A fit-for-purpose validation of a commercial radioimmunoassay for measurement of human peripheral oxytocin

Oxytocin (OT) is a peptide hormone synthesized in the hypothalamus and released into systemic circulation or other areas of the brain. Its physiological roles include action as a hormone with stimulation of uterine contractions and that as a neuromodulator with involvement in social behaviors and regulation of mood. Its small size and low levels within biological matrices make it challenging to accurately measure. The goal of this study was to demonstrate the specificity of the antibody, sensitivity, and reproducibility of the Phoenix Pharmaceuticals (PP) OT radioimmunoassay (RIA) for use in human urine, serum, and saliva. Specificity of the antibody was assessed by high pressure liquid chromatography with ultraviolet (HPLC-UV) separation and assay of the fractions. Immunoreactivity was evaluated using the percent OT bound, and the fraction retention times were compared to the retention time of an intact OT standard to determine which fractions contained OT in the extracted samples. Reproducibility was assessed by running replicates of pools of each biomatrix over several assays. Sensitivity was assessed by repeated measurement of physiologically relevant low-concentration specimens. In all tested specimens the greatest reactivity in assay corresponded to the same fraction(s) as the OT standard. Only minimal reactivity was found in the other fractions, suggesting that in an unfractionated sample the antibody reacts mostly with intact OT. Reproducibility was acceptable for all specimens and the coefficient of variation (CV) ranged from 3.72 to 8.04% and 5.89-12.8%, for intra and inter-assay, respectively. The limits of quantitation (LOQ) were sufficient for measurement of normal values in urine (0.643 & 1.43 pg/mL), serum (1.90 pg/mL), and saliva pools (0.485 & 4.42 pg/mL). In conclusion, the PP OT RIA is specific and sensitive enough for reproducible measurement of intact OT in human peripheral biological matrices.

Detection of lung cancer through SERS analysis of serum

Early detection and postoperative assessment are crucial for improving overall survival among lung cancer patients. Here, we report a non-invasive technique that integrates Raman spectroscopy with machine learning for the detection of lung cancer. The study encompassed 88 postoperative lung cancer patients, 73 non-surgical lung cancer patients, and 68 healthy subjects. The primary aim was to explore variations in serum metabolism across these cohorts. Comparative analysis of average Raman spectra was conducted, while principal component analysis was employed for data visualization. Subsequently, the augmented dataset was used to train convolutional neural networks (CNN) and Resnet models, leading to the development of a diagnostic framework. The CNN model exhibited superior performance, as verified by the receiver operating characteristic curve. Notably, postoperative patients demonstrated an increased likelihood of recurrence, emphasizing the crucial need for continuous postoperative monitoring. In summary, the integration of Raman spectroscopy with CNN-based classification shows potential for early detection and postoperative assessment of lung cancer.

Association between serum P16ink4A concentration and CIN and cervical cancer among women attending a cervical cancer clinic in western Uganda: A case control study

Introduction

Tissue expression of P16ink4A is correlated with cervical lesions. In this study we determined the association between serum P16ink4A concentrations and cervical lesions among women attending the cervical cancer clinic at Mbarara Regional Hospital (MRRH) South Western Uganda.

Material and Methods

We recruited 90 cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) cases, 90 cervical cancer (CC) cases before treatment and 90 controls. Clinical and demographic data were recorded. Serum P16ink4A concentrations were measured by quantitative Elisa. Cases were confirmed with cytology and/or histology. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were done with STATA 17 and P-values of <0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Results

The mean serum P16ink4A concentration among CIN cases, CC cases and controls was 1.11(+/-0.66) ng/ml, 1.45(+/-1.11) ng/ml and 1.13(+/-0.61) ng/ml respectively (p = 0.008). 50 % of CIN cases and controls as well as 60 % of CC cases had P16ink4A concentration above 0.946 ng/ml. There were increased odds of CIN for serum P16ink4A though statistically insignificant (AOR: 1.11, p-value: 0.70). There was also a statistically significant reduction in odds of CC for serum P16ink4A (AOR: 0.55, p-value: 0.01).

Conclusion

Serum P16ink4A may likely be associated with cervical lesions especially CC in our study population and this may aid detection of such lesions. Diagnostic utility studies for circulating P16ink4A in detection of cervical cancer are recommended.

A preliminary understanding of the relationship between synthetic phenolic antioxidants and early pregnancy loss: Uncovering the potential molecular mechanisms

Mounting evidence suggests that environmental pollutants may affect reproductive health, potentially leading to adverse outcomes like pregnancy loss. However, it remains unclear whether exposure to synthetic phenolic antioxidants (SPAs) correlates with early pregnancy loss (EPL). This study explores SPA exposure's link to EPL and its potential molecular mechanisms. From 2021 to 2022, 265 early pregnant women (136 serum and 129 villus samples) with and without EPL were enrolled. We quantified 17 SPAs in serum and chorionic villus, with AO1010, AO3114, BHT, AO2246, and BHT-Q frequently being detected, suggesting their ability to cross the placental barrier. AO1135 showed a positive relationship with EPL in sera, indicating a significant monotonic dose-response relationship (p-trend <0.001). BHT-Q exhibited a similar relationship with EPL in villi. Inhibitory effects of BHT-Q on estradiol (E2) were observed. Molecular docking revealed SPA-protein interactions involved in E2 synthesis. SPA-induced EPL might occur with specific serum levels of AO1135 and certain villus levels of AO1010, BHT-Q, and AO2246. BHT-Q emerges as a potential biomarker for assessing EPL risk. This study provides insights into understanding of the exposure to SPAs and potential adverse outcomes in pregnant women.

Low-abundance proteins-based label-free SERS approach for high precision detection of liver cancer with different stages

BACKGROUND

Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) technology have unique advantages of rapid, simple, and highly sensitive in the detection of serum, it can be used for the detection of liver cancer. However, some protein biomarkers in body fluids are often present at ultra-low concentrations and severely interfered with by the high-abundance proteins (HAPs), which will affect the detection of specificity and accuracy in cancer screening based on the SERS immunoassay. Clearly, there is a need for an unlabeled SERS method based on low abundance proteins, which is rapid, noninvasive, and capable of high precision detection and screening of liver cancer.

RESULTS

Serum samples were collected from 60 patients with liver cancer (27 patients with stage T1 and T2 liver cancer, 33 patients with stage T3 and T4 liver cancer) and 40 healthy volunteers. Herein, immunoglobulin and albumin were separated by immune sorption and Cohn ethanol fractionation. Then, the low abundance protein (LAPs) was enriched, and high-quality SERS spectral signals were detected and obtained. Finally, combined with the principal component analysis-linear discriminant analysis (PCA-LDA) algorithm, the SERS spectrum of early liver cancer (T1-T2) and advanced liver cancer (T3-T4) could be well distinguished from normal people, and the accuracy rate was 98.5% and 100%, respectively. Moreover, SERS technology based on serum LAPs extraction combined with the partial least square-support vector machine (PLS-SVM) successfully realized the classification and prediction of normal volunteers and liver cancer patients with different tumor (T) stages, and the diagnostic accuracy of PLS-SVM reached 87.5% in the unknown testing set.

SIGNIFICANCE

The experimental results show that the serum LAPs SERS detection combined with multivariate statistical algorithms can be used for effectively distinguishing liver cancer patients from healthy volunteers, and even achieved the screening of early liver cancer with high accuracy (T1 and T2 stage). These results showed that serum LAPs SERS detection combined with a multivariate statistical diagnostic algorithm has certain application potential in early cancer screening.

Therapeutic implications of dapagliflozin on the metabolomics profile of diabetic rats: A GC-MS investigation coupled with multivariate analysis

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus is a complex metabolic disorder with systemic implications, necessitating the search for reliable biomarkers and therapeutic strategies. This study investigates the metabolomics profile alterations in diabetic rats, with a focus on the therapeutic effects of Dapagliflozin, a drug known to inhibit renal glucose reabsorption, using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry analysis.

METHODS

A GC-MS based metabolomics approach combined with multivariate and univariate statistical analyses was utilized to study serum samples from a diabetic model of Wistar rats, treated with dapagliflozin. Metabolomics pathways analysis was also performed to identify the altered metabolic pathways associated with the disease and the intervention.

RESULTS

Dapagliflozin treatment in diabetic rats resulted in normalized levels of metabolites associated with insulin resistance, notably branched-chain and aromatic amino acids. Improvements in glycine metabolism were observed, suggesting a modulatory role of the drug. Additionally, reduced palmitic acid levels indicated an alleviation of lipotoxic effects. The metabolic changes indicate a restorative effect of dapagliflozin on diabetes-induced metabolic perturbations.

CONCLUSIONS

The comprehensive metabolomics analysis demonstrated the potential of GC-MS in revealing significant metabolic pathway alterations due to dapagliflozin treatment in diabetic model rats. The therapy induced normalization of key metabolic disturbances, providing insights that could advance personalized diabetes mellitus management and therapeutic monitoring, highlighting the utility of metabolomics in understanding drug mechanisms and effects.

Detection and analysis of serum bile acid profile in patients with colonic polyps

BACKGROUND

Analyzing the variations in serum bile acid (BA) profile can provide a certain biological basis for early warning and prevention of various diseases. There is currently no comprehensive study on the relationship between the serum BA profile and colonic polyps.

AIM

To study the serum BA profile detection results of patients with colonic polyps, and analyze the correlation between BA and colonic polyps.

METHODS

From January 1, 2022, to June 1, 2023, 204 patients with colonic polyps who were diagnosed and treated at Zhongda Hospital Southeast University were chosen as the study subjects, and 135 non-polyp people who underwent physical examination were chosen as the control group. Gathering all patients' clinical information, typical biochemical indicators, and BA profile.

RESULTS

Compared with the control group, the serum levels of taurocholic acid, glycocholic acid, glycochenodeoxycholic acid, and taurochenodeoxycholic acid in the colonic polyp group were significantly higher than those in the control group, while the content of deoxycholic acid (DCA) was lower than that in the control group (P < 0.05). When colonic polyps were analyzed as subgroups, it was shown that there was a strong correlation between changes in the BA profile and polyp diameter, location, morphology, pathological kind, etc.

CONCLUSION

The serum BA profile showed significant changes in patients with colonic polyps, with a significant increase in primary conjugated BA content and a decrease in secondary free bile acid DCA content. There is a certain correlation between primary free BA and pathological parameters of polyps.

Serum analysis based on SERS combined with 2D convolutional neural network and Gramian angular field for breast cancer screening

Breast cancer is a significant cause of death among women worldwide. It is crucial to quickly and accurately diagnose breast cancer in order to reduce mortality rates. While traditional diagnostic techniques for medical imaging and pathology samples have been commonly used in breast cancer screening, they still have certain limitations. Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is a fast, highly sensitive and user-friendly method that is often combined with deep learning techniques like convolutional neural networks. This combination helps identify unique molecular spectral features, also known as "fingerprint", in biological samples such as serum. Ultimately, this approach is able to accurately screen for cancer. The Gramian angular field (GAF) algorithm can convert one-dimensional (1D) time series into two-dimensional (2D) images. These images can be used for data visualization, pattern recognition and machine learning tasks. In this study, 640 serum SERS from breast cancer patients and healthy volunteers were converted into 2D spectral images by Gramian angular field (GAF) technique. These images were then used to train and test a two-dimensional convolutional neural network-GAF (2D-CNN-GAF) model for breast cancer classification. We compared the performance of the 2D-CNN-GAF model with other methods, including one-dimensional convolutional neural network (1D-CNN), support vector machine (SVM), K-nearest neighbor (KNN) and principal component analysis-linear discriminant analysis (PCA-LDA), using various evaluation metrics such as accuracy, precision, sensitivity, F1-score, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and area under curve (AUC) value. The results showed that the 2D-CNN model outperformed the traditional models, achieving an AUC value of 0.9884, an accuracy of 98.13%, sensitivity of 98.65% and specificity of 97.67% for breast cancer classification. In this study, we used conventional nano-silver sol as the SERS-enhanced substrate and a portable laser Raman spectrometer to obtain the serum SERS data. The 2D-CNN-GAF model demonstrated accurate and automatic classification of breast cancer patients and healthy volunteers. The method does not require augmentation and preprocessing of spectral data, simplifying the processing steps of spectral data. This method has great potential for accurate breast cancer screening and also provides a useful reference in more types of cancer classification and automatic screening.

Partitioning of PFAS to serum, tissues, eggs, and hatchlings of an Australian freshwater turtle

Turtles are a potential sentinel species of aquatic ecosystem health as they inhabit aquatic ecosystems, are long lived, and potentially have high exposure to anthropogenic chemicals via food and water. This study investigated per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) tissue partitioning in female Emydura macquarii macquarii turtle, and the maternal offloading of (PFAS) into eggs and then hatchlings as well as the accumulation of PFAS in male and female Emydura macquarii macquarii serum. Significantly higher levels of perfluorosulfonic acids (PFSAs) and perfluorocarboxylic acids (PFCAs) were measured in the male serum compared to the female turtle serum, whereas perfluoroalkane sulfonamides (FASAs) were significantly higher in the female turtle serum. Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) was the predominant PFAS in the turtles whereas PFHxA was the predominant PFAS found in the surrounding water. PFHxA was not reported in any turtle tissue or the serum. The short-chain PFSAs and FASAs appeared to be highly associated with blood; long-chain PFSAs and PFCAs were more likely to be associated with tissue. Half of the PFHxS and all the long-chain PFSAs and PFCAs reported in the yolks were transferred into the hatchlings (by mass), suggesting a potential intergenerational effect.

Distribution of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in blood, serum, and urine of patients with liver cancer and associations with liver function biomarkers

Studies have shown that per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) may be hepatotoxic in animals or humans. However, data on clinical epidemiology are very limited. In this study, 21 PFASs were determined in patients with liver diseases, with the highest median concentrations detected in the serum sample (26.7 ng/mL), followed by blood (10.7 ng/mL) and urine (5.02 ng/mL). Higher total PFAS concentrations were found in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients compared to non-HCC patients, with significant discrepancies in serum and blood samples. Besides, significant correlations were also found among PFAS concentrations and age, gender, body mass index (BMI), and liver function biomarkers levels. For example, PFAS concentrations are significantly higher in males than in females; Several serum PFASs concentrations increase with age and BMI, while the serum perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS) concentrations are negatively correlated with age. In addition, multiple regression models adjusted for age, gender and BMI found that increased serum perfluorobutane sulfonic acid (PFBS), perfluoroheptane sulfonic acid (PFHpS) and perfluorohexylphosphonic acid (PFHxPA) conentrations are correlated with elevated alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) (p < 0.05). Our results provide epidemiological support for the future study on the potential clinical hepatotoxicity of PFAS.

Conjugated Bisphenol S Metabolites in Human Serum and Whole Blood

Studies have shown that bisphenol S (BPS) is mainly present as its conjugated metabolites in human blood. However, the distribution of conjugated BPS metabolites in different human blood matrices has not been characterized. In this study, paired human serum and whole blood samples (n = 79) were collected from Chinese participants, and were measured for the occurrence of BPS and 4 BPS metabolites. BPS was detectable in 49% of human serum (< LOD-1.7 ng/mL) and 78% of whole blood (< LOD-2.1 ng/mL) samples. In both human serum and whole blood, BPS-sulfate (BPS-S; 74% and 86%, respectively) and BPS-glucuronide (BPS-G; 68% and 84%, respectively) had higher detection frequency than BPS. Consistently, BPS-S was the predominant BPS metabolite in human serum (mean 0.39 ng/mL) and whole blood (0.41 ng/mL), significantly higher than BPS-G (mean 0.13 and 0.13 ng/mL, respectively). This is contrary to the data from controlled oral exposure studies on model animals and humans, in which BPS-G was the dominant BPS metabolite in serum. BPS-S (mean ± SD, 0.99 ± 0.35) had the highest partitioning coefficient between human serum and whole blood, followed by BPS-G (0.89 ± 0.27) and BPS (0.81 ± 0.28), suggesting their preferential accumulation in the red blood cell fraction. These results represent the first human data on conjugated BPS metabolites in paired human serum and whole blood, which help to elucidate of the occurrence of conjugated BPS metabolites in humans.

Diagnostic performance of serum CA-125 for overall and complicated acute appendicitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

This study aimed to analyze the diagnostic performance of serum CA-125 in acute appendicitis (AA). This review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023450988). We included prospective and retrospective original clinical studies evaluating the diagnostic performance of serum CA-125 in AA. A search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and OVID. Search terms and keywords were: (appendicitis OR appendectomy) AND (CA-125 OR CA125). Two independent reviewers selected the articles and extracted relevant data. Methodological quality was assessed using the QUADAS-2 index. A synthesis of the results, standardization of the metrics, and three random-effect meta-analyses were performed. Five studies with data from 533 participants (including 219 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of AA and 107 controls) were included in this review. The random-effect meta-analysis of serum CA-125 (AA vs controls) included 3 articles (125 AA and 70 controls) and resulted in a non-significant mean difference [95% CI] of - 6.80 [- 20.51, 6.92] U/mL (p = 0.33). The meta-analysis by subgroups that included only male patients resulted in a significant mean difference [95% CI] of 3.48 [0.46, 6.49] U/mL (p = 0.02). Although serum CA-125 does not appear to be a good overall marker for the diagnosis of AA, our subgroup analyses show that this marker could be useful for diagnosing AA in males. It also appears to be a potentially useful tool for discriminating complicated and uncomplicated AA. However, the limited number of included studies precludes drawing generalizable conclusions. Future prospective studies focused on males and in its potential ability to discriminate between complicated and uncomplicated AA are required.Registration. PROSPERO (CRD42023450988).

Identification and bioinformatics analysis of lncRNAs in serum of patients with ankylosing spondylitis

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to explore the long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) expression profiles in serum of patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS). The role of these lncRNAs in this complex autoimmune situation needs to be evaluated.

METHODS

We used high-throughput whole-transcriptome sequencing to generate sequencing data from three patients with AS and three normal controls (NC). Then, we performed bioinformatics analyses to identify the functional and biological processes associated with differentially expressed lncRNAs (DElncRNAs). We confirmed the validity of our RNA-seq data by assessing the expression of eight lncRNAs via quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) in 20 AS and 20 NC samples. We measured the correlation between the expression levels of lncRNAs and patient clinical index values using the Spearman correlation test.

RESULTS

We identified 72 significantly upregulated and 73 significantly downregulated lncRNAs in AS patients compared to NC. qRT-PCR was performed to validate the expression of selected DElncRNAs; the results demonstrated that the expression levels of MALAT1:24, NBR2:9, lnc-DLK1-35:13, lnc-LARP1-1:1, lnc-AIPL1-1:7, and lnc-SLC12A7-1:16 were consistent with the sequencing analysis results. Enrichment analysis showed that DElncRNAs mainly participated in the immune and inflammatory responses pathways, such as regulation of protein ubiquitination, major histocompatibility complex class I-mediated antigen processing and presentation, MAPkinase activation, and interleukin-17 signaling pathways. In addition, a competing endogenous RNA network was constructed to determine the interaction among the lncRNAs, microRNAs, and mRNAs based on the confirmed lncRNAs (MALAT1:24 and NBR2:9). We further found the expression of MALAT1:24 and NBR2:9 to be positively correlated with disease severity.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, our study presents a comprehensive overview of lncRNAs in the serum of AS patients, thereby contributing novel perspectives on the underlying pathogenic mechanisms of this condition. In addition, our study predicted MALAT1 has the potential to be deeply involved in the pathogenesis of AS.

Serum untargeted lipidomic characterization in a general Chinese cohort with residual per-/polyfluoroalkyl substances by liquid chromatography-drift tube ion mobility-mass spectrometry

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) remain controversial due to their high persistency and potential human toxicity. Although occupational exposure to PFAS has been widely investigated, the implications of PFAS occurrence in the general population remain to be unraveled. Considering that serum from most people contains PFAS, the aim of this study was to characterize the lipidomic profile in human serum from a general cohort (n = 40) with residual PFAS levels. The geometric means of ∑PFAS (11.8 and 4.4 ng/mL) showed significant differences (P < 0.05) for the samples with the highest (n = 20) and lowest (n = 20) concentrations from the general population respectively. Reverse-phase liquid chromatography coupled to drift tube ion mobility and high-resolution mass spectrometry using dual polarity ionization was used to characterize the lipid profile in both groups. The structural elucidation involved the integration of various parameters, such as retention time, mass-to-charge ratio, tandem mass spectra and collision cross section values. This approach yielded a total of 20 potential biomarkers linked to the perturbed glycerophospholipid metabolism, energy metabolism and sphingolipid metabolism. Among these alterations, most lipids were down-regulated and some specific lipids (PC 36:5, PC 37:4 and PI O-34:2) exhibited a relatively strong Spearman correlation and predictive capacity for PFAS contamination. This study could support further toxicological assessments and mechanistic investigations into the effects of PFAS exposure on the lipidome.

Metabolomic profiling of serum and tongue coating of pregnant women with intrahepatic cholestasis in pregnancy

Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) is associated with an increased risk of cesarean section and adverse fetal outcomes. Currently, ICP diagnosis depends largely on serum levels of bile acids and lacks sensitivity and specificity for accurate diagnosis. Tongue diagnosis is an important diagnostic tool in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and is used in our clinic as complementary treatment and personalized medicine for ICP. However, the molecular basis of the manifestation of greasy white tongue coatings in ICP remains unknown. In this study, we performed untargeted metabolomic profiling of the serum, tongue coating, and saliva of 66 pregnant women, including 22 with ICP. The metabolomic profiles of the serum and tongue coatings showed marked differences between the two clinical groups. Forty-six differentially abundant metabolites were identified, and their relative concentrations correlated with total bile acid levels. These differential metabolites included bile acids, lipids, microbiota- and diet-related metabolites, and exposomes. Conventional biochemical markers, including serum aminotransferases and bilirubin, were not significantly increased in the ICP group, whereas the total cholesterol and triglyceride levels were significantly increased as early as the first trimester. Our data provide insights into the pathophysiology of ICP and implicate the gut-liver axis and environmental exposure. Tongue coating has the potential to be a non-invasive diagnostic approach. Further studies are required to validate the clinical utility of these findings.

Decreased serum tryptophan levels in patients with MOGAD:a cross-sectional survey

BACKGROUND

Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease (MOGAD) is an inflammatory demyelinating disorder of central nervous system (CNS). Tryptophan indole catabolites have been reported to associate with the inflammatory diseases of the CNS. However, the roles of tryptophan indole catabolites have been rarely elucidated in MOGAD.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study enrolled forty MOGAD patients, twenty patients with other non-inflammatory neurological diseases (OND) and thirty-five healthy participants. Serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples of MOGAD and OND subjects during clinical attacks, serum samples of healthy participants were obtained. The concentrations of tryptophan, indoleacetic acid (IAA), indoleacrylic acid (IA) and indole-3-carboxylic acid (I-3-CA) were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS). The correlations between tryptophan indole catabolites and maintenance immunotherapy, disease duration, overall numbers of attacks, short-term outcome in MOGAD patients were investigated.

RESULTS

Levels of serum tryptophan, IAA, IA and CSF tryptophan in MOGAD patients were significantly decreased, while levels of serum I-3-CA and CSF IA were markedly increased compared with OND patients and healthy controls. Levels of serum tryptophan, CSF tryptophan and IA were significantly decreased in MOGAD patients who had received maintenance immunotherapy within 6 months before the attack. In MOGAD patients, serum and CSF tryptophan conversely correlated with disease duration and overall numbers of attacks, and serum IA negatively correlated with disease duration. Furthermore, serum tryptophan in MOGAD patients negatively correlated with the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) scores at 3 months.

CONCLUSION

This study manifested decreased serum tryptophan levels and serum tryptophan may be the potential marker to predict the short-term outcome in MOGAD patients.

Viruses associated with measles-like illnesses in Uganda

OBJECTIVES

In this study, we investigated the causes of measles-like illnesses (MLI) in the Uganda national surveillance program in order to inform diagnostic assay selection and vaccination strategies.

METHODS

We used metagenomic next-generation sequencing (M-NGS) on the Illumina platform to identify viruses associated with MLI (defined as fever and rash in the presence of either cough, coryza or conjunctivitis) in patient samples that had tested IgM negative for measles between 2010 and 2019.

RESULTS

Viral genomes were identified in 87/271 (32%) of samples, of which 44/271 (16%) contained 12 known viral pathogens. Expected viruses included rubella, human parvovirus B19, Epstein Barr virus, human herpesvirus 6B, human cytomegalovirus, varicella zoster virus and measles virus (detected within the seronegative window-period of infection) and the blood-borne hepatitis B virus. We also detected Saffold virus, human parvovirus type 4, the human adenovirus C2 and vaccine-associated poliovirus type 1.

CONCLUSIONS

The study highlights the presence of undiagnosed viruses causing MLI in Uganda, including vaccine-preventable illnesses. NGS can be used to monitor common viral infections at a population level, especially in regions where such infections are prevalent, including low and middle income countries to guide vaccination policy and optimize diagnostic assays.

Effects of maternal nutrient restriction during gestation on bovine serum microRNA abundance

The objective was to determine the effects of maternal nutrient restriction during gestation on serum microRNA (miRNA) abundance in cattle. Primiparous Angus-cross cows (n=22) were fed either control (CON; to gain 1 Kg/week) or nutrient restricted (NR; 0.55% NEm) diets based on National Research Council requirements. On day 30 of gestation, cows were blocked by body condition and randomly assigned to one of three diets: CON (n=8) days 30-190; NR (n=7) days 30-110 followed by CON days 110-190 (NR/C); or CON (n=7) days 30-110 followed by NR days 110-190 (C/NR). At 190 days of gestation, maternal serum was collected for RNA isolation and analyzed using a miRNA microarray of known Bos taurus sequences. Data were normalized using LOWESS and analyzed via ANOVA. At 190 days of gestation, 16 miRNAs exhibited differential abundance (P<0.05) between treatments. Cows that underwent NR, irrespective of when the insult occurred, had downregulated bta-miR-126-3p compared to CON cows. Bta-miR-16b was downregulated and three miRNAs upregulated in NR/C compared to C/NR and CON cows. Additionally, seven miRNAs were downregulated and four miRNAs upregulated in C/NR compared to NR/C and CON cows. Comparison of NR/C and C/NR cows revealed three differentially abundant (P<0.04) miRNAs (bta-miR-2487_L-2R-3_1ss15CT, bta-miR-215, and bta-miR-760-5p). Top KEGG pathway enrichment of target genes included: pathways in cancer, PI3K-Akt signaling, focal adhesion, Ras signaling, proteoglycans in cancer, and MAPK signaling. In summary, maternal nutrient restriction altered serum miRNA abundance profiles irrespective of the time at which the nutritional insult was induced.

Development of a Serum-Based MicroRNA Signature for Early Detection of Pancreatic Cancer: A Multicenter Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

A grim prognosis of pancreatic cancer (PCa) was attributed to the difficulty in early diagnosis of the disease.

AIMS

Identifying novel biomarkers for early detection of PCa is thus urgent to improve the overall survival rates of patients.

METHODS

The study was performed firstly by identification of candidate microRNAs (miRNAs) in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues using microarray profiles, and followed by validation in a serum-based cohort study to assess clinical utility of the candidates. In the cohorts, a total of 1273 participants from four centers were retrospectively recruited as two cohorts including training and validation cohort. The collected serum specimens were analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

We identified 27 miRNAs expressed differentially in PCa tissues as compared to the benign. Of which, the top-four was selected as a panel whose diagnostic efficacy was fully assessed in the serum specimens. The panel exhibited superior to CA19-9, CA125, CEA and CA242 in discriminating patients with early stage PCa from healthy controls or non-PCa including chronic pancreatitis as well as pancreatic cystic neoplasms, with the area under the curves (AUC) of 0.971 (95% CI 0.956-0.987) and 0.924 (95% CI 0.899-0.949), respectively. Moreover, the panel eliminated interference from other digestive tumors with a specificity of 90.2%.

CONCLUSIONS

A panel of four serum miRNAs was developed showing remarkably discriminative ability of early stage PCa from either healthy controls or other pancreatic diseases, suggesting it may be developed as a novel, noninvasive approach for early screening of PCa in clinic.

Label-free quantitative proteomics in serum reveals candidate biomarkers associated with low bone mineral density in Mexican postmenopausal women

Postmenopausal osteoporosis is a public health problem leading to an increased risk of fractures, negatively impacting women's health. The absence of sensitive and specific biomarkers for early detection of osteoporosis represents a substantial challenge for improving patient management. Herein, we aimed to identify potential candidate proteins associated with low bone mineral density (BMD) in postmenopausal women from the Mexican population. Serum samples from postmenopausal women (40 with normal BMD, 40 with osteopenia (OS), and 20 with osteoporosis (OP)) were analyzed by label-free LC-MS/MS quantitative proteomics. Proteome profiling revealed significant differences between the OS and OP groups compared to individuals with normal BMD. A quantitative comparison of proteins between groups indicated 454 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs). Compared to normal BMD, 14 and 214 DEPs were found in OS and OP groups, respectively, while 226 DEPs were identified between OS and OP groups. The protein-protein interaction and enrichment analysis of DEPs were closely linked to the bone mineral content, skeletal morphology, and immune response activation. Based on their role in bone metabolism, a panel of 12 candidate biomarkers was selected, of which 1 DEP (RYR1) was found upregulated in the OS and OP groups, 8 DEPs (APOA1, SHBG, FETB, MASP1, PTK2B, KNG1, GSN, and B2M) were upregulated in OP and 3 DEPs (APOA2, RYR3, and HBD) were downregulated in OS or OP. The proteomic analysis described here may help discover new and potentially non-invasive biomarkers for the early diagnosis of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.

Potential implication of serum lipid levels as predictive indicators for monitoring oral lichen planus

Compelling evidence indicates that dyslipidemia is positively associated with oral lichen planus (OLP). The types and magnitude of lipid metabolism disturbance in peripheral blood of OLP patients have been investigated in different studies. Yet, consensus on how these different lipid components varied in levels for the development of OLP lesions has not been reached so far. Herein, a total of 8 eligible studies were recognized, which enrolled 533 cases of OLP and 499 healthy controls. The analysis showed that the average total triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels were considerably higher, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels were significantly lower in OLP patients compared to healthy controls. Collectively, the lipid profile panel maybe serve as the potential predictive indicator for screening OLP.

Optimization of an HPLC-MS/MS method to analyze chlordecone in bovine serum and correlations with levels in liver, muscle and fat

Chlordecone is an organochlorine pesticide used from 1972 to 1993 in the French West Indies. Its extensive use and high persistence in soils induced massive contamination of the environment and of the food chain, especially in cattle through contaminated soil ingestion. To ensure suitability for consumption of bovine meat, monitoring plans are set up based on perirenal fat concentrations after slaughtering. In the present study, we have investigated an in-vivo monitoring approach by measuring chlordecone levels in serum samples. For this purpose, a sensitive high-performance liquid-chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) method following a QuEChERS extraction method was successfully optimized and validated, reaching a limit of quantification of 0.05 ng g-1 fresh weight. This method was applied to 121 serum samples collected from bovines originating from contaminated areas of Martinique and Guadeloupe. Chlordecone was detected in 88% of the samples, and quantified in 77% of the samples, with concentrations ranging from 0.05 to 22 ng g-1. Perirenal fat, liver, and muscle were also sampled on the same animals and the measured concentrations of chlordecone were statistically correlated to the levels determined in serum. Mean concentration ratios of 6.5 for fat/serum, 27.5 for liver/serum, and 3.3 for muscle/serum were calculated, meaning that chlordecone was not only distribute in fat (as expected), muscle and liver, but also in serum. Good correlations were found to allow prediction of chlordecone concentrations in muscle based on concentrations measured in serum. This study opens the door to possible pre-control of bovines before slaughter. In cases of probable non-compliance with maximum residue levels (MRLs), farm management could proceed to allow for depuration under controlled conditions. This would have a strong impact on both economic and food safety management measures.

Potential salivary and serum biomarkers for burning mouth syndrome and their relationship with anxiety/depression

Background/purpose

The pathophysiology of burning mouth syndrome (BMS), although considered a multifactorial etiology including psychological factors, is still not well understood. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the potential usage of salivary and serum biomarkers, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), interleukin-1beta (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), in diagnosing BMS and their correlations with anxiety/depression.

Materials and methods

45 BMS patients and 14 healthy volunteers were enrolled. The patients were divided into BMS with anxiety/depression group and BMS without anxiety/depression group according to the scores of the Zung Self-rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) and Zung Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS). Additionally, concentrations of BDNF, IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α in saliva and those in serum among the patients and healthy volunteers were assessed by multiplex assay using Luminex 200TM system and Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), respectively.

Results

Among all the serum biomarkers, only BDNF showed a statistically significant decrease in the patients than the healthy volunteers (P < 0.05). Regarding saliva biomarkers, BDNF, IL-1β, and IL-8 all exhibited a statistically significant increase in all the BMS patients versus the healthy volunteers (P < 0.05) but only BDNF was significantly different between patients with anxiety/depression and healthy individuals when considering anxiety/depression. Among BMS patients with anxiety/depression, saliva TNF-α had positive associations with other biomarkers including BDNF, IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8 (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The increased concentration of saliva BDNF holds strong potential for diagnosing BMS and the elevated level of saliva TNF-α is crucial in identifying BMS patients with anxiety/depression.

Pharmacokinetics of florfenicol in serum and seminal plasma in beef bulls

The objectives of this study were to compare the serum and seminal plasma pharmacokinetic profiles of florfenicol (FLO) and florfenicol amine (FLA) after the administration of FLO either by IM or SC routes in beef bulls. Four clinically healthy Hereford bulls underwent a comprehensive physical exam, including breeding soundness examination, CBC, and chemistry profile panel. Bulls were healthy and classified satisfactory potential breeders. In one group (n = 2), a single dose of FLO was administered SC in the middle of the neck at a dose of 40 mg/kg of body weight. In the second group (n = 2), a single dose was administered IM in the muscles of the neck at a dose of 20 mg/kg. Concentrations of FLO and FLA in serum and seminal plasma were determined by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS). Blood and semen samples were collected before the administration of FLO and at 12, 24, 36, 48, 72, 96, 120, 144, and 168 h after injection. The blood was collected from the coccygeal vessels, and semen was collected by electroejaculation. All samples were immediately refrigerated, processed within the first hour after collection, and finally stored at -80 °C. The mean level of total FLO in serum was higher when administered by the SC route (1,415.5 ng/mL) than by the IM route (752.4 ng/mL; P = 0.001). Differences were observed between the percentage of FLA in serum (1.8%; ranging from 1.3 to 2.9) and in seminal plasma (27.5%; ranging from 15.9 to 34.2; P = 0.0001). The mean level (±SD) of FLA was higher in seminal plasma compared to serum (467 ± 466 ng/mL and 18 ± 16 ng/mL, respectively; P = 0.001). The mean level of total FLO in seminal plasma was 1,454.8 ng/mL for the SC route and 1,872.9 ng/mL for the IM route without differences between the two routes (P = 0.51). Differences in the mean level of total FLO between serum and seminal plasma were detected (1,187 ± 2,069 ng/mL and 1,748 ± 1,906 ng/mL, respectively; P = 0.04). From the present investigation, it was concluded that FLO is a suitable antibiotic based on its pharmacokinetic attributes and may be employed for the treatment of bull genital infections when its use is indicated. To study the pharmacokinetics of FLO in seminal plasma, the analysis of FLA should be incorporated.

Placental TLR recognition of salivary and subgingival microbiota is associated with pregnancy complications

BACKGROUND

Pre-term birth, the leading cause of neonatal mortality, has been associated with maternal periodontal disease and the presence of oral pathogens in the placenta. However, the mechanisms that underpin this link are not known. This investigation aimed to identify the origins of placental microbiota and to interrogate the association between parturition complications and immune recognition of placental microbial motifs. Video Abstract METHODS: Saliva, plaque, serum, and placenta were collected during 130 full-term (FT), pre-term (PT), or pre-term complicated by pre-eclampsia (PTPE) deliveries and subjected to whole-genome shotgun sequencing. Real-time quantitative PCR was used to measure toll-like receptors (TLR) 1-10 expression in placental samples. Source tracking was employed to trace the origins of the placental microbiota.

RESULTS

We discovered 10,007 functionally annotated genes representing 420 taxa in the placenta that could not be attributed to contamination. Placental microbial composition was the biggest discriminator of pregnancy complications, outweighing hypertension, BMI, smoking, and maternal age. A machine-learning algorithm trained on this microbial dataset predicted PTPE and PT with error rates of 4.05% and 8.6% (taxonomy) and 6.21% and 7.38% (function). Logistic regression revealed 32% higher odds of parturition complication (95% CI 2.8%, 81%) for every IQR increase in the Shannon diversity index after adjusting for maternal smoking status, maternal age, and gravida. We also discovered distinct expression patterns of TLRs that detect RNA- and DNA-containing antigens in the three groups, with significant upregulation of TLR9, and concomitant downregulation of TLR7 in PTPE and PT groups, and dense correlation networks between microbial genes and these TLRs. 70-82% of placental microbiota were traced to serum and thence to the salivary and subgingival microbiomes. The oral and serum microbiomes of PTPE and PT groups displayed significant enrichment of genes encoding iron transport, exosome, adhesion, quorum sensing, lipopolysaccharide, biofilm, and steroid degradation.

CONCLUSIONS

Within the limits of cross-sectional analysis, we find evidence to suggest that oral bacteria might translocate to the placenta via serum and trigger immune signaling pathways capable of inducing placental vascular pathology. This might explain, in part, the higher incidence of obstetric syndromes in women with periodontal disease.

Metabolic responses to the occurrence and chemotherapy of pancreatic cancer: biomarker identification and prognosis prediction

As the most malignant tumor, the prognosis of pancreatic cancer is not ideal even in the small number of patients who can undergo radical surgery. As a highly heterogeneous tumor, chemotherapy resistance is a major factor leading to decreased efficacy and postoperative recurrence of pancreatic cancer. In this study, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based metabolomics was applied to identify serum metabolic characteristics of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and screen the potential biomarkers for its diagnosis. Metabolic changes of patients with different CA19-9 levels during postoperative chemotherapy were also monitored and compared to identify the differential metabolites that may affect the efficacy of chemotherapy. Finally, 19 potential serum biomarkers were screened to serve the diagnosis of PDAC, and significant metabolic differences between the two CA19-9 stratifications of PDAC were involved in energy metabolism, lipid metabolism, amino acid metabolism, and citric acid metabolism. Enrichment analysis of metabolic pathways revealed six shared pathways by PDAC and chemotherapy such as alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism, arginine biosynthesis, glutamine and glutamate metabolism, citrate cycle, pyruvate metabolism, and glycogolysis/gluconeogeneis. The similarity between the metabolic characteristics of PDAC and the metabolic responses to chemotherapy provided a reference for clinical prediction of benefits of postoperative chemotherapy in PDAC patients.

A fluorescent sensor based on single band bright red luminescent core-shell UCNPs for the high-sensitivity detection of glucose and glutathione

As the reliable biomarkers to evaluate the diabetes and neurological disease, sensitive and accurate detection of glucose and glutathione (GSH) in biological samples is necessary for early precaution and diagnosis of related-diseases. The single red upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) especially with core-shell structure can penetrate deeper biological tissues and cause less energy loss and thus have higher sensitivity and accuracy. Additionally, an enzyme-controlled cascade signal amplification (ECSAm) strategy will further enhance sensitivity. Herein, using single red UCNPs with core-shell structure as the luminescent material, a fluorescent sensor based on ECSAm was developed for the highly sensitive and accurate detection of glucose and GSH. Under the optimal conditions, the limits of detection for glucose and GSH by fluorescent method were 0.03 μM and 0.075 μM, separately. This assay was used to analyze the content of glucose and GSH in serum samples, and the obtained data was close to that of commercial blood glucose and GSH detection kit. The developed sensor platform based on single red UCNPs with core-shell structure and ECSAm can be a promising method for the accurate and sensitive detection of glucose and GSH in biological samples.

Correlation between serum cytokine levels and the effect of allogeneic serum-based eye drops

INTRODUCTION

The Institute of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine (IHTM) in Warsaw has produced autologous serum eye drops (ASEDs) for the treatment of Dry Eye Syndrome (DES) since 1991. In 2019, IHTM introduced allogeneic tears (alloSEDs) for patients on long-term treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

114 patients who applied alloSEDs were included in the study.They were asked to complete the OSDI questionnaire before and after using ASEDs and 100 units of alloSEDs drops from each donation. The OSDI index rates DES severity (0 no symptoms; 100 severe). We also compared the content of IL-1β, IL-2, IL- 6, IL-10 and VEGF in ASEDs (38 samples) and alloSEDs (15 serum samples). The study data covered the 2019-2022 period.

RESULTS

114 patients participated in the study. We compared the the effectiveness of ASEDs and alloSEDs. The average, OSDI dropped from 68.42 ± 5,86 (before application) to 51.05 ± 19,06 (after application). Data from the questionnaires (prepared at IHTM) completed and returned (41/114) present the most common indications for the use of serum drops, including DES with no underlying disease, DES secondary to GvHD (Graft versus Host Disease), Sjögren's Syndrome (SS). The study reported higher cytokine levels associated with disease entities such as SS. After application of drops with high cytokine levels, patients reported adverse reactions such as sand under the eyelids, impaired visual acuity, and worse eye lubrication.

CONCLUSIONS

AlloSEDs with acceptably low values of pro-inflammatory cytokines and sufficiently high levels of VEGF growth factor may contribute to alleviation of inflammatory eye symptoms.

Targeted metabolomic analysis of serum amino acids in heart failure patients

Heart failure (HF) has been recognized as a global epidemic with high rates of morbidity, hospitalization, and mortality. The role of amino acids, which provide the body with energy, in the development of HF is still unclear. The aim of this study was to explore changes in serum amino acids in patients with HF and identify potential biomarkers. First, the serum amino acid metabolism profiles of 44 patients with HF and 30 healthy controls (Con) were quantitatively measured. Then, candidate markers were identified through the utilization of T test, multivariate statistical analysis, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. The results found that there were 11 amino acid levels that were significantly different between patients with HF and Con. Based on ROC curve analysis, the biomarkers of eight amino acids (Glutamic acid, Taurine, L-aspartic acid, L-ornithine, Ethanolamine, L-Serine, L-Sarcosine, and Cysteine) showed high sensitivity and specificity (AUC > 0.90), and binary logistic regression analysis was used in MetaboAnalyst 5.0. Among the amino acids examined, six exhibited notable alterations in accordance with the severity of HF. In conclusion, this study cannot only provide clinicians with an objective diagnostic approach for the early identification of HF, but also enhances comprehension of the underlying mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of HF.

Correlation analysis between the amniotic fluid contamination and clinical grading of neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy and biomarkers of brain damage

BACKGROUND

Amniotic fluid contamination (AFC) is a risk factor for neonatal hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE); however, the correlation between AFC level and the incidence and clinical grading of HIE, in addition to relevant biomarkers of brain damage, have not been assessed.

METHODS

This single-center observational study included 75 neonates with moderate-to-severe HIE. The neonates with HIE were divided into four subgroups according to the AFC level: normal amniotic fluid with HIE group (NAF-HIE), I°AFC with HIE group (I°AFC-HIE), II°AFC with HIE group (II°AFC-HIE), and III°AFC with HIE group (III°AFC-HIE). The control groups consisted of 35 healthy neonates. The clinical grading of neonatal HIE was performed according to the criteria of Sarnat and Sarnat. Serum tau protein and S100B were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. Correlations of serum tau protein and S100B were evaluated using the Pearson correlation analysis.

RESULTS

(1) The incidence of neonatal HIE in the NAF-HIE group was 20 cases (26. 7%), I°AFC-HIE was 13 cases (17.3%), II°AFC-HIE was 10 cases (13.3%), and III°AFC-HIE was 32 cases (42. 7%). The incidence of moderate-to-severe HIE in the I°-III°AFC-HIE groups was 73.3% (55/75). (2) In 44 cases with severe HIE, 26 cases (59.1%) occurred in the III°AFC-HIE group, which had a significantly higher incidence of severe HIE than moderate HIE (p < 0.05). In NAF-HIE and I°AFC-HIE groups, the incidence of moderate HIE was 45.2% and 29.0%, respectively, which was higher than that of severe HIE (X2 = 9.2425, p < 0.05; X2 = 5.0472, p < 0.05, respectively). (3) Serum tau protein and S100B levels in the HIE groups were significantly higher than in the control group (all p < 0.05), and were significantly higher in the III°AFC-HIE group than in the NAF-HIE and I°AFC-HIE groups (all p < 0.05). (4) Serum tau protein and S100B levels in the severe HIE group were significantly higher in the moderate HIE group (all p < 0.05). (5) Serum tau protein and S100B levels were significantly positively correlated (r = 0.7703, p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Among children with severe HIE, the incidence of III°AFC was higher, and the levels of serum tau protein and S100B were increased. AFC level might be associated with HIE grading.

Proteomics of prostate cancer serum and plasma using low and high throughput approaches

Despite progress, MS-based proteomics in biofluids, especially blood, faces challenges such as dynamic range and throughput limitations in biomarker and disease studies. In this work, we used cutting-edge proteomics technologies to construct label-based and label-free workflows, capable of quantifying approximately 2,000 proteins in biofluids. With 70µL of blood and a single depletion strategy, we conducted an analysis of a homogenous cohort (n = 32), comparing medium-grade prostate cancer patients (Gleason score: 7(3 + 4); TNM stage: T2cN0M0, stage IIB) to healthy donors. The results revealed dozens of differentially expressed proteins in both plasma and serum. We identified the upregulation of Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA), a well-known biomarker for prostate cancer, in the serum of cancer cohort. Further bioinformatics analysis highlighted noteworthy proteins which appear to be differentially secreted into the bloodstream, making them good candidates for further exploration.

Alteration of LARGE1 abundance in patients and a mouse model of 5q-associated spinal muscular atrophy

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a neuromuscular disorder caused by recessive pathogenic variants affecting the survival of motor neuron (SMN1) gene (localized on 5q). In consequence, cells lack expression of the corresponding protein. This pathophysiological condition is clinically associated with motor neuron (MN) degeneration leading to severe muscular atrophy. Additionally, vulnerability of other cellular populations and tissues including skeletal muscle has been demonstrated. Although the therapeutic options for SMA have considerably changed, treatment responses may differ thus underlining the persistent need for validated biomarkers. To address this need and to identify novel marker proteins for SMA, we performed unbiased proteomic profiling on cerebrospinal fluid derived (CSF) from genetically proven SMA type 1-3 cases and afterwards performed ELISA studies on CSF and serum samples to validate the potential of a novel biomarker candidates in both body fluids. To further decipher the pathophysiological impact of this biomarker, immunofluorescence studies were carried out on spinal cord and skeletal muscle derived from a 5q-SMA mouse model. Proteomics revealed increase of LARGE1 in CSF derived from adult patients showing a clinical response upon treatment with nusinersen. Moreover, LARGE1 levels were validated in CSF samples of further SMA patients (type 1-3) by ELISA. These studies also unveiled a distinguishment between groups in improvement of motor skills: adult patients do present with lowered level per se at baseline visit while no elevation upon treatment in the pediatric cohort can be observed. ELISA-based studies of serum samples showed no changes in the pediatric cohort but unraveled elevated level in adult patients responding to future intervention with nusinersen, while non-responders did not show a significant increase. Additional immunofluorescence studies of LARGE1 in MN and skeletal muscle of a SMA type 3 mouse model revealed an increase of LARGE1 during disease progression. Our combined data unraveled LARGE1 as a protein dysregulated in serum and CSF of SMA-patients (and in MN and skeletal muscle of SMA mice) holding the potential to serve as a disease marker for SMA and enabling to differentiate between patients responding and non-responding to therapy with nusinersen.

Serum and salivary inflammatory biomarkers in juvenile idiopathic arthritis-an explorative cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Biomarkers may be useful in monitoring disease activity in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). With new treatment options and treatment goals in JIA, there is an urgent need for more sensitive and responsive biomarkers.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to investigate the patterns of 92 inflammation-related biomarkers in serum and saliva in a group of Norwegian children and adolescents with JIA and controls and in active and inactive JIA. In addition, we explored whether treatment with tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi) affected the biomarker levels.

METHODS

This explorative, cross-sectional study comprised a subset of children and adolescents with non-systemic JIA and matched controls from the Norwegian juvenile idiopathic arthritis study (NorJIA Study). The JIA group included individuals with clinically active or inactive JIA. Serum and unstimulated saliva were analyzed using a multiplex assay of 92 inflammation-related biomarkers. Welch's t-test and Mann-Whitney U-test were used to analyze the differences in biomarker levels between JIA and controls and between active and inactive disease.

RESULTS

We included 42 participants with JIA and 30 controls, predominantly females, with a median age of 14 years. Of the 92 biomarkers, 87 were detected in serum, 73 in saliva, and 71 in both biofluids. A pronounced difference between serum and salivary biomarker patterns was found. Most biomarkers had higher levels in serum and lower levels in saliva in JIA versus controls, and in active versus inactive disease. In serum, TNF and S100A12 levels were notably higher in JIA and active disease. The TNF increase was less pronounced when excluding TNFi-treated individuals. In saliva, several biomarkers from the chemokine family were distinctly lower in the JIA group, and levels were even lower in active disease.

CONCLUSION

In this explorative study, the serum and salivary biomarker patterns differed markedly, suggesting that saliva may not be a suitable substitute for serum when assessing systemic inflammation in JIA. Increased TNF levels in serum may not be a reliable biomarker for inflammatory activity in TNFi-treated children and adolescents with JIA. The lower levels of chemokines in saliva in JIA compared to controls and in active compared to inactive disease, warrant further investigation.

Serum proteomic panel validated for prediction of knee osteoarthritis progression

Objective

To further validate a serum proteomics panel for predicting radiographic (structural) knee OA progression.

Design

Serum peptides were targeted by multiple-reaction-monitoring mass spectrometry in the New York University cohort (n ​= ​104). Knee OA progression was defined as joint space narrowing ≥1 in the tibiofemoral compartment of one knee per study participant over a 24-month follow-up. The discriminative ability of an 11-peptide panel was evaluated by multivariable logistic regression and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), without and with demographic characteristics of age, sex, and body mass index. The association of each peptide with OA progression was assessed by odds ratios (OR) in multivariable logistic regression models adjusted for demographics.

Results

The cohort included 46 (44%) knee OA progressors. The panel of 11 peptides alone yielded AUC ​= ​0.66 (95% CI [0.55, 0.77]) for discriminating progressors from non-progressors; demographic traits alone yielded AUC ​= ​0.66 (95% CI [0.55, 0.77]). Together the 11 peptides and demographics yielded AUC ​= ​0.72 (95% CI [0.62, 0.83]). CRAC1 had the highest odds for predicting OA progression (OR 2.014, 95% CI [0.996, 4.296], p ​= ​0.058).

Conclusions

We evaluated a parsimonious serum proteomic panel and found it to be a good discriminator of knee radiographic OA progression from non-progression. Since these biomarkers are quantifiable in serum, they could be deployed relatively easily to provide a simple, cost-effective strategy for identifying and monitoring individuals at high risk of knee OA progression.

Does Aggregation of Therapeutic IgGs in PBS Offer a True Picture of What Happens in Models Derived from Human Body Fluids?

Therapeutic proteins such as monoclonal antibodies (mAb) are known to form aggregates due to various factors. Phosphate buffered saline (PBS), human serum, and human serum filtrate (HSF) are some of the models used to analyze mAb stability in physiologically relevant in-vitro conditions. In this study, aggregation of mAb in PBS and models derived from body fluids seeded with mAb samples subjected to various stresses were compared. Samples containing mAb subjected to pH, temperature, UV light, stirring, and interfacial agitation stress were seeded into different models for 2 case studies. In the first case study, %HMW (high molecular weight species) of mAb in PBS and HSF were compared using size exclusion chromatography. It was found that change in %HMW was higher in PBS compared to HSF. For example, PBS containing mAb that was subjected to UV light stress showed change in HMW by >10 % over 72 h, but the change was <5 % in HSF. In second case study, aggregates particles of FITC tagged mAb were monitored in PBS and serum using fluorescence microscope image processing. It was found that PBS and serum containing mAb subjected to stirring and interfacial agitation resulted in aggregates of >2 µm size, and average size and percentage number of particles having >10 µm size was higher in serum compared to PBS at all analysis time point. Overall, it was found that aggregation of mAb in PBS was different from that in human body fluids. Second case study also showed the importance of advanced strategies for further characterization of mAb in serum.

Differences in serum and plasma levels of microRNAs and their time-course changes after blood collection

Background

Serum and plasma are used for measurements of microRNAs (miRNAs) as biomarkers of various diseases. However, no consistent findings have been obtained regarding differences in serum and plasma levels of miRNAs. The purpose of this study was to clarify differences in serum and plasma levels of total miRNAs and their time-course changes after blood collection.

Methods

Venous blood was collected from healthy men, and samples were prepared at the time points of 0, 15, 30, 60 and 180 min after blood collection for plasma and after clot formation for serum. Levels of total miRNAs were analyzed by the hybridization method using the 3D-Gene miRNA Oligo chip.

Results

About one third of 2632 miRNAs tested showed levels high enough for comparison of serum and plasma levels and for investigation of their time-course changes. Levels of 299 miRNAs at time 0 were significantly different in serum and plasma. Levels of representative platelet-derived miRNAs including miR-185-5p, -22-3p and -320b were significantly higher in plasma than in serum, while levels of representative erythrocyte-derived miRNAs including miR-451a, -486-5p and -92a-3p were not significantly different in serum and plasma. Plasma levels of 173 miRNAs and 6 miRNAs showed significant decreasing and increasing tendencies, respectively, while there were no miRNAs in serum that showed significant time-course changes.

Conclusion

The results suggest that careful attention should be paid when comparing serum and plasma levels of miRNAs and that plasma samples should be prepared early after blood collection.

Serum proteomics identify CSF1R as a novel biomarker for postoperative recurrence in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) presents a high rate of postoperative recurrence, but its recurrent mechanisms are not fully clarified. In this study, we aim to explore biomarkers associated with the recurrence of CRSwNP and shed light on the underlying recurrent mechanisms using serum proteomics.

Methods

A prospective cohort of CRSwNP patients was conducted, and serum samples were subjected to proteomic profiling. Participants were followed up for 2 years and divided into non-Recurrence and Recurrence groups and differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were compared. The top 3 DEPs were validated in the serum and tissue samples in a validation cohort, and their predictive values for recurrence and their associations with macrophages were evaluated. In vitro, circulating macrophages were utilized to explore the influence of candidate proteins on macrophage polarization in underlying recurrent mechanisms of CRSwNP.

Results

Sixteen CRSwNP patients completed the follow-up schedule, including 10 patients in the non-Recurrence group and 6 patients in the Recurrence group. Serum proteomics revealed a distinctive protein expression profile between the 2 groups. A validation cohort comprising 51 non-recurrent and 24 recurrent CRSwNP patients was recruited. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) results revealed that circulating levels of CSF1R and CDC42 were significantly higher, and DHRS9 levels were lower in the Recurrence group in comparison with the non-Recurrence group. In addition, tissue CSF1R and CDC42 were identified to be enhanced in the Recurrence group compared to the non-Recurrence group. Receiver-operated characteristic (ROC) curves and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis suggest that both serum and tissue CSF1R were associated with the risk of postoperative recurrence. Tissue immunofluorescence (IF) revealed that CSF1R was enhanced in the tissues of patients with recurrence, especially in the mesenchymal region. Multiplex IF highlighted that CSF1R was significantly co-expressed with M2 macrophage markers. In vitro experiments confirmed that CSF1R overexpression promoted macrophage M2 polarization and cytokine production.

Conclusion

Serum proteomic signatures may affect postoperative recurrence in CRSwNP patients. CSF1R is a potential biomarker for predicting CRSwNP recurrence. Mechanistically, the recurrence of CRSwNP appears to involve the CSF1R-driven M2 polarization process.

Serum copper status of patients with colorectal cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide and a public health problem. Several clinical studies have shown that copper (Cu) is involved in carcinogenesis, possibly via cuproptosis, a new form of programmed cell death, but the conclusions from published reports are inconsistent. This study aimed at evaluating the potential of Cu dysregulation as a CRC susceptibility factor.

METHODS

In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we searched Cochrane Library, EBSCOhost, EMBASE, ProQuest, PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science for studies reporting serum Cu concentrations in CRC patients and controls from articles published till June 2023. The studies included reported measurements of serum/plasma/blood Cu levels. Meta-analyses were performed as well as study quality, heterogeneity, and small study effects were assessed. Based on a random effects model, summary standardized mean differences (SMDs) and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were applied to compare the levels of Cu between CRC patients and controls.

RESULTS

26 studies with a pooled total of9628 participants and 2578 CRC cases were included. The pooled SMD was equal to 0.85 (95% CIs -0.44; 2.14) showing that the CRC patients had higher mean Cu levels than the control subjects, but the difference was not significant (p = 0.185) and the heterogeneity was very high, I2 = 97.9% (95% CIs: 97.5-98.3%; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The pooled results were inconclusive, likely due to discordant results and inaccuracy in reporting data of some studies; further research is needed to establish whether Cu dysregulation might contribute to the CRC risk and whether it might reflect different CRC grades.

Distribution of parabens and 4-HB in human blood

Human blood has been commonly and routinely analyzed to determine internal human exposure to parabens. However, data on the occurrence of parabens and their common metabolite, p-hydroxybenzoic acid (4-HB), in different human blood matrixes is still limited. In this study, 139 pairs of serum and whole blood samples were collected from Chinese adults, and then analyzed them for 5 parabens and 4-HB. Methylparaben (MeP) and propylparaben (PrP) were consistently the predominant parabens in human serum (mean 2.3 and 2.1 ng/mL, respectively) and whole blood (1.9 and 1.3 ng/mL, respectively). Mean concentrations of 4-HB in human serum and whole blood were 7.7 and 12 ng/mL, respectively. Concentrations of parabens, except benzylparaben (BzP), and 4-HB in human serum were significantly (p < 0.01) correlated with that in whole blood. Distribution pattern of parabens and 4-HB in human blood was evaluated, for the first time, based on their partitioning between human serum and whole blood (Kp). Mean Kp values of parabens, except BzP, increased with the alkyl chain length from 0.83 to 1.6. BzP (mean 1.4) had a comparable mean Kp value to PrP (mean 1.4). Among target analytes, 4-HB had the lowest mean Kp value (0.75). These data are important to select appropriate blood matrixes for conducting human exposure assessment and epidemiological studies on parabens.

ReTimeML: a retention time predictor that supports the LC-MS/MS analysis of sphingolipids

The analysis of ceramide (Cer) and sphingomyelin (SM) lipid species using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) continues to present challenges as their precursor mass and fragmentation can correspond to multiple molecular arrangements. To address this constraint, we developed ReTimeML, a freeware that automates the expected retention times (RTs) for Cer and SM lipid profiles from complex chromatograms. ReTimeML works on the principle that LC-MS/MS experiments have pre-determined RTs from internal standards, calibrators or quality controls used throughout the analysis. Employed as reference RTs, ReTimeML subsequently extrapolates the RTs of unknowns using its machine-learned regression library of mass-to-charge (m/z) versus RT profiles, which does not require model retraining for adaptability on different LC-MS/MS pipelines. We validated ReTimeML RT estimations for various Cer and SM structures across different biologicals, tissues and LC-MS/MS setups, exhibiting a mean variance between 0.23 and 2.43% compared to user annotations. ReTimeML also aided the disambiguation of SM identities from isobar distributions in paired serum-cerebrospinal fluid from healthy volunteers, allowing us to identify a series of non-canonical SMs associated between the two biofluids comprised of a polyunsaturated structure that confers increased stability against catabolic clearance.

Microplastics ingestion and endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) by breeding seabirds in the east tropical Atlantic: Associations with trophic and foraging proxies (δ15N and δ13C)

In this study we found that endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) were omnipresent in a tropical seabird community comprising diverse ecological guilds and distinct foraging and trophic preferences. Because EDCs tend to bioaccumulate within the food web and microplastics can absorb and release harmful chemical compounds, our findings draw attention to the potential threats to wildlife. Thus, the goal of this study was to investigate the role of plastic ingestion, trophic and foraging patterns (δ15N and δ13C) of five tropical seabird species breeding in sympatry, on the exposure to EDCs, namely Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), methoxylated polybrominated diphenyl ethers (MeO-PBDEs) and personal care products (PCPs, e.g., musk fragrances and UV-filters). Results indicated that microplastics occurrence and EDCs detection frequency varied among species. Microplastics occurrence was higher in species with dual and coastal foraging strategies. Preen oil had higher levels of MeO-PBDEs and PCPs, while serum had higher levels of PBDEs. In brown boobies, the correlation between microplastics and ∑PBDEs levels was significant, suggesting that microplastics ingestion is a key PBDEs route. Trophic position (δ15N) plays a key role in PBDEs accumulation, particularly in Bulwer's petrel, which occupies a high trophic position and had more specialized feeding ecology than the other species. MeO-PBDEs were linked to foraging habitat (δ13C), although the link to foraging locations deserves further investigation. Overall, our findings not only fill key gaps in our understanding of seabirds' exposure to microplastics and EDCs, but also provide an essential baseline for future research and monitoring efforts. These findings have broader implications for the marine wildlife conservation and pollution management in sensitive environments, such as the tropical regions off West Africa.

Raman spectroscopy combined with multivariate statistical algorithms for the simultaneous screening of cervical and breast cancers

Breast and cervical cancers are becoming the leading causes of death among women worldwide, but current diagnostic methods have many drawbacks, such as being time-consuming and high cost. Raman spectroscopy, as a rapid, reliable, and non-destructive spectroscopic detection technique, has achieved many breakthrough results in the screening and prognosis of various cancer tumors. Therefore, in this study, Raman spectroscopy technology was used to diagnose breast cancer and cervical cancer. A total of 225 spectra were recorded from 87 patients with cervical cancer, 60 patients with breast cancer, and 78 healthy individuals. The obvious difference in Raman spectrum between the three groups was mainly shown at 809 cm-1 (tyrosine), 958 cm-1 (carotenoid), 1004 cm-1 (phenylalanine), 1154 cm-1 (β-carotene), 1267 cm-1 (Amide III), 1445 cm-1 (phospholipids), 1515 cm-1 (β-carotene), and 1585 cm-1 (C = C olefinic stretch). We used one-way analysis of variance for these peaks and demonstrated that they were significantly different. Then, we combined the detected Raman spectra with multivariate statistical calculations using the principal component analysis-linear discrimination algorithm (PCA-LDA) to discriminate between the three groups of collected serum samples. The diagnostic results showed that the model's accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score of the model were 92.90%, 92.62%, 92.10%, and 92.36%, respectively. These results suggest that Raman spectroscopy can achieve ultra-sensitive detection of serum, and the developed diagnostic models have great potential for the prognosis and simultaneous screening of cervical and breast cancers.

Combination protein biomarkers predict multiple sclerosis diagnosis and outcomes

Establishing biomarkers to predict multiple sclerosis diagnosis and prognosis has been challenging using a single biomarker approach. We hypothesised that a combination of biomarkers would increase the accuracy of prediction models to differentiate multiple sclerosis from other neurological disorders and enhance prognostication for people with multiple sclerosis. We measured 24 fluid biomarkers in the blood and cerebrospinal fluid of 77 people with multiple sclerosis and 80 people with other neurological disorders, using ELISA or Single Molecule Array assays. Primary outcomes were multiple sclerosis versus any other diagnosis, time to first relapse, and time to disability milestone (Expanded Disability Status Scale 6), adjusted for age and sex. Multivariate prediction models were calculated using the area under the curve value for diagnostic prediction, and concordance statistics (the percentage of each pair of events that are correctly ordered in time for each of the Cox regression models) for prognostic predictions. Predictions using combinations of biomarkers were considerably better than single biomarker predictions. The combination of cerebrospinal fluid [chitinase-3-like-1 + TNF-receptor-1 + CD27] and serum [osteopontin + MCP-1] had an area under the curve of 0.97 for diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, compared to the best discriminative single marker in blood (osteopontin: area under the curve 0.84) and in cerebrospinal fluid (chitinase-3-like-1 area under the curve 0.84). Prediction for time to next relapse was optimal with a combination of cerebrospinal fluid[vitamin D binding protein + Factor I + C1inhibitor] + serum[Factor B + Interleukin-4 + C1inhibitor] (concordance 0.80), and time to Expanded Disability Status Scale 6 with cerebrospinal fluid [C9 + Neurofilament-light] + serum[chitinase-3-like-1 + CCL27 + vitamin D binding protein + C1inhibitor] (concordance 0.98). A combination of fluid biomarkers has a higher accuracy to differentiate multiple sclerosis from other neurological disorders and significantly improved the prediction of the development of sustained disability in multiple sclerosis. Serum models rivalled those of cerebrospinal fluid, holding promise for a non-invasive approach. The utility of our biomarker models can only be established by robust validation in different and varied cohorts.

Comparative evaluation of real-time PCR and ELISA for the detection of human fascioliasis

Fascioliasis is a zoonotic parasitic infection caused by Fasciola species in humans and animals. Despite significant advances in vaccination and new therapeutic agents, little attention has been paid to validating methods for the diagnosis of fascioliasis in humans. Serological techniques are convenient assays that significantly improves the diagnosis of Fasciola infection. However, a more sensitive method is required. The aim of this study was to compare the Real-Time PCR technique with the indirect-ELISA for the detection of Fasciola hepatica in human. Using a panel of sera from patients infected with Fasciola hepatica (n = 51), other parasitic infections (n = 7), and uninfected controls (n = 12), we optimized an ELISA which employs an excretory-secretory antigens from F. hepatica for the detection of human fascioliasis. After DNA extraction from the samples, molecular analysis was done using Real-Time PCR technique based on the Fasciola ribosomal ITS1 sequence. Of 70 patient serum samples, 44 (62.86%) samples were identified as positive F. hepatica infection using ELISA and Real-Time PCR assays. There was no cross-reaction with other parasitic diseases such as toxoplasmosis, leishmaniasis, taeniasis, hydatidosis, trichinosis, toxocariasis, and strongyloidiasis. The significant difference between the agreement and similarity of the results of patients with indirect ELISA and Real-Time PCR was 94.4% and 99.2%, respectively (Cohen's kappa ≥ 0.7; P = 0.02). Based on the Kappa agreement findings, the significant agreement between the results of ELISA and Real-Time PCR indicates the accuracy and reliability of these tests in the diagnosis of F. hepatica in humans.

Non-targeted metabolomics study for discovery of hepatocellular carcinoma serum diagnostic biomarker

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most prevalent malignant cancers worldwide. Due to the asymptomatic features of HCC at early stages, patients are often diagnosed at advanced stages and missed effective treatment. Thus, there is an urgent need to identify sensitive and specific biomarkers for HCC early diagnosis. In the present study, an ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) approach was used to profile serum metabolites from HCC patients, liver cirrhosis (LC) patients, and normal controls (NC). Univariate and multivariate statistical analyses were performed to obtain the metabolomic differences of the three groups and select significantly changed metabolites that can be used as diagnostic biomarkers. In total, 757 differential metabolites were quantified among the three groups, and pathway enrichment analysis of these metabolites indicated that glycerophospholipid metabolism, pentose and glucuronate interconversions, phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis, and linoleic acid metabolism were the most altered pathways involved in HCC development. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to select and evaluate the diagnostic biomarker performance. Seven metabolites were identified as potential biomarkers that can differentiate HCC from LC and NC, and LC from NC with the good diagnostic performance of area under the curve (AUC) from 0.890 to 0.990. In summary, our findings provide highly effective biomarker candidates to differentiate HCC from LC and NC, LC, and NC, which shed insight into HCC pathological mechanisms and will be helpful in better understanding and managing HCC.

Serodiagnosis of multiple cancers using an extracellular protein kinase A autoantibody-based lateral flow platform

Extracellular protein kinase A autoantibody (ECPKA-AutoAb) has been suggested as a universal cancer biomarker due to its higher amounts in serum of several types of cancer patients than that of normal individuals. Herein, we first developed a lateral flow immunoassay (LFIA) tool, using a sandwich format, toward ECPKA-AutoAb in human serum. For this format, 3G2 as a capture antibody was identified using hybridoma technique and a series of screenings where it showed superior capacity to recognize Enzo PKA catalytic subunit alpha (Cα), compared to other PKA antibodies and antigens. Using these components, we performed sandwich ELISA toward a mimic and real sample of ECPKA-AutoAb. As per the results, limit of detection (LOD) was found to be 135 ng/mL and ECPKA-AutoAb levels were higher in various cancer patients than in normal individuals like previous studies. Based on these results, we applied this sandwich format into LFIA tool and found that the LOD of the fabricated LFIA tool showed about 3.8 ng/mL using spiked PKA-Ab, which is significantly improved compared to the LOD of sandwich ELISA. Also, the developed LFIA tool demonstrated a remarkable ability to detect significant differences in ECPKA-AutoAb levels between normal and cancer patients within 15 min, showing a potential for point-of-care (PoC) detection. One interesting point is that our LFIA strip contains an additional conjugation pad II, named because of its position behind the conjugation pad, in which PKA Cα is dried, enabling a sandwich format.

Associations of serum carotenoids with asthma and mortality in the US adults

Objective

This study was to investigate the association between serum carotenoid levels and the prevalence of asthma, as well as the relationship between serum carotenoid levels and the risk of mortality among individuals with asthma.

Methods

Data on five serum carotenoids (α-carotene, β-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, lutein/zeaxanthin, and lycopene) were obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2001-2006. Mortality data was extracted from the pertinent mortality records within the NHANES database, up to December 31, 2019. Logistic regression analysis was employed to investigate the association between serum carotenoid concentrations and asthma prevalence. Cox proportional hazards models were used to investigate the connection between serum carotenoids and mortality rates in asthma individuals.

Results

Among the study population, 1569 (12.63 %) individuals were diagnosed with asthma, while 25.01 % of asthma patients died within a median follow-up duration of 15.5 (13.8-17.3) years. After controlling for all other variables, greater serum levels of certain carotenoids, such asα-carotene, β-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, and lutein/zeaxanthin, were found to be substantially linked with a decreased prevalence of asthma. Furthermore, persons with asthma who had greater levels of serum carotenoids in the fourth quartile had a significantly lower risk of all-cause death compared to those in the first quartile. Specifically, the presence of α-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, and lutein/zeaxanthin was associated with reductions in all-cause mortality by 45 % (HR = 0.55 [0.36-0.84], Ptrend = 0.002), 38 % (HR = 0.62 [0.42-0.92], Ptrend = 0.004), and 45 % (HR = 0.55 [0.41-0.73], Ptrend<0.001), respectively. The above relationships are mostly linear and remain robust in sensitivity analyses.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that higher serum carotenoids are related with a reduced likelihood of mortality in asthmatic individuals.

Comparison of serum from lung cancer patients and from patients with benign lung nodule using FTIR spectroscopy

Lungcancer remains the leading cause of cancer related deaths in worldwide. Earlydiagnosis oflungcancer can significantly improve survival rate. However, due to its close resemblance to the malignant nodules, the possible existence of benign nodules often leads to erroneous decisions. The aim of this study was to explore whether fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy could improve the accuracy of early diagnosis of lung cancer by distinguishing lung cancer patients' (LCP') serum from patients with benign lung nodules' (PBLN') serum. In this study, A1243+1081/A1652+1539 ratio in LCP group was increased significantly compared with that in PBLN group, indicating that the ratio could be used to distinguish the serum of LCP from that of PBLN. In addition, the ratios of A2926/A2969, A1744/A2926+2859, A2926+2859/A1652+1539 were also increased significantly in LCP group compared with that in PBLN group. These findings suggest that FTIR spectroscopy might be a potentially effective method for the early diagnosis of lung cancer.

Investigating metabolic dysregulation in serum of triple transgenic Alzheimer's disease male mice: implications for pathogenesis and potential biomarkers

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a multifactorial neurodegenerative disease that lacks convenient and accessible peripheral blood diagnostic markers and effective drugs. Metabolic dysfunction is one of AD risk factors, which leaded to alterations of various metabolites in the body. Pathological changes of the brain can be reflected in blood metabolites that are expected to explain the disease mechanisms or be candidate biomarkers. The aim of this study was to investigate the changes of targeted metabolites within peripheral blood of AD mouse model, with the purpose of exploring the disease mechanism and potential biomarkers. Targeted metabolomics was used to quantify 256 metabolites in serum of triple transgenic AD (3 × Tg-AD) male mice. Compared with controls, 49 differential metabolites represented dysregulation in purine, pyrimidine, tryptophan, cysteine and methionine and glycerophospholipid metabolism. Among them, adenosine, serotonin, N-acetyl-5-hydroxytryptamine, and acetylcholine play a key role in regulating neural transmitter network. The alteration of S-adenosine-L-homocysteine, S-adenosine-L-methionine, and trimethylamine-N-oxide in AD mice serum can served as indicator of AD risk. The results revealed the changes of metabolites in serum, suggesting that metabolic dysregulation in periphery in AD mice may be related to the disturbances in neuroinhibition, the serotonergic system, sleep function, the cholinergic system, and the gut microbiota. This study provides novel insights into the dysregulation of several key metabolites and metabolic pathways in AD, presenting potential avenues for future research and the development of peripheral biomarkers.

Cytokine profile in first-episode drug-naïve major depressive disorder patients with or without anxiety

OBJECTIVE

It is known that cytokines play a role in both depression and anxiety. This study aimed to compare the levels of multiple cytokines in patients with first-episode drug-naive major depressive disorder (MDD) with or without anxiety and analyze the correlation between the level of depression or anxiety and the serum cytokine levels.

METHODS

The study involved 55 patients with first-episode drug-naive MDD. To assess anxiety symptoms, the 14-item HAMA was used. MDD patients were divided into two groups: 23 MDD patients without anxiety and 32 MDD patients with anxiety. The measurement of 37 cytokines was conducted. Serum cytokine levels between patients with MDD without anxiety and anxiety were compared. In multiple linear regression models, the relationship between the group and abnormal cytokines was explored. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to estimate diagnostic performance of serum cytokines in discriminating MDD patients with anxiety from MDD patients without anxiety. A correlation was evaluated between the scores of HAMD or HAMA and the serum cytokine levels.

RESULTS

In MDD patients with anxiety, IL-17 C and CCL17 levels were significantly lower than in MDD patients without anxiety (all P < 0.05). Multiple measurements were corrected with Benjamini-Hochberger corrections, but none of these differences persisted (all P > 0.05). The results of multiple linear regression models revealed that after controlling for other independent variables, group was not a significant independent predictor of serum IL-17 C or CCL17 (all P > 0.05). The AUC values of IL-17 C and CCL17 were 0.643 and 0.637, respectively, in discriminating MDD patients with anxiety from MDD patients without anxiety. The results of partial correlation analyses showed the scores of HAMD were negatively correlated with the IL-17 C (r = -0.314, P = 0.021) levels with sex as a covariate.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings suggest that there is a potential absence of disparity in the levels of circulating cytokines among individuals diagnosed with first-episode drug-naïve MDD, regardless of the presence or absence of comorbid anxiety.