral temporal regions was associated with faster cognitive decline in women than in men. High tau burden carries a disproportionately greater cognitive cost for women, underscoring the need for sex-specific approaches to early detection and therapeutic intervention in AD. A meta-analysis across three independent cohorts shows that female cognitive advantage at low tau shifts to vulnerability at higher tau. Sex differences in tau-related cognitive decline were consistent after accounting for amyloid burden. Sex-specific rates of cognitive decline should be considered in clinical trial design. Show less
Sepsis is a syndrome caused by the host's inflammatory response to an infection with an unknown mechanism. This study aimed to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) potentially involved in th Show more
Sepsis is a syndrome caused by the host's inflammatory response to an infection with an unknown mechanism. This study aimed to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) potentially involved in the development and recovery of tracheal injury from septic shock. Nine New Zealand white rabbits were randomized to control (CON), septic shock model (SS), and septic shock norepinephrine treatment (SSNE) groups (each group n = 3). The SS and SSNE groups were injected with lipopolysaccharide to induce septic shock. The SSNE group was administered Ringer lactate with norepinephrine to maintain normal blood pressure. All animals underwent cuffed endotracheal intubation for 2 h. The injured tracheal segment was harvested. RNA sequencing was performed to identify the DEGs, followed by bioinformatics analysis, and pathological staining (both HE and Masson) was performed for pathological evaluation. Bioinformatics analysis included principal component analysis (PCA), gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network construction. Key findings were validated by qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry. We obtained 124 upregulated and 28 downregulated DEGs in SS vs. CON groups, along with 60 upregulated and 178 downregulated DEGs in SSNE vs. SS groups. The pathological score showed that trachea tissue in the SS group had the highest score. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) prediction identified APOB and CD36 as the hub genes. The molecular experiments further confirmed that at mRNA and protein levels, APOB was significantly upregulated, while CD36 was significantly downregulated. Subsequent qRT-PCR and immunohistochemical analyses confirmed that APOB expression was significantly upregulated while CD36 was downregulated in the septic shock group, a trend partially reversed by norepinephrine treatment. Our study results suggest that APOB and CD36 may be involved in the pathogenesis of tracheal injury recovery in septic shock patients treated with NE. Not applicable. Show less
COG133, a peptide fragment derived from apolipoprotein E (ApoE) corresponding to residues 133-149, has demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective activity. However, its precise ant Show more
COG133, a peptide fragment derived from apolipoprotein E (ApoE) corresponding to residues 133-149, has demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective activity. However, its precise anti-inflammatory mechanisms and its potential to ameliorate depression-like behaviors remain incompletely understood. This study investigated the effects of COG133 in mouse models of depression induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), chronic social defeat stress (CSDS), and corticosterone (CORT), as well as in LPS-stimulated BV-2 microglial cells. We found that COG133 treatment significantly alleviated depression-like phenotypes and suppressed hippocampal neuroinflammation by inhibiting microglial overactivation. Using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and biochemical validation, we identified the MKK3/6-p38-ATF2 signaling axis as a central mechanism underlying the anti-inflammatory effects of COG133. Pharmacological modulation of p38 MAPK further confirmed that this pathway is essential for COG133-mediated behavioral and cellular recovery. Together, these findings identify COG133 as a promising peptide candidate for the treatment of depression through modulation of the p38 MAPK-mediated neuroinflammation axis. Show less
Acute kidney injury (AKI), a critical clinical syndrome marked by high incidence and mortality, is currently diagnosed mainly by serum creatinine (SCr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN), which have high m Show more
Acute kidney injury (AKI), a critical clinical syndrome marked by high incidence and mortality, is currently diagnosed mainly by serum creatinine (SCr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN), which have high miss rates. This study innovatively proposes using urinary hydrogen peroxide (H Show less
Staphylococcus aureus is a significant pathogen that poses a threat to both human and animal health. Its pathogenicity in humans has been extensively studied, however, the signaling pathways and key g Show more
Staphylococcus aureus is a significant pathogen that poses a threat to both human and animal health. Its pathogenicity in humans has been extensively studied, however, the signaling pathways and key genes in Koi Carp responding to S. aureus from human rhinitis remain unclear. In this study, we established an intraperitoneal infection model in koi carp (Cyprinus carpio) using an S. aureus isolate from patients with rhinitis and integrated RNA-seq, qPCR, and ELISA to dissect the host response. Our findings reveal a dual-module immune evasion strategy employed by S. aureus in koi carp. Module I: The pathogen down-regulated the entire complement coagulation cascade (C3, C9, CFH, F7/9/10) and apolipoprotein-mediated opsonins (APOA1, APOB, APOC1/2), thereby crippling innate clearance. Module II: The host mounted a restricted but potent counter-response, characterized by type I IFN signalling (gvin1, MHC-I), NK/T-cell co-stimulation (CD244, SLAMF5), and the selective induction of IL-8 and IL-1β, while IL-6, IL-10, and TNF-α remained unchanged. Functionally, serum superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and lysozyme (LZM) activities surged, confirming an oxidative burst, whereas splenic CD22R protein decreased, indicating B-cell disinhibition. These results establish a molecular basis for understanding the interaction between human-derived S. aureus and the immune system of aquatic organisms. Show less
Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a fatal disease characterized by vascular wall inflammation and matrix remodeling. The inflammatory phenotypic transformation of smooth muscle cells (SMCs) holds a p Show more
Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a fatal disease characterized by vascular wall inflammation and matrix remodeling. The inflammatory phenotypic transformation of smooth muscle cells (SMCs) holds a pivotal role in AAA pathogenesis. As an inflammatory regulator, whether FBJ osteosarcoma oncogene B (Fosb) participates in AAA progression by driving SMC phenotypic switching remains unclear. Using the scRNA-seq data from AAA patients, we identified Fosb as a key driver of SMC phenotypic switching through cell clustering annotation, differential gene screening, functional enrichment, and pseudo-time trajectory analysis. An in vitro AAA cell model was established using Ang-II-stimulated T/G HA-VSMC cells. Fosb expression was assessed by qRT-PCR and western blot (WB). AAA cell models with Fosb knockdown or overexpression were constructed to investigate the effects of Fosb on T/G HA-VSMC cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, invasion, contractile marker protein expression, and inflammatory cytokine secretion via WB, CCK8, Transwell, flow cytometry, and ELISA. Furthermore, WB was applied in detecting ferroptosis and NF-κB signaling pathway protein expression. Kits were employed for the determination of MDA, GSH, and Fe Fosb Fosb drives SMC ferroptosis and inflammatory phenotypic switching, via NF-κB pathway activation, thereby reinforcing AAA progression. Targeting Fosb or the ferroptosis pathway may provide new therapeutic strategies for AAA treatment. Show less
Alzheimer' s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by a spectrum of cognitive impairments, ranging from mild memory loss to severe cognitive decline and, ultimately, d Show more
Alzheimer' s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by a spectrum of cognitive impairments, ranging from mild memory loss to severe cognitive decline and, ultimately, death. The global incidence of AD is projected to increase significantly, with late-onset AD being predominantly sporadic in nature. Over the past three decades, the Apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene has been recognized as the most important single genetic determinant of sporadic AD risk. The APOE4 allele is a major risk factor for AD and is known to exacerbate the pathological process for AD. Identifying protective variants that may reduce the risk or delay the onset of AD is of great significance for the development of effective treatments. This review comprehensively examines the protective effects of APOE and its related protective mutations. It also explores the impact of these unique protective variants at the cellular level during the pathological progression of AD. Furthermore, the review compiles new insights for AD treatment offered by these protective mutations, exploring the potential applications of APOE and its related protective variants in advanced therapeutic strategies, including gene editing, RNA editing, and stem cell therapy. Show less
Aberrant fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3) activation drives bladder carcinogenesis in humans, but currently approved pan-FGFR inhibitors lack FGFR3 isoform selectivity and fail to counter c Show more
Aberrant fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3) activation drives bladder carcinogenesis in humans, but currently approved pan-FGFR inhibitors lack FGFR3 isoform selectivity and fail to counter clinically acquired resistance mutations (e.g., FGFR3 V555M/L). Herein, we report the structure-based drug design of 4-(1-methyl-1 Show less
Caloric restriction (CR) improves metabolic health and reduces the risk of aging-related vascular diseases. However, the systematic metabolic reprogramming associated with CR remains unclear. To addre Show more
Caloric restriction (CR) improves metabolic health and reduces the risk of aging-related vascular diseases. However, the systematic metabolic reprogramming associated with CR remains unclear. To address this, we performed multi-tissue metabolomic profiling (liver, heart, and serum) in apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE-/-) mice subjected to CR. Metabolomic analyses of the multiple tissues revealed that glycerophospholipid metabolism pathway was consistently modulated by CR. To explore its relevance in vascular diseases, we performed serum metabolomic profiling in an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) model induced by angiotensin Ⅱ (AngⅡ) infusion in ApoE-/- mice. The level of lysophosphatidylethanolamine (LPE) (16:0/0:0), a metabolite in the glycerophospholipid metabolism pathway, was elevated during AAA progression and significantly reduced by CR intervention, suggesting its potential as a vascular disease risk factor. Notably, glycerophospholipid metabolism and LPE (16:0) were significantly associated with vascular diseases and aging-related indicators in human multi-omics data, including public transcriptomic and lipidomic, and our serum multi-omics profiling of 76 healthy aged individuals. Collectively, our findings establish glycerophospholipid metabolism and LPE (16:0) as systemic signatures of CR with diagnostic potential. They highlight a crucial link between systemic metabolism and vascular remodeling and remodeling-associated vascular diseases, while also functioning as indicators of systemic aging. Show less
Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] has been recognized as a genetically determined and independent contributor to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. However, its role in lower extremity arterial disease (LEA Show more
Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] has been recognized as a genetically determined and independent contributor to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. However, its role in lower extremity arterial disease (LEAD) among individuals with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) remains insufficiently studied. Given the overlapping metabolic disturbances in both conditions, such as insulin resistance and lipid abnormalities, a potential relationship between Lp(a) and peripheral vascular injury in MASLD is biologically plausible. This study aimed to investigate the cross-sectional association between circulating Lp(a) concentrations and the presence of LEAD in a well-characterized MASLD population. A total of 468 MASLD patients undergoing routine health check-ups were included. Lp(a) levels were stratified into three categories: <10 mg/dL, 10–30 mg/dL, and ≥ 30 mg/dL. LEAD was diagnosed using duplex ultrasonography. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess the relationship between Lp(a) levels and the presence of LEAD, with adjustments for demographic variables, metabolic conditions, and lipid-related parameters. Subgroup analyses were conducted to assess potential effect modification. LEAD was diagnosed in 61.5% ( Elevated Lp(a) levels were associated with a higher prevalence of LEAD in patients with MASLD. Although the magnitude of association per unit increase was modest, higher Lp(a) concentrations were associated with greater LEAD prevalence. These findings should be interpreted cautiously and viewed as hypothesis-generating, particularly with respect to subgroup analyses. Prospective studies are needed to clarify causality and clinical relevance. The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12872-026-05600-7. Show less
ApoB (apolipoprotein B)-containing lipoproteins are causal risk factors for atherosclerotic coronary artery disease (CAD). Since human cathelicidin LL-37 binds to ApoB-100 in this pathological context Show more
ApoB (apolipoprotein B)-containing lipoproteins are causal risk factors for atherosclerotic coronary artery disease (CAD). Since human cathelicidin LL-37 binds to ApoB-100 in this pathological context, we investigated whether the circulating LL-37-ApoB-100 complex could serve as a biomarker for CAD. We performed surface plasmon resonance and protein-protein docking to demonstrate the direct LL-37-ApoB-100 interaction. We developed a specific polyclonal antibody against the complex and measured its levels in human atherosclerotic plaques and plasma, as well as in We identified that LL-37 directly interacted with multiple distinct binding sites on ApoB-100. Plasma levels of LL-37-ApoB-100 complex were significantly elevated in human patients with atherosclerosis. Consistently, levels of this complex were positively correlated with atherosclerotic plaque area in Circulating LL-37-ApoB-100 levels are strongly associated with angiographically documented CAD, highlighting LL-37-ApoB-100 as an independent predictor for CAD. Show less
Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) has a high rate of death and disability. LncRNA-TUG1 is essential for the pathological changes secondary to ICH. The purpose of this work was to investigate the possible Show more
Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) has a high rate of death and disability. LncRNA-TUG1 is essential for the pathological changes secondary to ICH. The purpose of this work was to investigate the possible mechanism by which TUG1 inhibits neural repair subsequent to ICH through adjusting miR-381-3p/brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). After the ICH model was created, miR-381-3p agomir and pcDNA-TUG1 were injected. The neural function of rats was estimated using the modified neurological severity score. To quantify the expression of genes and proteins, western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and qRT-PCR were used. To confirm the interaction between TUG1 and miR-381-3p and between miR-381-3p and BDNF mRNA, a luciferase reporter assay was employed. In rats treated with miR-381-3p agomir, a trend of improvement in neurological dysfunction was observed, while the pcDNA-TUG1-treated ones showed deterioration. Furthermore, miR-381-3p agomir increased, while pcDNA-TUG1 reduced the expression level of BDNF in ICH rats. TUG1 and BDNF mRNA were validated to attach directly to miR-381-3p. Overexpressing TUG1 inhibited the level of BDNF by sponging miR-381-3p and antagonized its protective effect on neural repair in ICH rats. Our study suggests that TUG1 can sponge miR-381-3p to downregulate BDNF expression and inhibit neural repair following ICH, demonstrating a potential signaling pathway that is conducive to a better understanding of the pathological mechanisms of ICH. Show less
Early-life stress is a critical determinant of vulnerability to later-life affective and cognitive dysfunction, yet the mechanisms through which adolescent adversity enhances adult stress susceptibili Show more
Early-life stress is a critical determinant of vulnerability to later-life affective and cognitive dysfunction, yet the mechanisms through which adolescent adversity enhances adult stress susceptibility remain incompletely understood. Here, we employed a two-hit model combining adolescent social isolation stress (SIS) with adult chronic restraint stress (CRS) to examine how developmental stress interacts with adult stress exposure. SIS alone or CRS alone exerted minimal behavioral effects, whereas SIS followed by CRS markedly potentiated depression-like behaviors and impaired spatial and object recognition memory. Two-hit stress produced robust hippocampal neuroinflammatory responses, including increased astrocytic and microglial activation and elevated TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-17A levels. These inflammatory alterations were accompanied by pronounced suppression of the BDNF/TrkB/p-CREB signaling cascade, reduced synaptic protein expression, and diminished dendritic spine density and branching complexity in CA1 pyramidal neurons. Notably, light treatment (LT) administered during CRS exposure significantly reversed two-hit induced behavioral deficits, attenuated glial activation and cytokine upregulation, enhanced BDNF/TrkB and p-CREB signaling, and restored synaptic and structural plasticity. Together, these findings indicate that adolescent SIS primes the hippocampus for exaggerated neuroinflammatory and neuroplastic impairments following adult stress, thereby amplifying stress vulnerability. Furthermore, LT emerges as a safe non-pharmacological intervention capable of mitigating combined stress-induced emotional and cognitive dysfunction by targeting neuroinflammatory and neurotrophic pathways. Show less
Hypercholesterolemia and a high-fat diet promote 2 macrophage subtypes involved in atherosclerosis by inducing lipid droplet accumulation in foamy macrophages (FMs) and inflammatory activation in non- Show more
Hypercholesterolemia and a high-fat diet promote 2 macrophage subtypes involved in atherosclerosis by inducing lipid droplet accumulation in foamy macrophages (FMs) and inflammatory activation in non-foamy macrophages (NFMs). MicroRNAs are key regulators of macrophage function; for instance, The role of Unlike FMs, NFMs are primarily located in the plaque core and show higher Show less
Lead (Pb) accumulation in the hippocampus and the resulting oxidative stress contribute to memory impairments, highlighting the hippocampus as a primary target for Pb neurotoxicity. Selenium-containin Show more
Lead (Pb) accumulation in the hippocampus and the resulting oxidative stress contribute to memory impairments, highlighting the hippocampus as a primary target for Pb neurotoxicity. Selenium-containing peptides TSeMMM and SeMDPGQQ are able to alleviate Pb-induced oxidative neurological damage and the specific microRNAs involved in the memory protection by the two peptides need to be explored. In this study, mouse memory impairment models were constructed through the administration of 20 mg kg Show less
Wenjie Li, Chen Li, Xing Li+1 more · 2026 · The aging male : the official journal of the International Society for the Study of the Aging Male · Taylor & Francis · added 2026-04-24
Prostate cancer (PCa) is a leading cause of male cancer-related death globally. While the gut microbiota is linked to PCa, its genetic association remains unclear. We screened genetic instruments rela Show more
Prostate cancer (PCa) is a leading cause of male cancer-related death globally. While the gut microbiota is linked to PCa, its genetic association remains unclear. We screened genetic instruments related to the gut microbiota and paired them with PCa genome-wide association study data to conduct Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis. Positive MR findings were then subjected to colocalization analysis. Subsequently, we utilized the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) dataset to perform differential expression analysis, aiming to identify differentially expressed associated genes (DEAGs). We determined the importance scores of these DEAGs through four machine learning models and constructed a nomogram based on these findings, and then validated it in another group of the GEO dataset. MR analysis found 16 gut bacteria causally linked to PCa (7 risk, 9 protective), with 144 related genes. PLCL1, VSNL1, ROR2, NRXN3, and TEAD1 were identified as feature genes for constructing a nomogram that provides a quantitative prediction of the risk of PCa onset. This study indicates that there are causal links between the gut microbiota and PCa. Feature genes may affect the occurrence of PCa by inhibiting the epithelial-mesenchymal transition, proliferation, migration, and invasion of cells. Show less
Fear of progression (FoP) is a prevalent psychological issue among stroke patients. Previous studies failing to distinguish characteristics of patient groups with varying FoP levels. Latent profile an Show more
Fear of progression (FoP) is a prevalent psychological issue among stroke patients. Previous studies failing to distinguish characteristics of patient groups with varying FoP levels. Latent profile analysis (LPA) classifies individuals into distinct subgroups via continuous FoP indicators, boosting classification accuracy by accounting for variable uncertainty. Given FoP's heterogeneity, investigating FoP profiles and their influencing factors in stroke patients is clinically significant for personalized psychological care and improved patient quality of life. A total of 366 stroke patients were selected as study subjects through convenience sampling, and a cross-sectional survey was conducted. FoP was assessed using the Fear of Progression Questionnaire-Short Form (FoP-Q-SF, 2 dimensions, 12 items). Independent variables included demographic characteristics, clinical indicators, the Recurrence Risk Perception Scale for Stroke patients (RRPSS), and the Medical Coping Modes Questionnaire (MCMQ). LPA was performed on the FoP-Q-SF items to identify subgroups. The R3STEP method was used to analyze influencing factors of subgroup membership, and the BCH method was applied to compare differences in distal outcomes across subgroups. Statistical significance was set at The study sample had a mean age of 63.93 ± 10.58 years, with 70.5% males and 65.0% first-ever stroke patients. Two latent profiles were identified: Low-FoP Adaptive Type (C1, 48.6%) and High-FoP Sustained Type (C2, 51.4%). The R3STEP showed that age 18-59 years (OR = 0.476, 95%CI = 0.245-0.924, This study revealed significant heterogeneity in FoP among stroke patients. Age, hypertension comorbidity, excessive recurrence risk perception, MCMQ-confrontation, and MCMQ-avoidance were associated with high FoP. Healthcare providers should prioritize identifying high-risk individuals and develop tailored interventions to reduce FoP and improve rehabilitation outcomes. Show less
Prednisone is used clinically during pregnancy. This study investigates whether prenatal prednisone exposure (PPE) affects susceptibility to high-fat diet (HFD)-induced metabolic dysfunction-associate Show more
Prednisone is used clinically during pregnancy. This study investigates whether prenatal prednisone exposure (PPE) affects susceptibility to high-fat diet (HFD)-induced metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) in adult offspring and explores underlying mechanisms. Pregnant Kunming mice were administered prednisone (0.25 or 1 mg/kg; PPE-L or PPE-H) or vehicle control (5% carboxymethyl cellulose; Ctrl) by daily gavage from gestational days 0-18. Offspring were assessed metabolically, histologically, and via RNA-Seq. Primary hepatocytes were treated with fatty acids with or without the epigenetic inhibitors to evaluate Nr1h3 expression and lipid deposition. Offspring body weight was similar in PPE-L vs Ctrl, but was reduced in PPE-H group followed by delayed growth. After 6-week HFD feeding, PPE-L offspring showed mild metabolic issues, while PPE-H males exhibited significant glucose/lipid disorders and hepatic steatosis compared to controls. RNA-Seq showed upregulation of hepatic lipid pathways in the PPE-H male offspring when challenged by HFD. The liver X receptor alpha (LXRα)-sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1 (SREBP1) signaling pathway and the expression of genes involved in de novo fatty acid synthesis were increased in PPE-H offspring under HFD. A485 significantly downregulated the expression of Nr1h3 in primary hepatocytes from male PPE-H offspring and alleviated lipid deposition in these hepatocytes treated with fatty acids. The H3K27ac level in the Nr1h3 promoter in the PPE-H offspring's liver was significantly upregulated. PPE-L impairs offspring glucose/lipid homeostasis, whereas PPE-H increase MAFLD risk of the offspring by epigenetic programming of the hepatic LXRα-SREBP1 pathway, especially in the males. Show less
Frailty is associated with increased risks of falls, disability, hospitalization, and mortality. The 24-h movement behaviors (24HMB) framework conceptualizes sleep, sedentary behavior (SB), light-inte Show more
Frailty is associated with increased risks of falls, disability, hospitalization, and mortality. The 24-h movement behaviors (24HMB) framework conceptualizes sleep, sedentary behavior (SB), light-intensity physical activity (LPA), and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) as mutually constrained components of daily time use and may inform frailty prevention and management. This scoping review maps evidence on associations between 24HMB and frailty and identifies methodological gaps to inform future research and nursing practice. This review adheres to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) and follows Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidance. We searched PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and Web of Science. We included observational studies of adults aged ≥18 years. Exposures were objectively measured or validated self-reported sleep, SB, LPA, and MVPA, including step counts, breaks in SB, isotemporal substitution models (ISM), and compositional data analysis (CoDA). Outcomes were frailty or prefrailty assessed using validated instruments. Quality was appraised with JBI tools. Thirty-three studies showed good methodological quality. Longer SB, particularly prolonged, uninterrupted bouts, was associated with higher frailty. Greater MVPA was consistently associated with lower frailty. Light-intensity physical activity was generally beneficial but often attenuated when MVPA or total activity volume was modeled. Sleep fragmentation and poor sleep quality were associated with frailty. Isotemporal substitution models and compositional data analysis indicated that reallocating sedentary time to MVPA would yield the largest theoretical benefit, followed by reallocating to LPA. Higher daily step counts and more frequent or higher-intensity breaks in SB were associated with lower frailty. Evidence supports a 24-h integrated movement-behavior approach centered on MVPA, combined with reducing prolonged SB and improving sleep quality, for the prevention and nursing management of frailty. The study design and analytical protocol were prospectively registered on the Open Science Framework (OSF). The unique identifier is S39Y4, and the publicly accessible URL is https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/S39Y4. Show less
Microglia monitor disease stimulation, neuronal apoptosis, and neural repair, and their overactivation-induced inflammation plays a key role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Morronisid Show more
Microglia monitor disease stimulation, neuronal apoptosis, and neural repair, and their overactivation-induced inflammation plays a key role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Morroniside (Mor), an iridoid glycoside compound in Cornus officinalis, is one of the effective active components. The effects of Mor on antioxidant stress, antiapoptosis, and nerve repair function have been widely studied, but the mechanism of Mor in AD treatment remains unclear. To study the neuroprotective effects of Mor and elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying its improvement of AD symptoms, we used ApoE4 transgenic mice and ApoE4-transfected BV2 cells as models of AD, focusing on microglia phenotype, function, and neuroinflammation. The 10-month-old mice were randomly divided into the ApoE3 control group (ApoE3 + Veh), the ApoE4 model group (ApoE4 + Veh), and the ApoE4 + Mor 10, 20, and 40 mg/kg groups as in vivo models. The in vitro BV2-ApoE model was constructed via lentiviral transfection. The effects of Mor on cognitive function of AD models were assessed through behavioral tests, western blot, immunofluorescence staining, and ELISA to measure changes of related pathological and inflammatory factors. Mor improved the cognitive function of ApoE4 transgenic mice by reducing Aβ plaques in the brain, improving the structural lesions of hippocampal neurons, and increasing synaptic plasticity in the brain of AD mice. In addition, Mor promoted the transformation of microglia from the M1 to the M2 phenotype, inhibited the activation of the CX3CR1/PU.1 signaling axis, and alleviated the dysfunction of microglia both in vitro and in vivo. CX3CR1 siRNA and PU.1 siRNA were used further to verify the regulatory effect of Mor on microglia phenotype. Our findings indicate that Mor can inhibit neuroinflammation, reduce Aβ accumulation, and improve synaptic damage in ApoE4 mice via the CX3CL1/CX3CR1/PU.1 pathway regulating the phenotype and function of microglia. This study provides a new therapeutic candidate for the prevention and treatment of AD. Show less
Elevated lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] levels are an established risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, but the association between Lp(a) and venous thromboembolism (VTE) remains unclear. Se Show more
Elevated lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] levels are an established risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, but the association between Lp(a) and venous thromboembolism (VTE) remains unclear. Sex and hormonal status may modify the relationship between Lp(a) and VTE. The present study included participants from the UK Biobank with available baseline Lp(a) data. Individuals with a history of VTE or cancer, as well as those using anticoagulants, were excluded. Multivariable-adjusted Cox models were used to assess the association between Lp(a) levels ≥ 125 nmol/L and incident VTE in premenopausal women, postmenopausal women, and men. Subgroup analyses stratified premenopausal women by oral contraceptive (OCP) use and postmenopausal women by menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) use. Among 55 302 premenopausal women, 129 045 postmenopausal women, and 189 013 men, the proportions with Lp(a) ≥ 125 nmol/L were 14.0%, 19.0%, and 15.0%, respectively. Over a median (interquartile range) follow-up of 13.6 (12.9-14.4) years, 8186 VTE events occurred (cumulative incidence 2.2%). Lp(a) ≥ 125 nmol/L was associated with incident VTE in premenopausal women [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 1.32; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.04-1.66; P = 0.02] but not in postmenopausal women (aHR 1.03; 95% CI 0.94-1.13; P = 0.47; Pinteraction = 0.03) or men (aHR 1.00; 95% CI 0.92-1.08; P = 0.94). OCP use did not modify the Lp(a)-VTE association among premenopausal women (Pinteraction = 0.61). However, among postmenopausal MHT users, Lp(a) ≥ 125 nmol/L was associated with higher VTE risk (aHR 1.48; 95% CI 1.03-2.12; P = 0.03; Pinteraction = 0.04). Elevated Lp(a) was associated with VTE in premenopausal women and in postmenopausal MHT users, suggesting that hormonal context may influence Lp(a)- associated thrombotic risk. Show less
Keratoconus (KC) is a progressive disorder of corneal thinning characterized by responses in the extracellular matrix and cellular interactions. This study used bioinformatics methods to identify key Show more
Keratoconus (KC) is a progressive disorder of corneal thinning characterized by responses in the extracellular matrix and cellular interactions. This study used bioinformatics methods to identify key genes involved in KC development and in anoikis and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. KC and control datasets from the GEO database were analyzed to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). These were cross-referenced with anoikis and ER stress-related genes from Genecards. Functional enrichment, immune infiltration analysis, and machine learning techniques (LASSO, Random Forest) were used to identify candidate molecular signatures, which were then validated in an animal model. We identified 46 DEGs associated with anoikis and 41 DEGs related to ER stress. Functional analysis linked them to apoptosis and IL-17 signaling. Five key molecular signatures were identified: CDKN1A, MCL1, PTGS2, PTHLH, and ANGPTL4. The expression of ANGPTL4, CDKN1A, and MCL1 was consistent in the animal model. These genes are associated with inflammatory and oxidative stress responses. Twelve potential therapeutic drugs were predicted. This study identifies five candidate molecular signatures for KC related to anoikis and ER stress, offering insights into KC pathogenesis and potential targeted therapies. Show less
Acute alcohol consumption is known to exert widespread physiological effects, yet the immediate impacts on metabolic biomarkers remain incompletely understood. The present randomized controlled trial Show more
Acute alcohol consumption is known to exert widespread physiological effects, yet the immediate impacts on metabolic biomarkers remain incompletely understood. The present randomized controlled trial was conducted to investigate the acute effects of a single episode of alcohol ingestion on various biomarkers in healthy individuals. A total of 45 male participants were recruited and randomized into an alcohol group (n = 40) and a control group (n = 5) at an 8:1 ratio. Volunteers in the alcohol group ingested 40% Absolut vodka within 15 min. Blood pressure, heart rate, and blood oxygen saturation were measured at 0 h, 1 h, 3 h, 5 h, 12 h, and 24 h. Venous blood samples were drawn at 0 h, 1 h, 5 h, 12 h, and 24 h after alcohol intake. Our results showed that levels of liver function markers, including α-fucosidase (AFU), albumin (ALB), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP), were significantly increased in the alcohol group compared to the control group. The 24-h area under curve (AUC) of AFU, ALB, and ALP were significantly higher in the alcohol group. The liver fibrosis maker collagen type Ⅳ (Ⅳ-C) tended to be higher at 1 h and 12 h in the alcohol group compared to the control group. Lipid levels, including triglycerides (TG), apolipoprotein A1 (APOA1), and the APOA1/APOB, were significantly elevated after alcohol ingestion, particularly at 5 h and 12 h. The 24 h-AUC of TG, APOA1, and APOA1/APOB were higher in the alcohol group than in the control group. Additionally, cardiac function indicators, including heart rate, systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), were significantly elevated in the alcohol group. SBP and DBP remained higher 24 h after alcohol ingestion compared to the control group. This study demonstrated that even a single episode of binge drinking could induce significant alterations of biomarkers related to liver function, cardiac function, and lipid profiles. These findings provided valuable insights into the short-term impact of alcohol on health and highlighted the importance of further research to explore the long-term implications of repeated acute alcohol exposure. Given the very small control group, these results should be interpreted as preliminary and confirmed in larger, more balanced randomized trials. The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1038/s41598-026-40028-1. Show less
Improved internet access has exposed rural adolescents in China to a greater risk of internet addiction. However, existing studies seldom examine the relationship between dynamic changes in internet a Show more
Improved internet access has exposed rural adolescents in China to a greater risk of internet addiction. However, existing studies seldom examine the relationship between dynamic changes in internet addiction and psychosocial maladjustment. This study aims to explore the transition patterns of internet addiction and its associations with emotional and interpersonal problems over time. A one-year longitudinal survey was conducted among 782 middle school students in rural China. Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) was conducted to identify internet addiction profiles at two time points. Latent Profile Transition Analysis (LPTA) was then used to examine the transition patterns between profiles over time. Subsequently, statistical analyses were conducted to explore how these transitions were associated with emotional and interpersonal problems. Three profiles of internet addiction were identified: minimal-internet addiction, low-internet addiction, and high-internet addiction. Based on LPTA, most adolescents with higher internet addiction at T1 shifted to lower-severity profiles over time (high → minimal: 35.3%; low → minimal: 39.8%; high → low: 33.3%), while some with initially lower levels transitioned to more severe profiles (minimal → high: 6.9%; low → high: 12.2%; minimal → low: 25.7%). Transition into higher addiction profiles predicted increased depression, anxiety, and poorer relationships with parents, peers, and teachers. Conversely, reductions in addiction were linked to improved depressive symptoms. Changes in internet addiction have an impact on adolescent psychosocial maladjustment. Early detection and flexible interventions are essential in rural settings. Show less
The poor efficacy of chemotherapy for glioma is mainly due to the difficulty of drug penetration through the blood-brain barrier (BBB), as well as the difficulty of drug concentration in the tumor tis Show more
The poor efficacy of chemotherapy for glioma is mainly due to the difficulty of drug penetration through the blood-brain barrier (BBB), as well as the difficulty of drug concentration in the tumor tissue to reach the effective therapeutic level. The emerging tumor-targeted delivery technology can facilitate the precise enrichment of drugs in the tumor site. Apolipoprotein E (ApoE(159-167) Show less