Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) associated with early-life stress (ELS) commonly manifests as anxiety and visceral hypersensitivity. However, the pathogenic mechanisms underlying these effects are not Show more
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) associated with early-life stress (ELS) commonly manifests as anxiety and visceral hypersensitivity. However, the pathogenic mechanisms underlying these effects are not fully understood. This study aims to investigate the role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) as a key mediator of ELS-induced changes through the brain-gut axis. A Sprague-Dawley male maternal separation (MS) rat model was used to induce anxiety and visceral hypersensitivity associated with ELS. BDNF levels were measured in the limbic system (cingulate gyrus, amygdala, and hippocampus) and serum. The correlation between BDNF levels, anxiety, and visceral hypersensitivity was analyzed. Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) expression in the hippocampus and the extent of visceral hyper-sensitivity were assessed in control, MS, and MS+K252a (a BDNF receptor antagonist) groups. MS rats exhibited higher levels of anxiety and visceral hypersensitivity compared to controls. BDNF production in the hippocampus was elevated in MS rats and positively correlated with anxiety (r = -0.78, p < 0.05) and visceral hypersensitivity (r = 0.93, p < 0.01). CRF expression, a key mediator of stress and visceral hypersensitivity, was also increased in the hippocampus of MS rats. Inhibition of BDNF signaling using K252a reduced CRF expression and alleviated visceral hypersensitivity. This study demonstrates that BDNF may mediate ELS-induced anxiety and visceral hypersensitivity through hippocampal TrkB-CRF signaling, providing a mechanistic basis for targeting BDNF in stress-related IBS. Show less
Aortic valve calcification increases leaflet stiffness and contributes to the development of calcific aortic valve disease. The molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying calcification remain unclea Show more
Aortic valve calcification increases leaflet stiffness and contributes to the development of calcific aortic valve disease. The molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying calcification remain unclear. Here, we aimed to investigate the role of PRMT3 (protein arginine methyltransferase 3) in valvular calcification and calcific aortic valve disease progression. Both aortic valve leaflets and valvular interstitial cells from patients were used to evaluate the expression pattern and investigate the underlying mechanism of PRMT3 in calcific aortic valve disease pathogenesis. High-cholesterol diet-fed Apoe (apolipoprotein E)-deficient ( We found that PRMT3 expression was significantly upregulated during aortic valve calcification. RUNX2 (runt-related transcription factor 2) recruited P300 to promote PRMT3 expression through histone H3 lysine 27 acetylation. Moreover, We identify a previously unrecognized posttranslational mechanism regulating PCSK9 stability in valve interstitial cells during calcific aortic valve disease and establish a link between PRMT3-mediated arginine methylation and valve-specific lipid-osteogenic coupling. 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
Lilium brownii is a plant that can be used for medicinal and food purposes. 1-O-p-coumaroyl-3-O-feruloyl glycerol (CF) is a phenolic acid glycerol dimer isolated from Lilium brownii. This study aims t Show more
Lilium brownii is a plant that can be used for medicinal and food purposes. 1-O-p-coumaroyl-3-O-feruloyl glycerol (CF) is a phenolic acid glycerol dimer isolated from Lilium brownii. This study aims to evaluate the neuroprotective effects of CF and elucidate the possible molecular mechanisms underlying its neuroprotective effects through in vivo and in vitro models of Parkinson's disease. 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium ions (MPP Following CF administration, the apoptosis rate and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in PC12 cells were significantly reduced. CF markedly upregulated the expression of proteins including dopamine, tyrosine hydroxylase, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), while simultaneously downregulating the expression of proteins such as α-synuclein. Molecular docking results demonstrated favorable affinity between CF and proteins including p62. This compound not only ameliorated motor and cognitive impairments in Parkinson's disease mice but also markedly increased neuronal numbers within the substantia nigra region of these animals. CF exerts a neuroprotective effect in Parkinson's disease by modulating the p62-Keap1-Nrf2 signalling pathway. Show less
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) are abundant stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME) that play a vital role in promoting tumor progression and drug resistance. The mechanisms regulating Show more
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) are abundant stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME) that play a vital role in promoting tumor progression and drug resistance. The mechanisms regulating heterogeneity of CAFs in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) could represent potential targets for reprogramming the TME. In this study, we conducted single-cell RNA sequence and flow cytometry analyses that identified a CAF subset overexpressing apolipoprotein E (ApoE), which was correlated with poor survival in patients with RCC. Mechanistically, NRF1 activation in CAFs induced formation of ApoEhigh CAFs and secretion of NRG1. ApoEhigh CAFs potentiated stemness properties in the surrounding RCC cells by secreting NRG1 and subsequently activating the HER2/NF-κB pathway. Interfering with NRG1 expression or inhibiting NF-κB signaling reduced ApoEhigh CAF-induced stemness of RCC cells. Furthermore, neutralizing NRG1 enhanced the efficacy of sunitinib in RCC models in vivo. Together, these findings highlight targeting the tumor-promoting functions of ApoEhigh CAFs as a promising approach for treating advanced RCC. NRF1 drives formation of ApoEhigh cancer-associated fibroblasts that secrete NRG1 to stimulate stemness of renal cell carcinoma, revealing a stromal-mediated mechanism that can be inhibited to improve treatment of advanced kidney cancer. Show less
This study investigated the impact of This retrospective case-control study involved 628 CAD patients and 628 matched controls without CAD. ApoE genotyping was conducted using PCR-chip technology, and Show more
This study investigated the impact of This retrospective case-control study involved 628 CAD patients and 628 matched controls without CAD. ApoE genotyping was conducted using PCR-chip technology, and genotype and allele frequencies were compared between groups. Multivariate logistic regression analyzed the link between ApoE polymorphisms and CAD risk in populations at middle and high altitudes. The data revealed significant differences in These findings validated that the Show less
To examine associations between the 24-h composition of movement behaviors (sedentary behavior [SB], light physical activity [LPA], moderate-to-vigorous physical activity [MVPA], and sleep) and physic Show more
To examine associations between the 24-h composition of movement behaviors (sedentary behavior [SB], light physical activity [LPA], moderate-to-vigorous physical activity [MVPA], and sleep) and physical and mental health in older adults using compositional data analysis. Data came from 4,150 adults aged ≥ 60 in the 2015 China Health and Nutrition Survey. Multiple‑balance isometric log‑ratio regression and compositional isotemporal substitution models were used to assess relative associations and the effect of time reallocation. The 24‑hour geometric mean composition was 43.1% sleep, 30.6% SB, 21.8% LPA, and 4.5% MVPA. LPA was positively associated with physical (β = 0.062, Replacing sedentary time or sleep with LPA, even in small amounts, is associated with better physical and mental health in older adults, supporting integrated 24‑hour activity guidelines that emphasize light‑intensity movement. Show less
Major depressive disorder is a severe mental health condition characterized by persistent depressed mood and loss of interest. Current first-line pharmacotherapies often exhibit limited therapeutic pe Show more
Major depressive disorder is a severe mental health condition characterized by persistent depressed mood and loss of interest. Current first-line pharmacotherapies often exhibit limited therapeutic performance and adverse side effects. Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) is a promising, safe, and noninvasive alternative intervention with demonstrated neuromodulatory efficacy. Nevertheless, its mechanisms remain unclear. This study investigated whether the antidepressant properties of taVNS are associated with the microbiota-gut-brain axis, focusing on the potential crosstalk between differentially expressed hippocampal proteins and the gut microbiota. A chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) rat model of depression was established, and taVNS was administered for 14 days. Hippocampal proteomic profiling was performed using data-independent acquisition. Fecal metagenomic sequencing was conducted to characterize alterations in gut microbial communities. Key signaling pathways were validated using Western blot, qRT-PCR, HE staining, and transmission electron microscopy, all of which were employed to systematically assess behavioral, proteomic, microbial, and molecular changes. Proteomics and molecular analyses revealed that taVNS upregulated hippocampal expression of glutamate ionotropic receptor N-methyl-D-aspartate type subunit 1 (GluN1) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), while simultaneously restoring mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling activity. Metagenomic profiling demonstrated that taVNS increased the abundance of TaVNS significantly alleviated depression-like behaviors in CUMS-exposed rats. The underlying mechanism may involve the restoration of synaptic function of glutamatergic neurons by regulating the GluN1/MAPK/BDNF signaling pathway. In addition, taVNS reshaped the gut microbiota, markedly increasing the abundance of Show less
The neurovascular unit (NVU) represents a multicellular functional ensemble pivotal to the preservation of cerebral homeostasis, encompassing endothelial cells, pericytes, glial cells (astrocytes, mic Show more
The neurovascular unit (NVU) represents a multicellular functional ensemble pivotal to the preservation of cerebral homeostasis, encompassing endothelial cells, pericytes, glial cells (astrocytes, microglia, oligodendrocytes), and neurons. This complex orchestrates the regulation of blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity, cerebral blood flow (CBF), and the metabolic microenvironment requisite for neuronal viability and functional competence. Accumulating lines of evidence have underscored that NVU dysfunction constitutes a critical early pathological event in neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease (AD) and vascular dementia (VaD). The present review summarizes the structural composition and core physiological functionalities of the NVU, with particular emphasis on the emerging role of lipid metabolism dysregulation in mediating NVU impairment-an aberrant process encompassing lipid droplets, apolipoprotein E (APOE), ATPase phospholipid transporting 11B (ATP11B), triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2 (TREM2), and ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters. We further delineate the mechanisms by which disrupted lipid homeostasis elicits neuroinflammation, amplifies oxidative stress, impairs amyloid-β (Aβ) clearance, and precipitates BBB breakdown, ultimately culminating in cognitive decline. Simultaneously, this review examines controversies within the field, such as the specific role of apolipoprotein E ε4 allele (APOE4) in disease and highlights the significant pathophysiological differences between preclinical animal models and human diseases. Therapeutic strategies targeting lipid metabolism or the blood-brain barrier still face considerable challenges in clinical translation. Meanwhile, emerging tools such as lipidomics contribute to systematically analyzing the associated dysregulated lipid networks, thereby aiding in the identification of novel therapeutic targets. Show less
The response rate to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unsatisfactory, and the mechanisms of resistance are not fully understood. Here, we investigated the rol Show more
The response rate to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unsatisfactory, and the mechanisms of resistance are not fully understood. Here, we investigated the role of fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FGFR1) in shaping the tumor microenvironment (TME) and mediating ICB resistance. An anti-PD-1-resistant HCC model was established in mice, followed by single-cell RNA sequencing to profile TME alterations. We observed that ICB resistance was associated with FGFR1 upregulation, which activated MAPK signaling and induced SPP1 expression. This cascade promotes macrophage infiltration and M2-type polarization, while simultaneously suppressing T cell recruitment and cytotoxic function, thereby fostering an immunosuppressive microenvironment. SPP1 knockdown or neutralization significantly reduced macrophage accumulation and restored intratumoral T cell infiltration. Importantly, pharmacological inhibition of FGFR1 using BGJ398 synergized with anti-PD-1 therapy, resulting in enhanced antitumor efficacy in preclinical models. Analysis of clinical datasets further revealed that high FGFR1 expression correlated with poor responses to ICB of HCC patients. Collectively, these findings identify FGFR1 as a key mediator of ICB resistance in HCC. Targeting FGFR1 represents a promising strategy to reprogram the immunosuppressive TME and enhance response to immunotherapy, with potential additional value as a predictive biomarker. Show less
The agreement between plasma Aβ42/40 and Aβ positron emission tomography (PET) is approximately 75 %, with ∼85 % of discrepancies due to positive plasma but negative PET results. It is unclear whether Show more
The agreement between plasma Aβ42/40 and Aβ positron emission tomography (PET) is approximately 75 %, with ∼85 % of discrepancies due to positive plasma but negative PET results. It is unclear whether this reflects Aβ changes in plasma before PET-detectable. To assess the influence of Aβ42/40 positivity on risk of progression to Aβ PET positivity, and feasibility of using plasma Aβ42/40 tests to enrich a primary prevention trial. A prospective longitudinal cohort study. Participants of Australian Imaging, Biomarkers and Lifestyle study (AIBL), Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI), and Open Access Series of Imaging Studies 3 (OASIS3). 507 cognitively unimpaired adults at baseline, with a baseline Aβ PET < 20 Centiloid (CL) and available longitudinal Aβ PET data. Baseline Aβ PET and plasma Aβ42/40 measurement by mass-spectrometry, followed by 1-6 additional Aβ PET scans every 1.5-3 years. Those < 5 CL were classified as PET- and 5-20 CL as PET At baseline, 283 were Plasma-/PET-, 97 Plasma+/PET-, 76 Plasma-/PET Cognitively unimpaired individuals with abnormal Aβ42/40 are at increased risk for future Aβ PET positivity. In the 5-20 CL subgroup, baseline CL is the main driver of this risk. Combining blood-based pre-screening with PET imaging may help efficiently enrich primary prevention trials. Show less
Protocatechuic acid (PCA), a natural compound found in a variety of Chinese herbal medicines and plant foods, has been documented to inhibit atherosclerosis partially by reducing inflammation burden i Show more
Protocatechuic acid (PCA), a natural compound found in a variety of Chinese herbal medicines and plant foods, has been documented to inhibit atherosclerosis partially by reducing inflammation burden in arterial endothelial cells. Interestingly, in vitro studies showed that PCA at physiologically reachable concentrations does not affect inflammation burden in TNF-α-stimulated aortic endothelial cells, whereas it increases the content of exosomal miR-10b secreted by macrophages that have engulfed apoptotic cells (efferocytic macrophages). This study was aimed at investigating whether the in vivo anti-inflammatory effect of PCA in arterial endothelial cells was due to the uptake of efferocytic macrophage exosomal miR-10b. A transwell co-culture system of aortic endothelial cells with efferocytic macrophages was used to evaluate the effect of PCA on NF-κB-mediated inflammation in aortic endothelial cells. An inhibitor of exosome secretion, GW4869, was applied to confirm the role of exosomes played in the anti-inflammatory effect of PCA. The aortic endothelial cells were administrated with exosomes isolated from PCA-treated efferocytic macrophages or miR-10b mimic or antagomir to ascertain the role of miR-10b in downregulating inflammation effect of PCA. Bioinformatics analyses, loss-of- and gain-of-function assays and luciferase reporter gene assays were performed to identify targeting relationship between miR-10b and mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase 7 (MAP3K7)/β-transducin repeat-containing protein (β-TrCP). Besides, Apoe PCA at physiologically reachable concentrations inhibited NF-κB-mediated inflammation in TNF-α-stimulated aortic endothelial cells co-cultured with efferocytic macrophages, in which treatment of GW4869 reversed this effect. Exosomes isolated from PCA-treated efferocytic macrophages inhibited inflammation and increased miR-10b levels in aortic endothelial cells. Mechanistically, exosomal miR-10b post-transcriptionally repressed MAP3K7 and β-TrCP, both of which promote NF-κB activation. Knockdown of Map3k7 and Btrc with siRNA in aortic endothelial cells abolished the inhibitory effects of exosomes isolated from PCA-treated efferocytic macrophages on NF-κB-mediated inflammation. Consistently, oral administration of PCA increased miR-10b level and inhibited Map3k7 and Btrc mRNA expression as well as inflammation in aortic endothelial cells in Apoe Our current findings suggest that PCA could transfer exosomal miR-10b from efferocytic macrophages to endothelial cells and thus inhibit NF-κB-mediated inflammation in arterial endothelial cells through repressing MAP3K7 and β-TrCP, two new targets of miR-10b. Show less
Hereditary Multiple Osteochondromas (HMO) is a rare autosomal dominant skeletal disorder caused by heterozygous loss-of-function mutations in EXT1 or EXT2, which encode glycosyltransferases essential Show more
Hereditary Multiple Osteochondromas (HMO) is a rare autosomal dominant skeletal disorder caused by heterozygous loss-of-function mutations in EXT1 or EXT2, which encode glycosyltransferases essential for heparan sulfate (HS) biosynthesis. Whether haploinsufficiency alone suffices or biallelic inactivation is required for osteochondroma formation remains a central unresolved question. In this study, we employed CRISPR/Cas9 combined with PiggyBac transposon technology to introduce a second pathogenic mutation (c.1883+1G>T) into patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) carrying a heterozygous EXT1 c.1126C>T mutation. This approach enabled the generation of isogenic iPSC lines: wild-type (WT), single-mutant (SM), and double-mutant (DM). These iPSCs were differentiated through induced mesenchymal stem cells (iMSCs) into chondrocytes. Biallelic EXT1 mutation in DM cells led to significant upregulation of SOX9, COL2A1, and ACAN, elevated glycosaminoglycan (GAG) levels, and markedly reduced HS, whereas SM cells remained indistinguishable from WT. Three-dimensional (3D) chondrogenic organoid cultures revealed that DM organoids were enlarged and structurally disorganized, partially recapitulating key histopathological features of osteochondromas. Transcriptomic analysis identified the Wnt signaling pathway as the most significantly enriched pathway among differentially expressed genes following EXT1 loss. Collectively, these findings provide direct human cellular evidence that complete EXT1 inactivation-not haploinsufficiency-drives aberrant chondrogenesis, likely through impaired sequestration of morphogen ligands, thereby supporting the Two-hit pathogenic model. Show less
Clinical application of mesenchymal stem cells for endometrial repair has been hampered by variability in cell quality, large-scale production, and uncertainty regarding the optimal delivery route. In Show more
Clinical application of mesenchymal stem cells for endometrial repair has been hampered by variability in cell quality, large-scale production, and uncertainty regarding the optimal delivery route. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic potential of clinical-grade human embryonic stem cell-derived immunity-and-matrix-regulatory cells (IMRCs) for treating refractory moderate-to-severe intrauterine adhesion (IUA). In a rabbit IUA model, sub-endometrial injection of IMRCs significantly reduced fibrosis and enhanced endometrial angiogenesis, outperforming uterine perfusion. Transcriptomic analysis revealed distinct pro-angiogenic gene expression profiles between the two delivery routes. In vitro, IMRCs co-cultured with endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) markedly enhanced angiogenic potential compared to either cell type alone. Protein array analysis of the co-culture supernatant showed elevated levels of angiogenic factors, with functional assays confirming that inhibition of ANGPTL4, a non-canonical pro-angiogenic mediator, impaired angiogenesis. In a first-in-human, single-center, phase 1 dose-escalation trial involving 18 patients with refractory IUA, high-dose sub-endometrial IMRC injection promoted angiogenesis, reduced uterine scarring, and improved pregnancy outcomes, with no safety concerns observed over 3 years of follow-up. These findings highlight the translational promise of IMRCs as a novel therapeutic strategy for endometrial regeneration in severe IUA. Show less
Tripartite motif-containing protein 21 (TRIM21), an E3 ubiquitin ligase of the TRIM superfamily, modulates critical cellular processes including ubiquitination, autophagy, and oxidative stress respons Show more
Tripartite motif-containing protein 21 (TRIM21), an E3 ubiquitin ligase of the TRIM superfamily, modulates critical cellular processes including ubiquitination, autophagy, and oxidative stress response. Accumulating evidence highlights its context-dependent regulatory roles in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)-the most prevalent primary liver malignancy with high mortality and limited therapeutic efficacy. This review systematically summarizes the core mechanisms by which TRIM21 orchestrates HCC progression: ① Autophagy regulation: TRIM21 modulates HCC autophagy via multiple axes, including CCR4-NOT complex (TNKS1BP1/CNOT4)-mediated substrate ubiquitination, ATG14-dependent autophagosome initiation, and RETREG1-driven reticulophagy, with context-dependent effects on tumor proliferation. ② Drug resistance: TRIM21 enhances oxaliplatin sensitivity by ubiquitinating and degrading G6PD (the rate-limiting enzyme of the pentose phosphate pathway), while its role in sorafenib resistance involves dual pathways-the MST1/YAP axis and the ApoE/cholesterol/PI3K-AKT cascade. ③ Metastasis suppression: TRIM21 restricts HCC invasion and metastasis by ubiquitinating key oncoproteins, preserving epithelial integrity and inhibiting mesenchymal transition. ④ Reactive oxygen species (ROS) balance: TRIM21 regulates oxidative stress in HCC via the SQSTM1/p62-Keap1-NRF2 axis, coordinating with HIF1α to modulate antioxidant responses and tumor cell survival. Additionally, we discuss the regulatory significance of TRIM21 in HCC associated with hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection (via HBx/DNA polymerase ubiquitination) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) (via suppressing lipogenic enzymes to reduce steatosis-driven carcinogenesis). This review provides a theoretical basis for TRIM21 as a potential diagnostic marker and therapeutic target for HCC. Show less
APOE polymorphisms are major genetic risk factors of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Compared with APOE3/E3, the APOE4/E4 genotype is associated with a > 14-fold increased risk. Therefore, we hypothesized t Show more
APOE polymorphisms are major genetic risk factors of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Compared with APOE3/E3, the APOE4/E4 genotype is associated with a > 14-fold increased risk. Therefore, we hypothesized that conversion of APOE4 to APOE3 would ameliorate AD-related pathologies. Accordingly, we generated a knock-in mouse model harboring an APOE4-FLEx (Flip-Excision) 4-to-3 construct enabling postnatal Cre-mediated APOE4-to-APOE3 switching. This construct comprised an APOE3 exon inserted in a reverse orientation downstream of the APOE4 exon, flanked by alternating loxP and mutant loxP sites, allowing Cre-mediated FLEx switching from APOE4-to-APOE3. For in vitro validation, HEK293T cells were transfected with APOE4-FLEx 4-to-3 plasmid, followed by AAV8-mediated iCre delivery. For in vivo studies, endogenous Apoe was replaced with the APOE4-FLEx 4-to-3 construct to generate APOE4-FLEx 4-to-3 knock-in mice, which were crossed with tamoxifen-inducible Rosa26-CreERT2 mice to yield Cre: APOE4-FLEx 4-to-3 double-knock-in mice. Tamoxifen was administered to induce APOE switching. Cre expression successfully induced APOE4-to-APOE3 switching in vitro. Tamoxifen administration in Cre: APOE4-FLEx 4-to-3 mice triggered APOE4-to-APOE3 switching in the liver, demonstrating the feasibility of postnatal isoform switching. However, brain APOE protein levels were below the detection limit. Investigation of the underlying cause involving transcript analysis revealed aberrant retention of intron 3 (APOE-I3). This abnormal splicing probably contributed to the decreased expression of fully spliced, translation-competent (mature) APOE mRNA, driving the subsequent protein reduction. Although APOE expression across organs in APOE4-FLEx 4-to-3 mice requires further optimization, our findings demonstrate that Cre-mediated FLEx switching can serve as a potential strategy to induce APOE genotype switching in vivo. Show less
KRAS We studied short-term changes in signaling and mechanisms of primary resistance to AZD4625 in twelve KRAS Sustained tumor regression in four (33%) PDXs was observed while the remaining eight mode Show more
KRAS We studied short-term changes in signaling and mechanisms of primary resistance to AZD4625 in twelve KRAS Sustained tumor regression in four (33%) PDXs was observed while the remaining eight models were intrinsically resistant to AZD4625. Organoid responses to AZD4625 were concordant with their derived PDXs. Acute AZD4625 exposure significantly decreased gene expression of the ERK1/2 negative regulator, DUSP6, in all models while protein MAPK and AKT/mTOR signals were downregulated more frequently in the AZD4625-sensitive than AZD4625-resistant cohorts. Analyzing PDX transcriptomes and proteomes identified mTOR signaling as a putative mechanism of primary resistance to AZD4625. Our findings confirm AZD4625 as a highly active KRAS Show less
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
Atherosclerosis (AS) is a chronic vascular disease and the principal cause leading to ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM). It involves complex metabolic dysregulation beyond the resolution of single-omics. Show more
Atherosclerosis (AS) is a chronic vascular disease and the principal cause leading to ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM). It involves complex metabolic dysregulation beyond the resolution of single-omics. Emerging evidence implicates arginine-proline metabolism (APM) in driving inflammation and impairing efferocytosis, yet the cellular basis of plaque instability remains elusive. We employed a five-stage analytical framework. First, metabolomic profiling revealed shared pathways between AS and ICM. Second, single-cell RNA sequencing identified APM-enriched macrophage subtypes in both diseases. Pseudotime analysis, Scissor algorithm, and cell-cell communication analyses linked these subtypes to APM signaling, stroke prognosis, and key ligand-receptor interactions. Third, cNMF and unsupervised clustering defined APM-related gene signatures in macrophages, validated by survival analysis. Fourth, spatial transcriptomics confirmed their spatial distribution and colocalization within unstable plaques. Finally, key biomarkers were validated in atherosclerotic lesions using ApoE Metabolomic profiling revealed APM as a shared dysregulated pathway in AS and ICM. We identified a macrophage subset (SPP1⁺ macrophages and mono-macrophages), termed APM_high macrophages, enriched in the fibrous cap and characterized by elevated collagenase activity, heightened inflammation, and disrupted cholesterol homeostasis. Spatial and cell-cell communication analyses revealed strong interactions with dendritic cells via the MIF-(CD74 + CXCR4) axis, potentially contributing to plaque destabilization. Transcriptomic clustering uncovered a high-APM plaque subtype associated with worse ischemic outcomes. Six diagnostic biomarkers were identified through machine learning and validated across multiple cohorts and in ApoE In summary, our study decodes the metabolic basis of inflammation shared between AS and ICM, suggesting an APM_high macrophage-centered regulatory axis across multiple omics layers. This work advances our understanding of the cardio-metabolic axis and suggests new avenues for targeted therapy. Show less
The presence of a blood-brain barrier (BBB) prevents the delivery of most drugs to the brain. This characteristic limitation poses a major challenge to effective pharmacological treatment for numerous Show more
The presence of a blood-brain barrier (BBB) prevents the delivery of most drugs to the brain. This characteristic limitation poses a major challenge to effective pharmacological treatment for numerous neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer's disease. Delivering small interfering RNA (siRNA) via nanoparticles represents a highly promising approach for treating Alzheimer's disease. Nevertheless, developing a safe and efficient siRNA delivery system remains challenging. To enhance brain targeting and therapeutic efficacy, we developed an siRNA nanocarrier system based on PAH-AM-PEG-ApoE (PAPA) nanoparticles (PAPA/siRNA NPs), which facilitates BBB penetration. In this study, an siRNA nanocarrier delivery system modified with ApoE peptide (PAPA/siRNA NPs) developed by our research team was employed to simultaneously encapsulate BACE1-siRNA and GSK3β-siRNA. The PAPA/siRNA NPs were prepared through self-assembly and electrostatic binding. The particle size distribution profile and zeta potential of the PAPA/siRNA NPs were analysed with dynamic light scattering, while its morphology was examined with transmission electron microscopy. For in vitro assessments, flow cytometry, confocal laser scanning microscopy, PCR, and Western blotting were employed to evaluate the cellular uptake, gene silencing capacity, and endosomal escape. The biodistribution was investigated by in vivo imaging technology, and the therapeutic effect on AD was verified in AD model mice. The prepared PAPA/siRNA NPs exhibited a regular spherical appearance with a uniform particle size distribution profile. In in vitro cell experiments, the PAPA/siRNA NPs demonstrated excellent cellular uptake ability and efficient endosomal escape. Meanwhile, the dual-loaded siRNA nanocarrier delivery system effectively inhibited the expression of GSK3β and BACE1 genes. In vivo experimental results showed that the siRNA could successfully cross the BBB and deliver to the brain. It not only significantly prolonged the half-life of siRNA but also greatly reduced the generation of pathological β-amyloid and phosphorylated microtubule-associated protein tau, showing excellent therapeutic effects in the treatment of AD. In this study, we successfully constructed a brain-targeted siRNA nanocarrier delivery system for double-gene knockdown. This system can efficiently overcome the obstacle of the BBB, markedly alleviating cognitive and memory deficits in AD mice. It paves the way for novel strategies in the clinical treatment of AD and is expected to bring new breakthroughs and changes to the conquest of this disease. Show less
This study aimed to investigate the current status of career calling among novice nurses, to identify potential subtypes and their population characteristics, and to further explore the factors associ Show more
This study aimed to investigate the current status of career calling among novice nurses, to identify potential subtypes and their population characteristics, and to further explore the factors associated with the different subtypes. A cross-sectional descriptive study was used. From January to February 2024, 845 novice nurses from 11 hospitals in Shanxi Province were selected for an online questionnaire survey using convenience sampling. The demographic questionnaire, transition shock of newly graduated nurses scale, medical staff resilience scale, and career calling scale were used as study instruments. Latent profile analysis (LPA) was used to explore the subtypes of novice nurses' career calling, and multifactorial logistic regression was used to analyze the related factors of novice nurses' career calling. Three subtypes of career calling of novice nurses in this study were identified, namely, lacking-calling group (10.3%), stable-calling group (50.0%), and sufficient-calling group (39.7%). Education, weekly working hours, weekly frequency of night shifts, reasons for choosing nursing, level of transition shock, and level of resilience were significantly associated with the three latent profiles of career calling of novice nurses in this study. Novice nurses' career calling presents 3 latent profiles and is heterogeneous in this study. Nursing administrators could pay attention to the differences in the level of career calling of novice nurses and adopt targeted management strategies based on the type of characteristics of the population in order to improve the level of career calling of novice nurses, help them develop their careers, and stabilize the nursing workforce. Show less
Parents of children with congenital heart disease (CHD) face chronic stress impairing family functioning and well-being. As a key protective factor, family resilience aids their adaptation. However, e Show more
Parents of children with congenital heart disease (CHD) face chronic stress impairing family functioning and well-being. As a key protective factor, family resilience aids their adaptation. However, existing research predominantly measures general family resilience, neglecting heterogeneous resilience patterns and subgroup profiles. Our study uses person-centered Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) to identify latent family resilience classes in Chinese culture to provide tailored support. This study adopted a cross-sectional survey design. From October 2024 to July 2025, convenience sampling was used to recruit 426 eligible parents of children with CHD from two tertiary hospitals in Yunnan Province, China. Data were collected using the General Information Questionnaire, Family Hardiness Index (FHI), Simplified Coping Style Questionnaire (SCSQ), and Social Support Rating Scale (SSRS). LPA was applied to classify the family resilience levels of these parents. Subsequently, univariate and multivariate ordinal logistic regression analyses were conducted to explore the factors associated with different latent classes of family resilience. A total of 400 valid questionnaires were collected, with an effective response rate of 93.9%. The mean total score for family resilience in parents of children with CHD was 58.13 ± 5.79, suggesting a moderate overall level of family resilience in this group. The family resilience of parents of children with CHD was classified into three latent profiles: “High family resilience responsibility-anchored type” ( Parents of children with CHD demonstrate heterogeneity in family resilience. Healthcare professionals should pay attention to the family resilience differences among parents of children with CHD and implement targeted intervention measures based on the characteristics of different subgroups, thereby enhancing parents’ family resilience and further promoting family well-being. The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-025-26143-0. Show less
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays an important role in the survival of dopaminergic neurons. Clinical studies have suggested that serum BDNF levels are reduced in patients with Parkinson' Show more
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays an important role in the survival of dopaminergic neurons. Clinical studies have suggested that serum BDNF levels are reduced in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). However, no study has investigated peripheral BDNF levels and BDNF Val66Met polymorphism in the prodromal stage of PD and their relationship with disease conversion. In total, 120 patients with video-polysomnography confirmed isolated REM sleep behavior disorder (iRBD) and 120 healthy controls (HCs) were enrolled. Genetic analyses were performed, and plasma levels of BDNF were measured. All patients with iRBD underwent comprehensive clinical testing, and 107 iRBD patients were prospectively followed up. Plasma BDNF levels were significantly lower in the iRBD group than in HCs (18,878.85 pg/mL vs. 24,649.85 pg/mL, p = 0.002), but no differences were observed in BDNF Val66Met carrier rates between the two groups. Plasma BDNF levels did not differ significantly between BDNF Val66Met carriers and noncarriers. Notably, higher plasma BDNF levels were associated with an increased risk of short-term disease conversion (hazard ratio = 3.418, 95% CI: 1.520-7.684, p = 0.003), whereas BDNF Val66Met carrier rates showed no such association. Our findings suggest that plasma BDNF is significantly associated with iRBD and may likely serve as a prognostic biomarker for the development of neurodegenerative disease. However, the BDNF Val66Met polymorphism may not be involved in the pathogenesis of iRBD as well as phenoconversion in the studied population. Show less
The polyphenols in grains are highly active, but some polyphenols in highland barley are in a bound form and have extremely low bioavailability. Fermentation by lactic acid bacteria (LAB) is capable o Show more
The polyphenols in grains are highly active, but some polyphenols in highland barley are in a bound form and have extremely low bioavailability. Fermentation by lactic acid bacteria (LAB) is capable of altering the functionality of foods. This research investigated the effects of fermentation with different LAB, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus (LAC), Lactobacillus casei (LCA), Lactobacillus rhamnosus (LRH), Lactobacillus plantarum (LPL), and Lactobacillus bulgaricus (LBU), on the hypoglycemic activity and mechanism of polyphenols in highland barley. The hypoglycemic activity of the fermentation products was measured by in vitro antioxidant, enzyme activity, and glucose consumption experiments. Untargeted metabolomic analysis used UHPLC-Q Exactive HF-X/MS to reveal distinct metabolic profiles among the fermented groups. Molecular docking and western blot experiments were conducted to elucidate the mechanism underlying the hypoglycemic effect of fermentation products. Polyphenolic antioxidant activity in highland barley and its inhibitory activities against α-glucosidase and α-amylase were increased after LAC fermentation. Furthermore, the fermented extracts improved glucose consumption in HepG2 cells. The content determination and metabolomic analysis showed that fermented highland barley polyphenols were increased, and 113 differential phenolic metabolites were identified and annotated, among which 44 exhibited a significant upregulation compared with raw highland barley polyphenols. At the molecular level, the polyphenol extract upregulated PI3K and phosphorylated Akt expression in HepG2 cells. Overall, the results indicate that fermentation by LAC biotransformed highland barley polyphenols into smaller molecules with improved hypoglycemic activities, thereby enhancing their bioavailability. Show less
Families with children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often encounter significant challenges, manifesting in elevated stress levels and compromised physical and mental well-being. This Show more
Families with children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often encounter significant challenges, manifesting in elevated stress levels and compromised physical and mental well-being. This study employed Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) to comprehensively examine family resilience attributes among 328 Chinese parents of children with ASD. Drawing on Walsh's family resilience framework and the Double ABCX stress-adaptation model, the research examined how protective factors (social support, posttraumatic growth) and risk factors (family stressors) distinctively characterize resilience profiles and predict profile membership, alongside sociodemographic correlates. Through rigorous statistical analysis, the following three distinct family resilience profiles emerged: adversity (32.31%; characterized by low resilience), ordinary (46.65%; demonstrating moderate resilience) and growth (21.03%; exhibiting high resilience). Critically, the findings revealed that higher family income, perceived social support and posttraumatic growth were associated with higher family resilience, while family stressors were associated with lower family resilience. These insights underscore the importance of developing targeted, personalized intervention strategies that can effectively enhance familial coping mechanisms and psychological adaptation for families navigating the complex challenges of ASD. Show less
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by amyloid-beta plaques, tau tangles, and neuroinflammation. C-X3-C motif chemokine ligand 1 (CX3CL1, also known as fractalkine), a neuroimmune chemokine impl Show more
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by amyloid-beta plaques, tau tangles, and neuroinflammation. C-X3-C motif chemokine ligand 1 (CX3CL1, also known as fractalkine), a neuroimmune chemokine implicated in AD pathogenesis, shows inconsistent alterations in plasma/serum across studies. Specifically examining age-dependency and diagnostic utility, we investigated plasma CX3CL1 levels across the cognitive continuum (cognitively normal [CN], amnestic mild cognitive impairment [aMCI], AD) in a Chinese cohort. A total of 443 participants, including 130 patients with AD, 72 patients with aMCI, and 99 age-and sex-matched CN controls, as well as a cohort of 142 CN subjects of different ages, were enrolled from Chongqing General Hospital. Plasma CX3CL1 levels were determined using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Apolipoprotein E genotypes (APOE) were performed. The correlations between Plasma CX3CL1 levels and cognition test scores or age were analyzed. The optimal diagnostic sensitivity and specificity were determined using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Plasma CX3CL1 levels significantly increased with age in CN individuals. No significant sex difference was found. Plasma CX3CL1 levels did not differ significantly between APOE ε4 carriers and non-carriers. Stepwise elevation across continuum: CX3CL1 levels showed a significant stepwise increase: CN controls (1.73 ± 0.51 ng/mL) < aMCI (2.40 ± 1.06 ng/mL) < AD (4.15 ± 1.24 ng/mL) (p < 0.001 between all groups). This pattern persisted in both male and female subgroups, between the AD group and the aMCI group, between the AD group and the CN control group (p < 0.001), between the aMCI group and the CN control group, and between the male and female subgroups (p < 0.05). CX3CL1 levels negatively correlated with Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores and positively correlated with age. Plasma CX3CL1 levels exhibit a significant age-dependent increase in cognitively normal individuals, peak in midlife (40-49 years), and demonstrate a stepwise elevation across the AD continuum (CN → aMCI → AD). Strong inverse correlations with cognitive scores in disease groups and high diagnostic accuracy for AD, particularly against CN, support its role as a biomarker reflecting both physiological aging and AD-related pathological decline. Its regulation appears independent of APOE ε4 status. The midlife peak suggests potential relevance for preclinical processes, warranting further investigation of CX3CL1 as a biomarker and therapeutic target. Show less