Wnt/β-catenin signalling: function, biological mechanisms, and therapeutic opportunities

Transcriptomic profiling of human mesenchymal stem cells using a pulsed electromagnetic-wave motion bioreactor system for enhanced osteogenic commitment and therapeutic potentials

Traditional bioreactor systems involve the use of three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds or stem cell aggregates, limiting the accessibility to the production of cell-secreted biomolecules. Herein, we present the use a pulse electromagnetic fields (pEMFs)-assisted wave-motion bioreactor system for the dynamic and scalable culture of human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) with enhanced the secretion of various soluble factors with massive therapeutic potential. The present study investigated the influence of dynamic pEMF (D-pEMF) on the kinetic of hBMSCs. A 30-min exposure of pEMF (10V-1Hz, 5.82 G) with 35 oscillations per minute (OPM) rocking speed can induce the proliferation (1 × 105 → 4.5 × 105) of hBMSCs than static culture. Furthermore, the culture of hBMSCs in osteo-induction media revealed a greater enhancement of osteogenic transcription factors under the D-pEMF condition, suggesting that D-pEMF addition significantly boosted hBMSCs osteogenesis. Additionally, the RNA sequencing data revealed a significant shift in various osteogenic and signaling genes in the D-pEMF group, further suggesting their osteogenic capabilities. In this research, we demonstrated that the combined effect of wave and pEMF stimulation on hBMSCs allows rapid proliferation and induces osteogenic properties in the cells. Moreover, our study revealed that D-pEMF stimuli also induce ROS-scavenging properties in the cultured cells. This study also revealed a bioactive and cost-effective approach that enables the use of cells without using any expensive materials and avoids the possible risks associated with them post-implantation.

SATB1 mediated tumor colonization and β-catenin nuclear localization are associated with colorectal cancer progression

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a malignancy with high incidence and poor prognosis. It is urgent to identify valuable biomarkers for early diagnosis and potent therapeutic targets. It has been reported that SATB1 is associated with the malignant progression in CRC. To explore the role of SATB1 in CRC progression and the underlying mechanism, we evaluated the expression of SATB1 in the paired CRC tissues with immunohistochemistry. The results showed that the expression of SATB1 in lymph node metastasis was higher than that in primary lesion, and that in distant organ metastasis was higher than that in primary lesion. The retrospective analysis showed that patients with high expression of SATB1 had a significantly worse prognosis than those with negative and moderate expression. In vitro experiments that employing SATB1 over-expressing and depleted CRC cell lines confirmed that SATB1 contributes to cell proliferation and colonization, while inhibiting cell motility. Furthermore, the tissue immunofluorescence assay, Co-IP and Western blot were conducted to reveal that SATB1 induced translocation of β-catenin and formed a protein complex with it in the nuclei. In conclusion, SATB1 mediated tumor colonization and β-catenin nuclear localization are associated with the malignant progression and poor prognosis of CRC.

Circ_0011058 alleviates RA pathology through the circ_0011058/miR-335-5p/CUL4B signal axis

Our previous study found that Cullin 4B (CUL4B) inhibited rheumatoid arthritis (RA) pathology through glycogen synthase kinase-3beta (GSK3β)/canonical Wnt signalling pathway. In this work, pre-experiment and bioinformatics analysis suggested that circ_0011058 may lead to the up-regulation of CUL4B expression by inhibiting miR-335-5p. Therefore, we studied whether circ_0011058 can promote the expression of CUL4B through sponging the miR-335-5p and further promote the pathological development of RA. Bioinformatics prediction, real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR), western blot (WB), double luciferase reporter gene and other relevant methods were used to study the inhibition of circ_0011058 on RA pathology and its molecular mechanism. Results showed that the expression of circ_0011058 was significantly increased in adjuvant arthritis (AA) rats and RA fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS). The knockout of circ_0011058 inhibited the proliferation of AA FLS and RA FLS, decreased the levels of interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), interleukin 6 (IL-6), interleukin 8 (IL-8), and inhibited the expression of matrix metalloproteinase 3 (MMP3), fibronectin, which showed that circ_0011058 had a strong role in promoting RA pathology. Furthermore, miR-335-5p expression was reduced in AA rats and RA FLS. The highly expressed circ_0011058 directly sponged the miR-335-5p, which led to the increase of CUL4B expression and promoted the activation of the GSK3β/canonical signalling pathway. Finally, we confirmed that miR-335-5p mediated the roles of circ_0011058 in promoting RA pathological development, which showed that the circ_0011058/miR-335-5p/CUL4B signal axis was involved in RA pathology. This work was of great significance for clarifying the roles of circ_0011058 in RA pathology, and further work was needed to establish whether circ_0011058 was a potential therapeutic target or diagnostic marker for RA.

CST2 promotes cell proliferation and regulates cell cycle by activating Wnt-β-catenin signalling pathway in serous ovarian cancer

BACKGROUND

Cystatin SA (CST2) plays multiple roles in different types of malignant tumours; however, its role in serous ovarian cancer (SOC) remains unclear. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the expression levels, survival outcomes, immune cell infiltration, proliferation, cell cycle, and underlying molecular mechanisms associated with the CST2 signature in SOC.

METHODS

The Cancer Genome Atlas database was used to acquire clinical information and CST2 expression profiles from patients with SOC. Wilcoxon rank-sum tests were used to compare CST2 expression levels between SOC and normal ovarian tissues. A prognostic assessment of CST2 was conducted using Cox regression analysis and the Kaplan-Meier method. Differentially expressed genes were identified using functional enrichment analysis. Immune cell infiltration was examined using a single-sample gene set enrichment analysis. Cell cycle characteristics and proliferation were assessed using a colony formation assay, flow cytometry, and a cell counting kit-8 assay. Western blots and quantitative reverse transcription PCR analyses were employed to examine CST2 expressions and related genes involved in the cell cycle and the Wnt-β-catenin signalling pathway.

RESULTS

Our findings revealed significant upregulation of CST2 in SOC, and elevated CST2 expression was correlated with advanced clinicopathological characteristics and unfavourable prognoses. Pathway enrichment analysis highlighted the association between the cell cycle and the Wnt signalling pathway. Moreover, increased CST2 levels were positively correlated with immune cell infiltration. Functionally, CST2 played vital roles in promoting cell proliferation, orchestrating the G1-to-S phase transition, and driving malignant SOC progression through activating the Wnt-β-catenin signalling pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

The elevated expression of CST2 may be related to the occurrence and progression of SOC by activating the Wnt-β-catenin pathway. Additionally, our findings suggest that CST2 is a promising novel biomarker with potential applications in therapeutic, prognostic, and diagnostic strategies for SOC.

Prostate cancer and the cell cycle: Focusing on the role of microRNAs

Prostate cancer is the most frequent solid tumor in terms of incidence and ranks second only to lung cancer in terms of cancer mortality among men. It has a considerably high mortality rate; around 375,000 deaths occurred worldwide in 2020. In 2024, the American Cancer Society estimated that the number of new prostate cancer cases will be around 299,010 cases, and the estimated deaths will be around 32,250 deaths only in the USA. Cell cycle dysregulation is inevitable in cancer etiology and is targeted by various therapies in cancer treatment. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, endogenous, non-coding regulatory molecules involved in both normal and abnormal cellular events. One of the cellular processes regulated by miRNAs is the cell cycle. Although there are some exceptions, tumor suppressor miRNAs could potentially arrest the cell cycle by downregulating several molecular machineries involved in catalyzing the cell cycle progression. In contrast, oncogenic miRNAs (oncomirs) help the cell cycle to progress by targeting various regulatory proteins such as retinoblastoma (Rb) or cell cycle inhibitors such as p21 or p27, and hence may contribute to prostate cancer progression; however, this is not always the case. In this review, we emphasize how a dysregulated miRNA expression profile is linked to an abnormal cell cycle progression in prostate cancer, which subsequently paves the way to a new therapeutic option for prostate cancer.

Mutual regulation between histone methyltransferase Suv39h1 and the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway promoted cell proliferation and inhibited apoptosis in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells exposed to hydroquinone

Hydroquinone (HQ), a metabolite of benzene, is frequently utilized as a surrogate for benzene in in vitro studies and is associated with the development of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In the hemotoxicity caused by benzene and HQ, cell apoptosis plays a key role. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying HQ are unknown. Studies have indicated that Suv39h1 is involved in regulating cell division and proliferation by regulating histone H3K9me3. Meanwhile, the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway also plays a significant role in cell proliferation and apoptosis. Therefore, this study was aimed at exploring the regulatory role of Suv39h1 and the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in the effects of HQ on bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), as well as its influence on cell proliferation and apoptosis. The results demonstrated that HQ elevated the levels of Suv39h1 and H3K9me3 and activated the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway by upregulating β-catenin, Wnt2b, C-myc, and Cyclin D1 and downregulating Wnt5a, resulting in an increase in cell growth and a decrease in apoptosis. Suv39h1 knockdown inhibited the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Meanwhile, inhibition of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway resulted in the down-regulation of Suv39h1 and H3K9me3 in BMSCs. They both promoted cell proliferation and inhibited apoptosis in the effects of HQ on BMSCs by downregulating the expression of Cyt-C, Bax, Caspase 3, and Caspase 9 and upregulating the expression of Bcl-xl. Therefore, we concluded that Suv39h1 and the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway may mutually regulate each other in the effects of HQ on BMSCs in order to ameliorate the altered function of BMSCs.

Targeting signaling pathways with andrographolide in cancer therapy (Review)

Terpenoids are a large group of naturally occurring organic compounds with a wide range of components. A phytoconstituent in this group, andrographolide, which is derived from a plant called Andrographis paniculate, offers a number of advantages, including anti-inflammatory, anticancer, anti-angiogenesis and antioxidant effects. The present review elucidates the capacity of andrographolide to inhibit signaling pathways, namely the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1), the Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT), phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), Wnt/β-catenin and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways, which are involved in cellular processes and responses such as the inflammatory response, apoptosis and angiogenesis. Inhibiting pathways enables andrographolide to exhibit its anticancer effects against breast, colorectal and lung cancer. The present review focuses on the anticancer effects of andrographolide, specifically in breast, colorectal and lung cancer through the NF-κB, HIF-1 and JAK/STAT signaling pathways. Therefore, the Google Scholar, PubMed and ScienceDirect databases were used to search for references to these prevalent types of cancer and the anticancer mechanisms of andrographolide associated with them. The following key words were used: Andrographolide, anticancer, JAK/STAT, HIF-1, NF-κB, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, Wnt/β-catenin and MAPK pathways, and the literature was limited to studies published between 2010 to 2023. The present review article provides details about the different involvements of signaling pathways in the anticancer mechanisms of andrographolide.

Protein ubiquitination in ovarian cancer immunotherapy: The progress and therapeutic strategy

Ovarian cancer is a common cancer for females, and the incidence and mortality rates are on the rise. Many treatment strategies have been developed for ovarian cancer, including chemotherapy and immunotherapy, but they are often ineffective and prone to drug resistance. Protein ubiquitination is an important class of post-translation modifications that have been found to be associated with various human diseases and cancer development. Recent studies have revealed that protein ubiquitination is involved in the progression of ovarian cancer and plays an important role in the tumor immune process. Moreover, the combination of ubiquitinase/deubiquitinase inhibitors and cancer immunotherapy approaches can effectively reduce treatment resistance and improve treatment efficacy, which provides new ideas for cancer treatment. Herein, we review the role of protein ubiquitination in relation to ovarian cancer immunotherapy and recent advances in the use of ubiquitinase/deubiquitinase inhibitors in combination with cancer immunotherapy.

MAFLD-related hepatocellular carcinoma: Exploring the potent combination of immunotherapy and molecular targeted therapy

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common cause of cancer-related mortality and morbidity globally, and with the prevalence of metabolic-related diseases, the incidence of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) related hepatocellular carcinoma (MAFLD-HCC) continues to rise with the limited efficacy of conventional treatments, which has created a major challenge for HCC surveillance. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and molecularly targeted drugs offer new hope for advanced MAFLD-HCC, but the evidence for the use of both types of therapy in this type of tumour is still insufficient. Theoretically, the combination of immunotherapy, which awakens the body's anti-tumour immunity, and targeted therapies, which directly block key molecular events driving malignant progression in HCC, is expected to produce synergistic effects. In this review, we will discuss the progress of immunotherapy and molecular targeted therapy in MAFLD-HCC and look forward to the opportunities and challenges of the combination therapy.

Role of Wnt/β-catenin pathway in cancer drug resistance: Insights into molecular aspects of major solid tumors

Adaptive resistance to conventional and targeted therapies remains one of the major obstacles in the effective management of cancer. Aberrant activation of key signaling mechanisms plays a pivotal role in modulating resistance to drugs. An evolutionarily conserved Wnt/β-catenin pathway is one of the signaling cascades which regulate resistance to drugs. Elevated Wnt signaling confers resistance to anticancer therapies, either through direct activation of its target genes or via indirect mechanisms and crosstalk over other signaling pathways. Involvement of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in cancer hallmarks like inhibition of apoptosis, promotion of invasion and metastasis and cancer stem cell maintenance makes this pathway a potential target to exploit for addressing drug resistance. Accumulating evidences suggest a critical role of Wnt/β-catenin pathway in imparting resistance across multiple cancers including PDAC, NSCLC, TNBC, etc. Here we present a comprehensive assessment of how Wnt/β-catenin pathway mediates cancer drug resistance in majority of the solid tumors. We take a deep dive into the Wnt/β-catenin signaling-mediated modulation of cellular and downstream molecular mechanisms and their impact on cancer resistance.

Anti-tumor efficacy of Calculus bovis: Suppressing liver cancer by targeting tumor-associated macrophages

Despite significant advances in our understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of liver cancer and the availability of novel pharmacotherapies, liver cancer remains the fourth leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Tumor relapse, resistance to current anti-cancer drugs, metastasis, and organ toxicity are the major challenges that prevent considerable improvements in patient survival and quality of life. Calculus bovis (CB), an ancient Chinese medicinal drug, has been used to treat various pathologies, including stroke, convulsion, epilepsy, pain, and cancer. In this editorial, we discuss the research findings recently published by Huang et al on the therapeutic effects of CB in inhibiting the development of liver cancer. Utilizing the comprehensive transcriptomic analyses, in vitro experiments, and in vivo studies, the authors demonstrated that CB treatment inhibits the tumor-promoting M2 phenotype of tumor-associated macrophages via downregulating Wnt pathway. While multiple studies have been performed to explore the molecular mechanisms regulated by CB, this study uniquely shows its role in modulating the M2 phenotype of macrophages present within the tumor microenvironment. This study opens new avenues of future investigations aimed at investigating this drug’s efficacy in various mouse models including the effects of combination therapy, and against drug-resistant tumors.

SFRP4 contributes to insulin resistance-induced polycystic ovary syndrome by triggering ovarian granulosa cell hyperandrogenism and apoptosis through the nuclear β-catenin/IL-6 signaling axis

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder characterized by chronic ovulation dysfunction and overproduction of androgens. Women with PCOS are commonly accompanied by insulin resistance (IR), which can impair insulin sensitivity and elevate blood glucose levels. IR promotes ovarian cysts, ovulatory dysfunction, and menstrual irregularities in women patients, leading to the pathogenesis of PCOS. Secreted frizzled-related protein 4 (SFRP4), a secreted glycoprotein, exhibits significantly elevated expression levels in obese individuals with IR and PCOS. Whereas, whether it plays a role in regulating IR-induced PCOS still has yet to be understood. In this study, we respectively established in vitro IR-induced hyperandrogenism in human ovarian granular cells and in vivo IR-induced PCOS models in mice to investigate the action mechanisms of SFRP4 in modulating IR-induced PCOS. Here, we revealed that SFRP4 expression levels in both mRNA and protein were remarkably upregulated in the IR-induced hyperandrogenism with elevated testosterone in the human ovarian granulosa cell line KGN. Under normal conditions without hyperandrogenism, overexpressing SFRP4 triggered the remarkable elevation of testosterone along with the increased nuclear translocation of β-catenin, cell apoptosis and proinflammatory cytokine IL-6. Furthermore, we found that phytopharmaceutical disruption of SFRP4 by genistein ameliorated IR-induced increase in testosterone in ovarian granular cells, and IR-induced PCOS in high-fat diet obese mice. Our study reveals that SFRP4 contributes to IR-induced PCOS by triggering ovarian granulosa cell hyperandrogenism and apoptosis through the nuclear β-catenin/IL-6 signaling axis. Elucidating the role of SFRP4 in PCOS may provide a novel therapeutic strategy for IR-related PCOS therapy.

WNT2B high‑expressed fibroblasts induce the fibrosis of IBD by promoting NK cells secreting IL-33

Fibrosis is an important pathological change in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), but the mechanism has yet to be elucidated. WNT2B high‑expressed fibroblasts are enriched in IBD intestinal tissues, although the precise function of this group of fibroblasts remains unclear. This study investigated whether WNT2B high‑expressed fibroblasts aggravated intestinal tissue damage and fibrosis. Our study provides evidence that WNT2B high‑expressed fibroblasts and NK cells were enriched in colitis tissue of patients with IBD. WNT2B high‑expressed fibroblasts secreted wnt2b, which bound to FZD4 on NK cells and activated the NF-κB and STAT3 pathways to enhance IL-33 expression. TCF4, a downstream component of the WNT/β-catenin pathway, bound to p65 and promoted binding to IL-33 promoter. Furthermore, Salinomycin, an inhibitor of the WNT/β-catenin pathway, inhibited IL-33 secretion in colitis, thereby reducing intestinal inflammation.Knocking down WNT2B reduces NK cell infiltration and IL-33 secretion in colitis, and reduce intestinal inflammation and fibrosis. In conclusion, WNT2B high‑expressed fibroblasts activate NK cells by secreting wnt2b, which activates the WNT/β-catenin and NF-κB pathways to promote IL-33 expression and secretion, potentially culminating in the induction of colonic fibrosis in IBD. KEY MESSAGES: WNT2B high-expressed fibroblasts and NK cells are enriched in colitis tissue, promoting NK cells secreting IL-33. Wnt2b activates NF-κB and STAT3 pathways promotes IL-33 expression by activating p65 and not STAT3. syndrome TCF4 binds to p65 and upregulates the NF- κB pathway. Salinomycin reduces NK cell infiltration and IL-33 secretion in colitis. Knocking down WNT2B mitigates inflammation and fibrosis in chronic colitis.

Biomarker discovery in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) for personalized treatment and enhanced prognosis

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading contributor to cancer-related deaths worldwide and presents significant challenges in diagnosis and treatment due to its heterogeneous nature. The discovery of biomarkers has become crucial in addressing these challenges, promising early detection, precise diagnosis, and personalized treatment plans. Key biomarkers, such as alpha fetoprotein (AFP) glypican 3 (GPC3) and des gamma carboxy prothrombin (DCP) have shown potential in improving clinical results. Progress in proteomic technologies, including next-generation sequencing (NGS), mass spectrometry, and liquid biopsies detecting circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), has deepened our understanding of HCC's molecular landscape. Immunological markers, like PD-L1 expression and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), also play a crucial role in guiding immunotherapy decisions. Despite these advancements, challenges remain in biomarker validation, standardization, integration into clinical practice, and cost-related barriers. Emerging technologies like single-cell sequencing and machine learning offer promising avenues for further exploration. Continued investment in research and collaboration among researchers, healthcare providers, and policymakers is vital to harness the potential of biomarkers fully, ultimately revolutionizing HCC management and improving patient outcomes through personalized treatment approaches.

Genome-wide identification of 769 G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) genes from the marine medaka Oryzias melastigma

The marine medaka Oryzias melastigma is a useful fish model for marine and estuarine ecotoxicology studies and can be applied to field-based population genomics because of its distribution in Asian estuaries and other coastal areas. We identified 769 full-length G protein-coupled receptor genes in the O. melastigma genome and classified them into five distinct classes. A phylogenetic comparison of GPCR genes in O. melastigma to humans and two other small fish species revealed a high-level orthological relationship. Purinergic and chemokine receptors were highly differentiated in humans whereas significant differentiation of chemosensory receptors was evident in fish species. Our results suggest that the GPCR gene families among the species used in this study exhibit evidence of sporadic evolutionary processes. These results may help improve our understanding of the advanced repertoires of GPCR and expand our knowledge of physiological mechanisms of fish in response to various environmental stimuli.

Tissue engineering approaches for dental pulp regeneration: The development of novel bioactive materials using pharmacological epigenetic inhibitors

The drive for minimally invasive endodontic treatment strategies has shifted focus from technically complex and destructive root canal treatments towards more conservative vital pulp treatment. However, novel approaches to maintaining dental pulp vitality after disease or trauma will require the development of innovative, biologically-driven regenerative medicine strategies. For example, cell-homing and cell-based therapies have recently been developed in vitro and trialled in preclinical models to study dental pulp regeneration. These approaches utilise natural and synthetic scaffolds that can deliver a range of bioactive pharmacological epigenetic modulators (HDACis, DNMTis, and ncRNAs), which are cost-effective and easily applied to stimulate pulp tissue regrowth. Unfortunately, many biological factors hinder the clinical development of regenerative therapies, including a lack of blood supply and poor infection control in the necrotic root canal system. Additional challenges include a need for clinically relevant models and manufacturing challenges such as scalability, cost concerns, and regulatory issues. This review will describe the current state of bioactive-biomaterial/scaffold-based engineering strategies to stimulate dentine-pulp regeneration, explicitly focusing on epigenetic modulators and therapeutic pharmacological inhibition. It will highlight the components of dental pulp regenerative approaches, describe their current limitations, and offer suggestions for the effective translation of novel epigenetic-laden bioactive materials for innovative therapeutics.

Fostering tissue engineering and regenerative medicine to treat musculoskeletal disorders in bone and muscle

The musculoskeletal system, which is vital for movement, support, and protection, can be impaired by disorders such as osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, and muscular dystrophy. This review focuses on the advances in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, specifically aimed at alleviating these disorders. It explores the roles of cell therapy, particularly Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) and Adipose-Derived Stem Cells (ADSCs), biomaterials, and biomolecules/external stimulations in fostering bone and muscle regeneration. The current research underscores the potential of MSCs and ADSCs despite the persistent challenges of cell scarcity, inconsistent outcomes, and safety concerns. Moreover, integrating exogenous materials such as scaffolds and external stimuli like electrical stimulation and growth factors shows promise in enhancing musculoskeletal regeneration. This review emphasizes the need for comprehensive studies and adopting innovative techniques together to refine and advance these multi-therapeutic strategies, ultimately benefiting patients with musculoskeletal disorders.

Role of circular RNAs in preeclampsia (Review)

Preeclampsia (PE) is a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy characterized by new-onset hypertension and proteinuria after 20 weeks of gestation, which affects 3-8% of pregnant individuals worldwide each year. Prevention, diagnosis and treatment of PE are some of the most important problems faced by obstetrics. There is growing evidence that circular RNAs (circRNAs) are involved in the pathogenesis of PE. The present review summarizes the research progress of circRNAs and then describes the expression patterns of circRNAs in PE and their functional mechanisms affecting PE development. The role of circRNAs as biomarkers for the diagnosis of PE, and the research status of circRNAs in PE are summarized in the hope of finding novel strategies for the prevention and treatment of PE.

Identifying alkaline phosphatase inhibitory potential of cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors: Insights from molecular docking, MD simulations, molecular expression analysis in MCF-7 breast cancer cell line and in vitro investigations

Alkaline phosphatases (APs, EC 3.1.3.1) belong to a superfamily of biological macromolecules that dephosphorylate many phosphometabolites and phosphoproteins and their overexpression is intricated in the spread of cancer to liver and bones, neuronal disorders including Alzheimer's disease (AD), inflammation and others. It was hypothesized that cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) selective inhibitors may possess anti-APs potential and may be involved in anticancer proceedings. Three COX-2 inhibitors including nimesulide, piroxicam and lornoxicam were evaluated for the inhibition of APs using in silico and in vitro methods. Molecular docking studies against tissue nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (TNAP) offered the best binding affinities for nimesulide (-11.14 kcal/mol) supported with conventional hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions. MD simulations against TNAP for 200 ns and principal component analysis (PCA) reiterated the stability of ligand-receptor complexes. Molecular expression analysis of TNAP enzyme in the breast cancer cell line MCF-7 exhibited 0.24-fold downregulation with 5 μM nimesulide as compared with 0.26-fold standard 10 μM levamisole. In vitro assays against human placental AP (hPAP) displayed potent inhibitions of these drugs with IC50 values of 0.52 ± 0.02 μM to 3.46 ± 0.13 μM and similar results were obtained for bovine intestinal AP (bIAP). The data when generalized collectively emphasizes that the inhibition of APs by COX-2 inhibitors provides another target to work on the development of anticancer drugs.

Danggui Shaoyao San Alleviates Early Cognitive Impairment in Alzheimer's Disease Mice Through IRS1/GSK3β/Wnt3a-β-Catenin Pathway

INTRODUCTION

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by Amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. We explored the potential mechanism by which Danggui Shaoyao San (DSS) modulates central glucose metabolism via the insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS1)/glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK3β)/Wnt3a-β-catenin pathway, thereby exerting protective effects on cognitive functions.

METHODS

In vitro, HT22 cells were induced with streptozotocin (STZ) to investigate the impact of GSK3β on pathway transduction. The active components in the DSS stock solution were validated using mass spectrometry. Subsequently, an AD model in C57BL/6J mice was established through STZ injection into both ventricles. The success of the model was validated behaviorally and pathologically. The Morris Water Maze (MWM) test, immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, quantitative reverse transcription-PCR, and 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) were employed to evaluate the influence of DSS on memory and pathological changes in AD.

RESULTS

The DSS stock solution, rich in active components, ameliorated the memory deficits in AD mice in the MWM. In vitro, GSK3β exhibited regulatory control over Wnt and β-catenin, with GSK3β inhibition mitigating β-amyloid and tau redundancies at protein and gene levels, facilitating signal transduction. In vivo, DSS impacted key targets in the IRS1/GSK3β/Wnt3a-β-catenin pathway, mitigated senile plaques resulting from amyloid β (Aβ) deposition and neurofiber tangles induced by tau hyperphosphorylation, and alleviated the decline in central glucose metabolism observed in FDG-PET.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that DSS potentially confers cognitive protection by alleviating central hypoglycemia through the IRS1/GSK3β/Wnt3a-β-catenin pathway. This may serve as a promising therapeutic avenue for AD.

Wnt/β-catenin signaling inhibits oxidative stress-induced ferroptosis to improve interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome by reducing NF-κB

BACKGROUND

Interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) is a bladder syndrome of unknown etiology. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) plays a major role in ferroptosis and bladder dysfunction of IC/BPS, while the role of ferroptosis in IC/BPS progression is still unclear. This study aims to investigate the role and mechanism of ROS-induced ferroptosis in IC/BPS using cell and rat model.

METHODS

We collected IC/BPS patient bladder tissue samples and established a LPS-induced IC/BPS rat model (LRM). The level of oxidative stress and ferroptosis in IC/BPS patients and LRM rats was analyzed. Function and regulatory mechanism of ferroptosis in IC/BPS were explored by in vitro and in vivo experiments.

RESULTS

The patients with IC/BPS showed mast cells and inflammatory cells infiltration in bladder epithelial tissues. Expression of NRF2 was up-regulated, and GPX4 was decreased in IC/BPS patients compared with normal tissues. IC model cells underwent oxidative stress, which induced ferroptosis. These above results were validated in LRM rat models, and inhibition of ferroptosis ameliorated bladder dysfunction in LRM rats. Wnt/β-catenin signaling was deactivated in IC/BPS patients and animals, and activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling reduced cellular free radical production, thereby inhibited ferroptosis in IC model cells. Mechanistically, the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway inhibited oxidative stress-induced ferroptosis by down-regulating NF-κB, thus contributing to recover IC/BPS both in vitro and in vivo.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrate for the first time that oxidative stress-induced ferroptosis plays an important role in the pathology of IC/BPS. Mechanistically, the Wnt/β-catenin signaling suppressed oxidative stress-induced ferroptosis by down-regulating NF-κB to improve bladder injury in IC/BPS.

Wnt-5a-Receptor Tyrosine Kinase-Like Orphan Receptor 2 Signaling Provokes Metastatic Colonization and Angiogenesis in Renal Cell Carcinoma, and Prunetin Supresses the Axis Activation

Wnt-5a is a protein encoded by the WNT5A gene and is a ligand for the receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 2 (ROR2). However, its biological impact on clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) remains unclear. In this study, the prognostic significance of concurrent WNT5A and ROR2 expression levels was observed to predict unfavorable overall survival and disease-specific survival. High Wnt-5a expression was detected in a ccRCC cell line panel but not in HK-2 cells, a normal proximal tubular cell line. Inhibition of DNA methyltransferase by 5-azacytidine in 786-O and Caki-2 cells resulted in Wnt-5a up-regulation, indicating potential epigenetic modification. Furthermore, there was a repression of cell movement in vitro and metastatic colonization in vivo on WNT5A and ROR2 knockdown. Suppressions of angiogenesis in vivo and tubular-like structure formation in endothelial cells in vitro were also observed after silencing WNT5A and ROR2 expression. In addition, alteration in the downstream gene signature of the Wnt-5a-ROR2 signaling was similar to that in metastasis-associated gene 1-β-catenin axis. Moreover, prunetin treatment reversed the gene signature derived from Wnt-5a-ROR2 signaling activation and to abolish ccRCC cell migration and proliferation. Overall, this study demonstrates the clinical and functional significance of the Wnt-5a-ROR2 axis and identifies prunetin as a potential precision medicine for patients with ccRCC harboring aberrant Wnt-5a-ROR2 signaling pathways.

Targeting SOCS2 alleviates myocardial fibrosis by reducing nuclear translocation of β-catenin

BACKGROUND

Myocardial fibrosis is an important pathological feature of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). The roles of SOCS2 in fibrosis of different organs are controversial. Herein, we investigated the function and potential mechanism of SOCS2 in myocardial fibrosis.

METHODS

Bioinformatics, immunohistochemistry (IHC), immunofluorescence (IF), western blot (WB), real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR (qPCR), rat primary myocardial fibroblasts (rCFs) culture, doxorubicin (DOX) induced mouse dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) model, and in vivo adeno-associated virus (AAV) infection were used to explore the role of SOCS2 in DCM.

RESULTS

Bioinformatics analysis showed that SOCS2 was positively correlated with fibrosis related factors. SOCS2 was significantly upregulated in patients and mice with DCM. In vivo experiments showed that targeted inhibition of cardiac SOCS2 could improve mouse cardiac function and alleviate myocardial fibrosis. Further research demonstrated that SOCS2 promoted the transformation of myofibroblasts. Knockdown of SOCS2 reduced the nuclear localization of β-catenin, which inhibited the fibrogenic effect of Wnt/β-catenin pathway. In addition, bioinformatics analysis suggested that lymphoid enhancer binding factor 1 (LEF1) was significantly positively correlated with SOCS2. Finally, dual luciferase assays demonstrated that LEF1 could bind to the promoter region of SOCS2, thereby mediating its transcriptional activation.

CONCLUSION

SOCS2 could activate the Wnt/β-catenin by regulating the nuclear translocation of β-catenin, which induces the transcriptional activation of SOCS2. Overall, these results indicated a positive feedback activation phenomenon between SOCS2, β-catenin and LEF1 in DCM. These results suggested that inhibition of SOCS2 could effectively alleviate the progression of myocardial fibrosis and improve cardiac function.

Research Progress of Chinese Medicine in the Regulation of Liver Fibrosis-Related Signaling Pathways

Liver fibrosis is a common complication of chronic liver disease, significantly affecting patients' quality of life and potentially leading to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Despite advancements in modern medicine, the treatment of liver fibrosis remains limited and challenging. Thus, identifying new therapeutic strategies is of great clinical importance. Signaling pathways related to liver fibrosis play a crucial regulatory role in immune response and inflammation. Aberrant activation of specific pathways, such as the NF-[Formula: see text]B signaling pathway, results in the overexpression of genes associated with liver inflammation and fibrosis, thereby promoting the progression of liver fibrosis. Chinese medicine offers unique potential advantages as a therapeutic approach. Recent studies have increasingly demonstrated that certain Chinese medicines can effectively treat liver fibrosis by regulating relevant signaling pathways. The active ingredients in these medicines can inhibit hepatic inflammatory responses and fibrotic processes by interfering with these pathways, thus reducing the severity of liver fibrosis. This paper aims to investigate the mechanisms of Chinese medicine in treating liver fibrosis and its modulation of related signaling pathways. Additionally, it discusses the prospects of the clinical application of these treatments and provides valuable references for further research and clinical practice.

Alpha-1-antitrypsin improves anastomotic healing in intestinal epithelial cells model

PURPOSE

Intestinal anastomosis is a routine procedure in pediatric surgery, with leakage being a significant complication. Human alpha1-antitrypsin (AAT), whose physiological serum concentrations range from 0.9-2.0 mg/ml, is known to accelerate wound healing and stimulate the expression of cell proliferation-related genes. We hypothesized that AAT might enhance anastomotic healing.

METHODS

In a monolayer of non-tumorigenic HIEC-6 epithelial cells derived from fetal intestine a scratch was created. Standard medium without (control) or with AAT (0.5 and 1 mg/ml) was added. Cells were observed using a Life-Cell Imaging System. Cell proliferation was assessed, and the expression of proliferation-related genes was measured by qRT-PCR.

RESULTS

In the presence of AAT, the scratch closed significantly faster. Cells treated with 1 mg/ml AAT showed 53% repopulation after 8 h and 97% after 18 h, while control cells showed 24% and 60% repopulation, respectively (p < 0.02). The treatment with AAT induced HIEC-6-cell proliferation and significantly increased the mRNA-expression of CDKN1A, CDKN2A, ANGPTL4, WNT3 and COL3A1 genes. AAT did not change the mRNA-expression of CXCL8 but decreased levels of IL-8 as compared to controls.

CONCLUSION

At physiological concentrations AAT accelerates the confluence of intestinal cells and increases cell proliferation. The local administration of AAT may bear therapeutic potential to improve anastomotic healing.

Cellular localization of a variant RAPGEF5 protein associated with idiopathic epilepsy risk in the Belgian shepherd

The Wnt signaling pathway is critical for normal embryonic development. Disruptions in the Wnt signaling pathway have been linked to neurological disorders. The RAPGEF5 protein is a partner in Wnt signaling and a RAPGEF5 3-bp insertion is associated with increased risk for idiopathic epilepsy in the Belgian shepherd dog. The 3-bp insertion risk variant introduces an alanine residue predicted to disrupt the protein. Wildtype and the risk variant RAPGEF5 cDNAs were cloned into green fluorescent protein (GFP) expression vectors and transfected into canine kidney cells. The cellular localization of each GFP-labeled RAPGEF5 protein was assessed. Variant RAPGEF5 protein was altered in its localization from that of the wildtype protein and rather than localized to the nucleus and cytoplasm as seen for the wildtype, it was predominantly found in the cytoplasm. Belgian shepherds with the risk variant for RAPGEF5 may have altered Wnt signaling due to modified intracellular localization which in turn could thereby contribute to the expression of idiopathic epilepsy.

Sbno1 mediates cell-cell communication between neural stem cells and microglia through small extracellular vesicles

BACKGROUND

Neural stem cells (NSCs) play a crucial role in the progress of ischemic stroke. Research on zebrafish embryonic demonstrates an association between Strawberry Notch 1 (Sbno1) and central nervous system development. However, the regulation and underlying mechanism of Sbno1 in NSCs have not been studied yet. Here, we investigated the role and the mechanism of Sbno1 in NSCs development and the potential therapeutic value of Sbno1 in ischemic stroke.

METHODS

Adeno-associated virus (AAV) was used for overexpression or knockdown of Sbno1 in vitro or in vivo. A mouse model of MCAO was established to evaluate the neuroprotective effects of AAV-Sbno1, including balance beam test, rotarod test, and strength evaluation. H&E and immunofluorescence assessed neuronal impairment. Western blot and RT-qPCR were used to detect the expression of Sbno1 and its downstream target genes. RNA-seq and western blot were performed to explore further molecular mechanisms by which Sbno1 promoted endogenous repair of NSCs and macrophages M2 polarization. CCK8 was conducted to assess the effects of Sbno1 on NSCs proliferation. The impact of Sbno1 on NSCs apoptosis was evaluated by flow cytometry. NSCs derived from small extracellular vesicles (sEV) were obtained using ultracentrifugation and identified through nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) and western blot analysis.

RESULTS

Our results showed that Sbno1 is highly expressed in the central nervous system, which plays a crucial role in regulating the proliferation of NSCs through the PI3k-Akt-GSK3β-Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. In addition, with overexpression of Sbno1 in the hippocampus, post-stroke behavioral scores were superior to the wild-type mice, and immunofluorescence staining revealed an increased number of newly generated neurons. sEV released by NSCs overexpressing Sbno1 inhibited neuroinflammation, which mechanistically impaired the activation of the microglial NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways.

CONCLUSIONS

Our studies indicate that sbno1 promotes the proliferation of NSCs and enhances endogenous repairing through the PI3k-Akt-GSK3β-Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Additionally, NSCs overexpressing sbno1 improve ischemic stroke recovery and inhibit neuroinflammation after ischemia by sEV through the MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways.

Mechanism of immune checkpoint inhibitor resistance in colorectal cancer patients and its interventional strategies

The remarkable efficacy demonstrated by immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in melanoma treatment has driven their widespread use in the treatment of a variety of solid tumours, and they have now become one of the mainstays of oncology treatment, especially in the field of colorectal cancer, where they have demonstrated great potential. However, in long-term large-sample studies, it was found that the response to ICIs is low, and there are problems of primary and acquired resistance, which seriously affect their therapeutic effect. In this paper, we will review the mechanism of resistance to ICIs in patients with colorectal cancer and the progress in research of interventional strategies for ICI resistance, aiming to provide new ideas for the solution of the problem of clinical drug resistance to ICIs.

Repurposing metabolic regulators: antidiabetic drugs as anticancer agents

Drug repurposing in cancer taps into the capabilities of existing drugs, initially designed for other ailments, as potential cancer treatments. It offers several advantages over traditional drug discovery, including reduced costs, reduced development timelines, and a lower risk of adverse effects. However, not all drug classes align seamlessly with a patient's condition or long-term usage. Hence, repurposing of chronically used drugs presents a more attractive option. On the other hand, metabolic reprogramming being an important hallmark of cancer paves the metabolic regulators as possible cancer therapeutics. This review emphasizes the importance and offers current insights into the repurposing of antidiabetic drugs, including metformin, sulfonylureas, sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP-4) inhibitors, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs), thiazolidinediones (TZD), and α-glucosidase inhibitors, against various types of cancers. Antidiabetic drugs, regulating metabolic pathways have gained considerable attention in cancer research. The literature reveals a complex relationship between antidiabetic drugs and cancer risk. Among the antidiabetic drugs, metformin may possess anti-cancer properties, potentially reducing cancer cell proliferation, inducing apoptosis, and enhancing cancer cell sensitivity to chemotherapy. However, other antidiabetic drugs have revealed heterogeneous responses. Sulfonylureas and TZDs have not demonstrated consistent anti-cancer activity, while SGLT2 inhibitors and DPP-4 inhibitors have shown some potential benefits. GLP-1RAs have raised concerns due to possible associations with an increased risk of certain cancers. This review highlights that further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the potential anti-cancer effects of these drugs and to establish their efficacy and safety in clinical settings.

PBA2, a novel inhibitor of the β-catenin/CBP pathway, eradicates chronic myeloid leukemia including BCR-ABL T315I mutation

BACKGROUND

BCR-ABL is a constitutively active tyrosine kinase that stimulates multiple downstream signaling pathways to promote the survival and proliferation of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) cells. The clinical application of specific BCR-ABL tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) has led to significantly improved prognosis and overall survival in CML patients compared to previous treatment regimens. However, direct targeting of BCR-ABL does not eradicate CML cells expressing T315I-mutated BCR-ABL. Our previous study revealed that inhibiting CREB binding protein (CBP) is efficacious in activating β-catenin/p300 signaling, promoting cell differentiation and inducing p53/p21-dependent senescence regardless of BCR-ABL mutation status. We hypothesize that the specific inhibition of CBP may represent a novel strategy to promote β-catenin/p300-mediated differentiation and suppress cancer cell proliferation for treating CML patients.

METHODS

The anticancer efficacy of PBA2, a novel CBP inhibitor, in CML cells expressing wild-type or T315I-mutated BCR-ABL was investigated in vitro and in vivo. Cell differentiation was determined by the nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) reduction assay. The extent of cellular senescence was assessed by senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-Gal) activity. Cytotoxicity was measured by MTS assay. RNA interference was performed to evaluate the cell proliferation effects of CBP knockdown. The interaction of β-catenin and CBP/p300 was examined by co-immunoprecipitation assay.

RESULTS

PBA2 exhibited significantly higher anticancer effects than imatinib in CML cells harboring either wild-type or T315I-mutated BCR-ABL both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, PBA2 reduced CBP expression and promoted β-catenin-p300 interaction to induce cell differentiation and senescence.

CONCLUSION

Our data supported the rational treatment of CML by inhibiting the β-catenin/CBP pathway regardless of BCR-ABL mutation status.

Targeting CircAURKA prevents colorectal cancer progression via enhancing CTNNB1 protein degradation

Tumor progression of colorectal cancer (CRC) seriously affects patient prognosis. For CRC patients with advanced-stage disease, it is still necessary to continuously explore more effective targeted therapeutic drugs. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are involved in the regulation of tumor biology. We screened circAURKA, which was significantly highly expressed in CRC by previous high-throughput RNA sequencing. In vitro experiments were performed to investigate the effect of the circRNA on the proliferation and metastasis of HCT116 and SW480 cells. In addition, we used the EdU assay, Transwell assay, nude mouse xenograft tumor model and nude mouse tail vein metastasis model to examine the effect of circAURKA on the proliferation and metastasis of CRC. Mechanistically, fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH), RNA pull-down, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP), protein coimmunoprecipitation (co-IP) experiments and animal models were performed to confirm the underlying mechanisms of circAURKA. CircAURKA was significantly highly expressed in CRC tissues and colorectal cells and mainly present in the cytoplasm. The circRNA promoted the proliferation and metastasis of CRC cells in vitro and in vivo. In terms of the molecular mechanism, circAURKA inhibited the degradation of the CTNNB1 protein by promoting the interaction between ACLY and the CTNNB1 protein, thereby promoting the proliferation and metastasis of CRC cells. In addition, circAURKA stability was regulated by m6A methylation modification. This study revealed that circAURKA promoted the proliferation and metastasis of CRC by inhibiting CTNNB1 protein degradation, providing a basis for the development of targeted drugs to control CRC progression.

Cancer Development and Progression in Patients with Heart Failure

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The co-occurrence of heart failure (HF) and cancer represents a complex and multifaceted medical challenge. Patients with prevalent cardiovascular disease (CVD), particularly HF, exhibit an increased risk of cancer development, raising questions about the intricate interplay between these two prevalent conditions. This review aims to explore the evolving landscape of cancer development in patients with HF, shedding light on potential mechanisms, risk factors, and clinical implications.

RECENT FINDINGS

Epidemiological data suggests higher cancer incidences and higher cancer mortality in HF patients, which are potentially more common in patients with HF with preserved ejection fraction due to related comorbidities. Moreover, recent preclinical data identified novel pathways and mediators including the protein SerpinA3 as potential drivers of cancer progression in HF patients, suggesting HF as an individual risk factor for cancer development. The review emphasizes preliminary evidence supporting cancer development in patients with HF, which offers several important clinical interventions such as cancer screening in HF patients, prevention addressing both HF and cancer, and molecular targets to treat cancer. However, there is need for more detailed understanding of molecular and cellular cross-talk between cancer and HF which can be derived from prospective assessments of cancer-related outcomes in CV trials and preclinical research of molecular mechanisms.

Klotho in pregnancy and intrauterine development-potential clinical implications: a review from the European Renal Association CKD-MBD Working Group

Intrauterine development is crucial for life-long health; therefore, elucidation of its key regulators is of interest for their potential prognostic and therapeutic implications. Originally described as a membrane-bound anti-aging protein, Klotho has evolved as a regulator of numerous functions in different organ systems. Circulating Klotho is generated by alternative splicing or active shedding from cell membranes. Recently, Klotho was identified as a regulator of placental function, and while Klotho does not cross the placental barrier, increased levels of circulating α-Klotho have been identified in umbilical cord blood compared with maternal blood, indicating that Klotho may also play a role in intrauterine development. In this narrative review, we discuss novel insights into the specific functions of the Klotho proteins in the placenta and in intrauterine development, while summarizing up-to-date knowledge about their structures and functions. Klotho plays a role in stem cell functioning, organogenesis and haematopoiesis. Low circulating maternal and foetal levels of Klotho are associated with preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, and an increased perinatal risk for newborns, indicating a potential use of Klotho as biomarker and therapeutic target. Experimental administration of Klotho protein indicates a neuro- and nephroprotective potential, suggesting a possible future role of Klotho as a therapeutic agent. However, the use of Klotho as intervention during pregnancy is as yet unproven. Here, we summarize novel evidence, suggesting Klotho as a key regulator for healthy pregnancies and intrauterine development with promising potential for clinical use.

lncRNAs as prognostic markers and therapeutic targets in cuproptosis-mediated cancer

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as crucial regulators in various cellular processes, including cancer progression and stress response. Recent studies have demonstrated that copper accumulation induces a unique form of cell death known as cuproptosis, with lncRNAs playing a key role in regulating cuproptosis-associated pathways. These lncRNAs may trigger cell-specific responses to copper stress, presenting new opportunities as prognostic markers and therapeutic targets. This paper delves into the role of lncRNAs in cuproptosis-mediated cancer, underscoring their potential as biomarkers and targets for innovative therapeutic strategies. A thorough review of scientific literature was conducted, utilizing databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect, with search terms like 'lncRNAs,' 'cuproptosis,' and 'cancer.' Studies were selected based on their relevance to lncRNA regulation of cuproptosis pathways and their implications for cancer prognosis and treatment. The review highlights the significant contribution of lncRNAs in regulating cuproptosis-related genes and pathways, impacting copper metabolism, mitochondrial stress responses, and apoptotic signaling. Specific lncRNAs are potential prognostic markers in breast, lung, liver, ovarian, pancreatic, and gastric cancers. The objective of this article is to explore the role of lncRNAs as potential prognostic markers and therapeutic targets in cancers mediated by cuproptosis.

The efficacy of light-guiding microneedle patch for stimulating hair growth in androgenetic alopecia

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common form of hair loss characterized by miniaturization of hair follicles. Low-level light therapy (LLLT) and microneedling have shown potential in promoting hair regrowth. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of an innovative light-emitting diode (LED) helmet cooperated with a novel light-guiding microneedle patch (LMNP) for stimulating hair growth in AGA. In this randomized clinical trial, 16 AGA patients received treatments using light-guiding microneedle patches (LMNPs) illuminated by a LED helmet equipped with green (522 nm) and red (633 nm) LEDs, delivering 50 mW/cm2 power and 40 J/cm2 energy. Treatments were applied weekly for 24 weeks, targeting the frontal recession area. The right side of the scalp was treated with green light and the left with red light, each combined with a LMNP featuring 900 µm height needles at a density of 105 per square centimeter. Hair density and diameter, along with patient and physician satisfaction scores, were assessed monthly. Both red and green LED treatments with LMNP, significantly enhanced hair density and diameter. Satisfaction scores, as reported by both physicians and participants, increased over time. Comparative analyses revealed no statistically significant differences in average satisfaction scores or in changes in hair density and diameter between the groups by the end of the study. Additionally, no serious adverse effects were reported, highlighting the safety of the treatments. The combined Light sources which is portable LED helmet and LMNPs shows promise as a non-invasive, effective treatment for AGA, with similar efficacy between red and green wavelengths.

NPLOC4 aggravates heart failure by regulating ROS and mitochondrial function

Heart failure (HF) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, necessitating the discovery of new therapeutic targets. NPLOC4 is known as an endoplasmic reticulum protein involved in protein degradation and cellular stress responses. Herein, NPLOC4 was investigated for its role in HF using a transverse aortic constriction (TAC) mouse model and an Angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced H9c2 cardiomyocyte model. Transcriptomic analysis revealed NPLOC4 upregulation in HF. NPLOC4 knockdown in the TAC model inhibited HF progression, as evidenced by reduced cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis. Subsequent knockdown experiments showed the relievement in heart failure phenotypes, reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and enhanced mitochondrial function caused by NPLOC4 depletion in Ang II-induced H9c2 cells. STRING analysis predicted ERO1α as a potential NPLOC4 interactor, with further studies identifying that NPLOC4 knockdown increases ERO1α expression and disrupts mitochondria-associated membranes (MAMs). Additionally, NPLOC4 knockdown modulated the β-catenin/GSK3β pathway, enhancing mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy. These findings suggest NPLOC4 as a promising therapeutic target for HF.

Natural Compounds for Bone Remodeling: Targeting osteoblasts and relevant signaling pathways

In the process of bone metabolism and bone remodeling, bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) differentiate into osteoblasts (OBs) under certain conditions to enable the formation of new bone, and normal bone reconstruction and pathological bone alteration are closely related to the differentiation and proliferation functions of OBs. Osteogenic differentiation of BM-MSCs involves multiple signaling pathways, which function individually but interconnect intricately to form a complex signaling regulatory network. Natural compounds have fewer adverse effects than chemically synthesized drugs, optimize bone health, and are more suitable for long-term use. In this paper, we focus on OBs, summarize the current research progress of signaling pathways related to OBs differentiation, and review the molecular mechanisms by which chemically synthesized drugs with potential anti-osteoporosis properties regulate OBs-mediated bone formation.

Hydrogelation of peptides and carnosic acid as regulators of adaptive immunity against postoperative recurrence of cutaneous melanoma

The in-situ activation of adaptive immunity at the surgical site has demonstrated remarkable efficacy in inhibiting various forms of tumour recurrence and even holds the promise of a potential cure. However, extensive research and bioinformatic analysis conducted in this study have unveiled the formidable challenge posed by melanoma-intrinsic β-catenin signaling, which hinders the infiltration of cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (CTLs) and their subsequent anti-tumour action. To overcome this obstacle, a β-catenin antagonist called carnosic acid (CA) was co-assembled with a RADA-rich peptide to create a nanonet-derived hydrogel known as Supra-gelδCA. This injectable hydrogel is designed to be retained at the surgical site while simultaneously promoting hemostasis. Importantly, Supra-gelδCA directly releases CA to the site of residual tumour lesions, thereby enhancing infiltration of CTLs and subsequently activating adaptive immunity. Consequently, it effectively suppresses postoperative recurrence of skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM) in vivo. Collectively, the presented Supra-gelδCA not only provides an efficacious immunotherapy strategy for regulating adaptive immunity by overcoming the obstacle posed by melanoma-intrinsic β-catenin signaling-induced absence of CTLs but also offers a clinically translatable hydrogel that revolutionizes post-surgical management of SKCM.

A comprehensive review of PRAME and BAP1 in melanoma: Genomic instability and immunotherapy targets

In a thorough review of the literature, the complex roles of PRAME (preferentially expressed Antigen of Melanoma) and BAP1 (BRCA1-associated protein 1) have been investigated in uveal melanoma (UM) and cutaneous melanoma. High PRAME expression in UM is associated with poor outcomes and correlated with extraocular extension and chromosome 8q alterations. BAP1 mutations in the UM indicate genomic instability and a poor prognosis. Combining PRAME and BAP1 immunohistochemical staining facilitates effective risk stratification. Mechanistically, both genes are associated with genomic instability, making them promising targets for cancer immunotherapy. Hypomethylation of PRAME, specifically in its promoter regions, is critical for UM progression and contributes to epigenetic reprogramming. Additionally, miR-211 regulation is crucial in melanoma and has therapeutic potential. The way PRAME changes signaling pathways provides clues about the cause of cancer due to genomic instability related to modifications in DNA repair. Inhibition of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1) and PARP-2 in cells expressing PRAME could lead to potential therapeutic applications. Pathway enrichment analysis underscores the significance of PRAME and BAP1 in melanoma pathogenesis.

scMMO-atlas: a single cell multimodal omics atlas and portal for exploring fine cell heterogeneity and cell dynamics

Single-cell multimodal sequencing parallelly captures multiple modalities of the same cell, providing unparalleled insights into cell heterogeneity and cell dynamics. For example, joint profiling of chromatin accessibility and transcriptome from the same single cell (scATAC + RNA) identified new cell subsets within the well-defined clusters. However, lack of single-cell multimodal omics (scMMO) database has led to data fragmentation, seriously hindering access, utilization and mining of scMMO data. Here, we constructed a scMMO atlas by collecting and integrating various scMMO data, then constructed scMMO database and portal called scMMO-atlas (https://www.biosino.org/scMMO-atlas/). scMMO-atlas includes scATAC + RNA (ISSAAS-seq, SNARE-seq, paired-seq, sci-CAR, scCARE-seq, 10X Multiome and so on), scRNA + protein, scATAC + protein and scTri-modal omics data, with 3 168 824 cells from 27 cell tissues/organs. scMMO-atlas offered an interactive portal for visualization and featured analysis for each modality and the integrated data. Integrated analysis of scATAC + RNA data of mouse cerebral cortex in scMMO-atlas identified more cell subsets compared with unimodal omics data. Among these new cell subsets, there is an early astrocyte subset highly expressed Grm3, called Astro-Grm3. Furthermore, we identified Ex-L6-Tle4-Nrf1, a progenitor of Ex-L6-Tle4, indicating the statistical power provided by the big data in scMMO-atlas. In summary, scMMO-atlas offers cell atlas, database and portal to facilitate data utilization and biological insight.

Vanillin Mitigates the MPTP-Induced α-Synucleinopathy in a Mouse Model of Parkinson's Disease: Insights into the Involvement of Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling

BACKGROUND

The abnormal aggregation of α-synuclein (α-syn) in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) region of the brain is characteristic of Parkinson's disease (PD), leading to the selective demise of neurons. Modifications in the post-translational processing of α-syn, phosphorylation at Ser129 in particular, are implicated in α-syn aggregation and are considered key hallmarks of PD. Furthermore, dysregulated Wnt/β-catenin signaling, influenced by glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta (GSK-3β), is implicated in PD pathogenesis. Inhibition of GSK-3β holds promise in promoting neuroprotection by enhancing the Wnt/β-catenin pathway.

METHODS

In our previous study utilizing 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+)-administered differentiated SH-SY5Y cells and a PD mouse model, we explored Vanillin's neuroprotective properties and related mechanisms against neuronal loss induced by MPP+/1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) administration. In the current study, we elucidated the mitigating effects of Vanillin on motor impairments, P-Ser129-α-syn expression, Wnt/β-catenin signaling, and autophagic neuron death induced by MPTP in a mouse model of PD by performing motor function tests, western blot analysis and immunostaining.

RESULTS

Our results show that Vanillin effectively modulated the motor dysfunctions, GSK-3β expression, and activity, activated the Wnt/β-catenin signaling, and reduced autophagic neuronal demise in the MPTP-lesioned mice, highlighting its neuroprotective effects.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings underscore the complex interplay between α-syn pathology, GSK-3β, Wnt/β-catenin signaling, and autophagic-cell death in PD pathogenesis. Targeting these pathways, particularly with Vanillin, can be a promising therapeutic strategy for restoring dopaminergic (DA-ergic) neuronal homeostasis and slowing the progression of PD. Further research is crucial to resolving existing disputes and translating these discoveries into effective therapeutic interventions for PD patients.

KRT19 is regulated by miR-642a-5p and promotes pancreatic cancer progression through the Wnt/β-catenin pathway

Pancreatic cancer (PC) has a really poor prognosis, and we urgently need to delve deeper into its molecular mechanisms. In this study, we found that KRT19 expression was significantly increased in PC tissues and cell lines and it was linked to unfavorable outcomes for patients. Overexpression of KRT19 boosted the proliferation, migration, and invasion of PC cells. Additionally, miR-374b-5p targets KRT19, inhibiting the activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway (WBC), which in turn suppresses epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the progression of PC. Further experiments showed that under hypoxic conditions, HIF1α was positively correlated with KRT19, promoting its expression. The loss of miR-642a-5p and the upregulation of KRT19 induced by hypoxia can significantly favor PC progression. Plus, the increased expression of KRT19 might act as a predictive marker and potential target for PC treatment.

Cuproptosis in microsatellite stable colon cancer cells affects the cytotoxicity of CD8+T through the WNT signaling pathway

The microsatellite stable (MSS) colon cancer (CC) has long been considered resistant to immunotherapy. Cuproptosis, as a novel form of cell death, may interact with tumor immunity. This project focused on the impact of cuproptosis on the cytotoxicity of CD8+T in MSS CC, aiming to provide effective clues for improving the treatment strategy of MSS CC. The study developed an MSS CC cuproptosis model using 50 nM elesclomol and 1 μM CuCl2. Cuproptotic SW480 cells were directly co-cultured with CD8+ T cells. Cuproptosis levels were assessed via intracellular copper ion detection, Western blot, and confocal laser scanning microscopy. CCK-8, Hochest/PI staining, CFSE cell proliferation assay, LDH cytotoxicity detection, and ELISA were used to evaluate CD8+ T cell immune activity and cytotoxicity. Transcriptome sequencing and bioinformatics analysis identified regulated signals in cuproptotic SW480 cells. A rescue experiment utilized a WNT pathway activator (BML-284). PD-L1 expression in cells/membranes was analyzed using qRT-PCR, Western blot, and flow cytometry. NSG mice were immunoreconstituted, and the effects of cuproptosis on immune infiltration and cancer progression in MSS CC mice were assessed using ELISA and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Treatment with 50 nM elesclomol and 1 μM CuCl2 significantly increased cuproptosis in SW480 cells. Co-culture with CD8+ T cells enhanced their cytotoxicity. Sequencing revealed cuproptosis-mediated modulation of immune and inflammatory pathways, including WNT signaling. Rescue experiments showed downregulation of WNT signaling in cuproptotic SW480 cells. Indirectly, CD8+ T cell immune function was enhanced by reducing PD-L1 expression. In mice, cuproptosis resulted in increased infiltration of CD8+ T cells in tumor tissue, leading to delayed cancer progression compared to the control group. Cuproptosis in MSS CC cells enhances the cytotoxicity of CD8+ T cells, which may be achieved through downregulation of the WNT signaling pathway and decreased expression of PD-L1. In the future, drugs that can induce cuproptosis may be a promising approach to improve MSS CC immunotherapy.

Proinflammatory Microenvironment in Adenocarcinoma Tissue of Colorectal Carcinoma

Cancer-promoting proinflammatory microenvironment influences colorectal cancer (CRC) development. We examined the biomarkers of inflammation, intestinal differentiation, and DNA activity correlated with the clinical parameters to observe progression and prognosis in the adenocarcinoma subtype of CRC. Their immunohistology, immunoblotting, and RT-PCR analyses were performed in the adenocarcinoma and neighboring healthy tissues of 64 patients with CRC after routine colorectal surgery. Proinflammatory nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) signaling as well as interleukin 6 (IL-6) and S100 protein levels were upregulated in adenocarcinoma compared with nearby healthy colon tissue. In contrast to nitrotyrosine expression, the oxidative stress marker 8-Hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) was increased in adenocarcinoma tissue. Biomarkers of intestinal differentiation β-catenin and mucin 2 (MUC2) were inversely regulated, with the former upregulated in adenocarcinoma tissue and positively correlated with tumor marker CA19-9. Downregulation of MUC2 expression correlated with the increased 2-year survival rate of patients with CRC. Proliferation-related mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling was activated, and Ki67 frequency was three-fold augmented in positive correlation with metastasis and cancer stage, respectively. Conclusion: We demonstrated a parallel induction of oxidative stress and inflammation biomarkers in adenocarcinoma tissue that was not reflected in the neighboring healthy colon tissue of CRC. The expansiveness of colorectal adenocarcinoma was confirmed by irregular intestinal differentiation and elevated proliferation biomarkers, predominantly Ki67. The origin of the linked inflammatory factors was in adenocarcinoma tissue, with an accompanying systemic immune response.

LSD1 is a promising target to treat cancers by modulating cell stemness

As the first discovered histone demethylase, LSD1 plays a vital role in maintaining pathological processes such as cancer, infection, and immune diseases. Based on previous researches, LSD1 is highly expressed in sorts of tumor cells such as acute myeloid leukemia, non-small cell lung cancer, prostate cancer, breast cancer and gastric cancer, etc. Therefore, targeting LSD1 is a prospective strategy for tumor treatment. Cancer stem cells could preserve self-renewal, cell proliferation, cell migration and malignant phenotype. So, the reduction of tumor cell stemness can effectively inhibit the growth of tumor cells, which may be a new strategy for the treatment of cancers. Up to now, there exist many researches confirming the significant role of LSD1 in regulating the stemness characteristics such as embryonic stem cells differentiation. Many reports show that inhibition of LSD1 effectively decreases the property of cancer cell stemness. However, there lacks a detailed review about the relationship between LSD1 and cancer cell stemness. Herein, in this review, we summarized the mechanisms how LSD1 regulates cell stemness comprehensively. In addition, some related inhibitors targeting LSD1 to reduce the proliferation characteristics of cancer stem cells are also described.

Insights into the molecular changes of adipocyte dedifferentiation and its future research opportunities

Recent studies have challenged the traditional belief that mature fat cells are irreversibly differentiated and revealed they can dedifferentiate into fibroblast-like cells known as dedifferentiated fat (DFAT) cells. Resembling pluripotent stem cells, DFAT cells hold great potential as a cell source for stem cell therapy. However, there is limited understanding of the specific changes that occur following adipocyte dedifferentiation and the detailed regulation of this process. This review explores the epigenetic, genetic, and phenotypic alterations associated with DFAT cell dedifferentiation, identifies potential targets for clinical regulation and discusses the current applications and challenges in the field of DFAT cell research.

Inhalation Anesthetics Play a Janus-Faced Role in Self-Renewal and Differentiation of Stem Cells

Inhalation anesthesia stands as a pivotal modality within clinical anesthesia practices. Beyond its primary anesthetic effects, inhaled anesthetics have non-anesthetic effects, exerting bidirectional influences on the physiological state of the body and disease progression. These effects encompass impaired cognitive function, inhibition of embryonic development, influence on tumor progression, and so forth. For many years, inhaled anesthetics were viewed as inhibitors of stem cell fate regulation. However, there is now a growing appreciation that inhaled anesthetics promote stem cell biological functions and thus are now regarded as a double-edged sword affecting stem cell fate. In this review, the effects of inhaled anesthetics on self-renewal and differentiation of neural stem cells (NSCs), embryonic stem cells (ESCs), and cancer stem cells (CSCs) were summarized. The mechanisms of inhaled anesthetics involving cell cycle, metabolism, stemness, and niche of stem cells were also discussed. A comprehensive understanding of these effects will enhance our comprehension of how inhaled anesthetics impact the human body, thus promising breakthroughs in the development of novel strategies for innovative stem cell therapy approaches.

WISP1 and Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor in Respiratory Inflammation: Novel Insights and Therapeutic Potentials for Asthma and COPD

Recent advancements highlight the intricate interplay between the extracellular matrix (ECM) and immune responses, notably in respiratory diseases such as asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The ECM, a dynamic structural framework within tissues, orches-trates a plethora of cellular processes, including immune cell behavior and tissue repair mecha-nisms. WNT1-inducible-signaling pathway protein 1 (WISP1), a key ECM regulator, controls immune cell behavior, cytokine production, and tissue repair by modulating integrins, PI3K, Akt, β-catenin, and mTOR signaling pathways. WISP1 also induces macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) expression via Src kinases and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) activation. MIF, through its wide range of activities, enhances inflammation and tissue restructuring. Rec-ognized for its versatile roles in regulating the immune system, MIF interacts with multiple immune components, such as the NLRP3 inflammasome, thereby sustaining inflammatory pro-cesses. The WISP1-MIF axis potentially unveils complex molecular mechanisms governing im-mune responses and inflammation. Understanding the intricate roles of WISP1 and MIF in the pathogenesis of chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma and COPD could lead to the identi-fication of novel targets for therapeutic intervention to alleviate disease severity and enhance patient outcomes.

MANF serves as a novel hepatocyte factor to promote liver regeneration after 2/3 partial hepatectomy via doubly targeting Wnt/β-catenin signaling

Liver regeneration is an intricate pathophysiological process that has been a subject of great interest to the scientific community for many years. The capacity of liver regeneration is very critical for patients with liver diseases. Therefore, exploring the mechanisms of liver regeneration and finding good ways to improve it are very meaningful. Mesencephalic astrocyte-derived neurotrophic factor (MANF), a member of newly identified neurotrophic factors (NTFs) family, extensively expresses in the liver and has demonstrated cytoprotective effects during ER stress and inflammation. However, the role of MANF in liver regeneration remains unclear. Here, we used hepatocyte-specific MANF knockout (MANFHep-/-) mice to investigate the role of MANF in liver regeneration after 2/3 partial hepatectomy (PH). Our results showed that MANF expression was up-regulated in a time-dependent manner, and the peak level of mRNA and protein appeared at 24 h and 36 h after 2/3 PH, respectively. Notably, MANF knockout delayed hepatocyte proliferation, and the peak proliferation period was delayed by 24 h. Mechanistically, our in vitro results showed that MANF physically interacts with LRP5 and β-catenin, two essential components of Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Specifically, as a cofactor, MANF binds to the extracellular segment of LRP5 to activate Wnt/β-catenin signaling. On the other hand, MANF interacts with β-catenin to stabilize cytosolic β-catenin level and promote its nuclear translocation, which further enhance the Wnt/β-catenin signaling. We also found that MANF knockout does not affect the c-Met/β-catenin complex after 2/3 PH. In summary, our study confirms that MANF may serve as a novel hepatocyte factor that is closely linked to the activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway via intracellular and extracellular targets.