Fusion genes are pivotal drivers of tumorigenesis, often generating oncogenic chimeric RNAs and fusion circular RNAs. However, the mechanisms by which these transcripts synergistically contribute to c Show more
Fusion genes are pivotal drivers of tumorigenesis, often generating oncogenic chimeric RNAs and fusion circular RNAs. However, the mechanisms by which these transcripts synergistically contribute to cancer progression remain poorly understood. Here, we identified a lung cancer-specific chimeric RNA KANSL1-ARL17A (chKANSARL) and its circular variant fusion circular RNA KANSL1-ARL17 A (F-circKA), both derived from the fusion gene KANSARL. Functional assays revealed that overexpression of either chKANSARL or F-circKA significantly enhanced lung cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, while their knockdown suppressed these malignant phenotypes. In vivo experiments demonstrated that chKANSARL overexpression accelerated tumor growth in immunodeficient mice. Notably, coexpression experiments uncovered a synergistic regulatory interaction between F-circKA and chKANSARL, amplifying oncogenic effects. Mechanistically, miRNA sequencing and dual-luciferase assays revealed that F-circKA acts as a molecular sponge for miR-6860, thereby derepressing chKANSARL expression. Rescue experiments further validated this regulatory axis, wherein miR-6860 inhibition reversed the tumor-suppressive effects of F-circKA knockdown. Collectively, our study identifies and characterizes a novel F-circKA/miR-6860/chKANSARL regulatory axis, revealing how dual transcriptional outputs from the KANSARL fusion gene can synergistically drive lung cancer progression. These findings highlight a previously unrecognized layer of cooperative regulation between linear and circular fusion RNAs in oncogenesis and provide a new framework for understanding fusion gene-mediated tumorigenesis. Show less
The mammalian class III phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase complex (PtdIns3K) forms two biochemically and functionally distinct subcomplexes including the ATG14-containing complex I (PtdIns3K-C1) and the U Show more
The mammalian class III phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase complex (PtdIns3K) forms two biochemically and functionally distinct subcomplexes including the ATG14-containing complex I (PtdIns3K-C1) and the UVRAG-containing complex II (PtdIns3K-C2). Both subcomplexes adopt a V-shaped architecture with a BECN1-ATG14 or UVRAG adaptor arm and a PIK3R4/VPS15-PIK3C3/VPS34 catalytic arm. NRBF2 is a pro-autophagic modulator that specifically associates with PtdIns3K-C1 to enhance its kinase activity and promotes macroautophagy/autophagy. How NRBF2 exerts such a positive effect is not fully understood. Here we report that NRBF2 binds to PIK3R4/VPS15 with moderate affinity through a conserved site on its N-terminal MIT domain. The NRBF2-PIK3R4/VPS15 interaction is incompatible with the UVRAG-containing PtdIns3K-C2 because the C2 domain of UVRAG outcompetes NRBF2 for PIK3R4/VPS15 binding. Our crystal structure of the NRBF2 coiled-coil (CC) domain reveals a symmetric homodimer with multiple hydrophobic pairings at the CC interface, which is in distinct contrast to the asymmetric dimer observed in the yeast ortholog Atg38. Mutations in the CC domain that rendered NRBF2 monomeric led to weakened binding to PIK3R4/VPS15 and only partial rescue of autophagy deficiency in Show less
Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer, with metastasis accounting for the majority of cancer-related deaths. The mechanisms of early-stage breast cancer metastasis to regional immune s Show more
Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer, with metastasis accounting for the majority of cancer-related deaths. The mechanisms of early-stage breast cancer metastasis to regional immune sites like lymph nodes remain elusive. Here, we performed an in-depth proteomic and phosphoproteomic analysis of a substantial series of breast cancer samples, alongside genomic and transcriptomic evaluations. This cohort encompasses 195 specimens: 65 primary breast tumors, their corresponding normal tissues, and metastatic axillary lymph nodes. We offer an overview of the molecular alterations at the transcriptomic, proteomic, and phosphoproteomic levels during lymph node metastasis. Notably, the findings indicate that regional lymph node metastasis is primarily influenced by proteomic and phosphoproteomic alterations, rather than genomic or transcriptomic changes. We found the ANGPTL4 and HMGB1 could serve as the biomarker of lymph node metastasis. Data analysis and cell experiments involving silencing of the alternative splicing factor HNRNPU demonstrated that alternative splicing plays a significant role in modulating protein expression, phosphorylation profiles and cell proliferation. The key phosphorylation sites, including MARCKSL1-S104 and FKBP15-S320, as well as the upstream kinase PRKCB, were identified as playing crucial roles in breast cancer lymph node metastasis. Targeted intervention of the kinase PRKCB resulted in effectively suppressing the proliferation and metastasis of breast cancer tumor cells. Immune profiling analysis and experimental validation of breast cancer cell cocultured with CD8+ T cell reveals correlations between phosphorylation of MARCKSL1-S104 and FKBP15-S320 with immune checkpoint PD-L1 expression, and their impact on tumor cell apoptosis, suggesting a potential mechanism of immune evasion in metastasis. This study systematically characterizes the molecular landscape and features of primary breast tumors and their matched metastatic lymph nodes. These insights enhance our understanding of early-stage breast cancer metastasis and may pave the way for improved diagnostic tools and targeted therapeutic strategies. Show less
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a heterogeneous neurodegenerative disorder. Notably, the differences in lipid metabolism between bulbar- and limb-onset subtypes of ALS remain unclear, particula Show more
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a heterogeneous neurodegenerative disorder. Notably, the differences in lipid metabolism between bulbar- and limb-onset subtypes of ALS remain unclear, particularly in non-Western populations. The present study investigated serum lipid profiles in a Chinese cohort of patients with ALS to explore their associations with disease severity and clinical subtypes. A retrospective, cross-sectional study was conducted, involving 158 patients with ALS and 62 matched healthy controls. Serum lipid parameters, including total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), small dense LDL cholesterol (sdLDL-c), apolipoprotein A-1 (ApoA1), apolipoprotein B (ApoB) and the TG/HDL ratio, were compared between the groups. Correlation analyses and multivariable linear regression models incorporating phenotype x lipid interaction terms were conducted after adjusting for age, sex, body mass index and disease duration. Patients with ALS exhibited significantly higher TC, TG, LDL, sdLDL-c, ApoA1, ApoB and TG/HDL ratios than controls. Subtype-specific analyses revealed different associations; in bulbar-onset ALS, higher sdLDL-c and TG/HDL ratios were associated with better functional status, whereas higher HDL and ApoA1 levels were negatively correlated with functional status. By contrast, in limb-onset ALS, higher sdLDL-c and ApoB levels were associated with worse function. Interaction analyses confirmed significant phenotype modification for sdLDL-c, TG/HDL ratio, HDL and ApoA1. These results suggest that lipid-severity relationships in ALS vary by subtype, indicating metabolic heterogeneity across phenotypes and supporting the potential of specific lipid parameters as exploratory markers for disease monitoring. Show less
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder involving multiple pathological processes. Bergapten (BeG) exhibits various pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, ant Show more
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder involving multiple pathological processes. Bergapten (BeG) exhibits various pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and neuroprotective effects, but its mechanism of action in PD remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective effects and underlying mechanisms of BeG in PD models. An in vitro neuroinflammation model was established using LPS-treated astrocytes. In-vitro studies demonstrated that BeG counteracted LPS-induced astrocyte activation by reducing the expressions of GFAP, inflammatory mediators (IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1β), and A1 polarization markers. It alleviated ERS (as indicated by reduced levels of GRP78, CHOP) and apoptosis (as shown by changes in Bax, caspase-3) while enhancing Bcl-2. Mechanistically, BeG suppressed LCN2 expression and JAK2/STAT3 phosphorylation, with LCN2 overexpression attenuating its protective effects. In MPTP-treated mice, BeG improved motor function, preserved dopaminergic neurons, and reduced astrocyte activation and A1 polarization. It increased neurotrophic factors (BDNF, GDNF) while decreasing inflammation, ER stress and apoptotic markers. The inhibition of the LCN2/JAK2/STAT3 pathway was consistently observed in both models, suggesting its central role in BeG's neuroprotective mechanism. These findings suggest that BeG exerts neuroprotective effects in PD by inhibiting the LCN2/JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway, thereby effectively inhibiting astrocyte activation-mediated neuroinflammation and ERS. Show less
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a prevalent liver disorder driven by metabolic dysregulation and chronic inflammation, for which targeted pharmacotherapies remain limited. Rutin, a bioact Show more
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a prevalent liver disorder driven by metabolic dysregulation and chronic inflammation, for which targeted pharmacotherapies remain limited. Rutin, a bioactive flavonoid from Sophora japonica and Fagopyrum esculentum, possesses notable anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This study explored its pharmacological effects and underlying mechanism in NAFLD using a combination of in vivo and in vitro approaches. We found that rutin administration markedly attenuated hepatic steatosis, reduced oxidative stress, restored mitochondrial function, and improved liver injury markers, including alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), in both high-fat diet (HFD)-fed ApoE Show less
Acetylation, a key post-translational modification, is dynamically regulated by histone acetyltransferases (HATs) and histone deacetylases (HDACs). Among HDACs, HDAC6-a class II deacetylase with predo Show more
Acetylation, a key post-translational modification, is dynamically regulated by histone acetyltransferases (HATs) and histone deacetylases (HDACs). Among HDACs, HDAC6-a class II deacetylase with predominant cytoplasmic localization-plays a unique role in cellular processes that extend beyond histone modification. It is ubiquitously expressed throughout the central and peripheral nervous systems and is integral to key physiological functions including protein quality control, autophagy, mitochondrial transport, and oxidative stress responses. Notably, under pathological conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, epilepsy, and peripheral nerve injury, HDAC6 undergoes nuclear translocation and contributes to epigenetic dysregulation by modulating the transcription of genes such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor, thereby impairing synaptic integrity and function. This dual role-cytoplasmic in protein homeostasis and nuclear in transcriptional regulation-highlights the HDAC6 paradox in neurological disorders. This review summarizes recent understanding of HDAC6's structure, expression, and functions within the nervous system, and discuss how targeting HDAC6 with selective inhibitors offers a promising therapeutic strategy for mitigating neurological disease pathogenesis. The goal is to provide insights that bridge HDAC6's roles in protein quality control and epigenetic regulation, fostering further exploration of HDAC6 inhibition in neurologic therapeutics. Show less
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a highly prevalent chronic liver disease worldwide and is closely associated with obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders. Show more
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a highly prevalent chronic liver disease worldwide and is closely associated with obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders. Because MASLD progression poses serious health risks, elucidating the underlying mechanisms is essential to guide early intervention and therapeutic strategies. Proteomic analysis was used to identity high-fat diet (HFD)-induced proteins in mouse liver. Galectin-1 (GAL1) expression was assessed via immunohistochemistry in human liver tissues. Liver-specific GAL1-deficient mice were generated using adeno-associated virus. Mice were fed either a chow diet or an HFD. Functional studies were performed in cell lines using western blotting, RT-qPCR, immunofluorescence, co-immunoprecipitation, mass spectrometry, and molecular docking analysis. GAL1 expression was elevated in liver tissues from patients with MASLD and in mouse models. Liver-specific GAL1 knockdown alleviated hepatic steatosis and enhanced fatty acid oxidation (FAO). Mechanistically, GAL1 competitively bound to the BRCT domain of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1), thereby interfering with its interaction with the WW domain -containing E3 ubiquitin protein ligase 2 (WWP2). Hepatic GAL1 knockdown promoted the PARP1 -WWP2 interaction and subsequently facilitated ubiquitin-dependent degradation of PARP1. This degradation led to increased NAD Hepatic deficiency of GAL1 alleviates hepatic steatosis by enhancing FAO through promotion of ubiquitin-dependent PARP1 degradation, thereby restoring NAD Show less
This study evaluated the efficacy of combining personalized acupuncture with accelerated deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (adTMS) for mild cognitive impairment (MCI). In this randomized, double- Show more
This study evaluated the efficacy of combining personalized acupuncture with accelerated deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (adTMS) for mild cognitive impairment (MCI). In this randomized, double-blind, controlled trial, 120 MCI patients were assigned to a Combined group (personalized acupuncture + active adTMS), a Single Stimulation group (active adTMS + sham acupuncture), or a Placebo group (sham TMS + sham acupuncture). The primary outcome was the change in Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score at 12 weeks. Secondary outcomes included P300 latency, magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) NAA/Cr ratio, serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and the Modified Barthel Index (MBI). The Combined group showed a significantly greater improvement in MoCA scores (3.2 ± 1.3 points) compared to the Single Stimulation (1.9 ± 1.2 points; mean difference 1.3, 95 % CI 0.4 to 2.2) and Placebo groups (1.1 ± 1.0 points; mean difference 2.1, 95 % CI 1.2 to 3.0). The Combined group also demonstrated greater reductions in P300 latency and increases in NAA/Cr ratio and serum BDNF levels than the other groups. The combination of personalized acupuncture and adTMS significantly improves cognitive function in MCI patients, supported by positive changes in electrophysiological and metabolic markers. This integrative approach represents a promising non-pharmacological strategy for MCI.Trial registration: International Traditional Medicine Clinical Trials Registry (ITMCTR2025000652). Show less
Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory condition marked by the deposition of lipids within the arterial wall and the infiltration of inflammatory cells, culminating in the development of atheroscle Show more
Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory condition marked by the deposition of lipids within the arterial wall and the infiltration of inflammatory cells, culminating in the development of atherosclerotic plaques. Ubiquitin-specific protease 18, USP18, a specific deubiquitinating enzyme, has been demonstrated to exert protective effects on the cardiovascular system. Pathological studies were performed utilizing human coronary arteries obtained from the Forensic Medical Examination Center of Guizhou Medical University, in conjunction with the aorta from experimental ApoE knockout mice. The ApoE knockout mice underwent intervention with adenovirus carrying USP18-RNAi and a control adenovirus containing hU6-MCS-CMV-EGFP, after which pathological analyses were conducted. In vitro, THP-1 cells, induced with phorbol ester, were subjected to treatment with si-USP18 or si-NC, followed by exposure to oxidized low-density lipoprotein. The expression levels of USP18 and proteins associated with the TAK1/NF-κB signaling pathway, as well as the interaction between USP18 and TAK1, were assessed using Western blotting, RT-PCR, and immunofluorescence techniques.The interaction between USP18 and TAK1 was confirmed using molecular docking techniques, co-immunoprecipitation assays, and immunofluorescence analysis. The purpose of this study is to explore the role of USP18 on atherosclerosis and the underlying mechanism. The expression of USP18 is elevated in early-stage human coronary atherosclerotic plaques but decreases in advanced lesions. Treatment of macrophages derived from THP-1 cells and bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) results in reduced USP18 expression. In ApoE USP18 modulates TAK1 to suppress the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway in macrophages, consequently exerting an anti-atherosclerotic effect and offering a potential therapeutic strategy for atherosclerosis treatment. Show less
The high global prevalence of anxiety disorders, coupled with the limitations of existing treatments, constitutes a severe public health challenge. Chronic stress, as a core environmental trigger, has Show more
The high global prevalence of anxiety disorders, coupled with the limitations of existing treatments, constitutes a severe public health challenge. Chronic stress, as a core environmental trigger, has garnered increasing attention for its mechanism of mediating brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) imbalance through neuroinflammation. BDNF dysregulation may contribute to anxiety disorders, particularly in subtypes with heightened neuroinflammation. The objective of this review is to comprehensively and methodically explores the potential role of the "M1-like microglia-A1-like astrocyte axis (M1-A1 axis)" in linking chronic stress to BDNF dysregulation in anxiety disorders, and to provide a theoretical basis for intervention strategies targeting this axis. By synthesizing recent relevant clinical and preclinical evidence, this review integrates evidence from molecular to systems levels, focusing on the activation mechanisms of neuroinflammation under chronic stress, the crosstalk between glial cells, and their regulatory network on BDNF. Chronic stress is associated with peripheral and central cascades through hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activation and gut microbiota disruption. Within the central nervous system (CNS), stress induces microglial polarization toward the pro-inflammatory microglial subpopulations (hereinafter referred to as M1-like microglia). The signals released by M1-like microglia, such as Interleukin-1 alpha (IL-1α), Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α), and Complement Component 1q (C1q) (ITC), drive astrocytes to transform into the neurotoxic astrocyte states (hereinafter referred to as A1-like astrocyte), forming the "M1-A1 axis". This axis contributes to BDNF dysregulation through the following mechanisms: (1) Release of pro-inflammatory cytokines inhibits BDNF transcription and translation; (2) Induction of astrocytic lactate metabolism disruption, which impairs neuronal energy supply and acidifies the microenvironment, further amplifying inflammation and affecting BDNF expression; (3) Compromise of the blood-brain barrier(BBB)enables peripheral immune cells to penetrate into the CNS, and these cells work in synergy with central glial cells to amplify inflammation. The reduction in BDNF and the imbalance in the ratio of its precursor to mature form ultimately lead to impaired synaptic plasticity in brain regions like the hippocampus (HIP) and amygdala, precipitating anxiety-like behaviors. Existing pharmacological interventions are inadequate to reverse this pathological process. The M1-A1 axis may serve as a key node linking chronic stress to BDNF dysregulation and anxiety disorders. Targeting the phenotypic transformation of glial cells, repairing the BBB, or modulating glial cell metabolism (e.g., lactate shuttle) may represent potential strategies requiring further validation. Future research should focus on the spatiotemporal dynamics of this axis and its clinical translation. Show less
To elucidate the molecular mechanism by which ginsenoside Rg3 (G-Rg3) protects human bronchial epithelial (HBE) cells against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced injury, focusing on its regulation of aut Show more
To elucidate the molecular mechanism by which ginsenoside Rg3 (G-Rg3) protects human bronchial epithelial (HBE) cells against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced injury, focusing on its regulation of autophagic flux and the TLR4/NF-κB-mediated inflammatory pathway. HBE cells were treated with LPS (1-100 ng/mL) to induce autophagy dysregulation and inflammation. G-Rg3 (2-16 μM) was administered to evaluate its protective effects. Western blotting was used to detect autophagy-related proteins (ATG4B, ATG7, PIK3C3, LC3B, p62) and TLR4/NF-κB signaling molecules; ELISA quantified proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-8); PI staining and flow cytometry analyzed cell death and apoptosis. LPS dose-dependently upregulated the expression of autophagy-related proteins (ATG4B, ATG7, PIK3C3, p62, LC3B-II), with accumulated p62 and LC3B-II indicating impaired clearance of autophagic substrates. Additionally, G-Rg3 inhibited LPS-induced TLR4/NF-κB activation, suppressed proinflammatory cytokine secretion, and attenuated HBE cell apoptosis/necrosis. G-Rg3 mitigates LPS-induced HBE cell injury by dual mechanisms: restoring impaired autophagic flux and inhibiting the TLR4/NF-κB inflammatory cascade. These findings identify G-Rg3 as a promising therapeutic agent targeting the crosstalk between autophagy and inflammation in respiratory diseases such as COPD and acute lung injury. Show less
Anoikis resistance and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) are crucial factors in tumor invasiveness and metastasis in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Identifying anoikis-EMT-related genes could be be Show more
Anoikis resistance and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) are crucial factors in tumor invasiveness and metastasis in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Identifying anoikis-EMT-related genes could be beneficial for predicting prognosis and immunotherapeutic efficacy in patients with LUAD. This study aims to establish and validate a novel prognostic signature based on anoikis-EMT-related genes for LUAD and to identify the potential biomarkers encapsulated within it. Anoikis-related genes and EMT-related genes were retrieved from the GeneCards and dbEMT 2.0 databases. Univariate Cox regression analysis and principal component analysis (PCA) were conducted to define anoikis and EMT levels. Gene expression and clinical information of patients with LUAD were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases. Univariate Cox regression and multivariate Cox regression analyses were conducted to construct a risk score model. Immune correlation and drug sensitivity analyses were performed to investigate the association of the risk score with the immune profile and antitumor treatment. Three essential genes in the model were examined for messenger RNA (mRNA) expression by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and for protein levels via the Human Protein Atlas (HPA) database. LUAD patients demonstrating low Anoikis Potential Index (API) combined with high EMT Potential Index (EPI) exhibited the poorest overall survival (OS). We further constructed a nine-gene prognostic risk model that combines anoikis and EMT. High-risk patients demonstrated significantly shorter survival duration. The clinical-prognostic nomogram accurately predicted outcomes at 1, 3, and 5 years. In addition, patients in low-risk group demonstrated superior immune responses to treatment and were more sensitive to commonly used chemotherapy drugs. Our validation studies confirmed upregulated expression of ANGPTL4, SLC2A1, and BIRC5 in LUAD, observed at both transcriptional and translational levels. The anoikis-EMT-based risk model effectively forecasts both OS and immunotherapy response in LUAD patients, accelerating the identification of groundbreaking molecular biomarkers and prospective molecular targets. Show less
This study aims to systematically investigate the multi-target mechanisms of cobalamin in the treatment of ischemic stroke using network pharmacology and molecular docking approaches. We screened data Show more
This study aims to systematically investigate the multi-target mechanisms of cobalamin in the treatment of ischemic stroke using network pharmacology and molecular docking approaches. We screened databases to identify the targets of cobalamin and performed intersected with with ischemic stroke-related targets to construct a “drug-target-disease” interaction network. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses were conducted to identify key biological processes and signaling pathways. Additionally, molecular docking simulations were performed to assess the binding affinity between cobalamin and hub proteins. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were used to assess the stability of the protein–ligand complexes over a 500 ns simulation period. Additionally, ADME (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion) and blood–brain barrier (BBB) permeability predictions were made using ADMETlab 3.0 and admetSAR 3.0. A total of 95 therapeutic targets of cobalamin for ischemic stroke were identified. Network analysis and molecular docking highlighted eight core targets—ALB, TIMP1, PLG, FN1, AGT, SERPINE1, APOE, and SPP1—with high binding affinities to cobalamin. GO analysis suggested that cobalamin regulates inflammatory responses, post-translational modifications, complement binding, and lipoprotein particle binding. KEGG analysis identified complement and coagulation cascades, the PI3K/AKT pathway, and inflammation-related signaling as central to its therapeutic effects. Molecular docking showed strong binding to ALB and TIMP1, which was further confirmed by MD simulations, with minimal conformational changes. The PLG-cobalamin complex exhibited more fluctuations. ADME analysis revealed low passive permeability, particularly across the blood–brain barrier, but moderate distribution and high plasma protein binding. This study provides evidence that cobalamin may offer neuroprotective effects in ischemic stroke by interacting with key target proteins involved in coagulation, inflammation, and lipid metabolism. The findings highlight the potential of cobalamin as a therapeutic agent, although its limited ability to cross the blood–brain barrier may restrict its oral use. Further experimental validation and development of suitable delivery methods are needed to fully realize cobalamin’s potential in stroke therapy. The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1038/s41598-026-41564-6. Show less
Spinal cord injury (SCI) represents significant central nervous system trauma and has consistently been a focal point of research in the domain of neural regeneration and repair. Currently, there is n Show more
Spinal cord injury (SCI) represents significant central nervous system trauma and has consistently been a focal point of research in the domain of neural regeneration and repair. Currently, there is no effective treatment available. Various modalities of magnetic stimulation have emerged for recovery from spinal cord injuries; however, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear, significantly hindering the application of magnetic stimulation technologies in treating such injuries. This study aims to elucidate these relevant mechanisms by establishing a simulated closed-loop magnetic stimulation system. In this study, we established a right hemisection model at T8 in mice and administered continuous simulated closed-loop magnetic stimulation targeting the left motor cortex and right L5 nerve root over six weeks. We subsequently utilized a spinal cord dorsal hemisection model to examine regeneration of the corticospinal tract (CST). Motor-evoked potential assessments and calcium imaging techniques were employed to explore neural circuit repair. Additionally, we integrated transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics approaches to investigate related mechanisms. The findings indicate that simulated closed-loop magnetic stimulation effectively restores motor function in the hind limbs, promotes the regeneration of corticospinal tracts in mice with spinal cord injuries, and facilitates the reconstruction of sensorimotor circuits and functions within the spinal cord. Simulated closed-loop magnetic stimulation significantly enhances axonal regeneration of the CST following SCI. This effect may be mediated through the activation of the AMPK-CREB-BDNF signaling pathway, which promotes neurotrophic factor secretion and subsequently induces nerve axon regeneration. This study suggests that simulated closed-loop magnetic stimulation represents a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment for impaired gait following SCI. 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
Impaired synaptic plasticity underlies cognitive impairment as a core pathological substrate. While aerobic exercise represents a significant non-pharmacological intervention for enhancing synaptic pl Show more
Impaired synaptic plasticity underlies cognitive impairment as a core pathological substrate. While aerobic exercise represents a significant non-pharmacological intervention for enhancing synaptic plasticity, its precise molecular mechanisms remain incompletely defined. This study investigated whether aerobic exercise ameliorates synaptic plasticity and synaptic loss in Apolipoprotein E homozygous knockout (APOE Show less
The gastrointestinal system is of particular importance in radiation biodosimetry because of its constant cell renewal and sensitivity to radiation-induced injury. It has been reported that total abdo Show more
The gastrointestinal system is of particular importance in radiation biodosimetry because of its constant cell renewal and sensitivity to radiation-induced injury. It has been reported that total abdominal irradiation causes distant cognitive defects in a mouse model. In this study, we demonstrated that metformin alleviated the cognitive dysfunction caused by total abdominal irradiation. No neuropathological changes were observed in hippocampal tissues in control, irradiated, and irradiated plus metformin-treated groups. However, we found that metformin treatment improved the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor and the phosphorylation level of cAMP response element-binding in the hippocampus from irradiated mice. Furthermore, our results revealed that metformin treatment reduced the expression of miR-34a-5p, which targets the brain-derived neurotrophic factor mRNA, in the small intestine, peripheral blood, and hippocampus. More importantly, injection of miR-34a-5p agomir inhibited the enhancement effects of metformin on the cognitive defects induced by total abdominal irradiation, as well as the enhanced expression of BNDF and the phosphorylation level of cAMP response element-binding in the hippocampus. Thus, our results provide alternative strategies for the treatment of total abdominal irradiation-induced distant cognitive impairment using metformin and further confirmed that miR-34a-5p is a potential drug target to reduce the cognitive defects caused by total abdominal irradiation. Show less
Osteoarthritis (OA) often coexists with metabolic traits (MTs), causing significant disability. Our study aims to uncover the shared genetic mechanisms between OA and MTs, revealing novel OA-MT relate Show more
Osteoarthritis (OA) often coexists with metabolic traits (MTs), causing significant disability. Our study aims to uncover the shared genetic mechanisms between OA and MTs, revealing novel OA-MT related genes, proteins and pathways. We first explored the clinical associations between OA and MTs based on UK Biobank data. Using GWAS statistics for 9 OA subtypes and 51 MTs, we identified both global and regional genetic correlations. Multi-trait GWAS helped revealed credible genes and relevant pathways through various methods. Protein-level analyses were also conducted to identify key proteins. We developed polygenic scores (PGS), machine learning models and drug repurposing strategies were explored to translate these findings into clinical applications. We identified 152 trait pairs with significant associations and 709 local regions linked to OA-MT. Key SNVs like rs13135092 (SLC39A8) and rs34811474 (ANAPC4) were associated with multiple OA-MT pairs. Lipid and glucose metabolism emerged as central pathways, with tissue-specific enrichment analyses revealing key gene clusters in hepatocytes, arteries, and brain regions. Protein-level analyses identified 205 protein subgroups. PGS integrating MTs outperformed model based solely on OA, improving AUC by 17.5%. Causal gene-based models showed strong diagnostic accuracy (average AUC = 0.875 in external cohorts). Drug prediction highlighted fenofibrate as a promising treatment among 71 candidates. This study provides new insights into the genetic links between OA and MTs. We identified genes, proteins, and pathways related to comorbidities, revealing shared mechanisms, highlighting the potential of integrating metabolic factors to improve OA prediction, diagnosis, and treatment. Show less
Yiqi Huoxue Granule (YQHX), a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formulation, is extensively utilized for the treatment of atherosclerotic diseases. However, its active constituents and molecular mech Show more
Yiqi Huoxue Granule (YQHX), a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formulation, is extensively utilized for the treatment of atherosclerotic diseases. However, its active constituents and molecular mechanisms remain unclear. We utilized a systematic methodology to identify bioavailable compounds in vivo and predict and validate the principal targets and pathways responsible for their anti-atherosclerotic actions. Serum pharmacochemistry utilizing UPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap-MS was employed to identify the bioavailable compounds of YQHX. An integrated methodology combining network pharmacology and molecular docking was implemented to predict its potential targets and mechanisms against atherosclerosis, which were subsequently verified experimentally in apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE We identified 36 absorbable compounds in the serum of rats following YQHX administration, and 252 potential therapeutic targets were predicted. Protein-protein interaction analysis identified 10 hub targets, which are IL-6, TNF, EGFR, TP53, AKT, STAT3, SRC, CTNNB1, TLR4, and MMP-9. Enrichment analyses indicated that these targets are primarily involved in lipid metabolism and inflammatory responses, with significant enrichment in the PI3K-Akt and SRC signaling pathways. Molecular docking revealed strong binding affinities between the proteins EGFR, SRC, and AKT and their respective compounds. In ApoE This study systematically identified the bioactive compounds of YQHX and demonstrated its multi-target anti-atherosclerotic effect, which involved the enhancement of lipid metabolism and suppression of inflammation, mediated, at least in part, by the inhibition of the SRC/AKT signaling pathway. Show less
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by memory impairment and deficits in other cognitive domains, ultimately leading to loss of independence in activitie Show more
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by memory impairment and deficits in other cognitive domains, ultimately leading to loss of independence in activities of daily living. As AD becomes an increasingly prevalent global health burden, the demand for early diagnosis of AD in clinical practice is growing. Due to factors such as accessibility, invasiveness, and testing costs, blood-based biomarkers (BBMs) are generally more favored by patients and more feasible compared to lumbar puncture or neuroimaging. Blood-based biomarkers may represent a breakthrough area for AD diagnosis. This review summarizes the AD biomarkers that have been widely studied to date, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of these markers to advance early diagnosis and offer valuable insights for clinical practice. First, we summarize the currently discovered biomarkers that can be used for AD diagnosis. It is noted that only a few highly promising biomarkers have been practically applied in the clinical auxiliary diagnosis of AD (including APOE genotyping for assessing genetic risk; Aβ42/Aβ40, P-tau181/Aβ42, and p-tau217 for differentiating AD; NfL for monitoring AD progression). It should be noted that current AD biomarkers are only applicable for clinical auxiliary diagnosis and cannot completely replace classic assessment scales for independent diagnosis. Additionally, we summarize the clinical advantages and potential challenges of these biomarkers, as well as the differences in their applicability to different populations. We emphasize that extensive clinical cohort studies are still needed in the future to further clarify the specificity of blood biomarkers and develop more suitable laboratory testing methods for clinical use to meet the clinical demand for high-sensitivity and high-specificity AD biomarker detection. Show less
Hyperlipidemia is highly prevalent worldwide and can affect cardiac pathophysiology. This study aimed to compare the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and moderate-intensity continuou Show more
Hyperlipidemia is highly prevalent worldwide and can affect cardiac pathophysiology. This study aimed to compare the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) on the molecular mechanisms of myocardial stress and pathological remodeling in non-obese apolipoprotein E knockout ( Thirty-five 8-week-old male The HFD condition increased serum total cholesterol (TC) and triglyceride (TG) levels, but did not increase body weight, consistent with a lean hyperlipidemia model. Compared with the MICT condition, the HIIT condition demonstrated superior efficacy in reducing HFD-induced TC, TG and BNP levels ( In a non-obese, hypercholesterolemic Show less
Atherosclerosis is a chronic and progressive inflammatory disease that can lead to adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events. Phenotypic switching of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) plays Show more
Atherosclerosis is a chronic and progressive inflammatory disease that can lead to adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events. Phenotypic switching of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) plays a pivotal role in its development and progression, but the upstream regulatory mechanisms remain incompletely defined. Here, we identify ubiquitin-fold modifier 1 (UFM1), a ubiquitin-like protein, as a critical regulator of VSMCs plasticity and atherogenesis. In VSMCs stimulated with oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL), UFM1 overexpression markedly attenuated phenotypic switching, restoring contractile features and suppressing synthetic activation, accompanied by reduced proliferation and migration. In contrast, UFM1 knockdown further exacerbated these phenotypic alterations. In ApoE Show less
Silica exposure precipitates irreversible lung injury; however, its long-term neurological sequelae—and the microglial mechanisms underlying these effects—remain poorly understood. Here, we demonstrat Show more
Silica exposure precipitates irreversible lung injury; however, its long-term neurological sequelae—and the microglial mechanisms underlying these effects—remain poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that inhaled crystalline silica induces persistent hippocampal inflammation, anxiety- and depression-like behaviors, and neuronal loss in mice. Bulk RNA sequencing, immunophenotyping, and pharmacological depletion studies revealed that microglia are the primary source of complement C1q in silica-exposed brains. Mechanistically, silica-induced lipocalin-2 (LCN2) engages the melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) on microglia, activating a cAMP/PKA/NF-κB cascade that transcriptionally upregulates C1q. Pharmacological blockade of MC4R (using PF) abolished C1q overproduction, normalized brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels, and restored both synaptic integrity and behavioral performance. Our findings establish the LCN2–MC4R–C1q axis as a critical microglial pathway in silica-related neurotoxicity and identify MC4R antagonism as a promising, readily translatable intervention for occupational neuroinflammation. The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12974-026-03695-5. Show less
The integrity of blood-brain barrier (BBB) plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) by regulating Aβ clearance and neurotoxic compound exclusion. Hyperlipidemia exacerbates Show more
The integrity of blood-brain barrier (BBB) plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) by regulating Aβ clearance and neurotoxic compound exclusion. Hyperlipidemia exacerbates AD by impairing the BBB function. Inclisiran, a PCSK9-targeting siRNA, reduces cholesterol levels; however, its neuroprotective effects remain unclear. Here, we report the novel discovery that Inclisiran attenuates AD-like changes through the PCSK9-ferroptosis axis in brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs). First, integrated bioinformatics analysis and experimental validation of cortical tissues from patients with AD and healthy controls revealed a coordinated upregulation of PCSK9 and β-amyloid (Aβ), accompanied by increased iron deposition and significant activation of the ferroptosis pathway. Interestingly, these changes are located in the BMECs of the blood-brain barrier rather than in the brain parenchyma. Second, in hyperlipidemic ApoE Show less
About 20-40% of prostate cancer (PCa) develop biochemical recurrence (BCR) after surgery, and propionate metabolism may contribute to tumor progression. BCR remains a major clinical challenge in PCa, Show more
About 20-40% of prostate cancer (PCa) develop biochemical recurrence (BCR) after surgery, and propionate metabolism may contribute to tumor progression. BCR remains a major clinical challenge in PCa, as current tools based on histopathology and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) fail to capture the molecular heterogeneity driving the disease. While metabolic reprogramming is known to facilitate post-treatment adaptation, the specific role of propionate metabolism in this context remains largely unexplored. Therefore, this study aimed to systematically investigate propionate metabolism-related genes (PMRGs) to develop a novel prognostic model for the improved early prediction of recurrence. In this study, The Cancer Genome Atlas-Prostate Adenocarcinoma (TCGA-PRAD), GSE70770 and 412 PMRGs were employed. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in PCa and control and DEGs2 in BCR and no BCR samples obtained by differential analysis were intersected with PMRGs to get candidate genes. After Cox and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analyses, biomarkers were identified to construct risk models. Biomarkers including In this study, PMRGs were regarded as biomarkers in PCa for risk model construction, which suggest that propionate metabolism represents a biologically relevant axis in PCa recurrence and may offer a novel framework for biomarker-driven risk assessment. Show less