Unique methotrexate polyglutamates distributions in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of rheumatoid arthritis patients: Development and validation of a UPLC-MS/MS method

Methotrexate is pivotal in treating immune-mediated inflammatory diseases. Intracellularly, methotrexate is metabolized to methotrexate-polyglutamates (MTX-PG1-7), comprising up to six additional glutamate moieties, crucial for cellular retention and therapeutic efficacy. Hitherto, quantification of MTX-PG1-6 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from methotrexate-treated patients was challenging due to their low abundance in blood and matrix effects. We present a robust validated UPLC-MS/MS method to quantify individual MTX-PG1-6 in PBMCs. Stable-isotope labelled internal standard mixture of MTX-PG1-6 was added to 5 million PBMCs, followed by deproteinization with perchloric acid, and additional sample clean-up using solid phase extraction columns. MTX-PG1-6 were detected and quantified using UPLC-MS/MS. The method was validated for lower limit of quantification (LLOQ), linearity, carryover, recovery, matrix effects, precision and stability. We assessed MTX-PG1-6 in PBMCs derived from five methotrexate-treated rheumatoid arthritis patients. For all MTX-PG1-6, LLOQs were < 1 fmol-MTX-PG1-6/million cells with linearities R2 > 0.995. The recoveries, carryover and stability were acceptable and no matrix effects were observed. The intraday and interday precision %CVs of quality controls ranged from 2.7 % to 11.4 % and 3.5-14.9 % respectively. Interday precision using nine PBMCs aliquots from a single MTX-treated patient aligned similarly (%CV <15 %). In patient-derived PBMC samples, MTX-PG1 was the highest, with decreasing concentrations of MTX-PG2 to MTX-PG5. No signal for MTX-PG6 was detected in the patient samples. We validated a new UPLC-MS/MS method to quantify MTX-PG1-6 in PBMCs, thus facilitating PBMC-based therapeutic drug monitoring studies and understand associations between MTX-PG1-6 concentration and therapy efficacy or adherence.

A new perspective on the simultaneous removal of nitrogen, tetracycline, and phosphorus by moving bed biofilm reactor under co-metabolic substances

With the burgeoning growth of aquaculture industry, high concentration of NH4+-N, phosphorus and tetracycline are the prevalent pollutants in aquaculture wastewater posing a significant health risk to aquatic organisms. Therefore, an effective method for treating aquaculture wastewater should be urgently explored. Simultaneous removal of NH4+-N, phosphorus, tetracycline, and chemical oxygen demand (COD) in aquaculture wastewater was developed by moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) under co-metabolic substances. The result showed that co-metabolism substances had different effects on MBBR performance, and 79.4 % of tetracycline, 68.2 % of NH4+-N, 61.3 % of total nitrogen, 88.3 % of COD, and 38.1 % of total phosphorus (TP) were synchronously removed with sodium acetate as a co-metabolic carbon source. Protein (PN), polysaccharide (PS), and electron transfer system activity were used to evaluate the MBBR performances, suggesting that PN/PS ratio was 1.48, 0.91, 1.07, 3.58, and 0.79 at phases I-V. Additionally, a mode of tetracycline degradation and TP removal was explored, and the cell apoptosis was evaluated by flow cytometry. The result suggested that 74 %, 83 %, and 83 % of tetracycline were degraded by extracellular extracts, intracellular extracts, and cell debris, and there was no difference between extracts and non-enzyme in TP removal. The ratio of viable and dead cells from biofilm reached 33.3 % and 7.68 % with sodium acetate as a co-metabolic carbon source. Furthermore, Proteobacteria and Bacteroidetes in biofilm were identified as the dominant phyla for tetracycline and nutrients removal. This study provides a new strategy for tetracycline and nutrients removal from aquaculture wastewater through co-metabolism.

The inflammasome adaptor pycard is essential for immunity against Mycobacterium marinum infection in adult zebrafish

Inflammasomes regulate the host response to intracellular pathogens including mycobacteria. We have previously shown that the course of Mycobacterium marinum infection in adult zebrafish (Danio rerio) mimics the course of tuberculosis in human. To investigate the role of the inflammasome adaptor pycard in zebrafish M. marinum infection, we produced two zebrafish knockout mutant lines for the pycard gene with CRISPR/Cas9 mutagenesis. Although the zebrafish larvae lacking pycard developed normally and had unaltered resistance against M. marinum, the loss of pycard led to impaired survival and increased bacterial burden in the adult zebrafish. Based on histology, immune cell aggregates, granulomas, were larger in pycard-deficient fish than in wild-type controls. Transcriptome analysis with RNA sequencing of a zebrafish haematopoietic tissue, kidney, suggested a role for pycard in neutrophil-mediated defence, haematopoiesis and myelopoiesis during infection. Transcriptome analysis of fluorescently labelled, pycard-deficient kidney neutrophils identified genes that are associated with compromised resistance, supporting the importance of pycard for neutrophil-mediated immunity against M. marinum. Our results indicate that pycard is essential for resistance against mycobacteria in adult zebrafish.

Lymphatic chain gradients regulate the magnitude and heterogeneity of T cell responses to vaccination

Upon activation, T cells proliferate and differentiate into diverse populations, including highly differentiated effector and memory precursor subsets. Initial diversification is influenced by signals sensed during T cell priming within lymphoid tissues. However, the rules governing how cellular heterogeneity is spatially encoded in vivo remain unclear. Here, we show that immunization establishes concentration gradients of antigens and inflammation across interconnected chains of draining lymph nodes (IC-LNs). While T cells are activated at all sites, individual IC-LNs elicit divergent responses: proximal IC-LNs favor the generation of effector cells, whereas distal IC-LNs promote formation of central memory precursor cells. Although both proximal and distal sites contribute to anamnestic responses, T cells from proximal IC-LNs preferentially provide early effector responses at inflamed tissues. Conversely, T cells from distal IC-LNs demonstrate an enhanced capacity to generate long-lasting responses to chronic antigens in cancer settings, including after checkpoint blockade therapy. Therefore, formation of spatial gradients across lymphatic chains following vaccination regulates the magnitude, heterogeneity, and longevity of T cell responses.

RORγt eTACs mediate oral tolerance and Treg induction

The immune system must distinguish pathogens from innocuous dietary antigens, but the precise mechanisms and cellular actors remain unclear. Here, we demonstrate that RORγt-lineage APCs are required for oral tolerance. Using lineage tracing and single-cell sequencing, we show these APCs consist of three principal populations: type 3 innate lymphoid cells (ILC3s), RORγt-lineage dendritic cells, and cells expressing Aire called RORγt eTACs (R-eTACs)-also known as Janus or Thetis cells. We show that R-eTACs, but not ILC3s, are required for oral tolerance induction. We find R-eTACs are of probable myeloid origin and uniquely express integrin β8 (Itgb8). Both MHCII and Itgb8 expression in RORγt-lineage cells are necessary to induce food-specific regulatory T cells. Mice lacking R-eTACs or with deletion of MHCII or Itgb8 in the RORγt lineage fail to generate Tregs and instead develop a T-follicular helper response with elevated antigen-specific antibodies. These findings establish R-eTACs as critical mediators of oral tolerance and suggest novel cellular targets to modulate immune tolerance.

Immunopathological and microbial signatures of inflammatory bowel disease in partial RAG deficiency

Partial RAG deficiency (pRD) can manifest with systemic and tissue-specific immune dysregulation, with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in 15% of the patients. We aimed at identifying the immunopathological and microbial signatures associated with IBD in patients with pRD and in a mouse model of pRD (Rag1w/w) with spontaneous development of colitis. pRD patients with IBD and Rag1w/w mice showed a systemic and colonic Th1/Th17 inflammatory signature. Restriction of fecal microbial diversity, abundance of pathogenic bacteria, and depletion of microbial species producing short-chain fatty acid were observed, which were associated with impaired induction of lamina propria peripheral Treg cells in Rag1w/w mice. The use of vedolizumab in Rag1w/w mice and of ustekinumab in a pRD patient were ineffective. Antibiotics ameliorated gut inflammation in Rag1w/w mice, but only bone marrow transplantation (BMT) rescued the immunopathological and microbial signatures. Our findings shed new light in the pathophysiology of gut inflammation in pRD and establish a curative role for BMT to resolve the disease phenotype.

Neonatal microbiota colonization primes maturation of goblet cell-mediated protection in the pre-weaning colon

Regulated host-microbe interactions are a critical aspect of lifelong health. Colonic goblet cells protect from microorganisms via the generation of a mucus barrier structure. Bacteria-sensing sentinel goblet cells provide secondary protection by orchestrating mucus secretion when microbes breach the mucus barrier. Mucus deficiencies in germ-free mice implicate a role for the microbiota in programming barrier generation, but its natural ontogeny remains undefined. We now investigate the mucus barrier and sentinel goblet cell development in relation to postnatal colonization. Combined in vivo and ex vivo analyses demonstrate rapid and sequential microbiota-dependent development of these primary and secondary goblet cell protective functions, with dynamic changes in mucus processing dependent on innate immune signaling via MyD88 and development of functional sentinel goblet cells dependent on the NADPH/dual oxidase family member Duox2. Our findings identify new mechanisms of microbiota-goblet cell regulatory interaction and highlight the critical importance of the pre-weaning period for the normal development of protective systems that are key legislators of host-microbiota interaction.

BCOR and ZC3H12A suppress a core stemness program in exhausted CD8+ T cells

In chronic viral infections, sustained CD8+ T cell response relies on TCF1+ precursor-exhausted T cells (TPEX) exhibiting stem-like properties. TPEX self-renew and respond to PD-1 blockade, underscoring their paramount importance. However, strategies for effectively augmenting TPEX remain limited. Here, we demonstrate that ZC3H12A deficiency initiates a stemness program in TPEX but also increases cell death, whereas BCOR deficiency predominantly promotes TPEX proliferation. Consequently, co-targeting of both BCOR and ZC3H12A imparts exceptional stemness and functionality to TPEX, thereby enhancing viral control. Mechanistically, BCOR and ZC3H12A collaboratively suppress a core stemness program in TPEX characterized by heightened expression of ∼216 factors. While TCF1 plays a role, this core stemness program relies on novel factors, including PDZK1IP1, IFIT3, PIM2, LTB, and POU2F2. Crucially, overexpressing POU2F2 robustly boosts TPEX and enhances antiviral immunity. Thus, a core stemness program exists in exhausted T cells, jointly repressed by BCOR and ZC3H12A, robustly controlling TPEX differentiation and providing new targets for addressing T cell exhaustion.

Demethylase FTO in the cerebrospinal fluid-contacting nucleus of mice contributes to neuropathic pain via mediating m6A demethylation of P2rx4 mRNA

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification plays a crucial role in pain regulation by modulating pain-related gene expression. The cerebrospinal fluid-contacting nucleus (CSF-contacting nucleus) is closely associated with pain, and downregulation of P2X4 receptor (P2X4R) expression in this region alleviates hyperalgesia. However, the relationship between m6A modification and P2X4R in CSF-contacting nucleus remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the role and potential mechanisms of the m6A demethylase fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) and P2X4R in neuropathic pain (NP) induced by spared nerve injury (SNI) in male mice. We observed decreased m6A levels and upregulated FTO expression in the CSF-contacting nucleus of SNI mice. FTO was primarily expressed in neurons of the CSF-contacting nucleus, with symmetrical distribution across its bilateral regions. In CSF-contacting nucleus, FTO overexpression reduced m6A methylation and promoted pain, while FTO inhibition increased m6A levels and alleviated pain hypersensitivity. The administration of the FTO inhibitor meclofenamic acid (MA) into CSF-contacting nucleus alleviated pain. FTO regulated the expression of P2rx4 mRNA and protein in CSF-contacting nucleus. Furthermore, P2rx4 mRNA is a downstream target of FTO-mediated m6A demethylation. In summary, the m6A demethylase FTO contributes to NP by upregulating the expression of P2rx4 mRNA and protein through mediating m6A demethylation of P2rx4 mRNA. Therefore, the m6A demethylase FTO in CSF-contacting nucleus may represent a novel therapeutic target for NP.

Bidirectional regulation of the brain-gut-microbiota axis following traumatic brain injury

JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202508000-00002/figure1/v/2024-09-30T120553Z/r/image-tiff Traumatic brain injury is a prevalent disorder of the central nervous system. In addition to primary brain parenchymal damage, the enduring biological consequences of traumatic brain injury pose long-term risks for patients with traumatic brain injury; however, the underlying pathogenesis remains unclear, and effective intervention methods are lacking. Intestinal dysfunction is a significant consequence of traumatic brain injury. Being the most densely innervated peripheral tissue in the body, the gut possesses multiple pathways for the establishment of a bidirectional "brain-gut axis" with the central nervous system. The gut harbors a vast microbial community, and alterations of the gut niche contribute to the progression of traumatic brain injury and its unfavorable prognosis through neuronal, hormonal, and immune pathways. A comprehensive understanding of microbiota-mediated peripheral neuroimmunomodulation mechanisms is needed to enhance treatment strategies for traumatic brain injury and its associated complications. We comprehensively reviewed alterations in the gut microecological environment following traumatic brain injury, with a specific focus on the complex biological processes of peripheral nerves, immunity, and microbes triggered by traumatic brain injury, encompassing autonomic dysfunction, neuroendocrine disturbances, peripheral immunosuppression, increased intestinal barrier permeability, compromised responses of sensory nerves to microorganisms, and potential effector nuclei in the central nervous system influenced by gut microbiota. Additionally, we reviewed the mechanisms underlying secondary biological injury and the dynamic pathological responses that occur following injury to enhance our current understanding of how peripheral pathways impact the outcome of patients with traumatic brain injury. This review aimed to propose a conceptual model for future risk assessment of central nervous system-related diseases while elucidating novel insights into the bidirectional effects of the "brain-gut-microbiota axis."

Macrophage response to fibrin structure mediated by Tgm2-dependent mitochondrial mechanosensing

Following an injury at the implantation position, blood-material interactions form a fibrin architecture, which serves as the initial activator of foreign body response (FBR). However, there is limited knowledge regarding how the topography of fibrin architectures regulates macrophage behavior in mitigating FBR. Mechanical cues of the microenvironment have been reported to shape immune cell functions. Here, we investigated macrophage mechanobiology at the organelle level by constructing heterogeneous fibrin networks. Based on findings in vivo, we demonstrated that adhesion-mediated differentiation of mitochondrial function modulated macrophage polarization. The finite activation of integrin signaling upregulated transglutaminase 2 (Tgm2) in a trans-manner, augments PGC1α-mediated mitochondrial biogenesis. Our study highlighted the previously overlooked spatial structures of host proteins adsorbed on material surfaces, advocating for a paradigm shift in material design strategies, from focusing solely on physical properties to considering the modification of host proteins.

Neuronal regulated cell death in aging-related neurodegenerative diseases: key pathways and therapeutic potentials

Regulated cell death (such as apoptosis, necroptosis, pyroptosis, autophagy, cuproptosis, ferroptosis, disulfidptosis) involves complex signaling pathways and molecular effectors, and has been proven to be an important regulatory mechanism for regulating neuronal aging and death. However, excessive activation of regulated cell death may lead to the progression of aging-related diseases. This review summarizes recent advances in the understanding of seven forms of regulated cell death in age-related diseases. Notably, the newly identified ferroptosis and cuproptosis have been implicated in the risk of cognitive impairment and neurodegenerative diseases. These forms of cell death exacerbate disease progression by promoting inflammation, oxidative stress, and pathological protein aggregation. The review also provides an overview of key signaling pathways and crosstalk mechanisms among these regulated cell death forms, with a focus on ferroptosis, cuproptosis, and disulfidptosis. For instance, FDX1 directly induces cuproptosis by regulating copper ion valency and dihydrolipoamide S-acetyltransferase aggregation, while copper mediates glutathione peroxidase 4 degradation, enhancing ferroptosis sensitivity. Additionally, inhibiting the Xc- transport system to prevent ferroptosis can increase disulfide formation and shift the NADP + /NADPH ratio, transitioning ferroptosis to disulfidptosis. These insights help to uncover the potential connections among these novel regulated cell death forms and differentiate them from traditional regulated cell death mechanisms. In conclusion, identifying key targets and their crosstalk points among various regulated cell death pathways may aid in developing specific biomarkers to reverse the aging clock and treat age-related neurodegenerative conditions.

C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 pathway as a therapeutic target and regulatory mechanism for spinal cord injury

Spinal cord injury involves non-reversible damage to the central nervous system that is characterized by limited regenerative capacity and secondary inflammatory damage. The expression of the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis exhibits significant differences before and after injury. Recent studies have revealed that the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis is closely associated with secondary inflammatory responses and the recruitment of immune cells following spinal cord injury, suggesting that this axis is a novel target and regulatory control point for treatment. This review comprehensively examines the therapeutic strategies targeting the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis, along with the regenerative and repair mechanisms linking the axis to spinal cord injury. Additionally, we summarize the upstream and downstream inflammatory signaling pathways associated with spinal cord injury and the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis. This review primarily elaborates on therapeutic strategies that target the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis and the latest progress of research on antagonistic drugs, along with the approaches used to exploit new therapeutic targets within the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis and the development of targeted drugs. Nevertheless, there are presently no clinical studies relating to spinal cord injury that are focusing on the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis. This review aims to provide new ideas and therapeutic strategies for the future treatment of spinal cord injury.

Differential response of injured and healthy retinas to syngeneic and allogeneic transplantation of a clonal cell line of immortalized olfactory ensheathing glia: a double-edged sword

JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202508000-00029/figure1/v/2024-09-30T120553Z/r/image-tiff Olfactory ensheathing glia promote axonal regeneration in the mammalian central nervous system, including retinal ganglion cell axonal growth through the injured optic nerve. Still, it is unknown whether olfactory ensheathing glia also have neuroprotective properties. Olfactory ensheathing glia express brain-derived neurotrophic factor, one of the best neuroprotectants for axotomized retinal ganglion cells. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the neuroprotective capacity of olfactory ensheating glia after optic nerve crush. Olfactory ensheathing glia cells from an established rat immortalized clonal cell line, TEG3, were intravitreally injected in intact and axotomized retinas in syngeneic and allogeneic mode with or without microglial inhibition or immunosuppressive treatments. Anatomical and gene expression analyses were performed. Olfactory bulb-derived primary olfactory ensheathing glia and TEG3 express major histocompatibility complex class II molecules. Allogeneically and syngenically transplanted TEG3 cells survived in the vitreous for up to 21 days, forming an epimembrane. In axotomized retinas, only the allogeneic TEG3 transplant rescued retinal ganglion cells at 7 days but not at 21 days. In these retinas, microglial anatomical activation was higher than after optic nerve crush alone. In intact retinas, both transplants activated microglial cells and caused retinal ganglion cell death at 21 days, a loss that was higher after allotransplantation, triggered by pyroptosis and partially rescued by microglial inhibition or immunosuppression. However, neuroprotection of axotomized retinal ganglion cells did not improve with these treatments. The different neuroprotective properties, different toxic effects, and different responses to microglial inhibitory treatments of olfactory ensheathing glia in the retina depending on the type of transplant highlight the importance of thorough preclinical studies to explore these variables.

BBPs-functionalized tetrahedral framework nucleic acid hydrogel scaffold captures endogenous BMP-2 to promote bone regeneration

Bone Morphogenetic Protein-2 (BMP-2) is a key growth factor for inducing osteogenic differentiation and promoting bone remodeling. However, the exogenous application of delivery systems for BMP-2 has been hampered by various postoperative complications, poor stability and high price. Hence, in situ enrichment of endogenous BMP-2 is promising. The discovery of a small molecule BMP-2 binding peptide (BBP) that binds specifically to BMP-2 with high affinity lays the foundation for the construction of bioactive materials that capture endogenous BMP-2. In contrast, conventional enrichment strategies have low binding efficiency due to steric hindrance caused by the disordered arrangement of BBPs. Tetrahedral framework nucleic acid (tFNA) exhibits good editability and unique three-dimensional spatial structure that enables topological control of multivalent ligands in spatial distribution. The BBPs are further designed to be stably modified on tFNA (BBPs-tFNA) via click chemistry of the azide-alkyne addition to achieve the orderly arrangement of BBPs in spatial organization, to improve the binding efficiency of BMP-2. Therefore, in this study, BBPs-tFNA is modified on biocompatible hyaluronic acid methacryloyl (HAMA) to construct the functionalized bioactive composite hydrogel scaffolds, with the aim of achieving precise and efficient capture of endogenous BMP-2, stimulating osteogenic differentiation and promoting in situ osteogenesis for bone defect repair.

Engineered cell nanovesicle antagonists for androgen deprivation therapy of melanoma

Epidemiological studies on melanoma have revealed significant gender disparities, with the incidence and mortality rates being higher in males than in females. Recent studies indicate that androgen contributing to T cell exhaustion and promoting cancer cell proliferation. While clinical androgen deprivation therapies (ADT),particularly the use of androgen receptor (AR) antagonists to block AR signaling, has been employed in clinical settings to reduce androgen levels, antiandrogen drugs often encounter challenges such as poor targeting and selectivity, increased toxicity, low stability, short half-life and the emergence of drug resistance. Here, we establish a nanoantagonists for efficient AR signaling blockade by arming antigen-activated dendritic cells (DCs) nanovesicles with AR antibodies (aAR-NVOVA). This innovative approach demonstrates dual therapeutic efficacy: aAR-NVOVA effectively disrupts androgen-AR interactions in both melanoma cells and T cells, simultaneously inhibiting tumor proliferation and reversing T cell exhaustion. Furthermore, aAR-NVOVA retains the inherent immunostimulatory properties of DCs, facilitating T cell activation and enhancing cytotoxic T lymphocyte infiltration within tumor tissues. As a result, a synergistic effect has been observed in boosting T cell-based immunotherapy by simultaneously enhancing T cell activity and reducing its exhaustion. Our study using aAR-NVOVA to antagonize androgen effects offers a promising new strategy for enhancing melanoma immunotherapy.

Waste corn stalk-derived biomass carbon materials as two-electron ORR electrocatalysts for dye contaminant degradation and water disinfection

Porous carbon materials as efficient two-electron oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) electrocatalysts for on-situ production of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is one of the promising alternatives to the traditional anthraquinone process. Herein, waste corn stalks-derived porous carbon composites (CSDC-O, Fe/CSDC-O-12) were developed as two-electron ORR electrocatalysts for H2O2 generation and the further organic dye pollutants degradation and water disinfection. The high-temperature pyrolysis and oxidation treatment enriched the hierarchical porous structure of the biomass carbon materials, improved graphitization degree and the content of oxygen-containing functional groups, which facilitated the increase of active sites density, the mass and charge transfer rates acceleration, and the active and selective H2O2 generation. Based on the remarkable two-electron ORR selectivity and long-term stability in both alkaline and acidic media exhibited by Fe/CSDC-O-12, it was used to completely degrade 25 mg L-1 of rhodamine B and methyl orange within 70 and 80 min, respectively. Moreover, the CSDC-O electrocatalyst demonstrated disinfection efficiency exceeding 99.9999 % against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus within 20 and 60 min, respectively. Thus, our work provides a feasibility verification for the transformation of abundant biomass corn stalk waste into low-cost, sustainable, and high-value-added two-electron ORR electrocatalysts, and expand their application in dye contaminant degradation and water disinfection.

Interaction of major facilitator superfamily domain containing 2A with the blood-brain barrier

The functional and structural integrity of the blood-brain barrier is crucial in maintaining homeostasis in the brain microenvironment; however, the molecular mechanisms underlying the formation and function of the blood-brain barrier remain poorly understood. The major facilitator superfamily domain containing 2A has been identified as a key regulator of blood-brain barrier function. It plays a critical role in promoting and maintaining the formation and functional stability of the blood-brain barrier, in addition to the transport of lipids, such as docosahexaenoic acid, across the blood-brain barrier. Furthermore, an increasing number of studies have suggested that major facilitator superfamily domain containing 2A is involved in the molecular mechanisms of blood-brain barrier dysfunction in a variety of neurological diseases; however, little is known regarding the mechanisms by which major facilitator superfamily domain containing 2A affects the blood-brain barrier. This paper provides a comprehensive and systematic review of the close relationship between major facilitator superfamily domain containing 2A proteins and the blood-brain barrier, including their basic structures and functions, cross-linking between major facilitator superfamily domain containing 2A and the blood-brain barrier, and the in-depth studies on lipid transport and the regulation of blood-brain barrier permeability. This comprehensive systematic review contributes to an in-depth understanding of the important role of major facilitator superfamily domain containing 2A proteins in maintaining the structure and function of the blood-brain barrier and the research progress to date. This will not only help to elucidate the pathogenesis of neurological diseases, improve the accuracy of laboratory diagnosis, and optimize clinical treatment strategies, but it may also play an important role in prognostic monitoring. In addition, the effects of major facilitator superfamily domain containing 2A on blood-brain barrier leakage in various diseases and the research progress on cross-blood-brain barrier drug delivery are summarized. This review may contribute to the development of new approaches for the treatment of neurological diseases.

Autoantibodies and therapeutic antibodies against complement factor H

The complement system is a crucial part of our immune defense as, upon recognition, it can kill pathogens fast and effectively. However, misguided complement activation could cause damage to host tissues. Therefore, a well-controlled regulation of the complement system is a necessity to prevent collateral damage. Regulation is achieved by several complement inhibitory proteins, acting at different levels of the complement system. One of these complement regulators is factor H, the main regulator of the alternative complement activation pathway. Factor H can regulate the complement system both in fluid-phase and on the host cell surface by, for example, acting as co-factor for factor I, inactivating C3b. The functional properties of factor H are located within different regions of the protein. Functional impairment of factor H, either because of genetic variants, competing proteins such as the factor H-related proteins and proteins from certain pathogens, but also the presence of autoantibodies will impact on complement activation. However, exact consequences are dependent on the region within factor H that is affected. Autoantibodies binding to factor H have been shown to inhibit several regulatory functions of factor H, which is observed in diseases such as membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis and atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome. As more recently the presence of anti-factor H autoantibodies has also been discovered in several other diseases, ranging from autoimmune diseases to cancer, this review provides an overview of the presence of factor H autoantibodies described in these diseases. Factor H autoantibodies are reported to have inhibitory, or enhancing, effects on factor H, depending on the epitopes that are recognized. Formal conclusions about the pathogenicity of the factor H autoantibodies in some of these diseases cannot be drawn yet. Importantly, understanding the binding and functional impact of anti-factor H (auto)antibodies will allow targeted interventions to diminish pathological consequences of anti-factor H autoantibodies but may also open up additional avenues for the use of anti-factor H antibodies as therapeutic agents.

Discovery of novel JAK3 inhibitors for the treatment of atopic dermatitis

Janus kinase 3 (JAK3), a member of the Janus kinase family, plays a pivotal role in the signaling pathways of various pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-2 and IFN-γ. Compared to non-selective JAK inhibitors, selective JAK3 inhibitors specifically target distinct signaling pathways, thereby reducing the broad inhibition of other cytokines and minimizing potential side effects. This selectivity renders them potentially advantageous for the treatment of autoimmune and inflammatory disease. In this study, we describe the discovery of compound X15, a novel JAK3 inhibitor with potent JAK3 inhibitory activity (IC50 = 14.56 nM) and an acceptable pharmacokinetic profile (F = 27.38 %, T1/2 = 20.33 h). Furthermore, compound X15 alleviated the symptoms of dermatitis in a DNCB-induced atopic dermatitis Balb/c mice model, with reduced ear thickness at a high dose (90 mg/kg, 0.038 mm) compared to the model group (0.106 mm). Preliminary mechanistic studies indicated that compound X15 inhibited the production of inflammatory cytokines IL-2 and IL-6 when compared to the model group. Collectively, our findings suggest that compound X15 is a novel covalent JAK3 inhibitor with promising in vitro and in vivo efficacy, potentially serving as a valuable molecular tool for exploring the biological functions of JAK3.

Rational design and structure-activity relationship of random copolymers for enhanced siRNA delivery

HYPOTHESIS

Cationic polymers and their derivatives have garnered significant interest as advanced vectors for siRNA delivery. Recently, we developed a robust diblock copolymer featuring an innovative binding block and a stealth block that work synergistically to facilitate efficient delivery of biotherapeutics. However, the fundamental mechanisms underlying its superior delivery capacity remain to be fully elucidated.

EXPERIMENTS

Since the binding block dominantly regulate the delivery performance, we synthesized a series of adapted copolymers, P(AAPBAm-co-DMAPMAn), by solely incorporating the key involved units, namely 3-acrylamidophenylboronic acid (AAPBA) and N-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)methacrylamide (DMAPMA). We thoroughly varied the block combinations, sequences and lengths, and investigated their effects on siRNA delivery.

FINDINGS

AAPBA and DMAPMA can bound to siRNA through reversible ester bonds and electrostatic interactions, respectively. The former enhanced siRNA release due to its responsive properties, while the cationic DMAPMA promoted endosomal escape of the complexes through its inherent interaction with membrane. Notably, only the rational combination of 20 units of each monomer, defined as copolymer P(AAPBA20-co-DMAPMA20), integrated the multiple yet balanced functions that sequentially promoted siRNA loading, endocytosis, endosome escape, and cytoplasmic release, ultimately leading to superior gene silencing. The clarified structure-activity relationships and revealed principles are valuable for the rational design of novel polymeric vectors to improve siRNA delivery and therapeutic applications.

Oligodendrocyte-derived IL-33 regulates self-reactive CD8+ T cells in CNS autoimmunity

In chronic inflammatory disorders of the central nervous system (CNS), tissue-resident self-reactive T cells perpetuate disease. The specific tissue factors governing the persistence and continuous differentiation of these cells remain undefined but could represent attractive therapeutic targets. In a model of chronic CNS autoimmunity, we find that oligodendrocyte-derived IL-33, an alarmin, is key for locally regulating the pathogenicity of self-reactive CD8+ T cells. The selective ablation of IL-33 from neo-self-antigen-expressing oligodendrocytes mitigates CNS disease. In this context, fewer self-reactive CD8+ T cells persist in the inflamed CNS, and the remaining cells are impaired in generating TCF-1low effector cells. Importantly, interventional IL-33 blockade by locally administered somatic gene therapy reduces T cell infiltrates and improves the disease course. Our study identifies oligodendrocyte-derived IL-33 as a druggable tissue factor regulating the differentiation and survival of self-reactive CD8+ T cells in the inflamed CNS. This finding introduces tissue factors as a novel category of immune targets for treating chronic CNS autoimmune diseases.

Role of PRC2 in the stochastic expression of Aire target genes and development of mimetic cells in the thymus

The transcriptional targets of Aire and the mechanisms controlling their expression in medullary thymic epithelial cells (mTECs) need to be clarified to understand Aire's tolerogenic function. By using a multi-omics single-cell approach coupled with deep scRNA-seq, we examined how Aire controls the transcription of a wide variety of genes in a small fraction of Aire-expressing cells. We found that chromatin repression by PRC2 is an important step for Aire to achieve stochastic gene expression. Aire unleashed the silenced chromatin configuration caused by PRC2, thereby increasing the expression of its functional targets. Besides this preconditioning for Aire's gene induction, we demonstrated that PRC2 also controls the composition of mTECs that mimic the developmental trait of peripheral tissues, i.e., mimetic cells. Of note, this action of PRC2 was independent of Aire and it was more apparent than Aire. Thus, our study uncovered the essential role of polycomb complex for Aire-mediated promiscuous gene expression and the development of mimetic cells.

Factor XII-driven coagulation traps bacterial infections

Blood coagulation is essential for stopping bleeding but also drives thromboembolic disorders. Factor XII (FXII)-triggered coagulation promotes thrombosis while being dispensable for hemostasis, making it a potential anticoagulant target. However, its physiological role remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that FXII-driven coagulation enhances innate immunity by trapping pathogens and restricting bacterial infection in mice. Streptococcus pneumoniae infection was more severe in FXII-deficient (F12-/-) mice, with increased pulmonary bacterial burden, systemic spread, and mortality. Similarly, Staphylococcus aureus skin infections and systemic dissemination were exacerbated in F12-/- mice. Reconstitution with human FXII restored bacterial containment. Plasma kallikrein amplifies FXII activation, and its deficiency aggravated S. aureus skin infections, similarly to F12-/- mice. FXII deficiency impaired fibrin deposition in abscess walls, leading to leaky capsules and bacterial escape. Bacterial long-chain polyphosphate activated FXII, triggering fibrin formation. Deficiency in FXII substrate factor XI or FXII/factor XI co-deficiency similarly exacerbated S. aureus infection. The data reveal a protective role for FXII-driven coagulation in host defense, urging caution in developing therapeutic strategies targeting this pathway.

Impaired Aire-dependent IFN signaling in the thymus precedes the protective autoantibodies to IFNα

Recent studies have highlighted the role of the thymus in maintaining immune tolerance to type 1 interferons (T1 IFNs). Individuals with thymic abnormalities, such as autoimmune regulator (AIRE) gene mutations, frequently develop neutralizing autoantibodies to interferon-alpha (IFNα). Unlike mice, Aire-deficient rats develop robust autoantibodies to IFNα. Using this rat model, we show that Aire regulates the thymic expression of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs), which occurs before developing anti-IFNα autoantibodies. In the periphery, we observed a widespread downregulation of ISGs across immune cells and reduced activation of natural killer (NK) cells. Furthermore, the presence of anti-IFNα autoantibodies correlated with reduced peripheral tissue inflammation, suggesting their role in dampening T1 IFN signaling and minimizing tissue infiltration. Our findings reveal that Aire-mediated regulation of thymic T1 IFN signaling is linked to the production of protective anti-IFNα autoantibodies, which inversely correlate with autoimmune pathology in peripheral tissues.

Prenatally derived macrophages support choroidal health and decline in age-related macular degeneration

Hallmark findings in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) include the accumulation of extracellular lipid and vasodegeneration of the choriocapillaris. Choroidal inflammation has long been associated with AMD, but little is known about the immune landscape of the human choroid. Using 3D multiplex immunofluorescence, single-cell RNA sequencing, and flow cytometry, we unravel the cellular composition and spatial organization of the human choroid and the immune cells within it. We identify two populations of choroidal macrophages with distinct FOLR2 expression that account for the majority of myeloid cells. FOLR2+ macrophages predominate in the nondiseased eye, express lipid-handling machinery, uptake lipoprotein particles, and contain high amounts of lipid. In AMD, FOLR2+ macrophages are decreased in number and exhibit dysfunctional lipoprotein metabolism. In mice, FOLR2+ macrophages are negative for the postnatal fate-reporter Ms4a3, and their depletion causes an accelerated AMD-like phenotype. Our results show that prenatally derived resident macrophages decline in AMD and are implicated in multiple hallmark functions known to be compromised in the disease.

Plasmodium falciparum infection induces T cell tolerance that is associated with decreased disease severity upon re-infection

Immunity to severe malaria is acquired quickly, operates independently of pathogen load, and represents a highly effective form of disease tolerance. The mechanism that underpins tolerance remains unknown. We used a human rechallenge model of falciparum malaria in which healthy adult volunteers were infected three times over a 12 mo period to track the development of disease tolerance in real-time. We found that parasitemia triggered a hardwired innate immune response that led to systemic inflammation, pyrexia, and hallmark symptoms of clinical malaria across the first three infections of life. In contrast, a single infection was sufficient to reprogram T cell activation and reduce the number and diversity of effector cells upon rechallenge. Crucially, this did not silence stem-like memory cells but instead prevented the generation of cytotoxic effectors associated with autoinflammatory disease. Tolerized hosts were thus able to prevent collateral tissue damage in the absence of antiparasite immunity.

Microglia and CD8+ T cell activation precede neuronal loss in a murine model of spastic paraplegia 15

In central nervous system (CNS) diseases characterized by late-onset neurodegeneration, the interplay between innate and adaptive immune responses remains poorly understood. This knowledge gap is exacerbated by the prolonged protracted disease course as it complicates the delineation of brain-resident and infiltrating cells. Here, we conducted comprehensive profiling of innate and adaptive immune cells in a murine model of spastic paraplegia 15 (SPG15), a complicated form of hereditary spastic paraplegia. Using fate-mapping of bone marrow-derived cells, we identified microgliosis accompanied by infiltration and local expansion of T cells in the CNS of Spg15-/- mice. Single-cell analysis revealed an expansion of disease-associated microglia (DAM) and effector CD8+ T cells prior to neuronal loss. Analysis of potential cell-cell communication pathways suggested bidirectional interactions between DAM and effector CD8+ T cells, potentially contributing to disease progression in Spg15-/- mice. In summary, we identified a shift in microglial phenotypes associated with the recruitment and expansion of T cells as a new characteristic of Spg15-driven neuropathology.

Noncanonical T cell responses are associated with protection from tuberculosis in mice and humans

While control of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection is generally understood to require Th1 cells and IFNγ, infection produces a spectrum of immunological and pathological phenotypes in diverse human populations. By characterizing Mtb infection in mouse strains that model the genetic heterogeneity of an outbred population, we identified strains that control Mtb comparably to a standard IFNγ-dependent mouse model but with substantially lower lung IFNγ levels. We report that these mice have a significantly altered CD4 T cell profile that specifically lacks the terminal effector Th1 subset and that this phenotype is detectable before infection. These mice still require T cells to control bacterial burden but are less dependent on IFNγ signaling. Instead, noncanonical immune features such as Th17-like CD4 and γδT cells correlate with low bacterial burden. We find the same Th17 transcriptional programs are associated with resistance to Mtb infection in humans, implicating specific non-Th1 T cell responses as a common feature of Mtb control across species.

Enhanced TLR7-dependent production of type I interferon by pDCs underlies pandemic chilblains

Outbreaks of chilblains were reported during the COVID-19 pandemic. Given the essential role of type I interferon (I-IFN) in protective immunity against SARS-CoV-2 and the association of chilblains with inherited type I interferonopathies, we hypothesized that excessive I-IFN responses to SARS-CoV-2 might underlie the occurrence of chilblains in this context. We identified a transient I-IFN signature in chilblain lesions, accompanied by an acral infiltration of activated plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs). Patients with chilblains were otherwise asymptomatic or had mild disease without seroconversion. Their leukocytes produced abnormally high levels of I-IFN upon TLR7 stimulation with agonists or ssRNA viruses-particularly SARS-CoV-2-but not with DNA agonists of TLR9 or the dsDNA virus HSV-1. Moreover, the patients' pDCs displayed cell-intrinsic hyperresponsiveness to TLR7 stimulation regardless of TLR7 levels. Inherited TLR7 or I-IFN deficiency confers a predisposition to life-threatening COVID-19. Conversely, our findings suggest that enhanced TLR7 activity in predisposed individuals could confer innate, pDC-mediated, sterilizing immunity to SARS-CoV-2 infection, with I-IFN-driven chilblains as a trade-off.

Vaccination against influenza viruses annually: Renewing or narrowing the protective shield?

Annual vaccines are recommended for the seasonal influenza virus. While yearly updates to the vaccine are necessary due to the constant evolution of influenza viruses, some studies have suggested repeat vaccination may result in a reduction in vaccine effectiveness in subsequent years. This review examines the available evidence that repeated annual influenza virus vaccination may have effects on future vaccine responses, and it synthesizes the available data with studies that may indicate potential immunological mechanisms underlying these effects. The goal is to examine the available literature to determine whether these mechanisms can be subverted to improve seasonal influenza virus vaccine efficacy.

Total adenosine deaminase cases as an inflammatory biomarker of pleural effusion syndrome

BACKGROUND

Although inflammatory diseases commonly affect the pleura and pleural space, their mechanisms of action remain unclear. The presence of several mediators emphasizes the concept of pleural inflammation. Adenosine deaminase (ADA) is an inflammatory mediator detected at increased levels in the pleural fluid.

AIM

To determine the role of total pleural ADA (P-ADA) levels in the diagnosis of pleural inflammatory diseases.

METHODS

157 patients with inflammatory pleural effusion (exudates, n = 124, 79%) and non-inflammatory pleural effusion (transudates, n = 33, 21%) were included in this observational retrospective cohort study. The P-ADA assay was tested using a kinetic technique. The performance of the model was evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC). The ideal cutoff value for P-ADA in pleural inflammation was determined using the Youden index in the ROC curve.

RESULTS

The transudates included congestive heart failure (n = 26), cirrhosis of the liver with ascites (n = 3), chronic renal failure (n = 3), and low total protein levels (n = 1). The exudate cases included tuberculosis (n = 44), adenocarcinoma (n = 37), simple parapneumonic effusions (n = 15), complicated parapneumonic effusions/empyema (n = 8), lymphoma (n = 7), and other diseases (n = 13). The optimal cutoff value of P-ADA was ≥ 9.00 U/L. The diagnostic parameters as sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, positive and negative likelihood values, odds ratio, and accuracy were 77.69 (95%CI: 69.22-84.75); 68.75 (95%CI: 49.99-83.88); 90.38 and 44.90 (95%CI: 83.03-95.29; 30.67-59.77); 2.48 and 0.32 (95%CI: 2.21-11.2; 0.27-0.51); 7.65 (95%CI: 0.78-18.34), and 75.82 (95%CI: 68.24-82.37), respectively (χ² = 29.51, P = 0.00001). An AUC value of 0.8107 (95%CI: 0.7174-0.8754; P = 0.0000) was clinically useful. The Hosmer-Lemeshow test showed excellent discrimination.

CONCLUSION

P-ADA biomarker has high diagnostic performance for pleural inflammatory exudates.

STING inhibitors and degraders: Potential therapeutic agents in inflammatory diseases

The regulation of the STING (stimulator of interferon genes) pathway represents a promising target for a range of inflammatory diseases. This review provides an overview of the structure of STING and discusses the mechanisms by which the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-STING pathway is associated with various autoinflammatory and autoimmune diseases. We explore how targeting STING inhibition or degradation can alleviate excessive inflammatory signaling and improve efficacy. Emerging strategies include inhibiting STING expression by covalently binding compounds or using ligands that target the binding pocket. In addition, selective degradation of STING via the ubiquitin-proteasome system or the lysosomal pathway shows promise. In addition, we explore the implications of modulating the cGAS-STING pathway in the context of various inflammatory diseases. Finally, we summarize the chemical properties of recently developed STING compounds and their potential clinical applications. By comprehensively reviewing the current understanding of the role of STING in inflammation and the therapeutic potential of targeting STING, we aim to identify new avenues of intervention that could improve outcomes for patients with inflammatory diseases. This review highlights the important role of STING in the regulation of inflammation and its potential as a target for innovative therapeutic strategies.

Notch signaling and cancer: Insights into chemoresistance, immune evasion, and immunotherapy

The Notch signaling pathway is a fundamental and highly conserved cell-to-cell communication system vital for embryonic development and tissue maintenance. However, its dysregulation has been associated with the initiation, progression, and chemoresistance of various cancers. In this comprehensive review, we will take an in-depth look at the multiple roles of the Notch family in cancer pathogenesis, immune response, and resistance to chemotherapy. We delve into the complicated mechanisms by which Notch signaling promotes tumor growth and development, including its influence on TME remodeling and immune evasion strategies. We will also be discussing recent studies that shed light on the connection between cancer stemness and chemoresistance mediated through the activation of Notch signaling pathways. Elucidation of the interplay between the Notch pathway and major constituents of the TME, including immune cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts, is necessary for the development of targeted therapies against Notch-driven tumors. We further discuss the potential of targeting Notch signaling alone or in combination with standard chemotherapy and immunotherapy as a potent strategy to overcome chemoresistance and improve patient outcomes. We conclude by discussing the challenges and future prospects of using Notch signaling as a therapeutic target in cancer treatment, focusing on how precision medicine and combination approaches are important.

TSH inhibits osteoclast differentiation through AMPK signaling pathway

PURPOSE

It is believed that osteoporosis (OP) is associated with hyperthyroidism as a result of the elevation in thyroxine levels. However, patients with subclinical hyperthyroidism, which is characterized by decreased levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) alone, are at equal risk of osteoporosis. Research has shown that TSH receptor (TSHR) is expressed on osteoclasts, but whether TSH directly regulates osteoclasts and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear.

METHODS

In this study, we used osteoclast precursor cell conditional TSHR-knockout (TSHR CKO) mouse to study the effects of TSHR knockout on bone metabolism in mice and the changes in osteoclast differentiation in vitro. Transcriptomics was used to identify differentially expressed genes and signaling pathways.

RESULTS

In vitro, experiments confirmed that TSH inhibited osteoclast differentiation in mouse RAW264.7 monocyte/macrophage cell line and targeted the key signaling pathway AMPK by RNA-seq sequencing. We found TSHR CKO mice exhibited decreased femoral biomechanics and damaged bone microstructure. The serum levels of bone resorption marker were increased, accompanied by an increase in the number of osteoclasts.

CONCLUSION

TSH inhibits osteoclast differentiation by activating the AMPK signaling pathway, and exerts an osteoprotective effect. This study will provide guidance for the diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis. TSH structural analogs or AMPK activators are expected to provide new ideas for the development of drugs to prevent and treat osteoporosis.

Clinically approved small-molecule drugs for anemia therapy

Anemia, a common blood disorder characterized by reduced red blood cell or hemoglobin levels, affects a significant portion of the global population. Traditional treatments, including dietary supplements and blood transfusions, often fail to address the underlying causes of anemia, particularly in chronic or genetic forms. This review highlights representative small-molecule drugs approved for anemia treatment, focusing on their synthetic routes and clinical applications. The synthetic routes of these drugs, often involving advanced organic chemistry techniques are crucial for optimizing production efficiency and scalability. Clinically, these small-molecule drugs have shown broad-spectrum therapeutic potential, with applications extending to various forms of anemia. This review underscores the importance of understanding the synthetic pathways of these drugs, which not only facilitates industrial-scale production but also paves the way for the development of next-generation therapies. Future research is expected to further optimize these small-molecule drugs, potentially leading to more effective and accessible treatments for anemia.

Screening lipid nanoparticles using DNA barcoding and qPCR

Quantifying the biodistribution of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) is critical for optimizing mRNA delivery systems, yet current approaches have inherent limitations. This study introduces a cost-effective method utilizing double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) barcodes and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) for rapid analysis of a small library of mRNA-LNPs biodistribution and functional delivery in vivo. Three unique 100-bp dsDNA barcodes were designed to represent for three FDA-approved LNP formulations. Concurrently, these three formulations carrying luciferase mRNA were mixed with DNA-barcoding LNPs as a pool. Following intravenous administration of the pooled LNPs in mice, qPCR analysis revealed the highest abundance of DNA barcodes and accumulation of luciferase mRNA in spleen, with positive correlation between barcodes presence and mRNA localization across organs, validating DNA barcodes as reliable indicators of mRNA-LNPs biodistribution in vivo. Bioluminescence imaging further confirmed successful delivery and protein translation of luciferase mRNA facilitated by the LNPs in vivo. Integrating DNA barcodes for biodistribution analysis and luciferase mRNA for assessing functional delivery enabled comprehensive evaluation of LNP performance. This robust methodology provides valuable insights into the localization patterns and mRNA delivery capabilities of different LNP formulations, paving the way for the development of more effective and targeted mRNA-based therapeutics.

Rosuvastatin inhibits carcinogenesis through Ca2+ triggered endoplasmic reticulum stress pathway in pancreatic cancer

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic cancer remains one of the most challenging malignancies to treat due to its late-stage diagnosis, aggressive progression, and high resistance to existing therapies. Rosuvastatin (ROV), known for its hypolipidemic effects, which significantly inhibited clonogenic capacity and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in prostate cancer cells. However, the anti-cancer mechanisms of ROV in PC have not yet been fully explored.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate the potential anti-cancer effects of ROV on PC cells and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

METHODS

Cytotoxicity was detected via MTT assay, while epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers, Ca2+ levels, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress were observed with fluorescence microscopy. RNA-seq analysis was used to identify significantly changed mRNA expression following ROV treatment. Additionally, western blotting and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were conducted to examine proteins involving in the cell cycle, EMT, Ca2+ signaling, and endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) in vitro and in vivo.

RESULTS

ROV inhibited PC cell proliferation by arresting the cell cycle at the G1/S phase and partially reducing cell mobility during the EMT process. A total of 1336 significantly different RNAs (P < 0.05 and |logFC|>1) were identified and analyzed through RNA-seq, revealing the Ca2+ and ER pathways in PC cells treated with ROV. ROV treatment significantly altered the level of intracellular Ca2+, triggering the ERS pathway and modulating the Ca2+/CaM/CaMKII/ERK pathway. Furthermore, ROV inhibited key proteins within the Ca2+ and ERS pathways, leading to reduced cell proliferation, mobility and G1/S phase arrest. In tumor tissues, the expression of Ki67, EMT markers, Calmodulin, and ATF6 corroborated the in vitro findings.

CONCLUSION

ROV inhibited proliferation and metastasis in PC cells by inhibiting the EMT process through the Ca2+/CaM/CaMKII/ERK and Ca2+-mediated ERS pathways, highlighting its potential as a prophylactic and therapeutic agent for PC.

USP22 promotes angiotensin II-induced podocyte injury by deubiquitinating and stabilizing HMGB1

BACKGROUND

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) remains a significant global health burden, with hypertensive nephropathy (HN) as one of its primary causes. Podocyte injury is a key factor in the progression of CKD. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying angiotensin II-induced podocyte injury remain incompletely understood. Ubiquitin-specific protease 22 (USP22) has been reported to facilitate a range of cellular processes, including cell proliferation and apoptosis. However, the role of USP22 in HN pathogenesis is unclear.

METHODS

The expression of USP22 was assessed in kidney samples from hypertensive nephropathy patients, angiotensin II-induced hypertensive nephropathy mouse models, and cultured podocytes treated with angiotensin II. Podocyte-specific USP22 knockout mice were used to investigate the effects of USP22 deletion on podocyte injury and inflammation.

RESULTS

USP22 expression was significantly upregulated in kidneys of HN patients, angiotensin II-induced mouse models, and cultured podocytes. Podocyte-specific deletion of USP22 markedly reduced angiotensin II-induced podocyte injury and inflammatory responses. Furthermore, we identified high-mobility group box protein 1 (HMGB1) as a protein that interacts with USP22. USP22 deubiquitinated and stabilized HMGB1 through K48-linked ubiquitination. Downregulation of USP22 expression improved kidney function and pathological changes in HN by promoting HMGB1 degradation.

CONCLUSION

This study identifies USP22 as a key regulator of angiotensin II-induced podocyte injury and inflammation through its interaction with HMGB1. Our findings revealed that following glomerular injury, damage and shedding of tubular cells also occurred. Targeting the USP22-HMGB1 axis offers a promising therapeutic strategy for treating hypertensive nephropathy and other types of CKD.

A highly positively charged Ru(II) complex with photo-labile ligands for selective and efficient photo-inactivation of intracellular Staphylococcus aureus

Due to the protection afforded by host cells, intracellular Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), particularly methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), poses a significantly greater challenge to eliminate compared to the extracellular counterparts. It is highly desirable to develop novel antibacterial agents which are capable of selectively and efficiently eradicating intracellular bacteria, including drug-resistant strains, while being less prone to induce bacterial resistance. In this work, two Ru(II) complexes (Ru1 and Ru2) with photo-labile ligands were designed and synthesized. Both Ru1 and Ru2 could covalently bind to DNA after photo-induced ligand dissociation. Compared to Ru1, the incorporation of a triphenylamine group adorned with two positively charged cationic pyridine units significantly boosts the DNA binding constant, bacterial binding/uptake level, and subsequently, the antibacterial activity of Ru2. Ru2 could selectively photo-inactivate intracellular S. aureus and MRSA, being more efficient than vancomycin both in vitro and in vivo. Interestingly, after 20 days' treatment at sublethal concentrations, S. aureus cells exhibited no obvious drug resistance towards Ru2 upon irradiation. Such appealing results may provide new sights for developing novel antibacterial agents against intractable intracellular pathogens and also prevalent drug resistance.

A Caspase-3 responsive nanoemulsion for targeted treatment of rheumatoid arthritis through dual modulation of inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by joint inflammation, pain, and progressive joint damage. Current treatments, while effective, are limited by their potential side effects, particularly in long-term use. This study introduces a novel nanoemulsion-based therapeutic approach combining rapamycin, an mTOR inhibitor, with SS31, a mitochondrial-targeting antioxidant peptide. The rapamycin-SS31 conjugate (RS31) is encapsulated within a nanoemulsion (RS31@NEs) designed to selectively release its components in response to elevated Caspase-3 levels, prevalent in inflamed joints. In vitro and in vivo studies using zymosan-induced arthritis (ZIA) and collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) mouse models demonstrated that RS31@NEs effectively reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines, mitigated oxidative stress, and improved immune modulation by enhancing regulatory T and B cell functions. These findings highlight RS31@NEs as a promising dual-action therapy for RA, combining anti-inflammatory and mitochondrial protective effects while minimizing systemic toxicity.

Lipid metabolism involved in progression and drug resistance of breast cancer

Breast cancer is the most common malignant tumor threatening women's health. Alteration in lipid metabolism plays an important role in the occurrence and development of many diseases, including breast cancer. The uptake, synthesis, and catabolism of lipids in breast cancer cells are significantly altered, among which the metabolism of fatty acids, cholesterols, sphingolipids, and glycolipids are most significantly changed. The growth, progression, metastasis, and drug resistance of breast cancer cells are tightly correlated with the increased uptake and biosynthesis of fatty acids and cholesterols and the up-regulation of fatty acid oxidation. Cholesterol and its metabolite 27-hydroxycholesterol promote the progression of breast cancer in a variety of ways. The alteration of lipid metabolism could promote the epithelial-mesenchymal transition of breast cancer cells and lead to changes in the tumor immune microenvironment that are conducive to the survival of cancer cells. While the accumulation of ceramide in cancer cells shows an inhibitory effect on breast cancer. This review focuses on lipid metabolism and elaborates on the research progress of the correlation between different lipid metabolism and the growth, progression, and drug resistance of breast cancer.

Expanded insights into the mechanisms of RNA-binding protein regulation of circRNA generation and function in cancer biology and therapy

RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) regulate the generation of circular RNAs (circRNAs) by participating in the reverse splicing of circRNA and thereby influencing circRNA function in cells and diseases, including cancer. Increasing evidence has demonstrated that the circRNA-RBP network plays a complex and multifaceted role in tumor progression. Thus, a better understanding of this network may provide new insights for the discovery of cancer drugs. In this review, we discuss the characteristics of RBPs and circRNAs and how the circRNA-RBP network regulates tumor cell phenotypes such as proliferation, metastasis, apoptosis, metabolism, immunity, drug resistance, and the tumor environment. Moreover, we investigate the factors that influence circRNA-RBP interactions and the regulation of downstream pathways related to tumor development, such as the tumor microenvironment and N6-methyladenosine modification. Furthermore, we discuss new ideas for targeting circRNA-RBP interactions using various RNA technologies.

Discovery of novel NLRP3 inhibitors enabled by a high-throughput screen

NLRP3 is a key regulator of the innate immune system involved in sensing a variety of pathogen and danger signals. Priming and activation of NLRP3 leads to the release and maturation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, as well as gasdermin D-mediated cell death. Inhibition of dysregulated NLRP3 activity has been associated with promising therapeutic opportunities for a variety of systemic and neurological diseases including atherosclerosis and Parkinson's disease. Herein, we discuss how a high-throughput screen (HTS) allowed us to discover new chemical scaffolds that specifically bind to NLRP3 and inhibit its function in a selective manner. We also describe how an enantiomer of HTS hit 5, compound 11, demonstrated in vivo inhibition of NLRP3.

Neuropathological links between T2DM and LOAD: systematic review and meta-analysis

Recent decades have described parallel neuropathological mechanisms increasing the risk for developing late-onset Alzheimer's dementia (LOAD) in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM); however, still little is known of the role of diabetic encephalopathy and brain atrophy in LOAD. The aim of this systematic review is to provide a comprehensive view on diabetic encephalopathy/cerebral atrophy, taking into account neuroimaging data, neuropathology, metabolic and endocrine mechanisms, amyloid formation, brain perfusion impairments, neuroimmunology, and inflammasome activation. Key switches were identified, to further meta-analyze genomic candidate loci and epigenetic modifications. For the qualitative meta-analysis of genomic bases extracted, human linkage studies were examined; for epigenetic mechanisms, data from both human and animal studies are described. For the systematic review of pathophysiological mechanisms, 1,259 publications were evaluated and 93 gene loci extracted for candidate risk linkages. Sixty-six publications were evaluated for genomic association and descriptions of epigenomic modifications. Overall accumulated results highlight the insulin signaling system, vascular markers, inflammation and inflammasome pathways, amylin interactions, and glycosylation mechanisms. The protocol was registered with PROSPERO (ID: CRD42023440535).

Associations of dietary patterns with serum 25(OH) vitamin D and serum anemia related biomarkers among expectant mothers: A machine learning based approach

BACKGROUND

Machine learning algorithms (MLA) gained prominence in nutritional epidemiology for analyzing dietary associations and uncovering intricate patterns within data. We explored dietary patterns associated with serum iron biomarkers and vitamin D among pregnant women, utilizing MLA to perform predictive analyses.

METHODS

The cross-sectional study utilized a secondary dataset from the Nationwide Nutrition and Health Survey in Taiwan, and 1,423 expectant mothers were recruited. Dietary patterns were predicted using K-means cluster analysis on semiquantitative food frequency data. Associations between serum biomarkers and dietary patterns were analyzed using binomial logistic regression, adjusting for sociodemographic and dietary variables. MLA including support vector machine, K-nearest neighbor, naive Bayes, random forest, and decision tree were applied to predict the accuracy of the dietary patterns in improving anemia-related biomarkers.

RESULTS

The K-means clustering identified two dietary patterns: LP + LA (low plant, low animal) and MP + LA (moderate plant, low animal). Logistic regression revealed that expectant mothers following the MP + LA pattern had a lower likelihood of low serum iron (OR = 0.45, 95 % CI 0.34-0.60) and ferritin (OR = 0.27, 95 % CI 0.21-0.36), but a higher likelihood of low 25(OH) vitamin D. MLA models demonstrated 70 %-76 % accuracy in identifying dietary pattern associated with improvement in serum iron and ferritin levels.

CONCLUSIONS

The MP + LA dietary pattern exhibits a positive association with serum iron biomarkers and a negative association with 25(OH) vitamin D. Machine learning models demonstrate comparable predictive accuracy, highlighting their utility in nutritional epidemiology for identifying dietary patterns and their relationships with biochemical markers.

Inhibition of the cGAS-STING pathway: contributing to the treatment of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury

The cGAS-STING pathway plays an important role in ischemia-reperfusion injury in the heart, liver, brain, and kidney, but its role and mechanisms in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury have not been systematically reviewed. Here, we outline the components of the cGAS-STING pathway and then analyze its role in autophagy, ferroptosis, cellular pyroptosis, disequilibrium of calcium homeostasis, inflammatory responses, disruption of the blood-brain barrier, microglia transformation, and complement system activation following cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury. We further analyze the value of cGAS-STING pathway inhibitors in the treatment of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury and conclude that the pathway can regulate cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury through multiple mechanisms. Inhibition of the cGAS-STING pathway may be helpful in the treatment of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury.

Guanylate-binding proteins protect the sea cucumbers Apostichopus japonicus against infection of Vibrio splendidus

Guanylate-binding proteins (GBPs) are interferon-induced innate immune effector molecules belonging to the GTPase superfamily and are crucial components of cell-autonomous immunity. To date, most research on GBPs has focused on mammals, with limited studies in marine invertebrates. In this study, we identified three GBP genes from the sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus, designated as AjGBP1, AjGBP2, and AjGBP3. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that AjGBPs cluster with GBPs from other invertebrates. Multiple sequence alignment and protein structural analysis indicated that the AjGBPs possess a conserved GTPase-binding domain at the N-terminus and an effector domain composed of α-helices at the C-terminus. These AjGBPs are ubiquitously expressed in the body wall, muscle, intestine, respiratory tree, and coelomocytes of A. japonicus, although their expression levels vary among different tissues. Under Vibrio splendidus challenge, the expression of all three AjGBPs was significantly upregulated in coelomocytes. Recombinant AjGBP proteins with GTPase activity were produced through prokaryotic expression, and bacterial binding assays demonstrated that they could bind V. splendidus in vitro in a GTP hydrolysis-dependent manner. Interference with AjGBPs expression suppressed the antibacterial capacity of coelomocytes. These findings suggest that AjGBPs target V. splendidus and play an important role in the antibacterial immune response of A. japonicus.

m6A reader YTHDC1 mediates MAFF nuclear export to induce VMP1 transcription and alleviate I/R-induced oxidative stress injury in hepatocytes

Hepatic ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury occurs after liver resection surgery, trauma, shock, and transplantation. This study aimed to identify and characterize the role of the YTH domain-containing protein 1 (YTHDC1)/MAFF/vacuole membrane protein 1 (VMP1) axis in hepatic I/R injury. YTHDC1, MAFF, and VMP1 were significantly overexpressed in the hepatic tissues of mice with I/R and hepatocytes exposed to hypoxia-reoxygenation (H/R). Knockdown of MAFF exacerbated oxidative stress and inflammatory injury in mice induced with hepatic I/R, which were reversed by overexpression of VMP1. Similarly, I/R-associated injury mitigated by YTHDC1 overexpression was reversed by MAFF knockdown. Mechanistically, YTHDC1 mediated the nuclear export and stability of MAFF mRNA and promoted MAFF translation. Collectively, the findings establish that YTHDC1-mediated m6A-dependent MAFF expression determines hepatocyte oxidative stress via VMP1, providing valuable insights into the potential mechanisms underlying hepatic I/R injury and offering potential therapeutic strategies for its treatment.