Focal articular cartilage defects often progress to osteoarthritis, imposing a substantial global health burden. Current neglect of cartilage developmental regulation and cartilage microenvironment co Show more
Focal articular cartilage defects often progress to osteoarthritis, imposing a substantial global health burden. Current neglect of cartilage developmental regulation and cartilage microenvironment compromises therapeutic efficacy. We developed an innovation CE-SKP/CPH/P2G3 scaffold which effectively repairs focal cartilage defects and emulates native cartilage ontogeny: the superficial CE-SKP hydrogel layer recruits SMSCs and promotes chondrogenesis; the middle CPH hydrogel layer induces chondrocyte hypertrophic calcification, forming cartilage calcified layer; and the basal P2G3 nanofiber membrane isolates subchondral cells, enforcing a top-down developmental sequence and preserving a localized hypoxic niche. 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
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a complicated pathological cancer, which has a close association with pyroptosis and abnormal alternative splicing (AS). However, the molecular changes and functions Show more
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a complicated pathological cancer, which has a close association with pyroptosis and abnormal alternative splicing (AS). However, the molecular changes and functions of AS-mediated pyroptosis in cisplatin-resistant NPC cells remain poorly understood. The expression patterns of different splicing isomers of dual-specificity phosphatase 6 (DUSP6) were evaluated by semi-quantitative PCR. The effects of DUSP6 knockdown on cisplatin sensitivity and pyroptosis in NPC were examined by CCK-8 assay, immunofluorescence and ELISA. The occurrence mechanism of DUSP6 AS was explored by RNA pull down, mass spectrometry and MeRIP-PCR. DUSP6 underwent AS, among which the intron retention isoform DUSp6-IR1 increased in expression dependent on the dose and time of cisplatin. Knockdown of DUSP6-IR1 significantly suppressed viability and cisplatin resistance and promoted apoptosis of C666-1 cells upon cisplatin treatment. In vivo, sh-DUSP6-IR1 reduced the weight and volume of tumors. While DUSP6-IR1 knockdown in C666-1 cells enhanced pyroptosis (evidenced by elevated LDH release, Gasdermin D (GSDMD)/NOD-like receptor thermal protein domain associated protein 3 (NLRP3) expression, and IL-18/IL-1β levels, along with reduced cell viability), these effects were reversed by a pyroptosis inhibitor. The m6A reader protein insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA-binding protein 3 (IGF2BP3) enhanced the splicing generation of the DUSP6-IR1 isoform through its KH3-4 domains, thereby suppressing pyroptosis in NPC cells and ultimately conferring cisplatin resistance. These findings revealed a promising novel direction to investigate cisplatin resistance and suggested potential therapeutic target for overcoming chemotherapy resistance in NPC. The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-025-15337-9. Show less
Our understanding of the intrinsic mechanisms that drive the regeneration of damaged axons after a spinal cord injury is still limited. Microtubules are core components of the eukaryotic cytoskeleton Show more
Our understanding of the intrinsic mechanisms that drive the regeneration of damaged axons after a spinal cord injury is still limited. Microtubules are core components of the eukaryotic cytoskeleton and are essential for axonal growth, in part because their stability is governed by post-translational modifications in mature neurons. Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and its receptor (GIPR) are expressed in multiple extra-pancreatic tissues, suggesting biological functions beyond classical endocrine signaling; however, their roles in neuronal cytoskeletal regulation are not well defined. Here, we investigated the effects of GIP in cultured cortical neurons. GIP enhanced microtubule stability and increased the number of axons crossing an inhibitory chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan (CSPG) border. Mechanistically, GIP promoted microtubule acetylation via α-tubulin N-acetyltransferase 1 (αTAT1), the major acetyltransferase for α-tubulin, by suppressing αTAT1 ubiquitination and thereby reducing its proteasomal degradation in inhibitory environments. Although the upstream mechanism remains to be determined, this study provides the first evidence that GIP/GIPR signaling modulates microtubule dynamics, highlighting a potential strategy to re-activate neuronal growth machinery after injury. Show less
Sodium perfluorononenoxybenzene sulfonate (OBS), a substitute for perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), has been frequently detected in the environment and human blood. Although OBS exposure has been iden Show more
Sodium perfluorononenoxybenzene sulfonate (OBS), a substitute for perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), has been frequently detected in the environment and human blood. Although OBS exposure has been identified as a novel risk factor for atherosclerosis associated with endothelial dysfunction, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, in vitro experiments using human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) demonstrated that OBS exposure induced oxidative stress, activated the PERK-eIF2α-ATF4 axis of endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and triggered NF-κB signaling. Pharmacological inhibition with N-acetylcysteine (NAC, an antioxidant), 4-phenylbutyric acid (4-PBA, an ERS inhibitor), and BAY 11-7082 (an inhibitor for NF-κB signaling pathway) revealed a sequential pathogenic cascade, in which oxidative stress acts upstream to initiate ERS and compromise endothelial barrier function, leading to NF-κB activation, which drives inflammatory responses, monocyte adhesion, and impaired endothelial migration. Consistent with these findings, in vivo experiments in ApoE 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
Current in vitro enzyme inhibition assays often involve subjective data analysis based on the researcher's experience. In this study, we developed a multi-dimensional quantitative integration platform Show more
Current in vitro enzyme inhibition assays often involve subjective data analysis based on the researcher's experience. In this study, we developed a multi-dimensional quantitative integration platform (MDQIP) that uses a model to objectively calculate and rank compound activities, addressing the limitations of traditional "experience-driven" evaluations, accelerates the screening and evaluation of potential AChE inhibitors from Red Gastrodia elata, offering a more efficient approach to drug discovery. Ultrafiltration-LC screening identified parishin A as having the most stable binding, with binding degree and recovery rates of 98.85% and 99.39%, respectively. Molecular docking revealed that parishins A and C were the strongest AChE inhibitors, exhibiting stable binding through hydrogen bonds, π-alkyl, and π-π interactions. Molecular dynamics simulations confirmed the stability of these compounds, with binding energies of -82.65 ± 4.24 and - 80.69 ± 4.19 kcal/mol. Enzyme kinetics showed that parishins A and C are mixed-type inhibitors, with IC Show less
Post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) is a prevalent sequela of stroke that severely limits recovery and quality of life. Accumulating evidence indicates that acupuncture exerts significant neuropro Show more
Post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) is a prevalent sequela of stroke that severely limits recovery and quality of life. Accumulating evidence indicates that acupuncture exerts significant neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing effects in PSCI; however, the underlying mechanisms remain fragmented across molecular, cellular, and systems levels. This review proposes an integrative neurobiological framework linking neurotransmission, neuroinflammation, neurotrophic signaling, and brain network remodeling to explain how acupuncture promotes neurorepair and cognitive restoration after stroke. We systematically summarized recent clinical and experimental findings from 2001 to 2025 and categorized the converging mechanisms into five inter-related dimensions: (1) regulation of neurotransmitters and synaptic plasticity; (2) anti-inflammatory and immune modulation; (3) anti-oxidative stress and anti-apoptotic actions; (4) up-regulation of BDNF-related pathways and neurotrophic signaling; and (5) enhancement of neurogenesis and reconstruction of brain functional networks. Collectively, these multimodal effects form a systems-level cascade through which acupuncture may facilitate neuroplastic remodeling and cognitive recovery. Current challenges include heterogeneity of study design, insufficient multi-omics validation, and limited longitudinal imaging evidence. Future research should integrate molecular biomarkers, neuroimaging, and clinical outcomes to verify this multi-layered mechanistic framework and to guide precision acupuncture protocols for PSCI rehabilitation. Show less
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is frequently complicated by vascular co-morbidities. However, the specific mechanistic pathways by which vascular lesions interact with genetic susceptibility to accelerate c Show more
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is frequently complicated by vascular co-morbidities. However, the specific mechanistic pathways by which vascular lesions interact with genetic susceptibility to accelerate cognitive decline remain unclear. This study investigated whether cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) and cortical microinfarcts mediate the impact of AD pathology on cognition and evaluated the modifying role of APOE genotype. We conducted a retrospective clinico-pathological study using the National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center (NACC) database. The cohort included autopsy-confirmed participants aged 50 and older. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was employed to quantify the pathways linking AD pathology (Thal phase) to CAA severity, microinfarcts, and cognitive performance (CDR-Sum of Boxes). We further assessed the cumulative burden of pathology by comparing "Pure AD" cases against those with a "Triple Hit" of AD, CAA, and microvascular injury. SEM analysis identified a significant statistical mediation pathway wherein parenchymal amyloid is strongly associated with CAA, which correlates with an increased risk of microinfarcts and subsequent cognitive dysfunction. We observed a significant gene-pathology interaction: APOE ε4 carriers demonstrated a steeper trajectory of cognitive decline for a given severity of CAA compared to non-carriers. Furthermore, the "Triple Hit" group exhibited significantly worse cognitive impairment than the "Pure AD" group (P < 0.001), independent of age and education. Vascular pathology is a critical mediator of cognitive failure in AD, particularly in APOE ε4 carriers. The concurrent "Triple Hit" of proteinopathy and vasculopathy is associated with a profound failure of cognitive reserve, likely reflecting a more advanced global disease state. These findings highlight the urgent need to target vascular resilience as a disease-modifying strategy in Alzheimer's disease. Show less
Families with children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often encounter significant challenges, manifesting in elevated stress levels and compromised physical and mental well-being. This Show more
Families with children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often encounter significant challenges, manifesting in elevated stress levels and compromised physical and mental well-being. This study employed Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) to comprehensively examine family resilience attributes among 328 Chinese parents of children with ASD. Drawing on Walsh's family resilience framework and the Double ABCX stress-adaptation model, the research examined how protective factors (social support, posttraumatic growth) and risk factors (family stressors) distinctively characterize resilience profiles and predict profile membership, alongside sociodemographic correlates. Through rigorous statistical analysis, the following three distinct family resilience profiles emerged: adversity (32.31%; characterized by low resilience), ordinary (46.65%; demonstrating moderate resilience) and growth (21.03%; exhibiting high resilience). Critically, the findings revealed that higher family income, perceived social support and posttraumatic growth were associated with higher family resilience, while family stressors were associated with lower family resilience. These insights underscore the importance of developing targeted, personalized intervention strategies that can effectively enhance familial coping mechanisms and psychological adaptation for families navigating the complex challenges of ASD. Show less
Aberrant microglial activation and impaired adult hippocampal neurogenesis play critical roles in the pathogenesis of depression. Although electroacupuncture (EA) has demonstrated clinical antidepress Show more
Aberrant microglial activation and impaired adult hippocampal neurogenesis play critical roles in the pathogenesis of depression. Although electroacupuncture (EA) has demonstrated clinical antidepressant efficacy, the underlying mechanisms by which it modulates microglial activity and promotes neurogenesis remain unclear. Male C57BL/6 J mice were subjected to chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) for three weeks. Following this period, the mice were divided into groups receiving either EA at the Yintang (GV29) and Baihui (GV20) acupoints, imipramine (IMI) as a positive control, or no treatment (vehicle control) for an additional 3 weeks. To evaluate depressive-like behaviors, we conducted the sucrose preference test, forced swimming test, and tail suspension test. Anxiety-like behaviors were assessed using the open field test and elevated plus maze. We employed immunofluorescence, Golgi staining, Western blotting, and real-time quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR) to elucidate the effects of EA on microglia-driven hippocampal neurogenesis and BDNF signaling. Notably, loss-of-function experiments utilizing PLX5622 for microglial ablation and ANA-12 for TrkB blockade demonstrated the necessity of both microglia and BDNF signaling for the therapeutic efficacy of EA. EA treatment significantly alleviated CUMS-induced anxiodepressive behaviors. This behavioral recovery was associated with a phenotypic shift in microglia towards a pro-neurogenic state in the hippocampus. Importantly, microglia were essential for the therapeutic effects of EA, as evidenced by their ablation with PLX5622. Furthermore, EA enhanced neurogenesis by orchestrating a multi-step augmentation of BDNF signaling, which involved PKA activation, subsequent release from MeCP2-mediated transcriptional repression, and ultimately increased maturation of BDNF. Our findings demonstrate that EA exerts antidepressant effects by promoting a pro-neurogenic transformation of microglia. Mechanistically, these microglia enhance BDNF function via the PKA/MeCP2/BDNF pathway, thereby facilitating hippocampal neurogenesis and restoring synaptic plasticity, which collectively alleviate depressive symptoms. Show less
Acute kidney injury (AKI), a critical clinical syndrome marked by high incidence and mortality, is currently diagnosed mainly by serum creatinine (SCr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN), which have high m Show more
Acute kidney injury (AKI), a critical clinical syndrome marked by high incidence and mortality, is currently diagnosed mainly by serum creatinine (SCr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN), which have high miss rates. This study innovatively proposes using urinary hydrogen peroxide (H Show less
Postmenopausal metabolic syndrome and its associated liver injury have attracted considerable research interest, yet their underlying mechanisms and treatment strategies remain insufficiently elucidat Show more
Postmenopausal metabolic syndrome and its associated liver injury have attracted considerable research interest, yet their underlying mechanisms and treatment strategies remain insufficiently elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between aberrant lipid metabolism and hepatic injury in ovariectomized (OVX) females and to evaluate the therapeutic potential of ingenol (Ing), a natural diterpenoid, via the SIRT1-LXRα signaling pathway. Data from 3047 females in NHANES (2017-2020) were analyzed to compare serum triglyceride (TG) and liver injury markers between OVX and non-OVX women. An OVX mouse model was established to examine hepatic lipid metabolism and SIRT1 expression. Molecular docking, dual luciferase assays, and SIRT1 silencing were performed to evaluate Ing-SIRT1 binding and regulation. HepG2 cells were used to assess Ing's effects on lipid levels and expression of LXRα, CYP39A1, CPT1, and ACOX1. In vivo studies in OVX mice confirmed the therapeutic effects of Ing and further investigated its mechanism via the SIRT1-LXRα pathway. NHANES data indicated that OVX women had significantly higher serum TG levels and more severe liver injury. OVX mice exhibited downregulated SIRT1 expression and disrupted lipid homeostasis. Ing showed high binding affinity to SIRT1, outperforming several known agonists. In HepG2 cells, Ing reduced intracellular TG and total cholesterol (TC), while upregulating LXRα, CYP39A1, CPT1, and ACOX1. In OVX mice, Ing treatment notably attenuated weight gain, reduced TG and TC levels, and ameliorated liver histopathological damage. These effects were mediated through the SIRT1-LXRα pathway. Ing effectively mitigates OVX-induced liver injury by activating SIRT1 and modulating downstream LXRα-mediated lipid metabolic pathways. These results support Ing as a promising therapeutic candidate for liver injury in postmenopausal or OVX women. Show less
High-density lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) is a well-established independent risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVD). However, the interaction between Lp(a), low-density lipoprotein c Show more
High-density lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) is a well-established independent risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVD). However, the interaction between Lp(a), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and polygenic risk score (PRS) in cardiovascular diseases has been the subject of relatively limited research. The present study included a total of 346,751 participants from the UK Biobank. According to the guideline of Lp(a), the study subjects were divided into 3 groups: the first group was <75 mmol/L (n = 272,643), the second group was 75 to 125 mmol/L (n = 35,792), and the third group was >125 mmol/L (n = 38,316). Elevated Lp(a) levels were associated with a progressively increased risk of overall cardiovascular events (CVEs), including ischemic stroke (IS), coronary heart disease (CHD), angina pectoris, and myocardial infarction (MI). In contrast, the risks of atrial fibrillation (AF) and heart failure (HF) decreased with higher Lp(a) levels. Additive interaction analyses revealed significant synergistic effects between Lp(a) and LDL-C for CHD (relative excess risk interaction [RERI] = 0.081, attributable proportion of interaction [AP] = 0.046, synergy index [SI] = 1.117), angina pectoris (RERI = 0.112, AP = 0.055, SI = 1.121), and MI (RERI = 0.183, AP = 0.079, SI = 1.161), with MI showing the strongest synergy. Incorporating PRS further amplified these effects, and the RERI (CHD: RERI = 0.721; angina pectoris: RERI = 0.781; MI: RERI = 1.318) and SI (CHD: SI = 2.218; angina pectoris: SI = 1.97; MI: SI = 2.326) were significantly higher than those of the interaction model containing only Lp(a) and LDL-C. In conclusion, Lp(a) and LDL-C show a significant synergistic effect in ASCVD, and this effect is more prominent in individuals with a higher PRS, suggesting that dual lipid management should be strengthened for such populations. While AF and HF may require alternative risk factor management. Show less
Aortic aneurysm (AA) is a life-threatening vascular disease with high fatality upon rupture. While physical activity (PA) reduces cardiovascular risk, its role in AA prevention remains uncertain, part Show more
Aortic aneurysm (AA) is a life-threatening vascular disease with high fatality upon rupture. While physical activity (PA) reduces cardiovascular risk, its role in AA prevention remains uncertain, particularly when assessed objectively. We analyzed 93,165 UK Biobank participants (56% women; median age 57 years) with valid 7-day wrist-worn accelerometer data. PA was categorized as light (LPA), moderate (MPA), vigorous (VPA), and moderate-to-vigorous (MVPA). Diagnosed AA was ascertained through linked hospital, death, and primary care records. Cox models estimated hazard ratios (HRs) for AA across quartiles and per-standard deviation (SD) increments, with adjustment for demographic, lifestyle, and cardiometabolic factors. Over a median 7.9-year follow-up, 499 clinically recorded AA cases occurred. Higher accelerometer-measured PA was inversely associated with AA risk. Per-SD increments in total PA, MPA, VPA, and MVPA corresponded to 17%, 22%, 19%, and 23% lower risks, respectively. Compared with the lowest quartile, the highest MVPA quartile had a 44% lower AA risk (HR = 0.56, 95% CI 0.42-0.76). Subtype analyses revealed stronger protective effects for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) than thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA), while LPA was not significantly associated. These findings demonstrate that higher levels of accelerometer-measured MVPA are robustly associated with a decreased risk of clinically detected AA in a dose-dependent manner. The associations were particularly pronounced for AAA. This study provides objective evidence supporting the potential benefits of MVPA for aortic health. Show less
Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) have been associated with cognitive function, with conflicting evidence suggesting both potential benefits and risks in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’ Show more
Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) have been associated with cognitive function, with conflicting evidence suggesting both potential benefits and risks in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI), highlighting the need for further investigation. This study aimed to explore the relationship between total BCAAs, cognitive function, and brain structure, specifically examining hippocampal volumes and their potential mediating effects in individuals with AD, MCI, and cognitively normal (CN) individuals. Cognitive function was assessed using the CDR-SB scale, total BCAAs were measured in serum through NMR metabolomics, and hippocampal volumes were evaluated using voxel-based morphometry (VBM). This study found that elevated total BCAAs were initially associated with increased hippocampal volumes in MCI, though this relationship became non-significant after adjusting for confounding factors such as age, gender, education, and ApoE ɛ4 status. Increased hippocampal volumes, however, remained consistently linked to better cognitive function in both MCI and AD, regardless of adjustments. Importantly, mediation analysis revealed indirect effects of elevated total BCAAs on improved cognitive function via increased hippocampal volumes, with being significant only in MCI before controlling for confounders; however, this mediation relationship disappeared after adjusting for age, gender, education, and ApoE ɛ4 status. These findings suggested that BCAAs may be associated indirectly with improved cognitive function, with increased hippocampal volume acting as a key mediator, particularly in MCI. However, the effects of BCAAs were sensitive to confounding factors such as age, gender, education, and APOE-ɛ4 status, which we accounted for in our analyses; however, other unmeasured factors such as dietary intake may also affect the observed associations, underscoring the importance of considering these variables in future studies. Show less
To retrospectively analyze the effects of Butylphthalide and Sodium Chloride Injection (BP-SC) combined with Argatroban (AG) on neurological deficits and hemorheology in progressive ischemic stroke (P Show more
To retrospectively analyze the effects of Butylphthalide and Sodium Chloride Injection (BP-SC) combined with Argatroban (AG) on neurological deficits and hemorheology in progressive ischemic stroke (PIS) patients. A total of 123 PIS patients admitted to our hospital between April 2023 and April 2025 were retrospectively analyzed and divided into two groups according to the different treatment schemes: the control group (n=58; treated with AG) and the research group (n=65; treated with BP-SC and AG). Clinical efficacy, neurological deficits (assessed by the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale [NIHSS]), neurological function (astrocyte-derived protein S100β, brain-derived neurotrophic factor [BDNF], and neuron-specific enolase [NSE]), hemorheology (fibrinogen [FIB], plasma viscosity [PV], whole blood low-shear viscosity [WBLSV]), vascular endothelial function (endothelin-1 [ET-1] and nitric oxide [NO]), inflammatory factors (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein [hs-CRP], interleukin-6 [IL-6], and tumor necrosis factor-α [TNF-α]), adverse events (gingival bleeding, subcutaneous ecchymosis, nausea, abdominal distension, and vomiting), the 90-day post-operative modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score were compared between the two groups. Compared with the control group, the research group demonstrated significantly higher overall effective rate and favorable prognosis rate. The research group also showed greater post-treatment reductions in the NIHSS score and levels of S100-β and NSE, along with a more pronounced elevation in BDNF level, indicating improved neuronal function. Additionally, the combined treatment significantly improved multiple hemorheological indices and endothelial function as evidenced by reduced ET-1 level and elevated NO level. Moreover, levels of hs-CRP, IL-6, and TNF-α were significantly decreased. However, the total incidence of adverse events was comparable between the two groups. Combined treatment with BP-SC and AG exerts more significant improvements in neurological deficits and hemorheological parameters in PIS patients. 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
Compound Nujia honey paste (Nujia), a classic formulation from Traditional Uyghur Medicine, has been historically used for depression treatment and is listed in the Catalog of Ancient Classical Famous Show more
Compound Nujia honey paste (Nujia), a classic formulation from Traditional Uyghur Medicine, has been historically used for depression treatment and is listed in the Catalog of Ancient Classical Famous Formulas issued by the National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine and the National Medical Products Administration. Clarifying its pharmacodynamic material basis is essential for understanding its efficacy, yet this remains incompletely characterized. This study aimed to systematically elucidate Nujia's antidepressant efficacy and mechanisms by combining chemical analysis, computational prediction, and experimental validation in a CUMS rat model, providing a comprehensive approach to understanding its action. This study employed LC/MS to analyze the chemical constituents and blood-absorbed compounds of Nujia. This was combined with network pharmacology and molecular docking to predict and verify its potential antidepressant targets and signaling pathways. Using behavioral tests, ELISA, histopathology, Western blot, and qRT-PCR in a CUMS rat model, the research thoroughly evaluated Nujia's therapeutic effects and mechanisms, fostering trust in the findings. In this study, LC/MS analysis identified 124 chemical constituents from Nujia, and further analysis determined 26 blood-absorbed compounds (including 10 prototype compounds). Network pharmacology analysis revealed that its potential antidepressant effects are closely associated with core targets such as AKT1 and TNF, a prediction subsequently verified by molecular docking results. In the CUMS-induced rat model of depression, intervention with Nujia significantly ameliorated depression-like behaviors in the animals and alleviated neuropathological damage in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. Mechanistic investigations revealed that Nujia upregulated the levels of monoamine neurotransmitters (5-HT, DA, NE) and neurotrophic factors (BDNF, NGF) in serum, while downregulating the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-18). Further molecular experiments confirmed that Nujia likely mitigates neuroinflammation by inhibiting the TNF-α/NF-κB signaling pathway, and inhibits neuronal apoptosis by activating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and its downstream anti-apoptotic proteins. Furthermore, Nujia significantly upregulated the expression of key synaptic plasticity proteins (SYP, GAP43, and PSD95) in hippocampal tissue, thereby enhancing synaptic structure and function. These findings underscore the complex, multi-target mechanisms underlying Nujia's antidepressant effects, encouraging further exploration of its therapeutic potential. This study systematically elucidates that Nujia achieves its antidepressant therapeutic effects by mediating multi-pathway synergistic actions, including but not limited to the TNF-α/NF-κB and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways, to ameliorate neuroinflammation, attenuate apoptosis, and enhance synaptic plasticity. Show less
Sepsis triggered by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a life-threatening condition. Inspired by the specific capture mechanism of innate proteins like LBP and CD14, we develop oxidized chitosan microspheres Show more
Sepsis triggered by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a life-threatening condition. Inspired by the specific capture mechanism of innate proteins like LBP and CD14, we develop oxidized chitosan microspheres functionalized with hyperbranched polylysine (OCS-HBPL) as a sepsis detoxification agent. Isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) reveals that HBPL-LPS binding is an enthalpy-driven process, distinct from the entropy-driven interaction of linear polylysine (LPL)-LPS. Validated by surface plasmon resonance (SPR), HBPL demonstrates superior affinity with a dissociation constant (K 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
Resveratrol (RSV), a dietary polyphenol widely present in traditional medicinal plants and foods, exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that are relevant to ethnopharmacological strate Show more
Resveratrol (RSV), a dietary polyphenol widely present in traditional medicinal plants and foods, exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that are relevant to ethnopharmacological strategies for protecting against environmental neurotoxicants. Given increasing real-world co-exposure to lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd), elucidating RSV's capacity to preserve gut-brain axis (GBA) homeostasis has direct translational relevance for populations relying on phytochemical interventions. Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into control, Pb-Cd model, and RSV treatment groups (10, 20, or 40 mg/kg). For 4 weeks, rats received Pb (300 mg/L) and Cd (50 mg/L) in drinking water with daily RSV. Cognitive function was assessed by Morris water maze; barrier integrity by Evans blue assay, histology, and Western blot for ZO-1/Occludin; synaptic ultrastructure by TEM; microbiota composition by 16S rRNA sequencing; and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) by GC-MS. Neurotransmitters (5-HT, GABA, SP, VIP) and cytokines (IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α) were measured by ELISA. RSV improved spatial learning, reduced EB extravasation, preserved synaptic ultrastructure and proteins (BDNF, SYN, PSD-95), and restored intestinal architecture with increased ZO-1/Occludin. RSV attenuated cytokine release, normalized goblet cells, reversed dysbiosis by restoring Lactobacillaceae/Prevotellaceae, and increased acetate, propionate, and butyrate. It reinstated 5-HT and GABA while reducing SP and restoring VIP across serum, colon, and hippocampus. RSV attenuated Pb-Cd-associated neurotoxicity and was accompanied by improved intestinal and BBB-related readouts, partial normalization of gut microbiota features and SCFA levels, and preservation of synaptic and neurotransmitter-related markers, consistent with a link to gut-brain axis function. This study is among the first to test RSV in a Pb-Cd co-exposure model using a multi-dose regimen with integrated behavioral, barrier, microbial, and neurochemical endpoints. Show less
Excessive fat deposition compromises the health of companion animals and the carcass quality of food-producing livestock. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) has been demonstrated to play a critical re Show more
Excessive fat deposition compromises the health of companion animals and the carcass quality of food-producing livestock. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) has been demonstrated to play a critical regulatory role in fat deposition, with its function dependent on binding to its cognate receptor (FSHR) in target organs. In this study, female Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were immunized with subunit vaccines targeting FSHβ and FSHR, respectively, and obesity was induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) to investigate the effects of these vaccines on adipose deposition in female mammals. The results revealed that active immunization against FSHβ and FSHR effectively suppressed HFD-induced obesity and the elevated serum triglyceride levels. Histological observations found that FSHβ and FSHR immunity decreased adipocyte hypertrophy and increased the cross-sectional area of skeletal muscle fibers caused by HFD, partially ameliorated HFD-associated hepatic sinusoidal spaces and vacuolated steatosis in the cytoplasm. RT-qPCR results indicated that FSHβ and FSHR immunization inhibited lipid synthesis by downregulating adipogenic-related genes, including C/ebpα, Creb, Pparγ, Lpl, and Perilipin. These findings suggest that both vaccines can mitigate HFD-induced adipose deposition in rats, with the FSHR vaccine exhibiting more pronounced effects. This study provides a novel strategy to mitigate pet health deterioration caused by excessive obesity and the decline in carcass quality of food-producing livestock. Show less
Caloric restriction (CR) improves metabolic health and reduces the risk of aging-related vascular diseases. However, the systematic metabolic reprogramming associated with CR remains unclear. To addre Show more
Caloric restriction (CR) improves metabolic health and reduces the risk of aging-related vascular diseases. However, the systematic metabolic reprogramming associated with CR remains unclear. To address this, we performed multi-tissue metabolomic profiling (liver, heart, and serum) in apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE-/-) mice subjected to CR. Metabolomic analyses of the multiple tissues revealed that glycerophospholipid metabolism pathway was consistently modulated by CR. To explore its relevance in vascular diseases, we performed serum metabolomic profiling in an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) model induced by angiotensin Ⅱ (AngⅡ) infusion in ApoE-/- mice. The level of lysophosphatidylethanolamine (LPE) (16:0/0:0), a metabolite in the glycerophospholipid metabolism pathway, was elevated during AAA progression and significantly reduced by CR intervention, suggesting its potential as a vascular disease risk factor. Notably, glycerophospholipid metabolism and LPE (16:0) were significantly associated with vascular diseases and aging-related indicators in human multi-omics data, including public transcriptomic and lipidomic, and our serum multi-omics profiling of 76 healthy aged individuals. Collectively, our findings establish glycerophospholipid metabolism and LPE (16:0) as systemic signatures of CR with diagnostic potential. They highlight a crucial link between systemic metabolism and vascular remodeling and remodeling-associated vascular diseases, while also functioning as indicators of systemic aging. Show less
The trend of global population aging is closely associated with a rising incidence of neurodegenerative diseases (NDs), including stroke, Alzheimer disease, Parkinson disease, and depression. These co Show more
The trend of global population aging is closely associated with a rising incidence of neurodegenerative diseases (NDs), including stroke, Alzheimer disease, Parkinson disease, and depression. These conditions, characterized by progressive neuronal loss, currently pose a significant challenge due to the lack of curative therapies. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) serves as a critical regulator of synaptic plasticity, a fundamental mechanism believed to underpin essential cognitive and motor functions such as learning, memory formation, and recovery. Decreased BDNF and deficits in BDNF signaling leads to the pathogenesis of NDs. Numerous studies support the therapeutic potential of acupuncture in managing NDs. Its beneficial effects are largely attributed to the ability to elevate BDNF expression and potentiate associated neurotrophic signaling. Beyond direct BDNF modulation, acupuncture exerts regulatory effects on specific micro-RNAs (miRNAs). This includes miRNAs that directly target BDNF transcripts for posttranscriptional control, as well as others that independently influence molecules critical for maintaining synaptic plasticity. The binding of acupuncture-elevated BDNF to its high-affinity receptor, Tropomyosin-related kinase B (Trk-B), initiates the activation of key downstream signaling cascades, including phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT), mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-related kinase (MAPK/ERK) and phospholipase C-γ (PLCγ) pathways which are involved in synaptic plasticity, survival, proliferation and differentiation of neurons. In this review, we present the effects of acupuncture on BDNF, miRNAs and the downstream signal transduction pathways of BDNF in NDs and the review may partly elucidate the biological molecular mechanisms of acupuncture in the therapy of NDs. Show less
Silica exposure precipitates irreversible lung injury; however, its long-term neurological sequelae—and the microglial mechanisms underlying these effects—remain poorly understood. Here, we demonstrat Show more
Silica exposure precipitates irreversible lung injury; however, its long-term neurological sequelae—and the microglial mechanisms underlying these effects—remain poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that inhaled crystalline silica induces persistent hippocampal inflammation, anxiety- and depression-like behaviors, and neuronal loss in mice. Bulk RNA sequencing, immunophenotyping, and pharmacological depletion studies revealed that microglia are the primary source of complement C1q in silica-exposed brains. Mechanistically, silica-induced lipocalin-2 (LCN2) engages the melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) on microglia, activating a cAMP/PKA/NF-κB cascade that transcriptionally upregulates C1q. Pharmacological blockade of MC4R (using PF) abolished C1q overproduction, normalized brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels, and restored both synaptic integrity and behavioral performance. Our findings establish the LCN2–MC4R–C1q axis as a critical microglial pathway in silica-related neurotoxicity and identify MC4R antagonism as a promising, readily translatable intervention for occupational neuroinflammation. The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12974-026-03695-5. Show less
Autophagy supports clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) progression, yet its upstream regulatory mechanisms remain to be fully defined. Integrating bulk, single-cell, and spatial transcriptomics, w Show more
Autophagy supports clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) progression, yet its upstream regulatory mechanisms remain to be fully defined. Integrating bulk, single-cell, and spatial transcriptomics, we identify a regulatory axis wherein the transcription factor ZBED6 activates the expression of the autophagy-initiating kinase PIK3C3 via the repression of IGF2, thereby driving pro-tumorigenic autophagy. Spatial analysis confirms the co-localization of ZBED6 and PIK3C3 in tumor tissues. Using genes associated with this axis, we develop a six-gene prognostic signature that stratifies patients with distinct survival outcomes and differential responses to immunotherapy and targeted therapy. Functional assays show that ZBED6 promotes ccRCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. This work elucidates a pathway governing autophagy in ccRCC and provides a framework for prognostic assessment and precision therapy. Show less
Schizophrenia primarily depends on pharmacotherapy, which has demonstrated limited efficacy in enhancing cognitive impairments. High-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS) and co Show more
Schizophrenia primarily depends on pharmacotherapy, which has demonstrated limited efficacy in enhancing cognitive impairments. High-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS) and computerized cognitive remediation therapy (CCRT) hold potential for improving cognitive impairments. This study aims to investigate the effects of combining HD-tDCS with CCRT on cognition and to explore the mechanisms of this approach in schizophrenia. This is the protocol of a randomized controlled trial. Schizophrenia patients will be randomly assigned to one of 4 groups: HD-tDCS + CCRT group (Group 1), HD-tDCS group (Group 2), CCRT group (Group 3), and a control group (Group 4). The central electrode will be personalized using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-guided localization in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). CCRT includes 6 therapeutic modules and 10 distinct tasks. Both HD-tDCS and CCRT will be administered once daily, 5 days per week, for 4 consecutive weeks, culminating in a total of 20 sessions. Assessments will occur at baseline (T0), after 10 sessions (T1), after 20 sessions (T2), and after 6 months of follow-up (T3). The primary outcome measure is the change in cognition. We will employ multimodal MRI, serum concentrations of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) to explore the underlying mechanisms. An involvement of mPFC and synaptic plasticity in response to HD-tDCS and CCRT is hypothesized. The study will provide empirical evidence for the effectiveness of combined therapy at an individual level, explore its mechanisms, and may ultimately result in personalized medicine. ChiCTR2500102731, https://www.chictr.org.cn/hvshowprojectEN.html?id=276964&v=1.0. Show less
Phytate (phytic acid, or InsP6), the primary phosphorus storage compound in plants, plays essential roles in nutrient homeostasis and cellular signaling. However, its strong metal-chelating properties Show more
Phytate (phytic acid, or InsP6), the primary phosphorus storage compound in plants, plays essential roles in nutrient homeostasis and cellular signaling. However, its strong metal-chelating properties make cytosolic accumulation cytotoxic, necessitating its sequestration into vacuoles for safe storage. Here, we present the cryo-EM structures of the rice vacuolar phytate transporter, OsMRP5, captured in distinct functional states. These structures reveal the molecular basis of OsMRP5 function as an ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter. OsMRP5 employs a specialized substrate-recognition mechanism, uniquely adapted to bind the fully hydrophilic InsP6 through extensive electrostatic and hydrogen-bonding interactions within two distinct, highly polar binding sites in its central cavity. A distinctive electropositive tunnel, positioned above the central cavity, forms a continuous pathway connecting the InsP6-binding pocket to the vacuolar export site. This tunnel likely generates an electrostatic attraction that facilitates the movement of the highly anionic InsP6 through the transporter. By mapping mutations from low-phytic acid (lpa) crop variants onto the OsMRP5 structures, we pinpoint their conserved locations critical for transporter function and validate their impact experimentally. These results reveal how OsMRP5 recognizes and transports the highly charged InsP6 molecules into vacuoles, providing a molecular framework for targeted manipulation of this agriculturally important transporter. Show less
Controversies exist regarding the effects of calcium supplementation on lipid metabolism, and the time-specific effects and underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study aims to elucidate the diffe Show more
Controversies exist regarding the effects of calcium supplementation on lipid metabolism, and the time-specific effects and underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study aims to elucidate the differential impacts of calcium intervention at different times (morning/evening) on hepatic lipid metabolism and the molecular mechanisms involved. Forty female CD-1 (ICR) mice were randomly divided into four groups: Morning Control Group (MCN), Morning Calcium Intervention Group (MCI, intragastric administration of calcium carbonate at 08:00), Evening Control Group (ECN), and Evening Calcium Intervention Group (ECI, intragastric administration of calcium carbonate at 20:00). Mice were fed a normal calcium or low-calcium diet for 10 wk. Morning calcium intervention (MCI) in mice significantly increased serum and hepatic total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels, and induced lipid droplet deposition and swelling in hepatocytes. Transcriptome and validation experiments showed upregulated hepatic PER1 expression in the MCI group, while PPARα and its downstream lipid metabolism genes (CPT1A, APOA5) were downregulated. In HepG2 cells, nighttime calcium incubation (NC) significantly increased intracellular TG and LDL contents, upregulated PER1 expression, and inhibited PPARα, CPT1A, and APOA5 expressions. Knocking down PER1 reversed the abnormal gene expression and lipid-elevating effects in the NC group. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that the circadian timing of calcium intake critically regulates hepatic lipid homeostasis Show less