Hyponatremia and takotsubo syndrome: a review of pathogenetic and clinical implications

Hyponatremia is a common electrolyte abnormality with important prognostic and therapeutic implications. It might exert detrimental effects on various organ systems including the central nervous system (CNS), bone, and heart along with its potential association with poor quality of life. These adverse effects might be largely mediated through a variety of mechanisms including osmotic stress, dysfunctional transmembrane exchangers, and enhanced oxidative stress.Interestingly, hyponatremia might also have an important association with takotsubo syndrome (TTS) that has been universally considered as a reversible form of cardiomyopathy usually emerging in response to various stressors. In this context, severe hyponatremia was previously reported to serve as a direct trigger of TTS evolution largely through its potential impact on CNS and heart. However, pathogenetic and clinical implications of hyponatremia still need to be thoroughly evaluated in patients with TTS. This paper aims to analyze the clinical features of published cases with TTS primarily triggered by hyponatremia and also aims to discuss the association between hyponatremia and TTS from a broader perspective.

Clear Cell Adenocarcinoma of Urethra: Clinical and Pathologic Implications and Characterization of Molecular Aberrations

PURPOSE

This study aimed to evaluate the molecular features of clear cell adenocarcinoma (CCA) of the urinary tract and investigate its pathogenic pathways and possible actionable targets.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively collected the data of patients with CCA between January 1999 and December 2016; the data were independently reviewed by two pathologists. We selected five cases of urinary CCA, based on the clinicopathological features. We analyzed these five cases by whole exome sequencing (WES) and subsequent bioinformatics analyses to determine the mutational spectrum and possible pathogenic pathways.

RESULTS

All patients were female with a median age of 62 years. All tumors were located in the urethra and showed aggressive behavior with disease progression. WES revealed several genetic alterations, including driver gene mutations (AMER1, ARID1A, CHD4, KMT2D, KRAS, PBRM1, and PIK3R1) and mutations in other important genes with tumor-suppressive and oncogenic roles (CSMD3, KEAP1, SMARCA4, and CACNA1D). We suggest putative pathogenic pathways (chromatin remodeling pathway, mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway, phosphoinositide 3-kinase/AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin pathway, and Wnt/β-catenin pathway) as candidates for targeted therapies.

CONCLUSION

Our findings shed light on the molecular background of this extremely rare tumor with poor prognosis and can help improve treatment options.

PVT1 lncRNA in lung cancer: A key player in tumorigenesis and therapeutic opportunities

The lncRNA PVT1 has emerged as a pivotal component in the intricate landscape of cancer pathogenesis, particularly in lung cancer. PVT1, situated in the 8q24 chromosomal region, has garnered attention for its aberrant expression patterns in lung cancer, correlating with tumor progression, metastasis, and poor prognosis. Numerous studies have unveiled the diverse mechanisms PVT1 contributes to lung cancer pathogenesis. It modulates critical pathways, such as cell proliferation, apoptosis evasion, angiogenesis, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. PVT1's interactions with other molecules, including microRNAs and proteins, amplify its oncogenic influence. Recent advancements in genomic and epigenetic analyses have also illuminated the intricate regulatory networks that govern PVT1 expression. Understanding PVT1's complex involvement in lung cancer holds substantial clinical implications. Targeting PVT1 presents a promising avenue for developing novel diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic interventions. This abstract encapsulates the expanding knowledge regarding the oncogenic role of PVT1 in lung cancer, underscoring the significance of further research to unravel its complete mechanistic landscape and exploit its potential for improved patient outcomes.

Omics to Unveil Diabetes Mellitus Pathogenesis and Biomarkers: Focus on Proteomics, Lipidomics, and Metabolomics

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by elevated blood sugar levels, resulting from either body's inability to produce or effectively utilize insulin. There are several types of DM, but the most common are type 1 diabetes (T1D), type 2 diabetes (T2D), and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). DM is a complex disease and a global health concern, and the current clinical markers, such as fasting glucose, are helpful in the diagnosis of DM, but are not specific and sensitive, especially when measured on the beginning of the pathogenesis. Therefore, there is a pressing need to discover new early biomarkers that can provide an early diagnosis. Omics is an important field for the discovery of potential new biomarkers, especially proteomics, metabolomics, and lipidomics, where techniques such as liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry, and nuclear magnetic resonance are utilized to identify novel DM biomarkers and their pathways. In this review, we report papers that applied omics in the context of DM to identify new markers and their relationship with this disease, with the aim of elucidating new diagnostic techniques for the main types of DM.

zooepidemicus in swine

Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus is an emerging pathogen of pigs, resulting in high-mortality outbreaks of septicaemia and abortions. Here, we investigated the early pathogenesis of S. zooepidemicus in pigs following oronasal inoculation. Fourteen pigs were inoculated with live cultures of S. zooepidemicus ST-194, and monitored at 2,4, 8, and 24 h post-inoculation. Necropsies were performed to assess gross lesions and collect samples for bacterial culture and PCR analysis at each time point. Our findings revealed that S. zooepidemicus was detectable in various organs as early as 2 h post-inoculation, including liver and spleen, demonstrating rapid dissemination within the host. Tonsil samples consistently harboured live S. zooepidemicus throughout the study period, suggesting their potential for epidemiological sampling and diagnostics. Moreover, the presence of varying bacterial loads in mesenteric lymph nodes indicated persistence, replication, and a potential source for shedding. Further studies are required to determine the initial site of replication.

The association of cytokines genes (IL-6 and IL-10) with the susceptibility to schizophrenia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Cytokines are among the important effectors and messenger molecules for restoring the homeostasis tissue after an inflammatory response. The association between IL-6 and IL-10 genes polymorphisms with the schizophrenia susceptibility have yielded controversial results. To reconcile the results, a systematic review followed by meta-analysis was performed to assess the association. We carried out literature searches of PubMed, Scopus, EBSCO, and Web of Sciences databases. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated to assess the strength of the association. Subgroup analysis, heterogeneity analyses, and publication bias were also calculated in the meta-analysis. A total of 22 case-control studies, consisting of 4,993 schizophrenic patients and 5,195 healthy controls, were included in the meta-analysis. The meta-analysis suggests that the IL-6 rs1800795 polymorphism displays a protective role against schizophrenia, while the IL-10 rs1800896 and rs1800872 polymorphisms confer an increased risk of schizophrenia. Similar results were found in subgroup analysis by ethnicity. We did not find association between IL-10 rs1800871 polymorphism and schizophrenia susceptibility. Finally, this meta-analysis suggested that the dysregulation of cytokines could lead to the pathogenesis of the schizophrenia.

Polyphenols as potential preventers of osteoporosis: A comprehensive review on antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, molecular mechanisms, and signal pathways in bone metabolism

Osteoporosis (OP) is a skeletal disorder characterized by decreased bone density, alterations in bone microstructure, and increased damage to the bones. As the population ages and life expectancy increases, OP has become a global epidemic, drawing attention from scientists and doctors. Because of polyphenols have favorable antioxidant and anti-allergy effects, which are regarded as potential methods to prevent angiocardipathy and OP. Polyphenols offer a promising approach to preventing and treating OP by affecting bone metabolism, reducing bone resolution, maintaining bone density, and lowering the differentiation level of osteoclasts (OC). There are multiple ways in which polyphenols affect bone metabolism. This article provides an overview of how polyphenols inhibit oxidative stress, exert antibacterial effects, and prevent the occurrence of OP. Furthermore, we will explore the regulatory mechanisms and signaling pathways implicated in this process.

HIV/HBV coinfection: understanding the complex interactions and their impact on spontaneous HBV clearance, chronic liver damage, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma

Compared to either HIV or hepatitis B virus (HBV) monoinfected individuals, HIV/HBV-coinfected individuals have a decreased probability of spontaneous HBV clearance and a greater risk of developing chronic liver damage and a faster progression to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. This manuscript attempts to provide a comprehensive review of the landscape of current HIV/HBV coinfection research with a focus on the intricate interactions between these two viruses. Our review will help understand the disease dynamics of HIV/HBV coinfection and has important implications for designing public health strategies.

Cellular and physiological roles of sigma factors in Vibrio spp.: A comprehensive review

Vibrio species are motile gram-negative bacteria commonly found in aquatic environments. Vibrio species include pathogenic as well as non-pathogenic strains. Pathogenic Vibrio species have been reported in invertebrates and humans, whereas non-pathogenic strains are involved in symbiotic relationships with their eukaryotic hosts. These bacteria are also able to adapt to fluctuations in temperature, salinity, and pH, in addition to oxidative stress, and osmotic pressure in aquatic ecosystems. Moreover, they have also developed protective mechanisms against the immune systems of their hosts. Vibrio species accomplish adaptation to changing environments outside or inside the host by altering their gene expression profiles. To this end, several sigma factors specifically regulate gene expression, particularly under stressful environmental conditions. Moreover, other sigma factors are associated with biofilm formation and virulence as well. This review discusses different types of sigma and anti-sigma factors of Vibrio species involved in virulence and regulation of gene expression upon changes in environmental conditions. The evolutionary relationships between sigma factors with various physiological roles in Vibrio species are also discussed extensively.

Pathogenesis and immunopathology of paraneoplastic disorders

Paraneoplastic neurologic syndromes (PNS) represent a rare group of immune-mediated complications associated with an underlying tumor. Ectopic protein expression in neoplastic cells or an aberrant immune regulation in the course of hematooncologic diseases or thymomas trigger an autoimmune response that may affect any part of the central and/or peripheral nervous system. Recent advances in drug therapies as well as novel animal models and neuropathologic studies have led to further insights on the immune pathomechanisms of PNS. Although the syndromes share common paths in pathogenesis, they may differ in the disease course, prognosis, and therapy targets, depending on the localization and type of antibody epitope. Neuropathologic hallmarks of PNS associated with antibodies directed against intracellular epitopes are characterized by T cell-dominated inflammation, reactive gliosis including microglial nodules, and neuronal degeneration. By contrast, the neuropathology of cell surface antibody-mediated PNS strongly depends on the targeted antigen and varies from B cell/plasma cell-dominated inflammation and well-preserved neurons together with a reduced expression of the target antigen in anti-NMDAR encephalitis to irreversible Purkinje cell loss in anti-P/Q-type VGCC antibody-associated paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration. The understanding of different pathomechanisms in PNS is important because they strongly correspond with therapy response and prognosis, and should guide treatment decisions.

Emerging roles and mechanism of m6A methylation in rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a multifaceted autoimmune disease characterized by systemic inflammation, affecting both articular and extra-articular structures. This condition results in inflammation of joints and synovial membranes, accompanied by the development of systemic comorbidities. Despite extensive research, the precise pathogenic mechanisms responsible for RA have yet to be completely understood. RNA methylation, a burgeoning epigenetic alteration, assumes a pivotal function in the regulation of a myriad of biological phenomena, encompassing immunity, DNA damage response, tumorigenesis, metastasis, stem cell renewal, adipocyte differentiation, circadian rhythms, cellular development and differentiation, and cell division. The N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification is the most prevalent among the various RNA modifications found in mammalian mRNA. Recent studies have provided evidence of the significant role played by m6A modification in the pathophysiological progression of RA. This review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the progress made in research focused on m6A modification in the context of RA, consolidate the underlying mechanisms involved in m6A modification during the initiation of RA and discuss the potential of targeting m6A modification as a viable therapeutic approach for RA.

Invasive Cervical Root Resorption: A Comprehensive Review on Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Invasive cervical root resorption (ICRR) is a dental pathology, marked by unexpected destruction originating in the cervical region of the tooth. This comprehensive literature review provides a holistic view into the pathogenesis, clinical manifestation, and precise management of ICRR, aiming to guide endodontists and enhance patient care and treatment outcomes. The review delves into the potential etiology of ICRR, covering contributing factors such as trauma, orthodontic treatment, and other pertinent conditions. It outlines the clinical and radiographic indicators, underscoring the crucial role of early detection and precise diagnosis in effectively managing and halting ICRR progression. The exploration of treatment approaches is thorough, ranging from non-surgical methods like vital pulp therapy or root canal treatment to surgical interventions. This review accentuates the essential role of interdisciplinary collaboration among diverse dental specialties in enhancing ICRR management. It highlights the importance of a consolidated strategy in enhancing treatment outcomes and preserving tooth structure and function. Moreover, it investigates prevention methods, risk evaluation, and identifies prospective research pathways to address the existing knowledge gaps.

Role of autophagy in pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic idiopathic inflammatory disease involving the colorectal mucosa. It is characterized by recurrent attacks, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, mucus, and purulent stool. At present, the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis is not fully understood. Most scholars generally believe that the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis is affected by genetic susceptibility, environmental factors, immune system disorders, microflora and intestinal microflora disorders, and other factors. In recent years, the concept of autophagy has gradually attracted the attention of the scientific community, and more and more scholars have begun to study the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis on the basis of autophagy theory. This review will give an overview of cellular autophagy and discuss its role in the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis.

Emerging perspectives on RNA virus-mediated infections: from pathogenesis to therapeutic interventions

RNA viruses continue to pose significant threats to global public health, necessitating a profound understanding of their pathogenic mechanisms and the development of effective therapeutic interventions. This manuscript provides a comprehensive overview of emerging perspectives on RNA virus-mediated infections, spanning from the intricate intricacies of viral pathogenesis to the forefront of innovative therapeutic strategies. A critical exploration of antiviral drugs sets the stage, highlighting the diverse classes of compounds that target various stages of the viral life cycle, underscoring the ongoing efforts to combat viral infections. Central to this discussion is the exploration of RNA-based therapeutics, with a spotlight on messenger RNA (mRNA)-based approaches that have revolutionized the landscape of antiviral interventions. Furthermore, the manuscript delves into the intricate world of delivery systems, exploring inno-vative technologies designed to enhance the efficiency and safety of mRNA vaccines. By analyzing the challenges and advancements in delivery mechanisms, this review offers a roadmap for future research and development in this critical area. Beyond conventional infectious diseases, the document explores the expanding applications of mRNA vaccines, including their promising roles in cancer immunotherapy and personalized medicine approaches. This manuscript serves as a valuable resource for researchers, clinicians, and policymakers alike, offering a nuanced perspective on RNA virus pathogenesis and the cutting-edge therapeutic interventions. By synthesizing the latest advancements and challenges, this review contributes significantly to the ongoing discourse in the field, driving the development of novel strategies to combat RNA virus-mediated infections effectively.

The potential pathogenic role of gut microbiota in rheumatic diseases: a human-centred narrative review

A growing amount of evidence suggests that gut microbiota plays an important role in human health, including a possible role in the pathogenesis of rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMD). We analysed the current evidence about the role of microbiota in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), spondyloarthritis (SpA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and systemic sclerosis (SSc). In RA, we found a general consensus regarding a reduction of diversity and a specific bacterial signature, with consistent changes according to the different ethnic and geographical areas. The major pathogenetic role in RA is recognised for P. copri, L. salivarius and Collinsella, even if findings become more heterogeneous when considering established disease. In SpA, we found a relative gut abundance of Akkermansia, Coprococcus, Ruminoccocus and a relative reduction in Bacterioides and Firmicutes spp. Human and preclinical data suggest loss of mucosal barrier, increased permeability and Th1- and Th17-mediated inflammation. Additionally, HLA-B27 seems to play a role in shaping the intestinal microbiota and the consequent inflammation. In SLE, the typical gut microbiota signature was characterised by a reduction in the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio and by enrichment of Rhodococcus, Eggerthella, Klebsiella, Prevotella, Eubacterium and Flavonifractor, even if their real pathogenic impact remains unclear. In SSc, gastrointestinal dysbiosis is well documented with an increase of pro-inflammatory species (Fusobacterium, Prevotella, Ruminococcus, Akkermansia, γ-Proteobacteria, Erwinia, Trabsulsiella, Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, Firmicutes and Actinobacteria) and a reduction of species as Faecalibacterium, Clostridium, Bacteroidetes and Rikenella. In conclusion, seems possible to recognise a distinct gut microbiota profile for each RMD, even if significant differences in bacterial species do exist between different studies and there is a high risk of bias due to the cross-sectional nature of such studies. Therefore longitudinal studies are needed, especially on patients with preclinical and early disease, to investigate the real role of gut microbiota in the pathogenesis of RMD.

Mutations in PGRN gene associated with the risk of psoriasis in Pakistan: a case control study

BACKGROUND

Psoriasis is a chronic, autoimmune, papulosquamous skin disorder, characterized by the formation of drop-like papules and silvery-white plaques surrounded by reddened or inflamed skin, existing predominantly on the scalp, knees and elbows. The characteristic inflammation and hyperproliferation of keratinocytes in psoriasis is regulated by progranulin (PGRN), which suppresses the expression and release of inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α.

METHODOLOGY

In this study mutation analysis of the PGRN gene was performed by extracting the genomic DNA from blood samples of 171 diagnosed psoriasis patients and controls through standard salting-out method, followed by amplification and sequencing of the targeted region of exon 5-7 of PGRN gene.

RESULTS

Three single nucleotide polymorphisms, rs25646, rs850713 and a novel point mutation 805A/G were identified in the PGRN gene with significant association with the disease. The variant alleles of the polymorphisms were significantly distributed among cases and controls, and statistical analysis suggested that the mutant genotypes conferred a higher risk of psoriasis development and progression. Multi-SNP haplotype analysis indicated that the CAA (OR = 8.085, 95% CI = 5.16-12.66) and the CAG (OR = 3.204, 95% CI = 1.97-5.21) haplotypes were significantly associated with psoriasis pathogenesis.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings demonstrate that polymorphisms in PGRN might act as potential molecular targets for early diagnosis of psoriasis in susceptible individuals.

Mechanisms and Therapeutic Strategies for MAFLD Targeting TLR4 Signaling Pathways

BACKGROUND

Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is one of the most common chronic liver diseases. The underlying pathophysiological mechanisms are intricate and involve various factors. Unfortunately, there is currently a lack of available effective treatment options. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are a group of pattern-recognition receptors that are responsible for activating the innate immune system. Research has demonstrated that TLR4 plays a pivotal role in the progression of MAFLD by facilitating the pathophysiological mechanisms.

SUMMARY

Lipid peroxidation, pro-inflammatory factors, insulin resistance (IR), and dysbiosis of intestinal microbiota are considered as the pathogenic mechanisms of MAFLD. This review summarizes the impact of TLR4 signaling pathways on the progression of MAFLD, specifically in relation to lipid metabolic disorders, IR, oxidative stress, and gut microbiota disorders. Additionally, we emphasize the potential therapeutic approaches for MAFLD that target TLR4 signaling pathways, including the use of plant extracts, traditional Chinese medicines, probiotics, pharmaceuticals such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor antagonists and farnesol X agonists, and lifestyle modifications such as dietary changes and exercise also considered. Furthermore, TLR4 signaling pathways have also been linked to the lean MAFLD.

KEY MESSAGES

TLR4 plays a crucial role in MAFLD by triggering IR, buildup of lipids, imbalance in gut microbiota, oxidative stress, and initiation of immune responses. The mitigation of MAFLD can be accomplished by suppressing the TLR4 signaling pathway. In the future, it could potentially emerge as a therapeutic target for the condition.

Data-independent acquisition (DIA) mass spectrometry reveals related proteins involved in the occurrence of early intestinal-type gastric cancer

Identifying proteins associated with the onset of early intestinal-type gastric cancer (EIGC) can yield valuable insights into the pathogenesis of this specific subtype of gastric cancer. Data-independent acquisition mass spectroscopy (DIA-MS) was utilized to identify the differential protein between 10 cases of EIGC and atrophic gastritis with intestinal metaplasia (NGC). The expressions of IPO4, TBL1XR1, p62/SQSTM1, PKP3, and CRTAP were verified by immunohistochemistry (IHC) in 20 EIGC samples, 17 gastric low-grade intraepithelial neoplasia (LGIN) samples, and 21 healthy controls. The prognostic values of the five genes were validated in the transcriptome data by survival analysis. A total of 4,028 proteins were identified using DIA-MS and a total of 177 differential proteins were screened with log2(fold change) > 1.5. Among them, 113 proteins were significantly up-regulated, and 64 proteins were significantly down-regulated in EIGC tissues. IHC results showed that proteins IPO4, TBL1XR1, p62/SQSTM1, PKP3, and CRTAP were highly expressed in the cytoplasm of EIGC and LGIN, which was consistent with the results of DIA-MS. Among them, p62/SQSTM1 may undergo nuclear-cytoplasmic transfer. The five protein-coding genes were associated with intestinal-type gastric cancer survival and exhibited differential expression across various disease stages. The study successfully identified differentially expressed proteins between EIGC and NGC, providing potential biomarkers and valuable insights into the mechanism underlying intestinal-type gastric cancer.

Microbial Players in Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis: Current Evidence and Concepts

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a rare cholestatic liver disease with progressive biliary inflammation, destruction of the biliary tract, and fibrosis, resulting in liver cirrhosis and end-stage liver disease. To date, liver transplantation is the only definitive treatment option for PSC. The precise etiology of PSC remains elusive, but it is widely accepted to involve a complex interplay between genetic predisposition, immunologic dysfunction, and environmental influence. In recent years, the gut-liver axis has emerged as a crucial pathway contributing to the pathogenesis of PSC, with particular focus on the role of gut microbiota. However, the role of the fungal microbiome or mycobiome has been overlooked for years, resulting in a lack of comprehensive studies on its involvement in PSC. In this review, we clarify the present clinical and mechanistic data and concepts concerning the gut bacterial and fungal microbiota in the context of PSC. This review sheds light on the role of specific microbes and elucidates the dynamics of bacterial and fungal populations. Moreover, we discuss the latest insights into microbe-altering therapeutic approaches involving the gut-liver axis and bile acid metabolism.

[Research advances in the etiology and pathogenesis of immunoglobulin A vasculitis]

Immunoglobulin A vasculitis (IgAV), also known as Henoch-Schönlein purpura, has complex etiology and pathogenesis which have not been fully clarified. The latest research shows that SARS-CoV-2 and related vaccines, human papilloma vaccine, and certain biological agents can also induce IgAV. Most studies believe that the formation of galactose-deficient IgA1 (Gd-IgA1) and Gd-IgA1-containing immune complex plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of IgAV. It is hypothesized that the pathogenesis of IgAV is associated with the binding of IgA1 to anti-endothelial cell antibodies. In addition, genetics also constitutes a major focus of IgAV research. This article reviews the new advances in the etiology of IgAV and summarizes the role of Gd-IgA1, Gd-IgA1-containing immune complex, anti-endothelial antibody, IgA1 conjugates, T lymphocyte immunity, and genetic factors in the pathogenesis of IgAV.

Evaluating the causal relationship between human blood metabolites and gastroesophageal reflux disease

BACKGROUND

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) affects approximately 13% of the global population. However, the pathogenesis of GERD has not been fully elucidated. The development of metabolomics as a branch of systems biology in recent years has opened up new avenues for the investigation of disease processes. As a powerful statistical tool, Mendelian randomization (MR) is widely used to explore the causal relationship between exposure and outcome.

AIM

To analyze of the relationship between 486 blood metabolites and GERD.

METHODS

Two-sample MR analysis was used to assess the causal relationship between blood metabolites and GERD. A genome-wide association study (GWAS) of 486 metabolites was the exposure, and two different GWAS datasets of GERD were used as endpoints for the base analysis and replication and meta-analysis. Bonferroni correction is used to determine causal correlation features (P < 1.03 × 10-4). The results were subjected to sensitivity analysis to assess heterogeneity and pleiotropy. Using the MR Steiger filtration method to detect whether there is a reverse causal relationship between metabolites and GERD. In addition, metabolic pathway analysis was conducted using the online database based MetaboAnalyst 5.0 software.

RESULTS

In MR analysis, four blood metabolites are negatively correlated with GERD: Levulinate (4-oxovalerate), stearate (18:0), adrenate (22:4n6) and p-acetamidophenylglucuronide. However, we also found a positive correlation between four blood metabolites and GERD: Kynurenine, 1-linoleoylglycerophosphoethanolamine, butyrylcarnitine and guanosine. And bonferroni correction showed that butyrylcarnitine (odd ratio 1.10, 95% confidence interval: 1.05-1.16, P = 7.71 × 10-5) was the most reliable causal metabolite. In addition, one significant pathways, the "glycerophospholipid metabolism" pathway, can be involved in the pathogenesis of GERD.

CONCLUSION

Our study found through the integration of genomics and metabolomics that butyrylcarnitine may be a potential biomarker for GERD, which will help further elucidate the pathogenesis of GERD and better guide its treatment. At the same time, this also contributes to early screening and prevention of GERD. However, the results of this study require further confirmation from both basic and clinical real-world studies.

Transcriptomic and metabolomic differences between banana varieties which are resistant or susceptible to Fusarium wilt

Background

Fusarium wilt, caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense race 4 (Foc4), is the most lethal disease of bananas in Asia.

Methods

To better understand the defense response of banana to Fusarium wilt, the transcriptome and metabolome profiles of the roots from resistant and susceptible bananas inoculated with Foc4 were compared.

Results

After Foc4 inoculation, there were 172 and 1,856 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the Foc4-susceptible variety (G1) and Foc4-resistant variety (G9), respectively. In addition, a total of 800 DEGs were identified between G1 and G9, which were mainly involved in the oxidation-reduction process, cell wall organization, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, and lipid and nitrogen metabolism, especially the DEGs of Macma4_08_g22610, Macma4_11_g19760, and Macma4_03_g06480, encoding non-classical arabinogalactan protein; GDSL-like lipase; and peroxidase. In our study, G9 showed a stronger and earlier response to Foc4 than G1. As the results of metabolomics, lipids, phenylpropanoids and polyketides, organic acids, and derivatives played an important function in response to Fusarium wilt. More importantly, Macma4_11_g19760 might be one of the key genes that gave G9 more resistance to Foc4 by a lowered expression and negative regulation of lipid metabolism. This study illustrated the difference between the transcriptomic and metabolomic profiles of resistant and susceptible bananas. These results improved the current understanding of host-pathogen interactions and will contribute to the breeding of resistant banana plants.

Identification of the protein coding capability of coronavirus defective viral genomes by mass spectrometry

During coronavirus infection, in addition to the well-known coronavirus genomes and subgenomic mRNAs, an abundance of defective viral genomes (DVGs) can also be synthesized. In this study, we aimed to examine whether DVGs can encode proteins in infected cells. Nanopore direct RNA sequencing and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis were employed. With the protein databases generated by nanopore direct RNA sequencing and the cell lysates derived from the RNA-protein pull-down assay, six DVG-encoded proteins were identified by LC-MS/MS based on the featured fusion peptides caused by recombination during DVG synthesis. The results suggest that the coronavirus DVGs have the capability to encode proteins. Consequently, future studies determining the biological function of DVG-encoded proteins may contribute to the understanding of their roles in coronavirus pathogenesis and the development of antiviral strategies.

Exploring the Autoimmune Pathogenesis in Severe Asthma

INTRODUCTION

Severe asthma has a poor response to hormone therapy and a poor level of control, so the discovery of new pathogenetic mechanisms is important for diagnosing and treating severe asthma. IL-35 may play a protective role in autoimmune diseases by directly or indirectly inhibiting the secretion of IL-17, which is an important proinflammatory factor involved in the occurrence and development of autoimmune diseases. The autologous serum skin test (ASST) is a good sensitivity and specificity screening test for autoimmune functional autoantibodies. We compared the levels of IL-35 and IL-17 in serum samples, the positive rate of ASST, the level of exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), and the atopic constitution in patients with severe asthma to those with mild-to-moderate asthma so as to explore the possible autoimmune pathogenesis of severe asthma.

METHODS

Patients with mild-to-moderate and severe asthma were enrolled. Their age, gender, smoking history, family history of asthma, history of allergic rhinitis, positive allergen results, serum total IgE (TlgE), allergen-specific IgE (slgE), routine blood, ASST results, and FeNO test results were compared and analyzed. The IL-35 and IL-17 levels in serum samples from both groups were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for comparison and analysis. The SPSS 22.0 software package was used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 50 patients with mild-to-moderate asthma and 31 patients with severe asthma were included in this study. The proportion of patients with a history of smoking and a family history of asthma was significantly higher in the severe asthma group compared to the mild-to-moderate asthma group (all p < 0.05); the number of positive allergen tests was significantly lower in patients with severe asthma compared to those with mild-to-moderate asthma (p < 0.001). The rate of positive ASST was significantly higher in patients with severe asthma than in patients with mild-to-moderate asthma (p < 0.05). Serum IL-17 levels were significantly higher in patients with severe asthma than in patients with mild-to-moderate asthma (p < 0.05), but serum IL-35 level between the two group was not significantly different (p = 0.113). ASST-positive patients had a statistically significant increase in the risk of developing severe asthma, while patients with allergen positive were less likely to develop severe asthma (positive ASST: OR = 5.277, p = 0.024; allergen positivity: OR = 0.123, p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

IL-35 has a weaker inhibitory effect on high IL-17 expression in patients with severe asthma, and the rate of positive ASST was significantly higher in patients with severe asthma, which all suggested the possibility of autoimmune pathogenesis in patients with severe asthma.

Advances and future directions in keloid research: Pathogenesis, diagnosis and personalized treatment strategies

Keloids, which are abnormal manifestations of wound healing, can result in significant functional impairment and aesthetic deformities. The pathogenesis of keloids is multifaceted and complex and influenced by various factors, such as genetics, the environment, and immune responses. The evolution of keloid treatment has progressed from traditional surgical excision to a contemporary combination of therapies including injection and radiation treatments, among others. This article provides a comprehensive review of keloid pathogenesis and treatment, emphasizing the latest advances in the field. Ultimately, this review underscores the necessity for continued research to enhance our understanding of keloid pathogenesis and to devise more effective treatments for this challenging condition.

A review on the potential risks and mechanisms of heavy metal exposure to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a chronic disease that affects patients as well as the health and economic stability of society as a whole. At the same time, heavy metal pollution is widely recognized as having a possible impact on the environment and human health. Therefore, these diseases have become important global public health issues. In recent years, researchers have shown great interest in the potential association between heavy metal exposure and the development of COPD, and there has been a substantial increase in the number of related studies. However, we still face the challenge of developing a comprehensive and integrated understanding of this complex association. Therefore, this review aimed to evaluate the existing epidemiological studies to clarify the association between heavy metal exposure and COPD. In addition, we will discuss the biological mechanisms between the two to better understand the multiple molecular pathways and possible mechanisms of action involved, and provide additional insights for the subsequent identification of potential strategies to prevent and control the effects of heavy metal exposure on the development of COPD in individuals and populations.

Alopecia areata: What's new in the epidemiology, comorbidities, and pathogenesis?

BACKGROUND

Alopecia areata (AA) is a common, acquired, and nonscarring type of hair loss that affects people of every generation and is intractable in severe and relapsing cases. Patients with AA, especially those with greater scalp involvement, have poor health-related quality-of-life scores.

PURPOSE

Following our previous review article in the April 2017 issue of the Journal of Dermatological Science, we aim to provide a pair of review articles on recent progress in multidisciplinary approaches to AA.

MAIN FINDINGS

We found more than 1800 publications on AA from July 2016 to December 2022.

CONCLUSIONS

In this review, we focused on the latest information on the epidemiology, comorbidities, and pathogenesis of AA.

Microbial diversity characterizations, associated pathogenesis and antimicrobial resistance profiling of Najafgarh drain

The Najafgarh drain plays a significant role in the pollution of the Yamuna River, accounting for 40% of the total pollution. Therefore, it is crucial to investigate and analyze the microbial diversity, metabolic functional capacity, and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) present in the Najafgarh drain. Additionally, studying the water quality and its relationship with the proliferation of microorganisms in the drain is of utmost importance. Results obtained confirmed the deteriorated water quality as physico-chemical parameters such as biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), dissolved oxygen (DO), and total suspended solids (TSS) in the range of 125-140, 400-460, 0-0.2, 25-140.4 mg/l respectively violated the standard permissible national and global standards. In addition, the next generation sequencing (NGS) analysis confirm the presence of genus such as Thauera, Arcobacter, Pseudomonas, Geobacter, Dechloromonas, Tolumonas, Sulfurospirullum, Desulfovibrio, Aeromonas, Bacteroides, Prevotella, Cloacibacterium, Bifidobacterium, Clostridium etc. along with 864 ARGs in the wastewater obtained from the Najafgarh drain. Findings confirm that the pathogenic species reported from this dataset possess severe detrimental impact on faunal and human health. Further, Pearson's r correlation analysis indicated that environmental variables, mainly total dissolved solids (TDS) and chemical oxygen demand (COD), play a pivotal role in driving microbial community structure of this heavily polluted drain. Thus, the poor water quality, presence of a microbial nexus, pathogenic markers, and ARGs throughout this drain confirmed that it would be one potential contributor to the dissemination of disease-causing agents (pathogens) to the household and drinking water supplies in the near future.

A comprehensive review of the advances in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is a rare relapsing neuroinflammatory autoimmune astrocytopathy, with a predilection for the optic nerves and spinal cord. Most cases are characterised by aquaporin-4-antibody positivity and have a relapsing disease course, which is associated with accrual of disability. Although the prognosis in NMOSD has improved markedly over the past few years owing to advances in diagnosis and therapeutics, it remains a severe disease. In this article, we review the evolution of our understanding of NMOSD, its pathogenesis, clinical features, disease course, treatment options and associated symptoms. We also address the gaps in knowledge and areas for future research focus.

A contemporary review of clade-specific virological differences in monkeypox viruses

BACKGROUND

Monkeypox virus (MPXV) is an emerging zoonotic virus that has had on-going public health impacts in endemic regions of Central and West Africa for over a half-century. Historically, the MPXV clade endemic in regions of Central Africa is associated with higher morbidity and mortality as compared with the clade endemic in West Africa.

OBJECTIVES

Here, we review the virological characteristics of MPXV and discuss potential relationships between virulence factors and clade- (and subclade-) specific differences in virulence and transmission patterns.

SOURCES

Targeted search was conducted in PubMed using ((monkeypox virus) OR (Orthopoxvirus)) AND (zoonosis)) OR ((monkeypox) OR (human mpox).

CONTENT

Forty-seven references were considered that included three publicly available data reports and/or press releases, one book chapter, and 44 published manuscripts.

IMPLICATIONS

Although zoonosis has been historically linked to emergence events in humans, epidemiological analyses of more recent outbreaks have identified increasing frequencies of human-to-human transmission. Furthermore, viral transmission during the 2022 global human mpox outbreak, caused by a recently identified MPXV subclade, has relied exclusively on human-to-human contact with no known zoonotic link.

Advances in the pathogenesis and therapeutic strategies of angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma

Angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma (AITL) is an aggressive subtype of peripheral T-cell lymphomas with its cell origin determined to be follicular helper T-cells. AITL is characterized by a prominent tumor microenvironment involving dysregulation of immune cells, signaling pathways, and extracellular matrix. Significant progress has been made in the molecular pathophysiology of AITL, including genetic mutations, immune metabolism, hematopoietic-derived microenvironment, and non-hematopoietic microenvironment cells. Early diagnosis, detection of severe complications, and timely effective treatment are crucial for managing AITL. Treatment typically involves various combination chemotherapies, but the prognosis is often poor, and relapsed and refractory AITL remains challenging, necessitating improved treatment strategies. Therefore, this article provides an overview of the pathogenesis and latest advances in the treatment of AITL, with a focus on potential therapeutic targets, novel treatment strategies, and emerging immunotherapeutic approaches.

Tracking coreceptor switch of the transmitted/founder HIV-1 identifies co-evolution of HIV-1 antigenicity, coreceptor usage and CD4 subset targeting: the RV217 acute infection cohort study

BACKGROUND

The CCR5 (R5) to CXCR4 (X4) coreceptor switch in natural HIV-1 infection is associated with faster progression to AIDS, but the mechanisms remain unclear. The difficulty in elucidating the evolutionary origin of the earliest X4 viruses limits our understanding of this phenomenon.

METHODS

We tracked the evolution of the transmitted/founder (T/F) HIV-1 in RV217 participants identified in acute infection. The origin of the X4 viruses was elucidated by single genome amplification, deep sequencing and coreceptor assay. Mutations responsible for coreceptor switch were confirmed by mutagenesis. Viral susceptibility to neutralization was determined by neutralization assay. Virus CD4 subset preference was demonstrated by sequencing HIV-1 RNA in sorted CD4 subsets.

FINDINGS

We demonstrated that the earliest X4 viruses evolved de novo from the T/F strains. Strong X4 usage can be conferred by a single mutation. The mutations responsible for coreceptor switch can confer escape to neutralization and drive the X4 variants to replicate mainly in the central memory (CM) and naïve CD4 subsets. Likely due to the smaller viral burst size of the CM and naïve subsets, the X4 variants existed at low frequency in plasma. The origin of the X4 viruses preceded accelerated CD4 decline. All except one X4 virus identified in the current study lost the conserved V3 N301 glycan site.

INTERPRETATIONS

The findings demonstrate co-evolution of HIV-1 antigenicity, coreceptor usage and CD4 subset targeting which have implications for HIV-1 therapeutics and functional cure. The observations provide evidence that coreceptor switch can function as an evolutionary mechanism of immune evasion.

FUNDING

Institute of Human Virology, National Institutes of Health, Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc, Thai Red Cross AIDS Research Centre, Gilead Sciences, Merck, and ViiV Healthcare.

Characteristics and Complete Genome Analysis of a Pathogenic Aeromonas Veronii SJ4 from Diseased Siniperca Chuatsi

As an opportunistic pathogen, Aeromonas veronii can cause hemorrhagic septicemia of various aquatic animals. In our present study, a dominant strain SJ4, isolated from naturally infected mandarin fish (Siniperca chuatsi), was identified as A. veronii according to the morphological, physiological, and biochemical features, as well as molecular identification. Intraperitoneal injection of A. veronii SJ4 into S. chuatsi revealed clinical signs similar to the natural infection, and the median lethal dosage (LD50) of the SJ4 to S. chuatsi in a week was 3.8 × 105 CFU/mL. Histopathological analysis revealed that the isolate SJ4 could cause cell enlargement, obvious hemorrhage, and inflammatory responses in S. chuatsi. Detection of virulence genes showed the isolate SJ4 carried act, fim, flgM, ompA, lip, hly, aer, and eprCAL, and the isolate SJ4 also produce caseinase, dnase, gelatinase, and hemolysin. In addition, the complete genome of A. veronii SJ4 was sequenced, and the size of the genome of A. veronii SJ4 was 4,562,694 bp, within a G + C content of 58.95%, containing 4079 coding genes. Nine hundred ten genes encoding for several virulence factors, such as type III and VI secretion systems, flagella, motility, etc., were determined based on the VFDB database. Besides, 148 antibiotic resistance-related genes in 27 categories related to tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, aminoglycosides, macrolides, chloramphenicol, and cephalosporins were also annotated. The present results suggested that A. veronii was etiological agent causing the bacterial septicemia of S. chuatsi in this time, as well as provided a valuable base for revealing pathogenesis and resistance mechanism of A. veronii.

HLA-B*27 and Ankylosing Spondylitis: 50 Years of Insights and Discoveries

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To commemorate the 50th anniversary of the groundbreaking discovery of a remarkably strong association between HLA-B*27 and ankylosing spondylitis (AS).

RECENT FINDINGS

In addition to HLA-B*27, more than 116 other recognized genetic risk variants have been identified, while epigenetic factors largely remain unexplored in this context. Among patients with AS who carry the HLA-B*27 gene, clonally expanded CD8 + T cells can be found in their bloodstream and within inflamed tissues. Moreover, the α and β chain motifs of these T-cell receptors demonstrate a distinct affinity for certain self- and microbial-derived peptides, leading to an autoimmune response that ultimately results in the onset of the disease. These distinctive peptide-binding and presentation characteristics are a hallmark of the disease-associated HLA-B*27:05 subtype but are absent in HLA-B*27:09, a subtype not associated with the disease, differing by only a single amino acid. This discovery represents a significant advancement in unraveling the 50-year-old puzzle of how HLA-B*27 contributes to the development of AS. These findings will significantly accelerate the process of identifying peptides, both self- and microbial-derived, that instigate autoimmunity. This, in return, will pave the way for the development of more accurate and effective targeted treatments. Moreover, the discovery of improved biomarkers, in conjunction with the emerging technology of electric field molecular fingerprinting, has the potential to greatly bolster early diagnosis capabilities. A very recently published groundbreak paper underscores the remarkable effectiveness of targeting and eliminating disease-causing T cells in a HLA-B*27 patients with AS. This pivotal advancement not only signifies a paradigm shift but also bolsters the potential for preventing the disease in individuals carrying high-risk genetic variants.

Decoding the role of miRNAs in oral cancer pathogenesis: A focus on signaling pathways

Oral cancer (OC) is the predominant type originating in the head and neck region. The incidence of OC is mostly associated with behavioral risk factors, including tobacco smoking and excessive alcohol intake. Additionally, there is a lower but still significant association with viral infections such as human papillomaviruses and Epstein-Barr viruses. Furthermore, it has been observed that heritable genetic variables are linked to the risk of OC, in addition to the previously mentioned acquired risk factors. The current absence of biomarkers for OC diagnosis contributes to the frequent occurrence of advanced-stage diagnoses among patients. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs, and circular RNAs, have been observed to exert a significant effect on the transcriptional control of target genes involved in cancer, either through direct or indirect mechanisms. miRNAs are a class of short ncRNAs that play a role in regulating gene expression by enabling mRNA degradation or translational repression at the post-transcriptional phase. miRNAs are known to play a fundamental role in the development of cancer and the regulation of oncogenic cell processes. Notch signaling, PTEN/Akt/mTOR axis, KRAS mutation, JAK/STAT signaling, P53, EGFR, and the VEGFs have all been linked to OC, and miRNAs have been shown to have a role in all of these. The dysregulation of miRNA has been identified in cases of OC and is linked with prognosis.

The role of marine pollution on the emergence of fish bacterial diseases

Marine pollution and bacterial disease outbreaks are two closely related dilemmas that impact marine fish production from fisheries and mariculture. Oil, heavy metals, agrochemicals, sewage, medical wastes, plastics, algal blooms, atmospheric pollutants, mariculture-related pollutants, as well as thermal and noise pollution are the most threatening marine pollutants. The release of these pollutants into the marine aquatic environment leads to significant ecological degradation and a range of non-infectious disorders in fish. Marine pollutants trigger numerous fish bacterial diseases by increasing microbial multiplication in the aquatic environment and suppressing fish immune defense mechanisms. The greater part of these microorganisms is naturally occurring in the aquatic environment. Most disease outbreaks are caused by opportunistic bacterial agents that attack stressed fish. Some infections are more serious and occur in the absence of environmental stressors. Gram-negative bacteria are the most frequent causes of these epizootics, while gram-positive bacterial agents rank second on the critical pathogens list. Vibrio spp., Photobacterium damselae subsp. Piscicida, Tenacibaculum maritimum, Edwardsiella spp., Streptococcus spp., Renibacterium salmoninarum, Pseudomonas spp., Aeromonas spp., and Mycobacterium spp. Are the most dangerous pathogens that attack fish in polluted marine aquatic environments. Effective management strategies and stringent regulations are required to prevent or mitigate the impacts of marine pollutants on aquatic animal health. This review will increase stakeholder awareness about marine pollutants and their impacts on aquatic animal health. It will support competent authorities in developing effective management strategies to mitigate marine pollution, promote the sustainability of commercial marine fisheries, and protect aquatic animal health.

Pathophysiology to advanced intra-articular drug delivery strategies: Unravelling rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is one of the most prevalent life-long autoimmune diseases with an unknown genesis. It primarily causes chronic inflammation, pain, and synovial joint-associated cartilage and bone degradation. Unfortunately, limited information is available regarding the etiology and pathogenesis of this chronic joint disorder. In the last few decades, an improved understanding of RA pathophysiology about key immune cells, antibodies, and cytokines has inspired the development of several anti-rheumatic drugs and biopharmaceuticals to act on RA-affected joints. However, life-long frequent systemic high doses of commercially available drugs are currently a limiting factor in the efficient management of RA. To address this issue, various single and double-barrier intra-articular drug delivery systems (IA-DDSs) such as nanocarriers, microparticles, hydrogels, and particles-hybrid hydrogel composite have been developed which can exclusively target the RA-affected joint cavity and release the precisely controlled therapeutic drug concentration for prolonged time whilst avoiding the systemic toxicity. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the pathogenesis of RA and discusses the rational design and development of biomaterials-based novel IA-DDs, ranging from conventional to advanced systems, for improved treatment of RA. Therefore, this review aims to unravel the pathophysiology of rheumatoid arthritis and explore cutting-edge IA-DD strategies exploiting biomaterials. It offers researchers a consolidated and up-to-date resource platform to analyze existing knowledge, identify research gaps, and contribute to the scientific literature.

Association of NLRPs with pathogenesis of dry age-related macular degeneration

BACKGROUND

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in the elderly population, and Dry AMD is the most common clinical subtype. However, effective measures for the early diagnosis and treatment of dry AMD have not been proposed. In recent years, NOD-like receptors (NLRs) have received attention in the study of AMD as an important class of pattern recognition receptors. We attempted to elucidate the pathogenesis of NLRs in dry AMD from the perspective of chronic inflammation.

METHODS

This study involved 13 patients with dry AMD, 10 age- and sex-matched normal population without any history of disease and 8 patients with wet AMD as controls. Using RT-qPCR, the mRNA expression levels of NLRs in peripheral blood peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were compared to analyze the statistical differences in the expression contents among the three populations.

RESULTS

The relative RNA expression of nucleotide-binding oligomerization-like receptor protein 12 (NLRP12) with negative regulation of inflammation was significantly lower in dry AMD patients than in normal people and wet AMD patients. And NLRX1, which also has an anti-inflammatory effect, was lower in dry AMD patients than in wet AMD patients. However, NLRP3 with proinflammatory effect was significantly expressed in wet AMD.

CONCLUSION

The significant decrease in NLRP12 in dry AMD may become a breakthrough in the study of dry AMD and systemic chronic inflammatory response. However, NLRP3 may have a more important role in wet AMD.

Gut microbiota in pre-clinical rheumatoid arthritis: From pathogenesis to preventing progression

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by progressive polyarthritis that leads to cartilage and bone damage. Pre-clinical RA is a prolonged state before clinical arthritis and RA develop, in which autoantibodies (antibodies against citrullinated proteins, rheumatoid factors) can be present due to the breakdown of immunologic self-tolerance. As early treatment initiation before the onset of polyarthritis may achieve sustained remission, optimize clinical outcomes, and even prevent RA progression, the pre-clinical RA stage is showing the prospect to be the window of opportunity for RA treatment. Growing evidence has shown the role of the gut microbiota in inducing systemic inflammation and polyarthritis via multiple mechanisms, which may involve molecular mimicry, impaired intestinal barrier function, gut microbiota-derived metabolites mediated immune regulation, modulation of the gut microbiota's effect on immune cells, intestinal epithelial cells autophagy, and the interaction between the microbiome and human leukocyte antigen alleles as well as microRNAs. Since gut microbiota alterations in pre-clinical RA have been reported, potential therapies for modifying the gut microbiota in pre-clinical RA, including natural products, antibiotic therapy, fecal microbiota transplantation, probiotics, microRNAs therapy, vitamin D supplementation, autophagy inducer-based treatment, prebiotics, and diet, holds great promise for the successful treatment and even prevention of RA via altering ongoing inflammation. In this review, we summarized current studies that include pathogenesis of gut microbiota in RA progression and promising therapeutic strategies to provide novel ideas for the management of pre-clinical RA and possibly preventing arthritis progression.

Pathogenicity and virulence of henipaviruses

Paramyxoviruses are a family of single-stranded negative-sense RNA viruses, many of which are responsible for a range of respiratory and neurological diseases in humans and animals. Among the most notable are the henipaviruses, which include the deadly Nipah (NiV) and Hendra (HeV) viruses, the causative agents of outbreaks of severe disease and high case fatality rates in humans and animals. NiV and HeV are maintained in fruit bat reservoirs primarily in the family Pteropus and spillover into humans directly or by an intermediate amplifying host such as swine or horses. Recently, non-chiropteran associated Langya (LayV), Gamak (GAKV), and Mojiang (MojV) viruses have been discovered with confirmed or suspected ability to cause disease in humans or animals. These viruses are less genetically related to HeV and NiV yet share many features with their better-known counterparts. Recent advances in surveillance of wild animal reservoir viruses have revealed a high number of henipaviral genome sequences distributed across most continents, and mammalian orders previously unknown to harbour henipaviruses. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the range of pathogenesis observed for the henipaviruses as well as their replication cycle, epidemiology, genomics, and host responses. We focus on the most pathogenic viruses, including NiV, HeV, LayV, and GAKV, as well as the experimentally non-pathogenic CedV. We also highlight the emerging threats posed by these and potentially other closely related viruses.

Ubiquitin proteasome system and glaucoma: A survey of genetics and molecular biology studies supporting a link with pathogenic and therapeutic relevance

Glaucoma represents a group of progressive neurodegenerative diseases characterized by the loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and their axons with subsequent visual field impairment. The disease develops through largely uncharacterized molecular mechanisms, that are likely to occur in different localized cell types, either in the anterior (e.g., trabecular meshwork cells) or posterior (e.g., Muller glia, retinal ganglion cells) segments of the eye. Genomic and preclinical studies suggest that glaucoma pathogenesis may develop through altered ubiquitin (Ub) signaling. Ubiquitin conjugation, referred to as ubiquitylation, is a major post-synthetic modification catalyzed by E1-E2-E3 enzymes, that profoundly regulates the turnover, trafficking and biological activity of the targeted protein. The development of new technologies, including proteomics workflows, allows the biology of ubiquitin signaling to be described in health and disease. This post-translational modification is emerging as a key role player in neurodegeneration, gaining relevance for novel therapeutic options, such as in the case of Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras technology. Although scientific evidence supports a link between Ub and glaucoma, their relationship is still not well-understood. Therefore, this review provides a detailed research-oriented discussion on current evidence of Ub signaling in glaucoma. A review of genomic and genetic data is provided followed by an in-depth discussion of experimental data on ASB10, parkin and optineurin, which are proteins that play a key role in Ub signaling and have been associated with glaucoma.

Applying proteomics in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease: From mechanism to biomarkers

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), which represents the most common cause of liver disease, is emerging as a major health problem around the world. However, the molecular events that underline the pathogenesis and the progression of MASLD remain to be fully elucidated. Advanced stages of MASLD is strongly associated with liver-related outcomes and overall mortality. Despite this, highly accurate, sensitive, and non-invasive diagnostic tools are currently not aviailable, yet no FDA approved drugs for MASLD. The advance of proteomics has enable the study of protein expression, post-translational modifications (PTMs), subcellular distribution, and interactions. In this review, we discuss insights gained from the recent proteomics studies that shed new light on the pathogenesis, diagnosis and potential theraputic targets of MASLD.

Evaluation of MicroRNA as Minimal Residual Disease in Leukemia: Diagnostic and Prognostic Approach: A Review

Various factors are effective in the development of minimal residual disease (MRD), one of which is MicroRNAs (miRNAs). miRNAs and their dysfunction in gene expression have influential role in the pathogenesis of leukemia. Nowadays, treatments that lead to the suppression or replacement of miRNAs have been developed. Focusing on the role of miRNAs in managing the treatment of leukemia, in this review article we have investigated the miRNAs and signaling pathways involved in the process of apoptosis and cell proliferation, as well as miRNAs with oncogenic function in malignant leukemia cells. Among the studied miRNAs, miR-99a, and miR-181a play an essential role in apoptosis, proliferation and oncogenesis via AKT, MAPK, RAS, and mTOR signaling pathways. miR-223 and miR-125a affect apoptosis and oncogenesis via Wnt/B-catenin, PTEN/PI3K, and STAT5/AKT/ERK/Src signaling pathways. miR-100 also affects both apoptosis and oncogenesis; it acts via IGF1 and mTOR signaling pathways.

Deciphering signaling pathway interplay via miRNAs in malignant pleural mesothelioma

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a highly invasive form of lung cancer that adversely affects the pleural and other linings of the lungs. MPM is a very aggressive tumor that often has an advanced stage at diagnosis and a bad prognosis (between 7 and 12 months). When people who have been exposed to asbestos experience pleural effusion and pain that is not explained, MPM should be suspected. After being diagnosed, most MPM patients have a one- to four-year life expectancy. The life expectancy is approximately six months without treatment. Despite the plethora of current molecular investigations, a definitive universal molecular signature has yet to be discovered as the causative factor for the pathogenesis of MPM. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are known to play a crucial role in the regulation of gene expression at the posttranscriptional level. The association between the expression of these short, non-coding RNAs and several neoplasms, including MPM, has been observed. Although the incidence of MPM is very low, there has been a significant increase in research focused on miRNAs in the past few years. In addition, miRNAs have been found to have a role in various regulatory signaling pathways associated with MPM, such as the Notch signaling network, Wnt/β-catenin, mutation of KRAS, JAK/STAT signaling circuit, protein kinase B (AKT), and Hedgehog signaling pathway. This study provides a comprehensive overview of the existing understanding of the roles of miRNAs in the underlying mechanisms of pathogenic symptoms in MPM, highlighting their potential as viable targets for therapeutic interventions.

Attenuation of biofilm and quorum sensing regulated virulence factors of an opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa by phytofabricated silver nanoparticles

Green-synthesized nanoparticles provide an effective strategy for inhibiting microbial pathogenesis by affecting biofilm formation, quorum sensing (QS), and other surface properties of microorganisms. QS is a density-dependent communication signaling cascade that regulates biofilm formation and other pathogenic factors of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In this context, the effect of phytofabricated silver nanoparticles (CC-AgNPs) synthesized using Cuphea carthagenensis extract on biofilm, QS, and QS-dependent virulence factors of P. aeruginosa were evaluated in this study. CC-AgNPs demonstrated significant attenuation of biofilm, QS, and QS-dependent virulence factors at sub-MICs. A significant inhibition of 88.39 ± 4.32 %, 79.64 ± 3.31 %, 73.07 ± 3.0 %, and 61.67 ± 1.5 % of biofilm formation, quorum sensing, pyocyanin, and LasB elastase, respectively was reported in the study at 20 μg/mL. The study also demonstrated a significant reduction of LasA Staphylolytic activity and 91.37 ± 1.05 % exoprotease production in comparison to untreated control. The lower concentrations of CC-AgNPs also demonstrated significant attenuation of biofilm and other virulence factors suggesting the strong potency of NPs against P. aeruginosa. XTT analysis reported the effect of CC-AgNPs on sessile cells of P. aeruginosa without impacting growth of planktonic cells at sub-MICs. Cell-proliferation study in human cell lines (HEK 293 and Caco-2 cells) demonstrated the safe nature of CC-AgNPs at tested concentrations. This study is novel in a way that environmentally friendly CC-AgNPs were used to inhibit QS at sub-MICs without killing the tested strains, therefore, could be developed as an anti-virulent drug to overcome biofilm and antimicrobial resistance problems.

Advancing Treatment in Bullous Pemphigoid: A Comprehensive Review of Novel Therapeutic Targets and Approaches

Bullous pemphigoid is one of the most common autoimmune bullous diseases occurring primarily in the elderly. Pathogenic autoantibodies against BP180 and BP230 at the dermal-epidermal junction cause subepidermal blisters, erosions, and intense pruritus, all of which adversely affect the patients' quality of life and may increase their morbidity and mortality. Current systemic treatment options for bullous pemphigoid are limited to corticosteroids and immunosuppressants, which can have substantial side effects on these vulnerable patients that even exceed their therapeutic benefits. Therefore, more precisely, targeting therapies to the pathogenic cells and molecules in bullous pemphigoid is an urgent issue. In this review, we describe the pathophysiology of bullous pemphigoid, focusing on autoantibodies, complements, eosinophils, neutrophils, proteases, and the T helper 2 and 17 axes since they are crucial in promoting proinflammatory environments. We also highlight the emerging therapeutic targets for bullous pemphigoid and their latest discoveries in clinical trials or experimental studies. Further well-designed studies are required to establish the efficacy and safety of these prospective therapeutic options.

Pathogenetic treatments for diabetic peripheral neuropathy

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is found in around one third of people with diabetes, but remains inadequately diagnosed and treated. Its management includes three cornerstones: 1) causal treatment with lifestyle modification, intensive diabetes therapy aimed at near-normoglycemia, and multifactorial cardiovascular risk intervention, 2) pathogenesis-oriented pharmacotherapy, and 3) symptomatic pain relief. Since symptomatic analgesic monotherapy only relieves the pain without targeting the underlying neuropathy and both has limited efficacy and is associated with adverse events, there is an unmet need for additional approaches derived from the pathogenetic concepts of DPN. Preclinical studies have suggested that diabetic neuropathy can be prevented or improved through the use of various agents that interfere with the pathophysiology of the underlying condition. Some of these encouraging findings could be translated successfully into the clinical setting. Efficacy and excellent safety were demonstrated in several meta-analyses (α-lipoic acid) and randomized clinical trials (benfotiamine, actovegin, epalrestat) in the treatment of symptomatic DPN. The NATHAN 1 trial demonstrated an improvement of neuropathic signs (deficits, impairments) after four years in asymptomatic DPN. These compounds are currently authorized for treatment of DPN in several countries. Long-term pivotal clinical trials should further establish their value as mono- and combination therapies in DPN.