Individual differences in immune responses to African swine fever virus (ASFV), whether induced by vaccination or natural infection, may be linked to genetic variation in the genes involved in antigen Show more
Individual differences in immune responses to African swine fever virus (ASFV), whether induced by vaccination or natural infection, may be linked to genetic variation in the genes involved in antigen presentation. A total of nine pigs from the 112-population were selected for RNA-seq analysis. To pinpoint key transcription factors (TFs) regulating gene expression in the lymph nodes, weighted Kendall's Tau rank correlation analysis was performed to link the TF binding potential with the extent of differential expression of target genes. CD8 These mutations may disrupt TFs binding to the ELK4 promoter, potentially reducing ELK4 expression and impairing antigen processing and presentation. Show less
Previous studies have investigated the role of metabolic factors in risk of hematological malignancies with contradicting findings. Existing studies are generally limited by potential concern of rever Show more
Previous studies have investigated the role of metabolic factors in risk of hematological malignancies with contradicting findings. Existing studies are generally limited by potential concern of reverse causality and confounding by inflammation. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the associations of glucose, lipid, and apolipoprotein biomarkers with the risk of hematological malignancy. We performed a study of over 560,000 individuals of the Swedish AMORIS cohort, with measurements of biomarkers for carbohydrate, lipid, and apolipoprotein metabolism during 1985-1996 and follow-up until 2020. We conducted a prospective cohort study and used Cox models to investigate the association of nine different metabolic biomarkers (glucose, total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), LDL-C/HDL-C, triglyceride (TG), apolipoprotein B (ApoB), apolipoprotein A-I (ApoA I), and ApoB/ApoA-I) with risk of hematological malignancy, after excluding the first five years of follow-up and adjustment for inflammatory biomarkers. We observed a decreased risk of hematological malignancy associated with one SD increase of TC (HR 0.93; 95% CI 0.91-0.96), LDL-C (HR 0.94; 95% CI 0.91-0.97), HDL-C (HR 0.92; 95% CI 0.86-0.99), and ApoA-I (HR 0.96; 95% CI 0.93-0.996). Our study highlights a decreased risk of hematological malignancy associated with a higher level of TC, LDL-C, HDL-C, and ApoA-I. Show less
Parkinson's disease (PD), as a neurodegenerative disorder, is characterized primarily by damage to the central nervous system, accompanied by astrocyte dysfunction and the activation of ferroptosis. R Show more
Parkinson's disease (PD), as a neurodegenerative disorder, is characterized primarily by damage to the central nervous system, accompanied by astrocyte dysfunction and the activation of ferroptosis. Recent studies have shown that oligodendrocytes also exhibit functional abnormalities in the brains of PD patients and are involved in the ferroptotic process. However, it remains unclear whether there is an interaction between oligodendrocytes and astrocytes and how they induce neuronal ferroptosis. Here, we employed single-nucleus sequencing and spatial transcriptomics to characterize the intercellular communication network between oligodendrocytes and astrocytes in the PD environment. Among these, astrocytes are the primary recipients of signals sent by oligodendrocytes in the FGF (Fibroblast growth factors) signaling pathway. In PD, the communication intensity is weakened, involving FGF1 and FGF9 and their receptors FGFR1, FGFR2, and FGFR3. Subsequently, we further validated the significant activation of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation processes within oligodendrocytes and astrocytes in PD mice, and that astrocytes might also involve the interaction of Mt1 and Ca Show less
Neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) is an advanced stage of AMD and is associated with an increased risk of visual impairment. Disturbances in lipid metabolism have been proposed as a Show more
Neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) is an advanced stage of AMD and is associated with an increased risk of visual impairment. Disturbances in lipid metabolism have been proposed as a major contributing factor to the pathogenesis of AMD. This study aims to investigate whether lipid profiles in the serum and components of dyslipidemia can be used as indicators for predicting progression to nAMD. A retrospective analysis was conducted involving 125 participants with nAMD. 125 non-AMD controls, matched by age, sex, and BMI, were incorporated into the study. The comparative analysis between the groups involved six lipid biomarkers in the serum: HDL-C, LDL-C TG, TC, ApoA1, and ApoB. Moreover, the existence of dyslipidemia and its constituents was assessed through t-tests, as well as univariate and multivariable logistic regression models. Individuals with nAMD exhibited significantly higher serum HDL-C (P = 0.02) compared to the controls without AMD. Furthermore, the concentrations of ApoB were significantly less in the nAMD cohort (P < 0.01) when compared to the control group. During the investigation of the correlation between levels of serum HDL-C (P < 0.01) and serum ApoB (P < 0.01) with nAMD through logistic regression analysis, notable findings indicated a significant association between both variables and nAMD. However, by multivariate logistic regression analysis, neither serum HDL-C nor serum ApoB was an independent risk factor for nAMD. While individuals with nAMD demonstrated elevated serum HDL-C and reduced serum ApoB levels, these lipid markers may not be suitable as biomarkers for monitoring or preventing nAMD. Show less
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects a quarter of the global population and poses a remarkably serious threat to human health. The effect and potential molecular mechanisms of combined col Show more
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects a quarter of the global population and poses a remarkably serious threat to human health. The effect and potential molecular mechanisms of combined cold exposure and exercise intervention on NAFLD remain unclear. A high-fat diet-induced NAFLD mouse model was used. Twenty-four NAFLD mice were divided into three groups and subjected to cold exposure (5°C), regular-temperature exercise (22°C), or combined cold exposure and exercise (5°C) for 8 wk, 5 d·wk -1 , once daily for 1 h each session. Intervention effects were evaluated through bodyweight, liver mass, liver/bodyweight ratio, blood lipid profile, circulating fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) levels, and liver histopathology. Immunoblotting and quantitative PCR were used to assess the protein and gene expression of liver FGF21, β-klotho, and FGFR1 to preliminarily elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying NAFLD improvement by combined cold exposure and exercise. Compared with cold exposure or regular-temperature exercise alone, combined cold exposure and exercise significantly reduced the bodyweight, liver weight, and liver/bodyweight ratio in the NAFLD mice. The levels of blood lipids, circulating FGF21, and liver glycogen also significantly decreased. Furthermore, the combined intervention significantly reduced liver fat deposition and fibrosis and significantly increased the expression of FGFR1 and β-klotho proteins, suggesting the activation of the FGF21-β-klotho/FGFR1 signaling pathway. This preclinical study demonstrates that combined cold exposure and exercise synergistically alleviates NAFLD progression in animal models, primarily by activating the FGF21-β-klotho/FGFR1 pathway to enhance lipid metabolism and reduce liver injury. These findings highlight the translational potential of dual environmental and behavioral interventions, providing a mechanistic foundation for developing nonpharmacological therapies targeting metabolic pathways in humans, particularly for NAFLD patients resistant to conventional lifestyle modifications or pharmacotherapy. Show less
The extensive co-occurrence of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), as evidenced by epidemiological studies, is supported by positive genetic correlations identified in comprehensive genetic investigations Show more
The extensive co-occurrence of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), as evidenced by epidemiological studies, is supported by positive genetic correlations identified in comprehensive genetic investigations, suggesting a shared genetic basis. However, the precise genetic mechanisms underlying these associations remain elusive. By assessing genetic correlations, genetic overlap, and causal connections, we aim to shed light on common genetic underpinnings among major CVDs. Employing multi-trait analysis, we pursue diverse strategies to unveil shared genetic elements, encompassing SNPs, genes, gene sets, and functional categories with pleiotropic implications. Our study systematically quantifies genetic overlap beyond genome-wide genetic correlations across CVDs, while identifying a putative causal relationship between coronary artery disease (CAD) and heart failure (HF). We then pinpointed 38 genomic loci with pleiotropic influence across CVDs, of which the most influential pleiotropic locus is located at the LPA gene. Notably, 12 loci present high evidence of multi-trait colocalization and display congruent directional effects. Examination of genes and gene sets linked to these loci unveiled robust associations with circulatory system development processes. Intriguingly, distinct patterns predominantly driven by atrial fibrillation, coronary artery disease, and venous thromboembolism underscore the significant disparities between clinically defined CVD classifications and underlying shared biological mechanisms, according to functional annotation findings. Show less
The AMPK/SIRT1/PGC-1α pathway serves as a central regulator of cellular energy homeostasis, coordinating metabolic stress responses, epigenetic modifications, and transcriptional programs. Its dysfunc Show more
The AMPK/SIRT1/PGC-1α pathway serves as a central regulator of cellular energy homeostasis, coordinating metabolic stress responses, epigenetic modifications, and transcriptional programs. Its dysfunction is implicated in the pathogenesis of a wide spectrum of complex modern diseases, spanning neurodegeneration, metabolic syndromes, and chronic inflammatory conditions. This review examines the pathway's role as an integrative hub and its potential as a therapeutic target. We synthesize current mechanistic evidence from molecular, cellular, and preclinical studies to elucidate the pathway's operational logic and the consequences of its dysregulation. The analysis is structured around key disease paradigms-including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, diabetes, cardiovascular injury, stroke, and chronic kidney disease-to dissect its tissue-specific pathophysiological impacts. The AMPK/SIRT1/PGC-1α axis operates through a core positive feedback loop: AMPK activation elevates NAD+, thereby activating SIRT1, which in turn deacetylates and activates PGC-1α to drive mitochondrial biogenesis and function, further reinforcing SIRT1 activity. Disruption of this cascade manifests in disease-specific mechanisms: promoting Aβ production via BACE1/γ-secretase in Alzheimer's; impairing α-synuclein clearance in Parkinson's; disrupting GLUT4 translocation and insulin signaling in diabetes; exacerbating oxidative damage and mitochondrial dysfunction in cardiovascular and neuronal injury; and accelerating fibrosis and sustained inflammation in renal and pulmonary diseases via NLRP3 and TGF-β/Smad3 signaling. The AMPK/SIRT1/PGC-1α pathway represents a cornerstone target at the intersection of metabolism, aging, and disease. Current therapeutic strategies-including pharmacological activators (e.g., metformin, SRT1720), natural compounds (e.g., resveratrol), lifestyle interventions (e.g., exercise, caloric restriction), and emerging technologies (e.g., gene editing, exosomal miRNAs)-offer multidimensional avenues for intervention. Future research must prioritize elucidating tissue-specific regulatory mechanisms, such as AMPK isoform diversity and PGC-1α interactome dynamics, to enable precision therapeutics and successful clinical translation for a range of complex disorders. Show less
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) poses a substantial global threat. SARS-CoV-2 nonstructural proteins (NSPs) are essential for impeding the host replication mechanism while Show more
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) poses a substantial global threat. SARS-CoV-2 nonstructural proteins (NSPs) are essential for impeding the host replication mechanism while also assisting in the production and organization of new viral components. However, NSPs are not incorporated into viral particles, and their subsequent fate within host cells remains poorly understood. Additionally, their role in viral pathogenesis requires further investigation. This study aimed to discover the ultimate fate of NSP6 in host cells and to elucidate its role in viral pathogenesis. We investigated the effects of NSP6 on cell death and explored the underlying mechanism; moreover, we examined the degradation mechanism of NSP6 in human cells, along with analysing its correlation with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) severity in patient peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). NSP6 was demonstrated to induce cell death. Specifically, NSP6 interacted with EI24 autophagy-associated transmembrane protein (EI24) to increase intracellular Ca This study reveals that KLHL22-mediated ubiquitination controls NSP6 stability and that NSP6 induces autophagic cell death via calcium overload, highlighting its cytotoxic role and suggesting therapeutic strategies that target calcium signaling or promote NSP6 degradation as potential interventions against COVID-19. Show less
The common variant PNPLA3-I148M, globally, is the most significant genetic risk factor for fatty liver disease. However, it is unclear precisely how I148M drives disease risk. Using human hepatoma cel Show more
The common variant PNPLA3-I148M, globally, is the most significant genetic risk factor for fatty liver disease. However, it is unclear precisely how I148M drives disease risk. Using human hepatoma cells expressing endogenous I148M, we find that the variant impairs cellular secretion of apolipoprotein B (ApoB), the scaffolding protein of very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL). This is not due to loss-of-function of wild-type PNPLA3. Expression of human I148M in primary hepatocytes and mice also hinders VLDL secretion. Lipidomic profiling reveals a shift from polyunsaturated phosphatidylcholine to polyunsaturated triglycerides in I148M cells, reducing membrane fluidity and, concomitantly, VLDL biogenesis. ApoB secretion is substantially rescued in I148M cells overexpressing ABHD5/CGI-58, an I148M-binding partner that normally activates ATGL/PNPLA2-mediated triglyceride lipolysis. Conversely, knocking down CGI-58 or PNPLA2 mimics I148M. We propose that I148M is a neomorph that exacerbates fatty liver risk by simultaneously impeding two major CGI-58-dependent pathways for liver triglyceride clearance: lipolysis and secretion. 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
To date, glucocorticoids remain the mainstay of treatment of nephrotic syndrome (NS). However, serious side effects and development of drug-resistance following long-term use limit the application of Show more
To date, glucocorticoids remain the mainstay of treatment of nephrotic syndrome (NS). However, serious side effects and development of drug-resistance following long-term use limit the application of glucocorticoids. Protopanaxadiol (PPD) possesses activity of dissociating transactivation from transrepression by glucocorticoid receptor (GR), which may serve as a potential selective GR modulator. However, steroid-like effects of PPD in vivo are unclear and not defined. How to translate PPD into clinical practice remains to be explored. The current study explored the renoprotection and potential mechanism of PPD and its combination with steroid hormones using adriamycin-induced NS rats. Adriamycin was given intravenously to rats to induce nephropathy. The determination of proteinuria, biochemical changes and inflammatory cytokines were performed, and pathological changes were examined by histopathological examination. Immunostaining and PCR were used to analyze the expression of interesting proteins and genes. The results showed that PPD, alone and in combination with prednisone, efficiently alleviate the symptoms of NS, attenuate nephropathy, improve adriamycin-induced podocyte injury by reducing desmin and increasing synaptopodin expression. In addition, the combined treatment reduced the expression of NF-κB protein and mRNA, as well as cytokine levels, and yet increased the expression of GR protein and mRNA. PPD modulated the transactivation of GR, manifested as repressing TAT, PEPCK and ANGPTL4 mRNA expressions mediated by GR. Meanwhile, PPD inhibited elevation of blood glucose and immune organ atrophy induced by prednisone. In summary, PPD increases the therapeutic effect of prednisone in NS while effectively prevents or decreases the appearance of side effects of glucocorticoids. Show less
ObjectivesThis study aimed to compare the effects of different exercise interventions on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in patients with neurodegenerative diseases and to explore regu Show more
ObjectivesThis study aimed to compare the effects of different exercise interventions on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in patients with neurodegenerative diseases and to explore regulatory factors.MethodsSearched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, CNKI and Cochrane Library databases up to March 15, 2025. Bayesian network meta-analysis was conducted using R software, and meta-regression analyzed the moderating effects of training period and frequency.Results42 randomized controlled trials covering 1482 patients were included. The Surface Under the Cumulative Ranking (SUCRA) indicated that stretching training (SUCRA = 78.92) and high-intensity interval training (SUCRA = 69.73) were ranked higher than other exercise modalities and exhibited more favorable effect on BDNF enhancement, although neither demonstrated statistically significant superiority over the blank control. In contrast, combined training (SUCRA = 35.58), aerobic training (SUCRA = 35.17), and resistance training (SUCRA = 12.98) showed relatively lower potential for BDNF enhancement (blank control SUCRA = 67.62). Meta-regression analysis showed that the effect of combined training was significantly and positively correlated with intervention period ( Show less
Diabetes mellitus and dyslipidemia are major risk factors for atherosclerosis. Hypoechoic plaques, which indicate vulnerable or unstable plaques, may rupture and lead to ischemic stroke, cognitive imp Show more
Diabetes mellitus and dyslipidemia are major risk factors for atherosclerosis. Hypoechoic plaques, which indicate vulnerable or unstable plaques, may rupture and lead to ischemic stroke, cognitive impairment, increased adverse cardiac events, and even death. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between plasma lipid levels and the characteristics of atherosclerotic plaques in adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. A retrospective analysis was conducted on adult patients with type 2 mellitus who were hospitalized in the Department of Endocrinology at Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University between January 2017 and December 2021.Patients were categorized into two groups based on arterial ultrasound results. Statistical analyses were performed to compare plasma lipid levels and plaque characteristics across the groups. 1) Statistically significant differences were observed among the two groups in terms of gender, hypertension, age, duration of diabetes mellitus, plaque location, triglycerides (TG),total cholesterol (TC), Apolipoprotein A1 (Apo A1),very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), VLDL/apolipoprotein B(ApoB), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL)/ApoA1 ( In clinical practice, the characteristics of atherosclerotic plaques and lipid profiles should be jointly evaluated to guide targeted treatment and effectively reduce the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Show less
Inhibition of branched-chain ketoacid dehydrogenase kinase (BDK or BCKDK), a negative regulator of branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) metabolism, is hypothesized to treat cardio-metabolic diseases. From Show more
Inhibition of branched-chain ketoacid dehydrogenase kinase (BDK or BCKDK), a negative regulator of branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) metabolism, is hypothesized to treat cardio-metabolic diseases. From a starting point with potential idiosyncratic toxicity risk, modification to a benzothiophene core and discovery of a cryptic pocket allowed for improved potency with 3-aryl substitution to arrive at PF-07328948, which was largely devoid of protein covalent binding liability. This BDK inhibitor was shown also to be a BDK degrader in cells and in vivo rodent studies. Plasma biomarkers, including BCAAs and branched-chain ketoacids (BCKAs), were lowered in vivo with enhanced pharmacodynamic effect upon chronic dosing due to BDK degradation. This molecule improves metabolic and heart failure end points in rodent models. PF-07328948 is the first known selective BDK inhibitor candidate to be examined in clinical studies, with Phase 1 single ascending dose data showing good tolerability and a pharmacokinetic profile commensurate with once-daily dosing. Show less
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an innovative non-invasive therapy for human cancer treatment. The significance of apoptosis-related genes (ARGs) in the prognosis of bladder cancer (BLCA) has gradually Show more
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an innovative non-invasive therapy for human cancer treatment. The significance of apoptosis-related genes (ARGs) in the prognosis of bladder cancer (BLCA) has gradually emerged. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the prognostic significance and pathogenesis of PDT related genes (PDTRGs)-ARGs in BLCA cases. Based on the BLCA data in TCGA, PDTRGs-ARGs with prognostic value in BLCA patients were screened. Subsequently, the prognostic value and diagnostic performance of all candidate genes were evaluated by univariate Cox regression analysis and ROC curves. Then, GSEA, GSVA and immune microenvironment analysis were conducted based on candidate genes. Finally, the molecular mechanisms of key candidate genes in BLCA patients were initially explored by qRT-PCR, CCK-8 analysis, Transwell Assay and Western Blotting. A total of 5 ARGs-PDTRGs (EMP1, FGFR1, PLPPR4, JUN, TNFRSF25) were screened as prognostic biomarkers for BLCA. Survival analysis revealed significant differences in overall survival of the five prognostic biomarkers in the high/low expression groups. ROC curve analysis revealed that the five prognostic biomarkers had strong prognostic predictive ability. QRT-PCR proved that the expression of EMP1, FGFR1, PLPPR4 and JUN was obviously reduced, while TNFRSF25 was markedly increased in BLCA tissue samples and cell lines. The following research confirmed that FGFR1 inhibited the biological process of T24 cells by activating cGMP-PKG pathway. Five ARGs-PDTRGs (EMP1, FGFR1, PLPPR4, JUN, TNFRSF25) were screened as prognostic biomarkers for BLCA. Among them, FGFR1 inhibits the biological process of T24 cells via activating cGMP-PKG pathway. Show less
The differential impact of serum lipids and their targets for lipid modification on cardiometabolic disease risk is debated. This study used Mendelian randomization to investigate the causal relations Show more
The differential impact of serum lipids and their targets for lipid modification on cardiometabolic disease risk is debated. This study used Mendelian randomization to investigate the causal relationships and underlying mechanisms. Genetic variants related to lipid profiles and targets for lipid modification were sourced from the Global Lipids Genetics Consortium. Summary data for 10 cardiometabolic diseases were compiled from both discovery and replication data sets. Expression quantitative trait loci data from relevant tissues were employed to evaluate significant lipid-modifying drug targets. Comprehensive analyses including colocalization, mediation, and bioinformatics were conducted to validate the results and investigate potential mediators and mechanisms. Significant causal associations were identified between lipids, lipid-modifying drug targets, and various cardiometabolic diseases. Notably, genetic enhancement of LPL (lipoprotein lipase) was linked to reduced risks of myocardial infarction (odds ratio [OR] The study substantiates the causal role of lipids in specific cardiometabolic diseases, highlighting LPL as a potent drug target. The effects of LPL are suggested to be influenced by changes in glucose and blood pressure, providing insights into its mechanism of action. Show less
Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is a practical and effective method for treating coronary heart disease (CHD). This study aims to explore the influencing factors of major cardiovascular event Show more
Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is a practical and effective method for treating coronary heart disease (CHD). This study aims to explore the influencing factors of major cardiovascular events (MACEs) and hospital readmission risk within one year following PCI treatment. Additionally, it seeks to assess the clinical value of Apolipoprotein B/Apolipoprotein A-I (ApoB/ApoA-I) in predicting the risk of one-year MACEs and readmission post-PCI. A retrospective study included 1938 patients who underwent PCI treatment from January 2010 to December 2018 at Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated with Shandong First Medical University. Patient demographics, medications, and biochemical indicators were recorded upon admission, with one-year follow-up post-operation. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression models were utilized to establish the relationship between ApoB/ApoA-I levels and MACEs/readmission. Predictive nomograms were constructed to forecast MACEs and readmission, with the accuracy of the nomograms assessed using the concordance index. Subgroup analyses were conducted to explore the occurrence of MACEs and readmission. We observed a correlation between ApoB/ApoA-I and other lipid indices, including total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (P < 0.001). Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses demonstrated that ApoB/ApoA-I is an independent risk factor for MACEs in post-PCI patients (P = 0.038). Within one year, the incidence of MACEs significantly increased in the high-level ApoB/ApoA-I group (ApoB/ApoA-I ratio ≥ 0.824) (P = 0.038), while the increase in readmission incidence within one year was not statistically significant. Furthermore, a nomogram predicting one-year MACEs was established (Concordance Index: 0.668). Subgroup analysis revealed that ApoB/ApoA-I was associated with the occurrence of both MACEs and readmission in male patients, those using CCB/ARB/ACEI, those without multivessel diseases, or those with LDL-C < 2.6 mmol/L. The ApoB/ApoA-I ratio serves as an independent risk factor for one-year MACEs in post-PCI patients and correlates closely with other blood lipid indicators. ApoB/ApoA-I demonstrates significant predictive value for the occurrence of MACEs within one year.Trial registration Chinese clinical trial registry: No.ChiCTR22000597-23. Show less
To investigate the effect of tannic acid (TA) on the growth, disease resistance, and intestinal health of Chinese soft-shelled turtles, individual turtles were fed with 0 g/kg (CG), 0.5 g/kg, 1 g/kg, Show more
To investigate the effect of tannic acid (TA) on the growth, disease resistance, and intestinal health of Chinese soft-shelled turtles, individual turtles were fed with 0 g/kg (CG), 0.5 g/kg, 1 g/kg, 2 g/kg, and 4 g/kg TA diets for 98 days. Afterwards, the turtles' disease resistance was tested using Show less
The prognosis for colorectal cancer (CRC) patients with liver metastasis remains poor, and the molecular mechanisms driving CRC liver metastasis are not fully understood. Tumor-derived hypoxia-induced Show more
The prognosis for colorectal cancer (CRC) patients with liver metastasis remains poor, and the molecular mechanisms driving CRC liver metastasis are not fully understood. Tumor-derived hypoxia-induced extracellular vesicles have emerged as key players in inducing angiogenesis by transferring noncoding RNAs. However, the specific role of CRC-derived hypoxic extracellular vesicles (H-EVs) in regulating premetastatic microenvironment (PMN) formation by inducing angiogenesis remains unclear. Our study demonstrates that H-EVs induce angiogenesis and liver metastasis. Through microRNA microarray analysis, we identified a reduction in miR-6084 levels within H-EVs. We found that miR-6084 inhibited angiogenesis by being transferred to endothelial cells via EVs. In endothelial cells, miR-6084 directly targeted angiopoietin like 4 (ANGPTL4) mRNA, thereby suppressing angiogenesis through the ANGPTL4-mediated JAK2/STAT3 pathway. Furthermore, we uncovered that specificity protein 1 (SP1) acted as a transcription factor regulating miR-6084 transcription, while hypoxia-inducible factor 1A (HIF1A) decreased miR-6084 expression by promoting SP1 protein dephosphorylation and facilitating ubiquitin-proteasome degradation in SW620 cells. In clinical samples, we observed low expression of miR-6084 in plasma-derived EVs from CRC patients with liver metastasis. In summary, our findings suggest that CRC-derived H-EVs promote angiogenesis and liver metastasis through the HIF1A/SP1/miR-6084/ANGPTL4 axis. Additionally, miR-6084 holds promise as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for CRC liver metastasis. Show less
Tumor fibrosis is recognized as a malignant hallmark in various solid tumors; however, the clinical importance and associated molecular characteristics of tumor fibrosis in liver metastases (LM) from Show more
Tumor fibrosis is recognized as a malignant hallmark in various solid tumors; however, the clinical importance and associated molecular characteristics of tumor fibrosis in liver metastases (LM) from colorectal cancer (CRLM) remain poorly understood. Here we show that patients with CRLM whose liver metastases (LM) exhibited tumor fibrosis (Fibrosis+ LM) had significantly worse progression-free survival (P = 0.025) and overall survival (P = 0.008). Single-cell RNA sequencing revealed that the tumor microenvironment of the Fibrosis+ LM was characterized by T cells with an exhausted phenotype, macrophages displaying a profibrotic and suppressive phenotype and fibrosis-promoting fibroblasts. Further investigation highlighted the pivotal role of VCAN_eCAF in remodeling the tumor fibrosis in the tumor microenvironment of Fibrosis+ LM, emphasizing potential targetable interactions such as FGF23 or FGF3-FGFR1. Validation through multiplex immunohistochemistry/immunofluorescence and spatial transcriptomics supported these findings. Here we present a comprehensive single-cell atlas of tumor fibrosis in LM, revealing the intricate multicellular environment and molecular features associated with it. These insights deepen our understanding of tumor fibrosis mechanisms and inform improved clinical diagnosis and treatment strategies. Show less
Ischemic injury induces a partial mesenchymal shift in endothelial cells (ECs), contributing to impaired vascular regeneration. However, the molecular regulators of this transitional state remain poor Show more
Ischemic injury induces a partial mesenchymal shift in endothelial cells (ECs), contributing to impaired vascular regeneration. However, the molecular regulators of this transitional state remain poorly defined. To address this, we performed circular RNA profiling of endothelial cells under ischemic-like conditions and identified a marked upregulation of a circular RNA, named circATXN1. Functional studies revealed that circATXN1 knockdown modulates endothelial phenotype and vascular response after ischemia. Functional studies have shown that knockdown of circATXN1 can regulate the endothelial cell phenotype and vascular response after ischemia. Mechanistically, circATXN1 knockdown enhances the demethylase protein ALKBH5 to reduce the RNA methylation level of the key transcription factor SLUG, thereby stabilizing SLUG. In animal models, suppression of circATXN1 enhances angiogenesis and improves recovery following ischemic injury. Here, we show that circATXN1 regulates partial endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) and angiogenesis by controlling SLUG mRNA methylation dynamics, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target in ischemic disease. Show less
Second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) are widely used to treat schizophrenia (SCZ), but they often induce metabolic side effects like dyslipidemia and obesity. We conducted genome-wide association s Show more
Second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) are widely used to treat schizophrenia (SCZ), but they often induce metabolic side effects like dyslipidemia and obesity. We conducted genome-wide association studies (GWASs) to identify genetic variants associated with SGA-induced lipid and BMI changes in Chinese SCZ patients. A longitudinal cohort of Chinese SCZ receiving SGAs was followed for up to 18.7 years (mean = 5.7 years, SD = 3.3 years). We analysed the patients' genotypes (N = 669), lipid profiles, and BMI using 19 316 prescription records and 3 917 to 7 596 metabolic measurements per outcome. Linear mixed models were employed to evaluate seven SGAs' random effects on metabolic changes for each patient, followed by GWAS and gene set analyses with Bonferroni and FDR correction. Five SNPs achieved p-value < 5 × 10 Show less
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is an inherited cardiovascular disorder characterized by left ventricular hypertrophy and an elevated risk of sudden cardiac death. Cardiac myosin binding protein C ( Show more
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is an inherited cardiovascular disorder characterized by left ventricular hypertrophy and an elevated risk of sudden cardiac death. Cardiac myosin binding protein C (MYBPC3) is the most frequently mutated gene leading to HCM. In this study, peripheral blood mononuclear cells isolated from an HCM patient harboring a heterozygous MYBPC3 missense mutation (c.3072C > A; p.S1024R) were reprogrammed via Sendai virus vectors to generate a patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) line. The iPSC line exhibits normal morphology and karyotype, alongside definitive hallmarks of pluripotency, including trilineage differentiation potential. Show less
This study aimed to explore the genotype and phenotype correlation of patients with multiple osteochondroma (MO), and validate phenotypic differences in ATDC5 cell model with Mutation analysis was emp Show more
This study aimed to explore the genotype and phenotype correlation of patients with multiple osteochondroma (MO), and validate phenotypic differences in ATDC5 cell model with Mutation analysis was employed in 27 families with MO using polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-Sanger sequencing and targeted next-generation sequencing (t-NGS). ATDC5 cell model with A total of 27 pathogenic mutations were identified in Clinical research identified nine novel mutations in Show less
Glioma is a highly aggressive malignancy with no effective treatment. This study investigates the role of protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor type N (PTPRN) in glioma progression. The U87 human glio Show more
Glioma is a highly aggressive malignancy with no effective treatment. This study investigates the role of protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor type N (PTPRN) in glioma progression. The U87 human glioma cell line was used to monitor proliferation, invasion, and migration during PTPRN knockdown. The viability, migration, and invasion were analyzed using the Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, transwell migration, and invasion assays. Additionally, the expression of proteins associated with the cell cycle was examined using western blotting. The knockdown of PTPRN resulted in a reduction in glioma cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, as well as the expression of cell cycle markers like Show less
Spatial representation is a core element of spatial cognition in orienteering, but the visual-spatial neural modulation mechanisms underlying spatial representations with differently oriented maps hav Show more
Spatial representation is a core element of spatial cognition in orienteering, but the visual-spatial neural modulation mechanisms underlying spatial representations with differently oriented maps have not yet been systematically elucidated. This study recruited 67 orienteering athletes as participants and employed a single-factor (map orientation: normal vs. rotated) between-subjects experimental design. Eye-tracking and functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) techniques were used simultaneously to collect behavioral, eye movement, and brain activity data, investigating the effects of map orientation on visual attention and brain activity characteristics during terrain symbol representation processing in orienteering athletes. The results revealed that compared to the normal orientation, the rotated orientation led to significantly decreased task accuracy, significantly prolonged reaction times, and significantly increased saccade amplitude and pupil diameter. Brain activation analysis showed that the rotated orientation elicited significantly higher activation levels in the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (R-DLPFC), bilateral parietal lobe cortex (L-PL, R-PL), right temporal lobe (R-TL), and visual cortex (VC) compared to the normal orientation, along with enhanced functional connectivity. Correlation analysis revealed that under normal map orientation, accuracy was positively correlated with both saccade amplitude and pupil diameter; accuracy was positively correlated with activation in the R-DLPFC; saccade amplitude was positively correlated with activation in the R-DLPFC and R-PL; and pupil diameter was positively correlated with activation in the R-DLPFC. Under rotated map orientation, accuracy was positively correlated with saccade amplitude and pupil diameter, and pupil diameter was positively correlated with activation in both the L-PL and R-PL. The results indicate that map orientation significantly influences the visual search patterns and neural activity characteristics of orienteering athletes, impacting task performance through the coupling mode of visual-neural activity. Show less
Tumorigenesis is typically accompanied by cellular dedifferentiation and the acquisition of stem cell-like attributes. However, few studies have comprehensively evaluated the putative relationships be Show more
Tumorigenesis is typically accompanied by cellular dedifferentiation and the acquisition of stem cell-like attributes. However, few studies have comprehensively evaluated the putative relationships between these characteristics and various cancers. Here, we integrated gene expression and DNA methylation quantitative trait loci (cis-eQTL and cis-mQTL) data from the blood to perform multi-omics Mendelian randomization analysis. Our analyses revealed 967 stem cell-associated genes (P < 0.05) and 11,262 methylation sites (P < 0.01) significantly related to 12 cancers. SMAD7 (cg14321542) in colon cancer, IGF2 (cg13508136) in prostate cancer, and FADS1 (cg07005513) in rectal cancer were prioritized as candidate causal genes and regulatory elements. Notably, using cis-eQTL data from the corresponding tissue sites, we detected 16 stem cell-associated genes dramatically causally associated with six cancers (FDR<0.2). The gene THBS3 was particularly common in both blood and stomach tissues and exhibited prognostic significance. Furthermore, it was markedly associated with one microbial metabolic pathway and four immunophenotypes. Functional validation using the ECC12 gastric cancer cell line revealed that the inhibition of its expression could accelerate oxidative phosphorylation and reactive oxygen species production, reduce clonal proliferation ability, and promote the apoptosis of stomach tumor cells. Additionally, based on spatial transcriptomic data from gastrointestinal cancers, the results demonstrated the clusters enriched with the most stem cell-associated genes exhibited significantly enhanced tumor-promoting potency, and the THBS3-expressing cells displayed suppressed oxidative phosphorylation. Overall, this study enhances our understanding of tumorigenic mechanisms and aids in the identification of therapeutic targets. Show less
Protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5) complexes with methylosome protein 50 (MEP50) play crucial roles in tumor progress. However, the regulatory mechanism of governing the PRMT5-MEP50 hetero-o Show more
Protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5) complexes with methylosome protein 50 (MEP50) play crucial roles in tumor progress. However, the regulatory mechanism of governing the PRMT5-MEP50 hetero-octameric complex remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that C6orf223, to our knowledge an uncharacterized protein, facilitates PRMT5-MEP50 multiprotein complex assembling, thereby promoting colorectal cancer (CRC) growth and metastasis. C6orf223 forms dimers through disulfide bonds, with its N-terminal arginine-enriched region binding to the C-terminal negatively charged groove of PRMT5, thus stabilizing PRMT5-MEP50 multiprotein and enhancing PRMT5 methyltransferase activity. Consequently, PRMT5-mediated H4R3me2s substantially decreases the expression of the tumor suppressor GATA5, leading to the upregulation of multiple oncogenic target genes including WWTR1, FGFR1, and CLU. Targeting C6orf223 using siRNAs encapsulated in ferritin protein shells effectively suppresses CRC tumor growth and metastasis. Collectively, our findings characterize the role of C6orf223 in facilitating PRMT5-MEP50 hetero-octameric complex assembling and suggest that C6orf223 could serve as a potential therapeutic target for CRC. Show less