Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder wherein reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Amyloid-β-protein (Aβ) play critical roles. Inspired by traditional Chinese charcoal drug and Show more
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder wherein reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Amyloid-β-protein (Aβ) play critical roles. Inspired by traditional Chinese charcoal drug and the anti-inflammatory properties of some carbon dots, we developed Radix Isatidis derived carbon dots (RI-CDs) via a hydrothermal method. The RI-CDs can cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and were thus evaluated for AD therapy. In vitro, RI-CDs scavenged ROS, inhibited Aβ Show less
Both Apolipoprotein E-ε4 (APOE-ε4) and astrocytic activation, as measured by glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), play critical roles in Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the influence of astrocyt Show more
Both Apolipoprotein E-ε4 (APOE-ε4) and astrocytic activation, as measured by glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), play critical roles in Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the influence of astrocytic activation on the relationship between APOE-ε4 and AD pathologies remains unclear. This study investigates the interrelationships among astrocytic activation, APOE-ε4, and AD pathophysiology in 529 participants who underwent plasma biomarker measurements, APOE genotyping, and cognitive testing. Additionally, 277, 284, and 104 underwent structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), amyloid-β (Aβ) positron emission tomography (PET), and tau PET, respectively. The associations of plasma GFAP, APOE-ε4, and AD-related biomarkers, as well as whether plasma GFAP mediates APOE-ε4-related effects on AD, were investigated. Higher plasma GFAP and APOE-ε4 were independently associated with more severe Aβ and tau aggregation, as well as cognitive decline. Mediation analyses showed a significant indirect effect of APOE-ε4 on plasma p-tau biomarkers (21.1%-24.9%), Aβ PET (16.4%), and cognition (19.6%), while the indirect effect on tau PET was trend-level (29.1%, p Show less
While VPS13C is a recessively inherited Parkinson's disease (PD) gene, its potential dominant effects in idiopathic Rapid-eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder (iRBD) remain unexplored. The relat Show more
While VPS13C is a recessively inherited Parkinson's disease (PD) gene, its potential dominant effects in idiopathic Rapid-eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder (iRBD) remain unexplored. The relation between its monogenic form and the onset of PD suggested that subtype specificity may need to be considered. We examined the presence of likely pathogenic VPS13C variants in 150 iRBD and 180 α-synucleinopathy patients (iRBD-first and movement disorder-first). VPS13C variants were significantly enriched in iRBD patients, and ten iRBD risk variants have been identified. iRBD risk VPS13C variant carriers demonstrated more severe RBD symptoms and greater autonomic dysfunction, correlating with REM sleep EEG and autonomic network activity abnormalities. Notably, enrichment was specific to the iRBD-first α-synucleinopathy subtype, and iRBD risk VPS13C variant carriers showed accelerated progression to overt α-synucleinopathy. These results suggest that VPS13C not only contributes to iRBD susceptibility but also serves as a marker for the iRBD-first α-synucleinopathy and faster disease conversion. Show less
Tumor-related metabolites in the tumor microenvironment may induce immune dysfunction, leading to malignant progression and metastasis of tumors. Here, it is demonstrated that tumoral PLA2G16, a phosp Show more
Tumor-related metabolites in the tumor microenvironment may induce immune dysfunction, leading to malignant progression and metastasis of tumors. Here, it is demonstrated that tumoral PLA2G16, a phospholipase catalyzes phospholipids to generate free fatty acid (FFA) or lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), is an important contributor to triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) lung metastasis in an immune-dependent pattern by improving tetracosatetraenoic acid (C24:4 (n-6)) accumulation in the early metastatic niche of lung and impairing immune function of pulmonary CD8 Show less
Fusobacterium nucleatum (F. nucleatum), a key periodontal pathogen, is increasingly detected in atherosclerotic plaques, yet its epigenetic regulatory mechanisms in atherosclerosis remain enigmatic. T Show more
Fusobacterium nucleatum (F. nucleatum), a key periodontal pathogen, is increasingly detected in atherosclerotic plaques, yet its epigenetic regulatory mechanisms in atherosclerosis remain enigmatic. This study investigates how F. nucleatum reshapes the non-coding RNA landscape to drive atherosclerosis progression. Periodontal infection with F. nucleatum significantly increased atherosclerotic lesion area (p < 0.001) and necrotic core ratio, while reducing collagen content (p < 0.05) in ApoE Show less
Tc17 cells (IL-17 The percentage of Tc17 cells, monocytes and IL-1β Higher populations of Tc17 cells, IL-1β The present results show that suppressing IL-1β expression by preventing CD80 [Figure: see t Show more
Tc17 cells (IL-17 The percentage of Tc17 cells, monocytes and IL-1β Higher populations of Tc17 cells, IL-1β The present results show that suppressing IL-1β expression by preventing CD80 [Figure: see text] The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12964-026-02785-4. Show less
Shuhe Wang, Zhongguo Liu · 2026 · Frontiers in psychology · Frontiers · added 2026-04-24
This study aimed to use latent profile analysis (LPA) to identify heterogeneous configurational patterns of short video addiction and emotion dysregulation among college students, and to systematicall Show more
This study aimed to use latent profile analysis (LPA) to identify heterogeneous configurational patterns of short video addiction and emotion dysregulation among college students, and to systematically examine the predictive effects of cognitive reappraisal, emotional loneliness, and sociodemographic factors on latent profile membership. A cross-sectional survey design was employed. From April to July 2025, full-time undergraduate students were recruited from multiple universities in Shandong Province using a combination of convenience sampling and snowball sampling. Participants completed online questionnaires including the Short Video Addiction Scale, the Emotion Dysregulation Inventory (EDI), the Cognitive Reappraisal Scale, and the Emotional Loneliness Scale. A total of 1,168 valid questionnaires were obtained. LPA identified four optimal profiles: Profile 1 ("low short video addiction-low emotion dysregulation"), Profile 2 ("medium to lower short video addiction-medium to lower emotion dysregulation"), Profile 3 ("medium to upper short video addiction-medium to upper emotion dysregulation"), and Profile 4 ("high short video addiction-high emotion dysregulation"). Multivariable logistic regression analyses indicated that, with Profile 4 as the reference category, cognitive reappraisal significantly increased the likelihood of membership in lower-risk profiles, whereas emotional loneliness significantly decreased the likelihood of membership in lower-risk profiles. Among sociodemographic factors, being female and having an urban background significantly increased the likelihood of membership in Profile 1 (vs. Profile 4); being a non-only child and having no part-time work experience significantly predicted membership in Profile 3. Marked heterogeneity exists among college students in the measured dimensions of short-form video addiction and emotion dysregulation, and the two constructs exhibit highly concordant co-variation. The findings provide empirical support for developing risk-stratified and precision-oriented mental health intervention strategies. Show less
The Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway is a key regulator of adipogenesis and lipid metabolism. However, the specific role of its receptor, Patched2 (Ptch2), in these processes remains unclear. Here, usi Show more
The Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway is a key regulator of adipogenesis and lipid metabolism. However, the specific role of its receptor, Patched2 (Ptch2), in these processes remains unclear. Here, using a CRISPR/Cas9-mediated Show less
Atherosclerosis is a chronic and progressive inflammatory disease that can lead to adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events. Phenotypic switching of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) plays Show more
Atherosclerosis is a chronic and progressive inflammatory disease that can lead to adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events. Phenotypic switching of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) plays a pivotal role in its development and progression, but the upstream regulatory mechanisms remain incompletely defined. Here, we identify ubiquitin-fold modifier 1 (UFM1), a ubiquitin-like protein, as a critical regulator of VSMCs plasticity and atherogenesis. In VSMCs stimulated with oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL), UFM1 overexpression markedly attenuated phenotypic switching, restoring contractile features and suppressing synthetic activation, accompanied by reduced proliferation and migration. In contrast, UFM1 knockdown further exacerbated these phenotypic alterations. In ApoE Show less
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVDs) remain the primary cause of morbidity and mortality. Macrophages are involved in the progression and regression of atherosclerosis, and macrophage amin Show more
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVDs) remain the primary cause of morbidity and mortality. Macrophages are involved in the progression and regression of atherosclerosis, and macrophage amino acid metabolism is important during this process. Here, we identified that the expression of cystine/glutamate antiporter Slc7a11 was upregulated by oxidized low-density lipoprotein, and specifically enhanced in the macrophages of atherosclerotic plaques. Macrophage-specific Show less
Francis E Cambronero, Panpan Zhang, W Hudson Robb+8 more · 2026 · Journal of cerebral blood flow and metabolism : official journal of the International Society of Cerebral Blood Flow and Metabolism · SAGE Publications · added 2026-04-24
We investigate whether common circle of Willis (CoW) variants relate to cerebral blood flow (CBF) characteristics among aging adults. Vanderbilt Memory and Aging Project participants free of clinical Show more
We investigate whether common circle of Willis (CoW) variants relate to cerebral blood flow (CBF) characteristics among aging adults. Vanderbilt Memory and Aging Project participants free of clinical stroke ( Show less
The causal links between gut microbiota, inflammatory cytokines, and chronic rhinosinusitis are unclear. A Mendelian randomization study used data from the MiBioGen consortium (211 microbiota taxa, n Show more
The causal links between gut microbiota, inflammatory cytokines, and chronic rhinosinusitis are unclear. A Mendelian randomization study used data from the MiBioGen consortium (211 microbiota taxa, n = 18,340), genome-wide association studies of 91 inflammatory cytokines, and chronic rhinosinusitis data from the FinnGen consortium. Five microbiota taxa were causally linked to chronic rhinosinusitis. The genera Ruminococcaceae NK4A214 group and Victivallis were risk factors, while Lachnospiraceae NC2004 group, Ruminococcus2, and Subdoligranulum were protective. Elevated levels of axin-1, C-X-C motif chemokine 10, interleukin-18 receptor 1, interleukin-1-alpha, and vascular endothelial growth factor A increased risk, whereas C-C motif chemokine 19, CD40L receptor, and Fractalkine were protective. The Ruminococcaceae NK4A214 group id.11358 increased risk through reduced Fractalkine and elevated vascular endothelial growth factor A levels. The study supports a causal link between Ruminococcaceae NK4A214 group id.11358 and chronic rhinosinusitis, mediated by Fractalkine and vascular endothelial growth factor A levels. Show less
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) causes debilitating nightmares, flashbacks and anxiety stemming from a catastrophic, often life-threatening traumatic event. Originally described in soldiers expo Show more
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) causes debilitating nightmares, flashbacks and anxiety stemming from a catastrophic, often life-threatening traumatic event. Originally described in soldiers exposed to the horrors of battle, PTSD is now recognized in civilian victims of assault, natural disasters and mass casualty events. Most people experiencing trauma do not develop PTSD, so understanding neurobiological mechanisms is crucial to predicting risk and developing targeted treatments. There have been many studies seeking to find biomarkers for PTSD, and their results have converged on several brain regions, molecular pathways and neuropsychological functions. In this review, we focus on selected findings about the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), the chaperone protein FKBP51 (FK506 binding protein 51), BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), fear memory reconsolidation and epigenetic regulation of gene expression in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, amygdala and hippocampus. Together, these disparate aspects of brain function provide an emerging model for understanding the etiology and pathophysiology of PTSD. Avoidance of lethal threats is fundamental for survival, and this stringent evolutionary requirement has conserved many components of fear memory storage and behavioural response to danger. PTSD research can therefore rely on non-human animal model systems with better face and construct validity than most other psychiatric disorders. With this advantage, advances in PTSD biomarker identification are likely closer to clinical translation than in other mental illnesses. We attempt to highlight the most promising biomarkers that could be targeted by novel treatments and propose a map for future research work. Show less
The Apolipoprotein E ε4 (APOE ε4) allele and white matter hyperintensities (WMH) have been implicated in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). To investigate the dual roles of WMH in statistic Show more
The Apolipoprotein E ε4 (APOE ε4) allele and white matter hyperintensities (WMH) have been implicated in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). To investigate the dual roles of WMH in statistically moderating and mediating the relationship of APOE ε4 with AD and related phenotypes, as well as the potential biological correlates. Data were derived from 34,783 non-demented participants in the UK Biobank (UKB; mean age = 55 years; follow-up = 4.3 years) and 863 in the Alzheimer's disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI; mean age = 71.9 years; follow-up = 3.8 years). Multivariable models evaluated associations of APOE ε4 status, WMH, and their interaction with cognition, neurodegeneration, core pathologies, and AD risk. Mediation analyses were performed to quantify the extent to which WMH statistically explained ε4-outcome associations. Cerebrospinal fluid proteomic and bioinformatic analyses were used to explore biological clues in a subsample of ADNI (n = 708). APOE ε4 carriers exhibited larger WMH volumes (p < 0.001, UKB) and faster WMH change rates (p = 0.019, ADNI). In UKB, WMH statistically mediated a small proportion of associations between APOE ε4 and poorer numeric memory performance, smaller hippocampal volume, increased incident AD and all-cause dementia (ACD). In ADNI, WMH showed statistical mediation signals in the associations of APOE ε4 with faster rates of cognitive decline, amyloid-β (Aβ) deposition, and neurodegeneration. Notably, WMH interacted with APOE ε4 to exacerbate cognitive decline, hippocampal atrophy, and Aβ deposition. Proteomic analyses suggested that neuroinflammatory and axonal injury pathways may be associated with the observed mediating and moderating patterns. WMH mediated and enhanced the associations of APOE ε4 with AD-related phenotypes. These findings warrant further studies to clarify the underlying mechanisms and clinical implications. Show less
Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) is a key regulator of lipid metabolism that binds to lipid nanoparticle (LNP) surfaces to mediate cellular interactions. However, the ApoE-LNP behavior is highly dependent on t Show more
Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) is a key regulator of lipid metabolism that binds to lipid nanoparticle (LNP) surfaces to mediate cellular interactions. However, the ApoE-LNP behavior is highly dependent on the LNP composition, and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we show that subtle alterations in LNP surface lipids profoundly reshape the ApoE-LNP structure and intracellular trafficking. Using cryogenic electron microscopy and live-cell imaging, we demonstrate that replacing 10 mol % 1,2-distearoyl- Show less
Astrocyte-derived extracellular vesicles (ADEVs) have emerged as a novel research tool in the field of central nervous system disorders. However, significant differences in yield and purity exist amon Show more
Astrocyte-derived extracellular vesicles (ADEVs) have emerged as a novel research tool in the field of central nervous system disorders. However, significant differences in yield and purity exist among extracellular vesicles (EVs) isolated by different methods, leading to considerable heterogeneity in clinical study outcomes. Therefore, establishing appropriate normalization strategies to enhance comparability across results is a key prerequisite for their clinical translation. This study included 15 patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) and 15 healthy controls (HCs). ADEVs were isolated from plasma using ultracentrifugation combined with immunoaffinity capture. Subsequently, the levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), five EV biomarkers (CD9, CD63, CD81, Alix, and TSG101), and particle counts in ADEVs were quantified. In addition, plasma lipoprotein levels were measured. Our results demonstrated a lack of significant correlation between particle counts and the levels of five EV biomarkers in plasma ADEVs, whereas strong correlations were observed among the five biomarkers themselves. Normalization of BDNF levels to CD81 or CD9 revealed a significant decrease in the MDD group, whereas normalization to EV particle counts or other EV biomarkers did not show such differences. Notably, plasma levels of apolipoprotein B (APOB), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and total cholesterol (TC) significantly interfered with the measurement of particle counts. In summary, under conventional EV isolation and detection conditions, our findings support the use of EV biomarker levels rather than particle counts as a normalization method for quantifying target proteins of ADEVs in plasma. [Image: see text] The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12888-026-07796-6. Show less
The phagocytic function of macrophages is pivotal in regulating vascular inflammation and the progression of atherosclerosis (AS). Si-Miao-Yong-An Decoction (SMYAD), a traditional Chinese multi-herbal Show more
The phagocytic function of macrophages is pivotal in regulating vascular inflammation and the progression of atherosclerosis (AS). Si-Miao-Yong-An Decoction (SMYAD), a traditional Chinese multi-herbal remedy, has been used in the treatment of vascular inflammation and AS. However, its impact on the phagocytic activity of macrophages remains unexplored. ApoE SMYAD reduced lipid deposition and plaque area in ApoE This study, combining in vivo and in vitro experiments with network pharmacology, elucidates that SMYAD restores macrophage efferocytosis and mitigates vascular inflammation via the PPAR-γ/MerTK signaling pathway, offering potential therapeutic benefits for AS. Show less
Glycolysis-derived lactate serves as a substrate for lysine lactylation, an epigenetic modification playing critical transcriptional regulatory roles in inflammatory diseases. Endothelial inflammation Show more
Glycolysis-derived lactate serves as a substrate for lysine lactylation, an epigenetic modification playing critical transcriptional regulatory roles in inflammatory diseases. Endothelial inflammation, characterized by upregulated glycolysis, initiates atherosclerosis, yet the contribution of histone lactylation remains undefined. Although narciclasine exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, its impact on endothelial inflammation in atherosclerosis is unknown. Connectivity Map (CMap) analysis predicted narciclasine as an inhibitor of oscillatory shear stress and TNF-α-induced endothelial inflammation. In vitro, treatment of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) with 20 nM narciclasine significantly suppressed ox-LDL-induced expression of VCAM1, ICAM1, SELE, and CCL2, reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and inhibited monocyte adhesion and migration. In vivo, administration of narciclasine (0.02 mg/kg) attenuated carotid artery endothelial inflammation and macrophage infiltration, consequently reducing early atherogenesis in partial carotid ligation model in ApoE Show less
Silica exposure precipitates irreversible lung injury; however, its long-term neurological sequelae—and the microglial mechanisms underlying these effects—remain poorly understood. Here, we demonstrat Show more
Silica exposure precipitates irreversible lung injury; however, its long-term neurological sequelae—and the microglial mechanisms underlying these effects—remain poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that inhaled crystalline silica induces persistent hippocampal inflammation, anxiety- and depression-like behaviors, and neuronal loss in mice. Bulk RNA sequencing, immunophenotyping, and pharmacological depletion studies revealed that microglia are the primary source of complement C1q in silica-exposed brains. Mechanistically, silica-induced lipocalin-2 (LCN2) engages the melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) on microglia, activating a cAMP/PKA/NF-κB cascade that transcriptionally upregulates C1q. Pharmacological blockade of MC4R (using PF) abolished C1q overproduction, normalized brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels, and restored both synaptic integrity and behavioral performance. Our findings establish the LCN2–MC4R–C1q axis as a critical microglial pathway in silica-related neurotoxicity and identify MC4R antagonism as a promising, readily translatable intervention for occupational neuroinflammation. The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12974-026-03695-5. Show less
This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of patients with lower limb arteriosclerosis obliterans (ASO) toward their disease. This cross-sectional study was conducted at Show more
This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of patients with lower limb arteriosclerosis obliterans (ASO) toward their disease. This cross-sectional study was conducted at 3 tertiary hospitals in Chengdu between August 2023 and January 2024 and included patients with lower limb ASO. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire that captured demographic information and KAP scores. A latent profile analysis (LPA) was used to identify the KAP patterns among participants. A total of 515 nonproblematic questionnaires were collected, yielding an effective response rate of 95.72%. Among the respondents, 395 (76.85%) were male, with a disease course of 15.96 ± 17.55 months. The knowledge, attitude, and practice scores were 5.27 ± 4.69 (possible range: 0-22), 17.65 ± 2.86 (possible range: 5-25), and 107.63 ± 17.15 (possible range: 33-165), respectively. LPA identified 4 participant profiles: Profile 1 (high attitude, low practice), Profile 2 (low attitude, high practice), Profile 3 (low attitude, low practice), and Profile 4 (high attitude, high practice). Significant differences were found among profiles in residence (P = 0.028), medical insurance (P = 0.043), self-efficacy (P < 0.001), and patient activation (P < 0.001). Patients with lower limb ASO demonstrated inadequate knowledge but moderate levels of attitude and practice. Residence, medical insurance, self-efficacy, and patient activation may affect the KAP patterns of the patients. These findings suggest that tailored interventions targeting distinct patient profiles, while considering broader social determinants of health, may be critical to improving self-management and outcomes. Show less
Despite of the highly potent antiretroviral therapies, HIV-1 establishes persistent infection and causes chronic inflammation in AIDS patients. Beyond CD4+ T cells, HIV-1 infects myeloid cells, includ Show more
Despite of the highly potent antiretroviral therapies, HIV-1 establishes persistent infection and causes chronic inflammation in AIDS patients. Beyond CD4+ T cells, HIV-1 infects myeloid cells, including circulating monocytes and tissue-resident macrophages, and integrates with host genomes to form stable viral reservoirs. To achieve a functional HIV cure, latency-promoting agents (LPAs) have been developed for the "block-and-lock" strategy to reinforce deep HIV-1 latency and permanently silence proviruses. However, most LPAs have been tested mainly in CD4 Show less
Vascular calcification (VC) is prevalent in patients with chronic renal failure (CRF), and it is closely related to the morbidity and mortality of cardiovascular diseases; however, no medical treatmen Show more
Vascular calcification (VC) is prevalent in patients with chronic renal failure (CRF), and it is closely related to the morbidity and mortality of cardiovascular diseases; however, no medical treatments are available for this condition. Recent clinical studies have shown that plasma apolipoprotein C3 (ApoC3) levels are positively correlated with VC. However, whether ApoC3 is involved in VC remains unclear. Sections of calcified renal arteries from CRF patients were immunostained to measure calcium deposition and ApoC3 expression. VC was induced in ApoC3 transgenic (Tg) and knockout (KO) mice by both 5/6 nephrectomy and vitamin D ApoC3 expression levels were increased in calcified arteries from mice and patients with CRF. ApoC3 overexpression exacerbated calcium deposition in the calcified aortas from Tg mice in vivo, and in calcified aortic rings of Tg mice ex vivo and VSMCs infected by adenovirus of ApoC3 in vitro. Consistently with these findings, ApoC3 deficiency alleviated these effects. Furthermore, ApoC3 overexpression increased ferroptosis in calcified aortas and VSMCs, whereas ApoC3 deficiency suppressed ferroptosis. Further investigation revealed that ApoC3 inhibited the AMPK/NRF2 signaling pathway through toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) in calcified VSMCs, downregulated the expression of solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11) and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), subsequently increased lipid peroxidation and promoted ferroptosis, ultimately exacerbating calcification in the VSMCs. Furthermore, we found that knockdown of ApoC3 by siRNA remarkably attenuated calcification of renal arterial rings in humans. We demonstrated that ApoC3 exacerbated VC and increased the osteogenic transdifferentiation in VSMCs by increasing ferroptosis. ApoC3 might be a potential target for VC treatment. Show less
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) proteomics offers insights into molecular changes in aging and Alzheimer's disease (AD). Key AD biomarkers, in particular amyloid-β (Aβ) and tau, in CSF are strongly associat Show more
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) proteomics offers insights into molecular changes in aging and Alzheimer's disease (AD). Key AD biomarkers, in particular amyloid-β (Aβ) and tau, in CSF are strongly associated with Show less
Tianpei Ma, Xin Chen, Qingwen Zhao+19 more · 2026 · The journals of gerontology. Series A, Biological sciences and medical sciences · Oxford University Press · added 2026-04-24
Cognitive impairment is a significant health concern in aging populations, but the interplay between biological aging, lifestyle factors, and genetic susceptibility remains unclear. This study examine Show more
Cognitive impairment is a significant health concern in aging populations, but the interplay between biological aging, lifestyle factors, and genetic susceptibility remains unclear. This study examined whether accelerated biological aging is associated with cognitive impairment, whether lifestyle modifies this association, and how genetic background influences these relationships in Chinese older adults. In this cross-sectional study (2022-2023), 7033 participants from southwestern China were included. Accelerated biological aging was calculated as the residual difference between biological age (based on 10 biomarkers) and chronological age. Lifestyle was assessed via a composite index (smoking, alcohol, physical activity, diet, sleep). Cognitive function was measured using the Chinese Mini-Mental State Examination (C-MMSE), and genetic risk was evaluated through polygenic scores and APOE ε4 status. Linear and logistic regression models assessed associations between accelerated aging and cognition. Accelerated biological aging was associated with lower MMSE scores ( β = -0.243, 95% CI: -0.354, -0.133) and higher cognitive impairment prevalence (OR = 1.098, 95% CI: 1.040, 1.158). An unhealthy lifestyle exacerbated cognitive impairment in biologically older individuals (RERI = 0.25). Those with both accelerated aging and unhealthy lifestyle had the lowest MMSE scores ( β = -1.424, 95% CI: -1.846, -1.003) and highest odds of cognitive impairment (OR = 1.467, 95% CI: 1.194, 1.803). These effects were consistent across all genetic background subgroups. Accelerated aging was associated with lower cognitive function, especially in individuals with unhealthy lifestyles, regardless of genetic susceptibility. This highlights lifestyle modification as a potential intervention target for aging-related cognitive impairment. Show less
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is characterized by recurrent intermittent hypoxia (IH) and has been increasingly associated with lung cancer incidence and mortality. However, how IH-related biological Show more
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is characterized by recurrent intermittent hypoxia (IH) and has been increasingly associated with lung cancer incidence and mortality. However, how IH-related biological programs relate to immune remodeling, stemness-associated phenotypes, and therapeutic resistance in lung cancer remains incompletely understood. We integrated single-cell RNA sequencing data from IH-exposed murine lung tissues (GSE301350) with bulk transcriptomic datasets from TCGA-LUAD and GSE31210 to examine hypoxia-associated cellular and transcriptional patterns. Stemness was quantified using CytoTRACE and transcriptome-based stemness scoring, and its associations with immune infiltration, immune checkpoint expression, TIDE scores, predicted drug sensitivity, and immunotherapy response were evaluated. A stemness-based prognostic model was constructed using LASSO Cox regression and validated in independent cohorts. Single-cell analysis revealed marked immune remodeling under intermittent hypoxia (IH), including expansion of effector T cells, and monocytes/macrophages, populations alongside reduced B cells and dendritic cells. In human LUAD cohorts, stemness-high tumors were associated with mitochondrial and metabolic stress-related transcriptional programs, and increased expression of immune checkpoint genes (PD-1, PD-L1, CTLA4, LAG3). Elevated stemness scores correlated with higher TIDE scores, poorer overall survival, and reduced predicted responsiveness to immunotherapy. LASSO modeling identified a six-gene stemness signature (EIF5A, MELTF, SEMA3C, CPS1, TCN1, SELENOK), that consistently stratified patients into high- and low-risk groups across TCGA and GSE31210 cohorts. Multivariate Cox regression confirmed the risk score as an independent prognostic factor. Drug sensitivity analyses further suggested that stemness-high tumors may exhibit increased susceptibility to selected kinase inhibitors (Dasatinib, A-770041) and metabolic modulators (Phenformin, Salubrinal). OSA-associated IH is linked to stemness-associated transcriptional plasticity, immune suppression, and adverse clinical outcomes in lung cancer. The identified stemness-based gene signature provides a robust prognostic biomarker and highlights potential therapeutic vulnerabilities, supporting integrative strategies that combine stemness and immune -targeted approaches with immunotherapy in OSA-associated lung cancer. Show less
Atherosclerosis is considered as a major contributor for cardiovascular disease with high morbidity and mortality globally. However, the cross-talk between efferocytosis and inflammation in atheroscle Show more
Atherosclerosis is considered as a major contributor for cardiovascular disease with high morbidity and mortality globally. However, the cross-talk between efferocytosis and inflammation in atherosclerosis remains elusive. ApoE (apolipoprotein E) YY1 and NEDD4L were upregulated, but MerTK was downregulated in the arteries of ApoE Our findings demonstrated that YY1 positively regulated NEDD4L to modulate MerTK-mediated efferocytosis and activate NLRP3-mediated inflammation and pyroptosis, thus exacerbating atherosclerosis. Show less
Recent studies have indicated that stem cells could provide therapeutic benefits in several neurological conditions, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) offer many a Show more
Recent studies have indicated that stem cells could provide therapeutic benefits in several neurological conditions, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) offer many advantages in that they are readily available from individual hosts, are robust, and secrete many factors that promote neuronal growth and homeostasis. We transfected ADSCs with a viral construct for brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and examined the effects of transplanting these cells into the hippocampus of 7-mo-old APPswe/PS1dE9 mice. After 6 mo, the hippocampus was examined for stem-cell survival, effects on BDNF and neprilysin-2 (NEP-2) levels, dendritic morphology using microtubule associated protein 2 (MAP2) immunohistochemistry, and amyloid plaque load. We found that transplanted BDNF-ADSCs had survived after 6 mo. BDNF and NEP-2 levels were higher than sham controls, and dendritic architecture was improved. In addition, amyloid plaque numbers were reduced. BDNF-ADSCs appear to confer benefits by simultaneously enhancing amyloid clearance and promoting neuronal structural repair. This multifaceted approach highlights the potential of engineering stem cells to target multiple pathophysiological hallmarks of AD, positioning BDNF-ADSCs as a powerful and synergistic cell-gene therapy strategy for this devastating disorder. Show less
Serous endometrial cancer (SEC) is an aggressive subtype of endometrial cancer (EC) with poor prognosis and limited treatment options. Here, we developed a clinically relevant, immunocompetent serous- Show more
Serous endometrial cancer (SEC) is an aggressive subtype of endometrial cancer (EC) with poor prognosis and limited treatment options. Here, we developed a clinically relevant, immunocompetent serous-like mouse model incorporating oncogenic Show less
Major depressive disorder (MDD) in adolescents is a critical public health concern, yet objective diagnostic biomarkers remain lacking. We conducted an integrative lipidomics study across human cohort Show more
Major depressive disorder (MDD) in adolescents is a critical public health concern, yet objective diagnostic biomarkers remain lacking. We conducted an integrative lipidomics study across human cohorts and a chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) rat model. Targeted UPLC-MS/MS profiling was applied to a training cohort (95 MDD, 40 controls), and untargeted UPLC-HRMS profiling to an independent cohort (56 MDD, 37 controls). Candidate biomarkers were identified using univariate tests, partial least squares discriminant analysis, and three feature-selection methods (Boruta, LASSO, RFE), with predictive performance evaluated by cross-validation and external replication. Translational relevance was examined in CUMS rats through behavioral assays and lipidomic profiling of serum and brain tissues. Pathway enrichment and regression models explored metabolic context and clinical associations. In the training cohort, we found that 244 lipids were significantly altered, highlighting altered glycerophospholipid, glycerolipid, and sphingolipid metabolism. A 29-lipid panel achieved 90.4% cross-validation accuracy, while a reduced 7-lipid subset reached 94.8%. In the validation cohort, an 8-lipid panel achieved 71.2% accuracy, and a minimal 2-lipid set-LPA(18:2) and SPH(d16:1)-reached 72.1%. Cross-species analysis confirmed consistent downregulation of SPH(d16:1) in serum of both humans and rats, and of LPC(0:0/16:0) specifically in the rat prefrontal cortex. Regression analyses linked sex, age, and anxiety severity to lipid alterations. This cross-platform, cross-species study identifies reproducible lipid signatures of adolescent MDD, highlights SPH(d16:1) and LPC(0:0/16:0) as translational biomarkers, and implicates glycerophospholipid metabolism in MDD pathophysiology, providing a foundation for biomarker-guided diagnostics and therapeutics. Show less