Atherosclerosis (AS) remains a leading cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, characterized by intricate interactions between immune dysregulation and lipid metabolism abnormalities-identify Show more
Atherosclerosis (AS) remains a leading cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, characterized by intricate interactions between immune dysregulation and lipid metabolism abnormalities-identifying key mediators in its pathogenesis is critical for improving diagnostics and therapies. This study focuses on Transmembrane Protein 106A (TMEM106A) to clarify its role and clinical relevance in AS progression. Public transcriptomic datasets (GSE43292, GSE100927, GSE28829) were analyzed to assess TMEM106A expression and diagnostic value; single-cell RNA-seq data (GSE159677) defined its cellular localization. Immune infiltration (ssGSEA, Cibersort, xCell) and CellChat (intercellular communication) analyses explored its immune associations. TMEM106A was significantly upregulated in AS samples across datasets, with strong diagnostic efficacy (AUC 0.80-0.95). Single-cell analysis confirmed its specific enrichment in macrophages, with functional links to immune-related pathways. TMEM106A promoted macrophage infiltration, foam cell formation, oxidative stress, and inflammatory responses, while regulating PLCB2 in chemokine signaling; silencing TMEM106A alleviated these pro-atherosclerotic effects. TMEM106A contributes to AS progression by modulating macrophage-mediated immune responses and chemokine signaling, as validated in experimental models. These findings support its potential as a clinically relevant biomarker and promising therapeutic target for AS intervention. Show less
Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) has serious harm to human hearing health, where blood lipid and inflammatory levels may play a key role in it. Thus, the purpose of this investigation was to Show more
Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) has serious harm to human hearing health, where blood lipid and inflammatory levels may play a key role in it. Thus, the purpose of this investigation was to assess the connection between inflammatory and lipid variables and SSNHL. Patients diagnosed with SSNHL had an analysis of serum lipid parameters, such as total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides, HDL-C, LDL-C, apolipoprotein A (apo A), apolipoprotein B (apo B), and lipoprotein A (Lp(a)), as well as inflammatory factors like TNF-α and IL-10. After that, risk factor analysis was carried out utilizing univariate, multivariate regression, and LASSO retrospective modeling. In all, 72 SSNHL patients and 67 healthy control individuals were involved. The LDL/HDL, total cholesterol, ApoB, LP(a), IL-10, TNF-α, and IFN-γ considerably higher in the SSNHL group than in the healthy control group, however, nervonic acid and coenzyme Q were decreased significantly in SSNHL than Control group. The multivariate logistic regression model's analysis using multifactorial retrospective modeling revealed significant changes in LDL, LDL/HDL, IL-10, and TNF-α. In addition, in the LASSO regression model, the model demonstrated high discrimination, as evidenced by the C-index for the cohort's prediction nomogram, which was 0.998 (95% CI, 0.154-1.115) and confirmed to be 0.925 following bootstrapping validation. Finally, IL-10 and LDL/HDL were the main risk factors in SSNHL. LDL/HDL and IL-10 may be closely related to SSNHL's progress and should be evaluated promptly before treating patients with SSNHL. Show less
Homologous recombination repair (HRR) is crucial for maintaining genomic stability by repairing DNA damage. Despite its importance, HRR's role in cancer progression is not fully elucidated. Here, this Show more
Homologous recombination repair (HRR) is crucial for maintaining genomic stability by repairing DNA damage. Despite its importance, HRR's role in cancer progression is not fully elucidated. Here, this work shows that nuclear-localized branched-chain α-ketoacid dehydrogenase kinase (BCKDK) acts as a modulator of HRR, promoting cell resistance against DNA damage-inducing therapy in breast cancer. Mechanistically, this work demonstrates that BCKDK is localized in the nucleus and phosphorylates RNF8 at Ser157, preventing the ubiquitin-mediated degradation of RAD51, thereby facilitating HRR-mediated DNA repair under replication stress. Notably, aberrant expression of the BCKDK/p-RNF8/RAD51 axis correlates with breast cancer progression and poor patient survival. Furthermore, this work identifies a small molecule inhibitor of BCKDK, GSK180736A, that disrupts its HRR function and exhibits strong tumor suppression when combined with DNA damage-inducing drugs. Collectively, this study reveals a new role of BCKDK in regulating HRR, independent of its metabolic function, presenting it as a potential therapeutic target and predictive biomarker in breast cancer. Show less
Atherosclerosis is the leading cause of cardiovascular disease-related morbidity and mortality. The traditional Chinese medicine Qingre Sanjie Formula (QRSJF), composed of Prunellae Spica, Sargassum, Show more
Atherosclerosis is the leading cause of cardiovascular disease-related morbidity and mortality. The traditional Chinese medicine Qingre Sanjie Formula (QRSJF), composed of Prunellae Spica, Sargassum, Fritillariae Thunbergii Bulbus, Leonuri Herba, and Forsythiae Fructus, has shown efficacy in treating cardiovascular diseases, although its mechanisms are unclear. This study aimed to explore the protective effects of QRSJF against atherosclerosis and the mechanisms involved. The composition of QRSJF was analyzed using Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography Quadrupole Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry. An 8-week high-fat diet (HFD)-induced atherosclerosis model was established in ApoE Both low- and high-dose QRSJF effectively attenuated dyslipidemia and decreased serum inflammatory cytokine levels in HFD-fed ApoE QRSJF improves dyslipidemia and reduces atherosclerotic plaque in ApoE Show less
While most patients with stage I non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remain recurrence-free after resection, some still develop recurrent disease. The surgical curative time window concept, defined as Show more
While most patients with stage I non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remain recurrence-free after resection, some still develop recurrent disease. The surgical curative time window concept, defined as no recurrence through 5-year follow-up, helps identify potentially cured patients, yet predictive clinicopathologic features in stage I invasive NSCLC need clarification. This study sought to identify such features to enable risk-adapted surveillance. We analyzed a prospectively collected dataset of patients with stage I invasive NSCLC who underwent R0 resection between 2008 and 2015. Cox regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between clinicopathologic features and disease recurrence, aiming to identify independent prognostic factors. A total of 1,817 patients met the inclusion criteria. The 5-year cumulative incidence of recurrence was 14.6%. Female sex, tumor size ≤2 cm, lepidic-predominant adenocarcinoma (LPA) histologic type, presence of a ground-glass opacity (GGO) component, and solid component size ≤10 mm were identified as independent prognostic factors. A risk stratification system was subsequently developed, classifying patients into two groups: a low-risk group (with ≥4 factors; n=341) and an elevated-risk group (with <4 factors; n=1,476). Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed statistically significant differences in recurrence-free survival (RFS), overall survival (OS), and lung cancer-specific survival (LCSS) between the two groups (P<0.001). The low-risk group is considered to represent the population within the surgical curative time window. Patients with stage I invasive NSCLC who meet at least four of the following five criteria-female sex, tumor size ≤2 cm, solid component ≤10 mm, presence of a GGO component, and LPA histologic type-may be considered within the "surgical curative time window" and may therefore qualify for reduced surveillance intensity. Show less
Cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are long-term complications of chronic liver disease (CLD). In this large multi-ancestry genome-wide association study of all-cause cirrhosis (35,481 cases Show more
Cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are long-term complications of chronic liver disease (CLD). In this large multi-ancestry genome-wide association study of all-cause cirrhosis (35,481 cases, 2.36M controls) and HCC (6,680 cases, 1.76M controls), we identified 27 loci associated with cirrhosis (10 novel) and 11 with HCC (three novel). Three novel cirrhosis loci were replicated in independent cohorts (e.g. Show less
Genomic structural variants (SVs) are a major source of genetic diversity in humans. Here, through long-read sequencing of 945 Han Chinese genomes, we identify 111,288 SVs, including 24.56% unreported Show more
Genomic structural variants (SVs) are a major source of genetic diversity in humans. Here, through long-read sequencing of 945 Han Chinese genomes, we identify 111,288 SVs, including 24.56% unreported variants, many with predicted functional importance. By integrating human population-level phenotypic and multi-omics data as well as two humanized mouse models, we demonstrate the causal roles of two SVs: one SV that emerges at the common ancestor of modern humans, Neanderthals, and Denisovans in GSDMD for bone mineral density and one modern-human-specific SV in WWP2 impacting height, weight, fat, craniofacial phenotypes and immunity. Our results suggest that the GSDMD SV could serve as a rapid and cost-effective biomarker for assessing the risk of cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury. The functional conservation from human to mouse and widespread signals of positive natural selection suggest that both SVs likely influence local adaptation, phenotypic diversity, and disease susceptibility across diverse human populations. Show less
To investigate the causal relationship between various lipid-modifying drugs and new-onset diabetes, as well as the mediators contributing to this relationship. Mediation Mendelian randomization was p Show more
To investigate the causal relationship between various lipid-modifying drugs and new-onset diabetes, as well as the mediators contributing to this relationship. Mediation Mendelian randomization was performed to investigate the causal effect of lipid-modifying drug targets on type 2 diabetes (T2D) outcomes and the proportion of this association that is mediated through ectopic fat accumulation traits. Specific sets of variants in or near genes that encode 11 lipid-modifying drug targets (LDLR, HMGCR, NPC1L1, PCSK9, APOB, ABCG5/ABCG8, LPL, PPARA, ANGPTL3, APOC3, and CETP; for expansion of gene symbols, use search tool at www.genenames.org) were extracted. Random effects inverse variance weighted were performed to evaluate the causal effects among outcomes. Mediation analyses were performed to identify the mediators of the association between lipid-modifying drugs and T2D. The study was conducted from November 10, 2023, to April 2, 2024 RESULTS: The genetic mimicry of HMGCR and APOB inhibition was associated with an increased T2D risk, whereas the genetic mimicry of LPL enhancement was linked to a lower T2D risk. Gluteofemoral adipose tissue volume was a mediator for explaining 9.52% (P=.002), 16.90% (P=.03), and 10.50% (P=.003) of the total effect of HMGCR, APOB, and LPL on T2D susceptibility, respectively. Liver fat was a mediator for explaining 21.12% (P=.005), 12.28% (P=.03), and 9.84% (P=.005) of the total effect of HMGCR, APOB, and LPL on T2D susceptibility, respectively. Our findings support the hypothesis that liver fat and gluteofemoral adipose tissue play a mediating role in the prodiabetic effects of HMGCR and APOB inhibition, as well as in the antidiabetic effects of LPL enhancement. Show less
High-intensity exercise promotes visceral adipose tissue (VAT) breakdown in females via the hypothalamic ERα pathway, and exogenous lactate infusion combined with aerobic training (AT) mimics this eff Show more
High-intensity exercise promotes visceral adipose tissue (VAT) breakdown in females via the hypothalamic ERα pathway, and exogenous lactate infusion combined with aerobic training (AT) mimics this effect. However, whether lactate administration can independently mediate hypothalamic plasticity and VAT catabolism as a standalone nutritional strategy remains unexplored. Firstly, using a two-factor design (Lactate × AT) in female SD rats, we showed that long-term exogenous lactate infusion independently induced co-expression of Estrogen receptor α (ERα) and Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) and elevated local field potential spectral power in specific bands. These neural adaptations were accompanied by increased resting metabolic rate, enhanced fat oxidation, and enhanced lipolysis, thereby preventing excessive VAT accumulation induced by a high-fat diet. Furthermore, pharmacological inhibition confirmed that Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma Coactivator 1-α (PGC-1α) acts as a co-upstream signal of ERα and BDNF mediating this process. Our findings reveal that standalone lactate administration induces functional plasticity and metabolic reprogramming through the VMH PGC-1α-ERα pathway, independent of exercise, and effectively suppresses pathological VAT accumulation in female rats. This study identifies potential nutritional interventions and mechanistic targets for preventing female-centered obesity. Show less
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PAAD) metastasis is driven by complex tumor-microenvironment interactions. Here, we integrated single-cell and bulk transcriptomic analyses of 104,855 cells from 10 p Show more
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PAAD) metastasis is driven by complex tumor-microenvironment interactions. Here, we integrated single-cell and bulk transcriptomic analyses of 104,855 cells from 10 patients to delineate the cellular and molecular landscape of primary versus metastatic PAAD. We identified metastasis-associated epithelial (LMO7⁺, TOP2A⁺, PIGR⁺), fibroblast (IGKC⁺, RGS5⁺), and M2-like macrophage (APOE⁺, CD14⁺, FOLR2⁺, SPP1⁺) subpopulations, validated via bulk deconvolution. Functional analyses revealed upregulated Wnt signaling, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and angiogenesis in metastatic epithelial and fibroblast compartments. Intercellular communication analysis highlighted SPP1-mediated macrophage-epithelial/fibroblast crosstalk involving key receptor-ligand pairs, contributing to immune suppression and metastatic niche formation. Integrating gene expression and cell proportions, we developed a prognostic model with high predictive accuracy (C-index > 0.85), stratifying patients into risk groups with distinct immune landscapes. Furthermore, PTK6 was identified as a driver of PAAD proliferation, migration, and invasion. Collectively, our study elucidates TME-driven mechanisms of PAAD metastasis, identifies prognostic and therapeutic targets, and provides a framework for precision intervention. Show less
We investigated the association between lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] levels and stroke recurrence in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients with recent acute ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack ( Show more
We investigated the association between lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] levels and stroke recurrence in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients with recent acute ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA). This study included 3,311 T2DM patients with recent acute ischemic stroke or TIA and complete Lp(a) data from the Third China National Stroke Registry. The patients were categorized into three groups based on the 40th and 70th percentiles of the Lp(a): ≤13.1, 13.1 to 29.2 and ≥ 29.2 mg/dL. The primary outcome was stroke recurrence within one year, with incident cases further classified as either ischemic or hemorrhagic. Cox proportional hazards regression and restricted cubic splines were used to evaluate these associations. A total of 3311 patients (2142 men, 64.69%, median age 63) were analyzed. Restricted cubic spline analysis revealed a U-shaped relationship between Lp(a) levels and the risk of stroke recurrence. After adjusting for cardiovascular risk factors, patients with Lp(a) levels ≤ 13.1 mg/dL or ≥ 29.2 mg/dL had hazard ratios of 1.34 (95% confidence interval (CI), 1.02-1.76) and 1.35 (95% CI, 1.01-1.79), respectively, for total stroke compared to those with Lp(a) levels between 13.1 and 29.2 mg/dL. The corresponding hazard ratios were 1.36 (95% CI, 1.02-1.81) and 1.36 (95% CI, 1.01-1.83) for ischemic stroke and 0.88 (95% CI, 0.37-2.09) and 0.77 (95% CI, 0.31-1.94) for hemorrhagic stroke, respectively. Both low and high levels of Lp(a) are associated with an increased risk of stroke recurrence in T2DM patients with a recent history of acute ischemic stroke or TIA, demonstrating a U-shaped relationship. Show less
The mediation effect of 24-hour physical activities on the association between type 2 diabetes and mortality is unclear. Additionally, Little evidence was found on the isotemporal substitution effect Show more
The mediation effect of 24-hour physical activities on the association between type 2 diabetes and mortality is unclear. Additionally, Little evidence was found on the isotemporal substitution effect of 24-hour physical activities components on changing Life expectancy among patients with type 2 diabetes diagnosed. To address the abovementioned research gap, the study has a two-fold aims: first, to examine the mediation effect of 24-hour physical activities in type 2 diabetes and mortality; and second, to address how reallocating time on different daily activities would affect life expectancy. Analysis was conducted on the accelerometer data of 103,359 participants in the UK Biobank, with a median age of 57 years (range 39 to 70). Compositional mediation cox model was conducted to analyze the mediating effects of 24-hour physical activities. Additionally, the cohort Life table method was utilized to estimate the changes of Life-years over the next 10 years resulting from the substitution effect of different physical activities. During a mean follow-up of 13.95 (range 2.95-16.28) years, 2,649 deaths were recorded. Diabetes was significantly associated with increased time spent engaging in sedentary behavior (SB), and reduced time spent on moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and light-intensive physical activity (LPA), thereby demonstrating an association with higher mortality risk. The indirect effect of physical activity (HR = 1.27, 95% CI 1.23-1.30) accounted for 41.9% of the total effect of diabetes on mortality. Furthermore, the Life expectancy gains with a maximum of 1.32 years over the next 10 years was found when reallocating SB time to MVPA. The results revealed that 24-hour physical activities might mediate the association between diabetes and mortality. Therefore, promoting participation in MVPA and reducing sedentary activities among diabetes patients was expected to have a positive effect on Life expectancy over the next 10 years. Show less
This study aimed to investigate the association between objectively and subjectively measured 24-hour movement behaviors and physical fitness, and explore how the reallocation of time between 24-hour Show more
This study aimed to investigate the association between objectively and subjectively measured 24-hour movement behaviors and physical fitness, and explore how the reallocation of time between 24-hour movement behaviors is associated with changes in physical fitness in adolescents. A total of 690 adolescents aged 14-17 years (55% girls) were included in this cross-sectional study conducted in Foshan, China. Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), light physical activity (LPA), sedentary behavior, and sleep were assessed using accelerometers in combination with a questionnaire. Physical fitness was tested through body mass index, forced vital capacity, 50-m sprint, standing long jump, sit-and-reach, gender-specific 800/1000-m run, and pull-ups/sit-ups. MVPA was significantly associated with better performance in the 50-m sprint ( Show less
Axin1 plays a critical role in regulating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and cancer progression, and its polymerization is indispensable for the assembly of the β-catenin destruction complex. How Show more
Axin1 plays a critical role in regulating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and cancer progression, and its polymerization is indispensable for the assembly of the β-catenin destruction complex. However, the mechanisms that control Axin1 polymerization are limited. Here, we reveal that TRIM15 interferes with the polymerization of Axin1, thereby promoting Wnt activation and colorectal cancer growth. Mechanistically, TRIM15 strongly interacts with Axin1 through its coiled-coil domain to disrupt the polymerization among Axin1 molecules. Manipulation of TRIM15 expression dramatically weakens Wnt signaling, cell proliferation, and tumor growth. Furthermore, conditional genetic ablation of Trim15 in mice inhibits tumor formation in both AOM/DSS-induced and Apc Show less
Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), driven by dyslipidemia and hepatic lipid deposition, has become a major public health concern. Angiopoietin-like protein 3 (ANGPTL3), a li Show more
Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), driven by dyslipidemia and hepatic lipid deposition, has become a major public health concern. Angiopoietin-like protein 3 (ANGPTL3), a lipoprotein lipase (LPL) activity inhibitor, can inhibit triglycerides (TGs) decomposition, and fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) enhances fatty acids' β-oxidation in liver. We constructed a novel fusion protein combining the anti-ANGPTL3 nanobody FD03 and FGF21 (FD03-FGF21), which exerted appropriate binding affinities to ANGPTL3 and β-Klotho respectively. Our results showed FD03-FGF21 restored bioactivity of LPL which inhibited by ANGPTL3 and activated downstream pathway of FGF21 in iLite FGF21 assay-ready cells. Next, FD03-FGF21 showed a significant therapeutic effect in MAFLD mice, including attenuation of metabolic dyslipidemia, hepatic lipid accumulation, and impaired glucose tolerance. Compared to other treatments, FD03-FGF21 achieved the most significant therapeutic effect with a 79.78 % attenuation of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and a 95.8 % reduction of hepatic lipid accumulation. Mechanistically, transcriptomic analysis revealed that differential expression genes (DEGs) were principally clustered into lipid metabolism and oxidative stress pathways after the fusion protein treatment, especially the key lipid metabolism genes of LDLR and CD36 were significantly upregulated and downregulated respectively, as confirmed by WB. Furthermore, lipidomic and metabolomic analysis indicated the fusion protein ameliorated disorders in lipid and protein metabolism mainly through the downregulation of DG and upregulation of PC. Hepatic oxidative stress and inflammation were significantly reduced after administration of the fusion protein in MAFLD mice. Collectively, FD03-FGF21 represents an effective therapeutic strategy for MAFLD therapy through ameliorating lipid metabolism and oxidative stress. Show less
Primordial follicle formation and activation are key for the reproductive ability of females. In mice, primordial follicles are formed and begin to activate during the perinatal period, when the level Show more
Primordial follicle formation and activation are key for the reproductive ability of females. In mice, primordial follicles are formed and begin to activate during the perinatal period, when the levels of estrogen are fluctuating. Whether estrogen plays a role in primordial follicle formation and activation, and its mechanism are still not fully elucidated. In this study, estrogen remained at high levels before birth and declined after birth. When fetal mouse ovaries (E16.5) were cultured in vitro, higher levels (10 nM) of estrogen maintained the germ cell cysts, prevented primordial follicles from forming prematurely, and promoted the full differentiation of oocytes. Furthermore, it was found that estrogen-regulated JNK-signal pathway through both nuclear and membrane receptors, thereby inhibited the degradation of E-cadherin and maintained the germ cell cysts. After birth, ovarian estrogen concentration decreases and is accompanied by the activation of primordial follicles. Hence, the ovaries of newborn mice (P3) were treated with lower concentrations (0.1 nM) of estrogen to investigate the effect of estrogen on primordial follicle activation. The results demonstrated that estrogen regulated the protein expression of cAMP synthase adenylyl cyclase 3 (ADCY3) through the membrane receptor G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER), increased the level of cAMP in the ovary, and activated the cAMP-PKA signaling pathway to promote the activation of primordial follicles. This study revealed the regulatory role of perinatal estrogen levels on primordial follicle formation and activation before and after birth, which would help to better understand the potential physiological effect of estrogen in vivo. Show less
Lipid metabolism abnormalities and inflammation have been implicated in gallstone disease (GSD) development, but the causal relationships and potential mediation effects among lipid metabolites, infla Show more
Lipid metabolism abnormalities and inflammation have been implicated in gallstone disease (GSD) development, but the causal relationships and potential mediation effects among lipid metabolites, inflammatory factors, and GSD remain unclear. The aim of this study is to explore the causal relationships among these 3 factors. This study employed 2-sample Mendelian Randomization (TSMR) and 2-step MR to investigate the causal relationships and potential mediation effects among 91 inflammatory factors, 6 lipid metabolism-related molecules (HDL-C, LDL-C, TG, total cholesterol, ApoA1, and ApoB), and GSD. We opted for 4 distinct MR analysis methods including inverse variance weighted method, weighted median method, MR-Egger regression method and MR-PRESSO analysis. Sensitivity analyses included MR-Egger intercept tests, Cochran's Q statistic, Steiger tests, and leave-one-out analyses. Product of coefficients method was used to estimate mediation proportion. TSMR analysis revealed that every 1-unit increase in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), total cholesterol (TC), apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1), and apolipoprotein B (ApoB), the risk of GSD decreased by 16.5%, 10.2%, 8.4%, and 13.1%, respectively. Inflammatory factors such as Natural killer cell receptor 2B4 (CD244), Macrophage colony-stimulating factor 1 (CSF-1), and interleukin-18 receptor 1 (IL-18R1) were identified as risk factors for GSD, while Fibroblast growth factor 19 levels (FGF19), Interleukin-1-alpha levels (IL-1α), and Interleukin-8 levels (IL-8) were found to be protective. Mediation analysis through 2-step MR identified potential pathways involving ApoA1--IL-8--GSD (P = .084) and IL-1α--ApoB--GSD (P = .117). This study provides robust evidence of causal links between specific lipid metabolites and GSD, as well as suggestive causal associations for several inflammatory factors. However, mediation analysis did not support significant roles for lipids or inflammatory factors as mediators in GSD pathogenesis. Future research could be further pursued in areas such as drug target intervention and mechanistic studies. Show less
Yu Zhang, Gang Jiang, Wenrong Feng+4 more · 2025 · Comparative biochemistry and physiology. Part A, Molecular & integrative physiology · Elsevier · added 2026-04-24
The effects of starvation and re-feeding on Jian carp (Cyprinus carpio var. Jian) remain incompletely understood. This study investigated changes in growth performance, liver antioxidant capacity, int Show more
The effects of starvation and re-feeding on Jian carp (Cyprinus carpio var. Jian) remain incompletely understood. This study investigated changes in growth performance, liver antioxidant capacity, intestinal morphology, fatty acid profile, and expression of genes related to lipid metabolism. Juvenile C. carpio var. Jian, with initial body weight of 29.50 ± 2.00 g, were reared in 15 cylindrical culture barrels (200L) at a stocking density of 10 fish per barrel. These fish were subjected to five feeding regimes: a continuous feeding group (control group, treatment A), complete fasting (treatment B), 1, 2, and 3 days starvation within one week, followed by re-feeding 6 days (treatment C), 5 days (treatment D), and 4 days (treatment E). The results indicated significantly lower growth performance in C. carpio var. Jian in treatments B and E compared to the control and treatment C (P < 0.05). Intestinal length (only 627 ± 13.14 μm in treatment B) was significantly reduced, and an increase in vacuoles was observed in C. carpio var. Jian with the prolonged starvation. Antioxidant enzyme activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were significantly (P < 0.05) improved in treatment C when compared with treatments B, D and E.. In contrast, malondialdehyde (MDA) value was lowest (12.62 ± 0.60 nmol/mL) in treatment B. Furthermore, continuous starvation significantly decreased the total lipid and fatty acids contents in the muscle (P < 0.05). Compared with the control group, the reduction of total lipid and fatty acids contents was 31.53 % and 4.57 %, respectively, particularly affecting n3PUFA and n6PUFA. However, after one-day re-feeding, these contents resumed. Lipid metabolism is closely related to fish health, while in the current study, the genes related to lipid metabolism including lipoprotein lipase (LPL), 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase (G6PD), and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα) did not differ significantly in treatment C compared to the control group (P > 0.05). In contrast, expressions in treatments B, D, and E were significantly reduced (P < 0.05). Taken together, prolonged starvation (>one day per week) not only affected the growth, which may further disrupt the intestinal structure, weaken antioxidant capacity, but also attenuate lipid deposition. Show less
Chronic stress disrupts neuroendocrine regulation, neurotransmitter balance, and neuronal redox homeostasis, thereby contributing to the development of anxiety-related neuropathology. Arecoline, the p Show more
Chronic stress disrupts neuroendocrine regulation, neurotransmitter balance, and neuronal redox homeostasis, thereby contributing to the development of anxiety-related neuropathology. Arecoline, the predominant alkaloid of Show less
Hereditary multiple exostoses (HME) is an autosomal dominant skeletal disorder primarily linked with mutations in Exostosin-1 (EXT1) and Exostosin-2 (EXT2) genes. However, not all HME cases can be exp Show more
Hereditary multiple exostoses (HME) is an autosomal dominant skeletal disorder primarily linked with mutations in Exostosin-1 (EXT1) and Exostosin-2 (EXT2) genes. However, not all HME cases can be explained by these mutations, and its pathogenic mechanisms are not fully understood. Herein, utilizing whole-exome sequencing and genetic screening with a family trio design, we identify two novel rare mutations co-segregating with HME in a Chinese family, including a nonsense mutation (c.204G>A, p.Trp68*) in EXT1 and a missense mutation (c.893T>G, p.Phe298Cys) in FUT7. Functional assays reveal that the FUT7 mutation affects the cellular localization of FUT7 protein and regulates cell proliferation. Notably, the simultaneous loss of fut7 and ext1 in a zebrafish model results in severe chondrodysplasia, indicating a functional link between FUT7 and EXT1 in chondrocyte regulation. Additionally, we unveil that FUT7 p.Phe298Cys reduces EXT1 expression through IL6/STAT3/SLUG axis at the transcription level and through ubiquitination-related proteasomal degradation at the protein level. Together, our findings not only identify novel germline mutations in FUT7 and EXT1 genes, but also highlight the critical interaction between these genes, suggesting a potential 'second-hit' mechanism over EXT1 mutations in HME pathogenesis. This insight enhances our understanding of the mechanisms underlying HME and opens new avenues for potential therapeutic interventions. Show less
The feeding rhythm is a major temporal regulator of metabolic physiology, yet its impact on microbiome-derived functional traits relevant to cardiometabolic disease remains insufficiently understood. Show more
The feeding rhythm is a major temporal regulator of metabolic physiology, yet its impact on microbiome-derived functional traits relevant to cardiometabolic disease remains insufficiently understood. Our previous work demonstrated that ad libitum, daytime-restricted, and nighttime-restricted feeding produce markedly different atherosclerotic outcomes in Apoe Show less
Chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) affects chicken immune system and welfare, causing huge losses of growth performance and welfare. Resveratrol (RSV), an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory natur Show more
Chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) affects chicken immune system and welfare, causing huge losses of growth performance and welfare. Resveratrol (RSV), an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory natural plant polyphenol, is widely used for the prevention of stress related disease. The aim of this study is to explore the therapeutic effect of RSV on spleen damage in CUMS. We successfully constructed a CUMS model. A total of 288 healthy one-day-old chicks were used in this study and were divided in 3 groups, control, CUMS and CUMS+RSV group. During 42 days of age, spleen tissue samples were collected and analyzed. Transmission electron microscope (TEM), Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, immunofluorescence, qRT- PCR, Western blots, immunohistochemical staining and RNA- sequencing (RNA-seq) technology was used to determine any changes and analyzed the mRNA and enrichment pathways. Histopathology and ultrastructure showed there was a severe damage of tissues. The results of RNA-seq showed that a total of 206, 267 and 211 DEGs were identified (log2 Fold Change| >1, P < 0.05) in control -vs- CUMS group, CUMS -vs- CUMS+RSV group and control -vs- CUMS+RSV group, respectively. Through Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis of the SDEGs, two immune/stress- related pathways including PPAR signaling pathway and neuroactive ligand receptor interaction were selected. The genes related to PPAR signaling pathway identified were PLIN1, MMP1, ANGPTL4 and FABP4 and Neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction genes were GRPR, NTSR1, KNG1 and AGT. The PLIN1, MMP1, ANGPTL4, FABP4, GRPR, KNG1 and AGT were up regulated and NTSR1 was down regulated in CUMS group. When compared to CUMS -vs- CUMS+RSV group, PLIN1, FABP4, KNG1 and AGT were down regulated genes and NTSR1 was up regulated gene. Taken together, KEGG pathway analyses of DEGs, verified by qRT-PCR and Western blots, the current study suggested that these data reveal the promising role of RSV in the prevention and therapy of a wide variety of tissue damage and PPAR signaling pathway, neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction in chronic unpredictable mild stress. Show less
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder and the leading cause of dementia, with current therapies offering only limited symptomatic relief and lacking disease-modifying ef Show more
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder and the leading cause of dementia, with current therapies offering only limited symptomatic relief and lacking disease-modifying efficacy. Addressing this critical therapeutic gap, natural multi-target compounds like mulberroside A (MsA)-a bioactive glycoside from Show less
Inhibition of branched-chain ketoacid dehydrogenase kinase (BDK or BCKDK), a negative regulator of branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) metabolism, is hypothesized to treat cardio-metabolic diseases. From Show more
Inhibition of branched-chain ketoacid dehydrogenase kinase (BDK or BCKDK), a negative regulator of branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) metabolism, is hypothesized to treat cardio-metabolic diseases. From a starting point with potential idiosyncratic toxicity risk, modification to a benzothiophene core and discovery of a cryptic pocket allowed for improved potency with 3-aryl substitution to arrive at PF-07328948, which was largely devoid of protein covalent binding liability. This BDK inhibitor was shown also to be a BDK degrader in cells and in vivo rodent studies. Plasma biomarkers, including BCAAs and branched-chain ketoacids (BCKAs), were lowered in vivo with enhanced pharmacodynamic effect upon chronic dosing due to BDK degradation. This molecule improves metabolic and heart failure end points in rodent models. PF-07328948 is the first known selective BDK inhibitor candidate to be examined in clinical studies, with Phase 1 single ascending dose data showing good tolerability and a pharmacokinetic profile commensurate with once-daily dosing. Show less
Accumulation of various genetics and epigenetics alterations are accepted to result in the initiation and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and its high metastasis is viewed as a critical Show more
Accumulation of various genetics and epigenetics alterations are accepted to result in the initiation and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and its high metastasis is viewed as a critical bottleneck leading to its treatment failure. Amongst them, the microRNAs arising from the lack of the antioxidant transcription factor Nrf2 lead to cancer metastasis. However, much less is known about the regulation of microRNAs by Nrf1, even though it acts as an essential determinon of cell homoeostasis by governing the transcriptional expression of those driver genes contributing to the EMT involved in its metastasis. In this study, distinct EMT phenotypes resulted from specific knockouts of Nrf1 and Nrf2 in HepG2 cells, as accompanied by their differential migratory and invasive capabilities. The Show less
Glucose homeostasis, essential for metabolic health, requires coordinated insulin and glucagon activity to maintain blood glucose balance. Dysregulation of glucose homeostasis causes hyperglycaemia an Show more
Glucose homeostasis, essential for metabolic health, requires coordinated insulin and glucagon activity to maintain blood glucose balance. Dysregulation of glucose homeostasis causes hyperglycaemia and glucose intolerance, hallmark features of type 2 diabetes. While SEC16 homologue B (SEC16B), an endoplasmic reticulum export factor, has been linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes and lipid metabolism, its role in glucose regulation remains poorly defined. This study aims to investigate SEC16B's contribution to glucose homeostasis by systematically dissecting its conserved physiological mechanisms across species. To interrogate SEC16B's role, we combined Drosophila genetics (RNA interference-mediated dSec16 knockdown) with murine models (Sec16b deletion) under standard or high-fat diet conditions. Glucose and insulin tolerance tests assessed glucose homeostasis. Mechanistic insights into beta cell dysfunction were derived from immunostaining, glucose-stimulated insulin secretion assays and RNA-seq profiling of murine pancreatic islets. Both disruption of dSec16 in Drosophila and Sec16b deletion in mice triggered glucose intolerance under standard diet conditions, recapitulating conserved metabolic dysfunction. In addition, Sec16b loss impaired glycaemic control in mice fed a high-fat diet. Mechanistically, Sec16b deficiency impairs insulin secretion by downregulating cholinergic signalling and compromising intracellular Ca Our study reveals SEC16B, a genome-wide association study-identified obesity risk gene, as an evolutionarily conserved regulator of glucose homeostasis. By linking SEC16B to cholinergic-driven insulin secretion and calcium dynamics, we resolve a mechanistic gap in beta cell dysfunction and metabolic disease. This finding provides novel insights into the mechanisms underlying glucose homeostasis and may enhance our understanding of potential treatments for metabolic diseases. Show less
Panax notoginseng saponin (PNS) has a variety of biological activities, such as improvement of myocardial ischemia, improvement of learning and memory, hypolipidemia, and immunomodulation. However, it Show more
Panax notoginseng saponin (PNS) has a variety of biological activities, such as improvement of myocardial ischemia, improvement of learning and memory, hypolipidemia, and immunomodulation. However, its protective mechanism on the central nervous system (CNS) is not clear. The present study initially evaluated the possible mechanism of PNS to improve cognitive dysfunction due to chronic sleep deprivation (CSD). In the present study, we used a modified multi-platform aquatic environment sleep deprivation method to induce a cognitively impaired rat model, and explored the mechanism of action of PNS by integrating serum metabolomics and network pharmacology, which was further verified by molecular docking and experiments. The results showed that PNS significantly shortened the escape latency, increased the target quadrant time and the number of traversing platforms, and attenuated the inflammatory damage in the hippocampal Cornu Ammonis 1 (CA1) region in CSD rats. The non-targeted metabolomics results indicated that 35 biomarkers significantly altered following PNS therapy intervention, with metabolic pathways enriched for the effects of One carbon pool by folate, Riboflavin metabolism, Glycerophospholipid metabolism, Sphingolipid metabolism, Glycerolipid metabolism, Arachidonic acid metabolism, and Tryptophan metabolism. In addition, network pharmacology identified 234 potential targets for PNS intervention in CSD with cognitive impairment. Metabolite-response-enzyme-gene network was constructed by MetaScape and matched with the network pharmacology results to identify a total of five shared targets (LPL, GPAM, HSD11B1, HSD11B2, and SULT2A1) and two metabolic pathways (Sphingolipid metabolism and Steroid hormone biosynthesis). The results of molecular docking revealed that the five active ingredients had good binding ability with the five core targets. qPCR analysis confirmed the ability of PNS to modulate the above five targets. The combination of metabolomics and network analysis provides a scientific basis for promoting the clinical application of PNS in cognitive impairment. Show less