Yiming Li, Wenxin Zou, Yan Zhang+5 more · 2026 · Phytomedicine : international journal of phytotherapy and phytopharmacology · Elsevier · added 2026-04-24
Atherosclerosis (AS) is a chronic disease characterized by lipid deposition in the vascular intima. As the pathological basis of cardiovascular diseases, AS represents a major contributor to global mo Show more
Atherosclerosis (AS) is a chronic disease characterized by lipid deposition in the vascular intima. As the pathological basis of cardiovascular diseases, AS represents a major contributor to global morbidity and mortality. While Gualou Huoxue Jiedu Decoction (GHJD) has been widely used in clinical practice for the treatment of AS, the molecular mechanisms remain unclear. To investigate the anti-atherosclerotic effects and underlying mechanisms of GHJD. Apoe GHJD alleviated plaque formation, improved lipid metabolism, and suppressed inflammation in vivo. Multi-omics analysis revealed that DNA methylation of Mfap4 could be a pivotal target of GHJD efficacy. In vitro assays confirmed that GHJD suppressed Mfap4 transcription and translation, leading to downregulation of integrin receptor family expression and inhibition of VSMC phenotypic switching. GHJD exerts anti-atherosclerotic effects through epigenetic modulation of Mfap4 and downstream integrin/FAK signaling pathway, thereby inhibiting VSMC phenotypic switching. These findings provide pharmacological evidence supporting GHJD as a potential therapy for AS and, for the first time, validate MFAP4 as a pharmacological target, offering new insights into AS prevention and treatment. Show less
Haojie Ni, Yiyi Xiong, Min Liu+14 more · 2026 · Phytomedicine : international journal of phytotherapy and phytopharmacology · Elsevier · added 2026-04-24
The pathological mechanism of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is complex. The binding of Aβ to α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR) contributes to neuronal damage. Sinomenine (SIN) is an alkaloid ex Show more
The pathological mechanism of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is complex. The binding of Aβ to α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR) contributes to neuronal damage. Sinomenine (SIN) is an alkaloid extracted from the traditional Chinese medicine Qingfengteng (Sinomenium acutum). The anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory effects of SIN were confirmed to be closely associated with the α7nAChR. This study aimed to investigate whether α7nAChR serves as a pharmacological target of SIN against AD, and to evaluate the neuroprotective effects of SIN both in vivo and in vitro, focusing on the α7nAChR/Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway. In this study, the effects of SIN in both APP/PS1 transgenic mice and SH-SY5Y cells subjected to Aβ1-42-induced injury were assessed. The selective antagonist α-bungarotoxin (α-BTX), the agonist nicotine (Nic) of α7nAChR, and α7nAChR siRNA were employed. The cognitive function, Aβ deposition, synaptic plasticity markers, the tau protein phosphorylation, mitochondrial membrane potential, oxidative stress and the α7nAChR/Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway were analyzed in vivo and/or in vitro. SIN significantly enhanced learning and memory abilities in APP/PS1 mice, reduced Aβ plaque deposition and synaptic dysfunction, and inhibited hyperphosphorylation of tau protein and oxidative stress in the brain. In Aβ1-42-induced neuronal injury model, SIN alleviated apoptosis, increased BDNF and ACh levels, inhibited mitochondrial damage, stabilized calcium homeostasis, and suppressed oxidative stress. Meanwhile, SIN disrupted Nrf2-Keap1 binding to promote the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway. Nevertheless, SIN effects above were inhibited by α-BTX. The knockdown of α7nAChR in vitro significantly promoted Nrf2/HO-1 pathway and BDNF expression. SIN exerts neuroprotective effect in APP/PS1 transgenic mice and Aβ1-42-induced neuronal injury by inhibiting oxidative stress via α7nAChR/Nrf2/Keap1 pathway. This study provides evidence for α7nAChR as a new target and the clinical application potential of SIN in AD treatment. Show less
Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a major global health challenge, underscoring the need for reliable biomarkers to improve prognosis and therapeutic stratification. In this study, we comprehensively in Show more
Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a major global health challenge, underscoring the need for reliable biomarkers to improve prognosis and therapeutic stratification. In this study, we comprehensively investigated the expression pattern, clinical significance, molecular functions, and immunological implications of LINGO1 in CRC. Integrative analyses of TCGA and GEO datasets, together with validation in 72 clinical CRC samples, demonstrated that LINGO1 is markedly overexpressed in tumors and strongly associated with advanced clinicopathological features and poor patient outcomes. Functional experiments revealed that both knockdown of LINGO1 in SW480 and LoVo cells and overexpression of LINGO1 in HCT116 cells significantly modulate malignant phenotypes, including proliferation, migration, invasion, and angiogenic capacity. Transcriptome-wide and pathway enrichment analyses further indicated that high LINGO1 expression is linked to epithelial-mesenchymal transition, angiogenesis, Wnt/β-catenin signaling, and other oncogenic pathways. Immunogenomic profiling, supported by multiplex immunofluorescence staining, showed that elevated LINGO1 is associated with an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment characterized by reduced CD8⁺ T-cell infiltration and diminished GZMB expression, alongside upregulation of multiple immune checkpoint molecules. Collectively, our findings identify LINGO1 as a novel oncogenic driver and immune-modulatory biomarker in colorectal cancer, with potential value for prognosis and therapeutic targeting. Show less
This study aimed to analyze the clinical features, genetic basis, and management of late-onset carbamoyl phosphate synthetase 1 deficiency (CPS1D) through a pediatric case report and literature review Show more
This study aimed to analyze the clinical features, genetic basis, and management of late-onset carbamoyl phosphate synthetase 1 deficiency (CPS1D) through a pediatric case report and literature review, highlighting diagnostic challenges and therapeutic strategies. We present a 19-year-old female with recurrent neurological symptoms since age 8. She underwent comprehensive metabolic screening, neuroimaging, and whole-exome sequencing of theCPS1gene. Identified variants were assessed for pathogenicity using multiple orthogonalin silicoprediction tools. The patient's initial hyperammonemic crisis at age 8 was misdiagnosed as encephalitis. Workup at age 13 confirmed hyperammonemia (peak 168 µmol/L), hypocitrullinemia, and elevated glutamine. Genetic analysis identified compound heterozygousCPS1variants: a novel c.1058 T > C (p.F353S) and known pathogenic c.1145C > T (p.P382L). A self-selected low-protein diet controlled acute crises but led to severe growth failure (height 145 cm, weight 30 kg). Late-onset CPS1D's nonspecific neurological symptoms often lead to misdiagnosis. Diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion, integrating metabolic profiling with genetic confirmation. This case expands the pathogenic genotypic spectrum of CPS1D. It crucially highlights that while dietary management is life-saving, it requires expert multidisciplinary oversight to prevent devastating consequences like growth failure, especially in resource-limited settings. Routine ammonia testing in unexplained encephalopathy is paramount. Show less
Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] has been recognized as a genetically determined and independent contributor to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. However, its role in lower extremity arterial disease (LEA Show more
Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] has been recognized as a genetically determined and independent contributor to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. However, its role in lower extremity arterial disease (LEAD) among individuals with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) remains insufficiently studied. Given the overlapping metabolic disturbances in both conditions, such as insulin resistance and lipid abnormalities, a potential relationship between Lp(a) and peripheral vascular injury in MASLD is biologically plausible. This study aimed to investigate the cross-sectional association between circulating Lp(a) concentrations and the presence of LEAD in a well-characterized MASLD population. A total of 468 MASLD patients undergoing routine health check-ups were included. Lp(a) levels were stratified into three categories: <10 mg/dL, 10–30 mg/dL, and ≥ 30 mg/dL. LEAD was diagnosed using duplex ultrasonography. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess the relationship between Lp(a) levels and the presence of LEAD, with adjustments for demographic variables, metabolic conditions, and lipid-related parameters. Subgroup analyses were conducted to assess potential effect modification. LEAD was diagnosed in 61.5% ( Elevated Lp(a) levels were associated with a higher prevalence of LEAD in patients with MASLD. Although the magnitude of association per unit increase was modest, higher Lp(a) concentrations were associated with greater LEAD prevalence. These findings should be interpreted cautiously and viewed as hypothesis-generating, particularly with respect to subgroup analyses. Prospective studies are needed to clarify causality and clinical relevance. The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12872-026-05600-7. Show less
COG133, a peptide fragment derived from apolipoprotein E (ApoE) corresponding to residues 133-149, has demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective activity. However, its precise ant Show more
COG133, a peptide fragment derived from apolipoprotein E (ApoE) corresponding to residues 133-149, has demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective activity. However, its precise anti-inflammatory mechanisms and its potential to ameliorate depression-like behaviors remain incompletely understood. This study investigated the effects of COG133 in mouse models of depression induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), chronic social defeat stress (CSDS), and corticosterone (CORT), as well as in LPS-stimulated BV-2 microglial cells. We found that COG133 treatment significantly alleviated depression-like phenotypes and suppressed hippocampal neuroinflammation by inhibiting microglial overactivation. Using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and biochemical validation, we identified the MKK3/6-p38-ATF2 signaling axis as a central mechanism underlying the anti-inflammatory effects of COG133. Pharmacological modulation of p38 MAPK further confirmed that this pathway is essential for COG133-mediated behavioral and cellular recovery. Together, these findings identify COG133 as a promising peptide candidate for the treatment of depression through modulation of the p38 MAPK-mediated neuroinflammation axis. Show less
Atherosclerosis (AS) is a prevalent typical chronic inflammation disease characterised by lipid deposition, immune cell infiltration and inflammatory response in the arterial intima. The long-term tre Show more
Atherosclerosis (AS) is a prevalent typical chronic inflammation disease characterised by lipid deposition, immune cell infiltration and inflammatory response in the arterial intima. The long-term treatments of the existing drugs suffered safety concerns. Show less
Caloric restriction (CR) improves metabolic health and reduces the risk of aging-related vascular diseases. However, the systematic metabolic reprogramming associated with CR remains unclear. To addre Show more
Caloric restriction (CR) improves metabolic health and reduces the risk of aging-related vascular diseases. However, the systematic metabolic reprogramming associated with CR remains unclear. To address this, we performed multi-tissue metabolomic profiling (liver, heart, and serum) in apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE-/-) mice subjected to CR. Metabolomic analyses of the multiple tissues revealed that glycerophospholipid metabolism pathway was consistently modulated by CR. To explore its relevance in vascular diseases, we performed serum metabolomic profiling in an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) model induced by angiotensin Ⅱ (AngⅡ) infusion in ApoE-/- mice. The level of lysophosphatidylethanolamine (LPE) (16:0/0:0), a metabolite in the glycerophospholipid metabolism pathway, was elevated during AAA progression and significantly reduced by CR intervention, suggesting its potential as a vascular disease risk factor. Notably, glycerophospholipid metabolism and LPE (16:0) were significantly associated with vascular diseases and aging-related indicators in human multi-omics data, including public transcriptomic and lipidomic, and our serum multi-omics profiling of 76 healthy aged individuals. Collectively, our findings establish glycerophospholipid metabolism and LPE (16:0) as systemic signatures of CR with diagnostic potential. They highlight a crucial link between systemic metabolism and vascular remodeling and remodeling-associated vascular diseases, while also functioning as indicators of systemic aging. Show less
Acute kidney injury (AKI), a critical clinical syndrome marked by high incidence and mortality, is currently diagnosed mainly by serum creatinine (SCr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN), which have high m Show more
Acute kidney injury (AKI), a critical clinical syndrome marked by high incidence and mortality, is currently diagnosed mainly by serum creatinine (SCr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN), which have high miss rates. This study innovatively proposes using urinary hydrogen peroxide (H Show less
The abuse of methamphetamine (METH) is associated with an increased risk of Parkinson's disease (PD), whereas microglial polarization and glucose metabolism disorders are closely related to the progre Show more
The abuse of methamphetamine (METH) is associated with an increased risk of Parkinson's disease (PD), whereas microglial polarization and glucose metabolism disorders are closely related to the progression of PD. This study aimed to investigate the specific molecular mechanism underlying the promotion of PD progression by METH through the regulation of microglial polarization and glycolysis. METH-induced C57BL/6 mice and BV2 cells were used to construct PD-like neurotoxicity animal and cell models for experimental investigation. Behavioral tests, immunohistochemistry and Nissl staining were used to assess the behavioral ability and neuronal damage of the animals. The levels of related proteins, inflammatory cytokines and glycolysis were detected using immunofluorescence, ELISA, Western blotting, and CCK-8 assays. METH treatment significantly promoted behavioral disorders in PD mice, reduced the number of TH-positive neurons, and aggravated neuronal damage in the substantia nigra (SN). In addition, METH decreased the M2 marker proteins Arg-1 and CD206 and increased the M1 marker proteins iNOS and CD86; the proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-β, and IL-6; and glucose uptake, glucose consumption and lactic acid production, thus promoting M1 polarization and glycolytic activity in BV2 cells. In terms of the underlying molecular mechanism, METH treatment significantly increased the level of LPA. METH promotes LPA expression via upregulation of LIPH expression, and activates the PI3K/AKT pathway. Knockdown of LIPH or treatment with BrP-LPA reduces the ability of METH to promote M1 microglial polarization and glycolytic activity. Furthermore, the addition of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway activator 740 YP weakened the inhibitory effect of BrP-LPA on the above process. METH may promote M1 polarization and glycolytic activity in microglia by activating LIPH/LPA/PI3K/AKT signaling, thus promoting the progression of PD. Show less
Alzheimer' s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by a spectrum of cognitive impairments, ranging from mild memory loss to severe cognitive decline and, ultimately, d Show more
Alzheimer' s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by a spectrum of cognitive impairments, ranging from mild memory loss to severe cognitive decline and, ultimately, death. The global incidence of AD is projected to increase significantly, with late-onset AD being predominantly sporadic in nature. Over the past three decades, the Apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene has been recognized as the most important single genetic determinant of sporadic AD risk. The APOE4 allele is a major risk factor for AD and is known to exacerbate the pathological process for AD. Identifying protective variants that may reduce the risk or delay the onset of AD is of great significance for the development of effective treatments. This review comprehensively examines the protective effects of APOE and its related protective mutations. It also explores the impact of these unique protective variants at the cellular level during the pathological progression of AD. Furthermore, the review compiles new insights for AD treatment offered by these protective mutations, exploring the potential applications of APOE and its related protective variants in advanced therapeutic strategies, including gene editing, RNA editing, and stem cell therapy. Show less
Hypertrophic scar (HS) is a fibroproliferative disorder characterized by fibroblast hyperactivation and aberrant extracellular matrix deposition. This study identifies macrophage-derived lactate as a Show more
Hypertrophic scar (HS) is a fibroproliferative disorder characterized by fibroblast hyperactivation and aberrant extracellular matrix deposition. This study identifies macrophage-derived lactate as a key mediator of fibroblast phenotypic remodeling via monocarboxylate transporter 1 (MCT1)-mediated histone H3 lysine 23 lactylation (H3K23la) in HS. Elevated lactate levels and MCT1 expression were observed in HS tissues, with macrophages in stiff mechanical microenvironments identified as the primary lactate source. Lactate influx through MCT1 upregulated H3K23la, thereby promoting transcriptional activation of profibrotic genes HEY2 and COL11A1. Mechanistically, HEY2 activated YAP1/SMAD2 signaling, while COL11A1 stabilized MCT1 to enhance lactate transport, forming a positive loop that amplified fibrosis. Fibroblast-specific Mct1 deletion or pharmacological inhibition of Mct1 in male mice reduced collagen deposition, accelerated wound healing, and attenuated scar formation. Our findings redefine the macrophage-fibroblast crosstalk in HS and establish the MCT1-H3K23la-HEY2/COL11A1 axis, particularly its self-reinforcing loop, as a novel therapeutic target. Show less
Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are key microbial metabolites that support intestinal and skeletal development, yet their coordinated effects during early life remain poorly defined. In this study, ne Show more
Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are key microbial metabolites that support intestinal and skeletal development, yet their coordinated effects during early life remain poorly defined. In this study, neonatal mice were administered SCFAs for 28 days to evaluate their impacts on growth, intestinal barrier integrity, immune modulation, bone development, and gut microbiota composition. Valerate supplementation significantly increased body weight and intestinal length. It enhanced the villus structure, crypt depth, and goblet cell number, alongside upregulation of tight junction and mucin genes, indicating improved barrier function. Valerate and propionate also promoted the expression of interleukin-4 (IL-4) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) and reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines, suggesting an immunomodulatory shift. In the skeletal system, valerate improved the microarchitecture, increased bone mineral density (BMD), and upregulated osteogenic genes runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FGFR1), and growth hormone receptor (GHR). Microbiota profiling showed enrichment of several genera ( Show less
We report the discovery of a chemical series that enhances ApoE secretion from human astrocytes through mechanisms independent of LXR agonism. Target deconvolution of hits from a phenotypic screen in Show more
We report the discovery of a chemical series that enhances ApoE secretion from human astrocytes through mechanisms independent of LXR agonism. Target deconvolution of hits from a phenotypic screen in astrocytoma cells employed chemoproteomics, photoaffinity probes, in vitro KINOMEscan analysis, and targeted siRNA knockdown experiments. Photoaffinity labeling coupled with quantitative chemical proteomics identified aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), a transcription factor not previously associated with ApoE secretion, as the primary target. A diverse panel of AhR agonists and antagonists together with genetic knockdown confirmed that ApoE secretion increases when AhR activity is reduced. Using a luciferase reporter assay, we demonstrated that active series analogs exhibit AhR antagonism while inactive compounds do not. Since deletion of AhR has severe peripheral effects, chronic inhibition of AhR is not an attractive therapeutic approach for Alzheimer's disease; nevertheless, these results position AhR as a modulator of ApoE secretion and a biological pathway worth exploring. Show less
High-density lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) is a well-established independent risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVD). However, the interaction between Lp(a), low-density lipoprotein c Show more
High-density lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) is a well-established independent risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVD). However, the interaction between Lp(a), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and polygenic risk score (PRS) in cardiovascular diseases has been the subject of relatively limited research. The present study included a total of 346,751 participants from the UK Biobank. According to the guideline of Lp(a), the study subjects were divided into 3 groups: the first group was <75 mmol/L (n = 272,643), the second group was 75 to 125 mmol/L (n = 35,792), and the third group was >125 mmol/L (n = 38,316). Elevated Lp(a) levels were associated with a progressively increased risk of overall cardiovascular events (CVEs), including ischemic stroke (IS), coronary heart disease (CHD), angina pectoris, and myocardial infarction (MI). In contrast, the risks of atrial fibrillation (AF) and heart failure (HF) decreased with higher Lp(a) levels. Additive interaction analyses revealed significant synergistic effects between Lp(a) and LDL-C for CHD (relative excess risk interaction [RERI] = 0.081, attributable proportion of interaction [AP] = 0.046, synergy index [SI] = 1.117), angina pectoris (RERI = 0.112, AP = 0.055, SI = 1.121), and MI (RERI = 0.183, AP = 0.079, SI = 1.161), with MI showing the strongest synergy. Incorporating PRS further amplified these effects, and the RERI (CHD: RERI = 0.721; angina pectoris: RERI = 0.781; MI: RERI = 1.318) and SI (CHD: SI = 2.218; angina pectoris: SI = 1.97; MI: SI = 2.326) were significantly higher than those of the interaction model containing only Lp(a) and LDL-C. In conclusion, Lp(a) and LDL-C show a significant synergistic effect in ASCVD, and this effect is more prominent in individuals with a higher PRS, suggesting that dual lipid management should be strengthened for such populations. While AF and HF may require alternative risk factor management. Show less
Excessive fat deposition compromises the health of companion animals and the carcass quality of food-producing livestock. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) has been demonstrated to play a critical re Show more
Excessive fat deposition compromises the health of companion animals and the carcass quality of food-producing livestock. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) has been demonstrated to play a critical regulatory role in fat deposition, with its function dependent on binding to its cognate receptor (FSHR) in target organs. In this study, female Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were immunized with subunit vaccines targeting FSHβ and FSHR, respectively, and obesity was induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) to investigate the effects of these vaccines on adipose deposition in female mammals. The results revealed that active immunization against FSHβ and FSHR effectively suppressed HFD-induced obesity and the elevated serum triglyceride levels. Histological observations found that FSHβ and FSHR immunity decreased adipocyte hypertrophy and increased the cross-sectional area of skeletal muscle fibers caused by HFD, partially ameliorated HFD-associated hepatic sinusoidal spaces and vacuolated steatosis in the cytoplasm. RT-qPCR results indicated that FSHβ and FSHR immunization inhibited lipid synthesis by downregulating adipogenic-related genes, including C/ebpα, Creb, Pparγ, Lpl, and Perilipin. These findings suggest that both vaccines can mitigate HFD-induced adipose deposition in rats, with the FSHR vaccine exhibiting more pronounced effects. This study provides a novel strategy to mitigate pet health deterioration caused by excessive obesity and the decline in carcass quality of food-producing livestock. Show less
This study aims to demonstrate the effect of toadflax (bufalin) on erlotinib resistance in nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) by inhibiting the fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR). The microfluidi Show more
This study aims to demonstrate the effect of toadflax (bufalin) on erlotinib resistance in nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) by inhibiting the fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR). The microfluidic mobility transferase and caliper mobility-shift assays were employed to detect the FGFR inhibition by bufalin and the binding reversibility. Further, the inhibitory effects of bufalin were determined in HCC827 and HCC827/ER cells in vitro , investigating relative FGFR overexpression by quantitative reverse transcriptase-PCR (RT-qPCR) and FGFR downstream proteins, that is, FGFR substrate 2 (FRS2), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), and S6 by western blot analysis. Finally, HCC827/ER-inoculated xenograft tumors were constructed to observe the effects of bufalin and bufalin + erlotinib intervention on tumor growth. Bufalin inhibited FGFR by reversibly binding to FGFR1. In addition, the western blot analysis indicated a significant reduction in the expression levels of FGFR, FRS2, ERK, and S6 proteins in HCC827 and HCC827/ER cells, increasing the expression levels of apoptotic caspase-3 and poly-(ADP-ribose) polymerase proteins. Bufalin + erlotinib combination significantly inhibited the apoptosis of HCC827/ER cells and subsequent tumor growth in vivo . In addition, FGFR overexpression significantly reversed the sensitivity of bufalin to HCC827/ER cells, promoting the value-addition of HCC827/ER cells. Further, bufalin + erlotinib significantly reduced the growth of erlotinib-resistant HCC827/ER tumors, induced apoptosis, and inhibited the expression of FGFR and p-ERK proteins. These findings indicated that bufalin could reverse the erlotinib resistance in NSCLC by inhibiting the FGFR expression. Show less
Studies of surrogate decision-makers (SDMs) in the intensive care unit (ICU) often report high average levels of family decision-making self-efficacy (FDMSE). However, these findings contrast with the Show more
Studies of surrogate decision-makers (SDMs) in the intensive care unit (ICU) often report high average levels of family decision-making self-efficacy (FDMSE). However, these findings contrast with the significant decision conflict commonly observed in clinical practice. This discrepancy suggests that high aggregate FDMSE scores may mask underlying subgroups with distinct experiences. Identifying these latent profiles is essential for understanding the true experiences of ICU SDMs. This study aimed to identify distinct latent profiles of FDMSE among ICU SDMs and explore key influencing factors. A cross-sectional study was conducted among SDMs of ICU patients. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis (EFA/CFA) was performed to examine the factor structure of the Chinese FDMSE scale. The verified factor structure was then used for latent profile analysis (LPA). Lastly, univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify the main influencing factors. A total of 350 ICU SDMs were included in the analysis. The three-factor model, including treatment decision-making, comfort promotion decision-making, and facing death decision-making, provided a good fit for the Chinese FDMSE scale. Two profiles emerged: 'weak family decision-making self-efficacy', accounting for 55.9% of cases, and 'strong family decision-making self-efficacy', represented by the remaining 44.1%. The 'strong family decision-making self-efficacy' group was more likely to be observed in families where the patients held religious beliefs and were diagnosed with cancer, and where the family decision-makers held religious beliefs, had higher incomes, and had engaged in prior discussions about treatment preferences. This study verified the multi-dimensionality and heterogeneity of the FDMSE of ICU SDMs through EFA, CFA and LPA. The identification of a subgroup with low FDMSE differs from previous studies. Key modifiable factors include socio-economic resources, prior communication of the patients' preferences, and spiritual and cultural background, which serve as crucial levers for strengthening the decision-support framework in critical care settings. By identifying two distinct FDMSE profiles and key influencing factors, it offers critical care nurses a new perspective to design targeted interventions, thereby enhancing their ability to provide personalised decision support. Critical care nurses should receive structured end-of-life communication training to address the shared vulnerability of ICU SDMs in facing death decision-making self-efficacy across both profiles. Show less
Evidence proved that electroacupuncture (EA) combined with antidepressants can improve the antidepressant effectiveness for depressed patients. However, the clinical mechanisms of EA remain unclear. T Show more
Evidence proved that electroacupuncture (EA) combined with antidepressants can improve the antidepressant effectiveness for depressed patients. However, the clinical mechanisms of EA remain unclear. This study aimed to observe the mechanism of EA as an adjunct therapy to escitalopram oxalate (EO) on depressed patients. This study was designed as a single-blinded, double-dummy randomized controlled trial. 61 participants were diagnosed with mild-to-moderate depression according to the International Classification of Diseases 10th Edition (ICD-10, F32) were randomly allocated to receive EA + EO placebo, EO + sham EA, or EA + EO for six weeks treatment. The clinical assessment including depression severity, quality of life (QOL) and clinical safety. Biological indicators of immune-inflammation, the brain-derived neurotrophic factor and glucocorticoid inducible genes in peripheral blood of participants were measured by using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay and real-time polymerase chain reaction respectively before and after treatment. Three interventions improved the depression severity and QOL (P < 0.05), and no inter-group difference was found in the 6th week (P > 0.05). Anxiety psychic and somatic general symptoms in the EA + EO group were improved significantly than those of the other two groups (P < 0.05). After six-week treatment of EA + EO, blood SGK1 mRNA, GILZ mRNA, and BDNF levels were increased significantly ( Show less
Guangming Li, Yi Jin, Xiaowei Yuan+4 more · 2026 · Food and chemical toxicology : an international journal published for the British Industrial Biological Research Association · Elsevier · added 2026-04-24
Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) is a widely distributed endocrine-disrupting chemical with potential carcinogenic properties, yet its role in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSC) remains unclear. Here Show more
Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) is a widely distributed endocrine-disrupting chemical with potential carcinogenic properties, yet its role in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSC) remains unclear. Here, we applied an integrative framework combining network toxicology, Mendelian randomization (MR), multi-omics analyses, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations, and in vitro experiments to elucidate the mechanisms underlying DBP-associated HNSC. Lipoprotein lipase (LPL) was identified as the sole overlapping gene between DBP-related targets and HNSC-associated genes. MR analysis supported a potential causal relationship between LPL and HNSC susceptibility. Expression profiling demonstrated tissue- and cell type-specific patterns of LPL and its dysregulation in HNSC, with associations to tumor stage and prognosis. Genomic analyses revealed that LPL alterations were infrequent and mainly driven by copy number loss. LPL expression positively correlated with immune and stromal infiltration. Enrichment analyses implicated immune regulation and PI3K-AKT signaling. Molecular simulations showed stable DBP-LPL binding. Functionally, DBP promoted SCC9 proliferation and reduced LPL expression, and was associated with transcriptional changes in PI3K-AKT-mTOR-related genes, whereas LPL restoration mitigated these effects. These findings reveal a novel DBP-LPL axis in HNSC. Show less
Autophagy supports clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) progression, yet its upstream regulatory mechanisms remain to be fully defined. Integrating bulk, single-cell, and spatial transcriptomics, w Show more
Autophagy supports clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) progression, yet its upstream regulatory mechanisms remain to be fully defined. Integrating bulk, single-cell, and spatial transcriptomics, we identify a regulatory axis wherein the transcription factor ZBED6 activates the expression of the autophagy-initiating kinase PIK3C3 via the repression of IGF2, thereby driving pro-tumorigenic autophagy. Spatial analysis confirms the co-localization of ZBED6 and PIK3C3 in tumor tissues. Using genes associated with this axis, we develop a six-gene prognostic signature that stratifies patients with distinct survival outcomes and differential responses to immunotherapy and targeted therapy. Functional assays show that ZBED6 promotes ccRCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. This work elucidates a pathway governing autophagy in ccRCC and provides a framework for prognostic assessment and precision therapy. Show less
Keratoconus (KC) is a progressive disorder of corneal thinning characterized by responses in the extracellular matrix and cellular interactions. This study used bioinformatics methods to identify key Show more
Keratoconus (KC) is a progressive disorder of corneal thinning characterized by responses in the extracellular matrix and cellular interactions. This study used bioinformatics methods to identify key genes involved in KC development and in anoikis and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. KC and control datasets from the GEO database were analyzed to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). These were cross-referenced with anoikis and ER stress-related genes from Genecards. Functional enrichment, immune infiltration analysis, and machine learning techniques (LASSO, Random Forest) were used to identify candidate molecular signatures, which were then validated in an animal model. We identified 46 DEGs associated with anoikis and 41 DEGs related to ER stress. Functional analysis linked them to apoptosis and IL-17 signaling. Five key molecular signatures were identified: CDKN1A, MCL1, PTGS2, PTHLH, and ANGPTL4. The expression of ANGPTL4, CDKN1A, and MCL1 was consistent in the animal model. These genes are associated with inflammatory and oxidative stress responses. Twelve potential therapeutic drugs were predicted. This study identifies five candidate molecular signatures for KC related to anoikis and ER stress, offering insights into KC pathogenesis and potential targeted therapies. Show less
Atherosclerosis (AS) is a major underlying cause of cardiovascular diseases, with hypercholesterolemia, inflammatory responses, and macrophage polarization being established key contributors. The role Show more
Atherosclerosis (AS) is a major underlying cause of cardiovascular diseases, with hypercholesterolemia, inflammatory responses, and macrophage polarization being established key contributors. The roles of NLRP3 inflammasome activation and macrophage polarization in AS pathogenesis have garnered significant research interest. This study investigated the therapeutic potential of Schisandrol B (Sol B) against AS using an in vivo model of ApoE Show less
To determine the prevalence of CHD7, FGFR1 and ANOS1 variants and the impacts of their splicing variants on mis-splicing in patients with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH). Based on the w Show more
To determine the prevalence of CHD7, FGFR1 and ANOS1 variants and the impacts of their splicing variants on mis-splicing in patients with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH). Based on the whole-exome sequencing data from 280 CHH probands, we identified 15 potential splice-site variants in CHD7, ANOS1 and FGFR1 by using in silico software. The functional consequences of these variants were analyzed by the minigene assay or RT-PCR analyses of RNA taken from the peripheral lymphocytes. Detailed phenotyping was performed in the CHH patients harboring deleterious variants and their available family members. 11 out of 15 potential splice-site variants were demonstrated to cause mis-splicing, resulting in loss of function through deletion, insertion or frameshift of amino acids in the proteins. Most patients with deleterious splice-site variants in CHD7, ANOS1, FGFR1 presented with gene-specific non-reproductive phenotypes, confirming the pathogenic contribution of these variants to CHH. Our study indicated that splice-site variants in CHD7, ANOS1, FGFR1 underlie the genetic basis of ~3.9% of CHH patients, warranting the inclusion of potential splice-site variants for genetic diagnosis and counseling of CHH. Show less
Autophagy is integral to the rapid proliferation of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), and its regulation presents a promising avenue for therapeutic intervention. Recent studies have elucidat Show more
Autophagy is integral to the rapid proliferation of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), and its regulation presents a promising avenue for therapeutic intervention. Recent studies have elucidated the interplay between autophagy and glucose metabolism, while there is a paucity of anticancer drugs that concurrently target these 2 biological processes. In this study, we identified a natural compound, Show less
Dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonists have gained significant attention in clinical applications because of their remarkable efficacy in reducing obesity and type 2 diabetes. However, the mechanisms by whi Show more
Dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonists have gained significant attention in clinical applications because of their remarkable efficacy in reducing obesity and type 2 diabetes. However, the mechanisms by which these dual agonists affect systemic metabolism remain elusive. To investigate the effects of a novel dual-receptor agonist, THDBH120, on systemic metabolism in obese individuals and the specific roles of GIPR and GLP-1R in modulating systemic and adipose tissue metabolism. To evaluate the intrinsic properties of THDBH120, we conducted a potency assay by using HEK293 cell lines overexpressing either human GIPR or GLP-1R and measured the accumulation of cAMP as a downstream second messenger following receptor activation. To evaluate the efficacy of THDBH120 on systemic metabolism, we used obese rodents and nonhuman primate species that received various doses and frequencies of THDBH120. To determine the metabolic roles of GLP-1R and GIPR in mediating the beneficial effects of THDBH120, we used GLP-1R- and GIPR-knockout mouse models treated with THDBH120, the GLP-1R agonist semaglutide, or the GIPR agonist LAGIPRA and performed transcriptomic sequencing analyses of adipose tissues. THDBH120 is a novel long-acting dual GIPR/GLP-1R agonist that has superior weight loss and metabolic improvement effects in rodents and mammals. The activation of GLP-1R by semaglutide or THDBH120 improved lipid metabolism, whereas the activation of GIPR by LAGIPRA or THDBH120 alleviated inflammation. THDBH120 improved lipid metabolism via GLP-1R-mediated pathways and mitigated inflammation by activating GIPR-associated pathways in the adipose tissues of obese mice. Both GLP-1R and GIPR are important in mediating the beneficial effects of dual receptors on systemic metabolism. THDBH120 is a novel long-acting dual GIPR/GLP-1R agonist that has potential clinical applications. Show less
The present study aimed to investigate the combined impact of lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) subfractions on cardiovascular outcomes in patients with acute coronary syndrome Show more
The present study aimed to investigate the combined impact of lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) subfractions on cardiovascular outcomes in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The study enrolled 2061 ACS patients from Tianjin Chest Hospital. Participants were categorized into 4 groups based on their Lp(a) and the concentration of the sixth component particles of LDL(LDL-P6). The primary endpoint was the occurrence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). The relationship between LDL-P6, Lp(a), and MACE was evaluated. Over a mean follow-up period of 5.4 years, 456 (22.1%) patients experienced MACE. Multivariate analysis identified both LDL-P6 and Lp(a) as significant independent predictors of MACE in ACS patients. Those in the highest-risk group had a substantially higher incidence of MACE compared with the lowest-risk group (HR 5.718; 95% CI 3.703-8.829; Show less
After feeding carnivorous mandarin fish ( Compared to the easy-acclimation group (EA), the difficult-acclimation group (DA) exhibited significantly lower body weight and length ( The results of this s Show more
After feeding carnivorous mandarin fish ( Compared to the easy-acclimation group (EA), the difficult-acclimation group (DA) exhibited significantly lower body weight and length ( The results of this study indicate that the observed differences in growth performance post-acclimation are associated with the synergistic regulation of brain gene expression, host metabolites, and intestinal microbiota. These results elucidate key molecular mechanisms in the acclimation process of mandarin fish. The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12864-025-12446-4. Show less