RARB genetic variants might contribute to the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease based on a case-control study

BACKGROUND

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive respiratory disease that severely impairs patients' respiratory function and quality of life. RARB is involved in COPD progression by affecting inflammatory reactions, cell proliferation, and apoptosis. The impact of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within RARB on COPD susceptibility remains unclear. Here, we aimed to evaluate the association between RARB SNPs and COPD risk.

METHODS

A total of 270 COPD patients and 271 healthy controls were enrolled. The MassARRAY iPLEX platform tested the genotype of the SNPs. The association was analyzed using logistic regression analysis. The false-positive report probability (FPRP) analysis was performed to validate the significant findings. The relationship between SNPs and RARB expression was evaluated using the GTEx database.

RESULTS

Our study found a significant association between rs6799734 and COPD susceptibility (OR 1.88, p = 0.008, p (FDR) = 0.047). The stratified analysis revealed that this association was particularly pronounced among individuals aged ≤ 71 years (OR 2.34, p = 0.011, p (FDR) = 0.045), males (OR 2.60, p = 0.002, p (FDR) = 0.013), those with a BMI ≥ 24 (OR 3.95, p = 0.018, p (FDR) = 0.108), and smokers (OR 2.48, p = 0.020, p (FDR) = 0.120). Additionally, rs1286641 and rs1881706 showed significant associations with COPD risk in females and smokers. These associations were further validated by FPRP analysis. Preliminary mechanism studies indicated that rs1286641 and rs1881706 were related to RARB expression.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest a potential role of RARB SNPs in influencing COPD risk.

Development of an underutilized part of Syzygium aromaticum based on phytochemical and bioactivity assessment

Syzygium aromaticum is an aromatic plant that has been widely introduced to tropical regions worldwide. S. aromaticum bud (SAB), as a valuable spice, has been used for centuries, owing to its exceptional health benefits and economic value. The fruit of S. aromaticum (SAF) is not a commonly used component and its phytochemical properties and bioactivities have seldom been analyzed. Herein, ultra-performance liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry combined with feature-based molecular networking analysis was applied to characterize the phytochemical constituents of these two parts individually. The bioactivities of SAB and SAF were innovatively evaluated, including their hypolipidemic activity on human hepatocellular carcinoma cells, anti-inflammatory activity on RAW264.7 cells, and anti-proliferative activity on vascular smooth muscle cells. Initially, 75 components from SAB and SAF extracts were identified. Subsequently, activity experiments indicated that both SAB and SAF extracts showed significant activities in these cell types. Intriguingly, they showed similar hypolipidemic effects but different anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative effects. Then, 14 differential markers were screened for further quantitative analysis to explore the material basis for the difference in bioactivity between SAB and SAF. Finally, using correlation analysis, 10 compounds were identified as biomarkers that contributed to the difference in activity between SAB and SAF. These results suggest that SAF is rich in natural metabolites, showing potential as a natural plant component with hypolipidemic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-proliferative effects. This study could contribute to the targeted selection of different parts of S. aromaticum and serve as a foundation for the development and utilization of SAF.

An updated and comprehensive review of the health benefits and pharmacological activities of hesperidin

OBJECTIVES

This review aims to comprehensively assess the health benefits and pharmacological activities of hesperidin, a flavonoid commonly found in citrus fruits. It consolidates recent research findings to provide insights into hesperidin's diverse health-promoting effects.

KEY FINDINGS

Hesperidin has gained significant attention recently for its notable pharmacological activities and potential health benefits. Studies reveal its antioxidant properties, protecting cells from oxidative damage, and its anti-inflammatory effects, inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes. Also, hesperidin shows promise in cardiovascular health by reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels and enhancing endothelial function. It also exhibits anticancer potential by hindering cell proliferation, inducing apoptosis, and suppressing tumour growth. Moreover, hesperidin demonstrates neuroprotective effects, potentially mitigating neuroinflammation and oxidative stress associated with neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, it displays beneficial effects in metabolic disorders such as diabetes, obesity, and fatty liver disease by influencing glucose metabolism, lipid profile, and insulin sensitivity.

SUMMARY

Hesperidin exhibits a wide range of health benefits and pharmacological activities, making it a promising candidate for therapeutic interventions in various diseases. Its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardiovascular, anticancer, neuroprotective, and metabolic effects underscore its potential as a valuable natural compound for promoting health and preventing chronic diseases.

Metabolic reprogramming in cholangiocarcinoma cancer stem cells: Emerging therapeutic paradigms

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is an aggressive malignancy characterized by limited therapeutic options and poor prognosis, largely attributed to the presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs). These CSCs serve as pivotal drivers of tumor heterogeneity, chemotherapy resistance, and disease recurrence. CSCs in CCA exhibit remarkable plasticity, a characteristic sustained through metabolic state alterations and intricate interactions with the tumor microenvironment (TME), which collectively enhance their self-renewal and survival potential. While advancements have been made in understanding metabolic reprogramming of CCA CSCs, translating these findings into clinical applications encounters significant challenges, including insufficient target specificity, complex metabolic heterogeneity, and the profound complexity of the TME. This review provides a systematic evaluation of metabolic reprogramming mechanisms in CCA CSCs, with critical analysis of stemness-maintaining signaling pathways, oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), nutrient utilization, metabolic crosstalk within the TME, autophagy regulation, and ferroptosis resistance. We emphasize emerging strategies to therapeutically target the interconnected metabolic networks essential for CSC functionality and survival, with the goal of establishing a theoretical basis for innovative precision therapies to enhance clinical outcomes for CCA patients.

Therapeutic potential of Da Cheng Qi Decoction and its ingredients in regulating ferroptosis via the NOX2-GPX4 signaling pathway to alleviate and predict severe acute pancreatitis

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to elucidate the protective effects of Da Cheng Qi Decoction (DCQD) on severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) by targeting ferroptosis in pancreatic acinar cells and to establish a predictive signature and nomogram for acute pancreatitis (AP) risk assessment.

METHODS

We utilized microarray analysis to delineate gene expression patterns among 32 healthy controls and 87 AP patients stratified by severity. Employing SAP models and NOX2-deficient cells, we investigated the molecular underpinnings of ferroptosis. The impact of DCQD and the ferroptosis inhibitor Fer-1 on gene expression, oxidative stress, and inflammation was assessed. Machine learning algorithms identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) sensitive to DCQD, SAP, and ferroptosis (DSNFGs), which were validated across multiple datasets. A predictive nomogram integrating DSNFGs was developed, and single-cell analysis provided a comprehensive view of the cellular dynamics.

RESULTS

The microarray analysis revealed upregulation of NOX2 and downregulation of GPX4 in AP, with expression patterns correlating with disease severity. DCQD ameliorated SAP-induced pancreatic acinar cell damage and ferroptosis by reducing inflammatory markers and enhancing GPX4 expression. NOX2 knockout mitigated ferroptosis in SAP models, suggesting a key role in the disease process. DCQD and Fer-1 differentially regulated the expression of ferroptosis-related genes, reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) and high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) levels, and suppressed the inflammatory response in a SAP mouse model. The HPLC analysis of DCQD constituents indicated eight components (aloe-emodin, rhein, emodin, chrysophanol, naringin, hesperidin, magnolol, and honokiol) with the capacity to modulate ferroptosis. Venn analysis identified 48 DSNFGs, with a subset of five genes demonstrating significant predictive value. The developed nomogram, based on LASSO regression, showed high accuracy in validation cohorts. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and CellChat analysis uncovered heterogeneity and cell-cell communication networks in the pancreas during recovery from pancreatitis, implicating several signaling pathways.

CONCLUSION

DCQD and its eight ingredients exert its protective effect in SAP by inhibiting ferroptosis through the NOX2/GPX4 pathway. The DCQD-SAP-ferroptosis-related signature and nomogram offer a novel tool for AP risk assessment, prognosis prediction, and personalized therapeutic strategies in SAP management.

Association between Mixed Heavy Metal Exposure and Arterial Stiffness, with Alkaline Phosphatase Identified as a Mediator

Elevated arterial stiffness has been associated with exposure to heavy metals such as lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd). However, the collective impact of multiple metals and the underlying mechanisms are not fully elucidated. The purpose of this study was to assess the combined effects of exposure to nine heavy metals on arterial stiffness and explore whether serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) acts as a mediator in this relationship. In the retrospective analysis, data from 8,700 participants were retrieved from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) spanning from 1999 to 2018. Arterial stiffness was measured by estimated pulse wave velocity (ePWV). The cumulative impact of exposure to multiple metals was examined using adaptive elastic-net, environmental risk score, weighted quantile sum regression, and quantile g-computation. Additionally, mediation analysis was conducted to explore the potential mediating role of serum ALP. We found that combined exposure to multiple metals was consistently associated with elevated ePWV, with Ba, Pb, and Sb exhibiting the greatest contributions. Notably, serum ALP partially mediated the associations between individual (Pb, Sb) and mixed metal exposure with ePWV, with mediation proportions at 10.76% for Pb, 18.22% for Sb, and 11.07% for mixed metal exposure. In conclusion, this study demonstrates a clear association between exposure to heavy metals, either individually or in combination, and heightened arterial stiffness. Furthermore, the findings suggest that serum ALP activity may act as a mediator in these relationships.

Metformin-induced E6/E7 inhibition prevents HPV-positive cancer progression through p53 reactivation

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is implicated in multiple lethal cancers, although it is more sensitive to certain therapies than HPV-negative cancers. Therefore, the development of more targeted therapeutic strategies is imperative. The HPV oncogenes E6/E7 are ideal targets for HPV-positive cancer, but there are no clinical strategies that have been proven to effectively target E6/E7. Notably, metformin significantly inhibits E6/E7 expression; however, the underlying mechanism and therapeutic potential remain unclear, limiting its clinical translation. Cell Counting Kit-8, ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine, and terminal-deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated Nick end labeling assays were conducted to evaluate the effects of metformin on cell viability, proliferation, and apoptosis. Quantitative real-time PCR, western blotting, and immunofluorescence assays were performed to determine changes in E6/E7 and p53 expression levels following metformin treatment. Patient-derived organoids and in-vivo xenograft models were constructed to evaluate the anticancer activity of metformin against HPV-positive cancer. Our research demonstrated enhanced sensitivity of HPV-positive cancer cells to metformin. Mechanistic studies have revealed that metformin exerts anticancer effects by inhibiting E6/E7 expression, which is associated with p53 reactivation. Furthermore, we substantiated the anticancer potential of metformin in HPV-positive patient-derived organoids and in-vivo tumor models. Our study focused on the mechanism underlying the enhanced responsiveness of HPV-positive cancer to metformin, highlighting the clinical potential of metformin as a targeted therapeutic strategy for HPV-positive cancer.

Effect of curcumin on cardiometabolic diseases in the elderly: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials

INTRODUCTION

As people age, the incidence of cardiometabolic diseases rises, negatively impacting their quality of life; therefore, it is important to supplement the diet with compounds that can manage these conditions. Curcumin (Cur), a common dietary spice, may benefit the health of the elderly. This systematic review evaluates Cur's effectiveness in improving cardiometabolic disease symptoms.

METHODS

Relevant studies were identified from searches conducted in Scopus, Embase, and PubMed. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 (RoB 2) tool.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Seven randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included. Cur supplementation (CurS) in elderly individuals resulted in significant improvements in several metabolic and inflammatory markers, including reductions in C-reactive protein (CRP) (p=0.03), systolic blood pressure (p=0.04), fasting blood sugar (p=0.02), and HOMA-IR (p=0.01) compared with controls. Additionally, a significant decrease in triglyceride levels (p=0.04) and an increase in HDL (p=0.03) were observed. However, effects on other cardiovascular indices were inconsistent across the studies.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that Cur may serve as an adjunctive therapy for age-related cardiometabolic diseases; however, variability in outcomes and protocols limits the ability to make broad recommendations. Future research should focus on large, well-powered RCTs with standardized dosing, formulations, and treatment durations, including long-term follow-up to assess sustained efficacy and delayed adverse effects. Comprehensive safety monitoring and detailed documentation of supplement composition and patient characteristics are also needed to clarify heterogeneity and identify those at higher risk for complications.

Mitochondrial genomic alterations in cholangiocarcinoma cell lines

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a diverse collection of malignant tumors that originate in the bile ducts. Mitochondria, the energy converters in eukaryotic cells, contain circular mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) which has a greater mutation rate than nuclear DNA. Heteroplasmic variations in mtDNA may suggest an increased risk of cancer-related mortality, serving as a potential prognostic marker. In this study, we investigated the mtDNA variations of five CCA cell lines, including KKU-023, KKU-055, KKU-100, KKU213A, and KKU-452 and compared them to the non-tumor cholangiocyte MMNK-1 cell line. We used Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT), a long-read sequencing technology capable of synthesizing the whole mitochondrial genome, which facilitates enhanced identification of complicated rearrangements in mitogenomics. The analysis revealed a high frequency of SNVs and INDELs, particularly in the D-loop, MT-RNR2, MT-CO1, MT-ND4, and MT-ND5 genes. Significant mutations were detected in all CCA cell lines, with particularly notable non-synonymous SNVs such as m.8462T > C in KKU-023, m.9493G > A in KKU-055, m.9172C > A in KKU-100, m.15024G > C in KKU-213A, m.12994G > A in KKU-452, and m.13406G > A in MMNK-1, which demonstrated high pathogenicity scores. The presence of these mutations suggests the potential for mitochondrial dysfunction and CCA progression. Analysis of mtDNA structural variants (SV) revealed significant variability among the cell lines. We identified 208 SVs in KKU-023, 185 SVs in KKU-055, 231 SVs in KKU-100, 69 SVs in KKU-213A, 172 SVs in KKU-452, and 217 SVs in MMNK-1. These SVs included deletions, duplications, and inversions, with the highest variability observed in KKU-100 and the lowest in KKU-213A. Our results underscore the diverse mtDNA mutation landscape in CCA cell lines, highlighting the potential impact of these mutations on mitochondrial function and CCA cell line progression. Future research is required to investigate the functional impacts of these variants, their interactions with nuclear DNA in CCA, and their potential as targets for therapeutic intervention.

Improving mitochondria-associated endoplasmic reticulum membranes integrity as converging therapeutic strategy for rare neurodegenerative diseases and cancer

Membrane contact sites harbor a distinct set of proteins with varying biological functions, thereby emerging as hubs for localized signaling nanodomains underlying adequate cell function. Here, we will focus on mitochondria-associated endoplasmic reticulum membranes (MAMs), which serve as hotspots for Ca2+ signaling, redox regulation, lipid exchange, mitochondrial quality and unfolded protein response pathway. A network of MAM-resident proteins contributes to the structural integrity and adequate function of MAMs. Beyond endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-mitochondrial tethering proteins, MAMs contain several multi-protein complexes that mediate the transfer of or are influenced by Ca2+, reactive oxygen species and lipids. Particularly, IP3 receptors, intracellular Ca2+-release channels, and Sigma-1 receptors (S1Rs), ligand-operated chaperones, serve as important platforms that recruit different accessory proteins and intersect with these local signaling processes. Furthermore, many of these proteins are directly implicated in pathophysiological conditions, where their dysregulation or mutation is not only causing diseases such as cancer and neurodegeneration, but also rare genetic diseases, for example familial Parkinson's disease (PINK1, Parkin, DJ-1), familial Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (TDP43), Wolfram syndrome1/2 (WFS1 and CISD2), Harel-Yoon syndrome (ATAD3A). In this review, we will discuss the current state-of-the-art regarding the molecular components, protein platforms and signaling networks underlying MAM integrity and function in cell function and how their dysregulation impacts MAMs, thereby driving pathogenesis and/or impacting disease burden. We will highlight how these insights can generate novel, potentially therapeutically relevant, strategies to tackle disease outcomes by improving the integrity of MAMs and the signaling processes occurring at these membrane contact sites.

Classification of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma

Cholangiocarcinoma is a heterogenous malignancy with various classifications based on location, morphological features, histological features, and actionable genetic mutations. Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC), which arises in and proximal to second order bile ducts, is the second most common primary liver malignancy after hepatocellular carcinoma. In this review, we will discuss ICC risk factors, precursor lesions, various growth, anatomic, morphologic, and histologic classifications, rare variants, and differential diagnoses.

Molecular signatures of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: role in targeted therapy selection

Cholangiocarcinoma is a highly lethal disease with a 5-year overall survival rate of 7-20%. A minority of patients present with resectable disease, and relapse rates remain high. Emerging data from next generation sequencing analysis have identified various actionable mutations which drive the different disease courses opening door to precision medicine and targeted therapies. This review focuses on the clinical significance of genetic alterations as well as the role of systemic therapies, immunotherapy and targeted therapies for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma.

Essential and Non-Essential Metals and Metalloids and Their Role in Atherosclerosis

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is becoming more prevalent in the aging developed world and can have significant functional impacts on patients. There is a recent recognition that environmental toxicants such as circulating metals and metalloids may contribute to the pathogenesis of atherosclerotic disease, but the mechanisms are complex. While the broad toxic biologic effects of metals in human systems have been extensively reviewed, the role of non-essential exposure and essential metal aberrancy in PAD specifically is less frequently discussed. This review of the literature describes current scientific knowledge regarding the individual roles several major metals and metalloids play in atherogenesis and highlights areas where a dearth of data exist. The roles of lead (Pb), arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), selenium (Se) are included. Contemporary outcomes of therapeutic trials aimed at chelation therapy of circulating metals to impact cardiovascular outcomes are also discussed. This review highlights the supported notion of differential metal presence within peripheral plaques themselves, although distinguishing their roles within these plaques requires further illumination.

hpCasMINI: An engineered hypercompact CRISPR-Cas12f system with boosted gene editing activity

Compact CRISPR-Cas systems have demonstrated potential for effective packaging into adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) for use in gene therapy. However, their applications are currently limited due to modest gene-editing activity. Here we introduce an engineered compact CRISPR-Cas12f (hpCasMINI, 554 aa), with hyper editing efficiency in mammalian cells via adding an α-helix structure to the N-terminus of an Un1Cas12f1 variant CasMINI (529 aa). The hpCasMINI system boosts gene activation and DNA cleavage activity with about 1.4-3.0-fold and 1.1-19.5-fold, respectively, and maintains the high specificity when compared to CasMINI. In addition, the system can activate luciferase reporter gene and endogenous Fgf21 gene in adult mouse liver, as well as construct liver tumorigenesis model via disrupting Trp53 and Pten genes and inserting oncogenic KrasG12D into the Trp53 locus. When compared to SpCas9 and LbCas12a, hpCasMINI displays higher gene activation and exhibits higher DNA cleavage specificity, although with lower activity, at the tested sites. Moreover, with a similar strategy, we engineer compact versions of hpOsCas12f1 (458 aa) from enOsCas12f1 and hpAsCas12f1 (447 aa) from AsCas12f1-HKRA, both of which display increased DNA cleavage activity, with hpAsCas12f1 also showing improved gene activation capability. Therefore, we develop activity-increased miniature hpCasMINI, hpOsCas12f1 and hpAsCas12f1 nucleases, which hold great potential for gene therapy in the future.

The Hidden Power of Black Pepper: Exploring Piperine's Role in Cancer

Cancer is a multifaceted disease that occurs when cells proliferate and migrate in an uncontrolled and unregulated manner. The development of cancer is the result of the interaction of a number of factors, including genetic mutations, environmental factors and lifestyle habits. There are many pharmacological and natural compounds that can be used to prevent and/or treat cancer. Piperine, a naturally occurring compound with multiple therapeutic properties, is the primary bioactive component of black pepper (Piper nigrum L.), a member of the Piperaceae plant family. In recent years, it has attracted much interest as a potentially useful agent for the preventive and curative management of cancer. Results from studies of human cancer cell lines and advanced animal tumour models suggest that there are multiple pathways by which piperine may affect cancer development and metastasis. This review examines the molecular and cellular mechanisms through which piperine exerts its effects on cancer formation and progression, as well as its potential effects on various types of cancer.

Effects of Cereal-Derived Proteins and Peptides on Blood Glucose Levels

Some cereal proteins and their digestive peptides exhibit the potential to regulate blood glucose levels, which is important for the management of diabetes and its complications. Proteins in common grains, such as wheat and buckwheat, and in legumes, such as kidney beans and soybeans, contain proteinaceous α-amylase inhibitors (α-AIs) that inhibit the breakdown of starch into reducing sugars, thereby mitigating postprandial glucose spikes. Indigestible cereal proteins function similarly to dietary fibers by adsorbing glucose and facilitating its excretion and stabilizing blood glucose levels. Moreover, peptides derived from these proteins can suppress glucose transporter expression in the intestine, thereby reducing glucose absorption. They also promote insulin secretion by inhibiting dipeptidyl peptidase-IV (DPP-IV), an enzyme that breaks down incretin hormones. Collectively, these properties highlight the potential of cereal proteins and peptides in functional foods for blood glucose management.

The cytochalasans: potent fungal natural products with application from bench to bedside

Covering: 2000-2023Cytochalasans are a fascinating class of natural products that possess an intricate chemical structure with a diverse range of biological activities. They are known for their complex chemical architectures and are often isolated from various fungi. These compounds have attracted attention due to their potential pharmacological properties, including antimicrobial, antiviral, and anticancer effects. For decades, researchers have studied these molecules to better understand their mechanisms of action and to explore their potential applications in medicine and other fields. This review article aims to shed light over the period 2000-2023 on the structural diversities of 424 fungal derived cytochalasans, insights into their biosynthetic origins, pharmacokinetics and their promising therapeutic potential in drug discovery and development.

Investigating Overlapping Immune-related Genetic Markers in Cholangiocarcinoma and Inflammatory Bowel Disease for Predictive Prognosis

This study aims to explore the common immune-related gene characteristics of cholangiocarcinoma (CHOL) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) to predict disease prognosis. By analyzing the gene expression data from the TCGA, GEO, and NGDC databases, differentially expressed immune-related genes (DE-IRGs) were screened, and a prognostic model was constructed. The results showed that CCR7, OSM, S100P, ACVR1C, OSMR, SPP1, and PIK3R3 were key immune-related genes, and their expressions were closely related to the occurrence and development of CHOL and IBD. Patients in the low immune risk score (IRS) group had more abundant antitumor immune cell infiltration, while those in the high IRS group had more macrophage infiltration. In addition, the model based on these genes had good predictive ability for the diagnosis and prognosis of CHOL and IBD, with an area under the ROC curve (AUC) value exceeding 0.7. This study also predicted potential small molecule drugs that might be effective for the treatment of CHOL, such as Umbralisib and Tamoxifen. In conclusion, this study provides new biomarkers and potential targets for diagnosis, prognosis assessment, and treatment of CHOL and IBD.

Traditional Chinese medicine for sepsis: advancing from evidence to innovative drug discovery

The global health burden of sepsis is immense, characterized by significant loss of life and high healthcare costs. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), with its over two millennia of clinical practice in China, has gained attention as a potential adjunctive approach for sepsis. Here, we evaluated TCM applications in sepsis management, highlighting both potential benefits and methodological limitations of existing clinical evidence. Although various TCM preparations have been evaluated for sepsis treatment, the vast majority lack robust clinical evidence. Xuebijing Injection represents a rare example that has demonstrated efficacy in a large-scale, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. In contrast, the evidence supporting other preparations such as Shenfu and Shenmai Injections comes primarily from smaller, single-center studies with significant methodological limitations. There is a clear need for more high-quality, multicenter randomized controlled trials to rigorously evaluate these potentially beneficial but currently insufficiently validated TCM preparations. The pharmacological effects and underlying mechanisms of some bioactive compounds derived from TCM medications have been elucidated, shedding light on the potential of TCM-based anti-sepsis drug discovery. We underscore the importance of continued research to better integrate TCM with modern sepsis management, paving the way for the development of evidence-based TCM treatments for this challenging condition.

The Role of Nutraceuticals and Probiotics in Addition to Lifestyle Intervention in the Management of Childhood Obesity-Part 1: Metabolic Changes

Childhood obesity is a growing global health issue. Its rising prevalence is linked to genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Obesity in children could lead to different comorbidities and complications with an increased risk of metabolic disorders, such as insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). First-line treatment involves dietary modifications and lifestyle changes; however, adherence is often poor and remains a significant challenge. Pharmacotherapy, while a potential option, has limitations in availability and can cause side effects, leading to growing interest in alternative treatments, such as nutraceutical compounds. Derived from natural sources, these compounds have different anti-inflammatory, antiallergic, antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, neuroprotective, antiaging, antitumor, insulin-sensitizing, glucose, and lipid-lowering effects. This review describes commonly used nutraceutical compounds, such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, polyphenols (such as resveratrol and curcumin), berberine, white mulberry leaves and others, and pre- and probiotics in the management of obesity, evaluating the evidence on their mechanisms of action and efficacy in metabolic comorbidities. The evidence suggests that the integration of nutraceuticals into the diet may positively influence body mass index, glucose metabolism, lipid profiles, and gut microbiota composition and reduce inflammation in obese individuals. These effects may provide future practical guidance for clinical practice, contribute to metabolic health improvement, and potentially prevent obesity-related complications. In this first part, we discuss the effects of nutraceutical compounds on insulin sensitivity and insulin resistance, T2DM, dyslipidemia, and MASLD in addition to diet and lifestyle interventions.

Melatonin attenuates Helicobacter pylori-mediated cholangiocarcinoma-associated fibroblast activation via modulating integrin/FAK signaling pathway

The interaction of Helicobacter pylori with cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) to promote cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) genesis is unclear. We aimed to demonstrate the effect and mechanism of H. pylori on function of CAFs in vitro as well as the role of melatonin as an anti-fibrotic agent capable of modulating CAFs. CAF cells were generated by co-culture of human fibroblasts (OUMS cell line) with O. viverrini-associated CCA cells (KKU-100 cell line). In the presence of H. pylori lysate, these CAF cells exhibited increased proliferation and migration. The interaction of CAFs and H. pylori lysate also promoted KKU-100 cell migration. Proteomic analysis revealed that the fibrosis-associated integrin signaling pathway was enriched in CAFs stimulated by H. pylori lysate. Expression of focal adhesion kinase (FAK), a molecule that plays a pivotal role in cell proliferation and migration and known to be a downstream target of integrin, was upregulated in CAFs exposed to H. pylori lysate. Interestingly, melatonin treatment significantly attenuated both proliferation and migration of CAFs by reducing FAK phosphorylation and its downstream PI3K and β-catenin. These results suggest that H. pylori promotes proliferation and migration of CAFs cells and possibly fibrosis via the integrin/FAK signaling pathway, which could be attenuated by melatonin treatment.

Asiatic acid and its derivatives: Pharmacological insights and applications

Centella asiatica (L.) Urban has been utilized in wound healing remedies for nearly 3000 years. Asiatic acid (AA), a pentacyclic triterpenoid characterized by ursane-type skeleton, serves as principal bioactive constituent of Centella asiatica, exhibits remarkable therapeutic potential across a spectrum of health conditions. Pharmacological investigations have revealed that AA exerts direct regulatory effects on a multitude of enzymes, receptors, inflammatory mediators, and transcription factors. This article systematically examines the therapeutic applications of AA and its derivatives in the management of neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, cardiovascular disorders, and infections. Additionally, recent advancements in the structural modification of AA are summarized, offering new insights for the development of low-toxicity, effective AA-based therapeutics and diagnostic agents. However, several challenges remain, including the paucity of clinical trials, uncertainties in dosage and treatment regimens, limited data on long-term safety and side effects, and poor bioavailability. Addressing these limitations is crucial for advancing AA-based therapies and ensuring their clinical applicability.

Comparison of the effects of metformin, citral, Cymbopogon citratus extract and silver nanoparticles of Cymbopogon citratus extract on oxidative stress indices and Nrf2 levels in experimental type 2 diabetes in rats

BACKGROUND

Diabetes, a metabolic disease marked by endocrine dysfunctions, significantly impacts oxidative stress pathways. This study explores the protective effects of lemongrass extract (LE), citral, and lemongrass extract-synthesized silver nanoparticles (LE-AgNP) against hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress by modulating the Nrf2 pathway, which is crucial for antioxidant responses.

METHODS

Various techniques characterized the nanoparticles, including ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, zeta potential analysis, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Seventy rats, divided into seven groups, were used for in vivo experiments. Type 2 diabetes was induced using streptozotocin (65 mg/kg) and nicotinamide (90 mg/kg). After six weeks, biochemical parameters such as total antioxidant capacity, malondialdehyde, Nrf2, and Nrf2 miRNA were evaluated in pancreas tissue and blood serum, along with serum blood glucose levels.

RESULTS

LE-AgNP significantly improved weight gain, reduced food and water intake, and lowered blood glucose levels in diabetic rats. LE and citral did not significantly alter these parameters but prevented the decline in Nrf2 gene expression. LE-AgNP showed a significant increase in Nrf2 gene expression compared to the diabetic control group.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights the potential of LE, citral, and especially LE-AgNP in mitigating oxidative stress induced by diabetes. LE-AgNP demonstrated superior therapeutic benefits, including improved oxidative stress conditions and hypoglycemic effects.

Characterization and identification of extrachromosomal circular DNA in cholangiocarcinoma

Extrachromosomal circular DNAs (eccDNAs) have gained attention as key players in cancer heterogeneity, potentially associated with elevated oncogene copy numbers in many cancers. While the presence of eccDNA in both normal and cancer cells is confirmed, its influence on gene-level alterations in cancer cells remains largely unexplored. This study delves into the genomic profiles of eccDNA in cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), an aggressive biliary tract cancer with extensive heterogeneity and diverse molecular alterations, using a modified long-read CircleSeq method. We reveal distinct eccDNA characteristics in CCA compared to non-tumor cells, focusing on genic components and chromosomal origins. Analysing read depth differences in oncogene-containing eccDNA; we identified potential eccDNA candidates that may be relevant for CCA biology. Subsequent bioinformatics analysis was performed using the established CReSIL tool, revealing distinct patterns of these oncogenes, particularly genes in the RAS/BRAF pathway, suggesting a potential functional role. These findings highlight the remarkable heterogeneity and diverse origins of eccDNA in CCA. This study establishes the first profiling of eccDNA in cholangiocarcinoma and paves the way for further investigation of its potential contribution to oncogene amplification and disease progression.

Healing from the Peel: Exploring the Bioactive Potential of Bananas for Gastric Ulcer Management

Bananas (Musaceae), herbaceous plants widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions, are traditionally used for their purported therapeutic effects on early-stage gastric ulcers. This comprehensive review provides an analysis of the bioactive compounds in bananas, with a focus on the influence of varietal differences and ripening stages. Researchers have identified key bioactive molecules in bananas, including phenolic compounds, carotenoids, and biogenic amines, predominantly located in the banana peel. Unripe bananas contain higher levels of phenolic compounds and biogenic amines, whereas ripened bananas exhibit increased carotenoid content. Additionally, in vivo studies have indicated that flavonoids, particularly leucocyanidin, exert gastroprotective effects by enhancing gastric mucosal thickness and increasing epidermal growth factor receptor expression, which promotes angiogenesis and re-epithelialization of the gastric mucosa, thereby protecting against ulcer formation. The findings reinforce the medicinal value of bananas, particularly in their unripe state, and highlight the importance of further exploration into their bioactive components for the development of natural therapies targeting gastric health.

Cancer-Type-Specific DNA Methylation Is a Source of Vulnerability in Liver Cancer Cells

DNA methylation, a pivotal epigenetic mechanism, plays a critical role in various pathological conditions, including cancers. Notably, cancer-type-specific DNA methylation can be advantageous for survival only in specific environments while being disadvantageous in others. To investigate the role of cancer-type-specific methylation as a vulnerability in cancer cells, we bioinformatically profiled genome-wide DNA methylation in 1165 human cancer cell lines across 25 cancer types. The number of cancer-type-specific methylated cytosines varied significantly by organ, with exceptionally high numbers observed in blood cancers. A total of 73 genes were identified as potential liver cancer-specific methylation-silenced genes, and four genes, ASNS, NQO1, FXYD5, and BCAT2, were subjected to experimental further analysis. Silencing of BCAT2 was found to contribute to the vulnerability of liver cancer cells to BCAT1 inhibition by gabapentin. Additionally, the silencing of the other three genes also rendered liver cancer cells vulnerable under different environmental conditions. These findings enhance our understanding of the biological and clinical significance of DNA methylation and provide a basis for developing diagnostic markers for cancer. (169 words).

Extracellular vesicles modulate endothelial nitric oxide production in patients with β‑thalassaemia/HbE

Thrombosis is a significant complication in patients with β-thalassaemia/haemoglobin E (HbE), particularly in splenectomised patients. The endothelium is a key regulator of vascular haemostasis and homeostasis, through the secretion of various regulatory molecules. Nitric oxide (NO), produced by endothelial cells (ECs), regulates vascular functions by acting as a potent vasodilator and an inhibitor of platelet activation. Decreased NO bioavailability, a marker of vascular dysfunction, could be a contributing factor leading to thrombosis. Microparticles or medium extracellular vesicles (mEVs) are associated with thrombosis and vasculopathy in various diseases. Furthermore, elevated levels of mEVs have been observed in splenectomised patients with β-thalassaemia/HbE and could induce the expression of coagulation proteins, inflammatory cytokines and adhesion molecules in ECs. However, the effects of mEVs on NO regulation by ECs is currently unclear. In the present study, mEVs obtained from splenectomised patients with β-thalassaemia/HbE had significantly decreased NO production in human pulmonary artery ECs without affecting endothelial nitric oxide synthase expression or phosphorylation. Decreased NO production was attributed to increased haemoglobin levels in mEVs from splenectomised patients, leading to enhanced NO scavenging. These findings highlight a mechanism whereby haemoglobin-carrying mEVs directly scavenge NO, contributing to vascular dysfunction in β-thalassaemia/HbE disease.

Multifaceted Therapeutic Impacts of Cucurbitacin B: Recent Evidences From Preclinical Studies

The most prevalent and bioactive cucurbitacin is Cucurbitacin B (CuB, C32H46O8), which is a tetracyclic triterpene chiefly present in the Cucurbitaceae family. CuB has a wide spectrum of pharmacological properties namely antioxidant, anticancer, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, hypoglycaemic, insecticidal, and neuroprotective properties, owing to its ability to regulate several signaling pathways, including the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 (JAK/STAT3), AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), nuclear factor (NF)-κB, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor-2/antioxidant responsive element (Nrf2/ARE), phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), Hippo-Yes-associated protein (YAP), focal adhesion kinase (FAK), cancerous inhibitor of protein phosphatase-2A/protein phosphatase-2A (CIP2A/PP2A), Wnt and Notch pathways. The present review highlights the medicinal attributes of Cucurbitacin B (CuB) with special emphasis on their signaling pathways to provide key evidence of its therapeutic utility in the near future.

Precision proteogenomics reveals pan-cancer impact of germline variants

We investigate the impact of germline variants on cancer patients' proteomes, encompassing 1,064 individuals across 10 cancer types. We introduced an approach, "precision peptidomics," mapping 337,469 coding germline variants onto peptides from patients' mass spectrometry data, revealing their potential impact on post-translational modifications, protein stability, allele-specific expression, and protein structure by leveraging the relevant protein databases. We identified rare pathogenic and common germline variants in cancer genes potentially affecting proteomic features, including variants altering protein abundance and structure and variants in kinases (ERBB2 and MAP2K2) impacting phosphorylation. Precision peptidome analysis predicted destabilizing events in signal-regulatory protein alpha (SIRPA) and glial fibrillary acid protein (GFAP), relevant to immunomodulation and glioblastoma diagnostics, respectively. Genome-wide association studies identified quantitative trait loci for gene expression and protein levels, spanning millions of SNPs and thousands of proteins. Polygenic risk scores correlated with distal effects from risk variants. Our findings emphasize the contribution of germline genetics to cancer heterogeneity and high-throughput precision peptidomics.

DSG2 attenuates gemcitabine efficacy through PTX3 in lung adenocarcinoma

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is the most prevalent subtype of lung cancer, often diagnosed at an advanced stage with poor prognosis and limited treatment options. The Desmoglein (DSG) family plays a crucial role in maintaining cell adhesion and tissue integrity. Upregulation of DSG proteins has been implicated in tumorigenesis, invasion, and metastasis across various cancers. However, the role of DSG in lung cancer, particularly as a biomarker influencing the efficacy of anti-cancer drugs, remains unclear. In this study, DSG2 was significantly overexpressed in LUAD tumor tissues and correlated with poor prognosis, as revealed by TCGA database analysis. Additionally, analyses of single-cell sequencing, KEGG, and GSEA multi-omics databases demonstrated that DSG2 modulates multiple oncogenic pathways, particularly the apoptosis pathway, with a strong positive correlation between DSG2 and PTX3 expression. In vitro experiments showed that DSG2 knockdown enhanced gemcitabine-induced apoptosis by downregulating the NFκB/STAT3/PTX3 signaling axis. Furthermore, adding recombinant PTX3 protein in DSG2 knockdown cells restored STAT3 activation, reducing gemcitabine efficacy, indicating that DSG2 contributes to gemcitabine resistance through PTX3-mediated mechanisms. This study identifies DSG2 as a critical mediator of gemcitabine resistance in LUAD through its regulation of the PTX3/NFκB/STAT3 pathway. The findings suggest that targeting DSG2 could enhance the therapeutic efficacy of gemcitabine in LUAD patients, offering a novel therapeutic strategy and biomarker for overcoming chemoresistance in this aggressive cancer subtype.

Molecular mechanisms and therapeutic perspectives of luteolin on diabetes and its complications

BACKGROUND

Extensive preclinical studies have established luteolin, a flavonoid with potent antidiabetic activity, as a therapeutic candidate for preventing and managing various diabetic complications including cardiomyopathy, nephropathy, and osteopathy. This systematic review evaluates current evidence regarding luteolin's antidiabetic potential.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study evaluates luteolin's efficacy in diabetes management through evidence synthesis, while critically assessing current research challenges and translational opportunities.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was conducted across Pubmed, Embase, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases, encompassing articles published between 2000 and 2024.

RESULTS

Luteolin is a naturally occurring flavonoid that has strong antidiabetic properties. It regulates intestinal microenvironmental homeostasis, lipogenesis and catabolism, and the absorption of carbohydrates. It also modulates nine diabetic complications by reducing inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and autophagy. Luteolin's potential nutritional and physiological benefits notwithstanding, attention must be directed immediately to its bioavailability, innovative formulations, safety assessment, synergistic effects, and optimal dosage and time for supplementation. In particular, clinical studies are needed to validate efficacy and safety and provide a reliable scientific basis.

CONCLUSION

Luteolin may act as a pleiotropic molecule targeting multiple signaling cascades to exert antidiabetic bioactivity.

Unlocking the Pharmacological Potential of Myricetin Against Various Pathogenesis

Myricetin is a natural flavonoid with powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential commonly found in vegetables, fruits, nuts, and tea. The vital role of this flavonoid in the prevention and treatment of various diseases is evidenced by its ability to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, maintain tissue architecture, and modulate cell signaling pathways. Thus, this review summarizes recent evidence on myricetin, focusing precisely on its mechanisms of action in various pathogenesis, including obesity, diabetes mellitus, arthritis, osteoporosis, liver, neuro, cardio, and reproductive system-associated pathogenesis. Moreover, it has been revealed that myricetin exhibits anti-microbial properties due to obstructive virulence factors, preventing biofilm formation and disrupting membrane integrity. Additionally, synergistic potential with other drugs and the role of myricetin-based nanoformulations in different diseases are properly discussed. This review seeks to increase the understanding of myricetin's pharmacological potential in various diseases, principally highlighting its effective mechanisms of action. Further wide-ranging research, as well as more randomized and controlled clinical trial studies, should be executed to reconnoiter this compound's therapeutic value, safety, and usefulness against various human pathogenesis.

The impact of an RNA-binding protein group on regulating the RSPO-LGR4/5-ZNRF3/RNF43 module and the immune microenvironment in hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer mortality. RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) are potential therapeutic targets because of their role in tumor progression. This study investigated the interactions between specific HCC progression-associated RBPs (HPARBPs), namely, ILF3, PTBP1, U2AF2, NCBP2, RPS3, and SSB, in HCC and their downstream targets, as well as their impact on the immune microenvironment and their clinical value.

METHODS

Tissue samples from human HCC, collected from 28 patients who experienced recurrence following postoperative adjuvant therapy were examined. The mRNA levels of RBPs and their prospective targets were quantified through RNA isolation and quantitative real-time PCR. Data from two public datasets were scrutinized for both expression and clinical relevance. Through Student's t test and logistic regression, HPARBPs were identified. Enhanced cross-linking immunoprecipitation (eCLIP) experiments revealed RBP-RNA interactions in HepG2 cells. For functional enrichment, Metascape was used, whereas CIBERSORT was used to characterize the immune microenvironment.

RESULTS

Public database analysis confirmed widespread RBP expression abnormalities in HCC (false discovery rate < 0.00001 and fold change ≥ 1.15 or ≤ 0.85), leading to the identification of 42 HPARBPs and core modules. eCLIP data analysis revealed the specificity of downstream target genes and binding site features for core HPARBPs (signal value > 3, P value < 0.01). Four core HPARBPs may bind to RNAs of genes in the RSPO-LGR4/5-ZNRF3/RNF43 module, affecting the Wnt pathway and HCC progression. Immunoinfiltration analysis revealed changes in the HCC immune microenvironment due to altered expression of relevant genes.

CONCLUSION

In our study, we identified core HPARBPs that might contribute to HCC progression by binding to RNAs in the RSPO-LGR4/5-ZNRF3/RNF43 module. Changes in the expression of HPARBPs affect the HCC immune microenvironment. Our findings offer novel insights into the regulatory network of Wnt pathway-related RBPs and their potential clinical value in HCC.

Impact of Porous β-Tricalcium Phosphate Microspheres on Curcumin-Loaded Brushite Bone Cement for Bone Regeneration

The current study aimed to create a modified injectable bone substitute (IBS) with improved osteogenic characteristics. To enhance the cement injectability and release properties of curcumin in vitro, we incorporated curcumin into β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) to create the composite supplemented with sintered porous β-TCP microspheres, which maintained good injectability with an initial setting time of 5.0 ± 1.3 min and a mechanical strength of 20.67 ± 1.3 MPa for bone cements. The differentiation potential of preosteoblast (MC3T3-E1) to osteoblasts was significantly boosted by incorporating curcumin, which triggered Col I, upregulated OPN expression, and boosted alkaline phosphatase activity. Bone regeneration was hastened after the in vivo implantation of curcumin-modified brushite (BR4P2C) cement into the implanted femoral defects, and the rate of cement disintegration was accelerated. As a result, the translational application of modified BR4P2C in preliminary research has the potential to serve as an IBS with curcumin, which has an exceptional ability to repair bone lesions.

Sangyod Rice Extract Attenuates Vascular Inflammation and Injury in a Rat Model of Diabetes by Modulating the Akt/MAPK Signaling Pathway

Our previous study has shown the beneficial effect of the ethanolic extract of Sangyod rice (SE) on lipid accumulation and insulin resistance. However, its effect on vascular inflammation has yet to be explored. The current study aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of SE in both in vitro and in vivo models, specifically examining its impact on LPS-induced inflammation in RAW264.7 cells and evaluating its efficacy in an animal model of diabetes mellitus induced by a high-fat diet combined with a low-dose streptozotocin. In the in vitro experiments, SE treatment effectively suppressed the LPS-induced activation of key signaling pathways, including Akt, ERK1/2, p38 MAPK, and NF-κB, which are known to play pivotal roles in the inflammatory response. SE was also found to reduce oxidative stress and the production of inflammatory markers in the LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. In the in vivo experiments, the administration of SE (500 mg/kg BW) and metformin (200 mg/kg BW) to high-fat diet/streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats effectively improved dyslipidemia, as evidenced by reductions in serum total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, and triglycerides compared to the untreated diabetic control group. Importantly, SE ameliorated the damage to the vascular endothelium and elastic fibers by downregulating the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress markers. Additionally, SE administration attenuated the upregulation of key markers associated with ER stress-mediated apoptotic pathways, with effects comparable to those observed in diabetic rats treated with the standard antidiabetic drug metformin. These findings suggest that SE possesses both anti-inflammatory and vascular protective properties, evident in both in vitro and in vivo studies.

The Role of Tetrahydrocurcumin in Tumor and Neurodegenerative Diseases Through Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Tetrahydrocurcumin (THC), a curcumin derivative, shows potential in oncology and neurology. It regulates NF-κB, reduces inflammation, promotes cancer cell apoptosis, inhibits tumor angiogenesis, and enhances antioxidants, aiding in treating inflammation-related cancers. In neurology, THC's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties protect neurons, reduce neuroinflammation, and support autophagy for cellular debris clearance, with its blood-brain barrier penetration offering a neuroprotective edge. Research on THC's therapeutic application must focus on improving delivery and bioavailability and confirming its clinical safety and efficacy.

Thinking Outside the Therapeutic Box: The Potential of Polyphenols in Preventing Chemotherapy-Induced Endothelial Dysfunction

The numerous side effects and adverse health implications associated with chemotherapies have long plagued the field of cancer care. Whilst in some cases a curative measure, this highly toxic intervention consistently scores poorly on quantitative measures of tolerability and safety. Of these side effects, cardiac and microvascular defects pose the greatest health risk and are the leading cause of death amongst cancer survivors who do not succumb to relapse. In fact, in many low-grade cancers, the risk of recurrence is far outweighed by the cardiovascular risk of morbidity. As such, there is a pressing need to improve outcomes within these populations. Polyphenols are a group of naturally occurring metabolites that have shown potential vasoprotective effects. Studies suggest they possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, in addition to directly modulating vascular signalling pathways and gene expression. Leveraging these properties may help counteract the vascular toxicity induced by chemotherapy. In this review, we outline the main mechanisms by which the endothelium is damaged by chemotherapeutic agents and discuss the ability of polyphenols to counteract such side effects. We suggest future considerations that may help overcome some of the published limitations of these compounds that have stalled their clinical success. Finally, we briefly explore their pharmacological properties and how novel approaches could enhance their efficacy while minimising treatment-related side effects.

Research progress on the mechanism of curcumin anti-oxidative stress based on signaling pathway

Oxidative stress refers to an imbalance between oxidative capacity and antioxidant capacity, leading to oxidative damage to proteins, lipids, and DNA, which can result in cell senescence or death. It is closely associated with the occurrence and development of various diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, nephropathy, malignant tumors, neurodegenerative diseases, hypertension, diabetes, and inflammatory diseases. Curcumin is a natural polyphenol compound of β-diketone, which has a wide range of pharmacological activities such as anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-oxidative stress, anti-tumor, anti-fibrosis, and hypolipidemic, demonstrating broad research and development value. It has a wide range of biological targets and can bind to various endogenous biomolecules. Additionally, it maintains the redox balance primarily by scavenging ROS, enhancing the activity of antioxidant enzymes, inhibiting lipid peroxidation, and chelating metal ions. This paper systematically describes the antioxidative stress mechanisms of curcumin from the perspective of signaling pathways, focusing on the Keap1-Nrf2/ARE, NF-κB, NOX, MAPK and other pathways. The study also discusses potential pathway targets and the complex crosstalk among these pathways, aiming to provide insights for further research on curcumin's antioxidant mechanisms and its clinical applications.

Therapeutic Potential of Cannabidiol Cyclodextrin Complex in Polymeric Micelle and Tetrahydrocurcumin Cyclodextrin Complex Loaded in Hydrogel to Treat Lymphedema

Cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocurcumin (THC) have demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity as well as generating new lymph vessels. We present the formulations and evaluations of CBD and THC loaded in hydrogels for the treatment of lymphedema to promote angiogenesis of lymph vessels and an anti-inflammatory response. Six CBD-THC hydrogel formulations were prepared and evaluated. The hydrodynamic particle sizes were 302.0-545.1 nm and the zeta potentials were from -58.80 to -33.63 mV. The hydrogel pHs were 6.43-6.54. The hydrogel formulations were non-toxic for both CBD (<25 µg/mL) and THC (<12.5 µg/mL). It was observed that high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid in hydrogel affected collagen production. Hydrogel formulations at 2 µg/mL of CBD and 1 µg/mL of THC induced human dermal lymphatic endothelial cell tube formation. CBD-THC hydrogel formulations showed a notable ability to induce angiogenesis, which suggested its potential effectiveness in promoting new lymphatic vessel formation. Moreover, CBD-THC hydrogels showed anti-inflammatory properties. Further research is needed to ensure these treatments effectively enhance lymphatic repair.

Alleviating effect of antioxidants on combined chromium and cadmium-induced neurotoxicity and apoptosis by activating the Nrf2-keap1 and associated pathway in Swiss albino mice

Chromium (Cr) and cadmium (Cd) are well-known cytotoxic and carcinogenic elements co-existing in the biosphere. Though their separate toxicities have been well researched, little is known about their combined effects, particularly with regard to the cellular stress response. The current study intends to explore the individual and combined toxic effects of Cr and Cd in the brain of Swiss albino mice in addition to examining the possible neuroprotective functions of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), biochanin-A (BCA), and phloretin (PHL), the naturally occurring flavonoids with antioxidant qualities. Mice were administered orally with Cr and Cd (75 ppm each) along with the i.p. dose of CoQ10 (10 mg/kg), BCA, and PHL (50 mg/kg each), respectively. After two weeks of treatment, an array of biochemical assays, histopathological examination, and gene expression analyses were carried out to evaluate the underlying mechanisms of the selected nutraceuticals. Our findings, which underscore the importance of this research, demonstrated that the administration of the nutraceuticals reduced oxidative stress and restored the antioxidant defense system by decreasing the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein carbonyl content (PCC) with concomitant increase in superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), reduced glutathione (GSH), and total thiol (TT) activity. A decrease in cholinesterase activity was also observed, along with the altered histo-architecture. The qRT-PCR analysis of mRNA expression revealed the upregulation of genes associated with antioxidant defense (SIRT1, Nrf2, HO-1, NQO1) along with the downregulation of the apoptotic markers caspase-8 and 3, respectively. The study highlights the neuroprotective effects of CoQ10, BCA, and PHL against Cr and Cd-induced oxidative stress via enhancing Nrf2-mediated exogenous antioxidant defenses and mitigating cellular damage and neural apoptosis. These results imply that these nutraceuticals may have therapeutic value in alleviating neurological disorders brought on by heavy metal exposure, with potential significant impact on future treatments.

Moringa oleifera and Blood Pressure: Evidence and Potential Mechanisms

The prevalence of hypertension is increasing worldwide, in particular in developing countries. Anti-hypertensive drugs are commonly used to treat hypertension. However, in developing countries, where access to health care is scarce and the supply system is poor, anti-hypertensive drugs may not always be available. Moringa oleifera is a plant widely found in developing countries, with its leaves, seeds, flowers, roots, and pods used both for nutritional purposes and in traditional medicine to treat various diseases, including hypertension. This review summarizes the evidence, both in animal and human models, about the antihypertensive effects of different parts of M. oleifera, discusses possible mechanisms of action, explores its bioactive compounds with potential antihypertensive properties, and highlights the limitations of its use as a hypotensive agent. Many preclinical studies attribute antihypertensive properties to M. oleifera, particularly the leaves. However, it is premature to draw firm conclusions, as there is a great lack of randomized controlled trials demonstrating its real efficacy. The mechanisms of action and the compounds responsible for the hypotensive effect have not yet been fully elucidated. Therefore, further clinical trials showing its efficacy are strongly required before promoting Moringa for therapeutic purposes. At present, Moringa remains a plant with nutritional and pharmacological potential.

Preventive and Therapeutic Effects of Sericin-Derived Oligopeptides (SDOs) from Yellow Silk Cocoons on Blood Pressure Lowering in L-NAME-Induced Hypertensive Rats

Our previous research has shown that SDOs derived from yellow silk cocoons have hypotensive effects on rats in chronic toxicity testing. This study investigated the potential preventative and therapeutic benefits of SDOs on hypertensive rats induced by L-NAME. The experiment involved nine rat groups: (1) normal control, (2) normal + 200 mg kg-1 BW SDOs, (3) hypertensive (HT) control, (4) HT + 50 mg kg-1 BW SDOs, (5) HT + 100 mg kg-1 BW SDOs, (6) HT + 200 mg kg-1 BW SDOs, (7) HT + enalapril (Ena), (8) HT + soy protein isolate (SPI), and (9) HT + bovine serum albumin (BSA). In the preventative approach, rats received 40 mg kg-1 of L-NAME with the studied substances during the four-week investigation. SDOs given at doses of 100 and 200 mg kg-1 BW demonstrated a significant decrease in systolic blood pressure (SBP) without affecting heart rate (HR). In therapeutic studies, 40 mg kg-1 BW of L-NAME increased SBP in the experimental groups over the first four weeks, resulting in mean SBP values above 150 mmHg. Administering 100 and 200 mg kg-1 BW SDOs and 100 mg kg-1 BW SPI significantly reduced SBP. However, SDOs at 200 mg kg-1 BW exhibited SBP closer to the enalapril group. In functional vascular tests, rats given SDOs at a dose of 200 mg kg-1 BW had the highest relaxation and lowest contraction percentages, like the normal control groups. The research found that SDOs may inhibit and manage hypertension in both healthy and hypertensive rats by safeguarding endothelial cells.

Evaluated NSUN3 in reticulocytes from HbH-CS disease that reflects cellular stress in erythroblasts

Hemoglobin H Disease-Constant Spring (HbH-CS) represents a severe variant of α-thalassemia characterized by a fundamental pathological mechanism involving inadequate synthesis of α-globin chains. This deficiency results in the formation of unstable Hemoglobin H (HbH) due to the aggregation of free β-globin chains, which subsequently induces an imbalance in oxidative stress within erythrocytes. This imbalance leads to an abnormal accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which in turn promotes lipid peroxidation, culminating in the production of malondialdehyde (MDA) and a significant depletion of glutathione (GSH). Concurrently, Nrf2 is translocated to the nucleus, where it activates the antioxidant response element (ARE) to mitigate cellular stress. Here, we report that NSUN3 (which, together with ALKBH1, maintains mitochondrial function through m5C→f5C modification) is abnormally overexpressed in reticulocytes from patients with HbH-CS, and an in vitro cellular model of NSUN3 overexpression/silencing was constructed using K562 cells, which have the potential for erythroid lineage differentiation and retain an intact cluster of bead protein genes. Functional assays indicated that the overexpression of NSUN3 significantly intensified the accumulation of intracellular ROS and MDA, led to a reduction in GSH levels, and diminished the overall cellular antioxidant capacity (T-AOC). This may be due to ROS accumulation resulting from inhibition of mitochondrial respiratory chain complex I, II, and IV synthesis through aberrant m5C→f5C modification. In addition, NSUN3 overexpression further exacerbates oxidative stress by inhibiting the phosphorylation of Nrf2 hindering its translocation into the nucleus and weakening the cellular antioxidant system. Moreover, we also observed that NSUN3 overexpression exacerbated intracellular DNA damage and inhibited cellular value-added activity, and silencing NSUN3 showed the opposite result. Our research offers initial insights into the molecular mechanisms through which NSUN3 modulates oxidative stress in erythrocytes via its role in epigenetic modifications. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the clinical management of patients with Hb H-CS.

Modulation of AMPK/mTOR Autophagic Pathway Using Dapagliflozin Protects Against Cadmium-Induced Testicular and Renal Injury in Rats

Cadmium is a widely distributed heavy metal found in the environment that poses serious hazards to human health. Dapagliflozin (DAPA), a sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT-2) inhibitor, exhibited antioxidant, antiapoptotic, and anti-inflammatory properties. Our data assessed the effect of DAPA against Cd-triggered renal and testicular impairment in rats, as well as the underlying mechanisms. Cd (30 mg/kg) and DAPA (5 and 10 mg/kg) were administrated by oral gavage to rats and continued for 21 days. DAPA attenuated Cd-triggered renal and testicular injury as shown by diminishing serum creatinine, BUN, and urinary total protein concentration in addition to increasing creatinine clearance, urinary creatinine, and serum testosterone. Moreover, it diminished renal and testicular histopathological alterations induced by Cd. DAPA stimulated the impaired autophagy flux as seen by significantly elevating the p-AMPK/total AMPK, decreasing p-mTOR/total mTOR ratios, and diminishing p62 & LC3 protein levels. Additionally, DAPA significantly lowered MDA content, increased GSH level and SOD activity. Moreover, it augmented the cytoprotective Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway. Furthermore, it attenuated renal and testicular apoptotic cell death via decreasing caspase-3 expression. Conclusion: Boosting autophagic events and combating oxidative stress and apoptosis by DAPA were engaged in alleviating Cd-induced renal and testicular impairment. This was accomplished by modulating the AMPK/mTOR and enhancing the Nrf2/HO-1 pathways.

From Gene to Plate: Molecular Insights into and Health Implications of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Grain Protein

Rice is a staple food crop widely consumed across the world. It is rich in carbohydrates, quality protein, and micronutrients. The grain protein content (GPC) in rice varies considerably. Although it is generally lower than that of other major cereals, the quality of protein is superior. GPC and its components are complex quantitative traits influenced by both genetics and environmental factors. Glutelin is the major protein fraction (70-80%) in rice. Rice protein is rich in lysine, methionine, and cysteine along with other amino acids. Globally, Protein-Energy Malnutrition (PEM) is a major concern, particularly in Asia and Africa. Additionally, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) including diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, and obesity are on the rise due to various reasons including changes in lifestyle and consumption patterns. Rice plays a very important part in the daily human diet, and therefore, substantial research efforts focus on the genetic characterization of GPC and understanding its role in the prevention of NCDs. The contribution of both rice grain and bran protein in improving human health is an established fact. The present study summarizes the different aspects of rice grain protein including its variability, composition, factors affecting it, and its industrial uses and more importantly its role in human health.

Whole exome sequencing of multi-regions reveals tumor heterogeneity in Opisthorchis viverrini-associated cholangiocarcinoma

The study examines Opisthorchis viverrini (OV)-related cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), a serious malignancy common in Southeast Asia. Through multi-regional whole-exome sequencing of 52 tumor samples and 13 adjacent tissues from 13 patients, significant intratumoral heterogeneity (ITH) and inter-patient heterogeneity are shown. Chronic liver fluke infection induces a distinct mutational landscape, with 48-90% of mutations concentrated in each region of the tumor. The average mutation burden is 95 non-synonymous mutations per area, exceeding previous CCA investigations. Critical driver mutations in TP53, SMAD4, and other genes underscore their significance in pathogenesis. Mutational markers elucidate mechanisms including spontaneous deamination and impaired DNA repair. Unique mutation patterns distinguish OV-associated CCA from other variants. Chromosomal instability in patient K110 signifies aggressive tumor behavior and unfavorable prognosis. Targetable mutations such as ERBB2 underscore the possibility for personalized therapeutics. These findings underscore the necessity for personalized strategies for treatment that target both trunk and branch mutations in endemic areas.

Mulberry Leaves-Derived Carbon Dots for Photodynamic Treatment of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus-Infected Wounds via Metabolic Perturbation

Antibiotic-resistant pathogens pose a significant global public health challenge, particularly in refractory infections associated with biofilms. The urgent development of innovative, safe, and therapeutically adaptive strategies to combat these resistant biofilms is essential. We present a novel, precise, and controllable photodynamic antibacterial carbon dot (B-M-CD) inspired by the natural antibacterial properties of the mulberry leaf and the bacterial targeting function of boric acid. This photocatalytic antibacterial agent exhibits good biocompatibility and utilizes its inherent antibacterial activities, along with photoactivated oxidase-mimicking activity, to generate reactive oxygen species for the eradication of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). By leveraging the reversible covalent binding between boronic acid groups and cis-diol groups on bacterial surfaces, we further enhance the targeted antibacterial activity. B-M-CDs effectively penetrate extracellular polymeric substances and demonstrate a precise photodynamic antibacterial effect, allowing for localized delivery aimed at biofilm inhibition and destruction. Metabolomic analyses reveal that B-M-CDs disrupt amino acid metabolism, protein synthesis, electron transport chain, and energy metabolism in MRSA. In vivo experiments confirm that this photocatalyst effectively treats MRSA-induced wounds with an efficacy comparable to that of vancomycin while also exhibiting high biocompatibility. This study represents the first development of a precise, photoactivated, controllable, and targeted carbon-based antibacterial nanozyme derived from the traditional Chinese herb, mulberry leaf, providing a novel strategy for designing intelligent antibacterial nanoagents and underscoring their potential as candidate therapeutics for conditions analogous to MRSA infections.

Pomegranate Juice Alleviates Preeclampsia Symptoms in an L-NAME-Induced Rat Model: A Dose-Dependent Study

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the dose-dependent therapeutic effects of pomegranate juice on preeclampsia symptoms using an L-NAME-induced rat model. Methods: Pregnant rats (n = 5/group) were assigned to a negative control group or groups receiving L-NAME to induce preeclampsia, with pomegranate juice administered at low, medium, and high doses from gestation day 7 to 20. Maternal parameters, including body weight, systolic blood pressure, urinary protein, and sFlt-1 levels, were monitored. Kidney and placental histology were assessed on gestation day 20. Results: L-NAME successfully induced preeclampsia symptoms, including significant maternal weight gain, hypertension, proteinuria, and increased sFlt-1 levels. Pomegranate juice administration alleviated these symptoms in a dose-dependent manner. High doses significantly prevented weight gain from gestation day 14, reduced the systolic blood pressure from gestation day 16, and lowered proteinuria and the sFlt-1 levels by gestation day 18, achieving values comparable to those of normal pregnant controls. Medium doses showed a moderate improvement, particularly in later gestational stages, while low doses had minimal effects. Pomegranate juice also enhanced placental health by increasing the labyrinth depth and reducing endocapillary hypercellularity, contributing to higher fetal and placental birth weights. The dose-response analysis indicated that the kidneys exhibited a stronger response to pomegranate juice than the placenta, suggesting different sensitivity thresholds. Conclusions: Pomegranate juice alleviates preeclampsia symptoms in a dose-dependent manner, significantly improving maternal weight regulation, blood pressure, and proteinuria. The therapeutic effects of pomegranate juice are attributed to its high phenolic content, which reduces sFlt-1 and improves placental function. These findings support pomegranate juice as a potential natural intervention for preeclampsia management.

Tangeretin Unravels Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease in Rats by Enhancing the IRS/Akt Pathway

Excessive high-fat diet (HFD) intake can precipitate metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). Tangeretin is a citrus flavonoid possessing many biological properties. We examined the impact of tangeretin on MAFLD and its underlying mechanism. Rats were given HFD plus 15% fructose solution for four months to produce metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome rats were administered 100 mg/kg of metformin or 25 mg/kg of tangeretin for the last four weeks. HFD-induced increased body weight, liver weight, adipose tissue weight, fasting blood glucose, serum insulin, total triglyceride, total cholesterol, and free fatty acids and reduced adiponectin and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in metabolic syndrome, which were alleviated by tangeretin (p < 0.05). Tangeretin stabilized alanine transaminase activity, liver catalase, and inflammatory and oxidative stress markers in HFD rats compared to untreated HFD rats (p < 0.05). Tangeretin reduced hepatic steatosis induced by HFD. Downregulation of hepatic insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1) and protein kinase B (Akt) protein expression in metabolic syndrome rats was recovered by tangeretin (p < 0.05). Metformin, an antihyperglycemic drug, produced comparable effects to tangeretin. In conclusion, tangeretin attenuates metabolic disorders and fatty liver induced by HFD in rats. The underlying mechanisms involve reducing oxidative stress, and inflammation and enhancing insulin sensitivity.