Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor receptor signaling in severe congenital neutropenia, chronic neutrophilic leukemia, and related malignancies

Changes in gut microbiota predict neutropenia after induction treatment in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia

ABSTRACT

Delayed neutrophil recovery during acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) treatment increases the risk of infection and causes delay in chemotherapy. Emerging evidence implicates gut microbiota in neutrophil reconstitution after chemotherapy. We explored the interplay between the gut microbiota and neutrophil dynamics, including neutrophil chemoattractants, in 51 children with newly diagnosed ALL. Daily absolute neutrophil count (ANC), weekly plasma chemokines (CXCL1 and CXCL8), granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), and fecal samples were monitored until day 29 during ALL induction treatment. Fecal sequencing using 16S ribosomal RNA revealed an overall significant reduction in bacterial diversity and Enterococcus overgrowth throughout the induction treatment. Prolonged neutropenia (ANC <0.5 × 109 cells per L at day 36) and elevated chemokine levels were associated with a decreased abundance of genera from the Ruminococcaceae and Lachnospiraceae families, decreased Veillonella genus, and Enterococcus overgrowth from diagnosis and throughout induction treatment. G-CSF was upregulated in response to neutropenia but was unrelated to microbiota changes. Overall, this study revealed that a diminished abundance of specific intestinal commensals and Enterococcus overgrowth is associated with delayed neutrophil reconstitution and increased chemokine signaling, indicating that disruption of the microbiota may contribute to prolonged neutropenia. These findings lay the groundwork for future investigations into the mechanisms underlying these associations and their clinical implications for developing gut-sparring strategies to minimize the impact of gut dysbiosis on immune recovery.

Early Neutrophil Activation in Psoriatic Skin at Relapse Following Dead Sea Climatotherapy

Psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterised by erythematous and scaly plaques, can be both physically and emotionally distressing for patients. Dead Sea climatotherapy (DSC), a treatment modality combining sun exposure, mineral-rich water and mud therapy during 4 weeks at Ein Gedi, Israel, is used for a small group of patients with psoriasis. This study aimed to investigate the cellular composition of psoriatic skin lesions at relapse after complete clearance from DSC. Skin biopsies from baseline, end of treatment and relapse were collected from eight patients with plaque psoriasis who achieved complete clearance from Dead Sea climatotherapy treatment. These biopsies were subjected to immunohistochemistry, RNA sequencing and quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis (qPCR). Our findings demonstrate that DSC effectively reduces inflammatory markers to levels comparable to baseline non-lesional skin in the short term. The differential expression analysis identified several upregulated differentially expressed genes, including OSM, CXCL8, TREM1, CXCL1, CSF3R, BCL2A1 and CXCL2, in relapsed psoriasis skin compared with baseline lesional skin. These findings were confirmed by qPCR analysis. Pathway enrichment analysis indicated a marked upregulation of neutrophil-associated pathways in relapse skin compared with baseline lesional skin. Immunohistochemical staining for neutrophil markers, such as CD11b, CD15, CD66b, CD207, MPO and NE, showed a non-significant trend towards enhanced neutrophil infiltration and activation at relapse. In conclusion, while DSC provides short-term effectiveness in managing psoriasis, the initial relapse phase is associated with neutrophil activation and migration. Thus, targeting neutrophils early in the psoriasis disease course may disturb the evolution of psoriasis, potentially preventing disease chronicity.

A novel therapeutic strategy for leukopenia: Miltefosine activates the Ras/MEK/ERK pathway to promote neutrophil differentiation

Leukopenia, marked by diminished white blood cell (WBC) counts, presents significant challenges in the management of hematological malignancies and immunocompromised patients. This study evaluated the therapeutic potential of miltefosine (MFS), a phospholipid analogue, for treating leukopenia. In vitro studies using HL60 and NB4 cells revealed that MFS effectively promoted neutrophil differentiation and function, evidenced by the upregulation of surface markers CD11b, CD11c, CD14, and CD15, as well as enhanced bactericidal activity assessed through the NBT reduction assay. In a murine model of irradiation-induced leukopenia, MFS significantly restored both WBC and neutrophil counts, promoted neutrophil production, improved bone marrow (BM) cell proliferation, and mitigated radiation-induced apoptosis of BM cells while promoting the recovery of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). Transcriptomic analyses indicated that MFS mediated the regulation of key pathways, particularly the MAPK signaling pathway, which is vital for myeloid differentiation. A comprehensive integration of network pharmacology and RNA sequencing data identified common targets linking MFS to leukopenia, underscoring the critical role of the Ras/MEK/ERK signaling cascade in mediating MFS's effects. Furthermore, molecular docking and Western blot analyses confirmed MFS's interaction with and activation of Ras/MEK/ERK pathway, essential for facilitating neutrophil differentiation. Notably, pharmacological inhibition of ERK significantly diminished MFS-induced neutrophil differentiation. Collectively, these findings elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying MFS-mediated therapy for leukopenia and provide a solid foundation for future clinical investigations.

Structural diversity and function of the granulocyte colony-stimulating factor in medaka fish

Diversity in the granulocyte repertoire, including neutrophils, basophils, and eosinophils, has been reported in vertebrate species. Medaka fish (Oryzias latipes) have only neutrophils; however, the storage pool of granulopoiesis tissues and the molecular mechanism of granulopoiesis in medaka fish have not been explored. Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) is a cytokine responsible for neutrophil differentiation, survival, and proliferation. We performed in silico analysis to molecularly characterize the medaka G-CSF and G-CSF receptor (G-CSFR) genes. This study showed that medaka G-CSF differs considerably from human and mouse G-CSF in terms of the primary protein structure; however, the predicted tertiary structure was largely conserved. Analyses of lipopolysaccharide stimulation and G-CSF knockout and overexpression in medaka revealed that G-CSF mobilizes neutrophils into the peripheral blood. The analysis of G-CSF-deficient medaka revealed that G-CSF is involved in erythropoiesis. These findings represent an important first step toward understanding granulocyte hematopoiesis in nonmammalian species.

Distribution and clinicopathological characteristics of G-CSF expression in tumor cells and stromal cells in upper tract urothelial carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Urothelial carcinoma (UC) is a common type of malignant disease; however, the diagnostic and prognostic markers of upper urinary tract urothelial cancer (UTUC) remain poorly understood because of its rarity.

METHODS

To clarify the clinicopathological significance of granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) in UTUC, we analyzed the expression and distribution of G-CSF in 112 upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) samples with immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

In normal urothelium, G-CSF expression was weak or absent, whereas high expression of G-CSF was observed in UTUC tissues, both in tumor cells (TCs) and stromal cells (SCs). G-CSF expression in the TCs and SCs was associated with nodular/flat morphology, high grade, advanced T stage, and lymphovascular invasion in UTUC. G-CSF expression in SCs was associated with poor prognosis and was an independent prognostic factor. Public data showed that G-CSF expression was also associated with decreased progression-free survival and disease-specific survival. A prognostic model was constructed by incorporating the presence or absence of G-CSF expression along with clinicopathologic factors, which allowed for a more accurate prediction of poor prognosis. We further showed that G-CSF expression was associated with a high Ki-67 labeling index and with PD-L1, HER2, and p53 expression in UTUC.

CONCLUSION

G-CSF expression in TCs and SCs may play a crucial role in UTUC tumor progression. Notably, stromal G-CSF expression showed significant prognostic value, even when compared to major clinicopathological factors, suggesting that the evaluation of G-CSF expression may contribute to clinical decision-making in patients with UTUC.

Genomic Insights into Host Susceptibility to Periprosthetic Joint Infections: A Comprehensive Literature Review

Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a multifactorial disease, and the risk of contracting infection is determined by the complex interplays between environmental and host-related factors. While research has shown that certain individuals may have a genetic predisposition for PJI, the existing literature is scarce, and the heterogeneity in the assessed genes limits its clinical applicability. Our review on genetic susceptibility for PJI has the following two objectives: (1) Explore the potential risk of developing PJI based on specific genetic polymorphisms or allelic variations; and (2) Characterize the regulatory cascades involved in the risk of developing PJI. This review focused on clinical studies investigating the association between genetic mutations or variations with the development of PJI. The genes investigated in these studies included toll-like receptors and humoral pattern recognition molecules, cytokines, chemokines, mannose-binding lectin (MBL), bone metabolism molecules, and human leukocyte antigen. Among these genes, polymorphisms in IL-1, MBL, vitamin D receptors, HLA-C, and HLA-DQ might have a relevant impact on the development of PJI. The literature surrounding this topic is limited, but emerging transcriptomic and genome-wide association studies hold promise for identifying at-risk genes. This advancement could pave the way for incorporating genetic testing into preoperative risk stratification, enhancing personalized patient care.

Systems Immunology Approaches to Understanding Immune Responses in Acute Infection of Yellow Fever Patients

In the 2018 yellow fever (YF) outbreak in Brazil, we generated new transcriptomic data and combined it with clinical and immunological data to decode the pathogenesis of YF. Analyzing 79 patients, we found distinct gene expression patterns between acute YF, other viral infections, and the milder YF-17D vaccine infection. We identified a critical role for low-density, immature neutrophils in severe outcomes, marked by the downregulation of genes essential for neutrophil migration and maturation, such as PADI4, CSF3R, and ICAM1, in deceased patients. Our study also revealed complex interactions among inflammation-related genes, including increased CXCL10 and IL1R2 expression and decreased IL-1b expression in the acute phase. The diminished expression of HLA class II genes indicates impaired antigen presentation. These findings highlight the delicate balance of immune responses in YF pathogenesis and lay the groundwork for future therapeutic and diagnostic advancements.

Old drug, new use: Recent advances for G-CSF

Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), also known as colony-stimulating factor 3 (CSF3), is a proinflammatory cytokine that primarily stimulates the survival, proliferation, differentiation and function of neutrophil granulocyte progenitor cells and mature neutrophils. Over the past years, G-CSF has mainly been used to cure patients with neutropenia and as a part of chemotherapy to induct the remission for refractory/relapse leukemia. Recent studies showed that C-CSF can been used as condition regimens and as a part of preventive methods after allogeneic transplantation to improve the survival of patients and also has immunoregulation, and has promote or inhibit the proliferation of solid tumors. Therefore, in this review, we firstly describe the structure for G-CSF. Then its functions and mechanism were reviewed including the neutrophil mobilization, differentiation, migration, and inhibiting apoptosis of neutrophils, and its immunoregulation. Finally, the clinical applications were further discussed.

A strategy to design protein-based antagonists against type I cytokine receptors

Excessive cytokine signaling resulting from dysregulation of a cytokine or its receptor can be a main driver of cancer, autoimmune, or hematopoietic disorders. Here, we leverage protein design to create tailored cytokine receptor blockers with idealized properties. Specifically, we aimed to tackle the granulocyte-colony stimulating factor receptor (G-CSFR), a mediator of different types of leukemia and autoinflammatory diseases. By modifying designed G-CSFR binders, we engineered hyper-stable proteins that function as nanomolar signaling antagonists. X-ray crystallography showed atomic-level agreement with the experimental structure of an exemplary design. Furthermore, the most potent design blocks G-CSFR in acute myeloid leukemia cells and primary human hematopoietic stem cells. Thus, the resulting designs can be used for inhibiting or homing to G-CSFR-expressing cells. Our results also demonstrate that similarly designed cytokine mimics can be used to derive antagonists to tackle other type I cytokine receptors.

Hereditary chronic neutrophilic leukemia in a four-generation family without transformation to acute leukemia

Chronic neutrophilic leukemia (CNL) is a rare myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN) characterized by peripheral blood neutrophilia, marrow granulocyte hyperplasia, hepatosplenomegaly, and driver mutations in the colony-stimulating factor 3 receptor (CSF3R). Designation of activating CSF3R mutations as a defining genomic abnormality for CNL has led to increased recognition of the disease. However, the natural history of CNL remains poorly understood with most patients reported being of older age, lacking germline data, and having poor survival, in part due to transformation to acute leukemia. CSF3R driver mutations in most patients with CNL have been reported to be acquired, although rare cases of germline mutations have been described. Here, we report the largest pedigree to date with familial CNL, spanning four generations with affected family members ranging in age from 4 to 53 years, none of whom have transformed to acute leukemia. A heterozygous T618I CSF3R mutation was identified in peripheral blood and mesenchymal stromal cells from the proband and in all affected living family members, while the unaffected family members tested were homozygous wild type. We show that the T618I mutation also confers a survival advantage to neutrophils in an MCL1-dependent manner. Collectively, these data provide additional insights into the natural history of familial CNL arising from T618I CSF3R mutations and suggest that enhanced neutrophil survival also contributes to the high neutrophil count observed in patients with CNL.

Oral health management in children with severe congenital neutropenia with periodontitis: Case report

RATIONALE

Severe congenital neutropenia (SCN) is a rare and heterogeneous genetic disease. By describing the diagnosis and treatment of a child with SCN and periodontitis, this case provides a reference for the oral health management of a child with SCN and periodontitis.

PATIENT CONCERNS

We describe a boy with clinical manifestations of oral bleeding, neutropenia, recurrent fever, and other recurrent infections. The absolute neutrophil count (ANC) was <0.50 × 109/L most of the time. Morphological examination of bone marrow cells showed active granulocyte hyperplasia and dysmaturation.

DIAGNOSES

According to the clinical manifestations, hematological examination and gene detection results, the child was diagnosed as SCN with chronic periodontitis.

INTERVENTIONS

Periodontal treatment was performed after informed consent was obtained from the child guardian. These included supragingival and subgingival cleaning, hydrogen peroxide and saline irrigation, placement of iodoglycerin in the gingival sulcus, and oral hygiene instruction. Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) was performed later.

OUTCOMES

One month after initial periodontal treatment, oral hygiene was well maintained and gingival swelling had subsided. Probing depth (PD) index on periodontal probing and bleeding was significantly reduced. However, there was no significant change in blood routine and other indicators before and after periodontal treatment.

CONCLUSION

Once SCN is diagnosed, individualized treatment plans can be developed according to the characteristics of the disease and its impact on oral health, which can effectively control the interaction between SCN and periodontal disease and reduce the occurrence of serious infection.

CSF3R mutated myeloid neoplasms: Beyond chronic neutrophilic leukemia

CSF3R activating mutation is a genetic hallmark of chronic neutrophilic leukemia (CNL), and is also present in a subset of atypical chronic myeloid leukemia (aCML), but infrequent in other myeloid neoplasms. However, the occurrence of CSF3R mutations in various myeloid neoplasms is not well studied. Here we evaluate the spectrum of CSF3R mutations and the clinicopathologic features of CSF3R mutated myeloid neoplasms. We retrospectively identified CSF3R mutations in a variety of myeloid neoplasms: two CNL, three atypical chronic myeloid leukemia (aCML), nine acute myeloid leukemia (AML), one chronic myelomonocytic leukemia, and one myeloproliferative neoplasm. The prototypic T618I mutation was found in 50% of cases: CNL (2/2), aCML (2/3) and AML (4/9). We observed a new recurrent CSF3R mutation Q776* in 25% of cases, and a potential-germline mutation in a 20-year-old patient. Co-occurring mutations were often in epigenetic modifier and spliceosome. IDH/RUNX1 and tumor suppressor mutations were frequent in AML but absent in CNL/aCML. All CNL/aCML patients succumbed within 2-years of diagnosis. We demonstrate that CSF3R mutations are not restricted to CNL. CNL and aCML show similar clinicopathologic and molecular features, suggesting that CNL may be best classified as myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative neoplasm rather than myeloproliferative neoplasm.

Upregulation of MMPs in placentas of patients with gestational diabetes mellitus: Involvement of the PI3K/Akt pathway

In recent years, there has been a notable rise in the incidence of pregnancies complicated by gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), characterized by glucose intolerance first identified during pregnancy. Analysis of placental tissue has revealed that placentas from women with GDM tend to be larger and heavier compared to control placentas, indicating potential changes in trophoblast proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. In this study, transcriptome sequencing was conducted on placentas obtained from both normal pregnancies and pregnancies with GDM to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying this condition. The original sequencing data were subjected to sequencing analysis, resulting in the identification of 935 upregulated genes and 256 downregulated genes. The KEGG and GO analysis techniques on differential genes uncovered evidence suggesting that the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling pathway may contribute to the pathogenesis of GDM. Subsequent analysis indicated that the expression levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) 11, MMP12, MMP14, and MMP15, which are regulated by the PI3K/Akt pathway, were upregulated in the placentas of patients with GDM when compared to those of individuals with normal placental function. Additionally, our investigation into alternative splicing patterns revealed an increase in exon skipping alternative splicing of CSF3R in the placenta of patients with GDM compared to that in the control group. The CSF3R-PI3K-MMP pathway is speculated to regulate the pathogenesis of GDM.

CSF3R as a potential prognostic biomarker and immunotherapy target in glioma

Introduction

Gliomas are the most common malignant brain tumors, with complicated etiology and poor prognosis. However, there is still a lack of specific biomarkers for the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis assessment for glioma patients. Hence, the purpose of this study was to screen biomarkers for prognostic assessment and therapeutic interventions in gliomas.

Material and methods

We utilized The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA) databases to investigate the role of colony-stimulating factor 3 receptor (CSF3R) in glioma. Data analysis was conducted using R, GEPIA 2, TISCH and DepMap.

Results

CSF3R was up-regulated in glioma and associated with the clinical pathological features of the patients. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis indicated a significant association between the expression of CSF3R and prognosis in patients. Univariate and multivariate Cox analyses revealed that patients with high expression of CSF3R have a worse prognosis, and the expression of CSF3R was an independent prognostic factor in gliomas. The nomogram constructed based on the expression of CSF3R demonstrated lower 1-, 3-, and 5-year overall survival (OS) in patients with high CSF3R expression. The biological functional analysis of CSF3R demonstrated its association with various immune regulatory signals. Furthermore, CSF3R was linked to the expression of immune checkpoints and resistance to immunotherapy. Notably, CSF3R was predominantly detected in monocytes/macrophages.

Conclusions

Our study suggested that CSF3R might potentially function as an independent prognostic factor for glioma and hold promise as a biomarker and target for immunotherapy in glioma.

Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor-Mobilized Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells: An Alternative Cellular Source for Chimeric Antigen Receptor Therapy

Lymphocyte collection by apheresis for CAR-T production usually does not include blood mobilized using granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) due to the widespread knowledge that it causes a decrease in the number and functionality of lymphocytes. However, it is used for stem cell transplant, which is a common treatment for hematological malignancies. The growing demand for CAR therapies (CAR-T and NK-CAR), both in research and clinics, makes it necessary to evaluate whether mobilized PBSC products may be potential candidates for use in such therapies. This review collects recent works that experimentally verify the role and functionality of T and NK lymphocytes and the generation of CAR-T from apheresis after G-CSF mobilization. As discussed, T cells do not vary significantly in their phenotype, the ratio of CD4+ and CD8+ remains constant, and the different sub-populations remain stable. In addition, the expansion and proliferation rates are invariant regardless of mobilization with G-CSF as well as the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines and the cytotoxic ability. Therefore, cells mobilized before apheresis are postulated as a new alternative source of T cells for adoptive therapies that will serve to alleviate high demand, increase availability, and take advantage of the substantial number of existing cryopreserved products.

miR-26a-5p inhibits the proliferation of psoriasis-like keratinocytes in vitro and in vivo by dual interference with the CDC6/CCNE1 axis

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory proliferative dermatological ailment that currently lacks a definitive cure. Employing data mining techniques, this study identified a collection of substantially downregulated miRNAs (top 10). Notably, 32 targets were implicated in both the activation of the IL-17 signaling pathway and cell cycle dysregulation. In silico analysis revealed that one of these miRNAs, miR-26a-5p, is a highly conserved cross-species miRNA. Strikingly, the miR-26a-5p sequences in humans and mice are identical, and mmu-miR-26a-5p was found to target the same 7 cell cycle targets as its human counterpart, hsa-miR-26a-5p. Among these targets, CDC6 and CCNE1 were the most effective targets of miR-26a-5p, which was further validated in vitro using a dual luciferase reporter system and qPCR assay. The therapeutic assessment of miR-26a-5p revealed its remarkable efficacy in inhibiting the proliferation and G1/S transition of keratinocytes (HaCaT and HEKs) in vitro. In vivo experiments corroborated these findings, demonstrating that miR-26a-5p effectively suppressed imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriasis-like skin lesions in mice over an 8-day treatment period. Histological analysis via H&E staining revealed that miR-26a-5p treatment resulted in reduced keratinocyte thickness and immune cell infiltration into the spleens of IMQ-treated mice. Mechanistic investigations revealed that miR-26a-5p induced a cascade of downregulated genes associated with the IL-23/IL-17A axis, which is known to be critical in psoriasis pathogenesis, while concomitantly suppressing CDC6 and CCNE1 expression. These findings were corroborated by qPCR and Western blot analyses. Collectively, our study provides compelling evidence supporting the therapeutic potential of miR-26a-5p as a safe and reliable endogenous small nucleic acid for the treatment of psoriasis.

Yangyinghuoxue decoction exerts a treatment effect on hepatic fibrosis by PI3K/AKT pathway in rat model: based on the network pharmacology and molecular docking

BACKGROUND

Yangyinghuoxue decoction (YYHXD) is a Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) compound with satisfactory clinical efficacy in the treatment of hepatic fibrosis (HF). However, the pharmacological molecular mechanisms of YYHXD in the treatment of hepatic fibrosis have not yet been clarified.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the pharmacological mechanisms of YYHXD for the treatment of hepatic fibrosis via network pharmacology analysis combined with experimental verification.

METHODS

First, the bioactive ingredients and potential targets of YYHXD and HF-related targets were retrieved from the online databases and literatures. Next, the "herb-ingredient-target-disease" network and PPI network were constructed for topological analyses and key active compounds and targets screening. Enrichment analyses were performed to identify the critical biological processes and signaling pathways. Then, the molecular docking experiment was performed to initially validate the network pharmacology prediction results. Finally, the antifibrotic effect and pharmacological mechanisms of YYHXD were investigated in CCl4 induced liver fibrosis in rats.

RESULTS

In total, 141 active compounds in YYHXD, 637 YYHXD-related targets and 1598 liver fibrosis-related targets were identified. Among them, 69 overlapped targets were finally obtained. Network analysis screened 5 critical bioactive components and 34 key targets. Functional enrichment analysis indicated that YYHXD obviously influenced biological processes such as oxidative stress, cellular inflammation and hepatocyte apoptosis and signaling pathways such as PI3K-Akt, Apoptosis, and JAK-STAT in the treatment of HF. The molecular docking results suggested that the YYHXD may have a direct impact on the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. Further, in vivo experiment indicated that YYHXD treatment not only reduced liver injury and protected liver function, but also decrease the apoptosis of hepatic parenchyma cells, reducing inflammatory and attenuating oxidative stress. Moreover, YYHXD significantly attenuated the upregulation of target proteins enriched in PI3K signaling pathway, including P-PI3K, P-Akt1, HSP90, MYC, p53.

CONCLUSIONS

The mechanisms of YYHXD against liver fibrosis were involved in multiple ingredients, multiple targets and multiple signaling pathways. The PI3K/Akt pathway could be the most important pharmacological mechanism of YYHXD therapy for liver fibrosis.

Expression, Purification, and Biological Evaluation of XTEN-GCSF in a Neutropenic Rat Model

Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (GCSF) stimulates the proliferation of neutrophils but it has low serum half-life. Therefore, the present study was done to investigate the effect of XTENylation on biological activity, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of GCSF in a neutropenic rat model. XTEN tag was genetically fused to the N-terminal region of GCSF-encoding gene fragment and subcloned into pET28a expression vector. The cytoplasmic expressed recombinant protein was characterized through intrinsic fluorescence spectroscopy (IFS), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and size exclusion chromatography (SEC). In vitro biological activity of the XTEN-GCSF protein was evaluated on NFS60 cell line. Hematopoietic properties and pharmacokinetics were also investigated in a neutropenic rat model. An approximately 140 kDa recombinant protein was detected on SDS-PAGE. Dynamic light scattering and size exclusion chromatography confirmed the increase in hydrodynamic diameter of GCSF molecule after XTENylation. GCSF derivatives showed efficacy in proliferation of NFS60 cell line among which the XTEN-GCSF represented the lowest EC50 value (100.6 pg/ml). Pharmacokinetic studies on neutropenic rats revealed that XTEN polymer could significantly increase protein serum half-life in comparison with the commercially available GCSF molecules. PEGylated and XTENylated GCSF proteins were more effective in stimulation of neutrophils compared to the GCSF molecule alone. XTENylation of GCSF represented promising results in in vitro and in vivo studies. This approach can be a potential alternative to PEGylation strategies for increasing serum half-life of protein.

A metabolic perspective of the neutrophil life cycle: new avenues in immunometabolism

Neutrophils are the most abundant innate immune cells. Multiple mechanisms allow them to engage a wide range of metabolic pathways for biosynthesis and bioenergetics for mediating biological processes such as development in the bone marrow and antimicrobial activity such as ROS production and NET formation, inflammation and tissue repair. We first discuss recent work on neutrophil development and functions and the metabolic processes to regulate granulopoiesis, neutrophil migration and trafficking as well as effector functions. We then discuss metabolic syndromes with impaired neutrophil functions that are influenced by genetic and environmental factors of nutrient availability and usage. Here, we particularly focus on the role of specific macronutrients, such as glucose, fatty acids, and protein, as well as micronutrients such as vitamin B3, in regulating neutrophil biology and how this regulation impacts host health. A special section of this review primarily discusses that the ways nutrient deficiencies could impact neutrophil biology and increase infection susceptibility. We emphasize biochemical approaches to explore neutrophil metabolism in relation to development and functions. Lastly, we discuss opportunities and challenges to neutrophil-centered therapeutic approaches in immune-driven diseases and highlight unanswered questions to guide future discoveries.

Achieving white blood cell equity: are the safety profiles of biosimilar and reference pegfilgrastims comparable?

Biosimilars can provide choices for patients and may provide cost savings; however, their uptake has been slow in the USA, in part due to limited knowledge. To provide additional confidence in US pegfilgrastim biosimilars, this narrative review compared the safety profiles of biosimilar pegfilgrastims, currently approved or filed for approval in the USA, with the EU- and US-approved reference pegfilgrastims. Headache and bone pain were common to biosimilars and reference products and occurred at a similar incidence. Clinical trial data on the safety profiles of biosimilar pegfilgrastims and reference products have demonstrated similarity and comparability, with no unexpected safety outcomes. Overall, the safety profiles of biosimilar pegfilgrastims and reference pegfilgrastims demonstrated a high degree of similarity and comparability.

Congenital neutropenia: From lab bench to clinic bedside and back

Neutropenia is a hematological condition characterized by a decrease in absolute neutrophil count (ANC) in peripheral blood, typically classified in adults as mild (1-1.5 × 109/L), moderate (0.5-1 × 109/L), or severe (< 0.5 × 109/L). It can be categorized into two types: congenital and acquired. Congenital severe chronic neutropenia (SCN) arises from mutations in various genes, with different inheritance patterns, including autosomal recessive, autosomal dominant, and X-linked forms, often linked to mitochondrial diseases. The most common genetic cause is alterations in the ELANE gene. Some cases exist as non-syndromic neutropenia within the SCN spectrum, where genetic origins remain unidentified. The clinical consequences of congenital neutropenia depend on granulocyte levels and dysfunction. Infants with this condition often experience recurrent bacterial infections, with approximately half facing severe infections within their first six months of life. These infections commonly affect the respiratory system, digestive tract, and skin, resulting in symptoms like fever, abscesses, and even sepsis. The severity of these symptoms varies, and the specific organs and systems affected depend on the genetic defect. Congenital neutropenia elevates the risk of developing acute myeloid leukemia (AML) or myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), particularly with certain genetic variants. SCN patients may acquire CSF3R and RUNX1 mutations, which can predict the development of leukemia. It is important to note that high-dose granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) treatment may have the potential to promote leukemogenesis. Treatment for neutropenia involves antibiotics, drugs that boost neutrophil production, or bone marrow transplants. Immediate treatment is essential due to the heightened risk of severe infections. In severe congenital or cyclic neutropenia (CyN), the primary therapy is G-CSF, often combined with antibiotics. The G-CSF dosage is gradually increased to normalize neutrophil counts. Hematopoietic stem cell transplants are considered for non-responders or those at risk of AML/MDS. In cases of WHIM syndrome, CXCR4 inhibitors can be effective. Future treatments may involve gene editing and the use of the diabetes drug empagliflozin to alleviate neutropenia symptoms.

Higher 13-Gene-Estimated TMB Detected from Plasma ctDNA is Associated with Worse Outcome for T-Cell Lymphoma Patients

Exome sequencing of in situ tumor samples reveals that mutated genes can predict the prognosis of patients with T-cell lymphoma (TCL). However, how tumor mutation burden (TMB) derived from circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) may stratify TCL patients remains unclear.The plasma ctDNA of 79 newly diagnosed TCL patients from the clinical center is used for targeted exome sequencing, and the exome data of 4035 TCL patients from the Catalogue of Somatic Mutations in Cancer (COSMIC) database is obtained for comparison analysis.TCL patients with higher TMB, as evaluated with a panel of 120 genes (panel-TMB120), are associated with poor prognosis. More importantly, COX regression analysis identifies a subset of 13 genes in panel-TMB120, including AP3B1 (Adaptor related protein complex 3 subunit beta 1), ATM (Ataxia-telangiectasia mutated), BCL6 (B cell lymphoma 6), BRAF (B-Raf proto-oncogene, serine/threonine kinase), CDKN2B (Cyclin dependent kinase inhibitor 2B), EPCAM (Epithelial cell adhesion molecule), FBXO11 (F-box protein 11), JAK1 (Janus kinase 1), MDM2 (Murine double minute 2), NF1 (Neurofibromin 1), STAT5B (Signal transducer and activator of transcription 5B), STAT6 (Signal transducer and activator of transcription 6), and TET2 (Tet methylcytosine dioxygenase 2), which are significantly associated with prognosis. Specifically, higher TMB values calculated with these 13 genes (panel-TMB13) are able to significantly predict unfavorable prognosis for these patients. Together, panel-TMB13 and the International Prognostic Index (IPI) are used for risk stratification.Panel-TMB13 is identified, which can predict poor prognosis for TCL patients carrying higher panel-TMB13 scores and suggest that panel-TMB13 may be a potential biomarker for supplement risk stratification of TCL patients.

Germline CSF3R Variant in Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia: Linking Genetic Predisposition to Uncommon Hemorrhagic Symptoms

Chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) is a hematological neoplasm characterized by monocytosis, splenomegaly, thrombocytopenia, and anemia. Moreover, it is associated with SRSF2 mutations and, rarely, with CSF3R variants. We present the case of an 84-year-old patient with persistent anemia and monocytosis. Due to the presence of dysmorphic granulocytes, monocyte atypia, and myeloid precursors in the peripheral blood cells, the patient was subjected to a bone marrow examination. The diagnosis was consistent with CMML type 2. The Hemocoagulative test showed an increase in fibrinolysis markers. Next-generation targeted sequencing showed TET2 and SRSF2 mutations, along with an unexpected CSF3R germline missense variant, rarely encountered in CMML. The patient started Azacitidine treatment and achieved normal hemostatic process values. In conclusion, we identified a heterozygous germline mutation that, together with TET2 and SRSF2 variants, was responsible for the hemorrhagic manifestation.

JAK/STAT blockade reverses the malignant phenotype of Hodgkin and Reed-Sternberg cells

Constitutive activation of the JAK/STAT pathway is a common phenomenon in classic Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL). The clinical potential of anti-JAK/STAT therapy is being explored in early-stage clinical trials. Notwithstanding, very little information is available about the complex biological consequences of this blockade. Here, we investigated the effects of JAK/STAT pharmacological inhibition on cHL cell models using ruxolitinib, a JAK 1/2 inhibitor that induces apoptosis by concentration- and time-dependent mechanisms. An unbiased whole-transcriptome approach identified expression of the anti-GCSF receptor (CSF3R) as a potential surrogate biomarker of JAK/STAT overactivation. In addition, longitudinal gene expression analyses provided further mechanistic information about pertinent biological pathways involved, including 37 gene pathways distributed in 3 main clusters: cluster 1 was characterized by upregulation of the G2/M checkpoint and major histocompatibility complex-related clusters; 2 additional clusters (2 and 3) showed a progressive downregulation of the tumor-promoting inflammation signatures: JAK/STAT and interleukin 1 (IL-1)/IL-4/IL-13/IL-17. Together, our results confirm the therapeutic potential of JAK/STAT inhibitors in cHL, identify CSF3R as a new biomarker, and provide supporting genetic data and mechanistic understanding.

Extremely rare chronic neutrophilic leukemia characterized by unrelieved abdominal distention and swollen painful limbs: new clinical insight

The pathogenesis of hematological tumors has not been fully elucidated. The academic community believes that genetic mutation abnormalities play a crucial role in the occurrence and development of hematological malignancies. Chronic neutrophilic leukemia (CNL) is a rare hematological tumor in the world. It is characterized by a Philadelphia chromosome BCR-ABL1-negative myeloproliferative tumor. It can be accompanied by mutations in various genes. Colony-stimulating factor 3 receptor (CSF3R) is a classic mutation in CNL and is included in the diagnostic criteria for CNL. This article described a 46-year-old male patient who came to the hospital with non-specific clinical manifestations such as unrelieved abdominal distension and edema of both lower extremities as the primary symptoms. The middle-aged male patient was provided with a peripheral a routine blood test. The biochemical tests revealed abnormalities. A bone marrow biopsy was performed to complete various tests such as bone marrow morphology, immunology, molecular biology, cytogenetics, and imaging. He was diagnosed with a rare chronic neutrophilic leukemia. After the diagnosis, the patient took ruxolitinib orally targeted therapy as prescribed by the doctor. Doctors regularly reviewed the peripheral blood examination and bone marrow status. The current condition is well controlled. CNL is extremely rare. The disease usually has non-specific clinical features and manifestations as the primary symptoms. These symptoms can easily be missed or lead to misdiagnosed ailments by clinicians. It is necessary to increase the awareness and vigilance of CNL.

Mutational screens highlight glycosylation as a modulator of colony-stimulating factor 3 receptor (CSF3R) activity

The colony-stimulating factor 3 receptor (CSF3R) controls the growth of neutrophils, the most abundant type of white blood cell. In healthy neutrophils, signaling is dependent on CSF3R binding to its ligand, CSF3. A single amino acid mutation in CSF3R, T618I, instead allows for constitutive, ligand-independent cell growth and leads to a rare type of cancer called chronic neutrophilic leukemia. However, the disease mechanism is not well understood. Here, we investigated why this threonine to isoleucine substitution is the predominant mutation in chronic neutrophilic leukemia and how it leads to uncontrolled neutrophil growth. Using protein domain mapping, we demonstrated that the single CSF3R domain containing residue 618 is sufficient for ligand-independent activity. We then applied an unbiased mutational screening strategy focused on this domain and found that activating mutations are enriched at sites normally occupied by asparagine, threonine, and serine residues-the three amino acids which are commonly glycosylated. We confirmed glycosylation at multiple CSF3R residues by mass spectrometry, including the presence of GalNAc and Gal-GalNAc glycans at WT threonine 618. Using the same approach applied to other cell surface receptors, we identified an activating mutation, S489F, in the interleukin-31 receptor alpha chain. Combined, these results suggest a role for glycosylated hotspot residues in regulating receptor signaling, mutation of which can lead to ligand-independent, uncontrolled activity and human disease.

Advances in molecular evaluation of myeloproliferative neoplasms

Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) are a group of clonal hematopoietic stem cell disorders with uncontrolled proliferation of one or more hematopoietic cell types, including myeloid, erythroid and megakaryocytic lineages, and minimal defect in maturation. Most MPN are associated with well-defined molecular abnormalities involving genes that encode protein tyrosine kinases that lead to constitutive activation of the downstream signal transduction pathways and confer cells proliferative and survival advantage. Genome-wide sequencing analyses have discovered secondary cooperating mutations that are shared by most of the MPN subtypes as well as other myeloid neoplasms and play a major role in disease progression. Without appropriate management, the natural history of most MPN consists of an initial chronic phase and a terminal blast phase. Molecular aberrations involving protein tyrosine kinases have been used for the diagnosis, classification, detection of minimal/measurable residual disease, and target therapy. We review recent advances in molecular genetic aberrations in MPN with a focus on MPN associated with gene rearrangements or mutations involving tyrosine kinase pathways.

FCGR2A as one novel potential target for poor survival prognosis of clear cell renal cell carcinoma

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is the most common type of renal cell carcinoma. Immunoglobulin FcγRIIa receptor (FCGR2A) has been implicated in various cancers, however, its role on ccRCC is not well studied. A total of 151 patients with ccRCC were recruited for the study. Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was performed to calculate the hazard radios of FCGR2A expression and tumor characteristics. Pathological changes associated with ccRCC in tumor tissue sections were analyzed by hematoxylin-eosin staining. Immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence staining were used to detect the protein expression of FCGR2A in the tissue sections. Correlation between the expression of FCGR2A and the overall survival (OS) of ccRCC patients was analyzed by biological process neural network and support vector machine. The expression of FCGR2A was significantly correlated with the TNM of tumor, family history of ccRCC and Fuhrman stage of ccRCC. Patients with high FCGR2A expression in the tumor tissue, had poorer OS than the patients with low and moderate FCGR2A expression. The Receiver operating characteristic curve showed that FCGR2A can be used as a sensitive and specific biomarker for the diagnosis of ccRCC. Western blotting revealed that the FCGR2A was expressed at higher levels in the ccRCC tissues. Biological process neural network and support vector machine fitting showed that the R2 between FCGR2A and survival time of ccRCC patients was 0.8429 and 0.7669, respectively. FCGR2A is highly expressed in ccRCC, higher expression of FCGR2A is associated with poorer OS of ccRCC.

In Vitro Human Haematopoietic Stem Cell Expansion and Differentiation

The haematopoietic system plays an essential role in our health and survival. It is comprised of a range of mature blood and immune cell types, including oxygen-carrying erythrocytes, platelet-producing megakaryocytes and infection-fighting myeloid and lymphoid cells. Self-renewing multipotent haematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and a range of intermediate haematopoietic progenitor cell types differentiate into these mature cell types to continuously support haematopoietic system homeostasis throughout life. This process of haematopoiesis is tightly regulated in vivo and primarily takes place in the bone marrow. Over the years, a range of in vitro culture systems have been developed, either to expand haematopoietic stem and progenitor cells or to differentiate them into the various haematopoietic lineages, based on the use of recombinant cytokines, co-culture systems and/or small molecules. These approaches provide important tractable models to study human haematopoiesis in vitro. Additionally, haematopoietic cell culture systems are being developed and clinical tested as a source of cell products for transplantation and transfusion medicine. This review discusses the in vitro culture protocols for human HSC expansion and differentiation, and summarises the key factors involved in these biological processes.

Novel Insights into the Role of Kras in Myeloid Differentiation: Engaging with Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling

Cells of the HL-60 myeloid leukemia cell line can be differentiated into neutrophil-like cells by treatment with dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). The molecular mechanisms involved in this differentiation process, however, remain unclear. This review focuses on the differentiation of HL-60 cells. Although the Ras proteins, a group of small GTP-binding proteins, are ubiquitously expressed and highly homologous, each has specific molecular functions. Kras was shown to be essential for normal mouse development, whereas Hras and Nras are not. Kras knockout mice develop profound hematopoietic defects, indicating that Kras is required for hematopoiesis in adults. The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway plays a crucial role in regulating the homeostasis of hematopoietic cells. The protein β-catenin is a key player in the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. A great deal of evidence shows that the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is deregulated in malignant tumors, including hematological malignancies. Wild-type Kras acts as a tumor suppressor during DMSO-induced differentiation of HL-60 cells. Upon DMSO treatment, Kras translocates to the plasma membrane, and its activity is enhanced. Inhibition of Kras attenuates CD11b expression. DMSO also elevates levels of GSK3β phosphorylation, resulting in the release of unphosphorylated β-catenin from the β-catenin destruction complex and its accumulation in the cytoplasm. The accumulated β-catenin subsequently translocates into the nucleus. Inhibition of Kras attenuates Lef/Tcf-sensitive transcription activity. Thus, upon treatment of HL-60 cells with DMSO, wild-type Kras reacts with the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, thereby regulating the granulocytic differentiation of HL-60 cells. Wild-type Kras and the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway are activated sequentially, increasing the levels of expression of C/EBPα, C/EBPε, and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) receptor.

Leukemia-associated truncation of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor receptor impacts granulopoiesis throughout the life-course

Introduction

The granulocyte colony-stimulating factor receptor (G-CSFR), encoded by the CSF3R gene, is involved in the production and function of neutrophilic granulocytes. Somatic mutations in CSF3R leading to truncated G-CSFR forms are observed in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), particularly those subsequent to severe chronic neutropenia (SCN), as well as in a subset of patients with other leukemias.

Methods

This investigation introduced equivalent mutations into the zebrafish csf3r gene via genome editing and used a range of molecular and cellular techniques to understand the impact of these mutations on immune cells across the lifespan.

Results

Zebrafish harboring truncated G-CSFRs showed significantly enhanced neutrophil production throughout successive waves of embryonic hematopoiesis and a neutrophil maturation defect in adults, with the mutations acting in a partially dominant manner.

Discussion

This study has elucidated new insights into the impact of G-CSFR truncations throughout the life-course and created a bone fide zebrafish model for further investigation.

LINC01311 exerts an inhibitory effect in thyroid cancer progression by targeting the miR-146b-5p/IMPA2 axis

BACKGROUND

A growing body of research suggests that long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) play an important role during the tumorigenesis and progression of cancers, including thyroid cancer (TC). Herein, we intended to uncover the role and mechanisms of LINC01311 in TC.

METHODS

The relative LINC01311, miR-146b-5p, and IMPA2 expressions were quantified by subjecting TC cells and tissues to western blotting and RT-qPCR. CCK-8 and scratch-wound healing assays were carried out for the evaluation of the proliferation and migration of TC cells. The apoptosis was evaluated by flow cytometry assay and western blotting of Bax and Bcl-2 proteins. Xenograft tumor model was also used to study how LINC01311 functions during TC cell growth. Luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays were performed to ascertain miR-146b-5p's interactions with LINC01311 and IMPA2 3'UTR.

RESULTS

The TC cells and tissues exhibited a downregulation of LINC01311 and IMPA2 and an upregulation of miR-146b-5p. LINC01311 overexpression retarded TC cell growth in vitro as well as in vivo. The luciferase reporter and RIP assays verified that miR-146b-5p recognizes LINC01311 and IMPA2 3'UTR by base pairing. LINC01311 overexpression could counteract the oncogenic effect of miR-146b-5p in vitro. Moreover, IMPA2 upregulation could offset the tumor-promoting effect of miR-146b-5p.

CONCLUSION

LINC01311-mediated inhibition of TC cell growth was achieved by targeting the miR-146b-5p/IMPA2 axis. These findings support that targeting the LINC01311/miR-146b-5p/IMPA2 axis may be a promising approach against TC progression.

MST1 controls murine neutrophil homeostasis via the G-CSFR/STAT3 axis

The release of neutrophils from the bone marrow into the blood circulation is essential for neutrophil homeostasis and the protection of the organism from invading microorganisms. Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) plays a pivotal role in this process and guides granulopoiesis as well as the release of bone marrow neutrophils into the blood stream both during homeostasis and in case of infection through activation of the G-CSF receptor/signal transduction and activation of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway. Here, we investigated the role of the mammalian sterile 20-like kinase 1 (MST1) for neutrophil homeostasis and neutrophil mobilization. We found increased plasma levels of G-CSF in Mst1 ^-/- mice compared to wild type mice both under homeostatic conditions as well as after stimulation with the proinflammatory cytokine TNF-α. In addition, G-CSF-induced mobilization of neutrophils from the bone marrow into the blood circulation in vivo was markedly reduced in the absence of MST1. Interestingly, this was not accompanied by differences in the number of blood neutrophils. Addressing the underlying molecular mechanism of MST1-regulated neutrophil mobilization, we found reduced STAT3 phosphorylation and impaired upregulation of CXCR2 in Mst1 ^-/- bone marrow neutrophils compared to wild type cells, while JAK2 phosphorylation was not altered. Taken together, we identify MST1 as a critical modulator of neutrophil homeostasis and neutrophil mobilization from the bone marrow, which adds another important aspect to the complex role of MST1 in regulating innate immunity.

TIE2-high cervical cancer cells promote tumor angiogenesis by upregulating TIE2 and VEGFR2 in endothelial cells

Tyrosine kinase with immunoglobulin and epidermal growth factor homology domains 2 (TIE2), the receptor for angiopoietins, has been found highly expressed in cervical cancer and associated with poor prognosis. However, the potential role of tumoral TIE2 in cervical cancer angiogenesis and the underlying mechanisms remain unexplored. Here, based on multicolor immunofluorescence of 64 cervical cancer tissues, we found that TIE2 level in cervical cancer cells was positively related to shorter survival and higher microvessel density in tumor. In vitro and in vivo experiments verified that TIE2-high cervical cancer cells could promote tumor angiogenesis. TIE2-high tumor cells induced an amplified expression of TIE2 and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2(VEGFR2) in HUVECs to promote angiogenesis via TIE2 -AKT/MAPK signals, which could be reversed or partially reversed by TIE2, AKT or MAPK inhibitors and activated by angiopoietin-1 and angiopoietin-2. In conclusion, TIE2-high cervical cancer cells promote tumor angiogenesis by upregulating TIE2 and VEGFR2 in endothelial cells via TIE2-AKT/MAPK axis inside tumor cells.

Linc-UROD stabilizes ENO1 and PKM to strengthen glycolysis, proliferation and migration of pancreatic cancer cells

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a fatal malignancy, threatening human health in worldwide. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been acknowledged to be essential regulators in various biological processes of human cancers. However, the role of some novel lncRNAs in PC remain to be explored. In this study, we focused on the function and molecular mechanism of a novel lncRNA linc-UROD (also named TCONS_00002016 or XLOC_000166) in PC. The expression of linc-UROD was found to be upregulated in PC cells. The results of loss-of-function assays demonstrated that linc-UROD knockdown suppressed cell proliferation and migration, induced cell cycle G0/G1 arrest, and accelerated apoptosis of PC cells. Through mechanistic experiments, we found that IGF2BP3 stabilized linc-UROD through METTL3-mediated m6A modification. In addition, linc-UROD enhances the stability of ENO1 and PKM through interacting with them to inhibit ubiquitination. Detection on glucose consumption, pyruvate kinase activity and lactate production indicated that linc-UROD accelerated glycolysis of PC cells through PKM/ENO1-mediated pathway. To summarize, linc-UROD stabilized by IGF2BP3/METTL3 contributes to glycolysis and malignant phenotype of PC cells by stabilizing ENO1 and PKM. The findings suggest that linc-UROD may be a novel therapeutic target for PC patients.

Human β-defensin-3 and nuclear factor-kappa B p65 synergistically promote the cell proliferation and invasion of oral squamous cell carcinoma

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a usual oral cancer. Therefore, it's essential to identify targets for its early diagnosis and therapy. This research aimed to explore the roles of human β-defensin-3 (hBD-3) and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) p65 in the pathogenesis and progression of OSCC. The connection between NF-κB p65 and the carcinogenesis of oral cancer was analyzed by immunohistochemical staining. The relative expressions of hBD-3 and NF-κB p65 in OSCC cells were evaluated by qRT-PCR and Western blot. Afterward, hBD-3 was knocked down, and NF-κB p65 was overexpressed. The cell viability and invasion were tested via CCK-8 and Transwell experiment, and the expression of hBD-3, NF-κB p65, and its downstream molecules was evaluated by Western blot. The expression of NF-κB p65 was increased with the aggravation of the oral submucosal fibrosis. HBD-3 and NF-κB p65 were high-expressed in OSCC cells. The viability and invasion abilities of OSCC cells that knocked down hBD-3 were markedly decreased, while they were restored by the overexpression of NF-κB p65. The expressions of NF-κB p65 and c-myc were diminished while IκB and p21 were raised with the knockdown of hBD-3. After overexpression of NF-κB p65, the expression of hBD-3 and IκB did not change markedly, while c-myc was increased and p21 was decreased dramatically. HBD-3 and NF-κB p65 facilitate the proliferation and invasion of OSCC cells, and hBD-3 may promote this process by governing the expression of NF-κB p65 and its downstream c-myc and p21.

Purification and membrane interactions of human KCNQ1100-370 potassium ion channel

KCNQ1 (Kv7.1 or KvLQT1) is a voltage-gated potassium ion channel that is involved in the ventricular repolarization following an action potential in the heart. It forms a complex with KCNE1 in the heart and is the pore forming subunit of slow delayed rectifier potassium current (Iks). Mutations in KCNQ1, leading to a dysfunctional channel or loss of activity have been implicated in a cardiac disorder, long QT syndrome. In this study, we report the overexpression, purification, biochemical characterization of human KCNQ1100-370, and lipid bilayer dynamics upon interaction with KCNQ1100-370. The recombinant human KCNQ1 was expressed in Escherichia coli and purified into n-dodecylphosphocholine (DPC) micelles. The purified KCNQ1100-370 was biochemically characterized by SDS-PAGE electrophoresis, western blot and nano-LC-MS/MS to confirm the identity of the protein. Circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy was utilized to confirm the secondary structure of purified protein in vesicles. Furthermore, 31P and 2H solid-state NMR spectroscopy in DPPC/POPC/POPG vesicles (MLVs) indicated a direct interaction between KCNQ100-370 and the phospholipid head groups. Finally, a visual inspection of KCNQ1100-370 incorporated into MLVs was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The findings of this study provide avenues for future structural studies of the human KCNQ1 ion channel to have an in depth understanding of its structure-function relationship.

Association between leucocyte telomere length and the risk of atrial fibrillation: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Advancing age is the most important risk factor of atrial fibrillation (AF). The shortening of telomere length is a biomarker of biologic aging. There is an increasing body of evidence that leucocyte telomere length (LTL) is associated with the risk of AF development. However, the results in these studies were controversial. The current systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to examine the role of LTL in predicting the incidence of AF.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Observational studies reporting the association between LTL and the risk of AF were retrieved through 25th June, 2022 from PubMed and Embase. A total of twelve studies including 18,293 patients were included in the present analysis. Leucocyte telomere shortening was found to be an independent predictor of AF as a continuous variable in both univariate [OR:2.14; 95%CI(1.48,3.10); P < 0.0001] and multivariate analyses [OR:1.41;95%CI(1.11,1.79); P = 0.005], as well as categorical variable in multivariate analysis [OR:1.53; 95%CI(1.04,2.27); P = 0.03]. Furthermore, leucocyte telomere shortening was significantly associated with recurrent AF [OR:4.32;95%CI(2.42,7.69); P < 0.00001] but not new-onset AF [OR:1.14; 95%CI(0.90,1.45); P = 0.29]. Leucocyte telomere shortening was also associated with an increased risk of persistent AF [OR:14.73;95%CI (3.16,68.67); P = 0.0006] and paroxysmal AF [OR:2.74;95%CI(1.45,5.18); P = 0.002]. Besides, LTL was an independent predictor for progression from paroxysmal AF to persistent AF [OR:3.2;95%CI(1.66,6.18); P = 0.0005]. Differences between males [OR:1.99; 95%CI(1.29,3.06); P = 0.002] and females [OR:0.86; 95%CI (0.29,2.56);P = 0.79] were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Leucocyte telomere shortening predicts the risk of AF, especially recurrent AF. The predictive value is more prominent in males than in females. Shortening in LTL can predict the progression from paroxysmal to persistent AF.

Construction of TSC2 knockout cell line using CRISPR/Cas9 system and demonstration of its effects on NIH-3T3 cells

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a rare autosomal dominant disorder involving multiple organ systems. TSC2 gene plays an important role in the development of TSC. The most common kidney manifestation of TSC is renal angiomyolipoma (RAML). TSC-RAML is more likely to be bilateral multiple tumors and tends to destroy the renal structure and damages renal function severely. As a result, patients with TSC-RAML often miss the opportunity for surgical treatment when TSC-RAML is diagnosed, causing difficulty in obtaining tumor specimens through surgery. Due to this difficulty, model cell lines must be constructed for scientific research. In this paper, TSC2 was knocked out in NIH-3T3 cell lines by CRISPR/Cas9 system. PCR, WB and mTOR inhibitor drug sensitivity test showed that the TSC2 knockout NIH-3T3 cells were successfully constructed. The ability of proliferation and invasion in TSC2 KO NIH-3T3 cells were higher than those in wild type group. The constructed KO cell line lay the foundation for further study of TSC.

The effect of lactoferrin on ULK1 and ATG13 genes expression in breast cancer cell line MCF7 and bioinformatics studies of protein interaction between lactoferrin and the autophagy initiation complex

Recently, the study of autophagy and its mechanism on the cancer cell growth process has received much attention. lactoferrin (Lf) is a glycoprotein with various biological activities, including antibacterial, antiviral, anti-cancer, etc. In the present study, the effect of different concentrations of lactoferrin on the expression of ULK1 and ATG13 genes was evaluated in breast cancer cell line MCF7 using real-time PCR technique as well as the molecular mechanism of these two genes and their proteins in the autophagy pathway and the relationship between lactoferrin and these proteins were investigated by bioinformatics studies. The result showed that the expression of the ULK1 gene at a concentration of 500 μg/ml of lactoferrin was significantly (P < 0.007) increased compared to the control and two other concentrations. Also, the expression of the ATG13 gene at all three concentrations was not significantly different from each other and compared to the control (P = 0.635). In the immunoblot of ULK1 protein at a concentration of 500 µg, more protein expression was observed. The binding mode of lactoferrin with ULK1, ATG13, and ATG101 proteins was obtained using docking. According to docking results, the N-lobe region of lactoferrin interacts with the PS domain of the ULK1 protein, and the N-lobe region of lactoferrin interacts with the horma domain of the ATG 13 and ATG101 proteins. The results show that lactoferrin, in addition to acting on the gene, interacts with ULK1, ATG13, and ATG101 proteins. Since all three proteins are components of the autophagy initiation complex, lactoferrin can induce autophagy in this way.

Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor attenuates liver damage by M2 macrophage polarization and hepatocyte proliferation in alcoholic hepatitis in mice

Massive inflammation and liver failure are main contributors to the high mortality in alcohol-associated hepatitis (AH). In recent clinical trials, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) therapy improved liver function and survival in patients with AH. However, the mechanisms of G-CSF-mediated beneficial effects in AH remain elusive. In this study, we evaluated effects of in vivo G-CSF administration, using a mouse model of AH. G-CSF treatment significantly reduced liver damage in alcohol-fed mice even though it increased the numbers of liver-infiltrating immune cells, including neutrophils and inflammatory monocytes. Moreover, G-CSF promoted macrophage polarization toward an M2-like phenotype and increased hepatocyte proliferation, which was indicated by an increased Ki67-positive signal colocalized with hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 alpha (HNF-4α) and cyclin D1 expression in hepatocytes. We found that G-CSF increased G-CSF receptor expression and resulted in reduced levels of phosphorylated β-catenin in hepatocytes. In the presence of an additional pathogen-associated molecule, lipopolysaccharide (LPS), which is significantly increased in the circulation and liver of patients with AH, the G-CSF-induced hepatoprotective effects were abolished in alcohol-fed mice. We still observed increased Ki67-positive signals in alcohol-fed mice following G-CSF treatment; however, Ki67 and HNF-4α did not colocalize in LPS-challenged mice. Conclusion: G-CSF treatment increases immune cell populations, particularly neutrophil counts, and promotes M2-like macrophage differentiation in the liver. More importantly, G-CSF treatment reduces alcohol-induced liver injury and promotes hepatocyte proliferation in alcohol-fed mice. These data provide new insights into the understanding of mechanisms mediated by G-CSF and its therapeutic effects in AH.

A review of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor receptor signaling and regulation with implications for cancer

Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor receptor (GCSFR) is a critical regulator of granulopoiesis. Studies have shown significant upregulation of GCSFR in a variety of cancers and cell types and have recognized GCSFR as a cytokine receptor capable of influencing both myeloid and non-myeloid immune cells, supporting pro-tumoral actions. This systematic review aims to summarize the available literature examining the mechanisms that control GCSFR signaling, regulation, and surface expression with emphasis on how these mechanisms may be dysregulated in cancer. Experiments with different cancer cell lines from breast cancer, bladder cancer, glioma, and neuroblastoma are used to review the biological function and underlying mechanisms of increased GCSFR expression with emphasis on actions related to tumor proliferation, migration, and metastasis, primarily acting through the JAK/STAT pathway. Evidence is also presented that demonstrates a differential physiological response to aberrant GCSFR signal transduction in different organs. The lifecycle of the receptor is also reviewed to support future work defining how this signaling axis becomes dysregulated in malignancies.

Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals That Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor Trigger a Novel Signaling Pathway (TAF9-P53-TRIAP1-CASP3) to Protect Retinal Ganglion Cells after Ischemic Optic Neuropathy

Optic nerve head (ONH) infarct can result in progressive retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death. The granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (GCSF) protects the RGC after ON infarct. However, protective mechanisms of the GCSF after ONH infarct are complex and remain unclear. To investigate the complex mechanisms involved, the transcriptome profiles of the GCSF-treated retinas were examined using microarray technology. The retinal mRNA samples on days 3 and 7 post rat anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (rAION) were analyzed by microarray and bioinformatics analyses. GCSF treatment influenced 3101 genes and 3332 genes on days 3 and 7 post rAION, respectively. ONH infarct led to changes in 702 and 179 genes on days 3 and 7 post rAION, respectively. After cluster analysis, the levels of TATA box-binding protein (TBP)-associated factor were significantly reduced after ONH infarct, but these significantly increased after GCSF treatment. The network analysis revealed that TBP associated factor 9 (TAF9) can bind to P53 to induce TP53-regulated inhibitor of apoptosis 1 (TRIAP1) expression. To evaluate the function of TAF9 in RGC apoptosis, GCSF plus TAF9 siRNA-treated rats were evaluated using retrograde labeling with FluoroGold assay, TUNEL assay, and Western blotting in an rAION model. The RGC densities in the GCSF plus TAF9 siRNA-treated rAION group were 1.95-fold (central retina) and 1.75-fold (midperipheral retina) lower than that in the GCSF-treated rAION group (p < 0.05). The number of apoptotic RGC in the GCSF plus TAF9 siRNA-treated group was threefold higher than that in the GCSF-treated group (p < 0.05). Treatment with TAF9 siRNA significantly reduced GCSF-induced TP53 and TRIAP1 expression by 2.4-fold and 4.7-fold, respectively, in the rAION model. Overexpression of TAF9 significantly reduced apoptotic RGC and CASP3 levels, and induced TP53 and TRIAP1 expression in the rAION model. Therefore, we have demonstrated that GCSF modulated a new pathway, TAF9-P53-TRIAP1-CASP3, to control RGC death and survival after ON infarct.

Impact of cardiovascular comorbidity on increased neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio in pseudoexfoliation syndrome

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to compare neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratios (NLRs) of patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome (PEX) according to the presence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) with those without CVD as controls.

METHODS

A total of 197 participants (97 patients with PEX and 100 participants without PEX regarded as the control group) were included in this retrospective study. The PEX group was divided into 2 subgroups, PEX with CVD (group 1) and PEX without CVD (group 2). NLRs were then compared to those of the control group.

RESULTS

The incidence of CVD was significantly (P = .015) higher in the PEX group than in the control group. NLR was significantly higher in the group 1 and group 2 compared with that of the control group (P = .048 and P = .002, respectively). In the PEX group, group 1 showed higher NLR than group 2 (P = .023).

CONCLUSION

Although the PEX group showed a higher incidence of CVD, the NLR was higher in the PEX group regardless of cardiovascular comorbidity than that in the control group.

Donor CSF3R with the rs3917980A/G or G/G genotype is correlated with better leukemia-free survival after allogenic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

Polymorphisms in the granulocyte colony-stimulating factor receptor gene (GCSFR, CSF3R) have been reported to be associated with peripheral blood stem cell enrichment and hematological diseases. The aim of our study was to investigate the effects of donor CSF3R allelic polymorphisms on the outcomes of allogeneic stem cell transplantation. A total of 273 patients who were diagnosed with hematological diseases and treated with allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation(allo-HSCT) were enrolled in this study. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms in CSF3R were genotyped by targeted next-generation sequencing. There were six types of CSF3R genotypes with percentages over 1%. LFS and OS analyses showed that recipients receiving grafts from healthy donors with a rs3917980 G/G or A/G genotype had higher LFS rates than those receiving grafts from donors carrying a rs22754272 T/C genotype and the double-negative group (p = 0.036). Univariate cox analysis showed that donor CSF3R with the rs2275472 T/C genotype was associated with higher transplantation-related mortality (TRM) rates (HR = 2.853, 95% CI: 1.405-5.792, p = 0.00371) and lower rates of leukemia-free survival (LFS) (HR = 1.846; 95% CI: 1.018-3.347, p = 0.0435). In addition, donor CSF3R with the rs3917980G/G or A/G genotype was associated with better overall survival (OS) rates (HR = 0.560, 95% CI: 0.3162-0.9916, p = 0.047) and lower TRM rates (HR = 0.497, 95% CI: 0.2628-0.9397, p = 0.0315). Furthermore, multivariate cox analysis found that rs2275472 T/C genotype was an independent risk factors for TRM rates (HR = 3.210, 95% CI: 1.573-6.55, p = 0.001), while no statistical difference was found between rs3917980G/G or A/G genotype and clinical outcomes. Our findings demonstrate the important prognostic value of genetic variations in donor CSF3R to predict clinical outcomes in patients undergoing allo-HSCT.

Differential Implications of CSF3R Mutations in t(8;21) and CEBPA Double Mutated Acute Myeloid Leukemia

BACKGROUND

Few data are available exploring mutations of the colony-stimulating factor 3 receptor (CSF3R) in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in an all-round and systematic manner. The purpose of this study was to analyze the CSF3R mutations (CSF3R_mut) in AML with recurrent genetic abnormalities for potential synergistic pathomechanism.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively screened 1102 adult de novo AML patients with available next-generation sequencing (NGS) information on 132 genes related to hematologic disorders. The χ², Mann-Whitney U tests were used to analyze their associations with clinicopathologic characteristics, and a propensity score matching (PSM) followed by Kaplan-Meier method was applied to measure their prognostic effects.

RESULTS

Overall, CSF3R_mut were detected in 40 (3.6%) of 1102 patients with adult de novo AML. CSF3R_mut were predominantly enriched in AML with the CEBPA double mutations (CEBPA_dm) (16/122, 13.1%), t(8;21) (12/186, 6.5%) and mutated RUNX1 (3/50, 6.0%), respectively. The CSF3R_mut loci and types differed according to AML subtypes, with frameshift-indels and premature stop confined in the t(8;21) AML [10/12 (83.3%)], and missense recurrently aggregated in the CEBPA_dm AML [16/16 (100%)]. Cases with CSF3R_mut had a lower WBC count versus those with CSF3R wild-type (CSF3R_wt) in the t(8;21) AML cohort, with a borderline significance [median 5.45 (range 0.94-20.30) × 10⁹/L) vs. 8.80 (range 0.96-155.00) × 10⁹/L, P = .046]. CSF3R_mut were non-significantly associated with higher WBC counts [median 33.6 (range 6.8-287.6) × 10⁹/L vs. 18.1 (range 1.7-196.0) × 10⁹/L, P = .156] and significantly with lower immunophenotypic CD15 positivity [0/8 (0%) vs. 44/80 (55%), P = .009] as compared to CSF3R_wt in the CEBPA_dm AML cohort. After propensity score matching followed by Kaplan-Meier analysis, CSF3R_mut cases had comparable disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) to those with CSF3R_wt (P = .607 and P = .842, respectively) in the t(8;21) AML cohort. By contrast, CSF3R_mut showed an inclination towards inferior DFS compared to CSF3R_wt in the CEBPA_dm AML cohort [median DFS 19.8 (95%CI 3.1-36.5) months vs. not reached (NR), P = .086]. No significant difference was found for OS between CSF3R_mut and CSF3R_wt cases (P = .943).

CONCLUSION

We concluded that CSF3R_mut were frequently enriched in patients with t(8;21) and CEBPA_dm subtypes among AML, but showed divergent clinicopathologic features, mutation loci and types and differing prognostic aspects.

A topological refactoring design strategy yields highly stable granulopoietic proteins

Protein therapeutics frequently face major challenges, including complicated production, instability, poor solubility, and aggregation. De novo protein design can readily address these challenges. Here, we demonstrate the utility of a topological refactoring strategy to design novel granulopoietic proteins starting from the granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) structure. We change a protein fold by rearranging the sequence and optimising it towards the new fold. Testing four designs, we obtain two that possess nanomolar activity, the most active of which is highly thermostable and protease-resistant, and matches its designed structure to atomic accuracy. While the designs possess starkly different sequence and structure from the native G-CSF, they show specific activity in differentiating primary human haematopoietic stem cells into mature neutrophils. The designs also show significant and specific activity in vivo. Our topological refactoring approach is largely independent of sequence or structural context, and is therefore applicable to a wide range of protein targets.

Skokowa et al. reconstruct the fold of a granulopoietic cytokine, resulting in de novo, hyperstable, highly active proteins with therapeutic potential for treating several neutropenia disorders.

Molecular mechanisms of aberrant neutrophil differentiation in glycogen storage disease type Ib

Glycogen storage disease type Ib (GSD-Ib), characterized by impaired glucose homeostasis, neutropenia, and neutrophil dysfunction, is caused by a deficiency in glucose-6-phosphate transporter (G6PT). Neutropenia in GSD-Ib has been known to result from enhanced apoptosis of neutrophils. However, it has also been raised that neutrophil maturation arrest in the bone marrow would contribute to neutropenia. We now show that G6pt-/- mice exhibit severe neutropenia and impaired neutrophil differentiation in the bone marrow. To investigate the role of G6PT in myeloid progenitor cells, the G6PT gene was mutated using CRISPR/Cas9 system, and single cell-derived G6PT-/- human promyelocyte HL-60 cell lines were established. The G6PT-/- HL-60s exhibited impaired neutrophil differentiation, which is associated with two mechanisms: (i) abnormal lipid metabolism causing a delayed metabolic reprogramming and (ii) reduced nuclear transcriptional activity of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ) in G6PT-/- HL-60s. In this study, we demonstrated that G6PT is essential for neutrophil differentiation of myeloid progenitor cells and regulates PPARγ activity.

CEACAM-1 Induced CSF3-receptor Downregulation in Bone Marrow Associated With Refractory Neutropenia in Advanced Cirrhosis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Cirrhosis patients exhibit cytopenia, and, at times refractory neutropenia to granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), which acts through the CSF3-receptor (CSF3R), and changes in CSF3R can affect the response. We conducted this study to assess the CSF3R status and its relevance in cirrhotic patients.

METHODS

Cirrhotic patients (n=127) and controls (n=26) with clinically indicated bone marrow (BM) examination were studied. BM assessment was done by qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry (IHC) for CSF3R. Circulating G-CSF, CSF3R, and carcinoembryonic antigen cell adhesion molecule-1 (CEACAM1) were measured. BM hematopoietic precursor cells and their alterations were examined by flow cytometry. The findings were validated in liver cirrhosis patients who received G-CSF for severe neutropenia.

RESULTS

The mean age was 48.6±13.4 years, and 80.3% were men. Circulatory CSF3R reduction was noted with the advancement of cirrhosis, and confirmed by qRT-PCR and IHC in BM. CSF3R decline was related to decreased hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and downregulation of CSF3R in the remaining HSCs. Cocultures confirmed that CEACAM1 led to CSF3R downregulation in BM cells by possible lysosomal degradation. Baseline low peripheral blood-(PB)-CSF3R also predisposed development of infections on follow-up. Decreased CSF3R was also associated with nonresponse to exogenous G-CSF treatment of neutropenia.

CONCLUSIONS

Advanced liver cirrhosis was associated with low CSF3R and high CEACAM1 levels in the BM and circulation, making patients prone to infection and inadequate response to exogenous G-CSF.