This study aims to investigate the spectrum and prognosis of membranous nephropathy (MN) in patients with Sjögren's syndrome (SS). SS patients with biopsy-proven kidney involvement who were diagnosed Show more
This study aims to investigate the spectrum and prognosis of membranous nephropathy (MN) in patients with Sjögren's syndrome (SS). SS patients with biopsy-proven kidney involvement who were diagnosed at our center between April 2007 and February 2024 were retrospectively reviewed and analyzed. A total of 290 SS patients with kidney involvement were enrolled. The frequency of MN increased from 16.28% during the 2007-2010 period to 44.05% during the 2021-2024 period. After 2016, MN became the most common renal pathologic type, surpassing tubulointerstitial nephritis. PLA2R antibody or antigen was detected in 74 SS-MN patients, in whom 37 (50%) showed a negative result. Within the PLA2R-negative group, five out of 15 showed positivity for EXT1/EXT2 antigen and one out of eight for THSD7A antigen. Sixty-one SS patients with MN were followed up for >6 months, and 44 (72.13%) of them achieved renal complete remission (CR). Compared with PLA2R-negative patients, PLA2R-positive patients spent a longer time to achieve CR (1.46 ± 1.16 vs. 0.74 ± 0.47 years, MN has become the predominant renal pathologic type in SS. PLA2R-positivity testing followed by EXT1/EXT2 and THSD7A testing is recommended for SS-MN patients. Although most patients can achieve renal CR, the prognosis is usually poor in PLA2R-positive SS-MN patients. Show less
Abnormal lipid accumulation is an important cause of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) progression and can induce several stress responses within cells. This study is the fi Show more
Abnormal lipid accumulation is an important cause of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) progression and can induce several stress responses within cells. This study is the first to explore the role and molecular mechanism of stress granules (SGs) in MAFLD. A gene knock-down model of G3BP1, a core SG molecule in mice and HepG2 cells, was constructed to explore the role of SGs in MAFLD induced in vivo by a high-fat diet or in vitro by palmitic acid (PA). Methods included metabolic phenotyping; western blotting; qPCR; and immunofluorescence, haematoxylin/eosin and masson staining. The downstream molecules of G3BP1 and its specific molecular mechanism were screened using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). G3BP1 and TIA1 expression were upregulated in high-fat diet-fed mouse liver tissues and PA-induced HepG2 cells, and the two molecules showed significantly increased colocalisation. G3BP1 knock-down slightly increased TIA1 expression in the livers of obese mice but not in lean mice. G3BP1 deficiency aggravated liver lipid deposition and insulin resistance in obese mice, and this phenotype was confirmed in vitro in PA-induced hepatocytes. RNA-seq demonstrated that G3BP1 slowed down MAFLD progression by inhibiting APOC3, possibly through a mechanistic suppression of APOC3 entry into the nucleus. This study reveals for the first time a protective role for SGs in MAFLD. Specifically, knocking down the core G3BP1 molecule in SGs aggravated the progression of fatty acid-induced MAFLD through a mechanism that may involve the nuclear entry of APOC3. These findings provide a new therapeutic direction for MAFLD. Show less
The embryos of lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.) is a famous traditional Chinese medicine used to treat insomnia, memory decline, and dementia for a long time. However, the underlying material basis an Show more
The embryos of lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.) is a famous traditional Chinese medicine used to treat insomnia, memory decline, and dementia for a long time. However, the underlying material basis and mechanisms of this medicine are still unclear. Isoliensinine (IL) is a major alkaloid derived from lotus embryos. Our previous research has demonstrated that IL can exert strong anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects in vitro. To reveal the underlying therapeutic effect and mechanism of IL on Alzheimer's disease (AD)-like mice induced by AlCl The AD-like mice were modeled by intragastric injection (i.g.) of AlCl IL (1, 3, and 10 mg/kg) treatment effectively ameliorated cognitive impairment in AD-like model mice. IL inhibited the decrease of brain index and body weight in AD-like mice and alleviated neuronal damage in the cortex and hippocampus (DG, CA1, and CA3). IL decreased the levels of Ca IL has a significant therapeutic effect on pathological alterations and cognitive impairment in AlCl Show less
Integration of human genomics and other omics across different ancestries provides novel, affordable, and systematic approach for target identification. We used Mendelian randomization approaches to u Show more
Integration of human genomics and other omics across different ancestries provides novel, affordable, and systematic approach for target identification. We used Mendelian randomization approaches to unravel causal associations between 2,940 circulating proteins and 19 CVD. We found 218 proteins that impacted risk of one or more CVDs through forward MR (106 and 182 using cis-pQTLs only and cis- + trans-pQTLs, respectively), among which 107 were previously reported as associated with CVD or CVD-related traits. There were 102 proteins replicated (FDR < 5%, 53 with cis-pQTLs only and 88 with cis- + trans-pQTLs) using the FinnGen Olink data. BTN3A2 was highlighted as a novel candidate gene for ischemic stroke, suggesting a crosstalk between immune modulation and stroke pathogenesis. Single cell integration prioritized PAM for stable angina pectoris and ventricular arrhythmia and LPL for peripheral artery disease, whose transcriptional expressions were enriched in cardiomyocytes. Forward and reverse MR found largely non-overlapping proteins (only 2 overlapped: LGALS4 and MMP12), suggesting distinct proteomic causes and consequences of CVD. Our study provides human genetics-based evidence of novel candidate genes, a foundational step towards full-scale causal human biology-based drug discovery for CVD. Show less
Given the lack of evidence, we cannot definitively determine the relationship between attachment networks and problematic mobile phone use, hindering effective intervention strategies. Therefore, a th Show more
Given the lack of evidence, we cannot definitively determine the relationship between attachment networks and problematic mobile phone use, hindering effective intervention strategies. Therefore, a three-wave longitudinal study was designed to explore the heterogeneity of parent-child attachment networks using latent profile analysis (LPA) and random intercept latent transition analysis (RI-LTA). Participants included 2116 adolescents (ages 14-21; 53.8% girls). Results identified five stable parent-child attachment network profiles, each showing moderate but decreasing stability. Notably, adolescents who were grouped into an attachment network characterized by secure maternal attachment but insecure paternal attachment, similar to those in attachment networks with both insecure maternal and paternal attachment, scored higher levels of problematic mobile phone use than those who were grouped into attachment networks with both secure maternal and paternal attachment. Our findings fill empirical gaps and provide strong evidence supporting attachment-based interventions to reduce problematic mobile phone use. Show less
While fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2) emerges as an appealing cancer therapeutic target, so far there is no selective FGFR2 inhibitor on the market. Here, we report the discovery of a seri Show more
While fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2) emerges as an appealing cancer therapeutic target, so far there is no selective FGFR2 inhibitor on the market. Here, we report the discovery of a series of new selective, irreversible FGFR2 inhibitors with compound BW710 being the representative. Compound BW710 potently inhibited the proliferation of BaF3-FGFR2 cells with an IC Show less
Animal models are used widely to study pulmonary hypertension (PH). The cell populations that respond to disease-inducing stimuli in these models and their relationship to human disease remain incompl Show more
Animal models are used widely to study pulmonary hypertension (PH). The cell populations that respond to disease-inducing stimuli in these models and their relationship to human disease remain incompletely defined. This study analyzed the relationship between several rodent models of PH and human disease at single-cell resolution. scRNA-seq was performed on lungs from mice exposed to hypoxia or Sugen/hypoxia, rats exposed to monocrotaline, and controls. A cross-species single-cell dataset was integrated with human lung cell atlas (HLCA) and single-cell dataset from idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH) to identify overlapping cell subsets between experimental and human disease and species. High levels of overlap were found between species and models of PH, HLCA, and IPAH datasets. Cell subsets perturbed in rat and mouse PH were similar to those found in human disease, with macrophages and endothelial cells being most affected. A novel We established a comprehensive cross-species single-cell atlas of mainstream rodent PH models, highlighting several novel macrophage and endothelial subtypes and signaling motifs potentially contributing to human disease. Show less
Familial Hypercholesterolaemia (FH) is characterised by high cholesterol and premature cardiovascular disease. While hypercholesterolaemia and inflammation are both key drivers in the formation of ath Show more
Familial Hypercholesterolaemia (FH) is characterised by high cholesterol and premature cardiovascular disease. While hypercholesterolaemia and inflammation are both key drivers in the formation of atherosclerotic plaques, inflammation remains understudied in FH. Inflammatory (M1) macrophages contribute to plaque destabilisation and macrophage precursors, monocytes, can be skewed towards an inflammatory state. Aims: Determine; whether monocytes of FH individuals are inflammatory, if they readily form inflammatory macrophages, and whether this remains so in statin-treated individuals. Blood samples were collected from people with FH (statin-treated and untreated) and healthy controls. Lipid profile was obtained and monocyte inflammatory marker expression was determined by whole blood flow cytometry. Monocytes were cultured with autologous serum and resultant macrophage profile determined by flow cytometry. Total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) were higher in the Untreated-FH group compared to the Treated-FH group and controls. In both Treated-FH and Untreated-FH groups, monocytes were inflammatory with high CD86 (M1). The ratio of inflammatory/anti-inflammatory markers (CD86/CD163) significantly correlated with LDL-C and ApoB/ApoA1 ratio across the cohort, indicating the high LDL-C of FH may promote an inflammatory monocyte profile. Monocyte-derived-macrophages from (Treated) FH individuals also had a more inflammatory profile (CD86 and CD86/CD163). Overall, monocytes show inflammatory skewing in FH individuals, even those with moderately-reduced cholesterol levels. These monocytes readily become inflammatory macrophages. This, along with subsequent inflammatory macrophage formation, could contribute to plaque destabilisation and downstream clinical events. This supports inflammatory monocyte targeting as a potential approach to reduce residual risk in FH individuals. Show less
The beak bean, found only in waterfowl and Galliformes, aids in foraging, self-defense and pecking hard objects. Its rich coloration results from prolonged evolutionary adaptation. This study analyzed Show more
The beak bean, found only in waterfowl and Galliformes, aids in foraging, self-defense and pecking hard objects. Its rich coloration results from prolonged evolutionary adaptation. This study analyzed beak bean phenotypes of duck at 10, 20, 30 and 40 days of age, revealing that the most common type is the black beak bean, characterized by melanin deposition on the beak surface. This study performed single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-based genome-wide association studies (GWASs) to investigate the genetic basis of beak bean color, identifying signals on chromosome 1. The copy number variation region-based GWAS revealed a consistent candidate region overlapping with the SNP-based GWAS signals, further supporting the importance of this genomic region. Locus zoom analysis further refined the candidate regions to 48.5-50.5 and 50.8-52.8 Mb. Functional enrichment analysis highlighted six candidate genes within these regions: KITLG, DUSP6, GALNT4, MGAT4C, ATP2B1 and NTS. Notably, KITLG and DUSP6, which are linked to melanin production, were identified as key candidate genes for beak bean color. Our finding revealed the genetic basis of the bean color traits for the first time in ducks, providing a theoretical foundation and technological framework for enhancing duck beak coloration. Show less
Hyperglycemia accelerates Alzheimer's disease (AD) progression, yet the role of monosaccharides remains unclear. Here, it is demonstrated that mannose, a hexose, closely correlates with the pathologic Show more
Hyperglycemia accelerates Alzheimer's disease (AD) progression, yet the role of monosaccharides remains unclear. Here, it is demonstrated that mannose, a hexose, closely correlates with the pathological characteristics of AD, as confirmed by measuring mannose levels in the brains and serum of AD mice, as well as in the serum of AD patients. AD mice are given mannose by intra-cerebroventricular injection (ICV) or in drinking water to investigate the effects of mannose on cognition and AD pathological progression. Chronic mannose overload increases β-amyloid (Aβ) burdens and exacerbates cognitive impairments, which are reversed by a mannose-free diet or mannose transporter antagonists. Mechanistically, single-cell RNA sequencing and metabolomics suggested that mannose-mediated N-glycosylation of BACE1 and Nicastrin enhances their protein stability, promoting Aβ production. Additionally, reduced mannose intake decreased BACE1 and Nicastrin stability, ultimately lowering Aβ production and mitigating AD pathology. this results highlight that high-dose mannose consumption may exacerbate AD pathogenesis. Restricting dietary mannose may have therapeutic benefits. Show less
Heart failure (HF) as the terminal stage of various cardiac diseases, its underlying molecular mechanisms still remain elusive. Emerging evidence have implicated long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a m Show more
Heart failure (HF) as the terminal stage of various cardiac diseases, its underlying molecular mechanisms still remain elusive. Emerging evidence have implicated long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a multifaceted role in the progression of cardiac hypertrophy and HF. Here, it is identified that a lncRNA forkhead box O6, opposite strand (Foxo6os) is significantly downregulated in murine HF model induced using transverse aortic constriction (TAC). Knockdown of Foxo6os accelerates cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, reflects as elevated expression of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), and myosin heavy chain 7 (MYH7). Conversely, Foxo6os overexpression can improve cardiac function and alleviate adverse cardiac remodeling. Mechanistically, Foxo6os directly interacts with myosin-binding protein-C (MYBPC3), which then recruits protein kinase C alpha (PKC-α) to facilitate MYBPC3 phosphorylation, resulting in maintaining myocardial contractility and postponing HF progression. Therefore, these findings underscore the critical role of Foxo6os in preserving cardiomyocyte contractile function, suggesting a potential for Foxo6os as a novel therapeutic target of HF. Show less
Central nervous system (CNS) tumors often harbor alterations in genes regulating key cellular pathways, including fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) genes. Here, we report the efficacy and safet Show more
Central nervous system (CNS) tumors often harbor alterations in genes regulating key cellular pathways, including fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) genes. Here, we report the efficacy and safety of treatment with pemigatinib, an oral, potent, selective FGFR1-3 inhibitor, in patients with advanced FGFR-altered CNS tumors. FIGHT-207 was a single-arm, open-label, phase 2 study of pemigatinib in patients with advanced solid tumors harboring FGFR fusions/rearrangements or other mutations. Patients received pemigatinib 13.5 mg once daily until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Endpoints included tumor response and safety. Of the 13 patients with CNS tumors in FIGHT-207, 10 had glioblastoma. Fibroblast growth factor receptor alterations were FGFR3-TACC3 fusions (n = 9), FGFR1 K656E mutations (n = 2), FGFR1 N546K mutation (n = 1), and FGFR1-MITF fusion (n = 1). Three patients (23%) displayed objective responses (1 complete, 2 partial). Safety was consistent with the overall FIGHT-207 population. Pemigatinib had antitumor activity and a manageable safety profile in patients with CNS tumors. Show less
Gentidelasides A-G (1-7) seven unreported loganin derivatives and fourteen known compounds (8-21) were isolated from the flowers of Gentiana delavayi Franch. Their structures including absolute config Show more
Gentidelasides A-G (1-7) seven unreported loganin derivatives and fourteen known compounds (8-21) were isolated from the flowers of Gentiana delavayi Franch. Their structures including absolute configurations were unambiguously elucidated by analysis of extensive NMR spectroscopy, ECD, and HRESIMS, as well as enzymatic hydrolysis. In vitro bioassay, compound 7 showed obvious inhibitory effects on the production of Aβ40 and Aβ42, with IC Show less
Palmitic acid (PA), being the most prevalent free fatty acid in the human, holds significant implications as a risk factor for atherosclerosis (AS) due to its ability to induce physiological dysfuncti Show more
Palmitic acid (PA), being the most prevalent free fatty acid in the human, holds significant implications as a risk factor for atherosclerosis (AS) due to its ability to induce physiological dysfunction in endothelial cells (ECs). Endothelial cell-specific molecule 1 (ESM1), has been identified as a marker for activated ECs. Nevertheless, the mechanisms underlying ESM1-induced endothelial cell proliferation remain elusive. The expression of ESM1, ANGPTL4 and autophagy related protein were confirmed by western blot. Proliferation ability was tested by MTT and EdU. Lipids level was confirmed by Oil red staining. Autophagic flux was confirmed by Monodansylcadaverine (MDC) staining and pCMV-mCherry-GFP-LC3B fluorescence staining assay. The mouse model of AS was used to observe the effect of PA on the ESM1-ANGPTL4-autophagy signaling axis. This study elucidates ESM1-ANGPTL4 axis in maintaining proliferation of ECs and lipid reprogramming. Furthermore, it has been observed that PA has the ability to stimulate EC to autonomously increase the expression of ESM1, which in turn can counteract the detrimental effects of PA on ECs. Conversely, when ESM1 is suppressed, the damaging effects of PA on ECs are exacerbated. Mechanistically, our findings indicate that ESM1 facilitates EC proliferation and lipids homeostasis by up-regulating autophagy through ANGPTL4. This effect of ESM1 on ECs can be attenuated by ATG7 inhibiting. Additionally, the serum levels of ESM1 were found to be elevated in AS mice. ESM1 was found to enhance ECs proliferation and mitigate endothelial cell injury induced by PA through the upregulation of autophagy. This mechanism potentially serves as a protective factor against atherosclerosis progression. Show less
The Tibetan sheep is a typical hypoxia-tolerant mammal, which lives on the plateau, at an altitude of between 2500 and 5000 m above sea level; the study of its hypoxic adaptation mechanism provides a Show more
The Tibetan sheep is a typical hypoxia-tolerant mammal, which lives on the plateau, at an altitude of between 2500 and 5000 m above sea level; the study of its hypoxic adaptation mechanism provides a reference for exploring the hypoxic adaptation mechanism of other animals. To grope for the genetic mechanism of adaptation to the hypoxic environment at the transcriptional level in Tibetan sheep testicular tissue, and to identify candidate genes and key pathways related to sheep adaptation, histological observation of testicular tissues from two sheep breeds was carried out using haematoxylin-eosin (HE) conventional staining. A total of 103 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were authenticated in high altitude Tibetan sheep (ZYH) and low altitude Tibetan sheep (ZYM) by RNA sequencing technology (RNA-Seq), which included 50 up-regulated genes and 53 down-regulated genes. Functional analyses revealed several terms and pathways that were closely related to testis adaptation to the plateau. Several genes (including GGT5, AGTR2, EDN1, LPAR3, CYP2C19, IGFBP3, APOC3 and PKC1) were remarkably enriched in several pathways and terms, which may impact the Plateau adaptability of sheep by adjusting its reproductive activity and sexual maturation, and protecting Sertoli cells, various spermatocytes, and spermatogenesis processes. The results make a reasonable case for a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms of adaptation to altitude in sheep. Show less
Dyslipidemia exacerbates pancreatic β-cell apoptosis, heightening the risk of type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Kansuinine A (KA), a diterpene from Euphorbia roots, exhibits antiapoptotic properties, suggestive Show more
Dyslipidemia exacerbates pancreatic β-cell apoptosis, heightening the risk of type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Kansuinine A (KA), a diterpene from Euphorbia roots, exhibits antiapoptotic properties, suggestive of its therapeutic potential against T2DM. In this study, we evaluated the protective effects of KA against apolipoprotein C3 (ApoC3)-rich low-density lipoprotein (LDL) (AC3RL)-induced β-cell apoptosis and its underlying mechanism of action. ApoE Show less
Impaired glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) is a hallmark of β cell dysfunction in diabetes. Epigenetic mechanisms govern cellular glucose sensing and GSIS by β cells, but they remain incompl Show more
Impaired glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) is a hallmark of β cell dysfunction in diabetes. Epigenetic mechanisms govern cellular glucose sensing and GSIS by β cells, but they remain incompletely defined. Here, we found that BAF60a functions as a chromatin regulator that sustains biphasic GSIS and preserves β cell function under metabolic stress conditions. BAF60a was downregulated in β cells from obese and diabetic mice, monkeys, and humans. β cell-specific inactivation of BAF60a in adult mice impaired GSIS, leading to hyperglycemia and glucose intolerance. Conversely, restoring BAF60a expression improved β cell function and systemic glucose homeostasis. Mechanistically, BAF60a physically interacted with Nkx6.1 to selectively modulate chromatin accessibility and transcriptional activity of target genes critical for GSIS coupling in islet β cells. A BAF60a V278M mutation associated with decreased β cell GSIS function was identified in human donors. Mice carrying this mutation, which disrupted the interaction between BAF60a and Nkx6.1, displayed β cell dysfunction and impaired glucose homeostasis. In addition, GLP-1R and GIPR expression was significantly reduced in BAF60a-deficient islets, attenuating the insulinotropic effect of GLP-1R agonists. Together, these findings support a role for BAF60a as a component of the epigenetic machinery that shapes the chromatin landscape in β cells critical for glucose sensing and insulin secretion. Show less
The Huainan pig (HN) is known for its impressive litter size and exquisite meat quality. However, it also exhibits certain drawbacks such as excessive fat deposition, a relatively low percentage of le Show more
The Huainan pig (HN) is known for its impressive litter size and exquisite meat quality. However, it also exhibits certain drawbacks such as excessive fat deposition, a relatively low percentage of lean meat percentage, and a slower growth rate. Crossbreeding with lean-type breeds, such as Large White, Landrace, and Berkshire can enhance offspring traits, and increase genetic diversity. In this study we employed RNA-seq technology to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) samples from HN pigs and their crosses with multiple breeds (with three replicates per group). In the SAT of Huainan × Berkshire pigs (BH), Huainan × Yorkshire pigs (YH), and Huainan × Landrace pigs (LH), numerous key functional genes were identified, including In conclusion, these findings offer valuable insights and provide a foundation for future research on the molecular mechanisms underlying fat deposition in pigs. Show less
Thyroid cancer, the most common endocrine malignancy, is characterized by a unique and complex tumor microenvironment (TME). To unravel the high tumor heterogeneity and molecular mechanisms driving ca Show more
Thyroid cancer, the most common endocrine malignancy, is characterized by a unique and complex tumor microenvironment (TME). To unravel the high tumor heterogeneity and molecular mechanisms driving cancer progression, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis, enabling a comprehensive exploration of cellular diversity and molecular dynamics at single-cell resolution. We employed Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Uniform Manifold Approximation and Projection (UMAP) for dimensionality reduction and subsequent identification of cellular clusters. Differential gene expression analysis across subclusters was conducted using the FindAllMarkers function, while the DoHeatmap function was utilized to visualize the distribution of differentially expressed genes. The AUCell algorithm was applied to evaluate pathway enrichment within specific cell subtypes. To decipher cellular communication networks, we integrated the CellChat and NicheNet algorithms, which revealed intricate intercellular signaling interactions. Finally, multiplex immunohistochemistry (mIHC) was performed to validate key cellular interactions identified in silico. By analyzing 405,077 single cells from 50 thyroid cancer samples (including papillary, anaplastic, and metastatic tumors) and 14 normal thyroid tissues, we identified four major cellular subpopulations through unbiased clustering based on gene expression patterns and representative cellular markers. The TME was found to encompass diverse immune, endothelial, and mesenchymal cell subtypes, including novel populations such as CD4 + HSPA1A + T cells. Functional pathway enrichment analysis highlighted the roles of abundant cell types in tumor progression. Cell-cell communication analysis uncovered potential immunotherapeutic targets and revealed critical crosstalk among hub niche cells, including APOE+ macrophages, EMT-like cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), and RBP7+ endothelial cells. These findings were further validated by multiplex immunohistochemistry, confirming the spatial organization and interactions of these cell populations within the TME. Our study provides a comprehensive single-cell transcriptomic atlas of thyroid cancer, offering profound insights into tumor heterogeneity, the functional roles of key niche cells, and potential biomarkers for anticancer therapy. These findings not only enhance our understanding of thyroid cancer biology but also pave the way for the development of novel therapeutic strategies targeting the TME. Show less
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic, immune-mediated intestinal disorder driven by dysregulated immune responses in genetically susceptible individuals. Despite recent advances in treatment, Show more
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic, immune-mediated intestinal disorder driven by dysregulated immune responses in genetically susceptible individuals. Despite recent advances in treatment, more than 30% of patients either fail to respond initially or lose response over time, underscoring the need for a deeper mechanistic understanding of immunogenetic pathways and the development of individualized therapeutic strategies. We first discuss how newly identified susceptibility genes (e.g., IL23R, NOD2, BDNF, SLC) and their polymorphisms influence immune cell function and epithelial barrier integrity. Single-cell technologies have further revealed novel cell subsets and interactions underlying disease heterogeneity. We then explore the clinical efficacy of classical and emerging targeted therapies, including cytokine-specific biologics, JAK inhibitors, and novel strategies aimed at restoring regulatory T-cell function or blocking integrin-mediated lymphocyte trafficking. Additionally, we highlight promising therapeutic approaches such as fecal microbiota transplantation, microbial metabolite-based interventions, and nanotherapeutics. We further discuss how genetic insights and immune biomarkers can facilitate treatment personalization and improve prognostic stratification. Ultimately, this review emphasizes the transition from broad immunosuppression to precision medicine and proposes integrated approaches-combining multiomics profiling, immune monitoring, and novel therapeutics-to achieve sustained remission and improve long-term outcomes in IBD patients. Show less
To investigate the impact of obesity on brain structure and cognition using large neuroimaging and genetic data. Associations between body mass index (BMI), gray matter volume (GMV), whiter matter hyp Show more
To investigate the impact of obesity on brain structure and cognition using large neuroimaging and genetic data. Associations between body mass index (BMI), gray matter volume (GMV), whiter matter hyper-intensities (WMH), and fluid intelligence score (FIS) were estimated in 30283 participants from the UK Biobank. Longitudinal data analysis was conducted. Genome-wide association studies were applied to explore the genetic loci associations among BMI, GMV, WMH, and FIS. Mendelian Randomization analyses were applied to further estimate the effects of obesity on changes in the brain and cognition. The observational analysis revealed that BMI was negatively associated with GMV (r = -0.15, p < 1 The phenotypic and genetic association between obesity and aging brain and cognitive decline suggested that weight control could be a promising strategy for slowing the aging brain. Show less
The benefits of plant essential oils (EO) on the health of animals have been frequently reported, but their alteration of lipid metabolism in obese pigs has yet to be explored. This study aimed to ass Show more
The benefits of plant essential oils (EO) on the health of animals have been frequently reported, but their alteration of lipid metabolism in obese pigs has yet to be explored. This study aimed to assess the impact of EO blends (oregano, cinnamon and lemon oils) on growth performance, meat physicochemical parameters, intestinal health and lipid metabolism in the small intestine of weaned Bamei (a kind of obese-type pig) piglets. One hundred and forty-four male 60-day-old weaned Bamei piglets were randomly assigned to three groups of six replicates each: CON (basal diet), T1 (basal diet + 250 mg/kg EO), and T2 (basal diet + 500 mg/kg EO) over 28 days. The results showed that T1 trended to improve the average daily gain and feed intake to body gain ratio (p < 0.1), reduced water loss (p < 0.05), and increased the redness of meat (p < 0.05) compared to the CON. In addition, a significant change in the proportion of C17:0 and C20:1 was observed in the meat of T1 (p < 0.05). Improved intestinal health was evidenced by the reduced crypt depth, improved villi-to-crypt length ratio, and better superoxide dismutase activity in T1 (p < 0.05). Further study on intestinal lipid metabolism showed that duodenal lipase activity and the mRNA expression levels of lipid transport-related genes in the jejunum (FABPs, APOA1, APOB and ACSL3) were significantly reduced, alongside diminished serum lipid metabolites (Total protein and triglyceride) in the groups fed with EO (p < 0.05). In short, EO supplementation especially at 250 mg/kg improved intestinal health and inhibited lipid metabolism, which had a positive effect on the overall performance of Bamei piglets. This new evidence contributes to understanding the early regulatory role of EO in obese pigs and their potential to alleviate adolescent obesity. Show less
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder and the leading cause of dementia, with current therapies offering only limited symptomatic relief and lacking disease-modifying ef Show more
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder and the leading cause of dementia, with current therapies offering only limited symptomatic relief and lacking disease-modifying efficacy. Addressing this critical therapeutic gap, natural multi-target compounds like mulberroside A (MsA)-a bioactive glycoside from Show less
Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium (S. Typhimurium) is a facultative intracellular bacterial pathogen that grows within a specialized membrane-bound compartment known as the Salmonella-containing Show more
Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium (S. Typhimurium) is a facultative intracellular bacterial pathogen that grows within a specialized membrane-bound compartment known as the Salmonella-containing vacuole (SCV). The molecular composition and regulatory mechanisms governing SCV dynamics remain incompletely understood. In this study, we employed proximity-dependent biotin identification (BioID) to analyze the SCV proteome during infection. For this, we targeted the UltraID biotin ligase to the SCV by fusing it to a type 3 secreted effector. We demonstrate that the bacteria express and translocate the effector-UltraID fusion protein directly into host cells for labeling of the cytosolic face of the SCV surface. Proteomic analysis of biotinylated proteins revealed previously undescribed proteins associated with the SCV, including regulators of vesicular trafficking, cellular metabolism and lipid transport. Among these, VPS13C, a lipid transporter and membrane contact site protein, was identified as a critical regulator of SCV morphology and fission. Functional studies revealed that VPS13C also promotes ER-SCV contact formation, controls SCV positioning in host cells, and facilitates cell-to-cell spread by the bacteria. Together, our findings highlight the utility of BioID as a tool to study host-pathogen interactions in the context of infection and characterize VPS13C as a novel modulator of the intracellular life cycle of S. Typhimurium. Show less
The color of rice leaves are important agronomic traits that directly influence the proportion of sunlight energy utilization and ultimately affect the yield and quality, so it is crucial to excavate Show more
The color of rice leaves are important agronomic traits that directly influence the proportion of sunlight energy utilization and ultimately affect the yield and quality, so it is crucial to excavate the mechanism of regulating rice leave color. To investigate the molecular mechanism that triggers the purple color in rice leaf, phenotypic characterization and genome-wide transcriptome analysis were conducted using the japonica rice cultivar nipponbare (Nip) and its two purple leaf mutants, A total of 2247, 5484, 4525, 2103, 4375 and7029DEGs (differentially expressed genes) were identified in nip-a vs These results not only revealed the molecular mechanism triggering leaf purple color in the rice mutants Show less
Qianzhu Jiang, Huiting Li · 2025 · Journal of bioenergetics and biomembranes · Springer · added 2026-04-24
Myocardial fibrosis (MF) is a key pathological process driving heart failure, characterized by excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition and impaired cardiac function. Although myocyte-specific Show more
Myocardial fibrosis (MF) is a key pathological process driving heart failure, characterized by excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition and impaired cardiac function. Although myocyte-specific enhancer factor 2 A (MEF2A) is implicated in cardiac fibroblast activation, its role in MF remains unclear. We manipulated MEF2A expression in cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) through knockdown and overexpression, and assessed fibrosis markers, migration, and RhoA signaling. Binding of MEF2A to the Snail1 promoter was predicted using JASPAR and validated by chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and luciferase reporter assays. Rescue experiments with Snail1 overexpression and RhoA inhibition were performed. An angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced MF mouse model was used to evaluate cardiac function by echocardiography and to assess collagen deposition through picrosirius red (PSR) staining. MEF2A was significantly upregulated in Ang II-induced fibrotic hearts and CFs. MEF2A knockdown reduced α-SMA and Col1a1 expression, inhibited CF migration, and suppressed activation of the Snail1/RhoA/α-SMA pathway. ChIP and luciferase assays confirmed the direct binding of MEF2A to the Snail1 promoter. Inhibition of RhoA signaling reversed MEF2A-induced myofibroblast activation and migration. Rescue experiments showed that Snail1 overexpression restored the fibrotic phenotype suppressed by MEF2A knockdown. In vivo, MEF2A knockdown improved left ventricular function, reduced collagen deposition (PSR staining), and lowered heart weight/tibia length ratios. MEF2A promotes myocardial fibrosis by directly activating Snail1 and engages the RhoA/α-SMA pathway. Targeting MEF2A offers a promising therapeutic strategy to attenuate MF and improve heart function. Show less
Mutations in four genes encoding the outer ring complex of nuclear pore complexes (NPCs), NUP85, NUP107, NUP133 and NUP160, cause monogenic steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS). Knockout of NUP Show more
Mutations in four genes encoding the outer ring complex of nuclear pore complexes (NPCs), NUP85, NUP107, NUP133 and NUP160, cause monogenic steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS). Knockout of NUP85, NUP107, or NUP133 in immortalized human podocytes activates CDC42, an important effector of SRNS pathogenesis. However, it is unknown whether or not loss of NUP160 dysregulates CDC42 in the podocytes. Here, we generated a podocyte-specific Nup160 knockout mouse model with double-fluorescent (mT/mG) Cre reporter genes using CRISPR/Cas9 and Cre/loxP technologies. We investigated nephrotic syndrome-associated phenotypes in the Nup160podo-/- mice, and performed single-cell transcriptomic and proteomic analysis of glomerular suspension cells and cultured primary podocytes, respectively. The Nup160podo-/- mice exhibited progressive proteinuria and fusion of podocyte foot processes. We found decreased Cdc42 protein and normal Cdc42 transcriptional level in the podocytes of the Nup160podo-/- mice using analysis of single-cell transcriptomes and proteomes. We subsequently observed that Cdc42 protein decreased in both kidney tissues and cultured primary podocytes of the Nup160podo-/- mice, although Cdc42 mRNA levels were elevated in the cultured primary podocytes of the Nup160podo-/- mice. We also found that Cdc42 activity was significantly reduced in the cultured primary podocytes of the Nup160podo-/- mice. In conclusion, loss of Nup160 dysregulated Cdc42 in the podocytes of the Nup160podo-/- mice with proteinuria and fusion of podocyte foot processes. Our findings suggest that the dysregulation of CDC42 may contribute to the pathogenesis of SRNS in patients with mutations in NUP160. Show less
Sparstolonin B (SSNB) and Curcumin (Cur), from a pair of compatible herbs, were previously identified as anti-inflammation and T helper 17 (Th17) modulation reagents. However, their compatible roles i Show more
Sparstolonin B (SSNB) and Curcumin (Cur), from a pair of compatible herbs, were previously identified as anti-inflammation and T helper 17 (Th17) modulation reagents. However, their compatible roles in atherosclerosis (AS) and underlying mechanisms remain uninvestigated. In vivo, the apoE The gene-disease interaction and hub gene network reveals Th17-associated genes in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. In vitro, SSNB and Cur reduced oxLDL-induced BMDC activation by downregulating CD36. SSNB showed stronger inhibition to inflammatory activation of DC, while Cur more intensively suppressed co-stimulatory molecules. For the Th17/Treg bias in co-culture of BMDC and CD4 Our findings reveal, for the first time, that SSNB and Cur alleviate AS by modulating Th17-stromal cell interactions, with the IL-17RA-TAK1-NF-κB pathway as a related mediator. Notably, SSNB and Cur exhibit distinct anti-atherogenic roles. SSNB primarily targets TLR4/CD36 to inhibit DC activation, Th17 differentiation, VSMC inflammation and mainly inhibited TAK1 phosphorylation, while Cur more significant inhibited macrophage inflammation, and more directly inhibited NF-κB P65 phosphorylation. This study will be valuable for developing novel and precise adjuvant therapies for AS. Show less