Inducing spin polarization via Co doping in the BiVO4 cell to enhance the built-in electric field for promotion of photocatalytic CO2 reduction

The efficiency of CO2 photocatalytic reduction is severely limited by inefficient separation and sluggish transfer. In this study, spin polarization was induced and built-in electric field was strengthened via Co doping in the BiVO4 cell to boost photocatalytic CO2 reduction. Results showed that owing to the generation of spin-polarized electrons upon Co doping, carrier separation and photocurrent production of the Co-doped BiVO4 were enhanced. CO production during CO2 photocatalytic reduction from the Co-BiVO4 was 61.6 times of the BiVO4. Notably, application of an external magnetic field (100 mT) further boosted photocatalytic CO2 reduction from the Co-BiVO4, with 68.25 folds improvement of CO production compared to pristine BiVO4. The existence of a built-in electric field (IEF) was demonstrated through density functional theory (DFT) simulations and kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM). Mechanism insights could be elucidated as follows: doping of magnetic Co into the BiVO4 resulted in increased the number of spin-polarized photo-excited carriers, and application of a magnetic field led to an augmentation of intrinsic electric field due to a dipole shift, thereby extending carrier lifetime and suppressing charges recombination. Additionally, HCOO- was a crucial intermediate in the process of CO2RR, and possible pathways for CO2 reduction were proposed. This study highlights the significance of built-in electric fields and the important role of spin polarization for promotion of photocatalytic CO2 reduction.

Clinical features and outcomes of advanced HER2+ esophageal/GEJ cancer with brain metastasis

BACKGROUND

Brain metastasis (BRM) is uncommon in gastroesophageal cancer. As such, clinicopathologic and molecular determinants of BRM and impact on clinical outcome remain incompletely understood.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed clinicopathologic data from advanced esophageal/gastroesophageal junction (E/GEJ) patients at Johns Hopkins from 2003 to 2021. We investigated the association between several clinical and molecular features and the occurrence of BRM, with particular focus on human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) overexpression. Survival outcomes and time to BRM onset were also evaluated.

RESULTS

We included 515 patients with advanced E/GEJ cancer. Tumors were 78.3% esophageal primary, 82.9% adenocarcinoma, 31.0% HER2 positive. Cumulative incidence of BRM in the overall cohort and within HER2+ subgroup was 13.8% and 24.3%, respectively. HER2 overexpression was associated with increased risk of BRM [odds ratio 2.45; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.10-5.46]. On initial presentation with BRM, 50.7% had a solitary brain lesion and 11.3% were asymptomatic. HER2+ status was associated with longer median time to onset of BRM (14.0 versus 6.3 months, P < 0.01), improved median progression free survival on first-line systemic therapy (hazard ratio 0.35, 95% CI 0.16-0.80), and improved median overall survival (hazard ratio 0.20, 95% CI 0.08-0.54) in patients with BRM.

CONCLUSION

HER2 overexpression identifies a gastroesophageal cancer molecular subtype that is significantly associated with increased risk of BRM, though with later onset of BRM and improved survival likely reflecting the impact of central nervous system-penetrant HER2-directed therapy. The prevalence of asymptomatic and solitary brain lesions suggests that brain surveillance for HER2+ patients warrants prospective investigation.

[Influential factors of non-motor symptoms prognosis in Parkinson's disease patients undergoing deep brain stimulation]

Objective: To investigate the effects of electrode activated contact location, volume of tissue activated (VTA) and age on non-motor symptoms, such as emotional symptoms and cognitive function, in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients with deep brain stimulation (DBS). Methods: PD patients who underwent DBS of subthalamic nucleus (STN) at the Department of Functional Neurosurgery of Beijing Tiantan Hospital from September 1, 2020 to August 31, 2022 were retrospectively enrolled. The International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society-Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS), Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA), Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and Mini-Mental State Examination Scales (MMSE) were used at the preoperative, 1-month and 12-month postoperative time points. In this study, patients were divided into middle-aged (age<60 years,n=39) and elderly (age≥60 years,n=62) groups to investigate the effect of age factor on the clinical outcome of surgery. Lead-DBS software was used to convert the patients' electrode reconstruction results into Montreal standard space, and the patients were divided into sensorimotor(n=43) and combined groups(n=53) according to the distribution of activation contact locations in the subzones of the STN. In addition, the patients were divided into a cognitive improvement group(n=57)and a cognitive deterioration group(n=44) based on the results of MoCA at 12 months. The positional information of the electrode activation contacts was collected and the VTA was calculated to analyze the effects on electrode activation electroshock location and activated tissue volume on patients' non-motor symptoms. Results: A total of 101 patients with PD were enrolled, including 46 males and 55 females, aged (62.6±8.4) years. Middle-aged patients had significantly higher MoCA scores, delayed recall scores, attention scores, and naming scores than older patients at 12 months postoperatively (all P<0.05). At 12-month follow-up, the improvement rate of MoCA score, HAMA score and HAMD score were -1.77%±20.36%, 39.65%±42.91% and 36.23%±45.45% respectively in sensorimotor group. At 12-month follow-up, the improvement rate of MoCA score, HAMA score and HAMD score was 11.69%±22.24%, 16.62%±68.10% and 2.30%±95.04% respectively in the combined group, and the difference between the two groups was statistically significant (MoCA: P=0.002; HAMA: P=0.040; HAMD: P=0.033) The distribution of VTA in the sensory motor area and marginal area of the left hemisphere STN in patients with improved cognitive function was significantly smaller than that in the deterioration group [(60.53±52.04)mm³vs (84.55±61.00)mm³, P=0.035; (41.81±33.36)mm³vs (59.05±45.46)mm³, P=0.030]. Conclusion: The effect of STN-DBS on emotional symptoms and cognitive function in PD patients is influenced by various factors and is closely related to the patient's age, electrode activation contact location and VTA.

Cucurbitacin I Reverses Tumor-Associated Macrophage Polarization to Affect Cancer Cell Metastasis

The tumor microenvironment plays a critical role in tumor progression and immune regulation. As one of the most important components of the tumor microenvironment, macrophages have become a new therapeutic target for inhibiting tumor progression. Despite the well-documented anticancer activity of cucurbitacin I, its effect on macrophages remains unclear. In this study, we established a coculture system of macrophages and cancer cells under hypoxic conditions to simulate the tumor-promoting environment mediated by M2-like macrophages. We determined whether cucurbitacin I modulates M2-like polarization in macrophages in vitro and conducted RNA sequencing to identify gene expression changes induced by cucurbitacin I in macrophages. The results indicated a remarkable inhibition of the M2-like polarization phenotype in macrophages following treatment with cucurbitacin I, which was accompanied by the significant downregulation of heme oxygenase-1. Moreover, we found that cucurbitacin I-treated macrophages reduced the migration of cancer cells by inhibiting the M2 polarization in vitro. These findings highlight the potential of cucurbitacin I as a therapeutic agent that targets M2-like macrophages to inhibit cancer cell metastasis. Our study provides novel insights into the intricate interplay among macrophage polarization, cucurbitacin I, and heme oxygenase-1, thereby opening new avenues for cancer treatment.

Combined Inhibition of UBE2C and PLK1 Reduce Cell Proliferation and Arrest Cell Cycle by Affecting ACLY in Pan-Cancer

Various studies have shown that the cell-cycle-related regulatory proteins UBE2C, PLK1, and BIRC5 promote cell proliferation and migration in different types of cancer. However, there is a lack of in-depth and systematic research on the mechanism of these three as therapeutic targets. In this study, we found a positive correlation between the expression of UBE2C and PLK1/BIRC5 in the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database, revealing a potential combination therapy candidate for pan-cancer. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), Western blotting (WB), cell phenotype detection, and RNA-seq techniques were used to evidence the effectiveness of the combination candidate. We found that combined interference of UBE2C with PLK1 and UBE2C with BIRC5 affected metabolic pathways by significantly downregulating the mRNA expression of IDH1 and ACLY, which was related to the synthesis of acetyl-CoA. By combining the PLK1 inhibitor volasertib and the ACLY inhibitor bempedoic acid, it showed a higher synergistic inhibition of cell viability and higher synergy scores in seven cell lines, compared with those of other combination treatments. Our study reveals the potential mechanisms through which cell-cycle-related genes regulate metabolism and proposes a potential combined targeted therapy for patients with higher PLK1 and ACLY expression in pan-cancer.

Proof-of-Concept and Characterization of Photosynthetic Bacteria as Radiation Enhancers

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Molecular O2 is a potent chemical radiosensitizer. Re-sensitizing hypoxic tumor tissues with O2 can enhance the therapeutic efficacy of ionizing radiation. Photosynthetic cyanobacteria (S. elongatus) or cyanos are currently being explored for various bioengineering applications due to their ability to produce oxygen when exposed to light. Here, we explore the use of these bacteria to replenish molecular O2 content inside hypoxic tumors, which in turn will enhance the effect of radiation. To assess the feasibility of this approach, we used A549 lungs cancer cell spheroids as models, which are three-dimensional (3D) in vitro cell aggregates that mimic tumors in terms of oxygen and nutrient gradients.

MATERIALS/METHODS

The cyanos were grown in 12:12h light /dark conditions in a bacterial shaker incubator (37ºC and 150 rpm). Biocompatibility of cyanos co-cultured withA549 monolayers and spheroids was estimated using the MTT assay and Calcein AM staining. The level of hypoxia content in the spheroids were measured using the Image IT green hypoxia dye. Spheroids co-cultured with cyanos were subjected to full spectrum lights for different time periods. After light incubation, different dosages of radiation (4, 6 and 12 Gy) were delivered to the spheroids using an X-ray irradiator (225 kBp, 13 mA). Post irradiation, the spheroids were harvested and analyzed based on Nuc green dye staining to estimate the dead cell population and clonogenic survival to estimate the post-therapy survival fraction.

RESULTS

Under exposure to full spectrum LED light, cyanos increased the concentration of dissolved O2 in the medium, eventually reaching fourfold higher levels (i.e., ∼240% of dissolved O2). Addition of cyanos to mammalian cell cultures did not result in detectable toxicity for either cellular monolayers or 3D spheroids. Cell viability was 100% even at the highest tested concentration of 1 × 107 number of cyanos cultured with 10,000 A549 cells. This confirmed the biocompatibility of the cyanos in cell culture environment. Post irradiation, as depicted from the Nuc green dye staining, was twofold higher (p<0.01) in spheroids co-cultured with cyanos and exposed to light. Surprisingly, in the clonogenic assay, this group of spheroids exhibited a higher survival fraction compared to the control group. This unexpected outcome warrants further investigation of the potentially radioprotecting effect of cyanos. Altogether, this supports the potential therapeutic efficacy of the cyanos in hypoxic tumors.

CONCLUSION

Cyanos in the presence of light are effective in enhancing radiation-induced cell death. While clinical translation is still far down the road, such a method could be employed in the context of brachytherapy or superficial radiotherapy to overcome tumor hypoxia.

Unveiling the stealthy tactics: mycoplasma's immune evasion strategies

Mycoplasmas, the smallest known self-replicating organisms, possess a simple structure, lack a cell wall, and have limited metabolic pathways. They are responsible for causing acute or chronic infections in humans and animals, with a significant number of species exhibiting pathogenicity. Although the innate and adaptive immune responses can effectively combat this pathogen, mycoplasmas are capable of persisting in the host, indicating that the immune system fails to eliminate them completely. Recent studies have shed light on the intricate and sophisticated defense mechanisms developed by mycoplasmas during their long-term co-evolution with the host. These evasion strategies encompass various tactics, including invasion, biofilm formation, and modulation of immune responses, such as inhibition of immune cell activity, suppression of immune cell function, and resistance against immune molecules. Additionally, antigen variation and molecular mimicry are also crucial immune evasion strategies. This review comprehensively summarizes the evasion mechanisms employed by mycoplasmas, providing valuable insights into the pathogenesis of mycoplasma infections.

Reversible bonding of microfluidics: Review and applications

With the development of microfluidic technology, new materials and fabrication methods have been constantly invented in the field of microfluidics. Bonding is one of the key steps for the fabrication of enclosed-channel microfluidic chips, which have been extensively explored by researchers globally. The main purpose of bonding is to seal/enclose fabricated microchannels for subsequent fluid manipulations. Conventional bonding methods are usually irreversible, and the forced detachment of the substrate and cover plate may lead to structural damage to the chip. Some of the current microfluidic applications require reversible bonding to reuse the chip or retrieve the contents inside the chip. Therefore, it is essential to develop reversible bonding methods to meet the requirements of various applications. This review introduces the most recent developments in reversible bonding methods in microfluidics and their corresponding applications. Finally, the perspective and outlook of reversible bonding technology were discussed in this review.

[Exosomes secreted from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells promote pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma growth by transferring miRNAs]

Objective: To observe the effects of exosomes derived from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells on the proliferation and invasion of pancreatic cancer cells, and to analyze the contents of exosomes and explore the mechanisms affecting pancreatic cancer cells. Methods: Exosomes extracted from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells were added to pancreatic cancer cells BxPC3, Panc-1 and mouse models of pancreatic cancer, respectively. The proliferative activity and invasion abilities of BxPC3 and Panc-1 cells were measured by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) and Transwell assays. The expressions of miRNAs in exosomes were detected by high-throughput sequencing. GO and KEGG were used to analyze the related functions and the main metabolic pathways of target genes with high expressions of miRNAs. Results: The results of CCK-8 cell proliferation assay showed that the absorbance of BxPC3 and Panc-1 cells in the hucMSCs-exo group was significantly higher than that in the control group [(4.68±0.09) vs. (3.68±0.01), P<0.05; (5.20±0.20) vs. (3.45±0.17), P<0.05]. Transwell test results showed that the number of invasion cells of BxPC3 and Panc-1 in hucMSCs-exo group was significantly higher than that in the control group (129.40±6.02) vs. (89.40±4.39), P<0.05; (134.40±7.02) vs. (97.00±6.08), P<0.05. In vivo experimental results showed that the tumor volume and weight in the exosomes derived from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hucMSCs-exo) group were significantly greater than that in the control group [(884.57±59.70) mm(3) vs. (695.09±57.81) mm(3), P<0.05; (0.94±0.21) g vs. (0.60±0.13) g, P<0.05]. High-throughput sequencing results showed that miR-148a-3p, miR-100-5p, miR-143-3p, miR-21-5p and miR-92a-3p were highly expressed. GO and KEGG analysis showed that the target genes of these miRNAs were mainly involved in the regulation of glucosaldehylation, and the main metabolic pathways were ascorbic acid and aldehyde acid metabolism, which were closely related to the development of pancreatic cancer. Conclusion: Exosomes derived from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells can promote the growth of pancreatic cancer cells and the mechanism is related to miRNAs that are highly expressed in exosomes.

KAT2A/E2F1 Promotes Cell Proliferation and Migration via Upregulating the Expression of UBE2C in Pan-Cancer

Various studies have shown that lysine acetyltransferase 2A (KAT2A), E2F transcription factor 1 (E2F1), and ubiquitin conjugating enzyme E2 C (UBE2C) genes regulated the proliferation and migration of tumor cells through regulating the cell cycle. However, there is a lack of in-depth and systematic research on their mechanisms of action. This study analyzed The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) to screen potential candidate genes and the regulation network of KAT2A and E2F1 complex in pan-cancer. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and Western blotting (WB), cell phenotype detection, immunofluorescence co-localization, chromatin immunoprecipitation assay (ChIP), and RNA-Seq techniques were used to explore the functional of a candidate gene, UBE2C. We found that the expression of these three genes was significantly higher in more than 10 tumor types compared to normal tissue. Moreover, UBE2C was mainly expressed in tumor cells, which highlighted the impacts of UBE2C as a specific therapeutic strategy. Moreover, KAT2A and E2F1 could promote cell proliferation and the migration of cancer cells by enhancing the expression of UBE2C. Mechanically, KAT2A was found to cooperate with E2F1 and be recruited by E2F1 to the UBE2C promoter for elevating the expression of UBE2C by increasing the acetylation level of H3K9.

Functional heart and brain changes in acute coronary syndromes

Aims

To investigate whether there are functional brain differences, or differences in global network measures, between patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and non-obstructive coronary arteries and patients with an ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and healthy controls.

Methods and results

In this single centre, prospective cohort study, all patients &lt;80 years who presented to a tertiary cardiac centre with a suspected acute coronary syndrome and who had non-obstructive coronary arteries on invasive angiography were approached for inclusion. Age and sex matched patients presenting with a STEMI and a further group of healthy volunteers were recruited as control groups. All patients received routine clinical care and investigations and underwent additional psychological questionnaires, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and functional brain imaging within 14 days of admission. Image pre-processing and analysis was undertaken in a blinded fashion.

72 participants, in addition to 27 STEMI controls and 28 healthy controls, were recruited. Median age in the participant group was 57 years (IQR 47–66 years) and patients were scanned 6 days (IQR 3–8 days) from admission. Patients with ACS and non-obstructive arteries had increased functional connectivity in the default mode network and reduced connectivity in the central executive network compared to controls (Figure 1). They also had higher anxiety scores compared to STEMI and healthy controls and higher depression and stress scores compared to healthy controls (Figure 2). There was no difference in any global network measure between participants and age and sex matched controls however high anxiety or stress scores were associated with lower global efficiency in patients with ACS and non-obstructive coronary arteries but not in controls (Figure 2).

Conclusion

Patients with ACS and non-obstructive coronary arteries are distinct from both the STEMI and healthy population in terms of their psychological and neurofunctional state and this may have important future therapeutic implications for patients.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Foundation. Main funding source(s): James Tudor FoundationRosetrees Trust

Mussel-Inspired Hydrogels for Fluoride Delivery and Caries Prevention

Fluoride agents hold promise for the repair and prevention of caries lesions, but their interaction with enamel is often hampered and diminished because of the dynamic wet environment in the oral cavity, which affects the efficacy of fluoride delivery and limits treatment success. We herein developed a mussel-inspired wet adhesive fluoride system (denoted TS@NaF) fabricated by the self-assembly of tannic acid (TA), silk fibroin (SF), and sodium fluoride (NaF). TS@NaF demonstrated remarkable biological stability and biocompatibility, showed reliable wet adhesion, released fluoride ions (F−) topically, and induced significant deposition of calcium fluoride (CaF2) onto enamel in vitro. Furthermore, TS@NaF provided an anticaries effect in vitro and induced a detectable increase in enamel mineral density. Advanced fluoride-releasing bioadhesives are therefore promising candidates for caries prevention and highlight the great potential of mussel-inspired dental materials in clinical applications.

A score of DNA damage repair pathway with the predictive ability for chemotherapy and immunotherapy is strongly associated with immune signaling pathway in pan-cancer

DNA damage repair (DDR) is critical in maintaining normal cellular function and genome integrity and is associated with cancer risk, progression, and therapeutic response. However, there is still a lack of a thorough understanding of the effects of DDR genes’ expression level in cancer progression and therapeutic resistance. Therefore, we defined a tumor-related DDR score (TR-DDR score), utilizing the expression levels of 20 genes, to quantify the tumor signature of DNA damage repair pathways in tumors and explore the possible function and mechanism for the score among different cancers. The TR-DDR score has remarkably predictive power for tumor tissues. It is a more accurate indicator for the response of chemotherapy or immunotherapy combined with the tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) and G2M checkpoint score than the pre-existing predictors (CD8 or PD-L1). This study points out that the TR-DDR score generally has positive correlations with patients of advanced-stage, genome-instability, and cell proliferation signature, while negative correlations with inflammatory response, apoptosis, and p53 pathway signature. In the context of tumor immune response, the TR-DDR score strongly positively correlates with the number of T cells (CD4+ activated memory cells, CD8+ cells, T regs, Tfh) and macrophages M1 polarization. In addition, by difference analysis and correlation analysis, COL2A1, MAGEA4, FCRL4, and ZIC1 are screened out as the potential modulating factors for the TR-DDR score. In summary, we light on a new biomarker for DNA damage repair pathways and explore its possible mechanism to guide therapeutic strategies and drug response prediction.

Evaluation of prognostic risk models for postoperative pulmonary complications in adult patients undergoing major abdominal surgery: a systematic review and international external validation cohort study

BACKGROUND

Stratifying risk of postoperative pulmonary complications after major abdominal surgery allows clinicians to modify risk through targeted interventions and enhanced monitoring. In this study, we aimed to identify and validate prognostic models against a new consensus definition of postoperative pulmonary complications.

METHODS

We did a systematic review and international external validation cohort study. The systematic review was done in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. We searched MEDLINE and Embase on March 1, 2020, for articles published in English that reported on risk prediction models for postoperative pulmonary complications following abdominal surgery. External validation of existing models was done within a prospective international cohort study of adult patients (≥18 years) undergoing major abdominal surgery. Data were collected between Jan 1, 2019, and April 30, 2019, in the UK, Ireland, and Australia. Discriminative ability and prognostic accuracy summary statistics were compared between models for the 30-day postoperative pulmonary complication rate as defined by the Standardised Endpoints in Perioperative Medicine Core Outcome Measures in Perioperative and Anaesthetic Care (StEP-COMPAC). Model performance was compared using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROCC).

FINDINGS

In total, we identified 2903 records from our literature search; of which, 2514 (86·6%) unique records were screened, 121 (4·8%) of 2514 full texts were assessed for eligibility, and 29 unique prognostic models were identified. Nine (31·0%) of 29 models had score development reported only, 19 (65·5%) had undergone internal validation, and only four (13·8%) had been externally validated. Data to validate six eligible models were collected in the international external validation cohort study. Data from 11 591 patients were available, with an overall postoperative pulmonary complication rate of 7·8% (n=903). None of the six models showed good discrimination (defined as AUROCC ≥0·70) for identifying postoperative pulmonary complications, with the Assess Respiratory Risk in Surgical Patients in Catalonia score showing the best discrimination (AUROCC 0·700 [95% CI 0·683-0·717]).

INTERPRETATION

In the pre-COVID-19 pandemic data, variability in the risk of pulmonary complications (StEP-COMPAC definition) following major abdominal surgery was poorly described by existing prognostication tools. To improve surgical safety during the COVID-19 pandemic recovery and beyond, novel risk stratification tools are required.

FUNDING

British Journal of Surgery Society.

Dynamics of Endocytosis and Degradation of Antibody-Drug Conjugate T-DM1 in HER2 Positive Cancer Cells

Purpose

T-DM1 is an antibody–drug conjugate (ADC) consisting of trastuzumab and DM1 linked together. T-DM1 binds to human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2) in tumors and then triggers the endocytosis of T-DM1 and release of payload. Therefore, endocytosis efficacy is considered as a critical step for the initiation of T-DM1 therapy; however, the endocytosis mechanism of T-DM1 remains poorly understood. Meanwhile, HER2 is regarded as an internalization-resistant receptor, which hinders the endocytosis and effectiveness of T-DM1. The present study is to explore the T-DM1 endocytosis pathway, which may provide insights into the internalization mechanism of ADCs and help to improve efficacy.

Methods

Confocal microscopy and flow cytometry were used to analyse T-DM1 intracellular trafficking and endocytosis efficiency, while Western blot assay was performed to detect T-DM1 degradation.

Results

We found that intracellular T-DM1 was increased to 50% within 12 h. T-DM1 was colocalized with cholera toxin B (CTxB), a lipid raft marker, within 2 h and then degraded in lysosome. Upon overexpression of caveolin-1 (CAV-1) and utilization of caveolae/lipid-raft disruptors, we found that temporal CAV-1 upregulation significantly facilitated T-DM1 endocytosis and degradation, whereas nystatin and lovastatin disrupted caveolae/lipid-raft structure and inhibited T-DM1 degradation. We demonstrate that T-DM1 internalizes through the lipid raft-mediated endocytosis in a CAV-1 dependent manner, rather than through the clathrin-mediated endocytosis in HER2-positive cancer cells.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that modulation of the caveolae/lipid-raft mediated endocytosis may be a possible option for improving the clinical therapeutic effect of T-DM1 because it plays a key role in regulating T-DM1 internalization.

Community-Acquired Respiratory Distress Syndrome Toxin: Unique Exotoxin for M. pneumoniae

Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection often causes respiratory diseases in humans, particularly in children and adults with atypical pneumonia and community-acquired pneumonia (CAP), and is often exacerbated by co-infection with other lung diseases, such as asthma, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder. Community-acquired respiratory distress syndrome toxin (CARDS TX) is the only exotoxin produced by M. pneumoniae and has been extensively studied for its ADP-ribosyltransferase (ADPRT) activity and cellular vacuolization properties. Additionally, CARDS TX induces inflammatory responses, resulting in cell swelling, nuclear lysis, mucus proliferation, and cell vacuolization. CARDS TX enters host cells by binding to the host receptor and is then reverse transported to the endoplasmic reticulum to exert its pathogenic effects. In this review, we focus on the structural characteristics, functional activity, distribution and receptors, mechanism of cell entry, and inflammatory response of CARDS TX was examined. Overall, the findings of this review provide a theoretical basis for further investigation of the mechanism of M. pneumoniae infection and the development of clinical diagnosis and vaccines.

"Mysterious veil" between the blood group system and pathogens

As a stable genetic marker of human, blood group is expressed in a polymorphic system in the population. Blood group and pathogens mainly produce effects through the interaction between antigens and antibodies. On the one hand, they can promote pathogen colonization, invasion or evasion of host clearance mechanism, and on the other hand, they can make some hosts less susceptible to corresponding pathogens. By exploring the molecular mechanism between the blood group system and pathogenic microorganisms, it can provide a scientific basis for the treatment of human related diseases and the development of vaccines.

The spatial form periosteal-bone complex promotes bone regeneration by coordinating macrophage polarization and osteogenic-angiogenic events

Bone defects associated with soft tissue injuries are an important cause of deformity that threatens people’s health and quality of life. Although bone substitutes have been extensively explored, effective biomaterials that can coordinate early inflammation regulation and subsequent repair events are still lacking. We prepared a spatial form periosteal bone extracellular matrix (ECM) scaffold, which has advantages in terms of low immunogenicity, good retention of bioactive ingredients, and a natural spatial structure. The periosteal bone ECM scaffold with the relatively low-stiffness periosteum (41.6 ± 3.7 kPa) could inhibit iNOS and IL-1β expression, which might be related to actin-mediated YAP translocation. It also helped to promote CD206 expression with the potential influence of proteins related to immune regulation. Moreover, the scaffold combined the excellent properties of decalcified bone and periosteum, promoted the formation of blood vessels, and good osteogenic differentiation (RUNX2, Col 1α1, ALP, OPN, and OCN), and achieved good repair of a cranial defect in rats. This scaffold, with its natural structural and biological advantages, provides a new idea for bone healing treatment that is aligned with bone physiology.

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We provided a spatial form periosteal-bone complex.

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The scaffold preserved major biological components and spatial structure.

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The periosteum part of the scaffold acted as a physical barrier.

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The scaffold participated in the transformation of the macrophage phenotype.

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The scaffold promoted osteogenesis and angiogenesis.

High accuracy measurement of the ground-state hyperfine splitting in a 113Cd+ microwave clock: erratum

We present an erratum to our Letter [Opt. Lett.40, 4249 (2015)OPLEDP0146-959210.1364/OL.40.004249]. This erratum corrects the nuclear Lande factor gI in Eq. (2). After correcting the error, the final ground-state hyperfine splitting frequency of the ¹¹³Cd⁺ ion is determined to be 15199862855.0287(10) Hz.

Diagnostic and prognostic role of peak troponin T in patients with acute coronary syndromes and non-obstructive coronary arteries

Background

Up to 10% of patients who present with an acute coronary syndrome have a myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA). Troponin T predicts infarct size and outcomes in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction. The value of peak troponin T in patients with a working diagnosis of MINOCA is not well understood.

Purpose

The aim of this study is to investigate the diagnostic and prognostic role of troponin in patients with MINOCA.

Methods

Consecutive patients with a working diagnosis of MINOCA from a single tertiary centre who underwent comprehensive cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging with late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) were followed prospectively. Peak troponin T was identified during the index admission and divided into deciles and quartiles for analysis. The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality.

Results

Among 796 patients undergoing CMR, 719 met the study criteria and had underwent a diagnostic quality scan. The peak Troponin T threshold for optimal diagnostic sensitivity and specificity was 211 ng/L. Peak troponin T ≥211 ng/L and time to CMR of ≤14 days has a sensitivity of 94%, specificity of 35%, PPV 57% and NPV 94% for the CMR making a diagnosis. Each increase in troponin decile increases the mean diagnostic yield of the CMR by 3.65% (p&lt;0.001, 95% CI 3.38 – 3.91; R2 0.84; Figure 1).

If the troponin is in the lowest decile and the CMR is performed at ≤14 days, the diagnostic yield is still 72%. There is no overall difference in median troponin in patients who died and those who survived (229 ng/l v. 424 ng/l; p=0.157), however mortality is significantly lower in the highest two troponin quartiles (6.9% versus 11.9%; p=0.009; Figure 2).

Conclusion

Peak troponin T is readily available during the index admission in patients presenting with MINOCA and provides useful diagnostic and prognostic information for the attending cardiologist.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None. Figure 1. CMR diagnosis by troponin decileFigure 2. Mortality by troponin quartile

Sex and age differences in patients with acute coronary syndrome and non-obstructive coronary arteries: presentation and outcome

Aims

A substantial number of patients present with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and non-obstructive coronary arteries. Sex and age differences in these patients are not well understood. This study aims to evaluate the impact of sex and age on clinical presentation and outcome in patients with ACS and non-obstructive coronary arteries, with either an ischaemic or non-ischaemic cause.

Methods and results

Consecutive patients with an ACS and non-obstructive coronary arteries (n=719) from a single tertiary centre underwent comprehensive cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging with late gadolinium enhancement (LGE). The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality. CMR was performed at a median time of 30 days after presentation and identified a diagnosis in 74% of patients. Patients with an ischaemic or non-ischaemic aetiology (n=529) on CMR were followed prospectively. All-cause mortality was 11% over a median follow up of 4.9 years, with no significant difference between sexes (11% versus 11% p=0.732). Women were more likely to have an ischaemic aetiology on CMR (40% v 31%, p=0.037). Age group (HR 1.48, p=0.002), log peak troponin (HR 0.78, p=0.033) and LVEF (HR 0.98, p=0.032) were independent predictors of mortality. Men aged &gt;60 years with a non-ischaemic aetiology on their CMR were at higher risk of death than women &gt;60 years (p=0.003).

Conclusions

There is no difference in all-cause mortality between sexes in patients presenting with ACS and non-obstructive coronary arteries but increasing age is an important predictor of mortality in both sexes.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None. Sex differences in CMR diagnosisSex, age and mortality

Virulent Drexlervirial Bacteriophage MSK, Morphological and Genome Resemblance With Rtp Bacteriophage Inhibits the Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria

Phage-host interactions are likely to have the most critical aspect of phage biology. Phages are the most abundant and ubiquitous infectious acellular entities in the biosphere, where their presence remains elusive. Here, the novel Escherichia coli lytic bacteriophage, named MSK, was isolated from the lysed culture of E. coli C (phix174 host). The genome of phage MSK was sequenced, comprising 45,053 bp with 44.8% G + C composition. In total, 73 open reading frames (ORFs) were predicted, out of which 24 showed a close homology with known functional proteins, including one tRNA-arg; however, the other 49 proteins with no proven function in the genome database were called hypothetical. Electron Microscopy and genome characterization have revealed that MSK phage has a rosette-like tail tip. There were, in total, 46 ORFs which were homologous to the Rtp genome. Among these ORFs, the tail fiber protein with a locus tag of MSK_000019 was homologous to Rtp 43 protein, which determines the host specificity. The other protein, MSK_000046, encodes lipoprotein (cor gene); that protein resembles Rtp 45, responsible for preventing adsorption during cell lysis. Thirteen MSK structural proteins were identified by SDS-PAGE analysis. Out of these, 12 were vital structural proteins, and one was a hypothetical protein. Among these, the protein terminase large (MSK_000072) subunit, which may be involved in DNA packaging and proposed packaging strategy of MSK bacteriophage genome, takes place through headful packaging using the pac-sites. Biosafety assessment of highly stable phage MSK genome analysis has revealed that the phage did not possess virulence genes, which indicates proper phage therapy. MSK phage potentially could be used to inhibit the multidrug-resistant bacteria, including AMP, TCN, and Colistin. Further, a comparative genome and lifestyle study of MSK phage confirmed the highest similarity level (87.18% ANI). These findings suggest it to be a new lytic isolated phage species. Finally, Blast and phylogenetic analysis of the large terminase subunit and tail fiber protein put it in Rtp viruses' genus of family Drexlerviridae.

Multifunctional Thio-Stabilized Gold Nanoparticles for Near-Infrared Fluorescence Detection and Imaging of Activated Caspase-3

Background

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are commonly used in nanomedicine because of their unique spectral properties, chemical and biological stability, and ability to quench the fluorescence of organic dyes attached to their surfaces. However, the utility of spherical AuNPs for activatable fluorescence sensing of molecular processes have been confined to resonance-matched fluorophores in the 500 nm to 600 nm spectral range to maximize dye fluorescence quenching efficiency. Expanding the repertoire of fluorophore systems into the NIR fluorescence regimen with emission >800 nm will facilitate the analysis of multiple biological events with high detection sensitivity.

Objective

The primary goal of this study is to determine if spherical AuNP-induced radiative rate suppression of non-resonant near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent probes can serve as a versatile nanoconstruct for highly sensitive detection and imaging of activated caspase-3 in aqueous media and cancer cells. This required the development of activatable NIR fluorescence sensors of caspase-3 designed to overcome the nonspecific degradation and release of the surface coatings in aqueous media.

Method

We harnessed the fluorescence-quenching properties and multivalency of spherical AuNPs to develop AuNP-templated activatable NIR fluorescent probes to detect activated caspase-3, an intracellular reporter of early cell death. Freshly AuNPs were coated with a multifunctional NIR fluorescent dye-labeled peptide (LS422) consisting of an RGD peptide sequence that targets α_vβ₃-integrin protein (α_vβ₃) on the surface of cancer cells to mediate the uptake and internalization of the sensors in tumor cells; a DEVD peptide sequence for reporting the induction of cell death through caspase-3 mediated NIR fluorescence enhancement; and a multidentate hexacysteine sequence for enhancing self-assembly and stabilizing the multifunctional construct on AuNPs. The integrin binding affinity of LS422 and caspase-3 kinetics were determined by a radioligand competitive binding and fluorogenic peptide assays, respectively. Detection of intracellular caspase-3, cell viability, and the internalization of LS422 in cancer cells were determined by confocal NIR fluorescence spectroscopy and microscopy.

Results

Narrow size AuNPs (13 nm) were prepared and characterized by transmission electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering. When assembled on the AuNPs, the binding constant of LS422 for α_vβ₃ improved 11-fold from 13.2 nM to 1.2 nM. Whereas the catalytic turnover of caspase-3 by LS422-AuNPs was similar to the reference fluorogenic peptide, the binding affinity for the enzyme increased by a factor of 2. Unlike the α_vβ₃ positive, but caspase-3 negative breast cancer MCF-7 cells, treatment of the α_vβ₃ and caspase-3 positive lung cancer A549 cells with Paclitaxel showed significant fluorescence enhancement within 30 minutes, which correlated with caspase-3 specific activation of LS422-AuNPs fluorescence. Incorporation of a 3.5 mW NIR laser source into our spectrofluorometer increased the detection sensitivity by an order of magnitude (limit of detection ~0.1 nM of cypate) and significantly decreased the signal noise relative to a xenon lamp. This gain in sensitivity enabled the detection of substrate hydrolysis at a broad range of inhibitor concentrations without photobleaching the cypate dye.

Conclusion

The multifunctional AuNPs demonstrate the use of a non-resonant quenching strategy to design activatable NIR fluorescence molecular probes. The nanoconstruct offers a selective reporting method for detecting activated caspase-3, imaging of cell viability, identifying dying cells, and visualizing the functional status of intracellular enzymes. Performing these tasks with NIR fluorescent probes creates an opportunity to translate the in vitro and cellular analysis of enzymes into in vivo interrogation of their functional status using deep tissue penetrating NIR fluorescence analytical methods.

[Analysis of the short-and medium-term curative effect of TIPS approach combined with AngioJet thrombus aspiration technology treatment in acute portal vein thrombosis]

Objective: To evaluate the short- and medium-term clinical efficacy of TIPS approach combined with AngioJet thrombus aspiration technology treatment in acute portal vein thrombosis. Methods: 63 cases with acute portal vein thrombosis treated in our center from May 2017 to July 2019 were studied retrospectively, including 49 males and 14 females, aged 35-61 (46 ± 5) years. TIPS approach (with/without) combined with Angiojet thrombus aspiration and gastroesophageal varices embolization was performed simultaneously according to the patient's condition. Regular follow-up for 3-33 (22 ± 3) months after surgery was used to observe the curative effect. Results: The technical success rate was 100%. Portal vein and superior mesenteric vein blood flow were returned to normal after the operation. Two cases of biliary tract injury were untreated. Simultaneously, two cases of intrahepatic arteriovenous fistula were treated with superselective arterial embolization. During the follow-up period, 47 cases (74.61%) had complete portal vein recanalization, 13 cases (20.63%) had partial recanalization, 3 cases (4.76%) had complete portal cavernoma, 7 cases (11.11%) had symptomatic hepatic encephalopathy, 1 case had received artificial liver treatment (1.59%), 1 case had peptic ulcer (11.11%), 6 cases (9.52%) had lost to follow-up, and there was no portal hypertension-related bleeding or death. Conclusion: TIPS approach combined with AngioJet thrombus aspiration technology is safe, effective and feasible in the treatment of acute portal vein thrombosis, and the short- and medium-term clinical effects are satisfactory.

The role of peak troponin in patients with a working diagnosis of myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA)

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: Private grant(s) and/or Sponsorship. Main funding source(s): Rosetrees Trust James Tudor Foundation

Background

6-10% of patients who present with an acute coronary syndrome have a myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA). Troponin T predicts infarct size and outcomes in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction. The value of peak troponin T in patients with a working diagnosis of MINOCA is not well understood.

Purpose

The aim of this study is to investigate the diagnostic and prognostic role of troponin in patients with MINOCA. 

Methods

Consecutive patients with a working diagnosis of MINOCA (n = 719) from a single tertiary centre who underwent comprehensive cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging with late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) were followed prospectively. The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality.

Results

Peak troponin T ≥211 ng/L and time to CMR of ≤17 days have a positive predictive value of 94% for being able to make a diagnosis on CMR. If the scan was performed in ≤17 days the diagnostic yield was still 75% even in the lowest troponin decile, but this was 59% if performed after 17 days. Each increase in troponin decile increases the mean diagnostic yield of the CMR by 3.7% (p &lt; 0.001, 95% CI 3.4 – 3.9; R2 0.84; Figure 1). There is no overall difference in median troponin in patients who died and those who survived (229 ng/l v. 424 ng/l; p = 0.157), however mortality is significantly lower in the highest two troponin quartiles (11.9% versus 6.9%; p = 0.009, figure 2). 

Conclusions

Peak troponin T and time to CMR can be used by cardiologists to determine the likelihood of making a diagnosis using CMR. A higher troponin quartile is associated with lower mortality.

Implementation of Rapid CMR Protocol in the COVID-19 era: improving scanning efficiency and increasing scanning capacity

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many non-urgent elective cardiac MRI (CMR) appointments were cancelled to minimise the risk of infection to patients coming to hospital. At the time of the first lockdown, our scanning schedule allowed on average 228 scans/month. Non-urgent elective studies were cancelled from April-June 2020, resulting in 684 scans added to the waiting list.

Upon reactivation of our clinical CMR service, we developed a service quality improvement initiative consisting of using a ‘Rapid CMR’ protocol to reduce scanning time without compromising the test’s diagnostic accuracy, increase our scanning capacity and improve efficiency in reducing the backlog of requests.

Purpose

To  demonstrate the increased scanning capacity generated by the adoption of the "Rapid CMR" protocol.

Methods

The Rapid CMR protocol was implemented in November 2020 to all scans requiring cines, late gadolinium enhancement ± adenosine stress (non-stress and stress studies). The protocol was modelled on prior published experiences[1,2]. Patients who underwent these scans with additional imaging (e.g. T2-STIR imaging) were excluded. Data was collected from Nov 2020 to Jan 2021 and compared with the same time period the previous year when the standard protocol was used (cf. Image 1). Data collected included scan duration (time from first to last image), whether the Rapid CMR studies maintained diagnostic quality (yes/no), and the did-not-attend (DNA) rate.

Results

With the Rapid CMR protocol 254 patients were scanned (114 non-stress, 140 stress), compared with 286 patients scanned with standard protocol in November 2019 to January 2020 (155 non-stress, 131 stress).

Median scanning time in minutes for non-stress was 29 (IQR 25-34; Rapid) vs 37 (IQR 33-41; standard); (p < 0.001). For stress studies the median scanning time in minutes was 32 (IQR 28-36; Rapid) vs 41 (IQR 29-45;  standard; (p < 0.001). The rate of suboptimal imaging due to patient factors (such as breathing or arrhythmia) was similar for each protocol (14.4% Rapid, 20.2% standard; p = 0.04). All Rapid studies were of diagnostic quality (Table 1). Saving c.8 minutes per scan led to an improved scanning time and schedule capacity of 21%. Fewer patients were scanned with the Rapid protocol due to pandemic related issues: patient reluctance to accept appointments (unfilled slots), cleaning measures between patients (on average ∼5 mins per slot reducing overall capacity), and a higher DNA rate: 15.3% (Rapid) vs 6.5% (standard); p < 0.001.

Conclusion

The Rapid CMR protocol resulted in a statistically significant reduction in scanning time (-8 min for both stress and non-stress CMRs) increasing our schedule capacity and improving efficiency by 21%, whilst maintaining diagnostic quality. The implementation of the Rapid CMR protocol is a feasible and effective strategy to tackle the backlog of CMR clinical request accumulated during the pandemic.

Sex and age differences in patients with a working diagnosis of myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA): presentation and outcome

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: Private grant(s) and/or Sponsorship. Main funding source(s): Rosetrees Trust James Tudor Foundation

Background Myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA) is an increasingly recognised working diagnosis. Sex and age differences in MINOCA are not well understood.

Purpose  This study aims to evaluate the impact of sex and age in patients with MINOCA due to ischaemic and non-ischaemic causes on clinical presentation and outcome.

Methods and Results Consecutive patients with a working diagnosis of MINOCA (n = 719) from a single tertiary centre who underwent comprehensive cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging with late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) were followed prospectively. The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality.  CMR was performed at a median time of 30 days after presentation and identified a diagnosis in 74% of patients. Men were more likely to have a non-ischaemic cause on CMR (55% v. 41%, p &lt; 0.001) and less likely to have a normal/non-specific scan (21% v. 32%, p = 0.001, figure 1).  All-cause mortality was 9.5% over a median follow up of 4.9 years, with no significant difference between sexes (8.7% versus 10.1% p = 0.456).  Age group (HR 1.61, p &lt; 0.001) and LVEF (HR 0.98, p = 0.020) were independent predictors of mortality. Men aged &gt;60 years with a non-ischaemic aetiology on their CMR were at higher risk of death than women with non-ischaemic causes &gt;60 years (p = 0.003, figure 2).

Conclusions There is no difference in all-cause mortality between sexes in MINOCA but increasing age is the most important predictor of mortality in both sexes.

Propagation of Gaussian Schell-model beams in modulated graded-index media

The evolution of partially coherent beams in longitudinally modulated graded-index media is studied. The special cases of Gaussian Schell-model beams and parametric modulation, when the modulation period is half the fiber self-imaging period, are examined in detail. We show that the widths of the intensity and coherence of Gaussian Schell-model beams undergo amplification in parametrically modulated parabolic graded-index media. The process is an analog of quantum mechanical parametric amplification and generation of squeezed states. Our work may find application in spatial and temporal imaging of partially coherent beams in fiber-based imaging systems.

Expression and functional identification of recombinant SARS-CoV-2 receptor binding domain (RBD) from E. coli system

The receptor binding domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2 is located in the C-terminal of S1 subunit of the spike (S) protein which is responsible for recognizing and binding to the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor. The DNA encoding the SARS-CoV-2 RBD was inserted into pET-28a (+) to construct expression plasmid pET-28a (+)/RBD. The desired RBD protein was produced in E. coli Rosetta (DE) and purified by a Ni-NTA column. The recombinant RBD was analyzed by SDS-PAGE and Western blot. The flow cytometry analysis indicated that the recombinant RBD is capable of binding to human ACE2 (hACE2) in the ACE2-overexpressed HEK293A-hACE2 cells. Our results demonstrated that recombinant RBD expressed in E. coli Rosetta (DE) strain has bioactivities and can be used as an antigen for diagnosis and as a tool for the development of novel anti-viral drugs against SASR-CoV-2.

POS0678 DOES SILDENAFIL IMPROVE ENDOTHELIAL DYSFUNCTION IN RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS? – A PILOT CLINICAL TRIAL

Background:

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is independently associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). One of the early stages of atherosclerosis is endothelial dysfunction, which is increased in RA. Using drugs to target endothelial dysfunction is a promising novel strategy for CVD prevention in RA. Sildenafil has been shown to improve endothelial function in diabetics, who have similar increased CVD risk. Our hypothesis was that sildenafil use may be a novel primary CVD prevention strategy in RA.

Objectives:

To determine if sildenafil use in RA patients improves endothelial dysfunction (as measured by brachial artery flow-mediated dilation [FMD] and peripheral arterial tone [PAT]), as well as serum inflammatory and atherosclerosis biomarkers.

Methods:

This NIH-funded study was a phase II, randomized double-blind placebo-controlled crossover efficacy trial of 25 RA patients, with no known history of CVD, but at least one traditional CVD risk factor. Patients were randomized 1:1 to receive either sildenafil or placebo for 3 months, then after a 2-week washout, crossed over to each respective group for an additional 3 months. Vascular studies (FMD and PAT) and serum atherosclerosis biomarkers (e-Selectin, ICAM-1, VCAM-1) were performed at baseline, 3 months pre- and post-washout, and 6 months. Adverse events were collected. Given the cross-over design, analyses included a random effects model for within-subject comparisons of sildenafil versus placebo periods, adjusting for the baseline (FMD or EndoPAT) within that period and a term for treatment order. All tests were 2-sided with α=0.05.

Results:

A total of 233 subjects were assessed for eligibility, with 25 subjects being randomized after written informed consent. A total of 13 subjects were randomized to placebo first, and 12 to sildenafil first. Baseline characteristics were similar between those randomized to Placebo vs. Sildenafil first. Mean age was 62.0+/-10.9 years; 84% were female; and 92% were white. A total of 6 adverse events experienced in 3 subjects occurred. The primary endpoint (increase in %FMD in Sildenafil period vs. Placebo period) was not significant (p=0.19). However, note the study was powered at 80% to detect an effect size of 0.37 for change in %FMD or biomarker with a sample size of 60, not 25. However, sildenafil use was associated with a significant increase (improvement) by 0.200 units of PAT ratio (p=0.003) compared with placebo, adjusted by treatment order and baseline PAT ratio (within the given treatment period). Exploratory linear mixed models comparing e-Selectin, ICAM-1, and VCAM-1 between Sildenafil vs. Placebo periods, adjusted for treatment order and the baseline biomarker level, did not show any significant differences except for ICAM-1 (55.3 units higher in Sildenafil vs. Placebo periods, p=0.011).

Conclusion:

In this pilot trial of 25 RA subjects, sildenafil use was associated with a significant increase (improvement) in endothelial function as measured by PAT. However, there was no significant difference in FMD. The study is limited due to the small sample size, which was impacted by slow recruitment as well as the COVID-19 pandemic. Future larger studies are required to assess whether other PDE5 inhibitors may improve endothelial dysfunction in RA and other autoimmune disease patients at high risk of CVD.

References:

[1]Maradit-Kremers H, Crowson CS, Nicola PJ, et al. Increased unrecognized coronary heart disease and sudden deaths in rheumatoid arthritis: a population-based cohort study. Arthritis Rheum 2005;52:402-11.

[2]Peters MJ, van Halm VP, Voskuyl AE, et al. Does rheumatoid arthritis equal diabetes mellitus as an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease? A prospective study. Arthritis Rheum 2009;61:1571-9.

[3]Deyoung L, Chung E, Kovac JR, et al. Daily use of sildenafil improves endothelial function in men with type 2 diabetes. J Andrology 2012;33:176-80.

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared

Application of the current HFA-ESC consensus guidelines on diagnosis of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction to a population referred for echocardiography

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

BACKGROUND

The recent Heart Failure Association (HFA) of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) consensus guidelines on diagnosis of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) have developed a simple diagnostic algorithm for clinical use.

PURPOSE

To assess whether echocardiogram (echo) parameters needed to assess diastolic function are routinely collected in patients referred for assessment of heart failure symptoms.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of echo referrals in January 2020 were assessed for parameters of diastolic function as per step 2 of the HF-PEFF diagnostic algorithm.  Echo images and clinical reports were reviewed. Electronic records were utilised to obtain clinical history, blood results (NT-proBNP) and demographic data.

RESULTS

1330 patients underwent an echo in our department during January 2020. 83 patients were referred with symptoms of heart failure without prior history of cardiac disease; 20 patients found to have impaired left ventricular (LV) function were excluded from analysis.

Of the 63 patients with possible HFpEF, HF-PEFF score was low in 18, intermediate in 33 and high in 12. Median age was 68 years (range 32 to 97 years); 25% had a BMI &gt;30. There was a high prevalence of hypertension (52%), diabetes (19%) and atrial fibrillation (40%) (cf. Table 1). Body surface area (BSA) was documented in 65% of echo reports. Most echo parameters were recorded with the exception of global longitudinal strain (GLS) and indexed LV mass (cf. image 1). NT-proBNP was recorded in only 20 patients (31.7%). 12 patients with an intermediate HF-PEFF score could have been re-categorised to a high score depending on GLS and NT-proBNP (which were not recorded).

CONCLUSION

More than three quarters of echoes acquired in our department obtained the relevant parameters to assess diastolic function. The addition of BSA, and inclusion of NT-proBNP, and GLS would have been additive to a third of ‘intermediate’ patients to determine definite HFpEF. Our study demonstrates that the current HFA-ESC diagnostic algorithm and HF-PEFF scoring system are easy to use, highly relevant and applicable to current clinical practice.

Age &gt;70 years 29 (46.0%) Obesity (BMI &gt;30) 16 (25.4%) Diabetes 12 (19%) Hypertension 33 (52.4%) Atrial Fibrillation 25 (39.7%) ECG abnormalities 18 (28.5%) Table 1. Prevalence of Clinical Risk Factors Abstract Figure. Image 1. HFPEFF score & echo parameters

Molecular cloning, characterization, and expression analysis of a sex-biased transcriptional factor sox9 gene of mud crab Scylla paramamosain

Sox9 gene, a crucial member of the Sox gene family, is present in various organisms and involved in many physiological processes, especially in sex determination and gonad development. In this study, we reported a sox9 gene (designated as Spsox9) from Scylla paramamosain through analyzing published gonad transcriptome data. Meanwhile, the accuracy was validated by PCR technology, and the 3' sequences were cloned with 3' RACE technology. The full-length cDNA of Spsox9 is 2843 bp, consisting of a 243 bp 5' UTR, an 1124 bp 3' UTR, and a 1476 bp ORF encoding 491 amino acids. Furthermore, to better understand its conservation among crustacean species, the sox9 gene ortholog was identified in several other crustaceans species with their published transcriptome data, respectively. All of the Sox9 proteins identified in the current study had the common feature of Sox proteins (HMG domain) and were highly conserved among analyzed crustacean species. In all examined tissues, the Spsox9 was mainly expressed in the gonad (testis and ovary), eyestalk, and cerebral ganglion. During embryo development, Spsox9 was highly expressed in 5 pairs of appendages, 7 pairs of appendages, and eye-pigment formation stage. During ovary development, the expression level of Spsox9 remained stable in the first 4 stages (O1-O4) and decreased in the tertiary vitellogenesis (O5) stage. During testis development, the expression level of Spsox9 was highest in the spermatid stage (T2) and was significantly different from that in the spermatocyte stage (T1) and mature sperm stage (T3) (p < 0.05). In addition, Spsox9 exhibited a sex-biased expression pattern in T1 and O1. These present results indicated that the Spsox9 gene might play crucial roles in the gonad and embryo development of mud crab.

Reduced orbitofrontal grey matter volume in myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA)

Background

Myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA) is seen in 6–10% of patients presenting acutely with suspected myocardial infarction. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) can identify an underlying cause in ∼80% of patients. These patients are more likely to have a history of mental health illness or an emotional or stressful precipitant.

Grey matter volume can be quantified in various anatomical regions of the brain and has been shown to be altered in common mental health conditions such as anxiety, stress and depression.

This is the first prospective study investigating the acute structural brain, cardiac and psychological changes using MRI in patients with myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA) within 14 days of presentation compared to STEMI control patients.

Methods

Patients meeting the 2017 ESC definition of MINOCA were prospectively recruited with STEMI control patients from February to December 2019. All participants underwent brain and comprehensive cardiac MRI, bloods and baseline psychological evaluation. We used voxel-based morphometry (VBM) to quantify grey matter volume and changes were compared between groups.

Results

54 patients were included in this interim analysis (39 MINOCA, 15 STEMI controls). Demographics were largely similar but MINOCA patients were more likely to have a history of self-reported mental health disease (36% v 7%, p 0.03) and had significantly higher baseline anxiety (8.4 v 5.3, p 0.01) scores on the HADS questionnaire. We found that control patients have significantly greater grey matter volume in the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) compared to MINOCA patients (pFWE-corr 0.002). The orbitofrontal cortex is involved in emotional processing and implicated in anxiety and depression. However, there was no association between grey matter volume in any brain region and anxiety, depression or perceived stress scale scores.

Conclusion

Patients with MINOCA are more likely to have a history of mental health disease and have higher anxiety scores at presentation than STEMI controls. They have less grey matter volume in the orbitofrontal cortex compared to STEMI controls.

Reduced Grey Matter Volume in the OFC

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Private grant(s) and/or Sponsorship. Main funding source(s): Rosetrees Trust; James Tudor Foundation

MicroRNA-29 targets FGF2 and inhibits the proliferation, migration and invasion of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells via PI3K/AKT signaling pathway

OBJECTIVE

Studies have indicated that miRNAs may prove essential therapeutic targets for the treatment of cancer. The study was designed to investigate the role and therapeutic potential of miR-29 in nasopharyngeal cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The quantitative Real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used for expression analysis. WST-1 assay was used for cell viability assessment. The 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) staining and electron microscopic analysis was used for the detection of apoptosis and autophagy, respectively. Transwell assays were used for cell migration and invasion assay.

RESULTS

It was found that miR-29 is significantly downregulated in nasopharyngeal cancer cell lines. Overexpression of miR-29 causes decrease in the viability of CNE2 nasopharyngeal cancer cells via induction of apoptosis and autophagy. Bioinformatics analysis indicated FGF2 to be the target of miR-29 in CNE2 cells, which was also confirmed by luciferase reporter assay. The qRT-PCR results showed fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) to be significantly upregulated in the nasopharyngeal cancer cell lines. However, miR-29 overexpression in CNE2 cells resulted in post-transcriptional suppression of FGF2 expression. Nonetheless, silencing of FGF2 also caused inhibition of CNE2 cell proliferation via induction of apoptosis and autophagy. Overexpression of FGF2 could reverse the effects of miR-29 overexpression on the proliferation of CNE2 cells. Moreover, overexpression of miR-29 causes significant decline in the phosphorylation of PI3K and AKT expression cells and inhibits their migration and invasion of the CNE2 cells. Finally, miR-29 overexpression could also suppress the subcutaneous xenografted tumor growth.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of the present study indicate the therapeutic implications of miR-29 in nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

Characterization of two myostatin genes in pufferfish Takifugu bimaculatus: sequence, genomic structure, and expression

Myostatin (MSTN) is a negative regulator of muscle growth, which restrains the proliferation and differentiation of myoblasts. To understand the role of two mstn genes of Takifugu bimaculatus, the full-length cDNAs of 1131 bp Tbmstn1 and 1,080 bp Tbmstn2 were obtained from the T. bimaculatus' genomic database, which encodes 376 and 359 amino acids, respectively. The results of qRT-PCR showed that Tbmstn1 was expressed in the eye, kidney, spleen, skeletal muscle, gill, and brain, and the expression level in the skeletal muscle was extremely significantly higher than in other examined tissues. Tbmstn2 was expressed in the skin, skeletal muscle, gill, and brain, and had the highest expression in the skeletal muscle, followed by expression in the brain. Meanwhile, in different stages of embryonic development, the expression of Tbmstn1 started from the gastrula stage. Its expression in the eye-pigment formation stage and hatching stage was significantly higher than that in other stages. The Tbmstn2 was expressed in all examined embryonic stages with different levels, and the highest expression was detected in the eye-pigment formation stage. These results suggested that Tbmstn1 and Tbmstn2 may involve in the development of skeletal muscle, and Tbmstn2 may be related to the formation of nervous system.

FRI0570 IDENTIFICATION OF OSTEOPONTIN/SECRETED PHOSPHOPROTEIN 1 AS A BIOMARKER FOR PSORIATIC ARTHRITIS

Background:

Early diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis (PsA) can be facilitated by appropriate referral of psoriasis patients to rheumatologists. Soluble biomarkers for PsA may help screen psoriasis patients for PsA.

Objectives:

To identify novel biomarkers for PsA by investigating serum levels of candidate biomarkers identified through proteomic analysis of synovial fluid (SF) and skin biopsies and literature review.

Methods:

We first (discovery phase) identified markers using: i) proteomic analysis of SF1, ii) proteomic analysis of skin biopsies2, and iii) literature review. In verification phase 1, we measured serum levels of the selected potential protein markers, using commercially available ELISA kits, to identify differentially expressed markers in healthy controls and patients with PsA (≥3 swollen joints, not treated with biologics) and psoriasis without PsA (PsC; matched with PsA patients on age, sex and psoriasis duration) (100 subjects each group). In verification phase 2, using less strict criteria (no restriction on pharmacotherapy or disease activity) and larger sample size, we confirmed the association with PsA of markers identified in phase 1 using samples from 200 patients each with PsA and PsC. Statistical methods used included descriptive statistics, t-tests and logistic regression.

Results:

The discovery phase identified the following 31 markers for testing in verification phase 1- hsCRP, MMP3, CD5L, M2BP, MPO, ITGB5, DKK1, FGF23, IL-6, IL-1β, leptin, osteocalcin, OPG, OPN, SOST, TNFα, adiponectin, periostin, RANKL, YKL40, KLK6, KLK8, CS846, C2C, CPII, TNFSF14, COMP, ALP, CXCL10, S100A8/A9 and DEFA. The following 21 markers remained differentially upregulated in PsA after testing in verification phase 1- hsCRP, MMP-3, M2BP, ITGB5, leptin, OPG, OPN, SOST,TNFα, periostin, RANKL, YKL40, KLK8, C2C, CPII, TNFSF14, COMP, ALP, CXCL10, S100A8/A9 and DEFA. Univariate logistic regression analyses adjusted for age, sex, and disease duration confirmed the association between hsCRP, OPN, S100A8/A9, OPG and the ratio CPII/C2C in verification phase 2. Multivariate logistic regression demonstrated that hsCRP and OPN (both p<0.001) are independently associated with PsA.

Conclusion:

OPN, a cytokine involved in enhancing production of IFNγ and IL-12, reducing production of IL-10 and promoting attachment of osteoclasts to mineralized bone matrix, is a potential biomarker of PsA.

References:

[1] Cretu D, Prassas I, Saraon P, Batruch I, Gandhi R, Diamandis EP, Chandran V. Identification of psoriatic arthritis mediators in synovial fluid by quantitative mass spectrometry. Clin Proteomics. 2014 Jul 1;11(1):27.

[2] Cretu D, Liang K, Saraon P, Batruch I, Diamandis EP, Chandran V. Quantitative tandem mass-spectrometry of skin tissue reveals putative psoriatic arthritis biomarkers. Clin Proteomics. 2015 Jan 13;12(1):1.

Disclosure of Interests:

Fatima Abji: None declared, Rohan Machhar: None declared, Kun Liang: None declared, Justine Ye: None declared, Katerina Oikonomopoulou: None declared, Vinod Chandran Grant/research support from: Abbvie, Celgene, Consultant of: Abbvie, Amgen, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Celgene, Eli Lily, Janssen, Novartis, Pfizer, UCB, Employee of: Spouse employed by Eli Lily

B-cell lymphoma 2 family genes show a molecular pattern of spatiotemporal heterogeneity in gynaecologic and breast cancer

Objectives

BCL2 family proteins have been widely studied over the past decade due to their essential roles in apoptosis, oncogenesis and anti‐cancer therapy. However, the similarities and differences in the spatial pattern of the BCL2 gene family within the context of chromatin have not been well characterized. We sought to fill this knowledge gap by assessing correlations between gene alteration, gene expression, chromatin accessibility, and clinical outcomes in gynaecologic and breast cancer.

Materials and methods

In this study, the molecular characteristics of the BCL2 gene family in gynaecologic cancer were systematically analysed by integrating multi‐omics datasets, including transcriptomics, chromatin accessibility, copy number variation, methylomics and clinical outcome.

Results

We evaluated spatiotemporal associations between long‐range regulation peaks and tumour heterogeneity. Differential expression of the BCL2 family was coupled with widespread chromatin accessibility changes in gynaecologic cancer, accompanied by highly heterogeneous distal non‐coding accessibility surrounding the BCL2L1 gene loci. A relationship was also identified between gene expression, gene amplification, enhancer signatures, DNA methylation and overall patient survival. Prognostic analysis implied clinical correlations with BAD, BIK and BAK1. A shared protein regulatory network was established in which the co‐mutation signature of TP53 and PIK3CA was linked to the BCL2L1 gene.

Conclusions

Our results provide the first systematic identification of the molecular features of the BCL2 family under the spatial pattern of chromatin in gynaecologic and breast cancer. These findings broaden the therapeutic scope of the BCL2 family to the non‐coding region by including a significantly conserved distal region overlaying an enhancer.

Stable expression ratios of five pyroptosis-inducing cytokines in the spleen and thymus of mice showed potential immune regulation at the organ level

BACKGROUND

The immune system is one of the most complex regulatory systems in the body and is essential for the maintenance of homeostasis. Despite recent breakthroughs in immunology, the regulation of the immune system and the etiology of autoimmune diseases such as lupus remain unclear. Systemic lupus erythematosus is a systemic autoimmune disease with abnormally and inconsistently expressed pro-inflammatory cytokines. Pyroptosis is a pro-inflammatory form of programmed cell death that is associated with systemic lupus erythematosus. The thymus and spleen are important immune organs involved in systemic lupus erythematosus. Therefore, this study investigated the difference in expression of pyroptosis-inducing pro-inflammatory cytokines between the spleen and thymus in lupus model mice and in control mice, to describe immune regulation at the organ level.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate differences in the expression of pyroptosis-inducing cytokines in the spleen and thymus and to explore immune regulatory networks at the organ level.

METHODS

Two groups of lupus mice and two groups of control mice were utilized for this study. Using the thymus and spleen of experimental animals, mRNA expression levels of five pyroptosis-inducing cytokines (interleukin 1β, interleukin 18, NLRP3, caspase-1 and TNF-α) were determined via quantitative polymerase chain reaction. In addition, tissue distribution of these cytokines was investigated via immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

All five pyroptosis-inducing inflammatory cytokines showed higher expression in the spleen than in the thymus (p < 0.05). Moreover, the spleen/thymus expression ratios of all five pyroptosis-inducing cytokines were not statistically different between the four experimental groups. Expression of all five cytokines exhibited a stable ratio (spleen/thymus ratios). This distinctive stable spleen/thymus ratio was consistent in all four experimental groups. The stable spleen/thymus ratios of the five inflammatory cytokines were as follows: interleukin 1β (2.02 ± 0.9), interleukin 18 (2.07 ± 1.06), caspase-1 (1.93 ± 0.66), NLRP3 (3.14 ± 1.61) and TNF-α (3.16 ± 1.36). Immunohistochemical analysis showed the cytokines were mainly expressed in the red pulp region of the spleen and the medullary region of the thymus, where immune-activated cells aggregated.

CONCLUSION

The stable spleen/thymus expression ratios of pyroptosis-inducing cytokines indicated that immune organs exhibit strictly regulated functions to maintain immune homeostasis and adapt to the environment.

Effects of a nutrient-dense formula compared with a post-discharge formula on post-discharge growth of preterm very low birth weight infants with extrauterine growth retardation: a multicentre randomised study in China

BACKGROUND

Post-discharge optimal growth and nutritional intake have beneficial effects for neurodevelopment in preterm very low birth weight infants (VLBWIs) with extrauterine growth retardation (EUGR). The present study aimed to compare the effects of a nutrient-dense formula (NDF) to a post-discharge formula (PDF) on post-discharge growth of preterm VLBWIs with EUGR.

METHODS

Forty-eight preterm VLBWIs with EUGR at discharge were randomised to receive NDF (100 kcal per 100 mL; 2.6 g protein per 100 mL) or PDF (74 kcal per 100 mL; 1.95 g protein per 100 mL) for 1-6 months until body weight reached the 50th percentile on growth charts with corrected age. Volume, nutrient intake, anthropometry and biochemistry data were collected.

RESULTS

Volume intake was lower in the NDF group than the PDF group during the first 2 months of feeding (P = 0.039 and 0.018, respectively).There were no significant differences in volume intake during months 2-6 of feeding. Energy, protein, carbohydrate and fat intake were higher in the NDF group during months 1-6 of feeding. There were no significant differences in weight, length, and head circumference Z-scores during months 1-6 between the two groups. The △length Z-score from discharge to month 6 was significantly higher in the NDF group than the PDF group (P = 0.043). No differences existed between the two groups with respect to biochemistry.

CONCLUSIONS

After discharge, preterm VLBWIs with EUGR fed a NDF gain anthropometric parameter Z-scores similar to those for a PDF within 6 months of follow-up. A NDF leading to gain in length requires further follow-up.

Engineered scPDL1-DM1 drug conjugate with improved in vitro analysis to target PD-L1 positive cancer cells and intracellular trafficking studies in cancer therapy

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADC), precisely deliver a cytotoxic agent to antigen-expressing tumor cells by using specific binding strategies of antibodies. The ADC has shown the ability of potent bio-therapeutics development but indefinite stoichiometric linkage and full-length antibody penetration compromised the field of its advancement. Single chain variable fragments convention instead of the full-length antibody may overcome the challenge of rapid penetration and internalization. Programmed cell death ligand-1 interaction with PD-1 has recently revolutionized the field of immunotherapy. We systematically designed scPDL1-DM1 drug conjugate by linking scFv-PD-L1 proteins (scFv) with maytansinoids (DM1) cytotoxic agent through succinimidyl trans-4-maleimidylmethyl cyclohexane-1- carboxylate (SMCC) linker. Binding affinity was confirmed by immunocytochemistry, spectrophotometry and gel electrophoresis analysis. The scPDL1-DM1 showed specific binding with PD-L1 positive tumor cells and retained in vitro anti-cell proliferation activity. The intracellular trafficking of the drug was evaluated in A549 cancer cell lines, and maximum trafficking was observed after two hours of incubation. The generated drug can be utilized as a potent tool for site-specific conjugation, predicting specificity in vitro activities with extended range against PD-L1 positive cancer cells and can be utilized for further in vivo testing and clinical therapeutics development.

Transcriptional Regulation of Vih by Oct4 and Sox9 in Scylla paramamosain

Mud crab (Scylla paramamosain) is one of the most economically-important marine crabs in China. However, research on mechanisms of reproductive regulation is not sufficient. Vitellogenesis-inhibiting hormone (VIH) is a member of the crustacean hyperglycemia hormones (CHH) family, which plays an essential role in the regulation of gonadal development and maturation in crustaceans, and current studies on the regulation of Vih transcription in crabs are relatively rare. Our previous studies on the transcriptional regulation of mud crab Vih (SpVih) have proved that the binding site of Oct4/Sox9 transcription factor may be the key region for positively regulating the expression of SpVih. In this study, the electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) experiment confirmed that the nuclear protein extracted from the eyestalk could bind to the key region of SpVih promoter, and these specific bindings were dependent on the presence of Oct4/Sox9 binding sites. Two specific binding complex bands were detected in the supershift group of EMSA supershift experiments by Oct4 and Sox9 antibodies, further confirming the specific recognition of these two transcription factors on the key regulatory region of SpVih. In vitro, Oct4 and Sox9 gene overexpression vectors and SpVih core promoter fragment vector were constructed and co-transfected into HEK293T cells. As a result, SpVih activity increased with the concentration of transcription factors. In vivo, when Oct4 and Sox9 dsRNA were injected into the eyestalks of mud crab, respectively, the expression level of SpVih decreased significantly after interference with Oct4 or Sox9, and the expression level of SpVtg in the ovary and hepatopancreatic increased. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments showed that Oct4 and Sox9 had a positive regulatory effect on SpVih. The GST pull-down experiment was carried out by purified Oct4 and Sox9 proteins, and the results showed that there was an interaction between them. It was speculated that they regulated the expression of SpVih through the interaction.

Differential tissue expression of erythroblast macrophage protein in a MRL/lpr mouse model of lupus

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to observe the expression features of erythroblast macrophage protein (EMP) between the tissues of MRL/lpr mice, a mouse model of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and control mice.

METHODS

We examined the serum ANA in both mice groups through indirect immunofluorescence (IIF). Expression features of EMP in bone marrow, liver, renal, spleen, brain, and lung tissues of the MRL/lpr mice and control mice groups were followed using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (Q-PCR). Meanwhile, the expression of EMP was located through immunohistochemical (IHC) studies and the expressive cell identified through double immunofluorescent labeling.

RESULTS

IIF showed that lupus mice have strong positive fluorescence, but no significant fluorescence was observed in control mice. Q-PCR detection revealed that EMP was expressed in the marrow, liver, renal, spleen, lung, and brain tissues of lupus mice. The highest levels were observed in the bone marrow, but there was no statistical difference between these tissues. EMP mRNA expression in the liver (t = 2.747, p = 0.01) and bone marrow (t = 3.853, p = 0.008) of lupus mice was significantly higher than in the control mice. However, no differences in EMP mRNA expression were observed in the renal, spleen, lung, and brain tissues between the lupus and control mice (p > 0.05). In addition, the IHC results showed that EMP protein is ubiquitously expressed in all of the tissues of the lupus and control mice. The positive expression rate in the bone marrow and liver tissues of the lupus mice was higher than in the control mice, but without an obvious difference in the other tissues. The double IF staining method shows that EMP protein was expressed in macrophages in the tissues of the lupus mice and the control mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data showed that EMP is ubiquitously expressed in macrophages at all of the tissues of the lupus and control mice. However, the expression of EMP in bone marrow and liver tissues of lupus mice was higher than in the control mice, which indicates that EMP may be important in the development of SLE.

Two insertion/deletion variants in the promoter region of the QPCTL gene are significantly associated with body weight and carcass traits in chickens

Glutaminyl-peptide cyclotransferase-like (QPCTL) is an isoenzyme of glutaminyl-peptide cyclotransferase (QPCT). QPCTL and QPCT catalyze the formation of N-terminal modified pyroglutamate-fractalkine and the chemokine CCL2. The objective of this study was to investigate the association between insertions/deletions in the chicken QPCTL promoter region with growth traits in chickens. We first detected two insertion/deletion variants of QPCTL via whole-genome resequencing analysis of DNA samples from Xichuan chickens. A total of 1896 individuals from 12 breeds were genotyped for 52- and 224-bp insertions/deletions. We found two novel insertions/deletions in the promoter region of the chicken QPCTL gene and studied their association with chicken body weight and carcass traits. Our findings show that QPCTL can be a molecular marker for chicken genetics and breeding programs.