Based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory, the efficacy and mechanism of Ginger juice processed Ziziphi Spinosae Semen (GJPZSS) for treating insomnia, particularly stress-related types, were Show more
Based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory, the efficacy and mechanism of Ginger juice processed Ziziphi Spinosae Semen (GJPZSS) for treating insomnia, particularly stress-related types, were investigated to provide empirical evidence. An insomnia model was induced in mice by DL-4-chlorophenylalanine (PCPA) and chronic tail clamping. The sedative effect was evaluated by behavioral tests. Serum components from GJPZSS were analyzed by UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS, and 64 potential targets were identified. The cAMP signaling pathway was enriched as the core pathway by Kyoto Encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) analysis and was validated by molecular docking. GJPZSS was demonstrated to prolong sleep time, reduce immobility time, increase 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels, decrease hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis levels, and suppress neuronal death. The reduction of the cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), protein kinase A (PKA), cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the brain was also significantly inhibited. It was concluded that the sleep-improving effect of GJPZSS was mediated through the regulation of the HPA axis and the cAMP/PKA/CREB/BDNF signaling pathway. Show less
MYBPC3 mutations are the leading cause of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Here, to study the pathogenesis of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, we created a MYBPC3 knockout (KO) model using human induced pluri Show more
MYBPC3 mutations are the leading cause of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Here, to study the pathogenesis of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, we created a MYBPC3 knockout (KO) model using human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs). MYBPC3-deleted hiPSC-CMs revealed the characteristics of heart failure, which exhibited increased contractility at 30 days but decreased at 40 days. Furthermore, at 40 days, it also shows abnormal calcium handling, increased ROS levels, and mitochondrial damage. Further RNA sequencing revealed that the oxidative stress pathway was aberrant, in addition to alterations linked to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Moreover, after adding melatonin to hiPSC-CMs at 30 days, MYBPC3-deleted hiPSC-CMs showed restored calcium handling capacity, decreased ROS levels, and improved myocardial contractility. In summary, reducing ROS can improve the phenotype of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Show less
Cerebral palsy (CP), the most prevalent pediatric motor disorder with significant cognitive comorbidity (> 50%), lacks therapies addressing both impairments in moderate-to-severe cases. This study dem Show more
Cerebral palsy (CP), the most prevalent pediatric motor disorder with significant cognitive comorbidity (> 50%), lacks therapies addressing both impairments in moderate-to-severe cases. This study demonstrates that human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (hUCMSC-Exos) exert profound therapeutic effects in a rat model of moderate-to-severe CP established via bilateral carotid artery occlusion with hypoxia. Intravenously administered hUCMSC-Exos displayed sustained brain retention and significantly restored motor coordination and cognitive function. The recovery was primarily mediated through enhanced remyelination driven by promoted oligodendrocyte maturation and differentiation (elevated oligodendrocyte lineage transcription factor 2 and myelin basic protein). Concurrently, the treatment attenuated key pathological processes involving sustained neuroinflammatory responses (reduced ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1, tumor necrosis factor-α, and interleukin-6) while elevating brain-derived neurotrophic factor. Our findings establish hUCMSC-Exos as a promising dual-modality therapy for moderate-to-severe CP, mechanistically linked to robust remyelination and coordinated modulation of core disease mechanisms. Show less
Brusatol (BRU), a major bioactive quassinoid isolated from Brucea javanica, has shown potential in the treatment of inflammatory diseases. As mitochondrial dysfunction has been implicated in chronic i Show more
Brusatol (BRU), a major bioactive quassinoid isolated from Brucea javanica, has shown potential in the treatment of inflammatory diseases. As mitochondrial dysfunction has been implicated in chronic inflammatory disorders, modulation of mitochondrial homeostasis may offer a potential approach for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and atherosclerosis (AS). To develop a novel BRU derivative through rational modification at the C11‑hydroxyl group and to compare the therapeutic effects of BRU and its derivative BRUD in experimental models of RA and AS, with particular focus on mitochondrial regulation and Drp1-associated signaling. This study combined in vivo and in vitro experiments to evaluate the pharmacological effects of BRU and BRUD and investigate the underlying mechanisms. The chemical constituents of BRU and BRUD were confirmed by HPLC and NMR spectroscopy ( In vivo studies demonstrated that both compounds ameliorated joint damage in CIA rats and reduced atherosclerotic lesion burden in ApoE These findings suggest that BRUD exhibits improved activity compared with BRU in RA and AS models, with protective effects associated with modulation of mitochondrial dysfunction, supporting its further evaluation as a lead compound. Show less
The melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R), a key regulator of energy balance and feeding behavior, plays a critical role in sheep growth. Herein, we identified a naturally occurring conserved functional SNP Show more
The melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R), a key regulator of energy balance and feeding behavior, plays a critical role in sheep growth. Herein, we identified a naturally occurring conserved functional SNP (g.59480661G > A, E100K, P.Glu100Lys) in the sheep MC4R gene. Using the Kompetitive Allele Specific PCR method, we detected this mutation in 2,151 sheep from six different breeds. Association analysis revealed that this mutation affects the growth traits of Luxi Blackhead sheep, and the individuals with AA (K100) genotype exhibited superior growth performance compared to the GG (E100) genotype. Additionally, whole-genome sequencing data from 49 sheep breeds, totaling 968 individuals, showed a higher mutation frequency of this variant in some large-sized sheep breeds. Functional studies demonstrated that the E100K mutation does not affect protein localization or transport but reduces surface and total protein expression. The mutated receptor exhibited decreased basal activity and reduced binding efficiency with agonists (α-MSH and β-MSH), resulting in a partial loss of function. Transcriptomic analysis indicated that this mutation affects downstream pathways, including osteoclast differentiation and the MAPK signaling pathway, which may influence growth regulation associated with the E100K mutation. Collectively, these findings underscore the substantial role of the partial loss-of-function MC4R E100K mutation in regulating growth traits in sheep. Show less
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remains a major health burden, particularly in Asia, with poor patient prognosis despite advancements in radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. The ma Show more
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remains a major health burden, particularly in Asia, with poor patient prognosis despite advancements in radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. The marked inter-patient and intra-tumor heterogeneity of ESCC underscores the need for molecularly informed diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Recent high-throughput omics technologies, including genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, have substantially advanced our understanding of ESCC biology. Genomic profiling has revealed recurrent alterations such as TP53 and NOTCH1 mutations, as well as actionable targets including PIK3CA, FGFR1, and SOX2 amplifications, which provide new opportunities for precision therapy. Epigenomic and transcriptomic analyses have identified methylation-based early detection markers (e.g., PAX9, SIM2) and immune-related transcriptomic subtypes associated with prognosis and immunotherapy responsiveness. Proteomic and metabolomic studies have further uncovered cell cycle and spliceosome pathway activation and altered lactate metabolism, offering additional biomarker and therapeutic insights. In this review, we synthesize these multi-omics advances and highlight how they collectively inform improved diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic strategies for ESCC. Despite these developments, the clinical translation of multi-omics findings remains limited due to the lack of standardized analytical pipelines, insufficient multi-center validation, and the high cost and technical complexity of integrating multi-omics data into routine clinical workflows. Future research integrating artificial intelligence with multi-omics data holds promise for enhancing diagnostic accuracy and enabling more precise therapeutic decision-making in ESCC. 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
Older adults typically have higher sedentary behaviour (SB) and lower physical activity (PA) than younger adults. Studies on replacing SB with PA in relation to all-cause mortality in racially diverse Show more
Older adults typically have higher sedentary behaviour (SB) and lower physical activity (PA) than younger adults. Studies on replacing SB with PA in relation to all-cause mortality in racially diverse older adults remain limited. This study included 122 966 older adults from the China Kadoorie Biobank (CKB) and 207 212 older adults from the UK Biobank (UKB). SB and PA were assessed using baseline questionnaires, with PA classified as light (LPA), moderate (MPA) or vigorous (VPA) based on metabolic equivalents. Cox proportional hazards models and isotemporal substitution models were used to examine the associations between replacing SB with different PA intensities and all-cause mortality. Longer SB (per 30 min/day increase) was associated with a higher risk of all-cause mortality in both cohorts (CKB: HR 1.013, 95% CI 1.010 to 1.017; UKB: HR 1.012, 95% CI 1.009 to 1.015). PA of any intensity was associated with a reduced risk of all-cause mortality. In the CKB, replacing 30 min/day of SB with an equivalent duration of PA showed comparable protective associations (LPA: HR 0.963, 95% CI 0.958 to 0.968; MPA: HR 0.967, 95% CI 0.961 to 0.972; VPA: HR 0.965, 95% CI 0.960 to 0.971). In the UKB, replacing 30 min/day of SB with VPA was associated with the largest reduction in mortality risk (HR: 0.950, 95% CI 0.931 to 0.970). Replacing SB with PA of any intensity was associated with reduced all-cause mortality risk in older adults, with variations across populations. These findings highlight the need for population-specific PA recommendations to promote healthy ageing. Show less
The protein corona formed upon systemic administration critically modulates the pharmacokinetics, biodistribution, and therapeutic efficacy of the nanomedicines. While emerging evidence links obesity Show more
The protein corona formed upon systemic administration critically modulates the pharmacokinetics, biodistribution, and therapeutic efficacy of the nanomedicines. While emerging evidence links obesity to heightened chemosensitivity, the underlying nanobio-interfacial mechanisms remain poorly understood. Herein, we demonstrate that pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD) exhibits significantly enhanced antitumor and antimetastatic efficacy in obese breast tumor-bearing mice compared to normal controls. Mechanistic investigations reveal that obesity confers PLD with prolonged systemic circulation and improved tumor accumulation. Notably, preincubation of PLD with plasma from obese mice reduces macrophage uptake while promoting internalization by breast cancer cells compared to that from normal mice. Genetic ablation of apolipoprotein E (ApoE) in obese mice abolishes obesity-associated improvements in PLD blood circulation, tumor accumulation, and uptake by cancer cells. Conversely, supplementation with recombinant ApoE restores these effects in ApoE-deficient mice and potentiates PLD's antitumor efficacy. Collectively, our findings demonstrate obesity-induced ApoE as a pivotal regulator of the protein corona that actively enhances tumor-targeted delivery of PLD, which offers a rational strategy for engineering protein-corona-mediated tumor-targeted nanomedicines. Show less
This study aims to elucidate the role of Enterococcusin the progression from inflammatory bowel disease to colorectal cancer (CRC), with a focus on identifying key metabolites and host genes regulated Show more
This study aims to elucidate the role of Enterococcusin the progression from inflammatory bowel disease to colorectal cancer (CRC), with a focus on identifying key metabolites and host genes regulated by Enterococcusand their influence on CRC development. Using the database gutMGene, gutMDisorder and MACdb, we mined the key metabolites and human genes. We acquired the activated genes (panel 1) and inhibited genes (panel 2), and metabolite associated genes (MAGs, panel 3). Subsequent analyses included protein-protein interaction (PPI) network construction, functional enrichment, differential expression and survival analysis in CRC, and immune infiltration assessment. We screened 12 activated genes (Panel1: Show less
To explore the association between apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene polymorphisms and the risk of premature (age of onset: men ≤ 55 years old, women ≤ 65 years old) myocardial infarction (PMI). This study Show more
To explore the association between apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene polymorphisms and the risk of premature (age of onset: men ≤ 55 years old, women ≤ 65 years old) myocardial infarction (PMI). This study retrospectively collected the medical records (age, gender, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, smoking, drinking, and serum lipid) of 379 PMI patients and 628 age-matched non-AMI individuals (controls), from December 2018 to March 2024. The relationship between APOE polymorphisms and PMI was analyzed. 15(1.5%) individuals carried ɛ2/ɛ2, 147(14.6%) had ɛ2/ɛ3, 16(1.6%) presented with ɛ2/ɛ4, 670(66.5%) were ɛ3/ɛ3 carriers, 149(14.8%) had ɛ3/ɛ4, and 10 (1.0%) carried ɛ4/ɛ4. The proportion of ɛ2/ɛ3 genotype was significantly lower in the PMI group than in controls (7.7% vs. 18.8%, p < 0.001), whereas the prevalence of ɛ3/ɛ4 genotype was substantially higher in the PMI group (20.6% vs. 11.3%, p < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis identified some associated factors: smoking (odds ratio [OR]: 3.057, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.098-4.455, p < 0.001), hypertension (OR: 4.474, 95% CI: 3.273-6.117, p < 0.001), and dyslipidemia (OR: 1.805, 95% CI: 1.333-2.443, p < 0.001). Additionally, genetic factors were associated with PMI: the APOE ɛ3/ɛ4 genotype (vs. ɛ3/ɛ3, OR: 1.548, 95% CI: 1.038-2.309, p = 0.032) and the presence of ɛ4 allele (vs. ɛ3, OR: 1.521, 95% CI: 1.033-2.241, p = 0.034) were confirmed as independent associated factors. APOE ε3/ε4 genotype was significantly associated with PMI, suggesting that this genotype could serve as a potential genetic marker for PMI risk assessment. Show less
Atherosclerosis (AS), a chronic cardiovascular disease, originates from endothelial dysfunction, a process closely linked to cellular energy metabolism. While rosmarinic acid (RA) exhibits protective Show more
Atherosclerosis (AS), a chronic cardiovascular disease, originates from endothelial dysfunction, a process closely linked to cellular energy metabolism. While rosmarinic acid (RA) exhibits protective cardiovascular effects, its precise mechanism against AS remains undefined. This study demonstrates that RA alleviates AS in ApoE Show less
Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD), a major cause of low back pain, is primarily characterized by compromised regeneration ability of nucleus pulposus-derived stem cells (NPSCs) owing to their se Show more
Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD), a major cause of low back pain, is primarily characterized by compromised regeneration ability of nucleus pulposus-derived stem cells (NPSCs) owing to their senescence. The role of NPSCs as major regenerative cells in IVDD is garnering attention. However, the drivers and mechanisms of NPSCs reactivation and regeneration are poorly understood, limiting the development of targeted therapies. The fibroblast growth factor (FGF) family has shown increasing promise in tissue regeneration; however, the key factors involved in IVDD remain unclear. To elucidate the regenerative driver of NPSCs and the underlying anti-senescence mechanism to provide a potential therapeutic strategy. Single cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and bulk RNA sequencing were performed to identify the key NPSCs clusters and regenerative drivers in IVDD. Clinical IVDD samples were collected to determine the alterations in the NPSCs subset proportion and the expression of regeneration factors. Further, NPSCs senescence and in vivo models were utilized to investigate the specific mechanisms and therapeutic effects. Thy-1 membrane glycoprotein (THY1) Our findings elucidate the pivotal roles of THY1 Show less
Atherosclerosis is a major cause of cardiovascular diseases, and endothelial cells (ECs) senescence plays a key role in its initiation and progression. This study investigates the function and epigene Show more
Atherosclerosis is a major cause of cardiovascular diseases, and endothelial cells (ECs) senescence plays a key role in its initiation and progression. This study investigates the function and epigenetic regulatory mechanisms of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) OIP5 antisense RNA 1 (OIP5-AS1) in oxidized low-density lipoprotein (Ox-LDL)-induced senescence and atherosclerosis in human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs). The experiments show that Ox-LDL stimulation upregulates the expression of OIP5-AS1 and RASA1 while inhibiting miR-30b-5p. Silencing OIP5-AS1 significantly suppresses the expression of senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) factors, alleviates HAECs senescence, and enhances proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis. Methylation-specific primers (MSP) and bisulfite-specific primers (BSP) analyses reveal that Ox-LDL stimulation activates OIP5-AS1 expression by reducing the DNA methylation level in its promoter region and altering histone modifications (increased H3K27ac and decreased H3K9me3). Luciferase assays show that OIP5-AS1 acts as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) by binding to miR-30b-5p and upregulating RASA1. Animal experiments further confirm that the knockdown of OIP5-AS1 alleviates atherosclerosis in ApoE Show less
The quality of informal care for people with dementia (PwD) has gained increasing importance, as most PwD prefer home-based care over institutional placement. However, evidence-based intervention prog Show more
The quality of informal care for people with dementia (PwD) has gained increasing importance, as most PwD prefer home-based care over institutional placement. However, evidence-based intervention programs tailored to distinct care quality profiles remain limited. Additionally, the absence of clear thresholds to identify PwD receiving low-quality informal care poses a challenge for research and clinical practice. Thus, this study aimed to identify the profiles of quality of care (QoC) among informal caregivers of PwD, explore influencing factors of different profile, and determine the optimal cut-off score of the Exemplary Care Scale (ECS). A cross-sectional survey was conducted. A total of 213 dyads of PwD and their informal caregivers were recruited from memory clinic, rehabilitation clinic, and neurological clinic of a tertiary hospitals and communities in Wuhan, Hubei, China, between July 15, 2023, and July 14, 2024. Latent profile analysis (LPA) was employed to identify QoC profiles. Multinomial logistic regression was performed to explore influencing factors of profile membership. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis was conducted to determine the ECS cut-off score. Three distinct QoC profiles were identified: high (24.41%), moderate (44.60%), and low (30.99%). Among informal caregivers, lower monthly income, insufficient social support, and higher perceived overload were associated with low QoC profile, whereas, better quality of pre-illness relationship with PwD and greater activities of daily living (ADL) of PwD were associated with high QoC. ROC analysis yielded an optimal ECS cut‑off score of 15, with high sensitivity (0.993) and specificity (0.955). This study identified three distinct QoC profiles among caregivers of PwD, underscoring the heterogeneity of informal care quality. The identified predictors and the validated ECS cut‑off score of 15 provide an empirical basis for developing tailored screening tools and targeted interventions for high‑risk caregiver subgroups. Show less
According to existing research findings, dihydroartemisinin effectively regulates bone metabolism balance, while ferroptosis is closely related to the occurrence of steroid-induced osteonecrosis of th Show more
According to existing research findings, dihydroartemisinin effectively regulates bone metabolism balance, while ferroptosis is closely related to the occurrence of steroid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head. As the exact biological mechanism among the three is still unclear, Mendelian randomization, computer-aided drug design, and transcriptomics sequencing were used to explore the specific mechanism of action. The study validated the specific signaling pathways through which dihydroartemisinin may treat steroid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head using animal experiments and transcriptomics sequencing. Data were obtained from public databases for Mendelian randomization analysis, and a two-sample Mendelian randomization was used to determine the intermediary role of core pathway-related targets. Computer-aided drug design was employed to assess the binding affinity between dihydroartemisinin and core targets. Transcriptome sequencing determined that dihydroartemisinin may treat steroid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head by regulating ferroptosis. We obtained 564 ferroptosis-related targets that met the analysis criteria and 1812 plasma proteins from the UK Biobank, and analyzed finngen_R11_OSTEON_DRUGS in the Finnish database as outcome. The results showed that there were two quantitative trait loci that had a causal relationship with ferroptosis targets. There were 110 protein quantitative trait loci causally associated with plasma proteins from the UK Biobank, and none of these loci had an inverse causal relationship with SONFH. Through mediation analysis, 7 mediating pathways were identified, yielding eight targets including ZP3, CCL17, APOE, C7ORF50, SPINK4, SPINK2, FTMT, and PRDX6. Computer-aided drug design revealed that CCL17 and PRDX6 exhibited the best docking effects. The study determined that CCL17 and PRDX6 have a significant causal relationship with SONFH. It also clarified the specific mechanism by which DHA may regulate ferroptosis to treat SONFH, which will provide a reference for the discussion of the prevention and treatment mechanisms of SONFH. Show less
Primary dysmenorrhea (PDM) involves recurrent pelvic pain (RPP), alongside menstruation and psychological comorbidity, yet existing models inadequately capture its recurrent nature. In this study, we Show more
Primary dysmenorrhea (PDM) involves recurrent pelvic pain (RPP), alongside menstruation and psychological comorbidity, yet existing models inadequately capture its recurrent nature. In this study, we established a pharmacologically induced rat model of RPP, using estradiol benzoate and oxytocin over six 4-day cycles. The RPP model produced robust and sustained writhing responses, with writhing latency dropping from 30 to 4 min ( Show less
Pathological ocular neovascularization is closely linked to aberrant histone modifications, yet the underlying molecular mechanisms remain incompletely defined. This study investigates the role of the Show more
Pathological ocular neovascularization is closely linked to aberrant histone modifications, yet the underlying molecular mechanisms remain incompletely defined. This study investigates the role of the histone demethylase JMJD1C and its encoding gene Jmjd1c in driving pathological angiogenesis and evaluates its therapeutic potential in ocular proliferative vascular diseases. Jmjd1c expression was examined in mouse models of ocular neovascularization and in endothelial cells (ECs) using immunostaining, qRT-PCR, and Western blotting. The pro-angiogenic functions of JMJD1C were assessed through EdU incorporation, Transwell migration, tube-formation, and spheroid-sprouting assays in vitro, as well as retinal flat-mount isolectin-B4 staining and H&E staining in vivo. RNA sequencing, immunostaining, qPCR, Western blotting, and ChIP-qPCR were employed to dissect the molecular mechanisms by which JMJD1C regulates pathological angiogenesis. Endothelial-specific deletion of Jmjd1c markedly reduced pathological neovascularization in both oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) and laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV) models. Loss of JMJD1C impaired endothelial cell proliferation, migration, tube formation, and sprouting angiogenesis. Mechanistically, Jmjd1c deletion suppressed Srebf2 transcription and cholesterol biosynthesis by increasing repressive H3K9me2 histone marks in endothelial cells. Pharmacological inhibition of JMJD1C similarly attenuated neovascularization in wild-type mice. JMJD1C acts as a key regulator of pathological ocular angiogenesis through histone demethylation-mediated control of endothelial cholesterol biosynthesis. These findings establish JMJD1C and the Jmjd1c-Srebf2 regulatory axis as promising therapeutic targets for ocular vascular diseases. Show less
Older adults increasingly rely on digital health resources, yet evidence regarding the relationship between eHealth literacy (eHL) and 24-hour movement behaviors (24-HMB), including physical activity Show more
Older adults increasingly rely on digital health resources, yet evidence regarding the relationship between eHealth literacy (eHL) and 24-hour movement behaviors (24-HMB), including physical activity (PA), sedentary behavior (SB), and sleep, remains underexplored. This study examined the associations between eHL and 24-HMB in Chinese older adults and examined self-efficacy as a potential mediator and moderator. Using a convenience sampling approach, 564 community-dwelling older adults (aged 60-74 years) were recruited from four urban Chinese cities via an online survey. A total of 553 valid cases were retained for analyses. eHL was assessed using the eHealth Literacy Scale-Web 3.0, and self-efficacy was assessed using a validated Self-Efficacy Scale. PA and SB were assessed objectively using ActiGraph GT3X+ accelerometers over three consecutive days (two weekdays and one weekend day). Sleep duration was derived from accelerometer-based estimates anchored by daily sleep logs. Multiple linear regression analyses were conducted to examine associations, and mediation and moderation were tested using PROCESS macro (Model 4 and Model 1, respectively), adjusting for age, sex, and education. After adjustment for covariates ( In this cross-sectional, urban, device-using sample of older adults, higher eHL was associated with a more favorable 24-HMB profile, particularly higher LPA and lower SB, while associations with sleep duration were weaker. Self-efficacy showed modest indirect associations consistent with partial mediation for PA and SB and also acted as a moderator of several associations. Given the observational design and modest effect sizes, findings should be interpreted cautiously and require confirmation in longitudinal or experimental studies with more representative sampling and improved sleep assessment. Show less
While mindfulness has demonstrated efficacy in enhancing executive function in non-athletes through improved present-moment awareness and acceptance of current experiences, particularly regarding atte Show more
While mindfulness has demonstrated efficacy in enhancing executive function in non-athletes through improved present-moment awareness and acceptance of current experiences, particularly regarding attention regulation and cognitive control, its neurocognitive mechanisms and the effects and underlying mechanisms of mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) on different executive functioning skills in athletic populations remain poorly understood. The purpose of this randomized controlled trial tackles a novel and important topic by investigating the beneficial effects of 12-week MBI on executive functioning skills in baseball players-a population that faces unique cognitive and physical demands, and the associated neurophysiological and biochemical regulation mechanisms. Thirty-four baseball players were randomly divided into the MBI group (11M/6F) and the control group (11M/6F). Executive functioning skills (N-back task for working memory, Stroop task for inhibitory control, and Switching task for cognitive flexibility) were tested before and after the intervention. Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) was used to record quantified hemodynamic responses in the prefrontal cortex through oxygenated hemoglobin concentration (Oxy-Hb) monitoring during the performance of executive function tasks. Biomarkers of cognitive function, including BDNF, IL-6, TNF-α, and Cortisol, were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). MBI partially improved all three executive function skills, with increased Oxy-Hb level in L-FPA during the task of working memory, increased Oxy-Hb level in R-VLPFC during the task of inhibitory control, and decreased Oxy-Hb level in R-FPA, M-FPA, and L-DLPFC during the task of cognitive flexibility. Furthermore, MBI increased circulating BDNF level and decreased IL-6 and Cortisol levels. In addition, our correlation analyses showed that improvement in executive function (improved behavioral performances and changes in Oxy-Hb levels) were associated with changes in Cortisol and inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6). A 12-week MBI partially improved three components of executive function in baseball players. This enhancement may be attributed to the MBI-induced reductions in Cortisol and inflammatory cytokines (such as TNF-α and IL-6), which altered blood oxygen contents in specific brain regions, thereby promoting executive function. Show less
Calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD), the most common human valve disease on a global scale, ranks and persists as an unaddressed clinical challenge. This is primarily attributed to the absence of eff Show more
Calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD), the most common human valve disease on a global scale, ranks and persists as an unaddressed clinical challenge. This is primarily attributed to the absence of efficacious pharmacological approaches. The Nuclear Receptor Subfamily 4 Group A Member 1 (NR4A1), intricately associated with the pathogenesis of multiple cardiovascular diseases, has emerged as a pivotal target for the diagnosis and treatment of numerous ailments. However, the specific molecular mechanisms and the functional significance of NR4A1 in the pathogenesis of CAVD are yet to be comprehensively elucidated. By performing in-depth analyses on human aortic valve tissues and carrying out functional investigations using primary valvular interstitial cells (VICs), we were able to demonstrate that NR4A1 significantly facilitated cellular proliferation and intensifies the osteogenic differentiation process of VICs. Evidently, this is reflected in the elevated expression of key osteogenic markers, namely runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). Mechanistically, the pro-calcific effects were achieved via NR4A1-dependent modulation of the cell cycle regulatory protein Cyclin D2 (CCND2). Significantly, Show less
Fear of progression (FoP) is a prevalent psychological issue among stroke patients. Previous studies failing to distinguish characteristics of patient groups with varying FoP levels. Latent profile an Show more
Fear of progression (FoP) is a prevalent psychological issue among stroke patients. Previous studies failing to distinguish characteristics of patient groups with varying FoP levels. Latent profile analysis (LPA) classifies individuals into distinct subgroups via continuous FoP indicators, boosting classification accuracy by accounting for variable uncertainty. Given FoP's heterogeneity, investigating FoP profiles and their influencing factors in stroke patients is clinically significant for personalized psychological care and improved patient quality of life. A total of 366 stroke patients were selected as study subjects through convenience sampling, and a cross-sectional survey was conducted. FoP was assessed using the Fear of Progression Questionnaire-Short Form (FoP-Q-SF, 2 dimensions, 12 items). Independent variables included demographic characteristics, clinical indicators, the Recurrence Risk Perception Scale for Stroke patients (RRPSS), and the Medical Coping Modes Questionnaire (MCMQ). LPA was performed on the FoP-Q-SF items to identify subgroups. The R3STEP method was used to analyze influencing factors of subgroup membership, and the BCH method was applied to compare differences in distal outcomes across subgroups. Statistical significance was set at The study sample had a mean age of 63.93 ± 10.58 years, with 70.5% males and 65.0% first-ever stroke patients. Two latent profiles were identified: Low-FoP Adaptive Type (C1, 48.6%) and High-FoP Sustained Type (C2, 51.4%). The R3STEP showed that age 18-59 years (OR = 0.476, 95%CI = 0.245-0.924, This study revealed significant heterogeneity in FoP among stroke patients. Age, hypertension comorbidity, excessive recurrence risk perception, MCMQ-confrontation, and MCMQ-avoidance were associated with high FoP. Healthcare providers should prioritize identifying high-risk individuals and develop tailored interventions to reduce FoP and improve rehabilitation outcomes. Show less
Focal articular cartilage defects often progress to osteoarthritis, imposing a substantial global health burden. Current neglect of cartilage developmental regulation and cartilage microenvironment co Show more
Focal articular cartilage defects often progress to osteoarthritis, imposing a substantial global health burden. Current neglect of cartilage developmental regulation and cartilage microenvironment compromises therapeutic efficacy. We developed an innovation CE-SKP/CPH/P2G3 scaffold which effectively repairs focal cartilage defects and emulates native cartilage ontogeny: the superficial CE-SKP hydrogel layer recruits SMSCs and promotes chondrogenesis; the middle CPH hydrogel layer induces chondrocyte hypertrophic calcification, forming cartilage calcified layer; and the basal P2G3 nanofiber membrane isolates subchondral cells, enforcing a top-down developmental sequence and preserving a localized hypoxic niche. Show less
As a progressive neurological degenerative disorder, Alzheimer's disease (AD) remains a significant concern, with the lack of effective cures burdening healthcare resources and posing ongoing obstacle Show more
As a progressive neurological degenerative disorder, Alzheimer's disease (AD) remains a significant concern, with the lack of effective cures burdening healthcare resources and posing ongoing obstacles for scientific research in neuroscience. Tianwang Buxin Pills (TWBXP) is a traditional Chinese medicinal formula long employed for treating amnesia and cognitive decline, and has shown promising potential in AD treatment. Nevertheless, the detailed mechanisms responsible for these effects warrant further investigation. This study seeks to systematically evaluate the impact of TWBXP on cognition, neuronal damage, and synaptic plasticity in AD mice, while clarifying its underlying therapeutic mechanisms. HPLC-UV was employed to ensure the quality of TWBXP. APP/PS1 mice were administered TWBXP (0.43, 0.85, 1.70 g/kg) for 8 weeks, and cognitive performance was assessed using behavioral tests. AD-related pathology was evaluated by Immunohistochemistry (IHC), Western blotting, ELISA, Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and Immunofluorescence (IF). The integration of Network Pharmacology and Proteomics was conducted for the exploration of potential mechanisms. TWBXP markedly improved cognitive performance and reduced cerebral Aβ burden. It promoted microglial polarization toward an M2 phenotype, dampened neuroinflammation, and enhanced microglia-associated Aβ clearance. TWBXP also exerted marked neuroprotective and synaptic protective effects by increasing NeuN, MAP2, and MBP levels, restoring synaptic proteins (PSD95, SYP) and neurotrophic factors (BDNF, NGF), reducing neuronal loss and functional impairment, and improving synaptic plasticity. Such effects might be associated with the enhanced activity of the cAMP/PKA/NR2B/CaMKⅡ signaling axis. TWBXP significantly ameliorated cognitive impairment and AD-related pathological changes in APP/PS1 mice, accompanied by improvements in neuronal injury and synaptic plasticity. Its therapeutic effects may be associated with the regulation of microglial function and the cAMP/PKA/NR2B/CaMKII signaling axis. Show less
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a serious chronic liver disease with limited therapeutic options. Fibroblast growth factor (FGF) analogs show promising therapeutic Show more
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a serious chronic liver disease with limited therapeutic options. Fibroblast growth factor (FGF) analogs show promising therapeutic benefits for MASLD, yet the underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Here, we studied the mechanism underlying the anti-steatotic properties of FGF1, the prototype member of the FGF family. The effect of FGF1 was studied in human and rodent hepatocytes and in obese mouse models exhibiting acute or chronic endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress characteristic of MASLD. Metabolic analysis and proteomics were applied to evaluate liver physiology, ER stress and signaling. We show that FGF1 reduces hepatic triglyceride (TG) levels in obese mice (51%, These results define ER stress-dependent modulation of VLDL secretion as a mechanism underlying the anti-steatotic activity of FGF1. Targeting the FGF-UPR pathway may thus have therapeutic potential for treating MASLD. Fibroblast growth factors show therapeutic potential in both preclinical models and clinical trials for treating metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, a highly prevalent condition with limited treatment options. Identifying the mechanisms underlying their anti-steatotic effects may accelerate clinical development. Our finding that triglyceride secretion is the major driver of the anti-steatotic action of FGF1, together with the involvement of an adaptive unfolded protein response, provides deeper insight into the therapeutic potential of this pathway. These results also highlight possible implications for liver physiology and for the circulating lipoprotein profile, with relevance for both efficacy and safety considerations. Show less
Neuropathic pain (NP), a chronic disorder caused by somatosensory nervous system lesions, severely impairs the quality of life. Microglial metabolic reprogramming and neuroinflammation drive NP progre Show more
Neuropathic pain (NP), a chronic disorder caused by somatosensory nervous system lesions, severely impairs the quality of life. Microglial metabolic reprogramming and neuroinflammation drive NP progression. Although ChREBP (key metabolic regulator) protects against NP, its specific mechanisms remain unclear. NP rat model was established via spared nerve injury (SNI) surgery, and mechanical allodynia was evaluated using Von Frey tests. ChREBP expression in microglia was detected through immunofluorescence, RT-qPCR, and western blot. Functional studies involved ChREBP knockdown/overexpression to assess effects on microglial polarization, neuroinflammation, neuronal excitability, pain behaviors, and fatty acid metabolism. Mechanisms were explored via dual-luciferase reporter and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays. Mechanical pain thresholds were significantly decreased on the ipsilateral side after SNI. ChREBP was upregulated in SDH microglia after SNI and in LPS-stimulated microglia in vitro. ChREBP knockdown inhibited anti-inflammatory microglial polarization, exacerbated neuroinflammation, and aggravated pain. Conversely, ChREBP overexpression promoted the anti-inflammatory phenotype, suppressed neuroinflammation, and alleviated pain. ChREBP enhanced microglial fatty acid oxidation and energy metabolism. Mechanistically, ChREBP bound to the TFBS1 site on the PGC-1α promoter to activate its transcription. PGC-1α overexpression rescued the impairments caused by ChREBP knockdown, including reduced fatty acid oxidation, suppressed anti-inflammatory polarization, elevated inflammatory factors, and increased neuronal excitability. The protective effects of ChREBP were attenuated by the fatty acid oxidation inhibitor Etomoxir. ChREBP alleviates NP by enhancing microglial fatty acid oxidation and anti-inflammatory phenotype via PGC-1α transcriptional activation, revealing a novel metabolic-immune axis for potential NP therapy. Show less
Long noncoding RNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 5 (SNHG5) has been implicated in cell death, glucose homeostasis, and tumor progression, yet its role in atherosclerosis (AS) remains unclear. In this Show more
Long noncoding RNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 5 (SNHG5) has been implicated in cell death, glucose homeostasis, and tumor progression, yet its role in atherosclerosis (AS) remains unclear. In this study, SNHG5 expression was markedly elevated in aortic tissues of high-fat diet-fed apoE Show less
24-h activity encompasses four categories: light-intensity physical activity (LPA), moderate-to-vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA), sedentary behavior (SB), and sleep (SP). This study aims to Show more
24-h activity encompasses four categories: light-intensity physical activity (LPA), moderate-to-vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA), sedentary behavior (SB), and sleep (SP). This study aims to investigate the effects of different physical activity components on executive function in older adults with chronic diseases and to examine substitution effects among activity components. The findings provide scientific evidence to inform physical activity interventions for improving executive function in older adults with chronic diseases. A total of 105 older adults (72.64 ± 6.82 years) were recruited. Following questionnaire screening, 75 older adults with chronic diseases were ultimately included. Accelerometers objectively measured participants' daily SP, SB, LPA, and MVPA. Executive function was objectively assessed using the Stroop task, N-back task, and More-odd-shifting task. Component linear regression equation assessed the relationship between different activities and executive function in older adults with chronic diseases. The dose-response effects of "one-for-one" substitutions between different activity behaviors were explored. Component linear regression results showed that SB positively correlated with inhibitory control ( SP and MVPA significantly improve inhibitory control in older adults with chronic diseases, while LPA significantly enhances their working memory. It is recommended that older adults with chronic diseases adjust their daily time structure by increasing diverse physical activities, ensuring adequate sleep duration, and reducing sedentary behavior to improve executive function. Show less
Tianpei Ma, Xin Chen, Qingwen Zhao+19 more · 2026 · The journals of gerontology. Series A, Biological sciences and medical sciences · Oxford University Press · added 2026-04-24
Cognitive impairment is a significant health concern in aging populations, but the interplay between biological aging, lifestyle factors, and genetic susceptibility remains unclear. This study examine Show more
Cognitive impairment is a significant health concern in aging populations, but the interplay between biological aging, lifestyle factors, and genetic susceptibility remains unclear. This study examined whether accelerated biological aging is associated with cognitive impairment, whether lifestyle modifies this association, and how genetic background influences these relationships in Chinese older adults. In this cross-sectional study (2022-2023), 7033 participants from southwestern China were included. Accelerated biological aging was calculated as the residual difference between biological age (based on 10 biomarkers) and chronological age. Lifestyle was assessed via a composite index (smoking, alcohol, physical activity, diet, sleep). Cognitive function was measured using the Chinese Mini-Mental State Examination (C-MMSE), and genetic risk was evaluated through polygenic scores and APOE ε4 status. Linear and logistic regression models assessed associations between accelerated aging and cognition. Accelerated biological aging was associated with lower MMSE scores ( β = -0.243, 95% CI: -0.354, -0.133) and higher cognitive impairment prevalence (OR = 1.098, 95% CI: 1.040, 1.158). An unhealthy lifestyle exacerbated cognitive impairment in biologically older individuals (RERI = 0.25). Those with both accelerated aging and unhealthy lifestyle had the lowest MMSE scores ( β = -1.424, 95% CI: -1.846, -1.003) and highest odds of cognitive impairment (OR = 1.467, 95% CI: 1.194, 1.803). These effects were consistent across all genetic background subgroups. Accelerated aging was associated with lower cognitive function, especially in individuals with unhealthy lifestyles, regardless of genetic susceptibility. This highlights lifestyle modification as a potential intervention target for aging-related cognitive impairment. Show less
C-reactive protein (CRP) is a liver-derived soluble marker of inflammation whose levels can predict the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and therapeutic efficacy of statins. Intriguingly Show more
C-reactive protein (CRP) is a liver-derived soluble marker of inflammation whose levels can predict the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and therapeutic efficacy of statins. Intriguingly, however, CRP is not considered as a mediator of atherosclerosis based primarily on studies examining chow diet (CD)-fed mice. The aim of this study is to investigate the role of CRP in high-fat diet (HFD)-induced atherosclerosis, which models a more prevalent scenario in the real world, and to clarify its impact on Atorvastatin treatment. Apoe-sufficient or -deficient mice with or without Crp knockout were fed with CD, HFD, or methionine- and choline-deficient diet, or subjected to carotid artery ligation or Atorvastatin treatment. Hepatic, vascular, and metabolic indexes were then analyzed. The effects of CRP on lipid droplet formation were examined by cellular assays. Knockout of Crp in Apoe-deficient mice does not affect the progression of atherosclerosis under CD feeding, but significantly reduces plaque burden under HFD feeding. The pro-atherosclerotic effects of Crp are not due to direct modulation of vascular inflammation, but appear to be the result of enhanced lipid accumulation in the liver and the ensuing aggravation of hyperlipidemia. Mechanistically, Crp enhances hepatic lipid accumulation by upregulating Cidea to promote the formation of enlarged lipid droplets in hepatocytes. We further show that the therapeutic efficacy of Atorvastatin on HFD-induced atherosclerosis in Apoe-deficient mice is largely dependent on Crp. Our findings identify a previously unrecognized role of CRP in enhancing hepatic lipid accumulation under stresses induced by dietary or genetic factors, which underlies its secondary impact on atherosclerosis and determines the therapeutic efficacy of Atorvastatin. Show less