Systematic exploration of the synthesis of mixed-metal Dy-M nitride clusterfullerenes (NCFs, M = Gd, Er, Tm, Lu) is performed, and the impact of the second metal on the relative yield is evaluated. We Show more
Systematic exploration of the synthesis of mixed-metal Dy-M nitride clusterfullerenes (NCFs, M = Gd, Er, Tm, Lu) is performed, and the impact of the second metal on the relative yield is evaluated. We demonstrate that the ionic radius of the metal appears to be the main factor allowing explanation of the relative yields in Dy-M mixed-metal systems with M = Sc, Lu, Er, and Gd. At the same time, Dy-Tm NCFs show anomalously low yields, which is not consistent with the relatively small ionic radius of Tm Show less
We aimed at exploring the positive feedback loop in eutopic and ectopic endometrial glandular epithelial cells (EuECs and EECs) in endometriosis. Normal epithelial cells (NECs), EuECs and EECs were tr Show more
We aimed at exploring the positive feedback loop in eutopic and ectopic endometrial glandular epithelial cells (EuECs and EECs) in endometriosis. Normal epithelial cells (NECs), EuECs and EECs were treated with fibroblast growth factor (FGF)2, FGF2 neutralizing antibody, mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) inhibitors U0126 and PD98059. FGF2 protein level was detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The expressions of FGF2, FGF receptor 1 (FGFR1), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2/pERK1/2 and Sproutys (SPRYs) (Sprouty1, Sprouty2, Sprouty4) and dual specificity phosphatase 6 (DUSP6) were detected by Western blot. The mRNA levels of FGF2, FGFR1 (FGF receptor 1), SPRYs (Sprouty1, Sprouty2, Sprouty4) and DUSP6 mRNA were detected by RT-PCR. Among treatment groups, the content of FGF2 in EuECs and EECs was significantly higher than that in NECs (p < 0.05). The mRNA and protein levels of FGF2, FGFR1, SPRYs (Sprouty1, Sprouty2, Sprouty4) and DUSP6 in EuECs and EECs were increased after adding FGF2 (p < 0.05), but decreased after adding FGF2 neutralizing antibody, no significant change was found in NECs (p > 0.05). The inhibitory effect of PD9805 on NECs was not significantly different from that of U0126 (p > 0.05); however, the inhibitory effects of PD9805 on EuECs and EECs were significantly lower than those of U0126 (p< 0.05). The positive feedback loop existed in EuECs and EECs, but maybe not in NECs. The results may provide the guideline to treat endometriosis patients. Show less
Hey2 gene mutations in both humans and mice have been associated with multiple cardiac defects. However, the currently reported localization of Hey2 in the ventricular compact zone cannot explain the Show more
Hey2 gene mutations in both humans and mice have been associated with multiple cardiac defects. However, the currently reported localization of Hey2 in the ventricular compact zone cannot explain the wide variety of cardiac defects. Furthermore, it was reported that, in contrast to other organs, Notch doesn't regulate Hey2 in the heart. To determine the expression pattern and the regulation of Hey2, we used novel methods including RNAscope and a Hey2 Show less
Zinc finger protein 259 (ZNF259), also known as ZPR1, is a zinc finger-containing protein that can bind the intracellular tyrosine kinase domain of EGFR. At present, our knowledge on ZNF259 in cancers Show more
Zinc finger protein 259 (ZNF259), also known as ZPR1, is a zinc finger-containing protein that can bind the intracellular tyrosine kinase domain of EGFR. At present, our knowledge on ZNF259 in cancers is limited. Here, we aimed to explore the biological functions of ZNF259 in breast cancer and reveal their mechanisms. The expression of ZNF259 was measured in 133 cases of breast cancer by immunohistochemistry. The online database Kaplan-Meier (KM) Plotter Online Tool was used to analyze the relationship between ZNF259 expression and breast cancer patient survival prognosis. Plasmid transfection and small interfering RNA and inhibitor treatments were carried out to explore the functions of ZNF259 in breast cancer cell lines and its potential mechanism. Matrigel invasion and wound healing assays were performed to detect the invasion and migration ability of cancer cells. In addition, protein expressions in tissues and cells were determined by Western blotting. ZNF259 expression was much higher in breast cancer cells than in the adjacent normal breast duct glandular epithelial cells (75.94% vs 7.52%, ZNF259 could promote breast cancer cell invasion and migration by activating the ERK/GSK3β/Snail signaling pathway. Show less
Gastric cancer has become a serious disease in the past decade. It has the second highest mortality rate among the four most common cancer types, leading to ~700,000 mortalities annually. Previous stu Show more
Gastric cancer has become a serious disease in the past decade. It has the second highest mortality rate among the four most common cancer types, leading to ~700,000 mortalities annually. Previous studies have attempted to elucidate the underlying biological mechanisms of gastric cancer. The present study aimed to obtain useful biomarkers and to improve the understanding of gastric cancer mechanisms at the genetic level. The present study used bioinformatics analysis to identify 1,829 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) which were obtained from the GSE54129 dataset. Using protein‑protein interaction information from the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes database, disease modules were constructed for gastric cancer using Cytoscape software. In the Gene Ontology analysis of biology processes, upregulated genes were significantly enriched in 'extracellular matrix organization', 'cell adhesion' and 'inflammatory response', whereas downregulated DEGs were significantly enriched in 'xenobiotic metabolic process', 'oxidation‑reduction process' and 'steroid metabolic process'. During Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis, upregulated DEGs were significantly enriched in 'extracellular matrix‑receptor interaction', 'focal adhesion' and 'PI3K‑Akt signaling pathway', whereas the downregulated DEGs were significantly enriched in 'chemical carcinogenesis', 'metabolism of xenobiotics by cytochrome P450' and 'peroxisome'. The present study additionally identified 10 hub genes from the DEGs: Tumor protein p53 (TP53), C‑X‑C motif chemokine ligand 8 (CXCL8), tetraspanin 4 (TSPAN4), lysophosphatidic acid receptor 2 (LPAR2), adenylate cyclase 3 (ADCY3), phosphoinositide‑3‑kinase regulatory subunit 1 (PIK3R1), neuromedin U (NMU), C‑X‑C motif chemokine ligand (CXCL12), fos proto‑oncogene, AP‑1 transcription factor subunit (FOS) and sphingosine‑1‑phosphate receptor 1 (S1PR1), which have high degrees with other DEGs. The survival analysis revealed that the high expression of ADCY3, LPAR2, S1PR1, TP53 and TSPAN4 was associated with a lower survival rate, whereas high expression of CXCL8, FOS, NMU and PIK3R1 was associated with a higher survival rate. No significant association was identified between CXCL12 and survival rate. Additionally, TSPAN1 and TSPAN8 appeared in the top 100 DEGs. Finally, it was observed that 4 hub genes were highly expressed in gastric cancer tissue compared with para‑carcinoma tissue in the 12 patients; the increased TSPAN4 was significant (>5‑fold). Tetraspanin family genes may be novel biomarkers of gastric cancer. The findings of the present study may improve the understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the development of gastric cancer. Show less
During peripartum period, dairy cows are highly susceptible to energy metabolism disorders such as fatty liver and ketosis. Angiopoietin-like protein 4 (ANGPTL4) and fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21 Show more
During peripartum period, dairy cows are highly susceptible to energy metabolism disorders such as fatty liver and ketosis. Angiopoietin-like protein 4 (ANGPTL4) and fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), known as hepatokines, play important roles in lipid metabolism. The purposes of our study were to evaluate variations of serum ANGPTL4 and FGF21 concentrations in periparturient dairy cows and changes in these serum analyte concentrations of energy-related metabolic disorders in early lactation dairy cows. This study was divided into two experiments. Experiment I: Blood parameters were measured in healthy periparturient Holstein cows from 4 wk antepartum to 4 wk postpartum (n = 219). In this experiment, weekly blood samples were obtained from 4 wk before the expected calving date through 4 wk after calving. Experiment II: Blood parameters were measured in healthy cows (n = 30) and cows with clinical ketosis (n = 29) and fatty liver (n = 25) within the first 4 wk of lactation. In the present study, all blood samples were collected from the coccygeal vein in the early morning before feeding. Serum ANGPTL4 and FGF21 concentrations peaked at parturition, and declined rapidly over the following 2 wk Serum ANGPTL4 and FGF21 concentrations were positively correlated with serum non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) concentration (r = 0.856, P = 003; r = 0.848, P = 0.004, respectively). Cows with clinical ketosis and fatty liver had significantly higher serum ANGPTL4 and FGF21 concentrations than healthy cows (P < 0.01). Serum ANGPTL4 and FGF21 concentrations were elevated during peripartum period, suggesting that energy balance changes that were associated with parturition contributed significantly to these effects. Although FGF21 and ANGPTL4 could play important roles in the adaptation of energy metabolism, they may be involved in the pathological processes of energy metabolism disorders of dairy cows in the peripartum period. Show less
The phytohormone gibberellin (GA) plays essential roles in plant growth and development. Here, we report that OsINO80, a conserved ATP-dependent chromatin-remodeling factor in rice (Oryza sativa), fun Show more
The phytohormone gibberellin (GA) plays essential roles in plant growth and development. Here, we report that OsINO80, a conserved ATP-dependent chromatin-remodeling factor in rice (Oryza sativa), functions in both GA biosynthesis and diverse biological processes. OsINO80-knockdown mutants, derived from either T-DNA insertion or RNA interference, display typical GA-deficient phenotypes, including dwarfism, reduced cell length, late flowering, retarded seed germination and impaired reproductive development. Consistently, transcriptome analyses reveal that OsINO80 knockdown results in downregulation by more than two-fold of over 1,000 genes, including the GA biosynthesis genes CPS1 and GA3ox2, and the dwarf phenotype of OsINO80-knockdown mutants can be rescued by the application of exogenous GA3. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) experiments show that OsINO80 directly binds to the chromatin of CPS1 and GA3ox2 loci. Biochemical assays establish that OsINO80 specially interacts with histone variant H2A.Z and the H2A.Z enrichments at CPS1 and GA3ox2 are decreased in OsINO80-knockdown mutants. Thus, our study identified a rice chromatin-remodeling factor, OsINO80, and demonstrated that OsINO80 is involved in regulation of the GA biosynthesis pathway and plays critical functions for many aspects of rice plant growth and development. Show less
Obesity is causally associated with atherosclerosis, and adipose tissue (AT)-derived exosomes may be implicated in the metabolic complications of obesity. However, the precise role of AT-exosomes in a Show more
Obesity is causally associated with atherosclerosis, and adipose tissue (AT)-derived exosomes may be implicated in the metabolic complications of obesity. However, the precise role of AT-exosomes in atherogenesis remains unclear. We herein aimed to assess the effect of AT-exosomes on macrophage foam cell formation and polarization and subsequent atherosclerosis development. Four types of exosomes isolated from the supernatants of ex vivo subcutaneous AT and visceral AT (VAT) explants that were derived from wild-type mice and high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese mice were effectively taken up by RAW264.7 macrophages. Both treatment with wild-type VAT exosomes and HFD-VAT exosomes, but not subcutaneous AT exosomes, markedly facilitated macrophage foam cell generation through the downregulation of ATP-binding cassette transporter (ABCA1 and ABCG1)-mediated cholesterol efflux. Decreased expression of liver X receptor-α was also observed. Among the 4 types of exosomes, only HFD-VAT exosomes significantly induced M1 phenotype transition and proinflammatory cytokine (tumor necrosis factor α and interleukin 6) secretion in RAW264.7 macrophages, which was accompanied by increased phosphorylation of NF-κB-p65 but not the cellular expression of NF-κB-p65 or IκB-α. Furthermore, systematic intravenous injection of HFD-VAT exosomes profoundly exacerbated atherosclerosis in hyperlipidemic apolipoprotein E-deficient mice, as indicated by the M1 marker (CD16/32 and inducible nitric oxide synthase)-positive areas and the Oil Red O/Sudan IV-stained area, without affecting the plasma lipid profile and body weight. This study demonstrated a proatherosclerotic role for HFD-VAT exosomes, which is exerted by regulating macrophage foam cell formation and polarization, indicating a novel link between AT and atherosclerosis in the context of obesity. Show less
Single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) and RNA regions that include at least four closely spaced runs of three or more consecutive guanosines strongly tend to fold into stable G-quadruplexes (G4s). G4s play key Show more
Single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) and RNA regions that include at least four closely spaced runs of three or more consecutive guanosines strongly tend to fold into stable G-quadruplexes (G4s). G4s play key roles as DNA regulatory sites and as kinetic traps that can inhibit biological processes, but how G4s are regulated in cells remains largely unknown. Here, we developed a kinetic framework for G4 disruption by DEAH-box helicase 36 (DHX36), the dominant G4 resolvase in human cells. Using tetramolecular DNA and RNA G4s with four to six G-quartets, we found that DHX36-mediated disruption is highly efficient, with rates that depend on G4 length under saturating conditions ( Show less
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a devastating neurodegenerative disease with limited treatment options and no cure. Beta-amyloid (Aβ) is a hallmark of AD that has potent neurotoxicity in neural stem cells Show more
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a devastating neurodegenerative disease with limited treatment options and no cure. Beta-amyloid (Aβ) is a hallmark of AD that has potent neurotoxicity in neural stem cells (NSCs). Dual specificity phosphatase 6 (DUSP6) is a member of the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), which is involved in regulating various physiological and pathological processes. Whether DUSP6 has a protective effect on Aβ-induced NSC injury remains to be explored. C17.2 neural stem cells were transfected with DUSP6-overexpressed plasmid. NSCs with or without DUSP6 overexpression were administrated with Aβ25⁻35 at various concentrations (i.e., 0, 2.5, 5 μM). DUSP6 expression after Aβ treatment was detected by Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blot and cell vitality was examined by the CCK8 assay. The oxidative stress (intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA)), endoplasmic reticulum stress (ER calcium level) and mitochondrial dysfunction (cytochrome c homeostasis) were tested. The expression of Show less
Hua Su, Wei Liu · 2018 · Autophagy · Taylor & Francis · added 2026-04-24
PIK3C3/VPS34 (phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase catalytic subunit type 3) converts phosphatidylinositol (PtdIns) to phosphatidylinositol-3-phosphate (PtdIns3P), sustaining macroautophagy/autophagy and end Show more
PIK3C3/VPS34 (phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase catalytic subunit type 3) converts phosphatidylinositol (PtdIns) to phosphatidylinositol-3-phosphate (PtdIns3P), sustaining macroautophagy/autophagy and endosomal transport. So far, facilitating the assembly of the PIK3C3/VPS34-BECN1-PIK3R4/VPS15/p150 core complex at distinct membranes is the only known way to activate PIK3C3/VPS34 in cells. We have recently revealed a novel mechanism that regulates PIK3C3/VPS34 activation; cellular PIK3C3/VPS34 is repressed under nutrient-rich conditions by EP300/p300-mediated acetylation. Following nutrient-deprivation that drops EP300 activity, PIK3C3/VPS34 is liberated by deacetylation. Intriguingly, while deacetylation of the N-terminal K29 residue accounts for core complex formation, deacetylation at the C-terminal K771 site determines the binding of PIK3C3/VPS34 to its substrate PtdIns. In vitro and in cell evidence shows that EP300-dependent acetylation and deacetylation is a switch for turning off/on PIK3C3/VPS34 in which deacetylation of K771 is required for its full activation. This PIK3C3/VPS34 activation mechanism is utilized not only by starvation-induced autophagy but also by autophagy without the involvement of AMPK, MTORC1 or ULK1. These findings suggest an alternative circuit in cells for PIK3C3/VPS34 activation, which is involved in membrane transformations in response to metabolic and nonmetabolic cues. Show less
The aim of this work was to clarify the molecular mechanism underlying the fatty degeneration of livers infected with Muscovy duck reovirus (MDRV), which produces obvious white necrotic foci in the li Show more
The aim of this work was to clarify the molecular mechanism underlying the fatty degeneration of livers infected with Muscovy duck reovirus (MDRV), which produces obvious white necrotic foci in the liver. Transcriptome data for MDRV-infected Muscovy duck livers and control livers were sequenced, assembled, and annotated with Illumina ABC: ATP binding cassette transport; ACADVL: acyl-CoA dehydrogenase, very long chain; ACAT: mitochondrial-like acetyl-CoA acetyltransferase A; ACAT2: acetyl-CoA acyltransferase 2; ACNAT2: acyl-coenzyme A amino acid N-acyltransferase 2-like; ACOT1: acyl-CoA thioesterase 1; ACOT7: acyl-CoA thioesterase 7; ACOX1: acyl-CoA oxidase 1, palmitoyl; ACSBG2: acyl-CoA synthetase bubblegum family member 2; ACSL1: acyl-CoA synthetase long-chain family member 1; ADH1: alcohol dehydrogenase 1; APOA4: apolipoprotein A-IV; ARV: avian reovirus; cDNA: complementary deoxyribonucleic acid; COG: Clusters of Orthologous Groups; DEG: differentially expressed gene; DGAT: diacylgycerol acyltransferase; DNA: deoxyribonucleic acid; ECI2: enoyl-CoA delta isomerase 2; EHHADH: enoyl-CoA hydratase/3-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase; FDR: false discovery rate; GCDH: Pseudopodoces humilis glutaryl-CoA dehydrogenase; GO: Gene Ontology; HADHA: hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase/3-ketoacyl-CoA thiolase/enoyl-CoA hydratase (trifunctional protein), alpha subunit; I-FABP: intestinal fatty acid binding protein; KEGG: Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes; L-FABP: liver fatty acid binding protein; MDRV: Muscovy duck reovirus; MOI: multiplicity of infection; NPC1L1: Niemann-Pick C1-like 1; qPCR: real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction; RNA: ribonucleic acid; RNase: ribonuclease; RNA-seq: RNA sequencing technology; RPKM: reads per kilobase per million mapped reads; SR-B1: scavenger receptor class b type 1. Show less
Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified >250 loci for body mass index (BMI), implicating pathways related to neuronal biology. Most GWAS loci represent clusters of common, noncoding var Show more
Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified >250 loci for body mass index (BMI), implicating pathways related to neuronal biology. Most GWAS loci represent clusters of common, noncoding variants from which pinpointing causal genes remains challenging. Here we combined data from 718,734 individuals to discover rare and low-frequency (minor allele frequency (MAF) < 5%) coding variants associated with BMI. We identified 14 coding variants in 13 genes, of which 8 variants were in genes (ZBTB7B, ACHE, RAPGEF3, RAB21, ZFHX3, ENTPD6, ZFR2 and ZNF169) newly implicated in human obesity, 2 variants were in genes (MC4R and KSR2) previously observed to be mutated in extreme obesity and 2 variants were in GIPR. The effect sizes of rare variants are ~10 times larger than those of common variants, with the largest effect observed in carriers of an MC4R mutation introducing a stop codon (p.Tyr35Ter, MAF = 0.01%), who weighed ~7 kg more than non-carriers. Pathway analyses based on the variants associated with BMI confirm enrichment of neuronal genes and provide new evidence for adipocyte and energy expenditure biology, widening the potential of genetically supported therapeutic targets in obesity. Show less
This study investigated the effects of dietary supplementation of fish oil on the signals of lipid metabolism involved in hepatic cholesterol and triglyceride influx and excretion in high-fat diet (HF Show more
This study investigated the effects of dietary supplementation of fish oil on the signals of lipid metabolism involved in hepatic cholesterol and triglyceride influx and excretion in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed rats. Fish oil (FO) repressed body (HFD, 533 ± 18.2 g; HFD+FO, 488 ± 28.0 g, p < 0.05) and liver weights (HFD, 5.7 ± 0.6 g/100 g of body weight; HFD+FO, 4.8 ± 0.4 g/100 g of body weight, p < 0.05) in HFD-fed rats. Fish oil could also improve HFD-induced imbalance of lipid metabolism in blood, liver, and adipose tissues including the significant decreases in plasma and liver total cholesterol (TC) (plasma-HFD, 113 ± 33.6 mg/dL; HFD+FO, 50.0 ± 5.95 mg/dL, p < 0.05; liver-HFD, 102 ± 13.0 mg/g liver; [corrected] HFD+FO, 86.6 ± 7.81 mg/g liver, [corrected] p < 0.05), blood, liver, and adipose triglyceride (TG) (blood-HFD, 52.5 ± 20.4 mg/dL; HFD+FO, 29.8 ± 4.30 mg/dL, p < 0.05; liver-HFD, 56.2 ± 10.0 mg/g liver; [corrected] HFD+FO, 30.3 ± 5.28 mg/g liver, [corrected] p < 0.05; adipose-HFD, 614 ± 73.2 mg/g liver, [corrected] HFD+FO, 409 ± 334 mg/g of adipose tissue, [corrected] p < 0.05), and low density (HFD, 79.8 ± 40.9 mg/dL; HFD+FO, 16.6 ± 5.47 mg/dL, p < 0.05) and very-low-density (HFD, 49.7 ± 33.3 mg/dL; HFD+FO, 10.4 ± 3.45 mg/dL, p < 0.05) lipoprotein and the significant increases in fecal TC (HFD, 12.2 ± 0.67 mg/g feces; [corrected] HFD+FO, 16.3 ± 2.04 mg/g feces, [corrected] < 0.05) and TG (HFD, 2.09 ± 0.10 mg/g feces; [corrected] HFD+FO, 2.38 ± 0.22 mg/g feces, [corrected] p < 0.05) and lipoprotein lipase activity of adipose tissues (HFD, 16.6 ± 3.64 μM p-nitrophenol; HFD+FO, 24.5 ± 4.19 μM p-nitrophenol, p < 0.05). Moreover, fish oil significantly activated the protein expressions of hepatic lipid metabolism regulators (AMPKα and PPARα) and significantly regulated the lipid-transport-related signaling molecules (ApoE, MTTP, ApoB, Angptl4, ApoCIII, ACOX1, and SREBPF1) in blood or liver of HFD-fed rats. These results suggest that fish oil supplementation improves HFD-induced imbalance of lipid homeostasis in blood, liver, and adipose tissues in rats. Show less
The genetic component of dyslipidemia has been studied in adults but little in older population. It is remains unknown regarding influence and interaction of APOA5 gene single nucleotide polymorphism Show more
The genetic component of dyslipidemia has been studied in adults but little in older population. It is remains unknown regarding influence and interaction of APOA5 gene single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and habitual aerobic exercise (HAE) on changes of blood lipids and lipoprotein phenotypes in older Chinese adults. Four-hundred-twenty-three old Chinese individuals with HAE were divided into hyperlipidemia and normal groups. We genotyped polymorphic loci using matrix assisted laser desorption ionization time of flight mass spectrometry detection technology (MALDI-TOF). HAE level was assessed by International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) scale. For three genotypes of rs662799 site, the AG + GG gene carriers presented higher risk of hyperlipidemia compared to the AA carriers, with the ratio of 1.676 (P = .018, 95% CI: 1.092-2.571) for the AG and 1.812 (P = .002, 95% CI: 1.247-2.632) for the GG, respectively. The rs662799 G allele was significantly associated with lower HDL-C but higher TG levels. In relation to different HAE levels, less interaction was observed between the AA carriers and different HAE levels on corresponding lipids changes. The AG + GG carriers with higher HAE levels had significantly lower TG responses compared to those with lower HAE levels (1.45 ± 0.74 mmol/L vs. 1.86 ± 1.15 mmol/L). Excess risk for low HDL-C and hyperlipidemia was associated with rs662799 genotype alleles of APOA5 SNPs in older Chinese adults. Interaction of gene-HAE and HAE levels may induce different responses of blood lipids and lipoprotein phenotypes. HAE levels have less influence on TG changes in the AA carriers; however, high HAE levels appeared to greatly impact TG responses in the AG + GG carriers. Show less
This study was design to investigate preventive function of Tongxinluo (TXL) capsule on micro vascular function and endothelial survival in rats model of intestine ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. W Show more
This study was design to investigate preventive function of Tongxinluo (TXL) capsule on micro vascular function and endothelial survival in rats model of intestine ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. We randomly divided fifty male Sprague-Dawley rats into Sham group, I/R group, TXL0.4+I/R group, TXL0.8+I/R group, TXL1.6+I/R group (10 rats each). Rat intestine I/R injury was carried out using a model of acute superior mesenteric artery occlusion with 30 min ischemia followed by 60 min reperfusion. The distribution of endothelial apoptosis in intestine was determined by CD31+TUNEL immunofluorescent double staining analysis. VE-Cadherin, ANGPTL4, HMGB1 and NF-κB were determined by immunohistochemical analysis. I/R induced massively endothelial cell apoptosis, accompanied with reduced expression of adherens junction protein VE-Cadherin and up regulation of inflammatory mediator HMGB1 and NF-κB. TXL pretreatment groups (TXL0.4+I/R, TXL0.8+I/R and TXL1.6+I/R group) significantly attenuated endothelial cell apoptosis with a dose-dependent effect. TXL pretreatment could maintain the expression of VE-Cadherin and promote the expression of ANGPTL4 which help to maintain endothelial integrity. TXL pretreatment also exert great influence in inhibiting HMGB1 expression and NF-κB expression induced by I/R. It could be concluded from this study that micro vascular dysfunction and endothelial damage play a causal role in rat intestine I/R injury. TXL pretreatment could significantly prevent the I/R induced pathology of endothelial apoptosis, micro vascular integrity disruption and inflammatory reaction. Show less
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common primary tumor of the liver, has a poor prognosis and shows rapid progression. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in carcinogenesis and tumor progre Show more
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common primary tumor of the liver, has a poor prognosis and shows rapid progression. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in carcinogenesis and tumor progression. Regulators of G-protein signaling (RGS) are critical for defining G-protein-dependent signal fidelity. RGS17 plays an important role in the regulation of cancer cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Here, we showed that miR-199 was downregulated in a hepatocarcinoma cell line. Overexpression of miR-199 significantly suppressed HCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro. RGS17 overexpression promoted HCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, and reversed the miR-199 mediated inhibition of proliferation, migration, and invasion. Dual-fluorescence reporter experiments confirmed that miR-199 downregulated RGS17 by direct interaction with the 3'-UTR of RGS17 mRNA. In vivo studies showed that miR-199 overexpression significantly inhibited the growth of tumors. Taken together, the results suggested that miR-199 inhibited tumor growth and metastasis by targeting RGS17. Show less
Anacetrapib is a cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) inhibitor being developed for the treatment of mixed dyslipidemia. The aim of the study was to evaluate the pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic, Show more
Anacetrapib is a cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) inhibitor being developed for the treatment of mixed dyslipidemia. The aim of the study was to evaluate the pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic, and safety characteristics of anacetrapib following single doses in healthy, young Japanese men. In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, 3-panel, single-rising-dose study, 6 healthy young Japanese male or white male subjects (aged 19 to 44 years) received single oral doses of 5 to 500 mg anacetrapib, and 2 received placebo. Plasma and urine drug concentrations were measured 0-168 hours postdose, and plasma CETP inhibition was measured 0-24 hours postdose. Urinary anacetrapib levels were all below quantitation limits. Plasma concentrations of anacetrapib increased approximately less than dose-proportionally. Consumption of a traditional Japanese breakfast prior to dosing increased the plasma pharmacokinetics of anacetrapib in Japanese subjects compared with fasted conditions, to a similar extent as in white subjects. CETP activity measured over 0-24 hours postdose resulted in significant inhibition. Anacetrapib was generally well tolerated, and there were no serious adverse experiences. No clinically meaningful differences in PK and CETP inhibition parameters were found between Japanese and white subjects. Show less
FADS1 gene encodes delta 5 desaturase, a rate-limiting enzyme in the metabolism of n-3 and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Minor alleles of FADS1 locus polymorphisms are associated with reduc Show more
FADS1 gene encodes delta 5 desaturase, a rate-limiting enzyme in the metabolism of n-3 and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Minor alleles of FADS1 locus polymorphisms are associated with reduced FADS1 expression and intra-hepatic fat accumulation. However, the relationship between FADS1 expression and pediatric nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) risk remains to be explored. We analyzed FADS1 transcription levels and their association with intra-hepatic fat and histology in children, and we performed pathway enrichment analysis on transcriptomic profiles associated with FADS1 polymorphisms. We also evaluated the weight of FADS1 alleles on the response to combined docosahexaenoic acid, choline, and vitamin E (DHA-CHO-VE) treatment. FADS1 mRNA level was significantly and inversely associated with intra-hepatic fat (p = 0.004), degree of steatosis (p = 0.03), fibrosis (p = 0.05), and NASH (p = 0.008) among pediatric livers. Transcriptomics demonstrated a significant enrichment of a number of pathways strongly related to NAFLD (e.g., liver damage, fibrosis, and hepatic stellate cell activation). Compared to children who are common allele homozygotes, children with FADS1 minor alleles had a greater reduction in steatosis, fibrosis, and NAFLD activity score after DHA-CHO-VE. This study suggests that decreased FADS1 expression may be associated with NAFLD in children but an increased response to DHA-CHO-VE. Show less
Recent genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified multiple new loci which appear to alter coronary artery disease (CAD) risk via arterial wall-specific mechanisms. One of the annotated gen Show more
Recent genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified multiple new loci which appear to alter coronary artery disease (CAD) risk via arterial wall-specific mechanisms. One of the annotated genes encodes LMOD1 (Leiomodin 1), a member of the actin filament nucleator family that is highly enriched in smooth muscle-containing tissues such as the artery wall. However, it is still unknown whether LMOD1 is the causal gene at this locus and also how the associated variants alter LMOD1 expression/function and CAD risk. Using epigenomic profiling we recently identified a non-coding regulatory variant, rs34091558, which is in tight linkage disequilibrium (LD) with the lead CAD GWAS variant, rs2820315. Herein we demonstrate through expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) and statistical fine-mapping in GTEx, STARNET, and human coronary artery smooth muscle cell (HCASMC) datasets, rs34091558 is the top regulatory variant for LMOD1 in vascular tissues. Position weight matrix (PWM) analyses identify the protective allele rs34091558-TA to form a conserved Forkhead box O3 (FOXO3) binding motif, which is disrupted by the risk allele rs34091558-A. FOXO3 chromatin immunoprecipitation and reporter assays show reduced FOXO3 binding and LMOD1 transcriptional activity by the risk allele, consistent with effects of FOXO3 downregulation on LMOD1. LMOD1 knockdown results in increased proliferation and migration and decreased cell contraction in HCASMC, and immunostaining in atherosclerotic lesions in the SMC lineage tracing reporter mouse support a key role for LMOD1 in maintaining the differentiated SMC phenotype. These results provide compelling functional evidence that genetic variation is associated with dysregulated LMOD1 expression/function in SMCs, together contributing to the heritable risk for CAD. Show less
Haiyan Zhang, Yujie Lang, Kaihui Zhang+3 more · 2018 · Zhonghua yi xue yi chuan xue za zhi = Zhonghua yixue yichuanxue zazhi = Chinese journal of medical genetics · added 2026-04-24
To explore the genetic basis for a neonate featuring hyperammonemia. The patient was examined and tested by tandem mass spectrometry and next generation sequencing (NGS). Suspected mutations were conf Show more
To explore the genetic basis for a neonate featuring hyperammonemia. The patient was examined and tested by tandem mass spectrometry and next generation sequencing (NGS). Suspected mutations were confirmed by Sanger sequencing of the proband and her parents. Potential impact of the mutation was predicted with SIFT, PolyPhen-2 and MutationTaste software. Plasma ammonia and alanine were significantly increased in the proband, while serum citrulline was decreased. The neonate was found to harbor compound heterozygous mutations of the CPS1 gene [c.1631C>T(p.T544M) and c.1981G>T(p.G661C)], which were respectively inherited from her father and mother. The carbamoyl phosphate synthetase I deficiency of the proband can probably be attributed to the mutations of the CPS1 gene. Above finding has expanded the spectrum of CPS1 mutations in association with carbamoyl phosphate synthetase I deficiency. Show less
no PDFDOI: 10.3760/cma.j.issn.1003-9406.2018.06.017
Helicase DHX36 plays essential roles in cell development and differentiation at least partially by resolving G-quadruplex (G4) structures. Here we report crystal structures of the Drosophila homolog o Show more
Helicase DHX36 plays essential roles in cell development and differentiation at least partially by resolving G-quadruplex (G4) structures. Here we report crystal structures of the Drosophila homolog of DHX36 (DmDHX36) in complex with RNA and a series of DNAs. By combining structural, small-angle X-ray scattering, molecular dynamics simulation, and single-molecule fluorescence studies, we revealed that positively charged amino acids in RecA2 and OB-like domains constitute an elaborate structural pocket at the nucleic acid entrance, in which negatively charged G4 DNA is tightly bound and partially destabilized. The G4 DNA is then completely unfolded through the 3'-5' translocation activity of the helicase. Furthermore, crystal structures and DNA binding assays show that G-rich DNA is preferentially recognized and in the presence of ATP, specifically bound by DmDHX36, which may cooperatively enhance the G-rich DNA translocation and G4 unfolding. On the basis of these results, a conceptual G4 DNA-resolving mechanism is proposed. Show less
Lecithin cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) plays a pivotal role in HDL metabolism but its influence on atherosclerosis remains controversial for decades both in animal and clinical studies. Because l Show more
Lecithin cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) plays a pivotal role in HDL metabolism but its influence on atherosclerosis remains controversial for decades both in animal and clinical studies. Because lack of cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) is a major difference between murine and humans in lipoprotein metabolism, we aimed to create a novel Syrian Golden hamster model deficient in LCAT activity, which expresses endogenous CETP, to explore its metabolic features and particularly the influence of LCAT on the development of atherosclerosis. CRISPR/CAS9 gene editing system was employed to generate mutant LCAT hamsters. The characteristics of lipid metabolism and the development of atherosclerosis in the mutant hamsters were investigated using various conventional methods in comparison with wild type control animals. Hamsters lacking LCAT activity exhibited pro-atherogenic dyslipidemia as diminished high density lipoprotein (HDL) and ApoAI, hypertriglyceridemia, Chylomicron/VLDL accumulation and significantly increased ApoB100/48. Mechanistic study for hypertriglyceridemia revealed impaired LPL-mediated lipolysis and increased very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) secretion, with upregulation of hepatic genes involved in lipid synthesis and transport. The pro-atherogenic dyslipidemia in mutant hamsters was exacerbated after high fat diet feeding, ultimately leading to near a 3- and 5-fold increase in atherosclerotic lesions by aortic en face and sinus lesion quantitation, respectively. Our findings demonstrate that LCAT deficiency in hamsters develops pro-atherogenic dyslipidemia and promotes atherosclerotic lesion formation. Show less
Chun-Han Chen, Chun A Changou, Tsung-Han Hsieh+9 more · 2018 · Clinical cancer research : an official journal of the American Association for Cancer Research · added 2026-04-24
Human amniotic epithelial stem cells (HuAECs) exhibit pluripotent characteristics, which are similar to those of embryonic stem cells, and can differentiate into various adult tissues and cells throug Show more
Human amniotic epithelial stem cells (HuAECs) exhibit pluripotent characteristics, which are similar to those of embryonic stem cells, and can differentiate into various adult tissues and cells through directed induction. However, in culture, HuAECs tend to lose their pluripotency, and their directed differentiation capability declines with increasing passage number. The stem cell pluripotency factor octamer‑binding protein 4 (Oct4) is an important transcription factor that promotes stem cell self‑proliferation and maintains their pluripotency. Previous studies have demonstrated that WW domain containing E3 ubiquitin protein ligase 2 (WWP2) negatively regulates Oct4 expression and stem cell pluripotency. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the regulation of WWP2 by microRNAs (miRs), and to evaluate the expression of the downstream factor Oct4 and the maintenance of HuAEC pluripotency. Bioinformatics analysis identified a complementary binding site for miR‑32 in the 3'untranslated region of the WWP2 gene, thus suggesting that it may be a target gene of miR‑32. Post‑infection of HuAECs with a vector overexpressing miR‑32, the endogenous expression of WWP2 was significantly decreased, whereas Oct4 expression was significantly increased. Furthermore, miR‑32‑infected cells differentiated into β islet‑like cells by directed induction. The results indicated that after induction, HuAECs overexpressing miR‑32 also overexpressed the biomarkers of β islet‑like cells. In addition, the ability to secrete insulin was markedly enhanced in response to glucose stimulation, in cells overexpressing miR‑32. In conclusion, the present study suggested that miR‑32 may effectively inhibit WWP2 expression in HuAECs and promote Oct4 overexpression to maintain their pluripotency. Show less
The Million Veteran Program (MVP) was established in 2011 as a national research initiative to determine how genetic variation influences the health of US military veterans. Here we genotyped 312,571 Show more
The Million Veteran Program (MVP) was established in 2011 as a national research initiative to determine how genetic variation influences the health of US military veterans. Here we genotyped 312,571 MVP participants using a custom biobank array and linked the genetic data to laboratory and clinical phenotypes extracted from electronic health records covering a median of 10.0 years of follow-up. Among 297,626 veterans with at least one blood lipid measurement, including 57,332 black and 24,743 Hispanic participants, we tested up to around 32 million variants for association with lipid levels and identified 118 novel genome-wide significant loci after meta-analysis with data from the Global Lipids Genetics Consortium (total n > 600,000). Through a focus on mutations predicted to result in a loss of gene function and a phenome-wide association study, we propose novel indications for pharmaceutical inhibitors targeting PCSK9 (abdominal aortic aneurysm), ANGPTL4 (type 2 diabetes) and PDE3B (triglycerides and coronary disease). Show less
Recent GWAS-associated studies reported that single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in ABCB1, TGFβ1, XRCC1 genes were associated with hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection, and variants of APOA4 and APOE Show more
Recent GWAS-associated studies reported that single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in ABCB1, TGFβ1, XRCC1 genes were associated with hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection, and variants of APOA4 and APOE genes were associated with and hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection in US population. However, the associations of these loci with HAV or HEV infection in Chinese Han population remain unclear. A total of 3082 Chinese Han persons were included in this study. Anti-HAV IgG and anti-HEV IgG were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Genotypes in ABCB1, TGFβ1, XRCC1, APOA4 and APOE SNPs were determined by TaqMan MGB technology. In Chinese Han population, rs1045642 C to T variation in ABCB1 was significantly associated with the decreased risk of HAV infection (P < 0.05). However, the effect direction was different with the previous US study. Rs1001581 A to G variation in XRCC1, which was not identified in US population, was significantly associated with the protection against HAV infection in our samples (P < 0.05). In addition, our results suggested that rs7412 C to T variation in APOE was significantly associated with lower risk of HEV infection in males (adjusted OR < 1.0, P < 0.05) but not in females. ABCB1 and XRCC1 genes variants are significantly associated with the protection against HAV infection. Additionally, Chinese Han males with rs7412 C to T variation in APOE gene are less prone to be infected by HEV. Show less
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a highly prevalent mental disorder affecting millions of people worldwide. However, a clear causative etiology of MDD remains unknown. In this study, we aimed to ide Show more
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a highly prevalent mental disorder affecting millions of people worldwide. However, a clear causative etiology of MDD remains unknown. In this study, we aimed to identify critical protein alterations in plasma from patients with MDD and integrate our proteomics and previous metabolomics data to reveal significantly perturbed pathways in MDD. An isobaric tag for relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ)-based quantitative proteomics approach was conducted to compare plasma protein expression between patients with depression and healthy controls (CON). For integrative analysis, Ingenuity Pathway Analysis software was used to analyze proteomics and metabolomics data and identify potential relationships among the differential proteins and metabolites. A total of 74 proteins were significantly changed in patients with depression compared with those in healthy CON. Bioinformatics analysis of differential proteins revealed significant alterations in lipid transport and metabolic function, including apolipoproteins (APOE, APOC4 and APOA5), and the serine protease inhibitor. According to canonical pathway analysis, the top five statistically significant pathways were related to lipid transport, inflammation and immunity. Causal network analysis by integrating differential proteins and metabolites suggested that the disturbance of phospholipid metabolism might promote the inflammation in the central nervous system. Show less
Patricio Atanes, Inmaculada Ruz-Maldonado, Ross Hawkes+3 more · 2018 · Cellular physiology and biochemistry : international journal of experimental cellular physiology, biochemistry, and pharmacology · added 2026-04-24
CRISPR-Cas9, a RNA-guided targeted genome editing tool, has revolutionized genetic engineering by offering the ability to precisely modify DNA. GPRC5B is an orphan receptor belonging to the group C fa Show more
CRISPR-Cas9, a RNA-guided targeted genome editing tool, has revolutionized genetic engineering by offering the ability to precisely modify DNA. GPRC5B is an orphan receptor belonging to the group C family of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). In this study, we analysed the functional roles of the Gprc5b receptor in MIN6 β-cells using CRISPR-Cas9 and transient over-expression of Gprc5b. The optimal transfection reagent for use in MIN6 β-cells was determined by analysing efficiency of GFP plasmid delivery by cell sorting. A MIN6 β-cell line in which Gprc5b expression was knocked down (Gprc5b KD) was generated using CRISPR-Cas9 technology. Gprc5b receptor mRNA expression, proliferation, apoptosis, Cignal 45-Pathway Reporter Array signalling and western blot assays were carried out using Gpcr5b KD MIN6 β-cells that had been transiently transfected with different concentrations of mouse Gprc5b plasmid to over-express Gprc5b. JetPRIME® was the best candidate for MIN6 β-cell transfection, providing approximately 30% transfection efficiency. CRISPR-Cas9 technology targeting Gprc5b led to stable knock-down of this receptor in MIN6 β-cells and its re-expression induced proliferation and potentiated cytokine- and palmitate-induced apoptosis. The Cignal 45 Reporter analysis indicated Gprc5b-dependent regulation of apoptotic and proliferative pathways, and western blotting confirmed activation of signalling via TGF-β and IFNγ. This study provides evidence of CRISPR-Cas9 technology being used to down-regulate Gprc5b expression in MIN6 β-cells. This strategy allowed us to identify signalling pathways linking GPRC5B receptor expression to β-cell proliferation and apoptosis. Show less