Current landscape and future prospects of interleukin-2 receptor (IL-2R) agonists in cancer immunotherapy

Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) has significantly improved the survival for many patients with advanced malignancy. However, fewer than 50% of patients benefit from ICB, highlighting the need for more effective immunotherapy options. High-dose interleukin-2 (HD IL-2) immunotherapy, which is approved for patients with metastatic melanoma and renal cell carcinoma, stimulates CD8+ T cells and NK cells and can generate durable responses in a subset of patients. Moreover, HD IL-2 may have potential efficacy in patients whose disease has progressed following ICB and plays a vital role in expanding tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) in TIL therapy. Despite its potential, the use of HD IL-2 is limited by severe toxicities such as hypotension and vascular leak syndrome. Additionally, only a few patients achieve a good outcome after HD IL-2 therapy. To address these challenges, numerous next-generation IL-2 receptor (IL-2 R) agonists have been developed to exhibit treatment effects while minimizing adverse events. This review will explore IL-2 biology, the clinical application of HD IL-2 therapy, and the development of novel IL-2 R agonists for cancer immunotherapy.

Effect of amniotic fluid on hair follicle growth

Purpose: Human amniotic fluid stem cells (hAFSCs) have shown significant regenerative potential in treating hair loss, wound healing, and tissue repair. This study aims to evaluate the effects of human amniotic fluid (hAF) on hair follicle (HF) regeneration and immune system modulation.

Materials and Methods: The hAF used was pooled, acellular, and gamma-irradiated to standardize its contents and enhance its stability. Both irradiated (FAFI) and non-irradiated (FAF) hAF were assessed for their efficacy and safety in promoting hair growth and modulating immune responses in a rat model of hair loss. The study examined HF regeneration, transition to the anagen phase, and macrophage polarization from the pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype to the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype.

Results: Both FAF and FAFI treatments significantly increased HF density, with FAFI exhibiting enhanced effects. Histological analysis demonstrated improved HF regeneration, increased M2 macrophages, and reduced collagen fiber deposition in treated areas. Gamma irradiation likely improved the efficacy of FAFI by stabilizing active components and inhibiting protease activity.

Conclusions: Irradiated hAF is a safe and effective therapeutic candidate for alopecia and HF growth disorders. These findings support further evaluation of hAF in clinical trials to validate its potential for hair regeneration therapies.

Immunogenicity and vaccine efficacy of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae-derived extracellular vesicles as a novel vaccine candidate

Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae (APP) is a significant pathogen in the swine industry, leading to substantial economic losses and highlighting the need for effective vaccines. This study evaluates the potential of APP-derived extracellular vesicles (APP-EVs) as a vaccine candidate compared to the commercial Coglapix vaccine. APP-EVs, isolated using tangential flow filtration (TFF) and cushioned ultracentrifugation, exhibited an average size of 105 nm and a zeta potential of -17.4 mV. These EVs demonstrated stability under external stressors, such as pH changes and enzymatic exposure and were found to contain 86 major metabolites. Additionally, APP-EVs induced dendritic cell (DC) maturation in a Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)-dependent manner without cytotoxicity. APP-EVs predominantly elicited Th1-mediated IgG responses in immunized mice without significant liver and kidney toxicity. Contrarily, unlike Coglapix, which induced stronger Th2-mediated responses and notable toxicity. In addition, APP-EVs triggered APP-specific Th1, Th17, and cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) responses and promoted the activation of multifunctional T-cells. Notably, APP-EV immunization enhanced macrophage phagocytosis and improved survival rates in mice challenged with APP infection compared to those treated with Coglapix. These findings suggest that APP-EVs are promising vaccine candidates, capable of inducing potent APP-specific T-cell responses, particularly Th1, Th17, CTL, and multifunctional T-cells, thereby enhancing the protective immune response against APP infection.

RNA-binding proteins as therapeutic targets in cancer

RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) have emerged as critical regulators of cancer progression, influencing virtually all hallmarks of cancer. Their ability to modulate gene expression patterns that promote or inhibit tumorigenesis has positioned RBPs as promising targets for novel anti-cancer therapies. This mini-review summarizes the current state of RBP-targeted cancer treatments, focusing on five examples, eIF4F, FTO, SF3B1, RBM39 and nucleolin. We highlight the diversity of current targeting approaches and discuss ongoing challenges including the complexity of RBP regulatory networks, potential off-target effects and the need for more specific targeting methods. By assessing the future potential of novel therapeutic avenues, we provide insights into the evolving landscape of cancer treatment and the critical role RBPs may play in next-generation therapeutics.

Interbacterial warfare in the human gut: insights from Bacteroidales' perspective

Competition and cooperation are fundamental to the stability and evolution of ecological communities. The human gut microbiota, a dense and complex microbial ecosystem, plays a critical role in the host's health and disease, with competitive interactions being particularly significant. As a dominant and extensively studied group in the human gut, Bacteroidales serves as a successful model system for understanding these intricate dynamic processes. This review summarizes recent advances in our understanding of the intricate antagonism mechanisms among gut Bacteroidales at the biochemical or molecular-genetic levels, focusing on interference and exploitation competition. We also discuss unresolved questions and suggest strategies for studying the competitive mechanisms of Bacteroidales. The review presented here offers valuable insights into the molecular basis of bacterial antagonism in the human gut and may inform strategies for manipulating the microbiome to benefit human health.

Alternative splicing of the Snap23 microexon is regulated by MBNL, QKI, and RBFOX2 in a tissue-specific manner and is altered in striated muscle diseases

The reprogramming of alternative splicing networks during development is a hallmark of tissue maturation and identity. Alternative splicing of microexons (small, genomic regions ≤ 51 nucleotides) functionally regulate protein-protein interactions in the brain and is altered in several neuronal diseases. However, little is known about the regulation and function of alternatively spliced microexons in striated muscle. Here, we investigated alternative splicing of a microexon in the synaptosome-associated protein 23 (Snap23) encoded gene. We found that inclusion of this microexon is developmentally regulated and tissue-specific, as it occurs exclusively in adult heart and skeletal muscle. The alternative region is highly conserved in mammalian species and encodes an in-frame sequence of 11 amino acids. Furthermore, we showed that alternative splicing of this microexon is mis-regulated in mouse models of heart and skeletal muscle diseases. We identified the RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) quaking (QKI) and RNA binding fox-1 homolog 2 (RBFOX2) as the primary splicing regulators of the Snap23 microexon. We found that QKI and RBFOX2 bind downstream of the Snap23 microexon to promote its inclusion, and this regulation can be escaped when the weak splice donor is mutated to the consensus 5' splice site. Finally, we uncovered the interplay between QKI and muscleblind-like splicing regulator (MBNL) as an additional, but minor layer of Snap23 microexon splicing control. Our results are one of the few reports detailing microexon alternative splicing regulation during mammalian striated muscle development.

Causal impact of elevated body mass index on diabetic kidney disease: an integrated Mendelian randomization and Global Burden of Disease Study 2021 analysis

BACKGROUND

Elevated body mass index (BMI) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of diabetic kidney disease among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DKD). However, establishing a causal relationship and quantifying the resultant global health impact remain challenging.

METHODS

A two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was conducted using summary-level data obtained from the IEU database. Multiple MR approaches, including inverse variance weighted (IVW), MR-Egger regression, weighted median, weighted mode, and simple mode methods, were implemented to ensure robust causal inference. In parallel, Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) 2021 were analyzed to determine the trends in mortality and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) in T2DKD attributable to high BMI (HBMI-T2DKD) from 1990 to 2021. Joinpoint regression was used to estimate the average annual percent change (AAPC). Bayesian age-period-cohort (BAPC) models were then applied to project the disease burden through 2049.

RESULTS

MR analyses provided strong evidence for a causal relationship between elevated BMI and T2DKD. The GBD analysis revealed a sustained global increase in HBMI-T2DKD burden over the past three decades. Between 1990 and 2021, the result of AAPC indicated a persistent upward trend. The burden was particularly high among older adults, with the highest impact observed in East Asia and middle Socio-Demographic Index (SDI) region. By 2049, HBMI-T2DKD-related disease burden were projected to continue rising.

CONCLUSIONS

Elevated BMI is a significant causal risk factor for T2DKD. The integration of MR and GBD 2021 data underscores the urgent need for targeted public health interventions to reduce BMI levels, especially in high-risk regions and aging populations.

Microbial succinate promotes the response to metformin by upregulating secretory immunoglobulin a in intestinal immunity

Metformin is the first-line pharmacotherapy for type 2 diabetes mellitus; however, many patients respond poorly to this drug in clinical practice. The potential involvement of microbiota-mediated intestinal immunity and related signals in metformin responsiveness has not been previously investigated. In this study, we successfully constructed a humanized mouse model by fecal transplantation of the gut microbiota from clinical metformin-treated - responders and non-responders, and reproduced the difference in clinical phenotypes of responsiveness to metformin. The abundance of Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron, considered a representative differential bacterium of metformin responsiveness, and the level of secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) in intestinal immunity increased significantly in responder recipient mice following metformin treatment. In contrast, no significant alterations in B. thetaiotaomicron and SIgA were observed in non-responder recipient mice. The study of IgA-/- mice confirmed that downregulated expression or deficiency of SIgA resulted in non-response to metformin, meaning that metformin was unable to improve dysfunctional glucose metabolism and reduce intestinal and adipose tissue inflammation, ultimately leading to systemic insulin resistance. Furthermore, supplementation with succinate, a microbial product of B. thetaiotaomicron, potentially reversed the non-response to metformin by inducing the production of SIgA. In conclusion, we demonstrated that upregulated SIgA, which could be regulated by succinate, was functionally involved in metformin response through its influence on immune cell-mediated inflammation and insulin resistance. Conversely, an inability to regulate SIgA may result in a lack of response to metformin.

Microbiota-derived IPA alleviates intestinal mucosal inflammation through upregulating Th1/Th17 cell apoptosis in inflammatory bowel disease

The gut microbiota-derived metabolite indole-3-propionic acid (IPA) plays an important role in maintaining intestinal mucosal homeostasis, while the molecular mechanisms underlying IPA regulation on mucosal CD4+ T cell functions in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) remain elusive. Here we investigated the roles of IPA in modulating mucosal CD4+ T cells and its therapeutic potential in treatment of human IBD. Leveraging metabolomics and microbial community analyses, we observed that the levels of IPA-producing microbiota (e.g. Peptostreptococcus, Clostridium, and Fournierella) and IPA were decreased, while the IPA-consuming microbiota (e.g. Parabacteroides, Erysipelatoclostridium, and Lachnoclostridium) were increased in the feces of IBD patients than those in healthy donors. Dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced acute colitis and CD45RBhighCD4+ T cell transfer-induced chronic colitis models were then established in mice and treated orally with IPA to study its role in intestinal mucosal inflammation in vivo. We found that oral administration of IPA attenuated mucosal inflammation in both acute and chronic colitis models in mice, as characterized by increased body weight, and reduced levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g. TNF-α, IFN-γ, and IL-17A) and histological scores in the colon. We further utilized RNA sequencing, molecular docking simulations, and surface plasmon resonance analyses and identified that IPA exerts its biological effects by interacting with heat shock protein 70 (HSP70), leading to inducing Th1/Th17 cell apoptosis. Consistently, ectopic expression of HSP70 in CD4+ T cells conferred resistance to IPA-induced Th1/Th17 cell apoptosis. Therefore, these findings identify a previously unrecognized pathway by which IPA modulates intestinal inflammation and provide a promising avenue for the treatment of IBD.

Mechanism of action of genistein on breast cancer and differential effects of different age stages

CONTEXT

Genistein, a soy-derived isoflavone, exhibits structural similarities with 17β-estradiol and demonstrates antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and estrogenic properties. Despite its low bioavailability limiting its clinical application, it shows potential for breast cancer prevention and treatment.

OBJECTIVE

This review aims to summarize the pharmacological effects and molecular mechanisms of genistein in breast cancer, focusing on its therapeutic potential, strategies to overcome bioavailability limitations, and its role in personalized medicine. Differential impacts among population subgroups are also discussed.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted using PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar databases. Studies were selected based on their focus on genistein's mechanisms of action, strategies to enhance its bioavailability, and interactions with other therapies.

RESULTS

Genistein exerted anticancer effects by modulating estrogen receptor β (ERβ), inhibiting angiogenesis, arresting the cell cycle, and inducing apoptosis. Its antioxidant properties help mitigate tumor-associated oxidative stress. Bioavailability enhancement strategies, such as nanoparticle and lipid-based formulations, show promise. Age-dependent effects were evident, with distinct responses observed in prepubertal, menopausal, and postmenopausal populations, underscoring its potential for personalized therapies. Furthermore, genistein influences epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation and miRNA expression, bolstering its anticancer efficacy.

CONCLUSION

Genistein is a promising candidate for breast cancer therapy, particularly for personalized treatment. Strategies to enhance bioavailability and further clinical research are essential to optimize its therapeutic potential and evaluate its efficacy in combination therapies.

Sodium aescinate protects renal ischemia-reperfusion and pyroptosis through AKT/NLRP3 signaling pathway

Renal ischemia-reperfusion injury (RIRI) is a common cause of acute renal injury. Studies have shown that sodium aescinate (SA) may serve as a potential therapeutic agent, although its exact mechanism remains unclear. This study first evaluated the efficacy of SA using a mouse renal ischemia-reperfusion model. Subsequently, its mechanism was elucidated through systematic bioinformatics, and finally validated through in vitro and in vivo experiments. The results demonstrated that SA has a protective effect on renal function in mice with RIRI. Bioinformatic analysis indicated that the pyroptosis pathway is significantly activated during renal ischemia-reperfusion injury, and immunohistochemistry showed that the level of renal pyroptosis is upregulated during ischemia-reperfusion injury. Administration of SA was able to reduce the expression of pyroptosis-related proteins (GSDMD, NLRP3, IL-1β) in RIRI. In vitro and in vivo experiments further confirmed that SA exerts an anti-pyroptotic effect by inhibiting the AKT/NLRP3 signaling pathway. Ultimately, SA mitigates kidney injury in IRI mice by suppressing renal failure through inhibition of the AKT/NLRP3 signaling pathway.

Dual implication of endothelial adhesion molecules in tumor progression and cancer immunity

Adhesion molecules are proteins expressed at the surface of various cell types. Their main contribution to immunity is to allow the infiltration of immune cells in an inflamed site. In cancer, adhesion molecules have been shown to promote tumor dissemination favoring the development of metastasis. While adhesion molecule inhibition approaches were unsuccessful for cancer control, their importance for the generation of an immune response alone or in combination with immunotherapies has gained interest over the past years. Currently, the balance of adhesion molecules for tumor promotion/inhibition is unclear. Here we review the role of selectins, intercellular adhesion molecules (ICAM) and vascular cell adhesion molecules (VCAM) from the perspective of the dual contribution of adhesion molecules in tumor progression and immunity.

Progress and challenges in Nipah vaccine development and licensure for epidemic preparedness and response

INTRODUCTION

Nipah virus is a high-consequence pathogen that causes sporadic outbreaks with high mortality, and there are currently no vaccines or therapeutics available for Nipah. Vaccine development against Nipah faces challenges due to its current epidemiology with limited outbreak sizes, which impedes the feasibility of conducting vaccine efficacy trials focused on disease endpoints.

AREAS COVERED

We review the progress of Nipah vaccine candidates in human clinical trials and highlight the challenges in evaluating the vaccine efficacy due to the sporadic nature of Nipah outbreaks, given the epidemic potential of Nipah virus and its implications for pandemic preparedness. We examine the alternative regulatory pathways, including the US FDA's Animal Rule and EMA's conditional marketing authorization, which permit vaccine approval based on surrogate markers rather than efficacy data from the large-scale Phase-3 efficacy trials. The need for standardized immune surrogate markers is emphasized, alongside calls for international collaboration to develop such endpoints and manage stockpile strategies.

EXPERT OPINION

We recommend alignment among vaccine developers, regulators, and global health stakeholders to incentivize Nipah vaccine development and approval through alternative regulatory pathways, as well as ensuring epidemic preparedness via strategic vaccine stockpiling and response through targeted deployment strategies.

Mpox virus poxin-schlafen fusion protein suppresses innate antiviral response by sequestering STAT2

Mpox virus (MPXV) has to establish efficient interferon (IFN) antagonism for effective replication. MPXV-encoded IFN antagonists have not been fully elucidated. In this study, the IFN antagonism of poxin-schlafen (PoxS) fusion gene of MPXV was characterized. MPXV PoxS was capable of decreasing cGAS-produced 2'3'-cGAMP, like its ortholog poxin of vaccinia virus, which is the first known cytosolic nuclease that hydrolyses the 3'-5' bond of 2'3'-cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP). However, MPXV PoxS did not suppress cGAS-STING-mediated type I IFN production. Instead, MPXV PoxS antagonized basal and type I IFN-induced expression of IFN-stimulated genes such as OAS1, SAMD9, SAMD9L, ISG15, ISG56 and IFIT3. Consistently, MPXV PoxS inhibited both basal and type I IFN-stimulated activity of interferon-stimulated response elements, but did not affect activation of IFN-γ-activated sites. Mechanistically, MPXV PoxS interacted with STAT2 and sequestered it in the cytoplasm. Both the viral schlafen fusion and the active site of 2'3'-cGAMP nuclease were required for STAT2 sequestration and consequent suppression of IFN-stimulated gene expression. MPXV PoxS conferred resistance to the suppression of MPXV replication by type I IFN. Taken together, our findings suggested that MPXV PoxS counteracts host antiviral response by sequestering STAT2 to circumvent basal and type I IFN-induced expression of antiviral genes.

COVID-19 vaccine knowledge and acceptance among the Libyan population: A cross-sectional study

We aim to identify Libyans' knowledge, attitudes, and acceptance regarding the COVID-19 vaccine. A cross-sectional survey was electronically distributed to the Libyan population aged 18 and older between May and September 2023. The questionnaire had three sections: socio-demographics, COVID-19 vaccination and infection, and knowledge and attitudes toward the COVID-19 vaccine. The chi-square test was used to assess the associations. A total of 1,043 respondents completed the questionnaire. Of these, 590 (56.6%) were vaccinated, and 453 (43.4%) were unvaccinated. Only age, educational level, employment status, history of COVID-19 infection, and source of information had a significant association with vaccination status; all shared a p-value <.05. However, Monthly income did not. Regarding knowledge, 63.7% agreed that vaccines in general are an effective way to prevent and control infectious diseases, and 76.6% agreed that they can prevent disease and mortality. However, regarding COVID-19 vaccine, 48.4% agreed that the benefits outweigh the risks. Regarding COVID-19 safety, 40.8% responded that COVID-19 vaccines are only slightly safe or not safe at all. COVID-19 vaccine acceptance was at 57.2%, and only age and source of information were significantly associated. Those who held favorable views were more likely to accept the vaccine, while those who had concerns about safety were more vaccine hesitant. There is a gap between the perception of the COVID-19 vaccine compared to other vaccines among Libyans. Our study revealed that 57.2% of Libyans accept the COVID-19 vaccine. However, only 34% of the Libyan population is vaccinated. A comprehensive health policy is needed.

Comparing pulsed field ablation and thermal energy catheter ablation for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation: a cost-effectiveness analysis of the ADVENT trial

BACKGROUND

Pulsed field ablation (PFA) has emerged as an effective technology in the treatment of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF).

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of PFA vs. thermal ablation from a US healthcare payer perspective using data from a randomized trial.

METHODS

A hybrid decision tree and Markov model was developed comparing patients receiving PFA to thermal ablation (either radiofrequency or cryoballoon ablation) from a US healthcare payer perspective at 5-, 10-, 20-, and 40-year time horizons. Direct medical costs (in 2024 US Dollars), quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), and the net monetary benefit were evaluated at a willingness-to-pay (WTP) threshold of $100,000/QALY. Univariate and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed to test model uncertainty. The budget impact for a standard US healthcare payer with 1 million beneficiaries was also assessed.

RESULTS

Over a 40-year time horizon, PFA resulted in an additional 0.044 QALYs at a lower cost of $2,871 compared to thermal ablation. PFA was cost-effective in 54.9% of simulations. Anticoagulation and ablation procedure costs had the largest impact on model uncertainty. The expected cost savings per member per month for a US healthcare payer adopting PFA were $0.00015, $0.0059, and $0.02343 in years 1, 4, and 6, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

PFA was at least as cost-effective as conventional thermal ablation modalities for treatment of paroxysmal AF and potentially reduces US healthcare payer costs. Providers and payers should consider designating PFA among the preferred first-line therapies for eligible patients.

Perspectives on label-free microscopy of heterogeneous and dynamic biological systems

Significance

Advancements in label-free microscopy could provide real-time, non-invasive imaging with unique sources of contrast and automated standardized analysis to characterize heterogeneous and dynamic biological processes. These tools would overcome challenges with widely used methods that are destructive (e.g., histology, flow cytometry) or lack cellular resolution (e.g., plate-based assays, whole animal bioluminescence imaging).

Aim

This perspective aims to (1) justify the need for label-free microscopy to track heterogeneous cellular functions over time and space within unperturbed systems and (2) recommend improvements regarding instrumentation, image analysis, and image interpretation to address these needs.

Approach

Three key research areas (cancer research, autoimmune disease, and tissue and cell engineering) are considered to support the need for label-free microscopy to characterize heterogeneity and dynamics within biological systems. Based on the strengths (e.g., multiple sources of molecular contrast, non-invasive monitoring) and weaknesses (e.g., imaging depth, image interpretation) of several label-free microscopy modalities, improvements for future imaging systems are recommended.

Conclusion

Improvements in instrumentation including strategies that increase resolution and imaging speed, standardization and centralization of image analysis tools, and robust data validation and interpretation will expand the applications of label-free microscopy to study heterogeneous and dynamic biological systems.

Dysregulation of gut microbiota stimulates NETs-driven HCC intrahepatic metastasis: therapeutic implications of healthy faecal microbiota transplantation

The stringent regulation of intrahepatic metastases is essential for improving survival outcomes in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study investigated the impact of gut microbiota on intrahepatic metastasis of HCC and evaluated the therapeutic potential of healthy fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT). Dysregulation of the gut microbiota, characterized by a significant reduction in the abundance of beneficial bacteria, such as Anaerotruncus colihominis and Dysosmobacter welbionis, was observed in patients with intrahepatic metastatic HCC. A human flora-associated (HFA) intrahepatic metastatic HCC mouse model was successfully established through consecutive 4 weeks of human-mouse FMT. Dysregulation of gut microbiota promoted intrahepatic metastasis in the mouse model, primarily by enhancing neutrophil-mediated inflammatory responses and lead to excessive formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). Consequently, it promoted tumor vascular growth and tissue necrosis, resulting in intrahepatic metastasis of HCC. Notably, FMT from healthy donors mitigated these pathological processes. This study elucidated the role and mechanism of dysregulated gut microbiota in promoting intrahepatic metastasis of HCC. Healthy FMT emerges as a promising novel therapeutic strategy for preventing and treating intrahepatic metastasis of HCC.

Rational mpox vaccine design: immunogenicity and protective effect of individual and multicomponent proteins in mice

The 2022 global mpox virus (MPXV) outbreak highlights the urgent need for safer, next-generation vaccines. We compared the immunogenicity and protective efficacy of individual and multicomponent membrane proteins of MPXV virions in mice to inform the development of a recombinant subunit vaccine against mpox. BALB/c mice were immunized with eukaryotically expressed A35R, A29L, B6R, and M1R proteins, administered individually or in multicomponent combinations with an Al(OH)3 + CpG oligodeoxynucleotide adjuvant. Three multicomponent protein vaccines (A29/B6, A29/B6/M1, and A29/B6/M1/A35) provided complete protection, but others (individual protein and A35/M1 combinations) provided partial protection against challenge with high-lethal doses of vaccinia virus Western Reserve (VACV-WR). Additionally, A29/B6 conferred partial protection, whereas A29/B6/M1 and A29/B6/M1/A35 provided complete protection against ectromelia virus (ECTV), with A29/B6/M1 being most effective. All vaccines induced strong antigen-specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) and cellular immunity, whereas only four (M1, A35/M1, A29/B6/M1, A29/B6/M1/A35) exhibited significant neutralizing activity against MPXV, VACV-Tiantan, and ECTV. Correlation analysis suggested that neutralizing antibodies and A35-/A29-/B6-specific cellular immunity act as complementary defense mechanisms, potentially providing first- and second-line protection against MPXV and related orthopoxviruses. Collectively, A29/B6/M1 demonstrated the best protective efficacy. This study provides novel insights into immunogen optimization and potential mechanisms for the development of vaccines against MPXV and other orthopoxviruses.

Role of genetic polymorphisms in residual ridge resorption of mandible - A scoping review

Residual ridge (RR) refers to the clinical alveolar ridge that remains after the bone and soft tissues have healed following tooth extraction. This ridge undergoes resorption, which is most rapid during the first six months of post-extraction. Subsequently, bone resorption continues at a slower pace throughout life, leading to significant loss of jaw structure over time. This process is commonly known as residual ridge resorption (RRR). RRR is a major factor contributing to the loss of stability and retention, especially in mandibular complete dentures. Severe resorption of the maxillary and mandibular ridges can also lead to a sunken cheek appearance, poorly fitting and unstable dentures, and associated pain and discomfort. Though the etiology of residual ridge resorption remains unclear. It is believed that certain cytokines and individual genetic variations may influence the RRR process. Thus, reviewing the studies that discuss genetic association with the health and resorption of alveolar bone may give clear view on the etiology, help to define the risk and strategize preventive and personalized management of the disease. Hence, we undertook a scoping review to understand the potential genetic factors influencing the Residual ridge resorption (RRR). This review employed PRISMA-ScR extension protocols for scoping review. The results of the study provided significant association between genetic polymorphisms, especially of single gene nucleotide polymorphisms with mandibular residual ridge resorption. Hence understanding the genetic predisposition of patients can guide the clinicians in identifying patients at higher risk of RRR, enabling preventive measures, proactive intervention and careful designing of the prothesis.

Mouse strain-specific responses along the gut-brain axis upon fecal microbiota transplantation from children with autism

Several factors are linked to the pathophysiology of autism spectrum disorders (ASD); however, the molecular mechanisms of the condition remain unknown. As intestinal problems and gut microbiota dysbiosis are associated with ASD development and severity, recent studies have focused on elucidating the microbiota-gut-brain axis' involvement. This study aims to explore mechanisms through which gut microbiota might influence ASD. Briefly, we depleted the microbiota of conventional male BALB/cAnNCrl (Balb/c) and C57BL/6J (BL/6) mice prior to human fecal microbiota transplantation (hFMT) with samples from children with ASD or their neurotypical siblings. We found mouse strain-specific responses to ASD hFMT. Notably, Balb/c mice exhibit decreased exploratory and social behavior, and show evidence of intestinal, systemic, and central inflammation accompanied with metabolic shifts. BL/6 mice show less changes after hFMT. Our results reveal that gut microbiota alone induce changes in ASD-like behavior, and highlight the importance of mouse strain selection when investigating multifactorial conditions like ASD.

Nerve root magnetic stimulation regulates the synaptic plasticity of injured spinal cord by ascending sensory pathway

JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202512000-00026/figure1/v/2025-01-31T122243Z/r/image-tiff Promoting synaptic plasticity and inducing functional reorganization of residual nerve fibers hold clinical significance for restoring motor function following spinal cord injury. Neuromagnetic stimulation targeting the nerve roots has been shown to improve motor function by enhancing nerve conduction in the injured spinal cord and restoring the synaptic ultrastructure of both the sensory and motor cortex. However, our understanding of the neurophysiological mechanisms by which nerve root magnetic stimulation facilitates motor function recovery in the spinal cord is limited, and its role in neuroplasticity remains unclear. In this study, we established a model of spinal cord injury in adult male Sprague-Dawley rats by applying moderate compression at the T10 vertebra. We then performed magnetic stimulation on the L5 nerve root for 3 weeks, beginning on day 3 post-injury. At day 22 post-injury, we observed that nerve root magnetic stimulation downregulated the level of interleukin-6 in the injured spinal cord tissue of rats. Additionally, this treatment reduced neuronal damage and glial scar formation, and increased the number of neurons in the injured spinal cord. Furthermore, nerve root magnetic stimulation decreased the levels of acetylcholine, norepinephrine, and dopamine, and increased the expression of synaptic plasticity-related mRNA and proteins PSD95, GAP43, and Synapsin II. Taken together, these results showed that nerve root magnetic stimulation alleviated neuronal damage in the injured spinal cord, regulated synaptic plasticity, and suppressed inflammatory responses. These findings provide laboratory evidence for the clinical application of nerve root magnetic stimulation in the treatment of spinal cord injury.

COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in Chinese residents: A national cross-sectional survey in the community setting

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccine hesitancy is associated with community aggregation, inducing low vaccine coverage and potentially more frequent community-level outbreak. Addressing vaccine hesitancy in community settings should be a priority for healthcare providers. A cross-sectional online questionnaire survey was conducted during June and July 2022. Ten sites were set up in eastern, central, and western China, from where residents were recruited in a community setting. In total, 7,241 residents from 71 communities were included. Of the residents, 7.0% had refusal administration, 30.4% had delayed administration, and community clustering accounted for 2.4-3.7% and 8.5-9.6% of the variation, respectively. The reasons for primary-dose refusal were diseases, pregnancy, or lactation, whereas the main reasons for booster-dose refusal were diseases during the vaccination period, no time to vaccinate, and felt unnecessary to vaccinate. Younger age (under 40), female, residing in urban settings and having self-reported diseases were sociodemographic indicators of risk for refusal. In the health belief model of refusing to vaccinate, perceived barriers had a positive impact on refusal (β = 0.08), while perceived benefits had a negative impact (β = -0.09). In conclusion, this study underscores the population heterogeneity and community clustering of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine hesitancy. Targeted interventions for these high-risk groups are crucial to enhance vaccination coverage and prevent outbreaks. Public health strategies should address vaccine hesitancy at different stages and doses, while considering both individual beliefs and community dynamics.

Urease in acetogenic Lachnospiraceae drives urea carbon salvage in SCFA pools

The gut microbiota produces short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) and acidifies the proximal colon which inhibits enteric pathogens. However, for many microbiota constituents, how they themselves resist these stresses is unknown. The anaerobic Lachnospiraceae family, which includes the acetogenic genus Blautia, produce SCFA, are genomically diverse, and vary in their capacity to acidify culture media. Here, we investigated how Lachnospiraceae tolerate pH stress and found that subunits of urease were associated with acidification in a random forest model. Urease cleaves urea into ammonia and carbon dioxide, however the role of urease in the physiology of Lachnospiraceae is unknown. We demonstrate that urease-encoding Blautia show urea-dependent changes in SCFA production, acidification, growth, and, strikingly, urease encoding Blautia directly incorporate the carbon from urea into SCFAs. In contrast, ureolytic Klebsiella pneumoniae or Proteus mirabilis do not show the same urea-dependency or carbon salvage. In agreement, the combination of urease and acetogenesis functions is rare in gut taxa. We find that Lachnospiraceae urease and acetogenesis genes can be co-expressed in healthy individuals and colonization of mice with a ureolytic Blautia reduces urea availability in colon contents demonstrating Blautia urease activity in vivo. In human and mouse microbial communities, the acetogenic recycling of urea carbon into acetate by Blautia leads to the incorporation of urea carbon into butyrate indicating carbon salvage into broader metabolite pools. Altogether, this shows that urea plays a central role in the physiology of health-associated Lachnospiraceae which use urea in a distinct manner that is different from that of ureolytic pathogens.

The GluN3-containing NMDA receptors

N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) are heterotetrameric ion channels that play crucial roles in brain function. Among all the NMDAR subtypes, GluN1-N3 receptors exhibit unique agonist binding and gating properties. Unlike "conventional" GluN1-N2 receptors, which require both glycine and glutamate for activation, GluN1-N3 receptors are activated solely by glycine. Furthermore, GluN1-N3 receptors display faster desensitization, reduced Ca2+ permeability, and lower sensitivity to Mg2+ blockage compared to GluN1-N2 receptors. Due to these characteristics, GluN1-N3 receptors are thought to play critical roles in eliminating redundant synapses and pruning spines in early stages of brain development. Recent studies have advanced pharmacological tools for specifically targeting GluN1-N3 receptors and provided direct evidence of these glycine-activated excitatory receptors in native brain tissue. The structural basis of GluN1-N3 receptors has also been elucidated through cryo-EM and artificial intelligence. These findings highlight that GluN1-N3 receptors are not only involved in essential brain functions but also present potential targets for drug development.

Delivery mode, birth order, and sex impact neonatal microbial colonization

The initial microbial colonization of the infant gut during birth plays a critical role in shaping both immediate and long-term health outcomes. While mode of delivery is a known determinant of this colonization process, the potential impacts of infant sex and birth order remain underexplored. This study investigates the influence of delivery mode, infant sex, and birth order (maternal parity) on the microbial communities in first-pass meconium samples from neonates, using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. We found that delivery mode impacted the presence of detectable microbial communities. Specifically, only 17% of samples from neonates delivered by elective Cesarean section showed any microbial presence, compared to approximately two-thirds of samples from neonates exposed to maternal vaginal microbes (emergency C-section or vaginal delivery). Among vaginally delivered neonates without antibiotic exposure, birth order was associated with taxonomic shifts. Neonates born to primiparous mothers had a lower abundance of Bifidobacterium, a keystone species in the infant gut microbiome. Unexpectedly, the gut microbiota differed by infant sex, with males having lower alpha diversity and shifts in microbial community composition (PERMANOVA p = 0.008), characterized by elevated levels of Enterobacteriales, which was both less prevalent and less abundant in female neonates. These findings highlight the intricate interplay between delivery mode, infant sex, and birth order in shaping the early gut microbiome.

Medicinal chemistry breakthroughs on ATM, ATR, and DNA-PK inhibitors as prospective cancer therapeutics

This review discusses the critical roles of Ataxia Telangiectasia Mutated Kinase (ATM), ATM and Rad3-related Kinase (ATR), and DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) in the DNA damage response (DDR) and their implications in cancer. Emphasis is placed on the intricate interplay between these kinases, highlighting their collaborative and distinct roles in maintaining genomic integrity and promoting tumour development under dysregulated conditions. Furthermore, the review covers ongoing clinical trials, patent literature, and medicinal chemistry campaigns on ATM/ATR/DNA-PK inhibitors as antitumor agents. Notably, the medicinal chemistry campaigns employed robust drug design strategies and aimed at assembling new structural templates with amplified DDR kinase inhibitory ability, as well as outwitting the pharmacokinetic liabilities of the existing DDR kinase inhibitors. Given the success attained through such endeavours, the clinical pipeline of DNA repair kinase inhibitors is anticipated to be supplemented by a reasonable number of tractable entries (DDR kinase inhibitors) soon.

Gut microbes with the gbu genes determine TMAO production from L-carnitine intake and serve as a biomarker for precision nutrition

Gut microbial metabolism of L-carnitine, which leads to the production of detrimental trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), offers a plausible link between red meat consumption and cardiovascular risks. Several microbial genes, including cntA/B, the cai operon, and the recently identified gbu gene cluster, have been implicated in the conversion of dietary L-carnitine into TMA(O). However, the key microbial genes and associated gut microbes involved in this pathway have not been fully explored. Utilizing the oral carnitine challenge test (OCCT), which specifically measures TMAO production from L-carnitine intake and identifies TMAO producer phenotypes, we compared the abundance of microbial genes between low- and high-TMAO producers across three independent cohorts. Our findings consistently revealed that the gbu gene cluster, rather than cntA/B or the cai operon, was significantly enriched in high-TMAO producers. We further analyzed 292 paired multi-omic datasets from OCCT and shotgun metagenomic sequencing, which demonstrated a significant positive correlation between the abundance of fecal gbu genes and L-carnitine-induced TMAO production, with gbuB showing the strongest correlation. Interestingly, these fecal gbu genes were found to increase with L-carnitine supplementation and decrease with a plant-based diet. Notably, we verified a previously uncultured gbu-containing bacterium, JAGTTR01 sp018223385, as the major contributor to TMA formation in the human gut. We isolated these gbu-containing gut microbes and confirmed their role in TMA/TMAO production using anaerobic incubation and a gnotobiotic mouse model. Using an in-house collection of gbu-containing isolates, we developed a qPCR-based method to quantify fecal gbuB and validated its correlation with L-carnitine-mediated TMAO production as measured by OCCT. Overall, these findings suggest that gbu-containing gut microbes are crucial for TMAO increases following L-carnitine intake and may serve as biomarkers or targets for personalized nutrition.

Glutamate promotes CCL2 expression to recruit tumor-associated macrophages by restraining EZH2-mediated histone methylation in hepatocellular carcinoma

Glutamate is well-known as metabolite for maintaining the energy and redox homeostasis in cancer, moreover it is also the primary excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. However, whether glutamatergic signaling can regulate hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression and the specific regulatory mechanisms are unknown. In the present study, we found that glutamate and its receptor NMDAR2B were significantly elevated in HCC patients, which predicts poor prognosis. Glutamate could upregulate CCL2 expression on hepatoma cells and further enhance the capability of tumor cells to recruit tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). Mechanistically, glutamate could facilitate CCL2 expression through NMDAR pathway by decreasing the expression of EZH2, which regulates the H3K27me3 levels on the CCL2 promoter, rather than affecting DNA methylation. Moreover, inhibiting glutamate pathway with MK801 could significantly delay tumor growth, with reduced TAMs in implanted Hepa1-6 mouse HCC models. Our work suggested that glutamate could induce CCL2 expression to promote TAM infiltration by negatively regulating EZH2 levels in hepatoma cells, which might serve as a potential prognostic marker and a therapeutic target for HCC patients.

Advancing precision medicine in hepatocellular carcinoma: current challenges and future directions in liquid biopsy, immune microenvironment, single nucleotide polymorphisms, and conversion therapy

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a health concern characterized by heterogeneity and high mortality. Surgical resection, radiofrequency ablation, trans-arterial chemoembolization, and liver transplantation offer potentially curative treatments for early-stage disease, but recurrence remains high. Most patients present with advanced-stage HCC, where locoregional therapies are less effective, and systemic treatments-primarily multi-kinase inhibitors and immune checkpoint inhibitors-often yield limited responses. Precision medicine aims to tailor therapy to molecular and genetic profiles, yet its adoption in HCC is hindered by inter-/intra-tumoral heterogeneity and limited biopsy availability. Advances in molecular diagnostics support reintroducing tissue sampling to better characterize genetic, epigenetic, and immunological features. Liquid biopsy offers a minimally invasive method for capturing real-time tumor evolution, overcoming spatial and temporal heterogeneity. Artificial intelligence and machine learning are revolutionizing biomarker discovery, risk stratification, and treatment planning by integrating multi-omics data. Immunological factors such as tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, natural killer cells, macrophages, and fibroblasts have emerged as determinants of HCC progression and treatment response. Conversion therapy-combining systemic agents with locoregional treatments-has showndemonstrated promise in downstaging unresectable HCC. Ongoing efforts to refine biomarker-driven approaches and optimize multi-modality regimens underscore precision medicine's potential to improve outcomes. PubMed (January 2002-February 2025) was searched for relevant studies.

Risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma: an umbrella review of systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Numerous meta-analyses have identified various risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), prompting a comprehensive study to synthesize evidence quality and strength.

METHODS

This umbrella review of meta-analyses was conducted throughout PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Evidence strength was evaluated according to the evidence categories criteria.

RESULTS

We identified 101 risk factors throughout 175 meta-analyses. 31 risk factors were classified as evidence levels of class I, II, or III. HBV and HCV infections increase HCC risk by 12.5-fold and 11.2-fold, respectively. These risks are moderated by antiviral treatments and virological responses but are exacerbated by higher HBsAg levels, anti-HBc positivity, and co-infection. Smoking, obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, diabetes, low platelet, elevated liver enzymes and liver fluke infection increase HCC risk, while coffee consumption, a healthy diet, and bariatric surgery lower it. Medications like metformin, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), aspirin, statins, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors reduce HCC risk, while acid suppressive agents, particularly proton pump inhibitors, elevate it. Blood type O reduces the risk of HCC, while male gender and older age increase the risk.

CONCLUSIONS

HBV and HCV are major HCC risk factors, with risk mitigation through antiviral treatments. Lifestyle habits such as smoking and alcohol use significantly increase HCC risk, highlighting the importance of cessation. Certain drugs like aspirin, statins, GLP-1 RAs, and metformin may reduce HCC occurrence, but further research is needed to confirm these effects.

Single-cell sequencing of peripheral blood mononuclear cells reveals immune landscape of monkeypox patients with HIV

The monkeypox (MPXV) outbreak in 2022 is more prevalent among individuals with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). While it is plausible that HIV-induced immunosuppression could result in a more severe progression, the exact mechanisms remain undetermined. To better understand the immunopathology of MPXV in patients with and without HIV infection, we employed single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) to analyse peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from six patients hospitalized for MPXV, three of whom had HIV infection (HIV antibody positive and HIV RNA level below the detection limit), and three patients only infected with MPXV (HIV-). We map the peripheral immune response in both the acute phase and the recovery period, showing the reconfiguration of peripheral immune cell phenotypes in acute stage compared with recovery stage, characterized by disturbed cell subsets and intense cell interactions mediated by monocytes and neutrophils. Importantly, we also found obviously dysregulated gene expression and cell subsets in HIV+ patients proposing mechanism underlying their serious condition. Our findings provide a comprehensive cell atlas of MPXV patients, shed light on the mechanisms underlying the severe disease progression and longer recovery time in HIV+ individuals.

Prognostic signature based on mitochondria- and angiogenesis-related genes associated with immune microenvironment of multiple myeloma

INTRODUCTION

Mitochondria and angiogenesis play key roles in multiple myeloma (MM) development, but their interrelated genes affecting MM prognosis are under-studied.

METHODS

We analyzed TCGA_MMRF and GSE4581 datasets to identify four genes - CCNB1, CDC25C, HSP90AA1, and PARP1 - that significantly correlate with MM prognosis, with high expression indicating poor outcomes.

RESULTS

A prognostic signature based on these genes stratified patients into high- and low-risk groups, with the latter showing better survival. The signature was validated as an independent prognostic factor. Biological function analysis revealed differences in cell cycle processes between risk groups, and immune microenvironment analysis showed distinct immune cell infiltration patterns.

CONCLUSION

This mitochondria- and angiogenesis-related prognostic signature could enhance MM prognosis assessment and offer new therapeutic insights.

Generation of cynomolgus monkey capsid-specific positive control cells for IFNγ ELISpot assays for adeno-associated gene therapy applications

Cell-mediated immune (CMI) responses to adeno-associated virus (AAV) can lead to tissue damage and loss of therapeutic transgene expression. Identifying robust biomarkers and mechanisms of CMI can aid clinical practice and advancement of AAV gene therapies. The present work evaluated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from non-human primates (NHP) before and after immunization with adenovirus 5 encoding AAV9 capsid antigen. PBMC were stimulated ex vivo with AAV9 capsid peptides to evaluate CMI responses by interferon (IFN)-γ ELISpot, intracellular cytokines/activation markers, secreted cytokines, and RNAseq. AAV peptide stimulation produced a robust IFNγ ELISpot 11 days after immunization and ≈ 4 years after cryopreservation. Flow cytometry revealed increased IFNγ, interleukin (IL)-2, or tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-positive T-cells. Increases in secreted CXCR3 ligands (IP-10, I-TAC) were detected. Robust changes and correlations to ELISpot responses were revealed by RNAseq, including IFNγ, IP-10, and I-TAC, many downstream transcripts, and several IFN-independent pathways. These data from AAV-immunized NHP identify biomarkers that could serve as robust and sensitive supplements/alternatives to ELISpot for early detection of CMI responses. Assessment of these biomarkers in non-clinical and clinical studies is a critical next step to determine the translation of this work to administration of a therapeutic AAV vector.

Targeting γc family cytokines with biologics: current status and future prospects

Over the recent decades the market potential of biologics has substantially expanded, and many of the top-selling drugs worldwide are now monoclonal antibodies or antibody-like molecules. The common gamma chain (γc) cytokines, Interleukin (IL-)2, IL-4, IL-7, IL-9, IL-15, and IL-21, play pivotal roles in regulating immune responses, from innate to adaptive immunity. Dysregulation of cell signaling by these cytokines is strongly associated with a range of immunological disorders, which includes cancer as well as autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Given the essential role of γc cytokines in maintaining immune homeostasis, the development of therapeutic interventions targeting these molecules poses unique challenges. Here, we provide an overview of current biologics targeting either single or multiple γc cytokines or their respective receptor subunits across a spectrum of diseases, primarily focusing on antibodies, antibody-like constructs, and antibody-cytokine fusions. We summarize therapeutic biologics currently in clinical trials, highlighting how they may offer advantages over existing therapies and standard of care, and discuss recent advances in this field. Finally, we explore future directions and the potential of novel therapeutic intervention strategies targeting this cytokine family.

Patient-derived tumor explant models of tumor immune microenvironment reveal distinct and reproducible immunotherapy responses

Tumor-resident immune cells play a crucial role in eliciting anti-tumor immunity and immunomodulatory drug responses, yet these functions have been difficult to study without tractable models of the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). Patient-derived ex vivo models contain authentic resident immune cells and therefore, could provide new mechanistic insights into how the TIME responds to tumor or immune cell-directed therapies. Here, we assessed the reproducibility and robustness of immunomodulatory drug responses across two different ex vivo models of breast cancer TIME and one of renal cell carcinoma. These independently developed TIME models were treated with a panel of clinically relevant immunomodulators, revealing remarkably similar changes in gene expression and cytokine profiles among the three models in response to T cell activation and STING-agonism, while still preserving individual patient-specific response patterns. Moreover, we found two common core signatures of adaptive or innate immune responses present across all three models and both types of cancer, potentially serving as benchmarks for drug-induced immune activation in ex vivo models of the TIME. The robust reproducibility of immunomodulatory drug responses observed across diverse ex vivo models of the TIME underscores the significance of human patient-derived models in elucidating the complexities of anti-tumor immunity and therapeutic interventions.

Maternal group B Streptococcus decreases infant length and alters the early-life microbiome: a prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Maternal colonization with Group B Streptococcus (GBS) disrupts the vaginal microbiota, potentially affecting infant microbiota assembly and growth. While the gut microbiota's importance in infant growth is recognized, the specific effects of maternal GBS on growth remain unclear. This study aimed to explore the effects of maternal vaginal GBS during pregnancy on early infant growth, microbiome, and metabolomics.

METHODS

We recruited and classified 453 pregnant women from southern China into GBS or healthy groups based on GBS vaginal colonization. Their infants were categorized as GBS-exposed or GBS-unexposed groups. We comprehensively analyzed infant growth, gut microbiota, and metabolites during early life, along with maternal vaginal microbiota during pregnancy, using 16S rDNA sequencing and targeted metabolomics.

RESULTS

GBS-exposed infants exhibited lower length-for-age z-scores (LAZ) than GBS-unexposed infants, especially at 2 months. Altered gut microbiota and metabolites in GBS-exposed infants correlated with growth, mediating the impact of maternal GBS on infant LAZ. Changes in the vaginal microbiota of the GBS group during the third trimester correlated with infant LAZ. Additionally, differences in neonatal gut microbiota, metabolites, and vaginal microbiota during pregnancy were identified between infants with overall LAZ<-1 within 8 months after birth and their counterparts, enhancing the discriminatory power of fundamental data for predicting the occurrence of LAZ<-1 during the first 8 months of life.

CONCLUSIONS

GBS exposure is associated with decreased infant length growth, with altered microbiota and metabolites potentially mediating the effects of maternal GBS on offspring length growth, offering potential targets for predicting and addressing growth impairment.

Implementing scalable face-to-face and digital interventions among forcibly displaced persons from Ukraine in Europe: protocol of The U-RISE Project

Background: The full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine on 24 February 2022 has led to millions of forcibly displaced persons (FDPs) within Ukraine and other European countries. Due to war-related exposure and displacement adversities, this group is at significant risk of developing depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other mental health problems. Systemic barriers, including insufficiently equipped mental health systems and language barriers, prevent FDPs from receiving adequate mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS). Scalable interventions delivered in person by non-specialist helpers, or digitally, provide opportunities to scale up the MHPSS response.Objectives: This paper aims to provide an overview of the 'Ukraine's displaced people in the EU: Reach out, Implement, Scale-up and Evaluate interventions promoting mental wellbeing' (U-RISE) project. U-RISE aims to improve the mental wellbeing of FDPs from Ukraine by establishing a network of Ukrainian mental health professionals, building sustainable capacity for provision and supporting implementation of scalable face-to-face and digital mental health interventions adapted to the specific needs of this population.Method: We build capacity for and implement scalable face-to-face interventions, including Problem Management Plus, Self Help Plus, and Multi-family Approach, for FDPs from Ukraine in Poland, Slovakia and Romania. Digital interventions, including the Doing What Matters in Times of Stress digital guide and a Telegram-based chatbot 'Friend' using principles of Psychological First Aid, are being implemented in Europe and Ukraine. To monitor the population's mental wellbeing and impact of the interventions, qualitative needs assessments among mental health providers and FDPs, and quantitative assessments pre- and post-intervention are collected.Conclusion: We provide a framework for the rapid implementation of face-to-face and digital interventions in countries that need to scale up their MHPSS in response to humanitarian or complex emergency crises.

Interactive effect of sleep duration and trouble sleeping on frailty in chronic kidney disease: findings from NHANES, 2005-2018

BACKGROUND

Both sleep disorders and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are recognized as significant public health concerns. In the general population, sleep disorders have been shown to be associated with frailty in the elderly. This study aims to evaluate the association between sleep duration and trouble sleeping with frailty in CKD patients, as well as the potential interactive effect between these two factors.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) spanning 2005-2018. Sleep duration and trouble sleeping was self-reported. Frailty was assessed using a 49-item frailty index. The associations between sleep duration, trouble sleeping, and frailty were analyzed using weighted multivariate logistic regression and restricted cubic splines. Subgroup analysis was conducted to determine the consistency of the study's conclusions across various subgroups.

RESULTS

A total of 5,211 adult CKD patients were included in this analysis. Regression analysis results indicated that short sleep duration (OR = 1.364, 95% CI: 1.152-1.616), long sleep duration (OR = 1.648, 95% CI: 1.259-2.157), and trouble sleeping (OR = 2.572, 95% CI: 2.102-3.147) were significantly associated with an increased risk of frailty in CKD patients, with an interaction between sleep duration and trouble sleeping. Subgroup analysis revealed that the effects of trouble sleeping and sleep duration on frailty symptoms in CKD patients exhibit significant variation across age groups (p < 0.05 for interaction), with no notable differences observed in other subgroups. RCS results demonstrated a U-shaped relationship between frailty and sleep duration, with the lowest risk of frailty at 7.12 h of sleep.

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicated that both sleep duration and trouble sleeping were significantly associated with frailty in CKD patients, with a notable interaction between these two factors. Therefore, prevention and intervention strategies for frailty in CKD patients should address multiple aspects of sleep health.

Successful treatment of a keloid on the upper lip by trepanation and radiotherapy: a case report

Purpose: Keloid tissue represents an abnormal proliferation of fibroblasts, typically resulting from skin injury. These lesions can lead to significant physiological dysfunction and aesthetic concerns, particularly when located on the face. Traditional treatments, such as intralesional injections, laser therapy, and surgical excision, have shown limited efficacy and are associated with high recurrence rates.

Materials and methods: In a recent case, a 19-year-old male with a keloid on the upper lip did not respond to local injections of triamcinolone acetonide (TAC) or carbon dioxide ablative fractional resurfacing laser therapy.

Results: A combined treatment approach involving trepanation and superficial radiotherapy successfully flattened the keloid tissue, with no recurrence observed during a 3-year follow-up period.

Conclusions: This case underscores the potential efficiency and safety of combined therapeutic interventions and contributes valuable evidence towards the development of novel treatment strategies for keloids.

Bibliometric study and visual analysis of postoperative diabetes mellitus in kidney transplant recipients based on WoSCC database

BACKGROUND

In recent years, the increase of the post-transplantation diabetes mellitus (PTDM) after renal transplantation encourages people to do a lot of research on the disease. This paper conducted a bibliometric study on PTDM related literature to explore the risk factors of diabetes after kidney transplantation, as well as the current status, hotspots and development trends of PTDM research, so as to provide reference for researchers in related fields.

METHODS

We searched the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database for PTDM literature from January 1, 1990, to August 20, 2023, and used VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and the R package 'bibliometrix' to do bibliometric analysis.

RESULTS

Obesity, 3 months after transplantation tacrolimus concentration >10 ng/mL, temporary hyperglycemia, delayed graft function, acute rejection is specific risk factors related to PTDM in renal transplant recipients. In addition, 74 countries led by China and the United States published 1546 papers, and the number of PTDM-related publications is increasing every year. Primary institutions included the University of California, Los Angeles, Mayo Clinic, University of Oslo, and University of Toronto. The Journal of Transplantation is the most widely read journal in the subject. The authors with the most published literature are Trond Jenssen and Adnan Sharif, and the most cited author is Kasiske BL. Expectations for continued growth in global PTDM research are increasingly high. Future studies will mainly focus on exploring the risk factors of PTDM and identifying new therapeutic approaches and targets.

Inhibition of hepatic gluconeogenesis in type 2 diabetes by metformin: complementary role of nitric oxide

Metformin is the first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes mellitus. Type 2 diabetes mellitus is associated with decreased nitric oxide bioavailability, which has significant metabolic implications, including enhanced insulin secretion and peripheral glucose utilization. Similar to metformin, nitric oxide also inhibits hepatic glucose production, mainly by suppressing gluconeogenesis. This review explores the combined effects of metformin and nitric oxide on hepatic gluconeogenesis and proposes the potential of a hybrid metformin-nitric oxide drug for managing type 2 diabetes mellitus. Both metformin and nitric oxide inhibit gluconeogenesis through overlapping and distinct mechanisms. In hepatic gluconeogenesis, mitochondrial oxaloacetate is exported to the cytoplasm via various pathways, including the malate, direct, aspartate, and fumarate pathways. The effects of nitric oxide and metformin on the exportation of oxaloacetate are complementary; nitric oxide primarily inhibits the malate pathway, while metformin strongly inhibits the fumarate and aspartate pathways. Furthermore, metformin effectively blocks gluconeogenesis from lactate, glycerol, and glutamine, whereas nitric oxide mainly inhibits alanine-induced gluconeogenesis. Additionally, nitric oxide contributes to the adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase-dependent inhibition of gluconeogenesis induced by metformin. The combined use of metformin and nitric oxide offers the potential to mitigate common side effects. For example, lactic acidosis, a known side effect of metformin, is linked to nitric oxide deficiency, while the oxidative and nitrosative stress caused by nitric oxide could be counterbalanced by metformin's enhancement of glutathione. Metformin also amplifies nitric oxide -induced activation of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase. In conclusion, a metformin-nitric oxide hybrid drug can benefit patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus by enhancing the inhibition of hepatic gluconeogenesis, decreasing the required dose of metformin for maintaining optimal glycemia, and lowering the incidence of metformin-associated lactic acidosis.

Indole derivatives ameliorated the methamphetamine-induced depression and anxiety via aryl hydrocarbon receptor along "microbiota-brain" axis

In addition to the high neurotoxicity, depression, and anxiety are the most prominent characteristics of methamphetamine (Meth) withdrawal. Studies to date on the issue of Meth-associated depression and anxiety are focused on the brain, however, whether peripheral homeostasis, especially the "microbiota-gut" axis participates in these adverse outcomes, remains poorly understood. In the current study, with the fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) assay, the mice received microbiota from Meth withdrawal mice displayed marked depression and anxiety behaviors. The 16S rRNA sequencing results showed that Meth withdrawal contributed to a striking reduction of Akkermansia, Bacteroides, Faecalibaculum, Desulfovibrio, and Anaerostipes, which are known to be associated with tryptophan (TRP) metabolism. Noteworthily, the substantial decreases of the indole derivatives from the TRP metabolic pathway, including IAA, IPA, ILA, IET, IArA, IAld, and TRM were observed in the serum of both Meth abusing humans and mice during Meth withdrawal with the UHPLC-MS/MS analysis. Combining the high and low TRP diet mouse model, the mice with high TRP diet obviously impeded Meth-associated depression and anxiety behaviors, and these results were further strengthened by the evidence that administration of IPA, IAA, and indole dramatically ameliorated the Meth induced aberrant behaviors. Importantly, these protective effects were remarkably counteracted in aryl hydrocarbon receptor knockout (AhR KO) mice, underlining the key roles of microbiota-indoles-AhR signaling in Meth-associated depression and anxiety. Collectively, the important contribution of the present work is that we provide the first evidence that peripheral gut homeostasis disturbance but not limited to the brain, plays a key role in driving the Meth-induced depression and anxiety in the periods of withdrawal, especially the microbiota and the indole metabolic disturbance. Therefore, targeting AhR may provide novel insight into the therapeutic strategies for Meth-associated psychological disorders.

Gut microbiota alterations induced by Roux-en-Y gastric bypass result in glucose-lowering by enhancing intestinal glucose excretion

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) results in glucose-lowering in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and may be associated with increased intestinal glucose excretion. However, the contribution of intestinal glucose excretion to glycemic control after RYGB and its underlying mechanisms are not fully elucidated. Here, we confirmed that intestinal glucose excretion significantly increased in obese rats after RYGB, which was negatively correlated with postoperative blood glucose levels. Moreover, we also found that the contribution of Biliopancreatic limb length, an important factor affecting glycemic control after RYGB, to the improvement of glucose metabolism after RYGB attributed to the enhancement of intestinal glucose excretion. Subsequently, we further determined through multiple animal models that intestinal glucose excretion is physiological rather than pathological and plays a crucial role in maintaining glucose homeostasis in the body. Finally, we employed germ-free mice colonized with fecal samples from patients and rats to demonstrate that enhanced intestinal glucose excretion after RYGB is directly modulated by the surgery-induced changes in the gut microbiota. These results indicated that the gut microbiota plays a direct causal role in the hypoglycemic effect of RYGB by promoting intestinal glucose excretion, which may provide new insights for developing gut microbiota-based therapies for T2DM.

A tombus-like virus in patients with lower respiratory tract infection: an observational study based on meta-transcriptomic sequencing

The identification of a novel virus related to the family Tombusviridae, provisionally named human tombus-like virus (hTLV), is significant in the context of ongoing surveillance for respiratory pathogens. Meta-transcriptomic sequencing was utilized to detect respiratory pathogens in patients with lower respiratory tract infections (LRIs) in Jinan, China, from 2022 to 2023. The additional hTLV infections were identified through retrospective analysis of meta-transcriptome data collected in Beijing, China, from 2016 to 2019, prior to the COVID-19 outbreak. Phylogenetic analyzes indicated that hTLVs were clustered with a Jingmen tombus-like virus 2 but in a distinct clade. The hTLVs genomes consist of a single-stranded positive-sense RNA genomes of 4.7-4.8 kb in size, and contained four putative open reading frames (ORF1-4). The RNA-dependent RNA polymerase protein of hTLV shared significant sequence similarity containing three conserved motifs with 15, 24, and 15 amino acids, respectively. The hTLV genome included the canonical Gly376-Asp377-Asp378 (GDD) catalytic residues, which were a unifying feature of viruses in the family Tombusviridae. The main clinical manifestations of the 23 patients were fever, cough, expectoration and dyspnea, with varying degrees of lung infection or abnormalities in other laboratory indicators. Serological studies showed that fourfold rise in IgG titers in sera of a patient between acute and convalescent phase by ELISA. Identification of the pathogens for acute respiratory tract infections is essential for timely public health interventions and clinical management. The discovery of a novel virus, hTLV, in patients with LRIs highlights the continuous emergence of new respiratory pathogens in humans.

Unveiling the ageing-related genes in diagnosing osteoarthritis with metabolic syndrome by integrated bioinformatics analysis and machine learning

Ageing significantly contributes to osteoarthritis (OA) and metabolic syndrome (MetS) pathogenesis, yet the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. This study aimed to identify ageing-related biomarkers in OA patients with MetS. OA and MetS datasets and ageing-related genes (ARGs) were retrieved from public databases. The limma package was used to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs), and weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA) screened gene modules, and machine learning algorithms, such as random forest (RF), support vector machine (SVM), generalised linear model (GLM), and extreme gradient boosting (XGB), were employed. The nomogram and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve assess the diagnostic value, and CIBERSORT analysed immune cell infiltration. We identified 20 intersecting genes among DEGs of OA, key module genes of MetS, and ARGs. By comparing the accuracy of the four machine learning models for disease prediction, the SVM model, which includes CEBPB, PTEN, ARPC1B, PIK3R1, and CDC42, was selected. These hub ARGs not only demonstrated strong diagnostic values based on nomogram data but also exhibited a significant correlation with immune cell infiltration. Building on these findings, we have identified five hub ARGs that are associated with immune cell infiltration and have constructed a nomogram aimed at early diagnosing OA patients with MetS.

Distinctive function of Tetraspanins: Implication in viral infections

Harboring four transmembrane domains in their structural hallmark, Tetraspanins (Tspans) are a family of glycoproteins with pivotal functions in a variety of biological and cellular processes. Through interacting laterally with each other or specific membrane proteins, Tspans organize tetraspanin-enriched microdomains (TEMs), modulating cellular signaling, adhesion, fusion, and proliferation. An abundance of evidence has identified the multiple functions in the progression of cancer as well as the underlying molecular mechanisms. Recently, plenty of studies have focused on the utilities of Tspans by pathogens for infection, especially the infection of viruses. The expression of Tspans correlates with the phase of viral infection, the type of virus, and targeted therapies. In particular, perturbations of Tspans in host cells can affect viral attachment, intracellular trafficking, translation, virus assembly, and release. In this review, we summarize and provide a historical overview of the discovery and characterization of various kinds of virus infection and highlight their diversity and complexity, along with the virus life cycle. Furthermore, we examined the current understanding of how various Tspans are involved in the regulatory mechanisms underlying viral infection. This review aims to offer a comprehensive understanding of the targeting of Tspans for therapeutic intervention in infections caused by diverse pathogens.

Tobacco and alcohol use are the risk factors responsible for the greatest burden of head and neck cancers: a study from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019

BACKGROUND

The risk factors associated with cancers of the larynx, nasopharynx, lips, and oral cavity, as well as other pharyngeal cancers, share many similarities. To better understand how these risk factors manifest differently across various head and neck tumor types, we utilized data from the GBD database to conduct an in-depth analysis.

METHODS

Our study employed the 2019 GBD dataset to scrutinize trends in incidence, mortality, and DALYs related to these cancers. This analysis covered the period from 1990 to 2019 and was stratified by sex, age, geographical region, and the socio-demographic index.

FINDINGS

In 2019, lip and oral cavity cancers were found to have the highest incidence rates, with notably higher ASIRs observed in males compared to females. Interestingly, the ASIRs for laryngeal cancer showed a decreasing trend over the studied time frame from 1990 to 2019. Our findings revealed that smoking posed a significantly greater risk for laryngeal and lip and oral cavity cancers, whereas alcohol consumption was more strongly linked to NPC. Central Europe exhibited the ASDR for laryngeal cancer. For lip and oral cavity cancer, the impact of tobacco chewing on female ASDR was most pronounced in South Asia. In contrast, nasopharyngeal cancer had its highest ASDR in Asia.

CONCLUSION

Our investigation underscores that smoking and alcohol consumption are leading risk factors for cancers of the head and neck, although their effects vary depending on the specific type of cancer, the sex of the patient, age group, and regional demographics. While occupational exposure to carcinogenic substances does not appear to be a predominant factor, it remains an important consideration that should not be overlooked in the comprehensive assessment of risk for these malignancies.

XL888 and pembrolizumab modulate the immune landscape of colorectal tumors in a phase Ib/II clinical trial

We conducted a phase Ib/II clinical trial to evaluate the safety, feasibility, and clinical activity of combining pembrolizumab (anti-PD-1) with XL888 (Hsp90 inhibitor) in patients with advanced colorectal cancer (CRC). We hypothesized that this regimen would modulate soluble and cellular immune mediators and enhance clinical outcomes. The trial employed a 3 + 3 open-label design, with an expansion cohort at the recommended phase II dose (RP2D) in treatment-refractory, mismatch repair-proficient CRC patients. Comprehensive analyses of plasma cytokines, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), and spatial immune cell patterns in liver biopsies were performed to identify unique immune signatures resulting from the combined therapy. The combination of pembrolizumab and XL888 proved to be safe and feasible, with a subset of patients achieving stable disease, although no objective responses were observed in this heavily pre-treated population. Correlative studies revealed immunomodulatory effects in tumors and circulation, including a reduction in IL6+ cells and macrophages (CD68+) within metastatic liver tissue, alterations in blood CD3+ cells, and upregulation of numerous inflammatory plasma cytokines. These findings suggest local and systemic immune activation by the combination of pembrolizumab and XL888. While clinical activity was modest in treatment-refractory CRC patients, there were notable effects on the tumor immune environment and systemic immune modulation.