This study aimed to explore the effect of miR-23b-3p on the differentiation of goat intramuscular preadipocytes, and to confirm whether miR-23b-3p plays its roles
Baitouweng decoction (BTW) has been used for hundreds of years to treat ulcerative colitis (UC) in China and has produced remarkable clinical results. However, the knowledge in protective mechanism of Show more
Baitouweng decoction (BTW) has been used for hundreds of years to treat ulcerative colitis (UC) in China and has produced remarkable clinical results. However, the knowledge in protective mechanism of BTW against UC is still unclear. The present study was designed to investigate the anti-UC effects of BTW and the underlying mechanisms involved. 3.5% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced experimental colitis was used to simulate human UC and the mice were treated with BTW (6.83 g/kg), leucine (200 mg/kg, Leu) or rapamycin (2 mg/kg, RAPA) as a positive control for 7 days. The clinical symptoms, serum myeloperoxidase (MPO) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were evaluated. Biological samples were collected to detect the effects of BTW on mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) pathway and Leu metabolism. In our study, BTW notably improved the clinical symptoms and histopathological tissue damage and reduced the release of proinflammatory cytokines, including IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α in UC mice. BTW also alleviated oxidative stress by decreasing serum MPO and MDA levels. Additionally, BTW significantly suppressed mTORC1 activity in the colon tissues of UC mice. Serum metabolomics analysis revealed that the mice receiving BTW had lower Leu levels, which was in line with the decreased expression of branched-chain α-keto acid dehydrogenase kinase (BCKDK) in the colon tissues. Furthermore, oral administration of Leu aggravated DSS-induced acute colitis and enhanced mTORC1 activity in the colon. These data strongly demonstrated that BTW could ameliorate DSS-induced UC by regulating the Leu-related mTORC1 pathway and reducing oxidative stress. Show less
Excessive and chronic inflammation post myocardial infarction (MI) causes cardiac fibrosis and progressive ventricular remodeling, which leads to heart failure. We previously found high levels of IL-2 Show more
Excessive and chronic inflammation post myocardial infarction (MI) causes cardiac fibrosis and progressive ventricular remodeling, which leads to heart failure. We previously found high levels of IL-27 in the heart and serum until day 14 in murine cardiac ischemia‒reperfusion injury models. However, whether IL-27 is involved in chronic inflammation-mediated ventricular remodeling remains unclear. In the present study, we found that MI triggered high IL-27 expression in murine cardiac macrophages. The increased expression of IL-27 in serum is correlated with cardiac dysfunction and aggravated fibrosis after MI. Furthermore, the addition of IL-27 significantly activated the JAK/STAT signaling pathway in cardiac fibroblasts (CFs). Meanwhile, IL-27 treatment promoted the proliferation, migration and extracellular matrix (ECM) production of CFs induced by angiotensin II (Ang II). Collectively, high levels of IL-27 mainly produced by cardiac macrophages post MI contribute to the activation of CFs and aggravate cardiac fibrosis. Show less
Emmetropization, a natural process of ocular elongation, is closely associated with scleral remodeling. The Fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) was reported involved in scleral remodeling in myopia mod Show more
Emmetropization, a natural process of ocular elongation, is closely associated with scleral remodeling. The Fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) was reported involved in scleral remodeling in myopia models. Herein, we aimed to investigate the role of scleral fibroblast-to-myofibroblast differentiation and FGF-2 in scleral remodeling during maturation. Our findings revealed that the posterior scleral fibroblasts (SFs) from mature guinea pigs exhibit increased stiffness compared to those from young guinea pigs. Moreover, mature SFs displayed decreased cell proliferation but increased levels of α-SMA, matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2), and collagen 1, when compared to young SFs. Additionally, the mRNA expression of scleral Fgf-2, Fgf receptor 1 (Fgfr1), Fgfr2, Fgfr3, and Fgfr4 was increased in mature SFs. Notably, exogenous FGF-2 showed increased cell proliferation and led to decreased expression of α-SMA, MMP2, and collagen 1 in mature SFs. Overall, our findings highlight the influence of maturation on SFs from posterior scleral shells, resulting in increased stiffness and the manifestation of fibroblast-to-myofibroblast differentiation during development. Exogenous FGF-2 increased cell proliferation and reversed the age-related fibroblast-to-myofibroblast differentiation, suggesting a potential role of FGF-2 in regulating scleral remodeling. Show less
Primary Sjogren's Syndrome (pSS) is a chronic autoimmune disease, with unclear pathogenies. Lysine-malonylation (Kmal) as a novel post-translational modification (PTMs) was found associated with metab Show more
Primary Sjogren's Syndrome (pSS) is a chronic autoimmune disease, with unclear pathogenies. Lysine-malonylation (Kmal) as a novel post-translational modification (PTMs) was found associated with metabolic, immune, and inflammatory processes. For purpose of investigating the proteomic profile and functions of kmal in pSS, liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)-based analysis and bioinformatics analysis are performed based on twenty-eight pSS patients versus twenty-seven healthy controls (HCs). A total of 331 down-regulated proteins and 289 up-regulated proteins are observed in differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) of pSS. We discover the expression of transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGFB1) and CD40 ligand downregulate which enriches in the inflammatory associated pathway. Expression of signal transducer and activator of transcription 1-alpha/beta (STAT1) show upregulation and enrich in type I interferon signaling pathway and IL-27-mediated signaling pathway. In differentially malonylated proteins (DMPs) of pSS, we identify 3 proteins are down-regulated in 7 sites and 18 proteins are up-regulated in 19 sites. Expression of malonylated integrin-linked kinase (ILK) significantly enrich in the focal adhesion pathway. Together, our data provide evidence that downregulation of TGFB1 and CD40LG play a critical role in the inflammatory process of pSS, while upregulation of STAT1 may be associated with IL-27 immunity and pSS immune dysfunction. Moreover, kmal modification at the kinase domain of ILK may destabilize ILK that thus contributing to pSS pathogenies by regulating the focal adhesion pathway. SIGNIFICANCE: Our research offered the first characterization of Kmal, a newly identified form of lysine acylation in pSS, as well as proteomic data on individuals with pSS. In this study, we found that several key DMPs were associated with focal adhesion pathway, which contributes to the development of pSS. The present results provide an informative dataset for the future exploration of Kmal in pSS. Show less
lipopolysaccharide (LPS) can induce nephrotic syndrome-like features such as massive proteinuria, hyperlipidemia, and fusion of glomerular podocytes with foot processes (FPs) in mice. Angiopoietin-lik Show more
lipopolysaccharide (LPS) can induce nephrotic syndrome-like features such as massive proteinuria, hyperlipidemia, and fusion of glomerular podocytes with foot processes (FPs) in mice. Angiopoietin-like protein 4 (ANGPTL4) neutralized the negative charge of glomerular basement membrane charge and aggravated renal injury. The mechanism of ANGPTL4 aggravating podocyte injury has not been well clarified. In this study, we aimed to investigate the potential role of ANGPTL4 on podocyte FPs fusion and podocyte signal molecules. We built angptl4 gene knocked out in C57BL6 mice using CRISPR/Cas9 technique. Nephrotic model was built by LPS in wild type and angptl4-/- mice. Expression of ACTN4, podocin and TRPC6 in the glomerulus were determined by immunohistochemistry. In physical condition, the wild type and angptl4-/- mice showed no significant differences in biochemical indicators and kidney pathology. But in nephrotic condition, compared with wild type mice hyperlipidemia and proteinuria with the angptl4-/- mice was significantly relieved. Moreover, the degree of FPs fusion was notably improved in the nephrotic mice knocked out angptl4 gene. Expression of ACTN4 and podocin decreased drastically in the glomerulus of wild-type nephrotic mice. Different from wild-type, the ACTN4 and podocin expression showed slight weakening in angptl4-/- nephrotic mice. As transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily member, TRPC6 expression had no visible change in glomerulus of each group. ANGPTL4 induces hyperlipidemia and podocyte injury in nephrotic mice, thereby promoting the formation of proteinuria. Its molecular mechanism may be related to ANGPTL4 down-regulating actin cytoskeletal regulatory signals ACTN4 and podocin. Show less
Temporal oscillations in intestinal nutrient processing and absorption are coordinated by the local clock, which leads to the hypothesis that the intestinal clock has major impacts on shaping peripher Show more
Temporal oscillations in intestinal nutrient processing and absorption are coordinated by the local clock, which leads to the hypothesis that the intestinal clock has major impacts on shaping peripheral rhythms via diurnal nutritional signals. Here, we investigate the role of the intestinal clock in controlling liver rhythmicity and metabolism. Transcriptomic analysis, metabolomics, metabolic assays, histology, quantitative (q)PCR, and immunoblotting were performed with Bmal1-intestine-specific knockout (iKO), Rev-erba-iKO, and control mice. Bmal1 iKO caused large-scale reprogramming of the rhythmic transcriptome of mouse liver with a limited effect on its clock. In the absence of intestinal Bmal1, the liver clock was resistant to entrainment by inverted feeding and a high-fat diet. Importantly, Bmal1 iKO remodelled diurnal hepatic metabolism by shifting to gluconeogenesis from lipogenesis during the dark phase, leading to elevated glucose production (hyperglycaemia) and insulin insensitivity. Conversely, Rev-erba iKO caused a diversion to lipogenesis from gluconeogenesis during the light phase, resulting in enhanced lipogenesis and an increased susceptibility to alcohol-related liver injury. These temporal diversions were attributed to disruption of hepatic SREBP-1c rhythmicity, which was maintained via gut-derived polyunsaturated fatty acids produced by intestinal FADS1/2 under the control of a local clock. Our findings establish a pivotal role for the intestinal clock in dictating liver rhythmicity and diurnal metabolism, and suggest targeting intestinal rhythms as a new avenue for improving metabolic health. Our findings establish the centrality of the intestinal clock among peripheral tissue clocks, and associate liver-related pathologies with its malfunction. Clock modifiers in the intestine are shown to modulate liver metabolism with improved metabolic parameters. Such knowledge will help clinicians improve the diagnosis and treatment of metabolic diseases by incorporating intestinal circadian factors. Show less
To assess the causal role of lipid traits and lipid-lowering agents in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Univariable mendelian randomization (MR) and multivariable MR (MVMR) analyses were conducted to Show more
To assess the causal role of lipid traits and lipid-lowering agents in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Univariable mendelian randomization (MR) and multivariable MR (MVMR) analyses were conducted to evaluate the causal association between low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and IBD. Drug-targeted MR analyzed the effects of lipid-lowering drugs on IBD, and network MR was used to analyze potential mediation effects. The levels of HDL-C had an inverse relationship with the risk of Crohn's disease (CD, OR: 0.85, 95% CI: 0.73-0.98, Our study suggested a causal association between HDL-C and IBD, UC and CD. Genetically proxied inhibition of Show less
Deyu Li, Yingchao Hu, Xin Liu+1 more · 2023 · Zhejiang da xue xue bao. Yi xue ban = Journal of Zhejiang University. Medical sciences · added 2026-04-24
To explore the mechanism of The active ingredients and targets of Through network pharmacology, 15 potential active ingredients and 103 drug-disease targets were identified. PPI analysis showed that t Show more
To explore the mechanism of The active ingredients and targets of Through network pharmacology, 15 potential active ingredients and 103 drug-disease targets were identified. PPI analysis showed that the Show less
Lipoprotein lipase (LPL) is an important enzyme in lipid metabolism, individuals with Renal biopsy was conducted to confirm the etiological factor of nephrotic syndrome in a 44-year-old Chinese man. L Show more
Lipoprotein lipase (LPL) is an important enzyme in lipid metabolism, individuals with Renal biopsy was conducted to confirm the etiological factor of nephrotic syndrome in a 44-year-old Chinese man. Lipoprotein electrophoresis, Renal biopsy revealed numerous CD68 positive foam cells infiltrated in the glomeruli; immunoglobulin and complement staining were negative; and electron microscopy revealed numerous lipid droplets and cholesterol clefts in the cytoplasm of foam cells. Lipoprotein electrophoresis revealed that the patient fulfilled the diagnostic criteria of type I hyperlipoproteinemia. The apoE genotype of the patient was the ε3/ε3 genotype. Whole-exome sequencing revealed an Show less
Cecal microbiota plays an essential role in chicken health. However, its contribution to fat metabolism, particularly in abdominal fat deposition, which is a severe problem in the poultry industry, is Show more
Cecal microbiota plays an essential role in chicken health. However, its contribution to fat metabolism, particularly in abdominal fat deposition, which is a severe problem in the poultry industry, is still unclear. Here, chickens at 1, 4, and 12 months of age with significantly (p < 0.05) higher and lower abdominal fat deposition were selected to elucidate fat metabolism. A significantly (p < 0.05) higher mRNA expression of fat anabolism genes (ACSL1, FADS1, CYP2C45, ACC, and FAS), a significantly (p < 0.05) lower mRNA expression of fat catabolism genes (CPT-1 and PPARα) and fat transport gene APOAI in liver/abdominal fat of high abdominal fat deposition chickens indicated that an unbalanced fat metabolism leads to excessive abdominal fat deposition. Parabacteroides, Parasutterella, Oscillibacter, and Anaerofustis were found significantly (p < 0.05) higher in high abdominal fat deposition chickens, while Sphaerochaeta was higher in low abdominal fat deposition chickens. Further, Spearman correlation analysis indicated that the relative abundance of cecal Parabacteroides, Parasutterella, Oscillibacter, and Anaerofustis was positively correlated with abdominal fat deposition, yet cecal Sphaerochaeta was negatively correlated with fat deposition. Interestingly, transferring fecal microbiota from adult chickens with low abdominal fat deposition into one-day-old chicks significantly (p < 0.05) decreased Parabacteroides and fat anabolism genes, while markedly increased Sphaerochaeta (p < 0.05) and fat catabolism genes (p < 0.05). Our findings might help to assess the potential mechanism of cecal microbiota regulating fat deposition in chicken production. Show less
In rheumatoid arthritis (RA), hyperproliferative fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) can secrete a variety of tissue hydrolases, such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), causing the destruction of cho Show more
In rheumatoid arthritis (RA), hyperproliferative fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) can secrete a variety of tissue hydrolases, such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), causing the destruction of chondrocytes. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can directly affect FLS through extracellular vesicles (EVs). Interleukin-27 (IL-27) is a pleiotropic immune regulator frequently overexpressed in RA. The study intended to examine the effects of IL-27-induced exosomes from bone-marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) and to determine if they promote the secretion of MMP3 in synovial cells. The research team performed a genetic study. The study took place at the First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University in Haikou City, Hainan, China. The research team: (1) determined if IL-27 expression had occurred in the synovial fluid; (2) co-cultured IL-27-induced MSCs with FLS to detect the expression of MMP3 in the FLS; (3) Under IL-27 induction, MSC-derived exosomes with IL-27R knockdown were collected to detect the expression of microRNAs(miRNAs) associated with RA; (4) screened the miRNAs to determine the most significant differences in expression; (5) determined the miRNA target genes in arthritis, using Western blot (WB) and qRT-PCR; and (6) Dual luciferase and ChIP experiments confirm regulation of MMP3 by L3MBTL4. IL-27 was highly expressed in RA, and the IL-27-induced, MSC-derived exosomes promoted the expression of MMP3 in FLS. The IL-27-induced MSC-derived exosomes significantly upregulated the expression of miR-206-3p, and the miR-206-3p target, miR-206/ lethal(3) malignant brain tumor-like protein 4 (L3MBTL4), regulated the MMP3 transcription. The IL-27-induced, MSC-derived exosomes promoted MMP3 expression in the FLS through the miR-206-3p/L3MBTL4 axis, thereby promoting chondrocyte degradation and aggravating RA. IL-27 can induce the expression of miR-206 in MSCs, and miR-206 can be transported into FLS through MSC-EVs to promote FLS migration and MMP3 expression and aggravate articular cartilage damage. Patients with RA who have a high IL-27 expression may not be suitable to receive treatment with MSCs, and clinicians can use MSCs that knock down or delete IL-27R to treat RA patients who have a high IL-27 expression. Show less
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive subtype with limited effective therapies because of the absence of definitive targets. Here, we demonstrate that the expression of ZNF451, a Show more
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive subtype with limited effective therapies because of the absence of definitive targets. Here, we demonstrate that the expression of ZNF451, a poorly characterized vertebrate zinc-finger protein, is upregulated in TNBC and associated with a poor prognosis. Elevated ZNF451 expression facilitates TNBC progression by interacting with and enhancing the activity of the transcriptional activator snail family transcriptional repressor 2 (SLUG). Mechanistically, the ZNF451-SLUG complex preferentially recruits the acetyltransferase p300/CBP-associated factor (PCAF) to the CCL5 promoter, selectively facilitating CCL5 transcription by enhancing the acetylation of SLUG and local chromatin, leading to recruitment and activation of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). Disturbing the ZNF451-SLUG interaction using a peptide suppresses TNBC progression by reducing CCL5 expression and counteracting the migration and activation of TAMs. Collectively, our work provides mechanistic insights into the oncogene-like functions of ZNF451 and suggests that ZNF451 is a potential target for development of effective therapies against TNBC. Show less
Laura Schnöder, Wenqiang Quan, Ye Yu+7 more · 2023 · FASEB journal : official publication of the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology · added 2026-04-24
In Alzheimer's disease (AD) brain, inflammatory activation regulates protein levels of amyloid-β-peptide (Aβ) and phosphorylated tau (p-tau), as well as neurodegeneration; however, the regulatory mech Show more
In Alzheimer's disease (AD) brain, inflammatory activation regulates protein levels of amyloid-β-peptide (Aβ) and phosphorylated tau (p-tau), as well as neurodegeneration; however, the regulatory mechanisms remain unclear. We constructed APP- and tau-transgenic AD mice with deletion of IKKβ specifically in neurons, and observed that IKKβ deficiency reduced cerebral Aβ and p-tau, and modified inflammatory activation in both AD mice. However, neuronal deficiency of IKKβ decreased apoptosis and maintained synaptic proteins (e.g., PSD-95 and Munc18-1) in the brain and improved cognitive function only in APP-transgenic mice, but not in tau-transgenic mice. Additionally, IKKβ deficiency decreased BACE1 protein and activity in APP-transgenic mouse brain and cultured SH-SY5Y cells. IKKβ deficiency increased expression of PP2A catalytic subunit isoform A, an enzyme dephosphorylating cerebral p-tau, in the brain of tau-transgenic mice. Interestingly, deficiency of IKKβ in neurons enhanced autophagy as indicated by the increased ratio of LC3B-II/I in brains of both APP- and tau-transgenic mice. Thus, IKKβ deficiency in neurons ameliorates AD-associated pathology in APP- and tau-transgenic mice, perhaps by decreasing Aβ production, increasing p-tau dephosphorylation, and promoting autophagy-mediated degradation of BACE1 and p-tau aggregates in the brain. However, IKKβ deficiency differently protects neurons in APP- and tau-transgenic mice. Further studies are needed, particularly in the context of interaction between Aβ and p-tau, before IKKβ/NF-κB can be targeted for AD therapies. Show less
Genome-wide association studies (GWASs) have identified numerous susceptibility loci for Parkinson's disease (PD), but its genetic architecture remains underexplored in populations of non-European anc Show more
Genome-wide association studies (GWASs) have identified numerous susceptibility loci for Parkinson's disease (PD), but its genetic architecture remains underexplored in populations of non-European ancestry. To identify genetic variants associated with PD in the Chinese population, we performed a GWAS using whole-genome sequencing (WGS) in 1,972 cases and 2,478 controls, and a replication study in a total of 8209 cases and 9454 controls. We identified one new risk variant rs61204179 (P Show less
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) take an effect on tumorigenesis and progression. However, circRNAs have not been systematically identified in breast cancer (BC) as crucial regulators in multitudinous biologi Show more
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) take an effect on tumorigenesis and progression. However, circRNAs have not been systematically identified in breast cancer (BC) as crucial regulators in multitudinous biological processes. This study is conducted to explore novel circRNAs in BC and the corresponding mechanisms of their action. The circRNA expression profile and RNA-sequencing data about BC were respectively downloaded from public database. Differentially expressed circRNAs, miRNAs, and mRNAs were identified by fold change filtering. The competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) network was established based on the relationship between circular RNAs, miRNAs and mRNAs. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis of the overlapped genes were carried out to predict the potential functions and mechanisms of circRNAs in BC. The CytoHubba plugin in Cytoscape was applied to identify the hub genes from the PPI regulatory network. Kaplan-Meier plotter was used to perform survival analysis of these hub genes further. Real-time PCR was performed to test the expression of circRNA in BC tissues. Cell function studies including transwell analysis and CCK-8 analysis were used to investigate circRNAs' biological functions. A total of seven circRNAs exhibiting differential expression were identified in this study. After the intersection between the predicted target miRNA and the down-regulated differential miRNAs (DEmiRNAs), circRNA-miRNA interactions involving 3 circRNAs and 4 miRNAs were identified. Venn diagram was utilized to intersect the predicted target genes of the 4 miRNAs and the down-regulated differential genes in BC, and 149 overlapped genes were screened out ulteriorly. Additionally, we built a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and selected six hub genes. Moreover, the survival data of BC patients suggested that low expression of ADIPOQ, LPL and LEP were significantly correlated with poor prognosis. Results from real-time PCR indicated that hsa_circ₀₀₀₀₃₇₅ was significantly down-regulated in breast cancer tissues. Functional in vitro experiments showed that over-expression of hsa_circ₀₀₀₀₃₇₅ can restrain proliferation, migration and invasion abilities of breast cancer cells. Further verification indicated that hsa_circ₀₀₀₀₃₇₅ exerted its anti-oncogene effect via sponge of miR-7706. This study constructed and analyzed a circRNA-associated ceRNA regulatory network and uncovered that hsa_circ₀₀₀₀₃₇₅ exerted its anti-oncogene effect via sponge of miR-7706. Show less
Homeobox A13 (HOXA13) has been verified as an oncogen in some malignancies. However, its role in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is still unclear. This study aims to explore the role of HOXA13 in NPC a Show more
Homeobox A13 (HOXA13) has been verified as an oncogen in some malignancies. However, its role in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is still unclear. This study aims to explore the role of HOXA13 in NPC and its underlying mechanism. The mRNA expression of HOXA13 in NPC was obtained from the GSE53819 and GSE64634 datasets in the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. MTT, colony formation and transwell assays and xenograft tumour models were used to investigate the effects of HOXA13 on NPC HNE1 cells in vitro and in vivo. The expression of HOXA13, epithelial-mesenchymal transition-transcription factor (EMT-TF) Snail and matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) was detected by immunohistochemistry, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blotting. The results showed that HOXA13 was upregulated in NPC. Silencing HOXA13 suppressed the proliferation, migration, and invasion of HNE1 cells, which inhibited tumour growth, while overexpression of HOXA13 induced the opposite effects. In addition, the expression of Snail and MMP-2 at the transcriptional and protein levels was associated with the expression of HOXA13. In summary, our results suggest that HOXA13 plays a role as a cancer-promoting gene in NPC. The underlying mechanism may be related to the upregulation of Snail and MMP-2. Show less
Glucose metabolism in fish remains a controversial area of research as many fish species are traditionally considered glucose-intolerant. Although energy homeostasis remodeling has been observed in fi Show more
Glucose metabolism in fish remains a controversial area of research as many fish species are traditionally considered glucose-intolerant. Although energy homeostasis remodeling has been observed in fish with inhibited fatty acid β-oxidation (FAO), the effects and mechanism of the remodeling caused by blocked glucose uptake remain poorly understood. In this study, we blocked glucose uptake by knocking out Show less
Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) is an immune-mediated inflammatory peripheral neuropathy. This study aimed to conduct a systematic analysis of the serum lipids profile in GBS. We measured the serum lipi Show more
Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) is an immune-mediated inflammatory peripheral neuropathy. This study aimed to conduct a systematic analysis of the serum lipids profile in GBS. We measured the serum lipids profile in 85 GBS patients and compared it with that of 85 healthy controls matched for age and sex. Additionally, we analyzed the correlation between lipids and the severity, subtypes, precursor infections, clinical outcomes, clinical symptoms, immunotherapy, and other laboratory markers of GBS. Compared to the healthy controls, GBS exhibited significantly elevated levels of Apolipoprotein B (APOB), Apolipoprotein C2 (APOC2), Apolipoprotein C3 (APOC3), Apolipoprotein E (APOE), triglycerides (TG), and residual cholesterol (RC). Conversely, Apolipoprotein A1 (APOA1), Apolipoprotein A2 (APOA2), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) were substantially lower in GBS. Severe GBS displayed noticeably higher levels of APOC3 and total cholesterol (TC) compared to those with mild disease. Regarding different clinical outcomes, readmitted GBS demonstrated higher RC expression than those who were not readmitted. Moreover, GBS who tested positive for neuro-virus antibody IGG in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) exhibited heightened expression of APOC3 in comparison to those who tested negative. GBS with cranial nerve damage showed significantly reduced expression of HDL and APOA1 than those without such damage. Additionally, GBS experiencing limb pain demonstrated markedly decreased HDL expression. Patients showed a significant reduction in TC after intravenous immunoglobulin therapy. We observed a significant positive correlation between lipids and inflammatory markers, including TNF-α, IL-1β, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), white blood cells, monocytes, and neutrophils in GBS. Notably, APOA1 exhibited a negative correlation with ESR. Furthermore, our findings suggest a potential association between lipids and the immune status of GBS. The research demonstrated a strong connection between lipids and the severity, subtypes, clinical outcomes, precursor infections, clinical symptoms, immunotherapy, inflammation, and immune status of GBS. This implies that a low-fat diet or the use of lipid-lowering medications may potentially serve as an approach for managing GBS, offering a fresh viewpoint for clinical treatment of this condition. Show less
Growth traits are the economically important traits of sheep, and screening for genes related to growth and development is helpful for the genetic improvement of ovine growth traits. The fatty acid de Show more
Growth traits are the economically important traits of sheep, and screening for genes related to growth and development is helpful for the genetic improvement of ovine growth traits. The fatty acid desaturase 3 ( Show less
Tientsin albino 2 (TA2) mice can develop spontaneous breast cancer (SBC), which is associated with multiple pregnancies and infection with the mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV). In this study, we sough Show more
Tientsin albino 2 (TA2) mice can develop spontaneous breast cancer (SBC), which is associated with multiple pregnancies and infection with the mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV). In this study, we sought to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the development of SBC in TA2 mice induced by MMTV. The integration site of MMTV in TA2 SBC was identified using whole-genome sequencing. The expression of fibroblast growth factor 3 (FGF3) in SBCs and normal breast tissues was compared. The primary cell line, TA-1106, derived from SBC, was cultured. The proliferation, cell cycle, migration, invasion, and tumorigenicity abilities, as well as the expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition-related proteins, phosphorylated STAT3, and phosphorylated Akt, were assessed in MA-891cell line from TA2 and TA-1106 cells after FGF3 knockdown. The binding of FGF3 to FGF receptor 1 (FGFR1) was determined by co-immunoprecipitation. Additionally, the relationship between STAT3 and Akt phosphorylation was investigated using a small molecule inhibitor and STAT3 knockdown. MMTV integrated upstream of the FGF3 gene, and the FGF3 protein was highly expressed in TA2 SBCs. FGF3 knockdown in MA-891 and TA-1106 decreased their proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities, affected the cell cycle and expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition-related proteins, and inhibited the growth of animal xenografts. FGF3 binds to FGFR1, and either FGF3 or FGFR1 knockdown decreases STAT3 and Akt phosphorylation levels. Inhibition of phosphorylation or expression of STAT3 resulted in decreased Akt phosphorylation levels. Inhibition of Akt phosphorylation also resulted in decreased STAT3 phosphorylation levels. Furthermore, treatment of MA-891 and TA-1106 cells with Wortmannin or Stattic caused FGFR1 upregulation in addition to inhibiting Akt or STAT3 phosphorylation. The results of this study demonstrate that FGF3 plays a significant role in the development of SBC through the FGF3/FGFR1/STAT3 signaling pathway. There is a reciprocal activation between STAT3 and Akt. Inhibition of STAT3 or Akt phosphorylation promoted the expression of FGFR1. Validating the conclusions obtained in this study in human breast cancer (HBC) may contribute to targeted therapy and it is worth exploring whether the homologous sequences of MMTV in HBC have a similar oncogenic effect. Show less
The mammalian mitochondrial branched-chain ketoacid dehydrogenase (BCKD) complex is a multienzyme complex involved in the catabolism of branched-chain amino acids. BCKD is regulated by the BCKD kinase Show more
The mammalian mitochondrial branched-chain ketoacid dehydrogenase (BCKD) complex is a multienzyme complex involved in the catabolism of branched-chain amino acids. BCKD is regulated by the BCKD kinase, or BCKDK, which binds to the E2 subunit of BCKD, phosphorylates its E1 subunit, and inhibits enzymatic activity. Inhibition of the BCKD complex results in increased levels of branched-chain amino acids and branched-chain ketoacids, and this buildup has been associated with heart failure, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. To find BCKDK inhibitors for potential treatment of these diseases, we performed both NMR and virtual fragment screening and identified tetrazole-bearing fragments that bind BCKDK at multiple sites. Through structure-based virtual screening expanding from these fragments, the angiotensin receptor blocker class antihypertension drugs and angiotensin receptor blocker-like compounds were discovered to be potent BCKDK inhibitors, suggesting potential new avenues for heart failure treatment combining BCKDK inhibition and antihypertension. Show less
The poorly understood regulatory mechanisms impede gastric cancer therapy. Kruppel-like factors (KLFs) are associated with the development of various tumors, The studies on the role of the KLF transcr Show more
The poorly understood regulatory mechanisms impede gastric cancer therapy. Kruppel-like factors (KLFs) are associated with the development of various tumors, The studies on the role of the KLF transcription factor 13 (KLF13) in gastric cancer progression haven't been studied. The current study aimed to investigate the role of KLF13 in the migration and invasion of gastric cancer and the regulatory mechanism of KLF13 in gastric cancer progression. The research team performed a laboratory study. The study took place at the Zengcheng District People's Hospital of Guangzhou in Zengcheng, China. In addition to using normal gastric cells, GES1, and seven gastric cancer cell lines, the research team compared the fresh, gastric cancer tissues (T) and paired, adjacent, noncancerous gastric tissues (ANT) from eight patients undergoing surgical resection at the hospital. The research team also downloaded the data for 33 gastric cancer tissues and adjacent, normal gastric tissues from the Cancer Genome Atlas' TCGA database. The research team used: (1) short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) to knock down KLF13, (2) wound healing and transwell invasion analyses to determine the effects of KLF13 on the migration and invasion of gastric cancer, and (3) a Luciferase reporter assay to determine the effects of KLF13 on nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) activity. KLF13 was upregulated in gastric cancer cells and tissues, and the patients with a high KLF13 expression had poor outcome. Downregulation of KLF13 significantly inhibited the migration and invasion of gastric cancer cells. Mechanistically, downregulation of KLF13 significantly inhibited NF-κB activity, and its targets such as: (1) snail family transcriptional repressor 1 (SNAI1 or Snail), (2) snail family transcriptional repressor 2 (SNAI2 or Slug), (3) zinc finger e-box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1), (4) Smad interacting protein 1 (Sip1), (5) twist family basic helix-loop-helix (BHLH) transcription factor (Twist), (6) matrix metallopeptidase 2 (MMP2), and (7) MMP9. Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) can activate NF-κB. Treating with TNF-α can reverse the effects of KLF13 downregulation on migration and invasion, confirming that KLF13 promotes the migration and invasion of gastric cancer cells through activating the NF-κB pathway. KLF13 promoted the migration and invasion of gastric cancer cells through activating the NF-κB pathway, providing a new target for gastric cancer therapy. Show less
IL-27 is a pleiotropic cytokine that exhibits stimulatory/regulatory functions on multiple lineages of immune cells and has a potential to be used as a therapeutic for cancer. We have recently demonst Show more
IL-27 is a pleiotropic cytokine that exhibits stimulatory/regulatory functions on multiple lineages of immune cells and has a potential to be used as a therapeutic for cancer. We have recently demonstrated that administration of IL-27 producing adeno-associated virus (AAV-IL-27) exhibits potent inhibition of tumor growth in mouse models. In this study, we demonstrate that AAV-IL-27 treatment leads to significant expansion of CD11b+Gr1+ myeloid cells. AAV-IL-27-induced expansion of CD11b+Gr1+ cells is IL-27R-dependent and requires Stat3 signaling, but it is inhibited by Stat1 signaling. AAV-IL-27 treatment does not increase the self-renewal capacity of CD11b+Gr1+ cells but induces significant expansion of Lin-Sca1+c-Kit+ (LSK) and granulocyte-monocyte progenitor cells. Despite exhibiting significant suppression of T cells in vitro, IL-27-induced CD11b+Gr1+ cells lost the tumor-promoting activity in vivo and overall play an antitumor role. In tumors from AAV-IL-27-treated mice, CD11b+Gr1+ cells are largely F4/80+ and express high levels of MHC class I/II and M1 macrophage markers. Thus, IL-27 gene therapy induces Stat3-mediated expansion of CD11b+Gr1+ myeloid cells and promotes accumulation of M1 macrophages in the tumor microenvironment. Show less
Alzheimer's disease (AD) poses a significant threat to the global elderly population. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been widely utilized in the treatment of AD. Osthole, a bioactive ingredien Show more
Alzheimer's disease (AD) poses a significant threat to the global elderly population. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been widely utilized in the treatment of AD. Osthole, a bioactive ingredient classified as an "emperor" in many TCM formulas, has been demonstrated to effectively alleviate AD symptoms. However, its low bioavailability in the brain has limited its clinical application. This study aimed to increase the intracerebral bioavailability of osthole by using borneol as a "courier," based on the classical "Emperor-Minister-Assistant-Courier" model, and to investigate the enhanced pharmacological performance of osthole on AD. Results indicated that a suitable Show less
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a fatal malignant tumor in hematology. Mitophagy plays vital roles in the pathogenesis and drug sensitivity of MM. We acquired transcriptomic expression data and clinical inde Show more
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a fatal malignant tumor in hematology. Mitophagy plays vital roles in the pathogenesis and drug sensitivity of MM. We acquired transcriptomic expression data and clinical index of MM patients from NCI public database, and 36 genes involved in mitophagy from the gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) database. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression analysis was conducted to construct a risk score prognostic model. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and receiver operation characteristic curves (ROC) were conducted to identify the efficiency of prognosis and diagnosis. ESTIMATE algorithm and immune-related single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) was performed to uncover the level of immune infiltration. QRT-PCR was performed to verify gene expression in clinical samples of MM patients. The sensitivity to chemotherapy drugs was evaluated upon the database of the genomics of drug sensitivity in cancer (GDSC). Fifty mitophagy-related genes were differently expressed in two independent cohorts. Ten out of these genes were identified to be related to MM overall survival (OS) rate. A prognostic risk signature model was built upon on these genes: VDAC1, PINK1, VPS13C, ATG13, and HUWE1, which predicted the survival of MM accurately and stably both in training and validation cohorts. MM patients suffered more adverse prognosis showed more higher risk core. In addition, the risk score was considered as an independent prognostic element for OS of MM patients by multivariate cox regression analysis. Functional pathway enrichment analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) based on risk score showed terms of cell cycle, immune response, mTOR pathway, and MYC targets were obviously enriched. Furthermore, MM patients with higher risk score were observed lower immune scores and lower immune infiltration levels. The results of qRT-PCR verified VDAC1, PINK1, and HUWE1 were dysregulated in new diagnosed MM patients. Finally, further analysis indicated MM patients showed more susceptive to bortezomib, lenalidomide and rapamycin in high-risk group. Our research provided a neoteric prognostic model of MM based on mitophagy genes. The immune infiltration level based on risk score paved a better understanding of the participation of mitophagy in MM. Show less
Endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) and endothelial cell apoptosis have been documented to have a role in atherosclerosis (AS) progression. To deepen knowledge in this aspect, our study investi Show more
Endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) and endothelial cell apoptosis have been documented to have a role in atherosclerosis (AS) progression. To deepen knowledge in this aspect, our study investigated the effect of LIM homeobox 2 (LHX2) and adhesion-regulating molecule 1 (ADRM1) on EndMT and endothelial cell apoptosis in the oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) -stimulated AS cell model.Ox-LDL was utilized to treat human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) for constructing an AS model in vitro, followed by measurement of LHX2 and ADRM1 expressions. Afterward, gain- and loss-of-function assays were performed in HUVECs, followed by detection of cell viability, invasion, migration, and apoptosis and the expression of inflammatory factors [tumor necrosis factor (TNF) -α, interleukin (IL) -1β, and IL-6], EndMT-related proteins [CD31, vascular epithelium (VE) -cadherin, vimentin, α-smooth muscle actin (SMA), Snai1, Snai2, and Twist1], and the apoptotic protein cleaved caspase-3. Interactions between LHX2 and ADRM1 were analyzed with dual-luciferase reporter gene and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays.High levels of LHX2 and ADRM1 were observed in ox-LDL-induced HUVECs. In ox-LDL-treated HUVECs, LHX2, or ADRM1 knockdown promoted CD31 and VE-cadherin levels, viability, invasion, and migration and reduced apoptosis and the expressions of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, vimentin, α-SMA, Snai1, Snai2, Twist1, and cleaved caspase-3. Mechanistically, LHX2 bound to the ADRM1 promoter to promote ADRM1 transcription. Overexpression of ADRM1 annulled the aforementioned effects of LHX2 knockdown on ox-LDL-induced HUVECs.LHX2 facilitates the pathological progression of ox-LDL-stimulated AS cell models by increasing ADRM1 transcription. Show less
Female sexual dysfunction affects approximately 40% of women in the United States, yet few therapeutic options exist for these patients. The melanocortin system is a new treatment target for hypoactiv Show more
Female sexual dysfunction affects approximately 40% of women in the United States, yet few therapeutic options exist for these patients. The melanocortin system is a new treatment target for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD), but the neuronal pathways involved are unclear. In this study, the sexual behavior of female MC4R knockout mice lacking melanocortin 4 receptors (MC4Rs) was examined. The mice were then bred to express MC4Rs exclusively on Sim1 neurons (tbMC4RSim1 mice) or on oxytocin neurons (tbMC4ROxt mice) to examine the effect on sexual responsiveness. MC4R knockout mice were found to approach males less and have reduced receptivity to copulation, as indicated by a low lordosis quotient. These changes were independent of body weight. Lordosis behavior was normalized in tbMC4R These results implicate MC4R signaling in Oxt neurons in appetitive behaviors and MC4R signaling in Sim1 neurons in female sexual receptivity, while suggesting melanocortin-driven sexual function does not rely on metabolic neural circuits. Show less
Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) belongs to the Transforming growth factor β(TGF-β) superfamily. The decrease of GDF15 in the serum of pregnant women was associated with miscarriage. Both IHC Show more
Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) belongs to the Transforming growth factor β(TGF-β) superfamily. The decrease of GDF15 in the serum of pregnant women was associated with miscarriage. Both IHC and ELISA assays showed that GDF15 in trophoblast tissue and serum of pregnant women who miscarried was significantly lower than in those who had a live birth. GDF15 deficiency was associated with embryo resorption in GDF15 knockout mice through CRIPSR editing. In addition, the migration and invasion ability of HTR-8/SVneo and JEG-3 cells were promoted by GDF15. Mechanistically, GDF15 increased Smad1/5 phosphorylation, resulting in upregulating SNAI1/2, VIMENTIN and downregulating E-CADHERIN. A dual-luciferase reporter assay confirmed that Smad-binding elements (SBE) and/or GC-rich motifs were activated and target genes such as SNAI1/2, SERPINE1, and TIMP3 were transcriptionally regulated by GDF15/Smad5 signaling. Therefore, our data revealed a crucial role of GDF15 on invasion of trophoblast by upregulating the activity of TGF-β/Smad1/5 pathway. Show less
Apolipoprotein A4 (Apo-A4) is considered as a prospective molecular biomarker for diagnosis of depression due to its neurosynaptic toxicity. Here, we propose a neighboring hybridization induced cataly Show more
Apolipoprotein A4 (Apo-A4) is considered as a prospective molecular biomarker for diagnosis of depression due to its neurosynaptic toxicity. Here, we propose a neighboring hybridization induced catalyzed hairpin assembly (CHA) driven bipedal DNA walker that mediates hybridization of Ag nanoparticles (Ag NPs) with DNA probes for highly sensitive electrochemical quantitative detection of Apo-A4. Driven by CHA, this bipedal DNA walker can spread all over the surface of the sensor, induce the HP1-HP2 double chain structure, make the surface of the sensor negatively charged, and adsorb a large number of Ag ions. After chemical reduction with hydroquinone, the Ag NPs formed provide signal tracers for electrochemical dissolution analysis of the target. The Ag NPs formed by chemical reduction of hydroquinone can provide signal traces for electrochemical stripping analysis of target thrombin. The linear range of this method is from 10 pg mL Show less