Post-translational modifications of p65: state of the art

Dissecting the shared molecular mechanisms underlying polycystic ovary syndrome and schizophrenia etiology: a translational integrative approach

Recent evidence suggests that individuals with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have an increased risk of developing mental health disorders and comorbidities linked to nervous system dysfunction. Interestingly, patients with schizophrenia (SCZ) often exhibit PCOS symptoms, indicating a possible connection between the two conditions. However, the underlying molecular links between these diseases remain poorly understood. We employed a comprehensive in-silico approach, utilizing publicly available datasets to investigate shared biomarkers candidates and key regulators involved in the development of PCOS and SCZ. We retrieved the datasets from the NCBI GEO database and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified for each dataset. Common DEGs (cDEGs) were determined, and transcription factors (TFs) and miRNA targeting cDEGs were examined using the mirDIP portal and TRRUST database, respectively. We also assessed the TF-miRNA interactions by TransmiR database and constructed a regulatory network including TFs-microRNAs-cDEGs. Our analysis identified a total of 15 cDEGs that are regulated by 15 TFs and 8 mRNAs. Among our findings, we prioritized RELA as a potential TF regulator for both diseases, demonstrating synergistic interaction with four cDEGs (EGR1, CXCL8, IL1RN, IL1B) and seven microRNAs (hsa-miR-580, hsa-miR-5695, hsa-miR-936, hsa-miR-3675, hsa-miR-634, hsa-miR-603, hsa-miR-222) that target these genes. Our data highlights potential common biomarkers for PCOS and SCZ, presenting a novel regulatory network that elucidates the molecular mechanisms underlying both conditions. This emphasizes the importance of further research to explore new translational approaches, which may ultimately lead to improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for affected individuals.

The role of Bcl‑2 in controlling the transition between autophagy and apoptosis (Review)

The Bcl‑2 protein family serves a key role in maintaining cellular homeostasis by regulating the balance between autophagy and apoptosis. The present review aimed to summarize interactions of Bcl‑2 with key proteins, including Beclin 1, Bax and Bcl‑2 homologous antagonist/killer, as well as its influence on cellular processes such as mitophagy, nutrient sensing and endoplasmic reticulum stress response. The impact of post‑translational modifications of Bcl‑2, including phosphorylation, ubiquitination and sumoylation, is discussed with respect to their regulatory roles under stress. In pathological states, Bcl‑2 upregulation in cancer suppresses apoptosis and autophagy, thereby facilitating tumor survival and resistance to chemotherapy. Conversely, in neurodegenerative diseases, impaired autophagy and increased apoptosis contribute to neuronal loss. Therapeutic strategies targeting Bcl‑2 (for example inhibitors such as venetoclax, navitoclax, obatoclax and combination therapies involving autophagy modulators) were evaluated for their potential efficacy. There is lack of understanding of tissue‑specific functions of Bcl‑2 and its interactions with non‑coding RNAs. Future research should prioritize these areas and leverage advanced single‑cell technologies to elucidate the real‑time dynamics of Bcl‑2 in cell processes. The present review highlights the key role of Bcl‑2 in cell fate determination and highlights its potential as a therapeutic target, offering insight for the development of innovative treatments for cancer, neurodegenerative disorder and age‑related diseases.

Mitochondrial Antiviral Signaling Protein Activation by Retinoic Acid-Inducible Gene I Agonist Triggers Potent Antiviral Defense in Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Without Compromising Mitochondrial Function

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) represent a promising therapeutic approach in viral infection management. However, their interaction with viruses remains poorly understood. MSCs can support antiviral immune responses and act as viral reservoirs, potentially compromising their therapeutic potential. Innate immune system recognition of viral pathogens involves pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), including RIG-I-like receptors (RLRs), which activate mitochondrial antiviral signaling protein (MAVS). MAVS triggers antiviral pathways like IRF3 and NF-κB, leading to interferon (IFN) production and pro-inflammatory responses. This study explores the antiviral response in umbilical cord-derived MSCs (UC-MSCs) through targeted stimulation with influenza A virus-derived 5'triphosphate-RNA (3p-hpRNA), a RIG-I agonist. By investigating MAVS activation, we provide mechanistic insights into the immune response at the molecular level. Our findings reveal that 3p-hpRNA stimulation triggers immune activation of the IRF3 and NF-κB pathways through MAVS. Subsequently, this leads to the induction of type I and III IFNs, IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs), and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Critically, this immune activation occurs without compromising mitochondrial integrity. UC-MSCs retain their capacity for mitochondrial transfer to recipient cells. These results highlight the adaptability of UC-MSCs, offering a nuanced understanding of immune responses balancing activation with metabolic integrity. Finally, our research provides mechanistic evidence for MSC-based interventions against viral infections.

Comprehensive wound healing using ETN@Fe7S8 complex by positively regulating multiple programmed phases

Wound healing requires coordinated progression through multiple programmed phases including hemostasis, infection control, inflammatory resolution, proliferation, and tissue remodeling. Many nanomaterials have shown great potential to promote wound healing, however, most of them only address partial aspects of these processes, making a recovery hard with adequate effects. In this study, we prepared a complex of nano-iron sulfide integrated with erythrocyte-templated nanozyme (ETN) (ETN@Fe7S8) for comprehensive treatment of wounds. Firstly, ETN served as a mediator to confine iron sulfide to form Fe7S8 nanocomposite in a solvothermal reaction. Secondly, the ETN@Fe7S8 demonstrated bactericidal effects against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) by releasing ferrous iron and polysulfide to induce ferroptosis-like cell death. Thirdly, ferrous iron along with polysulfide exerted anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway, while the polysulfide also contributed to angiogenesis by promoting the activation of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), initiated phosphorylation-mediated activation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, a master regulatory cascade governing endothelial cell survival, migration, and angiogenesis. When employed for wound, ETN@Fe7S8 showed the ability to prevent infection, reduce inflammation, promote angiogenesis, enhance cell proliferation, and remodel keratinocytes. Along with the hemostatic effect, ETN@Fe7S8 thus performed comprehensive effects for wound healing in the whole recovery stages. Therefore, our findings provide a multifunctional candidate of ETN and nano-iron sulfide complex which is capable of regulating and promoting wound healing.

Natural saponins and macrophage polarization: Mechanistic insights and therapeutic perspectives in disease management

Macrophage polarization plays a pivotal role in immune homeostasis and disease progression across inflammatory, neoplastic, and metabolic disorders. Saponins, which are natural compounds with steroidal/triterpenoid structures, demonstrate therapeutic potential through immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor activities. This study aims to highlight the potential of key saponins-such as ginsenosides, astragaloside IV, dioscin, platycodin D, pulsatilla saponins, and panax notoginseng saponins-in modulating macrophage polarization and enhancing conventional therapies, particularly in oncology. We conducted structured searches in PubMed, Google Scholar, and SciFinder (2013-2024) using controlled vocabulary, including "saponins," "macrophage polarization," and "therapeutic effects." Our findings demonstrate that saponins significantly modulate immune responses and improve treatment efficacy. However, clinical translation is hindered by challenges such as poor bioavailability and safety concerns, which limit systemic exposure and therapeutic utility. To overcome these barriers, innovative delivery strategies, including nanoemulsions and engineered exosomes, are essential for enhancing pharmacokinetics and therapeutic index. Future research should prioritize elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying saponin-mediated macrophage polarization, identifying novel therapeutic targets, and optimizing drug formulations. Addressing these challenges will enable the restoration of immune balance and more effective management of diverse diseases.

C1QBP Modulates DNA Damage Response and Radiosensitivity in Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Regulating NF-κB Activity

C1QBP (Complement Component 1 Q Subcomponent-Binding Protein) plays a critical role in maintaining cellular metabolism, but its function in radiation-induced damage remains unclear. In this study, we generated C1QBP-deficient Huh-7 hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells using CRISPR/Cas9 technology and observed that C1QBP deficiency significantly enhanced radiation-induced damage, as indicated by reduced cell proliferation, impaired colony formation, and increased γ-H2AX foci, a marker of DNA double-strand breaks. Additionally, C1QBP deficiency resulted in elevated phosphorylation of key DNA damage response (DDR) molecules, ATM and CHK2, and caused pronounced S phase cell cycle arrest. Mechanistic investigations revealed that C1QBP modulates NF-κB nuclear activity via the AMPK signaling pathway. The loss of C1QBP reduced NF-κB nuclear translocation, further exacerbating radiation-induced damage. Reintroducing C1QBP alleviated DNA damage, enhanced cell proliferation, and improved survival following radiation exposure. These findings highlight the critical role of C1QBP in modulating HCC cells radiosensitivity and underscore its potential as a therapeutic target to enhance radiotherapy outcomes.

Molecular Drivers of RNA Phase Separation

RNA molecules are essential in orchestrating the assembly of biomolecular condensates and membraneless compartments in cells. Many condensates form via the association of RNA with proteins containing specific RNA binding motifs. However, recent reports indicate that low-complexity RNA sequences can self-assemble into condensate phases without protein assistance. Divalent cations significantly influence the thermodynamics and dynamics of RNA condensates, which exhibit base-specific lower-critical solution temperatures (LCST). The precise molecular origins of these temperatures remain elusive. In this study, we employ atomistic molecular simulations to elucidate the molecular driving forces governing the temperature-dependent phase behavior of RNA, providing new insights into the origins of LCST. Using RNA tetranucleotides and their chemically modified analogs, we map RNA condensates' equilibrium thermodynamic profiles and structural ensembles across various temperatures and ionic conditions. Our findings reveal that magnesium ions promote LCST behavior by inducing local order-disorder transitions within RNA structures. Consistent with experimental observations, we demonstrate that the thermal stability of RNA condensates follows the Poly(G) > Poly(A) > Poly(C) > Poly(U) order shaped by the interplay of base-stacking and hydrogen bonding interactions. Furthermore, our simulations show that ionic conditions and post-translational modifications can fine-tune RNA self-assembly and modulate condensate physical properties.

Divergent Processing of Cell Stress Signals as the Basis of Cancer Progression: Licensing NFκB on Chromatin

Inflammation is activated by diverse triggers that induce the expression of cytokines and adhesion molecules, which permit a succession of molecules and cells to deliver stimuli and functions that help the immune system clear the primary cause of tissue damage, whether this is an infection, a tumor, or a trauma. During inflammation, short-term changes in the expression and secretion of strong mediators of inflammation occur, while long-term changes occur to specific groups of cells. Long-term changes include cellular transdifferentiation for some types of cells that need to regenerate damaged tissue, as well as death for specific immune cells that can be detrimental to tissue integrity if they remain active beyond the boundaries of essential function. The transcriptional regulator NFκB enables some of the fundamental gene expression changes during inflammation, as well as during tissue development. During recurrence of malignant disease, cell stress-induced alterations enable the growth of cancer cell clones that are substantially resistant to therapeutic intervention and to the immune system. A number of those alterations occur due to significant defects in feedback signal cascades that control the activity of NFκB. Specifically, cell stress contributes to feedback defects as it overrides modules that otherwise control inflammation to protect host tissue. NFκB is involved in both the suppression and promotion of cancer, and the key distinctive feature that determines its net effect remains unclear. This paper aims to provide a clear answer to at least one aspect of this question, namely the mechanism that enables a divergent response of cancer cells to critical inflammatory stimuli and to cell stress in general.