Gallstone disease (GD) is a common gastrointestinal disorder with a significant genetic component. Despite known risk factors, the genetic basis of GD remains incompletely understood. We aimed to iden Show more
Gallstone disease (GD) is a common gastrointestinal disorder with a significant genetic component. Despite known risk factors, the genetic basis of GD remains incompletely understood. We aimed to identify novel genetic loci associated with GD, explore their clinical implications and investigate their therapeutic potential. We conducted a genome-wide association study from the UK Biobank followed by a meta-analysis, integrating summary statistics from the FinnGen R11, with further replication from Biobank Japan. Using systematic bioinformatic approaches, we performed gene prioritisation, colocalisation analysis, transcriptome-wide association study, Mendelian randomisations, cross-trait genetic correlations, phenome-wide association study, clinical investigations and gene-environment interactions by leveraging data from the FinnGen, Genotype-Tissue Expression project and Liver Cell Atlas single-cell transcriptomics data set. Our study highlighted novel susceptibility loci near candidate genes (ie, This study provides new insights into the genetic basis of GD and highlights the role of hepatocytes in GD pathogenesis. These findings have implications for the personalised prevention strategies and new therapeutic interventions in individuals predisposed to GD. Show less
One of the recognized effects of systematic physical activity is the improvement of physical fitness, with a negative correlation found between physical fitness and cardiovascular and cardiometabolic Show more
One of the recognized effects of systematic physical activity is the improvement of physical fitness, with a negative correlation found between physical fitness and cardiovascular and cardiometabolic risk. The purpose of this study is to analyze the influence of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the adenylate cyclase 3 ( In the 12-week HIIT program, a total of 237 Chinese Han college students with non-regular exercise habits were recruited, and these volunteers participated in the training three times a week. Baseline and after the HIIT program, total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) were measured, respectively. DNA was extracted from the white blood cells of volunteers and genotyping was carried out. The PLINK v1.09 software was used to conduct quality control screening on the obtained SNPs, and a linear regression model was constructed to analyze the association between (1) Through the analysis of Illumina CGA chip scanning, a total of 22 SNPs of the (1) The implementation of a 12-week HIIT regimen can significantly enhance the blood lipid status of college students. (2) The locus rs2241759 of the Show less
Twenty types of GABAergic interneurons form intricate networks to fine-tune neural circuits in the brain. Parvalbumin-positive (PV+) and somatostatin-positive (SST+) interneurons, which are the two la Show more
Twenty types of GABAergic interneurons form intricate networks to fine-tune neural circuits in the brain. Parvalbumin-positive (PV+) and somatostatin-positive (SST+) interneurons, which are the two largest populations of neocortical interneurons, innervate the soma and/or proximal dendrites, and distal dendrites of pyramidal neurons, respectively. Using PV- and SST-specific knockout mouse models, we show that PV+ interneurons require FGFR2, which responds to FGF7, to drive PV+ inhibitory presynaptic maturation on perisomatic regions of Layer V pyramidal neurons. In contrast, SST+ interneurons rely on both FGFR1 and FGFR2, which respond to FGF10 or FGF22, to promote SST+ inhibitory presynaptic maturation on distal dendrites of pyramidal neurons in cortical Layer I. Mechanistically, FGF-FGFR signaling sustains VGAT protein levels in interneurons through PP2A and Akt pathways. Together, these findings demonstrate that distinct FGF ligand-receptor combinations regulate inhibitory presynaptic differentiation by PV+ and SST+ interneurons, contributing to the formation of compartment-specific synaptic patterns. 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
ObjectivesThis study aimed to compare the effects of different exercise interventions on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in patients with neurodegenerative diseases and to explore regu Show more
ObjectivesThis study aimed to compare the effects of different exercise interventions on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in patients with neurodegenerative diseases and to explore regulatory factors.MethodsSearched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, CNKI and Cochrane Library databases up to March 15, 2025. Bayesian network meta-analysis was conducted using R software, and meta-regression analyzed the moderating effects of training period and frequency.Results42 randomized controlled trials covering 1482 patients were included. The Surface Under the Cumulative Ranking (SUCRA) indicated that stretching training (SUCRA = 78.92) and high-intensity interval training (SUCRA = 69.73) were ranked higher than other exercise modalities and exhibited more favorable effect on BDNF enhancement, although neither demonstrated statistically significant superiority over the blank control. In contrast, combined training (SUCRA = 35.58), aerobic training (SUCRA = 35.17), and resistance training (SUCRA = 12.98) showed relatively lower potential for BDNF enhancement (blank control SUCRA = 67.62). Meta-regression analysis showed that the effect of combined training was significantly and positively correlated with intervention period ( Show less
Axis inhibitor protein 1 (AXIN1) is a protein recognized for inhibiting tumor growth and is commonly involved in cancer development. In this study, we explored the potential molecular mechanisms that Show more
Axis inhibitor protein 1 (AXIN1) is a protein recognized for inhibiting tumor growth and is commonly involved in cancer development. In this study, we explored the potential molecular mechanisms that connect alternative splicing of AXIN1 to the metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Transcriptome sequencing, RT‒PCR, qPCR and Western blotting were utilized to determine the expression levels of AXIN1 in human HCC tissues and HCC cells. The effects of the AXIN1 exon 9 alternative splice isoform and SRSF9 on the migration and invasion of HCC cells were assessed through wound healing and Transwell assays, respectively. The interaction between SRSF9 and AXIN1 was investigated using UV crosslink RNA immunoprecipitation, RNA pulldown, and RNA immunoprecipitation assays. Furthermore, the involvement of the AXIN1 isoform and SRSF9 in HCC metastasis was validated in a nude mouse model. AXIN1-L (exon 9 including) expression was downregulated, while AXIN1-S (exon 9 skipping) was upregulated in HCC. SRSF9 promotes the production of AXIN1-S by interacting with the sequence of exons 8 and 10 of AXIN1. AXIN1-S significantly promoted HCC cells migration and invasion by activating the Wnt pathway, while the opposite effects were observed for AXIN1-L. In vivo experiments demonstrated that AXIN1-L inhibited HCC metastasis, whereas SRSF9 promoted HCC metastasis in part by regulating the level of AXIN1-S. AXIN1, a tumor suppressor protein that targets the AXIN1/Wnt/β-catenin signaling axis, may be a promising prognostic factor and a valuable therapeutic target for HCC. Show less
Previous studies have investigated the role of metabolic factors in risk of hematological malignancies with contradicting findings. Existing studies are generally limited by potential concern of rever Show more
Previous studies have investigated the role of metabolic factors in risk of hematological malignancies with contradicting findings. Existing studies are generally limited by potential concern of reverse causality and confounding by inflammation. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the associations of glucose, lipid, and apolipoprotein biomarkers with the risk of hematological malignancy. We performed a study of over 560,000 individuals of the Swedish AMORIS cohort, with measurements of biomarkers for carbohydrate, lipid, and apolipoprotein metabolism during 1985-1996 and follow-up until 2020. We conducted a prospective cohort study and used Cox models to investigate the association of nine different metabolic biomarkers (glucose, total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), LDL-C/HDL-C, triglyceride (TG), apolipoprotein B (ApoB), apolipoprotein A-I (ApoA I), and ApoB/ApoA-I) with risk of hematological malignancy, after excluding the first five years of follow-up and adjustment for inflammatory biomarkers. We observed a decreased risk of hematological malignancy associated with one SD increase of TC (HR 0.93; 95% CI 0.91-0.96), LDL-C (HR 0.94; 95% CI 0.91-0.97), HDL-C (HR 0.92; 95% CI 0.86-0.99), and ApoA-I (HR 0.96; 95% CI 0.93-0.996). Our study highlights a decreased risk of hematological malignancy associated with a higher level of TC, LDL-C, HDL-C, and ApoA-I. Show less
Diabetes mellitus and dyslipidemia are major risk factors for atherosclerosis. Hypoechoic plaques, which indicate vulnerable or unstable plaques, may rupture and lead to ischemic stroke, cognitive imp Show more
Diabetes mellitus and dyslipidemia are major risk factors for atherosclerosis. Hypoechoic plaques, which indicate vulnerable or unstable plaques, may rupture and lead to ischemic stroke, cognitive impairment, increased adverse cardiac events, and even death. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between plasma lipid levels and the characteristics of atherosclerotic plaques in adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. A retrospective analysis was conducted on adult patients with type 2 mellitus who were hospitalized in the Department of Endocrinology at Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University between January 2017 and December 2021.Patients were categorized into two groups based on arterial ultrasound results. Statistical analyses were performed to compare plasma lipid levels and plaque characteristics across the groups. 1) Statistically significant differences were observed among the two groups in terms of gender, hypertension, age, duration of diabetes mellitus, plaque location, triglycerides (TG),total cholesterol (TC), Apolipoprotein A1 (Apo A1),very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), VLDL/apolipoprotein B(ApoB), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL)/ApoA1 ( In clinical practice, the characteristics of atherosclerotic plaques and lipid profiles should be jointly evaluated to guide targeted treatment and effectively reduce the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Show less
The extensive co-occurrence of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), as evidenced by epidemiological studies, is supported by positive genetic correlations identified in comprehensive genetic investigations Show more
The extensive co-occurrence of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), as evidenced by epidemiological studies, is supported by positive genetic correlations identified in comprehensive genetic investigations, suggesting a shared genetic basis. However, the precise genetic mechanisms underlying these associations remain elusive. By assessing genetic correlations, genetic overlap, and causal connections, we aim to shed light on common genetic underpinnings among major CVDs. Employing multi-trait analysis, we pursue diverse strategies to unveil shared genetic elements, encompassing SNPs, genes, gene sets, and functional categories with pleiotropic implications. Our study systematically quantifies genetic overlap beyond genome-wide genetic correlations across CVDs, while identifying a putative causal relationship between coronary artery disease (CAD) and heart failure (HF). We then pinpointed 38 genomic loci with pleiotropic influence across CVDs, of which the most influential pleiotropic locus is located at the LPA gene. Notably, 12 loci present high evidence of multi-trait colocalization and display congruent directional effects. Examination of genes and gene sets linked to these loci unveiled robust associations with circulatory system development processes. Intriguingly, distinct patterns predominantly driven by atrial fibrillation, coronary artery disease, and venous thromboembolism underscore the significant disparities between clinically defined CVD classifications and underlying shared biological mechanisms, according to functional annotation findings. Show less
The AMPK/SIRT1/PGC-1α pathway serves as a central regulator of cellular energy homeostasis, coordinating metabolic stress responses, epigenetic modifications, and transcriptional programs. Its dysfunc Show more
The AMPK/SIRT1/PGC-1α pathway serves as a central regulator of cellular energy homeostasis, coordinating metabolic stress responses, epigenetic modifications, and transcriptional programs. Its dysfunction is implicated in the pathogenesis of a wide spectrum of complex modern diseases, spanning neurodegeneration, metabolic syndromes, and chronic inflammatory conditions. This review examines the pathway's role as an integrative hub and its potential as a therapeutic target. We synthesize current mechanistic evidence from molecular, cellular, and preclinical studies to elucidate the pathway's operational logic and the consequences of its dysregulation. The analysis is structured around key disease paradigms-including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, diabetes, cardiovascular injury, stroke, and chronic kidney disease-to dissect its tissue-specific pathophysiological impacts. The AMPK/SIRT1/PGC-1α axis operates through a core positive feedback loop: AMPK activation elevates NAD+, thereby activating SIRT1, which in turn deacetylates and activates PGC-1α to drive mitochondrial biogenesis and function, further reinforcing SIRT1 activity. Disruption of this cascade manifests in disease-specific mechanisms: promoting Aβ production via BACE1/γ-secretase in Alzheimer's; impairing α-synuclein clearance in Parkinson's; disrupting GLUT4 translocation and insulin signaling in diabetes; exacerbating oxidative damage and mitochondrial dysfunction in cardiovascular and neuronal injury; and accelerating fibrosis and sustained inflammation in renal and pulmonary diseases via NLRP3 and TGF-β/Smad3 signaling. The AMPK/SIRT1/PGC-1α pathway represents a cornerstone target at the intersection of metabolism, aging, and disease. Current therapeutic strategies-including pharmacological activators (e.g., metformin, SRT1720), natural compounds (e.g., resveratrol), lifestyle interventions (e.g., exercise, caloric restriction), and emerging technologies (e.g., gene editing, exosomal miRNAs)-offer multidimensional avenues for intervention. Future research must prioritize elucidating tissue-specific regulatory mechanisms, such as AMPK isoform diversity and PGC-1α interactome dynamics, to enable precision therapeutics and successful clinical translation for a range of complex disorders. Show less
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) poses a substantial global threat. SARS-CoV-2 nonstructural proteins (NSPs) are essential for impeding the host replication mechanism while Show more
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) poses a substantial global threat. SARS-CoV-2 nonstructural proteins (NSPs) are essential for impeding the host replication mechanism while also assisting in the production and organization of new viral components. However, NSPs are not incorporated into viral particles, and their subsequent fate within host cells remains poorly understood. Additionally, their role in viral pathogenesis requires further investigation. This study aimed to discover the ultimate fate of NSP6 in host cells and to elucidate its role in viral pathogenesis. We investigated the effects of NSP6 on cell death and explored the underlying mechanism; moreover, we examined the degradation mechanism of NSP6 in human cells, along with analysing its correlation with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) severity in patient peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). NSP6 was demonstrated to induce cell death. Specifically, NSP6 interacted with EI24 autophagy-associated transmembrane protein (EI24) to increase intracellular Ca This study reveals that KLHL22-mediated ubiquitination controls NSP6 stability and that NSP6 induces autophagic cell death via calcium overload, highlighting its cytotoxic role and suggesting therapeutic strategies that target calcium signaling or promote NSP6 degradation as potential interventions against COVID-19. Show less
The common variant PNPLA3-I148M, globally, is the most significant genetic risk factor for fatty liver disease. However, it is unclear precisely how I148M drives disease risk. Using human hepatoma cel Show more
The common variant PNPLA3-I148M, globally, is the most significant genetic risk factor for fatty liver disease. However, it is unclear precisely how I148M drives disease risk. Using human hepatoma cells expressing endogenous I148M, we find that the variant impairs cellular secretion of apolipoprotein B (ApoB), the scaffolding protein of very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL). This is not due to loss-of-function of wild-type PNPLA3. Expression of human I148M in primary hepatocytes and mice also hinders VLDL secretion. Lipidomic profiling reveals a shift from polyunsaturated phosphatidylcholine to polyunsaturated triglycerides in I148M cells, reducing membrane fluidity and, concomitantly, VLDL biogenesis. ApoB secretion is substantially rescued in I148M cells overexpressing ABHD5/CGI-58, an I148M-binding partner that normally activates ATGL/PNPLA2-mediated triglyceride lipolysis. Conversely, knocking down CGI-58 or PNPLA2 mimics I148M. We propose that I148M is a neomorph that exacerbates fatty liver risk by simultaneously impeding two major CGI-58-dependent pathways for liver triglyceride clearance: lipolysis and secretion. Show less
Pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas (PPGLs) exhibit the highest degree of heritability among all human tumors, yet the genetics of urinary bladder paragangliomas (UBPGLs) remains poorly understood. T Show more
Pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas (PPGLs) exhibit the highest degree of heritability among all human tumors, yet the genetics of urinary bladder paragangliomas (UBPGLs) remains poorly understood. The present study aims to examine the characteristics of a cohort of Chinese patients with UBPGLs, focusing particularly on genetics. The study included 70 Chinese patients with UBPGLs from 15 centers in China, 240 patients with non-head and neck PGLs (non-HNPGLs) outside the urine bladder, and 16 Caucasian patients with UBPGLs. Tumor DNA samples were sequenced by next generation sequencing. All identified pathogenic variants (PVs) were confirmed by Sanger sequencing. Among the 70 Chinese patients, PVs were identified in 38 cases: 23 in cluster 1 A (13 SDHB, 1 SDHD, 1 SDHA, 4 IDH1, 2 SLC25A11, and 2 FH), 4 in cluster 1B (3 EPAS1 and 1 EGLN1), and 11 in cluster 2 genes (7 HRAS, 1 FGFR1, 2 NF1, and 1 H3F3A). Compared with other non-HNPGLs, UBPGLs had more PVs in cluster 1 A genes (32.9% vs. 14.2%, p < 0.001), but fewer in cluster 1B (5.7% vs. 19.2%, p = 0.002) and cluster 2 genes (15.7% vs. 42.5%, p < 0.001). PVs in SDHB (18.6%) was the most common in Chinese patients with UBPGLs, followed by HRAS (10.0%). No PVs was found in 45.7% of all UBPGLs. PVs in HRAS, SLC25A11, EPAS1, and FH were also identified in Caucasians with UBPGLs. Chinese patients with UBPGLs have a diverse genetic profile. PVs in cluster 1 A genes underlie nearly 1/3 of patients, highlighting the importance of genetic testing. Diverse germline and somatic PVs are also present in Caucasian patients with UBPGLs. Show less
Foam cells derived from macrophages and smooth muscle cells (SMCs) play a pivotal role in the progression of atherosclerosis. While phytosterols (PS) have demonstrated cholesterol-lowering and anti-in Show more
Foam cells derived from macrophages and smooth muscle cells (SMCs) play a pivotal role in the progression of atherosclerosis. While phytosterols (PS) have demonstrated cholesterol-lowering and anti-inflammatory properties, their impact on foam cells remains elusive. Here, we investigated the effects of PS on foam cell formation, inflammatory responses, and lipid metabolism using both single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and functional assays. scRNA-seq of aortic tissue from Show less
Oxymatrine is an alkaloid with the property of immunomodulation. Recent studies have demonstrated that oxymatrine inhibits experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model of multiple Show more
Oxymatrine is an alkaloid with the property of immunomodulation. Recent studies have demonstrated that oxymatrine inhibits experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model of multiple sclerosis (MS), by promoting the production of interferon-β (IFN-β). However, the mechanism through which oxymatrine regulates the production of IFN-β remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the pharmacological effects and related molecular mechanisms of oxymatrine in the treatment of EAE through in vivo and in vitro experiments. Oxymatrine alleviated neurological dysfunction, demyelination, and inflammation in EAE mice. It reduced microglia/macrophage infiltration and polarization, lowered pro-inflammatory cytokine levels (iNOS, TNF-α), and enhanced the expression of IL-10 and IL-27. Additionally, oxymatrine upregulated the STING/TBK1/IRF3 signaling pathway in EAE mice, promoting IFN-β production by microglia. Similarly, in LPS-induced BV2 cells, oxymatrine suppressed inflammatory factors and activated the STING/TBK1/IRF3 pathway to enhance IFN-β production. Notably, treatment with the STING inhibitor, C176, reversed these effects in both EAE mice and LPS-induced BV2 cells, confirming the pathway's critical role in the mechanism of oxymatrine therapy. Oxymatrine promotes IFN-β production in microglia by upregulating the STING/TBK1/IRF3 signaling pathway, thereby alleviating the neurological dysfunction of EAE and reducing pathological and inflammatory events. This study identifies a novel anti-EAE mechanism of oxymatrine: promoting IFN-β production in microglia by activating the STING/TBK1/IRF3 pathway. However, it lacks clinical sample verification. If validated later, oxymatrine may provide a more economical, convenient endogenous IFN-β induction regimen for MS patients. Show less
Chronic diseases have become a major public health challenge facing the world. Identifying key factors and developing effective management strategies to promote proactive health behaviors in patients Show more
Chronic diseases have become a major public health challenge facing the world. Identifying key factors and developing effective management strategies to promote proactive health behaviors in patients is crucial for improving health outcomes. This study aims to construct a comprehensive model of proactive health behaviors in chronic disease patients, elucidate multilevel determinants, and guide targeted policy interventions in China. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 805 patients with chronic diseases in China. Latent profile analysis (LPA) was conducted to identify distinct profiles of proactive health behaviors among patients. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to verify and analyze the determinants affecting the proactive health behaviors of patients. Among the 805 participants, 471 were classified as highly proactive, and 334 were classified as less proactive. The average score for proactive health behaviors was 70.37 ± 10.93. Several factors positively predicted proactive health behaviors: patients aged > 74 years (AOR = 8.85, 95% CI 2.06-39.45), married patients (AOR = 1.78, 95% CI 1.02-3.11), urban residents (AOR= 1.33, 95% CI 1.04-1.70), those with stronger health intentions (AOR = 1.42, 95% CI 1.28-1.60), higher self-efficacy (AOR = 1.12, 95% CI 1.04-1.20), positive health beliefs (AOR = 1.21, 95% CI 1.09-1.34)), and greater community support (AOR = 1.18, 95% CI 1.07-1.32). Regarding policy support, perceiving an adequate upper payment limit for drugs was associated with twice the odds of proactive health behaviors (AOR = 2.61, 95% CI 1.44-4.78). Additionally, age and the medication reimbursement policy for drug expenses exerted negative effects on proactive health behaviors (β = -0.507, P < 0.01). Governments should transform medical insurance from a passive payer into an active health investor. By incorporating behavioral economics principles, such a reform reallocates policy design, resources, and decision-making power toward disadvantaged populations. This shift breaks the "well-intentioned policy trap", achieving lower medical costs alongside improved population health. Show less
The differential impact of serum lipids and their targets for lipid modification on cardiometabolic disease risk is debated. This study used Mendelian randomization to investigate the causal relations Show more
The differential impact of serum lipids and their targets for lipid modification on cardiometabolic disease risk is debated. This study used Mendelian randomization to investigate the causal relationships and underlying mechanisms. Genetic variants related to lipid profiles and targets for lipid modification were sourced from the Global Lipids Genetics Consortium. Summary data for 10 cardiometabolic diseases were compiled from both discovery and replication data sets. Expression quantitative trait loci data from relevant tissues were employed to evaluate significant lipid-modifying drug targets. Comprehensive analyses including colocalization, mediation, and bioinformatics were conducted to validate the results and investigate potential mediators and mechanisms. Significant causal associations were identified between lipids, lipid-modifying drug targets, and various cardiometabolic diseases. Notably, genetic enhancement of LPL (lipoprotein lipase) was linked to reduced risks of myocardial infarction (odds ratio [OR] The study substantiates the causal role of lipids in specific cardiometabolic diseases, highlighting LPL as a potent drug target. The effects of LPL are suggested to be influenced by changes in glucose and blood pressure, providing insights into its mechanism of action. Show less
Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is a practical and effective method for treating coronary heart disease (CHD). This study aims to explore the influencing factors of major cardiovascular event Show more
Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is a practical and effective method for treating coronary heart disease (CHD). This study aims to explore the influencing factors of major cardiovascular events (MACEs) and hospital readmission risk within one year following PCI treatment. Additionally, it seeks to assess the clinical value of Apolipoprotein B/Apolipoprotein A-I (ApoB/ApoA-I) in predicting the risk of one-year MACEs and readmission post-PCI. A retrospective study included 1938 patients who underwent PCI treatment from January 2010 to December 2018 at Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated with Shandong First Medical University. Patient demographics, medications, and biochemical indicators were recorded upon admission, with one-year follow-up post-operation. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression models were utilized to establish the relationship between ApoB/ApoA-I levels and MACEs/readmission. Predictive nomograms were constructed to forecast MACEs and readmission, with the accuracy of the nomograms assessed using the concordance index. Subgroup analyses were conducted to explore the occurrence of MACEs and readmission. We observed a correlation between ApoB/ApoA-I and other lipid indices, including total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (P < 0.001). Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses demonstrated that ApoB/ApoA-I is an independent risk factor for MACEs in post-PCI patients (P = 0.038). Within one year, the incidence of MACEs significantly increased in the high-level ApoB/ApoA-I group (ApoB/ApoA-I ratio ≥ 0.824) (P = 0.038), while the increase in readmission incidence within one year was not statistically significant. Furthermore, a nomogram predicting one-year MACEs was established (Concordance Index: 0.668). Subgroup analysis revealed that ApoB/ApoA-I was associated with the occurrence of both MACEs and readmission in male patients, those using CCB/ARB/ACEI, those without multivessel diseases, or those with LDL-C < 2.6 mmol/L. The ApoB/ApoA-I ratio serves as an independent risk factor for one-year MACEs in post-PCI patients and correlates closely with other blood lipid indicators. ApoB/ApoA-I demonstrates significant predictive value for the occurrence of MACEs within one year.Trial registration Chinese clinical trial registry: No.ChiCTR22000597-23. Show less
The prognosis for colorectal cancer (CRC) patients with liver metastasis remains poor, and the molecular mechanisms driving CRC liver metastasis are not fully understood. Tumor-derived hypoxia-induced Show more
The prognosis for colorectal cancer (CRC) patients with liver metastasis remains poor, and the molecular mechanisms driving CRC liver metastasis are not fully understood. Tumor-derived hypoxia-induced extracellular vesicles have emerged as key players in inducing angiogenesis by transferring noncoding RNAs. However, the specific role of CRC-derived hypoxic extracellular vesicles (H-EVs) in regulating premetastatic microenvironment (PMN) formation by inducing angiogenesis remains unclear. Our study demonstrates that H-EVs induce angiogenesis and liver metastasis. Through microRNA microarray analysis, we identified a reduction in miR-6084 levels within H-EVs. We found that miR-6084 inhibited angiogenesis by being transferred to endothelial cells via EVs. In endothelial cells, miR-6084 directly targeted angiopoietin like 4 (ANGPTL4) mRNA, thereby suppressing angiogenesis through the ANGPTL4-mediated JAK2/STAT3 pathway. Furthermore, we uncovered that specificity protein 1 (SP1) acted as a transcription factor regulating miR-6084 transcription, while hypoxia-inducible factor 1A (HIF1A) decreased miR-6084 expression by promoting SP1 protein dephosphorylation and facilitating ubiquitin-proteasome degradation in SW620 cells. In clinical samples, we observed low expression of miR-6084 in plasma-derived EVs from CRC patients with liver metastasis. In summary, our findings suggest that CRC-derived H-EVs promote angiogenesis and liver metastasis through the HIF1A/SP1/miR-6084/ANGPTL4 axis. Additionally, miR-6084 holds promise as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for CRC liver metastasis. Show less
Cholesterol-loaded macrophage foam cells are a key feature of atherosclerotic plaques. Oxysterol-binding protein-related protein 2 (ORP2) facilitates the transport of cholesterol from lysosomes to the Show more
Cholesterol-loaded macrophage foam cells are a key feature of atherosclerotic plaques. Oxysterol-binding protein-related protein 2 (ORP2) facilitates the transport of cholesterol from lysosomes to the plasma membrane in cultured cell lines. However, the role of ORP2 in macrophages and its involvement in atherosclerosis remain unclear. In this study, we found ORP2 expression was reduced in atherosclerotic vessels and in macrophages exposed to oxidized LDL (ox-LDL). Myeloid-specific human ORP2 overexpression (hORP2 Show less
To investigate the effect of tannic acid (TA) on the growth, disease resistance, and intestinal health of Chinese soft-shelled turtles, individual turtles were fed with 0 g/kg (CG), 0.5 g/kg, 1 g/kg, Show more
To investigate the effect of tannic acid (TA) on the growth, disease resistance, and intestinal health of Chinese soft-shelled turtles, individual turtles were fed with 0 g/kg (CG), 0.5 g/kg, 1 g/kg, 2 g/kg, and 4 g/kg TA diets for 98 days. Afterwards, the turtles' disease resistance was tested using Show less
Glioma is a highly aggressive malignancy with no effective treatment. This study investigates the role of protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor type N (PTPRN) in glioma progression. The U87 human glio Show more
Glioma is a highly aggressive malignancy with no effective treatment. This study investigates the role of protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor type N (PTPRN) in glioma progression. The U87 human glioma cell line was used to monitor proliferation, invasion, and migration during PTPRN knockdown. The viability, migration, and invasion were analyzed using the Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, transwell migration, and invasion assays. Additionally, the expression of proteins associated with the cell cycle was examined using western blotting. The knockdown of PTPRN resulted in a reduction in glioma cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, as well as the expression of cell cycle markers like Show less
Light-responsive porous liquids (LPLs) attract significant attention for their controllable gas uptake under light irradiation, while their preparation has remained a great challenge. Here we report t Show more
Light-responsive porous liquids (LPLs) attract significant attention for their controllable gas uptake under light irradiation, while their preparation has remained a great challenge. Here we report the fabrication of type II LPLs with enhanced light-responsive efficiency by tailoring the host's functionality for the first time. The functionality of light-responsive metal-organic cage (MOC-RL, constructed from dicopper and responsive ligands) is modified by introducing the second long-chain alkyl ligand, producing MOC-RL-AL as a new host. A spatially hindered solvent based on polyethylene glycol, IL-NTf Show less
Tumor fibrosis is recognized as a malignant hallmark in various solid tumors; however, the clinical importance and associated molecular characteristics of tumor fibrosis in liver metastases (LM) from Show more
Tumor fibrosis is recognized as a malignant hallmark in various solid tumors; however, the clinical importance and associated molecular characteristics of tumor fibrosis in liver metastases (LM) from colorectal cancer (CRLM) remain poorly understood. Here we show that patients with CRLM whose liver metastases (LM) exhibited tumor fibrosis (Fibrosis+ LM) had significantly worse progression-free survival (P = 0.025) and overall survival (P = 0.008). Single-cell RNA sequencing revealed that the tumor microenvironment of the Fibrosis+ LM was characterized by T cells with an exhausted phenotype, macrophages displaying a profibrotic and suppressive phenotype and fibrosis-promoting fibroblasts. Further investigation highlighted the pivotal role of VCAN_eCAF in remodeling the tumor fibrosis in the tumor microenvironment of Fibrosis+ LM, emphasizing potential targetable interactions such as FGF23 or FGF3-FGFR1. Validation through multiplex immunohistochemistry/immunofluorescence and spatial transcriptomics supported these findings. Here we present a comprehensive single-cell atlas of tumor fibrosis in LM, revealing the intricate multicellular environment and molecular features associated with it. These insights deepen our understanding of tumor fibrosis mechanisms and inform improved clinical diagnosis and treatment strategies. Show less
Infantile hemangioma (IH) is a common benign vascular tumor in infants, often requiring intervention due to potential functional impairment and cosmetic concerns. Propranolol, a nonselective β-adrener Show more
Infantile hemangioma (IH) is a common benign vascular tumor in infants, often requiring intervention due to potential functional impairment and cosmetic concerns. Propranolol, a nonselective β-adrenergic receptor blocker, is the first-line therapy for IH, yet its mechanisms remain incompletely elucidated. This prospective study investigated the systemic angiogenic protein profile changes in response to propranolol in 14 treatment-naïve IH infants compared to 14 healthy controls using antibody array analysis. We identified twenty-six angiogenic proteins significantly downregulated in pretreatment IH patients compared to healthy controls. After 3 months of propranolol treatment, six proteins including HB-EGF, TGFα, ANGPTL4, Follistatin, Tie-1 and PLGF were significantly upregulated. Bioinformatic enrichment analysis revealed that these proteins are involved in key biological processes and signaling pathways, including epithelial cell proliferation, angiogenesis regulation, VEGF signaling, ERBB-EGFR axis, Ras-MAPK, and PI3K-Akt pathways. These results suggest that propranolol treatment is associated with a rebalancing of dysregulated angiogenic proteins in IH, through modulating both pro- and anti-angiogenic factors to rebalance vascular homeostasis. Our study provides novel insights into the systems-level pharmacological actions of propranolol and proposes potential biomarkers for treatment response evaluation. Show less
Ischemic injury induces a partial mesenchymal shift in endothelial cells (ECs), contributing to impaired vascular regeneration. However, the molecular regulators of this transitional state remain poor Show more
Ischemic injury induces a partial mesenchymal shift in endothelial cells (ECs), contributing to impaired vascular regeneration. However, the molecular regulators of this transitional state remain poorly defined. To address this, we performed circular RNA profiling of endothelial cells under ischemic-like conditions and identified a marked upregulation of a circular RNA, named circATXN1. Functional studies revealed that circATXN1 knockdown modulates endothelial phenotype and vascular response after ischemia. Functional studies have shown that knockdown of circATXN1 can regulate the endothelial cell phenotype and vascular response after ischemia. Mechanistically, circATXN1 knockdown enhances the demethylase protein ALKBH5 to reduce the RNA methylation level of the key transcription factor SLUG, thereby stabilizing SLUG. In animal models, suppression of circATXN1 enhances angiogenesis and improves recovery following ischemic injury. Here, we show that circATXN1 regulates partial endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) and angiogenesis by controlling SLUG mRNA methylation dynamics, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target in ischemic disease. Show less
Protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5) complexes with methylosome protein 50 (MEP50) play crucial roles in tumor progress. However, the regulatory mechanism of governing the PRMT5-MEP50 hetero-o Show more
Protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5) complexes with methylosome protein 50 (MEP50) play crucial roles in tumor progress. However, the regulatory mechanism of governing the PRMT5-MEP50 hetero-octameric complex remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that C6orf223, to our knowledge an uncharacterized protein, facilitates PRMT5-MEP50 multiprotein complex assembling, thereby promoting colorectal cancer (CRC) growth and metastasis. C6orf223 forms dimers through disulfide bonds, with its N-terminal arginine-enriched region binding to the C-terminal negatively charged groove of PRMT5, thus stabilizing PRMT5-MEP50 multiprotein and enhancing PRMT5 methyltransferase activity. Consequently, PRMT5-mediated H4R3me2s substantially decreases the expression of the tumor suppressor GATA5, leading to the upregulation of multiple oncogenic target genes including WWTR1, FGFR1, and CLU. Targeting C6orf223 using siRNAs encapsulated in ferritin protein shells effectively suppresses CRC tumor growth and metastasis. Collectively, our findings characterize the role of C6orf223 in facilitating PRMT5-MEP50 hetero-octameric complex assembling and suggest that C6orf223 could serve as a potential therapeutic target for CRC. Show less
Second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) are widely used to treat schizophrenia (SCZ), but they often induce metabolic side effects like dyslipidemia and obesity. We conducted genome-wide association s Show more
Second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) are widely used to treat schizophrenia (SCZ), but they often induce metabolic side effects like dyslipidemia and obesity. We conducted genome-wide association studies (GWASs) to identify genetic variants associated with SGA-induced lipid and BMI changes in Chinese SCZ patients. A longitudinal cohort of Chinese SCZ receiving SGAs was followed for up to 18.7 years (mean = 5.7 years, SD = 3.3 years). We analysed the patients' genotypes (N = 669), lipid profiles, and BMI using 19 316 prescription records and 3 917 to 7 596 metabolic measurements per outcome. Linear mixed models were employed to evaluate seven SGAs' random effects on metabolic changes for each patient, followed by GWAS and gene set analyses with Bonferroni and FDR correction. Five SNPs achieved p-value < 5 × 10 Show less