The glycolytic enzyme PFKFB3 drives kidney fibrosis through promoting histone lactylation-mediated NF-κB family activation

Lactate metabolism and lactylation in kidney diseases: insights into mechanisms and therapeutic opportunities

The kidney is essential for lactate metabolism. Under normal conditions, the renal cortex mainly absorbs and metabolizes lactate, with minimal amounts excreted in urine. This process is part of a glucose-lactate recycling system between the cortex and medulla. In conditions such as acute kidney injury (AKI) and diabetic kidney disease (DKD), the kidney's ability to metabolize lactate is impaired, leading to lactate accumulation and exacerbated renal dysfunction. Novel post-translational modifications, such as lactylation, are critical in kidney disease pathophysiology by modulating gene transcription, protein function, and cellular metabolism. Lactylation is involved in inflammatory responses and tumor promotion in AKI, mitochondrial dysfunction in DKD, and tumor progression in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). The lactate-lactylation axis is central to the Warburg effect in ccRCC, where tumor cells preferentially rely on glycolysis rather than oxidative phosphorylation. Understanding the mechanisms of lactate metabolism and lactylation in kidney diseases may offer new therapeutic strategies. This review examines the role of lactate esters, especially lactylation, in kidney diseases, with a focus on their regulatory mechanisms and potential as therapeutic targets.

Fruit of Physalis angulata L. and anti-inflammatory potential: An in silico, in vitro, and in vivo study focusing on PFKFB3

BACKGROUND

Sepsis-associated lung injury (SALI) is a disease characterised by inflammation. The fruit of Physalis angulata L. has been employed as a premium, novel, nutritious, healthcare "herbal fruit", which can be processed into juice, preserved fruit, canned food, and so forth.

PURPOSE

The objective of this study is to examine the impact of the fruit of Physalis angulata L. on the inhibition of inflammation in sepsis-associated lung injury and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

METHODS

The active components of fruit of Physalis angulata L. were analysed using HPLC-MS/MS. A comprehensive investigation was conducted to elucidate the effects and regulatory mechanisms of fruit of Physalis angulata L. on sepsis-associated lung injury and M1 polarisation of macrophage in mice subjected to acute LPS treatment. The renoprotective effect of fruit of Physalis angulata L. on LPS-treated mice was evaluated by measuring tissue damage and inflammation. In addition, we employed RNA-seq methodologies to analyse the principal regulatory targets of fruit of Physalis angulata L.. Furthermore, the expression of key proteins and markers of inflammation and glucose metabolism, as well as the levels of key indicators related to M1 polarisation of macrophage, were examined by immunoblotting, immunohistochemistry, immunoprecipitation, quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) and specific probes.

RESULTS

In murine models, the ethanol extract of the fruit of Physalis angulata L. (EPAF) has been demonstrated to effectively inhibit structural damage and inflammation in the lung tissue of a murine model of LPS-induced acute lung injury. In terms of its mechanism of action, EPAF may inhibit M1 polarisation of macrophage and excessive inflammation by modulating the acetylation and phosphorylation of PFKFB3. This in turn affects glycolysis and the subsequent activation of NF-κB, HIF-1α and STAT3 in macrophages. Furthermore, the capacity of EPAF to markedly diminish LPS-induced lung injury in a murine model indicates that it may serve as a promising adjunctive therapy for acute lung Injury.

CONCLUSION

These suggest that fruit of Physalis angulata L. alleviates sepsis-associated lung injury through suppressing M1 polarization of macrophage via regulation of PFKFB3.

Histone lactylation-augmented IRF4 is implicated in arsenite-induced liver fibrosis via modulating Th17 cell differentiation

Arsenic, a ubiquitous environmental toxicant, has been implicated in causing liver fibrosis through chronic exposure. Histone lactylation is involved in various inflammatory diseases, among which liver fibrosis is included, and is also closely related to the regulation of immune cells. This work focuses on the mechanisms of histone lactylation and Th17 cell differentiation in arsenite-induced liver fibrosis through animal and cellular experiments. Chronic arsenite exposure of mice led to liver fibrosis, elevated glycolysis in liver, and increased lactate levels in both serum and liver, which promoted Th17 cell differentiation of CD4+ T cells and increased IL-17A secretion. Treatment with oxamate, a lactate dehydrogenase inhibitor, suppressed Th17 cell differentiation and alleviated fibrosis in the liver. For HepG2 cells, arsenite exposure enhanced glycolysis and lactate levels, leading to increased global lactylation (Kla), H3K18la, interferon-regulatory factor 4 (IRF4), retinoic acid receptor-related orphan receptor gamma t (RORγt), and IL-17A expression and secretion in co-cultured Jurkat cells. Furthermore, in Jurkat cells, reducing lactate production and transport decreased these protein levels, suppressed Th17 cell differentiation, decreased IL-17A secretion, and ultimately inhibited the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). These results indicate that lactate derived from hepatocytes promotes Th17 cell differentiation by upregulating IRF4 through H3K18la, thereby enhancing IL-17A secretion and the activation of HSCs, contributing to arsenite-induced liver fibrosis. Our work reveals a new mechanism of histone lactylation in arsenite-induced liver fibrosis and offers a fresh perspective for the development of strategies for prevention and treatment of this condition.

Lactylation: From Homeostasis to Pathological Implications and Therapeutic Strategies

Lactylation, a recently identified post-translational modification, represents a groundbreaking addition to the epigenetic landscape, revealing its pivotal role in gene regulation and metabolic adaptation. Unlike traditional modifications, lactylation directly links metabolic intermediates, such as lactate, to protein function and cellular behavior. Emerging evidence highlights the critical involvement of lactylation in diverse biological processes, including immune response modulation, cellular differentiation, and tumor progression. However, its regulatory mechanisms, biological implications, and disease associations remain poorly understood. This review systematically explores the enzymatic and nonenzymatic mechanisms underlying protein lactylation, shedding light on the interplay between cellular metabolism and epigenetic control. We comprehensively analyze its biological functions in normal physiology, such as immune homeostasis and tissue repair, and its dysregulation in pathological contexts, including cancer, inflammation, and metabolic disorders. Moreover, we discuss advanced detection technologies and potential therapeutic interventions targeting lactylation pathways. By integrating these insights, this review aims to bridge critical knowledge gaps and propose future directions for research. Highlighting lactylation's multifaceted roles in health and disease, this review provides a timely resource for understanding its clinical implications, particularly as a novel target for precision medicine in metabolic and oncological therapies.

Cardiorenal syndrome: clinical diagnosis, molecular mechanisms and therapeutic strategies

As the heart and kidneys are closely connected by the circulatory system, primary dysfunction of either organ usually leads to secondary dysfunction or damage to the other organ. These interactions play a major role in the pathogenesis of a clinical entity named cardiorenal syndrome (CRS). The pathophysiology of CRS is complicated and involves multiple body systems. In early studies, CRS was classified into five subtypes according to the organs associated with the vicious cycle and the acuteness and chronicity of CRS. Increasing evidence shows that CRS is associated with a variety of pathological mechanisms, such as haemodynamics, neurohormonal changes, hypervolemia, hypertension, hyperuraemia and hyperuricaemia. In this review, we summarize the classification and currently available diagnostic biomarkers of CRS. We highlight the recently revealed molecular pathogenesis of CRS, such as oxidative stress and inflammation, hyperactive renin‒angiotensin‒aldosterone system, maladaptive Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway and profibrotic TGF‒β1/Smad signalling pathway, as well as other pathogeneses, such as dysbiosis of the gut microbiota and dysregulation of noncoding RNAs. Targeting these CRS-associated signalling pathways has new therapeutic potential for treating CRS. In addition, various chemical drugs, natural products, complementary therapies, blockers, and agonists that protect against CRS are summarized. Since the molecular mechanisms of CRS remain to be elucidated, no single intervention has been shown to be effective in treating CRS. Pharmacologic therapies designed to block CRS are urgently needed. This review presents a critical therapeutic avenue for targeting CRS and concurrently illuminates challenges and opportunities for discovering novel treatment strategies for CRS.

Biomimetic mineralized mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes for dual modulation of ferroptosis and lactic acid-driven inflammation in acute liver injury therapy

Acute liver injury (ALI) is characterized by rapid and severe hepatocellular damage, leading to ferroptosis and an exacerbated inflammatory response. Mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (MSC-exo) have emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy for ALI due to their ability to deliver antioxidants and stabilize solute carrier family 7 members 11 (SLC7A11)/glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) system. In this study, we developed a novel engineered exosome, MSC-exo/MnO2@DEX, by encapsulating the anti-inflammatory drug dexamethasone (DEX) within MSC-exo and modifying its surface with manganese dioxide (MnO2) via a bionano-mineralization approach. MnO2 exhibits multi-enzymatic activity, enabling efficient scavenging of reactive oxygen species (ROS), such as hydrogen peroxide and superoxide anions. When combined with MSC-exo, MnO2 not only reduces ROS levels and generates oxygen but also stabilizes the SLC7A11/GPX4 axis, thereby protecting hepatocytes from ferroptosis. Concurrently, DEX suppresses the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathway, inhibits macrophage M1 polarization, and alleviates hepatic inflammation. The oxygen produced by MnO2 catalysis further mitigates hypoxia, decreases lactic acid accumulation, and downregulates histone lactylation, synergizing with DEX to enhance NF-κB pathway inhibition and amplify anti-inflammatory effects. Transcriptomic analyses revealed that MSC-exo/MnO2@DEX significantly enhances antioxidant capacity, metabolic processes, and immune function, while improving liver function and suppressing ferroptosis, lactylation and inflammatory responses. Collectively, these findings demonstrate the therapeutic potential of MSC-exo/MnO2@DEX as an effective treatment for ALI.

The regulatory role of protein lactylation in various diseases: Special focus on the regulatory role of non-histone lactylation

Lactylation, an emerging form of post-translational modification derived from lactate, plays a pivotal role in numerous cellular processes such as tumor proliferation, metabolism, inflammation, and embryonic development. However, the precise molecular mechanisms by which lactylation controls these biological functions in both physiological and pathological contexts remain elusive. This review summarizes the latest reported regulatory mechanisms of protein lactylation in various diseases since 2024, introducing the latest research progress regarding the regulatory functions of protein lactylation in pathological processes, with particular attention to the regulatory mechanisms of non-histone lactylation modification in diseases. Finally, it outlines the potential of targeted lactylation therapy, proposes the main directions for future research, and emphasizes its scientific significance for future studies.

IGFBP5 promotes EndoMT and renal fibrosis through H3K18 lactylation in diabetic nephropathy

OBJECTIVE

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is an important complication in diabetic patients that severely impacts their quality of life and life expectancy. Although metabolic and inflammatory responses induced by hyperglycemia are considered the primary pathogenic factors of DN, the specific molecular mechanisms involved remain unclear. Here, we investigated the role of insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 5 (IGFBP5) in DN using in vitro cell experiments and mouse models.

METHODS

We assessed the effects of high-glucose conditions on IGFBP5 expression in glomerular endothelial cells and evaluated its regulatory effects on glycolysis, NLRP3 inflammasome activation, endothelial‒mesenchymal transition (EndoMT), and histone lactylation via the suppression of IGFBP5. Furthermore, we evaluated the effects of IGFBP5 on renal fibrosis and confirmed its regulatory mechanisms in DN model mice.

RESULTS

Knockdown of IGFBP5 inhibited high glucose-induced EndoMT in glomerular endothelial cells, which could also be suppressed by the NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitor MCC950. In addition, silencing of IGFBP5 decreased glycolytic activity and histone lactylation, thereby inhibiting the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome and EndoMT. Furthermore, in mouse models of DN, IGFBP5 knockdown alleviated renal fibrosis and reduced glycolysis, histone lactylation, NLRP3 inflammasome activation and EndoMT.

CONCLUSIONS

IGFBP5 promotes NLRP3 inflammasome-induced EndoMT and renal fibrosis by regulating glycolysis-mediated histone lactylation, accelerating the progression of DN. These findings provide a new potential therapeutic target for DN.

Lactylation as a metabolic epigenetic modification: Mechanistic insights and regulatory pathways from cells to organs and diseases

In recent years, lactylation, a novel post-translational modification, has demonstrated a unique role in bridging cellular metabolism and epigenetic regulation. This modification exerts a dual-edged effect in both cancer and non-cancer diseases by dynamically integrating the supply of metabolic substrates and the activity of modifying enzymes: on one hand, it promotes tissue homeostasis and repair through the activation of repair genes; on the other, it exacerbates pathological progression by driving malignant phenotypes. In the field of oncology, lactylation regulates key processes such as metabolic reprogramming, immune evasion, and therapeutic resistance, thereby shaping the heterogeneity of the tumor microenvironment. In non-cancerous diseases, including neurodegeneration and cardiovascular disorders, its aberrant activation can lead to mitochondrial dysfunction, fibrosis, and chronic inflammation. Existing studies have revealed a dynamic regulatory network formed by the cooperation of modifying and demodifying enzymes, and have identified mechanisms such as subcellular localization and RNA metabolism intervention that influence disease progression. Nevertheless, several challenges remain in the field. This article comprehensively summarizes the disease-specific regulatory mechanisms of lactylation, with the aim of providing a theoretical foundation for its targeted therapeutic application.

Role of lysine lactylation in neoplastic and inflammatory pulmonary diseases (Review)

Protein lysine lactylation is a ubiquitous and post‑translational modification of lysine residues that involves the addition of a lactyl group on both histone and non‑histone proteins. This process plays a pivotal role in human health and disease and was first discovered in 2019. This epigenetic modification regulates gene transcription from chromatin or directly influences non‑histone proteins by modulating protein‑DNA/protein interactions, activity and stability. The dual functions of lactylation in both histone and non‑histone proteins establish it as a crucial mechanism involved in various cellular processes, such as cell proliferation, differentiation, immune and inflammatory responses and metabolism. Specific enzymes, referred to as 'writers' and 'erasers', catalyze the addition or removal of lactyl groups at designated lysine sites, thereby dynamically modulating lactylation through alterations in their enzymatic activities. The respiratory system has a remarkably intricate metabolic profile. Numerous pulmonary diseases feature an atypical transition towards glycolytic metabolism, which is linked to an overproduction of lactate, a possible substrate for lactylation. However, there has yet to be a comprehensive review elucidating the full impact of lactylation on the onset, progression and potential treatment of neoplastic and inflammatory pulmonary diseases. In the present review, an extensive overview of the discovery of lactylation and advancements in research on the existing lactylation sites were discussed. Furthermore, the review particularly investigated the potential roles and mechanisms of histone and non‑histone lactylation in various neoplastic and inflammatory pulmonary diseases, including non‑small cell lung cancers, malignant pleural effusion, pulmonary fibrosis, acute lung injury and asthma, to excavate the new therapeutic effects of post‑translational modification on various pulmonary diseases.

TIMP2-mediated mitochondrial fragmentation and glycolytic reprogramming drive renal fibrogenesis following ischemia-reperfusion injury

Acute kidney injury (AKI) triggers renal structural and functional abnormalities through inflammatory and fibrotic signaling pathways, ultimately progressing to chronic kidney disease (CKD). The mechanisms underlying AKI-to-CKD transition are complex, with hypoxia, mitochondrial dysfunction, and metabolic reprogramming as critical contributors. Public data analysis demonstrated significant upregulation of tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (Timp2) in renal biopsy tissues of CKD patients. In both ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) and unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) models, Timp2 upregulation was observed. Tubule-specific Timp2 knockout markedly attenuated renal fibrosis. RNA-sequencing revealed Timp2's association with mitochondrial dynamics and glycolysis in I/R mice. Timp2 deletion improved mitochondrial morphology and suppressed glycolytic enzyme expression. In vitro, TGF-β1-treated Timp2-knockdown HK-2 cells exhibited inhibited Drp1 expression, restored Mfn2 levels, alleviated mitochondrial fragmentation, and elevated mitochondrial membrane potential. Additionally, Pfkfb3 and HIF-1α were downregulated, accompanied by reduced extracellular acidification rate (ECAR), PFK activity, and lactate production. Mechanistically, Timp2 interacts with the extracellular domain of Sdc4 in an autocrine manner, activating the Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway. Cyclopamine partially rescued Timp2 overexpression-induced mitochondrial dysfunction, suppressed Pfkfb3-mediated glycolysis, and diminished collagen deposition. This study is the first to demonstrate that Timp2 in TECs exacerbates Hh signaling, promoting mitochondrial fragmentation and metabolic reprogramming to accelerate I/R-induced renal fibrosis.

Histone deacetylases and their inhibitors in kidney diseases

Histone deacetylases (HDACs) have emerged as key regulators in the pathogenesis of various kidney diseases. This review explores recent advancements in HDAC research, focusing on their role in kidney development and their critical involvement in the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD), acute kidney injury (AKI), autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), and diabetic kidney disease (DKD). It also discusses the therapeutic potential of HDAC inhibitors in treating these conditions. Various HDAC inhibitors have shown promise by targeting specific HDAC isoforms and modulating a range of biological pathways. Their protective effects include modulation of apoptosis, autophagy, inflammation, and fibrosis, underscoring their broad therapeutic potential for kidney diseases. However, further research is essential to improve the selectivity of HDAC inhibitors, minimize toxicity, overcome drug resistance, and enhance their pharmacokinetic properties. This review offers insights to guide future research and prevention strategies for kidney disease management.

Histone Modifications: Potential Therapeutic Targets for Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a microvascular complication arising as a secondary effect of diabetes, with both genetic and environmental factors playing a significant role in its onset and progression. Epigenetics serves as the crucial link between these genetic and environmental influences. Among the various epigenetic mechanisms, histone modification stands out as a key regulatory process associated with the development of many diseases. Histone modifications primarily regulate cellular function by influencing gene expression. Modulating histone modifications, particularly through the regulation of enzymes involved in these processes, holds a promising therapeutic approach for managing diseases like DR. In this review, we explore the regulatory mechanisms of histone modification and its contribution to the pathogenesis of DR.

Lactate and Lactylation in AKI-to-CKD: Epigenetic Regulation and Therapeutic Opportunities

Lactate is not only a byproduct of glycolysis, but is also considered an energy source, gluconeogenic precursor, signalling molecule and protein modifier during the process of cellular metabolism. The discovery of lactylation reveals the multifaceted functions of lactate in cellular metabolism and opens new avenues for lactate-related research. Both lactate and lactylation have been implicated in regulating numerous biological processes, including tumour progression, ischemic-hypoxic injury, neurodevelopment and immune-related inflammation. The kidney plays a crucial role in regulating lactate metabolism, influencing lactate levels while also being regulated by lactate. Previous studies have demonstrated the importance of lactate in the pathogenesis of acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD). This review explores the role of lactate and lactylation in these diseases, comparing the function and metabolic mechanisms of lactate in normal and diseased kidneys from the perspective of lactylation. The key regulatory roles of lactylation in different organs, multiple systems, various pathological states and underlying mechanisms in AKI-to-CKD progression are summarised. Moreover, potential therapeutic targets and future research directions for lactate and lactylation across multiple kidney diseases are identified.

IGF-Binding Protein 7 and Cadmium-Induced Hepatorenal Fibrosis

Key Points

Background

Chronic cadmium exposure can induce the onset and progression of hepatorenal fibrosis; however, its molecular basis is unclear. IGF-binding protein 7 (IGFBP7) is not only a biomarker of AKI but also plays a functional role in promoting kidney injury and inflammation. Abnormal repair of AKI causes kidney fibrosis and CKD. IGFBP7 has also been reported as a more sensitive biomarker for liver fibrosis. However, its role in hepatorenal fibrosis requires further investigation.

Methods

IGFBP7 global and conditional knockout mice were used to determine the role of IGFBP7 in cadmium-induced hepatorenal fibrosis. Then, liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry, truncated mutants, coimmunoprecipitation, and microscale thermophoresis were used to unravel the downstream mechanisms.

Results

IGFBP7 expression was significantly elevated in kidney and liver tissues of mice subjected to chronic cadmium exposure. IGFBP7 deficiency attenuated cadmium-induced hepatorenal dysfunction and fibrosis, whereas restoration of IGFBP7 expression in IGFBP7-deficient mice reproduced hepatorenal fibrosis. Mechanistically, IGFBP7 interacted with α-enolase (ENO1) and inhibited its ubiquitination and degradation. Upregulated ENO1 further promoted glucose metabolic reprogramming and lactate accumulation. Conversely, lactate accumulation enhanced IGFBP7 transcription and expression through histone H3K18 lactylation. Importantly, therapy targeting IGFBP7 significantly ameliorated cadmium-induced hepatorenal fibrosis.

Conclusions

IGFBP7 promoted cadmium-induced hepatorenal fibrosis by enhancing ENO1-driven abnormal glycolysis and lactate accumulation.

AMPK is dispensable for physiological podocyte and glomerular functions but prevents glomerular fibrosis in experimental diabetes

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) has been postulated to be crucial in regulating various renal physiology and pathophysiology processes, including energy metabolism, ion and water transport, inflammation, and hypertrophy. However, the specific roles of AMPK in the podocyte, a cell critical for maintaining glomerular filtration, have not been fully explored using genetic model animals. In this study, we generated mice lacking both AMPK α1 and α2 catalytic subunits in glomerular podocytes (pmut). Our findings revealed that, surprisingly, AMPK is dispensable for normal podocyte function. These knockout mice could live as long as their wild-type littermates without showing any pathological alterations in their glomeruli or glomerular function at two years of age. However, under type 1 diabetic conditions, the diabetic pmut mice exhibited increased lipid and collagen accumulation and an elevated expression of mesenchymal proteins in their glomeruli. They also showed more significant albuminuria compared to control diabetic mice. Under high glucose culture conditions, glomeruli isolated from pmut mice demonstrated a reduced expression of mitochondrial genes (e.g., Ndufv2) and increased leakage of mitochondrial components. Additionally, there was heightened expression of genes associated with nucleotide sensing and pro-inflammatory pathways (including mb21d2, IL-1 beta, and NF-kB). These observations suggest that while AMPK is not necessary for podocyte function in healthy kidneys, it is crucial for preventing glomerular fibrosis resulting from lipotoxicity and inflammation under diabetic conditions.

Lactylation in Glioblastoma: A Novel Epigenetic Modifier Bridging Epigenetic Plasticity and Metabolic Reprogramming

Glioblastoma, the most common and aggressive primary malignant brain tumor, is characterized by a high rate of recurrence, disability, and lethality. Therefore, there is a pressing need to develop more effective prognostic biomarkers and treatment approaches for glioblastoma. Lactylation, an emerging form of protein post-translational modification, has been closely associated with lactate, a metabolite of glycolysis. Since the initial identification of lactylation sites in core histones in 2019, accumulating evidence has shown the critical role that lactylation plays in glioblastoma development, assessment of poor clinical prognosis, and immunosuppression, which provides a fresh angle for investigating the connection between metabolic reprogramming and epigenetic plasticity in glioblastoma cells. The objective of this paper is to present an overview of the metabolic and epigenetic roles of lactylation in the expanding field of glioblastoma research and explore the practical value of developing novel treatment plans combining targeted therapy and immunotherapy.

Deletion of Pyruvate Carboxylase in Tubular Epithelial Cell Promotes Renal Fibrosis by Regulating SQOR/cGAS/STING-Mediated Glycolysis

Renal fibrosis is a common pathway involved in the progression of various chronic kidney diseases to end-stage renal disease. Recent studies show that mitochondrial injury of renal tubular epithelial cells (RTECs) is a crucial pathological foundation for renal fibrosis. However, the underlying regulatory mechanisms remain unclear. Pyruvate carboxylase (PC) is a catalytic enzyme located within the mitochondria that is intricately linked with mitochondrial damage and metabolism. In the present study, the downregulation of PC in various fibrotic animal and human kidney samples is demonstrated. Renal proximal tubule-specific Pcx gene knockout mice (PcxcKO) has significant interstitial fibrosis compared to control mice, with heightened expression of extracellular matrix molecules. This is further demonstrated in a stable PC knock-out RTEC line. Mechanistically, PC deficiency reduces its interaction with sulfide:quinone oxidoreductase (SQOR), increasing the ubiquitination and degradation of SQOR. This leads to mitochondrial morphological and functional disruption, increased mtDNA release, activation of the cGAS-STING pathway, and elevated glycolysis levels, and ultimately, promotes renal fibrosis. This study investigates the molecular mechanisms through which PC deficiency induces mitochondrial injury and metabolic reprogramming in RTECs. This study provides a novel theoretical foundation and potential therapeutic targets for the pathogenesis and treatment of renal fibrosis.

The emerging role of protein L-lactylation in metabolic regulation and cell signalling

L-Lactate has emerged as a crucial metabolic intermediate, moving beyond its traditional view as a mere waste product. The recent discovery of L-lactate-driven protein lactylation as a post-translational modification has unveiled a pathway that highlights the role of lactate in cellular signalling. In this Perspective, we explore the enzymatic and metabolic mechanisms underlying protein lactylation and its impacts on both histone and non-histone proteins in the contexts of physiology and diseases. We discuss growing evidence suggesting that this modification regulates a wide range of cellular functions and is involved in various physiological and pathological processes, such as cell-fate determination, development, cardiovascular diseases, cancer and autoimmune disorders. We propose that protein lactylation acts as a pivotal mechanism, integrating metabolic and signalling pathways to enable cellular adaptation, and highlight its potential as a therapeutic target in various diseases.

PKM2 accelerated the progression of chronic fatigue syndrome via promoting the H4K12la/ NF-κB induced neuroinflammation and mitochondrial damage

This study aims to explore the effects and potential mechanisms of PKM2-mediated neuroinflammation leading to mitochondrial damage and its role in the progression of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Bioinformatics methods were applied to predict and analyze PKM2 and downstream signaling factors. In vivo experiments were conducted with mice divided into four groups after different treatments: control group, model group, Model + PKM2-OE group, and Model + PKM2-KD group. Morris water maze and field tests were used to assess cognitive function, grip strength, and rotation tests to evaluate physical strength. HE and Nissl staining were used to observe cellular conditions in the CA1 region of the hippocampus. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect PKM2 levels in the CA1 region. Western blot was performed to assess protein expression, lactate assay kits measured serum and brain tissue lactate levels, and ELISA detected inflammatory factors in brain tissue. Bioinformatics analysis showed that PKM2 could promote the expression of glycolytic factors, leading to H4K12la histone lactylation modification, which enhances the expression of inflammatory factors such as NF-κB, resulting in mitochondrial damage. Compared to the control group, the cognitive function of the model group significantly declined, while the cognitive function of the Model + PKM2-OE group improved. However, cognitive function worsened in the Model + PKM2-KD group compared to the model group. The physical strength of the control group was normal, and no significant differences were observed in the model, Model + PKM2-OE, and Model + PKM2-KD groups. Cell quantity and arrangement in the control group were normal, while the model group showed fewer and disorganized cells. The Model + PKM2-OE group showed further deterioration compared to the model group, whereas the Model + PKM2-KD group showed improvement. Compared to the control group, the model group had increased expression of PKM2, H4K12la, H4, IL-1β, and TNFα. Compared to the model group, these markers were even higher in the Model + PKM2-OE group, but significantly reduced in the Model + PKM2-KD group. Serum lactate levels increased in the model group compared to the control group, but there was no significant difference between the Model + PKM2-OE and Model + PKM2-KD groups. Brain tissue lactate levels increased in the model group, further elevated in the Model + PKM2-OE group, but decreased in the Model + PKM2-KD group. PKM2 in hippocampal cells enhances glycolysis, lactate accumulation, and H4K12la/NF-κB-mediated neuroinflammation, leading to mitochondrial damage and accelerating the progression of chronic fatigue syndrome.

From morphology to single-cell molecules: high-resolution 3D histology in biomedicine

High-resolution three-dimensional (3D) tissue analysis has emerged as a transformative innovation in the life sciences, providing detailed insights into the spatial organization and molecular composition of biological tissues. This review begins by tracing the historical milestones that have shaped the development of high-resolution 3D histology, highlighting key breakthroughs that have facilitated the advancement of current technologies. We then systematically categorize the various families of high-resolution 3D histology techniques, discussing their core principles, capabilities, and inherent limitations. These 3D histology techniques include microscopy imaging, tomographic approaches, single-cell and spatial omics, computational methods and 3D tissue reconstruction (e.g. 3D cultures and spheroids). Additionally, we explore a wide range of applications for single-cell 3D histology, demonstrating how single-cell and spatial technologies are being utilized in the fields such as oncology, cardiology, neuroscience, immunology, developmental biology and regenerative medicine. Despite the remarkable progress made in recent years, the field still faces significant challenges, including high barriers to entry, issues with data robustness, ambiguous best practices for experimental design, and a lack of standardization across methodologies. This review offers a thorough analysis of these challenges and presents recommendations to surmount them, with the overarching goal of nurturing ongoing innovation and broader integration of cellular 3D tissue analysis in both biology research and clinical practice.

Lgals3 Promotes Calcium Oxalate Crystal Formation and Kidney Injury Through Histone Lactylation-Mediated FGFR4 Activation

The incidence of kidney stones is increasing worldwide. However, the underlying mechanism of the process of kidney stone formation and the kidney damage caused are not well understood. Here, it is observed that Lgals3, a β-galactoside-binding protein, is significantly increased in tissues with calcium oxalate (CaOx) stones, and in both in vivo and in vitro models. Lgals3 expression is positively correlated with the deposition of CaOx crystals. Knockout of Lgals3 markedly reduces the deposition of CaOx crystal and renal fibrosis in vivo. Furthermore, Lgals3 deficiency decrease the glycolytic rate and lactate production during the process of CaOx deposition and inhibited histone lactylation of H3K18la. Mechanistic studies shows that Lgals3 directly interacted with the key glycolysis protein pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2) and promoted its expression by modulating E3 ligase Trim21, preventing the ubiquitination of PKM2. Furthermore, H3K18 lactylation promoted CaOx crystal deposition and kidney injury in vivo and in vitro. Lgals3 deficiency inhibites the transcription, activation, and expression of FGFR4 through inhibition of H3K18la. These findings suggest that Lgals3 may play a key role in CaOx stone formation and kidney injury by interacting with PKM2 and promoting both H3K18la-mediated gene transcription and activation.

Glycerol-3-phosphate contributes to the increase in FGF23 production in chronic kidney disease

Why fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) levels increase markedly in chronic kidney disease (CKD) is unknown. Recently, we found that phosphate stimulates renal production of glycerol-3-phosphate (G-3-P), which circulates to the bone to trigger FGF23 production. To assess the impact of G-3-P on FGF23 production in CKD, we compared the effect of adenine-induced CKD in mice deficient in glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase 1 (Gpd1), an enzyme that synthesizes G-3-P, along with wild-type littermates. We found that an adenine diet causes a similar degree of renal insufficiency across genotypes and that adenine-induced CKD increases blood G-3-P and FGF23 levels in wild-type mice. Furthermore, we found that the increases in both G-3-P and FGF23 are significantly attenuated, but not fully abrogated, in Gpd1-/- compared with Gpd1+/+ mice with CKD. There is no difference in blood phosphate or parathyroid hormone between Gpd1-/- and Gpd1+/+ mice on an adenine diet, but adenine-induced CKD causes greater cortical bone loss in Gpd1-/- mice. In a separate cohort of rats fed an adenine or control diet, we confirmed that CKD causes an increase in blood G-3-P levels. Importantly, an acute phosphate load increases G-3-P production in both CKD and non-CKD rats, with a significant correlation between measured kidney phosphate uptake and blood G-3-P levels. Together, these findings establish a key role for G-3-P in mineral metabolism in CKD, although more work is required to parse the factors that regulate both Gpd1-dependent and Gpd1-independent G-3-P production in this context.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study shows that glycerol-3-phosphate, a glycolytic by-product recently implicated in a kidney-to-bone signaling axis that regulates FGF23 production, increases in mice and rats with CKD. Furthermore, mice deficient in a key enzyme that synthesizes glycerol-3-phosphate have attenuated increases in both glycerol-3-phosphate and FGF23 in CKD, along with enhanced cortical bone loss. These studies identify glycerol-3-phosphate as a novel regulator of FGF23 and mineral metabolism in CKD.

N6-methyladenosine regulates metabolic remodeling in kidney aging through transcriptional regulator GLIS1

BACKGROUND

Age-related kidney impairment, characterized by tubular epithelial cell senescence and renal fibrosis, poses a significant global public health threat. Although N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation is implicated in various pathological processes, its regulatory mechanism in kidney aging remains unclear.

METHODS

An m6A-mRNA epitranscriptomic microarray was performed to identify genes with abnormal m6A modifications in aged human kidney tissues. Histological, immunohistochemical, and immunofluorescent staining, western blot, and RT-qPCR were employed to examine the biological functions of targeted genes and m6A methyltransferases both in vivo and in vitro. RNA immunoprecipitation, chromatin immunoprecipitation, ribosomal immunoprecipitation, and luciferase reporter assays were used to investigate the specific interactions between m6A methyltransferases, targeted genes, and their downstream signals.

RESULTS

Significantly lower m6A modification levels were observed in aged human kidney tissues. GLIS1, identified as a "metabolic remodeling factor," showed significantly reduced protein levels with abnormal m6A modifications. The downregulation of GLIS1 induced cell senescence and renal fibrosis by shifting metabolic remodeling from fatty acid oxidation (FAO) to glycolysis. Additionally, the methylated GLIS1 mRNA was regulated by the abnormal expression of METTL3 and YTHDF1. Silencing METTL3/YTHDF1 weakened the translation of GLIS1 and disrupted the balance between FAO and glycolysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that the m6A modification of GLIS1, activated by METTL3 and reduced in a YTHDF1-dependent manner, leads to kidney aging by regulating the metabolic shift from FAO to glycolysis. This mechanism provides a promising therapeutic target for kidney aging.

Nuciferine inhibits osteoclast formation through suppressing glycolysis metabolic programming and ROS production

Nuciferine (NCF) is a bioactive compound from lotus leaves and has been proven to prevent osteoclastogenesis and ovariectomy-induced osteoporosis by our previous research. However, the underlying mechanism is still unclear. In this research, Raw264.7 cells were induced into osteoclast with or without NCF. CCK-8 and Edu assays were performed to detect the effects of 30 μM NCF on cell viability and proliferation. TRAP staining and bone resorption assays were performed to observe the role of NCF in osteoclastogenesis and bone resorption. RT-PCR and Western blot were performed to detect the effects of NCF on osteoclast-related genes, glycolysis-related genes, and reactive oxygen species (ROS)-related genes. Seahorse assays, lactate concentration and glucose consumption were performed to observe cell metabolism change. DCFH-DA fluorescent probe was used to detect ROS level. In this work, 30 μM NCF could not influence cell viability and cell proliferation. Osteoclast differentiation could be inhibited by 30 μM NCF. Bone resorption assay could also observe that bone resorption ability was successfully inhibited by 30 μM NCF. In seahorse assay, we discovered that NCF could decrease extracellular acid rate and increase oxygen consumption. RT-PCR and Western blot results showed that NCF could decrease the expression of hexokinase2, pyruvate kinase muscle 2, and lactate dehydrogenase A and that NCF could also weaken the concentration of lactate. However, pyruvate kinase muscle 2 activator (GC69716) and lactate addition could promote osteoclastogenesis and bone resorption and promote the expression of c-Fos and nuclear factor of activated T cells c1. Besides, NCF could also inhibit the production of ROS. In conclusion, NCF might inhibit osteoclast formation through inhibiting glycolysis metabolism and ROS production.

Targeting of TAMs: can we be more clever than cancer cells?

АBSTRACT: With increasing incidence and geography, cancer is one of the leading causes of death, reduced quality of life and disability worldwide. Principal progress in the development of new anticancer therapies, in improving the efficiency of immunotherapeutic tools, and in the personification of conventional therapies needs to consider cancer-specific and patient-specific programming of innate immunity. Intratumoral TAMs and their precursors, resident macrophages and monocytes, are principal regulators of tumor progression and therapy resistance. Our review summarizes the accumulated evidence for the subpopulations of TAMs and their increasing number of biomarkers, indicating their predictive value for the clinical parameters of carcinogenesis and therapy resistance, with a focus on solid cancers of non-infectious etiology. We present the state-of-the-art knowledge about the tumor-supporting functions of TAMs at all stages of tumor progression and highlight biomarkers, recently identified by single-cell and spatial analytical methods, that discriminate between tumor-promoting and tumor-inhibiting TAMs, where both subtypes express a combination of prototype M1 and M2 genes. Our review focuses on novel mechanisms involved in the crosstalk among epigenetic, signaling, transcriptional and metabolic pathways in TAMs. Particular attention has been given to the recently identified link between cancer cell metabolism and the epigenetic programming of TAMs by histone lactylation, which can be responsible for the unlimited protumoral programming of TAMs. Finally, we explain how TAMs interfere with currently used anticancer therapeutics and summarize the most advanced data from clinical trials, which we divide into four categories: inhibition of TAM survival and differentiation, inhibition of monocyte/TAM recruitment into tumors, functional reprogramming of TAMs, and genetic enhancement of macrophages.

Lactate metabolism and lactylation in cardiovascular disease: novel mechanisms and therapeutic targets

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is responsible for approximately 30% of annual global mortality rates, yet existing treatments for this condition are considered less than ideal. Despite being previously overlooked, lactate, a byproduct of glycolysis, is now acknowledged for its crucial role in the cellular functions of the cardiovascular system. Recent studies have shown that lactate influences the proliferation, differentiation, and activation of immune cells through its modulation of post-translational protein modifications, thereby affecting the development and prognosis of cardiovascular disease. Consequently, there has been a notable increase in interest towards drug targets targeting lactylation in immune cells, prompting further exploration. In light of the swift advancements in this domain, this review article is dedicated to examining lactylation in cardiovascular disease and potential drug targets for regulating lactylation, with the aim of enhancing comprehension of this intricate field.

Epigenetics of Hypertensive Nephropathy

Hypertensive nephropathy (HN) is a leading cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD), contributing to significant morbidity, mortality, and rising healthcare costs. In this review article, we explore the role of epigenetic mechanisms in HN progression and their potential therapeutic implications. We begin by examining key epigenetic modifications-DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs-observed in kidney disease. Next, we discuss the underlying pathophysiology of HN and highlight current in vitro and in vivo models used to study the condition. Finally, we compare various types of HN-induced renal injury and their associated epigenetic mechanisms with those observed in other kidney injury models, drawing inferences on potential epigenetic therapies for HN. The information gathered in this work indicate that epigenetic mechanisms can drive the progression of HN by regulating key molecular signaling pathways involved in renal damage and fibrosis. The limitations of Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS) inhibitors underscore the need for alternative treatments targeting epigenetic pathways. This review emphasizes the importance of further research into the epigenetic regulation of HN to develop more effective therapies and preventive strategies. Identifying novel epigenetic markers could provide new therapeutic opportunities for managing CKD and reducing the burden of ESRD.

Systematic analysis of lysine lactylation in nucleus pulposus cells

Nucleus pulposus (NP) resides in hypoxic microenvironment and NP cells (NPCs), primarily reply on glycolysis and producing high levels of lactate. Intracellular lactate drives lysine lactylation (Kla) as a newly epigenetic modification. However, the impact of Kla on NPCs remains unknown. Here, single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data suggested an altered balance between glycolysis and aerobic oxidation in intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD). Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis displayed 3510 lactylation sites on 1052 non-histone proteins of NPCs isolated from rat cultured in normoxia and hypoxia. Moreover, there are 18 proteins with 129 Kla sites and 117 Kla sites in 27 proteins exclusively detected in normoxia and hypoxia group, respectively. Bioinformatics analysis displayed that these lactylated proteins are tightly related to ribosome, spliceosome and the VEGFA-VEGFA2 signaling pathway. Together, our study reveals that Kla may play an important role in regulating cellular metabolism of NPCs.

Oxygen Glucose Deprivation-Induced Lactylation of H3K9 Contributes to M1 Polarization and Inflammation of Microglia Through TNF Pathway

BACKGROUND

Hypoxia-induced M1 polarization of microglia and resultant inflammation take part in the damage caused by hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). Histone lactylation, a novel epigenetic modification where lactate is added to lysine residues, may play a role in HIE pathogenesis. This study investigates the role of histone lactylation in hypoxia-induced M1 microglial polarization and inflammation, aiming to provide insights for HIE treatment.

METHODS

In this study, we assessed the effects of hypoxia on microglial polarization using both an HIE animal model and an oxygen-glucose deprivation cell model. Histone lactylation at various lysine residues was detected by Western blotting. Microglial polarization and inflammatory cytokines were analyzed by immunofluorescence, qPCR, and Western blotting. RNA sequencing, ChIP-qPCR, and siRNA were used to elucidate mechanisms of H3K9 lactylation.

RESULTS

H3K9 lactylation increased due to cytoplasmic lactate during M1 polarization. Inhibiting P300 or reducing lactate dehydrogenase A expression decreased H3K9 lactylation, suppressing M1 polarization. Transcriptomic analysis indicated that H3K9 lactylation regulated M1 polarization via the TNF signaling pathway. ChIP-qPCR confirmed H3K9 lactylation enrichment at the TNFα locus, promoting OGD-induced M1 polarization and inflammation.

CONCLUSIONS

H3K9 lactylation promotes M1 polarization and inflammation via the TNF pathway, identifying it as a potential therapeutic target for neonatal HIE.

SMYD2 Promotes Calcium Oxalate-Induced Glycolysis in Renal Tubular Epithelial Cells via PTEN Methylation

Background/Objectives: Damage to renal tubular cells (RTCs) represents a critical pathological manifestation in calcium oxalate (CaOx) stone disease, but the underlying mechanism remains elusive. Energy metabolism reprogramming is a vital influencer of RTC survival, and SMYD2 is a histone methylation transferase that has been extensively implicated in various metabolic disorders. Hence, this research aimed to identify whether SMYD2 induces the reprogramming of energy metabolism in RTCs exposed to CaOx nephrolithiasis. Methods: Kidney samples were obtained from patients who underwent laparoscopic nephrectomy for non-functioning kidneys caused by nephrolithiasis. The glyoxylate-induced CaOx stone mice model was established and treated with AZ505. The SMYD2-knockout HK-2 cell line was constructed. Histological changes were evaluated by HE, VK, Tunel, Masson stainings. The molecular mechanism was explored through co-immunoprecipitation and western blotting. Results: The results found that SMYD2 upregulation led to energy reprogramming to glycolysis in human kidney tissue samples and in mice with CaOx nephrolithiasis. We also identified the substantial involvement of glycolysis in the induction of apoptosis, inflammation, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in HK-2 cells caused by calcium oxalate monohydrate (COM). In vivo and in vitro results demonstrated that SMYD2 inhibition reduces glycolysis, kidney injury, and fibrosis. Mechanistically, SMYD2 was found to promote metabolic reprogramming of RTCs toward glycolysis by activating the AKT/mTOR pathway via methylated PTEN, which mediates CaOx-induced renal injury and fibrosis. Conclusions: Our findings reveal an epigenetic regulatory role of SMYD2 in metabolic reprogramming in CaOx nephrolithiasis and associated kidney injury, suggesting that targeting SMYD2 and glycolysis may represent a potential therapeutic strategy for CaOx-induced kidney injury and fibrosis.

A rising star involved in tumour immunity: Lactylation

In recent years, continuous exploration worldwide has revealed that some metabolites produced during cellular and tissue metabolism can act as signalling molecules to exert different effects on the human body. These metabolites may act as cofactors for proteases or as post-translational modifications linked to proteins. Lactate, a traditional metabolite, is found at high levels in the tumour microenvironment (TME). Many studies have shown that lactate influences tumorigenesis and development via different mechanisms, not only through the metabolic reprogramming of tumours but also through its significant impact on tumour immunity. Previously, tumour cells were reported to use glucose and glutamine to fuel lactate metabolism; however, lactate serves not only as an energy source for tumour cells but also as a precursor substance needed for the post-translational modification of proteins. Recent studies identified a novel form of epigenetic modification, lactate-mediated histone lysine lactylation (Kla) and demonstrated that histone lactylation directly stimulates chromatin after gene transcription; consequently, lactylation has become a popular research topic in recent years. This article focuses on the research progress and application prospects of lactylation in the context of tumour immunity.

Lactylation: A Novel Post-Translational Modification with Clinical Implications in CNS Diseases

Lactate, an important metabolic product, provides energy to neural cells during energy depletion or high demand and acts as a signaling molecule in the central nervous system. Recent studies revealed that lactate-mediated protein lactylation regulates gene transcription and influences cell fate, metabolic processes, inflammation, and immune responses. This review comprehensively examines the regulatory roles and mechanisms of lactylation in neurodevelopment, neuropsychiatric disorders, brain tumors, and cerebrovascular diseases. This analysis indicates that lactylation has multifaceted effects on central nervous system function and pathology, particularly in hypoxia-induced brain damage. Highlighting its potential as a novel therapeutic target, lactylation may play a significant role in treating neurological diseases. By summarizing current findings, this review aims to provide insights and guide future research and clinical strategies for central nervous system disorders.

Spatial metabolomics in tissue injury and regeneration

Tissue homeostasis is intricately linked to cellular metabolism and metabolite exchange within the tissue microenvironment. The orchestration of adaptive cellular responses during injury and repair depends critically upon metabolic adaptation. This adaptation, in turn, shapes cell fate decisions required for the restoration of tissue homeostasis. Understanding the nuances of metabolic processes within the tissue context and comprehending the intricate communication between cells is therefore imperative for unraveling the complexity of tissue homeostasis and the processes of injury and repair. In this review, we focus on mass spectrometry imaging as an advanced platform with the potential to provide such comprehensive insights into the metabolic instruction governing tissue function. Recent advances in this technology allow to decipher the intricate metabolic networks that determine cellular behavior in the context of tissue resilience, injury, and repair. These insights not only advance our fundamental understanding of tissue biology but also hold implications for therapeutic interventions by targeting metabolic pathways critical for maintaining tissue homeostasis.

Lactate: a missing link between metabolism and inflammation in CKD progression?

Persistent enhancement of glycolysis in kidney tubular epithelial cells has been linked to the progression of chronic kidney disease, although the underlying mechanisms are largely unknown. In this issue of Kidney International, Wang et al. report that the glycolytic enzyme 6-phosphofructo-2-kinase/fructose-2,6-bisphosphatase 3 plays a crucial role in kidney fibrosis by enhancing histone H4 lysine 12 lactylation through lactate accumulation. This increases the transcription of nuclear factor-κB-related genes and promotes inflammation and fibrosis. Inhibiting 6-phosphofructo-2-kinase/fructose-2,6-bisphosphatase 3 reduces these effects, indicating therapeutic potential for kidney fibrosis.

Global profiling of protein lactylation in microglia in experimental high-altitude cerebral edema

BACKGROUND

High-altitude cerebral edema (HACE) is considered an end-stage acute mountain sickness (AMS) that typically occurs in people after rapid ascent to 2500 m or more. While hypoxia is a fundamental feature of the pathophysiological mechanism of HACE, emerging evidence suggests that inflammation serves as a key risk factor in the occurrence and development of this disease. However, little is known about the molecular mechanism underlying their crosstalk.

METHODS

A mouse HACE model was established by combination treatment with hypobaric hypoxia exposure and lipopolysaccharides (LPS) stimulation. Lactylated-proteomic analysis of microglia was performed to reveal the global profile of protein lactylation. Molecular modeling was applied to evaluate the 3-D modeling structures. A combination of experimental approaches, including western blotting, quantitative real-time reverse transcriptionpolymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), confocal microscopy and RNA interference, were used to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms.

RESULTS

We found that hypoxia exposure increased the lactate concentration and lactylation in mouse HACE model. Moreover, hypoxia aggravated the microglial neuroinflammatory response in a lactate-dependent manner. Global profiling of protein lactylation has shown that a large quantity of lysine-lactylated proteins are induced by hypoxia and preferentially occur in protein complexes, such as the NuRD complex, ribosome biogenesis complex, spliceosome complex, and DNA replication complex. The molecular modeling data indicated that lactylation could affect the 3-D theoretical structure and increase the solvent accessible surface area of HDAC1, MTA1 and Gatad2b, the core members of the NuRD complex. Further analysis by knockdown or selectively inhibition indicated that the NuRD complex is involved in hypoxia-mediated aggravation of inflammation.

CONCLUSIONS

These results revealed a comprehensive profile of protein lactylation in microglia and suggested that protein lysine lactylation plays an important role in the regulation of protein function and subsequently contributes to the neuroinflammatory response under hypoxic conditions.

The relationship and clinical significance of lactylation modification in digestive system tumors

Lactylation, an emerging post-translational modification, plays a pivotal role in the initiation and progression of digestive system tumors. This study presents a comprehensive review of lactylation in digestive system tumors, underscoring its critical involvement in tumor development and progression. By focusing on metabolic reprogramming, modulation of the tumor microenvironment, and the molecular mechanisms regulating tumor progression, the potential of targeting lactylation as a therapeutic strategy is highlighted. The research reveals that lactylation participates in gene expression regulation and cell signaling by affecting the post-translational states of histones and non-histone proteins, thereby influencing metabolic pathways and immune evasion mechanisms in tumor cells. Furthermore, this study assesses the feasibility of lactylation as a therapeutic target, providing insights for clinical treatment of gastrointestinal cancers. Future research should concentrate on elucidating the mechanisms of lactylation, developing efficient lactylation inhibitors, and validating their therapeutic efficacy in clinical trials, which could transform current cancer treatment and immunotherapy approaches. In summary, this review emphasizes the crucial role of lactylation in tumorigenesis and progression through a detailed analysis of its molecular mechanisms and clinical significance.