Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects a quarter of the global population and poses a remarkably serious threat to human health. The effect and potential molecular mechanisms of combined col Show more
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects a quarter of the global population and poses a remarkably serious threat to human health. The effect and potential molecular mechanisms of combined cold exposure and exercise intervention on NAFLD remain unclear. A high-fat diet-induced NAFLD mouse model was used. Twenty-four NAFLD mice were divided into three groups and subjected to cold exposure (5°C), regular-temperature exercise (22°C), or combined cold exposure and exercise (5°C) for 8 wk, 5 d·wk -1 , once daily for 1 h each session. Intervention effects were evaluated through bodyweight, liver mass, liver/bodyweight ratio, blood lipid profile, circulating fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) levels, and liver histopathology. Immunoblotting and quantitative PCR were used to assess the protein and gene expression of liver FGF21, β-klotho, and FGFR1 to preliminarily elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying NAFLD improvement by combined cold exposure and exercise. Compared with cold exposure or regular-temperature exercise alone, combined cold exposure and exercise significantly reduced the bodyweight, liver weight, and liver/bodyweight ratio in the NAFLD mice. The levels of blood lipids, circulating FGF21, and liver glycogen also significantly decreased. Furthermore, the combined intervention significantly reduced liver fat deposition and fibrosis and significantly increased the expression of FGFR1 and β-klotho proteins, suggesting the activation of the FGF21-β-klotho/FGFR1 signaling pathway. This preclinical study demonstrates that combined cold exposure and exercise synergistically alleviates NAFLD progression in animal models, primarily by activating the FGF21-β-klotho/FGFR1 pathway to enhance lipid metabolism and reduce liver injury. These findings highlight the translational potential of dual environmental and behavioral interventions, providing a mechanistic foundation for developing nonpharmacological therapies targeting metabolic pathways in humans, particularly for NAFLD patients resistant to conventional lifestyle modifications or pharmacotherapy. Show less
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) poses a substantial global threat. SARS-CoV-2 nonstructural proteins (NSPs) are essential for impeding the host replication mechanism while Show more
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) poses a substantial global threat. SARS-CoV-2 nonstructural proteins (NSPs) are essential for impeding the host replication mechanism while also assisting in the production and organization of new viral components. However, NSPs are not incorporated into viral particles, and their subsequent fate within host cells remains poorly understood. Additionally, their role in viral pathogenesis requires further investigation. This study aimed to discover the ultimate fate of NSP6 in host cells and to elucidate its role in viral pathogenesis. We investigated the effects of NSP6 on cell death and explored the underlying mechanism; moreover, we examined the degradation mechanism of NSP6 in human cells, along with analysing its correlation with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) severity in patient peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). NSP6 was demonstrated to induce cell death. Specifically, NSP6 interacted with EI24 autophagy-associated transmembrane protein (EI24) to increase intracellular Ca This study reveals that KLHL22-mediated ubiquitination controls NSP6 stability and that NSP6 induces autophagic cell death via calcium overload, highlighting its cytotoxic role and suggesting therapeutic strategies that target calcium signaling or promote NSP6 degradation as potential interventions against COVID-19. Show less
Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide receptor (GIPR) and glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor (GLP-1R) are expressed in the central nervous system (CNS) and regulate food intake. Here, we demonstr Show more
Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide receptor (GIPR) and glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor (GLP-1R) are expressed in the central nervous system (CNS) and regulate food intake. Here, we demonstrate that a peptide-antibody conjugate that blocks GIPR while simultaneously activating GLP-1R (GIPR-Ab/GLP-1) requires both CNS GIPR and CNS GLP-1R for maximal weight loss in obese, primarily male, mice. Moreover, dulaglutide produces greater weight loss in CNS GIPR knockout (KO) mice, and the weight loss achieved with dulaglutide + GIPR-Ab is attenuated in CNS GIPR KO mice. Wild-type mice treated with GIPR-Ab/GLP-1 and CNS GIPR KO mice exhibit similar changes in gene expression related to tissue remodelling, lipid metabolism and inflammation in white adipose tissue and liver. Moreover, GIPR-Ab/GLP-1 is detected in circumventricular organs in the brain and activates c-FOS in downstream neural substrates involved in appetite regulation. Hence, both CNS GIPR and GLP-1R signalling are required for the full weight loss effect of a GIPR-Ab/GLP-1 peptide-antibody conjugate. Show less
Gliomas, particularly glioblastoma, are aggressive brain tumors with poor prognosis and unmet therapeutic needs. Structural maintenance of chromosomes 4 (SMC4), a core component of the condensin compl Show more
Gliomas, particularly glioblastoma, are aggressive brain tumors with poor prognosis and unmet therapeutic needs. Structural maintenance of chromosomes 4 (SMC4), a core component of the condensin complex, is dysregulated in multiple cancers, but its role in glioma metabolism and metastasis remains unclear. Using integrated multi-omics analyses of glioma datasets, we assessed SMC4 expression and its correlation with clinical outcomes. Functional studies in U-251MG and LN229 glioma cells including CCK-8, EdU, cell cycle, Transwell, and wound-healing assays were combined with subcutaneous xenograft and tail-vein metastasis mouse models to evaluate SMC4's effects on proliferation, migration, invasion, and metastasis. ECAR/OCR and rescue experiments validated SMC4's role in glycolysis. Luciferase reporter and ChIP assays identified nuclear factor I A (NFIA) as an upstream transcriptional regulator of SMC4. A prognostic model (SRRS) was developed via LASSO regression and validated across cohorts. SMC4 was significantly overexpressed in glioma tissues, with higher expression correlating with advanced tumor grades and poorer patient survival (AUC > 0.82). Mechanistically, SMC4 promoted G1/S cell cycle transition and proliferation SMC4 drives glioma progression through dual mechanisms TGF-β/SMAD-mediated metastasis and LDHA-dependent glycolysis regulated by NFIA. This extends beyond its known role in TGF-β activation by identifying NFIA as an upstream regulator and metabolic reprogramming as a novel function. The SRRS and nomogram provide robust tools for prognosis and personalized therapy, supporting the NFIA/SMC4 axis and downstream effectors as potential therapeutic targets for glioma. Show less
Diabetes mellitus and dyslipidemia are major risk factors for atherosclerosis. Hypoechoic plaques, which indicate vulnerable or unstable plaques, may rupture and lead to ischemic stroke, cognitive imp Show more
Diabetes mellitus and dyslipidemia are major risk factors for atherosclerosis. Hypoechoic plaques, which indicate vulnerable or unstable plaques, may rupture and lead to ischemic stroke, cognitive impairment, increased adverse cardiac events, and even death. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between plasma lipid levels and the characteristics of atherosclerotic plaques in adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. A retrospective analysis was conducted on adult patients with type 2 mellitus who were hospitalized in the Department of Endocrinology at Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University between January 2017 and December 2021.Patients were categorized into two groups based on arterial ultrasound results. Statistical analyses were performed to compare plasma lipid levels and plaque characteristics across the groups. 1) Statistically significant differences were observed among the two groups in terms of gender, hypertension, age, duration of diabetes mellitus, plaque location, triglycerides (TG),total cholesterol (TC), Apolipoprotein A1 (Apo A1),very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), VLDL/apolipoprotein B(ApoB), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL)/ApoA1 ( In clinical practice, the characteristics of atherosclerotic plaques and lipid profiles should be jointly evaluated to guide targeted treatment and effectively reduce the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Show less
Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide due to its high aggressive potential and drug resistance. Previous studies have revealed an impor Show more
Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide due to its high aggressive potential and drug resistance. Previous studies have revealed an important function of HECT And RLD Domain Containing E3 Ubiquitin Protein Ligase 5 (HERC5) in cancer. Six GEO gene microarrays identified HERC5 as a significant upregulated gene in OSCC tissues or cells (log2 Fold change > 1 and adj.p < 0.05). This study aimed to explore the role and underlying mechanisms of HERC5 in OSCC development. High HERC5 expression in OSCC tissues was confirmed by our hospital validation cohort and positively correlated with primary tumor stages. Subsequent functional studies demonstrated that knockdown of HERC5 inhibited the migratory and invasive capabilities with decrease of Vimentin and increase of E-cadherin in OSCC cells. In cisplatin treatment, cell survival rates were significantly reduced in HERC5-silencing OSCC cells, accompanied by the increase in cytotoxicity, DNA damage and apoptosis. OSCC cell-derived tumor xenograft displayed that HERC5 depletion inhibited pulmonary metastasis as well as restored the cisplatin-induced tumor burden. In line with this, overexpression of HERC5 yielded the opposite alterations both in vivo and in vitro. Mechanistically, UDP-glucose 6-dehydrogenase (UGDH) was identified as a HERC5-binding protein. Cysteine residue at position 994 in the HECT domain of HERC5 catalyzed the conjugation of ubiquitin-like protein Interferon-induced 15 kDa protein (ISG15) to UGDH (ISGylation of UGDH) and facilitated its phosphorylation, therefore enhancing SNAI1 mRNA stability. SNAI1 depletion inhibited HERC5 overexpression-triggered invasion and cisplatin resistance of OSCC cells. Our study indicates that HERC5 may be a promising therapeutic target for OSCC. Show less
The AMPK/SIRT1/PGC-1α pathway serves as a central regulator of cellular energy homeostasis, coordinating metabolic stress responses, epigenetic modifications, and transcriptional programs. Its dysfunc Show more
The AMPK/SIRT1/PGC-1α pathway serves as a central regulator of cellular energy homeostasis, coordinating metabolic stress responses, epigenetic modifications, and transcriptional programs. Its dysfunction is implicated in the pathogenesis of a wide spectrum of complex modern diseases, spanning neurodegeneration, metabolic syndromes, and chronic inflammatory conditions. This review examines the pathway's role as an integrative hub and its potential as a therapeutic target. We synthesize current mechanistic evidence from molecular, cellular, and preclinical studies to elucidate the pathway's operational logic and the consequences of its dysregulation. The analysis is structured around key disease paradigms-including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, diabetes, cardiovascular injury, stroke, and chronic kidney disease-to dissect its tissue-specific pathophysiological impacts. The AMPK/SIRT1/PGC-1α axis operates through a core positive feedback loop: AMPK activation elevates NAD+, thereby activating SIRT1, which in turn deacetylates and activates PGC-1α to drive mitochondrial biogenesis and function, further reinforcing SIRT1 activity. Disruption of this cascade manifests in disease-specific mechanisms: promoting Aβ production via BACE1/γ-secretase in Alzheimer's; impairing α-synuclein clearance in Parkinson's; disrupting GLUT4 translocation and insulin signaling in diabetes; exacerbating oxidative damage and mitochondrial dysfunction in cardiovascular and neuronal injury; and accelerating fibrosis and sustained inflammation in renal and pulmonary diseases via NLRP3 and TGF-β/Smad3 signaling. The AMPK/SIRT1/PGC-1α pathway represents a cornerstone target at the intersection of metabolism, aging, and disease. Current therapeutic strategies-including pharmacological activators (e.g., metformin, SRT1720), natural compounds (e.g., resveratrol), lifestyle interventions (e.g., exercise, caloric restriction), and emerging technologies (e.g., gene editing, exosomal miRNAs)-offer multidimensional avenues for intervention. Future research must prioritize elucidating tissue-specific regulatory mechanisms, such as AMPK isoform diversity and PGC-1α interactome dynamics, to enable precision therapeutics and successful clinical translation for a range of complex disorders. Show less
Previous studies have investigated the role of metabolic factors in risk of hematological malignancies with contradicting findings. Existing studies are generally limited by potential concern of rever Show more
Previous studies have investigated the role of metabolic factors in risk of hematological malignancies with contradicting findings. Existing studies are generally limited by potential concern of reverse causality and confounding by inflammation. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the associations of glucose, lipid, and apolipoprotein biomarkers with the risk of hematological malignancy. We performed a study of over 560,000 individuals of the Swedish AMORIS cohort, with measurements of biomarkers for carbohydrate, lipid, and apolipoprotein metabolism during 1985-1996 and follow-up until 2020. We conducted a prospective cohort study and used Cox models to investigate the association of nine different metabolic biomarkers (glucose, total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), LDL-C/HDL-C, triglyceride (TG), apolipoprotein B (ApoB), apolipoprotein A-I (ApoA I), and ApoB/ApoA-I) with risk of hematological malignancy, after excluding the first five years of follow-up and adjustment for inflammatory biomarkers. We observed a decreased risk of hematological malignancy associated with one SD increase of TC (HR 0.93; 95% CI 0.91-0.96), LDL-C (HR 0.94; 95% CI 0.91-0.97), HDL-C (HR 0.92; 95% CI 0.86-0.99), and ApoA-I (HR 0.96; 95% CI 0.93-0.996). Our study highlights a decreased risk of hematological malignancy associated with a higher level of TC, LDL-C, HDL-C, and ApoA-I. Show less
The common variant PNPLA3-I148M, globally, is the most significant genetic risk factor for fatty liver disease. However, it is unclear precisely how I148M drives disease risk. Using human hepatoma cel Show more
The common variant PNPLA3-I148M, globally, is the most significant genetic risk factor for fatty liver disease. However, it is unclear precisely how I148M drives disease risk. Using human hepatoma cells expressing endogenous I148M, we find that the variant impairs cellular secretion of apolipoprotein B (ApoB), the scaffolding protein of very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL). This is not due to loss-of-function of wild-type PNPLA3. Expression of human I148M in primary hepatocytes and mice also hinders VLDL secretion. Lipidomic profiling reveals a shift from polyunsaturated phosphatidylcholine to polyunsaturated triglycerides in I148M cells, reducing membrane fluidity and, concomitantly, VLDL biogenesis. ApoB secretion is substantially rescued in I148M cells overexpressing ABHD5/CGI-58, an I148M-binding partner that normally activates ATGL/PNPLA2-mediated triglyceride lipolysis. Conversely, knocking down CGI-58 or PNPLA2 mimics I148M. We propose that I148M is a neomorph that exacerbates fatty liver risk by simultaneously impeding two major CGI-58-dependent pathways for liver triglyceride clearance: lipolysis and secretion. Show less
To investigate the association between polymorphisms of the A case-control study was conducted, enrolling 100 HTG patients and 100 age-matched controls with normal triglyceride levels from the physica Show more
To investigate the association between polymorphisms of the A case-control study was conducted, enrolling 100 HTG patients and 100 age-matched controls with normal triglyceride levels from the physical examination cohort at Guangzhou 11th People's Hospital (January-December 2023) The observation group showed significant differences in genotype frequencies of Show less
Zhige Yan, Xiajun Guo, Ying Hu+2 more · 2025 · Supportive care in cancer : official journal of the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer · Springer · added 2026-04-24
To elucidate the accurate roles of dysfunctional sleep beliefs in modulating cancer-related fatigue (CRF), identify distinct sleep hygiene profiles, and assess whether and how these profiles serve as Show more
To elucidate the accurate roles of dysfunctional sleep beliefs in modulating cancer-related fatigue (CRF), identify distinct sleep hygiene profiles, and assess whether and how these profiles serve as mediators in lung cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. This study recruited 396 lung cancer patients receiving chemotherapy between May and December 2023. Participants completed the Sleep Hygiene Index, Brief Fatigue Inventory, and Dysfunctional Beliefs and Attitudes about Sleep Scale. Latent profile analysis (LPA) was conducted to identify profiles of sleep hygiene, and mediation analysis was performed to explore the impacts of sleep hygiene profiles and dysfunctional sleep beliefs on CRF. LPA revealed three distinct sleep hygiene profiles: normal (33.3%), excellent (50.3%), and poor (16.4%). Family monthly disposable income, radiotherapy, and performance status were identified as influential factors distinguishing these profiles. Additionally, the dimensions of dysfunctional sleep beliefs and sleep hygiene profiles showed different correlations with CRF. With the normal sleep hygiene group as reference, mediation analysis revealed that poor sleep hygiene serves as a mediator between sleep worry of dysfunctional sleep beliefs and CRF (SE = 0.010, 95% CI [0.006, 0.047]). This study contributes to understanding the heterogeneity in sleep hygiene in lung cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy and elucidates the underlying mechanisms of the relationship between sleep worry of dysfunctional cognitions and CRF. Clinical healthcare providers developing targeted interventions in terms of sleep beliefs and sleep hygiene might be helpful to alleviate CRF in this population. Show less
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is frequently accompanied with metabolic dysfunctions, yet the causal relationships between metabolic factors and PCOS remain to be conclusively established and etiolo Show more
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is frequently accompanied with metabolic dysfunctions, yet the causal relationships between metabolic factors and PCOS remain to be conclusively established and etiology-based therapies are lacking. To comprehensively identify the metabolic causal factors and potential drug targets for PCOS. This genetic association study was conducted using bidirectional two-sample Mendelian Randomization (MR), multivariable MR (MVMR) and drug-target MR. Considering metabolic sexual dimorphism, female-specific genome-wide association studies (GWASs) for metabolic factors were obtained. To ensure the robustness of the findings, an additional independent PCOS GWAS dataset was utilized for replication. The PCOS cohort included 10,074 PCOS cases (mean age 28 to 45 years) and 103,164 controls (mean age 27 to 60 years) of European ancestry. All participants were female. Employing two-sample MR analysis, we found that genetically proxied body mass index (BMI) (OR = 3.40 [95 % CI, 2.65-4.36]), triglyceride (TG) (OR = 1.54 [95 % CI, 1.17-2.04]), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) (OR = 1.37 [95 % CI, 1.07-1.76]), and type 2 diabetes (T2D) (OR = 1.24 [95 % CI, 1.09-1.41]) were significantly associated with an increased risk of PCOS, whereas genetically predicted high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) (OR = 0.61 [95 % CI, 0.47-0.80]) decreased the odds of PCOS. Stepwise MVMR established a hierarchy of interactions among these metabolic factors, identifying BMI and HDL-c as the most prominent causal factors. Notably, drug-target MR analysis identified incretin-based therapeutics, PCSK9 inhibitors, LPL gene therapy, sulfonylureas, and thiazolidinediones as potential therapeutics for PCOS. All these findings were validated in an independent dataset. This study offered insights into the roles of obesity, diabetes, and dyslipidemia in PCOS etiology and therapeutics, underscoring the necessity for managing metabolic health in women and paving the way for tailored therapeutic strategies for PCOS based on its metabolic underpinnings. Show less
Foam cells derived from macrophages and smooth muscle cells (SMCs) play a pivotal role in the progression of atherosclerosis. While phytosterols (PS) have demonstrated cholesterol-lowering and anti-in Show more
Foam cells derived from macrophages and smooth muscle cells (SMCs) play a pivotal role in the progression of atherosclerosis. While phytosterols (PS) have demonstrated cholesterol-lowering and anti-inflammatory properties, their impact on foam cells remains elusive. Here, we investigated the effects of PS on foam cell formation, inflammatory responses, and lipid metabolism using both single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and functional assays. scRNA-seq of aortic tissue from 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 quality of eggshells holds substantial economic significance and serves as a critical selection criterion in poultry breeding. Eggshell translucency significantly impairs their aesthetic quality, Show more
The quality of eggshells holds substantial economic significance and serves as a critical selection criterion in poultry breeding. Eggshell translucency significantly impairs their aesthetic quality, which is structurally attributed to the thinning of the eggshell membrane or reduced tensile strength. In this study, 836 dwarf white hens were selected, with 45 hens each assigned to the opaque group and the translucent group. Grading for eggshell translucency was conducted at 75, 80, and 85 weeks of age. Based on the results from these three gradings, 35 hens that consistently produced translucent eggs and 35 hens that consistently produced opaque eggs were reclassified into the translucent group and the opaque group, respectively. The thickness of the eggshell membrane, latitudinal and longitudinal tensile force and length, and other indicators related to eggshell membrane quality were measured. Correlation analysis was performed using RNA-seq genomics and DIA proteomics based on the relationships among these indicators. Transcriptome analysis revealed 179 significantly differentially expressed genes, indicating that the causes of translucent eggshells are associated with metabolism, signal transduction, the immune system, molecular binding, transport, and catabolism. Seven potential candidate genes, including Show less
Chronic diseases have become a major public health challenge facing the world. Identifying key factors and developing effective management strategies to promote proactive health behaviors in patients Show more
Chronic diseases have become a major public health challenge facing the world. Identifying key factors and developing effective management strategies to promote proactive health behaviors in patients is crucial for improving health outcomes. This study aims to construct a comprehensive model of proactive health behaviors in chronic disease patients, elucidate multilevel determinants, and guide targeted policy interventions in China. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 805 patients with chronic diseases in China. Latent profile analysis (LPA) was conducted to identify distinct profiles of proactive health behaviors among patients. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to verify and analyze the determinants affecting the proactive health behaviors of patients. Among the 805 participants, 471 were classified as highly proactive, and 334 were classified as less proactive. The average score for proactive health behaviors was 70.37 ± 10.93. Several factors positively predicted proactive health behaviors: patients aged > 74 years (AOR = 8.85, 95% CI 2.06-39.45), married patients (AOR = 1.78, 95% CI 1.02-3.11), urban residents (AOR= 1.33, 95% CI 1.04-1.70), those with stronger health intentions (AOR = 1.42, 95% CI 1.28-1.60), higher self-efficacy (AOR = 1.12, 95% CI 1.04-1.20), positive health beliefs (AOR = 1.21, 95% CI 1.09-1.34)), and greater community support (AOR = 1.18, 95% CI 1.07-1.32). Regarding policy support, perceiving an adequate upper payment limit for drugs was associated with twice the odds of proactive health behaviors (AOR = 2.61, 95% CI 1.44-4.78). Additionally, age and the medication reimbursement policy for drug expenses exerted negative effects on proactive health behaviors (β = -0.507, P < 0.01). Governments should transform medical insurance from a passive payer into an active health investor. By incorporating behavioral economics principles, such a reform reallocates policy design, resources, and decision-making power toward disadvantaged populations. This shift breaks the "well-intentioned policy trap", achieving lower medical costs alongside improved population health. Show less
Glioma is a highly aggressive malignancy with no effective treatment. This study investigates the role of protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor type N (PTPRN) in glioma progression. The U87 human glio Show more
Glioma is a highly aggressive malignancy with no effective treatment. This study investigates the role of protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor type N (PTPRN) in glioma progression. The U87 human glioma cell line was used to monitor proliferation, invasion, and migration during PTPRN knockdown. The viability, migration, and invasion were analyzed using the Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, transwell migration, and invasion assays. Additionally, the expression of proteins associated with the cell cycle was examined using western blotting. The knockdown of PTPRN resulted in a reduction in glioma cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, as well as the expression of cell cycle markers like Show less
The differential impact of serum lipids and their targets for lipid modification on cardiometabolic disease risk is debated. This study used Mendelian randomization to investigate the causal relations Show more
The differential impact of serum lipids and their targets for lipid modification on cardiometabolic disease risk is debated. This study used Mendelian randomization to investigate the causal relationships and underlying mechanisms. Genetic variants related to lipid profiles and targets for lipid modification were sourced from the Global Lipids Genetics Consortium. Summary data for 10 cardiometabolic diseases were compiled from both discovery and replication data sets. Expression quantitative trait loci data from relevant tissues were employed to evaluate significant lipid-modifying drug targets. Comprehensive analyses including colocalization, mediation, and bioinformatics were conducted to validate the results and investigate potential mediators and mechanisms. Significant causal associations were identified between lipids, lipid-modifying drug targets, and various cardiometabolic diseases. Notably, genetic enhancement of LPL (lipoprotein lipase) was linked to reduced risks of myocardial infarction (odds ratio [OR] The study substantiates the causal role of lipids in specific cardiometabolic diseases, highlighting LPL as a potent drug target. The effects of LPL are suggested to be influenced by changes in glucose and blood pressure, providing insights into its mechanism of action. Show less
Tumor fibrosis is recognized as a malignant hallmark in various solid tumors; however, the clinical importance and associated molecular characteristics of tumor fibrosis in liver metastases (LM) from Show more
Tumor fibrosis is recognized as a malignant hallmark in various solid tumors; however, the clinical importance and associated molecular characteristics of tumor fibrosis in liver metastases (LM) from colorectal cancer (CRLM) remain poorly understood. Here we show that patients with CRLM whose liver metastases (LM) exhibited tumor fibrosis (Fibrosis+ LM) had significantly worse progression-free survival (P = 0.025) and overall survival (P = 0.008). Single-cell RNA sequencing revealed that the tumor microenvironment of the Fibrosis+ LM was characterized by T cells with an exhausted phenotype, macrophages displaying a profibrotic and suppressive phenotype and fibrosis-promoting fibroblasts. Further investigation highlighted the pivotal role of VCAN_eCAF in remodeling the tumor fibrosis in the tumor microenvironment of Fibrosis+ LM, emphasizing potential targetable interactions such as FGF23 or FGF3-FGFR1. Validation through multiplex immunohistochemistry/immunofluorescence and spatial transcriptomics supported these findings. Here we present a comprehensive single-cell atlas of tumor fibrosis in LM, revealing the intricate multicellular environment and molecular features associated with it. These insights deepen our understanding of tumor fibrosis mechanisms and inform improved clinical diagnosis and treatment strategies. Show less
Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is a practical and effective method for treating coronary heart disease (CHD). This study aims to explore the influencing factors of major cardiovascular event Show more
Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is a practical and effective method for treating coronary heart disease (CHD). This study aims to explore the influencing factors of major cardiovascular events (MACEs) and hospital readmission risk within one year following PCI treatment. Additionally, it seeks to assess the clinical value of Apolipoprotein B/Apolipoprotein A-I (ApoB/ApoA-I) in predicting the risk of one-year MACEs and readmission post-PCI. A retrospective study included 1938 patients who underwent PCI treatment from January 2010 to December 2018 at Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated with Shandong First Medical University. Patient demographics, medications, and biochemical indicators were recorded upon admission, with one-year follow-up post-operation. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression models were utilized to establish the relationship between ApoB/ApoA-I levels and MACEs/readmission. Predictive nomograms were constructed to forecast MACEs and readmission, with the accuracy of the nomograms assessed using the concordance index. Subgroup analyses were conducted to explore the occurrence of MACEs and readmission. We observed a correlation between ApoB/ApoA-I and other lipid indices, including total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (P < 0.001). Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses demonstrated that ApoB/ApoA-I is an independent risk factor for MACEs in post-PCI patients (P = 0.038). Within one year, the incidence of MACEs significantly increased in the high-level ApoB/ApoA-I group (ApoB/ApoA-I ratio ≥ 0.824) (P = 0.038), while the increase in readmission incidence within one year was not statistically significant. Furthermore, a nomogram predicting one-year MACEs was established (Concordance Index: 0.668). Subgroup analysis revealed that ApoB/ApoA-I was associated with the occurrence of both MACEs and readmission in male patients, those using CCB/ARB/ACEI, those without multivessel diseases, or those with LDL-C < 2.6 mmol/L. The ApoB/ApoA-I ratio serves as an independent risk factor for one-year MACEs in post-PCI patients and correlates closely with other blood lipid indicators. ApoB/ApoA-I demonstrates significant predictive value for the occurrence of MACEs within one year.Trial registration Chinese clinical trial registry: No.ChiCTR22000597-23. Show less
Second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) are widely used to treat schizophrenia (SCZ), but they often induce metabolic side effects like dyslipidemia and obesity. We conducted genome-wide association s Show more
Second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) are widely used to treat schizophrenia (SCZ), but they often induce metabolic side effects like dyslipidemia and obesity. We conducted genome-wide association studies (GWASs) to identify genetic variants associated with SGA-induced lipid and BMI changes in Chinese SCZ patients. A longitudinal cohort of Chinese SCZ receiving SGAs was followed for up to 18.7 years (mean = 5.7 years, SD = 3.3 years). We analysed the patients' genotypes (N = 669), lipid profiles, and BMI using 19 316 prescription records and 3 917 to 7 596 metabolic measurements per outcome. Linear mixed models were employed to evaluate seven SGAs' random effects on metabolic changes for each patient, followed by GWAS and gene set analyses with Bonferroni and FDR correction. Five SNPs achieved p-value < 5 × 10 Show less
To investigate the effect of tannic acid (TA) on the growth, disease resistance, and intestinal health of Chinese soft-shelled turtles, individual turtles were fed with 0 g/kg (CG), 0.5 g/kg, 1 g/kg, Show more
To investigate the effect of tannic acid (TA) on the growth, disease resistance, and intestinal health of Chinese soft-shelled turtles, individual turtles were fed with 0 g/kg (CG), 0.5 g/kg, 1 g/kg, 2 g/kg, and 4 g/kg TA diets for 98 days. Afterwards, the turtles' disease resistance was tested using Show less
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is an inherited cardiovascular disorder characterized by left ventricular hypertrophy and an elevated risk of sudden cardiac death. Cardiac myosin binding protein C ( Show more
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is an inherited cardiovascular disorder characterized by left ventricular hypertrophy and an elevated risk of sudden cardiac death. Cardiac myosin binding protein C (MYBPC3) is the most frequently mutated gene leading to HCM. In this study, peripheral blood mononuclear cells isolated from an HCM patient harboring a heterozygous MYBPC3 missense mutation (c.3072C > A; p.S1024R) were reprogrammed via Sendai virus vectors to generate a patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) line. The iPSC line exhibits normal morphology and karyotype, alongside definitive hallmarks of pluripotency, including trilineage differentiation potential. Show less
This study aimed to explore the genotype and phenotype correlation of patients with multiple osteochondroma (MO), and validate phenotypic differences in ATDC5 cell model with Mutation analysis was emp Show more
This study aimed to explore the genotype and phenotype correlation of patients with multiple osteochondroma (MO), and validate phenotypic differences in ATDC5 cell model with Mutation analysis was employed in 27 families with MO using polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-Sanger sequencing and targeted next-generation sequencing (t-NGS). ATDC5 cell model with A total of 27 pathogenic mutations were identified in Clinical research identified nine novel mutations in Show less
Cholesterol-loaded macrophage foam cells are a key feature of atherosclerotic plaques. Oxysterol-binding protein-related protein 2 (ORP2) facilitates the transport of cholesterol from lysosomes to the Show more
Cholesterol-loaded macrophage foam cells are a key feature of atherosclerotic plaques. Oxysterol-binding protein-related protein 2 (ORP2) facilitates the transport of cholesterol from lysosomes to the plasma membrane in cultured cell lines. However, the role of ORP2 in macrophages and its involvement in atherosclerosis remain unclear. In this study, we found ORP2 expression was reduced in atherosclerotic vessels and in macrophages exposed to oxidized LDL (ox-LDL). Myeloid-specific human ORP2 overexpression (hORP2 Show less
Ischemic injury induces a partial mesenchymal shift in endothelial cells (ECs), contributing to impaired vascular regeneration. However, the molecular regulators of this transitional state remain poor Show more
Ischemic injury induces a partial mesenchymal shift in endothelial cells (ECs), contributing to impaired vascular regeneration. However, the molecular regulators of this transitional state remain poorly defined. To address this, we performed circular RNA profiling of endothelial cells under ischemic-like conditions and identified a marked upregulation of a circular RNA, named circATXN1. Functional studies revealed that circATXN1 knockdown modulates endothelial phenotype and vascular response after ischemia. Functional studies have shown that knockdown of circATXN1 can regulate the endothelial cell phenotype and vascular response after ischemia. Mechanistically, circATXN1 knockdown enhances the demethylase protein ALKBH5 to reduce the RNA methylation level of the key transcription factor SLUG, thereby stabilizing SLUG. In animal models, suppression of circATXN1 enhances angiogenesis and improves recovery following ischemic injury. Here, we show that circATXN1 regulates partial endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) and angiogenesis by controlling SLUG mRNA methylation dynamics, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target in ischemic disease. Show less
Glucose homeostasis, essential for metabolic health, requires coordinated insulin and glucagon activity to maintain blood glucose balance. Dysregulation of glucose homeostasis causes hyperglycaemia an Show more
Glucose homeostasis, essential for metabolic health, requires coordinated insulin and glucagon activity to maintain blood glucose balance. Dysregulation of glucose homeostasis causes hyperglycaemia and glucose intolerance, hallmark features of type 2 diabetes. While SEC16 homologue B (SEC16B), an endoplasmic reticulum export factor, has been linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes and lipid metabolism, its role in glucose regulation remains poorly defined. This study aims to investigate SEC16B's contribution to glucose homeostasis by systematically dissecting its conserved physiological mechanisms across species. To interrogate SEC16B's role, we combined Drosophila genetics (RNA interference-mediated dSec16 knockdown) with murine models (Sec16b deletion) under standard or high-fat diet conditions. Glucose and insulin tolerance tests assessed glucose homeostasis. Mechanistic insights into beta cell dysfunction were derived from immunostaining, glucose-stimulated insulin secretion assays and RNA-seq profiling of murine pancreatic islets. Both disruption of dSec16 in Drosophila and Sec16b deletion in mice triggered glucose intolerance under standard diet conditions, recapitulating conserved metabolic dysfunction. In addition, Sec16b loss impaired glycaemic control in mice fed a high-fat diet. Mechanistically, Sec16b deficiency impairs insulin secretion by downregulating cholinergic signalling and compromising intracellular Ca Our study reveals SEC16B, a genome-wide association study-identified obesity risk gene, as an evolutionarily conserved regulator of glucose homeostasis. By linking SEC16B to cholinergic-driven insulin secretion and calcium dynamics, we resolve a mechanistic gap in beta cell dysfunction and metabolic disease. This finding provides novel insights into the mechanisms underlying glucose homeostasis and may enhance our understanding of potential treatments for metabolic diseases. Show less
Protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5) complexes with methylosome protein 50 (MEP50) play crucial roles in tumor progress. However, the regulatory mechanism of governing the PRMT5-MEP50 hetero-o Show more
Protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5) complexes with methylosome protein 50 (MEP50) play crucial roles in tumor progress. However, the regulatory mechanism of governing the PRMT5-MEP50 hetero-octameric complex remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that C6orf223, to our knowledge an uncharacterized protein, facilitates PRMT5-MEP50 multiprotein complex assembling, thereby promoting colorectal cancer (CRC) growth and metastasis. C6orf223 forms dimers through disulfide bonds, with its N-terminal arginine-enriched region binding to the C-terminal negatively charged groove of PRMT5, thus stabilizing PRMT5-MEP50 multiprotein and enhancing PRMT5 methyltransferase activity. Consequently, PRMT5-mediated H4R3me2s substantially decreases the expression of the tumor suppressor GATA5, leading to the upregulation of multiple oncogenic target genes including WWTR1, FGFR1, and CLU. Targeting C6orf223 using siRNAs encapsulated in ferritin protein shells effectively suppresses CRC tumor growth and metastasis. Collectively, our findings characterize the role of C6orf223 in facilitating PRMT5-MEP50 hetero-octameric complex assembling and suggest that C6orf223 could serve as a potential therapeutic target for CRC. Show less