Neuronal guidance signaling in neurodegenerative diseases: Key regulators that function at neuron-glia and neuroimmune interfaces

The nervous system processes a vast amount of information, performing computations that underlie perception, cognition, and behavior. During development, neuronal guidance genes, which encode extracellular cues, their receptors, and downstream signal transducers, organize neural wiring to generate the complex architecture of the nervous system. It is now evident that many of these neuroguidance cues and their receptors are active during development and are also expressed in the adult nervous system. This suggests that neuronal guidance pathways are critical not only for neural wiring but also for ongoing function and maintenance of the mature nervous system. Supporting this view, these pathways continue to regulate synaptic connectivity, plasticity, and remodeling, and overall brain homeostasis throughout adulthood. Genetic and transcriptomic analyses have further revealed many neuronal guidance genes to be associated with a wide range of neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders. Although the precise mechanisms by which aberrant neuronal guidance signaling drives the pathogenesis of these diseases remain to be clarified, emerging evidence points to several common themes, including dysfunction in neurons, microglia, astrocytes, and endothelial cells, along with dysregulation of neuron-microglia-astrocyte, neuroimmune, and neurovascular interactions. In this review, we explore recent advances in understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which aberrant neuronal guidance signaling contributes to disease pathogenesis through altered cell-cell interactions. For instance, recent studies have unveiled two distinct semaphorin-plexin signaling pathways that affect microglial activation and neuroinflammation. We discuss the challenges ahead, along with the therapeutic potentials of targeting neuronal guidance pathways for treating neurodegenerative diseases. Particular focus is placed on how neuronal guidance mechanisms control neuron-glia and neuroimmune interactions and modulate microglial function under physiological and pathological conditions. Specifically, we examine the crosstalk between neuronal guidance signaling and TREM2, a master regulator of microglial function, in the context of pathogenic protein aggregates. It is well-established that age is a major risk factor for neurodegeneration. Future research should address how aging and neuronal guidance signaling interact to influence an individual's susceptibility to various late-onset neurological diseases and how the progression of these diseases could be therapeutically blocked by targeting neuronal guidance pathways.

Stress granules: Guardians of cellular health and triggers of disease

Stress granules are membraneless organelles that serve as a protective cellular response to external stressors by sequestering non-translating messenger RNAs (mRNAs) and regulating protein synthesis. Stress granules formation mechanism is conserved across species, from yeast to mammals, and they play a critical role in minimizing cellular damage during stress. Composed of heterogeneous ribonucleoprotein complexes, stress granules are enriched not only in mRNAs but also in noncoding RNAs and various proteins, including translation initiation factors and RNA-binding proteins. Genetic mutations affecting stress granule assembly and disassembly can lead to abnormal stress granule accumulation, contributing to the progression of several diseases. Recent research indicates that stress granule dynamics are pivotal in determining their physiological and pathological functions, with acute stress granule formation offering protection and chronic stress granule accumulation being detrimental. This review focuses on the multifaceted roles of stress granules under diverse physiological conditions, such as regulation of mRNA transport, mRNA translation, apoptosis, germ cell development, phase separation processes that govern stress granule formation, and their emerging implications in pathophysiological scenarios, such as viral infections, cancer, neurodevelopmental disorders, neurodegeneration, and neuronal trauma.

A single-cell landscape of the regenerating spinal cord of zebrafish

JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202602000-00046/figure1/v/2025-05-05T160104Z/r/image-tiff Unlike mammals, zebrafish possess a remarkable ability to regenerate their spinal cord after injury, making them an ideal vertebrate model for studying regeneration. While previous research has identified key cell types involved in this process, the underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms remain largely unexplored. In this study, we used single-cell RNA sequencing to profile distinct cell populations at different stages of spinal cord injury in zebrafish. Our analysis revealed that multiple subpopulations of neurons showed persistent activation of genes associated with axonal regeneration post injury, while molecular signals promoting growth cone collapse were inhibited. Radial glial cells exhibited significant proliferation and differentiation potential post injury, indicating their intrinsic roles in promoting neurogenesis and axonal regeneration, respectively. Additionally, we found that inflammatory factors rapidly decreased in the early stages following spinal cord injury, creating a microenvironment permissive for tissue repair and regeneration. Furthermore, oligodendrocytes lost maturity markers while exhibiting increased proliferation following injury. These findings demonstrated that the rapid and orderly regulation of inflammation, as well as the efficient proliferation and redifferentiation of new neurons and glial cells, enabled zebrafish to reconstruct the spinal cord. This research provides new insights into the cellular transitions and molecular programs that drive spinal cord regeneration, offering promising avenues for future research and therapeutic strategies.

Zebrafish optic nerve regeneration involves resident and retinal oligodendrocytes

JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202602000-00049/figure1/v/2025-05-05T160104Z/r/image-tiff The visual system of teleost fish grows continuously, which is a useful model for studying regeneration of the central nervous system. Glial cells are key for this process, but their contribution is still not well defined. We followed oligodendrocytes in the visual system of adult zebrafish during regeneration of the optic nerve at 6, 24, and 72 hours post-lesion and at 7 and 14 days post-lesion via the sox10:tagRFP transgenic line and confocal microscopy. To understand the changes that these oligodendrocytes undergo during regeneration, we used Sox2 immunohistochemistry, a stem cell marker involved in oligodendrocyte differentiation. We also used the Click-iT™ Plus TUNEL assay to study cell death and a BrdU assay to determine cell proliferation. Before optic nerve crush, sox10:tagRFP oligodendrocytes are located in the retina, in the optic nerve head, and through all the entire optic nerve. Sox2-positive cells are present in the peripheral germinal zone, the mature retina, and the optic nerve. After optic nerve crush, sox10:tagRFP cells disappeared from the optic nerve crush zone, suggesting that they died, although they were not TUNEL positive. Concomitantly, the number of Sox2-positive cells increased around the crushed area, the optic nerve head, and the retina. Then, between 24 hours post-lesion and 14 days post-lesion, double sox10:tagRFP /Sox2-positive cells were detected in the retina, optic nerve head, and whole optic nerve, together with a proliferation response at 72 hours post-lesion. Our results confirm that a degenerating process may occur prior to regeneration. First, sox10:tagRFP oligodendrocytes that surround the degenerated axons stop wrapping them, change their "myelinating oligodendrocyte" morphology to a "nonmyelinating oligodendrocyte" morphology, and die. Then, residual oligodendrocyte progenitor cells in the optic nerve and retina proliferate and differentiate for the purpose of remyelination. As new axons arise from the surviving retinal ganglion cells, new sox10:tagRFP oligodendrocytes arise from residual oligodendrocyte progenitor cells to guide, nourish and myelinate them. Thus, oligodendrocytes play an active role in zebrafish axon regeneration and remyelination.

GEMIN5 and neurodevelopmental diseases: From functional insights to disease perception

GEMIN5 is a predominantly cytoplasmic multifunctional protein, known to be involved in recognizing snRNAs through its WD40 repeats domain placed at the N-terminus. A dimerization domain in the middle region acts as a hub for protein-protein interaction, while a non-canonical RNA-binding site is placed towards the C-terminus. The singular organization of structural domains present in GEMIN5 enables this protein to perform multiple functions through its ability to interact with distinct partners, both RNAs and proteins. This protein exerts a different role in translation regulation depending on its physiological state, such that while GEMIN5 down-regulates global RNA translation, the C-terminal half of the protein promotes translation of its mRNA. Additionally, GEMIN5 is responsible for the preferential partitioning of mRNAs into polysomes. Besides selective translation, GEMIN5 forms part of distinct ribonucleoprotein complexes, reflecting the dynamic organization of macromolecular complexes in response to internal and external signals. In accordance with its contribution to fundamental cellular processes, recent reports described clinical loss of function mutants suggesting that GEMIN5 deficiency is detrimental to cell growth and survival. Remarkably, patients carrying GEMIN5 biallelic variants suffer from neurodevelopmental delay, hypotonia, and cerebellar ataxia. Molecular analyses of individual variants, which are defective in protein dimerization, display decreased levels of ribosome association, reinforcing the involvement of the protein in translation regulation. Importantly, the number of clinical variants and the phenotypic spectrum associated with GEMIN5 disorders is increasing as the knowledge of the protein functions and the pathways linked to its activity augments. Here we discuss relevant advances concerning the functional and structural features of GEMIN5 and its separate domains in RNA-binding, protein interactome, and translation regulation, and how these data can help to understand the involvement of protein malfunction in clinical variants found in patients developing neurodevelopmental disorders.

Hidden face of Parkinson's disease: Is it a new autoimmune disease?

Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder marked by the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons and clinical symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, and slowed movements. A key feature of Parkinson's disease is the accumulation of misfolded α-synuclein, forming insoluble Lewy bodies in the substantia nigra pars compacta, which contributes to neurodegeneration. These α-synuclein aggregates may act as autoantigens, leading to T-cell-mediated neuroinflammation and contributing to dopaminergic cell death. Our perspective explores the hypothesis that Parkinson's disease may have an autoimmune component, highlighting research that connects peripheral immune responses with neurodegeneration. T cells derived from Parkinson's disease patients appear to have the potential to initiate an autoimmune response against α-synuclein and its modified peptides, possibly leading to the formation of neo-epitopes. Recent evidence associates Parkinson's disease with abnormal immune responses, as indicated by increased levels of immune cells, such as CD4 + and CD8 + T cells, observed in both patients and mouse models. The convergence of T cells filtration increasing major histocompatibility complex molecules, and the susceptibility of dopaminergic neurons supports the hypothesis that Parkinson's disease may exhibit autoimmune characteristics. Understanding the immune mechanisms involved in Parkinson's disease will be crucial for developing therapeutic strategies that target the autoimmune aspects of the disease. Novel approaches, including precision medicine based on major histocompatibility complex/human leukocyte antigen typing and early biomarker identification, could pave the way for immune-based treatments aimed at slowing or halting disease progression. This perspective explores the relationship between autoimmunity and Parkinson's disease, suggesting that further research could deepen understanding and offer new therapeutic avenues. In this paper, it is organized to provide a comprehensive perspective on the autoimmune aspects of Parkinson's disease. It investigates critical areas such as the autoimmune response observed in Parkinson's disease patients and the role of autoimmune mechanisms targeting α-synuclein in Parkinson's disease. The paper also examines the impact of CD4 + T cells, specifically Th1 and Th17, on neurons through in vitro and ex vivo studies. Additionally, it explores how α-synuclein influences glia-induced neuroinflammation in Parkinson's disease. The discussion extends to the clinical implications and therapeutic landscape, offering insights into potential treatments. Consequently, we aim to provide a comprehensive perspective on the autoimmune aspects of Parkinson's disease, incorporating both supportive and opposing views on its classification as an autoimmune disorder and exploring implications for clinical applications.

Enhanced neurogenesis after ischemic stroke: The interplay between endogenous and exogenous stem cells

Ischemic stroke is a significant global health crisis, frequently resulting in disability or death, with limited therapeutic interventions available. Although various intrinsic reparative processes are initiated within the ischemic brain, these mechanisms are often insufficient to restore neuronal functionality. This has led to intensive investigation into the use of exogenous stem cells as a potential therapeutic option. This comprehensive review outlines the ontogeny and mechanisms of activation of endogenous neural stem cells within the adult brain following ischemic events, with focus on the impact of stem cell-based therapies on neural stem cells. Exogenous stem cells have been shown to enhance the proliferation of endogenous neural stem cells via direct cell-to-cell contact and through the secretion of growth factors and exosomes. Additionally, implanted stem cells may recruit host stem cells from their niches to the infarct area by establishing so-called "biobridges." Furthermore, xenogeneic and allogeneic stem cells can modify the microenvironment of the infarcted brain tissue through immunomodulatory and angiogenic effects, thereby supporting endogenous neuroregeneration. Given the convergence of regulatory pathways between exogenous and endogenous stem cells and the necessity for a supportive microenvironment, we discuss three strategies to simultaneously enhance the therapeutic efficacy of both cell types. These approaches include: (1) co-administration of various growth factors and pharmacological agents alongside stem cell transplantation to reduce stem cell apoptosis; (2) synergistic administration of stem cells and their exosomes to amplify paracrine effects; and (3) integration of stem cells within hydrogels, which provide a protective scaffold for the implanted cells while facilitating the regeneration of neural tissue and the reconstitution of neural circuits. This comprehensive review highlights the interactions and shared regulatory mechanisms between endogenous neural stem cells and exogenously implanted stem cells and may offer new insights for improving the efficacy of stem cell-based therapies in the treatment of ischemic stroke.

2,5-Dihydroxyphenylethanone: an anti-melanogenic bioactive compound isolated from Ganoderma cochlear

2,5-dihydroxyacetophenone, a natural product from the fruiting bodies of Ganoderma cochlear, can effectively and safely inhibit the production of melanin in zebrafish model. To achieve analogues with more significant inhibition, 9 analogs were synthesised and 13 analogues were purchased commercially. Among them, 14 compounds can inhibit melanin production, of which 5 compounds displayed the most significant inhibitory effects, with inhibitory rates of more than 80%, compared to positive control SymWhite®377 (phenylethyl resorcinol). This study elucidated the melanin-inhibitory effects of 2,5-dihydroxyacetophenone and its analogs, providing a theoretical foundation for their potential applications in anti-melanogenic reagents.

Transcriptome-wide study of mRNAs modified by m6A RNA methylation in the testis development of dairy goats

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is an important epigenetic modification in RNA, playing a crucial role in regulating the production and aging of animal testicular sperm. This study extracted mRNA from the testicular tissue of male goats before and after sexual maturity, generating a methylation map through preliminary experiments and methylation immunoprecipitation sequencing. The results showed that during the development of dairy goats, the expression levels of marker genes related to testicular development and methylation-related enzymes changed significantly. A total of 36,602 peaks and 11,223 genes were identified in the two groups, including 2989 differential peaks (427 upregulated and 2562 downregulated) and 1457 differentially expressed genes (833 upregulated and 624 downregulated). The abundance of m6A was positively correlated with gene expression levels. This study reports for the first time the mRNA profiles of m6A modifications across the entire transcriptome during testicular development in Guanzhong dairy goats, providing a new perspective for genetic improvement in goats.

Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals the heterogeneity and interactions of immune cells and Müller glia during zebrafish retina regeneration

JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202512000-00031/figure1/v/2025-01-31T122243Z/r/image-tiff Inflammation plays a crucial role in the regeneration of fish and avian retinas. However, how inflammation regulates Müller glia (MG) reprogramming remains unclear. Here, we used single-cell RNA sequencing to investigate the cell heterogeneity and interactions of MG and immune cells in the regenerating zebrafish retina. We first showed that two types of quiescent MG (resting MG1 and MG2) reside in the uninjured retina. Following retinal injury, resting MG1 transitioned into an activated state expressing known reprogramming genes, while resting MG2 gave rise to rod progenitors. We further showed that retinal microglia can be categorized into three subtypes (microglia-1, microglia-2, and proliferative) and pseudotime analysis demonstrated dynamic changes in microglial status following retinal injury. Analysis of cell-cell interactions indicated extensive crosstalk between immune cells and MG, with many interactions shared among different immune cell types. Finally, we showed that inflammation activated Jak1-Stat3 signaling in MG, promoting their transition from a resting to an activated state. Our study reveals the cell heterogeneity and crosstalk of immune cells and MG in zebrafish retinal repair, and may provide valuable insights into future mammalian retina regeneration.

Extracellular vesicles of Limosilactobacillus fermentum SLAM216 ameliorate skin symptoms of atopic dermatitis by regulating gut microbiome on serotonin metabolism

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a globally prevalent chronic inflammatory skin disorder. Its pathogenesis remains incompletely understood, resulting in considerable therapeutic challenges. Recent studies have highlighted the significance of the interaction between AD and gut microbiome. In this study, we investigated the effects of probiotic-derived extracellular vesicles on AD. Initially, we isolated and characterized extracellular vesicles from Limosilactobacillus fermentum SLAM 216 (LF216EV) and characterized their composition through multi-omics analysis. Gene ontology (GO) and pathway analysis classified LF216EV proteins into biological processes, molecular functions, and cellular components. Importantly, specific abundance in linoleic, oleic, palmitic, sebacic, and stearic acids indicating upregulated fatty acid metabolism were observed by metabolomic analysis. Furthermore, featured lipid profiling including AcylGlcADG and ceramide were observed in LF216EV. Importantly, in an atopic dermatitis-like cell model induced by TNFα/IFNγ, LF216EV significantly modulated the expression of immune regulatory genes (TSLP, TNFα, IL-6, IL-1β, and MDC), indicating its potential functionality in atopic dermatitis. LF216EV alleviated AD-like phenotypes, such as redness, scaling/dryness, and excoriation, induced by DNCB. Histopathological analysis revealed that LF216EV decreased epidermal thickness and mast cell infiltration in the dermis. Furthermore, LF216EV administration reduced mouse scratching and depression-related behaviors, with a faster onset than the classical treatment with dexamethasone. In the quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis, we observed a significant increase in the expression levels of htrb2c, sert, and tph-1, genes associated with serotonin, in the skin and gut of the LF216EV-treated group, along with a significant increase in the total serum serotonin levels. Gut microbiome analysis of the LF216EV-treated group revealed an altered gut microbiota profile. Correlation analysis revealed that the genera Limosilactobacillus and Desulfovibrio were associated with differences in the intestinal metabolites, including serotonin. Our findings demonstrate that LF216EV mitigates AD-like symptoms by promoting serotonin synthesis through the modulation of gut microbiota and metabolome composition.

Nuclear envelope and chromatin choreography direct cellular differentiation

The nuclear envelope plays an indispensable role in the spatiotemporal organization of chromatin and transcriptional regulation during the intricate process of cell differentiation. This review outlines the distinct regulatory networks between nuclear envelope proteins, transcription factors and epigenetic modifications in controlling the expression of cell lineage-specific genes during differentiation. Nuclear lamina with its associated nuclear envelope proteins organize heterochromatin via Lamina-Associated Domains (LADs), proximal to the nuclear periphery. Since nuclear lamina is mechanosensitive, we critically examine the impact of extracellular forces on differentiation outcomes. The nuclear envelope is spanned by nuclear pore complexes which, in addition to their central role in transport, are associated with chromatin organization. Furthermore, mutations in the nuclear envelope proteins disrupt differentiation, resulting in developmental disorders. Investigating the underlying nuclear envelope controlled regulatory mechanisms of chromatin remodelling during lineage commitment will accelerate our fundamental understanding of developmental biology and regenerative medicine.

Revealing the role of natural killer cells in ankylosing spondylitis: identifying diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets

BACKGROUND

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily affects the axial joints. Immune cells play a key role in the pathogenesis of AS. This study integrated bioinformatics methods with experimental validation to explore the role of natural killer (NK) cells in AS.

METHODS

Two microarray datasets, GSE25101 and GSE73754, were selected, and the scRNA-seq data were obtained from GSE194315 and Liu's research. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and functional enrichment analysis were performed respectively. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was conducted to identify key modules of co-expressed genes and genes involved in NK cell function. The diagnostic value of the identified key genes was evaluated using ROC curves, logistic regression analysis, and a nomogram. Real-time PCR (RT-PCR) was used to quantified the expression of genes. Statistical analysis was conducted using the R software package, and a p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Pathways enrichment analysis revealed the involvement of NK cell-mediated immune pathways and regulation of the innate immune response, indicating the crucial role of innate immunity, especially NK cells, in AS pathogenesis. The construction of a co-expression network revealed that the MElightyellow module was most relevant to the NK cell-mediated immune pathway. IL2RB, CD247, PLEKHF1, EOMES, S1PR5, FGFBP2 from the MElightyellow module were identified as key genes involved in NK cell-mediated immune response and served as potential diagnostic biomarkers for AS, with moderate to high diagnostic values based on AUC values. Further analysis using scRNA-seq profiling revealed the higher expression level of IL2RB, CD247, PLEKHF1, S1PR5, FGFBP2 in NK cells compared to that in other cell types. CD247, PLEKHF1, EOMES, S1PR5, and FGFBP2 were reduced expressed in AS patients as compare to control group verified by scRNA-seq data, CD247, EOMES, FGFBP2, IL2RB and S1PR5 were reduced expressed verified by RT-PCR, and PLEKHF1, S1PR5, and FGFBP2 was upregulated after TNF-α blocker therapy.

CONCLUSION

The study revealed the potential role of NK cells and identified IL2RB, CD247, PLEKHF1, EOMES, S1PR5, and FGFBP2 as key genes associated with NK cells in the pathogenesis of AS.

Specific enhancement of the translation of thermospermine-responsive uORF-containing mRNAs by ribosomal mutations in Arabidopsis thaliana

Auxin-induced xylem formation in angiosperms is negatively regulated by thermospermine, whose biosynthesis is also induced by auxin. In Arabidopsis thaliana, loss-of-function mutants of ACL5, which encodes thermospermine synthase, exhibit a dwarf phenotype accompanied by excessive xylem formation. Studies of suppressor mutants that recover from the acl5 dwarf phenotype suggest that thermospermine alleviates the inhibitory effect of an upstream open-reading frame (uORF) on the main ORF translation of SAC51 mRNA. Many suppressor mutations for acl5 have been mapped to the uORF conserved in the SAC51 family or to ribosomal protein genes, such as RPL10A, RPL4A, and RACK1A. In this study, we identified newly isolated acl5 suppressors, sac501, sac504, and sac506, which are additional alleles of RPL10A and the uORFs of SAC51 family members, SACL1 and SACL3, respectively. To investigate whether acl5-suppressor alleles of ribosomal genes broadly affect translation of uORF-containing mRNAs, we examined GUS activity in several 5'-GUS fusion constructs. Our results showed that these alleles enhanced GUS activity in SAC51 and SACL3 5'-fusion constructs but had no effect on other 5'-fusion constructs unrelated to thermospermine response. This suggests that these ribosomal proteins are specifically involved in the thermospermine-mediated regulation of mRNA translation.

A face-off between Smaug and Caspar modulates primordial germ cell count and identity in Drosophila embryos

Proper formation and specification of Primordial Germ Cells (PGCs) is of special significance as they gradually transform into Germline Stem Cells (GSCs) that are ultimately responsible for generating the gametes. Intriguingly, not only the PGCs constitute the only immortal cell type but several specific determinants also underlying PGC specification such as Vasa, Nanos and Germ-cell-less are conserved through evolution. In Drosophila melanogaster, PGC formation and specification depends on two independent factors, the maternally deposited specialized cytoplasm (or germ plasm) enriched in germline determinants, and the mechanisms that execute the even partitioning of these determinants between the daughter cells. Prior work has shown that Oskar protein is necessary and sufficient to assemble the functional germ plasm, whereas centrosomes associated with the nuclei that invade the germ plasm are responsible for its equitable distribution. Our recent data suggests that Caspar, the Drosophila orthologue of human Fas-associated factor-1 (FAF1) is a novel regulator that modulates both mechanisms that underlie the determination of PGC fate. Consistently, early blastoderm embryos derived from females compromised for caspar display reduced levels of Oskar and defective centrosomes.

Therapeutic potential of SOX family transcription factors in osteoarthritis

BACKGROUND

As the worldwide population ages, osteoarthritis has significantly increased. This musculoskeletal condition has become a pressing global health issue and thus, prevention and treatment of osteoarthritis have become the primary focus of domestic and international research. Scholarly investigations of the molecular mechanisms that are related to the occurrence and development of osteoarthritis have shed light on the pathological causes of this condition to a certain extent, providing a foundation for its prevention and treatment. However, further research is necessary to fully understand the critical role of the transcription factor SOX9 in chondrocyte differentiation and the development of osteoarthritis. As a result, there has been widespread interest in SOX transcription factors. While SOX9 has been utilized as a biomarker to indicate the occurrence and prognosis of osteoarthritis, investigations into other members of the SOX family and the development of targeted treatments around SOX9 are still required.

PURPOSE

This article considers the impact of the SOX protein on the development and inhibition of osteoarthritis and highlights the need for therapeutic approaches targeting SOX9, as supported by existing research.

RESULTS

SOX9 can contribute to the process of osteoarthritis through acetylation and ubiquitination modifications. The regulation of the WNT signalling pathway, Nrf2/ARE signalling pathway, NF-κB signalling pathway and SOX9 is implicated in the emergence of osteoarthritis. Non-coding RNA may play a role in the onset and progression of osteoarthritis by modulating various SOX family members, including SOX2, SOX4, SOX5, SOX6, SOX8, SOX9 and SOX11.

CONCLUSION

SOX9 has the capability of mitigating the onset and progression of osteoarthritis through means such as medication therapy, stem cell therapy, recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) vector therapy, physical therapy and other approaches.

Immunotoxicological disruption of pregnancy as a new research area in immunotoxicology

Immune mechanisms associated with normal pregnancy have only been being substantively investigated since the early 1990s. In parallel with the progress in that area of research, in the past few years it has become increasingly clear that several xenobiotics - including a variety of environmental chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and metals are considered to be both generally immunotoxic and specifically able to affect pregnancy. Among these, there is intense interest regarding potential effects from synthetic cannabinoids, immune checkpoint inhibitors, nanometals, and microplastics, with immunotoxic events that impact on pregnancy being shown for these agents. For instance, phytocannabinoids have been shown to interfere with reproduction in mice through effects on the endocannabinoid system. Because of effects of immune enhancement, as a requirement for regulatory submission, co-inhibitory immune checkpoint molecule inhibitors were also evaluated for effects on pregnancy. Similarly, because of increasing use and concerns about incidental environmental exposures, nanometals, and micro-plastics have also been examined for effects. Several studies in humans or mice showed that exposures to each during gestation increased the risk/rate of fetal loss, in part, by disruption of the placenta-associated immune system. Furthermore, signaling by endogenous danger molecules and/or impairment of physiological intercellular mediators may have contributed to the pregnancy loss. As there are clearly a variety of immunotoxic effects that can impact on a pregnancy, this review attempts to briefly introduce immune mechanisms associated with pregnancy as well as reasons for its loss, and proposes that 'immunotoxicological disruption of pregnancy' be accepted as a new research area in immunotoxicology.

Germ granule-mediated mRNA storage and translational control

Germ cells depend on specialized post-transcriptional regulation for proper development and function, much of which is mediated by dynamic RNA granules. These membrane-less organelles form through the condensation of RNA and proteins, governed by multivalent biomolecular interactions. RNA granules compartmentalize cellular components, selectively enriching specific factors and modulating biochemical reactions. Over recent decades, various types of RNA granules have been identified in germ cells across species, with extensive studies uncovering their molecular roles and developmental significance. This review explores the mRNA regulatory mechanisms mediated by RNA granules in germ cells. We discuss the distinct spatial organization of specific granule components and the variations in material states of germ granules, which contribute to the regulation of mRNA storage and translation. Additionally, we highlight emerging research on how changes in these material states, during developmental stages, reflect the dynamic nature of germ granules and their critical role in development.

Highly expressed cell wall genes contribute to robustness of sepal size

Reproducibility in organ size and shape is a fascinating trait of living organisms. The mechanisms underlying such robustness remain, however, to be elucidated. Taking the sepal of Arabidopsis as a model, we investigated whether variability of gene expression plays a role in variation of organ size and shape. Previous work from our team identified cell-wall related genes as being enriched among the genes whose expression is highly variable. We then hypothesized that the variation of measured morphological parameters in cell-wall related single knockout mutants could be correlated with the variation in gene expression of the corresponding gene (the knocked-out gene) in wild-type plants. We analyzed sepal size and shape from 16 cell-wall mutants and found that sepal size variability correlates positively, not with gene expression variation, but with mean gene expression of the corresponding gene in wild type. These findings support a contribution of cell-wall related genes to the robustness of sepal size.

ELAV/Hu RNA-binding protein family: key regulators in neurological disorders, cancer, and other diseases

The ELAV/Hu family represents a crucial group of RNA-binding proteins predominantly expressed in neurons, playing significant roles in mRNA transcription and translation. These proteins bind to AU-rich elements in transcripts to regulate the expression of cytokines, growth factors, and the development and maintenance of neurons. Elav-like RNA-binding proteins exhibit remarkable molecular weight conservation across different species, highlighting their evolutionary conservation. Although these proteins are widely expressed in the nervous system and other cell types, variations in the DNA sequences of the four Elav proteins contribute to their distinct roles in neurological disorders, cancer, and other Diseases . Elavl1, a ubiquitously expressed family member, is integral to processes such as cell growth, ageing, tumorigenesis, and inflammatory diseases. Elavl2, primarily expressed in the nervous and reproductive systems, is critical for central nervous system and retinal development; its dysregulation has been implicated in neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism. Both Elavl3 and Elavl4 are restricted to the nervous system and are involved in neuronal differentiation and excitability. Elavl3 is essential for cerebellar function and has been associated with epilepsy, while Elavl4 is linked to neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the ELAV/Hu family's role in nervous system development, neurological disorders, cancer, and other diseases.

Mapping intellectual structures and research hotspots of chronic wound in global perspective

Background

Chronic wounds included but were not limited to diabetes foot ulcers, venous leg ulcers and pressure ulcers. The challenge of difficult healing placed a heavy burden on patients and society. Our objective was to explain the healing process of chronic wounds and the development of treatment technologies in the past few years and to provide relevant, valuable information.

Methods

Our scientific publications were retrieved from the core collection of the Web of Science (WoSCC) database collection. The bibliometric visualization and analysis were performed by the software Biblioshiny based on R-bibliometrix. VOSviewer software and Citespace software were responsible for the validation of the results.

Results

A total of 8129 articles related to wound healing in chronic wounds were retrieved. The countries, institutions, and journals with the highest number of publications were the USA, the N8 research partnership, and the Journal of Wound Care, respectively. Armstrong DG and Dumville JC were the most influential authors in this field. The keyword analysis showed two key clusters of keywords, including "dressings" and "management". Trend topics analysis revealed frequent keywords in recent years, including "nanofibers" and "injectable hydrogels".

Conclusion

Our research was the first to reveal the cellular and molecular mechanisms and key clinical management strategies in the healing process of chronic wounds in the future through metrological and systematic evaluation, which may have important translational value in the future.

Target of Rapamycin is involved in root hair development in Phaseolus vulgaris

Root hairs are essential for nutrient acquisition and rhizosphere interactions in vascular plants. While the Target of Rapamycin (TOR) kinase is a well established regulator of growth and metabolism, its role in root hair development in Phaseolus vulgaris remains underexplored. In this study, we investigated the role of TOR in root hair morphogenesis using RNA interference (RNAi)-mediated downregulation of PvTOR and transcriptomic profiling. Microscopic examination of PvTOR-RNAi roots confirmed significant reductions in root hair length and density. Transcriptomic analysis revealed differential expression of 148 P. vulgaris homologs of Arabidopsis thaliana root hair-related genes, with 63 genes downregulated and 85 upregulated. Gene Ontology enrichment analysis indicated that these differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were primarily involved in cellular development, cell differentiation, and redox regulation. Upregulation of phosphoinositide metabolism genes, ROS generators, and cell wall-related extensins suggests compensatory tip growth responses under TOR suppression. On the otherhand, repression of key auxin signaling genes and cell wall-loosening proteins such as EXPA1 and ENDOGLUCANASE5 indicates a shift away from elongation processes. Protein - protein interaction network analysis highlighted phosphoinositide and ROP GTPase signaling hubs as major pathways affected by TOR inhibition, suggesting that TOR indirectly modulates cell polarity and membrane dynamics essential for root hair development. These findings provide further evidence of TOR as a central integrator of hormonal, metabolic, and structural cues during root hair formation.

Functional characterization of four soybean C2H2 zinc-finger genes in Phytophthora resistance

Soybean (Glycine max) is one of the most important industrial and oilseed crops; however, the yield is threatened by the invasion of various pathogens. Soybean stem and root rot, caused by Phytophthora sojae, is a destructive disease that significantly damages soybean production worldwide. C2H2 zinc finger protein (C2H2-ZFP) is a large transcription factor family in plants that plays crucial roles in stress response and hormone signal transduction. Given its importance, we analyzed the expression patterns of C2H2-ZFP family genes in response to P. sojae infection and selected four candidate genes to explore their molecular characteristics and functions related to P. sojae resistance. Subcellular localization analysis indicated that three ZFPs (GmZFP2, GmZFP3, and GmZFP4) were localized in the nucleus, while GmZFP1 was found in both the nucleus and plasma membrane. Dual-luciferase transient expression analysis revealed that all four ZFPs possessed transcriptional repression activation. Further transient expression in N. benthamiana leaves demonstrated that GmZFP2 induced significant cell death and reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation. GmZFP2 significantly enhanced the resistance to Phytophthora pathogens in N. benthamiana leaves and soybean hairy roots. This study provides insights in to the functional characterization of soybean ZFPs in Phytophthora resistance and demonstrates that GmZFP2 plays a positive role in P. sojae resistance in soybeans.

Integrated bioinformatics analysis identifies neutrophils and villous cytotrophoblasts infiltration characterized by BLC6 upregulation as associated with the co-occurrence of gestational diabetes mellitus and pre-eclampsia

BACKGROUND

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) patients are one of the important high-risk groups for the development of pre-eclampsia (PE). The pathogenesis of PE in GDM patients is not fully understood. This study aims to identify hub genes and pathways associated with the co-occurrence of GDM and PE.

METHODS

The matrix files of GDM and PE datasets were downloaded from GEO to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The common DEGs were predicted for functional analysis through GO and KEGG analysis. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed to determine the common hub genes for GDM and PE. Diagnostic hub genes were obtained through regression modeling and ROC analysis, and validated in publicly available datasets. The differences in immune infiltration between GDM and PE were analyzed. The expression and role of common hub genes in the co-occurrence of GDM and PE were explored through analysis of single-cell sequencing data.

RESULTS

A total of 104 DEGs were identified between GDM and PE. These common DEGs were found to be involved in mucosal immune response and the JAK-STAT signaling pathway. A total of 27 common hub genes were identified for both GDM and PE. BCL6, DNAH9, and SCG2 were identified as potential diagnostic biomarkers for PE. BCL6 showed high expression in neutrophils and villous cytotrophoblasts (VCTs) in both PE and GDM.

CONCLUSION

This study identified BCL6, DNAH9, and SCG2 as common hub genes in GDM and PE. BCL6 is expected to be a new target for the diagnosis and treatment of GDM concurrent with PE.

A fast in situ hybridization chain reaction method in Drosophila embryos and ovaries

The in situ hybridization chain reaction (isHCR) is a powerful method for visualizing mRNA in many species. We present a rapid isHCR method for Drosophila embryos and ovaries. Ethylene carbonate was added to the hybridization buffer to facilitate the hybridization reaction, and a modified short hairpin DNA was used in the amplification reaction; these modifications decreased the RNA staining time from 3 days to 1 day. This method is compatible with immunohistochemistry and can detect multiple mRNAs. The proposed method could significantly reduce staining time for Drosophila researchers using isHCR.

Investigation of testis proteome alterations associated with male infertility in Dcaf17-deficient mice

Disruption of Dcaf17 in mice resulted in male infertility with severe spermatogenesis defects. To investigate the molecular basis of infertility phenotype, we examined testicular proteomes of wild-type (WT) and Dcaf17-/- mice using a mass spectrometry-based approach. We identified 727 and 525 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in 3- and 8-week old testes of Dcaf17-/- mice, respectively, with an adjusted p-value cut-off of ≤ 0.05. Among these, 299 and 298 DEPs had fold change of ≥ 1.5 between WT and Dcaf17-/- testes at -3- and 8-week old, respectively. In the 3-week old Dcaf17-/- testes, 59.5% of the DEPs were up-regulated, while 40.5% were down-regulated. Similarly, in the 8-week old Dcaf17-/- testes, 83.9% and 16.1% DEPs were up-regulated and down-regulated, respectively. Functional annotation and network analyses highlighted that many DEPs were associated with key biological processes, including ubiquitination, RNA processing, translation, protein folding, protein stabilization, metabolic processes, oxidation-reduction processes and sper-matogenesis. Subsequent immunohistochemistry and immunoblotting analyses showed higher ubiquitin levels in Dcaf17-/- testes compared to WT, suggesting potential impairment in ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS) due to DCAF17 loss of function. Our data provide a basis for further work to elucidate the molecular function(s) of DCAF17 in spermatogenesis and male fertility.

Pharmacological inhibition of SUMOylation with TAK-981 mimics genetic HypoSUMOylation in murine perigonadal white adipose tissue

Post-translational modification by the small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO) is essential for cellular differentiation and homeostasis. Here, we investigate the role of SUMOylation in adipose tissue development using TAK-981, a pharmacological inhibitor of SUMOylation. Administration of TAK-981 to mice resulted in significant defect in weight gain and adipocyte atrophy in perigonadal white adipose tissue (gWAT) depots. Gene expression analyses revealed a marked downregulation of adipogenic genes, including Pparg, Cebpa, and Fasn. Our data thus indicate that TAK-981 treatment impaired adipogenesis in gWAT, consistent with prior findings that SUMOylation supports transcriptional regulation of adipogenesis and lipid metabolism. We also found significant infiltration of immune cells and efferocytosis in gWAT. Our results thus indicate that SUMOylation inhibition using a small molecule phenocopies genetic hypoSUMOylation models, highlighting its critical role in maintaining adipocyte functionality and immune environment. These findings provide evidence that SUMOylation is essential for fat accumulation in vivo. Furthermore, given that TAK-981 is currently under clinical evaluation for the treatment of solid tumors, our results underscore the importance of considering the potential unintended effects of SUMOylation inhibition on adipose tissue in patients.

Organoids at the forefront of global health: accelerated research and ethical implications in the cases of Zika and COVID-19

Bioengineering technologies are increasingly important in global health research, yet their applications beyond vaccines and diagnostics remain underexplored. Our paper examines the role of organoids - advanced stem cell technologies used to model human organs, such as lungs and brains - in the context of infectious disease research. Organoids became crucial during the Zika and COVID-19 outbreaks. These new model systems enabled rapid insights into pathogen behaviour. We analyse how the urgency of Zika and Covid-19 accelerated organoid research, tracing its rise and subsequent slowdown. Our investigation reveals that while organoid technologies experienced a burst of activity during these emergencies, their momentum has waned, with ongoing research predominantly focusing on diseases prevalent in the Global North. We argue that the uneven acceleration and subsequent deceleration of organoid research underscores a critical need for equitable integration of bioengineering in global health priorities, particularly in the context of pandemic preparedness. Our findings advocate for a balanced and inclusive strategy to enhance pandemic preparedness and address global health disparities effectively.

Unraveling the functional complexity of the locus coeruleus-norepinephrine system: insights from molecular anatomy to neurodynamic modeling

The locus coeruleus (LC), as the primary source of norepinephrine (NE) in the brain, is central to modulating cognitive and behavioral processes. This review synthesizes recent findings to provide a comprehensive understanding of the LC-NE system, highlighting its molecular diversity, neurophysiological properties, and role in various brain functions. We discuss the heterogeneity of LC neurons, their differential responses to sensory stimuli, and the impact of NE on cognitive processes such as attention and memory. Furthermore, we explore the system's involvement in stress responses and pain modulation, as well as its developmental changes and susceptibility to stressors. By integrating molecular, electrophysiological, and theoretical modeling approaches, we shed light on the LC-NE system's complex role in the brain's adaptability and its potential relevance to neurological and psychiatric disorders.

Effects of alpelisib treatment on murine Pten-deficient lipomas

 Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) hamartoma tumour syndrome (PHTS) is a rare disorder caused by germline mutations in the tumour suppressor gene PTEN, a key negative regulator of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT signalling. Children with PHTS often develop lipomas, for which only surgical resection is available as treatment. We investigated the effects of the selective PI3K-inhibitor alpelisib on Pten-deficient lipomas. After incubation with alpelisib or the non-selective PI3K inhibitor wortmannin, we analysed histology, gene expression, and Pi3k pathway in lipoma and control epididymal adipose tissue (epiWAT). Alpelisib increased adipocyte area in lipomas compared to epiWAT. Baseline gene expression showed higher levels of markers for proliferation (Pcna), fibrosis (Tgfb1), and adipogenesis (Pparg) in lipomas, while hormone-sensitive lipase expression was lower than in epiWAT. Following alpelisib incubation, target genes of Pi3k signalling and extracellular matrix factors were reduced. We confirmed Pi3k inhibition through detecting decreased Akt levels compared to control treatment. Human lipoma samples treated with alpelisib showed variable lipolysis responses, suggesting variability in therapeutic outcomes. We established an ex vivo model to study alpelisib effects on Pten-deficient lipomas. These results underscore the therapeutic potential of targeted PI3K inhibition in the treatment of PHTS-associated lipomas, particularly in cases that are inoperable.

Exploring novel therapeutic strategies: Could psychedelic perspectives offer promising solutions for Alzheimer's disease comorbidities?

The increasing prevalence of dementia within an ageing global population, combined with prolonged life expectancy, accentuates Alzheimer's disease (AD) as a multifaceted healthcare challenge. This challenge is further compounded by the limited therapeutic options currently available. Addressing the intricacies of AD management, the mitigation of comorbidities has emerged as a pivotal facet of treatment. Comorbid conditions, such as neurobehavioral symptoms, play a role in shaping the clinical course, management, and outcomes of this pathology; highlighting the importance of comprehensive care approaches for affected individuals. Exploration of psychedelic compounds in psychiatric and palliative care settings has recently uncovered promising therapeutic potential, enhancing neuroplasticity, emotional processing and connection. These effects are particularly relevant in the context of AD, where psychedelic therapy offers hope not only for mitigating core symptoms but also for addressing the array of comorbidities associated with this condition. The integration of this comprehensive method offers a chance to significantly enhance the care provided to those navigating the intricate landscape of AD. Therefore, the current paper reviews the intricate link between more frequent additional health conditions that may coexist with dementia, particularly in the context of AD, and explores the therapeutic potential of psychedelic compounds in addressing these concurrent conditions.

Effect of amniotic fluid on hair follicle growth

Purpose: Human amniotic fluid stem cells (hAFSCs) have shown significant regenerative potential in treating hair loss, wound healing, and tissue repair. This study aims to evaluate the effects of human amniotic fluid (hAF) on hair follicle (HF) regeneration and immune system modulation.

Materials and Methods: The hAF used was pooled, acellular, and gamma-irradiated to standardize its contents and enhance its stability. Both irradiated (FAFI) and non-irradiated (FAF) hAF were assessed for their efficacy and safety in promoting hair growth and modulating immune responses in a rat model of hair loss. The study examined HF regeneration, transition to the anagen phase, and macrophage polarization from the pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype to the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype.

Results: Both FAF and FAFI treatments significantly increased HF density, with FAFI exhibiting enhanced effects. Histological analysis demonstrated improved HF regeneration, increased M2 macrophages, and reduced collagen fiber deposition in treated areas. Gamma irradiation likely improved the efficacy of FAFI by stabilizing active components and inhibiting protease activity.

Conclusions: Irradiated hAF is a safe and effective therapeutic candidate for alopecia and HF growth disorders. These findings support further evaluation of hAF in clinical trials to validate its potential for hair regeneration therapies.

Alternative splicing of the Snap23 microexon is regulated by MBNL, QKI, and RBFOX2 in a tissue-specific manner and is altered in striated muscle diseases

The reprogramming of alternative splicing networks during development is a hallmark of tissue maturation and identity. Alternative splicing of microexons (small, genomic regions ≤ 51 nucleotides) functionally regulate protein-protein interactions in the brain and is altered in several neuronal diseases. However, little is known about the regulation and function of alternatively spliced microexons in striated muscle. Here, we investigated alternative splicing of a microexon in the synaptosome-associated protein 23 (Snap23) encoded gene. We found that inclusion of this microexon is developmentally regulated and tissue-specific, as it occurs exclusively in adult heart and skeletal muscle. The alternative region is highly conserved in mammalian species and encodes an in-frame sequence of 11 amino acids. Furthermore, we showed that alternative splicing of this microexon is mis-regulated in mouse models of heart and skeletal muscle diseases. We identified the RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) quaking (QKI) and RNA binding fox-1 homolog 2 (RBFOX2) as the primary splicing regulators of the Snap23 microexon. We found that QKI and RBFOX2 bind downstream of the Snap23 microexon to promote its inclusion, and this regulation can be escaped when the weak splice donor is mutated to the consensus 5' splice site. Finally, we uncovered the interplay between QKI and muscleblind-like splicing regulator (MBNL) as an additional, but minor layer of Snap23 microexon splicing control. Our results are one of the few reports detailing microexon alternative splicing regulation during mammalian striated muscle development.

Nucleolar ribosomal RNA synthesis continues in differentiating lens fiber cells until abrupt nuclear degradation required for ocular lens transparency

Cellular differentiation requires highly coordinated action of all three transcriptional systems to produce rRNAs, mRNAs and various 'short' and 'long' non-coding RNAs by RNA Polymerase I, II and III systems, respectively. RNA Polymerase I catalyzes transcription of about 400 copies of mammalian rDNA genes, generating 18S, 5.8S and 28S rRNA molecules. Lens fiber cell differentiation is a unique process to study transcriptional mechanisms of individual crystallin genes as their very high transcriptional outputs are directly comparable only to globin genes in erythrocytes. Importantly, both terminally differentiated lens fiber cells and mammalian erythrocytes degrade their nuclei through different mechanisms. In lens, the generation of the organelle-free zone (OFZ) includes the degradation of mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus and nuclei. Here, using RNA fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), we evaluated nascent rRNA transcription, located in the nucleoli, during the process of mouse lens fiber cell differentiation. Lens fiber cell nuclei undergo morphological changes including chromatin condensation prior to their denucleation. Remarkably, nascent rRNA transcription persists in all nuclei that are in direct proximity of the OFZ. Additionally, changes in both nuclei and nucleoli shape were evaluated via immunofluorescence detection of fibrillarin, nucleolin, UBF and other proteins. These studies demonstrate for the first time that highly condensed lens fiber cell nuclei have the capacity to support nascent rRNA transcription. Thus, we propose that 'late' production of rRNA molecules and consequently of ribosomes increases crystallin protein synthesis machinery within the mature lens fibers.

Graphene-polymer nanofibers enable optically induced electrical responses in stem cell-derived electrically excitable cells and brain organoids

Human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)-derived electrically excitable cells provide a unique window into development, but they remain electrically immature partially due to the lack of chronic stimulation. Here, we fabricated electrospun polymer nanofibers containing light-reactive reduced graphene oxide (rGO) as part of a new classes of on-demand, electrically active biomaterials to enhance cell function. Fiber size, stiffness, and electrical conductivity varied with rGO concentration, which impacted hPSC-derived cardiomyocyte and neuron responses; with acute light stimulation, cardiomyocytes exhibited increased, synchronous calcium handling. Long-term, daily nanofiber light stimulation improves brain organoid electrical activity and activates photoreceptor pathways. This work outlines a tunable method where electrical cell functions can be titrated with rGO fibers and light stimulation, and it suggests that repetitive light stimulation may provide a novel method for retinal differentiation.

Signalling pathways in a nutshell: from pathogenesis to therapeutical implications in prostate cancer

From tumorigenesis to the establishment of local or metastatic high-grade tumours, an integral part of the cellular lifespan relies on various signalling pathways. Particular pathways that allow cells to proliferate by creating a network of new blood vessels have been documented, whereas other pathways are primarily involved with a migration to distant body parts, partially through the process of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). This review will discuss the different signalling pathways, such as TGF-β, Cripto-1, Wnt pathways, Hedgehog, Notch and NF-κB pathways, and how they promote tumour initiation and progression by influencing diverse cellular processes and EMT in general and in benign and malignant prostate tumours. This review will discuss only the critical pathways. Therefore, many other types of signalling pathways which are related to prostate cancer will not be discussed. Possibilities for further investigation will be mentioned, as many underlying mechanisms involved in these pathways have potential as targets in future tumour therapy. This review will also introduce some novel clinical trials relating to the inhibition of signalling pathways and their clinical outcomes.

Identification of SNPs in the second intron of IGF2BP1 and their Association with growth traits in Nanjiang Yellow goat

Insulin-like Growth Factor 2 mRNA-binding Protein 1 (IGF2BP1) is a candidate gene of significant interest for modulating economically important traits in livestock and poultry. The second intron of IGF2BP1 has been implicated in growth-related traits, though its precise mechanistic role remains elusive. Initial resequencing analyses in our laboratory indicated strong selective pressures on the IGF2BP1 genomic region, prompting the selection and identification of several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Seven SNPs were mapped to the conserved region of the second intron, necessitating further investigation into their functional relevance and association with growth traits. In this study, 348 Nanjiang Yellow goats were analyzed, and the association analysis via the GLM program in SAS 9.4 identified five SNPs significantly correlated with growth traits. Notably, rs652062749(A > G) emerged as a critical locus influencing later-stage growth traits. Furthermore, strong linkage disequilibrium was observed among three SNPs, with the rs638185407 (T > A) variant markedly enhancing luciferase activity in H293T cells. Combination genotypes TTAACT, TTCCCC, and ATCACT were identified as superior for growth traits, offering theoretical insights for genetic co-breeding. This study underscores the potential utility of IGF2BP1 as a functional genetic marker in Nanjiang Yellow goat breeding programs.

Influences of physical stimulations on the migration and differentiation of Schwann cells involved in peripheral nerve repair

Peripheral nerve injury repair has always been a research concern of scientists. At the tissue level, axonal regeneration has become a research spotlight in peripheral nerve repair. Through transplantation of autologous nerve grafts or other emerging biomaterials functional recovery after facial nerve injury is not ideal in clinical scenarios. Great strides have been made to improve facial nerve repair at the micro-cellular level. Physical stimulation techniques can trigger Schwann cells (SCs) to migrate and differentiate into cells required for peripheral nerve repair. Classified by the sources of physical stimulations, SCs repair peripheral nerves through galvanotaxis, magnetotaxis and durotaxis. This article summarized the activation, directional migration and differentiation of SCs induced by physical stimulations, thus providing new ideas for the research of peripheral nerve repair.

Comprehensive circRNA expression profile and hub genes screening during human liver development

BACKGROUND

Understanding the expression of non-coding RNA in the liver during embryonic development provides important insights into liver diseases. Therefore, we investigated circular RNA (circRNA) roles in human liver development, an unexplored research domain.

METHODS

Using high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatics, we analysed foetal liver samples across developmental stages (7-20 weeks post-conception). Differentially expressed (DE) genes were identified and subjected to enrichment analysis using Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), and Disease Ontology (DO). Modular analysis was performed using the Search Tool for Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING), followed by construction of a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network using Cytoscape software. The key genes were screened using Molecular Complex Detection (MCODE). The mRNA levels of hub genes were validated using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR).

RESULTS

There were 645 DE circRNAs and 5,145 DE mRNAs between human livers at the three growth stages (HB, EH, and LH). It was found that the activity of circRNAs was boosted remarkably in the hepatoblastic stage. Enrichment analysis found they mainly involved in nervous system regulation of liver function, embryonic organ development and digestive system development. In addition, DE circRNAs were primarily involved in the PI3K-AKT, MAPK and calcium pathways, potentially contributing to adult liver diseases. Notably, only hsa_circ_001471 and novel_circ_017382 were simultaneously identified at all stages and were persistently downregulated. A co-expression regulatory network involving these circRNAs was established. Three hub genes (LGR5, FOXL1 and RSPO3) were identified from the PPI network of 167 genes and may play key roles in human liver development. The RT-qPCR validation results were in agreement with the sequencing data.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings provide the first insights into the roles and regulatory networks of circRNAs in human liver development, laying the groundwork for further investigations of molecular and signalling networks.

A novel strategy for the protective effect of ginsenoside Rg1 against ovarian reserve decline by the PINK1 pathway

CONTEXT

The decline in ovarian reserve is a major concern in female reproductive health, often associated with oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. Although ginsenoside Rg1 is known to modulate mitophagy, its effectiveness in mitigating ovarian reserve decline remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the role of ginsenoside Rg1 in promoting mitophagy to preserve ovarian reserve.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ovarian reserve function, reproductive capacity, oxidative stress levels, and mitochondrial function were compared between ginsenoside Rg1-treated and untreated naturally aged female Drosophila using behavioral, histological, and molecular biological techniques. The protective effects of ginsenoside Rg1 were analyzed in a Drosophila model of oxidative damage induced by tert-butyl hydroperoxide. Protein expression levels in the PINK1/Parkin pathway were assessed, and molecular docking and PINK1 mutant analyses were conducted to identify potential targets.

RESULTS

Ginsenoside Rg1 significantly mitigated ovarian reserve decline, enhancing offspring quantity and quality, increasing the levels of ecdysteroids, preventing ovarian atrophy, and elevating germline stem cell numbers in aged Drosophila. Ginsenoside Rg1 improved superoxide dismutase, catalase activity, and gene expression while reducing reactive oxygen species levels. Ginsenoside Rg1 activated the mitophagy pathway by upregulating PINK1, Parkin, and Atg8a and downregulating Ref(2)P. Knockdown of PINK1 in the ovary by RNAi attenuated the protective effects of ginsenoside Rg1. Molecular docking analysis revealed that the ginsenoside Rg1 could bind to the active site of the PINK1 kinase domain.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

Ginsenoside Rg1 targets PINK1 to regulate mitophagy, preserving ovarian reserve. These findings suggest the potential of ginsenoside Rg1 as a therapeutic strategy to prevent ovarian reserve decline.

Exploring the versatility of Drosophila melanogaster as a model organism in biomedical research: a comprehensive review

Drosophila melanogaster is a highly versatile model organism that has profoundly advanced our understanding of human diseases. With more than 60% of its genes having human homologs, Drosophila provides an invaluable system for modelling a wide range of pathologies, including neurodegenerative disorders, cancer, metabolic diseases, as well as cardiac and muscular conditions. This review highlights key developments in utilizing Drosophila for disease modelling, emphasizing the genetic tools that have transformed research in this field. Technologies such as the GAL4/UAS system, RNA interference (RNAi) and CRISPR-Cas9 have enabled precise genetic manipulation, with CRISPR-Cas9 allowing for the introduction of human disease mutations into orthologous Drosophila genes. These approaches have yielded critical insights into disease mechanisms, identified novel therapeutic targets and facilitated both drug screening and toxicological studies. Articles were selected based on their relevance, impact and contribution to the field, with a particular focus on studies offering innovative perspectives on disease mechanisms or therapeutic strategies. Our findings emphasize the central role of Drosophila in studying complex human diseases, underscoring its genetic similarities to humans and its effectiveness in modelling conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and cancer. This review reaffirms Drosophila's critical role as a model organism, highlighting its potential to drive future research and therapeutic advancements.

Proteomic analysis for busulfan-induced spermatogenesis disorder

BACKGROUND

Busulfan is the most commonly used drug for the treatment of chronic myelogenous leukemia and pretreatment for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, which can damage the reproductive and immune system. However, little is known about the protein expression profiling in busulfan treated testis.

METHODS

This research studies the proteomics for busulfan-induced spermatogenesis disorder. The model of busulfan-induced mouse spermatogenesis disorder was subjected to label-free quantification proteomics analysis. Clustering heatmap, gene ontology, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway and protein interaction analyses were performed and validated by molecular experiments.

RESULTS

The busulfan-treated mouse model showed abnormal testis morphology and reduced sperm number and testis weight. Testicular and sperm damage was most severe at 30 days after busulfan treatment. The busulfan-treated mouse testes were subjected to label-free quantification proteomics, which revealed 190 significantly downregulated proteins including lactate dehydrogenase A like 6B (LDHAL6B) and ubiquitin-specific protease 7 (USP7). In addition, the testis and spermatozoa in the epididymis progressively improved from 70 to 80 days after busulfan treatment, and that the testis weight and spermatozoa number gradually increased from 40 to 80 days after busulfan treatment. Western blotting revealed that LDHAL6B protein significantly increased at 10 days, decreased from 20 to 60 days, and then gradually elevated from 70 to 80 days after busulfan treatment.

CONCLUSION

We revealed 190 significantly downregulated proteins in busulfan-treated mouse testes at 30 days and indicated that 70 days is the cut-off point of spermatogenic recovery for busulfan-treated mouse testis, increasing our understanding of this reproductive disorder model. An increased understanding of busulfan's toxic effect will help to prevent and treat reproductive diseases.

Identification of deleterious non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms in the mRNA decay activator ZFP36L2

More than 4,000 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) variants have been identified in the human ZFP36L2 gene, however only a few have been studied in the context of protein function. The tandem zinc finger domain of ZFP36L2, an RNA binding protein, is the functional domain that binds to its target mRNAs. This protein/RNA interaction triggers mRNA degradation, controlling gene expression. We identified 32 non-synonymous SNPs (nsSNPs) in the tandem zinc finger domain of ZFP36L2 that could have possible deleterious impacts in humans. Using different bioinformatic strategies, we prioritized five among these 32 nsSNPs, namely rs375096815, rs1183688047, rs1214015428, rs1215671792 and rs920398592 to be validated. When we experimentally tested the functionality of these protein variants using gel shift assays, all five (Y154H, R160W, R184C, G204D, and C206F) resulted in a dramatic reduction in RNA binding compared to the WT protein. To understand the mechanistic effect of these variants on the protein/RNA interaction, we employed DUET, DynaMut and PyMOL to investigate structural changes in the protein. Additionally, we conducted Molecular Docking and Molecular Dynamics Simulations to fine tune the active behaviour of this biomolecular system at an atomic level. Our results propose atomic explanations for the impact of each of these five genetic variants identified.

Brief biology and pathophysiology of Tekt bundles

Tektins, a family of microtubule-stabilizing proteins, are critical for cilia and flagella assembly in mammals. They maintain doublet microtubule stability and ciliary/flagellar motility. Loss of Tekt1-5 causes microtubule instability, impaired motility, and diseases like infertility, retinal degeneration, Mainzer-Saldino syndrome, and diabetic nephropathy. Pathophysiological stimuli regulate Tektin expression through transcriptional, posttranscriptional, translational, and posttranslational modifications. This review summarizes the latest findings on Tektin functions and their role in diseases.

Exploring the key ingredients and mechanisms of Banxia Xiexin decoction for the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome based on network pharmacology and experimental validation

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate the key bioactive constituents and polypharmacological mechanisms of Banxia Xiexin Decoction (BXD) against polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) through integrated network pharmacology and experimental validation.

METHODS

Network pharmacology was used to determine the key ingredients, potential targets and signaling pathways. 3-week-old female mice were injected subcutaneously with DHEA (6mg/100g body weight) daily to construct a PCOS model and administered different doses BXD and its key ingredients for intervention. Ovarian pathology, vaginal smears, oxidative stress-related indicators, and hub genes were tested to evaluate its therapeutic effects.

RESULTS

We identified 3 key ingredients and 99 potential targets for BXD treatment of PCOS. Biological functions of these targets were mainly enriched in oxidative stress, hormone response and apoptosis. KEGG analysis showed they were mainly involved in signaling pathways such as PI3K-AKT, MAPK, HIF-1 and IL17. By PPI and algorithmic analysis, we identified 8 hub genes, 5 of which (JUN, MAPK1, MAPK3, FOS, TP53) were related to oxidative stress. Further analysis indicated that quercetin, glycyrrhetinic acid A and naringenin are the three key ingredients of BXD, and they have superior binding effects on the hub genes. Animal experiments demonstrated that BXD and its three key ingredients significantly ameliorated the PCOS symptoms, oxidative stress-related indicators and the expression of hub genes.

CONCLUSIONS

Five oxidative stress-related hub targets of BXD for PCOS were identified, including FOS, JUN, MAPK3, TP53 and HSP90AA1, while three key ingredients of BXD, quercetin, glycyrrhetinic acid A and naringenin, were uncovered.

Stage-specific modulation of Drosophila gene expression with muscle GAL4 promoters

The bipartite GAL4/UAS system is the most widely used method for targeted gene expression in Drosophila melanogaster and facilitates rapid in vivo genetic experimentation. Defining precise gene expression patterns for tissues and/or cell types under GAL4 control will continue to evolve to suit experimental needs. However, the precise spatial and temporal expression patterns for some commonly used muscle tissue promoters are still unclear. This missing information limits the precise timing of experiments during development. Here, we focus on three muscle-enriched GAL4 drivers (Mef2-GAL4, C57-GAL4 and G7-GAL4) to better inform selection of the most appropriate muscle promoter for experimental needs. Specifically, C57-GAL4 and G7-GAL4 turn on in the first or second instar larval stages, respectively, and can be used to bypass myogenesis for studies of muscle function after development.

The implication of non-AUG-initiated N-terminally extended proteoforms in cancer

Dysregulated translation is a hallmark of cancer, and recent genome-wide studies in tumour cells have uncovered widespread translation of non-canonical reading frames that often initiate at non-AUG codons. If an upstream non-canonical start site is located within a frame with an annotated coding sequence (CDS), such translation events can lead to the production of proteoforms with altered N-termini (PANTs). Certain examples of PANTs from oncogenes (e.g. c-MYC) and tumour suppressors (e.g. PTEN) have been previously linked to cancer. We have performed a systematic computational analysis on recently identified non-AUG initiation-derived N-terminal extensions of cancer-associated proteins, and we discuss how these extended proteoforms may acquire new oncogenic properties. We identified a loss of stability for the N-terminally extended proteoforms of oncogenes TCF-4 and SOX2. Furthermore, we discovered likely functional short linear motifs within the N-terminal extensions of oncogenes and tumour suppressors (SOX2, SUFU, SFPQ, TOP1 and SPEN/SHARP) that could provide an explanation for previously described functionalities or interactions of the proteins. In all, we identify novel cases where PANTs likely show different localization, functions, partner binding or turnover rates compared to the annotated proteoforms. Therefore, we propose that alterations in the stringency of translation initiation, often seen under conditions of cellular stress, may result in reprogramming of translation to generate novel PANTs that influence cancer progression.

Insight into Cys and its derivatives metabolism in living system with 3D-printed portable smartphone platform via multifunctional fluorescent probe

Cysteine (Cys) is a crucial biological thiol that facilitates broad range of biological circumstances and health conditions. Especially the aberrant Cys level in human serum is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. What more, Cys metabolism (Cys to SO2) is typically connected with illnesses such as lung cancer, and are recognized as biomarker. Herein, an innovative multifunctional fluorescent probe was rudimentarily designed and utilized, not only for realizing real-time visualization of the metabolism of Cys to SO2 in tumors through two self-sufficient channels without spectral cross-interference, but also for sensitive, real-time, on-site, and quantitative visual recognition of Cys in human serum through 3D-printed smartphone sensing platform. In addition, the probe's unique response to Cys/HSO3- in distinct spectral behaviors, which have been characterized theoretically using UV-Vis, fluorescence, DFT calculations, and 1H NMR. More importantly, the methodology reported herein enables an available pathway for real-time/on-site and visual determination of Cys in human serum and is expected to extend the use of potential cardiovascular disease biomarker studies for initial monitoring and clinical diagnosis.