Tumor fibrosis is recognized as a malignant hallmark in various solid tumors; however, the clinical importance and associated molecular characteristics of tumor fibrosis in liver metastases (LM) from Show more
Tumor fibrosis is recognized as a malignant hallmark in various solid tumors; however, the clinical importance and associated molecular characteristics of tumor fibrosis in liver metastases (LM) from colorectal cancer (CRLM) remain poorly understood. Here we show that patients with CRLM whose liver metastases (LM) exhibited tumor fibrosis (Fibrosis+ LM) had significantly worse progression-free survival (P = 0.025) and overall survival (P = 0.008). Single-cell RNA sequencing revealed that the tumor microenvironment of the Fibrosis+ LM was characterized by T cells with an exhausted phenotype, macrophages displaying a profibrotic and suppressive phenotype and fibrosis-promoting fibroblasts. Further investigation highlighted the pivotal role of VCAN_eCAF in remodeling the tumor fibrosis in the tumor microenvironment of Fibrosis+ LM, emphasizing potential targetable interactions such as FGF23 or FGF3-FGFR1. Validation through multiplex immunohistochemistry/immunofluorescence and spatial transcriptomics supported these findings. Here we present a comprehensive single-cell atlas of tumor fibrosis in LM, revealing the intricate multicellular environment and molecular features associated with it. These insights deepen our understanding of tumor fibrosis mechanisms and inform improved clinical diagnosis and treatment strategies. Show less
To establish the reference interval for the serum lipid index in pregnant women and to explore the relationship between lipid metabolism levels and pregnancy outcomes. Data were derived from 446 pregn Show more
To establish the reference interval for the serum lipid index in pregnant women and to explore the relationship between lipid metabolism levels and pregnancy outcomes. Data were derived from 446 pregnancy women and 317 healthy non-pregnant women. Serum levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1), apolipoprotein B (ApoB), lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)], and hypersensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) were measured in both groups. The mean and standard deviation of each index were calculated to establish the reference range of normal serum lipid levels in pregnant women in mid-to-late pregnancy. The associations between serum lipid levels and perinatal outcomes were assessed statistically. There were no significant differences in age, pregnancy, or parity between the adverse outcome and normal delivery groups, but the caesarean section rate was significantly higher in the adverse outcome group. The levels of hs-CRP, TG, TC, HDL-C, LDL-C, and ApoA1 were significantly higher in the adverse outcome group. Elevated hs-CRP, TG, and HDL-C levels were risk factors for adverse pregnancy outcomes. According to the receiver operating characteristic curve, the optimal threshold of the combined diagnosis of these three indicators to predict adverse pregnancy outcomes was 0.534, and the area under the curve was 0.822. The establishment of lipid reference intervals in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy can effectively evaluate lipid metabolism in pregnant women, and the measurement of lipid metabolism in pregnant women is helpful in predicting adverse pregnancy outcomes. Show less
The treatment and prognosis of cardiac amyloidosis (CA) depend heavily on the accurate identification of amyloid protein types. Histopathological methods are the most commonly used approach, but often Show more
The treatment and prognosis of cardiac amyloidosis (CA) depend heavily on the accurate identification of amyloid protein types. Histopathological methods are the most commonly used approach, but often produce inconclusive results. The application of mass spectrometry with laser microdissection mass spectrometry based on non-targeted proteomics in CA diagnosis is gradually being recognized, but it is expensive, time-consuming, and still in the early stages of scientific research applications. This study aims to establish a novel typing method based on targeted semi-quantitative proteomics to address the shortcomings of existing methods. Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) myocardial tissue samples from 52 CA and 52 hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) patients were analyzed. A semi-quantitative typing method was developed using triple quadrupole mass spectrometry, with laser microdissection mass spectrometry (LMD-MS) serving as the reference standard. A total of 52 peptides were analyzed. Key amyloid-associated proteins (AAPs) -apolipoprotein A-IV (apo A-IV), apolipoprotein E (apo E), and serum amyloid P component (SAP) - showed high diagnostic accuracy, with AUC values of 0.964, 0.999, and 0.923, respectively. Transthyretin (TTR), immunoglobulin light chains- κ (IGL - κ), and IGL-λ were semi-quantified using normalized scores (NS) adjusted for microdissection and peptide peak areas. An NS This targeted semi-quantitative mass spectrometry method has high consistency with non-targeted LMD-MS typing, with an accuracy higher than IHC (100 % vs. 30.8 %), while compensating for the shortcomings of non-targeted proteomics. It provides a practical method for CA typing in routine clinical laboratories and may help identify rare subtypes of amyloidosis in the future. Show less
Cadmium (Cd) contamination in plants and soil poses significant risks to livestock, particularly sheep. Cd exposure often leads to severe gastrointestinal diseases in sheep that are difficult to treat Show more
Cadmium (Cd) contamination in plants and soil poses significant risks to livestock, particularly sheep. Cd exposure often leads to severe gastrointestinal diseases in sheep that are difficult to treat. Milk-derived exosomes, particularly those from sheep milk (SM-Exo), have shown potential in treating gastrointestinal disorders, though their efficacy in Cd-induced colitis remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic potential of SM-Exo in a Cd-induced colitis model. Hu sheep were exposed to Cd, and their fecal microbiota were collected to prepare bacterial solutions for fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) in mice. The changes in gut microbiota and gene expression were analyzed through microbiome and transcriptomics. Our results showed that prior to treatment, harmful bacteria (e.g., Show less
Lipoproteins are essential for lipid transport in all bilaterians. A single Apolipoprotein B (ApoB) molecule is the inseparable structural scaffold of each ApoB-containing lipoprotein (B-lps), which a Show more
Lipoproteins are essential for lipid transport in all bilaterians. A single Apolipoprotein B (ApoB) molecule is the inseparable structural scaffold of each ApoB-containing lipoprotein (B-lps), which are responsible for transporting lipids to peripheral tissues. The cellular mechanisms that regulate ApoB and B-lp production, secretion, transport, and degradation remain to be fully defined. In humans, elevated levels of vascular B-lps play a causative role in cardiovascular disease. Previously, we have detailed that human B-lp biology is remarkably conserved in the zebrafish using an Show less
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an innovative non-invasive therapy for human cancer treatment. The significance of apoptosis-related genes (ARGs) in the prognosis of bladder cancer (BLCA) has gradually Show more
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an innovative non-invasive therapy for human cancer treatment. The significance of apoptosis-related genes (ARGs) in the prognosis of bladder cancer (BLCA) has gradually emerged. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the prognostic significance and pathogenesis of PDT related genes (PDTRGs)-ARGs in BLCA cases. Based on the BLCA data in TCGA, PDTRGs-ARGs with prognostic value in BLCA patients were screened. Subsequently, the prognostic value and diagnostic performance of all candidate genes were evaluated by univariate Cox regression analysis and ROC curves. Then, GSEA, GSVA and immune microenvironment analysis were conducted based on candidate genes. Finally, the molecular mechanisms of key candidate genes in BLCA patients were initially explored by qRT-PCR, CCK-8 analysis, Transwell Assay and Western Blotting. A total of 5 ARGs-PDTRGs (EMP1, FGFR1, PLPPR4, JUN, TNFRSF25) were screened as prognostic biomarkers for BLCA. Survival analysis revealed significant differences in overall survival of the five prognostic biomarkers in the high/low expression groups. ROC curve analysis revealed that the five prognostic biomarkers had strong prognostic predictive ability. QRT-PCR proved that the expression of EMP1, FGFR1, PLPPR4 and JUN was obviously reduced, while TNFRSF25 was markedly increased in BLCA tissue samples and cell lines. The following research confirmed that FGFR1 inhibited the biological process of T24 cells by activating cGMP-PKG pathway. Five ARGs-PDTRGs (EMP1, FGFR1, PLPPR4, JUN, TNFRSF25) were screened as prognostic biomarkers for BLCA. Among them, FGFR1 inhibits the biological process of T24 cells via activating cGMP-PKG pathway. Show less
Obesity is a global health challenge marked by substantial inter-individual differences in responses to dietary and lifestyle interventions. Traditional weight loss strategies often overlook critical Show more
Obesity is a global health challenge marked by substantial inter-individual differences in responses to dietary and lifestyle interventions. Traditional weight loss strategies often overlook critical biological variations in genetics, metabolic profiles, and gut microbiota composition, contributing to poor adherence and variable outcomes. Our primary aim is to identify key biological and behavioral effectors relevant to precision medicine for weight control, with a particular focus on nutrition, while also discussing their current and potential integration into digital health platforms. Thus, this review aligns more closely with the identification of influential factors within precision medicine (e.g., genetic, metabolic, and microbiome factors) but also explores how these factors are currently integrated into digital health tools. We synthesize recent advances in nutrigenomics, nutritional metabolomics, and microbiome-informed nutrition, highlighting how tailored dietary strategies-such as high-protein, low-glycemic, polyphenol-enriched, and fiber-based diets-can be aligned with specific genetic variants (e.g., FTO and MC4R), metabolic phenotypes (e.g., insulin resistance), and gut microbiota profiles (e.g., Show less
Post-hemorrhagic hydrocephalus (PHH) is a neurological disease that primarily affects premature infants and involves infiltration of blood into the brain's ventricles followed by excessive accumulatio Show more
Post-hemorrhagic hydrocephalus (PHH) is a neurological disease that primarily affects premature infants and involves infiltration of blood into the brain's ventricles followed by excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), leading to ventricular enlargement and increased intracranial pressure. The precise mechanisms driving PHH development and persistence are incompletely understood and lack disease-modifying treatments. Using a mouse model of PHH, we have identified transcriptomic, proteomic, and cellular features of PHH involving neuroimmune and neurovascular alterations recapitulating those reported in human disease. Improvement upon a lysophosphatidic acid (LPA)-induced PHH mouse model was combined with unbiased proteomic and single-nucleus transcriptomics that identified microglial molecular pathways propagating PHH. Pharmacological depletion of microglia in vivo significantly reduced PHH-associated ventriculomegaly. These data identify microglial and neurovascular elements in the development of PHH, implicating them as other potentially tractable therapeutic targets beyond LPA receptors, towards developing medical treatments for PHH. Show less
Cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) plays a key role in lipoprotein metabolism, and its activity has been linked to the risk of atherosclerosis (AS). CETP inhibitors, such as obicetrapib, repres Show more
Cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) plays a key role in lipoprotein metabolism, and its activity has been linked to the risk of atherosclerosis (AS). CETP inhibitors, such as obicetrapib, represent a novel approach in immunotherapy to reduce the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) by targeting lipid metabolism. In addition, CETP vaccines are being explored as a novel strategy for the prevention and treatment of ASCVD by inducing the body to produce antibodies against CETP, which is expected to reduce CETP activity, thereby increasing high-density lipoproteins (HDL) levels. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the structure of CETP, the mechanisms of lipid transfer and the progress of immunotherapy in the last decade, which provides possible ideas for future development of novel drugs and optimization of immunization strategies. Show less
Infantile hemangioma (IH) is a common benign vascular tumor in infants, often requiring intervention due to potential functional impairment and cosmetic concerns. Propranolol, a nonselective β-adrener Show more
Infantile hemangioma (IH) is a common benign vascular tumor in infants, often requiring intervention due to potential functional impairment and cosmetic concerns. Propranolol, a nonselective β-adrenergic receptor blocker, is the first-line therapy for IH, yet its mechanisms remain incompletely elucidated. This prospective study investigated the systemic angiogenic protein profile changes in response to propranolol in 14 treatment-naïve IH infants compared to 14 healthy controls using antibody array analysis. We identified twenty-six angiogenic proteins significantly downregulated in pretreatment IH patients compared to healthy controls. After 3 months of propranolol treatment, six proteins including HB-EGF, TGFα, ANGPTL4, Follistatin, Tie-1 and PLGF were significantly upregulated. Bioinformatic enrichment analysis revealed that these proteins are involved in key biological processes and signaling pathways, including epithelial cell proliferation, angiogenesis regulation, VEGF signaling, ERBB-EGFR axis, Ras-MAPK, and PI3K-Akt pathways. These results suggest that propranolol treatment is associated with a rebalancing of dysregulated angiogenic proteins in IH, through modulating both pro- and anti-angiogenic factors to rebalance vascular homeostasis. Our study provides novel insights into the systems-level pharmacological actions of propranolol and proposes potential biomarkers for treatment response evaluation. Show less
Altered levels of human plasma metabolites have been implicated in the etiology of bipolar disorder (BD). However, the causality between metabolites and the disease was not well described. We performe Show more
Altered levels of human plasma metabolites have been implicated in the etiology of bipolar disorder (BD). However, the causality between metabolites and the disease was not well described. We performed a bidirectional metabolome-wide Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to evaluate the potential causal relationships between 871 plasma metabolites and BD. We used DrugBank and ChEMBL to evaluate whether related metabolites are potential therapeutic targets. Finally, Bayesian colocalization analysis was performed to identify shared genomic loci BD and identified metabolites. Our MR results showed that six metabolites were significantly associated with a reduced risk of BD, including arachidonate (20:4n6) (OR: 0.90, 95% CI: 0.84-0.95) and sphingomyelin (d18:2/24:1, d18:1/24:2) (OR: 0.92, 95% CI: 0.87-0.96), while five metabolites were significantly associated with an increased risk of BD, including 1-palmitoyl-2-linoleoyl-GPE (16:0/18:2) (OR: 1.09, 95% CI: 1.05-1.13). However, our reverse MR analysis showed that BD was not associated with the levels of any metabolite. Additionally, the leave-one-out analysis revealed SNPs within chromosome 11 loci harboring MYRF, FADS1, and FADS2 as ones with the potential to influence partial causal effects. Druggability evaluation showed that 10 of the BD-related metabolites, such as sphingomyelin and cytidine, have been targeted by pharmacologic intervention. Colocalization analysis highlighted one colocalized region (chromosome 11q12) shared by 11 metabolites and BD and pointed to some genes as possible players, including FADS1, FADS2, FADS3, and SYT7. Our study supported a causal role of plasma metabolites in the susceptibility to BD, and the identified metabolites may provide a new avenue for the prevention and treatment of BD. Show less
Despite the increasing approval and ongoing clinical trials of FGFR-targeted therapies, accurately detecting FGFR fusions remains a challenge due to limited research, low incidence rates, complex fusi Show more
Despite the increasing approval and ongoing clinical trials of FGFR-targeted therapies, accurately detecting FGFR fusions remains a challenge due to limited research, low incidence rates, complex fusion partner distribution, and unique kinase domain distribution. We conducted a multicenter study to comprehensively profile FGFR fusions in the largest Chinese pan-cancer cohort to date, comprising 118 FGFR fusions from 114 individuals. Both DNA- and RNA-based sequencing approaches were utilized to reveal novel and fundamental features of FGFR fusion. Our research reveals an incidence rate of 0.96% for FGFR rearrangements within this Chinese cohort, including a high incidence rate of FGFR fusions (40%) in parotid gland carcinoma. However, this is based on a small sample size of 5 tumors and should be interpreted cautiously pending validation in larger cohorts. We also uncovered distinct breakpoint distribution patterns across various FGFR rearrangements. For example, a primary breakpoint in intron17 of FGFR2 was predominant (21/22), while FGFR1/3 breakpoints displayed substantial diversity. For the first time, we identified "hot" breakpoints in FGFR1 intron17, exon18, and FGFR3's 3' untranslated region. These findings underline the importance of incorporating these regions in targeted sequencing to ensure comprehensive detection of FGFR1/3 fusions. Notably, we observed a predilection for intrachromosomal distribution in common FGFR1/2/3 fusions. In contrast, most novel fusions (12/15) exhibited an interchromosomal distribution pattern, indicating variations in the fusion formation mechanism. Importantly, our study demonstrates the substantial incremental value of RNA-NGS or other orthogonal methods in confirming the functionality of FGFR rearrangements initially identified by DNA sequencing. In our cohort, 46% (6/13) of rare FGFR1/2/3 fusions lacked detectable RNA transcripts; however, this does not definitively indicate non-functionality as factors such as low RNA quality, expression below detection limits, or nonsense-mediated decay may contribute. Therefore, RNA-based validation is critical for accurately identifying potentially targetable FGFR fusions and guiding therapy. Our findings offer critical novel insights into functional FGFR fusions and bear considerable clinical implications for identifying individuals whose tumors are most likely to respond favorably to FGFR-targeted therapies. Show less
Cardiac hypertrophy as one of the major predisposing factors for chronic heart failure lacks effective interventions. It has been shown that protein ubiquitination plays an important role in cardiac h Show more
Cardiac hypertrophy as one of the major predisposing factors for chronic heart failure lacks effective interventions. It has been shown that protein ubiquitination plays an important role in cardiac hypertrophy. SMURF2 (SMAD-specific E3 ubiquitin ligase 2) is an important member of NEDD4 (neuronal precursor cell expressed developmentally downregulated 4) family of HECT E3 ubiquitin ligases. In this study we investigated the regulatory role of SMURF2 in cardiac hypertrophy. Experiment models were established in mice by transverse aortic constriction (TAC) in vivo, as well as in neonatal rat cardiomyocytes (NRCMs) by treatment with angiotensin II (Ang II, 1 μM) in vitro. We showed that the expression levels of SMURF2 were significantly elevated in cardiac tissues from patients with cardiac hypertrophy and the two experiment models. In NRCMs, SMURF2 knockdown or treatment with a specific SMURF2 inhibitor heclin (8 μM) significantly inhibited Ang II-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, evidenced by reduced mRNA levels of Anp, Bnp and β-Mhc as well as cell surface. Prophylactic or therapeutic administration of heclin (10 mg·kg Show less
Atherosclerosis (AS) remains a leading cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, characterized by intricate interactions between immune dysregulation and lipid metabolism abnormalities-identify Show more
Atherosclerosis (AS) remains a leading cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, characterized by intricate interactions between immune dysregulation and lipid metabolism abnormalities-identifying key mediators in its pathogenesis is critical for improving diagnostics and therapies. This study focuses on Transmembrane Protein 106A (TMEM106A) to clarify its role and clinical relevance in AS progression. Public transcriptomic datasets (GSE43292, GSE100927, GSE28829) were analyzed to assess TMEM106A expression and diagnostic value; single-cell RNA-seq data (GSE159677) defined its cellular localization. Immune infiltration (ssGSEA, Cibersort, xCell) and CellChat (intercellular communication) analyses explored its immune associations. TMEM106A was significantly upregulated in AS samples across datasets, with strong diagnostic efficacy (AUC 0.80-0.95). Single-cell analysis confirmed its specific enrichment in macrophages, with functional links to immune-related pathways. TMEM106A promoted macrophage infiltration, foam cell formation, oxidative stress, and inflammatory responses, while regulating PLCB2 in chemokine signaling; silencing TMEM106A alleviated these pro-atherosclerotic effects. TMEM106A contributes to AS progression by modulating macrophage-mediated immune responses and chemokine signaling, as validated in experimental models. These findings support its potential as a clinically relevant biomarker and promising therapeutic target for AS intervention. Show less
Women diagnosed with PCOS exhibit a high prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This study aims to assess risk factors of OSA among patients with PCOS. This retrospective study included 126 pati Show more
Women diagnosed with PCOS exhibit a high prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This study aims to assess risk factors of OSA among patients with PCOS. This retrospective study included 126 patients with PCOS who were categorized into an OSA group (n = 30) and a non-OSA group (n = 96) according to the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI). A control group comprised 72 patients without PCOS who presented during the same period for infertility due to fallopian tube, pelvic, or male factors. Patients with PCOS A multivariate logistic regression model was used to analyze independent risk factors for OSA in the PCOS group. Patients with PCOS had significantly higher AHI values and elevated values for various physical indicators, including body mass index (BMI) and neck, waist, and hip circumferences; prolactin (PRL); fasting plasma glucose (FPG); insulin (FINS); triglycerides (TG); homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR); 2-hour postprandial glucose (2-hPG) and insulin (2-hINS); AHI; and oxygen desaturation index (ODI). Conversely, levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and lowest oxygen saturation (LSaO OSA in PCOS patients is linked to metabolic indicators. High neck circumference and BMI levels were independent risk factors, highlighting the need for OSA in routine PCOS screening, particularly in the context of metabolic dysregulation. Show less
Ischemia-reperfusion (IR) and adriamycin (also named doxorubicin, DOX)-induced acute myocardial injuries have a significant impact on health, causing serious economic and medical burdens. Therefore, w Show more
Ischemia-reperfusion (IR) and adriamycin (also named doxorubicin, DOX)-induced acute myocardial injuries have a significant impact on health, causing serious economic and medical burdens. Therefore, we need to explore and identify drugs with potential therapeutic value for treating I/R- and DOX-induced myocardial injury. In the present study, we explored the therapeutic potential of FGF4 for I/R and DOX-induced myocardial injury. We found that FGF4 showed good improvement in acute cardiac injury. However, due to the short half-life of FGF4, we further prepared a myocardial-targeted FGF4-sustained release nanoliposome (named FGF4-NANO-IMTP). We investigated the effect of FGF4-NANO-IMTP on myocardial injury caused by I/R and DOX. Show less
The beak bean, found only in waterfowl and Galliformes, aids in foraging, self-defense and pecking hard objects. Its rich coloration results from prolonged evolutionary adaptation. This study analyzed Show more
The beak bean, found only in waterfowl and Galliformes, aids in foraging, self-defense and pecking hard objects. Its rich coloration results from prolonged evolutionary adaptation. This study analyzed beak bean phenotypes of duck at 10, 20, 30 and 40 days of age, revealing that the most common type is the black beak bean, characterized by melanin deposition on the beak surface. This study performed single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-based genome-wide association studies (GWASs) to investigate the genetic basis of beak bean color, identifying signals on chromosome 1. The copy number variation region-based GWAS revealed a consistent candidate region overlapping with the SNP-based GWAS signals, further supporting the importance of this genomic region. Locus zoom analysis further refined the candidate regions to 48.5-50.5 and 50.8-52.8 Mb. Functional enrichment analysis highlighted six candidate genes within these regions: KITLG, DUSP6, GALNT4, MGAT4C, ATP2B1 and NTS. Notably, KITLG and DUSP6, which are linked to melanin production, were identified as key candidate genes for beak bean color. Our finding revealed the genetic basis of the bean color traits for the first time in ducks, providing a theoretical foundation and technological framework for enhancing duck beak coloration. Show less
To evaluate potential genetic causal relationships between chronic pain subtypes like migraine and multi-site chronic pain (MCP) and their impact on breast cancer occurrence and survival rates. The as Show more
To evaluate potential genetic causal relationships between chronic pain subtypes like migraine and multi-site chronic pain (MCP) and their impact on breast cancer occurrence and survival rates. The association between chronic pain and breast cancer was reported before, yet the causal nature between them remained uncertain. Data on chronic pain and breast cancer were sourced from publicly available European genome-wide association study (GWAS) datasets. Genetic association between chronic pain and breast cancer phenotypes was assessed using linkage disequilibrium genetic correlation (LDSC). Colocalization analysis further identified potential shared causal variation. Based on Inverse variance weighted method, 2-sample Mendelian Randomization (MR) was conducted to investigate causal associations between migraine, MCP, and breast cancer or breast cancer survival. Sensitive analysis was conducted to ensure the absence of heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy. LDSC demonstrated significant genetic correlations between migraine and both estrogen receptor-negative (ER-) and overall breast cancer, while also revealing a notable genetic association between MCP and ER- and ER+ breast cancer, as well as overall breast cancer. Through colocalization analysis, potential involvement of rs2183271, located in MLLT10 gene, in regulating MCP and ER+ breast cancer was identified. MR analysis revealed the association between migraine and elevated risk of ER- breast cancer (IVW, P = 4.95 × 10 Our results provided new insights into the role of migraine and MCP in breast cancer, paving the way for targeted preventive strategies and future investigations. Show less
Despite the high morbidity and mortality, the effective therapies for heart failure with preserved fraction (HFpEF) are limited as the poor understand of its pathophysiological basis. This study was a Show more
Despite the high morbidity and mortality, the effective therapies for heart failure with preserved fraction (HFpEF) are limited as the poor understand of its pathophysiological basis. This study was aimed to characterize the cellular heterogeneity and potential mechanisms of HFpEF at single-cell resolution. An HFpEF mouse model was induced by a high-fat diet with N-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester. Cells from the hearts were subjected to single-cell sequencing. The key protein expression was measured with Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence staining. In HFpEF hearts, myocardial fibroblasts exhibited higher levels of fibrosis. Furthermore, an increased number of fibroblasts differentiated into high-metabolism and high-fibrosis phenotypes. The expression levels of genes encoding certain pro-angiogenic secreted proteins were decreased in the HFpEF group, as confirmed by bulk RNA sequencing. Additionally, the proportion of the endothelial cell (EC) lineages in the HFpEF group was significantly downregulated, with low angiogenesis and high apoptosis phenotypes observed in these EC lineages. Interestingly, the fibroblasts in the HFpEF heart might cross-link with the EC lineages via over-secretion of ANGPTL4, thus displaying an anti-angiogenic function. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence staining then revealed the downregulation of vascular density and upregulation of ANGPTL4 expression in HFpEF hearts. Finally, we predicted ANGPTL4as a potential druggable target using DrugnomeAI. In conclusion, this study comprehensively characterized the angiogenesis impairment in HFpEF hearts at single-cell resolution and proposed that ANGPTL4 secretion by fibroblasts may be a potential mechanism underlying this angiogenic abnormality. Show less
Inhibition of branched-chain ketoacid dehydrogenase kinase (BDK or BCKDK), a negative regulator of branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) metabolism, is hypothesized to treat cardio-metabolic diseases. From Show more
Inhibition of branched-chain ketoacid dehydrogenase kinase (BDK or BCKDK), a negative regulator of branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) metabolism, is hypothesized to treat cardio-metabolic diseases. From a starting point with potential idiosyncratic toxicity risk, modification to a benzothiophene core and discovery of a cryptic pocket allowed for improved potency with 3-aryl substitution to arrive at PF-07328948, which was largely devoid of protein covalent binding liability. This BDK inhibitor was shown also to be a BDK degrader in cells and in vivo rodent studies. Plasma biomarkers, including BCAAs and branched-chain ketoacids (BCKAs), were lowered in vivo with enhanced pharmacodynamic effect upon chronic dosing due to BDK degradation. This molecule improves metabolic and heart failure end points in rodent models. PF-07328948 is the first known selective BDK inhibitor candidate to be examined in clinical studies, with Phase 1 single ascending dose data showing good tolerability and a pharmacokinetic profile commensurate with once-daily dosing. Show less
Social interaction with others is essential to life. Although social isolation and loneliness have been implicated as increased risks of cardiometabolic and cardiovascular diseases and all-cause morta Show more
Social interaction with others is essential to life. Although social isolation and loneliness have been implicated as increased risks of cardiometabolic and cardiovascular diseases and all-cause mortality, the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which social connection maintains cardiometabolic and cardiovascular health remain largely unresolved. To investigate how social connection protects against cardiometabolic and cardiovascular diseases, atherosclerosis-prone, high-fat diet-fed These results identify a novel brain-liver axis that links sociality to hepatic lipid metabolism, thus proposing a potential therapeutic strategy for loneliness-associated atherosclerosis progression. Show less
Hypertriglyceridemia, characterized by increased triglyceride (TG) concentrations, is considered the most important risk factor for cardiometabolic disorders, including dyslipidemia, atherosclerotic c Show more
Hypertriglyceridemia, characterized by increased triglyceride (TG) concentrations, is considered the most important risk factor for cardiometabolic disorders, including dyslipidemia, atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Recently, the angiopoietin-like protein (ANGPTL) family, which comprises ANGPTL1 to ANGPTL8, was confirmed to play an important role in modulating lipoprotein lipase (LPL) activity. However, understanding of the underlying mechanisms remains limited. Importantly, emerging evidence has linked several transcriptional and post-transcriptional factors to the potential alteration of TG metabolism via ANGPTL proteins. This review focused on the similarities and differences in the expression, structural features, and modulatory profile of three ANGPTLs: ANGPTL3, ANGPTL4, and ANGPTL8. In addition, the regulatory functions of those three ANGPTLs in modulating LPL were summarized to provide potential therapeutic and clinical strategies for hypertriglyceridemia and its related cardiometabolic disorders. Show less
The precise involvement of Guanine Nucleotide-Binding Protein-Like 3-Like Protein (GNL3L) in lung cancer progression and invasion remains unclear. In this study, we explored the impact and underlying Show more
The precise involvement of Guanine Nucleotide-Binding Protein-Like 3-Like Protein (GNL3L) in lung cancer progression and invasion remains unclear. In this study, we explored the impact and underlying mechanisms of GNL3L on the proliferation, migration, and invasion of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), and evaluated the therapeutic potential of targeting GNL3L. Inhibition of GNL3L expression led to a notable decrease in the in vitro proliferation, migration, and invasion of A549 and H1299 non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells. Meanwhile, GNL3L silencing could significantly reduce the tumor volume of the nude mice and improve the outcomes of tumor-bearing mice in vivo. Additionally, inhibition of GNL3L expression dramatically suppressed NF-κB activation and Slug, MMP2, and MMP9 expression. Overexpression of Slug or treatment of the GNL3L-deficient cells with NF-κB activator can partially restore the growth suppressed by GNL3L deficiency, and combined treatment with Slug overexpression and NF-κB activator could totally restore the suppressed cell growth caused by GNL3L deficiency. Moreover, the overexpression of MMP2 or MMP9 could partially enhance the reduced migration and invasion caused by GNL3L deficiency, and this GNL3L-deficiency-caused suppression of migration and invasion can be totally restored by the overexpression of MMP2 and MMP9 together. These results strongly indicated that GNL3L has the capability to activate the NF-κB and increase Slug, MMP2, and MMP9 expression, which in turn could stimulate the proliferation, migration, and invasion of lung cancer cells. NF-κB activation and Slug, MMP2, and MMP9 expression enhanced by GNL3L, leading to the promotion of proliferation, migration, and invasion of lung cancer cells, indicating the therapeutic implications and potential significance of these pathways in the progression and invasion of NSCLCs that overexpress GNL3L protein. Show less
The association between gut microbes and Alzheimer's disease (AD) has not been entirely elucidated. We aimed to demonstrate the association between gut microbes and AD and to further investigate the p Show more
The association between gut microbes and Alzheimer's disease (AD) has not been entirely elucidated. We aimed to demonstrate the association between gut microbes and AD and to further investigate the pathogenesis of microbes with a causal relationship to AD. Mendelian randomization analyses were used to determine the significant causal relationship between gut microbes and AD. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was used to identify the hub genes. Functional enrichment analysis was used to reveal the pathogenesis theoretically between gut microbes and AD. In the present study, a total of 32 microbes were identified that were significantly associated with AD. Subsequently, DLGAP2, NRXN3, NEGR1, NTNAP2, MYH9, and SCN3A were identified as hub genes. The genes NRXN3, NEGR1, and NTNAP2 were enriched in the cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) signaling, and the taxons of gut microbes that corresponded to these were Show less
To investigate the role and mechanism of the SREBP1/SNAI1 signalling pathway in the effect of brexpiprazole on the EMT and metastasis of CRC. The effects of different concentrations of brexpiprazole o Show more
To investigate the role and mechanism of the SREBP1/SNAI1 signalling pathway in the effect of brexpiprazole on the EMT and metastasis of CRC. The effects of different concentrations of brexpiprazole on cell migration, cell invasion and protein expression Brexpiprazole significantly inhibited the migration and invasion of CRC cells; downregulated the expression of SREBP1(m), SNAI1 and MMP9; upregulated the expression of E-Cad and ZO1; and decreased the levels of secreted ICAM-1 and VEGF in the supernatant of CRC cells. Western blotting and dual-luciferase assays revealed that SREBP1 could directly regulate the expression of SANI1. On the other hand, Brexpiprazole inhibits the migration, invasion and metastasis of CRC cells by inhibiting the SREBP1/SNAI1 signalling pathway and downregulating the expression of EMT-related factors. Show less
D-2-hydroxyglutarate (D-2HG), an oncometabolite derived from the tricarboxylic acid cycle. Previous studies have reported the diverse effects of D-2HG in pathophysiological processes, yet its role in Show more
D-2-hydroxyglutarate (D-2HG), an oncometabolite derived from the tricarboxylic acid cycle. Previous studies have reported the diverse effects of D-2HG in pathophysiological processes, yet its role in breast cancer remains largely unexplored. We applied an advanced biosensor approach to detect the D-2HG levels in breast cancer samples. We then investigated the biological functions of D-2HG through multiple in vitro and in vivo assays. A joint MeRIP-seq and RNA-seq strategy was used to identify the target genes regulated by D-2HG-mediated N6-methyladenosine (m We found that D-2HG accumulated in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), exerting oncogenic effects both in vitro and in vivo by promoting TNBC cell growth and metastasis. Mechanistically, D-2HG enhanced global m Our study unveils a previously unrecognized role for D-2HG-mediated RNA modification in TNBC progression and targeting the D-2HG/FTO/m Show less