Coronary artery disease (CAD) is an immune-mediated disorder driven by dysregulated T cell responses. Interleukin-27 (IL-27) has immunoregulatory properties, but its role in CAD remains unclear. This Show more
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is an immune-mediated disorder driven by dysregulated T cell responses. Interleukin-27 (IL-27) has immunoregulatory properties, but its role in CAD remains unclear. This study is the first to investigate the effects of IL-27 on CD4⁺LAP⁺ T cells in CAD and to explore its interaction with interleukin-2 (IL-2) in modulating immune imbalance. CAD severity was quantified by the Gensini score. Plasma IL-27 and oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) were measured by ELISA. Flow cytometry assessed CD4⁺ T cell subsets, while qRT-PCR and Western blot evaluated lineage-specific transcription factors. IL-27 levels were elevated in acute coronary syndrome and correlated with ox-LDL and Gensini scores. Patients with severe CAD showed a Th1/Th17-dominant profile and reductions in Th2, CD4⁺LAP⁺, and Tregs. In vitro, IL-27 promoted Th1 differentiation via T-bet/IFN-γ upregulation and suppressed Th2, Th17, and regulatory subsets, counteracting IL-2-induced expansion of Tregs and CD4⁺LAP⁺ cells. These effects were dose dependent and favored pro-inflammatory responses. IL-27 drives immune imbalance in CAD by reinforcing Th1 polarization and antagonizing IL-2-mediated regulation. Beyond mechanistic insights, these findings identify IL-27 as a potential biomarker for disease severity and a candidate therapeutic target in CAD. Show less
Thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO) is characterized by inflammation and tissue remodeling, including fibrosis and adipogenesis. Here, we identify interleukin-27 (IL-27) as a negative feedback imm Show more
Thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO) is characterized by inflammation and tissue remodeling, including fibrosis and adipogenesis. Here, we identify interleukin-27 (IL-27) as a negative feedback immunomodulator in TAO. Serum IL-27α levels were significantly elevated in patients with TAO compared with healthy and inflammatory disease controls. In orbital fibroblasts (OFs), exogenous IL-27 suppressed IL-1β-induced proinflammatory cytokines and reduced hypoxia-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation. IL-27 also attenuated TGF-β-driven fibrosis via p38 MAPK signaling in CD90 Show less
Mutations in LRRK2, a leading genetic cause of Parkinson's disease (PD), are linked to immune dysregulation, but the immune profiles in the periphery and central nervous system (CNS) remain incomplete Show more
Mutations in LRRK2, a leading genetic cause of Parkinson's disease (PD), are linked to immune dysregulation, but the immune profiles in the periphery and central nervous system (CNS) remain incompletely defined. This study utilized a large cohort of serum samples (n = 651) and matched CSF samples (n = 129) from LRRK2 mutation carriers and non-carriers, with and without PD, to assess immune regulators using Luminex immunoassay. After correction for multiple comparisons, LRRK2 mutations were associated with significantly elevated serum levels of SDF-1 alpha and TNF-RII, while CSF markers such as BAFF, CD40L, and IL-27 were nominally reduced. Regardless of LRRK2 status, PD was associated with nominally lower levels of inflammatory analytes in CSF, with minimal changes observed in serum. Correlation analyses revealed distinct immune profiles between serum and CSF, suggesting compartmentalized immune responses. These findings highlight immune alterations in LRRK2 mutation carriers and PD, providing potential serum markers for monitoring immune responses and avenues for mechanistic studies. Show less
Oxymatrine is an alkaloid with the property of immunomodulation. Recent studies have demonstrated that oxymatrine inhibits experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model of multiple Show more
Oxymatrine is an alkaloid with the property of immunomodulation. Recent studies have demonstrated that oxymatrine inhibits experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model of multiple sclerosis (MS), by promoting the production of interferon-β (IFN-β). However, the mechanism through which oxymatrine regulates the production of IFN-β remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the pharmacological effects and related molecular mechanisms of oxymatrine in the treatment of EAE through in vivo and in vitro experiments. Oxymatrine alleviated neurological dysfunction, demyelination, and inflammation in EAE mice. It reduced microglia/macrophage infiltration and polarization, lowered pro-inflammatory cytokine levels (iNOS, TNF-α), and enhanced the expression of IL-10 and IL-27. Additionally, oxymatrine upregulated the STING/TBK1/IRF3 signaling pathway in EAE mice, promoting IFN-β production by microglia. Similarly, in LPS-induced BV2 cells, oxymatrine suppressed inflammatory factors and activated the STING/TBK1/IRF3 pathway to enhance IFN-β production. Notably, treatment with the STING inhibitor, C176, reversed these effects in both EAE mice and LPS-induced BV2 cells, confirming the pathway's critical role in the mechanism of oxymatrine therapy. Oxymatrine promotes IFN-β production in microglia by upregulating the STING/TBK1/IRF3 signaling pathway, thereby alleviating the neurological dysfunction of EAE and reducing pathological and inflammatory events. This study identifies a novel anti-EAE mechanism of oxymatrine: promoting IFN-β production in microglia by activating the STING/TBK1/IRF3 pathway. However, it lacks clinical sample verification. If validated later, oxymatrine may provide a more economical, convenient endogenous IFN-β induction regimen for MS patients. Show less
The integration of serum biomarkers and gene polymorphisms may enhance early prognostic assessment in sepsis. Early and accurate prediction of outcomes is crucial for optimizing treatment strategies a Show more
The integration of serum biomarkers and gene polymorphisms may enhance early prognostic assessment in sepsis. Early and accurate prediction of outcomes is crucial for optimizing treatment strategies and improving survival. However, the clinical utility of combining genetic markers with conventional inflammatory indicators remains insufficiently validated. In this retrospective cohort ( 6 predictors were retained - PCT, CRP, lactate (LAC), lactate clearance rate (LCR), TLR4 rs4986790, and PPARγ rs1801282. The nomogram achieved AUC 0.885 (95% CI 0.812-0.943) with sensitivity 88.6% and specificity 73.9%; calibration was good (H - L χ This integrative biomarker-genotype model demonstrated strong internal performance and potential clinical utility for individualized risk stratification in sepsis. The results support combining genetic susceptibility and inflammatory biomarkers for enhanced prognostic precision, although external and multi-ethnic validation remains warranted before widespread adoption. Show less
Liver diseases, ranging from chronic liver disease (CLD) to acute liver injury (ALI), pose significant global health challenges. Metabolic dysfunction and inflammatory disorders are key to the progres Show more
Liver diseases, ranging from chronic liver disease (CLD) to acute liver injury (ALI), pose significant global health challenges. Metabolic dysfunction and inflammatory disorders are key to the progression of both CLD and ALI, suggesting that dual-targeting of metabolism and immune response may lead to better clinical performance for patients with liver disease. Interleukin-27 (IL-27) is a classic cytokine known for its immune-modulating role, with many ongoing clinical trials in the context of anti-tumoral therapy and inflammatory bowel disease. Our previous studies have revealed an unexpected role of IL-27 in promoting adipocyte thermogenesis and ameliorating role in systemic metabolism. This review outlines the involvement of the IL-27/IL-27R signaling pathway in hepatic metabolism and immunity, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target for both CLD and ALI. Meanwhile, when serum IL-27 displays a disease-specific change in dynamic liver diseases, a summary and elaboration on its diagnostic potential are also carried out. Show less
Interleukin-27 (IL-27), an Interleukin-12 (IL-12) family heterodimeric cytokine, plays a central yet complex role in immunoregulation within the intestinal mucosa, where its context-dependent actions Show more
Interleukin-27 (IL-27), an Interleukin-12 (IL-12) family heterodimeric cytokine, plays a central yet complex role in immunoregulation within the intestinal mucosa, where its context-dependent actions can promote both protective and pathogenic outcomes. Although its cellular sources, receptor structure (IL-27Rα/gp130 complex), and involvement in regulating key immune cells (e.g., T-cell subsets, macrophages, neutrophils) and epithelial functions are established, the precise mechanisms underlying its paradoxical effects-balancing homeostasis with inflammation-remain incompletely resolved. This review synthesizes current understanding of IL-27 biology to clarify its multifaceted role. Crucial insights into these dual functions have emerged from preclinical models, including murine colitis (e.g., DSS-, TNBS-induced), enteric infection (e.g., Toxoplasma gondii, Citrobacter rodentium), and colorectal cancer models. These studies demonstrate that IL-27 critically orchestrates gut immunity, maintaining homeostasis through antimicrobial defense and barrier enhancement while suppressing immunopathology. Conversely, its dysregulation drives chronic inflammation and carcinogenesis. Clinically, IL-27 expression correlates with disease activity in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), colorectal cancer (CRC), and infections, highlighting its biomarker potential. Consequently, targeting the IL-27 pathway presents promising therapeutic avenues: augmenting signaling may mitigate IBD hyperinflammation, while inhibition could bolster antitumor immunity or resolve infection-driven pathology. Future research must prioritize defining context-specific IL-27 functions, optimizing delivery strategies, and integrating IL-27 targeting with existing biologics to translate its immunomodulatory potential into novel therapies for intestinal diseases. Show less
B cells express many protein ligands, yet their regulatory functions are incompletely understood. We profiled ligand expression across murine B sublineage cells, including those activated by defined r Show more
B cells express many protein ligands, yet their regulatory functions are incompletely understood. We profiled ligand expression across murine B sublineage cells, including those activated by defined receptor signals, and assessed their regulatory capacities and specificities through in silico analysis of ligand-receptor interactions. Consequently, we identified a B cell subset that expressed cytokine interleukin-27 (IL-27) and chemokine CXCL10. Through the IL-27-IL-27 receptor interaction, these IL-27/CXCL10-producing B cells targeted CD40-activated B cells in vitro and, upon induction by immunization and viral infection, optimized antibody responses and antiviral immunity in vivo. Also present in breast cancer tumors and retained there through CXCL10-CXCR3 interaction-mediated self-targeting, these cells promoted B cell PD-L1 expression and immune evasion. Mechanistically, Show less
Xianbo Chen, Xiaohong Tao, Jingyu Wang · 2025 · FASEB journal : official publication of the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology · added 2026-04-24
Neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is a severe neurological condition associated with high rates of mortality or long-term disability. Despite its clinical significance, the detailed cellu Show more
Neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is a severe neurological condition associated with high rates of mortality or long-term disability. Despite its clinical significance, the detailed cellular mechanisms underlying HIE remain unclear. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) has emerged as a powerful tool for investigating cellular heterogeneity across development, aging, and disease processes. However, no scRNA-seq studies have yet addressed neonatal HIE. In this study, we employed scRNA-seq to examine cellular heterogeneity during neonatal HIE. We analyzed a total of 87 580 high-quality brain cells to identify transcriptional changes associated with HIE. In the hyperacute phase, we observed astrocytes in response to tumor necrosis factors, involvement of microglia in phagocytosis, Stat3-mediated ischemic responses in oligodendrocyte precursor cells, and an increase in senescent lymphatic endothelial cells. In the acute phase, astrocytes were activated and involved in gliogenesis, while microglia proliferated. Neuroblasts were affected by metal ions, and oligodendrocytes decreased. In the subacute phase, astrocytes involved in inflammation and antigen presentation, while inflammatory microglia highly expressing MHC II were induced by the IL27 and type I interferon pathways and expanded. Additionally, peripheral immune cells played vital roles in HIE. Specifically, neutrophils infiltrated and expanded throughout all phases post-HIE. Spp1 Show less
As a vital component of the immune system, macrophages play a critical role in the progression of asthma. The two classic polarization states of macrophages, M1 and M2, exhibit distinct functions. M1- Show more
As a vital component of the immune system, macrophages play a critical role in the progression of asthma. The two classic polarization states of macrophages, M1 and M2, exhibit distinct functions. M1-polarized macrophages eliminate pathogens through the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines, while M2-polarized macrophages secrete anti-inflammatory factors to facilitate tissue repair. However, in asthma, the activation of M1 macrophages is often associated with excessive inflammatory responses, whereas M2 macrophages contribute to airway remodeling and chronic inflammation. These processes collectively exacerbate airway inflammation and remodeling, thereby aggravating asthma symptoms. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), as crucial signaling molecules, have been shown to regulate macrophage polarization and promote both M1 and M2 polarization states. This review summarizes the primary endogenous and exogenous sources of ROS in asthma and elaborates on the mechanisms by which ROS influence M1/M2 polarization of macrophages. Endogenous ROS arise chiefly from NOX2, xanthine oxidase, peroxisomes and mitochondria, whereas ozone and fine particulate matter are major exogenous sources. ROS activate MAPK, NF-κB and NLRP3 cascades, boosting IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-27 release by M1 cells, while low NOX2 flux or mitochondrial H Show less
Interleukin-27 receptor alpha (IL27RA), a key subunit of the interleukin-27 receptor, plays an essential role in T cell-mediated immunity. However, its relevance in breast cancer and response to immun Show more
Interleukin-27 receptor alpha (IL27RA), a key subunit of the interleukin-27 receptor, plays an essential role in T cell-mediated immunity. However, its relevance in breast cancer and response to immunotherapy remains unexplored. We integrated bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing data from TCGA, GEO, and scRNA-seq datasets to analyze IL27RA expression, prognosis, immune infiltration, and treatment response. TIDE and immune checkpoint-treated clinical cohorts were used to assess immunotherapy responsiveness. Chemotherapy sensitivity was predicted using GDSC data, and IL27RA protein expression was validated by Western blot. IL27RA was downregulated in breast cancer but high expression correlated with favorable survival. It was primarily expressed in T cells, particularly CD8⁺ subsets, and associated with enriched immune infiltration and elevated checkpoint gene expression. IL27RA high-expression patients showed lower TIDE scores, better outcomes in ICI-treated cohorts, and higher sensitivity to multiple chemotherapeutic agents. IL27RA is a potential immune biomarker that reflects an inflamed tumor microenvironment and predicts benefit from immunotherapy and chemotherapy in breast cancer. These findings provide novel insights into immune-based stratification using single-cell transcriptomic data. Show less
Pancreatic cancer has a complex immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), which is highly resistant to conventional therapies and emerging cancer immunotherapies. Oncolytic viruses are multiface Show more
Pancreatic cancer has a complex immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), which is highly resistant to conventional therapies and emerging cancer immunotherapies. Oncolytic viruses are multifaceted killers of malignant tumors, which can selectively infect, replicate in and lyse tumor cells, release tumor-associated antigens to stimulate specific antitumor immune responses, and recruit immune cells into the TME, turning "cold" tumors "hot". Here, we report a novel A novel oncolytic VV with deletion of the TK, N1L, and A41L genes, and expression of the red fluorescent protein (RFP) gene (VVL-TD-RFP) was constructed using CRISPR-Cas9-based homologous recombination. This virus was armed with IL-27, creating VVL-TD-IL-27. The characteristics of these viruses were evaluated VVL-TD-RFP cured 71.4% of tumor-bearing mice, compared with 14.3% of animals treated with VVLΔTKΔN1L that does not have an A41L gene deletion. Efficacy was mainly dependent on elevated dendritic cell (DC) populations, activation of DC, CD86 VVL-TD-mIL-27 is a potential immunotherapy agent for the treatment of pancreatic cancer, and a clinical study of this virus is warranted. Show less
Anti-HER2 antibodies are effective but often lead to resistance in patients with HER2+ breast cancer. Here, we report an epigenetic crosstalk with aberrant glycerophospholipid metabolism and inflammat Show more
Anti-HER2 antibodies are effective but often lead to resistance in patients with HER2+ breast cancer. Here, we report an epigenetic crosstalk with aberrant glycerophospholipid metabolism and inflammation as a key resistance mechanism of anti-HER2 therapies in HER2+ breast cancer. Histone reader ZMYND8 specifically confers resistance to cancer cells against trastuzumab and/or pertuzumab. Mechanistically, ZMYND8 enhances cPLA2α expression in resistant tumor cells through inducing c-Myc. cPLA2α inactivates phosphatidylcholine-specific phospholipase C to inhibit phosphatidylcholine breakdown into diacylglycerol, which diminishes protein kinase C activity leading to interleukin-27 secretion. Supplementation with interleukin-27 protein counteracts cPLA2α loss to reinforce trastuzumab resistance in HER2+ tumor cells and patient-derived organoids. Upregulation of ZMYND8, c-Myc, cPLA2α, and IL-27 is prevalent in HER2+ breast cancer patients following HER2-targeted therapies. Targeting c-Myc or cPLA2α effectively overcomes anti-HER2 therapy resistance in patient-derived xenografts. Collectively, this study uncovers a druggable signaling cascade that drives resistance to HER2-targeted therapies in HER2+ breast cancer. Show less
Recipients' age has emerged as a key factor that impacts on acute renal allograft rejection and graft survival. Age-related functional and structural changes in the immune system have been observed, y Show more
Recipients' age has emerged as a key factor that impacts on acute renal allograft rejection and graft survival. Age-related functional and structural changes in the immune system have been observed, yet the precise influence of aged immunity on kidney transplant remains unclear. In an initial retrospective analysis of clinical data gathered from two major centers in China and Germany, we found a correlation between aging and mitigated rejection outcomes in kidney recipients. To study the mechanism, we performed kidney transplantation on mice and observed attenuated allograft rejection in senescent recipients. Single-cell transcriptome analysis of allograft kidneys indicated a protective role of p21 Show less
Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU), a serious complication of diabetes, is a life-threatening disease that often leads to lower limb amputation and a shortened lifespan. Interleukin-27 (IL-27) is a member of t Show more
Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU), a serious complication of diabetes, is a life-threatening disease that often leads to lower limb amputation and a shortened lifespan. Interleukin-27 (IL-27) is a member of the IL-12 family and has the potential to exert dual effects on the immune response. The role of IL-27 in diabetic skin wound healing is unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate whether there is abnormal expression of IL-27 in diabetic skin and whether supplementation with IL-27 can promote diabetic wound healing by modulating macrophage polarization. We established a streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mouse model and constructed diabetic wounds. We assessed protein expression by western blotting (WB) and immunohistochemical (IHC) staining. We also performed hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining and Masson's trichrome staining. In the presence of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and high glucose (HG), we treated the mononuclear macrophage line RAW264.7 and bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) with IL-27. To assess macrophage polarization, we examined the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), IL-1β and arginase-1 (Arg-1). To understand the underlying mechanisms, we used macrophage IL-27ra knockout mice to knockout macrophage IL-27 receptors. Our in vivo experiments revealed that the expression of IL-27 in the skin of diabetic mice was significantly decreased and that supplementation with IL-27 promoted diabetic wound healing. In vitro, compared with the LPS group, supplementation with IL-27 alleviated the suppression of multiple cellular functions, such as iNOS and IL-1β expression, cell migration, and phagocytosis, in macrophages after HG exposure. Mechanistically, we found that IL-27 expression was decreased and that the activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) by phosphorylation was inhibited in diabetic skin, leading to an inability of wound macrophages to polarize to an M1 phenotype effectively, which in turn blocked M1-to-M2 polarization of wound macrophages and ultimately delayed wound healing. The present study revealed that supplementation with IL-27 promoted M1-to-M2 polarization of wound macrophages and diabetic wound healing through the IL-27-IL-27Rα-p-STAT3 axis. These findings suggest that IL-27 may be a potential therapeutic target for DFU. Show less
Roshni Jaffery, Yuhang Zhao, Sarfraz Ahmed+11 more · 2025 · bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology · Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory · added 2026-04-24
Mutations in the Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 ( We investigated the levels of soluble immune regulators in the serum (n=651) and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF, n=129) of In this extensive discovery cohort, Show more
Mutations in the Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 ( We investigated the levels of soluble immune regulators in the serum (n=651) and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF, n=129) of In this extensive discovery cohort, we identified several elevated serum immune regulatory factors associated with This study highlights distinct immune profiles associated with LRRK2 mutations and PD in the periphery and CNS. Serum levels of SDF-1alpha and TNF-RII were elevated in LRRK2 mutation carriers, while CSF immune markers were reduced. In PD, irrespective of LRRK2 status, reduced CSF inflammatory analytes and weak serum signals were observed. These results provide insight into immune dysregulation linked to LRRK2 mutations. If replicable in independent datasets, they offer potential avenues for biomarker and therapeutic exploration. Show less
Obesity arises from an imbalance between adipogenesis and adipocyte thermogenesis. Interleukin-27 (IL-27), a heterodimer cytokine, is known to promote thermogenesis in brown adipose tissue. However, i Show more
Obesity arises from an imbalance between adipogenesis and adipocyte thermogenesis. Interleukin-27 (IL-27), a heterodimer cytokine, is known to promote thermogenesis in brown adipose tissue. However, its role in adipogenesis remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the effects of IL-27 on adipogenesis both in vitro and in vivo, and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. In vitro, an adipogenic differentiation model of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs) demonstrate that IL-27 is non-cytotoxic to ADSCs and inhibits ADSCs adipogenic differentiation. In vivo, using a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese mouse model and a targeted adipose tissue-specific IL-27 overexpression adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector, we confirm that IL-27 suppresses adipogenesis, prevents weight gain, and improves glucose and lipid metabolic homeostasis in obese mice. Additionally, the inhibition of adipogenesis by IL-27 is mediated through HDAC6 activation of the TGFβ/Smad3 signaling pathway. Our study suggests that IL-27 is a potential therapeutic target for obesity and metabolic disorders. Show less
Our aim was to explore the IL-27 effect in sepsis (SP)-related acute hepatic injury (AHI) as well as its possible mechanism. Herein, we utilized both wild-type (WT) and IL-27 receptor (WSX-1)-deficien Show more
Our aim was to explore the IL-27 effect in sepsis (SP)-related acute hepatic injury (AHI) as well as its possible mechanism. Herein, we utilized both wild-type (WT) and IL-27 receptor (WSX-1)-deficient (IL-27R The results revealed that IL-27 exacerbated systemic inflammation and liver damage in AHI mice by promoting M1 macrophage polarization, thereby increasing pro-inflammatory phenotype macrophages (M1). This further exacerbated the inflammatory response and pyroptosis in vivo and in vitro. Additionally, IL-27 down-regulated p-AMPK and SIRT1 protein expression while overexpressing macrophage inflammatory mediators including IL-1β/6 and TNFα. Furthermore, IL-27 promoted increased RAGE and caspase-11 protein expression, aggravating macrophage pyroptosis. Employing CC to block the AMPK pathway further aggravated M1 macrophage polarization and pyroptosis in vitro and in vivo, ultimately worsening liver injury. Here, IL-27 aggravates AHI by promoting macrophage M1 polarization to induce caspase-11-mediated pyroptosis in vitro and in vivo, which may be linked to the AMPK/SIRT1 signaling pathway. Show less
The genetic foundations underlying the observed disease resistance in certain indigenous pig breeds, notably the Min pigs of China, present a compelling underexplored subject of study. Exploring the m Show more
The genetic foundations underlying the observed disease resistance in certain indigenous pig breeds, notably the Min pigs of China, present a compelling underexplored subject of study. Exploring the mechanisms of disease resistance in these breeds could lay the groundwork for genetic improvements in pig immunity, potentially augmenting overall pig productivity. In this study, whole blood samples were collected from pre- and post- swine fever vaccinated Min and Large White pigs for transcriptome sequencing. The mRNA and lncRNA in both pig breeds were analyzed, and intra-group and inter-group comparisons were also conducted. The results indicated that a greater number of immune-related pathways such as the JAK-STAT and PI3K-AKT signaling were enriched in Min pigs. Furthermore, genes involved in inflammation and antiviral responses, including IL16, IL27, USP18, and DHX58, were upregulated in post-vaccination Min pigs compared to post-vaccination Large White pigs. This heightened immune responsiveness could contribute to the observed differences in disease resistance between Min pigs and Large White pigs. Show less
Jiang Wang, Qiqi Ma · 2025 · International urology and nephrology · Springer · added 2026-04-24
To clarify the causal association between cardiovascular proteins and diabetic nephropathy (DN) in Europeans. The large genome-wide association study data of cardiovascular proteins and DN were used f Show more
To clarify the causal association between cardiovascular proteins and diabetic nephropathy (DN) in Europeans. The large genome-wide association study data of cardiovascular proteins and DN were used for this two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis. We took the Inverse variance weighted (IVW) as the primary method. Moreover, MR-Egger, weighted median, weighted mode, and simple mode were also performed as supplementary methods. Further, Cochrane's Q test, MR-Egger, and MR-PRESSO were conducted for sensitivity analysis. According to the IVW method, the results indicated that Galanin peptide was a protective factor for DN (OR: 0.835, 95% CI 0.700, 0.996, P = 0.045) and seven cardiovascular proteins were identified as the risk factors for DN, including CX3CL1 (OR: 1.288, 95% CI 1.012, 1.639, P = 0.039), stem cell factor (OR: 1.228, 95%CI: 1.013, 1.489, P = 0.036), tumor necrosis factor receptor 2 (OR: 1.633, 95% CI 1.141, 2.338, P = 0.007), myeloperoxidase (OR: 1.412, 95% CI 1.103, 1.808, P = 0.006), galectin-3 (OR: 1.297, 95% CI 1.095, 1.537, P = 0.003), platelet-derived growth factor subunit B (OR: 1.338, 95% CI 1.020, 1.756, P = 0.035), and interleukin-27 (OR: 1.248, 95% CI 1.033, 1.509, P = 0.022). Moreover, the reverse MR study did not observe the causal effect of DN on cardiovascular proteins. The results of sensitivity analysis suggested no significant pleiotropy and heterogeneity. This MR analysis first evaluated the causal relationship between cardiovascular protein and DN at the genetic level, which could be of great significance for the prevention and treatment of DN. Show less
Acute pulmonary inflammation is a severe lower respiratory tract infection. Sinensetin (SIN), a polymethoxyflavone with strong anti-inflammatory properties, is known to ameliorate LPS-induced acute in Show more
Acute pulmonary inflammation is a severe lower respiratory tract infection. Sinensetin (SIN), a polymethoxyflavone with strong anti-inflammatory properties, is known to ameliorate LPS-induced acute inflammatory lung injury, but its molecular mechanisms are not fully understood. This study aimed to provide insight into the pharmacological mechanisms of SIN in attenuating acute pulmonary inflammation. In LPS-induced inflammation assays in vivo and in vitro, SIN significantly reduced the mRNA levels of inflammatory genes including MCP-1, ICAM1, Ccl3, Ccl4, Ccl5, Ccl7, Cxcl9, Cxcl10, IL1α, IL1β, IL6, IL11, IL18, IL27, TNF-α, IFN-γ, TLR4, MyD88, F4/80, COX2, iNOS, NLRP3, ASC, JAK2, STAT3, STAT4, and Bcl2l1, as well as increased the mRNA levels of anti-inflammatory genes such as IL4, IL10, and IL12α. Besides, SIN markedly decreased the expression of CD68, TLR4, MyD88, phospho-IκBα (S32/S36), phospho-NF-κB p65 (S536), MCP-1, ICAM1, phospho-JAK2 (Tyr1008), phospho-STAT1 (S727), phospho-STAT3 (Y705), and phospho-STAT4 (Y693), inhibited NF-κB p65 translocation into the nucleus, thereby blocking in combination with STAT transcription factors to induce target gene expression. Further GC-MS/MS and LC-MS/MS metabolomic analysis revealed that SIN significantly increased the abundance of anti-inflammatory metabolites, such as L-alanine, L-carnitine, L-glutamic acid, Glycine, and L-cysteine. In conclusion, the results indicated that SIN attenuated LPS-induced acute pulmonary inflammation by modulating NF-κB p65-mediated immune resistance and STAT3-mediated tissue resilience. All these favorable findings presented critical insights into the remarkable abilities and health benefits of SIN in ameliorating inflammatory lung disease. Show less
Human neonates are predisposed to an increased risk of mortality from infection due to fundamental differences in the framework of innate and adaptive immune responses relative to those in the adult p Show more
Human neonates are predisposed to an increased risk of mortality from infection due to fundamental differences in the framework of innate and adaptive immune responses relative to those in the adult population. As one key difference in neonates, an increase in the immunosuppressive cytokine, IL-27, is responsible for poor outcomes in a murine neonatal model of bacterial sepsis. In our model, the absence of IL-27 signaling during infection is associated with improved maintenance of body mass, increased bacterial clearance with reduced systemic inflammation, and decreased mortality rates that correlate to preservation of glucose homeostasis and insulin production. To further elucidate the mechanisms associated with IL-27 signaling and metabolic fitness, we analyzed global transcriptomes from spleen, liver, pancreas, and hindlimb muscle during Show less
Zijun Zhu, Rongxing Wei, Hailong Li+5 more · 2025 · FASEB journal : official publication of the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology · added 2026-04-24
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) with the two predominant endophenotypes-Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC)-represents a group of chronic gastrointestinal inflammatory conditions. Since Show more
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) with the two predominant endophenotypes-Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC)-represents a group of chronic gastrointestinal inflammatory conditions. Since most genetic associations with IBD are often limited to independent subtypes, we reported a genome-wide association study (GWAS) cross-trait analysis combined with CD and UC to enhance statistical power. Initially, we detected 256 association signals at 54 genomic susceptibility loci and further characterized the functionality of variants within these regions. Subsequently, we revealed tissue and cell-specific heritability enrichment, particularly in whole blood, small intestine terminal ileum, spleen, lung, and colon transverse. Leveraging multi-omics datasets, we adopted a two-pronged approach comprising summary data-based Mendelian randomization (SMR) and transcriptome-wide association study (TWAS) to pinpoint likely causal genes and variants. Further, RNA-seq analysis facilitated the evaluation of differential expression and co-expression in intestinal tissues. Through a multi-stage prioritization strategy, compelling evidence for putative targets was nominated; notably highlighting several potential susceptibility genes such as IL27 and SBNO2. Finally, we utilized Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis with diverse datasets to verify the convergence of these two endophenotype-driven genes. Our investigation yields valuable insights to inform genetic mechanisms in IBD and reveal potential causal gene targets. Show less
Traumatic defects or non-union fractures presents a substantial challenge in the fields of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Although synthetic calcium phosphate-based biomaterials (CaPs) Show more
Traumatic defects or non-union fractures presents a substantial challenge in the fields of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Although synthetic calcium phosphate-based biomaterials (CaPs) such as dibasic calcium phosphate anhydrate (DCPA) are commonly employed for bone repair, their inadequate cellular immune responses significantly impede sustained degradation and optimal osteogenesis. In this study, drawing inspiration from the key structure of an acidic non-collagenous protein-CaP complex (ANCPs-CaP) essential for natural bone formation, we prepared biomimetic mineralized dibasic calcium phosphate (MDCPA). This preparation utilized plant-derived non-collagenous protein Zein as the organic template and acidic artificial saliva as the mineralization medium. Physicochemical property analysis revealed that MDCPA is a complex of Zein and DCPA, which mimics the composite of the natural ANCP-CaP. Moreover, MDCPA exhibited enhanced biodegradability and osteogenic potential. Mechanistic insight revealed that MDCPA can be phagocytized and degraded by macrophages via the FCγRIII receptor, leading to the release of interleukin 27 (IL-27), which promotes osteogenic differentiation by osteoimmunomodulation. The critical role of IL-27 in osteogenesis is further confirmed using IL-27 gene knockout mice. Additionally, MDCPA demonstrates effective healing of critical-sized defects in rat cranial bones within only 4 w, providing a promising basis and valuable insights for critical-sized bone defects regeneration. Show less
Dan Wang, Ruixia Liu · 2025 · Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's archives of pharmacology · Springer · added 2026-04-24
One vision-threatening side effect of systematic diabetes mellitus is diabetic retinopathy (DR). Recent studies have revealed that the development and progression of DR depend critically on inflammati Show more
One vision-threatening side effect of systematic diabetes mellitus is diabetic retinopathy (DR). Recent studies have revealed that the development and progression of DR depend critically on inflammation resulting from diabetes. By attracting leukocytes to endothelium, the higher production of the inflammatory mediators induces degeneration of retinal capillaries, hence increasing vascular permeability and thrombosis probability. The leukocytes that are recruited eventually generate additional proinflammatory and proangiogenic substances, resulting in the increased infiltration of leukocytes in the retina. This process also leads to changes in the blood retinal barrier and the formation of new blood vessels, which helps to counteract the damage caused by the blockage of blood flow. IL-12 family members, IL-12, IL-23, IL-27, and IL-35, play a crucial role in regulating the responses of T helper (Th)1 and Th17 cell populations. The collected data from studies investigating the levels of IL-12 family members in the blood and eye tissues suggest that IL-12 is linked to DR, indicating that it may have a role in the development of DR as a sequential component of the immune response. This review specifically examines the possibility of using IL-12 family cytokines as a therapeutic approach for diabetes, taking into consideration their involvement in the development of DR. Show less
Disrupting liver immune homeostasis drives inflammation. Recent evidence shifts immunoregulatory focus to hepatocytes, though the mechanisms remain poorly defined. Forkhead box O1 (FoxO1) is a critica Show more
Disrupting liver immune homeostasis drives inflammation. Recent evidence shifts immunoregulatory focus to hepatocytes, though the mechanisms remain poorly defined. Forkhead box O1 (FoxO1) is a critical homeostasis regulator, but its function in liver immune homeostasis is unknown. We aimed to clarify the role of hepatocyte FoxO1 in liver immune homeostasis and inflammation. Human liver FoxO1 expression and its association with inflammation were analyzed in patients with various inflammation-related liver diseases. Hepatocyte-specific Foxo1 knockout (FoxO1 △hepa ) mice were established. Hepatocyte-specific gene interference was employed in alcoholic hepatitis and hepatic schistosomiasis murine models. Transcriptomic, single-cell RNA sequencing, and CUT&Tag analyses were performed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Hepatocyte FoxO1 levels in human inflammatory livers declined prevalently and were inversely correlated with inflammation and fibrosis. Around 15-18 weeks after birth, FoxO1 △hepa mice exhibited mild spontaneous hepatic inflammation with natural killer T (NKT) cell and neutrophil accumulation. NKT cell depletion in FoxO1 △hepa mice with alcoholic hepatitis or hepatic schistosomiasis (HS) significantly reduced neutrophil accumulation and protected against liver inflammation and damage. Mechanistically, FoxO1 promoted retinoic acid synthesis to induce hepatocyte CD1d expression, which is necessary for regulating NKT cell apoptosis. Innovatively, decreased JMJD1C expression in hepatocytes caused histone H3 lysine 9 (H3K9) dimethylation at the Foxo1 promoter, repressing its transcription and disrupting local immune homeostasis. Our findings uncover a hitherto unrecognized mechanism for hepatocyte-based control of liver inflammation, in which hepatocyte FoxO1 maintained by JMJD1C restrains local NKT cells and neutrophils via CD1d induction, providing promising targets for inflammatory liver diseases. Show less