Neutrophilic asthmatics (NA) have less response to inhaled corticosteroids. We aimed to find out the predictor of treatment response in NA. Asthmatics (n = 115) and healthy controls (n = 28) underwent Show more
Neutrophilic asthmatics (NA) have less response to inhaled corticosteroids. We aimed to find out the predictor of treatment response in NA. Asthmatics (n = 115) and healthy controls (n = 28) underwent clinical assessment during 6-month follow-up with standardized therapy. Asthmatics were categorized by sputum differential cell count. The mRNA expressions were measured by RT-qPCR for sputum cytokines (IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-27, FOXP3, IL-17A, and IL-5). The protein of IL-1β in sputum supernatant was detected by ELISA. Reticular basement membranes (RBM) were measured in the biopsy samples. The role and signaling pathways of IL-1β mediating the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process were explored through A549 cells. NA had increased baseline sputum cell IL-1β expression compared to eosinophilic asthmatics (EA). After follow-up, NA had less improvement in FEV IL-1β level in baseline sputum predicts the poor lung function improvement in NA. The potential mechanism may be related to IL-1β augmenting TGF-β1-induced steroid-resistant EMT through MAPK signaling pathways. This study was approved by the Ethics Committee of Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology (IRB ID: 20150406). Show less
Preterm birth (PTB) is an immune-inflammatory disease that needs to be resolved. This study aimed to identify the role of interleukin-27 (IL-27), an immunomodulatory factor, in PTB and its associated Show more
Preterm birth (PTB) is an immune-inflammatory disease that needs to be resolved. This study aimed to identify the role of interleukin-27 (IL-27), an immunomodulatory factor, in PTB and its associated mechanisms. Here, we analyzed the high-throughput of samples data from the maternal-fetal interface to the peripheral circulation obtained from public databases and reported that the elevated IL-27 was involved with the onset of PTB. Further bioinformatics analyses (e.g. GeneMANIA and GSEA) revealed that IL-27 overexpression in the peripheral circulation as well as maternal-fetal interface is related to the activation of the immune-inflammatory process represented by IFN-γ signaling, etc. In addition, IL-27 and immune infiltration correlation analysis demonstrated that IL-27 mediates this immune-inflammatory imbalance, plausibly mainly through monocyte-macrophage and neutrophils. This finding was further validated by analyzing additional datasets. Overall, this is the first study to elaborate on the role of IL-27-mediated immuno-inflammation in PTB from the perspective of bioinformatics, which may provide a novel strategy for the prevention and treatment of PTB. Show less
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) mediated by fluid shear stress (FSS) in the tumor microenvironment plays an important role in driving metastasis of the malignant tumor. As a mechanotransducer, Show more
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) mediated by fluid shear stress (FSS) in the tumor microenvironment plays an important role in driving metastasis of the malignant tumor. As a mechanotransducer, Yes-associated protein (YAP) is known to translocate into the nucleus to initiate transcription of genes involved in cell proliferation upon extracellular biophysical stimuli. Here, we showed that FSS facilitated cytoskeleton rearrangement in hepatocellular carcinoma cells, which led to the release of YAP from its binding partner, integrin β subunit, in the cytomembrane. Moreover, we found that upregulation of guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF)-H1, a microtubule-associated Rho GEF, is a critical step in the FSS-induced translocation of YAP. Nuclear YAP activated the expression of the EMT-regulating transcription factor SNAI1, but suppressed the expression of N6-methyladenosine (m Show less
The fatty acid desaturase 1 (FADS1), also known as delta-5 desaturase (D5D), is one of the rate-limiting enzymes involved in the desaturation and elongation cascade of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUF Show more
The fatty acid desaturase 1 (FADS1), also known as delta-5 desaturase (D5D), is one of the rate-limiting enzymes involved in the desaturation and elongation cascade of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) to generate long-chain PUFAs (LC-PUFAs). Reduced function of D5D and decreased hepatic Show less
Chronic elevated free fatty (FFA) levels are linked to metabolic disorders and tumorigenesis. However, the molecular mechanism by which FFAs induce cancer remains poorly understood. Here, we show that Show more
Chronic elevated free fatty (FFA) levels are linked to metabolic disorders and tumorigenesis. However, the molecular mechanism by which FFAs induce cancer remains poorly understood. Here, we show that the tumor suppressor PTEN protein levels were decreased in high fat diet (HFD) fed mice. As palmitic acid (PA, C16:0) showed a significant increase in the HFD fed mice, we further investigated its role in PTEN down regulation. Our studies revealed that exposure of cells to high doses of PA induced mTOR/S6K-mediated phosphorylation of PTEN at T366. The phosphorylation subsequently enhanced the interaction of PTEN with the E3 ubiquitin ligase WW domain-containing protein 2 (WWP2), which promoted polyubiquitination of PTEN and protein degradation. Consistent with PTEN degradation, exposure of cells to increased concentrations of PA also promoted PTEN-mediated AKT activation and cell proliferation. Significantly, a higher level of S6K activation, PTEN T366 phosphorylation, and AKT activation were also observed in the livers of the HFD fed mice. These results provide a molecular mechanism by which a HFD and elevated PA regulate cell proliferation through inactivation of tumor suppressor PTEN. Show less
Post-synaptic density 93 (PSD-93) mediates glutamate excitotoxicity induced by ischemic brain injury, which then induces microglial inflammatory response. However, the underlying mechanisms of how PSD Show more
Post-synaptic density 93 (PSD-93) mediates glutamate excitotoxicity induced by ischemic brain injury, which then induces microglial inflammatory response. However, the underlying mechanisms of how PSD-93 mediates the crosstalk between neurons and microglia in the post-synaptic dense region remain elusive. CX3 chemokine ligand 1 (CX3CL1) is a chemokine specifically expressed in neurons while its receptor CX3CR1 is highly expressed in microglia. In this study, we examined the interaction of PSD-93 and CX3CL1 in the crosstalk between neurons and microglia in acute ischemic stroke. We utilized male C57BL/6 mice to establish the middle cerebral artery occlusion model (MCAO) and designed a fusion small peptide Tat-CX3CL1 (357-395aa) to inhibit PSD-93 and CX3CL1 interaction. The combination peaks of PSD-93 and CX3CL1 at 6 hr after I/R were observed. The binding sites were located at the 420-535 amino acid sequence of PSD-93 and 357-395 amino acid sequence of CX3CL1. Tat-CX3CL1 (357-395aa) could inhibit the interaction of PSD-93 and CX3CL1 and inhibited the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1β and TNF-α expression and provided neuroprotection following reperfusion. Together, these data suggest that PSD-93 binds CX3CL1 to activate microglia and initiate neuroinflammation. Specific blockade of PSD-93-CX3CL1 interaction reduces I/R induced neuronal cell death, and provides a new therapeutic target for ischemic stroke. Show less
Use of folic acid (FA) during early pregnancy protects against birth defects. However, excess FA has shown gender-specific neurodevelopmental toxicity. Previously, we fed the mice with 2.5 times the r Show more
Use of folic acid (FA) during early pregnancy protects against birth defects. However, excess FA has shown gender-specific neurodevelopmental toxicity. Previously, we fed the mice with 2.5 times the recommended amount of FA one week prior to mating and during the pregnancy and lactation periods, and detected the activated expression of Show less
Sulfatase 2 (SULF2) removes the 6- The clinical relevance of SULF2 and CAFs was examined using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and IHC analyses revealed that the expression of CAF markers, whi Show more
Sulfatase 2 (SULF2) removes the 6- The clinical relevance of SULF2 and CAFs was examined using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and IHC analyses revealed that the expression of CAF markers, which was positively correlated with that of SULF2 in the HCC tissues, predicted unfavorable postsurgical outcomes. Co-culturing HSCs with HCC cells expressing SULF2 promoted CAF differentiation. Additionally, CAFs repressed HCC cell apoptosis by activating the SDF-1/CXCR4/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Meanwhile, SULF2-induced CAFs promoted epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of HCC cells by modulating the SDF-1/CXCR4/OIP5-AS1/miR-153-3p/SNAI1 axis. Studies using HCC xenograft mouse models demonstrated that OIP5-AS1 induced EMT by upregulating SNAI1 and promoted HCC growth These data indicated that SULF2 secreted by the HCC cells induced the differentiation of HSCs into CAFs through the TGFβ1/SMAD3 signaling pathway. SULF2-induced CAFs attenuated HCC apoptosis by activating the SDF-1/CXCR4/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and induced EMT through the SDF-1/CXCR4/OIP5-AS1/miR-153-3p/SNAI1 axis. This study revealed a novel mechanism involved in the crosstalk between HCC cells and CAFs in the tumor microenvironment, which can aid in the development of novel and efficient therapeutic strategies for primary liver cancer. Show less
Although vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) is known to play a key role in causing retinal edema, whether and how VEGF-A induces intracellular edema in the retina still remains unclear. Spr Show more
Although vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) is known to play a key role in causing retinal edema, whether and how VEGF-A induces intracellular edema in the retina still remains unclear. Sprague-Dawley rats were rendered diabetic with intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin. Intravitreal injection of ranibizumab was performed 8 weeks after diabetes onset. rMC-1 cells (rat Müller cell line) were treated with glyoxal for 24 h with or without ranibizumab. The expression levels of inwardly rectifying K Compared with normal control, protein expressions of Kir4.1 and AQP4 were down-regulated significantly in diabetic rat retinas, which were prevented by ranibizumab. The above changes were recapitulated in vitro. Similarly, the intracellular potassium level in glyoxal-treated rMC-1 cells was increased, while the intracellular sodium level and Na Ranibizumab protected Müller cells from diabetic intracellular edema through the up-regulation of Kir4.1 and AQP4 by directly binding VEGF-A. It also caused a reduction in intracellular osmotic pressure. Show less
Cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) modulates lipoprotein metabolism by transferring cholesteryl ester (CE) and triglyceride (TG) between lipoproteins. However, differences in the way CETP funct Show more
Cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) modulates lipoprotein metabolism by transferring cholesteryl ester (CE) and triglyceride (TG) between lipoproteins. However, differences in the way CETP functions exist across species. Unlike human CETP, hamster CETP prefers TG over CE as a substrate, raising questions regarding how substrate preference may impact lipoprotein metabolism. To understand how altering the CE versus TG substrate specificity of CETP might impact lipoprotein metabolism in humans, we modified CETP expression in fat/cholesterol-fed hamsters, which have a human-like lipoprotein profile. Hamsters received adenoviruses expressing no CETP, hamster CETP, or human CETP. Total plasma CETP mass increased up to 70% in the hamster and human CETP groups. Hamsters expressing human CETP exhibited decreased endogenous hamster CETP, resulting in an overall CE:TG preference of plasma CETP that was similar to that in humans. Hamster CETP overexpression had little impact on lipoproteins, whereas human CETP expression reduced HDL by 60% without affecting LDL. HDLs were TG enriched and CE depleted and much smaller, causing the HDL3:HDL2 ratio to increase threefold. HDL from hamsters expressing human CETP supported higher LCAT activity and greater cholesterol efflux. The fecal excretion of HDL-associated CE in human CETP animals was unchanged. However, much of this cholesterol accumulated in the liver and was associated with a 1.8-fold increase in hepatic cholesterol mass. Overall, these data show in a human-like lipoprotein model that modification of CETP's lipid substrate preference selectively alters HDL concentration and function. This provides a powerful tool for modulating HDL metabolism and impacting sterol balance in vivo. Show less
Elucidating virus-cell interactions is fundamental to understanding viral replication and identifying targets for therapeutic control of viral infection. The extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK Show more
Elucidating virus-cell interactions is fundamental to understanding viral replication and identifying targets for therapeutic control of viral infection. The extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway has been shown to regulate pathogenesis during many viral infections, but its role during coronavirus infection is undetermined. Infectious bronchitis virus is the representative strain of Gammacoronavirus, which causes acute and highly contagious diseases in the poultry farm. In this study, we investigated the role of ERK1/2 signaling pathway in IBV infection. We found that IBV infection activated ERK1/2 signaling and the up-regulation of phosphatase DUSP6 formed a negative regulation loop. Pharmacological inhibition of MEK1/2-ERK1/2 signaling suppressed the expression of DUSP6, promoted cell death, and restricted virus replication. In contrast, suppression of DUSP6 by chemical inhibitor or siRNA increased the phosphorylation of ERK1/2, protected cells from apoptosis, and facilitated IBV replication. Overexpression of DUSP6 decreased the level of phospho-ERK1/2, promoted apoptosis, while dominant negative mutant DUSP6-DN lost the regulation function on ERK1/2 signaling and apoptosis. In conclusion, these data suggest that MEK-ERK1/2 signaling pathway facilitates IBV infection, probably by promoting cell survival; meanwhile, induction of DUSP6 forms a negative regulation loop to restrict ERK1/2 signaling, correlated with increased apoptosis and reduced viral load. Consequently, components of the ERK pathway, such as MEK1/2 and DUSP6, represent excellent targets for the development of antiviral drugs. Show less
The RGS (regulator of G protein signaling) gene family, which includes negative regulators of G protein-coupled receptors, comprises important drug targets for malignant tumors. It is thus of great si Show more
The RGS (regulator of G protein signaling) gene family, which includes negative regulators of G protein-coupled receptors, comprises important drug targets for malignant tumors. It is thus of great significance to explore the value of RGS family genes for diagnostic and prognostic prediction in ovarian cancer. The RNA-seq, immunophenotype, and stem cell index data of pan-cancer, The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data, and GTEx data of ovarian cancer were downloaded from the UCSC Xena database. In the pan-cancer database, the expression level of RGS1, RGS18, RGS19, and RGS13 was positively correlated with stromal and immune cell scores. Cancer patients with high RGS18 expression were more sensitive to cyclophosphamide and nelarabine, whereas those with high RGS19 expression were more sensitive to cladribine and nelarabine. The relationship between RGS family gene expression and overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) of ovarian cancer patients was analyzed using the KM-plotter database, RGS17, RGS16, RGS1, and RGS8 could be used as diagnostic biomarkers of the immune subtype of ovarian cancer, and RGS10 and RGS16 could be used as biomarkers to predict the clinical stage of this disease. Further, Lasso cox analysis identified a five-gene risk score (RGS11, RGS10, RGS13, RGS4, and RGS3). Multivariate COX analysis showed that the risk score was an independent prognostic factor for patients with ovarian cancer. Immunohistochemistry and the HPA protein database confirmed that the five-gene signature is overexpressed in ovarian cancer. GSEA showed that it is mainly involved in the ECM-receptor interaction, TGF-beta signaling pathway, Wnt signaling pathway, and chemokine signaling pathway, which promote the occurrence and development of ovarian cancer. The prediction model of ovarian cancer constructed using RGS family genes is of great significance for clinical decision making and the personalized treatment of patients with ovarian cancer. Show less
The exostosin (EXT) protein family is involved in diverse human diseases. However, the expression and prognostic value of EXT genes in human lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) is not well understood. Show more
The exostosin (EXT) protein family is involved in diverse human diseases. However, the expression and prognostic value of EXT genes in human lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) is not well understood. In this study, we analyzed the association between expression of EXT1 and EXT2 genes and survival in patients with LUSC using bioinformatics resources such as Oncomine and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases, the Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) server and Kaplan-Meier plotter. Furthermore, regulatory microRNAs (miRNAs) were predicted for EXT1 and used to establish a potential miRNA-messenger RNA (mRNA) regulation network for LUSC using the ENCORI platform. We observed that EXT1 and EXT2 expression levels were higher in LUSC than those in normal tissues. However, only EXT1 expression was significantly associated with poor overall survival (OS) in LUSC patients. Functional annotation enrichment analysis showed that genes co-expressed with the EXT1 gene were enriched in biological processes such as cell adhesion and migration, and KEGG pathways such as extracellular matrix receptor interactions, complement and coagulation cascades, and cell death. Furthermore, three miRNAs, hsa-mir-190a-5p, hsa-mir-195-5p, and hsa-mir-490-3p, were identified to be potentially involved in the regulation of EXT1. In summary, we identified EXT1 expression as a novel potential prognostic marker for human LUSC and the regulatory miRNAs that could possibly contribute to the prognosis of the disease. Show less
Melanocortin-3 receptor (MC3R) is a regulator of energy homeostasis, and interaction of MC3R and melanocortin-2 receptor accessory protein 2 (MRAP2) plays a critical role in MC3R signaling of mammals. Show more
Melanocortin-3 receptor (MC3R) is a regulator of energy homeostasis, and interaction of MC3R and melanocortin-2 receptor accessory protein 2 (MRAP2) plays a critical role in MC3R signaling of mammals. However, the physiological roles of MC3R in teleosts are not well understood. In this study, qRT-PCR was used to measure gene expression. Radioligand binding assay was used to study the binding properties of topmouth culter MC3R (caMC3R). Intracellular cAMP generation was determined by RIA, and caMC3R expression was quantified with flow cytometry. We showed that culter mc3r had higher expression in the CNS. All agonists could bind and stimulate caMC3R to increase dose dependently intracellular cAMP accumulation. Compared to human MC3R, culter MC3R showed higher constitutive activity, higher efficacies, and Rmax to alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), des-α-MSH, and adrenocorticotrophic hormone. Both caMRAP2a and caMRAP2b markedly decreased caMC3R basal cAMP production. However, only caMRAP2a significantly decreased cell surface expression, Bmax, and Rmax of caMC3R. Expression analysis suggested that MRAP2a and MRAP2b might be more important in regulating MC3R/MC4R signaling during larval period, and reduced mc3r, mc4r, and pomc expression might be primarily involved in modulation of MC3R/MC4R in adults. These data indicated that the cloned caMC3R was a functional receptor. MRAP2a and MRAP2b had different effects on expression and signaling of caMC3R. In addition, expression analysis suggested that MRAP2s, receptors, and hormones might play different roles in regulating culter development and growth. Show less
MiR-452-5p plays an essential role in the development of a variety of tumors, but little is known about its biological function and mechanism in colorectal cancer (CRC). The expression levels of miR-4 Show more
MiR-452-5p plays an essential role in the development of a variety of tumors, but little is known about its biological function and mechanism in colorectal cancer (CRC). The expression levels of miR-452-5p in CRC tissues and cells were detected by real-time quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR). Besides, the biological effects of miR-452-5p on CRC were investigated by functional experiments The expression level of miR-452-5p was up-regulated in CRC tissues. MiR-452-5p promoted CRC cell proliferation, cell cycle transition and chemoresistance, and inhibited cell apoptosis. Moreover, miR-452-5p directly targeted PKN2 and DUSP6 and subsequently activated the ERK/MAPK signaling pathway, and it was transcriptionally regulated by c-Jun. To conclude, miR-452-5p expression is up-regulated in CRC, which promotes the progression of CRC by activating the miR-452-5p-PKN2/DUSP6-c-Jun positive feedback loop. These findings indicate that miR-452-5p may act as a potential therapeutic target and clinical response biomarker for CRC. Show less
Many molecular alterations are shared by embryonic liver development and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Identifying the common molecular events would provide a novel prognostic biomarker and therapeu Show more
Many molecular alterations are shared by embryonic liver development and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Identifying the common molecular events would provide a novel prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for HCC. Expression levels and clinical relevancies of SLC38A4 and HMGCS2 were investigated by qRT-PCR, western blot, TCGA and GEO datasets. The biological roles of SLC38A4 were investigated by functional assays. The downstream signalling pathway of SLC38A4 was investigated by qRT-PCR, western blot, immunofluorescence, luciferase reporter assay, TCGA and GEO datasets. SLC38A4 silencing was identified as an oncofetal molecular event. DNA hypermethylation contributed to the downregulations of Slc38a4/SLC38A4 in the foetal liver and HCC. Low expression of SLC38A4 was associated with poor prognosis of HCC patients. Functional assays demonstrated that SLC38A4 depletion promoted HCC cellular proliferation, stemness and migration, and inhibited HCC cellular apoptosis in vitro, and further repressed HCC tumorigenesis in vivo. HMGCS2 was identified as a critical downstream target of SLC38A4. SLC38A4 increased HMGCS2 expression via upregulating AXIN1 and repressing Wnt/β-catenin/MYC axis. Functional rescue assays showed that HMGCS2 overexpression reversed the oncogenic roles of SLC38A4 depletion in HCC. SLC38A4 downregulation was identified as a novel oncofetal event, and SLC38A4 was identified as a novel tumour suppressor in HCC. Show less
NRBF2, a regulatory subunit of the ATG14-BECN1/Beclin 1-PIK3C3/VPS34 complex, positively regulates macroautophagy/autophagy. In this study, we report that NRBF2 is required for the clearance of apopto Show more
NRBF2, a regulatory subunit of the ATG14-BECN1/Beclin 1-PIK3C3/VPS34 complex, positively regulates macroautophagy/autophagy. In this study, we report that NRBF2 is required for the clearance of apoptotic cells and alleviation of inflammation during colitis in mice. NRBF2-deficient mice displayed much more severe colitis symptoms after the administration of ulcerative colitis inducer, dextran sulfate sodium salt (DSS), accompanied by prominent intestinal inflammation and apoptotic cell accumulation. Interestingly, we found that Show less
Metastasis and chemoresistance are major causes of poor prognosis in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), manipulated by multiple factors including deubiquitinating enzyme (DUB). D Show more
Metastasis and chemoresistance are major causes of poor prognosis in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), manipulated by multiple factors including deubiquitinating enzyme (DUB). DUB PSMD14 is reported to be a promising therapeutic target in various cancers. Here, we explored the antitumor activity of Thiolutin (THL), the PSMD14 inhibitor, as a new therapy strategy in ESCC. Show less
Targeted therapies for gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) are modestly effective, but GIST cannot be cured with single agent tyrosine kinase inhibitors. In this study, we sought to identify new the Show more
Targeted therapies for gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) are modestly effective, but GIST cannot be cured with single agent tyrosine kinase inhibitors. In this study, we sought to identify new therapeutic targets in GIST by investigating the tumor microenvironment. Here, we identified a paracrine signaling network by which cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) drive GIST growth and metastasis. Specifically, CAFs isolated from human tumors were found to produce high levels of platelet-derived growth factor C (PDGFC), which activated PDGFC-PDGFRA signal transduction in GIST cells that regulated the expression of SLUG, an epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) transcription factor and downstream target of PDGFRA signaling. Together, this paracrine induce signal transduction cascade promoted tumor growth and metastasis in vivo. Moreover, in metastatic GIST patients, SLUG expression positively correlated with tumor size and mitotic index. Given that CAF paracrine signaling modulated GIST biology, we directly targeted CAFs with a dual PI3K/mTOR inhibitor, which synergized with imatinib to increase tumor cell killing and in vivo disease response. Taken together, we identified a previously unappreciated cellular target for GIST therapy in order to improve disease control and cure rates. Show less
The IL family of cytokines participates in immune response and regulation. We previously found that soluble IL-6 receptor plays an important role in the host antiviral response. In this study, we dete Show more
The IL family of cytokines participates in immune response and regulation. We previously found that soluble IL-6 receptor plays an important role in the host antiviral response. In this study, we detected the IL-6-IL-27 complex in serum and throat swab samples from patients infected with influenza A virus. A plasmid expressing the IL-6-IL-27 complex was constructed to explore its biological function. The results indicated that the IL-6-IL-27 complex has a stronger antiviral effect than the individual subunits of IL-6, IL-27A, and EBV-induced gene 3. Furthermore, the activity of the IL-6-IL-27 complex is mainly mediated by the IL-27A subunit and the IL-27 receptor α. The IL-6-IL-27 complex can positively regulate virus-triggered expression of IFN and IFN-stimulated genes by interacting with adaptor protein mitochondrial antiviral signaling protein, potentiating the ubiquitination of TNF receptor-associated factors 3 and 6 and NF-κB nuclear translocation. The secreted IL-6-IL-27 complex can induce the phosphorylation of STAT1 and STAT3 and shows antiviral activity. Our results demonstrate a previously unrecognized mechanism by which IL-6, IL-27A, and EBV-induced gene 3 form a large complex both intracellularly and extracellularly, and this complex acts in the host antiviral response. Show less
Tripartite motif containing 16 (TRIM16) is a member of the tripartite motif protein family and functions as a potential tumor suppressor in several cancers. However, the specific function and clinical Show more
Tripartite motif containing 16 (TRIM16) is a member of the tripartite motif protein family and functions as a potential tumor suppressor in several cancers. However, the specific function and clinical significance of TRIM16 in colorectal cancer (CRC) remains unclear. In this study, we observed that low TRIM16 expression was detected frequently in primary colorectal cancer (CRC) tissues and was closely associated with a better prognosis. Functional studies demonstrate that TRIM16 overexpression notably inhibits the metastasis abilities of CRC in vivo and in vitro. Mechanistically, our results demonstrated that TRIM16 directly bound and ubiquitinated Snail family transcriptional repressor 1 (Snail), an important transcriptional factor of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process suppressing the EMT in CRC. Additionally, our data revealed that the inhibition effect of TRIM16 on cancer metastasis was dependent on Snail degradation. Collectively, our study is the first to report that TRIM16 plays a crucial anti-tumor role in CRC tumorigenesis. We also provided novel evidence that TRIM16 might act as a prognostic and therapeutic target to assess and inhibit CRC progression. Show less
Hereditary multiple exostoses (HME), also referred to as multiple osteochondromas, is an autosomal dominant skeletal disease characterized by the development of multiple overgrown benign bony tumors c Show more
Hereditary multiple exostoses (HME), also referred to as multiple osteochondromas, is an autosomal dominant skeletal disease characterized by the development of multiple overgrown benign bony tumors capped by cartilage and is associated with bone deformity, joint limitation, and short stature. Mutations in exostosin glycosyltransferase (EXT)1 and EXT2 genes, which are located on chromosomes 8q24.1 and 11p13, contribute to the pathogenesis of HME. In the present study, a genetic analysis of a four-generation Chinese family with HME was conducted using whole-exome sequencing (WES), followed by validation using Sanger sequencing. A novel heterozygous frameshift mutation in exon 5 of EXT2 (c.944dupT, p.Leu316fs) was identified in all affected individuals but was not detected in any unaffected individuals. This mutation results in a frameshift that introduces a premature termination codon at position 318 (p.Leu316fs) with the ability to produce a truncated EXT2 protein that lacks the last 433 amino acids at its C-terminal to indicate a defective exostosin domain and the absence of the glycosyltransferase family 64 domain, or to lead to the degradation of mRNAs by nonsense-mediated mRNA decay, which is critical for the function of EXT2. Our results indicate that WES is effective in extending the EXT mutational spectra and is advantageous for genetic counseling and the subsequent prenatal diagnosis. Show less
As a common organophosphorus flame retardant, tris (2-butoxyethyl) phosphate (TBOEP) is detected in water environment and aquatic animals extensively. Despite previous researches have reported the dev Show more
As a common organophosphorus flame retardant, tris (2-butoxyethyl) phosphate (TBOEP) is detected in water environment and aquatic animals extensively. Despite previous researches have reported the developmental toxicity of TBOEP in zebrafish (Danio rerio) larvae, few research focused on its underlying mechanisms. In this study, zebrafish embryos were exposed to 0, 20, 200, 1000 and 2000 µg/L TBOEP from 2 until 120 h post-fertilization (hpf) to determine potential mechanisms of developmental toxicity of this compound. Early developmental stage parameters such as body length, survival rate, hatching rate and heart rate were decreased, while malformation rate was ascended. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) assay was carried out at 12, 24, 72 and 120 hpf to demonstrate alterations in expression of genes of Wnt signaling pathway. The results indicated that axin1 was significantly up-regulated, while β-catenin, pkc and wnt11 were down-regulated. Correlation analysis indicated that expression of these genes was significantly correlated with body length. Furthermore, apoptosis was detected in heart region by acridine orange (AO) staining and terminal deoxynucleotide transferase-mediated deoxy-UTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay. In addition, at 120 hpf, occurrence of oxidative stress was observed in zebrafish larvae. Moreover, 6-Bromoindirubin-3'-oxime (BIO), an activator of Wnt pathway, was found to alleviate the inhibiting effects of TBOEP on zebrafish growth. The overall outcomes offered novel viewpoints in toxic effects of TBOEP, and down-regulating Wnt signaling pathway were able to reveal some potential mechanisms of developmental toxicity of TBOEP in zebrafish larvae. Show less
Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is a common complication in coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) procedures. This prospective study aimed to investigate predisposition of proteins and metab Show more
Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is a common complication in coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) procedures. This prospective study aimed to investigate predisposition of proteins and metabolites correlated to POAF after CABG and related cellular pathways. Preoperative plasma samples from patients undergoing CABG procedures were prospectively collected. After CABG, the patients were grouped to POAF or sinus rhythm (N = 170; n = 90 in the discovery set and n = 80 in the validation set). The plasma samples were analyzed using proteomics, metabolomics, and bioinformatics to identify the differential proteins and differential metabolites. The correlation between differential proteins and POAF was also investigated by multivariable regression analysis and receiver operator characteristic analysis. In the POAF(+) group, 29 differential proteins and 61 differential metabolites were identified compared with the POAF(-) group. The analysis of integrated omics revealed that preoperative alteration of peroxisome proliferators-activated receptor α and glutathione metabolism pathways increased the susceptibility of POAF after CABG. There was a correlation between plasma levels of apolipoprotein-C3, phospholipid transfer protein, glutathione peroxidase 3, cholesteryl ester transfer protein, and POAF. The present study for first time at multi-omics levels explored the mechanism of POAF and validated the results in a new cohort of patients, suggesting preexisting differential proteins and differential metabolites in the plasma of patients prone to POAF after CABG. Dysregulation of peroxisome proliferators-activated receptor α and glutathione metabolism pathways related to metabolic remodeling and redox imbalance-associated electrical remodeling may play a key role in the pathogenesis of POAF. Lower plasma phospholipid transfer protein, apolipoprotein-C3, higher cholesteryl ester transfer protein and glutathione peroxidase 3 levels are linked with POAF. These proteins/metabolites may be developed as biomarkers to predict POAF. Show less
Su Wu, Bixia Zheng, Ting Liu+3 more · 2021 · Zhonghua yi xue yi chuan xue za zhi = Zhonghua yixue yichuanxue zazhi = Chinese journal of medical genetics · added 2026-04-24
To explore the genetic basis for a sib pair featuring 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 3 deficiency. Genomic DNA was extracted from the proband, her sister, and their parents, and was subjecte Show more
To explore the genetic basis for a sib pair featuring 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 3 deficiency. Genomic DNA was extracted from the proband, her sister, and their parents, and was subjected to sequencing analysis with a gene panel for sexual development. Suspected variant was verified by Sanger sequencing and bioinformatic analysis. Both the proband and her sister were found to harbor novel compound heterozygous missense variants of the HSD17B3 gene, namely c.839T>C (p.Leu280Pro) and c.239G>T (p.Arg80Leu), which were derived respectively from their mother and father. The variants were unreported previously and predicted to be deleterious by PolyPhen2, MutationTaster and other online software. Based on the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics standards and guidelines, both c.839T>C(p.Leu280Pro) and c.239G>T (p.Arg80Leu) were predicted to be likely pathogenic (PM2+PP1+PP2+PP3+PP4, PM2+PM5+PP1+PP2+PP3+PP4). The compound heterogeneous variants of the HSD17B3 gene probably underlay the disease in this sib pair. 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 3 deficiency may lack specific clinical features and laboratory index, genetic testing can facilitate a definitive diagnosis. Show less
Jatropha curcas L. (Euphorbiaceae), as a drought resistant shrub mainly cultivated in tropical and subtropical areas worldwide, is widely used as traditional medicine to cure arthritis, dysentery, abs Show more
Jatropha curcas L. (Euphorbiaceae), as a drought resistant shrub mainly cultivated in tropical and subtropical areas worldwide, is widely used as traditional medicine to cure arthritis, dysentery, abscess and pneumonia in Asian, African and South American folklores. The methanolic extracts of the roots have been revealed the anti-inflammatory activity in vivo and vitro. This research aimed to provide promising anti-inflammatory candidates from the roots of J. curcas. In addition, RNA-Seq was conducted to give targeted genes involved in the anti-inflammatory action. The diterpenoids were isolated from the CH Six diterpenoids were obtained from J. curcas, and four of them were identified to be new lathyrane diterpenoids: jatrocurcasenones F-I (1-4). Compounds 3 and 4 exhibited potent inhibitory activities against LPS-induced nitric oxide (NO) production in RAW264.7 cells with IC This study offered four new lathyrane diterpenoids, of them, jatrocurcasenone I (4) showed significant anti-inflammatory activity. RNA-Seq suggested that jatrocurcasenone I (4) could be a candidate drug for the prevention inflammation-mediated diseases by modulating 24 candidate DEGs. Show less
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is one of the most common lethal cancers in the world. Dysregulation of purine-rich element binding protein alpha (PURα), which contributes to the initiation Show more
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is one of the most common lethal cancers in the world. Dysregulation of purine-rich element binding protein alpha (PURα), which contributes to the initiation of PURΑ syndrome, is reportedly involved in the progression of multiple cancers, but its function and underlying mechanisms in ESCC progression remain unclear. Here, we first demonstrated that PURα promoted cell growth, migration and invasion in ESCC both in vitro and in vivo. An immunohistochemistry assay was then performed on 225 ESCC tissues, showing that high PURα expression was positively associated with lymph node metastasis and the AJCC stage, and the ESCC patients with positive PURα expression had worse survival. In addition, RNA sequencing implied that PURα induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in ESCC, which was further confirmed by qPCR, Western blotting and immunofluorescence analyses. Mechanistically, PURα enhanced the transcription of Snail2 by binding to its promoter region. Knockdown of Snail2 reversed PURα-induced EMT and inhibited the migration and invasion of ESCC cells. In conclusion, this study indicated that PURα promotes Snail2 transcriptional activity to induce EMT during ESCC progression. Show less
Ischemia reperfusion (IR) injury dampens renal function and usually confers a great risk of renal failure. Aberrant expression of G9a, a H3K9 methyltransferase of mammalian histone, has been implicate Show more
Ischemia reperfusion (IR) injury dampens renal function and usually confers a great risk of renal failure. Aberrant expression of G9a, a H3K9 methyltransferase of mammalian histone, has been implicated as a driving event in various kidney diseases. However, the role of G9a plays in renal IR injury is required to be clarified. Herein, our results showed that renal IR injury resulted in a rapid elevation of G9a, accompanying the down-regulation of Sirt1, a deacetylase that has been reported to afford renoprotection. Genetic overexpression or therapeutic activation of Sirt1 efficiently ameliorated renal IR injury by elevating anti-oxidative genes expression and reducing the accumulation of reactive oxygen species, including O Show less
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is an inherited heart disease that can cause sudden cardiac death and heart failure. HCM often arises from mutations in sarcomeric genes, among which the MYBPC3 is th Show more
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is an inherited heart disease that can cause sudden cardiac death and heart failure. HCM often arises from mutations in sarcomeric genes, among which the MYBPC3 is the most frequently mutated. Here we generated two human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) lines from a HCM patient who has a familial history of HCM and his daughter who carries the pathogenic non-coding mutation. All lines show the typical morphology of pluripotent cells, a high expression of pluripotency markers, normal karyotype, and in vitro capacity to differentiate into all three germ layers. These lines provide a valuable resource for studying the molecular basis of HCM and drug screening for HCM. Show less