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
Although progress has been made in the treatment of LAUD, the survival rate for patients remains poor. An in-depth grasp of the molecular pathways implicated in LUAD progression is vital for improving Show more
Although progress has been made in the treatment of LAUD, the survival rate for patients remains poor. An in-depth grasp of the molecular pathways implicated in LUAD progression is vital for improving diagnosis and treatment strategies. This study aims to explore novel molecular mechanisms driving LUAD progression and identify new potential prognostic biomarkers for LAUD patients. Based on mass spectrometry analysis of human LUAD tissues, HNRNPD and MAD2L2 were identified as potential key proteins involved in LUAD progression. Subsequently, the interplay between HNRNPD and MAD2L2 was examined through dual-luciferase reporter assays, RNA-seq analysis, and various molecular biology techniques. Ultimately, the role of the HNRNPD/MAD2L2 axis in LUAD advancement and its potential as a prognostic indicator were investigated utilizing LUAD specimens, cell lines, and xenograft mouse models. In human LAUD tissues and cell lines, elevated levels of HNRNPD and MAD2L2 proteins were discovered. It was determined that HNRNPD binds to the MAD2L2 promoter, forming a regulatory axis at the transcriptional level. Subsequently, both in vitro and in vivo data demonstrated that the downregulation of the HNRNPD/MAD2L2 axis inhibited LUAD progression, while this effect could be rescued by MAD2L2 upregulation. Conversely, the upregulation of the HNRNPD/MAD2L2 axis facilitated LUAD progression, and this outcome could be reversed by MAD2L2 knockdown. Mechanistically, the downregulation of HNRNPD suppressed the promoter activity and transcription of MAD2L2, thus inhibiting the PI3K/HIF1α/ANGPTL4 pathway and tumor angiogenesis. Finally, it was confirmed that LUAD patients with high levels of both HNRNPD and MAD2L2 exhibited the poorest prognosis. Therefore, the HNRNPD/MAD2L2 axis has been identified as a potential predictive indicator for LUAD patients. The HNRNPD/MAD2L2 axis facilitates LUAD progression and serves as a potential prognostic biomarker. Show less
Prenatal exposure to perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) is associated with adverse health effects, including congenital heart disease, yet the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Herein, we aimed to e Show more
Prenatal exposure to perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) is associated with adverse health effects, including congenital heart disease, yet the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Herein, we aimed to evaluate the embryotoxicity of PFOS using C57BL/6 J mice to characterize fetal heart defects after PFOS exposure, with the induction of human embryonic stem cells (hESC) into cardiomyocytes (CMs) as a model of early-stage heart development. We also performed DNA methylation analysis to clarify potential underlying mechanisms and identify targets of PFOS. Our results revealed that PFOS caused septal defects and excessive ventricular trabeculation cardiomyopathy at 5 mg/kg/day in embryonic mice and inhibited the proliferation and pluripotency of ESCs at concentrations >20 μM. Moreover, it decreased the beating rate and the population of CMs during cardiac differentiation. Decreases were observed in the abundances of NPPA+ trabecular and HEY2+ compact CMs. Additionally, DNA methyl transferases and ten-eleven translocation (TET) dioxygenases were regulated dynamically by PFOS, with TETs inhibitor treatment inducing significant decreases similar as PFOS. 850 K DNA methylation analysis combined with expression analysis revealed several potential targets of PFOS, including SORBS2, FHOD1, SLIT2, SLIT3, ADCY9, and HDAC9. In conclusion, PFOS may reprogram DNA methylation, especially demethylation, to induce cardiac toxicity, causing ventricular defects in vivo and abnormal cardiac differentiation in vitro. Show less
Dysfunction of pancreatic δ cells contributes to the etiology of diabetes. Despite their important role, human δ cells are scarce, limiting physiological studies and drug discovery targeting δ cells. Show more
Dysfunction of pancreatic δ cells contributes to the etiology of diabetes. Despite their important role, human δ cells are scarce, limiting physiological studies and drug discovery targeting δ cells. To date, no directed δ-cell differentiation method has been established. Here, we demonstrate that fibroblast growth factor (FGF) 7 promotes pancreatic endoderm/progenitor differentiation, whereas FGF2 biases cells towards the pancreatic δ-cell lineage via FGF receptor 1. We develop a differentiation method to generate δ cells from human stem cells by combining FGF2 with FGF7, which synergistically directs pancreatic lineage differentiation and modulates the expression of transcription factors and SST activators during endoderm/endocrine precursor induction. These δ cells display mature RNA profiles and fine secretory granules, secrete somatostatin in response to various stimuli, and suppress insulin secretion from in vitro co-cultured β cells and mouse β cells upon transplantation. The generation of human pancreatic δ cells from stem cells in vitro would provide an unprecedented cell source for drug discovery and cell transplantation studies in diabetes. Show less
The serotonin 2C receptor (5-HT2CR)-melanocortin pathway plays well-established roles in the regulation of feeding behavior and body weight homeostasis. Dysfunctions in this system, such as loss-of-fu Show more
The serotonin 2C receptor (5-HT2CR)-melanocortin pathway plays well-established roles in the regulation of feeding behavior and body weight homeostasis. Dysfunctions in this system, such as loss-of-function mutations in the Htr2c gene, can lead to hyperphagia and obesity. In this study, we aimed to investigate the potential therapeutic strategies for ameliorating hyperphagia, hyperglycemia, and obesity associated with a loss-of-function mutation in the Htr2c gene (Htr2cF327L/Y). We demonstrated that reexpressing functional 5-HT2CR solely in hypothalamic pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons is sufficient to reduce food intake and body weight in Htr2cF327L/Y mice subjected to a high-fat diet (HFD). In addition, 5-HT2CR expression restores the responsiveness of POMC neurons to lorcaserin, a selective agonist for 5-HT2CR. Similarly, administration of melanotan II, an agonist of the melanocortin receptor 4 (MC4R), effectively suppresses feeding and weight gain in Htr2cF327L/Y mice. Strikingly, promoting wheel-running activity in Htr2cF327L/Y mice results in a decrease in HFD consumption and improved glucose homeostasis. Together, our findings underscore the crucial role of the melanocortin system in alleviating hyperphagia and obesity related to dysfunctions of the 5-HT2CR, and further suggest that MC4R agonists and lifestyle interventions might hold promise in counteracting hyperphagia, hyperglycemia, and obesity in individuals carrying rare variants of the Htr2c gene. Show less
Unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss (URPL) is a clinical dilemma in reproductive fields. Its diagnosis is mainly exclusionary after extensive clinical examination, and some of the patients may still Show more
Unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss (URPL) is a clinical dilemma in reproductive fields. Its diagnosis is mainly exclusionary after extensive clinical examination, and some of the patients may still face the risk of miscarriage. We analyzed follicular fluid (FF) from Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis showed that the DEPs are involved in the biological processes (BP) of complement and coagulation cascades. Apolipoproteins (APOs) are key proteins in the PPI network. ELISA confirmed that APOB was low-expressed in both the FF and peripheral blood of URPL patients. Dysregulation of the immune network intersecting coagulation and inflammatory response is an essential feature of URPL, and this disequilibrium exists as early as the oogenesis stage. Therefore, earlier intervention is necessary to prevent the development of URPL. Moreover, aberrant lipoprotein regulation appears to be a key factor contributing to URPL. The mechanism by which these factors are involved in the complement and coagulation cascade pathways remains to be further investigated, which also provides new candidate targets for URPL treatment. Show less
The interleukin (IL) plays a role in the development of acute pancreatitis (AP). However, the specific IL in AP has not been fully revealed. Therefore, the association between prospective IL and AP wa Show more
The interleukin (IL) plays a role in the development of acute pancreatitis (AP). However, the specific IL in AP has not been fully revealed. Therefore, the association between prospective IL and AP was studied via Mendelian randomization (MR). The HUGO Gene nomenclature committee (HGNC) database provided 47 interleukin related genes (ILRGs). ILRGs and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from GSE194331 were overlapped to create differently expressed ILRGs (DE-ILRGs). The integrative epidemiology unit (IEU) open genome-wide association study (GWAS) database provided exposure and outcome datasets. Univariate MR (UVMR) analysis using MR-Egger, IVW, simple mode, and weighted mode was done. UVMR results were verified using sensitivity analysis. Drug prediction, MVMR analysis, and PPI network development were also performed. Six DE-ILRGs were obtained. IL27 and IL1RN were substantially causally linked with AP by UVMR analysis (OR = 0.926, P < 0.001 and OR = 1.031, P = 0.023). Our sensitivity analysis showed the dependability of our results. Direct effect of IL27 was suggested by MVMR analysis. In the cytokine receptor binding pathway, IL27 and IL1RN interacted with IL36G and IL1R2. TAE-684, ARQ-680, and 12 other IL1RN and 14 IL27 medications were predicted. IL1RN was identified as a risk factor for acute pancreatitis (AP), but IL27 was found to be a protective factor for AP. Show less
Tripartite motif-containing protein 50 (TRIM50) is a recently discovered E3 ubiquitin ligase that participates in tumor progression. TRIM50 is overexpressed in many cancers, although few studies focus Show more
Tripartite motif-containing protein 50 (TRIM50) is a recently discovered E3 ubiquitin ligase that participates in tumor progression. TRIM50 is overexpressed in many cancers, although few studies focused on TRIM50's role in breast cancer. We overexpressed TRIM50 in triple-negative breast cancer cell lines using plasmid and found that TRIM50 upregulation markedly reduced breast cancer cell proliferation, clone formation, and migration, as well as promoted breast cancer cell apoptosis. Western blotting revealed that accumulated TRIM50 resulted in both mRNA and protein depletion of SNAI1, and partially attenuated the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) induced by SNAI1. In this study, we demonstrate that TRIM50 is downregulated in human breast cancer and that its overexpression closely correlates with diminished invasion capacity in breast cancer, suggesting that TRIM50 may serve as a diagnostic marker and therapeutic target. TRIM50 plays a key role in breast cancer proliferation and potentially serves as a prognostic and therapeutic target. Show less
Lysosomal-associated protein transmembrane 5 (LAPTM5) is increased in tubular epithelial cells in CKD. Conditional knockout of Tubular senescence is a major determinant of CKD, and identification of p Show more
Lysosomal-associated protein transmembrane 5 (LAPTM5) is increased in tubular epithelial cells in CKD. Conditional knockout of Tubular senescence is a major determinant of CKD, and identification of potential therapeutic targets involved in senescent tubular epithelial cells has clinical importance. Lysosomal-associated protein transmembrane 5 (LAPTM5) is a key molecule related to T- and B-cell receptor expression and inflammation. However, the expression pattern of LAPTM5 in the kidney and the contribution of LAPTM5 to the development of CKD are unknown. LAPTM5 expression was significantly induced in the kidney, especially in proximal tubules and distal convoluted tubules, from mice with aristolochic acid nephropathy, bilateral ischemia/reperfusion injury–induced CKD, or unilateral ureter obstruction. Tubule-specific deletion of LAPTM5 contributed to tubular senescence by regulating the WWP2/notch1 intracellular domain signaling pathway and exacerbated kidney injury during the progression of CKD. Show less
Neuroendocrine prostate cancer (PCa) (NEPC), an aggressive subtype that is associated with poor prognosis, may arise after androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). We investigated the molecular mechanisms Show more
Neuroendocrine prostate cancer (PCa) (NEPC), an aggressive subtype that is associated with poor prognosis, may arise after androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). We investigated the molecular mechanisms by which ADT induces neuroendocrine differentiation in advanced PCa. We found that transmembrane protein 1 (MCTP1), which has putative Ca Show less
Meng Han Liu, Yong Tang, Li Qun Qu+11 more · 2024 · Phytomedicine : international journal of phytotherapy and phytopharmacology · Elsevier · added 2026-04-24
Raddeanin A is a triterpenoid isolated from Anemone raddeana Regel. It exhibits a broad spectrum of biological activities such as anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory, however, its neuroprotective effect Show more
Raddeanin A is a triterpenoid isolated from Anemone raddeana Regel. It exhibits a broad spectrum of biological activities such as anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory, however, its neuroprotective effect in targeting Alzheimer's disease (AD) remains uninvestigated. To provide scientific base for the development of novel AD drug by clarifying the neuroprotective effect and molecular mechanisms of raddeanin A in both in vitro and in vivo AD model. To confirm the neuroprotective role of raddeanin A in the treatment of AD, its mechanisms and effects on β-amyloidosis and Aβ fibrillation was studied in U87 cells. Besides, the improvement on cognitive deficit, pathological defects, reactive astrocyte clusters, inhibition on neuronal inflammation and apoptosis were further studied in 3 x Tg-AD mice model of AD. Real-time PCR, western blot, dot blot, biolayer interferometry and bioinformatics analysis were used to confirm the in vitro effect and targets of raddeanin A on β-amyloidosis and its associated protein network. A series of experiments including Morris water maze, H&E staining, nissl staining and immunofluorescence analysis were conducted to confirm the protective behavioral effect of raddeanin A in the in vivo AD mice model. Raddeanin A was identified to reduce β-amyloidosis in U87 cells and 3 x Tg-AD mice model of AD by decreasing level of BACE1, APP, APP-β and Aβ. Raddeanin A improved behavioral, spatial memory and learning ability in the AD mice. In the cortex and hippocampus, raddeanin A improved the morphology and arrangement of neurons, lower the level of reactive astrocyte marker GFAP and apoptotic marker proteins Bax/Bcl2 ratio. Moreover, raddeanin A upregulated the mRNA and protein level of Prkcα in the hippocampus of AD mice whose neuroprotective effect was exerted possibly via the activation of protein kinase C. As a novel natural agent targeting β-amyloidosis, our results provide the first evidence of the multiple in vitro and in vivo neuroprotective effect of raddeanin A, suggesting its potential therapeutic application in preventing or alleviating the symptoms of AD. Show less
Dyslipidemia plays a very important role in the occurrence and development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Genetic factors, including single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), are one of the main risks Show more
Dyslipidemia plays a very important role in the occurrence and development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Genetic factors, including single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), are one of the main risks of dyslipidemia. 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase (HMGCR) is not only the rate-limiting enzyme step of endogenous cholesterol production, but also the therapeutic target of statins. We investigated 405 Han Chinese and 373 Uyghur people who took statins for a period of time, recorded their blood lipid levels and baseline data before and after oral statin administration, and extracted DNA from each subject for SNP typing of In this study, for rs17671591, the CC We found that Show less
This study aims to investigate the impact of semaglutide on the expression of liver cancer proteins in obese mice induced by a high-fat diet. Sixteen obese mice were randomly divided into two groups: Show more
This study aims to investigate the impact of semaglutide on the expression of liver cancer proteins in obese mice induced by a high-fat diet. Sixteen obese mice were randomly divided into two groups: the high-fat diet group and the semaglutide group, each consisting of eight mice. Additionally, eight normal male mice were included as the control group. Serum samples were collected, and a differential expression analysis of total proteins in adipose tissue was performed using quantitative tandem mass spectrometry (TMT) in combination with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Significant differential proteins were identified and subjected to a bioinformatics analysis. The findings revealed that these differential proteins, namely, integrin αV (ITGAV), laminin γ1 (LAMC1), fatty acid-binding protein 5 (FABP5), and lipoprotein lipase (LPL), regulate the occurrence and development of liver cancer by participating in the extracellular matrix (ECM) signaling pathway and the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) signaling pathway. Notably, semaglutide can decelerate the progression of liver cancer by inducing the expression of ITGAV, LAMC1, FABP5, and LPL in the adipose tissue of obese mice. Show less
Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common subtype of invasive non-Hodgkin lymphoma. 60-70% of patients are curable with current chemoimmunotherapy, whereas the rest are refractory or re Show more
Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common subtype of invasive non-Hodgkin lymphoma. 60-70% of patients are curable with current chemoimmunotherapy, whereas the rest are refractory or relapsed. Understanding of the interaction between DLBCL cells and tumor microenvironment raises the hope of improving overall survival of DLBCL patients. P2X7, a member of purinergic receptors P2X family, is activated by extracellular ATP and subsequently promotes the progression of various malignancies. However, its role in DLBCL has not been elucidated. In this study, the expression level of P2RX7 in DLBCL patients and cell lines was analyzed. MTS assay and EdU incorporation assay were carried out to study the effect of activated/inhibited P2X7 signaling on the proliferation of DLBCL cells. Bulk RNAseq was performed to explore potential mechanism. The results demonstrated high level expression of P2RX7 in DLBCL patients, typically in patients with relapse DLBCL. 2'(3')-O-(4-benzoylbenzoyl) adenosine 5-triphosphate (Bz-ATP), an agonist of P2X7, significantly accelerated the proliferation of DLBCL cells, whereas delayed proliferation was detected when administrated with antagonist A740003. Furthermore, a urea cycle enzyme named CPS1 (carbamoyl phosphate synthase 1), which up-regulated in P2X7-activated DLBCL cells while down-regulated in P2X7-inhibited group, was demonstrated to involve in such process. Our study reveals the role of P2X7 in the proliferation of DLBCL cells and implies that P2X7 may serve as a potential molecular target for the treatment of DLBCL. Show less
Heart failure (HF), an end-stage clinical syndrome secondary to cardiac impairment, significantly affects patients' quality of life and long-term prognosis. Myocardial fibrosis leads to systolic and d Show more
Heart failure (HF), an end-stage clinical syndrome secondary to cardiac impairment, significantly affects patients' quality of life and long-term prognosis. Myocardial fibrosis leads to systolic and diastolic dysfunction, and promotes the progression of HF. Several studies involving the modulation of myocardial fibrosis have been conducted in an effort to improve cardiac function. Heat shock protein 27 (HSP27) is a small chaperone protein that is overexpressed in cellular stress states. HSP27 modulates epithelial-mesenchymal transition, playing a crucial role in the pathology of several fibrotic diseases. However, its association with myocardial fibrosis regulation is unknown. This study aimed to investigate the mechanisms by which HSP27 regulates myocardial fibrosis. We created cardiac-specific HSP25 (the murine ortholog of human HSP27) knockout mice and found that HSP25 knockdown inhibited endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndMT), attenuated myocardial fibrosis, and ameliorated diastolic dysfunction in isoproterenol-induced HF mice via echocardiography, histology, and western bloting. In vitro, HSP27 knockdown attenuated transforming growth factor beta-induced EndMT, whereas HSP27 overexpression promoted EndMT. Furthermore, the SMAD3/SNAIL1 pathway was found to be crucial for HSP27-mediated EndMT regulation. As an essential molecule in EndMT regulation and myocardial fibrosis modulation, HSP27 may hold promise as a therapeutic target for patients with HF. Show less
The 8p11 myeloproliferative syndrome (EMS), a rare disorder characterized by translocations and interchanges at chromosome 8p11, is usually refractory to chemotherapy, and allogeneic hematopoietic ste Show more
The 8p11 myeloproliferative syndrome (EMS), a rare disorder characterized by translocations and interchanges at chromosome 8p11, is usually refractory to chemotherapy, and allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) is currently the only promising treatment for long-term remission. Among 14 translocation partners associated with EMS, t(1;8)(q25;p11) are very uncommon, with only four cases previously reported in peer-reviewed journals in English. Here we report a 43-year-old man who presented with atypical peripheral T-cell lymphomas. Translocations between chromosomes 1q25 and 8p11 were detected during a bone marrow karyotype examination of 20 metaphases, and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) revealed a positive rearrangement for the FGFR1 locus, confirming the diagnosis of EMS with t(1;8)(q25;p11). Despite rapid disease progression, he maintained remission for 27 months after admission due to aggressive chemotherapy combined with early allogeneic peripheral blood stem cell transplantation. We also conducted a literature review for 12 EMS patients treated with allo-HSCT who had rare karyotypes to better understand their clinicopathologic features and disease management. we report the first case of EMS with t(1;8)(q25;p11) to have a favorable outcome after allo-HSCT. The encouraging results support the use of aggressive chemotherapy in conjunction with early allo-HSCT for EMS patients with t(1;8)(q25;p11). Show less
Sisi Zheng, Sitong Feng, Nan Song+8 more · 2024 · The world journal of biological psychiatry : the official journal of the World Federation of Societies of Biological Psychiatry · Taylor & Francis · added 2026-04-24
Depersonalisation-derealization disorder (DPD) is a dissociative disorder that impairs cognitive function and occupational performance. Emerging evidence indicate the levels of tumour necrosis factor- Show more
Depersonalisation-derealization disorder (DPD) is a dissociative disorder that impairs cognitive function and occupational performance. Emerging evidence indicate the levels of tumour necrosis factor-α and interleukin associated with the dissociative symptoms. In this study, we aimed to explore the role of the immune system in the pathology of DPD. We screened the protein expression in serum samples of 30 DPD patients and 32 healthy controls. Using a mass spectrometry-based proteomic approach, we identified differential proteins that were verified in another group of 25 DPD patients and 30 healthy controls using immune assays. Finally, we performed a correlation analysis between the expression of differential proteins and clinical symptoms of patients with DPD. We identified several dysregulated proteins in patients with DPD compared to HCs, including decreased levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), complement C1q subcomponent subunit B, apolipoprotein A-IV, and increased levels of alpha-1-antichymotrypsin (SERPINA3). Moreover, the expression of CRP was positively correlated with visuospatial memory and the ability to inhibit cognitive interference of DPD. The expression of SERPINA3 was positively correlated with the ability to inhibit cognitive interference and negatively correlated with the perceptual alterations of DPD. The dysregulation of the immune system may be the underlying biological mechanism in DPD. And the expressions of CRP and SERPINA3 can be the potential predictors for the cognitive performance of DPD. Show less
Men taking antioxidant vitamin E supplements have increased prostate cancer (PC) risk. However, whether pro-oxidants protect from PC remained unclear. In this work, we show that a pro-oxidant vitamin Show more
Men taking antioxidant vitamin E supplements have increased prostate cancer (PC) risk. However, whether pro-oxidants protect from PC remained unclear. In this work, we show that a pro-oxidant vitamin K precursor [menadione sodium bisulfite (MSB)] suppresses PC progression in mice, killing cells through an oxidative cell death: MSB antagonizes the essential class III phosphatidylinositol (PI) 3-kinase VPS34-the regulator of endosome identity and sorting-through oxidation of key cysteines, pointing to a redox checkpoint in sorting. Testing MSB in a myotubular myopathy model that is driven by loss of Show less
The discovery of antigen phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) in 2009 ushered in the antigen-based study of membranous nephropathy. The further putative antigen exostosin 1/2 (EXT1/2) was described in 20 Show more
The discovery of antigen phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) in 2009 ushered in the antigen-based study of membranous nephropathy. The further putative antigen exostosin 1/2 (EXT1/2) was described in 2019. However, the distribution spectrum of glomerular EXT1 deposits in membranous nephropathy has not been fully elucidated. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of biopsy-proven membranous nephropathy patients. Patients with complete baseline data and adequate tissue specimens were included in this study. Tests for glomerular expression of PLA2R and EXT1 and circulating anti-PLA2R antibodies were performed. Clinicopathological and outcome data were reviewed. We included 626 patients, namely, 487 (77.8%) PLA2R-positive patients and 54 (8.6%) EXT1-positive patients; 32 (5.1%) patients were dual-positive for PLA2R and EXT1 (PLA2R + /EXT1 +). A higher percentage of dual-positive patients had low C3 levels (P < 0.001) and were more likely to have autoimmune diseases (P = 0.013) than PLA2R-positive and EXT1-negative (PLA2R + /EXT1-) patients. Kidney biopsy findings revealed that there was a higher percentage of glomerular IgG1, IgG2, IgA, C4, and C1q deposits (P < 0.05), "full-house" staining (P < 0.001), and stronger intensity of C1q staining (P = 0.002) in PLA2R + /EXT1 + patients. Based on Kaplan-Meier analysis, a higher percentage of PLA2R + /EXT1 + patients exhibited partial or complete remission of proteinuria. Furthermore, EXT1-positive expression was a favourable predictor for proteinuria remission, whereas interstitial fibrosis/tubular atrophy was an unfavourable predictor. A complement C3 level < 0.79 g/L was independently associated with EXT1 positivity in PLA2R-positive membranous nephropathy. We describe a subgroup of PLA2R and EXT1 dual-positive patients. Patients in this subset exhibited more signs of autoimmunity and more frequent clinical remission. In PLA2R-positive membranous nephropathy, a complement C3 level < 0.79 g/L was independently associated with EXT1 positivity, which was a favourable predictor for proteinuria remission. Show less
Analyzing blood lipid and bile acid profile changes in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. Evaluating the integrated model's diagnostic significance for CRC. Ninety-one individuals with colorectal cance Show more
Analyzing blood lipid and bile acid profile changes in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. Evaluating the integrated model's diagnostic significance for CRC. Ninety-one individuals with colorectal cancer (CRC group) and 120 healthy volunteers (HC group) were selected for comparison. Serum levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and apolipoproteins (Apo) A1, ApoA2, ApoB, ApoC2, and ApoC3 were measured using immunoturbidimetric and colorimetric methods. Additionally, LC-MS/MS was employed to detect fifteen bile acids in the serum, along with six tumor markers: carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), carbohydrate antigens (CA) 125, CA19-9, CA242, CA50, and CA72-4. Group comparisons utilized independent sample t-tests and Mann-Whitney U tests. A binary logistic regression algorithm was applied to fit the indicators and establish a screening model; the diagnostic accuracy of individual Indicators and the model was analyzed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. The CRC group showed significantly lower levels in eight serum lipid indicators and eleven bile acids compared to the HC group (P < 0.05). Conversely, serum levels of TG, CA19-9, and CEA were elevated (P < 0.05). Among the measured parameters, ApoA2 stands out for its strong correlation with the presence of CRC, showcasing exceptional screening efficacy with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.957, a sensitivity of 85.71%, and a specificity of 93.33%. The screening model, integrating ApoA1, ApoA2, lithocholic acid (LCA), and CEA, attained an impressive AUC of 0.995, surpassing the diagnostic accuracy of individual lipids, bile acids, and tumor markers. CRC patients manifest noteworthy alterations in both blood lipids and bile acid profiles. A screening model incorporating ApoA1, ApoA2, LCA, and CEA provides valuable insights for detecting CRC. Show less
Blood always shows coagulation changes after spinal cord injury (SCI), and identifying these blood changes may be helpful for diagnosis and treatment of SCI. Nevertheless, studies to date on blood coa Show more
Blood always shows coagulation changes after spinal cord injury (SCI), and identifying these blood changes may be helpful for diagnosis and treatment of SCI. Nevertheless, studies to date on blood coagulation changes after SCI in humans are not comprehensive. Therefore, this study aims to identify blood coagulation diagnostic biomarkers and immune changes related to SCI and its severity levels. Human blood sequencing datasets were obtained from public databases. Differentially expressed coagulation-related genes were analyzed (DECRGs). Enrichment analysis and assessment of immune changes were conducted. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator logistic regression were used to identify biomarkers. Validation for these biomarkers was performed. The correlation between biomarkers and immune cells was evaluated. Transcription factors, miRNA, lncRNA, and drugs that can regulate biomarkers were analyzed. DECRGs associated with SCI and its different grades were identified, showing enrichment in altered coagulation and immune-related signaling pathways. ADAM9, CD55, and STAT4 were identified as coagulation diagnostic biomarkers for SCI. IRF4 and PABPC4 were identified as coagulation diagnostic biomarkers for American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale (AIS) A grade of SCI. GP9 was designated as a diagnostic biomarker for AIS D grade of SCI. Immune changes in blood of SCI and its different grades were observed. Correlation between diagnostic biomarkers and immune cells were identified. Transcription factors, miRNA, lncRNA, and drugs that can regulate diagnostic biomarker expression were discovered. Therefore, detecting the expression of these putative diagnostic biomarkers and related immune changes may be helpful for predicting the severity of SCI. Uncovering potential regulatory mechanisms for biomarkers may be beneficial for further research. Show less
Although platinum-based chemotherapy is the frontline regimen for colorectal cancer (CRC), drug resistance remains a major challenge affecting its therapeutic efficiency. However, there is limited res Show more
Although platinum-based chemotherapy is the frontline regimen for colorectal cancer (CRC), drug resistance remains a major challenge affecting its therapeutic efficiency. However, there is limited research on the correlation between chemotherapy resistance and lipid metabolism, including PIK3CA mutant tumors. In this present study, we found that PIK3CA-E545K mutation attenuated cell apoptosis and increased the cell viability of CRC with L-OHP treatment Show less
Bis-chalcone compounds with symmetrical structures, either isolated from natural products or chemically synthesized, have multiple pharmacological activities. Asymmetric Bis-chalcone compounds have no Show more
Bis-chalcone compounds with symmetrical structures, either isolated from natural products or chemically synthesized, have multiple pharmacological activities. Asymmetric Bis-chalcone compounds have not been reported before, which might be attributed to the synthetic challenges involved, and it remains unknown whether these compounds possess any potential pharmacological activities. The aim of this study is to investigate the synthesis route of asymmetric bis-chalcone compounds and identify potential candidates with efficient anti-tumor activity. The two-step structural optimization of the bis-chalcone compounds was carried out sequentially, guided by the screening of the compounds for their growth inhibitory activity against gastric cancer cells by MTT assay. The QSAR model of compounds was established through random forest (RF) algorithm. The activities of the optimal compound J3 on growth inhibition, apoptosis, and apoptosis-inducing protein expression in gastric cancer cells were investigated sequentially by colony formation assay, flow cytometry, and western blotting. Further, the inhibitory effects of J3 on the FGFR1 signaling pathway were explored by Western Blotting, shRNA, and MTT assays. Finally, the 27 asymmetric bis-chalcone compounds, including two types (N and J) were sequentially designed and synthesized. Some N-class compounds have good inhibitory activity on the growth of gastric cancer cells. The vast majority of J-class compounds optimized on the basis of N3 exhibit excellent inhibitory activity on gastric cancer cell growth. We established a QSAR model (R In summary, this study outlines a viable method for the synthesis of novel asymmetric bischalcone compounds. Furthermore, the compound J3 demonstrates substantial promise as a potential candidate for an anti-tumor drug. Show less
Bacterial meningitis remains a leading cause of infection-related mortality worldwide. Although Escherichia coli (E. coli) is the most common etiology of neonatal meningitis, the underlying mechanisms Show more
Bacterial meningitis remains a leading cause of infection-related mortality worldwide. Although Escherichia coli (E. coli) is the most common etiology of neonatal meningitis, the underlying mechanisms governing bacterial blood-brain barrier (BBB) disruption during infection remain elusive. We observed that infection of human brain microvascular endothelial cells with meningitic E. coli triggers the activation of early growth response 1 (Egr-1), a host transcriptional activator. Through integrated chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing and transcriptome analysis, we identified Egr-1 as a crucial regulator for maintaining BBB integrity. Mechanistically, Egr-1 induced cytoskeletal changes and downregulated tight junction protein expression by directly targeting VEGFA, PDGFB, and ANGPTL4, resulting in increased BBB permeability. Meanwhile, Egr-1 also served as a master regulator in the initiation of neuroinflammatory response during meningitic E. coli infection. Our findings support an Egr-1-dependent mechanism of BBB disruption by meningitic E. coli, highlighting a promising therapeutic target for bacterial meningitis. Show less
It is crucial to understand the glucose control within our bodies. Bariatric/metabolic surgeries, including laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), provide an avenue Show more
It is crucial to understand the glucose control within our bodies. Bariatric/metabolic surgeries, including laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), provide an avenue for exploring the potential key factors involved in maintaining glucose homeostasis since these surgeries have shown promising results in improving glycemic control among patients with severe type 2 diabetes (T2D). For the first time, a markedly altered population of serum proteins in patients after LSG was discovered and analyzed through proteomics. Apolipoprotein A-IV (apoA-IV) was revealed to be increased dramatically in diabetic obese patients following LSG, and a similar effect was observed in patients after RYGB surgery. Moreover, recombinant apoA-IV protein treatment was proven to enhance insulin secretion in isolated human islets. These results showed that apoA-IV may play a crucial role in glycemic control in humans, potentially through enhancing insulin secretion in human islets. ApoA-IV was further shown to enhance energy expenditure and improve glucose tolerance in diabetic rodents, through stimulating glucose-dependent insulin secretion in pancreatic β cells, partially via Gαs-coupled GPCR/cAMP (G protein-coupled receptor/cyclic adenosine monophosphate) signaling. Furthermore, T55-121, truncated peptide 55-121 of apoA-IV, was discovered to mediate the function of apoA-IV. These collective findings contribute to our understanding of the relationship between apoA-IV and glycemic control, highlighting its potential as a biomarker or therapeutic target in managing and improving glucose regulation. Show less
The most prevalent hip disease in neonates is developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). A timely and accurate diagnosis is required to provide the most effective treatment for pediatric patients with Show more
The most prevalent hip disease in neonates is developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). A timely and accurate diagnosis is required to provide the most effective treatment for pediatric patients with DDH. Heredity and gene variation have been the subject of increased attention and research worldwide as one of the factors contributing to the pathogenesis of DDH. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS), genome-wide linkage analyses (GWLA), and exome sequencing (ES) have identified variants in numerous genes and single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) as being associated with susceptibility to DDH in sporadic and DDH family patients. Furthermore, the DDH phenotype can be observed in animal models that exhibit susceptibility genes or loci, including variants in Show less
Interleukin-27 receptor (IL-27R) is expressed in a variety of immune cells and structural cells, including dendritic cells. The mechanism of IL-27 in asthma has not been fully elucidated. This study a Show more
Interleukin-27 receptor (IL-27R) is expressed in a variety of immune cells and structural cells, including dendritic cells. The mechanism of IL-27 in asthma has not been fully elucidated. This study aimed to examine whether IL-27 regulated the CD39/ATP axis of dendritic cells in asthma. Our results showed that in ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthma mouse model, IL-27Rα Show less
Purinergic signaling plays a causal role in the modulation of immune inflammatory response in the course of psoriasis, but its regulatory mechanism remains unclear. As a member of purinoceptors, P2Y
Given the high morbidity, mortality, and hereditary risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), their prevention and control have garnered widespread attention and remain central to clinical research. Thi Show more
Given the high morbidity, mortality, and hereditary risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), their prevention and control have garnered widespread attention and remain central to clinical research. This study aims to assess the feasibility and necessity of haplotyping-based preimplantation genetic testing for the prevention of inherited CVD. A total of 15 preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic defect (PGT-M) cycles were performed in 12 CVD families from January 2016 to July 2022. All couples were affected by CVDs and carried specific causative genes (including MYH7, MYBPC3, TTN, TPM1, LMNA, KCNQ1, FBN1 and LDLR). Among the 10 couples with adequate genetic pedigree information, we utilized the karyomapping assay to obtain single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) allele data. For the 2 couples who had no reference in their family, we used single sperm next-generation sequencing (NGS) to realize haplotype construction. Linkage analysis was performed to deduce embryonic genotype, and aneuploidy was screened simultaneously. Prenatal diagnostic testing via amniocentesis at 18-22 weeks of gestation was performed to verify the genetic conditions of transferred embryos. In total, 120 embryos were examined in this study, and the results showed that only 26.7% (32/120) were mutation-free and euploid-confirmed embryos. Additionally, for female CVD patients, we convened a multidisciplinary team (MDT) to advise the couple on their fertility concerns and management measures during pregnancy and delivery. With our cooperation, 10 couples successfully obtained healthy babies not carrying the pathogenic mutations. The results of prenatal diagnostics were consistent with the results of PGT-M. Our study demonstrates that PGT-M based on haplotype analysis is reliable and necessary for the prevention of inherited CVDs. It also highlights the important value of multidisciplinary collaboration for CVD prevention and treatment. Inherited cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) present as a huge challenge for modern medical and health systems. Hundreds of genetic variants have been reported to cause CVD and the number of people with the disease is enormous and still on the rise globally. Here we recruited twelve couples suffering from inherited CVD and provided them with effective pre-implantation genetic testing for monogenic defect (PGT-M) strategy to avoid the occurrence of genetic defects in the offspring. Specifically, after embryo biopsy, we utilized karyomapping assay (for 10 couples with a family history) or next-generation sequencing (NGS) (for 2 couples having no reference in their pedigree) to obtain single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) allele data and then performed linkage analysis to deduce embryonic genotype. A total of 120 embryos from 15 PGT-M cycles were examined and 12 variants in 8 genes linked to inherited CVD were identified. Thirty-two mutation-free and euploid confirmed embryos were considered suitable for embryo transfer. Besides, for female CVD patients, we called up a multidisciplinary team (MDT) advising the couple on their fertility concerns and management measures of pregnancy and delivery. With our cooperation, 10 couples successfully obtain healthy babies not carrying the pathogenic mutations. Our study further validated the reliability of PGT-M utilizing linkage analysis as a means to prevent the transmission of genetic disorders to future generations, and offered valuable insights for multidisciplinary clinical practices on CVD. Show less
This work clarified the positive effects of pullulan on dough structure and application properties varied with its molecular weight. Pullulan with different molecular weights were introduced into doug Show more
This work clarified the positive effects of pullulan on dough structure and application properties varied with its molecular weight. Pullulan with different molecular weights were introduced into dough system to explore their intervention effects on structural and technological properties of dough as well as physical and digestion properties of biscuits. Results showed that HPL (pullulan with molecule weight of 100- 300 kDa) could increase the intermolecular collisions, prompt the protein aggregation and limit the water migration in dough system, resulting in an integrate, continuous and dense network structure of the gel with strengthened elasticity and weakened extensibility, which caused an increase in biscuit thickness, hardness and crispness. On the contrary, LPL (pullulan with molecule weight of 3- 100 kDa) could go against the formation of stable and elastic dough through breaking down cross-linkage between protein and starch so as to provide biscuits with decreased hardness and crispness during baking. Both HPL and LPL delayed starch pasting and retrogradation process while HPL had the stronger retarding effect on starch digestibility of biscuits than LPL. These findings dedicated to a better understanding of pullulan function in dough system and provide suggestions for fractionation applications of pullulan in food field. Show less