Apolipoprotein A5 (ApoA5) and Cell Death-Inducing DNA Fragmentation Factor-like Effector C (CIDEC) are involved in hepatic lipid metabolism and implicated in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic Show more
Apolipoprotein A5 (ApoA5) and Cell Death-Inducing DNA Fragmentation Factor-like Effector C (CIDEC) are involved in hepatic lipid metabolism and implicated in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). This study explores the role of the ApoA5-CIDEC interaction in regulating hepatic lipid metabolism, inflammation and fibrosis in MASLD. C57BL/6 J mice were used to evaluate hepatic steatosis, liver function, and fibrosis under different ApoA5 expression conditions. Co-immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence confirmed ApoA5-CIDEC interaction on lipid droplets (LDs). HepG2 cells were used to assess the effects of ApoA5 and CIDEC on triglycerides (TG), free fatty acids (FFAs), fatty acid beta-oxidation (FAO), and de novo lipogenesis (DNL). Key lipid metabolism and inflammatory markers, including fatty acid-binding protein 4 (FABP4), were analyzed. ApoA5-overexpression in mice improved hepatic steatosis, function, and fibrosis, reducing TG, FFAs, DNL, ApoB secretion, and pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion (IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α), while enhancing FAO in HepG2 cells. ApoA5-knockdown led to opposite effects. ApoA5 and CIDEC co-localized with LDs, interacting with FABP4 to jointly regulate lipid metabolism and inflammation. The effects of ApoA5 were mediated through reduced CIDEC expression. ApoA5 regulates hepatic lipid metabolism, inflammation, and fibrosis through its interaction with CIDEC. Targeting the ApoA5-CIDEC axis may provide a novel therapeutic approach for treating MASLD. KEY MESSAGES: ApoA5 reduces hepatic fibrosis and inflammatory cytokine secretion. ApoA5 interacts and co-localizes with CIDEC on lipid droplets. ApoA5-CIDEC interaction regulates lipid metabolism and inflammatory cytokine secretion in hepatocytes. ApoA5-CIDEC axis regulates FABP4 expression. Targeting the ApoA5-CIDEC axis offers therapeutic potential for MASLD. Show less
To investigate the association between polymorphisms of the A case-control study was conducted, enrolling 100 HTG patients and 100 age-matched controls with normal triglyceride levels from the physica Show more
To investigate the association between polymorphisms of the A case-control study was conducted, enrolling 100 HTG patients and 100 age-matched controls with normal triglyceride levels from the physical examination cohort at Guangzhou 11th People's Hospital (January-December 2023) The observation group showed significant differences in genotype frequencies of Show less
Hypertriglyceridemia is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. This study examined the polygenic variants associated with high serum triglyceride concentration (high-TG) and their inte Show more
Hypertriglyceridemia is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. This study examined the polygenic variants associated with high serum triglyceride concentration (high-TG) and their interactions with lifestyle factors using data from the UK Biobank (n = 479,300) and the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (KoGES; n = 57,939). High-TG group was categorized based on over 200 mg/dL fasting serum TG concentrations (Caucasians, UK Biobank, n = 100,543; Koreans, KoGES, n = 7211). Polygenic risk scores (PRS) were calculated using risk alleles from genetic variants identified through a genome-wide association study (GWAS) and generalized multifactor dimensionality reduction (GMDR) analyses. Koreans showed higher frequencies of risk alleles in GCKR, APOA5, SIK3, and APOE genes compared to Caucasians. After adjusting for covariates, a PRS including lipoprotein lipase (LPL)_rs328, apolipoprotein A5 (APOA5)_rs2072560, and glucokinase regulator (GCKR)_rs780093 showed a 2.2-fold (UK Biobank) and 2.6-fold (KoGES) increased risk of high-TG among Caucasians and Koreans, respectively. In both cohorts, the PRS was positively associated with metabolic syndrome, serum low high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol, and high low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol concentrations, but inversely associated with high-TG. These variants were linked to the chylomicron and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) remodeling pathways in Multimarker Analysis of GenoMic Annotation (MAGMA) gene analysis. Significant interactions were observed between the PRS and lifestyle factors, namely plant-based diet (P = .0008), alcohol consumption (P = .0022), and smoking status (P < .001) in both cohorts. Additionally, in the KoGES cohort, vitamin D intake (P = .027) and the glycemic index (P = .045) interacted with the PRS to influence high-TG risk. Similar genetic variants affected high-TG risk across populations despite ethnic differences in risk allele frequencies. The identified PRS significantly interacted with plant-based diet, alcohol consumption, and smoking status in both cohorts, with additional interactions observed with vitamin D intake and glycemic index in the Korean cohort. Show less
This pioneering genome-wide association study examined surrogate markers for insulin resistance (IR) in 147,880 Taiwanese individuals using data from the Taiwan Biobank. The study focused on two IR su Show more
This pioneering genome-wide association study examined surrogate markers for insulin resistance (IR) in 147,880 Taiwanese individuals using data from the Taiwan Biobank. The study focused on two IR surrogate markers: the triglyceride to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG:HDL-C) ratio and the TyG index (the product of fasting plasma glucose and triglycerides). We identified genome-wide significance loci within four gene clusters: GCKR, MLXIPL, APOA5, and APOC1, uncovering 197 genes associated with IR. Transcriptome-wide association analysis revealed significant associations between these clusters and TyG, primarily in adipose tissue. Gene ontology analysis highlighted pathways related to Alzheimer's disease, glucose homeostasis, insulin resistance, and lipoprotein dynamics. The study identified sex-specific genes associated with TyG. Polygenic risk score analysis linked both IR markers to gout and hyperlipidemia. Our findings elucidate the complex relationships between IR surrogate markers, genetic predisposition, and disease phenotypes in the Taiwanese population, contributing valuable insights to the field of metabolic research. Show less
The current study aimed to clarify the roles of apolipoprotein A5 (ApoA5) and milk fat globule-epidermal growth factor 8 (Mfge8) in regulating myocardial lipid deposition and the regulatory relationsh Show more
The current study aimed to clarify the roles of apolipoprotein A5 (ApoA5) and milk fat globule-epidermal growth factor 8 (Mfge8) in regulating myocardial lipid deposition and the regulatory relationship between them. The serum levels of ApoA5 and Mfge8 in obese and healthy people were compared, and the obesity mouse model induced by the high-fat diet (HFD) was established. In addition, primary cardiomyocytes were purified and identified from the hearts of suckling mice. The 0.8 mmol/L sodium palmitate treatment was used to establish the lipid deposition cardiomyocyte model Show less
Pancreatic cancer (PC), characterized by the absence of effective biomarkers and therapies, remains highly fatal. Data regarding the correlations between PC risk and individual plasma proteome known f Show more
Pancreatic cancer (PC), characterized by the absence of effective biomarkers and therapies, remains highly fatal. Data regarding the correlations between PC risk and individual plasma proteome known for minimally invasive biomarkers are scarce. Here, we analyzed 1,345 human plasma proteins using proteome-wide association studies, identifying 78 proteins significantly associated with PC risk. Of these, four proteins (ROR1, FN1, APOA5, and ABO) showed the most substantial causal link to PC, confirmed through Mendelian randomization and colocalization analyses. Data from two clinical cohorts further demonstrated that FN1 and ABO were notably overexpressed in both blood and tumor samples from PC patients, compared to healthy controls or para-tumor tissues. Additionally, elevated FN1 and ABO levels correlated with shorter median survival in patients. Multiple drugs targeting FN1 or ROR1 are available or in clinical trials. These findings suggest that plasma protein FN1 associated with PC holds potential as both prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Show less
To explore the correlation between different traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) constitution types and apolipoprotein B (ApoB) in patients with hyperuricemia (HUA) and to investigate the relationships Show more
To explore the correlation between different traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) constitution types and apolipoprotein B (ApoB) in patients with hyperuricemia (HUA) and to investigate the relationships between TCM constitutions, uric acid levels, and various cardiovascular risk factors. A cross-sectional study involving 683 patients diagnosed with HUA was conducted. Patients' TCM constitutions were classified using the standardise "Classification and Determination of TCM Constitution" questionnaire. Serum uric acid (UA), lipid profiles, ApoB, and homocysteine (Hcy) levels were measured. Among 683 HUA patients, phlegm-dampness (22.99% ) and damp-heat constitution (20.06% ) were the most common TCM constitution types. UA, ApoB, and Hcy levels in patients with phlegm-damp constitution were significantly higher than those in other constitutions (P< 0.05). UA levels were negatively correlated with HDL-C (r=-0.472, P= 0.027) and positively correlated with ApoB (r= 0.618, P= 0.012) and Hcy (r= 0.492, P= 0.018). Phlegm-damp and damp-heat constitutions are the most common TCM constitution types in HUA patients and are associated with higher levels of UA, ApoB, and Hcy. These constitutional types are independently associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Show less
Cholecystectomy alters lipid profiles and is associated with the risk of major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE), yet the results are ambiguous. To assess the causal effects of cholec Show more
Cholecystectomy alters lipid profiles and is associated with the risk of major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE), yet the results are ambiguous. To assess the causal effects of cholecystectomy on blood lipid levels and risks of MACCE, we performed Mendelian randomization (MR) aiming to reduce confounding. We used genetic data on gallbladder removal, lipid levels, and MACCE from public databases. MR analysis estimated causal effects using genetic variants as instruments. Enrichment analysis identified relevant metabolic pathways, while multivariable MR evaluated specific lipid subtypes. Expression Quantitative Trait Loci MR pinpointed key genes, with cellular distribution insights from single-cell sequencing. Cholecystectomy was associated with delayed onset of angina, coronary heart disease, heart failure, myocardial infarction, and stroke. The ApoB/ApoA1 ratio was a key mediator, and the LPL gene influenced lipid-related cardiovascular risk. Cholecystectomy may reduce cardiovascular risks by lowering the ApoB/ApoA1 ratio, which highlights the role of lipid regulation in mitigating cardiovascular risk post-cholecystectomy. Show less
To systematically evaluate the causal effects of lipoproteins on ischemic stroke (IS) through a systematic review and meta-analysis of Mendelian randomization (MR) studies. A comprehensive literature Show more
To systematically evaluate the causal effects of lipoproteins on ischemic stroke (IS) through a systematic review and meta-analysis of Mendelian randomization (MR) studies. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science to identify MR studies investigating the relationship between lipoproteins and IS, covering all publications up to November 2024. Relevant data were extracted, followed by a quality assessment. Meta-analyses were performed using RevMan software, with evaluations of heterogeneity and publication bias. A total of 442 studies were evaluated, and 10 were included. Our meta-analysis showed a significant positive correlation between LDL and IS (OR 1.09, 95% CI 1.07-1.12; This meta-analysis provides evidence for a causal relationship between various lipoproteins and ischemic stroke. Most non-HDL lipoproteins (LDL, VLDL, apoB) are associated with an increased risk of IS, while HDL and apoA1 appear to confer a protective effect. The role of Lp(a) in IS remains inconclusive and warrants further investigation. https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO, CRD42024617825. Show less
To analyze the potential therapeutic value and mechanism of luteolin in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) using network pharmacology and cellular experiments. SHD-compound targets were retrieved Show more
To analyze the potential therapeutic value and mechanism of luteolin in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) using network pharmacology and cellular experiments. SHD-compound targets were retrieved from the TCMSP database, while AMD-related targets were extracted from OMIM and DisGeNET databases. Overlapping targets were identified via Venny 2.1. A PPI network was constructed using the STRING database, followed by functional enrichment analysis of overlapping targets via Metascape. Pharmacological networks were mapped using Cytoscape. For cellular experiments, the optimal concentration of luteolin was determined by CCK-8 assay. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were divided into: Control group (Without any intervention), Model group (VEGF165-induced model), and Treatment group (VEGF165-induced + luteolin). Angiogenesis was evaluated via scratch, transwell migration, invasion, and tube formation assays. VEGFA protein expression was assessed by Western blot. We identified 157 SHD-compound targets and 87 AMD-related targets, yielding 6 overlapping targets (ESR1, PON1, SOD1, APOB, VEGFA, IL6). PPI networks and enrichment analysis revealed that luteolin in SHD may inhibit AMD neovascularization via VEGFA signaling pathways. The concentration of luteolin (25 µmol/L) used in the experiments was selected based on the dose-response results. In vitro assays showed the Treatment group exhibited: significantly reduced horizontal migration (scratch assay, p < 0.05), decreased vertical migration (transwell assay, p < 0.05), suppressed invasion (p < 0.05), and inhibited tube formation (p < 0.05). Western blot confirmed reduced VEGFA expression in the treatment group (p < 0.05). Luteolin alleviates angiogenesis in HUVECs by inhibiting VEGFA expression, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic candidate for neovascular AMD. Show less
To assess the predictive ability of baseline serum apolipoprotein B (ApoB) and the ratio of ApoB to apolipoprotein A1 (ApoB/ApoA1 ratio) for dyslipidemia risk in patients receiving second-generation a Show more
To assess the predictive ability of baseline serum apolipoprotein B (ApoB) and the ratio of ApoB to apolipoprotein A1 (ApoB/ApoA1 ratio) for dyslipidemia risk in patients receiving second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs). Medical records of patients hospitalized between March 2019 and March 2025 were retrospectively reviewed. The optimal cut-off points for baseline serum ApoB levels and the ApoB/ApoA1 ratio were identified using a maximally selected log-rank statistic analysis. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models estimated hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). The Kaplan-Meier method with Log rank testing was used to compare the cumulative incidence of dyslipidemia between groups defined by these cut-off points. Of 311 enrolled patients, 33 (10.6%) lacking baseline ApoA1 measurements were excluded from ApoB/ApoA1 ratio analyses. The optimal cut-off points were 0.70 g/L for baseline ApoB and 0.45 for the ApoB/ApoA1 ratio. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models, fully adjusted for covariates, demonstrated significantly elevated dyslipidemia risk for patients exceeding these thresholds vs low-risk groups: adjusted HR 2.98 (95% CI: 2.05-4.32, p < 0.001) for high ApoB and 3.17 (95% CI: 1.62-6.22, p = 0.001) for high ApoB/ApoA1 ratio. Continuous analysis showed each 0.1 g/L ApoB increase conferred a 34% higher risk (adjusted HR 1.34, 95% CI: 1.21-1.48, p < 0.001), while each 0.1-unit ApoB/ApoA1 ratio increase conferred a 20% higher risk (adjusted HR 1.20, 95% CI: 1.10-1.30, p < 0.001). Kaplan-Meier curves confirmed significantly higher cumulative dyslipidemia incidence in high vs low groups for both markers (Log rank test, both p < 0.001). Baseline serum ApoB levels and the ApoB/ApoA1 ratio are valuable risk markers for dyslipidemia in patients treated with SGAs. Show less
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death worldwide, according to global statistics from the WHO and GBD, with the incidence of acute coronary syndromes (ACS) continuing to rise Show more
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death worldwide, according to global statistics from the WHO and GBD, with the incidence of acute coronary syndromes (ACS) continuing to rise annually. This study aims to develop a nomogram model to predict the risk in ACS patients with hypertension, providing clinicians with a tool for early diagnosis, personalized treatment, and prognostic evaluation. Data were collected from ACS patients at Huangshi Aikang Hospital between 2018 and 2023. Patient characteristics, including age, sex, hypertension history, initial blood test results, and cardiac doppler ultrasonography findings, were recorded. ACS diagnosis followed the 2019 revised Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Acute ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) by the Chinese Society of Cardiology. The 2024 Revised Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Non-ST-Segment Elevation Acute Coronary Syndromes from the Chinese Journal of Cardiovascular Diseases were used for NSTEMI and unstable angina (UA) diagnoses. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS (version 27.0.1) and R software (version 4.3.2), with statistical significance at P < 0.05. A total of 980 ACS patients were included in the study. Among the three clinical subtypes, 592 patients (60.4%) had UA, which was the most prevalent. The hypertensive group comprised 682 ACS patients (69.59%), with a mean age of 64.93 ± 9.51 years. Significant differences between hypertensive and non-hypertensive groups were found in sex (P = 0.001), age (P < 0.001), clinical subtype (P < 0.001), and several clinical and laboratory parameters, including creatinine (Cr) (P < 0.001), left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (P = 0.049), left ventricular posterior wall thickness (LVPW) (P = 0.003), CK-MB (P = 0.019), AST (P = 0.028), total cholesterol (TC) (P = 0.035), LDL-C (P = 0.007), and APOB (P = 0.005). Using LASSO regression, nine variables were selected for multivariate logistic regression analysis, leading to the construction of the nomogram model. The calibration curve, Hosmer-Lemeshow test, ROC curve, decision curve, and clinical impact curve all demonstrated the model's high quality. A high-quality predictive nomogram model for assessing the risk of ACS in patients with hypertension has been developed. This model can assist clinicians in early diagnosis, personalized treatment, and prognostic evaluation. Show less
The objective of this study was to assess the correlation between the ApoB/ApoA ratio and the recurrence of kidney stones in a Chinese adult population. We collected electronic records of patients wit Show more
The objective of this study was to assess the correlation between the ApoB/ApoA ratio and the recurrence of kidney stones in a Chinese adult population. We collected electronic records of patients with kidney stones who underwent surgical treatment at our hospital from March 2016 to March 2022. These patients were followed up and categorized into groups based on the recurrence of kidney stones. Parameters related to routine blood and biochemical tests, as well as the history of hypertension and diabetes mellitus, were gathered. Multiple imputation was applied for missing data. Subsequently, differences between the recurrence and non-recurrence groups were assessed using the chi-square test, independent samples t test, or Wilcoxon rank sum test. Logistic regression analysis, subgroup analysis, and propensity-matched analysis were conducted to evaluate the relationship between the ApoB/ApoA ratio and kidney stone recurrence. The study included a total of 923 participants aged > 18 years, among whom 296 experienced kidney stone recurrence during the follow-up period. An elevated ApoB/ApoA ratio was identified as a risk factor for kidney stone recurrence (adjusted OR = 2.48, 95% CI 1.04, 5.92). Propensity-matched analyses further supported the association, showing that elevated ApoB/ApoA ratios were linked to a higher risk of renal stone recurrence (OR = 3.37, 95% CI 1.24-9.17). The dose-response curve illustrated a positive linear correlation between the ApoB/ApoA ratio and the risk of kidney stone recurrence. Increased ApoB/ApoA ratios are positively correlated with the risk of kidney stone recurrence. This association remains significant, although a causal relationship cannot be definitively established. Show less
Pentadecanoic acid (PEA), an odd-chain fatty acid derived from diet by the gut microbiome, has garnered increasing attention for its systemic health-promoting properties. Its potential role in bladder Show more
Pentadecanoic acid (PEA), an odd-chain fatty acid derived from diet by the gut microbiome, has garnered increasing attention for its systemic health-promoting properties. Its potential role in bladder cancer (BC) occurrence and invasion, however, remains unclear. Large-scale cohorts' analyses were performed to assess the association between dietary PEA and BC occurrence and invasion. In vitro and in vivo experiments, including EJ and T24 BC cell assays and a BBN-induced mouse model, were conducted to experimentally assess the impact of PEA on BC. Serum proteomics, gut microbiome, and targeted fecal lipidomics analyses were employed to explore the underlying mechanisms. Dietary PEA was negatively associated with BC occurrence and invasion in cohort analyses. PEA suppressed EJ and T24 BC cell migration, invasion, and proliferation, while inhibiting BC development in a BBN-induced mouse model. In vivo serum proteomics identified differentially expressed lipid-related proteins (e.g., Apoe and Apob) following PEA treatment, implicating its modulation of lipid metabolism pathways. Considering the essential role of the gut-bladder axis, the gut microbiome analysis exhibited that PEA markedly altered bacteria (e.g., g_Alistipes) and fungi (e.g., o_Erysiphales, g_Teberdinia, and g_Gibberella), with concomitant lipid metabolism changes. Furthermore, targeted fecal lipidomics demonstrated the shifts in key lipids, such as phosphatidylethanolamines (PE) involved in essential lipid clusters, suggesting regulation by gut microbiome linked to BC development. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that PEA mitigates BC by reshaping the gut microbiome and modulating lipid metabolism, providing new insights into its molecular and therapeutic potential. Show less
Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP-4i) serve as an incretin-based hypoglycemic class for the treatment of type 2 diabetes (T2D). DPP-4i have been reported to produce a pleiotropic effect on lipid Show more
Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP-4i) serve as an incretin-based hypoglycemic class for the treatment of type 2 diabetes (T2D). DPP-4i have been reported to produce a pleiotropic effect on lipid profiles in addition to regulation of glucose homeostasis. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to quantitatively evaluate the impact of DPP-4i on lipid parameters in patients with T2D. PubMed, Embase, and The Cochrane Library were systematically searched for randomized controlled trials. Trials were identified if changes in lipid parameters, including low-density-lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density-lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), non-HDL-C, and apolipoprotein B (ApoB) were reported. A total of 95 publications were identified. DPP-4i significantly reduced levels of LDL-C (-3.48 mg/dL; 95% CI, -4.77 to -2.20; I2 = 70%, P < .00001), TC (-2.59 mg/dL; 95% CI, -3.88 to -1.29; I2 = 73%, P < .0001), TG (-5.39 mg/dL; 95% CI, -8.04 to -2.75; I2 = 77%, P < .0001), and non-HDL-C (-6.27 mg/dL; 95% CI, -10.94 to -1.60; I2 = 53%, P = .008). No significant effect was found on HDL-C (-0.32 mg/dL; 95% CI, -1.19 to 0.55; I2 = 97%, P = .47) and ApoB (-0.88 mg/dL; 95% CI, -3.36 to 1.60; I2 = 36%, P = .49) during DPP-4i treatment. DDP-4i significantly improved lipid parameters including LDL-C, TC, TG, and non-HDL-C in patients with T2D. This underscores the potential cardiovascular benefits of DPP-4i and their role in improving diabetes-related outcomes. PROSPERO registration no. CRD42020175999. 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
Biochemical items play a significant role in clinical decision-making, so this study aims to evaluate the performance of different biochemical platforms. We collected 1,524 serum samples that were cen Show more
Biochemical items play a significant role in clinical decision-making, so this study aims to evaluate the performance of different biochemical platforms. We collected 1,524 serum samples that were centrifuged, and plasma was analyzed for HDL-C, LDL-C, Apo A1, Apo B, PA, and Fs-CRP with the Mindray BS2000M and Roche Cobas 8000 platforms. The results were evaluated by a non-parametric two-related sample test, Passing-Bablok regression analysis, Weighted Least Square analysis (WLS), and Bland-Altman analysis according to CLSI EP09-A3, EP5-A2, and EP15-A3. Between the two systems, there were statistically significant differences in the average bias of LDL-C, Apo A1, Apo B, PA, and Fs-CRP ( These findings suggest that the two platforms have good correlation and consistency in high-concentration medical decision levels in HDL-C, LDL-C, Apo A1, Apo B, and Fs-CRP, and all levels of PA in the two platforms are interchangeable and can replace each other. Show less
The clinical significance and contribution of the lipid profile in atherosclerosis are well established. However, further investigation is needed in stroke patients, particularly regarding apolipoprot Show more
The clinical significance and contribution of the lipid profile in atherosclerosis are well established. However, further investigation is needed in stroke patients, particularly regarding apolipoprotein B100 (ApoB100), a novel non-traditional lipid component in the lipid profile. To explore lipid parameters and their impact on stroke outcomes in patients with and without thrombolysis. We prospectively enrolled patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) at a single center, including those who did and did not receive thrombolysis. Participants were stratified into improvement (favorable outcome at 2 weeks) and non-improvement groups. Demographic, laboratory, imaging, and clinical scale data were compared between groups. Random forest analyses were used to evaluate the predictive value and importance of individual lipid measures: triglycerides, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), ApoB100, and lipoprotein(a), which better describe the internal characteristics of the profile. Complete data were available for 262 AIS patients, 165 of whom received thrombolysis. Plasma ApoB100 levels were significantly lower in the thrombolysis group (p < 0.001) and decreased ApoB100 levels were independently associated with 2-week stroke improvement (p = 0.009, OR = 0.89, 95% CI: 0.84-0.93). Random-forest feature-importance plots revealed that HDL and ApoB100 (each contributing > 15%) were the strongest lipid predictors of a favorable outcome, outperforming the other lipid variables. We found that thrombolysis is associated with ApoB100 decrease and a decrease in ApoB100 can predict the 2-week functional improvement in stroke. HDL and ApoB100 emerge as more important determinants of favorable AIS outcomes in this machine-learning analysis. These findings warrant external validation in multi-center trials. ChiCTR1800018315, 11/09/2018. Show less
Neonatal piglets possess lysosome-rich foetal-type enterocytes that facilitate uptake and intracellular processing of maternally provided nutrients. However, the role of lysosomes in early-life growth Show more
Neonatal piglets possess lysosome-rich foetal-type enterocytes that facilitate uptake and intracellular processing of maternally provided nutrients. However, the role of lysosomes in early-life growth and intestinal maturation remains unclear. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine the role of lysosomes in the development of neonatal intestine in piglets. For 1-day-old neonatal piglets, a total of 12 piglets (Duroc × (Landrace × Large Yorkshire)) were divided into 2 groups using a split-litter design. To initiate malfunction in lysosomes, newborn piglets were subjected to oral gavage with imipramine (25 mg/kg bodyweight) once daily for 7 days. For 21-day-old piglets, a total of 12 piglets were divided into two groups, and each group received the same treatment as described above. Piglets receiving imipramine demonstrated significantly stunted growth at 7 days of age, but not at 27 days. By postnatal day 7, the foetal-type enterocytes of untreated piglets were restricted in the mid to upper ileal villus and contained several large lysosomal vacuoles. In contrast, marked changes in ileal morphological and histological structure were observed following imipramine treatment, as evidenced by reduced degree of vacuolation, decreased lysosomal count, as well as pronounced mitochondrial swelling; however, no vacuolated enterocytes were found in 27-day-old piglets. Furthermore, signaling pathways associated with lipid transport and metabolism were significantly enriched, and the related hub genes were identified by bioinformatic analysis after imipramine administration. These findings were further confirmed by biochemical analysis demonstrating that serum levels of total cholesterol (TC) and apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1) were significantly increased while serum ApoB was decreased in 7-day-old piglets receiving imipramine treatment. Additionally, there was an opposite trend in levels of ApoA1and ApoB in ileal mucosa compared to serum. These results demonstrate that lysosome dysfunction induced by imipramine resulted in significant growth retardation, pronounced morphological and ultrastructural alterations in ileal enterocytes, along with disrupted lipid metabolism in early postnatal piglets; however, no such effect was observed in 27-day-old piglets. These findings enhance understanding of lysosomal functions and intestinal maturation in neonatal piglets. Show less
Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) has now been the primary target for lipid-lowering therapy in the European and US guidelines for the management of dyslipidemia, with increasing interest in Show more
Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) has now been the primary target for lipid-lowering therapy in the European and US guidelines for the management of dyslipidemia, with increasing interest in apolipoprotein B (ApoB) as a secondary target. The relationship between ApoB and the severity of acute myocardial infarction as well as residual risk still needs to be further determined. Coronary atherosclerosis occurs as a result of a complex set of factors, and there is a strong relationship between insulin resistance and cardiovascular disease. In contrast, there are limited studies on the relationship between TyG index (triglyceride glucose index), an indicator of insulin resistance, and cardiovascular disease. The purpose of this study was to investigate the value of ApoB and TyG index in assessing the severity of myocardial infarction and predicting prognosis. This study included 712 participants with acute myocardial infarction for a 5-year follow-up. Spearman correlation analysis and generalized linear model analysis were used to assess the correlation between ApoB and the severity of coronary atherosclerosis. Risk regression analysis was used to assess the correlation between ApoB and residual risk in patients with acute myocardial infarction, and the C-statistic, net reclassification index (NRI), and integrated discriminant improvement index (IDI) were further calculated to assess the predictive value of ApoB for residual risk after myocardial infarction. Categorizing apoB, LDL-C, and TyG indices according to tertiles, higher levels of ApoB were significantly associated with the severity of coronary artery stenosis in patients with acute myocardial infarction ( ApoB is an independent risk factor for major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) following myocardial infarction. Elevated ApoB levels are more advantageous than elevated LDL-C levels in assessing the severity of coronary artery stenosis in myocardial infarction patients and predicting residual risk after myocardial infarction. Therefore, in patients with acute myocardial infarction, ApoB can be considered to guide further intensive treatment. However, the TyG index did not demonstrate a significant advantage in predicting cardiovascular residual risk in this study. Show less
Lipid metabolism abnormalities and inflammation have been implicated in gallstone disease (GSD) development, but the causal relationships and potential mediation effects among lipid metabolites, infla Show more
Lipid metabolism abnormalities and inflammation have been implicated in gallstone disease (GSD) development, but the causal relationships and potential mediation effects among lipid metabolites, inflammatory factors, and GSD remain unclear. The aim of this study is to explore the causal relationships among these 3 factors. This study employed 2-sample Mendelian Randomization (TSMR) and 2-step MR to investigate the causal relationships and potential mediation effects among 91 inflammatory factors, 6 lipid metabolism-related molecules (HDL-C, LDL-C, TG, total cholesterol, ApoA1, and ApoB), and GSD. We opted for 4 distinct MR analysis methods including inverse variance weighted method, weighted median method, MR-Egger regression method and MR-PRESSO analysis. Sensitivity analyses included MR-Egger intercept tests, Cochran's Q statistic, Steiger tests, and leave-one-out analyses. Product of coefficients method was used to estimate mediation proportion. TSMR analysis revealed that every 1-unit increase in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), total cholesterol (TC), apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1), and apolipoprotein B (ApoB), the risk of GSD decreased by 16.5%, 10.2%, 8.4%, and 13.1%, respectively. Inflammatory factors such as Natural killer cell receptor 2B4 (CD244), Macrophage colony-stimulating factor 1 (CSF-1), and interleukin-18 receptor 1 (IL-18R1) were identified as risk factors for GSD, while Fibroblast growth factor 19 levels (FGF19), Interleukin-1-alpha levels (IL-1α), and Interleukin-8 levels (IL-8) were found to be protective. Mediation analysis through 2-step MR identified potential pathways involving ApoA1--IL-8--GSD (P = .084) and IL-1α--ApoB--GSD (P = .117). This study provides robust evidence of causal links between specific lipid metabolites and GSD, as well as suggestive causal associations for several inflammatory factors. However, mediation analysis did not support significant roles for lipids or inflammatory factors as mediators in GSD pathogenesis. Future research could be further pursued in areas such as drug target intervention and mechanistic studies. Show less
Emerging lipid-modifying agents show potential but lack evidence for the management of uric acid and gout. We aimed to explore the causal effects of lipid traits, lipid-modifying drugs on uric acid le Show more
Emerging lipid-modifying agents show potential but lack evidence for the management of uric acid and gout. We aimed to explore the causal effects of lipid traits, lipid-modifying drugs on uric acid levels and risk of gout. Two-sample MR analyses were performed to investigate the associations of genetically predicted lipid traits (LDL-C, HDL-C and TG) and lipid-modifying drug targets (PCSK9, HMGCR, NPC1L1, CETP, ABCG5/G8, APOB, LDLR, LPL, ANGPTL3, and APOC3) with uric acid levels and gout risk. Validation analyses were performed using the independent cohort of the UK Biobank. Summary-data-based MR was further conducted to estimate the associations of the expression of drug target genes with the outcomes. Genetically predicted lower HDL-C and higher TG were significantly associated with elevated uric acid levels ( The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s43657-024-00212-7. Show less
Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is closely associated with insulin resistance (IR) and systemic inflammation. Apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1) and Apolipoprotein B (ApoB), as notable non-tra Show more
Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is closely associated with insulin resistance (IR) and systemic inflammation. Apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1) and Apolipoprotein B (ApoB), as notable non-traditional lipid markers, have demonstrated distinct advantages in identifying risks related to metabolic syndrome and coronary atherosclerosis, yet its association with MAFLD and the mediating roles of IR/inflammation remain unclear. This retrospective investigation involved 1061 participants, categorized into a non-MAFLD group ( The MAFLD group exhibited markedly elevated levels of neutrophils/lymphocytes, neutrophils/platelets, systemic immune inflammation index, systemic inflammation response index, pan-immune-inflammation value and triglyceride-glucose index (TyG), TyG body mass index (TyGBMI), and metabolic score for insulin resistance (METS-IR) compared to the non-MAFLD group. Logistic regression analysis revealed that ApoB/ApoA1, TyG, TyGBMI, and METS-IR were markedly linked to MAFLD risk. Spearman's correlation analysis identified substantial positive links between ApoB/ApoA1 and TyG ( Our findings clarify the complex interrelationships between ApoB/ApoA1, MAFLD risk, inflammation, and IR, and for the first time, demonstrate that IR may act as a key potential mediator in the link between ApoB/ApoA1 and MAFLD, rather than systemic inflammation. This suggests that IR may serve a more prominent role than chronic systemic inflammation in the association between lipid metabolism and MAFLD risk, and intervening in IR may be more effective than anti-inflammatory therapy in blocking the progression from lipid metabolism disorders to MAFLD. Show less
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is showing a trend toward earlier onset. Premature CAD (PCAD) is clinically defined as CAD with onset before the age of 55 in males and 65 in females. Notably, many young Show more
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is showing a trend toward earlier onset. Premature CAD (PCAD) is clinically defined as CAD with onset before the age of 55 in males and 65 in females. Notably, many young patients subsequently hospitalized with acute cardiovascular events had undergone annual physical examinations before hospitalization, yet were not identified as high-risk by current risk stratification guidelines or traditional risk assessment tools. This study aims to investigate the diagnostic capacity of novel inflammatory biomarkers (including the monocyte-to-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (MHR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), apolipoprotein B to apolipoprotein A-1 ratio (apoB/apoA-1), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (LDL-c/HDL-c)) for PCAD, thereby providing the evidence-based foundation for PCAD screening. A total of 1,012 young subjects (male<55 years, female<65 years) undergoing diagnostic coronary angiography (CAG) at the Third Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University (from January 2022 to February 2023) were retrospectively analyzed. We stratified 1,012 eligible participants into two groups: 521 angiographically confirmed PCAD cases and 491 controls with normal coronary arteries. Comprehensive baseline characteristics, including cardiovascular risk profiles and core laboratory-measured inflammatory markers, were recorded. The Mann-Whitney U test and binary logistic regression analysis were employed to assess the associations between inflammatory biomarkers and PCAD. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves (AUCs) were calculated to evaluate their diagnostic performance for PCAD. The odds ratio (OR) values for MHR, NLR, LDL-c/HDL-c, and apoB/apoA-1 were 5.592 (95% CI: 2.886-7.836), 1.671 (95% CI: 1.500-1.861), 1.663 (95% CI: 1.419-1.950), and 6.268 (95% CI: 2.765-8.213), respectively (all The apoB/apoA-1 outperformed MHR, NLR, and LDL-c/HDL-c as an inflammatory biomarker in PCAD. Its diagnostic capacity was notably enhanced in ACS subgroups. A comprehensive model combining apoB/apoA-1 with traditional risk factors demonstrated exceptional accuracy. Incorporating this biomarker into routine screening protocols could significantly strengthen preventive strategies. Show less
An increasing body of research indicates an association between lipid-lowering medications and sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), although there is still controversy. Therefore, the aim of this study Show more
An increasing body of research indicates an association between lipid-lowering medications and sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), although there is still controversy. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the genetic correlation between different lipid-lowering therapeutic gene targets and SNHL. The genetic association between lipids, lipid-lowering drug target genes, and SNHL was analyzed using a 2-sample Mendelian randomization approach. The exposures included 5 circulating lipid levels (triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, apolipoprotein A-I, and apolipoprotein B) and 10 target genes simulating the effects of lipid-lowering drugs (HMGCR, PCSK9, Niemann-Pick C1-like 1 [NPC1L1], LDLR, APOB, CETP, LPL, ANGPTL3, APOC3, and PPARA). Summary data from a large-scale genome-wide association study on SNHL from the Finnish database were used as the outcome. The inverse variance-weighted method was employed as the primary approach, with sensitivity tests conducted to evaluate heterogeneity and pleiotropy in the results. The genetic prediction of lipid levels was not significantly associated with SSNL. However, genetic proxies for lowering low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, specifically variants in NPC1L1 (OR = 1.943 [95% CI 1.116-3.383]; P = .018) and LDL receptor (LDLR) (OR = 1.279 [95% CI 1.107-1.477]; P < .001), were associated with an increased risk of SNHL. Similarly, a genetic proxy for lowering triglycerides, the apoprotein C-III (APOC3) variant (OR = 1.174 [95% CI 1.054-1.307]; P = .003), was associated with an increased risk of SNHL. After Bonferroni correction, the genetic variants for LDLR and APOC3 remained significantly associated with an increased risk of SNHL, while the association with the NPC1L1 lipid-lowering variant was no longer significant. This study suggests that lipid-lowering medications potentially have a causal impact on increasing the risk of SNHL through the LDLR and APOC3 pathways. LDLR and APOC3 show potential as candidate drug targets for the prevention of SNHL. However, the results of the study and the potential mechanism of action require further experimental validation and evaluation. Show less
OxPL-apoB (oxidized phospholipids [OxPL] on apoB-100), which include OxPL present on Lp(a) (lipoprotein[a]), are associated with higher cardiovascular risk. Experimental studies suggest that OxPL may Show more
OxPL-apoB (oxidized phospholipids [OxPL] on apoB-100), which include OxPL present on Lp(a) (lipoprotein[a]), are associated with higher cardiovascular risk. Experimental studies suggest that OxPL may influence platelet function. This observational study assessed the association of OxPL-apoB with intrinsic and on‑clopidogrel platelet reactivity and long-term cardiovascular events in patients undergoing coronary angiography with or without percutaneous coronary intervention in 2040 patients in the EXCELSIOR trial (Impact of Extent of Clopidogrel-Induced Platelet Inhibition During Elective Stent Implantation on Clinical Event Rate). The association of OxPL-apoB to expression of CD62P, CD41, or PAC-1 levels and intrinsic and on-clopidogrel platelet reactivity to collagen and ADP was determined. The relationship of OxPL-apoB and Lp(a) to myocardial infarction-free survival and all-cause mortality at a median of 7 years was assessed using Cox regression models. Elevated levels of OxPL-apoB were associated with the severity of coronary obstruction, and higher prevalence of prior myocardial infarction, percutaneous coronary intervention, and coronary artery bypass graft surgery. No significant associations were present between OxPL-apoB and intrinsic or on-clopidogrel platelet reactivity or activation of platelet receptors. Analyzed individually in separate multivariable models, both OxPL-apoB (hazard ratio, 1.022 [95% CI, 1.005-1.040]; In patients undergoing coronary angiography with or without percutaneous coronary intervention, OxPL-apoB was not associated with intrinsic and on-clopidogrel platelet reactivity mediated by collagen or ADP. The association of OxPL-apoB and Lp(a) suggests that the accumulation of OxPL on Lp(a) may be a key determinant of long-term cardiovascular outcomes. URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT00457236. Show less