Neuronal guidance signaling in neurodegenerative diseases: Key regulators that function at neuron-glia and neuroimmune interfaces

The nervous system processes a vast amount of information, performing computations that underlie perception, cognition, and behavior. During development, neuronal guidance genes, which encode extracellular cues, their receptors, and downstream signal transducers, organize neural wiring to generate the complex architecture of the nervous system. It is now evident that many of these neuroguidance cues and their receptors are active during development and are also expressed in the adult nervous system. This suggests that neuronal guidance pathways are critical not only for neural wiring but also for ongoing function and maintenance of the mature nervous system. Supporting this view, these pathways continue to regulate synaptic connectivity, plasticity, and remodeling, and overall brain homeostasis throughout adulthood. Genetic and transcriptomic analyses have further revealed many neuronal guidance genes to be associated with a wide range of neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders. Although the precise mechanisms by which aberrant neuronal guidance signaling drives the pathogenesis of these diseases remain to be clarified, emerging evidence points to several common themes, including dysfunction in neurons, microglia, astrocytes, and endothelial cells, along with dysregulation of neuron-microglia-astrocyte, neuroimmune, and neurovascular interactions. In this review, we explore recent advances in understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which aberrant neuronal guidance signaling contributes to disease pathogenesis through altered cell-cell interactions. For instance, recent studies have unveiled two distinct semaphorin-plexin signaling pathways that affect microglial activation and neuroinflammation. We discuss the challenges ahead, along with the therapeutic potentials of targeting neuronal guidance pathways for treating neurodegenerative diseases. Particular focus is placed on how neuronal guidance mechanisms control neuron-glia and neuroimmune interactions and modulate microglial function under physiological and pathological conditions. Specifically, we examine the crosstalk between neuronal guidance signaling and TREM2, a master regulator of microglial function, in the context of pathogenic protein aggregates. It is well-established that age is a major risk factor for neurodegeneration. Future research should address how aging and neuronal guidance signaling interact to influence an individual's susceptibility to various late-onset neurological diseases and how the progression of these diseases could be therapeutically blocked by targeting neuronal guidance pathways.

Genomic and Transcriptomic Characterization of Protein Kinase C Fusion Melanocytic Neoplasms With Distinctive Hypopigmented Histomorphology: A Single-Institution Study

BACKGROUND

Genomic fusions involving Protein Kinase C (PKC or PRKC) have been classically identified in a subset of melanocytic neoplasms with heavy melanin pigmentation as described in older series. They were recently reclassified from the pigmented epithelioid melanocytoma (PEM) category to the blue nevus (BN) category in the fifth edition of the World Health Organization (WHO) Classification of Skin Tumors.

METHODS

Herein, we report a series of eight mostly hypopigmented PRKC fusion melanocytic tumors with novel comprehensive molecular characterization. Clinical, histopathologic, and immunohistochemical findings were reviewed. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) data on genomic and transcriptomic levels were explored.

RESULTS

Histomorphology showed a biphasic pattern with hypercellular areas and hypocellular areas with dense fibrotic stroma and collagen trapping. The clinical courses were uncomplicated after excisions. NGS revealed three cases of PRKCB fusion and five cases of PRKCA fusions. RNA differential analysis against six blue nevi showed a group of genes with significantly higher transcription levels and strong enrichment in the direct p53 effectors gene set. PRKC fusion tumors also demonstrated significantly stronger p53 IHC staining.

CONCLUSION

We further expand the morphologic spectrum of PRKC fusion melanocytic tumors and provide insight into their morphologic identification. Our novel transcriptome-level findings provide insight into the nuanced molecular events and new evidence for classification.

FAK regulates trophoblast functions of invasion and proliferation through Rap1 pathway in early-onset preeclampsia

This investigation examined focal adhesion kinase (FAK)'s role in trophoblast cellular processes during early-onset preeclampsia (EOPE). We analyzed FAK and its phosphorylated form (pY397FAK) expression patterns in both normal (n = 15) and EOPE (n = 15) placental tissues, including first trimester samples, using immunohistochemistry and Western blot techniques. Next, Y15 was used to inhibit FAK activity. CCK-8 detection, Western blotting, wound healing assay, Transwell assays and flow cytometry were employed to systematically evaluate FAK's impact on trophoblast cell line HTR8/SVneo. Through transcriptomic and bioinformatics analyses, we identified Rap1 as a potential downstream mediator of FAK signaling in trophoblasts. In a mouse model of preeclampsia, we found decreased expression of both FAK and Rap1 in placental tissues, supporting our in vitro findings. These results suggest that FAK may contribute to preeclampsia development by regulating trophoblast invasion and proliferation through the Rap1 signaling pathway. Our study provides insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying EOPE and identifies FAK as a potential therapeutic target for preeclampsia treatment.

The evolving landscape of oncolytic virus immunotherapy: combinatorial strategies and novel engineering approaches

Oncolytic viruses (OVs) are a promising class of cancer therapy, exploiting their abilities to selectively infect and kill cancer cells while stimulating antitumor immune responses. The current assessment explores the changing horizons of OV immunotherapy, focusing on recent advances in technology plans to improve OV projects and combined approaches to improve curative efficacy. We discuss how OVs induce direct oncolysis and promote the release of tumor-associated antigens, leading to the activation of both innate and adaptive immunity. Special attention shall be given to programs for arm OVs to express curative genes, modify the tumor microenvironment and overcome immunosuppression. Moreover, we assess the synergies of uniting OVs with other immunotherapeutic techniques, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors and cell therapy, to improve tolerant outcomes. The present assessment provides an understanding of the relevant declaration of the OV analysis, highlighting the main obstacles and the future directions for the development of other capable and targeted cancer immunotherapy.

PRKCQ Is Dispensable for Spermatogenesis in Mice

Protein kinase C (PKC) family is evolutionally conserved and involved in various signaling cascades in all cells. Of the family, PRKCQ is dominatingly expressed in testis, however, its molecular functionality in spermatogenesis and male fertility remains unclear. To evaluate the role of PRKCQ in spermatogenesis, Prkcq knockout mice were generated using CRISPR/Cas9 system. Histological and immunofluorescence assays by different markers were employed to assess the testicular cells variation. Sperm parameters were analyzed by computer-assisted sperm analyzer. qPCR assay was used to examine the expression levels of other PKC family genes. We found that PRKCQ was conserved throughout evolution and highly expressed in testis. Prkcq-/- mice were successfully generated and developed viably. Normal fertility was observed in Prkcq-/- males. Prkcq-/- mice exhibited no defects in spermatogenic cells and mature sperm were full in epididymis. Furthermore, there were no differences in sperm motility and progressive motility between Prkcq-/- males and controls. Our findings report a detailed phenotypic analysis of Prkcq-/- males and indicate that PRKCQ is not required for spermatogenesis in male mice, which can provide basic information for other researchers.

Dairy Cattle Reproduction, Production, and Disease Resistance in the Omics Era: Genome-Wide Selection Signatures Identify Candidate Genes in Sahiwal Cattle

Climate emergency and ecological sustainability call for new ways of thinking livestock health, including the dairy cattle. This study unpacks the genetic diversity and selection sweeps of Sahiwal cattle in relation to adaptability, production, and disease resistance. Using nucleotide diversity (π) calculated from 10 kb windows across the genome with VCFtools, 716 regions of genetic diversity were identified across 29 chromosomes, and importantly, with chromosome 15 showing the highest density. A total of 92 quantitative trait loci (QTL) linked genes were analyzed, with chromosome 1 harboring the highest number. Trait association analysis using the Cattle QTL database showed that 14 genes were linked to production traits, 10 to reproduction traits, and 8 to disease susceptibility. Notable genes included CSMD2 and EFNA1, which influence milk production traits such as fat percentage and yield, and PCBP3 and SGCD, which affect reproductive traits. Additionally, the genes TBXAS1 and ASTN2 were associated with disease traits such as bovine respiratory disease and sole ulcers. Selection sweeps, identified using Tajima's D, revealed 728 sweeps across the genome, with chromosomes 6 and 8 showing the highest frequencies. These sweeps indicate regions under strong selective pressure, likely due to the breed's adaptation to arid environments and specific trait selection. The present study highlights how genetic diversity and selection sweeps contribute to Sahiwal cattle's adaptability, production efficiency, and disease resistance. The insights reported here provide a foundation for livestock health and targeted breeding strategies in the case of Sahiwal cattle under diverse ecological conditions such as tropical climate.

Preeclamptic Placental CD19+ B Cells Are Causal to Hypertension During Pregnancy

BACKGROUND

Patients with preeclampsia exhibit hypertension and chronic inflammation characterized by CD (cluster determinant) 4+T cells, B cells secreting AT1-AA (agonistic autoantibody against the angiotensin II type 1 receptor), inflammatory cytokines, and complement activation. Importantly, a history of COVID-19 during pregnancy is associated with an increased incidence of a preeclampsia-like phenotype and is partly mediated by CD4+T cells. We recently showed pregnant patients with a history of COVID-19 with or without preeclampsia produce AT1-AA, indicating the importance of B lymphocytes in the progression of preeclampsia and possibly of COVID-19. Therefore, we hypothesize that B cells from patients with preeclampsia with or without COVID-19 history induce the preeclampsia phenotype through AT1-AA.

METHODS

Placental B cells were isolated from normal pregnant, patients with preeclampsia, normotensive COVID-19 history, or preeclampsia COVID-19 history at delivery. Then, 3×105 B cells were transferred intraperitoneally into pregnant athymic rats at gestational day 12. On gestational day 18, carotid catheters were inserted. On gestational day 19, mean arterial pressure was measured, and tissues were collected.

RESULTS

Preeclampsia B-cell recipients had significantly increased mean arterial pressure, AT1-AA, inflammatory cytokines, and complement activation compared with normal pregnant B-cell recipients. Recipients of B cells with COVID-19 history had markers of inflammation and hypertension but not to the level of significance as recipients of preeclampsia B cells. Inhibition of AT1-AA attenuated the hypertension that occurred in response to preeclampsia or preeclampsia B cells with COVID-19 history.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates the important role of B cells in contributing to hypertension and chronic inflammation during preeclampsia with or without COVID-19 history through secretion of AT1-AA.

Relation between serum magnesium and outcome in patients with Escherichia coli sepsis

OBJECTIVE

Escherichia coli (E.coli) is the leading pathogen for deaths associated with antimicrobial resistance, making it the most problematic bacteria for human infections. This study aimed to investigate the association between serum magnesium levels and clinical outcomes in patients with E.coli sepsis.

METHOD

Data of E.coli septic patients were collected from the MIMIC-IV database. Patients were divided into three groups based on tertiles of serum magnesium levels. Three models were utilized, including the raw model (unadjusted), Model I (adjusted for age and gender), and Model II (adjusted for all potential confounding factors). Linear model and two-segment nonlinear model were established to examine the relationship between serum magnesium and 30-day, 60-day, and 90-day mortality rates. Kaplan-Meier survival curve analysis was performed to assess cumulative hazard of mortalities at 30-day, 60-day, 90-day based on tertiles of serum magnesium levels.

RESULTS

A total of 421 E.coli septic patients were included and classified into tertiles: Q1(< 1.6 mg/dL), Q2 (1.6-1.9 mg/dL), Q3(> 1.9 mg/dL). In the Model adjusting for all potential confounders, for every 1 mg/dL increase in serum magnesium, there was a significant increase in 30-day, 60-day, and 90-day mortality rates, with odds ratios of 4.01 (95% CI 1.22-13.19, P = 0.022), 4.81 (95% CI 1.59-14.53, P = 0.005), and 4.45 (95% CI 1.52-12.96, P = 0.006) respectively. And linear model is more suitable for describing the relationship between serum magnesium levels and clinical outcomes. Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that the cumulative hazard of mortalities at 30-day, 60-day, 90-day increased with the prolongation of hospital stay, particularly in the group with the highest serum magnesium level.

CONCLUSION

Increased level of serum magnesium is significantly associated with increased risk of 30-day, 60-day and 90-day mortality in a population of septic patients with E.coli infection.

Potential Mechanisms for Immunotherapy Resistance in Adult Soft-Tissue Sarcoma

Soft-tissue sarcomas represent a diverse group of rare malignancies originating from mesenchymal tissue, accounting for less than 1% of adult cancers in the USA. With over 13,000 new cases and around 5350 deaths annually, patients with metastatic soft-tissue sarcomas face limited therapeutic options and an estimated median overall survival of 18 months. While immunotherapy has demonstrated effectiveness in several cancers, its application in soft-tissue sarcomas remains challenging owing to the tumors' largely "cold" immunological environment, characterized by low levels of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and a lack of soft-tissue sarcoma-specific biomarkers. This review examines potential mechanisms underlying immunotherapy resistance in soft-tissue sarcomas, including the complex interplay between innate and adaptive immunity, the tumor microenvironment, and the role of immune-related genes. Despite preliminary findings suggesting correlations between immune profiles and histological subtypes, consistent biomarkers for predicting immunotherapeutic responses across soft-tissue sarcoma types are absent. Emerging strategies focus on converting "cold" tumors to "hot" tumors, enhancing their susceptibility to immunologic activation. While research is ongoing, personalized treatment approaches may offer hope for overcoming the inherent heterogeneity and resistance seen in soft-tissue sarcomas, ultimately aiming to improve outcomes for affected patients.

Modeling of cancer stem cells and the tumor microenvironment Via NT2/D1 cells to probe pathology and treatment for cancer and beyond

INTRODUCTION

Unique from the other tumor cells, tumorigenic cancer stem cells (CSCs) manifest as a subpopulation of cells within the tumor that exhibit genetic and phenotypic features and signaling processes, which escape traditional anti-oncogenic treatments, thereby triggering metastases and relapses of cancers. Critical to cancer biology is the crosstalk between CSCs and tumor microenvironment (TME), implicating a CSC-based cancer immunotherapy. Cognizant of CSCs' significant role in cancer pathology and treatment, finding a biological model that recapitulates CSCs and TME may allow a better understanding of tumor onset and progression for testing CSC-based therapies. In this review paper, we examined the CSC and TME characteristics of the human embryonal carcinoma NTERA-2 clonal cell line called NTERA-2 cl.D1 or NT2/D1 cells and discussed their potential utility for research and development of treatments for cancer and central nervous system (CNS) disorders.

METHODS

To probe our hypotheses that NT2/D1 cells display CSC and TME properties key to tumor development, which can serve as a screening platform to test cancer and CNS therapeutics, we conducted a literature review over a 10-year period (2014-2024), focusing on PUBMED and Science Direct published articles on cellular models of cancer, with emphasis on milestone research discoveries on NT2/D1 cells relevant to CSCs and TME. We categorized the studies under pre-clinical and clinical investigations in supporting the existence of CSC and TME features in NT2/D1 cells and providing a laboratory-to-clinic translational basis for cancer and CNS therapeutics.

CONCLUSIONS

NT2/D1 cells stand as a feasible biological model that recapitulates the crosstalk of CSCs and TME, which may critically contribute to our understanding of cancer and CNS biology and therapeutics. Designing therapeutics against CSCs' distinct self-renewal and differentiation capacities within the TME opens new avenues for treating cancers and CNS disorders.

Multiomics Analysis of a Micronutrient-Rich Dietary Pattern and the Aging Genotype 9p21 on the Plasma Proteome of Young Adults

Background: Diet is one of the most significant modifiable lifestyle factors influencing human health, contributing to both morbidity and mortality. Genetic variations in the pleiotropic 9p21 risk locus further shape premature aging, disease susceptibility, and have been strongly linked to cardiovascular disease (CVD), metabolic disorders, certain cancers, and neurodegenerative conditions. However, given that this region was discovered based on Genome-Wide Association Studies, the mechanisms by which 9p21 exerts its effects remain poorly understood and its interactions with diet and biomarkers are insufficiently explored. Methods: This study investigated the association between the rs2383206 SNP in 9p21, dietary patterns, and plasma proteomic biomarkers in a multi-ethnic cohort of 1280 young adults from the Toronto Nutrigenomics and Health Study. Participants' dietary intake was assessed using a validated food frequency questionnaire, and dietary patterns were categorized using principal component analysis. Plasma proteomics analyses quantified 54 abundant proteins involved in the cardiometabolic and inflammatory pathways. Genotyping identified individuals who were homozygous for the 9p21 risk allele (GG), known to confer the highest susceptibility risk to premature aging and multiple chronic diseases. Results: A significant interaction was observed between the 9p21 genotype and adherence to a micronutrient-rich Prudent dietary pattern for eight plasma proteins (α1 Antichymotrypsin, Complement C4 β chain, Complement C4 γ chain, Complement C9, Fibrinogen α chain, Hemopexin, and Serum amyloid P-component). However, only Complement C4-γ showed a pattern consistent with the risks associated with the 9p21 genotype and adherence to a Prudent diet. Individuals with the high-risk GG genotype had significantly higher concentrations of Complement C4-γ, but only among those with a low adherence to a Prudent diet. Conclusions: These findings suggest that Prudent dietary patterns rich in micronutrients may counteract genetic-mediated proinflammatory susceptibility by modulating key proteomic biomarkers in young adults, highlighting the potential for tailored dietary interventions to mitigate disease risk. This study also introduces a novel framework for post hoc micronutrient resolution within dietary pattern analysis, offering a new lens to interpret nutrient synergies in gene-diet interaction research.

Urolithins: Emerging natural compound targeting castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC)

Castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) presents a significant challenge due to its resistance to conventional androgen deprivation therapies. Urolithins, bioactive metabolites derived from ellagitannins, have recently emerged as promising therapeutic agents for CRPC. Urolithins not only inhibit androgen receptor (AR) signaling, a crucial factor in the progression of CRPC, but also play a key role in regulating oxidative stress by their antioxidant properties, thereby inhibiting increased reactive oxygen species, a common feature of the aggressive nature of CRPC. Research has shown that urolithins induce apoptosis and diminish pro-survival signaling, leading to tumor inhibition. This review delves into the intricate mechanisms through which urolithins exert their therapeutic effects, focusing on both AR-dependent and AR-independent pathways. It also explores the exciting potential of combining urolithins with androgen ablation therapy, opening new avenues for CRPC treatment.

Advances in the Drug Development and Quality Evaluation Principles of Oncolytic Herpes Simplex Virus

Oncolytic herpes simplex virus (oHSV) represents a promising therapeutic approach to treating cancers by virtue of its selective replication in and lysis of tumor cells, with stimulation of host antitumor immunity. At present, four OV drugs have been approved for the treatment of cancers worldwide, two of which are oHSV drugs that have received extensive attention, known as T-VEC and Delytact. This review discusses the history, mechanism of action, clinical development, quality control, and evaluation principles of oHSV products, including viral species and genetic modifications that have improved these products' therapeutic potential, limitations, and future directions. Integration of oHSVs with immunotherapeutic agents and conventional therapies has a promising future in the field of treatment of malignant tumors. Although much progress has been achieved, there is still much work to be done regarding the optimization of treatment protocols and the quality control of oncolytic virus drugs. The approval of various oncolytic virus therapies underlines their clinical relevance, safety, and efficacy, thereby paving the way for further research aimed at overcoming the existing limitations and enhancing patient responses.

Proteomic and In Silico Analyses Highlight Complement System's Role in Bladder Cancer Immune Regulation

Background and Objectives: Bladder cancer (BLCA), intimately associated with the immune system, represents a substantial global health burden due to its high recurrence rates and limited therapeutic effectiveness. Although immunotherapy shows promise, challenges persist due to the lack of reliable therapeutic targets. This study aims to investigate potential immune-related biomarkers that could influence the tumor microenvironment in BLCA, using proteomic and in silico approaches. Materials and Methods: Tissue samples from BLCA patients (n = 27) and controls (n = 27) were collected from Şişli Hamidiye Etfal Training and Research Hospital. Proteomic analysis was performed by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC-MS)/MS to reveal the identities of differentially regulated proteins. Protein network analysis and hub protein detection were performed using Cytoscape (v.3.10.3), while functional annotation was carried out using EnrichR. The immunological analysis of hub proteins was performed in Sangerbox platform, and prognostic associations were evaluated through the Kaplan-Meier Plotter tool. Results: LC-MS/MS analysis identified 120 differentially regulated immune-related proteins. STRING analysis, using an immune response dataset (GO:0006955), highlighted the complement cascade as a significantly enriched pathway (p < 0.05). Proteins, namely C4A, CFB, C4B, C8B, CFH, CFI, C5, C4BPA, C3, and C2, that are known to play key roles in the complement system were identified. Immunological analysis with these proteins revealed the phenomena of immune infiltration and immune checkpoint gene associations (p < 0.05). Four hub genes-CFB, C4B, CFI, and C2-demonstrated a significant prognostic value for BLCA (p < 0.05). Conclusions: This study highlights the pivotal role of the complement system in the immune regulation of BLCA. CFI, C4A, and C4B emerged as potential target proteins for BLCA treatment, particularly in immunotherapy, for enhancing survival. Future research on these proteins and the complement system specifically focusing on BLCA may facilitate the development of targeted immunotherapies, ultimately improving treatment outcomes.

Four-gene Prognostic Signature and Risk of Brain Metastasis of Lung Adenocarcinoma

Brain metastasis has a high incidence and poor prognosis in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). We sought to identify genes associated with LUAD brain metastasis and with the prognosis of patients with LUAD. Differential gene expression analysis was performed on LUAD patients with and without distant metastasis from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and LUAD patients with and without brain metastasis from the GEO GSE14108 and GSE10072 data sets. Subsequently, a LASSO model was constructed using the genes differentially expressed in both analyses to screen for prognostic genes. A risk model based on 11 genes was established by screening prognostic genes. Subsequently, a prognostic prediction model was developed based on the risk model. Expression and survival analysis of the identified genes in metastatic LUAD was assessed. As a result, differential gene expression analysis indicated that compared to primary lung cancer, the expression of CMAS, NEK2, and SHCBP1 was significantly upregulated in metastatic lung cancer, whereas the expression of IL2 was significantly downregulated. Additionally, these genes exhibited strong correlations with the overall survival of LUAD patients. Finally, compared with LUAD patients without brain metastasis, immunohistochemistry analysis verified CMAS, NEK2, and SHCBP1 exhibited increased expression in LUAD with brain metastasis.

Transcriptomics and proteomics reveal associations between myometrium and intrauterine adhesions

BACKGROUND

Intrauterine adhesions (IUAs) is a gynecological condition with a poor therapeutic prognosis, that severely threatens the fertility and the reproductive physiology and psychological health of women. Our previous research on the use of umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (HUCMSCs) for treating IUAs revealed that CM-Dil-labelled HUCMSCs were barely distributed in the endometrial epithelium. Instead, these cells were predominantly found in the myometrium, with no statistically significant difference in distribution compared to the endometrial stromal cells. Therefore, we aimed to explore the associations between the myometrium and IUAs.

METHODS

Eight patients with moderate and 5 severe lesional IUAs were included in the experimental group. The control group included 7 patients whose inner and outer myometrium were normal. We used H&E, Masson's trichrome and immunohistochemical staining to obtain the pathological features of the tissues. Transcriptomic and proteomic analyses were conducted to identify differentially expressed genes, proteins and enrichment pathways.

RESULTS

Both IUAs lesion tissues expressed the smooth muscle markers α-SMA and H-caldesmon, and there was no significant difference between severe IUAs tissue and normal myometrium (p > 0.05). Transcriptomic and proteomic data revealed that genes and proteins involved in cell mitosis, such as KIF14, KIF4A, and CIT, were downregulated in both IUAs lesion tissues compared with the inner myometrium (p < 0.05). Additionally, some genes or proteins that participate in activating the complement-coagulation cascade system and extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation also significantly differed (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Transcriptomic and proteomic data revealed a correlation between endometrial injury and the myometrium. These findings preliminarily revealed that the myometrium possibly contributes to the aetiology and progression of IUAs through dual mechanisms. On the one hand, the myometrium inhibits endometrial regeneration by suppressing the cell mitogenic pathway. On the other hand, it promotes fibrosis by activating the complement-coagulation cascade system and inhibiting the ECM degradation pathway. These new findings increase our understanding of the pathogenesis of IUAs and potentially contribute to the application of precision clinical treatment for IUAs.

Potential Relationship Between Helicobacter pylori Infection and Autoimmune Disorders: A Narrative Review

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a spiral-shaped, gram-negative, flagellated bacteria that causes gastritis symptoms. This bacterium, particularly in individuals with a genetic predisposition, has been implicated in the pathogenesis of several autoimmune diseases (AD) through complex mechanisms involving the interaction of cellular and humoral immune responses. This review article tells you about the link between H. pylori infection and several types of AD, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), Sjögren syndrome (SjS), psoriasis, and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). We conducted a comprehensive analysis of the current literature to elucidate the potential role of H. pylori as a triggering factor for these disorders. Our findings suggest a significant correlation between H. pylori infection and the onset or exacerbation of specific ADs. This relationship is common mechanisms, including molecular mimicry, chronic inflammation, epitope spreading, and cytokine dysregulation. While H. pylori is implicated in AD, other factors such as genetic predisposition, environmental triggers, and other microbial agents also play crucial roles. Other pathogens, such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), and bacteria like Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Chlamydia pneumoniae have been linked to ADs. These shared pathways highlight the potential role of H. pylori as a unifying factor in the pathogenesis of diverse ADs. Further research is necessary to fully understand the interactions between H. pylori and the immune system in the context of autoimmunity. This review aims to provide a detailed overview of the knowledge on this topic, highlighting the need for additional studies to clarify these complex relationships.

Siglec-15 antibody-GM-CSF chimera suppresses tumor progression via reprogramming tumor-associated macrophages

BACKGROUND

Sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin-like lectin (Siglec)-15-expressing tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) drive immunosuppression in the tumor microenvironment (TME), promoting CD8+ T cell exhaustion and limiting immunotherapy efficacy. Both blockade of immune checkpoint molecule Siglec-15 and promotion of granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) have been respectively employed in anticancer immunotherapy.

METHODS

Murine CT26 or MC38 cancer cells were used to establish subcutaneous tumor models in BALB/c or C57BL/6 mice. Tumors were treated with anti-Siglec-15 antibody-GM-CSF chimera (anti-S15×GM CSF) or anti-Siglec-15 antibody via intraperitoneal injection. The TME was analyzed by flow cytometry and ELISA for immune cell infiltration and cytokine levels. Biodistribution and half-life of anti-S15×GM CSF were assessed by intravenous injection in tumor-bearing mice, with GM-CSF levels measured by ELISA. Macrophage reprogramming and antigen presentation were evaluated using bone marrow-derived macrophages and human peripheral blood mononuclear cell-derived macrophages treated with anti-S15×GM CSF, followed by flow cytometry and immunofluorescence assays.

RESULTS

Here we report that anti-S15×GM CSF displays superior function to suppress the progression of Siglec-15-overexpressing MC38 colon cancer engrafted in mice compared to anti-Siglec-15 antibody or GM-CSF alone. Different from the injected GM-CSF which is distributed broadly in various organs and tissues of mouse, the injected anti-S15×GM CSF is preferentially accumulated in Siglec-15-positive tumor cells and TAMs. Anti-S15×GM CSF not only extends the half-life of GM-CSF in vivo, but also reduces the off-target effect of GM-CSF through TAM-specific delivery. In addition to Siglec-15 blockade, anti-S15×GM CSF effectively reprograms immunosuppressive TAMs to a proinflammatory phenotype, enhancing antigen presentation by macrophages to activate T cells.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, our results reveal that anti-S15×GM CSF may serve as an effective therapeutic approach for solid tumors.

Comparison of the proteomic landscape in experimental ischemia reperfusion with versus without ischemic preconditioning

Myocardial ischemic preconditioning (IPC) enhances myocardial resilience to ischemic injury. Myocardial stunning is a transient, reversible dysfunction, while necrosis involves irreversible cell death. The relationship between IPC, stunning, and necrosis is not well understood, requiring further molecular investigation. This study aimed to investigate the proteomic changes associated with IPC, focusing on its relationship with myocardial stunning and necrosis. A novel 13.5-minute ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) rat model was specifically chosen to induce myocardial stunning, providing a unique approach to assess IPC effects in this context. Rats underwent either IPC with two 5-minute ischemia/reperfusion cycles followed by a 13.5-minute ischemic period or the procedure without IPC (no ischemic preconditioning, NIPC). Myocardial samples were collected at early (T1) and 4-hour post-reperfusion (T2) time points for proteomic analysis. Protein levels were quantified by differential labeling using TMTpro reagents, and subsequent liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. IPC induced upregulation of proteins involved in endocytosis and Fc gamma R-mediated phagocytosis pathways at T1, while downregulating proteins related to tissue remodeling, immune response, and coagulation at T2. Conversely, NIPC exhibited upregulation of proteins associated with tissue damage and inflammation. IPC rats demonstrated enhanced leukocyte migration, complement activation, and immune response between T1 and T2. Consistent proteomic changes were observed between T1 and T2 in IPC vs. NIPC groups, and common alterations between IPC T2 vs. T1 and NIPC T2 vs. T1 comparisons underline shared pathways in cardiac complement and coagulation cascades. Our study reveals distinct proteomic changes induced by IPC in the context of myocardial stunning and necrosis. IPC activates early protective pathways, attenuates tissue damage and inflammation, and preserves myocardial function. These findings underscore IPC's reparative potential and identify myocardial stunning as an important, transient adaptation, which may have implications for supportive clinical management in I/R.

Understanding the interplay between oHSV and the host immune system: Implications for therapeutic oncolytic virus development

Oncolytic herpes simplex viruses (oHSV) preferentially replicate in cancer cells while inducing antitumor immunity, and thus, they are often referred to as in situ cancer vaccines. OHSV infection of tumors elicits diverse host immune responses comprising both innate and adaptive components. Although the innate and adaptive immune responses primarily target the tumor, they also contribute to antiviral immunity, limiting viral replication/oncolysis. OHSV-encoded proteins use various mechanisms to evade host antiviral pathways and immune recognition, favoring oHSV replication, oncolysis, and spread. In general, oHSV infection and replication within tumors results in a series of sequential events, such as oncolysis and release of tumor and viral antigens, dendritic cell-mediated antigen presentation, T cell priming and activation, T cell trafficking and infiltration to tumors, and T cell recognition of cancer cells, leading to tumor (and viral) clearance. These sequential events align with all steps of the cancer-immunity cycle. However, a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between oHSV and host immune responses is crucial to optimize oHSV-induced antitumor immunity and efficacy. Therefore, this review aims to elucidate oHSV's communication with innate and adaptive immune systems and use such interactions to improve oHSV's potential as a potent immunovirotherapeutic agent against cancer.

Emerging role of deubiquitinases in modulating cancer chemoresistance

Chemotherapy remains a gold standard in cancer treatment by targeting the rapidly dividing cancer cells. However, chemoresistance is a major obstacle to successful cancer treatment, often leading to recurrence, metastasis, and high mortality. Deubiquitinases (DUBs), enzymes that remove ubiquitin and stabilize proteins, have been implicated in chemoresistance and can either promote therapeutic resistance or enhance sensitivity depending on their targets. In this review, we highlight the chemoresistance mechanisms of DUBs in various cancers, including breast, lung, liver, gastrointestinal, colorectal, ovarian, prostate, and blood cancers. Given these mechanisms, the development of DUB inhibitors has gained considerable attention in cancer therapeutics and combination therapies involving these inhibitors show potential to overcome drug resistance and improving treatment outcomes.

DNA Methyltransferases 1-Regulated Methylation of Protein Kinase C Zeta Influences Its Expression in Breast Cancer Cells

PURPOSE

Breast cancer (BC) is a predominant malignancy globally, surpassing lung cancer in terms of diagnostic frequency, with an escalating incidence rate in recent decades. Recent studies have investigated the role of protein kinase C zeta (PRKCZ) in diverse cellular processes in cancer biology. In this study, we evaluated the association between PRKCZ and deleterious outcomes in BC and elucidated the mechanisms underlying its expression in breast carcinoma.

METHODS

The correlation between PRKCZ and survival rates of patients with BC was investigated using The Cancer Genome Atlas database. The methylation status of the PRKCZ promoter was analyzed using the UALCAN database. Furthermore, we investigated the mechanisms underlying PRKCZ inactivation in BC by treatment with transferase inhibitors, methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis, western blotting, and luciferase reporter gene assays. The degree of methylation and expression levels of PRKCZ, as regulated by DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1), were quantified using quantitative PCR and western blotting.

RESULTS

Our analysis revealed that decreased expression of PRKCZ in BC was significantly correlated with poor clinical prognosis. Furthermore, we observed that hypermethylation of the PRKCZ promoter contributed to its reduced expression in BC. Notably, DNMT1 has been identified as a critical regulator of PRKCZ methylation.

CONCLUSION

Our findings elucidate the tumor-suppressive function of PRKCZ and provide insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying its downregulation in BC.

Endothelial Cell Calcium Influx Mediates Trauma-induced Endothelial Permeability

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether ex vivo plasma from injured patients causes endothelial calcium (Ca 2+ ) influx as a mechanism of trauma-induced endothelial permeability.

BACKGROUND

Endothelial permeability after trauma contributes to postinjury organ dysfunction. While the mechanisms remain unclear, emerging evidence suggests intracellular Ca 2+ signaling may play a role.

METHODS

Ex vivo plasma from injured patients with "low injury/low shock" (injury severity score <15, base excess ≥-6 mEq/L) and "high injury/high shock" (injury severity score ≥15, base excess <-6 mEq/L) were used to treat endothelial cells. Experimental conditions included Ca 2+ removal from the extracellular buffer, cyclopiazonic acid pretreatment to deplete intracellular Ca 2+ stores, and GSK2193874 pretreatment to block the transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) Ca 2+ channel. Live cell fluorescence microscopy and electrical cell-substrate impedance sensing were used to assess cytosolic Ca 2+ increases and permeability, respectively. Western blot and live cell actin staining were used to assess myosin light chain phosphorylation and actomyosin contraction.

RESULTS

Compared with low injury/low shock plasma, high injury/high shock induced greater cytosolic Ca 2+ increase. Cytosolic Ca 2+ increase, myosin light chain phosphorylation, and actin cytoskeletal contraction were lower without extracellular Ca 2+ present. High injury/high shock plasma did not induce endothelial permeability without extracellular Ca 2+ present. TRPV4 inhibition lowered trauma plasma-induced endothelial Ca 2+ influx and permeability.

CONCLUSIONS

This study illuminates a novel mechanism of postinjury endotheliopathy involving Ca 2+ influx through the TRPV4 channel. TRPV4 inhibition mitigates trauma-induced endothelial permeability. Moreover, widespread endothelial Ca 2+ influx may contribute to trauma-induced hypocalcemia. This study provides the mechanistic basis for the development of Ca 2+ -targeted therapies and interventions in the care of severely injured patients.

HPLC-HRMS/MS and anti-inflammatory effects of bunya pine resin through multifaceted pathway modulation: NUMB/NOTCH1/HES1/mTOR/ PI3K/HMGB1 signaling cascades

The oleoresins of the Araucaria bidwillii Hook. (A.B.) are commonly used for the treatment of several conditions. However, the full phytochemical profile of its active compounds and its mechanism of action to protect the liver from toxicity remain unclear. The purpose of this research was to investigate the complete set of data relating to the A.B. active metabolites and explore the hepatoprotective properties of AB ethanolic extract on MTX-induced liver injury mainly due to its anti-inflammatory role. Hepatic markers, oxidative stress, inflammatory mediators, the NOTCH/NICD signaling cascade, HES1 expression, HMGB1/TLR4, and the PI3K/mTOR axis were assessed. HPLC-HRMS/MS analysis of A.B. led to the annotation of fifteen compounds from different classes, where diterpenes are the dominant class. Additionally, A.B. (100 and 200 mg/kg) significantly decreased hepatic markers, oxidative stress, and inflammatory mediators. Moreover, the extract significantly increased NOTCH pathway stimulation and HES1 expression, accompanied by a significant decline in the NUMB and HMGB1/TLR4 axes. In addition, it significantly inhibited the PI3K/mTOR pathway, with a prominent effect at the higher dose. This study presents A.B. as a promising hepatoprotective agent through stimulation of the NOTCH pathway and inhibition of the HMGB1/TLR4 pathway, as well as the PI3K/mTOR/NF-κB axis, besides its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Research progress of DNA methylation on the regulation of substance use disorders and the mechanisms

Drug abuse can damage the central nervous system and lead to substance use disorder (SUD). SUD is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Genes determine an individual's susceptibility to drug, while the dysregulation of epigenome drives the abnormal transcription processes, promoting the development of SUD. One of the most widely studied epigenetic mechanisms is DNA methylation, which can be inherited stably. In ontogeny, DNA methylation pattern is dynamic. DNA dysmethylation is prevalent in drug-related psychiatric disorders, resulting in local hypermethylation and transcriptional silencing of related genes. In this review, we summarize the role and regulatory mechanisms of DNA methylation in cocaine, opioids, and methamphetamine in terms of drug exposure, addiction memory, withdrawal relapse, intergenerational inheritance, and focus on cell-specific aspects of the studies with a view to suggesting possible therapeutic regimens for targeting methylation in both human and animal research.

Relationship between coagulopathy score and survival in critically ill patients with liver cirrhosis and sepsis: a retrospective study

BACKGROUND

This research focused on exploring the association between coagulopathy scores and the survival outcomes, both short-term and long-term, in individuals diagnosed with liver cirrhosis complicated by sepsis.

METHODS

This study retrospectively analyzed data from individuals with liver cirrhosis and sepsis who were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center between 2008 and 2022. The main outcome of interest was all-cause mortality within 28 days post-admission, while the secondary outcome assessed mortality within 90 days. We used the Kaplan-Meier analysis to compare the mortality risk among the different groups. To evaluate the relationship between coagulopathy score and mortality risk in patients with liver cirrhosis and sepsis, a multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was performed. The predictive performance of the coagulopathy score for short- and long-term all-cause mortality was assessed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, which included evaluation of its sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve. Subgroup analyses were performed to evaluate the relationship between coagulopathy score and survival across different groups.

RESULTS

The study included a total of 2,278 patients. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis demonstrated that individuals with elevated coagulopathy scores exhibited markedly higher rates of ICU mortality, in-hospital mortality, as well as 28-day and 90-day mortality, with all log-rank tests yielding P-values of less than 0.001. The results of the multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that an elevated coagulopathy score was independently linked to higher 28-day and 90-day all-cause mortality, both before and after controlling for potential confounders. ROC curve analysis showed that although the coagulopathy score was slightly less predictive of prognosis than the Model for End-stage Liver Disease score, it significantly outperformed the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score and the Sepsis-induced Coagulopathy score. Subgroup analysis revealed no significant interaction between the coagulopathy score and survival across the different subgroups.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher coagulopathy scores in critically ill patients with liver cirrhosis and sepsis were independently associated with poor prognosis. Due to its simplicity and potential predictive value, the coagulopathy score can serve as an effective complement to existing clinical tools for managing critically ill patients with liver cirrhosis and sepsis.

Alterations in Gene Expression and Alternative Splicing Induced by Plasmid-Mediated Overexpression of GFP and P2RY12 Within the A549 Cell Line

Phenotypic modifications and their effects on cellular functions through the up-regulation of target gene expression have frequently been observed in genetic studies, but the unique roles of cell lines and their introduced plasmids in influencing these functions have not been fully revealed. In this research, we developed two distinct cell lines derived from the A549 cell line: one that stably overexpresses GFP and another that is a polyclonal stable line overexpressing both GFP and P2RY12. We then utilized transcriptome sequencing (RNA-seq) technology to screen out differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and genes with differential transcript usage (gDTUs) after GFP overexpression (GFP-OE) and P2RY12 overexpression (P2RY12-OE). We found that, compared with A549, there were more than 1700 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in both GFP-OE and P2RY12-OE cells, while only 866 DEGs were identified in GFP-OE and P2RY12-OE cells. Notably, the differences in transcript usage were relatively minor, with only over 400 genes exhibiting changes across all three groups. The functional analysis of DEGs and gDTUs showed that they were both highly enriched in the pathways associated with cell proliferation and migration. In summary, we performed an extensive analysis of the transcriptome profile of gene expression and alternative splicing with GFP-OE and P2RY12-OE, enhancing our comprehension of how genes function within cells and the processes that control gene expression.

Action of the Terminal Complement Pathway on Cell Membranes

The complement pathway is one of the most ancient elements of the host's innate response and includes a set of protein effectors that rapidly react against pathogens. The late stages of the complement reaction are broadly categorised into two major outcomes. Firstly, C5a receptors, expressed on membranes of host cells, are activated by C5a to generate pro-inflammatory responses. Secondly, target cells are lysed by a hetero-oligomeric pore known as the membrane attack complex (MAC) that punctures the cellular membrane, causing ion and osmotic flux. Generally, several membrane-bound and soluble inhibitors protect the host membrane from complement damage. This includes inhibitors against the MAC, such as clusterin and CD59. This review addresses the most recent molecular and structural insights behind the activation and modulation of the integral membrane proteins, the C5a receptors (C5aR1 and C5aR2), as well as the regulation of MAC assembly. The second aspect of the review focuses on the molecular basis behind inflammatory diseases that are reflective of failure to regulate the terminal complement effectors. Although each arm is unique in its function, both pathways may share similar outcomes in these diseases. As such, the review outlines potential synergy and crosstalk between C5a receptor activation and MAC-mediated cellular responses.

Unveiling the future of cancer stem cell therapy: a narrative exploration of emerging innovations

Cancer stem cells (CSCs), are a critical subpopulation within tumours, and are defined by their capacity for self-renewal, differentiation, and tumour initiation. These unique traits contribute to tumour progression, metastasis, and resistance to conventional treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy, often resulting in cancer recurrence and poor patient outcomes. As such, CSCs have become focal points in developing advanced cancer therapies. This review highlights progress in CSC-targeted treatments, including chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy, immunotherapy, molecular targeting, and nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems. Plant-derived compounds and gene-editing technologies, such as clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR), are explored for their potential to enhance precision and minimize side effects. Metabolic pathways integral to CSC survival, such as mitochondrial dynamics, mitophagy (regulated by dynamin-related protein 1 [DRP1] and the PINK1/Parkin pathway), one-carbon metabolism, amino acid metabolism (involving enzymes like glutaminase (GLS) and glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH]), lipid metabolism, and hypoxia-induced metabolic reprogramming mediated by hypoxia-inducible factors (HIF-1α and HIF-2α), are examined as therapeutic targets. The adaptability of CSCs through autophagy, metabolic flexibility, and epigenetic regulation by metabolites like α-ketoglutarate, succinate, and fumarate is discussed. Additionally, extracellular vesicles and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD⁺) metabolism are identified as pivotal in redox balance, DNA repair, and epigenetic modifications. Addressing challenges such as tumour heterogeneity, immune evasion, and treatment durability requires interdisciplinary collaboration. Advancing CSC-targeted therapies is essential for overcoming drug resistance and preventing cancer relapse, paving the way for transformative cancer treatments. This review underscores the importance of leveraging innovative technologies and fostering collaboration to revolutionize cancer treatment.

Comorbidities in Canadian patients with hereditary angioedema: a quantitative survey study

BACKGROUND

Evidence linking hereditary angioedema (HAE) to the potential association of developing other comorbidities, and how it is affected by HAE treatment is needed. The objective of this study is to identify comorbidities and measure the prevalence in HAE patients, compared to the prevalence in the general population using multiple Canadian sources when available.

METHODS

A quantitative survey design via a self-administered anonymous online questionnaire was conducted from October 13, 2022, to January 11, 2023. Respondents were individuals with HAE, enrolled in the CSL Behring patient support program (CSL Behring PLUS+; PSP).

RESULTS

This study included 123 patients (81% female; 60% HAE-1/HAE-2, 24% HAE Normal C1-INH (nC1-INH), 16% unsure of HAE type; 85% of patients were on long-term prophylaxis plus on-demand). Patients reported using the following HAE treatments: C1-esterase inhibitor (subcutaneous or intravenous), lanadelumab, icatibant, danazol, and tranexamic acid. Respondents (69%) reported at least one: autoimmune condition, asthma, or allergy. Reported autoimmune conditions (psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, chronic urticaria, lupus, and psoriatic arthritis) were much higher than the general population (31% versus 5-8%). Patient-reported allergies were two times higher than the general population (54% versus 27%; i.e., aeroallergens) and asthma rates nearly two times higher than the general population (17% versus 8-11%).

CONCLUSION

This cohort of HAE patients, most of whom were on prophylaxis, reported an increased prevalence of certain comorbidities compared to the general Canadian population. Healthcare professionals should be aware of the potentially increased risk of autoimmune conditions, allergies, and asthma in patients with HAE.

Unravelling the role of PRKCI and key-cancer related genes in breast cancer development and metastasis

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer is one of the most common causes of fatalities in females globally. Rising cases of drug resistance against existing chemotherapeutics are great problem. To address this issue, there is a need to find appropriate biomarker that could be used to detect cancer at early stages, so drug resistance development can be avoided. Protein Kinase C iota (PKCɩ), an AGC kinase, has an oncogenic role in cancers and its expression and Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been reported to be associated with the cancer development. So, the study aims were to examine the expression of PKCɩ, Protein Kinase B (AKT), Suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3), Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), Krupple like factor 3 (KLF3), Tumor protein D52 (TPD52), Hypoxia inducible factor (HIF1α) and microRNA-124 (miR-124) in breast cancer and association of PKCɩ variants (G34W & F66Y) with breast cancer.

METHODS

Genetic expression assay was performed through real time Polymerase Chain reaction (PCR), whereas the genotypic association of PKCɩ SNPs with breast cancer was accomplished through Tetra-ARMS PCR.

RESULTS

The expression levels of PKCɩ, AKT, SOC3, VEGF, HIF1α and TPD52 were elevated in patients as compared to control whereas the expression levels of miR-124 and KLF3 were lowered in patients. Positive association of variant G34W (TT) of PKCɩ with breast cancer has been explored through ARM's PCR, while no association of variant F66Y with breast cancer was found.

CONCLUSION

Hence, the results suggest that PKCɩ and related genes can have a role in breast cancer and after further verification can serve as the potential biomarkers for the early-diagnosis and prognosis of breast cancer.

Amyloid-β Dysregulates Oligodendroglial Lineage Cell Dynamics and Myelination via PKC in the Zebrafish Spinal Cord

Soluble forms of amyloid-β (Aβ) peptide have been proposed as candidates to induce oligodendrocyte (OL) and myelin dysfunctions in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology. Nevertheless, little is known about how Aβ affects OL differentiation and myelination in vivo, and the underlying molecular mechanisms. In this study, we explored the effects of a brain intraventricular injection of Aβ on OLs and myelin in the developing spinal cord of zebrafish larvae. Using quantitative fluorescent in situ RNA hybridization assays, we demonstrated that Aβ altered myrf and mbp mRNA levels and the regional distribution of mbp during larval development, suggesting an early differentiation of OLs. Through live imaging of Tg(myrf:mScarlet) and Tg(mbpa:tagRFP) zebrafish lines, both crossed with Tg(olig2:EGFP), we found that Aβ increased the number of myrf+ and mbp+ OLs in the dorsal spinal cord at 72 hpf and 5 dpf, respectively, without affecting total cell numbers. Furthermore, Aβ also increased the number of Sox10+cells, myelin sheaths per OL, and the number of myelinated axons in the dorsal spinal cord at 8 dpf compared to vehicle-injected control animals. Interestingly, the treatment of Aβ-injected zebrafish with the pan-PKC inhibitor Gö6983 restored the aforementioned alterations in OLs and myelin to control levels. Altogether, not only do we demonstrate that Aβ induces a precocious oligodendroglial differentiation leading to dysregulated myelination, but we also identified PKC as a key player in Aβ-induced pathology.

HER2-positive gastric cancer: from targeted therapy to CAR-T cell therapy

Gastric cancer (GC) ranks as the fifth most prevalent cancer on a global scale, with HER2-positive GC representing a distinct subtype that exhibits more intricate biological characteristics. Conventional chemotherapy typically exhibits restricted efficacy in the management of HER2-positive GC. In light of the incessant advancement in molecular targeted therapies, targeting HER2 has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach for this subtype. The advent of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy (CAR-T) has furnished novel treatment alternatives for HER2-positive GC. Nevertheless, owing to the pronounced heterogeneity of GC and the complex tumor microenvironment, drug resistance frequently emerges, thereby substantially influencing the effectiveness of HER2-targeted therapy. This article comprehensively summarizes and deliberates upon the strategies of HER2-targeted therapy as well as the underlying resistance mechanisms.

Unlocking the therapeutic potential of unexplored phytocompounds as hepatoprotective agents through integration of network pharmacology and in-silico analysis

Liver diseases account for over two million deaths annually, amounting to 4% of mortality worldwide, underscoring the need for development of novel preventive and therapeutic strategies. The growing interest in natural hepatoprotective agents highlights the potential of traditional medicine for modern drug discovery, though unlocking their molecular complexity requires advanced tools. This study integrates cutting-edge computational techniques with traditional herbal knowledge to identify potential hepatoprotective compounds. Protein targets implicated in liver disorders were identified through network pharmacology and by leveraging the rich molecular diversity inherent in herbal compounds, phytocompounds were selected. The Gene Ontology, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genome data were compiled and enrichment analysis was performed using the DAVID database. Molecular docking of selected phytocompounds with top five protein targets helped identify 14 compounds which were employed for building the pharmacophore model. In virtual screening, among 1089 compounds screened, 10 compounds were identified as potential hits based on their predicted scores and alignment with pharmacophore features. The interactions of resulting hits were then analyzed through redocking studies and validated through molecular dynamics simulation and ADMET studies. Notably, (2S,5E)-2-(3,4-Dihydroxybenzyl)-6-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-4-oxo-5-hexenoic acid and 5'-hydroxymorin emerged as lead compounds for further investigation. Both compounds exhibited significant binding affinities with specific amino acids in selected targets, suggesting their potential to modulate key pathways involved in hepatic disorders. Our findings demonstrate the utility of this integrated approach which transits beyond traditional trial-and-error methods. This approach will accelerate the discovery of novel hepatoprotective compounds, providing deeper insights into their mechanistic pathways and action.

Association of C4d with disease activity in anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis: evidence for classical/lectin complement pathway activation

BACKGROUND

We aimed to investigate the involvement of the classical/lectin complement pathway in anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV) by exploring the complement activation fragment C4d in association to AAV activity.

METHODS

Forty patients with active AAV and twenty population-based controls were included. The study included 27 (67.5%) patients with a diagnosis of GPA and 13 (32.5%) with MPA. Twenty-four patients (60%) were anti-proteinase 3 (PR3)-ANCA positive and 16 (40%) anti-myeloperoxidase (MPO)-ANCA positive. Thirty-three (82.5%) patients had kidney involvement. A follow-up sample obtained after induction therapy (median 6 months) was available for 24 of the patients, of whom 20 were in remission. Plasma C4d was analysed by ELISA detecting an epitope that arises upon complement-mediated cleavage. Plasma complement factor 4 (C4) and the soluble terminal complement complex (sTCC) were analysed by ELISA. The C4d/C4 ratio was calculated. HLA-DRB1-typing and immunohistochemistry for C4d in kidney biopsies were performed.

RESULTS

Patients with active AAV had higher C4d, sTCC levels and C4d/C4 ratio than controls (p < 0.001, p = 0.004, p < 0.001). C4d, sTCC levels and C4d/C4 ratio all decreased from active disease to remission (p = 0.010, p = 0.009, p = 0.011). C4d levels in AAV patients in remission remained higher than population-based controls (p = 0.026). Active anti-PR3-ANCA patients had higher C4d levels and C4d/C4 ratio than anti-MPO-ANCA patients (p = 0.001, p = 0.007). Patients with active AAV and kidney involvement had lower C4d levels than patients without (p = 0.04). C4d levels and C4d/C4 ratio correlated positively with the percentage of normal glomeruli in kidney biopsies. The immunohistochemistry was negative for C4d in kidney biopsies.

CONCLUSIONS

The specific C4d assay revealed activity in the classical/lectin complement pathway in AAV, which reflected general disease activity, but was not associated specifically with kidney involvement. C4d levels differed depending on anti-PR3/MPO-ANCA subtypes suggesting differences in complement activation and underlying pathogenetic mechanisms. The findings imply that the classical/lectin complement pathway may play a more significant role in AAV pathogenesis than previously reported and that plasma C4d levels and C4d/C4 ratio may be biomarker candidates for disease activity and treatment outcome monitoring.

Exosomal-complement system activation in preeclampsia

AIM

Preeclampsia (PE) is a severe pregnancy-related disorder characterized by hypertension and multi-organ failure, primarily affecting the maternal vasculature and placenta. The aim of this review is to explain the molecular mechanisms behind PE by investigating the relationship between exosome release and complement activation, which could provide insight into potential therapeutic targets.

METHODS

This review analyzes existing literature on the role of the complement system and exosomes in the pathophysiology of PE. The focus is on how abnormal complement activation contributes to inflammation and vascular dysfunction, particularly in the placenta, and the role of trophoblast-derived exosomes carrying pathogenic molecules such as soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) and soluble endoglin (sEng).

RESULTS

Findings from recent studies indicate that during PE, abnormal complement activation leads to severe inflammation and vascular dysfunction in the placenta. Additionally, exosomes, particularly those derived from trophoblasts, are present in higher concentrations in maternal circulation during PE and carry molecules that disrupt endothelial function. These factors contribute to the development of hypertension and other maternal complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Understanding the interaction between complement activation and exosome release in PE may open avenues for novel therapeutic approaches. Targeting complement regulation and exosome-mediated signaling could potentially improve maternal and fetal outcomes, offering new strategies for managing this complex condition.

Cancer stem cells: Masters of all traits

Cancer is a heterogeneous disease, which contributes to its rapid progression and therapeutic failure. Besides interpatient tumor heterogeneity, tumors within a single patient can present with a heterogeneous mix of genetically and phenotypically distinct subclones. These unique subclones can significantly impact the traits of cancer. With the plasticity that intratumoral heterogeneity provides, cancers can easily adapt to changes in their microenvironment and therapeutic exposure. Indeed, tumor cells dynamically shift between a more differentiated, rapidly proliferating state with limited tumorigenic potential and a cancer stem cell (CSC)-like state that resembles undifferentiated cellular precursors and is associated with high tumorigenicity. In this context, CSCs are functionally located at the apex of the tumor hierarchy, contributing to the initiation, maintenance, and progression of tumors, as they also represent the subpopulation of tumor cells most resistant to conventional anti-cancer therapies. Although the CSC model is well established, it is constantly evolving and being reshaped by advancing knowledge on the roles of CSCs in different cancer types. Here, we review the current evidence of how CSCs play a pivotal role in providing the many traits of aggressive tumors while simultaneously evading immunosurveillance and anti-cancer therapy in several cancer types. We discuss the key traits and characteristics of CSCs to provide updated insights into CSC biology and highlight its implications for therapeutic development and improved treatment of aggressive cancers.

The Significance of MAPK Signaling Pathway in the Diagnosis and Subtype Classification of Intervertebral Disc Degeneration

Background

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is a human aging disease related mainly to inflammation, cellular senescence, RNA/DNA methylation, and ECM. The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway is engaged in multiple biological functions by phosphorylating specific serine and threonine residues on target proteins through phosphorylation cascade effects, but the role and specific mechanisms of the MAPK signaling pathway in IDD are still unclear.

Methods

We identified 20 MAPK-related differential genes by differential analysis of the GSE124272 and GSE150408 datasets from the GEO database. To explore the biological functions of these differential genes in humans, we performed GO and KEGG analyses. Additionally, we applied PPI networks, LASSO analysis, the RF algorithm, and the SVM-RFE algorithm to identify core MAPK-related genes. Finally, we conducted further validation using clinical samples.

Results

We ultimately identified and validated four pivotal MAPK-related genes, namely, KRAS, JUN, RAP1B, and TNF, using clinical samples, and constructed the ROC curves to evaluate the predictive accuracy of the hub genes. A nomogram model was subsequently developed based on these four hub MAPK genes to predict the prevalence of IDD. Based on these four hub genes, we classified IDD patients into two MAP clusters by applying the consensus clustering method and identified 1916 DEGs by analyzing the differences between the two clusters. Further analysis using the same approach allowed us to identify two gene clusters based on these DEGs. We used a PCA algorithm to determine the MAPK score for each sample and discovered that MAPK cluster A and gene cluster A had higher scores, suggesting greater sensitivity to MAPK signaling pathway-associated agents in the subtype. We displayed the differing expression levels of four hub MAPK-related genes across the two clusters and their relationship with immune cell infiltration to highlight the distinctions between clusters A and B.

Conclusion

In summary, four hub MAPK signaling pathway-related genes, KRAS, JUN, RAP1B, and TNF, could be applied to the diagnosis and subtype classification of IDD and benefit the prevention and treatment of IDD.

Microenvironmental Drivers of Glioma Progression

Gliomas, particularly glioblastoma (GBM), are among the most challenging brain tumors due to their complex and dynamic tumor microenvironment (TME). The TME plays a pivotal role in tumor progression, immune evasion, and resistance to therapy through intricate interactions among glioma cells, immune components, neurons, astrocytes, the extracellular matrix, and the blood-brain barrier. Targeting the TME has demonstrated potential, with immunotherapies such as checkpoint inhibitors and neoadjuvant therapies enhancing immune responses. Nonetheless, overcoming the immunosuppressive landscape and metabolic adaptations continues to pose significant challenges. This review explores the diverse cellular and molecular mechanisms that shape the glioma TME. A deeper understanding of these mechanisms holds promise for providing novel therapeutic opportunities to improve glioma treatment outcomes.

The relationship between body mass index and survival in patients with renal cell carcinoma treated with nivolumab

INTRODUCTION

Immunotherapies have increased the therapeutic options for patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC), but the absence of prognostic indicators remains unresolved. We assessed the potential association of BMI with the overall survival (OS) of patients treated with nivolumab.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective study of 126 patients with histologically confirmed mRCC who began systemic ICI therapy between January 2016 and April 2022 were included. BMI at the time of treatment start was calculated. Then patients were divided into two groups: high BMI (≥25) and low BMI (<25). Therapeutic responses were determined according to RECIST v1.1. OS was defined as the time from starting ICI treatment until death or last follow-up at the data cutoff.

RESULTS

The cohort was male 74.6%, with a median age of 62. The median follow-up time was 18.6 months. The patients were classified as low BMI (<25) and high BMI (≥25). The OS was 40.6 months (95% CI: 34.2-47.0) for patients with high BMI vs. 9.4 months (95% CI: 7.0-11.7) for patients with low BMI, and a significant association was found between BMI and OS (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

BMI was an independent prognostic factor in the patients with mRCC treated with nivolumab. Prospective and multicenter research is needed to confirm our findings.

Two-directional trafficking of the IFT25 protein in the developing mouse sperm flagella

Intraflagellar transport 25 is a component of the intraflagellar transport 25-B complex. In mice, even though this intraflagellar transport component is not required for cilia formation in somatic cells, it is essential for sperm formation. However, the intracellular localization of this protein in male germ cells is not known given no reliable antibodies are available for histologic studies, and the dynamic trafficking in the developing sperm flagella is not clear. To examine localization of the protein in male germ cells and further investigate the mechanism of intraflagellar transport in sperm formation, particularly to look into the dynamic trafficking of the protein, we generated a mouse intraflagellar transport 25-green fluorescent protein knock-in mouse model using the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats associated protein 9 system, with the mouse intraflagellar transport 25 protein fused with a green fluorescent protein tag in the C-terminus. Three independent lines were analyzed. Western blotting using both anti-intraflagellar transport 25 and anti-green fluorescent protein antibodies showed that the intraflagellar transport 25-green fluorescent protein fusion protein was highly abundant only in the testis, which is consistent with the endogenous intraflagellar transport 25 protein. Examination of localization of the intraflagellar transport 25-green fluorescent protein in isolated germ cells revealed that the fusion protein was present in the cytoplasm of spermatocytes and round spermatids and a strong signal was present in the developing sperm flagellar. The homozygous knock-in mice had normal spermatogenesis, fertility and sperm parameters. Diffusion analysis of intraflagellar transport 25 within the developing flagellar revealed the presence of both mobile and immobile fractions as revealed by fluorescence recovery after photobleaching. Kymograph and fluorescence recovery after photobleaching analyses demonstrate the transport of intraflagellar transport 25-green fluorescent protein within the developing tail demonstrate no apparent preference for trafficking toward and away from the cell body. The speed of trafficking depends on the stage of sperm development, ranging from highly mobile unrestricted diffusion initially, mobile punctate structures in developing sperm, and immobile punctate structures in mature sperm. Our studies demonstrate that mouse intraflagellar transport 25 travels along the developing sperm flagella in two directions that might be essential for functional sperm formation.

Impact of G1 phase kinetics on the acquisition of stemness in cancer cells: the critical role of cyclin D

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) represent a unique subpopulation of cells with the ability to self-renew and differentiate, thereby sustaining tumor growth and contributing to disease recurrence. Although CSCs predominantly reside in the G0 phase, their stem-like properties, such as the expression of specific CD markers, self-renewal, differentiation potential, tumor initiation, drug resistance, and increased invasive and metastatic potential, manifest during their active proliferative phase. Rapidly dividing cells exhibit alterations in their cell cycle, often characterized by shortened or bypassed G1 phases, a phenomenon observed in both embryonic stem cells and cancerous cells. Dysregulation of cell cycle control is a hallmark of cancer, leading to uncontrolled cellular proliferation and tumorigenesis. Disruption in key regulatory proteins, signaling pathways, and cell cycle checkpoints-particularly during the G1 phase-enables cancer cells to escape normal proliferation restrictions. The rapid cell-cycle progression can impair the timely degradation of proteins critical for cell cycle regulation, particularly cyclin D, thereby compromising proper cell cycle control. Therefore these proteins may be passed to daughter cells, promoting further rounds of rapid cycles. Additionally, cyclin D is often overexpressed in cancer cells, further exacerbating uncontrolled proliferation. These mechanisms may underpin key properties of CSCs, including rapid proliferation and their stem-like traits. This review examines the relationship between G1 phase kinetics and the acquisition of stem-like characteristics, emphasizing how rapid G1 phase progression and transitions between dormancy and active proliferation contribute to the emergence of CSC traits.

Tumor dormancy and relapse: understanding the molecular mechanisms of cancer recurrence

Cancer recurrence, driven by the phenomenon of tumor dormancy, presents a formidable challenge in oncology. Dormant cancer cells have the ability to evade detection and treatment, leading to relapse. This review emphasizes the urgent need to comprehend tumor dormancy and its implications for cancer recurrence. Despite notable advancements, significant gaps remain in our understanding of the mechanisms underlying dormancy and the lack of reliable biomarkers for predicting relapse. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the cellular, angiogenic, and immunological aspects of dormancy. It highlights the current therapeutic strategies targeting dormant cells, particularly combination therapies and immunotherapies, which hold promise in preventing relapse. By elucidating these mechanisms and proposing innovative research methodologies, this review aims to deepen our understanding of tumor dormancy, ultimately facilitating the development of more effective strategies for preventing cancer recurrence and improving patient outcomes.

CALML3-AS1 enhances malignancies and stemness of small cell lung cancer cells through interacting with DAXX protein and promoting GLUT4-mediated aerobic glycolysis

The lncRNA CALML3 antisense RNA 1 (CALML3-AS1) is a biomarker for various cancers, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, the role of CALM3-AS1 in small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is still unclear. Here, we found that the CALML3-AS1 was upregulated in SCLC tissues and cells. SCLC cells (NCI-H69 and NCI-H466 cells) were transfected with small interfering RNA of CALML-AS1 (si-CALML3-AS1) and Death domain-associated protein (DAXX) (si-DAXX) or an overexpression vector of CALML-AS1 (dCas9-CALML3-AS1) and DAXX (dCas9-DAXX). The results showed that silencing CALML3-AS1 inhibited SCLC cell proliferation, colony formation, migration, invasion, and spheroid formation, and reduced the expression of stemness marker proteins (Nanog. Oct4, and Lin28). Moreover, silencing CALML3-AS1 reduced glycolysis rate, glucose utilization, and lactate production, and decreased the levels of key glycolytic regulatory proteins (GLUT1, GLUT4, HK2, and PKM2) in SCLC cells, while overexpression of CALML3-AS1 promoted malignant growth and stemness and enhanced glucose transporters type 4 (GLUT4)-mediated aerobic glycolysis by interacting with DAXX in NCI-H69 and NCI-H466 cells. Silencing DAXX or GLUT4, or treatment with 2-Deoxy-d-glucose (2-DG, a glycolysis inhibitor) reversed the effects of CALML3-AS1 overexpression on aerobic glycolysis, malignant growth, and stemness of SCLC cells. Finally, NCI-H69 cells transfected with CALML3-AS1, sh-CALML3-AS1, and sh-DAXX lentiviral vectors were subcutaneously injected into nude mice to construct xenograft models. Knockdown of CALML3-AS1 or DAXX inhibited tumor growth in SCLC in vivo. In conclusion, CALML3-AS1, an oncogene, promotes the malignancy and stemness of SCLC cells by interacting with DAXX to enhance GLUT4-mediated aerobic glycolysis, thereby promoting SCLC progression.

Complement anaphylatoxins: Potential therapeutic target for diabetic kidney disease

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is the most common cause of kidney failure, characterized by chronic inflammation and fibrosis. The complement system is increasingly implicated in the development and progression of diabetic nephropathy. The important complement anaphylatoxins C3a and C5a are key mediators of the innate immune system, which regulates cellular inflammation, oxidative stress, mitochondrial homeostasis and tissue fibrosis. This review summarizes the involvement of anaphylatoxins in the pathogenesis of diabetic kidney disease, highlights their important roles in the pathophysiologic changes of glomerulopathy, tubulointerstitial damage and immune cell infiltration, and discusses the modulatory effects of new anti-diabetic drugs acting on the complement system. Based on available clinical data and findings from the preclinical studies of complement blockade, anaphylatoxin-targeted therapeutics may become a promising approach for patients with DKD in the future.

More than Just Protein Folding: The Epichaperome, Mastermind of the Cancer Cell

The epichaperome, a dynamic and integrated network of chaperone proteins, extends its roles beyond basic protein folding to protein stabilization and intracellular signal transduction to orchestrating a multitude of cellular processes critical for tumor survival. In this review, we explore the multifaceted roles of the epichaperome, delving into its diverse cellular locations, factors that modulate its formation and function, its liquid-liquid phase separation, and the key signaling and crosstalk pathways it regulates, including cellular metabolism and intracellular signal transduction. We further highlight techniques for isolating and identifying epichaperome networks, pitfalls, and opportunities. Further, we review the profound implications of the epichaperome for cancer treatment and therapy design, underscoring the need for strategic engineering that hinges on a comprehensive insight into the comprehensive structure and workings of the epichaperome across the heterogeneous cell subpopulations in the tumor milieu. By presenting a holistic view of the epichaperome's functions and mechanisms, we aim to underscore its potential as a key target for novel anti-cancer strategies, revealing that the epichaperome is not merely a piece of protein folding machinery but a mastermind that facilitates the malignant phenotype.

CFAP65 is essential for C2a projection integrity in axonemes: implications for organ-specific ciliary dysfunction and infertility

Defects in motile cilia and flagella lead to motile ciliopathies, including primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD), which manifests as multi-organ dysfunction such as hydrocephalus, infertility, and respiratory issues. CFAP65 variants are a common cause of male infertility, but its localization and function have remained unclear. In this study, we systematically evaluated CFAP65's role using Cfap65 knockout mice and human patients with CFAP65 variants. The knockout mice displayed severe sperm flagellar defects (MMAF), high hydrocephalus incidence, but no significant impact on respiratory cilia. Similarly, the patients exhibited MMAF and infertility without respiratory symptoms. CFAP65 was found to anchor at the base of the C2a projection of the axoneme, interacting with proteins such as CFAP70 and MYCBPAP. Loss of CFAP65 caused disorganization of the sperm head-shaping microtubule structure and impaired protamine precursor removal, leading to nuclear condensation defects and poor assisted reproductive outcomes. Importantly, the assembly of CFAP65 was unaffected in mice with defects in the radial spokes (RSs) and nexin-dynein regulatory complex (N-DRC), indicating that CFAP65 assembly is independent of these components. However, CFAP65 deficiency led to the disintegration of the C2a projection, compromising ciliary and flagellar integrity. These findings establish CFAP65 as an essential component of the C2a projection, critical for the structure and function of sperm flagella and ependymal cilia, but not respiratory cilia, underscoring the organ-specific consequences of C2a projection defects in PCD.

Cell migration signaling through the EGFR-VAV2-Rac1 pathway is sustained in endosomes

Ligand binding to EGFR activates Rho family GTPases, triggering actin cytoskeleton reorganization, cell migration and invasion. Activated EGFR is also rapidly endocytosed but the role of EGFR endocytosis in cell motility is poorly understood. Hence, we used live-cell microscopy imaging to demonstrate that endogenous fluorescently labeled VAV2, a guanine nucleotide exchange factor for Rho GTPases, is co-endocytosed with EGFR in genome-edited human oral squamous cell carcinoma (HSC3) cells, an in vitro model for head-and-neck cancer where VAV2 is known to promote metastasis and is associated with poor prognosis. Chemotactic migration of HSC3 cells toward an EGF gradient is found to require both VAV2 and clathrin-mediated endocytosis. Moreover, sustained activation of Rac1, a Rho family GTPase promoting cell migration and a major substrate of VAV2, also depends on clathrin. Endogenous fluorescently labeled Rac1 localizes to EGFR-containing endosomes. Altogether, our findings suggest that signaling through the EGFR-VAV2-Rac1 pathway persists in endosomes and that this endosomal signaling is required for EGFR-driven cell migration.

Associations Between Complement C4, Habitual Constipation, and Sleep Disturbance in Oldest-Old and Centenarian Chinese Adults

Background

Sleep disturbance is an immune-related disease, and the gut-brain axis is an important regulatory pathway. This cross-sectional study was designed to address these associations between complement C4, habitual constipation, and sleep disturbance and presents a reference for prevention and treatment of sleep disturbance.

Methods

Based on the China Hainan Centenarian Cohort Study, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was used to evaluate sleep disturbance following standard procedure. Complement C4 and habitual constipation were assessed between groups with sleep disturbance and without sleep disturbance by enzyme colorimetry and Intestinal Health Questionnaire, respectively.

Results

A total of 1621 participants were included with the prevalence of sleep disturbance being 30.41%. Complement C4 was significantly lower (24 mg/dL versus 25 mg/dL, P < 0.05) and habitual constipation was significantly higher (19.88% versus 14.27%, P < 0.05) in the group with sleep disturbance than in the group without sleep disturbance. Multiple linear regression models detected a negative association between complement C4 and PSQI (β: -0.030, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.052--0.008, P < 0.05) and a positive association between habitual constipation and PSQI (β: 0.610, 95% CI: 0.145-1.074, P < 0.05). In the multiple logistic regression models, complement C4 was negatively associated with sleep disturbance (odds ratio: 0.978, 95% CI: 0.963-0.993, P < 0.05), and habitual constipation was positively associated with sleep disturbance (odds ratio: 1.609, 95% CI: 1.194-2.168, P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The present study provides epidemiological evidence that sleep disturbance is negatively associated with complement C4 and positively associated with habitual constipation in oldest-old and centenarian Chinese adults, which expands the knowledge for the associations between complement C4, habitual constipation, and sleep disturbance in the elderly population and provides new insights and pathways on the treatment of sleep disturbance by regulating immune factors and intestinal function.

CCR5 and IL-12 co-expression in CAR T cells improves antitumor efficacy by reprogramming tumor microenvironment in solid tumors

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy for solid tumors faces significant challenges, including inadequate infiltration, limited proliferation, diminished effector function of CAR T cells, and an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). In this study, we utilized The Cancer Genome Atlas database to identify key chemokines (CCL4, CCL5, and CCR5) associated with T cell infiltration across various solid tumor types. The CCL4/CCL5-CCR5 axis emerged as significantly correlated with the presence of T cells within tumors, and enhancing the expression of CCR5 in CAR T cells bolstered their migratory capacity. Furthermore, single-cell immunoprofiling of tumor tissues revealed that macrophages within the TME primarily interact with CD8+ T cells, impeding their tumor response. However, CAR T cells engineered to secrete Interleukin (IL)-12 can counteract macrophage-mediated immunosuppression and augment T cell functionality. To address these obstacles, we employed esophageal carcinoma as a model to develop mesothelin-targeted CAR T cells co-expressing CCR5 and IL-12 (CARTmeso-5-12), subsequently assessing their antitumor capabilities in vitro and in vivo. The CARTmeso-5-12 cells demonstrated enhanced tumor infiltration due to overexpression of CCR5, and IL-12 secretion further amplified CAR T cell efficacy by attenuating the suppressive influence of tumor-infiltrating macrophages, thus improving tumor eradication.