Fusion genes are pivotal drivers of tumorigenesis, often generating oncogenic chimeric RNAs and fusion circular RNAs. However, the mechanisms by which these transcripts synergistically contribute to c Show more
Fusion genes are pivotal drivers of tumorigenesis, often generating oncogenic chimeric RNAs and fusion circular RNAs. However, the mechanisms by which these transcripts synergistically contribute to cancer progression remain poorly understood. Here, we identified a lung cancer-specific chimeric RNA KANSL1-ARL17A (chKANSARL) and its circular variant fusion circular RNA KANSL1-ARL17 A (F-circKA), both derived from the fusion gene KANSARL. Functional assays revealed that overexpression of either chKANSARL or F-circKA significantly enhanced lung cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, while their knockdown suppressed these malignant phenotypes. In vivo experiments demonstrated that chKANSARL overexpression accelerated tumor growth in immunodeficient mice. Notably, coexpression experiments uncovered a synergistic regulatory interaction between F-circKA and chKANSARL, amplifying oncogenic effects. Mechanistically, miRNA sequencing and dual-luciferase assays revealed that F-circKA acts as a molecular sponge for miR-6860, thereby derepressing chKANSARL expression. Rescue experiments further validated this regulatory axis, wherein miR-6860 inhibition reversed the tumor-suppressive effects of F-circKA knockdown. Collectively, our study identifies and characterizes a novel F-circKA/miR-6860/chKANSARL regulatory axis, revealing how dual transcriptional outputs from the KANSARL fusion gene can synergistically drive lung cancer progression. These findings highlight a previously unrecognized layer of cooperative regulation between linear and circular fusion RNAs in oncogenesis and provide a new framework for understanding fusion gene-mediated tumorigenesis. Show less
Diabetes constitutes a risk factor for atherosclerotic calcification, which is highly associated with phenotypic switching in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Protein cysteine S-nitrosylation pla Show more
Diabetes constitutes a risk factor for atherosclerotic calcification, which is highly associated with phenotypic switching in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Protein cysteine S-nitrosylation plays a crucial role in multiple cardiovascular diseases. The objective of this study is to examine whether diabetic atherosclerotic calcification is regulated by S-nitrosylation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a regulator of VSMC phenotype switching. The atherosclerotic plaque was induced by feeding Apoe In cultured VSMCs, high glucose (HG), but not high osmotic pressure, triggered nitrosative stress, reduced AMPKβ1 protein levels, increased AMPKβ1 S-nitrosylation and ubiquitination, and led to calcification. These effects were abolished by mutating AMPKβ1 at cysteine 173 or 223. Furthermore, mutations of AMPKβ1 at Cys173/223 to alanine restored AMPKβ1 protein levels and suppressed the AKT/Runx2 pathway in HG-treated VSMCs. In vivo, enforced expression of mutated AMPKβ1 (Cys173Ala plus Cys223Ala), but not overexpression of wild-type AMPKβ1, significantly prevented atherosclerotic calcification in diabetic Apoe Nitrosative stress contributes to atherosclerotic calcification in diabetes through AMPKβ S-nitrosylation. In perspective, it is advisable to consider inhibiting AMPKβ S-nitrosylation in diabetic patients with atherosclerosis. Show less
Benzo[a]pyrene (BaP), a pervasive environmental pollutant, has been implicated in cardiovascular injury, yet its mechanistic contribution to atherosclerosis remains unclear. Here, we combined network Show more
Benzo[a]pyrene (BaP), a pervasive environmental pollutant, has been implicated in cardiovascular injury, yet its mechanistic contribution to atherosclerosis remains unclear. Here, we combined network toxicology, RNA-seq profiling, molecular simulations, and cellular validation to elucidate BaP-driven vascular effects. Integration of BaP-associated targets with atherosclerosis gene sets identified SPP1 as a key hub. Transcriptomic analysis of aortas from BaP-treated ApoE Show less
Current infant formulas lack the native multilayer structure of breast milk fat globule membrane (MFGM), impacting lipid digestion. In this study, the inner layer material and concentration of the bio Show more
Current infant formulas lack the native multilayer structure of breast milk fat globule membrane (MFGM), impacting lipid digestion. In this study, the inner layer material and concentration of the biomimetic fat globule membrane were optimized by comparing particle size, Zeta-potential and interface protein load. It was found that compared with sodium caseinate (CN) and whey protein (WP), when the lactoferrin (LF) concentration was 2 %, the particle size was lower (277.85 ± 6.15 nm) and Zeta-potential value was higher (19.67 ± 1.27 mv). Using milk phospholipid (MPL) as the outer layer material, when the MPL concentration was 2 %, the emulsion had a smaller particle size (291.33 ± 1.15 nm) and a better stability (10.22 ± 0.62 %). Therefore, the biomimetic multilayer membrane was constructed by electrostatic layer-by-layer deposition of 2 % LF and 2 % MPL. Combining Fluorescence and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), the interaction between LF and MPL molecules in the LF-MPL multilayer structure is primarily a spontaneous, endothermic process driven by hydrophobic forces, exhibited superior stability (except thermal stability) than LF monolayer membrane. The results of in vitro digestion showed that compared with LF, WP and WP-MPL emulsions, LF-MPL emulsions had the highest free fatty acid (FFA) release rate of 69.97 %. LF-MPL enhanced gastric stability and promoted intestinal lipolysis and improved the degree of lipid digestion. In addition, LF-MPL promoted the absorption and utilization of triglyceride (TAG) in cells and animals, and secretion and upregulated lipid absorption genes (FATP4, DGAT1, APOB, APOA4, MTTP). These findings demonstrate that biomimetic LF-MPL multilayers improve lipid digestion, absorption, and bioavailability, providing a theoretical basis for designing more breast milk-like infant formulas. Show less
Myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury commonly occurs in patients undergoing cardiac or noncardiac surgeries, increasing perioperative mortality risk. Although numerous endogenous mediators rel Show more
Myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury commonly occurs in patients undergoing cardiac or noncardiac surgeries, increasing perioperative mortality risk. Although numerous endogenous mediators released during I/R contribute to myocardial damage, their mechanisms require further elucidation. We investigated whether lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), a bioactive phospholipid, mediates myocardial I/R injury by interacting with cardiac transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1). A TRPV1K710N knock-in mouse model was generated by CRISPR/Cas9, introducing a point mutation at K710, the known LPA-binding site on TRPV1. Langendorff perfused isolated hearts from TRPV1K710N and wild-type (WT) mice underwent global I/R injury with or without exogenous LPA (10 μM). Myocardial infarct size, coronary effluent LDH levels, and mitochondrial ultrastructure/function were assessed. Additionally, H9c2 cardiomyocytes were transfected with a pCMV6-entry plasmid carrying TRPV1-K710N or TRPV1-WT for mitochondrial calcium influx and cell viability assays. The V1-Cal peptide (1μM), targeting the K710 region, was applied ex vivo and in vitro to block LPA-TRPV1 interaction. TRPV1K710N hearts exhibited resistance to global I/R injury versus WT hearts, with reduced infarct size (28.3 ± 2.4% vs 39.9 ±2.3%, respectively, P= 0006), lower LDH levels, and attenuated mitochondrial damage. Exogenous LPA exacerbated I/R injury in WT hearts, increasing infarct size (63.7 ± 1.2% vs vehicle: 38.4 ± 2.4%; P <.0001), LDH release, and mitochondrial damage. TRPV1K710N hearts were resistant to LPA-induced injury, with no significant increase in infarct size after LPA treatment. Exogenous LPA induced pronounced swelling in mitochondria isolated from WT hearts, while mitochondria from TRPV1K710N hearts showed resistance to LPA challenge. In H9c2 cells, LPA significantly decreased viability in rTRPV1-WT cells and elevated mitochondrial calcium influx relative to rTRPV1-K710N cells. V1-Cal peptide attenuated LPA-mediated myocardial injury in WT hearts and reduced mitochondrial calcium overload in H9c2 cells. Blockade of the TRPV1 K710 site by K710N mutation or V1-Cal peptide mitigates LPA-mediated myocardial injury and mitochondrial damage/dysfunction in isolated mouse hearts. Targeting the cardiac LPA-TRPV1 interaction represents a promising therapeutic strategy against perioperative myocardial injury. Show less
This study aims to systematically investigate the multi-target mechanisms of cobalamin in the treatment of ischemic stroke using network pharmacology and molecular docking approaches. We screened data Show more
This study aims to systematically investigate the multi-target mechanisms of cobalamin in the treatment of ischemic stroke using network pharmacology and molecular docking approaches. We screened databases to identify the targets of cobalamin and performed intersected with with ischemic stroke-related targets to construct a “drug-target-disease” interaction network. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses were conducted to identify key biological processes and signaling pathways. Additionally, molecular docking simulations were performed to assess the binding affinity between cobalamin and hub proteins. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were used to assess the stability of the protein–ligand complexes over a 500 ns simulation period. Additionally, ADME (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion) and blood–brain barrier (BBB) permeability predictions were made using ADMETlab 3.0 and admetSAR 3.0. A total of 95 therapeutic targets of cobalamin for ischemic stroke were identified. Network analysis and molecular docking highlighted eight core targets—ALB, TIMP1, PLG, FN1, AGT, SERPINE1, APOE, and SPP1—with high binding affinities to cobalamin. GO analysis suggested that cobalamin regulates inflammatory responses, post-translational modifications, complement binding, and lipoprotein particle binding. KEGG analysis identified complement and coagulation cascades, the PI3K/AKT pathway, and inflammation-related signaling as central to its therapeutic effects. Molecular docking showed strong binding to ALB and TIMP1, which was further confirmed by MD simulations, with minimal conformational changes. The PLG-cobalamin complex exhibited more fluctuations. ADME analysis revealed low passive permeability, particularly across the blood–brain barrier, but moderate distribution and high plasma protein binding. This study provides evidence that cobalamin may offer neuroprotective effects in ischemic stroke by interacting with key target proteins involved in coagulation, inflammation, and lipid metabolism. The findings highlight the potential of cobalamin as a therapeutic agent, although its limited ability to cross the blood–brain barrier may restrict its oral use. Further experimental validation and development of suitable delivery methods are needed to fully realize cobalamin’s potential in stroke therapy. The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1038/s41598-026-41564-6. Show less
Hypertensive heart disease (HHD) and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) are characterized by left ventricular hypertrophy and diastolic dysfunction. Despite overlapping remodeling features, their disti Show more
Hypertensive heart disease (HHD) and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) are characterized by left ventricular hypertrophy and diastolic dysfunction. Despite overlapping remodeling features, their distinct mechanisms and therapeutic responses remain unclear. This study integrated genetic, imaging, and proteomic data to identify key mediators underlying β1-adrenergic receptor blockers (β1-blockers)-related therapeutic heterogeneity between HHD and HCM. Genetic instruments for β1-blockers were derived from two genome-wide association studies and integrated with cardiac magnetic resonance radiomic traits and plasma proteomic data from the UK Biobank, along with disease outcomes from FinnGen. A refined two-stage network Mendelian randomization framework with pleiotropy-robust estimators identified mediators of treatment response. To further elucidate their biological and clinical significance, additional analyses were performed, including drug-target profiling, molecular docking, adverse events (AEs) assessment, and drug prediction. We identified three types of imaging features and ten mediator proteins that contributed to therapeutic responses in HHD and HCM. These mediators were categorized as either mediating (aligned with therapeutic outcomes) or suppressing (opposing therapeutic outcomes). Left ventricular regional radial strain acted as a suppressing factor in HHD but a mediating factor in HCM, whereas end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes consistently showed suppressing effects in both. Regional myocardial wall thickness also exerted a suppressing role in HCM. Among protein mediators, APOE, CGREF1, ITGA5, LSP1, NOS3, and NPPB were linked to HHD, whereas DUSP13, ITGA11, NID1, and SERPINA4 were related to HCM. Specifically, APOE, ITGA5, NOS3, NPPB, DUSP13, and ITGA11 acted as mediating factors, while CGREF1, LSP1, NID1, and SERPINA4 served as suppressing ones. These findings remained robust after pleiotropy adjustment and other genetic analyses. Molecular docking revealed interactions between ADRB1, the β1-blockers target, and downstream proteins, while drug prediction identified eight potential compounds linked to these mediators. Additionally, AE analyses indicated that some targets, such as DUSP13, could both mitigate and aggravate common AEs while contributing to cardiac therapy. This integrative multi-omics analysis revealed distinct imaging and proteomic mechanisms of genetically proxied β1-blockers in HHD and HCM, providing genetic evidence for differential therapeutic responses and highlighting molecular targets for precision cardiovascular therapy. Show less
Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH), a subclinical state underlying mild cognitive impairment (MCI), triggers multiple pathological changes associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and vascular demen Show more
Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH), a subclinical state underlying mild cognitive impairment (MCI), triggers multiple pathological changes associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and vascular dementia (VaD), including amyloid-β (Aβ) deposition, tau phosphorylation, microglial activation and neural circuit dysfunction. Developing multitarget therapeutics to effectively prevent the transition from MCI to AD and/or VaD remains an urgent challenge. Herein, we engineered a brain-targeted dual-modified PEGylated nanoliposome (LipTM@miR-195), incorporating mannose (MAN) and the trans-activating protein of HIV type 1 (TAT), which encapsulates polyethyleneimine (PEI) complesed microRNA-195 (miR-195). In a CCH rat model, tail-vein administration of LipTM@miR-195 (0.112 mg/kg) efficiently crossed the blood-brain barrier (BBB) without detectable side effects. Treatment reversed CCH-induced spatial learning and memory deficits, rescued neural circuit dysfunction, and suppressed elevated APP, BACE1, AT8 and CD68 levels. Collectively, these findings provide compelling evidence that LipTM@miR-195 nanoliposome holds therapeutic potential for CCH-induced cognitive impairment, thereby preventing the progression from MCI to AD and/or VaD. Show less
C1q/TNF-related proteins (CTRPs) belong to the adipokine family. Here, we aimed to assess the relation of CTRP4 levels in serum and perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) with coronary artery disease (CAD Show more
C1q/TNF-related proteins (CTRPs) belong to the adipokine family. Here, we aimed to assess the relation of CTRP4 levels in serum and perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) with coronary artery disease (CAD), and investigate the effect of CTRP4 on atherosclerosis and the underlying mechanisms. CTRP4 levels were examined in serum and epicardial adipose tissue (a major PVAT) from patients with CAD. Atherosclerotic lesions were analysed in CTRP4 CTRP4 levels were lower in serum and epicardial adipose tissue of patients with CAD compared to non-CAD controls. CTRP4 knockout promoted atherosclerosis in ApoE Decreased CTRP4 levels in serum and epicardial adipose tissue are associated with CAD in patients. CTRP4 deficiency promotes the development of atherosclerosis in ApoE Show less
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive dysfunction that is closely associated with cholinergic system damage. Estrogen deficiency is a well-est Show more
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive dysfunction that is closely associated with cholinergic system damage. Estrogen deficiency is a well-established risk factor for AD in women. Osthole (OST), a phytoestrogen with mild, bidirectional regulatory properties, has been proposed as a potential estrogen replacement. This study aimed to investigate the mechanisms by which OST ameliorates cognitive impairment. Cognitive deficits were induced in female Sprague-Dawley rats by bilateral ovariectomy (OVX), and OST was subsequently administered by oral gavage. Behavioral tests revealed that OST significantly improved learning and memory and reduced anxiety-like and depression-like behaviors in OVX rats. H&E staining and Nissl staining demonstrated that OST reversed neuronal damage in the hippocampus and cortex. Western blotting, ELISA, and immunofluorescence staining indicated that OST treatment restored the estrogen-cholinergic-NGF axis: E Show less
Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory condition marked by the deposition of lipids within the arterial wall and the infiltration of inflammatory cells, culminating in the development of atheroscle Show more
Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory condition marked by the deposition of lipids within the arterial wall and the infiltration of inflammatory cells, culminating in the development of atherosclerotic plaques. Ubiquitin-specific protease 18, USP18, a specific deubiquitinating enzyme, has been demonstrated to exert protective effects on the cardiovascular system. Pathological studies were performed utilizing human coronary arteries obtained from the Forensic Medical Examination Center of Guizhou Medical University, in conjunction with the aorta from experimental ApoE knockout mice. The ApoE knockout mice underwent intervention with adenovirus carrying USP18-RNAi and a control adenovirus containing hU6-MCS-CMV-EGFP, after which pathological analyses were conducted. In vitro, THP-1 cells, induced with phorbol ester, were subjected to treatment with si-USP18 or si-NC, followed by exposure to oxidized low-density lipoprotein. The expression levels of USP18 and proteins associated with the TAK1/NF-κB signaling pathway, as well as the interaction between USP18 and TAK1, were assessed using Western blotting, RT-PCR, and immunofluorescence techniques.The interaction between USP18 and TAK1 was confirmed using molecular docking techniques, co-immunoprecipitation assays, and immunofluorescence analysis. The purpose of this study is to explore the role of USP18 on atherosclerosis and the underlying mechanism. The expression of USP18 is elevated in early-stage human coronary atherosclerotic plaques but decreases in advanced lesions. Treatment of macrophages derived from THP-1 cells and bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) results in reduced USP18 expression. In ApoE USP18 modulates TAK1 to suppress the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway in macrophages, consequently exerting an anti-atherosclerotic effect and offering a potential therapeutic strategy for atherosclerosis treatment. Show less
Growing evidence highlights that long-term orbital flight may lead to structural changes in brains and cognitive impairments in astronauts. However, effective strategies to counteract these effects re Show more
Growing evidence highlights that long-term orbital flight may lead to structural changes in brains and cognitive impairments in astronauts. However, effective strategies to counteract these effects remain limited. Compound Gastrodia elata Formula (CGEF), composed of Gastrodia elata Bl., Polygonatum sibirium Red., and Poria cocos (Schw.) Wolf has been shown to improve learning and memory. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects and underlying mechanisms of CGEF in attenuating cognitive deficiency induced by simulated weightlessness in mice. A cognitive impairment model was induced in mice using Hindlimb unloading (HU) method. Cognitive function was assessed through Object recognition test (ORT), the Morris water maze (MWM), and the Step-down Test (SDT). Serum and hippocampus levels of inflammatory markers, including Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), Tumor Necrosis Factor alpha (TNF-α), and Interleukin-6 (IL-6) were evaluated using ELISA. Neurotransmitter concentrations in the hippocampus and cortex were measured using LC-MS/MS. While Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) / Tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB) protein expression signaling pathway in hippocampus was evaluated by western blot. Results showed that CGEF treatment significantly reversed the memory deficits induced by four weeks of HU exposure. Furthermore, CGEF treatment markedly suppressed the production of inflammatory factors. It also assisted in the recovery of neurotransmitter balance and regulated tryptophan metabolism to improve cognitive disorder. Western blotting analysis revealed that CGEF treatment upregulated the expression of Synaptophysin, Postsynaptic density 95 proteins, while also activating the brain-derived neurotrophic factor-Tropomyosin receptor kinase B pathway. These findings suggest that CGEF has substantial potential for development as an aerospace health product to improve memory decline associated with spaceflight. Show less
To elucidate the molecular mechanism by which ginsenoside Rg3 (G-Rg3) protects human bronchial epithelial (HBE) cells against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced injury, focusing on its regulation of aut Show more
To elucidate the molecular mechanism by which ginsenoside Rg3 (G-Rg3) protects human bronchial epithelial (HBE) cells against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced injury, focusing on its regulation of autophagic flux and the TLR4/NF-κB-mediated inflammatory pathway. HBE cells were treated with LPS (1-100 ng/mL) to induce autophagy dysregulation and inflammation. G-Rg3 (2-16 μM) was administered to evaluate its protective effects. Western blotting was used to detect autophagy-related proteins (ATG4B, ATG7, PIK3C3, LC3B, p62) and TLR4/NF-κB signaling molecules; ELISA quantified proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-8); PI staining and flow cytometry analyzed cell death and apoptosis. LPS dose-dependently upregulated the expression of autophagy-related proteins (ATG4B, ATG7, PIK3C3, p62, LC3B-II), with accumulated p62 and LC3B-II indicating impaired clearance of autophagic substrates. Additionally, G-Rg3 inhibited LPS-induced TLR4/NF-κB activation, suppressed proinflammatory cytokine secretion, and attenuated HBE cell apoptosis/necrosis. G-Rg3 mitigates LPS-induced HBE cell injury by dual mechanisms: restoring impaired autophagic flux and inhibiting the TLR4/NF-κB inflammatory cascade. These findings identify G-Rg3 as a promising therapeutic agent targeting the crosstalk between autophagy and inflammation in respiratory diseases such as COPD and acute lung injury. Show less
Prednisone is used clinically during pregnancy. This study investigates whether prenatal prednisone exposure (PPE) affects susceptibility to high-fat diet (HFD)-induced metabolic dysfunction-associate Show more
Prednisone is used clinically during pregnancy. This study investigates whether prenatal prednisone exposure (PPE) affects susceptibility to high-fat diet (HFD)-induced metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) in adult offspring and explores underlying mechanisms. Pregnant Kunming mice were administered prednisone (0.25 or 1 mg/kg; PPE-L or PPE-H) or vehicle control (5% carboxymethyl cellulose; Ctrl) by daily gavage from gestational days 0-18. Offspring were assessed metabolically, histologically, and via RNA-Seq. Primary hepatocytes were treated with fatty acids with or without the epigenetic inhibitors to evaluate Nr1h3 expression and lipid deposition. Offspring body weight was similar in PPE-L vs Ctrl, but was reduced in PPE-H group followed by delayed growth. After 6-week HFD feeding, PPE-L offspring showed mild metabolic issues, while PPE-H males exhibited significant glucose/lipid disorders and hepatic steatosis compared to controls. RNA-Seq showed upregulation of hepatic lipid pathways in the PPE-H male offspring when challenged by HFD. The liver X receptor alpha (LXRα)-sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1 (SREBP1) signaling pathway and the expression of genes involved in de novo fatty acid synthesis were increased in PPE-H offspring under HFD. A485 significantly downregulated the expression of Nr1h3 in primary hepatocytes from male PPE-H offspring and alleviated lipid deposition in these hepatocytes treated with fatty acids. The H3K27ac level in the Nr1h3 promoter in the PPE-H offspring's liver was significantly upregulated. PPE-L impairs offspring glucose/lipid homeostasis, whereas PPE-H increase MAFLD risk of the offspring by epigenetic programming of the hepatic LXRα-SREBP1 pathway, especially in the males. Show less
Anoikis resistance and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) are crucial factors in tumor invasiveness and metastasis in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Identifying anoikis-EMT-related genes could be be Show more
Anoikis resistance and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) are crucial factors in tumor invasiveness and metastasis in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Identifying anoikis-EMT-related genes could be beneficial for predicting prognosis and immunotherapeutic efficacy in patients with LUAD. This study aims to establish and validate a novel prognostic signature based on anoikis-EMT-related genes for LUAD and to identify the potential biomarkers encapsulated within it. Anoikis-related genes and EMT-related genes were retrieved from the GeneCards and dbEMT 2.0 databases. Univariate Cox regression analysis and principal component analysis (PCA) were conducted to define anoikis and EMT levels. Gene expression and clinical information of patients with LUAD were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases. Univariate Cox regression and multivariate Cox regression analyses were conducted to construct a risk score model. Immune correlation and drug sensitivity analyses were performed to investigate the association of the risk score with the immune profile and antitumor treatment. Three essential genes in the model were examined for messenger RNA (mRNA) expression by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and for protein levels via the Human Protein Atlas (HPA) database. LUAD patients demonstrating low Anoikis Potential Index (API) combined with high EMT Potential Index (EPI) exhibited the poorest overall survival (OS). We further constructed a nine-gene prognostic risk model that combines anoikis and EMT. High-risk patients demonstrated significantly shorter survival duration. The clinical-prognostic nomogram accurately predicted outcomes at 1, 3, and 5 years. In addition, patients in low-risk group demonstrated superior immune responses to treatment and were more sensitive to commonly used chemotherapy drugs. Our validation studies confirmed upregulated expression of ANGPTL4, SLC2A1, and BIRC5 in LUAD, observed at both transcriptional and translational levels. The anoikis-EMT-based risk model effectively forecasts both OS and immunotherapy response in LUAD patients, accelerating the identification of groundbreaking molecular biomarkers and prospective molecular targets. Show less
Spinal cord injury (SCI) represents significant central nervous system trauma and has consistently been a focal point of research in the domain of neural regeneration and repair. Currently, there is n Show more
Spinal cord injury (SCI) represents significant central nervous system trauma and has consistently been a focal point of research in the domain of neural regeneration and repair. Currently, there is no effective treatment available. Various modalities of magnetic stimulation have emerged for recovery from spinal cord injuries; however, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear, significantly hindering the application of magnetic stimulation technologies in treating such injuries. This study aims to elucidate these relevant mechanisms by establishing a simulated closed-loop magnetic stimulation system. In this study, we established a right hemisection model at T8 in mice and administered continuous simulated closed-loop magnetic stimulation targeting the left motor cortex and right L5 nerve root over six weeks. We subsequently utilized a spinal cord dorsal hemisection model to examine regeneration of the corticospinal tract (CST). Motor-evoked potential assessments and calcium imaging techniques were employed to explore neural circuit repair. Additionally, we integrated transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics approaches to investigate related mechanisms. The findings indicate that simulated closed-loop magnetic stimulation effectively restores motor function in the hind limbs, promotes the regeneration of corticospinal tracts in mice with spinal cord injuries, and facilitates the reconstruction of sensorimotor circuits and functions within the spinal cord. Simulated closed-loop magnetic stimulation significantly enhances axonal regeneration of the CST following SCI. This effect may be mediated through the activation of the AMPK-CREB-BDNF signaling pathway, which promotes neurotrophic factor secretion and subsequently induces nerve axon regeneration. This study suggests that simulated closed-loop magnetic stimulation represents a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment for impaired gait following SCI. Show less
Clinical application of mesenchymal stem cells for endometrial repair has been hampered by variability in cell quality, large-scale production, and uncertainty regarding the optimal delivery route. In Show more
Clinical application of mesenchymal stem cells for endometrial repair has been hampered by variability in cell quality, large-scale production, and uncertainty regarding the optimal delivery route. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic potential of clinical-grade human embryonic stem cell-derived immunity-and-matrix-regulatory cells (IMRCs) for treating refractory moderate-to-severe intrauterine adhesion (IUA). In a rabbit IUA model, sub-endometrial injection of IMRCs significantly reduced fibrosis and enhanced endometrial angiogenesis, outperforming uterine perfusion. Transcriptomic analysis revealed distinct pro-angiogenic gene expression profiles between the two delivery routes. In vitro, IMRCs co-cultured with endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) markedly enhanced angiogenic potential compared to either cell type alone. Protein array analysis of the co-culture supernatant showed elevated levels of angiogenic factors, with functional assays confirming that inhibition of ANGPTL4, a non-canonical pro-angiogenic mediator, impaired angiogenesis. In a first-in-human, single-center, phase 1 dose-escalation trial involving 18 patients with refractory IUA, high-dose sub-endometrial IMRC injection promoted angiogenesis, reduced uterine scarring, and improved pregnancy outcomes, with no safety concerns observed over 3 years of follow-up. These findings highlight the translational promise of IMRCs as a novel therapeutic strategy for endometrial regeneration in severe IUA. Show less
The gastrointestinal system is of particular importance in radiation biodosimetry because of its constant cell renewal and sensitivity to radiation-induced injury. It has been reported that total abdo Show more
The gastrointestinal system is of particular importance in radiation biodosimetry because of its constant cell renewal and sensitivity to radiation-induced injury. It has been reported that total abdominal irradiation causes distant cognitive defects in a mouse model. In this study, we demonstrated that metformin alleviated the cognitive dysfunction caused by total abdominal irradiation. No neuropathological changes were observed in hippocampal tissues in control, irradiated, and irradiated plus metformin-treated groups. However, we found that metformin treatment improved the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor and the phosphorylation level of cAMP response element-binding in the hippocampus from irradiated mice. Furthermore, our results revealed that metformin treatment reduced the expression of miR-34a-5p, which targets the brain-derived neurotrophic factor mRNA, in the small intestine, peripheral blood, and hippocampus. More importantly, injection of miR-34a-5p agomir inhibited the enhancement effects of metformin on the cognitive defects induced by total abdominal irradiation, as well as the enhanced expression of BNDF and the phosphorylation level of cAMP response element-binding in the hippocampus. Thus, our results provide alternative strategies for the treatment of total abdominal irradiation-induced distant cognitive impairment using metformin and further confirmed that miR-34a-5p is a potential drug target to reduce the cognitive defects caused by total abdominal irradiation. Show less
Naringenin (NGN), a flavonoid widely utilized in agricultural and pharmaceutical applications, has increasingly become a source of environmental concern. This study systematically evaluated the develo Show more
Naringenin (NGN), a flavonoid widely utilized in agricultural and pharmaceutical applications, has increasingly become a source of environmental concern. This study systematically evaluated the developmental toxicity of NGN in zebrafish embryos. Our results showed that NGN exposure caused dose-dependent increases in embryonic mortality and induced a range of developmental malformations, including reduced body length, impaired eye and ear development, and cardiac dysfunction. Behavioral analyses revealed significant deficits in locomotor activity and sensory responses at concentrations of 5 and 10 mg/L. Molecular assessments via RT-qPCR demonstrated that NGN disrupted the expression of multiple genes critical for cardiac (kcnh2a, kcnh2b, hand2, has2, myh7, tnnt2a), otic (col2a1a, sox9a, sox9b), liver (hhex, leg1.1), visual (gnat1, gnat2), apoptotic (bax, casp9, casp3), and neurodevelopmental (pomca, bdnf, gfap, mbpa, s100b) pathways. Notably, NGN at 10 mg/L inhibited apoptosis and altered liver function, whereas a concentration of 15 mg/L promoted apoptosis, and these results suggest that NGN may interfere with the developmental processes of zebrafish embryos through different mechanisms at low and high concentrations, exhibiting a non-monotonic dose-response relationship. These findings highlight the potential ecological hazards of NGN contamination in aquatic environments, emphasizing the need for stricter management and further research into its long-term and combined effects with other pollutants. Our research offers new perspectives into the molecular and phenotypic mechanisms of NGN toxicity and underscores the importance of comprehensive risk assessment for emerging environmental contaminants. Show less
The integrated stress response (ISR) has been implicated in cognitive decline associated with ageing and neurodegenerative diseases. Pharmacological inhibition of the ISR using the small-molecule ISRI Show more
The integrated stress response (ISR) has been implicated in cognitive decline associated with ageing and neurodegenerative diseases. Pharmacological inhibition of the ISR using the small-molecule ISRIB has demonstrated promising neuroprotective effects in several preclinical models. However, its potential therapeutic value in vascular cognitive impairment (VCI) remains largely unexplored. Here, we established a modified permanent bilateral carotid occlusion (2-VO) rat model of VCI and investigated the therapeutic potential of the ISRIB via microinjection in hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG). VCI rats exhibited elevated expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), cluster of differentiation 34 (CD34), ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1 (Iba1), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6), indicating successful establishment of the model. Behavioral assessments revealed that VCI rats exhibited impaired spatial, working, and recognition memory. Bioinformatic analysis highlighted ISR pathway activation in VCI. Furthermore, elevated phosphorylated eukaryotic initiation factor 2 alpha (p-eIF2α) and activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4) protein levels in the DG confirmed ISR activation in the DG of VCI rats. VCI also reduced neuronal integrity, as evidenced by decreased Nissl body density. ISRIB treatment significantly improved cognitive performance, suppressed ATF4 expression, enhanced puromycin-labeled protein synthesis, and restored phosphorylated cAMP response element-binding protein (p-CREB) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signaling. Notably, ISRIB increased c-fos activation and upregulated synaptophysin and postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD95) expression in the DG of VCI rats, indicating enhanced neuronal activity and synaptic function. Our results indicate that ISR activation contributes to hippocampal-dependent memory impairment in VCI. ISRIB effectively restores synaptic function and cognition, underscoring its therapeutic value and translational potential in treating VCI. Show less
Autoimmune uveitis (AU) is a category of sight-threatening diseases with different pathological causes. Transcriptomic analysis of patients with AU revealed a highly oxidative stress profile as well a Show more
Autoimmune uveitis (AU) is a category of sight-threatening diseases with different pathological causes. Transcriptomic analysis of patients with AU revealed a highly oxidative stress profile as well as an up-regulated 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
Staphylococcus aureus is a significant pathogen that poses a threat to both human and animal health. Its pathogenicity in humans has been extensively studied, however, the signaling pathways and key g Show more
Staphylococcus aureus is a significant pathogen that poses a threat to both human and animal health. Its pathogenicity in humans has been extensively studied, however, the signaling pathways and key genes in Koi Carp responding to S. aureus from human rhinitis remain unclear. In this study, we established an intraperitoneal infection model in koi carp (Cyprinus carpio) using an S. aureus isolate from patients with rhinitis and integrated RNA-seq, qPCR, and ELISA to dissect the host response. Our findings reveal a dual-module immune evasion strategy employed by S. aureus in koi carp. Module I: The pathogen down-regulated the entire complement coagulation cascade (C3, C9, CFH, F7/9/10) and apolipoprotein-mediated opsonins (APOA1, APOB, APOC1/2), thereby crippling innate clearance. Module II: The host mounted a restricted but potent counter-response, characterized by type I IFN signalling (gvin1, MHC-I), NK/T-cell co-stimulation (CD244, SLAMF5), and the selective induction of IL-8 and IL-1β, while IL-6, IL-10, and TNF-α remained unchanged. Functionally, serum superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and lysozyme (LZM) activities surged, confirming an oxidative burst, whereas splenic CD22R protein decreased, indicating B-cell disinhibition. These results establish a molecular basis for understanding the interaction between human-derived S. aureus and the immune system of aquatic organisms. Show less
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
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
About 20-40% of prostate cancer (PCa) develop biochemical recurrence (BCR) after surgery, and propionate metabolism may contribute to tumor progression. BCR remains a major clinical challenge in PCa, Show more
About 20-40% of prostate cancer (PCa) develop biochemical recurrence (BCR) after surgery, and propionate metabolism may contribute to tumor progression. BCR remains a major clinical challenge in PCa, as current tools based on histopathology and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) fail to capture the molecular heterogeneity driving the disease. While metabolic reprogramming is known to facilitate post-treatment adaptation, the specific role of propionate metabolism in this context remains largely unexplored. Therefore, this study aimed to systematically investigate propionate metabolism-related genes (PMRGs) to develop a novel prognostic model for the improved early prediction of recurrence. In this study, The Cancer Genome Atlas-Prostate Adenocarcinoma (TCGA-PRAD), GSE70770 and 412 PMRGs were employed. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in PCa and control and DEGs2 in BCR and no BCR samples obtained by differential analysis were intersected with PMRGs to get candidate genes. After Cox and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analyses, biomarkers were identified to construct risk models. Biomarkers including In this study, PMRGs were regarded as biomarkers in PCa for risk model construction, which suggest that propionate metabolism represents a biologically relevant axis in PCa recurrence and may offer a novel framework for biomarker-driven risk assessment. Show less